Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 Japan's Nippon Steel to sue U.S. gov't over decision to block acquisition: media Xinhua) 16:14, January 04, 2025 TOKYO, Jan. 4 (Xinhua) -- Japan's Nippon Steel Corp. is set to file a lawsuit in response to United States President Joe Biden's decision to block its takeover of U.S. Steel Corp., local media reported Saturday. Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel are expected to claim in court that Biden did not present sufficient evidence to prove the proposed acquisition poses a threat to U.S. national security, and that his decision violates due process under the U.S. Constitution and the law governing the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, Kyodo News reported, citing sources close to the matter. Biden said Friday that he has decided to block the 14.1 billion U.S. dollars sale of U.S. Steel to the Japanese steel giant, citing risks to national security, while urging the two steelmakers to "fully and permanently" abandon their plan. In a joint statement on Friday, the two firms said the U.S. authorities' review of the international buyout project was "manipulated to advance President Biden's political agenda" and that they will "take all appropriate action to protect our legal rights." Meanwhile, Japan's Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry Yoji Muto said, "It is incomprehensible and regrettable that this kind of decision has been made on the grounds of concerns over national security." The Japanese government regarded Nippon Steel's plan to acquire U.S. Steel as a deal "that would benefit both countries" as Japanese investment in the U.S. has been on track to continue increasing, Muto said in a statement. In late 2023, Nippon Steel announced plans to acquire U.S. Steel, which is headquartered in Pennsylvania, one of the key swing states in the 2024 presidential election. Before Biden withdrew from the race, both he and his then-opponent, Donald Trump, had expressed opposition to the acquisition. Nippon Steel is the world's fourth-largest steelmaker by volume, while U.S. Steel ranks 24th, according to a 2023 tally by the World Steel Association. (Web editor: Zhao Tong, Zhong Wenxing) Kim Burney charges her Tesla last winter in Ann Arbor, Mich., when a subzero cold snap spread across the nation. EV advocacy group Recurrent analyzed real-world driving data from over 10,000 vehicles. It found that EV models that did not utilize a heat pump saw their batteries reduced by an average of 28%, compared with an average of 13% for cars with heat pumps. Carlos Osorio/Associated Press Andrew Garberson has a message for drivers in cold-climate states like Minnesota: Yes, you can still drive an electric car. Public scrutiny over how well EVs perform in cold weather has grown in recent years after high-profile incidents like one in Chicago last winter when several Tesla drivers found themselves stuck in line for hours, waiting for their turn at public charging stations as temperatures dipped below zero. Many drivers reported that the cold had not only sapped their batteries but made charging them a major hassle. Cold weather temporarily reduces the available energy of EV batteries and slows their ability to charge though theyll function normally again in warmer conditions. Heating the cars cabin during winter also requires energy from the battery, meaning less fuel for travel. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Research has found that freezing temperatures can reduce the average driving range of an electric vehicle from 25% to 41%, depending on the circumstances. A car that can drive 100 miles on a single charge when its 70 degrees Fahrenheit outside may be capable of going only 59 to 75 miles in freezing temperatures. A bit overhyped But Garberson, who lives in Iowa and works as the head of growth and research for the EV advocacy group Recurrent, said incidents like the one in Chicago have been overblown in the media and that drivers shouldnt avoid buying an electric car just because they live somewhere with cold winters. I drive an EV every day and my winter is almost as harsh as yours (in Minnesota), he said. The anxiety around winter and reduced range, while its not inaccurate, is just a bit overhyped. EVs arent the only cars to suffer performance issues under frigid conditions. Conventional gasoline cars lose between 10% and 20% of their driving range when the temperature drops from 77 degrees Fahrenheit to 20 degrees, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Advertisement Article continues below this ad If drivers are properly prepared, most EVs should hold up fine in cold situations, Garberson said. Drivers can take certain steps to ensure their commute goes as smoothly as possible, he added, such as preconditioning their batteries before charging them a setting on most modern EV models that warms the battery to an optimal temperature, allowing for faster charging. Recurrent also reviews EV models every year to see how much cold weather affects their range, which could help shoppers choose which model would work best for their needs, Garberson said. This year, the organization looked at 13 popular models, analyzing real-world driving data from over 10,000 vehicles. It found that those models lost 21% of their range on average when temperatures drop to 32 degrees Fahrenheit. But the loss varied drastically by model and year. Heat pumps are key The Tesla Model X had the smallest range loss, with an 11% decrease, while the Volkswagen ID.4 had the largest at 37%. The biggest factor, Garberson said, was whether the vehicle had a heat pump, which is more efficient than conventional heating systems and therefore reduces overall power use. Studies show that the power needed to heat the cars cabin is a big reason for range loss. The EV models that did not utilize a heat pump, including the ID.4, saw their batteries reduced by an average of 28%, compared with an average of 13% for cars with heat pumps, Recurrents analysis found. Overall, heat pumps added roughly 10% extra range to cars during freezing conditions, the report said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Garberson said cars built in 2020 or later are more likely to have heat pumps installed than older models. Many popular models now have them or will soon have them, he added, noting that Ford added heat pumps to its 2024 F-150 Lightning and is adding them to its Mustang Mach-E in 2025. A lot of the (car companies) have added heat pumps because theyve realized how important it is for people in northern climates, Gaberson said. So thats my No. 1 piece of advice, is just do a little bit of research about the technology in the car because it can make a 10 to 15 percent difference in overall range. Ingrid Malmgren didnt know her Tesla Model Y, which she bought in November 2022, had a heat pump when she decided to take her family on a four-hour road trip from her Vermont home to Quebec City, Canada, last February. The day they left, she said, the high was 7 degrees Fahrenheit. Im not gonna lie, I was nervous about it, said Malmgren, who works as the senior policy director for Plug In America, another EV advocacy organization. But it was a complete non-issue. We charged once along the way. Malmgren said her experience is a common one for first-time EV buyers. A recent Plug In America survey of more than 3,000 EV owners found that 70% of the respondents worried about battery range before buying an electric car. The survey, however, also found that only 35% remained concerned after owning an EV. Advertisement Article continues below this ad What weve found with our Plug In America survey is that a lot of people have concerns about cold weather operation of electric vehicles, she said. But once they get in an electric vehicle, once they start driving an electric vehicle consistently, they find that these concerns go away. The vast majority of the EV owners who remain concerned about range own EVs built before 2020 and live in rural areas, Malmgren added, where charging infrastructure is scarcer and drivers typically travel longer distances. The survey also ranked owner satisfaction for different EV models, including for the cars battery range. Out of the 14 different EV models included, Rivans R1T truck received the highest satisfaction rating for range performance from the survey respondents. Teslas Model Y sedan received the second-highest rating. Charging speed also a factor Charging speed may be another factor prospective EV buyers want to consider. Garberson said newer models typically can charge faster than older models. His 2021 Hyundai Kona can charge in 30 to 40 minutes, he said, while his wife, who drives a 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5, can charge her car in 12 to 14 minutes. Some used EVs that were built a decade or more ago, while cheaper, may take even longer to charge or require multiple charges a day, he added. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The most important thing to consider is your driving habits, Garberson said, adding that most drivers wont even notice when their EV loses range during cold weather. Tens of thousands of homes and businesses in Ireland are without water and electricity amid a bitter cold snap on the island. The severe winter weather has led to the closure of some schools and some public transport restrictions as well as the cancellation of several healthcare services. There are treacherous road conditions across the Republic of Ireland, with broad sections of the island experiencing below-zero temperatures. There are currently Status Yellow Countrywide warnings for Low Temperature/Ice/Snow-Ice. Please stay updated by checking the warnings website and local advice.https://t.co/3041XHjphi pic.twitter.com/daZq5gXaBL Met Eireann (@MetEireann) January 6, 2025 The Irish Electricity Supply Board (ESB) said 41,000 homes and businesses remained without power on Monday morning, and warned it may take days to restore supply to all customers. By 5.15pm, around 17,000 homes and businesses remained without power, mostly in Kerry, Limerick and Tipperary. Irish water authority Uisce Eireann said a similar number of people were without access to water after heavy snow in the south-west region. It said it would be working with the ESB to prioritise the restoration of power at water treatment plants and pumping stations, in the hope that services could be restored by Monday lunchtime. ESB Networks continues to restore electricity supply to the 59,000 homes, businesses and farms currently impacted. Thank you for your patience. Press Release: https://t.co/JiwLxThiBh pic.twitter.com/v0iXojkaAg ESB Networks (@ESBNetworks) January 5, 2025 However, both agencies said the snow and other treacherous road conditions are creating access difficulties for crews. The Health Service Executive has cancelled clinical and non-urgent outpatient appointments in the worst-affected areas, along with breast screening services in the south-west. The Defence Forces deployed personnel on 18 vehicles to help transport essential healthcare workers and patients, while two helicopters were also sent to assist the ESB in line inspection and repairs. Thank you to the crews working across the country to assist communities, homes & businesses with electricity & water supplies after the snow & to grit roads & maintain safety during the very cold weather. Lets all look out for neighbours & those particularly vulnerable #sneachta Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) January 6, 2025 The poor weather conditions also resulted in school closure announcements, particularly across counties Carlow and Kilkenny as well as Limerick, Kerry, Tipperary and Cork. In Tralee, Co Kerry, the roof of a sports complex collapsed under the weight of heavy snow. Meanwhile, Bus Eireann informed customers that a range of routes in the south of the country have been halted. Irish premier Simon Harris thanked crews working to help others and urged people to check in on their neighbours and the vulnerable. While there had been some thawing of weekend snow on Monday morning, the bitterly cold conditions are expected to continue into the week with overnight temperatures dropping to a bitterly cold minus 8C in parts of the south in the coming days. A man clears snow from the pathway in the village of Ballylynan in County Laois (Niall Carson/PA) The cold arctic air is also predicted to bring further snow showers in some regions. National weather agency Met Eireann issued updated Status Yellow low temperature and ice warnings for the entire country on Monday morning, predicting very cold nights with widespread frost and ice. Temperatures will struggle to get above freezing during the day, the forecaster said, meaning there will be travel disruption amid icy patches and other hazardous travelling conditions. The Status Yellow warning for low temperatures and ice is in place for the entire country until the end of Thursday. The meteorologists also announced a separate Yellow level snow and ice warning for the Republic for Ireland, in place between midday on Monday and noon on Tuesday. There are currently Status Yellow Countrywide warnings for Low Temperature/Ice/Snow-Ice. Please stay updated by checking the warnings website and local advice.https://t.co/3041XHjphi pic.twitter.com/daZq5gXaBL Met Eireann (@MetEireann) January 6, 2025 Forecasters believe there may be a need for Orange level warnings for some regions at points throughout the week. The UK Met Office, which issues warnings for Northern Ireland, said the region will see icy stretches developing during the early hours of Monday, bringing some disruption, especially to travel. A Yellow warning for ice across Northern Ireland was in place until 11am. Luke Littler achieved his destiny by winning the World Championship after bulldozing his way past Michael van Gerwen on Friday. The 17-year-old beat Van Gerwen 7-3 in a one-sided final to become the youngest world champion ever. Here, the PA news agency takes a look at what is next for Littler. When does he turn 18? Luke Littler has already achieved plenty before turning 18 (Zac Goodwin/PA) It seems difficult to believe given his exploits over the last 13 months that Littler is still not an adult. But his 18th birthday is on the horizon as he comes of age on January 21. That will open up a whole new world of possibilities to him which could test his focus. How much money has he won? Littler has already won more prize money than any 17-year-old would ever need. His incredible performances since bursting on to the stage has seen him rack up an eye-watering 1.18million from ranking events and another 395,000 from international tournaments. That will be completely dwarfed by his earnings away from the oche as his commercial partnerships with high-profile brands such as boohooMAN and Xbox will be extremely lucrative. When does he play next? Littler will be able to have a couple of weeks of celebration and relaxation before he next returns to the oche. He is set to play in the Bahrain Masters on January 16 and 17, returning to the tournament where he won his first title in 2024. He will be announced as the world champion for the first time and with that comes a different type of pressure. When does he begin his Premier League campaign? Littler was handed a wild card into last years Premier League, which he went on to win in spectacular style, throwing a nine-dart finish in the final against Luke Humphries. He has qualified outright for the 2025 tournament due to his world ranking and will be there on the opening night in Belfast on February 6. Can Littler surpass Taylors world title record? Phil Taylor won the world title 16 times (PA Archive/PA) Before Littler arrived on the scene the prospect of anyone ever beating Phil Taylors record of 16 world titles seemed frankly ludicrous. But, if anyone can do it, it will be Littler. He has time on his side and certainly has the talent and desire. But the overall standard is much higher than Taylors day, highlighted by the fact there have been seven different winners in the last eight years. Weather warnings remain in force across much of the UK on Monday morning as commuters are urged to brace for snow showers, ice and rain. More travel disruption is likely due to the adverse conditions, including flooding from heavy rain and thawing snow, the Met Office said, with more than 60 flood warnings and 260 flood alerts issued. It comes after most of the UK saw heavy snow or icy rainfall over the weekend. Major airports closed their runways for several hours due to heavy snow, while there were stranded vehicles and collisions which blocked key roads across northern England. Yellow weather warning UPDATED Rain across southern parts of Wales and central England NOW 0800 Latest info https://t.co/QwDLMfS950 Stay #WeatherAware pic.twitter.com/g3fFJ4gJCf Met Office (@metoffice) January 5, 2025 A yellow rain warning for southern England from Cornwall across to Kent will last until 9am on Monday, while a separate rain warning covering much of Wales, the Midlands and parts of Greater Manchester and Yorkshire is in force until 8am. A yellow warning for snow and ice covering most of northern England and Wales is in place until midday on Monday, while a yellow ice warning covering large parts of Northern Ireland expires at 11am. The north and west of Scotland are covered by a yellow warning for snow and ice until 11am on Monday, with another for snow and ice in central and eastern parts of the country in place until midday. More snow is forecast to fall over large parts of the UK on Monday (Dave Higgens/PA) A further yellow snow warning covering part of the Scottish Lowlands including Edinburgh is in place until midday. An amber weather warning for snow which covered parts of Lancashire, Cumbria and the Lake District expired at 6am on Monday. The Environment Agency had issued 65 flood warnings, meaning flooding is expected, and 262 flood alerts, meaning flooding is possible, across England as of 6am on Monday. Heavy rain will fall on already saturated ground across southern England (Jonathan Brady/PA) It said a combination of melting snow and rain could lead to significant river flooding in areas of Lancashire and Warwickshire on Monday, and it advised people to stay away from swollen rivers and to not drive through flood water. Warwickshire Police said early on Monday that a stretch of the A46 was shut in both directions due to flooding. The force said in a statement: The northbound section has been shut at Sherbourne and Longbridge, while the southbound section has been shut from Stanks to prevent traffic entering. Surrey Police said the M25 is closed anti-clockwise between Junction 10 (A3) and Junction 8 (Reigate) with a temporary diversion in place following a single-vehicle collision. The force said a lorry had collided with the central reservation just before midnight, with diversions expected to be in place until Monday evening. South Wales Police warned the A48 was closed from the Llanedeyrn roundabout due to a serious road traffic collision, with eastbound traffic down to one lane. Natural Resources Wales had four flood warnings and 29 flood alerts in place. Cold air will return and remain across the whole country from Monday onwards after a brief spell of milder conditions in southern areas, the Met Office said. Deputy chief forecaster Mike Silverstone said: The low pressure that brought the snow and heavy rain in the south will move out to the east by Monday. This will allow a cold northerly flow to become established again for much of next week. An icy start across much of the north and west of the UK Monday morning, with further rain, sleet and snow in places Cloudy elsewhere, with outbreaks of rain. Surface water flooding may lead to difficult travelling conditions pic.twitter.com/FJo6AeUU5h Met Office (@metoffice) January 5, 2025 This will bring further sleet, snow and hail showers to northern Scotland in particular, but possibly to some other areas, especially near western coasts, with a fair amount of dry and bright weather elsewhere. Temperatures will remain below average, with widespread frost and the threat of ice at times. Some areas, especially in the north, may struggle to get above freezing for several days. Further weather warnings could be issued with the potential for some snow to fall in southern and central England and Wales around the middle of the week, Mr Silverstone said. Zoe Saldana has won her first Golden Globe Award for her role in Emilia Perez, beating her co-star Selena Gomez and first-time nominee Ariana Grande to the gong. The US actress secured the best performance by a female actor in a supporting role in any motion picture for the Jacques Audiard-directed film about a Mexican drug lord who changes gender. My heart is full of gratitude, said Saldana, who plays a lawyer offered a way out of her corrupt firm by cartel leader Manitas (Karla Sofia Gascon) in the film. This is the first time for me and I am just so blessed. The award for Best Supporting Female Actor Motion Picture goes to Zoe Saldana for Emilia Perez! Congratulations! #GoldenGlobes pic.twitter.com/iMAZKgbwK0 Golden Globes (@goldenglobes) January 6, 2025 Saldana said she is in awe of her fellow nominees whom she described as magic, which included British star Felicity Jones for her role in The Brutalist, Isabella Rossellini for Conclave, Margaret Qualley for The Substance and Wicked star Grande. The film also won best motion picture non-English language which saw director Audiard take to the stage with a French translator saying if there were more sisters in the world maybe the world would be a better place. In these troubled times I hope Emilia Perez will be a beacon of light, he said. I hope to offer a comforting hug to those who are worried I urge them to keep they heads held high and hope for a better few days ahead. Meanwhile, Succession star Kieran Culkin secured his second Golden Globe for his role in A Real Pain, beating the likes of Denzel Washington for Gladiator II and Guy Pearce for The Brutalist. In a humorous speech, he joked the Golden Globes was the best date night that my wife and I ever have and that the award belonged to his fantastic director Jesse Eisenberg who wrote an incredible script. The two star as mismatched cousins who tour Poland in honour of their grandmother. Congratulations to Kieran Culkin because his role in A Real Pain just won him the award for Best Supporting Male Actor Motion Picture! #GoldenGlobes pic.twitter.com/F6sh5E8oGs Golden Globes (@goldenglobes) January 6, 2025 Meanwhile, Jodie Foster scored her fourth Golden Globe win for her role in True Detective: Night Country, beating Kate Winslet for The Regime and Cate Blanchett for Disclaimer in the best female actor in a limited series, anthology series or a motion picture made for television category. The greatest thing about being this age and being in this time is having a community especially you Sofia (Vergara), she said of her fellow nominee. The annual ceremony, considered a bellwether for the awards season, saw comedian and actress Nikki Glaser become the first woman to solo host the show as she opened with a monologue taking aim at Hollywood stars including Timothee Chalamet, who was sitting next to his girlfriend Kylie Jenner. The ceremony also saw British star Sir Elton John in the audience. Last year, the Golden Globes proved a successful night for Oppenheimer, which scored five major awards during the ceremony. British film-maker Sir Christopher Nolan was named best director for the first time after six nominations, while Irish actor Cillian Murphy took home best actor in a drama for his work as the father of the atomic bomb. Carlos Osorio/Toronto Star via Getty Andrew Pyper in 2013 Andrew Pyper, the Canadian author behind thrillers like Lost Girls and The Demonologist, has died, PEOPLE can confirm. He was 56. The bestselling novelist died of cancer complications on Friday, Jan. 3. His final moments were spent peacefully at home with his wife of over 20 years, Heidi, and his children, Maude and Ford, according to his official death notice. Andrew was not done living, writing, raising his children or loving his wife but accepted his illness with tremendous courage and grace, the obituary reads. Putnam Books Daphne Durham the executive editor who edited two of Pypers final books, 2024s William and upcoming Exiles, both penned under pseudonym Mason Coile described the late author as an inventive, surprising, and profoundly collaborative writer, who clearly loved telling stories, in a statement shared with PEOPLE. Everyone loved working with [Andrew] because he was such a pro, Durham said, but he was also a delightful, warm, funny person. Colin McPherson/Corbis via Getty Andrew Pyper in 2004 The author's agent, Kirby Kim, echoed Durhams sentiment, telling PEOPLE that Pyper had the rare ability to be able to both scare the lights out of you and move you emotionally. And, even as his health worsened, the late novelist was of good nature, laughed easily and made you laugh, Kim noted. Related: Terrifying Literary Horror Novels to Sink Your Fangs Into (Exclusive) Pyper was born in Stratford, Ontario, Canada in 1968, and, according to his obituary, had a passion for writing even asa child. The [die] was cast at a young age while Andrews classmates read comics, Andrew carried a briefcase full of New Yorker magazines and Graham Greene novels, earning him the nickname the Professor in grade school, the obituary reads. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. The Lost Girls author earned his bachelors degree from Montreals McGill University and later, graduated from the University of Toronto with a law degree. He never practiced law, however, instead taking a leap of faith and pursued his love of writing, per his obituary. On his almost-career in law, Pyper previously told the Star in that he couldnt imagine spending my life doing that, so I quit before I began. He went on to publish 14 novels, including The Only Child, The Damned and The Homecoming, which is reportedly being developed into a series or film, according to the authors official website. Throughout his career, the author also garnered prestigious accolades like the Arthur Ellis Award and the International Thriller Writers Award. Vince Talotta/Toronto Star via Getty Andrew Pyper in 2008 But Pypers proudest moments can be traced back to his personal life, according to his obituary, which reads, If you were to ask Andrew would tell you that his greatest accomplishments were his roles of husband and father. Related: PEOPLE's Best Books of September 2024: Sally Rooneys Intermezzo and Memoirs from Kenny G, Connie Chung and Hillary Clinton "Nothing gave Andrew more pleasure or pride than watching his children grow and thrive, the obituary reads. He enjoyed attending their games, tournaments, performances and graduations. Above all, he cherished time spent with family movie nights, sharing meals, holidays, he even built a cottage with no experience (or his own tools), with the goal of creating time and place to be together." "Maude and Ford were everything to him. Read the original article on People WASHINGTON President Joe Biden on Monday took sweeping action to permanently ban offshore oil and gas drilling off the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, protecting more than 625 million federal acres from future leasing. But President-elect Donald Trump vowed he will work to reverse the ban, calling Biden's 11th-hour move "ridiculous" and promising to "unban it immediately." Biden, two weeks before his term ends, issued two presidential memoranda under the 1953 Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to prohibit offshore drilling off the entire U.S. Atlantic coast, the eastern Gulf of Mexico, the Pacific coast in the continental U.S., and portions of the Northern Bering Sea in Alaska. "My decision reflects what coastal communities, businesses, and beachgoers have known for a long time: that drilling off these coasts could cause irreversible damage to places we hold dear and is unnecessary to meet our nations energy needs," Biden said in a statement. "It is not worth the risks." Biden pointed to a "climate crisis" threatening communities and the nation's transition to a "clean energy economy," adding that "now is the time to protect these coasts for our children and grandchildren." 2024 was the hottest year on record, which scientists attribute to the burning of fossil fuels. A person fishes with offshore oil and gas platform Esther in the distance on January 5, 2025 in Seal Beach, California. President Joe Biden has permanently banned future offshore oil and gas drilling in over 625 million acres of federal waters. The ban does not affect areas where oil and gas development is currently underway, nor are there immediate plans for major drilling projects in the affected areas. Biden is set to discuss the move Tuesday during a visit to California, which has had a moratorium on issuing new oil and natural gas leases in its state waters since 1969 and hasn't had an oil lease approved off its coast since 1984. Trump threatens Biden's conservation legacy The White House said Biden will have conserved more lands and water than any other president, 670 million acres, following the latest move. Biden used the same authority in 2021 to restore protections for part of the Northern Bering Sea and again in 2023 to bar offshore drilling on 2.8 million acres in the Arctic Ocean. Yet Biden's conservation legacy faces uncertainty because of Trump, who campaigned on a slogan of "drill, baby, drill" even as domestic energy production in the U.S. is at an all-time high. "I will unban it. I have the right to unban it immediately," Trump said during an appearance Monday on conservative commentator Hugh Hewitt's radio show. "What's he doing? Why is he doing it? ... We have oil and gas at a level that nobody else has, and we're going to take advantage of it." President Joe Biden speaks during a reception for new democratic members of the United States Congress in the State Dining Room of the White House on January 5, 2025 in Washington, DC. Reversing Biden's order, however, might require action from Congress. The law invoked by Biden to execute the ban does not explicitly give presidents the authority to revoke a ban. And the Lands Act, which allows presidents to withdraw areas from mineral leasing and drilling, does not grant them the legal authority to overturn prior bans, according to a 2019 court ruling. Karoline Leavitt, the Trump's incoming press secretary, called Biden's actions "a disgraceful decision designed to exact political revenge on the American people who gave President Trump a mandate to increase drilling and lower gas prices." Offshore oil production, which primarily takes place in the Gulf of Mexico, accounts for about 15% of U.S. crude oil production. Environmentalists praised Biden's action. "This is an epic ocean victory," said Joseph Gordon, campaign director of Oceana, an ocean conservation advocacy organization. "Thank you, President Biden, for listening to the voices from coastal communities and contributing to the bipartisan tradition of protecting our coasts." Biden's ban drew immediate pushback from the oil and gas industry. American voters sent a clear message in support of domestic energy development, and yet the current administration is using its final days in office to cement a record of doing everything possible to restrict it," Mike Sommers, president and CEO of the American Petroleum Institute said in a statement. "We urge policymakers to use every tool at their disposal to reverse this politically motivated decision and restore a pro-American energy approach to federal leasing," Sommers said. Contributing: Reuters. Reach Joey Garrison on X @joeygarrison. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Biden bans new offshore oil, gas drilling along most US coasts By Ryan Woo BEIJING (Reuters) - One day before a key meeting of China's anti-graft watchdog, the state broadcaster aired a programme on how grassroots corruption is being crushed, dispelling any notion that China is losing its grip on graft. The first of four episodes of "Fighting Corruption for the People" ran on Sunday night, focusing on petty corruption cases including a northeastern primary school director profiting from kickbacks from on-campus meals and an official in rural Sichuan taking bribes from farm project contractors. Last year, China was rocked by a surge of corruption probes ensnaring individuals from a vice central bank governor to a former chairman of its biggest oil and gas company, adding to unease in an economy struggling to secure a firm footing and a society grappling with a fading sense of wealth. The list of individuals also included a top military official, Miao Hua, an admiral, whose fall from grace comes at a time when China is trying to modernise its armed forces and boost its battle readiness. To quash any thought the ruling Communist Party helmed by President Xi Jinping is behind the curve, the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI), declared in recent days that a record 58 "tigers", or senior officials, were probed last year. The anti-graft watchdog will gather on Monday through Wednesday to firm up its 2025 tasks, state media said. Last year, 47 of the officials probed were at the vice-ministerial level or above, including Tang Renjian, former minister of agriculture and rural affairs, and Gou Zhongwen, former head of the General Administration of Sport. Even retired high-ranking officials were not spared, such as Wang Yilin, former chairman and party secretary of state-owned China National Petroleum Corp. The corruption crackdown will continue, said Andrew Wedeman, a professor at Georgia State University. "I don't see how Xi could afford to back off at this point," Wedeman said. "A dozen years after he set out to cleanse the senior ranks, Xi is still finding widespread corruption at the top of the party-state and the PLA." The People's Liberation Army (PLA) has been swept by a wave of purges since 2023. Li Shangfu was removed from his post of defence minister after seven months. His predecessor Wei Fenghe was expelled from the party for "serious violations of discipline", a euphemism for corruption. "It would thus seem that the 'pool' Xi is drawing on to replace corrupt officials is also full of corrupt officials," said Wedeman. "If Xi is promoting corrupt officials, this suggests the party's internal vetting apparatus is not functioning effectively or, more seriously, is itself corrupted." China admits its anti-corruption efforts face new challenges, with traditional forms of corruption such as accepting cash becoming more insidious. "A businessman might offer me money directly, and I'd refuse," said Fan Yifei, a former vice governor of the People's Bank of China sentenced to death with a two-year reprieve. "But if he gives it in the form of stocks or other assets, not directly to me but to my family, that's a whole different matter," state media quoted Fan as saying. Even the lowly "flies" and "ants" in China's vast bureaucracy will not be spared in the corruption fight, as Sunday's television programme showed. "Compared to the 'tigers' far away, the public feels more strongly about the corruption around them," Sun Laibin, a professor at Peking University's School of Marxism, said on the programme. The anti-corruption fight must reach the "hearts" of the masses, he said, so that they can "deeply feel" the care of the party. (This story has been refiled to fix the spelling of Li Shangfu in paragraph 10) (Reporting by Ryan Woo) Key takeaways You should have another policy in effect before canceling your existing coverage to avoid your future car insurance premiums increasing substantially due to a lapse in coverage. If you are recuperating from surgery or embarking on a long vacation, you may want to suspend your car insurance instead of canceling. When you move to a new state, it helps to contact your insurance provider immediately to ensure that your policy aligns with the car insurance laws in your new location. Knowing how to cancel an insurance policy is important for several reasons. You may, for example, need to change to a new insurer if you move to a new state. Or perhaps you are taking an extended vacation where you wont be driving. Can you cancel your car insurance at any time? Probably, but you may end up paying a cancellation fee or could be due for a car insurance refund. Bankrates insurance editorial team created this guide so you will know how to cancel car insurance and when it is likely that you will need to do so. What happens when you cancel your car insurance policy? There are several consequences to canceling your car insurance. The most important, of course, is that you will not have insurance coverage unless you purchase a new policy in a timely manner. This can result in fines and other penalties, since a minimum amount of car insurance coverage is mandatory in almost all states (New Hampshire is the holdout). These penalties could include suspension of your license and even jail time. Lack of coverage also leaves you vulnerable to the costs associated with an accident if you are found to be the cause of one. If you are behind the wheel without coverage and cause an accident, you would be required to pay out-of-pocket for injuries and damagewhich could be significant after a serious accident. A lapse in coverage may also make it more difficult for you to purchase a new policy when you choose to do so. You may lose discounts, such as loyalty discounts, if there is a gap between your old policy and the new one. And if youve been without insurance long enough, some providers may consider you a higher risk, which usually means higher rates. How to cancel your car insurance Understanding how to cancel your insurance policy isnt difficult. Although every car insurance company has its own procedures, it should be fairly simple to contact the company and begin the process to end your coverage. However, note that every state does have regulations regarding when you should surrender your license plates (if youre not getting a new policy)whether its before or after you cancel your existing policy. Below are some steps you should consider taking to successfully cancel your policy. Purchase new coverage, if you will be driving again. This should be done before you cancel the old policy, to avoid a lapse in coverage. A lapse could increase your coverage rates. Connect with your insurer. Contact your company via email or postal mail or call your local agent to ask for your policy to be canceled. Find out if you need to pay a cancellation fee, or if you are likely to receive a refund for unused premiums. There may also be other requirements, such as giving 30 days notice. Sign a cancellation letter, if required. Not all insurers ask for this step, but if it is required, it will likely contain information about your policy and the amount of time left on it. Request a policy cancellation notice. You may receive this automatically, but if not, you can request it. When you should cancel your car insurance For drivers making a carrier switch, purchasing a new policy ahead of your current policys expiration is a good practice. If you are making a permanent cancellation, consider talking through your situation with an insurance agent to make sure that missing coverage will not put you at legal or financial risk. When you move Moving is likely to cause a change in your premium because location is a factor in determining your rate. If you move within the same state, you could need to work with a new local agent, but you shouldnt have to change your policy. Moving out of state, however, may mean transferring your policy or canceling it and purchasing a policy with the new states minimum requirements. If your current company does not operate in your new home area, you may need to shop around for coverage with another company. Be sure to note any requirements in both states. New York, for example, requires drivers to surrender their plates before they cancel their policy. Having a few days of overlapping coverage may not be a bad idea to protect yourself from possible fines. When you do not have a car When you sell a vehicle with no plans to replace it, you can cancel your auto insurance. However, it is usually a good idea to hold off on discontinuing coverage until the new owner takes possession and the title is transferred to them. Check with your local DMV to see if you are responsible for turning in your license plates or if they stay with the new owner. If you plan on getting a new car within a few months of selling your old one, you may want to speak with an agent about converting your policy to a non-owner policy. This may help you avoid an insurance lapse, maintain the policy discounts you earned with the company over time and avoid a possible rate increase. When you want a better deal You may decide to switch your auto insurance provider to get a better rate. Again, it is usually a good idea to secure a new policy before dropping your current coverage. Having the start date of your new policy match the intended cancellation date of the old policy is the best way to ensure there will be no lapse in coverage. Experts recommend shopping for a new insurance company at least six to eight weeks before your coverage is set to expire. When you want to reduce coverage If you have an older vehicle you own outright, you might consider dropping optional collision and comprehensive coverage. Consider the risks beforehand, though. It is important to note that if you discontinue collision and comprehensive, you will likely have to pay out of pocket if your car is damaged or stolen, so you need to be prepared financially. This would be considered a policy amendment, not a policy cancellation. When youre covered under someone elses policy You may wish to cancel your insurance if you are a member of a household where another person has coverage and you can be added to their policy. This is most likely to be the case if you get married, but could also be appropriate for adult children moving back home. Adding a driver to an existing policy might increase your premium, but there may also be discounts available to help mitigate the increase. Keep in mind that insurance follows the vehicle, not the person, so if you drop coverage on your car by canceling your policy, youd need to add that vehicle to the other persons policy to ensure financial coverage. Thankfully, a multi-vehicle policy usually results in a discount. When you should not cancel your car insurance While you can cancel your auto insurance anytime, you may not always need to. Before canceling your coverage, it might help to think through why you no longer need insurance and create a strategic approach to prevent potential legal or premium-related issues. When you will be driving Canceling coverage on a vehicle you still plan to drive is not the best idea, as it could put you at financial risk and potentially violate state laws. Speak with a licensed insurance agent to learn more about how driving your vehicle without insurance could affect you. When you get married or divorced Getting married or divorced usually indicates that a policy review and changes are needed. You can add a new spouse to your current auto policy and may even earn a discount for tying the knot. You could potentially also qualify for a multi-policy discount if you and your new spouse have insurance with the same company. If you get divorced, you can typically remove your ex-spouses name from your current policy instead of canceling the policy altogether. When you are only temporarily not driving If you plan on taking a break from driving for an extended period, some car insurance companies will allow you to suspend your car insurance and put your vehicle on a storage plan. In some places, you will have to send a written request for suspension or cancel your license plates, while in other states you can simply call your agent. If you cancel your insurance policy instead of suspending it, your insurance company will likely view this break as a lapse in coverage and your insurance premium may increase when you purchase a new policy. When your premium is high A high premium does not necessarily mean you need to cancel your coverage. Most auto insurers offer several types of discounts. You may qualify for a discount for driving safely, taking a virtual driving course or reporting your cars safety features, such as airbags or anti-lock brakes. Contact your agent to find out how discounts can lower your rate and which ones you may be eligible for that you arent currently taking advantage of. If I cancel my auto insurance, will I get a refund? If you paid your premium in advance and cancel your policy before the end of the term, the insurance company might refund the remaining balance. Most auto insurers will prorate your refund based on the number of days your current policy was in effect. The insurance industry is highly regulated, and each state has insurance statutes that govern how companies must handle refunds. In Nebraska, for example, an auto insurer must contact you within 15 business days of cancellation to inform you about any eligible refunds. In many states, like Texas, if you finance your premium through a premium finance company, the insurance company may return the unused premium to the finance company, not you. Unless otherwise stated in a statute, auto insurance companies usually do not have the obligation to refund your money within a given time period. To avoid refund headaches, it is best to notify your auto insurer of your plans to cancel when it is almost time to renew. Check with your carrier before canceling to learn more about its insurance cancellation policy. Car insurance cancellation fees Depending on the auto insurance company, canceling your policy before the end of its term may result in a cancellation fee. State laws can determine if a fee is allowable. If so, it is up to the insurer to set that fee, which is often taken out of the prorated refund. Cancellation fees can be a flat fee or a short-rate fee. With short-rate cancellations, the insurer will charge the policyholder a percentage of the unearned premium usually 10 percent. This amount will be taken from the remaining refund, or the policyholder will receive a bill if there isnt a refund owed. What happens if you stop paying your premiums without canceling your car insurance policy? If you want to discontinue your coverage, it is best to contact your insurer or your agent. If you stop paying your premiums but do not cancel your policy, your carrier will eventually cancel your policy for nonpayment. However, there may be charges for insurance coverage up until that point, along with possible late fees. Failing to properly notify your insurer that you want to cancel may even impact your ability to locate auto coverage in the future. Even if you intend on finding a new car insurance company, missing payments entirely could lead to poor payment history and make securing affordable rates more difficult. Similarly, if you have automatic bank account withdrawal enabled to pay your premiums, you may continue to pay for coverage that you do not intend to keep. Notifying your insurance company of your intent to cancel, along with providing a specific cancellation date, allows the insurer to follow the appropriate cancellation procedures such as notifying the DMV of the cancellation on your behalf and starting any refund process. Frequently asked questions A public health warning is an important message for people with cats. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has advised people not to purchase Monarch Raw Pet Food, often sold at farmer's markets across California, after a cat tested positive for bird flu from their products. The news is a concerning development in the growing number of bird flu cases that have been spreading across the United States. According to the press release sent out by the organization, the H5N1 bird flu was detected in Monarch Raw Pet Food cat food recently, prompting the organization to share their warning. Related: Cats in the U.S. Are Contracting Bird Flu: What Pet Parents Need to Know "A house cat that consumed this product has been confirmed H5 bird flu positive," the press release states. "Four other house cats from the same household are presumed to have also been positive for H5 bird flu after consuming the product." The organization also advised that any other animals that consumed Monarch raw pet food products "or other raw meat or dairy products" and is showing symptoms of H5N1 should contact their veterinarian "immediately," the press release states. A full listing of where Monarch Raw Pet Food is sold can be found on their website. This is the second time a warning about raw pet food has been issued because of bird flu in the last two weeks. On December 26, the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) warned consumers against Northwest Naturals brand 2 lb. Turkey Recipe raw & frozen pet food. The food also tested positive for H5N1 bird flu. Both the U.S. Department of Agricultures (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) and the Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (ODVL) at Oregon State University conducted the tests after a house cat in Washington County contracted the illness and died. "Tests confirmed a genetic match between the virus in the raw and frozen pet food and the infected cat," a press release from ODA states. The company voluntarily recalled their products after the bird flu was found. The Today Show reports that dozens of cats have died since the bird flu outbreak started in March 2024. Cats seem to be more susceptible to die of bird flu than other animals. They seem to contract the illness from a variety of sources; either from unpasteurized dairy products, raw meat, exposure to infected birds, or exposure to people who work with infected birds. The illness can even be passed through the clothing that these poultry workers wear. As for now, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has stated that the public health risk is low. There have been no known human-to-human cases of bird flu transmission. Although a few humans have contracted the illness through working with infected animals. The ODA is now urging cat owners to avoid feeding their cats raw or undercooked meat products, avoid consuming raw dairy, limit any contact with sick animals, wash your hands after handling raw animal products or any contact with sick animals, report any dead or ill birds to your local government organizations, and keep any pets or poultry away from wild waterfowl. According to TODAY, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has stressed that humans should also not consume raw milk or meat for these reasons. 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. Teso Life opened a store in Houston, shown here, last spring. The company plans to open a store in San Antonio. Bao Ong / Staff Teso Life opened a store in Houston, shown here, last spring. The company plans to open a store in San Antonio. Bao Ong / Staff Teso Life, a new Japanese store in West Houston, offers an impressive selection of Asian snacks Bao Ong / Staff Japanese retailer Teso Life is opening its first store in San Antonio. The department store chain has leased 26,250 square feet at University Square shopping center on the citys Northwest Side. Its tenants include Taiwanese chain 85C Bakery Cafe, bubble tea shop Hella Bubble, Vietnamese restaurant Pho Hung Cuong and HuHot Mongolian Grill and Einstein Bagels. We are very excited to have them join our center as a true anchor, said Sean OGrady of Glazer Properties, which handles leasing at University Square. We feel this is an exciting opportunity for Teso and their ever-expanding brand. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Queens, N.Y.-based Teso Life positions itself as a larger, more upscale version of Daiso, which moved into San Antonio last year and now has four stores in the area. Teso Life says it offers high-quality, creative, low-cost products. It sells fashion, food, skincare and makeup items, kitchenware, stationery, baby supplies and toys for pets. It operates or is in the process of opening 31 U.S. stores. Those include locations in Carrollton, Frisco and Houston that are open and a location in Katy expected to debut this year. Its unclear when Teso Life plans to open its store at 12730 I-10 West in San Antonio; the company did not respond to an inquiry. Advertisement Article continues below this ad When it opens, it will be joining Daiso, which has proven popular in the area. The Hiroshima-based dollar store chain, which drew crowds at its grand opening celebrations in San Antonio last year, sells items ranging from home decor and stationery to food and cosmetics. The company has said it plans to increase its U.S. store count to 1,000 by 2030. It has more than 100 stores nationwide, including 22 across the Austin, Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth areas. About three miles south of where Teso Life is opening its store, a one-mile stretch of Wurzbach Road from I-10 to Fredericksburg Road was recently designated as San Antonios Silk Road Cultural Heritage District to highlight the Northwest Side communities with roots in North and Central Africa to Eastern Asia. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The closure of a marine zoo in the south of France has sparked intense debate over the future of its inhabitants, including two beloved orcas. Marineland Antibes, near Cannes, closed for good on Sunday, with management citing legislation banning shows featuring cetaceans such as dolphins and whales, which the French government passed in 2021. The law, which will come into effect in December 2026, also bans direct contact between visitors and cetaceans. French lawmakers passed a ban on shows featuring whales and dolphins in 2021. - Miguel Medina/AFP/Getty Images In a statement published December 4, Marineland said it was shutting its doors because 90% of visitors to the park come to watch the orca and dolphin shows. It said it had taken the decision with deep sadness, and was working closely with French authorities to rehome the animals. At present, though, it is unclear what will happen to the parks two orcas a 23-year-old female named Wikie and her son Keijo, 10 as well as 12 dolphins. Marineland initially planned to send Wikie and Keijo to a marine park in Japan. This plan met with uproar from animal rights groups, which said the move would be harmful to their wellbeing, citing the fact that Japan still practices whaling and does not have equivalent laws to European countries on the treatment of animals. The French government then stepped in, publishing a report in which it said that the only acceptable options were to send the orcas to a new sanctuary in Nova Scotia, Canada, or to rehouse them at the Loro Parque marine park in Tenerife, which is part of the Spanish Canary Islands. Loro Parque has housed orcas since 2006 and would offer similar conditions to Marineland, according to the government report. But animal rights campaigners are pushing for the whales to be rehoused in the Canadian sanctuary, where they would no longer be made to perform in shows. Muriel Arnal, president of French animal rights organization One Voice, told CNN that the sanctuary is the best option for the mother-son pair. Japan is not at all a good solution, she said, adding that Loro Parque would also pose problems. They would continue to live in captivity, in smaller pools, in the Spanish park, Arnal said, adding that Wikie and Keijo would probably be separated so that Wikie could reproduce, breaking the family bonds that help orcas deal with the stresses of life in captivity. And while there is a risk in moving the orcas to a sanctuary, a plan is in place to transfer them first to a sea pen before releasing them into a 44-hectare (109-acre) area of ocean, Arnal said. The orcas will remain at Marineland while their fate is decided, she added, with public pressure increasing. Its incredible how many people are mobilizing around this, Arnal said. CNN has contacted Marineland Antibes for comment. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Elon Musk's battle with OpenAI could get heated in 2025. Anadolu Elon Musk's lawsuit against OpenAI will likely play out in 2025. Musk says OpenAI has lost sight of its mission to develop AI safety, prioritizing profits instead. Here's what you need to know about a battle that could impact the future of artificial intelligence. Two of the most powerful forces in the AI industry are set to collide this year: xAI's Elon Musk and OpenAI's Sam Altman. Musk was one of 11 cofounders, including Altman and Greg Brockman, who established OpenAI as a nonprofit in 2015 with the mission to "advance digital intelligence in the way that is most likely to benefit humanity as a whole, unconstrained by a need to generate financial return." Musk left in 2018 a year before OpenAI added a for-profit arm citing a conflict of interest with his work at Tesla, though his lawyers say that he contributed to the company until mid-2020. Since then, he's become a vocal skeptic of OpenAI's commitment to prioritizing transparency and safety over profit. The feud between the founders escalated in August when Musk filed a lawsuit against Altman, OpenAI, and Microsoft, the company's biggest investor. Musk accused them of deception and prioritizing profits despite its stated mission. That lawsuit will likely play out this year a major battle that could impact the future of artificial intelligence. Here's what to expect. Musk's legal challenges against OpenAI Musk first filed a lawsuit against OpenAI in a California state court in February 2024, accusing OpenAI of violating its nonprofit mission by partnering with Microsoft. Musk withdrew that suit in June. He filed a new lawsuit in August 2024, this time in a federal court, accusing OpenAI of a bait-and-switch deception that violates RICO laws anti-racketeering laws first designed to target organized crime families. Musk's lawyers say in the lawsuit that Musk "lent his name to the venture, invested significant time and millions of dollars in seed capital, and recruited top AI scientists for the company," all with the understanding that OpenAI would remain a nonprofit and prioritize developing the technology safely. Musk's lawyers say OpenAI "betrayed" its mission when it added a for-profit arm in 2019 and deepened its partnership with Microsoft in 2023. "Musk and the nonprofit's namesake objective were betrayed by Altman and his accomplices," the lawsuit reads. "The perfidy and deceit are of Shakespearean proportions." In mid-November, Musk's lawyers expanded their complaint to include accusations that OpenAI and Microsoft violated antitrust laws by asking the company's investors not to back competitors in the generative AI space, like Musk's own xAI, which he launched in 2023. In his latest move, Musk asked a federal judge to stop OpenAI from converting into a fully for-profit corporate entity. OpenAI has denied Musk's claims. A representative for the company directed Business Insider to a post it published on December 13 responding to Musk's allegations. "Now that OpenAI is the leading AI research lab and Elon runs a competing AI company, he's asking the court to stop us from effectively pursuing our mission," OpenAI wrote. "You can't sue your way to AGI. We have great respect for Elon's accomplishments and gratitude for his early contributions to OpenAI, but he should be competing in the marketplace rather than the courtroom." Resolving the lawsuit could take months or even years. US District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, who is overseeing the case in the San Francisco federal court, hasn't yet set a trial date. Rogers will begin hearing arguments on January 14 on whether she should issue the preliminary injunction to prevent OpenAI from converting into a nonprofit until the rest of the case is resolved. In weighing whether to issue the injunction, Rogers is supposed to consider the "likelihood of success" that Musk will win the case. Her decision will provide an indication of how the rest of the case might play out. Why OpenAI's corporate structure matters In a blog entry posted to its website on December 27, OpenAI explained why it needed to evolve its corporate structure. The company said it wants to transition its for-profit arm into a Delaware Public Benefit Corporation which, unlike a traditional company, prioritizes social good alongside profit to prepare for a more capital-intensive future. OpenAI said the structural change would enable it to "raise the necessary capital" to pursue its mission of developing artificial general intelligence and to give it more leeway to consider the interests of its backers. The company said it would still run a nonprofit on the side focused more narrowly on charitable initiatives in healthcare, education, and science. Rose Chan Loui, a nonprofit legal expert at UCLA, said OpenAI's current nonprofit status grants it significant control over technological development. "What we lose in this conversion is a nonprofit with the unique ability to control AI development activities to be a watchdog from the inside, making sure that AI is being developed safely and for the benefit of humanity. From that perspective, it seems to me that the nonprofit's current control position is priceless," she wrote to Business Insider in an email. If the conversion to a for-profit public benefit corporation goes through, OpenAI would need to ensure that the nonprofit retains assets worth as much as it's giving up, including a significant premium for its control. That could be in the form of cash or stock that it can sell for cash. Still, "what seems to be envisioned is a grant-making foundation that can do good but will have a very reduced, if any, impact on the development of AI," Chan Loui said. Former employees have also raised concerns that the nonprofit would have a reduced role in public safety. Miles Brundage, OpenAI's former head of AGI Readiness, who left in October, responded to OpenAI's December post, saying on X that "a well-capitalized nonprofit on the side is no substitute for PBC product decisions (e.g. on pricing + safety mitigations) being aligned to the original nonprofit's mission." He added that much of OpenAI's rationale for conversion makes sense. However, there are still "red flags," including a lack of details about its new governance structure and guardrails around the technology. Other individuals and organizations have filed amicus briefs to the federal court where Musk filed his suit. These briefs are meant to inform the court and help it make a decision. Kathleen Jennings, the attorney general for Delaware, where OpenAI is incorporated, filed one last week. She detailed her role in protecting the public interest if OpenAI becomes a for-profit public benefit corporation. Chan Loui said Jennings' brief is a hopeful sign that no matter what happens, the public interest will ultimately win. "It is encouraging that the Delaware AG has stated her commitment to protecting the public interest, including seeking an injunction if she determines that the conversion is inconsistent with OpenAI's mission and its obligations to the public, that OpenAI's board members are not fulfilling their fiduciary duties, or if the value of the conversion or the process for arriving at it is not 'entirely fair,'" she said. Lawyers for Musk did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider. Read the original article on Business Insider The Federal Reserves top banking regulator Michael Barr will step down from his position in February, saying that "the risk of a dispute over the position could be a distraction from our mission." Fed watchers expected President-elect Donald Trump to demote Barr, who was a Joe Biden appointee and a Treasury official during the Barack Obama era, although it was not clear that Trump would have had the legal power to make such a move once he took office. Barr himself said in November he wouldnt leave as the Fed's vice chair of supervision before his term was up even if Trump tried to fire him, saying "I intend to serve my fixed term of office." Barr's term as vice chair for supervision was scheduled to end in July 2026. Barr backed off from that potential fight Monday, in a surprise move. However, he said that he would remain on the Fed board of governors, a separate term that doesn't end until 2032. Federal Reserve Board Vice Chair for Supervision, Michael Barr. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein (REUTERS / Reuters) "Ive determined that I would be more effective in serving the American people from my role as governor," he said. Barrs decision to resign by Feb. 28 doesn't mean his boss, Fed chair Jerome Powell, will necessarily do the same. Since Trump's election win, Powell has repeatedly reinforced his intention to serve out his term as chair through May 2026, telling reporters he didnt intend to go anywhere even if Trump tried to fire or demote him. "Not permitted under the law," the central bank chair said in November when reporters asked about it. Barr's departure comes as the people in Trumps orbit are floating some dramatic ideas that would remake the way US banks are regulated, from deleting the CFPB to abolishing the FDIC. There are lots of questions about whether any of the ideas, some of which would require acts of Congress, will come to pass. U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque (REUTERS / Reuters) Barr has clashed with the US banking industry over a new set of controversial capital rules proposed by top bank regulators that would require lenders to set aside greater buffers for future losses. The requirements are based on an international set of capital requirements known as Basel III imposed in the decade following the 2008 financial crisis. Banks have been fighting this US proposal for the last year in an aggressive public campaign and even dropped hints about suing regulators if they dont get their way. They won a big victory in September when Barr and other regulators said they would water down those requirements. Some in the industry expect regulators to scrap the proposal once Trump is in office. "If there was any doubt," the Basel proposal "is dead," Stifel chief Washington policy strategist Brian Gardner said in a note. Fed governor Michelle Bowman, who in 2023 opposed the Basel proposal, "seems like the likely choice" to become the new vice chair for supervision, Garner added. Bowman is a former state bank commissioner of Kansas and vice president of Farmers & Drovers Bank in Council Council Grove, Kan. She was the lone Fed official to dissent against a 50-basis point interest rate cut from the central bank in September. Federal Reserve governor Michelle Bowman in 2019. REUTES/Ann Saphir (REUTERS / Reuters) "I stand ready to work with President Trump to ensure we have responsible financial regulators at the helm," Senate Banking Committee chair Tim Scott said in a statement Monday, arguing that "Michael Barr has failed to meet the responsibilities of his position." A longtime adviser to Trump, Stephen Moore, told Yahoo Finance Friday that replacing Barr was "something in the mix" as part of a second Trump term. Moore said that since Barr is in favor of raising capital requirements thats not something the incoming administration wants "because we'd like to see more bank lending and that would restrict bank lending or hurt the economy." It is not clear that Trump would have had the legal power to remove Barr or Powell, for that matter even if he wanted to do so. That question would hinge on interpretations of Section 10 of the Federal Reserve Act. The law states that each board member shall hold office for 14 years "unless sooner removed for cause by the President." The question that has been debated for years is what exactly constitutes "for cause." The language in the law is plainly more restrictive for Fed officials when compared with the arrangements for cabinet officials and other members of a presidential administration, who are often described as working "at the pleasure" of the president. Legal experts have tended to say that a simple policy disagreement wouldn't rise to the level of cause, but it's a standard that hasn't been tested with a judge. Click here for in-depth analysis of the latest stock market news and events moving stock prices Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance Chinese health officials are reportedly monitoring an increase in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV). There is currently no evidence that the outbreak is out of the ordinary or that a new respiratory virus or illness has emerged in China. A spokesperson for the World Health Organization (WHO) said data from China indicates "there has been a recent rise in acute respiratory infections" but that "the overall scale and intensity of respiratory infectious diseases in China this year are lower than last year." Cases of HMPV have been steadily increasing in the U.S. since November 2024 with 1.94% of weekly tests positive for HMPV as of Dec. 28, 2024, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). By comparison, 18.71% of weekly tests were positive for flu and 7.10% were positive for COVID during the same week, the data shows. In a statement Monday, the CDC said the agency is "monitoring reports of increased disease" in China as the country reportedly deals with rising number of HMPV cases. The reports are "not currently a cause for concern in the U.S." the agency adds. Public health experts told ABC News that HMPV is well-known to health care professionals and commonly circulates during respiratory virus season. MORE: Cases of RSV, flu ticking up among young children in US as respiratory virus season begins "This is that winter respiratory virus season, indeed," Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of preventive medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, told ABC News. "So, all of these respiratory viruses influenza, COVID, RSV, human metapneumovirus they all increase this time of the year, in part because we get so close to each other." "We spend time indoors and, of course, all of this holiday traveling, family get-together, and parties have been opportunities for us to get close together and for the virus to be transmitted," he continued. Here's what you need to know about HMPV, including what it is, how it spreads and how to treat it. What is HMPV? HMPV is a virus that can cause upper and lower respiratory disease, according to the CDC. It was discovered in 2001 and is in the Pneumoviridae family along with respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, the CDC said. PHOTO: Computer illustration of particles of the human metapneumovirus (hMPV), a respiratory virus that affects almost all children by the age of 5. (Roger Harris/Getty Images) Over the years, there has been a better understanding and awareness of HMPV, which has led to broader testing, according to the federal health agency. "Human metapneumovirus is another one of those respiratory viruses that we're now appreciating more because we have the diagnostic capability to actually diagnose it more readily in hospitals, emergency rooms and even in physicians' offices," Schaffner said. "Now we have diagnostic panels that can tell you whether you have influenza or COVID or RSV or human metapneumovirus." What are the symptoms? HMPV has an incubation period of three to six days, according to the CDC. Symptoms include cough, nasal congestion, fever and shortness of breath, the federal health agency said. "It's oftentimes indistinguishable from the other respiratory viruses, because we don't usually check for it unless somebody is really ill," Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, a professor of medicine and an infectious diseases specialist at the University of California, San Francisco, told ABC News. Young children and adults aged 65 and older are among those at the highest risk of HMPV progressing to bronchitis or pneumonia. MORE: Some hospitals seeing increase in RSV, 'walking pneumonia.' Here's what to know How does it spread? HMPV can spread through secretions from coughing and sneezing, close personal contact and touching objects that have the virus and then touching the eyes, nose or mouth, according to the CDC. In the U.S., like other respiratory viruses, HMPV cases typically rise in the winter and decrease in the spring. Chin-Hong said most people are exposed to HMPV by the time they're five years old. People can get reinfected, but symptoms are typically milder. Those who are immunocompromised or are older may experience more severe symptoms if they are reinfected. Is there treatment for HMPV? There are no antivirals to treat HMPV, so treatment consists of providing supportive care to patients with moderate or severe symptoms, the experts said. "If you're wheezing, we'll give bronchodilators," Chin-Hong said, referencing a medication that relaxes and opens the airways and helps clear mucus from the lungs. "If you're dehydrated, we give fluid; we reduce the fever." PHOTO: Stock photo. (Burlingham/Adobe) Chin-Hong said that because people may develop co-infections, including bacterial infections, antibiotics may need to be given. How do I prevent HMPV? There is no vaccine to prevent HMPV, so prevention includes following basic hygiene including washing hands with soap and water, covering the nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing and staying home when sick. "People who are in this high-risk group for any of these viruses particularly older people, people who are frail, people who are immune-compromised if they go indoors where there are a lot of people, [they should] put their mask back on and also consider social distancing," Schaffner said. MORE: Despite 'game-changing' new RSV shots, uptake lagged among infants, adults: Experts Chin-Hong and Schaffner added that it's important for people to receive vaccines for other respiratory illnesses including COVID-19, flu and RSV. Getting vaccinated against other respiratory viruses can reduce the risk of co-infection and may help health care professionals rule out certain illnesses much sooner. "Sure, you can get serious disease from HMPV itself, but if you get HMPV plus pneumococcus or HMPV plus influenza or RSV, it could be much worse," Chim-Hong said. "During respiratory virus season, you want to minimize the probability of co-infection." ABC News' Youri Benadjaoud contributed to this report What you need to know about HMPV as China sees rise in cases originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Krispy Kreme x Pop Tarts Krispy Kreme x Pop Tarts Crazy Good Doughnuts Krispy Kreme and Pop-Tarts are collaborating on toaster-less sweets. The bakery chain is launching the Krispy Kreme x Pop-Tarts Crazy Good Doughnuts Collection: a smattering of new treats inspired by three different toaster pastries. Starting on Monday, Jan. 6, customers can try Pop-Tarts Frosted Strawberry Doughnut, Pop-Tarts Frosted Chocolatey Fudge Doughnut and Pop-Tarts Frosted Brown Sugar Cinnamon Doughnut. Each doughnut pays homage to an iconic Pop-Tarts flavor. The Pop-Tarts Frosted Strawberry Doughnut is the only stuffed doughnut in the collection. This treat takes an unglazed doughnut, fills it with strawberry filling and dips it in shortbread icing. Then each doughnut is topped with shortbread cookie pieces, sprinkles, pieces of Frosted Strawberry Pop-Tarts Bites and a drizzle of strawberry filling. Courtesy of KRISPY KREME and Pop-Tarts Krispy Kreme x Pop-Tarts Crazy Good Doughnuts The Pop-Tarts Frosted Brown Sugar Cinnamon Doughnut tops a cinnamon sugar doughnut with brown sugar cinnamon cream cheese buttercream and a Frosted Cinnamon Roll Pop-Tarts Bites. Last, but certainly not least, is the Pop-Tarts Frosted Chocolatey Fudge Doughnut. An original glazed doughnut is dipped in chocolate icing and covered with brownie batter-flavored buttercream, Frosted Chocolatey Fudge Pop-Tarts Bites crumbs and white sprinkles. Related: Chick-fil-A Changes Waffle Fries and Customers Are Not Happy: 'Whatever You Have Done, Undo It!' The limited-time doughnuts are available individually or by the dozen in stores nationwide. Plus, select grocery stores will have 6-pack boxes delivered daily. On Dec. 30, Krispy Kreme announced the restoration of its online ordering system, which went down earlier that month. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. The company filed a report with the Securities and Exchange Commission after it said that it was hit with a cyber-attack, leading the company to close online ordering. In other exciting Krispy Kreme news for 2025, the doughnut chain is partnering with McDonalds to bring glazed doughnuts to the Big Mac house. In March, the two companies announced that McDonald's was working to carry some Krispy Kreme products and locations in Chicago kicked off the collaboration in October by selling doughnuts. The company plans to add the baked goods to thousands of locations nationwide this year with a plan to reach 12,000 locations by the end of 2026, according to a release. Read the original article on People EPC Sheriff's Office/Facebook(3) Stephen Walker, Johnny Morris, Hailey Cole A Colorado man vanished nearly three weeks ago from his sober living house, and now his roommate is accused of killing him and another man, say authorities. On Jan. 3, the El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal announced that the body of Stephen Walker, 37, of Cimmaron Hills, had been found in a wooded area outside of El Paso County. His roommate, Johnny Rankin Morris, 46, of Cimmaron Hills, was arrested in Pearl River County, Miss., on a warrant issued on Dec. 31, 2024, and charged in connection with Walkers death, Roybal said in a release. Morris is charged with first-degree murder, tampering with a deceased human body and tampering with physical evidence in connection with Walker's death, police said. GoogleMaps The home in Colorado where Stephen Walker was living when he vanished He was arrested in Mississippi on Dec. 30 on unrelated charges. He is awaiting extradition from Mississippi and is being held without bond. The investigation began on Dec. 19, when Walker was reported missing from the house where he was living on Pima Drive in Cimmaron Hills, the El Paso County Sheriffs Office said in a statement. Deputies responded to the house and came upon large quantities of blood in multiple locations throughout the residence, the sheriff said. The sheriffs office began searching for Morris as a person of interest in Walkers disappearance. They said he was with a woman named Hailey Cole, 43, and was traveling with her to Mississippi, where they are from, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation said. 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. On Dec. 24, police were called to a home on Campfire Road in Park County, Colo., for a welfare check and found the body of Timmy Huston, 65, the Park County Sheriff's Office said. Deputies found Walker's car about a mile from Huston's house, police said. Two days later, the Pearl River County Sheriffs Office in Mississippi received a call about a man allegedly matching Morris description trying to break into the caller's vehicle, the Pearl River County Sheriffs Office said in a release. Deputies searched the area and found Morris and Cole camping in a shed. They were arrested on outstanding warrants in Mississippi for failure to appear and receiving stolen property. Mississippi authorities learned that the pair were persons of interest in a death/missing persons investigation and contacted the El Paso County Sheriffs Office, the Pearl River County Sheriffs Office said. Morris and Cole are both facing first-degree murder charges in connection with Hustons death, authorities said. Walker was living in a sober living house when he vanished, his family and friends said, KRDO reports. He got sober, an unidentified friend told KRDO. He actually helped me get sober. We were sober together in Arizona for a while. He was just a big inspiration. It is unclear whether the suspects have attorneys who can comment on their behalf. Read the original article on People Emmanuel Macrons speech to French ambassadors around the world also reassured Donald Trump that France and the US were strong allies - Aurelien Morissard/Getty Images Emmanuel Macron has accused Elon Musk of directly intervening in elections around the world, including Germanys elections next month. In a speech to French ambassadors on Monday, the French president said: Ten years ago, who could have imagined it if we had been told that the owner of one of the largest social networks in the world would support a new international reactionary movement and intervene directly in elections, including in Germany. Outlining Frances foreign policy for 2025, Mr Macron who did not directly name Mr Musk also re-emphasised Frances support for the incoming Trump administration, saying the US president-elect knows he has a strong ally in France. Mr Macrons response appears to be part of a concerted effort by European leaders to publicly push back against Mr Musk. He was joined by Sir Keir Starmer and the Norwegian prime minister in challenging the billionaire. He referenced meddling in Germany after Mr Musk expressed support for the hard-Right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party on his social media platform X and in an opinion column for the Welt am Sonntag newspaper. The Tesla billionaires piece claimed the portrayal of the AfD as Right-wing extremist is clearly false, considering that Alice Weidel, the partys leader, has a same-sex partner from Sri Lanka! Does that sound like Hitler to you? Please! Emmanuel Macron cuts the Epiphany cake after his speech to the French Bakery and Pastry Federation members at the Elysee Palace in Paris - SARAH MEYSSONNIER/AFP The newspapers opinion editor later said she had resigned after the column was published. Mr Musk has become increasingly open in his support for the party, which has been classified as a suspected extremist party by Germanys intelligence services. Last month, he declared that only the AfD can save Germany. On Sunday, Olaf Scholz, the German chancellor, responded to Mr Musks recent criticisms, saying: Dont feed the troll. As Social Democrats, we have long been used to the fact that there are rich media entrepreneurs who do not appreciate social democratic politics, and do not hide their opinions, he told the German outlet Stern, adding that he would make no effort to engage with Mr Musk. In his speech, Mr Macron said France remained a staunch ally of America and that he assumed a stance of relative prudence regarding Mr Trumps return to the White House. The pair have had a chequered relationship, but Mr Macron scored a diplomatic coup last month when the US president-elect chose France as his first post-election destination to attend the reopening ceremony of Notre-Dame cathedral. Mr Musk, who Mr Macron received at the Elysee last year and called on to choose France for investment, was also among the guests at the ceremony in the restored cathedral. From 2016 to 2020, France knew how to work with president Trump, said Mr Macron, without denying the existence of disagreements concerning international order and the climate question, facing a very significant risk of regression because of the Trump administration resuming massive production of fossil fuels in a no-holds-barred manner. He added: Its up to us to know how to cooperate with the choice that has been made by the American people. Mr Musks recent intervention into German politics is part of an ongoing feud against the chancellor, who he has branded a fool, referred to as Oaf Schitz, and repeatedly called on to resign. A German government spokesman played down Mr Musks influence on the countrys population, saying: The normal people, the sensible people, the decent people are far in the majority in this country. We act as if Mr Musks statements on Twitter could influence a country of 84 million people with untruths or half-truths or expressions of opinion. This is simply not the case. Mr Musk, who was rewarded with an advisory role in Trumps administration after playing a key role in the Republicans campaign, has increasingly been using X to push his political views, often backing hard-Right and anti-establishment parties across Europe while attacking centre-Left leaders. Recently, the Tesla CEO has also waded aggressively into UK politics, calling for a new election and hitting out at Sir Keir Starmer over what he said was his failure to prosecute gangs of men who raped young girls. On Monday, the Prime Minister condemned the lies and misinformation undermining UK democracy following Mr Musks attacks on his Government. Jonas Gahr Store, the Norwegian prime minister, said on Monday he found it worrying that someone with such wealth and influence was getting involved in the politics of European countries. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. WASHINGTON A major winter storm that turned deadly in the Midwest over the weekend pummeled the Mid-Atlantic region Monday, prompting travel hazards, shutting down schools, and closing federal offices in the nation's capital. Tens of millions were under winter storm advisories and tens of thousands of homes and businesses were without power late Monday as the storm stretched from Kansas to Virginia and Washington D.C. Kevin Witt, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington office, told USA TODAY Monday night that the bulk of the snowstorm in the D.C. area had ended but that another inch or two may accumulate into the night. In the latest available data, Witt said 5.5 inches of snow had accumulated within the past 24 hours at the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport as of 4 p.m. This is one of the bigger storms, Witt said. We haven't had one like this in a couple years. Temperatures in the D.C. area aren't expected to climb above freezing until at least Friday, Witt noted, but the accumulated snow could melt from sunshine and refreeze as the week progresses, which may make the roads slippery even after the snow has stopped. The brutal snowstorm was enough to shutter federal office buildings but did not keep Congress from gathering to certify Donald Trump's election as president. In neighboring Virginia, state emergency management officials said crews were working around the clock to clear roads. "There is 'snow' place like home during wintry weather," the department said in a social media post. "Having fewer cars on the road will help to keep everyone safe and allow crews to safely perform their jobs." Developments: Over the last 30 hours, troopers from seven different Indiana State Police districts recorded 210 vehicle crashes, 111 road slide-offs, 145 motorist assists, and 88 traffic hazards. The Kansas Highway Patrol said two people died Sunday in a crash blamed on the weather in Sedgwick County. And in Mound City, Missouri, a pedestrian was struck and killed Saturday by a sliding truck, the Missouri State Highway Patrol said. Pennsylvania State Police are investigating a fatal crash involving a Transportation Department plow truck Saturday in Greenfield Township over the weekend. The Cleveland, Ohio, weather service office reported as much as 15 inches of snow on the ground in Ashtabula County. Scores of Ohio school districts shuttered schools Monday, including the 46,000-student Columbus district and the 35,000-student Cincinnati district. Nineteen counties declared snow emergencies. The National Weather Service said 7.8 inches of snow fell in Indianapolis from Sunday to Monday the highest storm total in the Indiana capital city in at least three years. Eight cities from Kansas to West Virginia set daily snowfall records Sunday, including Kansas City, Missouri, which set its fourth-highest daily snowfall total with 11 inches, AccuWeather reported. Meteorologists also said Cincinnati had a record daily snowfall for Monday with a total of 4.2 inches breaking the previous record of 3.5 inches set in 1981. Brutal winter storm: In Midwest, East Coast over 60M face treacherous conditions 5 feet of snow falls in central New York state The ferocious winter storm has brought historic snowfall amounts to the Midwest, breaking daily snowfall records in Kentucky, Missouri, Ohio and West Virginia. In central New York, preliminary 24-hour snow totals topped a staggering 5 feet. Some of the big hits include Oneida County, New York, 67 inches; Saint George, Kansas, 18 inches; and Thompson Pass, Arkansas with 17 inches. You can see how much snow has already fallen and what's expected over the coming days in some areas here. Hundreds gather for snowball fight in DC While residential streets in Washington's Columbia Heights neighborhood were largely empty Monday, hundreds of people gathered in Meridian Hill Park for a snowball fight. The crowd of all ages formed a large circle and during several rounds that started after a count to three pelted each other with clumps of snow. Some used sleds as shields while others tried to unload as many snowballs as possible. Matt Florence, 34, joined the fray for about an hour before taking refuge at a nearby park bench. The consultant had the day off from work and heard about the event on social media. We dont get this every year, so its a pretty special moment, he said, speaking of the heavy snow. You get to bring people together around something like this. Its a good time. Why are New York and Boston avoiding the storm? Folks may be wondering: Why isn't this winter storm roaring up the coast, also battering New York City and Boston with heavy snow and wind? Blame large-scale weather patterns for this storm track, which National Weather Service meteorologist Zack Taylor calls "not totally unusual." The current pattern is what meteorologists call "zonal," meaning weather systems move generally west-to-east across the country. That's what's happening with this storm, which dumped snow and ice in a nearly perfect 1,100-mile west-to-east swath from the central Plains to the Ohio Valley to the Mid-Atlantic on Sunday and Monday. Read more here. Doyle Rice This mega storm is sparing major cities like Boston, NYC. Here's why Intensity of snow and 'highway chaos' Governors in several states, including Arkansas, Kentucky, West Virginia and Virginia, declared states of emergency over the weekend as the storm headed east. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency for seven counties, while Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly declared a state of disaster. When it is snowing that fast a rate, despite the best efforts of road crews, it is difficult to keep up with the accumulation and keep roads clear of snow," AccuWeather chief meteorologist Jonathan Porter said. "We've seen similar situations in the past catch people off guard who aren't prepared for the impacts, leading to highway chaos including multiple-vehicle pileups and traffic jams, which have resulted in major interstates being shut down for hours." Storm to threaten South in coming days As snowfall began to wind down in the Mid-Atlantic Monday evening, forecasters warned about another winter storm that is expected to batter the South later this week. Snow, sleet, and freezing rain is forecast for the southern Plains to the Mid-South, along with unusually chilly temperatures. The weather service said light snow will begin in Texas on Wednesday before advancing into a larger storm on Thursday. While the weather service said it is unclear how much snow will fall, the wintry mix could create hazardous driving conditions late Wednesday through Friday. AccuWeather meteorologists warned the looming storm could wreak havoc in some major southern cities. In Dallas, AccuWeather said the storm could bring more than a years worth of snow, noting the Texas city's average annual snowfall is 1.6 inches. "The upcoming storm is forecast to bring at least two to three times that amount in hours from Wednesday night to Thursday night," said AccuWeather meteorologist Emma Belscher. For some in DC, a rare chance to hit the hills Since schools shuttered for the day, Jen Kane contacted parents in her son's third-grade class and coordinated a day of sledding at a park in northern D.C. Her sons, William Kane, 9, and Jack Kane, 5, for hours took turns riding down a small hill with their friends as their parents watched and cheered them on. Did you see me? William yelled to his mom after a particularly fast run to the bottom of the hill. I want you to push me down this time! The Kanes, who hail from Minnesota, are used to the snow, though they said its unusual to see so much in Washington. This is a lot for us, said Jen Kane, who has lived in the nation's capital for 20 years. Weve had a few dustings and I remember going sledding last year, but it wasn't like this. For others who rarely see snow, Monday was magical. Abi Ogundare brought her niece and nephew visiting from Southern California to a park in Washington so they could see snow for the first time in their lives. Near the entrance of Meridian Hill Park, the brother and sister marveled at the site of flurries and the layer of pristine white snow blanketing the field. They then patiently built a snowman as nearby families made snow angels and rode in sleds. I looked outside this morning and was like Oh, I have to bring them to the park said Ogundare, 27. You dont get snow like this in California. Storm 'a big one' in Washington In the Adams Morgan neighborhood of Washington, north of downtown and the White House, residents emerged early with shovels and sleds in hand. Grace Lowe, 30, took her dog Luna for a walk and stopped several times to take pictures of the black labrador, her tail wagging as she jumped about in fresh piles of snow. I knew we were expecting a lot today, but this is so much already, said Lowe, who has lived in the capital for five years. This is a big one! What are the road conditions and road closures? Snow was accumulating as far south as Virginia and Kentucky and as far north as central Pennsylvania, Ohio and New Jersey. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh can expect several inches. A coating of snow is even possible in New York City, with higher totals in the southern and western suburbs. Snow-packed roads led to widespread traffic closures and disruptions across multiple states from the central U.S. to the Mid-Atlantic region. The closures shut down roads in major cities such as Washington and Baltimore as well as heavily traveled highways, including I-29 in Missouri and I-65 in Indiana. Forecasters warned drivers from Missouri to Washington to stay off the roads because of snow and ice. Power outages reported from Midwest to the Mid-Atlantic By late Monday, the number of power outages began to decrease. More than 205,000 homes and businesses were without power in Missouri, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, West Virginia, and Virginia, according to a USA TODAY outage tracker. Over 33,000 outages were reported in Kentucky alone, down from the more than 65,000 outages earlier Monday. Kentucky Power said in a social media post that the company was monitoring and assessing the storm impacts. "Our crews are working hard to switch customers to different power sources where they can," the post said. "Hundreds of line techs, assessors and safety personnel are ready to tackle the restoration work ahead. We WILL get everyone's power on as soon as we can!" In Virginia, Dominion Energy spokesperson Aaron Ruby said the company has "deployed hundreds of crews and bucket trucks across Western, Central, Southside and Northern Virginia and were prepared to bring on additional crews as needed." More than 2 feet of snow in parts of Pennsylvania Residents of Erie County, Pennsylvania's northernmost county, would need at least a ruler to measure the depth of the lake-effect snow that Wednesday through Sunday. Some residents in east and south Erie County would need a yardstick. Unofficial measurements from National Weather Service in Cleveland partners show about a foot to more than 2 feet fell since the lake-effect snow warning went into effect New Year's Eve. Pennsylvania State Police are investigating a fatal crash involving a Transportation Department plow truck Saturday in Greenfield Township. According to state police, a 74-year-old man from Ripley, New York, was driving a 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee north on Route 89 as two PennDOT plow trucks were clearing the southbound lane. The lead plow truck hit a snow drift, and snow obscured the visibility of the second plow driver, state police reported Monday. The second plow driver applied the brakes and the truck and the Jeep collided, according to troopers. The 19-year-old male driver of the second plow truck was not injured, and a passenger in the Jeep had minor injuries, according to state police. Tim Hahn, Erie Times-News Snowfall record in Kentucky In Kentucky, several crashes snarled traffic on the city's highways and hundreds of calls for assistance were made to Louisville Emergency Services. State Police said Trooper Landon Key "is doing good" after a vehicle rear-ended his cruiser Sunday while he was working at a collision on Interstate 65 in Hart County, 70 miles south of Louisville. More than 7 inches of snowfall was recorded at the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport as the system moved through Sunday, setting a new one-day record for the date. The National Weather Service in Louisville predicted an additional 1-3 inches of snowfall could come Monday morning. Gov. Andy Beshear said crews were working to clear roads for utility crews and urged residents to "please stay safe at home." Meteorologists said the system is expected to taper off by Monday afternoon, but bitter cold temperatures were expected to last until the weekend. Marina Johnson, Leo Bertucci, and Keisha Rowe, Louisville Courier Journal Hundreds of flights canceled, delayed Over 11,000 U.S. flights had been delayed or canceled by late Monday, according to the FlightAware tracker. In Washington D.C, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport reported over 600 cancellations of flights scheduled to either arrive or depart from the domestic hub. Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport had nearly 300 cancellations. A temporary ground stop was in place at Chicago OHare International Airport early Monday before departures continued, though they were delayed by an average of 48 minutes, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. Amtrak canceled dozens of Monday trains, adding that the "adjustments have been made with no alternative transportation being offered." School closures abound amid powerful winter storm Hundreds of schools from Illinois to Washington, D.C., were forced to close on Monday, delaying for many the first day of school after winter break. In Washington, public schools were shuttered Monday as snow began piling up and temperatures dropped below freezing levels. School closures also delayed students' return to the classroom in Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Cincinnati Public Schools are closed Monday as snow is expected to continue into the beginning of the school week. In Springfield, Missouri, the school district canceled school Monday because of inclement weather and icy roads. In Kentucky, some Louisville-area schools canceled classes as the storm moved into the area, bringing a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain and hazardous road conditions. Kentucky State University also announced it would be closed Tuesday due to the weather. The school is located in the state capital of Frankfort, about 55 miles east of Louisville. Contributing: Thao Nguyen and Dinah Voyles Pulver, USA TODAY; Indianapolis Star; Cincinnati Enquirer This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Winter storm brings heavy snow and travel headaches across East Coast In an awards season where the race still seems to be fairly wide open, one film is gaining more traction than most as the finish line wobbles into view over the horizon. Emilia Perez wasnt talked about as an Oscar hopeful after it first bowed at the Cannes Film Festival, but eight months on and Jacques Audiards musical thriller about a Mexican cartel boss who undergoes gender affirmation surgery to live as a woman looks like its in pole position to land some major statuettes. More from Variety On Sunday, it won big at the Golden Globes, emerging ahead with four gongs, including best motion picture musical or comedy (over Cannes Palme dOr winner Anora, which was snubbed entirely), best supporting actress for Zoe Saldana, best motion picture non-English language and best original song. Just two days earlier, it was the top film out of the BAFTA longlists, with 15 slots across the various categories. The emergence of Emilia Perez as arguably the film to beat isnt just a testament to the feature itself, but Netflixs flair, foresight and finances, having splurged on a movie that appeared to have so many red flags that most major U.S. distributors steered clear. After buying the movie in Cannes for the U.S. and the U.K. in a deal worth approximately $12 million, the streamer is believed to have spent several times that amount on the campaign. But money is just one part of an equation to turn an underdog into a winner. Sure, Emilia Perez had won two prizes in the south of France (the jury prize for Audiard and best actress ensemble for Saldana, Karla Sofia Gascon, Selina Gomez and Adriana Paz), but a victory on the Croisette doesnt always translate in the U.S. awards race (as was seen with the Palme dOr winning Titane), especially when it touches on hot-button issues such as gender. Back in May, many saw Emilia Perez as a ticking time bomb. At a period in the industry when theres much concern around cultural appropriation and the need for authenticity in front of and behind the camera, Emilia Perez managed to triumph despite the fact that its director isnt trans, doesnt speak Spanish, shot the entire movie in France rather than Mexico (where it takes place) and did so with a cast of actresses who were chosen regardless of their nationalities (the main trio arent Mexican). So how did they pull it off? Netflix has managed to tell a story around the film one that both resonates in the film world and strikes a chord in our society about the power of sorority and redemption. While she didnt win best actress at the Golden Globes, Gascons turn as the notorious cartel leader Manitas who fakes her own death to live authentically as a trans woman has been the biggest asset behind the film, giving it a seal of authenticity. On the campaign trail, she emphasized how deeply personal the role of Perez felt to her as she shared her experience transitioning at the age of 46 and overcoming adversity to pursue her acting career. After the movie won best female ensemble at Cannes, Netflix followed a sorority strategy, opting to push forward Gascon with the supporting cast: Gomez, who plays Manitas tormented wife Jessi, and Saldana, who portrays Rita, a talented but overworked lawyer recruited by Perez to help her start a new life. The genuine chemistry between the actresses was palpable throughout the campaign. Even the bad buzz around Gomezs Spanish in the film, which was slammed by Mexican actor Eugenio Derbez (who later apologized), didnt catch on. But this isnt the only backlash Emilia Perez has faced, with there being a stark contrast between its awards domination and online discourse, where many continue to attack the film over a number of factors, most notably its representation of Latina women that many have deemed offensively stereotypical and the use of trans identity as a redemptive tool for a murderous criminal protagonist. For all the love among voting bodies, it may well be the most divisive film in the mix this year. Netflix did, however, look to navigate the film away from any political sensitivities. While Emilia Perez may seem inherently topical due to its trans protagonist, the streamers tactic during the presidential race was to encourage the films leading ladies to not make statements about current affairs. Its also notable that Netflix didnt try to conceal the fact that the movie shot entirely in France and was a fully French production. In spite of his limited English and introverted nature, Audiard who is one of Frances best known filmmakers, having won a Palme dOr with Dheepan in 2015 and an Oscar nom with A Prophet in 2010 has been campaigning non-stop for a movie that marks his big comeback after a couple films that mostly fell under the radar, including his English-language debut The Sisters Brothers starring Joaquin Phoenix and Jake Gyllenhaal, and most recently the sensual relationship drama Paris, 13th District. In a year that appears to celebrate European sensibility with The Substance, Im Still Here and Conclave among the contenders, it seems that Emilia Perezs French touch may have even boosted the movies appeal. It could also be the Paris Olympics halo. Golden Globes host Nikki Glaser best expressed that bias when she joked that she [didnt] even know what [she] was watching. Then someone goes, Its French. And I go, Oh, OK. This reminds me of the Paris opening ceremony. Of course, the Oscars is an entirely different beast than the Golden Globes, whose voting body is smaller and much more international than the Academy Awards. Anora may indeed find more love on home soil where it didnt from the Globes. But outside of the U.K., France represents the second biggest international contingent of AMPAS voters, which should certainly benefit Emilia Perez, as should the growing number of Hollywood figures who have vocalized their support. Whether part of a carefully orchestrated campaign or of their own volition, more famous faces have come forward to give Emilia Perez shout outs than any other major film this season. Denis Villeneuve in the running himself with Dune: Part Two named it one of his favorite movies of last year, while Guillermo del Toro, Michael Mann and James Cameron (who made Saldana one of the leads in his Avatar franchise) all praised the feature. As did Emily Blunt (a singular experience) and Meryl Streep (beautiful, smudged, sensual, incredible), alongside a growing lineup of big names including the likes of Madonna, Eva Longoria and America Ferrera. Its important to note that, while the Golden Globes is voted on by journalists, with the Oscars its industry peers and Emilia Perez already appears to have its fair share. Of course, there are still almost two months left to go and numerous more nominations announcements and ceremonies that should help fine tune the list of favorites ahead of the big day on March 2. But right now, a film that some considered too touchy to rally widespread support in the awards race when it first premiered is now one that few would bet against. See all Academy Award predictions Variety Awards Circuit: Oscars Best of Variety Sign up for Variety's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Jerusalem Gunmen opened fire Monday on a bus and other vehicles near a village in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, killing three people and wounding seven, the Israel Defense Forces and emergency services said. Violence in the West Bank has soared since the war in Gaza erupted on Oct. 7, 2023, after Hamas' terrorist attack on Israel. "Paramedics have confirmed the deaths of three victims, including two women and a man," emergency service provider Magen David Adom said. The IDF said troops were "pursuing the terrorists" who carried out the attack near the village of Al-Funduq. "We will reach the despicable murderers and hold them, as well as anyone who assisted them, accountable," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement from his office. "No one will be spared." Magen David Adom said its paramedics were providing treatment to seven people who were on the bus, including the driver, who was in serious condition. The two women killed in the shooting were in their 60s, while the man was around 40, MDA reported. Israeli security forces are seen near the location of a shooting attack targeting a bus and other vehicles near the village of al-Funduq, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, that left three people dead and seven wounded, according to the Israeli military, Jan. 6, 2025. / Credit: Reuters "This was a severe attack that spread across multiple scenes where vehicles and a bus were hit by gunfire," paramedic Avichai Ben Zruya said in a statement. "During our initial searches for casualties, we found two women around 60 years old in a vehicle, unconscious without pulse or breathing, with gunshot wounds." The military said troops had set up roadblocks and were encircling several nearby towns to apprehend the attackers. Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir said he had directed the military to "act with force" to find the attackers. "We will not tolerate a Gaza-like reality in Judea and Samaria (the West Bank), and anyone who follows Hamas' path in Gaza and enables or shelters the murder and harm of Jews will pay a heavy price," Ben Gvir said on X. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, another far-right member of the country's ruling coalition, also warned of harsh consequences in the wake of the attack. "Funduq, Nablus, and Jenin should look like Jabalia," he said in a statement, referring to a now-devastated town in northern Gaza, "so that (the central Israeli city) Kfar Saba doesn't, God forbid, become the next Gaza." Violence in the West Bank has surged since the start of the war in Gaza. Israeli troops or settlers have killed at least 818 Palestinians in the West Bank since the war began, according to the Ramallah-based health ministry. Palestinian attacks on Israelis have killed at least 25 people in the West Bank in the same period, according to Israeli official figures. The IDF has continued its intense operations in Gaza over the holiday period, drawing warnings from the United Nations and humanitarian groups specifically over raids targeting hospitals and camps for displaced civilians. Talks led by the U.S. and its partners in the region to broker a ceasefire in the war have repeatedly stoked optimism that a deal is imminent, but speaking Monday on a visit to South Korea, Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged that it may not be possible to nail down a truce agreement before the end of President Biden's term on Jan. 20. President-elect Donald Trump is expected to take a more sympathetic approach to the Israeli government in the war, which he's said he will end quickly, though he's offered no indication as to how he'll achieve the feat. Massive winter storm expected to bring heavy snow, ice, cold to 25 states How Oakland's Creative Growth enabled generations of artists Rise and shine with sunrise photographer Bugsy Sailor Annasofia Scheve covers trending news for the Express-News. She can be reached at Annasofia.Scheve@express-news.net. Annasofia has bachelor's degrees in journalism and political science from the University of Missouri. She is an Ohio native, and wrote for Cincinnati Magazine and the Cincinnati Enquirer before joining the Express-News in 2023. By Hyonhee Shin and Hyunsu Yim SEOUL (Reuters) -U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said a North Korean missile test carried out during his visit to Seoul on Monday was a reminder of the need to deepen Washington's cooperation with South Korea and Japan to deter an emboldened Pyongyang. North Korea fired what appeared to be an intermediate-range ballistic missile at around noon (0300 GMT), which flew more than 1,100 kilometres (690 miles) east before falling into the sea, according to South Korea's military. Speaking a few hours later, Blinken told a news conference the launch underscored the importance of collaboration between the U.S., South Korea and Japan, including on sharing real-time missile data and holding trilateral military exercises. "Today's launch is just a reminder to all of us of how important our collaborative work is," he said. Blinken also warned of Pyongyang's deepening ties with Moscow. He said Washington believed Russia intended to share space and satellite technology with North Korea in exchange for its support for the Ukraine war, in which more than 1,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded. President Joe Biden, who leaves office this month, made headway in deepening trilateral cooperation between the U.S. and South Korea and Japan, despite historic issues that have often plagued relations between the Asian neighbours. But political turmoil in South Korea, together with the imminent return of the unpredictable rule of Donald Trump in the United States, has raised questions over whether those efforts can be sustained. South Korean lawmakers last month voted to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol and suspend him from duties after his Dec. 3 declaration of martial law stunned the country. Yoon's impeachment trial is being heard by the Constitutional Court. If Yoon is permanently removed from office, a presidential election would be called and the liberals -- seen as likely to win that contest -- have been critical of Yoon's efforts to partner with Tokyo. Blinken, who also met on Monday with acting President Choi Sang-mok, told the news conference that while Washington had "serious concerns" about Yoon's actions, it had confidence in the country's institutions and democratic resilience. Monday's launch was Pyongyang's first since Nov. 5 when it fired at least seven short-range ballistic missiles. It was not immediately clear what type of missile was fired but North Korea's IRBM tests last year featured a new solid-fuel design and carried what Pyongyang said was a hypersonic glide vehicle, a warhead designed to be able to manoeuvre and evade missile defences. The North has said it is working to make its missiles of all ranges solid fuel. Solid-fuel missiles do not need to be fuelled immediately ahead of launch, are often easier and safer to operate, and require less logistical support, making them harder to detect and more survivable than liquid-fuel weapons. (Reporting by Jack Kim, Hyonhee Shin, Hyunsu Yim; Writing by John Geddie; Editing by Ed Davies, Christopher Cushing and Neil Fullick) By Maxim Rodionov and Lucy Papachristou (Reuters) - Russia said on Monday its forces had made important gains in eastern Ukraine while continuing to fend off a new Ukrainian offensive inside the Kursk region of western Russia, where a second day of fierce fighting was under way. The Russian defence ministry said its forces had captured the town of Kurakhove, 32 km (20 miles) south of Pokrovsk, a Ukrainian logistics hub towards which Russian forces have been advancing for months. The ministry said taking Kurakhove, which had held out for many weeks, would enable Moscow's forces to step up the pace of their advance in Ukraine's Donetsk region. It also said it had captured Dachenske, a settlement within five miles of Pokrovsk. Ukrainian monitoring group DeepState, which tracks the front line using open sources, showed most of Kurakhove under Russian control. Ukraine's Khortytsia group of forces said Russian forces continued to attack Kurakhove but Ukrainian forces were working to identify and repel Russian assault groups on that part of the front. Both sides are fighting to improve their battlefield positions before U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who has pledged to bring a quick end to the nearly three-year-old war, takes office on Jan. 20. Ukraine's main achievement in the past five months of fighting has been to capture and hold on to a slice of territory inside Russia's Kursk region that could provide it with an important bargaining chip in possible peace talks. Ukraine has not revealed details of the new offensive it launched in Kursk on Sunday, though a senior Ukrainian official has said Russia is "getting what it deserves". Russia's defence ministry said the attempted Ukrainian breakthrough had been foiled and the main Ukrainian force had been destroyed near the settlement of Berdin, close to a road running northeast towards the city of Kursk. A senior Russian commander said a further attack was expected. "Of course, this is not the end. Now we are recording a concentration of enemy equipment in another direction and naturally we understand that he (Ukraine) will try to strike in this direction. Right now I won't say where," said Major General Apti Alaudinov, commander of a Chechen unit fighting for Russia in Kursk. UKRAINIAN GAMBLE Independent military analyst Franz-Stefan Gady said Ukraine was trying to hold on to its pocket of Kursk for as long as possible, even as Russia continued to push deeper into eastern Ukraine. "There's a likelihood that we haven't seen the main thrust of this Ukrainian offensive operation just yet," he told Reuters. "We are essentially talking about platoon-sized, company-sized assaults with fairly limited gains thus far. It's fair to assume that there are several hundred Ukrainian troops involved in this assault." It remained to be seen if Kyiv's forces could open up another axis of advance, Gady added. Ukrainian and Western assessments suggest about 11,000 troops from Russian ally North Korea have been deployed in the Kursk region to support Moscow's forces. Russia has neither confirmed nor denied their presence. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Monday more than 1,000 North Korean troops had been killed or wounded. Reuters does not have access to the Kursk war zone and cannot verify casualty figures. Reacting to the new Ukrainian offensive, the United States, Britain and the European Union have reaffirmed their support for Kyiv. "Ukraine has the right to defend itself, and under international law, this right extends beyond its borders," EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said in a statement to Reuters. "Moscow's unlawful war against Ukraine has included numerous Russian attacks originating from the Kursk region. So Russian military forces there are legitimate targets under international law." A U.S. State Department spokesperson said on Sunday: "We are committed to putting Ukraine in the strongest possible position on the battlefield, including by surging security assistance and utilizing all available resources authorized by the Congress." Britain said it would support Ukraine for "as long as it takes". (Additional reporting by Anastasiia Malenko in Kyiv and Lili Bayer in Brussels, Kanishka Singh and Mrinmay Dey; Writing by Mark Trevelyan, Editing by Timothy Heritage) Nippon Steel, whose multibillion-dollar proposal to buy struggling US Steel was blocked by President Joe Biden last week, says it is considering taking legal action against the US government. We are considering this as an important option, Tadashi Imai, president of Nippon Steel, told reporters on Monday in televised remarks confirmed by CNN. I think we can take action, including announcing (a response), without taking too much time. On Friday, Biden said he was blocking the controversial $14.3 billion acquisition, marking a significant use of executive authority in the closing days of his administration. He cited the need to protect national security and supply chains. We are entitled to a proper review, Imai told journalists outside his home. The review process to date and the US governments decision is not a very proper review. Our company cannot allow this to continue, so we are considering all options for future action. The logo of Nippon Steel seen in front of the building that houses the Japanese steel company's headquarters in Tokyo on December 24, 2024 - Kyodo News/Getty Images The deal has been politically charged since it was announced more than a year ago, stirring bipartisan political opposition to foreign control of a once key component of US industrial might. The deal was not supported by the United Steelworkers (USW), the union representing American steel workers, which commended Bidens decision as the right move for our members and our national security. The USW said US Steels recent financial performance showed it could easily remain a strong and resilient company, USW International President David McCall said in a statement. But some feared the failure of the deal could starve US Steel of the investment it says it needs, and may also scare away foreign investment in other US companies. David Burritt, president and CEO of US Steel, called Bidens decision shameful and corrupt. In late December, the Committee for Foreign Investment in the United States, known colloquially as CFIUS, notified Biden that it had not reached a consensus on whether the US Steel sale to Nippon would pose a national security risk, leaving the decision up to the president. US Steel and Nippon have argued throughout the process that the deal is necessary to provide needed investment in US Steels domestic steel operations. US Steel has claimed it could be forced to shut down the mills represented by the USW if it doesnt get the $2.7 billion in investment planned by Nippon Steel as part of its proposed purchase. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine (R) signed a new measure into law earlier this week that permits police departments to charge the public to release camera footage from its officers including dash, body or surveillance video. No law enforcement agency should ever have to choose between diverting resources for officers on the street to move them to administrative tasks like lengthy video redaction reviews for which agencies receive no compensation and this is especially so for when the requestor of the video is a private company seeking to make money off of these videos, DeWine said in a statement shared with The Hill. The language in House Bill 315 is a workable compromise to balance the modern realities of preparing these public records and the cost it takes to prepare them, he added. The Republican governor compared the new legislation to the payments associated with duplicating public records while highlighting that the fee is not mandatory but up to the discretion of the agency. Governments will be allowed to charge as much as $75 an hour or a maximum total of $750 per request according to reports from local outlet News5 in Cleveland. If the language in House Bill 315 related to public records turns out to have unforeseen consequences, I will work with the General Assembly to amend the language to address such legitimate concerns, DeWine said. Despite the move, the governor said he supports the publics right to access public records. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Defense Secretary-designate Pete Hegseth and Attorney General pick Pam Bondi will be the first two cabinet nominees of President-elect Donald Trump to sit for confirmation hearings by Senate committees next week. Lawmakers will grill the 44-year-old Hegseth, who is expected to still have the requisite votes for confirmation, and Bondi, 59, before the Armed Services and Judiciary Committees, respectively, starting Jan. 14. Im enthused with her work as Attorney General of Florida and what shes done as a prosecutor, Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) told Fox Business Network Friday of Bondi. I think were going to find the Justice Department prosecuting and not being used as a political weapon against political enemies. Theres one thing that can speed up her nomination, and that is if the transition team that were working with of the new Trump administration would get the background investigations and the other paper particularly the ethics reports that we ought to have, Grassley added. We dont have any of that paper yet. I want to get it so I can schedule her hearing for the 14th. Hegseths hearing will also be held that day, an Armed Services Committee rep confirmed. Im enthused with her work as Attorney General of Florida and what shes done as a prosecutor, Sen. Chuck Grassley has said of Pam Bondi, President-elect Donald Trumps AG pick. WILL OLIVER/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Republicans can only lose four votes from their own conference before a nomination is in peril, given their 53-47 majority in the Senate. Senate leaders like Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) have called for confirmation of Trumps national security selections as soon as possible following the ISIS-inspired New Years Day terror attack in New Orleans that killed 14 people. Hegseth is likely to be the toughest of the Trump picks to be confirmed, though sources previously told The Post that zero Republicans are knives out for the former Fox News personality in private despite several expressing reservations publicly. Trump, 78, has stood by Hegseth despite concerns about his past alleged personal and professional misconduct including his tenure at two veterans advocacy groups where he was accused of mismanaging finances and binge drinking on the job. Trump, 78, has stood by Hegseth despite concerns about his alleged past personal and professional misconduct. Getty Images Several former senior employees including a trustee of one of the groups, Concerned Veterans for America categorically denied the allegations, which were put forward by anonymous whistleblowers, and threw cold water on claims that Hegseth was forced out of his position due to appalling conduct. Others who served at the front with the Army vet, who deployed to both Afghanistan and Iraq have spoken highly of his character. He breathes the military. Thats all he talks about, Sgt. Maj. Eric Geressy, who served alongside Hegseth in Iraq in 2005, told The Post in an interview last month. Petes extremely smart. Hes very articulate, hes a critical thinker, and hes going to learn from the experts and get a lot of good information from folks. Others who served on the frontlines with Hegseth, who deployed to both Afghanistan and Iraq, and have spoken highly of his character. Getty Images Hegseths lawyer has also called for the release of a file that could clear up sexual assault accusations from 2017 that have resurfaced against the defense nom, pointing to additional exonerating information held by a DAs office in California that looked into the matter. That file, attorney Tim Parlatore has told The Post, is believed to contain proof that the female accuser made similar allegations of sex assault against another man in a different jurisdiction that were unfounded. Another police file of the incident already includes details contradicting Hegseths accusers account. More than 110 former Justice Department officials who served in senior roles under Republican and Democratic presidents sent a letter Monday to the Senate Judiciary Committee urging Bondis swift confirmation. Nathan Posner/Shutterstock Bondi, who served two terms as Floridas attorney general from 2011 to 2019, is likely a shoo-in for her position, with one GOP aide referencing her impressive credentials and noting she was significantly qualified for this role. More than 110 former Justice Department officials who served in senior roles under Republican and Democratic presidents sent a letter Monday to the Senate Judiciary Committee urging Bondis swift confirmation. The Post obtained a copy of the letter, which was first reported by Fox News. As a career prosecutor, Attorney General Bondi will be ready from the first day on the job to fight on behalf of the American people to reduce crime, tackle the opioid crisis, back the women and men in blue, and restore credibility to the Department of Justice, the officials told Grassley and Senate Judiciary Committee ranking member Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) in the missive. Bondi, who served two terms as Floridas attorney general from 2011 to 2019, is likely a shoo-in for her position, with one GOP aide referencing her impressive credentials and noting she was significantly qualified for this role. Getty Images More recently, Bondi has worked at the Trump-aligned America First Policy Institute in Washington, DC, and was briefly on the former presidents legal defense team for his first impeachment trial in the Senate in 2020. On Jan. 7, the Senate will vote on a resolution authorizing various committees vetting the Trump nominations to hold hearings. The panels are usually required to give notice of a session one week in advance. After Bondi, Grassley anticipated that FBI Director-designate Kash Patel, who has received a warm welcome from Senate Republicans, will be the next nomination to come before the Judiciary Committee. Republicans can only lose four votes from their own conference before any Trump nominees confirmation is in peril, given their 53-47 majority in the Senate. AP Grassley said he looked very favorably on the 44-year-old FBI boss-in-waiting and expects Patel will be confirmed following Bondi. I expect him to make some big changes on the eighth floor of the Hoover building here in Washington, DC, Grassley told FBN host Larry Kudlow Friday, and have the FBI become a law enforcement agency and not the political weapon that its been. Agriculture Secretary nominee Brooke Rollins is also readying herself for a confirmation hearing to take place Jan. 15, Politico reported Monday, adding that former New York Rep. Lee Zeldins nomination to helm the Environmental Protection Agency will be considered sometime next week by the Senates Environment and Public Works panel. The Senate Agriculture Committee is looking forward to holding a hearing as soon as we can and aiming to do so before the inauguration, a panel spokesperson told The Post. Linda De Sousa Abreu, 30, was sentenced to 15 months in prison A prison officer filmed having sex with a burglar in his prison cell has been jailed for 15 months after admitting another incident with the same inmate on the same day. Linda De Sousa Abreu, 30, of Fulham, appeared in an explicit video filmed inside HMP Wandsworth prison in south London which went viral online last year. The prison officer, wearing full uniform, was filmed by another prisoner having sex with Linton Weirich, 36, in June, with what the judge described as evident enthusiasm. She was sentenced on Monday at Isleworth crown court to 15 months in prison, half of which will be served on licence, after admitting three separate sexual encounters with the convicted burglar. Abreu, an OnlyFans model who also appeared on a Channel 4 television series about swinging, previously pleaded guilty to misconduct in a public office. Linda De Sousa Abreu leaves Isleworth crown court last year after a plea hearing - Julian Simmonds Sentencing her, Judge Martin Edmunds KC, the Recorder of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, said a fellow prisoner, who was not named, filmed the tryst on an unauthorised phone while appearing to smoke cannabis. The recording lasts some four-and-a-half minutes, the judge said. You participated with evident enthusiasm. The second prisoner recorded events and provided a commentary by way of encouragement, including saying: Guys we made history, This is how we live at Wandsworth bruv, and You know you are a gangsta. Judge Edmunds said Abreu had also admitted two other sexual liaisons with Weirich, a convicted burglar, one of which was accidentally recorded on her bodyworn camera. One was performing oral sex on the same prisoner on a separate occasion on the same day, an event partly recorded, by accident, on your prison issued body worn camera, he said. The other was a previous occasion of sexual intercourse with the same prisoner. He added: They show that this offence was not isolated. It was part of repeated behaviour. It is not clear when the earliest offence occurred so I shall assume the repetition was within a few days. Linton Weirich, who appears in the video with De Sousa Abreu, was serving time in prison for burglary Judge Edmunds said Abreu knew that conduct was forbidden and forbidden for good reason and that it had put fellow officers at increased risk. It is inevitable that the damage for which you were responsible at Wandsworth has spread, to some degree, through the prison estate, he said. In a statement earlier read to the court, Andrew Davy, the governor of HMP Wandsworth, said her actions had undone years of efforts to increase male prisoners respect for female officers. It has taken many years for female staff to be respected and treated professionally in a male dominated environment, he said. The action of this defendant has undone years of positive and rewarding prisoner interactions in less than a day. Rajiv Menon KC, representing Abreu, told the court she accepted full responsibility for her actions. Linda De Sousa Abreu is an OnlyFans model. Right, pictured after her arrest He asked that her sentence be reduced, citing a psychiatric report that found she had a severe personality disorder that combined with ADHD made her a highly impulsive and reckless person who tends to act without considering the consequences. (The doctor) then concludes that Ms Abreu is a highly emotional, damaged individual who over the years has increasingly used sex as a means to feel positive emotions, he told the court. We submit on her behalf that the mental disorder should in all fairness significantly reduce her culpability in this case. Abreu was close to tears as Judge Edmunds sentenced her. The sentence on you is one of 15 months imprisonment, he said. Of that you will serve half in custody, unless the prison authorities decide to release you earlier. The remainder you will serve on licence. You have been subject to a qualifying curfew for 190 days and that entitles you to a credit of 95 days against that sentence. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. WASHINGTON Enrique Tarrio, the former Proud Boys chairman who is serving 22 years in federal prison after he was convicted of seditious conspiracy in relation to the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack, is asking President-elect Donald Trump for a presidential pardon. Nayib Hassan, Tarrios lawyer, wrote a letter to Trump on the fourth anniversary of the Jan. 6 attack asking for a full and complete Presidential Pardon from Trump, who has vowed to pardon some rioters after he takes office on Jan. 20. In the letter, Hassan called Tarrio, 42, a young man with an aspiring future ahead of him who was portrayed throughout the Governments case as a right-wing extremist that promoted a neo-fascist militant organization, when, Hassan claimed, Tarrio is "nothing more than a proud American that believes in true conservative values. Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio wears a hat that says "The War Boys" at a rally in Portland, Ore., on Sept. 26, 2020. Tarrio was one of four members of the far-right Proud Boys group found guilty of seditious conspiracy in May 2023. He was given 22 years in prison, the longest Jan. 6 sentence to date, though he was not in Washington for the attack itself. He had been arrested and ordered to stay away from the capital and was convicted of planning and organizing Proud Boys members to assault the Capitol in the lead-up to Jan. 6. Attorney General Merrick Garland said after their sentencing that Tarrio and his fellow Proud Boys played a "central role" in leading the Jan. 6 mob to breach the Capitol. At Tarrio's trial, Hassan had blamed Trump for his client's and other Proud Boys' actions, reminding jurors that Trump said his supporters should fight like hell or they were not going to have a country anymore. He also argued that Trumps telling the Proud Boys to stand back and stand by at a 2020 presidential debate brought so much attention to the group that vetting became difficult." Tarrio was arrested in connection with a separate event the December 2020 burning of a Black Lives Matter banner just before the Jan. 6 attack. The top intelligence official in the Washington, D.C., Police Department was convicted two weeks ago of leaking information to Tarrio, telling him just before Jan. 6, 2021, that there was a warrant out in Washington for his arrest. As a result, Tarrio watched Jan. 6 unfold from, Hassan said at trial, a hotel in Baltimore. More than 1,580 defendants have been charged and 1,270 have been convicted in connection with the Jan. 6 attack. Trump has not given specifics about how many or what categories of defendants he plans to pardon. In a interview last month on NBC News' "Meet the Press," he did not rule out pardoning rioters who assaulted law enforcement officers. Trump's transition team did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Tarrio's request for a pardon. BALTIMORE -- American rapper Lupe Fiasco will serve as a distinguished visiting professor at Johns Hopkins University, Peabody Institute in Fall 2025, the university said Friday. Fiasco will teach rap as part of the institute's new 4-year hip hop degree program, led by professor and musical artist Wendel Patrick. "The new Bachelor of Music in Hip Hop will combine the resources and strengths of Peabody's industry leading Music Engineering and Technology programs with the Conservatory's long history of excellence in performance training," the institute wrote in a program description. Fiasco is a Grammy Award-winning rapper, songwriter, and producer. He entered the hip-hop realm with his debut album, "Food & Liquor," in 2006. Fiasco became known for his storytelling, lyricism, and socially conscious music. He later won a Grammy Award for hits, "Superstar" and "Daydreamin'." "The @peabodyinstitute is one of the oldest music conservatories in America. World renowned for its rigorous training and for producing some of the world's greatest musicians, and I'm honored to contribute to this legacy doing what I love most, Rap," Fiasco wrote in a social media post. Fiasco also served as a visiting professor and scholar at MIT. In Fall 2021, he led a programming competition for language and rhythm alongside Nick Montfort, a professor of digital media in MIT's Comparative Media Studies and Writing program. According to the institute's website, he later returned for more collaborations during the 2022-2023 academic year. Massive winter storm expected to bring heavy snow, ice, cold to 25 states How Oakland's Creative Growth enabled generations of artists Rise and shine with sunrise photographer Bugsy Sailor The judge said Rudy Giuliani "willfully violated an unambiguous order of the court." A federal judge in New York has found former Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani in contempt of court for not complying with orders to turn over information about his assets to a pair of former Georgia election workers he defamed. U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman made the contempt finding Monday afternoon after Giuliani testified over two days to answer questions about why hed failed to hand over assets and court-ordered discovery information to help satisfy Ruby Freeman and Wandrea Shaye Moss $146 million defamation judgment against him. Giuliani, the former New York mayor and U.S. attorney, "willfully violated an unambiguous order of the court" by failing to provide information when he was supposed to, Liman said. "The defendant has attempted to run the clock by stalling," he said. "Discovery is not supposed to be a shell game where the hidden ball is moved around and around," he added. He said he'd rule on "appropriate sanctions" against Giuliani later. Giuliani testified remotely earlier in the day from his Florida home, telling his lawyer Joseph Cammarata that he had tried to comply with court orders in the case and blaming earlier failures to do so on his previous attorney. He also complained that he has had difficulty juggling his various court cases, including two criminal cases and two other defamation suits related to his attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 election. "Some days it is completely impossible because there are conflicting demands for material and appearances on the same day," Giuliani said. He also said he had found some key documents that Freeman and Moss had been waiting for the proprietary lease for his multimillion-dollar Manhattan apartment and the title for his Mercedes-Benz convertible. Both documents, however, include his divorced wife on the titles and need to be amended before Freeman and Moss' attorneys can use them. Freeman and Moss had asked the judge to find Giuliani in civil contempt for failing to turn over information and to surrender numerous valuable assets including a New York Yankees jersey autographed by Hall of Fame outfielder Joe DiMaggio to pay down the $146 million judgment. The pair were awarded the sum in their defamation lawsuit against Giuliani, who they said had spread falsities about Trumps election loss in 2020 resulting in an onslaught of racist and violent threats against them. Their attorneys had urged Liman in a court filing to apply appropriate sanctions to prompt Giulianis compliance with court orders after he repeatedly ran afoul of deadlines to turn over assets and financial data. Giuliani said Friday that the DiMaggio jersey was missing and denied an assertion made by a friend, Monsignor Alan Placa, that he had seen it framed in Giulianis property in Palm Beach, Florida, within the past two years. On Monday, Giuliani said he's still searching for the jersey. "I don't know where it is, and it is hard to re-create who took it, and I am personally conducting my own investigation about this," he said. Testifying in court Friday, Giuliani denied having withheld other Yankees memorabilia, saying he wasnt hiding a signed image of Reggie Jackson, another Hall of Famer, that the election workers attorney said was listed as an asset in a bankruptcy document. Lawyers for Freeman and Moss have argued that Giuliani had demonstrated a consistent pattern of willful defiance of the Courts Turnover Orders, and they cited his failure to surrender the proprietary lease and co-op shares to the estimated $6 million Manhattan apartment, cash in his bank account and the title document for his Mercedes, which used to belong to Hollywood icon Lauren Bacall. Ted Goodman, a spokesperson for Giuliani, said in a statement, It's tragic to watch as our justice system has been turned into a total mockery, where we have charades instead of actual hearings and trials. A trial will be held in the New York case on Jan. 16, to determine the status of Giuliani's Florida condo and possession of his Yankees World Series rings, which he says he gifted to his son years ago. Giuliani is also facing a second contempt proceeding in Washington, D.C., this week over whether he should face sanctions for continuing to defame Freeman and Moss on his livestreamed Americas Mayor Live show in defiance of a court-ordered agreement. Former US President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump attends his criminal trial at Manhattan Criminal Court in New York City, on May 30, 2024. (Justin Lane/Pool/AFP/Getty Images) Judge Juan Merchan has denied Donald Trumps request to postpone his Friday sentencing for his hush money conviction, the judge said in a filing Monday. Trumps lawyers are likely to appeal Merchans decision to a New York appeals court. Earlier Monday, Trumps lawyers filed an appeal urging a New York appellate court to overturn Merchans two recent rulings that upheld his conviction in the hush money case, while separately urging the judge to postpone Trumps sentencing while he appeals. Trumps legal maneuvers come on the same day that he was certified as the winner of the 2024 presidential election and four years since he tried to overturn his election loss and his supporters rioted at the US Capitol. Last week, Merchan rejected Trumps attempt to throw out his conviction because hes been elected president, scheduling Trumps sentencing in the hush money case for Friday though Merchan made clear he would not sentence him to any jail time. Trumps lawyers argued that the sentencing must be put on hold while his appeals play out. The Court should vacate the sentencing hearing scheduled for January 10, 2025, and suspend all further deadlines in the case until President Trumps immunity appeals are fully and finally resolved, which should result in a dismissal of this case, which should have never been brought in the first place, Trumps filing states. The Manhattan district attorneys office urged Merchan to deny Trumps request to postpone his sentencing, according to a filing sent to the judge. Defendant will suffer no prejudice from the conclusion of criminal proceedings in the trial court given the Courts intended sentence of an unconditional discharge and defendants decision to appear for sentencing virtually instead of in personindeed, entry of judgment is necessary to allow the appeal defendant has repeatedly stated he will pursue, prosecutors wrote in the filing. And the current schedule is entirely a function of defendants repeated requests to adjourn a sentencing date that was originally set for July 11, 2024; he should not now be heard to complain of harm from delays he caused, prosecutors added. On Monday afternoon, Trumps attorneys filed an appeal with a New York appellate court seeking to overturn Merchans rulings that upheld Trumps conviction. Trumps lawyers did not ask the appeals court to intervene in the sentencing though they could take that step if Merchan moves forward with his plans to sentence Trump Friday. Justice Merchans erroneous decisions threaten the institution of the Presidency and run squarely against established precedent disallowing any criminal process against a President-Elect, as well as prohibiting the use of evidence of a Presidents official acts against him in a criminal proceeding, Trumps attorneys wrote in the filing with the appeals court Monday. Trump was convicted in May on 34 counts of falsifying business records over payments to his then-lawyer Michael Cohen to reimburse a $130,000 hush money payment made to adult-film star Stormy Daniels, in order to keep her from speaking out about an alleged affair before the 2016 election. (Trump has denied the affair.) Trump was initially set to be sentenced in the case in July, but that was delayed until after the election in light of the Supreme Courts ruling on presidential immunity. Last month, however, Merchan rejected Trumps attempt to dismiss the case on the basis of presidential immunity. This story has been updated with additional developments. CNNs Lauren del Valle and Nicki Brown contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Elizabeth L. T. Moore is a Hearst Fellow in San Antonio. She can be reached at Elizabeth.Moore@hearst.com Elizabeth did her first fellowship year as a reporter with the New Haven Register in Connecticut. Moore has published bylines with Bloomberg News, The Virginian-Pilot and The Daily Tar Heel, the student newspaper of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Moore placed nationally in the Hearst Collegiate Journalism Program, and she is fluent in Spanish. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met with President-elect Donald Trump (center), accompanied by Sen. Marco Rubio (right) and Rep. Michael Waltz (left) at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, on Saturday. (Italian Government/Reuters) US President-elect Donald Trump hailed Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni as a fantastic woman as she became the latest world leader to visit his Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Florida. This is very exciting, he told a crowd at the residence. Im here with a fantastic woman, the prime minister of Italy. Shes really taken Europe by storm. Meloni, a member of the right-wing Brothers of Italy party, took office in October 2022 and is known to have ties to the incoming Trump administration, in particular with his ally Elon Musk. While European powerhouses France and Germany are going through a period of rocky politics, the stability of her coalition in Italy and conservative credentials make her a natural ally for the incoming US leader. Trump and Meloni were joined by the formers nominees for secretary of state and national security advisor Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Florida) and Rep. Mike Waltz (R-Florida). Meloni posted a picture of herself standing next to Trump on X, with the words: lovely evening with @realDonaldTrump whom I thank for the welcome ready to work together. No details have been given about what was discussed, although the Italian leader, like others, has been seeking to strengthen ties with the President-elect ahead of his inauguration on January 20. CNN has approached Melonis office and the Trump transition team for comment. A possible topic on the agenda is the detention of Italian journalist Cecilia Sala, who was arrested in Iran last month. Italys foreign ministry confirmed in a statement last Friday that Sala, a reporter for Italian daily Il Foglio, was detained in Tehran. Iranian state news agency IRNA said Monday that Sala had been detained on December 19 after violating the laws of the Islamic republic of Iran. Salas detention has caused a diplomatic headache for Italy, with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani saying his government was working tirelessly to bring her home. In a sign of the burgeoning relationship between Italys leader and Trumps camp, Andrea Stroppa, a cybersecurity expert and ally of Elon Musk based in Rome, posted on X a fake, AI image of Meloni standing alongside Trump and Musk. All three are dressed in clothes reminiscent of the Roman Empire. Meloni will also meet with President Joe Biden during the latters trip to Rome this week. Biden will thank her for her strong leadership of the G7 over the past year, and discuss important challenges facing the world, a White House press statement last month said. Her visit to Florida comes after she dined with Trump and Musk during the reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris last month, an experience Trump later told the New York Post was positive. Trump and Meloni, while politically similar, dont necessarily align on all the worlds most pressing conflicts. Meloni has been one of Ukraines strongest backers, having met with President Volodymyr Zelensky a dozen times since Russias invasion. Meanwhile Musk and Meloni forged their strong friendship in the summer of 2023, and the Tesla founder headlined Melonis Brothers of Italy political convention, Atreju, in December last year. Argentinas libertarian President Javier Milei was the first world leader to meet Trump at Mar-a-Lago after his re-election. Other visitors have included Hungarys Victor Orban and Canadas Justin Trudeau. CNNs DJ Judd contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Waved albatrosses performing a mating ritual Jose Rui Santos/Shutterstock.com Watch the Video Click here to watch on YouTube Some species of male birds dance to impress their mates, such as the complicated dance routine of the little red-capped manakin or the flashy display of the male peacock. In other species, the males and females dance together, like the synchronized group dance of the flamingo. The Galapagos albatross is one of those species where the males and females dance together, however, unlike the flamingo group dance, this dance is a unique courtship ritual between the two mates. If you travel to the Galapagos Islands at the right time of year, you may be lucky enough to witness the mating ritual of the Galapagos albatross. As seen in the video above, this involves an intricate dance performed by the male and female pair. The performance includes a lot of bill clacking, head swaying, and other synchronized moves. More than just a fun time for the birds, this dance lets them know if they have found a compatible mate. The Galapagos albatross mates and nests in only one place on Earth. Don Mammoser/Shutterstock.com Where Do Galapagos Albatrosses Live? Who has the largest wingspan in the Galapagos Islands, mates for life, and can safely drink saltwater? That would be the Galapagos albatross, also known as the waved albatross. These large birds live nine months out of the year from April to December on the Galapagos Island of Espanola where they mate, breed, and raise their young. Though they look clumsy on land, when they take to the air they are elegant and strong fliers. When the Galapagos albatrosses arent on Espanola Island, they head to the open ocean to feed on fish, squid, and crustaceans. From January to March, they can be spotted mainly to the east of the Galapagos and along the coasts of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. What is the Unusual Galapagos Albatross Courtship Dance? The Galapagos albatross mating ritual is a remarkable sight to witness. Tourists plan trips to Espanola Island with the hope of spotting the birds performing the elaborate dance. It all begins with the first males that arrive on the coast. The males reach the island before the females arrive and wait hopefully for their potential mates. Once the females start to show up, the rituals begin. Watching the birds dance, one can see its a cooperative endeavor. One bird leads and the other must follow. Sometimes the birds quickly tap their beaks together making a loud, hollow sound. Other times one will throw its head straight up into the air, stretching its neck and making a loud call. The calls range from hooting to honking to whistling. There is also head nodding and swaying their long necks from side to side. The more practice theyve had together, the faster the dance moves get. During mating season, the breeding grounds can be a loud place with courtship dances occurring around the island including bill clacking and the noisy calls of multiple mating pairs. The Galapagos Albatross Mates for Life These birds are monogamous and mate for life. They may spend a few months out to sea apart, but they come back to the same place every year to breed and nest. Its not only new mating pairs that dance together, its also mates that have been separated for the past few months and are reuniting. The dance is a way to form new bonds, and also strengthen existing bonds. The birds will continue to dance after the chicks hatch. By watching their parents, the chicks learn what will someday be expected of them when they are adults. Both Parents Care For Their Young After mating, the birds build a nest on the ground. The female lays one egg and both parents incubate the egg. After the chick hatches, it goes to live in a nursery with other chicks. The entire colony assists in caring for the young when the parents head to sea to hunt for food. Once they are around six months old, the chicks are ready to fly on their own and head to sea. They wont return with the others the next year to mate on the island. Instead, the young birds will stay out to sea for several years before returning home to find their own mate to dance with. Are Galapagos Albatross Endangered? The Galapagos albatross is critically endangered with a declining population. Today, there are estimated to be around 50,000 to 70,000 individuals in the species. The biggest threat to these fascinating birds comes from human activity. A fishing practice called long lining, in which a net is strewn for hundreds of miles with baited hooks can be deadly for the birds. The birds, attracted to the bait, get caught in the net and dragged under. Long lining is banned in the Galapagos Marine Reserve (GMR), but long lining is still done outside of the area. The birds also return each year to the same breeding grounds to nest. This makes them vulnerable to vegetation overgrowth, which covers the rocks where they breed. And because they only have one egg per year, it can take a long time to replenish the population. Watch the Video Click here to watch the video. The post The Unusual Galapagos Albatross Courtship Dance appeared first on A-Z Animals. Wealthy travelers are increasingly booking luxury train vacations. Roberto Sorin/Shutterstock Wealthy travelers are increasingly booking luxury train vacations. High-end suites often include amenities like bottomless Champagne, butlers, and private bathrooms. A night on Belmond's iconic Venice Simplon-Orient Express starts at about $4,370 per person. Vintage luxury is making a comeback. Not just with clothes, but with a particularly beloved mode of transit trains. Set to debut in April, Italy's La Dolce Vita Orient Express would offer guests luxuries like a stylish lounge, Champagne buckets from Giobagnara (which can command more than $500 each), and meals curated by the chef of Rome's three-Michelin-starred La Pergola. Expect dishes like calamari carpaccio and lamb with artichoke and truffle shavings for lunch, no less. Orient Express's La Dolce Vita trains, shown in a render, would launch in April 2025. Courtesy of Orient Express Italy "It's all a bit pricey, but we're determined to put all the finest stuff made in Italy on board this train," Samy Ghachem, the coming train's general manager, told Business Insider. La Dolce Vita Orient Express is not to be confused with Belmond's iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, best known for its sumptuously restored century-old carriages. Both trains are helping lay the tracks for a revitalized rail renaissance characterized by surging demand and increasingly high-end amenities. Luxury train bookings are going loco-motive Glacier Express' Excellence Class guests have amenities like an exclusive bar, a five-course meal, and window seats. Glacier Express Train-focused tour company Railbookers had been experiencing double-digital growth before 2020. However, after the pandemic and the subsequent boom in "slow travel," popularity started going express. Frank Marini, president and CEO of Railbookers Group, told BI that 2023 and 2024 have consecutively been the company's best-performing years, with no signs of slowing down. During this period, Railbookers also saw a 68% spike in luxury-level bookings. "It keeps snowballing," Marini said. "We see passengers that have come back traveling with us on a lot of luxury rail, and they're like, 'well, where else is there luxury rail?'" Rocky Mountaineer's GoldLeaf-level travelers have upgrades like a two-level coach with a glass dome. Rocky Mountaineer Unlike bus tours or flights, the vacation experience doesn't begin when you arrive at your destination. Instead, like cruises, it starts when passengers board. And unlike their at-sea counterparts, trains are one of the most eco-friendly ways to travel. Plus, the amenities can be as lavish as a five-star hotel. Guests traveling Canadian Via Rail's Prestige Class have enhancements like a butler and a private bathroom with heated floors. Gold-level US and Canada's Rocky Mountaineer travelers get a dining room, an open-air viewing platform, and glass dome lounges. On Belmond's Andean Explorer, based in Peru, suite guests slumber in 141-square-foot bedrooms with private bathrooms and lounges. Suites on the Andean Explorer include a double bed, wardrobe, and private bathroom. Courtesy of Belmond Such luxury comes at a cost, of course. Andrew Channell, Railbookers Group's senior vice president of product and operation, estimates a typical multi-day luxury train trip, but not of the highest-end tier, could cost around $3,000 per person and day. And then there's the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient Express, where a one-night journey from Venice, Italy, to Paris starts at about $4,370 per person for a basic cabin with a shared bathroom. The train's most luxurious Grand Suites come with a private restroom (plus upgrades like bottomless bubbles) for about four times the cost. They are, after all, a "rich and famous-type bucket list item," Julie Durso, a travel manager for agency Scott Dunn Private, told BI. Venice-Simplon Orient Express' six Grand Suites are themed after different cities on the route. The Venice, Italy-themed cabin has elements of Italian Baroque and Renaissance design. Belmond Gary Franklin, Belmond's senior vice president of trains and cruises, told BI that reservations for the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express spiked 10% from 2023 to 2024. The Grand Suites are often the first accommodations to be booked. To adapt to this swell in demand, the train which only accommodates about 100 passengers now operates a longer season than before the COVID-19 pandemic. "The popularity of train travel is seeing a renaissance," Franklin said, adding that bookings for Belmond's five soon to be six other trains also increased. This includes a 25% boost for the Royal Scotsman, which was almost fully booked through 2024. (A two-night roundtrip Edinburgh, Scotland journey on the high-end locomotive starts at about $5,940 per person.) Full steam ahead on luxury Venice Simplon-Orient Express' Istanbul-themed Grand Suite has plush embroidered rugs and interiors that remind of the Grand Bazaar in Turkey. Courtesy of Belmond Popular commercial travel companies, like airlines and cruise lines, often offer cheap, low-tier options to capture more guests. Think interior cabins on cruises and basic economy seats on airlines. Belmond is taking the opposite approach by enticing wealthy travelers with increasingly luxurious add-ons. In 2024, the company introduced two Grand Suites to the 40-year-old Royal Scotsman. The addition was "exceptionally well-received," Franklin said so much so that Belmond plans to add more in 2025. The train had previously been updated in 2023 with a Dior-branded spa carriage, now also available on the recently relaunched Eastern and Oriental Express. "We all lead these very frenetic lives," Franklin said. "This is an opportunity to slow down, look out the window at the incredible scenery, and come together with fellow travelers in a nice luxurious environment with great food and beverage." Belmond's relaunched the Eastern and Oriental Express in Malaysia in 2024. The high-end train includes amenities like a Dior spa. Belmond Not everyone can afford to spend thousands of dollars for a night on Belmond's trains. However, the financial barrier isn't deterring travelers from their luxury vacation dreams. According to Marini, all of Railbooker's conventional train bookings now include some touch of extravagance, such as a cabin upgrade, a night's stay at a high-end hotel, or an exclusive excursion. This "little luxuries" trend, as he calls it, only started a few years ago. Or, if you're rail-y in the mood to splurge, you could request Belmond's new L'Observatoire suite. The skylight-lit moving hotel room spans the entire carriage hidden tearoom and marble bathroom with a tub included all for about $101,515 a night. Sounds pretty train-quil, doesn't it? Read the original article on Business Insider GoFundMe Heather Bodden A South Dakota man is facing murder and manslaughter charges after police say he killed a woman and decapitated her. According to court documents obtained by PEOPLE, Craig Allen Nichols Jr., 32, was arrested in Yankton, S.D. located southwest of Sioux Falls after three women called police to report that they had found their friend with her head cut off in her apartment on Thursday, Jan. 2. South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley confirmed in a press release that the woman was identified as 41-year-old Heather Ann Bodden. According to the court documents, Yankton police responded to a call at around 3:30 p.m. local time on Thursday, and after speaking with the three women, they "made entrance to the apartment and observed what appeared to be a deceased headless person." One of the women told police that Bodden had told her over text message on Jan. 1 that her boyfriend, Nichols, had been threatening her with a weapon that afternoon, per the court documents. She added that she had not heard from Bodden for more than 24 hours, and the women decided to meet up at Bodden's apartment to check on her. GoogleMaps The apartment complex in Yankton, S.D., where Heather Ann Bodden lived. Security camera footage of Bodden's apartment complex obtained by police showed three men, one of whom was identified as Nichols, arriving at Bodden's apartment around 10 p.m. on Wednesday night. The two other men referred to in court documents only by their initials, CE and CR later told police during an interview that the group of four "participated in the use of narcotics," and that Bodden was alive when they left the home. The two unidentified men were seen leaving the apartment at around 11:00 p.m., police said in the court documents, and Nichols was later seen leaving and coming back to the apartment several times, carrying two trash bags out of the building, between 2:50 a.m. and around 6:45 a.m. on Thursday morning. Police eventually searched Bodden's apartment, finding a trash bag with her head, a bag of bloody clothing labeled as belonging to Nichols and three weapons wrapped in a floor mat, per the court documents. Investigators also found shoes with a "reddish brown substance on them" inside Nichols' apartment, and the court documents state that Nichols declined to give blood and urine samples at the local hospital after he was arrested. Nichols is now facing second-degree murder and first-degree manslaughter charges and two counts of contempt of court. The Yankton Police Department and Yankton County Sheriff's Office are still investigating the incident, they jointly said in a press release shared on Facebook. Court records show that Nichols is next due in court on Jan. 8. 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. Bodden's family later opened up about her death in a GoFundMe page set up to raise money for her funeral expenses and to help care for her daughter. "Heather Bodden was tragically and brutally taken from us by someone who claimed to care about her," her sister-in-law wrote on the GoFundMe page, which has received over $5,000 of its $15,000 goal as of Sunday, Jan. 5. "Heather was a bright spark in this world. Her friends and family loved her quick wit, as she was always ready with a joke or snappy comeback," the statement continued. "She loved her daughter Lily to the ends of the earth and her mom, Pat, was her best friend in the world. Pat and Heather's stepdad, Sherman, will be caring for Lily." According to the page, Bodden is survived by her parents, daughter, seven siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins and "many more family and friends who loved her dearly." If you are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or go to thehotline.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages. Read the original article on People A woman that Guinness World Records previously named as the worlds oldest person has died, the organization announced Saturday. The worlds oldest person, Tomiko Itooka of Japan, died the night of Dec. 29. She died from natural causes and lived to be 116 years and 220 days old. She died at a nursing home in Ashiya, Hyogo Prefecture in Japan, Guinness said in a news release, citing LongeviQuest, an organization that manages a database on the worlds oldest people. Tomiko was named the oldest living woman and oldest living person in August 2024 after the previous titleholder, 117-year-old Maria Branyas Morera, died. Tomiko Itooka (right) on Sept. 16, 2024 in Ashiya City, Japan. LongeviQuest representatives visited her on her 116th birthday, then again in August 2024 to present her the Worlds Oldest Person trophy. Guinness representatives also visited her in September to present her with an official certificate. Who was Tomiko Itooka, the late record-setter? Tomiko was born in Osaka on May 23, 1908. She was the second of three children and the familys oldest daughter, Guinness and LongeviQuest reported. She went to an all-girls high school. She got married at 20 years old and had two daughters and two sons, Guinness said. She was 32 years old when Japan joined World War II and during that time, she managed the office at her husbands textile factory while taking care of the couples children. Tomikos family thinks her long lifespan was due in part to how active she was. According to Guinness, after Tomikos husband died in 1979, she spent her time hiking and climbing. One of her favorite pastimes was climbing Mount Nijo. She also climbed Mount Ontake, which is over 1,000 feet high. Tomiko practiced Buddhism and in her eighties, completed the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, traveling to 33 temples in the Kansai region. Once she reached 100 years old, she was able to climb the stone steps of Ashiya Shrine, no walking stick needed, Guinness reported. Tomiko Itooka (center) on Sept. 16, 2024 in Ashiya City, Japan. Other facts Guinness World Records and Gerontology Research Group have released about Tomiko over the years include: She really liked bananas She started each morning with a milky drink She was a volleyball player in high school She lived alone for a decade Setting records later in life And it wasnt just Guinness that recognized Tomiko for her long life. In September of 2020, she was named the third-oldest living person in Hyogo Prefecture. She became the oldest living person in the prefecture on April 30, 2022, and the next year, she became the oldest living person in Japan. Tomikos age was validated by a Los-Angeles based nonprofit called the Gerontology Research Group, GRG. In May 2018, she was named a supercentenarian, or someone who has reached 110 years old, according to GRG. Tomikos passing has left Brazils Inah Canabarro Lucas, aged 116, as the worlds oldest living person, LongeviQuest confirmed on its website. Tomiko has also passed the title of Japans oldest living to Okagi Hayashi. Tomiko is survived by a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Guinness said. LongeviQuest sends our deepest condolences to the bereaved family and friends of Tomiko Itooka, the agency wrote. Contributing: Taylor Ardrey, USA TODAY Saleen Martin is a reporter on USA TODAY's NOW team. She is from Norfolk, Virginia the 757. Follow her on Twitter at @SaleenMartin or email her at sdmartin@usatoday.com. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Tomiko Itooka, 116-year-old Guinness World Records winner, dies Todayfrom St Peter's Basilica, marking the Solemnity of the Epiphany, Francis spoke of the star. The three kings follow another kind of light: that of love, not of power. Let the journey to Bethlehem be an example to be light for others. At the Angelus the Christmas greeting to the Churches of the East. Vatican City (AsiaNews) - The Magi testified that they had set out in a different direction in their lives because they had seen a new light in the sky. Let us pause to reflect on this image as we celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord during this Jubilee of hope. The search, a light as a guide, change. These are elements that, as Pope Francis emphasised this morning during the homily of the Mass in St Peter's Basilica, still challenge the whole of humanity. They represent the journey of the Magi from the East to Jerusalem narrated in Matthew's Gospel (Mt 2:1-12): the encounter with the king of the Jews (v. 2), the very great joy (v. 10) felt at seeing the star and, finally, the return home by another road (v. 12). Today, Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord, but also Holy Christmas for the Armenian Apostolic Church and Christmas Eve for the communities of the East, the comet star symbolises another kind of light. Not the one supposedly emanating from rulers, which symbolises power and fame. Not of this nature the one that showed the Magi the way to Bethlehem. But a light that illuminates and warms by burning and being consumed: that of love. The only light that can show everyone the way to salvation and happiness, Bergoglio said. The only light that will make us happy. And which represents the love of God made man and that with which we too are called to spend ourselves for one another. Which indicates, he added, a sign of hope even in the dark nights of life. A love that is closeness, compassion and tenderness. With which anyone, imitating the shining of the star, can show the beauty of the Father's face to all the people they meet. We can do this without the need for extraordinary instruments and sophisticated means, but by making our hearts bright in faith, our gazes generous in welcoming, our gestures and words full of kindness and humanity, Francis added. Thus, looking at the example of the Magi, it is possible to be, for each other, lights that lead to an encounter with Him. The risk of looking only at oneself is real, while it is good to cultivate a movement towards the other. It is bad that one person is not a light for others. During his homily, Pope Francis also spoke of the star's ability to be visible to all people. Despite this, some, like the Magi, notice it, while others, like Herod and the scribes, do not even notice its presence. The star, however, is always there, accessible to anyone who looks up to the sky, seeking a sign of hope. Am I a sign of hope for others? the pontiff asked. The message that such accessibility brings is that God does not reveal himself only to exclusive circles, but to anyone who seeks him with a sincere heart. This is also why the Magi have characteristics of all ages and ethnicities. A detail that makes one meditate as people equipped with increasingly powerful means of communication, seem to become less willing to understand, accept and meet each other in their diversity. The star speaks to us of God's dream: that all of humanity, in the richness of its differences, will come to form one living family in concord in prosperity and peace, Francis continued. The star, in fact, indicates first of all the path. A precious sign to be grasped in this start of the Holy Year, whose motto is pilgrims of hope, and which therefore includes pilgrimage among its characteristic gestures. The light of the star invites us to make an inner journey that, as John Paul II wrote, frees our heart from everything that is not charity, said Bergoglio. And we, looking at the star, can also renew our commitment to be women and men of the Way. After the celebration in St. Peter's, Pope Francis looked out the window of the Vatican Apostolic Palace for the recitation of the Angelus. From here, in front of a packed square still decorated for the Christmas festivities, he spoke about the Eastern Catholic Churches and the Orthodox Churches that follow the Julian calendar, which celebrate Holy Christmas tomorrow. I am pleased to address my warmest wishes, he said. I especially assure my prayers for those who are suffering because of the ongoing conflicts. May Jesus, Prince of Peace, bring peace and serenity to all. And imploring peace in the world, he added: Let us not forget to pray for peace, in the tormented Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, all the countries that are at war, Myanmar. Today's news: Skirmishes over the list of hostages to be freed, while deaths continue in Gaza and the West Bank; North Korea's missile test during Blinken's trip (and political crisis) to Seoul; Indian journalist exposing corruption found dead in Chhattisgarh; Japanese chain Lawson hires workers in Europe to manage night shifts in its convenience stores in Japan through an avatar. MALAYSIA-INDONESIA Malaysia's coast guard escorted out of its waters two boats carrying nearly 300 undocumented migrants from Myanmar, who were found to be exhausted from lack of food and water. Authorities provided the migrants with supplies after the boats were discovered on Friday, 3 January, two nautical miles southwest of the coast of the Malaysian tourist island of Langkawi. The coast guard did not specify whether the migrants were Rohingya. Meanwhile, more than 200 Rohingya landed in the Indonesian province of Aceh over the weekend in the context of a growing number of arrivals by sea of the stateless population in Southeast Asian countries. ISRAEL-PALESTINE While the Israeli government and Hamas continue to blame each other in the ceasefire negotiations, people continue to die in Gaza and the West Bank. Hamas told the Reuters news agency that it had accepted a list of 34 hostages to be freed in the first phase of the ceasefire, but the Netanyahu government claims that it is an old list and that the Islamist group has not provided information on which of those hostages are still alive. Meanwhile, also tonight, at least 13 Palestinians died in shelling in Gaza, while three Israelis were killed in an armed attack on a bus and several cars passing on a road near the settlement of Kedumim. NORTH KOREA-SOUTH KOREA North Korea today launched from an area near Pyongyang an alleged hypersonic missile that sank into the sea after travelling about 1,100 kilometres. The test - disclosed by the South Korean military - is the first in 2025 and took place while US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken is visiting Seoul and while South Korea is grappling with the serious political crisis opened by President Yoon's failed attempt to impose martial law in the country INDIA The body of an Indian journalist who had exposed corruption in public works contracts was found in a septic tank in the state of Chhattisgarh. Mukesh Chandrakar, 32, had disappeared on New Year's Day and his family had filed a complaint with the police. His body was found yesterday in the compound of a road construction contractor in the Bijapur area of the city after officers had traced his mobile phone. JAPAN The Japanese chain Lawson is starting to hire remote workers from Europe in response to a shortage of staff for night shifts at its 24/7 convenience stores. The new hires will virtually assist customers in Japan: interactions through the new system work similar to a video call, except that customers will interact with cartoon avatars instead of seeing the actual salesperson. RUSSIA The 25 richest Russians in 2024 have become even richer by .5 billion, as Bloomberg reports on its list of the 500 richest men in the world. The first of the Russians is Vladimir Potanin, a financial investor, with 31.8 billion in assets, followed by Vladimir Lisin, owner of Novolipets Steel, with 29 billion, five more in 2024. MOLDOVA-RUSSIA-UKRAINE The Moldovan separatist region of Transnistria has been in serious crisis since 1 January, when Russian gas flows through Ukraine were interrupted. Work in all factories has stopped, many villages have been totally without electricity and heating, so much so that the inhabitants are hoarding wood for heating, and a real humanitarian catastrophe is near. 6 January 2025 19:57 (UTC+04:00) Elnur Enveroglu Read more It is an undeniable fact that Armenia's military budget is growing rapidly year after year despite a huge reluctance to serve in the military among the Armenian community. Considering that this is largely due to foreign support, it can be concluded that the country is simply being provoked into war. Although the 1990s, that is, the period of the First Garabagh War, is considered a period of fluke for Armenia, time and circumstances played a paramount role here. In fact, Armenia at that time had neither combat experience nor a proper military strategic plan, except what was left from the former Soviet Army. A group of Armenian separatist military units, which were used as a mere element to wage the war, were executing orders from foreign forces designing evil plans for the South Caucasus. Because the battles were not fought over the concept of homeland, but for the sake of occupation and long-term conflict subjects. It is an extraordinary result in world practice that a state that had been under Soviet rule for 70 years was able to restore its sovereignty within 30 years fully. Armenia had to give the occupied territories back without reservation or conditions and accepted them as a reality; although this did not sound convincing in words, it remained in the memory as a great historical moment, as Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan said: Garabagh is Azerbaijan. The outcome of the Second Garabagh War is interpreted as a humiliating defeat of the Armenian army, but there are also some behind-the-scenes moments, such that today Yerevan is putting its heroes who caused that bitter defeat in the dock. The content, however, does not change Yerevan recognizes the sovereignty of the country it occupies, but at the same time arrests those who betrayed the occupation policy. Although the information about the sudden arrest of a senior Armenian military officer, Major General Tiran Kachatryan in the Armenian press and social media is not surprising, the statement about his detention has attracted considerable attention as well as spilled the beans about the crooks in the army structure. "The negligent attitude of the former high-ranking official of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Armenia to the performance of his official duties during martial law entailed serious consequences. In particular, the actions of the latter led to the failure of the defense of the army line of the Armed Forces, undermined the troop command and control system, were unable to fulfill the assigned combat mission, as a result of which the enemy took advantage of the situation and unhinderedly captured the strategic heights, broke through the existing line, in another case bypassed its own units and, developing the attack, took control of the territories entrusted to the security of the group, it says in the statement. Could the Armenian army have won if they had focused all their attention? It's an interesting question, but the answer is obvious - No. As for Khachatryan's arrest, other comments also emphasize that he was accused of corruption. The question arises as to whether this is the first time that Armenia has revealed a corruption case in its army. It is not worth talking about the state of the army of a country under the rule of Robert Kocharyan and Serzh Sargsyan, especially the army under Seyran Ohanyans commandership. The fact that the Armenian army was able to escape with only defeat in the Second Garabagh War should have been celebrated as a solemn holiday in Yerevan every year on November 10. Because the legacy left by the former masters of corruption created such a situation that trust in the military in the country had reached zero. Every year, increasing suicides and desertions in the Armenian army became daily news. The bodies of soldiers chained to military vehicles during the Second Garabagh War were a testament to the state of affairs in the army. A soldier who was forcibly thrown in front of a shell on the territory of another state can respect neither his general nor the leadership of his country. It's a good thing that generals who turn soldiers' underwear and food into a source of profit are not executed in Armenia, otherwise not a single high-ranking officer in the army would have survived. Recall the fact that during the years when Ohanyan led the Armenian army, there were more cases of mass corruption, brutal dedovshchina (hazing and abuse), and crimes. Thief with code laws were introduced to the Armenian army during Ohanyan's time. Seyran himself sat at the top of the corruption pyramid, so there was no one to fight against these villains in some form. Seyran led his entourage to privatize the territories belonging to the military units for a penny and then sell them at the market price. Some 80 percent of the bribes from tenders reached Seyran and he was able to share. Looking at all this, it is clear from the results that the Armenian army is unlikely to recover shortly from the psychological trauma it has suffered. A soldier whose underwear has been stolen will neither have the confidence nor the courage to respond to his "enemy." 6 January 2025 15:41 (UTC+04:00) Laman Ismayilova Read more Azerbaijan Youth Union and the Azerbaijan Dance Association are pleased to announce Umid 2025 Arts Contest, Azernews reports. The contest will take place at Rashid Behbudov State Song Theater on January 11-12. "Representatives of the capital and regions of the country will take part in the first large-scale competition of the year. The Umid 2025 Arts Contest has been held for 9 years now, with great success. The main goal of the project is to support talented children and youth and create conditions for them to go on stage and improve themselves. It should be emphasized that this date coincides with the Old New Year for a reason. As the name suggests, Umid 2025 Arts Contest inspires children and youth to start the new year with new hopes and motivation," said the founder of the project, President of Azerbaijan Dance Association Aziz Azizov. The participants will perform in several genres (folklore, classical, pop) and types of art (song, theater, vocals, artistic reading, choreography, fashion). Starting from the age of four, every child, boy, and girl can demonstrate their talent at the competition. The jury of the contest consists of Honored and People's Artists. Media partners of the event are Azernews.Az, Trend.Az, Day.Az, and Milli.Az. 6 January 2025 15:23 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more An Iranian delegation will soon visit Turkiye to discuss the Zangazur corridor, according to Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ismail Baghaei, Azernews reports. Speaking at a press conference today, Baghaei clarified that the Zangazur corridor is not a political issue but rather a technical matter with historical significance for both countries. Irans position is stable. We welcome the expansion of cooperation in the transport sector, but we emphasize that the sovereign rights of countries must be respected, Baghaei stated. He added that the Iranian delegation, comprising relevant agencies, is expected to visit Turkiye soon to address the issue in detail. We hope that the issue will be resolved soon, he concluded. 6 January 2025 15:37 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more On January 6, at about 14:10, the Armenian armed forces units from positions located in the direction of Digh settlement of the Gorus region using small arms once again subjected to fire the Azerbaijan Army positions stationed in the direction of Zabukh settlement of the Lachin region, Azernews reports via Defence Ministry. Recall that the first such provocation took place on January 5, between 22:00 and 22:10, according to the ministry's report. Thus, units of the Armenian armed forces intermittently fired small arms at the positions of the Azerbaijan army near the Zabukh and Jagazur settlements in the Lachin region. 6 January 2025 17:25 (UTC+04:00) Frank-Walter Steinmeier, President of the Federal Republic of Germany, has sent a letter of condolences to President Ilham Aliyev over the AZAL plane crash near Aktau, Kazakhstan. According to Azernews, the letter reads: His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Mr. President, I was deeply saddened to learn of the crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines aircraft in Kazakhstan, which claimed the lives of 38 individuals. I extend my heartfelt condolences to you and the people of Azerbaijan and express my sympathy. My thoughts are with those who have lost family members and loved ones. I wish the injured a swift and full recovery and hope that the investigation into the causes of this tragedy will be concluded promptly. With deep sorrow, Frank-Walter Steinmeier President of the Federal Republic of Germany 6 January 2025 21:48 (UTC+04:00) "I sincerely congratulate the entire Christian community of Azerbaijan on the occasion of the Holy Christmas! On this bright holiday, I express my solidarity with all your good intentions, and wish each of you the best of health, endless love, joyful days and a happy future! May the Almighty God accept all your prayers!" First Vice-President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Mehriban Aliyeva shared a post on her official social media pages on the occasion of Christmas. Here we are to serve you with news right now. It does not cost much, but worth your attention. Choose to support open, independent, quality journalism and subscribe on a monthly basis. By subscribing to our online newspaper, you can have full digital access to all news, analysis, and much more. Subscribe You can also follow AzerNEWS on Twitter @AzerNewsAz or Facebook @AzerNewsNewspaper Thank you! 6 January 2025 18:43 (UTC+04:00) By Alimat Aliyeva The DPRK has launched a ballistic missile, likely of medium-range. This marks Pyongyang's first missile launch of 2025, Azernews reports. According to South Korean sources, the missile was launched from the Pyongyang area towards the Sea of Japan. The missile landed outside Japan's exclusive economic zone, NHK reported. Kyodo News, citing a government source, also confirmed that the ballistic missile fired by North Korea landed outside Japan's exclusive economic zone. The source further stated that, as of now, there has been no reported damage to Japan as a result of this launch. Japan's Maritime Security Service reported the launch of the suspected ballistic missile on Monday. Six minutes later, the service updated the public, stating that the missile had already fallen. They urged naval vessels to report any fragments they may find without approaching them directly. In a related development, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Seoul on January 6, amid heightened concerns over North Korea's missile activities. His visit underscores the growing diplomatic efforts to address regional security issues and North Korea's missile provocations. This launch comes at a time of increasing tension in the region, with North Korea's missile tests contributing to instability in the Asia-Pacific. The global community, especially the United States, Japan, and South Korea, is closely monitoring Pyongyang's actions as part of ongoing efforts to curb the threat posed by the DPRK's missile and nuclear programs. 6 January 2025 19:21 (UTC+04:00) By Alimat Aliyeva Italy is currently negotiating with Elon Musk's company, SpaceX, for a contract to provide the Italian government with secure communications, Azernews reports. The parties are discussing a five-year contract valued at $1.6 billion. While a final decision has not yet been reached, the agreement has already received approval from Italy's intelligence services and the Ministry of Defense. The newspaper notes that earlier negotiations had stalled until recently. Progress resumed following a meeting between Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and US President-elect Donald Trump at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida on Saturday. Under the terms of the proposed agreement, SpaceX would supply the Italian government with encrypted telephone and internet services. The deal also includes providing communications support for the Italian military in the Mediterranean, as well as offering direct connectivity via SpaceX satellites in the event of emergencies such as terrorist attacks or natural disasters. This contract would further strengthen Italys ties with SpaceX, building on the company's reputation for providing cutting-edge satellite communication services. Additionally, it reflects the increasing reliance on private companies like SpaceX for national security and defense infrastructure, a trend that has been gaining momentum in many countries. The potential deal highlights the growing role of satellite-based technology in modernizing military and government communications, making them more resilient to both cyber and physical threats. Elizabeth Zavala covers federal courts for the Express-News. She can be reached at ezavala@express-news.net. Zavala is a veteran reporter who has been a journalist for nearly 40 years. She joined the Express-News in 2013 and covered the Bexar County criminal courts for nine years. Liz grew up on the near West Side. She graduated from Fox Tech High School and Texas Womans University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in journalism. Liz has worked in various reporting and editing positions at five daily newspapers in Texas, including The Dallas Morning News, Fort Worth Star-Telegram and the Denton Record-Chronicle. Jones received an early lesson in listening to patients needs years ago while she was a second-year nursing student at Simmons College in Boston, working with a cancer patient at Brigham and Womens Hospital. She was demanding to be discharged, and people didnt understand why she was being so difficult, Jones recalled while seated in a conference room at Bostons Jamaica Plain VA Medical Center. Jones spoke with the patient and discovered that she had only a short time left to live, and that doctors had scheduled a procedure for the following dayher daughters birthday. "She really wanted to be home for it, Jones said. She talked with the doctors and had the date of the procedure changed. For me, it was just a few calls, she said, but for her it was everything. The experience helped her realize how a little empathy can have a huge impact on peoples lives. Jones said her husband, Michael Jones, thinks she can sometimes take on a little too much of other peoples pain. I can sit with suffering maybe more than somebody else can without feeling like I always have to fix or change it, she said. Just being present can be really powerful. Jones grew up in Scituate, a suburb on Bostons South Shore, where her mother and several aunts were nurses. I always saw her coming home from work with a smile, she said of her mother, who worked in the local school and also at Brigham and Womens. She would tell anecdotes of how she was taking care of this person, and she did this thing, and it made a big difference. It was clear she derived a lot of meaning from her work. Her father, meanwhile, was an engineer who filled his bookcases with military histories and always had war documentaries playing on the History Channel. He knew every story about Vietnam and World War II, said Jones, who attributes her dedication to working with veterans today to that upbringing. Jones started volunteering at a local nursing home in high school and fell in love with caring for elderly adults. She earned her bachelors and masters degrees at Simmons in a five-year program, developing a special affinity for working with the more difficult patients. I was always drawn to people with serious illnesses, she said. Not the person who comes in with a broken leg, but the person who is really bearing the burden of a life-altering condition. After graduating in 2006, she worked in primary care before getting a job in 2011 as a palliative care nurse practitioner at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. There, she began to see firsthand the way that chronic pain can crush a persons spirit, leading to depression and isolating them from loved ones. She learned to approach each patient as an individual to determine how to help them live as well as possible. Someone with pancreatic cancer might have terrible pain in their abdomen, while someone with head and neck cancer might feel like they are getting a blowtorch taken to their mouth when they get radiation, she said. For those at the end of life, the goal was making sure they are comfortable and die with dignity. By that time, the increased awareness about the addictive nature of opioids such as oxycodone had caused doctors to pull way back on prescribing them. Now if you have chronic pain, its quite difficult to get an opioid, Jones explained. But doctors continued to make an exception for cancer patients, prescribing opioids at high rates out of a belief that the disease required particularly strong medication. Yet Jones could see some cancer patients misusing the medication. They would use opioids to manage the suffering they had in their lifenot necessarily the physical pain, but the existential pain of not being able to work anymore or support their family, the loss of self that can come with a cancer journey. Jones left her full-time job at Dana-Farber in 2014 to start a familyshe and her husband have two childrenand worked part-time at a senior care facility, where she started a palliative care program. In this role, she again saw how patients whod taken opioids for pain earlier in life could wind up developing a substance use disorder. Because of the stigma, however, most cancer programs dont have an integrated approach to dealing with addiction. If you have hypertension or diabetes, they might say thats important to address, because you might not tolerate chemotherapy, Jones said. But if you went into a cancer clinic with alcohol-use disorder and asked for treatment, they wouldnt know what to do. And well-intentioned federal regulations only compounded the challenges. For instance, methadone is a less-addictive drug thats used to treat opioid withdrawal symptomsbut by law it can only be administered in licensed treatment facilities. That means that cancer patients with substance use disorders often must travel to different locations to receive their chemotherapy or radiation treatments and their methadone doses. It wasnt until Jones began working at the VA in 2016 that she found models for dealing with opioid use disorder and chronic pain at the same time. The VA had been a leader in treating addiction since the Vietnam War, when veterans developed addiction issues at high rates. Unlike many health systems that treated substance use disorders separately from physical ailments, the VA pursued a more integrated approach. I have patients that could get methadone, and then take the elevator up a couple of floors to get chemotherapy, Jones said. Studies were also beginning to show that buprenorphine could be just as effective at managing pain as oxycodone but without the dangerous side effects. In high doses, some opioids can lower a persons respiratory drive, leading them to stop breathing and die during an overdose. Buprenorphine doesnt do that, so you can take lots of it and wont ever have respiratory depression, Jones explained. Its intrinsically a safer opioid than oxycodone. But because buprenorphine is classified as a partial opioid agonist while oxycodone is a full opioid agonist, many doctors and nurses have erroneously assumed it is less effective at treating chronic pain. The medication faced policy barriers as well, requiring a special license to prescribe it. At the time, only 13 percent of clinicians across the country had this special licenseand only 5 percent prescribed it, Jones said. The whole thing frustrated her. If buprenorphine could be effective at fighting pain without the addictive side effects, why werent more clinicians rushing to use it? More than a decade into her career, what Jones found when she looked at her profession was widespread confusion about the best course of action when it came to prescribing medications, especially for patients with a substance use disorder. There just didnt seem to be any clear answers. So in 2019, she enrolled in the PhD program at the Connell School of Nursing, determined to find those answers for herself, and for her fellow practitioners across the country. My biggest impetus in getting my PhD was feeling like there wasnt any evidence to guide me, she says. And no one else knew what to do either. In the last year of the Obama administration a central office to push censorship was established, located in the State Department and called the Global Engagement Center. It's official purpose was countering lies from places like Russia and China, but soon it was more active domestically in trying to promote censorship of conservatives. Democrats in Congress demanded and got from Mike Johnson in the infamous 1400 page "cramnibus" funding bill, a one year extension of its authorization. After the firestorm against that deal with the Dmeocrats, Johnson's new temporary spending bill cut all funding for the censorship agency, and most believed that was its death knell. However, chicanery at the outgoing Biden State Department to preserve the functions of this censorship agency have come to light. They distributed the personnel of the Global Engagement Center among other parts of the department, connected by a central hub to continue its censorship mission. https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/investigations/3274279/state-department-documents-reveal-secret-plans-censorship-new-hub/ https://amgreatness.com/2025/01/05/the-hydra-of-government-how-the-global-engagement-center-lives-on-through-rebranding/ New Secretary of State Marco Rubio needs to find all of these personanel and eliminate them from the department. Advocates of censorship are a threat to democracy as freedom of speech is the cornerstone of democracy. https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/jonathan-turley-get-us-out-censorship-business-once-all-2025 President Joe Biden exits Air Force 1 upon arrival at Ellington Field on Monday, July 29, 2024, in Houston. Biden came to Houston to pay his respects to the late U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Texas Republicans are pushing back against a ban on oil and gas leasing along the Atlantic and Pacific coastlines announced by President Joe Biden on Monday. The ban does not impact oil and gas drilling off the Texas and Louisiana Gulf Coasts, where the vast majority of the nations offshore oil production occurs. Instead it cuts off access to most of the nations offshore waters, including the eastern Gulf of Mexico and Alaskas north Bering Sea, areas that arent in much use but oil and gas companies maintain could contain large deposits they might want to develop in the future. Biden said the ban would protect against irreversible damage to beaches and coastal communities, citing the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill that killed 11 people and resulted in millions of barrels of crude being spilled into the Gulf. Advertisement Article continues below this ad READ MORE: Trumps energy pick wants you to love oil and stop worrying about the climate It is not worth the risks, Biden said in a statement. As the climate crisis continues to threaten communities across the country and we are transitioning to a clean energy economy, now is the time to protect these coasts for our children and grandchildren. U.S. Sen. John Cornyn commented on X that it is wreaking as much havoc as possible on the way out the door, while Rep. Troy Nehls, a Republican who represents Richmond, said, The Biden Administrations war on the oil and gas industry continues. President Trump will return to the White House in 14 days. We will drill, baby, drill, Nehls wrote. What steps Republicans can take against the offshore ban remained unclear Monday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad After Bidens announcement, President-elect Donald Trump pledged on the Hugh Hewitt Show to un-ban it immediately. But Trump himself put in place a moratorium on oil and gas leasing in the eastern Gulf and southeast Atlantic coast before leaving office in 2020, following concerns from Republicans and Democrats about drillings impact on tourism and local ecology in those regions. And Trumps authority to undo the leasing ban is unclear. In 2019, a federal judge blocked Trumps effort to undo an Obama administration ban on offshore leasing in Alaskas Beaufort and Chukchi seas. Congress could vote to reverse the ban, but it would require 60 votes in the Senate, a tally Republicans are unlikely to muster with their thin margins of power. More easily, they could vote to order the U.S. Department of Interior to hold lease sales in the banned areas, overriding the Biden administrations action, said Erik Milito, executive director of the trade group National Ocean Industries Association. Some of the elves taking part in CastleCourts Santa Parade in November. Picture by Kelvin Boyes/Press Eye A Belfast shopping centre has revealed its latest retail opening while also announcing a 12% rise in footfall during December. CastleCourt Shopping Centre on Royal Avenue said some shops had even increased their sales by 30% during last month. And it announced that value womenswear retailer Vanilla, a brand sold in New Look, will be opening a standalone store at the centre. Its 12% year on year increase in December footfall has upended a city-wide drop of 7.2% reported by the NI Retail Consortium last week. The centre, which is owned by Co Down property company Wirefox, said footfall had even reached pre-Covid-19 levels on December 20, 21 and 23, when there was an increase of around 20% on the same days in 2023. Centre manager Leona Barr said the team had worked hard to continue to make CastleCourt a top destination. Major openings during 2024 including discounter TK Maxx, which was returning to the centre after a long period in Donegall Arcade. And Ms Barr said its improved figures for December had come despite traffic problems in the city in the run-up to Christmas. She said: Those final shopping days before Christmas are crucial for our stores and leisure outlets, and after December 2023s transport strikes we were hopeful for higher footfall and sales throughout the centre. "However, the month brought widely reported traffic congestion throughout Belfast city centre to contend with, so we are delighted to still have such positive results to share. On the whole, 2024 was a fantastic year, which saw our shopping centre become even more of an attraction. We welcomed TK Maxx back into the centre, and brought well-known national and local brands into new units, such as Greggs and Jacqueline Rooney Arts first city centre gallery. Attracting such names and brands to our centre is crucial for our business and the wider Belfast city centre, giving our shoppers continued choice and confidence in their visit to CastleCourt. The centre said that new tenants in 2024 had brought over 100 new jobs. And Ms Barr said 2025 would be another year of firsts. Our first new opening for 2025 will be Northern Irelands first ever standalone Vanilla store, a popular fashion range currently only available at New Look, which will open in the spring. We look forward to revealing more big names in the near future. Co Down shopping outlet The Boulevard said it had also reversed trends with a 6% increase in sales in the run-up to Christmas. The designer retail destination outside Banbridge said discounts in shops like Kate Spade ny, Levis, Nike and Molton Brown had enabled it to outperform other shopping centres and high streets. The NI Retail Consortium has reported that footfall in shopping centres and high streets across Northern Ireland declined 5.8% in December. During 2024, The Boulevard owned by Co Down company Lotus Property attracted new brands including handbag retailer Radley, sportswear specialist Castore and menswear names Police and Ben Sherman. CastleCourt Shopping Centre manager Leona Barr News Catch Up: Monday 6th January The Scottish Retail Consortium has backed the budget, although it said it was far from perfect (Danny Lawson/PA) The trade body representing retailers in Scotland has urged MSPs to vote for the Scottish Governments budget. The Scottish Retail Consortium (SRC) said that while the budget was imperfect there was much in it that businesses support. Andrea Iucci, head of Norbook, features in this years Ulster Business Leaders in Business edition The Italian native and his wife Elena were having a meal at a restaurant when the chef met them afterwards and told him: Andrea, the work I do is not so different from the work you do. It doesnt matter how many customers you satisfied, how many meals you innovated, or even how many stars you get. It is always the next meal that matters. It was a metaphor that Andrea took to heart: Its not important what you do in the past. Whats important is what you will do in the future. TV presenter and DJ who crashed while more than twice the drink-drive limit is fined and banned A Co Tyrone man has been jailed for eight months after punching a woman and a 91-year-old man who were unknown to him. Jody Dowzell (26), of Castle Hill, Caledon, appeared before Dungannon Magistrates Court where it was heard that on May 20, 2024, police responded to a report that a woman had been assaulted by an unknown male. Police have appealed for information in relation to the incident in Co Antrim Mr Ross said his son could have been "seriously injured or worse" had he been in the car at the time of the incident. Pic: Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph Mr Ross said the incident had left him shocked and angry. Pic: Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph Shards of glass were strewn all over a car seat belonging to Andrew's two-year-old son, who was not in the car at the time of the attack. Pic: Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph Andrew Ross whose car window was smashed when a brick was thrown through it on Sunday afternoon. Pic: Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph Andrew Ross whose car window was smashed when a brick was thrown through it on Sunday afternoon. Pic: Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph A Co Antrim father has spoken of his anger after a brick thrown through the back window of his car left his toddlers car seat covered in shards of glass. Andrew Ross had been driving along Main Street in Cullybackey on Sunday afternoon when a brick was thrown through a back-seat window of his vehicle from the direction of a nearby building site. Though his two-year-old son was not in the car at the time, Andrew said the thought of what might have happened had he been in his seat left him shocked. Andrew Ross whose car window was smashed when a brick was thrown through it on Sunday afternoon. Pic: Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph He could have been badly injured or worse: Toddlers seat showered in glass after brick thrown through car window "I left the house shortly after 4.45pm yesterday evening and was heading down the main street towards the river path, he told the Belfast Telegraph. "As I was approaching the Eurospar, there were already two bricks lying in the middle of the road. I was wondering why they were lying there, but by the time Id driven past, thats when the brick hit the back of the car. "I was initially shocked, I actually thought Id hit something. I turned down and came to a stop down outside the dental surgery. I looked around and saw the broken window, all the shards of glass all over the back seat and all over my sons car seat. "I went from shocked to absolute adrenaline and anger when I realised what would have happened had he been in the car. He would have been badly injured or worse. "That went through my head for the rest of the night; even though it didnt happen, its the what if? There could have been a scenario where that would have played out. Mr Ross said the incident had left him shocked and angry. Pic: Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph After pulling the car over, Mr Ross called his wife, who came down in the couples other car and entered the nearby Eurospar to check if they had CCTV. As she came back out, Andrew said he spotted a number of youths climbing the wall of the building site in an attempt to get out. "I turned round and saw two young fellas coming out of the building site. They saw us and bolted off back into the site, he said. "I went over roaring at them and walked up onto the main road and saw them climbing the wall on the far left corner to get onto the street. They ran up past the main centre of the town and across the road to get through Buick Walk. "We brought both cars back to the house and then the police went down to the Eurospar to see the footage. Theyve seen the lads entering the site and they had actually been in the shop as well. Mr Ross said his son could have been "seriously injured or worse" had he been in the car at the time of the incident. Pic: Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph The PSNI said they were investigating a report of criminal damage in relation to the incident. Neighbourhood Inspector Parkes said: The brick was thrown through the rear passenger window of the vehicle near a building site at approximately 4.45pm on Sunday January 5 causing extensive damage. Thankfully, no injuries were reported. Two young people were observed running from the site in the direction of Main Street towards Tobar Park. Patrols of the immediate area were conducted by police however the suspects were not located. We are following lines of enquiry, and will be continuing with routine patrols of the area. We would appeal to anyone who witnessed what happened or who has dash-cam or other video footage of the area to contact us on the non-emergency number 101 and quote reference number 870 05/01/25. A report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport. Or if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details, they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111. The Islamist takeover of Syria has left Egypt apprehensive and cautiously calibrating future ties, years after President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi came to power by toppling the Muslim Brotherhood. Egypt backed president Bashar al-Assad until the eleventh hour, and with the Islamists of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) now in control in Syria, it worries what impact the change might have. "For Egypt, this creates of course apprehension, especially given the Brotherhood's history in the country," said Merissa Khurma, director of the Middle East Program at the Wilson Center think tank in Washington. Several other Arab states moved swiftly to engage with the new authorities in Damascus, while Cairo has exercised greater caution. Having declared Egypt's support for Assad just three days before his ouster, Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty waited three weeks before calling his new Syrian counterpart and urged the de facto authorities to practise "inclusivity". Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani confirmed the call had taken place, and said that the two countries shared a role in "achieving stability and prosperity for region". On Saturday, an Egyptian aid plane touched down at Damascus airport carrying Cairo's first humanitarian aid delivery since Assad's ousting, the Egyptian foreign ministry said. In the days following the overthrow of Assad, Sisi's comments were non-committal. "Those who make the decisions in Syria are the people of the country," he said. "They can either destroy it or rebuild it," he told a gathering of state-affiliated media figures. "Egypt's reaction has been massively cautious," Mirette Mabrouk, a senior fellow at the Washington-based Middle East Institute, told AFP. "Here you have non-state actors as well as Islamists which are both Egypt's red flags." Domestically, Cairo has moved against any possibility that events in Syria might inspire unrest at home. According to the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights, a rights group, the security forces detained 30 Syrians celebrating Assad's fall, with three of them facing deportation. The authorities also tightened visa restrictions for Syrians, requiring them to receive security clearance. In the hours after Assad was toppled, state-aligned media hailed Egypt's stability in the face of regional turmoil. It broadcast a montage combining scenes of unrest, military drills and development projects, accompanied by a 2017 speech in which Sisi claimed that forces behind the war in Syria could turn their sights on Egypt. "Their mission in Syria is complete," Sisi said at the time, adding that "their goal is to bring down the Egyptian state." Anger was further stoked by the sharing online of a photograph of Syria's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa posing alongside Mahmoud Fathi, a Muslim Brotherhood figure who was sentenced to death in absentia for the assassination of Egypt's former public prosecutor Hisham Barakat. Lebanese authorities also arrested Egyptian opposition activist Abdul Rahman al-Qaradawi on an Egyptian warrant after he celebrated Assad's fall online. Qaradawi had called for a renewal of the 2011 Arab Spring protests that overthrew Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak. Mubarak's removal was followed by a democratic election won by the Muslim Brotherhood, until Sisi took power in 2013. Assad's fall has upended the Middle East's geopolitical balance, diminishing the influence of Iran while significantly boosting Turkey. While Iran backed Assad, Turkey had for decades backed Syria's opposition. For Egypt, Turkey's win is cause for concern, given the two powers' long-standing rivalry. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan cut ties with Sisi after the ouster of the Muslim Brotherhood, and they remained frozen for a decade until a recent rapprochement. "Of course, there's the regional overlay, which is this being backed most closely by Turkey, Egypt's regional rival and a Muslim Brotherhood-aligned regime," said David Schenker a top former US diplomat and senior fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. Despite initial reticence from some, Gulf nations including Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar have already established contact with Syria's new rulers. Schenker said Egypt, which sees itself as a regional heavyweight, "will not want to be isolated" in its approach. Any Egyptian support will likely come with conditions, however. Mabrouk at the Middle East Institute said Cairo would like to see a power-sharing arrangement among Syria's various groups. "The bigger picture is of course concerns over the possibility of mistreating minorities leading to domestic instability and then resulting in regional unrest," she said. "For Egypt, everything boils down to security and interests," she added. A clergywoman who started the first warm bank in Northern Ireland has urged older people struggling to heat their homes during the ongoing cold snap to swallow their pride and seek help if they need it. It comes as the head of a charity for the elderly warned that plummeting temperatures could have serious consequences for pensioners. Rev Mairisine Stanfield and her husband Rev David Stanfield began opening up First Presbyterian Church Bangor in 2022 to mitigate the impact of soaring energy costs during the cost-of-living crisis the hub on Main Street is open three days a week. Weve made space available and will probably do something for the week of this cold spell, Mairisine told the Belfast Telegraph. We always make sure soup and wheaten bread is available and there is always tea, coffee and biscuits. Read more Warning that school and office returns may exacerbate winter illness pressure on NI health service Rev Mairisine Stanfield If anyone comes in who has an obvious need we will help them how we can and put them in touch with the relevant agencies. The church minister is prepared for a surge in the number of people availing of the free heat and hot drinks, but said its hard to know if there will be one. Older people are very proud, Mairisine said. My message to all of them would be please dont allow pride to get in the way if anyone can help you. The church is open from 10am to 4pm on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays to help those who are feeling the chill and it is also open to everyone on Wednesdays for scones, tea and coffee. We have been doing the warm welcome space for a few years now and it used to be five days a week, Mairisine explained. Its only three days a week this year and thats due to volunteer numbers. One of the things we have found is that people actually come because of loneliness that has been a revelation for us and they have found a community. A number of older people have been coming regularly, but also a large group of university students. But I wouldnt be surprised if the problem is much bigger than we are seeing, I think it could be greater than we realise. Last week, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warned the icy blast could put the elderly at risk of death as it issued cold weather health alerts in England with those aged 65 and over, or those with health conditions, most at risk. Age UK said the UK Governments decision to limit the winter fuel allowance to only the poorest pensioners will be put into sharp relief by the cold spell. The chief executive of the charitys NI branch has urged older people to do all they can to keep warm and take care of themselves. Linda Robinson said it is understandable that people may think they should cut back on heating or food, but warned that prolonged exposure to cold temperatures could have a serious impact on older peoples health. Having plenty of hot food and drinks throughout the day can help keep the health risks at bay, as can taking simple precautions such as wrapping up warm when going outside and sleeping with the windows closed at night, she added. [But] we all have a part to play in looking out for our older relatives, friends and neighbours. Offering to bring some shopping or picking up medicines from the pharmacy can be a great help. And the simple act of a phone call or a visit can make a real difference. Stormonts Health Minister and Communities Minister have both urged the public to avail of advice and services that can help them keep warm and keep well in a joint statement. Health Minister Mike Nesbitt Mike Nesbitt said seeking early treatment for minor illnesses and keeping in contact with others are important ways of protecting physical and mental health and reminded the public that local pharmacies can provide advice and even write prescriptions for minor ailments such as coughs and colds. Lots of other practical advice and support is available online and through statutory agencies, health professionals and the voluntary and community sectors, he added. I would urge you to make use of these resources and reach out for the support available if you need it. I also want to pay special tribute to everyone across the voluntary and community sectors who are supporting people to stay warm and well with practical help. Meanwhile, Gordon Lyons said that, in addition to the 17m secured from the Executive to mitigate changes to the Winter Fuel Payment, other services are available to help households in need of additional support as he urged everyone to check possible entitlements. Communities Minister Gordon Lyons (Liam McBurney/PA) He pointed out that his departments free and confidential Make the Call Wraparound Service secured over 62m in additional benefits last year for people who made the call with customers almost 100 a week better off on average. Further information can be found on the NI Direct websites Staying Warm in Winter section. The council is holding Max until he matures enough to determine his official breed More than 11,000 people have signed a petition calling for the release of a puppy currently being held by a Northern Ireland council. Despite the efforts of campaigner Zara Duncan, pitbull-type dog Max spent Christmas and New Year in kennels awaiting a decision on his future. The puppy had been found abandoned in the Dundonald area early in December and, with no owners coming forward, Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council had planned to euthanise him, despite Zaras offer of foster care until Maxs breed was officially determined. The council is holding Max until he matures enough to determine his official breed. Zara said she is dismayed that the council is continuing to appeal for Maxs owners to come forward. The USPCA and the RSPCA have jointly urged the council to rethink its continued incarceration of the dog and allow him to be released to a new home, but its understood that a meeting to discuss Maxs future, scheduled for this week, has now been postponed. At a council meeting in the week before Christmas, dog experts told councillors that Max would need to be at least nine months old before any breed could be properly determined. The council did confirm that arrangements for additional assessment are currently being made, but added that there would be no further comment until this process is complete. Zara said she has already sourced a forever home for Max and has again appealed for his release from kennels. We have lined up a forever family for Max, a home that has been home-checked by a leading, registered charity alongside USPCA and a character reference from a local vet to back up the owners suitability, she said. The council still refuses to release Max and instead would rather release him to the owner who abandoned him. How does that promote welfare? Maxs breed has now been confirmed by his original owners and the breeder. Max is of staffy/French bulldog parentage. Previously, the council said it has been carefully considering the circumstances surrounding the abandoned dog, which was collected on December 10. Wardens deemed Max as a banned breed, Zara said. He has remained in kennels, missing out on crucial puppy development time and, above all, love. Maxs date of birth is confirmed as May 2024, meaning Max is seven months old. Wardens would have assessed and deemed him of type one month ago, meaning a six-month-old pup, still growing and still to reach a state of physical maturity, was assessed and typed by wardens. This contradicts DEFRA [Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs] and UK police advice which insists a dog must reach physical maturity to be assessed accurately. This, at a minimum, is nine months old. Maxs parents are of two legal breeds: Staffordshire bull terrier and French bulldog, she added. There are credible sources and photos to prove this. As the council has classed Max as a banned breed under the Dangerous Dogs Act, the council will only release Max to his original owner or breeder. This could be one of the only ways to save this pups life. A framework put forward by USPCA and Mid-Antrim Animal Sanctuary is one route that we urge the council to explore in the event that Maxs breeder or owner cannot come forward. This would allow Max to reach physical maturity in the safety of a vetted foster home. It is this home which would then bring Max to his independent assessment when he reaches maturity and follow through with the exemption process, ultimately becoming Maxs legal owners. The council has the chance to pioneer a framework which could be used across councils to save lives. People walk in the snow at the Rock of Dunamase in Co Laois on Monday. Pic: PA Weather at Black Mountain on the 6th January 2025 (Photo by Luke Jervis / Belfast Telegraph) Weather at Black Mountain on the 6th January 2025 (Photo by Luke Jervis / Belfast Telegraph) Northern Ireland is to remain in the grip of the current icy winter blast with a new weather warning issued by the Met Office. The second weather warning affects all six counties and is in place from 3pm today until 11am on Tuesday. The Met Office has warned that snow and icy patches may lead to some disruption to travel. A spokesperson said: Rain, sleet and snow showers will continue during Monday evening and night leading to a risk of icy stretches. "A slight covering of snow is possible in places, and perhaps up to 5cms on hills in the north and west, especially the Sperrins. "Snow showers are expected to become more frequent across the north and west for a time this afternoon and evening. Weather at Black Mountain on the 6th January 2025 (Photo by Luke Jervis / Belfast Telegraph) The weather caused several delays over the weekend across the UK, as Leeds, Liverpool and Birmingham airports temporarily closed their runways on Sunday due to heavy snow overnight. Flights to and from Leeds Bradford Airport and Belfast City Airport were cancelled, as well as some flights from Manchester and London City. Two All-Ireland senior GAA semi-finals scheduled for Sunday were postponed, including a tie between Tyrones Errigal Ciaran and Kerrys Dr Crokes. Saturday also saw the postponement of four Irish Cup fifth round matches. On Sunday evening in the Republic, approximately 59,000 homes, farms and businesses were without power. ESB Networks said homes, businesses and farms in counties Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, Kilkenny, Carlow, Laois and Wicklow were impacted. In a statement, it said: "We acknowledge the disruption to family and commercial life this causes, and thank impacted customers for their patience as our crews work to safely restore power." While on Sunday evening, the UK experienced its coldest night of winter so far, with -13.3C recorded in Loch Glascarnoch in Scotland. Despite the weather warning in place, according to the Met Office temperatures are forecasted to rise as the week continues. According to the weather groups forecast for this week, Tuesday in Northern Ireland will have sunny spells and scattered wintry showers with any possibility of snow contained to mostly over high ground. "Feeling bitterly cold in the fresh or strong northwesterly wind, with a maximum temperature of 4 C. Towards the weekend, the weather group also forecasts that the cold weather will continue. They also said Wednesday to Friday will contain mainly dry with sunny spells and sharp frosts at nights. "Winds becoming light. Cloudy on Friday with rain preceded by high ground snow later, they added. In the Met Offices long range forecast for the rest of January, a spokesperson said; Temperatures are likely to be generally around or a little above average, although southern and eastern parts may start rather cold, and it will be cold if or where fog lingers. Colder spells are also possible in the far north at times. Northern Ireland also joins 12 other locations across the UK with a weather warning in place, ahead of a reported artic blast. The other locations are East England, Southwest England, North West England, London and the Southeast, the West Midlands, and Wales, Grampian Highlands & Eilean Siar, Orkney & Shetland, as well as the Lothian Borders. Weather at Black Mountain on the 6th January 2025 (Photo by Luke Jervis / Belfast Telegraph) News Catch Up: Monday 6th January A woman has been hospitalised following a road traffic collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian in Co Armagh. The incident happened along St Patricks Street in Keady just before 9am on Monday. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) attended the scene. A spokesperson said: NIAS despatched one emergency crew to the incident. Following initial assessment and treatment at the scene, one patient was taken to Craigavon Area Hospital by ambulance. The PSNI confirmed they also attended the scene and appealed for anyone with information to come forward. "Police received a report of a road traffic collision involving a pedestrian in the St Patricks Street area of Keady shortly after 9am on Monday, 6 January, a PSNI spokesperson said. Officers attended alongside colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service. Enquiries are at an early stage and anyone with information or dash-cam footage of what happened is asked to contact police. The NI Fire Service have also been contacted for comment. More to follow NIAS attended the scene News Catch Up: Monday 6th January Michael McCullough (45) with his three sons Aiden, Liam and Conn and their new best friend. A helpless puppy who was found clinging to a tree on the bank of a Co Tyrone canal two days after Christmas is full of life in his new forever home. The six-week-old beagle has been adopted by his rescuer Michael McCullough and his family who live just outside Coalisland where the pooch was found on Friday, December 27. Michael and his wife Louise had ventured out for a festive walk along the canal with their three children when they heard a crying sound at around 12.30pm. "I could see other people in the wooded area trying to figure out what it was," Michael recalled. "Initially I thought it was none of my business and walked on. "But a while later the yelping was still going on and most of the people had gone. "There was a woman with a pram on the phone to her partner saying something was wrong - so I decided to go over." When Michael made his way over the brow of a small hill, the desperate cry for help grew louder. He made his way through the overgrown area and looked around. "Thats when I saw his wee brown nose," Michael explained. "He was in the water holding on with his paws crying for help. The puppy was found clinging to tree on the bank of a Co Tyrone canal "I rushed over and just lifted him out. He was shivering so I wrapped him up with my coat." The heroic dad believes the pup was dumped in the water much earlier in the day and may have been there for up to five hours. His wife suggested contacting Drumbonaway Kennels as the couple were concerned about hypothermia setting in. They were fantastic," Michael said. "He was like a wee drowned rat and very scared when I found him, but after a few days with Colleen and Keith he was a boisterous dog." The family had been discussing the possibility of getting a pet pooch in the run up to the shocking incident and it had become a "hot topic" in the house. When they saw the appeal on the rescue centre's Facebook page they decided they couldn't hold off any longer. Terrified puppy pulled from Coalisland Canal finds new home with rescuer. "If you fish a puppy out of the water a few days after Christmas and are still looking for signs you are in trouble," Mr McCullough said. "We made the call and the boys were thrilled when it was confirmed. "Aidan, Liam and Conn are beside themselves now they have him home. "He was bit depressed when we last saw him, but now he's bouncing around full of life and chasing the kids about the house. "It's brilliant." Colleen Cunningham, who runs the rescue kennel, expressed concerns that the Christmas dump out has begun after insisting that somebody had to have dumped the pooch in the water. She wished the little fighter well as she celebrated the happy ending. But the new arrival means there is a new hot topic in the McCullough household. As of Friday, despite the name of every famous actor being suggested, the puppy remained nameless. Michael McCullough (45) with his three sons Aiden, Liam and Conn and their new best friend. News Catch Up: Monday 6th January The public toilet block in Drumquin that one developer hopes to convert into a one-bedroom flat A lack of capacity in the existing sewerage network could spell the end for ambitious plans to convert a public toilet block into living accommodation, a Northern Ireland council has been told. An application understood to the first of its kind in the UK to transform a former public loo in Co Tyrone into a one-bed flat was lodged in October 2024. The toilet block, on the Omagh Road in Drumquin, was put up for sale last year by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council with a guiding price of between 15,000 and 20,000. It had initially been thought that the building could have been converted for commercial use, but the new owner submitted plans to create a living space on the existing site. However, the plans look set to be flushed after NI Water the body responsible for managing the sewerage system said that the public sewer close to the toilet block could not adequately service this proposal. The receiving foul sewerage network has reached capacity, NI Water said in a document submitted in response to the application. The public system cannot presently serve this development proposal without significant harm and public dis-amenity including pollution, flooding and detrimental impact on existing properties. NI Water has no plans to upgrade the sewage infrastructure in this drainage area and, as a result, are unable to approve any new connections to this network. To resolve the issue/s, NI Water require sufficient capital funding to invest in our wastewater infrastructure. In August last year, the organisation said around 19,000 development applications were being held up due to sewage network issues, while in March the NI Audit Office recommended a comprehensive review of how NI Water was funded and governed. DfI Roads has advised that the area in front of the proposed dwelling is considered unsuitable for car parking, as suggested in the application, while objections have also been received from two local residents. One resident, who posted three separate objections, raised concerns over the impact of the proposal on their privacy and suggested there were multiple vacant properties in Drumquin that would be more suitable for refurbishment; another resident, who said the loud noise associated with construction could impact on them, raised concerns that any extra parking associated with the development could limit available parking near their home. However, in a supporting statement submitted with the proposal, the owner said the planned living accommodation would be good for the Co Tyrone village. The proposal to upgrade and modernise the existing building will remove an unsightly structure that offers the potential for loitering, they said. It is a sustainable, well-integrated addition to the village, contributing to local housing need. Due to its central location, it is very accessible, being within walking distance of the village amenities on offer. The proposal is designed to a high standard and will be a positive addition to the locality. The final decision on the proposal will rest with members of the councils planning committee. Serious questions for management, says city councillor A Belfast councillor has told Belfast International Airport it needs to get its act together after passengers on a Sunday night arrival had to wait several hours before being allowed to get off a plane. Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Reverend Justin Welby, laying down the Gregory Crozier on the altar during a service of Evensong at Lambeth Palace Chapel (Neil Turner/Lambeth Palace) Safeguarding in the Church of England must undergo complete reform, a campaigner and abuse survivor said as the Archbishop of Canterbury steps down over failures on the issue. Justin Welby ceases to hold the leading role within the Church from midnight, with the Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell taking temporary charge. But Mr Cottrell has faced his own calls to resign over mishandling of safeguarding, after revelations that a priest at the centre of a sexual abuse case was twice re-appointed under him while he was serving as Bishop of Chelmsford. Justin Welby arrives for a service of Evensong at Lambeth Palace Chapel (Neil Turner/Lambeth Palace) He has acknowledged things could have been handled differently but, appearing to reject calls to quit, has pledged to do what I can to bring about independent scrutiny of safeguarding in the Church. Lucy Duckworth, a Church abuse survivor and policy adviser at The Survivors Trust, told the PA news agency there remains a question for those within the Church as to whether they have trust and faith that previous actions have been acceptable. She added: The Church now has a new leader whose record on safeguarding has also been called into question, like Justin Welbys was. Mr Welby announced his resignation in November, following days of pressure after the publication of an independent review which concluded barrister and Christian camp leader John Smyth thought to have been the most prolific serial abuser to be associated with the Church might have been brought to justice had Mr Welby formally reported him to police in 2013. Having spent Monday privately at his London residence, Lambeth Palace, Mr Welby laid down his bishops crozier a ceremonial long staff in a symbolic act which marks the official end of his ministry as Archbishop of Canterbury after a service of Evensong. Pictures were released of Mr Welby kneeling with the crozier in hand, and another with his head bowed, eyes closed and hands clasped in prayer after it had been set on the altar. Mr Welby kneeling with the crozier in hand (Neil Turner/Lambeth Palace) Lambeth Palace said he had met friends, staff and former colleagues throughout the day, and expressed his gratitude for their dedication, support, and partnership through the years. From Tuesday, most of the official functions normally held by the archbishop of Canterbury will be delegated to Mr Cottrell while some will go to the Bishop of London Dame Sarah Mullally, and the diocesan functions will be carried out by the Bishop of Dover Rose Hudson-Wilkin. The symbolic act of laying down the Gregory Crozier on the altar marked the conclusion of Mr Welbys ministry as Archbishop of Canterbury (Neil Turner/Lambeth Palace) Ms Duckworth said nothing less than complete reform of how the Church handles safeguarding when it comes to child abuse will do. Se told PA: We know there is now such a problem (with safeguarding in the Church), we need to stop focusing the failures on individual leaders and start looking at complete reform of safeguarding within the Church of England. The only way to do that is for independent safeguarding and thats going to be voted on in February at Synod (the Churchs parliament). We trust that Stephen Cottrell and all of the bishops will be voting for that in full. The process to replace Mr Welby is expected to take months, with an announcement about a new archbishop of Canterbury possible in autumn. The former head of a national inquiry into child sexual abuse has warned against politicising the issue, as she urged the Government to act on the full implementation of reforms set out in her 2022 report. Professor Alexis Jay distanced herself from calls in Westminster for a new independent review and said instead the introduction of measures which she recommended two years ago was critical. Labour is now under pressure to launch a fresh probe into child sexual abuse from Reform UK and the Conservatives. The latter refused a request for a public inquiry into events in Oldham while in government. Prof Jay said: Our mission is not to call for new inquiries but to advocate for the full implementation of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuses recommendations. A child protection authority is critical to this process. Campaign group Act on IICSA, which is chaired by Prof Jay, said in an accompanying statement: We urge the Government to provide a clear timeline to deliver on these commitments. Politicising the issue of sexual violence fails to acknowledge its lifelong impact and hinders the implementation of vital and urgent overhaul to our systems required. The Government said it was working at pace to deliver the reforms set out in the 2022 review, which found abuse was endemic across society in England and Wales. It comes as the Prime Minister is expected to respond on Monday to Elon Musks flurry of attacks on his record in tackling historical grooming gang cases as director of public prosecutions (DPP). Sir Keir Starmer has so far resisted speaking about the slew of online posts by the tech billionaire, who is a close ally of US President-elect Donald Trump, which included calling him complicit in the rape of Britain. As DPP, Sir Keir brought in a national network of specialist prosecutors for child abuse and sexual exploitation to oversee convictions against grooming gangs, and changed guidance to focus on the credibility of allegations rather than whether victims would make good witnesses. Mr Musk also posted on X, which he owns, suggesting safeguarding minister Jess Phillips deserves to be in prison for denying requests for the Home Office to lead a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham, Greater Manchester, and called her a rape genocide apologist. Earlier on Monday he suggested the Prime Minister was complicit in the crimes of child sex offenders, and in a separate post added: Prison for Starmer. He also accused former Labour prime minister Gordon Brown of having committed an unforgivable crime against the British people and sold those little girls for votes, over his handling of grooming gangs while in office. Health minister Karin Smyth said Mr Musks attacks on the Prime Minister were wrong and most people in this country know that as she spoke to broadcasters on Monday. It would be more helpful if Mr Musk wanted to use his platform to support victims, she told Times Radio. Asked whether she was worried about Ms Phillips safety, the minister said: Shes a strong person. She will continue this work and we want to make sure that this work happens. Thats the critical thing here. Elon Musk has used his X platform to attack the UK Prime Ministers record (Kirsty Wigglesworth/PA) Sir Keir is not after praise and its not about him, its about the victims, she told Sky News. Asked when the recommendations would be implemented, Ms Smyth told LBC: Im afraid I cant give you a date on that. Were working at pace across Government to implement those (reforms). The minister said the UK will work with America as our international interests are best served by working together, despite the interventions from a key member of Mr Trumps inner circle. Members of Sir Keirs Cabinet also defended their colleagues over the weekend, and Health Secretary Wes Streeting condemned Mr Musks attacks on Ms Phillips as a disgraceful smear. She and the Prime Minister have an actual record of banging up rapists, paedophiles and sex offenders, so they dont need lectures from anyone else, he said. Social media platforms can help to clamp down on those grooming children online if Mr Musk wants to roll his sleeves up and actually do something about tackling violence against women and girls, he said. The Tesla and Space X boss took aim at Ms Phillips after she wrote to Oldham council saying it must follow other towns, such as Rotherham in South Yorkshire and Telford in Shropshire, and commission its own inquiry into historical abuse of children. Sir Keirs Government is against launching another nationwide probe and has said it is working to implement recommendations from Prof Jays inquiry, which concluded in 2022. That review looked into abuse by organised groups following multiple convictions of sexual offences against children across the UK between 2010-2014, including in Rotherham, Cornwall, Derbyshire, Rochdale in Greater Manchester, and Bristol. A marquee is erected on the grounds of Daylesford House in Gloucestershire, the location where Prime Minister Boris Johnson and wife Carrie held a first wedding anniversary party for friends and family (Steve Parsons/PA) A man accused of having items with intent to damage property at Boris Johnsons wedding party venue has pleaded not guilty. Tim Speers, 39, is alleged to have had spray paint, super glue and red boiler suits with him at the Daylesford Estate in Gloucestershire on July 29 2022, the day before Mr Johnson and his wife Carries wedding party. The defendant, of Fairfield Road, Bude, is also charged with one count of possession of a class B drug, cannabis, and a class C drug, Xanax. Former prime minister Boris Johnson and his wife Carrie Johnson (Andrew Milligan/PA) At a short hearing at Westminster Magistrates Court on Monday, Speers pleaded not guilty to all charges. The former prime minister and Mrs Johnson got married in May 2021 but had wedding party celebrations at the Daylesford Estate on July 30 2022. Owned by billionaire businessman and chairman of JCB Anthony Bamford, the Daylesford Estate contains a Georgian manor and hundreds of acres of countryside. The Johnsons had marquees set up in the grounds with hay bales outside for seating for their wedding party. At the hearing, Speers wore a bright green and blue coat and spoke to confirm his name and address. He was bailed to appear at Southwark Crown Court on February 3. The decorated Green Beret who died by suicide in a blazing Cybertruck outside a Trump hotel in Las Vegas was suffering from post-traumatic stress, investigators said Friday, saying they had found no links to "terrorist" groups. Matthew Livelsberger, 37, a member of the elite US special forces, shot himself on New Year's Day in the rented Tesla vehicle filled with fuel containers and fireworks, which exploded. Seven people nearby in the valet area of the glass-fronted Trump International Hotel were wounded in the blast. "Although this incident is more public and more sensational than usual, it ultimately appears to be a tragic case of suicide involving a heavily decorated combat veteran who was struggling with PTSD and other issues," FBI Special Agent Spencer Evans told a press conference on Friday. Investigators said they were still examining Livelsberger's devices, but that so far they had found two letters on his phone in which he spoke of the "burden" of having taken lives, among other issues. Though the truck exploded outside the Trump-branded hotel in Las Vegas, part-owned by US President-elect Donald Trump's family business, Livelsberger "held no animosity" towards the Republican, Evans said. And he said investigators have "not identified any connection between this subject and any other terrorist organization." He said some personal and family issues may have contributed to the incident. Livelsberger's body was burned beyond recognition, but Las Vegas Sheriff Kevin McMahill said authorities had confirmed via dental records and DNA that he was indeed the person who died inside the Cybertruck. He said investigators were still working to establish the exact sequence of events in the Cybertruck, but for now it appeared that Livelsberger shooting himself dead and the blast which ignited the truck were "simultaneous." Evans also said again that investigators have found no link between the blast and the deadly attack in New Orleans which also took place on January 1. In that attack, a US army veteran loyal to the Islamic State jihadist group rammed a crowd of New Year's revelers with a truck, killing 14 before being shot dead by police. Elon Musks comments about Jess Phillips were reprehensible, John Swinney has said, as he suggested rules about foreign donations to UK political parties should be tightened. The First Minister also criticised the tech billionaire for offering glib populist solutions to societys issues after Mr Musk weighed in on UK politics in recent days. In his first significant speech of the new year, the SNP leader urged other parties to back his governments Budget deal in order to prevent real damage being done to Scotlands NHS. Speaking to journalists afterwards, he was asked about the recent comments from the Tesla and SpaceX owner on child grooming gangs in the UK. Elon Musk weighed in on UK politics (Kirsty Wigglesworth/PA) The billionaire, who is a key figure in the incoming Donald Trump administration, claimed UK safeguarding minister Jess Phillips deserves to be in prison for denying requests for the Home Office to lead a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham, Greater Manchester, and called her a rape genocide apologist. These remarks have been strongly criticised by Labour figures including the Prime Minister, who said a line has been crossed. Much of Mr Swinneys speech in Edinburgh discussed how populism can thrive if politicians fail as he warned of a catastrophic reduction in service delivery if Holyrood fails to pass the Governments budget for the coming year. The First Minister was asked how he planned on dealing with Mr Musks role in the incoming Trump administration, given the billionaire has also clashed with his predecessor Humza Yousaf online. Mr Swinney said: The whole theme of my speech today is about the importance of addressing issues that are relevant in peoples lives today and to provide the solutions. Those solutions are not always straightforward and theyre certainly not as glib as populists like Elon Musk would suggest they are. Mr Swinney also said there should be no external interference in Scottish politics whether it comes from London or the United States or Russia or anywhere else. John Swinney gave his first significant speech of the new year (Jeff Mitchell/PA Later, the First Minister said he wanted to examine the rules around foreign donations on a cross-party basis. There has been speculation Mr Musk would seek to make a multi-million pound donation to Reform UK, though more recently its leader Nigel Farage has fallen out of the billionaires favour. Mr Swinney said: My view of the world today is that our electoral law prevents international or external donations Ive read enough over the course of the last few weeks that makes me think I wonder how robust that actually is'. He also said: What I heard and saw being said about Jess Phillips I thought was completely and utterly reprehensible. Responding to the First Ministers speech, Reform UKs Scottish spokesman Martyn Greene said: The SNPs failure to address Scotlands real issuesunderfunded services, a bloated public sector and a stagnant economyis precisely what fuels public disillusionment. Populism doesnt thrive in a vacuum. It grows when governments fail, and thats exactly what the SNP has done for years. The official account of Elon Musk on social media app X displaying a pinned post, a poll asking if America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government, on a mobile phone in London (Yui Mok/PA) The Prime Minister remains embroiled in a row with billionaire Elon Musk over calls for a national investigation into child sexual abuse following his speech on Monday. Responding to questions about a slew of social media posts from the Tesla and X owner, Sir Keir Starmer accused Mr Musk and others of spreading lies and misinformation, adding they were not interested in victims, they are interested in themselves. He also criticised comments in which Mr Musk described Home Office minister Jess Phillips as a rape genocide apologist, saying a line has been crossed leading to threats against the minister as a result of the poison of the far-right. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the poison of the far-right had led to threats against ministers (Leon Neal/PA) Earlier on Monday, Mr Musk had accused the Prime Minister of being complicit in the crimes of child sex offenders. Mr Musk continued his attacks on Sir Keir following his speech, describing him as utterly despicable and insane and accusing the Prime Minister of refusing demands for a national inquiry because it would show he was deeply complicit in the mass rapes in exchange for votes. The dispute follows weeks of hostile tweeting by Mr Musk, one of US President-elect Donald Trumps top aides, in which he has criticised Sir Keirs handling of the summer riots and expressed support for jailed far-right activist Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. On Monday morning, he posted a poll on his X account asking whether America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government. Tesla owner Elon Musk has repeatedly criticised the Prime Minister on his social media platform, X (Leon Neal/PA) While Sir Keir declined to comment on Mr Musks poll, he strongly criticised those who are cheerleading Tommy Robinson, saying they were not interested in justice and trying to get some vicarious thrill from street violence. He went on to defend his record on tackling grooming gangs as director of public prosecutions, saying when he left office we had the highest number of child sexual abuse cases being prosecuted on record. The row prompted by Mr Musks comments has also seen Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch call for a full national inquiry into the rape gangs scandal and defend shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick after he tweeted that importing hundreds of thousands of people from alien cultures, who possess medieval attitudes towards women had led to the scandal. Sir Keir accused the Tories of amplifying what the far-right is saying and jumping on the bandwagon to gain attention, saying Mrs Badenoch had failed to implement the recommendations of Professor Alexis Jays 2022 report on child sexual abuse. But Conservative figures hit back, accusing the Prime Minister of smearing people who are concerned about rape gangs. Mrs Badenoch said Sir Keir was applying Labour smear tactics from 20 years ago and was a man of the past with no answers for todays problems, let alone tomorrows. She added: That such a huge scandal could occur should prompt soul-searching not ranting that those of us who care about it are the far-right. Mr Jenrick said the Prime Minister had learned nothing from a scandal in which weak and cowardly local councillors and officials suppressed proper scrutiny, adding: Victims now demand a national inquiry. Sir Keirs official spokesman acknowledged not all those calling for a new inquiry were aligned with the far-right, but continued to hit out at certain politicians who had a chance to do something about this when they were in government. Prof Jay, who chaired the Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse, distanced herself from calls for a new national inquiry, saying it was critical that her own recommendations were fully implemented. The Prime Minister has insisted he wants to see them implemented, but his spokesman would not place a deadline on when this could happen. In the Commons, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said the Government would begin implementing Prof Jays call for mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse by police officers, and people working with children. The Home Secretary said: I can confirm we will make it mandatory to report abuse and we will put the measures in the Crime and Policing Bill that will be put before Parliament this spring, making it an offence with professional and criminal sanctions to fail to report or cover up child sexual abuse. The protection of institutions must never be put before the protection of children. French former president Nicolas Sarkozy attends a ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. (Ludovic Marin/Pool via AP) By Nicolas Vaux-Montagny and Sylvie Corbet, Associated Press By Nicolas Vaux-Montagny and Sylvie Corbet, Associated Press Frances former president Nicolas Sarkozy goes on trial on Monday over alleged illegal financing of his 2007 presidential campaign by the government of late Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi. The so-called Libyan case, the biggest and possibly most shocking of several scandals involving Mr Sarkozy, is scheduled to run until April 10, with a verdict expected at a later date. Mr Sarkozy, 69, faces charges of passive corruption, illegal campaign financing, concealment of embezzlement of public funds and criminal association, punished by up to 10 years in prison. Mr Sarkozy, who served as president from 2007 to 2012, has denied any wrongdoing. The trial involves 11 other defendants, including three former ministers. Franco-Lebanese businessman Ziad Takieddine, accused of having played the role of intermediary, has fled to Lebanon and is not expected to appear at the Paris court. Mr Sarkozy is looking forward to the hearings with determination, his lawyer Christophe Ingrain said in a statement. There is no Libyan financing of the campaign, the statement said. Nicolas Sarkozy leaves the Elysee Palace after a lunch with heads of states and officials (AP/Kamil Zihnioglu) We want to believe the court will have the courage to examine the facts objectively, without being guided by the nebulous theory that poisoned the investigation. The case emerged in March 2011, when a Libyan news agency reported that the Gadhafi government had financed Mr Sarkozys 2007 campaign. In an interview, Mr Gadhafi himself said its thanks to us that he reached the presidency. We provided him with the funds that allowed him to win, without providing any amount or other details. Mr Sarkozy, who had welcomed Mr Gadhafi to Paris with great honours in 2007, became one of the first Western leaders to push for military intervention in Libya in March 2011, when Arab Spring pro-democracy protests swept the Arab world. Mr Gadhafi was killed by opposition fighters in October that same year, ending his four-decade rule of the North African country. The next year, French online news site Mediapart published a document said to be a note from the Libyan secret services, mentioning Gadhafis agreement to provide Mr Sarkozys campaign with 50 million euros (44.4 million) in financing. Mr Sarkozy strongly rejected the accusations, calling the document a blatant fake and filing complaints for forgery, concealment and spreading false news. However, French investigative magistrates eventually said in 2016 that the document has all the characteristics of an authentic one, although there is no definitive evidence that such a transaction took place. The official cost for Sarkozys 2007 campaign was 20 million euros (16.5 million). French investigators scrutinised numerous trips to Libya made by people close to Sarkozy, then the interior minister, between 2005 and 2007, including his chief of staff Claude Gueant. They also noted dozens of meetings between Mr Gueant and Mr Takieddine, a key player in major French military contracts abroad. Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy, right, and his lawyer Jacqueline Laffont, centre. in 2020 (AP/Michel Euler) The investigation gained traction when Mr Takieddine told news site Mediapart in 2016 that he had delivered three suitcases from Libya containing millions in cash to the French Interior Ministry. However, Mr Takieddinne reversed his statement four years later. Since then, a separate investigation has been launched into alleged witness tampering as magistrates suspect an attempt to pressure Mr Takieddine in order to clear Mr Sarkozy. Mr Sarkozy and his wife, former supermodel Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, were given preliminary charges as financial prosecutors said the former president is suspected of benefitting from corruptly influencing Mr Takieddine. The other accused are three former French ministers, including Mr Gueant, and a former adviser close to Mr Sarkozy. Like Mr Takieddine, Franco-Algerian businessman Alexandre Djouhri is accused of having been an intermediary. The case also involves Mr Gadhafis former chief of staff and treasurer Bashir Saleh, who sought refuge in France during the Libyan civil war and then moved to South Africa, where he survived a shooting in 2018, before settling in the United Arab Emirates. Other defendants include two Saudi billionaires, a former Airbus executive and a former banker accused of having played a role in the alleged money transfers. Shukri Ghanem, Mr Gadhafis former oil minister who was also suspected, was found dead in the Danube River in Vienna in 2012 in unclear circumstances. French investigators were able to find Mr Ghanems notebook, which is believed to document payments made by Libya. Mr Gadhafis spy chief and brother-in-law Abdullah al-Senoussi told investigative judges millions had indeed been provided to support Mr Sarkozys campaign. Accused of war crimes, he is now imprisoned in Libya. French President Emmanuel Macron has made positive noises over a Trump Presidency in the United States (AP) French President Emmanuel Macron has extended an olive branch to US President-elect Donald Trump, declaring that France is a solid ally as he outlined his vision for global diplomacy in 2025 during his New Years address to French ambassadors. Mr Macron said at the Elysee Palace: Donald Trump knows that he has a solid ally in France, an ally he does not underestimate, one who believes in Europe and carries a lucid ambition for the transatlantic relationship. The President emphasised Frances commitment to fostering cooperation while urging European nations to fortify their unity and resilience. If we decide to be weak and defeatist, there is little chance we will be respected by the United States under President Trump, he warned. Mr Macrons speech, delivered against a backdrop of geopolitical turmoil, laid out Frances foreign policy priorities, spanning the Ukraine war, European defence, and the Middle East. Mr Macron wared that Mr Trump would win nothing if Vladimir Putin should triumph in Ukraine (AP) Even as Mr Macron extended an olive branch to Mr Trump, he delivered pointed criticism of tech mogul Elon Musk, a known Trump ally, for promoting what he described as a new reactionary international movement through his social media platform, X. Without naming Mr Musk directly, Mr Macron referenced his alleged support for Germanys far-right AfD party and his increasing interference in European elections. Who could have imagined, 10 years ago, that the owner of one of the worlds largest social networks would intervene directly in elections, including in Germany? Mr Macron said. He warned of the risks posed by unchecked power in the hands of tech billionaires and the destabilising impact they could have on democratic institutions. Mr Macron framed Mr Musks influence as a challenge to Europes democratic values, reinforcing the need for European unity and resilience against external disruptions. Addressing the grinding war in Ukraine, Mr Macron stressed the need for realistic discussions on territorial questions, adding, such negotiations can only be conducted by Ukrainians themselves. He called on the United States to help change the nature of the situation and convince Russia to come to the negotiating table, while underlining Europes pivotal role. The Europeans will have to construct security guarantees for Ukraine, which will be primarily their responsibility, he said. Mr Macron indirectly criticised Elon Musk (AP) Mr Macron countered Mr Trumps campaign pledge for an express settlement, warning: There is no quick and easy solution in Ukraine. He also highlighted the stakes for the United States, stating: The new American President himself knows the United States has no chance of winning anything if Ukraine loses. The French leader further cautioned against compromise due to fatigue. The credibility of the West will be shattered if we compromise because of fatigue, he asserted, adding that a capitulation of Ukraine would be catastrophic not just for Europe, but for US credibility as well. Mr Macron also addressed a range of pressing international issues, identifying Iran as the principal strategic and security challenge in the Middle East. He pointed to Tehrans accelerated nuclear programme as a looming global threat, warning that the world is perilously close to the breaking point. On Syria, he reiterated Frances long-term commitment to supporting a democratic transition, pledging to remain faithful to Kurdish fighters battling terrorism. The fight against terrorism must remain central to our priorities, he said, reaffirming Frances backing for allies like the Kurds while advocating for a sovereign, pluralistic Syria. Mr Macrons address comes in a time of widespread uncertainty across the globe (AP) In a sharp critique of Europes dependence on US defence technology, Mr Macron urged European nations to bolster their industrial capabilities. If we depend on the American industrial base for our security, we will face strategic dilemmas that are both cruel and culpable, he warned. Mr Macron also addressed the EU-Mercosur trade deal, signalling Frances intent to push for coherent commitments. The proposed agreement, which aims to reduce tariffs and boost trade between the European Union and South American countries, has been criticised for its potential environmental and agricultural impacts. The mass is not said. We will continue to defend the coherence of our commitments, the President stated. Mr Macrons remarks underlined Frances delicate balancing act on the global stage collaborating with old allies while maintaining European sovereignty. One thing that Keir Starmer should not do, as he seeks to manage the relationship with the incoming president of the United States, is to leak private details of his phone calls with him. The legendary Belfast character is fondly remembered by someLoyalist figures such as Ian Paisley and the UVFs Gusty Spence attended his funeralA mural depicting the killer amongst icons like George Best was erected in 2009 For most people, the legendary Belfast character of Buck Alec will ring a bell. He was infamous for his toothless pet lion and street-fighting career, and was even rumoured to have worked with Al Capone. But Buck Alec Robinson wasnt just some sort of loveable street-fighting rogue. He is also widely believed to have been a ruthless sectarian killer as a member of the Ulster Special Constabulary's C Specials. Buck Alec His family and descendants have variously denied those allegations or claimed that killings he carried out were under the auspices of the state, therefore not murder. The USC was formed in October 1920 after calls from unionists for protection and mainly consisted of former Ulster volunteers and ex-British Army soldiers. His full name was Alexander Robinson, he was born in York Street in Belfast in 1901 and died in 1995. Loyalist figures such as Ian Paisley and the UVFs Gusty Spence attended his funeral. Who really was Buck Alec the archetypical Belfast hardman? Ciaran Dunbar is joined by historian Joe Baker. Lion tamer, street-fighter and sectarian murderer: The life and crimes of Buck Alec Robinson Russia said Sunday that Ukraine had launched a "counterattack" in the western border region of Kursk, where Kyiv's forces began a shock ground offensive last August. It was not immediately clear how much Ukraine had advanced in the region, but pro-Kremlin military bloggers reported earlier that a powerful new offensive was under way. The assault comes at a critical juncture in the nearly three-year conflict, with both sides seeking to strengthen their negotiating hand ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House on January 20. "At about 9:00 am Moscow time (0600 GMT), in order to halt the advance of Russian troops in the Kursk direction, the enemy launched a counterattack," the Russian defence ministry said. The Ukrainian army, meanwhile, did not comment on the operation, and simply said in its daily report that fighting was under way in the Kursk region, without giving further details. Ukraine used two tanks, a dozen armoured vehicles and a demolition unit in the assault, which was headed towards the village of Berdin -- about 15 kilometres (nine miles) northeast of Sudzha, it added. "The operation to destroy the Ukrainian army formations continues," it said. Pro-Kremlin military bloggers admitted the Russian army had come under pressure but said Moscow was fighting back. "The main events of the next attempted offensive by the Ukrainian army are clearly still ahead of us," influential pro-Russian Telegram channel Rybar said. Images purportedly showing a column of Ukrainian armoured vehicles driving through the snow were shared by pro-Russia military blogger Dva Mayora on Telegram. Elsewhere on the front line, Ukrainian authorities in the eastern Donetsk region reported Sunday that five people had been wounded in Russian shelling. Ukrainian officials gave little detail on the new offensive, with a prominent lawmaker urging silence. "I can't understand why it is necessary to officially report on the Kursk region. Maybe better to do it afterwards when the operation is over?" Ukrainian MP Oleksiy Goncharenko said. Other officials expressed their glee at the fightback, which comes almost three years since Moscow launched its full-scale military assault on Ukraine. "Russia is getting what it deserves," Ukrainian presidential chief of staff Andriy Yermak said. The head of Ukraine's Center for Countering Disinformation, Andriy Kovalenko, said on Telegram that defence forces were "working" in the area, without elaborating. "In the Kursk region, the Russians are very worried because they were attacked from several directions, and it was a surprise for them," he said. Kyiv seized dozens of villages in the Kursk region shortly after its incursion started on August 6, 2024, but its advances stalled after Moscow rushed reinforcements to the area, including thousands of troops from its ally North Korea. A Ukrainian army source told AFP last November that Kyiv still controlled 800 square kilometres (around 300 square miles) of the Russian border region, down from previous claims it controlled almost 1,400 square kilometres. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said last year the Kursk operation has boosted Kyiv's "exchange fund" -- its negotiating position on swapping prisoners of war -- and diverted tens of thousands of Russian troops away from the eastern front. He said Saturday evening that "up to a battalion of North Korean infantry soldiers and Russian airborne troops" had been lost in battles in the Kursk region on that day and the day before. But Kyiv has so far been unable to halt Moscow's advances in Ukraine, which were seven times higher in 2024 than the year prior, according to an AFP analysis of data from the Institute for the Study of War. Both Russia and Ukraine have exchanged regular attacks since the year began. Russia said Sunday it downed dozens of Ukrainian drones overnight in a barrage that damaged homes and triggered air alerts, while Kyiv said Moscow fired 103 drones into its territory. Four Russian airports briefly suspended traffic early Sunday for "safety" reasons, forcing at least eight planes to divert course, a spokesperson for Russia's civil aviation authority Rosaviatsia said. NORTH ADAMS A man died Sunday night after he was pinned under a car in what police are calling a freak accident. On Tuesday morning, the Berkshire County District Attorney's Office confirmed that the man who died was Christopher Barton, a well-known musical artist in the area and owner of Klipper Kingz barbershop in North Adams. Interim Police Chief Mark Bailey said a 51-year-old man, later identified as Barton, was working on his car on Bradley Street shortly before 8 p.m. Sunday, and it rolled over him. I dont know if you know Bradley Street, but its steep. With his new release 'Honey Fusion Tapes,' Christopher Barton hopes to entertain and enlighten listeners Christopher Barton, a.k.a. BIGZDAKING, the owner of Klipper Kingz, in North Adams, released a new hip-hop album on April 30, "Honey Fusion Tapes," his first in over a decade. Police confirmed there was no one driving the vehicle at the time of the incident. It was a freak accident, really, Bailey said. He was pronounced deceased at the hospital, unfortunately. The State Police accident reconstruction team is investigating how exactly Barton died, so Bailey did not have any further details on Monday. City police and firefighters worked together to lift the car up and get Barton out as quick as they could, Bailey said. The fire department was able to get their chock blocks, I think shoring is the technical name, where they wedge it under the car, Bailey said. The sergeant told me they used the Jaws of Life to pry those away from each other, which ultimately lifts the vehicle up. The Jaws of Life hydraulic tools are used to lift heavy weights, and often by firefighters when extricating a person from a vehicle. Barton has received an outpouring of support on social media, including well wishes for his family and friends. Barton was remembered for his ability to bring people together in his barbershop and through his music. He wrote, rapped, and recorded under the handle BIGZDAKING. Those close to him remember him as eminently generous, charitable, a steadfast friend, a dreamer, a businessman, a mentor. He had a profound effect on many young people, offering advice and free haircuts to those who needed it. He would host cookouts and other events in attempts to build community. Before his death, Barton was outspoken about issues like domestic abuse and the fentanyl crisis, and was an advocate for the Elizabeth Freeman Center. He was the man behind a peace rally in Pittsfield in 2010, which he felt compelled to hold after the murder of Jahda Martin, a former Lee High School basketball star, that year. On the back side of the stone theres an inscription for Wesley Ford, a 16-year-old who died at the Battle of the Wilderness in May 1864. But theres no veterans marker, and Im wondering why," an inquirer wrote. Stay up to date on Berkshires news with Berkshires in Brief, our free daily newsletter An ongoing state and local effort to elongate the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail was successful in 2024, but still has a long way to go. The work on the rail trail was part of 15 miles of new shared-use paths introduced last year, backed by the state Department of Transportation. Now half a mile deeper into Pittsfield, the trail runs from Merrill Road in Pittsfield to Lime Street in Adams. There's a new access point on Merrill Road, completed in November, with a parking lot and a pedestrian signal. The rail trail is now more than 14 miles long, but the state, and local partners, including municipalities, businesses and organizations such as the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission, are anticipating a 25-mile, off-road trail network from Williamstown to Pittsfield, linking many population centers and attractions in the Berkshires, as MassDOT put it in a news release this week. Nick Russo of the BRPC named a variety of intended benefits of the region-wide effort, including encouraging environmentally sound commuting habits. I think itll be a healthy mix of both tourism and commuting, Russo said Thursday. The rail trail is seen as something that can improve air quality with zero emissions, travel by bicycle, and reduce congestion by changing trips over to the bike trail. As for the most recent development in Pittsfield: Ideally it will get people from the rail trail into downtown Pittsfield, so they can either shop downtown, dine, or if you live in Pittsfield, you can easily get to the trail without having to drive, Russo said. The hope is to get a safer connection all the way into the city proper. MORE PER MILE According to MassDOT, the rail trail extension in Pittsfield from Crane Avenue to Merrill Road cost $2.3 million, $1.65 million of which was federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement program money, and $650,000 in state money. State and federal money has historically been used for the trail. There will soon be another 2.4-mile extension in Adams and North Adams, which is slated for $2.4 million, with construction anticipated to begin in Spring 2028. Russo said that the refrain among stakeholders at this point is that all the easy parts are done the remaining 10-plus miles will be more challenging because the rail bed is finished and now to extend the trail involves building the path. Its tough to pin the cost per mile because nothing like this has been done before, since now all the rail trail has basically been done where the rail bed was, Russo said. It will definitely cost more per mile for these next parts. The cost of completing the full 25 miles has yet to be determined. The project is working off a roadmap provided by a MassDOT feasibility study, completed in 2022, evaluating different routes for the trail in the area of Mass MoCA. WHERE TO? State officials have hinted that the path could even go beyond 25 miles depending on what happens. Russo says the rail trail likely wont connect to the states proposed Massachusetts Central Rail Trail thats been envisioned to run from Northampton to Boston. Well be more on our own working north-south as opposed to east-west, Russo said. I see us partnering more with Connecticut and Vermont to get people running north-south through Berkshire County. The Adams/North Adams upcoming extension into North County is planned to go from the existing trail head on Lime Street in Adams to Hodges Cross Road and Route 8. That project is in the design phase right now. In the process there have been land ownership/right of way challenges. Then there is a coalition of town and city governments, including Williamstown, Adams, North Adams, TOURISTS hotel, Mass MoCA and the BRPC, working to develop a proposed budget and scope of work to connect the trail from the new terminus in Adams to the new terminus of the Williamstown path. Russo noted that in South County, there are opportunities to connect Lee, Lenox and Pittsfield. The full 25 miles is totally conceptual at this point, Russo said. Theres been a couple feasibility studies, but nothings really move forward in terms of getting shovels in the ground. GREAT BARRINGTON When it came to finding a new location for Berkshire Pulse, geography was key. The dance nonprofit is anchored in South County, and needs to stay that way for its students, according to Executive Director Abigail Rollins. Over the past three decades, Berkshire Pulse has provided dance and creative arts classes at various locations in the southern Berkshires. Since the pandemic, the organization has grown by leaps and bounds, Rollins said, with a student base that has expanded to neighboring communities in New York and Connecticut. That growth is what prompted a change in venue Rollins said the organizations current home on the third floor of 420 Park St. in Housatonic doesnt have enough space for all of its classes, serving both youth and adult students. A search began over the past year, hoping to find a nearby location that could accommodate it. We realized that if we were to consider a location other than our current home, wed be doing a disservice to this wonderful community that weve been building up, Rollins said. Theres a real need there; people have really begun to identify us with Housatonic. Luckily, they found the perfect spot right next door. According to a news release, the organization closed on a deal to purchase a historic three-story mill building at 410 Park St. in Housatonic on Dec. 20, with financial support from a group of anonymous donors. The move will more than double the amount of space for Berkshire Pulse, allowing it to spread out over 13,350 square feet at the new building. It will also mean a return to familiar stomping grounds for the nonprofit Berkshire Pulse held classes there for seven years before moving into its current location in 2014. The actual move into the new space is still years away, Rollins explained, but the organizations board of directors and leadership will begin developing a plan for necessary renovations in early 2025 in anticipation of a capital campaign to cover those costs. In the meantime, classes and services at the current location wont be impacted. The organization has rented 6,500 square feet at 420 Park St., also known as the Rubin Mill, for the past decade. That space currently houses three studios, office space and a lounge much of that space is jam-packed, especially over weekends. Rollins said the organization served 2,700 individuals in 2023, according to its annual impact report, including students, patrons and attendees at its performances. In 2024, that number jumped to over 3,700 people, she said. Rollins described the newly acquired space as a blank canvas for the organization with a great deal of space to be repurposed. Previous ownership had converted the space into a private residence and made a number of infrastructure improvements that will help them get a running start in terms of code compliance and other logistical factors, she said. The natural beauty surrounding the building also makes it absolutely stunning to visit, she said. You have this incredible view of the top of the woods and the mountains, overlooking the Housatonic River, Rollins said. Its really, really special. The acquisition represents a milestone for the organization, which has rented and borrowed space since it began operating in 1995, and a shift in perspective about its potential. Theres stability, Rollins said. We own that building its not going anywhere. Its just a completely different mindset as we think about our future. BillOReilly.com is not available in this country. We apologize for any inconvenience. Center-President and National Councillor Gerhard Pfister. (archive picture) sda The President of the Center Party of Switzerland, Gerhard Pfister, will be stepping down this summer. He made the announcement at his party's traditional Epiphany meeting in Bern on Monday. Keystone-SDA SDA At the traditional Epiphany meeting of the Swiss Center Party, party president Gerhard Pfister announced that he will hand over the leadership of the party to the next generation in summer 2025. The handover will take place at the delegates' meeting on June 28, 2025 in Biel, where the successor will be elected, as Mitte writes in a press release. "Following the successful implementation of Strategy 2025, the time has come to pass the baton. Now is the time to make room for fresh forces and the next generation," Pfister is quoted as saying. In a message to the centrist base, Pfister wrote that his party's performance in the 2023 elections, with a 14.1% voter share and more seats in the National Council than the FDP for the first time, was a "milestone that shows that our course is the right one." With elements such as the Fairness People's Initiatives and a constructive European policy, the center has shown what solution-oriented politics looks like. +++ Update to follow +++ Biden officially blocks Nippon Steel's proposed acquisition of U.S. Steel amid widespread opposition Xinhua) 16:15, January 04, 2025 WASHINGTON, Jan. 3 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Joe Biden on Friday officially blocked Nippon Steel's proposed acquisition of U.S. Steel on national security grounds -- a decision that economists say could hurt American steelworkers and the U.S. economy. "A strong domestically owned and operated steel industry represents an essential national security priority and is critical for resilient supply chains," Biden said in a statement released by the White House. "This acquisition would place one of America's largest steel producers under foreign control and create risk for our national security and our critical supply chains." In an executive order signed on the same day, Biden cited the 1950 Defense Production Act, stating that he believes that Nippon Steel "might take action that threatens to impair the national security of the United States." In late 2023, Nippon Steel announced plans to acquire U.S. Steel, which is headquartered in Pennsylvania, one of the key swing states in the 2024 presidential election. Before Biden withdrew from the race, both he and his then-opponent, Donald Trump, had expressed opposition to the acquisition. Biden's economic team had previously said that the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) would conduct a review of the acquisition. Recently, CFIUS expressed concerns, believing that the deal could lead to a decline in U.S. steel production and pose a national security threat. However, due to a lack of consensus within the committee on whether to block the acquisition, it chose not to provide a formal recommendation on whether the deal should be allowed. Nippon Steel said the concerns raised by CFIUS were "littered with factual inaccuracies and omissions, misleading and incomplete statements, conjecture and hypotheticals that have no basis in fact and are plainly illogical." It previously stated that it was prepared to take legal action if the acquisition is blocked. U.S. Steel had also previously urged Biden to approve the deal. Following the CFIUS referring decision on pending transaction with Nippon Steel to the president, U.S. Steel said in a statement that this is a transaction that should be approved on its merits, and one that should be a model for "friendshoring" investment. "It is the best way, by far, to ensure that U.S. Steel, including its employees, communities, and customers, will thrive well into the future," it said. In a joint statement Friday, the two companies said they are "dismayed" by Biden's decision to block Nippon Steel's acquisition of U. S. Steel, "which reflects a clear violation of due process and the law governing CFIUS. " "The President's statement and Order do not present any credible evidence of a national security issue, making clear that this was a political decision," the statement said. "Unfortunately, it sends a chilling message to any company based in a U.S. allied country contemplating significant investment in the United States." "Following President Biden's decision, we are left with no choice but to take all appropriate action to protect our legal rights," it added. Gary Clyde Hufbauer, a nonresident senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, told Xinhua that this is really "bad news" for the U.S. economy and American steelworkers. "Nippon Steel has superior blast furnace technology and the cash to implement capital improvements. U.S. Steel has neither, nor do potential U.S. buyers," he said. "Two years from now, U.S. Steel workers, along with shareholders, will sadly regret Biden's decision as the firm sheds workers and shares drop in value. Meanwhile, (President-elect) Trump will likely impose still higher tariffs on U.S. steel imports, imposing high costs on the U.S. economy. A bad outcome all around," said Hufbauer. The outgoing president's decision is "a departure from America's long-established culture of open investment, one that could have wide-ranging implications for the U.S. economy," The New York Times said in an article. (Web editor: Zhao Tong, Zhong Wenxing) Israel pounded the Gaza Strip on Sunday, killing at least 23 people according to rescuers, nearly 15 months into the war with Hamas Palestinian militants. The latest deaths come after Israel late on Saturday said indirect negotiations had resumed in Qatar for a truce and hostage release deal. An air strike on a house in northern Gaza's Sheikh Radwan area killed at least 11 people early Sunday, according to Civil Defence agency spokesman Mahmud Bassal. He said the victims included women and children. "Rescuers are still searching for five people trapped under the rubble of the house," he said, adding his crew members were using "bare hands" in the effort. The Israeli military said Sunday it had struck more than 100 "terror targets" in Gaza over the past two days, marking an apparent escalation in its assault. The Hamas-run territory's health ministry said a total of 88 people were killed over the previous 24 hours. In one strike, five people died when the house of the Abu Jarbou family was struck in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, rescuers said. AFP footage from another strike, on Bureij camp near Nuseirat, showed rescuers transporting bodies and injured people to a hospital. In one scene, a medic attempted to resuscitate a wounded man inside an ambulance, while another carried an injured child to the hospital. Relatives cried over the bodies of two men wrapped in white shrouds, the images showed. Several of the strikes targeted sites from which militants had been firing projectiles into Israel in recent days, the military said. The military separately announced that its forced had killed a militant commander in close combat in northern Gaza last week. It said the slain man was a member of militant group Islamic Jihad's rocket array, and had participated in the October 7, 2023 attack that triggered the war. Last week, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz warned of intensified strikes if the incoming rocket fire continued. The renewed fire in recent days triggered air raid sirens in Israeli communities near the Gaza Strip that were largely destroyed during the Hamas attack last year. Rocket fire had become less frequent as the war dragged on but has recently intensified, as Israel pressed a major land and air offensive in the territory's north since early October. Both warring sides meanwhile said indirect negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release deal were to resume in Qatar. Mediators Qatar, Egypt and the United States have tried for months to strike a deal to end the war. The latest effort comes just days before Donald Trump takes office as president of the United States on January 20. "Efforts are under way to free the hostages," Katz told relatives of a hostage on Saturday, according to his office. His comments followed the release of a video by Hamas showing a teenage Israeli soldier, Liri Albag, in which she called on the Israeli government to secure her release. AFP has not been able to verify the footage. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, in an interview with RTL radio, said that "we continue to exert the necessary pressure" to reach a deal. "Unfortunately, it doesn't depend only on us." Hamas's October 2023 attack on Israel resulted in the deaths of 1,208 people, mostly civilians, according to official Israeli data. Israel's retaliatory military offensive has killed 45,805 people in Gaza, a majority of them civilians, according to figures from the territory's health ministry which the United Nations considers reliable. Far from Gaza, Israel and Lebanese group Hezbollah have traded accusations of violating a ceasefire that ended their war, which had followed cross-border clashes initiated by Hezbollah last year in support of Palestinian ally Hamas. Israel's Katz said Hezbollah had still not withdrawn "beyond the Litani River" in southern Lebanon, as stipulated in the ceasefire deal that halted the fighting on November 27. "If this condition is not met, there will be no agreement and Israel will be forced to act on its own to ensure the safe return of residents of the north to their homes," Katz said. On Saturday, Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement, which the United States and France help to monitor. Qassem said Hezbollah was prepared to act even before the expiry of a 60-day deadline for Israel to withdraw from southern Lebanon. Nearly two weeks ago, UN peacekeepers and Lebanon's prime minister called on Israel's army to speed up its withdrawal from southern Lebanon. Borsa Italiana non ha responsabilita per il contenuto del sito a cui sta per accedere e non ha responsabilita per le informazioni contenute. Accedendo a questo link, Borsa Italiana non intende sollecitare acquisti o offerte in alcun paese da parte di nessuno. Sarai automaticamente diretto al link in cinque secondi. Cocktails from Virtu, a World's 50 Best Bars located inside the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi. Four Seasons The top bars in Houston, including staples like Refuge and the newly opened Bar Doko, often feature elements of Japan's fastidious cocktail culture. On Feb. 3 and 4, however, the Four Seasons Hotel Houstons speakeasy-style bar and lounge Bandista will offer a first-hand experience from Virtu, a bar in Tokyo ranked among the Worlds 50 Best Bars, for a pop-up. The downtown luxury hotel has hosted acclaimed bars for similar pop-ups through the years, but this is its first international collaboration. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "We know our guests and locals will enjoy this very special and exclusive cocktail experience with one of the best cocktail bars in the world, said Tom Segesta, general manager of the Four Seasons Hotel Houston, in a statement. HOUSTON EATS: The Chronicles top 100 restaurants The pop-up requires reservations for up to 90-minute seatings in the speakeasy-inspired Bandista, located at 1300 Lamar. Cocktails are $30 each and proceeds will benefit Camp H-Town, a camp focused on children with cancer, according to the Four Seasons. Virtu at the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi. Four Seasons Virtu's head bartender Keith Motsi and assistant head bartender Graham Kimura will be behind the bar for the pop-up. While theres not a set menu yet, they plan on mixing cocktails with whiskey, mezcal or gin. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Their bar is also famous for its cognac lounge and sweeping views of the Tokyo skyline from the 39th floor bar at the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi . The level of opulence in this cocktail bar and cognac lounge is literally and figuratively sky high is how the Worlds 50 Best Bars entry describes Virtu. MORE FROM BAO ONG: Top Woodlands steakhouse Tris closes unexpectedly with departure of chef Austin Simmons Cocktails from Virtu. Virtu, which opened in 2020 and has Paris-meets-Tokyo vibes, keeps rising in the rankings in the Worlds 50 Best Bars lists. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Its known for combining Japanese ingredients and techniques with the elegance of classic French flavors and traditions. In other words, spirits such as cognac or gin are used to mix cocktails with the precision and balance Japanese cocktail culture is known for in the bar world. State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada Postal Code Two Dublin women who failed to block their trial for refusing to enter into mandatory hotel quarantine after returning from a trip to Dubai during the covid pandemic are pleading not guilty, a court has heard. Mother-of-two Kirstie McGrath, 33, with an address at St Anthony's Road, Dublin 8 and Niamh Mulreany, 28, a mum of one from Scarlett Row, Essex Street West, Dublin 2, were both arrested on the afternoon of April 2nd, 2021, at Terminal 2 in Dublin Airport. Advertisement The two friends had gone to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, where they claimed they intended to undergo cosmetic surgery but ultimately did not have the procedure. However, on return to Ireland, they were charged with breaching section 38 of the Health (Amendment) Act 2021, which can result in fines of up to 2,000 and a month in jail. The law had been temporarily in force at the time and aimed to halt the spread of Covid-19. A district court bail hearing on April 3rd, 2021, was told they went abroad for breast enhancement surgery, which the then presiding judge remarked was colloquially known as a "boob job," but it later emerged they did not get the procedure. Advertisement In a bid to halt the criminal proceedings, their lawyers had brought a legal challenge over the constitutionality of the legislation surrounding the mandatory hotel quarantine system. It went all the way to the Supreme Court, which dismissed their action in September. On Monday, the criminal proceedings resumed at Dublin District Court, but the defendants did not have to attend. The court's presenter, Garda Sergeant Derek Spain, agreed that the case had been going on for a long time and described it as a "saga" that had awaited the Supreme Court's decision. Advertisement Their defence solicitor, Michael French, told Judge Treasa Kelly that his clients were pleading not guilty and seeking a hearing date. Judge Kelly noted they would contest the case and ordered the disclosure of prosecution evidence to the defence. The women's non-jury district court trial was scheduled for February 10 next. Ireland Pension 'loophole' allowed employers to transfer m... Read More At their first appearance almost four years ago, the court heard gardai allegedly tried explaining the new regulations for two hours to the women who claimed they did not know about the law. Bail was initially set at 2,800, and they were remanded in custody, but the High Court changed the terms a day later. It removed the requirement for sureties and money to be lodged and allowed them to go straight to the quarantine hotel for ten days before going home. The defence had said at their first hearing that the two women deny the charges. They also provided three negative PCR tests the week before their return. The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation has called for an emergency national plan to deal with overcrowding in hospitals, as 761 patients were waiting on trolleys on Monday morning. 528 people are in emergency departments in hospitals, with 233 people elsewhere in hospitals across the country. Advertisement At University Hospital Limerick, there are 122 people on trolleys, with 74 people in the emergency department. Sligo University Hospital has 55 people without a bed, with 25 people in the emergency department. INMO general secretary Phil Ni Sheaghdha said: Nurses, midwives and other healthcare professionals are now working in unenviable circumstances in hospitals and community settings as they deal with chronic overcrowding in the middle of a widespread respiratory illness outbreak while national weather warnings are in place. It is inconceivable that we are once again talking about how high trolley figures are on the first Monday in January. Advertisement "This level of overcrowding when dealing with the level of flu and RSV that we have seen over the festive season was entirely predictable but there has been no plan in place by the HSE and individual health regions to stem the worst of it. Ireland Documentary on Michael Lynn asks where did the mon... Read More Our members want to be able to provide safe care to patients but also be assured that their own health and wellbeing is being protected - neither are guaranteed when they are working in overcrowded conditions where respiratory infections are rife. An emergency national plan is needed to deal with the escalating overcrowding problem in part of the country. It is frustrating for our members to see other parts of the public sector coming together so quickly to efficiently deal with the consequences of national weather warnings, yet they are left to deal with entirely predictable annual problems with no new solutions from their employer yet again. The number of patients on trolleys today exceed the inpatient capacity of each large hospital across the country. For example, the number of patients on trolleys exceed the number of inpatient beds in University Hospital Waterford and Letterkenny University Hospital combined. The continued delay of developing three elective-only hospitals, as per the Slaintecare plan is adding to the problem. Advertisement The HSE and other public sector healthcare employers must reassure nurses, midwives, healthcare workers, and the wider public that extraordinary measures are being taken to address and remove all barriers to delivering safe care during this critical time. The relationship between Ireland and Canada deepened under Justin Trudeaus leadership, the Tanaiste has said. Micheal Martin described Mr Trudeau as a true friend of Ireland after the Canadian prime minister announced on Monday his intention to resign after nine years in office. Advertisement Mr Trudeau said internal battles meant he cannot be the best option for the Liberal Party in the next election. Reacting to the news, Mr Martin thanked Mr Trudeau for his time in office and paid tribute to him. Prime Minister Trudeau has made a significant contribution to the global stage, always taking a strong multilateral perspective to tackling the challenges of our time and working for a more just and sustainable world, he said in a statement. Under his leadership, the relationship between Ireland and Canada has deepened. His support for the Irish-Canadian community, based on our shared values and historical and cultural bonds, has strengthened the friendship between our two countries. Advertisement PM Trudeaus commitment to the partnership between Ireland and Canada was clear to me during my meeting with him in Toronto in March of last year, and during his visit to Ireland in 2017. I extend my best wishes to Prime Minister Trudeau, a true friend of Ireland, in his future endeavours. Earlier, former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar praised Mr Trudeaus tenure in power and said that when his legacy is assessed he will be seen as one of the great Canadian prime ministers. Leo Varadkar shows off his Canadian-themed socks during a press conference with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (PA) He told RTE Radio: I do think he was a prime minister who achieved a lot for Canada. Advertisement You mentioned Donald Trump, he dealt with him for four years, Donald Trump was going to get rid of Nafta, get rid of the trade agreement between the USA, Canada and Mexico, and he managed to negotiate a new agreement called the US-NCA which is pretty much the same thing. I think that was quite an achievement. He was very good on climate, had the courage to bring in a carbon tax and bring Canada into the Paris accords, and bear in mind, theres a really strong lobby in Canada oil industry, gas industry, all of that. Brought in gun control, something politicians south of the US-Canada border have not been successful at doing. Brought in a Canadian system of child benefit which I think has made a difference in the lives of children and families and also improved access to affordable childcare and healthcare. Advertisement He acknowledged the problems that Canada faces, but said they were similar to other Western countries challenges: the cost of living, housing shortages and migration. He added: But I think when you look at the broad sweep of what he has achieved over nine years, it is significant and I think he can be proud of what he has achieved. After Mr Varadkar first became Taoiseach in 2017, Mr Trudeau was the first world leader to visit Ireland under his tenure and Canada was the first country Mr Varadkar paid an official visit to in the role. Mr Varadkar announced his resignation in March, when he said being Taoiseach had been the most fulfilling time of his life but said he no longer felt he was the best person for the job. Advertisement Asked about the similarities between Mr Trudeaus exit and his own, he said that Fine Gael was not as far behind in the polls as the Canadian Liberals. He said: I remember one prime minister, (New Zealands) Jacinda Ardern, stepped down after six years, I remember her saying to me once, if youre a prime minister, if youre a head of government, theres only three ways you go: you die, you lose an election or you resign, and if you resign its either by choice or by force. Rice University police officers are seen in front of a university building as they investigate a "potential homicide" at Jones College that was announced on the school website on Monday, Aug. 26, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Police cars sit behind Savannah Tran as she poses for graduation photos Thursday, May 2, 2024, at the University of Texas at Austin in Austin. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer Rice University Police Chief Clemente Rodriguez, left, introduces Mayor John Whitmire as he speaks to the Houston Area Chiefs of Police during a public safety summit at Houston Crime Stoppers on Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024 in Houston. HPD Chief Troy Finner is shown seated next to Whitmire. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Brandon Sanders tries to recruit students to visit the dean of the College of Fine Arts on Monday, Jan. 30, 2023, at the Lyndall Finley Wortham Theatre at the University of Houston in Houston. In November a campus police officer drew his weapon while responding to what he believed was a call about an assault in progress. Theatre students rehearsing a scene, which a witness misidentified as an assault. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer Motor vehicle thefts were the most commonly reported crimes at many Texas universities in 2023 aided by the proliferation of electric scooters on some of the campuses. The Houston Chronicle pulled crime data from Houston-area schools and the seven state university systems' largest schools, using only what was reported on campus, including in student housing. Public property that is on or adjacent to campus, as well as non-campus buildings often used by students, was excluded. The Chronicle tracked only the universities' main campuses, not their satellite locations. In addition to burglaries and thefts, the institutions report offenses including hate crimes, aggravated assault, sexual violence and homicide. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Colleges and universities publish the prior year's crime statistics and safety policies annually, mandated by the Clery Act. The U.S. law, signed in 1990 by then-President George H.W. Bush, was named for 19-year-old Jeanne Clery, who was raped and killed in her college dorm at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania. Scroll through the following tables to explore the universities' crime data, and click the crimes to rank the number of such offenses by school. Texas university system schools The table shows alleged incidents of Clery Act crimes reported to the institution, regardless of whether they moved forward with law enforcement or campus disciplinary proceedings. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Keep in mind that the schools vary in size: Texas A&M University-College Station enrolled almost 70,000 students and counted thousands of additional faculty and staff in fall 2023, and UT-Austin enrolled almost 52,000 students. University of North Texas, University of Houston, Texas Tech University and Texas State University followed, with Texas Woman's University enrolling the fewest of the systems' main institutions. Property crimes made up 80% of incidents on University of Houston's campus, Chief of Police Ceaser Moore said. The university's Clery Act report noted that the increase in scooters on campus contributed. University of North Texas and Texas A&M University also differentiated between scooter thefts and auto thefts. At all seven schools, the wide majority of alleged rapes occurred in campus residential facilities, according to the reports. Houston-area universities University of Houston is the largest of the local universities, with a fall 2023 enrollment of more than 46,000 students. More than 21,000 students enrolled at Sam Houston State University that same semester, followed by Lamar University and University of Houston Downtown. The remaining universities enrolled fewer than 10,000 students in fall 2023. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Only one of the universities recorded a homicide that year. A Prairie View A&M employee was killed on the campus farm in a shooting that involved a former employee, officials said at the time. More by Samantha Ketterer: University of Houston expands TikTok ban to campus Wi-Fi network Arrests The Clery Act also mandates that colleges and universities report a breakdown of arrests, sexual offenses and hate crimes. Search the tables to see what Houston-area and major Texas schools reported in 2023. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Hate crimes The University of Texas at Austin reported the most hate crimes of the major state system universities, at seven. Those were: two counts of intimidation with race bias; intimidation with ethnicity bias; intimidation with national origin bias; assault with ethnicity bias; and one incident including separate counts of stalking and intimidation with sexual orientation bias. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Texas State University counted four hate crimes. Those were: vandalism with sexual orientation bias; intimidation with sexual orientation bias; larceny with sexual orientation bias; and aggravated assault with race bias. Sexual offenses The Violence Against Women Act requires that universities report sexual offenses as part of the Clery Act. Monday's front pages focus mainly on those without power due to current cold snap and widespread travel disruption caused by snow and ice. The Irish Times reports that the incoming government is likely to expand roads investment after projects were seen to have stalled under the Green Party, senior figures in Fine Gael and Fianna Fail have said The Irish Examiner and The Echo focus on the homes being left without power and travel disruption in the south of the country. Advertisement Here's the front page of today's Irish Independent ePaper. You can read the digital replica editions of every newspaper we print on desktop and mobile - learn more here: https://t.co/ZxQFDdLbUd ePaper subscribers can sign in to read today's edition here: https://t.co/TuKxwpPqym pic.twitter.com/pVszb4wxK2 Irish Independent (@Independent_ie) January 6, 2025 Morning readers. Here's a look at today's front page of the Belfast Telegraph. https://t.co/ROsfxA7P05 Stay with us throughout the day for all your breaking news. pic.twitter.com/zzgqDMftWe Belfast Telegraph (@BelTel) January 6, 2025 In the UK. Elon Musk is among the topics covered by the nations papers on Monday. The Telegraph and The Guardian lead with Mr Musk calling on Reform UK to replace Nigel Farage as the partys leader. Meanwhile, The Times and The Independent lead with Keir Starmers plan to slash NHS waiting lists. Staying with Labour, the i says the party is set to drop its 2035 ban on new gas boilers. The Daily Mail leads with calls for law changes after a rise in e-scooter collisions. Advertisement Migrant Channel crossings are expected to soar in 2025, experts have told the Daily Express. Metro carries a story on a 32-year-old woman who became cancer-free following Britains first liver transplant to treat advanced bowel cancer. The Financial Times leads with Wall Street in the US preparing for a listings rush amid buoyant financial markets. And the Daily Star says a million British workers will take a sick day on Monday due to the wintry weather. The far right Austrian Freedom Partys leader Herbert Kickl has met the countrys President as expectations mount that he will be tasked with trying to form a new government. Mr Kickls party won Austrias parliamentary election in September, taking 28.8% of the vote and beating outgoing Chancellor Karl Nehammers conservative Austrian Peoples Party into second place. Advertisement But in October, President Alexander Van der Bellen tasked Mr Nehammer with trying to form a new government after his party said it would not go into government with the Freedom Party under Mr Kickl, while others refused to work with the Freedom Party at all. Those efforts to form a governing alliance without the far right collapsed in the first few days of the new year and Mr Nehammer said on Saturday that he would resign. President Alexander Van der Bellen has welcomed Freedom Party leader Herbert Kickl (AP) The Peoples Party then signalled that it might be open to working under Mr Kickl. Negotiations between the two are not guaranteed to succeed, but there are no longer any other realistic coalition options in the current parliament and polls suggest that a new election soon could strengthen the Freedom Party further. Advertisement The far right and the conservatives have governed together before, but on previous occasions with the Freedom Party as the junior partner. Most recently, they ran Austria from 2017 to 2019 in a government in which Mr Kickl a 56-year-old with a taste for provocation served as interior minister. It collapsed over a scandal surrounding the Freedom Partys leader at the time. Mr Kickls Freedom Party won the parliamentary elections last September (AP) In its election manifesto titled Fortress Austria, the Freedom Party has called for the remigration of uninvited foreigners, for achieving a more homogeneous nation by tightly controlling borders and suspending the right to asylum via an emergency law. The Freedom Party also calls for an end to sanctions against Russia, is highly critical of Western military aid to Ukraine and wants to bow out of the European Sky Shield Initiative, a missile defence project launched by Germany. Advertisement Mr Kickl has criticised elites in Brussels and called for some powers to be brought back from the European Union to Austria. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his resignation following the rise of discontent over his leadership and growing turmoil within his government. Mr Trudeau made the announcement at a press conference outside his residence at Rideau Cottage, in Ottawa, saying internal battles mean that he cannot be the best option in the next election. Advertisement He will stay on as prime minister until a new leader of the Liberal Party is chosen. I dont easily back down faced with a fight, especially a very important one for our party and the country. But I do this job because the interests of Canadians and the well being of democracy is something that I hold dear, he said. Parliament, which had been due to resume on January 27, will be pro-rogued until March 24. The timing will allow for a Liberal Party leadership race, though it was not clear when nationwide elections would be held to pick a permanent replacement. Advertisement Justin Trudeau said that internal battles mean he cannot be the best option for Canada (Adrian Wyld/AP) All three main opposition parties have said they plan to topple the Liberal Party in a no-confidence vote when Parliament resumes, so a spring election to pick a permanent replacement was almost assured. The Liberal Party of Canada is an important institution in the history of our great country and democracy. A new prime minister and leader of the Liberal Party will carry its values and ideals into that next election, Mr Trudeau said. I am excited to see that process unfold in the months ahead. Opposition Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre responded to Mr Trudeaus resignation announcement in a taped message posted on X. Mr Poilievre said that Canadians desperate to turn the page on this dark chapter in our history might be relieved today that Justin Trudeau is finally leaving. Advertisement Nothing has changed. Every Liberal MP and Leadership contender supported EVERYTHING Trudeau did for 9 years, and now they want to trick voters by swapping in another Liberal face to keep ripping off Canadians for another 4 years, just like Justin. The only way to fix what pic.twitter.com/YnNYANTs1y Pierre Poilievre (@PierrePoilievre) January 6, 2025 Mr Poilievre also took aim at the Liberal Party: But what has really changed? Every Liberal MP in power today and every potential Liberal leadership contender fighting for the top job helped Justin Trudeau break the country over the last nine years. Other opposition leaders added their own criticism, including Jagmeet Singh, who leads the New Democratic Party. It doesnt matter who the next Liberal is. Theyve let you down. They do not deserve another chance, said Mr Singh, who propped up Trudeaus party for years. Mr Trudeau had been the second-youngest prime minister in Canadas history when he was elected in 2015, and he had been planning to run for a fourth term in next years election even as discontent in his party grew. Advertisement He said that I have always been driven by my love for Canada and repeatedly described himself as a fighter. Mr Trudeau came to power after 10 years of Conservative Party rule and had initially been hailed for returning the country to its liberal past. Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announces his resignation as Liberal leader (Sean Kilpatrick/The Canadian Press via AP) However, the 53-year-old scion of one of Canadas most famous prime ministers became deeply unpopular with voters in recent years over a range of issues, including the soaring cost of food and housing and surging immigration. The political upheaval comes at a difficult moment for Canada internationally. US President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to impose 25% tariffs on all Canadian goods if the government does not stem what Mr Trump calls a flow of migrants and drugs into the US even though far fewer of each cross into the US from Canada than from Mexico, which Mr Trump has also threatened. Advertisement Canada is a major exporter of oil and natural gas to the US, which also relies on its northern neighbour for steel, aluminium and automobiles. After Mr Trudeaus announcement, Mr Trump, who for weeks has referred to Canada as the 51st state, did so again and incorrectly claimed on social media that the prime minister resigned because Canada relies on subsidies from the US to stay afloat. Mr Trudeau has kept publicly quiet in recent weeks, despite intensifying pressure for him to step down. World Trumps lawyers ask to halt hush money sentencing Read More Ms Freeland and Mr Trudeau had disagreed about two recently announced policies: a temporary sales tax holiday on goods ranging from childrens clothes to beer and plans to send every citizen a check for 250 Canadian dollars (138). Ms Freeland, who was also deputy prime minister, said Canada could not afford costly political gimmicks in the face of the tariffs threat. Our country is facing a grave challenge, Ms Freeland wrote in her resignation letter. That means keeping our fiscal powder dry today, so we have the reserves we may need for a coming tariff war. Frances former president Nicolas Sarkozy goes on trial on Monday over alleged illegal financing of his 2007 presidential campaign by the government of late Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi. The so-called Libyan case, the biggest and possibly most shocking of several scandals involving Mr Sarkozy, is scheduled to run until April 10, with a verdict expected at a later date. Advertisement Mr Sarkozy, 69, faces charges of passive corruption, illegal campaign financing, concealment of embezzlement of public funds and criminal association, punished by up to 10 years in prison. Mr Sarkozy, who served as president from 2007 to 2012, has denied any wrongdoing. The trial involves 11 other defendants, including three former ministers. Franco-Lebanese businessman Ziad Takieddine, accused of having played the role of intermediary, has fled to Lebanon and is not expected to appear at the Paris court. Mr Sarkozy is looking forward to the hearings with determination, his lawyer Christophe Ingrain said in a statement. Advertisement There is no Libyan financing of the campaign, the statement said. Nicolas Sarkozy leaves the Elysee Palace after a lunch with heads of states and officials (AP/Kamil Zihnioglu) We want to believe the court will have the courage to examine the facts objectively, without being guided by the nebulous theory that poisoned the investigation. The case emerged in March 2011, when a Libyan news agency reported that the Gadhafi government had financed Mr Sarkozys 2007 campaign. In an interview, Mr Gadhafi himself said its thanks to us that he reached the presidency. We provided him with the funds that allowed him to win, without providing any amount or other details. Advertisement Mr Sarkozy, who had welcomed Mr Gadhafi to Paris with great honours in 2007, became one of the first Western leaders to push for military intervention in Libya in March 2011, when Arab Spring pro-democracy protests swept the Arab world. Mr Gadhafi was killed by opposition fighters in October that same year, ending his four-decade rule of the North African country. The next year, French online news site Mediapart published a document said to be a note from the Libyan secret services, mentioning Gadhafis agreement to provide Mr Sarkozys campaign with 50 million euros (44.4 million) in financing. Mr Sarkozy strongly rejected the accusations, calling the document a blatant fake and filing complaints for forgery, concealment and spreading false news. Advertisement However, French investigative magistrates eventually said in 2016 that the document has all the characteristics of an authentic one, although there is no definitive evidence that such a transaction took place. The official cost for Sarkozys 2007 campaign was 20 million euros (16.5 million). French investigators scrutinised numerous trips to Libya made by people close to Sarkozy, then the interior minister, between 2005 and 2007, including his chief of staff Claude Gueant. They also noted dozens of meetings between Mr Gueant and Mr Takieddine, a key player in major French military contracts abroad. Advertisement Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy, right, and his lawyer Jacqueline Laffont, centre. in 2020 (AP/Michel Euler) The investigation gained traction when Mr Takieddine told news site Mediapart in 2016 that he had delivered three suitcases from Libya containing millions in cash to the French Interior Ministry. However, Mr Takieddinne reversed his statement four years later. Since then, a separate investigation has been launched into alleged witness tampering as magistrates suspect an attempt to pressure Mr Takieddine in order to clear Mr Sarkozy. Mr Sarkozy and his wife, former supermodel Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, were given preliminary charges as financial prosecutors said the former president is suspected of benefitting from corruptly influencing Mr Takieddine. The other accused are three former French ministers, including Mr Gueant, and a former adviser close to Mr Sarkozy. Like Mr Takieddine, Franco-Algerian businessman Alexandre Djouhri is accused of having been an intermediary. The case also involves Mr Gadhafis former chief of staff and treasurer Bashir Saleh, who sought refuge in France during the Libyan civil war and then moved to South Africa, where he survived a shooting in 2018, before settling in the United Arab Emirates. Other defendants include two Saudi billionaires, a former Airbus executive and a former banker accused of having played a role in the alleged money transfers. Shukri Ghanem, Mr Gadhafis former oil minister who was also suspected, was found dead in the Danube River in Vienna in 2012 in unclear circumstances. French investigators were able to find Mr Ghanems notebook, which is believed to document payments made by Libya. Mr Gadhafis spy chief and brother-in-law Abdullah al-Senoussi told investigative judges millions had indeed been provided to support Mr Sarkozys campaign. Accused of war crimes, he is now imprisoned in Libya. French President Emmanuel Macron has extended an olive branch to US President-elect Donald Trump, declaring that France is a solid ally as he outlined his vision for global diplomacy in 2025 during his New Years address to French ambassadors. Mr Macron said at the Elysee Palace: Donald Trump knows that he has a solid ally in France, an ally he does not underestimate, one who believes in Europe and carries a lucid ambition for the transatlantic relationship. Advertisement The President emphasised Frances commitment to fostering cooperation while urging European nations to fortify their unity and resilience. If we decide to be weak and defeatist, there is little chance we will be respected by the United States under President Trump, he warned. Mr Macrons speech, delivered against a backdrop of geopolitical turmoil, laid out Frances foreign policy priorities, spanning the Ukraine war, European defence, and the Middle East. Mr Macron wared that Mr Trump would win nothing if Vladimir Putin should triumph in Ukraine (AP) Even as Mr Macron extended an olive branch to Mr Trump, he delivered pointed criticism of tech mogul Elon Musk, a known Trump ally, for promoting what he described as a new reactionary international movement through his social media platform, X. Advertisement Without naming Mr Musk directly, Mr Macron referenced his alleged support for Germanys far-right AfD party and his increasing interference in European elections. Who could have imagined, 10 years ago, that the owner of one of the worlds largest social networks would intervene directly in elections, including in Germany? Mr Macron said. He warned of the risks posed by unchecked power in the hands of tech billionaires and the destabilising impact they could have on democratic institutions. Mr Macron framed Mr Musks influence as a challenge to Europes democratic values, reinforcing the need for European unity and resilience against external disruptions. Advertisement Addressing the grinding war in Ukraine, Mr Macron stressed the need for realistic discussions on territorial questions, adding, such negotiations can only be conducted by Ukrainians themselves. He called on the United States to help change the nature of the situation and convince Russia to come to the negotiating table, while underlining Europes pivotal role. The Europeans will have to construct security guarantees for Ukraine, which will be primarily their responsibility, he said. Mr Macron indirectly criticised Elon Musk (AP) Mr Macron countered Mr Trumps campaign pledge for an express settlement, warning: There is no quick and easy solution in Ukraine. Advertisement He also highlighted the stakes for the United States, stating: The new American President himself knows the United States has no chance of winning anything if Ukraine loses. The French leader further cautioned against compromise due to fatigue. The credibility of the West will be shattered if we compromise because of fatigue, he asserted, adding that a capitulation of Ukraine would be catastrophic not just for Europe, but for US credibility as well. Mr Macron also addressed a range of pressing international issues, identifying Iran as the principal strategic and security challenge in the Middle East. He pointed to Tehrans accelerated nuclear programme as a looming global threat, warning that the world is perilously close to the breaking point. Advertisement On Syria, he reiterated Frances long-term commitment to supporting a democratic transition, pledging to remain faithful to Kurdish fighters battling terrorism. The fight against terrorism must remain central to our priorities, he said, reaffirming Frances backing for allies like the Kurds while advocating for a sovereign, pluralistic Syria. Mr Macrons address comes in a time of widespread uncertainty across the globe (AP) In a sharp critique of Europes dependence on US defence technology, Mr Macron urged European nations to bolster their industrial capabilities. If we depend on the American industrial base for our security, we will face strategic dilemmas that are both cruel and culpable, he warned. Mr Macron also addressed the EU-Mercosur trade deal, signalling Frances intent to push for coherent commitments. The proposed agreement, which aims to reduce tariffs and boost trade between the European Union and South American countries, has been criticised for its potential environmental and agricultural impacts. The mass is not said. We will continue to defend the coherence of our commitments, the President stated. Mr Macrons remarks underlined Frances delicate balancing act on the global stage collaborating with old allies while maintaining European sovereignty. Russian troops in eastern Ukraine have captured the stronghold of Kurakhove after a battle lasting months, Russias Defence Ministry claimed. The capture adds the wrecked town to the Kremlins list of conquests in the partially occupied Donetsk region during the almost three-year war. Advertisement The claim, which drew no response from Ukrainian authorities, came a day after the Russian Defence Ministry said Ukrainian forces had launched a new thrust in Russias Kursk border region. The inauguration in two weeks time of US President-elect Donald Trump has brought a new element of uncertainty into the conflict and triggered an apparent effort by both sides to establish battlefield gains before any possible peace talks are held. Almost every day, we defend our skies against Russian missiles and drones. Just last night, Ukraine was attacked by 103 Shahed drones, which contained 8,755 foreign-made components. Over the past week, Russia has used more than 630 strike drones, approximately 740 guided aerial pic.twitter.com/BGoIdMyVd1 Volodymyr Zelenskyy / (@ZelenskyyUa) January 5, 2025 Mr Trump has not detailed his plans for accomplishing his goal of ending the fighting, but his presence in the White House is likely to significantly affect how the war plays out. Kurakhove is a key stronghold for the Ukrainian army on the eastern front line. It has an industrial zone, a thermal power plant and a reservoir. It also sits on a major road running between eastern and southern Ukraine. Advertisement In November, The Associated Press reported from the town that some 7,000-10,000 people likely remained in Kurakhove. Its pre-war population was about twice that number. The town has been under relentless attacks from artillery, multiple rocket launchers, powerful guided bombs and drones that have shattered buildings. Ukrainian officials usually comment on major battlefield defeats only days after Russia announces them. Russia has this year been driving westward in a slow and costly effort to capture all of Donetsk. Ukraine is short of troops on the front lines and is straining to hold back the bigger Russian army. Advertisement Russian forces are trying to close in on nearby Pokrovsk, which is a key road junction and a rail distribution centre, furnishing supplies to a broad span of the Ukrainian front line. Russian forces have been pressed recently in the Kursk region (Russian Defence Ministry Press Service via AP) In 2022, Moscow illegally annexed the Donetsk and neighbouring Luhansk regions, which make up the Donbas industrial area, together with south-eastern provinces of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. But Russian forces do not fully control any of the four. Ukraine is keen to get new Western military aid delivered quickly, and President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday he hoped more would be pledged later this week at a meeting with Western partners in Germany. Russias Defence Ministry said Ukraine launched a fresh offensive in the Kursk region, where military analysts estimate Kyiv has recently lost 40% of what its forces captured in a lightning insurgency five months ago. Advertisement Officials claimed Russian forces repelled the Ukrainian push, but some reports from Russian military bloggers indicated that Moscows forces face significant pressure. UK prime minister Keir Starmer has said the online debate about child sexual exploitation was based on lies, with politicians jumping on the bandwagon. Responding to questions about a slew of social media posts from Tesla owner Elon Musk, Mr Starmer said a line has been crossed when safeguarding minister Jess Phillips and others receive serious threats as a result of the poison of the far-right. Advertisement Mr Starmers comments follow a flurry of posts by Mr Musk on his social media site, X, in which the billionaire claimed Ms Phillips deserves to be in prison for denying requests for the UK Home Office to lead a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham, Greater Manchester, and called her a rape genocide apologist. Mr Musk made a number of controversial statements on his X platform. Photo: Kirsty Wrigglesworth/PA. Earlier on Monday, Mr Musk suggested the British prime minister was complicit in the crimes of child sex offenders, and in a separate post added: Prison for Starmer. He also accused former UK prime minister Gordon Brown of having committed an unforgivable crime against the British people and sold those little girls for votes, over his handling of grooming gangs while in office. Asked about Mr Musks posts to his 210 million followers following a speech at Epsom Hospital in England, Mr Starmer said: Those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible are not interested in victims, they are interested in themselves. Advertisement Sir Keir Starmer outlined his plan for change on health. Photo: Leon Neal/PA. He went on to criticise the response of senior Conservatives to Mr Musks comments, saying he was concerned about where the Tory party is going on this. He said: I think only a few months ago, it would have been unthinkable for things to have been said about Jess Phillips (that) were said recently without all political parties and the leader of the opposition calling it out in terms. Mr Starmer also defended his own record on tackling grooming gangs, saying he had dealt with the problem head-on as director of public prosecutions. Watch live: Prime Minister Keir Starmer announces the governments plan to end waiting list backlogs https://t.co/6URyGN7ofB UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) January 6, 2025 He said: I reopened cases that had been closed and supposedly finished, I brought the first major prosecution of an Asian grooming gang in the particular case it was in Rochdale, but it was the first of its kind, there were many that then followed that format. Advertisement We changed, or I changed, the whole prosecution approach, because I wanted to challenge and did challenge the myths and stereotypes that were stopping those victims being heard. He added: When I left office, we had the highest number of child sexual abuse cases being prosecuted on record. Now that record is not secret. As a public servant, its there for all of you, for everybody to see. Ms Phillips was targeted by the X supremo. Photo: Jordan Pettitt/PA. The row prompted by Mr Musks comments has also seen Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch call for a full national inquiry into the rape gangs scandal and defend shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick after he tweeted that importing hundreds of thousands of people from alien cultures, who possess medieval attitudes towards women had led to the scandal. Advertisement In a post on X responding to criticism of Mr Jenrick, Mrs Badenoch said: We MUST be free to have tough conversations, no matter how difficult that may be to hear. Speaking on Monday, Sir Keir accused the Tories of amplifying what the far-right is saying on child sexual abuse after falling to act for 14 long years. World Russia claims it has captured another town in east... Read More He added: What I wont tolerate is politicians jumping on the bandwagon, simply to get attention when those politicians sat in government for 14 long years, tweeting, talking, but not doing anything about it. Now, so desperate for attention that theyre amplifying what the far-right is saying. Meanwhile, Professor Alexis Jay, who chaired the Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse, called for the full implementation of her reports recommendations. Advertisement Distancing herself from calls in Westminster for a new independent review, she said instead that the introduction of measures which she recommended two years ago was critical. 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 I have a list of questions, but I barely need them. John Dwyer who is bespectacled, has a tangled mess of hair, and is sitting in his living room in Eagle Rock in north-east Los Angeles could talk underwater. Soon after the 50-year-old leader of Osees asks where I am and what time it is (Seven in the morning? F--- that! I wouldnt be doing this interview with me if I was you!), hes off, talking about his love of all things Australian. I had two music lessons at 16 years old when I got my first guitar. The first song I learnt was AC/DCs Back in Black. And then I made the guy teach me Hate Breeders by the Misfits. That was all I needed to start writing songs. Then he starts singing the praises of Gutter Oil, a Perth band who will be one of the opening acts for Osees when they tour Australia in February and March. Theyre swampy and filthy and they sort of remind me of Lubricated Goat, he says, casually referencing the 80s Australian cult band led by Stu Spasm. Dwyer (second from left) with his band Osees. The band has gone through endless name changes since starting as a solo project in 1997. Credit: Oliver Halfin Hes also a huge fan of Australian composer Brian May, who created the soundtrack for Mad Max. But I initially mistakenly thought it was Brian May from Queen. I was so impressed that this incredible guitarist had also written the soundtrack to Mad Max. I said to a friend of mine, How the f--- is he doing all of this? And he said, Its a different Brian May, you cretin. I could go on for days about how much I love Australian films. Maybe its your countrys beginnings as a prison colony that lent itself to this punk-rock approach to films like The Cars That Ate Paris, Ghosts... of the Civil Dead, The Proposition, Razorback and Wake in Fright. Advertisement Dwyer does everything fast, whether its talking, playing, writing songs, or recording and releasing albums. The other day, the girl Im hanging out with right now was watching me make dinner and she said, Youre the fastest person Ive ever met. You even cook unbelievably quickly! For people like me, I think its like an addiction or an affliction. Its so hard to keep up with his catalogue that hes been the subject of parodies, such as a satirical fake news article with the headline: Even Newer Thee Oh Sees Album Somehow Released Before New Thee Oh Sees Album. Oh, thats another thing. The band name. He has changed it regularly over the years. Its now Osees, but in the past it has been The Ohsees, The Oh Sees, Thee Oh Sees, Oh Sees, OCS, Orinoka Crash Suite and Orange County Sound. Whatever the name, almost 30 albums have been released since 2003, but Dwyer has concurrently released around that number of albums again with numerous other bands and side projects. Is there a secret to this seemingly relentless productivity? I mean, this is my job, he says. It also helps that my whole family are these tenacious workaholics, so I have nothing but energy to put towards my true love, which is music and art. For people like me, I think its like an addiction or an affliction. Its not a problem for me to maintain this level of creativity, but if I run out of things to say, Ill certainly stop. Osees are fuelled by dual drummers, their live shows are legendarily loud, wild and intense, and a signature part of the sound is Dwyers electric guitar, which he holds high on his body and attacks as if it recently said something bad about his mother, while he scream-sings with throat-shredding gusto. Advertisement But the latest album, Sorcs 80, has no guitar on it at all. It might sound like it does, but its all samplers. In August, the band filmed a live performance of the new record on a helipad on top of an LA building, with Dwyer and keyboard player Tomas Dolas beating synth pads with drumsticks to trigger the sounds. How does one actually get to play on a helipad in LA? We had to rent it from this Armenian family that owned the building, he says. It rained all day and it was freezing cold. We set up and covered everything, and then sat in the hallway for about six hours waiting for it to stop raining, and the second it stopped, which was basically right at sunset, we ran up, took the tarps off, plugged in, and just went for it. We only had two hours left to shoot. That night, when I got home, I was so f---ing tired I fell asleep with my clothes on. Dwyer is a bit of an open book about most things, even his drug use. But lately hes been talking about living a subtractive life. What exactly does that mean? I just turned 50, he says. I still drink. I still smoke weed. I dont smoke cigarettes any more. Ive always loved LSD. I love speed. I love cocaine. But there comes a certain point where youre at an age where its just not OK to do them any more. Theyre a young persons game. I cant keep that up. I need sleep now. So Ive turned off a lot of those things in my life. One thing he hasnt turned off is his productivity. Naturally, hes already working on the next album. Apart from the fact the guitar will be making a return, he doesnt know which direction it might take. I definitely have the confidence now where Im fine going in with no idea. I can go to the band and say, Lets see what happens. Good luck, everybody. See you on the other side. Advertisement Locals have called for better warnings about sharks on Perth beaches after it took authorities nearly two hours to close Whitfords beach following a swimmers dangerously close encounter last week. Kate Young was swimming last Monday when she noticed a drone flying close to her in the water. Initially concerned about what the operator was doing, Young later learned they were trying to warn her about a nearby shark. I felt a little bit nervous, I thought it was quite intrusive, so I decided to get out of the water, she told 9News Perth. And then I noticed the drone fly closer to the water and just slightly head north, and I thought, That drones not watching me, that drones watching something in the water. So I watched it, and then I saw the shark, the fin of the shark, come up out of the water. Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus is preparing to travel to Israel within weeks in a bid to help mend the fractured relationship between the Albanese and Netanyahu governments. Dreyfus, who is Jewish, is one of the strongest supporters of Israel in the Labor caucus and his planned trip would be the first by a government minister since Foreign Minister Penny Wong visited the Middle East almost a year ago. Tensions between the two nations boiled over last month when Netanyahu accused the Albanese government of fomenting a rise in antisemitism in a fiery intervention just days after Australias ambassador to Israel was summoned by the nations foreign minister for a rare dressing down. Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus is regarded as one of the strongest supporters of Israel in the Labor caucus. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Dreyfus, one of Labors most senior ministers, planned to travel to Israel last year for the first anniversary of the October 7 Hamas attack but had to cancel the trip when Iran launched missile strikes on the nation. Pre-K students run around an obstacle course during a physical education class in a makeshift gym in a t-building at Cornelius Elementary School in Houston on September 25, 2024. Sharon Steinmann Thousands of Houston ISD students return to classes Tuesday for the beginning of the spring semester, which will include several notable developments for families. In the upcoming months, HISD plans to introduce metal detectors in high schools, propose the final draft of the 2025-26 calendar, and obtain board approval for a new custom teacher evaluation system, known as the Teacher Excellence System. Heres a look at what to expect from the states largest school district in early 2025: Advertisement Article continues below this ad Introduction of metal detectors HISD plans to begin introducing metal detectors at high schools starting in January after reporting an uptick in confiscated guns and weapons during the beginning of the 2024-25 school year. The district will begin asking high schools to limit the number of student entrances next week before implementing its first weapons detection system at a school on Jan. 22. HISD Police Chief Shamara Garner said the district will implement one lane for every 600 students enrolled on each campus. HISD plans to introduce OpenGate metal detectors in two schools per week in March before moving to three schools a week in April. All high schools are set to have metal detectors by the end of the school year, according to the district. Advertisement Article continues below this ad SAFETY CAMPAIGN: Superintendent Miles announces collaboration to prioritize addressing 9 dangerous railroad crossings Approval of 2025-26 calendar HISDs state-appointed Board of Managers is expected to approve the academic calendar for the 2025-26 academic year during its monthly meeting on Feb. 13. The district is seeking feedback on two proposed drafts on the calendar through Jan. 10. There are few differences between the two proposals, which both propose 181 school days and starting the upcoming school year on Tuesday, Aug. 12. Both draft calendars do not include a scheduled day off for either of the Jewish high holidays or Eid al-Fitr, which are two of the main religious holidays traditionally observed by the district outside of the annual winter break. Advertisement Article continues below this ad K-12 school choice deadlines HISDs K-12 school choice application for the 2025-26 academic year where families can apply to the districts magnet schools and specialized programs will close Feb. 12. As part of the process, students and parents fill out applications for specialty programs, and the system conducts a lottery to assign students to programs with more qualified applicants than available space. The Phase 1 K-12 application is due Feb. 12, and students and families will be notified about the lottery results on March 20. The deadline for students or families to accept their Phase 1 school match is April 3. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The district plans to open the pre-K school choice application on Jan. 22, but it has not announced when the applications will close or when families will be notified of the results. Teacher evaluation system HISD plans to seek board approval to implement a new custom teacher evaluation system, known as the Teacher Excellence System, during the boards monthly meeting on March 20. Advertisement Article continues below this ad If approved, the district would implement the evaluation system districtwide no earlier than the 2025-26 school year. The exact components of the system remain unknown, but the system is expected to focus on student achievement and quality of instruction. The district is currently piloting the system in 18 schools known as Trailblazer campuses, which have varying locations, achievements and student demographics. Representatives from each of the campuses meet monthly to provide feedback, according to the district. The expected implementation of the evaluation system comes after the board voted in December 2023 to make HISD a District of Innovation, which allows the district to implement its own teacher evaluations during the upcoming academic year. Yearly budget approval HISDs Board of Managers is required to approve its budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year by June 30, which is the end of the current fiscal year. The board plans to hold its first budget workshop at 3 p.m. Jan. 28, although the agenda for the meeting likely won't be released until about three days before the meeting. A BOAC Boeing 747 jumbo jet: the most beautiful version? Back then, popular routes were remarkably similar to those today London to New York, which the 747 first flew, plus London to Johannesburg, Tokyo, and the Kangaroo Route to Sydney. In 1955, flying from London to Sydney took four days and included stops in Zurich, Beirut, Karachi, Kolkata, Singapore, Jakarta and Darwin a far cry from today. Qantas will soon begin the first non-stop flights from London, taking 19 hours. The most popular items on the menu in the 1950s and 1960s were Maine lobster, parma ham cornets and roast sirloin of beef, with highballs and Campari and soda to drink. BOAC merged with British European Airways in 1974 to form British Airways. To this day, BA uses BOACs call sign when talking to air traffic control: speedbird. Pan Am: 1927-1991 BOAC may have won the race to operate the first passenger jets, but it was Pan American Airways Pan Am that put the glamour into flying, coining the term the jet set. For some, the appeal was the trademark blue and white globe logo. For others, it was the stewardesses electric-blue uniforms, with jaunty pillbox hats. Everyone agreed that its first trans-Atlantic route in 1958, linking the city that never sleeps, New York, with the city of love, Paris, was the most romantic of the new jet age. Breakfast at Maxims, anyone? The final Pan Am flight from Australia leaves Sydney Airport in 1986. Credit: Ian Charles Cugley Pan Am became part of popular culture, featuring in hit movies of the 1960s. In Dr. No, Sean Connerys James Bond arrives in Kingston, Jamaica, aboard a Pan Am 707. The 1968 science fiction classic 2001: A Space Odyssey included a futuristic Pan Am Space Clipper heading to a space station orbiting Earth. When the Beatles landed in New York in 1964 for their first US television appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, they did not step off a BOAC jet but rather a Pan Am 707 named, appropriately enough, Clipper Defiance. Margo Robbie in the short-lived TV series Pan Am in 2011. The job of Pan Am flight attendant or air hostess, as it was then was highly coveted. It was one of the best jobs a woman could get, Christel Vane, a former Pan Am hostess, said back in 2013. There was nothing else open for women, unless you wanted to be a secretary. Pan Am was the first airline to operate Boeings 747, the Queen of the Skies, in 1970. It became Americas unofficial flag carrier, but its fortunes began to dip after the 1973 oil crisis when the price of oil quadrupled, making its 747 uneconomic to run. It also lacked domestic US services to help to fill its jets. By November 1978 it flew to just 65 airports. It lumbered on for another decade or so, before declaring bankruptcy in 1991. Nevertheless, Pan Am remains so beloved that two decades after its demise it was the subject of a 14-episode television period drama starring Margot Robbie as a flight attendant. The original trademark blue bags with the white globe logo Robbie sported still fetch premium prices at auctions. Pacific Southwest Airlines: 1949-1988 A Pacific Southwest Airlines plane at the Boeing factory in Seattle in 1968. Credit: Boeing Although it might not feel like it, flying has never been cheaper than it is today, thanks to the rise of low-cost carriers. Ryanair, easyJet and Wizz owe their existence to Southwest, Americas biggest budget airline, and Southwest owes its existence to a Californian start-up called Pacific Southwest Airlines (PSA). Herb Kelleher, the founder of Southwest, says that without PSA he would not have founded Southwest. So what was PSA and why was it so influential? In 1974, a Pacific Southwest Airlines Lockheed L1011 Tristar visited Sydney for demonstration flights for Australian airlines TAA and Ansett. Credit: Trevor James Robert Dallen It first took to the skies on May 6 1949. A leased Douglas DC-3 aircraft departed from San Diego Airport, then known as Lindbergh Airfield, and carried 24 passengers to Oakland Airport, via Hollywood Burbank Airport. Its founder, Kenny Friedkin, took advantage of the fact that as an intrastate Californian airline it was not subject to US government pricing regulations to drive down fares. He offered no frills. There was no branded check-in area at airports, and baggage was weighed using bathroom scales. There was only one class of travel and only one type of aircraft an innovation copied by all modern low-cost carriers. PSA achieved profitability within its first year of operation. In the 1950s Friedkin used Douglas DC-4 aircraft to expand, starting services from San Diego to San Francisco, San Jose and Ontario. The airline floated on the stock market in the 1960s, which gave it the capital needed to grow further using Boeing 727s and later Boeing 737 jets, which sported its trademark orange, red and white livery. With cheerful services and fares sometimes half that of rivals such as TWA, PSA marketed itself as the worlds friendliest airline. In 1978, the US Airline Deregulation Act eliminated federal control over fares, ushering in a new era of competition and growth. PSA seized the opportunity to expand its network beyond Californias borders, reaching destinations including Reno, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City and Cabo San Lucas in Mexico. Anticipating massive growth, PSA ordered specially configured Lockheed L-1011 wide-body jets. USAir, later rebranded as US Airways, acquired the airline for $400 million in 1986, and PSA was integrated into the larger carrier by 1988. But its successful business model is today the norm for short-haul operators around the world, including some carriers that perhaps ought to know better, among them British Airways. Emirates: 1985-present Thirty years ago, few people had heard of Emirates or could place Dubai on a map. In those days, British Airways was the worlds favourite airline, carrying more international passengers than any other carrier. How things have changed. Today, Emirates is the largest international airline by scheduled available seat kilometres 344.7 billion in 2023-24 and its base, Dubai International, is the busiest international airport in the world, handling 90 million passengers a year. Under two Britons chief executive Sir Tim Clark and head of Dubai International Paul Griffiths Emirates has created a hub-and-spoke model that has shifted the centre of gravity of global aviation away from Europe to the Gulf. Australia travel through Dubai to go to Europe and Africa. Europeans fly through there to come here or head to Africa or Asia. Chinese passengers transit en route to Africa. So many Indians connect via Dubai rather than flying direct from Delhi or Mumbai that Emirates is nicknamed Indias national carrier. Business-class passengers can enjoy a drink in the bar on Emirates Airbus A380. Clark has also achieved the rare feat of owning passengers favourite aircraft. He has bought more than 120 Airbus A380 superjumbos and made them Emirates calling card by installing showers for first-class passengers, a large bar for business-class fliers, a class-leading premium-economy cabin and a not-too-shabby economy. Passengers love the innovations. By contrast, Emirates nearest rivals operate no more than a dozen A380s each. If all that werent enough, Emirates has all but single-handedly created the city state of Dubai. Many locals in Dubai joke that it is an airline with a city attached. Qantas: 1922-present The Flying Kangaroo has conquered what Vanessa Hudson, its chief executive, calls the tyranny of distance. It pioneered ultra-long-haul services, flying 15-hour routes from Sydney and Melbourne to Los Angeles, Dallas and Johannesburg while also maintaining one of the best safety records in the industry. It moved on to establish the first non-stop routes from Europe to Perth, with 17-hour flights between London, Paris and Rome and Perth. The Captain Cook Lounge the largest 747 lounge in the world was one of the main features of the Qantas jumbo jet in the 1970s. Now it is about to do something few aviation analysts thought possible: start 21-hour non-stop services from Sydney and Melbourne to London and New York. From 2026, QF2 will leave London before lunch and arrive in Sydney in the late afternoon of the following day. QF1 will leave Sydney in the evening and arrive in London the next morning. The new Qantas first-class suite planned for its A350 flights. At 17,667 kilometres, the services eclipse the longest flight at present Singapore Airlines service between New York and Singapore, which travels 15,330 kilometres in just under 19 hours. Loading I was one of 34 passengers on a non-stop London-to-Sydney test run that Qantas flew in 2019, crossing 10 time zones and 11 countries. We headed east over Northern Europe, Russia, Kazakhstan and China, and then south across the South China Sea, before making landfall near Darwin in the Northern Territory and crossing Australia. You are now members of the Rare and Secret Order of the Double Sunrise, announced Captain Helen Trenerry, as she flew Qantas flight 7879 into the second dawn of our record-breaking journey. No one else has seen two sunrises in one flight and got to Sydney faster than you. The first paying passengers will follow a similar route in 2026 on an Airbus A350 jet built with an extra fuel tank and fewer seats than normal to reduce weight. Hudson reckons first class non-stop to Sydney will be the ultimate status symbol in air travel the new Concorde. She is now working out how profane a fare she can charge. My moneys on $40,000 return. When former Japanese leader Junichiro Koizumi nicknamed Lionheart for his luxuriant mane launched a 2003 campaign to dramatically increase foreign visitor numbers to a recession-prone Japan, he couldnt have conceived that, more than two decades later, the act of taming such a rise in tourism numbers would become akin to wrestling a tiger. Kyotos tourist numbers have surged to unmanageable levels. Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto In 2000, Japan, devoid of any serious tourism promotion, received just four million international visitors in a country of nearly 127 million. In 2024, that figure exploded to more than 33 million, including a record 765,000 Australians, up 74 per cent on the previous year, as Japans ageing population had declined to under 124 million. Japans previous prime minister, Fumio Kishida, had targeted 60 million tourists by 2030, a figure that has alarmed many Japanese about the rapid growth of inbound tourism. He further noted that the latter half of the year saw a weakening in growth due to increasing affordability issues and a rise in available properties, which dampened buyer demand. Looking ahead Nicholls leadership is expected to drive not only the commercial sector, where he has already achieved substantial success but also to bring a renewed vigor to the entire Raine & Horne network as it navigates the challenges and opportunities of 2025 and beyond. Sydney brokerage Harrow & Co. plans to add new brokers and credit staff to its team in 2025 as well as new services as it seeks to grow loan volumes and add more value to its diversified client base. She envisioned a tool that would streamline these processes, thus The Brokers Bible was created to serve not just as a business tool but as a lifeline for mortgage brokers overwhelmed by the complexities of the industry. Hong Kong is embracing the richest Chinese New Year ambience among Asian cities, particular in blending in traditional and modern elements in celebrating the east-meets-west festivities, bringing travellers endless surprises. The festive in-town atmosphere this Chinese New Year is gaining extra miles as the city welcomes its newest residents, giant pandas An An and Ke Ke, who will take up residence alongside a set of soon-to-be-unveiled, local-bred giant panda twin cubs. These new arrivals present a thrilling opportunity and, more importantly, countless adorable photo ops for travellers from around the world to partake in an unprecedented travel experience that begins the moment they set foot in Hong Kong and lasts until their departure. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250106669591/en/ Colourful panda displays are ready to greet visitors on train carriages (Credit: Hong Kong Tourism Board) Heres where to check in around town to enjoy an immersive panda-themed journey, promising delightful surprises throughout the city. All aboard: Panda-themed trains to kickstart your journey Your panda experience during the Chinese New Year period in Hong Kong begins right at the moment you arrive. Colourful panda displays are set to welcome visitors celebrating the Chinese New Year at the citys border on train carriages at the Airport Express Line and the High Speed Rail, not to mention on your way to the home of the giant pandas, the South Island Line. In addition to the on-board decals, concourses at Hong Kong and Ocean Park MTR stations will be adorned with panda-themed decorations. In the wild: Enjoy magical moments with giant pandas around town This Chinese New Year, visitors to Hong Kong will have plenty of opportunities for panda encounters around the city. For the very first time, the Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade, which takes place on 29 January, will feature a float dedicated to giant pandas incorporating iconic local Hong Kong elements. Come witness the festivities while ushering in the best of luck and prosperity on the very first day of the Year of the Snake! Additionally, giant panda-themed naked eye 3D billboards will be dotted around town in high-traffic outdoor locations in celebrating the coming of the Chinese New Year, including Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok from 6 January until early February, and Causeway Bay from 13 to 26 January respectively. While you are out and about for CNY preparation, make sure to check out the eye-catching installations that showcase a pandas journey through iconic attractions, including on a traditional junk boat, at Symphony of Lights, and surveying the scene from high above at Victoria Peak. Come follow the cuties to embark on your local discovery journey to explore the citys essence. Whats more, the Festive Lunar New Year Stop of PANDA GO! FEST HONG KONG will take place from 17 January to 6 March at DPARK, Tsuen Wan. This exhibition will feature over 800 panda sculptures in their debut Lunar New Year-themed designs, bringing joy and festive cheer to the community. Additionally, around 200 panda sculptures will travel to Central Market from 17 February to 6 March, allowing visitors in both locations to catch a glimpse of these adorable installations. As the home of six giant pandas, Ocean Park Hong Kong will transform into a panda-tastic wonderland. Dive into an immersive, park-wide panda land of thematic experiences like Panda Wonders: An Illuminated Journey, a fantastical, multi-faceted journey that includes interactive installations, 3D projections and even AR pandas for a perfect photo op. The theme parks food and beverage outlets are also joining the panda party, with a range of sweet and savoury panda-themed treats on offer. And for sure, Ocean Park is also the only place in Hong Kong to have a real-life panda encounter and check-in. Check in for elevated encounters with pandas Several Hong Kong hotels are also getting into the spirit of the citywide panda-monium. Regala Skycity Hotel is celebrating the arrival of Hong Kongs new pandas with a playful Panda Dim Sum collection and a creamy sesame and coconut Panda Mousse Cake, available at the Jade and Petra. At The Harbourview, guests can enjoy the adorable Panda Bamboo Bliss Afternoon Tea Set in an atmosphere reminiscent of a serene bamboo forest, the perfect way to join the Hong Kong panda party. Whats more, The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel invites guests to spend a full day holiday getaway with pandas. Step into the bamboo forest to have a sweet dream at Panda Party Room, where a lush forest landscapes adorned on the walls with bamboo-style circular bed, Visitors can also enjoy a Thematic Panda Fufu Afternoon Tea and Snack & Concoction Menu at the hotels iconic Lighthouse Lounge, an ideal way for panda lovers of all ages to spend an afternoon. Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott Hotel is also getting in on the panda action. Despite the hotels classic panda-themed room Bao Bao Paradise, visitors can also spend a night surrounded by pandas with numerous panda-themed decorations filled though the hotel, and dont miss out the twinkling panda-inspired immersive light show. For those celebrating CNY in Hong Kong this year, be sure not to miss out on an immersive adventure to Hong Kongs fantastic panda paradise this season. To check in to a panda-themed itinerary, start planning your trip at the Discover Hong Kong website: https://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/what-s-new/panda.html. Images can be accessed at: https://assetlibrary.hktb.com/assetbank-hktb/action/browseItems?categoryId=1820&categoryTypeId=2&cachedCriteria=1 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250106669591/en/ Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd. (TOKYO:7282) will exhibit in the booth of the Uno Minda Group, Toyoda Gosei's joint venture partner in India, at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 (formerly, Auto Expo). This international automotive show will be held at Yashobhoomi in New Delhi, India, from January 18 to 21, 2025. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250105141466/en/ Front center airbag (Graphic: Business Wire) India is a growing, key automotive market for Toyoda Gosei, where demand for products for safer mobility is rising. The companys exhibit will therefore center on safety systems, such as its various airbags and other products that protect vehicle occupants and pedestrians. The exhibit will include a concept model for compact battery EVs to show the companys technologies toward realizing new mobility around 2030. Main exhibits 1. Technology for safer mobility Front center airbag Installed beside the drivers seat, these airbags prevent front vehicle occupants from slipping through the seatbelt and hitting the door or other objects in side collisions, and lessen the impact when front occupants hit each other. Pop-up Hood Actuator The vehicle hood is lifted instantaneously during collisions with pedestrians, absorbing impacts to the head and other body parts by creating space between the hood and rigid components beneath it. Luminous Millimeter Wave Radar Compatible Emblem These emblems combine metallic coating technology and original optical design technology to provide both luminance and transparency to millimeter wave radar. 2. Technology toward realizing new mobility Flesby BEV concept A spacious cockpit is realized with the combination of airbags, seatbelts and a steering wheel that integrates the accelerator, brakes and other operating functions. The exterior features a sensing function that detects the vehicle surroundings and other technologies for autonomous driving. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250105141466/en/ FILE - President-elect Donald Trump speaks during a news conference at Mar-a-Lago, Dec. 16, 2024, in Palm Beach, Fla. Evan Vucci/AP Students walk on the University of Houston campus Monday, Jan. 24, 2022, in Houston. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer A student walks past a UTSA bench at the downtown campus as officials initiate the public portion of a $500M fundraising campaign, the largest in the university's history. University officials announced it to faculty and staff during two morning events on Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022. Kin Man Hui/Staff photographer Texas A&M University-San Antonio's incoming freshman class leaves from the fountain to walk down the "Miracle Mile" to the "Tower of Hope" at the main entrance during the school's annual Jaguar March, a student tradition, on Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2024. The march started in 2016 with TAMUSA's inaugural freshman class. Marvin Pfeiffer/Staff Photographer Some Texas universities are asking international students to return early from holiday travels as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office Jan. 20. The University of Houston and the University of Texas San Antonio and Dallas universities strongly encouraged students to arrive home as soon as Jan. 13 due to immigration-related uncertainties. Trump called for revoking international student visas of radical anti-American and anti-Semitic foreigners at our colleges and universities" after pro-Palestinian protests at several campuses and has proposed expanding the Muslim travel ban enacted in his prior administration. With the upcoming change in government and the uncertainty surrounding potential immigration policy changes, the safest way to avoid difficulty re-entering the United States is to be physically present before the new administration takes office, the University of Texas at San Antonios International Services office said in a November statement. We are recommending January 17 in case of unexpected travel delays which could delay your expected return. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The University of Houston asked students to return by the first day of the spring semester on Jan. 13, while UTD asked students to arrive before inauguration day Jan. 20. Arriving on time will help you meet reporting requirements and ensure that you are fully prepared to attend classes and focus on your academic success, the University of Houston told its students. Being present in Houston at the start of the semester can also help prevent any challenges related to travel or immigration that might otherwise create difficulties for you. International students are typically permitted into the United States under nonimmigrant F-1 or J-1 visa status, which allows students to live and work in the country in and around their course dates with approval from student advisors or program sponsors. Students must return to their home country within 60 days of their courses completion unless they participate in an Optional Practical Training or other work program. The United States hosted more than 1.1 million international students in the 2023-24 school year, according to an Institute of International Education survey, and Texas was one of the three most popular states for incoming students along with California and New York. Advertisement Article continues below this ad More than 5,000 international students attend the University of Houston, 10% of its total population, according to university data. Rice University hosts 2,275 international students, making up 13% of undergraduates and 41% of graduate students, school data shows. Officials said they are urging them to return to align with the start of the spring semester. "Rices spring semester begins Jan. 13, and the Office of International Students and Scholars has been actively reminding students of the importance of arriving by the first day of classes," spokesman Chris Stipes said in an email. "We are committed to providing our international students with accurate, timely travel information and ongoing support as they prepare for the new semester." While Trump floated a proposal to offer green cards to any college graduate in the country in a June podcast, some worried the president-elect will continue to push travel hurdles posed in his last administration. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In 2017, immigration attorney Claudine Gasana and other Houston-area lawyers flocked to George Bush Intercontinental Airport, where many international students and other visa holders were left stranded after Trump enacted a near-total ban on incoming travelers from seven predominantly Muslim countries. "Even non-immigration practicing lawyers (helped) because it was a lot of people waiting to come back in who were not allowed in the country. Some were detained," Gasana said. "I'm thinking universities are trying to anticipate, or maybe get ahead of, having issues with their students stranded across the world when they are supposed to come back in school." The previous administration also tightened visa restrictions for many Chinese students; Chinese authorities have echoed universities statements and advised students enrolled in the country to stay put ahead of the inauguration. Gasana's firm, Gasana Law Firm, has already seen an increase in calls from international students checking in on their visa's compliance. For a smooth reentry, Gasana said students must ensure that their I-20 forms are up to date, that they are in compliance with their student visa requirements, and that they have financial support for the remainder of their time in the United States. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Gasana recommended students whose visas have expired to avoid traveling abroad for several months in case of upcoming travel changes. A Washington orchard machinery company has asked a federal judge to declare that its not obligated to repurchase parts from another equipment dealer. Blueline Equipment of Yakima, Wash., has filed a federal lawsuit against RDO Equipment, a North Dakota-based dealer, related to the distribution of Gregoire machinery and parts. According to the lawsuit, equipment manufactured by Gregoire which isnt a party to the lawsuit was imported from France by Blueline, which then allowed RDO to distribute the equipment under an agreement signed in 2016. When RDO terminated that contract in 2022, the company requested that Blueline repurchase about $188,000 of Gregoire parts, the complaint said. Though RDO initially desisted from that demand, the company later upped the request to $220,000 and most recently to $660,000, the lawsuit alleges. RDO purchased most if not all this additional parts inventory not through or from Blueline but through or from other sources including Gregoire directly, the plaintiff said. The lawsuit claims that because RDO is not an equipment dealer in Washington, Blueline isnt obligated to repurchase the parts under a state law governing such agreements. The Washington law also doesnt apply because RDO lacked good cause to terminate the dealership agreement, since it sought to circumvent its relationship with Blueline and engage directly with Gregoire, the complaint said. Alternatively, the plaintiff alleges that RDO waived its right to demand the repurchase of parts and had failed to prove it actually bought the parts from Blueline. Apart from a declaration that Blueline isnt obligated to repurchase the parts, the lawsuit seeks compensation for the companys litigation expenses. Last year, Blueline filed a patent lawsuit against a Serbian equipment manufacturer, BSK, asking a federal judge to declare that it hadnt infringed on the other companys intellectual property. In that case, which remains pending, Blueline claims itd been falsely accused of misusing BSKs patent while building a fruit harvesting device. In an earlier cease-and-desist letter, BSK had accused Blueline of causing nearly $4 million in damages by infringing on the patent. U.S. President Joe Biden signs the Social Security Fairness Act during an event in the East Room of the White House on January 5, 2025 in Washington, DC. The legislation will expand Social Security benefits for millions of retired Americans, including firefighters, police officers and teachers. Kent Nishimura/Getty Images President Joe Biden on Sunday signed the Social Security Fairness Act, paving the way for nearly 3 million public workers to boost their Social Security benefits. The Social Security Fairness Act clears the way for teachers, firefighters, policeman and other public sector workers who also receive pension income to receive increases in their Social Security benefits. President Joe Biden, left, walks with Bette Marafino, president of the Connecticut Chapter of the Alliance for Retired Americans, to sign the Social Security Fairness Act in the East Room of the White House, Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, in Washington. Manuel Balce Ceneta/Associated Press NOROVIRUS ON THE RISE: What is norovirus and how can it be prevented? A UTHealth Houston expert explains. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "Almost 2.5 million Americans will now receive their rightfully earned Social Security benefits," said Bette Marafino, president of the Connecticut Chapter of the Alliance for Retired Americans, in a briefing Sunday at the White House alongside Biden. Marafino is a retired professor of English at Tunxis Community College in Connecticut and was part of a group who advocated for the change. "Americans who have worked hard all their lives to earn an honest living should be able to retire with economic security and dignity. Social security is the bedrock of financial security for retirees and survivors and for millions of Americans with disabilities. Public-sector employees, teachers, nurses, maintenance workers and more were working second jobs beyond their public service to make ends meet," Biden said. "The law that existed denied millions of Americans access to the full Social Security benefits that they earned, by thousands of dollars a year. That applies to surviving spouses as well." He said the increase would be an estimated average of $360 a month for nurses, teachers and other public service employees and their survivors. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "That's a big deal in middle-class households like the one I grew up in and many of you did," he said. "That's not all. Over 2.5 million Americans will receive a lump payment of thousands of dollars to make up for the shortfall in benefits that they should have gotten in 2024. That's a big deal. This victory is a culmination of a 40-year fight to provide security for workers who dedicate their lives to their communities." U.S. President Joe Biden looks on as Bette Marafino, President of the Connecticut Chapter of the Alliance for Retired Americans speaks during an event in the East Room of the White House ahead of the signing of the Social Security Fairness Act on January 5, 2025 in Washington, DC. The legislation will expand Social Security benefits for millions of retired Americans, including firefighters, police officers and teachers. Kent Nishimura/Getty Images According to CNBC reporting, the benefit boost comes as the new law repeals two provisions the Windfall Elimination Provision, or WEP, and the Government Pension Offset, or GPO that have been in place for more than four decades. The WEP reduces Social Security benefits for individuals who receive pension or disability benefits from employment where Social Security payroll taxes were not withheld. As of December 2023, that provision affected about 2 million Social Security beneficiaries. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The GPO reduces Social Security benefits for spouses, widows and widowers who also receive income from their own government pensions. In December 2023, the GPO affected almost 750,000 beneficiaries. The Social Security Fairness Act will affect Social Security benefits payable after December 2023. More details on how the benefit increase will be implemented were not yet available as of Monday morning. The Social Security Administration is evaluating how to implement the Act. According to the administration, at this time, those who could benefit do not need to take any action except to verify a current mailing address and direct deposit information if it has recently changed. Advertisement Sinoma CBMI Construction Co Ltd recently invited Hangzhou Oxygen Plant Group (Hangyang) to its Beijing headquarters for a strategic partnership discussion and signing ceremony. This milestone marks a new chapter in Sinomas collaboration in the low-carbon field, paving the way for deeper cooperation and shared innovation. As a global leader in Air Separation Unit (ASU) and cryogenic technologies, Hangzhou Oxygen brings cutting-edge expertise and solutions to the table, empowering sustainable development. Together, the two companies aim to leverage these advanced technologies to accelerate low-carbon transformations and drive impactful innovations in the industrial and cement sectors. Sinoma CBMI Construction Co Ltd is excited to unite its strengths with Hangzhou Oxygen and take bold steps toward low-carbon development and global market expansion. Arthur Andersen employees were also affected the Enron scandal. PAT SULLIVAN, STF / AP The very unserious company that took over the defunct Enron brand on Monday unveiled its supposedly "groundbreaking" product: the Enron Egg. But the Enron Egg is no normal egg, company leadership claimed the device is a "micro-nuclear reactor" capable of powering entire homes. Enron CEO Connor Gaydos made the announcement in a video that the company claimed was from the Enron Power Summit, an event for which the Chronicle was unable to confirm the location, date or time. Gaydos, the 28-year-old behind the satirical conspiracy theory "Birds Aren't Real," claimed the Enron Egg could continuously power a home for 10 years. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "Ladies and gentlemen, we have harnessed the power of the atom, introducing the Enron egg, the world's first micro nuclear reactor for residential, suburban use," Gaydos said in the video. "This little device can power your entire home for up to 10 continuous years." Gaydos and Enron have made lofty promises for the companys supposed return in what has appeared to be a publicity stunt thus far. Skeptics have pointed to a clause on Enron's website labeling its content as parody. Gaydos addressed that criticism in a post on X made Friday afternoon. "As if I didn't know people would immediately find that in our Terms of Service. People sharing it around like they're forest gumbo discovering the shrimp business," Gaydos wrote. "Putting performance art in our terms of service is the highest IQ behavior possible in the age of rogue government bureaucrat witch hunts." Gaydos claims the Enron Egg is safe for in-home use because it has 20% enriched uranium, which is below the 90% threshold typically used in nuclear weapons, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists, a public policy organization geared toward the responsible and ethical application of science. Uranium that is 20% enriched is still classified as "highly enriched uranium" and can still be used in weapons, according to the union. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "Weapons-grade HEU is typically enriched to 90 percent uranium-235 or more, but all HEU can potentially be used to make nuclear weapons with sufficient quantity and expertise," the union wrote in a blog post. "In addition, despite a widespread belief that high-assay low-enriched uranium cannot be used directly in a nuclear weapon, independent analysis strongly suggests that it is weapon-usable, although the required quantities are larger than for weapons-grade HEU." Despite this, Gaydos claimed he has personally used an Enron Egg to power his own home and that his kids "freaking love it," and that his family used it on camping trips. Gaydos also claimed Enron has teamed up with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide Enron Eggs to rapid response teams around the world. The Chronicle reached out to FEMA but the agency was not immediately available for comment. Enron's chief technology officer, Daniel Wong, claimed the device can run continuously for 10 years before needing to be refueled. "Each unit provides a reliable output of 200 amps, delivering continuous power for up to 10 years before requiring refueling," Wong said. "At the heart of the egg lies a uranium zirconium hydride fueled reactor chosen for its safety and efficiency. The nuclear reactor is precisely regulated by nine ball run control drums located around the perimeter to maintain ballast and stability." Advertisement Article continues below this ad While company leadership's claims regarding the Enron Egg appear significant, neither Gaydos nor Wong shared any information regarding the company's plan to address the strict licensing and regulatory processes that govern operating a nuclear reactor. Ernest Hamilton "Buddy" Parks designed boilers, shepherded a church community, maintained historic Chattanooga buildings, and wowed friends and family with the intricate model boats he built. He died Saturday at Regency House Assisted Living in Hixson, Tennessee, at 92. The boats that occupied his time during his final years bear witness to the passions, skills and character that marked his entire life. Three long shelves and two glass cases at Hixson's Morning Pointe Senior Living, where he moved with his wife Mackie in 2018, displayed more than 20 meticulously crafted wooden boats he built. Some boats were 48 inches long. While most had radio-controlled electric motors, genuine steam engines powered two. Many were replicas of historic water craft. The Geo. W. Washburn, for example, reproduces a steam-powered tug launched in 1890 to ply the Hudson River. "In her early days, she was one of the fastest tugboats on the Hudson," reads a plaque beside the display. Exquisite details bolster the realism of the model Washburn. A miniature chrome searchlight sits atop the bridge. Further aft, two black smoke stacks rise from the deck, secured by multiple lines of thread-like rigging. The black hull gives way to red below the water line, with the tug's single bronze screw positioned just in front of the rudder at the stern. In a 2022 Chattanooga Times Free Press story, Parks said that he turned to model boats once Mackie's health no longer allowed the couple to enjoy bigger ones. "It gave me an outlet to continue my love of boats," Parks told the Times Free Press. The Morning Pointe residence allowed him to convert a storage space beside his and Mackie's apartment into a workshop. He spent hours in the shop, especially after Mackie died in August 2020. Soon Parks had built so many boats that he began to worry about where to put them. He approached Morning Pointe about building shelves. The residence's corporate owner, Independent Healthcare Properties, said yes. Parks likely had some extra pull. He had worked for the company 15 years, using his mechanical skill, eye for detail and determination to see projects through as building supervisor and consultant. His tenure was part of a second career that put him in charge of some of Chattanooga's architectural treasures. After retiring from Combustion Engineering in the mid-1980s, Parks worked with Bob Corker, whose real estate portfolio included such notable structures as the James Building, built in 1907, and the Volunteer Building, finished a decade later. Parks assisted Corker with a variety of projects from the early 1990s until the early 2000s. "He literally thought the world of him," a family member in touch with Corker after Parks' death reported about the business leader. Corker served as Chattanooga mayor from 2001 to 2005 and U.S. Senator from 2007 to 2018. Parks also managed the Dome Building, constructed by Chattanooga Times and New York Times publisher Adolph S. Ochs between 1888 and 1892. Described as "one of the city's outstanding landmarks" in the property's application for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places, to which the National Park Service added it in 1978. Greg Vital, who co-founded Morning Pointe Senior Living in 1997 with Franklin Farrow, was a previous owner of the prominent structure. "Buddy was a faithful maintenance and preservation steward of the Dome Building," Vital said, adding that Parks also oversaw the restoration and preservation of a nearby building, the Customs House. Likewise on the National Register, the structure houses the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. "There was nothing he could not fix or figure out how to keep running," Vital said. "Always a consummate gentleman, he was also a perfectionist for maintaining the standards of Morning Pointe." Parks was born in Chattanooga on March 3, 1932, into a family of contractors. His father, Ernest Hamilton Parks, Sr., worked in the trade, and his grandfather, John Parks, built the Tivoli Theater between 1919 and 1921 and Chattanooga's Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium between 1922 and 1924. It was at East Lake Junior High that Parks met Mackie Sue Roberts. He went on to Central High School, while Mackie attended Chattanooga High. They married in 1953. After Parks graduated from the University of Chattanooga in 1955 with a bachelor's in Engineering Physics and a commission as Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, the young family moved to Oklahoma, where Parks served as instructor at Fort Sill. Raised a Baptist, Parks became a member of Churches of Christ the year he married. He attended East Ridge Church of Christ, where he was a deacon, then Hixson Church of Christ, where he served as church elder for 25 years. The Hixson church provided the engineer and future modeler fresh opportunities to apply his talents. "He was very detail-oriented," recalled Pat Roark, a fellow elder and friend. Roark singled out Parks' particular concern for the church's physical plant. He recalled his friend's leadership when the congregation renovated its campus, transforming a long, double-barreled auditorium into a gym and multipurpose area and constructing a new worship space. But Parks paid attention to much more than pews and carpet colors. He "was very good about visiting people," Roark said, adding that Parks "definitely wanted to do what the scriptures called for. "It was hard on you to serve as an elder. There was a lot of coming and going in the eldership," Roark recalled, adding that at one point only the two of them were left to attend the spiritual needs of 350 congregants. In Churches of Christ, which believe in a plurality of elders rather than leadership by a lone pastor, two elders were the bare minimum. The two would meet every Wednesday night to discuss the congregation's needs. The following morning, they would check in to be sure the last night's decisions were the best ones. "They were good friends of ours," Roark said of his fellow elder and his wife Mackie. "He was a very good man." Parks is survived by his son, Ted; his daughter, Susan Tuckniss (Philip); four grandchildren: Andrew Rogers (Heather), Aden St. Charles and Benjamin (Emily) and Jacob Parks; and five great grandchildren: Jackson, Ella, and Hadley Rogers and Pax and Mabry St. Charles. The family will receive friend from 1-3 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 7, at the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 7, in the funeral home chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Hearth Hospice, whose staff compassionately attended to Parks. The family also wishes to express special thanks to Regency House, where Parks spent his final days. To share your memories of Parks, please visit www.chattanooganorthchapel.com . Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, Tn. 37343. Here are the new business licenses from the County Clerk's office: 601 EAST MAIN, LLC ROB ROBINSON 601 E MAIN ST CHATTANOOGA TN 37408 CAMBIUM CRAFT LOGAN J BAUGHMAN 3500 DODDS AVE STE B CHATTANOOGA TN 37407 CAMI DALE'S SNACK SHOPPE, LLC CAMERON D HOPKINS 398 SEQUOIA DR CHATTANOOGA TN 37411 DREAM PROGRAM TRACI EASTMAN 7342 MCCORMACK DR HIXSON TN 37343 ECOCRAFT DESIGNS LLC THERESA ZURN 4388 SAILMAKER CIR CHATTANOOGA TN 37416 GLOWFIELD ENTERTAINMENT TIMOTHY G COFIELD 3201 EASTON AVE CHATTANOOGA TN 37415 HYPERION ARBOR SERVICES LLC CHRISTOPHER H BROECKER 977 CASTLE FALLS DR NE ATLANTA GA 30329 INCOME TAX SERVICES WEYLIN B DYER 5622 HIGHWAY 153 HIXSON TN 37343 JABRYCE INFLATABLES FOR FUN CARNELL D STARLING 3505 BRAINERD RD STE 5 CHATTANOOGA TN 37411 JASMINE'S WALLET JASMINE D BELL 127 GOODSON AVE APT 6 CHATTANOOGA TN 37405 JOHN'S PRO PAINTING JUAN LOARCA 8227 SADDLEBACK CIR OOLTEWAH TN 37363 K & A ELECTRIC, LLC KENNETH ASH 6747 N HIGHWAY 27 LA FAYETTE GA 30728 LEA VEL SERVICIOS LLC LUIS SAMAYRA 3661 BRAINERD RD #301 CHATTANOOGA TN 37411 LUCKY FORTUNE WILLIAM D BURLESON 4762 HIGHWAY 58 STE 128 CHATTANOOGA TN 37416 MARKESHA BRADFORD TRANSPORTATION MARKESHA BRADFORD 7005 SENTINEL LN HARRISON TN 37341 MOSSY BOULDER LLC MICHAEL AUDU 1204 WOOD PINES LN HIXSON TN 37343 STEPHANIE PONS INTERIOR DESIGN STEPHANIE M PONS 4718 FLORIDA AVE CHATTANOOGA TN 37409 SYMVARA LLC LOGAN T BATEMAN 5282 KELLOGG CREEK TRL APT 110 OOLTEWAH TN 37363 TARA ANDERSON TARA L ANDERSON 933 E 11TH ST CHATTANOOGA TN 37403 THE BAKERY DANTE A SANTANA 9408 APISON PK STE 162 COLLEGEDALE TN 37315 THE PRESENCE PROJECT JESSICA M JOLLIE 1205 TAFT HWY SIGNAL MOUNTAIN TN 37377 WILLIAM ALBELLAR CONSTRUCTION WILLIAM ALBELLAR SARDINA 23 WOODARD CIR CHATTANOOGA TN 37412 XANDERS TRUCKING ANTWAN ALEXANDER 4718 ROBINWOOD DR CHATTANOOGA TN 37416 With the speculation that the 2026 Tennessee gubernatorial race is already starting to heat up how does the Volunteer Chief of States position (term limited) relate back to the 1925 Scopes Monkey Trial of 1925? It would endanger ones physical safety and health to infer that there may be more than one political monkey in the 2026 contest in light of the size of the potential contenders who may be the favorite choice of the present occupant of the mansion at Curtis Wood Lane in Music City. The role of the gov in Dayton, Tennessee in July 1925 was caused by the thoughtful action of the 132 members of the Tennessee General Assembly. Unlike the present lame duck official who seems determined to replace our public school system with a school voucher program which has failed in other states (I didnt say it) resistance by the same legislative body in March 1925 did not exist. Austin Peay (1876-1927) was the 35th governor of Tennessee from 1923-1927 and was the first one to die in office. In March 1925 he signed the anti-evolution (Butler Act) into law that enacted the legislation for the Scopes Trial that took place in July 1925 in Dayton, Tennessee as the Monkey Trial. Governor Peay (as did a lot of politicians) did not participate in the trial but had a visible present. However prior to the start of evidence being presented to the jury the defense through attorney Arthur G. Hayes attempted to introduce into evidence a certified copy of the message from the governor (Peay) approving this bill on the ground that the message of the governor signing the has a bearing on the public policy of this state. Of course the prosecution by District Attorney General Thomas Stewart objected on the grounds that the document was not competent under the law. Governor Peay was quoted as saying: "It will be seen that this bill does not require any particular theory or interpretation of the Bible regarding man's creation to be taught in the public schools. We know that creeds and religions are commonly founded in the different refinements and interpretations of the Bible. It seems to me that the two laws are entirely consistent. The widest latitude of interpretation will re- main as to the time and manner of God's processes in His creation of man." Another part says: "After careful examination I can find nothing of consequence in the books now being taught in our schools with which this bill will interfere in the slightest manner. Therefore, it will not put our teachers in any jeopardy. Probably the law will never be applied. It may not be sufficiently definite to permit of any specific application or enstatute. Judge John T. Raulston did not allow the governors actions or statements to be heard by the twelve (12) person lay jury on the ground that his opinion of what the law means, whether or not it would be enforced is of no consequence at all in the court and could not have any bearing and I exclude the statement. (The defense strategy from the beginning of the legal proceeding was to get a ruling on the constitutionality of the anti-evolution that could be appealed to the United States Supreme Court. The benefits to the City of Dayton, Tennessee arising out of the trial from an economic standpoint was the initial objective of many of the originators to initiate a criminal prosecution.) ---- 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) Synovus has named Jim Vaughn as its Chattanooga market executive. He joins Synovus from Mauldin & Jenkins.Mr. Vaughn will lead the company's Chattanooga banking teams in delivering financial solutions for clients while driving business development and growth and supporting community outreach initiatives. He will report to Bill Davies, market executive for northwest Georgia at Synovus.Jim brings extensive financial expertise, professional knowledge and strategic leadership to this role, said Mr.Davies. His work with diverse businesses and industries will be beneficial in building relationships, reinforcing our commitment to Chattanooga and enabling our clients to reach their full potential.Before joining Synovus, Mr. Vaughn was a partner at Mauldin & Jenkins, where he worked for 25 years. He held various leadership roles at the accounting firm, including leading its financial services practice and serving on its executive, advisory, leadership and career advisory committees. Mr. Vaughn provided advisory and CPA services to financial institutions, nonprofits, hedge funds, transportation companies and other Tennessee small- and medium-sized businesses.Mr. Vaughn is involved in the Chattanooga community, serving as chairman of the Cherokee Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America Board of Directors and of the Rollins College of Business Advisory Board. He earned a bachelors in business administration in accounting and finance from Georgia Southern University. Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce officials said they will present to the City Council on Tuesday new guidelines on PILOT (Payment in lieu of Taxes) tax breaks for businesses and industries. Adam Myers, Chamber vice president, told the city Industrial Development Board on Monday that the City Council would be asked to approve the document the following Tuesday. He said there will still be a requirement that 100 percent of school taxes must be paid as well as stormwater fees. To be eligible there must be at least 100 new jobs. Total investment must be $20 million on manufacturing and at least $5 million on office projects. Mr. Myers said the latter requirement is included to cover lower-cost retrofitting of existing buildings. Workers must be paid at least 80 percent of the average local wage. There would be a higher score where the local wage is at 100 percent. The abatement in the first year would be 100 percent, 75 percent in the second year, 60 percent in the third year and 50 percent in succeeding years. A project asking for a PILOT of more than 10 years would go before the City Council. Mr. Myers said officials here are targeting businesses in advanced manufacturing, professional services, future technologies and software and information technology. The resolution before the City Council says: Industrial Development Board of City of Chattanooga Policies and Procedures for Payment-in-lieu-of-Tax Transactions Section I. General Purpose and Eligible Projects* 1. Purpose. The City of Chattanooga, Tennessee (the City) is committed to improving the local business environment and economy. In furtherance of this objective, the City has previously formed the Industrial Development Board of City of Chattanooga (the IDB). The IDB is a public nonprofit corporation established pursuant to the Tennessee Industrial Development Corporation Act (the Act), Tenn. Code Ann. 7-53-101 et seq. The IDBs statutory purposes include financing, owning and leasing certain real and personal properties, which will have the effect of maintaining and increasing employment and otherwise promoting new industry, commerce and trade in Tennessee and in particular, in the City. In order to promote economic growth in the City, the IDB will consider requests from Applicants to make payments in lieu of taxes (PILOTs) instead of paying property taxes. PILOTs are generally less than regular property taxes and lower the property tax expense for a business that is locating or expanding in the City. Section 7-53-305 of the Act grants authority to the IDB to negotiate, accept and waive PILOTs but only upon receipt of a formal delegation of such authority from the City. The City Council of the City has provided such formal delegation by adopting a resolution delegating to the IDB the authority to negotiate and accept PILOTs that comply with these Policies and Procedures (these Policies). If an Applicant for a PILOT incentive requests a PILOT the terms of which do not comply with these Policies, the IDB may still accept such Application and shall follow the procedures set forth in these Policies, but any such PILOT incentive shall not be provided by the IDB unless the City Council of the City has adopted a resolution delegating to the IDB the authority to negotiate such PILOT incentive. Although under the provisions of the Act, the IDB may also agree with an Applicant to receive PILOTs in lieu of taxes that would otherwise be payable to Hamilton County (the County) without any action by the County, the IDB will not negotiate any PILOT incentive that would result in a reduction of the amounts that the County would otherwise receive as property taxes unless (i) the County has approved the terms of the particular PILOT incentive with respect to property taxes that otherwise would be payable to the County or (ii) the County Commission of the County has approved a resolution authorizing the IDB to negotiate PILOT incentives on the terms provided in these Policies in a manner comparable to the delegating resolution from City Council. For purposes of these Policies, an incentive provided by the IDB through a PILOT that results in the payment of a PILOT that is less than the property taxes that otherwise would be payable with respect to the applicable property is referred to herein as a PILOT incentive. These Policies shall not be construed to require the City or the IDB to approve a PILOT incentive for any Person. Granting a PILOT incentive as to City property taxes that is authorized by these Policies is solely within the discretion of the IDB acting within the parameters of these Policies. Granting a PILOT incentive as to City property taxes that is beyond the scope of these Policies is solely within the discretion of the City Council of the City. In order, however, to inform potential Applicants for PILOT incentives of the specific criteria that the IDB will consider in evaluating Applications for PILOT incentives and the * Capitalized terms used in these Policies and Procedures that are not otherwise defined shall have the meanings given to such terms in Section VIII. process that will be undertaken with respect to such incentives, and to satisfy the delegation requirements of the Act, the City and the IDB have approved these Policies to provide guidelines for evaluating requests for PILOT incentives. 2. Eligible Projects. The Act defines the types of projects as to which the IDB is authorized to undertake and as to which the IDB is legally authorized to provide a PILOT incentive. Notwithstanding the broad list of such projects in the Act, the IDB will only approve PILOT incentives for the following types of projects: a. Industrial facilities that manufacture, assemble, process or fabricate agricultural, mining or other products. b. Distribution facilities that receive and distribute goods. c. Office buildings and service facilities. In addition to the foregoing limitation, any project must also be in a target industry sector as defined by the current five-year strategic plan of the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce (the Chamber) or as defined by the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development. Section II. Overview of PILOT Structure Property tax abatement in Tennessee cannot be achieved solely by legislative or administrative action of the City because of certain limitations in the Tennessee Constitution. In other words, the City Council of the City cannot unilaterally grant tax abatement. In order to implement tax abatement for a Project, and to permit an Applicant to reduce its property taxes by making PILOTs, the Project that is the subject of the PILOT incentive must be conveyed to the IDB and leased back to the Applicant. The following is a general description of the terms of a typical PILOT transaction. 1. Conveyance to IDB. To implement a PILOT transaction, the IDB must take title to the Project. The conveyance to the IDB is usually consummated by the Applicants execution and delivery to the IDB of a deed conveying any real property to the IDB and a bill of sale conveying any personal property to IDB. 2. Lease and PILOT Agreement. Upon the conveyance of property, the IDB simultaneously enters into a lease agreement and an agreement with respect to PILOTs (the PILOT Agreement) with the Applicant whereby the Applicant leases the conveyed property from the IDB and the Applicant agrees to make payments in lieu of taxes. The lease will be a triple net lease whereby the Applicant is responsible for all maintenance, repair, taxes, and insurance. Other than such commitments and the PILOTs, the rent under such a lease is nominal, and the lease is generally not considered a true lease for federal tax purposes (i.e. tax ownership remains with the lessee). The lease and the PILOT Agreement will contain specific provisions as to a number of matters including the following: a. Payment-in-Lieu Taxes Because the property is exempt from property taxation while owned by the IDB, the IDB and the Applicant will agree upon a schedule of PILOTs to be paid under the PILOT Agreement. Such schedule will determined in the manner shown in Exhibit A. b. Purchase Option In the lease, the IDB will grant to the Applicant the right to purchase the Project at any time during the term of the lease by payment of a nominal sum. Upon such a purchase, the PILOT incentive shall terminate. c. Additional Improvements and Equipment The PILOT incentive will only be applicable to the initial Project (as such term is defined in the definitions in Section VIII) as described in the Lease and not to additional improvements made (such as expansions) or equipment added after the initial Project is placed in service. Any PILOT incentive as to an expansion or equipment acquired after the Project is placed in service would be considered under a separate Application by the IDB. d. Adjustments to PILOTs The PILOT Agreement will provide that if the Applicant does not achieve the employment, capital investment and average wages projected in the Applicants Application, the Applicants PILOT will be increased on an annual basis to reflect Applicants actual results as described in more detail in Section V. e. Indemnity/Insurance The lease will require the Applicant to indemnify the IDB for all matters relating to the Project (except matters resulting from the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the IDB) and maintain certain insurance (including commercial liability insurance, casualty insurance and workers compensation insurance) with respect to the Project. If the Applicant typically self insures as to certain risks, the IDB may consider allowing the Applicant to self insure those same risks, but the IDB, in its discretion and upon the advice of its counsel, may require insurance. f. Limited liability of IDB Any liability of the IDB under the lease shall be limited to its interest in the leased Project. g. Assignment and Subletting The Applicant will not have the right to sublet the Project or any part thereof or assign or otherwise transfer its rights under any PILOT incentive except with the prior written consent of the IDB upon the terms provided in the lease and PILOT Agreement. 3. Financing In many cases the Applicant will need to use the property leased from the IDB as collateral for financing. The lease will provide that the IDB will cooperate with the Applicant and its lender in assuring the lender that the lender has a first priority lien on the leased property provided that the documentation does not place any obligation or liability on the IDB beyond its interest in the Project. 4. Ground Leases If the Project is located on property that is the subject of a ground lease, a PILOT incentive can still be achieved, but the documentation will need to include a sublease to the IDB of the ground lease. 5. Personal Property The IDB can offer tax abatements for personal property as well as real property for eligible Projects through a PILOT incentive. Any personal property can be leased pursuant to the same lease as any real property or pursuant to a separate lease. If the real property and personal property that constitute a Project would otherwise be owned by separate entities, separate leases will be used, and both such entities should jointly be the Applicant for the PILOT incentive. The lease will require the Applicant to clearly identify the personal property that is included under the lease and to provide annual bills of sale under which personal property is conveyed to the IDB. Personal property shall not include inventory or other similar assets. 6. Requirement of Economic Inducement A PILOT incentive is intended to be an inducement for a new or existing business to commence or expand its business operations, and to induce businesses to create jobs in the City. If a business has already made a decision to undertake a Project without the IDBs prior inducement, then, in such event, the PILOT incentive did not constitute an inducement or incentive for the Applicants decision to undertake the Project. If an Applicant has already contracted for or made binding arrangements to accomplish any of the foregoing prior to submitting its Application to the IDB, and there is no condition in any such contract related to the granting of the PILOT incentive, then a PILOT incentive will not be available for the Project. 7. Expansions of Existing Facilities. If the Applicants proposed Project relates to the expansion of a facility (an Expansion), the PILOT incentive will apply only to the Expansion. If the Expansion is on the same tax parcel as an existing facility, the entire tax parcel will need to be conveyed to the IDB, and the lessee will agree to make PILOTs equal to the taxes that would otherwise have been assessed on the existing facility plus the PILOT payment, if any, related to the Expansion. For purposes of clarification, existing businesses operating in City are eligible to apply for a PILOT incentive under these Policies with respect to any Expansion of the existing business. For purposes of the information provided in an Application for an Expansion, the information provided therein as to the projections requested therein shall relate only to the Expansion and not the existing business, although Applicants for Expansion are encouraged to provide additional information regarding the Applicants existing business. 8. Commencement of Lease Term; Project Completion. The term for a PILOT incentive relating to each Project determined in accordance with Exhibit A shall commence not later than the first full calendar year after completion of the Project. A Project shall generally be deemed completed when it is placed in service for the purposes for which the Project is being undertaken. The PILOT lease will establish an outside date for the completion of the Project based upon an Applicants anticipated completion date, subject to excusable delay, provided that the completion date shall not exceed three years unless the Applicant demonstrates unusual factors as to a Project that require an extended completion date. Section III. Term and Amount of PILOT The factors that will be used in determining the term of the PILOT incentive and the amount of the PILOT incentive is provided in Exhibit A attached hereto and made part of these Policies. As more particularly described in Exhibit A, the four general factors to be considered for Projects are: a. Jobs. An important factor will be the number of jobs that are created due to the proposed Project. The Applicant must anticipate creating at least 100 new jobs to be considered for a PILOT incentive. b. Wages. Another important factor to be considered will be the average wages to be paid by the Applicants and whether such average wage encourages economic mobility. An Applicants projected average wage for the additional jobs created by a Project must be no less than 80% of the current annual Hamilton County average wage as reported by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. c. Capital Investment. The capital investment made by an Applicant in the land, building, site preparation, equipment and any other capital assets relating to the Project will be another factor considered by the IDB. An Applicant for a PILOT incentive for a manufacturing or distribution facilities must project at least a $20 million capital investment, and an Applicant for a PILOT incentive for office or service facilities must project at least a $5 million capital investment. d. Special Considerations. The IDB may, in its discretion, give special consideration to, and award additional incentive points to, an Applicant under Exhibit A attached hereto, in the following circumstances: (a) construction or renovation in connection with the Project results in building design and equipment that significantly reduces energy consumption. Documentation of LEED Certification or an equivalent standard of attainment shall be required; (b) the proposed Project will be located in or directly adjacent to a specially designated economic development area (as defined below) identified or certified by the federal or state government or the City or County; (c) the Applicant agrees to provide a specific and measurable community benefit commitment by providing career pathways and upskilling opportunities for employees, creating apprenticeships or workforce development programs in partnership with the local community, utilizing contractors and suppliers from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, or supporting talent and education initiatives through partnerships with Hamilton County Schools and local higher-education institutions; (d) the Applicant agrees to cooperate with local communities impacted by its Project, (e) the Applicant agrees to provide to its employees substantive work benefits to local employees (health, paid sick leave, childcare services, etc.) and/or agrees to provide apprenticeship programs for project construction; and/or (f) an Applicant demonstrates industry leading or otherwise exceptional performance in promoting the rights and welfare of employees and local communities. A demonstrated pattern of poor corporate and environmental practices and/or violations of law by an Applicant or any of its principal owners or similar considerations shall be grounds for not approving or recommending any Application. A specially designated economic development area includes a renewal community zone as defined by HUD; federal empowerment zone, state enterprise zone, opportunity zone, new markets tax credit eligible census tracts, such other similar zones indicating economic distress or disadvantage as may be designated by the federal, state or local governments, or a remediated Brownfield site identified by the Environmental Protection Agency or Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation. Section IV. PILOT Application 1. Application. Any person desiring that the IDB consider a PILOT incentive shall complete and submit the Application for PILOT incentive attached hereto as Exhibit B. The Application shall be filed with the IDB no later than 21 days prior to the IDB meeting at which the Application for PILOT will be considered (unless waived by the IDB). A summary of the process for PILOT Applications is outlined in Exhibit C. After submitting its Application, the Applicant should expect completion of a preliminary review of the Application by staff of the Chamber and the City (and the County if County taxes will be affected by the PILOT incentive) within two weeks after submitting same. Upon completion of the preliminary staff review, and upon the Applicant responding to any additional requests for information from staff, staff shall submit the Application to the IDB for consideration. If the IDB approves the Application, the IDB will instruct an attorney designated by it to prepare the lease, PILOT Agreement and other documentation relating to the incentive. An Applicant should retain its own legal counsel in connection with the documentation of the PILOT incentive. No PILOT incentive shall be effective until the IDB and the Applicant have approved all documentation and such documentation has been executed. 2. No Obligation. Nothing within these guidelines shall imply or suggest that the IDB or any political subdivision of the State of Tennessee is under any obligation to provide a PILOT incentive in any amount or value to any Applicant. Section V. Post-Closing Monitoring Through the use of the PILOT incentive, the IDB intends to produce measurable improvements to the economy of the City. Accordingly, each PILOT Agreement with an Applicant will contain certain provisions to assure that the PILOT incentive is consistent with the job creation, wage levels and capital expenditures actually accomplished, and not just projected, by the Applicant. The IDB will annually evaluate each Project receiving a PILOT incentive to measure whether levels of job creation, wages and capital investment projected in the Applicants Application have been achieved. In order to assist the IDB in such evaluation, the Applicant shall agree in the PILOT Agreement to provide to the IDB certain information annually in the manner described in the PILOT Agreement, which information shall include, but not be limited to, the information regarding the Applicants then current number of jobs, wages and capital investment. The form of an annual report to be filed with the IDB will be attached as an exhibit to the PILOT Agreement. If any such report or other information obtained by the IDB reveals that the Applicant has not met the projections in the Applicants Application, the IDB will have such remedies as are provided in the PILOT Agreement. The specific remedies will be set out in the PILOT Agreement, but, generally, if an Applicant fails in any year to meet the job, wage or capital expenditure projections submitted in its Application for a Project and upon which the PILOT term and amount was determined, the Applicant should expect that the Applicants PILOT incentive would be proportionately reduced in that year. The Applicants lease and PILOT Agreement may provide for phased-in compliance consistent with the Applicants projections, if approved by the IDB, provided that the Applicants projections must be fully met by the fifth full calendar year after the completion of any Project. If an Applicant is awarded any incentive points pursuant to Exhibit A for the special factors described in Section III, the Applicant will be deemed in default under the PILOT Agreement if the Applicant does not achieve the such special factors to the extent such special factors can be objectively monitored. Such a default could result in the termination of the PILOT Agreement. Section VI. Fees Payable to the IDB for Projects Requesting Incentives 1. Application Fee. An Application fee of $1,000 must accompany any Application. The Application fee is non-refundable. The Application fee shall be deducted from the closing fee described below if the PILOT transaction is closed. 2. Closing Fees. Upon execution of a PILOT Agreement, the Applicant will pay a closing fee. The closing fee will be 5% of the tax savings projected by the IDB resulting from the PILOT incentive, but the fee will be no less than $2,500 and no more than $10,000. The closing fee is for reimbursement of the costs and expenses of the IDB, and it also may be used for other economic development programs as from time to time are approved by the IDB. 3. Expenses. The Applicant will pay any and all costs related to Applicants Application of PILOT incentive including, but not limited to, the IDBs attorney fees and any recording fees. The IDBs approved attorney shall prepare the necessary documentation for the PILOT incentive. The IDBs attorneys fees shall be paid at closing, provided, however, in the event a PILOT incentive closing does not occur for any reason or is delayed for an extended period, the Applicant agrees to pay all of the above mentioned fees and expenses of the IDB at such time. 4. Economic Development Fees. For each calendar year in which an Applicant makes a PILOT as to a Project that is less than the taxes that would otherwise be payable with respect to the Project, the Applicant shall also pay a fee, that is referred to herein as Economic Development Payment. The Economic Development Payment shall be calculated in the manner provided in the PILOT Agreement but shall generally equal 15% of the amount that would otherwise be payable as taxes with respect to the Project to the Citys general fund if the PILOT incentive was not in effect (with a commensurate payment to the County if the Countys property taxes are affected by the PILOT incentive). 5. Amendments. Applicant shall be responsible for any and all costs associated with amendments to any PILOT incentive documents or to any other documents or agreements associated with the PILOT incentive, including any documents relating to Applicants financing. Section VII. Conflicts of Interest and Ethical Standards Each IDB director shall be responsible for disclosing any material interest which he or she may have in or with an Applicant or any proposed Project. Any IDB director having any material interest in a project or a financial or family relationship with an Applicant or sponsor or financing source for a Project shall submit to the IDBs counsel a representation of that interest, and the IDBs counsel shall make a preliminary determination of whether the director should recuse himself/herself from consideration of the Application. In the event the director disagrees with the IDBs counsels decision, then the IDBs counsel shall submit the potential conflict of interest to the IDB for final determination, which shall be made in accordance with the applicable laws regarding conflicts of interest. If recusal is deemed appropriate, the IDB will then consider the Application without participation from the director who has been recused. No director of the IDB shall disclose confidential information acquired by him or her in the course of his or her official duties as a director of the IDB nor use such information to further his or her personal interests. Section VIII. Definitions For purposes of these Policies, the following terms shall have the following meanings: Applicant means the Person applying to the IDB to enter into a lease that would include a PILOT incentive with respect to a Project. Application means the Application submitted to an IDB by an Applicant to receive a PILOT incentive. Payment-In-Lieu-of Taxes or PILOT means payments established by the IDB to be made in lieu of ad valorem taxes with respect to a Project. Person means any individual or entity. Project means buildings, structures, machinery, equipment, or land identified in the Application and described in the lease from the IDB to the Applicant. The Project may include the addition of the buildings, structures, machinery, or equipment that is committed by the Applicant to be started within three years (or such later date as may be approved by the IDB upon special circumstances demonstrated by the Applicant not to exceed five years) of the PILOT Agreement. Any expansion undertaken beyond the approved implementation period will require a new Application to be filed at the time said expansion is planned as is described in Section II above. Section IX. Miscellaneous These Policies shall not be construed to create any type of contract or agreement between the IDB and any third party, including any Applicant. Notwithstanding any provision of these Policies to the contrary, the IDB retains the right, in its sole discretion, not to enter into any lease or PILOT Agreement with any Applicant and not to approve any Application for a PILOT incentive. If any Applicant does not enter into a lease with respect to a proposed Project within one year of the initial approval by the IDB of the Applicants Application for a PILOT incentive, that Applicants Application shall be deemed to be withdrawn, and the Applicant shall be required to resubmit a new Application if the Applicant wants the IDB to continue to consider the Applicants Project for a PILOT incentive. Section X. Modifications Any modification or amendment of these Policies must be approved by the City and by the IDB. EXHIBIT A CRITERIA USED TO DETERMINE ELIGIBILITY FOR AND TERM AND AMOUNT OF PILOT INCENTIVE Overview. The term and amount of a PILOT incentive for any Project will be based upon the number of incentive points for a particular Project in accordance with Section III of these Policies and this Exhibit. A minimum of four incentive points is required to be eligible for a PILOT incentive for a Project. The term and amount of a PILOT will be based on the amount of points awarded with one point representing one year of abatement. Special factors may also be considered pursuant to Section III of the Policies and Procedures and pursuant to the chart below. The maximum period for a PILOT incentive as to any portion of a Project is ten (10) years unless otherwise approved by City Council. The factors that will be used in determining the number of incentive points and the term and amount of the PILOT incentive are shown on the chart and information on the following page. Term and Amount of PILOT Incentive The term of the PILOT incentive shall be based upon the number of incentive points awarded as described above. The PILOT incentive shall effectively provide for a percentage of property tax abatement consistent with the following schedule: Year 1: 100% abatement Year 2: 75% abatement Year 3: 60% abatement Year 4 and beyond: 50% abatement Summary of PILOT Application Process 1. Before submitting an Application, an Applicant should arrange a pre-application conference with the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce to discuss the Application process and whether the Applicants Project may qualify for a PILOT incentive. If the Applicants Project may qualify for a PILOT incentive, the Applicant may submit the Application and supporting documentation to the Chambers staff. 2. The Chambers staff will perform all necessary due diligence and prepare a report to the economic development staff representatives of the City and the County (if the Countys property taxes will be affected by the requested PILOT incentive). The Chambers staff will provide the City and the County, if applicable, the recommended terms of the PILOT incentive based on these Policies. If the Chambers staff determines that an economic impact analysis would be helpful to its analysis of a Project, the Chamber may procure an economic impact analysis from a firm with recognized expertise in public sector economic analysis. 3. Prior to submitting an Application to the IDB for consideration, the Chambers staff shall consider input from the City and the Countys Mayors and staff. Prior to submitting an Application to the IDB for consideration, the Chambers staff shall provide to the Applicant a term sheet setting form the Chambers recommendation as to the proposed PILOT incentive, if any, to be submitted to the IDB. 4. If the proposed PILOT incentive is acceptable to the Applicant, the Chambers staff shall submit the Application and a proposed PILOT Agreement to the IDB for initial consideration. Such information shall be submitted to IDB not less than 7 days prior to consideration. 5. The IDB will then consider the Application at a duly called meeting. Prior to such consideration, the IDB will conduct a public hearing with respect to the Application, thereby providing members of the public an opportunity to comment on the proposed Application and the proposed PILOT incentive. After such public hearing, the IDB may either (i) accept the Application and instruct the Chamber staff and City to work with the Applicant to prepare implementing documentation, including the PILOT lease, for presentation to the IDB consistent with the Chamber recommendation as to term as such recommendation may be modified by the IDB or (ii) note to not proceed further with the requested PILOT incentive. 6. At a subsequent meeting of the IDB, the relevant PILOT documentation, in substantially final form, shall be submitted to the IDB for consideration and, if appropriate, approval. 7. If the Applicants request for a PILOT incentive does not comply in all respect with the Policies to which this Exhibit is attached, the Chambers staff, instead of presenting the Application to the IDB, shall submit the Application to the City Council for consideration of whether to delegate the authority to the IDB to negotiate a PILOT incentive with the Applicant. Such submission shall include (i) all supporting documentation; (ii) an explanation as to why the requested PILOT incentive does not comply with the Policies; (iii) reports of the Chambers staff and the Citys economic development staff as to the Application with recommendation as to whether to approve the Application; and (iv) a proposed delegation resolution of City Council authorizing the IDB to negotiate the requested PILOT incentive. If the Countys property taxes would be affected by the proposed PILOT incentive, the Application will also be submitted to the County Commission as is set forth in the Policies. In connection with considering any such Application, the City Council instead of the IDB will hold a public hearing as to the Application. 8. If after the approval of an Application but before the final PILOT documentation is executed, (i) the Projects scope, location, or purpose changes, (ii) the Applicant receives tax incentives from another governmental entity that were not disclosed when the Application was considered, or (iii) any other change occurs that is would materially affect the information in the Application, the IDB may reconsider the Application after notice to the Applicant and modify or revoke its prior approval. Helen Burns Sharp, citizen advocate, told the board prior to the Chamber presentation, Economic development staff in the citys mayors office placed an 'educational session on PILOT policies' on the January 6th, 2025, IDB agenda. Interested citizen groups like ATM and CALEB might like to provide constructive feedback. That is challenging because we are unclear about what document will be reviewed. In the comments below, we assume it is the document presented to the IDB in December 2023. Background Here is a short history of the evolution of that document. 1. In the fall of 2021, City Mayor Tim Kelly asked his economic development staff and Chamber staff to develop policies and procedures for PILOTs and to work with interested community partners, such as CALEB and ATM. 2. Staff in early 2022 first circulated a draft based on Knox Countys Policies and Procedures.https://knoxcountyidb.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/PILOT-Policies-Procedures.pdf 3. A draft document of PILOT policies and procedures first appeared on the IDB agendas in October and November 2022. The Board was still reviewing TIF policies, so it did not discuss them at these or their meetings in early 2023. 4. This late 2022 document was not the same modified Knox County document CALEB and ATM had commented on earlier that year. It did not have a date or an author. Was it based on the policies and procedures of another jurisdiction, or did it just codify current Chamber practice with a few changes? (At the August 7, 2023, IDB public hearing on PILOT policies, a board member asked city staff who authored the document under consideration. The answer was the Chamber, with the city providing some input.) 5. Staff scheduled public hearings on PILOT policies and procedures for IDB meetings in the summer of 2023. 6. The document on the 2023 IDB agendas differed fundamentally from the fall 2022 version, although no staff memo acknowledged why or how (red line) it had changed. The most significant change would prevent the City Council (and County Commission) from having a role in considering most PILOT applications. 7. The proposed policies and procedures rely heavily on an economic impact matrix. The final numerical score determines the terms and conditions of the incentive. Part IV of the document references it as Appendix A. 9. At the December 11, 2023, meeting, the IDB discussed the proposed policies and procedures for the first and only time. ATM sent comments about the matrix; CALEB offered comments at the meeting. 10. We do not know if any changes have been made to the document based on the IDB deliberation or CALEB and ATM feedback. Comments on the Substance of the December 2023 draft 1. ATM recommends adding threshold criteria. Is the project a game-changer? Is it a catalyst? Is it in a strategic industry sector? Does it meet the "But For" test? Ask applicants to answer these policy questions in writing as part of the application. 2. ATM recommends strengthening But For by requiring the applicant to sign an affidavit stating the requested tax break is a pre-requisite for them to locate or expand in Hamilton County. 3. ATM recommends more discussion about strategic industry sectors. For example, city staff referred to "key sectors" in a June 2023 PowerPoint presentation to the IDB and mentioned a few, including distribution centers. Why is this a key sector? Are there some that need to be added? 4. PILOT Evaluation Criteria refers to an Economic Impact Matrix. While a matrix can help determine what factors to consider when evaluating a PILOT request, ATM disagrees that the terms and conditions of the incentive should be based solely on the final score. 5. A matrix has been around for a while. It has been referred to as the Chamber's black box." How different will the new matrix be from its predecessor? Will it contain clear and objective standards? Would past PILOTs for a call center, downtown movie theater, office parking garages, etc. have passed muster under the new matrix? Economic development is more of an art than a science. Lets figure out a better way to decide which projects get incentives than just adding numbers. Threshold criteria would be a good starting point. 6. ATM recommends that the public have strong advocates at the negotiating table early in the vetting process. 7. ATM believes the economic impact analysis should include a public interest perspective. Those done by Younger Associates typically do not. You could add an independent third-party review, as required for TIF applications. 8. ATM believes ALL PILOTs should go to the City Council (and County Commission) for consideration. They are elected officials and thus accountable. They vote on budgets, and PILOTs involve the budget in that they result in reduced revenues. The 2023 draft document calls for a public hearing before the IDB and no review by the Council if the proposed project does not exceed 10 years and meets the policies. All but one of the seven PILOTs the IDB has approved since 2015 have been for 10 years or less. These PILOTs came to the IDB after the elected City Council passed a resolution saying, We do hereby find that the project is in the best interest of the city. Why do the Chamber and the Mayors office want to eliminate the step where the Council discusses a PILOT request? They suggest that the current approval process is burdensome and time-consuming and may cause us to lose business locations in cities like Huntsville and Greenville (two cities that have abated less property tax revenue than Chattanooga). A Chamber representative expressed concern that the process will be so slow that we lose projects. A senior official on the Mayors staff said: We have the same questions over and over again on these PILOTs, and it almost turns into theaterand it takes months and months at a time. However, this narrative does not reflect reality. It took less than a month to move the three PILOTs approved since Mayor Kellys term began in 2021 from the Council's "best interest" determination to IDB action. The mayors staff references the politicization of taking PILOTs to Council. If its political to include all ten of our elected officials in the review process, isnt it equally (or more) political to vest all the power in one (the mayor)? Here are examples of questions Councilors have asked on recent PILOTs. They asked about the "but for" test. They asked about training programs and the mix between full and part-time jobs. They asked about clawback language in the agreement to address what happens if the company does not meet its commitments. They asked staff about the impact on the City's general fund while the incentive is in effect. Good questions. No badgering. No political theater. 9. ATM recommends adding the City and County to the Chamber as a repository to maintain checklists and copies of all required public documents relating to the PILOT application. It is essential for transparency and open government. 10. ATM recommends more discussion by the IDB and City Council about the Chamber's expanded role in the PILOT process. In 2010, the Chamber wrote this to explain its role to the City Council: The Chamber does not make policy for PILOTs nor determine what companies are eligible. We facilitate the process as an agent of the City and County and rely on the Mayors, the Council, and the Commission to determine a companys eligibility for a PILOT. We need the Chambers expertise and perspective. We also need to recognize that the Chamber is a business advocacy organization. Allowing the Chamber a much-expanded role is like putting the fox in charge of the hen house. Is it appropriate to give so much power to a pro-subsidy organization to write the policies, oversee how they are applied, and monitor company compliance? How would the local Homebuilders Association feel if the city hired the Sierra Club to write our environmental policies and direct enforcement? 11. ATM recommends a PILOT flowchart. The Harris County Sheriff's Office is investigating a shooting that left one teen dead and another injured in an shooting early Monday. OnSceneTV Harris County Sheriff's Office deputies place a man in custody following a shooting early Monday that left one teen dead an other injured. OnSceneTV The Harris County Sheriff's Office is investigating a shooting that left one teen dead and another injured in an shooting early Monday. OnSceneTV The Harris County Sheriffs Office is investigating a shooting that left one teen dead and another injured late Sunday. Sgt. Michael Ritchie with the sheriffs office told OnScene reporters the victims are brothers, one 19 and the other 16 or 17, who lived in a home in the 2400 block of William Tell. Advertisement Article continues below this ad According to Ritchie, deputies responded to the scene around midnight after dispatchers received a call about two people shot. When deputies and EMS arrived, they discovered to young men that were shot, Ritchie said. One was transported to the hospital and one was deceased on scene. Ritchie said there were six to eight people in the home at the time of the shooting. Everyone has been cooperative, Ritchie said as investigators worked to determine what happened and who fired the weapon. It was not clear if the shooting was intentional or accidental. Ritchie said a weapon was recovered at the scene. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The identities of the victims had not been released as of Monday morning, and no one had been charged with a crime. Ritchie said the case would be presented to a grand jury following the investigation. They will determine if there is any fault and determine if any charges need to be brought forward, Ritchie said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad NOVONIX Limited, a leading EV vehicle battery materials and technology company that has been operating at the former Alstom site, is now planning to purchase 182 acres at the Enterprise South Industrial Park for a major new facility. The Australian-based firm plans an investment of at least $1 billion and the creation of at least 500 full-time jobs at the industrial park at Tyner. In addition, the company foresees a Phase 2 development that would yield $2.1 billion in investment and 670 additional new full-time jobs. Dr. Chris Burns, CEO of NOVONIX, said, We are thrilled to be announcing this next step in our further expansion in Chattanooga. We have worked closely with the city, county and state over the past seven years of operations in Chattanooga and they have been great partners in supporting our growth plans. Securing this new site for our expansion is a continued example of that partnership. We have signed binding offtake agreements to supply synthetic graphite to Panasonic Energy,1 Stellantis,2 and PowerCo,3 which has our Riverside facility at capacity, and were looking forward to opening our doors at Enterprise South. Located in the Enterprise South Industrial Park, NOVONIX Enterprise South is expected to reach full production capacity of 31,500 tons per year by the end of 2028 and is anticipated to create 500 full-time jobs. The facility, together with NOVONIXs existing 20,000 tons per year facility at Riverside in Chattanooga, is planned to bring the companys total production capacity to over 50,000 tons per year by 2028, it was stated. Mayor Tim Kelly said, "This investment by NOVONIX shows that Chattanooga has the talent and the business environment to lead in the green economy. The city and our partners are committed to working with the company as they bring this new site online." Weston Wamp, county mayor, said, NOVONIX is wise to again bet on Hamilton County and our people as they forge the future of battery technology. From our earliest discussions with the leadership of NOVONIX, they were supportive of our vision to create career opportunities for Hamilton County students, which will be made possible through this investment. The company is asking city and county officials for a 15-year PILOT (Payment in lieu of Taxes) tax break in connection with the development. NOVONIX would pay the full school tax, but otherwise be taxed under this schedule: Year City County Year 1 0% 0% Year 2 25% 25% Year 3 40% 40% Year 4 50% 50% Year 5 50% 50% Year 6 50% 50% Year 7 50% 50% Year 8 50% 50% Year 9 50% 50% Year 10 50% 50% Year 11 50% 50% Year 12 50% 50% Year 13 50% 50% Year 14 50% 50% Year 15 50% 50% Year 16 & thereafter 100% 100% In early December there was announced a conditional commitment to NOVONIX from the U.S. Department of Energy through the Loan Programs Office for a direct loan of up to $754.8 million ($692 million in principal and $62.8 million in capitalized interest) to be applied towards partially financing a proposed new facility in Chattanooga. The proposed financing is being offered under the DOE LPOs Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program. Officials said, "If finalized, the loan would be applied towards partially financing the construction of the new facility in Chattanooga to manufacture synthetic graphite primarily for use in electric vehicle batteries. At full capacity, the new facility is expected to produce approximately 31,500 tons per year of synthetic graphite, which can support the production of lithium-ion batteries for approximately 325,000 EVs each year." Officials said China currently has over 95 percent market share for battery grade graphite. The new facility is expected to reach full production capacity by the end of 2028 and is anticipated to create 450 full-time operational jobs and 500 construction jobs, officials said at the time. Dr. Burns also said, This announcement is the culmination of years of hard work and is another critical milestone for our anode materials business towards our target production of 150,000 tpa in North America. This conditional commitment from the government to invest in our new facility continues to underscore the focus on localizing critical materials in the battery supply chain, such as graphite. Recent announcements from China to further scrutinize the export of battery-grade graphite to the United States highlight the importance of domestic production of high-performance, battery-grade synthetic graphite. Our offtake agreements with strong partners have strengthened our leadership in onshoring the synthetic graphite supply chain in North America and supporting the path towards U.S. energy independence. This year, NOVONIX has signed binding offtake agreements to supply synthetic graphite to Panasonic Energy2, Stellantis3, and PowerCo4. To meet this demand, the company has previously discussed plans to build a new facility in the southeastern United States which could expand up to 75,000 tpa or production capacity. This proposed ATVM Program loan would support the construction of the first phase of the new facility and the initial production capacity of 31,500 tpa. NOVONIX plans to subsequently expand the production capacity of this site to its target of 75,000 tpa of synthetic graphite production, any such expansion being dependent on customer demand and access to additional financing. Officials in December said NOVONIXs Alstom facility "is poised to become the first large-scale production site dedicated to high-performance synthetic graphite for the battery sector in North America. It is slated to begin commercial production in 2025, with plans to grow output to 20,000 tons per year to meet current customer commitments." Previously, the company announced that the DOEs Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains awarded the company a $100 million grant and that it was selected for a $103 million investment tax credit towards the funding of the Riverside facility. Scenic City Womens Network is ringing in the New Year with Doris Collier, CEO of Magic Feet LLC, as guest speaker for the January Marketplace Luncheon, Jan. 23 at noon at The Walden Club, 633 Chestnut St. #2100 in Chattanooga. A plated meal and refreshments will be served.January Marketplace Luncheon registration is $30 and open to the public. Space is limited and registration ends January 21. Register online here , or call 423-698-6262.About the speaker:Doris Collier resides in Chattanooga and will soon celebrate her 40th wedding anniversary to Nathan Collier, a retired ER physician.She is the mother of two sons and a daughter, and is GiGi to five "grand angels," who all live in Chattanooga. Ms. Collier is the business owner and CEO of an international company, Magic Feet, LLC, that provides ergonomic insoles to manufacturing companies.She is a graduate of Winter Park High School in Winter Park, Fl., and received her bachelors degree from the University of Alabama in Birmingham. In her spare time, Ms. Collier is an actress. Twelve years ago, a movie producer who offered her a role in her first movie discovered her on Facebook. Since then, she has completed eight movies and one TV series. She has been published in Christian Film Stars about her life and movie career.Ms. Collier attends Silverdale Baptist Church, where she and her husband have served on many medical mission trips in Jamaica, Honduras, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic and Mexico. Foreign mission work is her passion. Ms. Collier is also the chairman of the board for the ladies ministry, Raising Dreamers, where they host weekend ladies retreats all across the United States.Her favorite quote is by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggles, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen. A global company that says it wants to make Chattanooga its headquarters says it still has an option for 200 and 212 Market St., but it is looking at other properties as well. Kronos Capital earlier was eying either a 12-story or six-story building at the corner of Aquarium Way (Second) and Market streets, where a candy store once operated at 200 Market and where the Market 212 Restaurant was long open at 212 Market. Some residents in condos and townhomes on the hill behind the site raised concerns about the height of the building. In a press release issued on Monday, Kronos Capital said it is a private equity firm "that will soon call downtown Chattanooga home for its headquarters. With several entities in its family of companies, in total, more than 350 individuals will be employed by the companies making an impact of over $2 million per year on Chattanoogas local economy." CEO Nash Bowen said, As a Chattanoogan, my greatest desire has been to headquarter these companies in the city I grew up in. He said that while the company has the 200 block of Market Street under contract, "the company is looking at additional properties to expand its local presence." He stated, Our company is bullish on Chattanooga specifically downtown. Like so many, weve seen the success of the citys Northshore and Southside and share the excitement of whats to come at The Bend. For us, theres simply no place wed rather open our doors than in the urban core of Chattanoogas Downtown. Our initial investment of roughly $128 million will plant seeds for the and our workforce will live, shop and worship in the area. Were excited about what the future holds because we want to play a role in it. Leaders of the company said their success "comes from the alignment of a combination of investment benchmarks with goodwill and a mission to create value in companies that have a net-positive impact on the world." Its portfolio of companies includes: Akashic Technologies is a Canadian-based clean energy company, holding 12 patents across the globe on its hydrocarbon recovery unit. Akashics HRUs replace oil refineries flares, recovering an estimated seven percent of wasted fuel while eliminating refinery emissions. Initial placement of the HRUs is geared towards U.S. refineries, Egypts state-owned refineries, and other European and Middle Eastern locations. Akashic Technologies is currently hosting equity investment negotiations with several of the worlds largest investment banks, funds, and energy investment companies. The Akashic Technologies HRU is the answer to the global issues raised at the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29), hosted in Baku, Azerbaijan: flaring needs to be eliminated by 2030 to assist in saving our environment. The Akashic HRUs eliminate flaring, provide the benefit of energy independence to nations in need, and provide its investors an unmatched return on investment. CHRGD is a point-of-sale integration software for franchises, designed to improve franchisee (usually small business owners) sales, while improving their franchisors profit margins. CHRGD has onboarded US-based franchises and has executed a territory exclusive license agreement with a multi-family office in Queensland, Australia, providing for a large customer base in Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. Scott Masters, managing director of Guardian Global Wealth (Multi-Family Office) and executive director of Guardian Carbon, stated, CHRGD is going to revolutionize the way money changes hands between franchises, and we are thrilled to be part of the team. Currently, CHRGD is nearing the end of negotiations on exclusive territory license agreements for Spain, France, Colombia, Mexico, Bahrain, and the UAE. CHRGD is an efficient software that provides a net benefit to small businesses and large corporations alike. - Kronos Carbon was built out of a need to jumpstart the progression of the carbon credit industry. To date, the emerging carbon credit industry is riddled with inefficiencies, instability, and huge barriers to entry for average companies that are eligible to generate carbon credits by reducing their carbon footprint. The lack of structure in the carbon credit market prolongs adoption of net-neutral directives by companies, thus prolonging climate change results that the world needs. Kronos Carbon is a regulatory-compliant, transparent, and profitable tokenization and sale platform for companies that develop, buy, and sell carbon credits. Its strategic partnerships include Kronos Carbon Chairman Peter Knez, the former co-chief investment officer of BlackRock, affiliates of the World Economic Forum, and energy companies around the world. By facilitating a simple, transparent, and effective manner of revolutionizing the carbon credit trading market, Kronos Carbon promotes net-neutral changes on the part of the companies whose actions make a difference, while instilling quality and transparency standards in an emerging industry. Mr. Knez noted, The Kronos team saw a need in an industry that has so much opportunity and yet, is challenged by its own inefficiencies. Working together for mutually beneficial outcomes, Kronos Carbon is setting the bar in the carbon credit industry. Its an honor to play a leading role with this effort. - Kosha Hibachi is a Japanese-themed hibachi food truck franchise. Created by Kronos Capital in late 2021, and franchised in June of 2023, the Kosha Hibachi franchise model provides its operators a low-entry-cost business model with simple operations and higher-than-average returns on investment. Its award-winning dishes create a loyal customer base while adding the flexibility of a food truck to its business plan, providing for a unique franchise strategy of combining a restaurant-like customer base; attendance at concerts, festivals, and other events; and catering fulfillment. Kronos Capital is currently negotiating a seven state bulk investment to place 250 franchise locations throughout the Southeast United States, it was stated. Bennett Maxwell, founder of Dirty Dough, said, We love the food truck community and the difference a great offering can make at concerts and festivals. It was an easy decision to support this concept as it appeals to such a wide array of audiences with food offerings that are easy to obtain and prepare. This is an exciting addition to any portfolio, and were excited about the success Kosha Hibachis franchisees are experiencing. - Bowen Global Enterprisesis a private fund focused on the acquisition and growth of rental and development properties throughout the United States and Belize. Notably, the effect of Bowen Global Enterprises in Corozal, Belize has led to the economic uplift of the surrounding villages, due to work provided, scholarships awarded, and extracurricular teams sponsored by Bowen Global Enterprises. Kate Middleton said she would 'look after' her favorite gift from Prince William Prince William and Kate Middleton have celebrated many gift-giving occasions together throughout their romantic relationship. However, one gift the Prince of Wales gave his then-girlfriend was an above-all favorite for obvious reasons. Kate Middletons favorite gift from Prince William After almost 10 years as Prince Williams girlfriend, Kate Middleton received a gift that was to be her favorite. William presented Kate with Princess Dianas engagement ring and asked her to be his wife. In October 2010, William and Kate took a private trip to Kenya with some of their friends. There, the United Kingdoms future king proposed to his longtime girlfriend at the Rutundu Log Cabins, near Mount Kenya. He presented Kate with his late mother Princess Dianas sapphire and diamond engagement ring, making the moment even more poignant. They revealed their intent to wed in an interview with ITVs Tom Bradby a month later. William admitted using Dianas legacy ring to propose to Kate was important. He said his mother was not going to be around to share any of the fun and excitement of it all. He added, This was my way of keeping her sort of close to it all. Kate stated the ring was beautiful and said shed look after it. Prince William also once gave Kate Middleton a rather unusual present Prince William and Kate Middleton met while students at St. Andrews University in Scotland in 2001. Their romantic relationship began one year later. William admitted he gave Kate quite an unusual gift during an appearance on Peter Crouchs podcast on BBC Radio Five Live. The Mirror reported on Williams stark admission. I did get my wife a pair of binoculars once. Shes never let me forget that, William said. That was early on in the courtship that was. I think that sealed the deal. He added, It didnt go well. Honestly, I have no idea why I bought her a pair of binoculars, it seemed like a good idea at the time. What other types of gifts has Kate Middleton received from William and the royal family? Kate Middleton wears a pair of sapphire earrings in 2023 | Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images While they were dating, Prince William more than made up for his first gift-giving mistake. His first jewelry gift to Kate Middleton with a rose gold ring detailed with pearls and garnets, Kate and Williams birthstones. Upon Kate and Williams marriage, Queen Elizabeth gifted the couple their first home, Amner Hall. The residence is on the Sandringham Estate owned by the House of Windsor. Also for her wedding, Kate received from her father-in-law King Charles a set of Art Deco diamond jewelry. Camilla gifted her a gold charm bracelet with their respective initials engraved on it and Prince William gave Kate a set of diamond and sapphire earrings to match her engagement ring. Per The Mirror, William has also gifted his wife a Ballon Bleu de Cartier watch, and a diamond eternity band. After the births of their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, William gifted Kate presents such as emerald earrings, a diamond and white gold ring, and a Citrine ring. Prince William and Kate Middleton married in April 2011. The Management Board of Peter Huber Kaltemaschinenbau SE is pleased to announce the official acquisition of the long-standing Italian sales and service company Huber Italia. With the integration into the group structure, the company strengthens its presence in Italy and increases its global reach. Huber Italia, founded in 2003, previously also acted as the exclusive brand owner for the Italian market. With the integration of "Huber Italia" into Peter Huber Kaltemaschinenbau SE, the number of foreign subsidiaries increases to a total of eight. The expansion underlines the company's successful international expansion and continuous development of customer proximity. "We are proud to now fully integrate Huber Italia into our Group structure," emphasizes CEO Daniel Huber. "Friendship and trust are the basis for our joint success and this success is also the reason for this step. Huber Italia has become the top address for innovative and sustainable temperature control technology in Italy. The integration was already strategically planned when Huber Italia was founded and ultimately underlines our commitment to offering our customers worldwide innovative temperature control solutions and first-class service." Alfred Longoni, Managing Director of Huber Italia: "Grazie fratellone! HUBER, quella e la mia famiglia. Sono molto orgoglioso! Il mio sogno e diventato realta", is looking forward to the integration into the Huber family. "We are looking forward to the opportunity to serve the numerous projects with our customers as a subsidiary." Alfred Longoni and his team have built up the Huber Italia brand. In his new role as Managing Director, he will continue to pass on his experience and specialist knowledge in the field of temperature control technology to his team and the customers and sales partners in Italy. NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - JANUARY 1: Law enforcement officers from multiple agencies work the scene on Bourbon Street after 14 people were killed when a person allegedly Houston man Shamsud-Din Jabbar drove into the crowd in the early morning hours of New Year's Day on January 1, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Dozens more were injured after Jabbar in a rented pickup truck allegedly drove around barricades and through a crowd of New Year's revelers on Bourbon Street. Jabbar then got out of the car, opened fire on police officers, and was subsequently killed by law enforcement. Michael DeMocker/Getty Images Before allegedly driving a truck into New Orleans' crowded French Quarter on New Year's Day, 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar visited the city at least twice and purportedly made trips to Canada and Egypt, authorities said. Jabbar is accused of driving into a crowd celebrating on Bourbon Street, killing 14 and injuring more than 30 people. He drove a white F-150 Lightning truck through and around barricades into the crowd in the French Quarter. He also wounded two officers when he opened fire on police after the crash. Authorities have said it was an intentional attack; Jabbar died in a shootout with police. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Before the attack, he allegedly visited the city at least twice making recorded videos using hands-free glasses while riding a bike through the French Quarter, FBI officials said during a Sunday news conference. The Houston man also had visited Cairo, Egypt, and Ontario, Canada before the attack, said Special Agent in Charge Lyonel Myrthil. However, it is still unclear if those trips were connected to the attack, Myrthil said. "We have not seen any indication of an accomplice in the United States, but we are still looking into potential associates in the U.S. and outside of our borders," said FBI Deputy Assistant Director Christopher Raia. Timeline of the New Orleans attack Jabbar had made at least two trips to New Orleans leading up to the attack on Jan. 1, Myrthil said. He had visited the city once in October and a second time in November. A video provided by the FBI appeared to show Jabbar riding a bicycle in the French Quarter while recording using hands-free glasses. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Several security footage clips also were shown in the video, in which Jabbar appears to be dragging an ice cooler along Dauphine Street in the French Quarter. Previously, the FBI also released an image of a blue cooler that officials said contained an improvised explosive device. On the day of the attack, FBI special agent bomb technicians recovered two IEDs in coolers one at the cross-section of Bourbon and Orleans streets and the other at the intersection of Bourbon and Toulouse streets. Investigators also believe Jabbar rented a home in the city on Oct. 30. Then in January, before the attack, Jabbar allegedly set fire to the rental home, Myrthil said. New Orleans firefighters later recovered explosive devices at the location, Myrthil said. On Dec. 30, Jabbar rented a 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning pickup truck from a Houston-area man using Turo, a car-sharing app. The following day, he drove the truck to New Orleans, where he began posting videos to a Facebook page where he allegedly pledged allegiance to ISIS and talked about killing family members in the videos, which haven't been made public. Jabbar was allegedly seen purchasing firearms at multiple gun stores as well as one cooler in Texas before driving to New Orleans, Myrthil said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad At 3:25 a.m., he turned the truck onto Bourbon Street, going around a parked police car, and accelerated into a crowd of people, shooting a gun as he drove down the roadway. Fourteen people died from the attack, and dozens more were injured. Jabbar was shot and killed by police shortly after the truck crashed into a piece of machinery. FBI and New Orleans law enforcement said they don't believe there were any other suspects involved in the Bourbon Street attack. Between June 20 to July 3, Jabbar allegedly visited Cairo, Egypt before he flew to Ontario, Canada on July 10, Myrthil said. Authorities are still trying to piece whether the trips were connected to the attack. Maintaining safety in the coming days New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell said officials plan to speak to President Joe Biden during his Monday visit to the city regarding increased public safety plans for upcoming events in the city. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A fund has also been created by the Greater New Orleans Foundation to help support the victims of the attack, Cantrell said. The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals located in lower Manhattan, New York. | Photo Credit: Official Website/ 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals A federal appellate court has reinstated a challenge from pro-life organizations and a church against a New York law that prevents faith-based employers from taking action against employees who have abortions. The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, in an opinion released on Thursday, sided with the pro-life pregnancy care center network CompassCare, the National Institute of Family and Life Advocates, and First Bible Baptist Church in their lawsuit against state officials. The relevant portion of New York Labor Law Section 203-e prohibits employers from engaging in discrimination based on an employee's or a dependent's reproductive health decision making. Although the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York had previously dismissed the plaintiffs' claim that the law violated the faith-based employers' rights to expressive association under the First Amendment, the 2nd Circuit ruled that the claim had merit and that the lawsuit could proceed. This ruling follows a previous decision made in 2023 in the case of Slattery v. Hochul, where the 2nd Circuit reversed a lower court's dismissal related to the Evergreen Association, a pro-life pregnancy center. The court noted, The District Court did not have the benefit of the Slattery opinion which is now binding precedent when it issued the orders challenged in this matter, Judge Sarah Merriam wrote in Thursday's opinion. In light of Slattery, we vacate the dismissal of Plaintiffs' expressive-association claim. The law in question prohibits employers from accessing an employee's personal information regarding the employee's ... reproductive health decision making, including but not limited to, the decision to use or access a particular drug, device or medical service, according to the courts opinion. All three plaintiff organizations require their employees to adhere to statements of faith denouncing abortion, considering this adherence central to their mission. In Slattery, the 2nd Circuit determined that the plaintiff may have a valid claim against the law if it can prove that the statute forces Evergreen to employ individuals who act or have acted against the very mission of its organization. Alliance Defending Freedom, the legal organization representing the plaintiffs, argues that the law requires employers including churches, religious schools, faith-based pregnancy care centers, and religious nonprofits to undermine their own beliefs about abortion, contraception, and sexual morality by forcing them to employ those who cannot effectively convey the groups' message because they refuse to abide by the organizations' statements of faith and core principles about such issues. ADF Senior Counsel Kevin Theriot praised the court's decision, stating, Our nation has long respected the rights of religious organizations to associate with like-minded believers, and the court's decision rightly reinstates our clients' claim seeking to affirm that this right protects employment practices affecting the groups' mission. He added, Religious employers are free to hire individuals who share their core beliefs, and no government can force faith-based organizations to contradict those convictions. The 2nd Circuit was right to revive this challenge, allowing our clients to defend their constitutionally protected freedom to join with others and express what they believe without fear of government punishment or coercion. Home News Congress certifies 2024 presidential election without Democrat objection Congress formally certified the Electoral College votes of the 2024 presidential election Monday, officially sealing the electoral victory of President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance. The certification of the Republican victory took place without a single objection from a congressional Democrat for the first time since 1988. The vote count was read by Sens. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., and Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., who served as tellers for the Senate. Reps. Bryan Steil, R-Wis., and Joe Morelle, D-N.Y., served as tellers for the House of Representatives. Each took turns reading the tallies from all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe According to the final count, Trump secured 312 electoral college votes, placing him far above the 270 needed to win the presidency. Vice President Kamala Harris, who presided over the count in her role as president of the Senate, won 226 electoral votes. The proceedings wrapped up within a short 30 minutes, marking a much better time than the 14 hours and 48 minutes it took in 2021. The certification came four years after a mob of Trump supporters protested the 2020 presidential election at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, with some entering the building and forcing legislators to hide. Nearly 1,600 people still face charges related to the Jan. 6 riot, and Trump has promised to grant clemency to at least some of them. Though congressional Democrats have objected to every certification of a Republican president since George W. Bush in 2001, Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., suggested that this year's certification was peaceful because Democrats "have no election deniers on our side of the aisle, and we try to act as constitutional patriots, adhering to the processes set forth in the Constitution." Speaking in a recorded message before the count, Harris said, "The peaceful transfer of power is one of the most fundamental principles of American democracy. As much as any other principle, it is what distinguishes our system of government from monarchy or tyranny." A legislative overhaul of the 1887 Electoral Count Act in 2022 raised the threshold by which legislators could force votes attempting to overturn a state's certified result, and also clarified that the vice president's role in the proceedings were merely ceremonial. The certification came amid barricades and heightened security measures around the Capitol, as well as a winter storm in Washington, D.C., that shut down schools and many federal buildings. Former President Jimmy Carter's state funeral is expected to further snarl the nation's capital later this week. Home News False reports of indigenous 'mass graves' at Catholic schools linked to attacks on nearly 100 churches 24 of 33 church fires found to be arson cases; another 60 churches vandalized A flurry of media reports involving claims that hundreds of indigenous children were buried beneath Catholic schools across Canada has reportedly left nearly 100 churches vandalized or burned down. The attacks are linked to now-debunkedreports, including one from a Canadian first nation group that alleged more than 750 bodies were found buried under a Catholic-run school in Canada's Saskatchewan province. That report, which claimed there were 751 unmarked graves at a cemetery near the site of the former Marieval Indian Residential School, has since been debunked after zero graves were excavated despite a two-year effort. 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 Such claims sparked a wave of vandalism and arson attacks on Catholic and Protestant churches amid a rise in anti-Christian and anti-Catholic sentiment. Since the initial report in June 2021, 96 churches across Canada have been desecrated, destroyed or vandalized, according to Canadian independent media outlet True North. Ranging in denomination from Anglican, Catholic, Lutheran and others, the targeted churches are located as far north as Yellowknife in Canadas Northwest Territories to Chopaka Catholic Church on the border between British Columbia and Washington state. Of the 33 church fires, Canadian investigators have declared 24 to be arson cases so far, while 60 additional churches were vandalized across hundreds of miles, including 11 churches vandalized within hours on the night of June 30, 2021. Several of the attacks targeted church doctrine, signage or symbols, including: An every child matters display that was lit on fire Aug. 3, 2021, at St. Augustine of Canterbury Church in Brandon, Manitoba; Anti-Catholic messaging with the words "killer" and "racist" on the exterior of St. Andrew's Cathedral in Victoria, B.C.; A large cross that was cut down July 12, 2021, on Mount Tzouhalem located on Vancouver Island, B.C.; and Messages written in red paint blaming Catholics for murdering indigenous children at St. Peter's Cathedral Basilica in London, Ontario. While some reports about unmarked graves were later proven to be linked to official cemeteries that included the remains of many adults, members of Canadas political and media establishment were among those who voiced at least tacit support for the public outrage. Media outlets like the Toronto Star and The Washington Post were forced to issue corrections after initially reporting the burial sites were mass graves even as the investigation was still ongoing. Gerald Butts, a Canadian political consultant who served as senior adviser to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau until 2019, tweeted that burning churches may be understandable, while Naomi Sayers, executive director of the BC Civil Liberties Association, came under fire in July 2021 for replying Burn it all down to reports of Catholic churches being vandalized. Sayers later backtracked on her tweet, saying, Burn it all down. Doesnt literally mean, burn it down. Nesta Matthews, a radio host at a radio station in New Brunswick, called for the burning of all churches built on first nations land. Matthews wrote: Burn the churches down. Arrest any former staff that were actually there and any current staff that wont provide documentation. Sell everything they own in Canada and give it to survivors. Dismantle it completely. At one point, the Canadian prime minister, himself a Catholic, demanded that the pope come to his country and issue a formal apology for the mass graves. I have spoken personally directly with His Holiness Pope Francis to press upon him how important it is not just that he makes an apology but that he makes an apology to indigenous Canadians on Canadian soil, Trudeau said in June 2021. I know that the Catholic Church leadership is looking and very actively engaged in what next steps can be taken. In a 2022 trip to Canada, Francis apologized to indigenous communities in Canada. Home News Pro-abortion group pays over $186K to settle campaign fraud claims The group behind the unsuccessful effort to enshrine a right to abortion in the Florida Constitution has paid more than $186,000 in fines in connection with fraudulent signature-gathering activity as investigations into alleged wrongdoing continue. In a Dec. 20, 2024, memo, Florida Deputy Secretary of State for Legal Affairs and Election Integrity Brad McVay informed state leaders about ongoing investigations into "initiative petition fraud." Attached to the memo is a Supplemental Interim Report discussing findings of fraud committed by Floridians Protecting Freedom. This organization spearheaded the effort to establish a constitutional right to abortion in the state by putting the issue before voters in 2024. 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 So far, Floridians Protecting Freedom has paid over $186,000 for violating Florida election law, including a $164,000 fine last month. Although 57% of voters supported Amendment 4, the referendum failed to pass because state law requires that proposed amendments to the state constitution receive at least 60% of the vote. Supporters of proposed constitutional amendments are required to secure signatures from Florida voters expressing support for their initiative. Several paid circulators who submitted petitions on behalf of FPF were arrested in early 2024, and at least three were convicted and sentenced to prison terms. The report added that a much larger number of individuals have been referred for criminal investigation for fraudulent activity. The Supplemental Interim Report stated that the Office of Election Crimes & Security received an "unusually high volume of complaints from Supervisors of Elections and individual Florida electors concerning Initiative Petition 23-07, 'Amendment to Limit Government Interference with Abortion.'" "The allegations included reports of paid FPF petition circulators signing petition forms on behalf of deceased individuals, forging or misrepresenting elector signatures on petition forms, using electors' personal identifying information without consent, and perjury/false swearing," the report added. These allegations prompted the state's OECS to open "hundreds of preliminary investigations into individual paid FPF circulators and several business entities involved in the collection of petitions on behalf of FPF." While the investigative efforts initially focused on "non-verified petition forms those that are invalid due to omissions, mismatching information, or other noncompliance with Florida Statutes," the investigation expanded to verified petitions submitted by "known or suspected fraudsters." Investigators examined verified petitions and used signature matching to determine whether or not they were valid or not. So far, the investigation has focused on three large counties in the state: Orange, Osceola and Palm Beach. In Orange County, 1,214 of 2,216 verified petitions examined were classified as valid, while 715 were deemed invalid. The remaining 287 were viewed as "indeterminate" and in need of further review. This yielded an invalidity rate of 32.3%. In Osceola County, 1,153 of the 1,378 verified petitions examined were found to be valid, while 102 were determined to be invalid. The remaining 123 petitions were classified as "indeterminate." The invalidity rate was measured at 7.4%. In Palm Beach County, OECS examined 41 verified petitions submitted by circulators who have been referred for criminal investigation. Of these petitions, 21 were determined to be invalid, while 15 were determined to be invalid. This amounts to an invalidity rate of 36.6%. The remaining five petitions were classified as "indeterminate." After its initial review of Orange County petitions submitted by "known or suspected fraudsters," investigators decided to review all verified petitions in the county. After reviewing 9,672 verified petitions, they concluded that 6,840 were valid while 2,017 were invalid, 845 were "indeterminate" and 341 were "missing." Invalid petitions account for 20.9% of the total. "The fraud outlined in this report is unacceptable, and it is imperative that the state consider major reforms to the initiative petition process to prevent groups from doing this ever again in Florida," the report concluded. Home News Man who tried to kill Brett Kavanaugh says he wanted to 'make the world a better place' A man arrested for attempting to murder U.S. Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh over the judge's opposition to abortion has stated that he wanted to "make the world a better place." Nicholas Roske was arrested in early June 2022 outside of Kavanaugh's Maryland home after making threats against the justice over his likely involvement in the overturning of Roe v. Wade, the controversial 1973 decision that labeled abortion a constitutional right. Roske is scheduled to go to trial in June on one count of attempting to assassinate a Supreme Court justice, reported The Hill. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe A transcript of comments he made to a special agent was released last week. "My plan was to kill Mr. Kavanaugh and then myself," Roske told the agent after he was arrested and taken to a police station, adding, "I've been suicidal for a long time." Roske cited the May 2022 leaked draft opinion for the case of Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization that was released by Politico, which showed that the high court was going to overturn Roe as motivating his actions. "When I saw that leaked draft, it made me upset and then it made me want to I don't know. I was under the I was under the delusion that I could make the world a better place by killing him," said Roske, according to the transcript. The transcript was released as part of a motion Roske filed arguing that his statements were inadmissible and that he had been unconstitutionally searched when arrested. "While federal agents advised Mr. Roske of his rights and obtained his signature on a rights-waiver form, this waiver was not made voluntarily and intelligently," stated the motion, as quoted by The Washington Times. "At the time, Mr. Roske was acutely suicidal, visibly exhausted, and had repeatedly expressed his need for psychiatric care." Weeks before the Supreme Court released its final opinion for Dobbs ruling abortion is not a constitutional right, Roske of Simi Valley, California, was arrested near Kavanaugh's home in Chevy Chase with multiple weapons on his person. He later told police that he wanted to kill Kavanaugh over his plans to overturn Roe. The incident was one of many threats and acts of violence against pro-life individuals, advocacy groups, charities and churches in 2022 due to the overturning of Roe. In October 2022, Justice Samuel Alito said at an event hosted by the conservative think-tank the Heritage Foundation that the draft leak made members of the high court "targets for assassination." "The leak also made those of us who were thought to be in the majority in support of overruling Roe and [Planned Parenthood v. Casey] targets for assassination, because it gave people a rational reason to think they could prevent that from happening by killing one of us," said Alito. Alito told the Heritage crowd that everyone, from the justices to their staff, just "want things to get back to normal the way they were before all this last term." Home News 'Christmas isn't racist': Trudeau, Canadian lawmakers respond to paper calling Christian holidays 'systemic discrimination' Lawmakers in Canada are denouncing a recent report by a Canadian government human rights panel that described Christmas and Easter holidays as examples of systemic religious discrimination. In a motion unanimously adopted Nov. 30, the House of Commons, the lower chamber of the Canadian Parliament, voted in favor of condemning a paper from the Canadian Human Rights Commission (CHRC) that cited Christianitys two biggest holy days as examples of present-day systemic religious discrimination because they are statutory holidays in Canada. The motion included language which called on all the House to denounce all attempts to polarize events that have been part of Quebec and Canadian heritage for generations and invite all Quebecers and Canadians to unite as we approach the Christmas season, according to Canadas Global News. 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 Lawmakers adopted the motion just one day after a tense exchange between Bloc Quebecois House Leader Alain Therrien, who introduced the motion, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. "I wonder whether Santa Claus is racist? I wonder whether snow has become racist, Mr. Speaker? According to the prime minister, is Christmas racist?" Leader of the Bloc Quebecois questions PM Trudeau about a report by the Canadian Human Rights Commission. pic.twitter.com/46tUaHLbnQ True North (@TrueNorthCentre) November 29, 2023 I wonder whether Santa Claus is racist? I wonder whether snow has become racist, Mr. Speaker? According to the prime minister, is Christmas racist?" Therrien asked. Im very pleased to stand up and try to answer a totally ridiculous question, the prime minister replied. Obviously, Christmas is not racist. This is a country of diversity. A country that celebrates not just our personal individual beliefs, but we share and celebrate the events of our neighbors, too. That's what makes this country so rich. We share our celebrations, it makes us a more rich and diverse country and we will keep doing that. The Bloc is always looking for ridiculous ways to pick fights, I cant get over it. Published on Oct. 23, the CHRC paper warned that Canadian non-Christians might be adversely impacted because Christmas and Easter are the only two religious statutory holidays in Canada. According to the Discussion Paper on Religious Intolerance paper, discrimination against religious minorities in Canada is grounded in Canadas history of colonialism, which, the paper states, finds its most obvious example in Canadian statutory holidays related to Christianity. As a result, non-Christians may need to request special accommodations to observe their holy days and other times of the year when their religion requires them to abstain from work, the paper added. The report also lists what it describes as everyday manifestations of religious tolerance, including microaggressions that can range from the verbal to the behavioral. Some examples listed in the report include scheduling team meetings on Jewish or Muslim holy days and assuming that a Muslim person is new to Canada. In order to combat religious intolerance, the paper recommends Canadians familiarize themselves with diverse religious days or cultural days of significance that go beyond those linked to statutory holidays, such as Christmas or Easter. Home News 'Words cannot convey the sorrow': All 14 people killed in New Orleans terrorist attack identified Family and friends have identified loved ones who died after Shamsud Din Jabbar plowed his rented Ford F-150 with an ISIS flag attached to the hitch into a crowd of pedestrians in New Orleans in the early hours of New Years Day and opened fire on police. Jabbar, 42, was identified by authorities as the suspect who intentionally rammed his truck into the crowd of revelers on Bourbon Street around 3:15 a.m. Central time last Wednesday. The FBI is investigating the crime that claimed 14 lives as an act of terrorism. On Friday, Louisianas Republican Gov. Jeff Landry issued an executive order declaring a period of mourning for the victims of the terrorist attack. The mourning period began on Monday and each of the subsequent business days will be dedicated to honoring one of the 14 victims. 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 Read more about each of the victims and what their friends and family have shared about the impact they had on peoples lives on the following pages. Home Opinion How to deal with life when it sucker punches you Webster defines sucker punch as taking a personal blow suddenly without warning and often without apparent provocation. What about you has life caught you in the gut lately? Maybe this sounds familiar: youre minding your own business, trying to make your way through each day without bothering anyone, maybe even trying to do good and what you believe is Gods work in some way, and then WHAM out of nowhere, you get a body blow from the universe that isnt deserved. Pain, coupled with disbelief, quickly leads to anger and bitterness over whats befallen you. If you can relate, well, Ive been there plenty of times myself so youre not alone. 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 Occasionally the awful things that come our way are blowback from bad decisions weve made, although a recent Pew Research poll showed that only 6% of us think thats the case. The vast majority in the study believed life happens and that there is no rhyme or reason for sudden misfortunes that strike us. Sometimes these adversities take on multiple personas such as the boomerang or yo-yo hardship where you thought you had gotten free of adversity and breathed a sigh of relief, but now its come back to haunt you again. Or how about the triphammer trial where one bad thing happens after another and you end up like Jack Nicholson in the movie Somethings Gotta Give where, after a series of issues have pounded him, snow starts slowly falling on his head causing him to look heavenward and dejectedly ask, anything else? Ever done that? Dont feel sheepish if you have, because I think all of us have felt that way at one time or another. As Christians, from an emotional standpoint, we often internally feel that lifes sucker punches should be reserved for other people, and so were surprised when we feel it ourselves even though we intellectually know Scripture says trials are visited upon everyone. So, how can we rewire ourselves to correctly deal with those experiences when they come? Lets look at how a couple of pretty famous guys did just that. You gotta be kidding me First up is the apostle Paul who, putting it as simply as I know how, had it rough. When God said about Paul, I will show him how much he must suffer for My names sake (Acts 9:16), He wasnt kidding. This seems strange for a man that God would use to write most of the New Testament and evangelize the non-Jewish world at that time. Youd think someone tasked with those responsibilities would be divinely protected from unprovoked, out-of-the-blue assaults. But read through the book of 2nd Corinthians and youll find exactly the opposite as Paul details all the trials he endured during his Christian life. Pauls sucker punches came in the form of both physical and psychological afflictions where he admits, We were burdened excessively, beyond our strength, so that we despaired even of life; indeed, we had the sentence of death within ourselves so that we would not trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the dead (2 Cor. 1:8-9). This tells us that Paul had to, from time to time, think you gotta be kidding me when all Hell broke loose on him, likely wondering how one divinely tasked by God could see so much trouble when a sovereign and omnipotent Creator was overseeing everything in his life. We see evidence of this when he writes, we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed (2 Cor. 4:89). What stands out refreshingly to me in these verses is that Paul admits he was perplexed about the hardships that came his way just like we are today. The word perplexed in Greek is aporeo and it means to not know which way to turn; to be in total dire straits without any resources to help. So, tell the truth: have you ever felt that way in your tribulations even though youre a Christian and, in your head, know God loves you? If so, you and the greatest disciple of Christ who ever lived have something in common. But through it all, Paul says even though he had bottomed out he was not despairing, and so, in the end, his attitude was we do not lose heart for momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison (2 Cor. 4:1617). In the end, Paul continued to trust God through his storms believing, He will yet deliver us (2 Cor. 1:8). Fast forward nearly 2,000 years from Paul to someone even non-Christians consider one of the most powerful intellectuals to ever grace American soil, the great theologian Jonathan Edwards. His writings and sermons continue to educate and direct the thoughts of believers today toward the deep things of God. Yet, read any of Edwards biographies and see the undeserved attacks that came upon him, intensifying to the point where he was evicted from his own church and banished to the wilderness to teach native Americans the Gospel. But what was Edwards attitude toward all his undeserved assaults? We get a good idea from his sermon Christian Happiness where he says: The good [man] is exalted out of the reach of all worldly evils; they cannot send forth their baneful influences so high as to touch him, and all the hurt they can do him is but as a sharp medicine A good man may look down upon all the whole army of worldly afflictions under his feet with a slight and disregard and consider with himself and joy therein that, however great they are and however numerous, let them all join their forces together against him and put on their most rueful and dreadful habits, forms and appearances, and spend all their strength, vigor and violence with endeavors to do him any real hurt or mischief, and it is all in vain. While its important to drink deeply from what Edwards is saying, its also critical to understand that he and Paul are not trivializing the awful things that can come our way. Instead, they are acknowledging them and showing us a way (actually the only way) forward. The writer Dostoevsky painted this picture in his novel The Brothers Karamazov through his atheist character Ivan Karamazov, which he has admit, near the end of the book, that Christianity is the only worldview that takes human brokenness seriously and provides a solution. So, while lifes sucker punches are going to keep coming until God brings about the new heavens and earth (Rev. 21:1), remember what that great philosopher Rocky Balboa said: You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it aint how hard you hit; its about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. Thats how winning is done. True. And it helps to know that God knows our struggles and has already written a good ending for each of us, which is why Jesus said: These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation but take courage; I have overcome the world (John 16:33). Home News Biden takes Lord's name in vain while snapping at White House reporters President Joe Biden took the Lord's name in vain while snapping at reporters at the White House on Sunday evening, prompting backlash from many on social media. After signing the Social Security Fairness Act, Biden told reporters that President-elect Donald Trump threatened democracy. "Do you still believe he's a threat to democracy?" asked a reporter, to which Biden replied, "I think what he did was a genuine threat to democracy." Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe Biden later unleashed a profane response to a question about his age and mental acuity, according to The Daily Mail. "I might be the oldest president, but I know more world leaders than any one of you have ever met in your whole godd--- life!" he said. Biden's outburst was met with scorn on social media, with Trump War Room's rapid response director, Jake Schneider, speculating that the 82-year-old president was exhibiting symptoms of "sundowning," a neurological phenomenon wherein people with dementia grow more irritable later in the day. "He has always been an angry jerk, but it's just a lot more noticeable now that his brain is mush," Schneider wrote. "Everyone thinks the biggest trick the media pulled was covering up his dementia, but really it was pretending that Biden hasn't been a world class jerk for 50+ years," wrote radio host Buck Sexton. "Joe Biden is an angry and senile old man who is the President of the United States for the next 15 days," wrote political commentator Steve Cortes. "What a bitter person," wrote former GOP communications director Steve Guest. "This is the real Biden they've tried to hide from you for years. Short tempered, vindictive, petty," wrote Link Lauren, a political commentator and former advisor to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. "He's not really this sweet grandpa. Though that's the image the White House pushes outwardly." "This is Washington credentialism in a nutshell. Politicians become 'qualified' by simply existing," wrote Bonchie, a writer for RedState. "It doesn't matter that Biden is an abject failure and the worst foreign policy figure in American history. You see, he knows a lot of people, and that's all that matters." Several users noted the irony of Biden, a self-described devout Catholic, using God's name as a curse word. "The most civil, decent, and devoutly Catholic president we've ever had," tweeted CNN pundit Scott Jennings along with an eye roll emoji. Houston City Council Member Edward Pollard speaks during a meeting Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024, in the city council chambers at City Hall in Houston. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer Council Member Edward Pollard has proposed rebranding his district into its own "city" as he increases the number of services available to residents. The move, which comes down mostly to a name at the end of the day, could prove beneficial if Pollard wants to seek another political office in the future, one expert said. Pollard, who represents District J in southwest Houston, posted on Linkedin that he would be rebranding his district as J City, which will run like its own municipality with services and programs that are specifically tailored for J City residents. Advertisement Article continues below this ad J City will include services Pollard already provides residents, such as a district police patrol to address low-level crime, but it will also seek to personalize offerings to residents through additional services that will be provided by city contractors. Edward Pollard, Houston City Council member District J, left, and Houston Police officer Thibeaux, right, get into an all-terrain vehicle at the Houston Police Dept. Gulfton Storefront, 6227 Southwest Fwy., Monday, Jan. 29, 2024, in Houston. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer Those new services will include a supplemental maintenance team that mows right-of-ways and ditches, and a beautification team that clears graffiti and illegal dumping. Pollards plan will also include an animal welfare team that provides services to pet owners and conducts stray sweeps, and a Good Neighbor Program that provides exterior home repairs to disabled, senior or veteran residents. Renee Cross, senior executive director of the University of Houstons Hobby School of Public Affairs, said Pollards rebrand of his district into its own city was a good public relations move. Cross said it might bring more attention to the district, showing voters what council members do and helping residents understand how their government can help them. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Through a political lens, the move highlights Pollard as a leader in the district who takes action and is innovative, Cross said, which could be good if Pollard has higher political ambitions. Houston Council Member Edward Pollard, right, and Houston Fire Department PIO Sedrick Robinett walk around and hand out fire prevention reading materials at an apartment complex that had a three-alarm fire two days ago on Friday, Jan. 19, 2024 in Houston. Over 100 firefighters responded to the fire at Stonehaven at the Galleria Apartments Wednesday night and 18 units were impacted, Robinett said. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer "I think part of it may be, you know, he does indeed want to improve his constituent services," Cross said. "But I also think part of it is to help position himself as a future mayoral candidate." Pollard said everything he does as an elected official is to show his vision for the city, not specifically for a higher office. Ultimately, when my term is up, I would like to pursue politics as far as I can, Pollard said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The council member said he did not have a specific office in mind that he would seek when his term is up in 2028, but that his options would be open and that he would weigh them in the future. State law prohibits certain elected officials from running for another office while they're actively holding another elected position. County and city officials whose terms are longer than two years can't make a campaign announcement until a year and 30 days before their term ends, or they risk being forced to resign. Houston City Council member, District J, Edward Pollard speaks during a ceremony recognizing military service personnel and their families for their dedication and service on Friday, March 29, 2024 at Club Creek Park in Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Council Member Edward Pollard addresses Houston ISD state-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles as Miles gives a presentation and discussion at the City of Houston's Committee on Economic Development meeting on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Edward Pollard, Houston City Council member District J, talks about the all-terrain vehicle at the Houston Police Department's Gulfton Storefront, 6227 Southwest Fwy., Monday, Jan. 29, 2024, in Houston. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer District J Houston City Council member Edward Pollard speaks during the annual National Night Out at the Burnett Bayland Park location Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2022 in Houston, TX. Michael Wyke/Contributor City Council Member Edward Pollard for District J watches the construction of the first two story 3D printed cement house in the United States on September 12, 2022 . The house is located at 10503 Emnoral Lane, Houston. Thomas B. Shea/For the Chronicle Mayor John Whitmires office did not immediately return a request for comment on Pollards rebrand announcement. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Pollard plans to pay for his initiatives using his tranche of council district service funds, which were created under former Mayor Annise Parkers administration for council members to supplement city services and bankroll projects in their district. Each council member gets around $1 million a year. Pollard did not have an exact breakdown of how much the new services would cost, but estimated it would be several hundred thousand. It is tough for our city departments to address each issue as quickly as you would like, Pollard wrote. However, I hate excuses and since you pay taxes you should get reasonable service and attention. So our hope is these programs can help address constituent needs and provide a supplement to city departments. Hopes for the rebrand Edward Pollard, Houston City Council member District J, left, and Houston Police senior officer J. Herrera, right, talk about a complaint of a vehicle parking on a residential yard in the Gulfton area Monday, Jan. 29, 2024, in Houston. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer Besides the name change, Pollards approach to using district service funds isnt entirely unique. Council members have historically used their funds to make up for services where the city has fallen behind. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Several council members have elected to use their district service funds, for example, to create their own hot teams that are responsible for addressing illegal dumping as the citys Solid Waste Management Department struggles to clean up sites on its own. Council Member Tarsha Jackson has money set aside for stray pet round ups and home repairs for seniors and disabled residents that are less than $5,000, according to council district service fund data. Council Member Carolyn Evans-Shabazz, too, uses some of her district service funds to partner with Harris County Area Agency on Aging for senior home repairs. Pollard said the initiatives have been ongoing for his office, but were just recently unrolled after his team figured out what residents needed and would use. His office also tested out a team that responds to illegal dumping, and a private heavy-trash team. We don't want to show any dissatisfaction with the city departments, but we also know that capacity is an issue when you have a city this large, Pollard said. Pollard hopes that through streamlining services through his council office, residents will have quicker responses and a higher level of efficiency. Home News Christian leaders unsure of future after meeting with new leader of Syria: 'We remain in limbo' Christian leaders in Syria meet with the country's new head of government but remain uncertain about its intentions, according to reports, which say no firm commitments emerged from the gathering, leaving the community uneasy about its role in a rapidly changing political landscape. Church representatives, including Franciscan friars and other clergy, met with Ahmad al-Sharaaalso known by his wartime alias Abu Mohammed Al Jolani, who leads the transitional administration that overthrew the previous regime on Dec. 8, 2024, at the People's Palace in the capital last week, Catholic New Agency reported Saturday. The attendees included Fr. Ibrahim Faltas, deputy custodian of the Holy Land, and Father Rami Elias, SJ, and they deliberated on matters concerning the Syrian Constitution, democracy and equality. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe It is ambiguous we cannot discern his true intentions, Fr. Elias was quoted as saying about the outcome of the meeting. There are no guarantees, and we remain in limbo. During the conversation, al-Sharaa recalled his time living among Christian communities in Damascus and Daraa, assuring the delegation that their interests would not be sidelined. However, Elias conveyed an undercurrent of anxiety among the clergy, telling reporters that the outcome was unclear. Our situation will not be worse than it was before, he said, encouraging Christian leaders to draft their own recommendations for the future Constitution, noting that possible amendments to the 1950 Constitution could gain traction among various groups. Three patriarchs of the Antiochian See residing in the capital did not attend the session; instead, they sent representatives. Other Christian denominations were present, including Orthodox, Catholic, Armenian Orthodox, Anglican and Syriac Orthodox clergy. The meeting came amid mounting fear among minorities, who are seeking assurances after the takeover by a coalition led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham. The civil war, ongoing for nearly 14 years, has fractured Syrian society along religious, ethnic and political lines. Al-Sharaa's administration faces the challenge of restoring calm in areas where vandalism and sectarian attacks have sparked protests. Hundreds of Christians recently demonstrated after a Christmas tree was set on fire by unknown perpetrators believed to be associated with a jihadist group, La Croix reported. Thousands of Alawite Syrians also took to the streets following an attack on one of their shrines. A local official from HTS condemned both incidents, but activists questioned whether the new authorities could adequately protect minority groups. Reports indicate that foreign governments are watching the new administration closely. According to Axios, U.S. envoy Daniel Rubinstein recently visited the capital and discussed concerns over ongoing violence with Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, the temporary foreign minister. Citing U.S. officials, Axios wrote that the envoy demanded explanations for multiple videos allegedly showing abuse and killings of minority communities, particularly Alawites. Al-Shibani responded that the new government rejects such acts and attributed them to other armed factions. The transitional authority also met with Kurdish representatives from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in an effort to broaden its base. The SDF, backed by Washington, has historically been at odds with Islamist-leaning factions, complicating alliances on the ground. Al-Sharaa, then known as Jolani, established HTS after severing ties with al-Qaeda in 2016. This rebranding marked a strategic shift as Jolani distanced his group, formerly known as Jabhat al-Nusra, from transnational jihadist goals, according to PBS Frontline. His trajectory as a militant began in Iraq, where he rose through the ranks of the Islamic State of Iraq (ISI) before founding Jabhat al-Nusra in Syria with the support of ISI's successor, IS. In its early years, Jabhat al-Nusra pledged allegiance to al-Qaeda, aligning with its global jihadist ideology. However, Jolani's decision to cut ties with al-Qaeda was seen as an effort to gain broader legitimacy, according to the Middle East Eye. This transition culminated in the formation of HTS in 2017, incorporating various Syrian opposition groups under a nationalist and ultraconservative Islamist framework. Home News Steve Bannon calls for 'exorcism' at White House after Biden honors George Soros with Medal of Freedom President Joe Biden is receiving widespread criticism for giving billionaire George Soros the Presidential Medal of Freedom in light of his work to elect prosecutors deemed by critics as being soft on crime. In a statement published Saturday, the Biden administration announced 19 recipients the president intended to award with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor, at a ceremony later that day. Among the names on the list was George Soros, described as an investor, philanthropist, and founder of the Open Society Foundations who has focused on global initiatives that strengthen democracy, human rights, education, and social justice through his network of foundations, partners and projects in more than 120 countries. 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 As explained by the White House, the Presidential Medal of Freedom is presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors. While Biden characterized Soros and the other recipients as great leaders who have made America and the world a better place, the presentation of the Presidential Medal of Freedom to the progressive billionaire did not sit well with critics of his administration. Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., published a post on X Saturday condemning the recognition of Soros as outrageous but not surprising. Alluding to Soros support for progressive district attorneys, Cotton cited Soros receiving the honor as evidence that Democratic politicians support criminals more than cops and want violent criminals back on the streets. Steve Bannon, a former advisor to President-elect Donald Trump during the early part of his first administration, reacted to Soros receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom on his War Room podcast Saturday. The demon himself is going to be in the White House, Bannon remarked. The first thing President Trump should do now, given what Bidens doing today with Soros and [former Secretary of State and first lady Hillary] Clinton, is we should have an exorcism, he added. Lets have an exorcism. You got to drive the demons out, the demon spirit of George Soros. Bannon encouraged Catholic priests and other religious figures to participate in the exorcism. Elon Musk, the CEO of X, SpaceX and Tesla, who is expected to have a non-official role in the forthcoming Trump administration, previously elaborated on the concerns and criticisms of Soros from the political right during an appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience last year. In my opinion, he fundamentally hates humanity, Musk said. Hes doing things that erode the fabric of civilization, you know, getting DAs elected who refuse to prosecute crime. Thats part of the problem in San Francisco and LA and a bunch of other cities. A 2024 report published by the Law Enforcement Legal Defense Fund revealed that Soros has spent more than $40 million to elect district attorney candidates across the United States and that 75 of them remained in office at the time of the reports publication. A 2023 report compiled by the Capital Research Center documented rising crime rates in several of the jurisdictions that had elected Soros-backed DAs as prosecutors. Backlash to rising crime rates that critics attributed to soft treatment given to criminals by many of the DAs backed by Soros led many of them to lose their reelection bids, which took place after the publication of one or both reports. Soros-backed prosecutors who lost reelection include several from deep-blue jurisdictions. In Los Angeles County, California, the largest county in the U.S. that is home to the city of Los Angeles, Soros-backed District Attorney George Gascon lost reelection by 23 points to challenger Nathan Hochman last year. According to the Capital Research Center, following Gascons initial election as district attorney, Homicide rates soared, organized shoplifting sprees ravaged the city, trains were stopped and ransacked by mobs of looters. Buta Biberaj, who served as Commonwealths Attorney in Loudoun County, Virginia, narrowly lost her 2023 reelection bid to challenger Bob Anderson. The Capital Research Center noted how Biberaj made headlines for personally seeking jail time for Scott Smith, a father who was arrested for misdemeanor disorderly conduct at a Loudoun County School Board meeting while protesting the school boards cover-up of his 14-year-old daughters rape by a trans-identified male student in a girls bathroom. In Alameda County, California, home to the city of Oakland, Soros-backed District Attorney Pamela Price was ousted in a recall election last year. The Capital Research Center report outlined how Price once told a crowd, We have to defund police, defund prosecutors, and divest from prisons, while she reduced the charges against a man who murdered three people in a shopping mall to one count of voluntary homicide and personal use of a gun because she believed the killer was just 18 then and is very sorry. Home News First Baptist Dallas downtown sanctuary mostly demolished; new building expected in 2028 First Baptist Dallas' historic downtown sanctuary, which was heavily damaged by a fire last year, has been mostly demolished, and a new building is expected to open by Easter 2028. The 134-year-old structure is now "a shell of its former self" as the interior has been hollowed out, The Dallas Morning News reported Sunday, adding that the two walls remaining could possibly be incorporated into the new building. Executive Pastor Ben Lovvorn told the newspaper that church leadership hopes the new sanctuary will be ready by Easter Sunday, 2028, although a cost estimate for the rebuild was not yet known. 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 While the congregation was "working to preserve as much of the exterior of the building as possible," Lovvorn said parts of the current structure still have to be demolished. "We've had crews out there who are removing a lot of that stonework very prudently and strategically, even by hand, to make sure that it is preserved," Lovvorn said. "It's different than going in with some wrecking ball and just knocking everything down." Last July, a four-alarm fire engulfed the downtown campus of First Baptist Dallas, a prominent megachurch of about 16,000 members founded in 1890 and headed by pastor and author Robert Jeffress. The historic red brick building was gutted by the fire, which originated in the basement and caused considerable damage but did not damage the pulpit. "We continue to praise God for His hand of protection on our church," the church stated in a Facebook post shortly after the fire occurred. "We are grateful that no one was injured today and are thankful for the first responders who helped contain the fire to our Historic Sanctuary. They continue working but the primary fire has been extinguished. One way or another, we intend to meet for church this Sunday." Many, including Christian Post Executive Editor Richard Land, the president emeritus of Southern Evangelical Seminary and former head of the Southern Baptist Convention's Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, had fond memories of the old sanctuary, which included teaching Sunday School at the campus. "Hundreds of faces and names from my years there immediately started flooding back into my memory," he wrote. "I had the privilege of teaching a 300-member Sunday school class called the Sheafor Bible Class for my entire 13 years there." "When my wife had a temporary health crisis while coping with three children (5, 2 and 2 months old), the blessed members of this class spontaneously organized and delivered evening meals for our family for approximately six weeks. I have never been part of a more loving and giving local church." An investigation had determined that arson was not the cause of the fire, although the exact cause of the blaze remains unknown. Home News Immigration agent murdered after asking migrants for ID in Mexico At least two Venezuelan migrants have been arrested in connection with the killing of a Mexican immigration agent who asked to see their identification papers, officials say. The agent murdered last Monday in the northern state of Chihuahua has been identified as Luis Alberto Olivas Garcia, whose body showed no signs of life when immigration officials discovered him earlier this week. Garcia was killed at a migration checkpoint around 30 miles south of the Mexican city of Ciudad Juarez, according to a statement from the National Migration Institute shared by The New York Times. The Mexican city is just across the border from the U.S. city of El Paso, Texas. 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 Mexican officials provided conflicting statements regarding the number of suspects arrested in connection with the agent's death. National authorities reported that three migrants had been arrested, two Venezuelan men and a Colombian man. But a Chihuahua security ministry spokesperson, Jorge Armendariz, said state authorities only had two Venezuelan men in custody. The Christian Post reached out to the Consular Section for clarification but did not receive a response before press time. According to Armendariz, preliminary reports found that the agent's body had wounds that may have occurred due to a sharp object and a head injury likely caused by a rock. Public security officials said that the body of the slain immigration agent showed "signs of violence," Reuters reported. It's not immediately clear what charges they are facing. The killing follows reports of migrants attempting to rush the border before the end of President Joe Biden's term. Trump and his team have discussed initiating deportations of illegal immigrants as part of the administration's promises to strengthen border security. Last week, a leaked Texas Department of Public Safety memo shared by The New York Post detailed members of the Tren de Aragua gang attacking a U.S. border gate. Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan criminal gang, has gained notoriety in the U.S. following reports of gang members allegedly taking over apartment buildings and committing other crimes. At least 20 members of the gang attempted to storm the U.S. border gate, according to the memo. The members carried blades, tire irons and broken bottles, and the memo warned of another planned attack on New Year's Day. Victor Avila, a retired agent for Homeland Security Investigations, told The New York Post that he believes the gang is trying to make its way into the United States because of Trump's promises to curb the flow of illegal immigration. "You're seeing that violence at the border because they know that it's going to change in 27 days. It's going to change. It's going to be different, and they're going to be sought after," he told The Post. Mexico is working on plans to take back its citizens who are deported after Trump's Inauguration Day, scheduled for Jan. 20. The Mexican government will open 25 shelters along its northern border for deported immigrants, Baja California Gov. Marina del Pilar Avila Olmeda told Border Report. Six facilities will be in Tijuana, with another two in Mexicali, Baja's capital city. Each of the facilities is capable of accommodating 500 people, and the shelters will either house single men, women or unaccompanied children or families. The shelters are scheduled to open their doors on Jan. 20. Home News John Piper identifies 3 challenges to reading through the Bible in a year: 'Satan hates the Word of God' Pastor and author John Piper has challenged Christians to read the entire Bible in 2025 but issued a clear warning the path will not be without challenges, as Satan hates the Word of God. In the latest episode of his Ask Pastor John podcast, the 78-year-old chancellor of Bethlehem College and Seminary in Minneapolis, Minnesota, addressed a listener named Mike, who asked for advice as he reads through the Bible this year. Let me give you three negatives to scare you off and nine positives to suck you back in, Piper said. 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 First, the Dont Waste Your Life author cautioned readers to expect opposition, as Satan hates the Word of God and will disincline you, blind you, distract you, bore you. He will fight with all his might to keep this from happening. So pray and fight and ask God to make all four of those things that Satan tries to do to backfire, to blow up in his face as you become a stronger warrior against him your heart inclined, your blindness removed, focus instead of distraction, excitement instead of boredom, he said. Second, the Bibles unflinching portrayal of sin and judgment can also be unsettling, Piper noted, so expect to be shocked. The outrage of sin and its graphic descriptions and the horrors of Gods judgment and the failures of Gods people are appalling in the Bible, he stressed. The Bible is stunningly graphic in its description of both our outrageous sin and Gods breathtaking judgment on sin. You will want to throw up if you have any kind of sympathetic engagement with the Bible at times when you see what God ordains against sin in this world. So, expect your views of man and God to be blown up in a good way. Finally, Piper acknowledged that confusion is a natural part of the journey and advised readers to expect to be confused. God conceals many things that wed like to know, he said, citing Deuteronomy 29:29, while also pointing to the inherent complexity of certain biblical texts. He emphasized the value of prayer, study and the guidance of experienced teachers to navigate difficult passages. [P]ray for illumination, he said. Do whatever digging in study helps you. Put things together that you can put together, and what you cant figure out, put on the shelf for later attention and keep on moving. If you get bogged down with what you cant understand, youll never finish the reading for the day. Listen to John Piper's "Desiring God" podcast on the Edifi Podcast Network Despite these challenges, Piper encouraged Christians to embrace the year-long commitment, highlighting nine benefits of reading the Bible, including strengthened faith, sanctification and unshakable joy. "Expect new power in war with Satan, because thats the way Jesus defeated him in the wilderness. He quoted Scripture to the devil, and the devil could not stand before it. He wont stand before you either. Hes a liar; hes a deceiver. He cant abide the truth. Youre filling your head up with the truth. Youre going to be a valiant warrior more than you dreamed against Satan," he said. This is a great resolve before you, Piper concluded. Youve got a great intention on your heart. Be valiant. Make a vow to the Lord to keep it, and you wont regret it. A recent study from The American Bible Society found that twice the number of Gen Zers surveyed (21%) said their Bible reading increased over the past year than those who said it decreased (9%). Sixteen percent of baby boomers and those born before 1946 witnessed an increase in Bible reading, along with 15% of Gen X adults. By contrast, 10% of the oldest adults and 9% of Gen X adults reported a drop in Bible reading. In recent years, podcasts and digital platforms dedicated to Bible reading and discussion have seen a surge in popularity. At the start of the podcast, Piper emphasized the use of the Navigators Bible Reading Plan, a resource he has followed for over two decades. The plan, which breaks the Bible into manageable daily readings, is designed to be completed in 300 days with just 15 minutes of reading per day. Meanwhile, The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) and The Bible Recap podcast with host Tara-Leigh Cobble are among Apples top 10 podcasts, each receiving about 6 million downloads a month. Last year, the podcast series "Bible in a Year with Jack Graham" hit the No. 1 spot on Apple's charts for religious podcasts and has surpassed 70 million downloads worldwide. The podcast began airing in Spanish last week. In an interview with The Christian Post, Graham, pastor of Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas, said that at a time when truth often seems relative and cultural values shift rapidly, Christians must make an effort to see the world through the lens of Scripture rather than allowing culture to dictate how they interpret the Bible. Jude 3 says we are to earnestly contend for the faith, and that reminds us that with all the worldviews that we hear and see out there, with so many lies in the culture, so many lies we tell ourselves, the only way to overcome this attack on truth is using truth to support our faith and our beliefs, he said. In a world that is filled with unbelief, we should graciously, but yet forcefully, understand our Bible and proclaim this message without apology, he added. In the culture today, it's important that we give reasonable evidence for the faith, and that we proclaim Scripture with confidence and certainty and conviction. And when we do that, the Word of God works, and there's power in the Scripture to counteract all the works of darkness. Home News Justin Welby officially resigns, must get permission to perform any future services Justin Welby officially resigned at midnight Monday, ending his tenure as the archbishop of Canterbury. He must now obtain permission from a bishop before leading any services or performing other priestly duties. Under Church of England rules, Welby, the 105th archbishop of Canterbury, is now unable to officiate as a priest unless he obtains prior authorization from a bishop. Such permission would be up to them (the bishop), The U.K. Times quoted a source as saying. Former archbishops are generally understood to have been granted this approval, though there is no assurance Welby will receive it. It would not be granted immediately or automatically, instead requiring a period of discernment in conjunction with a diocesan bishop, the source added. 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 Welby spent his final day in office privately at Lambeth Palace, participating in a lunchtime Eucharist and later a service of Evensong, during which he laid down his ceremonial bishops crozier, according to The Telegraph. His departure follows criticism related to sexual abuse allegations in the Church of England. Separately, Welby was also criticized by conservative members of the denomination for blocking a disciplinary case against the Bishop of Derby, the Rt. Rev. Libby Lane, who labeled the Rev. Bernard Randall, an ordained Church of England chaplain, a safeguarding risk due to his traditional Christian views on gender identity. Keith Makin, a former social services director, conducted a review that examined allegations against John Smyth, a barrister who was accused of assaulting multiple boys over a period of years. The U.K. Times reports that Welby was assured police had been informed of the allegations but was criticized for not doing more to confirm the matter was investigated thoroughly. An earlier independent review concluded Smyth might have been brought to justice if Welby had filed a formal police report in 2013. Some Church of England officials who were aware of Smyths behavior for decades have had their own permissions to officiate suspended while inquiries continue. Welby has made few appearances since mid-November and did not give a Christmas sermon at Canterbury Cathedral. He also didn't deliver his usual New Years Day message. The Childrens Society also turned down a Christmas donation from him, explaining that accepting it would not be consistent with the principles and values that underpin our work, according to the Telegraph. The newspaper also noted that Welby, in his final speech in the House of Lords, referred to a 14th century beheading, drawing laughter from peers and prompting an apology after an abuse survivor described it as tone deaf. From Tuesday, key functions of the Archbishop of Canterbury are expected to be split among three senior Church of England figures. The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, will assume most duties; the Bishop of London, Dame Sarah Mullally, and the Bishop of Dover, Rose Hudson-Wilkin, will carry out other tasks, including work within the Diocese of Canterbury. Cottrell also faces criticism over his handling of a distinct abuse case, though he recently pledged to do what I can to allow independent oversight of the denomination's safeguarding. The search for the next archbishop of Canterbury is now underway, with an announcement possible this autumn. A 17-person Crown Nominations Commission, overseen by a former head of MI5, is responsible for drawing up a list of candidates, conducting interviews and submitting a final name confidentially. The Bishop of Leicester, the Right Rev. Martyn Snow, and the Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham, the Right Rev. Paul Williams, have been mentioned as potential successors, both identified as belonging to the conservative wing of the denomination. The Times noted that the Iranian-born Bishop of Chelmsford, the Right Rev. Guli Francis-Dehqani, has been named as a possible first female archbishop, although some members of the worldwide Anglican Communion might not accept a woman in that role. The Telegraph added that Mullally, the bishop of London, and the Bishop of Norwich, the Right Rev. Graham Usher, have also been mentioned. Home News Louisiana AG offers prayers after prosecutor investigating sex crimes found dead in apparent suicide Louisana Attorney General Liz Murrill has offered her prayers and support to the family of New Orleans Assistant District Attorney Ian Kersting who was found dead at work from an apparent suicide, according to local police. Im praying for him and his family and the entire @orleansparishdas office, Murrill wrote in a statement on X Sunday. To anyone struggling with grief, loss, or depression having thoughts of suicide, please call the suicide hotline number at 988. Kersting, 34, was a member of The Sexual Assault Kit Initiative Unit of the Orleans Parish District Attorneys Office charged with re-investigating and prosecuting cold-case sexual assaults through the use of recovered DNA evidence. 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 Police said he was found dead around 9 p.m. Central time on Saturday with a self-inflicted gunshot wound inside the DAs office building in New Orleans, Fox 8 reported. The DAs office remained closed Monday as they mourned his loss. They called his passing a terrible tragedy in a statement. The Orleans Parish DAs Office family suffered a terrible tragedy Saturday night, the DAs office said. Assistant District Attorney Ian Kersting was a beloved member of our office, and we send our love and deepest condolences to his family. Its important that we support each other right now, and we ask the media [to] respect the privacy of the individuals impacted, the statement added. A spokesman for the DAs office said in a statement to WWL Louisiana that the entire OPDA team will be addressed by grief and trauma counselors in the wake of an unexpected tragedy. We extend our deepest gratitude to the judges of Criminal District Court and Juvenile Court, as well as the Orleans Public Defenders, for their extraordinary compassion and humanity during this challenging time, as there will be members of our staff who will require time to cope and heal, the spokesman said. Kerstings legal career in Louisiana was young. Records cited by WWL Louisiana show he was admitted to the Louisiana bar just over four years ago on Oct. 30, 2020. Still, he and his team had been securing justice for sexual abuse victims. In a statement on Instagram last March, the OPDA praised Kersting and his team for helping to secure a guilty verdict against a defendant who was charged with attempted first-degree rape and indecent behavior with a juvenile younger than 13. Following deliberation, the jury delivered its verdict: guilty of attempted 1st-degree rape and guilty as charged for the indecent behavior charge, the OPDA noted. The successful outcome underscores the dedication and skill of our team in pursuing justice for the most vulnerable members of our community. Home News Pastor questioned, congregants searched as Miami police interrupt service in search of children Pastor E.J. Newton of 433 Church in Miami, Florida, says he was questioned and his congregants searched after officers from the Miami Police Department forced an abrupt end to his sermon over a child custody dispute between him and his ex-wife Marissa Pardun. A recording of the incident captured during the churchs YouTube Live broadcast of the service shows Newton, 34, ending his sermon in just under 12 minutes and advising his shocked congregants to pray as he left his pulpit to talk with officers. The Miami Police Department did not immediately provide their account of what happened next when contacted by The Christian Post on Monday. 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 Newton alleged in a statement on Instagram that he was "secluded" from his church members because a judge granted an emergency extraction of his children. Court documents reviewed by CP show he was not forewarned about the extraction because there was concern he would flee with his children. Ive been secluded by the police, not allowed to leave, Newton wrote in a post that included a video of police officers on church property. Now, theyre searching members cars and preventing them from leaving church grounds. Last Friday, Circuit Court Judge Samantha Ruiz Cohen granted an ex parte emergency motion for the return of Newtons three minor children filed by Pardun because Newton violated a custody agreement and allegedly threatened to take them to his native Nigeria. The Petitioner is in fear that the Respondent is making arrangements to flee the United States to Nigeria which is Respondents country of origin. The Respondent has threatened to take the children out of the country and the Respondent is in possession of the three childrens passports. The Respondent has refused to allow the Petitioner to see the children and continues to conceal the minor children and their whereabouts, the motion said. The Petitioner has made multiple attempts to have the Respondent served with the pleadings. Due to the Respondents behavior with regard to the minor children, it is reasonable to believe that advanced notice of this motion and hearing date would cause Respondent to flee and conceal the whereabouts of the minor children. Online media personality Larry Reid, who first highlighted the police intervention at Newtons church on his "Larry Reid Live" Facebook page on Sunday, raised concern about how the dispute between Newton and his ex-wife has affected their children. I cant imagine how he (Newton) felt and what he thought in that moment. The kids are the main victims here in my opinion. The whole church is locked down with guns drawn until the kids are returned along with their passports, Reid wrote. In his Instagram statement, Newton alleged that rivals who he only referenced as THEY, had weaponized his ex-wife to make false allegations against him because he would not stop speaking truth and exposing darkness. The moment I stepped off stage, our online service was flooded with false accusations. THEY the same people who recruited my ex-wife are now working together. They have my ex-wife claiming that Im trying to flee the country in the middle of a parenting schedule case. A judge granted an emergency extraction, he explained. They had people come also into the service which we spotted. This whole thing has been so weird. The Miami pastor, who could not be reached for additional comment, insisted that he had no plans to stop his ministry because God will prevail. I will not stop speaking truth and exposing darkness. If this is the cost of repentance and speaking up against occultism and witchcraft in the church, then use me, Lord. Purify me. Strengthen me. Make me more like You, he shared with a crying emoji. I love my children, and this breaks my heart. My babies do not deserve this. I am a great father. A great husband. Since the pick-up of the children was ordered, he and his ex-wife are expected to appear in court for an evidentiary hearing on Jan. 13. (Photo: Getty/iStock) (CP) Christian leaders in Syria meet with the country's new head of government but remain uncertain about its intentions, according to reports, which say no firm commitments emerged from the gathering, leaving the community uneasy about its role in a rapidly changing political landscape. Church representatives, including Franciscan friars and other clergy, met with Ahmad al-Sharaa also known by his wartime alias Abu Mohammed Al Jolani, who leads the transitional administration that overthrew the previous regime on Dec. 8, 2024, at the People's Palace in the capital last week, Catholic New Agency reported Saturday. The attendees included Fr. Ibrahim Faltas, deputy custodian of the Holy Land, and Father Rami Elias, SJ, and they deliberated on matters concerning the Syrian Constitution, democracy and equality. "It is ambiguous we cannot discern his true intentions," Fr. Elias was quoted as saying about the outcome of the meeting. "There are no guarantees, and we remain in limbo." During the conversation, al-Sharaa recalled his time living among Christian communities in Damascus and Daraa, assuring the delegation that their interests would not be sidelined. However, Elias conveyed an undercurrent of anxiety among the clergy, telling reporters that the outcome was unclear. "Our situation will not be worse than it was before," he said, encouraging Christian leaders to draft their own recommendations for the future Constitution, noting that possible amendments to the 1950 Constitution could gain traction among various groups. Three patriarchs of the Antiochian See residing in the capital did not attend the session; instead, they sent representatives. Other Christian denominations were present, including Orthodox, Catholic, Armenian Orthodox, Anglican and Syriac Orthodox clergy. The meeting came amid mounting fear among minorities, who are seeking assurances after the takeover by a coalition led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS). The civil war, ongoing for nearly 14 years, has fractured Syrian society along religious, ethnic and political lines. Al-Sharaa's administration faces the challenge of restoring calm in areas where vandalism and sectarian attacks have sparked protests. Hundreds of Christians recently demonstrated after a Christmas tree was set on fire by unknown perpetrators believed to be associated with a jihadist group, La Croix reported. Thousands of Alawite Syrians also took to the streets following an attack on one of their shrines. A local official from HTS condemned both incidents, but activists questioned whether the new authorities could adequately protect minority groups. Reports indicate that foreign governments are watching the new administration closely. According to Axios, U.S. envoy Daniel Rubinstein recently visited the capital and discussed concerns over ongoing violence with Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, the temporary foreign minister. Citing U.S. officials, Axios wrote that the envoy demanded explanations for multiple videos allegedly showing abuse and killings of minority communities, particularly Alawites. Al-Shibani responded that the new government rejects such acts and attributed them to other armed factions. The transitional authority also met with Kurdish representatives from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in an effort to broaden its base. The SDF, backed by Washington, has historically been at odds with Islamist-leaning factions, complicating alliances on the ground. Al-Sharaa, then known as Jolani, established HTS after severing ties with al-Qaeda in 2016. This rebranding marked a strategic shift as Jolani distanced his group, formerly known as Jabhat al-Nusra, from transnational jihadist goals, according to PBS Frontline. His trajectory as a militant began in Iraq, where he rose through the ranks of the Islamic State of Iraq (ISI) before founding Jabhat al-Nusra in Syria with the support of ISI's successor, IS. In its early years, Jabhat al-Nusra pledged allegiance to al-Qaeda, aligning with its global jihadist ideology. However, Jolani's decision to cut ties with al-Qaeda was seen as an effort to gain broader legitimacy, according to the Middle East Eye. This transition culminated in the formation of HTS in 2017, incorporating various Syrian opposition groups under a nationalist and ultraconservative Islamist framework. The Christian Post Xiplomacy: Xi's New Year cards cement friendship between Chinese, Americans Xinhua) 08:01, January 06, 2025 A student (L) of the Muscatine High School delegation takes selfies at the Palace Museum in Beijing, capital of China, April 18, 2024. (Photo by Liu Zunshuan/Xinhua) "People-to-people exchanges -- direct communications between Chinese people and their foreign counterparts in all walks of life -- form part of the foundation of President Xi's international way of thinking," Robert Lawrence Kuhn, chairman of the Kuhn Foundation, told Xinhua. BEIJING, Jan. 5 (Xinhua) -- "I felt extremely grateful when I received the greeting card from President Xi," said Brian Suy, an 11th grader from the Lincoln High School in the U.S. state of Washington. On Jan. 1, Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife, Peng Liyuan, replied to a New Year card from representatives of middle school teachers and students from Washington state. In their reply card, the couple expressed their hope that the youth of China and the United States will continue to participate in China's initiative of inviting 50,000 young Americans to China for exchange and study programs in a five-year span. Earlier, the U.S.-China Youth and Student Exchange Association, as well as representatives of teachers and students from Lincoln High School and Stadium High School, who have visited China through the initiative, sent a New Year card to Xi, Peng and the Chinese people. "I am willing to be a successor to keep the relations of the people of China and America strong and close," Suy told Xinhua. "I believe that the world will ultimately be a better place if future generations strengthen these connections." The school drum band performs during a farewell ceremony at Lincoln High School in Tacoma, Washington State, the United States, Jan. 30, 2024. (Xinhua/Wu Xiaoling) BRIDGE OF FRIENDSHIP After having received New Year cards twice from Xi and his wife in reply to their greetings, teachers and students from Washington state are greatly encouraged, said Zhou Shuqi, co-chair of the U.S.-China Youth and Student Exchange Association. In February 2024, Xi and Peng extended their good wishes for the Year of the Dragon in their card to Lincoln High School, inviting students to visit China more often, including through the "50,000 in five years" initiative. These cards are a token of U.S.-China friendship and a bridge that connects young people, which "motivate us to move forward," said Zhou. Over a year, about 14,000 American youths have visited China for exchanges and study. "Our experience in China was incredibly rich and rewarding," Stadium High School Principal Shannon Marshall said. "This experience has created long-lasting friendship between American students and Chinese students." "We would love to send more students in 2025 and are so thankful for the opportunities," she said. "It was a privilege to have been able to sign a greeting card for President Xi," said Lucy Arceno, a student from Lincoln High School. Recalling her China trip, she said what impressed her the most was the hospitality of the Chinese people. "I made quite a few Chinese friends," she said. "One of my Chinese friends had this to say after we got to know each other, 'gradually it dawned on me that we are of no difference.' I found this to be a very beautiful statement about friendships." "People-to-people exchanges -- direct communications between Chinese people and their foreign counterparts in all walks of life -- form part of the foundation of President Xi's international way of thinking," Robert Lawrence Kuhn, chairman of the Kuhn Foundation, told Xinhua. "President Xi puts extra emphasis on people-to-people exchanges" in the development of bilateral relations, Kuhn said. Chinese President Xi Jinping (back, 4th L) and his wife Peng Liyuan (back, 2nd L) greet teachers and students during their visit to Lincoln High School in Tacoma of Washington State, the United States, Sept. 23, 2015. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing) FRIENDSHIP THAT ENDURES For Lincoln High School, warm interactions with Xi have been maintained for long. As early as in 1993, Xi visited the school as then secretary of the Fuzhou Municipal Committee of the Communist Party of China. In September 2015, he revisited the school with Peng during his first state visit to the United States as Chinese president, and encouraged students to travel to China to become more familiar with the country. During their stay, the couple enjoyed in the school's auditorium a choir performance by students from both countries. Lynn Eisenhauer, a music teacher at the school, was present. "I have had the amazing opportunity to travel throughout China three times during 2024," she told Xinhua in a recent interview. "Many of my friendships with Chinese teachers and students have begun while learning to do calligraphy together, singing side by side, or doing Tai Chi with each other." Eisenhauer was amazed that when she joined a group from Washington state to visit China last year, an opportunity came for the group to perform again before Peng during a China-U.S. youth exchange activity in Beijing, which was "a truly magical memory." "One of the ways our friendships continue to grow is through these shared experiences and the common bonds they help us to create," Eisenhauer said. "Peaceful connections and enduring friendships can make the world a better place for all of us." Maurice Chong from Washington state participated both in the choir in 2015 and the youth exchange activity in 2024. Now an exchange student at Peking University, Chong said he was inspired by Xi to study abroad back in 2015, when the Chinese president encouraged them with a Chinese adage: "Read 10,000 books and travel 10,000 miles." Xi's initiative to invite American students to China "will indeed have a big effect on people-to-people relations between the U.S. and China, and that's what we need," said Elyn MacInnis, founder of "Friends of Kuliang," a group gathering descendants of U.S. families who once lived in Kuliang, Fujian Province. Communication is a good bridge to build trust, "and trust is very important for friendship," MacInnis said. Jeffrey Greene, chairman of the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation, has a touch of the wreckage from Flying Tigers bombers displayed at an exhibition in Huimin Village in Anqing City, east China's Anhui Province, Sept. 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Guo Chen) "LONG LIVE PEACE" The year 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. During World War II, China and the United States fought together for peace and justice, and the friendship between the two peoples stood the test of blood and fire and is growing ever stronger, Xi and Peng said in their New Year card. The couple's words were in response to the U.S. students' card to them, which paid tribute to this part of history. "'Long Live Peace; Eternal Friendship.' We wrote this wish in our card," said David Chong, founder and president of the U.S.-China Youth and Student Exchange Association. "We want to convey the significance of maintaining world peace and the longing for future peace to young people of both countries, and encourage them to inherit this precious friendship," Chong said. Among those sending the card was William Felagai, a 12th grader from Lincoln High School, who recalled hearing about the bilateral friendship from a Flying Tiger veteran. During World War II, a U.S. air squadron composed of pilots from the United States Army Air Corps, Navy, and Marine Corps helped the Chinese fight Japanese invaders. They are better known as the Flying Tigers. "He talked about how U.S. soldiers and pilots found refuge with Chinese villagers who were willing to risk not only themselves and their families' lives but their whole village from destruction by the Japanese military," Felagai said. Jeffrey Greene, chairman of the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation, said that Xi has recalled the epic of the Flying Tigers on many occasions, including in a reply letter to the foundation in 2023. The foundation has launched a Flying Tigers Friendship School and Youth Leaders Program, with the participation of dozens of Chinese and U.S. middle schools and universities. The program brought students from 11 U.S. states to visit China in 2024, and will be expanded in the new year, Greene said. "I'm very proud of the way that they've all understood the importance of what happened between China and the United States 80 years ago," he said. "What they learn is that there's tremendous opportunity for cooperation between the Chinese people and the American people in the future." (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Supreme Court justices Jimmy Blacklock, left, Jeff Boyd and Jane Bland listen during the Texas Access to Justice Foundation Luncheon with the Supreme Court of Texas in Austin on Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2022. Billy Calzada/Staff photographer Gov. Greg Abbott on Monday appointed one of his office's former lawyers to the Texas Supreme Court and another to replace the court's Chief Justice Nathan Hecht, who retired last month. Abbott's general counsel James P. Sullivan is taking a seat on the bench and Jimmy Blacklock, who has been on the court since 2018 and previously worked as Abbott's general counsel, will replace Hecht. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Hecht, who reached the state's mandatory retirement age of 75 in August, was the states longest-serving justice on the high court with a more than 35-year tenure. "I am grateful for his dedication to the rule of law and his service to our great state, Abbott said in a statement. He added Blacklock was a principled jurist while serving on the highest court in Texas and will be steadfast in his commitment to the rule of law as the courts next Chief Justice. The court handles final appeals for all civil matters, including business disputes and child protective cases. Blacklock, a Houston native and University of Texas at Austin and Yale Law School graduate, has served on the court since January 2018. He previously clerked for Judge Jerry Smith on the New Orleans-based 5th Circuit Court of Appeals and worked in private practice in Houston and Austin. Before becoming Abbotts general counsel, he worked in the Texas Attorney Generals office for six years. Sullivan, a Rice University and Harvard law graduate, has served as Abbotts top lawyer for the last three years. He previously served as Abbotts deputy general counsel, assistant solicitor general of Texas, and as a law clerk to Judge Thomas B. Griffith on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. Advertisement Article continues below this ad He has also spent time working as an adjunct professor at George Mason University and an appellate litigator in private practice. As general counsel for the Office of the Governor, James Sullivan has provided superior legal advice and rendered opinions on some of the most consequential legal issues in Texas, Abbott said in a statement. He has the integrity, temperament, and experience Texas needs as a Texas Supreme Court Justice. (Photo: Lambeth Palace) Justin Welby's tenure as Archbishop of Canterbury ends at midnight on Monday two months after his resignation over safeguarding failures in the Church of England. Welby took up the post in 2013 but announced his resignation last November following the publication of the Makin Review which held him partly responsible for failures in the handling of the John Smyth case. The late Smyth used Christian camps to groom boys and young men for sadistic abuse. The Makin Review said that Welby had failed to ensure that Smyth's abuse was reported to police, and that he could have and should have done more to bring him to justice. Announcing his resignation, Welby said, "It is very clear that I must take personal and institutional responsibility for the long and retraumatising period between 2013 and 2024." He continued, "I hope this decision makes clear how seriously the Church of England understands the need for change and our profound commitment to creating a safer church. As I step down I do so in sorrow with all victims and survivors of abuse." Welby's official duties will end after an evensong service at Lambeth Palace on Monday evening. It is not certain where he will go next or whether he will assume priestly duties again - he would need to be granted a Permission to Officiate (PTO) by his area bishop. During his tenure, Welby played an important role in key state events. He officiated the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and the funeral of the late Queen Elizabeth II, and also coronated King Charles III and Queen Camilla. However, he was also accused of leading the Church away from biblical teaching on marriage and sexuality. Even before he stepped down over the Smyth scandal, there were calls for his resignation after he said that gay sex in a committed relationship was not sinful. "The Archbishop of Canterbury not only rejected biblical marriage; he rejected Christ," said Christian Concern's Andrea Williams at the time. "Therefore, even before the publication of the Makin Review, Welby disqualified himself from holding such a position of power within the bride of Christ, the Church." Temporary leadership of the Church of England will be assumed by the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, until Welby's successor is appointed. Cottrell has himself faced calls to resign over his handling of a separate safeguarding case involving a priest. Canterbury Cathedral in Kent. (Photo: Getty/iStock) The Church of England has been much in the news in recent months. Among the many issues that have dominated the headlines has been the role and responsibilities of the Archbishop of Canterbury. This was Justin Welby until his recent resignation over safeguarding issues. As the established church in England prepares to replace him as its overall leader, the spotlight is falling on how the Church of England is structured and governed. And this raises some fascinating questions regarding how early medieval history lies behind the authority structure of the twenty-first century Church of England. The structure of the Church of England today The Church of England today is led by the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Archbishop of York, along with 106 other bishops. Consequently, the episcopal (i.e. led by bishops) established church in England is structured into two provinces: the Province of Canterbury and the Province of York. The Church of England is composed of 42 dioceses (regional areas), each of which is led by a diocesan bishop, with most of these supported by additional ('suffragan' or 'area') bishops. The head church in a diocese is a cathedral. The area governed by a bishop is technically known as a 'see'. The word 'see' is derived from the Latin word 'sedes', meaning seat or chair, and originally referred to where a bishop (literally) sat in authority. This symbolic bishop's chair is also known as the bishop's 'cathedra', hence the term 'cathedral'. Each diocese in England is divided into parishes. Each parish is overseen by a parish priest (usually called a 'vicar,' 'rector,' or 'incumbent'). They and their bishop are responsible for what is officially termed the 'cure of souls' in their parish - there are about 12,300 parishes. The monarch, in this case His Majesty, King Charles III, is the supreme governor of the Church of England. The king appoints archbishops, bishops and deans of cathedrals on the advice of the prime minister. This position as supreme governor of the Church of England has existed since Henry VIII's break with Rome in the 16th century, as part of what became the English version of the European Reformation. After the Reformation, the national church in England continued to be called the 'Church of England' as it had frequently customarily been described before, during the medieval period but it repudiated the supremacy of the pope as its leader. Consequently, it became a national church, rather than a national unit within an international church structure (i.e. the Roman Catholic Church) under one leader (i.e. the pope). To put it simply: Henry VIII, in effect, nationalised the church in England. Despite this huge change, it retained its ancient episcopal (led by regional bishops) structure. By the 1534 Act of Supremacy, Henry VIII became 'Supreme Head of the Church of England'; then, by the 1559 Act of Supremacy, Elizabeth I became 'Supreme Governor of the Church of England'. Both titles and roles supplanted the position previously held by the pope. The official CofE website explains the relative episcopal hierarchy in England under its section on 'Leadership and governance' in these terms: "The Archbishop of Canterbury is the most senior bishop of the Church and has oversight for the ministry and mission in the southern two-thirds of England. He also fills a unique position in the worldwide Anglican Church as spiritual leader. "The second most senior bishop is the Archbishop of York and has oversight for the ministry and mission in the northern third of England. Together they lead the vision and direction of the Church of England." It should be noted that the monarch does not hold the title 'Supreme Governor' of the Church of Scotland (unlike his title in the Church of England). The independence of the Presbyterian Church of Scotland was hard-wired into the arrangements that were hammered out in the Act of Union, 1707. As a result, British monarchs swear to uphold the Protestant religion in Scotland and maintain the Presbyterian Church Government there; with the Accession Oath reflecting the constitutional independence of the Scottish Church from the state. The Church of Scotland is entirely self-governing. It is managed on a local level by kirk sessions, at a regional level by presbyteries, and at a national level by the General Assembly. Finally, the Church in Wales (not 'Church of Wales') was disestablished and separated from the Province of Canterbury by an act of Parliament in 1920. The Archbishop of Wales does not have a fixed archiepiscopal see, but serves concurrently as one of the six diocesan bishops in Wales. The early medieval roots of the two provinces in the Church of England Looking at the modern structure of the established Church of England, two questions immediately come to mind: why two archbishops? And why in Canterbury and York? It is a curious feature of ancient English history that the established church in the country has two provinces and that their archbishops are located in Canterbury and York. We have only the vaguest idea of the way that the Christian church was structured in Britain by the end of the Roman Empire. The empire had become officially Christian in the 4th century but there were Christians in Britain well before this and their church community exhibited the same characteristics of organisation found across the Roman Empire. They were organised under bishops, who were located in Roman urban centres. We know that three British bishops attended the imperial council at Arles in 314. These were probably from what are now London, York and Lincoln. We can assume that other bishops existed, based in other towns that were the key urban sites within a region. There was probably one based in what is now Cirencester. By the end of the Roman Empire, it is likely that Christians (whether nominal or committed) made up a sizable proportion of the population in Roman Britain. However, these were probably concentrated in urban settings and also among many of the villa-owning class and on their estates, in the army, and in the imperial administration. During the 5th century, Roman rule ended in Britain, central governmental authority collapsed, political power fragmented, urban centres declined (this decay of towns had started well before the end of Roman rule) and large areas of, what is now, eastern England came under the control of Germanic pagan rulers and settlers (often termed 'Anglo-Saxons,' but the ethnic make-up was much more complex). These incomers we term 'Early English', and they battled each other and rival British kingdoms for supremacy. What had once been Roman Britain broke up into a fractious mosaic of warring little kingdoms. This would last in England until one unified kingdom of the English finally emerged in the later 10th century. The jury is still out on how many of these 'Early English' were actual immigrants from northern Europe and how many were indigenous Britons who had adapted to the arrival of new warrior rulers by 'acculturating' to the new realities in terms of language, dress, and crucially religion. What is clear is that an officially Christian part of the Roman Empire had become largely pagan in its eastern regions, while its western regions continued to maintain a Christian culture. The stage was set for Christian missionary activity to bring things back to Christian faith in areas lost to Germanic paganism. This Christian missionary activity was largely undertaken by Irish missionaries in the north and west; and then by a missionary expedition launched from Rome and led by a man named Augustine. Other Christians were also involved. These included the activities of continental Christians from the Franks (in what is now France). Their role is evidenced by later contacts between England and the Frankish Church. In addition, the letters of Pope Gregory the Great, relating to the mission of Augustine, make it clear that this 'Roman' mission benefited from help given it by the Frankish Church. British Christians were almost certainly involved too but we think were written out of history by the later Northumbrian (English) writer Bede, due to ethnic antagonism regarding the British. The first Christian missionaries to the southern Anglo-Saxons were sent by Pope Gregory the Great, and they arrived in Kent in the year 597. The leader of this missionary activity, Augustine, quickly converted King Ethelbert of the kingdom of Kent. His queen, Bertha, a Frankish princess, was already a Christian and this may have helped in the conversion process since she had earlier been accompanied to Kent by a Christian chaplain. Augustine founded what was later called St Augustine's Abbey at Canterbury. It should be noted that this Augustine (sometimes called the 'Apostle to the English') is not the same as St Augustine of Hippo (in North Africa) who earlier had written the famous book entitled the City of God. About 30 years later another member of the 'Roman' missionary campaign, named Paulinus, baptised King Edwin of Northumbria at York. In this we can begin to see the outline of an organisational structure that is still with us today. Why Canterbury and York? Late Roman Britain was administered from a number of regional centres but the preeminent of these were located in what is now London (Londinium) and York (Eboracum). That in the north was key to a more militarised zone; while that in the south was the major entry point from the continental empire. After Roman Britain fragmented in the 5th century, warring Early English kingdoms battled for mastery. While they aspired to dominate the whole of what later became England, these overlords frequently more easily dominated the land north or south of the Humber estuary. These 'Northumbrian' and 'Southumbrian' overlordships mirrored the old Roman political structures. It seems clear that the 597 mission sent by Pope Gregory was intended to be based on this Late Roman administrative structure, with one head bishop (an archbishop) based in London and one based in York, with regional bishops under them. The plan for London did not work out because, in the 7th century, that settlement was part of the newly converted kingdom of Essex which temporarily lapsed into paganism. This caused a relocation back to Canterbury, in the kingdom of Kent, where the conversion process had started; and this fossilised as the location of the archbishop of the southern half of England. Paulinus was intended to be the first archbishop of York in the 630s, but upheavals in the Northumbrian kingdom caused him to leave York and become bishop of Rochester instead. As a result, the holder of the position in York operated as a diocesan, rather than archdiocesan prelate, until Ecgbert of York received the official insignia of an archbishop (the 'pallium') from Pope Gregory III in 735 and then established what are called metropolitan rights in the north. So, the key locations became Canterbury and York, not London and York. A 7th-century series of events decided the location of the two archbishops in England. For a brief time (from 787 to 803) there was a third archbishop and province based on Lichfield, in Staffordshire, but this did not last. The primacy of Canterbury That Canterbury today has precedence over York was not a foregone conclusion. In 1071, Lanfranc, Archbishop of Canterbury, and Thomas of Bayeux, Archbishop of York, put the question to Pope Alexander II, who decided that Canterbury was to have precedence and that, in future, Archbishops of York would have to be consecrated by, and swear allegiance to, the Archbishop of Canterbury. This precedence was overturned in 1119 but was finally settled by Pope Innocent VI in the 14th century, when precedence was once more given to Canterbury. Canterbury would be acknowledged as 'Primate of All England' and York would be titled 'Primate of England'. Canterbury's supremacy over York was increased just before the 16th-century Reformation, when its archbishop came to exercise the powers of papal legate throughout England. Soon a new Archbishop of Canterbury will be appointed to sit in the 'Chair of St Augustine' (in Latin, the 'Cathedra Augustini'), in Canterbury Cathedral, in Kent. When that occurs it will continue a process which stretches back to the original mission that took place in 597. Martyn Whittock is a historian and a Licensed Lay Minister in the Church of England. The author, or co-author, of fifty-six books, his work covers a wide range of historical and theological themes. In addition, as a commentator and columnist, he has written for several print and online news platforms and is frequently interviewed on TV and radio news and discussion programmes exploring the interaction of faith and politics. His recent books include: Trump and the Puritans (2020), Daughters of Eve (2021), Jesus The Unauthorized Biography (2021), The End Times, Again? (2021), The Story of the Cross (2021), Apocalyptic Politics (2022), and American Vikings: How the Norse Sailed into the Lands and Imaginations of America (2023). He is currently writing Vikings in the East: From Vladimir the Great to Vladimir Putin, the Origin of a Contested Legacy in Russia and Ukraine (2025 forthcoming). The Council of Europe is launching the international call for tenders for the development of an IT tool (software) for the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Moldova For detailed information, follow the link. Deadline for submission of tenders is February 16, 2025. Alte articole de la acest autor: Colorado Gov. Jared Polis wants to spin off the states stake in Pinnacol Assurance, privatizing the workers compensation carrier of last resort to help it make more money and plug government budget holes. The big idea is that pulling up stakes from the quasi-governmental insurance company would help the states ailing budget. The governor is proposing roughly $630 million less in general fund than the current spending plan, according to reporting from Colorado Politics. Spinning it off from the government would allow the state to recoup its investment in the business at a time when budget writers need to fill a budget hole that, as of a Dec. 19 projection, is estimated at $672 million, the Denver Post is reporting. That gap for the coming fiscal year, which starts July 1, would rise beyond $1 billion if lawmakers opt to set aside the entire $350 million mandated for a new law enforcement fund by a successful November ballot initiative. This is the third time in a decade that state leaders have put forth the idea of privatizing Pinnacol. Lawmakers have yet to express enough support or opposition to get a handle on what the proposals chances are, possibly want more details before committing to the move, several Colorado media outlets are reporting. Pinnacol provides workers comp coverage to more than 50,000 businesses in Colorado. Polis plan calls for the state to take $100 million a year from the Pinnacol for five years to cover the states work in creating the entity Pinnacol has been struggling with regard to how they can engage with employers in a changing world, Polis recently told the media. We want to make sure that we can future-proof and reform Pinnacol. A privatized Pinnacol could offer insurance across state lines and sell coverage on the open market for additional revenue to help the carrier remain solvent. Lawmakers created the workers comp carrier in 1915 and exempted it from state and federal taxes that other insurers pay to offer workers comp policies to all Colorado companies, including those deemed too high-risk by the private market. Its structure limits Pinnacols to selling policies only in Colorado and selling only workers comp plans, two restrictions that now are costing the company business, according to the Colorado business publication the Sum & Substance. PayPal has been sued by an Asian American businesswoman who accused the digital payments company of racial bias for restricting part of a $535 million investment program to Black and Hispanic applicants, costing her millions of dollars. The complaint by Nisha Desai and her New York-based venture capital firm Andav Capital is part of a growing push among some conservatives to curtail diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in corporate America. Born to and raised by immigrant parents in the Deep South, Desai thought herself a good fit for PayPals investment program, which the San Jose, California-based company announced in June 2020 to support Black and minority-owned businesses and help address economic inequality. Desai said she spent 1-1/2 months seeking funding before PayPal stopped communicating, even as the company invested $100 million in 19 venture capital firms led by Blacks and Hispanics. She said PayPal has told multiple other businesswomen they were ineligible for funding because of their Asian descent. To PayPal and its executives, Asian Americans might be minorities, but theyre the wrong kind of minority, according to the complaint in Manhattan federal court. PayPal declined to comment, saying it does not discuss pending litigation. Desai accused PayPal of violating Section 1981 of the Civil Rights Act of 1866, which bars racial bias in contracting; Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which bars federal funds recipients from allowing racial discrimination, and New York state and city human rights laws. She is seeking unspecified damages and to ban PayPal from considering race and ethnicity in its investment program. Desai sued after the federal appeals court in Manhattan said last March that the advocacy group Do No Harm lacked standing to pursue a similar case against drugmaker Pfizer over a fellowship program for Blacks, Hispanics and Native Americans, because it did not identify a member who was harmed. Desai is represented by Consovoy McCarthy, which represented Do No Harm and often advocates for conservative causes. The law firm did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The case is Andav Capital et al v PayPal Holdings Inc et al, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, No. 25-00033. (Reporting by Stempel in New York; Editing by Matthew Lewis) Boeing Co. and U.S. prosecutors said theyre working to hammer out a new deal to settle a criminal case stemming from two fatal 737 Max crashes after a federal judge blocked an earlier plan because it included race as a consideration for selecting a compliance monitor. The Justice Department is working with Boeing to include revisions to the proposed plea agreement that would address the reasons the Court rejected it, lawyers for the agencys fraud section and the company told the judge Friday in a filing. Last month, US District Judge Reed OConnor rejected a previous plan because it called for an independent monitor to be selected in accordance with the departments diversity and inclusion criteria. He also said the plan would diminish his role in ensuring Boeings compliance with the deal. The parties have not reached agreement and do not expect to before January 4th, but are continuing to work in good faith toward that end, the Justice Department wrote in a separate letter to the families of crash victims that was reviewed by Bloomberg News. The Justice Department and Boeing declined to comment on the letter sent to the families. The Justice Department met with some family members of the 346 people killed in the crashes after the judges ruling in December, according to the letter. The relatives have said they urged the government to seek a more aggressive deal to hold Boeing to account for the deaths, or to consider taking the case to trial. In its letter, the department stressed that theres no guarantee a revised deal will be reached. Family members of crash victims have fought for years to get harsher penalties following the crashes of Lion Air Flight 610 in October 2018 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 in March 2019. Both fatal accidents were linked to a flawed flight control system. In 2021, Boeing reached an agreement with the Justice Department to defer prosecution on charges that it deceived regulators about the system. In May, the government said the company violated that agreement and recommended criminal charges, citing Boeings failure to live up to its promises. Boeing and the department finalized the first proposed plea deal based on those charges in July. The department asked the judge for permission to provide an update on the status of the latest negotiations in mid-February, noting that the parties might need more time to resolve the agreement due to expected federal leadership changes under the incoming Trump administration. The case is US v. Boeing, 21-cr-005, US District Court, Northern District of Texas (Fort Worth). Top photo: A Boeing 737 MAX airliner takes off from Renton Municipal Airport in Renton, Washington. Photographer: Ellen Banner/Getty Images. Copyright 2025 Bloomberg. A doctor fills a syringe with the COVID-19 vaccine at the Augusta Armory, Dec. 21, 2021, in Augusta, Maine. Robert F. Bukaty/AP The claim:In picking Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, President-elect Donald Trump is elevating a small but growing segment of the population that distrusts vaccines and spreads or follows misinformation about them. Asked on WISN Upfront Nov. 17, 2024, about his praise for Kennedy and false claims about vaccines causing autism, Johnson said he wants to look at "uncorrupted" science when determining vaccine safety and that people "need to have the courage to ask what is causing this explosion" in autism and chronic illness. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In fact, Johnson said, "Theres never been a placebo-controlled study on childhood vaccines. Not one." PolitiFact ruling: False. Medical experts say the evidence Johnson's office provided takes a narrow view of what a placebo is. But even by that definition, there have been studies of childhood vaccines that were placebo-controlled. Discussion Asked for evidence of his claim, a spokesperson for Johnson sent a tweet from Aaron Siri, an attorney advising Kennedy. Siri shared a chart from the vaccine-skeptical group Informed Consent Action Network showing 17 vaccines that they allege were not licensed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration "based on a long-term placebo-controlled trial," including vaccines for whooping cough; measles, mumps and rubella; HPV; COVID-19 and influenza. Johnsons office also shared an interview Kennedy did on The Joe Rogan Experience in which he recalled an exchange with Dr. Anthony Fauci, former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Kennedy claimed he asked Fauci to present him with evidence that vaccines recommended for Americans had been tested in a placebo-controlled study, and that Fauci could not. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Placebo-controlled trials are considered the gold standard for testing the safety and efficacy of a new vaccine, according to experts from the World Health Organization. The placebo exists to mimic the experience of getting the vaccine so the people receiving it dont know which group theyre in. Some groups that are skeptical of vaccine safety take issue with the definition of a placebo. Dr. Paul Offit, a physician and director of the Vaccine Education Center at Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, wrote July 1, 2023, on Substack that the Informed Consent Action Network argues that the only true placebos are water and saltwater, "which isnt true." "Indeed, a wide range of placebos have been used in vaccine trials," Offit wrote. "These placebos might contain buffers, stabilizing agents, emulsifying agents, or adjuvants, like aluminum salts. They might contain sodium citrate, sodium phosphate, sucrose or polysorbate-80 all meet the FDA criteria for a placebo." Still, even using that narrower definition of a placebo that its a simple saltwater solution Johnson is wrong. Here are a selection of childhood vaccines that went through placebo-controlled trials where the placebo used was a saline solution: Advertisement Article continues below this ad A rotavirus vaccine tested in South African infants and toddlers, as well as adults, between 2016 and 2017 Four live measles vaccines tested in Israeli children in the 1960s A human papillomavirus vaccine tested in adolescent boys and girls between 2003 and 2004 in 10 countries across North America, Latin America, Europe and Asia Where else might these claims come from that vaccines havent undergone a placebo-controlled trial? In some situations, the "comparator group" may receive a previously approved vaccine that targets the same disease to determine whether a new vaccine performs better (or performs the same, and is cheaper to make). If a vaccine against a disease already exists and is working, its unethical to deprive children of it just to conduct a study, said Dr. William Moss, executive director of the International Vaccine Access Center at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health said. Doing so would put them unknowingly at risk of contracting and getting sick from that disease. In those cases, Moss said, the vaccine given to the comparator group would be a licensed and approved vaccine that "would have gone through all the hurdles it takes to get to that." Advertisement Article continues below this ad Johnsons claim didnt get into these details. He simply said there has been "not one" placebo-controlled study on childhood vaccines. And hes wrong on that. En espanol Dr. Laura Salazar, a 26-year-old medical influencer and the new partner of Romina Marcos, daughter of Niurka Marcos, is making headlines. With over five million social media followers, Salazar has become a digital sensation. Born on April 5, 1998, Laura rose to fame on TikTok for her candid discussions about female sexuality. Her videos on pleasure and eroticism propelled her to online stardom. However, her journey hasn't been without controversy. Recently, she clashed with fellow medical influencer Mr. Doctor, who questioned her professional credentials. Mr. Doctor claimed that Laura lacked official certifications in gynecology or sexology, sparking a social media storm where followers began doubting her expertise. Laura quickly responded in a video, saying, "This person is claiming I don't have credentials, but don't worry, I graduated at the top of my class." She defended her academic background and clarified that she is currently pursuing a master's degree in sexology. She emphasized her mission is to educate and empower rather than flaunt achievements. "I don't need to brag about my accomplishments. My only goal is to help others embrace their sexuality and pleasure. I adore you allkeep loving your bodies!" Laura is constantly making headlines Salazar's name returned to the spotlight after confirming her relationship with Romina Marcos, daughter of famed vedette Niurka. Romina, 29, revealed on the podcast 'Deko en Vivo' that Laura is her first girlfriend. "It's amazing, go ahead and 'lesbianize' yourself," she joked, describing the relationship as an exciting new chapter. "We're intense but living it our way. I manifested my woman, and I'll tell you who she isit's Dr. Laura Salazar," said Romina, a former contestant on the reality show 'Los 50.' The couple has been together for just a month, but they've already shared photos on social media. Even Niurka Marcos appears supportive, smiling alongside them in pictures. Laura is now in the public eye not only as a sexuality educator but also as Niurka's "daughter-in-law." Despite the controversies, Salazar remains focused on her mission to educate about sexuality. She continues to share content aimed at empowering her audience and promoting sexual health awareness. watch now Here are the most important news items that investors need to start their trading day: 1. Looking for a rebound Traders work on the floor at the New York Stock Exchange on Dec. 10, 2024. Brendan McDermid | Reuters U.S. stock futures ticked higher Monday after a losing week for the major averages. Trading will be shortened again this week, as markets will be closed Thursday to mourn the death of former President Jimmy Carter. Investors will be watching December jobs data due Friday for signs of the U.S. economy's strength. Earnings from Constellation Brands , Walgreens Boots Alliance and Delta Air Lines will also help to shape stocks this week. Follow live market updates. 2. Chip craze continues Global semiconductor stocks climbed Monday in response to strong quarterly results from Foxconn. Hon Hai Precision Industry, which does business as Foxconn around the world, said its revenue climbed 15% year over year, signaling the enthusiasm around AI is not abating. In the U.S., shares of chipmakers including Nvidia , AMD and Broadcom rose in premarket trading. 3. Winter weather warning A winter storm hit the U.S. starting early Monday, with much of the country set to see snow, ice and falling temperatures. The National Weather Service put out winter storm warnings from Kansas in the Midwest as far east as New Jersey. School districts around the country were canceling or delaying classes, while airlines started to cancel some flights. Snow stranded motorists in some parts of the country. 4. Strengthening Social Security U.S. President Joe Biden delivers remarks on the economy at the Brookings Institution in Washington, DC, U.S. December 10, 2024. Kevin Lamarque | Reuters Millions of Americans are about to see a boost to their Social Security benefits. President Joe Biden on Sunday signed bipartisan legislation that will allow beneficiaries who also get pension income to receive increases to their Social Security payouts. More than 2.5 million people will receive a lump sum payment to make up for a benefits shortfall in 2024, Biden said. 5. Biden's drilling ban Platforms B and C, offshore oil and gas platforms operated by DCOR, LLC, in the Dos Cuadras Field off the coast of Santa Barbara, California, US, on Monday, Jan. 15, 2024. The White House announced Monday that President Joe Biden would ban new offshore oil and gas drilling along most of the U.S. coastline. The order will protect some 625 million acres of ocean along America's Atlantic and Pacific coasts, the Gulf of Mexico and Alaska's Bering Sea from "environmental and economic risks and harms," the White House said in a statement announcing the move. It is also an attempt to protect Biden's climate legacy from the energy policy set to be pursued by Republicans and President-elect Donald Trump's energy policy. Biden will use an obscure provision of the 1953 Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA), which gives the president the power to indefinitely withdraw unleased lands from the outer continental shelf. While former President Barack Obama used the act in 2016 to protect 119 million acres of land, Monday's move is much larger and will be viewed as a significant victory for environmental groups that have long argued further drilling is contradictory to the U.S. government's stated goal of slashing emissions that lead to climate change. Last year was the hottest in recorded history. "Drilling off these coasts could cause irreversible damage to places we hold dear and is unnecessary to meet our nation's energy needs. It is not worth the risks," Biden said in a statement. "As the climate crisis continues to threaten communities across the country and we are transitioning to a clean energy economy, now is the time to protect these coasts for our children and grandchildren," he added. Biden's decision takes the total area of ocean he has protected to 670 million acres higher than any other president and could frustrate Trump's plans to gain an economic boost from doubling down on the increased oil and gas production he oversaw in his first administration. During his first administration, Trump used an executive order in an attempt to overturn Obama's decision to invoke OCSLA during the final month of his presidency, but that decision was struck down in the courts. That means it may take an act of Congress to reverse Monday's announcement by the Biden administration. The week after he won the 2024 presidential election, Trump named Liberty Energy CEO Chris Wright as his pick to lead the Department of Energy. Wright has previously written on the need for more fossil fuel production to lift people out of poverty, and in a video posted to his LinkedIn profile in 2023, said that "there is no climate crisis, and we're not in the midst of an energy transition, either." While many of the protected areas have not tended to draw much interest from the energy industry, the Biden administration also said the ban would cover the entire eastern U.S. Atlantic coast and the eastern Gulf of Mexico. Both areas have been of interest to oil companies, although Trump himself moved to prevent drilling in those areas during his first administration. Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau attends a news conference to announce that the Emergencies Act is being revoked after Canadian police evicted the last of the trucks and supporters occupying the downtown core in a protest against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine mandates, in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, February 23, 2022. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is increasingly likely to announce he intends to step down, though he has not made a final decision, a source familiar with Trudeau's thinking said on Sunday. The source spoke to Reuters after the Globe and Mail reported that Trudeau was expected to announce as early as Monday that he would quit as leader of Canada's ruling Liberal Party after nine years in office. The source requested anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly. Trudeau will speak at 10:45 a.m. ET (1545 GMT) at Rideau Cottage, a news release from the Prime Minister's Office said. Canadian stocks appeared primed for a bounce following the news. The iShares MSCI Canada ETF (EWC) traded 1.8% higher in U.S. premarket trading. The Canadian dollar also popped nearly 1% to 1.4313 against the greenback. Trudeau's departure would leave the party without a permanent head at a time when polls show the Liberals will badly lose to the official opposition Conservatives in an election that must be held by late October. Sources told the Globe and Mail that they did not know definitely when Trudeau would announce his plans to leave but said they expect it would happen before a emergency meeting of Liberal legislators on Wednesday. An increasing number of Liberal parliamentarians, alarmed by a series of gloomy polls, have publicly urged Trudeau to quit. The prime minister's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment outside regular business hours. The prime minister's regularly published schedule for Monday said he would participate virtually in a cabinet committee meeting on Canada-U.S. relations. It remains unclear whether Trudeau will leave immediately or stay on as prime minister until a new Liberal leader is selected, the Globe and Mail report added. The heyday of Chrysler appears long gone. A series of mergers has turned the once-ubiquitous Chrysler Corporation into a piece of the larger Euro-American automaker Stellantis . Once a relatively diversified brand, with sedans, SUVs and even a convertible, Chrysler now has only two models, both of them different versions of the same minivan. The Chrysler brand sold nearly 600,000 vehicles in 2005. In 2024, it sold fewer than 125,000 an 80% decline in two decades. "Chrysler as a brand has been very, very, underinvested in for many, many years now," said Ed Kim, president and chief analyst of AutoPacific, an automotive marketing research and product-consulting firm. In July 2024, Stellantis said it would consider killing brands that weren't making money. That alarmed Frank Rhodes Jr., a descendant of Walter P. Chrysler, who founded the company in 1925. "The CEO said that they were going to possibly sell off some brands that weren't performing," Rhodes said. "And I'd heard that before and I just said, 'I've had enough.'" In August, Rhodes proposed putting together an investor group to purchase the Chrysler and Dodge brands from Stellantis. But the company said none of its brands are for sale. "I think he was planting a seed or making a suggestion that if the intention was to not invest in Chrysler or Dodge going forward, that perhaps another path could be an investor group purchasing the brands from Stellantis and making sure that they live on for the future," said Chrysler brand CEO Christine Feuell. "But I can assure you that both brands have a really bright future in the Stellantis portfolio." It's not the first time there have been rumors of Chrysler's demise. Reports the brand is on the chopping block have surfaced many times before. "Chrysler brand is here to stay," Feuell said. "It is being well invested in. The brand is not on the table for elimination, and it has a very bright future." This future includes a new version of its minivan, which as of January 2025 was its only vehicle, sold under two names. The Voyager is the lower-priced model, and the Pacifica is a more premium option. A refreshed Pacifica is slated for 2026, with a new exterior design and new powertrain options. Chrysler is also planning to release a large SUV and a coupe or sedan based on the Halcyon concept it unveiled in 2024. It can't come soon enough for fans of the brand, including Rhodes. "I know there's people out there that want to bring this brand, these brands back, and they need to be saved," he said. "It's part of our American heritage." Watch the video to learn more. Comcast plans to launch a new advertising platform that will make it easier for smaller businesses to buy ad time and, the company hopes, to beckon some advertisers away from social media and digital outlets and over to traditional TV's streaming businesses. On Monday, Comcast announced the creation of Universal Ads, a new platform for advertisers to buy spots on premium video content on the streaming businesses of traditional media companies. The announcement comes ahead of the annual CES tech conference in Las Vegas. Comcast has signed partnerships with other media companies, giving advertisers the ability to buy spots on a variety of outlets. So far, Comcast-owned NBCUniversal and ad-supported streamer Xumo are part of the platform, as well as A+E, AMC Networks , DirecTV, Fox Corp ., Paramount, Roku , TelevisaUnivision and Warner Bros. Discovery . Others are expected to join in the coming months. "Universal Ads is intended to create new demand from advertisers who have not traditionally worked with us," said Mark Marshall, chairman of global advertising and partnerships for NBCUniversal, CNBC's parent company. "And while we're starting with streaming and [small- and medium-sized businesses], in a future state this can be for linear and for agencies as well." Universal Ads, which will launch in the first quarter, is meant to create an easier experience for advertisers of all shapes and sizes to buy up ad time, which can be a notoriously complicated process in comparison to purchasing ads for platforms such as Meta, YouTube and TikTok, said James Rooke, president of Comcast Advertising. It's designed to mimic the process of buying ads on social media content and tech platforms. "The head scratcher is that there's a sort of large number of advertisers who've built their businesses, or started to build their businesses, on the backs of social video," said Rooke. "Yet when you talk to these advertisers there's an increasing wish to diversify away from a very limited number of big technology companies." Rooke said the challenge has been that these big tech companies "make it super simple to transact on their platforms," whereas traditional media, or so-called premium content, does not. Marshall said he and Rooke had been in discussions over the last several months on how to "create new demand opportunities" for the nontraditional advertisers. Comcast built the free, self-service platform using its ad tech company FreeWheel. Many of the partners that have already signed on are FreeWheel clients. There are also plans to offer free, automated artificial intelligence tools to help produce the ads, which can be another pain point for smaller companies. "Universal Ads has a tremendous opportunity to steal market share from our competitors in a very unique and collaborative way that will fundamentally change the advertising landscape," said Marshall. watch now Congress certified President-elect Donald Trump's victory over Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 election on Monday, four years to the day after Trump's supporters rioted inside the U.S. Capitol to protest his defeat in the 2020 election. Harris, who accepted her loss on the day after the Nov. 5 election, presided over the joint session of the House and Senate. She maintained a neutral expression as her announcement of the final tally of Electoral College votes 312 for Trump, 226 for Harris drew cheers from Republicans in the House chamber. The roughly 30-minute event to confirm Trump's return to power unfolded as a tidy, solemn ceremony, once again resembling its traditional role as an uncontroversial formality in the presidential transition process. But the echoes of the deadly riot still reverberate through Capitol Hill, as Democrats and Republicans continue to scuffle over which history of Jan. 6, 2021, will endure. "I do believe very strongly that America's democracy is only as strong as our willingness to fight for it," Harris told reporters after the election was certified. "Today, America's democracy stood," she said. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., set the tone in remarks on the floor of his chamber earlier Monday, calling the Capitol riot "one of the most shameful, reprehensible episodes in the history of this great nation." U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris reacts as she uses the gavel next to Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) during a joint session of Congress to certify Donald Trump's election, at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, U.S. January 6, 2025. R Evelyn Hockstein | Reuters He warned of the dangers of "election denialism" and decried those trying to "whitewash" the events of the riot, while scorning Trump's possible pardons for those who participated in it. After the 2020 election, Trump falsely denied President Joe Biden's victory and urged then-Vice President Mike Pence, who presided over the certification, to reject electoral votes as Congress met on Jan. 6, 2021. Harris, who presided over Monday's proceedings, has not challenged the election outcome or spread false conspiracy theories to undermine confidence in the results, as Trump did. Nor have Harris and her allies pursued a flurry of legal actions to try to overturn the election outcome, as Trump and his allies did. Democrats also did not raise objections to the electoral results during the certification proceedings Monday, as some Republican senators and a majority of GOP House members did in 2021. Harris, in a recorded video obtained first by NBC News, said her role is a "sacred obligation" and that she is "guided by love of country, loyalty to our Constitution and my unwavering faith in the American people." But while the process may be reverting to its pre-riot roots, the scars left from 2021 can still be seen. The Capitol complex was under heavy security as lawmakers met to certify the election. The Homeland Security Department in September designated Monday's vote a "National Special Security Event," its first such designation for an electoral vote certification, prompting law enforcement at all levels to enact a comprehensive security plan around the Capitol. A giant thresher shark washed up on a beach in Cornwall, has sparked outrage and concern over the safety of endangered species. The 11-foot-long shark, found on Par Sands Beach near St. Austell on New Year's Day, has fueled speculation that the animal may have been killed by fishing activities. It is the second thresher shark to be found dead on the southwestern coast in recent weeks, with another discovered in Devon just days earlier. Endangered Thresher Shark Death Linked to Fishing Practices Thresher sharks, known for their long, whip-like tails that can be as long as their bodies, are listed as vulnerable by the World Conservation Union, DailyMail reported. They are typically found in deep waters, but can occasionally be spotted in U.K. coastal waters during the summer. Despite their impressive hunting skills, which include using their tails to herd and stun fish, thresher sharks are at risk due to human activities. Experts from Cornwall Wildlife Trust's Marine Strandings Network quickly responded to the discovery. Their initial assessments suggest that the shark may have suffered significant trauma caused by fishing lines, possibly from sport fishing. This type of fishing is known to pose a serious threat to ocean wildlife, with bycatch the capture of non-target species a major concern for marine life. Cornwall Wildlife Trust Calls for Safer Fishing Practices After Thresher Shark Death The Cornwall Wildlife Trust emphasized the importance of safe fishing practices to avoid harming marine animals, especially endangered species like the thresher shark. Volunteers from the community helped move the shark off the beach and ensured that the area was kept safe from curious onlookers. This tragic incident has triggered strong reactions from wildlife advocates. Many have expressed anger over the possible role of fishing in the shark's death. According to DailyStar, one community member criticized the practice of sport fishing, calling it "animal abuse." In contrast, others pointed out the hypocrisy of banning plastic straws to protect marine life, yet allowing fishing practices that harm vulnerable species. While the post-mortem results are still pending, the Cornwall Wildlife Trust continues to investigate the circumstances of the shark's death. They are also working to raise awareness about the need for responsible fishing practices to prevent further harm to marine animals. The death of this thresher shark and the recent findings in Devon highlight the ongoing threats facing marine wildlife due to human activities. The public outcry is fueling calls for stricter regulations on fishing, with hopes that these measures will protect endangered species from further harm. Despite spending decades as one of the biggest stars in Hollywood, Demi Moore was the last person expecting to see herself on stage accepting a Golden Globe. The 62-year-old, who made her TV debut in 1978 and starred in her first film in 1981, was taken aback when her name was called Sunday night. "I really wasn't expecting that," she said after stepping up to the microphone. "I'm just in shock right now." "I've been doing this a long time over 45 years," she said in her speech. "This is the first time I've ever won anything as an actor. I'm just so humbled and so grateful." For Moore, whose career includes films like "Margin Call," "Striptease" and "Charlie's Angels," the idea of ever winning a major acting award seemed far fetched. She said that 30 years ago, a producer told her she was "a popcorn actress." "At the time, I made that mean that this [award] wasn't something that I was allowed to have, that I could do movies that were successful and made a lot of money but that I couldn't be acknowledged," she said. Moore said that she "bought in, and I believed that," and that thinking of herself as that type of performer "corroded" her belief in herself as an artist. As she aged, she thought that her time on the big screen might be coming to an end and she had "done what I was supposed to do." "As I was at kind of a low point I had this magical, gold, courageous, out-of-the-box, absolutely bonkers script come across my desk called 'The Substance,' and the universe told me 'you are not done,'" she said. Moore plays Elisabeth Sparkle in the body horror film, a celebrity who is fired from her job because of her age and goes to extreme lengths to recapture her youth. The film has received rave reviews, with Moore in particular being praised for her performance. "I celebrate this as a marker of my wholeness and of the love that is driving me," she said. "And for the gift of doing something I love and being reminded that I do belong." Moore wasn't the only actress in the building to once be told that they wouldn't make it. Nicole Kidman, who was nominated for her performance in "Babygirl," last year said that her height made it challenging to break into acting. "I was told 'You won't have a career, you're too tall,'" the 5' 11" actress said at the time. "I remember auditioning for 'Annie'. I had to talk my way through the door because they were measuring you before you went in. I was mortified, I was over the mark." Finding success after dealing with so much rejection helped her develop a level of resilience that she described as being her "superpower." "I tell my daughters 'None of it matters. What does matter is how you allow other people to either say yes or no to you and whether you accept that,'" she said. "That inner resilience as a human being, that's the superpower really, above all superpowers." Want to make extra money outside of your day job? Sign up for CNBC's online course How to Earn Passive Income Online to learn about common passive income streams, tips to get started and real-life success stories. Plus, sign up for CNBC Make It's newsletter to get tips and tricks for success at work, with money and in life. Tesla CEO Elon Musk, Co-Chair of the newly announced Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), arrives on Capitol Hill on December 05, 2024 in Washington, DC. Elon Musk has questioned whether the United States should "liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government" after hitting out at top U.K. lawmakers. In recent days, the tech billionaire and key advisor to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has taken to social media to air his grievances with the British government, resulting in a war of words between the Tesla boss and a U.K. government official. In a series of posts on the X social media platform which Musk owns the tech tycoon hit out at the U.K.'s Labour government, criticizing its handling of historic child abuse scandals. Musk accused the U.K. Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips of being a "rape genocide apologist" on Friday, before publishing a series of posts calling for Prime Minister Keir Starmer to be ousted and face jail time over how child grooming gangs and other criminals who targeted children have been prosecuted. His criticisms of the U.K. government over the weekend culminated in a poll, where he posed the concept of "liberating the people of Britain" to the platform's users. Musk's comments came after Phillips rejected calls for a government-led inquiry into child sexual exploitation in the town of Oldham. Before embarking on a political career, Starmer served as the U.K.'s director of public prosecutions, running the Crown Prosecution Service during the country's child rape gangs scandal. Phillips worked for Women's Aid, a charity that assists women who are victims of domestic violence, before taking on a role in politics. A spokesperson for Phillips was not immediately available for comment when contacted by CNBC. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump meets with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, U.S. January 4, 2025. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni made a surprise visit to Mar-a-Lago on Sunday, meeting incoming President Donald Trump for the second time since he won the U.S. election in November. During the meeting in Florida, Trump described Meloni as a "fantastic woman she's really taken Europe by storm" in a briefing with reporters. Meloni, meanwhile, posted on X that she'd had a "nice evening" with Trump, adding that she was "ready to work together," according to a Google translation of her post. She had previously spoken with the president-elect on the sidelines of the reopening of Notre Dame cathedral in Paris in early December. The mutual admiration means Meloni is well-placed to position herself as Trump's key ally in Europe. Her trans-Atlantic efforts come at a complicated time for other European heavyweights Germany and France, whose leaders are struggling with domestic political challenges and have both faced criticism from Trump. Meloni has a number of reasons to court the incoming administration, not least Trump's tariff threat to Europe. During his recent election campaign, the former president threatened to impose a 10% tariff on all goods imported to the U.S. the European Union's largest trading partner in terms of exports. The outlook for equity markets this year looks uncertain, with one market strategist describing the new year as "stepping into a house of cards." "The stock market may fluctuate in 2025, but significant opportunities will arise for those focused on individual stock picks," Michele Schneider, chief market strategist at Marketgauge.com, noted. "The sell-off in December could impact near-term sentiment, but patience may be key to capitalizing on opportunities when the market resets in January," she added in an outlook note. From beauty labels to electric vehicle companies, here are four stocks Schneider expects to beat the market this year. Ulta Beauty Among Schneider's top picks is Ulta Beauty , a U.S. retailer specializing in beauty and cosmetics products. The company operates an e-commerce platform and has over 1,000 stores across the U.S., making it one of the largest beauty retailers in the country, the strategist said. She also likes its AI-powered features such as its recently launched Ulta Beauty Virtual Artist, which enables consumers to try on makeup virtually. Shares in Ulta Beauty have lost around 9.4% over the last 12 months. According to FactSet data, analysts' average price target on the stock is $429.16, which implies 3.6% upside. AbbVie Elsewhere in the beauty and healthcare space, Schneider is betting on pharmaceutical giant AbbVie , which works across aesthetics, immunology, oncology and neuroscience. The strategist is particularly keen on its aesthetics division, given that it owns Botox-maker, Allergan. "Botox is one of the most well-known and widely used aesthetic treatments globally, primarily known for its cosmetic use in reducing wrinkles and fine lines," she explained, meaning it fits into the "vanity trade." Shares in AbbVie are up around 11.8% over the last 12 months. Just over 60% of analysts covering the stock give it a buy or overweight rating, according to FactSet data. Their average price target of $179.44 gives it upside potential of 13.7%. Rivian Automotive In the closely watched electric vehicle space, Schneider is betting on Rivian Automotive . The company is known for its R1T pickup truck and R1S SUV and is now looking to "disrupt the automotive industry with sustainable, high-performance vehicles," the strategist noted. She also observed that it's "ramping up production at its manufacturing facility in Normal, Illinois, to meet growing demand." After a tough 2024, shares in Rivian have fallen nearly 35% over the last 12 months. Analysts are divided on the stock, with just 39% of them giving it a buy or overweight rating. Their average price target is $14.83, according to FactSet data, giving it potential upside of 11.9%. Chewy Inc Schneider also identified online retailer Chewy as a stock to watch this year. The company operates one of the largest e-commerce platforms for pet products such as food, toys and medications. It's "known for its customer service," the strategist said, and is now expanding its suite of offerings to include prescription medications and pet insurance. She also likes that it is looking to improve the customer experience on its platform through the use of AI and machine learning. Shares in Chewy are up over 60% in the last 12 months. Some 55% of analysts give it a buy or overweight rating, according to FactSet data. Their average price target of $36.57 gives it 8% upside potential. Authorities in Virginia have arrested a 26-year-old hospital worker after three babies in the neonatal intensive care unit suffered from "unexplainable fractures." Police charged Erin Elizabeth Ann Strotman of Chesterfield County with malicious wounding and felony child abuse in connection with the incident. At the time, she was employed at Henrico Doctors' Hospital. If found guilty, the 26-year-old registered nurse will face a maximum of 10 years in prison for child neglect and 20 years for malicious wounding, per The New York Times, citing court records and Henrico County's commonwealth attorney Shannon Taylor. What Happened at the NICU? In 2023, the hospital began noticing that four of the newborn babies in its care were suffering unexplained injuries. They later saw similar unexplained fractures in three babies in the NICU in November 2024. The injuries prompted the hospital to conduct internal investigations, leading to Strotman's arrest. Not much is known about the nurse's role in the injuries. Neither Henrico Doctors' Hospital nor the police have released details about the incident. However, it was reported that authorities are currently combing through hundreds of hours of surveillance footage from the hospital to determine what exactly happened to the seven babies. Additionally, the hospital announced that its NICU caregivers will be undergoing increased safety training as well as a new program that would help them identify and report child abuse or neglect. The hospital also said it will provide additional head-to-toe examinations for all NICU babies. Furthermore, Henrico Doctors' said it would install two new security systems that would allow the parents of NICU babies to watch their child in real-time, per the Washington Post. The hospital is currently not accepting new babies into the NICU while the incidents are still under investigation. Where Is Strotman Now? Strotman is currently being held without bond in Henrico County Regional Jail West. She is scheduled to appear in court on March 24. Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada Zip Code There was a time, not very long ago, when conservative comedy was generally dismissed. Conceptually, commentators would say, its a contradiction in terms, in that the purpose of comedy is to challenge systems of powers that conservatives, definitionally, seek to preserve. In practice, they only have one joke, and its not funny. But in a political climate in which hard-right voices are dominant, ABC evidently doesnt need to be known as the network that summarily fired Roseanne from her namesake sitcom for one racist tweet too many; now its the network getting back in the Tim Allen business after cancelling his last show in 2017, and despite his many backward views and unprofessional on-set behavior. His new multi-cam sitcom, Shifting Gears, is too witless to get mad about, but its striking how much effort and talent it wastes trying to counter-balance a 21st-century Tim Allen character. Shifting Gears, which premieres January 8th, stars Allen as Matt Parker. Though the pilot cold open gives the impression that its going to be a workplace comedy set at the classic car restoration business Matt owns, and the staffers who work there sweet simpleton Gabriel (Seann William Scott), sardonic Ed (Daryl Mitchell); queer Frankie (Cynthia Quiles) doesnt get a line until Episode Two soon a classic GTO screams in. Matt hasnt seen this car since someone stole it from him 15 years ago, and moments later the culprit shows herself: Its his estranged daughter Riley (Kat Dennings), and shes returned to her hometown with her two children because shes divorcing their father and has nowhere else to go. This is going to be hard on both Riley and Matt, because theyve always had a tense relationship, and while Matts wife Diane used to be the bridge between father and daughter, she recently died. The show was co-created by husband-and-wife team Mike Scully and Julie Thacker Scully, whose most recent co-production was Foxs animated series Duncanville; showrunner Michelle Nader has previously worked with Dennings on 2 Broke Girls and Dollface. 2 Broke Girls wasnt for me, but it was obviously an excellent training ground for Dennings. As multi-cams die off, multi-cam acting skills are broadly going extinct, but Dennings is better than most actors exhibiting comic timing when a live audience is present affecting the flow of a scene. Riley isnt a huge stretch from Max, her 2 Broke Girls character, but she does come to us with a lot of pathos. She originally left home and college because shed become unexpectedly pregnant by Jimmy, an itinerant bass player. Now Riley has two children and an online BA but since Jimmy proved to be the wrong partner for her, she has no idea what shes going to do for work for the rest of her life, other than that she doesnt want to be a lawyer (possibly because thats always been Matts dream for her). Navigating this transition while living with her judgmental father obviously provides a lot of opportunities for Riley and Matt to jokingly snipe at each other, but Dennings finds the truth in her characters shame and fear. In short, shes better than she needs to be. Advertisement Don't Miss This is also true of Scott, whos been reliable as a lovable idiot since Dude, Wheres My Car? and beyond. Gabriel was best friends with Rileys as-yet-unseen brother when they were all in high school, and he didnt approve of Jimmy either, so given the economy of sitcom characters, it seems likely that if the show lasts, Gabriel and Riley will end up in some kind of romance. Mitchell doesnt get much to do in the first couple of episodes other than spar with Matt about the correct terminology he should use regarding Ed (who uses a wheelchair) and reparations for slavery (not that the term slavery comes up), but his comic chops and charm are as evident here as they were back when he was in the supporting cast of (confusingly) Ed, the NBC dramedy with Tom Cavanagh. I cant comment on Quiles as Frankie, since she only appears in the background of the first episode and shows up just long enough in the second to establish that she sleeps with women. Perhaps later episodes will tell us why Frankie and Ed choose to work for Matt; since we do find out in the second episode that Gabriel thinks hes underpaid, it seems unlikely that the Black man and Latinx woman are doing their jobs for the money. Advertisement There are also the kids: a teen boy named Carter, played by Maxwell Simkins, and a pre-tween girl named Georgia, played by Barrett Margolis. They are neither so amateurish that they make the viewer feel uncomfortable, nor precocious enough to rankle, so when I say theyre both unremarkable, I actually mean it as a compliment. Advertisement Advertisement Alas, any effort the supporting cast puts into creating three-dimensional characters is for naught when Matt is a living cartoon. After Ed and Gabriel note that Matt hasnt gone off on his usual rant yet, Matt makes his entrance, coming out of his office to say he can hear them. Ed snorts, Let me guess: the worlds going to hell in a handbasket. We dont even make handbaskets in the U.S. anymore, Matt sneers. You know what we do make? Excuses, quitters and diabetes. And celebrities who use diabetes medicine to lose weight. You want to lose weight? Its simple. This hole here (points at his mouth) bigger than this one back here (points at his butt). Do I even need to add that he pronounces the disease diabete-iss? If so: he does. Im sure the Tim Allen fans who watched him headline Last Man Standing for nine seasons arent here to see him play someone pleasant or reasonable, but making his second and third lines of this whole show so aggressive is a pointed statement of intent: If you keep watching, you cant pretend you didnt know what you were going to get. Even when storylines dramatize how Matts ideas about the world are wrong and outdated when he goads Carter into driving without a license, or when he harangues Riley out of letting Carter use academic accommodations for his anxiety the show would have no premise if he hadnt been right about Riley and Jimmy, a victory he keeps smugly holding over her head. And any credit he might fairly claim for taking in Riley and her children despite the friction between Riley and Matt is cancelled out by his frequent reminders of how dependent she now is on him, giving a nasty overtone to most of their interactions. Advertisement Basically, this is a show that lives down to your expectations for a Tim Allen sitcom in the post-Trump era. There are jokes about mocktails, pronouns, pickleball, lazy public employees, whos allowed to use the word dwarf, hate-watching the news to form ones own angry opinions, Nancy Pelosi and rideshares (Jesus didnt Uber: he takes the wheel). This also means that if you dont agree with Tim Allens views across the board, Shifting Gears has nothing to offer you. Enjoy reclaiming your time. Its a testament to how great of an SNL host Christopher Walken is that More Cowbell! and The Continental are really just scratching the surface in terms of his most memorable sketches. Case in point: Centaur Job Interview, a bit in which he plays a hospital administrator interviewing candidates for a new job and among the applicants is Chris Parnell as a centaur. While Parnell masterfully played it straight as a guy who wants a job and who just happens to be centaur Walken pelted him with a barrage of embarrassing questions about his mythical physique. Questions like, Can I ride you?, Could you enter yourself in the Kentucky Derby? and Do you have sex with horses or human women? Will Ferrell and Adam McKay wrote the sketch, Parnell tells me. But rather than playing the centaur part himself, Will thought it should be me. Don't Miss Parnell says the sketch came to him fully formed and that he merely had to figure out the right way to approach the material, which was to take it seriously like a normal job interview. I had to answer these weird questions from Walken as though they werent that weird. Of course those would be the questions a centaur would be asked in a job interview from a human. I dont think I ever once made eye contact with Walken because he was just looking at the cards, Parnell continues. No harm there, I dont blame him it was a lot of words, especially for him but I always tried to memorize all my lines and look right at the person. Im sure he glanced at me, but he was mostly glued to the cards. Regardless, the sketch was a big success. Or as Parnell puts it, Its such a funny piece and so well written. Thats the reason why it continues to live on that and because it was Christopher Walken. Canadian comics Seth Rogen and Catherine OHara may not have a bunch of Golden Globes under their belts, but that doesnt mean their trophy cases are bare. As Golden Globe presenters, the comic performers riffed on their past successes on Canadian awards shows, recognition that OHara lamented always gets her stopped at the border. For example, Rogen explained that OHara won two Golden Antler Awards for her role as Mama Morissette in The Alanis Morissette Story. OHara returned the compliment, applauding Rogen for his work (and Golden Antler win) as a young Ryan Gosling in The Ryan Gosling Unauthorized Biopic. Don't Miss OHara scored a Gilded Gretzky Award for her turn in An Otters Tale, the story of a woman who rescued an otter cub and nursed it back to health with her own breast milk. It wasnt easy, said OHara I lost half a nipple. Risque, but the two were just getting started. Their award-winning success led to very hard, R-rated comedies like Pipeline Polly. Rogen noted that Canada doesnt have America's puritanical roots, so films like Pipeline Polly and even adult movies are as lauded as non-pornographic films. I did a lot of Canadian adult work, Rogen bragged. Log Riders, Sticky Syrup, and of course, the Moose Knuckles trilogy. Moose Knuckles 2 was a massive hit, gushed OHara. Advertisement Rogen proudly recalled that the original Moose Knuckles won Canadas most illustrious adult film award. Wait, you won the Beaver? asked OHara. We won the Beaver, Rogen confirmed. Actually, we swept the Beavers that year. Multi-Beaver winning film. My mother especially loves Knuckles Deep. It's like they always say who needs a Golden Globe as long as you have a Beaver? Based on his Best Actor win for The Brutalist at last nights Golden Globe Awards, Adrien Brody might be on his way to a second Oscar. But no matter how many prestigious trophies he piles up on the mantle, its unlikely that hell ever win the forgiveness of SNL producer Lorne Michaels, who allegedly put the actor on the shows unofficial banned list back in 2003. Brodys introduction of musical guest Sean Paul will go down in SNL history for his just-this-side-of-Black-face performance, complete with stereotypical Jamaican accent and dreadlocked wig. The borderline character was infuriating enough, but according to SNL legend, what really irked Michaels was that Brody had gone off-script. Racism is one thing but surprising Michaels is the ultimate sin. Another banned guest, Sinead OConnor, got on the wrong side of Michaels but not for tearing up a picture of the Pope. Instead, it was dishonest because she didnt tell us she was going to do it, he told Spin. Don't Miss Every line, every bit of dialogue has a camera cut attached to it, Michaels once told Vulture. If youre not where youre supposed to be, then theyre going to miss the shot. Anyway, back to Brody. According to Saturday Night Live FAQ, the first-time host was trouble all week long. Tina Fey told Howard Stern that Brody pitched his own unfunny sketch ideas and wasnt happy when Michaels and the shows writers ignored them. Brody knew his jokes werent landing. They were all literally agape from me pitching, he told Vulture. Advertisement Could that have been the reason he decided to do his unplanned rasta bit? But Brody, revisiting the incident during his recent Brutalist press tour, says the introduction was planned all along. Of course Saturday Night Live knew about the bit in advance. Otherwise, why would the costume department have given him the dreadlocks wig? Maybe the problem was Brody riffing and extending the impression. I think Lorne wasnt happy with me embellishing a bit, but they allowed me to, he said. I thought that was a safe space to do that, weirdly. Advertisement In fact, Brody wants to host again. I had a great time, he told Huffington Post in 2012. But is he banned from the show? Brody admits hes heard the rumors but neither Michaels nor anyone at SNL has told him hes out for good, at least not officially. Then again, as he told Vulture, I also have never been invited back on, so I dont know what to tell you. Peyton Bolling, a Rogers native, was crowned Miss America's Teen Saturday night, making history as the first representative from Arkansas to win the pageant. Peyton, 17, won the prestigious title at the grand finale held at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando, Florida, where she competed against 51 other contestants from across the United States and Puerto Rico. The teen was chosen as one of the five finalists, competing against Miss Alabama, Mississippi, New Jersey, and Texas. Her victory comes just months after being crowned Miss Arkansas' Teen in June and Miss Dogwood's Teen, per KAIT 8. Who Is Peyton Bolling? Peyton is a 17-year-old senior at Bentonville High School in Rogers, AR. Prior to her run in Miss America's Teen, she had demonstrated exceptional academic and extracurricular achievements, including attending school and working at the U.S. Capitol for five months, according to KATV. She advocated for Simple Acts of Citizenship, a community service initiative that focuses on building better communities through civic involvement, educating people about the role and function of local and state government, raising awareness about the impact of local government positions on everyday life, and encouraging civic participation among the youth. To promote her initiative, the teen launched an Instagram show called "Glimpses in Government," where she interviews local elected officials and nonprofit leaders about the role of the government. Following her win on Saturday, Peyton is set to receive scholarships totaling nearly $1.5 million for college students at over 200 US universities. She has previously received similar awards, including scholarships worth $40,000 to Arkansas State University and $20,000 to the University of Arkansas, $10,500 in scholarships from Pafford Medical Services, and more than $25,000 in prizes, clothing, and gifts, according to Marca. Peyton will have a yearlong tenure as Miss America's Teen. What Is Miss America's Teen All About? The pageant is a contest for teenagers aged 13 to 18 in the US. It is the youth version of the Miss America beauty pageant. Both pageants aim to empower women, encourage their leadership, and facilitate access to higher education. Miss America's Teen sees 51 young women competing for the title, each representing a state of the US, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. This year's winner was determined by voting. Eddie Murphy gets most of the credit for bringing Shreks Donkey to life, but he didnt do it alone. While Murphys signature voice provided the comic timing, Donkeys physical appearance was based on a real-life miniature donkey named Perry, who moved on last week to that great fairy-tale swamp in the sky. We are heartbroken to share that our beloved Barron Park donkey, Perry, passed away yesterday at the age of 30, wrote representatives from The Barron Park Donkey Project. The volunteer-run organization in Palo Alto, California, took care of Perry for the past 27 years. He was a beloved member of our community, and we know many people will be touched by his passing. Memorial plans will be announced soon. Play Perry was more than a physical model for Donkey his personality played a big role as well. DreamWorks animators visited the park in 1999 to learn about how donkeys moved and interacted, with Perry serving as their main model. Jenny Kiratli, one of Perry's Barron Park handlers, told PEOPLE that many of Donkeys classic head tilts, eye rolls and bouncy trots were straight from Perry. Advertisement Advertisement While Perry doesnt officially show up in the Shrek film credits, the animation company did donate $75 to Barron Park as a thanks for borrowing the miniature donkeys likeness. (Feeding and caring for donkeys aint cheap, DreamWorks. Maybe you could step it up in memoriam?) In addition to entertaining fans onscreen, Perry delighted the neighborhood with his frequent appearances at Barron Park community events and his daily walks along the bicycle path, according to the Donkey Projects Instagram post. Advertisement He had a huge personality, Kiralti explained. So many children came by all the time to see him. They dont know hes the Shrek donkey. They just know hes a little, fuzzy animal who they love to pet. We will miss you, Perry, the sanctuary wrote. We were lucky to have known you and well never forget you. Chinese hackers linked to the Salt Typhoon cyberespionage operation have breached even more US telecommunications firms than initially reported. New victims Charter Communications, Consolidated Communications, and Windstream add to a growing list that already includes AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Lumen Technologies. Earlier, the US authorities informed that nine telecom firms have been affected by the Chinese espionage campaign. Blog Archive: Mar 2025 (65) Feb 2025 (139) Jan 2025 (155) Dec 2024 (144) Nov 2024 (143) Oct 2024 (155) Sep 2024 (149) Aug 2024 (155) Jul 2024 (155) Jun 2024 (150) May 2024 (153) Apr 2024 (149) Mar 2024 (155) Feb 2024 (145) Jan 2024 (155) Dec 2023 (155) Nov 2023 (150) Oct 2023 (155) Sep 2023 (150) Aug 2023 (155) Jul 2023 (155) Jun 2023 (150) May 2023 (155) Apr 2023 (150) Mar 2023 (155) Feb 2023 (140) Jan 2023 (155) Dec 2022 (156) Nov 2022 (150) Oct 2022 (155) Sep 2022 (150) Aug 2022 (155) Jul 2022 (154) Jun 2022 (150) May 2022 (155) Apr 2022 (150) Mar 2022 (155) Feb 2022 (140) Jan 2022 (156) Dec 2021 (156) Nov 2021 (150) Oct 2021 (155) Sep 2021 (150) Aug 2021 (155) Jul 2021 (155) Jun 2021 (150) May 2021 (155) Apr 2021 (150) Mar 2021 (155) Feb 2021 (140) Jan 2021 (155) Dec 2020 (155) Nov 2020 (150) Oct 2020 (158) Sep 2020 (150) Aug 2020 (130) Jul 2020 (124) Jun 2020 (120) May 2020 (124) Apr 2020 (120) Mar 2020 (124) Feb 2020 (116) Jan 2020 (125) Dec 2019 (126) Nov 2019 (120) Oct 2019 (124) Sep 2019 (120) Aug 2019 (125) Jul 2019 (124) Jun 2019 (120) May 2019 (123) Apr 2019 (121) Mar 2019 (124) Feb 2019 (112) Jan 2019 (125) Dec 2018 (126) Nov 2018 (120) Oct 2018 (124) Sep 2018 (121) Aug 2018 (124) Jul 2018 (125) Jun 2018 (120) May 2018 (124) Apr 2018 (121) Mar 2018 (124) Feb 2018 (112) Jan 2018 (123) Dec 2017 (124) Nov 2017 (124) Oct 2017 (141) Sep 2017 (135) Aug 2017 (138) Jul 2017 (137) Jun 2017 (134) May 2017 (138) Apr 2017 (135) Mar 2017 (139) Feb 2017 (129) Jan 2017 (143) Dec 2016 (135) Nov 2016 (138) Oct 2016 (142) Sep 2016 (128) Aug 2016 (133) Jul 2016 (136) Jun 2016 (138) May 2016 (164) Apr 2016 (311) Mar 2016 (348) Feb 2016 (320) Jan 2016 (348) Dec 2015 (314) Nov 2015 (338) Oct 2015 (363) Sep 2015 (358) Aug 2015 (399) Jul 2015 (374) Jun 2015 (331) May 2015 (337) Apr 2015 (319) Mar 2015 (320) Feb 2015 (271) Jan 2015 (286) Dec 2014 (254) Nov 2014 (238) Oct 2014 (287) Sep 2014 (267) Aug 2014 (259) Jul 2014 (260) Jun 2014 (238) May 2014 (241) Apr 2014 (228) Mar 2014 (240) Feb 2014 (217) Jan 2014 (263) Dec 2013 (226) Nov 2013 (254) Oct 2013 (256) Sep 2013 (252) Aug 2013 (263) Jul 2013 (261) Jun 2013 (251) May 2013 (250) Apr 2013 (221) Mar 2013 (193) Feb 2013 (164) Jan 2013 (157) Dec 2012 (155) Nov 2012 (240) Oct 2012 (526) Sep 2012 (411) Aug 2012 (394) Jul 2012 (284) Jun 2012 (229) May 2012 (213) Apr 2012 (213) Mar 2012 (253) Feb 2012 (269) Jan 2012 (298) Dec 2011 (273) Nov 2011 (219) Oct 2011 (204) Sep 2011 (201) Aug 2011 (236) Jul 2011 (217) Jun 2011 (211) May 2011 (206) Apr 2011 (215) Mar 2011 (215) Feb 2011 (186) Jan 2011 (215) Dec 2010 (107) Nov 2010 (98) Oct 2010 (55) On one of his recent visits to the United Kingdom, the Prime Minister proclaimed that his administration would act in the spirit of the reforming post-war Labour government of Clement Attlee. We'll let the historians decide if that turns out to be anything more than empty rhetoric. But it is already clear that Sir Keir Starmer's role model would have been appalled by the first of this Labour Government's so-called 'reforms' to be implemented. I refer to the imposition of a new tax on those parents who send their children to independent schools, introduced on January 1 (in the middle of the school year). Keir Starmer proclaimed that his administration would act in the spirit of the reforming post-war Labour government of Clement Attlee, but the PM's role model would have been appalled by the first of this Labour Government's so-called 'reforms' to be implemented Clement Attlee, when setting up what we now call the welfare state, was adamant in leaving the private educational sector well alone. He had been educated at an independent school, Haileybury, and was proud, rather than ashamed, of this connection. Indeed, he even bequeathed his Garter banner to the school (it now resides in its Attlee Room). And as a young man, Attlee spent years volunteering at Haileybury House, an East London youth club for working-class boys which was funded by his old school. Squeeze This would now be described as an outreach project, the sort of activity which private schools have funded in their locality over generations but which will be cut back as a result of the squeeze now being put on them by Whitehall. That will inevitably include many bursaries for children from less well-off families of the sort which funded the young Keir Starmer, enabling him to stay on at Reigate Grammar School after it went independent. For it is not just the imposition of 20 per cent VAT on fees which these schools will have to absorb. They are also (along with the rest of the private sector) being clobbered by the entirely unexpected swingeing increase in employers' national insurance. Clement Attlee, when setting up what we now call the welfare state, was adamant in leaving the private educational sector well alone An advert by the Treasury claiming that VAT on private school fees ends a 'tax break' And, in an additional act of spite, from April 1, 2025, independent schools with charitable status will lose their 80 per cent business rate relief. As my brother Tom, the headmaster of Eastbourne College, aptly remarks: 'It's this triple whammy that is so damaging.' The Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, blithely asserts that independent schools, through efficiency savings, should not have to pass on all of the 20 per cent increase in fees to parents. Of course, schools will have no choice but to charge the full VAT to parents: it is mandated by Labour's own new law. And if it's so easy for institutions to cope with rapid and multiple extra charges, how about Ms Reeves asking the public sector to make similarly steep efficiency savings, rather than walloping private businesses with 40 billion of extra taxes to fund the state? In fact, the Chancellor is proud of this persecution of the independent educational sector: on New Year's Day the Treasury launched a social media campaign, with advertisements declaring 'Tax breaks for private schools will end from 2025'. But it isn't, or rather wasn't, a tax break. The tax known as VAT came in after we joined the European Community in 1973. It replaced our Purchase Tax, which had never been imposed on education, in any form. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson says 'ending tax advantages for the super-rich' will somehow 'raise educational standards' VAT, however, imposed a tax on all goods and services and so the British Government scheduled certain of them to be exempt. Food was one; education, in its entirety, was another. Indeed, education was exempted from VAT by all European countries. What Keir Starmer's Government is now doing is not removing 'a tax break': it is varying the exemption for education but only at the expense of the independent schools sector. It is not, for example, requiring universities to charge VAT on their fees. As Timothy Straker KC, a leading expert on tax law, points out: 'I have not heard it suggested that those paying university fees are enjoying a tax break.' Envy I understand why Labour ministers constantly, if dishonestly, describe the independent schools as having enjoyed a 'tax break'. They are pursuing the politics of envy, playing on the emotions of those who, when they hear the words 'private school', think only of Eton College, whose 52,749 annual fees have now been increased to over 63,000, and not of the standard private school coeducational and charging an average of 15,000 (before VAT). But this dishonest social media ad campaign is not being fronted by Labour MPs: it is under the logo of 'HM Treasury'. In other words, it is the work of the Civil Service, under political instruction. The social media ads that we, as taxpayers, are funding, go on to proclaim that the money raised by removing the 'tax break' will 'enable better investment in state education', including '6,500 extra teachers'. But the Treasury has no idea how much money will be raised, because its officials do not know how many parents will, as a result of the policy, feel they have no choice but to remove their children from independent schools and thus increase the burden on the state sector. Moreover, the Treasury has no plans in place to ring-fence whatever the new private education tax does raise for use in state schools. It is just part of the vast pot of government revenues. It would be no less true to say that the new tax will go to fund our overseas aid, or that the money raised by inheritance tax will go to fund the 'extra 6,500 teachers' in the state sector. (And, by the way, that amounts to little more than a quarter of an extra teacher for each of our 25,000 maintained schools.) As another lawyer, Daniel ShenSmith, has pointed out, this social media advertising campaign 'breaks the rules on the ethics guide for government communications. This is a new tax, not removing a tax break.' Hoodwinked There are, in fact, countries which do provide a genuine tax break for parents who send their children to independent schools. Denmark is one. And five of Canada's ten provinces do the same. These tax credits are based, in part, on the point that it is cheaper for the state to do this rather than fund such pupils entirely via the state sector. As Paige MacPherson, the director of educational policy at Canada's Fraser Institute, exclaimed to the Daily Telegraph when she was told of the British Government's policy: 'Oh wow, that means parents are going to be taxed twice over. That would be a pretty unique set-up based on my understanding of the different education systems around the world.' Yes, it is unique: but, alas, if the opinion polls are to be believed, also widely supported by the British public (by a margin of roughly two to one). It seems they have been comprehensively hoodwinked by Labour's claim that this is part of what the Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson calls 'ending tax advantages for the super-rich', and that it will somehow, as she also boasts, 'raise educational standards'. If anything, it will do the opposite. And when the state sector is confronted with the requirement to handle possibly thousands of extra pupils with special educational needs, whose already hard-pressed parents cannot afford to pay the new education tax at their children's independent special schools, it will be Bridget Phillipson's job to explain that away. What a cruel mess. Winston Churchill once observed that 'an appeaser is one who feeds a crocodile, hoping it will eat him last'. So it was yesterday, as Nigel Farage found himself mercilessly devoured by Elon Musk. After months of trying to ingratiate himself with the world's richest man in the hope of securing favours and funding, Reform's leader was finally forced to distance himself from comments Musk had made in support of far-Right extremist Tommy Robinson. At which point Musk's repudiation was brutal and swift. 'The Reform Party needs a new leader. Farage doesn't have what it takes,' he tweeted, before ranting about rapists in Catalonia, German Pakistanis and Jimmy Savile. He also took the time to repost an article by Kemi Badenoch from yesterday's Mail on Sunday calling for a full public inquiry into the grooming gangs. An intervention that did not escape the notice of Tory HQ. 'This is a big moment,' one shadow minister exclaimed. 'Not just the Kemi retweet, but the split with Farage. It's like Hitler turning on Stalin and invading Russia.' Maybe it's not quite of that import. But it's a significant political schism nonetheless. Nigel Farage had been hoping that hints from Musk about financial support for Reform might lead to a significant political donation. And for a party with only five MPs, the positive free exposure to Musk's 210million followers on his social media platform X was worth its weight in gold. Or possibly bitcoin. Farage was also hoping that he would be able to use the upcoming presidential inauguration to frame himself as being at the heart of a global Trump-Musk-MAGA axis. Nigel Farage on BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg yesterday. He praised Elon Musk hours before the billionaire called for Reform to dump him After months of trying to ingratiate himself with Musk in the hope of securing favours and funding, Farage was finally forced to distance himself from comments the world's richest man made in support of far-Right extremist Tommy Robinson (pictured) But with one flick of a megalo-maniacal finger, those dreams have turned to dust. So there is no doubt this high-profile rebuke of his leadership liked by 81,000 of Musk's followers at the time of writing, and counting has come as a blow to Clacton's most renowned resident. But in a strange way it has also done him a favour. Firstly, Nigel Farage deserves credit for taking a stand against Musk, and pointing out that Tommy Robinson is not a hero wrongly imprisoned for a selfless campaign on behalf of working-class girls, but a thug and extremist who has rightly been jailed for contempt of court. As one Tory MP grudgingly acknowledged to me: 'He was prepared to stand up to him even though it cost him 100million. Fair play.' He has also distanced himself from a man who is becoming increasingly toxic to UK voters. The British are not idiots. Nor are they serfs. They may be deeply disillusioned with their political class. But they don't need a foreign billionaire lecturing them on it, and acting like their puppet-master. Or, as Musk did earlier in the week, demanding their King overturn an election that was held only six months ago because Keir Starmer had dared deliver some hurty-words about him. Yes, Elon Musk's withdrawal of support from Farage has damaged him. But it's actually done more damage to himself. Everyone can clearly see Musk for what he is now. No serious person can dismiss Farage as a member of the despised 'mainstream media', or the woke British establishment, or a member of the 'Uni-Party'. He dared do the one thing Elon Musk cannot countenance: He told him patiently and calmly he was wrong. Reform treasurer Nick Candy, Musk and Farage at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort last month So there is no need, as some have been suggesting, to impose bans on Musk's social media platform. Or introduce stringent new rules on party funding. All that is required is to let the X owner do what he does best expose himself via his own words. Elon Musk builds clever rockets and cars. But he knows nothing and cares even less about British politics or the British people. His increasingly deranged interventions in pursuit of his wildly incoherent agenda need to be monitored. But the idea that they represent a meaningful contribution to our domestic politics has now been safely rubbished. Last week Nigel Farage was his hero. This week he is his enemy. Next week Musk will have moved his attention to another target. Yesterday Elon Musk's smiling jaws gobbled up Reform's leader. And it may well turn out to be the best thing that could have happened to him. Health Secretary Wes Streeting says if the NHS cant be modernised it will go the way of Woolworths, a beloved national institution that failed to change with the times and died. Its easy to see what he means and hard to disagree in principle. But there is a huge difference between those two institutions. Woolworths was a private company in a highly competitive market. When it failed, it was quickly replaced by smarter, more efficient and more nimble retailers. With the NHS there is no such luxury. Unless there is a political earthquake, however poor its performance and however much money it sucks in, were stuck with it. Mr Streeting deserves credit for apparently trying to inject some modern thinking into what has become a sclerotic, over-bureaucratic organisation. His suggested reforms (to be endorsed by Sir Keir Starmer today), such as 7-day diagnostic centres and a new appointments app, are sensible. But on the fundamentals low productivity, staff shortages, the social care crisis, the chronic shortage of hospital beds Labour has had little to say. Awarding large pay rises to NHS staff without demanding any productivity improvements in return was a huge mistake, as is commissioning yet another report into the problems of social care rather than actually trying to tackle them. The Government is splashing out an extra 22billion to fund these and other improvements. Sadly, without genuine root-and-branch reform its likely to prove no more than just another sticking plaster on a dangerously deteriorating wound. Health Secretary Wes Streeting says if the NHS cant be modernised it will go the way of Woolworths' Awarding large pay rises to NHS staff without demanding any productivity improvements in return was a huge mistake Woolworths was a private company in a highly competitive market. When it failed, it was quickly replaced by smarter, more efficient and more nimble retailers. A closed branch is pictured here in Stoke-on-Trent in December 2020 Pressure on Siddiq Disquiet grows over City minister Tulip Siddiqs links with allegedly corrupt politicians in Bangladesh. Her aunt, Sheikh Hasina, was prime minister of that country until she and her Awami League party were forced from power amid accusations of human rights abuses and financial misappropriation. An anti-corruption commission in Bangladesh claims Ms Siddiq and other family members embezzled some 3.9 billion from a nuclear energy programme. A Mail on Sunday investigation also revealed she was gifted a London apartment by a property developer connected to her aunt a fact she initially denied. Ms Siddiq rejects any suggestion of impropriety and is, of course, entitled to the presumption of innocence. But she is not just any backbench MP. She is a senior member of the Government, part of whose role is to oversee the fight against corruption and money laundering. These allegations are a crushing blow to her credibility in that role. Sir Keir Starmer has stood behind his minister so far, but until she has cleared her name, shouldnt he ask her to step aside? Land Registry records showed Ms Siddiq became the sole owner of the third-floor flat in November 2004, when she had just finished a masters degree at King's College London Mercurial Musk By calling for Nigel Farage to be replaced as leader of Reform UK, Elon Musk plunges a metaphorical dagger into the back of his supposed friend and ally. Mr Farage provoked Mr Musks ire by distancing himself from the tech billionaires support for English Defence League founder Tommy Robinson. Robinson is a criminal, a rabble-rouser and racist and Mr Farage is right to shun him. Yes, mega-rich Mr Musk has some radical ideas about political reform. But, as this outburst demonstrates, he is also capricious and mercurial. Reform, or any other party, embraces him and his money at its peril. An airline passenger has slammed an 'absurd' airline for moving her away from his seat to accommodate a dog. The passenger was flying from San Diego to Denver on United Airlines and claims she was bumped for 'an enormous service dog'. Taking to Reddit, the traveller said the service dog was 'too big to fit on the floor' and therefore was allowed to sit on their seat during a United Airlines. The passenger wrote: 'He was way too big to fit on the floor. The flight attendant was a few rows away and when asked if she saw the dog, she just shrugged. 'My husband and I tried to resolve it with the passenger but there was no way that dog could fit under his legs in his window seat. 'Since we were told that it was a completely full flight, and the dog was taking my seat, I thought I was going to get bumped off the flight by this dog.' The passenger explained that eventually, a flight attendant found another seat for them, leaving the animal on the seat next to their owner - which they found 'absurd'. 'A United staff member came onboard and spoke to the passenger but the dog remained,' they continued. An airline passenger revealed on Reddit that they were left fuming after discovering they were moved from their seat to accommodate a service dog on a United Airlines flight 'Finally, somehow they located another seat for me. The dog stayed on my seat for the whole flight. Totally absurd that an oversized dog can displace a paying passenger from their seat. United needs to crack down on passengers abusing the 'service' animal allowance. 'How can someone be allowed onboard with a dog that big without buying an extra seat?' In a photo attached, a large black dog was seen sitting on the middle seat next to its owner. She continued: 'United's policy is that service dogs 'can't be in the aisle or the floor space of the travellers next to you'. 'Also it is nasty to have a dog outside of a carrier sitting on passengers' seats with his butt on the armrests. 'The gate agents carefully check the size my carry-on, but apparently they don't monitor the size of people's 'service' dogs! WTH?!' Many rushed to the comments with their own thoughts on the controversial topic. One person wrote: 'A disabled person never has to pay extra to reserve a seat. 'Disabled people are supposed to be accommodated with the bulkhead seat (not near an emergency exit) even if it displaces someone that paid extra for that seat. 'The bulkhead seat has floor space for the service dog, which are not allowed on the seat. United flight attendants were not following regulations in this case.' Another said: 'Even if you purchase a second seat, a service animal is never allowed in a seat, according to United manuals. They can only occupy the additional floor space provided.' Someone else agreed: 'They can book the second seat but policy is still that the dog is not IN the seat but on the floor space.' A fourth said: 'A lot of service dogs are larger especially if they help with mobility. That being said, they should have paid for bulkhead if the dog didn't fit.' United Airlines website states: 'Your dog should sit in the floor space in front of your seat. They can't be in the aisle or the floor space of the travellers next to you.' A United Airlines spokesperson told Femail: 'Our policy calls for service animals to sit either in the floor space in front of a customer or in the customers lap. 'If they need more space, the customer will need to purchase an extra seat or a seat in a premium cabin so there is room for the animal to sit in the available floor space. 'Occasionally, we may ask other customers to consider changing seats to accommodate a larger service animal.' Stay-at-home mother Millie said she likes that Harley is the 'breadwinner' One of the daughters of Britain's biggest family has revealed her wedding was almost called off after she argued with her fiance about spending too much money. Millie Radford, 23, said that she argued with her now husband Harley Passmore ahead of their lavish ceremony at Wennington Hall in Lancashire in November. The mother-of-three, who is the daughter of Sue and Noel Radford, was branded a 'bridezilla' as she planned the nuptials, with the help of her mother and siblings in the latest episode of 22 Kids and Counting. Millie, a stay-at-home mother, was seen picking out 'the most expensive wedding dress' in the shop, as Sue says her expectations 'are quite high'. But things changed when Harley lost his job and had to make the hard choice to put his foot down with how much the wedding cost. Harley was heard saying to his fiancee: 'You think it's going to be some fairytale ending. Like "I want this, I want that" well it's not happening.' And the pair were seen bickering over the colour theme of the wedding, as Millie wanted yellow but Harley said he disliked it and would much prefer teal blue. Earlier on in the episode, Millie said: 'I like a traditional relationship where Harley is the breadwinner. He thinks he makes all the decisions but I tell him what to do. I wear the trousers in the relationship.' Harley and Millie were seen bickering after he lost his job in the run up to their expensive wedding Millie Radford, 23, from Morecambe, tied the knot in a lavish ceremony at Wennington Hall in Lancashire When Millie went wedding dress shopping with her friends and family, she scoured the whole store to find the perfect frock. The store clerk asked the bride-to-be whether she had a budget in mind, to which she joked that her father had one in mind. After searching around for dresses, some of which had price tags of more than 2,000, Sue said her daughter had picked 'the most expensive' in the shop. This caused the mother-of-22 to reflect on her wedding day in 1992, where she purchased her gown for 80 in the sale. Speaking about the big day, Sue said: 'Expectations are quite high I must admit.' Noel added: 'Well that's the thing isn't it? Young people, they just look on these Instagram and all these other platforms and see the perfect dress, the perfect cake and decide that's what they want.' Sue and Millie looked at having the celebration at the prestigious Wennington Hall, where packages start at an eye-watering 8,995. Millie, a stay-at-home mother, was seen picking out 'the most expensive wedding dress' in the shop, as Sue says her expectations 'are quite high' The family rented giant 'Mr & Mrs' LED lights for the wedding reception venue, alongside a DJ Millie is one of the oldest children of Britain's biggest family, who boast more than 530,000 followers on their joint Instagram and are the stars of the Channel 5 show, 22 Kids and Counting. When a worker at a wedding venue asked whether they thought the cost was in their price range, Sue said: 'It's more than what we were hoping for.' The pair went to view the hall before Harley lost his job, as Sue said: 'I think Harley might have to work a few extra shifts at work.' Harley proposed to Millie during a family trip to Disneyland in Florida and accidentally dropped the ring as he got down on one knee. He said he met Millie when he was fixing the Radford family's roof. He needed to use their toilet and saw 'a beautiful girl' answer the door. 'To be honest I do have to watch what I spend. I am not a rich man. I wouldn't say I had money [growing up],' Harley explained. His father got sick when he was a teenager and couldn't continue working as an electrician, so money was tight when Harley was growing up. Harley - who was working 12 hour shifts to pay for the wedding - was sacked after he had to take time off from his first full time job after Millie became sick with a stomach bug. The couple couldn't get childcare and she did not feel well enough to look after their three children, which forced Harley to step up. His employer said 'things weren't working out', which left the couple panicking about what to do about their high-cost wedding. Millie said: '[He's] lazy, sits on his Xbox all day everyday, snappy, out of routine and doesn't help around the house at all.' And Noel and Sue were far from happy when hearing that Harley was out of work. The Radford family uploaded the trailer on their YouTube channel, where many commented their thoughts on Harley and Millie's argument 'For God's sake,' Noel said. 'I think the idea was that Sue and I would take the bulk of the cost, but not all. But it's only right that Harley chip in and make the effort to pay for something.' 'They can't expect us to pay for everything. If they want this wedding to happen, they need to start cutting corners.' Harley losing his job put a lot of strain on the couple, as they were caught on camera arguing in the street. Millie was then seen storming off and said she was taking her child to her 'mum's house'. The duo spent some time apart to gather their thoughts, as Harley said: 'She kept saying "it's over" and she went to her mum's house.' Millie admitted: 'I always blame Harley but it's Harley nine times out of 10 who causes the argument.' But some time apart did the pair well, as they decided to continue with the wedding and sort out their differences. Harley also managed to get back on the payroll with another job, meaning that he could give Millie the wedding of her dreams. The Radford family uploaded the trailer to their YouTube channel, where many commented their thoughts on Harley and Millie's argument. One said: 'A wedding dont have to cost the earth its about love not showing off.' Another penned: 'Millie is being a spoilt brat. She needs a reality check. We got married on a budget 46 years ago and we have never regretted it. 'My engagement ring was one of the cheapest in the shop. I still love wearing it. All of I want this and I want that is not what makes you happy.' A third wrote: 'I loved this show when it was all about FAMILY and being together. All it is now is nothing but corporate monetization, branding and labels.' A fourth commented: 'It's a wedding that sadly will probably not last.' Millie has three children, Ophelia Jo, Chester Bleu and Elodie Jade, two of which she shares with Harley. Queen Letizia of Spain stepped out in a radiant rouge ensemble as she attended the Pascua Militar event in Madrid today. The royal, 52, was joined by her husband King Felipe VI, 56, and their eldest daughter, Princess Leonor, 19, for the annual military ceremony, Pascua Militar, on Monday at the Royal Palace in Madrid. Letizia put on a dazzling display in a beautiful burgundy frock and stylish black fur coat - while Felipe and Leonor sported full military regalia alongside. The mother-of-two appeared in good spirits as she walked alongside her teenage daughter, beaming with pride as prepared to mark the annual military event - which is a National Holiday in Spain. The Queen of Spain sported a full length red and burgundy gown and a pair of kitten heels in the same shade. Shielding from the cold blast, Letizia snuggled up in a stylish black fur coat, pulling the fashionable number up to her chin. The Spanish royal wore a full glam makeup look with a flawless base, bronze accentuated cheeks and a full rouged lip. Letizia looked as though she had just stepped straight off the red carpet - with her glossy brunette tresses blow-dried to perfection. Queen Letizia of Spain stepped out in a radiant rouge ensemble as she attended the Pascua Militar event in Madrid today. Pictured alongside Princess Leonor, 19 (left) The royal, 52, was joined by her husband King Felipe VI, 56, (left) and their eldest daughter, Princess Leonor, 19, for the annual military ceremony, Pascua Militar, on Monday at the Royal Palace in Madrid Accessorising the ensemble, the former journalist donned a set of classic pearls around her neck - doubling up with a matching set of drop earrings. Elsewhere Felipe, 56, looked smart in full military regalia, sporting a khaki suit, red waistband - representing the highest military rank - and pink and white striped sash. The king has served in the military for almost three decades until he acceded to the throne in 2014. Throughout his long military career King Felipe was promoted multiple times, achieving the status of lieutenant colonel in the Army, frigate captain in the Navy, and lieutenant colonel in the Air Force in 2009. On becoming King on June 19, 2014 when his father abdicated, King Felipe was made Commander-In-Chief of the entire military. Joining her parents, 19-year-old Princess Leonor - who began three years of military training in 2023 - looked just the part in a navy blue uniform. The young royal sported soft but glamorous makeup with a shimmer eyeshadow, flawless based and lightly bronze dusted cheeks. She wore her blonde hair scrapped back into a professional looking bun. Letizia put on a dazzling display in a beautiful burgundy frock and stylish black fur coat - while Felipe and Leonor sported full military regalia alongside The mother-of-two appeared in good spirits as she walked alongside her teenage daughter, beaming with pride as prepared to mark the annual military event - which is a National Holiday in Spain The Queen of Spain sported a full length red and burgundy gown and a pair of kitten heels in the same shade Leonor started at the Naval Military Academy of Marin in the summer of 2023 and has since been promoted to the rank of Cadet Ensign and awarded the Grand Cross of Military Merit by her father. On Monday morning, the family arrived for the Pascua Militar, which takes place on 6 January every year at the Royal Palace in Madrid. The event began with the New Years Military Parade outside the Royal Palace and after the National Anthem and a 21 gun salute, King Felipe reviewed the Royal Guard. During the ceremony, the King of Spain welcomes a number of official guests including the Prime Minister, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of defence the Chiefs of Staff of all branches, the Grand Masters of the Royal and Military Orders of San Fernando and San Hermenegildo, the Civil Guard chiefs and Spanish Veterans Brotherhood. After troops have been reviewed by the king in the courtyard of the Royal Palace, officials will head to he Throne Room of the Royal Palace where a number of military personnel will be rewarded for their service. While centered around a main event in Madrid, the military event will be celebrated across Spain in its different military headquarters. The outing is the Spanish royal's first public appearance since the start of the New Year, with the two having embraced a busy schedule in the run up to Christmas. The king and queen were seen attending an inauguration ceremony for a new hospital just before Christmas, both leaning into festive tones for the event. Shielding from the cold blast, Letizia snuggled up in a stylish black fur coat, pulling the fashionable number up to her chin Joining her parents, 19-year-old Princess Leonor - who began three years of military training in 2023 - looked just the part in a navy blue uniform The young royal sported soft but glamorous makeup with a shimmer eyeshadow, flawless based and lightly bronze dusted cheeks Letizia looked as though she had just stepped straight off the red carpet with her glossy brunette tresses blow-dried to perfection The mother-of-two appeared to lean into Christmas tones as she sported a scarlet suit with a satin cream shirt. She accessorised with sophisticated suede shoes and a matching taupe handbag. Letizia wore her chestnut tresses down in a styled blowout, and opted for glam make-up with a bold lipstick and bronze eyeshadow. The royal couple showed their support for Cuenca University Hospital, which will have new technology, more beds and operating theatres as well as a wider range of services. Photos showed the smiling pair posing for photos as they chatted with other attendees. A week before Christmas Day, the Spanish royals released their annual Christmas card featuring a never-before-seen family photo and a touching message for those affected by the deadly floods in Valencia. In the heartfelt card, Letizia cut an elegant figure in a satin aqua blue dress as she wrapped her arm around her first daughter Leonor, 19. The heir to the Spanish throne towered over her mother and struck a festive chord in a tailored red trouser suit. On Monday morning, the family arrived for the Pascua Militar, which takes place on 6 January every year at the Royal Palace in Madrid Leonor started at the Naval Military Academy of Marin in the summer of 2023 and has since been promoted to the rank of Cadet Ensign and awarded the Grand Cross of Military Merit by her father On the far left, Felipe looked as dapper as ever in a navy suit and patterned tie with one hand on his 17-year-old daughter Sofia's arm as she wore a navy patterned jumpsuit. The wholesome family picture was snapped after the royals presided over the Solemn Changing of the Royal Guard in June. The historic event kicked off celebrations for the ten-year anniversary of King Felipe ascension to the throne. Signed by all four members of the family, a message is written in both Spanish and English. It reads: 'Merry Christmas, and may we all face the New Year with greater confidence.' Notably, there was also a touching tribute to those affected by the floods in Valencia in November. A total of 224 people died in the floods, 216 of them in Valencia, seven in the neighbouring region of Castilla-La Mancha and one in Andalucia. The kitchen and second bathroom are also very bizarre and colourful A listing for a detached family home in Wales has left house hunters in stitches after they noticed an eye-raising feature. From the outside, the four-bedroom house, located in Conwy, looks like an ordinary picturesque period property. With whitewashed walls, stained glass windows and high ceilings, the grade II listed pre-Georgian residence is seemingly perfect for those who like the finer things in life. The property is on sale on Rightmove 875,000 and is one of only two known Medieval buildings within the Town Walls, according to the listing. But eagle-eyed viewers spotted a feature in the Welsh house that was described by some as 'very tacky'. It seems the owner wanted to bring a touch of modernity to their classic cottage by fully redecorating the bathroom. They decided they didn't want any ordinary bathtub and instead wanted to bathe in the luxury of a high-heeled shoe. The impressive chunky platform tub features an array of different pink tiles from dark plum to ballet slipper pink. It seems the owner of the property decided they didn't want any ordinary bathtub and instead wanted to bathe in the luxury of a high-heeled shoe The bath also has several patterns of a rose-pink bow underneath and along the sides and along the sides of the glamorous shoe. It is unclear whether the actual heel of the shoe tub has any particular use, or whether it is just there for the dramatic effect. The bathroom has plain white walls, so it does not distract house hunters from the main attraction. And some have even questioned whether the oddly shaped sink is actually meant to be a coffee cup. The white basin has a tall, slim base and an open handle loop where the soap dispenser sits. A man named Kevin, from Ireland, found the bizarre property and posed it on X with the caption: 'Think of the most incredible thing you could find in this Welsh cottage. 'Then scroll to photo #17 to find something that your wildest imagination could not even envisage. You WILL NOT be disappointed.' His tweet racked up more than 80,000 views, as other users commented on the unique feature. From the outside, the four-bedroom house, located in Conwy, looks like an ordinary picturesque period property Some have even questioned whether the oddly shaped sink is actually meant to be a coffee cup With whitewashed walls, stained glass windows and high ceilings, the grade II listed pre-Georgian residence is seemingly perfect for those who like the finer things in life The house has a total of three bathrooms and there is another with black patterned walls which also has a peculiarly designed sink that spans the entire wall The kitchen is also not in keeping with the rustic medieval theme, as it is wildly different from the rest of the home The original building of the single storey house was dated to the winter of 1441-42, retaining its overall 16th century form One wrote: 'It's very tacky. So is the bathroom in photo 18.' Another penned: 'It looks like it was decorated by three very different people who all felt tremendous amounts of spite towards the owner.' A third said: 'What on earth? Did a rogue architect sneak in there when the owners weren't looking? A fourth commented: 'That was magnificently mad!!! Love it.' The house has a total of three bathrooms and there is another with black patterned walls which also has a peculiarly designed sink that spans the entire wall The kitchen is also not in keeping with the rustic medieval theme, as it is wildly different from the rest of the home. It features bold cabinets in the colours of red, white, yellow, blue and black that have been colour blocked to create an 70s and 80s effect. Dafydd Hardy, the estate agents selling the property, said the interior offers a 'exceptional originality and preserved heritage'. They state that the original building of the single storey house was dated to the winter of 1441-42, 'retaining its overall 16th century form'. However, it was altered in the 18th century and then again between 2008 and 2015. Dafydd Hardy stated: 'The present owner who oversaw the undoubtedly mammoth task, had an unswerving vision and an obvious love of historic buildings and their heritage.' Queen Mary of Denmark looked striking in a magnificent magnolia and gold gown today as she hosted The Royal Couple's New Year's Reception. The Danish royal, 52, put on a dazzling display on Monday as she arrived at Christian VII's Palace in Amalienborg alongside her husband, King Frederik, 56, for the engagement. The mother-of-two looked angelic in a full length gold brocade dress with full sleeves and a high collar. The regal looking gown, designed by Teri Jon by Rickie Freeman, was previously worn by Mary at an engagement last year - when the queen took a state visit to Greenland alongside her husband. Mary was pictured smiling sweetly as she stepped out in the stunning frock, polishing off the ensemble with a pair of crisp white gloves and a baby blue sash going across her chest. She donned a subtle but classic makeup look with a soft base, rose pink lip and a glamorous smoky eye. The royal wore her thick chocolate tresses in a stylish up do with her stylish fringe framing her face. Accessorisng the look, she styled a pair of pearl drop earrings which perfectly complimented the subtle glow streaming from the gold embroidery on her dress. Queen Mary of Denmark looked striking in a magnificent magnolia and gold gown today as she hosted The Royal Couple's New Year's Reception (pictured with King Frederik, 56, right) The Danish royal, 52, put on a dazzling display on Monday as she arrived at Christian VII's Palace in Amalienborg alongside her husband, King Frederik, for the engagement. Meanwhile, Frederik look dapper in full military regalia, sporting a full black suit, gold epaulettes and a sky blue sash in the same shade as that worn by his wife. He looked every inch the handsome king, sporting his usual subtle beard and short cropped grey hair. The couple - who share Prince Christian of Denmark, 19, and Princess Isabella, 17 - grinned from ear to ear as they were photographed strolling through Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen. For the first part of today's engagement, the royals arrived at Christian VII's Palace in Amalienborg to greet the Supreme Court Judges, the Royal Life Guards, and the Guard House Regiments. As the day continued, the pair were then whisked away so they could attend a second reception was for the Diplomatic Corps at Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen. It comes after the Danish royals were spotted dressed to the nines as they hosted the Royal Family's annual New Year's dinner for the first time, putting on a fairytale like soiree. The Australian-born mother-of-four commanded attention in a bottle green floor-length gown, featuring a lace neckline and sleeves as well as cinched waist to showcase her enviable figure. She teamed her velvet number with an emerald and diamond tiara and matching earrings, while sporting a glamorous makeup look and holding a sparkly silver clutch. The mother-of-two looked angelic in a full length gold brocade dress with full sleeves and a high collar The regal looking gown, designed by Teri Jon by Rickie Freeman, was previously worn by Mary at an engagement last year - when the queen took a state visit to Greenland alongside her husband Mary was pictured smiling sweetly as she stepped out in the stunning frock, polishing off the ensemble with a pair of crisp white gloves and a baby blue sash going across her chest With her hair pinned into a half-up, half-down style, Mary looked picture perfect as she stood next to her husband, 56, who wore a military outfit for the lavish occasion. They were joined by their dashing son Crown Prince Christian; the 19-year-old put on a handsome display in white tie as he made what is thought to be his first appearance at the event. The guestlist also included Princess Benedikte, 80, and the Danish King's brother Prince Joachim, who attended with his stunning wife Princess Marie at Amalienborg Palace in Copenhagen. Last year, Queen Margrethe, 84, announced her shock abdication in her New Year's Eve address to the nation, marking the end of her era as Europe's longest-serving monarch. She hosted that year's gala before her son succeeded her as the country's monarch on January 14, 2024. Although it was now Mary and Frederik's turn to host the New Year's dinner, Margrethe was still on hand at this evening's event, stepping out in a vibrant blue gown. Holding onto a walking stick, the former monarch sported a glittering tiara and a statement fur coat as she arrived at the royal occasion. Her sister Princess Benedikte looked equally dazzling in a tiara, purple dress, pearl necklaces and a white fur shawl. She donned a subtle but classic makeup look with a soft base, rose pink lip and a glamorous smoky eye The royal wore her thick chocolate tresses in a stylish up do with her stylish fringe framing her face Accessorisng the look, she styled a pair of pearl drop earrings which perfectly complimented the subtle glow streaming from the gold on embroidery on her dress Meanwhile, Frederik look dapper in full military regalia, sporting a full black suit, gold epaulettes and a sky blue sash in the same shade as that worn by his wife The Danish Royal Household's appearance comes after Queen Mary wished royal fans a 'peaceful and Merry Christmas' as she posed alongside her family for a festive portrait on Instagram. The royal appeared to be in high spirits as she posed next to her husband, King Frederik and their four children, Prince Christian, Princess Isabella, Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine. She opted for a chic winter ensemble, donning a cream turtleneck jumper and chose to wear her brunette tresses down in a wavy blow-dry. Her mother-in-law, Queen Margrethe, was also included in the heartwarming photograph. The former monarch put her best fashion foot forward, donning a pink and grey tartan patterned jacket, olive green jumper and maxi skirt, along with a pair of black chunky loafers. A woman has claimed that a man was being inappropriate to her at the gym, but when she shared footage of their interaction online, it backfired spectacularly. OnlyFans personality Violet Starr uploaded a clip of her interaction with the unnamed man to TikTok last week as an example of why some women feel uncomfortable while working out, but some viewers were reportedly not on her side. 'This is why I don't go to public gyms anymore,' Starr wrote in white text over the top of her video. The 22-second video has already reached more than 108,000 views since it was posted - but, following fierce uproar, Starr was forced to turn the comments off. The clip showed Starr walking into the gym before she was approached by an older-looking man who spoke with an accent to ask: 'Excuse me, what are you, like, a teacher?' Starr replied to tell him that she wasn't a teacher, but he went on to explain why he thought she was an instructor in the first place. 'Because you're so fit, beautifully fit, and you work out so hard, I thought maybe you were a teacher or something,' he said with a smile. 'No, I'm not,' Starr said again. OnlyFans personality Violet Starr uploaded a clip of her interaction with the unnamed man to TikTok last week as an example of why some women feel uncomfortable while working out 'This is why I don't go to public gyms anymore,' Starr wrote in white text over the top of her video In the caption of the video, she wrote, 'That awkward gym moment that made me want to skip until you walked in.' DailyMail.com reached out to Starr for comment. Before turning off the comments, Starr wrote that 'while the interaction on video was relatively tame, she thought to take out her phone and film following more direct harassment by the men,' according to DailyDot. According to a 2021 survey from RunRepeat, 56.37 percent of female gym members have experienced harassment while working out at the gym. This number was 2.68 times more than the male gym members they surveyed. However, Starr isn't the only person who has filmed their uncomfortable experience in the gym in recent months. In 2023, some women took to TikTok to film themselves working out in a bid to catch predatory men in the gym. 'Because you're so fit, beautifully fit, and you work out so hard, I thought maybe you were a teacher or something,' he said with a smile (stock image) At the time, videos with the hashtag #GymCreep and #GymWeirdo - mostly uploaded by UK and US users - had amassed over 100 million views on the platform. That year, US influencer Gina went viral when she shared a clip of a 'creepy' man who positioned near to where she was lifting weights. She wrote: 'Watch this creep come over to my personal bubble while doing [dead-lifts].' As she continues lifting her weights, the clip shows the anonymous older man setting up right behind Gina. Gina said: 'The gym was practically empty and [there are] so many corners to be in and he chose this one.' She continued: 'I've been in this corner for 10 minutes before him and only had one set left.' Determined not to let him interrupt her workout, Gina continued her squats in front of the mirror. In the background, the man - who she accused of ogling her minutes before- is seen moving one weight from side-to-side close behind her. Explaining why she had got her camera out, Gina added: 'I started recording him so now we're all uncomfortable together. 'He was literally starring at my [bum] before this.' What's more, Gina said she felt so threatened by the man's behavior that she didn't feel safe returning. She added: 'I am never coming back to this gym.' Urging other women to stay vigilant, Gina captioned the clip: 'Be careful out there girlies because wtf??' The TV star hinted at their sex life and admitted: 'I am a very lucky lady' Rachael, 56, has been married to actor John, 57, since September 2005 Rachael Ray has revealed that she thought husband John Cusimano was gay when she first met him many years ago. According to Us Weekly, Ray, 56, opened up about her husband during an appearance on Tommy DiDario's I've Never Said This Before podcast. In the new episode, the TV star recalled a hilarious miscommunication she had with Cusimano, 57, before she started dating him in 2001. 'The first time I saw my husband, I thought he was gay and I tried to set him up on a date with a male friend of mine,' Ray recalled, before adding: 'And he said, "But I am not gay."' The author admitted she was so excited to find out Cusimano was actually single. 'Then I was like, "Check, please!" and I couldn't wait to get him in the sack. It was [a memorable evening] and he is a very blessed man,' Ray divulged. The brunette apparently could not stop smiling as she hinted at her sex life during the podcast. 'I had to buy two different sized suits for our wedding from Prada because his jacket was one size and his trouser was another,' Ray revealed. Rachael Ray has revealed that she thought her husband John Cusimano was gay when she first met him. The couple are pictured here in 2010 The couple, seen here in June 2024, married in Italy in September 2005 but made the decision not to have children 'I certainly am - I am a very lucky lady,' she teased. The couple said 'I do' in September 2005, in Tuscany, Italy, but made the decision not have children. During a November episode of her own podcast, I'll Sleep When I'm Dead, Ray chatted with her guest, The Biggest Loser star Bob Harper, and shared why she had decided not to start a family. The topic came about as they were talking about how to reach your goals and who to surround yourself with. The pair both shared that they loved animals, and that it's about 'surrounding yourself with that love and support.' 'I chose to never have children,' Harper said. 'God love all the people that have kids.' 'Me too! And boy did I get bashed for it over the decades,' Ray responded with a laugh. Harper admitted that he was 'safe' from backlash, as he grew up in a time where many queer people did not have children, as opposed to today, when many members of the LGBTQ+ community are parents. Rachael even hinted at her sex life with John and said she's 'a very lucky lady' Rachael, pictured here with John in February last year, recently admitted that they have 'huge screaming matches all the time' However, Harper was firm in his decision not to have kids. 'I put all of that kind of unconditional love into my dogs, and what my dogs teach me on a daily basis is that unconditional love,' he said, to which Ray agreed and said: 'Right?' 'They never talk back, they always want to hug you, I've seen you with your dogs, I've known you a long time, and it's just such a beautiful circle of love to see you with them,' she added, explaining that it brings him a 'ray of light.' Ray also shared that when she's having a bad day or going through a hard time, there's nothing else that makes her feel better besides climbing into bed with her dog. One doctor took to TikTok to reveal a shocking predictor that people will look younger as they age. Dr. Sana, a practicing family physician based in Germany, told her followers that if they struggle with acne, that's actually a major positive in the long run. 'When I tell my patients that having a history of acne is a predictor of better aging and fewer wrinkles,' she wrote on top of the video, as a shocked sound that said 'Shut up, it is not!' in the background. In the caption, the German doctor explained that the connection between acne and delayed aging is not a new finding, with research to back it up. 'People with a history of acne tend to have longer telomeres in their white blood cells,' Dr. Sana said. The doctor explained that telomeres are protective caps at the ends of chromosomes. Their length is associated with cellular aging, with longer telomeres indicating younger, healthier cells. After Dr. Sana shared the video in December, more than 900 commenters quickly weighed in with their own experiences. Dr. Sana, a practicing family physician based in Germany, told her followers that if they struggle with acne, that's actually a plus in the long run Many commenters agreed, and said while they struggled with acne in their teens, they were happy to have more youthful skin now Many commenters agreed, and said while they struggled with acne in their teens, they were happy to have more youthful skin now. However, some still dealt with the skin condition as adults. 'They told me that when I was 14 and I didn't care now at 40 I love my skin,' a commenter rejoiced. 'I had horrible acne. Turning 50, no signs of wrinkles yet,' another wrote. 'I suffered with acne, I used to cry myself to sleep over it. My friend's mum told me that when I was older I wouldn't have wrinkles because of my natural oily skin. She was right,' one person chimed in. Some dealt with both, as one woman commented, 'I'm 35 and still have acne. I look a lot younger but the acne could stop now.' Another agreed, 'I'm 43, it can stop at any time now.' Some commenters didn't see the benefits, especially if they were left with scars from dealing with acne. 'They told me that when I was 14 and I didn't carenow at 40 I love my skin,' a commenter rejoiced (stock photo) 'Yeah instead of wrinkles we have scars,' one wrote. Others thought aging more slowly was simply due to having oilier skin. Oftentimes, oily skin can lead to hormonal acne, which is linked to the overproduction of sebum. Sebum is an oily substance present in skin glands, which clogs pores and leads to pimples. The oiliness could have major benefits later in life, as people who dealt with acne in their teens don't show signs of aging and avoid the same wrinkles their peers have. When they began their journey as a drag queen, The Vivienne turned to a British fashion icon for inspiration. The RuPaul's Drag Race UK legend, who died suddenly aged 32, previously revealed their stage name was a tribute to legendary fashion designer Vivienne Westwood. James Lee Williams, better known as The Viviene, won the first series of the UK version of the drag contest in 2019, before returning for the US All Stars Winners season in 2022. When asked about the meaning of their stage name, The Vivienne told the BBC it had everything to do with his love for Westwood's creations. The iconic Scouse drag queen said: 'I love Vivienne Westwood and, when I moved to Liverpool, everyone used to call me Vivienne as I was head to toe in Westwood, so when I started doing drag it was a natural progression, They added: 'I didnt want one of those cheap, nasty, sl***y drag names so I thought of "The Vivienne" and here she is, theres only one of them.' On Sunday, their publicist Simon Jones confirmed Williams 'passed this weekend' in an Instagram statement, as tributes poured in for the star on social media. Jones wrote: 'It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams - The Vivienne, has passed this weekend. The RuPaul 's Drag Race UK legend, who died suddenly aged 32, previously revealed their stage name was a tribute to legendary fashion designer Vivienne Westwood On Sunday, their publicist Simon Jones confirmed The Vivienne 'passed this weekend' in an Instagram statement, as tributes poured in for the star on social media 'James was an incredibly loved, warmhearted and amazing person. Their family are heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother and uncle. 'They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career. We will not be releasing any further details. 'We please ask that James's family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.' He continued: 'These are words I never ever wanted to write. Viv was a close friend, a client and someone I loved very much. 'From the moment I met them in 2019 I knew we could create magic together and I became their manager. Their talent was immense and the light they brought to every room was astonishing. No one has ever made me laugh as much in my life as Viv did. Their comic genius and quick wit was like no other. 'I'm so proud and lucky that Viv was such a big part of my life everyday for the last five years. It's tragic that their career was only just beginning. In musical theatre Viv had found a space and career they loved, excelled and thrived in. 'I am heartbroken and devastated at this news. RIP my wonderful friend. You left us way too soon.' Police have confirmed The Vivienne's 'sudden' passing is not being treated as suspicious, with a cause of death still awaited. Confirming the news on Instagram, Simon Jones PR wrote: 'It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams - The Vivienne, has passed this weekend In the wake of Williams' death, Wicked star Grande and RuPaul's Drag Race judge Michelle Visage honoured The Vivienne's legacy in heartfelt social media posts. 'You were a beacon to so many,' Visage's emotional message read. 'I'm the lucky one to have known you and to have laughed together with you so many times.' Grande reshared drag performer Jinkx Monsoon's tribute post on her Instagram Stories along with three heart emojis. Jinkx Monsoon's message read: 'I don't entirely have words. 'She has made her mark in our hearts and on her stages. It's too soon for a curtain call, but I know it's a standing ovation. 'I love you, Viv.' TV presenters Rylan Clark and Lorraine Kelly, Perrie Edwards, soap stars Antony Cotton and Lisa Riley were among those who remembered The Vivienne, after Jones confirmed Williams' death. After winning the inaugural season of RuPaul's Drag Race UK, The Vivienne went on to host an online chat show where celebrities joined her to chat about series' of the show, before they ventured in musical theatre. Meanwhile Drag Race judge Michelle Visage shared snaps of her and The Vivienne together on Instagram with the caption: 'Heartbreaking. I dont know how to say how I feel Recently, the performer hosted a Christmas party show on BBC Radio Wales. Just days before their death, they took to Instagram to urge fans to donate to LGBTQ+ and HIV charity SAHIR. Encouraging others to give 1 a month, they wrote: 'Join me in giving back this year, everything I do charitable wise is usually for @sahirhouse house, Liverpools oldest LGBT+ charity!!! 'The work they do is incredible, thank you. 1 a month you won't miss it.' The drag artist's shock death came just days after they said when they meet strangers they hope they 'love gay people' as they spoke in a victim impact statement. The comments came after magistrates last month ruled a one-punch attack by scaffolder Alan Whitfield on The Vivienne was a hate crime. The Vivienne, who won the first series of RuPaul's Drag Race UK and came third in last year's Dancing On Ice, was targeted at the restaurant in Edge Lane on June 16 last year. They were subjected to a 'barrage of abuse' from the defendant who then struck him to the left side of the face with a 'heavy blow'. Their face was bruised and hurt for a week but The Vivienne said 'luckily' they were a 6ft ex-rugby player who could take a punch, Liverpool Magistrates' Court was told. The Vivienne photographed at RuPaul's DragCon UK 2020 at Olympia London on January 18 James Lee Williams, better known by their stage name, won the first series of the UK version of the drag contest in 2019, before returning for the US All Stars Winners season in 2022 In a victim personal statement read to the court on Wednesday, The Vivienne said: 'As a proud gay man, I have never hidden who I am or edited myself. 'It shames me to say at the age of 31, I am now a lot more conscious that I could be attacked at any moment simply for living my life. 'This has caused me stress, anguish and ongoing trauma.' Last year, they made history as they became the first drag queen to perform on Dancing On Ice, with viewers branding The Vivienne a 'superstar'. The Vivienne and her pro partner Colin Grafton were thrilled as they scored a total of 28.5 out of 40, with Ashley, Oti and Jayne scoring her 7, while Chris gave a 7.5. Oti praised The Vivienne's first performance: 'If you are going to make history, this is how you make history congratulations!' A handwritten letter from Diana, Princess of Wales - revealing the sweet relationship between Prince William and Harry during their childhoods - has fetched nearly ten times its estimated worth at auction. The note, addressed to the late royal's parents' housekeeper Violet Collison (affectionately known as Collie by the princess), went under the hammer in July by Sworders Fine Art Auctioneers and was originally predicted to sell for 1,200. The sweet message, which showed moving insights into the relationship between the boys, including that the Prince of Wales 'adored' his brother, sold for a staggering 10,000. 'A handwritten two-page letter dated September 25th 1984, on crowned "D" Kensington Palace notepaper, to "Collie" thanking her for Prince Harry's first Christmas present,' the description from auctioneers read. Violet was head housekeeper to John Spencer and Frances Roche at Park House on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, where Diana spent her childhood years. She noted that 'William adores his little brother & spends the entire time pouring an endless supply of hugs & kisses over Harry'. Diana joked that the display was 'wonderful to watch, if we're allowed near!' demonstrating the inseparable bond between the two young royals. The depiction of a tactile and loving relationship between William and his baby brother is a far cry from their famously frosty connection these days. A letter written by Diana, Princess of Wales, revealing that a young Prince William adored Prince Harry (pictured) fetched nearly ten times its estimated worth at auction In his book, Spare, Harry went as far to call William his 'archnemesis', said they have always 'competed' and detailed physical altercations between the pair. It is believed the trigger that caused the rift to develop between William and Harry was when the then Duke of Cambridge advised his younger sibling to 'take things slow' when he first began dating Meghan Markle in 2017. Relations became so sour that they reportedly didn't talk for weeks after Harry's wedding, where William was best man. Harry and Meghan's decision to step down as senior royals in 2020 - informally known as Megxit - and the way it was handled, reportedly left William and Charles devastated. In the documentary - Harry & Meghan: An African Journey - the Duke of Sussex admitted he and William are 'certainly on different paths at the moment'. He told ITV's Tom Bradby: 'Inevitably stuff happens. But we're brothers, we'll always be brothers.' Diana said the sweet display was 'wonderful to watch, if we're allowed near!' Pictured: Notes sold at auction In a letter written to her parents' housekeeper Violet Collison and dated from September 25, 1984, Diana writes: 'William adores his little brother and spends the entire time pouring an endless supply of hugs & kisses over Harry' It's a far cry from the relationship between the two princes these days, which has famously become frosty (pictured in 2021) Violet Collison, affectionately known as 'Collie', worked for John Spencer and Frances Roche at Park House on the Sandringham Estate and witnessed the future Princess of Wales (pictured) birth Another letter was dated just three weeks before the wedding between Diana and Charles in 1981 A source previously told People that the brothers' relationship is 'forever changed' and they 'won't get back to the way they were'. Harry is looking straight ahead at his future with his family,' they added. Diana's correspondence, which was auctioned by Sworders in Stansted Mountfitchet in Essex, revealed that Collie remained in Diana's thoughts throughout her life. Most of the letters to Collie are thank-you notes for birthday and Christmas presents given to Diana and her children, William and Harry. These notes often include a line or two about Diana's life at the time. One double-sided letter in the collection - penned on Buckingham Palace headed notepaper and dated just three weeks before Charles and Diana's wedding - was expected to fetch 1,200. 'Everyone frantically busy here doing last minute decorations on the house and things like that,' it reads. 'Family all far too excited and, at the moment, the bride to be has remained quite calm!' Another sweet letter sees the late Princess thanking Collie for gifts sent to her young sons. Most of the letters to Collie are thank-you notes for birthday and Christmas presents given to Diana and her children It said: 'William found the parcels and dived into the paper before I could stop him.' That letter is on Kensington Palace paper with a 'CD' logo for Charles and Diana - and also has an estimate of 1,200. After the marriage of Diana's parents ended, Collie followed Diana's mother to London in 1967, working for her and her new husband until her retirement in 1973. Collie died in 2013 at the age of 89. Luke Macdonald, head of art and estates at Sworders, said: 'Violet Collison, Collie, was Diana's parents' housekeeper when they lived at Park House. She knew Diana from when she was born and remained a constant in her life. 'At all points she would try to return to see Collie. When she stayed at Sandringham she would escape to see Collie without her security.' He expressed that they offer a 'lovely chapter in the history of Diana'. 'She was one of her closest confidantes,' Luke continued. 'They give a nice insight - before the wedding she describes everyone being frantically busy but the bride-to-be staying calm and there are letters about William and Harry that are really sweet. 'Collie died in 2013 and the family has decided now is the time to sell them as they are just living in a box and not being enjoyed, there are too many family members to divide them up. The 'once unbreakable' bond between Prince William and Prince Harry has suffered a 'devastating breakdown' Relations became so sour that they reportedly didn't talk for weeks after Harry's wedding, where William was best man 'They have spoken to Diana's sisters to make sure they were okay with them selling. 'What is special about these is they tell a story, they are not just somebody's collection. From the first Christmas card to the last, they are a complete story of her friendship and relationship with Diana. 'Everyone wants a little part of Diana, she connected with people and was very much the people's princess.' The collection of more than a dozen letters and cards sold as part of the Out of the Ordinary Sale on July 30. An Alabama cheerleader won Miss America - and urged America's young adults to get back to work. Abbie Stockard, 22, won big at the 97th annual pageant on Sunday at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando, Florida, beating 51 other hopefuls for the ultimate pageant crown. Abbie was asked about employment by the judges, and discussed young people having difficulty getting jobs after the Covid pandemic. The beauty queen said, 'I believe we need to encourage those [people] to join the workforce.' She also urged them to 'adapt to new skills and learn to grow in our current workforce and industries we have today.' Abbie was reacting to people in the labor force between 25 and 54 who have had trouble finding work. People thought the Auburn University cheerleader was alluding to vocational training. Research from a scientific paper titled 'Where Are the Missing Workers' examined what was causing worker shortages across the country. An Alabama cheerleader won Miss America - and urged America's young adults to get back to work when asked about employment Abbie Stockard, 22, won big at the 97th annual pageant on Sunday at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando, Florida, beating hopefuls for the ultimate pageant crown Abbie was asked about employment by the judges, and discussed young people having difficulty getting jobs after the Covid pandemic Abbie is studying to become a nurse and is also a member of the nationally ranked Tiger Paws Dance Team. She wants to earn a PhD in anesthesia and specialize in pediatrics. The 22-year-old said that she was inspired by her mom, who juggled several jobs, and her friend, who has cystic fibrosis. While some people applauded her answer, on Reddit, others thought that the contestants avoided saying anything too controversial during the hot topic section. 'I mean, what is the point of these hot topics if these girls are just going to avoid answering the topic and talk about their platforms that have nothing to do with the topic? Seems a waste of time for everyone involved,' one person asked. 'Alabama was so forgettable,' another Reddit user wrote about her time in the pageant. After she was crowned, winning the $50,000 tuition scholarship prize, social media users erupted, complaining that the show had 'low end production' and looked like it was 'filmed with an iPhone.' Other viewers called the contest, which was not aired on live television, 'awkward' and 'cringeworthy.' Abbie is studying to become a nurse and is also a member of the nationally ranked Tiger Paws Dance Team The 22-year-old said that she was inspired by her mom, who juggled several jobs, and her friend, who has cystic fibrosis The competition was streamed on YouTube and PageantVision.com, even though it was previously shown on NBC, ABC and Peacock 'Miss America used to be a prime TV event,' one disgruntled viewer announced before complaining, 'Now I have to search through YouTube to find it.' The competition was streamed on YouTube and PageantVision.com, even though it was previously shown on NBC, ABC and Peacock. Viewers could watch preliminary competitions with a $99.99 week-long streaming pass or by buying the episodes individually. The final was streamed for free and the YouTube stream ran a day after the program aired. Marks and Spencer has left shoppers in hysterics with its new range of confectionery for Valentine's Day - which contains some unusually phallic items. Planning well ahead for the annual day of love, the British retailer has released a brand new range of amorous chocolates - a selection which has left innuendo-loving social media users hysterics. The supermarket has unveiled a handful of chocolate treats, two of which have caught the attention of shoppers for their 'naughty' and suggestive designs. A new milk chocolate Love Struck arrow has attracted the most attention online, with hundreds of shoppers humoured by its suggestive design. One described the design, which features a long arrow with a red love heart tip, as being 'solid' and 'creamy', pointing out its subtle phallic shape. Revealing the new line of serenading sweets, the Facebook page Food Finds UK Official, released pictures of the chocolate, amassing thousands of comments from humoured - and some horrified - shoppers. One customer wrote: 'This is not just any love arrow... this is an M&S solid, creamy love arrow with red decoration,' making a jibe at the retailer's famous tagline. Another joked: 'Have the Ann sSummers chocolate designers got jobs at M&S now?' British retailer M&S has just released a brand new range of amorous chocolates - a selection which has left innuendo loving social media users hysterics (Love Struck chocolate arrow pictured) Others remarked that the chocolate designers 'knew what they were doing', while some, unimpressed by smutty creation, were far less amused. One displeased shopper remarked: 'Think their buying department needs to take a good look at themselves!' Meanwhile, another chocolate treat in the supermarket's Valentine's Day range, has also attracted attention over its perceived smutty appearance. The butterscotch flavoured chocolate bar shaped as a banana costs 3.75 - and it has also captured the attention of shoppers. The chocolate bar, also featuring 'solid creamy milk chocolate', contains butterscotch pieces and is shaped as a half peeled banana seductively laying with one hand on their hip and the other beneath their chin. Baffled by the sultry design, one customer joked: 'Id like to know who came up with these in M&S product development.' A second said: 'A winking banana. A bit of M and S smut for for Valentines Day,' while a third wrote 'look at M&S getting their kink on'. A butterscotch flavoured chocolate bar shaped as a banana costing 3.75, has also sparked a flurry of commentary from curious customers (pictured) Others remarked that the chocolate designers 'knew what they were doing', while some, unimpressed by smutty creation were far less amused Others joked that they couldn't wait to see the romantic range offered by Aldi, the budget supermarket famed for its quirky takes on popular products from the high street. Some commenters recalled former mischievous Valentine's Day releases including chocolate emoji fruits and a 'love sausage' in their savoury range. Last year, M&S revealed an array of fruit and vegetable shaped chocolate shells. The supermarket cheekily announced one aubergine emoji shaped chocolate - commonly associated with phallic imagery - and a second peach emoji chocolate product, often used to represent the bottom. In 2020, the luxury supermarket unveiled their 458g heart-shape pork sausage infused with truffle, for the second year in a row, delighting customers with the innuendo famed product. Customers flocked to the supermarket when the product was first released in 2019 and the tasty pork product followed through in amassing the same attention the following year, with the retailer also releasing mini 'Give a Little Love' Sausage to keep up surging with demand. Alongside it's romantic range, the supermarket have also recently released their Easter range, ahead of the big day in April. Adding to their seasonal chocolate range, M&S have released a brand new Outrageously Chocolatey Custard Cream Biscuity Easter Egg - featuring a giant milk chocolate sculpture shaped into a custard cream with biscuit pieces inside the shell. Also in the range are new Pistachio Rolled Eggs, which are filled with smooth pistachio creme and then rolled in roasted chopped nuts. Marks and Spencer's have delighted shoppers by bringing back its famed 'love sausage' for Valentine's Day The supermarket has also added a wide range of chocolate creations in the shape of animals - with a Charlie Bunny, Lucy Lamb and Daisy Cow among them. Commenting on the suggestive new range of romantic chocs, a spokesperson for M&S said: 'This Valentines weve got a great range of gifts for all, from exquisite and luxurious to a bit of fun (yes, the puns are deliberate!) 'Whatever the product, we lead on quality, because when we say this is not just food, this is M&S Food, we really mean it.' Kmart Australia has released a fashionable shirt that looks similar to styles retailing for $120. The Short Sleeve V-Neck Tie Front Top has been compared to the Dissh Emelia White Linen Wrap Shirt, which costs $119.99. One shopper behind the popular page Kmart Insider spotted the 'dupe' and raved about it online. 'Kmart preparing us for resort life with this new linen blend top that looks just like Dissh!' the Instagram caption read. Both short sleeve shirts feature a tie-up front, drop shoulder and v-neck design that's perfect to wear to the office or the beach. However, the Dishh version is made from 100 per cent linen while the Kmart alternative is made from a blend of linen and viscose. The relaxed fit is stylish, trendy and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. The Kmart top is also so popular it's sold out online. The Short Sleeve V-Neck Tie Front Top from Kmart Australia (left) has been compared to the Dissh Emelia White Linen Wrap Shirt, which costs $119.99 (right) The 'cute' Kmart version is ideal for those on a budget and was praised by dozes online. 'Need this!' one commented. 'I'm running to Kmart!' another said. 'Omg what a pretty top,' a third added. 'Definitely looking for this next time Im in store,' someone else said. Last month a Kmart bag was flying off the shelves after shoppers discovered the bargain accessory was an affordable 'dupe' to a popular travel buy. The PU Weekender Bag ($49) has been compared to the Metro Weekender ($440) from travel brand Monos. Both bags come with a hidden compartment at the bottom so you can store dirty laundry, shoes and even wet clothes. Kmart's $49 weekender bag (left) has been compared to $440 travel bag from Monos (right) The cheaper bag is available in polyurethane while the pricier version comes in multiple materials including vegan leather and nylon. 'It's the perfect travel bag,' one five-star reviewer said. 'I used it recently on a long haul flight. It sat well on top of the carry-on suitcase and fit everything I needed for my two kids. Also has enough pockets to keep the small things close.' Another wrote: 'Great lightweight tote that fits everything you need.' One shopper shared her rave reviews on Kmart's item, claiming it's 'better' than celebrity-loved brand BEIS's best-selling Weekender bags, with prices ranging between $98 to $348. 'Good quality bag for travelling. Flexible so it easily fits under the plane seat. The bottom section is waterproof,' one added. Described as the 'perfect' travel bag, the $49 item has received rave reviews on social media, with some shoppers sharing its many uses as well. 'I used it as my hospital baby bag,' a new mum revealed. 'The weekender bag from Kmart makes the best baby bag for short trips,' another shared. 'I use the bottom shoe area for nappies, and the top section has lots of zips.' 'I have one and it's perfect for the gym,' one said. 'My kids have these fantastic bags for camping,' another added. 'Shoes and dirty stuff all fit nicely into the bottom so everything else stays clean and dry.' One of the key features of the bag is the hidden pocket, situated at the bottom of the bag, which is perfect for storing dirty shoes and laundry (left: Kmart; Monos: right) Fashion trends can change in the blink of an eye, and shoppers have struggled to keep up with the latest go-to buys in the wake of the cost of living crisis. Thrifty shoppers have been looking for affordable alternatives for their favourite brands - and one place they can't get enough of is Kmart. The budget retailer has been selling 'dupes' - including a $25 item that looks similar to a popular $190 'dream dress' from a top Australian brand. Other popular 'dupes' include a $15 Kmart version of a $20,000 Hermes bag that Aussie women are loving, along with a $25 light cardigan that fits into the viral 'old money' aesthetic. Susan Weiss Liebman spent years searching for the minute genetic mutation lurking in her familys DNA that had been causing unexplained abrupt deaths for generations. Her investigation, detailed in her new book The Dressmakers Mirror, started with the sudden - and unexplainable - death of her niece Karen. Dr Susan Weiss Leibman's book is simultaneously a memoir, an exploration of genomics, and a mystery, as she tries to piece together the root cause of untimely deaths plaguing her family Karen was 36, otherwise healthy, and pregnant when she collapsed at a restaurant in Brooklyn in 2008 due to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a condition that causes the heart to become weak, enlarged, and unable to pump blood effectively. This was the same condition Karen's mother Diane had been dealing with for years. It was genetic, but no one would learn that for nearly a decade. Dr Liebman writes: 'This meant that Dianes illness was genetic and wasnt a complication of a viral infection, as doctors formerly assumed. Instead, Diane transmitted a deadly gene to Karen.' 'We had to find the mutation before Gods cruel game of Russian roulette picked off more members of the family.' The tragedy, nearly a year after her father's sudden fatal heart attack at 66, prompted the 78-year-old to use her expertise as a geneticist to find an answer. She pored over research and corresponded with experts in the field about the latest discoveries in the variations of human DNA that make a person who they are. Dr Liebman soon learned many members of her family had inherited a potentially lethal gene mutation responsible for making a protein crucial for maintaining the function and structure of muscle cells, including those that make up the heart. Dr Susan Weiss Liebman's new book The Dressmakers Mirror, is both a memoir and genetic exploration, tracing generations of her family marked by sudden deaths When Dr Liebman was a child, she heard the story of the untimely death of her father's brother, Eugene. Eugene was just four years old when he was crushed to death by a falling mirror in 1916. Family members tried to lift the mirror off him, but it was too late and the story haunted Dr Liebman for decades - until she learned it was a lie. The four-year-olds death certificate said nothing of an accident, a mirror, or being crushed. In reality, the child had died of congestive heart failure following a five-day hospital stay. The death wasn't a freak accident. He had inherited a killer gene that later took Dr Liebmans grandmother, father and niece, among others in her family tree. Her father never knew the familys grim secret and she didn't learn the truth until she had already been an accomplished geneticist for three decades. She said: 'I had always considered genetics in terms of my career. I studied it as an undergraduate at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and a graduate student and postdoctoral fellow at Harvard and the University of Rochester. 'I understood that genetics determined my eye and hair color, my handedness, and other traits, but I never thought that it would have a significant impact on my actual life. Now that all changed.' Dr Liebman's niece Karen is pictured with her husband Andrew. The couple is showing off Karen's baby bump just one day before her freak deadly heart attack The hunt for the culprit took years and several rounds of tests of Dr Liebman's and her sister Diane's DNA. With each test, they came out with no answers. There were no red flags or clues. It wasn't until Diane passed away in 2016 at 73 of heart failure that the puzzle pieces began to fall into place. Genomics is constantly evolving. With advances in technology come more effective ways of exploring genes in greater detail and identifying previously unknown genes or gene variants. The sisters had provided blood samples to geneticists now working at Northwestern University before Diane's death. When Dr Liebman reached out to them asking about the potential genetic link to her condition, Northwestern cardiologist Dr Beth McNally delivered the news that scientists had found a gene variation in Diane's DNA that had previously never been linked to cardiomyopathy - but it could be the answer now. Dr McNally said at the time of the discovery that Diane's gene was the only one that had been linked to cardiomyopathy. But, as years went on and more reports potentially linked the gene and the disease, it 'makes it more likely that this may be a real association.' Dr Liebman and her family are Jewish, a population at a higher risk for having the mutation that makes them more prone to fatal cardiac conditions. Pictured is Dr Liebman's father [left] who died when he was 66 of a heart attack, next to his brother Cyrus. Their father David sits on the far right. He died at 41 I recently completed a small research study that asked if the mutation in my family is a major cause of DCM among Ashkenazi Jews. Our results suggest it is,' Dr Liebman said. The mutation changed a crucial section of DNA. In some cases, Dr Liebman explained, this can lead to a premature stop in the production of a certain protein, which can contribute to potentially deadly heart diseases like DCM. When she learned of the faulty gene, which she believes was passed down through her fathers side, she alerted everyone in her family. She said: I contacted all first and second cousins who, respectively, had a 12 percent and 6 percent chance of having the mutation. Those who knew of my niece Karens death were at once interested. Those whom I didnt know and didnt know Karen were sometimes skeptical about the relevance of my information and at first thought I might be part of a scam. Dr Liebman also found out that neither she nor her children carried this deadly gene mutation - meaning they could no longer pass the gene on to future generations. Finally, Dr Liebman thought, they had an answer for the untimely deaths that had plagued her family for generations. Finally, they could know for sure whether future generations of their family faced similar fates. DCM does not have to be fatal. It can be managed with proper heart-healthy lifestyle factors, regular checkups, echocardiograms, and medications such as beta-blockers. Dr Liebman is pictured with her husband Alan at their wedding reception in 1969 Your browser does not support iframes. In her genetic exploration, Dr Liebman was made to reconcile her ancestral faith with the tragedies that had befallen them. Dr Michael Arad of Tel Aviv University, whose team had identified 23 mutations in the new faulty gene, told her the families he had seen with the mutation were of Ashkenazi Jewish descent just like Dr Liebman and her family, making it a Founder gene - a gene in the DNA of a small ancestral population that is passed down to a large number of offspring. His research found some people who died suddenly had shown no signs of imminent death on echocardiograms, the standard method for gauging the hearts electrical activity. All Ashkenazi Jews descend from a small population of less than 500 people in Eastern Europe whose genetic origins were equally split between Europe and the Levant, which today covers parts of Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Israel, Palestine, and parts of Turkey and Iraq. Remarkably, she said, the mutation in my family occurred in one out of 800 Ashkenazi Jews but was not present in the other ethnic populations. As the small population reproduced with each other, the faulty gene mutation spread in their offspring. While once confused as to why the family would lie about Eugene's death more than a century ago, Dr Liebman now understands his mother hid the truth because she didn't want her sons to be ostracized and without marriage prospects due to the known risk of passing along their condition. Dr Liebman wrote: Marions imaginary shattered mirror and the resulting broken glass shards embody her perceptive fears for her familys future. 'Marion's fears for her family proved prophetic, as premature deaths plagued her descendants, including her own at 59, her mother at 47, her son at 66, and later generations suffering from heart-related conditions. 'Despite Marions premonition, there was nothing she could do. The lack of autopsies for Marion and her son obscured the genetic connection to DCM, which might have saved future lives through earlier awareness and treatment. Dr Liebman continued: 'Grandma Marion modeled for us how to deal with loss by choosing life in response to heartbreak. 'What she couldnt have known was that we would learn the cause of all the deaths, and that this would allow genetic testing and early treatment to end the family curse.' As cold weather is set to grip the east coast of America, doctors have warned men that they may be about to suffer difficulties in the bedroom. A weather-related affliction known as 'winter penis' is caused by a sharp drop in temperature, which causes male genitals to shrink as a result of restricted blood flow to the area. Not only does this lead to a size reduction of up to 50 per cent, the reduced blood flow to the area can make it more challenging for a man to maintain an erection. Dr Saransh Jain, a world renowned sexologist based out of India, explained that the problem happens because 'when it's cold out, your body limits blood flow to extremities like fingers, toes, and yes - your penis to retain heat in your vital organs'. He said this reaction is known as vasoconstriction, and it causes your blood vessels constrict, which limits blood flow to your penis. When 'winter penis' takes hold, Dr Jain reveals that 'the shaft of the penis and testicles move closer to the body to maintain the optimal temperature for sperm production' and this is an evolutionary mechanism to protect sperm and testes. While most men who experience 'winter penis' will find it only occurs briefly and occasionally, it can be far worse for those with underlying erectile dysfunction (ED). Some 30 million men in the US are thought to suffer with erectile dysfunction, according to the NIH. 'Winter penis' the name given for the phenomenon where men's genitals shrink in in the colder seasons The experts say men who already suffer from ED could find their condition more difficult to manage, when weather begins to deteriorate. Winter penis also has a simple fix: once you warm up the size of the organ will return to normal, as body stops adapting to better survive the cold. 'The effects are only temporary and do not cause any long-term changes,' Dr Jain says of the condition. To help combat 'winter penis,' the medic suggests wearing insulated underwear and pants, limiting time in frigid temperatures where possible and keeping hydrated as 'dehydration exacerbates the effects of vasoconstriction'. However, experts warn that just because winter penis exists men shouldn't dismiss consistent changes to the size and function of their penis. They advice any man experiencing a longer term change in the shape of their genitals, including the testes, or the blood flow to their member to seek advice from their health provider as a precaution. Dr Jain says on the matter: 'Don't be embarrassed to discuss penis health and any changes you've noticed with your doctor. 'Early diagnosis and treatment of underlying conditions is key to preventing permanent damage and supporting your long term sexual and penile health.' Additionally, any man suffering from ED should seek out help as range of treatments and medications can help address the problem. This is important because not only is sexual function a key aspect of people's wellbeing, but ED can also sometimes be an indicator of serious health problems like cardiovascular disease. Winter penis shouldn't be confused with frostbite, a serious medical condition where tissue is exposed to extremely cold temperatures. With frostbite the affected area begins to feel cold and painful as blood withdraws from the area to protect internal body temperature. If exposure to cold continues, the sensation of pins and needles can happen before the area finally numbs over as tissue freezes, damaging it. In extreme cases the tissue can be lost as a result, requiring amputation. Frostbite of the penis is rare compared to other parts of the body such as the ears or fingers as the genitals are more likely to be wrapped in clothing if someone is caught outdoors. The Mayo Clinic says those who suffer frostbite - most commonly winter climbers, cross-country skiers and the homeless - should be taken to a warm environment urgently and protect the injured area from further damage. Dr Jain says other factors that can temporarily cause male genitals to appear smaller include aging, weight gain, and stress and anxiety. On his last point he explains: 'Feeling stressed or anxious causes changes in your body that can affect penis size. 'High stress levels increase cortisol, the stress hormone, which, in turn, decreases testosterone, the sex hormone responsible for libido and erections. 'Less testosterone means less blood flow to the penis, resulting in a smaller size.' British cardiac patients will soon be fitted with heart valves that grow naturally within the body, marking a significant advance in treating heart disease. An initial group of over 50 patients is set to receive temporary valves made of fibres which will act as scaffoling that canimplanted, integrate with the bodys cells. Over time, the scaffolds dissolve, leaving behind a living valve composed entirely of the patients own tissue. When heart valves become diseased, they may stiffen, or become leaky, increasing the risk of heart failure, stroke, or heart attacks. Existing valve replacement options for patients have major drawbacks. Valves taken from cows, pigs or human tissue and implanted in the patient only last a decade or so and can still be rejected by the bodys immune system. Mechanical valves require patients to take medicine for their entire lives. Current treatments are extremely challenging for children born with heart defects, as the valves do not grow along with their bodies and must be replaced several times before they reach adulthood. But the new valves can grow as the child grows as they become one with the patients body. The project is being led by Professor Sir Magdi Yacoub (pictured), a renowned cardiac surgeon An initial group of over 50 patients is set to receive temporary valves made of fibres which will act as scaffoling that canimplanted, integrate with the bodys cells The UK's first heart-lung transplan was carried out at Harefield Hospital in northwest London (pictured) by Professor Yacoub The project is being led by Professor Sir Magdi Yacoub, a renowned cardiac surgeon now in his 80s who carried out the UKs first heart-lung transplant at Harefield Hospital in northwest London. Every year, approximately 13,000 heart valve replacements are performed in England and 300,000 worldwide - and the numbers are growing each year. The new living valve could transform these patients lives by eliminating the need for repeated surgeries and reducing the risk of rejection. Dr Yacoub told the Sunday Times: I always say nature is the greatest technology. It is so superior to anything we can make. Once something is living - whether thats a cell, tissue, or [the living valve] - it adapts on its own. Biology is like magic. Research published in Nature Communications Biology showed promising results in sheep. Within just four weeks of implantation, over 20 types of cells - including nerve and fatty tissue - were found in the correct locations, mimicking a natural heart valve. Unlike previous attempts, this project, led by Heart Biotech at Harefield Hospital, has successfully encouraged the growth of nerve cells in the valve. Within six months, the structure becomes entirely composed of living cells from the patient, and by one to two years, the scaffold dissolves, leaving behind a fully functional heart valve that grows with the patient throughout their life. Research published in Nature Communications Biology showed promising results in sheep Pictured: Aortic valve illustration Human trials involving between 50-100 patients, including children, are set to begin in 18 months. The trials will compare the new living valve with conventional artificial valves and involve an international team of experts from institutions like University College London, Great Ormond Street Hospital, and medical centers in New York, Italy, and the Netherlands. Dr. Sonya Babu-Narayan, associate medical director of the British Heart Foundation, hailed the development as the holy grail for heart valve surgery. She said: It is early days, but if further research shows the approach is successful in humans, many people around the world could live well for longer without the need for repeated heart valve procedures. Brits must stay alert to the hidden symptoms of a potentially dangerous flu-like virus that has already caused chaos in China, experts warned today. Cases of the infection human metapneumovirus (HMPV) have surged across northern Chinese provinces in recent days, mainly among children. And MailOnline can reveal that the bug, which can prove fatal in the most vulnerable, is already on British shores - and rising in prevalence. Latest UK data shows cases of the virus - responsible for packed hospital waiting rooms in China and eerily similar to the early days of Covid - have seen a 'marked increase' in recent weeks - slightly higher than at the same time last year. UK cases of HMPV first emerged in 2001, with roughly just four cases per week detected by PCR tests in winter, on average. But experts have today cautioned that a hidden rise may be underway, as the virus can lurk in the body for days before causing tell-tale symptoms, leaving people to spread it unknowingly. However, they warned that the spike in cases 'should not cause undue concern'. HMPV typically causes symptoms similar to the common cold, including a cough, runny nose or nasal congestion, a sore throat and fever that clear after around five days. The above is a grab from a video posted online claiming to show an overwhelmed hospital unit in China Experts have cautioned that the virus, which produces flu-like symptoms, can lurk in the body for days and so it can be easily passed on to others The graph shows the proportion of visits to hospital for flu-like illness in northern provinces in China by week. The red line is for 2024-2025 flu season, and shows levels are at their highest since 2021 But more severe symptoms such as bronchitis, bronchiolitis and pneumonia can occur, with sufferers experiencing a shortness of breath, severe cough or wheezing. Experts urged Brits to be cautious of flu-like symptoms over fears it could actually be HMPV. Professor John Tregoning, an expert in vaccine immunology at Imperial College London, says that it has very similar symptoms - in children at least - to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. 'It is part of the cocktail of winter viruses that we are exposed to and, like other viruses, it will transmit in coughs, sneezes and in droplets. 'Protecting yourself by being in well-ventilated spaces, covering your mouth when you cough and washing your hands will all help,' said Professor Tregoning Similar to the advice related to Covid and RSV, those infected must 'rest, stay hydrated and try not to spread it to others', he added. 'If you do feel very unwell, go to your GP. As it is a virus, antibiotics wont have any effect.' Unlike Covid, there is no vaccine yet or specific antiviral treatment for HMPV and treatment primarily involves managing symptoms. Latest UK data shows cases of the virus have seen a 'marked increase' in recent weeks - slightly higher than at the same time last year The above are clips from videos claiming to show overwhelmed hospitals in China Jaya Dantas, a professor of international health at Curtin University in Australia added: 'We need to use a cautious and measured approach, as we know so much more since the Covid pandemic. 'We need to get tested, stay home and away from others, wear a mask in public and protect our most vulnerable. 'In young children, the elderly and those who are immune compromised, HMPV can lead to severe cases and can move to the lower respiratory tract and may lead to pneumonia.' Other experts, however, cautioned that the rise in cases 'is not something that should cause undue concern'. Professor Jonathan Ball, a virologist at Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, added: 'HPMV has been known about since 2001, and has been circulating in humans for at least 50 years - probably a lot longer. 'Unfortunately, it is associated with pneumonia, particularly in young children, but this is thankfully rare.' Professor Paul Hunter, an expert in infectious diseases at the University of East Anglia, also told MailOnline: 'Almost every child will have at least one infection with HMPV by their fifth birthday and we can expect to go on to to have multiple reinfections throughout life. 'It is one of the leading viral causes of respiratory infections in children under five-year-olds. Your browser does not support iframes. 'In England we have seen a fairly marked increase in recent weeks.' However, he added: 'One of the issues involved in these types of infection is that they are being diagnosed more frequently, so it is not always easy to know whether, year-on-year, increases are due to actual increases or just because we are diagnosing a greater proportion of infections.' Health officials in Beijing have downplayed the developments as an annual winter occurrence. But the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention has warned that rates of multiple flu-like illnesses are on the rise. In its latest report, for the week to December 29, data suggested that 7.2 per cent of outpatient visits to local hospitals in northern provinces were due to a flu-like illness. This was up 12 per cent on the previous week, and above the levels for the same week every flu season since 2021. Data for the southern part of the country suggested that 5.7 per cent of outpatient visits were due to flu-like illness. This was up 21 per cent on the previous week, and also above the level's for the same week in 2021 when 4.1 per cent of visits were due to flu-like illness. It was, however, below the levels in 2022 and 2023. The UK itself is currently battling its own tidal wave of flu. Surveillance programmes that monitor England's outbreak suggest flu hospital admissions are quadruple that of a month ago. Figures show that more than 4,500 beds alone were taken up by flu patients every day last week, up 3.5 times on the same week last year. Of these, 211 were in critical care - up 69 per cent on the previous week. Experts also said they expect 'things to get worse before they get better' given more people have socialised indoors over the Christmas and the New Year period. A woman's breasts ballooned in size after getting her Covid vaccine in a first-of-its-kind case. The 19-year-old from Canada went from a B cup to triple G cup within six months after receiving the two-shot course. She received her first dose of the Pfizer Covid vaccine in September 2022 and her breasts started tingling and growing slightly. Both of these effects then worsened after she received her second dose of the vaccine about three weeks later. She finally went to doctors at six months when her breasts grew to such an extreme size. For comparison, the average American woman's cup size is DD. Doctors treating the woman suggested her Covid vaccine may have triggered pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia (PASH), an overgrowth of cells that usually causes benign lumps in the breasts and has only ever been seen in around 200 patients. This is the first-ever case linking PASH to a vaccine, though the experts cautioned that it cannot be proven to be the culprit. It's unclear exactly how the vaccine may have triggered the growth, but some case studies have suggested Covid vaccines may trigger an immune response leading to temporarily swollen lymph nodes, which makes breasts seem larger. Covid vaccines have not been proven to cause breast changes, though they may lead to temporary lymph node swelling (stock image) The experts, from the University of Toronto, wrote in a medical journal last month: 'This case is the first to demonstrate a temporal association between PASH-associated gigantomastia and a vaccine.' Experts have also noted that adverse reactions to Covid vaccines are extremely rare, and the benefits of getting the shot outweigh potential complications. Serious side effects impact around one in 200,000 people, according to official US data. CDC data also shows only two serious adverse effects have been well established after Covid vaccination - anaphylaxis and myocarditis or pericarditis, two types of heart damage. Your browser does not support iframes. The woman in the case study had no underlying conditions. While her breasts seemed swollen and saggy, there were no masses. An ultrasound and CT scan slightly swollen lymph nodes around the woman's armpits and dense blood vessels, which they believe was from the enlarged breast tissue. PASH is a benign breast condition found in less than 200 people worldwide since it was first described in 1986. It normally causes non-cancerous lesions breast lumps made from cells called myofibroblasts. The unnamed woman is shown above after receiving breast reduction surgery. She is considering further procedures to get back to her normal cup size However, there are only 20 known cases of PASH causing extreme breast growth, and none have previously been associated with vaccines. It's unclear how the vaccine may have triggered the woman's breast growth. In 2021, researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that Covid vaccines could lead to swollen lymph nodes, leading to abnormal findings on mammograms and breast ultrasounds. However, they cautioned that this 'is a normal reaction to the Covid vaccine, and nothing to worry about.' The experts in Toronto said further research is needed on the potential link between gigantomastia and Covid vaccines. The woman underwent a breast reduction 11 months after her initial Covid vaccine, bringing her down to a double D cup. Doctors removed 8lbs of tissue during the surgery. Though she hasn't experienced any further growth, her breasts are now asymmetrical. She is considering further surgeries to correct this and get her breasts back to their normal size. WE'RE LOOKING FOR PATIENTS WHO DEVELOPED CANCER AFTER AN ORGAN TRANSPLANT... GET IN TOUCH: HEALTH@DAILYMAIL.COM In a cruel twist of fate, a man undergoing an organ transplant to treat his liver cancer ended up catching a different form of the disease and dying. The unnamed patient, 69, from Arizona, had cirrhosis and received a liver transplant from a deceased donor in 2019. The transplant surgery was successful, however, months later the man developed an aggressive and advanced form of cancer. Further testing of the cells extracted from the biopsy revealed the cancer was 'distinctly different' from the disease the man had before undergoing the liver transplant. Based on a slew of lab results, doctors determined the new cancer in the liver 'originated from the donor.' And while the man was eventually diagnosed with lung cancer, the tumors were, unexpectedly, confined solely to his new liver. Cases of 'transplanted' cancer are extremely rare and there are no statistics on the subject - only a handful of sporadic cases have been documented in medical literature. Doctors in the case report wrote: 'To our knowledge, this is the only case in literature describing donorderived lung cancer in a liver graft without known malignancy in the donor.' A patient with cirrhosis and liver cancer underwent a liver transplant, receiving an organ from a deceased donor (stock photo) Your browser does not support iframes. The patient had originally needed a liver transplant because he developed alcoholic cirrhosis - liver disease that causes scarring of the organ due to excessive drinking - and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a type of liver cancer. But body scans did not show signs of cancer anywhere else in the body, doctors wrote in the patient's case report published in The Oncologist and shared in the NIH's National Library of Medicine. While his medical team originally tried minimally invasive procedures to cure the cancer, the man developed worsening liver function and a transplant was deemed necessary. Six months after his initial diagnosis, he underwent a liver transplant at The Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, Arizona. Four months later, a routine ultrasound revealed two solid masses in his liver. While the masses had not been seen on previous scans, doctors still ruled them 'indeterminate.' The patient then underwent a CT scan, which revealed three new masses. Six weeks later, an MRI showed 'innumerable liver masses.' Biopsies confirmed 'poorly differentiated carcinoma,' suggesting an aggressive and advanced form of metastatic lung cancer. Doctors wrote: 'The... features of the tumor were distinctly different from those of the prior HCC. These findings were suspicious for donortransmitted malignancy. 'A polymerase chain reactionbased assay [PCR test] strongly suggested that the newly diagnosed metastatic carcinoma in the liver originated from the donor.' The above charts show the genetic makeup of the tumor in the man's transplanted liver is the same as that of the donor This suggests the organ donor had undiagnosed, advanced lung cancer that had spread to his liver. The 50-year-old male deceased donor had a history of smoking, but did not have a history of lung tumors or cancer. Further, pre-donation testing did not uncover any tumors and exams of the donor's lungs did not uncover any causes for concern. Because of the spread of his cancer, the patient was not eligible to receive another liver transplant and anti-rejection medications - prescribed so his body did not reject his new liver - had to be reduced. The man received chemotherapy drugs and the cancer appeared to be stabilizing, but a subsequent scan revealed it had progressed beyond treatment. He died approximately six months after his transplant. Doctors wrote: 'Progression of [liver] metastases and reduced immunosuppressive agents led to liver failure and the patient's death.' The case report stated donor-derived lung cancer in a liver has only ever been reported one other time in a 41-year-old man whose donor was discovered to have lung cancer several days after the transplant. But this is the first-known case of donor-derived cancer from a donor with no known cancers. The above images show a CT scan of the liver tumor (top, circled) and an MRI of the liver tumor (bottom, circled) 'Transplanted' cancer cases are extremely rare. A 2013 review of these cases published in the Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Medicine states there is no estimation of risk for transmitting cancer from donor to recipient and there is limited data on the subject. Report authors wrote: 'The incidence of any cancer transmission is so low that sporadic case reports are the main source of information.' An earlier review from 1993 that looked at data from the 1970s also found there were only 'sporadic' reports of cancer being transmitted through organ donation. The 2013 review added: 'The low frequency and very variable stage of cancers mean that definitive risk calculations are impossible.' However, the authors continued, the data is 'highly likely to underestimate the true incidence.' Using the limited data available, authors of the 2013 report found cancers known to have been transmitted from donor to recipient on at least one occasion include, breast cancer, colon cancer, liver cancer, lung cancer, melanoma, ovarian cancer, prostate cancer and renal cancer. Western experts have publicly called on China to be more transparent about a viral outbreak overwhelming its hospitals as data shows the virus is growing in the US. Beijing has downplayed footage of overcrowded waiting rooms and wards posted on social media, saying respiratory infections are 'less severe' and 'smaller in scale' compared to last year. That has led some to fear there are similarities with the current situation and the Covid outbreak in 2019, which was initially played down by China. It is thought China's outbreak is being fueled by the relatively unknown virus human metapneumovirus (HPMV), which normally causes cold-like symptoms such as a blocked nose, headache, shivering and tiredness. Dr Sanjaya Senanayake, infectious disease expert associate professor of medicine at The Australian National University, said it was 'vital for China to share its data on this outbreak in a timely manner', including 'data about who is getting infected.' He added: 'Also, we will need genomic data confirming that HMPV is the culprit, and that there aren't any significant mutations of concern. Such genomic data will also guide vaccine development.' Their warning comes as the US experiences its own increase in HMPV cases, with positive test percentages doubling from the beginning to the end of December. According to the latest CDC data, just under 300 positive test results reported during the last week of December, the latest figures available. The US CDC said it is 'monitoring' the cases in China but believe they are 'not currently a cause for concern in the US.' The above is a grab from a video posted online claiming to show an overwhelmed hospital unit in China Your browser does not support iframes. Dr Andrew Catchpole, chief scientific officer at the infectious disease biotech hVIVO, said that while hMPV is typically reported in the colder months, 'it does seem that the rates of serious infection may be higher in China than what we would expect in a normal year.' He added: 'hMPV is common part of the winter cold causing viruses in most countries with seasonality. 'It is not usual to be a major concern for high numbers of hospitalizations, but it is unclear just how high the numbers are or if issues are arising purely due to coinciding with high flu and COVID levels.' HMPV first emerged in 2001 and typically causes symptoms of a common cold. But more severe symptoms such as bronchitis, bronchiolitis and pneumonia can occur, with sufferers experiencing a shortness of breath, severe cough or wheezing. Children, the elderly and immunocompromised patients are at the highest risk of severe complications. Because the virus is usually mild, its exact death rate is unknown. But experts estimate anywhere from 10 to 30 percent of patients hospitalized with HMPV die in the US. Dr Senanayake cautioned that China's increase in HMPV cases is akin to a 'bad flu season' in the US and was not likely to escalate into a global problem. Your browser does not support iframes. He said: 'At this stage, the likelihood is that China is experiencing a bad HMPV season, in the same way that in some years we have an overwhelming flu season. 'This could be due to a combination of viral and behavioral factors, but it should settle down.' Vasso Apostolopoulos, a professor of immunology at RMIT University in Australia, said the surge in cases and growing pressure on healthcare systems in densely populated regions like China shows a need for more surveillance. She said: 'Ensuring effective monitoring and timely responses will be key to mitigating the public health risks of this outbreak.' The Chinese CDC has urged people to take precautions like hand washing but has pushed back against claims that hospitals will be overwhelmed. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said: 'Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season. 'The diseases appear to be less severe and spread with a smaller scale compared to the previous year.' Similar to Covid, HMPV spreads through respiratory droplets that circulate in the air when a person coughs or sneezes. Close personal contact like shaking hands and touching contaminated surfaces can also spread the disease. Researchers estimate one in 10 respiratory illnesses in US children are caused by HMPV. Fever, cough, congestion, and shortness of breath are the most common symptoms, according to the CDC. The CDC estimates 20,000 children under five in the US are hospitalized with HMPV every year. There are no vaccines or specific treatments for the disease. Professor John Tregoning, an expert in vaccine immunology at Imperial College London, said: 'HMPV (human metapneumovirus) is not a new virus, it was first isolated in 2001 but most likely has been circulating for much longer. 'It has very similar symptoms (in children at least) to RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). It is part of the cocktail of winter viruses that we are exposed to. 'As with all respiratory viruses, there will be a range of symptoms and severity. Risk factors will include age (either very young or very old) and underlying immunosuppression. 'Like other viruses it will transmit in coughs, sneezes and in droplets. Protecting yourself by being in well ventilated, covering your mouth when you cough, washing your hands will all help. 'It will present in the same way as flu, sars-cov-2, RSV, so the same advice applies for those affected rest, take on fluids, try not to spread it to others.' Your browser does not support iframes. The above are clips from videos claiming to show overwhelmed hospitals in China Experts have cautioned that HMPV, which produces flu-like symptoms, can lurk in the body for days and so it can be easily passed on to others Professor Jill Carr, a virologist in the College of Medicine and Public Health at Flinders University in Australia, cautioned the current outbreak in China was not likely to cause a global crisis. She said: 'This is very different to the COVID-19 pandemic, where the virus was completely new in humans and arose from a spill-over from animals and spread to pandemic levels because there was no prior exposures or protective immunity in the community. 'The scientific community also has some understanding of the genetic diversity and epidemiology of HPMV, the kind of impact the virus has on the lungs and established laboratory testing methods - again, very different to the COVID-19 pandemic, where a new lung disease was seen, there was little information on how the virus may vary and spread and we had no initial diagnostic tests.' Andrew Easton, a virology professor at the University of Warwick in the UK, told Live Science: 'HMPV has been recognized as a significant problem in the at-risk population across the world since the turn of the century when it was first discovered. 'That risk has not changed significantly over the last almost 25 years.' According to the National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS), a CDC database, US cases of HMPV are on the rise compared to this time last year. Data from the week of December 28, the latest available, shows a test positivity rate of 1.9 percent. Out of about 13,800 total tests for that week, that adds up to just under 300 confirmed cases. The test positivity rate for the week of November 30 was 0.9, half that of the month after. And at this time last year, the CDC recorded a 1.2 percent test positivity rate. However, Paul Hunter, professor in medicine at the University of East Anglia in the UK, said that it can be difficult to detect year-over increases because HMPV is detected with molecular tests like PCR tests, which are used to detect Covid. He said: 'One of the issues involved in these types of infection is that they are being diagnosed more frequently as we move to molecular diagnostic panels, so it is not always easy to know whether year on year increases are due to actual increases or just because we are diagnosing a greater proportion of infections. He noted that while the UK has seen a 'marked increase in recent weeks' similar to the US, cases are roughly similar to this time last year. He said: 'So overall, I don't think there is currently any sign of a more serious global issue.' Dr Jacqueline Stephens, a senior lecturer in public health at Flinders University in Australia, said: 'I think were just more cautious of outbreaks now. 'Everyone is hypervigilant, and you hear this term human metapneumovirus and it sounds kind of scary.' A US CDC spokesperson told Nexstar: 'CDC is aware of reported increases of HMPV in China and is in regular contact with international partners and monitoring reports of increased disease. 'These reports are not currently a cause for concern in the US.' The first US bird flu death has been reported as officials confirmed Monday a person in Louisiana who had been hospitalized with severe respiratory symptoms died. Health officials have said the person was older than 65, had underlying medical problems and had been in contact with sick and dead birds in a backyard flock. No other details were revealed. They also said a genetic analysis of the patient's infection suggested the bird flu virus had mutated while inside their body, which could have caused a more severe illness. Since March, 66 confirmed bird flu infections have been reported in the US, but previous illnesses have been mild and most have been detected among farmworkers exposed to sick poultry or dairy cows. In two cases - an adult in Missouri and a child in California - health officials have not determined how they contract the virus. Many experts put H5N1 at the top of their lists of pandemic threats, due to how widespread it is among animals and how rapidly it appears to be mutating. The first US bird flu death has been reported - a person in Louisiana who had been hospitalized with severe respiratory symptoms Your browser does not support iframes. The death in Louisiana marks the first human case in the US linked to exposure to backyard birds, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Louisiana officials say they are not aware of any other cases in the state, and US officials have said they do not have any evidence the virus is spreading from person to person. The H5N1 bird flu has been spreading widely among wild birds, poultry, cows and other animals, however. And its growing presence in the environment increases the chances people will be exposed, and potentially catch it, officials have said. Officials continue to urge people who have contact with sick or dead birds to take precautions, including wearing respiratory and eye protection and gloves when handling poultry. Infectious disease experts are also alarmed over the figures, warning the scale of cases and every infection outside of birds raises the risk of the virus gaining mutations, allowing it to spread between people. Dr Marc Johnson, a virologist at the University of Missouri, recently said on X: 'This virus might not go pandemic, but it is really trying hard, and it sure is getting a lot of opportunities.' Overall, figures show since the virus was detected in the US in January 2022, more than 12,000 wild and domestic flocks have been infected. After the virus spread to cows this year, it was diagnosed in 866 herds across 16 states - with the majority in California and Colorado. And 66 cases have now been detected in humans across ten states this year, the most cases reported in the US in at least two decades. Before the current outbreak, the last human case of bird flu was in 1997. Your browser does not support iframes. California has declared a state of emergency over the emerging bird flu pandemic (stock of workers wearing hazmat suits). The above shows workers in the Eden Valley, Minnesota, in 2015. They were responding to a bird flu outbreak at a poultry farm The patients almost all had direct contact with either infected birds or cattle, and only suffered mild symptoms - such as conjunctivitis, or pink eye. However, the tide has started to shift to those who don't work with birds or cattle. In September, a patient in Missouri became the first to be infected without any direct exposure to infected animals. It's unclear how they became ill. A teenager in California who was not exposed to infected cattle was sickened last month. And the disease may be evolving to become more dangerous. A strain linked to wild birds has caused severe disease in humans, including a patient in Louisiana and a teenager in Canada- who was hospitalized for at least three weeks and needed help to breathe. There is no evidence any of the patients spread the disease to other patients. However, the virus has been detected in unpasteurized or 'raw' milks, leading the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to announce that all companies handling raw milk will be required to share samples for testing upon request. Many experts, including officials at the World Health Organization, have criticized the US response to the outbreak. Experts have described it as a pandemic 'unfolding in slow motion.' Until last month, nearly all testing of cattle and of people exposed to infected cows were voluntary. Even now, mandatory testing is limited only to cattle moving between state lines. Cases have also been sporadically recorded in pigs, which has concerned researchers because these animals can catch both human and bird strains of flu - and could be 'mixing vessels' for a new strain of bird flu virus. Your browser does not support iframes. This map shows cases of the virus detected in wild mammals, such as red foxes and seals And infections have been recorded among 419 non-bird wild animals in the US since May 2022, including red foxes, skunks, seals and raccoons. Experts warned these animals may pick up the virus after eating from carcasses of birds that had died from the bird flu. Wastewater surveillance for the virus has also picked up traces in 60 of the more than 250 sites monitored across the US. In California and Iowa, more than 80 percent of samples have tested positive. The US already has a stockpile of about 20million bird flu vaccines in its national stockpile, officials say, which are 'well matched' to the H5N1 virus. It also has the capacity to quickly make 100million more if necessary. However, the Biden administration said earlier this month that it has no plans to authorize a vaccine. There are also supplies of antivirals such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) - which used to treat the latest US bird flu patient in Louisiana - available. Still ongoing, is work to develop a bird flu vaccine for poultry and tests showing that human antivirals would work just as well on sick cows. New year, new you? It might just be given the first working day after the festive period is known as divorce day, because solicitors see a surge in enquiries about separating from spouses. Family lawyers say January is typically their busiest month of the year. John Roberts, a partner at Austin Lafferty Solicitors, says this is because couples spend more time together over the holiday period than normal and household tensions can run high. Some may see the New Year as a time for a fresh start. The first working Monday of the year - the 6th January this year - tends to be referred to as Divorce Day with many unhappy couples looking to make a change to their domestic situation, says Mr Roberts. Of course, the number of divorces isnt actually higher in January, because the time it takes to get divorced will depend on the complexity of the case, the type of application, and the cooperation between spouses. About four in 10 marriages in the UK end in divorce, official statistics show, although in general divorce rates are slowing. Last year saw the fewest number of divorces take place in England and Wales for more than 30 years. The drop is thought to be partly because people marry once the relationship is well established later in life (the average is 32 for women, and 35 for men) and because of financial pressures as couples cannot afford to live in separate households. If youre thinking about divorce in England and Wales, heres our guide to the main points of what you need to know. The 6th January, the first working Monday of the year, is often referred to as Divorce Day How much will it cost? Since the no-fault divorce laws were introduced in 2022 in England and Wales, the divorce process has become more streamlined and easier to manage yourself with little or no help from a solicitor. It costs 593 to apply for a divorce and 53 to submit a financial order. So, technically, the cost could be as low as around 1,000, although in reality youll spend more than this especially if young children are involved and you have assets such as a house and savings. Even in amicable cases where you want to take the DIY approach, youll likely want a solicitor to draft the order containing the settlement. Solicitors fees for assisting with the divorce process can range from 600 - 1,200, including VAT, plus the 593 court fee, so total costs would be around 2,000. Costs in relation to splitting your finances on divorce are separate to this, and are likely to be the greatest expense. Youll need to arrange how to split assets such as property, savings and pensions fairly, as well as discuss whether you need to sell property or whether there should be ongoing child maintenance payments. January is typically the busiest month of the year for lawyer John Roberts, because couples spend more time together over the holiday period than normal and household tensions can run high, and so some may see the New Year as a time for a fresh start Even if you agree on the division of finances directly between you both, you should still have it drafted into a legally binding agreement for approval by the court with these costs averaging approximately 4,000 to 5,000, says Joanna Farrands, head of family law at Moore Barlow. Everyones aim should be for the divorce not to end up in court where barristers need to be involved. Here costs can rack up hundreds of thousands of pounds and, given there is a shortage of judges, cases can drag on for years. However, the case may have to go to court if an agreement cannot be reached or one half suspects the other of lying about their finances. Costs are likely to be over 20,000 to be represented by a solicitor or barrister in court. How long will it take to divorce? The minimum time it takes for a divorce to go through is six months. If you apply for a divorce online, the application will be sent to the spouse you are separating from or both parties if it is a joint application for divorce. Youll also have to decide whether you wish to apply for a financial order. Your spouse will then need to respond to the divorce application within seven days, acknowledging that they have received it and that they are the person named in the application. There is then a 20-week period from the date the divorce application was issued before you can apply for the Conditional Order of Divorce (previously Decree Nisi). This is intended for couples to attempt to negotiate their financial settlement, says Claire Porter, a partner in the family law team at SAS Daniels Solicitors. After 20 weeks, you can apply for your Conditional Order, which the court will then process, usually within a few weeks. Once you have your Conditional Order, you must wait a further six weeks and one day before applying for your Final Order of Divorce. This is normally granted within 24 to 48 hours of the final application. The process can be slower depending on the need to use experts, such as pension on divorce experts, forensic accountants to value business interests or property valuers. Settlement may also take longer perhaps years if the parties are unable to agree terms between themselves or with assistance from solicitors, adds Porter. Do I need a solicitor (and how much will they cost?) Not necessarily for a divorce application, but you may want one for a financial settlement or to finalise child arrangements. Even where couples agree terms of settlement between themselves, you may want to instruct a family law solicitor to prepare a financial remedy order to set out what should happen to assets, income and pensions. If your split is amicable, a financial adviser could be appointed to help you draw up a fair split of the finances reducing the need for additional lawyer costs. For a simple case, three sessions with a financial adviser may be required initial disclosure, analysis and then a final review where cashflow models for each party are presented. Each individual will then walk away with a good assessment of what their financial future looks like. If they both approve the financial split, the couple can then make the final application themselves, and could pay an additional fee to a solicitor to review and approve the Conditional Order of Divorce before filing. Pensions may be complex and require actuarial analysis, which might be a further 2,000 to complete. In complex cases where there are multiple properties, or alternative investments such as a classic car or private equity, costs may be 10,000 to 15,000. Ben Glassman, a chartered financial planner at Evelyn Partners, says this is still cheaper than getting lawyers involved. He points to an example of a recent case he dealt with where the couple had multiple high-worth investments including classic cars and art. If the couple had gone down the two-lawyer route, they could have easily racked up legal fees of 500,000. We can save people a lot of money on lawyer fees, but the profile of the client is important. Where theres animosity or resentment, its just not going to work. Thats not what were there to do. Were there to give independent guidance, but if you dont trust what the other side is saying, youre never going to reach a resolution, adds Glassman. Is it cheaper if we use the same solicitor? Recent changes make it possible for both parties to use the same solicitor in certain situations. If your joint aim is to reach an outcome together that meets your respective needs and the needs of your children, then this could be an appropriate option, says Fiona Turner, a family lawyer at Weightmans. It can be much more cost-effective, reduce unnecessary expenses, and help you to craft an outcome that makes you both happy. Family lawyer Fiona Turner says to save money use a mediator or collaborative lawyer to resolve disputes Using the same solicitor is unlikely to be suitable if there is any form of abuse in the relationship, mental health or capacity concerns, or if there is a significant power imbalance between couples. Turner says it is also not permitted if there is a risk of a conflict of interest, where each party needs their own legal representation to ensure fairness. However, even in that situation, you can both agree to use a mediator or collaborative lawyer to resolve disputes, which can save money. Can I use a mediator - and how much do they charge? Before going down the lawyer route, couples are encouraged to work together with a mediator to come to amicable decisions. A mediator has a legal background and the charges are lower than a lawyer. They aim to help you reach an agreement with children, property and other assets. By law, if the case goes to court you need to have shown that you have tried mediation. A mediator should certainly be prioritised in cases where you want to keep costs as low as possible. Hourly charges for using a mediator are between 150 and 400. The average length of time is six sessions, says mediation service Mediate UK. Rebecca Cockcroft, a family law partner at Fladgate, says it is now increasingly common for parties to engage in something called a Private FDR. This is where the parties agree to pay an experienced family solicitor or barrister to act as a judge for the day and give an early neutral evaluation on what would be likely to happen if the case went to court. It isnt binding on the parties, but they are incredibly successful. I would estimate around 80 per cent of cases settle at or shortly after such a hearing, says Cockcroft. Arbitration, essentially a private final hearing, where an experienced family solicitor, barrister or former judge is paid to act as a judge, is also becoming increasingly popular as a speedier way to reach resolution. Arbitration is binding on the parties and is an attractive option, as it allows couples to set their own timetable and settle a case away from a congested court system. Do I have to declare all assets? Yes, full financial disclosure is essential during a divorce. Financial disclosure will generally include you giving details of any properties owned in sole and joint names, any business interests (including sole traders/partnerships and limited companies), savings, income and other assets such as cars and jewellery (depending on the value). Mandeep Benning, a specialist in divorce law at Duncan Lewis Solicitors, says there are severe consequences for a failure to provide full disclosure of assets. Not only can it delay matters, increasing legal fees in the process, but you could also have to pay your exs legal costs (on top of your own) and in some more extreme cases, you could be imprisoned or have your assets confiscated. The court also can draw adverse inferences and make orders based on what you might be hiding or choosing not to disclose. The court can also revisit the settlement years later if hidden assets surface. Honesty is not just the best policy it is a legal requirement, she adds. The starting point is that assets are split equally, 50/50, but this is not always the case perhaps if one is a lower earner and has reduced their working hours to look after children. There may also be consideration as to whether all the assets are matrimonial assets. For example, one party may have acquired a property prior to the marriage that has not been occupied by the parties during the marriage. It may be possible to argue that some assets acquired prior to the marriage should not be taken into account, but this will depend on the specific facts of the case, says Karen West, senior chartered legal executive at Family Law. What should I do to prepare my finances ahead of filing for divorce? Gather details of all your bank accounts, savings accounts, credit cards, loans, pensions and employment or other sources of income. You are likely to be asked to provide financial information that covers the past 12 month period, so focus on that first. Vanessa Lloyd Platt, a leading divorce lawyer and founder of Lloyd Platt & Co, says dont think about splurging money during divorce proceedings on big-ticket items such as a car, property or holiday to reduce the amount that goes to your ex. Spending on these items may end up with the court considering that it should come out of your side of the equation. Holidays are a difficult matter. If you are spending on the kind of holiday that you would normally take, then this may not be an issue. If, however, you have booked yourself an expensive cruise, then the court could take a dim view and consider this unnecessary and with a view to minimising the other partys settlement, she says. Joint accounts containing any notable funds can be frozen by speaking to the bank, adds Gavin Scott, family law partner at Freeths. This will stop money going in or out unless by agreement, although this may cause issues with direct debits and standing orders. Take legal advice before drawing funds out of any joint accounts (or joint investments) to ensure what you do is correct and reasonable and to avoid potential criticism by the court at a later stage, he says. Is it cheaper to use a small family solicitor or use a big law firm to get the best deal? There is no right answer to this. Solicitors say the most important thing is the firm has the relevant experience and offers you a personal service that will meet your specific needs. It may be helpful to make sure the firm has a team of lawyers, so that if your named lawyer is away on holiday or off sick, someone else can provide cover so there are no delays. Many will offer a free initial call so you can get a feel for how they operate How can I ensure I get a fair result? Think carefully about how youll manage financially going forward on your own. If youve been reliant on a spouses income, youll need to plan for how youll fund living costs in the long-term. You may be entitled to certain benefits or spousal maintenance. Use the Turn2Us benefits calculator (benefits-calculator.turn2us.org.uk) to see what benefits you could get. Seek advice from a neutral professional such as a financial planner or solicitor, rather than relying on well-meaning friends and family. Tom Francis, head of digital advice at Octopus Money, says its vital to think beyond the family home. A common mistake we see time and time again is the non-working spouse prioritising the family home above everything else in a settlement. While understandable, this can lead to real difficulty later in life, if there is no pension or income obtained alongside it. We have seen instances of somebody being awarded the family home, but without financial means to maintain it, or meet their normal expenditure for the rest of their life. Make sure you take pensions into consideration as well. They can sometimes be the most valuable asset at times worth even more than the family home yet can be overlooked. Just 16 per cent of couples split pensions in divorce which can often lead to women significantly missing out on income in retirement, according to pension firm Scottish Widows. Its research also found that simply not discussing pensions during a divorce could cost women up to 77,000 at retirement on average. Vanessa Lloyd-Platt says that since Covid she has found there to be a rise in aggression, injunctions and bad behaviour such as business owners reducing their income to pay lower child maintenance. She also finds people are fighting more over the children now because parents often want 50/50 custody so one doesnt have to pay child maintenance to the other parent. This is inappropriate in many cases if someone is working full-time. Ive seen the most bizarre regimes being proposed that are just unworkable for children. The London Stock Exchange is expected to receive a much-needed boost in the first half of this year as firms list after a drought of floats in 2024. Analysts at consulting giant EY said there were signs of 'cautious optimism' for 2025 thanks to a 'robust pipeline of deals' which could drive a 'rebound in activity.' A key upcoming listing is fast fashion giant Shein, which is looking to float on the UK stock market in the first three months of the year and is expected to fetch a value of around 50billion. Scott McCubbin, EY's UKI IPO leader, said: 'A stabilised domestic policy environment post-election, robust pipeline of deals and listings reform are creating opportunities to restore London's competitiveness. 'While London faces strong competition from other financial centres, its unique strengths including a global reputation for financial expertise remain competitive advantages.' The analysis will provide relief to stock market bosses after the LSE was battered by a lack of listings and the defection of several firms to other exchanges. Boost: The analysis will provide relief to stock market bosses after the LSE was battered by a lack of listings and the defection of several firms to other exchanges EY's data showed 18 companies debuted in London last year, the fewest since it began keeping records in 2010. Of these, eight occurred in the final three months of 2024, including film production group Canal+. The Paddington maker's December debut, which raised 2.6billion, was the largest float on the LSE since 2022. Shares have since fallen nearly 30 per cent from their listing price of 290p. But one silver lining is that while the number of listings fell, the amount they raised soared. EY found 3.4billion was raised from London listings in 2024, up from the 954m from 23 companies the previous year. But concerns about attracting companies persist, as 88 firms delisted or shifted their main listing away from London. Last week several top City brokers urged Chancellor Rachel Reeves to ditch the stamp duty tax on UK shares, warning it was deterring investment. Paul Geddes, chief executive of wealth manager Evelyn Partners, told the Mail last week axing the stamp duty, combined with other reforms, could 'reignite interest in the UK market'. Savers are still chasing old state pension top-up payments made to the Government months or years ago, as a new crunch deadline looms this April. Lynne Cole, 71 paid more than 800 in early 2023, in the midst of the last big rush to take advantage of a deal to buy top-ups stretching back to 2006. Nearly two years on, she had still got no boost to her state pension, despite her MP's attempt to help - until her husband left a comment on a Steve Webb column last month, saying: 'Possibly we'll both be dead before she gets it!' Within days of This is Money flagging the delay to the Department for Work and Pensions and HMRC, Mrs Cole received a 530 back payment and a state pension rise of around 7.70 a week. It turned out her case had been marked as 'complex' for an unknown reason, put to one side and not dealt with by Government staff until we demanded an explanation. Buying top-ups can give a generous boost to retirement income if you buy the correct years on your record. Lynne Cole: 'I seem to have been going around in circles and getting nowhere for almost two years' Savers now have until 5 April to take advantage of the deal to buy top-ups dating back 18 years, after which it will revert to just six years, unless the deadline is pushed back again. In spring 2023, the time-limited deal proved so popular that savers jammed phone lines and overwhelmed the system. The meltdown ultimately forced the Government to extend the cut-off date twice, first to midsummer and then when demand didn't slow until April 2025. That caused a huge backlog of payments to process, and This is Money readers contacted us in droves over the following year to complain about long delays, lost cash and government staff giving wrong information or unable to help. Some accused the Government of encouraging them to make unnecessary payments, then failing to help find and refund their cash. We still receive messages now, and we highlight Mrs Cole's struggle to track down her lost payment plus two other bungled cases below. If your payment has gone missing, scroll down to find out how to contact us. Why are top-ups so valuable, might YOU benefit - and are DWP and HMRC ready for another big rush? This is Money's guide to buying state pension top-ups offers six golden rules on deciding if you should fill gaps by Steve Webb, a former Pensions Minister and our retirement columnist. It can be highly cost-effective because one extra year will boost your state pension entitlement by 1/35th of the standard rate. That works out at 6.32 a week, around 329 a year, or nearly 6,600 over a 20-year retirement (not taking into account tax), for an initial outlay of 824.20 at the 2022-2023 rate, or less if you are filling in a part-year. The 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 rate is 907.40. DWP and HMP launched a new online tool in 2024 to help people check if they should fill state pension gaps and buy top-ups more easily, and since then we get far fewer messages from unhappy readers. The system is run jointly by the two departments. HMRC is responsible for maintaining National Insurance records, which you must check for gaps in your state pension records, and processing top-up payments. The DWP is in charge of revising state pension forecasts or payments after purchases. If money goes missing, it is hard to tell at which stage it happened and therefore which department to chase about it. Readers constantly tell us how they call and are sent round in circles, never finding any staff member willing to help solve the problem. State pension top-ups: The system is run jointly by HMRC and the DWP, which say they 'work closely together and always prioritise resources as needed to manage spikes in demand' Meanwhile, a state pension overhaul in April 2016 means some top-ups do not improve your payments. If you handed over money unnecessarily due to your own error or on the wrong advice of Government staff, you will need to apply for a refund. When we were investigating cases of missing cash for this story, we asked whether HMRC or DWP or both plan to allocate extra staff to deal with top-ups in the run-up to this April's deadline, and if they intend to work more closely together so payments are processed efficiently and don't get lost between them. In light of Mrs Cole's experience, we also asked how many top-ups cases are currently marked as 'complex' and put aside, and what is being done by DWP and HMRC to sort them out. A Government spokesperson says: 'There's still time to make voluntary contributions before the 5 April 2025 deadline. We encourage people to act now. 'HMRC and DWP will continue to work closely together and always prioritise resources as needed to manage spikes in demand, particularly for upcoming deadlines.' 'We have apologised to Mrs Cole for the level of service she received where errors do occur we are committed to resolving them as soon as possible.' Want to buy top-ups, or just check if it is worth doing in your own circumstances? Use the online top-ups service here or the HMRC app. This is Money's guide to buying state pension top-ups is here. If you have paid and heard nothing more, contact us at pensionquestions@thisismoney.co.uk. Unfortunately we can't help everyone so you can also contact your MP. If you are an expat, you can contact the MP in the last constituency you lived in and still request help. Find your MP here. 'I seem to have been going around in circles and getting nowhere' Lynne Cole, a retired mortgage administrator from Kent, saw her 824.20 payment to top up her state pension vanish in February 2023. The huge rush of savers taking advantage of the special deal on top-ups was mounting at that time. This is Money was the first to report on the phone gridlock the same month, and on early calls for the deadline to be extended - which it ultimately was, twice. Mrs Cole's cheque was also cashed at the same time, but despite her letters and phone calls and her MP getting involved, there was no sign of her additional pension by December 2024. That was when her husband Patrick left a frustrated comment on Steve Webb's recent column about buying top-ups, and we spotted it and emailed him later that day. When we spoke to Mrs Cole, she told us: 'I seem to have been going around in circles and getting nowhere for almost two years.' Mr Cole added: 'Maybe we should have contacted you before, but who would have thought it would take this long? 'Lynne did phone them and was told there was a backlog. It's ridiculous. You wouldn't believe it. It's been two years.' Within a couple of days of This is Money flagging her case, a DWP staff member called Mrs Cole to sort the matter out. She told us: 'We spoke to a very helpful person who made no excuses and said that for some reason my case had been marked as complex, put to one side and not dealt with. 'He couldn't say why this had happened and said that it wasn't complex at all. He said a payment of 533 backdated pension would be paid into my bank account by Monday and that my pension will increase by 400 approximately per annum. 'Once again thank you very much for your help in this matter, without which I'd still be waiting. It's one less thing to worry about.' The Government apologised to Mrs Cole for the level of service she received, her state pension was increased to reflect her updated National Insurance record, and arrears were issued. Richard Felton: He paid 982.80 in June to fill gaps in his state pension record, but his cash got stuck in the system for six months DWP put me in a 'priority list' but I still waited months Richard Felton, 59, paid 982.80 in June to fill gaps in his state pension record but it got stuck in the system for months. The IT business analyst, who lives in London, told us: 'I was initially told two weeks to allocate, then told eight weeks, then 26 weeks. Still waiting. 'They know my NI shortfalls by year, they confirmed receipt of money in June, they know the years to be topped up. Surely allocation should be automatic? 'Maybe they are upgrading computer systems and it has over-run, but this is a simple procedure, isn't it? An intern could knock-up a spreadsheet in days, I think. 'I have chased DWP a couple of times. They put me in a "priority list", but still the target date is December 2024.' When This is Money raised Mr Felton's case with DWP and HMRC, they apologised and allocated his contributions to his National Insurance record. Meanwhile, Christine Walker (name has been changed) first contacted us about delays to processing her top-ups cash just over a year ago. We covered her experiences and that of 10 other readers at the time, and her 6,500 payment was allocated to her state pension record. But that wasn't the end of the story for the 67-year-old, who lives in the UAE, because she received advice from government staff to buy a further top-up and paid around 820 in mid-March. This payment also got lost in the system, until This is Money chased it up for her last June. Mrs Walker had deferred her state pension while all this was being sorted out, but when she finally applied her last top-up payment was not backdated correctly. This is Money asked the DWP and HMRC to investigate this third failure, prompting an apology to her and an arrears payment of 85. What do DWP and HMRC say? The Government provided the following further information about buying state pension top-ups. - People can check for and fill any gaps in their National Insurance record quickly and easily, using our check your state pension forecast tool on Gov.uk. - We encourage people to check if it would be worth their while to pay voluntary NI contributions by using our online checker. It allows most people under state pension age to view gaps in their NI record and pay voluntary contributions to fill those gaps. - People have until the 5 April 2025 deadline to pay for National Insurance record gaps dating back to 6 April 2006. - We always prioritise resources to deal with foreseen busy periods. This will include reviewing our resources before the deadline. 41st Harbin Int'l Ice and Snow Festival kicks off Xinhua) 08:25, January 06, 2025 A visitor poses for photos at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Wang Jianwei) Visitors have fun at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Wang Jianwei) Visitors have fun at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Wang Song) An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 5, 2025 shows visitors having fun at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) A visitor poses for photos at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Photo by Liu Yang/Xinhua) Children have fun at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Photo by Liu Yang/Xinhua) Visitors have fun at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Wang Jianwei) A tourist visits the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) A visitor poses for photos at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Zhang Tao) Visitors have fun at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) A visitor poses for photos at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Zhang Tao) Visitors watch a fireworks show during the 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Zhang Tao) Visitors have fun at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Wang Song) An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 5, 2025 shows visitors having fun at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 5, 2025 shows visitors having fun at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) Visitors watch a drone performance during the opening ceremony of the 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) Visitors have fun at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Wang Jianwei) Visitors watch the opening ceremony of the 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) Visitors watch a performance at the opening ceremony of the 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 5, 2025 shows visitors having fun at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 5, 2025 shows a fireworks show during the 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Zhang Tao) A child poses for photos with frozen roses at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) Visitors have fun at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Wang Jianwei) Visitors have fun at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Zhang Tao) An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 5, 2025 shows visitors having fun at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Wang Song) Visitors have fun at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 5, 2025. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Wang Jianwei) An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 5, 2025 shows visitors having fun at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Wang Jianwei) An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 5, 2025 shows a fireworks show during the 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Zhang Tao) An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 5, 2025 shows a fireworks show during the 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Zhang Tao) An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 5, 2025 shows visitors having fun at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. The 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival kicked off here on Sunday with the theme "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia." (Xinhua/Wang Jianwei) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) A furious husband is 'disgusted' that NHS bosses have failed to sack an employee who secretly filmed his wife having a mental health breakdown and then shared the harrowing footage in a WhatsApp group. Julie Trafford, 53, was 'covertly' recorded as she had an upsetting psychotic incident in the foyer area of the Becklin Centre, in Leeds, West Yorkshire. The male receptionist who filmed her then posted the seven videos on the messaging platform - which was seen by more than 20 strangers. Julie's husband Andrew is demanding answers from the Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust as to why the covert recorder still has his job after his 'nefarious' actions. The NHS trust, which described the recording as an isolated incident', confirmed that the staff member still worked for them, despite the breach. Husband Andrew, 59, who is a full-time carer for his wife, said: 'Everything is still a bit too raw for Julie.' The Trust has apologised and is now considering recommendations made by England's healthcare regulator, after five complaints about Mrs Trafford's care were upheld. Julie has struggled with mental health issues since her 20s and had been sectioned a number of times before. Julie Trafford, 53, (pictured) was 'covertly' recorded as she had an upsetting psychotic incident in the foyer area of the Becklin Centre, in Leeds, West Yorkshire Andrew Trafford (pictured) is 'disgusted' that NHS bosses have failed to sack an employee who secretly filmed his wife having a mental health breakdown Pictured: A letter Julie received from the NHS about being filmed without her consent Following the death of her father three years ago she said things had become more difficult for her. She was admitted to the Becklin Centre on October 2, 2023 and had a breakdown on October 4, and was filmed in the reception area. The day before she was discharged on October 18, she was handed a letter by a member of management. It said seven videos had been taken of her and shared on a WhatsApp group without her consent. But Julie and her husband, who have three grandchildren, are not happy that heads have not rolled. Julie, who worked in administration for the NHS before she was taken ill, only learned of the secret filming almost a fortnight after it happened. Andrew said:'We were both told on the same day, whilst Julie was still in hospital, and was due to be discharged the next day. They phoned me at exactly the same time, and that was the first time we were aware of it. 'The incident happened on October 4 and we weren't told about it until the 17th.' The Trafford's have been given no explanation as to why a staff member chose to record and share Julie in the reception area. Andrew said:'It is a data breach. 'We don't know anything about the WhatsApp group or who created it. 'I have seen the videos and so have lots of people, and it clearly shows Julie having a psychotic moment. 'The only reason I can see for him filming Julie secretly is for nefarious reasons, because he certainly hasn't done it for medical reasons. 'In the videos you can see the NHS computer screen in front and in front of that is his laptop, and his phone is connected to the laptop - some could say that, perhaps, he was live streaming. 'There where seven videos, one of which was Julie being restrained. The videos are all within the space of 15 minutes. Jule was admitted to the Becklin Centre (pictured) on October 2, 2023 and had a breakdown on October 4, and was filmed in the reception area 'He's then shared them with the WhatsApp group, I have no idea what it was called, but it had a minimum of 20 people. Some of them are NHS employees but a couple of people were members of the public.' Andrew said the treatment of Julie is 'shocking' and 'disgusting' and claims the NHS has failed to adhere to their core values. Andrew said the culprit worked as a receptionist in a 'patient-facing' role. Julie had her own room in the Becklin Centre, but her filmed psychotic episode occurred in the foyer as she tried to leave the building on October 4. 'It's astounding that someone has done this and then kept his job,' said Andrew. Andrew complained to West Yorkshire Police but they could not discover anything they could make an arrest upon. 'People don't do this thing as a one-off, so it begs the question how many other people he's done this to? 'We want to know what else is on his hard drive and did the Trust go through the phones of those 20-plus other individuals he shared this footage with. 'We want answers and closure on this matter.' The group, with about 20 people, included some NHS colleagues - but others were members of the public. The NHS letter said the videos had been quickly deleted. In the footage Julie could be seen repeatedly kicking and punching the front door in the hospital's reception. A later video showed her being restrained by several members of staff. She doesn't recall much of the incident, saying: 'I felt trapped and wanted to get away from the ward.' A year on, she was 'still deeply upset' about the incident. 'Why would someone do that?' she asked. 'Especially the NHS employees. It is totally out of order.' The news that the worker who recorded and shared the footage had not lost their job has left the Traffords in a state of disbelief. 'I personally thought it was a given that he wouldn't keep his job,' she said. Julie had her own room in the Becklin Centre (pictured), but her filmed psychotic episode occurred in the foyer as she tried to leave the building on October 4 'I would have hoped that they wouldn't want someone like that in their company.' 'These people need to be held to account for brushing this under the carpet, because that's what it feels like to us.' The Care Quality Commission (CQC), the independent regulator of health and social care in England, has since upheld five complaints the couple made. It made several recommendations, including that the trust should clarify whether the staff member involved remained in a patient-facing role at the centre. The Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation trust is obliged to respond to the CQC's recommendations within a month. The trust's chief executive, Dr Sara Munro, said she regretted the 'hurt caused by the unacceptable actions of one member of staff' in this 'upsetting case.' She said she wanted to reassure people 'that they are safe in the care of the Trust'. Marjorie Wallace, CEO of mental health charity Sane, said Mrs Trafford's experience was 'profoundly sad and shocking'. She added that the charity was receiving an increasing number of reports from those 'too afraid to entrust the care of a loved one to the inpatient psychiatric services'. The Trafford's MP, Richard Burgon, has written to the trust for more information about their investigation. The Information Commissioner's Office, the public body for data protection, said it was assessing the incident too. A Department of Health spokesperson said it was a 'hugely concerning' case, and added: 'We expect NHS organisations to take allegations of staff misconduct very seriously and investigate incidents properly. 'Everyone dealing with mental health issues deserves to be looked after with dignity and respect.' Mexico's drug cartels are using homeless people as human guinea pigs to test experimental cocktails of fentanyl with deadly consequences. Gang members visit camps in northwest Mexico and offer broke addicts sums of around $30 to try an injection of their latest fentanyl concoction and then watch to see what happens next. The gangsters, who visit such camps on a daily basis, use their cell phones to document the reactions to their powerful synthetic opioids, an investigation by The New York Times shows. Homeless camp resident Pedro Lopez Camacho is among those who took the money, and the needle, several times. He survived but says he watched others take their last breaths after getting a shot. 'When it's really strong, it knocks you out or kills you,' he said. 'The people here died.' The testing on human guinea pigs marks the latest phase in an opioid abuse crisis that began in the US in the late 1990s and saw overdose deaths spiral, climbing at times by more than 30 percent a year. Fatalities peaked in the US at more than 110,000 in 2022, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Deaths fell back to 97,000 in the 12-month period ending in June 2024. Cartel gangsters prey upon impoverished drug addicts, like the men in this photo, and offer them cash to risk their lives with a next-generation fentanyl injection Pictured: A cartel hitman who claims to have killed seven people Behind the scenes of the Sinaloa Cartel: gang members prepare capsules with methamphetamine in a safe house in Culiacan The shift is attributed to greater public awareness of the dangers of fentanyl, more addiction treatment, the availability of opioid reversal drugs and because so many addiction-prone people have already perished. Even so, the fatality rate remains shockingly high, and president-elect Donald Trump has said he'd 'like to end the drug epidemic' by battling the multi-billion dollar cartels bringing drugs into the US. He's vowed to crack down on fentanyl smugglers, secure the US-Mexico border, execute drug dealers and pressure China into halting the export of the pre-cursor chemicals in fentanyl. His incoming administration's border czar, Tom Homan, a former Immigration and Customs Enforcement chief, has threatened military action against Mexican cartels and the 'full might of the United States special operations to take them out.' The gang members who test new variations of fentanyl on the impoverished show how the groups are adapting to a fast-changing environment and how far they will go to dominate the US market. Global efforts to crack down on synthetic opioids have in recent months made it harder for them to source the chemical compounds needed to produce fentanyl. The original source, China, has restricted exports of raw ingredients, pushing gang bosses to devise new and risky ways to maintain fentanyl production and potency. They've started mixing the drug with a wider range of additives including animal sedatives and other potent anesthetics. To test their results, the criminals who make the fentanyl for the cartels, known as cooks, say they inject their experimental cocktails into humans as well as chickens and rabbits. Cartel drugs 'cooks' inject their experimental cocktails into chickens and rabbits, like the ones on sale here at a market in Mexico City Cartel drug testers increasingly prey upon the homeless in Mexico, like this man at a shelter in Mexico City If the rabbits survive beyond 90 seconds, the drug is seen as too weak to be sold in the US. After raiding cartel labs, officials have described finding dead animals used for testing among the drug-making gear. 'They experiment in the style of Dr. Death,' Renato Sales, a former national security commissioner in Mexico, told The Times. 'It's to see the potency of the substance.' Cooks described trying out unusual drugs including oral anesthetics and canine sedatives in the quest for a viable fentanyl mixer. The labs are haphazard. Cooks mix up vats of chemicals using rudimentary gear, exposing themselves to toxic substances that have left some hallucinating, retching, passed out and even dead. The cartel cooks of Sinaloa State are credited with introducing xylazine, an animal tranquilizer known on the street as 'Tranq,' to the US drug market. It's often mixed with fentanyl into a deadly cocktail. 'You inject this into a hen, and if it takes between a minute and a minute and a half to die, that means it came out really good,' a cook told the paper. 'If it doesn't die or takes too long to die, we'll add xylazine.' Experts say that more potent combinations net more money for the cartels. Caleb Banta-Green, a research professor at the University of Washington School of Medicine, called it a 'wild west of experimentation.' The cartels are recruiting university chemistry students as their cooks. One student hired by the cartel revealed that to test new cocktails, the group brought in drug users living on the street and injected them with synthetic opioids. No one has died, said the student, but some were left convulsing and foaming at the mouth. Live chickens and turkeys for sale in the weekly market in Oaxaca, Mexico another testing option for the cartel cooks The drug was initially produced in India and China and mailed to recipients across North America. Makeshift labs have since sprung up in Mexico to receive the precursor chemicals, mix them or press them into pills, and smuggle them into the US Members of the Sinaloa Cartel prepare drugs for the US market at a safe house in Culiacan The cooks responsible for mistakes are severely punished by angry cartel bosses. Armed men have reportedly locked offenders in rooms with rats and snakes and left them there for long stretches without food or water. After a human guinea pig dies from a drug test, cartel chiefs still greenlight the mixture for export to the US. A powerful and potentially lethal batch of fentanyl can be attractive to users in the US, as it is certain to get them high. 'One dies, and 10 more addicts are born,' a cartel chief told The Times. 'We don't worry about them.' US health chiefs have recently started warning about a drug 100 times more potent than fentanyl that's claimed lives across 37 states in recent years. The drug, called carfentanil, is a derivative of fentanyl that was designed to tranquilize elephants. It's the most potent commercial opioid on the market. There were 513 overdoses from carfentanil between January 2021 and June 2024, hitting states like Florida and West Virginia the hardest, says a CDC report from December. It comes in powder, paper, tablet, patch and spray form, and can be inhaled, ingested or absorbed through the skin. In it's powdered form, the drug mimics cocaine or heroin, and is often mixed into other illegal drugs like xylazine or counterfeit pills. The groundwork for the US fentanyl epidemic was laid more than 20 years ago, with aggressive over-prescribing of the synthetic opioid oxycodone. This image from Mexico's national defense forces shows a makeshift drugs lab in northwest Mexico, where officers discovered precursor chemicals, fentanyl paste, weapons and drug making gear, from November 2021 Immigrants seeking asylum in the US are processed by border agents after crossing into Arizona from Mexico. Guards told DailyMail.com that cartels get drugs across the border by using migrants as decoys What is fentanyl and why is it so dangerous? Fentanyl was originally developed in Belgium in the 1950s to aid cancer patients with their pain management. Given its extreme potency it has become popular amongst recreational drug users. Overdose deaths linked to synthetic opioids like fentanyl jumped from nearly 10,000 in 2015 to nearly 20,000 in 2016 - surpassing common opioid painkillers and heroin for the first time. And drug overdoses killed more than 72,000 people in the US in 2017 a record driven by fentanyl. It is often added to heroin because it creates the same high as the drug, with the effects biologically identical. But it can be up to 50 times more potent than heroin, according to officials in the US. In the US, fentanyl is classified as a schedule II drug - indicating it has some medical use but it has a strong potential to be abused and can create psychological and physical dependence. Advertisement As US authorities clamped down on its prescription, users moved to heroin, which the Sinaloa Cartel happily supplied. But making its own fentanyl far more potent and versatile than heroin in small, easily concealed labs was a game changer. The cartel went from its first makeshift fentanyl lab to a network of labs concentrated in the northern state of Sinaloa in less than a decade. A single cook can press fentanyl into 100,000 counterfeit pills every day to fool Americans into thinking they're taking Xanax, Percocet or oxycodone. The pills are smuggled over the border to supply drug addicts across the US, including the homeless users seen stumbling around on the streets of San Francisco, New York and other big cities. Fentanyl is so cheap to make that the cartel reaps massive profits even wholesaling the drug at 50 cents per pill, investigators say. The drug's potency makes it particularly dangerous. The narcotic dose of fentanyl is so close to the lethal dose that a pill meant to ensure a high for a habituated user can easily kill a less experienced person taking something they didn't know was fentanyl. Synthetic opioids mostly fentanyl now kill more Americans every year than died in the Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan wars combined. In Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York and other big cities, the sight of homeless people collapsed on sidewalks, puffing fentanyl smoke and lurching from moments of slumber to bouts of violent shivering have become all too common. The Facebook group Lost Voices of Fentanyl has tens of thousands of members who pay tribute to their loved ones whose lives were claimed by the drug. QUESTION: Did horror legends Boris Karloff and Vincent Price once sing a duet together? Boris Karloff and Vincent Price performed a song called The Two Of Us in an episode of The Red Skelton Hour from 1968. The episode was entitled He Who Steals My Robot Steals Trash, in which the two actors created a new type of Frankensteins monster, a country bumpkin with red hair. Karloff and Price drove onto the stage at the shows end in a hearse with the registration Rest In Peace. They then broke into the show-tune song referencing some of their most famous works: The two of us. Theres lots of gory pictures for the two of us. 'He used to shine as Frankenstein 'And I was The Fly 'They forced us to die every time 'To pay for the crime 'They killed the two of us but well be always travelling on... Karloff was in very ill health at the time. He passed away at the age of 81 just five months later. Price would later provide the introduction for Michael Jacksons Thriller. Tina Avery, Matlock, Derbys Boris Karloff and Vincent Price performed a song called The Two Of Us in an episode of The Red Skelton Hour from 1968 QUESTION: When was the term new wave first used? What was it referring to? French journalist Francoise Giroud coined the term Nouvelle Vague (New Wave) in her 1957 LExpress article Rapport Sur La Jeunesse (Report On Youth). It described the new ideas expressed by the generation that had not yet finished high school. She furthered her thesis in her 1958 book La Nouvelle Vague, which expressed a need for change within French society. Meanwhile, the critic Pierre Billard first applied the term to the arts in February 1958. He was discussing the new wave of filmmakers, who had ditched conventional narrative filmmaking in favour of experimentation. Some films that brought international attention to the French New Wave include The 400 Blows and Hiroshima, Mon Amour. Mr S. W. Knight, Cambridge QUESTION: What is meant by stunt words, ghost words and pseudowords? Further to the earlier answer, a famous ghost word (a word that appears in a dictionary due to error) is Fesnyng. This collective noun for ferrets has appeared in several dictionaries over the years but no one has traced its root. Marcus White, Cheltenham, Glos Keir Starmer is under growing pressure to investigate a Labour minister after it emerged she made use of a second home linked to the recently deposed Bangladeshi regime. Tulip Siddiq, the niece of former authoritarian prime minister Sheikh Hasina, used a flat in Hampstead, north London, after it was gifted to her teenage sister by an ally of the ousted Awami League party. Moin Ghani, a Bangladeshi lawyer who has represented Hasinas government, was the generous donor, according to the Sunday Times. Hasina stands accused by the new Bangladeshi administration of massacres, killings and crimes against humanity, including the deaths of at least 800 protesters. She is also accused of corruption and embezzlement, with her rule ending in self-imposed exile last August following an uprising. The Hampstead revelation, which came just days after it emerged that Ms Siddiq was given a flat in Kings Cross by another associate of senior Awami League members, has sparked furious calls for an inquiry. Matt Vickers, shadow Home Office minister, said: Allegations of this nature against any member of government are unacceptable, but are even more concerning because Tulip Siddiq is Starmers anti-corruption minister. The questions facing Tulip Siddiq are growing by the day, and it is time for Keir Starmer to grow a spine and take action. He shouldnt let his close friendship with her get in the way of doing the right thing. Mr Ghani is understood to have given the flat on Finchley Road to Ms Siddiqs sister Azmina, then 18, in 2009. Tulip Siddiq used a flat in Hampstead, North London gifted to her teenage sister by an ally of the ousted Bangladeshi Awami League party Ms Siddiq with Chancellor Rachel Reeves. The Treasury minister was also given a flat in Kings Cross by another associate of senior Awami League members Land Registry documents state that the transfer was not for money or anything that has a monetary value. The minister listed the flat as her address on Companies House on three occasions between 2012 and 2014, before becoming a Labour MP. Her husband, Christian Percy, listed it as his residence as late as May 2016, by which time Ms Siddiq represented Hampstead and Kilburn. The property was sold for 650,000 in 2021. A spokesman for Ms Siddiq said: Any suggestion that Tulip Siddiqs ownership of this property, or any other property is in any way linked to support for the Awami League, would be categorically wrong. Ms Siddiq has faced calls to step back from anti-corruption work amid claims she helped her family embezzle 4 billion from a nuclear power project. Bangladeshs high court has heard claims that Ms Siddiq, 42, may have helped to broker the nuclear plant deal, worth 10 billion. It was signed in the Kremlin in 2013 by Hasina and Vladimir Putin in the presence of Ms Siddiq then a Labour councillor. Bangladeshs Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) says the alleged embezzlement was between 2009 and 2023 while Hasina was prime minister. The ACC is also investigating Ms Siddiqs mother, 69, her ex-PM aunt, 77, and two other relatives. They are alleged to have siphoned off 3.9 billion through fake companies and Malaysian bank accounts. Tory MP Ben Obese-Jecty said the Prime Minister must investigate Ms Siddiq as the allegations surrounding the anti-corruption minister continue to grow. Fellow backbencher Joe Robertson said the allegations need to be properly investigated and while that happens she needs to step aside from her Government role which includes anti-corruption. Ex-Tory minister Neil OBrien added: Ironically [Ms Siddiqs] job is countering economic crime, money laundering and illicit finance. Ms Siddiq (left) with her aunt, former Bangladeshi prime minister Sheikh Hasina and Russian president Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin Ms Siddiq has faced calls to step back from anti-corruption work amid claims she helped her family embezzle 4 billion from a nuclear power project No 10 has previously said that Ms Siddiq, the Treasury minister responsible for tackling corruption, maintained the confidence of the Prime Minister. Since 2022, Ms Siddiq has been renting a 2.1 million property in Finchley, north London, which belongs to a company owned by Abdul Karim Nazim, a member of the Awami Leagues UK executive. A source said Ms Siddiq moved into the flat over security concerns and pays a rate consistent with market levels. Ms Siddiqs family have also been beneficiaries of generous donations from allies of the party. Her mother lives in a property in Golders Green, north London, owned through an offshore trust by Shayan Rahman, who is the son of a billionaire politician and adviser to Hasina. Ms Siddiqs sister and mother previously resided in a Hampstead home owned by Kazi Zafarullah, a member of the Awami Leagues executive committee, who bought it in 2007 and sold it for 499,000 in 2012. In previous years, Ms Siddiq has insisted that a Kings Cross flat given to her by Abdul Motalif, who has links to associates of Hasina, was not a gift, instead saying her parents had bought it for her. In recent days, however, it has emerged the flat was handed over as an act of gratitude. A source close to Ms Siddiq told The Mail on Sunday: Tulips previous understanding of how she gained ownership of the property has changed. As soon as she realised the error, she ensured the journalist who enquired previously was informed. Mr Ghani and Mr Nazim were contacted for comment. Former Tory party chairman Richard Holden said last night: With such serious allegations, Sir Keir Starmer must fully investigate the City minister. Neil Kinnock yesterday urged Labour to commit billions of pounds more to defence, amid warnings the UK would struggle to cope with a ballistic missile attack by Russia or other hostile states. The former Labour leader said Britains security was imperilled by a failure to respond adequately to technological advances in the Russian military. He said Labours stated ambition to raise defence spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP would not be enough to keep the UK safe and urged ministers to increase the target to closer to four per cent. His comments will pile pressure on Sir Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves who scrapped Tory plans to reach the 2.5 per cent milestone by 2030 and who have yet to produce an alternative timetable of their own. Lord Kinnock told Times Radio that the government could not afford further delay, saying: I will probably lose friends over this, but I think its the reality, given the size and nature and complexity of the Russian offensive against the United Kingdom and against Nato generally, I dont think that 2.5 per cent of GDP will be enough, not least because the kind of things weve got to spend on are not just conventional forces - Army, Navy and Air Force - but very complex, high tech resistance to the technological challenges that the Russians, particularly and to some extent the Chinese, but mainly the Russians, pose to us. He added: Three, four per cent of GDP is a realistic objective. Now I dont expect any minister to announce that thats the objective, but thats where weve got to go because our security is imperilled. 'And whilst the focus in the last 30 odd 40 years has naturally been against domestic terrorism, or indeed foreign terrorism, and thats been completely necessary, theres no question about that. The exterior threat now comes from the efforts at strategic disruption by the Kremlin. Former Labour leader Neil Kinnock has urged ministers to commit to billions of pounds more spending on defence Lord Kinnock said Britain's security was 'imperilled' and that an objective of three or four per cent of GDP would be 'realistic' (pictured: Yars intercontinental ballistic missile being launched as part of nuclear deterrence forces drills from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in Russia) A grab taken from footage released by the Russian Defence Ministry on March 1, 2024 purporting to show the test firing of an intercontinental ballistic missile Efforts at strategic disruption by the Kremlin were now the UK's main exterior threat, Lord Kinnock said. Pictured: Vladimir Putin His intervention came amid growing concern about Britains ability to defend itself against the kind of ballistic missile attack regularly suffered by Israel. According to the Sunday Times, a draft Nato document to be discussed by the military alliances leaders this year raises the need for the UK to invest in air defence systems to protect critical national infrastructure such as nuclear power stations and military bases from attack. Royal Navy warships are also said to be at risk of being sunk by ballistic missiles developed by states like Iran and Russia, which has boasted that its latest hypersonic devices are unstoppable. A senior defence source said the UK was already in peril and warned that within 15 years a ballistic missile will be able to hit Britain from anywhere in the world. Britain currently spends 2.3 per cent of GDP on defence. A strategic defence review led by former Nato chief Lord Robertson is currently looking at the threats faced by the UK and is expected to recommend the figure is raised to at least 2.5 per cent. But a final decision on when to increase the defence budget is not expected until June when Rachel Reeves is expected to publish a timetable for hitting the 2.5 per cent target. Britains current defence spending is above Natos two per cent minimum. But analysis suggests it falls to just 1.6 per cent on conventional defence when commitments like the Trident nuclear deterrent are excluded. Donald Trump is expected to push Nato leaders to increase defence spending to as much as five per cent when he returns to the White House this month. Rules on sending criminals to open jails could be relaxed by Labour ministers despite fears it risks worsening unrest. The Government is looking at allowing inmates to be held in open conditions for up to five years before their release rather than the current three, according to reports. A separate move would also see a permanent change to official guidance which allows offenders to be placed in open jails even if they warn prison officers they may abscond. The move was first introduced temporarily under the last government in 2023 but could become permanent, the Observer reported. Figures obtained by the paper showed that 143 criminals absconded from the lowest security jails in England and Wales between January 2022 and March last year, and prison sources said more went missing over the Christmas period. National chairman of the Prison Officers Association Mark Fairhurst predicted that if the measures go ahead its inevitable violence will rise, drug abuse will rise, absconds will rise. He said: The open estate is supposed to be trusted conditions. Putting people with five years left into that world is going to destabilise it even further. The majority of people accessing the open estate now would never have previously been transferred, but theyve relaxed the criteria so much just to fill the space. Figures obtained by the paper showed that 143 criminals absconded from the lowest security jails in England and Wales between January 2022 and March 2024 (file photo) Prisoners being released from HMP Pentonville in London last September. The Government is reportedly looking at allowing inmates to be held in open conditions for up to five years before their release rather than the current three He added: Weve got people refusing to work, people who are high on spice, people who are just walking out - we had absconds over Christmas. You can just walk out, but you can also walk back in with loads of drugs and alcohol on you because theres no searches. Open jails have lower security measures and allow inmates to leave the premises during the day to attend work and education. Last month former Conservative Cabinet minister David Gauke, who is leading a review of sentencing policy for Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood, said he wanted to see wider use of open jails. Labour has already released at least 3,100 criminals early under a scheme which came into force in September, and is extending a separate scheme allowing more inmates to be freed on electronic tag. Ms Mahmood said the schemes were necessary to avoid total collapse in the justice system as the prison population hit a record high of 89,000. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood said early release schemes were necessary to avoid a collapse in the justice system amid a record prison population National chairman of the Prison Officers Association Mark Fairhurst predicted the plan would see an increase in violence, drug abuse and absconds Last week it had fallen to 85,618, with about 3,000 spare places available. An MoJ spokesman said: Only less serious offenders who meet strict criteria are eligible for moves to open conditions. Those who abscond face serious consequences, including being returned to closed conditions and serving an additional two years. The new government inherited a prison system on the point of collapse. We have taken the necessary action to stop our prisons from overflowing and to protect the public. A woman has posted a haunting message from beyond the grave after she died from cancer years after receiving a kidney transplant. Western Australian woman Christie Louis, 38, died on Friday after melanoma spread throughout her body and to her brain. Ms Louis' younger sister Kathleen Francis posted her final message on Facebook. 'Hi everyone. Well, if you are reading this post my time has come to an end,' it read. 'I asked my sister to post on my page. My latest battle was melanoma. By the time they found it the cancer had spread and was stage 4. 'I fought it hard with medication and radiation, but it made its way to my brain and I was left with only a few weeks to live. 'In the last days sepsis set in and it was a quick process from there. I passed away on the 3/1 with my beautiful Max (her dog) by my side. 'Thank you to everyone who made my life a brighter place and helped me through each hurdle (there were many). Christie xx.' A woman has posted a haunting message from beyond the grave after she received a kidney transplant and died from cancer years later Ms Louis had a kidney transplant in 2021. She was diagnosed with melanoma at the end of July 2024. She wrote how that her immune system 'was so low it couldn't fight the melanoma and it went rampant'. Ms Louis posted on Facebook in September 2024: '#fucancer who knew a transplant could give you terminal stage 4 malignant metastatic melanoma.' Ms Francis has created a GoFundMe to help raise funds for her sister's funeral, wanting 'a beautiful send off for our beautiful angel'. She said her sister had 'many medical challenges in her short 38 years' but that she 'took all medications prescribed and I really thought if anyone can beat this it would be her'. Western Australian woman Christie Louis, 38, died on Friday after her melanoma spread throughout her body and to her brain 'Her first 3 month check the medications had done an amazing job and Christie was in high spirits that she had a lot of time left,' she wrote. However she was informed by doctors on December 3 the cancer had spread to her brain and she was given only three to four weeks to live. She began radiation to buy more time and had almost completed the treatment when seizures began. Ms Louis was admitted to hospital on December 30 with severe sepsis and transferred to a hospice the next day before she died last week. Ms Francis wrote her sister 'had the biggest heart and even till the very end all she wanted was a reassuring cuddle'. 'I miss her with all my heart and my goal now is to have a celebration of her life that she will be watching from above and wishing she was there,' she wrote. Devastated friends shared tributes following the news of Ms Louis' death. 'Oh Chrissy - you have suffered so bravely for so long. May you fly high and rest in peace. Sending healing thoughts to your family,' one wrote. 'Our friendship meant the world to me. Rest well my dear friend,' another wrote.' Associate professor Peter Hughes, who is lead physician for transplantation at Royal Melbourne Hospital, told Daily Mail that transplants provided patients with a better quality of life. 'As with any major procedure, receiving a transplant comes with risk and it's important this is discussed between patient and doctor at an early stage,' he said. 'People who receive an organ transplant can be at greater risk of some cancers due to the immunosuppression - that is, the medication used to reduce the chance of rejection of the transplant. 'But, on average, patients who receive a transplant have much better health, live longer and have a better quality of life than those who, in the instance of kidney transplants, remain on dialysis.' Joe Biden bungled a rendition of Happy Birthday after he invited a young man on stage to celebrate - in the latest embarrassing gaffe for the aging lame duck president. President Biden, 82, was singing into a microphone as a crowd full of people watched when he suddenly forgot the man's name - and the lyric - leading to an awkward gap in the song. The man took the gaffe well, laughing it off as Biden's voice trailed off at the part of the song he didn't know, before picking up again for the end of the song. 'Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday to...,' he sung into the microphone. Video of the blunder has now gone viral, prompting critics to brand the President an 'embarrassment' and begin a countdown for Donald Trump's inauguration. 'Biden brought a guy on stage to sing happy birthday to him... The problem is he either doesn't know his name or forgot it... and mumbled nonsense instead,' one wrote. 'Joe Biden has no clue who hes singing happy birthday to, this administration is a joke,' another added. Biden has faced mounting concern about his health after suffering a steady stream of mishaps which got progressively worse throughout his presidency. The President, 82, was singing into a microphone in front of a crowd full of people when he forgot the man's name, leading to an awkward gap in the song Speculation was at an all-time high after his campaign-ending debate against Trump while he was still in the running for re-election. He appeared confused, slack-jawed and Trump ran circles around him at every opportunity. In the wake of the backlash, he dropped out of the race and Kamala Harris went on to become the Democrat nominee. The president's health has been back in the news since The Wall Street Journal published a story on December 19 on how aides dealt with a 'diminished' president throughout his entire term. The report revealed that aides would have to repeat obvious instructions to Biden such as where to exit a stage, put other officials into roles usually occupied by the president, scrapped meetings on his 'bad days', and kept him at arm's length from his own Cabinet members. His term was riddled with embarrassing gaffes and blunders, including introducing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as 'President Putin' at the NATO summit in July, bumping into flagpoles and falling off bikes. Toward the end of 2023, President Biden began experiencing more frequent and embarrassing mishaps which indicated he was not up to the task of another four years running the country. At a private fundraising event in New York in September 2023, Biden repeated the same story twice within minutes, about how events in Charlottesville, Virginia in 2017, and the reaction of Donald Trump, inspired him to run for the White House. On Aug 11, 2017 white supremacists and neo-Nazis descended on the city and clashes continued into the following day. Biden has faced mounting concern about his health after suffering a steady stream of mishaps which got progressively worse throughout his presidency Speculation was at an all-time high after his campaign-ending debate against Trump while he was still in the running for re-election President Joe Biden looked spritely as he was greeted with applause on Sunday According to a White House report of the private event, he began speaking just after 4pm in a living room in front of about two dozen people. After briefly talking about his economic record, he reflected on his decision to seek the presidency and 'talked about the events of Charlottesville' as the reason for his campaign, the report said. 'A few minutes later, he told the story again, nearly word for word,' the report stated. Then just weeks later in late September, ailing Biden seemed to produce gaffe after gaffe while on the UN stage alongside Brazil's President, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Lula da Silva, 78, looked visibly irritated after the two leaders shared a stage to speak about their initiative to improve workers' rights in each country - because Biden walked off without shaking his hand. Their diplomatic meeting got off to a labored start when Biden shuffled into a seven-foot Brazilian flag, leaving it teetering as he approached the podium. Two days later on September 22 during a keynote speech in Washington, DC, Biden mistakenly praised the 'Congressional Black Caucus' during a speech to the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. Then came the June 2024 car crash debate with Trump, which ultimately cost him the candidacy for the Presidential election. President Joe Biden appeared to 'wander off' into the Amazon rainforest in November Twice during a discussion with African officials and US business leaders who are investing in the Lobito Trans-Africa Corridor, the 82-year-old president closed his eyes for at least a minute Since then, he's been serving in somewhat of a caretaker Presidential role until Trump resumes control of the White House later this month. Even still, Biden's blunders have been mounting. In November, he was seen 'wandering off' into the Amazon rainforest during an official visit, and just last month he appeared to doze off on screen during a visit to Angola. Twice during a discussion with African officials and US business leaders who are investing in the Lobito Trans-Africa Corridor, the 82-year-old president closed his eyes for at least a minute. At one point, his hand twitched and he dropped something. Reporters traveling with him noted Biden looked tired. The president was on the final day of a three-day trip to sub-Saharan Africa. In one session, he referred to Ukrainian President Zelensky as President Putin, and to Vice President Kamala Harris as Vice President Trump. A man wearing a backpack on a flight from Sydney to Kuala Lumpur was heard using the word 'bomb', terrifying the almost 200 passengers and crew on board. Muhammad Arif wore his backpack on his chest when he stood up in the aisle of Malaysia Airlines flight MH122 of August 14, 2023 and argued with other travellers. Arif, 46, prayed, chanted and laughed before the plane even then took off from Sydney that afternoon, and the crew moved 'concerned passengers' to other seats. But 90 minutes into the flight, those concerns quickly ratcheted up to a mid-air emergency when 'a number of passengers witnessed the offender use the word "bomb",' according to the agreed facts obtained by the Sydney Morning Herald. Two crew members tried to get Arif to sit down again and prevented him from moving towards the cockpit. He pointed at one of the flight attendants and called them 'dajjal', which means anti-Christ in Arabic. He also told them to 'move back' and 'get lost'. As they tried to coax Arif back to his seat, he had his hand inside his backpack. 'Don't touch, don't touch, don't touch, don't touch my bag,' he said. 'If you love your life, don't touch my bag. If you love your life, if you love Allah, don't touch my bag.' Muhammad Arif (pictured right) stood up in the aisle of Malaysia Airlines flight MH122 of August 14, 2023 and argued with other travellers Arif (pictured left) prayed, chanted and laughed before the plane even then took off from Sydney that afternoon, and the crew moved 'concerned passengers' to other seats Arif said 'Allahu akbar' - a Muslim prayer meaning 'God is most great' - a dozen times, and one of the crew put a hand on the backpack, according to court documents. 'Don't come near my bag. If you come near my bag, it might explode,' he said. 'You need to move back. You have no idea what I have in here so move back.' When a passenger told him he could 'knock him out in two seconds', Arif said 'do it', adding that the man had the heart of a mouse. Arif, whose marriage had broken down and who had just quit his job as a security guard in Canberra, then told a female passenger he was going to count to three. This led a flight attendant, who feared 'for the safety of the aircraft', to report what was happening to the captain of the Airbus-A330, which by then was flying over north-western NSW. The captain advised air traffic control 'of the offender making threats regarding explosive devices', turned the plane around and flew back to Sydney, landing at 3.47pm. There were 199 people on the plane, with Arif originally in seat 21G on a one-way ticket to Pakistan via Malaysia's capital Kuala Lumpur and Oman. The plane was stuck on the tarmac for three hours, causing serious disruption to the airport's operations. A woman on the flight posted on Twitter (pictured) that she had 'never been so scared' Malaysia Airlines MH122 Airbus-A330 is pictured at Sydney International Airport on August 14, 2023 Passengers are pictured leaving the plane after the emergency situation was brought under control More than 30 flights were cancelled and others delayed, with the airport only able to use one runway as the emergency services surrounded the Malaysia Airlines plane. From 4.55pm to 5.05pm, Arif stood in the aisle and said: 'This was all (a) hoax. This was all acting. I used to be an actor. 'I know I might be going to jail now. I don't care. This was a test from God, for them, for a Muslim to fight a Muslim, to save you guys. And you say bomb, you do bomb, it burns my heart.' At around 6.30pm, Australian Federal Police (AFP) officers boarded the plane and arrested Arif. The A330 and Arif's belongings were checked for bombs, but no explosive devices were found. 'An emergency response plan was enacted and an evacuation was initiated once it was deemed safe for passengers and crew,' the AFP said at the time. Arif refused to answer questions from the police and was taken to a hospital for a mental health check. The next morning, he was found by doctors to be 'fit' for custody and was held for four months before being granted bail. A woman on the flight posted on social media platform X that she had 'never been so scared'. Another told a TV crew that she knew the plane had turned around because she could see it doing so on the in-flight screen. The court documents recorded that Arif bought a $51 bus ticket to Sydney, then bought a plane ticket from a Flight Centre outlet in the international airport. He also withdrew $6,000 in cash from a bank machine, then 'paced back and forth for about one hour' before boarding at gate 50 and sitting with his backpack on his lap. Before the flight took off, he was told he had to put his bag in the overhead locker, otherwise he would be not be allowed to fly. Arif pleaded guilty to making a false statement about a plan, proposal, attempt, conspiracy or threat to destroy, damage or endanger the safety of Malaysia Airlines flight MH122. He was sentenced to a 14-month term of imprisonment to be served as an intensive correction order in the community by Judge David Barrow. The order's conditions, which expire in February 2026, mean Arif must not reoffend and must comply with directions about his mental health treatment, including the advice of a psychiatrist. Daily Mail Australia has contacted Malaysia Airlines for comment. A firm managing Prince Andrew's private investments has shut down in a fresh blow to the shamed Duke. Urramoor limited, which Andrew, 64, had 'significant control over' has applied to be struck off and dissolved, documents filed to Companies House this week show. It comes just a year after the investment company was bailed out by a mystery donor. Urramoor somehow secured 210,000 worth of funding in the form of non-redeemable shares in December 2023, documents filed at the time revealed. The company was 208,000 in the red before it received the cash from an anonymous source. Prince Andrew initially up the investment fund under the name HRH Andrew Inverness in 2013. It was established around 18 months after his trade envoy role was taken off him due to his association with Jeffrey Epstein. But the company failed to make any profit in the nine sets of accounts it filed since its creation. Prince Andrew attends the Endurance event on day three of the Royal Windsor Horse Show in Windsor Great Park on May 12, 2017 Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park, the home of Prince Andrew The Duke of York The decision to shut Urramoor down was signed by the company's director Arthur Lancaster on January 3. MailOnline has contacted the Duke of York for comment. The news comes just days after it was revealed that more than 230,000 had been pulled from Prince Andrew's Dragon's Den-style initiative Pitch@Palace - which is also run by Mr Lancaster. During the financial year up until March 31, 2024, the amount of cash at hand and in the bank at the firm decreased by half, from 454,979 to 220,990. The accounts, which were filed to Companies House on December 30, show the withdrawal was signed by Mr Lancaster, on behalf of the board. However, mystery surrounds what the money has been used for or to whom it has been paid. It comes amid concerns about the future of the Duke of York's Pitch@Palace scheme after it emerged that a former boss at the company was an alleged spy. Yang Tengbo, 50, was appointed founder of the programme's enterprise in China and has been described as a 'close confidante' of the Duke of York. The Duke of York speaks during a Pitch@Palace event - the scheme was set up to support entrepreneurs Yang Tengbo, 50, was appointed founder of the programme's enterprise in China and has been described as a 'close confidante' of the Duke of York (pictured together) The business man has visited Prince Andrew at Buckingham Palace and was also invited to his 60th birthday party. Mr Yang is suspected by the security services of being associated with the United Front Work Department [UFWD] the secretive arm of the Chinese government that organises Beijing's cultural influences overseas. He was first stopped from entering the UK under counter-terror laws in 2021 and his devices were seized, with documents retrieved later revealing his links to Andrew. He was taken off a flight to London in 2023, with the then-home secretary Suella Braverman upholding the decision to cancel his residency rights in March of that year because it would be 'conducive to the public good.' Mr Yang has said allegations he is a spy are 'ill-founded' and 'entirely untrue', adding: 'The political climate has changed, and unfortunately, I have fallen victim to this. 'When relations are good, and Chinese investment is sought, I am welcome in the UK. When relations sour, an anti-China stance is taken, and I am excluded.' Delhi polls, Congress pledges Rs 2,500 a month for women The Delhi Congress on Monday announced the Pyari Didi Yojana' to give monthly financial assistance of Rs 2,500 to all eligible women in the city if it comes to power in the upcoming Assembly elections. To impress Delhi voters, the party also invited Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar to the media briefing where he highlighted the success of a similar scheme in his state and called it a role model even for the BJP-ruled states. The Pyari Didi Yojana will be approved in the very first Cabinet meeting of the Congress after it wins in Delhi, said Shivakumar, seeking votes for the Congress based on the Karnataka model. He shared details of the welfare model of the Congress implemented in his state, including monthly financial assistance to women and free travel for women in public buses. The Congress has delivered whatever promise it has made in any part of the country, said Shivakumar, assuring Delhi women of the promised financial assistance. He said the BJP has been mocking Congress guarantees claiming that the Karnataka government will go bankrupt, but the saffron party later copied the same model in states like Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Haryana. The financial assistance that the Congress is giving is meant to help people fight price rise and offer relief to troubled families, he said, highlighting that the Congress has served the country for decades and is confident of returning to power in Delhi. Qazi Nizamuddin, AICC in charge of the Delhi Congress unit, said, The Congress has its credibility and today it is launching its first social scheme. The Congress is known for social welfare while the BJP has only been making false promises, including that of depositing Rs 15 lakh to each citizens bank account or generating jobs. Calling the Rs 2,000 monthly assistance scheme Gruha Lakshmi in Karnataka a success story, he highlighted that the Congress government in the southern state approved the social welfare schemes in its first Cabinet meeting. Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav also launched a tagline for the election campaign, Hogi har zaroorat puri, Congress hai zaroori (Congress is indispensable for fulfilling all basic needs). Yadav said over 1.2 crore women in Karnataka are getting Rs 2,000 in their bank accounts every month under the Gruha Lakshmi scheme, 10 kg rice is being given free to 4 crore people in Karnataka and 1.89 lakh jobless youth are benefitting from Rs 216.93 crore being spent on schemes meant for them. Each family in Karnataka is saving around Rs 4,000-5,000 every month, bringing a change in their lives, and schemes like these will be implemented in Delhi as well, he said, highlighting that Congress has fulfilled its guarantees in Karnataka, Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand and did so earlier in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. He hit out at AAPs former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, without naming him, for selling dreams to people but not doing anything to improve infrastructure in the city, including schools, power, and water. Calling Kejriwal a dream seller, Yadav said the AAP has also failed to fight corruption as it had promised. A Montana man who fatally shot his wife and a bartender in a jealous rage will spend the rest of his life behind bars. Kraig Walter Benson was sentenced Friday to 140 years in prison for the August 2023 slaying of his wife Jenny, 49, and bartender Logan Gardner, 43, at the Four Acres Bar in Superior. He received 60 years for each count of deliberate homicide, as well as an additional 10 years for using a weapon in a violent crime, KRTV reports. Benson was found guilty of the homicides in October, after video surveillance of the dive bar showed him and his wife sitting at a table together, when he suddenly gets up to smoke a cigarette outside, according to Law & Crime. He could then be seen taking a gun from his wife's Chevy Tahoe and returning to the bar, where Jenny is sitting on a stool by the bar as Gardner is bartending. Benson then pulls the gun from his waistband and shoots Jenny in the head, causing her to fall onto the ground as he extends the firearm over the bar to Gardner, who tries to flee the scene. At that point, the footage shows Benson shooting his wife a second time as she lies on the floor and Gardner three more times, even though he is already lying on the floor near the entrance to the bar. Benson then fled the scene in his wife's car, and Gardner was later pronounced dead at the scene, with Jenny dying a short time later at a local hospital. Kraig Walter Benson was sentenced Friday to 140 years in prison He was caught on camera firing a weapon at his wife, Jenny, 49, and bartender Logan Gardner, 43, at the Four Acres Bar in Superior The suspect was ultimately located the following day, when he continued to drive his wife's Tahoe with a flat tire on a Missoula County highway. Following his arrest, Benson repeatedly argued his wife was being unfaithful - and claimed he had no memory of the shooting. During cross examination at his trial, Kraig testified that his wife 'told me that she was not going to go home with me, that she was going to go home with Logan. 'I went outside and I'm pretty sure that's why I went outside... and was going back into the bar and having the last conversation.' Prior to sentencing Friday, Benson also claimed he 'too lost my best friend that night... the love of my life' and admitted 'having no memory is no excuse.' But he also continued to place the blame on his late wife. 'At trial, the state made Jenny seem like an angel, a person with no flaws - they were wrong,' Benson argued, according to NBC Montana. 'Since my arrest, through the discovery process, it shows another side of my wife of 22 years.' Agent Ward, of the Division of Criminal Investigation, even testified during the trial that Benson made phone calls from jail mentioning that he wanted to take a paternity test for his two daughters he shared with Jenny. Benson was arrested the following day, when he drove his wife's Tahoe with a flat tire on a Missoula County highway One of his daughters, Paige, then called her father 'narcissistic' in a victim impact statement during his sentencing hearing as she spoke lovingly about her late mother. She and her sister went on to say they do not feel safe with Benson in the world Jenny's father, Terry Savage, meanwhile, teared up in court as he said, 'Jenny was my only daughter, the joy of my life, my best friend.' He added that he hopes Benson has a 'miserable' life in prison. Others also called Benson a 'monster,' with some claiming they still have post traumatic stress from the grisly double murder. He will now serve his sentence at the Montana State Prison. Justin Welby is spending his final day as Archbishop of Canterbury, as he prepares to step down over failures in handling a Church of England abuse scandal. Almost two months after announcing his resignation, he will officially quit the role today. It follows an independent review which concluded barrister and Christian camp leader John Smyth - thought to have been the most prolific serial abuser to be associated with the Church - might have been brought to justice had Mr Welby formally reported him to police in 2013. The Archbishop has made few public appearances since mid-November, and did not give the traditional Christmas Day sermon from Canterbury Cathedral. While in his initial resignation statement on November 12 he said he was stepping down in sorrow with all victims and survivors of abuse, he had to issue an apology later that month following his final speech in the House of Lords. On that occasion he was accused of making light of serious safeguarding failures in the Church, with an abuse survivor branding the speech - which referenced a 14th century beheading and prompted laughter from some peers - tone deaf. In recent weeks a major charity, The Childrens Society, also rejected a Christmas donation from Mr Welby saying that accepting it would not be consistent with the principles and values that underpin our work. Mr Welby is said to be spending today [Monday] privately at his London residence, Lambeth Palace, attending a lunchtime Eucharist and later a service of Evensong. Almost two months after announcing his resignation Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby (pictured) will officially quit the role today John Smyth QC (pictured) is believed to be the most prolific serial abuser to be associated with the Church of England Lambeth Palace the grounds of Lambeth Palace, the official residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury It is during the latter that he will lay down his bishops crozier - a ceremonial long staff - in a symbolic act which marks the official end of his ministry as Archbishop of Canterbury. From tomorrow [Tuesday], most of the official functions normally held by the Archbishop of Canterbury will be delegated to the Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell while some will go to the Bishop of London Dame Sarah Mullally, and the diocesan functions will be carried out by the Bishop of Dover Rose Hudson-Wilkin. Mr Cottrell has also faced calls to resign over his handling of a separate abuse case but, appearing to reject those calls in recent weeks, he has pledged to do what I can to bring about independent scrutiny of safeguarding in the Church. The process to replace Mr Welby is expected to take months, with an announcement about a new archbishop of Canterbury possible in autumn. Who could be the next Archbishop of Canterbury? The Church of England is on the search for the 106th archbishop of Canterbury.The role had been held for more than a decade by Justin Welby, until his resignation over failures in handling a church abuse scandal. There are more than 100 bishops in the Church of England, including 42 diocesan bishops.Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell appeared to rule himself out last year, and has since faced calls to resign over perceived failures in his handling of a separate abuse case. Here, is a look at some of the names who could be in the running. Dame Sarah Mullally, Bishop of London Dame Sarah Mullally sits in the House of Lords and was sworn in as a member of the Privy Council in March 2018 The former nurse was the youngest person to be appointed chief nursing officer for England in 1999. She sits in the House of Lords and was sworn in as a member of the Privy Council in March 2018. She was made a Dame Commander of the British Empire in 2005 for her contribution to nursing and midwifery. She is married with two children and is a novice potter. She is taking on the metropolitan functions usually held by the archbishop of Canterbury in the interim period while the post is vacant. Dr Guli Francis-Dehqani, Bishop of Chelmsford Born in Iran, Bishop Gulis family fled in the wake of the Iranian revolution in 1980, when she was just a teenager. Her brother Bahram was murdered in the revolution, and she previously spoke about how it affected her family. She told BBC Radio 4s Desert Island Discs: Weve spent a lifetime coming to terms with it. In a sense, it was his sacrifice that brought us here. I dont think my mum and my sister and I would have left if we hadnt had a very good reason to. So he gave us the gift of a chance of a new life in this country. She has been Bishop of Chelmsford since April 2021 and is the lead bishop for housing for the Church of England. She is married with three children. Graham Usher, Bishop of Norwich King Charles III holds an audience with Graham Usher, Bishop of Norwich (pictured), at Buckingham Palace The ecologist and keen beekeeper is the churchs lead bishop on the environment. He became the 72nd Bishop of Norwich in June 2019 and is patron or president of more than 25 charities. He is married with two children. Michael Beasley, Bishop of Bath and Wells The former epidemiologist was a member of the Church of Englands Covid task force during the pandemic. He was also part of efforts by Unicef and the NHS to launch Cakhia TV - Xem Truc Tiep Bong a, Link Truc Tuyen hom nay which raised more than 10 million in support of vaccination for low-income countries. He is married and became the 80th Bishop of Bath and Wells in 2022. Martyn Snow, Bishop of Leicester Martyn Snow, Bishop of Leicester studied chemistry at the University of Sheffield and became the seventh Bishop of Leicester in 2016 Born in Indonesia, he studied chemistry at the University of Sheffield and then worked with the Crown Prosecution Service. He became the seventh Bishop of Leicester in 2016. As well as being a supporter of Leicester City and Leicester Tigers, his interests are said to include music and hill walking. He is married and at one stage worked in Guinea in West Africa with the local church alongside his wife. Rose Hudson-Wilkin, Bishop of Dover Bishop of Dover Rose Hudson-Wilkin (pictured) was a priest in Hackney, London, for almost 17 years, and in 2007 she was appointed as a chaplain to Queen Elizabeth II Born in Jamaica, she trained for ordination at Queens Theological College and was ordained a deacon in 1991 and a priest in 1994. Bishop Rose was a priest in Hackney, London, for almost 17 years, and in 2007 she was appointed as a chaplain to Queen Elizabeth II. She became the first woman appointed to the position of the 79th Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons in 2010. She was announced in 2019 as the Bishop of Dover, becoming the Church of Englands first black female bishop. Her husband Kenneth is a prison chaplain and they have three children. Bishop Rose will take on diocesan functions usually held by the archbishop of Canterbury while the post is vacant. Helen-Ann Hartley, Bishop of Newcastle Helen-Ann Hartley, Bishop of Newcastle has been outspoken regarding the Churchs safeguarding, becoming the only bishop to call publicly for Mr Welbys resignation Ordained into the Church of England in 2005 as deacon in the Diocese of Oxford, she became a priest the following year - following in her own fathers footsteps as he was also a priest in the Church. Born in Edinburgh, she spent her early years living in the Scottish Borders before moving with her family to Sunderland. She served for a time in New Zealand before being announced as Bishop of Ripon in 2017, and she became Bishop of Newcastle following a service of inauguration at Newcastle Cathedral in April 2023. She has been outspoken regarding the Churchs safeguarding, becoming the only bishop to call publicly for Mr Welbys resignation and also criticising Mr Cottrell over his handling of abuse in the church. Donald Trump's incoming border czar Tom Homan signaled Sunday that he is close to finding a nation that will take deported migrants whose home country will not accept them. The scheme is a key part of Trump's plan for what he calls the 'largest deportation in history. But it comes with a snag. What to do with illegal immigrants from countries that don't want them back? Homan told DailyMail.com that he is already in negotiations to find an alternative destination in countries that are prepared to house them. 'I'm not waiting for January 20 [when Trump is inaugurated], said Homan. 'We are already having discussions. So we'll find a third country. 'Until they've signed an agreement, and we've got that, I'm not going to take any credit.' The idea has floated around Washington, D.C., for months, inspired in part by the way the United Kingdom struck a deal with the small African nation of Rwanda to house refugees. However, that scheme was hindered by round after round of legal challenge and finally abandoned by the new Labour government of Keir Starmer this year. Donald Trump's border czar Tom Homan spoke to donors on Sunday evening, and told DailyMail.com he is in talks to find countries that will take deported migrants Trump has promised the biggest deportation in history when he takes office on January 20. Migrants from Ecuador and India sit together by a fire while waiting to beapprehended by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol officers after crossing over a section of border wall into the U.S. on January 05, 2025 in Ruby, Arizona And a Trump effort in 2019 to send migrants from third countries was challenged by The American Civil Liberties Union and other immigrant rights groups, which said sending vulnerable people to unfamiliar countries put them at risk. Homan declined to discuss which countries he was in talks with. But previous reports suggested Turks and Caicos, the Bahamas, Panama and Grenada were possible destinations. The Bahamas has since ruled out the idea. But Guatemala may provide an alternative after an official told Reuters the country might be open to the idea. Trump made cracking down on illegal immigration the cornerstone of his reelection campaign. And Homan, a former police officer and the acting head of Immigration and Customs Enforcement during Trump's first term, will have a key role. He said Trump had given him three priorities: Securing the border; launching a deportation drive; and hunting down what he said were 300,000 undocumented children who had gone missing in the U.S. 'Everything changes on January 20,' said Homan, during a roundtable with donors and supporters in Naples, Florida. Tackling illegal immigration was a key part of Trump's campaign, making Homan one of his most important picks in the administration He admitted that it would be hard to scale up a deportation operation rapidly. 'We have limited facilities, but we're gonna do everything we can with what we have,' he said. 'I'm hoping Congress acts quickly on a budget.' He said $86 billion, a figure suggested in Congress, was a good starting point to begin to fund the beds and operational costs needed. 'Say someone in is illegal. Let's say he's a criminal. He's convicted of murder, originally from El Salvador,' he said. 'I can't put him on an airplane on day one. You gotta detain him long enough to get travel documents, get landing rights. El Salvador has to admit that it's their national. 'That takes a few days to a few weeks. So I need beds.' With beds occupied for about 30 days at a time, he said he needed thousands more. 'That's why every interview I do I said I gotta have the money from Congress,' he said. 'I think Congress got a strong message in November. American people want this to happen, so make it happen. Give us the money we need. Vandals have sprayed anti-Semitic graffiti on a car in Sydney's eastern suburbs, in yet another incident of 'hatred' that has been slammed by Jewish leaders. The white car was found spray painted with the words 'F**k the Jews' on Henry St in Queens Park on Monday morning, a suburb with a large Jewish community. Executive Council of Australian chair Jewry Alex Ryvchin was incensed by the vile act. 'Sydney. Again,' he said. 'Another suburb with a large Jewish community and multiple Jewish communal facilities. 'No one just vandalises a car with a racist slogan. It is the product of endless incitement, demonisation and a belief that such attitudes are freely permitted, even celebrated,' Mr Ryvchin told Daily Mail Australia. 'It also demonstrates how the racist targeting of Jews impacts wider society.' NSW Jewish Board of Deputies president David Ossip said Australians must not 'allow ourselves to become desensitised to acts of Jew-hatred and allow illegal conduct ... (like) this to become normalised'. Vandals have sprayed anti-Semitic graffiti on a car in Sydney's eastern suburbs, in yet another incident of 'hatred' that has been slammed by Jewish leaders Anti-Defamation Commission Chairman Dr Dvir Abramovich said the vile defacement was 'yet another chilling chapter in the rising tide of antisemitism that has swept across our nation since October 7'. 'This is not an isolated incidentits part of an alarming pattern, a relentless drumbeat of hate that is growing louder with each passing day,' he said. 'From firebombing a synagogue to online threats to terrifying marches in the streets and now this shocking act of vandalism, it feels as though the walls of safety and tolerance are being chipped away.' NSW Police were alerted to the graffiti about 5.40am on Monday. They believe the vandalism occurred between 7am Sunday and when they were notified. Forensic police officers were at the scene on Monday morning dusting the car for clues. A Jewish resident told the Daily Telegraph they were shocked to see the vandalised car parked 1km from major Jewish day school Moriah College but that such racist attacks were happening daily. 'I was on my way to work when I saw it and was shocked and deeply saddened by the assault on the Jewish community, it's happening every day now,' Michael Goldstein said. 'The escalation of vandalism and inaction from the authorities just emboldens the cowards. There is virtually no recourse or punishment for this conduct. 'One minute, the anti-Semitic vandals are targeting buildings, next they go for cars and bikes, soon it will be people. Sydney's eastern suburbs saw cars vandalised with anti-Israel graffiti while a vehicle was set alight in November last year. In December, multiple cars and buildings in Sydney's east were again covered with anti-Israel slogans, including kill Israel and death 2 Israel with another car torched. Police have urged anyone with information about the latest incident to contact CrimeStoppers. Cybertruck bomber Matthew Livelsberger had been experiencing paranoia and nightmares years prior to his death outside Trump International Hotel, an ex-girlfriend has revealed. Alicia Arritt said the 37-year-old special forces soldier was displaying signs of PTSD from as early as 2018, when they started dating. The pair met on a dating app after Livelsberger separated from his first wife, and dated for three years before he remarried. The two lost contact after their separation. But in perhaps a telling sign, Livelsberger reached out to Arritt in the days before his death to show off the rented Cybertruck. Now, Arritt has spoken out about Livelsberger's mental health concerns in an effort to shed light on his state of mind. 'He described all the same symptoms as a textbook,' she told 11 News, revealing she'd seen PTSD in veterans in her role as an Army nurse. 'In 2020, he was having paranoia and nightmares. He was exhausted and depressed. He was gaining weight and he couldn't think.' There are avenues to get help within the military, but Arritt said there is still a lot of stigma attached with mental health conditions, particularly in the high-level unit Livelsberger was a part of. His ex-girlfriend has shared screenshots of their conversation in the days before he died, revealing he was 'like a kid with a new toy' after picking up the Cybertruck used in the explosion Livelsberger, a former Green Beret and active US Army Ranger, shot himself in the head seconds before an improvised explosive detonated in the back of his rented truck Arritt has spoken out about Livelsberger's mental health concerns in an effort to shed light on his state of mind 'If he got flagged for having depression or having a TBI, he would've been made non-deployable and he absolutely did not want that. He wanted to be there for his guys,' Arritt said. 'The VA has gotten so much better about caring for these veterans, but active duty, they don't treat them. They just keep them in the war until they're used up and then the VA takes care of them after they're out.' Police allege Livelsberger, who was on an approved break from the military, hired the truck in Colorado and drove it across the border to Nevada on New Years Day. Within an hour of arriving in Las Vegas, he had detonated the truck full of makeshift explosives he had in the bed. Livelsberger was the only casualty of the incident, and police largely credit the hulking stainless steel Tesla truck for saving lives by containing the explosion. An Army spokesperson said soldiers have resources at their disposal to seek help. 'The U.S. Special Operations Command established the Preservation of the Force and Family (POTFF) program which provides holistic care in physical, cognitive, medical, and support resources as appropriate to each individual,' the spokesperson said. 'We encourage our Soldiers, if they need help, mental health treatment or need to speak with someone, to seek proactive behavioral health treatment either on base or online. The contents of the Cybertruck's tray, where the bomb was stored and detonated Cybertruck bomber Matthew Livelsberger claims China is stalking the US with advanced drones in an unhinged suicide note 'Master Sgt. Matthew Livelsberger had access to and used the POTFF program; he did not display any concerning behaviors at the time, and was granted personal leave. All relevant records were provided to the FBI as the lead investigative agency.' His death was initially being treated as a suspected terror attack, occurring hours after Shamsud Din Jabbar, 42, drove an electric vehicle into crowds in New Orleans. The Texan-born terrorist had an ISIS flag draped on the back of the vehicle when he drove into the crowds, and was also former military. But police have since unearthed apparent suicide notes from Livelsberger which rule out terror as his motive. Livelsberger sent the suicide email or 'manifesto' to retired US Army intelligence officer Sam Shoemate shortly before the bombing. The email claimed the mysterious drones seen flying over New Jersey and sometimes other parts of the east coast were Chinese weapons. Livelsberger warned they could be well armed, attack anywhere, and were 'most dangerous threat to national security that has ever existed'. Las Vegas police also shared excerpts from two other writings, recorded in the notes app on his phone, that indicated the bombing was to get attention for his concerns. Photos shared of Livelsberger from his days in the military Explosive blast killed one person and injured half a dozen more when it went off outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas on Wednesday 'I rented a Tesla Cybertruck. It's the s**t,' he text Alicia Arritt at 9am on Sunday. 'I feel like Batman or halo' 'We (the US) are terminally ill and headed towards collapse. This was not a terrorist attack, it was a wakeup call,' the letter read. 'Americans only pay attention to spectacles and violence - what better way to get my point across than a stunt with fireworks and explosives. 'Why did I personally do it now? I need to cleanse my mind, the brothers I've lost, and relieve myself of the burden of the lives that I took.' Across the nation, LGBTQ people are taking up arms, driven by fears of escalating political rhetoric, targeted legislation, and what many describe as the specter of persecution. As the Republican Party has pushed for increasingly restrictive policies on gender-affirming care and divisive policies, some LGBTQ Americans are turning to self-defense as their ultimate safeguard. 'It's all about survival,' said Matthew Thompson, a 36-year-old gay man from Oakland, New Jersey to the Philadelphia Inquirer. 'We're not looking to arm up and storm the Capitol. We just don't want to be put in concentration camps.' Thompson's words echo a sentiment growing louder within the LGBTQ community, especially in states where conservative lawmakers have advanced bans on gender-affirming care and portrayed transgender individuals as societal threats. For many, the idea of armed self-defense is no longer theoretical but something that feels essential. For a 24-year-old trans woman from Philadelphia named Amy, the decision to purchase her first firearm came after months of unease. As Texas upheld a ban on gender-affirming care for minors and Florida restricted access to hormone therapies, she felt an urgent need to prepare for her own safety. Across the nation, LGBTQ people are taking up arms, driven by fears of escalating political rhetoric, targeted legislation, and what many describe as the specter of persecution Some LGBTQ Americans are turning to self-defense as their ultimate safeguard Since Donald Trump's reelection, nontraditional gun groups have reported a surge in interest 'Three months before the election, that's when the alarm bells started to ring,' Amy said. By November 2, she had purchased a Ruger Security-380 pistol, driven by the belief that 'minorities that are armed are more difficult to legally oppress.' At an outdoor shooting range in Pennsylvania's French Creek State Park, Amy practiced her aim. Rainbow hearts and a 'Protect Trans Kids' sticker adorned her water bottle as spent bullet casings piled at her feet as each shot reaffirmed her sense of agency. She admitted how she never envisioned herself at a gun range, yet, as anti-LGBTQ rhetoric reached fever pitch across the nation in 2024, she decided couldn't wait for protection to come from anyone else. 'In the event of hate crimes or terrorist attacks, I know I'm personally armed and can protect my property and people close to me,' she said. 'I'm not trying to live in fear, but if no one else is going to protect me, then I will.' Amy first purchased her first gun at Delia's Gun Shop in Northeast Philadelphia in November and she is now applying for a concealed carry permit in Pennsylvania, though she doesn't plan to carry her weapon daily. Rainbow unicorns and the LGBTQ flag adorned her water bottle belonging to a member of The Liberal Gun Club For many, the idea of armed self-defense is no longer theoretical but something that feels essential Those joining Pink Pistols learn safe handling practices, and the realities of firearm ownership Amy's story is part of a larger movement. Since Donald Trump's reelection, nontraditional gun groups have reported a surge in interest. The Liberal Gun Club, a national organization that promotes firearm training for progressive Americans, has received thousands of new training requests, with LGBTQ individuals comprising nearly a quarter of those inquiries. In Philadelphia, queer-focused Facebook groups and forums have become hubs for discussions on gun training and ownership. The Socialist Rifle Association (SRA), a leftist alternative to the NRA, has experienced a similar influx. The Delaware Valley chapter reported a spike in memberships and saw its gun safety classes fill up faster than ever. The Pink Pistols, a longstanding LGBTQ gun advocacy group founded in 2000 with the slogan 'Armed Gays Don't Get Bashed,' has also noted a surge in inquiries with more than two dozen chapters across the United States 'There's definitely a feeling among LGBTQ individuals: 'If I can't protect myself, who will?' said Madeline Shearman, a trans woman who runs a gun safety group in Pennsylvania. 'I feel that way myself.' Shearman runs a growing '2A social group' for LGBTQ individuals, emphasizing responsible gun ownership and self-defense. Experts note that Americas gun culture is undergoing a seismic shift. Historically associated with hunting and recreation, firearms are now increasingly seen as tools of self-defense, especially by marginalized groups. The Pink Pistols, a longstanding LGBTQ gun advocacy group founded in 2000 with the slogan 'Armed Gays Don't Get Bashed,' has also noted a surge in inquiries with more than two dozen chapters across the United States The Liberal Gun Club, a national organization that promotes firearm training for progressive Americans, has received thousands of new training requests, with LGBTQ individuals comprising nearly a quarter of those inquiries Sociologist David Yamane, an expert on American gun culture, calls the shift among LGBTQ gun owners part of 'Gun Culture 2.0,' where self-defense replaces traditional hunting and recreation as the primary motivator for firearm purchases. Yamane points to the COVID-19 pandemic, racial justice protests, and the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando as pivotal moments that reshaped the nation's relationship with guns. 'It was a period of tremendous social unrest and uncertainty,' Yamane said. 'A large number of people in the United States, under those conditions, look to firearms to reestablish some sense of safety and security.' He added that racial and gender minorities led the charge in new gun ownership during this time. For many in the LGBTQ community, the Pulse shooting remains a haunting reminder of their vulnerability. Survivors like Brandon Wolf have since become outspoken advocates for preparedness, while others like Thompson have taken matters into their own hands. After Pulse, Thompson began practicing firearm drills at home, setting timers to simulate emergency situations and honing his ability to respond quickly. Despite the rush to arm, critics warn of the dangers associated with increased firearm access. Studies consistently show that higher rates of gun ownership correlate with higher rates of gun-related suicides, homicides, and accidents. Groups like the Socialist Rifle Association emphasize responsible gun ownership, mental health awareness, and safe storage to mitigate these risks. Historically associated with hunting and recreation, firearms are now increasingly seen as tools of self-defense, especially by marginalized groups. Pictured, shooters with Pink Pistols In Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St Paul, Minnesota, queer-focused Facebook groups and forums have become hubs for discussions on gun training and ownership For many in the LGBTQ community, the Pulse shooting remains a haunting reminder of their vulnerability. Pictured, Brandon Wolf, a survivor of the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting and activist, looks at the photos that are a part of the Pulse memorial in Orlando, Florida At a recent SRA training session in West Philadelphia, attendees learned the basics of Pennsylvania's gun laws, safe handling practices, and the realities of firearm ownership. Organizers stressed the duality of guns as tools of defense and potential sources of harm. 'Guns are weapons, and they're really good at what they do, which is killing things,' one instructor said. '85 percent of suicides attempted with firearms lead to death. So you have to be mindful if this is something you want to bring into your life.' Doug, a nonbinary therapist and first-time gun owner, attended the class before purchasing an AR-15. Concerned about potential future restrictions on firearm purchases for gender-nonspecific individuals, they said their decision was rooted in a broader distrust of the country's political trajectory. 'This country is not on very solid footing,' Doug said. 'As a Boy Scout, I'd rather be prepared.' Disturbing video shows the moment a Texas cop was flung from a convertible as he tried tried to make an arrest - prompting an unruly crowd to mock him as he lay unconscious. Footage from the parking lot outside Little Woodrow's in Beaumont shows a woman in a short dress running toward her red convertible and getting inside the driver's seat when a police officer tries to hop the rear door in an attempt to stop the woman. But the woman, who has since been identified as 28-year-old Jamaysha Butler, stepped on the gas - sending the officer flying head-first into the pavement. The cop was then seen laying on the ground with his arms spread, apparently unconscious, as others gathered around him, laughing at the officer and making vile comments. 'Yo, yo! Police! Step on my man!' one bystander could be heard shouting. Even more joined in online, as the video spread across social media. 'Beaumont police plays dead after woman smoothly escapes,' one person commented, according to the New York Post. 'Dude thought he was Paul Blart,' another sneered, referring to the bumbling security guard played by Kevin James in Mall Cop, while a third wrote: 'He said, "I'm a just lay here and pretend that didn't happen."' A Texas cop was flung from a convertible as he tried tried to make an arrest Friday morning The officer has since been identified as US Army and National Guard veteran Andrew Fitzer, 38 But the officer - who has since been identified as US Army and National Guard veteran Andrew Fitzer, 38 - suffered from a brain bleed in the aftermath, KFDM reports. He was taken to a hospital in Beaumont and was subsequently transferred to a facility in Houston, where he was listed in serious but stable condition. He was ultimately released from the hospital on Sunday. Meanwhile, other officers responded to Butler's home Friday morning, where they arrested her as she once again tried to flee. A probable cause document said she had 'red and glassy eyes, slurred speech and a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage emitting from her breath and person. 'She was extremely violent and hostile toward both officers and jail staff, to the point where it was deemed unsafe to administer a Standardized Field Sobriety Test on her. 'She continued with her behavior and refused to listen to the statutory warning.' Butler is now charged with Intoxication Assault and Evading Detention, both resulting in serious bodily injury to a peace officer. Cops also arrested Melissa Bell, 22, that morning, after she allegedly kicked and kneed an arresting officer who was trying to lead her into a patrol car. Fitzer was seen in footage posted online lying on the ground, apparently unconscious, as an unruly crowd laughed at him and made vile remarks Police explained in an affidavit obtained by KFDM that Fitzer was in the process of arresting Butler 'when Bell placed herself between Officer Fitzer and the other individual, interfering with the arrest.' It noted that Bell was also intoxicated 'in an agitated state and not following lawful commands. 'Wile walking Bell to my patrol unit, she planted her feet on the ground as to prevent me from bringing her to my vehicle,' the affidavit says. 'A struggle ensued and Bell kicked and kneed me, causing pain.' Bell was later charged with public intoxication, resisting arrest, interference with public duties, assault on a peace officer and outstanding warrants - as both she and Butler had prior arrests. Beaumont police later arrested Jamaysha Butler, 28, and Melissa Bell, 22 A local judge has now set Butler's bond at a total of $282,500 and set Bell's bond at $154,000. He also ordered both women to wear GPS ankle monitors and remain in Jefferson County should they make bail. But Ashlee Johnson, the branch manager at nearby Regional Finance, told 12 News she thinks more needs to be done about the young people who frequent Little Woodrow's bar. 'Every so many months, there's something going on there, and I believe it's because the crowd is getting better,' she claimed, noting that she now feels unsafe walking to her car after work. Edinburgh could move away from large public firework displays in the future, according to the city council's new leader. The Scottish capital is known around the world for its spectacular fireworks on New Year's Eve and other occasions including the city's summer festivals. The Hogmanay display was set to see more than 8500 fireworks burst over Edinburgh Castle at the bells until outdoor events were cancelled due to adverse weather conditions. But pressure has been growing for a move towards alternatives, heightened in the capital by the death of two red pandas at Edinburgh Zoo in November, linked to firework explosions in the city. The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), which runs Edinburgh Zoo, has called for displays to be 'restricted to organised events which use the latest light and drone technology and are completely silent'. Meanwhile, the charity People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) says the use of laser technology, drones, or silent fireworks would only increase the popularity of major events. There have also been calls for a ban on the sale of fireworks to the public after antisocial behaviour in some areas, leading to the introduction of a number of Firework Control Zones. City of Edinburgh Council Leader Jane Meagher, said she was in favour of alternatives being used in the future, after she was inspired by events in her own Portobello and Craigmillar ward, around Bonfire Night. Edinburgh could move away from large public firework displays in the future, according to the city council's new leader The Scottish capital is known around the world for its spectacular fireworks on New Year's Eve and other occasions including the city's summer festivals Cllr Meagher said: 'One of things I experienced in November was how alternatives to fireworks can be really successful and happy. I went to a couple of events that didn't rely on fireworks and they were just wonderful and heartwarming. 'So if it were up to me I would want to be looking at alternatives because I think that the days when we send explosives up into the air are short lived and we need to think about something more inventive and exciting. 'I keep going back to my recent experience of alternatives so in terms of light shows and fabulous laser displays for example, absolutely.' Cllr Meagher cited noise pollution and consideration for animals including pets, animals in zoos and wildlife as well as people for whom loud bangs can be traumatic. She said expert advice would be needed, alongside public consultation, adding: 'It would have to be done with cooperation. 'These sorts of changes have to be done incrementally but I think that there is sufficient public interest in making these sorts of changes that we could move forward. 'We could be trailblazers. I've been to events - some of the opening events for the festivals that I've been involved with where there has been really inventive use of other forms of spectacular display. 'We would have to take expert advice and consult but I can imagine we could be a trailblazer.' The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), which runs Edinburgh Zoo, has called for displays to be 'restricted to organised events which use the latest light and drone technology and are completely silent' Will Evans, director of Titanium Fireworks, creators of Edinburgh's annual Hogmanay fireworks display, said the industry faced concerns about pets and animals, environmental pollution and the effects on people affected by noise and light Elisa Allen, Vice President of Programmes for PETA, said that the cancellation of New Year fireworks events had been 'a relief for everyone bracing for a night of extreme stress'. She said 'Edinburgh could protect humans and other animals by permanently banning fireworks'. She said: 'The loud bangs, vibrations, and flashes, which terrorise some communities daily, confuse and terrify wildlife and companion animals, putting them at risk of injury, displacement, and death. They also distress humans, such as those who suffer from PTSD and children sensitive to noise. 'Yet over 90% of Brits would gladly be dazzled by laser shows, drones, or silent fireworks out of consideration for others, and the use of these technologies by major events would further increase their popularity. 'In 2024, a report revealed that blasts kill or injure over 100 horses a year, a 1 million-strong petition called for greater restrictions on these menacing missiles, and two endangered red pandas died after booms shook Edinburgh around bonfire night. 'In 2025, event organisers must embrace stunning spectacles that everyone can enjoy and celebrate without leaving devastation in their wake.' Will Evans, director of Titanium Fireworks, creators of Edinburgh's annual Hogmanay fireworks display, said the industry faced concerns about pets and animals, environmental pollution and the effects on people affected by noise and light. He said: 'As an industry these are areas we are working on... We will always advocate for the strict use of fireworks, sensibly, in the right place at the right time.' MailOnline has contacted the organisers of Edinburgh's Hogmanay celebrations for comment. An Aussie has shared the incredible moment he discovered a rare gemstone while walking in the Outback. Professional sapphire miner Matt Betteridge revealed his discovery of a 394-carat sapphire on TikTok last month. Mr Betteridge and his partner Amber run their family business Betteridge Sapphires from the heart of the state's mining region in Central Queensland. 'I'm out at a place called Reward, if you guys are heading out this way. But all the areas come up with some good stone,' Mr Betteridge said in the video. Mr Betteridge said the area had been swamped with rain and he decided to do some more fossicking before the wet weather set in. Footage showed him digging with his hands before he made the discovery. 'Look at that! Wow!' he exclaimed. 'It's getting bigger!' Professional sapphire miner Matt Betteridge revealed his discovery of a 394-carat sapphire on TikTok last month Footage showed him digging with his hands before he made the discovery 'I just wanna see how big this thing is, come on, wow, look at that!' Tell you what, luck's on my side of late.' Mr Betteridge then pulled the sapphire out of the ground. 'Wow, look at that guys!' he said. 'This place has been known for large bombs in the past, but wow guys that's huge! 'So I'll have to give that scrub up before I'll see any colour in it.' The video cut to Ms Betteridge holding the cleaned sapphire up to the camera. 'Here it is all cleaned up 394 carats of Australian sapphire,' she said. 'Now, it is summer here at the minute, and the heat is terrible.' Mr Betteridge said the 394-carat sapphire (pictured) was just 'waiting to be found' 'But if you can handle a bit of heat, we also get these amazing rainstorms which bring out the sapphires.' Mr Betteridge told Yahoo he had been 'out of a stroll' on the gem fields after the rain and 'saw something glimmering in the road'. He said the 394-carat sapphire, was just 'waiting to be found'. Mr Betteridge said he and Ms Betteridge had decided not to cut the sapphire due to its commercial value of only $1,000. 'It's not going to be faceted into a big gem or nothing,' he said. 'It's going to stay exactly the way it is because it's a pretty cool crystal structure. 'It'll be kept that way for its natural beauty. I want to cut it as it's just sacrilege because it's so beautiful.' The couple regularly post their sapphire discoveries on social media. Earlier this year, their seven-year-old son Riley found a 14.5-carat sapphire worth up to $10,000 just 200m away from his home in the middle of Queensland's gem fields in Rubyvale near Rockhampton. Footage of his incredible find has racked up almost 3million views on TikTok with many viewers leaving messages of congratulations for the seven-year-old. 'Surely that's earned him a day off school,' one social media user joked. A beloved Michigan father was found dead after he went to grab something from his car during a family trip and never returned. The body of 52-year-old Robert Loren Bacon was recovered from the Cass River in Frankenmuth around 2pm Saturday. He was last seen at a resort pool on the evening of December 27. His ex-wife, Melissa McLenna said the father-of-two met his daughters, 15 and 13, and his mother at the Bavarian Inn around 6.40pm that day. '[He] was going to his car to get something and was coming back to the pool area to join his family,' she told McClatchy News. 'He never returned to his family at the pool.' Although Bacon said he was going to his vehicle, surveillance footage showed a different story. '[Investigators] have video showing him going to the fun center after leaving the hotel room, never coming back to his car,' McLenna told WNEM, noting that there are some exits that don't have cameras. 'They dont have any video showing he exited the building.' Bacon was officially reported missing on December 30, as McLenna and other worried family members took to social media to spread the word about his disappearance. Tragically, the Frankenmuth Police Department announced Saturday that his body was found by dive teams in the river near Heritage Park. Robert Loren Bacon, 52, was recovered from the Cass River in Frankenmuth around 2pm Saturday after he disappeared on the evening of December 27 He had told his family that he was going to meet them at the resort pool after grabbing something from his car His preliminary cause of death 'appears to be a drowning,' the department said, adding that a final determination will be made by the Saginaw County Medical Examiner's Office. After days of looking for her ex-husband, McLenna took to Facebook Sunday mourning his death. 'I have no words to describe how we feel. We are so sad. I just want to say thank you to everyone that helped look for Robert. Thank you to all that prayed for us and that are continuing to pray for us,' she wrote. In a subsequent post, McLenna said: 'Today I am turning off my phone. We need to have time together without the phone,' as she thanked the community again for their help. After Bacon didn't come back from his car, McLenna said that his vehicle was found in the parking lot and his phone kept going 'straight to voicemail.' His car, a silver sedan, was pictured inside the resort's lot on January 1. Nothing suspicious was found inside the vehicle, police said. After Bacon didn't come back from his car, McLenna said that his vehicle was found in the parking lot and his phone kept going 'straight to voicemail' The department also determined that his personal belongings, including keys, his wallet and phone were on him, but his phone had been turned off since he was last seen. 'I was told he was wearing a jacket that has a hoodie thats like a plaid gray, black, white jacket, with the white fur on the inside, a blue ball cap - dark blue - blue jeans, and he was wearing his Nike slides,' McLenna told the outlet. Prior to the discovery of her ex-husband, McLenna expressed concern for him and their children amidst his disappearance. 'My poor kids, our kids, I dont know what to tell. They ask, "Mom, have they found him yet?" and I just say, "No, were still looking",' she recalled. DailyMail.com contacted the Saginaw County Medical Examiner's Office and the Frankenmuth Police Department for comment. GRP arrested 35 human traffickers in Tripura in 5 months The Government Railway Police (GRP) arrested 35 human traffickers in the last five months in Tripura for facilitating illegal entry of Bangladeshi nationals and Rohingyas into India, officials said on Monday. An official said that the 35 human traffickers, all Indians, were arrested by the GRP from different places in Tripura in the past five months. On Sunday night, the GRP personnel with the help of the Border Security Force (BSF) jawans arrested five more human traffickers from Konaban in Sepahijala district. The GRP also arrested over 115 Bangladeshi nationals and Rohingyas at the Agartala railway station and other places since August 1. The BSF and the Tripura state police separately arrested a large number of human traffickers from different locations in Tripura. Over the past five months, around 600 Bangladeshi nationals and over 63 Rohingyas were arrested by the GRP, various other security forces and Tripura Police from the Agartala railway station and different places in Tripura after they illegally entered India. The BSF alone last year arrested 55 Rohingya migrants, 620 Bangladeshi nationals and 260 Indian nationals including human traffickers in various operations. After the unrest began in Bangladesh in July, especially after the fall of the former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government on August 5, the infiltration into India's northeastern states increased to a large extent. The Bangladeshis and Rohingyas, after arrest, told the security personnel that they intended to go to major metropolitan cities and other places in India in search of jobs. The Rohingyas illegally entered India after fleeing their camps in Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar where more than one million displaced Rohingyas from Myanmar have been living since 2017. A BSF spokesman said that after the Bangladesh unrest began in June-July, the border guarding force has intensified its domination and operations along the 856 km India-Bangladesh border in Tripura to prevent infiltration, exfiltration, and trans-border crimes including smuggling of contraband. The BSF, on a number of occasions, foiled several infiltration attempts by hundreds of Bangladeshi nationals comprising both Hindus and Muslims. Pope Francis has called out nuns with 'vinegar faces' and told them to avoid gossip in a bizarre tirade. The pope, 88, urged a group of Dominican nuns from the Union of St Catherine of Siena of the Missionaries to 'distance' themselves from tales. 'Gossip kills, gossip poisons. Please, no gossiping among you, none. And to ask this of a woman is heroic but, come on, let's move forward and no gossip', he said in one of his off-the-cuff speeches that are fast becoming part and parcel of his papacy. 'That's not something that helps to attract people. Vinegar is nasty and nuns with a vinegar face, let's not even talk about it', he added. Pope Francis, who became the leader of the Catholic church in 2013, also urged the nuns not to speak with the Devil. 'The Lord has shown us that he spoke with everyone, except there was one person that the Lord never spoke with: the Devil. 'Please, speak with everyone except the Devil. The Devil enters the community, he sees the jealousies, all those things that belong to all humans, not just women, everyone, that's where the Devil goes. No dialogue with the Devil, understood? We don't speak with the Devil.' He has long courted controversy - earlier this year, he was reported to have used derogatory language against gay people when talking about men training to be priests in seminaries. Pope Francis speaks with nuns during the weekly general audience on June 22, 2022 at St. Peter's square in The Vatican The pontiff, pictured in January 2023, has told nuns to 'avoid gossip' The Vatican was forced to apologise for his use of the Italian term 'frociaggine', which translates to an offensive slur against gay people in a closed-door meeting. The word choice shocked many, as he has long been a proponent of LGBTQ+ people being more and more involved in church life. A priest, who declined to be named, told the Times: 'Pope Francis speaks like this, he is rough-spoken. It can be embarrassing and it could be getting more pronounced with age. 'First time round I think it was the Vatican press office issuing the apology rather than him.' Roberta Vinerba, a Franciscan nun and theologian, said the Pope's tone was 'dry, direct, colloquial' but had the virtue of clarity, Vinerba said. 'It's an invitation that he extends to everyone show a serene face, a smiling face, which doesn't necessarily mean that things are going well but expresses a hope, a certainty, the hope of being credible witnesses to the salvation that has come to us,' she said. EXCLUSIVE Axe attacker Evie Amati laughed as she was released from jail, eight years to the day after the horrific attempted murders of customers at a Sydney 7-Eleven outlet. Amati, a trans woman, smashed an axe into the head of one man at an Enmore service station on January 6, 2017 before attacking a female customer and another man. But at 9.30am on Monday, Amati, 32, walked out of the Bolwara Transitional Centre at Emu Plains women's prison smiling, sporting a new look and a ghoulish jail tattoo. She emerged into daylight grinning broadly, and had so many boxes and bags of possessions that a large trolley was needed to transport them all. Amati, wearing jeans, Vans skater shoes and a sleeveless maroon top, was swiftly escorted from custody to a waiting female friend's car before being whisked away. With shiny pink polished nails, full make-up and bleached blonde hair with a thick black streak, Amati had the word 'DEAD' inked in big blue letters on the knuckles of the left hand. Other disturbing arm tattoos included a skeleton dressed in a suit, and a zombie eating a can of Campbell's labelled 'Brain Soup'. The released prisoner ignored Daily Mail Australia's questions about the axe attack before leaping into the car with a black Calvin Klein suitcase, documents, and multiple bags. Axe attacker Evie Amati laughed as she was released from jail eight years after she committed the horrifying attempted 7-Eleven murders Showing off a new look and ghoulish jail tattoo, the now 32-old-offender walked from Bolwara Transitional Centre at Emu Plains women's prison at 9.30am on Monday Above is the axe attack in question. Evie Amati struck Ben Rimmer in the face, then brought the 2kg weapon down on Sharon Hacker's skull, during her 7-Eleven rampage in 2017 With a female friend driving, Amati took off from the prison and down the M4 motorway. Parole conditions prohibit Amati from entering the Sydney CBD. the suburbs of Annandale, Petersham, Newtown and Sydenham, and from taking illicit drugs or drinking alcohol. In the 2017 attack, Amati was caught on CCTV walking into the service station carrying a 2kg axe and with an 18cm knife in the jeans' back pocket at 2.20am. Not only did the terrifying brutality of the attack on innocent customers shock the nation - so too did the relatively short sentence. In the hours leading up to the attack, Amati had consumed vodka, cannabis, MDMA, antidepressants and transgender hormones and was consumed with anger. Amati had the word 'DEAD' inked in amateurish block blue letters on the fingers of her left hand Amati did not answer questions from Daily Mail Australia about her offences or incarceration before piling into the car with a black Calvin Klein suitcase, documents, and the multiple bags Wearing jeans, Vans skater shoes and a sleeveless maroon top, Amati's visible arm tattoos depicted a skeleton dressed in a suit, and a zombie eating a can of 'BRAIN SOUP' Seen leaving jail on Monday, Amati will be free from any parole supervision in six years and may apply to be transferred back to her home state of Western Australia before then Having undergone sex-change surgery in Thailand in 2016, Amati experienced post-operative pain, and had split up with her girlfriend. The band in which she was a drummer had also dissolved. Thanks to having union official parents, Amati scored a job in Sydney with the Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU), where one colleague told the Mail she was considered lazy, arrogant and entitled. On the night in question, following a failed Tinder date, she sent a friend a Facebook message saying 'most people deserve to die, I hate people' and went home to get the axe she'd bought two months previously. After walking 450m from her home, she entered Enmore 7-Eleven, did a lap of the shop and approached Ben Rimmer as he waited by the cash register to buy a pie. As Mr Rimmer later told the Mail, 'If I hadn't turned my head at the last minute, she would have cut my head in half.' Amati swung the axe down on Mr Rimmer's face. He wasn't immediately aware of what had happened other than 'it was like a king hit. 'It didn't register straight away, it took about 30 seconds,' he said. 'I fell to the ground. I was prone, bleeding profusely.' Starting to panic that he might bleed out, so fast and flowing was the blood from his face, Rimmer took off his shirt and said, 'I tied it around my head trying to stem it.' At the time, he was not aware that Amati had also struck the customer ahead of him - who had just bought a carton milk - with the axe. Amati swung into the head of Sharon Hacker and as she lay helpless on the ground, Amati brought down a second vicious blow which would likely have killed her, but narrowly missed. While Amati has been freed after eight years, Ben Rimmer will spend the rest of his life with four titanium plates in his face, including an orbital plate which moves and which he can feel every time he touches it Amati is caught on CCTV casually walking into the Enmore service station carrying a 2kg axe and hiding an 18cm knife in her back pocket at 2.20am on January 6 =, 2017 Police and paramedics told Rimmer to not under any circumstances to swallow the blood. 'It was almost impossible,' he said as wounds in his face inflicted by Amati sent blood pouring down his throat Amati then stepped over Ms Hacker, walked across the petrol station bays out onto the road where she swung at a third victim, Shane Redwood, Inside the 7-Eleven, bleeding on the ground and screaming in panic as the pain kicked in, Rimmer yelled at the proprietor to lock the doors of the shop, for fear of Amati returning to finish them off. He began vomiting due to the pain of his injuries. Amati was convicted of wounding with intent to murder, causing grievous bodily harm with intent to murder and attempting to wound with intent to murder in NSW District Court in 2018. The jury returned a guilty verdict, but there was general outrage at the judge's short sentence - four-and-a-half years - before it was successfully appealed and extended to 14 years. The eight-year non-parole period expired on Monday and NSW Community Corrections recommended releas, on the grounds that Amati 'has completed their program pathway in custody. '[She has] participated in educational and vocational programs, and engaged with professional interventions to address mental health issues, substance abuse and offending behaviour,' the NSW State Parole Authority said. 'Amati is assessed at a medium/low risk of reoffending.' Amati's victims carry lifetime physical injuries and mental trauma. Following a failed Tinder date, she sent a friend a Facebook message saying ' Most people deserve to die, I hate people' and went home to get the axe she'd bought two months previously Sharon Hacker suffered shooting pain down her arm, chest pain, lost 25kg, suffers continuing nerve pain and her daughter became agoraphobic and terrified of going out after dark. Ben Rimmer will spend the rest of his life with four titanium plates in his face, including an orbital plate which moves and which he can feel every time he touches it. The CCA appeal noted that had the cut been 'a millimetre or two above it would have resulted in potentially life-threatening ... massive bleed to the brain, loss of vision' for Rimmer. As the happy, smiling Amati showed off her new look outside the jail walls on Monday before starting a new life, her female chaperone questioned the Mail's right to be photographing the offender's exit into freedom. Ben Rimmer has previously told the Mail that Amati would 'do her time easily and get paroled.. It's played out perfectly for her, perhaps better than she expected. 'She went there to kill. It's only pure luck that I'm alive and she's not remorseful. She's intelligent calculating.' The Mail learned that Amati, who has been held in three different women's prisons since her arrest two years ago, had used her intelligence and skills as former union organiser to push other female inmates around in the system. Born Karl Amati, the axe attacker claimed in an affidavit in 2019 that she was 'de-transitioning' back to being male. That has not yet happened. 'Deeply disturbing' remarks made by the two candidates vying to lead the Muslim Council of Britain have been uncovered by a think tank. Dr Muhammad Adrees and Dr Mohammed Wajid Akhter are battling it out to become the secretary-general of the group, with their first public hustings to take place on Tuesday. But just days before the debate, right-wing think tank Policy Exchange has published a report highlighting some of their previous remarks which Britain's longest serving Muslim MP Khalid Mahmood has described as 'deeply disturbing'. Policy Exchange's report, titled 'The Muslim Council of Britain's new leadership', claims Dr Adrees 'has strongly supported the dictatorial regime in Iran'. While Dr Akhter, from Essex, is said to have 'expressed views which appear ominous for the integration of Muslims into Britain'. The document points to a 2022 article in which he advocated British Muslims to identify primarily as Muslim rather than British. 'Most people teach their children to be their nationality or ethnicity first, but this gives such a limited and limiting view of yourself and others that this can lead children to be shallow,' he wrote. 'It is literally how the evils of nationalism, racism, and fascism are born. Choosing faith as a primary identity for your children (and of course yourself!) allows a solid foundation upon which to approach the world.' Right-wing think tank Policy Exchange as uncovered remarks made by Muslim Council secretary general candidate Dr Muhammad Adrees (pictured) in which he praised the regime in Iran Fellow candidate Dr Mohammed Wajid Akhter is said to have 'expressed views which appear ominous for the integration of Muslims into Britain' In another article in 2012, Dr Akhter described New Year celebrations as a 'pagan' event, saying Muslims shouldn't take part because it 'usually involves un-Islamic practices' such as 'mixed gender events where people wear fashionable clothes, dance and sing songs, etc. It is necessarily an Islam free zone, not least because it has no basis or relationship to Islam'. Dr Adrees in 2017 wrote a glowing report in Islam Today about the Iran regime after visiting Tehran. In it, he praised the former supreme leader Ruhollah Khomeini and 'the Iranian Revolution, when the great leader led the nation to its destiny'. Khalid Mahmood, a senior fellow at Policy Exchange and Britain's longest-serving Muslim MP, from 2001 to 2024, told The Times: 'The views exposed by Policy Exchange are deeply disturbing. 'That the MCB keeps getting it wrong is no accident. It is a design fault rooted in its ideology. The government rightly refuses to engage with the MCB.' MCB claimed Policy Exchange had 'a long history of hostility towards British Muslims', which the think tank strenuously denied. The council said: 'The Policy Exchange has a long history of hostility towards British Muslims, including being exposed by BBC Newsnight for fabricating evidence to smear our community. 'They are consistent in advocating for indirectly denying Muslims equal rights and an equal say in our democracy. 'As for the specific allegations raised, we trust our affiliates will scrutinise candidates thoroughly in the weeks ahead at our hustings events and through the democratic process.' Dr Akhter said: 'I am standing for secretary-general of the Muslim Council of Britain because I love my community and my country. 'British Muslims have made, and will continue to make, a positive contribution to our society. My vision is to strengthen unity among all Britons, fostering mutual respect, shared values and opportunities for everyone to thrive. 'Any attempt to misrepresent my views or intentions is not only deeply misleading but entirely unfounded.' MailOnline has contacted Dr Adrees for further comment. Donald Trump made a shock claim that Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg was 'forced' to prosecute him by the Biden Administration just days after a judge ruled that his sentencing will take place ten days before his inauguration. On Friday, the judge said that Trump was unlikely to face jail time or other penalties in the criminal case in which he was convicted on charges involving hush money paid to a porn star. But it didn't stop the president-elect taking to Truth Social on Sunday night to unleash a blistering critique over the whole affair. Trump accused DA Bragg and the judge overseeing his trial, Juan Merchan, of orchestrating a 'lawless' case against him under pressure from the Biden administration. In the fiery statement posted online, Trump claimed the legal proceedings were all part of a politically motivated effort to discredit him. 'D.A. Alvin Bragg never wanted to bring this lawless case against me,' Trump alleged. 'He was furious at the way it was handled, and especially angry at Mark Pomerantz [New York District Attorney Prosecutor] for his behavior, and what he did.' Trump wrote about himself in the third person as he suggested that Bragg was forced into action by the Department of Justice, stating that the 'Biden/Harris DOJ forced Bragg to concoct anything to embarrass Trump.' Donald Trump made a shock claim that Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg was 'forced' to prosecute him by the Biden Administration In the fiery statement posted online, Trump claimed the legal proceedings were all part of a politically motivated effort to discredit him Trump suggested that Bragg was forced into action by the Department of Justice, stating that the 'Biden/Harris DOJ forced Bragg to concoct anything to embarrass Trump.' But the president-elect reserved his harshest criticism for the judge presiding over the case, accusing him of bias and misconduct. 'It was even more so what the corrupt and totally conflicted political hack judge did, and is doing, on this sham trial,' Trump wrote. He further decried what he described as an 'unconstitutional gag order,' which he claimed prevents him from discussing the judge's alleged 'highly disqualifying conflicts of interest.' Trump insisted the trial lacked merit, asserting that 'virtually every legal scholar and pundit says THERE IS NO (ZERO!) CASE AGAINST ME.' He accused the judge of fabricating facts and manipulating the law, comparing the proceedings to other legal challenges he has faced in New York, which he described as 'judicial and prosecutorial witch hunts.' Beyond his personal grievances, Trump painted a dire picture of New York's legal and economic climate claiming the state's legal system was driving businesses away, costing millions of jobs and billions in tax revenue. 'The legal system is broken, and businesses can't take a chance in getting caught up in this quicksand,' he said. 'That's why businesses are fleeing New York, taking with them millions of jobs and billions of dollars in taxes.' Trump framed the case as part of a broader effort to undermine his political ambitions, calling it a 'rigged' attempt to target a political opponent. Trump accused Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and the judge overseeing his trial of orchestrating a 'lawless' case against him under pressure from the Biden administration Judge Juan M. Merchan said that Trump was unlikely to face jail time or other penalties in the criminal case in which he was convicted on charges involving hush money paid to a porn star The case stemmed from a $130,000 payment Trump's former lawyer Michael Cohen made to adult film actor Stormy Daniels to keep her quiet about a sexual encounter she said she had with Trump, who denies it 'It's all rigged, in this case against a political opponentME!' he declared, characterizing the trial as an attack on democracy. Trump will appear at a court hearing just only a week-and-a half before his January 20 inauguration - an unprecedented scenario in U.S. history. Before Trump, no U.S. president - former or sitting - had been charged with or convicted of a crime. The judge said Trump, 78, may appear at his sentencing either in person or virtually. He wrote that he was not inclined to sentence Trump to jail, and that a sentence of 'unconditional discharge' - meaning no custody, monetary fine, or probation - would be 'the most viable solution.' The case stemmed from a $130,000 payment Trump's former lawyer Michael Cohen made to adult film actor Stormy Daniels to keep her quiet about a sexual encounter she said she had with Trump, who denies it. A jury in May found Trump guilty of falsifying records to mask the payment prior to the 2016 election. The imposition of the sentence would pave the way for Trump to appeal. Merchan acknowledged in his ruling that Trump has made clear he intends to appeal. In other posts to Truth Social over the weekend Trump said he never falsified business records. 'It is a fake, made up charge by a corrupt judge who is just doing the work of the Biden/Harris Injustice Department,' Trump wrote. 'He created a case where there was none.' Merchan announced his plan for the sentencing in denying Trump's motion to dismiss the case due to his presidential election victory. Trump's defense lawyers had argued that having the case hang over him during his presidency would impede his ability to govern. Merchan rejected that argument, writing that setting aside the jury's verdict would 'undermine the Rule of Law in immeasurable ways.' 'Defendant's status as President-elect does not require the drastic and 'rare' application of (the court's) authority to grant the (dismissal) motion,' Merchan wrote in the decision. Merchan also rejected Trump's argument in a December 3 court filing that dismissal was warranted because his 'civic and financial contributions to this city and the Nation are too numerous to count.' Trump's defense lawyers had argued that having the case hang over him during his presidency would impede his ability to govern Trump accused DA Bragg and the judge overseeing his trial, Juan Merchan, of orchestrating a 'lawless' case against him under pressure from the Biden administration While acknowledging Trump's service as president, the judge said Trump's public statements excoriating the justice system were also a factor for him in determining how Trump's character would factor into the decision. Merchan criticized what he called Trump's 'unrelenting and unsubstantiated attacks' against the integrity of the criminal proceeding, and noted that he had found him guilty of 10 counts of contempt during the trial for repeatedly violating an order restricting out-of-court statements about witnesses and others. 'Defendant has gone to great lengths to broadcast on social media and other forums his lack of respect for judges, juries, grand juries and the justice system as a whole,' Merchan wrote. 'Defendant's character and history vis-a-vis the Rule of Law and the Third Branch of government must be analyzed,' the judge said, referring to the judiciary. 'In that vein, it does not weigh in his favor.' A Manhattan jury in May found Trump guilty of 34 counts of falsifying business records to cover up the payment to Daniels. He had pleaded not guilty and called the case an attempt by Bragg, the Democratic prosecutor who brought the charges, to harm his 2024 campaign. Daniels' testimony in the trial last year went on for two days and included salacious details of her alleged affair with the president-elect Lawyers for Trump argue the case involving porn star Stormy Daniels should be thrown out Trump's sentencing was initially scheduled for July 11, 2024, but has been pushed back several times. On Thursday, Merchan said Trump's request in August that the sentencing be pushed back until after the election implied that he consented to being sentenced during the transition period. 'Any claim Defendant may have that circumstances have changed as a result of Defendant's victory in the Presidential election, while convenient, is disingenuous,' Merchan wrote. Bragg did not oppose delaying the sentencing until after the election. Merchan in September pushed it back to November 26. After Trump defeated Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris in the November 5 election, the judge delayed the sentencing indefinitely to figure out next steps. Bragg's office had argued there were measures short of the 'extreme remedy' of overturning the jury's verdict that could assuage Trump's concerns about being distracted by a criminal case while serving as president, such as delaying the sentence until after Trump leaves the White House in 2029. Merchan wrote on Thursday he found that alternative 'less desirable' than sentencing Trump before the inauguration. Trump on December 16 lost a separate bid to toss the hush money conviction in light of the U.S. Supreme Court's July 1 decision that presidents cannot be criminally prosecuted over their official actions, and that evidence of their official actions cannot be presented in criminal cases over personal conduct. In denying Trump's motion to dismiss, Merchan said the prosecution over 'decidedly personal acts of falsifying business records poses no danger of intrusion on the authority and function of the executive branch.' Falsifying business records is punishable by up to four years in prison, but incarceration is not required. Before his election victory, legal experts said it was unlikely Trump would be locked up due to his lack of a criminal history and advanced age. Trump was charged in three other state and federal criminal cases in 2023: one involving classified documents he kept after leaving office and two others involving his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss. He pleaded not guilty in all three cases. The Justice Department moved to dismiss the two federal cases after Trump's election victory. Trump's state criminal case in Georgia over charges stemming from his effort to overturn his 2020 election loss in that state is in limbo. Immigration and its impact on the community is set to be a hot topic at this year's federal election. There is no escaping the fact that the rate of immigration has far exceeded expectations and promises in recent years. The view among many voters is that it's also having a detrimental impact on cost of living. Whether its house prices, rental availability or traffic congestion in our many cities, migration cops the blame. Which no doubt is why both major parties have committed to reducing the rate. If you believe the promises, that is. For years immigration has locked in Australia's economic growth. Treasurers have used it to prop up their budgets, disguising otherwise low levels of per capita growth. More recently, the role of immigration in staving off recession has been even more directly relevant. Put simply, without the hundreds of thousands of migrants streaming into the country each and every year, Australia would be in a technical recession. During the last financial year, 445,600 migrants moved to Australia - down from an all-time high of 548,800 in the year to September 2023 During the Howard years, the then-Coalition government used its tough border protection policies to mask potential public dissatisfaction with record levels of legal immigration. John Howard was able to raise immigration rates, so his supporters would say, because he was known to be tough on illegal immigration - 'stopping the boats'. Without that stick, the economic carrot of immigration helping the budget bottom line probably would have incurred a voter backlash. Remember, city congestion, rising property prices and a tight rental market are nothing new. Back when Howard was walking a fine line on record levels of immigration, there were isolated opponents willing to call him out. And not just the usual suspects on the Coalitions right flank, such as Pauline Hanson. Former NSW Premier Bob Carr was a vocal critic of high rates of immigration - a contrarian view within the Labor Party at that time. As a state premier he well understood the downside of high immigration rates, in contrast to what was the conventional wisdom about the economic lift immigration provided at the time. Fast forward to today, and the opposition leader Peter Dutton is trying to walk both sides of the road on this vexed issue. His rhetoric has been to call for cuts to immigration, a populist stand to be sure. Dutton used his budget reply in May last year to pledge to bring immigration down to 140,000 a year. Remembering that not all that long ago it hit the half a million mark. Peter Dutton during his stint as home affairs minister. Migration is poised to be a major issue in the forthcoming 2025 federal election campaign. He's shifted his rhetoric on the matter ever so slightly As the next election campaign formally gets underway, expect the immigration debate to further heat up The Opposition Leaders commitment targeted refugee and humanitarian migration. He also promised to reduce the number of international students. However with the election now in the balance and the prospect of a Coalition government no longer a fairy tale, Dutton has shifted his rhetoric ever so slightly. Hes now promising to read the economic tea leaves if he wins the election, only fulfilling his promise of cutting numbers if economic circumstances supports such a shift. Why the change? Its partly a matter of how the Coalition frames its alternative budget forecasts, but its also a response to the business community. Big business has expressed deep concerns with further reductions in immigration across the budget forward estimates. Dutton said as much in the second half of last year. Now the opposition is simply saying it will cut immigration, but it wont commit to the precise target. As the next election campaign formally gets underway, expect the immigration debate to further heat up. Even if the major parties try and avoid sharp contrasts in their approaches to the issue, minor parties on both the left and the right will apply pressure. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is to resign amid public outcry within his country over his liberal politics. Trudeau is set to make an announcement at 10.45am Eastern Time that he will resign as the Liberal Party leader. An official said Trudeau plans to announce his resignation Monday in the face of rising discontent over his leadership, and after the abrupt departure of his finance minister signaled growing turmoil within his government. The official said that Trudeau will stay on as prime minister until a new leader of the Liberal Party is chosen. A senior government source told AFP: 'It's a done deal that he is leaving...it's now just about how.' One person with knowledge of Trudeau's plans told The Globe and Mail that he realizes he needs to make an announcement before he meets with the Liberal caucus to avoid the appearance that he was forced out by the party. The prime minister came to the conclusion that the party is no longer behind him, and he knows there is no path for him to stay on, sources said. It remains unclear what Liberal Party national executives plan to do to replace Trudeau as prime minister, and whether he will stay in his position until a new leader is selected. But the Liberal Party national executive, which rules on leadership issues, is planning to meet later this week. The decision comes amid outrage following Chrystia Freeland's surprising decision to resign as finance minister and deputy prime minister on December 16 - the same day she was supposed to deliver her economic and fiscal update. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to announce his resignation on Monday The decision comes amid outrage following Chrystia Freeland's surprising decision to resign as finance minister and deputy prime minister She cited concerns over what she called Trudeau's 'spending gimmicks' in her announcement. Freeland also outlined disagreements she had with Trudeau on spending and 'the best path forward for Canada' amid a high cost of living and rising inflation, according to the BBC. The disagreements, she said, were underscored by incoming US President Donald Trump's threats of a 25 percent tariff on Canadian goods if it does not secure its border. Trudeau remained mostly silent about Freeland's resignation in the aftermath as he made a public trip down to Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate - which only worsened the crisis as Trump went on to mock his counterpart and imply that he would make Canada a US state. As calls for his resignation mounted, Trudeau eventually announced the country would engage in a Trump-style crackdown on immigration. Canada's newly appointed Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc announced on Tuesday that the $1.3bn CAD ($930m USD) slate of new measures 'will secure our border against the flow of illegal drugs and irregular migration.' The new measures will include 24/7 surveillance of the border using 'helicopters, drones and mobile surveillance towers', and upgraded detection tools to catch drugs slipping over the border. The legislation is based on five pillars: Slowing the trade of fentanyl, improving border patrols' coordination, providing new tools for law enforcement, easing information sharing among departments and slowing migrant crossings, reports TNC. Trudeau remained mostly silent about Freeland's resignation in the aftermath He made a public trip down to Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate - which only worsened the crisis as Trump went on to mock his counterpart and imply that he would make Canada a US state It remains unclear what Liberal Party national executives plan to do to replace Trudeau as prime minister, and whether he will stay in his position until a new leader is selected Among those who could now take Trudeau's place is investment banker Mark Carney, 59, who has spent many hours on the phone with Liberal MPs over the holidays - seeking their advice and support for a run at leadership for the Liberal Party, Global News reports. But Trudeau has also apparently held discussions with LeBlanc over whether he would be willing to step in as an interim leader and prime minister, one source told The Globe and Mail. Another suggested it would make sense for Trudeau to remain in his position until a new leader is chosen so that he can deal with the incoming Trump administration and the threat of tariffs. A third source also noted that any leadership race would take at least three months, as the Liberal Party continues to lose favor to the Conservatives and their leader Pierre Poillievre. Joe Biden snapped at reporters who asked him a question about his age amid increasing concern over his mental decline. Biden, at age 82, is the oldest living President following Jimmy Carter's death last month. His cognitive decline has been on display for the world to see during his four years in the top job with a seemingly never-ending series of blunders and mishaps. When probed on Sunday, the President was filmed responding sharply to reporters. 'My being the oldest president, I know more world leaders than any of you have ever met in your whole godd*mn life,' he said. His comment immediately sparked a wave of criticism. Some Conservatives were upset that the President 'took the Lord's name in vain like it was nothing', while others said the takedown was 'embarrassing.' Biden has been forced to swat away rumors about his mental health throughout his presidency, but particularly in the last 18 months. Joe Biden snapped at reporters who asked him a question about his age amid increasing concern over his mental decline Veteran CBS News reporter Jan Crawford went so far as to describe Biden's cognitive decline as the most underreported story of 2024. She said 'Biden's obvious cognitive decline that became undeniable in the televised debate. Unquestioned.' Crawford slammed his advisers for insisting that Biden, 82, could 'still run' for re-election, despite their efforts to hide his apparent mental incompetence, and argued that if journalists had 'more forcefully questioned' his fitness there may have 'primary for the Democrats'. Just hours prior to his bizarre comments to journalists, he bungled a rendition of Happy Birthday after he invited a young man on stage to celebrate. Biden was singing into a microphone as a crowd full of people watched when he suddenly forgot the man's name - and the lyric - leading to an awkward gap in the song. The man took the gaffe well, laughing it off as Biden's voice trailed off at the part of the song he didn't know, before picking up again for the end of the song. 'Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday to...,' he sung into the microphone. Video of the blunder has now gone viral, prompting critics to brand the President an 'embarrassment' and begin a countdown for Donald Trump's inauguration. His cognitive decline has been on display for the world to see during his four years in the top job with a seemingly never-ending series of blunders and mishaps 'Biden brought a guy on stage to sing happy birthday to him... The problem is he either doesn't know his name or forgot it... and mumbled nonsense instead,' one wrote. 'Joe Biden has no clue who hes singing happy birthday to, this administration is a joke,' another added. The president's health has been back in the news since The Wall Street Journal published a story on December 19 on how aides dealt with a 'diminished' president throughout his entire term. The report revealed that aides would have to repeat obvious instructions to Biden such as where to exit a stage, scrapped meetings on his 'bad days', and kept him at arm's length from his own Cabinet members. Biden allegedly leaned on a close circle of unelected advisers and officials who had been put into roles usually occupied by the president. The administration would also gaslight those who dared to claim Biden's abilities had deteriorated since he was Barack Obama's vice president, according to the report. At the same time, press aides who were tasked with compiling news clips were instructed by senior staff to leave out any negative stories about the president. His term was riddled with embarrassing gaffes and blunders, including introducing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as 'President Putin' at the NATO summit in July, bumping into flagpoles and falling off bikes. An Aussie couple has been removed from a flight by police and charged after an alleged drunken incident, including a woman 'grabbing and shaking' another passenger. The Australian Federal Police (AFP) was called for assistance after a couple on the flight from Hobart to Sydney allegedly caused a disturbance. James Corr, 45, and his partner Analisa, 53, were allegedly intoxicated and drinking alcohol they brought with them on the plane. Ms Corr allegedly grabbed and shook another passenger while they were leaving a toilet on the December 29 flight. The couple was escorted off the flight by police officers and charged with one count each of failing to comply with safety instructions by cabin crew and consuming alcohol not provided by crew. These offences carry a maximum penalty of $13,750. Ms Corr was also charged with assault, which carries a penalty of us to two years' jail. More than 400 incidents relating to intoxicated individuals were recorded at major airports in Australia last year, AFP Sergeant Luke Stockwell said. James Corr, 45, and his partner Analisa, 53, were allegedly intoxicated and drinking alcohol they brought with them on the plane 'We urge travellers to be mindful of their behaviour at airports these summer holidays you don't want to start the new year with a significant fine or worse, behind bars,' he said. 'Bad behaviour at airports is not only disrespectful to other travellers, airport workers and airline staff, but it's a safety risk and usually leads to more serious offences. 'The AFP is increasing patrols at all major airports during the holidays and will not tolerate dangerous, disruptive or abusive behaviour from travellers.' The couple is due to appear before Downing Centre Local Court in Sydney on Monday. A man charged over the alleged rape and sexual assault of a female airline crew member in Fiji has arrived at court - as new claims emerge about the incident. Ilaisa Tanoa, 24, was transported to the Nadi Magistrates Court on Monday in a police vehicle and was wearing brightly coloured shirt. Tanoa was charged on Saturday after the alleged rape and sexual assault of a 21-year-old member of Virgin Australia's flight crew on New Year's Day in Nadi, an international gateway to Fiji's most popular tourist destinations. She had gone with colleagues to a nightclub district before one member was allegedly robbed outside the popular Bar One nightclub and the 21-year-old was allegedly sexually assaulted in a separate incident. Tanoa allegedly had offered the young woman a lift back to her hotel posing as a taxi driver, the Daily Telegraph reported. The woman, who had been separated from her friends, was attempting to make her way home following the nightclub's 1am lockout. Police investigations are ongoing. Bar One issued a statement on Sunday following the incident. Ilaisa Tanoa, 24, was escorted to the Nadi Magistrates Court on Monday in a police vehicle wearing a brightly coloured shirt. He covered his head with the palm of his hand as he entered the court 'We would like to address the recent incident involving two crew members from Virgin Airlines,' the club said in a social media post. 'While we acknowledge the seriousness of the situation, we feel it is important to clarify that this incident did not take place within Bar One, nor in the immediate vicinity of our establishment. 'The Virgin Airlines Crew are regular customers at Bar One and we have never experienced any similar incidents in the past, so it is disheartening to see our establishment portrayed in a negative light due to circumstances that (are) not directly related to our bar.' The alleged incident occurred during ongoing debates about Fiji's lockout laws, which require businesses to close at 1am, replacing the earlier 5am closing time. Local politicians are concerned these incidents could hurt Fiji's tourism-reliant economy especially after seven visitors, including four Australians, fell ill after drinking cocktails at a five-star resort in December. But the Australian government's tourism website has not changed its advice for the Pacific nation. It maintains Australians should exercise normal safety precautions and highlights the possibility of crime, noting the highest risk is in urban areas and at night. The Virgin crew members stayed in their hotel near Nadi International Airport after the alleged incidents and the airline sent across support staff. Government travel advice to Fiji has not changed after alleged assaults on Virgin Australia crew The crew members returned to Australia last week. The alleged incidents came just weeks after Fiji attracted negative headlines around the world when seven tourists - including four Australians - were hospitalised after drinking pina coladas at a bar in the ritzy Warwick Resort last month. Four Australian women aged between 18 and 56 ended up in a critical condition in hospital after consuming the drinks at the five-star resort. They suffered nausea, vomiting and neurological symptoms with one victim's friend telling Daily Mail Australia that she was 'foaming at the mouth' and having seizures. A toxicology report had cleared the cocktails - and the source of the poisoning remains a mystery. 'I can confirm that no illicit substances or methanol were found in the ingredients or liquor samples,' Fiji's deputy prime minister Viliame Gavoka said. 'All of the affected tourists and the locals have now been discharged from medical care, fully recovered. This is a significant relief.' 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028 A teenage boy has been rushed to hospital with serious injuries after falling while train surfing in Sydney's west. Emergency services rushed to the rail corridor between Seven Hills and Blacktown train stations after receiving a concern for welfare call at about 10am on Monday. Police were told a 14-year-old boy was believed to be standing on the outside of the train before he fell onto the tracks. Paramedics treated the teen at the scene and was rushed to The Children's Hospital at Westmead in a serious condition. It's understood the boy suffered serious injuries to his back, head, arm and torso. Police are investigating the incident. Three Monterey County residents were hospitalized after eating poisonous mushrooms purchased from an unlicensed vendor in Salinas, according to health officials. The mushrooms, which appeared to be common white button mushrooms, were actually death cap mushrooms (Amanita phalloides), a highly toxic variety sold by a vendor operating out of a van in a supermarket parking lot. DEA / P. PUCCINELLI/Getty Images/DeAgostini Three Monterey County residents were hospitalized after eating poisonous mushrooms purchased from an unlicensed vendor in Salinas, according to health officials. The mushrooms, which appeared to be common white button mushrooms, were actually death cap mushrooms (Amanita phalloides), a highly toxic variety. The victims developed severe liver damage and were initially treated in a Salinas hospital on Dec. 31 before being transferred to specialized Bay Area facilities for treatment of acute hepatotoxicity due to severe mushroom poisoning. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Authorities said the mushrooms were sold by a vendor operating out of a van in a supermarket parking lot in East Salinas. Health officials are concerned that the vendor may be selling mushrooms at multiple locations. Although death cap mushrooms resemble common edible varieties, they contain powerful toxins that can cause severe illness. Symptoms of poisoning typically appear 1 to 6 hours after consumption and may include excessive salivation, constriction of the pupils, sweating, dizziness, muscle twitching, confusion, and, in severe cases, coma or seizures. These early symptoms may seem to improve, but the toxins continue to damage the liver, potentially leading to liver failure or death. Anyone who experiences these symptoms after eating mushrooms is urged to seek immediate medical attention. Health providers are encouraged to ask patients where they obtained mushrooms and report any suspected cases of poisoning to local authorities. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Health officials also warned the public to avoid purchasing mushrooms from unlicensed vendors and to only buy from reputable sources. A skull found in a national park may belong to a child and appears to have been deliberately placed. Police are investigating after a bushwalker made the gruesome discovery about 10 metres off a track in Springbrook National Park on the Gold Coast on Friday morning. Police say the skull is small and may belong to a child or a person of light build, and a crime scene has been declared. 'Initial suggestions are that the skull has been placed there,' Chief Superintendent Craig Hanlon said on Monday, adding that further examinations, including DNA and carbon dating, could take months. Forensic pathologists and the Queensland Police Service's bone expert are examining the skull. There's no evidence of a recent death or foul play in the area. 'The skull looks like it has been in the conditions for a long time ... it wasn't submerged or buried; it was lying on the ground,' Chief Supt Hanlon said. An investigation has been launched into the origin of a human skull which was found by a bushwalker in Springbook Nation Park (pictured) on Friday morning Police believe the skull may belong to a child or a person of light build but revealed there is no evidence to suggest it being a recent death or the result of foul play Springbrook National Park is a popular tourist destination known for its lush rainforest and scenic hiking trails. Police are probing how the skull came to be in the park, with investigators exploring possibilities ranging from it being a misplaced museum artefact to a prank. 'There's a lot of questions we need answers for, and that's why our investigation is ongoing,' Chief Supt Hanlon said. No other bones or evidence of criminal activity have been found in the area following a thorough search involving about 100 State Emergency Service volunteers. A young tourist raped in Fiji has warned holidaymakers to beware of the island paradise in a chilling warning that comes as the man accused of raping a Virgin Australia flight crew member faced court on Monday. Ilaisa Tanoa Degei allegedly posed as a taxi driver on New Year's Eve, picked up the Virgin Australia hostess from a Nadi bar and allegedly raped her on the way to her hotel. Now, an earlier victim of a similar attack has broken her silence about her terrifying sex assault by a man she had spoken to just hours earlier. The 26-year-old woman, from Japan, was on a short stopover at Westfield Homestay in Nadi on her way back from Tonga last April when she alleges she was subjected to a brutal sexual assault. But despite police knowing her attacker's identity, she believes the rapist was allowed to go free to protect Fiji's 'tropical paradise' reputation 'I even gave them a copy of his passport that my friend collected from reception and still he wasn't arrested,' the victim - known as Ms R - told Daily Mail Australia. 'They care more about making money than they do about the safety of women.' Ms R says as soon as she left Fiji she was completely stonewalled by the authorities and has been left traumatised by both the attack and her shocking treatment since. 'I was just a traveller, so if the police don't do anything about it, then it's like there is no problem in Fiji,' said Ms R. 'Rather than cover it up, they're just pretending it didn't happen at all. It's so disappointing.' A Japanese tourist alleges she was raped on her second night in Fiji and then stonewalled by island authorities after leaving the island paradise The victim shared a series of bruises she alleges to have suffered during the alleged assault with Daily Mail Australia The 26-year-old was on a short stopover at Westfield Homestay (pictured) in Nadi when a guest brutally attacked her The woman was on her way back from Tonga last April when she was subjected to the brutal sex assault in her accommodation (pictured) Ms R, a physiotherapist, was awake in her dormitory when a man who said he was from Guwahati, Assam, India but 'living in Australia' asked her to turn off the light. He told her he wanted to sleep - but later that night she says she was attacked by the same man who raped her in the dark dormitory. 'That could not have been his first time,' she said. 'He seemed to know how to treat my resistance and if he has done it once then he will do it again.' Ms R had visible injury marks on her neck and leg which she photographed as evidence. She told a Fijian friend about the incident the following morning and they went together to reported the attack at Namaka Police Station. After she gave details and location of her attacker, including a copy of his passport, the police then took her to the hospital for medical examinations. But after leaving Fiji the following day, Ms R says her case was forgotten. 'They never contacted me again and even when I call them they don't give me any update,' she said. Ms R now says she will never return to Fiji and was devastated when she heard about the alleged rape of theVirgin Australia staff member just months after her own ordeal. Alleged 'fake taxi driver' Ilaisa Tanoa, 24, was escorted to the Nadi Magistrates Court on Monday in a police vehicle wearing a brightly coloured shirt A female member of a Virgin Australia flight crew was allegedly sexually assaulted outside the Bar One nightspot in Nadi, on Fiji's west coast, in the early hours of New Years Day while a male colleague was robbed and needed to go to hospital to be treated for a facial injury Virgin Australia's crew are now back in Australia having been asked to remain 'contactable' during the investigation so they can help police with their ongoing enquiries But she says she has no trust in Fiji's justice system after what she went through. The 21-year old Virgin cabin crew member had gone out with colleagues to a nightclub district and was allegedly sexually assaulted after leaving Bar One club while trying to get back to her hotel. Degei, 24, a farmer from Fiji's largest island Viti Levu, was charged on Saturday with the New Years Day attack and faced Nadi Magistrates Court on Monday. The woman, who had been separated from her friends, was attempting to make her way home following the nightclub's 1am lockout. A male colleague was also assaulted and robbed in a separate incident after he left the same club. Daily Mail Australia last week exposed Nadi's sinister underbelly which has left unsuspecting travellers sitting ducks for criminals in the tourist town. Many taxis refuse to work in the area after 10pm following a spate of brutal robberies on cab drivers, leaving revellers stranded. 'They're like sitting ducks with often no way home or back to hotels before sunrise,' a Fiji local told Daily Mail Australia. 'A taxi driver was murdered last year and many others robbed so they've refused to work late until the government do more to protect them. 'It's not only caused problems for people getting back to their hotels, but it has left groups of heavily intoxicated men loitering around the streets. 'There were safety concerns months ago so the government changed the club operating hours to close at 1am on New Year's Eve instead of 6am as usual. 'Attacks on tourists are not new, but have been covered up wherever possible.' The babyface California man accused of helping a Wisconsin teenager plan a school shooting that took the lives of a student and a teacher has broken his silence. Alexander Paffendorf appeared by video in a collared shirt and tie in court on Friday to face the consequences of his actions, without detailing his role in the Abundant Life Christian School shooting on December 16. He said he was ready for a hearing on whether a restraining order confiscating his guns and ammunition should remain in place, and expressed remorse for his actions. Police have said Paffendorf admitted to federal agents that he had been messaging school shooter 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow about attacking a government building with a gun and explosives while she carried out the attack at the small Christian school. Shortly afterwards, neighbors told CBS 8 they saw more than a dozen police cars enter the apartment complex where Paffendorf lives on Tuesday night and saw officers coming out of the building carrying what was described as a 'black gun box.' Paffendorf has not been charged with any wrongdoing, but an attorney for the city of Carlsbad told Judge Devon Lomayesva that he was under criminal investigation. A detective also told the judge the FBI is expected to conclude its investigation within two to three months - prompting Lomayesva to delay consideration on the restraining order. He explained that it was in Paffendorf's best interest to delay the hearing, as he is under criminal investigation but did not have an attorney present. Alexander Paffendorf appeared by video in a collared shirt and tie in court on Friday to face the consequences of his actions He allegedly admitted to agents that he had been messaging 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow (pictured) about attacking a government building with a gun and explosives The ruling keeps the order to confiscate Paffendorf's weapons in effect through April 4, as police continue their investigation into the school shooting and Paffendorf's role. Authorities have previously said Rupnow entered Abundant Life Christian School with two handguns - but only used one to carry out the attack, which took the lives of 14-year-old student Rubi Patricia Vergara and 42-year-old teacher Erin Michelle West. Police then received a call at 10.57am, and officers arrived just seconds later. By 11.05, officers found Rupnow wounded as they recovered her weapon. She was later pronounced dead on the way to the hospital as fire department workers cared for at least six other victims, whose injuries ranged from minor to life-threatening. A motive for the shooting still remains unclear, with police saying they do not know whether anyone was specifically targeted in the attack as some have suggested. Police, along with the FBI, are now scouring online records and other resources, as well as speaking with the shooter's parents and classmates in an attempt to determine a motive for the shooting. Authorities were also seen raiding the Rupnows' Wisconsin home following the tragedy. Rupnow shot and killed 14-year-old student Rubi Patricia Vergara and 42-year-old teacher Erin Michelle West before turning the gun on herself on December 16 A motive for the shooting at Abundant Life Christian School (pictured) remains unclear Investigators are trying to determine whether Rupnow's parents, Jeff and Melissa, had any involvement or contributed to Natalie's actions. Online court records show no criminal cases against her father, Jeffrey Rupnow, or her mother, Mellissa Rupnow. They are divorced and shared custody of their daughter, but she primarily lived with her father, according to court documents. Divorce records indicate that Rupnow was in therapy in 2022, but don't say why. A bizarre conspiracy claiming Elon Musk uses an alias to praise himself on his own social media network took an unexpected turn when a journalist who debunked the theory was banned from the platform. Jacqueline Sweet appeared to be restricted on X after she published an investigation that proved Adrian Dittmann was an actual person living in Fiji - and not Musk operating under the pseudonym in order to praise himself. Shortly after Sweet's article - outing Dittmann as a German entrepreneur - was published in The Spectator World, Musk responded a predictably cryptic post on X. 'I am Adrian Dittmann. It's time the world knew,' Musk deadpanned. His response, of course, only increased the intrigue surrounding the superfan. Meanwhile, according to Sweet's managing editor, the reporter's account was suspended for 30 days. In addition, links to her article about Dittmann have been hit with a warning label, alleging 'violent or misleading content.' For years, Dittmann's X account has drawn attention for its effusive praise of Musk, sparking rumors that the Tesla CEO had been using the account to defend himself and promote his views. Critics pointed to similarities in writing styles and accents, even going as far as to suggest Musk was using a voice modulator to pose as Dittmann in live X Spaces chatrooms. A swirling online conspiracy claiming Elon Musk uses an alias to praise himself on his own social media platform, X, has now taken a bizarre turn Shortly after the article went live, Musk responded on X poking fun at the piece writing: 'I am Adrian Dittmann. It's time the world knew.' Hours later Adrian Dittman, or the user behind, posted the same message as Musk The rumors gained traction with other news outlets including Rolling Stone, Newsweek, and The Verge exploring the theory. Some claimed to have evidence that appeared to connect Musk and Dittmann directly. That was all later debunked. Sweet's investigation seemed to put the speculation to rest once and for all. Using a combination of social media analysis, AI comparisons, and government video footage, Sweet identified Dittmann as a young, blonde German entrepreneur who lives in Fiji. His business ventures and personal history, including participation in a Musk Foundation carbon removal contest, matched details provided by the Dittmann account. Despite the detailed reporting setting the record straight, Sweet's X account was promptly restricted, with the platform accusing her of 'doxxing.' Screenshots shared by Spectator World Managing Editor Matt McDonald showed that Sweet is barred from posting for 30 days, with users attempting to access her article met with warnings about unsafe content. The move has sparked fierce debate. Critics of Musk and X accused the platform of suppressing journalism to protect Musk's image. Journalist Jacqueline Sweet's X account was restricted after she published an investigation debunking claims that Musk was operating under the pseudonym Adrian Dittmann in order to praise himself Sweet's was told that her X account was suspended for 30 days for violating rules The real-world Adrian Dittmann is pictured at a government event in Fiji last year Photos and video also show real Dittman with a woman who bears a resemblance to AI artwork the Dittman X account created of his 'significant other' 'This is a direct assault on press freedom,' one commentator wrote. Others highlighted the irony of Musk's previous condemnation of Twitter's suppression of the Hunter Biden laptop story during the 2020 election. Supporters of Musk, however, celebrated Sweet's suspension, arguing that her reporting crossed ethical boundaries by revealing private details about Dittmann. Musk, who has described himself as a free speech absolutist has touted X as a bastion of open dialogue, only to now face accusations of using the platform to stifle dissent. Regardless, the fascination with Dittmann persists. Sweet's report described him as the son of a German software engineer, with a history of business ventures including a bottled water company and a marina. His social media accounts and participation in events like the Musk Foundation's $100 million Xprize Carbon Removal Contest lend credence to Sweet's findings. Photos and videos of Dittmann show a striking resemblance to his AI-generated profile pictures, down to the woman who frequently appears alongside him, matching artwork posted by his account. Still, critics note that Dittmann was not interviewed for the article, leaving some details about his identity unconfirmed. As Sweet's suspension continues to draw attention, Musk remains characteristically unbothered, even joking about the situation on X. The pair appeared on Spaces to directly address claims Adrian was a Musk alt account Dittmann made headlines in 2023 when Musk directly acknowledged the similarity in their voices after the former appeared on Alex Jones' controversial InfoWars podcast. The billionaire tech entrepreneur commented, 'at some point theres just going to be like 100 AI clones of me that sound exactly the same.' Speaking late on X's Spaces last February, the pair spoke to each other while directly addressing claims Musk was posing as Dittmann. Musk says: 'Alex Jones thinks it's me?' Dittmann begins to explain the conspiracy before he is cut off by Musk laughing. Musk continues: 'There's eight billion people on the earth. The odds are there's someone who sounds like me somewhere. And you are that person.' 'Honestly, I don't believe you're not me,' he jokes. 'People think I'm legitimately your clone,' Dittmann responds. 'Like one of your Neuralink experiments. Can you clarify that I'm not one of your Neuralink experiments? Or maybe I am and I just wouldn't realize it?' I honestly enjoy the less gimmicky approach of calling posts for what they are as opposed to tweets. Adrian Dittmann (@AdrianDittmann) February 5, 2024 It took Boston Dynamics 30 years to achieve what Tesla achieved in one Adrian Dittmann (@AdrianDittmann) January 16, 2024 To whom it may concern, I am not Elon Musk Adrian Dittmann (@AdrianDittmann) May 6, 2024 Musk suggests: 'Well, the thing is you even ask questions in the way that I would ask questions!' Dittmann says he discovered Musk watching SpaceX videos in 2016, before his partner pointed out the similarities in how they sound. 'Something's not quite right with this world. Probably like a bug in the simulation,' Dittmann continues. But he goes on to brush off the furor around the comparisons since as the 'stupidest thing I've ever seen'. Musk asks what Dittmann looks like when a third voice chimes in, 'I've seen Adrian: he could be your twin!' Dittmann later goes on to praise Musk for his work on X, saying he uses Spaces 'practically eight hours a day, three times a week' before chatting about Musk's family. The call was prompted by the rumors online, which led Dittmann to write on Sunday: 'You know you've made it when there are conspiracy theories about you on the internet.' Dittmann also showed support for Musk's rebrand of the X site, writing: 'I honestly enjoy the less gimmicky approach of calling posts for what they are as opposed to tweets.' Last January, Dittmann showered praise on Tesla tweeting: 'It took Boston Dynamics 30 years to achieve what Tesla achieved in one.' Of most interest to speculators were the posts outwardly praising X's direction. Last February, Dittmann wrote: 'Anything is possible on the everything app X.' He previously wrote: 'X will become the gold standard for social media platforms of the future.' DailyMail.com has reached out to X for comment. A woman has filmed the terrifying moment she busted and confronted an alleged intruder inside her home. Flora Socratous leapt into action after waking up to find the unwelcome visitor in her inner-city Melbourne home about 6am on Sunday. She found him in the kitchen and began filming after he ran into the bathroom. The video showed the male alleged intruder wearing a green jumper, beanie and mask with a backpack running down a hallway trying to flee through the front door with Ms Socratous in hot pursuit. 'How did you get into my home?' she called out. The alleged intruder was unable to unlock the screen door. 'What's in your bag?' Ms Socratous repeatedly called out. He eventually headed into a bedroom, where he climbed out of the same window he used to break into the home. Flora Socratous admits she was 'silly' to confront and chase the home intruder The homeowner claimed that the intruder (pictured in the bathroom) requested that she stop filming him The alleged intruder then climbed over a side fence and fled the scene. Nothing was stolen from the home. One day on, a shaken Ms Socratous has no idea of how the intruder broke into the Windsor property her family have called home for 50 years. It's the first time their home has ever been broken into. 'He managed to break the (window) latch- I have no idea how he managed to released the pin,' Ms Socratous told Seven News. 'He got in. I wasn't sure if someone was still in the house so by the time I got up, he was already in the kitchen.' The alleged intruder wasn't impressed about being filmed and tried to push the homeowner out of the way as he attempted to flee and ran into the bathroom. 'He said 'don't record me, and that's when he was losing it,' Ms Socratous recalled. 'You think it would never happen to you, but it can happen.' She admitted that she was 'silly' to chase him without knowing whether he was armed. Ms Socratous now plans to install a security alarm system. 'I'm living in fear. Is it going to happen again?' she said. The alleged intruder (pictured) headed to a bedroom before he climbed out the window. He then climbed over a fence and escaped A homeowner has caught the terrifying moment she encountered an alleged intruder in her home on camera.The alleged intruder is pictured The alleged intruder remains on the run. Victoria Police are investigating the break-in. 'Police are investigating an aggravated burglary which occurred in Upton Road, Windsor,' a spokeswoman told Daily Mail Australia. 'Officers have been told a resident confronted a male inside their property about 6am on January 5.' 'The male jumped out a window and ran off. Fortunately no one was hurt and nothing was stolen.' 'The investigation into the incident is ongoing.' Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers. The alleged intruder's face can be seen as he climbed over the gate to escape The burglary comes after the Police Association Victoria unleashed on the Victorian government last week in the wake of an 'explosion of home invasions' across Melbourne. The union said that residents had been 'compelled to engage their own private security' to patrol their neighbourhoods and ward off potential offenders. 'This is an indictment on the government's failure to properly resource our police force,' the statement read. The union added the crime rate is so high because the police force has '1,000 vacancies, more than 900 police off-work due to injury and illness and 43 police stations closures'. 'The consequence we're now seeing is neighbourhoods banding together to fund their own private security, and not for the first time,' the union added. 'This is simply unacceptable.' The union also claimed the state government is 'sitting on their hands' instead of finding a solution. It urged the government to 'come to the table and negotiate a fair pay deal' to attract new recruits and stop the 'exodus of experienced police officers'. The eldest daughter of disgraced YouTube star Ruby Franke has made a bombshell announcement just days before she releases her tell-all book about the horrors she faced at the hands of her mother. Shari Franke, 21, shared a photo to Instagram last week, showing a ring on her manicured left hand - as she announced her engagement and told her 621,000 followers she will no longer be sharing details about her personal life. 'I'm excited to share that I'm engaged!' the child's rights activist wrote. 'However, for me, this is the end of me sharing my private life. 'I've had my voice and agency taken for so long and now I'm putting my foot down,' she continued. 'I'm not going to talk about my wedding, future husband or future kids. 'I'll continue to advocate for kids who didn't have a voice (so you'll still be seeing me, don't worry) but this is closure for me. I'm moving on with my life and that's true freedom and joy,' Franke clarified. 'Please respect my privacy and the privacy of my future family and don't speculate or pry. This is my wish and my gift to my family.' Shari has long claimed her mother exploited her and her siblings in an effort to get views on YouTube. Ruby, now 42, was eventually arrested for aggravated child abuse of her 12-year-old son and nine-year-old daughter in what prosecutors described as a 'concentration camp-like setting,' and was sentenced in February to up to 30 years in prison. Shari Franke, the eldest daughter of YouTube star Ruby Franke, made a bombshell announcement just days before she releases her tell-all book about the horrors she faced at the hands of her mother She shared a photo to Instagram last week, showing a ring on her manicured left hand - as she announced her engagement and told her 621,000 followers she will no longer be sharing details about her personal life Prosecutors detailed in court how the YouTube sensation, who dispensed parenting advice to her 2.5 million subscribers, subjected her children to horrors including starvation and forcing her son to endure severe sunburn by working outdoors for several weeks without adequate protection. She would also tell her two youngest children they were 'evil and possessed' and handcuffed her son's wrist and ankles while holding his head underwater. During Franke's trial, jurors were shown disturbing doorbell camera footage that showed her son arriving at a neighbor's house in shackles, asking for help and directions to the police. The emaciated and badly bruised 12-year-old had just escaped from the home of Franke's business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, police said. Images displayed in court also showed the two emaciated victims with infected cuts on their legs, duct tape around their arms and feet and scratches and bruises on their bodies. Over the course of an ensuing investigation, police discovered a cramped safe room in the basement of the home that was locked from the outside, rope that would be used to tie up the children, and adult diapers. The boy also told police that his mother and Hildebrandt would dress their wounds with honey and cayenne pepper, both of which were later found at the home. Prosecutors additionally claimed the young children were prohibited from interacting with others and were hidden in the home when people came to visit. Ruby, now 42, was eventually arrested for aggravated child abuse of her 12-year-old son and nine-year-old daughter in what prosecutors described as a 'concentration camp-like setting,' and was sentenced in February to up to 30 years in prison The family always seemed happy and healthy in the videos and posts Ruby shared online By the time police arrived at Franke's home, Shari said she feared the worst. 'My initial thought is that my siblings are dead,' she recently told PEOPLE, as she promotes her new memoir, The House of My Mother: A Daughter's Quest for Freedom. In the book, which is due to be released Tuesday, Shari details what happened when she once called child protective services in an effort to protect her young siblings. 'Ruby's face contorted with anger and hurt. "I can't believe you called the police on me," she began, her voice rising. "After everything I've done for you, after all the sacrifices I've made. How could you betray me like that Shari? How could you be so selfish?"' an excerpt from the tell-all reads. '"Selfish?" I repeated, finding strength in my voice. "I was worried about the kids. They were alone for five days, Mom. Five days!"' '"They're fine," Ruby snapped. "They're old enough to take care of themselves. This is about you, Shari. Your jealously, your need for attention."' 'I felt a bubble of hysterical laughter rise in my throat,' Shari wrote. 'How could she twist this around, make it about me? But then wasn't that always her way?' Shari's memoir, The House of My Mother: A Daughter's Quest for Freedom, is due to be released on Tuesday '"This isn't about me," I said, my voice steadier than I felt. "It's about doing what's right."' 'Ruby's eyes flashed dangerously. "What's right? You have no idea what's right. You're just a child playing at being an adult. Your siblings are terrified of you now for calling the police on them."' 'Ruby's face hardened, her lips twisting into a sneer. "One day, Shari, you'll come crawling back to me. Begging for forgiveness. And it'll be hard for me to give it to you, but I'll be gracious."' '"I'm not going to apologize for telling the truth," I said, my voice quiet but firm.' But in Ruby's videos, the family always seemed happy and healthy, Shari previously testified to Utah's Business and Labor Interim Committee. 'I don't come today as the daughter of a felon, nor a victim of an abnormally abusive mother. I come today as a victim of family vlogging,' she told lawmakers as she advocated for further protections for child influencers. 'It is more than just filming your family life and putting it online. It is a full time job, with employees, business credit cards, managers, and marketing strategies,' Shari explained. 'The difference between family vlogging and a normal business, however, is that the employees are all children.' Shari addressed Utah lawmakers in October to advocate for further protections for child influencers She went on to share some of her most traumatic experiences as a child influencer. 'Some of our most popular videos were when my eyebrow was accidentally waxed off, and the whole world saw a crying teenager who just wanted to mourn in private,' she said. 'Or the time I was violently ill, and got the leading role in the video for that day. My friends became scarce, because dates would be filmed and none of my friends wanted to be on camera.' Shari added, 'If I could go back and do it all again, Id rather have an empty bank account now and not have my childhood plastered all over the internet. No amount of money I received has made what Ive experienced worth it.' Now, even as she releases her memoir, Shari told PEOPLE she doesn't think her mother will 'ever comprehend or understand what she's done.' 'I just hope that she can get the help she needs,' Shari said. A former animal shelter worker has admitted she planned to sell a jar containing a human toe and several bone fragments on the black market. Lilydale mum Joanna Kathlyn Kinman, 47, from Melbourne's north-east, will plead guilty to one count of offensive conduct involving human remains when her case returns to court on March 17. Her lawyer Rainer Martini indicated his client's plan to plead guilty when the case was mentioned in Ringwood Magistrates' Court on Monday. A dog was surrendered to a shelter in the Yarra Ranges where Kinman was volunteering last February following the natural death of its owner, who cannot be named for legal reasons. It's understood the dog ate part of its owner's foot before his body was discovered, the Herald Sun reported. The pet vomited up a toe and other remains, which were allegedly stored in a jar by Kinman with the intent of selling them on the black market. Kinman was later arrested following a tip-off to police but was released without charge. Following a six month investigation, she was arrested again last August and charged with offensive conduct involving human remains. Joanna Kathlyn Kinman (pictured) will plead guilty to collecting the human remains to sell on the black market The full details of Kinman's alleged crimes will be laid bare when the case returns to court in March. She faces up to two years' imprisonment. Mr Martini informed the court on Monday that his client is undergoing sessions with a forensic psychologist to understand the reasoning of her action. 'The court may be interested in looking at the avenue with regard to why my client thought this was appropriate behaviour,' Mr Martini said. He has sought for Kinman to be sentenced to a diversion program, which would see her undergo rehabilitation instead of jail time. A human toe and bone fragments were kept in a jar by the former animal shelter volunteer (pictured) after the remains were vomited up by a surrendered dog Medical reports from Kinmans counsellor and doctor will also be submitted for consideration, the court heard. The court heard that the prosecutors were 'not keen' on Mr Martini's diversion proposal. 'It's possibly unlikely that they would agree to it, given the informant is not too keen on the idea, apparently,' Mr Martini said. Kinman is no longer employed at the animal shelter, which cannot be named for legal reasons. The body of a Texas man who had set out to climb Mount Whitney 'on a whim' was found by rescuers over the weekend. Taylor Rodriguez, a 29-year-old Texas man, was found on Saturday in the Sierra Nevada mountain range an elevation of 12,000 feet near the North Fork Lone Pine Creek Trail, the Inyo County Sheriff's Office announced. Rodriguez, who was from San Antonio, had last been seen attempting to scale the towering, snow-covered peak on December 30. Despite severe winter weather conditions and treacherous terrain, he embarked on the solo journey without any clear plans or sufficient preparation, officials said. His truck was later found in a parking lot near the trailhead, prompting an extensive search and rescue operation. For those who knew Rodriguez, his sudden decision to tackle Mount Whitney, with a 14,505-foot summit and the highest peak in the continental United States, was as baffling as it was devastating. 'A lot of us don't understand what made him get in his car, drive to Whitney, and kind of do this on a whim,' said Susana Guerra, an acquaintance of Rodriguez, speaking to the Los Angeles Times. 'He's such a smart kid, really smart, and it's hard to understand what he was thinking.' Taylor Rodriguez, a 29-year-old Texas man was found on Mount Whitney on Saturday in the Sierra Nevada mountain range an elevation of 12,000 feet During winter, hikers can quickly find themselves waist-deep in snow with avalanches and the risk of hypothermia and frostbite making the mountain a dangerous prospect Guerra described Rodriguez as someone who wasn't known for high-risk adventures with his experience of climbing limited to an indoor gym climbing wall. In the spring and summer, hikers often make the 20-mile round-trip journey wearing a fleece jackets and hiking boots with more than 100,000 summiting between May and November. During winter, hikers can quickly find themselves waist-deep in snow with avalanches and the risk of hypothermia and frostbite making the mountain a dangerous prospect. Certainly, those who do decide to climb are usually veterans equipped with crampons, ice axes, helmets, ropes and a good knowledge of the route. Often skis would be used in order to get back down to the ground before nightfall. It made Rodriguez's decision to undertake such a dangerous climb alone in the depths of winter even more puzzling. The mountain, located in California's Sequoia National Park, is notorious for its icy trails, unpredictable weather, and high-altitude challenges. Rodriguez's climb took place during severe winter conditions, which likely compounded the dangers. Temperatures have been in the teens overnight with wind gusts of up to 50mph. Searchers expressed concerns early on that Rodriguez may not have had the proper equipment or experience for such a demanding ascent. Rescue helicopters were seen flying overhead on Saturday when Rodriguez's body was found In the spring and summer, hikers often make the 20-mile round-trip journey wearing a fleece jackets and hiking boots with more than 100,000 summiting between May and November The Inyo County Sheriff's Office announced how search teams found the body of Taylor Rodriguez body on Saturday Lindsey Stine, a spokesperson for the Inyo County Sheriff's Office, said it was unclear which route Rodriguez intended to take, adding that the lack of preparation likely contributed to the tragedy. Rodriguez was reported missing on January 2, three days after his planned climb. The Inyo County Sheriff's Office, alongside Inyo County Search & Rescue, launched a multi-day search operation that included ground teams and aerial reconnaissance. Authorities also issued pleas to the public, asking anyone who had been on Mount Whitney between December 30 and January 2 to report any sightings of Rodriguez. The search ended on Saturday when rescuers found his body on a remote trail. Details about the circumstances of his death remain sparse, but officials have confirmed that he did indeed succumb to the unforgiving environment of Mount Whitney. 'We are deeply saddened by this outcome and send our heartfelt sympathies to all who loved him during this difficult time,' a statement by the Sheriff's Office read. Police have arrested two men over the alleged murder of 23-year-old Chloe Jade Mason who was shot dead in a Brisbane street three days before Christmas. Queensland homicide detectives squad, with the assistance of specialist units, arrested brothers Codye Thomson, 29, and Kaine Thomson-Gleeson, 32. The men were arrested without incident in parkland off Civic Parade, Logan, around 2pm on Monday. This was after detectives believed the two alleged suspects may have fled across the border and been hiding out in NSW. Police said media and members of the public had assisted in locating the men. Chloe Jade Mason, known as CeeJay, was allegedly chased and shot by two men outside a home at Caboolture in Brisbane's north just after midnight on December 22. Queensland detectives had previously released images of the two males they believed could help solve the allegedly targeted attack on Railway Parade. Chloe Jade Mason, known to those close to her as CeeJay, was chased and shot by two men in Caboolture, southeast Queensland Detectives had released pictures of the two brothers as they urged them to come forward The men had previously last been seen in Chinderah, northern NSW, on December 30 and had visited relatives in Kempsey, NSW. Police believed they may have been travelling in a white Holden Commodore wagon with Queensland registration 953 HO4. First responders found Ms Mason unconscious at the scene and she was unable to be revived. Detectives believe Ms Mason was shot while being 'assaulted by two male persons'. Queensland police also released CCTV footage of the scene at the time of the shooting which includes audio in a public appeal for more information. They may be travelling in a white Holden Commodore wagon, pictured, with Queensland registration 953 HO4 Detective Inspector David Harbison said she had been shot at by two men, and investigators were treating her death as a homicide 'Early investigations indicate the deceased was assaulted by two male persons who may have chased her down Railway Parade,' Det Insp Harbison said previously. 'Police are investigating reports of up to three to four shots fired in that street.' Det Insp Harbison said police did not believe the incident was a random attack, with the parties involved known to each other. Anyone who travelled along Railway Parade between 11.40pm on December 21 to 12.15am on December 22 is urged to contact police. Daily Mail Australia previously revealed that Ms Mason was involved in a stabbing that almost claimed her life years before she was shot. 'I'm in the [hospital] ward now,' she shared on social media in 2016. 'Still have 24/7 nurses hanging around me, checking up [and] making sure everything is correct and that nothing is out of place. 'I have two drains in my heart to drain all the blood that's leaking from the valve that's been sliced when the knife penetrated my heart 3 cm deep. 'I am fighting through this with the love and support from my family and friends.' The shocking revelation comes after it was revealed her former on-again, off-again boyfriend Kane Alexanderson, 18, was himself stabbed to death in 2020 during a knife fight. Daily Mail Australia can reveal that in 2016 Ms Mason was involved in a stabbing that almost claimed her life Ms Mason's devastated sisters shared their tributes on social media and launched a fundraiser to pay for her funeral hours after her death on December 22 Hours after her death, Ms Mason's devastated sister launched a fundraiser to share a heartbreaking message. 'Chloe was chased down by two men and fatally shot on December 22 2024 in Brisbane,' Hannah McKone posted on GoFundMe. 'Chloe was only 23 years old.' 'Being so close to Christmas her family has no savings or financial means to give her a funeral. 'We are graciously asking for help and support in this. All funds donated will be directly utilised for Chloe's funeral service.' Another sister, Danni Mason, remembered Chloe as a 'daughter, a sister, an aunt and a friend ... who was loved by many'. 'This loss has devastated our family and we struggle to come to terms with this so close to the holidays,' she wrote. 'As sisters we grieve for the things she won't experience, all the things we aren't able to share and the memories we won't make. She was an incredible woman.' Neighbours told the ABC that they heard hearing several gunshots shortly before the woman's body was found. 'I heard about three or four gunshots and then a little bit of whimpering, and then I heard a man yelling out f***ing c***,' one recalled. '(It was) very scary.' One of the world's most recognisable drag queens, The Vivienne was once an aspiring makeup artist who earned their nickname by dressing 'head to toe' in Vivienne Westwood. The star, whose real name was James Lee Williams, tragically died last week aged 32, following a glittering career that launched to new heights when they won the inaugural season of 'RuPaul's Drag Race UK' in 2019. Born in Colwyn Bay, Wales, in April 1992, Williams grew up watching Lily Savage on TV, siting that as their first exposure to drag. Describing Wales as a 'big-fish-in-a-small-pond situation', the star moved to Liverpool aged 16 to pursue a career as a makeup artist, first working on the beauty counter in Debenhams. It was there that they earned their nickname The Vivienne for dressing entirely in Vivienne Westwood, developing their budding passion for drag while going out with friends in the evenings. In an interview for The Sunday Times in 2020, Williams said: 'I saw some drag queens at a club one night and was stunned. 'These people were getting paid to have a great night and entertain people. I knew immediately that was what I wanted to do.' Williams began performing and adopted their nickname as their official stage name, explaining they wanted to avoid a 'cheap, nasty drag name'. In 2015, Williams beat 20 fellow performers in a short competition hosted by RuPaul. The Vivienne, whose real name is James Lee Williams, has died at the age of 32 Williams is seen at the press night of The Wizard of Oz in July 2023 The Vivienne, whose real name is James Lee Williams, with their mother Caroline Williams was born in Colwyn Bay, Wales, in April 1992 In 2019, the budding star auditioned for and went on to win the first series of 'RuPaul's Drag Race UK'. Leaping from one career triumph to the next, Williams then appeared on the seventh season of 'RuPaul's Drag Race: All Stars' as The Vivienne, before becoming a finalist in 'Dancing on Ice' in 2023, where viewers branded them a 'star'. Not confining their skills to drag, Williams was also talented in musical theatre, featuring as the Wicked Witch of the West in a tour of 'The Wizard Of Oz'. Before their tragic death aged 32, Williams had just finished touring as The Vivienne with the production 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,' playing the role of 'the child catcher'. They were set to reprise the role in February, according to WestEndTheatre.com. The star married David Ludford in 2019 after meeting in Gran Canaria. Williams credited their spouse with helping them get sober from an addiction to ketamine. However, the couple announced they had separated in April 2023. Writing on Instagram, The Vivienne said at the time: 'As many may have noticed, David and I have been apart recently. 'We have made the decision to part ways after an amazing five and a half years. We are still very much friends, but sometimes life gets in the way and people grow apart.' Opening up about their drug addiction, Williams previously said: 'It was party drugs - but I couldn't leave the drugs at the party.' After acknowledging they needed to seek help, Williams underwent treatment at The Armistead Centre in Liverpool. Just days before their death last week, Williams shared a heart-wrenching social media post. The drag artist took to Instagram on Thursday to urge fans to donate to LGBTQ+ and HIV charity SAHIR. Last year The Vivienne made history as they became the first drag queen to perform on Dancing On Ice Describing Wales as a 'big-fish-in-a-small-pond situation', the star moved to Liverpool aged 16 to pursue a career as a makeup artist, developing a passion for drag along the way The Vivienne with their mother Caroline Born in Colwyn Bay, Wales, in April 1992, Williams grew up watching Lily Savage on TV, siting that as their first exposure to drag A cause is yet to be established and the post asked for privacy and space to grieve Encouraging others to give 1 a month, they wrote: 'Join me in giving back this year, everything I do charitable wise is usually for @sahirhouse house, Liverpools oldest LGBT+ charity!!! 'The work they do is incredible, thank you. 1 a month you won't miss it.' News of the talented drag artist's death was announced across social media on Sunday evening - with tributes pouring in for the star. A cause is yet to be established. Confirming the news on Instagram, The Vivienne's publicist Simon Jones wrote: 'It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams - The Vivienne, has passed this weekend. 'James was an incredibly loved, warmhearted and amazing person. Their family are heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother and uncle. 'They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career. We will not be releasing any further details. 'We please ask that James's family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.' He continued: 'These are words I never ever wanted to write. Viv was a close friend, a client and someone I loved very much. 'From the moment I met them in 2019 I knew we could create magic together and I became their manager. Their talent was immense and the light they brought to every room was astonishing. No one has ever made me laugh as much in my life as Viv did. Their comic genius and quick wit was like no other. 'I'm so proud and lucky that Viv was such a big part of my life everyday for the last five years. It's tragic that their career was only just beginning. In musical theatre Viv had found a space and career they loved, excelled and thrived in. 'I am heartbroken and devastated at this news. RIP my wonderful friend. You left us way too soon.' Outgoing San Francisco Mayor London Breed is cheered by the congregation of Glide Memorial Church in the Tenderloin during a service celebrating her leadership. Lizzy Montana Myers/Special to the Chronicle San Francisco Mayor London Breed was 15 minutes late for church Sunday, but it didnt matter. The 11 a.m. sermon at Glide Memorial Church was in her honor, and as soon as she climbed the stairs and entered the sanctuary, the people in the pews stood up and started hugging. The mayor herself joined in the group hug. Glide is love. Glide is magic. Glide is life-changing and lifesaving, she said after exiting her official vehicle and offering hugs to the people greeting her on Ellis Street in the Tenderloin. It took 10 minutes to get people back in their seats after the mayors entrance, and once they all sat back down, Minister of Celebration Marvin White got them all up again. Everybody in this house, up on your feet for our mayor, he said from the pulpit. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The service was only about half full, but most of those there were true believers in Breed, who hands over her office Wednesday to Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie after leading San Francisco for more than six years. Rick Ross of Mill Valley normally attends Glides 9 a.m. service, but he changed his Sunday routine so he could sit two rows behind the mayor at the 11 a.m. service. Members of Glide Memorial Church thank London Breed for her service to San Francisco as mayor. Lizzy Montana Myers/Special to the Chronicle What she must face being a woman of color running a major American city is daunting, said Ross, who took his seat half an hour early. She did an amazing job in the face of the pandemic, the fentanyl epidemic and homelessness. Bissa Zamboldi, a high school teacher at Hilltop in the Mission District, which caters to teenage parents, normally attends St. Pauls Catholic Church near her home in Noe Valley, but she also switched her routine to be in the presence of the mayor at Glide. She made it a point throughout her tenure to make at-risk youth a priority, Zamboldi said. Thats why Im here. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Before her own remarks, Breed did a shimmy to the walk-up music provided by the Glide Change Band. There was a time in this city before technology when you had to figure things out, she said from the pulpit, a place where she has always seemed comfortable. My grandmother made us go to church, so we knew there was a place to go if you needed help, no matter what it was. Im a girl from the projects who happened to be mayor, and when I was mayor I was still a girl from the projects. Outgoing San Francisco Mayor London Breed speaks at Glide Memorial Church during a service thanking her for her service to the city. Lizzy Montana Myers/Special to the Chronicle This is what resonated with the people at Glide as much as anything the mayor said about turning the corner in the fight against fentanyl. Theres not too many people who love the city more than me, but Mayor Breed does, said Bobby Vanderbilt, who grew up in the Bayview and attended Woodrow Wilson High. She gave her heart and soul to the city. Advertisement Article continues below this ad During her short speech, Breed thanked the people of Glide for their help in fighting the fentanyl epidemic disrupting the Tenderloin neighborhood and promised to stay in that fight with them, as a private citizen. Then Minister White invited them to come up and make a donation in honor of Mayor Breed, credit cards accepted, while the Glide Ensemble sang Total Praise. The mayor may have been late to arrive, but she stayed until the end and returned to the stage to clap and sing along to We Shall Overcome. Outgoing San Francisco Mayor London Breed sings We Shall Overcome with the choir at Glide Memorial Church. Lizzy Montana Myers/Special to the Chronicle Whether Im mayor or not, Im still London Breed from the projects, she said in closing. Im still London Breed from San Francisco. After the service, Breed stood on Ellis Street and posed for pictures, as patient and gracious as if it were a campaign stop. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Britain is braced for major floods today with hundreds of warnings in place as the country is battered by rain, snow and ice. Commuters heading back to work for the first time face treacherous journeys this morning with yellow weather warnings in place across much of the UK which has resulted in many school closures. It comes after heavy snow or icy rain over the weekend that resulted in major airports closing runways and cars stranded on roads. Our live coverage has now ended but for a full recap see below It inspired many of the greats in art and literature and has been branded one of the world's most dangerous drinks. Now, absinthe is making a resurgence. Dubbed 'the green fairy', the anise-flavored spirit is derived from several plants including the flowers of Artemisia absinthium as well as other culinary herbs. It was once so popular in France that the hour of 5pm became known as l'heure verte, or 'the green hour'. But it was banned in the early 20th Century in many countries around the world, including the United States and The Netherlands, due to concerns about its effects. Now no longer stigmatised, the spirit is making a huge comeback in the UK. Bars and distilleries are reporting a 40 to 50 per cent year-on-year growth in sales. The Absinthe Parlour in east London boasts the UK's largest collection of the green spirit and is home to The Devil's Botany, the country's first dedicated absinthe distillery which launched in 2020. Owners Allison Crawbuck and Rhys Everett have noted an increase in demand for the spirit and reported 90 per cent of their customers come to the bar having already tried it in some form, but are looking for places to go out and drink it. Ms Crawbuck told The Times: 'The wonderful legends that surround absinthe definitely draw people in. 'I think the general public are now a bit more absinthe savvy'. Absinthe is making a resurgence in the UK, with bars and distilleries nothing a 40 to 50 per cent year-on-year rise in sales. Pictured: A customer enjoying drinking from a traditional absinthe fountain in Glasgow Pictured: A traditional absinthe fountain pouring water onto a sugar cube to fill the glass of absinthe - this is in Scotland's only absinthe bar in Aberdeen Absinthe's high alcohol content and exotic appeal made it popular with the middle and upper classes in the early 20th century - pictured is a bottle and glass of Absinth 'People are celebrating it as a botanical spirit with this notorious past rather than thinking its something that you should be fearful of.' Absinthe's history is shrouded in mystery. It has origins as a medicinal remedy known as wormwood which the Greeks prescribed for menstrual pain, jaundice, anemia and rheumatism. For centuries, wormwood remained a folk medicine and in the second century CE, the physician Galen suggested it for stomach relaxation and as a remedy for swooning. It became popular in France in the 1840s after French troops were given it to prevent malaria. The drink's high alcohol content and exotic appeal made it popular with the middle and upper classes. It inspired many creative libertines, for better or for worse, including Vincent Van Gogh, Oscar Wilde and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Playwright Alfred Jarry saw his demise at the bottom of a bottle of absinthe, while Pablo Picasso dabbled in the drink for a time. Dubbed 'the green fairy', the anise-flavored spirit is derived from several plants including the flowers of Artemisia absinthium as well as other culinary herbs Pictured: The Absinthe Drinker by Viktor Oliva painted in 1901. It is based on 'the green fairy' phenomenon - a euphemism for the hallucinogenic effects of absinthe In 1905, Jean Lanfray, a French labourer in Switzerland, was convicted of murdering his wife and children while under the drink's influence sparking an anti-absinthe movement. A Swiss newspaper called it 'the premiere cause of bloodthirsty crime in this century'. It wasn't until the 1990s some countries began to revise their bands on absinthe and it is now legal in the European Union. The National Institute on Drug Abuse recently found that claims about absinthe in the early 20th century were exaggerated, but this was mainly due to the social and political factors at the time. Now the drink is inspiring the next generation of drinkers and is gaining popularity across London, The Times reported. Alternative music venues such as Blondies in Clapton and the Black Heart in Camden serve absinthe slushies, while a jazz bar in Shoreditch serves absinthe in its traditional form with a fountain. Using Wales as a backdrop for raunchy stories about fairies, mythical kingdoms and dragons is 'patronising', experts have warned. Fantasy authors have repeatedly used the country's mythology, which has strong links to the legend of King Arthur, to make novels more appealing to world audiences. Legendary writer JRR Tolkien was said to 'open the floodgates' to the trend, when using the Welsh language as the basis for Elvish in his The Lord of the Rings trilogy. But more recently, the nation's mystical associations have been mined by those writing for a new genre dubbed 'fairy porn' - which sees writers blend romance and elements of high fantasy. The genre is popular with female readers and turned Sarah J Mass into a bestselling author with her A Court Of Thorns And Roses (ACOTAR) series. The books repeatedly rehash Welsh language and lore, critics say, with the American authors characters named Rhysand, Gwyneth, Alis and Morrigan. This decision has upset some within the literary community, who say tapping into this culture 'creates an image of the country which isn't realistic'. Professor Dimitra Fimi, a lecturer in fantasy literature at the University of Glasgow, told The Telegraph: 'Wales in particular has a very rich tradition and there is a chain of key fantasy authors that have played around with that material. 'Fairy porn' has proven popular with female readers and turned Sarah J Mass into a bestselling author with the A Court Of Thorns And Roses (ACOTAR) series The ACOTAR series held half of the places in the top 10, with A Court Of Mist And Fury, Wings And Ruin, Silver Flames and Frost And Starlight featuring Legendary writer JRR Tolkien was said to 'open the floodgates' to the trend when using the Welsh language as the model of Elvish in The Lord of the Rings books 'It's a positive thing in terms of discovering a very rich new culture or opening up to other perspectives. What worries me is a particular perception of Wales developing within fantasy, which is that it's this magical, rural, romantic place. 'It can be pretty patronising. It creates an image of the country which isn't realistic. That's not all that Wales is.' Bethan Hindmarch, a Carmarthenshire bookseller and fantasy blogger, said the trend had 'increasingly become something of a pet peeve'. She believed some authors were using the country's heritage to sound more 'mystical, magical and made up'. The 'fairy porn' or 'Romantasy' genre has taken the world by storm, with its fans being mainly young middle-class women. The books feature an array of mystical creatures but, most importantly, very detailed sex scenes. Romantasy was first posted on Urban Dictionary in 2008, but it's thanks to TikTok, and Maas - whose books have sold 37 million copies - that it's really taken off. ACOTAR features a protagonist called Feyre and her love interest High Lord faerie Tamlin. Even more dastardly and alluring is the lord of the Night Court - Rhysand, the epitome of tall dark and handsome, with spades of sex appeal. Fantasy romance, or romantasy, took off after the popularity of Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros Rebecca Yarros's Fourth Wing is described as 'The Hunger Games meets 50 Shades Of Grey'. Pictured: Angelina Frerk Alicia Whatmore from Manchester added that she 'didn't know what to do with herself' after finishing the ACOTAR series On TikTok, Grace's Booknook said there are two types of people - those who have read ACOTAR, and those who haven't Also popular is Rebecca Yarros's Fourth Wing, described as 'The Hunger Games meets 50 Shades Of Grey' - again featuring morally grey love interest Xaden Riorson. Goodreads revealed last month that Fourth Wing was the most read book of 2024, attracting more than a million readers. Its sequel, Iron Flame, took second place with 999,000 readers, telling the story of the second year at Basgiath War College. The ACOTAR series held half of the places in the top 10, with A Court Of Mist And Fury, Wings And Ruin, Silver Flames and Frost And Starlight featuring. In 2023, Ms Yarros also faced criticism for her unusual pronunciation of her borrowed vocabulary in her best-selling novel Fourth Wing. She used Gaelic words to name dragons and was asked to read out in an interview to clarify how they were intended to be pronounced. Scottish readers took to social media to criticise her pronunciation, particularly her way of saying Gaelic (gay-lik) rather than using the correct sounds for Scots Gaelic (gaa-lik). But this controversy has not affected the book's sales or the genre's popularity. Julianne Buonocore, who founded book industry publication The Literary Lifestyle, told MailOnline that fantasy romance as a genre took off after the popularity of Fourth Wing. 'This made way for other fantasy series, including monster books, to become popular on TikTok,' Julianne explained about the book, which sold over two million copies globally. Ukraine's renewed New Year offensive in Kursk has prompted Vladimir Putin to dispatch one of his top generals to the occupied Russian region as the war approaches a critical juncture. Respected war-blogging channels on both sides reported Kyiv's armed forces had launched a powerful attack, with the head of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's office Andriy Yermak declaring: 'Russia is getting what it deserves.' Russia's defence ministry acknowledged that Ukrainian troops had mounted a targeted assault around the town of Berdin with several tanks - including British Challengers - a mine-clearing truck and 12 armoured combat vehicles. Ukraine's fresh assault comes with both sides seeking to strengthen their negotiating hand ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House on January 20 - just over one month shy of the three-year anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion. This morning, it emerged that Russia's deputy defence minister General Yunus-Bek Yevkurov - reputed to be one of Russia's most hardline generals and a staunch Putin ally - arrived in Kursk on Sunday, according to regional acting governor Alexander Khinshtein. A career soldier and decorated paratrooper who won the 'Hero of Russia' top military honour, Yevkurov is also a former governor of the region of Ingushetia. His participation in numerous conflicts as a paratrooper coupled with experience of negotiation and political manoeuvring as a noted governor marked him out as a wily, ruthless operator. In addition to his work as deputy defence minister, Yevkurov has also coordinated closely with Russia's mercenary Wagner Group and Russia's GRU foreign intelligence service to oversee the Kremlin's projects in Africa. 'For obvious reasons, I will not go into the details of the conversation (with Yevkurov),' Khinstein said. 'But I can say one thing for sure: the government of the Kursk region will do everything possible to help our Armed Forces in their sacred fight.' Russian troops are seen leaping from a T-90M tank A soldier walks in a ruined central market close to the frontline in Ukraine Russia sends Army General Yunus-Bek Yevkurov (left) - Vladimir Putin's deputy defence minister - to Kursk region as Ukraine stages a surprise military advance. Kursk's acting regional governor Alexander Khinstein is seen right Your browser does not support iframes. Trump's arrival in the Oval Office is widely expected to precipitate a push for a ceasefire, with the soon-to-be president and key members of his staff having alluded to a plan to strong-arm both sides into a peace deal. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said last year the Kursk operation had boosted Kyiv's 'exchange fund' - its negotiating position on swapping prisoners of war - and diverted tens of thousands of Russian troops away from the eastern front. US officials have also confirmed the occupation of Kursk as vital ahead of possible ceasefire negotiations to ensure Ukraine has 'the strongest possible hand to play'. Outgoing Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters in Seoul this morning: 'Their position in Kursk is an important one because certainly it's something that would factor in any negotiation that may come about in the coming year.' But Ukraine's offensive in Kursk has not deterred Moscow's troops from grinding ever further west. Russia's defence ministry claimed this morning its forces had captured the town of Kurakhove some 20 miles south of Pokrovsk, an important Ukrainian logistics hub towards which Russia has been advancing for months. Meanwhile, in an Sunday interview with US podcaster and scientist Lex Fridman - who was also born in the Soviet Union - Zelensky underlined the key role Trump would play in bringing about negotiations. 'Trump and I will come to an agreement and... offer strong security guarantees, together with Europe, and then we can talk to the Russians,' Zelensky said, according to the published translation of the interview held in Kyiv over the New Year. 'We and Trump come first, and Europe will support Ukraine's position,' he added. Trump, he said, 'has enough power to pressure him, to pressure Putin'. The Ukrainian president also used the three-hour interview published on YouTube to call for Ukraine's NATO membership, emphasising his belief that a ceasefire without security guarantees for Kyiv would merely give Russia time to rearm for a new attack. 'Without the United States, security guarantees are not possible. I mean these security guarantees that can prevent Russian aggression,' he said, tacitly acknowledging that Kyiv's European allies would be too weak militarily to manage on their own. Zelensky added that Trump had indicated when they spoke late last year that there would be an official Ukrainian visit to the United States soon after he takes office. 'He told me on the phone that my visit would be one of his first. This topic is important to him. I hope we will meet,' he said. The Ukrainian leader confirmed he would attend Trump's January 20 inauguration if he receives an official invitation. Ukraine's renewed New Year offensive in Kursk has prompted Vladimir Putin (L) to dispatch one of his top generals to the occupied Russian region as Volodymyr Zelensky (R) said he hoped Donald Trump could offer Ukraine security guarantees to begin ceasefire negotiations A serviceman of 24th Mechanized brigade named after King Danylo of the Ukrainian Armed Forces fires a 2s5 "Hyacinth-s" self-propelled howitzer towards Russian troops at a front line Donald Trump, right, shakes hands with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky Members of the artillery unit of the special rifle battalion of Zaporizhzhia region police fire a small multiple launch rocket system (MLRS) towards Russian troops in a front line, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Zaporizhzhia region, Ukraine December 25, 2024 Ukrainian soldiers of the 68th Jaeger Brigade continue their military activity in positions as Russia-Ukraine war continues in Pokrovsk region, Ukraine on December 27, 2024 Ukraine launched its new counterattack in the early hours of Sunday morning, using British Challenger 2 tanks to push back Russian defenders, pro-Putin Russian sources claimed. Pro-Putin Telegram channel Rybar claimed that Russia's 155th Guards Marine Brigade of the Pacific Fleet used a 'regular FPV (first-person view) drone' to destroy a Challenger 2 tank deployed as part of the offensive, but acknowledged Ukraine's attack was powerful. Video footage shared on the channel showed grainy footage of a drone flying into a tank that appears to be hidden in a treeline. MailOnline was unable to verify whether the tank was in fact a Challenger 2, 14 of which were donated by the UK in January 2023 in a move that prompted the US and Germany to follow suit with their own tanks. Footage shared to other pro-Putin Telegram channels yesterday claimed to show German tanks getting destroyed by FPV drones, while other clips displayed columns of Ukrainian armoured vehicles advancing in Kursk. MailOnline has contacted the Ministry of Defence for comment. Video footage shared on the channel showed grainy footage of a drone flying into a tank that appears to be hidden in a treeline Ukraine stages a surprise military advance inside Russia's Kursk region Columns of armoured vehicles were seen on footage advancing beyond territory already controlled by Volodymyr Zelensky's army Russia said Sunday that Ukraine had launched a 'counterattack' in the western border region of Kursk, where Kyiv's forces began a shock ground offensive last August (file image of a Russian soldier firing towards a Ukrainian position in the Kursk region) Kyiv seized dozens of villages in the Kursk region shortly after its offensive began in August, but its advances stalled after Moscow rushed reinforcements to the area, including thousands of North Korean troops. A day before Ukraine's surprise attack yesterday, Zelensky had claimed: 'Over the past two days, near Makhnovka [a village in Sudzhansky District of Kursk region], Russian forces lost a battalion composed of North Korean infantry and Russian paratroopers.' In the new push, the Ukrainian Armed Forces attacked the Russian army in several directions in the Kursk region, said Kyiv's Centre for Combating Disinformation (CCD), part of the National Security Council of Ukraine. Russian pro-war 'Z-channels' began a scaremongering campaign that the Ukrainian aim was to capture Kursk nuclear power plant, a key strategic site. However, this seems unlikely since it is 37 miles from current Ukrainian positions. Russian War Gonzo channel said: 'The [Ukrainian] advance units are moving under the cover of electronic warfare installations, which complicates their destruction using attack drones, after which the main forces are pulled up in armoured fighting vehicles. 'Attempts are being made to strike not only at the forward positions of our troops, but also at the rear areas of the Kursk region using long-range missiles and drones.' Russian aviation was active over the skies of Kursk region and a Ukrainian tank was seen being hit by a Russian Lancet kamikaze drone close to the border. The advance came after a recent visit by Ukrainian commander-in-chief General Oleksandr Syrskyi to Kursk region inside occupied Russia ahead of the advance by his troops. Keir Starmer is set to hit back at Elon Musk today in the increasingly bitter spat over his record on grooming gang cases. The PM will take questions after laying out NHS waiting list plans this morning - and is expected to mount a robust defence of his previous performance as director of public prosecutions. The tech billionaire, a key ally of returning US President Donald Trump, has been launching a blizzard of attacks on Sir Keir over the festive period. Mr Musk has claimed the premier was 'complicit' in allowing the gangs' activities to continue unchecked. This morning he posted on his X social media site that Sir Keir should be in 'prison' and asked followers whether America should 'liberate' Britain from its 'tyrannical government'. Keir Starmer is set to hit back at Elon Musk today in the increasingly bitter spat over his record on grooming gang cases The tech billionaire, a key ally of returning US President Donald Trump, has been launching a blizzard of attacks on Sir Keir over the festive period Mr Musk posted on his X social media site this morning that Sir Keir should be 'in prison' and asked followers whether America should 'liberate' Britain from its 'tyrannical government' Sir Keir has faced questions in recent days over a 2009 decision by the Crown Prosecution Service to drop a major case against an alleged grooming gang in Rochdale. But he is expected to repeat comments from 2023 when he stressed he gave the 'green light' to the first prosecution of a gang of sexual predators in Rochdale. The chairwoman of a previous inquiry that uncovered wide-ranging failings in how institutions protected children has said she is not seeking a new probe - but urged ministers to implement recommendations from her final report more than two years ago. 'Our mission is not to call for new inquiries but to advocate for the full implementation of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse's recommendations. A Child Protection Authority is critical to this process,' said Professor Alexis Jay. Writing in yesterday's Mail on Sunday, Kemi Badenoch said an inquiry should 'identify the bodies that failed as well as the individuals who facilitated or ignored these crimes so they can be removed from their roles'. Nigel Farage also backed an inquiry and said it was fair for Mr Musk to question what role, if any, Sir Keir had in decisions not to pursue serious allegations in Rochdale in 2009. Supporters point out that as DPP Sir Keir brought in a national network of specialist prosecutors for child abuse and sexual exploitation to oversee convictions against grooming gangs and changed Crown Prosecution Service guidance to focus on the credibility of allegations rather than whether victims would make good witnesses Mr Musk also posted on X, which he owns, suggesting that safeguarding minister Jess Phillips 'deserves to be in prison' for denying requests for the Home Office to lead a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham and called her a 'rape genocide apologist'. Challenged about the criticism during a round of interviews this morning, health minister Karin Smyth told Times Radio: 'I think Keir will respond to that later. He is someone who has led the attack on the evil perpetrators of these crimes and supported victims.' Put to her that 'Elon Musk says that's not true', Ms Smyth responded: 'Well, he's wrong about that, isn't he? I think most people in this country know that, and even under the previous government previous committees of the House of Commons applauded Keir Starmer for his work as the director of public prosecutions and leading the way on tackling these evil perpetrators and supporting victims, and I think most of the country do know that. 'It would be more helpful if Mr Musk wanted to use his platform to support victims. Health Secretary Wes Streeting called Mr Musk's attacks on Ms Phillips a 'disgraceful smear' yesterday. She and the Prime Minister have an 'actual record of banging up rapists, paedophiles and sex offenders, so they don't need lectures from anyone else', he said. Social media platforms can help to clamp down on those grooming children online if Mr Musk wants to 'roll his sleeves up and actually do something about tackling violence against women and girls', he said. Nigel Farage has also had a falling out with Mr Musk, after speculation about a huge donation to Reform UK The Tesla and Space X boss took aim at Ms Phillips after she wrote to Oldham council saying it must follow other towns such as Rotherham and Telford and commission its own inquiry into historical abuse of children. Labour is now facing calls for a new national inquiry from Reform UK and the Conservatives, the latter of which had refused a request for a public inquiry into events in Oldham while in government. Sir Keir's Government is against launching another nationwide probe and has said it is working to implement recommendations from Professor Jay's inquiry, which concluded in 2022. That inquiry looked into abuse by organised groups following multiple convictions of sexual offences against children across the UK between 2010-2014, including in Rotherham, Cornwall, Derbyshire, Rochdale and Bristol. A woman has died in hospital two weeks after she was injured in the Christmas market attack in Germany, bringing the total of people killed to six. The 52-year-old died of the serious injuries she sustained when Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, 50, rammed his SUV into a packed market in the town of Magdeburg on December 20, killing four other women aged 45 to 75 and Andre Gleiner, 9. At least 299 people were injured, according to the interior ministry of the Saxony-Anhalt, with federal commissioner Roland Weber adding there were as many as 531 victims, including those who were traumatised after witnessing the horrifying attack. The woman reportedly died a few days ago and a friend told German tabloid Bild that she had been recovering well until there were complications following a surgery. Authorities said the attacker used emergency exit points to drive onto the grounds of the Christmas market, where he picked up speed and ploughed into the crowds, hitting more than 200 people in a three-minute attack. This climbing death toll comes after Germany's interior minister said on December 30 that it was still too soon to jump to any conclusions about Abdulmohsen. Authorities are looking into whether there were security lapses in the build-up to the December 20 attack, which has cast a renewed spotlight on security and immigration ahead of a snap election in Germany. Abdulmohsen is a Saudi doctor who arrived in Germany in 2006 and had received permanent residency. Police arrested a 50-year-old Saudi doctor identified as Taleb al-Abdulmohsen after he rammed his SUV into a packed market in the town of Magdeburg The 52-year-old woman died due to her serious injuries sustained when Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, 50, rammed his SUV into a packed market in the town of Magdeburg on December 20, killing four other women aged 45 to 75 and Andre Gleiner, 9 Al-Abdulmohsen drove his SUV into the packed Christmas market in Magdeburg on December 20 Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, 50, rammed his SUV into a packed market in the town of Magdeburg on December 20, killing four women aged 45 to 75 and nine-year-old Andre Gleiner (pictured) Al-Abdulmohsen was pictured in a white t-shirt as he arrived at court in the evening of December 21, where he was remanded on charges of murder, attempted murder and causing grievous bodily harm Social media accounts falsely alleged al-Abdulmohsen was an Islamist terrorist shortly after the attack, but the German interior minister later identified the suspect as being Islamophobic himself. 'The perpetrator does not fit into any previous categorisation,' Faeser said after a four-hour session of a ministerial committee focused on the attack just before Christmas She promised a full investigation. 'Every stone will be turned over here.' A harsh critic of Germany's past welcome too many Muslim migrants, Abdulmohsen wrote on the platform X that he wished ex-chancellor Angela Merkel could be jailed for life or executed. In 2015, Merkel implemented an 'open door' policy, which allow over a million asylum seekers to cross the border into Germany. The exiled Saudi attacker had praised hard-Right politicians for combating the 'Islamisation' of Europe and pledged to take 'revenge' over harassment of female refugees. Al-Abdulmohsen had voiced support for Elon Musk, Tommy Robinson and Alternative for Germany, the hard-right anti-immigration party, trying to build connections to hard-right organisations in Germany and the UK. Musk reposted a tweet by Nigel Farage which blamed the Christmas market attack on border policies. And as the surging AfD party seeks to rally support in the run-up to Germany's snap federal election, the chair pointedly asked 'When will this madness end?' Tempers are strained after it was revealed police were warned about the 'unstable' suspect in September last year, but did nothing more than take screenshots of his twisted online threats. Local outlet Die Welt reported that German state and federal police had carried out a 'risk assessment' on al-Abdulmohsen last year but concluded that he posed 'no specific danger'. The Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, seen abandoned and empty on December 21 The Saudi suspect, psychiatrist and anti-Islam activist al-Abdulmohsen, had made online death threats against German citizens and had a history of quarrelling with state authorities A woman holds a candle as others watch a prayer ceremony outside the Magdeburg Dom church, the day after the devastating attack Firefighters patrol the scene of the crash on December 20 after a car rammed into a massive crowd of shoppers at a Christmas market in Magdeburg at around 7pm Tributes to the victims are seen outside the Johanniskirche, a makeshift memorial near the site of a car-ramming attack on a Christmas market in Magdeburg, eastern Germany, on December 22, 2024 Public workers clean the Christmas Market, where a car drove into a crowd on December 20 Tributes to the victims of the devastating attack are seen near the market on December 22 Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned the 'terrible, insane' attack and made a call for national unity amid high political tensions as Germany heads towards February 23 elections. But as German media dug into al-Abdulmohsen's past, and investigators gave away little, criticism has rained down from the far-right and far-left parties already bitterly opposed to the Scholz government. The Saudi suspect, psychiatrist and anti-Islam activist al-Abdulmohsen, had made online death threats against German citizens and had a history of quarrelling with state authorities. News magazine Der Spiegel, citing security sources, said the Saudi secret service had warned Germany's spy agency BND a year ago about a tweet in which al-Abdulmohsen threatened Germany would pay a 'price' for its treatment of Saudi refugees. And in August al-Abdulmohsen wrote on social media: 'Is there a path to justice in Germany without blowing up a German embassy or randomly slaughtering German citizens?... If anyone knows it, please let me know.' In a post in December last year, he wrote: 'Germany is the only country other than Saudi Arabia that chases female Saudi asylum seekers all over the world to destroy their lives. 'Revenge will come soon. Even if it costs me my life. I will make the German nation pay the price of the crimes committed by its government against Saudi refugees.' The Home Office is refusing to reveal how many grooming gang members have been deported amid calls for a government-backed inquiry into the scandal. There are countless examples of foreign criminals managing to avoid being sent back to their home countries after serving jail time for serious offences. Some are convicted child groomers such as Qari Abdul Rauf, a ringleader of the Rochdale paedophile ring who was still living in the UK in 2024. The father of five - who worked as a taxi driver and Muslim preacher - was among nine Asian men found guilty of sex offences against vulnerable girls in 2012 and received a six year jail sentence. He was released in November 2014 after serving just two years and six months and - despite former Home Secretary Theresa May ordering him to be deported - he remained in Rochdale as of this time last year. Pakistan reportedly refused to take Rauf, prompting fury among victims who were forced to continue living alongside him. Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, last night called on ministers to restrict visas for countries such as Pakistan if they refuse to accept groomers. Qari Abdul Rauf, a ringleader of the Rochdale paedophile ring, was still living in the UK in 2024 'Governments have been trying to deport these perpetrators for years, including stripping them of citizenship where possible,' he told the Telegraph. 'If their original home country does not take them back, we should look at reducing or stopping visas to nationals of those countries. 'I expect the countries concerned will then rapidly reconsider their position.' The Home Office insists that it will 'do everything' to ensure serious foreign offenders are deported, but has declined to reveal the specific figures for convicted groomers. Former Home Secretary Suella Braverman has called for a 'zero tolerance approach' to the deportation of foreign child sex offenders. She said: 'We need to have a zero tolerance approach when it comes to deporting those foreign nationals who have been found guilty of these heinous crimes.' However, a Home Office source said that the number of foreign criminals being deported from the UK dropped under the Conservative government. It comes as Sir Keir Starmer prepares to mount a defence of the grooming gangs scandal amid mounting pressure for a public inquiry. The Home Office has declined to reveal the specific figures for convicted groomers. Pictured is Home Secretary Yvette Cooper Whitehall sources said the PM will use a press conference this morning to justify his actions as director of public prosecutions more than a decade ago, which tech billionaire Elon Musk has claimed makes him 'complicit' in allowing the gangs' activities to continue unchecked. Sir Keir is expected to repeat comments from 2023 when he stressed he gave the 'green light' to the first prosecution of a gang of sexual predators in Rochdale. But he has faced questions in recent days over a 2009 decision by the Crown Prosecution Service to drop a major case against an alleged grooming gang in Rochdale. Health Secretary Wes Streeting yesterday hit back at Mr Musk's 'ridiculous' criticism of the Government's handling of the scandal. In a series of media interviews, he accused Mr Musk of a 'disgraceful smear' against safeguarding minister Jess Phillips over her decision to reject calls for a Government-backed inquiry into the failure to tackle the activities of paedophile gangs operating in Oldham. Mr Musk said last week Ms Phillips 'deserves to be in prison' for denying the request. But Mr Streeting described his attacks on the PM and Ms Phillips as 'ill-informed', adding: 'People like Keir Starmer and Jess Phillips have done the hard yards of actually locking up wife beaters, rapists, paedophiles.' Writing in yesterday's Mail on Sunday, Kemi Badenoch said an inquiry should 'identify the bodies that failed as well as the individuals who facilitated or ignored these crimes so they can be removed from their roles'. Seven men who were jailed for a total of 106 years for being part of a grooming gang in Rotherham Nigel Farage also backed an inquiry and said it was fair for Mr Musk to question what role, if any, Sir Keir had in decisions by the Crown Prosecution Service not to pursue serious allegations in Rochdale in 2009. Mr Streeting said numerous inquiries had already been conducted and it was now time to get on and implement the recommendations. Today, Professor Alexis Jay - who led the national inquiry into child sexual abuse - called for the 'full implementation' of reforms set out in her 2022 report. The academic distanced herself from demands for a new independent probe and urged instead the introduction of measures like a child protection authority which she recommended two years ago. She said: 'Our mission is not to call for new inquiries but to advocate for the full implementation of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse's recommendations. A child protection authority is critical to this process.' In a statement, the Government said it was working 'at pace' to deliver the reforms set out in the 2022 review, which found abuse was 'endemic' across society in England and Wales. 'No child should ever suffer sexual abuse or exploitation and it is paramount we do more to protect vulnerable children - which is why we are working at pace across government to drive forward real action to implement the recommendations of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse,' a spokesperson said. 'Professor Alexis Jay worked for seven years on a comprehensive independent inquiry and continues to work with survivors of these heinous crimes - and this Government is committed to working closely with survivors and expert groups like Act on IICSA.' A shocking video shows two sword-wielding men having a machete fight in the middle of a London street on Friday night. One of the men takes a downward swing at the other with a huge 2ft-long blade as his adversary - also holding a huge machete - steps back. About 10 other men, all clad in black, are involved in the running battle up the street. The terrifying scene took place on Wick Road, Homerton in Hackney, north London. Motorists were forced to slow down as the armed brawl spilled into the road. A white Ford Fiesta can be seen slowly driving by in one direction, then another car and a grey VW Gold passed going the opposite way. The harrowing 20-second video, taken by a member of the public on their mobile phone and uploaded to X (formerly Twitter), shows the first man back away, still brandishing his weapon. A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: 'We are aware of this video circulating online and are making enquiries. There are no known reports or injuries. 'If you were a witness or have any information which may help, you are urged to call police on 101 with ref 1548/05JAN25 or message via X @MetCC. To remain anonymous, please contact the independent charity Crimestoppers.' A shocking video shows two sword-wielding men having a machete fight in the middle of a London street on Friday night The harrowing 20-second video was taken by a member of the public on their mobile phone and uploaded to X (formerly Twitter) The terrifying scene took place on Wick Road in Hackney, north London This is just the latest brutal incident in London's knife crime horror show. Just a few months ago in October, a similarly chilling video showed two men having a machete fight in broad daylight in the middle of the High Street in East Ham, east London. Knife crime is on the rise in London, with 15,016 offences recorded in 2023/24, up from 12,786 the year before, a 17.4% rise. It is the highest number of offences since 2019/2020, after which there was a significant drop during the Covid pandemic, followed by a steady annual increase. According to the Crime in England and Wales 2024 report, around 30% of knife-enabled crime was recorded by the Metropolitan Police Service. Sadiq Khan, previously MP for Tooting in south London, became the Mayor of London in May 2016, followed by re-elections in 2021 and 2024. As Mayor, he is responsible for policing, but during his time in City Hall, London has been dubbed the 'knife crime capital' and the Met Police has been forced into special measures. Sir Sadiq was accused of 'losing control' on crime in the city, with a reported 38% increase in knife offences since he took office. The Labour politician received a knighthood in this year's New Year Honours list, sparking knife crime campaigners to argue it is 'an insult' to victims' families. Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan has been criticised for failing to to deal with London's knife crime epidemic The fight in Hackney is just the latest knife crime incident of thousands that take place each year Suzanne Hedges, whose son was stabbed to death by a teenager in 2016, told the Daily Telegraph: 'It's insulting, degrading and disrespectful to families that have lost someone to knife crime.' Courtney Barrett, of the Binning Knives Saves Lives group, added: 'The knighthood is an insult, and I speak for 20 families of murder victims who I work closely with.' Mr Philp, MP for Croydon South in the capital, had previously said: 'Under Sadiq Khan Londoners have faced a 61% increase in knife crime, a housing crisis and a 70% increase in council tax. 'They will rightly be furious his track record of failure is being rewarded.' Matthew Goodwin-Freeman, a Conservative councillor in Harrow, set up a Change.org petition which described a city which 'now stands divided thanks to Khan's polarizing politics'. It reads: 'London's crime rate has seen a marked increase during his tenure with knife crime reaching record heights in recent years. 'Despite being in a position to enact change, Khan continues to ignore these grave issues, instead placing blame elsewhere rather than taking decisive action himself.' If you were a witness the incident or have any information which may help, you are urged to call police on 101 with ref 1548/05JAN25 or message via X @MetCC. To remain anonymous, please contact the independent charity Crimestoppers. An incredible Anglo-Saxon sword unearthed in a field in Kent has been revealed for the first time on BBC programme Digging for Britain. Described as 'one of the most extraordinary objects' ever seen on the long-running show, the weapon was found in a grave at the site of an early medieval cemetery near Canterbury. Boasting a gilded silver hilt with intricate patterns, the exceptionally well-preserved weapon was recovered still in its scabbard in what experts believe is the grave of a man. Archaeologist Dr Andrew Richardson says on Digging for Britain, which airs tomorrow night: 'It is certainly a very high-status object, whoever was carrying this, was buried with this, was somebody really important.' Attached to the sixth century sword's hilt is a ring that is believed to symbolise an oath between its owner and a king or a lord, or even a god. Conservator Dana Goodburn-Brown, who examined the sword under a microscope, discovered that the inside of the sword's scabbard is lined with beaver fur. Also found in the grave, one of as many as 200 at the site, was a gold pendant known as a bracteate. An incredible Anglo-Saxon sword unearthed in a field in Kent has been revealed for the first time on BBC programme Digging for Britain. It has been described as 'one of the most extraordinary objects' ever seen on the long-running show Boasting a gilded silver hilt with intricate patterns, the exceptionally well-preserved weapon was recovered still in its scabbard in what experts believe is the grave of a man It boasts a serpent pattern associated with Scandinavian or Anglo-Saxon paganism and could be paying homage to the cult of pagan god Odin, Dr Richardson believes. Who were the Anglo-Saxons? The Anglo-Saxons were a people who inhabited Britain from 5th century AD. They were made up of Germanic tribes who emigrated from continental Europe, as well as indigenous Britons who adopted their cultural practices. The Anglo-Saxons were fierce warriors, and tribes often battled one another for territory. They ruled over Britain from 500 years until 1066 when they were conquered by the Normans. Advertisement The earliest grave is that of a woman and dates back to the late fifth century, so more than 1,500 years. At the time, Kent was an independent kingdom and had been so since the end of Roman rule in Britain in 410AD. The woman was buried with objects including glass beads and extraordinary wrist clasps. They are described as 'really quite special' by lead archaeologist Professor Duncan Sayer, the director of the University of Central Lancashire's Research Institute For Materials and Investigative Sciences. 'I've never seen another example of this in the UK at all,' he says. He adds: 'They are unique to the site. Almost certainly Scandinavian in character.' Also found at the site are a series stone beads, buckles and the remains of a wooden bucket. One buckle points to a connection to France. The discoveries are set to undergo a process of conservation before eventually going to the Folkestone Museum. So far, 12 burials have been excavated. It will take years to explore what are believed to be 200 graves in total. Also found in the grave, one of as many as 200 at the site, was a gold pendant known as a bracteate So far, 12 burials have been excavated. It will take years to explore what are believed to be 200 graves in total A bird's eye view shows experts excavating two graves at the extraordinary site The remains of a skull and weapon are seen in one of the graves at the site in Kent Digging for Britain is presented by historian Professor Alice Roberts After the end of the Romans' occupation of Britain, which lasted for nearly 500 years, England was split into several Anglo-Saxon kingdoms. Along with Kent, the kingdoms included Mercia, Northumbria, East Anglia, and Wessex. The kingdoms eventually united to fight against Viking invaders. The first king of a united England was Athelstan, who reigned from 924 until his death in 939. Digging for Britain airs tomorrow and on Wednesday on BBC 2 at 8pm. Have YOUR family or friends been lured in by drugs gangs? Email aidan.radnedge.mol@mailonline.co.uk Teenage girls and young women are being groomed by criminal 'county lines' drug gangs with offers to pay for lip filler and Botox, an expert has warned. Vulnerable youths are increasingly being targeted by criminal enterprises with offers in exchange for helping transfer not only drugs but also guns, campaigners say. And young women are proving especially prized, since they are seen as less likely to be targeted by police as their male counterparts, it has been suggested. Jade Hibbert, from the educational charity the St Giles Trust, has raised the alert about the rising dangers being faced by girls and young women. Her concerns come as the government faces increasing pressure over grooming gangs exploiting young girls for rape and sexual abuse. Elon Musk, owner of social media platform X and the world's richest person, has been condemning Labour after it emerged ministers had blocked calls for a new national inquiry into grooming gangs following a request by Oldham Council. The parallel threat of county lines gangs abusing young women has now been raised by the St Giles Trust among other children's charities. And the use of beauty treatments as a lure for girls and young women is causing heightening fears among charity workers. Among county lines cases before the courts in recent years, drug dealer Peter Kelly's fiancee Chloe Wishart (pictured), then 25, was spared jail in March 2022 at Bolton Crown Court Also given a suspended sentence at Bolton Crown Court, in May 2023, was 22-year-old 'gangster's moll' Georgia Burns , who was involved in a county lines drugs racket in which three 16-year old-schoolboys were used as 'slaves' Mother-of-one Georgia Leigh, 23, became an 'intercity' courier for a county lines drugs gang by posing as a rail commuter heading to work during the UK's Covid-19 pandemic lockdown Vulnerable young women and girls are increasingly being targeted by county lines drugs gangs, experts say - police are pictured raiding a home in Liverpool in December 2021 These bags of cash belonging to a county lines drug gang were seized by Derbyshire Police County lines is the term used to describe drug dealing where mobile phones are used to supply drugs and often using children as runners. The gangs, which are linked to increasing violence in provincial towns and shire counties, recruit youngsters to transport drugs from cities to the provinces. The National Police Chiefs' Council estimates there are between 5,500 and 6,500 county lines networks across the UK. And dealers running the operations have often made a point of pinpointing vulnerable children and young people to act as distributors. St Giles, which operates across the UK, told of girls being offered lip fillers and beauty products in exchange for transporting drugs - as well as young mothers being persuaded to carry narcotics and firearms inside prams to swerve detection. Campaigners called the current county lines drug dealing climate a 'safeguarding pandemic' as they warned more youngsters were becoming susceptible. Ms Hibbert, regional development manager at St Giles, cautioned how gang ringleaders were turning increasingly sophisticated in their recruitment tactics. She told the Independent: 'We have seen a massive shift across the Midlands of more and more female children being exploited - what they're being manipulated with is Botox, fake eyelashes and fillers. 'It used to be designer handbags or clothes but what were seeing is more perpetrators paying for treatments.' The St Giles Trust has now opened a female-only service in Wolverhampton and works in every hospital A&E department across the West Midlands, offering mentors to each child referred to them for support. Charities have warned of the so-called 'boyfriend model', by which dealers' female partners are taken advantage of as a cover less likely to attract police attention. This can involve their homes being 'cuckooed' - that is, taken over and used as drug dealing bases. As many as 60,000 girls across England are vulnerable to violence in a gang context, according to a recent report by the Commission on Young Lives and Manchester Metropolitan University. And an NPCC report last March said: 'It is possible that gender biases, including unconscious bias, mean that they are less likely to be interacted with by the police and therefore at greater risk, as there may be less intervention.' Johnny Bolderson, from the non-profit social mission organisation Catch22, said: 'Its not just women and girls gangs have been targeting. 'We've seen a slight focus on targeting LGBT+ youngsters, weve had three recent referrals. Its the same as stopping a woman and girl on the train - the confidence to stop and search them just isnt there. 'It's just a natural progression. These gangs want to avoid detection so they go for a cohort that is less likely to be stopped.' Among county lines cases which have come before the courts in recent years, drug dealer Peter Kelly's fiancee Chloe Wishart, then 25, was spared jail in March 2022 at Bolton Crown Court. She was sentenced to two years in prison, suspended for two years, after pleading guilty to being concerned in the supply of cocaine and money laundering. The court heard Wishart had concealed rocks of crack cocaine about her person before travelling 350 miles with Kelly, 25, to deal the items to addicts on the street. Also given a suspended sentence at Bolton Crown Court, in May 2023, was 22-year-old 'gangster's moll' Georgia Burns, who was involved in a county lines drugs racket in which three 16-year old-schoolboys were used as 'slaves'. Georgia Burns, 22, repeatedly drove her drug-dealing boyfriend Jamie Upton, 25, 100 miles from Manchester to Hull, where one of the exploited youngsters was forced to live in a squalid flat. Burns, from Failsworth, Greater Manchester, admitted being concerned in the supply of crack and heroin between March 2020 and March 2021 and was sentenced to two years jail suspended for two years and told to complete 200 hours unpaid work. Meanwhile, mother-of-one Georgia Leigh, 23, became an 'intercity' courier for a county lines drugs gang by posing as a rail commuter heading to work during the UK Covid-19 pandemic lockdown. Leigh, from Chadderton near Oldham, repeatedly made 142 mile round trips by train up to twice a day after mobsters she was working for struck a deal for heroin and cocaine to be smuggled from Manchester to York. She was jailed for four years at Minshull Street Crown Court, Manchester, in October 2021 after admitting conspiracy to supply heroin and cocaine and conveying prohibited articles into a prison. Police last year smashed one of Britain's biggest county lines drugs gangs, based in the West Midlands, which made 1.2million a year. A dozen male gangsters from Birmingham and Solihull were last month handed sentences totalling more than 100 years for running the organised crime group, which sold vast amounts of deadly heroin and crack cocaine. Brothers Wesley Cornett, 17, left, and Andruw Cornett, 19, went missing in Thermalito Afterbay near Oroville (Butte County) in December. Searchers discovered Andruws body last week, and Wesleys body was reportedly found Sunday. Butte County Sheriffs Office The body of a second teenager who went missing during a duck-hunting trip in Northern California last month reportedly has been found, five days after authorities recovered the body of his older brother. Butte County authorities carried out an extensive search for Andruw Cornett, 19, and Wesley Cornett, 17, of Yuba County, after the brothers went missing Dec. 14. The pair were last seen hunting ducks in the area. Authorities confirmed Dec. 31 they had found Andruw Cornett in the northern section of Thermalito Afterbay, a large reservoir near Oroville. Advertisement Article continues below this ad On Sunday, multiple news outlets reported that officials in Butte County had located the body of brother Wesley, though officials were awaiting DNA analysis to confirm his identity. Butte County Sheriffs Office spokesperson Megan McMann told the Sacramento Bee that a person spotted the body while walking about 4 miles west of Oroville and called authorities at 9:12 a.m. The teens plunged into the Butte County waterway while duck hunting. The brothers disappeared the morning of Dec. 14 after Wesley overturned his kayak around 8:30 a.m. Andruw tried to rescue his brother after contacting sheriffs dispatchers, who advised him not to enter the water. Both brothers became submerged, and neither was wearing a life jacket. The search involved more than 300 personnel from 21 agencies. The 'sudden' death of The Vivienne is not being treated as suspicious, police have confirmed - as tributes pour in for the 'sweetest soul' who shot to fame on RuPaul's Drag Race. The star, whose real name was James Lee Williams, tragically died last week aged 32 following a glittering career that launched to new heights when they won the inaugural season of RuPaul's Drag Race UK in 2019. The Vivienne's tragic death was confirmed on Sunday by her publicist, who paid tribute to the 'incredibly loved star'. And in an update today, police revealed that they found 'no suspicious circumstances'. Cheshire Police said officers were called to an address in Chorlton-by-Backford at 12.22pm on Sunday following reports of a sudden death. A spokesman for the force said: 'Police attended, investigated the circumstances of the death of the 32-year-old man and concluded there were no suspicious circumstances. A file will be prepared for the coroner.' Confirming the tragic death on Instagram yesterday, The Vivienne's publicist Simon Jones wrote: 'It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams - The Vivienne, has passed this weekend. 'James was an incredibly loved, warmhearted and amazing person. Their family are heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother and uncle. The Vivienne pictured in the promo for 2023's Dancing on Ice in which they came second Pictured: The Vivienne's post on Instagram announcing their return to The Wizard of Oz tour James Lee Williams, tragically died last week aged 32 following a glittering career that launched to new heights when they won the inaugural season of RuPaul's Drag Race UK Confirming the news on Instagram, Simon Jones PR wrote: 'It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams - The Vivienne, has passed this weekend 'They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career. We will not be releasing any further details. 'We please ask that James's family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.' He continued: 'These are words I never ever wanted to write. Viv was a close friend, a client and someone I loved very much. 'From the moment I met them in 2019 I knew we could create magic together and I became their manager. Their talent was immense and the light they brought to every room was astonishing. No one has ever made me laugh as much in my life as Viv did. Their comic genius and quick wit was like no other. 'I'm so proud and lucky that Viv was such a big part of my life everyday for the last five years. It's tragic that their career was only just beginning. In musical theatre Viv had found a space and career they loved, excelled and thrived in. 'I am heartbroken and devastated at this news. RIP my wonderful friend. You left us way too soon.' Williams, who came second on the 2023 series of Dancing on Ice, recently performed as the Wicked Witch of the West in a UK and Irelands tour of The Wizard of Oz musical and reprised their role in the West End at the Gillian Lynne Theatre last year. Wicked star Ariana Grande paid a heartfelt tribute ahead of attending the 2025 Golden Globes. The actress and singer took to social media to share a picture of The Vivienne along with three hearts and an infinity emoji. Ahead of attending the 2025 Golden Globes, Wicked actress Ariana, 31, took to social media to share a picture of The Vivienne along with three hearts and an infinity emoji The Vivienne (James Lee Williams) and RuPaul (RuPaul Andre Charles) pictured together at RuPaul DragCon RuPaul's Drag Race UK star The Vivienne pictured in May 2022 Colin Grafton and The Vivienne (right) during a photo call for Dancing On Ice 2023 Pictured: The Vivienne attending the British Soap Awards in 2023 at The Lowry Theatre in Salford Born in Colwyn Bay, Wales, in April 1992, Williams grew up watching Lily Savage on TV, citing that as their first exposure to drag. Describing Wales as a 'big-fish-in-a-small-pond situation', the star moved to Liverpool aged 16 to pursue a career as a makeup artist, first working on the beauty counter in Debenhams. It was there that they earned their nickname The Vivienne for dressing entirely in Vivienne Westwood, developing their budding passion for drag while going out with friends in the evenings. In 2019, the budding star auditioned for and went on to win the first series of 'RuPaul's Drag Race UK'. Leaping from one career triumph to the next, Williams then appeared on the seventh season of 'RuPaul's Drag Race: All Stars' as The Vivienne, before becoming a finalist in 'Dancing on Ice' in 2023, where viewers branded them a 'star'. But amid their rise to fame, Williams also battled with drug addiction - something they openly spoke about in the past. Williams previously said: 'It was party drugs - but I couldn't leave the drugs at the party.' After acknowledging they needed to seek help, Williams underwent treatment at The Armistead Centre in Liverpool. Just days before their death last week, Williams shared a heart-wrenching social media post. The drag artist took to Instagram on Thursday to urge fans to donate to LGBTQ+ and HIV charity SAHIR. Encouraging others to give 1 a month, they wrote: 'Join me in giving back this year, everything I do charitable wise is usually for @sahirhouse house, Liverpools oldest LGBT+ charity!!! 'The work they do is incredible, thank you. 1 a month you won't miss it.' The star's untimely death has triggered an outpouring of grief, with fans branding them the 'sweetest soul'. Dancing on Ice judge Oti Mabuse said: 'Some news hits you harder than others and stops you in your tracks. I absolutely loved The Viv. A beautiful human being, funny, kind, a trailblazer, creative and so warm.' RuPaul's Drag Race judge Michelle Visage paid tribute to Williams, writing that their death was 'heartbreaking'. Taking to Instagram to post photographs of them both together, Visage wrote: 'I don't know how to say how I feel. My darling we go back to when I started coming over here to the UK. 'You were always there, always laughing, always giving, always on point. Your laughter, your wit, your talent, your drag. 'I loved all of it but I loved your friendship most of all. You were a beacon to so many. 'Seeing you make your West End debut was amazing for me to witness your dream come true right in front of my eyes, I'm the lucky one to have known you and to have laughed together with you so many times. 'I love you my darling. You will be so missed my lovely. May your light shine fiercely, forever. RIP MY ANGEL fly high.' The Vivienne was due to be back on tour next month performing in The Chitty Chitty Bang Bang musical in the role of the Childcatcher. Paying tribute to The Vivienne on social media, the show wrote: 'We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of The Vivienne. 'Her talent, humor, and dedication to the art of drag was an inspiration. 'She will be dearly missed, but her legacy will live on as a beacon of creativity and authenticity she embodied what it means to be a true champion. 'Our hearts go out to her family and fans during this difficult time.' Meanwhile The Vivienne's ex-husband David Luford shared his own emotional tribute. They were together for seven years before splitting in 2023. In a lengthy statement he wrote: 'My heart literally sank when I got the call. Never in a million years did I ever think I'd ever be writing anything like this about James Lee Williams. And ahead of attending the 2025 Golden Globes, Wicked actress Ariana, 31, took to social media to share a picture of The Vivienne along with three hearts and an infinity emoji The Vivienne channelled Elphaba as they attended Ariana's London Wicked film premiere alongside friend Tia Kofi The Vivienne starred as the misunderstood yet strong and compassionate Wicked Witch of the West in the revival of The Wizard of Oz musical Elsewhere RuPaul's Drag Race UK judge Michelle Visage j (L) paid tributes to The Vivienne (R) following the sad news Sharing photos of herself alongside the Vivienne, real name James Lee Williams, Michelle penned a heartfelt tribute to 'her angel' She wrote: 'Heartbreaking I don't know how to say how I feel. My darling @thevivienne we go back to when I started coming over here to the UK. You were always there, always laughing, always giving, always on point' Michelle shared a string of throwback snaps of the pair The news was announced in a statement by The Vivienne's representatives Simon Jones PR on Instagram, to which Little Mix's Perrie Edwards replied with a string of broken heart emojis Meanwhile Pussycat Doll star Ashley Roberts captioned a snap of herself and The Vivienne in happier times writing: 'The world lost an angel, rest in peace' Rylan wrote: 'Just seen the news that The Vivienne has passed away. Such a talented performer and such a sad loss. Rest in Peace gorgeous x' Meanwhile The Vivienne's ex husband David Ludford shared his own emotional tribute, they were together for seven years before splitting in 2023 In a lengthy statement he wrote: 'My heart literally sank when I got the call. Never in a million years did I ever think I'd ever be writing anything like this about James Lee Williams. David shared snaps of himself and The Vivienne throughout their relationship X Factor and Union J star Jaymi Hensley (L) shared his own tribute and asked late fiance Olly Marmon (C) to welcome their pal into heaven in a heartbreaking post. Oliver, 33, died after plummeting 30ft from the third floor of a three-star Hind Hotel in Wellingborough, Northampton, on August 12, just weeks ahead of his wedding to Jaymi Denise Van Outen was left heartbroken Fellow drag artist and Strictly star Tayce (R) shared a stunning snap of themsleves with The Vivienne and wrote: 'Rest in peace angel' Dancing on Ice's Oti Mabuse, who judged The Vivienne as a contestant during the 2023, shared her own heartfelt tribute RuPaul's Drag Race said in a statement: 'We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of The Vivienne. Her talent, humour, and dedication to the art of drag was an inspiration'. 'This man changed my life so much from the day we first met in August 2017 in Gran Canaria!! We literally clicked straight away and we knew we was going to be together for along time!! He made me feel love and shown me what it was really like to love someone. 'I'm so happy to say I not only met you but we was together, we was husbands and you was the biggest part of my life [sic] for such a long time. 6 years is such a long time to spend 24/7 with. You will always have a place in my heart. Going to miss you more than people will ever know. Sleep tight angel.' X Factor and Union J star Jaymi Hensley shared his own tribute and asked late fiance Olly Marmon to welcome their pal into heaven in a heartbreaking post. Oliver, 33, died after plummeting 30ft from the third floor of a three-star Hind Hotel in Wellingborough, Northampton, on August 12, just weeks ahead of his wedding to Jaymi. The singer wrote: 'I actually can't believe this! When we took this photo little did we know there would only be three of us left. my darling @ollymarmon please welcome our beautiful James @thevivienne_ into heaven!' ' Look after each other , this is too much for my heart to handle! The scales of better people being up there then here has now well and truly changed'. The Vivienne's Dancing On Ice co-star Claire Sweeney wrote: 'Devastating news RIP The Vivienne, beautiful inside and out'. Fellow Dancing on Ice star Adele Roberts also paid her respects: 'Absolutely heartbroken. Thinking of The Vivienne's family, friends and loved one. Gone far too soon. Rest in paradise Queen'. Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies said: 'The Vivienne, James Lee Williams (1992-2025). We met a couple of times and chatted online, he was absolutely delightful'. 'I was expecting lots of drag queen banter and bitching, but he was far more than that, kinder and more thoughtful and glittering with shrewd observations. And what a talent! On the cusp of graduating to West End stardom. What a world. Night, darling.' Fiona Campbell, BBC controller of youth audience, said the news was 'deeply sad', adding that the broadcaster was 'fiercely proud of The Vivienne's achievements'. A London-based cousin of Azerbaijan's leader has been arrested during a raid on a party in Greece, where she was performing as a DJ and was allegedly found with a hoard of drugs and cash. Izzat Javadova, who a police source claimed organised the party, was reportedly 'found in a bedroom' with 45 packages of cocaine, ecstasy and crystal meth, and a safe containing over 43,000 euros ($45,000). The 44-year-old, who is known as DJ Mikaela Jav, told Greek TV station ERT that she 'did not organise the party' and 'did not send online invitations,' and also insisted that police 'did not find drugs on me.' She described the event as a 'a tekno Berlin kinky party dedicated to love and music' and claimed the accusations were 'an attack on LGBTQ people' which aimed to portray partygoers as drug users. The British-Azeri DJ was among 13 people arrested at the luxury villa in the town of Kalyvia, around 20 miles south of Athens on December 30, and has since been detained on charges of aggravated drug trafficking. Three off-duty police officers providing security for the event, who were also arrested, have also been arrested but have not so far been charged as the investigation is ongoing, according to reports. Javadova, who has a British passport, is the cousin of President Ilham Aliyev, the autocratic ruler of major oil and gas producer Azerbaijan. The millionaire DJ's late father Jalal was the brother of Aliyev's father and presidential predecessor Heydar, as well as an oligarch and MP in the country. Izzat Javadova was performing as a DJ and was allegedly found with a hoard of drugs and cash at the party The 44-year-old, who is known as DJ Mikaela Jav, denied organising the party Greek police released a video of the raid on the upmarket villa which showed powder on tables Greece's Hellenic Police shared footage of packets of pills and DJ decks at the party The British-Azeri DJ was among 13 people arrested at the luxury villa in the town of Kalyvia, around 20 miles south of Athens on December 30 Greek police released a video of the raid on the upmarket villa which showed packets of pills and powder on tables, as well as stacks of euros and DJ decks. The owner of the luxury villa claimed that Javadova provided the 1,000 security deposit for the property and that it suffered significant damage, The Times reports. Testimony from people who attended the event suggested it was a lavish, drug-fuelled party, with invitations circulated through social media and personal connections. Several defendants have reportedly admitted possessing drugs for personal use, but have denied drug trafficking. Known for her party lifestyle, Javadova says on her professional profile that she moved to the UK at a young age and went on to set up a promotions firm called Love The Underground Records. She lives in a 4 million flat in Whitehall and is reported to own a 5 million townhouse overlooking the river in Richmond-upon-Thames. The socialite has also been described her as a regular on Balearic party island Ibiza, where she is understood to own a beachside villa. She and her husband Suleyman Javadov attracted scandal after being accused of benefitting from a network of 20 shell companies largely based offshore in a 2.1 billion money-laundering scheme nicknamed the 'Azerbaijani laundromat'. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, whose father Heydar was the brother of Javadova Javadova says on her professional profile that she moved to the UK at a young age and went on to set up a promotions firm called Love The Underground Records Pictured: Suleyman Javadov (left) sitting next to Ilham Aliyev, the president of Azerbaijan The millionaire DJ and her husband Suleyman Javadov were previously ordered to forfeit 4million after legal action by the National Crime Agency in a money laundering probe The Javadovs had argued their money came from a legitimate property empire and investments in 'the leading vodka, cognac and champagne factory in Azerbaijan'. They had argued for nearly two years to fight the case in secrecy, with lawyers arguing that revealing their names would damage their reputations. Their solicitors said at the time: 'Our clients have legitimate business dealings and trusted that their money transfers were dealt with by the banks in accordance with the law.' The pair made a deal in 2021 to surrender 4 million deemed to be the illegal proceeds of an Azerbaijani money laundering scheme. The agreement to hand over the money did not amount to an admission or finding of liability or wrongdoing against the couple. The NCA investigation involved cooperation from law enforcement partners in a number of countries including Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Latvia and Spain. Miss Alabama cheerleader Abbie Stockard has been crowned winner of Miss America 2025, beating 10 other finalists to the $50,000 tuition scholarship prize. The 97th annual pageant took place over the weekend at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando, concluding with 2024 winner Madison Marsh crowning Stockard after a series of hard-fought events. The competition was sadly overshadowed by the decision to stream on YouTube and PageantVision.com, having previously been shown on NBC, ABC and Peacock. Viewers could watch preliminary competitions with a $99.99 week-long streaming pass or by buying the episodes individually. The final was streamed for free, and the YouTube stream ran a day after the program aired. Fans expressed their fury at the move online, going so far as to say the show had been 'destroyed'. One aggrieved viewer took to social media to say: 'Looked like it had been filmed with an iPhone. Just awful production.' Another bashed the decision to move online, writing: 'Low end production!! Miss America used to be a nationally televised, prestigious event!!' Others rallied against what they said was 'awkward' and 'cringeworthy' presenting, as a major gaffe in the presentation saw calls for an 'editor'. Abbie Stockard, from Alabama, is crowned Miss America 2025 in Orlando on Sunday As Stockard celebrated her historic win, viewers were sadly pre-occupied with what they deemed the waning production value of the show itself Stockard is a member of the Tiger Paws Dance Team, a nationally ranked competition team Jade McEwen wrote on Facebook: 'Growing up we always watched on live television. Please consider bringing it back.' Holly Bearden added: 'Almost everyone has Netflix..might be worth looking into televising it live with them next year.' Stockard, an Auburn University nursing student and cheerleader, was crowned on Sunday, concluding an intense campaign since being named Miss Alabama last June. She overcame hopefuls from all US states, plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico, to take home the grand prize last night. Fifty-two competitors had been whittled down to just 11 based on the results of preliminary events earlier in the week. The finalists had one last opportunity to impress the judges with choreographed dance routines, as well as various other rounds and interview segments on Sunday. Stockard danced to Lauren Daigle's 2018 hit 'You Say'. Interviews saw finalists debate randomly assigned topics including censorship, housing and unemployment. The censorship segment was briefly overshadowed by an apparent typo displayed on screens surrounding the stage. Twitter/X user Tom Jackson shared a photo of the offending mistake, writing 'Miss America needs editors.' Quizzed on unemployment, Stockard spoke about the labor force participation of people in the 25-54-year-old age bracket since Covid. She urged fresh ways to encourage people into work, alluding to vocational training in 'new skills' to 'learn to grow in our current workforce and industries we have today'. Madison Marsh crowns an emotional Abbie Stockard, Miss Alabama 2024, as Miss America 2025 at Walt Disney Theatre in Orlando, on January 5 'This is insane,' Stockard said after finally being crowned champion. 'I don't know what I did to deserve this.' Stockard revealed that she hopes to earn an advanced degree and specialize in pediatrics, helping children and young people. While studying to become a nurse, Stockard is also a member of the Tiger Paws Dance Team, a nationally ranked competition team. 'This is insane,' she said after finally being crowned champion. 'I don't know what I did to deserve this.' Stockard, 22, said that she was inspired by her mom, who juggled several jobs, and her friend, who has cystic fibrosis, and revealed her dream of earning a PhD in anesthesia and specializing in pediatrics. Governor Kay Ivey took to social media to congratulate the young star. 'Our very own Miss Alabama, Abbie Stockard, has won the title of Miss America!' she wrote. 'I've had the pleasure of meeting Abbie, and I know firsthand what an outstanding young woman she is. She is incredibly deserving of this honor. Congratulations, Abbie! #alpolitics But as Stockard celebrated her historic win, viewers were sadly pre-occupied with what they deemed the waning production value of the show itself. 'The constant decline of Miss America over years [sic] should be studied because what are they doing to this?' wrote Twitter/X user Samantha Magalski. Our very own Miss Alabama, Abbie Stockard, has won the title of Miss America! Ive had the pleasure of meeting Abbie, and I know firsthand what an outstanding young woman she is. She is incredibly deserving of this honor. Congratulations, Abbie! #alpolitics pic.twitter.com/rfMRVesnIP Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) January 6, 2025 Stockard revealed that she hopes to earn an advanced degree and specialize in pediatrics, helping children and young people 'Miss America used to be a prime TV event,' one user chimed in. 'Now I have to search through YouTube to find it.' 'Congrats Miss Alabama for winning Miss America,' another user said. 'But I cannot keep repeating how this organization is broken and needs an overhaul. 'The significant reduction in production quality does a disservice to these great women.' Others criticized the organization. User Andy Eagle wrote: 'Who hired these emcees at Miss America 2025?!? 'It's painfully awkward watching them.' Carter Christensen added: 'The Miss America hosts this year are absolutely cringeworthy, and it's incredibly uncomfortable to watch. The production quality too, my God.' MPs are set to debate a petition demanding a fresh general election after it was signed by more than three million people. The petition, which accuses Labour of having 'gone back on the promises' the party made before July's election, will be debated in Westminster Hall this afternoon. From 4.30pm, MPs will gather in the secondary debating chamber to discuss the e-petition that attracted huge support. Michael Westwood, who owns three pubs in the Black Country, set up the online petition on Parliament's website on 20 November. It quickly went viral and was promoted on social media by Elon Musk, thought to be the world's richest man, who is an ally of US President-elect Donald Trump. The billionaire businessman shared the petition on X, the social media site he owns, claiming 'the people of Britain have had enough of a tyrannical police state'. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch used Prime Minister's Questions in late November to taunt Sir Keir Starmer over the millions of people who were asking him 'to go'. But the PM shot back that there was a 'massive petition on 4 July in this country' that saw millions of voters support Labour at the ballot box. The e-petition, which accuses Labour of having 'gone back on the promises' the party made before July's election, will be debated in Westminster Hall this afternoon Sir Keir Starmer, pictured with his wife Victoria, entered Downing Street on 5 July but has suffered a turbulent first six months in No10 Michael Westwood, who set up the petition, predicted 'tough times' ahead following Chancellor Rachel Reeves' Budget in October Mr Westwood voted for the Conservatives at last summer's general election and predicted 'tough times' ahead following Labour's Budget in October. Chancellor Rachel Reeves used her first fiscal package to hike national insurance for employers, which sparked a huge backlash among businesses. In their manifesto ahead of July's general election, Labour vowed to 'not increase taxes on working people' - including national insurance, income tax or VAT. Explaining why he set up the petition, Mr Westwood told the BBC: 'The people that are currently in charge of the country, in my opinion, lied to get there.' He added: 'To have my opinion and my thoughts put out there and to find out actually, quite a lot of people agree, I think it's fantastic. It just shows that you're not on your own.' Previously asked about the petition, Sir Keir ruled out calling another general election but said he was 'not surprised' some people who did not support Labour in July might want a second poll. The PM told ITV: 'Look, I remind myself that very many people didn't vote Labour at the last election. 'I'm not surprised that many of them want a re-run. That isn't how our system works. There will be plenty of people who didn't want us in in the first place. 'So, what my focus is on is the decisions that I have to make every day.' In its official response to the petition, the Government said: 'This Government was elected on a mandate of change at the July 2024 general election. 'Our full focus is on fixing the foundations, rebuilding Britain, and restoring public confidence in government.' Defence experts are working on radical solutions to prevent offshore wind farms blocking radar systems amid fears they could leave the UK vulnerable to missile attacks. Fears have been raised that plans to massively increase the number of turbines in the seas around Britain could leave the Islands open to a surprise attack. Scientists are now working on measures to lessen the impact of the proposed quadrupling of offshore wind power by 2030. They include making turbines from stealth materials and equipping masts with tech to spot missiles themselves and open up a blind spot. It comes amid concerns that the UK is already vulnerable to missile attack due to a lack of radar and counter-missile defences. In November Sweden rejected applications to build 13 offshore wind farms off its east coast in the Baltic Sea - between the Scandinavian state and Russia - due to defence concerns. Defence Minister Pal Jonson told a press conference that wind farms could halve the time Sweden had to react to a missile attack to just one minute. Sweden's capital is just 311 miles (500km) from the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad. BAE Systems analyst Philip Clark, who works at the Cowes radar research centre, told the Times: 'The RAF stops wind farm developments in places like the North Sea, because they'll say, ''If somebody launches an attack against us that comes from behind the wind farm, we won't be able to see it''.' Fears have been raised that plans to massively increase the number of turbines in the seas around Britain could leave the Islands open to a surprise attack. In November Sweden rejected applications to build 13 offshore wind farms off its east coast. Defence Minister Pal Jonson said they could halve the time Sweden had to react to a missile attack to just one minute. Claiming that the Ukraine war was becoming a 'global' conflict, Russian president Vladimir Putin in November said he was entitled to target the military facilities of countries that had supplied weapons to Kyiv. Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened to strike the UK with a new ballistic missile after using the weapon to hit a target in Ukraine in November. Downing Street condemned Mr Putin for further escalating the conflict by using a ballistic missile with a range of 'several thousand kilometres' against the city of Dnipro. Mr Putin suggested the missile could be used to hit Kyivs allies who have given Ukraine permission to use Western-supplied weapons to hit targets within Russia. The UK is believed to have allowed its Storm Shadow missiles to be used by Ukrainian forces within the Kursk region of Russia, while the US has given permission for its ATACMS weapons to be fired at targets in Mr Putins country. Mr Putin confirmed Russia has tested a new intermediate-range weapon, saying it came in response to Ukrainian strikes on the Russian territory with US and British missiles earlier this week. The UK has a strong air defence strategy, however there are fears the country lacks land-based systems to defend London or its nuclear plants. Britain's main form of air defence are the Royal Navy's six Type 45 destroyers, touted as the world's best air defence warship, and the British Army's advanced Sky Sabre missile system. On the ground, the UK is rapidly investing in laser defences, which can be used to shoot drones and, potentially, missiles out of the sky. But these are not yet in service. Labour MP Luke Akehurst told MailOnline: 'The war in Ukraine has shown the threat posed by attacks by missiles and drones. 'The UK lacks ground-based air defences against such attacks on targets here in Britain. 'Addressing this capability gap needs to be an urgent political, funding and industrial priority for Government.' A man has been charged with assisting Daniel Khalife after he escaped from HMP Wandsworth. Police have charged Imran Chowdhury, 25, from Chingford, east London with assisting the former soldier after he fled the prison in September 2023. Chowdhury was arrested by the Met in January 2024 and was charged in December via post with one count of assisting an escaped prisoner. He is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, 7 January. No further action was taken against a 25-year-old woman who was also arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender in February 2024, the force added. Khalife, 23, was found to have escaped the prison, triggering a nationwide manhunt, at court in November. He was eventually tracked down and arrested on a canal towpath just a few miles from the jail. Khalife, 23, was found to have escaped the prison, triggering a nationwide manhunt, at court in November Daniel Khalife is arrested by police officers on a London canal towpath, days after his escape from HMP Wandsworth Daniel Khalife is seen here after his arrest on a canal towpath on September 9 last year after being caught by police Born in Westminster, Khalife and his twin sister were raised singlehandedly by their mother Farnaz, 48, a nurse from Iran. Khalife had joined the Army at 16, but was left 'devastated' when he was told halfway through his training that his Iranian heritage would stop him getting the security clearance required to work in intelligence at 'the sharp end' of the military. He began passing official secrets to Iranian agents soon afterwards. By the age of 19, he had a NATO level of security clearance, which is the second highest level of security clearance enabling him to see secret material. After being charged over his actions and remanded in prison, Khalife escaped by tying himself to the underbelly of a food truck while working in the kitchen. In a blunder, prison officers let the lorry leave Wandsworth even after the alarm had been raised about a missing inmate. Khalife joined the Army at 16 but became frustrated after learning he could never work 'at the sharp end' of intelligence In a blunder, the lorry was allowed to leave HMP Wandsworth after an alarm had been raised that a prisoner was missing CCTV footage showed an officer waving at the unsuspecting driver as he left at 7.32am. Eleven minutes later when the lorry stopped at a dual carriageway less than a mile away, Khalife rolled out from underneath and slunk off. He was on the run for four days after using prison trousers to fasten himself to the vehicle and leave the site. It is unclear what role Chowdhury is accused of playing after Khalife's escape. Keir Starmer hit back at Elon Musk today in the increasingly bitter spat over his record on grooming gang cases. The PM mounted a robust defence as he took questions after laying out NHS waiting list plans this morning. Sir Keir said 'child sexual exploitation is utterly sickening' and victims had been 'let down' - but he insisted he had tackled the issues 'head on' as director of public prosecutions. The premier accused opposition politicians of 'amplifying what the far-right is saying' after falling to act 'for 14 long years'. He insisted he would fight the 'poison' from extremists, arguing that those who are 'spreading lies and misinformation.. are not interested in victims, they are interested in themselves'. Sir Keir did not mention Mr Musk by name and said he did not 'really have any comment' on the billionaire asking followers on his X social media site whether the US should 'liberate' Britain from its 'tyrannical government'. 'I think most people are more interested about the NHS... rather than what's happening on Twitter,' he said. Sir Keir said he was making a 'general point' and did not want to 'individualise' the row to Mr Musk. He suggested that until recently the Tories would have 'called out' attacks on Home Office minister Jess Phillips, saying a 'line had been crossed' and she had suffered threats. The Tesla and Space X mogul, a key ally of returning US President Donald Trump, has been launching a blizzard of attacks on Sir Keir over the festive period. Mr Musk has claimed the premier was 'complicit' in allowing the gangs' activities to continue unchecked. This morning he posted on his X social media site that Sir Keir should be in 'prison', and continued his torrent of criticism after the press conference. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is due to make a statement to MPs on child sexual exploitation this afternoon as the Commons returns from its Christmas break. Keir Starmer is hit back at Elon Musk today in the increasingly bitter spat over his record on grooming gang cases The tech billionaire, a key ally of returning US President Donald Trump, has been launching a blizzard of attacks on Sir Keir over the festive period Mr Musk posted on his X social media site this morning that Sir Keir should be 'in prison' and asked followers whether America should 'liberate' Britain from its 'tyrannical government' Speaking in Surrey, the PM said he had been responsible for authorising the first prosecution of an Asian grooming gang, and changed the 'whole approach' of the CPS. He stressed that his record in the role was 'not secret' and everything was a matter of public record. Sir Keir added: 'Jess Phillips does not need me or anybody else to speak on her behalf, but when the poison of the far-right leads to serious threats to Jess Phillips and others, then in my book, a line has been crossed. 'I enjoy the cut and thrust of politics, the robust debate that we must have, but that's got to be based on facts and truth, not on lies, not on those who are so desperate for attention that they're prepared to debase themselves and their country. 'So this Government will get on with the job of protecting victims, including child sexual abuse, mandatory reporting, accelerating the processes. But what I won't tolerate is this discussion, debate based on lies without calling it out. 'What I won't tolerate is politicians jumping on the bandwagon simply to get attention, when those politicians sat in government for 14 long years, tweeting, talking, but not doing anything about it. Now, so desperate for attention that they're amplifying what the far-right is saying.' Sir Keir also lashed out at people supporting jailed far-right activist Tommy Robinson, as Mr Musk has. 'Those who are cheerleading Tommy Robinson are not interested in justice. They're supporting a man who went to prison for nearly collapsing a grooming case, a gang grooming case,' the PM said. 'These are people who are trying to get some vicarious thrill from street violence that people like Tommy Robinson promote. 'Those attacking Jess Phillips, who I am proud to call a colleague and a friend, are not protecting victims. Jess Phillips has done a thousand times more than they've even dreamt about when it comes to protecting victims of sexual abuse throughout her entire career.' He went on: 'We've seen this playbook many times, whipping up of intimidation and threats of violence, hoping that the media will amplify it.' Health Secretary Wes Streeting urged Mr Musk to have a 'social media detox' - and said he would back the PM if he decided to boycott X. Health Secretary Mr Streeting told the BBC's World at One: 'I think he should probably have a new year's resolution for a social media detox. 'We are spending far too much time worrying about what someone in America has got to say about something they know little about here in the UK. 'What I do think is shameful is that, whereas we would have seen universal outcry across the political spectrum on this sort of rhetoric and this sort of attack on a good colleague like Jess Phillips instead we have seen a combination of silent indifference from the more decent Conservatives and, worse still, active complicity from other Conservatives.' Asked whether the Government should leave X, Mr Streeting said: 'We want to get our message across on our terms to the public where they are.' He added: 'So long as the Prime Minister, the leader of my party, is happy for us to continue posting on X I will continue to do so and the moment he takes a decision otherwise I would absolutely go along with that.' Sir Keir has faced questions in recent days over a 2009 decision by the Crown Prosecution Service to drop a major case against an alleged grooming gang in Rochdale. The chairwoman of a previous inquiry that uncovered wide-ranging failings in how institutions protected children has said she is not seeking a new probe - but urged ministers to implement recommendations from her final report more than two years ago. 'Our mission is not to call for new inquiries but to advocate for the full implementation of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse's recommendations. A Child Protection Authority is critical to this process,' said Professor Alexis Jay. Writing in yesterday's Mail on Sunday, Kemi Badenoch said an inquiry should 'identify the bodies that failed as well as the individuals who facilitated or ignored these crimes so they can be removed from their roles'. Nigel Farage also backed an inquiry and said it was fair for Mr Musk to question what role, if any, Sir Keir had in decisions not to pursue serious allegations in Rochdale in 2009. Supporters point out that as DPP Sir Keir brought in a national network of specialist prosecutors for child abuse and sexual exploitation to oversee convictions against grooming gangs and changed Crown Prosecution Service guidance to focus on the credibility of allegations rather than whether victims would make good witnesses. Shadow home secretary Chris Philp said it was 'disgraceful that Keir Starmer is smearing people who are concerned about rape gangs as jumping on a 'far right' bandwagon, rather than facing up to his own record on this and reconsidering his refusal as prime minister to hold a full national inquiry'. 'As Kemi Badenoch said yesterday, a new inquiry must go beyond previous inquiries and focus specifically on the institutional and political failings that enabled the systematic and barbaric attacks to take place,' he said. 'If Keir Starmer can't see why people across the UK are keen to have these questions answered and proper accountability for the victims of this heinous scandal, it just shows how out of touch he really is.' Mr Musk also posted on X, which he owns, suggesting that safeguarding minister Jess Phillips 'deserves to be in prison' for denying requests for the Home Office to lead a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham and called her a 'rape genocide apologist'. Nigel Farage has also had a falling out with Mr Musk, after speculation about a huge donation to Reform UK Mr Musk took aim at Ms Phillips after she wrote to Oldham council saying it must follow other towns such as Rotherham and Telford and commission its own inquiry into historical abuse of children. Labour is now facing calls for a new national inquiry from Reform UK and the Conservatives, the latter of which had refused a request for a public inquiry into events in Oldham while in government. Sir Keir's Government is against launching another nationwide probe and has said it is working to implement recommendations from Professor Jay's inquiry, which concluded in 2022. That inquiry looked into abuse by organised groups following multiple convictions of sexual offences against children across the UK between 2010-2014, including in Rotherham, Cornwall, Derbyshire, Rochdale and Bristol. Protesters say there was 'no justification' for shooting the dog, named Ghost Police killed the dog after receiving a 999 call claiming a woman had been bitten Dozens of people swarmed a Sheffield police station on Saturday to protest the fatal shooting of an XL Bully dog. Around 30 demonstrators gathered outside Snig Hill Police Station to demand 'justice' for the dog, named Ghost. The XL Bully was killed in Hillsborough on December 7 after South Yorkshire Police said it received a 999 call claiming that a woman had been bitten. Officers said at the time that, although the woman 'was not injured', a decision was made to 'humanely dispatch the dog at the scene' due to the 'significant risk posed'. However, the incident has been widely condemned by the Hillsborough community - with supporters saying there was 'no justification' for Ghost's death. Meanwhile, friends and family of Ghost's owners said they have seen 'no evidence' from police that anyone was bitten - and claim the dog was a gentle animal with no history of aggression. Protesters carried signs which insisted upon 'justice for Ghost' and claimed: 'It's not the truth until you show the proof.' They also called for an end to the force using firearms officers to shoot dogs. Dozens of people gathered outside Snig Hill Police Station, Sheffield, on Saturday to protest the fatal shooting of an XL Bully dog called Ghost Protesters carried signs which insisted upon 'justice for Ghost' (pictured) and claimed: 'It's not the truth until you show the proof.' Sandra Odelga, who runs a Facebook group that support residents whose dogs are killed by police, was present at the protest. She said: 'It seems to me there was no justification here. 'We have seen no evidence anyone was bitten by Ghost that day. 'We're here because we want justice for Ghost. We want police to admit they unlawfully killed him and to get his body back. 'Dogs are members of the family too and the bereavement of losing them is as much as if you lost a family member.' It is also understood that as of January 4 - nearly a month after the shooting - Ghost's body has not been released back to his family. In February 2024, it became illegal to keep an XL Bully dog in the UK without a Certificate of Exemption. It also became an offence to sell, abandon, give away, or breed an XL Bully - as well as to have one in public without a lead and muzzle. The XL Bully was killed in Hillsborough on December 7 after South Yorkshire Police said it received a 999 call claiming that a woman had been bitten More than a dozen dogs have been shot dead by South Yorkshire Police in the past year. In a statement, Chief Inspector Emma Cheney said: 'Dangerous dogs continue to be an emerging threat to our communities and are placing unprecedented demand on our force. 'During 2024, over 1,000 people were injured by dogs across South Yorkshire and our priority remains to keep the public and officers safe. 'All our officers and staff within the control room have received training in safeguarding those living with or in the proximity of reported dangerous dogs. 'Our frontline officers have received additional training in responding to incidents involving dangerous dogs. 'Firearms officers and dog handlers have received specialised training in containing dangerous dogs as well as additional equipment. 'As a force, we have invested in equipment to assist in containing and seizing dogs and as part of our commitment to protecting the public and our officers in attendance, we are constantly reviewing our operation tactics, learning from other forces and sourcing equipment.' RuPaul's Drag Race star Tyra Sanchez has sparked a furious backlash after sharing 'vile' posts about the sudden death of The Vivienne. The Vivienne, whose real name was James Lee Williams, tragically died last week aged 32 following a glittering career after being propelled to fame when they won the inaugural season of RuPaul's Drag Race UK in 2019. Police investigating the tragic star's 'sudden' death today confirmed there were 'no suspicious circumstances'. As tributes poured in for one of Britain's most recognisable drag queens, Sanchez, who won the second season of RuPaul's Drag Race, has been heavily criticised for a series of nasty tweets. Sanchez, formerly known as King Tyra and whose real name is James Ross, responded to a 2020 tweet from The Vivienne on the day that their untimely death was confirmed by manager Simon Jones. The Vivienne's old tweet from nearly five years ago said: 'Bet Tyra was fuming when she Realised Netflix Spoiled the win Too. Sorry gal. You Tried though.' Digging up the historical tweet on Sunday, Sanchez wrote: 'Yet it doesn't compare to the fumes of the crematorium.' The twisted tweet has been met with a flurry of criticism from fellow drag queens and fans. RuPaul Drag Race star Tyra Sanchez has sparked a backlash after making a sickening post about the sudden death of The Vivienne The Vivienne pictured in the promo for 2023's Dancing on Ice in which they came second The twisted tweet has been met with a flurry of criticism from fellow drag queens and fans Drag queen Kandy Muse, whose real name is Kevin Gabriel Candalario, said: 'I've defended you for years but now you can absolutely go f*** yourself and if our path were to ever cross it's absolutely on sight b****, it's not a threat it's a promise. you disgusting person.' But Sanchez replied: 'Threat received. Prepare your funeral.' The drag star also doubled down in a series of tweets afterwards, including one which said: 'She's dead. Rotting. Sending me all the hate in the world won't bring her back. But do as you must. Because of you the tweet has reached over 25k individuals. Thanks for the much needed attention that I oh so desperately needed.' Another X user posted: 'You are disgusting Shame on you.' And another wrote: 'This was very twisted. As someone who used to admire you, this is so coldhearted and disappointing.' The Vivienne's death has shocked fans of RuPaul Drag Race around the world. In an update on Monday, a spokesperson for Cheshire Police said officers were called to an address in Chorlton-by-Backford at 12.22pm on Sunday following reports of a sudden death. The spokesman said: 'Police attended, investigated the circumstances of the death of the 32-year-old man and concluded there were no suspicious circumstances. 'A file will be prepared for the coroner.' It comes after The Vivienne's publicist Simon Jones confirmed the star's death on Sunday, writing: 'It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams - The Vivienne, has passed this weekend. James Lee Williams, tragically died last week aged 32 following a glittering career that launched to new heights when they won the inaugural season of RuPaul's Drag Race UK Pictured: The Vivienne's post on Instagram announcing their return to The Wizard of Oz tour Tyra Sanchez doubled down on the twisted tweet and sparked a major backlash on Sunday 'James was an incredibly loved, warmhearted and amazing person. Their family are heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother and uncle. 'They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career. We will not be releasing any further details. 'We please ask that James's family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.' He continued: 'These are words I never ever wanted to write. Viv was a close friend, a client and someone I loved very much. 'From the moment I met them in 2019 I knew we could create magic together and I became their manager. Their talent was immense and the light they brought to every room was astonishing. No one has ever made me laugh as much in my life as Viv did. Their comic genius and quick wit was like no other. 'I'm so proud and lucky that Viv was such a big part of my life everyday for the last five years. It's tragic that their career was only just beginning. In musical theatre Viv had found a space and career they loved, excelled and thrived in. 'I am heartbroken and devastated at this news. RIP my wonderful friend. You left us way too soon.' Confirming the news on Instagram, Simon Jones PR wrote: 'It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams - The Vivienne, has passed this weekend RuPaul's Drag Race UK star The Vivienne pictured in May 2022 The Vivienne performed as the Wicked Witch of the West in a UK and Ireland tour of The Wizard Of Oz musical and reprised the role in the West End at the Gillian Lynne Theatre last year. They were due to be back on tour next month performing in the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang musical in the role of the Childcatcher. Speaking in 2019 ahead of competing in the first series of RuPaul's Drag Race UK, The Vivienne explained their name saying: 'I love Vivienne Westwood and when I moved to Liverpool everyone used to call me Vivienne as I was head to toe in Westwood.' The Vivienne said of their drag style: 'My style is like a Scouse wife who has come into money, she moved to LA and blew it all and then she's had to move back to Liverpool.' Colin Grafton and The Vivienne (right) during a photo call for Dancing On Ice 2023 Pictured: The Vivienne attending the British Soap Awards in 2023 at The Lowry Theatre in Salford RuPaul's Drag Race said it was 'deeply saddened to learn of the passing of The Vivienne'. In a post on social media, the television show said Williams's 'talent, humour, and dedication to the art of drag was an inspiration'. Fiona Campbell, BBC controller of youth audience, said the news was 'deeply sad', adding that the broadcaster was 'fiercely proud of The Vivienne's achievements'. Williams competed in Dancing On Ice in the same year as former EastEnders actress Patsy Palmer, who said in a tribute that she was 'lost for words' and 'deeply saddened'. 'You were so beautiful inside and out and I will never forget our experiences we shared during Dancing On Ice,' she wrote. A major incident was declared in Leicestershire today amid severe flooding as much of Britain braced for further heavy snow after temperatures plunged to -13C. Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service received 200 calls this morning and rescued 17 people, with crews continuing to attend stranded vehicles and flooded homes. More than 500 flood alerts or warnings were active across England and Wales, and the Met Office issued fresh weather warnings running until the end of Wednesday. In addition, officials at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have extended their amber cold weather health alert for all of England until at least noon this Sunday. The alerts had originally been imposed until Wednesday amid continued fears over 'significant impacts across health and social care services' over the coming days. The Met Office said maximum temperature will be widely several degrees Celsius below average this week, while the mercury may fall into the minus teens Celsius overnight in the coldest spots with 'widespread severe overnight frosts developing'. It comes as many commuters suffered travel disruption today - with major roads closed, railway lines blocked and Manchester Airport's runway closed for a time. The AA had already branded today 'Miserable Monday' with the motoring group expecting up to 20 distress calls a minute as many workers head back to the office after two weeks off with some having not used their car before Christmas. Meanwhile tens of thousands of children across England had their Christmas break extended by a day as more than 500 schools were closed amid the severe weather. A vehicle is submerged under water near the River Devon, in Bottesford, Leicestershire, today People walk in the snow near Allenheads in the Pennines in Northumberland this morning Floodwaters around the Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, today after heavy rain A car is driven through Derbyshire this morning as Mam Tor is blanketed in snow A man and dog walk through flooding at the Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, today Umbrellas blow in the wind as commuters walk to work across London Bridge this morning A rainbow is seen over flooded fields near the River Tone in Somerset this afternoon The Environment Agency issued 166 flood warnings, meaning flooding is expected, and 299 flood alerts, meaning flooding is possible, across England. In Wales, there were three flood warnings and 34 flood alerts. Meanwhile fresh Met Office weather warnings were issued this morning as wintry conditions continue to cause havoc. A new yellow snow and ice warning for South West England, the West Midlands, the North West and much of Wales will be active from 5pm today until 10am tomorrow. This warns of icy stretches developing this evening and further snow on the way with up to 2cm (0.8in) at lower levels and 5cm (2in) above 200m (650ft) in Wales. A second new snow warning was also announced by the Met Office today for southern England, including South London, on Wednesday from 9am to midnight. TODAY AND TOMORROW: New snow and ice warnings are in force both today and tomorrow WEDNESDAY: A new snow warning for southern England on Wednesday from 9am to midnight The UK Health Security Agency extended its amber cold weather health alert until January 12 The Environment Agency had issued 166 flood warnings (in red), meaning flooding is expected, and 299 flood alerts (in amber), meaning flooding is possible, across England today Forecasters said up to 5cm (2in) could accumulate fairly widely, and as much as 10cm (4in) on higher ground, especially over east or northeast-facing slopes. There is also a new snow and ice warning for northern Scotland from 4pm today until midday tomorrow, and in Northern Ireland from 3pm today until 11am tomorrow. It comes as many commuters today suffered travel disruption, with major roads closed and railway lines blocked. Manchester Airport's two runways were closed early this morning because of heavy snow but have since reopened. Britain also had its coldest night of winter so far, with the temperature dropping to -13.3C (8.1F) at Loch Glascarnoch in the Highlands, but it was much milder in South East England with St James's Park in London at 11.4C (52.5F) early this morning. Sonia Wheatley, a support worker from Loughborough who missed work today due to flooding on the roads, said it is the worst she has seen in the area. Mrs Wheatley, 52, whose husband also missed work, said: 'I've never missed work before because of the weather. Last year when it flooded, I managed to get through the floods, but it's never been this bad.' Mrs Wheatley left earlier this morning in anticipation of the flooding but said the water became too high to risk going through. A man digs a car out of the snow near Allenheads, in the Pennines in Northumberland today A flooded Eckington Road in Defford, Worcestershire, this afternoon A police officer stands after helping to clear cars from a snow drift near Ribblehead today Snow in Morley, West Yorkshire, today as weather warnings remain in force across the UK A stranded car in flood water on Green Road in the Hall Green area of Birmingham today Floodwaters around the Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, today after heavy rain A walker takes care in the snow at Gleneagles in Perthshire this afternoon Snow covers The Great Polish Map of Scotland at Barony Castle near Peebles today Snow in Morley, West Yorkshire, today as weather warnings remain in force across the UK A ScotRail train in snowy conditions near Gleneagles in Perthshire this afternoon A lorry makes it way through Studfold in the Yorkshire Dales today A person clears snow near Allenheads, in the Pennines in Northumberland this morning A vehicle is submerged under water near the River Devon, in Bottesford, Leicestershire, today Members of a Mountain Rescue team after helping to clear cars near Ribblehead today A man digs a car out of the snow near Allenheads, in the Pennines in Northumberland today A snow plough and gritting lorry clears snow at Ribblehead in North Yorkshire today Vehicles on the A703 in the Scottish Borders as much of the country battles with snow A walker takes care in the snow at Gleneagles in Perthshire this afternoon A farmer tends to sheep in the snow at Studfold in the Yorkshire Dales today A stranded car in flood water on Green Road in the Hall Green area of Birmingham today Council workers clear snow from the pavement in Howgate, Midlothian, this morning A woman with an umbrella walks in the rain near Tower Bridge in London this morning 'There's no rain at the moment, so I'm hoping I'll be able to get through tomorrow,' she added. Judi Beresford, Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service assistant chief fire and rescue officer, said: 'Flooding poses a serious risk to lives and property, and we urge everyone to take these warnings seriously. 'Our control room and crews are working tirelessly to assist those in need and to keep people safe. 'We are working with our partners to reduce the impact of this major incident and ask the public to avoid flooded routes when travelling and never to enter floodwater.' Thousands of journeys on the M25 in Surrey were being delayed as the motorway was closed in the anti-clockwise direction from junction 10 for the A3 to junction eight for Reigate after a lorry crashed into the central reservation and came to a rest sideways across the carriageway. Snow covers the village of Eddleston in the Scottish Borders amid severe weather today A blanket of snow near Allenheads, in the Pennines in Northumberland this morning Commuters with umbrellas walk to work across London Bridge in the rain this morning A blanket of snow near Allenheads, in the Pennines in Northumberland this morning A stranded car in flood water on Green Road in the Hall Green area of Birmingham today A flooded Eckington Road in Defford, Worcestershire, this afternoon A man and dog walk through flooding at the Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, today Snow surrounds the Langley Castle Hotel at Langley in Hexham, Northumberland, today A person clears snow near Allenheads, in the Pennines in Northumberland this morning Flooded fields near the River Tone in Somerset today as weather warnings remain in force A stranded car in flood water on Green Road in the Hall Green area of Birmingham today A man and dog walk through flooding at the Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, today People walk to work in the rain on the first Monday of the New Year in London today A driver clears snow from a car in Allendale, Northumberland, today amid the severe weather A stranded car in flood water on Green Road in the Hall Green area of Birmingham today Floodwaters around the Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, today after heavy rain Farmers tend to their sheep at Studfold in the snowy Yorkshire Dales this morning Snow is cleared in Catton, Northumberland, today as weather warnings remain in force A pedestrian walks along a flooded footpath near Eastleigh in Hampshire this morning The M5 in Gloucestershire was closed southbound from junction 11A for Gloucester to junction 12 for Quedgeley because of extensive flooding. Several stretches of A-roads across England were also closed because of severe weather. These include: The A66 in Cumbria in both directions between the A1M and the M6 because of snow. The A628 Woodhead Pass in South Yorkshire/Derbyshire in both directions between the A616 for Flouch and the A57 for Hollingworth because of flooding. The A49 in Herefordshire in both directions between the A4112 for Stockton and the A44 for Leominster because of flooding. The A46 in Warwickshire was also closed in both directions between the A452 for Kenilworth and the M40 (junction 15) because of a crash. Flooded fields near the River Tone in Somerset today as weather warnings remain in force A member of a Mountain Rescue team after helping to clear cars near Ribblehead today An car stuck in water on a flooded road after torrential rain in Hathern, Leicestershire, today A car is driven through Derbyshire this morning as Mam Tor is blanketed in snow A member of Mountain Rescue team after helping to clear cars from snow near Ribblehead A van passes along a flooded road in the Surrey village of Lingfield this morning A person walks along a snow covered path in Allendale, Northumberland, this morning A vehicle is submerged under water near the River Devon, in Bottesford, Leicestershire, today An car stuck in water on a flooded road after torrential rain in Hathern, Leicestershire, today A man clears snow in Catton, Northumberland, today amid the severe weather Rising floodwater in Yalding, Kent, today as weather warnings remain in force in the UK A car is driven through Derbyshire this morning as Mam Tor is blanketed in snow Cars stuck in flood water near Bakewell in Derbyshire this morning An aerial view of the snow around Buxton in Derbyshire today as warnings remain in place Floodwaters around the Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, today after heavy rain Motorists drive through standing water at Upton upon Severn in Worcestershire this morning Motorists contend with snow and ice this morning on the A623 near Mam Tor in Derbyshire Flood water begins to rise in Yalding, Kent, today as weather warnings remain in force A lorry makes its way through Studfold in the Yorkshire Dales today following heavy snow Floodwaters around the Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, today after heavy rain National Highways said 'a car is reported to have aquaplaned due to flooding in the area'. A-road closures in England this morning National Highways said several stretches of A-roads across England are closed because of snow, flooding or crashes. They include: The A66 in Cumbria in both directions between the A1M and the M6 because of snow. The A628 Woodhead Pass in South Yorkshire/Derbyshire in both directions between the A616 for Flouch and the A57 for Hollingworth because of flooding. The A1 in Lincolnshire in both directions between the A607 for Grantham and the B1174 for Little Ponton because of flooding. The A49 in Herefordshire in both directions between the A4112 for Stockton and the A44 for Leominster because of flooding. The A38 in Derbyshire northbound from the A50 for Findern to the A5111 for Mickleover because of a crash. The A46 in Warwickshire in both directions between the A452 for Kenilworth and the M40 (junction 15) because of a crash after a car 'aquaplaned due to flooding' Advertisement Aquaplaning is when a driver loses control because a layer of water prevents their tyres from gripping the road. Severe weather was also causing widespread disruption on the railway network. Flooding forced the closure of all railway lines between Derby and both Nottingham and East Midlands Parkway. This was affecting CrossCountry and East Midlands Railway services. The operators were also disrupted by flooding closing all lines between Peterborough and Leicester. Southeastern trains were unable to run from Ramsgate or Margate towards London via Canterbury West because of a fallen tree. Great Western Railway said its trains between Bristol Parkway and Gloucester were running at a reduced speed because of 'heavy rain flooding the railway'. TransPennine Express said severe weather was causing the same issue for its services between Barnetby and Scunthorpe in Lincolnshire. Flooding meant Transport for Wales services between Manchester and North Wales were only able to operate between Warrington Bank Quay and Manchester. Manchester Airport said at 7.15am that its two runways had reopened, after reporting at 6.30am that they were closed because of 'heavy snow'. Three departures for today have been cancelled and a number of other flights are delayed. Most of the UK saw heavy snow or icy rainfall over the weekend. Major airports closed their runways for several hours due to heavy snow, while there were stranded vehicles and collisions which blocked key roads across northern England. On Saturday, five men, aged in their 20, were rescued from Englands highest mountain after they were up to their waists in snow. The group from Harrogate had scaled Scafell Pike in the Lake District. Motorists drive through standing water at Upton upon Severn in Worcestershire this morning Flood water begins to rise at the Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, this morning A cyclist rides a bike past the flooded car park of the White Swan pub near Eastleigh today An aerial view of the snow around Buxton in Derbyshire today as warnings remain in place Motorists drive through standing water at Upton upon Severn in Worcestershire this morning Manchester Airport closed both runways again this morning as flights were delayed Flood water begins to rise at the Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, this morning Motorists drive through standing water at Upton upon Severn in Worcestershire this morning An aerial view of the snow around Buxton in Derbyshire today as warnings remain in place Floodwaters around the Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, today after heavy rain Motorists contend with snow and ice in the early morning around Buxton in Derbyshire today Flood water begins to rise at the Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, this morning Water covers the flooded car park of the White Swan pub near Eastleigh in Hampshire today A person walks through snow in Bradford, West Yorkshire, today amid the wintry weather An aerial view of the snow around Buxton in Derbyshire today as warnings remain in place Flood water begins to rise at the Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, this morning Floodwaters around the Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, today after heavy rain A person walks through snow in Bradford, West Yorkshire, today amid the wintry weather Motorists contend with snow and ice in the early morning around Buxton in Derbyshire today A snowy start to the day in Bradford, West Yorkshire, today as warnings remain in force A pedestrian in the snow and ice in the early morning around Buxton in Derbyshire today Motorists contend with snow and ice in the early morning around Buxton in Derbyshire today A car being removed from the beach in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, after a hero rescuer pulled an elderly man out of the vehicle sinking into the sea yesterday The rescuer waded into the sea and smashed the driver's side window with a rock last night Cold air will return and remain across the whole country from today onwards after a brief spell of milder conditions in southern areas, the Met Office said. The RAC said today would be the busiest day of the winter so far for vehicle breakdowns because of severe weather. RAC spokesman Rod Dennis said: 'Today will undoubtedly be the busiest of the winter so far and our patrols are working exceptionally hard rescuing thousands of our members in difficult conditions. Waiting times will be longer as a result. 'The impact of the weather, and the fact many people are using their vehicles for the first time after a festive break, means we're expecting to be 80% busier than normal. 'At our peak today, we will be dealing with upwards of 20 new breakdowns every minute. 'We urge drivers who know their vehicles are slow to start to book in a mobile mechanic or reliable local garage as soon as possible as it may mean a new battery is required. 'Conditions are especially challenging due to heavy rain and snowmelt causing flooding across the country.' More than 27,000 homes and businesses across Yorkshire and the North East of England lost power during the cold snap, network operators Northern Powergrid said. The firm said its teams have worked around the clock to restore electricity supplies to all but around 100 customers by lunchtime today. A spokesperson said: 'Our network continued to be impacted by the wintry weather conditions overnight, leading to customers predominately across Yorkshire and Northumberland experiencing power cuts. We want to thank our customers for their patience. 'We understand how difficult a power cut can be, particularly in these conditions, and our teams will continue to work until all of our customers' power is back on.' The body of a missing hiker was recovered near the North Fork of Lone Pine Creek Trail in Inyo County. Inyo County Sheriff's Office The body of a hiker who went missing after attempting to summit Mount Whitney in the Eastern Sierra last week has been found, officials said. A rescue team found the body of Taylor Rodriguez about a half-mile northwest of Upper Boy Scout Lake at an elevation of 12,000 feet around 1 p.m. Saturday, the Inyo County Sheriffs Office said on Facebook. The Inyo County Search and Rescue team and several other entities helped with the effort, which began Thursday. We extend our deepest condolences to Taylors family and friends during this difficult time, the sheriffs office said, adding that no additional details about the discovery were available. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Rodriguezs age and city of residence were not released. Spokespeople for the sheriffs office and the search and rescue team did not immediately respond to a request for more information. The body of missing hiker Taylor Rodriguez has been recovered. Inyo County Sheriff's Office Rodriguez was reported Thursday as an overdue hiker who officials believe was trying to summit Mount Whitney on Monday. Rescue team members did not know which route he took and were concerned that he had limited hiking experience and inadequate gear, officials said. Both entities put out a call on social media, asking the public to assist in the search. An elderly gunman dressed up as Father Christmas fatally shot a shopkeeper using a weapon hidden under his red robe in an alleged act of revenge. Shop owner Yuriy Surakin, 54, died on the spot moments after posing for a selfie with the alleged gunman, Valery Vasiliev, 71, in his costume. As Russia today marks Orthodox Christmas Eve, the suspect has been accused of concealing the firearm in his Santa disguise and shooting the local businessman in what has been described as an 'act of revenge' due to 'personal hostility'. Russian authorities detained Vasiliev following the deadly shooting and a court has remanded him in custody for two months as a murder investigation is launched. The bizarre shooting in Kanash town, Chuvashia region was caught on a security camera. The fake Santa, commonly known in Russia as Grandfather Frost, wandered into the Beryozka household electrical goods store and posed for pictures with the shop owner. Images show the old man donning a long, fake beard and glasses which hides the majority of his face. Vasiliev had the firearm hidden in his festive red and silver outfit, according to the Russian Investigative Committee. Shop owner Yuriy Surakin, 54, pictured left, posing for a selfie with the alleged gunman, Valery Vasiliev, 71, in his costume, pictured right The local businessman died on the spot after the fake Santa revealed his gun from his disguise The elderly property mogul shot the local businessman in what has been described as an 'act of revenge' due to 'personal hostility' It is believed that Surakin was shot as he was an ex-cop who had previously been responsible for jailing the man One theory swirling in local media is that Surakin - a former police officer - was behind his attacker being convicted to a jail term and that the shooting was an act of revenge. Father-of-seven Surakin, a grandfather, 'previously put the shooter behind bars,' said Bad News channel. 'After being released, the man decided to take revenge.' But this committee is also probing whether the city owed a debt to his alleged murderer. The suspect - who owns a property portfolio - went on the run after the shooting but was found in Vutaboshi village. A wanted poster read: 'The suspect is of stocky build, about 5ft 11in tall. 'He was wearing a red Santa Claus costume and white felt boots. 'He had a white beard and transparent glasses.' He had been on the run for less than a day, according to law enforcement. Before this, wanted images were circulated of the alleged killer. The fake Santa can be seen in shop security camera footage roaming around in his costume Vasiliev donned a long white beard and glasses to conceal his face Russian authorities detained Vasiliev following the deadly shooting and a court has remanded him in custody for two months as a murder investigation is launched Ex-cop and father-of-seven Surakin, 'previously put the shooter behind bars,' said Bad News channel. But this is not the first case of a Santa going bad, with shocking footage emerging in 2019 of a fake Father Christmas shooting two handguns at the home of the parents of a former Voice of Ireland star. CCTV captured the man in a red and white suit casually walking through the residential street in west Belfast before unloading a six-round clip at the property. He then drew a second gun with his left hand and fired six more rounds at the home of George Richmond, 59, and his wife Geraldine, 57, before running off. The couple - whose daughter Georgina, 33, was a finalist on the popular talent show The Voice of Ireland in 2016 - had to flee their home after a spate of suspected IRA attacks. The mother of Proud Boys leader Henry 'Enrique' Tarrio, jailed for his involvement in the Jan 6 riots, said she believes Donald Trump will pardon her son when he becomes president in two weeks' time. Tarrio, now 40, helped organize the far-right group's involvement in the 2021 attack on the US Capitol as lawmakers certified President Joe Biden's election victory. While he did not attend the insurrection, he was given a sentence of 22 years in September 2023, the longest handed down to date. Tarrio told the court he was 'ashamed' of his role at the time, judged a 'general rather than a soldier' by prosecutors who accused him of promoting violence. But Zuny Tarrio, his mother, told The Times, 'I do believe a Proud Boy is always a Proud Boy' as she insisted he still 'has a lot to give' ahead of the fourth anniversary of the riots. 'My hope is 100 per cent that my child will be pardoned,' she said. 'I believe in Donald Trump's word. He knows who his supporters were and are.' While Donald Trump previously promised to pardon most or all of the rioters if re-elected, President Biden warned ahead of the anniversary of an 'unrelenting effort... underway to rewrite - even erase - the history of that day' on Sunday. Enrique Tarrio pictured outside the Capitol on September 6, 2021 An explosion caused by a police munition is seen while supporters of U.S. President Donald Trump riot in front of the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, U.S., January 6, 2021 Tarrio during a rally in Portland, Oregon, on Sept. 26, 2020 Enrique Tarrio was convicted in May 2023 of seditious conspiracy, a seldom-used charge for planning to overthrow the government, and multiple other counts. His mother said that she did not discuss politics in depth with him when asked whether he was still committed to the group. Zuny Tarrio is an 'ardent believer' in her son's political views, The Times reports, and that Trump will pardon him when he takes office. As Trump supporters rallied on the Capitol four years ago today, Tarrio had written online that he was 'enjoying the show'. US District Court Judge Timothy Kelly ultimately concluded that he had began planning an attack since December 2020, organizing its command structure. More than 1,580 have since been charged and about 1,270 convicted as part of an investigation that has resulted in more than 660 prison sentences, per data released today. The Proud Boys leader appeared to back down from his position, saying in court: 'I am extremely ashamed and disappointed that they were caused grief and suffering. 'I will have to live with that shame for the rest of my life.' Proud Boys chairman Enrique Tarrio rallies in Portland, Oregon, August 17, 2019 A mob of supporters of U.S. President Donald Trump fight with members of law enforcement at a door they broke open as they storm the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, January 6, 2021 Pro-Trump protesters tear down a barricade as they clash with Capitol police during a rally at the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, U.S, January 6, 2021 He acknowledged that Trump had lost the November 2020 election and asked for mercy from the judge. Tarrio said at the time: 'I was my own worst enemy. My hubris convinced me that I was a victim and targeted unfairly.' In a recent opinion piece for The Washington Post, outgoing President Biden warned that there was an 'unrelenting effort' to downplay the attack on the US Capitol as Trump prepares to return to office. 'We should be proud that our democracy withstood this assault,' Biden wrote in an article published on Sunday. 'And we should be glad we will not see such a shameful attack again this year.' Congress will convene in Washington today to certify Trump's victory in November's election - in a session presided over by the candidate he defeated, Vice President Kamala Harris. No violence, or even procedural objections, are expected this time, marking a return to a U.S. tradition that launches the peaceful transfer of presidential power. On the fourth anniversary of the storming of the US Capitol, members of Congress will nonetheless be under heavy protection today as they certify Trump's win. Workers at the building have placed additional layers of high fencing around the grounds to secure the site, including on the west front, attacked four years ago. US President Joe Biden delivers remarks at a reception for new Democratic members of Congress at the State Dining Room of the White House in Washington, DC on January 5, 2025 Members of the activist organization Rise & Resist demonstrate holding signs and banners on the steps of the New York Public Library (NYPL) on Fifth Ave to protest President-elect Trump's promise to pardon those charged for the violent attack on the Capitol in 2021 Then-President Donald Trump speaks at a rally in Washington, January 6, 2021 Trump nonetheless continues to deny that he lost to Biden in 2020, already musing publicly about staying beyond the Constitutions two-term White House limit, and promising to pardon some of the 1,250 people who have pleaded guilty or were convicted of crimes for the Capitol siege. Biden vowed that the 'election will be certified peacefully'. 'I have invited the incoming president to the White House on the morning of Jan. 20, and I will be present for his inauguration that afternoon,' even though Trump skipped Biden's inauguration in 2021. 'But on this day, we cannot forget,' Biden added. 'We should commit to remembering Jan. 6, 2021, every year. To remember it as a day when our democracy was put to the test and prevailed. To remember that democracy - even in America - is never guaranteed.' The published piece followed Biden telling reporters at the White House earlier Sunday that the history of what occurred on Jan. 6, 2021, 'should not be rewritten' and adding, 'I dont think it should be forgotten.' Biden spent much of 2024 warning voters that Trump was a serious threat to the nations democracy. Demonstrators attempt to breach the U.S. Capitol after they earlier stormed the building in Washington, DC, U.S., on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021 Violent protesters loyal to President Donald Trump, including Kevin Seefried, center, holding a Confederate battle flag, are confronted by U.S. Capitol Police officers outside the Senate Rioters storm the West Front of the U.S. Capitol, Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington And this past week, the president awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal to Liz Cheney and Bennie Thompson, leaders of the congressional investigation into the Capitol riot. As he did with his opinion piece, Biden used his Sunday comments to reporters to stress that his administration is overseeing a peaceful handover of power - unlike the last one. 'Ive reached out to make sure the smooth transition,' Biden said of Trump's incoming administration. 'We've got to get back to basic, normal transfer of power.' Asked if he still viewed his soon-to-be successor in the White House as a threat to democracy, Biden responded, 'I think what he did was a genuine threat to democracy. I'm hopeful were beyond that now.' Nick Ferrari has revealed he is engaged to his long-term partner Clare Patterson after popping the question over Christmas at their favourite restaurant in France. The radio host, 65, shared the happy announcement on This Morning with presenters Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley. Deeley announced that they had 'breaking news', before revealing that Ferrari was 'officially off the market' after a decade dating his girlfriend, a radio producer 15 years his junior. The LBC presenter then chimed in: 'Well I know a nation's heart is broken but I have to impart the news that I am engaged to be wed to Clare.' Panelist Vanessa Feltz greeted the news by joking that she was 'devastated'. Ferrari said: 'I am engaged to be wed to Clare. We had the most idyllic Christmas and we'd been to Lapland and had a brilliant time. 'Then we were down in the South of France and after ten years together I said she can make an honest man out of me. I did it at our favourite restaurant in the South of France.' Ferrari said he jokingly got down on one knee while they were in a DIY store but then asked her to pass him a screwdriver instead. Nick Ferrari has announced he is engaged to Clare Patterson, his girlfriend of 10 years The couple pictured at a press night for Charles Dickens: Great Expectations in London on May 26, 2023 The broadcaster shared the joyous news on This Morning, hosted by Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley Ferrari had two sons with his ex wife Sandra Phylis Conolly, but is now divorced. He has previously declined to share many details about his new fiancee in interviews, but revealed in 2017 that she was a colleague. Known for his robust interviewing style, Ferrari hosts his own weekday breakfast show on LBC. He has also made appearances on The Pledge on Sky News, Richard & Judy, London Tonight and BBC London News. The broadcaster made headlines in 2023 after calling for the bosses of water companies to be jailed if their company pumps sewage into rivers. To rapturous applause from the audience, Ferrari said the scandal would be 'solved overnight' if the Government properly punished the bosses for the sins of their water firms by changing the law to make them personally responsible. He revealed one of his children had caught Weil's disease, adding: 'Fortunately he lived. It is a killer. 'And they [water companies] are playing with people's lives by putting sewage in the water. 'Put them behind bars, it will be solved overnight'. Ferrari said: 'I am engaged to be wed to Clare. We had the most idyllic Christmas and we'd been to Lapland and had a brilliant time' Ferrari with his ex wife, Sandra Phylis Conolly, at a drinks reception in London He added: 'This is the way we solve it and it's very simple. When the government wants to, they can bring in a law overnight, like the Public Order Act, which saw six people with some banners and a load of rubber bands arrested and thrown in jail. 'This is the law that needs to come in. Any chief executive who continually allows his or her company to put raw sewage into the water - let's get this law enacted - will go to jail for five years.' Educated at Eltham College, a private school in London, Ferrari began his journalism career at his father Lino's news agency, Ferrari Press Agency. He later worked on newspapers including The Sun and The Mirror before embarking on his broadcasting career. Costco has urgently recalled cold and flu medicines citing a 'potential foreign material contamination' accidentally shipped across the U.S. The retailer released a statement warning consumers who had bought Kirkland Signature Severe Cold & Flu Plus Congestion medication from stores in the Midwest and Southeast of the country. 'Out of an abundance of caution, LNK has initiated a recall for the accidental release and shipment of a specific lot code that was rejected due to potential foreign material contamination,' the statement read. Costco urged customers not to use any remaining product marked with lot code P140082. The statement assured that customers would be eligible for a full refund if they return the item to their local store. People who bought the medication between October 30 and November 30 were urged to check the boxes. File photo. Costco urged customers to check some products and return them for a full refund People who bought the medication between October 30 and November 30 were urged to check the boxes Customers with any issues or concerns were urged to call LNK International Inc. at 1-800-436-9391 or email complaints-inquiries@lnkintl.com. Last month, 8,640 boxes of Kirkland Severe Cold & Flu Plus Congestion Day and Night were recalled by the FDA as the active ingredient oral phenylephrine was judged 'not effective' as a nasal decongestant following review, FOX 10 reports. Boxes of the cold and flu product recalled in December had lot numbers P139953 or P139815, expiring in August 2026. The winter season has seen cold and flu cases soar, with reports of influenza rising 12 per cent in the last week of December, according to the CDC. Five influenza-related deaths were reported that week for a total of nine this season, as of December 27. Some 63 million Americans have meanwhile been warned to brace for dire weather as schools and government offices are shuttered, with Snow Storm Blair moving east. Temperatures across two-thirds of the US are expected to fall 12-25F below normal today, after reaching 11 below in Minnesota, on the Canadian border, on Sunday. The National Weather Service warned that affected regions could see their heaviest snowfall 'in at least a decade', some experiencing their coldest weather since 2011. The Organic Pasture Raised 24-Count Eggs with the UPC number 9661910680 are packaged in plastic egg cartons labeled with Kirkland Signature on the top The recall only applies to products with the Julian code 327 and a use by date of January 5, 2025, which can be found printed on the side of the plastic egg carton. No other products are impacted by this recall Beyond the cold and flu medication recall, Costco was recently forced to recall eggs over fears of salmonella contamination. On November 27, Handsome Brook Farms issued a recall notice of 10,800 units of Organic Pasture Raised 24-Count Eggs sold under the Kirkland Signature brand name. The eggs were sold at 25 Costco stores across Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee beginning on November 22. New York-based manufacturer Handsome Brook Farms said the eggs were not intended for sale but somehow they were packaged and distributed 'by mistake.' The FDA has since updated the recall as a 'Class I' as the eggs 'have the potential to be contaminated with the bacteria salmonella, which hospitalizes 26,000 Americans every year. A 'Class I' recall is a 'situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death'. The wife of an Australian tourist who died in Bali just nine days after their wedding has pledged to buy a defibrillator for the hospital where medical staff tried to revive him. Jacob Vennix, 32, and his new wife, Kimberley Fuller, 38, had been relaxing at Pasut Beach, about 30km west of Denpasar last Monday when tragedy struck. He died after being washed out to sea by a strong current while swimming at the estuary. The Adelaide father-of-two was unable to be revived when his body returned to shore. In a heartwarming post on Monday, Ms Fuller thanked those who had donated to the GoFundMe set up to help her and offered support as she and her two young sons grieve. 'Thank you to every kind human who has sent me messages, offered to chat, lend a hand with the boys and brought flowers and food. Your thoughts really lighten my spirit to know there is so much good in the world,' she began. 'I would also like to thank those friends and strangers that have contributed to the GoFundMe page. 'The money raised will help bring Jacob home and cover funeral expenses. Jacob Vennix was honeymooning with his new wife Kimberley Fuller (pictured together) in Bali when he tragically drowned 'I thought I booked travel insurance but I didnt and his life insurance lapsed so the money is greatly appreciated to help ease the pressure adjusting to life as a single mum with a mortgage.' Ms Fuller added: 'We also plan to buy a defibrillator for the hospital Jacob was taken to as they didnt have one.' The grieving widow also shared a plea to fellow tourists on the dangers of swimming in the sea. 'Please guys, if youre not familiar with the conditions of the ocean, dont be like me and assume if they say its "fine" to swim in, it is,' she said. 'Other countries dont have warning signs like us.' A GoFundMe page set up by Mr Vennix's sister Claire Brown, has revealed how selfless he was in helping others - including running a 12km race blindfolded just a few months before his death to raise money for the vision-impaired. 'Kimberley and Jacob met in February 2022 at a Coles supermarket when Jacob saw his now-stepson Isaac playing with a Guide Dogs donation box,' she wrote. 'Ironically, in a twist of fate two years later their son Cole was born with a bilateral optic nerve hypoplasia impacting his vision. Ms Fuller (pictured with Mr Vennix on their wedding day) has pledged to buy the hospital where Mr Vennix was treated a defibrillator 'In September 2024 Jacob ran the City to Bay blindfolded to raise awareness that vision-impaired people can do the same things as those with full sight. 'Jacob and Kimberley raised money for the Guide Dogs SA/NT.' Ms Brown revealed that her brother had recently resigned from his job to 'embark on a career in disability support, a career close to his heart'. Her sister-in-law will also need support in the wake of his death. 'Kimberley is always there for others, lending a hand and offering support without hesitation.' she said. '(She) is now confronted with the unforeseen challenge of saying goodbye to Jacob and adjusting to life as a grieving single mother of two young boys.' More than $38,000 has been raised so far. The day after his death, Ms Fuller paid tribute to 'the most beautiful human, partner and father'. Mr Vennix (pictured with his son and stepson) died after being washed out to sea by a strong current at Pasut Beach Ms Fuller captioned her heartfelt social media post with photo of their hands intertwined taken 'during the last night I had with him'. 'All he wanted was to marry me and love and look after me and the boys. I will make sure the boys know what an angel he was,' she wrote. 'Now an angel in heaven. I love you my darling. I'm so sorry.' Prime Minister Anthony Albanese led the messages of condolences for Mr Vennix, describing the tragedy as 'such deeply sad news'. 'Our thoughts are with Jacob's wife, family and friends,' he wrote. Friends paid tribute to Mr Vennix on his wife's post, with one saying he was 'one of the nicest, most amazing gentlemen I've known'. Another said he was 'such a nice guy' and that it had been 'an honour to have gotten to know him'. Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong said she was 'heartbroken for Mr Vennix's wife and loved ones' (pictured, the couple on their wedding day) One friend complimented Ms Fuller for her post, writing: 'You've found perfect words for an unimaginable situation. 'We've been thinking of you all day! Sending all our love and we're here if you need anything.' Another added: 'The love you shared was so special and beautiful to witness, forever in our hearts and thoughts.' Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong, who represents the couple's home state of South Australia in the Senate, said she was 'heartbroken for Mr Vennix's wife and loved ones'. 'I know all Australians will be thinking of them,' she said. 'The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and our consular officials in Bali will continue to provide consular assistance.' Mr Vennix became caught in a rip and was swept out to sea when his wife immediately called for help. A local fisherman rushed to help Mr Vennix in his boat, but struggled to reach him due to the shifting currents. Ms Fuller (left) remembered Mr Vennix (right) as 'the most beautiful human, partner and father' Tabanan Police spokesperson I Gusti Made Berata said when the fisherman was finally able to drag the Aussie on board, a large wave flipped the boat. 'The victim was later swept by the wave onto the beach,' he said. 'Some locals and the victim's wife who were waiting on the beach immediately tried to save the victim. 'The victim's condition was unconscious.' Heartbreaking footage showed Mr Vennix's wife carrying the large cushion of a beach chair into the water to help bring Mr Vennix to shore. The victim's wife performed CPR with the assistance of locals and he was eventually taken to Tabanan Public Hospital, where he was declared dead. It is understood he and Ms Fuller had wed on December 21, nine days before the freak incident. Photographs showed the couple tying the knot at the Hard Days Night function centre in Adelaide. It is understood he and Ms Fuller had wed on December 21, nine days before the freak incident The couple smiled from ear to ear as they exchanged their vows in front of a celebrant. One photo showed the couple happily posing with a marriage certificate on one of the lounges at the venue. 'Beautiful day marrying a beautiful man x,' Ms Fuller captioned a photo on Facebook. Mr Vennix described Ms Fuller as 'my stunning wife' and said he couldn't 'be prouder' in a heartbreaking post a day before. Labour's anti-corruption minister Tulip Siddiq has referred herself to a watchdog and cancelled an upcoming trip to China amid questions over her property interests. The Hampstead and Highgate MP will be probed by Sir Laurie Magnus, the independent adviser on ministerial standards, about her use of homes linked to her aunt. Ms Siddiq, the niece of recently-deposed Bangladeshi prime minister Sheikh Hasina, is under pressure over her links to the ousted regime in the Asian country. She used a flat in Hampstead, north London, after it was gifted to her teenage sister by an ally of the Awami League party. Moin Ghani, a Bangladeshi lawyer who has represented Hasina's government, was reported to be the generous donor. It also emerged that Ms Siddiq was given a flat in King's Cross by another associate of senior Awami League members. Asked if Ms Siddiq should be transparent about her use of properties linked to her aunt, Sir Keir Starmer revealed she had referred herself to Sir Laurie. But the Prime Minister also offered his full backing to the Labour minister. Labour's anti-corruption minister Tulip Siddiq has referred herself to a watchdog amid questions over her property interests Sir Keir Starmer offered his full backing to the Labour minister after being asked if Ms Siddiq should be transparent about her use of properties linked to her aunt Associated Press footage from 2013 shows Ms Siddiq attending the signing of a deal between her aunt and Russian president Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin 'Tulip Siddiq has acted entirely properly by referring herself to the independent adviser, as she has now done,' Sir Keir said this morning, as he took media questions following a speech on NHS reform. 'That's why we brought into being the new code, it's to allow ministers to ask the adviser to establish the facts. 'Yes I've got confidence in her and that's the process that will now be happening.' Hasina stands accused by the new Bangladeshi administration of 'massacres, killings and crimes against humanity', including the deaths of at least 800 protesters. She is also accused of corruption and embezzlement, with her rule ending in self-imposed exile last August following an uprising. Sir Keir, who is a neighbouring MP to Ms Siddiq as well as a close friend, was reported to have visited Hasina while he was a backbencher. The 2016 trip was funded by Labour Friends of Bangladesh a group strongly associated with Ms Siddiq. In 2022, he was pictured meeting her in London once he had become leader of the Opposition. Tory MP Matt Vickers, a shadow Home Office minister, said: 'It is disappointing that Keir Starmer has allowed scandal in his Government to overshadow today's announcement. 'There are clear questions for his friend and anti-corruption minister Tulip Siddiq to answer about allegations made about her. 'She must be held to the same standards as other ministers in his Government, indications so far show that that may not be the case.' Ms Siddiq insisted she had 'done nothing wrong' in a letter to Sir Laurie. She said: 'In recent weeks I have been the subject of media reporting, much of it inaccurate, about my financial affairs and my family's links to the former government of Bangladesh. 'I am clear that I have done nothing wrong. However, for the avoidance of doubt, I would like you to independently establish the facts about these matters. 'I will obviously ensure you have all the information you need to do this.' Ms Siddiq, the Economic Secretary to the Treasury, had been due to join a delegation heading to China this week, but will now stay in the UK as she fights to clear her name. A source said: 'Tulip wants to be the UK so she is available to assist the independent adviser on ministerial standards.' Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to visit China for talks with vice premier He Lifeng at the end of the week. Mr Ghani is understood to have given the flat on Finchley Road to Ms Siddiq's sister Azmina, then 18, in 2009. Land Registry documents state that the transfer was 'not for money or anything that has a monetary value'. The minister listed the flat as her address on Companies House on three occasions between 2012 and 2014, before becoming a Labour MP. Her husband, Christian Percy, listed it as his residence as late as May 2016, by which time Ms Siddiq represented Hampstead and Kilburn. The property was sold for 650,000 in 2021. A spokesman for Ms Siddiq said: 'Any suggestion that Tulip Siddiq's ownership of this property, or any other property is in any way linked to support for the Awami League, would be categorically wrong.' Ms Siddiq was previously named in an anti-corruption investigation in Bangladesh. She is alleged to have been involved in brokering a 2013 deal with Russia for a nuclear power plant in Bangladesh in which large sums of cash are said to have been embezzled. Ms Siddiq has 'denied any involvement in the claims' accusing her of involvement in embezzlement, according to No 10. Sources close to the minister have described the allegations as 'spurious'. Associated Press footage from 2013 shows Ms Siddiq attending the signing of the deal between her aunt and Russian president Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin. Ms Siddiq voluntarily referred herself to Sir Laurie, Downing Street said. Asked whether she had been told to refer herself to the independent adviser, the PM's official spokesman said: 'I would never get into private conversations, but it's very clear that it was the minister's idea to self-refer.' The spokesman added that Sir Laurie would conduct a 'fact-finding' exercise to determine if 'further action' was needed, including a further investigation, and the Government would make the outcome of that exercise public, but could not set a timeline for it. He said: 'It will be conducted as swiftly as possible. It isn't for me to place a timeline on an independent process.' Syria's new justice minister is allegedly seen overseeing the execution of two women in shocking video filmed in an Islamist-held region nearly ten years ago. Syrian fact-checker Verify-Sy claims to have identified the man overseeing the executions as Shadi Muhammad al-Waisi, the Minister of Justice in Syria's new government, 'using voice and facial matching' despite the poor quality of the videos. The footage was reportedly taken in 2015, in two cities in Idlib, northwestern Syria, where the Jabhat al-Nusra front - al-Qaida's Syrian branch - was in power at the time. The Islamic group executed the women under its application of Sharia law. One clip shows a man, allegedly al-Waisi, 40, standing over a kneeling woman in Hafsarja, Idlib. The man said that the woman was sentenced to death for 'infidelity and prostitution'. In a second clip, a woman is begging the man identified by Verify-sy as al-Waisi to allow her to 'see my children'. The footage was reportedly filmed in Ma'arit Misrin, also in Idlib, a week prior to the other video. Both women appeared to have been killed by gunshots to the head shortly after. Men standing around shouted 'Allahu Akbar', seemingly celebrating their deaths. A senior official in Syria's new government confirmed to Verify-Sy that the man in the video is al-Waisi, who was reportedly a judge in 2015, when the video was supposedly taken. The source said the video represented the enforcement of the law 'at a specific time and place' and that the 'procedures were carried out in accordance with the laws in effect at that time'. Although the quality of the footage is poor, Syrian fact-checker Verify-Sy claims to have identified the man overseeing the executions as Shadi Muhammad al-Waisi, the Minister of Justice in Syria's new government Pictured above is Shadi Mohammad al-Waisi, the justice minister in Syria's new government In a second clip, a woman is begging the man identified by Verify-sy as al-Waisi to allow her to 'see my children'. The footage was reportedly filmed in Ma'arit Misrin, also in Idlib, a week prior to the other video But the government source added that the footage also reflected 'a stage that we have passed', adding that there would be a 'thorough review' of 'all legal actions taken during that period [...] to ensure the validity of the sentences and their alignment with standards of justice and fairness'. In 2015, the area around Idlib was controlled by Jabhat al-Nusra, many members of which are now part of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the group that led the rebel offensive in Syria which toppled Bashar al-Assad's government. HTS, led by former al-Qaeda and ISIS jihadist Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, is a powerful Islamist organisation that has maintained de facto control of Idlib for several years. The group solidified in 2017 as a conglomeration of various Islamist factions but traces its roots to al-Qaeda, even though HTS later sought to reposition itself as a legitimate Syrian nationalist organisation. It officially severed ties with al-Qaeda and created a civilian arm known as the 'Salvation Government' through which it seeks to govern in Syria, insisting it has no ambition to expand beyond the nation's borders. Initial reports from civilians in Aleppo following the demise of Assad appeared to suggest that HTS militants have treated inhabitants well after ousting Syrian government forces. But there are suspicions that HTS' jihadist origins remain and it is still designated a terrorist organisation by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), US, UK and the EU, among others. The videos of al-Waisi resurfaced a year after he said that Islamic Sharia was the reference for the judicial system as then justice minister in Idlib's Salvation Government. Both women appeared to have been killed by gunshots to the head shortly after. Men standing around shouted 'Allahu Akbar', seemingly celebrating their deaths The footage was reportedly taken in 2015, in two cities in Idlib, northwestern Syria, where the Jabhat al-Nusra front - al-Qaida's Syrian branch - was in power at the time. The Islamic group executed the women under its application of Sharia law The video clips included the moment the woman was shot in the head and fell to the ground Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, a former jihadist, chose not to shake hands with Annalena Baerbock at a meeting in Damascus Just a few days ago, al-Waisi reportedly said that as most Syrians were Muslims, Sharia law would align with their faith and its application would therefore be supported by the majority. When al-Waisi was appointed justice minister by Syrian interim Prime Minister Mohammad al-Bashir, he allegedly announced the removal of all female judges from the judiciary. This comes as Germany's foreign minister Annalena Baerbock pushed back against claims of a 'handshake scandal' after Syria's de facto leader al-Jolani refused to shake her hand because she is a woman. Al-Jolani chose not to shake hands with Baerbock at a meeting in Damascus, but gestured towards Jean-Noel Barrot, France's male foreign minister. German newspaper Bild branded the event a 'handshake scandal' after video footage emerged of the apparent snub. In the Muslim world, conservative men and women are not allowed to touch each other unless they are either family or husband and wife. The incident came amid calls for Syria to be transformed into a freer, more tolerant society. Despite his militant past, al-Jolani, 42, has claimed to be a moderate force seeking power for the good of all Syrians, not just its radical Islamists. Ms Baerbock, nevertheless, dismissed criticism of al-Jolani, saying she did not expect an 'ordinary handshake' from the rebel leader who toppled former president al-Assad. Jacqui Lambie unleashed a furious tirade after being asked a question on The Project about the proposed new AFL stadium to be built in Hobart. The firebrand senator appeared on Monday night's program to discuss the controversial project earmarked for Tasmania's new AFL team. An independent report released by the state government on the weekend revealed that constructing the new 23,000 capacity venue in Hobart will cost more than $1 billion. The report from economist Nicholas Gruen also highlighted major concerns about costs, mismanagement and overstated economic benefits. Tasmania's two major parties are yet to back the project, which will need to pass both houses of parliament later this year in order to go ahead. Hours after blasting the proposed stadium as a 'real dud' and urging the state government to tell the AFL 'to stick it', Senator Lambie doubled down on The Project, where she branded the development as 'an absolute disgrace' and a 'bloody disaster'. She became fired up after comedian Sam Taunton sparked debate by pointing out that the AFL usually use their power to get what they want. The mention of Hobart's proposed AFL stadium fired up Jacqui Lambie on Monday night 'If Tasmania does get a team and a new stadium is built...' Taunton asked before the senator quickly interjected. 'Mate, honestly, I have to be honest with you. I don't give a stuff how powerful they are,' she said. 'You're talking to Jacqui Lambie here and I don't give a s***!' The expletive sparked laughter from the panel as the senator continued her rant with a scathing message to the AFL. 'I don't care! My job is to get what's best for the nation and what's best for the country. That's my job so I don't care!' she fumed. 'Go and put your big shirts on and come and take Jacqui Lambie on as I'm not leaving until we get a better deal!' Taunton interrupted: 'Jacqui, I'm not building the stadium! It's not me. I need you to know that!' Senator Lambie was keen to put Taunton in his place. 'That's right, get me at the table with them, Big Boy!' she said. Taunton later quipped: 'Thank you for calling me Big Boy!' The senator replied: 'Calm down. Put the ego back in the paper bag!' The senator's foul-mouthed rant stunned The Project's Georgie Tunny and Sarah Harris Panellist Georgie Tunny joked: 'It's too much to contain Jacqui! It's too much!' Host Sarah Harris weighed in as she wrapped up the segment. 'Jacqui, you've made Sam's night- and his life!' she said. Senator Lambie replied: 'He wouldn't be the first one I've made blush!' Afterwards, Taunton was asked by Harris whether he was terrified or turned on. 'That's the crossover. Wow!' he replied. The fiery segment divided viewers. 'Jacqui Lambie was too much histrionics. Well done to Sam Taunton for asking proper questions,' one wrote. Another added: 'Omg! She is so embarrassing.' But others praised the senator and led calls for her to be the next prime minister. 'I bloody love that woman,' another wrote. Comedian Sam Taunton (pictured) was put in his place by the firebrand senator The report found the cost of the Macquarie Point stadium would increase by $321 million and had been 'significantly understated', while the cost-benefit ratio had been 'significantly overstated' at 44 cents in every dollar invested. 'Tasmania deserves an AFL team and must have it at the right cost but not at any cost,' Mr Gruen said in the report. 'Tasmania is not a wealthy state and it must meet substantial social and economic challenges.' Mr Gruen found the project was already displaying the 'hallmarks of mismanagement', saying a state government pledge to deliver it without borrowing more than $375 million 'cannot be met'. The construction of the 23,000-seat waterfront stadium is a condition of Tasmania's entry into the AFL, with the Tasmanian Devils due to join the competition in 2028. Students at a Massachusetts university are facing criminal charges for allegedly beating and kidnapping a 22-year-old soldier after they lured him to the campus as part of a 'To Catch a Predator' TikTok trend. One of the five accused students, 18-year-old Kelsy Brainard, reportedly met the man on Tinder and invited him to come to Assumption University on October 1 so they could 'try and hook up'. Unknowingly, the soldier - who wishes to remain anonymous - was about to become the victim of a TikTok recreation of To Catch a Predator where users attempt to recreate the hit television show that attempted to catch adult men trying to meet underage girls online. Once he arrived at the $70,000-per-year Catholic university he was surrounded by a group of 25 or more students, The New York Times reported. They then proceeded to start accusing the victim of being a pedophile and of attempting to have sex with 17-year-old girls. The man told Assumption Police that as he attempted to flee back to his car students filmed him on their cell phones and allegedly started punching him and slamming his head into the car door. Security footage, seen by police, reportedly showed the group laughing and high-fiving as they left the scene. After the attack, the unnamed man called the police. Brainard also reported the victim to the cops by falsely claiming he came to campus to meet underage girls. The entrance to Assumption University in Massachusetts. Five students at the Catholic university have charged with allegedly beating and kidnapping a 22-year-old soldier Police were told that the students were were attempting to recreate the popular NBC Dateline show 'To Catch a Predator' which saw undercover sting operations across America work to catch men attempting to sleep with underage children Five students - Easton Randall, Kevin Carroll, Joaquin Smith, Isabella Trudeau and Brainard - were charged on December 4 with kidnapping and conspiracy. They have also been accused of orchestrating the 'deliberately staged event'. Brainard has been charged with witness intimidation and Carroll was charged with assault and battery after he reportedly admitted to slamming the victim's head in the car door. An unnamed minor also faces charges. The incident allegedly started after Randall messaged a group chat telling fellow pupils to 'come down here we're catching a predator'. The 19-year-old reportedly told police that the group were attempting to recreate the popular NBC Dateline show 'To Catch a Predator' which saw undercover sting operations across America work to catch men attempting to sleep with underage children. After a review of Brainard's dating profile, police found no evidence that the 22-year-old victim was seeking sexual relations with an underage girl. Police determined that Brainard's report was 'false and fabricated' and 'her victimization was fraudulently reported to mislead police in believing a sexual predator was on campus to conceal that the subject was lured to campus', according to court documents obtained by CBS News. Students at a Assumption University (pictured) are facing criminal charges for allegedly beating and kidnapping a 22-year-old soldier after they lured him to the campus as part of a 'To Catch a Predator TikTok trend' The victim told police he was in Worcester, Massachusetts for his grandmother's funeral when he began talking to Brainard on the dating app. In a statement, Assumption University said: 'This incident highlights the very real harm that social media can inflict when it promotes dangerous and irresponsible behavior,' the statement read in part. 'While we cannot comment on the ongoing student conduct investigations and attendant disciplinary processes, Assumption University is committed to maintaining a campus environment where every individual is treated with respect and dignity--including guests. 'We strongly condemn all forms of violence and misconduct, and we are dedicated to fostering a community where all individuals feel safe and supported.' President Joe Biden has banned all future offshore oil and gas drilling in a last-ditch effort to stop Donald Trump from keeping his promise to expand offshoring drilling. It's a blatant move to try and sabotage the incoming Trump administration as the MAGA die hard has pledged to reverse Biden's climate change policies when he takes office in 14 days. Trump campaigned on a 'drill baby, drill' slogan and has pledged to throw out all of Biden's green energy policies on Day One. In an effort to get ahead of Trump, Biden declared he is using his authority under the 70-year-old Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to block all future oil and natural gas leasing in most U.S. coastal waters. The ban would stop offshoring drilling in all federal waters off the East and West coasts, the eastern Gulf of Mexico and portions of the northern Bering Sea in Alaska. Biden's order will not affect large swaths of the Gulf of Mexico, where most U.S. offshore drilling occurs, but it would protect coastlines along California, Florida and other states from future drilling. The action - which protect more than 625 million acres of federal waters - could be difficult for Trump to unwind, since it will likely require an act of Congress to repeal. Trump's spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt mocked Biden's move writing on X: 'Joe Biden clearly wants high gas prices to be his legacy.' She went on to slam the 'a disgraceful decision designed to exact political revenge on the American people who gave President Trump a mandate to increase drilling and lower gas prices.' Joe Biden, pictured on Sunday, has moved to ban new offshore oil and gas drilling in most US coastal waters in a last-minute effort to block possible action by the incoming Trump administration to expand offshore drilling President-elect Donald Trump, pictured in October last year, has vowed to establish what he calls American 'energy dominance' around the world as he seeks to boost US oil and gas drilling and move away from Biden's focus on climate change Trump's spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt mocked Biden's move writing on X: ' Joe Biden clearly wants high gas prices to be his legacy' 'Rest assured, Joe Biden will fail, and we will drill, baby, drill.' During his term, Biden limited new oil and gas leasing on federal lands and waters, drawing criticism from drilling states and companies. But Trump has vowed to establish what he calls American 'energy dominance' around the world as he seeks to boost oil and gas drilling and move away from Biden's focus on climate change. Biden said the move was aligned with both his climate change agenda and his goal to conserve 30 per cent of American lands and waters by 2030. He also invoked the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, saying the low drilling potential of the areas included in the ban did not justify the public health and economic risks of future leasing. 'My decision reflects what coastal communities, businesses and beachgoers have known for a long time: that drilling off these coasts could cause irreversible damage to places we hold dear and is unnecessary to meet our nation's energy needs,' Biden said in a statement. 'As the climate crisis continues to threaten communities across the country and we are transitioning to a clean energy economy, now is the time to protect these coasts for our children and grandchildren,' he added. But the Lands Act, which allows presidents to withdraw areas from mineral leasing and drilling, does not grant them the legal authority to overturn prior bans, according to a 2019 court ruling. That order came in response to Trump's effort to reverse Arctic and Atlantic Ocean withdrawals made by former President Barack Obama at the end of his presidency. Trump signed a memorandum in 2020 directing the Interior secretary to prohibit drilling in the waters off both Florida coasts, and off the coasts of Georgia and South Carolina until 2032. The action came after he initially moved to vastly expand offshore drilling, before retreating amid widespread opposition in Florida and other coastal states. Biden's decision will protect the same area with no expiration. In balancing multiple uses of America's oceans, Biden said it was clear that the areas he is withdrawing from fossil fuel use show 'relatively minimal potential' that does not justify possible environmental, public health and economic risks that would come from new leasing and drilling. Biden's actions, which protect more than 625 million acres of federal waters, could be difficult for Trump to unwind, since they would likely require an act of Congress to repeal. Pictured is h a view of offshore oil and gas platform Esther in the Pacific Ocean on January 5, 2025 in Seal Beach, California Environmental advocates are hailing Biden's ban, saying new oil and gas drilling must be sharply curtailed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming. 2024 was the hottest in recorded history. 'This is an epic ocean victory!' said Joseph Gordon, campaign director for the environmental group Oceana. Gordon thanked Biden 'for listening to the voices from coastal communities' that oppose drilling and 'contributing to the bipartisan tradition of protecting our coasts.' He added: 'Our treasured coastal communities are now safeguarded for future generations.' But an oil and gas industry trade group said the decision would harm American energy security and should be reversed by Congress. 'We urge policymakers to use every tool at their disposal to reverse this politically motivated decision and restore a pro-American energy approach to federal leasing,' American Petroleum Institute President Mike Sommers said in a statement. Biden has proposed up to three oil and gas lease sales in the Gulf of Mexico, but none in Alaska, as he tries to navigate between energy companies seeking greater oil and gas production and environmental activists who want him to shut down new offshore drilling in the fight against climate change. A five-year drilling plan approved in 2023 includes proposed offshore sales in 2025, 2027 and 2029. The three lease sales are the minimum number the Democratic administration could legally offer if it wants to continue expanding offshore wind development. Under the terms of a 2022 climate law, the government must offer at least 60 million acres of offshore oil and gas leases in any one-year period before it can offer offshore wind leases. Biden, whose decision to approve the huge Willow oil project in Alaska drew strong condemnation from environmental groups, has previously limited offshore drilling in other areas of Alaska and the Arctic Ocean. San Francisco prosecutors filed charges against a woman accused of shooting multiple people inside a building on the 800 block of Bryant Street. Rafe Swan/Getty Images San Francisco prosecutors charged a woman suspected of shooting multiple people on Jan. 2 following an alleged altercation at a Bryant Street housing site, officials said Monday. Monique Davis, 49, was expected to be arraigned Monday afternoon on charges of attempted murder, committing a crime while out on bail and other allegations. Prosecutors said in a statement that Davis allegedly entered an elevator at her residence on the 800 block of Bryant Street and immediately punched one of the victims multiple times in the face. Davis then allegedly returned to her room, retrieved a semiautomatic pistol and approached two other people, firing on them multiple times. One person was shot in the face, prosecutors said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Police arrested Davis later that night in the area of Hyde and Eddy streets, officials said. It was not immediately clear what preceded the reported altercation between Davis and the victims. Prosecutors said they planned to ask that Davis be held in jail as her case proceeds. I am grateful there was no loss of life in this tragic and senseless shooting, District Attorney Brooke Jenkins said in a statement. My office will now do everything we can to support the victims as we fight for justice in the courthouse. A murder probe has been launched in Brazil after tests found a New Year's Day meal which killed a young uncle and his nephew and niece was laced with rat poison - just days after a poisoned Christmas cake killed three members of another family. One-year-old Igno Davi da Silva lost his fight for life on Thursday, a day after his 18-year-old uncle Manoel died in an ambulance on his way to hospital after eating the fish dinner on January 1. Tragically a third victim, Igno's three-year-old sister Lauane, died in the early hours of this morning, according to local media reports. The toddlers' mother Francisca Maria and another of her children, aged four, remain in hospital in Parnaiba in the north-east Brazilian state of Piaui. Tests had discounted the presence of poison in donated fish the family had eaten but had shown leftover rice they had consumed contained a pesticide used to kill rats and other rodents, according to Brazilian weekly news programme Fantastico. Police chief Abimael Silva told the programme: 'Someone put the substance in the rice on the first day. 'We understand that there was an intention to put this substance in their food and we're going to start a murder investigation, ruling out natural or accidental death.' Police sources said they haven't ruled out the possibility a relative is responsible. However Maria dos Aflitos da Silva, the mother of tragic Manoel and the grandmother of the two youngsters still in hospital, said she believed someone with criminal intent broke into the family home and deliberately poisoned the food that was eaten. One-year-old Igno Davi da Silva lost his fight for life on Thursday, a day after the family ate the rice and fish meal Three-year-old Lauane da Silva died during the early hours of Monday at a hospital in Teresina, Brazil Manoel da Silva, 18, died in an ambulance on his way to hospital after eating the fish dinner on January 1 Police reportedly said that tests showed leftover rice the family had consumed contained a pesticide used to kill rats and other rodents Police in Brazil are investigating a new family food poisoning which has left two members of another family dead Disturbingly, the latest food poisoning tragedy is the second involving the family, with Francisca Maria having lost two older children in the space of just two months last year. Ulisses Gabriel da Silva, eight, died in November after nearly three months in hospital. His brother Joao Miguel da Silva, seven, had passed away on September 12. A neighbour named as Lucelia Maria da Conceicao Silva, 52, was accused of giving them nuts laced with insecticide for allegedly taking fruit from a tree in her back yard and charged with double homicide. She is currently believed to be in prison as part of her pre-trial custody arrangements. Detectives are not linking last year's crimes to the current criminal probe at this stage. News of the latest twist in the case came as detectives in nearly 2,500 miles south in the city of Torres revealed a woman had been held on suspicion of triple murder and attempted murder following a horror alleged Christmas cake poisoning there. Officers have not officially named her but she has been widely identified in local press as Deise Moura, the daughter-in-law of Zeli dos Anjos who made the traditional festive treat. Zeli's two sisters died as well as her niece and the 61-year-old is still in hospital fighting for her life. Her 10-year-old great nephew was also treated in hospital. Deise Moura was arrested yesterday and held by police at the home she shares with her husband Diego in the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul. Ulisses Gabriel da Silva, eight, lost his fight for life in November after nearly three months in hospital. His brother Joao Miguel da Silva, seven, (above) had died on September 12 Her mother-in-law Zeli Dos Anjos made the traditional festive treat which killed three members of her family at a Christmas party at Torres near Porto Alegre in southern Brazil on December 23. Mother-of-one Zeli is still in hospital fighting for her life, while her two sisters Maida da Silva, 58, and Neuza Dos Anjos, 65, both died along with Neuza's daughter Tatiana Dos Santos, 43. They lost their lives within hours of tucking into the cake, and traces of deadly arsenic were found in their bodies, authorities later revealed. The arrest is understood to have been sanctioned by police chiefs after tests on the cake confirmed 'high levels' of arsenic. Brazil's Ministry of Justice confirmed to MailOnline today that an arrest warrant had been issued for Deise 'on suspicion of committing triple homicide, with a futile motive and using poison, and three attempted homicides, with a double aggravation.' The ministry's statement added that 'the suspect will have a custody hearing on Monday afternoon.' A mother was found decapitated in her apartment and her head stuffed into a trash bag just one day after she sent an ominous text about her boyfriend to a friend. Heather Ann Bodden, 41, was found dead in her South Dakota home last Thursday afternoon by three concerned friends who had stopped by to check on her. But when the trio entered Bodden's apartment, they discovered what 'appeared to be a deceased headless person', according to court documents obtained by People. Police found Bodden's head nearby in a trash bag. Her boyfriend Craig Allen Nichols Jr., 32, was arrested in relation to the killing and charged with second-degree murder, first-degree manslaughter and two counts of contempt of court. One of the victim's friends told police that she had received a disturbing text message from Bodden on New Year's Day alleging that Nichols had threatened her with a weapon. Police arrested Nichols after discovering surveillance footage of him allegedly entering and exiting Bodden's home with trash bags on the day of the murder. He is currently being held at the Yankton County Jail on a $500,000 bond and is next due in court on Wednesday, KTIV reports. Heather Ann Bodden, 41, (pictured) was found decapitated at her Yankton, South Dakota apartment last week by three concerned friends who had stopped by to check on her Craig Allen Nichols Jr., 32, (pictured) was arrested in relation to the killing and charged with second-degree murder, first-degree manslaughter and two counts of contempt of court Bodden's friends decided to meet at her apartment in Yankton, South Dakota on January 2 this year after not hearing from her in over 24 hours. Yankton Police was called to the residence around 3.30pm after the trio entered the unit and found Bodden's severed body. Officers searched the apartment, but no suspect was found. Police did, however, find three weapons wrapped in a floor mat and a bag of clothing covered in blood, labelled as belonging to Nichols. Security camera footage captured from outside the unit also showed three men, including Nichols, arriving at Bodden's property at around 10pm on December 31 and leaving roughly an hour later. The two other men, who have only been referred to by their initials thus far CE and CR admitted to police that they had gone to the apartment to use narcotics with Bodden and Nichols. They both claimed Bodden was alive when they left the property. Bodden's friends decided to meet at her apartment in Yankton, South Dakota (pictured) on January 2 after not hearing from her in over 24 hours. One friend told police that she had received a disturbing text message from Bodden on New Year's Day alleging that Nichols had threatened her with a weapon Nichols, also a Yankton resident, was seen going in and out of the apartment several times between the hours of 2.50am and 6.45am. At one point he was allegedly seen carrying two garbage bags out of the building. Police went to Nichols' apartment to take him into custody, but the door was barricaded shut. Officers forced their way into his home, arrested Nichols and carried out a search of the unit, during they found shoes covered with a reddish-brown substance. The Yankton Police Department and Yankton County Sheriff's Office are still investigating the incident. Bodden's family has since opened up about her death, using a GoFundMe page to help raise money for her funeral expenses. Bodden, pictured, is survived by her daughter, parents, seven siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins and 'many more family and friends who loved her dearly' 'Heather was a bright spark in this world. Her friends and family loved her quick wit as she was always ready with a joke or snappy comeback,' the crowdfunding page states, adding that she 'loved her daughter to the ends of the earth'. She is survived by her daughter, parents, seven siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins and 'many more family and friends who loved her dearly'. As of Monday, the GoFundMe had already raised more than $6,500. A teenage straight-A student who has been found dead in the Nevada desert told her parents 'you don't have to worry about me any more' as she left their home for the last time one week ago. Jenneleah Hin, 17, went missing after leaving her home in the suburbs of Las Vegas on December 30, and police discovered her body on Sunday. Her cause of death is unknown, but cops said there 'does not appear to be signs of foul play'. Hin's haunting final words came as she left home in Henderson wearing a black hoodie and cargo pants, without her phone, backpack or water, according to Mark Speer, a commander with the Red Rock Search & Rescue team. The search team trawled the desert with police and Hin's distraught relatives for a week, until her corpse was found. Though a formal autopsy to confirm identification is pending, Henderson Police said the body 'matches the description' of Hin. On New Year's Eve, her distraught mother Jennifer Swanson appealed for help finding her daughter via Facebook, saying she had left home without her phone. 'Jenna please, we love you... We are not mad at you. Please just come home,' she wrote. Straight-A student Jennaleah Hin (pictured) has been found dead in the Nevada desert Hin, 17, told her parents 'you don't have to worry about me any more' as she left their home Hin went missing after leaving her home in Henderson, south-east Las Vegas on December 30, and police discovered her body in desert close to the suburb on Sunday The search team trawled the desert with police and Hin's distraught relatives for a week Hin's parents held a press conference with Henderson Police on Friday asking for help finding their daughter, who had never run away from home before and was a straight-A student at Foothill High School . 'Jenna, wherever you are or whoever you're with, I just want you to come home,' Swanson said during the conference. 'I want you safe. We love you so much.' 'I just want to say, 'I love you, and we just want you back,' Hin's stepfather Corey Swanson said at the presser. 'Our home is broken without you.' The teenager's aunt, Kass Hin, confirmed that her niece's body had been found on Sunday. 'Our family is heartbroken after hearing the news her body had been confirmed,' she wrote on Facebook. 'Our family will need your prayers during this difficult time.' Relatives shared several photographs of Hin during happier times, including on walks in the desert and dressed in a floor-length glittery red dress outside their home. Her parents were separated and she lived with her mother and stepfather in Horizon, Henderson, south-east Las Vegas. Hin's body was found in the desert close to Desert Sunflower Circle and Spanish Needle Street, less than three miles from her home. Justin Trudeau dramatically resigned as Canadian Prime Minister on Monday in remarks capping a spectacular fall from grace for the liberal standard-bearer just days before Donald Trump enters office. In emotional remarks Trudeau said: 'Last night over dinner I told my kids about the decision that I'm sharing with you today. I intend to resign as party leader, as Prime Minister.' With his government in turmoil, a clearly dejected Trudeau, 53, said Parliament would be suspended until March 24 while his Liberal Party chooses a new leader. The scion of one of Canada's most famous political families had become deeply unpopular in recent years over a range of issues including the soaring cost of food and housing, and surging immigration. Trump has repeatedly mocked the Canadian leader by suggesting his country would be better off as the 51st U.S. state. Trudeau's decision came after he faced weeks of pressure from party colleagues amid a bitter rift over how to handle relations with Trump in his second term. Trump announced on social media after his reelection a plan to introduce a 25 percent tariff on goods from Canada , which led Trudeau into a frenzy to try and clean-up his relationship with the U.S. president-elect before he is sworn into office later this month. The day after unveiling the idea, Trudeau immediately flew down to Mar-a-Lago to do damage control. During that meeting, reports emerged detailing how Trudeau pleaded with Trump not to impose the tariffs and claimed it would kill Canada's economy. Justin Trudeau resigned as Canada's Prime Minister during on Monday after weeks of tension within the Liberal Party Trudeau's party disagreed on how to handle incoming U.S. President Donald Trump after he announced a plan to implement a 25 percent tariff on Canada in order to apply pressure to help with a crackdown on the border crisis Trump at the meeting, suggested that the northern neighbors could become a U.S. state, and in following weeks mocked the Canadian leader by calling him Governor Trudeau. And after the anticipated announcement on Monday, the president-elect doubled-down, writing on Truth Social: 'Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State.' 'If Canada merged with the U.S., there would be no Tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be TOTALLY SECURE from the threat of the Russian and Chinese Ships that are constantly surrounding them,' he wrote on Truth Social. 'Together, what a great Nation it would be!!!' The reason Trump wants to impose tariffs on Canada is to pressure Ottawa to do more to secure the border and stop leaking illegal immigrants into the U.S. Trudeau's resignation comes the same day that Congress will move to certify the 2024 U.S. presidential election results as a victory for Trump and cement his forward movement to retaking office. Meanwhile, the Liberal Party in Canada set an emergency meeting for Wednesday to discuss how to handle the growing rift within the party, but Trudeau stepped aside before the gathering could take place. Trump took credit for the resignation, claiming he approach to dealing with Canada is what led to Trudeau's move on Monday. 'The United States can no longer suffer the massive Trade Deficits and Subsidies that Canada needs to stay afloat,' he wrote on Truth Social. 'Justin Trudeau knew this, and resigned.' During remarks at the Rideau Cottage residence in Ottawa, Canada on Monday morning, Trudeau made the announcement that he will step aside. Just before stepping out of his home, the papers with his speech printed on them flew off the lectern, indicating he delivered his remarks off the cuff. 'I intend to resign as Party Leader, as Prime Minister, after the Party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide, competitive process,' Trudeau announced in remarks delivered in English and then in French. Staunch Trump ally Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) credited the president-elect with 'liberating' Canada. 'After tyrannical Covid abuse, destroying free speech, importing military aged male 'refugees', and being Zelensky's biggest cheerleader, Trudeau RESIGNS!' she lauded on X. Before opening up to questions from reporters, Trudeau noted he's a 'fighter' and suggested how difficult it was for him to make the decision to step aside. 'I will always be motivated by what is in the best interest of Canadians, and the fact is, despite best efforts to work through it, Parliament has been paralyzed for months,' Trudeau said, adding he couldn't run a successful reelection while also fighting within the party. He also revealed that his one regret is that elections were not changed in Canada to allow for voters to select their ranked decision for leadership, rather than just voting for their top decision. 'If I have one regret, particularly as we approach this election well, probably many regrets that I will think of,' Trudeau said. 'But I do wish we'd been able to change the way we elect our governments in this country so that people could simply choose a second choice, or a third choice on the same ballot.' Justin Trudeau and wife Sophie announced in August 2023 their separation after 18 years of marriage. Pictured: The former couple attended the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla on May 6, 2023 Trudeau's then-wife and three kids dressed in lavish traditional Indian costumes during a 2018 trip to New Delhi (pictured) Trudeau faced scandal when an image of him appearing in blackface at 2001 party reemerged Trudeau will remain in power until his party selects a new leader, which they will need to do before general elections in the fall, which polls indicate conservatives will win with Pierre Poilievre as their leader. The father-of-three served as Prime Minister since November 2015 and resided at Rideau Cottage with his family. He and wife Sophie announced in August 2023 their separation. He disclosed that he told his kids about his decision at dinner in Sunday night. Trudeau's tenure now ends at just over eight years in the PM's office. And while he was preparing to make his historic announcement on Monday, his ex-wife was posting to Instagram about a skiing trip in Canada's Gatineau Park. Amid reports of Trudeau's impending resignation this week, the Canadian Dollar began surging after a massive, record-breaking dip last month. Trump told conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt on Monday morning, before Trudeau's resignation became official, that it would be 'very good' if Poilievre took over as Canadian PM later this year. 'Our views would be more aligned, certainly,' Trump said, but added: 'We don't need anything from Canada.' Poilievre credited Trump with Trudeau's resignation and said he and others displeased with the leadership are 'relieved' by the announcement on Monday. But he released a video on X urging Canadians to not be duped by Trudeau's side-step and to continue pushing for a new leadership party in the elections later this year. 'Every Liberal MP and Leadership contender supported EVERYTHING Trudeau did for 9 years, and now they want to trick voters by swapping in another Liberal face to keep ripping off Canadians for another 4 years, just like Justin,' he wrote in a post along with a nearly four-minute video clip. Trudeau's resignation came after Canada's Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland stepped down in mid-December. On her way out the door, Freeland cited her differences with Trudeau on how to approach Trump's presidency and his proposal for tariffs. Canada is preparing for general elections at the end of October this year. Once a highly popular political leader, Trudeau has fallen from grace in recent years especially amid Trump's rise to prominence. Only one if five Canadians now feel their country is heading in the right direction with Trudeau at the helm. And even Trudeau couldn't downplay the importance of secure borders after he announced in October that Canada would sharply cut the number of new immigrants allowed into the country. He admitted that the influx of permanent citizens over the last four years a period where President Joe Biden was also leading the U.S. in record-breaking illegal immigration was applying too much pressure on the housing market. This comes after Trudeau often bragged about how Canada was better at welcoming immigrants and newcomers than other western countries. 'Even Justin Trudeau wants to close Canada's borders,' President-elect Trump noted. In December, just a month after winning a second term, Trump announced his new idea for tariffs. He unveiled the plan to impose a 25 percent tax on goods from Mexico and Canada in retribution for declining to help more with the fentanyl and migration crisis. And for China, he wants an additional 10 percent tariff on top of other tariffs. Trump denied in a Monday morning post that his plan will be pared back, as noted in one report on his proposal. 'The story in the Washington Post, quoting so-called anonymous sources, which don't exist, incorrectly states that my tariff policy will be pared back. That is wrong,' Trump posted to Truth Social. 'The Washington Post knows it's wrong. It's just another example of Fake News.' This is the moment oxygen masks dropped ahead of an emergency landing in Paris after the loss of cabin pressure on an Air France flight. Footage shows oxygen masks being deployed as the Airbus A318 encountered a technical issue shortly after the flight took off from Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris at around 9.30pm on Friday. The plane, which was bound for Barcelona, Spain, experienced a cabin pressurisation malfunction 17 minutes into the flight. The crew declared an emergency situation at around 9.45pm and the pilot was forced to return to Paris for an emergency landing, with the plane quickly descending to a safe altitude of 8,000 feet. The 18-year-old aircraft, registered F-GUGR, landed safely at Charles de Gaulle Airport at 10.12pm. No injuries were reported among the crew members or passengers. Flight AF1448 and the return flight AF1449 were cancelled so that technical inspections could be carried out on the plane. Affected passengers were assisted by Air France teams at the airport. They ended up taking alternative flights to their destination. Footage shows oxygen masks being deployed as Air France flight AF1448 quickly descended after the Airbus A318 encountered a technical issue shortly after the flight took off from Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris at around 9.30pm on Friday This is the moment oxygen masks dropped ahead of an emergency landing in Paris after the loss of cabin pressure on an Air France flight The airline apologised for the inconvenience caused. An Air France spokesperson stated: 'We can confirm that the crew of flight AF1448 on 3rd January 2005, from Paris CDG to Barcelona BCN operated by Airbus 318, decided to return to its base after 17 minutes of flight due to cabin pressure malfunction. 'Air France crews are trained regularly to manage this type of situation in accordance with the manufacturer's procedures.' They said the oxygen masks were activated by crew members because 'the automatic mask drop altitude had not yet been reached'. The airline added: 'Air France regrets the inconvenience due to this situation and reminds that the safety of its customers and crew members is its absolute imperative.' An investigation into the cause of the uncontrolled decompression issue is ongoing. The Washington Post is set to be hit with some serious layoffs that will affect 'dozens of employees,' according to reports. The news, first reported by Status, comes amid an exodus of top talent and financial problems for the newspaper. One source said the layoffs will only impact the paper's 'business division', and another detailed that they 'will be deep.' Both said they will occur sometime this week as part of an ongoing bid to cut costs and contemplate potential replacements before the new Trump administration. In September the Post laid off a quarter of its workforce from ArcXP, its separate software unit, months after implementing buyouts in a bid to prevent layoffs. That month, the Post's new publisher and CEO William Lewis issued a statement to staffers in the DC office detailing how dire the publication's financial situation was, while promising, 'We are going to turn this thing around.' Pointing out how the paper's audience 'has halved in recent years' in the process, the former Financial Times reporter told his staff, 'People are not reading your stuff.' A series of exits followed, at a time where Washington is the biggest story in the world. The Washington Post is reported set to be hit with some serious layoffs that will affect 'dozens of employees'. Pictured, The Washington Post Building in Washington, DC The paper owned by Jeff Bezos self-admittedly lost $177 million in 2023, as it has lost more than half of its audience. The billionaire is seen onstage at an event for the Post's rival, The New York Times, last month Those problems were worsened when Bezos, 60, broke tradition and blocked The Posts planned endorsement of Kamala Harris before the November election. The move led to more than 250,000 readers immediately canceling their subscriptions, after which Bezos penned an op-ed defending the decision. In it, the world's second-richest man cited growing 'distrust' of media, as Elon Musk, the world's wealthiest, propped up the now president-elect. 'What presidential endorsements actually do is create a perception of bias,' he wrote at the time, after decades of the Post promoting a Democrat. 'A perception of non-independence. Ending them is a principled decision, and it's the right one.' Three days before, Lewis released a memo about the absence of an endorsement - a first since 1988. Aside from spurring backlash, the move, made in October, paved the way for some poaching post-election, as outlets in DC are in a battle for scoops and talent. Well-known political reporters Michael Scherer and Ashley Parker were recently hired by The Atlantic and managing editor Matea Gold has gone to The New York Times. William Lewis, the Post's new CEO, has ruffled feathers since taking the helm at the paper a year ago. He did not mince words while speaking to staff in November about its poor financial situation, telling them, 'People are not reading your stuff' One source said the layoffs will only impact the paper's 'business division', and another detailed that they 'will be deep.' Both said they will occur sometime this week, as part of a bid to cut costs and contemplate potential replacements ahead of the inauguration of Donald Trump. The paper recently lost a great deal of talent after moves made by both Bezos and the paper's new boss Her exit came after she quietly passed over for the top editor role in favor of Matt Murray, a decision that has not yet been announced by Lewis, insiders said. This comes after three prominent opinions section writers - David Hoffman, Molly Roberts and Robert Kagan - quit after the Bezos-endorsement decision. The paper's White House Correspondent, Tyler Pager, has also left, announcing last week that he would be rejoining the New York Times. Opinion editor Amanda Katz and her deputy Charles Lane have also gone. The exits and the people making them have many questioning whether both Lewis and Bezos have flubbed by alienating people manning the paper, which over the years has become increasingly progressive. Insiders told Puck late last month how Lewis may not be under the impression that these exits are all that damning, as he steers the Post toward a broader, nonpartisan future. In an January interview with Semafor, he did call Schere 'his favorite reporter'. A few months later, he confirmed what many had suspected - the paper had lost an astronomical $77million last year. The parade of exits since the election has not helped matters, with Status last week revealing that star Trump reporter Josh Dawsey is too parting way with the publication, in favor of the Wall Street Journal. Insiders told journalist Oliver Darcy that Dawsey will start there next month, as a political investigations reporter. The paper has also lost more than half of its audience, with 250,000 ditching their subscriptions after Bezos refused to endorse a Democratic candidate for the election. The Billionaire is seen with Lauren Sanchez at Trump's Mar-a-Lago mansion a few months later The fresh round of firings, expected this week, come as insiders said Lewis is likely not too focused on retaining talent, and is instead honing on the financial leg of the paper's ongoing transformation ahead of the incoming administration Those familiar with the matter added how top brass at the paper tried to dissuade Dawsey from leaving, but he had already made up his mind. 'He is very unlikely to be the last out the door, either,' Darcy's report said. Leigh Ann Caldwell, the publication's chief Washington correspondent, has been poached by Puck as well, Axios reported Monday - as the Post's Washington talent continues to diminish. DailyMail.com has approached the Post for comment. Heartbreaking courtroom footage shows the moment a hysterical mother confronted her boyfriend for allegedly killing her special-needs daughter just after Christmas. Addison Carr, 4, of Simpsonville, South Carolina, died on December 26, 2024 at Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital. Little Addison was admitted to the hospital on December 22 and staff members requested that police investigate the situation the following day. Her cause of death was ruled blunt force trauma and homicide, according to the coroner's office. Her mother's boyfriend, Tyler Ternberg, was arrested and charged with homicide by child abuse, according to Fox Carolina. Ternberg, 28, was taken into custody on Thursday after investigators alleged he caused 'non-accidental trauma' to the disabled child while he was watching her. During a Friday court hearing - during which the accused killer was denied bond - Addison's devastated mother, Ashley Caris, scolded Ternberg. 'You didn't have to hurt my baby,' she said through tears. 'She was my entire world. Addison Carr, 4, of Simpsonville, South Carolina, died on December 26, 2024 after being rushed to Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital three days prior Addison's devastated mother, Ashley Caris, confronted the man accused of killing her special needs daughter Tyler Ternberg was arrested and charged with homicide by child abuse on Thursday 'Why would you do something like this to her? I hate you, Tyler. I hate you so much.' Addison's father, Stanley Carr, told Fox Carolina that he was 'sad and mad at the same time, it comes and goes.' 'I dont know how somebody could do this to somebody like Addy,' he said. Carr told the outlet that Addison had a lack of oxygen at birth and had a feeding tube and limited movement. 'My biggest thing is just remembering that smile from her all the time.' Carr added. 'She was just a sweetheart and a joy to be around.' Since Ternberg's arrest, Carr has been persistent and vocal about getting 'justice' for his child. He has posted a series of Facebook messages about the gut-wrenching situation. In a post from Friday morning before the bond hearing, he addressed Addison directly, writing: 'Daddy is gonna make sure all involved will be charged for you Addison I love you and miss you will all my heart babygirl.' Addison's tragic death came about a week after a sixth person was charged in connection to the death of a seven-year-old disabled boy who died weighing just seven pounds. On Christmas Day in 2023, Deonte Atwell was found horrifically malnourished and with gaping bedsore wounds at his Fort Lauderdale, Florida home. He should have been receiving constant care due to his thoracic spina bifida and hydrocephalus conditions, but was instead brutally neglected. His mother, Michelle Doe, 37, and his brother, Tyreck Irvin, 21, were arrested and charged with first-degree murder and child abuse. Addison's father, Stanley Carr, said he is determined to get justice for his daughter The boy's grandfather, James Graham, 70, and later his uncle, Jeremy Graham, were charged with aggravated manslaughter and child abuse. The owner of the home nursing company Mirlande Moltimer Ameda, 47, and Atwell's caregiver, Cassandre Lassegue, 33 are also facing charges. Police discovered the child after responding to a report of a medical emergency. In court, prosecutors said the boy was painfully thin and had bones sticking out of his skin when he was discovered. Fort Lauderdale Police Det. Jacqueline Sanchez estimated that he could have been suffering for six months to a year. A married prison officer who was filmed having sex with an inmate in a 'shocking breach of the public's trust' was today jailed for 15 months. Linda De Sousa Abreu, who turned 31 last month, appeared in court for sentencing today having previously admitted misconduct after an X-rated clip in a jail cell at Wandsworth Prison went viral on social media. The footage showed a prison officer in uniform having sex with inmate Linton Weirich, 36, as her discarded radio constantly crackles with messages from colleagues. De Sousa Abreu, who is originally from Brazil, is a married swinger and shares an eight-year-old daughter with her husband. She was arrested at Heathrow Airport while travelling with her father but denied trying to flee the country. Wearing a grey pin-striped blazer over a white shirt, De Sousa Abreu was sentenced to 15 months in prison at Isleworth Crown Court, but will likely serve less than a third of the time behind bars. Judge Martin Edmunds, KC, the Recorder of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, said De Sousa Abreu compromised her role as a prison officer, undermined discipline and put officers at increased risk. De Sousa Abreu admitted to having sex with the same prisoner on another occasion, while she was also caught on her own body camera giving oral sex to him on the same day the original sex tape was filmed. Weirich was jailed for four-and-a-half years at Kingston Crown Court last June for burglary after he stole 65,000 worth of valuables from a safe in a flat in Kensington. De Sousa Abreu, who claimed she has 'found faith in God' since the incident, also has an OnlyFans account where she shares explicit content. Linda De Sousa Abreu (pictured in a mug shot) was sentenced to 15 months in prison at Isleworth Crown Court, but will likely serve less than a third of the time behind bars De Sousa Abreu (pictured) had sex with an inmate on video in HMP Wandsworth The x-rated clip shows De Sousa Abreu dressed in full uniform and performing a sex act on Weirich, who has a pregnant girlfriend, at the Category A jail Her account reads: 'I am a happily married sexy latina who wants to share hot content with you. Experience my real life, real love, real sex and real orgasms! 'We believe in authenticity, all our content will be genuine and we'll never fake it because we want you to enjoy watching it as much as we'll enjoy making it!' Putting her behind bars, the judge told her: 'On 25th June 2024 you were on duty in uniform when you went to a cell with the prisoner. You took off your prison issue radio and put it to one side. 'Your set of keys was at risk of being taken. 'A second prisoner was present and had a camera, doubtless on a phone which must have been an unauthorised phone. He also appears to have been smoking cannabis. Rather than challenge his possession of a phone or cannabis you consented to him recording what was happening. 'The recording lasts some four-and-a-half minutes during which you gave the prisoner oral sex, then vaginal intercourse in a number of positions, before concluding by giving more oral sex. You participated with evident enthusiasm.' Eloise Marshall KC, prosecuting, said De Sousa Abreu had asked two matters to be 'taken into consideration' by the judge when he passes sentence. 'The first one is one previous occasion of sexual intercourse with the same prisoner (Weirich).' The second incident took place on the same date, June 25 last year, and also relates to Weirich. Ms Marshall said it 'relates to oral sex' and was 'partially recorded on her own prison-issued body-worn camera.' Ms Marshall also told the court that De Sousa Abreu was stopped at the departure gate of Heathrow's Terminal 5 while travelling with her father when she was arrested. The court heard that night officer Anthony Belongan received a call from De Sousa Abreu in which she said: 'I am not coming back to work, I am never returning to Wandsworth. I am at the airport. I have a family emergency.' She said her husband would return her things. De Sousa Abreu was born in Venezuela, has a Portuguese passport and has one previous conviction with 'no relevance' to this matter dating back to 2014, the court heard. In a prepared statement written by De Sousa Abreu following her arrest she claimed was 'terrified for her own safety' prior to the offences. She said: 'I thought if I didn't go along with it, they (the prisoners) would have both raped me and there was no guard on the landing. 'All the prisoners were out on the third landing, no-one was banged up, it was very loud and everyone was out. 'I was too scared to reach for my whistle and blow it - no-one would have heard, they would have seriously assaulted me if I'd tried to get the whistle. 'At all times I was acting under duress.' Ms Marshall said this account had since been proved to be 'entirely false' and that De Sousa Abreu had 'never made any complaints to the prison about any incidents involving her.' She continued: 'The crown say there is premeditation and clearly some planning. 'She had to make sure she would be on the wing alone with him in order to do this, she also arranged for (the second prisoner) to be present to keep watch while it went on. 'We say the act was undoubtedly deliberate and intentional in terms of planning.(it was) an intentional breach of her duties as a prison officer. 'She had the necessary training and knew what her duties were and was aware she had to maintain a professional relationship with the prisoners. 'She has undermined the authority of all prison staff - she specifically and severely undermined the positive effect that a female officer can have in male environment in a male prison, and how a female officer may be perceived. '(She also) undermined the trust of prisoners and the integrity of the staff.' De Sousa Abreu was a prison officer at HMP Wandsworth (pictured) when the explicit footage was recorded - her friend alleged she was 'coerced' into doing so by prisoners Linton Weirich (pictured with his partner) is the inmate who was filmed having sex with a female guard in a cell Abreu was close to tears as Judge Emunds told her: 'The sentence on you is one of 15 months imprisonment. Of that you will serve half in custody, unless the prison authorities decide to release you earlier. The remainder you will serve on licence. 'You have been subject to a qualifying curfew for 190 days and that entitles you to a credit of 95 days against that sentence.' In sentencing remarks, the judge told her: 'From what I know about you, you were certainly not naive about the media or social media. It must have been obvious that the recording would be shown around and shared, at least amongst prisoners at Wandsworth where it would do the most harm. 'Whether you intended it or not, the fact is that the video went viral, and caused great harm. Many offenders do not intend the harm that their offending causes, but they nevertheless bear responsibility for it. 'You have asked for two other offences to be taken into consideration, and I shall do so. They show that this offence was not isolated. It was part of repeated behaviour. It is not clear when the earliest offence occurred so I shall assume the repetition was within a few days. The consequence of the recording going viral, a result that you did not intend but which was certainly a consequence of your offence, has been that prison officers have faced heckling and harassment. They have been confronted with sexualised images falsely suggesting that your conduct is typical. 'Children of your fellow female prison officers have been teased as to what their mothers may do at work. It is inevitable that the damage for which you were responsible at Wandsworth has spread, to some degree, through the prison estate. 'It will impact on the reputation of the prison service and, with that, the prospects of recruiting and retaining staff. It causes anxiety among those close to vulnerable prisoners who worry more about the environment in which prisoners are held. That recording is still out there and will doubtless circulate indefinitely. 'You are not responsible for the wider problems of prisons, but you have added to them. The level of harm is high, indeed very high.' The judge added: 'You had started work at Wandsworth in January 2024 some five months before this offending. You completed basic training in April. 'That training includes counter corruption training, which emphasised the need to maintain professional relationships with prisoners and avoid becoming compromised by them.' HMP Wandsworth governor Andrew Davy said in a statement read to the court: 'It has taken many years for female staff to be respected and treated professionally in a male dominated environment. 'The action of this defendant has undone years of positive and rewarding prisoner interactions in less than a day. 'It has been reported back from female staff that [prisoners] were openly coming on to them and seeing them as fair game. Officers who went home were met by children who said they were teased at school because their mothers worked at Wandsworth. 'Staff have been heckled and harassed when they leave work and staff resigning because they are embarrassed to work there. 'The actual act meant that the prions involved had full access to security keys and radio and potential loss of order and control, placing all those in the prison at risk. 'Since the event they have worked hard to rebuild confidence and trust of prisoner but social media has been unforgiving and constantly reminded of the video.' Marsha Silburn, head of security at Wandsworth Prison since 2019, said: 'Prison officers and other staff will routinely encounter vulnerable prisoners it requires high standard of professional conducted and their aim is to protect and to prevent wrongdoing. 'There are expectations of prion officers and they must always adhere to these professional standards. They must make sure their contact with prions and former prisoners are not abused 'This relationship meant that it not only placed this offender at risk but also the wider prion community they could exploit the offender and the wider community who knew about the relationship might also try to coerce the defendant. 'Furthermore inappropriate relationships represent a failure to protect those in our care that may be vulnerable. 'A corrupt prison culture can undermine a prisoner's confidence in their ability to maintain order. Impacting on good order and discipline in the prison having under taken the training and failing to maintain a high standard mean there is a loss of confidence in the public domain and this has had a sever ripple effect on the prison. De Sousa Abreu came under fire in September last year after she was spotted mocking her ankle bracelet at a London party (pictured) Weirich, the inmate in the video, was jailed for four and a half years at Kingston Crown Court last June for burglary after he stole 65,000 worth of valuables from a safe in a flat in Kensington A close friend of the prison officer (pictured) previously told MailOnline she was having 'marriage problems' when she filmed the x-rated clip with the inmate 'HMS Wandsworth was ridiculed in national press. 'Female officer are invaluable and this action of one person has set back the prison community by years and brought sadness and shame to hard working staff across the country this may have issue with recruitment and retention.' Rajiv Menon, KC, defending, said Abreu has 'taken full responsibility for her actions' while also noting the 'conditions she was working in at Wandsworth prison. 'She accepts full responsibility for engaging consensually in sexual activity with the prisoners and accepts full responsibility for allowing that encounter to be filmed - no ifs and no buts.' Mr Menon referred to De Sousa Abreu's statement which said: 'I fully accept responsibility for my impulsive behaviour and deeply regret the breach of trust I committed whilst serving in my role.' He asked for a suspended sentence for the shamed jail guard and referred to a psychiatric report conducted by 'former lead psychiatrist' at Wandsworth Prison. The report stated she suffers from 'severe personality disorder' that 'explains her offending and which, in combination with her ADHD, makes her a 'highly impulsive and reckless person who tends to act without considering the consequences.' '(The doctor) then concludes that Ms Abreu is a highly emotional, damaged individual who over the years has increasingly used sex as a means to feel positive emotions. 'We submit on her behalf that the mental disorder should in all fairness significantly reduce her culpability in this case.' He also said that his client 'should not be punished for the fact that this is a failing prison' and denied suggestions she had tried to flee the jurisdiction. 'Her entire life was literally crumbling around her, she made the stupid decision to just leave the country for a few weeks, she hoped until the media storm had cleared', he said. De Sousa Abreu's sister Andreina previously told MailOnline that her sister was now 'suffering the consequences', after she warned her not to mix her lifestyle with work. She said De Sousa Abreu and her husband Nathan were stars of Channel 4's Open House: The Great Sex Experiment in which couples pushed the boundaries of the relationships at a luxury country escape, which aired in 2023. But close friend Hayley claimed De Sousa Abreu had been going through a difficult time when the illegal act behind bars was carried out. Hayley, who only wanted to give her first name, claimed prisoners knew De Sousa Abreu's husband's name and about her OnlyFans. She claimed the alleged 'pressure' and 'coercion' had a knock on effect on De Sousa Abreu's marriage around the time the scandalous footage was recorded. In the video, which sparked a police investigation, Weirich's cellmate is smoking while recording on his phone. He can be heard saying: 'Guys we've made history, this is what I'm telling you.' Grinning the prisoner filming adds: 'This is how we roll in Wandsworth.' He also tells his cellmate having sex: 'You know you're gangster innit!' Footage from the cell also shows piles of clothes heaped over a bunk bed. De Sousa Abreu came under fire in September last year after she was spotted mocking her ankle bracelet at a London party. The former prison guard was seen partying at a daytime club and quoted the TikTok trend 'very mindful, very cutesy, very demure' while pointing to her electronic tag. A friend of De Sousa Abreu shared the video of her stroking her tag as she put her leg on the table. She is seen lifting up her cream dress and saying: 'Very mindful, very cutesy, very demure.' The phrase became popular on TikTok after it was first used by Joolie Lebron, who made a funny video about workplace beauty etiquette. A source told The Sun: 'It's disgusting she has no shame. She is laughing her head off and looks happy she has a tag to show off.' De Sousa Abreu, of Fulham, southwest London, admitted one charge of misconduct in public office when she first appeared at Isleworth Crown Court in July. The charge, which as a common law offence, carries the maximum of life imprisonment. Prosecutor Eloise Marshall, KC, told the court a police interview recorded with the inmate in the video 'contains information that will be subject of further investigation.' De Sousa Abreu's lawyer Gayathri Yogarajah earlier described her as a 'young mother' and 'a person of good character'. Senior Crown Prosecutor Tetteh Turkson earlier said: 'This was a shocking breach of the public's trust. De Sousa was clearly an enthusiastic participant who wrongly thought she would avoid responsibility. 'The CPS recognises there is no excuse for any prison officer who conducts themselves in such a manner, and we will never hesitate to prosecute those who abuse their position of power. 'After working closely with the Metropolitan Police to build the strongest possible case, De Sousa had no option but accept she was guilty. She will now rightly face the consequences of her actions.' A Prison Service spokesman earlier said: 'Staff corruption is not tolerated and the former prison officer allegedly featured in this video has been reported to the police.' The charge against De Sousa Abreu states that, between 26 and 28 June, while acting as a public officer, namely an HMP Wandsworth prison officer, 'you wilfully and without reasonable excuse or justification misconducted yourself in a way which amounted to an abuse of the public's trust in the office holder by engaging in a sexual act with a prisoner in a prison cell'. The medals of a hero Second World War bomber pilot whose wife was dragged into the Duchess of Argyll's divorce case are tipped to sell for up to 5,000. Wing Commander Clive Beadon was awarded gongs including the hugely prestigious Distinguished Flying Cross during three tours of operations between 1940 and 1945. In the last, he flew 500 miles with his plane on fire while trying to put out the flames with flasks of tea. Having survived that ordeal, in 1965 he married Jane Whigham, whose stepdaughter the Duchess of Argyll was engulfed in scandal two years earlier. The aristocrat was accused by her husband, Ian Campbell, of taking 88 lovers. The Duke revealed what came to be known as the 'Headless Man' photograph, which showed the naked Duchess taking part in a sex act with a lover whose head was not visible. Jane, who had been married to the Duchess's father, George, had gotten involved in the case after offering to act as a go-between for her stepdaughter and the Duke. But the saga took a dramatic turn when she was accused by the Duchess, who was two years older than her, of adultery with the Duke. The medals of hero Second World War bomber pilot Clive Beadon, whose wife was dragged into the Duchess of Argyll's divorce case, are tipped to sell for up to 5,000. Above: Wing Commander Beadon and his new wife Jane on their wedding day, 1965 Margaret Campbell, better known as the Duchess of Argyll (pictured above in 1934), was accused by her husband, Ian Campbell, of taking 88 lovers The Duchess finally dropped her counter petition for divorce on the day it was due to be heard. Jane subsequently sued her stepdaughter for libel and the older woman was forced to pay her 25,000. She said of her involvement in the 1963 case: 'I had married her father and she wanted me out of the way.' However, Jane later admitted that she and the Duke did have an affair, but only after the Duchess claimed she did. She said: 'After it was all over, after George died and Ian and Margaret were divorced - yes, we did have an affair. He asked me to marry him but I refused.' Instead, she married Wing Commander Beadon and the pair stayed together until his death in 1996. She passed away in 1999. Wing Commander Beadon was dive-bombing the Burma-Siam railway from just 150ft when his RAF Liberator suffered a direct shell-hit on January 1, 1945. It killed the gunner and started a blaze in the rear turret. Wing Commander Beadon's medal group consists of the Distinguished Flying Cross; 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Burma Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; Coronation 1953; Venezuela, 2nd Class Cross of Las Fuerzas Aereas Wing Commander Beadon was dive-bombing the Burma-Siam railway from just 150ft when his RAF Liberator suffered a direct shell-hit on January 1, 1945 Wing Commander Beadon and his crewmates grabbed a fire extinguisher and even poured tea and water from their flasks to dampen the inferno. The airmen transferred fuel from the bomb bay tanks, located in the middle of the bomber, to reduce the danger if the fire spread. Burning material was thrown from the back of the aircraft to prevent the fire engulfing the rest of it. Against the odds, Wing Commander Beadon flew 500 miles over the Bay of Bengal before the fire stopped and 500 more miles to return to their Indian base. Having used up all their liquid fighting the fire, the crew were exhausted and severely dehydrated following their 1,000-mile journey. They made it home after a five-hour ordeal described as 'one of the most hazardous journeys experienced by Eastern Air Command Liberators'. Wing Commander Beadon, who completed three tours of operations with the Royal Air Force's 215 Squadron, was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross for his 'undoubted courage and devotion to duty'. His medal group is now going under the hammer at London-based auctioneers Noonans, of Mayfair. The Duchess with her husband, Ian Campbell, the 11th Duke of Argyll, on their wedding day in 1951 Margaret Campbell, Duchess of Argyll outside the law courts in the Strand, 1960 Mark Quayle, medal specialist at Noonans, said: 'Undoubtedly brave, and indeed a character, Beadon seemed to have a nose for both danger and intrigue. 'This was put to good use during the course of the Second World War, and by Churchill in the immediate aftermath.' Wing Commander Beadon was born in Coonor, India, in 1919 and trained at the Imperial Service College, Windsor, Berks. He was awarded a scholarship to Sandhurst but instead chose to go to RAF College, Cranwell, Lincolnshire. He was posted to India in late 1942 to fly Wellingtons and Liberators with 215 Squadron against the Japanese in Burma. The pilot carried out daring daylight attacks on Rangoon, Bangkok and Mbulmein, while also supply-dropping to the 14th Army during the monsoon period of 1944. Wing Commander Beadon, who transferred to the Operations Staff of HQ Air Command, South East Asia, received his DFC in August 1945. His DFC citation reads: 'He was recently awarded a Command Mention for bringing back his badly damaged aircraft a distance of over 1000 miles after attacking successfully at extremely low level, trains on the Bangkok-Chiengmei railway. 'He has led the Squadron on several occasions with outstanding success.' The pilot returned to Britain in 1946 and served with the Air Ministry before Winston Churchill selected him for a top secret 1953 mission to deport King 'Freddie' of Buganda. He kept his engines running while the recently-arrested monarch was dragged screaming across the tarmac of RAF Abingdon in Oxfordshire and bundled into the back of the plane with a blanket over his head. Wing Commander Beadon later told a friend the 'cloak and dagger operation was like something out of a James Bond film'. The Duchess of Argyll with Ian Campbell, her second husband, in April 1952 Margaret, Duchess of Argyll, seen in her car when she was a debutante in 1930 He was British Air Attache in Caracas, Venezuela, from 1954 to 1957 and in the administrative staff at RAF Colherne before becoming a Ministry of Defence specialist in 1962 and later the Assistant Air Attache in Paris. Wing Commander Beadon retired from the RAF in 1962 and became vice-president of the British Association of Dowsers, pinpointing large deposits of oil in Africa and South America. He also claimed to have found up to 75million gallons of oil in Windsor Great Park. He died aged 77 in 1996. Wing Commander Beadon's medal group consists of the Distinguished Flying Cross; 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Burma Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; Coronation 1953; Venezuela, 2nd Class Cross of Las Fuerzas Aereas. It has been consigned by a private collector. The sale takes place on January 15. Sir Keir Starmer today defended delaying plans for social care reform until 2028 - despite admitting there's an 'urgent' need for change. The PM was quizzed on the issue after Labour last week announced steps towards creating a National Care Service, as pledged in the party's general election manifesto. An independent commission, led by Baroness Louise Casey, will begin in April and will recommend medium-term reforms for social care in mid-2026. But the commission's recommendations for longer-term reforms are not expected to come until 2028. Health groups and charities have hit out at another long wait for Government proposals on overhauling the 'crumbling' sector, following years of inaction. They warned that coming forward with new proposals in the year before the next scheduled general election, in 2029, would likely see an even longer delay. Taking questions after a speech on NHS reform this morning, Sir Keir was challenged about having said before July's general election there is an 'urgent need' for social care reform. Sir Keir Starmer today defended delaying plans for social care reform until 2028 - despite admitting there's an 'urgent' need for change An independent commission, led by Baroness Louise Casey, will begin in April. But recommendations for longer-term reforms are not expected to come until 2028 Asked if he would bring forward the 2028 date for Baroness Casey's final proposals, the PM replied: 'Social care is such an important issue in its own right, and obviously it's also linked to the question of what happens in our hospitals, because it's got a huge impact. 'We've got to get it right, which is why we put Louise Casey in charge of this, who is renowned for getting to the bottom of things, coming out with really good, strong recommendations. 'I want to build a consensus. I genuinely want cross-party consensus, because if this is going to work and make a material difference, it's got to last through different parliaments that will take time to get this right, but we're determined to do it. 'We've also announced it will be in stages, because what I don't want to do is precisely what you're challenging me on, which is to say, 'well, we'll have to wait until the final outcome of Louise's report', which is why it'll be in two stages, with the first stage next year, which is what can we do now to improve the system as it is now? 'Some of that we've already started with fair pay agreements, etc, for staff. That really matters, by the way, because more staff leave social care to come to the NHS than to go anywhere else. 'The reason they do that is because of the poor pay and conditions, and because there's no progression, and then they want to come to come to the NHS so they can progress their career. 'So, some of it we've started, there'll be the interim or the first stage of the report next year, which means we can get on with some of the change that we need. 'Because you're right, it's urgent, but it is right that we do it properly and take time, and build the consensus that we need.' Speaking in the House of Commons this afternoon, Health Secretary Wes Streeting also defended the pace of Labour's social care reforms. He told MPs: 'The truth is whether it was Gordon Brown and Andy Burnham in 2010 or Theresa May in 2017, we can see how the extent of party political wrangling and rancour and sometimes opportunism has sunk well-meaning attempts to grasp the nettle of reform. 'And on the question of pace, just to reassure people, in the first six months, we have already legislated for fair pay agreements, delivered the biggest expansion of care allowance since the 1970s, injected immediately funding into the disabled facilities grant 86million and another 86million to follow from April, 711million in total over the next year as well as the increased spending power for local government in the budget of 880 million for social care specifically.' Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, has warned that social care reforms might not be delivered until the early 2030s under Labour's plans. She said: 'The most sensitive issue of how to fund the social care needs of our rapidly ageing population is not set to be addressed until the second phase of the commission and this is a major concern. 'Partly because today's older people do not have time on their side but also because who knows what the state of the world, our politics or our economy will be by then? 'The risk is that future events prevent the progress we desperately need to see and the more long and drawn out the commission is, the greater the risk will be. 'Even if all goes well the reality is that it will be the early 2030s before older people and their families get substantial benefit from a transformed approach to social care.' The Oakland City Council on Monday elected District 6 Council Member Kevin Jenkins as its new president. He will serve as the citys interim mayor until an April 15 special election to replace ousted mayor Sheng Thao. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle The Oakland City Council on Monday elected Kevin Jenkins, a member representing part of East Oakland, as its new president, meaning he will serve as the citys interim mayor until an April 15 special election to replace ousted mayor Sheng Thao. The decision comes after voters recalled Thao less than two years into her first term and as the city grapples with a budget crisis and continuing crime problems. The council, which includes three new members sworn in Monday, chose Jenkins, who has served one term, as its new head for the next two years. The City Charter requires the council president to act as interim mayor if the mayor cannot serve. Advertisement Article continues below this ad While Jenkins serves in that role, the acting president of the City Council will be Noel Gallo, who represents District 5 and was reelected in November. In comments Monday, Jenkins said the city has to get back to a place where were doing our basic services well, where were getting our unsheltered folks housed, where were filling our potholes and keeping fire stations open. Outgoing District 6 Council Member, Council President and Interim Mayor Nikki Fortunato Bas is recognized during a meeting held at Oakland City Hall. She was to be sworn in as a county supervisor on Tuesday. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle We all have to work together. There are some serious issues in the city, he said. Jenkins replaces former council President Nikki Fortunato Bas, who is leaving the City Council after winning election to the Alameda County Board of Supervisors. She was to be sworn into her new position on Tuesday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad As council president, Bas served as the acting mayor from Dec. 17, when Thao left office, until Jan. 6. She has been on the council since 2019 and became its president in 2020. My tenure as your District 2 Councilmember has been one of the hardest periods in our lifetime, Bas wrote in an email to constituents. Despite the monumental challenges of the pandemic, an economic downturn, growing inequality and the issues these challenges brought forth, we laid the foundation for transformative change and a stronger Oakland that will continue to move forward. The City Council on Monday also voted to name Rebecca Kaplan, who served as the at-large council member until giving up her seat this year, as a caretaker for Bas District 2 seat. Voters will elect a permanent council member for the seat in the April special election. Rebecca Kaplan, former City Council member at large, is sworn in as interim District 2 representative at Oakland City Hall on Monday. The seat formerly occupied by Nikki Fortunato Bas will be permanently filled in the April 15 election. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle Jenkins steps into his new role as the city grapples with a budget crisis that will eviscerate basic services. Oakland is grappling with a $130 million deficit in its current fiscal year and has proposed closing fire stations, slashing the police department overtime budget and laying off some city staff. Two fire stations closed earlier this month for six months, saving close to $5 million. Four more stations could close next month. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Firefighters rallied outside City Hall on Monday to protest the station closures and urged council members to reopen the two stations that were just closed. A third station that was shuttered in 2022 due to construction will remain closed. Oakland responded to nearly 80,000 calls for service last year and they dont happen one at a time, Seth Olyer, the president of the firefighters union, told the Chronicle. One of the basic tenets of the government is providing basic fire and police services. This is a way to really risk Oaklanders lives. Newly elected Oakland District 7 Council Member Ken Houston addresses the crowd during a City Council meeting. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle Among the three new and two returning council members sworn in on Monday was Zac Unger, the former president of the firefighters union, who will take over from Dan Kalb representing North Oakland. Unger recognized city workers in his remarks. The dedication, resilience and creativity shown by our Oakland workforce is something we can never take for granted, Unger said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Rowena Brown, a former state legislative director for Assembly Member Mia Bonta, became Oaklands at-large council member, taking over from Kaplan, who had held the seat since 2008. And Ken Houston, the founder and director of Oaklands Beautification Council, a nonprofit organization that addresses graffiti and illegal dumping, stepped into the District 7 seat, which represents part of East Oakland, from Treva Reid. Houston said Monday that he has resigned from the Beautification Council to avoid conflicts of interest. Oakland City Council District 5 representative Noel Gallo being voted in as City Council president pro tempore on Jan. 6. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle Carroll Fife was reelected to represent West Oakland, and Noel Gallo was reelected to represent Fruitvale. Gallo was chosen Monday as president pro tempore of the City Council, meaning he will serve as its interim president while the actual president, Jenkins, serves as interim mayor. Fife said she wants everyone to work together even if they disagree. We have to move forward with full transparency, integrity and honor, she said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's decision to step down as party leader has sparked feverish speculation about who will replace him. Trudeau, 53, resigned on Monday, kickstarting a contest for who will next lead the governing Liberal Party, which may itself lose power to the Conservatives in an election that must be held by late October. In Canada's political system, the prime minister is not elected directly by voters, but chosen by the members of the majority party in parliament currently the left-leaning Liberals. Trudeau said on Monday he will stay on until his party 'selects its next leader through a robust nationwide, competitive process.' 'It has become clear to me that if I'm having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option' in the next election, he added. Likely successors therefore include everyone from Trudeau's ex-finance chief Chrystia Freeland, to Mark Carney, a banking boss, and Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the opposition Conservatives. The political contest comes as US president-elect Donald Trump returns to the White House, threatening big tariffs on Canada and even suggesting that it could become America's 51st state. Trudeau's departure after nine years' in office would leave the party without a permanent head at a time when polls show the Liberals will badly lose to the Conservatives in the 2025 election. A growing number of Liberal parliamentarians, alarmed by a series of gloomy polls, had publicly urged Trudeau to quit. Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his then-ally Chrystia Freeland Chrystia Freeland sensationally quit Trudeau's cabinet last month The shock resignation has spurred calls for a quick election to put in place a stable government to deal with the incoming Trump administration. DailyMail.com takes a look at the contenders for Canada's top job. Chrystia Freeland The former Finance Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of Canada was among Truedua's key political allies until she recently resigned from the cabinet of her embattled and unpopular boss. She pushed back against Trudeau's proposals for more spending, accusing him in a letter of 'political gimmicks' rather than focusing on what was best for the country of 40 million people. Freeland, a former journalist, is a huge figure in Canadian politics, and has been hailed as one of the few people who could save the Liberals from a massive looming electoral defeat. The married mom-of-three from Alberta speaks five languages and studied at Harvard University and the University of Oxford. Pierre Poilievre Pierre Poilievre has led the Conservatives since 2022 Poilievre has led the Conservatives since 2022 and is a key candidate to become prime minister if voters boot the Liberals out of office in this year's election. He campaigns for more oil and gas production and against Trudeau's botched immigration policy, which led to hundreds of thousands of arrivals, straining an already overheated housing market. The Conservatives currently hold a 21-point lead over the Liberals. Online prediction websites give Poilievre even better odds at becoming the country's leader this year. Poilievre says he could increase Canada's exports to the US and strike a 'great deal' with Trump, who has vowed to use punishing tariffs on Ottawa as a way to reduce a trade deficit. Speaking with right-wing Canadian influencer Jordan Peterson this month, Poilievre said he would quickly greenlight new oil refineries, liquefied natural gas plants, nuclear facilities and hydropower schemes. In the interview, he said Trump 'negotiates very aggressively, and he likes to win, but in the end, he doesn't appear to have a problem if his counterparty also wins.' 'And so I think that we can get a great deal that will make both countries safer, richer, and stronger,' he added. Dominic LeBlanc Dominic LeBlanc, 57, is a close ally of Trudeau and has held a number of key cabinet roles Seasoned Liberal politician Dominic LeBlanc is a close ally of Trudeau and was brought in as Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs to replace Freeland, who abruptly resigned last month. The 57-year-old is a close friend and ally of Trudeau and has been in a number of key cabinet roles since the prime minister swept to power in 2015. According to reports, Trudeau has already discussed with LeBlanc whether he would be willing to step in as interim leader and prime minister. But that plan was deemed unworkable if LeBlanc plans to run for the leadership, a source said. Mark Carney Thanks to his background in global banking, Carney is seen as an asset for a Canada Carney, the former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor, is positioning himself to run in a potential Liberal party leadership battle should Trudeau resign. He's long been touted as a potential leader for Canada. In recent days, he's reportedly fielded dozens of calls to Liberal politicians who view him as a potential replacement for Trudeau. His background in banking and finance is seen as an asset for a country that could soon be fighting a tariff war with Trump's America. The 59-year-old studied at Oxford University and Harvard University and previously worked at Goldman Sachs. Carney serves in a number of philanthropic and business roles, including as chair of Brookfield Asset Management and Bloomberg Inc. Christy Clark Former British Colombia premier Clark wants an end to Canada's 'fearmongering and divisiveness' The former premier of British Colombia is also understood to be eyeing Trudeau's vacant seat. Clark, 58, has said she's open to being part of the conversation about Canada's future. The liberal positioned herself to the right of Trudeau's progressivism and would focus on helping regular Canadians access decent healthcare and housing. 'Canadians are tired of politicians who think that fearmongering and divisiveness will win an election and gain power,' she recently told Radio Canada. 'They also understand that polarized political views are standing in the way of the solutions we need.' Ministers urged Elon Musk to get off social media today as brutal clashes with Keir Starmer escalated. The PM's Cabinet allies said the American billionaire needs an online 'detox', and even hinted at a boycott of his X social media site. Meanwhile, the spat over Sir Keir's handling of grooming gangs is at risk of widening after Mr Musk asked followers whether the US should 'liberate' Britain from its 'tyrannical government'. The Lib Dems have called for Washington's ambassador to be summoned to explain why one of Donald Trump's closest allies is mooting the overthrow of the British government. Mr Musk also posted on X, which he owns, suggesting that safeguarding minister Jess Phillips 'deserves to be in prison' for denying requests for the Home Office to lead a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham and called her a 'rape genocide apologist'. Sir Keir mounted a robust defence as he took questions after laying out NHS waiting list plans this morning. He said 'child sexual exploitation is utterly sickening' and victims had been 'let down' - but insisted he had tackled the issues 'head on' as director of public prosecutions. The premier accused opposition politicians of 'amplifying what the far-Right is saying' after falling to act 'for 14 long years'. He insisted he would fight the 'poison' from extremists, arguing that those who are 'spreading lies and misinformation... are not interested in victims, they are interested in themselves'. Sir Keir said he was making a 'general point' and did not want to 'individualise' the row to Mr Musk. He suggested that until recently the Tories would have 'called out' attacks on Home Office minister Jess Phillips, saying a 'line had been crossed' and she had suffered threats. But Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch complained that the PM was using 'smear tactics', swiping that he should be 'soul-searching' about how such a scandal came about. The Tories will attempt to amend the Children's Wellbeing Bill on Wednesday to require a full national inquiry into grooming gangs. Keir Starmer hit back at Elon Musk in the increasingly bitter spat over his record on grooming gang cases Health Secretary Wes Streeting (left) urged Mr Musk to have a 'social media detox' - and said he would back the PM if he decided to boycott X The tech billionaire, a key ally of returning US President Donald Trump, has launch a blizzard of attacks on Sir Keir over the festive period Mr Musk posted on his X social media site on Monday morning that Sir Keir should be 'in prison', and asked followers whether America should 'liberate' Britain from its 'tyrannical government' The Tesla and Space X boss has been launching a blizzard of attacks on Sir Keir over the festive period. Mr Musk has claimed the premier was 'complicit' in allowing the gangs' activities to continue unchecked. This morning he posted on his X social media site that Sir Keir should be in 'prison', and continued his torrent of criticism after the press conference. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is due to make a statement to MPs on child sexual exploitation this afternoon as the Commons returns from its Christmas break. Speaking in Surrey, the PM said he had been responsible for authorising the first prosecution of an Asian grooming gang, and changed the 'whole approach' of the CPS. He stressed that his record in the role was 'not secret' and everything was a matter of public record. Sir Keir added: 'Jess Phillips does not need me or anybody else to speak on her behalf, but when the poison of the far-Right leads to serious threats to Jess Phillips and others, then in my book, a line has been crossed. 'I enjoy the cut and thrust of politics, the robust debate that we must have, but that's got to be based on facts and truth, not on lies, not on those who are so desperate for attention that they're prepared to debase themselves and their country. 'So this Government will get on with the job of protecting victims, including child sexual abuse, mandatory reporting, accelerating the processes. But what I won't tolerate is this discussion, debate based on lies without calling it out. 'What I won't tolerate is politicians jumping on the bandwagon simply to get attention, when those politicians sat in government for 14 long years, tweeting, talking, but not doing anything about it. Now, so desperate for attention that they're amplifying what the far-Right is saying.' Sir Keir also lashed out at people supporting jailed far-Right activist Tommy Robinson, as Mr Musk has. 'Those who are cheerleading Tommy Robinson are not interested in justice. They're supporting a man who went to prison for nearly collapsing a grooming case, a gang grooming case,' the PM said. 'These are people who are trying to get some vicarious thrill from street violence that people like Tommy Robinson promote. 'Those attacking Jess Phillips, who I am proud to call a colleague and a friend, are not protecting victims. Jess Phillips has done a thousand times more than they've even dreamt about when it comes to protecting victims of sexual abuse throughout her entire career.' He went on: 'We've seen this playbook many times, whipping up of intimidation and threats of violence, hoping that the media will amplify it.' Health Secretary Wes Streeting urged Mr Musk to have a 'social media detox' - and said he would back the PM if he decided to boycott X. He told the BBC's World At One: 'I think he should probably have a new year's resolution for a social media detox. 'We are spending far too much time worrying about what someone in America has got to say about something they know little about here in the UK. 'What I do think is shameful is that, whereas we would have seen universal outcry across the political spectrum on this sort of rhetoric and this sort of attack on a good colleague like Jess Phillips instead we have seen a combination of silent indifference from the more decent Conservatives and, worse still, active complicity from other Conservatives.' Asked whether the Government should leave X, Mr Streeting said: 'We want to get our message across on our terms to the public where they are.' He added: 'So long as the Prime Minister, the leader of my party, is happy for us to continue posting on X, I will continue to do so and the moment he takes a decision otherwise I would absolutely go along with that.' Meanwhile, Lib Dem Ed Davey said: 'People have had enough of Elon Musk interfering with our country's democracy when he clearly knows nothing about Britain. It's time to summon the US ambassador to ask why an incoming US official is suggesting the UK government should be overthrown. 'This dangerous and irresponsible rhetoric is further proof that the UK can't rely on the Trump administration, and it's in our national interest to rebuild trade and security ties with our allies in Europe.' Ms Badenoch said: 'Starmer is applying Labour smear tactics from 20 years ago and thinks they will work today. 'He is a man of the past with no answers for today's problems, let alone tomorrow's. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch complained the PM was using 'smear tactics', swiping that he should be 'soul-searching' about how such a scandal came about 'That such a huge scandal could occur should prompt soul-searching not ranting that those of us who care about it are 'the far-Right'.' Sir Keir has faced questions in recent days over a 2009 decision by the Crown Prosecution Service to drop a major case against an alleged grooming gang in Rochdale. The chairwoman of a previous inquiry that uncovered wide-ranging failings in how institutions protected children has said she is not seeking a new probe - but urged ministers to implement recommendations from her final report more than two years ago. 'Our mission is not to call for new inquiries but to advocate for the full implementation of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse's recommendations. A Child Protection Authority is critical to this process,' said Professor Alexis Jay. Writing in yesterday's Mail on Sunday, Ms Badenoch said an inquiry should 'identify the bodies that failed as well as the individuals who facilitated or ignored these crimes so they can be removed from their roles'. Nigel Farage also backed an inquiry and said it was fair for Mr Musk to question what role, if any, Sir Keir had in decisions not to pursue serious allegations in Rochdale in 2009. Supporters point out that as DPP Sir Keir brought in a national network of specialist prosecutors for child abuse and sexual exploitation to oversee convictions against grooming gangs and changed Crown Prosecution Service guidance to focus on the credibility of allegations rather than whether victims would make good witnesses. Shadow home secretary Chris Philp said it was 'disgraceful that Keir Starmer is smearing people who are concerned about rape gangs as jumping on a 'far right' bandwagon, rather than facing up to his own record on this and reconsidering his refusal as prime minister to hold a full national inquiry'. 'As Kemi Badenoch said yesterday, a new inquiry must go beyond previous inquiries and focus specifically on the institutional and political failings that enabled the systematic and barbaric attacks to take place,' he said. 'If Keir Starmer can't see why people across the UK are keen to have these questions answered and proper accountability for the victims of this heinous scandal, it just shows how out of touch he really is.' Nigel Farage has also had a falling out with Mr Musk, after speculation about a huge donation to Reform UK Mr Musk criticised Jess Phillips for denying requests for the Home Office to lead a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham. He took aim at the minister after she wrote to Oldham council saying it must follow other towns such as Rotherham and Telford and commission its own inquiry into historical abuse of children. Labour is now facing calls for a new national inquiry from Reform UK and the Conservatives, the latter of which had refused a request for a public inquiry into events in Oldham while in government. Sir Keir's Government is against launching another nationwide probe and has said it is working to implement recommendations from Professor Jay's inquiry, which concluded in 2022. That inquiry looked into abuse by organised groups following multiple convictions of sexual offences against children across the UK between 2010-2014, including in Rotherham, Cornwall, Derbyshire, Rochdale and Bristol. Putin's blundering troops were caught on footage driving their tank straight into a ditch before Ukrainian drones opened fire on the sitting duck war machine. The dramatic clip, released by the Ukrainian army, shows the massive tank storming down a muddy track at speed while firing into the distance. Within just a few moments, the armoured vehicle is seen coming to a grinding halt as it rolls forward into a ditch in the ground. The war machine in the footage is reportedly a T-90 - a late Soviet-era main battle tank which costs up to 4million per vehicle. As the combat machine remains stuck nose-down in the earth, it quickly becomes a sitting duck and smoke can be seen emerging from its structure as the Ukrainians launch their attack on it. Drone footage shows the Ukrainians targeting the helpless war vehicle as it fires rounds of ammunition in an attempt to leave it a battered and destroyed mess. The embarrassing blunder comes as the war-torn country pushes on with its surprise counter-offensive in the Kursk region of Russia. Just last week, Ukraine used British Storm Shadow missiles to eliminate two top Kremlin officers in a dramatic double strike across the Russian border. The footage showed what is believed to be a T-90 Russian tank driving down a muddy track before it was fired at by Ukrainian drones The tank embarrassingly got stuck in a ditch leaving it vulnerable to Ukrainian hits Ukrainian drones were seen in footage targeting the helpless tank The tank was continuously blasted by Ukrainian drones as the vehicle became a sitting duck after getting trapped The strike on a key Russian command post in the Kursk region by half a dozen Ukrainian-deployed precision Storm Shadow missiles 'killed eight and wounded 22' in a major blow to tyrant President Vladimir Putin. Chaotic footage showed the strike on Lgov targeting a building used by Russian serviceman, and yesterday it was revealed that the lives of two colonels were lost to the blast. Lieutenant-Colonel Valery Tereshchenko, chief of communications of the elite 76th Pskov Airborne Division, was in a command post in which eight senior officers died. In the same bunker was Colonel Pavel Maletsky, 39, commander of 656th separate engineer-sapper battalion. Although the strike occurred on December 30, the high-ranking casualties were only disclosed on Sunday as details of their funerals emerged. Originally the attack was believed to have been by US-supplied HIMARS missiles. But later evidence indicates it was Storm Shadow, the type of missile supplied by Britain to the Ukrainians. A December 30 Ukrainian strike using British Storm Shadow missiles 'killed eight and wounded 22' including two top Kremlin officials Originally the attack was believed to have been by US-supplied HIMARS missiles. But later evidence indicates it was Storm Shadow, the type of missile supplied by Britain to the Ukrainians The deaths of the two colonels come amid reports from both sides that Ukraine is staging an offensive in Kursk region, where Putin has positioned thousands of North Korean fighters to grab back territory controlled by Kyiv since an August 2024 incursion. Ukrainian troops are moving from Sudzha towards Bolshoye Soldatskoye seeking to expand their land grab on Putin's territory, exploiting frozen ground to push forwards. The scale of the advance was not immediately clear. 'The Ukrainian Armed Forces are actively using heavy equipment,' said one report. 'The offensive is associated with the frozen ground, which is favourable for equipment.' Today President Zelensky said that Russian and North Korean troops had taken heavy losses. 'In battles yesterday and today near just one village, Makhnovka, in the Kursk region, the Russian army lost up to a battalion of North Korean infantry soldiers and Russian paratroopers,' he said. 'This is significant,' he added. Britain's Storm Shadow missiles are capable of dodging air defences - making them a nightmare attack weapon for their enemy After just two weeks of Koreans on the front line, Zelenksy said that 3,000 of them had been killed or wounded - almost a third of the estimated 11,000 who were shipped over. In a statement on Telegram, Russia's defence ministry said: 'At around 9am Moscow time, in order to stop the offensive by the Russian troops in the Kursk direction, the enemy launched a counter-attack by an assault detachment consisting of two tanks, one counter-obstacle vehicle, and 12 armoured fighting vehicles.' Russia also recently suffered the loss of an Mi-28 helicopter in an unexplained crash in Voronezh region. It is the fifth destroyed or damaged military helicopter in the past week, and the second Mi-28. Three Mi-8 helicopters were hit by strikes from Ukrainian missile-firing Magura V5 Ukrainian sea drones in an historic first for modern warfare. One of the Mi-8 helicopters managed to return to its base and land despite suffering damage. The other two crashed with one report saying 16 people were killed. The earlier Russian Mi-28 was lost in a friendly fire incident. On Saturday night, Russia attacked Ukraine with 103 drones of which 61 were shot down and 42 'lost'. Russia said 61 Ukrainian drones were destroyed in five regions. More than 30 drinkers at Britain's highest pub are said to be in 'high spirits' after the Arctic blast which swept across the UK this weekend left them trapped on the premises. Customers who had trekked to Tan Hill Inn in North Yorkshire - which is 528 metres (1,732 ft) above sea level - were today still holed up in the world famous boozer following the heavy snowfall. Despite amber warnings of snow, 32 guests attended the pub on Saturday night and have remained cut off ever since, along with six staff who were on duty. It comes as temperatures fell to -11.1C in some parts and the Met Office and UK Health Security Agency issued amber 'danger to life' alerts ahead of the blizzards. But those locked in have played cards and board games to keep themselves entertained, while a young boy performed improvised dance routines to the group he was travelling with. The pub, which also operates seven guest rooms, made global headlines in 2021 when 50 people got stuck in the pub after watching an Oasis tribute band. Manager David Rowell, 43, said: 'Staff are a little tired, but other than that it's all right. The staff that are currently here, this is day seven for them working here. This [Monday] will be their third day stuck. 'I've managed to avoid snow-ins in the past, but it's caught up with us eventually, so it's my turn this time. Australian tourists Paul Wright (right) and his family family enjoy drinks by candle light during their enforced stay at the Tan Hill Inn in North Yorkshire Temperatures fell to -11.1C in some parts and the Met Office and UK Health Security Agency issued amber 'danger to life' alerts ahead of the blizzards Customers who had trekked to Tan Hill Inn in North Yorkshire - which is 528 metres (1,732 ft) above sea level - were today still holed up in the world famous boozer 'We have three real fires, and obviously we run off a generator so the heating is on "constant" at the moment.' The pub's electric power comes from a generator and there is enough food for about a month - and around two week's worth of beer. Australian tourists Paul and Naomi Wright were expecting to be watching Harry Potter on London's West End by now as part of their three-week holiday visiting family in the UK. Instead, they are still stuck in the inn and remain uncertain they'll make their flight home on Saturday. Paul, from Katherine in the Northern Territory, said he had never seen real snow before his holiday - with temperatures at home at around 30C. The 52-year-old, who is travelling with his wife, his 22-year-old son, sister-in-law, four-year-old nephew, and two friends, said: 'I think it's hilarious, I love it. 'I've seen generated snow in snow fields in Australia, but nothing like this in regards to white-outs. 'Driving through Scotland and York, the amount of snow we've seen covering everything is unbelievable, we can't believe how white everything is. Paul and Naomi Wright (pictured) were expecting to be watching Harry Potter on London's West End by now as part of their three-week holiday visiting family in the UK. Those locked in have played cards and board games to keep entertained Paul (pictured with Tan Hill Inn manager Nicole), from Katherine in the Northern Territory, said he had never seen real snow before his holiday - with temperatures at home at around 30C Snow covers the guest domes at the Tan Hill Inn 'There's a lovely group of people here, the people that run this place are so warm and welcoming and friendly. 'The poor staff that are here were all meant to go out the other day, they've had to stay because they're snowed in, and these guys are working from like five-thirty and six in the morning through to 11 at night. 'I'm sitting at the window at the moment watching one of them shovel snow off the steps so people can walk outside.' Journalist Robyn Vinter, 35, is also stuck after making the journey from Leeds on Saturday afternoon. She said: 'The roads were clear when we arrived, a bit icy, and they're steep, kind of winding roads, that require concentration at the best of the time. 'They were a bit icy, but now they're completely covered in snow.' Robyn, who had been staying in an eight-person bunk room, added: 'Everyone's in fairly high spirits, people have got things to get to this week, so everyone's hoping we get out maybe tomorrow. 'Today might be a possibility because there's another snow plough today and there might be a gritter. Despite amber warnings of snow, 32 guests attended the pub on Saturday night and have remained cut off ever since, along with six staff who were on duty (pictured: Some of the snowed-in visitors at the Tan Hill Inn ventured outside the pub on Sunday) The pub, which also operates seven guest rooms, made global headlines in 2021 when 50 people got stuck in the pub after watching an Oasis tribute band 'I don't think I'm going to leave today because I'm in a Ford Fiesta, even though I have put all-season tyres on. 'We've had such a laugh, like last night and the night before, getting to know people. Everyone is very laid back, it's very fun and very chill. 'The staff are so lovely, I cannot begin to tell you how wonderful the staff has been, they're clearly knackered. 'They often stay over in the winter because none of them live nearby, they've been here some of them since New Year's Eve, I think they're pretty knackered by this point.' Donald Trump gave a sneak peak of the massive bill he wants to launch right out of the gate once he is sworn into office in two weeks. But his ambitious goal could face an uphill climb in a deeply divided Congress as Republicans hold slim majorities in both chambers. The 78-year-old president-elect teased in a social media post that he wants the legislation to fold in a series of his priorities including border security and extending the tax cuts he introduced back in 2017. 'We must Secure our Border, Unleash American Energy, and Renew the Trump Tax Cuts, which were the largest in History, but we will make it even better,' he wrote. 'NO TAX ON TIPS. IT WILL ALL BE MADE UP WITH TARIFFS, AND MUCH MORE, FROM COUNTRIES THAT HAVE TAKEN ADVANTAGE OF THE U.S. FOR YEARS,' he continued. The 'no tax on tips' provision was a promise he made on the campaign trail. The president-elect will begin his second term in the White House on January 20 after the GOP-controlled 119th Congress convened on Friday. But Republicans have very little margin for error in their rowdy conference as they set out to achieve Trump's agenda. They hold just a three-seat majority in the Senate and will temporarily have an almost non-existent majority in the House once the president-elect takes office. 'Republicans must unite, and quickly deliver these Historic Victories for the American People. Get smart, tough, and send the Bill to my desk to sign as soon as possible,' Trump wrote on Truth Social. President-elect Donald Trump is calling for a massive GOP bill that includes priorities from border security to extending tax cuts. Republicans are aiming to move forward with the effort by using the so-called budget reconciliation process Trump and GOP leaders want to pass their legislation by using the wonky so-called budget reconciliation process. It would allow them to pass a bill with a simple majorities in both chambers and avoid the usual 60 votes necessary in the Senate to avoid a filibuster. But some GOP lawmakers also see a lone massive bill as Republicans' best chance to pass priorities with such a slim margin in the House. A first glimpse of just how challenging it will be for the GOP to overcome infighting was exhibited on Friday with the reelection of House Speaker Mike Johnson. He could only afford to lose one vote and be elected speaker as Democrats remained united in opposition. Two Republican lawmakers had to flip their votes to secure his victory after initially voting against him. The U.S. Capitol was blanketed in snow on Monday as lawmakers returned to certify the 2024 election, the first priority as Trump prepares to return to office in two weeks Republicans had been considering two separate budget reconciliation bills last month after securing victories in both chambers. Conservative Republicans let by the chair of the House Freedom Caucus sent a letter in mid-December to GOP congressional leadership demanding that the first priority be a reconciliation bill that focuses on border security. They argued the second reconciliation bill should focus on addressing the expiring tax cuts from the tax law passed under President Trump in 2017. Multiple provisions from that law are set to expire at the start of 2026. But some Republicans in recent weeks have raised issue with the idea of pulling off two separate gigantic bills in one year. While Trump said he wants one massive bill, he did leave the door open for two bills on Monday. 'While I favor one bill, I also want to get everything passed, and you know, there are some people that don't necessarily agree with it,' Trump told conservative radio talk show host Hugh Hewitt. House Republicans gathered in Maryland on Saturday morning to discuss their path forward and jumpstart efforts where Johnson indicated Trump's preference for one piece of legislation. Johnson over the weekend also laid out the expected timeline. He said they aim to move forward with the reconciliation process in early February, but the entire effort could take several months. Some GOP lawmakers have signaled that the passage of any government spending must be offset by other spending cuts as the U.S. faces a ballooning national debt. The fight among Republicans in Congress could easily boil down to what exactly they are willing to give up in order to enact their agenda if they can even reach offsets some are likely to demand. Throwing a wrench in the entire process is the mounting pressure Congress faces to raise the debt limit to avoid the government defaulting on its bills. While Republicans raised the debt limit three times during Trump's first term, some conservative lawmakers have signaled they are unwilling to support GOP action on the debt limit unless there are deep spending cuts. Trump's post on using tariffs to pay for ending taxes on tips could also lead to intraparty strife. During the campaign season, some Senate Republicans including the new Senate Majority Leader John Thune balked over Trump's widespread plan to enact tariffs. They warned of retaliatory tariffs, which could be slapped on American products in response, as economists also signal the cost of tariffs would be passed down to American consumers. Using reconciliation to pass legislation has been used with some regularity in recent years as political divisions have eroded bipartisanship in Congress. President Biden and Democrats used the budget reconciliation process to pass the American Rescue Plan in 2021 and the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022. However, when they tried to include immigration reform provisions to include a legal path for residency for millions of immigrants in the reconciliation process, the effort was rejected by the Senate parliamentarian, the nonpartisan arbiter of Senate rules, in late 2021. Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy was facing up to 10 years in prison when he appeared in court today accused of arranging a 'corruption pact' with the late Libyan leader Colonel Gaddafi. Sarkozy, 69, was notably suntanned when he took his place in a Paris dock on Monday afternoon, having just returned from a holiday in the Seychelles with his third wife, Carla Bruni, the 57-year-old former supermodel. She was not in court, despite facing charges of her own in connection with the case. Prosecutors alleged that Sarkozy accepted some 42million from Gaddafi to fund his successful election campaign in 2007. In return, Sarkozy pledged to rehabilitate oil-rich Libya's image after it was blamed for terrorist atrocities such as the Lockerbie Bombing and the shooting dead of a female police officer in London. Jean-Francois Bohnert, head of France's National Financial Prosecutor's Office (PNF) outlined details of 'one of the most serious cases that the Republic has ever known.' Mr Bohnert said a 10 year investigation had led to Sarkozy appearing in the 32nd chamber of the Paris Criminal Court. 'The corruption pact was designed to improve relations with Libya,' said Mr Bohnert. Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy was facing up to 10 years in prison when he appeared in court today accused of arranging a 'corruption pact' with the late Libyan leader Colonel Gaddafi French President Nicolas Sarkozy, left, greets Libyan leader Col. Moammar Gadhafi upon his arrival at the Elysee Palace, in Paris, on December 10, 2007 Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy leaves during a break in a hearing on the first day of his trial He insisted the prosecution 'was not a political one' and that Sarkozy 'had not been found guilty in advance'. Wearing a black tie, white shirt and blue business suit, Sarkozy paused to shake hands with uniformed police officers guarding the court. He went on trial with 12 other defendants, at least two of whom have been on the run since the publication of a 577-page summary report last year. The charges, which all deny, are: 'Corruption, receiving stolen public funds, illegal campaign financing, and criminal association'. Sarkozy was last month definitively convicted of bribing a judge in a separate case, meaning he was likely to be wearing an electronic tag under his trousers on his right ankle. The PNF alleges that Sarkozy first requested financing during a visit to Libya when he was France's Interior Minister in 2005. This led to 'the corruption pact' between the politician and Gaddafi which saw suitcases full of cash being delivered by middlemen, it is alleged. The Gaddafi money is said to have been laundered through bank accounts in Panama and Switzerland. Nicolas Sarkozy and former Libyan dictator Moamer Kadhafi pictured during the signature of 10 billion euros of trade contracts between the two countries, at the Elysee Palace in Paris on December 10, 2007 Carla Bruni (left, pictured with her husband in June 2024) is accused of being part of a 4million campaign dubbed 'Operation Save Sarko' a complex and illegal plan to try to keep her husband out of jail Within a few months of his election in 2007, Sarkozy invited Gaddafi to Paris for a state visit and praised him as a great friend and 'Brother Leader'. This was while Libya was still being viewed as a pariah state because of the downing of PanAm Flight 103, with the loss of 270 lives, over Lockerbie, Scotland, in 2008. The assassination of WPC Yvonne Fletcher outside Libya's London Embassy four years earlier was also still causing outrage, especially as no one was ever brought to justice for it. Gaffafi's head of military security and brother-in-law, Abdallah Senoussi, had also been found guilty in absentia of an attack of a French DC-10 plane which left 170 dead. The financing case was aided by the Mediapart investigative news site, which in 2012 published a document signed by Libya's intelligence chief which apparently proved the equivalent of 42million had been paid to Sarkozy. Sarkozy insisted that the contract was a fake, but it was later ruled it can be used as evidence. The former head of state's former ministers Claude Gueant and Eric Woerth have also been charged in relation to the allegations, and are in the dock. It was in 2011 that RAF and French Air Force jets led the mass bombing campaign that ended with Gaddafi being hacked to death by a mob. Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy exits the courtroom at the Paris courthouse in Paris, on January 6, 2025, during the opening hearing of his trial Libyan leader Moammar Gaddafi, right, and then French President Nicolas Sarkozy during the National anthems at the Bab Azizia Palace in Tripoli on July 25, 2007 David Cameron was British Prime Minister at the time, and visited Libya with Sarkozy. There have been claims that Sarkozy wanted his old friend and ally dead because of his potential to produce incriminating evidence. Sarkozy has already become France's first ex-president to be tried for alleged crimes carried out in office. Within a few days of Sarkozy losing his presidential immunity from prosecution in 2012, fraud squad detectives raided the Paris home he shares with his third wife, the former supermodel Carla Bruni. In 2021, Sarkozy was found guilty of illegally funding his campaign for re-election and faced prison time. The verdict handed down at the Paris Correctional Court followed a five-week trial during which prosecutors said the politician was guilty of fiddling the books during his unsuccessful 2012 bid to become head of state. It followed Sarkozy already being given three years in jail for bribing a judge a conviction that was confirmed on appeal last month, as Sarkozy was told that he could serve his prison sentence while wearing an electronic tag. Carla Bruni is accused of being part of a 4million campaign dubbed 'Operation Save Sarko' a complex and illegal plan to try to keep her husband out of jail. She has been charged with a range of corruption offences, including 'witness tampering in an organised gang', and could be imprisoned for a up to 10 years if found guilty in a separate trial. Like her husband, Ms Bruni denies any wrongdoing She has been charged with a range of corruption offences, including 'witness tampering in an organised gang', and could be imprisoned for a up to 10 years if found guilty in a separate trial. Like her husband, Ms Bruni denies any wrongdoing. Sarkozy's conservative predecessor as President of France, the late Jacques Chirac, received a two-year suspended sentence in 2011 for corruption, but this related to his time as Mayor of Paris. The last French head of state to go to a prison cell was Marshall Philippe Petain, the wartime Nazi collaborator. The Gaddafi trial is listed for three months, and is likely to end in early April. A furious Donald Trump is vowing to 'un-ban' President Joe Biden's 11th hour move to wall off millions of acres off the coast of the U.S. from oil and gas extraction. 'It's ridiculous. I'll un-ban it immediately,' Trump said on conservative host Hugh Hewitt's show Monday after the White House announced the ban two weeks before the end of Biden's term. 'I will unban it. I have the right to unban it immediately. What's he doing? Why is he doing it?' Trump said. The law is not so black and white on that point and Trump may in fact need an act of Congress in order to undo Biden's action, the latest in a string of moves undermine Trump on the way out the door, including giving citizenship medals to Liz Cheney and the father of former Sen. Mitt Romney, who voted to impeach Trump. Biden's move protects areas all along the East Coast and the West Coast, as well as the Eastern Gulf of Mexico and Alaska's Northern Bering Sea from oil drilling and natural gas leases. Biden invoked the federal Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, on a day he is also declaring a new national monument to protect thousands of acres in California. It doesn't impact drilling in the western Gulf, or the escalating oil boom on land which has made the U.S. the world's top oil producer. 'I have the right to unban it immediately,' Trump said, his voice sounding a bit congested as he prepares to take the oath of office and take part in inaugural festivities. 'What's he doing? Why is he doing it? You know, we have something that nobody else has. I mean, nobody has, to the extent we have it, and it'll be more by the time we finish, because I'll be able to expand, you know, we're going to expand our country.' 'It's ridiculous. I'll un-ban it immediately,' Donald Trump told Hugh Hewitt after President Biden announced his offshore oil drilling ban 'And it'll be more. We have oil and gas, and whether you manufacture widgets or digits or whatever you happen to be doing. Some countries have to work very hard to do that. We do too, and we will, but we have oil and gas at a level that nobody else has, and we're going to take advantage of it.' 'And when I see somebody saying he's going to ban 625 million acres he doesn't know what that is. He doesn't even know what 625 million acres would look like, and we can't let that happen to our country. It's our greatest = it's really our greatest economic asset, and we're not going to let that happen to our country.' Trump made the comments on January 6, as Congress prepared to meet to certify the electoral votes that will make him president. It came after Trump spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt issued her own curt response calling to 'drill, baby, drill.' 'This is a disgraceful decision designed to exact political revenge on the American people who gave President Trump a mandate to increase drilling and lower gas prices,' Leavitt blasted on X. 'Rest assured, Joe Biden will fail, and we will drill, baby, drill.' Biden's move is a last-ditch effort to stop Trump from keeping his promise to expand offshoring drilling. Despite his determination to roll it back, Trump could be slowed by Congress, which would have to repeal Biden's designation. His memo for the Interior Secretary invokes the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. During Trump's first term, he waged legal battles to try to overturn Barack Obama environmental designations, and got turned back when a court ruled the law doesn't grant him authority to overturn prior bans. Trump attempted to overturn an Obama decision under and Obama Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act during his last month in office, a judge ruled against it. Biden used the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to issue the ban, an invoked the Deepwater Horizon spill and the risks of climate change That indicates an Act of Congress may be required to undo the latest action. According to a White House fact sheet, 'the withdrawals have no expiration date, and prohibit all future oil and natural gas leasing in the areas withdrawn.' Biden invokes the Deepwater Horizon spill in the Gulf and climate change in his statement announcing the move. 'Drilling off these coasts could cause irreversible damage to places we hold dear and is unnecessary to meet our nation's energy needs. It is not worth the risks,' Biden said in a statement. 'As the climate crisis continues to threaten communities across the country and we are transitioning to a clean energy economy, now is the time to protect these coasts for our children and grandchildren.' Unstated by both men are their personal stakes in the issue of offshore drilling. Biden has a Rehoboth Beach house in Delaware that he visited regularly as president. Trump lives at Mar-a-Lago, in a Republican-run state that has a bipartisan opposition to drilling off its waters, which are key to its tourist industry. Trump himself issued an offshore ban for Florida that extends until 2032. Biden's order is part of a blatant move to hamstring the Trump administration as the MAGA die hard has pledged to reverse Biden's climate change policies when he takes office in 14 days. Trump campaigned on a 'drill baby, drill' slogan and has pledged to throw out all of Biden's green energy policies on Day One. In an effort to get ahead of Trump, Biden declared he is using his authority under the 70-year-old Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to block all future oil and natural gas leasing in most U.S. coastal waters. The ban would stop offshoring drilling in all federal waters off the East and West coasts, the eastern Gulf of Mexico and portions of the northern Bering Sea in Alaska. Biden's order will not affect large swaths of the Gulf of Mexico, where most U.S. offshore drilling occurs, but it would protect coastlines along California, Florida and other states from future drilling. The action - which protect more than 625 million acres of federal waters - could be difficult for Trump to unwind, since it will likely require an act of Congress to repeal. Trump's spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt mocked Biden's move writing on X: 'Joe Biden clearly wants high gas prices to be his legacy.' She went on to slam the 'a disgraceful decision designed to exact political revenge on the American people who gave President Trump a mandate to increase drilling and lower gas prices.' Joe Biden, pictured on Sunday, has moved to ban new offshore oil and gas drilling in most US coastal waters in a last-minute effort to block possible action by the incoming Trump administration to expand offshore drilling President-elect Donald Trump, pictured in October last year, has vowed to establish what he calls American 'energy dominance' around the world as he seeks to boost US oil and gas drilling and move away from Biden's focus on climate change Trump's spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt mocked Biden's move writing on X: ' Joe Biden clearly wants high gas prices to be his legacy' 'Rest assured, Joe Biden will fail, and we will drill, baby, drill.' During his term, Biden limited new oil and gas leasing on federal lands and waters, drawing criticism from drilling states and companies. But Trump has vowed to establish what he calls American 'energy dominance' around the world as he seeks to boost oil and gas drilling and move away from Biden's focus on climate change. Biden said the move was aligned with both his climate change agenda and his goal to conserve 30 per cent of American lands and waters by 2030. He also invoked the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, saying the low drilling potential of the areas included in the ban did not justify the public health and economic risks of future leasing. 'My decision reflects what coastal communities, businesses and beachgoers have known for a long time: that drilling off these coasts could cause irreversible damage to places we hold dear and is unnecessary to meet our nation's energy needs,' Biden said in a statement. 'As the climate crisis continues to threaten communities across the country and we are transitioning to a clean energy economy, now is the time to protect these coasts for our children and grandchildren,' he added. But the Lands Act, which allows presidents to withdraw areas from mineral leasing and drilling, does not grant them the legal authority to overturn prior bans, according to a 2019 court ruling. That order came in response to Trump's effort to reverse Arctic and Atlantic Ocean withdrawals made by former President Barack Obama at the end of his presidency. Trump signed a memorandum in 2020 directing the Interior secretary to prohibit drilling in the waters off both Florida coasts, and off the coasts of Georgia and South Carolina until 2032. The action came after he initially moved to vastly expand offshore drilling, before retreating amid widespread opposition in Florida and other coastal states. Biden's decision will protect the same area with no expiration. In balancing multiple uses of America's oceans, Biden said it was clear that the areas he is withdrawing from fossil fuel use show 'relatively minimal potential' that does not justify possible environmental, public health and economic risks that would come from new leasing and drilling. Biden's actions, which protect more than 625 million acres of federal waters, could be difficult for Trump to unwind, since they would likely require an act of Congress to repeal. Pictured is h a view of offshore oil and gas platform Esther in the Pacific Ocean on January 5, 2025 in Seal Beach, California Environmental advocates are hailing Biden's ban, saying new oil and gas drilling must be sharply curtailed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming. 2024 was the hottest in recorded history. 'This is an epic ocean victory!' said Joseph Gordon, campaign director for the environmental group Oceana. Gordon thanked Biden 'for listening to the voices from coastal communities' that oppose drilling and 'contributing to the bipartisan tradition of protecting our coasts.' He added: 'Our treasured coastal communities are now safeguarded for future generations.' But an oil and gas industry trade group said the decision would harm American energy security and should be reversed by Congress. 'We urge policymakers to use every tool at their disposal to reverse this politically motivated decision and restore a pro-American energy approach to federal leasing,' American Petroleum Institute President Mike Sommers said in a statement. Biden has proposed up to three oil and gas lease sales in the Gulf of Mexico, but none in Alaska, as he tries to navigate between energy companies seeking greater oil and gas production and environmental activists who want him to shut down new offshore drilling in the fight against climate change. A five-year drilling plan approved in 2023 includes proposed offshore sales in 2025, 2027 and 2029. The three lease sales are the minimum number the Democratic administration could legally offer if it wants to continue expanding offshore wind development. Under the terms of a 2022 climate law, the government must offer at least 60 million acres of offshore oil and gas leases in any one-year period before it can offer offshore wind leases. Biden, whose decision to approve the huge Willow oil project in Alaska drew strong condemnation from environmental groups, has previously limited offshore drilling in other areas of Alaska and the Arctic Ocean. A twisted nurse accused of breaking the legs of seven newborn babies in her care has been branded a 'racist' who targeted black children, DailyMail.com can exclusively reveal. Erin Strotman has been charged with malicious wounding and felony child abuse over the incidents at Henrico Doctors' Hospital in Richmond, Virginia. The 26-year-old has been accused of initially injuring only black babies by staff in the hospital, with sources saying she 'switched her focus' when she returned to the hospital in late 2024. This was after she and three others were suspended with pay from the neo-natal intensive care unit in 2023 when four babies were found to have 'unexplainable fractures'. One told DailyMail.com: 'The majority of the babies were black babies, when she came back when they noticed the pattern, she tried to throw them off by targeting a white baby and a girl baby. 'She wasn't the strongest in the class, she was literally one of the slowest. People are saying she's a white supremacist but that's a bit of a stretch. I definitely felt like she was racist, she was deeply southern rooted. 'I was surprised at what she did, but I'm not surprised that it was her. If anyone was to do something crazy, she would have been at the top of the list.' The hospital announced on Christmas Eve last year that it would not be 'admitting any additional babies into our NICU at this time' after three babies were found with the fractures in late November and December. Former classmates of 26-year-old Erin Strotman, who is accused of breaking babies' legs, said she was 'weird' and always 'in the background' during their training Erin Strotman has been charged with malicious wounding and felony child abuse over the seven incidents at Henrico Doctors' Hospital in Richmond, Virginia Strotman is seen with her family after her 2019 graduation from nursing school. They refused to comment on her arrest, with one telling DailyMail.com 'I don't want to talk about that' Sources told DailyMail.com that four nurses were initially suspended with full pay for almost a year during the investigation. But they were all allowed to return to work after CPS was unable to prove who was targeting the babies. The hospital later installed 'angel cameras' which allowed constant monitoring of the premature babies. Staff claimed that is how Strotman was caught. Officials confirmed that the injuries were 'similar to an incident involving four babies in the summer of 2023', with Henrico County Police reviewing 'dozens of videos' from inside the unit. Detectives are re-examining the 2023 and 2024 cases as part of the broader investigation. Staff at the hospital are horrified that Strotman was allowed back to work, one nurse telling DailyMail.com: 'Virginia is a right to work state, so you don't have to have a reason to fire someone. 'If you even suspected these people were in the midst of harming babies you can terminate them,' the nurse, who spoke on condition of anonymity, added. 'But why would you let them come back and harm even more babies? They shouldn't have allowed her to come back. Henrico hospital announced on Christmas Eve last year that it would not be 'admitting any additional babies into our NICU at this time' after three babies were found with the fractures The hospital later installed 'angel cameras' which allowed constant monitoring of the premature babies. Staff claimed that is how Strotman was caught and charged The nurse said some fractures are common in childbirth. 'Shoulders and clavicles, when they're coming out of the birth canal, break all the time, but legs never happen. 'It would have to be a whole lot of coincidences for that fracture to be the same way it was in all those babies. 'It would be like trying to snap a pencil. You have to put some force behind it. It's highly unlikely unless you accidentally drop one of them to snap their lower leg, below the knee, and that's what was being broken.' Despite the injuries, the babies are reportedly all doing well and recovering after being moved to different hospitals. Those who trained and worked with Strotman told DailyMail.com they were shocked that she had been placed on the specialist unit in the first place. One described her as being 'weird' and always 'in the background' during their training at ECPI University in Richmond. Footage obtained by DailyMail.com shows Strotman smiling as she crosses the stage to get her associate's degree in nursing diploma in 2019. The course is an accelerated program which lasts just 18 months, with Strotman's fellow graduates describing her as the 'weakest' in their class. They were shocked when she was chosen over their course leader to work at NICU, adding that she 'never spoke about working with babies'. Exclusive DailyMail.com pictures show the inside of Strotman's apartment covered in used training pads after her arrest - sources told DailyMail.com she 'smelled like a farm' and she often spoke about her rescue animals Noah Hackey was one of seven babies who suffered inexplicable injuries at Henrico Doctors' Hospital in Richmond, Virginia. He suffered a fractured leg after his premature birth 'It's crazy they picked a new grad to work there over our teacher,' one said. 'She was always lurking in a corner somewhere, not really great at anything, and she never took time to engage. 'She never spoke about working with babies, and she was one of the last people we thought would do that. 'She had something going back and forth with a guy, she really liked him and changed her whole self, dyed her hair and changed who she was to try to get this guy. 'And then he ended up going off with another girl and they had a son together. Some of us are speculating that might be the reason that she chose to hurt boys. 'We were all saying that she was weird, but she changes and plays up to whoever is in charge, and they say she's not that bad. But we all knew that a tiger doesn't change their stripes.' Strotman previously worked in the progressive nursery care unit (PNCU), where the full term and general population babies were treated, before moving to the neo-natal intensive care unit. Those who knew her added that she always 'smelled like a farm', with mothers who had their children cared for by Strotman confirming she spoke about her rescue animals. Exclusive DailyMail.com pictures show the inside of Strotman's apartment covered in used training pads after her arrest. Noah's father Dominique Hackey contacted child services, who found Noah had suffered level one physical abuse. He went public after discovering that a nurse was likely behind it Her family refused to comment on her arrest, with one telling DailyMail.com 'I don't want to talk about that', when approached. Strotman's arrest came after Dominique and Tori Hackey spoke out after Virginia Child Services informed them that their newborn baby Noah had been abused by an employee at the NICU when he suffered a fractured leg following his premature birth. Authorities opened a probe into the inexplicable fractures after four babies were injured in the summer of 2023 and three more were hurt in November and December of this year. The case echoes that of British serial killer nurse Lucy Letby, although there have been no deaths reported. Strotman was denied bond at a hearing in Henrico on Friday, and will next appear in court in March. An undocumented Guatemalan migrant has been accused of molesting a five-year-old girl on two separate occasions in her family's Florida home. Nicolas Jose Francisco, 25, was charged with two counts of sexual battery of a child under 12 for allegedly inappropriately touching and revealing himself to the young girl. Francisco told police on Thursday that he is innocent, claiming the family is targeting him because of his immigration status, Fox News reported. He reportedly worked in the family's Palm Beach County home for more than a year and was accused of sexually abusing the young victim in the garage and in a bathroom. The child spoke with the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office and the Florida Department of Children and Families on December 13. She told investigators that the first time the abuse allegedly occurred, Francisco told her to come to the garage and he 'touched her flower,' referring to her private parts. The second situation involved Francisco bringing her into a bathroom, where the child said he exposed himself to her and touched her again. 'In sexual abuse cases, in many cases, it's the people that the child knows and that's the scary part for the parents as well,' Senior Director of Strategic impact for the Center of Child Counseling, Jibby Ciric, told WPTV. Nicolas Jose Francisco, 25, was charged with two counts of sexual battery of a child under 12 When police questioned Francisco about the accusations, he denied the claims and said that the only reason he was being blamed was because he 'was an undocumented immigrant,' according to Fox News. He went on to tell deputies that he touched the child 'by mistake both times' and said he was trying to help the girl use the bathroom. Investigators noted that there was no bathroom near the garage. '[Abusers] often try to normalize and diminish the effects of what they have done,' Jibby told WPTV. Police said that during their interview with Francisco, he eventually 'apologized and admitted his behavior and actions were wrong,' according to the report. Francisco appeared in court on Friday morning and is being held at the Palm Beach County jail without bail. The incident comes after a migrant who illegally crossed the US border near Rio Grande, Texas in 2014, was charged with raping a five-year-old girl in October 2024. Wilson Castillo Diaz, 26, was arrested by US border patrol and then released when he first entered the US. He later failed to show up for an immigration court hearing. Francisco appeared in court on Friday morning and is being held at the Palm Beach County jail without bail About a decade later, he was accused of raping the young victim on Long Island in New York on October 14, 2024, according to Nassau County Police. He was arrested a few days after the alleged attack and arraigned the next day on charges of rape, attempted rape and endangering the welfare of a child, police said. Details about the circumstances of the alleged rape, including the relationship between Diaz and the victim, were not made available. The child was taken to a local hospital for medical evaluation. More than 500million of taxpayers' money has been handed out to dead people in just five years because of a pension rule - and families do not have to give it back. A government minister has admitted the scale of mistaken pay-outs over recent years, amid calls for an urgent overhaul of the system. The Department for Work and Pensions has doled out 511.8million in state pensions and pension credits since 2019, Parliament has been told in a written answer. DWP minister Andrew Western was responding to a question from Reform MP Rupert Lowe, who is now demanding changes. Less than half of the money has been recouped by the government, with only 255million returned and 257million still owing - losses which would be enough to cover scrapped winter fuel payments for up to 1.3million pensioners. Mr Lowe, who has been praised his week by X-owning billionaire Elon Musk in contrast to party leader Nigel Farage, described the payouts as 'a shocking waste'. A record high figure of 159million was sent out last year to people who are deceased - and there is no legal obligation on families to return wrongly awarded money. The DWP can write to beneficiaries to ask for state pension or pension credit handouts to be returned, but doing so remains optional. Your browser does not support iframes. The Department for Work and Pensions often writes to families asking for the return of wrongly allocated pensions money, though there is no legal obligation to pay back Work and Pensions Minister Andrew Western has revealed that more than 500million was handed over in pension payments to dead people in the last five years Mr Lowe's question submitted for Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall to answer asked if she would 'make an estimate of the cost to the public purse of pension payments made to deceased recipients in each of the last ten years'. Mr Western, parliamentary under-secretary for transformation in the DWP, issued the response in which he said only data from the past five financial years could be given. He insisted that direct payments into the accounts of people who have died represents 'only around 0.1 per cent of total annual expenditure on pensions'. Mr Western added: 'Although these are treated as non-recoverable and are not enforceable by law, we can request the money back as a voluntary payment. 'So far, we have recovered around half of the overpayments, to avoid this becoming a long-term cost to the taxpayer.' A total of 458million was overpaid in state pension, with only 233million claimed back to leave a net loss of 225million. And a further 54million was wrongly doled out in pension credit, with just 22million voluntarily returned and 32million overall missed out on. People must register loved ones' deaths within five days of them passing away or a body being found, or else eight days in Scotland - yet a final state pension payment can often include payments for further days afterwards. Reform UK MP Rupert Lowe, who had asked for the figures, described the overpayments to people who are no longer alive as 'a shocking waste' People on the old state pension are given pension credit in advance, though it is paid in arrears to those on the new version - while the state pension is always paid in arrears. Responding to the newly revealed figures, Mr Lowe told the Telegraph: 'This is a shocking waste that underlines the contempt with which the Government treats taxpayers money. Why is it tolerated? Why is the return of this money not enforceable? 'This is wide open to fraud and abuse. It needs to be clamped down on as part of a wider Government effort to slash down on misspending. We must keep pushing for transparent data to uncover the true extent of the waste.' Former Liberal Democrats pensions minister Steve Webb, who now works for investment consultancy LCP, said: 'With pensions routinely paid four-weekly in arrears, it is common that part of any final payment will cover a period after the person has died, even if the family contact DWP promptly. 'With everything else that the family is dealing with, letters from DWP trying to recover overpayments are unwelcome and should only be sent out if there is a legal basis for them.' Ali Wong won a Golden Globe award for best stand up comedy performance for her recent Netflix special "Single Lady." Chris Pizzello/Associated Press Ali Wong won her second Golden Globe Award and used her acceptance speech to shout out a San Francisco comedy club that she said was pivotal to her career. The Pacific Heights native earned the award for best stand up comedy performance for her fourth Netflix comedy special Single Lady on Sunday, Jan. 5. I come from San Francisco and thats where I started doing stand up and I wouldnt be here if it wasnt for all the stage time that I got there and all the practice that I got to become a stand up comedian, she said while wearing a red tulle Balenciaga dress, accepting the award from fellow comedian Nate Bargatze. So I really wanna thank Molly Schminke from the SF Punch Line Comedy Club. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Wong has a long history of performing at the Downtown venue, which has also hosted Robin Williams, Dave Chappelle and Ellen DeGeneres over the years. Schminke is a longtime talent buyer for the club. This video is no longer available This video is no longer available NBC's Kristen Welker put Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer on the spot Sunday about President Joe Biden's mental decline. The Meet the Press host played a clip of Schumer from February 2024 in which the New York Democrat said he spoke to the president 'regularly, sometimes several times a week.' 'His mental acuity is great. It's fine. It's as good as it's been over the years. All this right-wing propaganda that his mental acuity has declined is wrong,' Schumer said at the time. Welker then asked what Schumer had to say to Americans who believe Democrats 'misled' them about Biden's mental abilities ahead of the the president's disastrous June debate with Trump. 'Look, we didn't,' the New York Democrat insisted. 'And let's look at President Biden. He's had an amazing record.' Schumer compared Biden's record to President Lyndon B. Johnson's Great Society and pointed out the 235 judges confirmed during the Democrat's term. 'And he's a patriot. He's a great guy,' Schumer went on. 'And when he stepped down, he did it on his own because he thought it was better not only for the Democratic Party, for America,' the Senate leader added. 'We should all salute him. We should all salute him.' NBC's Kristen Welker (left) pressed Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (right) on whether the Democrats 'misled' the American people about President Joe Biden's mental acuity ahead of his disastrous debate in June that eventually forced him out of the 2024 race At the same time, Schumer wouldn't bit when Welker asked if he believed that Biden, now 82, would have been able to serve a full four-year term had he stayed in the race and been successful in November. Schumer wouldn't answer whether he believed 82-year-old President Joe Biden (pictured) would have been able to serve a full four-year term 'Well, I'm not going to speculate,' Schumer said. 'As I said, I think his record is a stellar one. And he'll go down in history as a really outstanding president,' the New Yorker Democrat added. Biden will also go down in history as having helped President-elect Donald Trump take back the White House. Welker's interview came one day before the official January 6th certification of Trump's win. The Meet the Press host pointed to a recent New York Times op-ed by veteran Democratic strategist James Carville in which he argued his party's loss was because they lost the message on the economy. She asked Schumer if he agreed with that assessment. He didn't immediately agree and instead said the party was up against 'very severe headwinds.' Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said Democrats had a bad 2024 because they didn't show enough 'empathy and concern' for the plight of working Americans and instead 'talked about the mechanics of the legislation' Schumer also offered that the Democrats performed better in Senate races than expected - winning or holding onto seats in the swing states of Michigan, Arizona, Nevada and Wisconsin. At the same time, Democratic nominee Vice President Kamala Harris lost to Trump in those four states. Schumer eventually made the point - similarly to Carville - that it was a messaging issue. 'But all too often, Kristen, we talked about the mechanics of the legislation and the details of the legislation,' Schumer said. 'And we really didn't show the kind of empathy and concern or show enough of it to average working families who didn't realize how much we had done and how much we care for them.' 'So what we're going to do is spend a lot of time talking to working families, showing them how much we care about them, and not just talk about legislation, but talk about the conditions that have made so many working families worried about their futures,' Schumer said. 'And that's going to be a significant change.' A Virginia nurse charged with injuring a sick newborn baby has appeared in court amid fears that at least six other babies at the same hospital could have been deliberately hurt. Erin Elizabeth Ann Strotman, 26, was arraigned Friday on charges of malicious wounding and felony child abuse over an incident on November 10, 2024, according to Henrico County Police. At her hearing it was confirmed that Strotman was a nurse at the Henrico County Doctors' Hospital in Richmond and was being paid through to at least Thanksgiving of 2024. Strotman, who got her nursing degree in 2019, worked in the hospital's neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) when four babies were injured in the summer of 2023. Even after the hospital put cameras in place to monitor employees, three more babies had 'unexplainable fractures' in late November and December of 2024, WRIC reported. Strotman appeared by video and the judge determined that she should be held in jail without bond. The two charges against Strotman filed on January 2 stem from her alleged abuse of one baby. At least five state and county agencies are investigating the incidents of abuse against all seven babies. It is not clear what the health status of the babies are and Henrico County Commonwealth's Attorney Shannon Taylor would not yet confirm if they were alive after the arraignment. Erin Elizabeth Ann Strotman, 26, has been arrested and charged with the abuse of one baby. Though multiple agencies are investigating the injuries of six other babies who were at one point were in the NICU at Henrico County Doctors' Hospital in Richmond Strotman, pictured in a cap and gown, is charged with malicious wounding and felony child abuse. She could face 30 years in prison if convicted consecutively of both crimes 'The maximum statutory penalty for felony child neglect is 10 years of incarceration and the maximum statutory penalty for felony malicious wounding is 20 years of incarceration,' Taylor said. She could face 30 years in prison if convicted consecutively of both crimes. While in jail, Strotman has been ordered to cease contact with anyone under the age of 18. She is scheduled to appear in court next on March 24. Henrico Doctors' Hospital's NICU, which takes care of critically ill newborns, has 40 treatment areas. The hospital delivers around 4,500 babies every year. While hospital officials acknowledge 'fractures occasionally happen' these fractures appeared to be a cause for concern. Investigators went about reviewing video footage from inside the NICU to determine if there had been any staff misconduct or unreported accidents. A hospital statement on Friday said that the NICU is 'not admitting new patients' at this time. The scrutiny on the hospital's practices began in 2023 after a couple who had twins delivered there noticed a leg fracture on one of the babies. Dominique and Tori Hackey welcomed their twin boys, Noah and Micah, in August 2023. Noah was doing well until Dominique noticed his left leg was not moving. Noah Hackey was one of seven babies who suffered inexplicable injuries at the hospital where Strotman worked Pictured: An X-ray of the fracture to Noah's leg that was provided by his father Dominique Hackey 'It was kind of discolored. I told the doctor on staff, got some x-rays, and we determined he had a fracture to his leg. So we are going to splint it for the next two weeks and then she was like do you want to hold him?' Dominique told WTVR. The couple said they did not want to hold Noah for fears the hospital would blame them for the injury. 'In my mind Im like, I dont want them to turn it around on us and say we broke his leg or anything like that so I was like no, we dont want to hold him, we are just going to process this,' Dominique added. An X-ray showed that Noah's tibia had been fractured, and, according to Dominique, the hospital suggested the injury was accidental. 'Thats what they told us, that it could have been done because an injection was given and maybe they did it too hard and it caused the fracture,' Dominique said. Dominique said it concerned him so he contacted child services. In September he received a review of their investigation, which found there was level-one physical abuse of Noah - the worst level in Virginia. Noah has since fully recovered from the injury. Dominique Hackey initiated the investigation by contacting child services, who found Noah had suffered the most severe level of physical abuse. He met three other families with babies who were allegedly abused by hospital staff In October police informed the Hackeys that other babies had also been mysteriously injured at the Richmond hospital. The hospital told the Hackeys that they implemented preventative measures like cameras in the NICU and more training. But the hospital shut down its NICU in late December after the measures failed to prevent three more babies being injured in November and December. Dominique was present at Strotman's arraignment, with three of the other families who had babies that were allegedly abused at the NICU. The charges Strotman faces are not related to the bone fracture that was suffered by young Noah. Investigators still have not confirmed who allegedly abused the baby. 'For that father and that mother, I felt how I felt when I learned that my son had a fracture. That I was helpless,' he told WTVR. 'What this person did, it makes me sick. It truly makes me sick.' This is the terrifying moment parachuting soldiers spiral out of control after becoming tangled mid descent but manage to survive. Two Naval officers had been participating in an operational demonstration on Sunday before miraculously landing at the Rama Krishna Breach in Andhra Pradesh's Visakhapatnam, India. The soldiers were taking part in the Eastern Naval Command's Operational Demonstration rehearsal when their parachutes became entwined mid-air. Nail biting footage of the incident shows the pair falling from the sky at speed with their parachutes tangled together. One officer can be descending with a green parachute, and the other's depicts India's national flag. The clip sees both soldiers spinning out of control as they plummet down towards the sea, before eventually making contact with the open water in front of several horrified onlookers. Thankfully, a navy boat was present close to the area where the two officers landed and rescued them to safety. A number of locals were present to watch the rehearsal of the event which is set to take place tomorrow, where Andhra Pradesh's Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu will be the star guest. Two Indian naval officers were seen falling from the sky after their parachutes became stuck mid descent The pair plummeted towards the sea at the Rama Krishna Breach in Andhra Pradesh's Visakhapatnam, India They hit the sea with their tangled parachutes still attached to them in front of horrified onlookers Thankfully, a navy boat was present close to the area where the two officers landed and rescued them to safety The Eastern Naval Command's Operational Demonstration displays the Indian Navy's capabilities thorough an incredible and neatly choreographed selection of activities. These include demonstrations by warships, submarines, aircraft, the Naval Band, and the Marine Commandos (MARCOS). According to local reports of the event, guests are also treated to high-speed maneuvers by warships of various types, flying operations by fighters, fixed-wing maritime aircraft and helicopters, demonstrations of amphibious assault, live slithering operations and Combat Free Fall by MARCOS. The terrifying parachute fail comes after a skydiving videographer died during a parachute jump last year. Durham Police said Sam Cornwell, 46, from Hampshire, UK, was skydiving on Saturday April 28 near Shotton airfield in County Durham, when his parachute failed to open. He suffered critical injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene at South West Industrial Estate in Shotton. A terrifying video shows a mass brawl breaking out in a packed London shopping centre, with at least one thug wielding a machete. In the chilling footage filmed at Westfield Stratford in east London on Sunday, two men can be seen jostling and one appears to be holding a large knife. Another pair are seen grappling with each other on the floor in front of appalled shoppers. One man holds down the other while punching him in the face. Meanwhile, the man with the machete chases down his opponent and kicks at him. Suddenly, a bigger group joins in and kick the man who has fallen to the floor. When he stands up, the man carrying the huge blade swings the weapon at him. Shocked passersby and members of security wearing hi-vis vests watch on. A chilling video shows a mass brawl breaking out in a packed London shopping centre, with at least one thug wielding a machete (pictured) The video was filmed at Westfield Stratford in east London on Sunday evening The Metropolitan Police said four males - aged 16 and 17 - were arrested on suspicion of affray A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: 'Police were called at approximately 7pm on Sunday, 5 January to reports of a fight involving a group of people, some armed with knives, in the vicinity of Westfield, E20. 'Officers and London Ambulance Service attended. 'There were no reports of any serious injuries. 'Four males - aged 16 and 17 - were arrested on suspicion of affray. 'Enquiries into the circumstances continue.' Westfield declined to comment. This armed brawl came just two days after another knife fight in the neighbouring borough of Hackney. A clip filmed by a member of the public and put online shows two sword-wielding men having a machete fight in the middle of the street on Friday night. This fight, which took place on Wick Road in Homerton, spilled into the road, forcing motorists to flow down. A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: 'We are aware of this video circulating online and are making enquiries. There are no known reports or injuries.' The fight broke out as appalled shoppers and security guards watched on The armed brawl took place just two days after another knife fight in the next borough over - Hackney These two incidents are the latest in London's knife crime epidemic, with offences on the rise These two incidents are the latest in London's knife crime epidemic. Knife crime is on the rise in London, with 15,016 offences recorded in 2023/24, up from 12,786 the year before, a 17.4% rise. It is the highest number of offences since 2019/2020, after which there was a significant drop during the Covid pandemic, followed by a steady annual increase. According to the Crime in England and Wales 2024 report, around 30% of knife-enabled crime was recorded by the Metropolitan Police Service. Sadiq Khan, previously MP for Tooting in south London, became the Mayor of London in May 2016, followed by re-elections in 2021 and 2024. As Mayor, he is responsible for policing, but during his time in City Hall, London has been dubbed the 'knife crime capital' and the Met Police has been forced into special measures. Sir Sadiq was accused of 'losing control' on crime in the city, with a reported 38% increase in knife offences since he took office. The Labour politician received a knighthood in this year's New Year Honours list, sparking knife crime campaigners to argue it is 'an insult' to victims' families. Suzanne Hedges, whose son was stabbed to death by a teenager in 2016, told the Daily Telegraph: 'It's insulting, degrading and disrespectful to families that have lost someone to knife crime.' Courtney Barrett, of the Binning Knives Saves Lives group, added: 'The knighthood is an insult, and I speak for 20 families of murder victims who I work closely with.' Four years after the riot at the US capitol, many of the people who stormed the building say they don't regret their actions. Hundreds of Americans served time in prison after what was the largest single investigation the Justice Department has ever undertaken, leading to arrests in all 50 states. But many of those who stormed the Capitol in support of Donald Trump say they were the victims of a conspiracy between the media and federal government. Eric Clark, 48, told The New York Times that it was his own daughter who turned him into police after seeing him at the Capitol riot on the news. Clark was sentenced to five months in prison after he entered the capitol and refused to leave as he protested what he believed was a stolen presidential election. Just months before, Clark had turned his life around, getting sober after battling homelessness. Eric Clark said that it was his own daughter who turned him into police after seeing him at the Capitol riot on the news Clark was sentenced to five months in prison after he entered the capitol and refused to leave as he protested what he believed was a stolen presidential election He's now starting to rebuild his life again, and does not blame his daughter for turning him in. 'Instead of being mad at her... Ive chosen to accept that she has her viewpoint and I have mine,' Clark said. Real estate broker and influencer Jenna Ryan, 54, served 60 days in prison over her role in the capitol riot, but she argues she was treated unfairly because of her 'public profile. Moreover, she told the NYT the saga allowed her to fulfill her 'lifelong goal of being a writer and a speaker.' She wrote a book titled Storming the Capitol: My Truth About January 6th.' Ryan, a Texas resident, found herself at the capitol after taking a private jet to DC for a date with a man who dumped her hours later. Before the start of her trial, Ryan responded to a tweet warning her she was destined for custody, saying: 'Definitely not going to jail. Real estate broker and influencer Jenna Ryan, 54, served 60 days in prison over her role in the capitol riot Ryan, a Texas resident, found herself at the capitol after taking a private jet to DC for a date with a man who dumped her hours later 'Sorry I have blonde hair white skin a great job a great future and I'm not going to jail. Sorry to rain on your hater parade. I did nothing wrong.' Meanwhile one of the most recognizable faces from the capitol riot, known as the 'QAnon Shaman,' gave a graveling apology during his sentencing but has since taken it back. Jacob Chansley is also rebuilding his life after being sentenced to 41 months in prison - one of the harshest sentences handed out in the case. He told the NYT he was the victim of 'tyranny,' and claims January 6 was a 'setup' by the media and federal government. Chansley, 37, said his life in Phoenix as an artist remains the same as before his prison time, but now he 'gets more interviews.' The legacy of January 6 hangs over the proceedings on Monday as lawmakers arrived to certify the new president under the tightest national security level possible. Layers of tall black fencing flanked the Capitol complex in a stark reminder of what happened four years ago, when a MAGA mob entered the capitol in what became the most gruesome attack on the seat of American democracy in 200 years. Jacob Chansley is also rebuilding his life after being sentenced to 41 months in prison - one of the harshest sentences handed out in the case. He claims he is the victim of injustice Jacob Chansley, one of the most recognizable faces from the capitol riot, known as the 'QAnon Shaman' No violence, protests or even procedural objections in Congress are expected this time. Republicans from the highest levels of power who challenged the 2020 election results when Trump lost to Democrat Joe Biden have no qualms this year after he defeated Vice President Kamala Harris. And Democrats frustrated by Trumps 312-226 Electoral College victory nevertheless accept the choice of the American voters. Even the snowstorm barreling down on the region wasnt expected to interfere with Jan. 6, the day set by law to certify the vote. The attorney for one of the West Memphis Three revealed the reason he believes his client was wrongly convicted for the horrific murders of three eight-year-old Cub Scouts. The three young victims - Stevie Branch, Michael Moore and Christopher Byers - were found naked in a murky ditch, hog-tied with their shoelaces, and mutilated beyond recognition in West Memphis, Arkansas, in May 1993. Dan Stidham represented then 17-year-old Jessie Misskelley, Jr. - one of the teens who was convicted of the heinous crime in 1994 along with Damien Echols, 18, and Jason Baldwin, 16. The teens became known as the West Memphis Three, with prosecutors claiming they killed the children as part of a Satanic ritual - which Stidham believes is why his client was convicted with little to no evidence. 'The one opponent I couldn't beat was Satanic Panic,' Stidham told The U.S. Sun. 'This literally had frightened the Mid South here in the United States and affected the entire nation.' 'Back then, our culture was a lot different than it is today, and of course, there'll be a repeat of this; it seems like it's on a 300-year cycle. As the world has become a bit more sophisticated and less superstitious, and the advent of the internet, back then we were in the midst of a moral panic, at least here in America. 'The FBI stepped in and actually conducted a survey and were not ever able to find or connect any homicide in the United States to a satanic ritualistic homicide.' Autopsies by forensic pathologist Frank J. Peretti indicated that Byers died of 'multiple injuries' while Moore and Branch died of 'multiple injuries with drowning.' Echols received a death sentence, and Baldwin and Misskelley were sentenced to life in prison. The suspects spent the next 18 years behind bars but were released from prison in 2011 and continue to maintain their innocence to this day. The attorney for one of the West Memphis Three (pictured) believes they were wrongfully convicted because of 'Satanic Panic' Dan Stidham (pictured) represented then 17-year-old Jessie Misskelley, Jr. who was sentenced to life in prison for the heinous crime The teens became known as the West Memphis Three, with prosecutors claiming they killed the children as part of a Satanic ritual In 2007, DNA from the crime scene was tested, and none of the teens were a match. By 2011, they were finally released after taking Alford Pleas, meaning they accepted lesser charges while verbally maintaining their innocence. 'There's some new DNA technology that wasn't available back in 2007 when we finally broke the case open and proved that it wasn't a satanic ritual homicide,' Stidham said. 'The injuries to the boy's bodies were caused by animal predation, most likely, turtles and raccoons, things of that nature, which was misinterpreted by the police, along with the initial autopsy report that made them think that's what happened.' In April, a critical new development took place in the decades-long case when the Arkansas Supreme Court ruled in favor of new DNA testing of evidence from the crime scene that was unavailable when the evidence was previously tested. Echols' attorney had filed a petition in 2022 requesting further testing, which a circuit court initially denied because Echols was no longer in custody before the state supreme court overturned it in 2024. This DNA - that may hold key evidence in the case - will now be retested with the M-Vac wet vacuum system, a forensic collection device that investigators use to solve crimes. Stidham told DailyMail.com he believes a long haul truck driver may be the real culprit for the triple murders. The three young victims - Stevie Branch, Michael Moore and Christopher Byers - were found naked in a murky ditch, hog-tied with their shoelaces, and mutilated Stidham (right) believes a long haul truck driver may be the real culprit for the triple murders The attorney did not reveal the alleged suspect's name, but said that he is already serving a life sentence for a separate murder conviction. This unnamed truck driver, who the attorney honed in on during his rookie investigations, allegedly has other victims of varying appearance and gender. Stidham said he is also looking at a second long haul trucker, also serving a life sentence, as a potential suspect. The pair have been communicating via mail exchange, and he plans to visit him. Another lead he continues to pursue is Terry Hobbs, the stepfather of Stevie Branch, one of the eight-year-old victims, who was married to Stevie's mom Pam. They divorced after her son's murder. Hobbs has never been arrested or charged for the crimes, and previously in 2021 welcomed the new DNA testing, according to Action News 5. Before the murders, Hobbs, who was reportedly doing drugs with some other men, caught the boys spying on them. 'I said this in my book, I am not willing to take Terry Hobbs off the suspect list,' he said. 'I cannot account where he was over the entire evening - all night and all morning- the next day.' He added: 'We have a small DNA link at this point and where it was located was in one of the ligatures that bound the boys.' The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation's Chief Political Correspondent had tears in her eyes this morning as she reported on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's resignation. The broadcast from Rosemary Barton, 48, came minutes before the politician confirmed his exit during a speech outside Rideau Cottage, in Ottawa, a little after 11am. As she waited, a visibly emotional Barton talked up the progressive, hailing his pandemic response and legacy. This, along with her frazzled emotional state, spawned a storm of critical comments on social media, as many reminded her of what led to the decision. Others predicted that the staffer's job - thanks to Trudeau's potential replacement - was 'toast'. She remained glassy-eyed and choked up for much of the broadcast, which continued after Trudeau's announcement. She said nothing negative regarding the Trudeau leadership, which has been hanging over Canada for going on 12 years. Trudeau, meanwhile, said the countrys parliament will be suspended until March 24 as a new leader is chosen, after his time at the top paved the way for a potential landslide liberal party loss if he stayed. Polls and protests ahead of Trudeau's resignation made that abundantly clear, but Barton appeared to still take it to heart. As onlookers took notice, other Canadians appearing on the air waves also insisted Trudeau's terms were successful, sparking speculation. Scroll down for video: The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation's (CBC's) Chief Political Correspondent, Rosie Barton, had tears in her eyes this morning as she reported on Justin Trudeau's resignation. The broadcast came minutes before the politician confirmed his exit during a speech outside Rideau Cottage, in Ottawa, a little after 11am, and spawned some critical comments on social media Barton "Fittingly, the Prime Minister is late, this has not changed" And Rosie is still bitter about not getting her year end Trudeau interview (~1:10) @RosieBarton pic.twitter.com/pVSn6PsXcV cbcwatcher (@cbcwatcher) January 6, 2025 'Rosie Barton is just vile. Just vile. The coverage for this announcement is as expected,' wrote one onlooker of the anchor's display. 'Rosie Barton is crying on the CBC,' added another. 'Gotta love it! It will be a glorious day when the CBC is finally defunded.' 'Wonder if @RosieBarton was tearfully taking down her Justin posters in her girl power bedroom last night,' joked another, of a woman who over the past decade has become a fixture on the channel, each year interviewing Trudeau herself. '@CBCNews should put old Rosie on suicide watch now that her reason for being is getting kicked out of govt,' the commenter sniped. 'Watching CBC @RosieBarton is on the verge of tears,' noticed someone else. 'Trembling voice and all... talking about Trudeaus legacy and how much Canada supposedly owes him. Aww.' Several others expressed more of the same, as Barton at one point joked about losing out on her regular, year-end interview with the 53-year-old, whose tenure has given way to a pronounced housing crisis. Meanwhile, floated replacement Pierre Poilievere, a conservative, has threatened to defund the CBC. 'Rosie Barton is looking at unemployment,' thus joked one X user. 'So much for objective journalism,' added another. Barton's frazzled emotional state, spawned a storm of critical comments on social media, as many reminded her of what led to the decision. Others predicted the staffer's job was 'toast' Her fate at the network is somewhat uncertain, after Trudeau's likely replacement has pondered 'defunding' the government station The storm of comments honed in a figure, who over the past decade, has become a fixture on the channel, each year interviewing Trudeau herself Someone else shared a meme similarly suggesting that Barton's 'job [was] toast,' as other networks reported on the Trudeau situation in real-time as well. Sitting down with CTV, public opinion pollster Nik Nanos also spoke highly of Trudeau, praising him for helping Canada 'navigate through the first Trump presidency.' He further hailed the liberal leader for getting the country 'through the pandemic,' and 'advanc[ing] a number of progressive policies.' Soundbites of those comments quickly circulated on social media as well, and were promptly met with scrutiny. 'I'm on the disagree side,' wrote on onlooker as Trudeau made swirling rumors of his exit official. 'First time watching national TV in a while and it confirms not to watch,' scathed another. Added some else: 'I wanted to see Pierre Poilievre destroy Trudeau and the Liberals in an election. Oh well, we'll have to settle for decimation of the Liberal Party.' Meanwhile, the Liberal Party in Canada had set an emergency meeting for Wednesday to discuss how to handle the growing rift within the party, with Trudeau stepping aside before the gathering could take place. other networks reported on the Trudeau situation in real-time as well, with public opinion pollster Nik Nanos sitting down with CTV to praise the politician for, in his own words, helping Canada 'navigate through the first Trump presidency' and the pandemic Outside his Rideau Cottage residence in Ottawa, Trudeau delivered a speech that a printed version seemed to suggest was made off the cuff Protesters in Ottawa are seen airing their distaste for the liberal leader in 2022, with his popularity since plummeting further Outside his Rideau Cottage residence in Ottawa, Trudeau delivered a speech that a printed version seemed to suggest was made off the cuff. 'I intend to resign as Party Leader, as Prime Minister, after the Party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide, competitive process,' Trudeau announced in remarks delivered in English and then French. He will remain in power until his party selects a new leader, which will need to be done before general elections in the fall. The father-of-three served as Prime Minister since November 2015, and during his separattion from wife Sophie, announced in August 2023. He disclosed that he told his kids about his decision at dinner in Sunday night, as issues like inflation and a housing shortage under his reign have become too much to bear for most Canadians, evidenced by recent protests and polls across the country. The politician's encounters with citizens - and his relationship with President-elect Trump - had become increasingly testy in recent months, further cementing his ouster. Trump has promised to impose high tariffs on Canada when he becomes president - leading one of the politician's most loyal cabinet members, upon resigning last month, to reveal his waning faith in the prime minister. 'Our country is facing a grave challenge,' Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland warned at the time. Donald Trump said he and his team have been talking to China ahead of inauguration 'That means keeping our fiscal powder dry today, so we have the reserves we may need for a coming tariff war.' She said that she felt Trudeau was not prepared to respond appropriately to such a fate. Meanwhile, since their meeting in Mar-a-Lago in November, Trump has repeatedly joked that Canada could be absorbed by the US as a 51st state. He has also mercilessly mocked 'pretty boy' Trudeau's strength, calling him the 'governor.' Vice President Kamala Harris smiled ruefully as she fulfilled her constitutional duty to certify the electoral votes from the 2024 presidential election. It marked a humiliating finale to her own failed White House bid. Harris took her place next to Republican Speaker Mike Johnson during a joint session of Congress featuring members of both the Senate and the House of Representatives. She was then forced to listen as the state-by-state results of the election were read out, laying bare the extent of her own defeat by Donald Trump. During the campaign Harris had repeatedly called the president-elect a threat to democracy, a fascist, 'petty tyrant' and aspiring dictator. Vice President-elect J.D. Vance, a current senator from Ohio, sat in the front row looking on without expression, clapping mildly - at times unenthusiastically - as the states he and Trump won were read aloud. Methodically, after the votes from each of the states and U.S. territories were counted and confirmed, Harris proclaimed Trump and Vance victorious. 'Donald J. Trump of the state of Florida has received 312 votes,' Harris said in a steady, emotionless voice. 'This announcement of the state of the vote by the president of the senate shall be deemed a sufficient declaration of the persons elected president and vice president of the United States,' she continued. Her pronouncement that Trump is to be the 47th president was met with load roars of approval and a standing ovation from Republicans. 'Kamala Harris of the state of California received 226 votes,' she continued, this time Democrats standing and cheering her on. Vice President Kamala Harris and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson preside over a joint session of Congress to certify the results of the 2024 Presidential election, inside the House Chamber at the US Capitol on January 6, 2025, in Washington, D.C. Members of the House and Senate convened for a joint session to confirm Trump's victory Exactly four years after Donald Trump's supporters stormed the Capitol, seeking to overturn his election loss, Harris and lawmakers meet today to certify his 2024 Presidential win, cementing the Republican's comeback from political ignominy On a quiet snowy day four years after the ransacking of the Capitol by a crowd of crazed activists on January 6, 2021, Trump, after spending some time in the political wilderness, was again was named a presidential contest winner. Leaving the Capitol following the joint session, Harris told reporters: 'Today, I did what I have done my entire career, which is take seriously the oath that I have taken many times to support and defend the Constitution of the United States, which included today, performing my constitutional duties to ensure that the people of America, the voters of America, will have their votes counted, that those votes matter and that they will determine, then, the outcome of an election.' Trump, meanwhile, was handing out hats to those who volunteered to help his successful campaign. 'President meets with and signs hats for his hardworking Correspondence volunteers,' Trump's Deputy Communications Director Margo Martin posted on X alongside a photo of the president-elect and his supporters. The joint session featured many colorful moments as lawmakers reconvened for the second day of the 119th Congress. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, 84, hobbled into the chamber using a walker after suffering a broken hip after falling down some marble stairs during a trip to Europe just before Christmas. Pelosi had managed to make it back from across the pond last week to vote in the contentious House speaker vote. She had undergone hip replacement surgery while abroad, but the walker with its customary tennis balls was a newly unveiled accessory. Former Republican Senate Leader Mitch McConnell, who was also injured during a fall last month, was seen wearing a blue medical face mask at the joint session. Meanwhile, social media users blasted the VP for the mortifying moment. 'President meets with and signs hats for his hardworking Correspondence volunteers,' the picture's caption said Representative Nancy Pelosi, Democrat from California, arrives for a joint session of Congress to certify the results of the 2024 Presidential election with a walker Huge standing ovation as Kamala Harris announces how badly she got spanked in the election,' said Jordan Conradson of Gateway Pundit. 'How embarrassing.' Another X user wrote: 'You may feel humiliated from time to time, but youll never feel as humiliated as Kamala Harris reading off the certification of Donald J. Trump for POTUS to a thunderous applause of her congressional peers' Harris' presiding over the joint session adds her to a unique club of VPs who have had to embarrassingly exclaim the victory for the man they ran against. According to the Constitution, the vice president, as the leader of the Senate, is entrusted with the process of declaring the result of a White House election. Harris now follows in the footsteps of Al Gore, vice president to Bill Clinton, who had to certify his defeat to Republican George W. Bush in 2001. Richard Nixon, as then-vice president to Dwight D. Eisenhower, similarly had to sign off on the results of his loss to John F. Kennedy after the 1960 election. The moment for Harris, though surely bittersweet, must have been a lot more boring than her experience during the last electoral certification, during which she was a Senator from California. Four years ago, as her predecessor then-VP Mike Pence and Congress readied to certify President Joe Biden's electoral victory over Trump, the infamous January 6 riot broke out. Thousands stormed the Capitol grounds that day. Some fought with law enforcement while others broke windows to enter the House floor and halt Biden's election certification. The plan worked, for a time, but Pence and Congress returned hours after the riotous mob drove the politicians out. At around 3:30 am on January 7, Biden's victory was confirmed. President-elect Donald Trump is pictured at an election night watch party, Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024, in West Palm Beach, Florida Harris shakes hands with Tennessee Republican Rep. Tim Burchett while walking into the House chamber on Monday afternoon This time around the certification was much more mundane. Earlier in the day Harris confirmed that she would indeed certify the election results that were not in her favor. 'The peaceful transfer of power is one of the most fundamental principles of American democracy,' Harris said in a video posted to her X account. 'As much as any other principle, it is what distinguishes our system of government from monarchy and tyranny,' she said. The VP also alluded to the January 6th attack four years later. 'As we have seen, our democracy can be fragile,' she noted. 'And it is up to then each one of us to stand up for our most cherished principles and to make sure in American our government always remains of the people, by the people and for the people.' Her statement seemed to be one last act of defiance against the incoming Republican before he gets sworn into office on January 20. Politicians across Europe have issued stern warnings to Elon Musk over the tech billionaire's perceived meddling in their countries' internal affairs. Emmanuel Macron has become the latest leader to criticise the X boss, accusing him of intervening directly in the democratic processes of sovereign nations. 'Ten years ago, who could have imagined it if we had been told that the owner of one of the largest social networks in the world would support a new international reactionary movement and intervene directly in elections, including in Germany,' Macron told ambassadors at an annual foreign policy speech today. World's richest man Musk has launched a series of attacks on German politicians and voiced his support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party ahead of elections in the country. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who Musk labelled a 'fool' after his coalition government collapsed in November, said at the weekend he is staying 'cool' against critical personal comments made by the US tech tycoon. He added however that he finds it worrying that Musk, who backed the AfD in an opinion piece in a major German paper last year, makes the effort to get involved in a general election by endorsing the far-right. German opposition leader Friedrich Merz also called Musk's remarks 'intrusive and pretentious', while vice-Chancellor Robert Habeck warned him: 'Hands off our democracy, Mr Musk!' 'The combination of immense wealth, control over information and networks, the use of artificial intelligence and the will to ignore rules is a frontal attack on our democracy,' the Green Party politician told Der Spiegel. Meanwhile Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre, said Monday he found it 'worrying' that Musk, 'a man with enormous access to social media' would be so 'directly involved in the internal affairs of other countries.' 'This is not the way things should be between democracies and allies,' he told broadcaster NRK. Politicians across Europe have issued stern warnings to Elon Musk over the tech billionaire's perceived meddling in their countries' internal affairs The Prime Minister slammed those 'spreading lies and misinformation' following days of incendiary posts by Musk Emmanuel Macron has become the latest leader to criticise the X boss, accusing him of intervening directly in the democratic processes of sovereign nations Musk, who is a close ally of Donald Trump and spent more than $250million (210m) helping in his re-election campaign, is set to take on a new advisory role in the incoming administration. In the UK, ministers have urged Musk to get off social media today as brutal clashes with Keir Starmer escalated. The Prime Minister slammed those 'spreading lies and misinformation' following days of incendiary posts by Musk over the historical grooming gangs scandal in northern England. Musk accused the centre-left Labour leader of being 'deeply complicit in the mass rapes' and 'utterly despicable'. He then sparked backlash after he asked followers on X whether the US should 'liberate' Britain from its 'tyrannical government'. The Lib Dems have called for Washington's ambassador to be summoned to explain why one of Donald Trump's closest allies is mooting the overthrow of the British government. Sir Keir mounted a robust defence as he took questions after laying out NHS waiting list plans this morning. He said 'child sexual exploitation is utterly sickening' and victims had been 'let down' - but insisted he had tackled the issues 'head on' as director of public prosecutions. The premier accused opposition politicians of 'amplifying what the far-right is saying' after falling to act 'for 14 long years'. He insisted he would fight the 'poison' from extremists, arguing that those who are 'spreading lies and misinformation... are not interested in victims, they are interested in themselves'. Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre, said Monday he found it 'worrying' that Musk, 'a man with enormous access to social media' would be so 'directly involved in the internal affairs of other countries' Sir Keir said he was making a 'general point' and did not want to 'individualise' the row to Musk. The PM's Cabinet allies said that Musk needs an online 'detox', and even hinted at a boycott of his X social media site. Germany's Scholz said in comments published Saturday by the German magazine Stern that there is 'nothing new' in criticism by 'rich media entrepreneurs who do not appreciate social democratic politics and do not hold back with their opinions.' 'You have to stay cool,' Scholz, a member of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD), told Stern. 'I find it much more worrying than such insults that Musk is supporting a party like the AfD, which is in parts right-wing extremist, which preaches rapprochement with Putin's Russia and wants to weaken transatlantic relations,' Scholz said. Former finance minister Christian Lindner also warned that Musk should not 'jump to hasty conclusions' from afar, stating that the AfD is 'against freedom and the economy - and it is a right-wing extremist party.' Musk has publicly backed the AfD's Alice Weidel, and has invited her to hold a live chat on his platform X this week The AfD is monitored by Germany's domestic intelligence service on suspicion of being right-wing extremist and has already been recognized as such in some individual German states. Germany will hold an early parliamentary election on February 23 after Scholz's three-party coalition collapsed in November in a dispute over how to revitalize the country's stagnant economy. The vice chancellor and economy minister, Robert Habeck, also warned Musk against getting involved in Germany's politics. 'Hands off our democracy, Mr. Musk!' Habeck said in an interview with the Spiegel magazine. 'The combination of enormous wealth, control over information and networks, the use of artificial intelligence and the willingness to ignore rules is a frontal attack on our democracy,' said Habeck, the Green Party's candidate for chancellor. Musk recently caused uproar after backing the AfD in an opinion piece for the Welt am Sonntag, leading to the resignation of the paper's opinion editor, Eva Marie Kogel, in protest. Germany will hold an early parliamentary election on February 23 after Scholz's three-party coalition collapsed in November 'The AfD is the last spark of hope for this country,' Musk wrote in his translated commentary. The Tesla Motors CEO also wrote that his investment in Germany gave him the right to comment on the country's condition. The AfD is polling strongly, but its candidate for the top job, Alice Weidel, has no realistic chance of becoming chancellor because other parties refuse to work with the far-right party. Musk has publicly backed Weidel nevertheless, and has invited her to hold a live chat on his platform X this week. 'The normal people, the sensible people, the decent people are far in the majority in this country,' a government spokesman said a week after the government accused the tycoon of using his social media site X to try and promote the interests of the AfD. 'We act as if Mr Musk's statements... could influence a country of 84 million people with untruths or half-truths or expressions of opinion. This is simply not the case,' he added. Donald Trump revealed on Monday that he has been in contact with one of the United States' biggest adversaries ahead of taking the oath of office. The president-elect told radio host Hugh Hewitt that he and his team have been speaking with representatives of Chinese President Xi Jinping. 'We've already been talking,' he said. 'We've been talking through their representatives.' Trump, who takes office on January 20, said he believes he and Xi will get along well. He had invited the Chinese leader to his inauguration but Xi declined. 'We will probably get along very well, I predict,' the president-elect said. However, he also had a word of warning. 'You know, it's got to be a two way street,' he said, repeating his accusation that China has been 'ripping off' the U.S. Donald Trump said he and his team have been talking to China ahead of inauguration Trump has threatened to pile the tariffs on Beijing, saying it's in retaliation for what he sees as unfair subsidies for Chinese industrial products. Xi, meanwhile, claimed last month that China's economy is on course to expand by 5% in 2025 as he tried to rebut concerns Trump's policies will hurt his country's economy. Beijing has long accused the United States and its allies of trying to contain China. And now China has fired a warning shot, penalizing several major U.S. defense firms with trade measures, just a few weeks ahead of Trump taking office. The companies - including Raytheon, Boeing, General Dynamics and Lockheed Martin - are barred from all import and export activities related to China, from making new investments in the country, and senior executives of the companies will be denied work permits. But the move is seen as a mostly symbolic rebuke of Trump. The defense firms do little business with Beijing as weapons sales to China are not allowed without a presidential waiver. Therefore Xi's move won't have a lot of economic consequences for the firms. Still, it's a sign of how the next four years may go with the two men. Trump has said he will impose an additional 10% tariff on Chinese goods unless Beijing does more to stop trafficking of fentanyl. And many of his advisors are hawks on China. Marco Rubio, his pick for Secretary of State, has called Beijing the threat that will define this century. Trump and Xi had a tense relationship during his first term in the White House, particularly as COVID spread. Trump called it the 'China-virus' and blamed Beijing for its spread. Xi Jinping and then-President Donald Trump at a Mar-a-Lago in April 2017 Trump (second left) has been meeting with other world leaders. Above he met with Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni (second right) at Mar-a-Lago along with incoming national security advisor Mike Waltz and his pick for Secretary of State Marco Rubio Trump also has met with other world leaders ahead of his second term. Outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made the trek to Mar-a-Lago for dinner with Trump as did Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni. French President Emmanuel Macron hosted Trump in Paris at the reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral where the president-elect met with Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelensky and Prince William. Harbin becomes one of China's top winter travel destinations Xinhua) 08:52, January 06, 2025 Visitors pose for photos with snowmen at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 3, 2025. Harbin, with many snow sculptures across the city, has emerged as one of China's top winter travel destinations, attracting tourists from around the globe. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) A boy poses for photos with a snowman at an ice and snow amusement park in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 4, 2025. Harbin, with many snow sculptures across the city, has emerged as one of China's top winter travel destinations, attracting tourists from around the globe. (Xinhua/Zhang Tao) People have fun among snowmen in front of a shopping mall in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 3, 2025. Harbin, with many snow sculptures across the city, has emerged as one of China's top winter travel destinations, attracting tourists from around the globe. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) People pose for photos with a snowman at a farm of Beidahuang Group in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 4, 2025. Harbin, with many snow sculptures across the city, has emerged as one of China's top winter travel destinations, attracting tourists from around the globe. (Xinhua/Zhang Tao) People pose for photos with a snowman at a farm of Beidahuang Group in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 4, 2025. Harbin, with many snow sculptures across the city, has emerged as one of China's top winter travel destinations, attracting tourists from around the globe. (Xinhua/Zhang Tao) People pose for photos with a snow sculpture of "Binbin," mascot of the 2025 Asian Winter Games, at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 3, 2025. Harbin, with many snow sculptures across the city, has emerged as one of China's top winter travel destinations, attracting tourists from around the globe. (Xinhua/Zhang Tao) A boy poses for photos with a snowman at an ice and snow amusement park in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 4, 2025. Harbin, with many snow sculptures across the city, has emerged as one of China's top winter travel destinations, attracting tourists from around the globe. (Xinhua/Zhang Tao) An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 3, 2025 shows a giant snowman at a dock in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. Harbin, with many snow sculptures across the city, has emerged as one of China's top winter travel destinations, attracting tourists from around the globe. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 3, 2025 shows people visiting a giant snowman near the Qunli music park in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. Harbin, with many snow sculptures across the city, has emerged as one of China's top winter travel destinations, attracting tourists from around the globe. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) People pose for photos with a snowman at a farm of Beidahuang Group in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 4, 2025. Harbin, with many snow sculptures across the city, has emerged as one of China's top winter travel destinations, attracting tourists from around the globe. (Xinhua/Zhang Tao) An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 3, 2025 shows people visiting a giant snowman at a dock in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. Harbin, with many snow sculptures across the city, has emerged as one of China's top winter travel destinations, attracting tourists from around the globe. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) A woman poses for photos with a snowman at a dock in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 3, 2025. Harbin, with many snow sculptures across the city, has emerged as one of China's top winter travel destinations, attracting tourists from around the globe. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) A visitor has fun among snowmen at a farm of Beidahuang Group in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 4, 2025. Harbin, with many snow sculptures across the city, has emerged as one of China's top winter travel destinations, attracting tourists from around the globe. (Xinhua/Zhang Tao) People pose for photos with snowmen at a farm of Beidahuang Group in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 4, 2025. Harbin, with many snow sculptures across the city, has emerged as one of China's top winter travel destinations, attracting tourists from around the globe. (Xinhua/Zhang Tao) A visitor poses for photos with a snow sculpture of "Nini," mascot of the 2025 Asian Winter Games, at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 3, 2025. Harbin, with many snow sculptures across the city, has emerged as one of China's top winter travel destinations, attracting tourists from around the globe. (Xinhua/Zhang Tao) An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 3, 2025 shows people walking past snowmen at the entrance of Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Expo in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. Harbin, with many snow sculptures across the city, has emerged as one of China's top winter travel destinations, attracting tourists from around the globe. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) People pose for photos with snowmen "Dongdong" and "Beibei" in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 3, 2025. Harbin, with many snow sculptures across the city, has emerged as one of China's top winter travel destinations, attracting tourists from around the globe. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) People pose for photos with snowmen at a farm of Beidahuang Group in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 4, 2025. Harbin, with many snow sculptures across the city, has emerged as one of China's top winter travel destinations, attracting tourists from around the globe. (Xinhua/Zhang Tao) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Curry shrimp and congee is one of the offerings at Oakland's new brunch restaurant the Peach. The restaurant is the latest from the owner of local hotspot Jo's Modern Thai. Erin Ng/Provided by Ruby Virchow December brought East Bay burger lovers reason to rejoice. Oh G Burger and a reborn Malibus Burgers were some of the new places on diners radars as 2024 came to a close. Other exciting arrivals include a new Asian American brunch restaurant, a Vietnamese coffee specialist in Berkeley, and a wine bar where you pair a book with a glass. Click here for a list of notable East Bay restaurants that opened in November 2024. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Asian American brunch spot debuts The owner of Jos Modern Thai in Oakland has a new restaurant, the Peach, where brunch classics come together with Asian flavors. Bite into lobster toast with a Thai basil aioli, a laab smashburger, and a curry shrimp and congee a reimagining of shrimp and grits. William Tsui of acclaimed bar Viridian developed the bar program which features low-proof cocktails, beer and wine. 3257 Lakeshore Ave. Oakland. thepeachbrunch.com Smash burger from Oh G Burger in Oakland. The restaurant opened a second location in Berkeley in December. Cesar Hernandez / The Chronicle Smashburger outfit quickly growing Oh G Burger, one of the Bay Areas best burger arrivals of the year, according to Chronicle associate restaurant critic Cesar Hernandez, has a new location in Berkeley. Bulgogi burgers with a sweet glaze and a slightly spicy ssamjang-spiked aioli headline the menu, which also includes classic burgers stacked with patties and cheese. The first Oh G Burger location opened in Oakland in October. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 1823 Solano Ave. Berkeley. ohgburgers.com Hyped fried chicken arrives Under the same roof as Oh G Burger is Los Angeles chicken spot Chimmeliers first Bay Area location. Owner Dustin Lee told the Chronicle he was motivated to open a location after a wildly successful two-day pop-up. Staple items include crunchy wings with a variety of sauces with Korean flavors and chicken burgers. 1823 Solano Ave. Berkeley. chimmelierusa.com New Mexican restaurant opens in Uptown Oakland The space formerly home to Calavera has a new tenant. Mixe, a new Mexican restaurant with an espresso and mezcal bar opened in early December. Yelp users share the menu includes flautas stuffed with a choice of potato or shrimp, rib eye with chimichurri, tlayudas and a molcajete filled with carne asada, grilled shrimp, chicken and nopales. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Malibu's Burgers is back in Oakland following a departure from its Piedmont Avenue location last year. Soleil Ho / The Chronicle Beloved burgers return Oaklands plant-based burger restaurant Malibus Burgers is slinging its plant-based stacks in the town once again. Malibus returned in early December nearly a year after closing its Piedmont Avenue location with the same hit menu of vegan burgers such as the Tasha Grande, a house riff on the Big Mac, tots covered with faux cheese and vegan milkshakes with flavors like ube-chocolate. The burger restaurant takes over the long vacant space where Hi Felicia previously operated. More milky coffee in the East Bay Find banh mi and Vietnamese coffee drinks at Binge Coffee House, just a short walk away from the UC Berkeley campus. The menu offers classic ca phe sua da, and egg coffees, along with matcha lattes and tea drinks. Sandwiches include banh mi with fillings like grilled pork, lemongrass tofu and cold cuts; while snack choices include popcorn chicken, pandan waffles and egg rolls. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 2199 Bancroft Way, Berkeley. instagram.com/bingecoffeehouse Meat platter from Horn BBQ Cesar Hernandez Noted barbecue restaurant expands Barbecue specialist Matt Horn launched a new location of his Horn Barbecue restaurants in Lafayette in December. The new branch features classics like beef and pork ribs, brisket, hot links and pulled pork. The arrival takes over the restaurant space thats been home to local favorites Bos Barbecue and All the Smoke. Horn announced the surprise mid-December arrival on his social media. 3422 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette. hornbarbecue.com Advertisement Article continues below this ad Japanese restaurant arrives East Bay Nosh reports Orinda has a new spot for sushi and sake. Named Sake Blue, the restaurant offers a menu full of Japanese restaurant staples like sushi rolls, sashimi cuts and bowls of udon and ramen. 1 Camino Sobrante, Suite 6, Orinda. sakeblueorinda.com Book Society is a new wine bar and bookstore in Berkeley's Elmwood neighborhood. Owner Laura Guzman envisions a community space with events, book and wine pairings, snacks and more. Yalonda M. James/The Chronicle A treat for book and wine lovers Book Society welcomed customers looking to enjoy book and wine pairings in December. The wine bar-bookstore mashup features eight rotating wines with pours by the glass and half glass, as well as tasters. Customers can enjoy their selections literary and liquid on comfortable velvet couches and chairs. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre is the top contender to become Canada's new prime minister following Justin Trudeau's resignation on Monday. Poilievre, 45, has a 92 percent chance of becoming Canada's next prime minister in October's elections, according to Polymarket. As expected, Trudeau, 53, resigned on Monday, raising questions about who would take over the ruling Liberal Party, or if power could switch to the Conservatives in an election that must be held by late October. In Canada's political system, the prime minister is not elected directly, but chosen by the members of the majority party in parliament currently the left-leaning Liberals. But as the Liberal party struggles in the polls, that could change in October's parliamentary elections. If the Conservatives obtain parliamentary majority, they will place their leader Poilievre as prime minister. Trudeau will remain in power until his party selects a new leader, which they will need to do before general elections in the fall that polls forecast Conservatives winning. It comes as US president-elect Donald Trump returns to the White House, threatening huge tariffs on its northern neighbor and even offering suggesting that Canada could become America's 51st state. Poilievre has previously said Canada needs an immediate election and requires a prime minister who can face Trump from a position of strength. Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday in Ottawa Poilievre, 45, has a 92 percent chance of becoming Canada's next prime minister in October's elections, according to Polymarket 'We cannot have a chaotic clown show running our government into the ground,' he said. Trudeau's departure after nine years' in office left the party without a permanent head at a time when polls show the Liberals will badly lose to the Conservatives in the 2025 election. An increasing number of Liberal parliamentarians, alarmed by a series of gloomy polls, had publicly urged Trudeau to quit. Other possible successors that have been floated in last months include Trudeau's ex-finance chief Chrystia Freeland and banking boss Mark Carney. DailyMail.com takes a look at the contenders for Canada's top job. Pierre Poilievre Pierre Poilievre has led the Conservatives since 2022 Poilievre has led the Conservatives since 2022 and is a key candidate to replace Trudeau if voters boot the Liberals out of office in this year's election. He campaigns for more oil and gas production and against Trudeau's botched immigration policy, which led to hundreds of thousands of arrivals, straining an already overheated housing market. The Conservatives currently hold a 21-point lead over the Liberals. Online gambling sites give Poilievre even better odds at becoming the country's leader this year. Poilievre says he could increase Canada's exports to the US and strike a 'great deal' with Trump, who has vowed to use punishing tariffs on Ottawa as a way to reduce a trade deficit. Speaking with right-wing Canadian influencer Jordan Peterson this month, Poilievre said he would quickly greenlight new oil refineries, liquefied natural gas plants, nuclear facilities and hydropower schemes. In the interview, he said Trump 'negotiates very aggressively, and he likes to win, but in the end, he doesn't appear to have a problem if his counterparty also wins.' 'And so I think that we can get a great deal that will make both countries safer, richer, and stronger,' he added. Chrystia Freeland Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his then-ally Chrystia Freeland The former Finance Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of Canada, Freeland among Truedua's key political allies until she recently resigned from the cabinet of her increasingly embattled and unpopular boss. She pushed back against Trudeau's proposals for more spending, accusing him in a letter of 'political gimmicks' rather than focusing on what was best for the country of 40 million people. Freeland, a former journalist, is a huge figure in Canadian politics, and has been hailed as one of the few people who could save the Liberals from a massive looming electoral defeat. The married mom-of-three from Alberta speaks five languages and studied at Harvard University and the University of Oxford. Dominic LeBlanc Dominic LeBlanc, 57, is a close ally of Trudeau and has held a number of key cabinet roles Seasoned Liberal politician Dominic LeBlanc is a close ally of Trudeau and was brought in as Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs to replace Freeland, who abruptly resigned last month. The 57-year-old is a close friend and ally of Trudeau and has been in a number of key cabinet roles since the prime minister swept to power in 2015. According to reports, Trudeau has already discussed with LeBlanc whether he would be willing to step in as interim leader and prime minister. But that plan was deemed unworkable if LeBlanc plans to run for the leadership, a source said. Mark Carney Thanks to his background in global banking, Carney is seen as an asset for a Canada Carney, the former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor, is positioning himself to run in a potential Liberal party leadership battle should Trudeau resign. He's long been touted as a potential leader for Canada. In recent days, he's reportedly fielded dozens of calls to Liberal politicians who view him as a potential replacement for Trudeau. His background in banking and finance is seen as an asset for a country that could soon be fighting a tariff war with Trump's America. The 59-year-old studied at Oxford University and Harvard University and previously worked at Goldman Sachs. Carney serves in a number of philanthropic and business roles, including as chair of Brookfield Asset Management and Bloomberg Inc. Vice President Kamala Harris released a video Monday morning saying she would uphold her Constitutional duty to certify the results of the 2024 election. 'Today at the United States Capitol, I will perform my Constitutional duty as vice president of the United States to certify the results of the 2024 election,' Harris said. 'This duty is a sacred obligation, one I will uphold guided by love of country, loyalty to our Constitution and my unwavering faith in the American people.' And as promised, she sat front-and-center as Congress certified President-elect Donald Trump's win over her own candidacy. It marks a final humiliation after Trump beat the Democratic nominee in all seven swing states after she took over the top of the ticket from President Joe Biden in late July. 'The peaceful transfer of power is one of the most fundamental principles of American democracy,' Harris said in the video. 'As much as any other principle, it is what distinguishes our system of government from monarchy and tyranny.' She alluded to the January 6th Capitol attack on the riot's fourth anniversary. 'As we have seen, our democracy can be fragile,' she noted. 'And it is up to then each one of us to stand up for our most cherished principles and to make sure in American our government always remains of the people, by the people and for the people.' Harris isn't the first vice president to have to chair the session overseeing an election loss. Vice President Kamala Harris released a video Monday morning saying she would uphold her Constitutional duty to certify the results of the 2024 election . Vice President Kamala Harris (left) gavels in the joint session of Congress to certify the win of President-elect Donald Trump alongside newly reelected House Speaker Mike Johnson (right) Democratic Vice President Al Gore was in the same position after losing the Electoral College vote - but not the popular vote - to Republican George W. Bush after the 2000 election, which went down to one swing state - Florida. Gore chaired the session, as did Vice President Richard Nixon when he lost the 1960 election to Democrat John F. Kennedy. When Vice President Hubert Humphrey lost the 1968 election to Nixon, he skipped the session on January 6th to attend the funeral of the first U.N. secretary general. Several vice presidents also had to chair the session after voters decided against keeping them in that position for a second term. That includes Vice President Mike Pence. Trump wanted Pence to use his role as chairman of the joint session to toss out results from swing states that Biden won as part of his broader effort to overturn the 2020 election. Pence refused and remains a persona non grata in Trumpworld. Trump chose Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance to replace Pence on the 2024 presidential ticket. President George H.W. Bush's No. 2, Vice President Dan Quayle, had to oversee the session when they lost reeelection in 1992, as did President Jimmy Carter's Vice President Walter Mondale. Reporters snap photos of Vice President Kamala Harris as she walks to the House chamber Monday to certify the election of President-elect Donald Trump, her 2024 opponent Vice President Kamala Harris smiles as she arrives in the House chamber to certify the election win of President-elect Donald Trump. Monday's counting went smoothly unlike four years ago when it was interrupted by the violent Capitol attack Vice President Kamala Harris is captured arriving to the House chamber Monday as she chairs the session to certify the win of her 2024 opponent, President-elect Donald Trump During the Senate ceremonial swearing-in ceremonies on Friday, the son of Sen. Ruben Gallego went viral for telling the vice president that he wished she would have won the 2024 election. 'You know what, sweetheart?' Harris responded to 8-year-old Michael. 'Don't worry about it, because there's still so much work to do.' She asked the youngster if he knew what 'defeated' meant. 'Are we defeated? Nope,' Harris said. 'We're not defeated.' President Joe Biden marked the anniversary of the January 6 attack in the U.S. Capitol with an op-ed where he slammed the insurrectionists who brought violence to Washington four years ago. But the president did not mention President-elect Donald Trump by name or accuse him of a role in the attack. It comes as lawmakers are certifying the presidential election of Trump in a peaceful transition of power on Monday that was not afforded to Biden four years ago. In his op-ed in the Washington Post, the 82-year-old president wrote that four years ago 'democracy was put to the test and prevailed.' Biden wrote how lawmakers and staff on Monday were working to certify the election and Capitol Police were standing by as Vice President Kamala Harris presided. 'For much of our history, this proceeding was treated as pro forma, a routine act. But after what we all witnessed on Jan. 6, 2021, we know we can never again take it for granted,' Biden wrote. 'Violent insurrectionists attacked the Capitol, threatened the lives of elected officials and assaulted brave law enforcement officers,' he continued. 'We should be proud that our democracy withstood this assault. And we should be glad we will not see such a shameful attack again this year,' Biden wrote. President Biden marked four years since the violent attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021 with an op-ed in which he said the day should be remembered as one where democracy was tested but prevailed The president warned that there is an effort to rewrite and even erase the violent actions on that day. Officials estimate at least 2,000 Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol on that day after the president-elect lied that the 2020 election was stolen. Some of the rioters violently beat law enforcement officers attempting to protect the U.S. Capitol while others vandalized property. Video showed insurrectionists chanted 'Hang Mike Pence' for his role in certifying the election as they marched. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle were rushed to safety as terrified staffers who did not flee in time barricaded themselves in offices. In the weeks after the attack, five police officers who had served at the Capitol on Jan. 6 died. Four pro-Trump protesters also died including one who was shot by an officer as insurrectionists tried to breach the House chamber. Law enforcement officers attempt to hold back rioters attacking the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021 Trump supporters clashing with police as they stormed the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021 Supporters of Trump gathered across from the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021 'In time, there will be Americans who didnt witness the Jan. 6 riot firsthand but will learn about it from footage and testimony of that day, from what is written in history books and from the truth we pass on to our children,' Biden wrote. 'We cannot allow the truth to be lost.' The president said the country owes it to those who founded the U.S., fought for it and died for it not to forget and should commit to remembering January 6, 2021 every year as the day 'when our democracy was put to the test and prevailed.' 'We should never forget it is our democracy that makes everything possible our freedoms, our rights, our liberties, our dreams. And that it falls to every generation of Americans to defend and protect it,' Biden wrote. Biden meeting with Trump in the Oval Office at the White House on November 13 after he won the November election Trump speaking to supporters at the Ellipses near the White House on January 6, 2021 before rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol in an attempt to stop the certification of the 2020 election The president vowed as he prepares to leave office that he is 'determined to do everything I can to respect the peaceful transfer of power and restore the traditions we have long respected in America.' He noted that he has invited Trump to the White House on the morning of January 20, a courtesy he did not receive from the president-elect back in 2020. Biden will also attend Trump's inauguration later that day after Trump did not attend his inauguration when Biden won the election. Notably, the president did not mention Trump by name in his op-ed, instead referring to him as the 'incoming president' and Harris' 'opponent.' Plans to bulldoze a precious orchard filled with century-old fruit trees to make way for a green off-road busway have been attacked as hypocrisy by opponents. Officials want to chop down 520 apple, pear and plum trees, including six Bramleys that date back to the 1920s, at Coton Orchard near Cambridge. A further 500 poplar, ash and oak trees stand at the site. Greater Cambridge Partnership a controversial body made up of elected representatives from three local councils claim the 230 million guided busway would benefit the environment as it would use electric vehicles and reduce congestion. Critics argue a vital habitat will be destroyed when an alternative route alongside existing roads would serve the same purpose. They also say the busway duplicates elements of the East West Rail project, which will link Oxford to Cambridge. Anna Gazeley, whose family owns most of the orchard, branded the scheme wasteful and destructive. She said: The GCPs proposed Cambourne to Cambridge busway, sold as green with promises of electric buses and active travel, falls far short of its claims. Hundreds of mature trees some in Coton Orchard, others across four wildlife sites face destruction for a concrete bus road and another M11 bridge. These habitats, formed over decades, cannot be replaced by token planting. Fragmented, theyll collapse, taking with them the web of life they support. The Bramley tree in Coton Orchard in Cambridge. GCP want to obtain the land which includes the 1922 Bramley recognised as a Champion Tree by the Tree Register as the second largest of its kind ever recorded in the UK Anna Gazeley is the owner of Coton Orchard in Cambridge - where a council has denied a tree preservation order for 100-year-old apple trees over a new controversial busway The proposed controversial bus road would rip through Coton Orchard, a 60-acre site which dates back to 1922. It is the eighth largest traditional orchard in the country James Littlewood, chief executive of local charity Cambridge Past, Present and Future (CPPF), which also owns some of the targeted land, added: Some of the trees are over 100 years old and to recreate that habitat would take 60-70 years. The main point here is they can avoid doing this by building the bus lane next on land thats already owned by the council because its part of the highway verge. GCP want to obtain the land which includes a 1922 Bramley recognised as a Champion Tree by the Tree Register as the second largest of its kind ever recorded in the UK - using compulsory purchase orders and aim to have the route operational by the end of 2027. However, nearly 23,000 people have signed a change.org petition against it and CPPF is raising 100,000 to challenge the plan at a Planning Inquiry. Comments from petition signatories include one that says: The GCP seem to have no interest in what local people want or need. It is time they were disbanded. Another wrote: Cutting down an orchard in the name of protecting the environment and the planet is the height of short-sightedness, not to say hypocrisy. Campaigners claim South Cambridgeshire District Council officers avoided issuing Tree Protection Orders (TPOs) on the site because the issue was a hot potato. The application was eventually turned down after 275 days by director of planning Stephen Kelly using delegated powers. A decision should take no more than 12 weeks. The GCP, a quango which consists of Cambridgeshire County Council, Cambridge City Council and South Cambs District Council that is in charge of the citys infrastructure projects, has been criticised as cycle routes, over-complicated roundabouts and bus lanes have sprung up, with locals claiming they cause more congestion and are killing businesses. David Alderman of Tree Register awarding Bramley 'Champion Tree' being second largest ever recorded in the British Isles The Tree Register measures Bramleys - orchard owner Anna Gazeley said the trees had been 'sacrificed at the altar of expediency' Critics argue a vital habitat will be destroyed when an alternative route alongside existing roads would serve the same purpose Campaigners have started legal action to stop the plans to fell more than 500 trees in one of Britain's rarest orchards Privet hawk moth found in trap under Bramley trees in Coton Orchard which could soon be destroyed A South Cambs District Council spokesman said: The trees are within the identified line of a proposed public transport corridor currently being assessed by the government through a Transport and Works Act Order (TWAO) application. In the event that the TWAO proposals are approved by the government next year, the permission would override protection provided by a TPO. On that basis, and in line with the governments published guidance, making a TPO would not therefore achieve the objectives of protecting the trees. If Donald Trump thinks prying away Greenland from Denmark will be easy, King Frederik sent a message with a big club and a Polar Bear to disabuse him of the notion. Frederik, who succeeded the Danish throne after the abdication of Queen Margrethe II last year, has released a new coat of arms that reaffirms his kingdom's longtime claim the territory. The territory has been under Denmark's effective control since the 14th Century, but Donald Trump has once again revealed his interest in the U.S. buying or obtaining the territory, which lies between Canada and Scandanavia. The new royal coat of arms released by the crown dispenses with a historic use of three crowns to representing the historic union of Scandanavian nations. Instead, the new coat of arms shows an enlarged Polar Bear, as well as a ram signifying its dominion over the Faroe Islands, a self-governing part of the Kingdom. A pair of Nordic men with ripped physiques now hold fatter and more prominent clubs a Danish version of Teddy Roosevelt's 'speak softly and carry a big stick' rejoinder. The men are slightly more broad-shouldered, with bigger pectoral muscles, a wider torso, and taller stance, plus a bit more hair. The Polar Bear, in addition being displayed larger, has a long menacing red tongue. Word of the redesign spread on a day when Trump once again asserted his intention to expand the nation after bringing back both his ambitions for Greenland and threatening to retake the Panama Canal in a pre-Christmas message complaining about 'ridiculous' fees. The new flag issued by the King Frederik features a more prominent Polar Bear, in a signal of keeping Greenland within the realm. Two nordic men are also drawn as more more musclar and are brandishing bigger clubs Trump has said it is an 'absolute necessity' to acquire the island. He also also referenced ways to forge an expanded empire by issuing repeat statements about making Canada the 51st state. The symbolic statement of dominion over Greenland, a self-governing territory of Denmark and former colony, comes despite a separatist movement there. Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede gave a New Year's speech where he said 'we must work to remove the obstacles to cooperation which we can describe as the shackles of colonialism and move forward.' 'It is about time that we ourselves take a step and shape our future, also with regard to who we will cooperate closely with, and who our trading partners will be,' he added. The new royal coat of arms has a larger polar bear, signifying Greenland, an a ram signifying the Faroe Islands King Frederik X released the new coat of arms less than a year after taking the throne Donald Trump, set to be sworn in January 20, has said it is an 'absolute necessity' to acquire Greenland Egede has rejected Trump's offers to buy the island of 836,330 square miles (larger than Alaska) in 2019 and again last year. 'Greenland is ours. We are not for sale and will never be for sale,' Egede has said. 'It is important to signal from the Danish side that Greenland and the Faroe Islands are part of the Danish realm, and that this is not up for discussion. This is how you mark it,' Royal expert Lars Hovbakke Srensen told TV2. Trump continued to use the language of expansion as recently as Monday in an interview with Hugh Hewitt where he vowed to 'un-ban' President Biden's new protections of millions of acres of offshore lands from drilling. Speaking about the wealth of U.S. energy resources, Trump said: 'You know, we have something that nobody else has. I mean, nobody has, to the extent we have it, and it'll be more by the time we finish, because I'll be able to expand, you know, we're going to expand our country,' Trump said. This video is no longer available This video is no longer available This is the defiant moment a brave Iranian woman tore off a cleric's turban and draped it over herself after he scolded her for not wearing a hijab at an international airport in Tehran. The video, posted to social media by Iranian journalist Masih Alinejad, shows the unnamed woman shouting at the man in Tehrans Mehrabad Airport. After taking his white turban, she can be heard shouting over and over again: 'What's wrong with this?' She was then seen chasing the man down while screaming: 'What's wrong with this? Tell me!' Alinejad said of the woman: '[She] confronted a cleric harassing her for not wearing a hijab. 'In a bold act of defiance, she removed his turban and wore it like a scarf, turning oppression into resistance. 'For years, clerics have claimed their turbans and robes are sacred and untouchable, but this womans act of protest shattered that myth. Iranian women are exhausted and enraged by gender apartheid.' Iran has long been seen as a regressive nation with regards to its attitudes and policies towards women. The video, posted to social media by Iranian journalist Masih Alinejad, shows the as-yet-unnamed woman shouting at the man in Tehrans Mehrabad Airport Two Iranian women in November. Women in Iran could now face the death penalty or years behind bars if they break new morality laws The 2022 protests in Iran which shows an unveiled woman standing atop a car. Amnesty International has slammed the new laws claiming that women could be sentenced to death for sending videos of themselves unveiled to media outside of the Islamic Republic Last month, new laws which were passed by the hardline Iranian parliament introduced severe penalties for women in the name of promoting a 'culture of chastity and hijab'. These punishments are for those caught 'promoting nudity, indecency, unveiling or improper dressing' and could see Iranians handed fines of up to 12,500, flogging and prison sentences of up to 15 years for repeat offenders. This includes woman which it claims are promoting or propagating indecency, unveiling or 'bad dressing' to foreign entities, including international media and civil society organisations. If the Iranian authorities finds the offence has mounted to 'corruption on earth' the defendant could be sentenced to death under article 296 of Iran's Islamic penal code. Amnesty International slammed the new laws claiming that women could be sentenced to death for sending videos of themselves unveiled to media outside of the Islamic Republic. The human rights group said the law also appeared to provide immunity for anyone who wanted to carry out their 'religious duty' and enforce compulsory veiling on women. Businesses that fail to enforce the laws will also be subjected to harsh punishments or penalties. Diana Eltahawy, Amnesty's deputy director for the Middle East, told The Guardian: 'This shameful law intensifies the persecution of women and girls for daring to stand up for their rights following the Woman, Life, Freedom uprising. 'The authorities are seeking to entrench the already suffocating system of repression against women and girls while making their daily lives even more intolerable.' The new laws also sparked outrage among Iranian activists and journalists. Iranian human rights lawyers such as Saeid Dehghan went as far to claim it breaks article 9 of the Iranian constitution, which prohibits legislation that undermines citizens freedoms even in the name of national sovereignty. A Labour MP today blamed 'foreign interference' for a petition demanding a fresh general election gaining more than three million signatures. Yasmin Qureshi said that the appeal had also been 'hijacked' by the party's opponents, as it was debated by MPs. The petition, which accuses Labour of having 'gone back on the promises' the party made before July's election, was set up by Michael Westwood, a Tory voter who owns three pubs in the Black Country. He was in the Westminster Hall audience for the debate this afternoon, along with Piers Corbyn, the brother of former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn. Ms Qureshi, the MP for Bolton South and Walkden, told MPs petitions were usually used for particular issues of concern to people in the country. But there was uproar when she went on: 'It is not normally used as a mechanism to hijack and play party politics. 'In the last 14 years we saw crisis after crisis caused by the ill-formed policies and plans and the rank cronyism of the previous government. Unlike them we engaged in the process, we had debate, we did not commandeer a public petition to demand a new election. 'This petition has grown, some of it to do with a lot of misinformation, some of it to do with foreign interference you may laugh at it but that happens to be correct as well.' Yasmin Qureshi said that the appeal had also been 'hijacked' by the party's opponents, as it was debated by MPs. The petition, which accuses Labour of having 'gone back on the promises' the party made before July's election, was set up by Michael Westwood, a Tory voter who owns three pubs in the Black Country. He was in the Westminster Hall audience for the debate this afternoon, along with Piers Corbyn , the brother of former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn. The e-petition, which accuses Labour of having 'gone back on the promises' the party made before July's election, will be debated in Westminster Hall this afternoon Set up the online petition on Parliament's website on 20 November, the petition quickly went viral and was promoted on social media by Elon Musk, thought to be the world's richest man, who is an ally of US President-elect Donald Trump. The billionaire businessman shared the petition on X, the social media site he owns, claiming 'the people of Britain have had enough of a tyrannical police state'. But there were allegations that many of the signatures were not genuine, and had been filled in by malicious programmes based abroad. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch used Prime Minister's Questions in late November to taunt Sir Keir Starmer over the millions of people who were asking him 'to go'. But the PM shot back that there was a 'massive petition on 4 July in this country' that saw millions of voters support Labour at the ballot box. Mr Westwood voted for the Conservatives at last summer's general election and predicted 'tough times' ahead following Labour's Budget in October. Chancellor Rachel Reeves used her first fiscal package to hike national insurance for employers, which sparked a huge backlash among businesses. Explaining why he set up the petition, Mr Westwood told the BBC: 'The people that are currently in charge of the country, in my opinion, lied to get there.' Your browser does not support iframes. In their manifesto ahead of July's general election, Labour vowed to 'not increase taxes on working people' - including national insurance, income tax or VAT. Explaining why he set up the petition, Mr Westwood told the BBC: 'The people that are currently in charge of the country, in my opinion, lied to get there.' He added: 'To have my opinion and my thoughts put out there and to find out actually, quite a lot of people agree, I think it's fantastic. It just shows that you're not on your own.' Previously asked about the petition, Sir Keir ruled out calling another general election but said he was 'not surprised' some people who did not support Labour in July might want a second poll. The PM told ITV: 'Look, I remind myself that very many people didn't vote Labour at the last election. 'I'm not surprised that many of them want a re-run. That isn't how our system works. There will be plenty of people who didn't want us in in the first place. 'So, what my focus is on is the decisions that I have to make every day.' In its official response to the petition, the Government said: 'This Government was elected on a mandate of change at the July 2024 general election. 'Our full focus is on fixing the foundations, rebuilding Britain, and restoring public confidence in government.' A man accused of causing the death of a six-month-old baby in a multi-story car park while under the influence of drink and drugs has been pictured for the first time. Relatives of little Sophia Kelemen have told how 'a seemingly ordinary day turned into our family's worst nightmare'. Now Flaviu Naghi, 33, has been remanded in custody accused of a string of offences including death by dangerous driving following last Thursday's tragedy in Tenby, Pembrokeshire. He was also charged with driving without a licence and without insurance. Relatives have launched an appeal to repatriate Sophia's body back to her family's native Romania. Writing on GoFundMe, her aunt Adriana posted: 'Never in a million years would I have thought I would have to write a post like this. 'A seemingly ordinary day turned into our family's worst nightmare. 'A driver hit the pram in which little Sophia was in a supermarket car park. Flaviu Naghi who has been accused of causing the death of a six-month-old baby in a multi-story car park while under the influence of drink and drugs has been pictured for the first time Photo issued by Dyfed-Powys Police of 6-month-old Sophia Kelemen, from the Leigh, Manchester area Six-month-old Sophia Kelemen held by her mother. The baby was airlifted to the hospital with a broken pelvis and a brain bleed and was ultimately diagnosed with brain damage due to the impact 'The baby was airlifted to the hospital with a broken pelvis and a brain bleed and was ultimately diagnosed with brain damage due to the impact. 'Despite the efforts of the doctors, Sophia could not cope with the impact, the surgery, anaesthesia, the brain bleed and all the injuries were too much for her fragile heart, which eventually gave out. 'I hope to ease a very small part of my brother and sister in law's hurt and suffering and raise part of the necessary funds required for the funeral costs and repatriation, as this was an event no one could have ever expected or planned for, especially right after the Christmas holidays.' Both Naghi and Sophia's family are from Leigh, near Wigan, Greater Manchester. Naghi's wife has shared details of the fundraiser on social media. Relatives are seeking to raise almost 7,000. At the time of the tragedy in the seaside town, witnesses said they heard shouting and commotion in the car park, which is beside a Sainsbury's store. One told the Pembrokeshire Herald: 'I was in Tenby and saw the helicopter hovering, then heard loads of sirens and didn't know what was going on, then when I drove past the multi-storey in Park Road I saw loads of blue lights and people gathered. Flaviu Naghi, 33, has been remanded in custody accused of a string of offences including death by dangerous driving following last Thursday's tragedy in Tenby, Pembrokeshire Naghi was also charged with driving without a licence and without insurance. He will appear before Swansea Crown Court on 7th February 'It happened right near the motorcycle section of the car park, so the very front near Sainsbury's. 'This looks to be a very serious incident judging by the large emergency vehicle response.' Sophia is believed to have been visiting the popular resort with her family and friends when she was hit by a Nissan Qashqai. She was taken to hospital with critical injuries but died the following day. A spokeswoman for Dyfed Powys Police said: 'Sadly, we can confirm that a 6-month-old baby girl has died following a collision on the ground floor of the multi-storey car park in Tenby on January 2. 'Sophia Kelemen, from the Leigh, Manchester area, was taken to hospital but died of her injuries on January 3. Our thoughts remain with her family at this difficult time. They are being supported by specially trained officers. Six-month-old Sophia Kelemen held by her father. She is believed to have been visiting the popular seaside town with her family and friends when she was hit by a Nissan Qashqai Six-month-old Sophia Kelemen, from the Leigh, Manchester area, held by her father with her mother and elder brother 'Flaviu Naghi, aged 33, from Wigan, has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving, driving without a license and without insurance. 'He was charged and remanded to appear before Swansea Magistrates' Court on Saturday 4th January, where he was further remanded to appear before Swansea Crown Court on 7th February. 'He was also arrested on suspicion of drink driving and drug driving and has been released on bail for these offences.' Five of the six members of one of the most depraved Rotherham grooming gangs have been released or have parole hearings coming up, MailOnline can reveal. Just seven years after the gang was put behind bars for sexually abusing two girls they plied with alcohol and cannabis in 2017 in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, most of the men are free or have imminent parole hearings. The town was at the heart of the sex abuse scandal and a number of vile gangs were snared as part of a major police operation investigating the abuse and trafficking of up to 1,400 girls in the area. But despite widespread revulsion for their sickening crimes, three members of one Rotherham gang, who were jailed for offences that took place between 1999 and 2001 in the city, have already been released on licence. This is despite the three monsters who sexually abused young girls - Tayab Dad, Amjad Ali, and Matloob Hussain - being handed jail sentences of between 10 and 13 years for rape and sexual intercourse with a girl under 13. Two other members of the gang - Nasar Dad and Mohammed Sadiq - have been referred to the Parole Board and will be listed within the next few weeks for hearings that will be heard within months. A three person parole panel has the power to recommend the two men be released. If freed, this will just leave Basharat Dad, the ringleader of the vile group, who was caged for 20-years. The news will shock victims and pour fuel on the acrimonious debate that has sparked a series of national and international claims and counter-claims about the role of Sir Keir in the prosecution of sex abuse offenders. Tayab Dad (top left), Amjad Ali (bottom right), and Matloob Hussain (bottom left) have already been released. Just the ringleader, Basharat Dad (top right), will remain behind bars if Nasar Dad (top centre) and Mohammed Sadiq (bottom centre) are freed by the parole board in upcoming hearings Amid the on-going calls for a public inquiry into the scandal, multi-billionaire Elon Musk accused Sir Keir on his X platform of being 'complicit in the rape of Britain' during his tenure as director of public prosecutions (DPP) for failing to tackle grooming gangs. Senior Conservatives and Reform UK MPs have also spent the week calling for a national inquiry into child sexual exploitation. But at a press conference today Sir Keir hit back and attacked politicians and activists 'spreading lies and misinformation' over grooming gangs. He said: 'Those who are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible are not interested in victims, they're interested in themselves.' He said the online debate had 'crossed a line', resulting in threats against MPs, including Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips. Sir Keir went on to accuse the Tories of 'jumping on a bandwagon' to gain attention. Describing child sexual exploitation as 'utterly sickening', Sir Keir defended his record in office as DPP - saying he tackled the issue 'head on'. While DPP, Sir Keir introduced a special prosecutor for child abuse and sexual exploitation to oversee convictions against grooming gangs. PODCAST: Whistleblower Maggie Oliver on how she brought down the Rochdale grooming gangs Labour Safeguarding minister Jess Phillips has formally rejected repeated requests for a Home Office-led inquiry into historic child abuse in Oldham after the town's council voted on the matter earlier this year. She believes the council will be better placed to run any inquiry but victims of widespread sexual abuse in the region have criticised the government's response. Sarah Wilson was groomed and raped by paedophiles in Rotherham for five years from the age of 11 - with one attack taking place in a school playground. She wrote on X: 'Jess Phillips needs to hang her head in shame!!! Anyone who denies an independent investigation has a lot to hide.' The Parole Board confirmed the two new Rotherham gang parole hearings to MailOnline. A spokesperson for the Parole Board said: 'We can confirm the parole review of Nasar Dad has been referred to the Parole Board by the Secretary of State for Justice and is following standard processes. 'Parole Board decisions are solely focused on what risk a prisoner could represent to the public if released and whether that risk is manageable in the community.' The spokesperson added: 'We can confirm the parole review of Mohammed Sadiq has been referred to the Parole Board by the Secretary of State for Justice and is following standard processes. 'Parole Board decisions are solely focused on what risk a prisoner could represent to the public if released and whether that risk is manageable in the community.' A source with knowledge of the case said: 'It is astounding that five out of six members of this gang - who systematically abused two young and vulnerable girls - could be walking the streets again in early 2025. 'Most of them have served just seven years in jail before being quietly released back into society. It seems wrong that they have a second chance when their victims have to carry around the trauma all their lives.' The child sex ring, which included three brothers, was jailed for a total of 81-and-a-half years after five of the men were convicted at Sheffield Crown Court in February 2017 of sexually exploiting two young girls at flats in Eastwood, Rotherham. Basharat Dad may be the last gang member remaining in prison following parole hearings for two of his gang mates. He has yet to be referred to the parole board The offences date back to the late 1990s and early 2000s, when the girls were given alcohol and cannabis and intimidated into performing sex acts. A sixth man admitted before the trial to sexually abusing one of the victims. Brothers Basharat Dad, then 32, Nasar Dad, 36, and Tayab Dad, 34, were convicted of 16 offences between them. Basharat was jailed for 20 years after being convicted of six counts of rape, five of indecent assault and one of false imprisonment. Nasar was jailed for 14-and-a-half years for one count of rape, inciting indecency with a child and false imprisonment and Tayab was given 10 years behind bars for rape. Matloob, 42, and Mohammed Sadiq, 40, were both found guilty of sexual intercourse with a girl under 13. Hussain and Sadiq were both jailed for 13 years. Amjad Ali, 38, of Worksop, admitted having sexual intercourse with a girl under 13. He was jailed for 11 years. The court heard Girl A had sexual relationships with Basharat and Nassar Dad, and would spend time 'chilling' with them in the back room of their father's firework shop. The family owned a flat located above a precinct of shops in Fitzwilliam Road and she had consensual sex with both brothers twice at the flat. She was also raped twice at the flat by Basharat and Nassar on two separate occasions. Prosecutor Sarah Drake told the court that Girl A reported the offences carried out against her by the gang when she was 12-years-old, but no further action was taken against any of the men. She was interviewed again about all of the allegations in 2015. Under police interview in 2001, Girl A described how Basharat and Nassar made her feel like she was a 'prostitute'. On one occasion Basharat and Nassar locked the terrified 12-year-old girl. On one occasion Basharat and Nassar locked the terrified 12-year-old girl in the flat overnight, described as being extremely dirty, with no electricity or running water and she was left there until her mother came to rescue her the following day. 'The fact they could lock her in a flat in those conditions and walk away shows the contempt they had for her,' Ms Drake said, adding that their contempt towards Girl A was shown again under police interview in 2015 when Basharat described her as being a 'slag'. He told police: 'She's dirty, she will go with anyone.' And when interviewed by police about their sexual relationship in 2001 Basharat told officers: 'Rape, that's not rape, she's done that with a 26-year-old.' Ms Drake said: 'It was that contempt that made him feel like he could do that to her.' Girl B met all of the Dad brothers through a school friend when she was 13. She too would be taken to the backroom of the firework shop to 'chill'. Ms Drake told the court: 'You can be sure that Girl B went to the firework shop and had sex with Basharat in that firework shop after he had worn her down and taken away her freedom to choose. 'She wanted to chill but he was so persistent that she couldn't say no because he would go on and on until he got what he wanted and that if he didn't have sex it was a 's*** night' On one occasion Girl B was taken to a flat in Gleadless, Sheffield by Basharat. The court was told how the 13-year-old was plied with cannabis and alcohol, and that every time she would finish a drink Basharat would pour another one into her glass. This led to Girl B being so drunk that she vomited and had to be put to bed. The following morning Girl B woke up with both Basharat and his brother Tayib, who was not there when she passed out, in bed with her and quickly realised she had been raped. Ms Drake said: 'The Crown says something sexual happened in that bed, she was in no position to consent. She was, to use the colloquial phrase, out of it.' Girl A met Hussein when she was hanging around in Rotherham town centre when she was aged just 12 in 2000. She had sex with him once in her sister's bed when she was the same age. She reported the incident to police in 2001, but at that time she told officers she had sex with Hussein, then aged 25, in his car instead. After being questioned by police Hussein was released without charge in 2001. Tayab Dad and Amjad Ali were automatically released on licence half-way through their sentence. Under the current legal system, a prisoner serving a determinant sentence for a fixed length of time, will be released under the supervision of the probation service after serving half their term. Hussain was directed for release in May 2024 after a parole hearing and has been freed on licence. Basharat Dad, the gang ringleader, has not yet been referred to the Parole Board. At the conclusion of the trial in January 2017, there was a shout of 'Justice' from one of the victims, while Ali and Tayab shouted the Muslim creed 'Allahu Akbar'. Temporary Detective Chief Inspector Martin Tate said later: 'Today's hearing is the culmination of a lengthy and complex investigation into the sexual abuse and exploitation of vulnerable children in Rotherham nearly two decades ago. 'This is our third significant inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Rotherham and with the lengthy jail terms handed down to these individuals today, we have now put 18 criminals behind bars for over 80 years.' Nasar Dad (pictured) has been referred to the parole board and will be listed within the next few weeks for a hearing that will be heard within months Previously, MailOnline reported that three out of nine members of another notorious Rotherham grooming gang are using citizenship loopholes and claims to rights of a family life to mount legal challenges bidding to stay in the UK. Two of these, Qari Abdul Rauf, 54, and Adil Khan, 53, have been repeatedly told by the courts they will be deported to their native Pakistan - yet have pursued legal battles to remain, making the claim that they are now 'stateless' after renouncing their Pakistani citizenship. Fellow convict Abdul Aziz, known in the same gang as 'The Master', was also served with a deportation order after being released from jail - yet he managed to abandon his Pakistani citizenship just before a crucial court ruling and was told by British officials he stay after all. Operation Stovewood is a major police investigation into child sexual abuse and exploitation which took place in Rotherham, between 1997 and 2013. Cases related to the operation - the largest ever conducted in the UK into child sex abuse - are still coming to court. A family who fled Ukraine when Russia invaded in February 2022 recently learned that the 25-year-old son they thought was dead is alive and well. Valeriia and Roman Biletskiy, who live in Washington state with their other seven children, said saw their son Roman Jr in a photo of men who had just been released from a Russian prison. The parents revealed to multiple local outlets that they were told on December 30 that their son had been released from a Russian prison. According to a fundraiser set up to help Roman Jr's mother travel to Ukraine to bring him back to the US, Roman Jr was captured in May 2022 while defending civilians in the war-sieged city of Mariupol. The rest of the Biletskiy family left their home in the southern Kherson region of Ukraine in February 2022. The fundraiser claims that Russian troops rolled tanks into their agrarian town before killing their sister-in-law and torturing their 3-year-old nephew. 'The last two and a half years have been hard on us. We were worried about our son all the time,' Valeriia Biletskiy told KING 5 through an interpreter. 'We were worried about where he was and if they took him too far away, if they were torturing him. What if they killed him?' Roman Jr's parents first saw a picture of their son on a bus before receiving a phone call from him. According to his father, his first words were, 'Mom, don't cry. Mom, I'm at home. [We are] very happy.' Roman Jr's release appears to be part of a recent prisoner swap between Russia and Ukraine, in which 189 Ukrainians were freed. This included military personnel, border guards, national guards and two civilians, the Associated Press reported. Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy posted this picture of all the men released from Russian custody, which included Roman Jr. Roman Biletskiy Jr., a Ukrainian soldier who has been a Russian prisoner of war for over two years, was finally released last week in a prisoner swap. He is pictured on a bus with dozens of other POWs Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the United Arab Emirates for its help in brokering the deal. Russia's Defense Ministry said 150 Russian soldiers were freed from captivity as part of the exchange. Roman Jr's parents said their son is still recovering from the significant injuries he suffered during the war, which is another reason the family is raising money. Roman Sr told KIRO 7 that he struggled with leaving his son behind in Ukraine, adding that the family first fled to Poland before upending their lives to resettle in the west coast of the US. 'It was very hard for me to make this decision. But I understood in that moment, we probably wont go back to Ukraine soon and I was worried for my son, but as a man, I respected his decision,' Roman Sr said. 'I knew he was a warrior. I knew hes strong. I was sure that he could take care of himself although I was worried.' At one point the family was told in error that Roman Jr was dead. The horrible news came through an official letter from President Zelenskyy, according to the fundraiser. They later got confirmation that their son was alive in February 2023, when they saw a picture of him in a Russian prison. Roman Jr., pictured on the left, is pictured with his fellow soldiers Roman Jr's parents, Valeriia Biletskiy and Roman Biletskiy Sr, have been praying for their son's safe return ever since they got confirmation he was in a Russian prison in February 2023 Roman Jr. is pictured in this undated photo inside what appears to be a damaged building Roman Jr is pictured alongside four of his siblings. He was the only Biletskiy child to stay behind in Ukraine once the war broke out The public fundraiser for the Biletskiy family to help get Roman Jr back to the US has received $4,820 in donations The Biletskiys now run an art and gift shop in Orting. The shop's walls are adorned with Valeriia's art but also a portrait of her son. Income from the Ukrop-Art Gallery supports the family and local groups looking to send aid back to Ukraine. The public fundraiser for the Biletskiy family has raised $4,820 in donations so far. Elena Kadvany has been a reporter on the Chronicles Food & Wine team since 2021. She covers the ins and outs of the Bay Area food industry, from breaking news about the latest restaurant openings to investigative stories into wage theft and workers rights. In 2024, her food writing portfolio won second place in the Society for Features Journalism Excellence-in-Features awards. Previously, she covered restaurants and education for the Palo Alto Weekly; her work has also been published in Bon Appetit and the Guardian, and her reporting has been recognized by the California News Publishers Association. She can be reached at Elena.Kadvany@sfchronicle.com. A British holidaymaker left fighting for his life after his throat was randomly slashed in an Egyptian supermarket has thanked MailOnline for saving him - after our story about his plight embarrassed authorities into covering his medical bills. Relieved Belgin Seitmola, 34, is slowly making a miraculous recovery after the horrific attack before Christmas - which forced him to spend his birthday in a coma. In an emotional interview, which took place over text message due the extent of his injuries, the Romanian-born IT engineer said: 'Without your help I would have died. 'Thank you God and the doctors who resuscitated me.' Belgin, from Luton, Bedfordshire, was attacked in the popular tourist resort of Sharm El-Sheikh. Police have since informed him that a suspect has been caught. He had not taken out travel insurance and begged for public help as he launched a 25k GoFundMe page to help pay for a life saving operation and medical care. After we revealed his heartbreaking story last month, in which his mother Omer Sena claimed Egypt is not a 'safe place for tourists', the authorities made a u-turn. Belgin Seitmola, 34, was left fighting for his life in Egypt after a random attacker slashed his throat in a supermarket The Romanian-born IT engineer, who lives in Luton, Bedfordshire, has thanked MailOnline for saving him after our story about his plight embarrassed authorities into covering his medical bills Belgin is slowly making a miraculous recovery after the horrific attack before Christmas - which forced him to spend his birthday in a coma Relieved Belgin, who had been unable to pay his own bills, said: 'The Egyptian government said they are going to pay for everything, my treatment, and maybe the repatriation. 'I thank them for doing this and to MailOnline for helping me too. My story has made them change their mind. 'Without your help I would have died.' From his hospital bed Belgin, who can still not talk but can now swallow after vital surgery, said: 'They don't want to lose Brits coming here as a holiday destination.' He vowed: 'I'm never going to travel without travel insurance, you never know what will happen.' Belgin underwent a tracheotomy operation which later infected his chest and momentarily stopped his heart. He spent his birthday on December 28 in a coma after being put into assisted, mechanical ventilation. Touchingly, his mum and hospital staff still celebrated the occasion at his bedside, singing Happy Birthday, and bringing cakes and cards onto the ward. Belgin was brutally attacked on December 6 during a sunshine pre-festive break in the Red Sea resort of Sharm El-Sheikh Belgin is looking to raise 25,000 to assist with his medical bills and psychological support He said: 'I couldn't celebrate my birthday as I was in a coma. I wanted to celebrate and my family and doctors made a video for me instead. 'My situation is very bad, I almost died, I am all tubed up and still cannot talk properly. I am very tired.' Belgin, who has no children, told how he was still 'in shock' and traumatised but brutal stabbing on December 06 which he described as a 'senseless act of violence.' He said: 'Even when a person known to me approaches I feel I should refuses them because I get scared.' The graduate information security engineer is hoping he may be well enough within weeks to be repatriated to Britain. He said: 'I need repatriation. I'm not sure if their government pays for that or if I have so that's why donations are necessary. 'The GoFundMe page has 12% of donations so far and I'm not sure if that is enough to get transported to the UK. 'After I get well enough to be discharged from hospital, I'll be allowed to travel by aircraft, hopefully in weeks. 'I'll have a check up at a UK hospital and then be allowed back home.' He added on the fundraising page: 'While shopping for groceries in a supermarket in Egypt, I became the victim of a senseless act of violence. The University of Bedfordshire graduate had been due to start a Masters' degree, but has put it on hold because of his 'horrible situation' 'I was stabbed by a criminal without any provocation or reason. This shocking incident has left me fighting for my life, both physically and emotionally. 'What started as a normal day turned into a nightmare that I could have never foreseen. 'The terror and pain of that moment will forever be etched in my memory. 'Strangers rushed to my aid, their kindness in stark contrast to the brutality of what I had just endured. 'I am grateful to be alive, but surviving such an ordeal has left me grappling with a deep wound - both visible and invisible.' The University of Bedfordshire graduate, who had been due to be starting a Master's degree, continued: 'As I write this, I am in a hospital, struggling to recover from my injuries. 'The medical bills are piling up, and I am facing a long road to recovery that will require not only medical treatment but also psychological support. 'The trauma of this event has been overwhelming, and the financial burden is becoming impossible to manage. Every day is a fighta fight to heal, to reclaim my life, and to find hope in a situation that feels unbearably dark.' Belgin's mum, who had pleaded for a miracle to save her 'fighter' son, told MailOnline how she continued to keep a round-the-clock vigil at his bedside Mrs Sena, 55, said: 'Last week my son was very sick. He couldn't breathe because he has a lot of mucus which blocks his air ways. 'The doctors are doing all they can to save my son now and now he has come round from an assisted coma.' While the Government has issued no recent travel warnings to the Red Sea hotspot, once deemed too unsafe for visitors amidst terrorism fears, she insists it is not a safe place for holidays now. Belgin told how donations given will help pay for his rehabilitation once he is back home. He posted: 'The costs of surgery, hospitalization, and ongoing treatments are astronomical. As I recover, I will need regular check-ups and possibly physical therapy to regain full function. 'Surviving such a traumatic event takes a toll not only on the body but also on the mind. I will need counseling and support to help me cope with the fear and anxiety that accompany such a violent experience.' He added: 'Due to my injuries, I am unable to work, and my financial situation is becoming increasingly dire. Your support will help cover my living expenses while I focus on recovery. While the Government has issued no recent travel warning to the Red Sea hotspot - once deemed too unsafe for visitors amidst terrorism fears - Belgin's mum claims it is not a safe place to holiday now 'And by sharing my story, I hope to raise and spread awareness about the issue of random violence and encourage a community dialogue about safety and support for victims. 'Your contributions will not only aid my recovery but also help others who may find themselves in similar situations. 'I understand that times are tough for many, and I do not take this request lightly. If you can find it in your heart to donate, no matter how small, it will make a significant difference in my life. 'If you are unable to contribute financially, sharing my story with your network would be incredibly helpful. 'Thank you for taking the time to read my plea. Your kindness and generosity mean the world to me during this challenging time. Together, we can turn this tragedy into a story of resilience and recovery. With heartfelt gratitude.' Child groomers will get tougher prison sentences as part of a crackdown on the 'most vile and horrific of crimes', Home Secretary Yvette Cooper announced tonight. In a statement to the House of Commons, Ms Cooper said the Government would legislate to make grooming an 'aggravating factor' when offenders are sentenced. 'The punishment must fit the terrible crime,' she told MPs, as she outlined a series of measures to tackle child sexual exploitation and abuse. Ms Cooper addressed MPs amid a furious row over the issue, which returned to the spotlight after Labour came under pressure to establish a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham. The Home Office has rejected Oldham Council's request in favour of a locally-led investigation, with the Government's decision criticised by the Tories and Reform UK. Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of X, has also hit out a senior Labour figures over grooming gangs in a series of posts on his social media site. The controversial businessman has branded safeguarding minister Jess Phillips, who denied the council's requests, a 'rape genocide apologist'. And he has taken aim at Sir Keir Starmer's record as head of the Crown Prosecution Service, as he continued his bitter feud with the Prime Minister. Child groomers will get tougher prison sentences as part of a crackdown on the 'most vile and horrific of crimes', Home Secretary Yvette Cooper announced tonight Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of X, has hit out a senior Labour figures over grooming gangs in a series of posts on his social media site Mr Musk has taken aim at Sir Keir Starmer's record as head of the Crown Prosecution Service, as he continued his bitter feud with the Prime Minister Ms Cooper said the 'most important inquiries and investigations' should be those carried out by the police to 'track those perpetrators down'. She also vowed to implement the recommendations of Professor Alexis Jay, who chaired the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse and penned a 2022 report. Ex-PM Rishi Sunak previously proposed tougher laws to tackle grooming gangs, but the Tories' Criminal Justice Bill was not passed by the Commons before July's general election. Ms Cooper said there was a need for 'new impetus and action' over child sexual exploitation as she outlined three key measures. She told MPs that Labour would 'make it mandatory to report abuse', which would make it 'an offence with professional and criminal sanctions to fail to report or cover up child sexual abuse'. 'The protection of institutions must never be put before the protection of children,' the Home Secretary said. 'This measure is something I first called for in response to the reports and failings in Rotherham 10 years ago. 'It's something that the PM first called for 12 years ago based on his experience as director of public prosecutions, and the case was clear then, but we have lost a decade, and we need to get on with it now.' Ms Cooper also told the Commons that Labour will 'legislate to make grooming an aggravating factor in the sentencing of child sexual offences, because the punishment must fit the terrible crime'. 'Third, we will overhaul the information and evidence that is gathered on child sexual abuse and exploitation and embedded in a clear new performance framework for policing so these crimes are taken far more seriously,' she added. Earlier today, Sir Keir mounted a robust defence of his record on child sexual exploitation and insisted he had tackled the issue 'head on' in his former role as director of public prosecutions. The PM accused opposition politicians of 'amplifying what the far-Right is saying' after falling to act 'for 14 long years'. Shadow home secretary Chris Philp tonight hit back at Sir Keir's comments as he repeated Tory calls for a national inquiry. He was met with shouts of 'shame' from the Labour benches as he told the Commons: 'It is not far-right to stand up for victims of mass rape.' 'Smearing people who raised those issues is exactly how this ended up getting covered up in the first place,' he added. In her response to Mr Philp, Ms Cooper said the Tories failed to take 'enough action' to tackle the issue of grooming gangs during their long spell in power. She said: 'The truth is there just has not been enough action to tackle these vile crimes. 'There hasn't been enough change to policies, to the way in which services operate at local level, and that is a deep failing that those changes have not taken place.' Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is using a walker on her road to recovery after suffering a fall and undergoing hip replacement surgery. The 84-year-old California Democrat was spotted on the floor of the House on Monday using the walker as she greeted fellow lawmakers. Pelosi was among members taking part in a joint session of Congress to certify the results of the 2024 presidential election. The former speaker could be seen sporting a green blazer and smiling as she made her way through the room and said hello to senators visiting the chamber. It was the second time Pelosi has been on the House floor since returning to Washington last week for the new 119th Congress. Her ongoing recovering comes after she took a tumble during a bipartisan congressional trip to Europe last month. Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi using a walker as she attended a joint session of Congress to certify the 2024 presidential election in January 6, 2024 On Friday, Pelosi received a warm welcome and applause from Democrats when she made her first appearance on the House floor since her surgery. During that visit to the floor, Pelosi was helped by two aides who held her arms as she made her way through the chamber shaking hands and taking photos with lawmakers and their families. Since her return to Washington, Pelosi has also been sporting flats rather than her preferred stilettos that she often wore before the fall and surgery. The former speaker took the nasty spill on a marble staircase in Luxembourg and was rushed to hospital on Friday, December 13. Her spokesperson revealed in a statement that weekend that she was then taken to Germany and underwent the successful hip replacement surgery. Former Speaker Pelosi was greeted by senators as she made her way through the House for the joint session of Congress. It was her second time back on the House floor since her return to Washington, and she used a walker to make her way through the chamber Pelosi walking up the aisle on the House floor on January 6, 2024 Pelosi was still recovering as lawmakers wrapped up their final activities before heading home for the holidays. But on Friday, she made her way through the nation's Capitol for the start of the new 119th Congress where lawmakers were voting for the next speaker. Republicans have one of the slimmest majorities in the House in U.S. history, so Democrats could wield some influence this Congress as long as they all show up and stick together. Pelosi and her fellow Democrats cast their ballots for Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Pelosi's attendance for the joint session on Monday came as lawmakers were certifying the election for President-elect Donald Trump. The process once received little attention in Congress, but that changed after the attack on January 6, 2021 when insurrectionists tried to prevent Congress from certifying the 2020 election for President Biden. 'We must never forget the extraordinary courage of law enforcement officers on January 6th who stood in the breach and stared down the insurrectionists to protect the Capitol, the Congress and the Constitution,' Pelosi said in a statement marking four years since the January 6 attack on Monday. 'We are forever grateful to these heroes whose valor ensured that democracy survived on that dark day and we continue to pray for the fallen, the afflicted and their families,' she added. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) returns to the floor of the House with some help after undergoing hip replacement surgery last month in Europe Pelosi was all smiles on Friday but was assisted by aides as she arrived in the House chamber Pelosi greeting lawmakers upon arriving in the House on Friday for the new 119th Congress Pelosi previewed her return to Washington following her surgery with a post on X on last Thursday as she traveled back east from California. 'Hi it's Nancy. I'm on my way to Washington to proudly represent the people of San Francisco in Congress,' Pelosi said to the camera while sitting in an airplane. She said in the video that she's honored to return to 'share our San Francisco values. Thank you for giving me that honor.' Before Congress returned, the California Democrat remained largely out of the public eye as she recovered. After her fall in Europe, an image of the former speaker went viral online which showed her standing minutes after taking the tumble. In it, she can be seen smiling as she stood in a pair of stilettos in the front row of the group of lawmakers, but she appeared to have a death-grip on her colleague's hand. Pelosi pictured December 13 before she was rushed to the hospital. She is seen here gripping the hand of Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas) after falling in Luxembourg Rep. Mike McCaul (R-Texas) noted former Speaker Pelosi was wearing 'very high' heels when she took a tumble in Europe last month. He said despite surgery she was 'doing well' That colleague, Congressman Mike McCaul (R-Texas) told reporters in Washington days later that he believed her sky-high heals were to blame. He recalled her being on the last step of a marble staircase without a railing when she lost her footing and went down. He said he helped her up and that's when they took the photo before she was taken to the hospital. The two suspects accused of killing General Hospital star Johnny Wactor in Downtown Los Angeles last year are expected to hear Monday if they will face trial. Robert Isaiah Barceleau and Sergio Estrada, both 18, are set to stand before Superior Court Judge Charlaine F. Olmedo on Monday to learn if there is enough evidence to move their case forward, FOX 11 reported. Barceleau and Estrada are two of four people who were arrested and charged following the May 25, 2024 incident, during which Wactor was shot and killed. Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon said that Barceleau is the one who allegedly pulled the trigger. Barceleau and Estrada are allegedly members of the Florencia 13 gang and were both hit with charges including murder, second-degree robbery and grand theft. Last month, more allegations were filed against Barceleau and Estrada, claiming that they committed the crime to benefit a street gang. As the alleged gunman, Barceleau faces a special circumstance allegation of murder during the commission of a robbery. He was also accused of personally and intentionally firing the weapon that shot and killed Wactor. The other two men, Leonel Gutierrez, 18, and Frank Olano, 22, were charged with lesser crimes in connection to the beloved actor's 'senseless' death. The two suspects accused of killing General Hospital star Johnny Wactor (pictured) in Downtown Los Angeles last year are expecting to hear if they will face trial Los Angeles Police Department previously released two images of the suspects and their getaway car (pictured above) while appealing to the public for help identifying them Barceleau, Gutierrez and Estrada were all booked on arrest warrants for murder, while Olano was arrested for allegedly being an accessory to the crime. Wactor, 37, was killed when he approached thieves stealing his car's catalytic converter at around 3:25 am. He had been leaving his side job at a 'cathedral style' nightclub called Sinners y Santos with his co-worker, Anita Joy. Joy, who witnessed the horrific shooting, said Wactor asked the men to leave and held up his hands to show he was not a threat. As they walked to their cars, they noticed three masked men near Wactor's vehicle, which was propped up on a jack. The suspects opened fire when they saw Wactor and Joy. One bullet struck Wactor in the chest. The actor was transported by paramedics to the hospital and pronounced dead. Three months after he died, the Los Angeles Police Department pointed to gang members as the alleged culprits. Anita Joy was with Johnny Wactor when he was killed Wactor had been leaving a bar he worked with a female co-worker, walking her to her around 3am Saturday in the city's Downtown district Gutierrez, pleaded guilty to attempted robbery and grand theft in connection to the actor's death, but denied being the one who actually pulled the trigger in August. His sentencing is scheduled for January 15. None of the other suspects have made a plea yet. 'The loss of this talented young actor, who was in the prime of his life and had so much to offer the world, is deeply felt by all of us,' Gascon said in August 2024. Wactor's relatives told DailyMail.com that the actor died trying to protect Joy from the bullets. Johnny's younger brother Grant confirmed his death to DailyMail.com in May 2024 and said it didn't surprise him to hear his sibling was putting others first at the time. Grant said that they were raised as 'southern gentleman' and his brother's last act was one of bravery. 'We're Southern, born and raised, and we would never let a female walk to their car by herself,' he told DailyMail.com. 'He came across them and he thought his truck was being towed. So he said something to the guys, like, "Hey, are you towing?" Pictured: Wactor on the set of General Hospital. He appeared on the show about 160 times from 2020 to 2020 'And then once he turned around, he saw what was happening and he put his coworker behind him. And that's when they shot him.' Wactor was the oldest of three siblings. He was originally from Charleston, South Carolina. In a series of Instagram posts recalling his final moments, Joy referred to Wactor as her friend of 'eight years' and described how he 'fought to stay alive' before dying in her arms. 'Everything happened in an instant,' Joy wrote. 'I've come to describe it as a glass of water that gets tipped over and you're scrambling to grab it and save it from spilling out completely but it just runs through your fingertips and is gone. 'Johnny was between me and the man who shot him - as I heard the shot ring into the night, he forcefully tumbled back into my arms and as I grabbed for him, I shouted, "Hunny, you ok?!" 'And he only responded, "Nope! Shot!" We toppled onto the street, where I pushed my legs under him and tried to hold his body up while screaming for help and screaming at him to stay with me. 'It was too close range, too extreme of a wound for him to survive it. But my God, he fought to stay.' Wactor appeared on over 160 episodes of General Hospital as the character Brando Corbin from 2020 to 2022. 'It was too close range, too extreme of a wound for him to survive it. But my God, he fought to stay,' Joy said of the gunshot wound that killed Wactor (pictured) Johnny Wactor (left) pictured with his family, who said they will remember him as a hero He was also a series regular on the 2013 NBC drama series Siberia, which lasted 11 episodes. Wactor did multi-episode arcs on TV shows like The OA, The Passenger, Westworld and Hollywood Girl. His first break into television came in a three-episode guest role on the Lifetime series Army Wives. He had also branched out into producing; his IMDb page had three upcoming projects listed. Wactor also wrote a short film called Broken Riders. Wactor's most recent work was in the horror anthology Dead Talk Tales: Volume I released early last year. Donald Trump, Jr. is headed to Greenland on a 'personal' trip with big diplomatic overtones after his father called buying the island for the U.S. an 'absolute necessity.' The visit, reported in the Danish press and confirmed by a source familiar with the trip, comes amid the returning president's interest in territorial acquisition. Trump Jr. is an advisor to his father and an honorary cochair of his transition, and has had his ear on key personnel picks, including the selection of running mate Vice President-elect J.D. Vance. 'Don is popping in for a quick day-long trip to shoot some fun video content for podcasting. He will not be meeting with any government officials or political figures,' the source told DailyMail.com. Don, Jr. remains an avid outdoorsman and hunter who doesn't mind visiting cold climates. However there are reports that the visit comes at the request of Erik Jensen, the minister of finance who backs independence for Greenland. The president-elect chimed in late Monday with his own statement tying the visit to his goal of bringing Greenland into the U.S. 'I am hearing that the people of Greenland are MAGA. My son, Don Jr, and various representatives, will be traveling there to visit some of the most magnificent areas and sights,' Trump wrote on his Truth Social site. 'Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our Nation. We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside World. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN!' he wrote. The country's prime minister, Mute B. Egede, meanwhile, has postponed a visit to meet with King Frederik who just rolled out a redesigned coat of arms depicting Greenland as part of Denmark's symbolic dominion. Egede's office attributed that merely to calendar gymnastics. The returning president has called the island vital to U.S. national security, and he has continued to speak about expanding the territory of the U.S. since his election. Greenland has mineral deposits and offers a strategic gateway to the Arctic, and has attracted the attention of China. 'For purposes of National Security and Freedom throughout the World, the United States of America feels that the ownership and control of Greenland is an absolute necessity,' Trump wrote when announcing PayPal cofounder Ken Howery as his choice for U.S. ambassador to Denmark. With threshing oar: Donald Trump Jr. is traveling to Greenland, after his father President-elect Donald Trump called acquiring the island an 'absolute necessity' Trump's push could all be part of his 'disruptive' approach to foreign policy, said Rebecca Pincus, director of the Polar Institute at the Wilson Center in D.C. 'The notion of buying Greenland gets a lot of attention. It's not a boring policy proposal, right? It's dramatic, it's bold. And so I think that can maybe cut through the billion policy proposals flying around Washington, D.C. at any given time. It can kind of catalyze attention and send a really clear signal that we need to do something about Greenland,' she told DailyMail.com. Visiting Greenland in January, she noted, is 'very tricky.' There aren't currently direct flights, and the temperature Monday afternoon was 22 degrees Fahrenheit. But the world's largest island has something to offer even if it's not for sale: virtually 'unlimited' hydropower due to its melting ice sheet, large mineral deposits, and strategic geography. King Frederik sent his own signal about the importance of Greenland with a big club and a Polar Bear and perhaps even a message to Trump. Frederik, who succeeded the Danish throne after the abdication of Queen Margrethe II last year, has released a new coat of arms that reaffirms his kingdom's longtime claim the territory. The territory has been under Denmark's effective control since the 14th Century, but Donald Trump has once again revealed his interest in the U.S. buying or obtaining the territory, which lies between Canada and Scandanavia. The new royal coat of arms released by the crown dispenses with a historic use of three crowns to representing the historic union of Scandanavian nations. Instead, the new coat of arms shows an enlarged Polar Bear, as well as a ram signifying its dominion over the Faroe Islands, a self-governing part of the Kingdom. A pair of Nordic men with ripped physiques now hold fatter and more prominent clubs a Danish version of Teddy Roosevelt's 'speak softly and carry a big stick' rejoinder. The men are slightly more broad-shouldered, with bigger pectoral muscles, a wider torso, and taller stance, plus a bit more hair. The Polar Bear, in addition being displayed larger, has a long menacing red tongue. Word of the redesign spread on a day when Trump once again asserted his intention to expand the nation after bringing back both his ambitions for Greenland and threatening to retake the Panama Canal in a pre-Christmas message complaining about 'ridiculous' fees. The new flag issued by the King Frederik features a more prominent Polar Bear, in a signal of keeping Greenland within the realm. Two nordic men are also drawn as more more musclar and are brandishing bigger clubs Trump has said it is an 'absolute necessity' to acquire the island. He also also referenced ways to forge an expanded empire by issuing repeat statements about making Canada the 51st state. The symbolic statement of dominion over Greenland, a self-governing territory of Denmark and former colony, comes despite a separatist movement there. Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede gave a New Year's speech where he said 'we must work to remove the obstacles to cooperation which we can describe as the shackles of colonialism and move forward.' 'It is about time that we ourselves take a step and shape our future, also with regard to who we will cooperate closely with, and who our trading partners will be,' he added. The new royal coat of arms has a larger polar bear, signifying Greenland, an a ram signifying the Faroe Islands King Frederik X released the new coat of arms less than a year after taking the throne Donald Trump, set to be sworn in January 20, has said it is an 'absolute necessity' to acquire Greenland Egede has rejected Trump's offers to buy the island of 836,330 square miles (larger than Alaska) in 2019 and again last year. 'Greenland is ours. We are not for sale and will never be for sale,' Egede has said. 'It is important to signal from the Danish side that Greenland and the Faroe Islands are part of the Danish realm, and that this is not up for discussion. This is how you mark it,' Royal expert Lars Hovbakke Srensen told TV2. Trump continued to use the language of expansion as recently as Monday in an interview with Hugh Hewitt where he vowed to 'un-ban' President Biden's new protections of millions of acres of offshore lands from drilling. Speaking about the wealth of U.S. energy resources, Trump said: 'You know, we have something that nobody else has. I mean, nobody has, to the extent we have it, and it'll be more by the time we finish, because I'll be able to expand, you know, we're going to expand our country,' Trump said. A January 6 rioter claims he crossed illegally into Canada to snowboard as he awaits a presidential pardon by Donald Trump. Antony Vo, 32, was sentenced last year to nine months in prison for his involvement in the 2021 riot at the Capitol after he admitted to 'storming' Congress with his mom on social media. Instead of reporting to jail in June, Vo tried getting political asylum in various countries including Vietnam, Belarus and Russia, he told the Toronto Star. When that did not work, he decided to illegally cross into Canada in July before applying for asylum and taking refuge at a Buddhist research institute in Alberta. He settled in Whistler, where he is spending his time snowboarding. Vo, from Indiana, told the Star he is now '99 percent sure' that president-elect Donald Trump will pardon him when he takes office on January. 'I really dont have any reason to doubt it ... its definitely a priority for him,' Von said. Trump has suggested in the past that he will pardon some of the January 6 rioters, telling CNN he is 'inclined to pardon many of them,' though not all of them. 'I cant say for every single one, because a couple of them, probably they got out of control,' he told CNN. Antony Vo was sentenced to nine months in prison for his involvement in the 2021 riot at the Capitol. He illegally traveled to Canada to wait for a presidential pardon from Donald Trump Vo shared the above image from Whistler, where is is awaiting a pardon or political asylum While Vo's claim of asylum is yet to be heard, it's unlikely it will be successful as Canada still considers the US a functional democracy. Currently Vo would most likely be seen as a 'fugitive from justice,' law professor at Queens University Sharry Aiken told the Star. Bu Vo said he intends to return to the US once he has been pardoned - and plans on putting up a fight if the US tries to extradite him before that. 'For good reason, Canada has mechanisms that prevent removal of people without some kind of process where the person says, "Im facing mistreatment in my home country, Im a political dissident and Im being subject to unlawful price persecution,"' he said. Vo claims that he and his mother only went inside the Capitol once police had cleared the rioters away - and that they left as soon as an officer told them to do so. However, Vo said online that he and his mom had 'helped stop the vote count (to certify president Joe Biden's 2020 win) for a bit.' He also wrote: 'President (Trump) asked me to be here tomorrow so I am with my mom LOL.' Vo is one of over 1,500 people across the US who have been charged with federal crimes related to the deadly riot. Vo is one of over 1,500 people across the US who have been charged with federal crimes related to the deadly riot Vo claims he and his mother only went inside the Capitol after police had cleared rioters out Hundreds of people who did not engage in destruction or violence were charged only with misdemeanor offenses for entering the Capitol illegally. Others were charged with felony offenses, including assault for beating police officers. Leaders of the Oath Keepers and the Proud Boys extremist groups were convicted of seditious conspiracy for what prosecutors described as plots to use violence to stop the peaceful transfer of power from Trump, a Republican, to Joe Biden, a Democrat. About 250 people have been convicted of crimes by a judge or a jury after a trial. Only two people were acquitted of all charges by judges after bench trials. No jury has fully acquitted a Capitol riot defendant. At least 1,020 others had pleaded guilty as of January 1. More than 1,000 rioters have already been sentenced, with over 700 receiving at least some time behind bars. The rest were given some combination of probation, community service, home detention or fines. The longest sentence, 22 years, went to former Proud Boys national chairman Enrique Tarrio, who was convicted of seditious conspiracy along with three lieutenants. A California man with a history of political violence got 20 years in prison for repeatedly attacking police with flagpoles and other makeshift weapons during the riot. And Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes is serving an 18-year prison sentence for seditious conspiracy and other offenses. Vo said online that he and his mom had 'helped stop the vote count [to certify president Joe Biden's 2020 win] for a bit' The Justice Department says prosecutors are still evaluating nearly 200 riot cases investigated by the FBI More than 100 January 6 defendants are scheduled to stand trial in 2025, while at least 168 riot defendants are set to be sentenced this year. The FBI has continued to arrest people on Capitol riot charges since Trumps electoral victory in November. The Justice Department says prosecutors are still evaluating nearly 200 riot cases investigated by the FBI, including more than 60 cases in which the suspects are accused of assaulting or interfering with police officers who were guarding the Capitol. January 6 trials, guilty pleas and sentencings have continued chugging along in Washingtons federal court despite Trumps promise to pardon rioters, whom he has called 'political prisoners' and 'hostages' he contends were treated too harshly. Now Trumps return to power has thrown into question the future of the more than 1,500 federal cases brought over the last four years. French prosecutors today claimed to have irrefutable proof that former president Nicolas Sarkozy arranged a corruption pact with the late Libyan leader Colonel Gaddafi. It was worth around 42million to Sarkozy, 69, prosecutors claim while Gaddafi wanted to see his oil-rich country rehabilitated after it was blamed for terrorist atrocities including the Lockerbie Bombing. Sarkozy, who faces up to 10 years in prison if found guilty, was notably suntanned when he took his place in a Paris dock on Monday afternoon. He had just returned from a holiday in the Seychelles with his third wife, Carla Bruni, the 57-year-old former supermodel. She was not in court, despite facing charges of her own in connection with the case which she also denies. Prosecutors alleged that Sarkozy accepted the millions in laundered cash from Gaddafi to fund his successful election campaign in 2007. Jean-Francois Bohnert, head of Frances National Financial Prosecutor's Office (PNF) said a 10 year investigation had led to Sarkozy appearing in the 32nd chamber of the Paris Criminal Court. The corruption pact was designed to improve relations with Libya, said Mr Bohnert. French prosecutors today claimed to have irrefutable proof that former president Nicolas Sarkozy (pictured) arranged a corruption pact with the late Libyan leader Colonel Gaddafi Prosecutors alleged that Sarkozy accepted the millions in laundered cash from Gaddafi (pictured) to fund his successful election campaign in 2007 He insisted the prosecution was not a political one and that Sarkozy had not been found guilty in advance. And, focusing on an element of the case, Mr Bohnert said: We have in the legal file proof that a total sum of 6 million (5million) left Libyan public funds and arrived in France through intermediaries. In turn, counsel for Mr Sarkozy, who was on trial with 12 other defendants, said all of them vehemently denied any wrongdoing. The charges were: Corruption, receiving stolen public funds, illegal campaign financing, and criminal association. Sarkozy was last month definitively convicted of bribing a judge in a separate case, meaning he was likely to be wearing an electronic tag under the trousers of his dark blue lounge suit. The PNF alleges that Sarkozy first requested financing during a visit to Libya when he was Frances Interior Minister in 2005. This led to the corruption pact between the politician and Gaddafi which saw suitcases full of cash being delivered by middlemen, it is alleged. Within a few months of his election in 2007, Sarkozy invited Gaddafi to Paris for a state visit and praised him as a great friend and Brother Leader. Muammar Al Qadhafi in Mali on December 12th, 1985 French President Nicolas Sarkozy, left, greets Libyan leader Col. Moammar Gadhafi upon his arrival at the Elysee Palace, in Paris, on December 10, 2007 Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy leaves during a break in a hearing on the first day of his trial The financing case was aided by the Mediapart investigative news site, which in 2012 published a document signed by Libyas intelligence chief which apparently proved the equivalent of 42million had been paid to Sarkozy This was while Libya was still being viewed as a pariah state because of the downing of PanAm Flight 103, with the loss of 270 lives, over Lockerbie, Scotland, in 2008.The assassination of WPC Yvonne Fletcher outside Libyas London Embassy four years earlier was also still causing outrage, especially as no-one was ever brought to justice for it. Gaffafis head of military security and brother-in-law, Abdallah Senoussi, had also been found guilty in absentia of an attack of a French DC-10 plane which left 170 dead. The financing case was aided by the Mediapart investigative news site, which in 2012 published a document signed by Libyas intelligence chief which apparently proved the equivalent of 42million had been paid to Sarkozy. Sarkozy insisted that the contract was a fake, but it was later ruled it can be used as evidence. The former head of states former ministers Claude Gueant and Eric Woerth have also been charged in relation to the allegations, and are in the dock. It was in 2011 that RAF and French Air Force jets led the mass bombing campaign that ended with Gaddafi being hacked to death by a mob. David Cameron was British Prime Minister at the time, and visited Libya with Sarkozy. There have been claims that Sarkozy wanted his old friend and ally dead because of his potential to produce incriminating evidence. It was in 2011 that RAF and French Air Force jets led the mass bombing campaign that ended with Gaddafi being hacked to death by a mob In this file photo taken on June 25, 2020, former French President Nicolas Sarkozy leaves the funeral's mass of late French Justice minister Pascal Clement at the Saint Peter church in Neuilly-sur-Seine Nicolas Sarkozy and former Libyan dictator Moamer Kadhafi pictured during the signature of 10 billion euros of trade contracts between the two countries, at the Elysee Palace in Paris on December 10, 2007 Carla Bruni (left, pictured with her husband in June 2024) is accused of being part of a 4million campaign dubbed 'Operation Save Sarko' a complex and allegedly illegal plan to try to keep her husband out of jail Libyan leader Moammar Gaddafi, right, and then French President Nicolas Sarkozy during the National anthems at the Bab Azizia Palace in Tripoli on July 25, 2007 Sarkozy has already become France's first ex-president to be tried for alleged crimes carried out in office. Within a few days of Sarkozy losing his presidential immunity from prosecution in 2012, fraud squad detectives raided the Paris home he shares with his third wife, the former supermodel Carla Bruni. In 2021, Sarkozy was found guilty of illegally funding his campaign for re-election and faced prison time. The verdict handed down at the Paris Correctional Court followed a five-week trial during which prosecutors said the politician was guilty of fiddling the books during his unsuccessful 2012 bid to become head of state. It followed Sarkozy already being given a three-year sentence for bribing a judge a conviction that was confirmed on appeal last month, as Sarkozy was told that he could serve his prison sentence while wearing a tag instead. Carla Bruni is meanwhile accused of being part of a 4million campaign dubbed Operation Save Sarko a complex and illegal plan to try to keep her husband out of jail. She has been charged with a range of corruption offences, including witness tampering in an organised gang, and could be imprisoned for a up to 10 years if found guilty in a separate trial. Like her husband, Ms Bruni denies any wrongdoing. Sarkozy's conservative predecessor as President of France, the late Jacques Chirac, received a two-year suspended sentence in 2011 for corruption, but this related to his time as Mayor of Paris. The last French head of state to go to a prison cell was Marshal Philippe Petain, the wartime Nazi collaborator. The Gaddafi trial is listed for three months, and is likely to end in early April. John Swinney started 2025 in supplicant mode - begging for the help of his enemies to approve the SNPs Budget. The First Minister must have overdone the festive sherry when he penned the humiliating speech he delivered yesterday. It was based on the bonkers contention that failing to back the SNPs financial plans would play into the hands of Elon Musk. Figure that one out, if you can, but the gist is that MSPs who dont vote for his Budget risk feeding the forces of anti-politics and of populism. He warned against MSPs voting it down simply to prove some nebulous and ultimately highly damaging political point. For good measure, he condemned posturing and intransigence of course, youd never catch Mr Swinney posturing, or being intransigent. Leave aside for the moment the supreme irony of an SNP leader accusing anyone else of populism and game-playing though he does deserve some credit for managing to say any of this with a straight face. Dismissing concerns about his governments spending agenda for the coming year as nebulous is as patronising as it is deeply telling about the SNPs mindset. It isnt nebulous to oppose punitive taxation to raise cash which never seems to get to where its needed if it did, we might not be saddled with failing schools and a health service locked in a downward spiral. And its perfectly legitimate indeed necessary to challenge the terms of the SNPs basket-case draft Budget, unveiled last month. The proposals for 2025-26 would see any Scottish worker earning more than 30,318 pay more income tax from April than if they lived elsewhere in the UK. Someone on a 50,000 salary would pay 1,528 more compared with the rest of the UK, rising to 3,332 at 100,000 and 5,963 at 150,000. Business leaders rightly fear this divergence, which includes a Scotland-only 45p income tax rate between 75,001 and 125,140, makes attracting and keeping senior staff harder. Last week we reported tycoon Sir Tom Hunters attack on the SNP for high taxes and red tape which he said had inflicted a decade of mismanagement on Scotlands economy. John Swinney claims that failure to back his budget will be a victory for 'populism' Was this critique also nebulous point-scoring which will play into the hands of populists - or was it a level-headed response to the enormous damage done by cack-handed separatists who couldnt be trusted to organise a tea round, let alone run an economy? Elsewhere in Mr Swinneys speech, he railed against thwarting a Budget which may make some politicians feel good at the expense of Scotlands NHS. He said opposing it would also be at the expense of Scotlands pensioners [and would] keep more children in poverty. Indeed, rejecting the Budget would be a political wrecking-ball when what Scotland needs is recovery. He was right on the second point - but the only wrecking-ball around is the anti-growth SNP, which until recently was in government with the Marxist Greens. Mr Swinney has resorted to a rather pathetic form of emotional blackmail by accusing his critics of abandoning pensioners and poor children. What he didnt mention was that child poverty has increased, and that the SNPs flagship Scottish Child Payment (SCP) is fantastically expensive - and woefully ineffectual. It will cost 471million by 2025-26 - but in September a damning study found no evidence that the payouts are effective. The Scottish Health Equity Research Unit said that even if the payments were working, Scotland would still be a long way from meeting its statutory target of reducing relative child poverty. Ramping up spending on the SCP (its current cost is 457million) is throwing good money after bad not for the first time. The solution is a stronger economy and jobs for the parents of poorer kids, many of whom are stuck on benefits. This toxic dependency culture didnt feature in Shona Robisons Budget, either because the SNP doesnt care about it or has no idea how to tackle it (or both). Mr Swinneys self-portrayal as a bold defender of pensioners is based on the claim that his government is bringing in a universal winter fuel payment after promising a devolved universal benefit to match the previous UK version. In fact, Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville announced a two-tier system giving most people 100 - instead of the 300 originally promised. Spin wont heat the homes of the pensioners who were hoodwinked by the SNP - yet Mr Swinney has the gall to warn his opponents against betraying the elderly. Maybe in the alternate universe where he and his colleagues have taken up residence, this hogwash makes some sort of sense - but to the rest of us it sounds like rank hypocrisy. Fag-packet plans for the abolition of the two-child benefit cap announced last month were intended to distract from the bigger news that your council tax is likely to increase, possibly by quite a lot. Ms Robison lifted the freeze but offered an unconvincing reassurance that the inevitable hikes neednt be too eye-watering. Council bosses are desperate to fill their coffers after years of local government under-funding but the freeze was only introduced in the first place because some of them greedily imposed double-digit increases. The dire financial situation is fuelled by endemic waste across a bloated public sector sustained by ever-higher taxes. Mr Swinney should take a break from his rambling pleas for support from political enemies he has demonised throughout his career and read Tory leader Russell Findlays blueprint to save taxpayers 1billion. Spending on devolved benefits is 1.3billion above Treasury funding because of more generous payments under the SNP. The Tories have identified 550million which could be cut from 6.9billion welfare expenditure from April. A further 100million would come from efficiency savings and slashing corporate waste, including duplicated back-office work in human resources, accounting and procurement. All government departments and quangos would make 5 per cent savings excluding the NHS, where any savings would go back into frontline care. And another 100million would come from scrapping wasteful pet projects including a 10million-a year network of pretend embassies overseas, foreign aid, baby boxes, free bus travel for asylum seekers, and the abortive National Care Service. Mr Swinney claims those who fail to back his Budget are implicitly undermining the health service - but fails to acknowledge that trimming the considerable fat in quangoland would free up cash for the beleaguered NHS. The First Minister is trying to rebuild bridges he helped to destroy in a bid to salvage a Budget which will do nothing to reverse nearly 20 years of managed decline. Failing to garner sufficient votes would trigger an early election - something the Nationalists badly want to avoid. Mr Swinney says he deplores populism - but many Scots would welcome more of it if it led to the SNP being kicked out of office at the earliest opportunity. A former schoolboy at one of Britains top public schools drowned in the Norfolk Broads after diving into the water following a heavy drinking session with an old school friend. Henry Keith, 25, who attended 61,500-a-year Harrow School in north-west London, disappeared under the water during the late-night dip, despite being a strong swimmer. A coroner concluded he may have banged his head while going into the water at Wroxham Broad on August 16 last year. His body was found nearby two days later. Sebastian Cator, a captain in the Royal Logistics Corps, told the hearing how his friend had undressed and entered the water headfirst. But he failed to resurface after diving off the rear of a launch that belonged to his father, just after it slowed to a halt. The Old Harrovian said he heard a scratching or tapping noise on the underside of the boat, adding: My immediate reaction was that he was trying to play a prank on me. I walked around either edge of the boat and could not find him. That was when I realised he was not playing a joke and began to panic. Mr Cator described how he called frantically for his friend a director at the Organic Pig Company, which was founded in 1998 - but called emergency services after getting no response, leading to a large, multi-agency search. Henry Keith, 25, who attended 61,500-a-year Harrow School in north-west London , disappeared under the water during the late-night dip, despite being a strong swimmer Henry Keith's family issued an emotional tribute to him after the inquest, saying: The loss of our precious Henry has created a huge void for our family and all the many friends who loved him dearly' Mr Keiths body was recovered from the water in an upright position just beneath the surface on August 18. Mr Cator told Norfolk Coroners Court in Norwich of his heartache and regret about events leading up to the loss of one of his closest friends, explaining how he constantly replayed what had happened in his mind. Asked by Mr Keiths brother, Edward, why he didnt jump in to look for him, he said: I wanted to and I do not know why I did not. Maybe I should have done and I can only apologise for that. However, he added he would have been better able to help his friend from the boat if he had resurfaced. Norfolk area coroner Yvonne Blake recorded a conclusion that the death was an accident. But she accepted questions remained about how he came to drown when he was known to be fit and a strong swimmer. He could have knocked his head on something under the water, which could have stunned him, she said. The pair, who went shooting together, had begun drinking at around 3.30pm at the Swan Inn pub in Horning before heading to Mr Cators familys home nearby. Harrow School was founded in 1572 and the official uniform includes morning suits and Harrow Hat made of varnished straw with a blue band which are worn on Sundays They had a total of five bottles of Becks lager each, as well as a bottle of rose and a bottle of white wine at dinner, then vodka and ginger beers on the boat, where they listened to music before deciding to go for a swim before midnight. A post-mortem examination found Mr Keith had 185mgs of alcohol per 100ml of blood more than twice the legal limit to drive. His family issued an emotional tribute to him after the inquest, saying: The loss of our precious Henry has created a huge void for our family and all the many friends who loved him dearly. He was a caring and cheerful young man with a bright future ahead of him. The family thanked emergency services involved in the search for him, particularly the Hemsby lifeboat and Norfolk Lowland Search and Rescue. They added: These two organisations did not rest for a moment until he was found. In an earlier tribute, posted with a notice of his funeral, they said: Truly he was a gift from God, taken back on a golden summer day. The statement described him as a beloved son of James and Vicky and an adored brother to his four siblings. It added: The most wonderful, unique, charming and brilliant young man, universally adored. Rest in Peace darling Henry. Harrow School was founded in 1572 and the official uniform includes morning suits and Harrow Hat made of varnished straw with a blue band which are worn on Sundays. Former pupils include seven former British prime ministers including Winston Churchill, members of various royal families, three Nobel Prize winners and 20 Victoria Cross holders. Horrifying footage of a car speeding through a residential Los Angeles neighborhood and almost crashing into a mob of cyclists is circulating on social media. The video revealed a white Mercedes-Benz zooming through the street while dodging cyclists and even veering into the wrong side of the road. The vehicle swerved through the cyclists and just narrowly missed them as screams could be heard in the background. The cyclists yelled at one another to 'move' and 'watch out' for the unhinged vehicle. The Mercedes-Benz continued to speed around the bikers, narrowly avoiding oncoming traffic. A separate clip appeared to show the same cyclists attacking the car in a parking garage. A mob of people stomped on the car and smashed the windows in. Another person in a gray jacket fled the scene as others chased after him. It's unclear if the person running away was the driver from the first video. The Los Angeles Police Department have yet to confirm the details of the incident. The cyclists swerved out of the way to avoid being struck by the vehicle Separate video footage revealed the cyclists vandalizing a vehicle The car was spotted in the Mid-Wilshire neighborhood of Los Angeles and almost crashed into the cyclists heading down Olympic Boulevard. Locals in the area told CBS News that it isn't uncommon for large groups of cyclists to ride through the neighborhood. Rosalina Hernandez, a local business owner, told the outlet that her customers were cheering the cyclists on as they cruised down the road. 'It was pretty joyful. The customers that were outside were cheering them on and people were honking,' Hernandez told CBS. Her tone changed when commenting on the violence in the parking garage, calling the behavior 'unacceptable' and adding that it gave her 'chills.' Social media users expressed mixed reactions to the viral videos with some defending the driver's behavior while others sided with the bikers. 'The bikers are the ones illegally driving in the streets obstructing all traffic lanes,' one comment read, while another agreed, 'The driver is a hero, we need more people like him.' The white car swerved into oncoming traffic and narrowly avoided the crowd of cyclists The white Mercedes-Benz was vandalized while parked in a garage The car veered into the wrong lane at full speed to avoid hitting a biker However, some viewers were more critical, with one writing, 'Is there only one street in this city? The entitlement of car drivers to think they own the streets is perplexing.' Although it's unclear if anyone was injured in these videos, the incident is the latest in traffic violence plaguing Los Angeles. Traffic deaths in the city reached its highest reported number in 2024, according to data compiled by Streets Are For Everyone. Dailymail.com has reached out to the LAPD for comment but did not immediately hear back. The Chair of the Metropolitan Black Police Association sent disgraceful racist and sexist messages mocking women and Asian people, a hearing was told yesterday. Inspector Charles Ehikioya is accused of taking part in a WhatsApp chat with another officer which included posts mocking Prince Philips car crash, jokes about sex with a girl with Downs syndrome and a video suggesting Katie Prices disabled son Harvey was on drugs. In a chatlog of over 7,000 WhatsApp messages between 2017-2020, the officer allegedly sent a large number of posts and videos that were sexist, racist, inappropriate or involved extreme violence, such as people being shot in the head. The accused inspector, who works for the Mets Professionalism Command, could be sacked if the allegations are proved. But Ehikioya claims that he is the real victim, with the messages fabricated or falsely attributed to him in a racist sting campaign because of his role within the Mets Black Police Association, it was said. Yesterday a Met Police misconduct hearing in London heard examples of the some messages exchanged including a clearly racist video mocking a Korean woman pronouncing Coca-Cola and a post about a Chinese child eating dog and cat and all kinds of s***. There were also obscene images of a man performing a sex act on a sleeping woman, pictures of a womans face being slapped by an erect penis and a joke about a Taliban call girl. In one post, Ehikioya allegedly sent a picture of the late Hugh Hefner to former PC Carlo Francisco with the comment: Message from the other side, Tell the Muslims theres no 72 virgins left. Inspector Charles Ehikioya (pictured) is accused of taking part in a WhatsApp chat with another officer which included posts mocking Prince Philip s car crash The accused inspector, who works for the Mets Professionalism Command, could be sacked if the allegations are proved. Pictured: Ehikioya arrives at a Metropolitan Police misconduct hearing at Palestra House, south east London After the late Duke of Edinburghs car crash in January 2019, Francisco messaged Ehikioya with a picture of the accident which had a ghost image of Princess Diana and the caption, next time you old bastard. Many of the highly sexual messages allegedly sent by the inspector are too offensive to print here. In one video a child with a naked bottom was seen with a man eating crisps after they had been wiped on the childs bottom. James Berry, who represents the force, said the messages sent between the pair were a disgrace. He said: Some of the messages in issue in this case would rightly cause the public to be concerned as to whether the officers would be capable of impartially discharging their duties when it comes to women, given the sheer volume of derogatory and demeaning comments and imagery. He added: Inspector Ehikioya has not denied that the content of the messages is inappropriate. Yesterday a Met Police misconduct hearing in London heard examples of some messages exchanged including a clearly racist video mocking a Korean woman pronouncing Coca-Cola Rather, he denies that he sent / received them and alleges that they were somehow planted, for a racist motive. An investigation began after a female PCSO complained about PC Francisco in December 2020 and his phone was seized. Francisco was later sacked and found guilty of gross misconduct in 2023 over seperate messages shared with others. Ehikioya has previously lodged a claim against the Met claiming he is the victim of racial harassment by white colleagues. He denies any wrongdoing. Vice President Kamala Harris was snubbed when trying to exchange pleasantries with a Republican senator's spouse, leading to an unhandy viral video. Republican Sen. Deb Fischer's husband, Bruce, refused to shake Harris' outstretched hand in the middle of the swearing-in ceremony. After Fischer was sworn in, the Nebraska senator and Harris shook hands and the pair pleasantly thanked each other for their service to the country. Then Harris turned to Bruce saying 'Thank you. Congratulations to you,' before offering him a handshake by stretching out her hand. Bruce, who seemed not to have looked Harris in the eye for the entire swearing-in ceremony, then looks at the VP for a split second, says 'thank you' and awkwardly averts his gaze once more. Just moments before Harris jokingly noted how uncomfortable Bruce appeared. 'It's okay, I won't bite,' Harris says as Bruce refuses to look at her while finding the spot he is meant to stand in for the swearing in ceremony. 'Don't worry,' Harris continues while raising an eyebrow to Sen. Fischer, the VP's old Senate colleague. Bruce Fischer did not make much eye contact with Vice President Kamala Harris as she spoke to him during the swearing in ceremony on Friday. When she offered to shake his hand, he said 'thank you,' looked away and snubbed Harris' handshake offer Harris shook the hand of Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., immediately before the dust up with Bruce Though not clearly seen in the clip is a cane that Bruce was grasping onto with his right hand, the same one he would've had to use to shake Harris'. Videos showing the bizarre interaction between the VP and the Senate spouse has since garnered millions of views and sparked fierce debate about which party is to blame. 'WOW! Nebraska Senator Deb Fischers husband REFUSED to shake Kamalas hand and can barely look her in the eye,' pro-MAGA commentator David Harris Jr. wrote in response to the clip. 'Thank you, sir, for representing every American whose lives were destroyed by her and Joes policies,' he continued on X. 'Nebraska Senator Deb Fischers husband just completely ignored Kamala and her attempted handshake,' the conservative Libs of TikTok X account posted alongside a laughing emoji. 'This man is my kind of man. Kamala went in for a handshake and was promptly embarrassed. I think she's realizing that nobody likes her,' Conservative commentator Gunther Eagleman posted. But others said the interaction was rude and that Bruce's snubbing the VP was inappropriate. 'Husband just couldn't get over himself,' One X account that goes by the moniker Peacemaker posted. Bruce was holding onto a cane with his right hand during the ceremony Vice President Kamala Harris, right, shake hands with Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., during a ceremonial swearing-in ceremony at the Capitol in Washington, Friday, Jan. 3, 2025 Liberal account Call to Activism wrote of the interaction: 'I cant stop watching this a**hole husband of a Republican Senator Deb Fischer who refused to shake hands with Vice President Kamala Harris today.' 'MAGA is classless even in victory,' the post said. Fischer said in a press release summarizing the ceremony, I am humbled by the faith and trust Nebraskans have placed in me as I take this oath for the third time.' 'I will not break that trust, and I will not betray that faith. I ask for your prayers for wisdom and strength that I may know and follow God's guidance as I continue to serve the people and the state I love.' Fischer's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the viral interaction. Special Boat Service troops are facing possible murder charges over the death of a suspected terrorist in Libya, the Mail can reveal. The incident being investigated by military police occurred as part of secret UK Special Forces operations in the war-torn North African state. According to an SBS source, up to five elite troops were involved in a car chase which ended with the vehicles they were driving circling the suspects vehicle. The SBS men then fired shots into the vehicle, killing its occupant. The incident has never previously been reported. A criminal investigation by the Defence Serious Crimes Unit was launched over claims the suspect could have been arrested instead. The Service Prosecuting Authority (SPA) will decide whether to pursue criminal cases against the men. The Mail understands murder charges have not been ruled out. The troops are based at the SBSs headquarters in Poole, Dorset, and had deployed to Libya on a covert mission two years ago. The murder probe has emerged at a troubled time for the Special Forces. According to an SBS source, up to five elite troops were involved in a car chase which ended with the vehicles they were driving circling the suspects vehicle (stock image) A criminal investigation by the Defence Serious Crimes Unit was launched over claims the suspect could have been arrested instead (stock image) The incident being investigated by military police occurred as part of secret UK Special Forces operations in the war-torn North African state. Pictured: Special Boat Service cap badge An ongoing High Court inquiry has heard that as many as 80 Taliban suspects, including children, were executed in custody by Special Air Service (SAS) troops in Afghanistan from 2010 to 2013. Separately, five serving SAS soldiers are facing possible murder charges over the death of a suspected jihadi in Syria, as exclusively revealed by the Mail in March last year. In a case that has provoked fury inside the SAS, military police have alleged the soldiers used excessive force and should have arrested the man instead. The troops insisted he intended to carry out an attack using a suicide vest packed with explosives. A primed device was found nearby. The Mail can reveal today that, in addition to the five SAS soldiers, three officers face charges over how the incident was handled within the regiment. Military police are considering whether the officers conduct amounted to an attempt to cover up aspects of the shooting. Meanwhile, tomorrow, two serving SAS soldiers are due to appear at a magistrates court after being charged with drug dealing. The investigation into the shooting by SBS troops provides the first confirmation of the recent presence of UK Special Forces in Libya. The troops are based at the SBSs headquarters in Poole, Dorset, and had deployed to Libya on a covert mission two years ago (stock image) Separately, five serving SAS soldiers are facing possible murder charges over the death of a suspected jihadi in Syria. Pictured: Badge of the Special Air Service Regiment The countrys fractured political situation has been exploited by jihadis belonging to groups such as Al Qaeda, in particular in the southern Fezzan region. Confirmed counter-terrorism efforts have included US air strikes. The UK Government has described the security situation in Libya as fragile. The investigations into the recent incidents in Syria and Libya have raised concerns that the welfare of soldiers on the battlefield is being taken for granted. Rank-and-file troops have interpreted the cases as attempts by commanders to put the letter of the law before the soldiers safety. The Libya incident is the first murder case to come to light involving the SBS, which recruits mainly from the Royal Marines. The unit is distinct from the SAS. A source told the Mail: As the High Court inquiry into the alleged SAS shoot-to-kill campaign in Afghanistan from 2010 to 2013 continues, the current generation of commanders want to distance themselves from past misdemeanours. That is a noble ambition, however, the pendulum could swing too far in the opposite direction. There must be protection in law for those who risk their lives to defend this country. Woe betide any senior officers should they seek to further their careers by exposing their soldiers to criminal investigations, and possible charges, that dont reflect the dangers inherent in anti-terrorist operations. The troops are based at the SBSs headquarters in Poole, Dorset, and had deployed to Libya on a covert mission two years ago (stock image) Lord Justice Haddon-Caves inquiry into SAS war crimes is expected to report either late this year or in early 2026. His findings could trigger a fresh criminal inquiry into soldiers who pulled the trigger in Afghanistan and SAS commanders who may have hampered attempts to investigate the shootings. Last night, the Ministry of Defence said: Our UK personnel are respected worldwide for the highest standards. Action will be taken against anyone that fails to meet these standards, including dismissal from service, where appropriate. A suspicious fire has caused significant damage to the grandstand at the Caulfield Racecourse in eastern Melbourne. Fire crews were called to the course just before 6.20am on Tuesday to reports of a blaze at the heritage-listed site. Footage from the scene, posted to social media about 7am, shows the flames ripping through the first level of the eastern side of the main grandstand while firefighters doused it with water. A Fire Rescue Victoria spokesperson said firefighters arrived at the scene and escalated their response to 'third-alarm', meaning extra crews were called in. 'Crews worked quickly to contain the fire to the centre building with the incident deemed under control at 7.09am,' the spokesperson said. Victoria Police have launched an investigation into the blaze it describes as 'suspicious'. 'No one was injured and the area was evacuated safely' police said in a statement. Anyone with information has been urged to contact police. Massive fire at Caulfield racecourse in grandstand for updates tune into @RSN927 pic.twitter.com/cuSZQ8kpee Michael Felgate (@m_felgate) January 6, 2025 Police have launched an investigation into a 'suspicious' fire at the iconic Caulfield Racecourse early on Tuesday morning (stock image) The Melbourne Racing Club said in a statement that the fire started in The 1876 Bar on Level 1 of the Norman Robinson Stand. No staff have been hurt which is a great thing. There's a lot of smoke, a lot of water coming through,' club chairman John Kanga said on RSN radio. 'I don't know (what the damage is yet). There's no damage to the track, it's been contained to the grandstand.' An alert for nearby residents to stay inside was cleared by Fire Rescue Victoria after the blaze was determined to be 'Under Control'. 'There is currently no threat to the community, but you should continue to stay informed and monitor conditions,' the alert said. Fire Rescue Victoria Dennis Smith said there are fears parts of the stand built out of timber may have to be knocked down. 'That section will be out of action for quite some time,' Mr Smith told 3AW on Tuesday morning. 'I don't believe they have to knock any components down of the brick area, but because it is timber, it's unlikely that area will be able to be repaired. 'They will probably have to replace that section.' The blaze came just a day before Wednesday's scheduled race day on the new Caulfield Heath course. The new course is on the inside of the main course, with that made available by the closure of training facilities at the venue. It's also the location of the Caulfield Cup, a key event in the Melbourne Spring Carnival. More to come... Keir Starmer was last night accused of smear tactics after claiming those wanting an inquiry into the grooming gangs scandal were jumping on a far-Right bandwagon. The Prime Minister triggered a furious backlash after saying Tory demands for an inquiry into the rape of thousands of white girls by gangs of predominantly Pakistani-origin men were amplifying what the far-Right are saying. Sir Keir also angrily defended his record as Director of Public Prosecutions after Tesla tycoon Elon Musk suggested he was complicit in the failure to tackle the abuse. And he claimed Kemi Badenochs interventions on the issue showed she was desperate for attention. The Tory leader hit back, accusing the PM of applying Labour smear tactics from 20 years ago. She added: That such a huge scandal could occur should prompt soul-searching not ranting that those of us who care about it are the far-Right. Mrs Badenoch revealed she will table a Commons amendment this week designed to force a vote on the need for an inquiry. Former police detective Maggie Oliver, who helped blow the whistle on the scandal in Rochdale, said she was incandescent with rage at the PMs comments. Sir Keir Starmer triggered a backlash after he branded calls for a inquiry into grooming gangs as amplifying what the far-Right are saying Former police detective Maggie Oliver, who helped blow the whistle on the scandal in Rochdale said she was 'incandescent with rage' at the PM's comments She told GB News: I am no far-Right activist. I am a woman who gave 16 years of my life to the police and protecting children was No 1 priority in my life. 'All the victims that I know and that we support have had their lives destroyed. To write them off as far-Right extremists is insulting in the extreme. Former home secretary James Cleverly warned that the PMs comments risked inflaming public anger over the issue. 'Accusing those who disagree with him, or who seek legitimate answers about repeated failures of child protection, as far-Right is deeply insulting and counterproductive. He is the best recruiting sergeant for extremism, Mr Cleverly said. The row came as: Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said the law would be changed to make it mandatory for social workers, teachers, police and others working with children to report suspected sexual abuse. Mr Musk stepped up his criticism of Sir Keir, describing his comments as utterly despicable and suggesting he should be jailed. Ms Cooper said grooming would be designated an aggravating factor in child sex abuse cases. A 39-year-old man was charged with sending malicious communications to safeguarding minister Jess Phillips, who has faced fierce criticism from Mr Musk in recent days for refusing a public inquiry European leaders criticised Mr Musk, including French president Emmanuel Macron who hit out at his interference in the continents democratic processes Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said she would table a Commons amendment this week designed to force a vote on an inquiry into the scandal At a press conference in Epsom, the issue overshadowed Sir Keirs announcement of plans to cut health waiting lists, which were meant to be the centrepiece of the latest attempt to relaunch his premiership. Dismissing calls for a fresh inquiry into the grooming gangs, he said: What I wont tolerate is politicians jumping on the bandwagon simply to get attention when those politicians sat in government for 14 long years, tweeting, talking, but not doing anything about it now so desperate for attention that theyre amplifying what the far-Right is saying. Downing Street insisted the PMs comments were focused on the Conservatives and said he did not believe the campaigners and victims pushing for an inquiry are necessarily far-Right. But Tory justice spokesman Robert Jenrick said his words were an insult to millions with legitimate concerns about the handling of the scandal. Mr Jenrick said people were rightly furious about the most appalling abuse of incredibly vulnerable little girls and the subsequent cover-up. He added: In seeking to smear individuals demanding an inquiry which is supported by many victims as far-Right, Starmer displays the same attitude that led to this scandal continuing for so long. Last night, the PM was also accused of hypocrisy over his attempt to take the moral high ground on the issue of child sexual abuse. Critics pointed out that he signed off Labours controversial pre-election attack ads against Rishi Sunak which falsely claimed that he did not think convicted paedophiles should be jailed. Writing in the Mail in 2023, Sir Keir said he stood by every word of the campaign no matter how squeamish it might make some feel. Ms Phillips, now safeguarding minister, said at the time that the attack ad was not hard enough for me actually. Elon Musk with Nigel Farage. The Tesla founder stepped up his criticism of Sir Keir, describing his comments as utterly despicable and suggesting he should be jailed Mr Musk posted on his X social media site on Monday morning that Sir Keir should be 'in prison', and asked followers whether America should 'liberate' Britain from its 'tyrannical government' Tory MP Ben Obese-Jecty said: Keir Starmer used this advert personally attacking Rishi Sunak during his election campaign. He cannot bivouac on the moral high ground now regarding Elon Musks comments about Jess Phillips. He bears his own responsibility for the current discourse. The row came as the PM broke his silence following days of criticism from Mr Musk. Describing child sexual exploitation as utterly sickening, Sir Keir defended his record as DPP, saying he tackled the issue head on. The PM acknowledged that many victims felt let down by perverse ideas about community relations or by the idea that institutions must be protected above all else and they have not been listened to and they have not been heard. But he said there had been enough inquiries into a scandal that took place for decades across dozens of towns and cities. Sir Keir added: This doesnt need more consultation. It doesnt need more research. It just needs action. Anthony Albanese has called for federal parliamentary terms to be extended from three years to four, as he begins campaigning ahead of the upcoming election. A Roy Morgan poll on Tuesday showed the Albanese government facing a wipeout - with the Coalition ahead 53 per cent to Labor's 47 per cent on a two-party-preferred basis. Appearing on Channel Seven's Sunrise on Tuesday, Mr Albanese indicated a re-elected Labor would pursue longer parliamentary terms, and ending the right of government's to call early polls. 'We should have four-year fixed terms, like they do in most states and territories, to avoid these games (on election dates).' But any such change would require a successful referendum - something the government would be less than confident about after the failure of its Voice referendum. Mr Albanese was asked by Sunrise host Michael Usher about when he plans to hold the next election, amid growing speculation that April 12 is firming as his preferred date. '(The date) will be May 17 or before,' the Prime Minister responded, with the May date being the latest possible. Mr Albanese is this week touring battleground electorates in Queensland, the Northern Territory, and Western Australia, indicating the election date will be sooner rather than later. Anthony Albanese has called for four-year parliamentary terms as he faced questions about the date of the next election on Sunrise Sunrise host Michael Usher confronted Albanese with stark economic realities, including rising energy costs, as fresh polling shows Labor behind the coalition He will begin Tuesday in Rockhampton, central Queensland, before heading north to Cairns and west to Mount Isa. Cost-of-living pressures will be a key election issue, with untamed inflation, high mortgage rates and rental prices all corroding support for the government. Usher confronted Mr Albanese with some stark figures about the economy under his government. 'You need about $1 million to afford a house. Energy prices have gone up 14 per cent in the last 12 months,' he said. 'General insurance costs are up 16 per cent. There is no guarantee of a rate cut. Petrol is sitting around $2 a litre. 'Iron ore is down and the dollar is weak. What are you worried about with the economy?' Mr Albanese attributed economic challenges to global factors but said the economy is moving in the right direction under Labor. Mr Albanese attacked Peter Dutton's $330 billion nuclear reactor proposal He also highlighted the governments achievement of two consecutive budget surpluses. 'We have real wages increasing, that is wages are increasing by more than inflation in the last four quarters,' Mr Albanese said. 'But we understand and are certainly not complacent about it. 'That is why at each and every opportunity we have looked for ways to address cost of living, to address those pressures that are on families whilst putting that downward pressure on inflation.' But Usher warned Mr Albanese that voters were not convinced. 'You're going to have to pull some fast levers to convince the electorate that they're feeling better off because most people feel like they're going backwards,' he said. Mr Albanese said people would have been worse off under the Coalition. He also attacked Opposition leader Peter Dutton's $330billion bid to set up seven nuclear reactors in order to cut energy costs. 'Under the Coalition, we will go backwards, under Peter Dutton and things will cost more,' he said. 'The only plan they have put forward is for nuclear reactors that will cost $1,200 for every Australian.' A man has died after being shot by police in a southern Adelaide suburb early on Tuesday morning. SA Police said they were called to a home on Highfield Drive, Craigburn Farm, just after midnight after reports a man was harming himself. They went into the home to speak to the 40-year-old, but he allegedly threatened officers with a knife, a spokesperson said. 'Police deployed a taser which was unsuccessful, the man continued to threaten patrols with the knife. 'Police then discharged their firearms, incapacitating the man. Paramedics worked on the occupant before he was transported to hospital where he sadly died. 'There were no injuries to police.' Detectives were at the scene on Tuesday morning investigating the circumstances of the death. A report will be prepared for the coroner. Justin Welby has laid down his staff in his final act as The Archbishop of Canterbury after standing down over failures in handling the Church of England child sexual abuse scandal. Almost two months after announcing his resignation, Mr Welby, 69, officially quit the role on Monday. It follows an independent review which concluded barrister and Christian camp leader John Smyth - thought to have been the most prolific serial abuser to be associated with the Church - might have been brought to justice had Mr Welby formally reported him to police in 2013. Mr Welby is said to of spent the day in privacy at his London residence, Lambeth Palace, before attending a lunchtime Eucharist and later a service of Evensong. It is during the latter that he laid down his bishop's crozier - a ceremonial long staff - in a symbolic act which marked the official end of his ministry as Archbishop of Canterbury. Pictures show Mr Welby kneeling with the crozier in hand, and another with his head bowed, eyes closed and hands clasped in prayer after it had been set on the altar. Lambeth Palace said he had met friends, staff and former colleagues throughout the day, and expressed his gratitude for their dedication, support, and partnership through the years. The Archbishop has made few public appearances since mid-November, and did not give the traditional Christmas Day sermon from Canterbury Cathedral. Justin Welby has laid down his staff in his final act as The Archbishop of Canterbury after standing down over failures in handling the Church of England child sexual abuse scandal Almost two months after announcing his resignation, he officially quit the role on Monday Pictures show Mr Welby kneeling with the crozier in hand, and another with his head bowed, eyes closed and hands clasped in prayer after it had been set on the altar While in his initial resignation statement on November 12 he said he was stepping down 'in sorrow with all victims and survivors of abuse', he had to issue an apology later that month following his final speech in the House of Lords. On that occasion he was accused of making light of serious safeguarding failures in the Church, with an abuse survivor branding the speech - which referenced a 14th century beheading and prompted laughter from some peers - 'tone deaf'. In recent weeks a major charity, The Children's Society, also rejected a Christmas donation from Mr Welby saying that accepting it 'would not be consistent with the principles and values that underpin our work'. From Tuesday, most of the official functions normally held by the Archbishop of Canterbury will be delegated to the Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell while some will go to the Bishop of London Dame Sarah Mullally, and the diocesan functions will be carried out by the Bishop of Dover Rose Hudson-Wilkin. Mr Cottrell has also faced calls to resign over his handling of a separate abuse case but, appearing to reject those calls in recent weeks, he has pledged to 'do what I can' to bring about independent scrutiny of safeguarding in the Church. The process to replace Mr Welby is expected to take months, with an announcement about a new archbishop of Canterbury possible in autumn. Justin Welby ceases to hold the leading role within the Church from midnight, with the Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell taking temporary charge. But Mr Cottrell has faced his own calls to resign over mishandling of safeguarding, after revelations that a priest at the centre of a sexual abuse case was twice re-appointed under him while he was serving as Bishop of Chelmsford. While in his initial resignation statement on November 12 he said he was stepping down 'in sorrow with all victims and survivors of abuse', he had to issue an apology later that month following his final speech in the House of Lords During the service of Evensong, Mr Welby laid down his bishop's crozier - a ceremonial long staff - in a symbolic act which marked the official end of his ministry as Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby (right) ceases to hold the leading role within the Church from midnight, with the Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell (left) taking temporary charge He has acknowledged things 'could have been handled differently' but, appearing to reject calls to quit, has pledged to 'do what I can' to bring about independent scrutiny of safeguarding in the Church. Meanwhile, a campaigner and abuse survivor has said safeguarding in the Church of England must undergo 'complete reform'. Lucy Duckworth, a Church abuse survivor and policy adviser at The Survivors Trust, told the PA news agency there remains 'a question for those within the Church as to whether they have trust and faith that previous actions have been acceptable'. She added: 'The Church now has a new leader whose record on safeguarding has also been called into question, like Justin Welby's was.' Mr Welby announced his resignation in November, following days of pressure after the publication of an independent review which concluded barrister and Christian camp leader John Smyth - thought to have been the most prolific serial abuser to be associated with the Church - might have been brought to justice had Mr Welby formally reported him to police in 2013. Ms Duckworth said nothing less than complete reform of how the Church handles safeguarding when it comes to child abuse will do. She said: 'We know there is now such a problem (with safeguarding in the Church), we need to stop focusing the failures on individual leaders and start looking at complete reform of safeguarding within the Church of England. 'The only way to do that is for independent safeguarding and that's going to be voted on in February at Synod (the Church's parliament). 'We trust that Stephen Cottrell and all of the bishops will be voting for that in full.' An Oklahoma mother allegedly made disturbing internet searches in the days before she took her four-month-old son to the hospital, where he would eventually succumb to his horrific injuries. Savawna Bowen, 23, was taken into custody on Friday on one count of felony child neglect - almost exactly one year after her young son died of a broken jaw, broken ribs, a broken femur and severe brain injury, Law & Crime reports. The boy's father, Daquan White, also 23, has previously been charged with the infant's murder and child abuse. But prosecutors now say Bowen knew White had injured their son, and waited several days before getting him medical help. She allegedly searched the term 'popped leg,' and the following day she searched 'baby's femur is sticking out' instead of rushing the child to the hospital. In an affidavit obtained by News on 6, police say Bowen left her two children - the infant and a two-year-old in White's care while she stayed with her boyfriend last year. When she eventually returned, she noticed there was a red mark on the baby's leg, which she asked White about. The father allegedly explained that when he lifted the young child's leg, he heard a popping sound. Savawna Bowen, 23, was taken into custody on Friday on one count of felony child neglect - almost exactly one year after her young son died of a broken jaw, broken ribs, a broken femur and severe brain injury The boy's father, Daquan White, also 23, has previously been charged with the infant's murder and child abuse Still, prosecutors claim, Bowen left her children in White's care for another eight hours, while she spent time with her friends. By the time Bowen arrived back at White's residence, she noticed her baby was crying in pain. At that point, White allegedly admitted he put his fingers inside the baby's mouth and pushed down in an effort to stop the baby from crying. The infant would go on to have a seizure, but the affidavit claims White told Bowen to wait to take him to the hospital and to lie about the injury on the baby's leg. In the days that followed, prosecutors say Bowen made a number of disturbing internet searches. On January 3, 2024, she allegedly searched the term 'popped leg,' and the following day she searched 'baby's femur is sticking out.' Bowen then allegedly waited another few days before making another search on January 7 for 'baby not able to move mouth' and 'mouth swollen.' Apparently disturbed by the results, Bowen eventually took the infant to the hospital the following day. But police say doctors have told them that the baby likely would have survived his injuries if Bowen brought him to the hospital earlier. Instead, the infant passed away on January 11. Very few of Australia's millionaires say hard work made them wealthy, with more saying their best investment was to marry someone rich - or watching their spending. One in eight Australians is now a millionaire thanks to the boom in property prices, and the number expected to grow rapidly in coming years. But when it comes to getting rich, despite popular belief, very few investors said it was chiefly because of hard work or coming from a wealthy family. Finder's Wealth Building Report 2024 surveyed more than 1,000 active investors who either owned shares in listed companies, an investment property or other assets like government bonds, cryptocurrency or a stake in a private company. For these investors, careful budgeting and cutting back on spending was the number one factor for wealth, with 38 per cent saying it was their key reason for getting rich. 'Managing money responsibly means that investors can maximise the cash used to build their wealth,' the Finder report said. 'For non-investors, establishing responsible money habits like saving more, spending less and paying off bad debt can unlock funds to start creating wealth. 'The majority of Australia's investors have a frugal habit that supports their investing behaviours. Very few of Australia's millionaires say hard work made them wealthy with more of them giving credit to either marrying someone rich or watching their spending very carefully (pictured is a stock image) 'The savings from a few frugal habits can compound into much larger returns.' More than half of the frugal investors surveyed said they bought discounted groceries, while 44 per cent of them said they rarely ate out, compared with a third who switched bills regularly or drove a cheap car. Finder calculated that an average, full-time worker on $100,000 could put aside an extra $581 a month if they saved 23 per cent of their income instead of only 14 per cent of it, after tax. Extra savings enable someone to either put the money in a term deposit bank account that earns interest, or invest it on the share market or in a property. Budgeting was followed by investing frequently, with one in eight highlighting it as their chief wealth creator, followed by paying off debt on nine per cent. The survey also highlighted the myth that hard work was the key to success with just three per cent nominating toil as their top avenue for getting rich. More than twice as many nominated marrying someone rich, which made one in fourteen of the investors rich, they admitted. This was seen as even more important than investing in real estate, with just six per cent nominating bricks and mortar as their best investment. Finder's Wealth Building Report 2024 surveyed more than 1,000 active investors who either owned shares in listed companies, an investment property or other assets like government bonds, cryptocurrency or a stake in a private company (pictured is the Australian Securities Exchange in Sydney) Just 1 per cent nominated income from rental properties as their chief wealth driver, while only 3 per cent gave credit to an inheritance. While few survey respondents cited inheritance wealth as the key to getting rich, coming from a family with money doesn't hurt, with the survey also finding that 44 per cent of Australians with investments received financial help from their parents compared with just 29 per cent without investments. Those who own property were also more likely to have had parental help with 16 per cent of investors having help to fund a mortgage deposit compared with just 8 per cent who weren't investing money. Australia's share market last year outperformed the property market but Finder's head of consumer research Graham Cooke said 'time in the market' rather than 'timing the market' was the key to benefiting from stocks. 'This long-term investment approach helps returns grow stronger and more reliable over time,' he said. The benchmark S&P/ASX200 rose by 7.6 per cent in 2024, after hitting a record high in early December. By comparison, house and unit prices rose by 4.9 per cent, but there were double-digit increases in Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide, CoreLogic data showed. Bank savings accounts typically paid just 4 per cent interest over the year. But superannuation did even better with SuperRatings revealing that balanced options geared towards growth saw an 11.5 per cent increase in 2024. The California Supreme Court on Monday narrowed the grounds for finding one parent guilty of a murder committed by the other parent. Courtesy photo/Getty Images When a drug-using father slammed his 2-month-old sons head into the wall or floor and caused fatal injuries, juries convicted both parents of murder, finding that the childs mother knew her partner was dangerous when she left their son in his care. But a divided state Supreme Court overturned the mothers conviction Monday and narrowed the grounds for finding one parent guilty of a murder committed by the other parent. If one parent kills a child, the other parent is legally responsible only if she knows to a substantial degree of certainty that a life-endangering act is occurring or is about to occur and failed to act in conscious disregard for life, Justice Kelli Evans wrote in the 5-2 ruling. The defendant, Brittney Collins, was convicted of second-degree murder by a Kern County jury and sentenced to 15 years to life in prison. Her partner, Matthew Norwood, was convicted by a separate jury of second-degree murder of their son, Abel Norwood, and sentenced to 25 years to life, a conviction not affected by Mondays ruling. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Knowing ones partner can be dangerous in this case, that he was using methamphetamine and had been violent in the past and leaving a child alone with him can justify charges such as felony child endangerment, Evans said. Collins was also convicted of assault and could still face penalties for that charge. But to be convicted of murder, Evans said, the non-killer must knowingly fail to protect their child from the life-endangering act and intend it to occur. Evans and others in the courts majority also observed that such charges are filed more often against women than men. Failure-to-act liability carries a significant risk of unfairly punishing women who do not live up to gendered and class-based expectations of motherhood, Justice Goodwin Liu wrote in a separate concurring opinion joined by Evans and Justice Joshua Groban. In dissent, Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero said a parent who knows the other parent is potentially dangerous to their child, and fails to take every step reasonably necessary to protect the child, should be held equally responsible for violence that follows. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Collins knew Norwood was a violent drug addict and had seen him abusing their child in the past, and the jury could reasonably conclude that Collins knew she was endangering Abels life by allowing Norwood to care for Abel under these circumstances, said Guerrero, joined by Justice Carol Corrigan. The couple lived in a trailer park in the Kern County town of Tehachapi. Collins, then 30, and other witnesses testified that when she was pregnant in 2018, the 31-year-old Norwood said he did not want to be a father and shoved a screwdriver into her abdomen. Collins also said Norwood jumped on her body while she was pregnant. She nearly died during childbirth. Jurors also saw a video in which Collins described seeing Norwood squeeze and choke Abel and slap him on the head. In October 2018, the court said, Collins nonetheless allowed Norwood to care for the child while she was recovering from post-birth complications. She and her grandmother heard a bang from the bedroom, similar to noises they had heard in previous weeks, but Norwood returned and said the child did not want his bottle and had gone back to sleep, the court said. Collins went to the bedroom an hour later, found Abel foaming at the mouth and had him taken to the hospital, where he was found to have a fractured skull and other severe injuries. He died a week later. Collins first told police that Norwood had not abused her or their child, but changed her account a day or two later and said he had beaten her both before and after childbirth and was probably responsible for Abels death, the court said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad She was convicted in 2020 of both murder and assault. A state appeals court upheld the murder conviction, saying she knew of Norwoods abuse of Abel but intentionally failed to take any reasonable steps to protect the baby. But the state Supreme Court said Monday that there was no evidence that Collins knew with substantial certainty that Norwood intended to commit the life-endangering act, so she is not guilty of murder. The Princess of Wales has established herself as a modern style icon, with her signature coat dresses and chic winter ensembles earning admiration worldwide. One of Kate's go-to fashion techniques is monochromatic dressing, a style she seems to have inherited from the late Queen Elizabeth II. The former monarch famously used vibrant colours to ensure she stood out in a crowd, once quipping: 'If I wore beige, nobody would know who I am.' Monochromatic dressing focuses on wearing one bold hue to make a statement. Kate's approach is nothing short of a masterclass - she commits to perfectly matching her coat, shoes, hat and accessories. By coordinating her outfit in a single dominant colour, Kate achieves a polished, cohesive appearance while avoiding the risk of incompatible tones. Fashion psychologist Shakaila Forbes-Bell suggests that wearing bold colour can influence your mood, boosting confidence in the wearer, which might prove particularly appealing to Kate. She told Mail Online: 'Monochromatic outfits are a great way to avoid decision fatigue due to their effortless nature. Research suggests that saturated and brighter colours are more arousing, which can make the wearer feel more alert and extroverted.' Whether paying homage to royal tradition or setting new trends, the Princess has perfected the art of dressing with intention and impact. Prepare to enjoy a lesson in monotone dressing, Kate style... Rich and refined Kate greeted the Emir of Qatar during his state visit to the UK in a flawless burgundy ensemble. She chose a bespoke Alexander McQueen coat with a double-breasted front and the brand's signature slanted pockets. Kate expertly paired her outfit with merlot red Gianvito Rossi 'Rhymes' leather boots, a quilted Chanel bag and Cornelia James 'Aurelia' touchscreen gloves, showcasing her impeccable attention to detail. Kate greeted the Emir of Qatar during his state visit to the UK in a flawless burgundy ensemble Vibrant statement For St Patrick's Day in 2023, Kate dazzled in a head-to-toe teal ensemble that radiated elegance. She teamed a bespoke Catherine Walker coat with a Jane Taylor hat, perfectly matched Gianvito Rossi heels, an Emmy London 'Natasha' clutch and coordinated Dents gloves. The coat's military-inspired stand collar and sharp shoulders added a regal touch, while the distinctively spaced buttons and exquisite pleats elevated the design to a whole new level of sophistication. For St Patrick's Day in 2023, Kate dazzled in a head-to-toe teal ensemble that radiated elegance Golden glow For the Jubilee Thanksgiving Service in 2022, Kate shone in a pastel yellow Emilia Wickstead coat dress. She debuted a stunning Philip Treacy hat from the designer's spring/summer 2022 collection, perfectly complementing her ensemble. Kate accessorised with a chic woven 'Lily' clutch by Forever New and Gianvito Rossi heels in 'bisque suede', demonstrating her flair for monochromatic style. For the Jubilee Thanksgiving Service in 2022, Kate shone in a pastel yellow Emilia Wickstead coat dress Striking in blue Kate made a notable appearance at the King's Scottish Coronation in Edinburgh in June 2023. The Princess donned her distinctive cobalt blue Catherine Walker coat, with its elegant shawl collar and mid-length design making its third outing. She opted for equally bold accessories, including a Philip Treacy hat and matching Emmy London court shoes and clutch. Kate made a notable appearance at the King's Scottish Coronation in Edinburgh in June 2023 Scarlet sophistication At the ceremonial welcome for the President and First Lady of the Republic of Korea in November 2023, Kate made a statement in a striking scarlet ensemble. She wore Catherine Walker's eye-catching 'Beau Tie' coat dress, paired with a custom wide-brimmed hat by Jane Taylor for a regal touch. Her outfit was completed with coordinated red accessories, featuring a Miu Miu bow-embellished suede bag and Gianvito Rossi suede pumps. At the ceremonial welcome for the President and First Lady of the Republic of Korea in November 2023, Kate made a statement in a striking scarlet ensemble Timeless neutral During an official visit to Scarborough in November 2022, Kate embraced the autumn chill in a camel wool coat by Max & Co. Sticking to the warm colour palette, she paired the outerwear with a Gabriela Hearst 'Betti' cashmere turtleneck dress and Ralph Lauren 'Celia' court shoes. To finish the look, Kate carried a Demellier London Nano Montreal handbag in a rich deep toffee hue, adding a polished touch to her ensemble. During an official visit to Scarborough in November 2022, Kate embraced the autumn chill in a camel wool coat by Max & Co Soft and serene For the Easter Sunday church service at St George's Chapel in 2022, Kate twinned elegantly with Princess Charlotte in a beautiful dusky blue ensemble. Her look featured a stunning Emilia Wickstead coat dress, complete with peak lapels and a full skirt with soft, graceful pleats. Kate accessorised with a Jane Taylor diamond crepe pleated headband, an Emmy London 'Natasha' clutch, and matching 'Rebecca' pumps, creating a polished aesthetic. For the Easter Sunday church service at St George's Chapel in 2022, Kate twinned elegantly with Princess Charlotte in a beautiful dusky blue ensemble Deeply elegant At a service to commemorate the life of Queen Elizabeth II at St David's Cathedral in September 2023, Kate donned a refined coat dress by Eponine London. She embraced a burgundy theme for her accessories, teaming the look with a Sahar Millinery hat, Gianvito Rossi pumps and a Mulberry 'Bayswater' wallet clutch. The cohesive colour palette added a touch of classiness to the solemn occasion. At a service to commemorate the life of Queen Elizabeth II at St David's Cathedral in September 2023, Kate donned a refined coat dress by Eponine London Winter white chic Avoiding festive cliches, Kate arrived at Westminster Abbey for the 2023 Together At Christmas carol service dressed in a luxurious winter-white look. Her coat, crafted by Savile Row menswear tailor Chris Kerr, was layered over a coordinating Kiltane jumper and Holland Cooper trousers. She added a Strathberry 'Mosaic Nano' bag and Gianvito Rossi suede pumps, exuding understated glamour for the occasion. Avoiding festive cliches, Kate arrived at Westminster Abbey for the 2023 Together At Christmas carol service, dressed in an ivory coat layered over a coordinating Kiltane jumper and Holland Cooper trousers Jewel-tone perfection At the 2017 Trooping the Colour, Kate stunned in a head-to-toe emerald green ensemble, showcasing an elegant coat dress from Andrew Gn's spring/summer 2023 collection. She paired the outfit with a matching wide-brimmed hat by Philip Treacy, adding a touch of timeless sophistication. Completing the look were her LK Bennett 'Dora' clutch and Aquazzura 'Purist' heels, flawlessly tying the ensemble together with a harmonious pop of colour. Kate stunned in a head-to-toe emerald green ensemble, showcasing an elegant coat dress from Andrew Gn's spring/summer 2023 collection Sharp in sapphire In December 2023, Kate turned to Alexander McQueen's signature elegant tailoring. While opening the new Children's Day Surgery Unit at Evelina London Children's Hospital, the royal impressed in a tonal sapphire ensemble, comprising a single-breasted blazer and high-rise pleated trousers. She harmonised the smart suit with a soft Jigsaw cashmere sweater and Gianvito Rossi heels. The look balanced professionalism with grace, making it perfect for the royal engagement. In December 2023, Kate turned to Alexander McQueen's signature elegant tailoring Sparkling green At the Royal Variety Performance 2021, Kate dazzled in a sequin-drenched emerald green gown by Jenny Packham. The dress, known as the 'Tenille', had previously been worn during her 2019 official tour of Pakistan, where it left a memorable impression. On both occasions, the vivid hue and effervescent sparkle created an eye-catching aesthetic that earned widespread praise. To complement the gown, the royal carried a custom clutch also by Jenny Packham, Emmy London 'Rebecca' pumps and Missoma 'Zenyu' chandelier earrings. A major winter storm could dump up to four inches of snow and paralyze Texas, leaving many traumatized locals with awful memories of the 2021 mega freeze that left most of the state without power for weeks, killing hundreds. Already, one person has died due to the frigid conditions in the Lone Star State. Authorities discovered a man's frozen body near a covered bus stop in Houston's Second Ward on N. Cesar Chavez near Canal Street around 7:30 a.m. Monday, according to KPRC. The man's passing is believed to be the first death related to this week's polar vortex, which will bring high temperatures in the 30s and lows in the 20 in a state unaccustomed to sub-freezing conditions. An area from Dallas stretching to Austin is expected to get snow starting on Thursday. The state's electrical grid manager has issued a 'weather watch' warning for the entire week, with snow arriving as early as Thursday and lasting into Friday. While the Electric Reliability Council of Texas or ERCOT clarified that the power grid is expected to hold during this storm, reserves could be 'lower' than regular. 'Grid conditions are expected to be normal. A Weather Watch is not a call for conservation,' ERCOT posted to social media Monday. Snow is forecast in huge swathes of Texas on Thursday and Friday this week Subzero temperatures gripped Texas on Feb. 18, 2021 as power was restored to more homes overnight throughout the state. Photo: Workers pick away at the ice in a frozen fountain at the Richardson Civic Center just north of Dallas X, formerly called Twitter, users immediately responded with criticism and skepticism after the February 2021 winter storm left nearly the entire state without power in freezing temps due to lack of planning and incompetence by ERCOT. 'I don't trust you, I remember February 2021,' replied @wwg248. 'What exactly is the problem that needs to be remedied in this situation??? You post this every season! At some point, you need to be perfectly capable of providing uninterrupted service to Texans. Especially during high usage, which is not uncommon in this State,' vented @Jimssecondacct. 'This is your seasonal Lower Your Expectations Alert no worriesthey are already low,' blasted @RickAlaniz99. Ahead of the 2021 catastrophic ice storm that nearly collapsed the Texas electrical grid, ERCOT had urged Texans to conserve energy and not run their heaters to avoid rolling black outs. Despite residents heeding calls for conservation, the entire state which operates on its own power grid separate from the rest of the country was left in the dark-- with the exception of El Paso, which is part of the Western US power grid. At least 246 people died to hypothermia, with some people dying at the onset of the storm, and other bodies being found weeks later. However, the actual death toll could have been closer to 700, reported Buzzfeed as part of its own analysis of deaths. A tractor trailer is stuck in the slick ice and snow on State Highway 195 on February 18, 2021 in Killeen, Texas. Winter storm Uri has brought historic cold weather and power outages to Texas as storms have swept across 26 states with a mix of freezing temperatures and precipitation In this image from video, Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, walks to check in for his flight back to the U.S., at Cancun International Airport in Cancun, Mexico, Thursday, Feb. 18, 2021 This is the same storm that earned US Sen. Ted Cruz the name Cancun Cruz, as the senator fled his home in Houston for a beach getaway while his constituents were left suffering and literally dying. While improvements, like adding weather resiliency to the electrical grid have been made since 2021, many still don't trust the system. Additionally, Dallas, which is expected to get the most snow and ice mixture than anywhere else in the state, also shut down in 2011 as it was hosting the Super Bowl. Seven workers at the Cowboy's AT&T Stadium were hurt after huge chunks of ice fell from the roof. During that squall, just five inches of snow over three days brought the fourth largest metroplex in the nation to its knees-- costing the city $611 million in revenue expected for Super Bowl events. 'Just a PSA to anyone coming to Dallas for the Cotton Bowl on Friday: the weather in this city is going to be an absolute s--t show. 'They are already talking about the chance of a ton of snow on Thursday/Friday and this city doesn't do well with snow. Something to look out for,' tweeted @AriWasserman. Your phone rings. It's a representative from your bank, and they're that warning your account has been compromised. You're smart, so you immediately suspect it's a scam. But the person on the other end of the line reads off your Social Security number and account info. Only your bank could know that, right? Some 300,000 people in the US thought the same last year. People lost their life savings; one Virginia woman had a whopping $700,000 wired out of her Wells Fargo account, and another in Los Angeles lost $100,000 in minutes. Bank scams used to be a niche operation. Now, anyone can buy the tools to con you for a few bucks on the Dark Web. There are even guides to make a phone number look like it's from your bank, including phony customer service reps to answer all your questions. Pro scammers rely on social engineering, too. That's the fancy name for mind games to gain your trust. The folks are experts at exploiting fear, urgency and trust. When someone says your account is at risk, your brain shifts into panic mode, making it harder to think critically. Bank scams are skyrocketing in the US. People lost their life savings; one Virginia woman had a whopping $700,000 wired out of her Wells Fargo account, and another in Los Angeles lost $100,000 in minutes These fraudsters are skilled at creating scenarios that seem believable, like referencing recent transactions or sharing bits of accurate personal information. They also use pressure tactics, insisting you act immediately to 'save' your money. Video calls are another common method of distraction and pressure. Seeing a face makes you more trusting. A nasty bonus: If they keep you occupied, you're more likely to ignore the security alerts warning you to stop. The best thing you can do is pause. Take a moment to evaluate the situation before reacting. More on that below. The big banks lost interest Last year, banks reimbursed scam victims at pitiful rates. JPMorgan Chase reimbursed two percent of transactions disputed as scams, while Wells Fargo reimbursed four percent of scam claims. Bank of America, meanwhile, reimbursed 24 percent of its scam dispute transactions. Federal law requires banks to reimburse you only under certain circumstances, like if someone steals your phone and accesses your account. But if you're the one to sign a wire form or agree to an online transfer and you find out it's a scam, you're screwed. About Kim Komando National Radio Hall of Famer, Host on 510+ stations, Podcaster & Tech Expert. Join over 500,000 people who are in the know with her free daily newsletter. Advertisement Criminals know that, of course, and that's exactly how they carry out these attacks. Keep your money safe None of the folks who lost it all would have guessed they'd be victims. Take steps to make sure you're not one of them. Slow down: If a caller claims to be from your bank or asks for your account details, hang up. Call the bank yourself. Do not Google your bank's number; find it on their official website or the back of your card. Beware of transfer scams: Never send money via wire transfer, crypto or gift cards in response to unsolicited calls or emails. Your bank or the government will never ask you to transfer funds to a 'safe' account. Don't follow links: If you're told to visit a website, download an app or click a link, it's a phishing site or malware installation. Use a virtual phone number: I bet your real one has been leaked in a couple of data breaches this year. Use a virtual number tied to your finances scammers don't know. Review your transaction history often: The sooner you catch fraudulent activity, the better your chances of resolving it. Set up alerts: In your banking app, you can turn on alerts for transactions over a certain amount or made in a foreign country, as well as notifications about suspicious activity like attempted logins from a new browser.Some banks let you set transaction limits on withdrawals or purchases, too. Educate yourself and loved ones: Keep up to date with scammers' tricks so you can spot them. Share these tips with family and friends, especially older adults. Awareness is the best defense. It's not just bogus calls and emails Cybercriminals have a host of tricks at their disposal to fool you out of your money and personal info. Fake banking apps Scammers create counterfeit versions of popular banking apps, complete with realistic logos and interfaces. You download it thinking it's the real version. Once you log in, they steal your credentials. Always download apps directly from your bank's official website or the app store. If there are a suspiciously low number of downloads or reviews, move on. Phony bank emails with verified logos AI tools make it a breeze to create convincing emails with verified sender logos and signatures. These emails may even mimic your bank's official communications. If you're ever unsure, don't click. Log in directly through your bank's website or call the number on the back of your card. One-time passcode theft Scammers trick you into sharing a legitimate one-time passcode sent to your phone. Remember, your bank will never ask you for these codes. If you receive one unexpectedly, it may mean someone is trying to access your account. Social media 'banking representatives' Fraudsters posing as bank reps on social media platforms lure victims in with fake customer service help. This often comes after posting a public complaint. Never share account details over social media or direct messages. Banks handle issues through official channels only. QR code scams Just because it's in your bank's parking lot or near their signage, doesn't mean it's real. Scanning random QR codes is just as dangerous as going to a random URL. Don't do it. Shaped like a flying saucer, it looks more like a UFO than your next Uber. But this sci-fi style vehicle is in fact the latest in line of electric aircraft set to take to the skies over the next decade. The fully autonomous Invo Moon offers up to three passengers a 360-degree panorama above and below as it travels at speeds of up to 250mph. Crucially, it has been designed to be near silent, using a flight system hidden inside its shell rather than relying on noisy exposed propellers like many of its competitors. The 280,000 aircraft - which is the same size and weight of a small family car - will be able to move in any direction, similar to a handheld drone. Inventor Leo Kayali, a former Tesla engineer, told the Daily Mail the design was inspired by the drawings of Leonardo Da Vinci over five centuries ago. The aim is to have it certified by the US aviation authority by 2027 and to launch in all major cities including London by the end of the decade. He said future owners could even have it running as an Uber while they werent using it and make money while sitting at home. UFO-like electric flying vehicle that could be your next Uber, based on Da Vinci drawings from the 1480s The fully autonomous Invo Moon offers up to three passengers a 360-degree panorama above and below as it travels at speeds of up to 250mph The government last year announced it expected flying taxis to be routinely whizzing around British skies by 2028 - and potentially operating without a pilot by 2030. Ministers set out ambitious plans to overhaul current regulations and infrastructure, with the technology expected to boost the UK by 45bn by the end of the decade. The Invo Moon - which is 16ft in diameter and weighs 2,500lb and - can be pre-ordered for 2,000 and will ultimately cost around 280,000 on delivery. However Mr Kayali believes the vehicles - which he said should be cheap to build when mass produced - could be sold for under 50,000 in the future. While most electric flying vehicles rely on exposed propellors, the Invo Moon keeps everything within the aluminium frame. The vehicle uses a complex new aerodynamic design in which a dozen motors, all containing spinning spheres, are positioned in a circle around the side of the vehicle. Using these motors in groups of four at a time, it can move in any direction 360 degrees, meaning it has no front or back. To land, it extends three retractable legs. Mr Kayali said this means there is very little vibration, so the machine will emit no more than 45 decibels as it travels - about as noisy as the patter of light rain. The 280,000 aircraft - which is the same size and weight of a small family car - will be able to move in any direction. Pictured: Cover of the 1956 Sci-Fi movie, Earth vs the Flying Saucers Inventor Leo Kayali, a former Tesla engineer, told the Daily Mail the design was inspired by the drawings of Leonardo Da Vinci over five centuries ago Most other eVTOLs run at about 85 decibels, equivalent to the sound of a blender, and also create a lot of unnecessary excess wind, he said. Inside the cabin, there are three rotating and fully reclinable heated seats which offer views out the top and the bottom through the plexiglass windows. The luxury vehicle will also feature mood lighting, an ice machine, and smart TVs. It has a range up to 300 miles, and takes no more than 30 minutes to charge from 20 per cent to 80 per cent, Mr Kayali claims. While the design might seem futuristic, it is in fact based on concepts first invented by Da Vinci in the 1480s. The exterior is inspired by the Italian artists Armoured Car drawings, while the internal flying mechanism is a new interpretation of his aerial screw design, considered a precursor of the helicopter. The driving itself is autonomous and has been designed to follow a three-lane system similar to a motorway - but rising vertically. The speed limit increases as each level goes up - from 100mph to 250mph - and it can only land once it is back in the slowest lane. A paramedic who died for more than 11 minutes has revealed his 'tranquil' near-death experience. Adam Tapp - of London, Canada - recently appeared on the YouTube channel Beyond the Veil and recalled being in 'a state of absolute tranquility' while dead for 11-and-a-half minutes in 2018. Tapp, a paramedic of 20 years, was working on a woodshop project when a wood-etching device pierced his hand and brutally electrocuted him to death, for a bit. 'I was moving the electrodes one-by-one and it just arcs into my hands. And it was just this snap from reality,' Tapp recalled. 'And it was almost overwhelming. It was like this intense, intense level of absolute pain, like every single cell in my body was being pulled into pieces.' After the 'highly dangerous machine' fatally shocked him, a friend of his, Mark Wilson, quickly disconnected the tool and called for Tapp's wife, Stephanie, a cardiac nurse. She immediately started CPR on her husband and Wilson called 911 while Tapp was transported into his near-death experience journey. Despite the excruciating pain from the shock, Tapp, the host of the podcast 'Tapped into Psychedelics', said that while he was dead, he felt like he 'was seeing spherically from a single point outwards.' Adam Tapp, detailed his near-death experience while being dead for more than 11 minutes after being electrocuted in February 2018 After the 'highly dangerous machine' fatally shocked him, a friend of his, Mark Wilson, quickly disconnected the tool and called for Tapp's wife, Stephanie, a cardiac RN, who started CPR on her husband. (Pictured: Tapp and his wife) 'And I wasn't Adam. I wasn't dead. I wasn't anything. I was just perfect, like absolute contentment,' he said, adding that although 'there was no sense of consistency with anything,' he was 'simply existing as awareness.' 'And then I felt sort of this frequency started washing over me, and it was, it was like this fractal patterns. And it was like gasoline on water, this rainbow effect that was iridescent to some extent. 'And it was just his juxtaposition of thoughts and feelings and emotions,' Tapp explained, adding that he felt himself 'being pulled into pieces and deposited into everything.' 'It was like basically becoming fabric of the universe. And it was absolutely perfect. Like there was no fear and it was nothing. This was just the natural progression of what every single one of us is going to do,' he added. While his experience continued, Tapp said he felt like he was being electrocuted again, but this time it was his fellow paramedics trying to bring him back to life. 'At the time, I didn't understand what was happening. But in hindsight, it was me being defibrillated. I was defibrillated twice. I was in a ventricle fibrillation arrhythmia, which is basically the heart spasming,' he detailed. Once the electrocution feeling stopped, Tapp said he soon became aware of what was happening. Tapp, an ambulance of 20 years, recalled being in 'a state of absolute tranquility' while dead that day 'And now I'm aware that I'm Adam, that I'm dead, that I just got electrocuted,' he said, adding that he was then in a 'void of being' for a 'really long time.' He also recalled the 'smell of burnt flesh', as he showed his missing finger that was burnt off from the accident, as well as his other hand, which suffered third degree burns as a result. In the hospital, Tapp was in a coma for about eight hours before he woke up intubated in the intensive care unit. Unaware of just how long he's been admitted, Tapp said he was surprised to find out he was there for just hours. 'Like if someone had told me it had been five years or a decade, I would have been completely on point with that,' Tapp said. After being released from the hospital, Tapp said he started to become 'hyper aware' about himself, including his 'natural pheromonal smell' and 'the texture of my skin.' Over time, Tapp eventually 'came back to the acceptance of being in my body', but was still 'left with this overwhelming sense that this is just the stage. Is simply an evolution of consciousness. After being released from the hospital, Tapp said he started to become 'hyper aware' about himself, including his 'natural pheromonal smell' and 'the texture of my skin' 'This is simply transient, where we exist right now,' he continued. After the frightening incident, Tapp said he started to show an interest in psychedelics. 'I feel that the very nature of death experiences is so integrally related to these secular compounds and dimethyltryptamine in our bodies and in our brain was responsible for dreaming and death,' he explained. He added that the experience has also made him 'so deeply spiritual' after coming face-to-face with 'infinite consciousness.' Tapp has also noticed how he has personally changed, adding that he has become more in tune with enjoying each moment, 'as opposed to applying meaning to everything.' 'And I think that at the end of the day, the one thing that I would say to someone if they asked me what I took from this, or the advice associated with it, is that death is quite possibly the most natural thing that happens,' he said. 'Being dead was easy. It was perfect, it was beautiful. You know, it's being alive that's difficult and hard.' An interactive map shows how winter storm Blair will barrel across the eastern US this week. More than 60 million have been placed under severe weather alerts, including in the cities of Baltimore, Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Louisville, Kentucky and Washington DC. Blair is currently tracking eastward into the Appalachians and the mid-Atlantic with very heavy snowfall expected through Monday. Heavy snow, icing and high winds will create travel chaos from the Ohio Valley to the mid-Atlantic, prompting schools and government offices to shutter. As of Monday morning, at least three people in Virginia and Kansas have died in traffic accidents related to winter storm Blair. In affected areas, 'Persons should consider delaying all travel. Motorists should use extreme caution if travel is absolutely necessary,' the National Weather Service (NWS) warned. Several states directly in the storm's path are currently suffering widespread power outages, with more than 350,000 customers impacted across Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Virginia and West Virginia, according to poweroutage.us. An additional 10,600 are without electricity in Texas, which is not in the storm's direct path, but is still getting lashed by up to 50 mile per hour wind gusts and below average temperatures from Blair. Southeastern states will also be impacted as warm air from the Gulf of Mexico clashes with Blair's cold front. Strong to severe thunderstorms will develop over parts of the region on Monday, battering states with high-speed wind gusts, isolated tornadoes, frequent lighting and possibly hail. Your browser does not support iframes. At least three people have been killed in car accidents during the storm. Pictured are vehicles braving Blair in Ohio The system will produce six to 12 inches of snow across the mid-Atlantic, including the Washington DC metro area, the NWS stated in a 2:50am ET update. The storm hit the Plains and the Midwest over the weekend, delivering the heaviest snowfall in years to certain areas. An additional two to four inches of snow will fall across portions of the Ohio Valley and Central Appalachians, where travel disruptions will continue, the agency added. On top of the snow, the eastern two-thirds of the US will experience dangerous, bone-chilling cold and wind chills starting Monday, with temperatures 12 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit below normal. The storm is wreaking havoc on the nation's passenger railways, with more than 20 cancellations Sunday and more than 40 planned for Monday and Tuesday. Nearly 1,500 flights were canceled and another 740 delayed nationwide on Monday morning, according to tracking platform FlightAware. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Arlington, Virginia has cancelled 426 flights Monday, roughly half of its total daily flights. The storm is wreaking havoc in the Ohio Valley as it moves east out of the Midwest. School closings are expected to be widespread Monday, as districts in Indiana, Virginia, Kentucky, Missouri and Kansas began announcing cancellations and delays Sunday afternoon. The eastern two-thirds of the US will experience dangerous, bone-chilling cold and wind chills starting Monday, with temperatures 12 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit below normal Kansas City was a skating rink late this afternoon! This was some of the worst driving conditions Ive been in. The only reason this wasnt a more serious situation is people were driving pretty good and slow. Most of the crashes were the slow motion yep we are gonna crash in pic.twitter.com/XKKNzNI3Uq Brian Emfinger (@brianemfinger) January 5, 2025 Owensboro, Kentucky received heavy snowfall as winter storm Blair barreled across the Ohio Valley Roughly ten inches of snow fell across Kansas, with a whopping 18 inches the maximum reported for this storm thus far in Chapman and St. George. On Sunday, Kansas City, Missouri saw its heaviest snowstorm since February 1993, with 11 inches of accumulation. Thus far, the highest snowfall total for this state is 18 inches at three different northeastern locations. A record eight inches of snow fell Sunday at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, leading to dozens of flight cancellations that lingered into Monday. A few more inches of snow were expected Monday across the Cincinnati area, where car and truck crashes shutdown at least two major routes leading into downtown. In Indiana, snow fully covered portions of Interstate 64, Interstate 69 and US Route 41, prompting Indiana State Police to urge motorists to stay off the roads as plows worked to keep up. Salina, Kansas: A photo released by Kansas Highway Patrol shows a car wedged between two trucks due to icy weather on January 4 As of Monday morning at 9:20am ET, winter storm Blair was moving into mid-Atlantic states, delivering heavy snow Snow, rain and a wintery mix will continue to fall along the Eastern Seaboard through Monday In Kentucky, Louisville recorded 7.7 inches of snow on Sunday, which set a new record for the highest snowfall, smashing the previous record of 3 inches in 1910. Over the weekend, at least 600 motorists were stranded in Missouri, authorities said. Hundreds of car accidents were reported in Virginia, Indiana, Kansas and Kentucky, where a state trooper was treated for non-life-threatening injuries after his patrol car was hit. In Virginia alone, more than 200 vehicle crashes have occurred in a 12-hour period between 4pm Sunday and 4am Monday, according to state police, one of which was fatal. The 32-year-old man died around midnight in Wakefield, which is south of Richmond, after his truck ran off the road and struck a tree. Police said he was driving too fast for roadway conditions and wasnt wearing a seat belt, while alcohol appears to be a factor. Two others are reported dead in a single-vehicle crash in Sedgwick County, Kansas. The accident occurred at 8:40 p.m. on Sunday. Mid-Atlantic states have already received several inches of snow, and could receive an additional inch to one inch by the end of the day as the storm marches further East. Over the next 24 hours, Blair will deliver an additional one to five inches of snow to cities such as Indianapolis, Charleston and Washington DC A wide swath of the eastern US is under winter weather advisories as winter storm Blair surges toward the Atlantic coast Baltimore and Washington DC both reported moderate to heavy snow and low visibility early this morning. Parts of the DC metro area have seen up to six inches of snowfall, with some sleet is beginning to mix in. But DC, Maryland and Virginia can expect a break from the severe winter weather in the next few hours, according to radar which shows a 'dry slot' approaching this area, The Weather Channel reported. Winter storm Blair will mostly remain south of the Northeast, but it will have some impact on the tri-state area and the Philadelphia metro area. All of South Jersey is under a weather alert, with Ocean County likely to see the highest accumulation of three to six inches of snow Monday. The rest of the state could see one to three inches. New York's Hudson Valley, Long Island and the state of Connecticut can also expect a light dusting to two inches. Overall, NYC is expected to receive one to two inches. The highest totals are most likely be found in Staten Island, along with southern portions of Brooklyn and Queens. Lower Chester counties in Pennsylvania are under a winter storm alert including Philadelphia where two to four inches are expected to accumulate Monday. In the Southeast, Blair's impact will look quite different, with severe thunderstorms, scattered tornadoes and high winds battering states along the Gulf Coast. The NWS issued cold weather advisories for a large swath of Texas including Dallas and Fort Worth, southern Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and the Florida panhandle down to central Florida. Freeze warnings have been issued for southeast Texas and southwest Louisiana, as well as northeast Florida and southeast Georgia. The storm will continue to ravage the eastern US through Tuesday, when it is expected to move offshore and into the Atlantic. It was one of the most technologically advanced empires in history. But the Romans may have been battling with cognitive decline due to pollution, according to a study. Researchers suggest that widespread lead pollution caused by mining lowered the IQ of essentially the entire European population at the time. For their study the team, from the Desert Research Institute in Nevada, examined ice cores columns of ice up to 3,400m long that are extracted using enormous drills. Gas bubbles trapped in the ice offer insights into the atmosphere of past eras, while the presence of pollutants such as lead can be used to indicate industrial activity. Analysis of three ice cores revealed that European lead emissions sharply increased around 15 BCE following the rise of the Roman empire. They remained high for around 150 years until the Empire began to decline. By combining their findings with current research linking lead exposure to cognitive decline, the scientists estimated lead pollution during this time would have resulting in an average increase in childhood blood levels of around 2.5 micrograms per deciliter. It was one of the most technologically advanced empires in history. But the Romans may have been battling with cognitive decline due to pollution, according to a study For their study the team, from the Desert Research Institute in Nevada, examined ice cores columns of ice up to 3,400m long that are extracted using enormous drills An, as a result, this would have led to widespread cognitive declines of 2 to 3 IQ points throughout the Roman empire. 'This is the first study to take a pollution record from an ice core and invert it to get atmospheric concentrations of pollution and then assess human impacts,' Joe McConnell, lead author of the study, said. 'The idea that we can do this for 2,000 years ago is pretty novel and exciting.' Ancient lead pollution stemmed largely from silver mining, when the lead-rich mineral galena was melted down to extract silver. Much of this lead was then released into the atmosphere. In adults, high levels of lead exposure are linked to infertility, anaemia, memory loss, cardiovascular disease, cancer and reduced immune response. Meanwhile among children, even low levels of exposure have been associated with reduced IQ, concentration challenges and reduced academic success. 'Lead is known to have a wide range of human health impacts, but we chose to focus on cognitive decline because it's something we can put a number on,' co-author Nathan Chellman said. Gas bubbles trapped in the ice offer insights into the atmosphere of past eras, while the presence of pollutants such as lead can be used to indicate industrial activity By combining their findings with current research linking lead exposure to cognitive decline, the scientists estimated lead pollution during this time would have resulting in an average increase in childhood blood levels of around 2.5 micrograms per deciliter. Pictured: Grass covered mounds mark the site of the Roman-era lead mine at Charterhouse on Mendip 'An IQ reduction of 2 to 3 points doesn't sound like much, but when you apply that to essentially the entire European population, it's kind of a big deal.' Although ice core records show that Arctic lead pollution was 40-fold higher in the early 1970s at its peak the study reveals how 'humans have been impacting their health for thousands of years through industrial activity', the team said. Their findings were published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). People across the US are reporting a mysterious fog with a 'chemical smell' that they believe is making them sick within minutes of exposure. Reports of the 'unnatural' fog began late December in parts of Texas, Wisconsin, Iowa, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, North Dakota, Florida, and Minnesota. Locals have flooded social media with videos explaining their 'symptoms' since the fog appeared in their area, which have included coughing, sore throat, congestion, eye irritation, lethargy, loss of appetite and gut issues. A Florida resident told DailyMail.com that she stopped at a gas station for about 10 minutes and began feeling ill. 'Within about and hour, I kept sneezing over and over for about three hours, and my eyes were really puffy,' she said. 'I got very warm and I felt like I had a fever, and my stomach was cramping.' One TikTok user, who goes by 'Rusky,' said he has also been experiencing symptoms: 'Sore throat, coughing, tired, lethargic I'm still recovering from it.' He stated in the video that all of his symptoms are a direct result of the fog. But aside from the reports, experts have stated that there is no evidence to suggest that this 'sickness-causing' fog is anything but a co-occurrence of a natural weather event and the viruses that are especially common this time of year. 'Sore throat, coughing, tired, lethargic I'm still recovering from it,' said one TikTok user posting from the Pacific Northwest Florida resident Holly Meyer Lucas also shared a video on TikTok: 'I've been sick and my eyes have been an absolute painful disaster for like two weeks now. 'We've had the fog in Florida, which is absolutely not normal,' she said. Reports have claimed that the fog is unusual not just because of its smell, but also because it appears as 'white particles' swirling in the air. The idea about the particles have led some Americans to check their air filters, which a North Dakota resident recently did and made a shocking discovery. He claimed the air filter was recently changed before the investigation. 'Super dirty, so quickly,' he said in a video, describing the filter. He showed it next to a brand new filter to demonstrate how much residue had accumulated. 'Beware the fog,' the video's text reads. David Bamber, from St Petersburg, Florida, shared a TikTok video of himself walking through the dense fog, explaining that normal fog typically dissipates later in the day, but the recent fog lingers into all hours of the night. 'The weirdest part is the taste and smell,' said Bamber. 'It's smells like after you set off a bunch of fireworks and the taste of the air is toxic. It is super weird.' Another TikTok user from North Dakota posted a video showing his house's air filter, which he claimed to have changed recently, filled with residue Holly Meyer Lucas from Florida posted a TikTok describing how she has been sick and suffering from 'painful' eyes since the fog appeared in her state While the fog's 'white particle' appearance may seem unusual, fog is a visible aerosol consisting of tiny water droplets or ice crystals suspended in the air at or near the Earth's surface. Shining a light in the fog makes these particles visible. As for the 'chemical' smell people have described, fog can absorb and trap polluted air near the Earth's surface, acting as a carrier for car exhaust, industrial emissions and other airborne chemicals. 'When fog forms, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and other polluting gases are taken up or 'scavenged' by fog water droplets,' explained Rudolf Husar, a Washington University atmospheric scientist, in an article for NASA Earth Observatory. What's more, smells become more potent in humid air because the water droplets trap the odor-causing molecules and allow them to linger for longer and remain concentrated. Plus, persistent foggy weather is not unusual for this time of year. The 'chemical' smell associated with this recent fog is likely not coming from the fog itself, but rather from pollutants that were already present in the air when the fog formed. The respiratory-illness-like symptoms people have been reporting can also be explained by natural fog. A Florida resident told DailyMail.com that they stopped at a gas station (pictured) for about 10 minutes and began feeling ill. She then went into a coughing fit and had a fever Conspiracy theories are running rampant with people suggesting the fog could be a kind of chemical weapon or is related to the drones that mysteriously plagued the nation in December Multiple studies have shown that fog can cause respiratory issues such as coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, congestion and wheezing, especially in people with asthma. That's because our lungs are designed to inhale oxygen, not water. When we inhale the increased moisture content of the air, it can irritate the respiratory system and trigger uncomfortable symptoms. Fog can be especially irritating when it is mixed with airborne pollutants, allergens or other particles. But the reports have sparked a wave of conspiracy theories that are currently sweeping social media. The scare first began during the last week of the year and blew up on social media on December 29, when postings related to the fog skyrocketed. While fog typically looks like a soupy gray mist, shining a light directly through it causes the light to scatter off of each individual water droplet that makes up the fog Many of these posts speculate that the fog may be a chemical or biological weapon involved in a terrorist plot, or even an experiment conducted by our own government. People who subscribe to that latter theory have compared the fog to Operation Sea Spray, a secret US Navy biological warfare experiment that sprayed massive amounts of bacteria into the air two miles off the coast of San Francisco, California. As for the 'chemical' smell people have been describing, fog can absorb and trap polluted air near Earth's surface, making their scents more potent Multiple studies have shown that fog can cause respiratory issues such as coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, congestion and wheezing. PIctured is a still from a camera in Texas, showing the particles in the fog The purpose of this experiment, conducted in 1950, was to learn how vulnerable large US cities like San Francisco would be to a biowarfare attack by terrorists. Though the Navy thought they were spraying bacteria was completely harmless to humans, officials quickly realized that was not the case when 11 Bay Area residents rushed to the hospital with severe urinary tract infections. One affected person who was recovering from prostate surgery died. Others have suggested that the fog could be related to the unexplained drones that plagued the Northeast in recent months. 'Well weren't there drones that sprayed something? I seem to recall some videos of that somewhere... No idea of the validity though,' asked one X user. Newly declassified bombshell records of an infamous CIA mind control program, MKUltra, reveal how Americans were drugged and tortured more than 60 years ago. The collection of more than 1,200 pages detail how the CIA used induced sleep, electroshocks and 'psychic driving' on drugged subjects who were psychologically tortured for weeks or months to reprogram their minds. The subjects included criminals, mental patients and drug addicts, but also Army soldiers and average citizens who were given drugs without their knowledge. A total of 144 projects were conducted from 1953 to 1964, aimed at developing procedures and drugs that could be used during interrogations, weakening individuals and forcing confessions through brainwashing and psychological torture. The newly declassified pages detail how the CIA used methods such as induced sleep, electroshocks, and 'psychic driving,' under which drugged subjects were psychologically tortured for weeks or months to reprogram their minds. While it has long been said that subjects only included prisoners, mental patients and drug addicts, one report showed that some CIA and Army officials and 'subjects in normal life settings' were 'unwittingly' given LSD over the decade-long experiment. In a newly unsealed document from 1956, researchers were developing 'an anti-interrogation drug' by testing 'materials capable of producing alterations in the human central nervous system which are reflected as alterations in human behavior.' A memo about a classified meeting showed that the CIA contemplated the possibility of testing on foreign nationals,' but decided that 'unwitting testing on American citizens must be continued' instead. The CIA was testing drugs and other techniques on American citizens during the 1950s and 60s to develops new interrogation processes such as mind control Gangster James 'Whitey' Bulger, a former organized crime boss, was used as a test subject in 1957 while an inmate at the Atlanta penitentiary. He explained he was one of eight convicts in a panic and paranoid state while in MKUltra Gangster James 'Whitey' Bulger, a former organized crime boss, was used as a test subject in 1957 while an inmate at the Atlanta penitentiary. He explained he was one of eight convicts in a panic and paranoid state while in MKUltra. 'Total loss of appetite. Hallucinating. The room would change shape. Hours of paranoia and feeling violent,' Bulger penned. 'We experienced horrible periods of living nightmares and even blood coming out of the walls. Guys turning to skeletons in front of me. I saw a camera change into the head of a dog. I felt like I was going insane.' The National Security Archive (NSA) said in a statement: 'The CIA conducted terrifying experiments using drugs, hypnosis, isolation, sensory deprivation, and other extreme techniques on human subjects, often US citizens, who frequently had no idea what was being done to them or that they were part of a CIA test. 'These records also shed light on an especially dark period in the history of the behavioral sciences in which some of the top physicians in the field conducted research and experiments usually associated with the Nazi doctors who were tried at Nuremberg.' A total of 20 documents with more than 1,200 pages were declassified on December 23, published by the NSA and ProQuest. 'Despite the Agency's efforts to erase this hidden history, the documents that survived this purge and that have been gathered together here present a compelling and unsettling narrative of the CIA's decades-long effort to discover and test ways to erase and reprogram the human mind,' shared NSA. Former US Deputy Director of the CIA Allen Dulles ordered the agency to develop mind-controlling drugs to be used against the Soviets during the Cold War. The CIA was testing drugs and other techniques on American citizens during the 1950s and 60s to develops new interrogation processes such as mind control. Former US Deputy Director of the CIA Allen Dulles (pictured) ordered the agency to develop mind-controlling drugs 'We in the West, are somewhat handicapped in brain warfare,' he said. A memorandum dated November 15, 1954 details how the CIA's Technical Services Section (TSS) requested funding for a project at Georgetown University Hospital that would provide cover for research under the agency's 'biological and chemical warfare program.' Using a philanthropic organization as a 'cut-out,' the CIA partially funded 'a new research wing' of the hospital (the Gorman Annex) and used part of it to conduct 'Agency-sponsored research in these sensitive fields.' MKULTRA, the memo states, provided research and development funding 'for highly sensitive projects in certain fields, including covert biological, chemical and radiological warfare' but did not specifically authorize funds to establish cover for these programs. The program, which ran from 1953 to 1973, performed 144 projects aimed at developing procedures and drugs that could be used during interrogations,weakening individuals and forcing confessions through brainwashing and psychological torture In 1955, the secret program listed 17 'materials and methods' that the division was working on, including substances that 'promote illogical thinking, would help individuals to endure 'privation, torture and coercion during interrogation' and attempts at 'brain-washing.' The list also featured substances that would 'produce physical disablement, including paralysis, and others that alter personality structure' or that 'produce 'pure' euphoria with no subsequent let-down.' A 'knockout pill' was also to be developed, which would be used in 'surreptitious druggings and to produce amnesia, among other things.' Another declassified document dated June 7, 1956, discusses an MKUltra subproject to be led by Carl Pfeiffer of Emory University who was known to conduct experiments on prisoners. Pfeiffer was approved to develop 'an anti-interrogation drug' and 'tests in human volunteers.' The objectives included administering 'large doses of LSD-25 in normal human volunteers.' In 1955, the secret program listed 17 'materials and methods' that the division was working on, including substances that 'promote illogical thinking, would help individuals to endure 'privation, torture and coercion during interrogation' and attempts at 'brain-washing' The list also featured substances that would 'produce physical disablement, including paralysis, and others that alter personality structure' or that 'produce 'pure' euphoria with no subsequent let-down' The document does not specify the amount given, but taking large doses of the drug can induce terrifying hallucinations. Another point was 'to evaluate the threshold dose levels in humans of a particular natural product to be supplied by [deleted].' The supplier's name was redacted from the report, but pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly developed a process to streamline the manufacture of LSD in late 1954. '[The] CIA had [LSD] in abundance thanks to Eli Lilly, which had developed the capacity to produce the drug in 'tonnage quantities' and had agreed to become the agency's supplier,' according to NSA. The documents also show that the CIA established safehouses in 1956, which were run by narcotics agent George White 'for conducting experiments involving the covert administration of physiologically active materials to unwitting subjects.' Sidney Gottlieb, a chemist and spymaster who headed the CIA in the 50s and 60s, admitted in the report that activities were 'highly unorthodox nature.' Because of that 'it [was] 'impossible to require that they provide a receipt for these payments of that they indicate the precise manner in which the funds were spent,' he wrote. One of the last documents of the program, published in 1963, revealed researchers involved with MKUltra used radiation, electro-shock, various fields of psychology, psychiatry, sociology, and anthropology, graphology, harassment [sic] substances, and paramilitary devices and materials' during the secret initiative. It focused on drug experiments conducted at CIA safehouses, using suspect criminals as test subjects, but also 'unwitting subjects drawn from all walks of life.' 'It was noted earlier that the capabilities of MKUltra substances to produce disabling or discrediting effects or to increase the effectiveness of interrogation of hostile subjects cannot be established solely through testing on volunteer populations,' it reads. As of 1960, however, the CIA was unable to develop a knockout pill, truth serum, aphrodisiac or recruitment pill. Also during that time, the report noted that 25 of the 144 projects 'remained in existence at present' - 1960. While most of the documents were destroyed in 1973, the US Church Committee chaired by Senator Frank Church opened an investigation into MKUltra in 1975. 'The United States must not adopt the tactics of the enemy. Means are as important as ends,' Frank's 1977 report stated. 'Crises make it tempting to ignore the wise restraints that make men free. But each time we do so, each time the means we use are wrong, our inner strength, the strength which makes us free, is lessened.' That report found that there were at least six subprojects that involved testing on unwitting subjects and other projects researcher 'drugs, toxins and biologicals in human tissue.' The then-director of the CIA, Adam Stansfield Turner spoke during the investigation, saying the MKUltra's activities were more than 12 years old following the investigation. 'They in no way represent the current activities or policies of the Central Intelligence Agency,' he added. The investigation brought MKUltra to light, sparking public outcry and widespread criticism of the CIA's unethical practices. That led to the establishment of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence which provided ongoing oversight of intelligence agencies. After nearly 17 years working at the Today Show, Hoda Kotb is just days away from her final taping. The long-time anchor has been a friendly face for 17 years on the flagship show, as well as being a part of NBC News for nearly three decades. However, the TV legend has made the decision to close this chapter of her career after turning 60 last summer. Opening up about her decision in September - when she officially announced her plans to depart - the mother-of-two explained that she has been thinking long and hard about the decision. She wrote in a letter to her colleagues: 'I've been weighing this decision for quite a while Am I truly ready? But, my 60th birthday celebration on the Plaza felt like a shift. 'Like a massive, joyful YES, you are! I saw it all so clearly: my broadcast career has been beyond meaningful, a new decade of my life lies ahead, and now my daughters and my mom need and deserve a bigger slice of my time pie. 'I will miss you all desperately, but I'm ready and excited.' Now, as her last day on the network approaches, here's all we know about Hoda last day and the true reason why she chose to say goodbye to Today. Hoda Kotb is just days away from her final taping after nearly 17 years working at the Today Show When is Hoda Kotb's last day? Hoda will make her last appearance on Today on Friday, January 10. On November 14, it was revealed live on air that Craig Melvin, 45, would officially replace Hoda with Savannah Guthrie, 52, announcing the news. 'I just want to say that we will spend a week celebrating you. As you mentioned, we have a lot to celebrate,' Savannah said to Hoda. 'Though you are irreplaceable, we are so excited about the news in our Today family and that is the person sitting right next to me, our dear friend and talented, wonderful, hard-working, most worthy of this, Craig Melvin is the new anchor of the Today show,' she continued. 'And let me just say that the staff, the larger staff found out this morning, and people broke into applause. This is the one of the most popular decisions NBC news has ever made.' Looking emotional, Craig then gave a speech and said: 'I am beyond excited and grateful, and I just, you know, I've had a lot of conversations yesterday with a lot of people who mean a lot to me, and I want to obviously thank NBC and the folks here who have deemed me worthy... 'People see us on TV every morning, what they don't see are the folks behind these cameras and downstairs, we have the best team in television news and I'm honored to be a part of that.' Hoda will make her last appearance on Today on Friday, January 10 (pictured with Jenna Bush Hager) Why is Hoda leaving the Today Show? The TV icon - who reportedly earns around $8 million a year - wrote a letter explaining her 'painful' decision to her colleagues, explaining that marking her 60th birthday sparked a seismic 'shift' in her life. 'As I write this, my heart is all over the map,' Hoda said. 'I know I'm making the right decision, but it's a painful one. And you all are the reason why. They say two things can be right at the same time, and I'm feeling that so deeply right now. I love you and it's time for me to leave the show. 'My time at NBC has been the longest professional love affair of my life. But only because you've been beside me on this twenty-six-year adventure. Looking back, the math is nuts. 26 years at NBC News - Ten years at Dateline, seven on the seven o'clock hour, sixteen on the ten o'clock hour.' She continued: 'I'm picturing your faces and your families and all the ways you've lifted me up and inspired me. That's my heart singing. So many of my professional relationships have become some of my most cherished friendships.' The host went on to pay a heart breaking tribute to her 'ride-or-die' Jenna Bush Hager and claimed she will 'desperately' miss everyone she has worked with on the popular morning show. 'Savannah: my rock,' she continued. 'Jenna: my ride-or-die. Al: my longest friend at 30 Rock. Craig, Carson, Sheinelle and Dylan: my family. Libby, Mazz and Talia: my fearless leaders. I will miss each and every one of you at TODAY desperately.' The TV star added that she has been thinking long and hard about the decision as she continued: 'I've been weighing this decision for quite a while Am I truly ready? But, my 60th birthday celebration on the Plaza felt like a shift. On November 14, it was revealed live on air that Craig Melvin (left), 45, would officially replace Hoda with Savannah Guthrie (centre left), 52, announcing the news 'Like a massive, joyful YES, you are! I saw it all so clearly: my broadcast career has been beyond meaningful, a new decade of my life lies ahead, and now my daughters and my mom need and deserve a bigger slice of my time pie. I will miss you all desperately, but I'm ready and excited. 'Because I'll be working through the beginning of 2025, there's plenty of time to talk about what's ahead for all of us. But one thing I know for sure right now is this: everything's going to be just fine. The Peacock's feathers are never ruffled no matter who comes or goes. TODAY and its amazing people all of you never waver. You always weather change with grace and guts.' She concluded: 'Happily and gratefully, I plan to remain a part of the NBC family, the longest work relationship I've been lucky enough to hold close to my heart. I'll be around. How could I not? Family is family and you all will always be a part of mine.' Hoda joined NBC in 1998 as a Dateline correspondent, and in September 2007 became the co-host for the fourth hour of Today alongside Ann Curry and Natalie Morales. She was joined by Kathie Lee Gifford at the news and booze desk the following March until April 2019, when Kathie was replaced by Jenna Bush Hager. Who is Hoda Kotb's replacement? Craig Melvin was named as Hoda's replacement soon after she announced her departure. Craig, 45, had a knack for journalism from a young age, and landed his first job as a reporter at NBC affiliate WIS-TV when he was in high school. After graduating from Wofford College in South Carolina, he officially joined the network's morning news team, and for years, he slowly worked his way up before eventually switching to Washington, D.C.-based network WRC-TV. In 2011, he joined MSNBC as a daytime anchor, and within his first year there, he covered a slew of massive events including the Republican and Democratic national conventions and election night. He began cohosting Today's Third Hour in 2018. Just months after its record-breaking run at the Emmy Awards, Shogun has proven once again it's the TV series to beat come awards season. The FX series adapted from James Clavell's 1975 historical novel won a record 18 Emmys in September, the biggest one-year haul for any show in Emmys history. Shogun ultimately earned a clean sweep, winning all four awards it was nominated for at the ceremony, held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles. Max's comedy series Hacks also had a big night with two wins, while Netflix's Baby Reindeer also grabbed a pair of statuettes as well. Shogun's took home the biggest award of the night on the TV side - Best TV Series, Drama, beating out Apple TV Plus' The Diplomat, Prime Video's Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Netflix's Squid Game, Apple TV Plus' Slow Horses and Peacock's The Day of the Jackal. It also took home three of the top acting awards, with Hiroyuki Sanada taking home Best TV Actor - Drama, Anna Sawai earning Best TV Actress - Drama and Tadanobu Asano winning Best Supporting Actor - TV for its clean sweep. Shogun ultimately earned a clean sweep, winning all four awards it was nominated for at the ceremony, held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles Max's comedy series Hacks also had a big night with two wins, while Netflix 's Baby Reindeer also grabbed a pair of statuettes as well Sanada beat out Donald Glover (Mr. and Mrs. Smith), Jake Gyllenhaal (Presumed Innocent), Gary Oldman (Slow Horses), Eddie Redmayne (The Day of the Jackal) and Billy Bob Thornton (Landman) for his first win and nomination. 'Thank you, Golden Globes, for recognizing me. I'm so happy to be here with these great nominees. And thank you, FX, Disney, Hulu, and all the cast members and crew of Shogun for sharing this amazing journey,' he said. He also thanked 'everyone who has been in my life' because they have 'brought me here,' before offering some sage advice for young actors and creators. 'I would like to say, for the young actors and creators in the world, please be yourself, believe in yourself, and never give up. Good luck,' he said. Anna Sawai beat out Kathy Bates (Matlock), Emma D'Arcy (House of the Dragon), Maya Erskine (Mr. and Mrs. Smith), Keira Knightley (Black Doves) and Keri Russell (The Diplomat), and while she thanked the Golden Globe voters, she insisted, 'I would vote for Kathy Bates any day.' 'Thank you to our incredible writers. Without a good script, it's impossible to give a performance to our fullest potential. Thank you to everyone else. I'm going to thank you later. Thank you!' she said. Tadanobu Asano beat out Javier Bardem (Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story), Harrison Ford (Shrinking), Jack Lowden (Slow Horses), Diego Luna (La Maquina) and Ebon Moss-Bachrach (The Bear) in his first win and nomination. 'Wow! Maybe you don't know me. I am an actor from Japan. My name is Tadanobu Asano. Thank you so much!' he said to applause. Sanada beat out Donald Glover (Mr. and Mrs. Smith), Jake Gyllenhaal (Presumed Innocent), Gary Oldman (Slow Horses), Eddie Redmayne (The Day of the Jackal) and Billy Bob Thornton (Landman) for his first win and nomination 'I would like to say, for the young actors and creators in the world, please be yourself, believe in yourself, and never give up. Good luck,' he said Anna Sawai beat out Kathy Bates (Matlock), Emma D'Arcy (House of the Dragon), Maya Erskine (Mr. and Mrs. Smith), Keira Knightley (Black Doves) and Keri Russell (The Diplomat), and while she thanked the Golden Globe voters, she insisted, 'I would vote for Kathy Bates any day' Tadanobu Asano beat out Javier Bardem (Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story), Harrison Ford (Shrinking), Jack Lowden (Slow Horses), Diego Luna (La Maquina) and Ebon Moss-Bachrach (The Bear) in his first win and nomination Netflix's Baby Reindeer won Best Limited TV series while Jessica Gunning won Best Supporting Actress - TV Other TV winners included Colin Farrell for Best TV Actor - Limited Series for his role as the title character in The Penguin Jodie Foster also won Best TV Actress - Limited Series for True Detective: Night Country He said he has to go back to Tokyo tonight and he's shooting again tomorrow morning, though he added, 'This is a very big present for me! Thank you so much! Thank you, Shogun team! Thank you, everybody! I'm very happy! Thank you!' Hacks also won the coveted Best Comedy Series Golden Globe, while Jean Smart took home her second Globe for the hit show. Hacks beat out Abbott Elementary, The Bear, The Gentlemen, Nobody Wants This and Only Murders in the Building. Smart won over Kristen Bell (Nobody Wants This), Quinta Brunson (Abbott Elementary), Ayo Edebiri (The Bear), Selena Gomez (Only Murders in the Building) and Kathryn Hahn (Agatha All Along). Netflix's Baby Reindeer won Best Limited TV series while Jessica Gunning won Best Supporting Actress - TV. Other TV winners included Colin Farrell for Best TV Actor - Limited Series for his role as the title character in The Penguin and Jodie Foster for Best TV Actress - Limited Series for True Detective: Night Country. This Morning viewers had a lot of complaints about Monday's interview with new MasterChef presenter Grace Dent. In December it was revealed that the restaurant critic, 51, would replace Gregg as a judge on the much-loved BBC cooking show. It comes after Gregg stepped down from his role in November when a number of historical allegations were made about him. On Monday's instalment of the ITV talk show, Grace appeared on the sofa with Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard to talk about her new gig. During the chat, the trio didn't mention Gregg at all, ruffling viewers' feathers. One pointed out on X: 'Interested to see if they're going to do this whole segment without addressing the elephant (not) in the room.' This Morning fans all took to X while Grace Dent was on This Morning on Monday Grace will judge the upcoming series of MasterChef with John Torode Gregg (right) stood down from his role on the show in 2024 They later fumed: 'What a truly jaw-droppingly 'nothing' interview. It's like once they realised they couldn't discuss Gregg Wallace there was f**k-all to talk about.' While others took to the social media platform to share their thoughts on the new judge, as well as the show in general. Another said: '#masterchefuk has had it's day. Getting a new judge is OK, BUT if they want to survive they need to change to the Australian format, current format is past it's "use by date".' A fourth brutally tweeted: 'Grace Dent seems very stuck up her own a***, think shell ruin masterchef.' A fifth added: 'I find her equally as irritating as her predecessor.' A sixth shared: 'I like Grace Dent but still think the full-time role should've gone to Jay Rayner.' However others couldn't contain their excitement back when the news was revealed on Instagram. One said: 'I adore you Grace so while I'm actually quite sad that Gregg has gone they couldn't have chosen a better person to take his place.' Grace looked incredible in a blue velvet plunging dress on the show The star opened up about her stint on the upcoming series of the programme Many viewers took to X to share their thoughts on the new judge 'Great news, love Graces podcast,' another wrote. A third confessed: 'This is genius!x I actually can't wait!' A fourth added: 'Excellent choice.' Speaking about her upcoming role on the show, Grace previously said: 'I've been watching MasterChef since I was a girl sitting with my dad on the sofa. 'My whole family watches it. 'It's all about uncovering and championing talent and to have ended up in this position, is more than a dream to me. 'I'm so excited that I can't eat, which is severely detrimental to a restaurant critic. 'I feel very lucky to be stepping in for the next Celebrity MasterChef. Grace has appeared as a critic on the much-loved show in the past 'I can't wait to meet the fresh celebrity faces for 2025.' I'm A Celebrity star Grace has appeared on MasterChef as a guest critic. Not only that, she has also competed as a contestant on MasterChef: Battle Of The Critics. Speaking to Luxury London Living Fabric about her career with food, Grace said: 'When I was a child in Carlisle in the '70s and '80s, we would put on The Good Food Show and we would see Jilly Goolden swooshing wine around her mouth and saying that it tasted like babbling brooks. 'I think that what makes me different as a restaurant critic is that I certainly didn't eat those types of food as a child. 'I didn't have that background. 'If you look at me and then look at the other restaurant critics, who I love very much, one of us is not like the others! 'I always say that it is an absolute fluke that I am in, doing what I do.' MasterChef airs on BBC and is available to stream on iPlayer. Kim Kardashian got away for some post-Christmas R&R in the sun in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The SKIMS founder, 44, was spotted disembarking from her private jet while checking her phone. She looked comfortable in a cropped, black sleeveless top that exposed her chiseled abs and black sweatpants. The reality TV star carried a fluffy, yellow, cross body tote bag and wore her raven hair up in an artfully messy bun. Kim wore black sunglasses and at one point had her hand on her forehead as if lamenting the loss of her beach vacation in favor of getting back down to business at home. The Kardashians star wasn't wearing the boot on her broken foot that has been her constant companion throughout the holiday season. Kim Kardashian got away for some post-Christmas R&R in the sun. The SKIMS founder, 44, was spotted disembarking from her private jet while checking her phone It's only been 10 days since Khloe Kardashian, 40, gave her big sister a seriously bedazzled scooter so that she could get around in the style she prefers. In one reel uploaded to her Instagram Stories, Kim filmed the new scooter that was decked out with sparkling, silver rhinestone details. A white bow was placed beneath the handles along with a red tag that wished the reality star a Merry Christmas from Khloe, as well as her two children True and Tatum. At the bottom of the video, the mother-of-four tagged her younger sister and added both a laughing face and diamond emoji. In a second reel, the American Horror Story actress showed the back of the scooter and could be heard saying, 'I literally have never been more excited for something. This is so cute.' Last month, Kim first revealed that she had hurt her foot by uploading a snap to her Instagram stories. In the image, she simply showed her foot wrapped up in a boot cast and penned, 'FML broken foot for the holidays.' She later shared another picture of her left foot inside a thick, heel-shaped cast, which prompted fans to have mixed reactions. She looked comfortable in a cropped, black sleeveless top that exposed her chiseled abs and black sweatpants Kim recently shared pics of herself with her kids North, 11, Saint, nine, Chicago, six, and five-year-old Psalm whom she shares with ex Kanye West - at her family's Christmas party Kim wore a classic floor-length red gown with thin spaghetti straps holding it up, evoking a retro Hollywood vibe Kim recently shared pics of herself with her kids North, 11, Saint, nine, Chicago, six, and five-year-old Psalm whom she shares with ex Kanye West - at her family's Christmas party. Kim wore a classic floor-length red gown with thin spaghetti straps holding it up, evoking a retro Hollywood vibe. North looked darling in a white top with corset detailing which she paired with a black tie, black cropped blazer, black mini skirt and over the knee, platform, furry boots that made her almost as tall as her mom. Chicago looked adorable in a red leather minidress paired with flashy red cowboy boots. Kim's sons tried to look tough in the snaps while their mother and sisters goofed off. Both wore black pants and black t-shirts. Saint wore a black jacket and Psalm wore a grey jacket. Kanye has not seen his kids in almost five months and told Zoe Winkler on her What in the Winkler podcast that she is 'basically raising four kids by [herself] here,' to which Zoe called the situation 'insane.' 'I mean, even carpool this morning, I had five kids that I had to take, two came over, and everyone leaves and wants to leave t like, different times and different stuff,' she said in November. Kim's sons tried to look tough in the snaps while their mother and sisters goofed off. Both wore black pants and black t-shirts. Saint wore a black jacket and Psalm wore a grey jacket. Chicago looked adorable in a red leather minidress paired with flashy red cowboy boots 'I feel like I'm at, like, pitstop of a race car driver when it's like "Brush your teeth, brush your teeth, brush your teeth, brush your teeth, Ok, get dressed, get dressed, do your hair."' Weeks prior to her appearance on the podcast, a source told People that Kim was 'pretty much a single mom,' as Kanye is 'sadly not around very much.' In her conversation with Zoe, Kim acknowledged that she had a big support system around her in the form of her family and the money to hire people to help her. 'Sometimes in the middle of the night when [the kids are] all sleeping in your bed, kicking you and crying and waking up, like, it is...' she trailed off Kim continued: 'It's not something I talk about a lot because I feel like there is always a lot of judgement.' Or people will always jump to the, "Oh, but you have the resources to have nannies and to have help,' she said. Body positive influencer Karina Irby has claimed the revealing outfit she wore to Taylor Swift's Sydney concert may have helped introduce people to the megastar. The controversial plus-sized model, 33, was harshly critiqued after wearing a black bodysuit with revealing G-string feature and chunky black heeled boots to the show. Karina has now made a bizarre claim that people talking about her outfit may have led them to discover who Swift is. 'Looking back, it doesn't upset me or phase me too much. I am just glad that I got to go there and experience it,' she told news.com.au. 'If anything it's good I gave people something to talk about. Maybe they hadn't heard about Taylor and now they've found her. Maybe I've done them a favour!' Taylor is the world's richest female musical artist and has a net worth of $1.6 billion, Forbes reported. Body positive influencer Karina Irby has claimed the revealing outfit she wore to Taylor Swift 's Sydney concert may have helped introduce people to the megastar Karina made a bizarre claim that people talking about her outfit may have led them to discover who Swift is Taylor's Eras Tour is the first tour to cross the $1 billion mark, according to Pollstars 2023 year-end charts. Karina posted the video to Instagram after attending Swift's Sydney concert in February. One follower unleashed on the popular influencer at the time, writing: 'If you think your outfit is similar to Taylor's you're delusional.' 'Hers actually have some coverage and are full of boyleg cut not a fkn (sic) high rise full on g banger Brazilian. You have NO class and no respect and it's sickening. 'Wear this s**t on your OnlyFans, not a concert filled with kids.' Karina is best known for her body positivity posts and the empire she has built around selling cheeky bikinis. In 2011, Karina founded her swimwear label Moana Bikini, which has gone on to become a household name for women across Australia. In 2023, she was left humiliated when she was judged over a skin condition while receiving a pedicure. The controversial plus-sized model was harshly critiqued after wearing a black bodysuit with revealing G-string feature and chunky black heeled boots to the concert One follower unleashed on the popular influencer at the time, writing: 'If you think your outfit is similar to Taylor's you're delusional' The bikini designer has been open about the battle she's fought with eczema her entire life, leaving her skin marred by scars and 'patches of white skin'. In an emotional Instagram video, she said she was now 'feeling great' about her body and wanted a pedicure - something she has previously avoided because of her skin. Unfortunately, rather than boosting her confidence, Karina's bravery was met with judgement from her pedicurist. 'I've got lumps, bumps, scars, like I get it, I look different. But this lady looked at me like I was pure disease,' the blonde beauty said in an emotional video. Alison Brie broke her silence on the loss of her friend and filmmaker Jeff Baena, who tragically passed away at the age of 47. Baena died by suicide in the Los Angeles home he shared with his wife, actress Aubrey Plaza, 40. Brie, 42 took to her Instagram on Sunday to share a series of emotional photos on her Instagram, paying tribute to Baena. The first image shows Brie smiling as she watches Baena speak at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival, where he presented Horse Girlthe Netflix film they co-wrote and co-produced, with Baena directing and Brie starring. In another photo, Brie and Baena are seen hugging, while a third shows her leaning against him on a couch, with Brie writing, Rest in peace my friend, as a touching tribute to their close friendship. Plaza was slated to present at the 2025 Golden Globe Awards, but those plans have now been overshadowed by the heartbreaking loss of her husband. Alison Brie broke her silence on the loss of her friend, filmmaker Jeff Baena, who tragically passed away at the age of 47 Brie, 42 took to her Instagram on Sunday to share a series of emotional photos on her Instagram, paying tribute to Baena In 2022, Brie recalled how she and her husband, actor Dave Franco, became neighbors with Baena and Plaza. 'Dave and I lived quite close to Jeff and Aubrey. Jeff and I started hiking together pretty regularly, just as buddies, and during these long hikes, we would talk about different ideas,' Brie said in an interview with Collider. 'Eventually, I felt comfortable enough with him to talk to him about my idea for Horse Girl, which we co-wrote and co-produced together. 'That was such a good experience.' Baenas body was discovered on Friday morning by an assistant at the couple's Los Feliz home, which they had purchased in 2022. The Los Angeles Fire Department confirmed to DailyMail.com that officers arrived at the property at 10:25 a.m. The director of Life After Beth was pronounced dead at the scene. Later, the LA County Medical Examiners Office confirmed that Baenas cause of death was suicide by hanging at the Los Feliz property. Brie shared an emotional post Baena died by suicide in the Los Angeles home he shared with his wife, actress Aubrey Plaza , 40; (aseen in 2020) Plaza was slated to present at the 2025 Golden Globe Awards, but those plans have now been overshadowed by the heartbreaking loss of her husband; (seen with Molly Shannon in 2022) Earlier this week, Plaza was announced as one of the presenters for Sundays ceremony, joining a list of stars including Andrew Garfield, Demi Moore, Gal Gadot, and Nicolas Cage, all set to take the stage at the 82nd annual event. Given the timing of her husband's passing just days before the Globes, it seems highly unlikely that Plaza will attend or present at the awards show. DailyMail.com has reached out to her representatives for comment but has not received a response. Plaza has yet to publicly address the death of her husband. Last year, she received her first Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television for her role as Harper Spiller in The White Lotus. 'Welcoming 2025 with a last-minute dash to Sydney for a night on the water! Bucket-list item ticked off. So spectacular and so much fun. 'Thank you @stulaundy44.' And so, with 27 words and a few champagne and fireworks emojis, bubbly 7News Queensland newsreader Samantha Heathwood sent the eastern suburbs rumour mill into overdrive on New Year's Day. Posing against the stunning backdrop of the harbour, Samantha's Instagram post announcing her eleventh-hour rush to Sydney caused group chats across the Emerald City to explode just in time for the midnight fireworks display. The rumour on everybody's lips: had Sam reunited with her old flame, the playboy publican and former Bachelorette star Stu Laundy? The caption certainly hinted at it, but when I put in a call to Stu he was quick to clarify he and Sam were just good friends. 7News Queensland newsreader Samantha Heathwood sent the eastern suburbs rumour mill into overdrive with this post on New Year's Day in which she tagged publican Stu Laundy Sam's friends joke that Stu is her 'fallback guy' whenever she is having boyfriend trouble 'She's a mate but dating-wise, she's outside the age bracket,' a friend of the hospitality maestro also told me, referencing his penchant for dating younger women. And as for why Sam, who is in her early 40s, would share such an eyebrow-raising post announcing where, and with whom, she had spent her New Year's Eve? Well, we hear the glamorous reporter had just had a minor falling-out with a boyfriend and wanted to send a clear message. Stu wouldn't be drawn on the specifics of Sam's private life, but he did say with a laugh: 'Look, I'm happy to be the knight in shining armour for any girl who wants to escape to Sydney for some consolation.' Friends of the TV host are known to joke that Stu is her 'fallback guy' whenever she is having boyfriend trouble. And it's not the first time the gallant pub baron has swung into action to provide a shoulder for Sam to cry on. The single mum of two boys previously revealed how Laundy stepped in after an ex-boyfriend dumped her on the day her ex-husband was remarrying. 'I really liked this guy and I could see a future with him, but he broke up with me with a text. It was really awful and it was Stu that was like, "Oh crap, we better keep you busy for the weekend or you'll cry,"' she said at the time. After the post, Stu was quick to clarify he and Sam were just good friends Sam was a guest at Stu's 50th birthday party at Arturo's Rooftop in Woolloomooloo in 2022 Birthday boy Stu is pictured at his party with a glamorous guest The then-Nine News regional presenter said the guy in question came back a week later and apologised, and the pair tried to make it work one last time, but to no avail. Sam, a native of Toowoomba, married at 27 before going through a divorce she has described as 'horrific'. After her marriage breakdown, she was linked to The Bachelorette star Sasha Mielczarek following his split from Sam Frost, who'd chosen him as her winning suitor. But sadly their first date in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley hit a stumbling block when Sasha turned out to be a little shorter than Sam had expected. Love Island star Gabby Allen is set to make waves as she is thought 'to be returning for ITV's All Stars series' - a move that could reignite past tensions with Jacqueline Jossa and her husband, Dan Osborne. Gabby, 32, rose to fame in 2017 when she came fourth alongside Blazin' Squad's Marcel Somerville on the reality dating show. However, a year later, she hit headlines after being linked to Dan, 33, following pictures of the pair getting close on a yacht in Marbella. The alleged flirtation caused a rift between Dan and Jacqueline, with the EastEnders actress briefly leaving him after discovering a flirty message he'd sent to Gabby. Although Gabby and Dan have both denied any wrongdoing, the incident saw Gabby labeled 'the other woman' - a tag that Jacqueline, 32, struggled with at the time. The couple eventually reconciled and are now raising their daughters Ella, nine, and Mia, five, alongside Dan's son Teddy, ten, from a previous relationship. Love Island star Gabby Allen is thought 'to be returning for ITV's All Stars series' - a move that could reignite past tensions with Jacqueline Jossa and her husband, Dan Osborne After appearing on Love Island in 2017, Gabby she hit headlines after being linked to Dan, 33, following pictures of the pair getting close on a yacht in Marbella (pictured with his wife, Jacqueline Jossa) Gabby's return to the screen, however, could dredge up old memories. A source revealed to The Sun: 'Gabby being back in the spotlight is the last thing Jac and Dan need and will no doubt bring back memories for Jac. 'Gabby did not reply to the message, but has been seen as 'the other woman.' An ITV spokesperson played it coy, stating: 'Any names suggested are speculation until our official line-up is announced.' The All Stars series, filmed in Cape Town, South Africa, sees previous contestants from across the show's series mixed together in a bid to give them a second chance at love. It comes as Olivia Hawkins is supposedly amongst the star-studded lineup of former Islanders set to fly out to South Africa next week. The fan-favourite Love Island villain was a contestant in the 2023 winter series, where she brought drama to the villa and came to blows with several cast mates. A source told The Sun: 'Olivia is really excited to be returning to South Africa and continuing her Love Island journey. 'She feels like she's got lots to offer still and would love to meet someone. She's adored the limelight since she first came out of the villa, but would like to find romance.' Although Gabby and Dan both denied any wrongdoing, the incident saw Gabby labeled 'the other woman' and her return to the screen could dredge up old memories The alleged flirtation caused a rift between Dan and Jacqueline, with the EastEnders actress briefly leaving him after discovering a flirty message he'd sent to Gabby Gabby now runs a fitness lifestyle and retreat company, often showing off her impressive physical physique She rose to fame in 2017 when she came fourth alongside Blazin' Squad's Marcel Somerville on the reality dating show MailOnline has contacted Olivia's representatives and ITV for comment. Olivia previously said that she had received a torrent of online abuse and even death threats when she was dumped from the villa. She came under fire during her time on the show with viewers claiming 'the witch is finally gone' after she was voted out. Olivia was also branded the 'villa schemer' during drama filled scenes as she clashed with fellow contestants. During her time on the show, Olivia feuded with Zara Lackenby-Brown, and Tanyel Raven. She also fell out with Sanam Harrinanan after she coupled up with Kai Fagan in Casa Amor - despite Olivia also recoupling. The brunette left the show paired up with Maxwell Samuda but they split shortly after filming wrapped. In the second All Stars series, legendary Islanders from former seasons will each attempt to find love once again as they crack on in a bid to couple up and avoid being dumped from the Island. Also reportedly set to join the cast of All Stars in the upcoming season, after dividing opinion their first time on the ITV dating show is Olivia Hawkins She is supposedly amongst the star-studded lineup of former Islanders and is set to fly out to South Africa next week A source said: 'Olivia is really excited to be returning to South Africa and continuing her Love Island journey' Olivia left the show paired up with Maxwell Samuda but they split shortly after filming wrapped Others rumoured to be joining the lineup include Ekin-Su Culculoglu, and Curtis Pritchard. Ella Thomas has also dropped a huge hint that she could be reentering the Love Island villa for the ITV spin off with a series of saucy snaps posted to Instagram on Friday. The former Islander, who appeared in series 10 in 2023, has revealed a major clue that she could be heading to the glitzy housing in South Africa. She teased fans that she may be appearing on the show as she took a trip out to Cape Town at the beginning of January, where the show is filmed. Sharing an album of sunny holiday snaps to her Instagram, Ella told followers: 'out of office'. In one snap Ella relaxed and soaked up the sun on a lounger while wearing a red gingham check co-ord. If Ella does enter the villa, she could come face-to-face with her former show ex. Tyrique Hyde. The couple met during the 2023 series and was heavily tested with some dramatic ups and downs. They blissfully exited the villa together, with their relationship appearing to be stronger than ever. Shortly after leaving the villa, the couple announced they'd split in November 2023, before trying to give it another go. But earlier this year Ella and Tyrique hinted that they are back together. The TV stars first found fame when they coupled up together on the ITV2 reality dating show, but split towards the end of last year. The pair got back together shortly after but were in 'crisis talks' in February after calling it all off again, but both of them now seem to have hinted that a reconciliation has taken place. Ella Thomas has also dropped a huge hint that she could be reentering the Love Island villa for the ITV spin off with a series of saucy snaps posted to Instagram on Friday. The former Islander, who appeared in series 10 in 2023, dropped a major clue that she could be heading to the glitzy housing in South Africa by uplaoding some pictures from Cape Town, where the show is filmed Ella met Tyrique on the 2023 series where the pair were heavily tested with some dramatic ups and downs (pictured on Love Island) Ella jetted off to LA last month and was soon joined by Tyrique. He posted a photo from the Rolling Loud festival in California and captioned: 'Godspeed'. Meanwhile Ella also took to her Instagram and shard a snap of herself wearing a suede miniskirt with 'Godspeed' written across the back. The pair later dined at the same restaurant posting similar pictures to their Instagram stories. A source told MailOnline: 'Ella and Tyrique have decided it's time to go their separate ways. 'They have such love for each other, but they often struggle to get along and as viewers saw in the villa, they're always arguing. Love Island All Stars will begin on January 13 at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX. Cameron Diaz and husband Benji Madden were spotted on a rare joint outing in Montecito, California over the weekend. The 52-year-old veteran actress whose Netflix movie with Jamie Foxx, Back In Action, premieres this month was casually fashionable in a wide-brimmed black hat, black top, and wide-leg light wash jeans. The mother-of-two added a long, gray peacoat, a handy black fanny pack, and understated white sneakers. For his part, 45-year-old Benji complemented his wife in an olive green, button-up shirt with cargo pockets. He added a black hat and his goatee was neatly trimmed while the couple made a shopping trip. The twosome wed in 2015 and are parents to two children daughter Raddix, five, and son Cardinal, whose birth was announced in March 2024. Cameron Diaz and husband Benji Madden were spotted on an outing in Montecito, California over the weekend The 52-year-old veteran actress was casually fashionable wide-brimmed black hat, black top, and wide-leg light wash jeans Taking to Instagram last spring, Benji shared the news that the family-of-three turned to four with the addition of their second child. 'We are blessed and excited to announce the birth of our Son, Cardinal Madden,' the Good Charlotte rockstar wrote in a joint post with the silver screen sensation. And the famously private star added, 'He is awesome and We are all so happy he is here! For the kids safety and privacy we wont be posting any pictures - but hes a really cute.' The note continued, 'We are feeling so blessed and grateful. Sending much love from our fam to yours Best wishes and Good Afternoon!!' Weeks ago Cameron revealed therapy as the spouses' secret tool in marriage. Speaking with her brother-in-law Joel Madden on Artist Friendly podcast, she opened up: 'Its what we depend on, so you have that commitment to work on it.' She also noted that the practice keeps her and Benji from doing 'the same thing over and over.' The low-key pair, who share two children, married in 2015; pictured in 2022 Diaz's upcoming Netflix movie with Jamie Foxx, Back In Action, premieres on the streamer January 17 'You cant be in a marriage and have a family if both people are not 100 percent every day. Nobody can be 99 and the other one be 100,' the San Diego-bred bombshell stated. Back in August 2023, Madden shared a rare gushing post on his wife's August 30 birthday. He wrote at the time, 'Im offline mostly these days, just working, painting, making things and doing family life, but I have grown to like my little tradition of coming back on special occasions to show love to my Queen- so today, its a very Happy Birthday to my beautiful wife, best friend, best partner in everything, ride or die, greatest Mom to our little girl, @Avaline wine boss, family chef, advisor, collaborator and everything else.' The heartfelt message continued, 'You do it all So grateful to have our family and I am one lucky man - I know that seems obvious but it really is nice to say it out loud now and then when youre feeling it.' Cate Blanchett recycled one of her dresses as she attended the Golden Globes on Sunday night. The Australian actress, 55, arrived to star-studded event in the exact same gold gown she wore to the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. The frock featured dramatic pleating on the bodice, beaded shoulders and a dramatic fishtail skirt with an unfinished hem. However, Cate appears to have added extra diamante detailing along the front of the dress. Cate highlighted her age-defying complexion with pink blush and taupe lipstick and left her locks out. She wore minimal accessorises to the awards ceremony, opting for a pair of simple silver earrings. Cate Blanchett recycled one of her dresses as she attended the Golden Globes on Sunday night. Pictured right on Sunday night and left at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival The actress first stepped out in the frock at the premiere of her new film Rumours at the film festival in May last year. The sighting comes after Cate shocked with a dramatic transformation for her next big screen feature. Fans might have to do a double take when they see the Blue Jasmine star in her new film Black Bag. Cate took to Instagram last month to share a promotional photo from her upcoming spy thriller. The actress looked almost unrecognisable in the image, with her trademark platinum bob nowhere to be seen. Instead, she was sporting long brunette locks, parted in the middle and falling down her shoulders. Cate cut quite the chic figure in a retro-style brown leather jacket with gold buttons. She wore this under a plain black blouse and matching pants that the matched with a black and gold belt around her svelte waist. However, the actress appears to have added extra diamante detailing along the front of the dress The sighting comes after Cate shocked with dramatic transformation for her next big screen feature The star added a hint of intrigue and mystery to to the ensemble with a pair of retro tinted sunglasses. Cate's fans were quick to fawn over the post offering such epithets as: 'Fierce as always.' Another jumped in, summing up the sentiment of many with: 'Whoa! What a transformation...always beautiful.' The upcoming American spy thriller for Focus Feature is directed by Steven Soderbergh, known for the likes of Erin Brockovich, Logan Lucky, Magic Mike, and the iconic Ocean's Trilogy. The movie will see Michael Fassbender as the leading star alongside Cate, and they are joined Bridgerton favourite Rege-Jean Page and Skyfall's Naomie Harris. Also starring is Marisa Abela, who recently made headlines for her role in Amy Winehouse biopic Back To Black, and The Crown actor Tom Burke. The film centres around intelligence agent Kathryn Woodhouse (Cate) who is suspected of betraying her nation. Her husband George (Fassbender) a legendary agent himself must decide between loyalty to his wife or to his country. Summerset Group is pleased to report 361 sales for the quarter ending 31 December 2024, comprising 169 new sales and 192 resales. The company ended the financial year with its highest ever full year result of 1238 total settlements (an increase of 12 percent over FY23). Total settlements in Q4 were on par with the same period in 2023 (360 sales) with the company seeing its highest resale quarter ever. Summerset CEO Scott Scoullar said this was an encouraging result to end the year, especially in such a challenging market. This is a positive result for both the quarter and the full year, the residential property market has been slow but despite this weve continued to grow. Weve seen good demand, and weve managed to achieve a strong sales result in a difficult economic environment. Its been very pleasing to see the strength of our resales, reflecting our growing number of fully completed and established villages, and we have a substantial portfolio of both quality new and pre-occupied units around the country that continue to appeal to our target audience. The big milestone in the quarter was the completion and opening of the first stage at St Johns village in October seeing 60 percent of the villages homes delivered as well as the villages main centre (including pool, cafe, bar and resident theatre). Summerset St Johns now has 25 percent of the village units completed to-date under contract across independent living, serviced apartments and care suites. Outside Auckland, the Papamoa, Te Awa and Richmond villages were among the strongest performers in new sales for the quarter. Resales were led by Casebrook and Avonhead, however Summerset still continues to see a good balance of sales throughout the country with 59 percent of sales from outside Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. In Australia, our Cranbourne North village continues to perform well as new stages of homes are released. Mr Scoullar said the company has a strong pipeline of committed sales contracts heading into 2025 across its New Zealand and Australian villages. Summerset will release its full year results on 28 February 2025. ENDS Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: MPG - Metroglass clarifies media statements by Crescent Capital VTL - Takeovers Panel orders Empire to reimburse Vital's expenses March 14th Morning Report SKT - Sky secures iconic sports rights RYM - Ryman completes Retail Entitlement Offer TEM - Transaction in Own Shares FPH launches F&P Nova Nasal mask in NZ and AU Fonterra announces changes to management team March 12th Morning Report WHS FY25 Interim Results teleconference details He vanished into thin air last year while facing serious theft allegations, but now it seems Justin McKeone is popping up everywhere. Less than a week after the troubled finance guy revealed he was going to be a father, he has been spotted hanging out with fellow headline magnet Kristin Fisher. The duo were pictured on the eyebrow queen's private Instagram account on Sunday, with McKeone posing shirtless while Kristin rocked a black bikini. The two were enjoying a sunny afternoon together with another friend in what can only be described as an eyebrow-raising outing (sorry, we couldn't resist). Fisher, who runs a successful Double Bay salon, has previously hosed down rumours she and 'Juzzy' are anything more than just 'good mates', and Daily Mail Australia does not suggest otherwise. 'Can men and women not be friends anymore without this nonsense?!' she moaned in 2023 in response to unfounded speculation the two were dating following McKeone's split from his ex-wife, former Miss Australia Olivia Molly Rogers. Justin McKeone, 37, (left) the ex-husband of model Olivia Molly Rogers, 32, (right) disappeared last November after accusations he stole almost $500k from his employer to fuel a drug habit Despite facing serious allegations he stole $481,490 from his former employer and confessed to a 'serious drug habit', life seems to be business as usual for McKeone. On New Year's Day, he announced on social media that he and his Bachelor star girlfriend Tahnee Leeson were expecting their first child together. Fatherhood is certainly a bold move from a man whose 2025 calendar also includes an impending civil case brought against him by his former employer. His legal issues may well have been a topic of conversation on Sunday, as Fisher had her own run-in with the law in 2021 when she was busted for cocaine possession by police, though her conviction was later overturned. When the beautician appeared before Waverley Local Court in October that year to have her conviction annulled, Magistrate Ross Hudson took the chance to lay into her. He did not hold back when he reminded Fisher that being a rich eastern suburbs socialite did not put her above the law. She was reportedly seen nodding in agreement when Magistrate Hudson asked if she was aware a good reputation could 'be destroyed in seconds' through bad choices. After she was thoroughly reprimanded for being caught with two bags of cocaine at her feet while in the passenger seat of a drug dealer's car, Fisher got her wish. Now McKeone has resurfaced alongside his friend, Double Bay eyebrow queen Kristin Fisher (right), who has quite a controversial past The mother-of-two was given a six-month conditional release order and told she would avoid a conviction if she stayed away from drugs for six months. Three years on and a remorseful Fisher has avoided any further trouble with the law, and perhaps she could offer McKeone some words of advice as he prepares to navigate the legal system. When asked if she wished to comment on her friendship with McKeone, who is expected to front court this year, Fisher sniped: Do not include me in any of your articles. Leave me out of your garbage. McKeone, who was a fixture of the social pages during his brief marriage to Rogers, hit the headlines in November when he seemingly vanished ahead of his scheduled appearance at the Supreme Court of Victoria. Court documents later confirmed he had relocated to Scarborough, north-east of Perth. Days after this revelation, he announced his girlfriend's pregnancy news. Fisher previously shut down rumours she and 'Juzzy' are anything more than just 'good mates' McKeone and Leeson began an on-again-off-again relationship after the breakdown of his marriage to Rogers. Back in July, Leeson denied she was back together with McKeone, telling the press they were 'just friends', although her Instagram profile seemed to tell a different story. The pair's pregnancy comes amid claims McKeone stole hundreds of thousands of dollars from his employer while working as a financial manager at a Melbourne firm. According to court documents, he has been accused of stealing $481,490.33 during his five-month tenure as Head of Finance at Rocket Brands (Cozmic Sales Pty Ltd). McKeone was due to appear in court on December 5 to respond to a civil application to place a freezing order on his assets, but failed to appear. The court heard McKeone had not made contact with his lawyers since November 11 when he was contacted by lawyers acting for his former employer. As details of the court case unfolded, McKeone packed his bags and travelled across the country to his home state of Western Australia. Fisher had her drug conviction annulled at Waverley Local Court in October 2021 On New Year's Day, McKeone announced he and his girlfriend Tahnee Leeson (left) were expecting their first child together. Fatherhood is a bold move from a man whose 2025 calendar also includes an impending civil case brought against him by his former employer He has engaged Melbourne powerhouse legal firm Galbally & O'Bryan to represent him. The court had already ordered a freeze on McKeone's assets totalling the amount Rocket Brands claimed he stole between May 23 and October 6. That order was due to expire weeks ago, but was extended in McKeone's absence. The court heard McKeone, who once rubbed shoulders with Melbourne's high society, had limited access to $800 a week for living costs and $10,000 to pay any legal expenses. McKeone joined Rocket Brands in March last year on a $200,000 annual salary. But just weeks into his probationary period, staff reportedly raised concerns about his erratic behaviour. McKeone (right) and Leeson (left) have been on-and-off since his split from Olivia Rogers Evidence given in court alleged Rocket Brands director Matthew Holmes was told by other employees that McKeone was 'sleeping in the work toilets for up to four hours a day', taking excessively long lunch breaks, and frequently leaving the office without completing his duties. Further evidence provided in court alleged McKeone admitted to the theft when confronted by Holmes in mid-October, as seen in court documents obtained by Daily Mail Australia. During the meeting, evidence given in court said McKeone allegedly confessed he embezzled the money to fund 'a very serious drug habit' and told Holmes he would 'do his best' to repay the business. During last month's hearing, barrister Kieren Hickie, for Rocket Brands, called on the court to extend the freezing order to any international assets McKeone might have hidden abroad. The court heard McKeone had failed to comply with a 'disclosure notification' that was due in on November 24 despite assurances he would engage a lawyer to act on his behalf. Rocket Brands asked Justice Peter Gray to make an interlocutory judgment - a non-final judgment that resolves an element of a claim or another issue without deciding the full case - awarding it restitution for the full amount and its legal costs. 'My client does seek to proceed by seeking interlocutory judgment be entered against the defendant with damages to be assessed,' Mr Hickie said. The company also asked that its legal costs be borne by McKeone - a request that was later granted. McKeone and Rogers got engaged in 2019 and tied the knot in February 2022. They split in October that same year 'We are here today, plainly the defendant is in default of filing any appearance. It would be the just, timely and cost efficient resolution of this dispute that interlocutory judgment be entered,' Mr Hickie said. Court documents allege McKeone disguised 114 unauthorised transactions as legitimate supplier payments, funnelling company money into his personal bank account to allegedly fund a drug addiction. According to court filings, McKeone allegedly used his exclusive access to Rocket's financial systems to approve and process the payments. The affidavit alleges McKeone manipulated invoices to reflect payments to suppliers like 'Storage King' and 'Net Focus IT' while redirecting funds into his own Westpac account. Screenshots submitted to the court allegedly show McKeone editing and approving these allegedly fraudulent transactions using the Xero software program. Holmes told the court he had not authorised any of those payments. The alleged embezzlement was reportedly hidden in Rocket's financial statements under the guise of 'historical adjustments' totalling $310,878, further complicating the company's efforts to identify the missing funds. Holmes reported the alleged theft to Victoria Police on October 14. Detectives from the Yarra Crime Investigation Unit interviewed McKeone on November 6, but no criminal charges have yet been laid as the investigation continues. In the civil law case, Rocket Brands is seeking full restitution and has accused McKeone of breaching his duties as a senior manager. The company has described his alleged actions in court documents as calculated and damaging, claiming the alleged theft has caused significant financial losses. The court filing states McKeone's actions were allegedly a 'gross breach of trust' and that the company is 'not in a position to accept [his] representation' that he has no money left in his accounts. Justice Gray extended the freezing order to April next year, with the matter now expected to go to trial. Bindi Irwin is expected to soon head to the US on a book tour with her husband Chandler Powell and their three-year-old daughter Grace Warrior. And sources say the 26-year-old celebrity conservationist will be using the jaunt to lift her profile Stateside. There's much speculation that fans will likely see Bindi on breakfast TV and the late-night talk show circuit. Bindi was last in the US in 2023, where she underwent surgery to treat her endometriosis. Bindi and her family are expected to make a priority of visiting Chandler's parents, Chris and Shannon Powell, who are based in Florida. An insider discussed the tour - which Bindi is yet to confirm officially - in the latest issue of Woman's Day. Bindi Irwin is set to head to the US on a book tour with her husband Chandler Powell, and their three-year-old daughter Grace Warrior. (Pictured) And sources say that the 26-year-old celebrity conservationist will be using the jaunt to lift her profile Stateside and promote the work of her late father 'Crocodile Hunter' Steve Irwin. Pictured: Robert Irwin The last time they saw Bindi, she wasnt well, so shes looking forward to making happy new memories now shes much stronger,' the source said. They continued: Its an incredibly happy time for all the family. But for Bindi, its another chance at reminding the world that shes still around and better than ever before.' Bindi will be using the US trip to launch her new book You Are a Wildlife Warrior, which will be published on February 4, and promote the legacy of her late father, Steve Irwin. The trip comes after Bindi's health struggles have slowed her workload. She has not appeared on a reality show since winning the US version of Dancing with the Stars in 2019. She has so many American fans who have followed her long before she put on her dancing shoes for DWTS - this is not just about her and selling a book,' the source continued. Its about her dad and the Irwin legacy. Opening up new opportunities in America with Steves only grandchild by her side is something she wanted to do ever since she became a mum. While her brother Robert Irwin, 21, maintains a high profile and was recently nominated for his first Logie award, Bindi has led a low-key public life for the last few years. According to this week's Woman's Day, there is much speculation that fans will likely see Bindi on breakfast TV and the late-night talk show circuit. Bindi was last in the US in 2023, where she underwent surgery to treat her endometriosis. Pictured: Bindi and chandler with their three-year-old daughter Grave Warrior Bindi and her family are expected to make a priority of visiting Chandler's parents, Chris and Shannon Powell, who are based in Florida. Pictured: Bindi with her brother Robert Irwin and their mother Terri Irwin Bindi often posts video to social media while spending time at Australia Zoo with Chandler Powell, their daughter and her mother Terri. She was last in the US to receive surgery at the Seckin Endometriosis Center in New York City after struggling with endometriosis for over a decade. The procedure removed a total of thirty-seven lesions and a 'chocolate cyst' - a term for a cyst filled with menstrual blood. It comes after tensions emerged last month between Bindi Irwin and her younger brother Robert as he pursues his solo career. As 21-year-old Robert prepares to host another season of I'm A Celebrity, a rift is reportedly brewing between the two siblings. According to New Idea, Bindi, wants her brother to be spend more time focusing on their family business. 'Bindi wants Robert to be making decisions about his career that will pay off in a way of bringing attention and people to Australia Zoo,' a source told the magazine. 'Thats always her focus conservation first, celebrity status second. And she thinks it should be his too.' Along with their mother Terri and Bindi's husband Chandler, the siblings operate wildlife conservation park Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast. The past year has seen a surge in popularity for Robert, which saw him nominated for the coveted Gold Logie award. Robert, who boasts an impressive 6million followers on Instagram, also appears to be trying build his TV profile. Last month, the Wildlife Warrior teased he was forging a deeper relationship with Channel 10 after the success of I'm A Celebrity. But his soaring success has created a 'professional divide' between the Irwin siblings, the insider added. 'Bindi has always been focused on conservation; she has really resisted doing any projects that didnt have a huge focus on her lifes work,'the source claimed. 'But it seems Robert is happy to build his profile, knowing that his popularity and status will eventually bring a focus to his work.' Since Steve Irwin's tragic death in 2006, his family have carried on his legacy and have won over legions of fans with their upbeat videos on social media. Australia Zoo was actually founded by Steve's dad Bob Snr in 1970. He left the business for good in 2008 - two years after the death of his famous son. Dakota Fanning reunited with her younger sister Elle Fanning at the 82nd Golden Globe Awards, which were held at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills on Sunday. The former child stars - aged 30 and 26 - struck a pose wearing gorgeous red and gold gowns at the annual ceremony where the Hollywood Foreign Press Association honors the best of film and TV. The Georgia-born blondes co-founded their production company Lewellen Pictures in 2021, and they've 'been working on it for the last few years.' 'Of course, we started as actors, and I think we both have this desire to develop our own projects and be really a part of things from the ground up,' Dakota (born Hannah) explained on The Tonight Show last March. 'And, um, we're super close, so I, uh, can't - I would never do it with anyone else. It has to be her.' The Fanning sisters were joined at the glamorous CBS/Paramount+ telecast by their beloved grandmother, Mary Jane Odum. Dakota Fanning (L) reunited with her younger sister Elle Fanning (R) at the 82nd Golden Globe Awards, which were held at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills on Sunday Dakota looked leggy in a custom Dolce&Gabbana red strapless gown, featuring a matching scarf and ankle-strap heels selected by stylist Samantha McMillen. The Perfect Couple star wore her signature flaxen locks down and she matched her lipstick to her striking dress. Fanning was nominated for best supporting performance in a series for her role as wealthy socialite Marge Sherwood in Netflix show Ripley. 'What an absolute thrill and honor it is to be nominated for a Golden Globe alongside such incredible company,' The Watchers actress gushed on Instagram December 9. 'The opportunity to be in Ripley, and to play Marge, has been one of the greatest gifts of my life. I am so happy to share this with Steve, every single member of the team behind the scenes, and the brilliant Andrew Scott. My Marge doesn't exist without his Tom. Thank you so very much!' But Dakota wound up losing the trophy to Baby Reindeer actress Jessica Gunning. Both Fannings were thrilled to pose with the legendary Glenn Close, who previously co-starred with Dakota in Rodrigo Garcia's 2005 multi-story drama Nine Lives. At 5ft9in, Elle (born Mary) towered over the 77-year-old Deliverance scene stealer, whom she appeared to gush over on the red carpet. The Emmy-nominated actress - who also relies on stylist Samantha McMillen - was her usual effervescent self posing in a custom recreation of a Pierre Balmain haute couture FW/53 ball gown. The former child stars - aged 30 and 26 - struck a pose wearing gorgeous red and gold gowns at the annual ceremony where the Hollywood Foreign Press Association honors the best of film and TV The Georgia-born blondes co-founded their production company Lewellen Pictures in 2021, and they've 'been working on it for the last few years' Dakota (born Hannah) explained on The Tonight Show last March: 'Of course, we started as actors, and I think we both have this desire to develop our own projects and be really a part of things from the ground up' The Fanning sisters were joined at the glamorous CBS/Paramount+ telecast by their beloved grandmother, Mary Jane Odum (M) Dakota looked leggy in a red custom Dolce&Gabbana strapless gown, featuring a matching scarf and ankle-strap heels selected by stylist Samantha McMillen The Perfect Couple star wore her signature flaxen locks down and she matched her lipstick to her striking dress Fanning was nominated for best supporting performance in a series for her role as wealthy socialite Marge Sherwood in Netflix show Ripley The Watchers actress gushed on Instagram December 9: 'What an absolute thrill and honor it is to be nominated for a Golden Globe alongside such incredible company. The opportunity to be in Ripley, and to play Marge, has been one of the greatest gifts of my life' She added: 'To the brilliant Andrew Scott (L), my Marge doesn't exist without his Tom. Thank you so very much!' But Dakota wound up losing the trophy to Baby Reindeer actress Jessica Gunning Both Fannings were thrilled to pose with the legendary Glenn Close, who previously co-starred with Dakota in Rodrigo Garcia's 2005 multi-story drama Nine Lives At 5ft9in, Elle (born Mary) towered over the 77-year-old Deliverance scene stealer, whom she appeared to gush over on the red carpet The Emmy-nominated actress - who also relies on stylist Samantha McMillen - was her usual effervescent self posing in a custom recreation of a Pierre Balmain haute couture FW/53 ball gown Hairstylist Jenda Alcorn styled Fanning's platinum blonde locks in a swooping updo as she struck a pose in the champagne-hued dress featuring a beaded animal-print molded bustier Make-up artist Erin Ayanian Monroe applied the green-eyed beauty's cat eyeliner, bronzed cheekbones, and mauve pout Elle was there to support James Mangold's Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown - which scored nods for best actor (Timothee Chalamet), best supporting actor (Edward Norton), and best motion picture drama And with the pressure off herself, Fanning was able to mingle with her castmate Monica Barbaro (L) and Timothee's reality star girlfriend, Kylie Jenner (R) The ladies gave the lensman a view from the back at their VIP table Hairstylist Jenda Alcorn styled Fanning's platinum blonde locks in a swooping updo as she struck a pose in the champagne-hued dress featuring a beaded animal-print molded bustier. Make-up artist Erin Ayanian Monroe applied the green-eyed beauty's cat eyeliner, bronzed cheekbones, and mauve pout. Elle was there to support James Mangold's Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown - which scored nods for best actor (Timothee Chalamet), best supporting actor (Edward Norton), and best motion picture drama. And with the pressure off herself, Fanning was able to mingle with her castmate Monica Barbaro and Timothee's reality star girlfriend, Kylie Jenner. The Great producer-star's upcoming projects include Mirrah Foulkes' DID drama I Am Sybil, Karim Ainouz's film Rosebushpruning, Dan Trachtenberg's thriller Predator: Badlands, and Apple TV+ series Margo's Got Money Troubles. Dakota's upcoming projects include Bryan Bertino's 2025 horror film Vicious for Paramount Pictures and Megan Gallagher's suburban thriller series All Her Fault for Peacock. She is known for her great sense of style. But Naomi Watts suffered a rare fashion fail as she attended the 2025 Golden Globes in Los Angeles on Sunday evening with her husband Billy Crudup. The Mulholland Drive star wore a strapless black dress which featured a bizarre pink hemline that resembled a duvet cover. The 56-year-old Aussie actress let the unique frock take centre stage by wearing minimal accessories - a pair of diamond drop earrings and her engagement and wedding rings. Naomi had her blonde bob neatly straightened and she added another pop of colour with a bright red lip. Meanwhile, her husband Billy sported a bushy beard and looked dapper in a black tuxedo with a crisp white shirt and a black tie. Naomi Watts suffered a rare fashion fail as she attended the 2025 Golden Globes in Los Angeles on Sunday evening with her husband Billy Crudup The Mulholland Drive star wore a strapless black dress which featured a bizarre pink hemline which resembled a duvet cover Naomi has garnered a Best Actress nomination for her performance in Feud: Capote vs. The Swans. The beauty - who portrayed Babe Paley in the FX miniseries - also received an Emmy and Critics' Choice Television Award nomination for her role. The couple's appearance at the awards show comes after they rang in 2025 with a 'perfect' family vacation to Barbados in the Caribbean. Naomi shared an assortment of photos to her Instagram page from the memorable trip. The pair were also joined by her two children - Sasha, 17, and Kai, 16 - whom she shares with ex Liev Schreiber. In one image, Naomi was pictured cosying up with The Morning Show actor as they sat outside at a restaurant. She held a small smile on her face as she rested her head on his shoulder and Billy sweetly pulled her in closer. She also snapped a selfie while soaking up the warm sunshine with Billy and her teenage son Sasha. Back in 2023, Naomi and Billy tied the knot at a New York City courthouse following six years of dating The 56-year-old Aussie actress let the unique frock take centre stage by wearing minimal accessories - a pair of diamond drop earrings and her engagement and wedding rings Naomi had her blonde bob neatly straightened and she added another pop of colour with her bright red lip Naomi has garnered a Best Actress nomination for her performance in Feud: Capote vs. The Swans During the trip, Naomi and her family had the chance to indulge in a variety of tasty meals. In one photo, the actress took another selfie while some of the family members explored the tropical destination. The star lounged on the sandy shore while her son had a blast surfing and he also caught a crab which he held towards the camera. Naomi discovered a mini, heart-shaped rock and took a snap as she held it in her hand. At one point during the getaway, the entire group was seen posing for a memorable group photo while standing on the sandy shore next to the ocean. She also included an image of the beach to show the surrounding palm trees and colorful sky at sunset. At the end of the Instagram carousel, Naomi shared a short video as fireworks filled the night sky on the island. As she zoomed out, other onlookers could be seen gazing up at the display while also filming the moment. The couple's appearance at the awards show comes after they rang in 2025 with a 'perfect' family vacation to Barbados in the Caribbean They was joined by loved ones, including husband Billy Crudup , and her two children Sasha, 17, and Kai, 16 - whom she shares with ex Liev Schreiber The King King actress shared an assortment of snaps to her Instagram page on Thursday from the memorable trip Back in 2023, Naomi and Billy tied the knot at a New York City courthouse following six years of dating. During an interview on The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon, she explained that the plan hadn't always been to say 'I do' at the courthouse. 'It just happened that way,' The Impossible star stated. 'We knew we wanted to do it, it was something we were very keen on doing and quickly.' She further reflected, 'It was really lovely. It was a classic New York day. You ran into all kinds of people, some were dressed to the nines, some were walking quickly in and out. It was very special and very memorable.' Last year in June 2024, the lovebirds held a second ceremony in Mexico with their loved ones also in attendance. Watts was in a previous relationship with actor Liev from 2005 until their split in 2016 after 11 years together. Despite the separation, both she and Liev still remain in each other's lives as they co-parent their two children. In 2019, Naomi told Net-a-Porter, 'We're doing things very differently. I'm pretty proud of us, corny as that may sound.' 'We've made it our absolute priority to be good and kind to each other and we're absolutely committed to that.' Billy is also father to son William, 20, whom he shares with ex Mary-Louise Parker. The pair previously dated from 1996 through 2003. In September of last year, Naomi gave rare insight to her relationship with Billy during an interview with E! News at the 2024 Emmy Awards. 'It's much easier to do this with someone,' she expressed, referencing to her husband walking the red carpet with her. 'Doing any of these award shows or public appearances - it helps to just having someone on your team and holding the hand and a little bit of eye contact to center yourself. Because even with practice over the years, it's not that natural.' With both she and Billy working in the industry, she revealed to the outlet, 'We talk about work quite a bit.' 'We'll run through ideas we have about scenes or characters. And I have to say there are no competitive vibes at all.' Nicole Kidman suffered an awkward red carpet interview at the 2025 Golden Globes on Sunday night. The Australian actress, 57, appeared less than impressed when she was asked about her daughter Sunday Rose by Variety reporter Marc Malkin. During the chat, Marc asked Nicole: 'You know who I got to meet last night... Sunday Rose.' 'My beautiful precious baby,' the actress said, before adding: 'There is another one too.' 'Are they going to go into the business?' he then asked. 'Who knows?' Nicole quickly replied, shutting down the line of questioning. Nicole Kidman (pictured) suffered an awkward red carpet interview at the 2025 Golden Globes on Sunday night. Pictured Nicole and daughter Sunday 'She is modelling now and she is very composed and a very sweet girl,' Nicole added before ending the interview. Sunday, 16, is the daughter of Nicole and her husband Keith Urban, who wed in 2006. The couple also share Faith, 13. Sunday launched her modelling career, opening the Miu Miu Paris Womenswear Spring-Summer 2025 show during Paris Fashion Week in October 2024. But her runway debut was savaged by harsh social media users who critiqued her walk afterwards. Nicole later weighed in on her daughter's controversial appearance, and she admitted that she had advised against it at first. During a recent chat with Hollywood Reporter, the actress was asked 'what it was like as a mum' to see Sunday walk in her first fashion show. 'But Miuccia just loved her and was like, No, I want her. And Miuccia is so powerful as a woman. So that was a good match.' Nicole added that she had known Miuccia since she was 23 years old, so she trusted her expertise. During the chat, Marc asked Nicole: 'You know who I got to meet last night... Sunday Rose.' 'My beautiful precious baby,' the actress said, before adding: 'There is another one too' Sunday strutted on the catwalk in a white sleeveless dress with a ribbon embellishment from the Italian haute couture label, which she paired with grey leg-warmers and black peep-toe heels. People were quick to slam her online, with one person suggesting she take runway lessons, and another complaining that too many nepo babies think they can model. Nicole is also a doting mother to Isabella, 31, and Connor, 29, with ex-husband Tom Cruise. Nicole showed off her very slender frame in a very revealing slinky one-shouldered glittering gown by Balenciaga at the Golden Globes. The backless dress also revealed a hint of sideboob and her extremely toned back as the Aussie star posed on the red carpet at the Beverly Hilton. She completed her retro look with a Sixties-style bouffant hairstyle, wearing her strawberry locks in a high ponytail. She accessorised with stunning diamond and sapphire drop earrings and boosted her already statuesque height with heels. Nicole, who has been nominated for Best Performance by an Actress for Babygirl, once again revealed her taut and line-free visage which was accentuated by a full face of makeup. Hollywood stars Nicole Kidman and Salma Hayek reunited at the 2025 Golden Globes on Sunday night after they appeared to 'clash' during Paris Fashion Week last year. Back in October, the Australian star looked like she was scolding Salma at the Balenciaga show before refusing to pose for a photo with her, sparking furious speculation that the pair were no longer friends. But the incident seems to be well behind them now, as the pair were spotted holding hands during a friendly chat at the 82nd Golden Globe Awards in Los Angeles on Monday. Nicole, 57, happily posed for a photo with the Mexican star as they walked the red carpet at the awards ceremony. The pair were also seen clinging to each other's hands as they exchanged amicable words and a warm smile before turning to the cameras for a quick picture. Nicole was every inch the silver screen siren as she showed off her slender frame in a very revealing slinky one-shouldered glittering gown by Balenciaga. Hollywood stars Nicole Kidman and Salma Hayek reunited at the 2025 Golden Globes on Sunday night after they appeared to 'clash' during Paris Fashion Week last year Back in October, the Australian star looked like she was scolding Salma at the Balenciaga show before refusing to pose for a photo with her, sparking furious speculation that the pair were no longer friends. The backless dress also revealed a hint of side-boob and her extremely toned back as the Aussie star posed on the red carpet at the Beverly Hilton. She completed her retro look with a Sixties-style bouffant hairstyle, wearing her strawberry locks in a high ponytail. She accessorised with stunning diamond and sapphire drop earrings and boosted her already statuesque height with heels. Nicole, who has been nominated for Best Performance by an Actress for Babygirl, accentuated her taut and line-free visage with a full face of makeup. Meanwhile, Salma sparkled in a crimson gown by Gucci which featured a sequined bustier. The body-con column silhouette of the dress highlighted the Grown Ups star's curvaceous figure as she posed up a storm on the red carpet. She added a pop of colour to the sultry look by slipping on a chunky teal necklace which stood out against the earthy tones of her frock. The buxom beauty then curled her dark tresses and pinned it into an artfully tousled half up-do before polishing off her ensemble with a dark smoky eye and nude lip. Nicole appeared to swat Salma's hand away from her as the Mexican actress tried to get her to pose for a photo at fashion week The friends were posing with Katy Perry when the incident happened But the incident seems to be well behind them now, as the pair were spotted holding hands during a friendly chat at the 82nd Golden Globe Awards in Los Angeles on Monday Salma had quite the role to play at the 2025 Golden Globes as she was part of the star-studded line-up of presenters at this year's ceremony. She presented alongside Gal Gadot, Melissa McCarthy, Kate Hudson, Mindy Kaling, Emma Stone, Viola Davis and Anya Taylor-Joy, among others. Nicole and Salma's appearance on the red carpet together comes after they appeared to be embroiled in a feud at Paris Fashion Week in October. But despite the furore over Nicole's alleged cold shoulder, the Aussie star was reportedly enraged by the braying photographers. The actresses were said to be swapping advice after posing for pictures alongside Katy Perry at the Balenciaga show when Nicole tired of the calls for more photos and walked away. There is no issue, an insider told DailyMail.com exclusively. This is a snippet of a video that doesnt represent reality. There is a photo of them posing together. Nothing happened. They were talking about something concerning advice and having a pow-wowwhile being bombarded and yelled at and surrounded from all angles by cameras. They just wanted to go. They are friends and are fine despite what anyone thinks. Nicole is not rude. At all. She may be awkward at times, but she is not rude.' Nicole and Salma, whose fashion mogul husband Francois-Henri Pinault owns Balenciaga, appeared to clash when they were asked to pose together with Katy, 39. Perfect Couple actress Nicole, wearing oversized black sunglasses, appeared to swat Salmas hand as she motioned her for a picture before walking away. Footage of the incident, which took place two weeks ago, started circulating on Sunday night, with fans inundating Nicoles Instagram account with taunts and questions over her alleged behaviour. This video is no longer available This video is no longer available Zoe Saldana cried tears of joy upon winning her first Golden Globe Award for best supporting actress in a motion picture (musical/comedy) during the 82nd ceremony, which was held at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills on Sunday. The 46-year-old action star - best known for blockbuster franchises Avatar, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Star Trek - was finally recognized for her serious dramatic work as the attorney of a transgender Mexican cartel leader in Emilia Perez. 'I have dyslexia and I tend to forget when I'm really anxious. I'm filled with adrenaline, but my heart is full of gratitude,' Zoe (born Zoe Yadira Saldana Nazario) began her emotional two-minute speech. 'Thank you so much to the Golden Globes for celebrating our film and honoring the women of Emilia Perez. Thank you so much!' Saldana managed to win over her own castmate Selena Gomez as well as Wicked's Ariana Grande, The Brutalist's Felicity Jones, The Substance star Margaret Qualley, and Conclave's Isabella Rossellini whom she called 'magic.' 'Selena, I am sharing this with you,' the half-Dominican, half-Puerto Rican triple threat gushed onstage. Zoe Saldana cried tears of joy upon winning her first Golden Globe Award for best supporting actress in a motion picture (musical/comedy) during the 82nd ceremony, which was held at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills on Sunday The 46-year-old action star - best known for blockbuster franchises Avatar, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Star Trek - was finally recognized for her serious dramatic work as a transgender Mexican cartel leader's attorney Rita Moro Castro in Emilia Perez 'I know that it is a competition but all that I have witnessed is just us showing up for each other and celebrating each other, it's just so beautiful.' Zoe also singled out her castmate Karla Sofia Gascon, who had just lost the best actress trophy to The Substance star Demi Moore: 'No one other than you could have played Emilia Perez. No one. Reina (queen)!' After thanking the cast and crew, Saldana rushed to thank her close ones as she was being played off: 'My mom [Asalia] is here! My sisters, my husband, and my sons - I love you. I love you. You guys are everything, thank you!' And while the Lioness producer-star's husband of 11 years - The Absence of Eden filmmaker Marco Perego Saldana - wasn't there, he proudly reposted her speech via Instastory. Zoe's biggest number in Netflix's Spanish-language musical - El Mal - wound up winning best original song at the Globes. Saldana headed up to the stage for a second time to support composers Camille and Clement Ducol as they accepted the trophy, telling her: 'Zoe, you just shaked the house and shaked our souls.' The former ballerina got to go onstage for a third time with the rest of the cast and crew when Emilia Perez was awarded best motion picture (musical/comedy). 'The light always wins over darkness,' Karla said of transgender rights. 'I have a lot of things to say to you because you can maybe put us in jail, you can beat us up, but you never can take away our soul, our resistance, or our identity. And I want to say to you, raise your voice and say, "I am who I am, not who you want."' Zoe (born Zoe Yadira Saldana Nazario) began her emotional two-minute speech: 'I have dyslexia and I tend to forget when I'm really anxious. I'm filled with adrenaline, but my heart is full of gratitude' She continued: 'Thank you so much to the Golden Globes for celebrating our film and honoring the women of Emilia Perez. Thank you so much!' Saldana managed to win over her own castmate Selena Gomez (R) as well as Ariana Grande, Felicity Jones, Margaret Qualley, and Isabella Rossellini whom she called 'magic' The half-Dominican, half-Puerto Rican triple threat gushed onstage: 'Selena, I am sharing this with you...I know that it is a competition but all that I have witnessed is just us showing up for each other and celebrating each other, it's just so beautiful' Zoe also singled out her castmate Karla Sofia Gascon (L), who had just lost the best actress trophy to The Substance star Demi Moore: 'No one other than you could have played Emilia Perez. No one. Reina (queen)!' After thanking the cast and crew, Saldana rushed to thank her close ones as she was being played off: 'My mom [Asalia] is here! My sisters, my husband, and my sons - I love you. I love you. You guys are everything, thank you!' And while the Lioness producer-star's husband of 11 years - The Absence of Eden filmmaker Marco Perego Saldana - wasn't there, he proudly reposted her speech via Instastory Zoe's biggest number in Netflix's Spanish-language musical - El Mal - wound up winning best original song at the Globes Saldana headed up to the stage for a second time to support composers Camille (2-L) and Clement Ducol (3-L) as they accepted the trophy, telling her: 'Zoe, you just shaked the house and shaked our souls' The former ballerina got to go onstage for a third time with the rest of the cast and crew when Emilia Perez was awarded best motion picture (musical/comedy) Karla said of transgender rights: 'The light always wins over darkness. I have a lot of things to say to you because you can maybe put us in jail, you can beat us up, but you never can take away our soul, our resistance, or our identity. And I want to say to you, raise your voice and say, "I am who I am, not who you want"' French filmmaker Jacques Audiard's (3-R) critically-acclaimed queer movie also took home the trophy for best non-English language motion picture - but it lost the prizes for director, screenplay, and score For the red carpet, Zoe took the plunge in a black-sequin Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello dress, matching Saint Laurent heels, and Cartier jewelry selected by stylist Petra Flannery Hairstylist Mara Roszak gave Saldana a 'modern knotted updo' and make-up artist Vera Steimberg brought out her natural beauty for the HD cameras The Meet Me in Rome producer will next voice Aunt Olga in Pixar's animated alien abduction comedy Elio, which hits US/UK theaters on June 13 Zoe will also reprise her motion-capture role as Neytiri in James Cameron's $250M-budget three-quel Avatar: Fire and Ash, which hits US/UK theaters December 19 French filmmaker Jacques Audiard's critically-acclaimed queer movie also took home the trophy for best non-English language motion picture - but it lost the prizes for director, screenplay, and score. For the red carpet, Zoe took the plunge in a black-sequin Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello dress, matching Saint Laurent heels, and Cartier jewelry selected by stylist Petra Flannery. Hairstylist Mara Roszak gave Saldana a 'modern knotted updo' and make-up artist Vera Steimberg brought out her natural beauty for the HD cameras. The Meet Me in Rome producer will next voice Aunt Olga in Pixar's animated alien abduction comedy Elio - hitting US/UK theaters on June 13 - alongside Brad Garrett, Jameela Jamil, and Shirley Henderson. Zoe will also reprise her motion-capture role as Neytiri in James Cameron's $250M-budget three-quel Avatar: Fire and Ash - hitting US/UK theaters December 19 - alongside Sam Worthington, Sigourney Weaver, and Stephen Lang. Melissa McCarthy was the moment on the red carpet at the 2025 Golden Globes. The stunning star, 54, turned heads in a custom hot pink Christian Siriano flared jumpsuit, complete with a dramatic ruffled cape that screamed Hollywood glam with a side of fun. Her chestnut locks were pulled into a chic bun, and she radiated star power from head to toe. Accompanying her was her dashing husband and writing partner Ben Falcone, whom shes been married to since 2005. Ben even joked about the challenges of Melissa's extravagant outfit, telling ET on the red carpet, 'Getting her in the car took about 15 minutes.' McCarthy received her first Golden Globe nomination in 2012 for Bridesmaids, where she was nominated for Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture. Melissa McCarthy was the moment on the red carpet at the 2025 Golden Globes , and it was impossible to look away The stunning star, 54, turned heads in a custom hot pink Christian Siriano flared jumpsuit, complete with a dramatic ruffled cape that screamed Hollywood glam with a side of fun She went on to secure an Oscar nomination in 2012 for her role in Bridesmaids, earning a nod for Best Supporting Actress. McCarthy received another Golden Globe nomination in 2019 for her transformative performance in Can You Ever Forgive Me?, this time in the Best Actress in a Motion Picture Comedy or Musical category. Meanwhile, Zoe Saldana led Emilia Perez to top honors while Demi Moore became a first time winner at 62 at the star-studded event on Sunday night where Shogun and The Brutalist were also big winners. Zoe, 46, earned Best Supporting Actress - Musical or Comedy early in the night before the Netflix film earned top prize Best Film - Musical or Comedy on a night which featured a star-studded red carpet which took place at The Beverly Hilton hotel in Los Angeles on January 5. Demi sent a powerful message during her emotional acceptance speech as she earned Best Actress in Musical or Comedy for The Substance. When it came to the film drama categories it was The Brutalist which earned top prize Best Film - Drama and a Best Actor - Drama gong for Adrien Brody. When it came to television, it was Shogun which swept the drama categories including Best TV Series and individual honors for Anna Sawai, Hiroyuki Sanada, and Tadanobu Asano. However, the most shocking moment certainly came when Brazilian actress Fernanda Torres triumphed over A-listers Angelina Jolie, Nicole Kidman, and Pamela Anderson in the Best Actress - Drama for I'm Still Here. Her chestnut locks were pulled into a chic bun, and she radiated star power from head to toe Accompanying her was her dashing husband and writing partner Ben Falcone, whom shes been married to since 2005 She presented an award with Awkwafina Zoe Saldana led Emilia Perez to top honors while Demi Moore became a first time winner at 62 at the Golden Globes 2025 on Sunday night where Shogun and The Brutalist were also big winners When it came to the film drama categories it was The Brutalist which earned top prize Best Film - Drama and a Best Actor - Drama gong for Adrien Brody When it came to television, it was Shogun which swept the drama categories including Best TV Series and individual honors for Anna Sawai (second from left), Hiroyuki Sanada (second from right), and Tadanobu Asano (right) However, the most shocking moment certainly came when Brazilian actress Fernanda Torres triumphed over A-listers Angelina Jolie , Nicole Kidman, and Pamela Anderson in the Best Actress - Drama for I'm Still Here Emilia Perez earned the most awards on the night with four but truly had it's crowning moment at the end of the night as the film earned Best Film - Musical or Comedy over Anora, Challengers, A Real Pain, The Substance, and Wicked Leading actress Karla Sofia Gascon - who is a trans woman - gave a powerful speech to conclude the event as she said: 'Thank you so much. I chose these colors tonight because I have a message. The light always wins over darkness. 'I have a lot of things to say to you, because you can maybe put us in jail, you can beat us up, but you never can take away our soul, our existence, our identity. I want to say to you, raise your voice. And say, I am who I am. No who you are. Thank you so much.' In Emilia Perez, Zoe plays Rita Mora Castro who is a lawyer as the film is centered around four remarkable women pursuing their individual happiness in Mexico. Cartel leader Emilia (played by Karla Sofia Gascon) enlists Rita, an unappreciated lawyer, to help fake her death so that she can finally live authentically as her true self. The 2025 Golden Globe Awards kicked off in fine form as Zoe upset Ariana Grande to take home the first award of the night. The 46-year-old actress was emotional as she earned Best Supporting Female Actor for her transcendent work in Emilia Perez. She triumphed over an impressive field which included the aforementioned Ariana for Wicked in addition to Selena Gomez for Emilia Perez, Felicity Jones for The Brutalist, Margaret Qualley for The Substance, and Isabella Rossellini for Conclave. Emilia Perez had it's crowning moment at the end of the night as the film earned Best Film - Musical or Comedy over Anora, Challengers, A Real Pain, The Substance, and Wicked as star Karla Sofia Gascon can be seen accepting the honor Leading actress Karla Sofia Gascon - who is a trans woman - gave a powerful speech to conclude the event as she said: 'Thank you so much. I chose these colors tonight because I have a message. The light always wins over darkness The 2025 Golden Globe Awards kicked off in fine form as Zoe Saldana upset Ariana Grande to take home the first award of the night In Emilia Perez, Zoe (pictured left) plays Rita Mora Castro who is a lawyer as the film is centered around four remarkable women pursuing their individual happiness in Mexico; she is shown alongside Karla Sofia Gascon Demi Moore was left shocked as she earned Best Actress in Musical or Comedy for The Substance at the Golden Globes 2025 Meanwhile, Demi was left shocked as she earned Best Actress in Musical or Comedy for The Substance. The 62-year-old actress gave a riveting speech about the journey it took her to get to this crowning achievement. She won over a very impressive field including: Amy Adams for Nightbitch, Cynthia Erivo for Wicked, Karla Sofia Gascon for Emilia Perez, Mikey Madison for Anora, and Zendaya for Challengers. Demi began her acceptance speech by saying: 'Oh, wow! I really wasn't expecting that. I'm just in shock right now. I've been doing this a long time, like, over 45 years, and this is the first time I've ever won anything as an actor. And I am just so humbled and so grateful. '30 years ago I had a producer tell me that I was a popcorn actress, and at that time I made that mean that this is not something I was allowed to have. That I could do movies that were successful and made a lot of money, but that I couldn't be acknowledged, and I bought in and I believed that. That corroded me over time, to the point where I thought a few years ago that maybe this was it, maybe I was complete, maybe I had done what I was supposed to do.' Elle Fanning and her big sister Dakota Fanning donned leggy looks to attend United Talent Agency's afterparty for the 82nd Golden Globe Awards, which was held at Italian restaurant Marea in Beverly Hills on Sunday. 26-year-old Elle (born Mary) opted for a leopard-print cocktail dress featuring a thigh-high slit and matching scarf along with a black clutch and cha-cha heels. Fanning was her usual effervescent self despite her film A Complete Unknown losing the trophies for best actor (Timothee Chalamet), best supporting actor (Edward Norton), and best motion picture drama. 30-year-old Dakota (born Hannah) took the plunge in a black cocktail dress, matching stilettos, and a Dolce&Gabbana Satin Marlene shoulder bag. Hours earlier, Fanning glammed up in a red Dolce & Gabbana gown while her younger sister wore a custom recreation of a Pierre Balmain haute couture FW/53 ball gown - both of which were selected by stylist Samantha McMillen. 'We got ready together all in the same room,' Elle explained to E! News. Elle Fanning (L) and her big sister Dakota Fanning (R) donned leggy looks to attend United Talent Agency's afterparty for the 82nd Golden Globe Awards, which was held at Italian restaurant Marea in Beverly Hills on Sunday 'Our grandmother is here tonight as Dakota's date.' The Emmy nominees - who are both former child stars - co-founded their production company Lewellen Pictures in 2021. Elle's upcoming projects include Mirrah Foulkes' DID drama I Am Sybil, Karim Ainouz's film Rosebushpruning, Dan Trachtenberg's thriller Predator: Badlands, and Apple TV+ series Margo's Got Money Troubles. Dakota's upcoming projects include Bryan Bertino's 2025 horror film Vicious for Paramount Pictures and Megan Gallagher's suburban thriller series All Her Fault for Peacock. Fanning was nominated for best supporting performance in a series for her role as wealthy socialite Marge Sherwood in Netflix show Ripley. But The Perfect Couple star wound up losing the trophy to Baby Reindeer actress Jessica Gunning, who coincidentally also happens to be a client of United Talent Agency. Speaking of which, UTA client Kelly Rowland arrived to the afterparty wearing a cleavage-boosting blue gown beneath a black faux-fur coat selected by stylist Wilford Lenov. The 43-year-old Mea Culpa actress publicly congratulated Zoe Saldana for winning her first Golden Globe for her triple-threat role in Emilia Perez. UTA client Jason Segel arrived at the afterparty with his girlfriend Kayla Radomski after losing the best actor in a TV series (musical/comedy) for his role in Apple TV+ series Shrinking. 26-year-old Elle (born Mary) opted for a leopard-print cocktail dress featuring a thigh-high slit and matching scarf along with a black clutch and cha-cha heels Fanning was her usual effervescent self despite her film A Complete Unknown losing the trophies for best actor, best supporting actor, and best motion picture drama 30-year-old Dakota (born Hannah) took the plunge in a black cocktail dress, matching stilettos, and a Dolce&Gabbana Satin Marlene shoulder bag Hours earlier, Fanning glammed up in a red Dolce & Gabbana gown while her younger sister wore a custom recreation of a Pierre Balmain haute couture FW/53 ball gown - both of which were selected by stylist Samantha McMillen Elle explained to E! News: 'We got ready together all in the same room' She continued: 'Our grandmother is here tonight as Dakota's date' Dakota was nominated for best supporting performance in a series for her role as wealthy socialite Marge Sherwood in Netflix show Ripley But The Perfect Couple star wound up losing the trophy to Baby Reindeer actress Jessica Gunning, who coincidentally also happens to be a client of United Talent Agency Speaking of which, UTA client Kelly Rowland arrived to the afterparty wearing a cleavage-boosting blue gown beneath a black faux-fur coat selected by stylist Wilford Lenov The 43-year-old Mea Culpa actress publicly congratulated Zoe Saldana for winning her first Golden Globe for her triple-threat role in Emilia Perez UTA client Jason Segel arrived at the afterparty with his girlfriend Kayla Radomski after losing the best actor in a TV series (musical/comedy) for his role in Apple TV+ series Shrinking The Bear star Jeremy Allen White was too busy on the New Jersey set of Deliver Me from Nowhere in order to attend, so presenter Jennifer Coolidge accepted the honor on his behalf Another big winner on Sunday was UTA client Ali Wong, who took home best performance in stand-up comedy on TV for her Netflix special Single Lady The 42-year-old funnywoman rocked a red shredded Balenciaga gown with black opera-length gloves selected by stylist Tara Swennen The Bear star Jeremy Allen White was too busy on the New Jersey set of Deliver Me from Nowhere in order to attend, so presenter Jennifer Coolidge accepted the honor on his behalf. Another big winner on Sunday was UTA client Ali Wong, who took home best performance in stand-up comedy on TV for her Netflix special Single Lady. Other nominated UTA clients included Golden Globes host Nikki Glaser, Timothee Chalamet, Karla Sofia Gascon, Cynthia Erivo, Mikey Madison, Isabella Rosselini, Edward Norton, Coralie Fargeat, Delacey, Adam Brody, Cristin Milioti, Ewan McGregor, Kevin Kline, Cooper Koch, Richard Gadd, Jack Lowden, and Harrison Ford. Calvin Harris has shared a holiday snap of himself posing shirtless with his bikini-clad radio presenter wife Vick Hope. The DJ, 40, took to Instagram on Monday to post the photo of the pair taking a dip in the turquoise water beneath Syndicate Falls in the Caribbean island of Dominica. He was joined by wife Vick, 35, who put on a racy display in a tiny orange bikini, and the pair looked more loved-up than ever during their New Year's holiday. Calvin has his hair slicked back following a swim at the tourist attraction and can be seen showing off his toned physique. The One Kiss producer has both his thumbs up and a big smile on his face as the water pours down. The Scottish-born DJ added the caption: 'All the best for the new year! X' Shirtless Calvin Harris posed with his bikini-clad wife Vick Hope whlle under a waterfall in the Caribbean on Instagram on Monday The DJ, 40, posted the rare joint photo of the pair taking a dip in the turquoise water beneath Syndicate Falls in the Caribbean island of Dominica Vick and Calvin celebrated their first wedding anniversary a few months ago, after tying the knot in a lavish Glastonbury-themed wedding in September 2023. After their wedding, the newlyweds jetted off to Brindisi in Italy on a 25million private jet for their romantic honeymoon. In November, Vick put on a busty display as she attended the Harper's Bazaar Women of the Year Awards in London. The presenter stunned in a lime green dress as she walked the red carpet at Claridge's Hotel for the glitzy event organised in honour of the UK's leading female stars. The DJ looked sensational in the corset dress which emphasised her slender figure and long legs. She added inches to her height with a pair of gold platform sandals and accessorised with statement gold earrings. Previously, Vick revealed her and Calvin's love story actually goes all the way back to the mid-Noughties. Vick shared that when she was 19 she rejected a 24-year-old Calvin's advances when he was riding on the high of his hit Acceptable In The 80s. Vick shared a slew of sweet snaps from her holiday in Ibiza over the summer with Calvin and pals She put on a busty display as she attended the Harper's Bazaar Women of the Year Awards in London on Tuesday She told You Magazine: 'It's something that we laughed about on our first proper date. We still laugh about it now.' While Calvin went on to become one of the world's highest producers, racking up an estimated 200million fortune, Vick previously admitted she was 'shallow' and had no idea he would turn into 'an Adonis'. Talking about her engagement to Calvin, Vick confessed she kept the details of her engagement private noting it was a 'very special moment' and that 'it was... perfect'. She added: 'We don't really put anything on social media because the time we have together is "real life" and it's our own. 'For the first time in a long time, I'm finishing work and going home to a life that is just mine. I'm learning to find balance and peace.' Alabama Barker was seen out in public for the first time since she was rushed to the hospital. On Saturday, the 19-year-old stepdaughter of Kourtney Kardashian looked unrecognizable without makeup, donning an oversized hoodie, booty shorts and slippers which is a major contrast from her typical full glam and lavish ensembles. The influencer made a quick breakfast stop in her Mercedes-Benz G-Class to Hank's Bagels in Calabasas, California. Her low profile outing marks the first time she has been spotted out since being taken to a Los Angeles hospital in connection with vape pen nicotine withdrawal. The teenager who is Shanna Moakler and Travis Barker's biological daughter was taken for medical help after she abruptly gave up the habit about a month back, insiders told TMZ last week. After Alabama ceased using a vape, she felt 'panicked and unwell one day while all alone' and contacted 911, insiders told the outlet, and was subsequently rushed to a nearby hospital. Alabama Barker was seen out for the first time in Calabasas, California on Saturday since she was rushed to the hospital Insiders told TMZ that after medical personnel examined her, they chalked up her symptoms to 'nicotine withdrawal,' which is common with people who cease using in full immediately. Alabama was described by sources as 'an occasional vaper' who quit after she decided to explore a career in rap music. The star ditched the unhealthy habit on the advice of music industry professionals who told her the practice would impact her ability to perform. Back in May of 2023, she faced backlash after sharing snippets of her rap track, Dime in the Rough, via TikTok. But, some accused her of cultural appropriation and others questioned her authenticity in the genre. In a now-deleted TikTok video the daughter of the Blink-182 drummer fired back, saying she had been 'influenced by rap my entire upbringing.' Defending her artistic choices she said: 'Since I could walk, I was in the music industry. I was watching my dad perform in punk bands, rock bands, in rap concerts, everything. 'So, for the people that say, "Oh, she doesnt know anything about rap music. She didnt grow up around rap music. Why is she doing this? Why is she doing that?" Ive been influenced by rap my entire upbringing and punk rock.' She added, 'Im beyond grateful for that and blessed. Its not okay for people to make fun of or disrespect any culture at all. So, if me being a rapper bugs you, then you can just keep moving and stop commenting.' The 19-year-old stepdaughter of Kourtney Kardashian looked unrecognizable without makeup donning an oversized hoodie, booty shorts and slippers She made a quick breakfast stop in her Mercedes-Benz G-Class to Hank's Bagels, weeks after she was admitted to a Los Angeles hospital in connection with vape pen nicotine withdrawal Her dressed-down day was a major contrast from her typical full glam and lavish ensembles she typically models; Alabama seen in February 2024 Alabama and her father, 49, were pictured in a selfie earlier this year Since their 2022 wedding, the iconic duo share a blended family of seven children; Travis and Kourtney seen in January 2024 At 11-years-old, Alabama released her debut single Our House. In addition to Alabama, Travis shares his son Landon, 21, and stepdaughter Atiana, 25, with Moakler. He and Kourtney welcomed their first child together, Rocky Thirteen in November 2023. She is also a mom to Mason, 15, Penelope, 12, and Reign, 10, who she shares with ex Scott Disick. Kourtney and Travis were known to be close friends before becoming romantically involved, which they confirmed by posting a picture of their hands intertwined on Instagram in February 2021. They would eventually tie-the-knot in the surprise Las Vegas chapel ceremony in July 2022, though it wasn't legal. They officially married in an intimate courthouse ceremony in Santa Barbara in early May of that same year, and later that month celebrated their union one last time with a lavish wedding in Portofino, Italy. Angelina Jolie has said many times that she does not have a ton of friends in Hollywood. But that is not true. She has at least one Hollywood best friend: Salma Hayek. The two were seen catching up at the Golden Globe Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles on Sunday evening. The two sirens bonded when they made the superhero movie The Eternals, which came out in 2021. Jolie played Thena while Hayek was Ajak. They became so close they have spent time together off set, like at one of Hayek's birthday parties. In fact, they get along so well, Angelina cast Salma in her 2025 movie Without Blood. Jolie, who finalized her divorce from Brad Pitt last month, was also seen hugging Kate Winslet. Angelina Jolie has said many times that she does not have a ton of friends in Hollywood. But that is not true. She has at least one Hollywood best friend: Salma Hayek The two were seen catching up at the Golden Globe Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles on Sunday evening. Zahara is to the right In September, Hayek commented on how much she liked working with Angelina's kids on Without Blood The Oscar winner, 49, hired her sons Maddox, 23, and Pax, 20, to work on the set of Without Blood in the assistant director department. The AD department serves as a liaison between the director and other departments. 'They work hard,' star Hayek told People at the film's premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, adding that the director was 'very professional with them' on the set. 'She's demanding. They got the respect of the crew, and they were good with the crew, and they were very in their place,' the Academy Award nominee explained. 'They were not treating me like they treat me outside of there. They were very, "You have to come," and I go, "Okay!" It was kind of fun. 'They work hard. They are very serious about what they do.' The Mexican-born beauty said she had to adjust to the way she interacted with the boys on set. Jolie, who finalized her divorce from Brad Pitt last month, was also seen with Kate Winslet The two appeared very close as they hugged each other 'It is kind of funny, I was teasing them at the beginning, but then I had to say, "No. I have to separate and just treat them like professionals because it's disrespectful,"' she explained. Pax recovered enough from his e-bike accident to join his mom of the red carpet. Maddox did not attend the festival. Without Blood is a 'parable-like tale of family, war, and revenge' according to the TIFF synopsis. 'In a frontier landscape at the beginning of the 20th century, gunmen descend on a remote farmhouse, determined to exact revenge. Their target, a doctor alone with his son and daughter tries desperately to protect his children. Inevitably, bullets fly.' (L-R) Salma, Jorge Antonio Guerrero, Pax, Angelina, Patricio Josa, Demian Bichir at the premiere of Without Blood during the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival in September Jolie hired her sons Maddox, 23, and Pax, 20, (seen here) to work on her latest film Without Blood Hayek said there was a bit of a role reversal with Jolie during the making of the film. 'In [Eternals] I was a little bit of a mother figure to her. In this movie, I felt like she was my motherly figure because she would come to the set and run it like a family,' the actress explained. 'She was a very efficient mother, but she was also there emotionally every step of the way.' Hayek's daughter, Valentina, 16, whom she shares with husband Francois-Henri Pinault, was on the set as well, which the doting mom said made the shoot 'feel just so comfortable and lovely.' Zendaya is reportedly engaged to Tom Holland after she flashed a diamond ring on her wedding finger on Sunday at the Golden Globes. This comes almost two months after she revealed the moment she was first introduced to Holland. They actually met before they started filming the 2017 film Spider-Man: Homecoming. The Euphoria actress, 28, has been loved up with the Peter Parker star, also 28, since 2021, five years after the Hollywood heavyweights starred alongside each other in the superhero movie. Lifting the lid on when Tom first came into her life, Zendaya shared they met during a chemistry read. The revelation came as she opened up about feeling 'strangely comfortable' working with him. She divulged: 'It's like second nature, if anything. You feel extra safe with the person you're acting beside. Zendaya is reportedly engaged to Tom Holland after she flashed a diamond ring on her wedding finger on Sunday at the Golden Globes This comes almost two months after she revealed the moment she was first introduced to Holland (pictured at the Spider-Man: No Way Home premiere in 2021) 'I love working with him. He's so talented, and so passionate about what he does.' Speaking to Variety for the 2025 Hollywood Issue, she continued: 'He always gives things one thousand percent, even if he's absolutely worn down. I really appreciate that about him. It feels pretty normal. 'That's how we met. Literally, at a chemistry read.' On Monday it was claimed they are engaged. The question was popped 'between Christmas and New Year's,' TMZ reported on Monday. This comes after she flashed a diamond engagement ring at the Golden Globe Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday. The actor got down on one knee 'in a very intimate setting in one of Zendaya's family homes in the United States,' the site added. It was also claimed that no family was around them as it was just the two of them when he asked the beauty to become Mrs Holland. The actress from Oakland was not shy about showing off her ring on the red carpet at the Globes The proposal was also called 'romantic and not over the top.' This isn't the first time Zendaya has shed insight into her relationship with Tom in recent months. In April, the talented A-lister gushed about their relationship as she graced the cover of British Vogue's May Issue. Speaking about how they've grown together, she said: 'We were both very, very young, but my career was already kind of going, and his changed overnight 'I definitely watched his life kind of change in front of him. But he handled it really beautifully.' Zendaya also revealed that she has also considered the prospect of starting a family in the public eye, admitting she doesn't want her future children to 'have to deal with her fame.' Lifting the lid on when Tom first came into her life, Zendaya shared they met during a chemistry read; seen in October She added to Variety that she loves working with Tom because he is 'so talented'; seen in October She said: 'It's a matter of sustainability, how she can continue to make this demanding business that she loves so dearly work for her. 'Because I don't necessarily want my kids to have to deal with this [fame]''... and what does my future look like? Am I going to be a public-facing person forever?' Discussing her fame, she added: 'You just kind of get used to the fact that, ''Oh, I'm also one of these art pieces you're going to take a picture of.'' I just gotta be totally cool with it and just live my life.' 'I think growing up, I always felt like when someone asks for a picture, I have to do it, all the time. You have to say yes, because you just need to be grateful that you're here. 'And while I still feel that way, I also have learnt that I can say no, and I can say kindly that I'm having a day off, or I'm just trying to be myself today, and I don't actually have to perform all the time.' Earlier this month, Tom admitted he often checks up on his superstar girlfriend by googling her. The actor explained: 'The last thing I googled was actually Zendaya I'm not on socials and I delete it when I'm not using it. So sometimes like - it's more of a bit of an anxiety thing. 'I'll check to see if everything's good and to make sure we're all cool. So I just give her a little Google and look through the news and I'm like, "she's good."' Pamela Anderson believed she would marry a very surprising megastar but was left 'really disappointed.' The 57-year-old blonde bombshell thought she would end up marrying Michael Jackson who was her childhood crush she recently told W Magazine. Pamela - who stunned at the Golden Globes Awards 2025 on Sunday - said that she had dreams of marrying the Bad hitmaker who passed away at the age of 50 in 2009. When asked who her childhood crush was she answered: 'Michael Jackson. I thought he would want to marry me. Then I met him, and he didnt ask me to marry him! I was really disappointed.' 'The King Of Pop' Michael Jackson died on June 25, 2009 as result of a cardiac arrest following an overdose of the surgical anesthetic drug Propofol. Meanwhile, the model had joined an array of stars for W Magazine's 2025 Best Performances Portfolio as she posed in a classy trench coat with her hair perfectly blow dried. Pamela Anderson believed she would marry Michael Jackson who was her childhood crush she recently told W Magazine Pamela looked incredible as she joined sultry lingerie-clad Mikey Madison and shirtless Andrew Garfield for a new photoshoot. She teamed her chic ensemble with a pair of opaque stocking and black stiletto heels, while perching on a velvet sofa. The highly anticipated Best Performances portfolio is an annual feature curated by Ws editor-at-large Lynn Hirschberg. The feature highlights stars at the forefront of cinema, from industry legends and icons to those whose phenomenal talent is ushering in a new wave of stardom. Celebrating 34 actors who were thrilling, mesmerising, and, ultimately, unforgettable, this years Best Performance issue features Adrien Brody, Angelina Jolie, Ariana Grande, Colman Domingo, Cynthia Erivo and Demi Moore. Also featured are Kingsley Ben-Adir, Mia Goth, Nicole Kidman, Paul Mescal, Saoirse Ronan, Selena Gomez, Tilda Swinton, Zendaya, and Zoe Saldana across sixteen unique covers. Elsewhere in the accompanying interview, Pamela admitted she has 'been underestimated and not really given a chance to showcase her talents,' as she reflected on her career. 'I feel like this is just the beginning,' she added. 'The King Of Pop' Michael Jackson (pictured in July 1996) died on June 25, 2009 as result of a cardiac arrest following an overdose of the surgical anesthetic drug Propofol When asked who her childhood crush was in the W Magazine feature she answered: 'Michael Jackson. I thought he would want to marry me. Then I met him, and he didnt ask me to marry him! I was really disappointed' 'I have a lot more to give. I'm capable of much more than I ever believed I could do in my past.' Pamela had an emotional reaction to landing her first-ever Golden Globe nomination for The Last Showgirl as she was ultimately bested by Brazilian actress Fernanda Torres for her work in I'm Still Here. The Baywatch star, who has landed rave reviews for her portrayal of a faded Las Vegas showgirl in the film, has been nominated in the Best Actress - Drama category. Sharing an inspiring message to People, she said: 'I share this beautiful nomination with The Last Showgirl Family, my family, and my hard working companions on this interesting journey. 'It is never too late to dream, to start again, to stay open to possibilities we are not all so lucky. 'I wish everyone my love and thanks while I navigate this new exciting chapter.' Pam stars as Shelly, a glamorous aging showgirl who must plan for her future when her show abruptly closes after a 30-year run. The Last Showgirl, which was initially released on September 6, also stars Jamie Lee Curtis, Kiernan Shipka, Brenda Song and Jason Schwartzman. Pamela most recently worked on The Last Showgirl for which she landed her first-ever Golden Globe nomination The film will be given a limited LA release on December 13 as an awards-qualifying run and premiere nationwide on January 10 2025. Pam has ignited speculation she will land a Best Actress Oscar nomination for the role with Curtis' performance lauded as a 'force of nature' by Variety critic Peter Debruge. Deadlines Pete Hammond said: 'Anderson is remarkable in this role, which fits her own natural optimism but also gives her the chance to play her emotions laid bare. She will break your heart. 'I have always thought she was an underrated comedic actress, based especially on her short-lived 2005 sitcom Stacked, but the dramatic chops have not been there before, certainly not on this scale. And she is all-in here. Curtis steals every scene she has with wicked wit.' On Rotten Tomatoes the film has 81% of 52 critics' reviews as positive. Pamela last starred on screen in the 2017 film adaptation of Baywatch, briefly reprising her iconic role of CJ Parker. Once she got her hands on Kate Gersten's script, she said she was instantly drawn to the character, who takes her art form very seriously despite everyone reducing her to a sexual object. 'I've never read a script that I responded to like that before no one was sending me anything like this,' she said. 'I read it and I thought, I have to do this. It's life or death. It's really important.' She was ultimately bested by Brazilian actress Fernanda Torres for her work in I'm Still Here At the movie's premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival back in September, she said she's 'been getting ready my whole life for this role.' 'Having a beautiful, messy life is something incredible to draw from, and sometimes I'll look back on my life and think, I could have done this differently, but you need the life experience to be able to look back and say those things,' she said. 'I do love the craft of acting and I have taken a lot of private lessons and, finally, I felt like this is an opportunity for me to put that into practice,' she added. Anderson added that she was able to have 'a thousand percent focus' on the project since she's single and her two sons are grown. The blonde bombshell stunned next to her handsome son Brandon Thomas Lee as they hit the red carpet of the Golden Globe Awards 2025 on Sunday 'I have nothing to lose. And what if this is the last movie I ever do, or the only movie I ever do?' She said she took the role as a chance to 'see what I'm made of.' 'I knew I was capable of more than I'd done in the past, and I kind of had given up and went home and thought, "Oh well, it's too bad. I screwed up." I didn't work hard enough or people just see me a certain way because I fell into the trappings,' she said. 'I want to be defined by what I do and not what has been done to me.' Nicolas Cage and his wife Riko Shibata put on a elegant display at the Golden Globes on Sunday. The Renfield star looked dapper in a classic black tuxedo as his 6ft frame absolutely towered over his petite wife Riko, 29. Riko looked lovely in a taupe lace down featuring a sheer skirt and a short-sleeved black fur jacket. In heels, Riko came to just above Nic's shoulder, which means she'd be shorter than the height of his shoulder when barefoot. He met Riko during a trip to Japan in 2020. They married in 2021 when he was 57 and she was 26. She is his fifth wife and they share daughter August Francesca, two. Nicolas Cage and his wife Riko Shibata put on a elegant display at the Golden Globes on Sunday The Renfield star looked dapper in a classic black tuxedo as his 6ft frame absolutely towered over his petite wife Riko, 29 The Con Air star was previously married to Patricia Arquette from 1995 to 2001, Lisa Marie Presley from 2002 to 2004, Alice Kim from 2004 to 2016 and Erika Koike for four days in 2019. Cage also has two sons, Weston, 34, whom he shares with his ex-girlfriend actress Christina Fulton, and Kal-El, 19, from his marriage to Kim. Riko isn't Nic's first much younger wife, his last three wives have all been more than 20 years younger than he is. Alice Kim, now 40 and Erika Koike, now 39, both are decades younger than Francis Ford Coppola's nephew. Riko and Nic were introduced through friends and he proposed to her via FaceTime while she was home in Kyoto and he was home in Las Vegas. At 60, the Oscar winner is 31 years older than the Kyoto native, who is also four years younger than his first son Weston. Cage married Riko in an 'intimate' wedding at the Wynn Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas in 2021, with the date chosen to honor the birthday of the grooms late father. 'Its true, and we are very happy,' he told DailyMail.com in a statement about their marriage. RIko looked lovely in a taupe lace down featuring a sheer skirt and a short-sleeved black fur jacket Nic - who will turn 61 on January 7 - met Riko during a trip to Japan in 2020 A state of Nevada marriage certificate obtained by DailyMail.com shows Riko has taken Cage's name and is now known as Riko Cage. Official documents show that Cage and Riko applied for their wedding license on January 10 - the day of Riko's 26th birthday - and that it is her first marriage. Cage announced their engagement in an interview with his brother Marc Coppola's radio show in August of 2021. He said at the time: 'She left New York and went back to Kyoto, Japan, and I went back to Nevada and I haven't seen her for 6 months.' 'We're really happy together and we're really excited to spend that time together so I finally just said "Look, I wanna marry you," and we got engaged on FaceTime.' 'I got her a black diamond engagement ring.' 'Her favorite color is black so she wanted the black gold, and the black diamond.' 'I customized and personalized it and I actually sent it to her FedEx.' In heels, Riko came to just above Nic's shoulder, which means she'd be shorter than the height of his shoulder when barefoot They married in 2021 when he was 57 and she was 26. She is his fifth wife and they share daughter August Francesca, two. Earlier this year Cage discussed his relationship with his three children, whom he shares with three different women. 'They're all different experiences. Each one has a different mother,' he told The New Yorker in an interview. 'It's not what I had originally thought would happen when I fell in love or got married that I would have three different children with three different moms but nonetheless thats what's happened,' he went on. 'Every child is different. Theres a different kind of level of attention,' he said. Angelina Jolie's kids seem to have plenty of freedom. Last month the Oscar-winning Maria star revealed the several of her children have already gotten tattoos. They appear to be the eldest kids Maddox and Pax who have the same bird tattoo Angie has on her chest and arm. And on Sunday evening at the Golden Globe Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles, another reveal was made. Her daughter Zahara has at least 12 piercings in one of her ears. The other ear had 14 piercings. And she also has a septum piercing in her nose. The septum piercing punctures the skin between the nostrils allowing the jewelry to dangle in between. Then there is the diamond stud in her nose as well. That means the child of Jolie and Brad Pitt has a total of 28 piercings that are on display. Angelina Jolie's kids seem to have plenty of freedom. Last month the Oscar-winning Maria star revealed the several of her children have already gotten tattoos. Now her daughter Zahara revealed she has 28 piercings Her daughter Zahara has at least 12 piercings in one of her ears. The other ear had 14 piercings. And she also has a septum piercing in her nose. The septum piercing punctures the skin between the nostrils allowing the jewelry to dangle in between. Then there is the diamond stud in her nose as well Mom Jolie has dozens of tattoos Mom was showing off some piercings too. The Los Angeles based star, who is filming Stitches in Paris now, had several earrings on and even an ear cuff in a dramatic display. She showed off the bling while chatting with her longtime pal Salma Hayek at the Globes. The two sirens bonded when they made the superhero movie The Eternals, which came out in 2021. Jolie played Thena while Hayek was Ajak. They became so close they have spent time together off set, like at one of Hayek's birthday parties. In fact, they get along so well, Angelina cast Salma in her 2025 movie Without Blood. Jolie, who finalized her divorce from Brad Pitt last month, was also seen hugging Kate Winslet. In September, Hayek commented on how much she liked working with Angelina's kids on Without Blood The Oscar winner, 49, hired her sons Maddox, 23, and Pax, 20, to work on the set of Without Blood in the assistant director department. The AD department serves as a liaison between the director and other departments. Jolie has said many times that she does not have a ton of friends in Hollywood. But that is not true. She has at least one Hollywood best friend: Salma Hayek The two were seen catching up at the Golden Globe Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles on Sunday evening. Zahara is to the right 'They work hard,' star Hayek told People at the film's premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, adding that the director was 'very professional with them' on the set. 'She's demanding. They got the respect of the crew, and they were good with the crew, and they were very in their place,' the Academy Award nominee explained. 'They were not treating me like they treat me outside of there. They were very, "You have to come," and I go, "Okay!" It was kind of fun. 'They work hard. They are very serious about what they do.' The Mexican-born beauty said she had to adjust to the way she interacted with the boys on set. Jolie, who finalized her divorce from Brad Pitt last month, was also seen with Kate Winslet The two appeared very close as they hugged each other 'It is kind of funny, I was teasing them at the beginning, but then I had to say, "No. I have to separate and just treat them like professionals because it's disrespectful,"' she explained. Pax recovered enough from his e-bike accident to join his mom of the red carpet. Maddox did not attend the festival. Without Blood is a 'parable-like tale of family, war, and revenge' according to the TIFF synopsis. 'In a frontier landscape at the beginning of the 20th century, gunmen descend on a remote farmhouse, determined to exact revenge. Their target, a doctor alone with his son and daughter tries desperately to protect his children. Inevitably, bullets fly.' (L-R) Salma, Jorge Antonio Guerrero, Pax, Angelina, Patricio Josa, Demian Bichir at the premiere of Without Blood during the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival in September Hayek said there was a bit of a role reversal with Jolie during the making of the film. 'In [Eternals] I was a little bit of a mother figure to her. In this movie, I felt like she was my motherly figure because she would come to the set and run it like a family,' the actress explained. 'She was a very efficient mother, but she was also there emotionally every step of the way.' Hayek's daughter, Valentina, 16, whom she shares with husband Francois-Henri Pinault, was on the set as well, which the doting mom said made the shoot 'feel just so comfortable and lovely.' Rachel Zoe's estranged husband Rodger Berman was seen cuddling a mystery woman just four months after announcing their split following 33 years together. The 56-year-old banker was seen with his arm wrapped around an unnamed blonde woman in Studio City, California on Sunday. The mystery woman held onto the hand of the 53-year-old fashion designer's estranged husband on the romantic stroll. Rodger looked comfortable in an all-black look including T-Shirt, sweatpants, sneakers, designer shades, and beanie. He added a pop of color in the form of a bright yellow tote bag which was draped over his shoulder. His mystery companion donned a blue cropped crewneck sweater along with clinging grey leggings and white sneakers. Rachel Zoe 's estranged husband Rodger Berman was seen cuddling a mystery woman on a Romantic stroll in Studio City, California on Sunday This came just four months after announcing Rachel and Rodger's split following 33 years together; pictured in October 2023 In white font set against a black background, Zoe wrote back on September 12: 'After 33 years together and 26 years married, Rodger and I have come to the mutual decision to end our marriage' Her blonde locks were put up in a messy bun as she also sported a pair of sunglasses as she went make-up free. Back on September 12, Rachel announced her separation from Rodger. The fashion designer who attended a Michael Kors dinner in June and banker were married for 26 years and together for 33. In white font set against a black background, Zoe wrote: 'After 33 years together and 26 years married, Rodger and I have come to the mutual decision to end our marriage.' She added, 'We are incredibly proud of the loving family we have created and our countless memories together. 'Our number one priority has been and will always be our children. We are committed to coparent our boys and to continue to work together within the many businesses we share. We ask for privacy during this time as we navigate this new chapter.' She signed off, 'With love and gratitude Rachel & Rodger.' The former couple are parents to sons Kaius, 10, and Skyler, 13. The 56-year-old banker was seen with his arm wrapped around an unnamed blonde woman who held onto the hand of the 53-year-old fashion designer's estranged husband Zoe and Berman met in the early 90s while they were students at George Washington University. They married on Valentine's Day in 1996. Parts of their marriage were documented on the Bravo reality series The Rachel Zoe Project, which aired from 2007 to 2013. The two also appeared on Lifetime's Fashionably Late With Rachel Zoe, which lasted one season in 2015. Berman is the cofounder and co-CEO of the fashion entrepreneur's Rachel Zoe Inc. Together, they were known as a power couple in the fashion world/ In 2021, the pair spoke to People about their joint podcast Works For Us and shared, 'We do not pretend to be any kind of trained relationship experts, but we do really understand people and relationships. Zoe added, 'Everyone, no matter who they are, is in a relationship. It doesnt matter what kind: its a marriage, its dating, its best friends, its a mother-daughter, its a coworker.' The former couple are parents to sons Kaius, 10, and Skyler, 13; pictured in March Zoe and Berman met in the early 90s while they were students at George Washington University Two years ago she took to social media to pay tribute to Rodger on their 31st anniversary. 'I have loved you @rbermanus from this day 8.29 31 years ago we have done this life together and I cannot wait to see what is yet to come,' she wrote in the caption at the time. 'Happiest anniversary to my person And Yes everyone we met in kindergarten,' she joked.' Rodger previously opened up to Harper's Bazaar about how they met. 'I met Rachel in the summer of 1991. She was 19, and I was 22. She was a restaurant hostess, and I was working as a waiter in Washington, D.C., where we both attended college,' he told the publication in 2011. 'I vividly remember the first time I saw her wearing a tight black mini dress, high-heeled pumps, stick-straight hair, and big red lips covered in M.A.C. Chili lipstick,' the father-of-two recalled. Despite the big change in her life, Rachel seems to be taking things in stride. On Sunday she shared outtakes from her day in the sun with her 4.7 million Instagram followers via the app's Stories feature Zoe shared a smiley group photo with four gal pals, sharing with fans: 'When I show up to have a quick drink @hotelbelar and stay until close' Despite the big change in her life, Rachel seems to be taking things in stride. On Sunday she shared outtakes from her day in the sun with her 4.7 million Instagram followers via the app's Stories feature. Clad in a black bandeau bikini top, she recorded selfie videos, writing over one clip, 'A few hours alone on a Sunday. Tanning in sunnies by @rachelzoe.' Zoe also shared a smiley group photo with four gal pals, sharing with fans: 'When I show up to have a quick drink @hotelbelar and stay until close.' Tom Holland reportedly received the blessing of Zendaya's father Kazembe Ajamu Coleman months before proposing to the actress. TMZ reports Holland, 28, was keen to obtain Coleman's proposal before dropping down to one knee. Holland, whom the outlet described as very traditional, put considerable weight into obtaining permission prior to the proposal and is said to have met with Coleman 'months ago.' Of course his future father-in-law gave his blessing. Zendaya's family is said to be incredibly excited with the couple's engagement and upcoming marriage and think highly of the actor, with insiders saying they love the star and see him as a 'class act.' Tom reportedly waited months propose to Zendaya, 28, as he was awaiting the perfect time to ask for her hand in marriage. Tom Holland reportedly received the blessing of Zendaya's father Kazembe Ajamu Coleman months before proposing to the actress; Zendaya and her father in 2016 Holland and Zendaya are reportedly engaged; pictured 2021 The question was popped 'between Christmas and New Year's,' TMZ reported on Monday after she flashed a diamond engagement ring at the Golden Globe Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday. The actor got down on one knee 'in a very intimate setting in one of Zendaya's family homes in the United States,' the site added. It was also claimed that no family was around them as it was just the two of them when he asked the beauty to become Mrs Holland. The proposal was also called 'romantic and not over the top.' News of the reported engagement comes after Zendaya sparked engagement rumors when she flashed a massive diamond ring on her wedding finger at the Golden Globes. The superstar, who has been in a romance with Holland since 2021, seemed to have more to celebrate than just her acting nomination for Challengers at the star-studded event. While her burnt tangerine Louis Vuitton gown and her new bob hairstyle certainly turned heads, it was the dazzling accessory on her left hand that had everyone talking - and it has been valued at $500,000. A stunning solitaire diamond glistened on her finger, leaving fans wondering if Hollandwho did not attend the eventhad finally popped the question. Zendaya and Tom met on the set of Spider-Man: Homecoming in 2017 but have mostly kept their relationship out of the public eye. Engagement rumors began after Zendaya was seen wearing a dazzling ring on her ring finger at the Golden Globes Zendaya and Tom met on the set of Spider-Man: Homecoming in 2017 but have mostly kept their relationship out of the public eye Tom previously shared the reason behind his desire for privacy, saying that his relationship with Zendaya is 'the thing I keep most sacred.' In a 2022 appearance on Jay Shetty's podcast, he explained, 'My relationship is the thing I keep most sacred. I don't talk about it. I try my best to keep it as private as possible.' He added, 'We both feel like that is the healthiest way for us to move on as a couple, so I do try to keep as removed from Hollywood as possible.' Zendaya and Tom met on the set of Spider-Man: Homecoming in 2017, but predominantly keep their relationship out of the public eye. Paddy McGuinness has broken his silence over recent romance rumours as he was accused dating his TV co-star. The comedian, 51, sent his Instagram followers into a frenzy after he shared an album of snaps with Cherry Healey on Inside The Factory and dubbed her a 'diamond'. Among the photos, Paddy, whose divorce with wife Christine was finalised in October last year, shared an insight of the two them enjoying a meal out and visiting a book shop. And this led to fans accusing them of dating and many said that the pair 'looked very comfortable together'. He gushed: 'The whole crew on Inside The Factory have been a joy to work with. A small but perfectly formed team. 'Also I'd never met @cherryhealey before but we hit it off straight away. Absolutely love working with her, she's an absolute diamond!' Paddy McGuinness has broken his silence over recent romance rumours as he was accused dating his TV co-star The comedian, 51, sent his Instagram followers into a frenzy after he shared an album of snaps with Cherry Healey on Inside The Factory and dubbed her a 'diamond' But his admiration for the star ignited a flock of comments asking if they were an item in his comment box as one penned: 'Is this a soft launch of the new Mrs?' 'Is this your new love? If so all the very best (you look very comfortable together).' 'I suspect your soulmate.' But despite excitement from his followers, Paddy broke his silence and confirm that they are in fact just friends. He replied to his followers: 'Not at all. She's just a great person.' Paddy made his Inside The Factory debut alongside Cherry last month during the BBC show's Christmas special. Previously Paddy revealed he was nervous about working with co-host Cherry for the first time, in an interview with The Sun. He said: 'That's always the tricky bit, you hope you get on. But I'm telling you now, me and Cherry do so much laughing. Among the photos, Paddy, whose divorce with wife Christine was finalised in October last year, shared an insight of the two them enjoying a meal out and visiting a book shop And this led to fans accusing them of dating and many said that the pair 'looked very comfortable together' But despite excitement from his followers, Paddy broke his silence and confirm that they are in fact just friends 'As soon as I met her, we had the biggest talk and we just got on like that. 'This is testament to her - when I did my Children in Need challenge, she turned up in Kendal to surprise me - she even brought me up a lasagne she'd made!' 'I drove in in this big heavy goods vehicle for the first shot. I thought 'I got my heavy goods licence doing Top Gear, now I'm driving into the place I used to work at 30-odd years ago, hosting another show for the BBC'. 'When I was that 16-year-old kid who used to walk to work with butties my mum had made me, who'd have thought all these years later, I'd have had all these amazing things go on in my life. 'It was one of those moments where I thought 'B****y h***, life eh? It does have its twists and turns'.' Gregg stepped down from the show last year after the allegations in regard to female factory workers at Nestle, where he was filming at the time. Sources said he had been 'rude towards staff' and spoke to them in a 'derogatory manner, especially to women'. But he later denied accusations, saying the claims were 'inaccurate'. The show visits factories up and down the country to see how our favourite products are made. Previously Paddy revealed he was nervous about working with co-host Cherry for the first time, in an interview with The Sun In the ninth season, Paddy and Cherry visit a host of new factories that produce some of our favourite foods on a massive scale, from sliced bread to flapjacks and sausage rolls. In a Christmas special the duo visit a chocolate factory in Belgium to learn how they produce an incredible four million individual chocolate shells every single day. Gregg is facing accusations of inappropriate behaviour across five shows over a 17-year period. Staff members and former contestants, including celebrities such as Emma Kennedy and Kirsty Wark, have claimed the former greengrocer made them feel uncomfortable on set. Gregg has been accused of a raft of inappropriate behaviour including walking around on set naked except for a sock on his penis, getting changed in front of female staff, and even groping crew members. Other allegations include sharing intimate details of his sex life, becoming fixated on a female staff member who was dating women and asking her about the 'logistics' and flirting with younger women on set. Gregg stepped down from MasterChef while an external investigation is conducted by production company Banijay UK. It was reported by The Times that he had allegedly offended certain female staff members at the Nestle UK factory in York with comments about their weight during a 'friendly' conversation. The comments were non-sexual but were deemed 'inappropriate' and a complaint was lodged with Voltage TV, the production company responsible for developing the show. Gregg stepped down from the show last year after the allegations in regard to female factory workers at Nestle, where he was filming at the time Gregg then stepped back from MasterChef after nearly 20 years amid an investigation into his alleged misconduct, with Grace Dent is replacing him as judge (pictured with co-host John Torode) 'He was rude towards staff and continued to talk in a derogatory manner, especially to women. 'He was given a talking-to and was appalled that he had caused such offence,' a source said. Voltage TV asked Wallace to moderate his language and filming continued - but his behaviour seemingly didn't change. Staff reportedly informed management that they did not want the show to return while Wallace remained at the helm. Alessandra Ambrosio seemed to have a great time with her new boyfriend Buck Palmer in Uruguay. The supermodel shared several photos with the Australian hunk at the luxury resort Fasano Las Piedras - Punta Del Este. 'New years in Uruguai was a dream Punta del este @fasano @laspiedras,' wrote the catwalk veteran in her Instagram caption. The 43-year-old Victoria's Secret model was seen in a black bikini while in a lake as she put her arms over her head then posed with friend Paula Bezerra de Mello. She was also kissing the Australian jewelry designer as they posed together at sunset at the resort. The two have been dating for the past several months but only went public in November. Alessandra Ambrosio seemed to have a great time with her new boyfriend Buck Palmer in Uruguay The 43-year-old Victoria's Secret model was seen in a black bikini while in a lake as she put her arms over her head then posed with a friend In a previous post they were both dressed up as they rang in 2025. 'So grateful for all my Loved ones this year!! Ending on such a high note gathering all my closest friends and family at home Looking forward to a beautiful year ahead and sending you all Good vibes for this new year! @mhternes,' read her caption. The images were by photographer Matias Ternes. Alessandra had on a yellow and black summer dress with her hair partially down. And her new beau, whom she has been dating for the past several months, wore a cotton shirt with plenty of silver jewelry. Also at the party were her two children whom she had with ex Jamie Mazur, who now dates Bijou Phillips. Last month they kissed on the beach. Buck went shirtless, showing off his chiseled physique while wearing swim trunks, and he accessorized with chunky black sunglasses and added a green cap for a splash of color. The hat, which runs for about $50 from Good Quality Human, read 'Mi Casa, Su Casa' on the front, which was broken up by a large 'LA' design. The colors perfectly matched the Brazilian flag, which fluttered in the breeze above Alessandra and Buck's heads. The supermodel shared several photos with the Australian hunk at the luxury resort Fasano Las Piedras - Punta Del Este 'New years in Uruguai was a dream Punta del este @fasano @laspiedras,' wrote the catwalk veteran in her Instagram caption She let the loved-up photo do the talking and simply captioned her post with green, yellow and blue heart emojis. According to her tagged location, the couple were enjoying the day at the popular beach Praia Brava, which is located on the north end of the large Santa Catarina Island, which is home to the state's capital city, Florianopolis. She later paid tribute to the city by naming her beachwear brand GAL Floripa, using a nickname for the capital. Buck has a surprising connection to Alessandra as he's the ex-husband of Ashley Hart, the sister of Alessandra's fellow Victoria Secret model Jessica Hart. Their Instagram kiss was a rare public display of affection for the couple, who have kept their romance relatively private and under wraps until now. Though they only went public with their relationship earlier this month, it appears the couple have been dating for quite some time if Alessandra's post is anything to go by. Alessandra and Buck officially unveiled their romance when they were seen walking hand-in-hand together after attending a party at Art Basel in Miami, Florida. She was also kissing the Australian jewelry designer as they posed together at sunset at the resort The two have been dating for the past several months but only went public in November Alessandra had previously been featured with Buck in photographs shared to Instagram of them having fun at the beach during a trip to the island of Kauai in Hawaii. In the shots, the pair looked comfortable in each other's company and Alessandra tagged Buck in the post as she hinted at their relationship. She also shared a snap of herself kissing Buck on the cheek as they went Instagram official before their first public outing as a couple. Alessandra has rubbed shoulders with the Australian model Jessica Hart over the years, having both risen to fame as Victoria's Secret models in the 2000s. Buck and Jessica's sister Ashley went their separate ways after just two years of marriage in 2017, with the model candidly discussing their decision to separate in 2019. On Monday she shared photos in a bikini top, netted shirt and cut-off denim shorts She had the same outfit on when hugging Palmer Speaking to Women's Health, Ashley recalled her heartache and said she never thought she would be divorced before the age of 30. 'I [didnt] think that would be my life having that experience before 30,' she admitted. 'Relationships are so often a mirror - when they're tough, I think that's some of the best material for self-growth.' Ashley confessed that getting to a place where she could reflect back on her split from Buck in a 'lighthearted manner' took some time. 'Its definitely taken me a while to... you know, to not be able to burst into a ball of tears simply by telling a story,' she added. Ashley and Buck dated for seven years before tying the knot in Los Angeles in 2015. They publicly announced their decision to separate in January 2017. Two weeks ago they kissed on a beach in Brazil Meanwhile, Brazilian model Alessandra has also had a high-profile love life over the years. She was engaged to businessman Jamie Mazur from 2008 to 2018 and they share a daughter Anja, 16, and son Noah, 12. Alessandra has also had notable relationships with Nicolo Oddi, Richard Lee, Marcelo Boldrini and Giovani Borghetti in the past. She was most recently linked to Alexander Smurfit earlier this year before her relationship with Buck came to light. Alessandra is one of the longest-tenured models with Victoria's Secret and has walked more than 15 runways with the brand. She also returned to the catwalk for the 2024 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, its first since the brand retired the annual show in 2019. Alessandra joined a whole host of household modeling names including Kate Moss, Tyra Banks and Carla Bruni in returning for the show. Alessandra's very first time appearing in the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show was back in 2000 at Cannes alongside modeling icons Tyra Banks and Gisele Bundchen. Arnold Schwarzenegger continued to show off his Santa Claus transformation as he filmed The Man With The Bag in NYC this week. The Terminator star, 77, looked near unrecognizable with a shaggy white beard, matching hair and a Christmas sweater as he strolled in the Big Apple. For the scene, he was also dressed in tan chinos as he joined Reacher star Alan Ritchson, 42, to film scenes in a snow plow. Adding to the festive atmosphere in January, fake snow was falling as the actor walked down the street. Arnold, who is renowned for his many roles in action movies, is back filming his first festive film in nearly three decades. Arnold previously appeared in the 1996 Christmas family comedy Jingle All The Way as a workaholic father on a mission to get his son a sold-out action figure, which results in him learning the real meaning of Christmas. Arnold Schwarzenegger continued to show off his Santa Claus transformation as he filmed The Man With The Bag in NYC this week The former governor of California, who recently became a grandfather for the third time, joins a long list of actors that have played Jolly Old St. Nicholas, including Ben Affleck, Tim Allen, Billy Bob Thornton and Kurt Russell. News first broke that the Hollywood legend would be starring in another Christmas comedy back in March. Adam Shankman is directing the Amazon MGM Studios film from a script by Allan Rice. The plotline reads: 'When Santa's magic bag is stolen, he turns to his naughty list to find Vance, a former thief, to help him get it back. 'Along with his daughter, Santa, and a group of misfit elves, Vance will have to pull off the greatest heist of his life to save Christmas.' It will mark the first time that Arnie has appeared in a festive movie since Jingle All The Way in 1996. And it will be his first film role of any kind since Terminator: Dark Fate in 2019. He did shoot the flick Kung Fury 2 that year but it has not been released due to legal issues. The Terminator star, 77, looked near unrecognizable with a shaggy white beard, matching hair and a Christmas sweater as he strolled in the Big Apple For the scene, he was also dressed in tan chinos as he joined Reacher star Alan Ritchson, 42, to film scenes in a snow plow And he was seen in his documentary last year for Netflix. The three-part docuseries followed Arnie's multifaceted life and career, from bodybuilding champ to Hollywood icon to politician. Arnie played the titular character in the Terminator franchise but admitted last year that he was 'done' with the movies. He thinks the future of the series should be passed on to other stars, added the ex of Maria Shriver. At the time, the actor told The Hollywood Reporter: 'The franchise is not done. I'm done. 'I got the message loud and clear that the world wants to move on with a different theme when it comes to 'The Terminator'. Someone has to come up with a great idea.' Arnie explained that he will always have happy memories of the franchise that turned him into a bona fide leading man. Arnold is best known for his roles in many action films, including The Terminator, and days as a bodybuilder (pictured in 1976) He said: 'The Terminator was largely responsible for my success, so I always would look at it very fondly.' In addition to his acting career, he is father to five children: daughters Katherine, 35, and Christina, 31, and sons Patrick, 31, and Christopher, 27, and Joseph, 27. He shares all his children with Shriver, apart from Joseph, whose mother is Mildred Patricia Baena, his longtime housekeeper. Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis were seen on a rare family outing in Los Angeles on Sunday afternoon as the actor's ex-wife was preparing to win her first major acting award. Kutcher 46, and Kunis, 41, looked relaxed as they made their way along the Hollywood Walk of Fame with their kids toward the Pantages Theater for a stage performance of Wicked, the musical. The family of four made a colorful group with the Goodrich actress wearing a pair of mustard pants rolled up at the hem with a blue sweater and sneakers. Kunis' long, dark hair was brushed straight and she wore natural looking makeup behind her dark sunglasses. Daughter Wyatt, 10, looked adorable in a bright pink dress and white sneakers, covering up in a gray sweater. Son Dmitri, eight, strolled along in a short sleeve green button down shirt and black jeans rolled up at the cuff. Mila Kunis, 41, Ashton, Kutcher, 46 and their kids Wyatt and Dmitri were spotted strolling along the Hollywood Walk of Fame Sunday on a family outing Kutcher kept a low profile wearing an orange corduroy shirt over a gray shirt with jeans and brown boots. The Your Place or Mine star placed a navy blue and orange billed hat over his brown hair. While the family were visiting the land of Oz, Kutcher's first wife, actress Demi Moore, 62, was won the award for Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy at the Golden Globes for her performance in the psychological thriller The Substance. Her portrayal of a fading star who turns to black market drugs to temporarily create a younger looking version of herself has also been nominated for a Critics Choice award and has made her a likely contender for an Oscar nomination as well. 'Im just in shock right now. Ive been doing this a long time like, over 45 years and this is the first time Ive ever won anything as an actor,' she told the audience, adding, 'And Im just so humbled and so grateful.' Kutcher and Moore were first linked together in 2003, about the same time her film Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle came out, shocking some fans with their 15-year age difference. The pair seemed unfazed by the criticism and married in 2005 with the then 25-year-old actor becoming a step-dad to her three daughters, Rumer, Scout, and Tallulah, now 36, 33 and 30 respectively. During their marriage, Moore and Kutcher founded the charity the DNA Foundation, now known as Thorn: Digital Defenders of Children to protect children from sexual abuse and human trafficking. Kutcher and his family had tickets to see Wicked, the musical, at the Pantages Theater in Hollywood While the Kutcher/Kunis family were enjoying the Broadway show, the actor's ex-wife Demi Moore, 62, won her first major acting award, the Golden Globe for Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Motion Picture for her performance in The Substance Moore's portrayal of a fading star who turns to black market drugs to temporarily create a younger looking version of herself has also been nominated for a Critics Choice award and has made her a likely contender for an Oscar nomination as well Kutcher resigned from the organization in 2023, after he and Kunis wrote letters of support for their former co-star Danny Masterson, who was sentenced to 30 years to life for sexually assaulting two women in 2003. Moore remains a member of the organization's board. The couple announced they were separating in 2011, and finalized their divorce in 2013. 'It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that I have decided to end my six-year marriage to Ashton,' Moore said in a statement at the time. ' 'As a woman, a mother and a wife, there are certain values and vows that I hold sacred, and it is in this spirit that I have chosen to move forward with my life.' Kutcher and Moore were first linked together in 2003, about the same time her film Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle came out, shocking some fans with their 15-year age difference (picured in New York City in June 2003) The couple married in 2005, but separated in 2011 and finalized their divorce in 2013. In her memoir, Inside Out, the actress accused Kutcher of infidelity (Pictured in Beverly Hills in July 2009) In accepting the award, Moore said she was 'so humbled and so grateful... I celebrate this as a marker of my wholeness and of the love that is driving me and for the gift of doing something I love and being reminded that I do belong' In her memoir, Inside Out, the G.I. Jane star revealed she participated in threesomes at Kutcher's request, which in turn 'blurred the lines' in their relationship, and resulting in the That 70's Show actor being unfaithful to her. After the split, Moore broke her 20 years of sobriety and began abusing Vicodin and alcohol, which resulted in her daughters and their dad, her first husband Bruce Willis, 69, pulling away from her. The actress entered rehab in 2012 where she received treatment for trauma, codependency, and substance abuse. She has continued to maintain her sobriety. In closing her acceptance speech Sunday night Moore said, 'And so today, I celebrate this as a marker of my wholeness and of the love that is driving me and for the gift of doing something I love and being reminded that I do belong.' Iconic cinematographer Roger Pratt has died aged 77. The British star, who was nominated for an Oscar in 1999, passed away in December, with his death confirmed by the British Society of Cinematographers this week. His cause and date of death has not been revealed at this time. Pratt's impressive body of work includes Batman (1989), Frankenstein (1994), Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002), Troy (2004), Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005), Inkheart (2008) and The Karate Kid (2010). His stellar work was honored with a nomination for Best Cinematography at the Oscars for The End of the Affair, starring Ralph Fiennes and Julianne Moore. He also picked up BAFTA nominations in 1999 and 2000 for The End of the Affair and Chocolat starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp. Iconic cinematographer Roger Pratt has died aged 77 - pictured 2004 Pratt's impressive body of work includes Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002 - pictured) He frequently collaborated with Monty Python legend Terry Gilliam with the pair first meeting on the set of 1975's Monty Python and the Holy Grail when Pratt worked as a clapper loader. Gilliam recalled about meeting Pratt: 'We were filming the Bridge of Death sequence and needed a dramatic shot looking up at the bridge with the mountains in the distance. I stuck the camera on the edge of the cliff, but the lens wasnt wide enough. We were a long way from the road, the light was going. It was terrible. 'This guy said, Just give me a moment and in a few minutes, while we were still faffing around, he had run all the way down the mountain, forded the river, run up the other side, into the camera truck, grabbed the right lens and here it was. We stuck it on the camera and got the shot. That was the moment I fell in love with Roger.' Pratt and Gilliam would work on Brazil (1985), The Fisher King (1991) and 12 Monkeys (1995) The BSC's tribute read: 'The son of a parish vicar, the church didnt capture his career aspirations, seeing 16mm fact and faith films did. 'Roger would go on to shoot some of Gilliams cult classics, from Brazil (1985) to The Fisher King (1991) and 12 Monkeys (1995). 'Our thoughts go out to his family at this time.' Pratt, the son of a vicar grew up in the Midlands and attended Loughborough Grammar School. The British star, who was nominated for an Oscar in 1999, passed away in December, with his death confirmed by the British Society of Cinematographers this week - pictured 1995 Pratt is pictured with director Mike Leigh on the set of 1988's High Hopes Pratt worked with Tim Burton on developing the look for 1989's Batman starring Michael Keaton and Jack Nicholson His stellar work was honored with a nomination for Best Cinematography at the Oscars for The End of the Affair, starring Ralph Fiennes and Julianne Moore He also picked up BAFTA nominations in 1999 and 2000 for The End of the Affair and Chocolat starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp His first exposure to film came as he watched religious movies in church, with the 'mesmerized' star saying: 'A box full of rolls of film, projectors, screens, loudspeakers. The lights go out, the whirring of mechanicsthen real people talking, moving, laughing, and dying (I mention dying because they were about Christ and his crucifixion). He studied at Durham University in 1966 and graduated from the General Arts programme in 1969, before enrolling at the London Film School. He frequently worked with director Lord Richard Attenborough, lending his expertise to Shadowlands (1993), In Love and War (1996) and Grey Owl (1999). In 2023 Pratt was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the BSC. In a speech marking his award, Billy Williams OBE BSC said: 'Im delighted that Roger Pratt is to be honoured with the BSC lifetime achievement award this year. In focusing on the drama and the storyline [he] has created the visuals for a variety of so many memorable films. I send him my congratulations and warmest good wishes.' Kenneth Branagh, who starred in Pratt's Frankenstein in 1994, said: 'One of the few authenticated 100% top-to-toe geniuses in his field I have met. I couldnt have done it without you. Love and admiration.' Julianne Moore wrote: 'I just wanted to tell you how wonderful your work is in End of the Affair. The lighting is so textured and emotional, and honestly, I have never looked better in my life! I wish I could make all my movies with you!' After working with Robin Williams on The Fisher King in 1994, the actor wrote in a book to Pratt: Roger, if you have the smoke, Ive got the lines. Thank you again, you are incredible. An Australian woman has detailed the horrific moment her beloved pet dog was 'chased' and fallen on by a toddler while their mother watched on and smiled. Karina Irby, a Queensland-based body-positive influencer and businesswoman, was walking her 12-year-old chihuahua, named Billie, down by her local beach when a toddler began chasing and throwing sand and water at the pet. After several pleas for the child to stop, Karina said the mother did nothing to reprimand her daughter or intervene. Taking to Instagram, the 35-year-old described the incident as 'five minutes of torture'. 'Some people seriously have NO clue,' she began. 'I was down by the water with Billie, who's 12, I might add. A mother and her four-ish-year-old daughter walked by, and their kid wanted to play with Billie. Karina Irby (pictured) was walking her 12-year-old chihuahua, named Billie, down by her local beach when a toddler began chasing and throwing sand and water at the pet 'Totally fine and super cute for a minute - until the kid chased Billie into the water and FELL on top of her!!!' Karina noted that the mum did apologise on behalf of her daughter for falling on the dog, but the toddler proceeded to chase the dog even after attempts by Irby to move away. '[She] then allowed her daughter to chase us up and down the water, despite me moving further away from them. This went on for at least five minutes of torture,' she added. 'The mother let her kid not only chase us around but also THROW WATER and SAND at Billie!!! WTF!? 'I even politely told the little girl to stop throwing water and sand at her. The mum just watched on with a smile on her face. 'I literally picked Billie, apologised to her loudly that we couldn't play in the water, and took her away.' Karina said the ordeal left her 'feeling really disappointed in humanity'. 'For one, parents need to do better,' she said. 'And two, dogs are not just "dogs." She is my f**king princess, my baby girl - my absolute WORLD. Don't treat her like a "dog".' After several pleas for the child to stop, Karina said the mother did nothing to reprimand her daughter or intervene. Pictured with her two dogs Barnie (left) and Billie (right) Karina noted that the mum did apologise on behalf of her daughter for falling on the dog, but proceeded to chase the dog even after attempts to move away Karina, who considers her beloved pet dogs to be her 'babies', recently sparked outrage when she revealed the real reason she doesn't want to have children. In December, the Moana Swim founder took to Instagram with a lengthy post saying that having kids would take more from her life than she's willing to give. While she received an influx of support from her 1.1million followers, others in the comments were outraged by the body-positive influencer's reasoning. The backlash began when Karina uploaded several selfies of herself enjoying life, alongside messages she had received from fans who asked why she doesn't want children. Karina then went on to explain: 'I know I'd be a fantastic mother, but the thought of pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and having a healthy baby terrifies me. 'I fear I'd lose myselfmy identityand eventually resent my child. Raising a child in a world plagued by global warming, endless wars, and rising costs feels selfish to me.' Karina went on to say she also fears having a child who may one day grow up to not like or respect her. She added she 'wouldn't be able to run my companies anymoresomething I love and have worked so hard for', and 'fears' she would 'regret the loss of my freedom'. 'People tell me I'm missing out on the greatest gift in life, but having children would, in fact, take away my greatest gift in life'. Nicole Kidman's new age-gap romance Babygirl has been highly-talked-about thanks to a string of raunchy sex scenes. The Hollywood star, 57, stars as married company boss Romy who falls for her young intern Samuel, played by Harris Dickinson, 28, and they embark on a steamy affair. The movie, which was released in cinemas on Christmas Day, features a whole host of racy scenes, but there is one in particular that has caught viewers' attention. During one wild moment, Nicole's character Romy is seen crouching down and licking milk off a plate before Samuel then sucks it off her lip. And surprisingly, it is not the only unexpected scene involving milk as Romy also seductively drinks an entire glass of milk in a bar in another saucy moment. In the scene, Samuel has already caught the eye of Romy when they enjoy some drinks after work with their colleagues. Nicole Kidman's new age-gap romance Babygirl has been highly-talked-about, nothing more than the string of very raunchy sex scenes in the movie The movie, which was released in cinemas on Christmas Day, features a whole host of racy scenes but there is one in particular that has caught viewers' attention Romy is then presented with a glass of milk by a waiter and she realises that Samuel has ordered the drink for her, prompting her to drink the entire glass as he watches. As he walks out of the bar, Samuel then whispers to her, 'Good girl,' setting the scene for the intense power-play dynamics in their budding relationship. The wild milk scenes have been highly-talked-about online since the movie's release with viewers being sent into a frenzy over the very unexpected moments. Nicole has addressed the recurring use of milk in the film's sex scenes and told how it is symbolic of the affair itself. 'Milk and cookies and all these sensory things are used for the power struggle,' she explained in a recent interview with Hits Radio. The Australian star also revealed that she had to drink around 16 glasses of milk while filming the now-infamous bar scene. She admitted her first thought upon reading the scene was 'how many glasses of milk am I going to have to drink?', before adding: 'I think it was maybe 15 or 16.' Director Halina Reijn has also revealed what inspired the sensual milk scene, revealing something similar actually happened to her when she was in her 30s. During one wild moment, Nicole's character Romy is seen crouching down and licking milk off a plate (pictured) Harris Dickinson's character Samuel is then seen licking the milk off her lips as things heat up between the pair Surprisingly, it is not the only unexpected scene involving milk as Romy also seductively drinks an entire glass of milk in a bar in another saucy moment The director, 49, recalled going out for drinks after one of her stage performances, when a famous Belgian actor - whom she noted was 'way, way younger' than her - sent her a glass of milk. 'I drank it, and he just walked out,' she told W Magazine. 'I thought, ''How does this guy get the courage?'' I did think it was a very sensual thing to do. And I thought it was very funny.' Babygirl, which is inspired by Sharon Stone and Michael Douglas' sexual thriller Basic Instinct, has already risen to huge acclaim. The raunchy release even saw Nicole nab a prestigious nomination at the 2025 Golden Globes for Best Actress in a Drama. However, she ultimately lost out on the esteemed gong to Fernanda Torres, who took home the award for I'm Still Here at Sunday night's ceremony. Nicole's role in the steamy release is widely considered to be her most erotic yet, but the Big Little Lies star was far from fazed to take on the challenge. 'The thing that attracted me to the film is that it's in the voice of the female,' she shared on The Graham Norton Show. 'A lot of films in this genre we saw in the 90s came from the male view, but this is twisted around and told though the lens of a woman.' Nicole, 57, stars as married company boss Romy who falls for her young intern Samuel, played by Harris Dickinson, 28, and they embark on a steamy affair Babygirl, which is inspired by Sharon Stone and Michael Douglas' sexual thriller Basic Instinct, has already risen to huge acclaim and Nicole nabbed a nomination at the 2025 Golden Globes Host Graham asked her if she was hesitant about filming the sex scenes, but Nicole insisted that she was only ever excited and wanted to go beyond her 'comfort zone'. 'I loved the script, I love supporting women in the industry, and it was just really good. It is exciting and bold, and I am always looking to push out of my comfort zone,' she shared. However, the erotic scenes in Babygirl were not without their challenges as Nicole admitted she had to pause shooting the intense scenes at one point. According to The Sun, she said: 'There was an enormous amount of sharing and trust and then frustration. It's like, ''Don't touch me''. 'There were times when we were shooting where I was like, ''I don't want to orgasm any more. Don't come near me. I hate doing this''. '''I don't care if I am never touched again in my life! I'm over it''. It was so present all the time for me that it was almost like a burnout.' The cast convened with an intimacy co-ordinator for the racy scenes and Nicole believes she was able to act the racy moments because Halina was a female director. She said: 'It's the story that I wanted to be a part of, that I wanted to tell, and every part of me was committed to that. There was enormous care taken by all of us.' Nicole has not been afraid to push the boundaries during her 40-year career, famously starring in an orgy scene in the 1999 film Eyes Wide Shut with her then-husband Tom Cruise. A shopper claims they were sent to 'Costco jail' after a cashier's mistake led to accusations of theft. Ethan Pearl was forced to explain himself after a Costco worker failed to scan one of his items shen she helped him at the self-checkout. It lead other staff to accuse him of stealing when they checked his receipt as he left the store. 'Currently traumatized because the Costco cashier at self-checkout scanned all my items for me but missed one,' Pearl said in a TikTok video that has been viewed more than three million times. 'I ended up in Costco jail with security for 20 minutes.' Pearl explained that security reviewed his credit cards and surveillance footage to confirm the missing item wasn't intentionally stolen. Pearl used a self-checkout, but the scanning was done by a member of staff - as often happens at Costco. Staff increasingly do this in a bid to curb theft. Fellow Costco customers shared their own experiences at the Costco self-checkouts. 'I quit Costco when they told me I was using someone elses card. (I wasnt) I was bald from chemo and sick as hell,' one TikTok user commented. Ethan Pearl said he was left 'traumatized' after being held by security at Costco He posted a form he was given after staff confirmed he had not stolen anything 'I just walked out and never went back. So humiliating.' Another recalled: 'One time the lady at the door swore that an item in my cart wasnt scanned and held me for about 20 mins and low and behold it was on the receipt the whole time.' Pearl said he did not receive any compensation for the incident. 'A box orange dye 70-year-old did a quick Im sorry and then I said youre good and she says its not good!! This is not good! This is why our prices go up! Someones not good!' he wrote in the comments. 'It was Kirkland paper towels,' he added. Since introducing self-checkouts, the warehouse-based retailer has also seen a rise of non-members sneaking in with member cards that don't belong to them. To limit this loophole Costco staff now ask to see a form of photo ID alongside a member card at the self-checkout aisles. Costco raised its fees last year for the first time since 2017. Costco raised its fees last year for the first time since 2017 In September, standard membership rose by $5 a year, taking it from $60 to $65. The Executive level - which offers a 2 percent rebate on all Costco purchases made that year up to a total of $750 - increased by $10 to $130 a year. Costco generates around $4 billion a year from fees alone, and this figure will likely increase following the latest price hike. Meanwhile, Costco shoppers have just seen an entire section disappear from all stores. From January, the wholesale retailer has stopped stocking books all year round. The company announced the change in June, throwing in the towel in its long-running battle with Amazon over book selling. It means that after the holidays, shoppers will see the layout off stores redesigned without a dedicated book section. The retailer will now only stock books during the holiday period from September to December, with occasional sales in the remainder of the year. The announcement of the Mahila Samman Yojana by the ruling AAP doling out Rs 2100 to eligible women citizens has seen a `sudden spike in the electoral roll enrolment in the national Capital. The Election Commission (EC) has directed officials to scrutinize and verify each and every application for new voter registration to identify genuine people amid the ongoing war of words between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the manipulation of voters list. The EC said it has received an unprecedented number of 5.1 lakhs form-6 for new enrolment in the last 20 days.The EC mandates strict verification processes including field checks and personal hearings to ensure authenticity. Notably, the gender ratio also increased from 855 per 1000 to 859 to 1000, an increase of 4 percent. According to a statement from the office of Delhi Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), over 5.1 lakh applications for new voter registration were received in the last 20 days, during the revision period from October 29 to November 28, 2024, 1,35,089 new voters were registered, 69,177 names were deleted, and 83,825 corrections were made to the voter list. The number of voters registered in the national capital has 1,55,24,858 as compared to 1,53,57,529 as on October 29, 2024, marking a net increase of 1.09 percent. Of them, 83.49 lakh of them male, 71.73 lakh female and 1261 transgender. The Delhi electoral roll has witnessed a rise of 8,06,739 voters since the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. On January 22, 2024, before the Lok Sabha polls, the total number of voters in Delhi was 1,47,18,119. Unprecedented rush of form-6 for new voter registration has been noticed since 16th December, 2024; as over 5.1 lakhs form-6 have been received in Delhi since this date. This is after adding 3.08 Lakhs new voters since draft publication date 29.10.2024. This trend of unprecedented increase of form-6 and that too after 20 days of last date of receiving claims and objections as scheduled in SSR-2025 (28.11.2024), is unexpected and needs greater scrutiny, the Delhi CEO said. The Delhi CEO office said directions have been issued to all electoral registration officers to scrutinize each and every form strictly as per ECI guidelines. 100% field verification shall be done by EROs and AEROs to identify the genuine eligible persons. EROs are also conducting personal hearing in doubtful cases as per ECI guidelines. Till now, eight FIRs have been filed against 24 people for submission of false/tampered documents for obtaining voter ID. EROs have been directed to take stringent action against the persons, who are submitting false claims and fake documents to get enrolment in the electoral roll, the CEOs office said. The poll officials have denied the claims, saying that all due processes are followed for addition and deletion of voters. Both AAP and the BJP have accused each other of tampering with the voters list ahead of the Delhi Assembly Election 2025. AAP has raised concerns about the alleged removal of their supporters names from the electoral roll, claiming unauthorised deletions. On the other hand, the BJP has pointed to discrepancies in the voters list, attributing them to the presence of illegal immigrants and relocated individuals, which they believe has led to inaccurate additions. AAP had accused the BJP of filing bulk applications to delete the names of voters perceived to support the Kejriwal-led party. AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh alleged that voter names were being deleted in the New Delhi Assembly constituency, from where AAP convener and former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is contesting. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva hit back, accusing AAP leaders, including Singh, of threatening election officers. The Office of Delhi Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) published the Special Summary Revision (SSR), 2025 ahead of the assembly elections. The Special Summary Revision of electoral rolls with respect to the qualifying date of January 1, 2025, started in all 70 Assembly constituencies of NCT of Delhi with the commencement of pre-revision activities on August 20, 2024, the statement said. During the period of receiving claims & objections i.e. from 29.10.2024 to 28.11.2024, 1,35,089 form-6 (registration of new voters), 69,177 form-7 (objection to any existing entry in the electoral roll), and 83,825 Form-8 (correction of entries in existing electoral roll) were received in Delhi. Claims & Objections continue to pour in ever after 28.11.2024. All claims and objections pending as on 29.10.2024 and received during the period 29.10.2024 to 28.11.2024 were disposed by the EROs as per the scheduled date i.e. by 24.12.2024, read the EC statement. Among the constituencies, Vikaspuri recorded the largest electorate with 4,62,184 voters, while Delhi Cantonment has the smallest at 78,893. Tilak Nagar registered the highest gender ratio at 967 females per 1,000 males, whereas Okhla recorded the lowest at 731. As the electoral list, there are 2,O8 302 voters in the age group of 18-19; 2589780 in the age group of 20-29; 4174823 voters in the age group of 30-39; 3644638 in the age group of 40-49; 2462994 in the age of 50-59; 1377909 in the age of 60-69; 789190 in the age of 70-79 and 277221 in the age group of 80 and above. Meanwhile, the gender ratio has improved to 859 females per 1,000 males, and the elector-population ratio has reached 71.45, up by two points, the statement said. According to the statement, eight FIRs have been lodged against 24 individuals for submitting fake documents with the Delhi CEO, emphasising the importance of transparency and accuracy in voter registration to prevent any misuse. The revision of electoral rolls is a continuous annual exercise with addition and deletion of voters going on round the year. For conducting elections, the poll panel uses the last available updated rolls till the notification of election. In their biggest strike on security forces in Chhattisgarh in two years, Naxals blew up a vehicle using an improvised explosive device weighing 60 to 70kg, killing eight District Reserve Guard (DRG) jawans and their civilian driver in Bijapur district on Monday. Police suspect the powerful IED was planted long back along the route used by DRG, a state police unit involved in anti-insurgency operations. The explosive device went off near Ambeli village under the Kutru police station area at around 2.15 pm when DRG personnel from Dantewada district were returning in their Scorpio vehicle after an anti-Naxalite operation, Inspector General of Police (Bastar Range) Sundarraj P said. Eight DRG jawans travelling in the SUV and the driver of the vehicle were killed on the spot, located around 70km from district headquarters Bijapur, the official added. DRG draws its personnel mostly from local tribal population and ranks of surrendered Naxalites. Reinforcement was rushed to the spot and the bodies were being evacuated. A search operation was launched in the area by security forces to hunt down those responsible for the killings, the IPS officer informed. The DRG personnel targeted by Left-wing extremists were involved in an anti-Naxalite operation carried out for three days on the borders of Narayanpur, Dantewada and Bijapur districts in the Bastar region by joint teams of security personnel, the IG said. Five Naxalites were killed in the three-day-long operation and one DRG head constable also lost his life, he said. After the operation, DRG personnel from Dantewada were returning to their base in the vehicle when the attack occurred, Sundarraj added. It seems the IED used in the attack weighed 60kg to 70kg. However, forensic experts are at the spot to gather exact details, Deputy Inspector General of Police (south Bastar) Kamlochan Kashyap said. Preliminary investigation suggests the IED was old and planted long ago as wires connected to it were buried deep in the ground and grass had grown on the layer of soil over the device, he said. Kashyap admitted there were lapses which led to the tragic incident, but did not elaborate further. During an inspection of the blast site, around 150-metre-long wire connected to the trigger of the command IED was recovered, officials said. Visuals from the spot, around 400km from state capital Raipur, showed a huge crater, more than 10-feet deep, splitting the concrete road after the blast. The vehicle was completely destroyed in the explosion while dismembered bodies were seen placed on plastic sheets. A part of the SUV was seen hanging on a nearby tree. This was the biggest strike by Maoists on security forces in Chhattisgarh in the last two years and the first assault in 2025, and comes amid the Centres push to eradicate the menace of Left-wing Extremism (LWE) by March 2026. President Droupadi Murmu condoled the loss of lives in the Naxal attack and said that the country is determined to completely eradicate Naxalism. The Naxalite attack on security forces in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh is condemnable. I express my deepest condolences to the bereaved families of the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice for the security of the country. Our country is determined to completely eradicate Naxalism, Murmu said in a post on X. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Chhattisgarh Governor Ramen Deka and Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expressed grief over the death of DRG personnel and the civilian driver in the blast. I am deeply saddened by the news of the loss of DRG soldiers in the IED blast in Bijapur (Chhattisgarh). I express my deepest condolences to the families of the brave soldiers. It is impossible to express this grief in words, but I assure the sacrifice of our soldiers will not go in vain. We will end Naxalism from India by March 2026, Shah said in a post on X. Governor Deka strongly condemned the Naxal attack and termed it as a heinous crime. Chief Minister Sai said Naxalites were frustrated with the ongoing counter-insurgency operation in the Bastar region and therefore, have resorted to such cowardly acts. Martyrdom of jawans will not go in vain, he asserted. The news of the martyrdom of 8 jawans and a driver in an IED blast carried out by Naxalites in Kutru of Bijapur district is extremely sad. My condolences are with the families of the martyrs. I pray to God to rest the souls of the martyred soldiers in peace and provide strength to the bereaved families, Sai said in a statement. Chief Minister vowed to continue fight against the LWE. Naxalites are frustrated with the ongoing anti-Naxal operation in Bastar and have committed such cowardly act out of frustration. The martyrdom of the soldiers will not go in vain. Our fight to end the menace will continue strongly, he added. In the past, numerous attacks have taken place on security forces in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, comprising seven districts including Dantewada, using IEDs. In the last major assault, ten police personnel and a civilian driver were killed after Naxals blew up their vehicle, part of a convoy carrying security personnel in neighbouring Dantewada district, on April 26, 2023. Amidst surge in the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in neighbouring China, India on Monday confirmed three cases of pathogen two in Karnataka and one in Gujarat. However, the Government and health officials have assured that there is no need to panic as it is not a new pathogen, adding that regular flu shots or even the three Covid vaccine doses makes one immune to this infection. In Bengaluru, a three-month-old baby, who has been discharged, and an eight-month-old, who is recovering at a hospital, were the two cases. A two-month-old was also found infected in Ahmedabad in Gujarat with respiratory symptoms and subsequently tested positive for HMPV. All the cases have been detected in children, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said, adding that they were identified during routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens. They had no international travel history, added the ICMR, ruling out exposure from other regions or countries. Even as the number of reported cases climbed to three in the country, health experts and government officials have emphasised that there is no need for alarm, as HMPV has been circulating globally and in India for years where most of the population are immune to it. It recently gained attention after its outbreak was reported in China. Union Health Minister JP Nadda on Monday said in a video message, that there is no need to panic as health experts have clarified that HMPV is not a new virus and it was first identified in 2001 and has been circulating in the entire world since many years. Meanwhile, the governments in Karnataka, Maharashtra and Delhi have issued guidelines - similar to those followed during Covid-19 - to ensure preparedness for potential outbreak of the pathogen and other respiratory diseases. DGHS under the Union Health Ministry, Dr Atul Goel said that India is well-equipped to handle any potential increase in respiratory illnesses. Karnatakas Health Minister, Dinesh Gundu Rao, stated that the strain involved in these cases is old and poses no life-threatening risks. While there is currently no vaccine for HMPV, health officials suggest that regular flu vaccinations and COVID-19 vaccinations may provide some immunity against it. Health officials have stressed on precautions such as hand hygiene and avoiding crowded places, however no extraordinary measures like lockdowns or mandatory mask-wearing have been deemed necessary, the official said, adding that one should remain calm and maintain normal health practices without undue fear. Delhi health minister Saurabh Bharadwaj said that the officials have been asked to maintain careful tracking of any such trends in the country. They should be in touch with the union health ministry to get timely updates about the preparedness in the capital. It is important that hospitals in Delhi should be well-equipped to handle any potential increase in respiratory illness as per the advice of the union health ministry. With two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) detected in Karnataka, the states Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao on Monday said there is no need to panic as the infections that have been detected are by old virus strains that are existing in the country and they are not life-threatening. The minister who chaired a meeting of health department officials said the two infected infants are doing normal, and advised people to follow general precautionary measures. One per cent of ILI cases might be infected by HMPV as per union government and ICMR surveillance data, he further said, fatalities because of it alone are very less, unless the infected person has other comorbidities. Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Andhra Pradesh have reported that they currently have no cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and that they are monitoring the situation closely while encouraging the public to adhere to general health precautions to prevent respiratory infections. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the HMPV belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, the same family as the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It typically causes upper and lower respiratory infections, presenting symptoms similar to a common cold or flu. In a significant operation, the Crime Branch of Bhopal Police detained 68 individuals from 15 spa centers across the state capital on Saturday night. The raids revealed that several establishments were allegedly operating under police protection and were involved in immoral activities. However, all detainees were released after being served notices. The coordinated action involved 10 police teams targeting spa centers in various areas of the city. Among the 15 establishments inspected, four were found hosting unlawful activities, while 11 were closed at the time of the raid. The detained individuals included 35 women and 33 men, with three women identified as being from Nepal. A particular focus of the operation was the Green Valley Spa in the Baghsevania area, where 22 women and 18 men were apprehended, marking the largest action of the night. Investigations revealed that most of the women detained were locals, while others hailed from outside the city. Police are scrutinizing the backgrounds of all involved. The raids also exposed a concerning connection to law enforcement. A constable allegedly provided protection to the Green Valley Spa. Investigators are now analyzing the call detail records (CDRs) of both the constable and the spas operator, a woman, to establish the extent of their involvement. Following the raid, the Crime Branch handed over the accused to the respective police stations, including MP Nagar, Kamla Nagar, and Baghsevania. The role of two policemen associated with the operations of the spa centers is under suspicion, with their CDRs also under scrutiny. The raids targeted approximately 10 spa centers, uncovering five locations where sex rackets were being run under the guise of wellness services. However, operators at some establishments fled upon learning about the raids, evading immediate action. Police also visited a mall in the Misrod area, but all spa centers there were found closed. Objectionable materials were recovered during the operation, particularly from the Mikasho Family Spa and Panchkarma Center in MP Nagar. Evidence suggests that these establishments operated an organized system where customers selected profiles of women shared via WhatsApp or other social media platforms. Profiles were reportedly sent to customers by brokers, and appointments were scheduled online. Customers were charged substantial amounts, with the revenue distributed between spa operators, brokers, and the women involved. The detained women included individuals from diverse backgrounds, and authorities suspect some might be students. Police are working to verify their identities and addresses to uncover further details. ACP Mukhtar Qureshi revealed that 41 spa centers have been identified in Bhopal, with reports of immoral activities being carried out in several of them. He assured that the Crime Branch would continue to take action against establishments engaging in such illegal practices. The operation has highlighted the deep-rooted issues within the citys spa industry, including the involvement of law enforcement officials. The Green Valley Spa in Baghsevania, in particular, has come under scrutiny for allegedly being operated under police protection. Investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of the alleged complicity and to hold those responsible accountable. This crackdown underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies to address illegal activities disguised as legitimate businesses. Authorities have vowed to continue monitoring and acting against such establishments to uphold the law and protect public welfare. January 5, 2025: January 5, 2025: Three years after invading Ukraine, the Russian defense budget has turned into a monster devastating the economy. This crisis has been brewing since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. The increased defense spending and the years of economic sanctions have deformed the economy as more is spent on weapons and military needs. This displaces production of civilian goods. High casualties in Ukraine plus the millions of men who left Russia to avoid military service have caused a labor shortage. Military spending also reveals another Russian tradition, corruption in military procurement Corruption is less tolerated and more frequently punished in the civilian economy. Military production does not directly impact civilians and their lives. Now that there is more military spending, corrupt officials are getting rich while the soldiers get shoddy equipment. In the case of winter clothing procured for the soldiers, a lot of that ends up on the black market while the troops go without and the military procurement officials get rich. During the first winter of the war, Russian soldiers overcame these shortages by plundering the Ukrainian economy for cold weather clothing. By the second year of the war that source had dried up and Russian soldiers stayed warm anyway they could, or via winter clothing mailed them by their families. The cause of all this woe is the escalating expense of the war in Ukraine. The defense budget for 2023 was $75.2 billion while 2024s was $115 billion. For 2025 it will be $140 billion followed by $128 billion in 2026 and $126.6 billion in 2027. In 2023 Russia expected its 2024 government revenue to be a record $349 billion, but instead it was $450 billion. Because of the ailing economy there is less to tax and government budgets are constricting. With rising defense spending these is less left for pensions and other social welfare programs as well as maintain and expanding infrastructure, Less money for roads, canals, ports and railways contributed to the collapse of the Russian railroad system, Sanctions halted the supply of ball bearings for rail cars and now thousands of these rail cars are useless. This year may see a collapse of the railroad system, which will cause an economic collapse. The government is frantically seeking a solution to their transportation crises while pretending to Russia and the world that the situation is under control. There are plans to sustain this level of revenue while keeping Russian military spending at record level. This means more purchases of weapons and equipment from Russian suppliers as well as continuing generous death and disability payments to soldiers or their families. The impact of these payments is obvious on poor regions of Russia that have a lot of men in the military. So many local men have been killed or disabled that the families of the dead are now relatively wealthy and spending money on new cars or upgrading their housing and lifestyles in general. This is intentional because the government is desperate to avoid large-scale dissatisfaction with the war effort. The Russian defense budget is now a wartime budget. For the first time since the Soviet Union collapsed, the defense budget will be six percent of GDP and exceed spending for social welfare programs. Russia plans to maintain this higher defense spending until they win the Ukraine war. That is unlikely to happen because the Ukrainian war effort is subsidized by weapons and military equipment supplied by NATO countries. Collectively, NATO nations account for about half the global GDP. Despite the fact that NATO is far wealthier than Russia, the Russians believe the massive NATO support for Ukraine wont last as long as the Russian determination to prevail. Russia notes that NATO has 31 member states. Not all these nations agree on long-term policy or how much should be spent on continuing support for Ukraine. At the same time, NATO members agree that Ukraine should be allowed to join NATO. That can only happen when the war with Russia is over. At the moment the Ukrainian forces are better armed and equipped than the Russian invaders. That is one reason why Russian forces are largely on the defensive and suffering much higher casualties and equipment losses than the Ukrainians. By spending so much on military production and social welfare, Russia expects to maintain popular support for the war effort. The problem is that Russia does not have enough income to sustain a wartime economy. Spending too much on defense was a major reason why the Soviet Union went bankrupt and collapsed in 1991. It was later discovered that the Soviet government had inadequate financial controls and lacked a realistic financial plan. This was revealed to the world, and most Russians, after 1991. Up until 1991 Russia was spending about 15 percent of GDP on defense and not enough on more urgent matters like managing the economy prudently in order to avoid a financial collapse. Russian leaders did not believe national bankruptcy would cause the collapse of the Soviet Union. Misunderstanding or ignoring a problem wont solve that problem or eliminate the consequences. Most of the current Russian leaders consider the collapse of the Soviet Union a great tragedy. The war in Ukraine is seen as a step towards putting back together the empire the Soviet Union presided over. The 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union created 15 independent nations, including Russia and Ukraine. Most of these former Soviet Union subjects believe inept leadership by the Russian-dominated Soviet government was the cause of the problems that lead to the bankruptcy and dissolution of the Soviet Union. While many other nations still consider the Russians clever, those who live in Russia or nations that were once part of the Soviet Union are less admiring. This includes China, which regards Russian leaders as prone to making poor decisions. Publicly, the Chinese profess their admiration of and friendship with Russia. Privately, the Chinese are less admiring of the Russian leadership. China does not discuss this with the Russian government because China wants to maintain good relations with its large nuclear-armed neighbor. China has not forgotten the 1960s rumors about Russia suggesting that the United States cooperate with them in destroying China with a joint nuclear attack. While Russia fears growing Chinese military power, the Chinese fear Russia making another dumb mistake that will not benefit China. The Chinese regard Russias current military budget policies as another example of Russian self-delusion and poor policy decisions which might help Russia but will make neighboring states more wary of what Russia is going to do next. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is considered another example of bad decision making and Russia appears to have learned nothing useful from their defeats inside Ukraine. Russia is already in bad shape economically and militarily and current plans to vastly increase defense spending will make their situation worse. Thats what Russian leaders tend to do. They often find the worst decision and embrace it. AIIMS Bhopal has successfully conducted a rare and challenging surgery to remove a large adrenal tumor, known as a pheochromocytoma, from a 27-year-old male patient. The tumor, which was located behind two major blood vessels in the body - the inferior vena cava (IVC) and the aorta - made the surgery exceptionally complex. These vessels are responsible for carrying large amounts of blood to and from the heart, making their location and involvement extremely delicate. Pheochromocytomas are rare tumors that form in the adrenal glands, small organs located above the kidneys. These tumors can produce excess hormones, leading to severe symptoms such as very high blood pressure, palpitations, and sudden headaches. If untreated, such tumors can be life-threatening. In this case, the tumor was unusually large and located deep in the body, pushing against vital structures. During the operation, the medical team had to carefully navigate around the IVC and aorta to avoid damaging these vital blood vessels. Another major challenge was managing the dramatic fluctuations in blood pressure caused by the tumor itself. Pheochromocytomas release large amounts of adrenaline-like hormones, which can cause the patient's blood pressure to rise dangerously during surgery. After removal, blood pressure often drops suddenly, requiring careful monitoring. AIIMS Bhopal ED Prof Ajai Singh praised the surgical team for their outstanding expertise and collaborative efforts in handling such a rare and complex case. He said, "This surgery reflects the exceptional medical expertise and teamwork at AIIMS Bhopal. Successfully managing such a rare and challenging case strengthens our commitment to providing advanced healthcare services to the community." The surgery was performed by a multidisciplinary medical team, including Urology Surgeons Dr. Devashish Kaushal, Dr. Kumar Madhvan, Dr. Ketan Mehra and Dr Nikita Shrivastava the CTVS team comprising Dr. Yogesh Niwariya and Dr. Vikram Watti, the Anesthesia team led by Dr Vaishali, and nursing staff Priyadarshini and Uroj. The patient is now recovering well under the supervision of the medical team. Often compared with a scintillating sanitation performance by neighbouring Indorethe cleanest city in the country, Bhopals municipal efforts are proving inadequate against persisting sanitation issues, irregular waste collection, and a lack of civic responsibility. Indore, the financial nerve centre of Madhya Pradesh, has been adjudged the cleanest city in the country during six consecutive national sanitation surveys of the Swachh Bharat Mission between 2017-2023. While a call to any landline number in Indore is met with exhortations for better sanitation in the city, the municipal body in Bhopal is still struggling to rid the city of Garbage Vulnerable (GV) points. Mohammad Sohail says that his 2,000-odd square feet residential plot in the Kaziq Camp area of the old city is one such spot. He says that repeated requests have failed to stop neighbours from dumping waste at the site where he plans to build his family home. "The sleep-wake pattern is responsible. By the time people in the neighbourhood wake up, the municipal waste collection activity is already over, and people simply dump waste at any convenient location," says Sohail. Rekha Sahu, a resident of Shiv Nagar at Karond, links the irregular waste collection in her area to the problem. "Collection vehicles do not come regularly. Residents face a lot of difficulty in disposing of garbage," she laments. "This forces residents in her neighbourhood to seek alternative methods of disposing of waste, which can lead to very unhygienic conditions," she adds. Aadil Khan, a resident of Khanugaon, echoes similar concerns, saying, "People dump waste by the roadsides and at any open space." "Such practices not only create an eyesore but also pose health and environmental hazards," says Khan, whose neighbourhood stands on the banks of the Upper Lake. Sachin, a resident, states that the whole process of waste disposal is not efficient. "Mounds of waste from drains are left for days before being removed." With citizens blaming the BMC for continuing unhygienic practices in the city, Anil Barthea sanitation worker at the civic bodycomplains about the lack of civic sense that prevails in several localities. "Despite constant counselling, instructions, and even spot fines, people continue to throw both wet and dry wastes inside the garbage vehicle. Although we clean neighbourhoods thoroughly, waste just piles up within hours." "We continue to clean up as it is our job, but support from residents is crucial for changes in the sanitation scene," he reminds. Assistant Health Officer at BMC's Zone 19, Ramakant Yadav, says that problems persist despite the municipal body's move to impose spot fines on those refusing to adhere to sanitation guidelines. He says the sanitation challenge continues to remain tough mainly because residents in the city simply refuse to act responsibly. While there is no denying the robust BMC impetus on the sanitation front, ground realities in several middle-class localities in the city suggest that it may be a while before Bhopal overcomes Indore to emerge as the cleanest city in the state, and the country. Thieves broke into the house of a Radio Branch Inspector in Danish Hills View Colony, Bhopal, and escaped with gold and silver jewelry worth ?20 lakh and ?20,000 in cash. The incident occurred while the family was away at their government accommodation in Radio Colony, Bhadbhada, since December 31.The theft came to light when Inspector Narottam Chauhan and his family returned home on Saturday night. They discovered the main gate lock broken and the cupboard inside ransacked. The locker was forced open, and valuable items, including several necklaces and a jewelry box, were missing. Some discarded boxes and polythene bags were found scattered inside the house. Inspector Chauhans family immediately alerted the Kolar police, who registered an FIR around 11:30 p.m. Forensic experts inspected the crime scene, and an investigation was launched.The house, located in Danish Hills View Colony, is part of a posh residential area in Bhopal that becomes largely deserted after evening, making it an easy target for burglars. Despite the high-profile location, which includes the personal residence of BJP state president VD Sharma nearby, no CCTV footage of the crime scene has been recovered so far. Police suspect the theft took place over four days while the family was away. They are now reviewing CCTV footage from nearby cameras to trace any movements of the suspects during this period. Additional DCP Malkit Singh stated that efforts are underway to identify and apprehend the thieves. The police, in collaboration with the crime branch, are analyzing evidence and scanning CCTV footage from the vicinity. Singh expressed confidence that the culprits would soon be tracked down and brought to justice. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of even the most secure neighborhoods in Bhopal. Authorities are urging residents to take extra precautions, especially during extended absences, to avoid similar incidents. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has said that only the Guru takes us from darkness to light. The Guru identifies the infinite potential inherent in his student and nurtures his character during education. Our ancient Gurukul tradition is still relevant today. Today, many developed countries are adopting our old Gurukul tradition and educating their children. We too will have to reconnect with the same Gurukul tradition, only then will our country be able to become a world leader again. We are moving towards the holistic development of students in the state by imparting life and moral values and practical education to them inside and outside the class. By radically improving educational quality, we will make the state a model education state of the country. Teachers have a crucial role to play in this. Yadav was addressing the selected teachers departing to Singapore for an international educational tour under the STARS project on Sunday connecting virtually, from Ujjain. He said that teachers are always respectable to us, and we will make maximum use of their infinite capabilities and long experiences in the educational development and expansion of the state in creating a Vikasit Bharat and a Vikasit Madhya Pradesh. Yadav said that our history has been rich in the educational scenario. Nalanda, Takshashila, Vikramshila universities, and many other world-renowned educational institutions including Ujjains Sandipani Ashram did the nation a favour by providing high-quality education in those times. At that time, the Gurus had a vision to recognize the art skill and aptittude of their students, this was the reason that Lord Shri Ram-Lakshman and Shri Krishna also took education from their Gurus. The Chief Minister said that we want to develop the same vision of the Guru in todays teachers as well. The teachers selected for the Singapore tour should understand this opportunity well, learn new techniques of teaching and on returning, provide the benefit of those techniques to the students of the state, so that they stand out in their academic performance and character. He said that the selected teachers should learn the benefits of conducting foreign studies, as well as share their countrys goodness with the world so that various educational cultures and innovations can also be exchanged. Yadav said that the identity of the country and the state will be established in the world only with the active participation of teachers. He encouraged and wished all the teachers of the state selected for the international educational tour (to Singapore) for a successful and pleasant educational tour. School Education Minister Uday Pratap Singh flagged off the teachers foreign tour team bus from the Subhash School of Excellence Bhopal campus. School Education Minister Singh said on this occasion that our government has made many innovations for the educational development of the state. We are making efforts with great sensitivity to improve the quality of education. Teachers are the pivot of our education system. It is their teaching skills and behaviour that inspire society. All the teachers selected for foreign study will become master trainers of our state. We will utilize their expertise and characteristics in developing the educational scenario of the state. He told the selected teachers and officials to take full advantage of this historic opportunity. Try to learn more in less time, because the future of the students of the state is in the hands of the teachers. Whatever new techniques, and new skills the teachers learn, we will ensure that the students get maximum benefit from them. NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar has appealed to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to review security arrangements for public representatives and other leaders and provide them adequate police protection. In a letter written to Fadnavis on Sunday in this connection, Pawar expressed concern over some of the killers of Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of a village in Beed district, still at large nearly one month after the incident. The reaction to the brutal incident is now coming across the state and the first 'Akrosh Morcha' was organised recently in Beed where public representatives demanded the arrest of the "mastermind" of the crime, the former state CM said without naming anyone. The people's representatives and leaders across party lines are condemning the incident from public platforms and even mentioning the name of the "mastermind" and the person responsible for it, Pawar said in the letter, posted on his social media handles on Monday. Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed district, was abducted, tortured and murdered on December 9, apparently because he tried to thwart an attempt to extort money from an energy firm operating a windmill project. Police have so far arrested seven persons in the murder case. Walmik Karad, an associate of Maharashtra NCP minister Dhananjay Munde, has been arrested in the extortion case. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Crime Investigation Department (CID) is conducting a probe into the cases. Some leaders of the ruling allies BJP and NCP as well as the opposition have been demanding that Munde be dropped from the state council of ministers for a fair probe into the murder case. Pawar, in his letter to Fadnavis, said the brutal murder of Deshmukh is not the first incident in Beed as cases pertaining to murder, kidnapping and extortion were registered there in the past also, and public representatives and leaders have expressed doubts that all these are linked to each other. "Amidst this situation, the possibility of the criminals posing a threat to the lives of these public representatives cannot be ruled out," he said. "Therefore, recognising the seriousness of the matter, the chief minister has been urged through a formal memorandum to review the security arrangements for these representatives and other leaders and to provide adequate police protection to them through the state government," he said. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday paid tributes to Guru Gobind Singh on his 'Prakash Parv', saying that his life inspires everyone to follow the path of truth, service and sacrifice. The birth anniversary of the 10th Sikh guru is observed as 'Prakash Parv'. Born in Patna Sahib in 1666, Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa Panth. Addressing a gathering at DAV College here, the chief minister said Guru Gobind Singh was the son of a martyr and the father of martyred sons who also sacrificed his life for the country. Adityanath also enquired about the well-being of the children and distributed sweets to them, according to an official statement. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak and Minister of State for Agriculture Baldev Singh Aulakh were among the dignitaries present on the occasion. Adityanath said Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa Panth to end casteism, untouchability and to save the country and religion. He asked the heretic forces of that time that were obstructing the path of the country and religion to move away from the path. The glorious history of the tradition established by Sikh gurus Guru Nanak Dev, Guru Arjun Dev, Guru Teg Bahadur and Guru Gobind Singh inspires people, he added. "This year is important for us as it is the 350th martyrdom day of Guru Teg Bahadur," Adityanath said. The way the 550th 'Prakash Parv' of Guru Nanak Dev was celebrated with great enthusiasm, these events also need to be organised on a similar scale. It will help more people, including future generations, learn about history, he said. Earlier in the day, Adityanath said in a post on X, "Tribute to the great saint, tenth Guru of the Sikhs and founder of the Khalsa Panth, Guru Shri Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj on his holy birthday!" "His heroic life dedicated to the protection of religion and humanity inspires all of us to follow the path of truth, service and sacrifice," he said. President Droupadi Murmu on Monday greeted citizens on the occasion of 'Prakash Parv' of Guru Gobind Singh and hoped that his timeless teachings guide all towards a path of righteousness, peace and harmony. The birth anniversary of the 10th Sikh guru is observed as 'Prakash Parv'. Guru Gobind Singh, who established the Khalsa Panth, was born in Patna Sahib in 1666. "Greetings to all on the sacred occasion of Prakash Parv of Guru Gobind Singh Ji! His selfless devotion to well-being of humanity continues to inspire us. Guru Gobind Singh Ji always advocated for equality and justice. "May his timeless teachings guide us towards a path of righteousness, peace, and harmony," Murmu said in a post on X. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to resign as the leader of the Liberal Party this week amid internal party dissent and low public opinion ratings, according to a media report. The Globe and Mail newspaper citing sources said it is unclear when exactly Trudeau, who has been Canada's prime minister since 2015, will step down, but a resignation is expected to come before a national caucus meeting on Wednesday. One of the sources, who spoke recently to the Prime Minister, said Trudeau, 53, realises he needs to make a statement before he meets the Liberal caucus so it doesnt look like he was forced out by his own MPs. The sources said they are unsure about what the Liberal Party's national executive plans to do to replace Trudeau as leader. They said it remains unclear whether he will leave immediately or stay on as Prime Minister until a new leader is selected. The Liberal Party national executive, which decides on leadership issues, plans to meet this week, likely after the caucus session, the report said. On Friday, The Globe reported that Trudeaus advisers are looking at how he can remain Prime Minister while a new Liberal leader is selected. A source said on Sunday they believed that Trudeau would stay in his position until a new leader was chosen. The party has two options: appoint an interim leader on the recommendation of the national caucus or hold a shortened leadership contest. A leadership contest would require the Prime Minister to request that Governor-General Mary Simon prorogue Parliament, which constitutional experts say is not guaranteed, the paper said. Another source said it makes sense for Trudeau to remain as Prime Minister until a leader is chosen so he can deal with the incoming US administration of Donald Trump and his threat of 25-per-cent tariffs. A Liberal Party source said a leadership race would take at least three months, although the party constitution requests at least four months. The news of resignation comes as Trudeau's popularity continues to dwindle in Canada, which should hold an election by late October. Public opinion polls show that his party will likely be swept out of power by Pierre Poilievres Conservatives. According to Canadian pollster Angus Reid, Trudeau has a disapproval rate of around 68 per cent as of December 24. Trudeau faced a difficult few months in politics. His own party members are calling for his resignation. In September, he faced a no confidence vote in parliament that later failed, despite efforts from the Conservative Party to remove him from office. On December 16, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland announced that she was stepping down from Trudeau's cabinet, dealing a significant blow to the prime minister. Later in December, one of Trudeau's key allies, New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh, said that he planned to present a formal motion of no-confidence against him. Trudeau took over as Liberal leader in 2013. If he resigns, it would likely spur fresh calls for a quick election to put in place a stable government. January 6, 2025: Last year Ukraine established the Unmanned Systems Force or USF. Ukraine built 1.5 million drones in 2024 and a smaller number in 2025 because more long range drones were needed. This organization does not control the drones Ukrainian forces use regularly but instead develops new drone models and organizes mass production for those new models that are successful. NATO countries are producing drones and sending them to Ukraine. Drones have been an unexpected development that had a huge impact on how battles in Ukraine's current war are fought. Drones were successful because they were cheap, easily modified, and expendable. The longer range drones enable Ukraine to strike targets deep inside Russia. These attacks now include drones dropping guided bombs from one kilometer altitude. This way the bombs can glide for long distances and strike Russian targets unexpectedly. All this has been catastrophic for Russia, which denies that the Ukrainian drones are doing much damage and that Russia shoots most of them down. The truth, as revealed by satellite photos, and FPV videos released by Ukraine and some Russian soldiers shows major damage inside Russia. On the internet, WhatsApp sometimes shows these attacks in real time. Both Russian and Ukrainian forces are sending in quadcopter drones controlled by soldiers using FPV/First Person Viewing goggles to see what the day/night video camera on the drone can see. Most FPV drones carry half a kilogram of explosives, so it can instantly turn the drone into a flying bomb that can fly into a target and detonate. This is an awesome and debilitating weapon when used in large numbers over the combat zone. If a target isnt moving or requires more explosive power that the drones can supply, one of the drone operators can call in artillery, rocket, or missile fire, or even an airstrike. Larger, fixed wing drones are used for long range operations against targets over a thousand kilometers inside Russia. A major limitation to the expansion of drone operations was the need for trained drone operators. These operators need dozens of hours of training before they are able to start operating these drones, and even more hours of actual use before they are able to make the most out of the system. These small drones are able to complete their missions most of the time, whether it is a one-way attack or a reconnaissance and surveillance mission. The recon missions are usually survivable and enable the drone to be reused. All these drones are constantly performing surveillance, which means that both sides commit enough drones to maintain constant surveillance over a portion of the front line, to a depth, into enemy territory, of at least a few kilometers. This massive use of FPV-armed drones has revolutionized warfare in Ukraine and both sides are producing as many as they can. Earlier in the Ukraine War Russia used Iranian Shahed-136 drones that Iran sold for about $200,000 each. Ukraine demonstrated that you could design and build drones with similar capabilities at less than a tenth of what the Shahed-136 cost. The Iranian drone was more complex than it needed to be and even the Russians soon realized this and turned from the Shahed-136 for more capable drones they copied from Ukrainian designs or original Russian designs. Ukrainian drone proliferation began when many individual Ukrainians, or small teams of them, designed and built drones. The drones served as potential candidates for widespread use and mass production. This proliferation of designers and manufacturers led to rapid evolution of drone capabilities and uses. Those who could not keep up were less successful in combat and suffered higher losses. Each month several hundred thousand drones are built in Ukrainian factories or home workshops, Military leaders in other nations have noted this and are scrambling to equip their own forces with drones. Not having enough of these to match the number the enemy has in a portion of the front means you are at a serious disadvantage in that area. These drones are still evolving in terms of design and use and are becoming more effective and essential. One countermeasure that often works for a while is electronic jamming of the drones control signal. Drone guidance systems are constantly modified or upgraded to cope with this. Most drones have flight control software that sends drones with jammed control signals back to where they took off from to land for later use. The jammers are on the ground and can be attacked by drones programmed to home in on the jamming signal. Countermeasures can be overcome and the most popular one is to control a drone via a fiber optic cable. Despite being a successful high-tech operation, American air forces, especially the Navy and USAF, frequently have trouble adjusting to changes they do not agree with. When the Cold War ended in 1991 the air force was still largely thinking about continuing to operate as they had done in the Cold War, but the technology and tactics of warfare were changing. The post-Cold War enemy no longer consisted of large, organized forces spread over huge areas. The enemy was increasingly irregulars who were harder to spot from the air. The air force reluctantly adapted, in part because the army and CIA adopted new reconnaissance and surveillance techniques like drones and persistent surveillance. This pattern is returning as the air force reorganizes after the decade of heavy combat and big budgets the war on terror produced. Now the air force is turning its attention to a near-peer opponent in the form of a rapidly expanding and modernizing Chinese military. Unexpectedly the Ukraine War emerged first with Russia and Ukraine fighting each other. Ukrainians had the advantage of material and intellectual support from NATO countries. In the end the winner of any stage of the war was the side that was the most resourceful and innovative. This process has been present in warfare for centuries but during the last century the changes and innovations came so quickly that the process was visible. This disrupted the long-established missions each of the military services had established. Israeli forces are now using a variety of drones in combat that are similar to what the Ukrainians are using. The United States is equipping its infantry with more drones for reconnaissance and attack. American troops began using drones over twenty years ago and are now using more of them because of the heavy usage in Ukraine. NATO countries are producing drones and sending them to Ukraine. Drones have been an unexpected development that had a huge impact on how battles in the Ukraines current war are fought. Drones were successful because they were cheap, easily modified, and expendable. The same smears that enabled the terrible rape of thousands of underage English girls by predominantly Pakistani grooming gangs was used today by the former CPS director in charge of the cover-up, Keir Starmer. He, today, labelled all people concerned with the child rape crimes as far-right. Along with Labour blocking an enquiry into the cover-up of the crimes whilst under the leadership of Keir Starmer as CPS head, today, he compounded his disgraceful actions by labelling people calling for a full enquiry as right-wing sympathisers. The Prime Minister was the director of public prosecutions at the CPS between 2008 and 2013 when many of the grooming gangs were active. Keir Starmers tone in blaming the far-right and misinformation is exactly the same he utilised after the Southport stabbings, and is a well orchestrated method in smearing people who care about the victims of heinous crimes committed by ethnic groups. Another technique used by the likes of Keir Starmer was to question the credibility of the victims of the rape gangs, adding to the cover-up. The far-right does exist, but not everyone who is concerned about actions from certain ethnic groups should be tarred with the same brush. A fresh investigation into the scandal is being demanded by politicians from the Conservative and Reform parties but is being blocked by Labour to safeguard the Starmer CPS cover-up operation whilst he headed the organisation. Direct air cargo route links central China's Henan, Nordic region Xinhua) 09:26, January 06, 2025 ZHENGZHOU, Jan. 4 (Xinhua) -- An international cargo route has been officially launched between Zhengzhou, the capital of central China's Henan Province, and Billund, Denmark, marking the first direct air cargo route between Henan and the Nordic region. A B767 freighter arrived at Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport from Billund on Friday, and after loading cargo, it returned to Billund, signifying the official launch of the route. The route is operated by Maersk Air Cargo from Denmark, primarily transporting cross-border e-commerce goods and electronic products, with six flights scheduled per week. The opening of this route marks the official entry of Maersk Air into Zhengzhou's airport, expanding the air corridor from Zhengzhou to Europe into the Nordic region, according to the China Henan Aviation Group. Data shows that in 2024, Zhengzhou airport's cargo and mail throughput exceeded 800,000 tonnes, setting a historic record for annual cargo and mail volume since the airport's opening in 1997. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) January 6, 2025: Russia has abandoned its 29-ton twin engine Su-57 Felon project after only 32 prototype and pre-production aircraft were built. This was another effort to build a stealth fighter to match the American F-22 and F-35. In the 1980s Russian aircraft manufacturer Sukhoi began development of what eventually became the Su-57. Rival manufacturer MiG also developed a stealth fighter but their proposal was rejected as too little, too late. Sukhoi had another stealth fighter, the Su-75 Checkmate, in development. First flight was supposed to be in 2024 but after the Ukraine War sanctions began to damage Russias economy that date was moved to 2027. Now, with sanctions operating at full force, development of the Su-57 is also stalled. In 2021 Sukhoi introduced the Su-75, a 26-ton single engine stealth fighter nicknamed Checkmate. Sukhoi displayed a mockup of the Su-75, which is apparently the Russian answer to the similar American F-35. Su-75 is being developed by the same team that designed the Su-57, the Russian answer to the American F-22. The Su-57 proved to be a failure as an F-22 competitor. The Su-75 appears to be a desperate move to salvage something from all the money spent on developing the Su-57. The Su-75 was supposed to make its first flight in 2023 but that was continually delayed until development was suspended in 2024 before the Su-75 could make its first takeoff and test flight. This means it is doubtful that the Su-75 will enter production until several years after the Ukraine War ends. There were plans for an unmanned version, without a cockpit, and thus cheaper to build. Russia already has the S-70, a combat drone that was recently rejected because of several testing failures. Because of the Ukraine War and poor performance of existing Su-34s and 35s, it is unlikely that the Su-75 will find any export customers and the Russian air force may not be willing to buy any either. Over Ukraine, Russian combat aircraft established a record of poor performance in combat. That led to canceled export orders. This is not a sudden development and has been a problem for a long time. After the Cold War ended in 1991, the Russian government was no longer able to purchase large numbers of combat aircraft. After 1991 many state-owned firms were privatized, and a lot of defense manufacturers disappeared because they had nothing to sell that anyone wanted. Two exceptions were Sukhoi, which manufactured several Su models and MiG which only had one major product, the MiG-29 fighter, that was considered inferior to similar Sukhoi aircraft. For over twenty years the government has been desperately trying to keep the MiG company viable but failed. Until the Ukraine debacle Sukhoi still seemed viable but now Sukhoi is headed for the same fate as MiG. The MiG-29 dates from the 1980s while Sukhoi has introduced two, the Su-34 and Su-35, in the last decade. Both performed poorly in combat over Ukraine. The Su-34 is a ground support fighter-bomber while Su-35 is an air-superiority fighter. Both have been built in small quantities, about 140 each, and depend on export orders to be financially viable. Same with the Su-57 stealth fighter, which is too expensive for the Russian air force and unable to find any export customers. Problems with recent Sukhoi designs are common. An illuminating example of this is the Su-34. In 2020 the Russian Air Force received the last of the 140 Su-34 fighter-bombers they ordered. Deliveries began in 2010 but the Su-34 did not officially enter service until 2014. Four years of testing and modifying the aircraft were required to get all essential systems working. By 2014 about 60 Su-34s had been built since the first flight in 1990. Before that, in the 1980s, seven test and pre-production Su-34s had been built. The Su-34 is based on the two-seat trainer version of the Su-27K, an aircraft carrier fighter for aircraft carriers that never got built. In the 1990s the design effort shifted to developing a more complex fighter-bomber to replace the Cold War era Su-24 light bomber. While most nations using Su-24s had retired them by 2014, that was not just because of age, but because they could not afford to operate and maintain them. During the Cold War the Su-24 was the Russian answer to the American F-111 and European Tornado fighter-bombers. Introduced in the mid-1970s, it was a 43-ton swing-wing design with a crew of two and a short range of only about 600 kilometers. Su-24 carried eight tons of bombs and had good fire control and electronics for the time. Some 1,400 were built before production was halted in 1993. Few Su-24s were built after the 1990s so most still in use date from the late 1980s. Su-24s did not age well and many were retired because of that and the lack of upgrade options. Since 2000, over 30 Su-24s have been lost to accidents. This encouraged Russia and export customers to retire most of their Su-24s. In 2008, Russia began building the first production model Su-34 fighter-bombers. The 45-ton Su-34 is deliberately similar to the 36-ton American F-15E. Both are two-seat fighter-bombers but F-15E is a variant of the 31-ton F-15C fighter. By 2015 Russia still had about 300 Su-24s in service and only about 60 Su-34s. The new Su-34s did not arrive quickly enough to replace most of the elderly Su-24s. By 2020 there were still about a hundred Su-24s in the Russian air force and about fifty operational with foreign air forces. The Su-34 has a full set of defensive and offensive sensors like radars, targeting cameras, laser designators and electronic warfare gear. The Su-34 also carries eight tons of missiles and smart bombs. Russia wanted to buy enough Su-34s to replace three-hundred older Su-24s but had to settle for 140. Russia built the first twenty-four Su-34s at a cost of $36 million each, which was less than half the cost of an F-15E. Meanwhile, some of the more recently built Su-24s were upgraded as the Su-24M2 standard. Most of the Su-24s still in service are over 30 years old and many have been grounded several times because of age-related problems. The Su-34 was used a lot in Syria after 2015, where the Russians obtained useful data on how the new aircraft performed in a combat zone. Some have also shown up in Libya. In both these combat zones it was confirmed that the Su-34 was easier to maintain than the Su-24, in part because it does not use the swing-wing feature and does have modern engines and electronics that are designed and built to be more reliable and maintainable. There have been no export customers yet, in part because modern fighters can be equipped to carry out most of the tasks the Su-34 and F-15E perform. Moreover, the F-15E is still more fighter than bomber while the Su-34 is basically a well-equipped light bomber. While the Su-34 saw lots of use in combat zones, it did not have to face modern air defense systems, especially hostile jet fighters. That changed in Ukraine where the Su-34 suffered heavy losses and was often unable to operate because of enemy air defenses, or because it was too difficult for the Russian air force to adequately maintain the Su-34s. After a few months Russia decided to use its combat aircraft mainly to launch air-to-ground missiles while still flying in Russia. This was because Russia had few combat aircraft to begin with and was unable to buy or even build replacements because of sanctions. Problems with the effectiveness and reliability of Russian warplanes is nothing new but the problems got worse as the Cold War continued and the decline didnt stop with the Cold War ended. Export customers began to realize that the cheaper Russian warplanes were no bargain compared to more effective and reliable Western designs. Some of those Western designs are now coming from China, which was long a customer for Russian warplanes. That is no longer the case as China found it could build better versions of useful Russian fighters. These designs often copied the Russian originals too much and the Russians threatened repercussions, especially if China sought to export their upgraded Sukhois. In the last decade China has turned to Western designs, often using tech plundered from the Western manufacturers. A man who flicked a lit cigarette and threw a lighter at his partner has been jailed at Derry Magistrates' Court. Darragh McGrath (18) of Duncreggan Road in Derry admitted a charge of assault that occurred on November 13 last. The court was told police were called to Foyle Haven to a report of an aggressive male who was refusing to leave. Police found McGrath who was 'aggressive and abusive' and they were told he had entered the premises along with his partner and had thrown a lighter and flicked a lit cigarette at her but there had been no injuries. A defence barrister told the court his client accepted his behaviour was 'reckless'. He said the defendant was usually charged with public order offences rather than this kind of thing. Deputy District Judge Laura Ievers said this offending concerned the court as did McGrath's record for one so young. She jailed him for three months. Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. A Northern Ireland rescue team that travelled to Spain to search for a missing Belfast man has returned home after scouring 350km of land. Members of K9 Search And Rescue NI, a volunteer canine search team, travelled to Alicante to join the wide-scale operation to find 37-year-old John George. Mr George, also known as John Hardy, had been holidaying in the Spanish city and was last in touch with his family on December 14. He was reported missing four days later after he failed to board his flight home to Northern Ireland. His family believe the father-of-two is dead. Seven K9 search technicians and their Labrador retriever Rocko took part in the operation. They searched almost 1,200 acres of land, with more than 350km covered by foot, dogs and a drone. Rocko is a victim recovery and live air scenting dog and was instrumental in leading the search team. Despite thorough searches, the team did not find anything related to Mr George. Alicia Huntley, a handler for Rocko, said it was an opportunity to help the family. Ms Huntley and Rocko arrived back at Dublin Airport with colleague Gary Pullen on Sunday night. The areas we searched were really big. Some were very dense areas, some more sparse, like open wasteland, she told the PA news agency. I was working alongside Rocko, my dog, and he works the wind through scenting. It was really hard going, but we worked really well as a team, and covered a lot of distance. The dogs and us, we are trained to search for long days, so its stuff that were prepared for, thats not new to us, and we are trained to do that. It was the different types of area that was sort of newer and we had to manage the temperature. The dogs coped really, really well in the heat actually. We stayed hydrated and stopped in the shade when we needed to. It was nice to be able to apply our skills. Were trained, we do know what were doing when were searching and we applied our skills to a different place, but in reality, it looks the same as what we do and what were prepared for. For us, it was really important to be able to be there and help the family as best we could, and be able to to use our training to help them. There was a lot of family and friends out, and we saw them searching, and we worked in some areas beside them. It felt like we were able to help them and we have the extra skill set of the dogs, which makes a big difference when youre searching. Gary, a search technician and medic, said their presence gave the family a boost. He said: If it was my son or my daughter, I would want people out searching. We train every week for different types of scenarios. So it was good to put our training in place, but also show people that we can do what we are trained to do, and also to support the family. I think it was a great boost to them, and it raised their morale. Ive got to thank Iberia Airlines as well for taking Rocko out. It was logistically difficult because some of the team went out via Belfast, and we had to come via Dublin. So we need to thank them for the care they took of us. We didnt want to come back at all. Its disappointing for us (not to find anything), we want to do the job, and we want to reunite their son with them. So if they want us to come back out again, we are all volunteers and we are willing to go, and if we can get the team together, we will go. He said searching for a body is a challenge. Thats why Rocko is out. He can pick up a scent quite a way off, he added. Ryan, our team leader, liaised mostly with the family and the Spanish authorities. We are guided by him and hell collate the information and then send us to where he believes is a viable area and thats what weve done. Mr Georges brother previously made a plea for any information about his whereabouts. Darren George is in Alicante helping in the search with parents Billy and Sharon and sisters Courtney and Caitlin, along with up to 50 friends and wider family from Northern Ireland. Someone knows where John is. They need to give it up, and they need to give the location, whether its done anonymously, he said. Northern Irelands Police Ombudsman Marie Anderson has returned to work after an absence because of illness. In a statement, Mrs Anderson said she is looking forward to recommencing her role. Her office deals with complaints about the conduct of police in the region. In 2023 it emerged that West Midlands Police were examining events relating to an incident at a property linked to Mrs Anderson in Holywood, Co Down. Police Service of Northern Ireland officers went to the property at about 6.30pm on Saturday September 23 2023, after a report of a domestic incident. A man was arrested as part of the inquiry and later released pending a report to prosecutors. A file was subsequently sent to the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) and a caution issued to the man who had been arrested. West Midlands Police were then tasked with investigating further aspects of the incident. In June 2024, the Northern Ireland Assembly was told that Mrs Anderson had taken a leave of absence due to illness. In a statement on Monday, Mrs Anderson said: I am pleased to be back at work and am looking forward to recommencing my role. I would like to thank my senior staff who led the work of the office during my illness and continued to demonstrate the value of our investigations in building public confidence in independent investigation of police complaints and in our work to improve policing. In relation into the incident in September 2023, a PSNI spokesman said: There is an ongoing police investigation and it would be inappropriate to comment at this time. A PPS spokesman said: The PPS carefully considered all the available evidence on a police investigation file reporting one individual arrested in respect of an alleged domestic incident in Holywood, Co Down, in September 2023. Having applied the test for prosecution, it was determined that the evidential test was met for the offence of common assault, and that, having regard to all the circumstances, the matter could properly be dealt with by way of a caution. The caution was accepted by the reported individual in September 2024 and administered by police. All parties were informed at the time. All PPS decision-making was carried out independently, impartially and in line with the PPS code for prosecutors. A caution is a formal reprimand by police. While not a conviction, it is recorded on a persons criminal record for a period of six years for an adult. Save my User ID and Password Some subscribers prefer to save their log-in information so they do not have to enter their User ID and Password each time they visit the site. To activate this function, check the 'Save my User ID and Password' box in the log-in section. This will save the password on the computer you're using to access the site. Note: If you choose to use the log-out feature, you will lose your saved information. This means you will be required to log-in the next time you visit our site. TEL CEO: AI to dominate 70% of global semiconductor market by 2030 Tokyo Electron Limited (TEL) forecasts the global semiconductor market will surpass US$1 trillion by 2030, with AI-related semiconductors driving 70% of the growth. To seize this opportunity, TEL aims to invest JPY1.5 trillion(US$9.5 billion) in R&D by March 2029. TEL CEO Toshiki Kawai highlighted AI as a key growth driver, prompting expanded R&D to secure market leadership. Speaking to Nikkei, he emphasized 2024 as a pivotal year for AI, with rising investments in GPUs and high-bandwidth memory (HBM). Despite geopolitical risks, Kawai underscored strong semiconductor investment trends. Semiconductor equipment now accounts for 20% of the industry, double its share from a decade ago. AI-related spending is expected to grow from 30% of equipment investments in 2024 to 40% by 2025, with the global semiconductor market projected to hit US$5 trillion by 2050, according to Yahoo Finance. Market dynamics and supply chain challenges Micron CEO Sanjay Mehrotra, in a December 18, 2024 earnings call, raised the 2025 TAM for HBM from over US$25 billion to more than US$30 billion, as reported by Barron's. He highlighted NAND flash memory as crucial for AI workloads, reflecting Micron's confidence in the data center NAND market. Micron projects the HBM TAM to rise from US$16 billion in 2024 to US$64 billion by 2028 and exceed US$100 billion by 2030, according to Blocks and Files and Investors. This growth aligns with TEL's forecast that AI will dominate 70% of the semiconductor market by 2030. A Bain & Company report from September 2024 warns that rising AI computing demand is straining supply chains for data center chips, PCs, and smartphones. Coupled with geopolitical tensions, this could lead to a semiconductor shortage. Bain urges companies to diversify supply chains and secure long-term procurement agreements to avoid disruptions. Advantest CEO Doug Lefever, via the Financial Times, cautioned that slowing AI investments from US tech giants like Meta, Google, and Microsoft could disrupt semiconductor supply chains. He noted that while AI-enabled smartphone demand remains limited, it could surge with innovative applications, offsetting declines in other sectors. Geopolitical challenges and market response TEL faces mounting challenges from escalating geopolitical tensions and stricter US-Japan export controls on China, exposing the company to shifting trade policies and diplomatic conflicts. China represents over 40% of TEL's sales, according to CEPA, but export restrictions targeting China's technological advancements pose significant risks. Investment Monitor reports that China has threatened economic retaliation, further jeopardizing TEL's market access. These geopolitical dynamics have also fueled market volatility, with TEL's stock experiencing sharp declines. According to Yahoo Finance, TEL shares dropped by up to 8.3% following reports of potential US trade restrictions targeting Chinese technology. Such fluctuations highlight the vulnerability of semiconductor companies to geopolitical developments. Strategic adaptation and growth initiatives Hiroshi Kawamoto, TEL's Finance Division Officer, told Nikkei that AI-related wafer fab equipment (WFE) sales are targeted to make up 40% of revenue by March 2026. TEL plans to grow its AI business to counter slowing sales in China, according to TechNews and Statementdog. Kawamoto projects TEL's AI-related revenue to surpass JPY1 trillion next fiscal year, up from JPY275 billion in 2023. Growth is fueled by strong demand for HBM packaging and testing equipment, as well as high-value next-generation AI chips. China market adjustment and technological advancement Kawamoto noted TEL's China sales are expected to fall from 40% this fiscal year to 30% next year, with revenue declining over 10% from the JPY950 billion peak in the second quarter of 2024. The China slowdown will have minimal short-term impact on TEL's profitability, as market adjustments are built into its WFE plans. Kawamoto expects 2nm chip production equipment to contribute revenue as early as 2026. TEL is advancing its Process of Record (POR) certifications to boost market share, with progress in low-temperature etching technology for high-speed stacked NAND processing. Innovation and sustainable growth focus CEO Toshiki Kawai emphasized TEL's commitment to sustainable long-term growth over short-term expansion, leveraging AI technology to transform production processes. TEL provides 10 types of deposition and etching equipment. Kawai outlined a JPY1.5 trillion R&D investment plan through 2029, with JPY202.7 billion spent in 2024 to secure market leadership. Kawai noted that while semiconductor demand for EVs may fluctuate with economic conditions, AI remains a key growth driver, with autonomous driving and EV markets set for steady expansion. India roundup: Nvidia GPUs reportedly dominate in IndiaAI mission tender initiative Nvidia GPUs have emerged as the primary choice among bidders for the IndiaAI Mission procurement initiative, while Foxconn plans to mimic its Chinese success in India by building a mega dormitory facility in the South Asian country. Nvidia GPUs reportedly dominate in IndiaAI mission tender initiative Nvidia GPUs are emerging as the dominant choice in the government's ambitious INR100.0 billion (US$1.17 billion) IndiaAI mission. According to executives at participating companies cited by the Economic Times, among the 19 companies submitting proposals for the government's GPU tender, Nvidia leads the offerings, followed by AMD and Intel. Foxconn reportedly completes dormitory project for female workforce in Tamil Nadu Foxconn has reportedly completed a US$230 million project in Tamil Nadu to build dormitories for its predominantly female workforce, enhancing convenience and support for their staff as Foxconn commits to expanding its operations in India. Samsung targets India market leadership with new budget devices Samsung Electronics aims to reclaim its leadership position in India's smartphone market by launching affordable new products in early 2025. According to reports from Sam Mobile and SE Daily, the company will introduce the Galaxy F16 5G smartphone in India in the first quarter of 2025. The Galaxy F series specifically targets developing markets like India and Bangladesh. Indian regulator reportedly to charge Apple with anti-competitive practices The Competition Commission of India is reportedly poised to charge Apple with engaging in anti-competitive practices related to its App Store operations. This impending case draws parallels to a similar situation faced by Apple in the European Union. India's machine tool demand surges, Japanese firms seek growth as Chinese competition intensifies India's growing economy and the make-in-India initiative have spurred significant demand for machine tools in electronics, automotive, and semiconductors, prompting Japanese manufacturers to expand in India, although Chinese firms have overtaken them in market share. Weekly news roundup: STSP emerges as global chipmaking hub; US government seeks public opinion to ban Chinese-made drones These are the most-read DIGITIMES Asia stories in the week of December 30 January 3. STSP emerges as global chipmaking hub after almost 30 years of development The Southern Taiwan Science Park (STSP) has evolved over nearly three decades into a global semiconductor production hub, achieving a remarkable output increase from NT$1 trillion (approx. US$305.15 billion) in 2021 to NT$1.59 trillion in 2023, with expectations to exceed NT$2 trillion in 2024. Initially focused on optoelectronics, with companies like CMO leading the display panel industry, STSP has shifted toward semiconductor production, especially after TSMC established advanced fabs there. US government seeks public opinion to ban Chinese-made drones, targeting DJI The US government is seeking public input on proposed rules to secure the ICTS supply chain for drones, potentially limiting Chinese drones, which dominate US markets. In October 2024, DJI initiated legal action against the Defense Department over its inclusion on a list of firms purportedly linked to China's military, arguing that this designation is inaccurate and financially damaging. India's machine tool demand surges, Japanese firms seek growth as Chinese competition intensifies The Make in India initiative is showing results, with companies like Apple outsourcing iPhone production to India and Suzuki and Tata Motors boosting vehicle sales. Anticipating further growth, the JMTBA plans to debut a dedicated pavilion for Japanese manufacturers at the IMTEX 2025 exhibition in India. Firms like Brother Industries, DMG Mori, and Shibaura Machine are increasing their investments and presence in the region. Although Japanese manufacturers excel technologically, Chinese companies have grown their market share using low-cost strategies. AI and semiconductors drive global industrial growth in 2025 As 2025 begins, the demand for semiconductors, AI servers, and related components remains robust, despite geopolitical tensions and global economic challenges affecting the electronics industry. The industry is set for further growth, driven by an increased demand for smartphones and notebooks throughout the year. A significant development in 2025 will be the mass production launch using 2nm process technology by TSMC, Intel, and Samsung Electronics, providing fresh growth momentum for company revenues. European chipmakers pivot to domestic production in China STMicroelectronics (STM), NXP, and Infineon have recently announced plans to establish local chip manufacturing supply chains in China. The three European semiconductor giants are aligning their products with Chinese foundries to further enhance the localization of manufacturing, addressing Chinese customers' concerns regarding supply chain security. These companies aim to maintain their positions and interests in the Chinese market, avoiding encroachment by local competitors. CanSemi begins production, boosts analog IC output by 40,000 wafers monthly Guangzhou-based CanSemi Technology has launched production for its third-phase project, representing a CNY16.25 billion (approx. US$2.23 billion) investment. The new facility adds monthly capacity for 40,000 12-inch wafers, utilizing 18090nm technology to establish a platform tailored to industrial and automotive-grade analog IC production. The facility's output is geared toward a diverse range of products, including power devices for power electronics, servers, 5G base stations, automotive applications, signal chain chips, power management ICs, MCUs, and image sensors. TSMC talent poaching limits highlighted by Samsung exec departure Following the widely reported departure of Jing-cheng "Vic" Lin (J. C. Lin) from Samsung Electronics in December 2024, industry analysts are now assessing the impact of his brief tenure. Unlike Mong-Song Liang, whose expertise propelled Samsung's transition to 14nm processes and secured significant Apple orders, Lin's tenure produced no comparable breakthroughs. Samsung's efforts to bridge the gap with TSMC in advanced packaging remain hampered by systemic and contextual challenges. MBABANE - The stage is set for the highly anticipated Revenue Blueprint Masterclass, scheduled for Saturday, January 11, 2025, at the Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS) Auditorium. Hosted by A Peculiar People, the event promises a wealth of knowledge and actionable insights as seasoned business leaders from across sectors converge to share strategies for revenue growth and business scaling. The Revenue Blueprint Masterclass has been curated to provide established and aspiring local entrepreneurs with the tools, insights and strategies needed to turn their ideas into profit. Key speakers include Sthofeni Ginindza, Partner at African Alliance; Fikile Nkosi, Managing Director at Nedbank Eswatini; and Lucky Dlamini, Managing Director of Slomoes Corporation. These industry stalwarts will tackle topics ranging from innovative financial solutions to leveraging technology for growth. African Alliances involvement underscores its commitment to empowering Eswatinis business community with the tools and knowledge required for success in a competitive market. African Alliance is a well-established financial services group operating in several African markets, including Eswatini. Known for its innovative and tailored financial solutions, the organisation focuses on investment management, financial advisory and other services that drive economic growth in the region. In Eswatini, African Alliance is recognised for its role in supporting businesses and investors through expert guidance and access to financial instruments. As a partner in driving the countrys economic development, the organisation plays a pivotal role in fostering entrepreneurship, SME growth and strategic investments. African Alliance operates in Eswatini through several key financial services and investment initiatives: Asset Management: African Alliance offers a range of unitised (pooled) funds tailored to various investment strategies. In Eswatini, these include the Ligcebesha Fund, Lilangeni Fund, Managed Fund, Portfolio Fund, and Umnotfo Fund, each designed to meet specific investor needs. Stockbroking Services: Through its subsidiary, African Alliance Swaziland Limited, the firm provides stockbroking services, facilitating investment opportunities within the Eswatini Stock Exchange (ESE). Private Equity and Advisory Services: African Alliance engages in private equity investments and offers advisory services, contributing to the growth of local businesses and the broader economy. Commitment Meanwhile, Nedbank Eswatinis involvement in this event underscores the banks commitment to supporting the local business community. Nedbank Eswatini plays a pivotal role in enhancing the business sector, with a particular focus on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Their initiatives include: SME Banking Solutions: Nedbank Eswatini offers a comprehensive suite of banking services tailored for SMEs, encompassing day-to-day banking, cash flow management, working capital funding, and medium- to long-term financing options. These services are designed to assist entrepreneurs in effectively managing and expanding their businesses. Innovative Payment Solutions: Recognising the need for accessible payment methods, Nedbank Eswatini has introduced mobile payment products that enable small businesses to accept card payments anytime and anywhere. This innovation facilitates smoother transactions and broadens market reach for SMEs. Loan Guarantee Facilities: In collaboration with partners like USAID, Nedbank Eswatini has participated in loan guarantee programs aimed at supporting SMEs. These initiatives provide financial backing, making it easier for small businesses to secure necessary funding for growth and operations. Corporate Social Investment (CSI): Demonstrating a commitment to community development, Nedbank Eswatini invested E1.2 million in CSI initiatives in 2023, with a portion directed towards supporting SMEs. This investment underscores the banks dedication to fostering entrepreneurship and economic development within the country. Through these targeted efforts, Nedbank Eswatini significantly contributes to the empowerment and growth of SMEs, thereby strengthening the overall business landscape in Eswatini. Meanwhile, Slomoes Corporation, established in 2010, is a prominent information and communication technology (ICT) company headquartered in Mbabane, Eswatini. The company offers a comprehensive range of services designed to meet the diverse technological needs of businesses in the region. Services Offered: Networking Solutions: Slomoes Corporation provides services such as internet connectivity, VOIP and PBX solutions, server solutions, and VPN solutions, ensuring robust and secure communication infrastructures for businesses. Security Systems: The company specialises in access control systems, CCTV security, boom gates and barrier spikes, and computer security, helping organizations safeguard their physical and digital assets. IT Consulting: Offering custom software development, web application development, ERP solutions, and digital transformation services, Slomoes Corporation assists businesses in optimizing their operations through tailored technological solutions. Support and Maintenance: The company provides desktop setup and support, server setup and support, and printer setup and support, ensuring seamless operation of IT infrastructure for their clients. Trustworthy Slomoes Corporation has built a diverse client base through consistent, trustworthy service, focusing on business optimization and delivering return on investment (ROI) for its partners. The company collaborates with renowned technology partners, including HP, Microsoft, Canon, and Samsung, to deliver high-quality solutions. The event will be directed by Fisiwe Vilane, a marketing veteran with nearly 20 years of experience spanning FMCG and telecommunications. Her expertise in customer management and digital marketing promises to add depth to the proceedings. Other notable contributors include; Paula Marques, Managing Director of Emlembe Beverages and Co-Founder of Eswatini Retail Solutions. Thulisile Dladla-Dlamini, Vice Chairperson of Eswatini Citizen Economic Empowerment and President of the Business Federation of Eswatini will also be part of the speakers. Vusumutiwendvodza Matsebula, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Eswatini Public Procurement Regulatory Agency (ESPPRA) and an advocate for SME development, Mluleki Dlamini, SME Director in the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Trade will share insights during the event. Ignion showcases its revolutionary Virtual Antenna technology and the Oxion platform at CES 2025 Las Vegas, January 7, 2025 - Ignion, a global leader in antenna technology, joins CES 2025 as one of the select exhibitors invited by the European Innovation Council (EIC). Dedicated to simplifying IoT device connectivity, Ignion offers a portfolio of off-the-shelf Virtual Antenna components and its AI-powered platform, Oxion, making antenna integration accessible to RF professionals and novices alike. Simplifying connectivity for a smarter future Ignions Virun Antenna technology transforms integration by leveraging the PCS gourd plane as a radiating element. This innovative approach ensures unmatched adaptability for multi-band, multi-radio applications across industries such as automotive, asset tracking, and industrial IoT. Complementing this technology is Oxion Ignion's Al/ML-driven design platform that enables engineers to finalize their design in seconds. With over 1.000 companies registered, Oxion is revolutionising the RE design landscape, reducing tims-to-market and eliminating deign uncertainties. Pioneering Antenna solution across industries Ignion offers e simplified port of issue's virtual Antenna products designed to cater to diverse lot nonse: -NANO mKTEND: The smallest solution for space-constrained lot devices. -ONE mXTEND: Ideal for GNSS, BLE and unlicensed spectrum applications. -DUO mXTEND: Dual-port antenna enabling combo's of GNSS, Bluetooth and more. -RUN mXTEND: A cost-efficient multiband and sub-GHz solution for industrial IoT. -TRIO mXTEND: Multiband powerhouse enabling high performance for cellular IoT. -ALL mXTEND: Boosting cellular IoT performance in narrow device form factors. -OMNIA mXTEND: The ultimate triple-radio component for Cellular, GNSS, and Wi-Fi/BLE. These chip antenna components are compatible with any IoT device, irrespective of frequency, size, or form factor, simplifying manufacturing processes and accelerating time-to-market. 2024 achievements driving growth Ignion's significant milestones in 2024 underscore its transformative role in the loT sector: -Revenue Growth: Achieved a 50% increase in revenue, cementing its growth trajectory. -Devices Deployed: Shipped double the volume of Virtual Antenna products, powering over 60 million IT devices globally. -Oxion Platform: Over 1,000 companies now leverage Oxion, demonstrating its effectiveness in reducing RF complexity. -AI & ML Contributions: Thanks to Oxion, Al and ML drove 95% of the more than 3,000 designs executed in 2024, enhancing design efficiency. -Sustainability and Scalability: The rapid adoption of Virtual Antenna technology demonstrates its scalability across industries while maintaining cost-effective and environmentally friendly practices. Join the revolution at CES 2025 Visit Ignion at booth G-60633, Venetian Expo - Eureka Park, Las Vegas Convention Center, to experience the future of IoT connectivity. Discover how Ignion empowers innovation with seamless, scalable, and sustainable solutions. 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Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe The relationship between Ireland and Canada deepened under Justin Trudeaus leadership, the Tanaiste has said. Micheal Martin described Mr Trudeau as a true friend of Ireland after the Canadian prime minister announced on Monday his intention to resign after nine years in office. Mr Trudeau said internal battles meant he cannot be the best option for the Liberal Party in the next election. Reacting to the news, Mr Martin thanked Mr Trudeau for his time in office and paid tribute to him. Prime Minister Trudeau has made a significant contribution to the global stage, always taking a strong multilateral perspective to tackling the challenges of our time and working for a more just and sustainable world, he said in a statement. Under his leadership, the relationship between Ireland and Canada has deepened. His support for the Irish-Canadian community, based on our shared values and historical and cultural bonds, has strengthened the friendship between our two countries. PM Trudeaus commitment to the partnership between Ireland and Canada was clear to me during my meeting with him in Toronto in March of last year, and during his visit to Ireland in 2017. I extend my best wishes to Prime Minister Trudeau, a true friend of Ireland, in his future endeavours. Earlier, former taoiseach Leo Varadkar praised Mr Trudeaus tenure in power and said that when his legacy is assessed he will be seen as one of the great Canadian prime ministers. He told RTE Radio: I do think he was a prime minister who achieved a lot for Canada. You mentioned Donald Trump, he dealt with him for four years, Donald Trump was going to get rid of Nafta, get rid of the trade agreement between the USA, Canada and Mexico, and he managed to negotiate a new agreement called the US-NCA which is pretty much the same thing. I think that was quite an achievement. He was very good on climate, had the courage to bring in a carbon tax and bring Canada into the Paris accords, and bear in mind, theres a really strong lobby in Canada oil industry, gas industry, all of that. Brought in gun control, something politicians south of the US-Canada border have not been successful at doing. Brought in a Canadian system of child benefit which I think has made a difference in the lives of children and families and also improved access to affordable childcare and healthcare. He acknowledged the problems that Canada faces, but said they were similar to other Western countries challenges: the cost of living, housing shortages and migration. He added: But I think when you look at the broad sweep of what he has achieved over nine years, it is significant and I think he can be proud of what he has achieved. After Mr Varadkar first became taoiseach in 2017, Mr Trudeau was the first world leader to visit Ireland under his tenure and Canada was the first country Mr Varadkar paid an official visit to in the role. Mr Varadkar announced his resignation in March, when he said being taoiseach had been the most fulfilling time of his life but said he no longer felt he was the best person for the job. Asked about the similarities between Mr Trudeaus exit and his own, he said that Fine Gael was not as far behind in the polls as the Canadian Liberals. He said: I remember one prime minister, (New Zealands) Jacinda Ardern, stepped down after six years, I remember her saying to me once, if youre a prime minister, if youre a head of government, theres only three ways you go: you die, you lose an election or you resign, and if you resign its either by choice or by force. 2024 has seen a record sale of Dundalk Shop Local Gift Vouchers with 2.5 million sales alone, as part of an initiative to help local businesses. Pat McCormick, President of Dundalk Chamber has announced that this has brought total sales close to 10 million since the initiative first launched over nine years ago. This initiative was set up to help keep money and protect local jobs within the local economy. The Chamber's plan is to grow sales even more in 2025! President McCormick said. President McCormick has said that this was a huge effort put in by the Chamber to help local retail and the scheme has given local retailers and businesses a welcome boost. These sales would not have happened if it has not been for the good will of the business community who see the value in keeping money in the locality. Stopping the flow of money from the town has been our priority, Mr McCormick added. The Dundalk Chamber President thanked the business community of Dundalk for getting behind this scheme and buying the vouchers for their staff for Christmas. He also thanked members of the public who bought the vouchers and kept it local this Christmas. Paddy Malone, PRO of Dundalk Chamber, said the vouchers are a "gift of choice as they can be spent in Toy Shops, Supermarkets, Restaurants, Hair Salons, Gift Stores, Gyms, Beautician, Clothes shops, and much more- you will be amazed with the selection of businesses now redeeming them which includes over 330 shops all around Dundalk and surrounding areas. READ NEXT: SNOWED IN: Gardai issue snow alert amid 'treacherous road conditions' following crash The vouchers now come in a 5 denomination as well as 10, 20 and 50s. They are an ideal gift all year round for Birthdays, Weddings, Communions, Confirmations, Competitions, Retirements and staff rewards," Mr Malone added. The beauty of these vouchers is that they do not expire, and the shops get the full amount back. They do not lose value over time, Mr Malone said. People can buy the vouchers in: Grants in St, Michael Smyths in Francis St Central News Clanbrassil St, Centra Blackrock Sheelans in Riverstown Finnegans in Louth Village Flanagans Mace on the Dublin Rd. Victorys Centra in Dunleer Valentines Centra in Carlingford and Lush Barrys Shop Grange Dundalk Credit Union Market St The Ramparts To purchase a Dundalk Shop Local Gift Voucher: Online on www.shoplocaldundalk.ie - there is no charge for delivery. delivery. Directly from the Dundalk Chamber of Commerce Office by calling Brenda on Tel: 042 9336343 or email accounts@dundalk.ie. To check out the full list of outlets who are redeeming the Shop Local Gift Vouchers visit https://shoplocaldundalk.ie. Dundalk has plenty to celebrate in the latest Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) survey, soaring ten places to rank 20th out of 40 towns and cities and earning the coveted Clean to European Norms statusa dramatic turnaround from last years results. With just one heavily littered site, the town moved up by ten places when compared with the last survey result in June 2024 representing a significant improvement compared to this time last year when Dundalk was ranked 39th and deemed to be littered. There were five top ranking sites, and the remainder were moderately littered. Examples of top ranking sites included the approach routes, Michael McNeela Riverside Walkway and Clanbrassil Street the latter was described as a freshly presented town centre environment with all elements in good order. Established in 1996 by businessman Dr Tom Cavanagh, IBAL is an alliance of companies sharing a belief that continued economic prosperity notably in the areas of tourism, food and direct foreign investment is contingent on a clean, litter-free environment. In addition, IBAL believes all citizens have the right to a clean living environment. Since 2002, Irish Business Against Litter has commissioned An Taisce to carry out litter surveys of our main towns and cities according to international standards. The towns and cities are then ranked in a league table format. The An Taisce report for Dundalk gave verdicts on ten different locations in the town, with the top five receiving a Grade A, three a Grade B+, one Grade B and one Grade C. The verdicts on each of the ten, ranking from A to D with An Taisces comments on each, were as follows: Castletown River & Bank: Grade C While there appeared to be a slight improvement in the litter levels, they were still high levels of a wide variety of food related and other items, e.g. newspapers / miscellaneous items. There was a mix of both recent and long-lie items. Unless addressed, this is likely to deteriorate and attract further items. Michael McNeela Riverside Walkway: Grade A. A lovely riverside environment with freshly cut grasslands, clean pavements, PE equipment and tree planting. There was a complete absence of litter throughout the area surveyed. Clothes Bank, Newry Road: Grade B. Not much effort is required for this small facility to get the top litter grade. Discarded clothing and plastic bags took away from an otherwise well presented facility. There was no dumping to the rear of the facility, as frequently happens. M1 & N52 from Dublin direction: Grade A. This route creates a very positive first impression of Dundalk. It was an exceptionally freshly presented route with road surface / markings / signage in very good order. There were no visible litter issues. Castletown Road: Grade A. Another approach route into Dundalk, which was very much deserving of the top litter grade. The residential stretch of the road was certainly in very good order. Tesco: Grade B+. Generally, this was a very well presented and maintained site with nicely landscaped area, with seating beside the water feature. Much of the area was very good with regards to litter, but the litter grade was brought down by some in the loading bay and the water feature. Clanbrassil Street: Grade A. The overall impression created along this street was a very fresh and clean one with attractive paving / large planter boxes / outdoor seating etc used to good effect. The outdoor dining areas were clear of litter. Small vape stickers were on litter bins. The Longwalk Shopping Centre: Grade B+. This is another site which just missed the top litter grade. A more thorough approach to cleaning around the base of the hedges / grass verges could easily address this. Signage / paving / litter bins / etc were in good order. Recycle Facility at Tesco: Grade B+. The glass / can units were in good condition and the overall impression to the front was a positive one. It was the items to the rear of the units which brought down the overall litter grade. Carrickmacross Approach Road: Grade A. There were no litter issues along this route which passes through some attractive red brick buildings / terraced houses. Nationally, overall litter levels were on a par with 12 months ago. In all, 60% of the towns and cities surveyed were deemed clean. 2024 saw a further fall in the number of sites within cities and towns that were deemed litter blackspots, which suggests that local authorities were generally more effective in tackling urban dumping and in addressing sites that IBAL had previously highlighted. The survey also revealed a near-50% fall in the prevalence of plastic bottles and cans in the 500+ sites monitored since the Deposit Return Scheme was introduced last year. We are definitely seeing cans and bottles disappear from our streets, which is very welcome not only are they unsightly, but the bottles contribute to the very real problem of plastic pollution. Read Next: Community service for man who attacked a stranger in a Dundalk takeaway However, it is clear from our survey that people continue to discard a wide range of litter types with flagrant disregard for their surroundings, says IBALs Conor Horgan. Sweet wrappers and fast-food wrappers were the most common litter types, ahead of plastic bags and coffee cups, which were present in over 20% of sites. The DRS was one of a number of structural measures broached by the last government as part of its environmental agenda, with knock-on benefits in terms of litter. A ban on disposable vapes and a coffee cup levy were others. The need for such measures is evident in the stubbornly low penetration levels of refillable coffee cups and the proliferation of highly damaging vape litter, which cannot be recycled. If we are to see sustainable improvement nationwide, it is important that the incoming regime maintain the momentum on anti-litter legislation. Dundalk Simon Community has said that the time to tackle homelessness is now, following the release last Friday of the latest homeless figures by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, which show that the number of homeless people in Louth and the North East region rose yet again in November. 273 adults accessed local authority managed emergency accommodation during the week of 18-24 November 2024 in the North East region, with 242 of them in Louth. This is up from 256 in October in the North East, which included 235 Louth. The North East region comprises Louth, Monaghan and Cavan. 12 people were recorded as homeless in Monaghan and 19 in Cavan. Of the 273 adults in the North East region, 140 were male and 133 were female. 46 were aged 18-24 years old; 144 aged 25-44 years old; 75 aged 45-64 years old; and eight of the people were aged 65 and over - up from six in October. 154 were Irish citizens; 60 were EEA/UK citizens; and 59 were non-EEA citizens. 69 families with 152 children were also recorded as homeless in the North East region in November. While it is down one on the 70 families recorded in October, the number of homeless children has increased by two. In a statement on Friday, Catherine Kenny, CEO of Dundalk Simon Community, said that it is imperative that solving the homelessness crisis remains at the top of the political agenda, and pointed to the fact that the latest government figures do not account for those rough sleeping, individuals in domestic violence shelters, refugees, or asylum seekers on our streets. These figures also exclude those in hidden homelessness: people sleeping in cars, staying with friends, on sofas, or in unsuitable conditions. Ms Kenny said that Between the election campaign and the government formation talks, our politicians have spent the last couple of months outlining what they see as the best way forward for our country. While we have listened to numerous promises, a simple fact remains: there are now over 15,000 people in emergency accommodation across the country, a number previously thought inconceivable. As each number continues to shatter the record made by the last, the term crisis begins to lose all meaning. The time for political debate is over, Kenny added. The incoming government must act decisively and urgently to protect the most vulnerable in our society. Words are not enoughnow is the time for tangible action. With a new government taking shape, there is an opportunity for bold action. Preventative measures are key to stopping the flow of individuals and families into homelessness, while increasing the stock of social and affordable housing is essential to ensure homeownership is accessible to all, regardless of income. Without urgent, coordinated action, this crisis will continue to spiral. Dundalk Simon said it is calling on the incoming government to take a comprehensive, interdepartmental approach in addressing homelessness. It added that the future coalition must ensure that cross-government cooperation is a reality in order to really improve the lives of those experiencing homelessness in Ireland. Nationally, 10,541 adults and 4,658 children were recorded as homeless in November, giving a total of 15,199 homeless people, up from 14,966 in October and another record high number of homeless people in the State. Commenting last Friday on Novembers Homeless report, David Carroll, Chief Executive of Depaul, called on the incoming government to take radical action as we witness never before seen homelessness numbers of 15,199, including 2,168 families, now accessing local authority managed emergency accommodation. Mr Carroll said that: Todays publication lays bare the heart breaking reality that thousands of children, families and individuals are now experiencing homelessness in Ireland. The obvious truth is the housing market is not working for those most vulnerable, and we have to draw a line in the sand on what is acceptable and reverse the trend as we begin a new year. We would ask that all social housing being delivered in the first six months of 2025 must be prioritised for those families stuck in temporary accommodation. The incoming Government must give hope to those more than 15,000 people languishing in temporary accommodation, many who have been there for over a year or more and there is no coherent housing plan for those in Direct provision who have permission to remain in Ireland. Mr Carroll added: Housing is the most basic and fundamental need yet a large number of people in this country do not have a secure, affordable, decent place to call home. Something has to change. MBABANE A 28-year-old man of Mozambique was brutally attacked and bitten to death by a hippopotamus along the banks of the Nkomati River at Maguga. The incident happened on Friday morning while the man was trying to cross the river. According to a member of the community police of Maguga, the deceased earned a living through farming in the bushes along the river banks. He narrated that the deceased usually charged his phone, together with that of his friend and fellow countryman, at a homestead across the river. On the fateful day, according to the community police member, the deceased was from fetching the cellphones when he was attacked by the hippo. Parts Judging from the sight of his lifeless body, the attack was brutal because some parts of his body, like the legs, were ripped off and his upper body was separated from his lower body. The animal was obviously there for a kill, he said. Over five months ago, this publication reported that a 71-year-old fisherman was attacked and killed by a hippo at Sivunga Dam, Mavalela in the Lubombo Region. The dam is used to irrigate sugar cane fields belonging to Mavalela Farmers Association and Ubombo Sugar Limited. At the time, community members said they suspected that the hippo had a calf; hence it was agitated when it spotted the elderly man.Meanwhile, a 20-year-old man of Phophonyane in the Hhohho Region reported that on Saturday at 9:30am, a teenager (16) drowned in a dam while fetching water at Phophonyane (Lawuba). Meanwhile, tipping the scales at 8 000 pounds at most, the hippo is the heaviest land animal after the elephant, according to Live Science. Herbivores The site reveals that hippos seek refuge from the heat in water during the day and at night they come ashore to feed on short soft grasses and fallen fruit. Hippos are herbivores and mainly feed on short grass. This is the common short grass found in the Savannah game parks. Hippos feed on the same short grass that other herbivores like zebras, Uganda mobs and buffaloes feed on. Hippos are known for their aggressive and dangerous behaviour. In an encounter with a hippo, a human has an 86.7 per cent chance of fatality. Because of their large size and weight, hippos are not as fast as other animals and will often rely on aggression as a primary defence mechanism, reads information from Live Science. News that pharmaceutical company MSD Ireland has acquired the WuXi Vaccines manufacturing facility in Dundalk has been welcomed by Louth TDs Paula Butterly and Erin McGreehan. Fine Gael TD, Paula Butterly told the Dundalk Democrat that this significant development represents an investment of over 500 million and the creation of 150 additional jobs at the Dundalk site. The state-of-the-art Dundalk facility, spanning over 15,000 square meters, currently employs approximately 200 professionals. It is equipped to deliver global vaccine manufacturing, including drug substance and product manufacturing, as well as quality control labs. Deputy Butterly believes that with this acquisition, MSD is reinforcing its commitment to Ireland, where it already employs over 3,000 people across eight locations nationwide. This is very welcomed news for Dundalk and County Louth, said Deputy Butterly. MSDs decision to invest in Dundalk demonstrates a strong vote of confidence in our talented workforce and the potential of our region. This acquisition not only secures current employment but ensures future growth and stability in our local economy. The news comes as part of MSDs broader expansion in Ireland, which includes plans to create 1,000 jobs across counties Carlow, Cork, Dublin, Louth, Meath, and Tipperary over the next year. This follows previous investments totalling 1 billion in Carlow and Dunboyne last year, bringing MSDs total investment in Ireland to 3 billion over the past three years. The Fine Gael TD continued: The announcement highlights the immense opportunities available to us in Louth, placing our county at the centre of a thriving pharmaceutical and biopharma sector. Its a clear signal of continued growth and investment in the region, and I look forward to working closely with MSD to ensure its success, Deputy Butterly added. The official handover process for the Dundalk facility is set to be completed in the first half of 2025, marking the beginning of an exciting chapter for the region, Deputy Butterly further added. Fianna Fail TD, Erin McGreehan, also welcomed the acquisition of WuXi's Dundalk manufacturing facility by MSD Ireland, saying that it is a vote of confidence in Louth and will bring jobs and investment to the Dundalk region. Deputy McGreehan told the Dundalk Democrat that, this announcement is hugely welcome and will provide a real boost to the economy in Dundalk and indeed across County Louth. Deputy McGreehan continued: MSD Ireland's acquisition will include the creation of 150 additional jobs as part of an overall increase of 1,000 positions across its Irish operations in the coming years, which means further positive growth for industry in Louth. This acquisition and investment is a huge vote of confidence that is testament to our county and its potential. The Fianna Fail TD added, I look forward to working with MSD Ireland on their expansion in Louth, where their newly acquired Dundalk site focuses on drug substance manufacturing, drug product manufacturing and quality control labs for the supply of vaccine products for the global market." Starting their latest exhibition program, the Ayala Museum in cooperation with the Japan-Foundation Manila will have its I Love Kusama Exhibit at its Ground Floor Gallery and Third Floor Glass Lane beginning 16 July, 2013. I Love Kusama features the artworks of Yayoi Kusama and the collection owned by Lito and Kim Camacho, one of the leading collectors of Kusama. Collectors Series, through curated thematic exhibitions, aims to expand the understanding and appreciation of local and international art by providing the opportunity to view artworks that are usually not seen in public, especially a body of work of a single artist whom a collector admires. Yayoi Kusama, born in Japan, 1929, is one of the leading and most influential figures of the avant-garde scene and is credited to be an important precursor of various art movements which took shape between the 1950s and 60s, namely Minimalism, Feminism and Pop Art. Kusama remains active and relevant at 84, as attested by her works being one of the main highlights of the recently concluded ArtBasel HK. Notable Kusama installations include her immersive infinity mirror rooms that have been featured in institutions like the Whitney Museum of American Art and Tate Modern, and her iconic spotted pumpkin sculptures seen on both indoor and outdoor exhibitions in different countries. In 2011, Kusama also worked with fashion designer Marc Jacobs for a line of whimsical products and corresponding window displays for Louis Vuitton. With the assistance of the Camachos and the Japan Foundation-Manila, and the guidance of Ota Fine Arts, Yayoi Kusama Studio, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the exhibition at Ayala Museum will be the first major Yayoi Kusama show in the Philippines. I Love Kusama is held in celebration of the 40th Year of the ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation and the Philippines-Japan Friendship Month. The exhibition will be on view until 1 September, 2013. As part of its education component, Ayala Museum has invited Akira Tatehata, one of the worlds leading experts on Kusama and the curator the Japanese Pavilion during the 45th Venice Biennale in 1993 (when Kusama represented the country) for a one-time lecture on 10 August, 2013, 4PM, Ayala Museum Ground Floor Lobby. For more information, call 757-7117 to 21, visit www.ayalamuseum.org, or email museum_inquiry@ayalamuseum.org. This is one exhibit you should not miss at Ayala Museum! Stay gorgeous everyone! Do you know what is the national dish of the Philippines? While it is not official, we all know the answer, Adobo. From Batanes to Tawi-Tawi, every Filipino family knows Adobo and loves Adobo eats Adobo. Chicken, pork, Kang Kong, Kuhl etc. Pinky have a version of Adobo! Hence, the #AdoboMovement was born, to make Adobo the Official National Dish! The Adobo Movement s a movement to get at least 500,000 signatures to support House Bill 3926 to officially inistate Adobo as the National Dish of the Philippines. To be a part of this worthy cause, log on to https://www.change.org/p/philippine-house-of-representatives-make-adobo-the-official-national-dish-of-the-philippines and click on the sign petition button. The movement was launched last June 11, 2015 at the moment only 110 have signed the call. Lets make Adobo the official dish of the Philippines! Support the #AdoboMovement! Stay gorgeous everyone! How would you like to Save the Children from hunger and poverty and get to see yourself featured in a billboard in EDSA for just Php1,000 ? Such a small price to pay for such a big dream right? But yes it is possible. Save the Children Philippines launched their Lahat Dapat Chirstmas 2018 campaign , the biggest and yet ambitious one they had ever against hunger and malnutrition in the country. Save the Children delivers progress for Filipino children which gives them better education and easier access to health Care, supports them during emergencies while also educating communities on disaster preparedness. How to Save the Children and be featured in a billboard in EDSA ? The #LahatDapat is a very simple, fun, fashionable campaign that involves you purchasing the fab bandana . This bandana can be bought at www.savethechildren.org.oh/lahatdapat for Php500 only. But if you would like to have your photo be flashed on the biggest LED billboard in the country, located at EDSA. Donate or purchase the bandana for Php1,000. There are six ways to get yourself on a billboard in EDSA and two other LED billboard around Metro Manila : Purchase the bandana at an activation booth scattered around the country for Php1,000. Booth presence Uponwill be announced at Save THE Children Philippines Facebook page. Upon purchase your photo will be taken and this photo will be used for the LED billboard by Nyxsys in EDSA Orensole or Paragon or C5 near Market Market. The first 300 to purchase will also get a chance to see their photos on AdMovPh Technologies LED screens inside Grab card. Save the Children will also pick individuals to win the Most Unique Photo wearing the bandana and the winner will be featured in the billboards mentioned above. There are five other contest you can join to be in the billboard, Most Stylish Photo, Photo taken farthests away from Manila, Biggest Groupie ,Most Popular Photo and Best Themed Photo. All photo submissions for the contest should all wear the bandana. Photo submissions are only accepted until December 7,2018 as photos will be displayed in the LED billboards from December 16 -23, 2018 only. Schools and companies can also participate in the photo contest and get feautured in the billboards. Categories are Most Creative, Highest Amount Raised, and Most Number of Employee-participant . However, if you do not wish to be in the Billboards you can still purchase the Bandana until the end of the #LahatDapat campaign promo period as beneficiary children will still be able to benefit from your help. There are hundreds ways to wear the bandana and we encourage everyone who bought it wear it loud and proud. Funds raised fro. the #LahatDapat campaign will go to the nutrition and feeding program. A sample project is the Project NURTURE Nutrition among Urban Poor Through Unified Response aims to reduce the number of fesths of children under 5 years old in identified areas in Navotsd City as pilot area. The project implements specific and nutritional sensitive intervention focusing on the first 1,000 days of live to prevent stunting and wasting among children unter 5 years old and improve maternal nutrition, particularly among pregnant and lactating mothers. This same program will be implemented in the target areas country . There are 3.3 million children in the country who are stuntrf and 800,000 more are malnourished . The Philippines ranked 9th among 10 countries in the world with the worsts case of stunting and malnutrition children. Please visit savethechilren.org.ph/lahatdapat to purchase the limited edition #lahatdapat bandana and Save the Children and Get yourself featured in a Billboard in EDSA ! Stay gorgeous everyone! Are you looking for a unique and exciting destination for your next vacation? Look no further than the Mediterranean island of Cyprus. With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and historical attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are 4 reasons why you should visit Cyprus on your next getaway. The Weather is Perfect When it comes to the perfect vacation destination, the weather can make or break the experience. If youre looking for a place with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures, look no further than Cyprus. This Mediterranean paradise offers up some of the best weather in the world. From mid-March to mid-November, the average temperature ranges from 17C to 28C (63F to 82F), making it a great destination any time of the year. In fact, the island enjoys around 300 days of sunshine every year. Whether youre looking to sunbathe on the beach or explore the historical sites, Cyprus has got you covered. The Beaches are Stunning When youre planning a vacation in Cyprus, one of the main draws is the stunning beaches. The crystal clear waters, beautiful sand and rugged coastlines make for an idyllic getaway. If youre looking to relax on a beach, or take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea, then Cyprus is the perfect place for you. The Mediterranean coast of Cyprus offers some of the best beaches in Europe. Some of the more popular spots include Ayia Napa, Konnos Bay and Protaras. All of these locations feature some truly breathtaking scenery with golden sand beaches and rugged cliffs. The Food is Delicious If youre a foodie, you wont be disappointed with the culinary options Cyprus has to offer. The country is known for its delicious seafood and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Whether you want to try traditional Cypriot dishes like Souvlaki or Moussaka or explore more international fare, you can find it in Cyprus. Youll also be able to sample some of the local wines and olive oils, which are a specialty of the island. The traditional food of Cyprus is based on fresh ingredients and includes various types of meat, such as lamb, pork, chicken and beef. The most popular dishes include Moussaka, Souvlaki, Meze and Kleftiko. Each dish has its own unique flavour and youll find plenty of different recipes to choose from. Cyprus also has an abundance of Mediterranean fruits and vegetables, such as tomatoes, olives, oranges and lemons. There are a variety of salads and vegetables that are typically served with the meals. Olive oil is used as a condiment, which adds to the flavour of the dishes. Its Affordable Visiting Cyprus can be done on a budget. There are plenty of affordable accommodation options, including apartments and hostels. The local currency is the Euro, which can help keep costs low if youre coming from a non-Eurozone country. Eating out in restaurants is also inexpensive, with prices for a meal at a mid-range restaurant being similar to what youd find in most other places in Europe. For even greater savings, consider packing some groceries with you so that you can prepare your own meals while youre there. MBABANE SNAT says it will not allow its members to teach the 2 716 Grade VII pupils who failed despite government saying they will repeat. Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) President, Mbongwa Dlamini said government has to employ teachers to specifically teach the pupils who did not make it in Grade VII. He said there was no way that they could be put together with the coming class of pupils. The year 2024 served as the last year for the Outcome-Based Education (OBE) curriculum and the group of learners in Grade VII will be under the Competency-Based Education (CBE). The introduction of CBE means the phasing out of OBE and Dlamini said SNAT wont allow government to exploit its members by making them teach the OBE pupils who failed. Class Minister for Education and Training Owen Nxumalo told Eswatini News that the pupils who failed Grade VII will repeat the grade and they will not be promoted to the next class. However, Dlamini said it was impossible for the pupils to repeat because they had missed six years of the new curriculum, which will be rolled out in Grade VII, this academic year. Dlamini stated that if anything, government should employ teachers who will be tasked with teaching the affected pupils under the OBE curriculum because there is no way they can repeat under the new curriculum. Governments failure to have a proper plan on this should not be a burden to our members. We will not allow them to be exploited. All these years, the pupils have been pushed to the next class and government should maintain that position even now and if they cant, they should employ teachers specifically for teaching these pupils, he said. Dlamini said if government is adamant that the pupils should repeat, then the question becomes: Is the Examination Council of Eswatini ready to serve two sets of exams for the 2025 Grade VII pupils? If government maintains its position on the matter, then government should be ready to roll-out two sets of examinations, one for the CBE and the other for the OBE, he said. Dlamini further revealed that this was not a decision to be made by government in isolation, but it was supposed to be a consensus of all relevant stakeholders, including the teachers. He said government did not conduct any consultations on the way forward as far as the situation is concerned, but they took their position unilaterally. The only time we engaged on the matter was with the acting principal secretary in the ministry, where we stated that making the pupils repeat was not possible, given that they had missed six years of the new curriculum and playing catch-up in one year was not possible, he said. Fail Dlamini also opined that the reason there were huge numbers of failures and a low pass rate in many years, was because the pupils had been pushed to the next class since the CBE was introduced six years ago. In the past five years, there has been an upward trend in the number of failures in Grade VII, from just 1 638 in 2020 to 2 295 in 2023 and the latest 2 716 in 2024. The alarming 2 716 fail were announced by the Minister for Education and Training, Owen Nxumalo, when delivering the Eswatini Primary Certificate (EPC) examination results over a week ago in a press conference, convened at the ministrys boardroom. The 2024 EPC results were the worst in the previous five years with a pass rate of 90.75 per cent. Meanwhile, 29 635 candidates sat the EPC examination with 1 043 candidates attaining Merits. The number of First Class passes was 3 547, Second Class passes 15 085 and Third Class passes was 7 088. Nxumalo mentioned in his press conference, that 2024 served as the second year of a normalised school calendar post the novel COVID-19 and the political unrest, which were being felt in the learning setting. According to Nxumalo, the EPC results, along with those of the Junior Certificate (JC), experienced severe drawbacks in their earlier learning years. Now in its 61st year, the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) takes place at the RDS from January 8-11. The exhibition is a showcase for secondary school students who research projects in categories such as technology, social and behavioural science, chemical, physical, mathematical science, and health and wellbeing. There are 250 prizes from a total prize fund of 50,000. The winner(s) will represent Ireland at the European Union Contest for Young Scientists this year. Cork participants in the BTYSTE are very much attuned to the zeitgeist. Third-year students at Loreto Secondary School in Fermoy, Amelie Nolan and Beatrice Cesonyte, have a project with the attention-grabbing title The Hitchhikers Guide to the Manosphere: The Effect of Manosphere Content on the Mental Health of Adolescent Boys. As Amelie explains, the manosphere refers to a network of online mens communities that promote anti-feminist and misogynistic beliefs. Andrew Tate, dubbed the king of toxic masculinity is the most well-known influencer in this space. The manosphere is often aligned to far-right views. Loreto Fermoy students Beatrice Cesonyte (left) and Amelie Nolan (right) looked at the impact of content from the manosphere. What inspired Amelie and Beatrice to pursue their project was an influencer called Will Hitchins who makes content against the manosphere and proves these people wrong, says Amelie. Adolescent boys are very vulnerable at this stage in life. Theyre looking for male role models who present as strong and confident. Amelie and Beatrice received 208 responses to their survey from boys and 64 responses from girls. Only three of the boys had never seen manosphere content. Some 66% of boys surveyed came across manosphere content online even when they were not looking for it. A worrying statistic is that 50% of boys felt negative about food after watching the content. Pressure to conform was felt by 57% of boys. This pressure brings with it mental health impacts, feelings of stress and insecurity. Feelings of self-worth are defined in terms of how much wealth males have and how many women they attract. Beatrice, who is good at coding, is working on a website whereby keywords in websites, videos and anything else that might be visited, relating to the manosphere, will result in a white page coming up on the screen telling the viewer the content is blocked. It will tell you why its blocked, says Beatrice and it will give a private link to our website, when its ready. Eugenie Kelleher, a sixth-year student at St Marys Secondary School in Macroom, has a project entitled Algorithm Influences: An Investigation into the Impact of Social Media Algorithms on the Mental Health and Behaviour among Irish Secondary School Students. Tik Tok, says Eugenie, is in my opinion practically digital heroin. There is constant stimulation from it with a dopamine hit every time you flick onto a new video. Tik Toks algorithm is so much more advanced than any other social media app. It provides personalised content, such as short video clips, based on past content that the viewer has viewed and interacted with. The key findings of Eugenies survey of 402 students on how algorithms affect them revealed that 32.6% of them said it has a somewhat positive effect. Eugenie Kelleher from St Mary's Macroom looked at the mental health impacts of social media. A smaller proportion, 22.6%, said it has a negative effect on them. 54.5% of students said (the social media apps) influenced their emotions at least some of the time. There is also a culture of comparison. Around 50% of participants admitted they compare themselves to others based on what they see. This can greatly damage their self-esteem. Eugenie says there is a need to better understand the power of algorithms so that people can engage more thoughtfully with social media. Ultra Processed Food and its Effects is the project carried out by Riva OReilly and Sadhbh Tuohy, first-year students at Kinsale Community School. Riva O'Reilly (right) and Sadhbh Tuohy (left) explored knowledge around ultra-processed foods. What prompted the study was simply looking at food labels and seeing how many additives and chemicals we are consuming. Typically, students lunchboxes contain sandwiches made out of sliced pan. Sliced pan, says Riva. Its ultra-processed food. We collected 1,000 answers to our survey, asking people to look at the ingredients of food and state whether or not they think its processed. I did it on my mom. Her answers were 100% right. I shouldnt have surveyed her because shes really good at this sort of thing! The lowest result was someone who was only 10% right in their answers. Sadhbh says that 66% of the foods in supermarkets in Ireland are processed. Its pretty bad. As part of our survey, we asked students what influences them when buying food. Most people said it was more price than taste, and not nutrition. With an obesity crisis in this country, most certainly exacerbated by processed food, what should be done about it? We think the government should have stricter regulations about how much processed food can be sold in supermarkets. We also think food should be labelled more clearly. As Sadhbh points out, people just think of crisps, fizzy foods and confectionery as being processed food but it has a far wider reach than that. Anything with additives and chemicals and colouring, should have a big mark on it saying ultra processed. Theres plenty of food for thought in this survey that reveals a lot of ignorance about what people are consuming. We are constantly hearing that mobile phones should be banned in school, with a government proposal to spend 9m on pouches that the devices could be placed in, out of the reach of students. This prompted two transition year students at St Brogans College, Bandon, to carry out a project entitled Addicted? An Investigation into the Positive and Negative Impacts of Removing Student Access to their Phones using Yondr Pouches during the School Day. The students, Mikey Foley and Jakub (Kuba) Kalitka, are not inclined to check their phones during school but they know its a big issue. Obviously, if students have their phones on during class time, they can easily disassociate from the class and go on their phones instead of learning, says Kuba. But he points out that, sometimes, phones can be an educational aid, for recording and other purposes. Michael Foley and Jakub Kalitka explored the impacts of removing phones dueing the school day. He is not himself in favour of banning phones in class, adding: But you have to look at it from both sides. Kuba says there could be a backlash from students if their phones were taken from them. He and Mikey carried out an experiment in class whereby students were given bags to put their phones away for a week. Some of them said they dont use their phones that much in school so it didnt make much of a difference to them, says Mikey. For the most part, the teachers we spoke to are in favour of banning phones. We asked the whole school if they wanted Yondr pouches to come in. 85% said no. 7% or 8% said maybe and the remainder said yes. Mikey and Kuba were surprised that the research they looked at found that banning phones doesnt help mental health. That might seem counterintuitive but students clearly dont want to be parted from their phones for better or worse. Cork's Lord Mayor, Dan Boyle, has responded to suggestions from Limerick Mayor that the mid west city should get 2billion of the 14 billion from the Apple Windfall and said that Cork should get priority in terms of developing urban counterpoints to Dublin. As he commented on the appeal for a portion of the Apple funding to Taoiseach Simon Harris made by John Moran, who was directly elected as Limericks Mayor last June, Mr Boyle said that the question of directly electing a mayor for Cork should be revisited as Limericks mayor was empowered by legislation to make direct approaches to Government ministers. The legislation doesnt permit the Lord Mayor of Cork to make similar direct approaches to Government ministers. Mr Boyle believes that the Apple funding should be spent primarily on public transport infrastructure. The principle that it can be used for infrastructure is important, it should be public transport infrastructure and if it can speed up Cork light rail, I think that its something that we in Cork would be arguing more strongly for, he said. There is competition between Cork and Limerick, theres no doubt about it, but if the national policy of expanding urban centres as a counterpoint to Dublin has any meaning at all, Cork has to have a priority and thats what Id be arguing for as Lord Mayor of Cork. Mr Boyle said he was a long time supporter of the position of Mayor being directly elected in Cork as it is in Limerick and described the power of Limericks first citizen to make direct appeals to Government ministers as a welcome power to have. Its certainly a power I, as Lord Mayor, would like to have, he said. To the question, should there be an elected mayor, yes, its something Ive long campaigned for and Id like to see happening but it can only happen after another plebiscite in the city and legislation would have to pass in Dail Eireann and I dont see that happening in a hurry. In a letter sent in September to An Taoiseach, Simon Harris, the Limerick Mayor said that the 14billion from the Apple windfall should be split with 2billion each going to Limerick and Waterford, 1billion to Galway and 3.5billion to Cork. He argued in the letter that this would help rebalance the countrys economy which was, he further contended, dangerously concentrated in the east. He said that Limerick and other regional cities were supposed to be growing at twice the rate of Dublin but there was a huge disparity in investment. Elevate Credit Union, based in Douglas village and Glanmire, but also with branches at Passage West/Monkstown and Grange has issued a new year message to members. In the message they say: As the end of 2024, were taking a moment to celebrate what has been a truly historic year for our credit union. This year, we achieved some remarkable milestones, which included: Successfully merged Douglas and Glanmire Credit Unions; rebranded as Elevate Credit Union; continued unwavering support for our local community, and celebrated exciting growth in our loan book and current accounts. The primary function of Elevate Credit Union has always been to provide accessible financial services to our members. Due to progression within the commercial sector and member needs, we have altered and advanced our available services to stay relevant to members throughout the years. We constantly strive to provide our members with the best possible service and keep them at the centre of everything we do. None of this would have been possible without you, our valued members, and the dedication of our fantastic team. Thank you for your trust, support, and partnership on this journey. Hope you all had a happy Christmas and a wonderful new year. Heres to building on the successes of 2024 and making 2025 even brighter together. They have also issued fraud protection notice to members which includes: Do not disclose your PIN number to any third party. Note that we never ask for your full PIN number in order to log into our website https://elevatecu.ie/ or in any communications with us. Phishing is a type of fraudulent activity carried out by cyber criminals who send disguised e-mails or make phone calls or texts to people or organisations purporting to be from familiar or reputable sources to encourage the recipient to click on links to malicious websites, to transfer or pay money or to disclose sensitive information such as account details, account PIN numbers or passwords or credit card information. Be vigilant in relation to any unsolicited communications or attempts to convince you that a call is from persons claiming to act on our behalf (or on behalf of any other financial institution or any official or State body) in an effort to trick you into disclosing information in response. Be suspicious and do not be tricked, even if the caller knows some of your details such as your name and address, account number or date of birth. Do not disclose any information in response to an unsolicited communication when asked for personal data such as passwords, usernames, PIN numbers or banking information and do not click on any links or open any attachments from these communications. If you are in any doubt about a communication purporting to be from Elevate Credit Union, do not respond. Christ King TY students hold annual Christmas fair Mia Smith and Lily Nodwell, both TY5, enjoying the annual Christmas Trade Fair. Picture: Jim Coughlan Offering a tarot reading is Ace Tessier, TY2, during the fair. Ballinlough Writers Group to meet at community centre The Ballinlough Writers Group will meet at the Ballinlough Community Centre on Friday, January 17, from 5.30pm, for some festive writing. A spokesperson said: If you are new to this please note The Ballinlough Writers Group meet on the third Friday of every month and its open to all people, including beginners, and anyone interested in writing. So even if youre only half interested please come along and check us out. We look forward to meeting you. Enquiries to Ronnie on 087 1672715. Lennox Robinson 100 word short story postponed The organisers of the Lennox Robinson shorty story said that they regret to announce that due to unforeseen circumstances our annual short story competition has to be postponed for this year. This proved a popular competition writers over several years. They went on to say: Wed like to thank all who entered the competition and well hold all the entries until new arrangements have been made. Malwina Glegola and Mariela Radeva, both TY1, enjoying the Christ King Girls Secondary School Transition Year students annual Christmas Trade Fair, at the school. Picture: Jim Coughlan GAA club charity collection The Douglas GAA community and friends came together to support three incredible charities: Good Shepherd, Irish Heart Foundation, and Simon Community. A spokesperson for the club said: Thanks to your generosity a full van of goods was delivered to Edel House (Good Shepherd); a very packed car of donations went to Simon Community and cash donations were also collected to further support these vital causes. We also want to extend a special thank you to the amazing organisers, who have been leading this initiative for the past six years. Your dedication and hard work make this all possible. If you missed the event our online donation link is still open. So if you couldnt make it on Saturday, theres still time to contribute. Every little bit helps. You can donate at: https://member.clubforce.com/memberships Furthermore we had a great collection in the bar recently where Christmas jumpers were to the fore. Just a few euros short of 700 was collected for Marymount. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated and supported this initiative. Have Douglas news to share? Contact Rory.noonan@theecho.ie A Cork city councillor and GP has said Ireland should consider an outdoor smoking ban similar to that introduced in the Italian city of Milan from the start of 2025. The new law prohibits smoking in all public spaces, including streets, with the exception only of isolated areas where smokers are at least 10m away from others. The smoking ban at the moment only concerns tobacco products, while the use of electronic cigarettes is permitted. Those who defy the new ruling in the Italian city could be fined between 40 and 240. Natural step Cork City North West Councillor John Sheehan of Fianna Fail, a GP by profession, told The Echo this is something Ireland should consider. When Ireland was the first country to introduce a workplace ban [in 2004], at the time there was a lot of opposition to that, he said. I think this is the natural next step to try and reduce down the rate of smoking because it can really make a difference. I would firmly support it. Ireland has a smoking rate of 16%, and it is slowly coming down. But if you look at other countries like Sweden, they are the first country to get their smoking rate down to below 5%, which is fantastic. Outside public streets, outside offices, and other areas you obviously see people smoking. If we can reduce down the rate of smoking, it is the single biggest thing we can do for the health of the nation. It is like any of these big changes, there is always opposition to it. But then once you get used to it and once you adjust to it, if you asked people now to go back to it and having smoking in the workplace, I think nearly everybody would say no. In Ireland it requires national legislation, unfortunately. But it is something certainly we should seriously look at as a nation. Ireland is set to face further cold conditions over the coming days, with Met Eireann further extending the status yellow low temperature and ice warning until early on Friday morning. The the national forecaster has said that there will be very cold nights ahead while the warning is in place, with frost, ice and lying snow widespread. It said temperatures will struggle to get above freezing during daytime hours. Met Eireann is forecasting that wintry showers will bring a further accumulation of snow, providing potentially hazardous travelling conditions, poor visibility and travel disruption. Bitterly cold In the Cork and wider Munster region today will remain will be bitterly cold today with widespread frost and lying snow. There will be sunshine and scattered showers of rain and sleet, with highest temperatures generally ranging between 1 to 5 degrees, but staying below freezing in sheltered areas and over snow-fields. Northwesterly winds will increase moderate to fresh and gusty. Tonight will see clear spells and scattered sleet and snow showers. There will be widespread frost and ice, with lowest temperatures of 0 to -4 degrees in moderate west to northwest winds. Tuesday January 7 is is expected to be another very cold day with some spells of sunshine. Frost and ice is likely to linger in some areas throughout the day, with highest temperatures ranging from 1 to 5 degrees. Lingering fog The cold outlook will continue on Wednesday, with areas of ice and freezing fog lingering in some areas across the day. Where the fog does clear there will be spells of sunshine, with afternoon temperatures fluctuating between +3 and -3 degrees. Thursday will be a mainly dry chilly day with sunshine. However frost and freezing fog may linger in southern parts. Again, maximum afternoon temperatures are expected to fluctuate between +5 and -2 degrees. Friday is likely to see some respite from the cold weather, with temperatures rising to between 3 and 6 degrees. While it will feel somewhat warmer, there will be outbreaks of rain in the morning that will spread eastwards and become lighter as the day progresses. CCTV cameras alone will not stop illegal dumping, a Sinn Fein TD and councillors have said in a submission to Cork City Council. TD for Cork North Central Thomas Gould, along with Cork City councillors Michelle Gould, Kenneth Collins, and Joe Lynch, suggested the council seek funding from the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications to establish a multi-agency Dumping Taskforce. Though they added that the party strongly support the use of CCTV to prevent illegal dumping and littering on Ballyvolane Rd and across the city, the council should go beyond reactive measures and look at the root causes of dumping in order to prevent it. Publishing the partys submission, Mr Gould said: Installing CCTV on the Ballyhooly road is a step forward, but it is also not the panacea for all dumping in Cork city or even the north-east. We need to see multiple targeted interventions to prevent this. Some of this must involve making waste collection easier by taking back control of our waste services and reducing the opportunities for dumping by bringing vacant homes back to use. He continued: We know that currently empty council, and privately-owned homes, are magnets for dumping. Leaving them to rot for years on end damages communities and, when used for dumping, causes public health and environmental concerns. We also believe that regeneration of green spaces used for dumping would reduce the potential opportunities. These projects could be further progressed through the development of a Dumping Taskforce. Ms Gould added: I was really pleased to work on this submission, as I feel we need to be offering solutions to council at every opportunity. While others might be happy to list the problems, Sinn Fein have the ideas and the ambition to solve them. I know from speaking to people that dumping can be really disheartening for communities who do their best . Not only does it destroy green spaces and ruin the image of an area, it attracts rats and other vermin. I hope that the installation of CCTV on the Ballyhooly Rd is part of a much larger initiative to finally target dumping hotspots. Emergency services attended a large fire at a waste plant on the northside of Cork city on Saturday evening, which left several vehicles badly damaged. The industrial fire took place at Greenstar Waste Management in Sarsfield Court Industrial Estate, just off the Upper Glanmire Road, with several waste collecting trucks and cars which were parked nearby seen to be on fire. Video footage of the incident shared on social media shows high flames from the husks of several vehicles. Six units from Cork City Fire Brigade responded to the incident shortly after 6pm, and asked the public to exercise caution in the area at the time, with An Garda Siochana also attending the scene. There were no injuries as a result of the fire, and no structural damage has been reported, with the blaze largely confined to a yard in the area, fire officers confirmed. Cork City Fire Brigades Robert OBrien told The Echo: The fire started at roughly 6pm and we had six units in attendance at the height of it. Six waste collecting trucks and three cars were involved in it. We left the scene at 10pm after four hours, so it was quite a big blaze. He added that there were no injuries to report, and that the Gardai were in attendance and will be looking into the cause of the fire. Foul play is reportedly not suspected by gardai. Gardai are investigating after a disturbance at a grocery store on the northside of Cork city this afternoon, in scenes which were recorded and shared on social media. The incident, which involved a number of men, some of whom were carrying and swinging what appeared to be bats or sticks, occurred at approximately 4.30pm in Hollyhill. A garda spokesperson said gardai attended the scene where a large number of persons had gathered and brought the matter under control. Speaking to The Echo, Sinn Fein Cork North Central TD Thomas Gould said: The ordeal that the staff and customers in SuperValu Hollyhill went through [today] was terrifying for something like this to happen is an absolute disgrace. Something like this, what it does, is it puts a negative light on the area its shocking. We need more gardai on the ground [in Cork] the ones that are there are doing their very best, but theres not enough of them. We have a great community here, this is not a reflection of the area. Independent Ireland TD Ken OFlynn said: I am appalled by the active violence and vandalism that occurred at the SuperValu on the northside of the city. Investigations into the incident are ongoing. Anyone who has ever seen the inside of a courtroom knows they can be places where strange things can happen. There are many examples of this, and one came in the form of a comment made by a judge one time on a case in America. A dispute that was scheduled for trial was instead settled out of court, and in response, Justice Martin Sheehan, of Kentucky, wrote a cancellation order that caught my eye. He noted that the news made him happier than a tick on a fat dog because the court is otherwise busier than a one-legged cat in a sandbox and, quite frankly, I would have rather jumped naked off a 12ft stepladder into a five-gallon bucket of porcupines than have presided over a trial of the herein dispute, which no doubt, would have made the jury more confused than a hungry baby in a topless bar, and made the parties and their attorneys madder than mosquitoes in a mannequin factory. In another more recent case in America, before a Judge Samuel Kent, the prosecution filed a motion to transfer a case from Galveston to Houston, a distance of less than 65 kilometres. Defence attorneys objected on the grounds that the long journey would impose unnecessary driving time and expenses on the defendant. The judge obviously thought the distance was insignificant and he responded with a great deal of sarcasm, saying: The Court certainly does not wish to encumber any litigant with such an onerous burden. However, he suggested that transport had improved substantially since the 1800s. Defendant should be assured that he is not embarking on a three-week-long trip via covered wagons when he travels to Galveston. Rather, defendant will be pleased to discover that the highway is paved and lighted all the way to Galveston, and thanks to the efforts of this courts predecessor, Judge Roy Bean, the trip should be free of rustlers, hooligans, or vicious varmints of the unsavoury kind. Courtrooms arent always as entertaining as that though. In fact, they can often be intimidating settings and the last place many want to find themselves. Sometimes, victims even forfeit their right to justice so they can avoid testifying in open court. The thought of climbing into the witness box to give their evidence can be too much for them, and thats easy to understand. Its a daunting prospect, and even after facing the challenge, there is still the possibility that things wont go their way, even when they have right on their side. Back in my community policing days, I organised work experience sessions for transition year students in Anglesea Street Garda Station. They usually ran for a week with 15-20 young people taking part. They proved to be so popular that the demand for places exceeded what we could cater for, so we often ended up running more courses than we originally intended. As part of the course, I brought the youngsters to the district court to see for themselves how justice was dispensed and to take some of the mystery out of the proceedings. With the co-operation of the sitting judge, the students sat at the rear of the courtroom and observed the comings and goings. It wasnt always easy for the youngsters to understand what was going on, but they always found it interesting. Courtrooms can be complicated places at the best of times, even for members of An Garda Siochana. The law is full of technicalities, and one slip-up could be detrimental to a case. Im not sure what transition year students would have made of the American aforementioned Judge Roy Bean, if they could have experienced his courts in the Wild West. He didnt have too much respect for technicalities. According to the website, allthatsinteresting.com, he was born around 1830 to a poor family and had a rough upbringing. Roy frequently got into fights, and after shooting a man in a bar brawl, he fled to California. Bean got into real trouble there too when he shot and killed a Mexican officer over a woman. A mob of the officers enraged friends went after Bean and attempted to hang him. Luckily, the rope stretched, allowing him enough time to hold on while the woman hed fought for cut him down, saving him. Bean learned that new railroads were being laid out across west Texas, and that construction camps were cropping up along the tracks. Seeing a business opportunity, he headed westward in 1882 to seek his fortune. At that time, Texas needed lawmen to help tame the Wild West, so, in August, 1882, Pecos County commissioners appointed Roy Bean justice of the peace. He was an unusual choice, given that as well as having no law experience whatsoever, he was also a former outlaw who killed multiple men himself. In any event, Judge Bean carried out his duties in true Wild West fashion. He held court in a saloon where he served drinks to jurors during recess and used a .41 Smith & Wesson gun as a gavel. Throughout his long career, he became known for his bizarre verdicts, and for his penchant for pocketing the fines he charged in court. He relied entirely on a single law book and burned all of the other books the legislature sent him. This may explain why Judge Roy Bean made so many unorthodox and at times outrageous rulings. In one case, he threatened to hang a lawyer for using profane language after the lawyer said habeas corpus, and in another bizarre ruling he fined a dead man $40 for carrying a concealed weapon. Perhaps Beans most outrageous moment came during a murder trial when an Irishman was accused of killing a Chinese railroad worker. According to the local paper, Bean let the Irishman go on the grounds that there is no law against killing a Chinaman. MBABANE Eswatini is grappling with a critical blood shortage. The situation is exacerbated by religious scepticism surrounding blood donation, among other factors. According to Dr Velephi Okello, the Director of Health, the country is facing a severe shortfall of blood supplies, putting patients in urgent need of medical care at risk. She attributed part of this crisis to strong religious beliefs that prevent people from donating. The insufficiency is due to the decrease in donor numbers, Dr Okello explained, adding that the ministry is actively encouraging regular donations. She noted that over the past few years, the primary donors for the Eswatini National Blood Transfusion Service (ENBTS) have been high school pupils. When schools are closed, we appeal to the general public to donate through outreach campaigns in communities and shopping malls, she said. However, Dr Okello expressed uncertainty about how long the available blood supplies would last. Since blood cannot be procured or bought, the ministry continues to plead with the public to make donating blood a habit rather than waiting until a relative is in need, she stressed. Transfusion Currently, when a patient requires transfusion, they often have to call family members to come and donate, irrespective of the blood type. The collected blood is added to the hospitals reserves, and when a transfusion is needed, the patients blood type is taken from the reserves, which is then replaced with the blood donated by his or her family members. A source indicated that this process can lead to confusion. He said sometimes the blood donated by family members is unusable due to contamination. Dr Okello assured the public that community mobilisation efforts will continue through the National Blood Bank Unit. The ENBTS highlighted that blood demand is high and currently unmet, especially due to school closures, as most blood is sourced from high school pupils, followed by university students and members of the public during community events. The challenges faced by the ENBTS include insufficient blood collection vehicles and inadequate fuel for operations. Blood collection and recruitment are ongoing, so availability will depend on turnout. There is no definite date for when the blood supply might run out, the ENBTS stated. Plans for ongoing blood drive campaigns are in place, and ENBTS intends to visit churches and businesses, as well as schools once they reopen. They also offer 24-hour blood collection services in Mbabane, Hlatikhulu and Manzini for those wishing to donate voluntarily or on behalf of a relative. This critical situation is largely attributed to concerns about blood donation that stem from strong religious beliefs. An investigation revealed that one primary issue regarding the acute shortage of blood arises from religious interpretations, particularly within certain Christian denominations. Reverend Muzi Manana from the Church of God expressed his reservations about blood donation, citing biblical passages prohibiting the transfer of human blood. The blood of a human being carries the soul of that individual, asserted Pastor Manana. He emphasised that, in his view, this soul may contain evil spirits linked to vices, which could be transmitted through transfusion. Nonetheless, Manana acknowledged the necessity of donating blood to save lives. He referenced Leviticus 7:26-27 to argue that the prohibition against consuming animal blood extends to human blood transfusions, as it implies a spiritual impurity. In contrast, traditionalist Elliot Mkhatshwa dismissed the religious objections as misguided. That is utterly foolish, he said, questioning the reasoning of those who avoid helping others due to their beliefs. In the story of Adam and Eve, there must have been a transfer of blood when God created Eve from Adams rib, he noted. Mkhatshwa stressed that the countrys leadership should educate citizens about the importance of blood donation. He urged individuals to embrace altruism, saying: One day, the tables may turn. Chairman of Witchdoctors Association Makhanya Makhanya affirmed the spiritual significance of blood, referencing cultural beliefs around its magical and healing properties. We often say, Ingati yemuntfu iyakhuluma, meaning a persons blood can tell stories about their life. While Makhanya acknowledged the spiritual importance of blood, he concurred with Mkhatshwa, stating that there is no harm in donating blood. However, he emphasised that government must educate the public about the importance of blood donation. Despite ongoing efforts, overcoming entrenched religious beliefs poses a substantial challenge. Addressing these issues necessitates a multifaceted approach, including dialogue with religious leaders and public education campaigns that emphasise blood donations importance, while addressing concerns within religious communities through education and interpretation of religious texts. The blood shortage in Eswatini highlights the urgent need for collaborative efforts to tackle these challenges. By fostering a clearer understanding of the safety and significance of blood donation, the nation can ensure this vital resource is available for those in need, safeguarding the health and well-being of its citizens. By Grainne Ni Aodha, PA The relationship between Ireland and Canada deepened under Justin Trudeaus leadership, the Tanaiste has said. Micheal Martin described Mr Trudeau as a true friend of Ireland after the Canadian prime minister announced on Monday his intention to resign after nine years in office. Mr Trudeau said internal battles meant he cannot be the best option for the Liberal Party in the next election. Reacting to the news, Mr Martin thanked Mr Trudeau for his time in office and paid tribute to him. Prime Minister Trudeau has made a significant contribution to the global stage, always taking a strong multilateral perspective to tackling the challenges of our time and working for a more just and sustainable world, he said in a statement. Under his leadership, the relationship between Ireland and Canada has deepened. His support for the Irish-Canadian community, based on our shared values and historical and cultural bonds, has strengthened the friendship between our two countries. PM Trudeaus commitment to the partnership between Ireland and Canada was clear to me during my meeting with him in Toronto in March of last year, and during his visit to Ireland in 2017. I extend my best wishes to Prime Minister Trudeau, a true friend of Ireland, in his future endeavours. Earlier, former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar praised Mr Trudeaus tenure in power and said that when his legacy is assessed he will be seen as one of the great Canadian prime ministers. Leo Varadkar shows off his Canadian-themed socks during a press conference with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (PA) He told RTE Radio: I do think he was a prime minister who achieved a lot for Canada. You mentioned Donald Trump, he dealt with him for four years, Donald Trump was going to get rid of Nafta, get rid of the trade agreement between the USA, Canada and Mexico, and he managed to negotiate a new agreement called the US-NCA which is pretty much the same thing. I think that was quite an achievement. He was very good on climate, had the courage to bring in a carbon tax and bring Canada into the Paris accords, and bear in mind, theres a really strong lobby in Canada oil industry, gas industry, all of that. Brought in gun control, something politicians south of the US-Canada border have not been successful at doing. Brought in a Canadian system of child benefit which I think has made a difference in the lives of children and families and also improved access to affordable childcare and healthcare. He acknowledged the problems that Canada faces, but said they were similar to other Western countries challenges: the cost of living, housing shortages and migration. He added: But I think when you look at the broad sweep of what he has achieved over nine years, it is significant and I think he can be proud of what he has achieved. After Mr Varadkar first became Taoiseach in 2017, Mr Trudeau was the first world leader to visit Ireland under his tenure and Canada was the first country Mr Varadkar paid an official visit to in the role. Mr Varadkar announced his resignation in March, when he said being Taoiseach had been the most fulfilling time of his life but said he no longer felt he was the best person for the job. Asked about the similarities between Mr Trudeaus exit and his own, he said that Fine Gael was not as far behind in the polls as the Canadian Liberals. He said: I remember one prime minister, (New Zealands) Jacinda Ardern, stepped down after six years, I remember her saying to me once, if youre a prime minister, if youre a head of government, theres only three ways you go: you die, you lose an election or you resign, and if you resign its either by choice or by force. If youre already putting hot honey on everything and are sipping pickle juice congratulations: youve completed the food trends of 2024 challenge. Are your tastebuds ready though for whats coming in 2025, asks ELLA WALKER. While theres no way to predict whats going to explode on TikTok as the year unfolds (who wouldve guessed cucumbers and cottage cheese would have had such a moment over the last 12 months), these things should definitely be on your radar 1. Chilli sauces Chances are, you already have a jar or two of different chilli sauces in your fridge. Even households that mainly rely on ketchup will likely have at least one bottle of sriracha snaffled away somewhere. We have become chilli fiends and there appears to be no limit to the number of spicy condiments were willing to try hence why Brooklyn Beckhams Cloud23 sauces in Hot Habanero and Sweet Jalapeno have been such a sell-out. If you are overloaded with crispy chilli oils and yet want even more sauce to fire up your meals, consider pilpelchuma the Libyan chilli paste which is packed with roasted peppers, chilli, garlic and lemon juice. 2. Dumplings A moreish meal in an expertly crimped edible wrapper? Or which you can eat multiple in one sitting? Dumplings really have it all. According to Whole Foods, were going to be increasingly scoffing them, in all forms, in 2025. Which will be absolutely no hardship if you ask us. Whether as xiao long bao (Chinese soup dumplings), pierogi (Polish dumplings) or tamales (steamed Mexican corn dumplings), these little stuffed parcels are the ultimate convenience food, but somehow always feel quite light and dainty. Explore the freezer section in your local Chinese supermarket for all sorts of fillings, and even your local supermarket. Feeling adventurous? Theyre also very satisfying to make at home. 3. Fibre Whole supermarket fridges are now dedicated to kefir thats how mainstream gut health and all things fermented have become. If youre well up to speed on the health and tangy taste benefits of kombucha, kimchi and sauerkraut, 2025s addition to your gut microbiome may sound less exciting, but its absolutely vital for your guts flora and fauna: fibre. You might have been on the Weetabix and Fruit & Fibre for decades, but its time to mix things up by adding fancy jars of beans to soups and stews, leaving the skin on fruit for an extra fibre-boost, and swapping white flour for wholemeal or rye flour when baking. Your cakes will take on a lovely nutty flavour. 4. Snacks from around the world The same old trusty favourite treats youve been grabbing from the garage forever just wont cut it anymore. Youve probably already noticed in your nearest corner shop that you can now easily get hold of sweets that used to be the highlight of going on holiday abroad, like Mentos and Swedish Fish, but things are set to ramp up even more in 2025. We want random crisp flavours from across the globe (peanut Curlys from Germany! Hot chilli and lime Takis from Mexico! Cheetos from the US), we want sweets that make Tangfastics look tame, and the kinds of KitKats they get as standard in Japan! We might not have to catch a single plane in pursuit of new snacks this year. 5. Sour cherries Fresh cherry season flashes by in summer, the glossy punnets start appearing in June, and by the end of July, theyre heartbreakingly gone. Or you keep persevering through August, but they just arent as flavourful. But get a taste for sour cherries and you can support your cherry habit all year long. Nab them dried to use in cakes and biscuits, or go super sophisticated and buy them in syrup, like Italian Fabbri Amarena cherries. Online cook shop Sous Chef is predicting these babies (made using the same family recipe since 1915) will go from a niche, much-loved ice cream topping to an iconic brand this year. Its sweetness with a sour edge. 6. Yuzu Were set to really get into sourness in 2025. The Japanese yuzu fruit is expected to be one of the flavours to watch next year. Alongside your new obsession with sour cherries, make room for yuzu Mintel has named it a flavour to watch in its 2025 Global Food and Drink Trends report. Largely considered a cross between a mandarin orange and a lemon, you might have spotted the zingy citrus fruit on cocktail menus and on Japanese restaurant menus, but its going to be crossing into our homes a bit more from now on. Traditionally found in sake and ponzu (a citrusy soy sauce), expect to spot it in mayonnaise, in marinades for fish and meat, and in kosho, a fermented Japanese chilli condiment which ticks your gut health, chilli sauce and sour boxes all in one go. NVIDIA held its CES 2025 keynote last night with CEO Jensen Huang and it was surprisingly eventful. The company finally unveiled its much awaited GeForce RTX 5000 GPUs that promise a considerable performance uplift, to start with. The company didn't stop there, also announcing Project Digits, a personal AI supercomputer, along with DLSS 4 and more. Here's a wrap-up of what happened and you can watch the whole event uncut, via the YouTube embed below. (Spoiler alert: It's more than 90 minutes long.) NVIDIA RTX 5000-series GPUs Huang strode out in a new snakeskin-like leather jacket and revealed the much-anticipated RTX 5090 GPU. With 32GB of GDDR7 RAM and an impressive 21,760 CUDA cores, the new flagship can deliver up to twice as much relative performance, particularly for ray-tracing (RT) intensive games like Cyberpunk 2077. In fact that particular title ran at 234 fps with full RT on in a video demo, compared to 109 fps on the RTX 4090. It's not cheap, though, priced at $1,999. The company also revealed the $549 RTX 5070 with a far more modest 6,144 CUDA cores and 12GB of DDR7 RAM, along with the $749 RTX 5070 Ti and $999 RTX 5080. DLSS 4 A key part of the RTX 5000-series launch was the introduction of DLSS 4, the latest version of the company's real-time image upscaling technology. It features a new technology called Multi Frame Generation that allows the new GPUs to generate up to three additional frames for every one frame the GPU produces via traditional rendering helping multiply frame rates by up to eight times. It also represents what NVIDIA calls the "biggest upgrade to its AI models" since DLSS 2, improving things like temporal stability and detail, while reducing artifacts like ghosting. Project Digits Finally, NVIDIA launched Project Digits, a "personal AI supercomputer" designed for AI researchers, data scientists and students. It uses NVIDIA's new GB10 Grace Blackwell superchip, providing up to a petaflop of performance for testing and running AI models. The company says a single Project Digits unit can run models 200 billion parameters in size, or multiple machines can be linked together to run up to 405 billion parameter models. And for its intended audience, Project Digits is relatively cheap at $3,000. ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement On top of all that, the company introduced NVIDIA Cosmos world foundation models for robot and AV development, the NVIDIA DRIVE Hyperion AV platform for autonomous vehicles and AI Foundation models for RTX PCs "that supercharge digital humans." It's all explained in the video above and NVIDIA's CES 2025 keynote blog. NVDA stock price seesaw CES and Huang's keynote are happening against the backdrop of continued volatility in the company's stock price. NVIDIA shares (ticker NVDA) spiked ahead of Huang's address, closing on Monday just shy of Apple's market cap pinnacle. But Tuesday saw a reversal, with the stock down more than 6 percent. Still, some are betting it's a toss up between the two tech giants as to which will hit the $4 trillion market valuation first. Update, January 7 2025, 4:18PM ET: This story has been updated with new details on Nvidia's stock price. Engadget spent the week of January 5 reporting live from CES 2025 in Las Vegas. See our picks for the Best of CES 2025. Plus, what we already know is coming, keynotes from notable CEOs and our experts' predictions on trends at the show. We're here! The Engadget CES 2025 team has mostly arrived in Las Vegas, where well be covering techs biggest annual conference. Our war room is open, the team has been seeing products and the coverage will ramp up in just a few short hours. Still, the show doesn't officially kick off for a couple of days, since the convention center is only truly open on January 7. But we'll have plenty of press conferences to cover tomorrow, and companies are already holding somewhat secretive briefings to preview their news. Based on our experience, as well as observation of recent industry trends, its fairly easy to make educated predictions about what we might see here. Over the years, the focus of the conference has spanned areas like TVs, cars, smart home products and personal health, with a smattering of laptops and accessories thrown in. At CES 2025, we expect to see AI get even more pervasive in all areas of the show floor. But we are also likely to get the usual slew of new processors and subsequent laptops, as well as all manner of wearables, trackers, bathroom appliances and massage chairs. Oh, the massage chairs. What we already know about There's already a lot we know is coming, just by a cursory glance at the lineup published by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA). In addition to numerous panels and talks, there will be keynotes by NVIDIA's founder and CEO Jensen Huang, Delta CEO Ed Bastian as well as C-suite executives from companies like Panasonic, SiriusXM, Waymo and Volvo group. We've also seen that Linda Yaccarino, the CEO of X (Twitter), will be interviewed by journalist Catherine Herridge at a keynote on January 7, while Snap CEO Evan Spiegel will be speaking about the "future goals of the platform" on January 8. Press conferences of note at CES 2025 Engadget will be running a liveblog all through the show, starting on Monday January 6th. That's the day many press conferences by companies like NVIDIA, LG, Samsung and AMD will be taking place, and we'll be covering them live. We'll be paying particular attention to NVIDIA, LG, Samsung and Sony, but are keeping tabs on the dozens of other press conferences that will be happening, as well as the talks with Yaccarino and Spiegel. Here's how to watch those noteworthy press conferences if you want to tune in yourself: ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement CES 2025 news that's already announced Some companies didn't even wait till January to make their news known. LG, for example, continues its annual tradition of sharing its upcoming CES launches weeks ahead of the show by unveiling the 2025 refresh for its QNED evo line of LCD TVs. The company has continued to release more information, including announcing its 45-inch UltraGear bendable OLED gaming monitor alongside a line of curved OLED screens. In fact, here's a little list of all the other CES 2025 things LG has already shared so far: ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement Hyundai Mobis, meanwhile, has said it will be giving us a look at its "Holographic Windshield Display," something it's claiming is a world's first. Hyundai Mobis even shared a picture of what its booth at CES 2025 will look like, in case pictures of convention center booths get you excited. Hyundai Mobis Plenty of other news has already been made public, including Roborock's vacuum with an arm to help it pick up small objects, Belkin's creator bundle of accessories including a tripod that makes taking hands-free video on your phone much easier. There's a whole lot more news already announced, and for now you can head over to our CES 2025 page to keep up! In addition to what's already been announced, we still have our guesses on big news and trends that might make waves at CES 2025. Heres a taste of what our team expects to see at the show. New video cards from AMD and NVIDIA Theres no doubt 2025 is going to be a momentous year for PC gamers. NVIDIA is expected to debut its long-awaited RTX 5000 video cards at CES, while AMD CEO Lisa Su has confirmed well see next-generation RDNA 4 GPUs early next year. Of the two companies, AMD could use the upgrade more. Its last batch of Radeon 7000 cards were decent mid-range performers, but they lagged far behind NVIDIAs hardware when it came to ray tracing, and AMDs FSR 3 upscaling also couldnt compete with NVIDIAs AI-powered DLSS 3. ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement "In addition to a strong increase in gaming performance, RDNA 4 delivers significantly higher ray-tracing performance and adds new AI capabilities, AMD CEO Lisa Su said in an October earnings call. As for NVIDIAs new hardware, a rumor from the leaker OneRaichu (via DigitalTrends) suggested that the RTX 5090 could be up to 70 percent faster than the RTX 4090. (Thats a GPU that I previously described as having unholy power.) They also note that other high level cards could see 30 to 40 percent performance bumps. Those gains might be enough to tempt wealthy RTX 4090 owners to upgrade, but RTX 4070 and 4080 owners might want to skip this generation. For NVIDIA holdouts with RTX 3000 and earlier GPUs, though, next year may be the perfect time to upgrade. Devindra Hardawar, senior reporter AI PCs round 2 Last year, I predicted that AI PCs would dominate CES, and that mostly turned out to be true. As 2024 rolled on, we saw even more powerful NPUs in chips from Intel, AMD and Qualcomm. Microsoft also doubled down on AI PCs with its Copilot+ initiative, which gave a big marketing push for artificial intelligence features and premium specifications (like having at least 16GB of RAM). Expect more of the same going into CES 2025, alongside even more AI being stuffed into every category of product imaginable. This year, in particular, PC makers are likely to gear up to take advantage of Windows 10 support ending next year. Instead of just upgrading your old computer to Windows 11, the likes of Dell and HP would rather you buy a whole new AI PC with the new OS pre-installed. ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement While 2024 was a year of endless AI PC hype, 2025 might end up being a year of reckoning. Microsofts long-delayed Recall feature is slowly trickling out to more users, but its already showing some glaring security holes, like failing to scrub social security and credit card numbers from screenshots. Weve also been mostly underwhelmed with Apple Intelligences image generation capabilities. PC makers have been eager to talk up the potential of AI-powered features until now, but in 2025 theyll have to actually prove they can live up to their fantastical claims. D.H. Earbuds that follow Apples lead on hearing health Im fully aware not every audio company has the ability to build out a clinical-grade hearing test and hearing aid features in their apps. However, Apples recent update for the AirPods Pro 2 should inspire the competition to offer some form of hearing health tools on their flagship products. Jabra was probably the best equipped to do this since parent company GN has extensive hearing aid experience. Sadly, the company announced earlier this year that it wouldnt make earbuds anymore. Samsung and Google could probably integrate something like what Apple made for the AirPods, given both companies existing health platforms. If they did, those announcements are unlikely to be made at CES, as both companies prefer to host their own standalone hardware events throughout the year. That leaves Sennheiser as the biggest audio company that consistently launches earbuds and headphones at CES. Last year, it showcased multiple new models, including one with heart-rate tracking for workouts. Plus, it already offers hearing assistance with dedicated devices like the true wireless Conversation Clear Plus. Those earbuds are more hearing focused than for general content consumption, so it would be great to see Sennheiser bring some features from that product to its flagship Momentum line of earbuds. Perhaps a Momentum True Wireless 4 Pro or Plus is in the cards, but the current model is just nine months old. Of course, theres plenty of room for other companies to innovate here, and there will be no shortage of new earbuds in Vegas next month. We also tend to see a ton of assistive devices and technology launch at CES, from major accessibility companies like OrCam and all manner of smaller brands. I just hope some of the new tech includes more general hearing tools on the models most people will want to use. Billy Steele, senior editor Vehicle electrification goes sky high As the growth of electric cars nears 10 percent of new models sold in the US, its easy to forget that wheeled vehicles arent the only kind of transportation seeing the shift to battery-powered propulsion. Flying taxis have been a mainstay of CES for the past few years, with concept vehicles from brands as large as Hyundai dotting the show floor in Vegas. Granted, these contraptions look more like giant drones with cockpits than anything the Jetsons ever dreamed up. But with companies like Archer Aviation and Joby Aviation pledging to actually launch eVTOL services (electric vertical take-off and landing) in 2025, the era of air taxis may have landed for real this time. Sam Rutherford, senior reporter Turning more phones into satellite phones Since Apple introduced Emergency SOS via Satellite on the iPhone 14 in 2022, we've seen a serious uptick in development in satellite communications. Not only did Apple expand its feature to allow for non-emergency communications, component makers like Qualcomm, too, tried to bring similar capabilities to Android devices. Snapdragon Satellite was announced at CES 2023, as a project between Qualcomm and Iridium, but the initiative did not gain popularity with smartphone companies, and was ultimately ended in November that same year. Since then, Google launched satellite calling in Pixel 9 phones, while SpaceX's Starlink satellite texting service has gone live in New Zealand via telco One NZ. In the US, T-Mobile opened up beta signups for its Starlink-powered satellite cell service this year. The skies are getting more crowded, too, with AT&T and partner AST SpaceMobile launching five satellites in September, as well as Amazon's Project Kuiper looking to boost its satellite internet network with space lasers. This year, Garmin launched the inReach Messenger Plus, which it describes as an "SOS Satellite Communicator with Photo and Voice messaging." Though satellite hotspots like that have been around for years from companies like Iridium and GlobalSat, they've historically cost $800 to $1,000, and haven't had the ability to send much more than a few lines of text. Garmin's product may be an indicator of things to come not only are we likely to see major phone makers embed satellite communication capability into future handsets, but in the interim we're probably going to get a bunch of hotspots so we'll never lose connectivity, not matter how far off the grid we get. And I wouldn't be surprised if CES 2025 is rife with devices that let us tap into satellites to get help and talk to others. Cherlynn Low, deputy editor Expanded dialog improvement features on soundbars When it comes to the main aspects of soundbars, there really isnt a ton of innovation from year to year. Heck, Samsungs biggest update last year was the addition of HDMI 2.1 support to its flagship model, which shouldve been there already. Companies have also been focused on the transition to cable-free everything, whether thats wireless Dolby Atmos or wireless transmission boxes. Audio enhancement features are a place where companies can really rise above the fray, and tools like Sonos TV Audio Swap and Boses Personal Surround Sound are great examples of this. A key area nearly every company can improve is dialog boost, a feature that raises the volume or separates spoken word from background noise and music for better clarity. Sonos made a huge leap in this regard on the Arc Ultra, offering two additional settings for its so-called Speech Enhancement. Previously, this was just an all-or-nothing toggle, which is how most companies handle their versions of this tool. Not only is the Sonos update customizable to a degree, its also just better, thanks in part to the redesigned architecture of its new premium soundbar. This is an obvious area where other companies can improve. LG and Samsung typically announce new soundbars at CES, and there are plenty of smaller companies that will debut some too. Id love to see all of them take dialog enhancements a step further and at the very least give multiple options for how its applied. LG has been using AI Sound Pro from its TVs since 2021 and Samsung offers something called Adaptive Sound on its home theater speakers. I would expect them both to generally improve the quality of their features, but Im hoping theyll expand the capabilities too. B.S. Update, December 17 2024, 12:40PM ET: This story has been updated to include the companies and CEOs that will be making keynotes at the show. Update, December 20 2024, 11:55AM ET: This story has been updated to include LG and Hyundai Mobis' announcements ahead of CES 2025. Update, December 25 2024, 10:00AM ET: This story has been updated to include a prediction about satellite communication devices being everywhere at CES 2025. Update, December 30 2024, 12:00PM ET: This story has been updated to include a section titled "What we already know is coming," that contains newer information about appearances by X CEO Linda Yaccarino and Snap CEO Evan Spiegel, as well as updates on LG's UltraGear line. The intro was also updated to be more accurate about the time of year since we first published this piece. Update, January 3 2025, 3:20PM ET: This story has been updated to include a list of announcements by LG, as well as to edit the intro so it is not outdated and reflects that we have, indeed, entered a new year. Update, January 5 2025, 3:30PM ET: This story has been updated to include more news from LG, Belkin and Roborock. The intro was also edited as the Engadget team has now arrived in Las Vegas and begun working. Update, January 5 2025, 7:53PM ET: This story has been updated to include a list of press conferences to watch, as well as some new details and links about Engadget's coverage. Engadget spent the week of January 5 reporting live from CES 2025 in Las Vegas. See our picks for the Best of CES 2025. If you buy something through a link in this article, we may earn commission. The Galaxy Book5 Pro and Book5 360 have an equivalent feature to Googles Circle to Search. Samsung is rolling out an updated line of Galaxy Books at CES 2025. The new Galaxy Book5 Pro (available in 16-inch and 14-inch screens) and Book5 360 (15-inch display) are equipped with Intels newest Arrow Lake Core Ultra processors. Since those laptop chips are built for AI tasks, its no surprise that Samsung is touting the laptops long list of on-device AI features, including an equivalent of Googles Circle to Search. AI Select is Samsungs branding for its Circle to Search equivalent. Much like Googles AI trick for mobile devices, it lets you select an area on your screen and instantly retrieve search results for it. The Galaxy Book line also has an on-device photo upscaling feature that can sharpen details and clean up blurry pics using Intels speedy NPU. (It can process AI tasks at up to 47 trillion operations per second.) Samsung Both Galaxy Book5 Pro variants have a 2,880 x 1,800 AMOLED touchscreen with up to a 120Hz variable refresh rate. (Although that means the smaller model has a higher pixel density.) The 16-inch model is a svelte 0.49 inch (12.5mm) thick and weighs 3.44 pounds. Its estimated for 25 hours of video playback. ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement Its 14-inch counterpart is a bit thinner at 0.46 inch (11.7mm) but is 21 percent lighter at 2.71 pounds. Its estimated battery life is significantly less at 21 hours of video playback. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Book5 360 has a 15.6-inch AMOLED touch display with a mere 1,920 x 1,080 resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate. (Samsung launched a Pro variant late last year with a sharper and smoother 3K / 120Hz screen.) The company says its new model of folding 2-in-1 is good for 31 hours of video playback. All three devices can be fitted with Intel Core Ultra 7 Evo processors, but that only comes standard in the 16-inch Galaxy Book5 Pro. The 14-inch model and Galaxy Book5 360 use a Core Ultra 5 Evo chip in their cheapest configurations. Both Galaxy Book5 Pro variants offer 16GB and 32GB memory options and 256GB, 512GB and 1TB storage tiers. The Galaxy Book5 360 is limited to 16GB of memory and 256GB or 512GB of storage. Samsung says pricing and retail partner info are coming soon. All three Galaxy Book5 models will be available in February in the US, Canada, UK, Germany and France. Engadget spent the week of January 5 reporting live from CES 2025 in Las Vegas. See our picks for the Best of CES 2025. TCL has long been a proponent of using Mini LED TVs as an alternative to OLED ones, and at CES 2025 the company is introducing what it claims is the best version of the idea yet in the TCL QM6K TV. The new QD-Mini LED TV is the first of several new options in TCL's new "Precise Dimming Series," and it includes several breakthrough improvements to the display technology. The QM6K is the first of TCL's TVs to use the company's Halo Control Technology Suite, which is the catch-all name for the various tweaks it's made to the dimming and picture quality of its Mini LEDs. That includes things like a new "Super High Energy LED chip" that TCL claims increases brightness output and light efficiency, a new "Condensed Micro Lens" that allows for even more precise control over the light that comes from a TV's LEDs and updated "Quantum Dot Technology" that helps display up to 98 percent of the DCI-P3 color gamut. TCL TCL introduced the term "OD Zero" to describe 0nm optical distance between the backlights and the LCD panel of the Mini LED TVs it introduced in 2021, but the company has apparently found a way to top itself with its Halo Control Technology Suite screens. These new TVs have "Micro OD," which TCL says "virtually eliminates any halo effect" or blooming on the screen. ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement The QM6K will be available in a variety of bezel-less sizes, from 50 inches all the way to an extra large 98 inches, and will support a 144Hz refresh rate and "up to LD500 Precise Dimming." Features like Dolby Vision (and HDR10+ and HDR10), Dolby Atmos and AMD FreeSync certification are on board, and the TV runs Google TV so you should be covered as far as streaming apps are concerned, too. TCL didn't provide a release date for the QM6K, but did say it's the first of several 2025 TVs it will release with the Halo Control Technology Suite. When it does come out, you'll be able to purchase a 50" model for $750, 55" for $800, 65" for $1,000, 75" for $1,300, 85" for $2,000 and 98" for $3,500. MBABANE Armed robberies have surged in areas closer to the borders with Mozambique, amid allegations of escaped prisoners bribing their way into Eswatini. The allegations of some of the inmates bribing their way into neighbouring countries of Mozambique, which include South Africa and Eswatini, were aired by eNCA, a 24-hour news channel. eNCA reporter Moloko Moloto reportedly tracked down one of the fugitives, who was said to have agreed to speak to the news channel. In the visual footage, the prisoner described how he managed to bypass what is supposed to be tightened border security. The convict, in the two minutes video footage, revealed that bribery played a significant role in facilitating his crossing and claimed that officials on both sides of the border were involved. Turmoil The interviewed escapee convict is said to be part of the over 6 000 who escaped in prisons in the Republic of Mozambique as it has been in turmoil following the October polls. As the inmates fled from lawful custody, there have been concerns that they may have fled into the country and as such, the nation could be in danger. It is on record that the country has porous borders with Mozambique, as this publication has at various instances reported criminal activities committed by suspects who then fled through it. Among these criminal acts were cattle rustling, car theft and also drug smuggling. In June last year, this publication reported that at a cordon line separating Eswatini and Mozambique, drug smuggling was at a peak in two communities under the Matsanjeni North Inkhundla. It is worth noting that the local borders are manned by the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF). However, the UEDF Public Affairs Officer, 2nd Lieutenant Tengetile Khumalo, dismissed the allegations of bribery and said: The UEDF is a professional establishment that portrays honesty and loyalty towards every operation tasked upon it; with that said, there is no way the bribery allegations could be true. Khumalo reassured the nation that the army is committed to manning all borderlines of Eswatini. Khumalo further emphasised that the UEDF is perpetually prepared and conducts its normal daily mobile patrols to ensure the safety of the nation. Unfortunately, the operations cannot be discussed in-depth as they remain classified. All illegal immigrants controlled by the army are handed over to the REPS (Royal Eswatini Police Service) as per norm. Meanwhile, in recent weeks, there has been a surge in armed robberies in communities in close proximity to Mozambique. On Saturday, a 54-year-old woman of Nyakatfo reported that at around 4pm, she was robbed of money at gunpoint. Nyakatfo is in close proximity to two ports of entry, which are Matsamo, located 40 kilometres north from the area and Mananga, located 45 kilometres north-east. The armed robbers made away with a sum of E70. Also, on the same day, another female aged 34 was suspected to have been robbed by the same bandits within the same area. It was gathered that the woman was robbed around 1:30pm and the suspects fled with her Samsung A10F and money in cash. It was gathered that the cumulative figure for her loss is E2 200. These armed robberies are at the backdrop of two people who lost E56 000 cash and electronics valued at E26 600. The armed robberies occurred in various instances and in two different regions. In the Lubombo Region, last Monday, a male from Mlindazwe was at around 9pm robbed at gunpoint by four men who were unknown to him. The man was robbed at gunpoint E50 000 cash and electronics valued at E16 100. This tallies his loss to E66 100. Meanwhile, in the Hhohho Region, a woman at Thembelihle was attacked and held hostage by two men who were unknown to her. The robbers, according to sources, were both armed with handguns and they robbed her E6 000, two cellphones, an iPhone valued at E4 000 and a Nokia worth E500. She was also deprived of her Lenovo laptop valued at E6 000. The robbers further withdrew from her bank account E3 000. Robbed Cumulatively, she was robbed of items valued at E10 500. On the other hand, a tenant at Mbikwakhe found her house burgled and her E40 000 was stolen. Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Senior Superintendent Phindile Vilakati said there were no armed robberies that were shocking and depicting that they could be committed by foreigners. The robberies we have recorded for now are few and in usual instances where foreigners commit armed robberies, they use assault rifles, she said. However, Vilakati said the police were encouraging vigilance among the citizenry as there were locals who could take advantage of the situation and commit armed robberies with the comfort that they will not be suspected. She said as per the statement issued by the National Commissioner (NATCOM), Vusi Manoma Masango, they are aware that there could be people taking advantage of the situation. Worth noting is that on Friday, the NATCOM issued a press statement, stating that the REPS is fully aware of the prevailing political situation in the Republic of Mozambique and is equally cognisant of its implications on the overall safety and security landscape in the region and surrounding countries, especially in Eswatini. Advantage It has come to our attention that certain organisations or individuals want to take advantage of the situation and use it as a decoy to commit criminal acts. As a Police Service, we would like to send a strong caution to these elements who intend to fulfil egocentric agendas at the expense of the national security, reads the statement in part.The NATCOM said as an organisation entrusted with safeguarding the peace, tranquillity and sovereignty of the country, they are alive and well prepared to deal with any and all possible eventualities that may be consequent to this situation.He said in the spirit of jealous patriotism and cooperation, they urged all emaSwati to heighten their sense of vigilance and alertness in order to promptly report any elements that have the potential to threaten the safety and security landscape. We also urge members of the public to report all persons who will be coming to their homes seeking any assistance to the relevant authorities. Engadget has been testing and reviewing consumer tech since 2004. Our stories may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission. Read more about how we evaluate products . Current Backyard made its CES debut last year with an electric smart grill and griddle, but for 2025, the company is going in a slightly different direction. Looking to cater to the pizza oven craze, the company revealed the Model P Smart Pizza Oven in Las Vegas. As you might expect, the unit is all-electric, but it's certified for use indoors and outside. The "smart" portion of the recipe here is Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity that provides access to tools in the company's app. The company says the Model P can hit a maximum temperature of 850 degrees Fahrenheit, the level at which a Neapolitan-style pie can cook in two minutes. For comparison, that's the same max heat output as the pricier Ooni Volt 12. Current Backyard explains that the internal design of its electric oven uses an algorithm alongside top-mounted graphite and under-stone circular calrod elements to ensure uniform heating. The company says this construction also eliminates the need to rotate pizzas during cooking. A cordierite cooking stone assists with the even doneness, especially for crisping up the crust. What's more, Current Backyard says the Model P will recover quickly between pizzas to keep the cooking process moving along. In fact, the company explains that you can cook three Neapolitan-style pizzas in about 10 minutes. The Model P will alert you when it's okay to launch another pie after you retrieve one from the oven. ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement The Model P has five cook modes for different styles of pizza and other uses: Neapolitan, New York, thin crust, frozen pizza and a broil function with high and low settings. Those presets can be chosen on the oven or with an app. Also inside the company's app, there's a Pizza Build Calculator that offers customized cook time and temperature based on a selected style and ingredients. This tool takes into account the amounts of sauce, cheese and toppings along with the thickness of the dough. You can also select well done if you're like me and prefer your pies extra crispy. Current Backyard didn't include an exact arrival date in the Model P announcement, but it did say that the pizza oven will cost $599 when it's available for purchase sometime in Q2. You'll be able to purchase accessory kits and an outdoor cart for the Model P as well, with that latter add-on priced at $399. Engadget spent the week of January 5 reporting live from CES 2025 in Las Vegas. See our picks for the Best of CES 2025. Engadget has been testing and reviewing consumer tech since 2004. Our stories may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission. Read more about how we evaluate products . The $1699 vacuum can propel itself over steps and obstacles up to 6cm. Robot vacuums can make cleaning up a lot more convenient but, depending on your homes layout, might not work with every floorplan. Chinese appliance maker Dreame is hoping to address that with its X50 robot vacuum thats able to climb over small stairs without assistance. Though the robot vac has yet to launch in the US, its already generated some buzz thanks to a teaser posted on YouTube last year (the X50 is already available in China). Now, the $1699 X50 is making its US debut at CES 2025, with Dreame offering an up-close look at its abilities. Dreames X50 robot vacuum climbing up some (small stairs) at CES, the company says these vacs can can survive about 30,000 actions on average pic.twitter.com/3uMf10GkZW Karissa Bell (@karissabe) January 8, 2025 Dreame says the X50 can handle stairs up to 6cm high (about 2.4 inches), thanks to its ProLeap System, which relies on a motorized arm underneath the vacuum thats able to swing out and boost it over steps. So while the X50 wont be able to climb up a full-size staircase (the average stair height in a home is between 7 and 8 inches, according to Google), it should be able to maneuver over smaller steps and other obstacles that may trip up other robot vacuums. ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement We watched it in action on the CES show floor and the X50 was indeed able to repeatedly maneuver up and down a set of small steps. And, for those who might be worries about the mechanical "legs" breaking, Dreame says the robo vac can hold up to about 30,000 "actions" on avergae. In addition to its stair-climbing abilities, the X50 can maneuver underneath furniture and identify up to 200 types of objects, which helps it detect obstacles in its path. It also has a built-in hot water mop and a specialized brush to sweep up hair without becoming a tangled mess. Dreame is opening pre-orders for the X50 on January 7, with people who pre-order also getting an extended two-year warranty and an extra cleaning kit. The vacuum officially goes on sale on Amazon and Dreames website on February 14. Update, January 7, 2025, 5:00 PM PT: This post has been updated to add photos, video and additional information from Dreame. Engadget spent the week of January 5 reporting live from CES 2025 in Las Vegas. See our picks for the Best of CES 2025. Samsung Galaxy phones will finally support Qi2 in 2025, according to the stewards of the standard, the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC). Qi2 wireless charging was supposed to bring the convenience of the iPhone's MagSafe to any phone that supports it, but the vast majority of Android phone makers failed to to do anything with it in 2024. That set to change in 2025. "The exceptional Qi2 growth story will continue in 2025," Samsung shared in the WPC's press release. "You can expect to see Android devices supporting Qi2 from Samsung Galaxy devices in 2025." Besides requiring the inclusion of magnets to make it easier to align smartphones with wireless chargers, Qi2 also supports up to 15W charging, which means Qi2 devices should charge faster than before, too. Alongside Samsung, Google is also throwing its hat in the ring for Qi2, specifically by contributing "its own high-power wireless charging technology to WPC" for the development of Qi v2.2. Notably missing from Google's quote is a commitment to actually using the standard in its own Pixel devices however. The Pixel 9 was inarguably the best Android device the company has shipped to date, but it notably doesn't support Qi2. In the more immediate future, WPC says that Qi v2.1 will include a new design for wireless car chargers with a moving charging coil that can adjust and seek out a phone regardless of its size or how awkwardly it's thrown on a charger. Engadget spent the week of January 5 reporting live from CES 2025 in Las Vegas. See our picks for the Best of CES 2025. At the 2025 Golden Globe Awards held Sunday night, Adrien Brody won the award for Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Motion Picture Drama. The actor nabbed the trophy for his leading role in A24's "The Brutalist." An emotional Brody had a lot for to be thankful in his acceptance speech. His speech included a segment he dedicated to his parents, who were in the crowd. After his wine, Brody made sure to spend time with them as they all celebrated his victory. Adrien Brody celebrates his best actor #GoldenGlobe win with his parents, and reacts to the announcement that #TheBrutalist won best picture - drama pic.twitter.com/Hi68mHmw7Q The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) January 6, 2025 Read more: Ariana Grande Loses Best Supporting Actress Award to Zoe Saldana In Shocking Upset Later in the evening, "The Brutalist" was also called up for Best Picture Drama. An elated Brody released his mother's hand and gave his father a quick kiss before joining Brady Corbet and the rest of the film's team on stage to celebrate their joint accomplishment. In "The Brutalist," Brody plays a Hungarian-born Jewish architect named Laszlo Toth, who emigrates to the States to escape the Holocaust. The film is directed and co-written by Corbet and was nominated for seven Golden Globes, including acting nods for supporting stars Felicity Jones and Guy Pearce. This is a major achievement for Brody, who in 2002 won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in "The Pianist." Many believe Brody's win at the Golden Globes rightly bodes well as the awards season continues on its way toward the Oscars. Following her remarkable performance in "I'm Still Here," Fernanda Torres secured her inaugural Golden Globes award for best actress in a drama film. Torres won against renowned figures like Pamela Anderson in "The Last Showgirl," Tilda Swinton in "The Room Next Door," Kate Winslet in "Lee," Nicole Kidman in "Babygirl," and Angelina Jolie in "Maria," with the latter two being the top contenders for the category. Fernanda Torres reacts to her first ever #GoldenGlobes win. She is the first Brazilian actress to win the category. pic.twitter.com/QreWFYBPEJ Film Updates (@FilmUpdates) January 6, 2025 "My god, I didn't prepare anything because I was late already," Torres confessed. "And this is such an amazing year for female performances," she added. "There are so many actresses here who I admire so much." And the winner of Best Female Actor Motion Picture Drama is Fernanda Torres for I'm Still Here! #GoldenGlobes pic.twitter.com/k3lPmYi7l4 Golden Globes (@goldenglobes) January 6, 2025 Many analysts predicted that Jolie would win Best Actress for her performance in "Maria." As the Golden Globes drew near, excitement rose surrounding the possible victors. The New York Post noted the competition between Jolie and Nicole Kidman, stating, "It's Angie v. Nicole here. Both are terrific, but the sexually charged 'Babygirl' might be too edgy even for the Globes to go all the way with." Screen Rant predicted, "All but one of the nominees are not tied to movies that have any other significant nominations." "That really leaves the category up in the air, leaving voters to recognize a film that otherwise will not really be featured. As a result, I believe Angelina Jolie will be the Golden Globes' winner for Best Actress." IndieWire said, "The win will most likely go to established movie star Angelina Jolie as an aging Maria Callas wandering around Paris in Pablo Larrain's 'Maria' (Netflix)." Gold Derby also predicted Jolie to win Best Actress, "Jolie is leading the pack with 37/10 odds and a whopping 1,200 users forecasting her victory, which includes 13 experts, seven editors, and 11 of the site's top 24 users." Jolie's reaction to Torres' win became one of the talks on social media, along with her stunning Golden Globes gown. Alguem ai sentiu? Fizeram video com as reacoes das derrotadas pela Fernanda Torres no Globo de Ouro. Ve ai a Angelina Jolie, Pamela Anderson, Nicole Kidman, Kate Winslet e Tilda Swinton. pic.twitter.com/EYguX961vg GugaNoblat (@GugaNoblat) January 6, 2025 Additionally, her daughter, Zahara, was there to support her on the red carpet and during the ceremony. Angelina Jolie arrives with her daughter Zahara to the golden globes. pic.twitter.com/RfcJuMmZ7S (@yourfavnook) January 6, 2025 The "Maleficent" actress' loss come after she recently finalized her divorce from Brad Pitt, marking the end of their eight-year dispute. The decision to end their marriage was initiated by Jolie in Sept. 2016, after being together for 12 years and married for two, due to irreconcilable differences. Glenn Close was censored by CBS amid a head-turning speech at Sunday night's annual Golden Globe Awards. Close dazzled in a black and sparkly signature Love Letter dress by creative director Oliver Rousteing, however, her language was less than glamorous. While the legendary actress delivered a speech for Best Motion Picture's drama category, her excitement went off the rails when she unexpectedly dropped the F-bomb live in front of millions. "One of my most treasured possessions is a letter that Katharine Hepburn wrote to me in which she described what we all do as this terrible profession, this terrifying profession," Close, 77, opened her speech. "And let's face it this delicious way to spend your life. We are all so f*****g blessed and lucky! Blessed and lucky to be together in this room. Let's get to the reason why we're here," the Hollywood star exclaimed. "The six nominees for the best motion picture drama," she concluded. Judging by the elated smile on her face and roar of the crowd, the audience was on board with the fiery energy. The Fatal Attraction icon was later censored by the network CBS, in the form of a dip in the live feed's audio, per 'TMZ.' Although the sailor language was cut out by the network, the bomb had already been dropped, and uploaded to YouTube. Despite the censored word being posted to the streaming site, fans' seemed more concerned that Close has never won an Oscar during her decorated five-decade career in show business. "Should have at least 2 Academy Awards by now!" one fan wrote in YouTube's comment section. "Glenn Close should've won an Oscar already," another wrote alongside sad face emojis. "Should deserve an Oscar for Dangerous Liasons [sic] or Fatal Attraction" a third added. That said fans may be onto something. Close appeared in Time's mashup of The Most Surprising Oscar Nominees Who Never Won, with Close topping the list among others including Amy Adams and Bradley Cooper. Glenn Close has previously credited Katharine Hepburn as her inspiration for becoming an actress while she attended college at the College of William & Mary in Virginia. "The thing I've always loved about Hepburn is she seemed to really know who she was," Close told PEOPLE in August 2024. Keke Palmer was recently spotted letting loose at a lively gathering with her presumed ex-boyfriend Darius Jackson, with whom she shares her son Leo, months after she called her relationship with Jackson "unhappy and unhealthy." On social media, fans and observers had mixed reactions to the clip, as Palmer danced with Jackson to Waka Flocka Flame's "O Let's Do it" (2010). One commenter wrote, "Good to see Keke and Darius on good terms!" Others criticized the public's focus on the moment, with one user commenting, "Why is this on every blog? It was nothing." "If someone abused me, I wouldn't wanna be near them BD or not," another declared. "Keke can do no wrong in my eyes. Yall let that girl live. She pays her own bills and minds her own business," another fan penned in her defense. During an interview with 'PEOPLE,' published on October 30, Palmer discussed how she overcame her relationship with Jackson and how their connection began. She shared, "It was like, not only is this the person, but this is the time. It felt very spiritual for Darius and I." She revealed that both she and Jackson were experiencing loneliness when they met and found comfort together. Their son, Leo, was not a surprise but a deliberate decision. She stated, "Leo was very planned." Troubles between the 31-year-old and Jackson became public in July 2023, when Jackson criticized Palmer's sheer outfit at an Usher concert via social media. "It's the outfit tho... you a mom," he wrote in a now-deleted tweet. In November 2023, the True Jackson VP alum sought a temporary restraining order after claiming Jackson had physically assaulted her, including an incident where he allegedly tried to strangle her, which was reportedly captured on video. Jackson denied the allegations, countering with claims of abuse by Palmer, leading to a custody dispute over Leo. "It got so out of control. The only way I knew how to bring order was through the court." In the clip, Palmer also locked lips with a woman. Some fans noted the dynamics of women's friendships, with one post stating, "Women friendships are very different than men's... None of my business, but glad to see her having fun." Another user remarked, "It was grandma kiss." Others speculated about the relationship between Palmer and Jackson. A skeptical commenter observed, "Didn't he apparently abuse her? Why go partying with him after all that?" Meanwhile, another defended Palmer's choice, saying, "She's doing whatever for her Baby Daddy. Go Keke! Now don't start crying afterwards, but do whatever it takes to get your family back." In other Palmer news, the Chicago native is preparing for the release of her new movie opposite SZA, One Of Them Days. The film, also starring Katt Williams, follows "two broke besties" who put themselves through the wringer to avoid eviction. The comedy is directed by Lawrence Lamont, produced by Insecure star Issa Rae via Hoorae Media, and written by Syreeta Singleton. One Of Them Days hits theaters on January 17, 2025. Tisha Campbell and Duane Martin have officially ended their financial entanglements, marking the conclusion of a tumultuous chapter. The couple, who married in 1996 and separated in 2018, finalized their divorce two years later but remained tied through an ongoing $15 million bankruptcy case. According to court records obtained by In Touch Weekly, Campbell, 56, and Martin resolved their bankruptcy eight years after its initial filing. The case involved nearly $16 million in discharged claims and $1.7 million distributed to claimants. The funds were reportedly amassed from selling their home, security deposits, and other assets, including $713,000 in residuals seized with their tax refunds. The financial turmoil began in 2016 when the couple filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Reports revealed that they owed $65,000 in real estate debt, $248,000 in personal property, and millions more in various liabilities. During the proceedings, the trustee accused Martin of hiding assets under a company name, leading to a lawsuit. Campbell, who reportedly trusted Martin, 59, to handle residual payments, took legal action after learning about potential mishandling. The couple also faced $15 million in additional debt, including $9 million owed to Los Angeles for taxes. Their financial strain was exacerbated by monthly expenses of $17,000, far exceeding their $7,655 income. Friends Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith became embroiled in the situation after lending Martin $1.5 million to repurchase their foreclosed home. However, Campbell opposed the terms, believing the sale would unfairly benefit Martin. In 2019, the Martin alum revealed she was left with just $7 after the separation, saying, "No one knows that, but I had nothing. Nothing in the bank. Nothing. I had maybe $7 to my name, and I was scared." She also filed a domestic violence restraining order, alleging years of emotional, physical, and mental abuse. While the All of Us actor has moved on with a new fiancee Ashley Marie Jones, whom he proposed to in February 2024 during a romantic helicopter ride, Campbell has focused on her health, sharing that she hasn't been sick since their divorce. The former couple shares two sons, Xen and Ezekiel, and Campbell continues to rebuild her life after enduring years of hardship. Demi Moore and Kylie Jenner seemingly had a less than amicable interaction during the 82nd Golden Globe Awards in a video clip trending across social media. The two were in attendance at the 2025 Golden Globe Awards, where hugs and warm cheek-to-cheek kisses are available in abundance. Well maybe not for everyone. Social media was in stitches after Moore seemingly approached Hollywood celebs at Jenner's table to give a warm greeting to everyone, perhaps except her. The clip begins with The Substance star leaning into a warm embrace with fellow celeb Elle Fanning, who sat to the right of Jenner, where Moore, 62, can be heard exclaiming, "I can't believe it!" Demi Moore ignores Kylie Jenner at the #GoldenGlobes2025. pic.twitter.com/SQxkLjtzbu Drop Pop (@DropPopNet) January 6, 2025 The actress then made her way to Timothee Chalamet, who was sitting to the left of Jenner, as The Kardashians sibling was wedged between her boyfriend, Chalamet, 27, and his A Complete Unknown co-stars. "Congrats, congrats!" Chalamet can be heard telling Moore. Without acknowledging Jenner at all, Moore is seen making her way into the crowd as Jenner turns around in her seat to face forward, looking into her phone. Now, fans across social media are calling the viral moment out as shady, maintaining that the legendary actress purposely ignored the makeup mogul, while others beg to differ. Read more: Zendaya and Tom Holland Are Engaged "Oh this was hard to watch," one fan replied to the trending video clip. "She literally turned to her and said thanks," a second fan wrote in the comment section. "SHE DIDNT DO IT ON PURPOSE DELETE," a third defended. "LIES, she was literally THE FIRST Person she spoke to at that entire table," another exclaimed. Meanwhile, Moore was simply blown away as she had just received her first major acting award after 45 years in the film industry. In a speech, the legendary actress said, "It's the beginning." After this speech give Demi Moore all the awards pic.twitter.com/QNYbsPBFX4 Sam Stryker (@sbstryker) January 6, 2025 The star revealed that she thought she was done acting until the script of the horror sci-fi film The Substance came along. "I've never been where I am exactly in this moment," she began. "My children are grown. I have the most independence that I've ever had. And so it's just this wonderful new time of exploration and discovery ... I just want to stay present to where I am and be open to the possibilities." Kylie Jenner dresses up as Demi Moore in Striptease for Halloween. pic.twitter.com/aJpyevtzGF Pop Base (@PopBase) October 31, 2024 Despite the awkward interaction, Jenner has made her admiration of the iconic actress quite clear in the past, previously embodying her Striptease character for Halloween in October 2024. New Delhi, Jan 6 (UNI) India on Monday strongly condemned the cross-border airstrikes by Pakistan in Afghanistans Paktika province in which 46 civilians were killed, and slammed Islamabad for its "practice" of blaming neighbours for its own failures. In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, in reference to the December 25 airstrikes conducted by Pakistan into Afghan territory: We have noted the media reports on airstrikes on Afghan civilians, including women and children, in which several precious lives have been lost. We unequivocally condemn any attack on innocent civilians. It is an old practice of Pakistan to blame its neighbours for its own internal failures. We have also noted the response of an Afghan spokesperson in this regard. The Afghan Taliban regime in Kabul has strongly condemned the Christmas Day airstrikes and has vowed retaliation. The Taliban said the Pakistani airstrikes in Paktika's Barmal district targeted civilians, mostly women and children, while Islamabad claimed that the strikes were aimed at militant camps of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Indias statement comes as the Taliban Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai issued a warning to Pakistan on Saturday, cautioning Islamabad not to exploit the patience of Afghanistan's interim government. Speaking at a programme in Kabul, Stanikzai, who received his military training in India, in a warning to Islamabad said that Afghanistan has fighters who act like atomic bombs. The Deputy Minister also said that Pakistan should not shift its blame onto Afghanistan, referring to the terrorist attacks in Pakistan that Islamabad has blamed on the TTP. Pakistan says the TTP is acting out of Afghan territory and has accused Kabul of doing nothing to rein in the terror group. Earlier, on December 26, Taliban acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi had voiced anger over Pakistans cross-border air strikes, and warned that Afghans will not forget the aggression against their homeland. Muttaqi said that countries that humiliate Afghanistan should learn lessons from Britain, the Soviet Union, and NATO, and asked Pakistan to adopt a measured policy towards Afghanistan. Muttaqi said: "We send this message to Pakistans officials: it is no achievement to martyr children. You martyred women and elders and destroyed homes. This is neither courage nor manliness. Even the people of Waziristan have become refugees because of you." The Talibans Ministry of Defense said that the Pakistani airstrikes had killed Waziristani refugees. The Pakistani airstrikes on parts of Barmal district in Paktika province also destroyed several homes and buildings. The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said it had received credible reports of dozens of civilian casualties, including women and children, in the airstrikes conducted by Pakistani forces in Paktika province. Referring to the cross-border strikes, Pakistans Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during a meeting with security officials, said that his country had responded decisively to recent attacks. Sharif said: "A few days ago, there was an attack on Pakistan from the other side, and a crushing response was given to them. Here in Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where some local individuals are present, and also in Balochistan, where conspiracies against Pakistan are being hatched, we know which countries are supporting them." In response to the Pakistani airstrikes on Paktika province, the Taliban regime's Ministry of Defense carried out retaliatory attacks on positions across the Durand Line. In the latest incident, forces from the Islamic Emirate and Pakistan engaged in clashes on Friday in Khost Province, which lasted for more than three and a half hours, Tolo reported. UNI RN On 17 December 2024, the union home ministerwhile speaking on the floor of the Rajya Sabhainvited controversy when he remarked that invoking B R Ambedkar had become a fashion. While the most immediate effect of these comments was the disruption of all remaining proceedings of the winter session, the contentious remarks and the back-and-forth polemics between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and opposition partiesespecially the Congressover claims to Ambedkars legacy, raise pertinent questions. In defence of his statement, the home ministerby citing Ambedkars differences with Congress during his lifetimeargued that the Congress had no right to raise accusations of insulting Ambedkar. He further claimed that the BJP and its predecessorthe Jan Sanghhave always strived to follow the ideals of Ambedkar and could never even dream of disrespecting Ambedkar. In response, the Congress leadership launched a critique of the BJP and its ideological dissonance with Ambedkar and constitutional ideals. While other political forces too have entered this debate, the role of the BJP and the Congress is particularly cynical, given that both of themor their politicalideological forerunnerswere vocal and at times caustic political opponents of Ambedkar. Though their points of contention with Ambedkar in the past varied, both parties have attempted to deftly hide their own past as they tried to expose the other. Thus, while the BJP did not speak of the Hindu Code Billand the role of its fraternal organisations and forerunners in opposing the passage of the bill and the vociferously acerbic critique of Ambedkar in this regardthe Congress attempted to brush the ideological differences between the Congress and Ambedkarduring this latters lifetimeunder the rug. While it was the home ministers first statement, categorising the invocation of Ambedkar as a fashion, that drew the ire of the Congress, his subsequent statement is of particular note. There he noted that if only the leaders of the Congress had chanted gods name in place of Ambedkars, they would have been surely accorded a place in heaven. The obvious question arises here, whether heaven and the idea of divine salvation in the hereafter is sought to be placed in contradistinction to Ambedkar, and the ideal of an egalitarian society on earth. This is especially relevant when Ambedkars critique of the caste order is also a critique of the belief system that justifies social exclusion and hierarchies through divine sanction and the promise of apt rewards in the afterlife. As both the BJP and the Congress are quick to point fingers at each other and claim the other to have caused insult to Ambedkar and his legacy, it should be noted that Ambedkar was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna during the reign of neither party, but during the short tenure of V P Singh as Prime Minister. It should also be noted that the invocation of Ambedkar became an instrumental political necessity in the last three to four decades due to the systematic efforts of Kanshi Ram, the founder of the Bahujan Samaj Party. His emphasis on the centrality of acquiring power for the politics of the oppressed, and other political-organisational stratagems that he employed, firmly placed Ambedkar at the centre of the electoral force field. This led the parties across the political spectrum invoking Ambedkar, at best as a matter of public etiquetteshishtachar, and at worst as a pragmatic calculation. The terms of the current debate and its content are confined within this very spectrum of etiquette to pragmatism. Thus, it is devoid of a sincere normative engagement with the ideas and ideals of Ambedkar and its translation into a concrete transformative sociopolitical programme. As long as caste and other forms of social hierarchy remain an essential feature of Indian society, the spectre of Ambedkar shall continue to haunt Indias politics. However, whether Ambedkar is turned into a symbol to denote the status quowhere the normalisation of caste-based alliances and rhetoric is justified in the name of calculated pragmatism and electoral stratagemor whether the ideals of liberty, equality, and justice that guided Ambedkars quest are harnessed as the guiding light of the struggle for structural transformation, shall decide the true course for Ambedkars legacy and the future of the politics of social justice in India. More than any remark, the biggest insult to Ambedkars legacy is the continued presence of caste and caste-based inequality in each sphere of social existence, the instrumentalisation of caste for electoral gain, and the majoritarian pandering across the political spectrum that chooses to maintain the status quo as the master key to electoral success. Today, the claims to Ambedkars legacy are as numerous as the interpretations of Ambedkars politics and thought. In this regard, the moral right to claim Ambedkars legacy has become a matter of political contestation. Many political forces in this tussle quickly claim themselves as the sole champion of Ambedkars politics and legacy. A fleeting perusal of Ambedkars voluminous body of work shows that his longevity derives from his steadfast allegiance to the cause of social transformation in pursuit of an equal and just society and his capacity to irreverently critique the defenders of caste. While claiming Ambedkars legacyas well as hollowing it out to appropriate him as an empty signifier to garner votesis a cynical political necessity for many political outfits, for those that desire thoroughgoing social transformation, Ambedkar remains inevitable. Those who seek to turn Ambedkar into a pillar of the status quo may indeed reduce him to a fashion or a fancy. Slogans asserting the values of justice, equality, and dignity may thus be raised as a matter of performance. However, for those committed to these values espoused by Ambedkar as a matter of fate or faith (to be construed in a secular sense), as a dignified, meaningful, decent and civil existence would not be conceivable without their realisation, Ambedkar shall be a matter of practice. Not a name to be invoked or chanted passively to guarantee a place in heaven but an active force to build the utopia of Begumpura in the here and now. Dismantling subsidies has been a key focus of the reforms in the agriculture sector both at the national level and also globally. The Agreement on Agriculture at the World Trade Organization even chalks out fairly ambitious road maps for reducing domestic farm subsidies and enabling fair trade in agricultural produce in international markets. Though the merits of the methodologies for estimating the extent of government support to agriculture are still debated, the estimates made by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) remain one of the most reliable. This OECD project, which was initiated in the early 1980s, has now brought out its most recent report titled Agricultural Policy Monitoring and Evaluation 2024, which provides very interesting insights into the trends in levels of support provided to agriculture by 54 OECD and non-OECD countries. The report estimates total support for agriculture based on three major components, namely producer assistance in the form of market price support and budgetary transfers to producers, budgetary support for general farm services, and consumer support through market transfers. By summing up these three components, the report estimates, the total support to the agricultural sector averaged $842 billion per year in the 202123 period. However, macroeconomic policies in some countries like India deliberately lower domestic agricultural product prices below international levels mainly through tariff and non-tariff barriers, which is like an implicit tax on the sector. Estimates indicate that such measures reduced the earnings of agricultural producers by $192 billion each year in the 202123 period. Consequently, in net terms, the total support to agriculture is estimated to be $650 billion each year during the three-year period. A further disaggregation of the total positive support of $842 billion to agriculture shows that almost three-fourths ($629 billion) accrued to individual farmers. While approximately half of this amount ($334 billion) goes to individual farmers in the form of market price support which boosts the domestic prices of agriculture products, the remaining $295 billion is in the form of budget spending to provide goods and services to the farm sector. The numbers for 202123 show that China accounted for the largest positive producer support (45% of the payments) followed by the European Union (EU) (15%), the United States (US) (7%), and Japan (4%). Unfortunately, India stands out as the nation with the largest negative producer support with its share of the total implicit taxation soaring from 61% to 75% over the last 24 years. The numbers show that the total producer support for agriculture in India was negative and fluctuating in the last 23 years ending 2023. The trends indicate that the negative support has steadily increased over the years to peak at $100 billion in 2013, after which it has fluctuated down to hover between $58 billion and $95 billion in the last three years. Similarly, the ratio of producer support to gross farm receipts (GFR) in India peaked at -26% in 2013, after which it slowed down and has hovered in the -12% to -19% range in the last three years. The negative producer support in India which stems largely from substantial budgetary support for agriculture does not offset the price-depressing effect of restrictive trade and marketing regulations. Estimates for 202123 indicate that Indias budgetary transfers to agriculture amounting to 8.8% of the GFR and the positive market price support of 1.9% of the GFR are grossly inadequate to offset the negative market price support of 26.1% of the GFR, which caused a net negative producer support of 15.4% of the GFR during 202123. The predicament of Indian farmers in facing competition is best understood by comparing the negative producer support in India with the high positive producer support in other major agriculture-producing nations. A perusal of the numbers indicates that the ratio of producer support to GFR was the highest in Japan (30.5%), followed by the EU (16.9%), China (13.2%), and the US (6.8%). The long-term trends show that Japan has reduced the ratio of producer support to GFR from more than half to less than one-third over the last quarter of a century and so also the EU and the US, albeit at slower rates. In sharp contrast, the ratio of producer support to GFR in China has soared from 4% to 14% during the period. Such high levels of support to farmers, especially in rich countries, severely distort international prices of agricultural products and threaten the food security of developing nations as these highly subsidised imports threaten to wipe out domestic production. Though countries like India have used tariff and non-tariff barriers to resist these imports of subsidised farm products, the Indian farmer continues to be badly handicapped by the trade restrictions that regularly clamp down on exports of agricultural produce and depress domestic food prices below international levels to ensure affordable food for the Indian consumers. This shrinks the profit margins on farm products and the surplus generation of farmers, which further perpetuates their dependence on government support to face the productivity and sustainability issues that have continued to challenge the agriculture sector for decades. Breaking this cycle of dependence requires that macroeconomic policies allow farmers to tap into the global markets and earn adequate surplus to fund new investments. The potential is huge as the 122-odd agroclimatic zones in the country offer a great opportunity to grow a large variety of agricultural products for global markets and substantially improve farm incomes. Farmers' efforts in producing food for the nation will be celebrated at Ripon Cathedrals Plough Sunday Service, taking place this weekend. The event is seen as a highlight of the early months of the year as it celebrates the contribution made by British farmers and food producers. The service, which begins on Sunday 12 January 2025, is available to the general public to attend. Plough Sunday is an ancient festival which was revived by the Victorians. Traditionally it is celebrated on the first Sunday after Epiphany. In the Medieval period, when there was only one plough in each village, the village plough was brought into church for a blessing before ploughing began on Plough Monday, the first working day after the 12 days of Christmas. In days when work was scarce in winter, the observance looked forward to the time of sowing with the promise of a harvest to come. The Dean of Ripon John Dobson will lead the service: Plough Sunday is one of those points in the year when we are reminded not to take Gods providence for granted and to celebrate his help and support in every season. "We are also keen to use this occasion to thank God for the farming and rural communities, praying for them as they continue to face sustained challenges and an uncertain future. An address will be given by The Right Reverend John Inge, who recently retired as Bishop of Worcester. A ploughshare will be presented at the service by members of the Yorkshire Federation of Young Farmers Clubs for a blessing by the Very Rev Dobson. A reading will also be given by a member of Future Farmers of Yorkshire. Outside the cathedral there will be a tractor provided by Ripon Farm Services, and local representatives of farming charities will be in attendance. A share of the proceeds from a collection will go towards the work of the charity Farming Community Network (FCN). Allister Nixon, chief executive of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, said he was 'acutely aware' of the strains that farming families operated under. The hard work of farmers in this great county and beyond should be a source of national pride," he said. "The service offers a welcome chance for us all to reflect on why we should value what British agriculture delivers for our plates, rural communities, precious landscapes and the economy. Anyone wishing to attend the Plough Service can gather from 2.30pm for food and drinks, before the service gets underway at 3.30pm. Northern Irish farm leaders have welcomed new bovine viral diarrhoea (BVD) measures as 'crucial' in supporting the livestock sector against the disease. It is expected that only a small number of herd keepers will be impacted by the Department of Agriculture's (DAERA) measures. Announcing them, DAERA Minister Andrew Muir urged farmers and herd keepers to act now to avoid being impacted. BVD is a highly contagious viral infection which affects productivity and welfare, and is spread by persistently infected (PI) and transiently infected (TI) animals. Given the substantial financial burden this disease places on industry and the benefits that eradication will achieve, I think it is vitally important that these measures should be introduced now," Mr Muir said. From 1 February 2025, herd level movement restrictions will be applied to herds containing animals that have a positive or inconclusive BVD test result on a phased approach, with grace periods being available for the first 12 months. DAERA said farmers can avoid restrictions if they take prompt action to remove or retest the positive or inconclusive animals within these grace periods. Movement restrictions will also be applied to herds with animals of unknown BVD status from 1 June 2025. This will be introduced in three stages, with the threshold number of unknown status animals reducing over a 16-month period. Keepers who are compliant with the testing requirements of existing legislation will not be impacted, according to DAERA. Cattle born before 1 March 2016, will also now need to be tested for BVD if they do not have a negative or indirect negative BVD status. And from 1 February 2026, additional movement restrictions will be placed on all breeding age females within herds containing animals that test positive for BVD. The Ulster Farmers' Union (UFU) said it welcomed the new measures, as they would be crucial in supporting the Northern Irish livestock sector. UFU deputy president, Glenn Cuddy said: "We have already made huge gains but these measures will enable us to continue this positive work to achieve our end goal, benefiting family farms, improving animal health and welfare and our local environment." "Swift identification and removal of persistently infected (PI) cattle is key to eradicating BVD and it is positive to see this being reflected within the legislation. We encourage all livestock farmers to make themselves aware of the new BVD measures." The fusion of machine learning and satellite imagery is ushering in a new era of environmental monitoring and agricultural management. This powerful combination offers unparalleled insights into the health of our crops, the risks posed by natural disasters, and the ever-changing tapestry of our planet. Unveiling the Potential of Rice Crops in Bangladesh A recent study by North Carolina State University (NC State) exemplifies the transformative potential of this approach. The research team focused on Bangladesh, the world's third-largest rice producer and a nation highly vulnerable to climate change. Traditional methods of monitoring crop productivity, reliant on field data collection, are laborious and time-consuming. This in turn hinders informed decision-making regarding exports, imports, and crop pricing. To address this challenge, the researchers leveraged the power of machine learning and satellite imagery. By analyzing time series satellite imagery a series of images captured over regular intervals they were able to gauge vegetation health, growth conditions, crop water content, and soil conditions across vast swathes of land. This rich data stream, when combined with field data, empowered them to train a machine learning model for meticulously estimating rice crop productivity between 2002 and 2021. The implications of this research are far-reaching. The model can pinpoint areas of high and low productivity, enabling policymakers to allocate resources strategically. For instance, surplus production in a particular region can inform decisions regarding storage capacity and transportation infrastructure development. More importantly, the availability of this information well in advance empowers policymakers to make critical choices about crop diversification, introducing climate-resilient rice varieties, and optimizing cropping patterns. The accuracy of the model is another noteworthy aspect. It boasts a range of 90-92 percent with a 2 percent margin of error. This degree of precision paves the way for the model's adaptation to various crops and diverse landscapes. The success in Bangladesh, where rice forms the staple food for 90% of the population and agriculture contributes significantly to the GDP, underscores the model's potential for global application. This research is a testament to the power of collaboration. Stakeholders, researchers, and policymakers from NC State, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, and the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute joined forces to ensure the utilization of best scientific practices for informed decision-making. The publication, titled "Advancing Food Security: Rice Yield Estimation Framework using Time-Series Satellite Data & Machine Learning," in PLOS ONE, further underscores the significance of this collaborative effort. Envisioning Floods: AI-Generated Satellite Images for Enhanced Preparedness While NC State's research focuses on agricultural monitoring, scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are harnessing the potential of machine learning and satellite imagery for a different purpose predicting flood scenarios. They are developing an AI tool that generates realistic satellite images depicting potential flooding events. This tool leverages a generative AI model, specifically a Generative Adversarial Network (GAN), in conjunction with a physics-based flood model. The GAN generates detailed bird's-eye view images of a region, portraying the potential impact of an approaching storm based on its intensity. However, GANs are susceptible to producing "hallucinations" unrealistic or inaccurate features within the generated images. To mitigate this challenge, the researchers incorporate a physics-based flood model. This model acts as a guiding force, ensuring the generated images align with real-world flood dynamics. The benefits of this approach are multifaceted. Firstly, it can serve as a powerful visualization tool for policymakers. Images depicting potential flood inundation can provide a more tangible and emotionally engaging experience compared to traditional color-coded maps. This can bolster public preparedness and encourage timely evacuations in flood-prone areas. The research team demonstrated the efficacy of their model by simulating a scenario in Houston, generating satellite images of flooding caused by a storm similar in strength to Hurricane Harvey. The AI-generated images that lacked the physics-based model integration exhibited significant inaccuracies, showcasing extensive flooding in unrealistic locations. Conversely, the images produced using the physics-reinforced method closely resembled the actual flooding observed during Hurricane Harvey. This technology holds immense promise for the future. It can empower policymakers to develop comprehensive flood-preparedness plans, including evacuation strategies and mitigation efforts. The ability to visualize potential flood scenarios can significantly enhance decision-making processes. The current iteration of this technology is in the proof-of-concept stage. Further research is required to refine the model's ability to predict flood outcomes across diverse regions and storm types. As Dava Newman, professor of AeroAstro and director of the MIT Media Lab, aptly states, "We can't wait to get our generative AI tools into the hands of decision-makers at the local community level, which could make a significant difference and perhaps save lives." Angelina Jolie wants to do more things that scare her. Angelina Jolie is entering her 'decade' of facing her fears and doing things that 'scare' her The 49-year-old actress earned a Golden Globes nomination for Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Motion Picture Drama for her much-lauded portrayal of opera legend Maria Callas in the biopic 'Maria', and while she admits her biggest "fear" was "failing" the late Greek soprano and her family, she insists facing her fears is exhilarating. Speaking to Access Hollywood on the red carpet at the 2025 Golden Globe Awards at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles on Sunday (05.01.25), she said: Failing Maria Callas and the people who loved her really scared me. This was a big fear, but its fun. I mean, what are we alive for if not to confront our fears and get our hearts pumping and you know try things were not sure of. The Tourist star declared: This is my decade of do what scares you. The Hollywood star who has Maddox, 23, Pax, 21, Zahara, 19, Shiloh, 18, and twins Vivienne and Knox,16, with ex-husband Brad Pitt also gushed over how grown-up and smart her brood is. She said: I feel like I got really smart, capable individuals in my house and I love them older." Away from the awards buzz, Angelina recently reached a settlement in her divorce from Brad, 61, eight years after she first filed papers, citing irreconcilable differences. The Girl, Interrupted star is exhausted and relieved that this one part of the familys healing journey is done and dusted. Angelina's lawyer James Simon told PEOPLE: "More than eight years ago, Angelina filed for divorce from Mr. Pitt. She and the children left all of the properties they had shared with Mr. Pitt, and since that time she has focused on finding peace and healing for their family. This is just one part of a long ongoing process that started eight years ago. Frankly, Angelina is exhausted, but she is relieved this one part is over." Angelina filed for divorce from Brad in September 2016 after just two years of marriage. It came just days after a journey on a private plane in which Angelina claimed Brad was abusive to her and their six children, but authorities did not charge him after investigating. Angelina and Brad later released a joint statement declaring that they would keep all divorce proceedings private for the sake of their children. They said: "The parties and their counsel have signed agreements to preserve the privacy rights of their children and family by keeping all court documents confidential and engaging a private judge to make any necessary legal decisions and to facilitate the expeditious resolution of any remaining issues. The parents are committed to act as a united front to effectuate recovery and reunification." They were declared legally single in 2019 but were locked in a lengthy battle over custody and legal issues over their French estate and winery, Chateau Miraval, following their split. Ariana Grande has paid a touching tribute to The Vivienne. Ariana Grande is among the stars to pay tribute to The Vivienne The drag queen - whose real name was James Lee Williams - won the first-ever series of 'RuPaul's Drag Race UK ' in 2019 and went on to have a successful career on television and stage and sadly passed away aged 32 on Sunday (05.01.25). The Vivienne starred as the Wicked Witch of the West (Elphaba) in the West End revival of The Wizard of Oz musical last year after playing the role in a UK and Ireland tour. And Wicked star Ariana who plays Glinda The Good Witch in the two-part big-screen adaptation of the Broadway classic re-posted a photograph of The Vivienne on her Instagram Stories and added three white hearts and an infinity emoji following the tragic news. A spokesperson said over the weekend: "It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams - The Vivienne, has passed this weekend. "James was an incredibly loved, warm-hearted and amazing person. "Their family are heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother and uncle. They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career. "No further information will be given at present, and the spokesperson asked that James' family be given "privacy" at this sad time. "We will not be releasing any further details. "We please ask that James's family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve." A cause of death is not currently known. 'Drag Race' judge Michelle Visage led the celebrity tributes and noted how "lucky" she was to have had him as a friend. She wrote on X: "Heartbreaking. I dont know how to say how I feel. My darling @thevivienne_ we go back to when I started coming over here to the UK. "You were always there, always laughing, always giving, always on point. 'Your laughter, your wit, your talent, your drag. I loved all of it but I loved your friendship most of all. You were a beacon to so many. Seeing you make your West End debut was amazing for me to witness your dream come true right in front of my eyes, Im the lucky one to have known you and to have laughed together with you so many times. 'I love you my darling. You will be so missed my lovely. May your light shine fiercely, forever. RIP MY ANGEL fly high.'" 'Drag Race UK' star Bimini Bon Boulash wrote: "I'm so sorry I'm in total shock." Cheryl - who used to go by Cheryl Hole - starred on the same series as The Vivienne and said: "I will love you forever Viv." Shortly after his rise to fame, James married David Ludford but they separated in 2023. Following his victory on the BBC Three competition series, The Vivienne competed on 'Dancing On Ice' and branched out into music with the album 'Bitch on Heels' in 2022. Sir Elton John poked fun at his sight loss as he presented a prize at the 2025 Golden Globe Awards. Elton John was on good form as he made his first major public appearance since suffering sight loss The 77-year-old music legend lost the vision in his right eye after coming down with an infection last summer, with the 'Tiny Dancer' hitmaker later revealing that he was unable to "see" previews of the 'Devil Wears Prada: The Musical' show - which he penned lyrics for - while losing his vision has also made it near impossible for him to work on music. On Sunday (05.01.24), Elton was tasked with presenting the prize for Best Original Score alongside Brandi Carlile at the star-studded bash at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles, and he made light of his health struggles by quipping that he had Rihanna onstage with him and not his 'Never Too Late' collaborator. He laughed: "There has been a lot of stories going around about my regressive eyesight, and I just want to reassure everyone it is not as bad as it seems, Im so pleased to be here with my co-host, Rihanna." After revealing the winners were Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross for their 'Challengers' soundtrack, Elton excitedly shouted: "Yay." Elton revealed in September he had spent the summer battling the infection and while he has "hope" he will be able to see properly again, he admitted it's a "slow" healing process. He told 'Good Morning America': "Its been a while since Ive done anything. I just have to get off my backside I unfortunately lost my eyesight in my right eye in July because I had an infection in the South of France. Its been four months now since I havent been able to see. My left eye is not the greatest. Theres hope and encouragement that it will be okay, but Im kind of stuck in the moment, because I can do something like this, but going into the studio and recording, I dont know. Because I cant see a lyric for start. Elton - who has sons Zachary, 13, and 11-year-old Elijah with his 62-year-old spouse David Furnish - admitted he was left "floored" by the situation. He said: "We're taking initiative to try and get it better. But at the moment, that's really what I'm concentrating on. It's never fortunate for anything like this to happen. "It kinda floored me, and I can't see anything. I can't read anything, I can't watch anything." The 'I'm Still Standing' hitmaker shared on Instagram in September: "Over the summer, I've been dealing with a severe eye infection that has unfortunately left me with only limited vision in one eye. I am healing, but it's an extremely slow process and it will take some time before sight returns to the impacted eye. "I am so grateful for the excellent team of doctors and nurses and my family, who have taken such good care of me over the last several weeks. I have been quietly spending the summer recuperating at home, and am feeling positive about the progress I have made in my healing and recovery thus far." Adrien Brody emotionally praised his family as he picked up his Golden Globe Award on Sunday (05.01.25) night. Adrien Brody emotionally thanked his family The 51-year-old actor scooped the Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture Drama for 'The Brutalist' - in which he plays an architect who flees post-war Europe to start a new life in America - and he reflected on the experiences of his own immigrant family and the "challenges" they faced in a heartfelt acceptance speech. He said in part: "To my mom and dad who are here tonight, my goodness you always hold me up. I often credit my mother for her influence on me as an artist but dad you are the foundation of this family and all this love I receive goes back to you. "To my beautiful and amazing partner Georgina [Chapman], your generosity of spirit, your own resilience and immense creative, you are a daily reminder of how to be, I would not be standing here if it wasn't for you. "There was a time I felt this may never be a moment afford to me again so thank you. "This story is really... my character's journey, it is very reminiscent of my mothers and my ancestors of fleeing the horrors of war and coming to this great country and I owe so much to my mother and grandparents for their sacrifice and although I don't know how to fully express all of the challenges you have face and experienced and the many people who have struggled immigrating to this country, I hope this work stands to lift you up a bit and give you a voice. "I am so grateful, I will cherish this moment for ever." Adrien also took the time to praise his fellow nominees, Timothee Chalamet ('A Complete Unknown'), Daniel Craig ('Queer'), Colman Domingo ('Sing Sing'), Ralph Fiennes ('Conclave') and Sebastian Stan ('The Apprentice'). He said: "Thank you everyone in this room and Golden Globes for this honour, I'm deeply humbled by this. "At the core of 'The Brutalist' it's really a story about the human capacity for creation so I'd be amiss not to acknowledge my fellow nominees... You guys reach such heights with your work and are such inspirations to me." Colin Farrell pledged to opt for "prostethics from here on out" after winning a Golden Globe Award for 'The Penguin'. Colin Farrell delivered a funny acceptance speech The 48-year-old actor underwent a dramatic transformation for his work on the 'Batman' spin-off series and used his acceptance speech for the Best Performance by an Actor in a Limited Series, Anthology Series, or a Motion Picture Made for Television accolade on Sunday (05.01.25) to pay tribute to the team who worked on his look. Taking to the stage at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, he quipped: "No one to thank on this one, I did it all myself. Just a raw, pared away performance. 35, 34, too many people to thank. You all know, it takes a village whether it's on the small screen or the big screen. "I'm here on the backs of the talent of so many people. Maybe more on this one because of Mike Marino, who designed the make-up and his extraordinary make-up team. All it took was three hours int he chair in the morning, I drank black coffee, listened to 80s music and became a canvas for that team's brilliance. "The whole cast... Matt Reeves will kill me if I don't thank him, he created Gotham, reenvisaed it for the Batman film, thank you for employing me. "I guess it's prosthetics from here on out." Colin went on to pay tribute to his fellow nominees, Richard Gadd ('Baby Reindeer'), Kevin Kline ('Disclaimer'), Cooper Koch ('Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story'), Ewan McGregor ('A Gentleman in Moscow) and Andrew Scott ('Ripley'), and ended with an enthusiastic shout-out for the catering team on 'The Penguin'. He continued: "My fellow nominees, Andrew, who I did my first film with 25 or 30 years ago, you can't even find it on Betamax, it doesn't exist, but we go back that far. All my fellow nominees. "Ewan, Kevin, Richard, wherever you are, Richard you broke my heart with your work this year. "Thanks everyone, oh Golden Globes. Whoever else I forgot, I apologise, you know what you mean to me. "Oh! Craft services. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Carolina, those cold winter nights when I was the only one overheating, she'd be there with a coke and a water every haf an hour. Carolina, god bless you, she kept the whole crew going." Timothee Chalamet has admitted to being a "crazy kid in high school" when he was growing up in Hell's Kitchen. Timothee Chalamet has spilled on what he was like growing up in Hell's Kitchen, New York The 29-year-old actor lived with his family in the federally subsidised artists' building Manhattan Plaza in Hell's Kitchen under the MitchellLama programme, a block which also housed a young Alicia Keys and a young Samuel L. Jackson. Chalamet - whose older sister Pauline Chalamet is an actress, while his mother Nicole Flender is a former Broadway dancer - admits at school he was only interested in acting and was quite a handful. Appearing on the 'Nardwuar The Human Serviette' podcast, he shared: "The building I grew up in in Hell's Kitchen was basically an arts block and was also home to a young Alicia Keys and Samuel L. Jackson. "They built it as regular apartments but, back then, the mafia was so infiltrated in Hell's Kitchen, they cut a deal with the federal government so they provided low-income arts housing for all these crazy artists to grow up in. "I was just a crazy kid in high school. Shout out to everyone who had patience for me at that time." Chalamet's passion for acting paid off and he is now one of the most in-demand actors around with lead roles in 'Dune', 'Wonka' and Call 'Me by Your Name'. He will next be seen playing Bob Dylan in the music biopic 'A Complete Unknown', and Timothee has described it as the "greatest honour" so far in his career. He said: "I get to be the voice of Bob Dylan, and that is the greatest honour of my life, truly. "This is the movie I am the most proud of in my career. "Dylan deserves to get this attention." For five years, Chalamet worked tirelessly to channel his inner Dylan, and he even learned to play the guitar and harmonica. He revealed: "When I took this role, I went to Bob Dylan's childhood home and saw all the original Sun Records he had. "It took me five years to learn to play the guitar. "All the downtime in between filming, I would just play. "I also learned how to play harmonica for the role. "It is the perfect thing to pull out at a party and make everyone go, 'Oh my God!'" As a result of his hard work, Dylan praised Chalamet's performance on the social media platform X, something which Timothee found "deeply validating". The actor told 'Extra': "He's a man of few words. "He's probably said fewer words publicly in his life than I've said in this interview alone, so to get some sort of affirmation - deeply validating. "Everything we do in life, we want our heroes to, should they even know about us, affirm us, so the fact that he did, it's more than I could ever ask for, and hopefully he doesn't delete it." Ready-made garment (RMG) exports (Chapters 61 and 62) from Bangladesh increased by 13.28 per cent to $19.887 billion between July 2024 and December 2024, the first six months of fiscal 202425 (JulyJune), according to provisional data from the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB). This marks an increase from $17.556 billion during the same period in fiscal 202324. Woven exports marginally outpaced knitwear garment exports in growth. During the first six months of the current fiscal, exports of knitwear (Chapter 61) rose by 13.01 per cent to $10.837 billion, compared to $9.589 billion in the corresponding period of fiscal 2023-24. On the other hand, woven apparel exports (Chapter 62) increased by 13.60 per cent, totalling $9.050 billion, compared to $7.967 billion during the same period, according to EPB data. From July to December 2024, Bangladesh's ready-made garment exports rose by 13.28 per cent to $19.887 billion. Growth was led by woven and knitwear garments, with notable increases in home textile and cotton product exports. This growth marked an improvement from the previous fiscal year's performance, despite a downward revision in historical export data by Bangladesh's new regime. Home textile exports (Chapter 63, excluding 630510) experienced growth, increasing by 7.85 per cent to $410.81 million, compared to $380.90 million during the same period in the last fiscal. Collectively, exports of woven and knitted apparel, clothing accessories, and home textiles constituted 83.52 per cent of Bangladeshs total exports, amounting to $24.533 billion for the period. Exports of cotton and cotton products, including yarn, waste, and fabrics (Chapter 52), rose by 16.32 per cent to $319.06 million during the period under review, compared to $274.29 million in the same period of the last fiscal. During December 2024, ready-made garment exports reached $3.770 billion, a 17.45 per cent rise from $3.210 billion in the same month of the previous year. Knitwear garment exports rose by 16.84 per cent to $1.891 billion, and woven garments increased by 18.06 per cent to $1.878 billion in the same month. The outbound shipment of home textiles (Chapter 63, excluding 630510) jumped by 20.47 per cent to $83.98 million in December 2024. The exports of cotton and cotton products rose by 12.02 per cent to $53.51 million from $47.77 million. The new regime in Bangladesh had earlier revised export data downwards, according to which, RMG exports from the country decreased by 5.22 per cent to $36.151 billion in fiscal 202324 (July 2023 to June 2024). According to the EPB, RMG exports in fiscal 2022-23 amounted to $38.142 billion, compared to the previously reported figure of $46.991 billion. RMG exports were recorded at $42.613 billion in fiscal 2021-22 and $31.456 billion in fiscal 2020-21. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KUL) The Italian footwear industry recorded a decline in main indicators in the first nine months last year. Exports declined by 9.2 per cent year on year (YoY) in value, with a sharp reduction in orders. This badly affected production activity, with the Istat index of industrial production falling by 8.9 per cent YoY and turnover dropping by 9.7 per cent YoY during the period. Italy's footwear sector saw a drop in main indicators in the first nine months of 2024. Exports fell by 9.2 per cent YoY in value, with a sharp order reduction. The Istat index of industrial production fell by 8.9 per cent YoY and turnover dropped by 9.7 per cent YoY. Exports to the EU fell by 2.6 per cent YoY, while exports to France dropped by 2 per cent YoY and to Germany by 6.2 per cent YoY. A report of the Confindustria Accessori Moda Study Centre for Assocalzaturifici showed how, with the effect of the post-COVID rebound getting over and after substantial stability, at least in value last year, 2024 closed with negative signs in all the main variables. Estimating a sectoral turnover that the first 12-month projections show slowing by 9.3 per cent YoY to 13.2 billion, almost 1.4 billion less YoY. In the third quarter of 2024 there was no turnaround in the sector's economic situation, explains Giovanna Ceolini, president of Assocalzaturifici, said in a release. On the contrary, more than 60 per cent of companies closed with turnover below the levels achieved in the same period of 2023, with reductions of more than 20 per cent for one out of five companies. The cumulative data for the first nine months, therefore, confirm the difficulties that had already emerged in the first part of the year, he said in a Istat release. The reflective performance of many major international economies, in Europe and outside the EU [European Union], and a geopolitical context that is anything but favorable, which has seen the addition, in addition to the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, of another front of instability in the Middle East, have severely penalised [Italys] footwear exports in 2024, he noted. Footwear exports to the EU declined moderately by 2.6 per cent YoY in the first nine months last year, while exports to France dropped by 2 per cent YoY and to Germany by 6.2 per cent YoY. For non-EU markets, the drop in exports was 15.3 per cent YoY for the period. Exports of shoes with rubber uppers grew by 8.2 per cent YoY in volume and 1.3 per cent in value YoY during the nine-month period. On the other hand, shoes with leather uppers, which have always been characteristic of Italian production and cover 65 per cent of foreign sales in value, recorded contractions of 7.1 per cent YoY in quantity and 8.2 per cent YoY in value. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS) The makers have recently aired the finale episode of When the Phone Rings. While fans had high expectations about the K-drama until the finale, many viewers are now taking to social media to speak about certain sub-plots in the final episode, that have enraged political emotions. there's something so disturbing about not only using an ongoing genocide as a mere plot device but to twist it in a way that paints the oppressors in a good light https://t.co/DjzrLzAAzO K (@cxokira) January 4, 2025 Many social media users are also urging others to boycott the drama, primarily because of a controversial scene that many interpreted as a reference to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine. Many viewers deemed the scene unnecessary and insensitive. The scene in question featured news reports about a conflict between fictional countries named Paltima and Izmael, which many saw as clear references to Palestine and Israel respectivelyFans took to social media, calling out the scene as "disturbing" and used as a "mere plot device." Many have also questioned the makers for allowing the scene to be in the final cut. RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co., Ltd. ("Zoomlion", 1157.HK) successfully hosted a key account networking and technology launch event on December 19 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, unveiling 24 localized innovative products and several intelligent construction solutions. The event showcased Zoomlion's commitment to advancing its globalization strategy and strengthening partnerships in the Saudi market. The event featured the launch of 24 products across seven major construction equipment categories, including mobile cranes, tower cranes, concrete, earthmoving, aerial work platforms, industrial vehicles and more. Alongside these innovations, the company introduced three intelligent solutions tailored for mining, nuclear plants, and infrastructure projects, as well as five core intelligent systems. At the event, Zhan Chunxin, Chairman and CEO of Zoomlion, engaged with clients on product quality, service efficiency, and spare parts support. He also visited local construction project sites, connecting closely with local clients. His visit reinforced the company's dedication to deepening collaboration and meeting the evolving needs of the Saudi market. Zoomlion has designed its products with precise adaptability according to the environment and working conditions to meet local needs. The fully tested and verified products also take the Saudi drivers' control routine habits into consideration to elevate the operating experience. Clients expressed their confidence in Zoomlion's capabilities, with Shawaf, Vice President of SHAWAF Company, highlighting their decade-long partnership as a testament to the mutual trust and success shared by both parties. He stated that the event was a great opportunity to connect with more industry peers and he hopes SHAWAF and Zoomlion can further strengthen their cooperation and achieve win-win success. Zoomlion has been a key player in the Saudi market since entering the region in 2006. In 2021, the company established a local subsidiary and developed a comprehensive service network comprising 16 branches under its "1+11+4" structure. This framework enables full-coverage services, timely technical support, and efficient spare parts supply, further solidifying its reputation as a trusted partner in the region. Over the years, Zoomlion's strategic presence has contributed to its sustained growth and strengthened its relationships with clients. The Saudi market serves as a pivotal region for Zoomlion's global strategy and a critical platform for advancing localized technology and achieving mutual growth. Through continued innovation in products and services, Zoomlion aims to deliver superior experiences to customers in Saudi Arabia and neighboring regions, reinforcing its competitive edge. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/zoomlion-accelerates-global-expansion-with-localized-innovations-in-saudi-arabia-302342704.html Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 6, 2025) - Defence Therapeutics Inc. (CSE: DTC) (OTCQB: DTCFF) (FSE: DTC) ("Defence" or the "Company"), a Canadian biopharmaceutical company developing radiopharmaceuticals and ADC products using its proprietary platform and drug delivery technologies in addition to novel immune-oncology vaccines, is pleased to announce the further strengthening of its patent portfolio with several key patent issuances and allowances in multiple jurisdictions. Upon Defence's striking discovery that multimers based on Accum variants may exhibit synergistic efficacy and enhanced stability when compared to their monomeric counterparts, Defence filed US patent application no. 18/318,384 (the '384 application) in May 2023, along with a request for fast-track examination by the USPTO. Defence is now thrilled to announce that the USPTO issued a Notice of Allowance on October 17, 2024, with the US patent expected to issue in early 2025 upon payment of the requisite governmental fees. The allowance of the '384 application is noteworthy for Defence's current clinical programs and business strategy on several fronts. First, the allowed application contains valuable composition-of-matter claims covering Accum-based dimers and multimers, which cover the molecular entities ready for clinical development under Defence's flagship AccuTOX and ARM anti-cancer programs. The claims cover the dimers and multimers used alone or conjugated to antigens, carriers, or antibodies, the latter of which is actively being investigated by Defence for the development of novel ADCs. Second, the issuance of the US patent stemming from the '384 application will provide a long period of market exclusivity for Defence in the largest global commercial market for innovative anti-cancer therapeutics, with a projected patent expiry date in 2043. Third, the allowance by the USPTO provides validation from a major patent office of the efficacy, innovative nature, and patentability of Defence's Accum-based dimer and multimer technology, which bodes well for the company's other national filings planning in Q3 of 2025 stemming from corresponding international (PCT) patent application no. PCT/CA2023/051758. Defence is also pleased to announce the further strengthening of its patent portfolio covering its platform vaccine technology based on covalent conjugation of Accum and its variants to enhance immunogenicity of vaccines. In addition to patents already secured for this technology in the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan, Defence now adds US patent no. 12,150,989 (the '989 patent) that was issued on November 26, 2024. The '989 patent, which includes composition-of-matter coverage, extends Defence's protection of its Accum-based immunogenicity-enhancing variants to ones based on any steroid acid. Furthermore, Defence is also pleased to disclose that the counterpart Singaporean application no. 11202304388T was recently allowed by the Singaporean Patent Office, and the Singaporean patent is expected to be granted in early 2025 upon payment of the requisite governmental fees. These positive developments demonstrate Defence's continued commitment to strengthening its intellectual property, paving the way for licensing and strategic partnerships, for example, to improve the potency of vaccines already approved or currently in development. "The recent issuance of these patents and allowances with broad claims covering our leading clinical candidates validates the innovative nature and the strength of our efficacy results, as we remain committed to the development of novel therapeutics for cancers. In addition, it secures Defence to negotiate licensing agreements with strong Biotech and Pharma companies," says Mr. Plouffe, CEO and president of Defence. With the recent additions of Dr. Svetlana Selivanova, Dr. Maxime Parisotto and Dr. Elias Theodorou to its leadership team, and the fortification of its patent portfolio, foundations have been laid for Defence to build upon a very productive end of 2024, enabling the company to take major leaps forward in 2025 and bring Defence closer to its promise of bring to market novel anti-cancer therapies to improve the lives of patients worldwide. About Defence: Defence Therapeutics is a publicly-traded clinical-stage biotechnology company developing and engineering the next generation of radio-immuno-conjugate and ADC products using its proprietary platform in addition to novel immune-oncology vaccines. The core of Defence Therapeutics platform is the ACCUM technology, which enables precision delivery of radio-immuno-conjugates or ADCs in their intact form to target cells, and vaccine antigens. As a result, increased efficacy and potency can be reached against catastrophic illness such as cancer and infectious diseases. Cautionary Statement Regarding "Forward-Looking" Information This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include regulatory actions, market prices, and continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Neither the CSE nor its market regulator, as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE, accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235990 SOURCE: Defence Therapeutics Inc. A2MAC1 Selects Microsoft Azure as its Preferred Cloud Platform and Launches its Cost and Sustainability Suite in the Azure Marketplace. January 6th, 2025 10:00 AM Central European Time A2MAC1 Eurl today announced its collaboration with Microsoft. This collaboration supports the automotive transformation via cloud-based solutions that automate and integrate benchmarking and cost-value engineering processes. The first offering now available in the Microsoft Azure Marketplace is A2MAC1's brand-new Cost & Sustainability Suite (CSS). CSS is leveraging A2MAC1s renowned benchmarking platform and enables faster innovation through competitive transparency and insights, covering 90% of the global vehicle market. "A2MAC1's Costing & Sustainability Solution will enable customers to further accelerate their vehicle development cycle, save cost and optimize their carbon footprint through an integrated experience powered by Azure", says Arno Zinke, A2MAC1's Chief Technology and Product Officer. A2MAC1 and Microsoft technology and expertise make for a robust solution for cost and carbon engineering and benchmarking for the automotive industry. At the core of the solution are Azure and A2MAC1 Cost and Sustainability Calculator and A2MAC1's Automotive cost, CO2 and material data libraries. The solution will provide customers with early-stage directional cost and CO2 analysis to facilitate smarter make or buy decisions by comparing their own designs against key competitors. Thanks to A2MAC1's Cost and Sustainability Library OEMs can quickly identify relevant suppliers that match their cost, CO2 and performance targets. "Shifting Left" by making critical design and budget decisions earlier in the product lifecycle reduces development costs and mitigates risks in later stages. Cross-team collaboration enhances agility and transparency. The new Cost and Sustainability Suite supports early-stage "what-if" scenarios driven by industry data and enables seamless sharing and collaboration on cost and benchmarking targets. With Azure Front Door, users benefit from fast and secure global access to A2MAC1's cloud tools, while App Services and Functions deliver scalable, serverless solutions for real-time analytics and automation. Azure SQL Managed Instance and Azure SQL Database provide a reliable backbone for managing extensive cost and sustainability data, complemented by App Insights, which ensures peak performance through real-time monitoring. Meanwhile, Elastic Cloud ensures businesses can scale resources rapidly to meet evolving demands, while Azure Data Factory version 2 (v2) enables seamless integration with enterprise systems and Azure Fluid Relay underpins the infrastructure for real-time collaboration A2MAC1 and Microsoft will continue to pursue joint customer opportunities in the automotive industry focusing on delivering differentiated value to OEM's and Supplier. A2MAC1's trusted expertise has been key in supporting the development of next-generation vehicles, earning recognition as the "gold standard in the automotive industry", says Arno Zinke. Known for internationally recognized insights, A2MAC1 provided detailed cost breakdowns and comparative analyses that enabled a leading carmaker to achieve significant advancements in their drive technology. Through A2MAC1's analysis, the carmaker's models were shown to outperform key competitors, being more affordable than two out of three rivals, delivering nearly twice the power, weighing 20% less than the main competitor, and achieving an impressive 8.8 HP/kg, far surpassing the second-best at just 3.5 HP/kg. These results highlight A2MAC1's critical role in driving efficiency, innovation, and competitive advantage in the automotive sector. "This collaboration builds on Microsoft's expertise in cloud and AI as well as A2MAC1's leadership position in automotive benchmarking, insights, product design and sustainable cost-value engineering" said Patrick Katenkamp, CEO, A2MAC1. "This is exactly the capabilities customers need to 'decode the future' and successfully compete during times of rapid change." "We are pleased that Microsoft Azure is A2MAC1's preferred cloud platform and that both solutions are available in the Azure Marketplace," said Dayan Rodriquez, Corporate Vice President, Manufacturing & Mobility, Microsoft. "Combining A2MAC1's platform with the speed, scalability, and intelligence of Azure will enable customers to accelerate industrial innovation." About A2MAC1 A2MAC1 helps its clients engineer better vehicles, faster and with more confidence. A2MAC1's mission is to empower businesses with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions, drive innovation, and achieve sustainable growth through a unique blend of technical insights, competitive analysis, trend forecasting and integrated solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of the automotive industry. With a global presence and a reputation for excellence, A2MAC1 is the trusted partner for companies looking to stay ahead in a rapidly changing industry. ........... A2MAC1 Communication Team communication@a2mac1.com __ 24 - 26 Quai Alphonse le Gallo 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt - France www.a2mac1.com __ A2MAC1 BRUSSELS (dpa-AFX) - German stocks are modestly higher Monday morning with investors reacting to data on Germany's composite and services sector PMI readings, in addition to data from France and UK, and looking ahead to some crucial economic data, including monthly jobs report, from the U.S.The benchmark DAX was up 81.33 points or 0.42% at 19,990.45 a little while ago.Data from S&P Global said the Composite PMI in Germany increased to 48 points in December from 47.20 points in November of 2024, while Services PMI increased to 51.20 points in December from 49.30 points in November of 2024.S&P Global said that the Euro Area's Composite PMI increased to 49.60 points in December from 48.30 points in November of 2024. The data said Services PMI in the Euro Area increased to 51.60 points in December from 49.50 points a month earlier.Infineon is climbing more than 6%. Sartorius is up nearly 5% and Daimler Truck Holding is gaining about 3.5%. BMW, Porsche, Bayer, Puma and Mercedes-Benz are up 2 to 2.5%.Volkswagen is gaining nearly 2.5%. According to reports, China's Xpeng Motors has signed a memorandum of understanding with Volkswagen to co-operate on an ultra-fast charging network in China.Siemens Energy, Adisas, Zalando, Brenntag, Siemens, Merck, Fresenius, BASF and Commerzbank are also notably higher.MTU Aero Engines is down by about 2.5%. Vonovia, Hannover Rueck, Beiersdorf, Munich RE and Deutsche Boerse are lower by 0.5 to 1%.Copyright(c) 2025 RTTNews.com. All Rights ReservedCopyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. HONG KONG, Jan 6, 2025 - (ACN Newswire) - - Themed New Play for All, the trio of fairs brings together more than 2,500 exhibitors from 34 countries and regions- The number of exhibitors at Hong Kong Baby Products Fair achieves a record high; over 380 well-known toy and baby products brands in the Brand Name Gallery- The three fairs reveal several product trends, including digitisation, green toys, and the popularity of cross-age group products- Asian Toys & Games Forum will be held tomorrow, gathering international experts to discuss the social responsibilities of the toy industryKicking off a brand new year, the 51st HKTDC Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, the 16th HKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair and the 23rd Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair, jointly organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, launched today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre and will take place over four consecutive days.Hong Kong SAR Government Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Algernon Yau, Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) Acting Executive Director Sophia Chong, and HKTDC Toys Advisory Committee Chairman Bryant Chan officiated the Joint Opening Ceremony of the Toys & Games Fair and Baby Products Fair today, launching the 51st edition of Asia's flagship Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair.Algernon Yau, HKSAR Government Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, said at the opening ceremony: "Entering the 51st year of the Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, I have full confidence that the event, together with the concurrent Hong Kong Baby Products Fair, will continue to feature different innovative and distinctive products that are intriguing to all and, more importantly, facilitate business promotion and consolidate Hong Kong's position as a global sourcing as well as convention and exhibition hub."Sophia Chong, HKTDC Acting Executive Director, said: "This year's Toy Fair marks an important milestone and a new chapter for the toy industry. The three fairs are themed New Play for All, and feature multiple zones, from toys for infants and toddlers to collectible toys designed for adults with a childlike spirit, as well as STEM education toys, smart-tech toys & games and green toys, catering to the needs of all age groups and meeting market demand."The three fairs have drawn over 2,500 exhibitors from 34 countries and regions, including pavilions from Hong Kong, Mainland China, Asia and Europe, presenting cross-industry business opportunities to visitors. The HKTDC has proactively arranged more than 200 buying missions from over 40 countries and regions, and invited various Hong Kong-based international buyers and local enterprises including several large international e-commerce platforms, importers, department stores, specialty stores, retail chains, and procurement offices, creating new opportunities for the industry," added Chong.Three fairs reveal multiple product trendsSeveral product trends from this year's exhibitors provide visitors from other industries with cross-industry business opportunities. These include:- Digitised products: Many traditional toy and game manufacturers and brands are integrating electronics and new technologies with toys to enhance playability, such as the Dynamie Pixel Piano (Booth: 1E-C02), Upset Dog (Booth: 1C-F02), and the NASA Spirit Rover (Booth: 1C-F33).- Learning and play combined: In the hope that kids can learn while having fun, many parents choose toys that can improve cognitive, social, intellectual, and aesthetic development. As a result, there is a greater demand for educational and intellectual products, such as the Giant Panda Anatomy Model (Booth: 1D-C12), Adventure Globe (Booth: 1E-A02), Children's Play Sofa (Booth: 3F-G04), and Water Transfer Painting Set (Booth: 5B-B01).- Demand for sustainable products: As sustainable consumption has grown, more parents are inclined to choose eco-friendly toys to reduce their environmental impact. Examples include straw DIY marble run blocks (Booth: 1C-D02) and the Voices of Nature series of puzzles (Booth: 1D-A08).- Cross-age groups products: There is a growing popularity of toy designs and styles that cater to a wide range of age groups. Toys are no longer just for children; adults and even elderly are collecting toys, making the collectibles market a significant part of the toy industry. The Astro Boy Mechanical Clear Version (Booth: 1D-A26) is one example. The fair is actively developing the ageing market as well. For instance, a Hong Kong exhibitor has designed a wall game suitable for both the elderly and children, where the user must rotate cogs with both hands, and the vibrant visual stimulus helps to enhance concentration and left-right brain coordination (Booth: 1D-D22).Exhibition space growth in multiple zones at the Toys & Games FairToys & Games Fair saw an expansion in exhibition space in two major zones. This includes the Electronic & Remote Control Toys (up 40%) and Educational Toys & Games zones (up 7%). The Green Toys zone makes a welcome return and showcase eco-friendly and innovative products with a Green Leaf Label displayed at the booths of green exhibitors for buyers' easy reference. This year, over 370 exhibitors have the Green Leaf label, an increase of 70% from the last edition.Funded by the Trade and Industrial Organisation Support Fund of the Trade and Industry Department, HKSAR Government, the Toys Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong and FHKI Group 19 (Hong Kong Toys Council) present the first ESG Pavilion to showcase toys incorporating Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) elements, including products made entirely from eco-friendly or recycled materials. Exhibitors are using various creative methods to promote sustainable development, emphasising the value of social responsibility and ESG fundamentals.This year's Toys Fair has an impressive pavilion lineup, including exhibitors from Mainland China, Taiwan and Korea, as well as selected European exhibitors at the Spielwarenmesse eG's World of Toys Pavilion. Exhibits include Glow-in-the-Dark Slime (Booth: 1CON-068), Genius Square board game (Booth: 1CON-061), and more. The Hong Kong Brand Toy Association (HKBTA) Pavilion once again promotes the local creative industry and trendy toy products to international buyers.Record number of exhibitors at Baby Products FairWith more than 660 exhibitors, this year's Hong Kong Baby Products Fair boasts the most exhibitors ever. The popular ODM Strollers and Gear zone is back for the second consecutive year, featuring over 80 exhibitors, making it easier than ever for buyers to source products from original design manufacturers. The Selection of Europe Pavilion returns and feature, for the first time, the UK's Baby Products Industry Association putting a spotlight on quality European baby brands and products, such as cribs and hearing protection earmuffs. This year sees the return of several popular pavilions, including well-known Korean and Hong Kong Children, Babies, Maternity Industries Association pavilions. Making their debut this year is the Zhejiang Zhili pavilion presents an array of high-quality infant and children's clothing.The Toys & Games and Baby Products Fairs continue to feature the popular Brand Name Gallery, bringing together over 380 well-known brands from around the globe, including ABC Design, AURORA, Eastcolight, Hape, Masterkidz, Osann, Rastar, Uncle Bubble and Welly, allowing buyers to source the latest designs and high-quality products from a variety of brands.Jointly organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, the Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair features the latest school and office supplies, creative art supplies and gift stationery. Various high-quality stationery brands are showcased, including 555, AP Group, CJP, Chung Tin, Colorlutions, Diakakis, Kaywin, Kuoda, Marshmallow, MUST, Renga, Sayyed, Tercel and Zhengda, among others, presenting innovative products.Asian Toys & Games Forum explores the important roles of toys everyday lifeThe Asian Toys & Games Forum will be held tomorrow (7 January). Themed Beyond Fun and Play: Fostering Social Responsibility in the Toy Industry, international toy and game industry experts will discuss the industry's latest topics, including The Toys and Games Market Outlook and Opportunities by Clifton Chiu, Senior Research Analyst, Euromonitor International (Hong Kong), The Power of Play for Healthcare and Wellness by Dr Vinci Cheung, Psychologist, Head of Family and Child Services, The Companions CCM Ltd, Integrating AI Smart Toys into Social Life by Larry Wang, Founder & CEO, FoloToy Creative Pte Ltd, and Designing Toys for Active and Better Ageing by Dr Sittha Sukkasi, Senior Researcher in Environment Research Group, MTEC, NSTDA, while a representative of the Hong Kong Toys Council will host the discussion and explore with the speakers on the opportunities for the toys industry in the health sector and the ageing market.In today's The Evolution of Stationery in the Digital Era at the Stationery & School Supplies Fair, John Yeung from Google Hong Kong, Professor Siu Cheung Kong from The Education University of Hong Kong and Mike Cheung from Microsoft Hong Kong will dive into the new demands for stationery from the current Generation Z, Generation Alpha, and the ageing market, as well as the profound impact of artificial intelligence and technology on the field of education.Other seminars will cover popular topics such green toys trend, green stationery, baby products market trends, latest toy safety regulations, toy specifications, testing and certification. Helping buyers and sellers to broaden their business networks and learn about the most recent market trends, there are many networking events, buyer forums, product demo and launch pad, and seminars throughout the fair period.The three exhibitions offer buyers a one-stop sourcing platform, creating more cross-industry business opportunities. Under the EXHIBITION+ model, the fairs integrate physical exhibition and the Click2Match smart business platform for online business meetings. The online exhibition is accessible until 16 January, to sustain and create greater business opportunities for the industry. Buyers can also scan QR codes at exhibitor booths using the Scan2Match service to bookmark their favourite exhibitors, browse product information and engage with exhibitors even after the fair to make for more business connections.Photo Download: https://bit.ly/4gLIIBBThe Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, Hong Kong Baby Products Fair and Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair open today. The four-day fairs run until 9 January at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, bringing together more than 2,500 global exhibitors from 34 countries and regions(Front row, from left to right) HKTDC Toys Advisory Committee Chairman, Bryant Chan, Hong Kong SAR Government Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Algernon Yau, HKTDC Acting Executive Director, Sophia Chong, and the Toys Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong President, Mr Samson Ko officiated the Joint Opening Ceremony of the Toys & Games Fair and Baby Products Fair todayThe first ESG pavilion at the Toys Fair showcases toys incorporating Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) elementsThis year's Toys Fair has an impressive pavilion lineup, with exhibitors from Hong Kong, Mainland China, Taiwan, and Korea, as well as the World of Toys Pavilion to promote creative products to international buyersThe Toys & Games and Baby Products Fairs continue to feature the popular Brand Name Gallery, bringing together over 380 well-known brands from around the globeWith more than 660 exhibitors, this year's Hong Kong Baby Products Fair boasts the most exhibitors ever. This photo shows a booth at the "Selection of Europe" PavilionHong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair showcases creative art supplies, gift stationery and the latest school and office suppliesFair WebsitesHKTDC Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair: hktoyfair.hktdc.comHKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair: hkbabyfair.hktdc.comHong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair: hkstationeryfair.comMedia enquiresPlease contact HKTDC's Communication & Public Affairs Department:Sharon Ha Tel: 2584 4575 Email: sharon.mt.ha@hktdc.orgJane Cheung Tel: 2584 4137 Email: jane.mh.cheung@hktdc.orgAbout the HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.Source: HKTDCCopyright 2025 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - January 6, 2025) - Compass Gold Corp. (TSXV: CVB) (Compass or the Company) is pleased to provide an update on its plans to produce gold at the Massala prospect located along the 15 km Tarabala Trend, which is contained within the Company's Sikasso Property in southern Mali. (See Figure 1.) Highlights Existing SMAT Mining Facility to be modified to allow for initial bulk sampling of Compass ore at a rate of up to 30 tonnes per hour Bulk sampling planned for February will provide recovery data and help optimize the final plant design Documentation for a Small Mine Permit Application at Massala is being completed, which includes a project viability study*, mine closure plan, community development plan and environmental permit. The project viability study and mine closure plan have been completed. The Community Development Plan and Environmental Impact Study are underway and due to be completed in February Subject to receiving the Small Mine Permit, commercial production on track to commence by early Q2 Compass CEO Larry Phillips, said, "Progress is going extremely well on our Massala Small Mine project. Our Compass team in Mali is working diligently with the SMAT group and expert consultants to expedite the Small Mine application process and prepare the SMAT mining facility for commercial production. We have completed a detailed project viability report. The remaining studies required by the Ministry of Mines are underway and should be completed in the next 60 days. Our team is also working with SMAT and an independent engineering group to complete a modification of the existing mining facility to allow for bulk sampling of our Massala ore before the end of February. This sampling will provide crucial information on gold recovery and the optimal design of the crushing and processing facilities. Together with SMAT, our co-production partner, the objective is to design a mining operation with the capacity to process up to 100 tonnes per hour." "All of this technical work will be critical to achieving the first commercial production at Massala. Provided that the necessary permits are received, our objective remains the same-to pour gold by the second quarter of this year." Ratification of the Toll-Treating Agreement As previously reported (see Compass news released dated October 28, 2024) Compass has entered into an agreement for a joint production and toll-treating arrangement with SMAT, a Malian business group, regarding the use of its small mining facility. The SMAT facility is located 2 km from the Massala mine site and is adjacent to Compass's proposed Massala-Tarabala mining permit. This existing facility is currently being upgraded with the addition of a primary crushing unit, with the aim of processing ore at an initial rate of up to 30 tonnes per hour. The ultimate objective is to operate a facility with a production capacity of 100 tonnes per hour. Compass and its joint-venture partner have targeted Q1, 2025 for the SMAT processing facility to be operational and Compass to have secured the required Mining Permit authorizing this joint toll-treating agreement. This total annual gold production and ore processing will fall within the provisions of the Malian Mining Code for Small Mines, as proclaimed in July of this year. (See Compass news release dated August 19, 2024). This code allows for mining a maximum of 200,000 tonnes per year and the production of 160,000 ounces of gold over a four-year period. Figure 1: Location of Massala and Tarabala prospects in relation to the SMAT processing plant. The Tarabala trend is defined by the zone of gold mineralization identified by Compass drilling. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/1861/236050_70df2f7a24824b63_001full.jpg Application for a Small Mine Permit and Bulk Sample Collection The Company is preparing its application for a Small Mine permit to be submitted with the Malian authorities in February, provided the Ministry has resumed the process of accepting applications. . The application will include a project viability study that conforms to the Malian Ministry of Mines guidelines and an environmental study, both required by the law. Community engagement negotiations are also ongoing to ensure cordial relations are maintained in the project area and the surrounding communities. An application has been made by Compass to collect a bulk sample of representative near surface mineralization from the Massala resource area. The material will be used to test and optimize the equipment at the SMAT plant. (*The project viability study required by the Malian authorities is not a CIM-defined Feasibility Study outlined in NI 43-101, since no resource estimation or metallurgy study has been performed, and was prepared solely in connection with the Company's application for a Small Mine Permit at Massala.) Granting of Options The Board of Directors has approved the issuance of 4,180,000 options to officers, employees and consultants of the Company. Each option is exercisable into one common share of the Company (each, a "Common Share") at an exercise price of $0.19 per Common Share and having a term of five years. The total number of outstanding options under the Company's plan, including the grant above, is now 5,696,000 options or approximately 5.5% of the outstanding Common Shares. The Stock Option Plan allows for up to 10% of the outstanding Common Shares to be reserved for stock options. In the last year, option grants previously issued to officers and directors of the company have expired and as follows: 775,000 expired on May 22, 2024, and 935,000 expired December 15, 2024. About Compass Gold Corp. Compass, a public company having been incorporated into Ontario, is a Tier 2 issuer on the TSX- V. Through the 2017 acquisition of MGE and Malian subsidiaries, Compass holds gold exploration permits located in Mali that comprise the Sikasso Property. The exploration permits are located in three sites in southern Mali with a combined land holding of 1,173 sq. km. The Sikasso Property is located in the same region as several multi-million-ounce gold projects, including Morila, Syama, Kalana and Komana. The Company's Mali-based technical team, led in the field by Dr. Madani Diallo and under the supervision of Dr. Sandy Archibald, P.Geo, is conducting the current exploration program. They are examining numerous anomalies first noted in Dr. Archibald's August 2017 "National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report on the Sikasso Property, Southern Mali." Qualified Person This news release has been reviewed and approved by EurGeol. Dr. Sandy Archibald, P.Geo, Compass's Technical Director, the Qualified Person for the technical information in this news release under National Instrument 43-101 standards. Forward-Looking Information This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements regarding the Company's planned exploration work and management appointments. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by such information. The statements in this news release are made as of the date hereof. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information except as required by applicable law. For further information, please contact: Website: www.compassgoldcorp.com NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236050 SOURCE: Compass Gold Corporation Reinforces company's commitment to differentiated solutions that enable faster and more effective drug development HUB's organoid offering complements company's cell culture portfolio of media, reagents, and benchtop instrumentation Organoids provide drug response data earlier in the development process while helping to maintain project scale Merck, a leading science and technology company, announced the closing of the transaction to acquire HUB Organoids Holding B.V. (HUB) following regulatory clearances and the fulfilment of other customary closing conditions. The acquisition, which closed on December 23, 2024, is a strategic step aligned with the company's commitment to providing novel next-generation biology solutions to the life science industry, specifically by enabling wider access to HUB's technology for more faster and more effective drug development. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250106594037/en/ Merck scientist working in company's Burlington, MA, USA cell culture facility (Photo: Business Wire) "The use of organoids offers tremendous potential to improve the drug discovery process," said Jean-Charles Wirth, Head of Science and Lab Solutions, Life Science business of Merck. "HUB's advanced technology, combined with our cell culture expertise and broad portfolio, makes us a valuable resource for researchers looking to leverage the power of 3D cell culture to understand the impact of drug response earlier in the development process." HUB possesses the foundational patent portfolio on organoids and a robust service offering ranging from new model generation to assay development and high-throughput screening, enhancing Merck's offering of cell culture tools to academia, biotech, and pharma customers. The team of approximately 70 employees is celebrating the acquisition together at the HUB campus in Utrecht, Netherlands. About Merck Merck, a leading science and technology company, operates across life science, healthcare and electronics. Around 63,000 employees work to make a positive difference to millions of people's lives every day by creating more joyful and sustainable ways to live. From providing products and services that accelerate drug development and manufacturing as well as discovering unique ways to treat the most challenging diseases to enabling the intelligence of devices the company is everywhere. In 2023, Merck generated sales of 21 billion in 65 countries. Scientific exploration and responsible entrepreneurship have been key to Merck's technological and scientific advances. This is how Merck has thrived since its founding in 1668. The founding family remains the majority owner of the publicly listed company. Merck holds the global rights to the Merck name and brand. The only exceptions are the United States and Canada, where the business sectors of Merck operate as MilliporeSigma in life science, EMD Serono in healthcare, and EMD Electronics in electronics. All Merck press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck website. Please go to www.merckgroup.com/subscribe to register online, change your selection or discontinue this service. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250106594037/en/ Contacts: Media Relations rachel.bloom-baglin@merckgroup.com Phone: +49 (6151) 72-44461 Carefully planned leadership transition ensures continuity and renewal. Merz has been under the ownership of its founding family since its establishment in 1908. Merz Holding GmbH Co. KG serves as the parent company for all operational units of Merz Group. The leadership team of the Family Holding is composed of three representatives from the Merz founding family. As of January 1st, 2025, the baton is passed on to the younger shareholder generation. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250106752941/en/ Copyright: Stefanie Wetzel. From left to right: Andreas Meyer, Michael Nick, Dr. Dania Huckmann, Dr. Sebastian Schellhaas, Christian Baatz The previous management of Merz Holding GmbH Co. KG consisted of the three shareholders Christian Baatz, Andreas Meyer and Michael Nick. After more than 12 years in their roles as managing directors, Andreas Meyer and Michael Nick hand over their responsibilities to shareholders Dr. Dania Huckmann and Dr. Sebastian Schellhaas. Christian Baatz will remain a managing director. Alongside Christian Baatz, Dr. Dania Huckmann and Dr. Sebastian Schellhaas will also become members of the Merz Holding Board, which is responsible for all strategic decisions across the Merz Group. In addition to the three family representatives, the Merz Holding Board includes the two managing directors of the operational Merz Holding Philip Burchard and Hans-Jorg Bergler as well as Dr. Christian Holzherr. Philip Burchard will continue as chairman of the Merz Holding Board, while Christian Baatz will take over the role of vice chairman from Andreas Meyer. The generational transition has been in the works for an extended period and is the result of an intensive, structured program designed to optimally prepare the new managing directors for their responsibilities. This transition ensures both continuity in the ownership strategy and renewal through the handover to a younger generation. Andreas Meyer and Michael Nick look back on their time at Merz with joy and pride: "Over the past 12 years, Merz has undergone significant transformation and developed into a diversified corporate group with multiple successful business ventures." They expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the family, management, and all employees for their dedication and support, which were critical to the company's success. Christian Baatz, Dr. Dania Huckmann, and Dr. Sebastian Schellhaas are grateful for the trust placed in them by the owner family and look forward to collaborating with all employees to ensure the continued success of the entire Merz Group in the future. About Merz Group Merz Group is a global, diversified company in the healthcare sector based in Frankfurt, Germany. Family-owned for over 116 years, the company is distinguished by its commitment to innovation, long-term perspective, and focus on profitable and sustainable growth. Merz Group includes the businesses Merz Aesthetics, Merz Therapeutics, Merz Consumer Care, Merz Real Estate, Merz Financial Investments and Merz Private Markets. The company employs 4,727 people (as of the 23/24 financial year) in 30 countries worldwide. To learn more, please visit https://www.merz.com/. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250106752941/en/ Contacts: Merz Asset Management Holding GmbH Co. KG Communications Karolina Dzeko-Balke Telephone number: +49 (0) 69 1503 2749 E-mail: karolina.dzeko-balke@merz.de Grant recipients include nonprofits that offer access to safe, affordable housing and homebuyer education NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / January 6, 2025 / U.S. Bank U.S. Bank employees Rebecca Stichter (left) and Nicci Balzer volunteer at Humility Homes & Services, Inc., which supports people experiencing housing insecurity in the greater Quad Cities area. Originally published on U.S. Bank company blog A safe, affordable home helps children, families and communities thrive. That's why the U.S. Bank Community Possible program supports nonprofit organizations focused on creating stable, healthy home environments as part of its unified giving and employee engagement platform. The U.S. Bank Foundation recently distributed more than $9 million in Community Possible grants to 400+ nonprofits. The grants go to organizations working to provide opportunities for people to work, live and play, and in addition to financial support, many of those nonprofits welcome U.S. Bank employees to volunteer in the communities they call home. In Davenport, Iowa, U.S. Bank Business Card Consultant Kelly McCarthy lends her expertise to Humility Homes & Services, Inc. (HHSI) as a board member, first serving on the finance committee before moving to the capital campaign committee. The organization works with people in the Quad Cities area experiencing housing insecurity, with programs that help individuals and families with rapid rehousing, eviction prevention and access to affordable rental housing. "It was eye-opening for me to learn about what Humility Homes & Services, Inc. does and the people it supports. I felt impelled and connected to its mission," said McCarthy, who also joins local U.S. Bank employees to volunteer at the organization's Corner Closet Donation Center, which provides clothing and household items to HHSI program participants. HHSI also maintains more than 130 rental housing units for its clients, which include seniors, veterans and people with disabilities. A Community Possible grant helps the organization perform home energy audits and maintain repairs and upkeep to its properties, including installing ramps for tenants who use wheelchairs. One tenant recently expressed his appreciation, noting "Since I have been in my chair for the last three months, I am mainly confined to the house. Without help getting off the porch, it is very difficult for me to do anything. With getting this ramp, it gives me freedom to do for myself. It's like giving me my life back." "The impact U.S. Bank and the U.S. Bank Foundation have had on those who live in our affordable housing units isn't defined just by the financial support received but rather is defined by the feelings tenants have knowing they have a safe, well-cared-for place to call home," HHSI President and CEO Ashley Velez said. "Humility Homes & Services, Inc. cannot create a sense of community, safety and home for those who live in our units without the support of our community and business partners. We are also honored to have Kelly be a part of our board of directors and appreciate her vision and leadership." The Housing Fund (THF) in Nashville, Tennessee, also focuses on increasing access to affordable housing. As a community development financial institution (CDFI), THF provides capital, loans and tailored services to support low- to moderate-income communities. "The Housing Fund aligns closely with the programs we champion, emphasizing economic development, wealth-building, and the provision of safe, affordable housing," said Jeff Mills, U.S. Bank community affairs manager and a member of THF's advisory board. Nashville's rapid population growth , rising property values and increasing taxes have made it more challenging for families with limited incomes to remain in their homes. THF addresses these challenges by offering funding for home rehabilitation projects that enhance health and safety, energy efficiency and accessibility. In addition to financial assistance, homeowners participate in sessions on financial and estate planning so they can protect their estates for long-term stability and wealth creation. With support from a Community Possible grant, THF helps clients manage legal costs for essential activities such as creating wills or trusts, purchasing life insurance and building emergency funds. "Our mission is to ensure that everyone, regardless of income, has the opportunity to live in a safe, sustainable, and affordable home. By pairing financial assistance with estate and financial planning resources, we're helping homeowners protect their legacy and contribute to the strength of our neighborhoods," said Marshall Crawford, president and CEO of THF. The U.S. Bank Foundation provided more than $47 million in grants in 2024, which includes giving through the Community Possible program and the U.S. Bank Foundation Opportunity Fund. U.S. Bank Foundation is a tax-exempt private foundation described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Foundation is funded primarily through contributions from U.S. Bank National Association and its affiliates and subsidiaries. The Foundation's mission is to close the gaps between people and possibility in the areas of work, home, and play. The Opportunity Fund represents a financial commitment of the U.S. Bank Foundation; it is not a traditional equity fund, nor does it represent a form of ownership. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from U.S. Bank on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: U.S. Bank Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/us-bank Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: U.S. Bank View the original press release on accesswire.com Wesco ESG oversight NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / January 6, 2025 / Wesco International Read the 2024 Wesco Sustainability Report here ESG Oversight The Board is committed to supporting the company's efforts to conduct its business in a principled, transparent and accountable manner. The Board believes that its effective oversight of ESG matters is central to its risk oversight function. The Nominating and Governance Committee is responsible for oversight of significant ESG matters, and the Audit and Compensation Committees are delegated responsibility for oversight of specific ESG topics. Audit: Responsible for Business Ethics, Cybersecurity, Regulatory Compliance and Legal compliance. Also responsible for ESG-related impacts on our financial reporting and ESG-related disclosures. Compensation: Responsible for Human Capital Management, Talent, Human Rights, Labor Standards, Health and Safety and Inclusion & Diversity. Also responsible for programs and policies related to the foregoing topics. Nominating and Governance: Responsible for Shareholder Rights, Board Structure, Climate Change Impact, Waste, Water and Energy, Supply Chain Transparency and Product Lifecycle Management. Also responsible for oversight of significant ESG matters not delegated to another Committee. Management Teams work with senior leaders to set strategy and develop goals to embed sustainability and ESG objectives across our organization. Board of Directors Demographic Highlights: Diverse directors in terms of gender, race or ethnicity: 60% Female directors: 30% Directors with diversity in terms of race: 40% Audit, Compensation and Nominating & Governance Committee Independence:100% 70% of Board of Directors with environmental, climate and sustainability experience. Defined by experience or expertise working within or overseeing the sustainability function of an organization, or having educational training on relevant environmental, social, and governance related topics. 70% of Board of Directors with human capital, talent, inclusion and diversity experience. Defined by experience working within or overseeing the human resources function of an organization, addressing compensation, benefits, talent, culture, and inclusion and diversity topics. Ethics and Compliance Wesco is firmly committed to operating with the highest levels of ethics and integrity. This commitment is reflected in our global ethics and compliance program, built on four pillars: (i) continuous risk assessments to address ethical and compliance risks, (ii) written standards that set out expected behaviors for employees, managers and other stakeholders, (iii) training and communications to convey expected behaviors, and (iv) monitoring through the use of internal reporting channels, investigations and audits. Our ethics and compliance program operates under the leadership of the Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer (CCO). The work of the CCO is directly supported by Regional Compliance Officers worldwide. The Executive Compliance Committee provide high-level oversight of the program, comprised of Wesco's chief executive officer, chief financial officer, chief human resources officer, general counsel, and vice president of internal audit and chaired by the CCO. The CCO also provides regular program updates to the Audit Committee of Wesco's Board of Directors during its regular meetings. The Wesco Code of Business Conduct (the Code) is the foundation of our ethics and compliance program, setting forth standards and guidance for conducting business with the highest degree of honesty and integrity. It defines the basis for decisions and actions across a range of matters, including preventing corrupt business practices, avoiding conflicts of interest, fostering non-harassment and non-discrimination, and protecting personal and corporate data and information. It applies to everyone associated with Wesco - all directors, officers and employees of its subsidiaries- helping us all comply with the laws and ethical principles governing our business. In many cases, the Code requires higher standards of ethical conduct than what is required by law. We reinforce the principles articulated in the Code to our employees through training and regular communications in local languages. As of 2024, all Wesco employees are annually required to complete Code training and certify that they have read, understand, and agree to comply with the Code. Additional compliance training is also provided to employees based on risks identified in their job roles on topics such as anti-bribery and anti-corruption, conflicts of interest, preventing counterfeit products in our supply chain, and protection of human rights and prevention of modern slavery and human trafficking. Acting on our principles and speaking up about potential violations of our Code, related company policies and the law is required of all employees. Updated in 2023, Our Business Conduct and Duty to Report Policy describes how employees can report legal or ethical concerns and the measures we take to investigate and address such reports. Our Antiretaliation Policy establishes our promise that those who report issues or concerns will be protected from retaliation. Wesco provides multiple channels for employees to seek advice and help on ethics and compliance issues. They are encouraged to discuss the issues with a member of management or human resources. Wesco also provides an option for around-the-clock anonymous reporting through the Wesco Business Integrity Line (unless prohibited by local law). Wesco's Business Integrity Line website and web intake form were also upgraded and reintroduced to our employees through a communications campaign launched in 2023. As we continue to grow and develop our business, we are committed to continuously evaluating and improving our ethics and compliance program. The ethics and compliance office leads an annual review of the Code and related policies to ensure we effectively address and communicate our standards to internal and external stakeholders. Changes are made to the program periodically based on new or updates to existing, applicable laws, emerging and shifting risks and compliance-related trends. The following list provides an overview of our key ethics and compliance program elements, and additional information can be found in the linked policies and on Wesco.com. Ethics and compliance issues that may be out of the scope of our normal operations that are not covered by a specific policy or program are addressed on an individual basis. When appropriate, we create a new policy, training program, or other proactive measure to address the issue. Code of Business Conduct: Defines the basis for decisions and actions across a range of matters, including preventing corrupt business practices, avoiding conflicts of interest, fostering non-harassment and non-discrimination, and protecting personal and corporate data and information. It applies to everyone associated with Wesco - all directors, officers and employees of its subsidiaries - helping us all comply with the laws and ethical principles governing our business. In many cases, the Code requires higher standards of ethical conduct than what is required by law. Global Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy: Global ethics and compliance policy that articulates Wesco's zero-tolerance approach to corrupt business practices. It establishes a framework to prevent and combat bribery and corruption by promoting integrity, transparency, and ethical business practices within Wesco. Human Rights Policy: Articulates Wesco's commitment to adhering to business practices aligned with the principles outlined by the United Nations Global Compact, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises. Internal Audit Program: Wesco's internal audit department performs periodic assessments of location branches, distribution centers, and enterprise-level processes and controls to ensure compliance with our policies. In 2023, 84 operational audits were conducted with satisfactory results. Management implemented Internal Audit's recommendations where appropriate. The internal audit group is also directly involved with the Chief Compliance Officer (CCO) reviewing reported or suspected unethical behavior. It also assists the CCO in conducting special investigations to help enforce the Code of Business Conduct. Business Conduct and Duty to Report Policy: Our ethics and compliance policy that articulates that all Wesco directors, officers and employees are expected to follow high standards of business and personal ethics while carrying out their job responsibilities. It requires all employees to disclose violations of the Code, related policies, or the misappropriation of Wesco funds or assets. It also provides clear instructions on how to use the numerous channels for reporting issues or concerns. Anti-Retaliation (Whistleblower) Policy: Policy designed to create a safe and transparent work environment where employees feel comfortable reporting concerns or participating in internal investigations without fear of reprisal. Anti-Fraud Program: Fraud in any form is not tolerated at Wesco. We fully investigate any suspected acts of fraud, misappropriation, or other similar irregularity regardless of a person's position, title, length of service, or relationship with the company. Anti-fraud guidelines are included in both our Code of Business Conduct and Supplier Code of Conduct. Wesco maintains a robust internal control environment to prevent and detect fraud. Local management serves as the first line of defense in the company against fraud. Senior management, including the corporate controllership, quality assurance, the Vice President, Corporate Ethics and Compliance, and others formulate a second line of defense to prevent and detect fraud. Finally, internal audit, reporting independently to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors, conducts audits and other reviews of controls and business processes with an obligation to use its expertise to identify trends and patterns that might suggest fraud. Diverse Business Contracting Compliance: Wesco supports the growth and development of qualified minority, women and disadvantaged business enterprises (MWDBEs). Our Diverse Business Contracting Compliance Policy helps ensure that we are complying with applicable laws and regulations concerning MWDBE participation on government-funded projects. We are committed to the legitimate participation of properly certified MWDBEs that can and will perform a commercially useful function on the public projects in which they participate. Supplier Code of Conduct: The Supplier Code of Conduct clarifies Wesco's expectations of ethical and responsible corporate business practices for its suppliers. It requires suppliers to conduct their business in compliance with all applicable laws, including those related to employment, protection of human rights, data privacy, health and safety, environmental protection, anticorruption, antitrust and trade sanctions. It also requires suppliers to adopt management systems, policies, procedures, and training to uphold the ethical and legal standards and expectations outlined in it within their business operations. Business Partner Anticorruption Policy: Wesco policy that applies to all suppliers of products or services to Wesco. It extends Wesco's zero-tolerance for corrupt business practices to its supply chain by strictly prohibiting anyone acting on behalf of Wesco, whether directly or indirectly, from making or receiving improper payments, or engaging in any form of corrupt business practices. To learn more, download the 2024 Wesco Sustainability Report here. About This Report Unless otherwise stated, this report covers activities, data and initiatives from our fiscal year 2023. ESG Disclosure and Framework Alignment The topics covered in this report include those that we have determined to be material for our business and stakeholders as noted on page 12. Wesco aligns with several ESG frameworks and disclosures in support of our commitment to transparency and our fulfillment of stakeholder needs and expectations. We leverage the following frameworks and standards to provide robust ESG information disclosure: Global Reporting Initiative (GRI): GRI offers a list of global standards and guidelines around sustainability reporting. Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB): SASB provides a comprehensive set of industry-specific disclosure topics and guidelines. Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD): TCFD provides disclosure recommendations on thematic ESG topics such as governance, strategy, risk management, metrics and targets to provide stakeholders with fuller information surrounding climate risks. CDP: Formerly the Carbon Disclosure Project, CDP is an international organization that helps companies and cities measure and disclose important environmental impact information through an annual questionnaire and rating system. United Nations Global Compact (UNGC): UNGC is an initiative that aims to help businesses align their strategies and work toward the U.N.'s Sustainable Development Goals. United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (U.N. SDGs): U.N. SDGs provide a shared set of 17 toward peace and prosperity for people and planet goals and create a call to action by all countries in a global partnership. We also regularly engage with our investors, employees, customers, regulators, ratings agencies and others on ESG and business issues. Additional information about Wesco can be found in our public financial filings-including our annual report and proxy filings-as well as on the Security and Exchange Commission's website at www.sec.gov or on the Investors page of our website at Wesco.com. Wesco plans to continue to report annually as we monitor, measure, and deepen our ESG initiatives and disclosures. Wesco endorses the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are a call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity. More information about our SDG aligned initiatives is included throughout this report. Assurance We did not seek third-party assurance for this report; however, we will consider doing so for future reporting. The information and data contained in this report was vetted by internal subject matter experts on the various ESG topics included in this report. Contact Us We appreciate and welcome feedback on our ESG initiatives and reporting and invite you to contact us directly via email at Sustainability@Wesco.com. John J. Engel, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer Wesco International View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Wesco International on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Wesco International Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/wesco-international Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Wesco International View the original press release on accesswire.com Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / January 6, 2025 / Clinical trials are essential for the development of health care products, and it is increasingly recognized that there is a need for more diversity in trial participation. With new draft Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines in the US to make Diversity Action Plans mandatory, we showcase Teva's work in this space and highlight its importance in drug development. Did you know that: Local anaesthetic works for a shorter time on people with red hair. Women are more likely to suffer from some adverse side effects of medications because medicine dosages have historically been based on clinical trials conducted in men. Clinical trials are essential for the development of medicines. Without clinical trials and the volunteers who participate in them, we wouldn't have treatments for cancer or lifesaving vaccines. In fact, we wouldn't be able to develop treatments for many of the diseases that negatively affect the human race. It's quite simple - clinical trials are important for advancing the science towards better management of illnesses and better quality of life for those who suffer from them. What is a clinical trial and who takes part? These trials are controlled research studies performed by skilled clinicians with people who volunteer to evaluate the safety and efficacy of potential new drugs or medical devices. But it's not just about testing medicines. Some clinical trials test ways to find or treat life-threatening diseases and chronic conditions. Regulatory organizations including the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA) rely on the results of clinical trials carried out by pharmaceutical companies to decide whether to approve treatments to be used in accordance with the prescribing information for each respective product. So, who are these clinical trial participants? Mainly white people, it turns out. Clinical trial diversity: the stats Since the late 1990s, the number of countries contributing to the clinical-trial data used by FDA to approve drugs has almost doubled (even though 57% of the results still come from study sites in the US). But the diversity of participants taking part hasn't changed very much. Back then, 92% of the participants in these trials were white - 20 years later that figure was 86%. And in 2020? 75%. In fact, in all the medications approved by the FDA in 2020, the clinical trial participants were comprised of: 75% White, 11% Hispanic, 8% Black African American, 6% Asian. Only 30% of the participants were over 65 years of age and more than half of the patients were located in the US. Why does it matter who participates in these trials? We depend upon the available research to know that a drug could be safe and effective, and the likelihood of it causing side effects. But the nature of those effects can vary between people of different ancestry. Some medicines may work in different ways in different population groups and in different ages, genders, etc. Trials that represent the intended patient population will better predict the results and better predict the outcomes for more people if the study population is more diverse. For example, in one study in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), Black people's response to therapy did not last as long as White people's response. Local anaesthetic works for a shorter time on people with red hair. It's believed that women are more likely to suffer from some adverse side effects of medications because medicine dosages have historically been based on clinical trials conducted in men. Being able to assess how different groups respond to different medicines is key to treating conditions. When clinical trials don't include a representative sample of the population, the results may not apply to everyone equally, which can lead to ineffective treatments, unexpected side effects and unexplored potential. But it's not just about ethnicity. Diversity means more than just your ethnic background - it also includes personal, physical, social and economic circumstances, everything from what you look like to where you live, from how much money you make to how you spend it, the school you go to, how you worship and the language you speak. Bringing diversity into clinical trials means more than just increasing the pool of ethnic groups represented. It means including people from all different walks of life. It's clear from the statistics that ethnic groups are massively under-represented when it comes to clinical trials. And so are many other groups - ironically, often the groups who have a higher incidence of a disease and comorbidities (more than one chronic condition), who may have a higher chance of being prescribed the very medicines that treat these conditions. Who is being excluded? Research shows that under-represented groups in clinical trials include the old and the young, the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT+) community and pregnant women or those of child-bearing age that plan to get pregnant. They include those who don't speak the primary language of the country, who are unemployed or on low income, in alternative housing circumstances or remote locations. They also include those who are obese, have mental health conditions, learning disabilities, physical disabilities, multiple health conditions, or addictions. These groups take disproportionately more medicines, but they are largely not involved in clinical trials to assess them. Why? There are many reasons why certain groups are under-represented in trials. From setting the eligibility criteria to the sites who conduct the trials, there are barriers at every step of the process. Take the trial sites for example, often located in areas that are not ethnically or socially diverse. Or the health care professionals who staff them, who may not have the language skills or appreciation for the diverse cultures represented in the local clinical population. Take the patients themselves. Around the world, there are people who are shut out from or have limited access to primary healthcare systems. This has its roots in the inequalities of the world we live in. Research shows that structural inequalities in our communities cause disparities in healthcare. This is something that the medical community is starting to look at and ask, what can we do? But it's not just about being shut out from healthcare - it's also about mistrusting the health system itself. When you look at the statistics, it's clear that low-income respondents express much greater dissatisfaction with healthcare than middle income respondents. In the US only 59% of Black adults as opposed to 78% of White adults have been found to trust doctors. Hesitancy to take the COVID-19 vaccine is highest among Black and Bangladeshi/Pakistani populations in the UK. In Australia, the indigenous community is six times more likely than the White community to leave the hospital against medical advice. New guidance: Diversity Action Plans It's recognized there is a growing need for diversity in this area. In the US, new FDA guidance provides details on Diversity Action Plans required for certain clinical studies. This guidance requires sponsors to submit detailed Diversity Action Plans outlining strategies to enroll a broader range of participants across age, ethnicity, race and sex, aiming to hold sponsors accountable and ensure that diversity is considered from the earliest stages of clinical development. Meanwhile, in Europe, the EMA has a guiding Clinical Trial Regulation explicitly requiring justification of any non-representative procedures. "This isn't just a scientific issue, it's a matter of equity and fairness," says Melissa Grozinski-Wolff, Senior Director Clinical Operations at Teva. "Everyone deserves access to safe and effective treatments, regardless of their race or ethnicity, gender or age." Teva's work in this space A diversity plan will be created at the start of every trial program at Teva, indicating the percentage goal of underrepresented populations that will be included across the studies. Efforts will then be made to identify and select sites that have access to the targeted patient population. Should additional support be needed, this may be provided through diversified vendors who specialize in clinical sites treating minorities so these sites can be included in global studies. But our work goes much deeper than this. According to a recent Deloitte report, Enhancing clinical trial diversity, the top barriers to diverse participation in clinical trials were limited information about clinical trials and not being asked to participate. At Teva we know that many patients lack general awareness of clinical trials, and that this is particularly evident among racially and ethnically diverse patient populations. So it is essential that we engage with community leaders and organizations to better understand the unique challenges these groups face in accessing healthcare and trials. "We are designing trials to make them more accessible to diverse populations, focusing on patient-centered development," says Jessica Marer, Associate Director, Clinical Trial Planning at Teva. "When we talk about innovative design and how we build our studies, part of that is understanding the local population so we can build trials with flexibility to improve access for everybody. For example, sending a medical practitioner on a home visit if access to the clinical site is challenging. We also use technology to improve accessibility by regularly updating participants with appointment, medication and diary reminders." Training modules are provided to our clinical sites to equip our teams with the cultural competency and sensitivity skills needed to work with diverse populations. We recognize that language barriers and other communication challenges can significantly impact participation, so we aim to provide resources including translated materials, multilingual staff and interpreters to ensure that all potential participants fully understand the study and feel comfortable engaging. "As we strive for equitable benefit sharing with the communities we serve, we can actively address the disparities in access to healthcare," says Melissa. Bringing greater diversity into clinical trials is an important way to assess how different groups respond to different medicines, which is key to treating conditions. But it's not just about that. Clinical trial diversity is simply the right thing to do. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Teva Pharmaceutical on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Teva Pharmaceutical Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/teva-pharmaceutical Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Teva Pharmaceutical View the original press release on accesswire.com Los Angeles, California--(Newsfile Corp. - January 6, 2025) - John Fagerholm, CEO and owner of Employer Lawyer LA, applauds recent developments in California's Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) but reminds California employers that vigilance is crucial despite these positive changes. John Fagerholm Represents California Employers At Employer Lawyer LA, the mission is to provide robust legal defense exclusively for California employers. Our decades of experience lies in providing hard-hitting, customized legal strategies. PAGA was enacted in 2004 to allow employees to seek civil penalties on behalf of themselves and other current and former employees for Labor Code violations. Over the years, PAGA has been criticized for its widespread use in litigation against employers, which often resulted in significant penalties. The law was meant to empower employees to act as private attorneys general representing the state's interests in enforcing Labor Code provisions. Why These Changes Matter John Fagerholm of Employer Lawyer LA notes: "While these reforms are a step in the right direction, it's crucial for employers to remember that this is a small victory in the ongoing battle. California employers must still be proactive and aggressive in ensuring compliance with wage and hour laws. One misstep will continue to result in significant penalties and fines." Key Changes Stricter Standing Requirements: For PAGA actions, a plaintiff must have personally suffered the same alleged violation within the past year. Penalty Caps and Discounts: Employers who take "all reasonable steps" to comply with Labor Code provisions if they act in advance of receiving a PAGA notice will face a maximum penalty of 15%, whereas if compliance steps are undertaken post-notification, the penalty increases to 30%. Manageability and Limitations: Courts can restrict trial scope and evidence to manage claims effectively. Increased Employee Awards: Employees will receive 35% of civil penalties, up from 25%, ensuring they have a greater share of settlement proceeds and awards. The distribution share to the LWDA has been decreased from 75% down to 65%. Expert Guidance for California Employers Employer Lawyer LA remains dedicated to protecting the rights of California business owners. John Fagerholm, with decades of experience, emphasizes the importance of staying informed and proactively addressing any PAGA-related issues. John Fagerholm added: "In this latest breakthrough, the business sector had to push hard to secure this compromise. They mobilized with force. They raised substantial funds and gathered hundreds of thousands of signatures. At the end of the day it was the threat of a November ballot measure which left the Democratic led legislative body no choice but to work in good faith. This PAGA reform has been 20 years in the making and stands as a testament to the unwavering resolve of our amazing California business community." For more information on how the updated PAGA legislation impacts your business and to receive expert legal guidance, visit Employer Lawyer LA. About Employer Lawyer LA At Employer Lawyer LA our mission is to safeguard the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives within California's small and mid-sized businesses against the complexities of employment litigation. We are dedicated to providing robust legal defense exclusively for California employers. Recognizing the unique challenges that businesses face, we stand as an unwavering ally, delivering empathetic, strategic, and effective legal solutions to foster a secure and just business environment where companies can flourish and focus on their growth and success. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236132 SOURCE: Employer Lawyer LA Houston, Texas--(Newsfile Corp. - January 6, 2025) - Athre Facial Plastics, a leading provider of advanced aesthetic procedures, is setting a new standard in facial rejuvenation with its innovative 4D facelift. This groundbreaking approach, designed to restore natural volume and contour, offers patients a tailored experience under local anesthesia for a safer, faster recovery. Dr. Raghu Athre, MD FACS, certified in Otolaryngology & Head/Neck Surgery. With permission. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8977/234024_0e592f7194431853_001full.jpg At Athre Facial Plastics, 98% of procedures are performed using local anesthesia with oral sedation, allowing patients to remain awake and experience minimal bruising and swelling compared to traditional general anesthesia methods. The 4D facelift incorporates the high SMAS technique to lift deeper facial tissues and deep plane methods to rejuvenate the mid-face and jawline. These procedures are complemented by fat transfers that replenish volume and promote skin texture and collagen production through stem cell activation. About Athre Facial Plastics Dr. Raghu Athre has established himself as one of Houston's leading facial plastic surgeons. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8977/234024_0e592f7194431853_002full.jpg Dr. Raghu Athre, the founder of Athre Facial Plastics, is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon specializing in aesthetic and reconstructive procedures of the face and neck. With a background in engineering and extensive surgical training, Dr. Athre combines precision and artistry to deliver results that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Known for his compassionate care and meticulous attention to detail, Dr. Athre has earned a reputation as one of Houston's premier facial plastic surgeons. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/234024 SOURCE: Hexa PR Wire WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Alaska Airlines (ALK) on Monday announced the appointment of John Wiitala as its new Vice President of Maintenance and Engineering.In the new role, Wiitala will oversee a team of professionals responsible for ensuring the safety and compliance standards for over 237 Boeing aircraft across several maintenance bases.His responsibilities will also include overseeing line maintenance, airframe, component, and engine maintenance, as well as quality assurance, maintenance planning, engineering, reliability, and fleet projects.Wiitala joins Alaska after 34 years at United Airlines, where he most recently served as vice president and chief engineer, overseeing tech operations, safety, and compliance for the United fleet.Monday, ALK closed at $64.40 or 0.66% higher, aftermarket hours slightly rose and closed at $64.41or 0.02%.Copyright(c) 2025 RTTNews.com. All Rights ReservedCopyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. To embrace even broader prospects in pursuing Chinese modernization 09:48, January 06, 2025 By He Yin ( People's Daily "On the new journey of Chinese modernization, everyone is a key actor, every effort counts, and every ray of light shines," said Chinese President Xi Jinping in his 2025 New Year message. When delivering the New Year message, Xi reviewed the extraordinary journey completed by the Chinese people under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC) over the past year, pooling the powerful collective force of all Chinese people striving in unity. A light show is held on the Huxi campus of Sichuan Fine Arts Institute in Shapingba district, southwest China's Chongqing municipality, Dec. 31, 2024. (People's Daily Online/Sun Kaifang) His message demonstrated to the world China's firm determination and confidence in building itself into a strong country and advancing national rejuvenation on all fronts through Chinese modernization. The year 2024 was a crucial year for achieving the objectives and tasks laid down in the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025). In the face of challenges posed by evolving dynamics at home and abroad, the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core has united and led the entire Party and the Chinese people of all ethnic groups to respond calmly with a full range of policies, made solid gains in pursuing high-quality development, and successfully accomplished the main targets and tasks of economic and social development for the year. China's GDP in 2024 is expected to pass 130 trillion yuan ($17.81 trillion) mark, as the country takes new solid strides in advancing Chinese modernization. An article published on the website of Kenyan newspaper The Standard said that China's development story is one "of a vision realized through concerted effort and determination." The recently published results of China's fifth national economic census showed that as the world's second-largest economy, China's average contribution to global economic growth has remained around 30 percent for the past five years, making it the largest driving force behind world economic growth. Promoting green and innovation-driven development Over the past year, China has made solid progress in green development and sci-tech innovation, continuously writing a new chapter of high-quality development. Green and low-carbon development has been further enhanced in China, unfolding a more beautiful country. China has also fostered new quality productive forces in light of actual conditions. New business sectors, forms and models have kept emerging. Photo taken on Dec. 30, 2024 shows beautiful lanterns in a cultural block in Nanning, south China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region. (People's Daily Online/Yu Xiangquan) The Taklimakan Desert, the largest desert in China and the second-largest drifting desert in the world, has been completely encircled with a sand-blocking green belt stretching over 3,000 kilometers. Besides, China's annual production of new energy vehicles has surpassed 10 million milestone for the first time. A recent report by the Financial Times pointed out that electric vehicles are expected to outsell cars with internal combustion engines in China for the first time in 2025 in a historic inflection point. According to the Global Innovation Index 2024 released by the World Intellectual Property Organization, China has moved up to the 11th place in the ranking of the world's most innovative economies, making it one of the fastest risers over the past decade. Putting people's well-being front and center "Of all the jobs in front of us, the most important is to ensure a happy life for our people," Xi said in his 2025 New Year message. Everywhere in China, people in all fields - workers, builders and entrepreneurs, among others - are working hard to fulfill their dreams, enjoying enriching lives. This vibrant scene fully demonstrates that China has followed a people-centered approach, insisting that development is for the people, reliant on the people, and that its fruits should be shared by the people, which is the precondition for the country to have the right view of development and modernization and build the great momentum of its march forward in the new era. Workers are welding the frame of a new energy vehicle (NEV) on the production line at a factory of Chinese carmaker Chery Holding Group Co., Ltd. in Wuhu, east China's Anhui province, Dec. 12, 2024. (People's Daily Online/Cheng Yibao) China's "journey of modernization is not just about material wealth; it is deeply rooted in a people-centered philosophy. The fruits of Chinese modernization have been transformed into tangible improvements in the quality of life for ordinary citizens," as reported by Bangladesh's Weekly Blitz. Greeting 2025 with hope and confidence "We will march forward in great strides to advance reform and opening up as the trend of our times. We will surely embrace even broader prospects in pursuing Chinese modernization in the course of reform and opening up," said Xi. At its Third Plenary Session, the 20th CPC Central Committee sounded a clarion call for further deepening all-round reform. The year 2025 will see the conclusion of China's 14th Five-Year Plan. China will adhere to the general principle of pursuing progress while maintaining stability, fully and faithfully implement the new development philosophy on all fronts, and accelerate the building of a new development paradigm. It will implement more proactive and effective policies, pursue high-quality development as a top priority, promote greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology, and maintain sound momentum in economic and social development. The country will fulfill the goals and tasks of the 14th Five-Year Plan with high quality, and lay a solid foundation for getting the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) off to a good start. As the years turn and new chapters unfold, China will remain confident, continue to grow in the wind and rain, and get stronger through hard times as always. With unwavering determination, China will forge a new path of harmony and prosperity, making more contributions to world peace and development. (Web editor: Chang Sha, Du Mingming) New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - January 6, 2025) - MiMedia Holdings Inc. (TSXV: MIM) (OTCQB: MIMDF) (FSE: KH3) ("MiMedia" or the "Company") announced today that, further to its press release of December 20, 2024, it has issued 1,240,000 subordinate voting shares of the Company (the "Interest Payment Shares") to settle the interest owing as of December 31, 2024 to holders of its outstanding 10% Unsecured Convertible Debentures (the "Debentures"). The Interest Payment Shares were issued at the Market Price (as defined in TSX Venture Exchange Policy 1.1 - Interpretation) per subordinate voting share of the Company on December 31, 2024, being $0.25. The Debentures were issued pursuant to the Convertible Debenture Indenture between the Company and Odyssey Trust Company dated March 14, 2023, as supplemented by a supplemental convertible debenture indenture dated July 20, 2023. The issuance of the Interest Payment Shares remains subject to the final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. About MiMedia MiMedia Holdings Inc. provides a next-generation consumer cloud platform that enables all types of personal media to be secured in the cloud, accessed seamlessly at any time, across all devices and on all operating systems. The company's platform differentiates with its rich media experience, robust organization tools, private sharing capabilities and features that drive content re-engagement. MiMedia partners with smartphone makers and telecom carriers globally and provides its partners with recurring revenue streams, improved customer retention and market differentiation. The platform services millions of engaged users around the world. NEITHER THE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236239 SOURCE: MiMedia Holdings Inc. The BSE Sensex closed at 77,964.99 down 1,258.12 points or 1.59 per cent on Monday, January 6, 2025, while Nifty 50 ended the days trade at 23,628 down 376.75 points or 1.57 per cent read more Indian benchmark indices - BSE Sensex and Nifty 50 - on Monday ended over 1.50 per cent down with more that 320 stocks hitting a lower circuit limits as India logged first case of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) with three confirmed cases reported in the country - two in Karnatakas Bengaluru and one in Gujarat. China, where the deadly Covid-19 originated about five years ago, has again been the first nation to experience the outbreak of HMPV with hospitals overwhelmed with patients of the respiratory virus that causes flu-like symptoms and has no vaccine yet. Advertisement On Monday, BSE Sensex fell 1,258.12 points or 1.59 per cent to close at 77,964.99, while Nifty 50 was down 376.75 points or 1.57 per cent to end the days trade at 23,628. During the day, the BSE Sensex nosedived 1,441.49 points, or 1.81 per cent, to hit an intraday low of 77,781.62. The broader NSE Nifty fell 452.85 points, or 1.88 per cent, to touch 23,551.90. A combination of domestic and global factors contributed to pulling down the Indian stock market on Monday. 1 - Indias first HMPV case Panic stuck investors on Monday after India reported its first case of HMPV with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) confirming two infants - a 3-month-old female and an 8-month-old male - were tested positive at Baptist hospital in Karnatakas Bengaluru. Market analyst Nirav Karkera, Head of Research, Fisdom said todays move is knee-jerk in nature unless the virus situation evolves into something more adverse. The first set of HMPV virus cases have been identified in India only very recently. The onset coincides with the ongoing flu season making it difficult to exactly ascertain the extent to which this illness could have spread. However, the Union Ministry for Health has reassured preparedness in managing any such onset of respiratory illnesses. This is a developing situation. It is expected that any negative reactions by market participants would also be limited to the extent of it being knee-jerk in nature. In absence of any further adverse development being recognised or reported, one can expect limited downside across indices, especially in terms of declines that can be exclusively attributed to this illness outbreak, Karkera said. Manish Chowdhury, Head of Research at StoxBox, said: Market sentiment may have turned a little sour due to initial HMPV cases found in India, but its impact may be limited as the fatality seems to be lower compared to the Covid virus. 2 - Q3 earnings woes The Indian stock market also ended in red as investors remained jittery ahead of the third quarter, or Q3, results that will start coming out from January 9 with Tata Consultancy Services. Also, weak business updates from key sectors, especially banking and FMCG, have further dampened sentiment. Advertisement Looking ahead, the directionality of the markets will be influenced by third-quarter earnings, Vinod Nair, head of research at Geojit Financial Services, was quoted as saying by Reuters. 3 - Broad-based selling: Monday witnessed all the sectors face the selling pressure with metal, FMCG, PSU bank stocks falling over 2 per cent. The India VIX, a measure of market fear or volatility, surged by 17 per cent amidst broad-based selling pressure affecting both mid and small-cap stocks across various sectors. 4 - Weak Asian markets Not just the Indian stock market, most Asian markets traded lower as investors are cautious over the potential changes by US President-elect Donald Trump, who has vowed to raise tariffs on imports from China and other countries, potentially denting growth for a region heavily reliant on trade. Japans Nikkei 225 index fell 1.5 per cent, while the Hang Seng in Hong Kong dropped 0.3 per cent. The Shanghai Composite index declined 0.2 per cent. 5 - FPI selling The persistent selling by foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) has also weighed on the Indian stock market. FPI selling has continued, with NSDL data showing net outflows of Rs 4,285 crore in January so far. As per the data by National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL), FPI selling has continued with net outflows of Rs 4,285 crore recorded so far in January. Advertisement 6 - Stronger dollar The strengthening of the US dollar has also contributed to the fall of the India stocks. In the early trade on Monday, the Indian rupee slipped to an all-time low to 85.82 against the US dollar, inching past its previous all-time low of 85.8075 hit in the last week of December. The INR fall is pressured by broad-based dollar bids. Investors are now waiting for a host of US economic data later this week to get more clarity on the Federal Reserves rate outlook. With inputs from agencies. This electrifying and explosive action thriller by Zee Studios and Roy Kapur Films Deva hits theatres on January 31, 2025 read more The anticipation for Zee Studios and Roy Kapur Films electrifying and explosive action thriller Deva continues to soar, thanks to its intense posters and now, a gripping teaser that has quickly become the talk of the nation. Adding to the excitement, the teaser has received immense love not only from audiences but also from industry stalwarts, including top actors from Malayalam and Tamil cinema, who have lauded director Rosshan Andrrews and his team. Acclaimed actress Jyothika, who shares a warm rapport with Rosshan Andrrews, extended her best wishes to the director via Instagram, writing: All the very best, dearest Rosshan https://www.instagram.com/stories/jyotika/3538795758755766200?utm_source=ig_story_item_share&igsh=MWNpaXh6cXBocHRj Malayalam superstar Manju Warrier also expressed her excitement, sharing the teaser and writing: This is going to be killer @rosshanandrrews https://www.instagram.com/stories/nivinpaulyactor/3538705792569794763?utm_source=ig_story_item_share&igsh=MXJvZnN2Y2t2dDZhdA== Actor Nivin Pauly joined the chorus of appreciation by sharing the films poster on his Instagram story. Along with heart emojis, he wrote a heartfelt note applauding Rosshan Andrrews and sending his best wishes to the entire team. Directed by acclaimed Malayalam filmmaker Rosshan Andrrews and P Produced by Umesh Bansal, Siddharth Roy kapur. This electrifying and explosive action thriller by Zee Studios and Roy Kapur Films Deva hits theatres on January 31, 2025. With the Mahakumbh Mela 2025 on the horizon, authorities are leaving no stone unturned in its preparation. From providing digital QR-based railway tickets to creating an AI-powered lost and found, the Prayagraj Mahakumbh is dubbed as the Digital MahaKumbh that will blend ancient traditions with cutting-edge technology read more Dubbed the Digital Mahakumbh, the Prayagraj Mahakumbh is integrating advanced technologies like never before to enhance safety, streamline operations, and enrich the spiritual experience for over 40 crore devotees, who are expected to attend the mega event from January 13 to February 26. File image/ AP With the Mahakumbh Mela 2025 on the horizon, Prayagraj is preparing to welcome millions of devotees, but this time, its blending age-old traditions with the power of modern technology. Dubbed the Digital Mahakumbh, the Prayagraj Mahakumbh is integrating advanced technologies like never before to enhance safety, streamline operations, and enrich the spiritual experience for over 40 crore devotees, who are expected to attend the mega event from January 13 to February 26. Advertisement Curious about how AI and technology will transform this years Mahakumbh into a digital marvel? Heres a closer look. Digital, colour-coded railway tickets The Prayagraj Railway Division is set to roll out digital railway ticketing for Mahakumbh 2025. Amit Malviya, senior PRO of Prayagraj Railway Division, shared with ANI that employees from the commercial department will be assigned special duties at Prayagraj Junction, wearing distinctive green jackets with QR codes on the back. Devotees can simply scan these codes with their mobile phones to download the UTS app, allowing them to book tickets without standing in long queues. This initiative is expected to not only make ticket booking more convenient for pilgrims but also streamline the entire process for the railway authorities. employees from the commercial department will be assigned special duties at Prayagraj Junction, wearing distinctive green jackets with QR codes on the back. Devotees can simply scan these codes with their mobile phones to download the UTS app, allowing them to book tickets without standing in long queues. Image courtesy: X/@KreatelyMe Malviya also highlighted that railway staff wearing QR code jackets will be positioned at key spots within the station to assist devotees in booking tickets conveniently. In addition, the QR codes will offer access to other important services, improving the overall travel experience for attendees. Senior railway officials told PTI that colour-coded tickets will be issued to passengers travelling to Prayagraj during the Kumbh period. The colour codes will differ on the basis of the direction and place the passenger is coming from. Also read: Mahakumbh 2025: Over 2,000 drones to light up the sky, depicting Samudra Manthan Smart cameras, drones and robotic buoys Safety remains a top priority for the Maha Kumbh Mela, with over 50,000 security personnel supported by AI-driven tools and advanced technology to monitor the event. Advertisement At the heart of this initiative is the AI-powered Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC), which will oversee the entire event with an extensive network of CCTV cameras, drones, and AI systems dedicated to water surveillance. Safety remains a top priority for the Maha Kumbh Mela, with over 50,000 security personnel supported by AI-driven tools and advanced technology to monitor the event. PTI A senior official shared with PTI, that the real-time monitoring will allow for quick responses to emergencies, and send alerts about the crowd density and parking lot occupancy, making the overall coordination much smoother. To improve navigation in the sprawling temporary city of MahaKumbh Nagar, the Mela Authority also has partnered with Google to integrate key landmarks such as ghats, toilets, food courts, pontoon bridges, and emergency services into Google Maps, marking the first use of such technology for an event of this scale, a government official told India Today. Advertisement Har Har Mahadev! Next years Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj will be a Digital Kumbh like never before! With state-of-the-art technology, real-time assistance, and over 80,000 well-equipped accommodations, this Kumbh promises an unmatched experience. Whats unique? The event pic.twitter.com/w1B0fKanPd Rajeshwar Singh (@RajeshwarS73) November 28, 2024 A multilingual chatbot The Mahakumbh Mela, held once every 12 years, attracts devotees and visitors from across the globe, each speaking different languages and dialects. To ease communication, the state government has introduced the Bhasini App, which will allow officials stationed at the Mela to communicate with visitors in various languages. Naga Sadhus, or Hindu holy men take a dip in the Ganges river during Shahi Snan at Kumbh Mela, or the Pitcher Festival, in Haridwar, India, April 12, 2021. File Image. Reuters This multilingual chatbot will support 11 languages, helping to address queries from pilgrims and ensuring a hassle-free experience for all attendees. Advertisement Also read: Authorities recreate mythology for Mahakumbh 2025, reunite 3 Ganga streams in Prayagraj AI-powered lost and found Gone are the days when it was said that once lost in Kumbh, youre lost forever. Thanks to modern technology, staying connected is easier than ever. For the upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela, the Mela Authority and the police department have set up a state-of-the-art, AI-powered lost-and-found registration center, known as the 1920 Center. This centre will help reunite lost pilgrims with their families and friends by offering digital registration for missing persons at various locations. For the upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela, the Mela Authority and the police department have set up a state-of-the-art, AI-powered lost-and-found registration center for lost pilgrims. ANI Sector Magistrate Gyan Prakash shared with NDTV, This technology allows us to search in multiple ways, such as comparing how someone looked 10 years ago or matching their photo with images on social media. He added, A designated area with around 100 beds will be available for lost individuals, and if children are separated from their families, a toy centre will keep them entertained while they wait. Advertisement Biometric attendance for Police The Uttar Pradesh Police have introduced a fully biometric attendance system for personnel deployed at the Mahakumbh. Moving away from traditional paper-based records, this digital attendance system will now track police personnel, saving time and ensuring accurate record-keeping, reports IANS. All police officers assigned to Mahakumbh 2025 are undergoing training that covers soft skills, disaster management, and geographical awareness of the event site. With around 50,000 police personnel set to ensure the safety of an estimated 40 crore devotees, this system will play a crucial role in managing the event efficiently. By integrating these technological advancements, the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 aims to set a new standard for large-scale religious gatherings. Rajesh Dwivedi, the Senior Superintendent of Police for Mahakumbh Nagar, told PTI, We are using cutting-edge technologies to manage every aspect of the Kumbh this time. With these smart systems and enhanced capabilities, we are confident we can streamline operations and ensure that Mahakumbh 2025 remains safe, efficient, and organised. With input from agencies Bangladesh, headed by Muhammad Yunus, has cancelled a training session of 50 judicial officials in Indias Bhopal. Is this yet another sign of strained ties between the two countries? New Delhi and Dhaka have drifted apart since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina, who is seeking refuge in India read more Bangladesh's interim government, headed by Muhammad Yunus, cancelled a planned training programme for 50 judges and judicial officials in India on Sunday. File image/AP India-Bangladesh ties are not going well and the latest example of the deterioration in the relationship came on Sunday (January 5), as the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government scrapped a planned training programme for 50 judges and judicial officers in India. Bangladeshs Ministry of Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs issued an order to cancel the notification, which allowed the officers to attend a training programme in India. Whats going on? Why were Bangladeshi judges to visit India? And why has it now been cancelled? We get you the answers. Advertisement Dhaka calls off training of judicial officers On Sunday, the Daily Star reported that Muhammad Yunus interim government in Dhaka on Sunday issued an order to cancel a notification from December 30, 2024, which permitted 50 judicial officers to attend a training programme in India. The notification has been cancelled, a law ministry spokesman said without providing any further details. However, the report said that the move was in compliance with directives from the Supreme Court. Dhaka officials in India The training for the Bangladesh judicial officers was to take place in Madhya Pradeshs Bhopal at the National Judicial Academy and the State Judicial Academy between February 10 and 20. The officials who were selected to go were chosen from a list of assistant judges, senior assistant judges, joint district and sessions judges, additional district and sessions judges, district and sessions judges and other serving officials. Notably, this training was signed off by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina when she signed an MoU during her 2017 visit to New Delhi. Under this MoU, judicial training for the officials of Bangladesh judiciary was expected to be imparted in the National Judicial Academy in Bhopal as part of the building of capacity and expertise of the judiciary of Bangladesh. Moreover, the MoU stated that the training module would be financed by the Government of India and that the Government of Bangladesh was not expected to shoulder any of the costs. The cancellation of the training came a day after Bangladesh daily, Sangbad Sangstha, had publicised the planned visit. As per the MoU signed between India and Bangladesh, New Delhi was to finance the training for the 50 judicial officers in Bhopal. File image/PTI India-Bangladesh ties nosedive While the Bangladesh interim government says that the training being called off is in compliance with the Supreme Court, many believe that its another example of ties between the once-friendly neighbours souring. The two nations have been witnessing a strain since Sheikh Hasina fled to New Delhi last August following a massive student-led protest that toppled her Awami Leagues 16-year regime. Dhaka has been asking for Hasinas extradition from India. However, New Delhi is yet to reveal what it plans to do regarding the request from Bangladesh. Advertisement The tensions between the two countries have also worsened over the rising number of attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh. According to news reports, there have been a series of attacks on Hindu community members and their places of worship. The biggest flashpoint was when Dhaka arrested former Iskcon priest, Chinmoy Krishna Das. His arrest came after a local politician complained that he had disrespected the Bangladeshi flag by raising it lower than a saffron-colour flag. The arrest also prompted Indias External Affairs Ministry to say that it was unfortunate that a religious leader presenting legitimate demands through peaceful gatherings was facing legal trouble while extremists behind attacks against minorities, including desecration of deities and temples, remained free. Advertisement Worsening ties between the two nations have also led to Dhaka cancelling a key deal with New Delhi, which would provide Indias Northeast with better internet. In December, Bangladeshs internet regulator blocked a government plan to allow India to access internet bandwidth through its territory. Chinmoy Krishna Das, a Hindu leader in Bangladesh, has been accused of sedition under a colonial-era law. Reuters Announcing its decision, the internet regulator claimed that the plan, if implemented, would adversely impact the countrys prospects to become a regional internet hub. Last August, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) demanded the cancellation of agreements signed with India over the past 15 years under Sheikh Hasinas government. A key BNP official had described the diplomatic agreements signed between the two countries as secret and unjust. Advertisement Muhammad Yunus, the Nobel laureate, has also acknowledged a strain in ties with India, telling the New York Times in November that Indias protection of Hasina and painting his government as overrun by extremists as factors aggravating relations. However, despite the waning relations, Dhaka earlier this month said it would continue to advance on issues of mutual interest with India while work goes on for the extradition of Sheikh Hasina. Foreign affairs adviser Md Touhid Hossain was quoted as saying, We have many issues of mutual interest on bilateral fronts. I think both will continue side by side. We will advance with all these issues. Advertisement However, amid all this, one positive development is that the two sides released and repatriated 95 Indian fishermen incarcerated in Bangladesh and 90 Bangladeshi fishermen lodged in the jails of India on Sunday. The release was carried out near the international maritime boundary line between India and Bangladesh. They also exchanged the fishing boats detained by the coast guards and the navies of the two countries. With inputs from agencies In a heartbreaking incident, a family of four, including a software consultant, his wife, and their two young children, were discovered dead in their rented home in Bengaluru. The couple had reportedly poisoned their children before taking their own lives on Monday. What pushed them to take such drastic step? read more A family of four, including a software consultant, his wife, and their two young children, were discovered dead in their rented home in RMV 2nd Stage, Bengaluru. Image courtesy: X In a heartbreaking incident, a family of four, including a software consultant, his wife, and their two young children, were discovered dead in their rented home in RMV 2nd Stage, Bengaluru. The tragic event, which came to light on Monday, occurred within the jurisdiction of the Sadashivanagar police station. Authorities are currently treating the case as a suspected murder-suicide and are conducting a thorough investigation. Heres everything we know so far about this devastating case. Advertisement What happened? On January 6, the familys house help arrived for work in the morning but received no response despite knocking on the door multiple times. After several failed attempts, she peered through the window of the rented house and discovered the four dead bodies. She immediately alerted the neighbours, who then informed the police, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) Shekhar H Tekkannavar told News18. An initial investigation into the case revealed the identities of the victims as Anup Kumar, aged 38, his wife Rakhi, aged 35, their 5-year-old daughter Anupriya, and 2-year-old son Priyansh. Authorities believe the couple had poisoned their kids, before taking their own lives by hanging. Authorities believe the Bengaluru couple had poisoned their kids, before taking their own lives by hanging. Pixabay/Representative The family, natives of Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh, had been residing in Bengaluru for Anup Kumars work as a software consultant in a private firm. His wife Rakhi was a homemaker. The couple was survived by their two children. Despite the tragic end, the couple appeared happy to those around them and had even planned a trip to Pondicherry. The packing was completed on Sunday, police said, quoting the house help. The family employed three individuals, including two cooks and one caregiver for their children, each earning Rs 15,000 per month. Whats the reason behind their drastic step? The Sadashivanagar police are investigating all possible angles to determine what led the family to take such an extreme step. According to a report by News18, authorities suspect that financial troubles may have played a role. Investigators are exploring whether the family was burdened by debt or facing a financial crisis. However, no official statement has been released regarding the cause. Meanwhile, a report by IANS suggested that the couple may have been under emotional strain due to their elder child Anupriyas health condition. The 5-year-old was a child with special needs, and the parents were reportedly dealing with stress, as per the house helps statements. As of now, no suicide note has been found at the scene. Police have registered a case and are continuing their investigation. Advertisement Also read: Death video, harassment, & more: How Delhi cafe owners suicide bears similarities with Bengaluru techie A chilling case On August 3 2023, Bengaluru witnessed another tragic incident involving a 31-year-old software professional who took his own life after killing his wife and two infant daughters. The incident occurred within the Kadugodi police station limits. The deceased, identified as Veerarjuna Vijay from Andhra Pradesh, had killed his wife Hemavathi (29) and their two daughters, aged 18 months and 8 months. Trapped in mounting debt and facing a severe economic crisis, Vijay was unable to cope with the pressure. He then killed his wife and two kids, before dying by suicide. Representational image. Pixabay According to the police, the incident came to light when neighbours reported a foul odour emanating from the familys flat. Upon forcing entry, officers discovered the decomposing bodies of Hemavathi and the two children on the bedroom floor. Investigations revealed that Vijay had been involved in stock market trading for several years, during which he suffered significant financial losses. Trapped in mounting debt and facing a severe economic crisis, Vijay was unable to cope with the pressure. Advertisement Further examination of Vijays mobile phone and laptop confirmed his involvement in share trading, which had led to his financial downfall. Police also noted that Hemavathi, aware of his stock market ventures, had often urged him to stop investing in shares, resulting in frequent arguments between the couple. Unable to bear the strain of financial ruin and familial conflict, Vijay resorted to this drastic act. A collection of Suicide prevention helpline numbers are available here. Please reach out if you or anyone you know is in need of support. The All-India helpline number is: 022-27546669) With input from agencies Today is the deadline for the arrest warrant of South Koreas impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol. Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy will go on trial on charges of corruption. US NSA Jake Sullivan will visit India to take stock of India-US Initiative on iCET read more Its going to be a busy Monday. Today is the deadline for the arrest warrant of South Koreas impeached leader Yoon Suk Yeol. Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy and 12 others will go on trial on charges of corruption and illegal financing related to alleged Libyan funding of his successful 2007 presidential bid. US NSA Jake Sullivan will visit India to take stock of India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET). Heres a look at how the day will unfold. Advertisement Deadline for the arrest of South Koreas Yoon Suk Yeol The deadline for the arrest warrant of South Koreas impeached leader Yoon Suk Yeol over a failed martial law bid is Monday, January 6. Yoon, who has already been suspended from duty by lawmakers, would become the first sitting president in South Korean history to be arrested if the warrant is carried out. Trial of former French president Nicolas Sarkozy on corruption charges On Monday, former French President Nicolas Sarkozy and 12 others will stand trial on charges of corruption and illegal financing related to alleged Libyan funding of his successful 2007 presidential bid. The conservative former president, in office from 2007 to 2012, could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted in the case. He is also fighting various other legal cases. Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby ends official duties Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, spiritual leader of the global Anglican Communion, will wrap up his official duties on Monday. Stephen Cottrell, the archbishop of York and the second-most senior bishop in the Church of England, will take over his duties. US NSA Jake Sullivan to visit India US NSA Jake Sullivan is set to visit India to take stock of India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET). His visit will be the last high-profile visit to New Delhi from the outgoing Biden administration. It is also learned that he will hold wide-ranging talks with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. ECI to publish final Delhi electoral rolls The Election Commission of India will publish final Delhi electoral roll on Monday, before the state goes to assembly elections, which is likely in February. Earlier, the chief electoral officers office had said that the poll body received 485,624 applications for registration of new voters (Form 6) and 82,450 applications for deletion of voters (Form 7), either due to relocation or deaths, over the past month. Services PMI data to be released The Indian Services Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) for December 2024 will be released today. The actual value was 60.8, an increase from 58.4 in November. SC to hear petitions of Amazon and Flipkart The Supreme Court will be hearing over petitions of Amazon and Flipkart challenging an order of the Competition Commission of India (CCI) ordering a probe against them for alleged malpractices. The fair trade regulator CCI ordered the probe against the e-commerce giants for malpractices such as deep discounting and tie-ups with preferred sellers on their platforms. Following this, the companies filed separate petitions in various high courts, challenging the investigation. MP High Court to hear matter concerning the Union Carbide toxic waste The Madhya Pradesh High Court will be hearing the matter related to the Union Carbide India Limiteds (UCIL) toxic waste in Bhopal, which has a population of about 1.75 lakh. Following a December 3, 2024, Madhya Pradesh High Court order, the waste is being shifted to Pithampur industrial town in western MPs Dhar district for disposal (incineration) which may take up to nine months. Advertisement Mamata Banerjee to visit Ganga Sagar West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to visit Ganga Sagar to review mela preparations. The Ganga Sagar Mela, which coincides with Makar Sankranti, attracts numerous spiritual devotees every year. TN Assembly maiden session for 2025 The first session of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly for 2025 will begin on January 6 with the customary address by Governor R N Ravi, Assembly Speaker M Appavu informed here on Friday. The sessions duration will be decided by the Assembly Business Advisory Committee which will meet on that day. Malaysian court to hear ex-PM Najib Razaks appeal for house arrest Malaysias Court of Appeal is set to hear a bid by former Prime Minister Najib Razak to overturn a lower court decision in July that struck out his request to confirm the existence of and execute a royal order entitling to serve his sentence under house arrest. He is serving a six-year jail sentence for corruption linked to the multibillion-dollar 1MDB scandal. Amid reports of a surge in human metapneumovirus infections in China, the respiratory virus has been detected in India. Two infants were diagnosed with HMPV in Karnatakas Bengaluru and one in Gujarat. Cases have also been found in Hong Kong and Malaysia read more India has reported two cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV). Two infants were infected with the virus in Karnatakas Bengaluru, the Union Health Ministry said on Monday (January 6). One case is also suspected in Gujarat. This comes amid a surge in HMPV cases in China, leading to overcrowded hospitals and fears of a wider outbreak. The respiratory virus, which causes symptoms similar to a cold, was also detected in Malaysia last year. Advertisement Lets take a closer look. HMPV and its symptoms Human metapneumovirus is a respiratory virus of the Pneumoviridae family, of which respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), measles and mumps are also members. HMPV can cause both upper and lower respiratory tract infections. First identified by scientists in 2001, the respiratory virus mostly causes mild infections. However, children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to serious illness. Its cases are more common in the winter and early spring. As per Cleveland Clinic, the symptoms of HMPV infection include cough, runny nose, fever, sore throat, wheezing, rash, and shortness of breath. In more severe cases, the symptoms can progress to bronchitis or pneumonia. The virus spreads through direct contact with an infected person or from touching contaminated surfaces. Globally, HMPV was responsible for one per cent of deaths linked to acute lower respiratory infection in children under age five in 2018, The Hindu reported citing a 2021 study. How HMPV is spreading in Asia India has detected two cases of the HMPV virus in Bengaluru, the Union Health Ministry confirmed Monday. While a three-month-old infant has been discharged from the hospital, the other child aged eight months is recovering. The ministry pointed out that neither of the patients has any history of international travel. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has detected two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka. Both cases were identified through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens, as part of ICMRs ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses across the country, it said in a statement. Advertisement The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has detected two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka. Both cases were identified through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens, as part of ICMR's ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses pic.twitter.com/PtKYmgztKb ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025 The health ministry also underlined that there has been no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases in India. Gujarat has also reported a case. Advertisement China has recently seen an uptick in HMPV cases, with children being most affected. The northern provinces reported a rise in infections among children under the age of 14. As per Reuters, an official statement said there was an increase in acute respiratory diseases in China from December 16 to 22, 2024. Photos and videos of people wearing masks in hospitals in the Asian country surfaced on social media last week. Chinese health authorities have imposed emergency measures to monitor and tackle the spread of the virus, reported Independent. However, Beijing has dismissed concerns about the HMPV outbreak turning into another health crisis like COVID-19. Chinas foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reportedly said on Friday: Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season. Advertisement The diseases appear to be less severe and spread with a smaller scale compared to the previous year, she said. Chinas National Disease Control and Prevention Administration has launched a pilot programme to monitor pneumonia of unknown origin to help labs and health agencies report and manage cases effectively, state broadcaster CCTV reported, quoting an administration official at a news conference. Malaysia reported 327 cases of HMPV infections last year, a 45 per cent surge from the 225 cases in 2023, reported The Straits Times. The Malaysian Health Ministry said that a rise in respiratory tract infections at the beginning and end of the year was not uncommon and urged people to take precautions, including wearing masks and washing hands with soap. Advertisement The public is advised to proactively take care of their health and prevent infection to others, especially in enclosed and crowded areas. This includes those planning to travel to countries at risk, it said in a statement. Hong Kong has also detected a few cases of HMPV. Neighbouring countries like Cambodia and Taiwan are keeping an eye on the situation. Cambodias Communicable Disease Control Department has issued a warning, highlighting HMPVs similarity to COVID-19 and influenza. Can HMPV be the next pandemic? HMPV is not a new virus. It was first diagnosed in children in 2001 in the Netherlands. It has been previously reported globally, including in the United Kingdom and the United States. Experts say there is no need to panic. Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) official Dr Atul Goel said, There has been news doing the rounds about a Metapneumovirus outbreak in China. Let me be very clear on that count. Metapneumovirus is like any other respiratory virus which causes the common cold, and in the very old and the very young it could cause flu-like symptoms. We have analysed data on the respiratory outbreaks within the country. There is no substantial increase in December 2024 data and no cases which have been reported in large numbers from any of our institutions, he added. With inputs from agencies Missing for two days, Chhattisgarh journalist Mukesh Chandrakars body was found in a septic tank in Bijapur district on January 3. An autopsy has revealed that Mukesh was brutally tortured before being murdered, with findings including 15 fractures to his head, his heart ripped out, and his liver split into four pieces read more Mukesh Chandrakar, a 28-year-old journalist from Chhattisgarh, was found dead in the Bijapur district on January 3. Missing for two days, his body was found in a septic tank at a property owned by Suresh Chandrakar in Chattanpara Basti. Days after the incident, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) arrested Suresh, who is the prime suspect, in Hyderabad. ALSO READ | Chhattisgarh: 9 Naxalites, clad in uniform, killed in encounter with security personnel in Bastar region Advertisement An autopsy revealed that Mukesh had been brutally tortured before being murdered. Suresh, who is a relative of Mukesh, had fled Chhattisgarh after the incident came to light and caused an outrage. What Chhattisgarh journalists autopsy reveals The postmortem examination of Mukesh revealed the brutal nature of his murder, with findings including 15 fractures to his head, a broken neck, and his heart ripped out. The report further revealed that his liver had been split into four pieces, while five ribs and neck bones were broken. An autopsy revealed that Mukesh had been brutally tortured before being murdered. Image courtesy: X/@MukeshChandrak9 Notably, the bone in one of his hands was fractured, and his heart suffered extensive damage. There were over 15 injuries on his head, according to The Week. After the murder, contractor Suresh disposed of Mukeshs body in a septic tank. Citing the postmortem report, Newslaundry reported that Mukesh was attacked with a heavy object, resulting in severe injuries to his head, chest, back, and stomach. His body was identified by a tattoo on his hand. Doctors who conducted the autopsy admitted that they had not seen such a horrific case in their 12-year careers. According to India Today, the doctors found four pieces of liver five broken ribs, 15 fractures to the head, a broken neck, and the removal of his heart. Medical experts said that more than two individuals might have been involved in the murder. Advertisement ALSO READ | 28 Naxalites killed in encounter along Bastar region in Chhattisgarh, 185 Maoists eliminated in 2024 What did the accused do to the body? According to NDTV, preliminary investigations revealed that Mukeshs cousin, Ritesh, and a supervisor, Mahendra, attacked him with an iron rod, killing him during an argument over dinner. To cover up the crime, the duo hid Mukeshs body in a septic tank and sealed it with cement. They also disposed of the iron rod used in the murder and Mukeshs mobile phone to destroy evidence. #WATCH | Prime accused of journalist Mukesh Chandrakar's murder case, Suresh Chandrakar, who was absconding after the crime, has been detained. The accused was detained from Hyderabad late last night by the SIT and he is being questioned In Bijapur, SIT in-charge, Mayank Gurjar pic.twitter.com/f4hCz9Wb7D ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025 Advertisement It was alleged that Dinesh Chandrakar oversaw the cementing of the tank, while Suresh was believed to have devised the plan to cover up the murder, the report said. What Mukesh Chandrakar actually found Mukesh, a freelance journalist and a contributing reporter for NDTV, ran a YouTube channel called Bastar Junction, which has nearly 1.59 lakh subscribers. A news report aired on NDTV on December 25, which revealed alleged corruption in a road construction project in Bijapur, is now being discussed as the potential motive behind his murder. Advertisement Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma said at a press conference that Mukeshs report on the poor road construction had led the government to order an inquiry into the project. Mukesh worked with media houses such as NDTV and News18. Image courtesy: X/@MukeshChandrak9 Suresh Chandrakar, one of the contractors involved in the project, allegedly became upset with Mukesh for his report, The Indian Express reported. On December 25, Mukeshs elder brother, Yukesh Chandrakar, filed a missing person report after Mukeshs phone remained switched off following a meeting arranged by Sureshs brother, Ritesh, at one of the contractors properties. Mukeshs body was then found inside a water tank on Sureshs property in Chattanpara on January 3, where he had been last seen. Advertisement The SIT formed to investigate the case arrested Suresh Chandrakar from Hyderabad late on Sunday night. He was brought to Bijapur for interrogation the following morning. Three other individuals - Ritesh, Dinesh Chandrakar, and Mahendra - were also arrested in connection with the murder. Soon, allegations surfaced about the accused being involved with the Congress party, though former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel claimed that Suresh had switched to the BJP years ago. Authorities have taken action against the illegal properties and encroachments of the accused. A construction yard built by Suresh on forest land along the Bijapur-Gangaloor Road was demolished, according to local officials. The police have also begun freezing the bank accounts of Suresh and the other accused, with three of Sureshs accounts already on hold. Mukesh had also played a key role in securing the release of CoBRA commando Rakeshwar Singh Manhas from Maoist captivity in April 2021 after the Takalguda Naxal ambush in Bijapur, where 22 security personnel were killed. The Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) is a specialised unit of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) focused on jungle warfare. ALSO READ | How security forces gunned down 29 Naxals in biggest strike in the jungles of Chhattisgarh Tributes pour in Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expressed his condolences, calling Mukeshs death an irreparable loss to journalism and society. The news of the murder of Bijapurs young and dedicated journalist, Mukesh Chandrakar ji is very sad and heartbreaking The culprit will not be spared under any circumstances. I have given instructions to arrest the criminals as soon as possible and ensure the harshest punishment for them, Sai wrote on X. The Communist Party of India (Maoist), a banned organisation, also condemned Mukeshs murder and called for a thorough investigation. Praising him for exposing corruption in road construction projects, the outfit said that the journalist fulfilled his duty by addressing issues related to the people, politics, and culture. Members of the Mahar community held a candle march in condemnation of the murder, demanding capital punishment for the accused. Journalists also protested at the Raipur Press Club on Saturday, calling for strict action against those responsible. The Press Council of India (PCI) expressed concern over the killing, with PCI Chairperson Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai taking suo motu cognisance of the case. She called for a report on the facts of the case from the state government. The Press Association and the Editors Guild of India also condemned the murder and urged the state government to conduct a thorough investigation. Chhattisgarh Deputy CM Vijay Sharma, while speaking to ANI, said that Mukesh was reporting on efforts to establish peace and combat Naxalism in Bastar. Mukesh Chandrakar was covering the areas of inner Bastar, Bastar Junction, for establishing peace in Bastar, for ending the naxalism from Bastar. This murder happened through the conspiracy of Congress leader Suresh Chandrakar, the police immediately took action and registered an FIR. An 11-member SIT has been formed, he said. With inputs from agencies Elon Musk, commenting on the Pakistan grooming gangs scandal, has accused UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer of being complicit in the rape of Britain. Starmer, who was in charge of the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) from 2008 to 2013, introduced new guidelines on how to treat victims of child sexual abuse (CSA) and how to prosecute such cases. But what do we know about the scandal? read more British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is on the receiving end from Elon Musk. Reuters Elon Musk is going after UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer over the Pakistan grooming gangs scandal. Musk, the richest man in the world and the owner of X, wrote on his social media platform Starmer was complicit in the rape of Britain when he was head of Crown Prosecution for 6 years. Starmer must go and he must face charges for his complicity in the worst mass crime in the history of Britain, Musk added. Advertisement So many people at all levels of power in the UK need to be in prison for this, Musk earlier wrote on X. The scandal, which originally came to light a decade ago, has recently resurfaced in the public eye. But what do we know about it? Why is Musk blaming Starmer? Lets take a closer look: What do we know? As per Business Standard, the scandal first came to light in 2012. This after The Times newspaper reported on the existence of a secret police document which claimed that thousands of children had been sexually exploited in South Yorkshire by groups of gangs. The document claimed that at least 1,400 children over a decade and a half had been systematically abused by these gangs mostly men of Pakistani heritage. The victims, some as young as 11, suffered rape and trafficking. The local authorities, meanwhile, afraid of being seen as racist or insensitive to foreign cultures failed to act. According to BBC, the Rotherham Borough Council, South Yorkshire Police and other agencies responded to the report by establishing a child sexual exploitation (CSE) team. The council also commissioned an independent inquiry led by professor Alexis Jay. Jay published her report in 2014. The report claimed that at least 1,400 children were sexually abused by men mostly of Pakistani heritage. Advertisement Jay in her report found that girls as young as 11 were raped, trafficked, abducted, beaten, and intimidated by these gangs. The Telegraph quoted the report as saying that children were doused in petrol and threatened with being set alight and threatened with guns. They witnessed brutally violent rapes and were threatened that they would be the next victim if they told anyone. Girls as young as 11 were raped by large numbers of male perpetrators, one after the other. The report claimed a senior police officer in Rotherham allegedly said the abuse had been going on for three decades. With it being Asians, we cant afford for this to be coming out, he added. Advertisement One witness said that with Pakistanis making up three per cent of the population, the council was terrified of [the impact on] community cohesion. Witnesses said pressure was applied on people to suppress, keep quiet or cover up. An ex-senior officer said, X didnt want [the] town to become the child abuse capital of the north. They didnt want riots. The report added that there was a sense that it was the Pakistani heritage Councillors who alone dealt with that community had a disproportionate influence on the council. My experience of council as it was and is Asian men very powerful, and the white British are very mindful of racism and frightened of racism allegations so there is no robust challenge, a witness said. Advertisement The Jay report found that authorities were often unwilling to act against the gangs for fear of being labelled racist. File image/Reuters The authorities were essentially afraid of being labelled racist. Worse, the inquiry found that when two fathers found their daughters being abused and attempted to retrieve them, they were arrested by the police. The Jay report also led to other investigations. As per BBC, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) then launched operation Linden in 2014. This operation looked at how the South Yorkshire Police responded to child sexual abuse complaints in the aftermath of the Jay Report being published. Operation Lindon carried out dozens of investigations between 2014 and 2018. It ultimately spanned 265 separate allegations from 51 complainants of whom 44 were survivors of abuse and exploitation. Advertisement The IOPC said eight out of 47 officers were found to have engaged in misconduct. Six had engaged in gross misconduct. While many of these officers had retired and thus could not be prosecuted, five were punished by authorities. The authorities also then began Operation Stovewood. This after Chief Constable of South Yorkshire Police asked the National Crime Agency (NCA) to conduct an independent inquiry into allegations of abuse in Rotherham between 1997 and 2013. There are currently 40 separate investigations on with 200 officers. Thus far 20 people have been convicted and over 150 arrested by authorities, as per BBC. The Guardian quoted NCA as saying that Operation Stovewood is the single largest law enforcement operation of its kind. Tesla CEO Elon Musk has gone after UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Source: Reuters. The newspaper pegged the cost of the operation at around $112 million. According to Sky News, the Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse published its final report in 2022. This inquiry, also led by professor Jay, called the sexual abuse of children an epidemic that leaves tens of thousands of victims in its poisonous wake. The report, among other recommendations, said institutions that work with children should be mandated to report instances of child sexual abuse. Jay last year said she was frustrated that none of the nearly two dozen recommendations had been implemented. Why is Musk blaming Starmer? Because Starmer was in charge of the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) from 2008 to 2013. Starmer in 2013 introduced new guidelines on how to treat victims of child sexual abuse (CSA) and how to prosecute such cases. UK ministers have rallied to Starmers defence. Some of the criticisms that Elon Musk has made, I think are misjudged and certainly misinformed, UK health secretary Wes Streeting said. But were willing to work with Elon Musk. I think hes got a big role to play with his social media platform to help us and other countries to tackle this serious issue. So if he wants to work with us, roll his sleeves up. Wed welcome that. Streeting added that political correctness was able to get in the way of going off the perpetrators of these serious crimes. Were not going to let that happen, Streeting added. With inputs from agencies The US Congress will meet today to certify Donald Trumps victory in the presidential election. While the process is more of a routine, it still holds a lot of importance read more If all goes harmoniously, President-elect Donald Trump isset to become the next president of the United States. File image/AP Today, Donald Trump is one step closer to becoming US president as a congressional joint session will meet to count electoral votes. The counting scheduled for January 6 (Monday) is anticipated to proceed more smoothly than the one held four years ago. During that previous session, a violent mob disrupted the process in an attempt to halt and overturn results that were unfavourable to then-President Donald Trump. This year, Trump is returning to the top office after winning the presidential battle against Kamala Harris. Notably, she will oversee the certification of her own defeat, carrying out her constitutional duty just as former Vice President Mike Pence did once the violence on January 6, 2021, had subsided. Advertisement The Electoral College is one of the most important steps in the process of picking the president of the United States. Although this is a routine step, it is still a necessary part of the process where the Electoral College officially elects the winner. The meeting is required by the Constitution and includes several distinct steps. What will happen when Congress convenes? Federal law mandates that Congress convene on January 6 to open sealed certificates from each state, containing their electoral votes. These votes are presented in special mahogany boxes specifically designated for the occasion. According to the process, bipartisan representatives of both chambers read the results out loud and do an official count. The vice president looks over the process. The Constitution requires Congress to meet and count the electoral votes. If there is a tie, then the House decides the presidency, with each congressional delegation having one vote. That hasnt happened since the 1800s, and wont happen this time because Trumps electoral win over Harris was decisive, 312-226. What has changed since last time? In a first since the Electoral College came into existence, Congress changed the rules for the certification following the violence of 2021 and Trumps attempts to usurp the process. Since the last time, the Congress passed the revised Electoral Count Act 2022, which more clearly defines the vice presidents role after Trump pressured Pence to object to his loss - an action exceeding the vice presidents ceremonial duties. Pence rejected Trumps demands and ultimately presided over the certification of his own defeat. Harris is set to do the same. Federal law mandates that Congress convene on January 6 to open sealed certificates from each state, containing their electoral votes. File image/AP The updated law clarifies that the vice president does not have the power to determine the results on January 6. Harris and Pence were not the first vice presidents to be put in the uncomfortable position of presiding over their own defeats. In 2001, Vice President Al Gore presided over the counting of the 2000 presidential election that he narrowly lost to Republican George W Bush. Gore had to gavel several Democrats objections out of order. Advertisement In 2017, Biden as vice president presided over the count that declared Trump the winner. Biden also shot down objections from House Democrats that did not have any Senate support. What happens at the session? The presiding officer opens and presents the certificates of the electoral votes in alphabetical order of the states. The appointed tellers from the House and Senate, members of both parties, then read each certificate out loud and record and count the votes. In the end, the presiding officer announces who has won the majority votes for both president and vice president. What happens if theres an objection? Once a teller reads a states certificate, a lawmaker may raise an objection to that states vote on any grounds. However, the presiding officer will only consider the objection if it is submitted in writing and supported by at least one-fifth of members from both chambers. The threshold is now significantly higher than before. Previously, an objection required backing from just one senator and one representative. The 2022 law raised this standard to make objections more challenging. In 2021, both the House and Senate rejected challenges to the electoral votes in Arizona and Pennsylvania. Before 2021, the last time that such an objection was considered had been 2005, when Rep. Stephanie Tubbs Jones of Ohio and Sen. Barbara Boxer of California, both Democrats, objected to Ohios electoral votes, claiming there were voting irregularities. Both the House and Senate debated the objection and easily rejected it. It was only the second time such a vote had occurred. Advertisement What comes after Congress counts the votes? After Congress certifies the vote, the president is inaugurated on the west front of the Capitol on January 20. The joint session is the last official chance for objections, beyond any challenges in court. Harris has conceded and never disputed Trumps win. With inputs from AP At least a dozen cases have been filed against Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers abroad, most in recently in Brazil. The soldiers have been accused of committing war crimes in Gaza by the Hind Rajab Foundation (HRF), a Belgium-based NGO which says it is dedicated to breaking the cycle of Israeli impunity and honouring the memory of Hind Rajab and all those who have perished in the Gaza genocide' read more At least a dozen cases have been filed against Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers abroad. Reuters Israeli soldiers going abroad now face the threat of arrest. According to a report at least a dozen cases have been filed against Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers abroad. The most recent such case occurred in Brazil where a soldier had to flee the country. But why is this happening? What do we know? Lets take a closer look: Soldiers accused of war crimes in Gaza As per The Times of Israel, IDF soldiers are being accused of war crimes in Gaza. Cases against IDF soldiers have been filed in Brazil, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Belgium, the Netherlands, Serbia, Ireland, and Cyprus as per the newspaper. Advertisement Haaretz reported that South Africa and France are also on the list of countries. There are reports of Israelis being asked to leave various countries to avoid being criminally prosecuted. The newspaper quoted Channel 12 as saying that most cases witnessed no investigations taking place. None of the soldiers thus far have been arrested. However, it added that the case in Brazil nearly spiralled into a diplomatic crisis. According to CNN, these lawsuits are being filed by the Hind Rajab Foundation (HRF). The case is the latest in a series of lawsuits brought by the Hind Rajab Foundation (HRF) that has tracked the activities of hundreds of Israeli soldiers serving in Gaza. The HRF is a Belgium-based pro-Palestinian NGO. It says it is dedicated to breaking the cycle of Israeli impunity and honouring the memory of Hind Rajab and all those who have perished in the Gaza genocide. Rajab, five, was killed along with her family in their car after they were fired upon by an Israeli tank. The bodies of Hind and her family were found weeks later after Israeli forces exited the area. AP The heart-breaking phone call made by Rajab went viral and drew the attention of many across the world to the plight of children in Gaza. The HRF in the case against the soldier in Brazil brought by lawyer Maira Pinheiro accused him of participating in massive demolitions of civilian homes in Gaza during a systematic campaign of destruction. Advertisement Pinheiro told the media Brazil, being a signatory to the Rome Statute, must probe and penalise war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide. A judge in Brazil directed police to investigate the soldier on the basis of the plaint. Times of Israel quoted local media as saying that the soldier was being investigated based on his potential involvement in the destruction of a residential building in the Gaza Strip while using explosives outside of combat. Washington Post quoted the HRF as saying it had provided video footage, geolocation data and photographs showing the soldier participating in the demolition of civilian homes. It called the move a pivotal step toward accountability for crimes committed in Gaza. Advertisement It quoted Brazilian media as saying that an on-call federal judge in the Federal District had issued the ruling on December 30. As per CNN, in Sri Lanka, the HRF put up a photograph of the soldier. It said it had asked Sri Lankan authorities, the International Criminal Court and Interpol, to arrest the soldier for killing of a civilian in Gaza. Israel has faced much flak for its war against Hamas in Gaza. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former defense minister Yoav Gallant. The International Court of Justice is also investigating claims of genocide in Gaza. Advertisement How is Israel responding? Haaretz on Sunday reported that the Military Advocate General, the Foreign Ministry, the National Security Council, and the Shin Bet have set up a joint task force to combat the threats to soldiers abroad. The outlet reported that active-duty soldiers must have their travel destinations approved by senior commanders. However, the Military Advocate Generals Corps has expressed worry about oversight when it comes to dealing with reservists. Middle East Eye reported that the government has warned soldiers travelling abroad that they could be held. The government is also contacting local law firms to help soldiers who are detained. Haaretz reported that senior lawyers have warned government leaders that their public statements could potentially impact international legal proceedings when it comes to IDF soldiers. Sources have said that Israels position is that Gaza is currently a combat zone. They say that members of Israels parliament making any statements that contradict this could result in its soldiers being legally exposed abroad. Advertisement A former senior officer in Israels Judge Advocate Generals department told CNN that the activist groups were not going after high-ranking soldiers and politicians but regular members of the army. The ex-officer admitted that there had been an increasing number of efforts abroad to bring charges against their troops. However, the officer noted that none of these attempts thus far had been successful. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has gotten involved in the Brazil case. Times of Israel quoted the Foreign Ministry as saying that Saar had directed the countrys embassy and consulate in Brazil to get in touch with the soldier and his family, who accompanied him throughout the event until his swift and safe departure from Brazil. The Foreign Ministry draws the attention of Israelis to posts on social media about their military service, and to the fact that anti-Israeli elements may exploit these posts to initiate futile legal proceedings against them, the Foreign Ministry added. The Washington Post reported that the soldier had left Brazil on a commercial flight. The State of Israel is dealing today with an organised campaign by pro-Palestinian organizations that are trying to gather materials that soldiers have posted over the course of the war, and to use them to try to have those soldiers arrested, Israeli Ambassador to Brazil Daniel Zonshine told Channel 12. The war was sparked by Hamas-led militants attack into Israel on October 7, 2023. They killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducted around 250. Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, at least a third believed to be dead. Israels offensive in retaliation has killed more than 45,500 Palestinians in Gaza, according to the territorys Health Ministry, which says women and children make up more than half the dead. The ministry doesnt distinguish between civilians and combatants in its tally. Israels military says it only targets militants and blames Hamas for civilian deaths because its fighters operate in dense residential areas. The army says it has killed 17,000 militants, without providing evidence. The war has caused widespread destruction and displaced about 90 per cent of Gazas population of 2.3 million, many of them multiple times. Winter has now arrived, and hundreds of thousands are sheltering in tents near the sea. With inputs from agencies The man behind the truck attack in New Orleans, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, had visited the city twice in the weeks leading up to the incident and used to wear Meta smart glasses. Did they have any connection with the incident? read more Jabbar was wearing Meta smart glasses during the New Years Day attack. Image courtesy: FBI/Reuters The man behind the truck attack in New Orleans on New Years Day was known to wear Meta smart glasses. But what exactly are they, and how might they be connected to the incident? ALSO READ | Single mother of 4-year-old, aspiring nurse: The victims killed in New Orleans truck attack The attack claimed the lives of fourteen people and left at least 35 others injured when the driver of a pick-up truck deliberately targeted revellers in the French Quarter. Advertisement The attacker, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, was shot during a gunfire exchange at the scene of the horrific crash involving a rented pick-up truck on Bourbon Street, a location known globally for its lively atmosphere in New Orleans historic French Quarter. Why the New Orleans attacker wore Meta smart glasses On Sunday, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) revealed that the attacker had visited the city twice in the weeks leading up to the incident and used Meta smart glasses to record video of the area. BREAKING: FBI releases video of New Orleans terrorist wearing Meta glasses and placing coolers with IEDs in the French Quarter pic.twitter.com/ONZnK4FmZv Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) January 5, 2025 At a press briefing, Deputy Assistant Director Christopher Raia said that Shamsud-Din Jabbar had also travelled to Cairo and Canada before the attack. However, any potential links between those trips and the attack remain unclear. Jabbar made two trips to New Orleans in the months before the attack: first in October and again in November. FBI Special Agent Lyonel Myrthil explained that Jabbar used Meta glasses, made by Facebooks parent company, to record footage as he cycled through the French Quarter as he plotted this hideous attack. Advertisement Shamsud-Din Jabbar is seen in a still image from a surveillance video walking along Dauphine Street near Governor Nicholls Street, in New Orleans. FBI/Reuters The smart glasses, designed for hands-free video recording, likely allowed him to discreetly gather detailed visuals of the area. These glasses were recovered from Jabbar after he was killed by authorities, according to a report by The Washington Post. ALSO READ | From New Orleans to London, how vehicles have been turned into deadly weapons Myrthil added that Jabbar was in New Orleans again on November 10. Jabbar was wearing Meta smart glasses during the New Years Day attack, but officials confirmed he did not activate the livestream function. Notably, the FBI released a collection of video clips online, which included footage of Jabbar testing the glasses in front of a mirror and security footage showing him in the area before the attack. The FBI blurred bystanders in the released clips. Advertisement What we know about the attackers trips Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a US Army veteran, first visited New Orleans in late October, travelling from his home in Texas. According to the FBI, he had also travelled to Egypt and Canada in the two years prior, though his activities during those trips remain unclear. FBI Special Agent Myrthil said, Our agents are getting answers to where he went, who he went with and how those trips may or may not tie into his actions here. During his first visit, as shown in video footage released by the FBI, Jabbar rode a bicycle slowly through the iconic French Quarter while using Meta smart glasses to film the area. Advertisement He made another trip to the city on November 10, the FBI confirmed. ALSO READ | New Orleans attack: Friends & family describe how reserved, smart Shamsud-Din descended into extremism Who was Shamsud-Din Jabbar? The 42-year-old US Army veteran grew up in Beaumont, a city in eastern Texas near the Louisiana border. Shamsud-Din Jabbar first visited New Orleans in late October, travelling from his home in Texas. Reuters/File Photo He was raised in a Muslim family but left the religion for many years before recently returning to his faith, according to his brother. Jabbars now-removed LinkedIn profile indicated that he served in various roles within the US Army, including human resources and IT, until his discharge in 2015. He was deployed to Afghanistan from February 2009 to January 2010. Advertisement His most recent residence was in Houston, Texas. How security has become a major concern ahead of other events now In the aftermath of the New Years Day attack, police have used vehicles and barricades to block traffic at the intersections of Bourbon and Canal streets. Other law enforcement agencies have stepped in to support New Orleans officers with heightened security measures, according to Reese Harper, a spokesperson for the New Orleans Police Department. The city faces more challenges as it prepares for upcoming events, including the first parade of the Carnival season leading to Mardi Gras on Monday evening and the Super Bowl on February 9. Earlier, New Orleans installed steel bollards in the French Quarter to restrict vehicle access to Bourbon Street. These bollards were designed to retract for deliveries to businesses. However, they stopped working when they became clogged with debris from Mardi Gras celebrations, including beads and beer. By New Years Eve, the bollards were no longer in place. Mayor LaToya Cantrell acknowledged that the city remains unsure whether the new bollards currently being installed in the French Quarter would be capable of stopping a similar vehicle attack. US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden are scheduled to visit New Orleans to grieve with the families and community members impacted by the tragic attack. A woman places flowers at a makeshift memorial for the victims at Bourbon Street. Reuters After signing the Social Security Fairness Act on Sunday, Biden told journalists that his message to the grieving families would be personal. He said, Ive been there. Theres nothing you can really say to somebody thats just had such a tragic loss, my message is going to be personal if I get to get them alone. Federal officials recovered two undetonated explosive devices that attacker Shamsud-Din Jabbar had placed. Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson of the ATF credited the quick response of New Orleans police for preventing the devices from being activated. Both were equipped with receivers, and a transmitter was found in Jabbars truck. Jabbar exited the crashed vehicle wearing a ballistic vest and helmet, opening fire on police and injuring two officers before he was shot. Bomb-making materials were later found at Jabbars home, including RDX, a chemical widely available in the US. Jackson revealed that Jabbar had attempted to burn down his rental house by starting a small fire, but the flames were extinguished before firefighters arrived. All 14 victims of the New Years attack have now been identified. The last victim named was Latasha Polk, a certified nursing assistant and mother of a 14-year-old, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry confirmed at a news conference. With inputs from agencies Dangerous wintry conditions heavy snow, freezing rain, shivering cold temperatures have descended on central parts of America as severe winter storm, Blair, is moving eastwards. Weather experts have warned people of dangerous, bone-chilling air and wind chills and urged people to stay indoors. But what is making the conditions so severe? read more Blair is here and shes brought the chill with her. We arent talking about a woman but the winter storm that has hit the Plains, Midwest, and mid-Atlantic US with snow, ice, and freezing temperatures ensuring that the new year will begin as a challenging one for up to 250 million people in 40 states. Dangerous wintry conditions have descended on large swathes of central US causing travel and work disruptions from Kansas City to Washington. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrations (NOAA) Weather Prediction Centre already predicted earlier that for some, this could be the heaviest snowfall in over a decade. Advertisement As the US struggles with the winter storm, we take a closer look at whats behind the storm and how bad is it. Winter Storm Blair and the Arctic Outbreak The storm dubbed Winter Storm Blair by the Weather Channel is the result of whats known as an Arctic Outbreak, which is itself a creature of the polar vortex. But what is an Arctic Outbreak? The National Weather Service defines an Arctic Outbreak as a very cold air mass that typically originates in the Siberian Region of Asia, crosses over the north pole into Canada and pushes south and east into the lower United States. A man makes his way through downtown Wichita, Kansas on a one-wheel electric scooter during a severe winter storm. AP While they occur annually, most do not reach the Gulf South due to steering currents. But the strongest outbreaks reach Gulf states approximately every four to five years on average, the weather service noted. Some weather experts note that the wintry conditions are in part owing to climate change. Judah Cohen, seasonal forecast director at the private firm Atmospheric and Environmental Research, told AP that the brutal weather may be spurred in part by a fast-warming Arctic. Storm snows in the US The storm, which began on Sunday (January 5), has already begun disrupting daily life in the US, with snow and ice blanketing major roadways in nearly all of Kansas, western Nebraska and parts of Indiana. According to Bob Oravec of the National Weather Service, the storm has put around 63 million people in the US under some kind of winter weather advisory. CNN further reported that of these 60 million, nearly four million are under blizzard warnings across much of eastern Kansas and western Missouri. A vehicle travels westbound in blizzard conditions during a winter storm on Interstate 70 in Topeka, Kansas. Reuters Owing to the dangerous conditions brought on by the storm, the National Weather Service has warned people to avoid travelling. Highways in northeastern Kansas are already shut due to impassable conditions. The closures included approximately 354 kilometres of the states main artery, Interstate 70, from the Missouri border into central Kansas. Advertisement Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, who declared a state emergency ahead of the storm, said state buildings would be closed Monday. The storm has also caused more than 1,500 flights across the US to be cancelled, with more expected to join the list. The most affected airports include Kansas City International, where almost 190 flights have been cancelled, and St. Louis Lambert International Airport, which has had over 190 cancellations. Chicago OHare International Airport had 120 cancellations and over 60 delays. Southwest Airlines accounted for most of the cancellations and delays, with over 230 flights cancelled and 250 delayed Sunday morning. A United Parcel Service, Inc (UPS) Boeing 747 cargo jet sits parked in the snow at Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in Louisville, Kentucky. Local forecasts called for heavy snowfall followed by significant accumulation of freezing rain and ice. AFP Moreover, some areas could see their biggest storm in more than a decade. The storm was moving toward the mid-Atlantic, where residents braced for heavy snow and cold temperatures. The NWS has also warned of significant icing. Total snow and sleet accumulations up to two inches and ice accumulations between one quarter and three-quarters of an inch, The National Weather Service said. Persons should delay all travel if possible. If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility. Advertisement The NWS also warned that this could be the heaviest snowfall in at least a decade. AccuWeather forecaster Dan DePodwin said: This could lead to the coldest January for the US since 2011. Theres also worry that the winter storm could cause disruptions with Congress certifying Trumps win. Today, US lawmakers are scheduled to meet at the Capitol to certify the winner of the US presidential elections that is Donald Trump. However, the wintry conditions could delay some lawmakers from arriving in Washington. A joint session of Congress is to convene at 1:00 pm local time (11.30 pm) on Monday. A plow clears a parking lot during a winter storm in Cincinnati. AP A cold future awaits the US Large parts of the US will continue to shiver this week with temperatures 12 to 25 degrees below normal being predicted. As per experts, wind gusts from the Central states into parts of the Tennessee Valley will make it feel even colder. Should the cold wave evolve to its full potential, maximum temperature departures could plunge 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit below the historical average from the northern Plains and Midwest to the interior Southeast, AccuWeather meteorologist Alex Duffus was quoted as telling USA Today. Advertisement Anticipating the worst, West Virginia and Kentucky have also set up warming centres for people who may need a warm place as power outages are expected. According to PowerOutage.US, already 40,000 people across Missouri, North Carolina, Kansas, Texas and Oklahoma are in the dark owing to power outages. With inputs from agencies A new study has found higher levels of certain proteins associated with various diseases and even death in people who reported loneliness or social isolation read more Loneliness, a silent epidemic haunting the world, has been linked to poor health and even early death. Now researchers from the United Kingdom and China have gone a step further to explain the association between loneliness and ill health. They say loneliness and social isolation can impact the levels of proteins associated with various diseases and death. While loneliness is a state of distress or discomfort caused by whether someone feels lonely, social isolation is a lack of social contact and relationships with others. Advertisement Lets take a closer look. How was the study conducted? Researchers used data from over 42,000 people who participated in the UK Biobank project to analyse the proteomes, the entire set of proteins made by an organism. With this, they were able to find out which proteins were present at higher levels in people who were socially isolated or lonely, and the link between these proteins and ill health, as per the University of Cambridge statement. Researchers took into account factors like age, sex, education level, smoking and alcohol consumption. The study explored whether the 9.3 per cent of participants who reported social isolation and 6.4 per cent who reported loneliness had different levels of proteins in their blood than those who did not, as per The Guardian report. Loneliness and social isolation can impact the levels of proteins associated with various diseases and even death. Representational Image/Pixabay The researchers deployed a method called Mendelian randomisation to study the relationship between social isolation and loneliness, as well as proteins. The study, published in the journal Nature Human Behaviour, was carried out by researchers from the UKs University of Cambridge and Fudan University in China. There are more than 100,000 proteins and many of their variants in the human body. AI and high throughput proteomics (the study of proteomes) can help us pinpoint some key proteins in prevention, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis in many human diseases and revolutionise the traditional view of human health, Professor Jianfeng Feng from the University of Warwick said in a statement. Advertisement What did the study find? The study found 175 proteins linked to social isolation and 26 proteins associated with self-reported loneliness, many of which overlapped. About 85 per cent of the proteins associated with loneliness were also linked to social isolation. Many of these proteins are produced in response to inflammation, viral infection and as part of our immune responses, as well as having been linked to cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and early death, the University of Cambridge said in a statement. ADM is one of the proteins produced at higher levels when a person is lonely. According to previous studies, ADM has a role in responding to stress and regulating stress and social hormones, the statement read. Another protein found in abundance was ASGR1, which is linked to higher cholesterol and an uptick in risk of cardiovascular disease. Other proteins identified play a role in the development of insulin resistance, cancer progression and so on. Advertisement As per The Guardian, researchers found that none of these proteins seemed to cause social isolation or loneliness. Using the Mendelian randomisation technique, the researchers identified five proteins that become abundant due to loneliness. We found all these five proteins are related to numerous inflammation and metabolic markers, said Dr Chun Shen, the first author of the research, from Fudan University in China, as per The Guardian. ALSO READ: Meet Hyodol, the AI doll that helps old adults beat loneliness in South Korea What have experts said? The study highlights the importance of social relationships in an individuals life. Loneliness and social isolation not only affect us mentally but also make us physically ill. The proteins we have identified give us clues to the biology underpinning poor health among people who are socially isolated or lonely, highlighting why social relationships play such an important part in keeping us healthy, Professor Feng said. Advertisement Speaking to The Guardian, Professor Marko Elovainio, of the University of Helsinki, who was not involved in the research, said the study supported previous works that showed that loneliness and social isolation (to some extent) were associated with various physical health issues, possibly due to systemic inflammatory processes induced by stress. A significant contribution of this study is that it now elucidates the biological mechanism proteins that may be responsible for the observed connections, he said. Experts say the study puts focus on the need to tackle social isolation and loneliness. Professor Barbara Sahakian from the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Cambridge said in a statement, These findings drive home the importance of social contact in keeping us well. More and more people of all ages are reporting feeling lonely. Thats why the World Health Organization has described social isolation and loneliness as a global public health concern. We need to find ways to tackle this growing problem and keep people connected to help them stay healthy. Advertisement With inputs from agencies The Delhi government has issued advisory to hospitals across the national capital to be prepared after Karnataka reports two cases, Indias first, of HMPV on Monday read more Two infants in Karnataka's Bengaluru have been tested positive for HMPV. Source: Reuters | Representational Image. After India reported its first two confirmed cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnatakas Bengaluru, the Health Department of Delhi on Monday released a health advisory for hospitals across the national capital. On Monday, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) said that the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) confirmed two cases of HMPV in Karnataka and both cases were identified through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens. Delhi issues advisory after India detects HMPV cases The Directorate general of Health services, Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi has advised the CDMO, MD/MS to ensure of the following: 1 - Availability of oxygen and other support consumables. Advertisement 2 - Paracetamol, Antihistaminics, Bronchodilators, Cough syrups for alleviating the symptoms in mild cases. 3 - Capacity building - including hygiene/patient safety measures. 4 - Also, hospitals across Delhi have been asked for identification of facilities to treat severe cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) with support system capacity especially for ventilator support and awareness generation amongst the Medical/ paramedical staff. Hospitals in Delhi have been asked to ensure timely reporting of all Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and SARI cases on the health ministrys Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) portal. Also, they have been asked for proper line listing of all cases of SARI and lab confirmed case of Influenza at IHIP-Portal Hospitals have been asked to isolate all suspect cases and adhere to other preventive measures to restrict the spread of the disease. The government hospitals have also been asked to liaison with private hospitals in their district with MSNH to ensure proper reporting and treatment. A helpline number of DGHS,HQ - 011-22307145 or 011-22300012 has been shared for information purposes. Also, hospitals have been asked to share or communicate feedback or necessary updates with Public Health division of DGHS by email at phw4delhi@yahoo.com India reports first case of HMPV A 3-month-old female infant and an 8-month-old male infant had tested positive for HMPV in Karnatakas Bengaluru. The female infant was diagnosed with HMPV after being admitted to Bengalurus Baptist Hospital with a history of bronchopneumonia. She has since been discharged. The male infant tested positive, who is also admitted to Baptist Hospital with a history of bronchopneumonia, is now recovering. Also Read: HMPV in India: ICMR confirms two cases from Karnatakas Bengaluru in routine surveillance Advertisement As per the Karnataka health ministry, neither of the patients nor their parents have any history of international travel. What is HMPV and how does it spread? Akin to Covid, the symptoms of HMPV are similar to the common cold in humans. Children, elderly (and above) and people with weak immune systems are most vulnerable to metapneumovirus. Several studies show most HMPV cases are mild in nature and most people get it before they turn five. The symptoms of the disease typically appear three to 10 days after infection. As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HMPV can cause respiratory diseases and spreads easily from person to person or from contaminated surfaces to people. The CDC said though it was only discovered in 2001, it is now recognised as a significant contributor to upper and lower respiratory tract infections. HMPV has flu-like symptoms and include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. Advertisement Recent reports of an outbreak of HMPV in China have raised alarm across the globe. Indias Ministry of Health said the situation in China is not unusual in view of the ongoing flu season. With inputs from agencies. Gujarat reported its first case of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in a two-month-old on Monday, following the confirmation of two cases in Bengaluru by the ICMR. This brings the total number of HMPV infections in India to three. read more Two infants in Karnataka's Bengaluru have been tested positive for HMPV. Source: Reuters | Representational Image. Gujarat reported its first case of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in a two-month-old on Monday. This came after the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) confirmed two cases of HMPV infection in Bengaluru. This brought the total number of reported HMPV infections in India to three on Monday. The infant, hailing from Rajasthans Dungarpur, had been admitted to a private hospital in Ahmedabad on December 24 with symptoms of respiratory infection. After tests, he was found positive for the HMPV, Ahmedabad Municipal Corporations in-charge medical officer of health Bhavin Solanki said. Advertisement HMPV (infection) was detected in the patient on December 26, but we learnt about it today as the private hospital reported it to us late, Solanki said. The patient was kept in isolation, the official said. The child was earlier kept on a ventilator, and his condition is stable now, Solanki said. Gujarat government issues advisory of Dos and Donts The Gujarat government has issued an advisory outlining the dos and donts related to the virus. The advisory from the Gujarat health and family welfare department says, In light of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China, reports have been circulating in both electronic and print media. On January 3, 2025, the DGHS, NCDC, MoH&FW, and the Government of India issued a statement confirming that Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is similar to other respiratory viruses. It is typically seen in winter, primarily affecting young children and the elderly, and presents symptoms similar to the common cold or flu. First cases reported from Bengaluru The cases in Bengaluru were also found in infants, and the ICMR said these cases were detected through routine surveillance. The Union health ministry stated that the ICMR identified these cases as part of its ongoing surveillance of respiratory viruses across the country. The first case in the country was confirmed on a eight-month-old in Bengaluru at Baptist Hospital, with tests of the virus conducted at a private hospital. News agency PTI quoted a Karnataka health department source as saying, The reports are from a private hospital, and we have no reason to doubt the test results. India monitoring situation The Union health ministry said it is monitoring the situation through all available surveillance channels. The World Health Organisation (WHO) is already providing timely updates regarding the situation in China to further inform the ongoing measures. Amid reports of rising cases of respiratory illnesses in China in the past few weeks, a meeting of the Joint Monitoring Group (JMG) was held under the chairmanship of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) on Saturday. Advertisement The Union health ministry emphasised that HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and cases of respiratory illnesses associated with it have been reported in various countries. It also said that the current data from the ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) network suggests that there has been no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases in the country. How does HMPV spread? Similar to COVID-19, HMPV spreads through droplets or aerosols generated by coughing, sneezing, and close contact with infected individuals. Common symptoms include fever, difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, cough, sore throat, and headaches. However, doctors have warned that some patients may develop bronchitis or pneumonia as a result of the infection. Currently, there is no vaccine or effective medication for HMPV, and treatment mainly focuses on alleviating symptoms. Chinas struggle to manage HMPV makes the world anxious Recently, HMPV cases have increased in China, especially in the northern provinces. To handle these outbreaks better, Chinas health authorities have set up a monitoring system. Online videos show Chinese hospitals struggling to manage patients, with many people saying the overcrowding is due to a sudden outbreak of HMPV. India has reported first cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) from Karnatakas Bengaluru. The ICMR has confirmed both the cases as of HMPV infection. read more The human metapneumovirus (HMPVI) mimics the symptom of the common cold. Image for Representation. Pixabay The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has confirmed two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnatakas Bengaluru. The ICMR said in a statement that the two cases were found through routine surveillance. Both the HMPV patients are infants. The reports of them testing positive for the virus that has made headlines in China came on Monday. The Union health ministry said the ICMR detected HMPV cases through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens, as part of its ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses across the country. Advertisement The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has detected two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka. Both cases were identified through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens, as part of ICMR's ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses pic.twitter.com/PtKYmgztKb ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025 Earlier, the Karnataka health department confirmed the first HMPV case in India from Bengalurus Baptist Hospital. The diagnostic test was conducted at a private hospital. News agency PTI quoted a Karnataka health department source as saying, The reports have come from a private hospital and we have no reason to doubt the tests of the private hospital. As per the state health department, the infant and its family had no history of recent travel. Also, the child did not show any concerning symptoms. The state officials also informed the Union Health Ministry about the HMPV case in Bengaluru and are likely waiting for further guidance from both the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the central ministry. Advertisement How does HMPV spread? Similar to COVID-19, HMPV spreads through droplets or aerosols generated by coughing, sneezing, and close contact with infected individuals. Common symptoms include fever, difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, cough, sore throat, and headaches. However, doctors have warned that some patients may develop bronchitis or pneumonia as a result of the infection. Currently, there is no vaccine or effective medication for HMPV, and treatment mainly focuses on alleviating symptoms. Chinas struggle to manage HMPV makes the world anxious Recently, there has been a rise in HMPV cases in China, especially in the northern provinces. To better manage and respond to such outbreaks, Chinas disease control authorities have implemented a monitoring system for the unknown virus attack. Recent videos circulating online show Chinese hospitals struggling to manage patients. Many claim that the hospital overcrowding has been caused by a sudden outbreak of infection caused by the Human Metapneumovirus or HMPV. There is news doing the rounds about a Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China which is serious. HMPV is a normal respiratory virus which causes symptoms like cold. Some people can get flu-like symptoms, especially elderly people and infants. But this is not something serious or worrisome, Dr Atul Goel, the director general of health services, said on Friday ahead of the meeting, TOI reported. Advertisement In his two-day visit, US National Security Advisor (NSA) Jake Sullivan will co-chair a meeting on the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) with his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval and hold talks on bilateral relationship with Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar read more US National Security Advisor (NSA) Jake Sullivan on Monday (January 6) met Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar. Sullivan is on a two-day visit to India to hold talks with Jaishankar and his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval. He is also expected to call upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi and hold a session with Indian entrepreneurs. Sullivans visit comes within two weeks of Jaishankars visit to the United States in which the two top officials met. During Jaishankars visit, he also met US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and US President-elect Donald Trumps NSA-designate Mike Waltz. Advertisement This is expected to be the last high-level engagement between the outgoing Joe Biden administration of the United States and the Indian government. Trump, who won the US presidential election in a landslide, will assume office on January 20. Focus on tech cooperation & Chinese dams During his visit, Sullivan will co-chair a meeting of the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) with Doval, according to Hindustan Times. The iCET is the bilateral mechanism between India and the United States to expand technology partnerships and defence industrial cooperation between their governments, businesses, and academic institutions in the domains of emerging, critical, and strategic technologies. The initiative was launched by President Biden and Prime Minister Modi in 2022. The iCET meeting will be the third such meeting that Sullivan and Doval will co-chair. Previously, Sullivan had travelled to India for the second meeting of iCET in June 2024. The visuals of the meeting between Sullivan and Jaishankar appeared in the media on Monday. #WATCH | External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar meets US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, in Delhi. pic.twitter.com/HiLyVPCqY9 ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025 Beside the hi-tech cooperation, Sullivans meetings are also expected to cover the Chinese regimes development of dams in the region bordering India, according to Reuters. Last month, China approved the construction of a dam on the Brahmaputra river in occupied Tibet region close to the border with India. The dam is expected to be the largest in the world. It is located close to the point where the river makes a u-turn to enter India from Tibet. There are concerns that China may weaponise the flow of water with the creation of the dam. Advertisement Ahead of Sullivans visit, a senior US official told Reuters that such a dam can have really potentially damaging effects on downstream countries like India. Weve certainly seen in many places in the Indo-Pacific that upstream dams that the Chinese have created, including in the Mekong region, can have really potentially damaging environmental but also climate impacts on downstream countries, said the senior US official. The news agency further reported that topics such as civilian nuclear cooperation, artificial intelligence, space, military licensing, and Chinese economic overcapacity will be discussed during the visit. In a statement ahead of Sullivans visit, the White House said that Sullivan will visit the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IIT-D), and meet young Indian entrepreneurs and talk about the progress India and the United States have made to strengthen innovation under iCET. Advertisement The root of it lies in Hindus stubborn non-conformity towards Left or Right frameworks, single-minded pursuit of excellence, coupled with a chronic inability to form any sort of political unity that would enable a meaningful pushback read more The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) Team at Capitol Hill for the 3rd National Hindu Advocacy Day, in Washington, DC, US, on June 28, 2024. Image: PTI Is this how a society declines? On the face of it, America is doing well. Very well, in fact. Its economy is booming, leaving rich competitors far behind. China, its nearest economic and military rival, is struggling with a slowdown. Chinese population is aging, stock market is tanking, foreign investment is declining, and a general mood of pessimism abounds. Xi Jinping tried his bit in lifting the spirits during his New Year address, but it does seem as if Beijing will take a very long time in catching up with the American economy, if ever, leave alone within a decade. Advertisement Americans have never had it so good. In terms of energy resources, relative age of population, vastness, robustness, dynamism of its consumer and capital markets, the vigour and vitality of its private sector, the United States is blazing a trail others are struggling to follow. To quote The Economist, In 1990 it (the US) accounted for about two-fifths of the GDP of the G7. Today it makes up half. Output per person is now about 30% higher than in western Europe and Canada, and 60% higher than in Japan gaps that have roughly doubled since 1990. Mississippi may be Americas poorest state, but its hard-working residents earn, on average, more than Brits, Canadians or Germans. And yet, despite this dream run, the Democrats were pumelled in the polls and economic discontent was a major plank for president-elect Donald Trump who will take over in a few days time. What gives? It turns out that a carcinogenic wound is festering within the American success story, eating away its society from within, and the dazzle of its economic strength and military might hides more than it shows. Politics offers some clues. Americas corrosive politics reflects the rift within its society. White America feels inadequate, left out and angry. It was the major driving force behind Trumps return to the White House who gave shape to the anger with his Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement. This was known. What remained unknown until very recently is the level of malice behind this resentment. Advertisement That became clear during the explosion of racism against Indians and Indian-Americans. The trigger was Trumps decision to appoint Sriram Krishnan, a Chennai-born tech expert, as Senior White House Policy Advisor on Artificial Intelligence. The spate of xenophobic attack against Indians or Americans of Indian descent the most hardworking and law-abiding migrant community by MAGA malcontents over the issue of immigration shows that for all of Americas progress, strength and the power of its thriving economy, a significant section of its population feel incompetent and shortchanged. Ironically, their rage has found expression through a cancerous attack against the healthiest building blocks of the American success story. Advertisement The nativist fury against Indians cannot simply be explained through economic competition, though that could be one of the aspects driving this hatred. The prejudice is borne out of a toxic mix of perceived racial superiority and a deep-seated fear that migrants good only for manual labour are stealing American jobs. White ego is bruised. Racism against Indians in America, of course, is nothing new. Hindoo History, a handle on X (formerly Twitter) that chronicles the history of Hindoos and Indians in America primarily through old newspaper clips, posts a report The Detroit Times in 1910. The Detroit Times, 1910 "HINDUS CONTINUE TO FLOCK TO U.S." "No Effort Made at Frisco to Stop Entry of Undesirables, Although Other Ports Bar Them" "The dumping place for the scum of the orient and India is San Francisco"#HindooHistory pic.twitter.com/7UgRbwU5mU HindooHistory (@HindooHistory) December 21, 2021 Advertisement Under the headline HINDUS CONTINUE TO FLOCK TO US, the newspaper report from over a 100 years ago states: No Effort Made at Frisco to Stop Entry of Undesirables, Although Other Ports Bar Them. It goes on to add that the dumping place for the scum of the orient and India is San Francisco. From this port the scum is distributed throughout California, Washington and Oregon. The scum of the orient is the Hindu. Dirty, dressed with yards of filthy white, green or blue cotton bound around the head Advertisement The Hindu stalks through the streets of the coast cities. He is the worst type of immigrant. He is not fit to become a citizen. His very mode of life makes him entirely foreign to the people of the United States. One will be hard pressed to find any difference in the discourse on Indians between then and now. The H1B visa controversy, which in its essence is a backlash against immigration, is an extension of the same sentiment. It reveals two distinct things about America. U.S. Customs and I have that in common! https://t.co/hynNbuIMdH Lauren Witzke (@LaurenWitzkeDE) January 4, 2025 1. The MAGA coalition is coming unstuck The MAGA coalition of Christians, white nationalists, groypers (a loose bunch of racists that spread antisemitic and Hinduphobic views online) as well as some Silicon Valley tech entrepreneurs that unified the Republican voter base and took on the Democratic election machinery to deliver the results for Trump, is at risk of coming unstuck due to a fundamental difference over immigrant talent under programs such as H1B visa that are indispensable for the American growth story. The Trump voter base is split down the middle and at war with itself. The primary location of the battle is Elon Musk-owned social media site X. The white nativists are against all forms of immigration. As long as those in question are illegal immigrants from Americas southern border the unvetted millions that entered during the Biden-Harris administration triggering a voter backlash the coalition holds. Musk, for instance, frequently railed against illegal immigrants. So did his DOGE colleague Vivek Ramaswamy who has called for mass deportation of illegal immigrants, stating that individuals who enter the US illegally cannot be allowed to stay. One of the MAGA coalitions opt-repeated narratives was that Democrats were letting in undocumented immigrants by the thousands to commit large-scale voter fraud in presidential elections. Trouble arose when the debate turned to legal immigrants. The MAGA base is not ready to accept the fact that there is a shortage of skilled technical workers in the US, and that the tech titans of Silicon Valley rely on imported human capital, among which Indian professionals are the most sought after, to sustain Americas global leadership in cutting-edge technological advancements. For the anti-immigrant MAGA base, Indians, the engine behind Americas technological edge, are the most hated outgroup. Though most Indians enter America legally, and that too through the employer-sponsored visa program intended for talented professionals, the fact that they are the recipient of the highest number of H1B visas used primarily for technological jobs such as data analytics, cloud computing, cyber security, AI, generative AI and IT allied IT services industries make them the MAGA punching bag. For instance, as BBC points out, Indian-born Silicon Valley CEOs are part of a four million-strong minority group that is among the wealthiest and most educated in the US. About a million of them are scientists and engineers. More than 70% of H-1B visas work permits for foreigners issued by the US go to Indian software engineers, and 40% of all foreign-born engineers in cities like Seattle are from India. The white nativists, out-educated, outclassed, outsmarted, outshined and upstaged by high-skilled, brown-skinned cohort from abroad, accuse Indians of robbing American aspirants by undercutting the visa program. Their impotent rage and divisive rhetoric are aimed as much at H1B visa holders as the employers who are inviting them such as Musk, Googles Sundar Pichai, Microsofts Satya Nadella or IBMs Arvind Krishna. Musk, who promises to wield enormous influence in the upcoming Trump 2.0 administration, runs Space X and Tesla, and is among the top employers of H1B visa holders. He has declared war against the hateful racists and incompetent fools who must be removed root and stem from the Republican Party. Once a holder of H1B visa, Musk says there is a severe shortage of native talent in America. Of course my companies and I would prefer to hire Americans and we DO, as that is MUCH easier than going through the incredibly painful and slow work visa process However, there is a dire shortage of extremely talented and motivated engineers in America. His ally Vivek Ramaswamy, whose parents are from India, has blamed it on American culture that venerates mediocrity over excellence, celebrates the prom queen over the math olympiad champ, or the jock over the valedictorian, and will not produce the best engineers, prompting even more bile from the MAGA base. Vivek Ramaswamy running a poop gas station. pic.twitter.com/k7Vg04KSCB Red Panda Politics #TrumpVance24 (@RPP_TheReal) December 27, 2024 Caught in this battle are the Indians and Indian-Americans who form around one-third of tech employees in Silicon Valley and according to a report, CEOs of Indian origin head 16 Fortune 500 companies and collectively employ 2.7 million Americans and generate nearly $1 trillion in revenue. 2. The Horseshoe theory The horseshoe theory, attributed to French philosopher Jean-Pierre Faye, hinges on the idea that extremes meet, and that far-Left and far-Right politics have more ideological alignment in a political spectrum than the political centre. The efficacy of this theory, that has its critics, can be tested in the current controversy. While the American Rights xenophobia against Indians and Indian-Americans particularly Hindus is framed as economic anxiety, the roots of it lie much deeper in White Christian prejudice against Hindu Indians. The hatred has therefore been more visceral and guttural, seeking to dehumanize Indians and cast them as a demon-worshipping inferior race that wallows in human and animal excreta. I was wondering the same thing pic.twitter.com/7ds6Oh9PUU Lauren Witzke (@LaurenWitzkeDE) January 4, 2025 If the Rights racism is explicit, the Lefts more subtle and hypocritical. The Left in the US proposes that Americans suffer from systemic racism and aims to take up the cudgel for minorities of all stripes, but that model breaks down when it comes to Indians and Hindus even though this community the richest among migrant communities is frequently touted as a model minority and contributes more than it takes away. It seems incredible, therefore, on the hatred against Hindus, the cosmopolitan Left and the nativist Right meet in a stunning confluence of indentitarian politics. Bernie Sanders comes out against H1B visas, singing the MAGA anthem in all earnest, while New York Times, the torchbearer of the Liberal Left, finds in H1B holders the only immigrants worth criticizing. The newspaper loses its voice when it comes to unvetted, illegal aliens sneaking into America from the southern border but comes out swinging against legally admitted high-skilled workers who anyway cannot be hired by employers in America unless labour department compliances arent met. The New York Times editorial, for instance, blames Musk, accuses Indian IT firms of exploitation, and claims that Americans working in the tech industry have been systematically laid off and replaced by cheaper H-1B visa holders. It claims most H-1B visa holders are lower-paid labor, not top talent. This is false, since the US has legal safeguards in place that make it impossible for firms to hire foreign workers by bypassing Americans qualified for the job. The American Lefts support for ethno-nationalism and subtle boosting of the Rights explicit racism proves the efficacy of the horseshoe theory. The Hindus are soft targets for racist attacks from the Left and Right because they dont aspire to win gold medal in oppression Olympics. While the Left seeks to impose the oppressor-oppressive framework on immigrants, the Right seeks to achieve through legislation that it cannot through free competition. Hindus in America fit neither of the modules. They break all stereotypes. According to data from Migration Policy Institute (MPI), In 2023, households headed by an Indian immigrant had a median annual income of $166,200, compared to $78,700 for all immigrant-led and $77,600 for native-led households. Alongside, Indian immigrants are much more likely to be proficient in English than the overall foreign-born population. In 2023, 21 percent of Indians ages 5 and over reported speaking English less than very well, compared to 47 percent of all immigrants. So, what explains the persecution of Hindu diaspora? The root of it lies in Hindus stubborn non-conformity towards Left or Right frameworks, single-minded pursuit of excellence, coupled with a chronic inability to form any sort of political unity that would enable a meaningful pushback. As Amit Majumdar writes in a brilliant essay for The Open magazine, Alarmingly, Hindus have proven, so far, an exception to the rule that persecution short of eradication hardens, unites, and activates a religious group. Instantaneous dissemination of images of attacks on Hinduswhether a pogrom in rural Bangladesh, or a brutal temple invasion in Canadahave yet to conjure effective, transnational mass agitation. They are incapable of imitating the Muslims, whose political unity and religious cohesion give them a potent leverage and fearsome bargaining power. Finally, it has been sad to watch the inversion of moral polarity in Western societies that seek to lionize, even justify the triumphalism or misdeeds of a community that readily indulges in violence or sexual predatory behaviour while unleashing racist animus against a community that contributes far more than it takes in its adopted nation. The writer is Deputy Executive Editor, Firstpost. He tweets as @sreemoytalukdar. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. As India and China navigate the complexities of the 2020s, they face a choice: to pursue a route of cooperation while managing competition for mutual shared benefit or to let competition lead to confrontation, rivalry, and distrust read more The India-China relations, though webbed in complexity and distrust, are one of the most important bilateral relationships in the world. Both nations play a pivotal role in shaping the emerging multipolar world order and global stability. The contours of their relationships will contribute significantly to global security and economic prosperity. However, the numerous complexities and contradictions marred with a lack of trust and historical baggage will need to be overcome by visionary leadership and astute diplomacy on both sides, along with trust-building measures. Advertisement Thus 2025 remains a pivotal year in determining the future course of bridging the divide or widening the rift. The future lies in cooperation and not confrontation, which requires a paradigm shift and both taking initiatives. The 3D formuladisengagement, de-escalation, and de-inductionmust lead to the 3C strategyconfidence, cooperation, and collaborationfor a more stable and prosperous world. A Legacy of Uncertainty and Strategic Adjustment The relationship between India and China has traditionally been turbulent and, at best, a pendulum sway. From the 1950s, both nations carved out their independent regional identities and aligned their national interests and international relations in response to the dynamic geopolitical landscape. However, while India offered a democratic, peaceful model, China preferred a hegemonic model. This clash of culture and ideology often led to confrontation of interest and competition, resulting in regional rivalry. Chinas repeated non-adherence to pacts/treaties, along with disputed borders and collusion with Pakistan, created a trust deficit. Yet post-1962, both nations found ways to stabilise their relationship even amid deep-rooted differences, especially over territorial disputes. The military confrontation at Galwan Valley in 2020, and the subsequent standoff, brought both nations to the brink of war yet again. It was a reminder of the grim reality of the volatility that remains in India-China ties. However, the eventual military disengagement, facilitated by way of political and astute diplomacy, demonstrated the strategic intent of preventing the situation from spiralling out of control. It also demonstrated that the existing military equation cannot assure victory for any side. This restraint and detente, although commendable, should not obscure the larger, more profound challenges facing the relationship in the years ahead. The Context of Multipolarity and Global Shifts The world is seeing a transition to a multi-engagement world order shaped by competition to secure strategic influence with overlapping and often conflicting interests. While the debate is on bipolar and multipolar world order, the truth seemingly is unfolding in multiple directions of multi-engagement. A world order with new power blocks is emerging. Both China, as an emerging global power, and India, as a rising regional power, have vested stakes in shaping it. Yet, both countries share a common vision of a more inclusive, non-Western-dominated international system. In this context, India and China are not just rivals but potential partners in building a broader framework for a multipolar world. Advertisement This represents a departure from their historic competition and a common destination of shared, inclusive growth and development-orientated cooperation. In this sense, India and China have the opportunity to shape the international order that is more inclusive and less dominated by the exceptionalism and unilateralism of the West. However, Chinas authoritarian model and its expansionist overtures, both on land and at sea, have challenged the peaceful democratic model of India. This is compounded by the unresolved disputed borders, which remain a potential flashpoint. Yet, both nations have made conscious efforts to stabilise ties both bilaterally and multilaterally via collaborative forums such as the BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) for a shared vision of growth cum stability. Advertisement Globalisation and Economic Priorities The present model of globalisation is defined by increasing protectionism, rising nationalism, and the fractured global supply chain controlled by the West and China. This has been a lesson of COVID-19 and its impact on the global economy. India and China, as leading global economies and representatives of the developing world, have a shared responsibility to reform the global economic system to make it more inclusive and resilient. China, with its large industrial capacity and technological prowess, is a key player in this new economic order. Indias continued reliance on Chinese imports, especially in important areas like electronics, telecommunications, infrastructure, and machinery, continues to be a strategic vulnerability. Advertisement In 2023, China and India built a strong trade relationship, with their trade hitting a record $136.2 billion. However, this growth conceals Indias trade imbalance with China and its vulnerabilities. This imbalance, driven by Indias reliance on Chinese industrial products and raw materials, has become a challenge meriting delinking and diversification. While China and India have the potential for significant technology cooperation, India is increasingly cautious about Chinas dominance in technology, especially in areas related to security. India has started to shield its digital systems from Chinese impact by blocking apps such as TikTok and carefully checking Chinese investments in important sectors. As countries compete more fiercely to lead in fields like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and 5G, Indias ties with the U.S. and other countries aim to reduce its current reliance on China. Advertisement Despite their differences, adequate scope exists for India and China to collaborate in various areas without compromising national interests. These include alternate fuel development, climate change, geosciences, ocean technology, and public health. India and China are both billion-population countries, and together the two countries are only next to the US in GDP and would form a triangle of leading economies in the next two decades. While infrastructure is Chinas key strength, India enjoyed an advantage in skilled labour. As the two largest economies by population, increased communication and collaboration between China and India could foster mutual benefits and drive economic growth for both nations. The Path Forward: Cooperation or Rivalry? As India and China navigate the complexities of the 2020s, they face a choice: to pursue a route of cooperation while managing competition for mutual shared benefit or to let competition lead to confrontation, rivalry, and distrust. A strategic commitment to cooperation and managing competition from derailing the peace could allow India and China to manage their differences, particularly on the issue of the border, and channel their collective effort to shared economic growth and stability. India and China stand to benefit from enhanced trade, investment, and technology exchanges to modernise their economies, reduce dependencies on the West, and promote shared interests in areas like climate change, global health, technology transfer, and multilateral trade. Conversely, failure to resolve underlying tensions and rivalry could lead to increased competition and confrontation, not just in the military domain, but also in the economic and diplomatic arenas. An adversarial relationship between the two countries would destabilise the region, invite foreign interference, and derail the larger goal of a multipolar global order. Such an outcome could have undesirable fallout for regional stability, where both countries are competing for influence. Challenge for 2025 China and India both stand at a crucial phase of their respective modernisation endeavours, and development is now the biggest shared goal of both nations. China is advancing on all fronts through a Chinese path to modernisation. India has also put forward the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. How they traverse this path, overcoming irritants and challenges, will decide their future. 2025 marks a year that holds the opportunity to reset the India-China relationship with bold and innovative wisdom in a world beset by growing geopolitical tensions, economic fragmentation, and social upheaval. The political will and visionary leadership of both countries will be central to determining the trajectory of India-China relations in the coming years. The strategic choices are limited, as are the engagements shaping the futurecooperation or rivalry. The strategic choice they make will decide their future: will they transcend their historical differences and bridge the divide or travel on a course that widens the rift? The author is former Director General, Mechanised Forces. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. The last few years have been a time of change for Indias neighbourhood. A new government was chosen in Sri Lanka and Nepal; Imran Khan lost the confidence motion, ceasing to hold the office of prime minister; the Taliban took over Afghanistan; the military junta took control of Myanmar; and there was a regime change in Bangladesh. While all these developments have an impact on Indias bilateral relations and security, it is the northeastern border of India that has been much in the news. With the chaos in Myanmar since the military coup in 2021 and Bangladeshs unstable internal security, it is not a surprise that Indias northeastern border, one of the most volatile regions in Asia, is on high alert. Advertisement But apart from the internal conflict in both these countries and multiple stakeholders, all eyes are now on the Donald J Trump presidency and how the US will engage with these countries. After all, it has been widely speculated that the US had a definitive role in the unceremonious ouster of the democratically elected leader of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina. In Myanmar too, the much talked about Burma Act HR 5497 was welcomed by various anti-junta groups in Myanmar in the hope that there would be increased US pressure on the Tatmadaw. India, on the other hand, has had to navigate a serpentine route. India called for peace but did not sever ties even at the behest of Western powers. Many would conclude that the fall of Bangladesh might be the West teaching India a lesson for not adhering to their policy on the war. Indias stance undoubtedly put pressure on India-US ties. Today, India is uncomfortable with the new regime in Bangladesh, especially because of the security implications for its northeastern borders and concern for the safety of minorities in Bangladesh. However, on Diwali last year, the then president hopeful, Donald Trump, gave a strong message on X condemning the violence against minorities in Bangladesh. He wrote, Kamala and Joe have ignored Hindus across the world and in America, and under my administration we will also strengthen our great partnership with India and my good friend, Prime Minister Modi. While his statement has been widely seen as a positive indication for India-US relations, there are many other matters, such as Khalistani separatist groups and individuals on American soil, that need resolution. The Muhammad Yunus-led interim government has had a good relationship with Washington, which Yunus will not want to jeopardise with Trump. But typical of Trump, he may not have forgotten what Yunus said when he won the 2016 elections against Hillary Clinton. Yunus, an old friend of the Clintons, had said the victory had shattered him so much that he could barely speak or move around. He likened the results to a solar eclipse and the future full of dark days. Advertisement Additionally, with Tulsi Gabbard, an ISKCON devotee and now Trumps choice for Director of National Intelligence, there is expected to be a pushback against the attack on temples and arrest of ISKCON functionaries. Even though US foreign policy will serve its own national priorities first and not change unless there are threats to its own interests, Trumps positive relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi might be an influencing factor. For India, its northeast borders are large and porous and are under constant threat from militant organisations from Bangladesh and ethnic armed organisations from Myanmar, making it a priority for Modi. Recently, Bangladesh, in a direct provocation to India, had released Islamist Jashimuddin Rahmani Hafi, who had plotted terror attacks on India. Rahmani, the chief of the al-Qaeda affiliate, Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT), asked West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to declare independence from Modis rule. The recently freed terrorist also said that India will be partitioned, and Islamist flags hoisted over Delhi. With multiple such incidents, the threat is not just to India but also to the rise of Islamic radicalisation and regional stability, which is imminent. The Trump administration would benefit from viewing the impact of displacing a democratically elected government with an interim one from the lens of Indias security. Nevertheless, the one issue that is entirely predictable is that the interim government will not be successful in pushing its agenda to resettle Rohingya refugees in other countries like the US. Advertisement Similarly, in the case of Myanmar, a country whose resistance, ethnic armed organisations under the umbrella of the National Unity Government (NUG), has depended largely on support from the US and other Western countries. The Thai-Myanmar border has over 90,000 refugees spread over nine camps that have been hoping to immigrate to the US for decades. Since the 2021 coup, there are 45,000 more hoping to move to the US under the Temporary Protection Program. However, with Trump at the helm, its unlikely that there is going to be any movement on this front. Trump is also likely to scrutinise the aid being dispensed to Myanmar under the Burma Act, which allocated $121 million for 2024. This could be debilitating for Myanmar. Advertisement A United Nations Development Program (UNDP) report has stated that the condition of Rakhine state is a famine in the making. By March-April 2025, domestic food production will only cover 20 per cent of the states needs, and over 2 million people are at risk of starvation. Critically, the result of this scenario would be more missionaries, aid agencies, and activism, some, if not all, with vested interests, finding a foothold in the region. It was not long ago that Sheikh Hasina, as the prime minister of Bangladesh, had alleged Western interest in carving out a Christian state from parts of Bangladesh, Myanmar, and a third country that she did not name. Nevertheless, it was not lost on anyone that she was alluding to India on its northeastern border. Advertisement With the impending disaster of starvation and the ongoing conflict and migration, it is only reasonable to expect Indias northeastern borders to be burdened with the fallout of Myanmars internal issues. The Manipur conflict in India was possibly the first indicator of the impact of Myanmars conflict on India. With Trump in Washington, his America First policy will directly have an impact on Myanmar, with ripples felt through the northeast region of India. Furthermore, if the Trump administration meddles with the Malacca Strait or St Martins Island, it is possible that China may need to increase its footprint in Myanmar. The $8.9 million rail link that has been planned from Kunming to Kyaukphyu by China will become a priority as it will connect to the Kyaukphyu deep sea port. And any changes in the much talked about St Martins Island may promote China to increase its surveillance on the Coco Islands, which happen to be only 55 km away from Indias Andaman and Nicobar Islands, leading to anxiety for all stakeholders in the Bay of Bengal. India must prioritise its northeastern borders while building upon the goodwill that Modi built with Trump in 2016. India certainly is more prepared for the Trump presidency today than it was for his first term. While Trump attends the Quad summit this year, India will welcome him as it did in 2020, with enthusiasm. But the US must also realise that Indias large democratic population is of consequence to the world and that it has a close civilisational relationship with the neighbourhood. Any attempt at destabilising the region will result in a loss of trust and goodwill. Once, famously, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called out the cherry-picking by the West. He said of the European mindset that Europes problems are the worlds problems, but the worlds problems are not Europes problems. That if it is you, its yours; if it is me, it is ours. Therefore, for India, the direction that the Trump presidency will take towards Indias security concerns, especially on its northeast borders, will be evident through his diplomatic engagements in Indias neighbourhood. Rami Niranjan Desai is an anthropologist and a scholar of the northeast region of India. She is a columnist and author and presently Distinguished Fellow at India Foundation, New Delhi. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the views of Firstpost. Cooks donation is part a broader trend of tech leaders keen to curry favour with Trumps administration. Executives from Meta, Amazon, and other Silicon Valley powerhouses have also been spotted mingling at Mar-a-Lago and contributing hefty sums to the inauguration fund read more Cooks move is seen as an attempt to ensure Apple maintains a strong position in a political environment that has often been unpredictable for big tech. Image Credit: Reuters Apple CEO Tim Cook has stepped into the spotlight with a surprising personal gesture ahead of Donald Trumps inauguration as President of the United States. A report by Axios reveals that Cook has contributed $1 million from his own pocket to Trumps inauguration fund, a move thats as strategic as it is eye-catching. With Trumps swearing-in set for 20 January 2025, the tech world is buzzing with efforts to get on the new administrations radar, and eventually onto its good books. Interestingly, this isnt Apples money at play; the contribution is entirely Cooks initiative. Advertisement Cooks strategy Tim Cooks decision isnt just about ceremony; its about strategy. Cooks move is seen as an attempt to ensure Apple maintains a strong position in a political environment that has often been unpredictable for big tech. While Apples official stance has been neutral, Cooks actions ranging from congratulatory posts to a dinner with Trump post-election show hes carefully navigating the political waters. As one of the worlds leading tech giants, Apple faces a barrage of challenges, from global regulatory pressures to potential tariffs that could impact its profit margins. Maintaining a favourable relationship with the incoming administration could help Apple sidestep some of these hurdles. For Cook, keeping Trump on his side isnt just good sense it might be critical for Apples continued dominance. Joining a growing club of tech giants Cooks donation isnt an isolated move. Hes part of a broader trend of tech leaders keen to curry favour with Trumps administration. Executives from Meta, Amazon, OpenAI and other Silicon Valley powerhouses have also been spotted mingling at Mar-a-Lago and contributing hefty sums to the inauguration fund. These gestures reflect the pragmatic approach of industry leaders who understand that political alignment cant be ignored in the high-stakes world of tech. Strategic gamble or a winning play? Cooks actions highlight the tightrope walk tech leaders face in politically charged times. Every new president brings a unique set of challenges for the industry, whether its concerns over breaking up big tech or strained relations with countries like China, where Apples manufacturing thrives. Cooks $1 million bet on Trump may raise eyebrows, but for a CEO of his calibre, its a calculated risk aimed at securing Apples future. Only time will tell if this strategy pays off. These advanced batteries, which offer higher energy density than traditional graphite-based cells, are already being adopted by major Chinese smartphone brands. Silicon-anode batteries represent a significant leap in mobile technology, offering up to 15% more capacity read more While smartphones are currently the primary focus, the potential for silicon batteries in electric vehicles (EVs) has captured the attention of industry players. Image Credit: Reuters TDK, a key supplier of Apples iPhone batteries, is stepping up its game to meet the increasing power demands of mobile devices equipped with artificial intelligence (AI). The Tokyo-based company plans to begin mass production of its third-generation silicon-anode lithium-ion batteries by late summer, aiming to provide more energy-efficient solutions for cutting-edge smartphones. These advanced batteries, which offer higher energy density than traditional graphite-based cells, are already being adopted by major Chinese smartphone brands. TDKs CEO, Noboru Saito, emphasised the companys commitment to innovation, describing their ongoing investment in research and development as a cornerstone of their business strategy. Advertisement Silicon batteries: Small size, massive power Silicon-anode batteries represent a significant leap in mobile technology, offering up to 15 per cent more capacity than their predecessors. First introduced in 2023 by TDKs subsidiary, Amperex Technology (ATL), these batteries are making waves in the industry. For example, the Vivo X200 Pro now houses a 6,000mAh battery in the same form factor as phones typically limited to 5,000mAh, thanks to this technology. The complexity of manufacturing silicon batteries has so far limited their mass adoption, but TDK remains ahead of the curve. According to analysts, the company is the only one capable of producing these batteries at scale, a feat that positions it as a leader but raises concerns about supply constraints for its customers. EVs the next frontier While smartphones are currently the primary focus, the potential for silicon batteries in electric vehicles (EVs) has captured the attention of industry players. TDKs silicon-anode supplier, US-based Group14 Technologies, notes that virtually all major automakers are exploring the technology. The appeal lies in its ability to drastically reduce charging times, potentially recharging EV batteries in as little as five to seven minutes compared to the 40 minutes needed with current graphite-based cells. Rivals such as LG Energy Solution and Samsung SDI are also developing silicon batteries for EVs, signalling a broader shift toward adopting this technology beyond mobile devices. TDKs strategic edge in a growing market TDKs advantage lies in its speed to mass production and ATLs expertise in assembling complex components. While the silicon-anode segment remains small, Saito is optimistic about its gradual growth, emphasising the step-by-step progress customers are likely to see in adopting the technology. However, analysts warn that being the sole producer of such advanced batteries could pose challenges. Limited supply could deter widespread adoption, even as demand for high-capacity, efficient batteries continues to rise. Still, TDKs early lead and focus on innovation position it strongly in a market poised for significant expansion across both smartphones and EVs. The proposed five-year agreement aims to equip the Italian government with top-level encryption for telephone and internet services, alongside additional communication capabilities for its military in the Mediterranean region read more Negotiations began between Italy Starlink and in mid-2023 but faced delays due to concerns from some Italian officials about potential impacts on local telecom providers. Image Credit: Reuters Italy is moving towards a landmark 1.5 billion euros (US$1.6 billion) deal with Elon Musks SpaceX to provide secure telecommunications services for its government, marking what could become Europes largest such project. Discussions, while not finalised, have gained momentum after a meeting between Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and US President-elect Donald Trump in Florida. The deal has already received approval from Italys Intelligence Services and Defence Ministry, signalling its strategic importance. Advertisement A comprehensive plan for secure communication The proposed five-year agreement aims to equip the Italian government with top-level encryption for telephone and internet services, alongside additional communication capabilities for its military in the Mediterranean region. The plan also includes the roll-out of direct-to-cell satellite services for emergencies like natural disasters or terror attacks. Negotiations began in mid-2023 but faced delays due to concerns from some Italian officials about potential impacts on local telecom providers. Despite this, the project reflects Italys growing interest in leveraging cutting-edge satellite technology for national security and emergency preparedness. This potential deal comes as SpaceXs Starlink satellite internet service continues its rapid global expansion. In 2025 alone, Starlink added over 20 countries, from Ghana to Argentina, bringing its service to more than 100 nations and territories with a user base exceeding four million. SpaceXs mix of technological innovation and Musks increasing political influence has allowed it to outpace traditional telecom providers and competitors like Amazon and China-backed initiatives. Starlinks services range from residential internet to applications for maritime, aviation, and defence sectors. For Italy, its military and government applications, particularly the Starshield platform designed for secure uses, are a significant draw. A competitive landscape for Italian telecoms Italys telecom market, one of the most competitive in the world, is undergoing rapid changes. Local carriers have faced shrinking profits, leading to industry consolidation and asset sales. In 2024, Telecom Italia sold its landline network to US private equity firm KKR & Co for 22 billion, a deal strongly supported by Melonis government to reduce national debt. While Italy considers telecommunications a strategic asset and holds stakes in major carriers like FiberCop and Open Fiber, the integration of SpaceX services poses challenges. Starlinks rapid roll-out in Italy has already faced pushback, with claims of obstruction from Telecom Italia. The government has also explored alternatives, such as the EUs IRIS Satellite Constellation and building its own satellite network, but both options carry significantly higher costs, estimated at over 10 billion. If finalised, the deal with SpaceX would place Italy at the forefront of Europes secure satellite communication efforts, solidifying Starlinks foothold in the region. Advertisement The selected filmmakers will be mentored by an illustrious panel of industry veterans, which include Actor and director Konkona Sen Sharma, celebrated filmmaker Lijo Jose Pellissery, acclaimed director-producer Vikramaditya Motwane, and renowned filmmaker Vetri Maaran read more This years edition is particularly noteworthy for its focus on inclusivity. MAMI has expanded the call for applications nationwide and is also championing regional cinema by requiring films to be created in one of four languagesHindi, Malayalam, Marathi, and Tamil. Image Credit: Apple The Mumbai Academy of Moving Images (MAMI) Mumbai Film Festival is bringing back its innovative MAMI Select Filmed on iPhone initiative for a second edition. This trailblazing programme is designed to empower emerging filmmakers from across India, offering them state-of-the-art tools and a platform to showcase their creativity. Selected filmmakers will receive an iPhone 16 Pro Max to shoot their films, a MacBook Pro for editing, and a generous grant to fund their projects. Advertisement This years edition is particularly noteworthy for its focus on inclusivity. MAMI has expanded the call for applications nationwide, aiming to discover fresh voices from every corner of India. The initiative is also championing regional cinema by requiring films to be created in one of four languagesHindi, Malayalam, Marathi, and Tamilensuring that diverse stories and cultures take centre stage. Nationwide Hunt for Fresh Voices MAMIs decision to open applications across the country reflects its commitment to unearthing talent from all regions and backgrounds. Aspiring filmmakers are invited to submit their entries for a chance to produce a short film between 20 and 40 minutes long. This structure ensures the spotlight is shared among Indias myriad cultures and linguistic traditions. Festival Director Shivendra Singh Dungarpur emphasised the programmes inclusive vision, saying, For the first time, we have opened the call for applications across the country to make films in four regional languages. The initiative not only provides a platform for emerging artists but also highlights the storytelling potential of modern technology, with the iPhone 16 Pro Max serving as the primary tool for filming. Guided by Industry Titans The selected filmmakers wont embark on this journey alonetheyll be mentored by an illustrious panel of industry veterans. Actor and director Konkona Sen Sharma, celebrated Malayalam filmmaker Lijo Jose Pellissery, acclaimed director-producer Vikramaditya Motwane, and renowned Tamil filmmaker Vetri Maaran will work closely with the participants. These mentors will offer guidance throughout the production process, from story development to post-production, helping to refine narratives and push the boundaries of creative expression. Motwane, returning as a mentor, shared his enthusiasm: I was completely blown away by the quality of storytelling and technical finesse last year. I cannot wait to see what magic this years filmmakers create. Pellissery lauded the initiative for its focus on regional talent, describing it as an excellent platform to identify and support filmmakers from different parts of India. Vetri Maaran, mentoring the Tamil-language film, said he was proud to be part of a programme that promotes diverse voices and offers a stage for emerging talent. Konkona Sen Sharma expressed her excitement about working with young filmmakers, praising MAMI for fostering independent cinema. A Cinematic Showcase for All The short films created through the programme will premiere at a special screening event before being made available on MAMIs YouTube channel, ensuring they reach a wide audience. This accessibility aligns with MAMIs mission to champion new voices in Indian cinema and bring fresh stories to the forefront. Applications are open until 19 January on the festivals official website, inviting young filmmakers to seize this unique opportunity. With cutting-edge technology, expert mentorship, and a platform to showcase their work, the second edition of MAMI Select Filmed on iPhone is set to redefine the possibilities of independent filmmaking in India. Advertisement Palestinian terrorists have fired thousands of rockets and missiles towards Israel since the war began on Oct. 7, 2023. Israels military offensive has turned vast swathes of Gaza into an uninhabitable wasteland, erasing whole neighborhoods. read more Three Israelis were killed and eight others injured in a Palestinian shooting attack targeting a bus and two cars in the northern part of the occupied West Bank, according to the Israeli military and paramedics. The victims included two women in their 70s and a 35-year-old police officer, while the bus driver sustained serious injuries. The Israeli military said that terrorists opened fire on the vehicles near the village of al-Funduq, situated along Highway 55, before fleeing the scene. Advertisement Israeli soldiers have launched widespread operations in the northern West Bank looking for the attackers. Israel captured the West Bank, Gaza and east Jerusalem in the 1967 Mideast war, and the Palestinians seek all three territories for their future state. Meanwhile, the war in Gaza is raging with no end in sight, although there has reportedly been recent progress in long-running talks aimed at a ceasefire and release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. Israels war in Gaza has killed over 45,800 Palestinians, according to local health authorities, who say women and children make up more than half of those killed. They do not say how many of the dead were militants. The war began when Hamas-led militants stormed across the border in a massive surprise attack nearly 15 months ago, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting around 250. Some 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, at least a third of whom are believed to be dead. With inputs from agencies. Amid reports indicating progress in indirect talks between Israel and Hamas for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages, Mossad chief David Barnea is expected to visit Qatari capital Doha today read more David Barnea, the head of the Israeli Mossad attends an honour guard ceremony for Israel's incoming military chief Herzi Halevi at Israel's Defence Ministry in Tel Aviv, Israel January 16, 2023. (Photo: Reuters) Amid slow progress in talks between Israel and Hamas, Mossad chief David Barnea is going to Qatars capital Doha for more talks, according to a report. The visit comes amid a slew of reports related to the indirect talks between Israel and Hamas mediated by Qatar and Doha and facilitated by the United States. In recent weeks, all parties have stepped up efforts to conclude a deal between Israel and Hamas for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages held by Hamas before January 20, the date US President-elect Donald Trump assumes office. Advertisement Barnea travels to Qatar amid reports of progress The Times of Israel reported an Israeli official as saying that Mossad chief Barnea is expected to travel to Qatari capital Doha on Monday. Barnea, the head of external Israeli intelligence agency Mossad, has been the lead negotiator of Israel in indirect talks with Hamas. Barneas reported visit to Doha comes as multiple accounts of progress in Israel-Hamas talks have surfaced in the media. The Qatari outlet Al-Araby Al-Jadeed reported a Palestinian source described the progress on Sunday as decisive and the two sides were able to bridge remaining gaps between them. An Israeli official, however, rejected the report to ToI and dubbed it as nonsense. Instead, the official told the newspaper that there has been slow progress. Separately, Israels Kan broadcaster reported three sources as saying that the Qatari outlets report was not accurate and that while there had been some progress over the weekend, there was no breakthrough. Netanyahu met top ministers Amid such reports of progress, The Times of Israel reported that Netanyahu had called a meeting of senior ministers on Sunday. It was not known what came out of that meeting or what was discussed in it. Separately, Reuters reported a Hamas official as saying that the terrorist group has approved a list of 34 hostages presented by Israel. However, the official said that the release of hostages was conditional on the withdrawal of Israel from Gaza and a permanent ceasefire. Advertisement After the report appeared, the Israeli Prime Ministers Office (PMO) clarified that no such list has been provided by Hamas. Media organisations have clarified that Hamas appears to have approved the list for the release of hostages in case of a ceasefire instead of handing over the list of 34 hostages to Israel. Around the same time, there has been a report that Israel has compromised on a key demand. Instead of removal of Hamas as the ruler of Gaza, Israel has shown a willingness to allow Hamas to continue to govern Gaza on the condition that it disarms and does not rearm in the future, according to i24 news channel. Advertisement The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) of Bangladesh has issued an arrest warrant against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and 10 others, including her Defence Adviser Major General (Retired) Tarique Ahmed Siddique and former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed read more Bangladeshs International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has issued arrest warrants against ousted premier Sheikh Hasina and 10 others. Following Hasinas ouster in August 2024 after the military sided with her political opponents, the new regime of Mohammed Yunus propped by the military and anti-Hasina groups has mounted a systematic crackdown on her Bangladesh Awami League (BAL) party. For her safety, she fled to India in August 2024 and has been living in Delhi since. Advertisement The Daily Star on Monday (January 6) reported that ICT has issued arrest warrants against Hasina and 10 others, including her former Defence Adviser Major General (Retired) Tarique Ahmed Siddique and former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed. The newspaper reported that the warrant has been purportedly issued in a case related to extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances. The ICT ordered the Bangladeshi authorities to arrest Hasina and others and produce them in court by February 12, according to the newspaper. The ICTs order is symbolic as Hasina is staying in Delhi. Previously, the Yunus regime of Bangladesh had sought Hasinas extradition from India to Bangladesh. Blinken, on a trip that will also take him to Japan and France, will later join President Joe Biden as he pays a farewell visit to Rome that includes an audience with Pope Francis read more US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will meet his European counterparts Thursday in Rome on Syria, as the West looks to engage the new Islamist-led leadership. Blinken will meet with European counterparts to advocate for a peaceful, inclusive, Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political transition, a State Department statement said as he visited Seoul on Monday. The State Department did not immediately specify the participants. Blinken, on a trip that will also take him to Japan and France, will later join President Joe Biden as he pays a farewell visit to Rome that includes an audience with Pope Francis. Advertisement Islamist-led forces toppled longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad in a lightning offensive last month after 13 years of brutal war. Western powers have since been cautiously hoping for greater stability in Syria, a decade after the war triggered a major refugee crisis that shook up European politics. The French and German foreign ministers on Friday visited Syria, although the trip was overshadowed when new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa shook the hand only of Frances Jean-Noel Barrot, a man, and not Germanys Annalena Baerbock, a woman. Senior US diplomat Barbara Leaf met Sharaa last month and said that the United States was lifting a bounty that has been on its head. She also welcomed positive messages he has made, including on protection of minorities, and said he had promised that Syria would not pose a threat to neighbouring countries, as Israel pounds Syrian military sites. Indonesia, the worlds fourth most-populous nation, had previously expressed its desire to join the group as a means of strengthening emerging countries and furthering the interests of the so-called Global South. read more Brazils government said in a statement on Monday that Indonesia is formally joining BRICS as a full member, further expanding the group of major emerging economies that also includes Russia, India, China and South Africa. As the worlds fourth most populous nation, Indonesia had sought membership to strengthen the coalition of emerging nations and advance the interests of the Global South. Brazil set to preside over the bloc in 2025, confirmed that member states unanimously approved Indonesias entry, building on the expansion framework agreed upon at the 2023 Johannesburg summit. Advertisement The South American nation noted that Indonesias bid got the green light from the bloc in 2023 but the Asian country asked to join following the presidential election held last year. President Prabowo Subianto took office in October. Indonesia shares with the other members of the group support for the reform of global governance institutions, and contributes positively to the deepening of cooperation in the Global South, the Brazilian government said. The BRICS group also includes Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates. The alliance that initially included Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa has expanded to embrace Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Turkey, Azerbaijan and Malaysia have formally applied to become members, and several other countries have expressed interest in joining. The group now accounts for 45% of the worlds population and 35% of its economy, based on purchasing power parity, though China accounts for more than half of its economic might. With inputs from agencies. The upgraded Mirage 2000-5F is an advanced variant of Mirage 2000 and is set to elevate Ukraines air capabilities both in deep strike missions and strategic dominance read more (File) A French Air Force Mirage 2000-5F fighter aircraft that serves as part of NATO's enhanced Air Policing (eAP) to secure the skies over Baltic allies, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, at a military airbase in Amari, Estonia, March 18, 2022. Reuters Ukraines Air Force is about to get a major upgrade with the arrival of French Mirage 2000-5F fighter jets. This new addition is expected to significantly enhance Ukraines military strength. Ukrainian media including The New Voice of Ukraine, reports that the first three jets could arrive by January 20, 2025, though there is speculation that they might already be in Ukraine, possibly being used for training flights. In total, around 10 Mirage 2000-5F jets are expected to be delivered, boosting Ukraines air force at a crucial time as the conflict with Russia continues to intensify. Advertisement Strategic implications of the Mirage 2000-5F for Ukraine According to Avions Legendaires, the Mirage 2000-5F jets, which come from Frances Air and Space Force, have been extensively upgraded and will feature Ukrainian markings. These jets are part of military aid to Ukraine, which also includes French contributions like Caesar howitzers and AMX-10RC tanks. The deliveries are the result of months of negotiations between French President Emmanuel Macron and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The Mirage 2000-5F is an upgraded version of the original Mirage 2000. While they share the same airframe, the Mirage 2000-5F boasts advanced avionics, radar and weapon systems. It is equipped with a Thales RDM active radar, which offers better tracking and targeting capabilities than the older RDY radar used in the original Mirage 2000. This makes the Mirage 2000-5F more effective in complex combat situations improving its ability to survive and strike accurately, which is crucial for Ukraine as it faces Russias air dominance. The Mirage 2000-5F is also optimised to carry SCALP-EG and Storm Shadow cruise missiles giving Ukraine enhanced strike capabilities. These missiles allow deep strikes into enemy territory targeting high-value locations more effectively. As reported by Le Monde, Frances Air and Space Force has committed to training 26 Ukrainian pilots over the next two years. By December 25, 2024, Ukrainian pilots and ground crews completed six months of training on the Mirage 2000-5F in France. Indias Balakot strikes and lessons for Ukraine The addition of the Mirage 2000-5F to Ukraines fleet is significant, especially when considering past airstrike operations like Indias Balakot strikes in 2019. These strikes demonstrated the Mirage 2000s ability to carry out deep strike missions against enemy targets on foreign soil. Advertisement The Indian Air Force used the Mirage 2000 to target a terrorist training camp in Balakot, Pakistan in retaliation for the Pulwama attack, which resulted in the deaths of CRPF personnel. The Mirage 2000s legacy goes beyond its current use in Ukraine. Designed by Dassault Aviation and introduced to the IAF in the 1980s, the Mirage 2000 also played a key role in ensuring air dominance in the region. The aircraft was crucial during the Kargil War in 1999, where it used laser-guided bombs with unmatched accuracy against enemy targets. In 2011, the Indian government decided to upgrade its Mirage fleet. The upgraded versions, called Mirage 2000I and Mirage 2000TI, received advanced avionics, radar systems and electronic warfare tools. Advertisement The success of the Balakot strikes and the Kargil War before that highlighted the importance of fighter jets like the Mirage 2000 in executing targeted strikes. For Ukraine, the Mirage 2000-5F will offer similar strategic capabilities allowing its air force to strike Russian infrastructure deep within enemy territory. Just as India used the Balakot operation to send a message to Pakistan and the world about its determination, the delivery of Mirage jets to Ukraine sends a strong signal to Russia about Ukraines growing offensive strength. Challenges of logistical coordination and Western arms supplies While the Mirage 2000-5F offers a major upgrade to Ukraines air force, experts have pointed out several challenges in integrating such advanced equipment into the countrys military. Advertisement Zhang Junshe, a Chinese military expert, noted in the Global Times that although the Mirage 2000-5Fs advanced avionics and missile capabilities will improve Ukraines ground-attack abilities, its performance in air combat is still limited compared to other more advanced aircraft. The introduction of various weapon systems from different countries has significant logistical challenges. Ukraine now has to maintain a diverse fleet of aircraft and weapons, each requiring specific parts and expertise, making maintenance and operational efficiency more complicated. Political and economic realities Beyond the immediate military impact, Ukraines ability to continue its defence efforts is influenced by the broader geopolitical situation. Western countries, particularly in Europe, are growing increasingly tired of the prolonged conflict. Advertisement Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen told the Financial Times that there are rising concerns about the long-term viability of ongoing military support for Ukraine, as public opinion in several European countries is shifting. US President-elect Donald Trump has already expressed doubts about continued US aid to Ukraine, suggesting that the country should probably prepare for reduced assistance under a new administration. Frances commitment to providing Ukraine with advanced fighter jets shows its strategic role in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. By offering such sophisticated military aid, France is demonstrating its support for Ukraines sovereignty and strengthening its position as a key player in the broader European and Nato response to Russian aggression. However, the complex nature of the war, including logistical challenges and international political dynamics, shows the limits of even the most advanced military assistance. A mixed picture The delivery of the Mirage 2000-5F fighter jets to Ukraine marks an important step in strengthening Ukraines air defence and strike capabilities. However, this addition must be considered in the larger context of ongoing geopolitical tensions, logistical challenges and the complicated political situations in both Europe and the United States. While the Mirage 2000-5F will certainly improve Ukraines military strength, its success will depend on Ukraines ability to integrate this advanced technology into its forces and manage the complex dynamics of international support. As the situation continues to evolve, Ukraines future military strategy may rely not only on the advanced weaponry it receives but also on its ability to adapt to the constantly shifting battlefield while balancing the complicated network of international aid and political factors. Chinas Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) has also been swept by a wave of purges since 2023. Li Shangfu was removed as defence minister after seven months and his predecessor Wei Fenghe was expelled from the party for serious violations of discipline, a euphemism for corruption. read more Corruption is the biggest threat to Chinas Communist Party, President Xi Jinping said on Monday, in a clear warning that the ruling party is resolved to tackle a long-running problem that is now entrenched in many strata of Chinese society. China was rocked last year by corruption probes into high-profile individuals ranging from a deputy central bank governor to a former chairman of its biggest oil and gas company, adding to unease in an economy struggling to secure a firm footing and a society grappling with a fading sense of wealth. Advertisement The list also included a top Chinese admiral, Miao Hua, whose fall from grace comes at a time when Beijing is trying to modernise its armed forces and boost its battle readiness. Not only is corruption still pervading China, it is actually on the rise, Xi said at the start of a three-day congress of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI), the countrys top anti-graft watchdog. Corruption is the biggest threat to our party, he warned. To underline the scale of the problem, the CCDI said in recent days that a record 58 tigers, or senior officials, were probed last year. Of those investigated, 47 were at the vice-ministerial level or above, including Tang Renjian, former minister of agriculture and rural affairs, and Gou Zhongwen, former head of the General Administration of Sport. Even former high-ranking officials were not spared, such as Wang Yilin, who stepped down as chairman of state-owned China National Petroleum Corp in 2020 on reaching retirement age. The crackdown will continue, said Andrew Wedeman, a professor at Georgia State University. I dont see how Xi could afford to back off at this point, Wedeman said. A dozen years after he set out to cleanse the senior ranks, Xi is still finding widespread corruption at the top of the party-state and the PLA. Advertisement CHALLENGES Wedeman said it appeared that the pool that Xi is drawing on as replacements also included corrupt officials. If Xi is promoting corrupt officials, this suggests the partys internal vetting apparatus is not functioning effectively or, more seriously, is itself corrupted. China admits its anti-corruption efforts face new challenges, with traditional forms of corruption such as accepting cash becoming more insidious. A businessman might offer me money directly, and Id refuse, said Fan Yifei, a former deputy governor of the Peoples Bank of China sentenced to death with a two-year reprieve. But if he gives it in the form of stocks or other assets, not directly to me but to my family, thats a whole different matter, state media quoted Fan as saying. Advertisement Even the lowly flies and ants in Chinas vast bureaucracy will not be spared, a programme aired on Sunday by the national television broadcaster showed. The first of four episodes of Fighting Corruption for the People that ran ahead of the CCDI meeting focused on grassroots corruption, including a case of how a primary school director profited from kickbacks from on-campus meals and another on how a rural official took bribes from farm project contractors. Compared to the tigers far away, the public feels more strongly about the corruption around them, said Sun Laibin, a professor at Peking Universitys School of Marxism. The anti-corruption fight must reach the hearts of the masses, he said on the programme, so that they can deeply feel the care of the party. Advertisement In recent days, billionaire Elon Musk has stepped up his regime change operation for the United Kingdom and gone full-throttle after British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, weaponising the issue of grooming gangs to bolster the far-right against the Labour Partys government read more Continuing his campaign against the British government of Labour Party, billionaire Elon Musk has called for the imprisonment of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. In recent weeks, Musk, the worlds richest person, has turned his attention to the United Kingdom where he has unleashed his regime-change designs. Previously, he had vowed to oust Justin Trudeau in Canada and put his weight behind neo-Nazis of far-right AfD in Germany. He was also critical in the victory of Donald Trump in the 2020 US presidential election. Advertisement After supporting the far-right movement in the UK throughout 2024 and putting his weight behind anti-immigrant, far-right party Reform UK, Musk has now raked the issue of grooming gangs in the UK, which have been accused over the years of systematically grooming, abusing, and assaulting girls sexually. Often, such grooming gangs comprised Pakistan-origin men and British authorities have been criticised over the years for not acting tough on them over fears of appearing as racist or being accused of Islamophobia. While the issue is real, Musk has politicised it in recent weeks as the latest weapon to attack Starmer whose ouster he has sought repeatedly over the past year. Sharing a post alleging that three girls were kiIIed by a Muslim with a knife in England but for Keir Starmer the problem is Islamophobia, Musk said: Prison for Starmer. Prison for Starmer https://t.co/6RxIyGnYkG Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 6, 2025 Advertisement In another post, Musk said Starmer is complicit in the crimes. In another post, he said millions of rapes were committed. In another post, Musk yet again made his intention to topple the British government clear. He posted: Starmer must go. He is national embarrassment. Musk has resorted to falsehoods to drive his regime-change operation in the UK, claiming that a far-right, anti-Muslim activist, Tommy Robinson, was jailed for telling the truth about grooming gangs. Instead, he was jailed for contempt of court. He had previously been jailed for passport fraud, mortgage fraud, and assaulting a policeperson. He had also been held responsible for stalking a woman journalist. In 2011, he had issued public threats against Muslims. Id personally send every adult male Muslim that has come into the EU over the past 12 months back tomorrow if I could, said Robinson, according to NBC News. Advertisement Robinson is so extremist that even Nigel Farage, the leader of far-right Reform UK, has denounced him. After Farage denounced Robinson, Musk trained his guns at Farage, whom he had previously seen as an ally in his quest to topple Starmers government. The two had met last month and entered into talks for a donation, reportedly to the tune $100 million, to the Reform UK. After Farage rightly said that Robinson was in jail for contempt of court and added he was not welcome in his party, Musk said: The Reform Party needs a new leader. Farage doesnt have what it takes. Advertisement Musk raking up the grooming gangs issue is the latest chapter in his efforts to topple Starmers government and establish control over British polity. Last year, he had threatened the Starmer government with a civil war. In a statement that forced the British Prime Ministers Office (PMO) to respond, Musk said that a civil war is inevitable in the UK. The PMO said there was no justification for the comment. As Starmer last year cracked down on far-right, anti-immigrant riots, Musk dubbed the UK under Starmer as Soviet Union. In yet another statement of his intention to oust Starmer, he said in a post that the UK absolutely needs Farages Reform UK party at the helm. Advertisement HMPV causes flu-like symptoms including cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. In more severe cases, it can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia, especially in young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. read more Health experts have alleviated concerns about Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), clarifying that it is not as highly transmissible as Covid-19. They stressed that HMPV should not be equated with Covid-19, saying that the origins of Covid-19 were unknown until its emergence years back. In an interview with PTI, Surgical Oncologist Dr. Vishal Rao explained that HMPV spreads through droplets rather than verbal or airborne transmission, urging people not to panic. He highlighted that individuals who have received a flu shot and three doses of a Covid-19 vaccine likely have some immunity against HMPV, while also stressing the importance of basic precautions to prevent infection. Advertisement VIDEO | There is no vaccine available for this virus but if you have taken a flu shot, the three vaccine doses of COVID virus, you already have immunityThis is not something that will spread by me talking or breathing like COVID. This is not the case with HMPV virus because pic.twitter.com/XmDQP7Lc8V Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 6, 2025 There are currently no vaccines available for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). There is no vaccine for this virus, but if you have taken a flu shot and three doses of the Covid vaccine, you already have immunity This is not something that spreads through talking or breathing like Covid. HMPV is a droplet infection caused by coughing, so precautions are necessary, said Dr. Vishal Rao. Additional Professor for Internal Medicine at AIIMS Delhi, Dr Neeraj Nischal told ANI, " Lets not compare this (HMPV) with COVID-19 because that was a completely new virus, and none of us had immunity against it. HMPV has been described since 2001, and even based on evidence, it dates back to the late 1950s. By the age of 10, most children develop immunity against this." Advertisement #WATCH | Delhi | On the HMPV virus, Additional Professor for Internal Medicine at AIIMS Delhi, Dr Neeraj Nischal says, "... Let's not compare this (HMPV) with Covid-19 because that was a completely new virus and none of us had immunity against it... HMPV has been described since pic.twitter.com/8yMhMDAtEC ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025 India has reported three confirmed cases of HMPVtwo in Karnataka and one in Gujarat. However, health officials have emphasised that there is no need to panic, as the virus is not new, and regular flu shots or three Covid vaccine doses provide immunity against it. Dr Praveen Gupta, Principal Director & Chief of Neurology at Fortis Hospital said that the HMPV virus can travel to the brain, or it can trigger our immunity, which can cause inflammation in the brain, which is known as immune-mediated encephalitis. The inflammation of the brain leads to symptoms like fever, vomiting, decreased consciousness, seizures and weakness in the body, or paralysis. This can be a very serious disorder that is caused by an attack of abnormal immunity triggered by the virus on the brain cells. This can be diagnosed by doing an MRI of the brain. Sometimes, we need an EEG, and we can do a brain fluid examination called a CSF examination to evaluate the amount of inflammation in the brain. We need to treat it with medicines to reduce brain pressure, treat fever, treat seizures and immunomodulatory medicines which normalise the bodys immune reactions to prevent and heal the injury to the brain which can help people to get better, he said. Advertisement Experts said that HMPV spreads in ways similar to other respiratory viruses such as RSV and influenza. Transmission occurs primarily through respiratory droplets from infected individuals or contact with contaminated surfaces. To prevent the spread of HMPV, practising good hand hygiene is essential, including frequent handwashing with soap and water. Respiratory etiquette, such as covering the mouth and nose while sneezing or coughing and wearing a mask, can also limit the spread. Avoiding close contact with infected individuals and regularly disinfecting frequently touched surfaces are additional preventive measures. Dr Mahua Kapoor Dasgupta Director of Medical Affairs (Infectious Diseases), HaystackAnalytics said that HMPV belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family, alongside the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Advertisement It is known to cause upper and lower respiratory tract infections in all subjects with special predilection for the extremes of ages and the immunocompromised. It commonly manifests with flu-like symptoms including fever, cough, nasal congestion and shortness of breath. It may lead to severe bronchiolitis and pneumonia in susceptible hosts, she said. It commonly spreads from the infected host to healthy subjects by secretions from coughing and sneezing, close personal contacts such as touching or shaking hands, touching objects or surfaces that have the viruses on them then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes. The infection takes about 3-5 days to manifest after the virus enters the host and may exist for variable duration depending upon the severity, she said. Dr Dasgupta further said that treatment essentially includes home-based care with supportive management with rest, fluids, antipyretics, nasal decongestants and in cases of secondary bacterial superinfection, the administration of antibiotics. In the critically ill, hospital-based care may be warranted. Dr. Sandeep Budhiraja, Group Medical Director - Max Healthcare & Senior Director - Institute of Internal Medicine said During winters, often referred to as the flu season, numerous respiratory viruses circulate, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere. These viruses are categorized under respiratory or flu-like viruses. The most notable among them include the influenza virus (Influenza A and B), adenovirus, rhinovirus, COVID-19 virus, swine flu virus, and human metapneumovirus (HMPV). These viruses typically cause similar symptoms such as body aches, fever, headache, nasal congestion, nasal discharge, throat pain, and throat congestion. In most cases, these illnesses are restricted to the upper respiratory tract. However, in some individuals, the disease can progress to more severe conditions, affecting the lungs and leading to complications such as wheezing, bronchiolitis, or pneumonia, he said. For the majority of adults, infections caused by these viruses, including HMPV, result in mild upper respiratory symptoms. However, the impact can be severe for vulnerable groups, such as children under 5 years, elderly individuals, and people with underlying health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, liver or kidney disease (including those on dialysis), or cancer, he added. Dr Budhiraja further said that like other flu viruses, HMPV spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets, especially when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Unfortunately, despite over 20 years of familiarity with this virus, we still lack a specific vaccine or targeted treatment. The incubation period of HMPV is 3-6 days. This means that once exposed, an individual may develop symptoms within a few days and, in turn, can transmit the virus to others through sneezing or coughing. According to Dr Budhiraja, to prevent its spread, the same precautions as those for COVID-19 or any flu virus should be followed: *Wear a mask, especially if symptomatic. *Avoid crowded and congested areas. *Practice proper coughing and sneezing etiquette, such as using disposable tissues. *Refrain from shaking hands and wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use a sanitizer. *If symptoms appear, seek medical advice promptly and self-isolate for two to three days. *These measures are crucial to controlling the spread of HMPV and protecting vulnerable populations. French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday urged Ukraine to have a realistic position on territorial issues as part of efforts to bring about a negotiation with Russia, saying he saw no quick and easy solution to the conflict read more French President Emmanuel Macron delivers his speech to French ambassadors posted around the world at the Elysee Palace in Paris on Monday. Reuters French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday urged Ukraine to have a realistic position on territorial issues as part of efforts to bring about a negotiation with Russia, saying he saw no quick and easy solution to the conflict. As Russian invasion of Ukraine heads into a fourth year, Moscow is currently occupying about 20 per cent of the neighbouring countrys territory. The Ukrainians need to hold a realistic discussion on the territorial questions and only they can do that, and the Europeans are counting on building security guarantees that will be their responsibility, Reuters quoted Macron as saying while addressing the French ambassadors at an annual conference to outline the strategy for the year. Advertisement Macrons comments were the first time he had suggested that Kyiv should consider a position beyond seeking to regain all territory seized by Russia. Macron said the US role should be to convince Russia to come to the negotiation table while adding that no solution to the conflict could be agreed without the direct involvement of Ukraine and Europe. Macron reiterated that Ukraines allies needed to ensure that Kyiv has enough backing so that it can enter any negotiations from a position of strength. He made no specific new commitments to help Ukraine. There will not be a quick and easy solution, Macron said, referring to US President-elect Donald Trumps promise to end the war quickly. Moscow, which annexed Crimea in 2014, launched a full-blown invasion of Ukraine in Feb. 2022 and currently controls about a fifth of the country, including most of the eastern Donbas region. US President-elect Donald Trump has promised to bring a swift end to nearly three years of fighting, without offering any concrete proposals for a ceasefire or peace deal. Both sides are looking to secure a better position on the battlefield before Trumps January 20 inauguration. The new American president knows himself that the United States has no chance of winning anything if Ukraine loses, AFP quoted Macron as saying. Advertisement He also warned that the credibility of Western countries would be shattered if they agreed to compromise on Ukraine because of fatigue. A capitulation by Ukraine cannot be good for Europeans and Americans, the French president said. With inputs from agencies Sarkozy, 69, was Frances president from 2007 to 2012. He retired from active politics in 2017 read more France's former President Nicolas Sarkozy, along with 11 others, is accused of having received millions for his 2007 presidential campaign in illegal financing from the government of late Libyan leader Muammar Gadhafi. Reuters Frances former President Nicolas Sarkozy goes on trial Monday over allegations he received millions from Libya for his 2007 successful presidential campaign, in the latest and biggest of a series of legal cases involving him. This comes after his conviction in a corruption case was made definitive by Frances highest court last month. Sarkozy, 69, was Frances president from 2007 to 2012. He retired from active politics in 2017. The former president has denied any wrongdoing. Advertisement Heres a look at the legal proceedings. Alleged Libya financing Sarkozy, along with 11 others, is accused of having received millions for his 2007 presidential campaign in illegal financing from the government of late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi. Sarkozy has been under investigation in the case since 2013. He is charged with passive corruption, illegal campaign financing, embezzlement of Libyan public funds and criminal association. The trial is scheduled to run until April 10. Investigators examined claims that Gadhafis government secretly agreed to give Sarkozy up to 50 million euros ($51.6 million) for his 2007 campaign. The sum was more than double the legal campaign funding limit at the time, violating French rules. The investigation gained traction when French-Lebanese businessman Ziad Takieddine told news site Mediapart in 2016 that he had delivered suitcases from Libya containing 5 million euros (about $5.1 million) in cash to Sarkozy and his former chief of staff. Takieddine later withdrew the allegation and Sarkozy sought to have the inquiry closed. After becoming president in 2007, Sarkozy welcomed Gadhafi to France with high honors later that year. Sarkozy then put France at the forefront of NATO-led airstrikes that helped rebel fighters topple Gadhafis government in 2011. Accusations of witness tampering French investigative judges filed preliminary charges in 2023 against Sarkozy for his alleged involvement in an attempt to mislead magistrates in order to clear him in the Libya financing case. Advertisement Financial prosecutors said Sarkozy is suspected of benefitting from corruptly influencing a witness, in reference to Takieddine. Sarkozys wife, former supermodel Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, was given preliminary charges in July last year for alleged involvement in efforts to pressure Takieddine. Bruni-Sarkozy was placed under judicial supervision, which includes a ban on contact with all those involved in the proceedings except for her husband. Wiretapping scandal Frances Court of Cassation on Dec. 18 upheld an appeal court decision that had found Sarkozy guilty of corruption and influence peddling while he was the countrys head of state. Sarkozy has been sentenced to a year in prison but is entitled to be detained at home with an electronic bracelet as provided by French law. Advertisement He said he would bring the case to the European Court of Human Rights. Sarkozy was first found guilty in 2021 by a Paris court, a verdict confirmed in 2023 by an appeals court, for trying to bribe a magistrate in exchange for information about a legal case in which he was implicated. The case was revealed through wiretapped phone conversations during the Libya financing investigation. Convicted for illegal campaign financing In February last year, an appeals court in Paris upheld a guilty verdict against Sarkozy for illegal campaign financing in his failed 2012 re-election bid. He was sentenced to a year in prison, of which six months were suspended. Advertisement The former president is accused of having spent almost twice the maximum legal amount of 22.5 million euros on the re-election bid that he lost to Socialist Francois Hollande. Sarkozy has denied all allegations and appealed to the highest Court of Cassation in that case. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that security guarantees for Kyiv would only be effective if provided by the US and cautioned that a US withdrawal from Nato would lead to escalated aggression from the Kremlin towards Europe read more Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that security guarantees for Kyiv would only be effective if provided by the US and cautioned that a US withdrawal from Nato would lead to escalated aggression from the Kremlin towards Europe. In an interview with American podcaster Lex Fridman published on Sunday, Zelenskyy - who expressed hope to meet US President-elect Donald Trump after his inauguration - said that it was up to the US to determine its future but if Washington under Trump exits the military alliance Nato, it would weaken the grouping and embolden Putin in Europe. Advertisement Im simply saying that if it does (quit the alliance), Putin will destroy Europe, Zelenskyy was quoted as saying. Zelenskyy said he needs to sit down with President-elect Trump to chart a course of action to halt the Kremlin. In February, it would be three years since Russia invaded Ukraine and the return of Donald Trump to the White House on January 20 has raised hopes for a ceasefire deal but Ukraine is cautioned that it might come at a heavy price. Recognising that European allies would struggle militarily to counter Russia, Zelenskyy said, Without the United States, security guarantees are not possible. These are the guarantees needed to prevent Russian aggression. In the podcast, Zelenskyy remarked that Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown no interest in genuine negotiations to end the conflict, insisting that the Kremlin must be pressured into agreeing to a truce. With inputs from agencies Israel has faced heavy international criticism over its war against Hamas in Gaza, with the International Criminal Court issuing arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former defense minister read more Palestinians mourn their relatives killed in the Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip, at Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah. AP Israel has helped a former soldier leave Brazil after legal action was initiated against him by a group accusing Israelis of war crimes in the Gaza Strip based in part on soldiers social media posts. Israels Foreign Ministry on Sunday said it had helped the former soldier safely leave Brazil on a commercial flight after what it described as anti-Israel elements sought an investigation last week. It warned Israelis against posting on social media about their military service. Advertisement The Hind Rajab Foundation, named for a 5-year-old Palestinian girl killed in Gaza, said Brazilian authorities had launched an investigation into the soldier after it filed a complaint based on video footage, geolocation data and photographs showing him taking part in the demolition of civilian homes. The foundation described the move as a pivotal step toward accountability for crimes committed in Gaza during nearly 15 months of war. There was no immediate comment from Brazilian authorities. Brazilian media reported Saturday that the investigation was ordered by an on-call federal judge in Brazils Federal District. The decision was issued on Dec. 30 but first reported over the weekend. Israel has faced heavy international criticism over its war against Hamas in Gaza, with the International Criminal Court issuing arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former defense minister. The International Court of Justice is separately investigating genocide allegations. The Brazil case raised the prospect that rank-and-file Israeli troops could also face prosecution while abroad. Israel rejects the international allegations, saying its forces in Gaza are acting in accordance with international law and that any violations are punished within its judicial systems. It blames Hamas for civilian deaths, saying the militant group conceals tunnels and other infrastructure in residential buildings, necessitating their demolition. Advertisement Throughout the war, Israeli soldiers have posted numerous videos from Gaza that appear to show them rummaging through homes and blowing up or burning residential buildings. In some, they chant racist slogans or boast about destroying the Palestinian territory. The war began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting around 250. Some 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, at least a third believed to be dead. Israels offensive has killed over 45,800 Palestinians in Gaza, according to local health officials. They say women and children make up over half the dead but do not distinguish between civilians and militants. Israel says it has killed over 17,000 militants, without providing evidence. Advertisement Israeli airstrikes on Sunday killed five people in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, four in the southern city of Khan Younis and three in Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza, according to health workers. Gazas Health Ministry said at least 88 people had been killed in the past 24 hours. Israels military in a statement said it struck a Hamas command center in Khan Younis and an Islamic Jihad militant in Deir al-Balah. The war has caused widespread destruction in Gaza and displaced around 90% of the population of 2.3 million people, with many forced to flee multiple times. Israeli forces kill Palestinian security member Advertisement In the Israeli-occupied West Bank, Israeli forces killed a member of the Palestinian security services, calling him a wanted militant. Israels paramilitary Border Police said Sunday they carried out an operation in Meithaloun village overnight to arrest Hassan Rabaiya. They said he was killed in a shootout while trying to escape. Israeli authorities released helmet-cam footage that showed police blowing up what they called an explosives lab in his home. The Palestinian security services identified Rabaiya as a first lieutenant in its Preventive Security force, saying he was killed while performing his national duty. Meithaloun is near the West Bank city of Jenin, an epicenter of Israeli-Palestinian violence. The Palestinian Authority has been waging a rare crackdown on militants in Jenin, angering many Palestinians. Advertisement Separately on Sunday, the Palestinian Health Ministry in the West Bank said a 17-year-old boy was killed by Israeli gunfire in the urban Askar refugee camp in Nablus. The military said individuals hurled explosives at soldiers operating in the area, who then opened fire and hit one of them. The internationally recognized Palestinian Authority exercises limited autonomy in parts of the West Bank and cooperates with Israel on security matters. But Israel has long accused it of inciting violence and turning a blind eye to militants, while Palestinian critics view it as a corrupt and ineffective body that aids the occupation. The West Bank has seen a surge of violence during the war in Gaza. Israel captured both Gaza and the West Bank, as well as east Jerusalem, in the 1967 Mideast war, and the Palestinians want all three territories for their future state. Frances President Emmanuel Macron said on Monday he was still waiting for Africas Sahel states to thank Paris for stopping them falling into the hands of militants and he dismissed suggestions his country had been forced out of the region read more Frances President Emmanuel Macron on Monday said that he is still awaiting thanks from the Sahel states for Pariss efforts in preventing them from succumbing to militant control. He also rejected claims that France had been forced out of the region. Addressing French ambassadors at the annual foreign policy conference for 2025, Macron affirmed that France made the right decision to intervene in 2013 to combat Islamist militants, despite the fact that those countries have since distanced themselves from French military assistance. Advertisement I think that they forgot to thank us, but thats ok, it will come in time, Reuters quoted Macron as saying. French troops have in recent years pulled out of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso after successive military coups and are in the process of withdrawing from Chad, Senegal and Ivory Coast. None of them would have a sovereign state if the French army had not deployed in this region, Macron added. Macron dismissed the notion that Paris had been kicked out of the region, saying it had decided to re-organise its strategy. No, France is not on the back foot in Africa, it is just lucid and reorganising itself, he said. With inputs from agencies Helicopters are a key means of transport and crucial for emergency rescue in many of Nepals remote regions, often inaccessible by road. But they have also been increasingly used to airlift mountaineering teams and tourists over the challenging terrains in the Sagarmatha National Park, home to Mount Everest. read more Nepals airlines have suspended helicopter services to the Everest region following threats to landing sites by locals upset over environmental damage and loss of income from trekkers, aviation officials said on Monday. Helicopters, essential for transport and rescue in Nepals remote areas, have increasingly been used to ferry mountaineering teams and tourists across Sagarmatha National Park, home to Mount Everest. Offering a $1,000 shortcut to the base camp, helicopters eliminate the traditional two-week trek, impacting jobs for Nepalis supporting hikers. Advertisement The Airlines Operators Association of Nepal grounded all flights to the region on Sunday, citing security concerns. It said local youths had erected barriers of flags at landing sites, and threatened action against pilots who land. We have suspended all our helicopter flights to the Everest region until the government gives assurance of security for helicopter pilots and a separate spot for emergency landing, Pratap Jung Pandey, first-vice president of the association, told AFP. The suspension comes after escalating arguments between the aviation authorities, companies and local officials. Over 50,000 tourists visit the Everest region every year, mostly entering either in a plane or a helicopter. According to the association, the Everest region sees about 15 helicopter flights per day in the winter, a number that can surge to 60 daily during the peak tourist season. Sagarmatha National Park in December issued a notice banning commercial sight-seeing helicopter flights from January, sparking a conflict with aviation officials. Geologically, this a very sensitive area and the rampant helicopter flights are disturbing the environment, the parks conservation officer Sushma Rana told AFP in December, after the ban was announced. The local businesses are also losing out because the trekkers are whisked away by flights. Advertisement Local officials said the suspension was announced while negotiations had been ongoing. We are going to hold talks to resolve this issue, said Laxman Adhikari, a local ward official. With inputs from agencies. Musk stirred a storm on Sunday after he wrote on his social media platform X that Farage doesnt have what it takes to lead a growing party read more UKs Reform Party leader Nigel Farage has hit back at Tesla CEO Elon Musk after the billionaire said that his party needs a new leader. Musk stirred a storm on Sunday after he wrote on his social media platform X that Farage doesnt have what it takes to lead a growing party. The remarks left many shocked since the billionaire has been an ardent supporter of both Reform UK and its party leader. Advertisement It is important to note that the remarks from the SpaceX CEO came after Farage distanced himself from Musk when the entrepreneur expressed support for jailed far-right activist Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. Well, this is a surprise! Elon is a remarkable individual but on this I am afraid I disagree. My view remains that Tommy Robinson is not right for Reform and I never sell out my principles. https://t.co/V7iccN6usS Nigel Farage MP (@Nigel_Farage) January 5, 2025 Soon after Musks remarks, Farage responded to his post, admitting that even he was surprised by Musks latest stance. Well, this is a surprise! Elon is a remarkable individual but on this, I am afraid I disagree, Farage wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. My view remains that Tommy Robinson is not right for Reform and I never sell out my principles, he added. Advertisement Farage & Musk: Friends or foes? Tommy Robinson was jailed in October last year after he admitted contempt of court by frequently repeating false claims about Syrian refugees. In December, Farage said that he is in talks with Musk and the billionaire might possibly donate as much as $100 million to his party. Reform UKs Treasurer Nick Candy later paid a visit to US President Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida where he met Musk. While Farage and Musk did not agree on the Tony Robinson issue, the Reform UK leader defended Musk after the billionaire attacked the UK governments response to grooming gangs on X. In a series of posts, Musk suggested that Sir Keir Starmer failed to prosecute gangs and insisted that Home Office minister Jess Phillips deserves to be in prison. Advertisement The remarks came after the UK home office rejected to lead a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham following the Conservatives and the Reform UKs calls for a national inquiry into the matter. The UK PM Keir Starmers administration argued that the case should be first dealt with by the local government. When asked about Musks provocative statements in a BBC interview, Farage said he had used very tough terms but that free speech was back on X under his ownership. If it turns out that Kier Starmer did in effect not prosecute a case for fear of what it would do to community relations, for fear that it would provoke the charge of racism, if that is the case then he is open to be criticised and we all criticise in our ways, he added. Advertisement After Musks recent comment, several Reform party leaders rallied behind Farage. Mark Simpson, the partys regional organiser for Bexley, Bromley, Greenwich and Lewisham, said: We are fully behind you Nigel, we will keep going! Reform UK chairman Zia Yusuf and the partys deputy leader Richard Tice, both reposted Mr Farages reply. Nippon Steel and US Steel filed suit Monday over President Joe Bidens decision to block the Japanese giants proposed acquisition of its American rival, accusing his administration of illegal interference in the huge transaction read more Nippon Steel and US Steel filed suit Monday over President Joe Bidens decision to block the Japanese giants proposed acquisition of its American rival, accusing his administration of illegal interference in the huge transaction. The companies said in a statement that they initiated the legal action in the US court of appeals in Washington challenging the review process for the acquisition, claiming Biden, who is leaving office on January 20, had improperly used his influence and blocked the deal for purely political reasons. Advertisement The companies filed their lawsuits to remedy the ongoing illegal interference with Nippon Steels acquisition of US Steel, they said, adding that the litigation intends to show that President Biden ignored the rule of law to gain favor with (workers unions) and support his political agenda. Biden had criticized the $14.9 billion deal for months, while holding off on a move that could hurt ties with Tokyo. But the outgoing president - who made the rebuilding of the US manufacturing base a major goal of his administration - announced Friday that he was blocking the acquisition, saying it threatened national security. The announcement drew sharp criticism from both companies and Tokyo. The companies said the body reviewing the deal, the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) failed to conduct a good faith, national security-focused regulatory review process. The steelmakers are asking the courts to order a new review of the proposed merger. On Monday Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba urged Washington to dispel concerns that Bidens block of the deal could impact future investments. The transaction was a prominent element of the 2024 presidential campaign, given US Steels ties to Pennsylvania, a politically critical battleground state and cradle of the American steel industry. Advertisement In an interview with Nikkei business daily, Nippon Steel vice chairman Takahiro Mori said his company will not back down after being treated unreasonably. We will fight tooth and nail. The CFIUS review process lacked integrity, he said, adding that the decision was left to the president (Biden) without any substantive consultation with the companies. North Korea fired a ballistic missile out to sea off its east coast, coinciding with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visit to Seoul during a period of political turmoil in South Korea read more A man walks past a TV broadcasting a news report on North Korea firing a ballistic missile out to sea off its east coast, in Seoul, South Korea, January 6, 2025. Source: Reuters. North Korea on Monday fired a ballistic missile toward the East Sea, South Koreas military said, referring to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan. Japans coast guard also said a projectile believed to be a North Korea-fired missile had fallen. The launch of ballistic missile by North Korea coincided with a visit by outgoing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Seoul for talks with some of the key ministers amid the political turmoil in South Korea. Advertisement The firing of missiles by North Korea also comes barely two weeks before the inauguration of US President Donald Trump on January 20. North Korea sent unknown ballistic missile towards East Sea, a report by AFP quoted South Koreas military as saying. As per a report by Associated Press, the Joint Chief of Staff of the South Korean military did not confirm exactly how many missiles were fired by North Korea or how far they flew. Mondays launch was Pyongyangs first this year and comes after its last on November 5 when it test-fired what it said was its most advanced and powerful solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). That was North Korean leader Kim Jong Uns first weapons test since being accused of sending troops to Russia to help it fight Ukraine. Meanwhile, Blinken who is in Seoul, met with South Korean Acting President Choi Sang-mok on Monday and emphasised US unwavering defence commitment to the country. As per an official readout, Blinken also called for close diplomatic and security communication to deter against possible North Korea provocations. South Koreas Acting President Choi Sang-mok (right) and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (left) attend a meeting in Seoul, South Korea, Monday, January 6, 2025. Source: Reuters. Choi is standing in for impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol whose declaration of martial law on December 3 stunned South Korea and led to his suspension from duties on December 14. Advertisement With inputs from agencies. Last month, Pakistan conducted airstrikes inside Afghanistan in which at least 46 people were killed, most of them women and children, according to the Afghan Taliban read more The photograph shows Afghans said to have been injured in a Pakistani airstrike last month. (Photo: AFP) India has condemned Pakistans airstrikes inside Afghanistan. In a statement on Monday (January 6), Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India has taken note of Pakistans airstrikes on Afghan civilians in which many people were killed. Jaiswal said India unequivocally condemned such an attack on civilians. We have noted the media reports on airstrikes on Afghan civilians including women and children, in which several precious lives have been lost. We unequivocally condemn any attack on innocent civilians, said Jaiswal. Advertisement Last month, Pakistan conducted airstrikes inside Afghanistan which it said targeted the hideouts of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which it considers a terrorist organisation. While Pakistani officials told media that several senior TTP leaders were killed in the airstrikes, the Afghan Taliban that controls Afghanistan the Afghan Taliban and TTP are separate entities said the attacks caused several civilian casualties. Pakistan holds the TTP responsible for a deadly insurgency in the countrys northwest and a wave of attacks across the country. The relations with the Afghan Taliban have also soured as the TTP has found a safe haven in Afghanistan. The latest round of Pakistani airstrikes came days after Pakistan said 16 soldiers were killed in an attack by TTP along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. Referring to Pakistans pretext for attacks inside Afghanistan, Jaiswal said, It is an old practice of Pakistan to blame its neighbours for its own internal failures. Our response to media queries regarding airstrikes on Afghan civilians:https://t.co/59QC0N6mOY pic.twitter.com/UsrkFGJVBZ Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) January 6, 2025 Advertisement The TTP has bases inside Afghanistan and its personnel often cross into Pakistan to conduct operations and return to Afghanistan after completing their operations. In the airstrikes on Dec. 24, at least 46 people were killed, most of them women and children, the Afghan Taliban told Reuters. Since the Taliban took over Afghanistan in 2021, it was the third round of Pakistani airstrikes inside Afghanistan. Even as the Afghan Taliban vowed to retaliate, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif remained unapologetic. This is a red line for us: If the T.T.P. operates from there, it is not acceptable for us. We will defend Pakistans sovereignty at every cost, said Shehbaz. Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili said he was deeply troubled by images that appeared to depict horrific acts of cannibalism read more Papua New Guineas police minister has condemned horrific claims of cannibalism swirling on social media, vowing such barbarity would not define the Pacific nation. A group of machete-wielding men dangle what looks like a severed human foot in grisly photos published Monday on the front page of Papua New Guineas largest newspaper. Although the men are not filmed eating the body part, one of them appears to make a licking gesture while holding it up for the camera. Advertisement Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili said he was deeply troubled by images that appeared to depict horrific acts of cannibalism. A violent confrontation between two brothers escalated, leading to a heartbreaking outcome, he told AFP. The conflict saw villagers taking sides, ultimately resulting in the gruesome killing of the elder brother by the younger sibling. Tsiamalili said in a separate statement dated Sunday such barbarity does not define us as a people or a nation. These barbaric actions by a group of youths not only shock our collective conscience but also pose a grave threat to the societal values that bind us as a nation, he said. Such acts of inhumanity are intolerable and represent a significant challenge to our shared humanity. Police traced the images to the Goilala district in the countrys jungle-clad interior. The killing took place a month ago in Saki Village, Tsiamalili said, although the video had only recently gained traction online. Papua New Guinea has long been tarred by outdated tropes that paint its people as savages. Historically, cannibalism has been documented among a small number of tribes in remote parts of Papua New Guinea. Advertisement United States President Joe Biden last year quipped that his fighter pilot uncle may have been eaten by cannibals after he was shot down during World War II. He got shot down in New Guinea, and they never found the body because there used to be a lot of cannibals, for real, in that part of New Guinea, Biden said. Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape later dismissed the gaffe as loose talk on the part of the president. Ive met him on four occasions, until today, and on every occasion hes always had warm regards for Papua New Guinea, Marape said. Never in those moments (has) he spoke of PNG as cannibals, he added. Advertisement Austrias President Alexander Van der Bellen has tasked far-right leader Herbert Kickl to form the government, bringing the Freedom Party chief closer to the chancellorship, according to a report read more Austrias President Alexander Van der Bellen has tasked far-right leader Herbert Kickl to form the government, bringing the Freedom Party chief closer to the chancellorship, according to a Bloomberg report. I have not taken this step lightly, Bloomberg quoted Van der Bellen as saying to reporters on Monday. I will continue to ensure that the principles and rules of our constitution will be upheld, he added. According to the report, despite their earlier commitment not to collaborate with Kickl, members of the conservative Peoples Party changed their stance on Sunday after Chancellor Karl Nehammer resigned following his inability to form a centrist coalition. Advertisement The 56-year-old Kickl met with Van der Bellen in Vienna on Monday to discuss the formation of a government, while approximately 500 people gathered nearby to protest, added the report. If Kickl assumes power, it would be the first time a far-right party has led Austria since World War II, contributing to a rising wave of nationalism across Europe, reported Bloomberg. With two weeks until Donald Trump takes office, Germany is preparing for February elections where the far-right is expected to gain ground, while France faces electoral gridlock after a leftist alliance and Marine Le Pens far-right National Rally outperformed others last June. The Freedom Partys campaign has focused on pro-Russian, anti-immigrant, and climate-skeptic positions. Kickl, a polarising figure in Austrias population of about nine million, is one of the countrys least-liked politicians yet has led his party close to power. He staunchly opposed a vaccine mandate during the pandemic and supported far-right activists advocating for mass deportations. He has pledged to collaborate with Hungarys controversial Prime Minister Viktor Orban. For decades, the Peoples Party sought to keep the Freedom Party at a distance by forming coalitions with rival parties or including it only as a junior partner to maintain control. However, that strategy began to falter after the September elections, where the Freedom Party increased its seats from 26 in 2019 to 57, boosting its vote share by nearly 13 points. In contrast, the Peoples Party dropped to 51 seats, losing 20. Advertisement While Austrias other parties attempted to unite to keep the Freedom Party out of government a tactic dubbed a Kickl prevention strategy by its leaderNehammers resignation on Saturday changed the landscape. After failing to secure a coalition with the Social Democrats and liberal NEOS, Nehammers interim successor, Peoples Party secretary Christian Stocker, quickly expressed readiness to negotiate with the Freedom Party. This shift reflects the Peoples Partys declining public support and Nehammers inability to attract voters since taking over from former political star Sebastian Kurz in 2021. Moreover, influential provincial leaders and a faction of industrialists within the Peoples Party had been advocating for a partnership with the far right. Advertisement Since yesterday, the situation looks different, Bloomberg quoted Stocker, until recently a sharp critic of the Freedom Party, as saying on Sunday. This country needs a stable government right now and we cannot keep losing time in election campaigns, added Stocker. Marcus How, a geopolitical risk analyst at VE Insight in Vienna, told Bloomberg that the likelihood of a Freedom Party-Peoples Party coalition has risen considerably, though it is not guaranteed. Kickl holds most of the cards, and can therefore afford to be maximalist in his negotiating stance," How was quoted as saying. If the negotiations fail, he can simply lean back and fight an election which the polls indicate would bring further landslide gains for the Freedom Party, he added. Advertisement Unlike younger far-right groups in Europe, the Freedom Party has been active in Austria for decades. Kickl has previously referred to Van der Bellen, 80, as a senile mummy. During his tenure as interior minister, some foreign intelligence agencies were wary enough of him to halt the sharing of sensitive information with Austria. To become chancellor, Kickl will need to align his political views with conservatives, who maintain significant influence in Austrias economy and society, reported Bloomberg. Austrias new leaders also face serious challenges for the nations industrial sector due to years of high wage growth and rising energy prices, which have impacted competitiveness. After two years of economic contraction, Austria must also implement billions in budget consolidation measures to avoid penalties from the European Union. Advertisement In a statement on Sunday, Kickl said he would focus on affordable living, justice, security, freedom, and peace. We bear no responsibility for wasted time, chaotic conditions and the enormous erosion of trust," Kickl stated on Facebook. Clearly, the Freedom Party has been and is the only stable point in Austrian politics." With inputs from agencies The mainly Muslim Rohingya, who are originally from Myanmar and constitute the worlds largest stateless population, often escape poor conditions in refugee camps on rickety boats to Thailand or Muslim-majority Indonesia and Malaysia between October and April, when the seas are calmer read more More than 200 Rohingya came ashore over the weekend in Indonesias Aceh province, an official said on Monday, amid growing numbers of arrivals by sea of the stateless population in the Southeast Asian country. The mainly Muslim Rohingya, who are originally from Myanmar and constitute the worlds largest stateless population, often escape poor conditions in refugee camps on rickety boats to Thailand or Muslim-majority Indonesia and Malaysia between October and April, when the seas are calmer. Advertisement More than 200 Rohingya arrived on Sunday evening in the West Peureulak region of East Aceh on Sumatra island, on the western side of Indonesia, said Miftach Tjut Adek, chief of Acehs fishing community. Faisal Rahman, an official at the United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, said the agency is coordinating with local authorities and its team is headed to West Peureulak on Monday. Between October and November last year, more than 500 Rohingya arrived in Indonesia by boat. Almost 1 million Rohingya live in camps in Bangladesh in what U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi has called the biggest humanitarian refugee camp in the world. In Buddhist-majority Myanmar they are regarded as foreign interlopers from South Asia, and are denied citizenship and abused. More than 2,000 Rohingya arrived in Indonesia in 2023, UNHCR data showed, more than the combined total of arrivals in the previous four years. China regards Taiwan as part of its territory and for years has been ramping up military, diplomatic and political pressure on the island to accept its claims of sovereignty read more Chinese hackers were involved in most of the cyberattacks against Taiwan last year, which doubled to a daily average of 2.4 million, Taiwanese security officials said. China regards Taiwan as part of its territory and for years has been ramping up military, diplomatic and political pressure on the island to accept its claims of sovereignty. Taiwan says cyberattacks have also increased as Beijing uses a range of greyzone methods to harass the island tactics that fall short of an act of war. Advertisement Most of the daily attacks received by Taiwans Government Service Network were attributed to Chinas cyber force, the National Security Bureau said in a report on Sunday. Defence, telecommunications and transport were among the top targets, with many of the cyberattacks effectively detected and blocked, it said. The growing numbers of attacks pinpoint the increasingly severe nature of Chinas hacking activities, the report said. Its techniques have become increasingly sophisticated and covered a wide range of targets, such as government agencies, critical infrastructure and high-tech manufacturing industry. Chinese hackers carried out Distributed Denial of Service attacks on Taiwans transport and financial sectors when Beijing held military drills near the island, intending to intensify the harassment effect and military intimidation, the bureau said. Several countries, notably the United States, have voiced alarm in recent years at what they say is hacking activity backed by Beijing targeting their governments, militaries and businesses. China has denied the allegations, previously insisting it opposes and cracks down on all forms of cyberattacks. Beijing last week rejected accusations that a China state-sponsored actor was behind a cyber breach at the US Treasury Department, calling the claims groundless. Advertisement Biden has consistently portrayed Trump as a threat to democracy, and he has pointed to Trumps failure to accept defeat in the 2020 election as proof read more President Joe Biden implored Americans in an op-ed published on Sunday not to forget the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, writing that the country has a collective obligation to remember the events of that day. The article, published in The Washington Post, comes a day before the U.S. Congress will meet to formally certify Republican Donald Trumps election as president and nearly four years after a mob of his supporters stormed the Capitol in a failed bid to block the certification of his 2020 election loss. Advertisement We must remember the wisdom of the adage that any nation that forgets its past is doomed to repeat it, Biden wrote. We cannot accept a repeat of what occurred four years ago. He added that the election certification process would be peaceful this time around. Biden has consistently portrayed Trump as a threat to democracy, and he has pointed to Trumps failure to accept defeat in the 2020 election as proof. The president made defense of democracy a central element of his re-election campaign, which he abandoned in July after mounting concerns about his age. Kamala Harris, who replaced Biden atop the Democratic ticket, portrayed Trump in similar terms. Trump was federally indicted for his efforts to overturn the 2020 election, which he lost, but the case moved slowly and was nowhere near resolution by the time he won the 2024 election in November. Trump, who will start a second non-consecutive term in two weeks, does not acknowledge his 2020 election loss as legitimate, and he and his allies have peddled false theories about the events of Jan. 6, 2021. He has promised to issue widespread pardons of people convicted of crimes related to the Jan. 6 attack. Many of the convictions related to assaulting law enforcement officers, among other felonies. Advertisement An unrelenting effort has been underway to rewrite - even erase - the history of that day. To tell us we didnt see what we all saw with our own eyes, Biden wrote in the Washington Post. In time, there will be Americans who didnt witness the Jan. 6 riot firsthand but will learn about it from footage and testimony of that day, from what is written in history books and from the truth we pass on to our children. We cannot allow the truth to be lost. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday announced his intention to resign as leader of the ruling Liberal Party after nine years in office, though he will remain in his position until a successor is chosen, according to a report read more Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announces his resignation as Liberal leader and prime minister outside Rideau Cottage in Ottawa on Monday. AP Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday announced his resignation after nine years in office, though he will remain in his position until a successor is chosen. Addressing a news conference on Monday, Trudeau said that parliament would be suspended until March. I intend to resign as party leader as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide competitive process, The Guardian quoted Trudeau as saying. He said he has asked the president of the Liberal Party to begin that process last night. Advertisement Trudeau said the new prime minister and leader of the Liberals will carry the values and ideas of the party in the next elections. He said he is looking forward to that process. Asked why he decided to make the announcement today, he said he is not someone who backs down very easily in a fight" but that he has always been driven by my love for Canada. This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if Im having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election, he was quoted as saying. That means Trudeau will still be prime minister on January 20 when US President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Trump has threatened to impose tariffs that would cripple Canadas economy. Trudeau said he has one particular regret going into the next election, which is that he could have changed the way Canadians elect governments with the option of a second or third choice on the ballot. Doing so would have meant that parties would have spent more time trying to be peoples second or third choices, he said. Advertisement People would have been looking for things they have in common, instead of trying to polarise and divide Canadians against each other, The Guardian quoted him as saying. Asked why he is not calling an election, Trudeau said parliament has been seized by obstruction, filibustering and a total lack of productivity for the past several months. Its time for a reset, he said. Its time for the temperature to come down, for the people to have a fresh start in parliament, to be able to navigate through these complex times, he added. He said the reset comes in two parts the first is the prorogation of parliament, the other is recognising that removing him as the Liberal leader should decrease the level of polarisation in the House and in Canadian politics. Advertisement Talking about Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, Trudeau said he is not the right vision for Canadians. We need an ambitious, optimistic view of the future, and Pierre Poilievre is not offering that, he was quoted as saying. Trudeau, 53, took office in November 2015 and won reelection twice, becoming one of Canadas longest-serving prime ministers. But his popularity started dipping two years ago amid public anger over high prices and a housing shortage, and his fortunes never recovered. Polls show the Liberals will badly lose to the official opposition Conservatives in an election that must be held by late October, regardless of who the leader is. Advertisement Parliament was due to resume on January 27 and opposition parties had vowed to bring down the government as soon as they could, most likely at the end of March. But if Parliament does not return until March 24, the earliest they could present a non-confidence motion would be some time in May. With inputs from agencies Ukraine launched a massive counterattack in Russias southern region border of Kursk, warning that Moscow is getting what it deserves. Andrii Kovalenko, the head of the Ukrainian Center for Countering Disinformation, an official body, said the Ukrainian forces launched a surprise attack against Russia in several locations across Kursk. The attack came months after the war-stricken nation launched an incursion in the border region. Kursk region, good news, Russia is getting what it deserves, said the head of the Ukrainian Presidential Office, Andriy Yermak, in a post on Telegram on Sunday. Advertisement In August this year, Ukraine managed to gain a significant chunk of land in Kursk, causing a major dent in Russias military operation. Not only this, Kyiv also countered the North Korean troops deployed in the area after Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un signed a defence pact. Russia reacts to recent attacks On Sunday, the Russian Defence Ministry said that Ukraine has launched counterattacks to stop Russian offences. According to Russian news outlet TASS, the ministry said that the attacks were repelled by its forces. While giving an update on the matter, the Russian authorities noted that the Ukrainian assault included two tanks and 12 armoured vehicles had been defeated near the village of Berdin, some 15 kilometres (9 miles) from the border. The ministry mentioned that air power had been used against Ukrainian forces in several areas. Meanwhile, a blog associated with Russias Northern Group of forces said that its units were moving forward, adding that there were active hostilities in Sudzha district, the enemy is acting in mobile groups on armoured vehicles, our aviation and artillery are working, small arms battles are going on. It is pertinent to note that the Kursk invasion was significant since this was the first ground invasion of Russian territory by foreign forces since World War II. The invasion left both Russia and the West by surprise since Kyivs troops advanced quickly, though Russia eventually began to push their forces back. Russia witnesses losses in New Year On Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr said that in battles near the village of Makhnovka, the Russian army lost up to a battalion of North Korean soldiers and Russian paratroopers. A battalion usually refers to several hundreds of troops. Russia on the other hand, reported advances in Eastern Ukraine, near the town of Kurakhove, a critical area of the battlefield in the Donetsk region. The unofficial Ukrainian monitoring group DeepState stated that the Russian forces had advanced in Kurakhove and Toretsk, and published a video of a column of Russian vehicles entering the village of Yelyzavetivka before coming under heavy fire. Advertisement However, Kursk continues to remain a major concern for Russia. During his year-end news conference last month, Putin declined to say exactly when the Kremlin forces would be able to recapture the Kursk region. Our guys are fighting, there is a battle going on right now, and serious battles. It is unclear why, there was no military sense in the Ukrainian Armed Forces entering the Kursk region, or holding on there now as they are doing, throwing their best units there to be slaughtered, Putin said. With inputs from agencies. Blinken said that the outgoing administration of President Joe Biden, which has given Kyiv billions of dollars in security assistance since Russias February 2022 invasion, wants to ensure that Ukraine has the strongest possible hand to play read more US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Monday that Ukraines position in Russias Kursk was critical to any future negotiations, as Moscow said Kyiv launched a counterattack in the border region. Blinken said that the outgoing administration of President Joe Biden, which has given Kyiv billions of dollars in security assistance since Russias February 2022 invasion, wants to ensure that Ukraine has the strongest possible hand to play. Their position in Kursk is an important one because certainly its something that would factor in any negotiation that may come about in the coming year, Blinken told reporters in Seoul. Advertisement US officials have said that they do not expect major shifts in the battle lines in eastern Ukraine, whose leadership last year instead launched a surprise offensive on Kursk. President-elect Donald Trump has described US assistance to Ukraine as wasteful and boasted of quickly ending the war, with his aides suggesting leveraging US assistance to force territorial concessions to Russia. Blinken said that even if negotiations take place, Ukraine would still need adequate security assurances against Russian President Vladimir Putin. There is going to be, at some point, a ceasefire. Its not going to be in Putins mind game over, Blinken said. His imperial ambitions remain, and what he will seek to do is to rest, refit, and eventually re-attack, Blinken said, calling for an adequate deterrent in place so that he doesnt do that. He did not comment directly on the operations in Kursk, where pro-Russian military bloggers reported a powerful new Ukrainian offensive. The Russian defence ministry said Sunday that Ukraine had launched a counterattack in Kursk, where Kyivs forces began a shock ground offensive last August. Just weeks before leaving the White House, US President Joe Biden signed a historic Bill which will boost social security payments to public service employees. This is touted as the first such expansion in 20 years read more Just weeks before leaving the White House, US President Joe Biden signed into law a measure which intends to boost social security payments for current and former public employees. The White House called it the first expansion of such benefits in 20 years and said that the law would bring relief to teachers, firefighters, police officers and other public service workers in the country. The bill Im signing today is about a simple proposition: Americans who have worked hard all their lives should be able to retire with economic security and dignity, Biden said before signing the legislation. Thats the entire purpose of the social security system crafted by Franklin Delano Roosevelt nearly 90 years ago," he added. Advertisement Last month, the US Senate voted to approve the Social Security Fairness Act, which many claim would help in reducing decades-old disparity. However, some of the critics of the bill said that the provision would put a significant strain on Social Security trust funds, which are currently facing a looming insolvency crisis. About the bill The legislation rescinds two provisions. They are the windfall elimination provision and the government pension offset which limit social security benefits for recipients if they get retirement payments from other sources. In December 2023, the Congressional Research Service estimated that 745,679 people had their benefits reduced by government pension offset. Meanwhile, about 2.1 million people, or about 3 per cent of all beneficiaries, were affected by the windfall elimination provision. In September, the Congressional Budget Office estimated that removing the windfall elimination provision would boost monthly payments to the affected beneficiaries by an average of $360 by December 2025. Eliminating the government pension offset on the other hand would increase monthly benefits in December 2025 by an average of $700 for 380,000 recipients getting benefits based on living spouses, according to the CBO. Hence, there would be an average increase of $1,190 for 390,000 or surviving spouses getting a widow or widower benefit. These amounts are expected to be increased over time with social securitys frequent cost of living adjustments. The move is being lauded by people in the public service. We are excited to see the change weve righted a 40-year wrong. The policy was far more egregious for surviving spouses of firefighters who paid their own quotas into social security but were victimized by the government pension system," said Edward Kelly, President of the International Association of Fire Fighters. Advertisement Now firefighters who get paid very little can now afford to actually retire, he added. It is pertinent to note that the changes were proposed by Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown for hears. However, he lost his re-election bid in this years November poll. Despite not being in the scene, his contribution was not forgotten. Lee Saunders, President of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees labour union, thanked Brown for his advocacy in the matter. Over two million public service workers will finally be able to access the social security benefits they spent their careers paying into, Saunders said in a statement. Many will finally be able to enjoy retirement after a lifetime of service," he added. Advertisement With inputs from agencies. US President-elect Donald Trump will be inviting a select group of House Republicans at Mar-a-Lago ahead of his inauguration. Sources believe that Trump is conducting a meeting in an effort to bolster unity within the party read more US President-elect Donald Trump has invited a group of House Republicans to Mar-a-Lago ahead of his inauguration ceremony. According to the three sources involved in the planning, Trump and his team worked closely with the US Speaker of the House Mike Jonshon to finalise the members who would be invited, NBC News reported. As per the report, between January 10 and 12, members of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, lawmakers from states affected by the state and local tax (SALT) deduction cap, chairs of key committees and other groups of Republicans will visit Trump at his Florida estate. Advertisement The reports of the meeting came a day after a tense speaker vote on Friday in which Trumps favourite Mike Johnson managed to hold on to his seat despite facing several internal challenges. Not only this, Republicans are also preparing to take up one massive reconciliation package later this spring which will most likely extend Trumps 2017 tax laws. Trumps bid to unify GOP The sources told NBC News, that Trump is organising the event because he wants to make sure that Republicans across the different ideological spectrum, continue to remain unified and on the same page. Trump needs the GOP lawmakers united so that he can fulfil his legislative agendas when he returns to the White House. Meanwhile, a spokesperson from Trumps transition team did not immediately respond to the requests for comment about next weekends visits. However, the cracks within the party were evident during the Friday voting when members of the Freedom Caucus released a letter saying that they voted for Johnson because of our steadfast support of President Trump. We did this despite our sincere reservations regarding the Speakers track record over the past 15 months," the caucus furthered. Despite the difference, the GOP is more likely to have an easier time since the party holds a majority in both the House and the US Senate, with Trump at the helm of the executive branch. However, Republicans do have a fragile majority in the House. Hence, the party cannot afford to have several defectors. During the speaker vote, three GOP lawmakers Reps. Keith Self of Texas, Thomas Massie of Kentucky and Ralph Norman of South Carolina initially voted for someone other than Johnson for speaker. Self and Norman eventually changed their decision just minutes before they cast their first vote, saving Johnsons seat. Advertisement With inputs from agencies. As the FBI continued to investigate the deadly New Orleans vehicle attack, the authorities tracked down the places Shamsud-Din Jabbar travelled before the incident. The list includes the suspects trip to Egypt, Canada and two visits to New Orleans, just weeks before the attack read more Federal authorities investigating the devastating New Orleans vehicle attack that killed 14 people on New Years Day said that they are looking for potential associates of the suspect in the US and abroad. In a press briefing conducted by the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the officials noted that they are working on some of the leads they received from Houston, Atlanta and Tampa, Florida. Advertisement They said that Shamsud-Din Jabbar, who is the main suspect in the attacks, had visited New Orleans twice in the months before causing a rampage in the city. The authorities mentioned that on one of those trips, Jabbar rode a bicycle up Bourbon Street and was wearing Meta glasses. It has already been revealed that Jabbar was an Islamic State (IS) sympathiser since authorities found an ISIS flag in his pick-up truck which he used to plough down people. All investigative details and evidence we have now still support that Jabbar acted alone here in New Orleans. We have not seen any indications of an accomplice in the United States, but we are still looking into potential associates in the US and outside of our borders," FBIs deputy assistant director of counter-terrorism, Christopher Raia said at the briefing on Saturday. Places Jabbar visited before committing the crime While addressing the reporters, Raia revealed the itineraries of several trips the 42-year-old made before the New Orleans attack. In 2023, Jabbar travelled to Cairo from 22 June to 3 July. The FBI official said he flew to Canada on July 10 and returned to the United States three days later. Last year, he made at least two trips to New Orleans one in October and another in November. On October 30, when the city was in a Halloween mood, Jabbar stayed at a rented home in New Orleans and was in the city for at least two days during that time. Jabbar, using Meta glasses, recorded a video as he rode through the French Quarter on a bicycle, Raia said. Videos showed Jabbar during that trip in October with his Meta glasses. As we continue to learn more about that trip, we ask anyone who may have seen or interacted with him to contact us now for more information. Advertisement One video clip released by the FBI showed that Jabbar was riding up Bourbon during the daytime on an unspecified date. In the video, he was just a block away from where he was killed in a gunfight against the authorities on the day of the attack. Raia said Jabbars Meta glasses allowed him to take photos and live-stream hands-free during the night of the attacks. However, he maintained that the glasses were not activated for a live stream. Meanwhile, the US Army released information showing that Jabbar and Matthew Livelsberger a decorated special forces solider who died in an apparent suicide and vehicle bombing at a Trump hotel in Las Vegas - both served in the American military branch which was deployed in Afghanistan for about seven months in 2009. While Livelsberger was assigned to the 10th Special Forces group at that time, Jabbar was a human resource specialist. Jabbar and Livelsberger also served at the armys Fort Bragg in North Carolina for about 10 months in 2012, The Guardian reported. Advertisement Raia concluded the presser by stating that all available indications were that Jabbar fell into extremism after marital and financial woes. He served in the US Army for more than a decade and earned a Global War on Terrorism service medal. With inputs from agencies. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued winter storm warnings from Kansas and Missouri where blizzard conditions are expected to New Jersey read more US Highway 20 during a blizzard near Galva, Iowa, on 13 January 2024. AP A major winter storm was sweeping across the central US on Sunday, forecasters said, bringing with it a dreaded combination of snow, ice and plunging temperatures. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued winter storm warnings from Kansas and Missouri where blizzard conditions are expected to New Jersey. In the two states where blizzard warnings were in effect, travel could be very difficult to impossible, with snow whipped around by high winds reducing visibility, the NWS said. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches. Advertisement Do not travel unless necessary! the NWS said. The polar vortex of ultra-cold air usually stays penned up around the north pole, spinning like a top. But sometimes it escapes or stretches down to the US, Europe or Asia and thats when large numbers of people experience intense doses of cold. Studies show a fast-warming Arctic gets some of the blame for the increase in polar vortex stretching or wandering. By Saturday evening, widespread heavy snow was likely between central Kansas and Indiana, especially along and north of Interstate 70. Part of the interstate was closed in central Kansas by the afternoon. Total snow and sleet accumulations for parts of Kansas and northern Missouri were predicted to be as high as 14in (35.6cm ). The storm was forecast to move then into the Ohio Valley, with severe travel disruptions expected. It will reach the mid-Atlantic states on Sunday into Monday, with a hard freeze even expected as far south as Florida. Severe thunderstorms, with the possibility of tornadoes and hail, were also possible ahead of the storm systems cold front as it crosses the Lower Mississippi Valley, the National Weather Service warned. Parts of upstate New York saw 3ft (0.9 meters) or more of snow from a lake effect event expected to last until late Sunday afternoon. Advertisement A fire truck, several tractor-trailers and passenger vehicles overturned west of Salina, Kansas. Rigs also jackknifed and went into ditches, state highway patrol trooper Ben Gardner said. He posted a video showing his boots sliding across the highway blacktop like an ice-skating rink. We are in it now, Gardner said as he drove to the scene of an accident. Online, he begged for prayers and warned that some roadways were nearly impassable. Freezing rain in Wichita, Kansas, sent authorities to multiple crashes in the morning, and police urged drivers to stay home if possible and watch out for emergency vehicles. Governors in neighboring Missouri and nearby Arkansas declared states of emergency. Whiteout conditions threatened to make driving dangerous to impossible, forecasters warned, and heighten the risk of becoming stranded. Advertisement The Kansas City international airport temporarily halted flight operations in the afternoon due to ice. Dozens of flights were delayed, including a charter jet transporting the Kansas City Chiefs, before the runways reopened. Several businesses closed across the Kansas City area, and the school district in suburban Independence, Missouri, said it might need to cancel classes for one or more days. Starting Monday the eastern two-thirds of the country will experience dangerous, bone-chilling cold and wind chills, forecasters said. Temperatures could be 12 to 25F (7 to 14C) below normal as the polar vortex stretches down from the high Arctic. In Chicago on Saturday, temperatures hovered in the teens and around 0F in Minneapolis, while dropping to -14F in International Falls, Minnesota, on the Canadian border. Advertisement The Virginia governor, Glenn Youngkin, declared a state of emergency Friday evening ahead of the storm and encouraged residents to vote early on Saturday ahead of the states special elections Tuesday in a statement on X. Similar declarations were issued in Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland and multiple cities in central Illinois. In Louisiana, crews were racing to find a manatee that was spotted in Lake Pontchartrain before the cold temperatures hit. The manatee was first seen New Years Eve in the Mandeville area, north of New Orleans. While manatees are common in the area during the summer, winter sightings are a concern since they can begin to experience cold stress symptoms when the temperature falls below 68F. Advertisement We are doing everything we can to get our hands on this animal, said Gabriella Harlamert, stranding and rehab coordinator for New Orleans Audubon Aquarium Rescue. In an interview with podcaster Lex Fridman, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia would only be workable if the United States would provide security guarantees read more Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that US security guarantees are a must for there to be a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia. In an interview with podcaster Lex Fridman, Zelenskyy made his case for the ceasefire with Russia and how US President-elect Donald Trump can help secure it. Following the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin has said repeatedly that he is open to negotiating a ceasefire with Ukraine but has stuck to maximalist demands. He has made it clear that Ukraine should guarantee it would not join blocs like North Atlantic Treaty Organization (Nato) and European Union (EU) and should commit to limits on its military among other demands related to how language is taught and used in Ukraine. Advertisement Even though Trump has slammed Zelenskyy for emptying US coffers and his allies have floated plans that would essentially serve Russia victory on a platter by freezing conflict-lines on the grounds and taking Nato-EU memberships off the table, Zelenskyy sought to appease Trump throughout the three-hour-long conversation, calling him a strong, young, and someone whose brain works. Even though outgoing US President Joe Biden has supported Ukraine to the hilt and Trump and his allies have historically been friendly with Russia, Zelenskyy said Trump is intellectually and physically stronger than both Biden and outgoing Vice President Kamala Harris. Even though Zelenskyy said there must be a negotiated ceasefire, he said Ukraine should negotiate it from a position of strength and security guarantees must be firm. He highlighted that Ukraine has been given security guarantees before, most notably in the Budapest Memorandum of 1994, but those guarantees proved to be hollow as none of the guarantors came to Ukraines help when Russia invaded Ukraine. Trump has enough power to pressure Putin With less than two weeks before he takes office, Zelenskyy showered praises on Trump, saying he is strong and has enough power to pressure Putin into stopping Russias war on Ukraine. Zelenskyy told Fridman that he would first sit down with Trump reach an understanding about the ceasefire and then they would approach the question of ceasefire with Putin. He made it clear that it was critical for the United States and Ukraine to reach an understanding. Zelenskyy further said that Ukraine should be allowed to negotiate from a position of strength. I love President Trumps message. When he speaks, I think that we share a position on peace through strength. That is very important. We need to be in a strong position and not talk but end the war. Yes, it is possible through dialogue. Were not opposed to it. You just need to be in a strong position to make the other person want it, said Zelenskyy, according to the English translation shared by Fridman. Advertisement The interview was originally conducted in a mix of English, Ukrainian, and Russian languages. On the question of whether Putin wants peace, Zelensky said: I think this is naive. Im sorry. With all due respect, its naive to think he wants to finish the war. Appeasing Trump further, Zelenskyy said that he has the will to end the war and he is counting on him to end the war. I think that President Trump not only has will. He has all these possibilities and its not just talk. I really count on him and I think that our people really count on him. He has enough power to pressure Putin not into wanting to stop it, said Zelenskyy. Advertisement US security guarantees are a must, says Zelenskyy Zelenskyy made it clear that any ceasefire has to involve the United States. Whether Nato or EU are part of the deal is not important, but whats important is whether the United States is part of the deal, according to Zelenskyy. If the Trump-brokered ceasefire happens without US guarantees, then Putin will game everyone and resume the war at some point, said Zelenskyy. If the ceasefire happens without security guarantees, at least for the territory we control, what does he get? If he manages to make a ceasefire deal, and three months later, Putin launches a new wave of attacks, what will Trump look like? What will Ukraine look like? said Zelenskyy, implying that if a Trump-brokered ceasefire falters in the absence of security guarantees, then Trump will lose face in front of the world. Advertisement Zelenskyys focus on security guarantees comes as Ukraine has shifted its approach in recent months in the wake of Trumps emergence as the next US leaders. Instead of the maximalist demand of all territories with Russia, Ukraine has been pushing for security guarantees to safeguard the nation from more ingress and leveraging those guarantees to secure a middle ground of sorts. When asked if he would be willing to accept Natos security guarantees, Zelenskyy flatly refused to be part of an arrangement without US guarantees. Zelenskyy said, We dont need guarantees without the United States. Thats it because the United States is a very strong, powerful country. The United States puts the point. Advertisement Comparing Russias war on Ukraine with the Iran-supporter war on Israel in West Asia, Zelenskyy said that security guarantees need to work in a similar way. He said that the way US, British, French, and Arab partners have come together to guarantee Israels safety in the wake of Iranian attacks, the United States also needs to guarantee that it would be willing to stand up to deter attacks on Ukraine and foil them if needed. Referring to the Budapest Memorandum of 1994, as per which Ukraine gave up worlds third-largest nuclear arsenal in lieu of security guarantees and recognition of territorial sovereignty from the United States, United Kingdom, and Russia, Zelenskyy said that the guarantees turned out to be meaningless. He said that Ukraine sent letters after letters to these countries for help in the wake of Russian aggression, but none of the countries intervened to implement the guarantees. Using extraordinarily strong language, Zelenskyy blasted the security guarantors and said they didnt give a fuck about their commitment after Ukraine reached out to them when Russia invaded Crimea in 2014 and waged a low-intensity war in the Donbas region. We sent letters to all security guarantors, to all members of the Budapest Memorandum. What did they send? That what was written on the piece of paper Ukraine holds consultations. If its integrity is violated, everyone should be in consultation. Everyone must come. Everyone must meet urgently USA, Britain, Russia, France, China. Did anyone come, you ask? No. Did anyone reply to these letters official letters? They are all recorded by diplomats. Did anyone conduct consultations? No, and why not? They didnt give a fuck, said Zelenskyy. Machado claims that Maduro was soundly defeated in the July 28 vote by her partys candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, who has since been recognized as president-elect by the United States, Italy and several Latin American countries read more Venezuelas opposition called Sunday for mass protests on January 9, a day before President Nicolas Maduro is set to begin a third term following his widely disputed reelection. This day will be recorded in history as the day Venezuela said: enough! popular opposition figure Maria Corina Machado said in a video shared on X. Freedom cannot be begged for it must be conquered, it must be won. Machado claims that Maduro was soundly defeated in the July 28 vote by her partys candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, who has since been recognized as president-elect by the United States, Italy and several Latin American countries. Advertisement Venezuelan electoral authorities declared Maduro the winner shortly after the vote but have yet to release detailed results. The opposition meanwhile has released a large set of polling-site results, showing Gonzalez Urrutia winning by a wide margin. Mass protests broke out in the wake of the election, with a wave of crackdowns and clashes leaving at least 28 people dead and over 2,000 arrested. Machado has been in hiding since the election but has appeared intermittently at protests in the capital Caracas. Im going with you. This January 9th, EVERYONE in the streets, in Venezuela and around the world, Machado wrote on X. Gonzalez Urrutia, who fled the country to Spain in September after being targeted by an arrest warrant, is currently on an international tour and was expected to be in Washington on Monday after stops in Montevideo and Buenos Aires. Third stop: Washington DC, he posted Sunday evening on X. The 75-year-old former diplomat has pledged to return to his country to be sworn in as president on January 10. Pakistan and Bangladesh appear to be rekindling their ties, previously marred by historically strained relations. A series of collaborative initiatives signal a new era of cooperation between the two countries read more In a significant shift in diplomatic relations, Pakistan and Bangladesh appear to be rekindling their ties, previously marred by historically strained relations. A series of collaborative initiatives signal a new era of cooperation between the two countries. These include Bangladesh opening a sea route for ships from Pakistan, allowing entry without stringent checks, and relaxing the visa regime to enable Pakistani visitors to enter without prior scrutiny. Additionally, Pakistan has introduced a fellowship programme for Bangladeshi students and scholars, along with an agreement for army training between the two countries. Advertisement Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dars forthcoming visit to Dhaka the first by a Pakistani foreign minister since 2012 has invigorated efforts to strengthen relations with Bangladesh in light of the changing political landscape. Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had met at the D8 Summit in December 2024, agreeing to strengthen ties between their countries. Yunus urged Sharif to address the unresolved issues from 1971 to help Dhaka move forward. In response, Sharif acknowledged the 1974 tripartite agreement with India as a resolution but expressed willingness to review any outstanding matters. Heres a look at latest initiates being taken by the two governments: Pak foreign ministers impending visit to Bangladesh Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is set to visit Bangladesh next month for the first time in nearly 13 years, following a political shift after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government. Dar described Bangladesh as Pakistans lost brother, saying that his upcoming visit to Dhaka will be crucial. Speaking at a press conference last week, Dar said he is likely to visit Bangladesh on or after February 5 after returning from a Malaysia tour from February 3-5. This trip is seen as Pakistans effort to revive ties that have declined during Hasinas four terms in office since 2008, which ended abruptly with her ousting in August amid mass protests. We will work, support and cooperate on the economic and trade fronts, and things are moving fast on these fronts, Times of India quoted Dar as saying, adding that he was invited by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus during the D-8 Summit in Cairo in December. Advertisement His visit will be the first by any Pakistani foreign minister since 2012. Former foreign minister Hina Rabbani Khar was the last foreign minister to travel to Dhaka in 2012. According to The Express Tribune report, foreign minister Dar also confirmed that Yunus has accepted Pakistans invitation to travel to Islamabad at mutually agreed dates. Pakistan varsity, OIC body launch fellowship programme for Bangladeshi students, scholars The Organisation of Islamic Cooperations (OIC) ministerial standing committee on scientific and technological cooperation (COMSTECH) has partnered with Pakistans University of Lahore to launch a scholarship programme for Bangladeshi students and scholars, according to state-run media on Sunday. The initiative comes amid efforts by both Bangladesh and Pakistan to mend historically strained relations following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August last year through a student-led movement. According to the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), the scholarship programme is available to Bangladeshi nationals aged 22 to 45, regardless of their location. Benefits include tuition fee remission, round-trip airfare, an honorarium, and free accommodation. This fellowship programme is a testament to our commitment to bridging gaps in education and research across the Muslim world, Times of India quoted Muhammad Iqbal Chaudhary, COMSTECHs coordinator general, as saying. He added that by investing in Bangladeshi scholars and students, they aim to cultivate a generation of innovators and leaders ready to tackle contemporary challenges. Eligible candidates can apply for scholarships until March 1. Advertisement Bangladesh planning to buy Abdali missiles from Pak Amid escalating tensions between India and Bangladesh, Dhaka is reportedly considering the purchase of Abdali Short Range Ballistic Missiles (SRBMs), also known as Hatf-2 missiles, from Pakistan as a deterrent against potential Indian aggression. According to an intelligence report by the defense website Indian Defence Research Wing (Idrw), Bangladesh has approached Pakistan for these 400 km-range missiles. The report suggests that Pakistan may agree to the request to bolster its regional influence by supporting Dhaka, which is currently at odds with New Delhi. Moreover, selling the Abdali SRBMs is unlikely to significantly alter the strategic balance, as these missiles are short-range and primarily aimed at India. Advertisement However, to fulfill Dhakas request, Islamabad will need to navigate global arms control frameworks, such as the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), which could impact the final decision, despite neither country being a member. Experts warn that if Bangladesh acquires these missiles, the Abdali SRBMs used by the Pakistani Army could pose a considerable threat to Indias northeastern states. Developed by Pakistans Space Research Commission (SUPARCO), the Abdali missile system is designed for quick reaction battlefield scenarios and provides a tactical edge to the Pakistan Army in such situations. Pakistan, Bangladesh ink Army training agreement The Pakistan Army is set to officially train the Bangladesh Army starting February 2025, marking the first such arrangement since 1971. The development comes as India reevaluates its strategy, particularly concerning the northeastern states, amid growing tensions. Beginning next month, the Pakistan Army will provide training at four Bangladesh army cantonments, starting with the Mymensingh cantonment, which houses the doctrine and training command headquarters. Officers of Major General rank from Pakistan are scheduled to visit Bangladesh to oversee the training of soldiers. Advertisement The agreement follows the decision of Yunus to improve relations with Islamabad, leading to several policies favoring Pakistan in recent months. The proposal for military training was initiated by Pakistans Chief of Staff Committee Chairman, General S Samshad Mirza, with the training programme slated to last for one year. As these developments unfold, Indian officials remain vigilant about the implications for regional security. With inputs from agencies Boric and a delegation of officials visited Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station which is a US research base. His office said that this was the first time a president from a Latin American nation had set foot on the continent read more Chiles President Gabriel Boric paid a visit to the South Pole on Friday in a bid to solidify the countrys claims over land that belongs to no one. The ceremonial visit to Antarctica came at a time when the competition among countries to claim the region had reached an all-time high. Boric and a delegation of officials visited Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station which is a US research base. His office said that this was the first time a president from a Latin American nation had set foot on the continent. Boric declared the trip as a landmark and a confirmation of our claim of sovereignty in this space. Advertisement The visit came at a time, when the Arctic in the North has garnered attention with climate change, ultimately making the region important for global trade. Countries around the world are interested in garnering access to natural resources that are present on both continents. The no mans land In contrast to the Arctic, Antarctica more or less remained under the radar of the hawks around the world. It is pertinent to note that the area is governed by the Antarctic Treaty System, which mandates that Antarctica shall be used for peaceful purposes only. The pact was signed during the Cold War era and subsequent agreements have been drawn out to keep the continent a military-free zone. For decades the system has largely succeeded in establishing international consensus over the matter. Over the years, several nations have long-established or new facilities in Antarctica conducting scientific research. Some of this research also deals with the regions strategic and commercial potential. However, Antarcticas harsh environment has prevented the continent from being exploited. But things have changed in recent years. Russia has increased efforts to build monitoring stations for GLONASS, its version of the Global Positioning System, which experts say also has military use. Three stations have been operating in Antarctica since 2015. Meanwhile, in 2023, China announced plans to build new satellite stations in Antarctica, another project with potential military applications. However, the treaty bans mining in the region, protecting small reserves of iron ore, coal and chromium. Another facet of the treaty that involves environmental protections will be up for review in 2048, The New York Times reported. But, the treaty could be undermined before then. Some signatories of the Antarctic treaty have also staked territorial claims a number of which overlap while others do not recognize the territorial claims of other countries. Chile is one of the few countries claiming territory on the continent and has managed to install a permanent settlement called Villa Las Estrellas. In May 2024, Chile sought to strengthen its territorial claims by holding a meeting with defence officials in the Antarctic. They called the meeting a symbol of sovereignty amid tension over Russias reported geological surveys in the Weddell Sea, an Antarctic region off South Americas southernmost tip. Advertisement With inputs from agencies. boAt today unveiled its latest lineup of audio products and significant technology partnerships at CES 2025 in Las Vegas. The company demonstrated its ongoing commitment to creating high-quality audio solutions that are Designed & Engineered in India for a global audience. Nirvana X TWS boAts flagship product at the event is the Nirvana X TWS, a premium true wireless stereo (TWS) offering. Designed and engineered in India, this product features Knowles Balanced Armature drivers and Mimis personalized audio technology to deliver an audiophile-grade listening experience. The Nirvana X TWS aims to combine top-tier performance with health-conscious benefits, making it an ideal choice for users seeking both superior sound quality and an optimized auditory experience. Upcoming Nirvana Series for FY26 In addition to the Nirvana X TWS, boAt provided an exclusive preview of its upcoming Nirvana product lineup for FY26. This range includes the much-anticipated Nirvana Crystl, another Made in India product, alongside the Nirvana Zenith Pro and Nirvana Ivy Pro. These models are set to take the TWS experience to new heights. The company also highlighted the growing success of the Nirvana Ivy, which has already set new benchmarks in the TWS category. Technological Advancements and Collaborations boAts showcase at CES 2025 also highlighted its strategic collaborations with leading global technology partners. The company is integrating advanced technologies, such as: Ceva RealSpace spatial audio rendering engine with head tracking for immersive audio experiences. Dolby Atmos for rich, dynamic sound. LDAC for high-resolution audio streaming. Hi-Res Audio certification from the Japan Audio Society for top-tier sound clarity. Knowles Balanced Armature drivers for enhanced audio performance. Mimi personalized audio technology to optimize sound based on individual hearing profiles. These innovations, co-developed with international experts, aim to provide world-class audio experiences while celebrating Indias engineering expertise. Innovation at boAtLabs boAts success is driven by boAtLabs, the companys in-house research and development team based in India. boAtLabs plays a crucial role in the design, prototyping, and development of new products. This innovation hub enables boAt to push the boundaries of audio technology while meeting the needs of a global audience, all while staying true to the Made in India commitment. Speaking about boAts presence at CES 2025, Sameer Mehta, Co-Founder & CEO of boAt, said, Welcome to my genealogy blog. Genea-Musings features genealogy research tips and techniques, genealogy news items and commentary, genealogy humor, San Diego genealogy society news, family history research and some family history stories from the keyboard of Randy Seaver (of Chula Vista CA), who thinks that Genealogy Research Is really FUN! Copyright (c) Randall J. Seaver, 2006-2024. 'Wicked' star Ariana Grande said her yellow Givenchy gown was a nod to the Yellow Brick Road in the land of Oz Researchers from the UK and Ireland are collaborating on a new project to develop a key technology which will enable the next generation of wireless communications. Engineers from the University of Glasgow are teaming up with colleagues from the Tyndall National Institutes Wireless Communications Laboratory (WCL) for the project, called Active intelligent Reconfigurable surfaces for 6G wireless COMmunications, or AR-COM. Together with key industry partners, they will work to improve the design of smart materials called intelligent reconfigurable surfaces (IRS) which are expected to play a key role in the ultrafast 6G wireless networks of the future. Tyndalls WCL, based at University College Cork, was founded in 2020 by three former scientists from Nokia Bell Labs Holger Claussen, Lester Ho and Senad Bulja - to boost Tyndalls research activities in the communications space. AR-COM is supported by 1m in funding from UKRIs Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) in addition to 500K from Research Ireland. Over the next three years, the AR-COM partners will develop new materials and methods to help IRS technologies achieve their full potential in the millimetre-wave and terahertz ranges of the communications spectrum. Intelligent reflecting surfaces are capable of intercepting weak wireless signals both indoors and outdoors to actively guide them to devices, boosting the strength of the signal in the process to maximise performance. In the future, as demand for improved indoor wireless signals increases, IRS devices could provide better mobile coverage in buildings with poor reception, enable more reliable high-speed internet connections and support new 6G applications which will require extremely reliable wireless connections. AR-COM will move through four key stages of research and development. In the first stage, the researchers will focus on creating advanced switches engineered from materials called transition metal oxides (TMOs) to enable precise and rapid control over wireless signal strength. The second stage will develop technology to control the direction of wireless signals. The researchers will study how signals move through carefully designed layers of metal and TMO materials and find new ways for signals to be steered around obstacles in complex indoor environments. In the third stage, the team will develop miniature signal amplifiers built using devices called resonant tunnelling diodes (RTDs), which can boost weakened signals while requiring very low amounts of power to operate. Finally, the team will integrate all their newly-developed elements into a fully-functional IRS system which can effectively manipulate wireless signals with no signal loss and low latency, and maximise signal quality even in the most challenging environments. Large-scale IRS tested with 4096 unit cells at the University of Glasgow The project is the latest development in cutting-edge 6G research from the University of Glasgows Communications, Sensing and Imaging (CSI) hub. Professor Qammer H. Abbasi, director of the CSI Hub at the University of Glasgows James Watt School of Engineering, is the AR-COMSs principal investigator. He said: "Current materials used in wireless communications face significant limitations, especially at the higher frequencies that 6G networks will require. With AR-COM, were building on the expertise of the University of Glasgow and the Tyndall Institute with the support of key industry partners to develop truly next-generation technologies. Dr Senad Bulja will lead Tyndall National Institutes contribution to AR-COM. He said: Resonant tunnelling diodes, which can amplify signals while using very little power, and transition metal oxides which can act as ultra-fast switches have a great deal of potential to help overcome the bottlenecks of current generations of IRS technologies. Together, these technologies will help us create surfaces that not only redirect signals but also boost them with minimal energy consumption, which will help them find use in a wide range of devices in the years to come. Professor Muhammad Imran, project co-investigator and the head of the James Watt School of Engineering, said: Intelligent reconfigurable surfaces will be key to solving the challenges of delivering robust 6G networks and enabling the next generation of wireless applications. Ultrafast, ultra-low latency wireless networks will underpin new forms of communication and sensing that will transform how we interact with each other in the years to come. Professor Holger Claussen, who leads Tyndalls Wireless Communications Laboratory, said: Flexible spectrum usage is fully enabled by the capability of communications hardware and is expected to play a major role in 6G applications. Addressing this challenge requires major scientific breakthroughs not only in the area of new materials needed to create reconfigurable THz devices, but also in new communications architectures. Marrying new materials with IRS will unlock potential required to create low-loss and high-speed reconfigurable networks. AR-COM is supported industry partners Analog Devices Inc (UK), Ericsson Silicon Valley, Nokia, Samsung Electronics UK Ltd, and Virgin. Secretary Blinken's Call with Egyptian Foreign Minister Abdelatty US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson January 4, 2025 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty today. The Secretary and Foreign Minister discussed the latest developments in ongoing efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza that secures the release of the hostages, increases the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, and brings an end to the war. They further discussed the situation in Syria. The Secretary reaffirmed U.S. support for an inclusive, Syrian-led and Syrian-owned peaceful political transition to a representative and accountable government. The Secretary also expressed his appreciation for the role Egypt continues to play to secure peace in the region and underlined the importance of the U.S.-Egypt strategic partnership. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Palestinian sources deny reports Hamas leaders left Gaza as part of truce deal IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 5, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- Sources from Palestinian resistance groups, familiar with the ongoing round of talks over a ceasefire in Gaza, have denied reports claiming that Hamas leaders have left the besieged enclave as part of conditions set by Israel to reach a deal. The sources, who talked to London-based news outlet Al-Araby Al-Jadeed also known as the New Arab, said the reports are part of what they called "media war". The news outlet cited the same sources in a report it published on Sunday that the ceasefire talks are still ongoing due to the existence of some outstanding points to resolve which the Israeli delegation said it should negotiate with the regime's political officials. The sources emphasized that the talks are aimed at reaching a comprehensive deal for a ceasefire. On Friday, the Hamas resistance movement confirmed that a new round of indirect talks with Israel on a ceasefire in Gaza had resumed in Qatar's capital Doha. Hamas said it is serious to reach a deal as soon as possible, which fulfills Gazans' expectations. The movement also said the new talks will focus on agreeing on a permanent ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, coupled with ensuring the return of the displaced people to their homes. Previous rounds of negotiations on a ceasefire in Gaza have failed in the past months, with Hamas blaming the deadlock on Israel over its refusal to completely withdraw from Gaza. The regime's delaying a ceasefire in Gaza has also caused outrage among Israelis, including the families of the captives still held by Hamas. The Israelis, critical of their authorities, say a ceasefire deal is the only way to return the captives and the cabinet is playing with their lives by refusing to accept Hamas's demands. Hamas took some 250 people captive during its Al Aqsa Storm Operation on the southern part of Israeli-occupied territories on October 7, 2023. Around 100 people remain in captivity, while the rest have either been released or killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza. 4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Northwest Chinas Xinjiang sees record high passenger crossings and freight transport at its ports in 2024 Global Times) 10:14, January 06, 2025 A China-Europe freight train bound for Kazakhstan passes through Horgos railway port in Horgos, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Dec. 25, 2024. Horgos Port, a major railway hub in Xinjiang, has facilitated 8,541 China-Europe freight train trips by Dec. 24 this year, according to statistics from the railway department of Horgos Port. (Photo/Xinhua) The volume of passenger trips and cross-border freight transport at ports in Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region set new records in 2024, according to official data released on Sunday. A total of 3.251 million inbound and outbound passenger trips were recorded, up 84.93 percent year-on-year, of which visa-free foreign visitors numbered 626,000, marking a 390 percent year-on-year surge, reported the Xinjiang Daily, citing statistics from the Xinjiang Exit-Entry Border Inspection General Station. Vehicle, train, and flight crossings totaling 1.362 million were recorded, a 56 percent year-on-year increase. In 2024, several Xinjiang ports, including Horgos, Alashankou, and Turgart, set records in passenger crossings and cargo flows. The customs clearance number of entry-exit trains through Xinjiang's ports accounted for 40 percent of China's total railway port crossings, securing the top spot nationally, with Alashankou and Horgos taking the first and second slots, respectively. In 2024, the number of China-Europe Railway Express freight trains passing through the Alashankou railway port totaled 7,684, up 15.8 percent year-on-year, a record high. The maximum number of trains in a single day was 29, with an average of 21 trains passing through daily, official statistics showed. According to statistics from Horgos railway port, the number of freight trains under the China-Europe Railway Express passing through the port reached 8,730 in 2024, an increase of 12.5 percent year-on-year, and the shipment of goods reached 12.084 million tons, an increase of 10.9 percent year-on-year, both setting new records. The Horgos railway port served more than 22 China-Europe Railway Express trains per day. So far, the total number of China-Europe Railway Express trains passing through the Horgos railway port has exceeded 40,000, and the total number of railway express routes reached 85, radiating out to 46 cities in 18 countries abroad, making Xinjiang an important logistics channel connecting China and Eurasia. The China-Kazakhstan Horgos International Border Cooperation Center recorded 7.59 million passenger visits, an 81 percent increase from a year earlier. The Xinjiang region launched 24 new international passenger routes to connect with 17 countries and regions in 2024. An aerial drone photo taken on July 26, 2024, shows a view of the Horgos International Border Cooperation Center on the China-Kazakhstan border in Horgos, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Since the implementation of mutual visa exemption between Kazakhstan and China in November 2023, Horgos Port has witnessed a substantial increase in entry and exit tourist trips. In recent days, the Horgos International Border Cooperation Center on the China-Kazakhstan border has ushered in the peak of border tourism. (Photo/Xinhua) "Xinjiang's geographical advantages are being fully leveraged, and its ports present a flourishing landscape with a boost from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the China (Xinjiang) Pilot Free Trade Zone (FTZ)," Liu Peng, deputy head of the Xinjiang Exit-Entry Border Inspection General Station, was quoted as saying. In 2023, China unveiled an overall plan for building a pilot FTZ in Xinjiang, aiming to make the region a model in the high-quality development of China's central and western regions, better serve the construction of the BRI core area, facilitate its role as a bridgehead for westward opening-up, and make a positive contribution to the joint building of a China-Central Asia community of a shared future. It was the first FTZ in China's northwestern border regions and the 22nd nationwide. As a result, Xinjiang's foreign trade hit 403.11 billion yuan ($55.1 billion) from January to November 2024, an increase of 26 percent year-on-year, according to customs data. The growth rate was the fastest across the country for the period. In 2025, Xinjiang plans to advance intelligent port construction and introduce smart border inspection systems to enhance border clearance efficiency further. Meanwhile, the region will continue to improve the level of immigration management, and ensure the smooth flow of cross-border personnel and goods through the ports, said Liu. In order to increase the efficiency of port clearance, Xinjiang introduced several dedicated channels in 2024, such as a specific channel for BRI-related cargo and agricultural products, and a green channel for livelihood products. At railway ports, the "parallel check" of border inspection and customs clearance is being implemented, which has cut port crossing times by nearly 50 percent and reduced transportation costs by 30 percent. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) Five Israeli soldiers injured in Gaza bomb blast IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 5, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- Five Israeli soldiers have been injured in a bomb explosion in Gaza, Hebrew media outlets have reported. The outlets reported the incident on Sunday. Citing Israeli hospital sources, they said two of the wounded soldiers are in critical condition. No further details were reported on how and where the explosion took place. Earlier on Sunday, the military wing of the Palestinian Hamas Resistance Movement announced an operation targeting a group of ten Israeli soldiers in Gaza's northern city of Beit Lahia. The Ezzoddin al-Qassam Brigades said that several soldiers were killed or injured as a result, but did not specify. It said the operation was jointly conducted by Al-Quds Brigades, the armed wing of another Palestinian resistance movement, the Islamic Jihad. Al-Qassam said that another Israeli soldier, who was fleeing, was shot point-blank and killed after he was chased by resistance fighters. Official Israeli figures have put the regime's military fatalities at over 850 since the start of the war in early October last year. Palestinian resistance groups however say that the number is much higher, as the regime refuses to release real figures amid public discontent over the conflict that has dragged on for 15 months now. 4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Yemen's Ansarullah rejects US' offer on anti-Israeli attacks IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 5, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- Yemen's Ansarullah Movement has rejected a US proposal regarding its attacks against the Zionist regime. According to Arabi21, an informed Yemeni source in Washington said that Ansarullah had turned down the US offer to negotiate and halt its attacks against the Zionist regime in exchange for ceasing any attacks by the US and the Zionist regime. Washington employs carrot-and-stick tactics in its negotiations with Yemen's Ansarullah. While promising financial support to and the removal of Ansarullah from the terrorism list, it has announced a large-scale attack against Ansarallah's facilities in Sana'a and other Yemeni provinces. The source also revealed that US President Joe Biden has authorized the Department of Defense to carry out extensive operations against Ansarullah. The Biden administration had previously postponed this operation until after the end of the US election campaign in which Donald Trump emerged victorious. The source further stated that the Pentagon had completed its preparations for extensive military operations against Ansarullah's positions in Yemen, but the operation was delayed until the end of the US election campaign. 9376**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran condemns fresh US-UK aggression against Yemen's Sa'ada IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 5, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- Iran's Foreign Ministry has strongly condemned airstrikes carried out by the United States and the United Kingdom targeting infrastructure in Yemen's Sa'ada province. In a statement on Sunday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei denounced the attacks by the US, UK, and Israel as a blatant violation of Yemen's sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasizing that such actions contradict international law and the United Nations Charter. He warned that these aggressive acts would further exacerbate insecurity and instability in West Asia. American and British warplanes launched fresh offensives against Sa'ada early on Sunday, just days after their aerial bombardment of the western coastal province of Hudaydah. According to Yemen's official Saba news agency, they carried out three aerial attacks east of the provincial capital city of Sa'ada. Baghaei also censured the ongoing Israeli genocide of Palestinians and continued US and UK political and military support for the Zionist regime, which he described as direct complicity in heinous international crimes against the people of Gaza. Praising the solidarity shown by the people of Yemen and other freedom-loving nations in support of Palestinians, he called for more decisive action by the international community, particularly the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, to halt the genocide in occupied Palestine and assist displaced Gazans. 4354**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US, UK bomb northern Yemen IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 5, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- Yemeni media have reported fresh airstrikes by the US and the UK on the Arab country. Yemen's Al Masirah TV Channel said early on Sunday that the latest airstrikes targeted the northern governorate of Sa'ada. It said that US and UK fighter jets bombed the province three times, without giving details about possible casualties or damage. The two Western states have been bombing different areas of Yemen, especially the western key port city of Hodeidah since mid-January 2024, claiming that the airstrikes aim to protect international shipping in the wake of Yemen's operations on Israel-bound ships. Yemen began those operations on November 19, 2024, in a bid to put pressure on the Israeli regime to end its war on Gaza. Yemen has promised that it will continue its pro-Gaza operations despite the US-UK air aggression which Sana'a says is aimed at supporting the Israeli regime. 1483**4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel keeps violating resolution 1701, ceasefire with Lebanon: UNIFIL IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 5, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has said that the Israeli regime is deliberately violating Security Council Resolution 1701 and a November ceasefire agreement reached between Tel Aviv and Beirut. IRNA citing Lebanon's Al-Mayadeen Network said UNIFIL issued a statement on Saturday night highlighting the ceasefore violation by the Zionist regime. "Today (Saturday) the peacekeeping forces saw an Israeli army bulldozer destroying a blue barrel that marks the withdrawal line in the "Al-Labuneh" area", the statement said. In addition, the Israeli army also destroyed a Lebanese Armed Forces' watchtower, located next to one of UNIFIL's positions, it added. This statement continues by saying that the deliberate and direct destruction by the Israeli army is a clear violation of Resolution 1701 and international law. UNIFIL, a peacekeeping mission established in 1978, called on the Israeli regime to comply with international obligations and immediately stop such activities. Resolution 1701 was passed after the 33-day war between Israel and Lebanon in 2006 and emphasizes the need to maintain a ceasefire and respect border lines that was pledged by both sides in a truce deal that went into effect on November 27, 2024. However, Israel has repeatedly violated the ceasefire, with reports documenting over 333 breaches, resulting in 32 Lebanese deaths and 38 injuries. Just on Saturday night, Lebanese sources reported the penetration of the Zionist army in the town of Burj al-Maluk in the Marjayoun area in southern Lebanon and closing the road by placing barbed wire. Also, a group of Zionist soldiers advanced into Wadi al-Hajir in the suburbs of al-Qasir and Dhahirah regions in southern Lebanon. Over the past two days, there are reports of more than a dozen violation of the recent ceasefire deal by the Zionist regime. 4399 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hamas warns of intensified anti-Zionist op in West Bank IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 5, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has hailed a shooting operation in the occupied Palestinian territory, wanting that such resistance attacks will increase in the future. According to IRNA citing media sources, Hamas in a statement on Saturday night, said that the shooting at settlers in the West Bank is a "natural reaction to the Zionist regime's war and genocide" of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. The resistance movement underscored that the blows the West Bank will inflict on the Zionist occupation regime will be painful. The attacks against the occupiers have intensified to the extent that they [resistance fighters] will harm the Zionists in every part of the occupied West Bank. The statement came after Israel's 14 Channel announced that several armed individuals opened fire on settlers, southeast of the West Bank city of Nablus on Saturday. So far, no reports have been released of possible casualties or damage from this attack. Resistance fighters often used available means such as small fire arms of knife to carry out operations against Zionist settlers or forces in the West Bank or East al-Quds in retaliation for their atrocities in the occupied territories and the ongoing genocide in Gaza. Since the onset of the war on Gaza back in October 2023, the regime has killed hundreds and detained thousands of Palestinians in the West Bank alone. 4399 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hamas approves list of 34 Israeli captives to release amid Doha talks Iran Press TV Sunday, 05 January 2025 11:53 PM A senior Hamas official has said that the Palestinian resistance movement is ready to release 34 captives in the "first phase" of a potential ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal. "Hamas has agreed to release 34 Israeli prisoners from a list presented by Israel as part of the first phase of a prisoner exchange deal," the official told AFP on Sunday. The Reuters news agency also reported that Hamas told it that the resistance group had approved a list of 34 captives presented by Israel, to be exchanged in a potential ceasefire deal. Hamas said any deal will depend on an Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip and a permanent ceasefire. The Hamas official told Reuters that Israel has seen no progress on this request. Around 250 people were taken captive on October 7 last year during the Al-Aqsa Storm, a retaliatory operation by Gaza's resistance groups. Hamas released 105 of the captives during a week-long truce last November. Hamas says it will only release the captives if Israel completely halts its aggression on Gaza and agrees to release hundreds of Palestinians held in the regime's prisons. Public and diplomatic pressure has been mounting on the Benjamin Netanyahu regime to do more to strike a deal for securing the release of captives still held in the besieged Gaza Strip. The Israeli regime's prime minister has been obstructing mediation for a truce and a deal to release the 97 captives still held by Palestinian groups in Gaza. The Israeli military says 34 of them are dead. Netanyahu has rejected a series of ceasefire proposals, including one from the US administration in May. The Palestinian resistance groups have been seeking an end to Israeli aggression and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. At least 45,800 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed and 109,000 others wounded since the war began on October 7, 2023. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Gaza faces severe shortage of medicine amid Israel's blockade Iran Press TV Sunday, 05 January 2025 6:00 PM Gaza health officials warn of a severe shortage of medical supplies and medicines amid Israel's inhumane blockade on humanitarian aid into the populated coastal territory. Health official Wael al-Sheikh said Sunday that Gaza's Health Ministry has completely run out of about 20 cancer medicines. "Stocks of 120 medicines, including 20 cancer treatments, are completely depleted in the ministry's warehouses." Healthcare in Gaza has been pushed to the brink of collapse under relentless attacks by Israeli forces on hospitals and health facilities. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), only 16 of the region's 36 hospitals remain partially operational. About 25 percent of the 105,000 injured civilians now face life-changing injuries in Gaza. WHO representative for the West Bank and Gaza Rik Peeperkorn warned that "the health sector is being systematically dismantled" in Gaza. On Saturday, one of the key hospitals in northern Gaza - the Indonesian Hospital - was taken out of service due to Israeli attacks. Kamal Adwan Hospital, North Gaza's main healthcare facility, was also set on fire after being forcefully evacuated on December 28. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel's continuous breaches of truce in Lebanon 'flagrant violation of int'l law': UNIFIL Iran Press TV Sunday, 05 January 2025 3:50 PM The UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon has condemned as a "blatant violation of international law" the Israeli regime's continuous breaches of the ceasefire agreement with the resistance movement Hezbollah. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) made the remarks in a statement on Sunday, noting that the Israeli military is "deliberately" destroying its property and critical infrastructure in southern Lebanon. "This morning peacekeepers witnessed an Israeli army bulldozer destroying a blue barrel marking the withdrawal line between Lebanon and Israel in Labbouneh, as well as a watchtower belonging to the Lebanese Armed Forces adjacent to a UNIFIL site in the area," UNIFIL said. It went on to say that the deliberate and direct destruction by the Israeli military is "a flagrant violation" of international law and UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which ended the 33-day-long Israeli military onslaught on the country in the summer of 2006. The warning comes as Hezbollah leader Sheikh Naim Qassem warned that the resistance group's patience with Israeli violations could run out before the end of the ceasefire's 60-day implementation timeframe. Sheikh Qassem said Hezbollah had decided to show patience, but emphasized that this would not last indefinitely. "We have said that we are giving an opportunity to prevent Israeli violations and to implement the agreement, and we will exercise patience," he said, stressing that "this does not mean that we will wait for 60 days." "The leadership of the resistance determines when to exercise patience, when to take initiative, and when to respond," he said. Hezbollah has already reiterated that it is in full possession of its capabilities, warning that it will respond decisively to Israeli forces occupying Lebanon once the ceasefire concludes. In its statement on Sunday, UNIFIL further called on the Israeli regime to comply with international obligations and immediately stop such activities, adding that it should avoid any actions that could jeopardize the fragile ceasefire with Lebanon, including the destruction of property and civilian infrastructure. The ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon entered into force on November 27. Since then, the regime has violated the agreement on an almost daily basis. The truce came after months of fierce fighting between Israel and Hezbollah. It will last for 60 days in the hope of reaching a permanent cessation of hostilities. Under the agreement, an international monitoring committee, headed by the United States, is tasked with overseeing the implementation of the ceasefire. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran warns US-UK aggressive strikes on Yemen will fuel instability in region Iran Press TV Sunday, 05 January 2025 1:54 PM Iran has warned that the fresh American-British attack on Yemen will fuel "insecurity and instability" in the West Asia region. In a statement on Sunday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei strongly condemned the coalition's air strikes targeting infrastructure in Yemen's northwestern city of Sa'ada, mere days after their aerial bombardment of the western coastal province of Hudaydah. Baghaei said continued military aggression by the United States, Britain and the Israeli regime against Yemen constitutes a clear violation of Yemen's national sovereignty and territorial integrity. He added that the attacks contradict the rules and principles of international law and the United Nations Charter. Yemen's official Saba news agency, citing a local source speaking on condition of anonymity, reported that the Western military alliance carried out three aerial attacks east of the provincial capital city of Sa'ada early on Sunday. There were no immediate reports about the extent of damage caused and possible casualties. The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson also slammed the continued genocide and killings of the oppressed people of Palestine and the ongoing US-UK military and political support for the Israeli regime. Baghaei said the US and Britain's support for the Tel Aviv regime shows their direct involvement in heinous international crimes against the people of Gaza. He commended the honorable stance of the Yemeni people and other free nations in expressing support and solidarity with the Palestinian people. The Iranian spokesman called on the international community and Muslim countries to take more serious action, especially within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), to end the genocide in Palestine and help the displaced people of Gaza. Yemenis have declared their open support for Palestine's struggle against the Israeli occupation since the regime launched its devastating war on Gaza on October 7, 2023, which has killed at least 45,805 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured another 109,064 individuals in Gaza since the onset of the war. The Yemeni armed forces have intensified retaliatory operations against Israeli assets within the occupied territories in support of Palestinians in Gaza facing a genocidal war. Yemen's Ansarullah resistance movement has also been targeting ships linked to Israel, the United States, or the United Kingdom to force an end to the war on Gaza. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Senior official: Hezbollah stronger than ever, ready for all challenges Iran Press TV Sunday, 05 January 2025 11:40 AM A senior Hezbollah official has stated that the Lebanese resistance movement is now stronger than ever before, a fact that the Zionist enemy has witnessed firsthand. Emphasizing the resilience of Hezbollah, Wafiq Safa, the head of the Coordination and Liaison Unit in Hezbollah, said on Sunday that the group is not only sturdier but also more steadfast than steel. "Hezbollah is prepared for all challenges and will always stand firm in defense of the Lebanese nation's morale," he added. He also gave assurances that there is no need for concern amid unfolding developments in Lebanon and elsewhere in the West Asia region. Turning to the election of a new head of state to avoid a power vacuum and help stabilize Lebanon's political landscape, Safa noted, "We have previously stated that Hezbollah has no veto on the nomination of the army commander as President of the Republic." He underscored that Hezbollah's capabilities have been restored, and it is ready to confront any aggression in the manner it deems appropriate. Safa also stated that Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri will discuss Israeli violations with United States envoy Amos Hochstein. Israel was forced to accept the ceasefire with Hezbollah after suffering heavy losses following almost 14 months of fighting and failing to achieve its goals in its aggression on Lebanon. The truce deal came into effect on November 27. It will last for 60 days in the hope of reaching a permanent cessation of hostilities. Under the agreement, an international monitoring committee, headed by the US, is tasked with overseeing the implementation of the ceasefire. Hezbollah has reiterated that it is in full possession of its capabilities, warning that it will respond decisively to Israeli forces occupying Lebanon once the ceasefire concludes. Mahmoud Qamati, deputy head of Hezbollah's political council, in an interview with the al-Manar network recently, said that the group's missile stockpiles and capabilities remain intact, noting that they continued missile strikes against Israel right up to the moment the ceasefire took effect. Qamati explained that the current restraint exercised by the resistance is intended to support the Lebanese population and to honor the commitments made to mediators during ceasefire negotiations to allow for a resolution of outstanding issues. Berri has called on the Israeli regime to adhere to the ceasefire agreement. Hezbollah opened a support front for Palestinians in Gaza only a day after Israel unleashed its campaign of genocide in the besieged territory in October 2023, launching numerous retaliatory attacks against Israeli targets in the occupied lands. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Yemen: Israeli power station in Hadera targeted with hypersonic missile Iran Press TV Sunday, 05 January 2025 10:06 AM Yemeni armed forces have claimed responsibility for an operation against a power station located on the Mediterranean coast in the Israeli-occupied territories, in retaliation for the Tel Aviv regime's genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. The spokesman for the Yemeni Armed Forces Brigadier General Yahya Saree announced in a televised statement on Sunday that Yemeni missile units targeted the Orot Rabin power station in Hadera, with a Palestine-2 hypersonic ballistic missile. Saree added that the retaliatory strike attained its desired objectives successfully. He noted that the Yemeni nation, its leadership, and its armed forces will continue to fulfill their religious, moral, and humanitarian obligations towards oppressed Palestinians. Saree underscored that Yemeni military operations in support of Palestinian resistance fighters in Gaza will continue unabated as long as the ongoing aggression on the impoverished coastal territory persists and the siege is not lifted. A member of the Supreme Political Council of Yemen also issued a warning to Saudi Arabia whose forces targeted a border region on Thursday evening, killing a Yemeni civilian and an African refugee. "Our people have the experience and readiness to confront any escalation of tensions that aim to distract people from the issue of Palestine," Mohammed Ali al-Houthi said. "We tell Saudi Arabia that the de-escalation was a golden opportunity to review the wrong assessments that previously got you into trouble," he said, referring to years of war between the two sides. "You thought that Yemen would fall in two weeks, and today every other mistake will fail and the Yemeni people will win," he added. In March 2015, Saudi Arabia launched a war on Yemen in collaboration with its Arab allies and the support of the US and some Western countries to reinstall a Riyadh-friendly regime and crush the Ansarullah resistance movement. The Saudi-led coalition, however, achieved none of the objectives and remained bogged down in Yemen for years in the face of stiff resistance by its nation and armed forces. Yemenis have been carrying out high-intensity and high-precision military operations against vessels linked to the Israeli regime in the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean. They also carried out long-range missile strikes deep inside the occupied Palestinian territories, including Tel Aviv. Yemen's arsenal includes long-range ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones capable of hitting targets up to 2,000 kilometers away, which has been on full display in recent months and weeks. The domestically manufactured missiles have repeatedly penetrated Israel's much-hyped military systems. In recent weeks, Yemen has notably intensified its pro-Palestinian strikes on Israeli military targets within the occupied territories, employing advanced hypersonic ballistic missiles. In an attempt to halt these pro-Palestinian operations and in support of the Israeli genocide, the US and UK have conducted indiscriminate aerial attacks on the Arab country. However, despite months of heavy airstrikes, Yemeni forces have remained undeterred and continue to target Israeli-linked vessels in regional waters. These attacks have also prompted Yemen to retaliate by targeting West's military assets stationed off its coastline. The Yemeni armed forces have said they will not stop their attacks until Israel's ground and aerial offensives in Gaza end. Israel has killed at least 45,717 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured another 108,856 individuals in Gaza since the onset of the war. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US, UK launch fresh aerial strikes on Yemen's Sa'ada Iran Press TV Sunday, 05 January 2025 7:01 AM US and British forces have conducted fresh airstrikes targeting Yemen's northwestern city of Sa'ada, mere days following the alliance's aerial bombardment of the western coastal province of Hudaydah. Yemen's official Saba news agency, citing a local source speaking on condition of anonymity, reported that the Western military alliance carried out three aerial attacks east of the provincial capital city of Sa'ada early on Sunday. There were no immediate reports about the extent of damage caused and possible casualties. On December 30, the US-British naval coalition launched two airstrikes on Yemen's western coastal province of Hudaydah, targeting the at-Tuhayta district in the southwest of the province. Yemen's al-Masirah television channel did not provide further details at the time, but residents in the district said on social media that two powerful explosions shook their homes. Yemeni armed forces have intensified retaliatory operations against Israeli assets within the occupied territories in support of Palestinians in Gaza facing a genocidal war. Yemenis have declared their open support for Palestine's struggle against the Israeli occupation since the regime launched its devastating war on Gaza on October 7, 2023, after the territory's resistance movements carried out Operation Al-Aqsa Flood against the occupying entity. Yemen's Ansarullah resistance movement has also been targeting ships linked to Israel, the United States, or the United Kingdom to force an end to the Tel Aviv regime's genocidal war on Gaza. These operations have effectively shut down the Eilat port south of the occupied territories, causing significant economic setbacks for the Israelis. The Yemeni armed forces have said they will not stop their attacks until Israel's ground and aerial offensives in Gaza end. Israel has killed at least 45,717 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured another 108,856 individuals in Gaza since the onset of the war. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Jan. 4: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation Iran Press TV Sunday, 05 January 2025 6:06 AM By Press TV Website Staff Amid the West-backed Israeli genocidal war on Gaza, which has killed over 45,700 Palestinians so far, resistance groups in Palestine and across the region continue their operations against the Tel Aviv regime and its Western backers. The major operations by the Palestinian resistance groups on Saturday, Jan. 4, are as follows: Al-Quds Brigades' operations on Jan. 4: Targeted building where a number of Israeli soldiers were holed up in the Al-Sikka area east of Jabalia camp, in a joint operation with cooperation with the Al-Aqsa Brigades and Al-Amoudi Brigade. Martyr Abu Ali Mustafa Brigades' operations on Jan. 4: Targeted an Israeli military command and control site in the "Netzarim" axis with a barrage of rockets. In a joint operation with the Ansar Brigades, bombarded an Israeli military command and control site in Jhar al-Dik with a barrage of rockets. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Yemen slams missile into northern part of occupied territories Iran Press TV Sunday, 05 January 2025 1:09 AM Yemen's Armed Forces have fired a missile towards the northern part of the occupied Palestinian territories, hitting their intended target accurately. The country's Government Media Office announced implementation of the operation in early Sunday, asserting that the missile passed through all of the Israeli regime's missile interception systems. "Despite the occupying regime's claims of intercepting the Yemeni missile outside the occupied Palestine's skies, the projectile flew past all of the Zionist regime's missile systems," the office noted. Earlier, the Israeli military alleged hitting the missile before its entering the occupied territories' airspace. It, however, acknowledged that the strike set off alarm sounds in the Talmei Elazar area. Illegal settlers in the central part of the occupied territories also reported hearing explosions, the military said, claiming that the blasts had occurred as a result of the interception. Alarms also went off in the holy occupied city of al-Quds as well as the town of Tel Mond and the illegal settlements of Rishon Lezion, Kfar Saba, Ganei Tikva, Petah Tikva, Hod Hasharon, Kokhav Yair, Lod, Tayibe, and the illegal settlement of Sal'it in the occupied West Bank, it said. On Saturday, the Yemeni forces fired a hypersonic ballistic missile and a drone towards the city of Yaffa near Tel Aviv, likewise striking their intended targets accurately. They described the operation as a manifestation of "triumphing for the Palestinian people and their Mujahideen (Fighters), and in response to the massacres against our people in Gaza, and within the fifth phase of the supportive stages in the battle of the Promised Conquest and the Holy Jihad (Struggle) and in retaliation to the aggression against our country." The troops began launching their operations against Israeli targets last October in support of the Gaza Strip and Lebanon, which have respectively come under a war of genocide and escalated deadly assaults by the Israeli regime. The successful strikes were both preceded and followed by intensified deadly aggression by the regime and the United States, its biggest ally, against the Yemeni territory. The forces have been responding by ramping up their strikes against strategic and sensitive Israeli and American targets, including the US warships and aircraft carriers that are deployed off Yemen's coastline. They have vowed to keep up their operations as long as the regime sustained its aggression and a simultaneous smothering siege that it has been deploying against Gaza. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Armenian General Arrested Amid Ongoing Political Frictions By RFE/RL's Armenian Service January 05, 2025 The former deputy chief of the general staff of Armenia's armed forces has been arrested on charges of negligence relating to the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war, amid ongoing political tensions inside the Caucasus country. Lieutenant General Tiran Khachatrian was arrested on January 4 and will be detained awaiting trial. State prosecutors allege that Khachatrian failed to perform his official duties during the 44-day war in 2020 between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Khachatrian has denied the accusations and his legal team say they plan to file an appeal. In a January 5 statement, his lawyers called the charges "groundless" and that the detention of the former high-ranking military officer is retribution for his political views and that he is being scapegoated for Armenia's "defeat in the war" with Azerbaijan. The arrest is another sign of the political fault lines opened up in Armenia following Yerevan's losses to Baku in successive campaigns, which have strained Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian's relations with his country's military and put him under increasing public pressure at home. The 2020 war, when Azerbaijani forces took control of a chunk of Nagorno-Karabakh, was the second that Azerbaijan and Armenia fought in the last three decades over the breakaway region, which had been under ethnic Armenian separatists' control, but recognized internationally as part of Azerbaijan since the 1990s. That was followed by a decisive one-day military operation in September 2023 that saw Azerbaijani forces take control of the remaining parts of the region. Khachatrian was awarded the title of National Hero of Armenia in 2020 following the war that year with Azerbaijan, but tensions quickly grew between him and Armenian authorities in its aftermath. In February 2021, Pashinian dismissed Khachatrian from his post as deputy chief of the general staff of the armed forces, which led to escalating frictions with the military. The day after Khachatryan was relieved of his duties, more than 40 of Armenia's top military officers -- including Khachatrian -- called for the resignation of the prime minister and his government. Pashinian condemned the move as part of a coup attempt to depose him. As part of the January 4 preliminary hearing, Armenia's investigative committee said that the charges against Khachatrian stem from the "negligent attitude toward the performance of his official duties" in October 2020, including failing to set up adequate defensive lines, which led to Azerbaijani forces making strategic gains. Khachatrian was also arrested and detained for two months in January 2024 after he fired a gun during a restaurant confrontation. Prosecutors said the former military official injured a bystander at a neighboring table, but Khachatrian denied the charges and said he fired his gun in the air in self-defense. Following that 2024 arrest, Khachatrian's lawyer claimed to RFE/RL that the case was being exploited by the authorities as an opportunity to silence and intimidate him for his criticism of the government. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/aramenian-general-khachatryan- arrested-negligence-nagorno-karabakh/33263959.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Moldova's Breakaway Transdniester Region Braces For Power Cuts, Freezing Cold By RFE/RL's Moldovan Service January 05, 2025 CHISINAU -- Moldova's pro-Moscow breakaway Transdniester region is bracing for additional rolling power cuts and business closures after the supply of Russian natural gas was stopped on January 1 due to the expiration of a contract with Ukraine. As the region suffered throughout a blistering cold spell, Transdniester authorities said rolling power cuts will last four hours on January 5, running from 8 a.m. to noon local time, including in the regional capital, Tiraspol. The separatist government warned that power outages could be extended and suggested residents gather firewood to burn to generate heat. The mainly Russian-speaking region of some 450,000 people faced cuts of one hour on January 3 and three hours on January 4. As of the morning of January 4, at least 157 emergency power outages were recorded, officials said. Most industries, except for those producing food products, have been shut down. On January 4, the closures included a steel factory and bakery in the ancient city of Rybnitsa, with a population of about 48,000. Separatist authorities announced measures to aid the elderly as temperatures were expected to drop to minus-10 Celsius overnight. The January 3 "introduction of rolling cuts was a test. And it confirmed that an hour-long break to keep the electrical supply system operating was insufficient," Vadim Krasnoselsky, Transdniester's de facto leader, wrote on Telegram. "The power generated is not covering sharply rising demand." He said that "1,500 multistory apartment buildings have no heating and hot water. Almost 72,000 private households have no gas. One hundred and fifty gas boiler houses have been shut down. Authorities in the federal capital, Chisinau, confirmed that Moldova is providing electricity to Transdniester after the power plant serving the region switched to coal-fired operation. According to public data, Transdniester's capital, Tiraspol, has reserves of about 70,000 tons of coal, which could cover consumption of the region for 30-50 days. But people in at least 11 communities near Tiraspol had no supply of natural gas, heating, and hot water on January 1. The city has set up 30 meeting points where people can gather to warm up and eat hot meals. Meanwhile, about 115,000 households are receiving natural gas supplies only for cooking, according to supplier Tiraspoltransgaz. Transdniester, the breakaway territory on the eastern bank of the Dniester River, has Russian troops on its soil and has governed its own affairs -- with Moscow's backing --- since a war that erupted as the Soviet Union collapsed in the early 1990s. Analysts and Moldovan officials say Russia is seeking to use the cutoff as a part of a wider effort to weaken the pro-Western government in the small nation situated between Ukraine and European Union member Romania, and where the Kremlin aims to regain influence. The cutoff was the result of Ukraine's refusal to extend a transit contract with Russian state gas giant Gazprom, as the West looks to deny Moscow revenue used to fund its war in Ukraine -- a move analysts say is a major blow to the Kremlin. Much of the gas supply was transported to Europe. Most countries have begun developing alternative sources of gas, although some -- notably Slovakia, Hungary, and Austria -- have said other means will drive up costs prohibitively. Moldova until recently got 80 percent of its electricity from Kurchugan, a power plant in Transdniester that had been fueled by Russian gas. Moldova's state-owned energy trader, Energocom, said it has successfully covered 100 percent of the country's electricity needs but that the halt in Russian gas supplies is causing shortages in the breakaway region. The Eastern European nation is expected to start importing more electricity from Romania this year, though prices are likely to be higher. Authorities have urged household consumers, businesses, and public institutions to conserve energy to help to help reduce the need to make purchases at high prices on the EU market. Even before the January 1 cutoff in gas supplies, Gazprom said on December 28 that it would cease gas deliveries to Moldova at the end of 2024 because of a dispute over debt. With reporting by Reuters and CNN Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/transdniester-power- cuts-russian-gas-cutoff-moldova-crisis/33263740.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Palestine 2: What is Known About Yemeni Missile That Can Beat Israeli Defenses Sputnik News 20250105 The Yemeni Ansar Allah (Houthi) movement has moved to put yet another dent in the reputation of Israel's air defenses by carrying out a missile strike against a power plant located in Haifa. For this attack, the Houthis used Palestine 2 hypersonic missile that, according to a statement issued by the movement on January 5, successfully reached its target. Here's what is currently known about this weapon: - Palestine 2 is a two-stage, solid-fuel missile domestically produced in Yemen - With its range estimated at about 2,150km, Palestine 2 can be considered a medium-range missile - Its warhead payload is believed to be about 500kg - Believed to possess top speed of about Mach 16 and maneuvering capability, Palestine 2 also ranks as a hypersonic missile - Most importantly, Palestine 2 proved capable of bypassing Israeli air defenses which Tel Aviv previously touted as practically unbeatable. Palestine 2 attacks on Israel: - On December 31, the Houthis announced a Palestine 2 missile strike against the Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv - On December 28, a Palestine 2 missile strike was launched against Israel's Nevatim air base in the Negev region - On December 16, an Israeli military target in the Tel Aviv suburb of Jaffa was hit by a Palestine 2 missile - On December 11, the Houthis declared that they hit an Israeli military site in Tel Aviv using a Palestine 2 missile Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russo-Ukraine War - 05 January 2025 - Day 1047 Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace. "To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal] The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that so far, there have been 177 combat clashes. For today, the Russian opponent made one missile strike with two missiles, 52 air strikes (77 CAB), used 930 kamikaze drones for impact. Conducted over 4,200 shelling positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements. In the Kharkiv direction, two Russian attacks repel Ukrainian warriors near Vovchanska. In the kupans komu direction, Russian forces during the day four times tried to advance near the new kruglyakivka, lozovoi and synkivka. All the attacks of the Russian opponent have already been repelled. In the Lymans komu direction the Russian zagarbnic ka army attacked 12 times in the areas of hope, tverdohlibovogo, zaricnogo, novosergiiivka and persotravnevogo. The three attacks are still going on. In the sivers komu direction, Ukrainian troops repelled one Russian attack in the area of bilogorivka. In the Kramators komu direction, the activity of the Russian enemy spilled into four combat clashes near the Time Yar, Stupochok and Predteciny. The battle is currently underway. In the Toretsky direction, seven clashes near Toretsk and Scherbinivka are ongoing, five Russian assaults Ukrainian defenders stopped in the areas of Toretsky and Crimea. Russian forces tried to infiltrate Ukrainian defense 50 times in the Intercession direction. Since the beginning of the day, the Russian occupiers attacked in the areas of the settlements of Elizavetivka, Vozdvizhenko, Mirolyubivka, Ray, Lisivka, Novoy Trud, Pietscni, Solone, Novovasilivka, Novoyelizavetivka and Yasenove. Thirty-one offensive action of theRussian opponent has been stopped by the Defense Forces, 19 attacks are ongoing so far. According to preliminary information, today Ukrainian soldiers damaged 300 Russian invaders in this direction, 130 of them - irrevocably. One tank, four BMPs, six units of occupant vehicles, one artillery system and 10 nuclear weapons were destroyed. Two artsystems, a car and a Russian tank were also damaged. In the Kurakhiv direction, Russian forces attacked Ukrainian positions near Slovyanka, Petropavlivka, Kurakhovoy and Dachny. At the moment, Ukrainian warriors repelled 22 attacks of the opponent, ongoing three more combat. In the Vremivskyi direction, Ukrainian troops repelled 13 Russian attacks near the settlements of Yantarne, Noviy Komar, Novodarivka and in the direction of Constantinople, the Defense Forces units repelled five of them, so far eight clashes are ongoing. Russian zagarbniki attacked Ukrainian positions once in the pridniprovsky direction. Received a hard cut, suffered a loss. Defense Forces of Ukraine continue to carry out operations in the Kursk region, at this time 44 confrontations are known, 35 of them have already been completed. The fights continue. In other directions, there have been no significant changes. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that in Kharkov direction, units of the Sever Group of Forces hit formations of one mechanised brigade of the AFU and two territorial defence brigades close to Volchansk, Olkhovatka, Zarubinka, and Liptsy (Kharkov region). The AFU losses were up to 40 troops, one 152-mm D-20 gun, and two 122-mm D-30 howitzers. One ammunition depot was destroyed. The Zapad Group of Forces' units improved the situation along the front line, inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of two mechanised brigades, one assault brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, one territorial defence brigade close to Dvurechnaya, Zapadnoye, Podoly, Kolesnikovka, Lozovaya, Zagryzovo (Kharkov region), and Torskoye (Donetsk People's Republic). Four counter-attacks of AFU assault detachments were repelled. The AFU losses were up to 450 troops, two infantry fighting vehicles, one Kozak armoured fighting vehicle, ten pickup trucks, five 122-mm D-30 howitzers, one UK-made 105-mm L-119 gun as well as one U.S.-made Bradley infantry fighting vehicle, one M113 armoured personnel carrier, 105-mm M101 and two M119 combat vehicles. One Khortitsa electronic warfare station was eliminated. The Yug Group of Forces' units improved the tactical situation and defeated formations of one motorised infantry brigade, two mechanised brigades, one airmobile brigade, and one infantry brigade of the AFU near Yantarnoye, Kirovo, Dalneye, Orekhovo-Vasilevka, Seversk, Grigorovka, Chasov Yar, and Kurakhovo (Donetsk People's Republic). Two counter-attacks launched by enemy assault detachments were repelled. The AFU losses were up to 230 troops and one pickup truck. The Tsentr Group of Forces' units continued to advance into the depths of enemy defences, inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of four mechanised brigades, one motorised infantry brigade, one jaeger brigade, one airmobile brigade, one assault battalion, one marine brigade, two territorial defence brigades, and two national guard brigades close to Shcherbinovka, Peschanoye, Novoaleksandrovka, Novoolenovka, Slavyanka, Novovasilevka, Dzerzhinsk, Lysovka, Dachenskoye, Zelyonoye, Ukrainka, Shevchenko, and Vozdvizhenka (Donetsk People's Republic). Ten AFU counter-attacks were repelled. The AFU losses were more than 410 troops, two German-made Leopard tanks, one infantry fighting vehicle, three U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carriers, three pickup trucks, one 152-mm Msta-B howitzer, two 152-mm D-20 guns, and one 122-mm Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system. Units of the Vostok Group of Forces continued advancing to the depth of enemy defences and inflicted losses on formations of two mechanised brigades of the AFU, one marine brigade, and three territorial defence brigades near Zelyonoye Pole, Neskuchnoye, Novy Komar, and Velikaya Novosyolka (Donetsk People's Republic). Two enemy counter-attacks were repelled. The AFU losses were up to 150 troops, one U.S.-made MaxxPro armoured fighting vehicle, four motor vehicles, one Polish-made 155-mm Krab self-propelled artillery system, one 152-mm D-20 gun, and one 122-mm D-30 howitzer. Units of the Dnepr Group of Forces captured more advantageous lines, defeated manpower and hardware of two infantry brigades of the AFU, two territorial defence brigades, and one national guard brigade close to Ponyatovka, Nikolskoye, and Antonovka (Kherson region). The AFU losses were up to 80 troops, one U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carrier, eight motor vehicles, one 152-mm Msta-B howitzer, and one 152-mm D-20 gun. Operational-Tactical Aviation, attack unmanned aerial vehicles, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces have engaged the infrastructure of military airfields as well as clusters of enemy manpower and military hardware in 137 areas. Fighter aviation of Russian Aerospace Forces shot down one MiG-29 aircraft of the Ukrainian Air Force. Air defence units shot down three French-made Hammer guided aerial bombs, one U.S.-made HIMARS MLRS projectile, and 174 fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles. In total, since the beginning of the special military operation, 652 aircraft, 283 helicopters, 39,453 unmanned aerial vehicles, 590 anti-aircraft missile systems, 20,234 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,506 MLRS combat vehicles, 20,207 field artillery guns and mortars, and 29,883 units of support military vehicles have been neutralised. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation also reported that the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue the operation to neutralise an enemy group, which broke into the territory of Kursk region. During the offensive, units of the Sever Group of Forces inflicted fire damage on formations of four mechanised brigades, four air assault brigades, one marine brigade, five territorial defence formations of the Armed Forces of Ukraine close to Daryino, Kurilovka, Nizhny Klin, Nikolayevo-Daryino, Aleksandriya, Leonidovo, Nikolskoye, Kozachaya Loknya, Malaya Loknya, Makhnovka, Melovaya, Staraya Sorochina, Novaya Sorochina, Russkoye Porechnoye, and Sudzha. Two counter-attacks launched by AFU assault detachments were repelled. At around 9 a.m. Moscow time, in order to stop the offensive by the Russian troops in Kursk direction, the enemy launched a counter-attack by an assault detachment consisting of two tanks, one counterobstacle vehicle, and 12 armoured fighting vehicles with paratroopers toward Berdin area. Artillery and aviation of the Sever Group of Forces defeated one AFU assault detachment. Two tanks, one counterobstacle vehicle, and seven armoured fighting vehicles were neutralised. The operation to neutralise the AFU units is in progress. Operational-Tactical and Army aviation and artillery inflicted fire damage on manpower and hardware of the enemy near Guyevo, Kruglenkoye, Martynovka, Lebedevka, Sverdlikovo, Zamostye, Viktorovka, Mikhailovka, Lokinskaya as well as Yunakovka, Belovody, Zhuravka, Vodolagi, Miropolye, and Basovka in Sumy region. Over the course of the day, the AFU losses were over 340 troops, four tanks, three infantry fighting vehicles, four armoured personnel carriers, 12 armoured fighting vehicles, 20 motor vehicles, and five mortars. Since the beginning of hostilities in Kursk region, the AFU losses amounted to more than 49,010 troops, 273 tanks, 209 infantry fighting vehicles, 153 armoured personnel carriers, 1,461 armoured fighting vehicles, 1,407 motor vehicles, 340 artillery guns, 44 MLRS launchers, including 13 of HIMARS and six of MLRS made by the USA, 16 anti-aircraft missile launchers, seven transport-loading vehicles, 88 EW stations, 13 counter-battery warfare radars, four air defence radars, 28 units of engineering and other materiel, including 14 counterobstacle vehicles, one UR-77 mine clearing vehicle, seven armoured recovery vehicles, and one command post vehicle. The operation to neutralise the AFU units is in progress. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Wang Yi kicks off Africa visit, continuing a 35-year tradition Global Times Trip eyes 'three-year action plan, to boost Global South cooperation' By Zhang Han and Li Yawei Published: Jan 05, 2025 09:47 PM Maintaining a 35-year tradition that the Chinese foreign minister visits Africa on the first overseas trip at the start of a year, Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and China's Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi is visiting Africa on a four-country trip to Namibia, the Republic of the Congo, Chad and Nigeria. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning announced the week-long visit from January 5 to 11 on Friday. Namibia, the Republic of the Congo, Chad and Nigeria are all China's friendly cooperation partners. The purpose of Foreign Minister Wang Yi's upcoming visit is to implement the outcomes of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Beijing Summit and deepen practical cooperation across the board for sustained and substantive growth of China-Africa relations, Mao said. Over the past 35 years, despite the ever-changing international situation, China-Africa relations have withstood various tests and the friendship has been strong and enduring, Song Wei, a professor from the School of International Relations and Diplomacy at Beijing Foreign Studies University, told the Global Times on Sunday. "Maintaining the tradition is a good reflection of China's continuous commitment to this friendship." The new year visit comes against the backdrop that during 2024, bilateral relations between China and all African countries having diplomatic ties with China were elevated to the level of strategic relations, and that the overall characterization of China-Africa relations was elevated to an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. This year will see the start of implementing the FOCAC Beijing Action Plan (2025-2027), and so the visit is of unique significance in regard to thorough planning and effective pushing forward the action plan, He Wenping, a director with the Institute of West Asian and African Studies under the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times on Sunday. According to the plan, China and Africa will in the next three years implement 10 partnership initiatives for joining hands to advance modernization for China and Africa. They cover the areas of mutual learning between civilizations, trade prosperity, industrial chain cooperation, connectivity, development cooperation, healthcare, rural revitalization and people's wellbeing, people-to-people exchanges, green development, and common security, according to Chinese Foreign Ministry. He Wenping mentioned several topics likely to be covered during Wang's visit, from infrastructure and energy cooperation to broader capacity building, in addition to the key pillar of trade relations. China has remained Africa's largest trading partner for 15th consecutive year, while the proportion of China-Africa trade in Africa's total foreign trade has steadily increased, the Xinhua News Agency reported. China has also given all least developed countries that have diplomatic relations with China, including 33 African countries, zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent tariff lines. The most urgent mission and top priority for African countries is development and that the China-proposed Global Development Initiative is well received in this continent, while the Global Security Initiative sheds light on how to tackle some regional issues and create a secured environment for development, He said. The expert said that strengthening China-Africa relations represents a way to guide the modernization process of the Global South. China and African countries are set to enhance cooperation of the Global South in international structures such as BRICS and G20, He said. Song believes China and Africa are key components and the foundation of the collective rise of the Global South. Comprehensive cooperation between China and Africa will inject growth momentum, further consolidate the consensus of the Global South and promote global governance toward a more just and democratic direction, Song said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Accident involving ALH MK-III helicopter of ICG at Porbandar India - Press Information Bureau Ministry of Defence Posted On: 05 JAN 2025 5:54PM by PIB Delhi An ALH MK-III helicopter of Indian Coast Guard (ICG) met with an accident at Porbandar Airport Runway in Gujarat at about 1215 hrs on January 05, 2025. The ICG helicopter, with two pilots and one aircrew diver, was on a routine training sortie. Immediately after the incident, the crew were recovered and shifted to Government Hospital, Porbandar, where they were declared brought dead. The reasons leading to the incident are being investigated by a Board of Inquiry. The mortal remains of the crew viz. Commandant (JG) Saurabh, Deputy Commandant SK Yadav and Manoj Pradhan Navik will be cremated as per service traditions and honour. *** SR/Savvy (Release ID: 2090353) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address FRENCH CARRIER STRIKE GROUP VISITS INDIA TO STRENGTHEN NAVAL TIES AND ENHANCE INTEROPERABILITY India - Press Information Bureau Ministry of Defence Posted On: 05 JAN 2025 4:30PM by PIB Delhi The French Carrier Strike Group, led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier FNS Charles de Gaulle and comprising other French naval ships, is visiting India from 03 - 09 Jan 25 with port call in Goa and Kochi. This visit aims to enhance interoperability, foster mutual understanding, and strengthen collaboration between the French Navy and the Indian Navy. In Goa, the French Carrier Strike Group is hosting a series of engagements, including a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) at sea with the Indian Navy's Western Fleet. The harbour phase in Goa features professional exchanges, cross-deck visits, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEE), and social engagements. Rear Admiral Jacques Mallard, Commander of the French Navy Strike Group, along with Rear Admiral Hugues Laine and Commanding Officers of the French naval ships, will interact with Rear Admiral Ajay D Theophilus, Flag Officer Commanding Goa Naval Area. Simultaneously, French naval ships FS Forbin and FS Alsace, also part of the Carrier Strike Group, are visiting Kochi. The visit includes professional interactions, cross-deck visits, and SMEEs, with Commanding Officers of the French ships meeting the senior leadership of the Southern Naval Command. These engagements are part of a broader initiative to strengthen ties between India and France, reaffirming their shared commitment to constructive collaboration and mutual growth in the maritime domain. **** VM/SPS (Release ID: 2090373) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address INS TUSHIL ARRIVES AT DAKAR, SENEGAL India - Press Information Bureau Ministry of Defence Posted On: 05 JAN 2025 1:46PM by PIB Delhi INS Tushil, Indian Navy's latest stealth frigate, as part of the ongoing operational deployment visited Port of Dakar, Senegal on 03 Jan 25. This visit will further bolster the existing ties with Senegal and enhance interaction between the navies of the two countries. INS Tushil, commanded by Captain Peter Varghese, will engage in various military and social engagements during the port call. This will include interactions with senior Senegalese military and government officials and showcasing the cutting-edge indigenous weapons, sensors, and equipment fit onboard. The ship will conduct interaction between subject matter experts from the two navies for mutually beneficial avenues and carry out training along with demonstrations. An invigorating session of Yoga is also planned for Senegalese enthusiasts. To showcase Indian culture, the ship will also organise social interaction onboard. On completion, the ship will participate in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) and joint patrol with the Senegalese Navy off the waters of the West African Coast. The exercise is aimed at furthering maritime cooperation between the two navies while enhancing regional security and promoting interoperability. The visit is another strong sign of the importance India attaches to its relations with Senegal and its quest to further strengthen the growing defence cooperation and friendly ties between the two nations. It will also provide an opportunity for both navies to learn from each other and explore new avenues of cooperation. **** VM/SPS (Release ID: 2090301) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Massive IRGC military drill underway in western Iran IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 5, 2025 Qasr-e Shirin, IRNA -- A large-scale military exercise, codenamed Great Prophet 19, continues for a second day in the western province of Kermanshah. The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) launched the drill on Saturday to enhance ground forces, equipment, and supplies deployment. Brigadier General Mohammad-Nazar Azimi, commander of the Najaf Ashraf Regional Headquarters of the IRGC Ground Force, said on Sunday that the primary objective of the exercise is to ensure the combat readiness of the elite unit. The drill will feature a diverse array of modern military equipment. The first phase is currently being conducted in the Oramanat and Ozgaleh regions of Kermanshah. The location chosen for the exercise holds significant importance due to its proximity to the western border, where hostile groups have previously attempted to pose security threats, Gen. Azimi emphasized. IRNA reported on Saturday that new military hardware will be tested during the maneuvers. 4353**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The 'State Breaker': Putin's Long Rule By Steve Gutterman January 05, 2025 Taking Russia's reins a quarter-century ago, Vladimir Putin said Russia had chosen democracy and vowed to protect basic freedoms he called the "fundamental elements of a civilized society." What went wrong? Here are some of the key developments in Russia over the past week and some of the takeaways going forward. 25 Years In Power What's remembered about Russia on New Year's Eve in 1999 is Boris Yeltsin's surprise announcement that he was stepping down and handing the presidency to his chosen successor, Vladimir Putin, a longtime Soviet KGB officer who had been prime minister since August and had cast off years of obscurity by leading Moscow in the brutal second war against Chechen separatists. Less often recalled is Putin's own address to the nation hours later -- the president's traditional New Year's Eve address. Reading it today is striking; Putin seems to signal that he plans to build something close to the opposite of the oppressive, authoritarian state he put in place over 25 years in power and counting. Russia had become "strong and independent" under Yeltsin, he said, a statement he has contradicted repeatedly over the next quarter-century, including in his annual press conference and Q&A session last month, when he claimed that Russia in 2000 had been headed for "a complete, total loss of our sovereignty" and that he had pulled it "back from the edge of the abyss." In the 1999 address, Putin also said that post-Soviet Russia "has opted for democracy and reform," and his main focus in the short speech was precisely the rights and freedoms critics say he has trampled over his long rule. "The state will stand firm to protect the freedom of speech, the freedom of conscience, the freedom of the mass media, ownership rights, these fundamental elements of a civilized society," he said, adding, "The state continues to uphold the safety of every Russian citizen." 'Sycophancy, Grandeur, Solitude, Distrust' A quarter-century later, those freedoms have been drastically curtailed, and the safety of the populace has been jeopardized by the war against Ukraine, which has wreaked untold death and destruction on a peaceful neighbor and, analysts say, has badly undermined Russian securityrather than improving it. Whether he meant what he said at the time is impossible to know; his KGB background may suggest he did not. But whatever Putin's intentions on the last day of 1999, it seems clear that he changed -- and was changed -- over 25 years as president or prime minister. "[T]he extraordinary experience of the ruler -- the daily life of sycophancy, grandeur, solitude, distrust -- in the Kremlin is so bizarre, so isolated, so dangerous that over the years, it molds, remakes and distorts the ruler," Simon Sebag Montefiore, a historian who has written books about rulers from the Romanov dynasty to Soviet dictator Josef Stalin, wrote in a post on X. Referring to Stalin, Putin, and others who ruled the country, Montefiore wrote that "once they wore the crown, its situation remade them." "Those who knew Putin in first term say he was different; he certainly presented himself as a moderate reformer but he also had to learn how to behave," he went on. "The awkward clumsiness of his reaction to the loss of the Kursk submarine couldn't be more different than the confident showman riding his steed through Siberian taiga or the masterful hucksterism of his annual press conference." The sinking of the Kursk in August 2000, early in Putin's first term, was one of a number of disasters, developments, and deeds that shaped Russia and his rule. A drastically abridged list of the others includes the Beslan hostage crisis in 2004, the Bolotnaya protests in 2011-12, and the Maidan in Ukraine -- the massive protests that pushed Moscow-friendly President Viktor Yanukovych from power in Kyiv in February 2014. The poisoning, prosecution, and prison death of opposition leader Aleksei Navalny is another. 'Increasingly Paranoid' Putin reacted to the Maidan by seizing the Crimean Peninsula and fomenting war in the Donbas region in an attempt to gain control of Ukraine. After that effort failed, he launched a full-scale invasion in February 2022, an unprovoked attack that continues nearly three years later. It didn't have to be this way, even given Putin's decision to return to the presidency Kremlin in 2012 after a stint as prime minister and his refusal to quit the Kremlin in 2024, a departure he avoided in advance by changing the constitution. The full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the spiraling clampdown in Russia, the mounting confrontation with the West: "None of it is foreordained," said analyst Mark Galeotti, an honorary professor at the UCL School of Slavonic and East European Studies. "It's not as if he couldn't actually have changed his policies at different times," Galeotti told RFE/RL, "but this is the trajectory he was on -- this increasingly suspicious, increasingly paranoid sense" that he faces threats from forces at home and abroad. Like Ivan IV, the 16th century tsar known as Ivan the Terrible, Putin "was a state builder at first and increasingly has been a state breaker," Galeotti said. At some point, he added, Putin "decided...his own ambitions were more important than the interests of his country." Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/years-of-putin-how-russia-changed- since-1999/33263792.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Dutch Special Envoy for Syria meets with interim government in Damascus Government of the Netherlands - Ministry of Foreign Affairs News item | 05-01-2025 The Netherlands' Special Envoy for Syria, Gijs Gerlag, visited Damascus on 2 and 4 January 2025. His programme included a meeting with the new interim government led by Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), during which Mr Gerlag passed on messages from the Minister of Foreign Affairs emphasising the need for an inclusive political transition and the protection of minorities. The special envoy's visit was also intended to obtain insight into the current situation in Syria, with a focus on security. 'The Netherlands believes an inclusive, Syrian-led political transition is key for sustainable stability in Syria,' foreign minister Caspar Veldkamp said. 'It is essential that Christian, Kurdish and other minority communities participate in this process and that human rights are respected. Through Mr Gerlag's visit, we are exploring how the Netherlands and the EU can support the process of political transition in Syria. Promoting stability in Syria also serves the Netherlands' interests, for instance, in regard to counterterrorism and the return of refugees. Our special envoy also conveyed that the Netherlands remains committed to achieving justice for the human rights violations that were perpetrated.' Mr Gerlag had meetings the Office of the UN Special Envoy to Syria; the office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR); the coordination platform for Damascus-based humanitarian NGO's (DINGO); and Christian religious leaders. Mr Gerlag's meeting with the interim government led by HTS was a first meeting to establish contact. There are currently no plans to open a Dutch embassy in Damascus. It remains to be seen how HTS and other groups will carve out a new administration. Together with likeminded countries, the Dutch government is examining how a process of inclusive and peaceful political transition in Syria can be supported. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel expanding occupation with deployments in Syria's Daraa after HTS rule Iran Press TV Sunday, 05 January 2025 11:35 AM The Israeli regime has deployed military reinforcements to the southwestern Syrian province of Daraa, in a clear indication of the illegal entity's plan to expand its occupation on the Arab country's soil after the fall of former president Bashar al-Assad and his government. Lebanon's al-Mayadeen television network said in a report late on Saturday that the Israeli occupation army had brought reinforcements to the village of Ma'ariya in the countryside of Daraa, located on the Syrian-Jordanian border. Citing unnamed sources, the Lebanese channel said the Israeli forces installed high concrete barriers and paved all the roads leading to their barracks. "The Israeli army has begun conducting armored patrols on the foothills at the base of the strategic Mount Hermon on the Syria-Lebanon border," the sources added. The regime has been conducting sporadic attacks on various areas in Syria since the country's former government was toppled by militants. Israel launched airstrikes on military targets near the port city of Latakia in northwestern Syria on Saturday. The regime's airstrikes had two days earlier targeted military sites south of Aleppo, causing massive explosions and fires in the area. The Lebanese television network reported on Thursday that the Israeli forces had reached the al-Mantara Dam in the Quneitra countryside, the largest dam in southern Syria, stressing that the occupying regime had seized control of the six most strategic bodies of water in the south. The occupation comes as Israeli news website Walla reported that, "Despite the pressure exerted by European parties on Israel, the political level directed the Israeli army to prepare for a long presence in Syrian territory." The Israeli regime has occupied some 600 kilometers of Syrian territory since the Assad government was toppled last month by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) militants. The militants took control of Damascus on December 8 and declared an end to Assad's rule in a surprise offensive that was launched from their stronghold in northwestern Syria, reaching the capital in less than two weeks. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Over 100 killed as US, Turkish proxies fight in Syria Iran Press TV Sunday, 05 January 2025 11:00 AM More than 100 militants have been killed over the last two days in northern Syria in fighting between Turkish-backed groups and US-backed Kurdish forces, a London-based war monitor says. Since Friday evening, clashes in several villages around the city of Manbij have left 101 dead, the so-called Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. The fatalities included 85 members of pro-Turkish groups and 16 from SDF militants, it added. In a statement, the SDF claimed it had repelled "all the attacks from Turkey's mercenaries supported by Turkish drones and aviation." Backed by US forces, the SDF controls vast areas of Syria's northeast and parts of Dayr al-Zawr province in the east following the withdrawal of government forces during the war that began in 2011. The group, which is regarded a US proxy, took control of much of the current territory, including Raqqa, after Daesh terrorists were evicted from the area. Mohammed al-Julani, the head of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) which currently rules Syria, has previously said the SDF would be integrated into the country's future army. The foreign ministers of Germany and France, visiting Damascus on behalf of the European Union this week, said that Kurds must be involved in the country's transition if Damascus wanted European support. Both Germany and France have a history of training Kurdish militants and providing them with weapons. Last month, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said foreign countries should withdraw their support for Kurdish militants in Syria. In a statement released by his office, Erdogan said there was no longer any reason for outside support for Kurdish militants from the People's Protection Units (YPG), which form the backbone of the US-backed SDF. Ankara considers the SDF an extension of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which has fought a decades-long insurgency in southeastern Turkey and is banned as a terrorist organization by the government. The Turkish military regularly launches strikes against Kurdish militants in Syria and neighboring Iraq, accusing them of being PKK-linked. Turkey's proxies captured the cities of Manbij and Tal Rifaat in northern Aleppo province from the SDF when militants and Takfiri terrorists launched an onslaught on November 27 that overthrew Syrian president Bashar al-Assad just 11 days later. Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guler recently announced that Ankara intends to expel SDF militants from the northern Syrian cities of Kobani and Raqqa, disarm them, and transfer their weapons to the HTS administration. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Another Knox-class frigate bought from U.S. to be decommissioned soon: Source ROC Central News Agency 01/05/2025 03:10 PM Taipei, Jan. 5 (CNA) Another Knox-class frigate Taiwan purchased from the United States that has been in use by Taiwan's Navy for nearly three decades will be decommissioned soon, a military source told CNA on Saturday. The Lan Yang () (FFG-935), a Chi Yang-class () frigate belonging to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Navy that began service in Taiwan in 1995, will be decommissioned sometime in mid-January in a ceremony in Kaohsiung, according to the unnamed source. The decommissioned frigate will then be stripped of its weapon and radar systems before being used by the Navy for target practice, the source said. The Lan Yang is the third Chi Yang-class frigate -- formerly U.S. Knox-class frigates -- to be decommissioned after being used by Taiwan's Navy for around 30 years. She was formerly in service in the U.S. as the USS Joseph Hewes (FF-1078). In the 1990s, the U.S. agreed to transfer eight Knox-class frigates to Taiwan's Navy. They were later reclassified as eight Chi Yang-class frigates before beginning their service in the Navy between 1993 and 1999. The Navy previously retired two Chi Yang-class frigates, the Chi Yang (FFG-932) and Hai Yang (FFG-936), on May 2015, because Taiwan acquired two new frigates from the U.S., and it is too costly to keep the aging Knox-class frigates operational. No plans have been announced, however, for decommissioning the other five frigates in service. (By Wu Su-wei and Joseph Yeh) Enditem/ls NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC Ministry of National Defense 2025/01/05 PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan 1.Date 6 to 6 a.m. (UTC+8) Saturday to Sunday, Jan. 4-5 2.PLA activities 5 PLA aircraft and 6 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 4 of the aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's northern and southwestern ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and employed CAP aircraft, Navy vessels, and coastal missile systems in response to the detected activities. PLA activities 1 PLA activities 2 Diagram of PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NATO to Urge UK to Boost Air Defense Spending Over Country's Vulnerability Sputnik News 20250105 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - NATO will urge the United Kingdom to sharply increase spending on air and missile defense amid concerns that the British military will not be able to repel attacks on cities and outposts in 15 years, the media reported, citing sources. According to the publication, NATO is expected to formally request it in 2025, when the alliance will provide its members with updated requirements for its armed forces, explaining where they need to prioritize work to strengthen their collective defense. As military sources told the newspaper, a number of NATO members have recently expressed disappointment that London was not doing enough to protect Europe from long-range missiles. A draft NATO plan called Capability Target 2025 will raise the need for the UK to invest in land-based air defence systems, to protect critical national infrastructure such as nuclear power plants and military bases, the newspaper said. Senior defense sources have warned that the UK "is in peril now" and that within 15 years a ballistic missile "will be able to hit Britain from anywhere in the world," it said. An independent commission led by former NATO Secretary General George Robertson and former UK's Joint Forces Command chief Richard Barrons, working on the Strategic Defense Review, is expected to focus on the need for new investment, it said. Experts have told the media that the UK had failed to invest in missile defense systems for decades. The newspaper interviewed around a dozen military and defense experts who described growing threats to Britain and its overseas military installations as some countries advance in the field development of ballistic missiles. Thus, according to the media sources, British ships could be attacked by more modern ballistic missiles if they are transferred to players such as the Yemeni Houthis. In addition, British overseas bases and intelligence facilities, including in Cyprus, are threatened by "non-state actors and terrorists," the publication said. It is also noted that groups in war-torn countries of the Middle East and North Africa, for example, in Libya, could potentially strike London if they received long-range missiles. As military insiders told the newspaper, the British Navy insists that the government, as part of the strategic defense review, agree on funding for the replacement of destroyers to protect Britain from an attack using ballistic missiles. According to the sources, the UK spends only 1.6% of GDP on conventional defense, excluding obligations such as nuclear deterrence. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine reportedly to receive French fighter jets; diverse weapons from different countries put pressure on logistics, says expert Global Times By Shen Sheng Published: Jan 05, 2025 11:10 PM Ukrainian media the New Voice of Ukraine, citing a report by French air defense industry site Avions Legendaires, stated on Sunday that Ukraine's Air Force is set to receive its first three Dassault Aviation Mirage 2000-5F fighter jets from France in January. The first three jets could arrive by January 20, 2025, with some sources even speculating they are already in Ukraine and are being used for training flights. Around 10 aircraft of this type are expected to be delivered, according to the New Voice of Ukraine. Dassault Aviation Mirage 2000-5F fighter jets could enhance Ukraine's ground attack capabilities but will have limited effectiveness in air combat, Zhang Junshe, a Chinese military expert, told the Global Times. He said the aircraft is equipped with modern avionics and radar systems, and is capable of carrying SCALP-EG stealth cruise missiles and Hammer precision-guided bombs. However, Western supplies of fighter jets and missiles are still falling short of Ukraine's needs, Zhang noted, adding that diverse weapon systems from multiple countries strain Ukraine's logistics, as different jets require specific parts and maintenance expertise. Sun Xiuwen, an associate professor at the Institute for Central Asian Studies at Lanzhou University, shares the same view. Sun said that while Western aid has strengthened Ukraine's combat capabilities, issues with quantity, logistics and training limit its overall effectiveness, making it difficult to decisively change the course of the conflict. Western states are tiring in their support for Ukraine and increasingly hoping for some form of conflict resolution, Finland's foreign minister warned previously, according to a Financial Times report in October 2024. Sun noted that public support for long-term aid in Europe is waning, potentially weighing on future assistance, and a new US government would also bring significant uncertainty. US President-elect Donald Trump previously said it was "stupid" for Biden to let Ukraine use American long-range weapons to strike deeper into Russian territory, according to AP news on December 16, 2024. Trump also said that Ukraine should "probably" prepare to receive less aid from the US, according to an interview with NBC on December 8, 2024. Ukraine has launched a fresh offensive in Russia's Kursk region, according to the Russian Defense Ministry. Officials in Ukraine have also suggested an operation is under way, BBC reported on Sunday. Russian units have repelled two Ukrainian counterattacks over 24 hours in the borderline Kursk Region, the TASS reported, citing the Russian Defense Ministry. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Fierce Clashes In Kursk Region As Ukraine Launches Fresh Drive By RFE/RL's Russian Service January 05, 2025 The Ukrainian military has launched a new assault in Russia's Kursk region, according to the Russian Defense Ministry and battlefield reports, with Kyiv stating that "combat clashes" were under way in the region The Russian Defense Ministry said in a January 5 statement that "at about 9 a.m. Moscow time, the Ukrainian armed forces launched a counterattack to stop the advance of Russian troops in the Kursk direction." The statement insisted that Russian troops were "continuing to defeat" Ukrainian forces. Late on January 5, Ukraine's General Staff said there had been 44 armed battles in the region, at least nine of which were still under way as night fell, although it did not specifically confirm that a new offensive had been launched. "The Defense Forces of Ukraine continue the operation in the Kursk region," it said on Telegram. "At this time, 44 combat clashes are known, 35 of them have already been completed. Fighting continues," the General Staff added. The scale of the current offensive and whether it will lead to changes along the front line remains unclear, but some Ukrainian officials have also suggested that a fresh push is under way. The head of Ukraine's presidential office, Andriy Yermak, said there "was good news from the Kursk Region" and that Russia was "getting what it deserves." Andriy Kovalenko, the head of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council's Center for Countering Disinformation, also commented on the development and said that Russian forces in Kursk had been "attacked in several directions, which came as a surprise to them." "The Defense Forces are at work," he wrote. Ukrainian troops first pushed across the border in a surprise incursion on August 6 and have since resisted Russian attempts to fully expel them. More recently, Russian forces, supported by the introduction of thousands of North Korean soldiers, have advanced but failed to eject Ukrainian troops entirely. The offensive has reportedly been launched from the district center of Sudzha, which has been under Ukrainian control since August, in the direction of Bolshoye Soldatskoye, which lies some 70 kilometers from Kursk city, the region's administrative center. In its statement, the Russian Defense Ministry said it had repelled a Ukrainian assault near the village of Berdin, some 15 kilometers from the border. According to Russian pro-war accounts on Telegram that closely follow and document frontline developments, the attack is being carried out with armored vehicles, mine-clearing vehicles, and electronic warfare systems, which are said to be successfully countering Russian drones. Videos online purported to show columns of Ukrainian military vehicles speeding across snow-covered land in the Kursk region. The MIG Rossyy channel claimed that the Ukrainian military has had "local successes," saying that "these are not sluggish maneuvers of small sabotage groups, but a full-scale attempt to attack." RFE/RL has not been able to independently verify the reports. About half of the land seized in the initial offensive has been recaptured since August, but Kyiv still holds Sudzha and about 500 square kilometers of Russian territory. In November, Ukraine reported its forces had engaged in combat with North Korean soldiers in the Kursk region and Ukrainian officials have claimed that North Korean forces are suffering heavy losses. The introduction of North Korean troops came following Ukraine's cross-border offensive, which Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned as a "major provocation." The January attacks launched by Kyiv come as its forces are reportedly suffering from manpower shortages and have been losing ground in eastern Ukraine. The development also comes ahead of the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on January 20, who has previously said that ending the war in Ukraine would be a first-day priority. Keith Kellogg, the Trump administration's incoming envoy for Ukraine and Russia, has been tasked with leading negotiations to end the war and also said that potential cease-fire talks could begin once Trump takes office. In a December interview with Fox News, Kellogg said that the war could "be resolved in the next few months." During a January 2 interview broadcast on Ukrainian television, Zelenskiy said that operations in Kursk play a key role in countering any international perceptions that Kyiv is losing the war. "The Kursk operation changed everything. It was an important step," he said. Meanwhile, in an interview with U.S. podcaster Lex Fridman, Zelenskiy said security guarantees for Ukraine in any future peace deal would only be effective if provided by the United States and that he hopes to meet Trump soon after his inauguration. "Without the United States, security guarantees are not possible. I mean these security guarantees that can prevent Russian aggression," he said. With reporting by RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service and dpa Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukrainian-army- launches-assault-kursk-region-january-5-2024/33263954.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Comment by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on the drone attack in the DPR killing a Russian journalist and wounding his colleagues 5 January 2025 00:40 4-05-01-2025 On January 4, Izvestiya newspaper freelance correspondent Alexander Martemyanov was killed in a targeted drone attack by the Kiev regime militants, which also left at least another four Russian journalists wounded to varying degrees of severity, including RIA Novosti reporters Mikhail Kevkhiev and Maxim Romanenko. A vehicle carrying a team of war correspondents was heading back to Donetsk after filming the effects of the shelling of civilian facilities in Gorlovka by Ukrainian neo-Nazis when it was hit by a kamikaze drone loaded with explosives. The tragedy occurred far from the line of contact. The media representatives were intentionally selected as targets for a deadly attack, which is also evidenced by the testimonies of its survivors. We express our deep condolences to Alexander Martemyanov's family and friends, the editorial staff of the Izvestiya Multimedia Information Centre, and all his colleagues who are currently performing their professional duty in the zone of the special military operation. We wish a speedy recovery to those wounded in this atrocious terrorist attack. The deliberate killing of Russian journalists is yet another brutal crime in a string of violent atrocities committed by the Zelensky regime, which has openly resorted to terrorist methods to eliminate its ideological opponents. The Kiev clique is accountable for the deaths of countless innocent citizens, people of civilian professions, including journalists and war correspondents who became victims of intentional attacks carried out as part of the terror campaign that Bandera inhumane followers unleashed against Russia's civilian population as well as their own nation. The idea of the total impunity and permissiveness that the Ukrobanderite murderers of unarmed journalists revel in stems directly from the policy pursued by relevant international bodies such as the OHCHR, UNESCO and the OSCE, which have chosen to intentionally ignore the Kiev regime's crimes. This politically biased stance by multilateral institutions has peaked with a recent draft report by UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay on the safety of journalists and the issue of impunity, which failed to mention a single Russian journalist killed by Ukrainian militants. Despite the rejection of approval of the report, which grossly distorts the actual situation and is full of statistical manipulations, the UNESCO leadership and its head have yet to take a single step that would indicate a radical revision of this fundamentally flawed and vicious practice. This makes the leader of this global organisation a direct accomplice and instigator of the terrorist attacks. We demand that this brutal murder of a Russian war correspondent receive a proper response from Audrey Azoulay in accordance to her mandate. We expect all other human rights organisations and bodies to express a similarly strong denunciation of this horrific act. Attempts to hide behind vague excuses and broad statements cannot be regarded as an adequate response from the relevant authorities; international officials who advocate for human rights must explicitly point to the perpetrators of these killings. All those responsible for the crime against Russian journalists will be identified to face a just and inevitable punishment. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Defence Ministry reports on repelling AFU attempt to invade Russian territory in Kursk region (12:00 5 January 2025) 05.01.2025 The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue the operation to neutralise an enemy group, which broke into the territory of Kursk region. During the offensive, units of the Sever Group of Forces inflicted fire damage on formations of four mechanised brigades, four air assault brigades, one marine brigade, five territorial defence formations of the Armed Forces of Ukraine close to Daryino, Kurilovka, Nizhny Klin, Nikolayevo-Daryino, Aleksandriya, Leonidovo, Nikolskoye, Kozachaya Loknya, Malaya Loknya, Makhnovka, Melovaya, Staraya Sorochina, Novaya Sorochina, Russkoye Porechnoye, and Sudzha. Two counter-attacks launched by AFU assault detachments were repelled. At around 9 a.m. Moscow time, in order to stop the offensive by the Russian troops in Kursk direction, the enemy launched a counter-attack by an assault detachment consisting of two tanks, one counterobstacle vehicle, and 12 armoured fighting vehicles with paratroopers toward Berdin area. Artillery and aviation of the Sever Group of Forces defeated one AFU assault detachment. Two tanks, one counterobstacle vehicle, and seven armoured fighting vehicles were neutralised. The operation to neutralise the AFU units is in progress. Operational-Tactical and Army aviation and artillery inflicted fire damage on manpower and hardware of the enemy near Guyevo, Kruglenkoye, Martynovka, Lebedevka, Sverdlikovo, Zamostye, Viktorovka, Mikhailovka, Lokinskaya as well as Yunakovka, Belovody, Zhuravka, Vodolagi, Miropolye, and Basovka in Sumy region. Over the course of the day, the AFU losses were over 340 troops, four tanks, three infantry fighting vehicles, four armoured personnel carriers, 12 armoured fighting vehicles, 20 motor vehicles, and five mortars. Since the beginning of hostilities in Kursk region, the AFU losses amounted to more than 49,010 troops, 273 tanks, 209 infantry fighting vehicles, 153 armoured personnel carriers, 1,461 armoured fighting vehicles, 1,407 motor vehicles, 340 artillery guns, 44 MLRS launchers, including 13 of HIMARS and six of MLRS made by the USA, 16 anti-aircraft missile launchers, seven transport-loading vehicles, 88 EW stations, 13 counter-battery warfare radars, four air defence radars, 28 units of engineering and other materiel, including 14 counterobstacle vehicles, one UR-77 mine clearing vehicle, seven armoured recovery vehicles, and one command post vehicle. The operation to neutralise the AFU units is in progress. Department for Media Affairs and Information NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Aerospace Forces Down Ukraine's MiG-29 Fighter Sputnik News 20250105 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Russian Ministry of Defense reported on the progress of the special military operation and the key achievements of the Russian army in the last 24 hours. The Russian aerospace forces have shot down a MiG-29 aircraft of the Ukrainian air force, the Russian Ministry of Defense said on Sunday. "The Russian aerospace forces' fighter aircraft has downed a MiG-29 aircraft of the Ukrainian air force," the ministry said in a statement. Ukraine has lost up to 1,360 soldiers in battles with Russian forces over the past day, the ministry added. Kiev has lost up to 450 servicepeople in clashes with Russia's Zapad group of forces, which also repelled four Ukrainian counterattacks, the ministry said in a daily bulletin. Russia's Tsentr group of forces has eliminated over 410 Ukrainian soldiers, two Leopard tanks, and repelled 17 counterattacks, while Russia's Yug group eliminated up to 230 Ukrainian troops, the ministry said. At the same time, Russia's Sever group of forces has inflicted damage on the Ukrainian military in the Kharkov direction, eliminating up to 40 Ukrainian soldiers and an ammo depot, the ministry added. Moreover, Russia's Vostok group of troops has eliminated up to 150 Ukrainian servicepeople and a Krab self-propelled howitzer over the past day, the ministry said. Russia's Dnepr group of forces has taken more favorable battlefield positions and eliminated up to 80 Ukrainian servicepeople, the ministry concluded. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Investigators Open Criminal Case Over Drone Attack on Russian Journalists in DPR Sputnik News 20250105 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - A criminal case has been opened into the death of Izvestia newspaper correspondent Alexander Martemyanov and the wounding of four other Russian journalists in a drone attack in the Donetsk People's Republic, the Russian Investigative Committee told Sputnik on Sunday. On Saturday evening, an FPV drone hit a civilian car far from the contact line on the Donetsk-Gorlovka highway. Martemyanov was killed, while Sputnik correspondent Maxim Romanenko was hospitalized with a concussion, and his colleague Mikhail Kevkhiev received a mild concussion and did not need hospitalization. Donetsk-based publication Bloknot employees Svetlana Larina and Izabella Liberman, who were injured in the attack, received medical assistance and would continue their treatment on an outpatient basis. "The Main Investigation Department of the Russian Investigative Committee has opened a criminal case on the basis of the crimes provided for in Articles 105 and 167 of the Russian Criminal Code (murder and attempted murder of two or more persons; intentional damage to property)," the investigative committee said. The committee added that it was taking all possible measures to identify and hold criminally responsible individuals from among the Ukrainian armed formations involved in the crime. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Military Says Ukraine's ATACMS Attack on Belgorod Region Will Not Go Unanswered Sputnik News 20250105 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Russian Defense Ministry said on Saturday that it would respond to the attempt by the Ukrainian armed forces to strike Russia's Belgorod Region with ATACMS missiles. "On 3 January, the Kiev regime attempted to deliver a missile strike by US-made ATACMS operational-tactical missiles at Belgorod region. In the course of an air defence battle, S-400 SAM [surface-to-air missile] system and Pantsir-SM crews shot down all the ATACMS missiles. This actions of the Kiev regime supported by Western curators won't go unanswered," the ministry said in a statement. Allowing Kiev to strike deep into Russia with West-supplied weapons directly involves NATO countries in the conflict, Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously said. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NEW YORK, Jan. 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of common stock of Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) between February 8, 2024 and October 29, 2024, both dates inclusive (the Class Period) and those who purchased Chipotle call options or sold put options during the Class Period, of the important January 10, 2025 lead plaintiff deadline in the securities class action first filed by the Firm. SO WHAT: If you purchased Chipotle securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Chipotle class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=30587 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than January 10, 2025. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs Bar. Many of the firms attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers. DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants throughout the Class Period made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Chipotles portion sizes were inconsistent and left many customers dissatisfied with Chipotles offerings; (2) in order to address the issue and retain customer loyalty, Chipotle would have to ensure more generous portion sizes, which would increase cost of sales; and (3) as a result, defendants statements about its business, operations, and prospects were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages. To join the Chipotle class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=30587 call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investors ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm or on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. ------------------------------- Contact Information: Laurence Rosen, Esq. Phillip Kim, Esq. The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. 275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor New York, NY 10016 Tel: (212) 686-1060 Toll Free: (866) 767-3653 Fax: (212) 202-3827 case@rosenlegal.com www.rosenlegal.com VICTORIA, Seychelles, Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- XT.COM proudly announces the listing of DIONE Protocol (DIONE), a revolutionary blockchain project that combines 100% renewable energy with cutting-edge technology to power decentralized ecosystems. With the launch of the DIONE/USDT trading pair in the Innovation Zone (DeFi), traders now have access to a token that pioneers the integration of sustainability, AI, and decentralization. This collaboration marks a significant step forward for both DIONE and XT.COM as they redefine the role of blockchain technology in addressing global challenges. A Paradigm Shift: The DIONE Protocol DIONE Protocol sets itself apart as a visionary project, introducing the concept of the Internet of Energy. By leveraging 100% renewable energy, it tackles environmental challenges while ensuring the scalability and efficiency of its Layer-1 blockchain. The project doesnt stop at sustainability. DIONE incorporates AI-driven energy solutions to optimize distribution and usage, creating a smarter and more efficient energy ecosystem. The integration of Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePIN) further supports seamless communication and collaboration across decentralized systems. Open ecosystems are at the core of DIONEs philosophy, fostering transparency and inclusivity for developers, communities, and enterprises. This holistic approach positions DIONE as a game-changer in blockchain and energy technology. What Makes DIONE Unique? Sustainability at Its Core: DIONE is powered entirely by renewable energy, addressing global environmental concerns without compromising on performance. AI for Energy Optimization: By harnessing artificial intelligence, the protocol ensures smarter energy management and real-time efficiency. DePIN Infrastructure: The inclusion of decentralized physical networks bridges the gap between the digital and physical realms. Open Ecosystem Development: The protocol empowers communities and developers to create decentralized applications and solutions on a transparent, accessible platform. XT.COM and DIONE: A Shared Vision The listing of DIONE on XT.COM represents a shared vision of sustainable innovation and decentralization. For DIONE, this partnership provides a platform to engage with a global audience, enhancing its reach and adoption. For XT.COM, DIONE exemplifies the type of transformative project that aligns with our commitment to driving blockchain evolution. The DIONE/USDT trading pair, now live in the Innovation Zone (DeFi), highlights XT.COMs dedication to offering unique and impactful projects that combine cutting-edge technology with real-world solutions. Dive Deeper into DIONE To explore the transformative capabilities of DIONE Protocol, visit: These resources offer detailed insights into how DIONE is pioneering the future of energy and decentralization. About XT.COM Founded in 2018, XT.COM is a trusted cryptocurrency exchange serving a global user base of over 40 million. Our platform supports a diverse range of trading options, including spot trading, margin trading, futures, and an extensive NFT marketplace. XT.COMs mission is to empower users with access to innovative projects like DIONE, providing opportunities to explore the forefront of blockchain technology. Trade DIONE Today The DIONE/USDT trading pair is live, giving traders access to a blockchain project that seamlessly integrates sustainability, AI, and decentralization. Risk Disclosure: Trading cryptocurrencies involves risk. Please conduct thorough research and trade responsibly. Join XT.COM and DIONE Protocol in shaping the future of decentralized energy solutions! XT Exchange Bella Wei Listing@xt.com The DIONE Protocol Brandon@dioneprotocol.com Disclaimer: This content is provided by XT exchange. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider.The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/67fb3b9e-f804-4bba-9a53-c9188af589e7 TORNOTO, Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- White Gold Corp. (TSX.V: WGO, OTCQX: WHGOF, FRA: 29W) (the "Company") is pleased to announce it has filed a technical report in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects to update the Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) on its 100% owned flagship White Gold Project (the Project). The technical report entitled 2024 Technical Report for the White Gold Project, Dawson Range, Yukon, Canada and dated January 3, 2025 (effective date October 28, 2024) has been prepared for the Company by Dr. Gilles Arseneau, P.Geo. of ARSENEAU Consulting Services Inc. (ACS). The technical report is available on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) under the Companys issuer profile. The Project is located (Figure 1) approximately 95 km south of Dawson City in west-central Yukon, Canada and is located 33 km north from the advanced Coffee project owned by Newmont Corporation with Indicated Resources of 2.14 Moz at 1.23 g/t Au, and Inferred Resources of 0.23 Moz at 1.01 g/t Au(2), and 58 km northwest from Western Copper and Gold Corporations Casino project, which has Measured and Indicated Resources of 7.6 billion lb Cu and 14.5 Moz Au and Inferred Resources of 3.3 billion lb Cu and 6.6 Moz Au(3). The updated mineral resource includes a significant increase in total gold ounces, including an 18.5% increase in inferred resources and a 4.3% increase in indicated resources (see Company News Release dated November 19, 2024). The White Gold project now comprises 1,203,000 ounces of gold in the Indicated Resource category (17.7 million tonnes averaging 2.12 g/t Au) and 1,116,600 ounces of gold in the Inferred Resource category (24.5 million tonnes averaging 1.42 g/t Au) at US$2,000/oz gold. The gold resources at the White Gold Project are near surface, almost entirely captured within open pits, and remain open for expansion in multiple directions with additional opportunities to increase total resources via targets within close proximity. Additional increases to the size of the resource may also be possible through an ongoing analysis of the resource block model and by capturing additional ounces hosted within the Target for Further Exploration area which hosts an additional estimated 10 12 million tonnes grading between 1 2 g/t Au. These results form part of the Companys work program supported by strategic partners including Agnico Eagle Mines Limited and Kinross Gold Corporation. The filing of the updated MRE technical report on our flagship White Gold Project represents another significant milestone on the continued growth and advancement of our deposits, which now ranks as one of the highest-grade undeveloped open-pittable gold deposits in Canada. Several opportunities exist to continue to expand the resource size through further drilling, nearby targets and optimization of the resource block model and the significant Target for Further Exploration area which remains largely underexplored. We look forward to continuing to unlock the gold and critical mineral endowment of our prospective district scale land package in a tier 1 jurisdiction which has such a prolific history and prospectivity stated David DOnofrio, Chief Executive Officer. Highlights: 17.660 million tonnes of Indicated Resources averaging 2.12 grams per tonne gold for 1.203 million ounces of gold, representing 52% of total resources. 24.472 million tonnes of Inferred Resources averaging 1.42 grams per tonne gold for 1.117 million ounces of gold, representing 48% of total resources. Inferred and Indicated Mineral Resources have increased by 18.5% and 4.3% respectively, compared to the previous 2023 MRE ( 1) 97.5% of the resources are near surface and within an open-pit. Indicated Resources of 1.201 million ounces of gold averaging 2.12 grams per tonne gold (an increase of 6.7%) and open-pit Inferred Resources of 1.061 million ounces of gold averaging 1.38 grams per tonne gold (an increase of 24.4%). Mineralization at the Golden Saddle, Arc, Ryans Surprise and VG deposits all remain open along strike and down dip to further expand the deposits and in addition to multiple underexplored targets in close proximity. The project also hosts an additional estimated 10 12 million tonnes grading between 1 2 g/t Au of material classified as a Target for Further Exploration which has not been included in the current resource which may further increase the size of the resource and is currently being evaluated in this regard. The Company is also currently evaluating additional opportunities to further increase the size of the resources by optimizing the block model and wireframes of the Golden Saddle and Arc deposits to add additional tonnage. Additional results from the Companys work program to be released in due course Mineral Resource Estimate Details Table 1. White Gold Project, Yukon Territory, Mineral Resource Statement, ACS October 28, 2024. Area Type Classification Cut-off (g/t) Tonnes (000's) Grade (g/t) Contained Gold (oz) Golden Saddle Open Pit Indicated 0.35 16,954 2.16 1,178,500 Inferred 5,396 1.45 250,900 Underground Indicated 2.3 23 2.77 2,100 Inferred 382 3.06 37,500 Arc Open Pit Indicated 0.35 683 1.02 22,400 Inferred 6,781 1.09 236,700 Underground Inferred 2.3 47 3.00 4,600 Ryan Open Pit Inferred 0.35 5,499 1.57 278,300 Underground Inferred 2.3 127 3.19 13,100 QV Open Pit Inferred 0.35 6,240 1.47 295,500 All Deposits Open Pit Indicated 0.35 17,637 2.12 1,200,900 All Deposits Open Pit Inferred 23,916 1.38 1,061,400 All Deposits Underground Indicated 2.3 23 2.84 2,100 All Deposits Underground Inferred 556 3.09 55,200 All Deposits Total Indicated 17,660 2.12 1,203,000 All Deposits Total Inferred 24,472 1.42 1,116,600 Mineral Resources which are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues. The Inferred Mineral Resource in this estimate has a lower level of confidence than that applied to an Indicated Mineral Resource and must not be converted to a Mineral Reserve. It is reasonably expected that the majority of the Inferred Mineral Resource could be upgraded to an Indicated Mineral Resource with continued exploration. The Mineral Resources in this report were estimated using the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM), CIM Standards on Mineral Resources and Reserves, Definitions and Guidelines prepared by the CIM Standing Committee on Reserve Definitions and adopted by the CIM Council. Open pittable resources are constrained by GEOVIA Whittle optimized pit shells using a 0.35 g/t Au cut-of grade and are considered to have reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction, assuming a gold price of US$2,000 per ounce, a C$:US$ exchange rate of 0.75. an open pit mining cost of CDN$3.25 per tonne, a processing and G&A cost of CDN$27.50 per tonne milled, and gold recoveries of 92% for Golden Saddle, and VG, along with 85% for Arc and Ryans Surprise. Underground resources assume a mining cost of CDN$120/tonne. The following bulk density values for mineralized material were used: Golden Saddle (2.62 2.65 t/m3), Arc (2.55 t/m3), Ryans Surprise (2.63 t/m3) and VG (2.65 t/m3). High-grade gold assay values have been capped as follows: Golden Saddle and Arc (8 18 g/t Au), Ryans Surprise (9 g/t Au) and VG (3 10 g/t Au). The Statement of Estimates of Mineral Resources has been compiled by Mr. Gilles Arseneau, Ph.D.,P.Geo, of ARSENEAU Consulting Services (ACS). Mr. Arseneau has sufficient experience that is relevant to the style of mineralization and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity that he has undertaken to qualify as a Qualified Person as defined in the CIM Standards of Disclosure. All numbers are rounded. Overall numbers may not be exact due to rounding. The current MRE for the White Gold project was carried out by Arseneau Consulting Services (ACS) of Vancouver, B.C. and is reported in accordance with the guidelines of the Canadian Securities Administrators National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101) and has been estimated in conformity with generally accepted Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) Estimation and Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve Best Practices guidelines. Mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. The MRE presents updated estimates for the Golden Saddle, Arc, Ryans Surprise and VG deposits (Figures 2-5). The updated MRE was prepared using a block model approach using ordinary kriging interpolation for the Golden Saddle, Arc and VG deposits and inverse distance squared (ID2) interpolation for the Ryans Surprise deposit. Block model sizes varied between deposits as follows: Golden Saddle and Arc (10 m); Ryans Surprise (5 10 m); and VG (10 20 m). GEMS 6.8.4 software was used for generating gold mineralization solids, a topography surface, and resource estimation. Statistical analysis and resource validations were performed using non-commercial software and with Sage2001. Near surface resources were constrained using GEOVIA Whittle pit optimization software. Pit slopes in rock were assumed at 50 and the MRE assumes a long-term gold price of US$2,000 per ounce. Gold recoveries used were 92% for the Golden Saddle and VG deposits, and 85% for the Arc and Ryans Surprise deposits. Gold recoveries are based on metallurgical testwork results for the Golden Saddle and Arc deposits and are assumed for the Ryans Surprise and VG deposits based on their close similarities to the Arc and Golden Saddle deposits, respectively. Mineralization on portions of both the Golden Saddle and Arc deposits is known to extend beyond the limits of the current resource estimate, however, the mineralization in these areas did not meet the criteria to be classified as Mineral Resources. Based on drilling at Golden Saddle and current geologic models, there is an estimated 10 12 million additional tonnes grading between 1 2 g/t Au of material classified as a Target for Further Exploration (TFFE). The reader should be cautioned that the potential quantity and grade of the TFFE is conceptual in nature. There has been insufficient drilling to define a mineral resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the target being advanced to a mineral resource. These zones form more continuous mineralized units at US$ 2,000/oz gold and the Company plans to further evaluate this mineralization through re-modelling and optimization of the block model and wire frames to determine if it can be incorporated in future resource estimates. Resources & Opportunities in the White Gold District West-central Yukon is host to several highly prospective mineral districts, including the White Gold, Dawson Range, Klondike and Sixtymile districts. The Klondike was the epicentre of the historic Klondike Gold Rush in 1896 with over 20 million ounces of placer gold production having occurred in the region since that time. The Companys property portfolio, which covers large portions of the White Gold District, was assembled by renowned prospector Shawn Ryan, and represents the largest claim package in the region, consisting of 15,876 claims across 26 properties and covering approximately 315,000 hectares. Two significant advanced projects border the Companys claims in the south including the Coffee project owned by Newmont Corporation with Indicated Resources of 2.14 Moz at 1.23 g/t Au, and Inferred Resources of 0.23 Moz at 1.01 g/t Au(2), and Western Copper and Gold Corporations Casino project, which has Measured and Indicated Resources of 7.6 billion lb Cu and 14.5 Moz Au and Inferred Resources of 3.3 billion lb Cu and 6.6 Moz Au(3). The region has seen significant investment by various other major mining companies recently and the Yukon is consistently ranked as a top 10 mining jurisdiction on the Investment Attractiveness Index based on the Fraser Institutes Annual Survey of Mining Companies. All four of White Golds near-surface deposits are interpreted to represent structurally-controlled orogenic gold deposits, collectively form the Companys gold resource base in the heart of its large land package, and remain open for expansion. Qualified Persons, Technical Information and Quality Control The MRE for the White Gold Project was prepared by Dr. Gilles Arseneau of Arseneau Consulting Services (ACS), an Independent Qualified Person (QP) as defined under NI 43-101, who has reviewed and approved the contents of this news release. The technical content of this news release has also been reviewed and approved by Terry Brace, P.Geo. and Vice President of Exploration for the Company who is also a QP as defined under NI 43-101 Standards of Disclosure of Mineral Projects. QA/QC White Golds drill core sampling consisted of collecting samples over 0.50 m to 2.50 m intervals (depending on lithology and style of mineralization) over the entire hole length. RC samples were collected at continuous 1.5 m intervals. All drill core was cut in half using a diamond saw, with half of the core placed in sample bags and the other half returned to the core box. Standard, blank, and duplicate samples were inserted into both the drill core and RC sample streams at regular intervals to meet a designated QA/QC sample insertion rate. All samples were organized into batches, flown via fixed-wing aircraft from camp, and transported via courier to an ISO-certified laboratory for analysis. About White Gold Corp. The Company owns a portfolio of 15,876 quartz claims across 26 properties covering approximately 315,000 hectares (3,150 km2) representing approximately 40% of the Yukons emerging White Gold District. The Companys flagship White Gold project hosts four near-surface gold deposits which collectively contain an estimated 1,203,000 ounces of gold in Indicated Resources and 1,116,600 ounces of gold in Inferred Resources (this news release). Regional exploration work has also produced several other new discoveries and prospective targets on the Companys claim packages which border sizable gold discoveries including the Coffee project owned by Newmont Corporation with Measured and Indicated Resources of 2.1 Moz at 1.28 g/t gold and Inferred Resources of 0.2 Moz at 1.04 g/t gold(2), and Western Copper and Gold Corporations Casino project which has Measured and Indicated Resources of 7.6 Blb copper and 14.5 Moz gold and Inferred Resources of 3.3 Blb copper and 6.6 Moz gold(3). For more information visit www.whitegoldcorp.ca. (1) See White Gold Corp. technical report titled 2023 Technical Report for the White Gold Project, Dawson Range, Yukon, Canada, Effective Date April 15, 2023, Report Date May 30, 2023, NI 43-101 Compliant Technical Report prepared by Dr. Gilles Arseneau, P.Geo., available on SEDAR+. (2) See Newmont Corporation Form 10-K: Annual report for the year ending December 31, 2023, in the Measured, Indicated, and Inferred Resources section, dated February 29, 2024, available on EDGAR. Reserves and resources disclosed in this Form 10-K have been prepared in accordance with the Regulation S-K 1300, and do not indicate NI43-101 compliance. (3) See Western Copper and Gold Corporation technical report titled Casino project, Form 43-101F1 Technical Report Feasibility Study, Yukon Canada, Effective Date June 13, 2022, Issue Date August 8, 2022, NI 43-101 Compliant Technical Report prepared by Daniel Roth, PE, P.Eng., Mike Hester, F Aus IMM, John M. Marek, P.E., Laurie M. Tahija, MMSA-QP, Carl Schulze, P.Geo., Daniel Friedman, P.Eng., Scott Weston, P.Geo., available on SEDAR+. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Information This news release contains forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (collectively, forward-looking statements) within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as expects, or does not expect, is expected, anticipates or does not anticipate, plans, proposed, 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. In this news release, forward-looking statements relate, among other things, the Companys objectives, goals and exploration activities conducted and proposed to be conducted at the Companys properties; future growth potential of the Company, including whether any proposed exploration programs at any of the Companys properties will be successful; exploration results; and future exploration plans and costs and financing availability. These forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions and estimates of management of the Company at the time such statements were made. Actual future results may differ materially as 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 materially differ from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors, among other things, include: The expected benefits to the Company relating to the exploration conducted and proposed to be conducted at the White Gold properties; the receipt of all applicable regulatory approvals for the Offering; failure to identify any additional mineral resources or significant mineralization; the preliminary nature of metallurgical test results; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, including to fund any exploration programs on the Companys properties; business integration risks; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; fluctuations in spot and forward prices of gold, silver, base metals or certain other commodities; fluctuations in currency markets (such as the Canadian dollar to United States dollar exchange rate); 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 formations 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 and mineral exploration; 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); the unlikelihood that properties that are explored are ultimately developed into producing mines; geological factors; actual results of current and future exploration; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be evaluated; soil sampling results being preliminary in nature and are not conclusive evidence of the likelihood of a mineral deposit; title to properties; and those factors described under the heading Risks Factors in the Companys annual information form dated July 29, 2020 available on SEDAR+. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure shareholders that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information, or the material factors or assumptions used to develop such forward-looking information, will prove to be accurate. The Company does not undertake to release publicly any revisions for updating any voluntary forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable securities law. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. For Further Information, Please Contact: Contact Information: David DOnofrio Chief Executive Officer White Gold Corp. (647) 930-1880 ir@whitegoldcorp.ca Request Meeting: https://calendly.com/meet-with-wgo/15min Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2054d17c-d97d-442d-8434-71d5bc042d6e https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8f5756b3-f93d-4a30-8d3b-3b24adc24da4 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b65ebb02-e116-4ab5-b94e-70b9e9a304e6 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a3176d26-1db6-4604-815d-0bce6711d4e1 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/35328b4a-d616-4277-8aef-b656065d8680 Atlanta, Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Incident IQ, the workflow management platform built exclusively for K-12, announced today that Bill Loller will join the companys leadership team as Chief Product Officer, effective January 6, 2025. Bill Loller brings over two decades of expertise in product leadership with a proven track record of driving technological and organizational transformations. Prior to joining Incident IQ, Loller served as Vice President of Product Management at Discovery Education, where he led the development of cutting-edge solutions that advanced instructional technology and user experience. He was also previously Vice President of Product Management at Turnitin, a leader in helping students write with integrity, and spent four years as an analyst at Gartner Group focusing on trends in the broader technology industry. Bills deep experience in customer-centric product innovation makes him the perfect leader to guide the evolution of Incident IQs solutions, said R.T. Collins, CEO of Incident IQ. His vision aligns with our mission to empower K-12 schools with tools that streamline workflows and free up time for teaching and learning. Were thrilled to welcome Bill to the team. I am honored to join Incident IQ at such an exciting time in its journey, said Bill Loller. Ive long admired iiQs commitment to empowering K-12 districts with purpose-built solutions. Im excited to build on that legacy by leading the charge in designing innovative tools that help schools maximize their efficiency and focus on what matters mostsupporting students and educators. About Incident IQ Incident IQ is the workflow management platform built exclusively for K-12 schools, featuring asset management, help ticketing, facilities maintenance solutions, and more. Trusted by over 1,800 districts, Incident IQ supports mission-critical services for more than 12 million students and teachers across the United States. Incident IQ is based in Atlanta. Attachment VICTORIA, Seychelles, Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MEXC, a global leader in cryptocurrency trading platforms, has unveiled its brand upgrade, introducing its new global brand slogan "Your Easiest Way to Crypto". This rebranding initiative reaffirms MEXC's position as an industry pioneer and underscores its commitment to providing users with a seamless and accessible crypto trading experience. The new slogan marks a pivotal moment in MEXCs evolution as a leader in the cryptocurrency space . It encapsulates the platforms core focus on simplicity, user-centric innovation, and the commitment to providing an unparalleled trading experience. By streamlining the user journey and lowering the barriers to entry, MEXC empowers individuals of all experience levels to confidently navigate the dynamic crypto market. Whether through competitive fee structures, a diverse range of tokens, or substantial reward programs, MEXC embodies its commitment to becoming "Your Easiest Way to Crypto". As part of its rebranding efforts, MEXC is enhancing its offering with a focus on four core strengths that define its position as an industry leader: M Most Trending Tokens: MEXC is renowned for its industry-leading rapid token listings and comprehensive selection of the most sought-after tokens, helping users to effectively capitalize on emerging market opportunities. MEXC is renowned for its industry-leading rapid token listings and comprehensive selection of the most sought-after tokens, helping users to effectively capitalize on emerging market opportunities. E Everyday Airdrops: MEXC makes it easy for users to engage in daily airdrop events and receive substantial rewards without going through complex procedures. MEXC makes it easy for users to engage in daily airdrop events and receive substantial rewards without going through complex procedures. X Xtremely Low Fees: MEXC enables users to reduce trading costs through its highly competitive rates within the industry. MEXC enables users to reduce trading costs through its highly competitive rates within the industry. C Comprehensive Liquidity: With deep market depth and high liquidity, MEXC ensures the efficient and seamless execution of every transaction. The new slogan, Your Easiest Way to Crypto, is a succinct representation of MEXCs vision: to simplify cryptocurrency trading for all users. "MEXC's rebranding signifies a pivotal moment in our journey," said MEXC VP Tracy. "We are committed to providing a seamless and rewarding experience for all users, regardless of their background or experience level. 'Your Easiest Way to Crypto' is more than just a slogan; it's a promise we intend to deliver every step of the way." In conjunction with the brand upgrade, MEXC is set to launch a slogan video contest "Lights, Camera, MEXC!". This initiative aims to invite talented video creators to compete by crafting short videos that best represent the MEXC brand spirit, offering global users a unique and innovative way to engage with the brand. Moving forward, MEXC will continue to prioritize innovation and user experience, delivering the tools and resources needed to make cryptocurrency trading as accessible and rewarding as possible. With technological advancements, enhanced product offerings, and a commitment to service optimization, MEXC is positioned to remain a leading force in the global crypto trading market. About MEXC Founded in 2018, MEXC is dedicated to being "Your Easiest Way to Crypto." Known for its extensive selection of trending tokens, airdrop opportunities, and low fees, MEXC serves over 30 million users across 170+ countries. With a focus on accessibility and efficiency, our advanced trading platform appeals to both new traders and seasoned investors alike. MEXC provides a seamless, secure, and rewarding gateway to the world of digital assets. MEXC Official Website X Telegram How to Sign Up on MEXC Contact: Lucia Hu PR Manager lucia.hu@mexc.com Disclaimer: This content is provided by MEXC. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/787c6a33-0631-4c49-9108-28e170f8ccea WASHINGTON and LONDON and BERLIN, Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Hausfeld is pleased to announce that 5 attorneys have been promoted to Partner and 4 attorneys have been promoted to Counsel across the United States and Europe for 2025. Partner promotions Samantha Derksen, Jane Shin, Mary Sameera Van Houten Harper, Renner K. Walker, and Amandine Gueret have been invited to join the partnership. In Washington, D.C., Samantha Derksen focuses on complex litigation, advocating for individuals, businesses, government entities, and groups seeking justice. Her practice spans antitrust, financial, and environmental matters, including climate change litigation. Samantha also spent several years practicing in Hausfelds London office and brings extensive litigation experience across the U.S., England & Wales, the Netherlands, and international courts. In Washington, D.C., Jane Shin primarily focuses on antitrust litigation, with a depth of experience in other areas of complex litigation, including commercial disputes, patent litigation, financial matters, and consumer protection. She has broad experience in courts, arbitration, and investigations, representing clients in industries such as financial services, manufacturing, and government. Janes expertise includes trial counsel roles, managing electronic discovery, and negotiating settlements, delivering successful outcomes for companies, federal agencies, patent holders, and employees. In Washington, D.C., Mary Sameera Van Houten Harper focuses on complex litigation, specializing within the human rights, antitrust, and consumer protection fields. She has litigated numerous class action cases in state and federal courts nationwide, from claim development to settlement. Committed to advancing social good, Mary represents individuals, consumers, and state attorneys general in groundbreaking cases challenging corporate wrongdoing. In New York, Renner K. Walker focuses on complex cases in natural resources and environmental litigation, antitrust, cybersecurity, and commercial disputes. Renner represents clients seeking justice in federal, state, and administrative courts nationwide, including farmers, whistleblowers, workers, state governments and one of the largest U.S. water authorities. Renners experience in class actions and complex litigation ranges from case investigation through fact and expert. As a dual English/French qualified lawyer, Amandine Gueret advises European clients from different sectors on international competition disputes and has extensive experience litigating individual and collective competition claims in the Competition Appeal Tribunal in London, as well as assisting clients in successfully navigating litigation across several jurisdictions across Europe. She has been instrumental in the Truck Cartel litigation alongside working for a number of auto clients and current claims in relation to the Power Cables Cartel. Counsel promotions In New York, Kartik Sameer Madiraju works on antitrust, environmental, and consumer protection matters, with additional experience in mass torts, products liability, and shareholder derivative litigation. Previously, Kartik was an Associate at a nonprofit public interest environmental law organization, focusing on administrative advocacy and litigation under the Toxic Substances Control Act. Kartik also represented individuals and classes harmed by pesticides, electronic cigarettes, and contaminated generic pharmaceuticals. In Dusseldorf, Otis Grone specializes in EU and German antitrust litigation and complex mass claim proceedings. Otis has extensive experience in representing claimants in major national and international proceedings. In particular, he advises claimants in cartel damages actions, including proceedings relating to the Truck Cartel, and in abuse of dominance cases. Otis also represents clients in model proceedings against the Federal Republic of Germany, enforcing reimbursement claims due to unlawfully levied truck tolls for over 15,000 transport and logistics companies. In London, Charles Laporte-Bisquit has played a key role in the legal team representing car manufacturers in price-fixing and bid-rigging cartel cases in the automotive industry, most notably in the recent trial of PSA Automobiles SA & Ors v Autoliv AB & Ors. He has also been involved in some of the most well-known competition damages actions in recent years, including the Air Cargo cartel claims against British Airways in the High Court and the Trains opt-out collective claim in the Competition Appeal Tribunal. Based in Berlin, Dr. Christopher Unseld has acquired broad experience in competition and antitrust litigation, as well as commercial disputes. He has a proven track record of managing complex, large-scale mass litigation and is a recognized voice in the debate on collective redress in Germany. Christopher is particularly dedicated to promoting access to justice for small and medium-sized enterprises, not only in mass tort cases but also in the digital sector, where he has significant experience litigating against major tech companies. Beyond his legal practice, Christopher trains young professionals and contributes to the field through publications on competition law, access to justice, and collective actions. Other promotions We are also pleased to announce a further 1 Senior Associate, 2 Senior Staff Attorney, 1 Senior Paralegal, and 1 global operations team promotions. Commenting on the promotions, Global Co-Chair Brian Ratner said: Our people are at the heart of Hausfelds success, and we take pride in fostering the growth of future leaders. We are thrilled to congratulate our new partners Mary, Renner, Samantha, Jane, and Amandine on this well-earned achievement, which reflects their dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence. We also celebrate all those stepping into new roles within our 2025 class of promotions across our jurisdictions. This talented group embodies the values and vision that drive our firm forward and help us deliver outstanding results for our clients and the groups and classes we represent. Global Co-Chair Anthony Maton added: These promotions showcase the exceptional talent and global expertise that make Hausfeld unique. We are excited to welcome our new partners, whose diverse skills and perspectives will play a vital role in shaping the firms future. Their commitment and leadership strengthen our ability to navigate the complex challenges our clients face around the world, driving innovation and success across our practices. Editors Notes Contact: Hausfeld Lisa Sharrow 202-953-8177 lsharrow@hausfeld.com Dublin, Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Oligonucleotide Synthesis Market: Forecast by Oligo Length, Application, Category, Type, Product, and Region, with Executive and Consultant Guides" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. This is a complex area but this readable report will bring the entire management team up to speed, on both the technology and the opportunity. The technology is moving fast. It is coming out of the lab and onto the desktop as genomics crosses the chasm.The report includes five year market forecasts. "Oligos" are already hard at work in both mature and emerging market segments. The possibilities and market growth are unlimited. The analysis shows that investors do not yet understand the scope of this technology and the enormous market opportunity. Small biotechs could become huge multinationals, all based on producing DNA and its building blocks. Learn all about it and see our forecasts in this comprehensive report. Synthetic Oligonucleotides are poised for explosive growth as gene technology moves into mainstream healthcare, food production and data storage. The diagnostics industry is supported by a diverse ecosystem of players, each contributing uniquely to its functionality and growth. Academic research labs fuel innovation with cutting-edge research, while diagnostic test developers design the tools needed to detect and monitor health conditions. Instrumentation suppliers and chemical/reagent suppliers provide the essential equipment and materials used in testing. Pathology suppliers, independent clinical laboratories, and various types of labs (public national/regional, hospital, and physicians' office labs) conduct the tests that inform health decisions. Furthermore, audit bodies and certification bodies ensure that these practices meet stringent quality and safety standards. Together, these players create a dynamic market that evolves with technological advancements and changing health care needs. Key Topics Covered: 1 Market Guides 1.1 Situation Analysis 1.2 Guide for Executives and Marketing Staff 1.3 Guide for Investment Analysts and Management Consultants 2 Introduction and Market Definition 2.1 What is Oligonucleotide Synthesis? 2.1.1 The Enzyme Race 2.1.2 Data Storage - The Elephant in the Room 2.2 Market Definition 2.3 Methodology 2.4 Perspective: Healthcare and the IVD Industry 2.4.1 Global Healthcare Spending 2.4.2 Spending on Diagnostics 2.4.3 Important Role of Insurance for Diagnostics 3 Oligonucleotide Synthesis 3.1 Synthesis Technology 3.2 Automation 3.3 Types of Oligonucleotides 3.4 PCR Primers 3.5 PCR Assays and Panels 3.6 Sequencing 3.7 DNA Microarrays 3.8 Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) 3.9 Antisense Oligonucleotides 3.10 Other Uses of Oligonucleotides 3.11 Relationship to CRISPR and Gene Editing 4 Industry Overview 4.1 Players in a Dynamic Market 4.1.1 Academic Research Lab 4.1.2 Diagnostic Test Developer 4.1.3 Instrumentation Supplier 4.1.4 Chemical/Reagent Supplier 4.1.5 Pathology Supplier 4.1.6 Independent Clinical Laboratory 4.1.7 Public National/regional Laboratory 4.1.8 Hospital Laboratory 4.1.9 Physicians Office Lab (POLS) 4.1.10 Audit Body 4.1.11 Certification Body 5 Market Factors 5.1 Factors Driving Growth 5.1.1 The Role of Diagnostics and the Covid Effect 5.1.2 The RNA-Based Vaccine 5.1.3 Genomic Blizzard 5.1.4 Antisense Revival 5.1.5 New Applications 5.2 Factors Limiting Growth 5.2.1 Declining Price 5.2.2 Technology Lag 5.2.3 COVID Realignment 5.3 The Next Five Years 6 Oligonucleotide Synthesis Recent Developments 6.1 Recent Developments - Importance and How to Use This Section 6.1.1 Importance of These Developments 6.1.2 How to Use This Section 6.2 Codexis Successfully Uses Enzymatic Synthesis 6.3 Oligo Factory Achieves GMP Compliance 6.4 Oligonucleotide Synthesis Scaled Up 6.5 Antisense Oligonucleotide Lowers Tau Tangles 6.6 Ansa Biotechnologies Synthesizes Longest Oligo at 1005 Bases 6.7 Agilent will double oligonucleotide capacity 6.8 RNA Synthesis Technology Commercialized by EnPlusOne 6.9 Quick and Automated Printing of Custom Oligos 6.10 WuXi STA Opens Large-Scale Oligo Manufacturing Facility 6.11 Secarna Pharmaceuticals' and Evotec Achieve Programme Designation 6.12 Aligos Discontinues Development of its Antisense Oligonucleotide 6.13 Seegene Obtains CE Mark for Oligo-Based SARS-CoV-2 Assay 6.14 Biofidelity to Launch Mutation Detection Assay 6.15 Oligonucleotide Therapeutics Society Holds Meeting 6.16 New Oligonucleotide Synthesis Chemistry 6.17 Antisense Oligonucleotides Cross Rodents' Blood-Brain Barrier 6.18 New Rapid Multiplexed PCR Assay Uses Oligo Probes 6.19 MIT Devises Oligo 'File System' for DNA Data Storage 6.20 Nuclera Acquires E Ink Digital Microfluidics Business 6.21 Twist Bioscience Hits Milestone for DNA Data Storage 6.22 Twist Bioscience, Vivlion Partner on RNA Libraries for CRISPR 6.23 DNA Script Launching Benchtop Synthesizer for 'DNA on Demand' 6.24 RNA Disease Dx to Develop PoC Covid Test 6.25 Evonetix and Analog Devices Develop GEN3 DNA Synthesis Platform 6.26 ATDBio Receives Grant for Cancer Diagnosis Project 6.27 Twist Bioscience Announces Therapeutic Ab 6.28 Drugmakers boost oligo capacity amid COVID-19 6.29 Aligos Therapeutics in Study of Oligo Candidate 6.30 DNA Script Raises $89M for SYNTAX Launch 6.31 Codexis & Molecular Assemblies Partner for DNA Synthesis 6.32 NuProbe Licenses Oligo Technology from Rice 6.33 Genome editing with Cas9-oligo conjugates 6.34 OliX Pharma and AM Chemicals Partner for RNA Synthesis Support 6.35 Twist Bio To End Trade Secrets Suit 6.36 DNA Script, partners get a grant for data storage 6.37 Xi's STA unit opens oligonucleotide plant 7 Profiles of Key Companies 7.1 Abbott Laboratories 7.2 Agilent 7.3 Ajinomoto Bio-Pharma 7.4 Amyris 7.5 Ansa BioTechnologies 7.6 ATG:biosynthetics 7.7 ATUM 7.8 Azenta 7.9 Bayer 7.10 Beckman Coulter Diagnostics (Danaher) 7.11 Becton, Dickinson and Company 7.12 Biogen 7.13 Biolytic Lab Performance 7.14 Biomatik 7.15 bioMerieux Diagnostics 7.16 Bioneer Corporation 7.17 Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. 7.18 Biospring 7.19 Bio-Synthesis 7.20 Biotage 7.21 Blue Heron Biotechnology (Eurofins Genomic) 7.22 Camena Bioscience 7.23 Cepheid (Danaher) 7.24 Chemgenes 7.25 Codexis 7.26 Cytena 7.27 Diasorin S.p.A. 7.28 DNA Script 7.29 Enzo Biochem 7.30 Eurofins Scientific 7.31 Eurogentec (Kaneka) 7.32 Evonetix 7.33 FASMAC 7.34 GE Healthcare 7.35 Genomatica 7.36 Genscript Biotech 7.37 Glycogene Inc. 7.38 Hologic 7.39 Hongene Biotech 7.40 Innovassynth 7.41 Integrated DNA Technologies (Danaher) 7.42 Ionis Pharmaceuticals 7.43 J&J Innovative Medicine 7.44 Kern Systems 7.45 LGC Biosearch Technologies 7.46 Macrogen 7.47 Maravai LifeSciences Holdings 7.48 Merck & Co., Inc 7.49 Microsynth 7.50 Millipore Sigma 7.51 Molecular Assemblies 7.52 New England Biolabs, Inc. 7.53 Nippon Shinyaku 7.54 Nitto Denko (Avecia) 7.55 Nuclera 7.56 Oligo Factory 7.57 Panagene 7.58 Primerdesign (Novacyt) 7.59 Qiagen 7.60 Revvity 7.61 Roche Diagnostics 7.62 Seegene 7.63 Siemens Healthineers 7.64 Synthego 7.65 TAG Copenhagen A/S 7.66 Thermo Fisher Scientific 7.67 Twist Bioscience 8 Oligonucleotide Synthesis Global Market Overview 8.1 Global Market Overview by Country 8.2 Global Market Size by Length - Overview 8.3 Global Market Size by Application - Overview 8.4 Global Market Size by Product - Overview 8.5 Global Market Size by Category - Overview 8.6 Global Market Size by Type - Overview 9 Global Market by Length 9.1 <20 mer Market 9.2 21-50 mer Market 9.3 51-100 mer Market 9.4 >100 mer Market 10 Global Market by Application 10.1 Research Market 10.2 Diagnostics Market 10.3 Therapeutics Market 10.4 Data Market 11 Global Market by Product 11.1 Oligonucleotides Market 11.2 Instruments Market 11.3 Nucleosides Market 11.4 Other Reagents Market 12 Global Market by Category 12.1 Primer Market 12.2 Probe Market 12.3 DNA Market 12.4 RNA Market 12.5 Other Nucleic Acid Market 13 Global Market by Type 13.1 Standard Oligonucleotides Market 13.2 Custom Oligonucleotides Market 14 Appendices 14.1 Typical Oligo Synthesis Price Lists 14.2 Medicare Clinical Lab Fee Schedule 14.3 Drug Approvals by Molecule Type - A Seven Year View 14.4 Growth of Approved IVD Test Menu 14.5 Growth of Approved Average IVD Test Fee 14.6 Share of Pharma R&D by Country For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/51s08a About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. TARRYTOWN, N.Y., Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Prestige Consumer Healthcare Inc. (the Company or Prestige) (NYSE: PBH) today announced that Chief Financial Officer Christine Saccos responsibilities have been expanded to include the role of Chief Operating Officer, effective immediately. In this enhanced position as COO/CFO, Ms. Sacco will oversee the Companys supply chain, in addition to her existing responsibilities. Ms. Sacco will continue to report to Ron Lombardi, Chief Executive Officer of Prestige. Chris strategic leadership and deep understanding of our business has been instrumental in our growth and success over her 8 years as CFO, said Ron Lombardi. This expanded COO/CFO role positions us to further enhance execution of our strategic initiatives and drive operational excellence across the organization. Her proven track record in finance combined with her experience working closely with our supply chain operations uniquely positions her to drive further operational excellence and long-term organic and M&A growth for our Company in this expanded role. A seasoned executive with more than 27 years of leadership experience in the consumer products and specialty pharma space, Ms. Sacco has served as the Companys Chief Financial Officer since 2016. During her tenure, she has made vital contributions to the Companys strategic transformation and financial success. Under her financial leadership, the Company has achieved strong sales, earnings and cash flow growth over the past 8 years while positioning Prestige with significant future capital allocation flexibility to drive further shareholder value. About Prestige Consumer Healthcare Inc. Prestige Consumer Healthcare is a leading consumer healthcare products company with sales throughout the U.S. and Canada, Australia, and in certain other international markets. The Companys diverse portfolio of brands include Monistat and Summers Eve women's health products, BC and Goody's pain relievers, Clear Eyes and TheraTears eye care products, DenTek specialty oral care products, Dramamine motion sickness treatments, Fleet enemas and glycerin suppositories, Chloraseptic and Luden's sore throat treatments and drops, Compound W wart treatments, Little Remedies pediatric over-the-counter products, Boudreauxs Butt Paste diaper rash ointments, Nix lice treatment, Debrox earwax remover, Gaviscon antacid in Canada, and Hydralyte rehydration products and the Fess line of nasal and sinus care products in Australia. Visit the Company's website at www.prestigeconsumerhealthcare.com . Investor Relations Contact Phil Terpolilli, CFA, 914-524-6819 irinquiries@prestigebrands.com Source: Prestige Consumer Healthcare Inc. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b8a99b5b-fd18-4d27-9a39-e14d1986df82 Defendants, Medallion and Andrew Murstein, motion to dismiss was almost completely denied. Medallion stockholders continue to be exposed to substantial potential financial penalties and have funded millions in legal bills for Mursteins defense. Facing an increasingly perilous situation, defendants have agreed to a settlement in principle. ZimCal demands that Medallions board make important governance changes to protect stakeholders. ZimCal demands Medallions board exercise clawback authority to boost capital levels. ZimCal has strongly urged Medallion to address and resolve the SEC lawsuit for the past 15 months. MINNEAPOLIS, Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The SEC lawsuit may finally be close to resolution as the screws are being tightened on defendants Medallion Financial Corp. (the Company or MFIN) and Andrew Murstein, MFINs COO & President. The defendants find themselves completely isolated with shrinking options. To prevent Mursteins value-destroying behavior from ever being repeated we demand that MFINs board of directors (the Board) make the following stockholder-friendly changes to restore investor confidence: Declassify the Board which would allow stockholders to vote in (or out) ALL 8 directors annually , instead of just the 2 or 3 directors per year currently. , instead of just the 2 or 3 directors per year currently. Separate the Board chairperson and CEO roles , which are both currently held by Andrew Mursteins father. , which are both currently held by Andrew Mursteins father. Appoint an independent director to Board chairperson. Establish a mandatory board retirement age limit of 75 years old to promote board refreshment. years old to promote board refreshment. Decrease effective family control of the board by reducing Murstein family directors or increasing the number of independent directors. Murstein family members make up 3 of 8 board members. Initiate an independent 3 rd party investigation into Andrew Mursteins behavior related to the SEC lawsuit. into Andrew Mursteins behavior related to the SEC lawsuit. Reduce MFINs bylaw change requirements to a simple majority of eligible voting stock from the current 75% of eligible voting stock, shifting greater power to independent stockholders. On September 18th, 2024, Judge Lewis Kaplan, a senior judge with 30 years of service on the US District Court Southern District of New York, denied the majority of the defendants (namely MFIN and Andrew Murstein) motion to dismiss the SEC lawsuit against them. The lawsuit alleges Murstein inflated asset values, committed fraud, lied to auditors, and directed stock touting amongst other violations. The next phase in the lawsuit would have allowed the SEC to probe in far more detail all MFINs relevant communications and potentially question under oath Company management, Board members and key individuals. On December 5th, the SEC announced that Larry Meyers, a co-defendant, had reached a settlement in principle, which if approved will leave the Company and Murstein facing the charges alone with Meyers potentially cooperating with the SEC. Unsurprisingly, the SEC then added that SEC counsel has been engaged in settlement discussions with counsel for the Medallion Defendants [MFIN and Murstein], and the parties have made progress in their discussions. On December 20th, 2024 the SEC announced that settlement agreements in principle have been reached [with MFIN and Murstein] with an effective deadline of February 25, 2025 for the agreement to be finalized. ZimCal Asset Management, LLC, and its affiliates (collectively ZimCal, We, Our) are one of the largest investors in MFIN and have been invested for almost 4 years. We believe that MFIN has tremendous upside but only with the right board and leadership. We believe that MFIN and Mursteins sudden desire to enter settlement discussions was due to the combination of: a co-defendant that settled with the SEC (who may be required to cooperate with the SEC as part of that settlement); MFIN facing increasingly skeptical institutional investors and a volatile share price; and the denial in large part of defendants motion to dismiss which significantly increased Murstein and MFINs probability of facing massive financial penalties, particularly if MFINs Directors and Officers insurance coverage has exclusions if Murstein were found guilty. This decision by MFIN was reached after a 3-year fight with the SEC, spending what we estimate to be $8 million of stockholder money to defend Mursteini and causing tremendous damage to MFINs credibility, valuation and risk profile. When ZimCal strongly pushed for MFIN to resolve the lawsuit, the Company told ZimCal and shareholders that No Change [was] Needed [to MFINs approach], and [ZimCal] Would Not Bring Positive Change. The Company believes the allegations in the SEC complaint are meritless. In its 2023 10K, MFIN stated, [t]he Company and its President and Chief Operating Officer intend to defend themselves vigorously and believe that the SEC will not prevail on its claims. For the last 15 months, we have urged MFIN to take common-sense steps to unlock its tremendous potential. The Company has ignored and attacked us for our position. Along with our recommendation to address and resolve the SEC lawsuit immediately, we also urged the Company to hold Murstein accountable by enforcing its own policies that Murstein clearly violated (regardless of the outcome of the SEC complaint). As quoted in MFINs 2023 proxy filing, the Companys March 21, 2019 Compensation Recoupment (Clawback) policy stated: The Companys Compensation Recoupment Policy seeks to promote a culture of risk mitigation, integrity and accountability. The Compensation Recoupment Policy authorizes the Compensation Committee to seek recoupment or clawback of cash and equity incentive compensation received by an executive officer in the event of a financial restatement or the executive officers detrimental conduct. Further, the Companys Code of Ethical Training and Insider Trading Policy (as amended February 15, 2021) stated: Each Company employee must: Conduct the Companys business with honesty and integrity and in a professional manner that protects the Companys good public image and reputation Avoid any activities that could involve or lead to involvement in any unlawful practice or any harm to the Companys reputation or image. On October 15, 2023, we sent the Board our first letter outlining these (and other) concerns and highlighted its clawback authority for detrimental conduct. Less than 10 days after we sent the letter, MFIN updated their Compensation Recoupment Policy and removed references to detrimental conduct and explicitly made it retroactive to include 2018 compensation. We find this behavior extremely unsettling and apparently designed to protect Andrew Murstein. Given the extensively documented behavior by Murstein in the SEC lawsuit, we demand that the Board act in the best interests of MFINs stockholders by holding Murstein to the same standards as any employee or executive of any public company who committed the same egregious acts. Our singular focus is on making MFIN better and more valuable, which will make our investment more valuable. See www.restoretheshine.com for details on the recently ended proxy contest to replace 2 incumbent directors. Resolving the SEC lawsuit resolution is a critical first step, as we pointed out repeatedly. However, MFINs Board and governance remain seriously flawed and must be improved or stockholders will remain vulnerable to abuse. We are calling upon the Board to immediately implement the stockholder-friendly changes we recommended to restore investor credibility and ensure Mursteins behavior will never be repeated. Visit www.restoretheshine.com for more information or read our 5 Steps to Improvement which provides a straightforward path to creating shareholder value for MFIN. About ZimCal Asset Management, LLC ZimCal Asset Management is an alternative investment firm focused primarily on niche, illiquid and complex credit investment opportunities. ZimCal Asset Management partners with both healthy and distressed borrowers or issuers and provides customized solutions that meet their unique needs and circumstances. Over the last 15 years, the founder of ZimCal Asset Management has developed a specialization investing in FDIC-insured institutions and has partnered with over 120 bank lenders through investments on both sides of the balance sheet. ZimCal usually works in collaboration with bank leadership teams and if required, but on very rare occasions, will insert itself more forcefully if it believes that leadership is underwhelming and threatens to undermine stakeholder investments. ZimCal prides itself on performing extensive, rigorous financial analysis and research to fully understand the risks of any investment. Important Information and Disclaimer ZimCal Asset Management, LLC, and its affiliates BIMIZCI Fund, LLC, and Warnke Investments LLC (collectively, ZimCal or we ), are, directly or indirectly, owners of securities of Medallion Financial Corp. (the Company ). ZimCal currently beneficially owns shares of common stock and Trust Preferred securities. You should assume that ZimCal may from time to time sell all or a portion of their holdings of the Company in open market transactions or otherwise, buy additional shares (in open market or privately negotiated transactions or otherwise), or trade in options, puts, calls, swaps or other derivative instruments relating to such shares. We are not currently engaged in any solicitation of proxies from stockholders of the Company. ZimCal intends to monitor the performance and corporate governance of the Company, as well as the actions of the Companys management and Board. As ZimCal deems necessary, ZimCal will assert its stockholder rights. Except as otherwise set forth herein, the views expressed reflect ZimCals opinions and are based on publicly available information with respect to the Company. We recognize that there may be confidential information in the possession of the Company that could lead it or others to disagree with our conclusions. ZimCal reserves the right to change any of its opinions expressed herein at any time as it deems appropriate and disclaims any obligation to notify the market or any other party of any such change, except as required by law. We disclaim any obligation to update the information or opinions contained herein. The information herein is being provided merely as information and is not intended to be, nor should it be construed as, an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Some of the information herein may contain forward-looking statements. All statements contained herein that are not clearly historical in nature or that depend on future events are forward-looking. The words anticipate, believe, expect, potential, could, opportunity, estimate, plan, and similar expressions are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate and therefore actual results could differ materially from those set forth in, contemplated by, or underlying these forward-looking statements. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in forward-looking statements, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation as to future results or that the objectives and strategic initiatives expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements will be achieved. __________________________ i Professional fees on MFINs income statement contain the SEC-related legal fees. These totaled $18.9 million in 2022 and 2023. These are significantly above historical averages, and we attributed $7 million of the excess to the SEC affair and an additional $1 million through FYE24. ZimCal has asked MFIN repeatedly for a breakdown of legal fees as well as the terms, amount, exclusions and use of Directors and Officers insurance coverage but has been denied. WESTPORT, Conn., Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Compass Diversified Holdings (NYSE: CODI), an owner of leading middle market businesses, announced today that current director Gordon M. Burns advised the Board of Directors (the Board) on January 3, 2025, he will not be standing for re-election at the Companys 2025 annual shareholders meeting due to other commitments. Effective as of January 3, 2025, Mr. Burns stepped down as the Chair of the Companys Nominating & Corporate Governance Committee (the Nominating Committee). Mr. Burns will remain on the Companys Board and as a member of each of the Companys Nominating Committee and Compensation Committee up and until the Companys 2025 annual shareholders meeting. Mr. Burns joined the Board in May of 2008. Elias Sabo, CEO of CODI, commented: Over the past fifteen years, Gordon has made a meaningful contribution to our Board, particularly with respect to our capital raising and capital allocation efforts. As Chair of the Boards Nominating Committee, he was integral in identifying and recruiting the diverse and talented individuals that will lead our Board into the future. On behalf of our entire organization, I want to thank Gordon for his years of dedicated service and his many contributions to the Company. Effective as of January 3, 2025, current director Nancy B. Mahon has been appointed Chair of the Boards Nominating Committee, replacing Mr. Burns. Mahon has served as a director of the Company since May of 2023. She is currently the Chief Sustainability Officer of The Estee Lauder Companies, Inc. She holds a juris doctor degree from the New York University School of Law and is admitted to practice in both state and federal jurisdictions. Larry Enterline, Board Chair, added: Over the past two years, we have taken concrete steps to strengthen and diversify our Board as we prepare for the next phase of our development. Nancy, a licensed attorney, with governance expertise, brings over a decade of experience in corporate citizenship, social initiatives, and sustainability practices to her new role as Chair of our Nominating Committee. Together with our other Board members and committee chairs, we believe we are well positioned to continue to provide strong governance and oversight. About Compass Diversified (CODI) Since its IPO in 2006, CODI has consistently executed its strategy of owning and managing a diverse set of highly defensible, middle-market businesses across the industrial, branded consumer and healthcare sectors. The Company leverages its permanent capital base, long-term disciplined approach, and actionable expertise to maintain controlling ownership interests in each of its subsidiaries, maximizing its ability to impact long-term cash flow generation and value creation. The Company provides both debt and equity capital for its subsidiaries, contributing to their financial and operating flexibility. CODI utilizes the cash flows generated by its subsidiaries to invest in the long-term growth of the Company and has consistently generated strong returns through its culture of transparency, alignment and accountability. For more information, please visit compassdiversified.com. Forward Looking Statements This press release contains certain 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, including statements with regard to the expectations related to the future performance of CODI. Words such as "believes," "expects," will, anticipates, intends, continue, "projects," potential, assuming, and "future" or similar expressions, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to the inherent uncertainties in predicting future results and conditions, some of which are not currently known to CODI. In addition to factors previously disclosed in CODIs reports filed with the SEC, the following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements: changes in the economy, financial markets and political environment; risks associated with possible disruption in CODIs operations or the economy generally due to terrorism, natural disasters, social, civil and political unrest or the COVID-19 pandemic; future changes in laws or regulations (including the interpretation of these laws and regulations by regulatory authorities); general considerations associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the markets in which we operate; and other considerations that may be disclosed from time to time in CODIs publicly disseminated documents and filings. Further information regarding CODI and factors which could affect the forward-looking statements contained herein can be found in CODIs annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Except as required by law, CODI undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Investor Relations Compass Diversified irinquiry@compassdiversified.com Gateway Group Cody Slach 949.574.3860 CODI@gateway-grp.com Media Relations Littleton, Colo., Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Denver Seminary began its 75th year on January 1, marking a historic milestone with the selection of Dr. Mark Husbands as its eighth president. Dr. Husbands officially assumed the role at the start of the new year, following a unanimous decision by the Seminarys Board of Trustees in November after a rigorous national search. My hope and prayer is that God will richly bless Denver Seminary as it steadfastly upholds its mission and core values, said Dr. Husbands. I aim to serve the Seminary by cherishing its exceptional legacy, strengthening its commitment to Christ and Scripture, and advancing its commitment to providing extraordinary formation for students as they pursue Gods call on their lives. Dr. Husbands succeeds Dr. Mark Young, who served as Denver Seminarys president for 15 years before transitioning to the role of chancellor on January 1. Prior to joining Denver Seminary, Dr. Husbands served as the fifth president and vice-chancellor of Trinity Western University in Langley, British Columbia. Under his leadership, TWU experienced substantial growth, including significant financial, academic, and strategic achievements. His tenure saw the elimination of TWUs debt, the raising of $55 million in philanthropic funding, and the addition of $18 million to the universitys endowment. President Husbands successfully aligned mission, vision, and strategy with the goal of equipping graduates to live full and meaningful lives. His dedication to strategic growth helped strengthen TWUs position as a global Christian institution, serving 7,000 students from over 90 countries. President Husbands is uniquely equipped to lead Denver Seminary at this pivotal time, said Elisa Morgan, chair of the Board of Trustees. His values and vision align with Denver Seminarys dedication to biblical truth, academic excellence, and commitment to addressing the cultural and social challenges of our time. President Husbands leadership comes at a time when institutions like Denver Seminary must balance academic rigor with practical outcomes and lead with vision and agility to equip students for the complex demands of society. Dr. Husbands has held numerous academic and leadership roles, including professor of Theology at Tyndale Seminary, assistant professor of Theology at Wheaton College, and the Leonard and Marjorie Maas Chair of Reformed Theology at Hope College. At Hope College, he developed the Emmaus Scholars Program to foster a lifelong commitment to integral mission, racial reconciliation, and Christian community development. He also has served as vice president for academic affairs at Northwestern College, overseeing significant academic and institutional advancements. Dr. Husbands holds a Ph.D. in theology from the University of Toronto and is a graduate of the Oxford Strategic Leadership Programme at Said Business School (University of Oxford). He has taught and published extensively in the areas of Christian doctrine, ethics, political theology, and World Christianity. He and his wife Becky have three adult children, Olivia, Elliott, and Ethan. Denver Seminary is a non-denominational graduate school of theology located in Littleton, Colo. The Seminarys mission is to prepare men and women to engage the needs of the world with the redemptive power of the gospel and the life-changing truth of Scripture. Established in 1950, Denver Seminary offers on-campus, fully online, and hybrid degree programs, and has an extension campus in Washington DC and a Korean Global Program. In addition, the Seminary offers programming for lay ministry through its Hispanic Programs and Black Church Programs. Attachment COSTA MESA, Calif., Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nimble originator of ethically made tech accessoriesand Material a cutting-edge battery manufacturing companyare joining forces to transform portable power by creating previously impossible energy systems. Rather than simply shrinking battery sizes, Materials conformal battery technology allows batteries to take any shape by filling unused voids and crevices within a devices structure. With Materials expertise, we can now design products largely based on functionality instead of the size and shape of current batteries, said Ross Howe, CEO of Nimble. Its a breakthrough that has far-reaching implications for the future of power storage. The collaboration plans to develop new charging solutions aimed at tackling some of the industrys greatest challengesmaking batteries smarter, safer, and more adaptable, while unlocking a new era of product innovation. A Bold New Approach to Battery Design Leveraging these free-form 3D batteries, Nimble and Material will introduce portable versions of existing power accessories like Nimbles FOLD 3-in-1 Wireless Charger, as well as unique designs including a heart-shaped MagSafe-compatible wireless battery for iPhone users. Key Technology Features: Maximum Energy: Optimized battery designs that fill vacant gaps inside products to increase capacity while conserving space. Advanced Nanomaterial: Boosts energy efficiency while reducing the need for traditional, resource intensive materials. Unmatched Safety: Advancements in thermal management that reduce risks by ensuring more stable and consistent battery performance under the most demanding conditions. Next-Gen Products: Adaptability of designs along with sustainable materials and low-impact production methods unlock endless potential for everything from compact chargers to Qi2 wireless solutions, and beyond. This partnership is about creating products that were once unthinkable, said Gabe Elias, CEO of Material. Our conformal technology allows products to perform better, last longer, and operate more safelyredefining whats achievable in portable power. For more information, please contact Kevin Malinowski at connect@gonimble.com . About Nimble As a Certified B Corporation and Climate Neutral Certified brand, Nimble is committed to improving the social and environmental standards of the consumer electronics industry by combining strict sustainability targets with globally recognized product performance and reliability. For the latest updates on new Nimble products and initiatives, visit gonimble.com and follow @nimbleforgood on Instagram , TikTok , Facebook , X , and LinkedIn . About Material Material is a deep-tech company at the forefront of battery manufacturing. With expertise in conformal battery technology and nanomaterial advancements, Material is enabling a new era of energy storage solutions that prioritize safety, adaptability, and performance. A video accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bc782488-7cd1-4ea0-9111-1bf6d30d6764 Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/05c5f9ad-03e2-424f-b5f0-44a6725f5428 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2a526d91-59ec-49f7-9b9f-8d990b7c6ffd https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/de9d611c-a76f-47e1-9855-bebeb4c88395 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f341fd2f-f2ce-47f6-8143-3aaa143a0dc6 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/612c2d90-cd45-4f2a-9a8b-6b2c869ead15 Dublin, Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Payroll Outsourcing Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global payroll outsourcing market size reached approximately USD 10.36 billion in 2023. Aided by the increasing demand for efficient payroll management solutions and the growing trend of business process outsourcing, the market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6% between 2024 and 2032, reaching a value of around USD 17.59 billion by 2032. The growing preference for outsourcing non-core business functions is one of the key drivers of the payroll outsourcing market growth. Companies are increasingly focusing on their core operations and choosing to outsource payroll and other administrative tasks to specialised providers who can offer greater efficiency, accuracy, and compliance with the ever-evolving regulatory landscape. This shift allows businesses to reduce operational costs and avoid penalties associated with payroll errors and non-compliance. The market is driven by several key factors, including the rising complexity of payroll operations, the need for regulatory compliance, and the growing demand for cost-effective solutions. Managing payroll in-house can be a time-consuming and costly process, especially for businesses operating in multiple regions with varying regulations. Payroll outsourcing providers offer expertise in handling the complexities of tax calculations, benefits management, and compliance, which allows companies to focus on their strategic goals. The increasing globalisation of businesses has led to a surge in demand for payroll outsourcing services. Companies with international operations face challenges such as different tax laws, labour regulations, and reporting requirements in each country they operate. Payroll outsourcing providers offer the necessary expertise and infrastructure to manage these complexities, ensuring accurate and compliant payroll processing. This has made payroll outsourcing a valuable solution for multinational corporations seeking to streamline their operations, consequently driving up the payroll outsourcing market share. Technological advancements are another significant factor contributing to the growth of the market. The integration of cloud-based platforms, artificial intelligence (AI), and automation has revolutionised the payroll outsourcing sector by enhancing the accuracy, speed, and efficiency of payroll processing. These technologies also offer additional benefits such as real-time reporting, data analytics, and improved data security. As more companies adopt digital transformation strategies, the demand for technologically advanced payroll outsourcing solutions is expected to rise. The growing focus on data security and privacy is another notable payroll outsourcing market trend shaping the market. With the increasing incidence of data breaches and cyberattacks, companies are seeking payroll outsourcing providers that can offer robust security measures to protect sensitive employee and financial information. Providers that invest in advanced encryption technologies, secure cloud infrastructure, and compliance with global data protection regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) are well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of businesses. As per the payroll outsourcing market analysis, the retail and e-commerce sectors have seen significant growth in recent years, driven by the rise of online shopping and the need for scalable operations. Payroll outsourcing allows companies in this sector to efficiently manage payroll for large and distributed workforces, especially during peak seasons when employee numbers can fluctuate significantly. Outsourcing payroll operations enables retail businesses to focus on customer service and operational growth. The IT sector is known for its dynamic work environment, with employees often working remotely or across different time zones. Payroll outsourcing providers offer cloud-based solutions that enable IT companies to manage payroll efficiently, regardless of location. The ability to automate payroll processes and ensure compliance with tax laws across multiple jurisdictions is particularly beneficial for IT companies with global operations. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 102 Forecast Period 2024 - 2032 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $11.04 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2032 $17.59 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 6.0% Regions Covered Global Market Segmentation The global payroll outsourcing market can be divided based on type, business size, industrial vertical, and region. Market Breakup by Type Hybrid Fully Outsourced Market Breakup by Business Size Small Business Medium Business Large Business Market Breakup by Industrial Vertical BFSI Consumer and Industrial Products IT and Telecommunications Public Sector Healthcare Others Market Breakup by Region North America Europe Asia Pacific Latin America Middle East and Africa Competitive Landscape The report looks into the market shares, plant turnarounds, capacities, investments, and mergers and acquisitions, among other major developments, of the leading companies operating in the global payroll outsourcing market. Some of the major players explored in the report are as follows: IBM ADP CloudPay Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Infosys KPMG Huazhen ZenPayroll HCL Technologies HRMantra Software For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/ya5dm9 About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment PHOENIX, Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DBM Global Inc. (DBM) announces the election of new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Mark Koolis. Former CFO Michael R. Hill has taken a different position with DBM and has been elected as Vice President of Finance and will remain on the DBM Board of Directors. The other Officers will keep their current roles: James R. Roach Chairman and CEO, Robert N. Waldrep Vice President, and Scott D. Sherman Vice President, General Counsel, and Secretary. Mr. Roach stated that Mike Hill has served, with distinction, as CFO for DBM Global since 2000 and we are excited to have Mike continue in a different role with the Company. Mr. Roach added that Mark Koolis has been working closely with Mike over the last two years and will be ready to hit the ground running as our new CFO. Mr. Koolis stated that I am excited to step into the role of CFO and continue to work with the incredible team at DBM Global to contribute to the companys continued success. New CFO Biography: Mark Koolis Mark Koolis joined DBM in September 2021 as VP of Finance and Administration. Mr. Koolis was part of the May 2021 Banker Steel acquisition where he worked as Chief Financial Officer since 2019 and was previously CFO of NYCC, a subsidiary of Banker Steel, from 2016-2019. Prior to joining Banker Steel, Mr. Koolis worked at Hubbell Inc. in various senior financial roles. Mr. Koolis holds a BS in Business Administration and Masters of Science in Accounting from the University of Connecticut. About DBM Global Inc. DBM Global Inc. is focused on delivering world class, sustainable value to its clients through a highly collaborative portfolio of companies which provide better designs, more efficient construction, and superior asset management solutions. The Company offers integrated steel construction services from a single source and professional services which include design-assist, design-build, engineering, detailing, BIM co-ordination, steel modeling/detailing, fabrication, rebar detailing, advanced field erection, project management, and state-of-the-art steel management systems. Major market segments include commercial, healthcare, convention centers, stadiums, gaming and hospitality, mixed use and retail, industrial, public works, bridges, transportation, and international projects. The Company, which is headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, has operations in United States, Australia, Canada, India, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and the United Kingdom. Contact: DBM Global Inc. Mark Koolis (602)257-7838 Mark.Koolis@dbmglobal.com For additional information on DBM Globals majority shareholder, INNOVATE Corp. (NYSE: VATE), please visit http://www.innovatecorp.com or contact: Investor Contact: Solebury Strategic Communications Anthony Rozmus (212) 235-2691 Email: ir@innovatecorp.com Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Safe Harbor Statement Under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: This release contains, and certain oral statements made by our representatives from time to time may contain, forward-looking statements. Generally, forward-looking statements include information describing actions, events, results, strategies and expectations and are generally identifiable by use of the words "believes," "expects," "intends," "anticipates," "plans," "seeks," "estimates," "projects," "may," "will," "could," "might," or "continues" or similar expressions. The forward-looking statements in this press release include without limitation statements regarding our expectation regarding building shareholder value. Such statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of DBM Global's management and the management of DBM Globals subsidiaries. The Company believes these judgments are reasonable, but you should understand that these statements are not guarantees of performance or results, and the Company's actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements due to a variety of important factors, both positive and negative, that may be revised or supplemented in subsequent reports on INNOVATE Corp.s Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K. These risks and other important factors discussed under the caption "Risk Factors" in INNOVATEs most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), and other reports filed with the SEC could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements made in this press release. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements attributable to DBM Global or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the foregoing cautionary statements. All such statements speak only as of the date made, and DBM Global undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Highlights: Electrum is one of eight early-stage exploration companies selected by BHP, from hundreds of applicants globally, to participate in the 2025 BHP Xplor program. BHP Xplor will provide Electrum with up to US$500,000 in non-dilutive grant funding to support and accelerate its exploration activities at Timok East during the 6-month period of the Program. Selection for BHP Xplor also gives Electrum access to BHP's global expertise, networks and partnerships. BHP Xplor grant will accelerate exploration across the entire Timok East project and is expected to develop a new geological concept. Vancouver, January 6, 2025 - Electrum Discovery Corp. ("Electrum" or the "Company") (TSX-V:ELY |FRA:R8N |OTC:ELDCF) is pleased to announce that following a rigorous selection process, it has been selected as one of eight exploration companies to participate in BHP's 2025 Xplor Accelerator Program ("BHP Xplor" and/or "Program"). Funding from the Program will be directed to the Company's Timok East copper-gold project ("Timok East") in the Republic of Serbia. BHP Xplor was established in 2023 to support promising mineral explorers and to accelerate the exploration needed to support the energy transition. Over a six-month program period, BHP Xplor targets development of technical, business and operational excellence within participating companies. As a 2025 BHP Xplor cohort company, Electrum will receive a one-off, non-dilutive grant of up to US$500,000, and in-kind services, mentorship, and networking opportunities with BHP and other industry experts and investors. "We are honoured and delighted to be selected for BHP Xplor Program" Dr Elena Clarici, CEO and President of Electrum commented. "This is an exciting opportunity for Electrum and a strong endorsement of our exploration strategy underway at Timok East. We have always sought to operate at the cutting edge of exploration practices and it's rewarding to be recognised for our approach by BHP, a clear industry leader. BHP has global experience for scale targets of the type we are working on, that our exploration will clearly benefit from." Head of BHP Xplor, Marley Palin, congratulated Electrum, saying: "The field of applicants for BHP Xplor was extremely strong this year. Successful applicants had to demonstrate not only that their critical-mineral projects were highly prospective but also that they were committed to pushing industry boundaries in their geological concepts and data-gathering, testing and processing to realise the project. Electrum more than met these criteria and we look forward to partnering with Electrum's team." The eight BHP Xplor 2025 cohort explorers were selected from hundreds of global applicants. There are no obligations or commitments on Electrum beyond the conclusion of the BHP Xplor program in July 2025. However, during the grant period, BHP might elect to make an investment proposal and Electrum is under no obligation to accept it. In the event of Electrum opting to decline this investment offer, BHP will have a right of first refusal in respect of any direct investment into the Timok East Project for a period of 12 months, following the date of the investment proposal. For more information contact: Dr Elena Clarici, Chief Executive Officer and Director T: +1 604 801 5432 | E: elena@electrumdiscovery.com | W: electrumdiscovery.com About Electrum Discovery Corp. Electrum Discovery Corp. is an emerging mineral exploration and development company focused on the prolific Western Tethyan Belt with two main projects spanning 645 square kilometers of prospective exploration ground in the Republic of Serbia. Timok East extends over 123 square kilometers across the Timok copper-gold region and includes the recently discovered Bambino copper-gold anomaly, located less than five kilometers from the Bor Copper-Gold Mining Complex. Novo Tlamino, located in the south-east of the Republic of Serbia, covers 522 square kilometers and includes an inferred mineral resource estimate of 670,000oz AuEq (7,100,000t at 2.9 g/t AuEq average grade), PEA (January 7, 2021)[1] Electrum Discovery is looking to maximize the value of our mineral projects for all stakeholders including our shareholders, the local community and government. We have an open-door policy and encourage all stakeholders to contact us through our website. We have a strong environmental and ethics policy to complete all our work in line with regulations in an open and transparent process. Our projects are at an early stage, and we plan continue our consultation with all stakeholders in a climate of mutual respect, while fostering sustainability, governance and knowledge transfer in the region. Additional information on Electrum can be found by reviewing the Company's page on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking information. Such statements include the expected development of a new geological concept at Timok East as a result of the Program; the Company's expected achievement of specified milestones; results of operations; and expected financial results of the Company. Often, but not always, this forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as "estimate", "estimates", "estimated", "potential", "open", "future", "assumed", "projected", "used", "detailed", "has been", "gain", "upgraded", "offset", "limited", "contained", "reflecting", "containing", "remaining", "to be", "periodically", or statements that events, "could" or "should" occur or be achieved and similar expressions, including negative variations. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Electrum, to be materially different from any results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking information. Such uncertainties and factors include, among others, uncertainties inherent in the PEA and exploration results and the estimation of mineral resources; risks related to the failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms; changes in general economic conditions and financial markets; risks associated with the results of exploration and development activities, and the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; unanticipated costs and expenses; and such other risks detailed from time to time in Electrum's quarterly and annual filings with securities regulators and available under Electrum's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Rock chip and surface results are early stage and there is no assurance that future exploration will find mineralization of further interest. Although Electrum has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Forward-looking information contained herein are based on the assumptions, beliefs, expectations and opinions of management. Forward-looking information has been made as of the date hereof and Electrum disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by law. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. [1] Preliminary Economic Assessment and NI43-101 Technical Report for the Medgold Tlamino Project, January 7, 2021, www.sedarplus.ca. The effective date of the resource estimate is January 7, 2021. Authors of the Reports are: Mr. Richard Siddle, MAIG, of Addison Mining Services Ltd for Mineral Resources; Dr. Matthew Randall, FIMMM, of Axe Valley Mining Consultants Ltd for Mining; Mr. Ian Jackson, FIMMM, of Bara Consulting for Mineral Processing, and Dr. Andrew Bamber, MCIM, of Bara Consulting Ltd for Economic Analysis. The PEA is preliminary in nature, and it includes inferred mineral resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be characterized as mineral reserves, and there is no certainty that the PEA will be realised. Copyright (c) 2025 TheNewswire - All rights reserved. VANCOUVER, Jan. 6, 2025 - Libero Copper & Gold Corp. (TSXV: LBC) (OTCQB: LBCMF) (DE: 29H) ("Libero Copper" or the "Company") is pleased to announce results from the first diamond drill hole (MD-044) of its 14,000-metre resource expansion drilling program at the Mocoa porphyry copper-molybdenum deposit in Putumayo, Colombia, Libero Copper's flagship asset. MD-044 was designed to fill-in the current geological model that indicated a prospective feed zone to the deposit. The hole confirmed mineralization from surface to the final drill depth which remains open. These results strengthen Libero Copper's geological model and lay the foundation for additional step-out drilling aimed at significantly expanding the existing resource. Highlights 1,141 metres of continuous mineralization: Hole MD-044 intersected 1,141 metres grading 0.46% CuEq* (0.27% Cu and 0.04% Mo) from surface to end of hole (EOH). Robust high-grade intervals: 542-metre segment averaged 0.69% CuEq* (0.41% Cu and 0.07% Mo) from 281 to 824 metres, including 389 metres grading 0.76% CuEq* (0.45% Cu and 0.07% Mo) from 293 to 682 metres. Extension of high-grade core zone: MD-044 extended the northeast-trending high-grade core zone at depth and intersected high-grade values in a "gap" area, suggesting a potential connection between two high-grade zones. These results underscore the scale and grade of the Mocoa deposit and support further exploration aimed at expanding and upgrading the resource base. Evidence of multi-stage mineralization: Alteration and mineralization observed in MD-044 indicate a complex, prolonged hydrothermal system typical of deep-rooted feeder structures, highlighting the potential for continued resource growth. Newly identified diorite-porphyry unit: The hole ended in a potassic-altered early diorite-porphyry not previously recognized at Mocoa. Further drilling will help refine the geological interpretation of this unit and its role in the broader porphyry system. "Years of groundwork-community collaboration, technical modeling, and strategic partnerships-have brought us to this point, and I truly believe we are only beginning to unlock Mocoa's full potential," stated Ian Harris, President & CEO of Libero Copper. "MD-044, the first hole in our 14,000-metre program, delivered on its objectives-demonstrating remarkable scale, continuity, and broad copper-molybdenum mineralization from surface to end of hole, which remains open. It filled in critical geological knowledge and builds confidence in our ability to significantly expand the resource base. These first results already compare favourably to some of the world's best copper projects, and we believe they will drive Mocoa toward a transformative next phase." Watch a video update from Ian Harris, President & CEO, about the first diamond drill hole MD-044 results. Table 1. Assay results for drill hole MD-044 MD-044 From (m) To (m) Interval (m) Cu% Mo% CuEq* 0.0 1,141.2 1,141 0.27 0.04 0.46 Including 131.7 1,141.2 1,009 0.30 0.05 0.50 and including 131.7 1,090.2 958 0.32 0.05 0.52 and including 131.7 824.1 692 0.39 0.06 0.63 and including 281.7 824.1 542 0.41 0.07 0.69 and including 293.7 682.7 389 0.45 0.07 0.76 and including 295.7 361.7 66 0.70 0.09 1.09 and including 474.1 674.7 201 0.49 0.09 0.86 *Copper equivalent (CuEq) for drill hole interceptions is calculated as: CuEq (%) = Cu (%) + 4.2 Mo (%), utilizing metal prices of Cu - US$4.00/lb and Mo - US$20.00/lb and metal recoveries of 90% Cu and 75% Mo. Grades are uncut. Mineralized zones at Mocoa are bulk porphyry-style zones and drilled widths are interpreted to be very close to true widths. MD-044 Hole MD-044 (see figure 1) is the first hole in the 14,000-metre drill program at the Mocoa porphyry Cu-Mo deposit (refer to news release November 6, 2024). This hole was strategically drilled to test the high-grade zone continuity plunging to the northeast, below the existing conceptual pit-constrained Inferred resources1 (refer to news release October 16, 2024) and to explore the potential connection between both high-grade core areas as part of the broader strategy to expand the current mineral resource of Mocoa (see Figure 2). Detailed Anaconda logging of MD-044 shows multiple alteration zones, providing insights into the complex hydrothermal evolution of the deposit. The initial 100 metres encountered argillic alteration dominated by iron oxides (after D-type veins), representing the bottom of the visible oxidation zone. This alteration is characteristic of the upper levels of the Mocoa porphyry system (see figure 3A) and is related to the de-magnetized zone and K-alteration index observed in the airborne magnetics and radiometric survey data (refer to news release May 03, 2022). Throughout the hole, sericite alteration is pervasive and locally overprinted earlier potassic alteration, which is characterized by barren A-type (quartz veinlets) and K-spar veinlets (see figure 3B). Chalcopyrite and molybdenite (moly) are frequently associated with C-type (chalcopyrite dominant and minor content of pyrite) and classical B-type veins (moly and saccharoidal quartz), both of which cross-cut the earlier A-type and K-spar veinlets (see figure 3C and 3D). Additionally, fine-grained chalcopyrite and molybdenite crystals were observed disseminated within the groundmass of the dacite porphyry (see figure 3F) and as matrix-infill of a brecciated porphyry (see figure 3E). As an overall, three main magmatic-mineralization stages are recognized at the Mocoa porphyry Cu-Mo deposit: Stage 1 is related to the early intrusion of a quartz diorite porphyry with disseminated chalcopyrite and molybdenite and multiple generation of A and K-spar veinlets, locally truncated and crossing by B-type veins. Stage 2 is related to a dacite porphyry with strong sericite alteration (locally overprinted potassic alteration) and multiple B and C type veining cross-cutting early A-type veins. Stage 3 is related to the brecciation event which brings the highest Cu-Mo grade, observed in form of chalcopyrite and molybdenite as matrix-infill within a hydrothermal breccia with strong potassic alteration locally overprinting chlorite-sericite alteration as observed in hole MD-043 (refer to new release March 30, 2022; April 19, 2022 and April 26, 2022). All of these stages were consistently observed in MD-044 hole, providing clear evidence of the multi-stage mineralization events within the deposit and demonstrating the complex and prolonged hydrothermal activity that occurred within the Mocoa porphyry system. It is notable that drill hole MD-044 ended at 1,141 metres still in mineralization (roughly 1,000 metres below surface) intersecting additional pyrite-epidote (with minor content of chalcopyrite) and QSP (quartz-pyrite-sericite) veins overprinted the earlier C-type and B-type veins (see figure 3G) suggesting the open-ended potential of the system. Further drilling will assist to refine the understanding of high-grade copper and molybdenum distribution and potentially expanding the resource through targeted infill and step-out drilling. Qualified Person and Technical Notes Edwin Naranjo Sierra, Exploration Manager of Libero Copper, is the designated Qualified Person within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 and has reviewed and verified the technical information in this news release. Mr. Naranjo holds a MSc. in Earth Sciences, and is a Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (FAusIMM) and the Society of Economic Geologist. *Copper equivalent (CuEq) for drill hole interceptions is calculated as: CuEq (%) = Cu (%) + 4.2 Mo (%), utilizing metal prices of Cu - US$4.00/lb, Mo - US$20.00/lb. Metal recoveries utilized for the resource model are 90% for Cu and 75% for Mo. Mineralized zones at Mocoa are bulk porphyry-style zones and drilled widths are interpreted to be very close to true widths. Libero Copper operates according to a rigorous Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) protocol consistent with industry best practices. Core diameter is a mix of HQ and NQ depending on the depth of the drill hole. Diamond drill core boxes were photographed, sawed, sampled and tagged in maximum 2-metre intervals, stopping in geological boundaries. Samples were bagged, tagged and packaged for shipment by truck from Libero Copper's core logging facilities in Mocoa, Colombia to the Actlabs certified sample preparation facility in Medellin, Colombia. ActLabs is an accredited laboratory independent of the company. Samples are processed in the Medellin facilities where they are analyzed for copper and molybdenum by 4-Acid digest Atomic Absorption (AA) analysis. The sample pulps are air freighted from Medellin to the ActLabs certified laboratory in Guadalajara, Mexico, where they are analyzed for a suite of 57 elements using 4-Acid digest and ICP-MS. In order to monitor the ongoing quality of assay data and the database, Libero Copper has implemented QA/QC protocols which include standard sampling methodologies, the insertion of certified copper and molybdenum standard materials, blanks, duplicates (field, preparation and analysis) randomly inserted into the sampling sequence. QA/QC program also include the ongoing monitoring of data entry, QA/QC reporting and data validation. No material QA/QC issues have been identified with respect to sample collection, security and assaying. About the Mocoa Porphyry Copper-Molybdenum Deposit The Mocoa deposit is located in the department of Putumayo, 10 kilometres from the town of Mocoa. Libero Copper's district scale holdings cover over 1,000 km2 through titles and applications, encompassing most of the Jurassic porphyry belt in southern Colombia. Mocoa was discovered in 1973 when the United Nations and the Colombian government conducted a regional stream sediment geochemical survey. Between 1978 and 1983, an exploration program was carried out that consisted of geological mapping, surface sampling, ground geophysics (IP, magnetics), 31 diamond drill holes totaling 18,321 metres and metallurgical test work B2Gold subsequently executed diamond drill programs in 2008 and 2012. The Mocoa deposit appears to be open in both directions along strike and at depth. Current work on the property has identified additional porphyry targets including the possible expansion of known mineralization. The Mocoa deposit is situated in the Central Cordillera of Colombia, a 30-kilometre-wide tectonic belt underlain by volcano-sedimentary, sedimentary and intrusive rocks that range in age from Triassic-Jurassic to Quaternary and by remnants of Paleozoic metasediments and metamorphic rocks of Precambrian age. This belt hosts several other porphyry-copper deposits in Ecuador, such as Mirador, San Carlos, Panantza and Solaris' Warintza. Copper-molybdenum mineralization is associated with dacite porphyry intrusions of the Middle Jurassic age that are emplaced into andesitic and dacitic volcanics. The Mocoa porphyry system exhibits a classical zonal pattern of hydrothermal alteration and mineralization, with a deeper central core of potassic alteration overlain by sericitization and surrounded by propylitization. Mineralization consists of disseminated chalcopyrite, molybdenite and local bornite and chalcocite associated with multiphase veins, stockwork and hydrothermal breccias. The Mocoa deposit is roughly cylindrical, with a 600-metre diameter. High-grade copper-molybdenum mineralization continues to depths in excess of 1,000 metres. 1 For further information refer to National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") Technical Report, entitled "Technical Report on the Mocoa Copper-Molybdenum Project, Colombia", dated January 17, 2022, prepared by Michael Rowland Brepsant, FAusIMM, Robert Sim, P.Geo, and Bruce Davis, FAusIMM. with an effective date of November 01, 2021. About Libero Copper Libero Copper is led by a team with rare experience-having advanced projects from post-resource discovery to the path of construction, including some of the few large copper projects built in the last 20 years. This real-world expertise drives Libero Copper's focus on relationships, responsibility, trust, and a relentless commitment to sustainable progress. At the core of Libero Copper's portfolio is the Mocoa copper-molybdenum porphyry deposit in Putumayo, Colombia. Mocoa stands as a cornerstone asset with immense potential for expansion. Now, with the Fiore Group's bold company-building vision behind it, Libero Copper is uniquely positioned to fill a crucial gap in the copper industry-advancing large-scale projects toward construction. Through this approach, Libero Copper is committed to creating lasting value for all stakeholders while positioning itself at the forefront of meeting the growing global demand for copper-the metal driving progress in the modern economy Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release includes forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements within, other than statements of historical fact, including statements regarding the expansion of the existing resource at Mocoa, anticipated future drilling and other activities and achievements of the Company, including but are not limited to: the potential for the Mocoa Project resource estimate to expand in size, the timing and completion of the Montclar Bridge, the belief that all necessary permits are currently in place for the initial phase of the Mocoa Project, and the timing and success for the advancement of the Mocoa Project, are to be considered forward looking. Although Libero Copper believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices and volatility with the Company's common shares, exploitation and exploration successes, uncertainty of reserve and resource estimates, risks of not achieving production, continued availability of capital and financing, processes, permits and filing requirements, risks related to operations in foreign and developing countries and compliance with foreign laws and including risks related to changes in foreign laws and changing policies related to mining and local ownership requirements in Colombia, and general economic, market, political or business conditions and regulatory and administrative approvals. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements. SOURCE Libero Copper & Gold Corporation Additional Information: Libero Copper & Gold Corp. Ian Harris, Chief Executive Officer +1 604 294 9039, harrris@liberocopper.com Tetiana Konstantynivska, Vice President Investor Relations +1 778 829 8455 tk@liberocopper.com TORONTO, Jan. 06, 2025 - Sparton Resources (TSX-SRI-V), ("the Company"), is pleased to announce that news of positive developments continues to flow from China following the signing of Definitive Agreements (the "Agreements") between the Company's 9.98%-owned VRB Energy Inc. ("VRB Energy"), a subsidiary of privately held Shanxi Red Sun Co., Ltd. ("Red Sun"), and certain other affiliates, finalizing the terms of the transaction announced previously. The chronology of progress to date is as follows: On October 15, 2024, the parties signed the definitive agreements for the formation of the VRB China joint venture. On October 18, 2024, a ground breaking ceremony was held in Changzi, Shanxi Province, China, marking the construction of a 3GWh capacity vanadium flow battery manufacturing base. On December 11, 2024, the signing of a strategic cooperation agreement with Huadian Group and certain other parties, including the development of a 10 MWh storage project in Hunan Province was announced. On December 25, 2024, the first phase of the new facility in Changzi, Shanxi Province achieving initial production was announced. It was also noted that the Lubao Group, Red Sun's party acting in concert, has invested in high-quality vanadium mines in western Hunan Province. In 2023, VRB China entered into a joint venture with Chengde Vanadium Titanium Co., Ltd. the second-largest producer of vanadium in China. These investments ensure a stable supply of vanadium resources and electrolyte production for future projects. On December 30, 2024, VRB China announced that VRB China's VRB Pod series (100kW-1000kW configurations) had passed strict quality inspection, and a unit had been accepted for delivery and shipped to a customer in Okinawa, Japan. This marks the entry into the global market of standardized products (100kW to 1000kW configurations). The system provided by VRB China is being used for integration with solar electricity production and should ensure the stability of power supply in an area where natural disasters such as typhoons frequently occur. For details, please see: https://www.vrbenergy.com.cn/Home/news/news/cid/18.html "The combination of Red Sun's ability to execute the Joint Venture programs very quickly, and VRB Energy's advanced technological inputs, have resulted in these incredible achievements in a very short time. It is very rewarding to see this progress and we congratulate the Joint Venture on these accomplishments," remarked Company President A. Lee Barker. Sparton's interest in the flow battery industry is a 9.98% interest in VRB Energy held through Sparton's 90% interest in VanSpar Mining Inc. This translates into an indirect 4.4% interest held by the Company in the Joint Venture. Full information regarding the history of the Company's VRB Energy investment is available in its various news releases and corporate filings available at www.sedarplus.ca, and on the Sparton website at www.spartonresources.com. For more information contact: A. Lee Barker, M.A. Sc., P. Eng. President and CEO Tel./Fax: 647-344-7734 or Mobile: 416-716-5762 Email: info@spartonres.ca Website: www.spartonres.ca Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements Information set forth in this news release involves forward-looking statements under applicable securities laws. The forward-looking statements contained herein include, but are not limited to, financings and transactions being pursued, and all such forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements included in this news release are made as of the date hereof and the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable securities legislation. Although the Company believes that the expectations represented in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct and, accordingly, undue reliance should not be put on such forward-looking statements. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described herein. We Seek Safe Harbour VANCOUVER, January 6, 2025 - Q Precious & Battery Metals Corp. ("QMET" or the "Company") (CSE:QMET) is pleased to provide an update on targeting for diamond drilling at their La Corne South project located north of Val d'Or, Quebec. As previously summarized (November 2024), drill holes that have been completed to date were designed to test coincident TDEM conductors with magnetic highs. As reported in previous news releases, results from hole 24LCS-01 indicate robust VMS-style mineralization containing elevated copper, zinc, silver, and gold. Continued drilling is planned for early 2025. The company's geologic team has continued to investigate the geophysical survey data, including 3-dimensional modeling of the TDEM survey results. The successful drilling of the TDEM anomaly at holes 24LCS-01 to 24LCS-03 indicates that these targets are of primary interest for further testing. The geophysics shows a cluster of TDEM anomalies further to the south. In particular, TDEM anomalies EMG-1 and EMG-2 have been targeted for diamond drill testing. Maxwell Plate Modeling of these anomalies using Mircomine software indicates that EMG-1 and EMG-2 may be located within the same volcanic horizon that strikes general north to northwest and dips to the east, with EMG-1 being at depth beneath EMG-2 (see inserted figure). This makes for a very attractive drill target for initial testing planned for this winter. Figure 1 - Maxwell thin plate modeling of EMG-1 (blue) and EMG-2 (red). Topographic surface in green The geophysics indicates a possible corridor of magnetic and electromagnetic anomalies over a two kilometer strike. The corridor is open to the northwest where surveying has yet to be completed, and the company plans to extend the geophysical surveying in that direction once exploration resumes. The company is looking forward to receiving results from holes 24LCS-02 and 24LCS-03 which will aid in exploration planning. Explo-Logik Inc, located in Val d'Or, is managing exploration including core logging and sampling at their facility. A total of 278 samples of core from the first three holes were directly delivered by Explo-Logik staff to the ALS laboratory in Val d'Or, Quebec. The samples underwent ALS ME-MS61L process that uses 4-acid digestion of pulverized samples followed by mass spectrometer detection for 48 elements, and process Au-ICP21 that analyzes for gold, platinum, and palladium using fire assay. For quality assurance and control Explo-Logik inserted blanks, standards, and duplicates at one insert every 10 samples. Q PRECIOUS & BATTERY METALS CORP QMET exploration programs undertaken in Quebec are supervised by Dr. Mathieu Piche, OGQ, with office located north of Val d'Or. He is also a Q Battery Metals company director. The company has 100% interest in mineral claims within Quebec, targeting critical and precious metals. Projects include the La Corne SouthVMS Project, McKenzie East Gold property, as well as the Pontax Lithium and Versant rare earth elements (REE) properties. Cautionary Statement This press release contains forward-looking statements based on assumptions as of that date. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations; they are not guarantees of future performance. The Company cautions that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to exploration and development; the ability of the Company to obtain additional financing; the Company's limited operating history; the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations; fluctuations in the prices of commodities; operating hazards and risks; competition and other risks and uncertainties, including those described in the Company's Prospectus dated September 8, 2017 available on www.sedar.com. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions, and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions, and expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information. On behalf of the Board of Directors Richard Penn CEO (778) 384-8923 SOURCE: Q Precious & Battery Metals Corp. View the original press release on accesswire.com VANCOUVER, Jan. 06, 2025 - Greenridge Exploration Inc. ("Greenridge" or the "Company") (CSE: GXP | OTC: GXPLF | FRA: HW3), is pleased to announce the results from its 2024 Work Program (the "Program") for its Weyman Project (the "Weyman Property" or the "Project") located in Southeastern British Columbia. The Project covers approximately 6,925 acres of land and is comprised of seven (7) staked mineral claims in the southern Quesnel Terrane of British Columbia. Greenridge conducted a 1:5,000-scale reconnaissance mapping program over the whole Weyman Property. The southwestern alteration zone was identified as the most prospective exploration target on the Project. Focus moved to that alteration zone where detailed 1:5,000-scale mapping over 150 hectares was conducted. That area was included in the previously mentioned reconnaissance mapping area. Concurrent with geological mapping, a total metal ion soil survey was conducted over an extensive grid that adjoined the 2021-era western soil grid to the north and west in order to cover both the southwestern alteration zone and almost all of the Weyman Property west of the Weyman Thrust system. The 2024 soil grid comprised twenty-four (24) 2,500-m long lines north of the western 2021 grid and five (5) 1,400-m long lines east of the western 2021 grid comprising a total of 67.0 km of line. A total of 1,269 soil samples were taken at 50-m intervals along each line where soils and drainage permitted. Russell Starr, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, commented, "The results of the preliminary program at the Weyman project are very encouraging. The mapping and soil survey provides many details not previously known about high priority areas. Compiling all available data with these results will be important when designing a follow up work program." Figure 1 - Greenridge Weyman Copper Project - Terrain and Mineralization The northwestern part of the Weyman Property hosts the southern margin of the Wild Horse batholith, a calc-alkalic intrusion in the Eastern Belt of the Quesnel terrane. Rocks comprising the batholith range from granodiorite to quartz diorite, monzonite, and diorite in contaminated boundary zones. The 2024 mapping resulted in the definition of two alteration zones related to the Wild Horse batholith, named the northeastern and southwestern alteration zones due to their locations on the Project. The northeastern alteration zone was discovered on the ridge that runs along the northeastern property boundary in the northeastern part of the Weyman Property. It is hosted by granodiorite of the Wild Horse batholith. There, narrow fractures are hosted by prograde propylitic alteration followed by potassic alteration followed by retrograde propylitic alteration. There is little disseminated alteration throughout the mass of rock. Very little mapping has been conducted on the northeastern alteration zone and its extent remains unknown. The progress of alteration at the southwestern alteration zone was as follows: Prograde propylitic alteration mostly confined to fractures, with mostly brittle deformation probably with temperatures less than 450C. Potassic alteration in fractures and disseminations outward into the rock from them, with temperatures near the brittle-ductile boundary around 450C. Anatectic heating resulting in pervasive silicification and chloritization of mafic minerals throughout both the Wild Horse granodiorite and the overlying Nicola Group volcaniclastic rocks. Retrograde propylitic alteration mostly confined to fractures, with mostly brittle deformation probably with temperatures less than 450C. Figure 2 - Greenridge Weyman Copper Project - Structural Geology Economic sulphide minerals associated with porphyry-type copper-molybdenum-gold deposits, such as chalcopyrite, bornite, and molybdenite were not found in surface outcrops in either of the two alteration zones during the current (2024) mapping. Evidence from the 2021 Monumental Gold western and current (2024) soil survey indicate that the surface exposure of the southwestern alteration zone is in the upper part of the Weyman hydrothermal system above a level of intense mineralization. Presently, the southwestern alteration zone is the primary exploration target on the Weyman Property. The southwestern alteration zone is located in the hanging-wall block of the Weyman Thrust system about 1.9 km west of the main surface trace of that system. The centre of that alteration zone is located in the northern part of the 2014 HPX Quesnellia Eastern Target. It is surrounded by a north-south trending oval of soil-copper anomalies from the 2021 Monumental Gold survey. The oval of 2021-era soil-copper anomalies that surrounds the centre of the alteration zone is interpreted to be the result of copper-bearing fluids that have streamed up from depth beneath the exposure of the alteration zone to surface, late during the operation of the Weyman hydrothermal system. Most of the elevated soil-molybdenum concentrations in the Weyman Property area are structurally related but are assumed to have been from hydrothermal sources originally. The soil-molybdenum anomaly near the northeastern corner of the 2024 Greenridge grid and west of the northeastern end of the Weyman Thrust system is about 500 meters wide on surface. The anomaly is most intense near its distinct northeastern boundary. That indicates that metal-rich fluids may have traveled eastward and upward above the floor of a zone of comparatively high permeability along the Weyman Thrust system. The association of soil-molybdenum anomalies with the Weyman Thrust system throughout its entire length across the Weyman Property indicates that a mineralized zone related to a porphyry-type copper-molybdenum-gold deposit may be present in the western part of the Weyman property from beneath the southwestern alteration zone to the northern boundary of the property, covering a distance of about 4 km. In the southwestern part of the Project area, the most obvious potential source area for the molybdenum-bearing fluids responsible for the development of molybdenum enrichment along the surface trace of the Weyman Thrust system is a mineralized part of the Weyman hydrothermal system underlying the southwestern alteration zone. In the northwestern part of the property area, the area west of the extensive soil- potassium, copper, and molybdenum anomaly is till-covered. The results of the 2020 Monumental Gold aeromagnetic survey are inconclusive in the northwestern part of the Project area. About Greenridge Exploration Inc. Greenridge Exploration Inc. (CSE: GXP | OTC: GXPLF | FRA: HW3) is a mineral exploration company dedicated to creating shareholder value through the acquisition, exploration, and development of critical mineral projects in Canada. The Company owns or has interests in 28 projects covering approximately 388,040 hectares with considerable exposure to potential uranium, lithium, nickel, copper and gold discoveries. The Company is led by an experienced management team and board of directors with significant expertise in capital raising and advancing mining projects. Greenridge has one of the largest uranium property portfolios in Canada consisting of 15 projects covering approximately 212,845 hectares. The Company has opportunities to realize value in a further 12 strategic metals projects which include lithium, nickel, gold, and copper exploration properties totalling ~175,195 hectares. Project highlights include: The Black Lake property, located in the NE Athabasca Basin, (40% Greenridge, 50.43% UEC, 8.57% Orano) saw a 2004 discovery hole (BL-18) return 0.69% U 3 O 8 over 4.4m. O over 4.4m. The Hook-Carter property (20% Greenridge, 80% Denison Mines Corp.) is strategically located in the SW Margin of the Athabasca Basin, sitting ~13km from NexGen Energy Ltd.'s Arrow deposit and ~20 km from Fission Uranium Corp.'s Triple R deposit. The Gibbons Creek property hosts high-grade boulders located in 2013, with grades of up to 4.28% U 3 O 8 and the McKenzie Lake project saw a 2023 exploration program return three samples which included 844 ppm U-total (0.101% U 3 O 8 ), 273 ppm U-total, and 259 ppm U-total. O and the McKenzie Lake project saw a 2023 exploration program return three samples which included 844 ppm U-total (0.101% U O ), 273 ppm U-total, and 259 ppm U-total. The Nut Lake property located in the Thelon Basin includes historical drilling which intersected up to 9ft of 0.69% U 3 O 8 including 4.90% U 3 O 8 over 1ft from 8ft depth. O including 4.90% U O over 1ft from 8ft depth. The Firebird Nickel property has seen two drill programs (7 holes totaling 1,339 m), where hole FN20-002 intersected 23.8 m of 0.36% Ni and 0.09% Cu, including 10.6 m of 0.55% Ni and 0.14% Cu. The Electra Nickel project 2022 drill program included results of 2,040 ppm Ni over 1m and 1,260 ppm Ni over 3.5m. The Company has strategic partnerships which includes properties being operated and advanced by Denison Mines Corp. and Uranium Energy Corp. The Company's management team, board of directors, and technical team brings significant expertise in capital raising and advancing mining projects and is poised to attract new investors and raise future capital. Qualified Person John Ostler, M. Sc., P. Geo, (EGBC Licence # 18415) is a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Mr. Ostler has reviewed and approved the technical content in this release. On Behalf of the Board of Directors of Greenridge Russell Starr Chief Executive Officer, Director Telephone: +1 (778) 897-3388 Email: info@greenridge-exploration.com Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information Certain statements in this news release are forward-looking statements, including with respect to future plans, and other matters. Forward-looking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Such information can generally be identified by the use of forwarding-looking wording such as "may", "expect", "estimate", "anticipate", "intend", "believe" and "continue" or the negative thereof or similar variations. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including but not limited to, business, economic and capital market conditions, the ability to manage operating expenses, and dependence on key personnel. Forward looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements respecting: the Project and its mineralization potential; the results of the Program; the Company's objectives, goals, or future plans with respect to the Project; further exploration work on the Project in the future. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future, anticipated costs, and the ability to achieve goals. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include, the continued availability of capital and financing, litigation, failure of counterparties to perform their contractual obligations, loss of key employees and consultants, and general economic, market or business conditions. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Figures accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ffc3c65d-c800-4568-8233-14251f4b1bcd https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d1b374c0-7848-4a86-8247-174b68d6b512 TORONTO, Jan. 6, 2025 - Canada Nickel Company Inc. ("Canada Nickel" or the "Company") (TSXV: CNC) (OTCQX: CNIKF) will join the federal government's Equal by 30 campaign in an effort to advance and improve career opportunities for women in the Canadian mining industry before the next decade. The Equal by 30 campaign is a commitment by public and private sector organizations around the world to work towards equal pay, equal leadership, and equal opportunities for women, and other marginalized groups, in the clean energy transition sector by 2030 through the endorsement of principles and concrete action. It is a campaign under the Equality in Energy Transitions Initiative - a joint effort between the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) and International Energy Agency (IEA) - which works to accelerate gender equality and diversity in clean energy transitions and close the gender gap by 2030. "Currently, women only make up 16% of the mining industry. Our team at Canada Nickel wants to change this," said Mark Selby, Canada Nickel CEO. "Our board is 33% women and 32% of our workforce is women, our hope is that as our workforce grows we can continue to strive towards 50% and ensure equitable principles are within both our ethos and policies to guarantee this sustainability." Recent statistics from the Canadian Mining Workplace Profile state that the representation of women in the Canadian mining workforce remains low at approximately 16 per cent, compared to 48 per cent across all other industries. As part of its specific commitments related to the campaign to improve best practices in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), Canada Nickel is establishing relationships with local non-profits and stakeholder groups, such as 'Women in Mining', amongst others. Over the next 12-36 months, Canada Nickel will design and implement a phased DEI program, with the goal of increasing gender equality knowledge across its workforce. To ensure fair compensation for women, it will also conduct an annual external market analysis with industry experts to ensure compensation is in alignment with industry best practices. Canada Nickel will also continue to provide comprehensive Workplace Harassment, Violence, and Discrimination Prevention training for all employees, with specialized training for managers to ensure a safe and respectful work environment. "The Government of Canada supports inclusive and fair work environments for everyone. One area where big steps are being made is in the mining sector, which is the economic backbone of many regions of Canada, including northern Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador, and the territories. By advocating for equal representation and pay equity for women in mining, Canada Nickel is committing to the full potential of our workforce across the country, and is promoting innovation, economic growth, and opportunities for all in favour of a stronger, more resilient Canadian economy." - The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Canada You can find more information about the Equal by 30 campaign here. About Canada Nickel Company Canada Nickel Company Inc. is advancing the next generation of nickel-sulphide projects to deliver nickel required to feed the high growth electric vehicle and stainless steel markets. Canada Nickel Company has applied in multiple jurisdictions to trademark the terms NetZero NickelTM, NetZero CobaltTM, NetZero IronTM and is pursuing the development of processes to allow the production of net zero carbon nickel, cobalt, and iron products. Canada Nickel provides investors with leverage to nickel in low political risk jurisdictions. Canada Nickel is currently anchored by its 100% owned flagship Crawford Nickel Sulphide Project in the heart of the prolific Timmins-Cochrane mining camp. For more information, please visit www.canadanickel.com. For further information, please contact: Mark Selby, CEO Phone: 647-256-1954 Email: info@canadanickel.com Sydney Oakes, Director of Indigenous Relations and Public Affairs Phone: 905-929-7151 Email: sydneyoakes@canadanickel.com Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains certain information that may constitute "forward-looking information" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward looking information includes, but is not limited to, the construction of processing facilities, the ability of the Company to deliver nickel required to feed the high growth electric vehicle and stainless-steel markets, and the development of processes to allow the production of net zero carbon nickel, cobalt, and iron products. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Canada Nickel to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. There are no assurances that Crawford will be placed into production. Factors that could affect the outcome include, among others: inability to repay the loan or comply with the covenants set out in the loan agreement; the actual results of development activities; project delays; inability to raise the funds necessary to complete development; general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; future prices of metals or project costs could differ substantially and make any commercialization uneconomic; availability of alternative nickel sources or substitutes; actual nickel recovery; conclusions of economic evaluations; changes in applicable laws; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; accidents, labour disputes, the availability and productivity of skilled labour and other risks of the mining industry; political instability, terrorism, insurrection or war; delays in obtaining governmental approvals, necessary permitting or in the completion of development or construction activities; mineral resource estimates relating to Crawford could prove to be inaccurate for any reason whatsoever; additional but currently unforeseen work may be required to advance to the feasibility stage; and even if Crawford goes into production, there is no assurance that operations will be profitable. Although Canada Nickel 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 to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this news release and Canada Nickel 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 applicable securities laws. 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. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/canada-nickel-joins-equal-by-30-campaign-to-increase-equal-representation-improve-pay-equity-for-women-in-mining-302343202.html SOURCE Canada Nickel Company Inc. Toronto, December 31, 2024 - Lode Gold Resources Inc. (TSXV: LOD) (OTCQB: LODFF) ("Lode Gold " or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has closed $350,000 financing, previously announced on December 12, 2024. A total of 1,944,444 units at $0.18 per unit (each, a "Unit") been issued. Each $0.18 unit shall consist of one common share and one common share purchase warrant. Each warrant shall entitle the holder to purchase one common share at an exercise price of $0.35 per common share for a period of three years following the date of closing. The company may accelerate the expiry date if the shares trade at $0.65 or more for a period of 10 days, including days where no trading occurs. The closing of the offering is expected to occur one business day following receipt of all required regulatory approvals. About Lode Gold Lode Gold (TSXV: LOD) is an exploration and development company with projects in highly prospective and safe mining jurisdictions in Canada and the United States. In Canada, its Golden Culvert and WIN Projects in Yukon, covering 99.5 km2 across a 27-km strike length, are situated in a district-scale, high grade gold mineralized trend within the southern portion of the Tombstone Gold Belt. A total of four RIRGS targets have been confirmed on the property. A NI 43-101 technical report has been completed in May 2024. In New Brunswick, Lode Gold has created one of the largest land packages with its Acadian Gold JV Co; consisting of an area that spans 420 km2 and a 42 km strike. McIntyre Brook covers 111 km2 and a 17-km strike in the emerging Appalachian/Iapetus Gold Belt; it is hosted by orogenic rocks of similar age and structure as New Found Gold's Queensway Project. Riley Brook is a 309 km2 package covering a 25 km strike of Wapske formation with its numerous felsic units. A NI 43-101 technical report has been completed in August 2024. In the United States, the Company is advancing its Fremont Gold project. This is a brownfield project with over 43,000 m drilled and 23 km of underground workings. It was previously mined at 8 g/t Au in the 1940's. Mining was halted in 1942 due the gold prohibition in WWII just as it was ramping up production. Unlike typical brownfield projects that are mined out; only 11% of the veins - in 2 out of 7 deposits have been exploited. The Company is the first owner to investigate an underground high grade mine potential at Fremont. The project is located on 3,351 acres of private and patented land in Mariposa County. The asset is a 4 km strike on the prolific 190 km Mother Lode Gold Belt, California that produced over 50,000,000 oz of gold and is instrumental in the creation of the towns, the businesses and infrastructure in the 1800s gold rush. It is 1.5 hours from Fresno, California. The property has year-round road access and is close to airports and rail. Previously, in March 2023 the company completed an NI 43 101 Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA"). Project Valuation has an after-tax NPV (5%) of USD $370M at $2000 2 /oz gold, IRR 31% and an 11-year LOM, averaging 118,000 oz per year. At $1,750 /oz gold, NPV (5%) is $217M. The project hosts an NI 43-101 resource of 1.16 Moz at 1.90 g/t Au within 19.0 MT Indicated and 2.02 Moz at 2.22 g/t Au within 28.3 MT Inferred. The MRE evaluates only 1.4 km of the 4 km strike of Fremont property. Three step-out holes at depth (up to 1200 m) hit structure and were mineralized. All NI 43-101 technical reports are available on the Company's profile on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and the Company's website (www.lode-gold.com). QUALIFIED PERSON STATEMENT The scientific and technical information contained in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Jonathan Victor Hill, Director, BSc (Hons) (Economic Geology - UCT), FAusIMM, and who is a "qualified person" as defined by NI-43-101. ON BEHALF OF THE COMPANY Wendy T. Chan, CEO & Director This news release contains information about adjacent properties on which the Company has no right to explore or mine. Readers are cautioned that mineral deposits on adjacent properties are not indicative of mineral deposits on the Company's properties. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release includes "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements included in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements including, without limitation, statements with respect to the completion of the transaction and the timing thereof, the expected benefits of the transaction to shareholders of the Company, the structure, terms and conditions of the transaction and the execution of a definitive agreement, the timing of submission to the CSE and TSXV, Gold Orogen raising an additional $1,500,000 and the anticipated use of proceeds. Forward-looking statements include predictions, projections and forecasts and are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect", "potential", "target", "budget" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions and includes the negatives thereof. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by management based on the business and markets in which the Company operates, are inherently subject to significant operational, economic, and competitive uncertainties, risks and contingencies. These include assumptions regarding, among other things: that the Company and GRM will be able to negotiate the definitive agreement on the terms and within the time frame expected, that the Company and GRM will be able to make submissions to the CSE and TSXV within the time frame expected, that the Company and GRM will be able to obtain shareholder approval for the transaction, that the Company and GRM will be able to obtain necessary third party and regulatory approvals required for the transaction, if completed, that the transaction will provide the expected benefits to the Company and its shareholders. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate and actual results, and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations include adverse market conditions, general economic, market or business risks, unanticipated costs, the failure of the Company and GRM to negotiate the definitive agreement on the terms and conditions and within the timeframe expected, the failure of the Company and GRM to make submissions to the CSE and TSXV within the timeframe expected, the failure of the Company and GRM to obtain shareholder approval for the transaction, the failure of the Company and GRM to obtain all necessary approvals for the transaction, and r other risks detailed from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators, including those described under the heading "Risks and Uncertainties" in the Company's most recently filed MD&A. The Company does not undertake to update or revise any forward-looking statements, except in accordance with applicable law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235731 Vancouver, January 6, 2025 - EMX Royalty Corp. (NYSE American: EMX) (TSXV: EMX) (the "Company" or "EMX") is pleased to announce that the Company has entered into a Royalty Agreement (the "Agreement") with Minera Pampa de Cobre S.A.C. ("MPC"), a Peruvian company focused on restarting production at the Chapi copper mine located south of the city of Arequipa in Peru (the "Chapi Mine"). MPC is owned indirectly by a privately held Canadian company, Quilla Resources Inc. ("Quilla"). Pursuant to the terms of the Agreement, EMX will acquire a royalty interest of up to 2% of Net Smelter Returns ("NSR") on minerals produced from the approximately 26,000 hectare property ("Property Royalty") owned by MPC (see Figure 1), as well as up to a 2% NSR royalty from any minerals that are produced from outside the Property Royalty area, but that are processed at the Chapi Mine processing facilities ("Facilities Royalty"). The Agreement also includes a two-kilometer area of interest ("AOI") around the Property Royalty area, and any property acquired by MPC within this AOI will also be subject to an NSR royalty of up to 2% ("AOI Royalty"). As consideration for the acquisition of the first 1% of the NSR interests, the Company has paid MPC the amount of US$3,000,000. A second 1% NSR interest can be acquired by EMX, at the election of MPC, for an additional US$7,000,000 until February 28, 2025. The Property Royalty is perpetual and cannot be reduced. The Facilities Royalty and the AOI Royalty will be reduced by half (to either 0.5% NSR or 1% NSR - depending on the MPC election) on July 1, 2034. EMX's right to receive royalty payments will be secured by a guarantee from Quilla, and by various personal property and real property security instruments in Peru. EMX's security interests will be subordinated to those of Hartree Partners, LP ("Hartree"), acting as the first lien lender to MPC and Quilla, in accordance with an intercreditor agreement entered into between EMX, Hartree, MPC, and Quilla. EMX is excited by the addition of a high-quality copper royalty to the portfolio that has excellent upside development and exploration potential located in the prolific Paleocene-Eocene copper-molybdenum porphyry belt of Southern Peru. Background on Quilla Quilla is a newly formed Canadian company that recently (December 2024) acquired MPC from Nexa Resources S.A. (NYSE: NEXA), one of the world's top zinc producers with operations in Brazil and Peru. Quilla was founded by Victor Gobitz and a select group of shareholders looking to rapidly build an intermediate-sized base metals company. Mr. Gobitz is a senior mining executive who will be transitioning from his role as President and General Manager for the world class Antamina mine in Peru to lead Quilla. Mr. Gobitz has worked with a number of companies in Peru over recent years including Rio Alto Mining, Compania Minera Milpo (now Nexa Resources Peru), and Compania de Minas Buenaventura, and from his deep knowledge of the mining industry in Peru has assembled an experienced and accomplished team to quickly execute on Quilla's plans to restart copper production at Chapi. Background on the Chapi Mine1 The Chapi Mine is located in southern Peru's Moquegua and Arequipa Departments at an elevation of approximately 2,750 meters, and has ready access approximately 50 kilometers south-southeast from the city of Arequipa. Historical, small-scale copper production, which is poorly documented, occurred intermittently from the 1930s through the early 1980s. Subsequently, between 2006 and 2012 the Chapi Mine produced approximately 5,000 to 8,500 tonnes per annum, initially of copper sulphates from open-pit and underground mining and heap leaching, and later copper cathodes from open-pit mining, heap leaching, and SX-EW (solvent extraction-electrowinning) processing. The grades mined during 2006-2012 were reported as 0.59% - 1.04% copper. The operations were halted in 2012 due to declining copper prices and operational challenges that were mainly related to insufficient ore control on materials delivered to the leach pads. The historical Chapi Mine is comprised of two principal open pits, underground workings, a crushing and grinding circuit, heap leach pads, a solvent extraction plant, an electrowinning copper cathode plant, and related infrastructure including mine camp, office facilities, water supply, and power. Since 2012, Chapi has been maintained under care and maintenance with the principal permits for mining operations remaining in place under a temporary suspension. Chapi Geology and Exploration Upside2 The deposits at Chapi are comprised of sandstone-hosted copper mineralized mantos, partially oxidized and secondarily enriched, that are related to a series of porphyry intrusions. The Chapi Mine lies between, and directly along trend from, some of the world's largest producing porphyry copper deposits, including Cerro Verde and the Cuajone-Quellaveco-Toquepala cluster (refer to inset in Figure 1). All of these deposits and districts, as well as others, comprise the Paleocene-Eocene Cu-Mo porphyry belt of Southern Peru, and contribute to making Peru the second ranked copper producer in the world. The ~26,000 hectare land package owned by MPC, and subject to EMX's royalty interests, includes historical resources based on an extensive drill database that delineates the well-mineralized, leachable manto horizons at Chapi, which are open for potential resource expansion from both open pit and underground exploitation. Porphyritic intrusions, intimately associated with the mineralized mantos, have low-grade copper mineralization in sericitic-altered zones, but also have exploration potential for higher-grade copper mineralization within the porphyry system. Further, although gold assays in the drill database are limited in number, those that are present suggest that gold, not recovered by the historical mining operations, might have wider exploration potential. Additional, potentially leachable copper-oxide and chalcocite drill-defined mineralization, as well as primary sulphide mineralization, occurs at the Pampa Negra and Candelaria projects, related to porphyritic intrusions and associated supergene manto horizons that are covered by the Property Royalty or by the AOI Royalty. Furthermore, early-stage exploration targets at San Jose (with drilling), and Justicia prospect areas (no drilling) show evidence of porphyry-style mineralization with some evidence for oxidation of primary sulphides. These deposits provide upside potential for processing at the existing Chapi plant subject to further drilling, engineering, and permitting. Chapi Restart Plans Quilla's near-term plan is to restart Chapi Mine operations utilizing the SX-EW process circuit which is designed to produce a nominal 10,000 tonnes per annum of copper cathode, with the option to potentially increase capacity in the future. Initially, the restart plan is contingent on additional drilling and metallurgical test work, updated resource and reserve modelling, rehabilitation of the mining and leach-processing infrastructure, and updated environmental and other permits. Quilla and MPC have raised the necessary capital to complete the Chapi restart program, and anticipate initial production in H1 2026. Comments on Mines and Districts in the Region. The mines and districts in the region of the Chapi Mine property, which include Cerro Verde and the Cuajone-Quellaveco-Toquepala cluster, provide geological context for EMX's Chapi royalty property. However, this is not necessarily indicative that the Chapi royalty property hosts similar styles, grades, or tonnages of mineralization. Comments on Chapi Background, Geology, and Exploration Upside. EMX has not verified the historical information and data from the previous Chapi operators, but believes this information and data to be reliable and relevant. Updated information and data will result from Quilla's restart program technical work. Dean D. Turner, CPG, a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and consultant to the Company, has reviewed, verified and approved the disclosure of the technical information contained in this news release. About EMX - EMX is a precious and base metals royalty company. EMX's investors are provided with discovery, development, and commodity price optionality, while limiting exposure to risks inherent to operating companies. The Company's common shares are listed on the NYSE American Exchange and TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "EMX". Please see www.EMXroyalty.com for more information. 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 may contain "forward looking statements" that reflect the Company's current expectations and projections about its future results. These forward-looking statements may include statements regarding perceived merit of properties, exploration results and budgets, mineral reserves and resource estimates, work programs, capital expenditures, timelines, strategic plans, market prices for precious and base metal, or other statements that are not statements of fact. When used in this news release, words such as "estimate," "intend," "expect," "anticipate," "will", "believe", "potential" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, which, by their very nature, are not guarantees of the Company's future operational or financial performance, and are subject to risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause the Company's actual results, performance, prospects or opportunities to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties and factors may include, but are not limited to unavailability of financing, failure to identify commercially viable mineral reserves, fluctuations in the market valuation for commodities, difficulties in obtaining required approvals for the development of a mineral project, increased regulatory compliance costs, expectations of project funding by joint venture partners and other factors. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this news release or as of the date otherwise specifically indicated herein. Due to risks and uncertainties, including the risks and uncertainties identified in this news release, and other risk factors and forward-looking statements listed in the Company's MD&A for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 (the "MD&A"), and the most recently filed Annual Information Form ("AIF") for the year ended December 31, 2023, actual events may differ materially from current expectations. More information about the Company, including the MD&A, the AIF and financial statements of the Company, is available on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca and on the SEC's EDGAR website at www.sec.gov. Figure 1. EMX's Chapi royalty property and AOI, southeast Peru. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/1508/236195_6341df32242d9a93_002full.jpg 1 Background and production information taken from internal, proprietary reports and documents by historical operators, as well as "Memoria Anual" reports filed with the Peruvian government by historical operator Compania Minera Milpo S.A.A. 2 Geology and exploration upside taken from EMX's due diligence field review and review of internal, proprietary reports and documents from historical operators, as well as "Memoria Anual" reports filed with the Peruvian government by historical operator Compania Minera Milpo S.A.A. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236195 Next article: Willfully causing financial loss to the State: Expanding the frontiers Previous article: This is how much pensioners will earn in 2025 after todays 12% increase by SSNIT Featured See the List of FX Brokers authorised to operate on the Ghana Interbank FX Market Kweku Zurek Business News Jan - 06 - 2025 , 07:17 The Bank of Ghana has released the list of authorised foreign exchange (FX) brokers permitted to operate on the Ghana Interbank FX Market for the calendar year 2025. The authorisation, effective from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025, ensures that these brokers comply with Section 3.13.1 of the Ghana Interbank Forex Market Conduct Rules. According to the rules, Local and International FX Brokers who want to operate in Ghanas forex market are required to obtain prior approval from the Bank of Ghana at the beginning of every calendar year. Authorised brokers The following FX brokers have been authorised by the Bank of Ghana: Advertisement 1. IC Securities 2. SIC Brokerage 3. Black Star Brokerage 4. Serengeti Limited 5. Obsidian Acherner 6. Regulus 7. Sarpong Capital 8. Terika Financial Services Ltd 9. Laurus Africa 10. Shadeya International Investments Ltd 11. Savvy Securities 12. GFX Brokers 13. Crown Agents (Cross-Border Payments and Financial Services Providers) 14. CSL Capital (Cross-Border Payments and Financial Services Providers) 15. StoneX Financial Limited (Cross-Border Payments and Financial Services Providers) Compliance and post-authorisation conditions The Bank of Ghana emphasised its authority to delist any FX broker for non-performance or non-compliance with the Foreign Exchange Act 2006 (Act 723), the Interbank FX Market Conduct Rules, and the Post-Authorisation Guidelines for Forex Brokers. The authorised brokers must adhere to several post-authorisation conditions, including submitting daily reports on pricing and volumes, refraining from holding or trading forex for their own accounts, and maintaining robust systems against cybercrime. Additionally, cross-border payments and financial services providers must align pricing with market dynamics and ensure partnerships with no more than five banks for forex flow termination. Read the entire notice below; BANK OF GHANA NOTICE NO: BOG/FMD/2025/01 AUTHORISED FX BROKERS BY BANK OF GHANA Section 3.13.1 of the Ghana Interbank Forex Market Conduct rules stipulates: Local and International FX Brokers who want to operate in Ghanas forex market are required to obtain prior approval from the Bank of Ghana at the beginning of every calendar year. In line with the above, the Bank of Ghana has given authorisation for the underlisted FX Brokers to operate on the Ghana Interbank FX market effective January 01, 2025, to December 31, 2025. 1. IC Securities 2. SIC Brokerage 3. Black Star Brokerage 4. Serengeti Limited 5. Obsidian Acherner 6. Regulus 7. Sarpong Capital 8. Terika Financial Services Ltd 9. Laurus Africa 10. Shadeya International Investments Ltd 11. Savvy Securities 12. GFX Brokers 13. Crown Agents (Cross-Border Payments and Financial Services Providers) 14. CSL Capital (Cross-Border Payments and Financial Services Providers) 15. StoneX Financial Limited (Cross-Border Payments and Financial Services Providers) The Bank of Ghana reserves the right to delist any authorised FX Broker for non-performance or non-compliance with the Foreign Exchange Act 2006 (Act 723), the Interbank FX Market Conduct rules and the Post Authorisation Guidelines for Forex Brokers. **(SGD.) Sandra Thompson (Ms.)** **The Secretary** *2nd January 2025* --- **POST AUTHORISATION CONDITIONS AS AN FX BROKER** i. On each trading day, authorised FX brokers shall be required to send to the BoG an interim report mid-day and end of day report when the market closes and should cover pricing and volumes. This report shall be sent to fxbrokers@bog.gov.gh. ii. FX brokers shall adhere to all applicable requirements under the Ghana Interbank FX Market Conduct rules. Bank of Ghana (BoG) shall impose penalties and/or revoke authorisation if any FX broker is deemed to have deviated from any of the Ghana Interbank FX Market Conduct rules. iii. An FX broker shall apply for a renewal of authorisation as an FX broker in Ghana by the end of the first working week of December of every calendar year. iv. Restructuring of the FX broker, e.g., mergers, takeovers and any other significant changes (e.g. change of company name, etc.), must be reported to the BoG without delay. In the event of restructuring and/or changes to the FX brokers regulatory status, proof must be provided that the regulatory authority has either approved or has not objected to such changes. v. An FX broker shall not take the other side of customer trades, nor should the trade be outsourced to any single third party who can skew the price according to their own trading book. If the counterparty makes its own price, then the FX broker should seek a best price from a reasonable array of wholesale market makers. vi. An FX broker shall not buy or sell foreign exchange for its own account, nor hold, borrow or lend foreign exchange to an authorised market participant. vii. An FX broker shall not deal directly with any corporate entity and is required to be an intermediary between banks on the Interbank Forex Market. viii. FX brokers are to operate on a commission basis and should not include their commissions as spreads in pricing trades. ix. An FX broker must have a robust system in place with the required safeguards against cybercrime and other forms of internet or other technology threats in line with the Bank of Ghanas Cyber Security Directives. x. An FX broker shall quote exchange rates that are based on actual transactions within the domestic economy in Ghana and may be required to provide evidence of that as deemed necessary. --- **POST AUTHORISATION CONDITIONS FOR FX BROKERS IN RESPECT OF CROSS-BORDER PAYMENTS AND FINANCIAL SERVICES PROVIDERS** i. On each trading day, authorised Cross-Border Payments and Financial Services Providers shall be required to send to the BoG an end-of-day report when the market closes. This should cover pricing, volumes, and the source of inflow. This report shall be sent to fxreturns@bog.gov.gh. ii. Cross-Border Payments and Financial Services Providers shall desist from aggressively pricing forex. They are to ensure that their pricing reflects market dynamics and falls within the revealed rates by their banks. iii. Cross-Border Payments and Financial Services Providers shall have up to a maximum of five (5) partner banks for the purposes of termination of forex flows. iv. Cross-Border Payments and Financial Services Providers shall apply for a renewal of authorisation to operate in Ghana by the end of the first working week of December of every calendar year. v. Restructuring in the form of mergers, takeovers, and any other significant changes (e.g., change of company name, etc.), must be reported to the BoG without delay. In the event of restructuring and/or changes, proof must be provided that the regulatory authority has approved or not objected to such changes. vi. A Cross-Border Payment and Financial Services Provider must have a robust system in place with the required safeguards against cybercrime and other forms of internet or other technology threats in line with the Bank of Ghanas Cyber Security Directives. vii. A Cross-Border Payment and Financial Services Provider must desist from engaging or interfacing with Money Transfer Operators (MTOs). viii. Bank of Ghana (BoG) shall revoke the authorisation if any Cross-Border Payments and Financial Services Provider is deemed to have breached any of the conditions. Featured Nigerias Nathaniel Bassey to minister at Donald Trumps inaugural prayer breakfast Vanguardngr.com Showbiz News Jan - 05 - 2025 , 23:12 2 minutes read Renowned Nigerian gospel artist and pastor, Nathaniel Bassey, has been invited to minister at the Presidential Inaugural Prayer Breakfast for U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on January 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C. The Akwa Ibom-born cleric announced the invitation on his Instagram page, sharing a poster of the event and writing: Lets raise a sound in America. See you on January 20, 2025. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the U.S. Presidential Inaugural Prayer Breakfast is a non-political, faith-based event held every four years before the swearing-in of a new administration. It focuses on prayer and worship as spiritual support for the U.S. government and presidency. This edition will take place at the prestigious Waldorf Astoria Presidential Ballroom, hosted by Reverend Merrie Turner. The event features a lineup of distinguished speakers, including Dr. Alveda King and Pastor Mario Bramnick, ahead of the swearing-in of Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance. Advertisement Bassey, known for his powerful worship music and as the convener of the Hallelujah Challenge, an online Christian worship movement, has gained global recognition for songs like Imela, Onise Iyanu, and Olowogbogboro. His music, which spans genres such as jazz, hymns, and medleys, has made him one of Nigerias most celebrated gospel ministers. In 2024, his contributions were further recognized when the Mayor of Albany, New York, declared October 6 as Pastor Nathaniel Bassey Day. Featured H. Kwesi Prempeh on why NDC MPs-elect should have announced preference for Bagbin as Speaker and not Mahama Prof H. Kwesi Prempeh Opinion Jan - 05 - 2025 , 22:17 2 minutes read Choosing the Speaker of Parliament, head of the second branch of the State, is a constitutional duty and prerogative of the Members of an incoming Parliament voting individually by sacret ballot. It is to be expected that the President, being head of Government, would have a strong interest and influence in the choice of Speaker, as the occupant of the Speaker's chair must work closely with the President and his Ministers to ensure the smooth running of government. In particular, where, as in the incoming Parliament, the party of the President also controls an overwhelming majority of the seats in Parliament, the President's preference for Speaker should be expected to carry great weight in the MPs' decision. So, there is nothing wrong for the President to publicly express and indicate his preference for Speaker and to urge or admonish his party MPs to vote to elect his preferred choice for Speaker. Advertisement However, we must not entrench the impression or practice in the 4th Republic where the Speaker is seen as a nominee of the President, as this press release implies. This is one of the legacies and features of our Imperial Presidency that further subordinates the Legislature to the Executive. We should move away from that. It will have been more proper if the attached letter read as follows: "The Members of Parliament-elect of the National Democratic Congress, [having consulted with the National Executive of the Party], have agreed collectively to support the nomination and re-election of the Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Badgin, Speaker of the 8th Parliament, as Speaker of the 9th Parliament." The President-elect can then freely announce his endorsement of this choice. But for the President-elect to "mandate"? What is that!!! What is worth doing is worth doing properly. Having said that, I congratulate the Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin, Speaker of the 8th Parliament, on securing the support of the Majority Party or caucus in incoming Parliament for his re-election as Speaker of the 9th Parliament of the Republic of Ghana. Next article: H. Kwesi Prempeh on why NDC MPs-elect should have announced preference for Bagbin as Speaker and not Mahama Featured RODNEYS POTPOURRI: Transition blues Rodney Nkrumah-Boateng Opinion Jan - 06 - 2025 , 14:08 5 minutes read I am not quite sure whether I prefer the quick, British style of post-election transition to the lingering, lame-duck inducing American version that we have incorporated into our constitution, albeit with slight variations. Under the British system, the results are quite clear by dawn following the closure of polls at 10pm the previous day. If the party in government has lost the elections, the Prime Minister would usually appear in front of his or her official residence, 10 Downing Street, deliver a concession speech and then immediately head off to Buckingham Palace to formally bid the monarch farewell. The removal vans would have arrived earlier in the morning to cart the familys belongings out through the back door. Advertisement The leader of the opposition party that has won the elections would usually sweep into Buckingham Palace shortly after his or her predecessor has left, for the monarch to formally invite him or her to form the next government. The freshly-minted Prime Minister would then be driven to Downing Street, where he or she would give a short address to the nation, and then go indoors to settle in as the delivery vans get busy moving the familys belongings in through the back. Simple. Clinical. No grand, fancy inauguration. Given our 50 per cent Plus One rule together with the prospect of a runoff, as occurred in the 2008 presidential elections, our transition period (currently one month) serves as a buffer for such situations and therefore does make some good sense, as I am sure the framers of our constitution must have reasoned. Transition tantrums, tensions Our Presidential Transition Act 2012 (Act 845) provides ample meat to fill up the skeleton of the constitutional provisions by providing guidance on the setting up of the transition team, among several others, to facilitate the smooth transfer of power. However, there seems to be a growing perennial fight in the public square anytime power is about to change hands from NPP to NDC or vice versa. In the case of both former President Mahama and President Akufo-Addo, eyebrows were and have been raised over decisions in the twilight of their presidencies, including various statutory appointments and the signing of contracts. On each occasion, the incoming opposition party has loudly protested against these, citing unfairness, and the government of the day has strongly defended the incumbent presidents decisions, arguing that he remains president with full executive powers until the day his presidency ends. If collectively, we believe as a country that the powers of an outgoing president need to be curtailed during the transition period, we must have that discussion and agree on what specific powers ought to be so curtailed, and then amend the Presidential Transition Act accordingly. The rather noisy, convenient swapping of arguments during transition from one party to another, depending on which side one finds oneself smacks of hypocrisy. Further, the growing spectacle of itchy foot soldiers of an opposition party with overflowing adrenalin juices waiting to come into government following an election win and thus invading various state establishments and even public toilets in a bid to take over ahead of the new government taking office is becoming rather alarming. Whilst the heady excitement following a long drought in opposition is understandable, the violence or threat of violence in such situations definitely is not. To be fair, the transition period following both the 2016 and 2024 elections were characterised by such ugly incidents. Many also insist that our transition periods enable crooked outgoing state officials to loot the state by rushing deals through and/or cover their tracks ahead of the handover, leading to lots political tensions. All these, among others, make me yearn rather dreamily for the quite clinical, swift British approach to transitions, however reasonable our current system is within the context of our constitutional architecture. Fond memories, salty tears Todays presidential inauguration brings fond memories of my overnight trip from Kumasi to Accra exactly eight years ago to witness the inauguration of President Akufo-Addo, resplendent in my white kaftan, beaming with smiles and waving a miniature national flag whilst exchanging hearty greetings with delighted party faithful. There seems to be an almost unspoken rule that whilst presidential inaugurations are a national affair, supporters of the party that has lost the general election simply do not show up at the event and rather watch the proceedings from home on television (if they can bear to do so), whilst weeping salty tears silently into their beer glasses and wincing not-so-slightly every now and then over what could have been. Well, my political tears dried up long ago, so no salty flavour for my beer when I plant myself before my television, thank you very much. But an NDC friend advises that I have my handkerchief and a bucket on standby, just in case my tear ducts burst their banks. I have pointedly ignored his advice. Vox Populi, Vox Dei Of course, I would have wished that a Bawumia would hold the sword of state aloft today to take the oath. But as my Latin tutor Mr. Acheampong taught me at Opoku Ware School four decades ago, Vox Populi, Vox Dei the voice of the people is the voice of God. In our neck of woods on this continent, it is quite a big deal for political power to shift peacefully from one political party to another, even if we have successfully done so three times under this republic. Above all the bantering and the heated political disagreements, for the sake of our beloved republic, I wish President Mahama and the NDC well during their tenure. May our democracy, imperfect as it is, continue to endure. The writer, Rodney Nkrumah-Boateng is Head, Communications & Public Affairs Unit, Ministry of Energy. E-mail: rodboat@yahoo.com Next article: Nurse arrested for breaking bones of newborn babies in hospital NICU Featured Chinese special envoy to attend President-Elect Mahamas inauguration Kweku Zurek International News Jan - 06 - 2025 , 16:46 1 minute read Chinese President Xi Jinpings special envoy, Hao Mingjin, Vice Chairperson of the Standing Committee of the National Peoples Congress, will represent China at the inauguration of Ghanas President-elect, John Dramani Mahama. The announcement was made by Guo Jiakun, spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, on Monday. "At the invitation of the government of the Republic of Ghana, President Xi Jinpings special envoy and Vice Chairperson of the Standing Committee of the National Peoples Congress Hao Mingjin will attend President John Dramani Mahamas inauguration in Accra, the capital city of Ghana, on January 7," Mr Jiakun stated. High-profile event The inauguration, scheduled for Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at the Black Star Square in Accra, is expected to draw dignitaries from across the globe. Confirmed attendees include Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Kenyan President William Ruto, and delegations from the European Union, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Advertisement The event will also host two vice presidents, one speaker of parliament, two former presidents, and representatives from several international organisations, including the Commonwealth and the African Development Bank (AfDB). Schedule of events The ceremony will begin with guests being seated by 8:30am. Members of Parliament and other invited guests will then take their places. At 11am, the Speaker of Parliament will escort the President-elect and Vice President-elect to the Chamber, where formal proceedings will commence. Next article: Brazil ex-official returns toilet she had removed from office Featured Nurse arrested for breaking bones of newborn babies in hospital NICU GraphicOnline International News Jan - 06 - 2025 , 07:55 3 minutes read A registered nurse has been arrested following a series of disturbing incidents involving unexplained injuries to newborns in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Henrico Doctors' Hospital in Virginia, USA. Erin Elizabeth Ann Strotman, 26, was taken into custody early Friday morning and charged with malicious wounding and child abuse causing serious injury. Her arrest comes as police continue to investigate a string of similar cases from 2023 and 2024. Erin Elizabeth Ann Strotman, 26, was taken into custody early Friday morning and charged with malicious wounding and child abuse causing serious injury. Unexplained fractures and hospital shutdown Advertisement The investigation began after three newborns in the hospitals NICU sustained unexplainable fractures in November and December 2024. A similar series of incidents involving four babies had been reported in the summer of 2023. "In late November/December, we discovered that three babies in our Henrico Doctors Hospital NICU had unexplainable fractures, similar to an incident involving four babies in the summer of 2023," the hospital said in a statement. In response, the NICU was closed to new admissions on Christmas Eve. Hospital officials increased security, installed surveillance systems, and implemented new safety protocols, including requiring an observer to accompany any clinician entering a babys room. While fractures occasionally happen with pre-term babies since they lack full fetal bone development, we are actively working to determine how these fractures occurred, the hospital said. Parental outcry and emotional impact Dominique Hackey, the father of one of the victims, expressed mixed emotions after learning of Strotmans arrest. His son, one of a pair of twins, suffered a tibia fracture in September 2023, which was later confirmed to be caused by physical abuse. "Finally we can get some answers as to who abused our son," Hackey told Fox News Digital. "I wish I could say it was a happy moment learning of her arrest; however, learning the details involving the other babies, the only feeling I have is sadness and regret. Hackey, whose wife is a former NICU nurse, reported the injury to social services. However, the case remained unresolved until Henrico police linked it to other similar incidents. Investigation ongoing Henrico County police have reopened previously closed cases and are reviewing hours of surveillance footage provided by the hospital. We appreciate the families and publics patience as we work as thoroughly and expeditiously as possible to investigate every piece of evidence in connection to these cases," said Henrico Police Chief Eric English. "I would also like to acknowledge the unwavering efforts of our detectives. Strotman, who resides in Midlothian, a Richmond suburb, is under scrutiny for additional cases. All of the previously closed cases related to these incidents have been reopened, police said in a statement. Court records reveal that her prior legal history includes only minor traffic offences. She was arraigned Friday morning in Henrico Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court. Hospital response HCA Healthcare, which owns Henrico Doctors' Hospital, expressed shock and sadness over the development. "We are both shocked and saddened by this development in the investigation and are focused on continuing to care for our patients and providing support to our colleagues who have been deeply and personally impacted by this investigation," the hospital said. Public appeal for information Police have encouraged anyone with information about the incidents to contact detectives via email at police@henrico.gov, visit P3tips.com, or call Crime Stoppers at 804-780-1000. Hope amid tragedy Amidst the tragic revelations, Hackeys son has made a full recovery. He is a very adventurous little boy, his father said. This case has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the importance of vigilance in safeguarding vulnerable patients and the ongoing need for transparency and accountability in healthcare settings. Previous article: See the roads in Accra that will be closed on Tuesday for Mahama's inauguration Featured 21 African heads of state, foreign dignitaries to attend Mahama's inauguration Mohammed Ali Jan - 06 - 2025 , 15:25 1 minute read Twenty-one Heads of State will join a high-level delegation of foreign dignitaries for President-elect John Dramani Mahama's inauguration ceremony in Accra on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. The Ministry of Information confirmed in a January 6, 2025 statement that the international guests include three Vice Presidents, four Ministers, and 24 envoys, demonstrating significant diplomatic support for Ghana's presidential transition. The Ministry expressed appreciation for the "overwhelming support and solidarity from the international community" ahead of the ceremony at Parliament House. The government has implemented comprehensive security and logistical arrangements for the visiting dignitaries, including temporary road closures around key venues from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM on inauguration day. Advertisement The acting Chief Director at the Ministry of Information, Lily-Fati Soale signed the official announcement, which also outlined media coverage plans and traffic management protocols for the event. Previous article: All you need to know about President-elect John Mahamas inauguration ceremony Featured As long as I remain Governor of BoG, none of those revoked banking licenses will be reinstated - Dr Addison Mohammed Ali Jan - 05 - 2025 , 20:01 2 minutes read The Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr Ernest Addison has reiterated that the licenses of banks revoked during the 2017-2019 financial sector reforms will not be reinstated as long as he remains in office. In a television interview with JoyNews aired on January 2, 2025, Dr Addison responded to appeals for the reinstatement of revoked licenses, saying, as long as I remain Governor, none of those licenses will be reinstated. Dr Addison's statement was in response to questions about the possibility of the incoming government considering the reinstatement of the revoked licenses following appeals by the shareholders of those banks. Dr Addison emphasised that the decisions to revoke the licenses were made after thorough reviews of the institutions operations, many of which were found to have engaged in risky investments and mismanagement of depositor funds. Advertisement These shareholders treated depositors money as their own, using it to fund personal businesses or invest in brick-and-mortar projects that were not liquid enough to make resources available when depositors needed their funds, Dr Addison stated. As long as I remain Governor of BoG, none of those revoked banking licenses will be reinstated - Dr Addison https://t.co/y5mZ5Y65au pic.twitter.com/QOM9QozOnk DailyGraphic GraphicOnline (@Graphicgh) January 5, 2025 The central bank revoked the licenses of nine universal banks, 347 microfinance companies, 39 microcredit companies, 23 savings and loans firms, and eight finance houses during the reform period, consolidating some of these entities under the Consolidated Bank Ghana (CBG) to ensure the continuity of banking services. Dr Addison emphasised the gravity of mismanagement in the collapsed institutions, noting that such practices fundamentally breached the principles of banking. When I give you a banking license, I am giving you permission to take peoples money, not to treat it as your private property, he said, reiterating that the BoGs primary mandate is to protect depositors and maintain financial stability. These are not numbers we generated ourselves, Dr. Addison said, referencing data from Ghanas Statistical Service that confirms the reforms positive impact on the financial sector. He criticised attempts to downplay the reforms necessity and warned that any reinstatement of revoked licenses would undermine the sectors stability. A banking license is a special instrument, and the responsibilities it comes with must be taken seriously, he added. Next article: Wenchi: Church honours 20 girls for keeping their virginity Previous article: As long as I remain Governor of BoG, none of those revoked banking licenses will be reinstated - Dr Addison Featured Ashanti Region gets new Chief Imam GNA Jan - 05 - 2025 , 19:54 2 minutes read Sheikh Abdul Rahman Zakaria has been inaugurated as the new Ashanti Regional Chief Imam at a ceremony supervised by the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu in Kumasi. This follows the demise of the former Regional Chief Imam, Sheik Abdul Mumin Haroun on December 17, last year after leading the Muslim community in the region for 13 years. Dignitaries from all walks of life, including politicians, religious leaders, and chiefs attended the event which also marked the final funeral rites of the revered Islamic Cleric. Sheikh Abdul Mumin Haroun died at the age of 74 after a brief illness at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi. Advertisement The Muslim community in the Ashanti Region looks to the newly appointed Chief Imam with high expectations. Beyond his primary duty of leading prayers and providing spiritual guidance, he is expected to play a pivotal role in promoting unity among the diverse Muslim populace in the region. This unity extends beyond shared beliefs to transcend tribal, sectarian, and political differences, aiming to forge a cohesive community. It is also the expectation that the new Chief Imam will uphold integrity, impartiality, and fairness in his leadership, thus setting a benchmark for others to emulate. Sheikh Abass Karaara was also introduced as the Deputy Regional Chief Imam to assist the substantive Imam in the performance of his duties. The new Chief Imam was presented with a certificate of recognition by the National Chief Imam, symbolising the official approval of his appointment. The ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and government officials. Featured Methodist Church Ghana launches 190th anniversary Augustina Tawiah Jan - 05 - 2025 , 16:20 4 minutes read The Methodist Church Ghana has launched the 190th anniversary of its existence in Ghana. The launching ceremony coincided with what in Methodist circles is known as, Covenant Sunday, where Methodists make a Covenant with God on the first Sunday of the beginning of a new year. The Methodist Church Ghana came into existence in 1835 as a result of missionary activities. In the first eight years of the Churchs life, 11 out of 21 Missionaries who worked in the Gold Coast died. Advertisement Rev Joseph Rhodes Dunwell, who arrived in the Gold Coast in January 1835, and Thomas Birch Freeman, who arrived at the Gold Coast in 1838, were among the foremost missionaries of the church in Ghana. The Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church Ghana, Most Rev Professor Johnson K. Asamoah-Gyadu, who led the leadership of the church to launch the anniversary celebration at Bethany Methodist Church, Dzowulu, today, Sunday, January, explained that the motto of the church, Thy Kingdom Come, which means, we seek the reign of God in the land and in the lives of people, making disciples, and bringing people up to maturity in Christ, would remain one of the anchor themes of the anniversary. He added that the text on which the celebration would be based on was the same as that found in the first page of the Methodist Hymn Book, which is from Colossian 3:16. "The celebrations are to be marked by worship and prayer services, singing festivals, processions, and other such activities meant firstly, to proclaim Jesus Christ as our Lord; secondly, to win souls for Christ; and thirdly to showcase the Methodist faith as handed down to us by the forebears of the faith led by John Wesley internationally, and Joseph R. Dunwell in the local setting. We have a great heritage as Methodists, and it must be celebrated to the glory of God. May Gods name be praised; may His glory be revealed; may His works be acknowledged; and may His Kingdom descend upon his people, our nation, and the world. Thy Kingdom Come." he declared at the anniversary launch to much pageantry. He congratulated Ghanaian Methodists across the globe and invited them to celebrate with them the goodness and mercies of God. He also paid tribute to the Patriarchs and Matriarchs of Methodism beginning with the foreign missionaries who responded to the call of God and at great risk to their lives made the perilous journeys by sea to the then Gold Coast to sow the seeds of the Gospel of Jesus Christ among them. He said currently, not only was the Church present across Ghana, but Ghanaian Methodists had also established immigrant congregations to take the Gospel to the secularizing West, from where missionaries came to serve Gods people in our land. "All this is to say, we have every reason to celebrate not just the goodness of God for our Church and her witness, but also the commitment of the men and women who have laboured to bequeath to us the great legacy called The Methodist Church Ghana. Touching on the impact the church had made in Ghana, Most Rev Professor Asamoah-Gyadu said, a lot of the chaplains who served in the senior high schools and regimented organisations like the Ghana Armed Forces, Prison Service, Ghana Police, and Fire Service, were trained by the mission churches, especially the Methodist Church. Going forward, he said the church would consider strengthening its presence in education, in health care, and other social services, and make sure that as they preached the gospel of Jesus Christ and make salvation for souls, they make their influence felt in the public sectors. The Chairman of the 190th anniversary planning committee, Rt Rev Samuel Kofi Osabutey, mentioned the activities outlined for the anniversary celebration to include, new year school for young people; 190th anniversary; Diocesan float; musical concert, homecoming celebration for members of the church in the diaspora and a thanksgiving service in all societies to climax the anniversary in August. Featured How Police will provide security for Mahamas swearing-in Beatrice Laryea Jan - 06 - 2025 , 18:10 1 minute read The Ghana Police Service has announced extensive security arrangements for the swearing-in ceremony of President-elect John Dramani Mahama and Vice President-elect Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. According to a statement from the police, several roads within Accra will be closed to both vehicular and pedestrian traffic from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. to ensure safety and smooth operations during the event. Affected areas include the Ako Adjei Interchange, AU Roundabout, State House, Osu Cemetery Traffic Light, Independence Square, and surrounding roads. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes, as key roads like the 28th February Road, Starlet 91 Road, and Lokko Street will be diverted. Suggested detours include Salem Avenue and Abdul Nasser-Gamel Road. Advertisement Designated parking areas for attendees are located at the Forecourt of the State House, Effua Sutherland Park, and the Ministry of Food and Agriculture premises. The police have also urged residents within the security perimeter, invited dignitaries, and the general public to follow the guidelines for a peaceful ceremony. In addition, similar security measures are in place for the swearing-in of Members of Parliament-elect and the Speaker of Parliament on Monday, January 6, 2025, at Parliament House. Citizens are encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement to ensure the success of these important national events. Read statement below. Next article: Akufo-Addo throws out Kweku Azar's petition asking for removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo Previous article: 'I am grateful for this great honour' Bagbin accepts role as Speaker of Ghana's 9th Parliament. Featured Sierra Leones President Bio in Ghana for President-elect Mahamas inauguration GraphicOnline Jan - 06 - 2025 , 22:07 2 minutes read Sierra Leones President, Julius Maada Bio, departed Freetown for Accra to attend the inauguration of Ghanas President-Elect, John Dramani Mahama. The ceremony, scheduled for Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at the iconic Black Star Square in Accra, marks a significant milestone in Ghanas democratic journey and highlights the countrys unwavering commitment to peaceful political transitions. President Bios attendance underscores Sierra Leones solidarity with Ghana and reaffirms his countrys commitment to fostering close ties with Ghana to promote peace, prosperity, and unity across the West African region and beyond. High-profile event The inauguration is set to draw an impressive array of dignitaries from around the world, including Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Kenyan President William Ruto, and delegations from the European Union, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Advertisement Other notable attendees include two vice presidents, a speaker of parliament, two former presidents, and representatives from international organisations such as the Commonwealth and the African Development Bank (AfDB). Schedule of events The inauguration ceremony will commence promptly at 8:30am, with guests, Members of Parliament, and other dignitaries taking their seats. At 11am, the Speaker of Parliament will escort President-Elect Mahama and Vice President-Elect Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang to the Chamber for the official swearing-in ceremony. This landmark occasion is expected to cement Ghanas reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa and inspire the broader region to uphold democratic values and peaceful governance. Next article: Sewua Hospital is incomplete, commissioning by President Akufo-Addo is 'illegal' and 'breaches contract' - Euroget Featured Wenchi: Church honours 20 girls for keeping their virginity GNA Jan - 05 - 2025 , 19:32 2 minutes read The Wenchi West District of the Seventh Day Adventist Church (SDA) of the Mid-West Ghana Conference in the Bono Region at the weekend honoured 20 girls for keeping and preserving their virginity. Each of the girls, between the ages of 13 and 16 years received undisclosed sums of money for their upkeep during a thanksgiving service on the side-lines of the observation of the first Sabbath Day of the Church, held at Wenchi. Mrs Nana Amponsah Poku, the Wenchi West District Coordinator of the Young Adventist Women Ministries, commended the girls for keeping their virginity, and urged them to preserve it before marriage. God created you uniquely beautiful and you must not allow anybody to lure and break your virginity until you marry, she urged the girls, and asked them to be cautious about the friends they picked in 2025. Advertisement She said the ministry was dedicated and committed to moulding girls and young women responsibly to grow and become useful adults in society. Mrs Poku underlined the need for society to re-visit ancient traditional norms that protect girls from promiscuity, saying customs such as puberty rites ought to be re-introduced to help preserve the virginity. The ancient Bragoro or Dipo rite was very essential in preserving girls virginity and controlling teenage pregnancies inimical to the growth and development of young girls and women, she stated. Pastor Andrews Dua Bour Kyere, the Associate Pastor of Wenchi West District of the SDA Church, also commended the girls for their shining example of keeping their virginity and urged girls in the Church to remain pure and concentrate on their education. Some of the girls expressed their happiness about the honour, and also thanked the church for their support towards their spiritual upbringing and development. Featured Bagbin thanks Mahama for Speaker re-nomination for 9th Parliament Mohammed Ali Politics Jan - 05 - 2025 , 19:48 1 minute read The current Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has expressed gratitude to President-Elect John Dramani Mahama for mandating the National Democratic Congress (NDC) caucus in Parliament to re-nominate him for consideration as Speaker for the 9th Parliament. In a statement issued on Sunday [Jan 5, 2025], Mr Bagbin acknowledged the trust placed in him, following consultations with NDC National Executives and Parliamentary peadership. I am deeply humbled by His Excellencys confidence in my ability to lead the House as we begin a new chapter in our democratic journey, Mr Bagbin stated. Reflecting on his tenure in the 8th Parliament, Mr Bagbin highlighted his commitment to Ghana and the values of justice, fairness, and the rule of law throughout his parliamentary service. Advertisement Looking to the future, the Speaker assured that he would maintain high standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability in Parliament. He also expressed his intention to strengthen democratic institutions and ensure that Parliament becomes more responsive to the needs of the citizens. Next article: 'My heart leans toward NDC', I genuinely wish to align with NDC in Parliament - A Plus Previous article: The various statements, funny moments, and memorable events in Ghanas 8th Parliament (Video) Featured EC resumes collation in Ablekuma North, Presiding officers in 20 outstanding stations to verify scanned pink sheets Samuel Duodu Politics Jan - 06 - 2025 , 11:32 1 minute read The Electoral Commission (EC) has invited presiding officers to the Greater Accra Regional office as part of efforts to resolve disagreements over 20 outstanding polling station results in the Ablekuma North parliamentary election. This follows a disagreement over the results in the 20 polling stations, which caused the EC to suspend the collation process on Sunday. The Returning Officer had asked for a 24-hour break to enable him to authenticate the scanned copies of the results (pink sheets), submitted by the parties. The EC is expected to announce the winner of the parliamentary election today. Advertisement The Presiding Officers (PO) have reported with the statement of poll and the declarations for them to testify if the scanned copies submitted are their handwriting and the numbers on them are correct, On Sunday, the Returning Officer was able to resolve 42 polling station results out of the 62, which were outstanding in the Ablekuma North constituency. The remaining 20 had some objections, which necessitated the suspension of the process. The Ablekuma North constituency is one of the four disputed constituencies, along with Tema Central, Okaikwei Central, and Techiman South. The Returning Officer of the Ablekuma North Constituency, Vincent Obeng told journalists at the collation centre on Monday morning that "we are here this morning to resolve the issue with the Presiding Officers." more to follow... Next article: EC resumes collation in Ablekuma North, Presiding officers in 20 outstanding stations to verify scanned pink sheets Previous article: NDC caucus to put Akatsi South MP-elect Bernard Ahiafor up for consideration as First Deputy Speaker of Parliament Featured The various statements, funny moments, and memorable events in Ghanas 8th Parliament (Video) Gertrude Ankah Politics Jan - 06 - 2025 , 14:23 2 minutes read The 8th Parliament stands dissolved by close of day January 6, 2025. The video below shows some of the dramatic moments, contentious debates, and groundbreaking decisions. It was a Parliament that witnessed a unique hung equal representation from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), 137 seats each and one independent. Iconic Statements Speaker Alban Bagbins independence declaration: Parliament is not a rubber stamp for the Executive. We are here to serve the people, not any political party. This statement, made during a heated debate, underscored Bagbins resolve to maintain parliamentary independence. Advertisement Haruna Iddrisu on the E-Levy: This E-Levy is a killer tax. It will impoverish Ghanaians further. The Minority Leaders passionate critique became a rallying cry for opposition to the controversial tax policy. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu on budget rejection A budget is not rejected in isolation. Its negotiated, debated, and passed for the good of all Ghanaians. The Majority Leaders response to the Minoritys rejection of the 2022 budget was widely discussed. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa on ministerial oversight Parliament must not be a clearinghouse for incompetence. We owe it to the people to scrutinise every nominee" This statement came during the vetting of ministerial appointees and highlighted Parliaments oversight role. Muntaka Mubarak on voting disputes If the Speakers chair becomes a battleground, then democracy is under threat. His comment during the controversial election of the Speaker resonated with calls for decorum. Funny moments Honorable Members, Please Behave! Speaker Bagbin repeatedly appealed for calm during chaotic sessions, often with exasperation, becoming a running joke among Ghanaians watching proceedings. Sika Mp Dede in Parliament MPs humorously referenced President Akufo-Addos popular statement Sika mp dede (Money dislikes noise) during debates about the economy, drawing laughter across the aisle. MPs fighting over the Speakers chair The dramatic scene during the Speaker election, where MPs physically struggled over the ballot box, became one of the most talked-about moments and inspired countless memes. Bread-and-butter politics An MP jokingly referred to debates as bread-and-butter politics during a discussion on the cost of living, sparking laughter even in a tense session. The "Cash for Votes" incident During the Speaker election, MPs laughingly accused one another of inducing votes with food and money, adding humor to an otherwise intense process. Physical altercations A brawl broke out during the E-Levy vote, with some MPs exchanging blows. The footage went viral and was widely criticized. Walkouts and boycotts The Minority staged several walkouts, including one during the approval of ministerial nominees, citing dissatisfaction with government policies. Tribute to Jerry John Rawlings Parliament paid a heartfelt tribute to Ghanas late former President, showcasing a rare moment of unity. Next article: Bagbin thanks Mahama for Speaker re-nomination for 9th Parliament Previous article: 'My heart leans toward NDC', I genuinely wish to align with NDC in Parliament - A Plus Key memories of Ghanas 8th parliament Gertrude Ankah Politics Jan - 06 - 2025 , 08:42 4 minutes read The 8th Parliament of Ghana, which witnessed unprecedented events, contentious debates, and landmark decisions will be dissolved today [Jan 6, 2025]. With its unique "hung" composition of 137 seats each for the two major political parties, NPP and NDC, the Parliament will be remembered for its achievements and challenges. Composition and leadership drama With an even split of 137 seats for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the balance of power was from an independent MP, Andrew Asiamah Amoako of the Fomena Constituency. This unique arrangement set the stage for dramatic events, beginning with the chaotic election of the Speaker of Parliament. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, a veteran NDC politician. Advertisement The Speaker's election saw MPs physically clashing, ballot box snatching, and a military intervention in the Chamber. Bagbins tenure as Speaker became a defining feature of the 8th Parliament, with his assertive style often challenging the Executives authority. The E-Levy controversy One of the most contentious moments in the 8th Parliament was the debate and passage of the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) in 2022. The levy, which imposed a 1.5% tax on electronic financial transactions, sparked widespread public discontent. The Minority fiercely opposed the bill, walking out of Parliament in protest during its approval. Despite public backlash and legal challenges, the E-Levy was passed by the Majority, highlighting the deep divisions within the House. The levys passage remains a symbol of the tension between the governments revenue generation efforts and citizens economic concerns. Approval of ministerial nominees The approval of ministerial nominees exposed the complexities of a hung Parliament and party loyalty. Some nominees, such as Bryan Acheampong (Minister of Food and Agriculture), Kobina Tahir Hammond (Minister of Trade and Industry), and Stephen Asamoah Boateng (Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs), were approved in votes that split the Minority Caucus. Despite the NDCs official stance against these appointments, some Minority MPs voted in favour, sparking accusations of betrayal and highlighting cracks within the opposition. These approvals underscored the challenges of enforcing party discipline in a politically balanced Parliament. Passage of key legislation Despite its divisions, the 8th Parliament passed several important bills, leaving a lasting legislative impact. Narcotics Control Commission (Amendment) Act, 2023: This law legalised the cultivation of cannabis for industrial and medicinal purposes, marking a significant shift in Ghanas drug policy. Tax Exemptions Bill, 2022: The bill aimed to streamline Ghanas tax exemption regime, addressing long-standing concerns about revenue loss. Criminal Offenses Act Amendment: This landmark amendment abolished the death penalty, positioning Ghana as a leader in human rights reforms in Africa. LGBTQ+ Bill Debate The Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill sparked one of the most heated debates, drawing wide public and international interest. Parliament late passed the anti-LGBTQ bill. Vacant seats and legal battles The declaration of four parliamentary seats as vacant by Speaker Bagbin became a flashpoint in the 8th Parliament. The affected MPs included Sarah Adwoa Safo (Dome-Kwabenya) and Kennedy Agyapong (Assin Central), who were cited for absenteeism. The Supreme Court later ruled that the Speakers actions were unconstitutional, emphasising the need for adherence to due process in declaring parliamentary seats vacant. This ruling served as a significant reminder of the checks and balances within Ghanas democracy. Memorable oversight and scandals The 8th Parliament played a critical oversight role, summoning ministers to answer questions on key national issues. Notable examples include the grilling of Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta over Ghanas economic challenges and the controversial request for a bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). However, the House was not without scandals, including allegations of bribery in parliamentary committees. Such incidents tainted the institutions image and underscored the need for transparency and accountability. Budget approvals and public outcry Annual budget approvals were another source of drama. The 2022 budget, in particular, was fiercely debated, with the Minority rejecting key revenue measures. Public backlash against proposed taxes, including the E-Levy, forced the government to revise portions of the budget to secure parliamentary approval. Legacy of the 8th Parliament As the 8th Parliament dissolves, it leaves a legacy of resilience, contentious decisions, and historic milestones. Its tenure underscored the importance of collaboration in a hung Parliament, the need for political maturity, and the power of legislative oversight in strengthening Ghanas democracy. As Ghanaians look to the 9th Parliament, hopes are high for greater unity and a renewed focus on addressing pressing national challenges. The 8th Parliaments impact will undoubtedly remain a defining chapter in Ghanas democratic journey. The 8th Parliaments legacy is one of resilience, innovation, and hard-fought progress. While it faced criticism for certain actions, it also set new benchmarks for parliamentary independence and accountability. As Ghana transitions to the 9th Parliament, the lessons learned and milestones achieved during this tenure will serve as a guiding light for continued democratic growth. Welcome to the year 2025 and the first installment of our trending chart. As we prepare to start the first full week of the new year we see a phone on top that will likely be there more than a few times through the next 52 weeks. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra will not make its official debut for more than two weeks, but it's already the most discussed smartphone on our website. Right behind it we have one of the first smartphones to be announced in 2025 - the Redmi Turbo 4. We strongly suspect its international version dubbed Poco X7 Pro that will be introduced on January 9 will do at least as well next week. In third and fourth we have the 2024 popularity champions - the Galaxy A55 and the Galaxy S24 Ultra. Samsung Galaxy A55 Redmi Note 13 Pro took fifth, ahead of the Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max and its stablemate, the vanilla Redmi Note 13. Samsung Galaxy A16 is back down to eight, while the Honor X9c enters the chart in ninth. That phone just got introduced for the European market, but under a different name - the Magic7 Lite. The final spot goes to the Redmi Note 14 Pro+, concluding our week 1 chart. There are already a few exciting announcements lined up for the next few weeks so it will be interesting to follow which ones will manage to make the top 10. Keep watching this space! Every year, the first baby born on American soil, on Guam and in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, is celebrated. This year, however, is quite different for the CNMI when a 30-year-old tourist from Shanghai, China gave birth to the first baby of 2025 in the U.S. territory. It renewed concerns about continued birth tourism, where mothers enter the U.S. or its territories for the primary purpose of giving birth so that their newborn will be a U.S. citizen. The CNMIs tourism body unequivocally said it does not support birth tourism, according to Marianas Visitors Authority Executive Director Christopher A. Concepcion. The MVA does not promote birth tourism in our source markets. We never have. We welcome all visitors to the Marianas as long as they enter legally and comply with our laws, he said. It is not illegal for foreigners to give birth in the CNMI or the USA. Concepcion said if the federal government wishes to limit birthright citizenship to those whose parents are already U.S. citizens, thats up to them. The MVA takes no position on this matter, he succinctly said. Newly sworn-in CNMI Del. Kimberlyn King-Hinds said the decision of non-citizens to travel to the Northern Marianas to give birth is counter to the islands goals of establishing a robust immigration and visitor system that will be crucial to the sustainability of the tourism industry. She said the forthcoming implementation of the CNMI Economic Vitality and Security Travel Authorization Program, or EVS-TAP, will provide greater safeguards to screening and processing visitors, a change that is welcomed and long needed. The EVS-TAP was first proposed in 2019 and aims to enhance security measures while ensuring the orderly entry of Peoples Republic of China nationals for tourism purposes. It involves electronic screening, a maximum 14-day stay, and additional security measures for Chinese nationals. Besides the EVS-TAP, there are more ways in which the CNMI local and federal agencies can all collaborate, the delegate said. I look forward to working with CHCC (Commonwealth Healthcare Corp.) to see how communication from federal partners can help craft policies that can disincentivize and deter individuals from considering engaging in this practice, King-Hinds said. But we must acknowledge the main driver of birth tourismbirthright citizenship, granted to the CNMI by the Covenant. She said should the CNMI government determine that this primary driver of birth tourism should end, it has a critical role in showcasing its mutual consent to amend this provision. If done so, it would be the responsibility of the congressional office to secure the federal consent for this change, she said. Indigenous advocate: Somethings amiss Liana Hofschneider said theres something amiss that birth tourism continues to prosper in the CNMI. The Indigenous advocate noted that there are hundreds, if not thousands, of babies delivered in the CNMIs only public hospital, the Commonwealth Health Center, in the last decade or so. The impact on CHC, the only public-serving health institution, is clear in its inability to sustain the cost of its operation in nearly a decade, she said. Hofschneider squarely puts the blame on the CNMIs leaders, local and federal. As an indigenous Chamorro advocate, I am deeply disturbed on the lack of concern by the elected leaders here in the CNMI and the U.S. delegate on the thousands of babies of foreign parents being delivered here and afforded U.S. citizenship both as tourists and work visas, she said. Birth tourism, she said, is not only confined to Chinese tourists, as other nationals such as those from Russia, have taken advantage of Americas jus soli legal principle where being born in the U.S., Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the CNMI automatically grants those born in those places U.S. citizenship, regardless of the nationality of their parents. This tourist market is one of the longest staying, some as long as one month, in the CNMI at five-star hotels like the former Hyatt Regency Saipan. But we must also take into considerations foreign workers on work permits or work visas from countries such as South Korea, the Philippines, Bangladesh, as well as from the Micronesian region whose citizenship are distinctly different, and treaties or agreements are separate and unique to each of the island nationFederated States of Micronesia, Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau with the U.S., she said. Hofschneider then took aim on King-Hinds, whom she lost to in the 2024 general elections, regarding her purported unclear stand on the birth tourism issue. This is not surprising because this is exactly what (her) platform and her aggressive advocacy for an unabated Annex IX policy, which translates to unlimited, open and direct flights from China to the CNMI...King-Hinds failed to share in her platform on her plans on how to address this birthing tourism in the CNMI, Hofscheider said. She also wants a reassessment of the CNMIs Covenant Agreement with the U.S. government as it pertains to the jus soli legal principle. This should be and must be a grave concern to both the U.S. government and the CNMI government. Hence, its a must public policy priority and concern of the CNMIs lone U.S. Congress delegate. Unfortunately, this is not the case, she said. Plug the loophole She also said the U.S. Congress should not continue to turn a blind eye to this loophole in its public policy. Again, as a Chamorro advocate, both the U.S. and the CNMI government have to be concerned on the footprint impact on our environment, our natural resources, our access to quality health care, access to quality of life, access to our sacred spaces, and the risk and impact to our ancestral and indigenous rights to our land and ocean, Hofschneider said. These are serious public policy concerns that need immediate attention at the national and state or local level. She added that this U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service policy impacts self-governance and self-determination on the full and complete decolonization of the Chamorro because population migration was one of the considerations of Covenant Agreement. On a final note, as a former CNMI Division of Immigration employee, Hofschneider said she misses the era when the CNMI had control of its borders. It is my fervent hope that...King-Hinds urgently and diligently work on this birthing tourism immigration fiasco and address this policy loophole now under the USCIS, she added. Bigger issue CNMI House Rep. Edwin K. Propst, meanwhile, said while birth tourism is a concern, CNMI authorities have bigger fish to fry like the entry of illegal drugs from off-island and human trafficking. While birth tourism is a concern, my greatest concern is the possible smuggling of meth, fentanyl, and human trafficking. Before we open up the floodgates, we need to ensure Customs Director Jose Mafnas and his Customs team are fully funded and have enough manpower and equipment to check every single flight coming in from mainland China and to ensure we dont see a smuggling ring operating in the guise of bringing in tourists, Propst said. It is common knowledge that most of our drug lords and drug kingpins here in the CNMI come from China. Lets ensure we dont see mules coming in carrying more illegal drugs. Propst also encouraged CNMI leaders to consider quality over quantity when it comes to choosing the right tourism market for the CNMI. We have proponents of China here that want to open the floodgates to China and allow unlimited direct flights from China, because the ultimate goal is to bring in as many tourists as possible. Thats been our longstanding problem, he said. There are lobbyists here who strictly want to invest and support quantity of tourists versus the quality of tourists. He said if all the CNMI is receiving are low-budget tourists who come to the islands on prepaid package tours, then its questionable whether they help the local economy at all. Are they dining at local restaurants and shopping at local stores and partying at local bars or are they just staying in their hotels and touring around on a prepaid hotel car package deal? he said. In 2019, the CNMI House of Representatives passed a joint resolution that basically says the CNMI Legislature is open to limiting birthright citizenship in the Commonwealth. That resolution seeks to limit birthright citizenship to children whose mother is either legally employed in the CNMI or a citizen of a nation under the Compact of Free Association. A joint resolution means it has to be adopted by both the CNMI House of Representatives and CNMI Senate. It, however, is not a law and merely conveys the sentiment of the CNMI Legislature. Kevin and Emmyann Ngirarois, along with their son and first baby born on American soil in 2025 Konnan Dennis Ngirarois, were greeted by donors and well-wishers as they walked through the glass doors of the Archway Inc. office in Tamuning on Monday. The mother was in tears, filled with emotion as the family received a warm welcome and congratulations. Awaiting them was a mountain of gifts, valued at over $12,000, for them and their son, who was born just 7 seconds into the New Year. Im just so grateful, overwhelmed with just the love weve gotten from everybody since he was born, so Im really grateful, Emmyann Ngirarois, from Mongmong-Toto-Maite, said. From the moment our son was born, for everybodys comments, congratulating us, and then Tracy Baldwin said the blessing was my son. But to have all of this is very nice. So, thank you, everybody. Kevin Ngirarois said hes grateful and feels blessed. A lot of gifts for the new year, a little nervous, but just appreciative of all the help, the father said. Baby Konnan is the Ngirarois couples fourth child. Hes the first baby born on American soil in 2025, at Guam Memorial Hospital in Tamuning. Since 2004, I Love Guam, through Archway Inc., has celebrated the birth of the first baby born in America on Guam with various gifts from generous donors. As the first U.S. territory to ring in the New Year, Guams first baby born each year is honored as the I Love Guam New Years baby. This year, baby Konnan and his family received donations from more than 30 business partners and private donors. Donations included diapers, baby supplies, clothes, toys, cash, in-kind gifts, and other items. Past contributors have also included past New Year babies Kylie Rae Tesalona from 2017 and Eliana Grace Lejano from 2023, whose families also paid it forward with gifts for this years I Love Guam New Years baby. Honored by their donations, the Ngirarois family feels inspired to follow suit. I think its very important, because when you are the one being blessed, its definitely appreciated. So, I think for Kevin and myself, we also maybe want to keep it going and donate something for next years baby, Emmyann Ngirarois said. Because it definitely does feel nice when youre the one being blessed. So, we kind of want to continue that. Having had Konnan home with them for several days since his birth, the family described him as having a very calm and food-focused personality so far. Hes just very chill. He doesnt really cry much, only when he wants to eat, the mother said. When asked if Konnans personality takes more after his mother or father, the couple agreed he takes after his father. The parents said their other children are also overjoyed to have another sibling. Theyre excited for him. They just want to love on him, but hes really tiny, so were just trying to slowly introduce the baby, Emmyann Ngirarois said. But theyre very excited to have him home. Konnans name is derived from having names similar to his fathers and uncles. His middle name, Dennis, is after his paternal grandfather. I think it means a lot to [Kevins] dad, because we definitely did not share that we were going to be naming him after his father. [Kevins] mom actually found out and showed his dad, on the [Pacific Daily] News after it had been published. So, it was kind of a surprise, Emmyann Ngirarois said. Im kind of glad they found it that way, because its the New Year baby, and then you know hes named after you. The Ngirarois family expressed excitement and optimism, as well as gratitude for the communitys support, and are eager to see what lies ahead for their family and their little one. We just want to say thank you to everybody from the beginning, from Doctor [Thomas] Shieh to our we had an amazing labor and delivery nurse. Her name is Audrey, and then just the [Guam Memorial Hospital] staff, Archway, of course, and all the sponsors, Emmyann Ngirarois said. And then, of course, thank you, Guam, again, for making us feel so welcome when baby came. Guam will receive $500.825 million for a federal disaster declaration associated with Typhoon Mawar, which hit Guam in May 2023, Del. James Moylans office announced on Monday. This is a result of the passage of the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2025, which was enacted on Dec. 21, 2024, the delegates office said. Under the appropriations act, Guam will receive $500,825,000 as part of the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery allocation for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, FEMA, Disaster Declaration associated with Mawar. The funding from HUD will undoubtedly address the continued recovery from Typhoon Mawar while helping many families in Guam and stimulating our economy. With all the major natural disasters nationally since 2023, disaster relief funding has constantly been exhausted, resulting in Guams unmet needs being adversely impacted, Moylan, whos now serving his second term in Congress, said in a statement. Supplemental relief funding was inevitable, he said. He thanked his colleagues for their support in ensuring specific U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, HUD, funding for Guam was included. I also want to thank the management of (the Guam Housing and Urban Renewal Authority) for their relentless efforts in working with HUD to ensure adequate data was provided, for enhancing communication and prioritizing this funding. Their partnership was critical in the process, Moylan added. In a recent correspondence from the House Committee of Appropriations to Moylan, the breakdown consists of: $435.5 million for unmet needs $65.325 million for mitigation supplements. The HUD funding is administered by GHURA, the respective state disaster response office. Moylan said the official communication between HUD and GHURA will take place later this month, and it will include an action plan to ensure eligible Guam benefactors receive the funds accordingly. GHURA Deputy Director Fernando Esteves, in a statement, said the collaborative work has paid off. We immediately began this effort after Mawar hit, he said. We had many meetings with federal officials to make the case for Guam, triggering a deeper look at our data and knowing how it determines funding. The attentiveness, support, and use of technology by the Leon Guerrero-Tenorio administration was critical. Esteves said throughout the process, Moylan has kept the administration updated on their efforts pushing this for Guam, getting it over the biggest hurdle. This is a testament to the good work that can come when we put politics aside, Esteves added. The new speaker of the 38th Guam Legislature, Frank Blas Jr., said the message by voters this past election could not have been any clearer theyve had enough and they want a change for the better. Blas was unanimously confirmed as speaker by his eight fellow Republicans and six Democrats, who were all sworn in by Supreme Court of Guam Chief Justice Robert Torres during the legislative inauguration ceremony Monday at the Guam Congress Hall. The Republicans were swept into a 9 to 6 majority for the first time in 16 years in the November election, and Blas during his inaugural speech called for unity among lawmakers. We must strive to produce a government that works with our people, not over them, Blas said. Theyre tired of the bickering and theyve had it with the berating. Blas, who was flanked by the leaders of the two other branches of government, Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero and the chief justice, along with Attorney General Douglas Moylan, said its time to refocus on the problems that are harming and hindering the island and to get over the personal convictions and disagreements we have with each other or with other leaders. Blas identified those problems as a struggling tourism industry, a crumbling health care system, aging infrastructure, a growing problem with illicit drug use, and families struggling with putting a roof over their head, much less putting food on their table. The new Legislature has reached a turning point, Blas said. Now its up to us collectively to live up to their expectations, he added. The new body also unanimously elected Sen. Vicente Tony Ada as the vice speaker, and Sen. Sabrina Salas Matanane as the legislative secretary. Sen. Jesse Lujan was chosen as majority leader and Sen. Shelly Calvo was picked as majority whip. The Democrat senators, all of whom are incumbents, have yet to announce any leadership positions. They include Sens. Therese Terlaje, Tina Muna Barnes, Joe San Agustin, Sabina Perez, William Parkinson, and Chris Barnett. The new standing committees and chairpersons were also announced: Sen. Chris Duenas, Committee on Finance and Government Operations; Sen. Eulogio Shawn Gumataotao, Committee on Public Safety and Emergency Management; Sen. Vincent Borja, Committee on Education, Libraries and Public Broadcasting; Sen. Sabrina Salas Matanane, Committee on Health and Veterans Affairs; Sen. Shelly Calvo, Committee on Welfare, Youth Affairs, Senior Citizens, Womens Affairs, disabilities services, arts, culture, historic preservation and Hagatna restoration: Sen. Jesse Lujan, Committee on Transportation, Tourism, Customs, Utilities and Federal and Foreign Affairs; Sen. Telo Taitague, Committee on Economic Investment, Military Buildup, Regional Relations, Technology, Regulatory Affairs, Justice, Elections and Retirement; Vice Speaker Tony Ada, Committee on Rules, Land, Environment, Housing, Agriculture, Parks and Infrastructure. The body voted to accept the new standing rules, a 140-page document that Rules Committee Chair Ada said had few changes to the previous terms standing rules. The legislative attaches were also announced: Attorney Darleen Hiton was named legislative counsel, Renae Meno was tapped as legislative clerk, and Edward Pocaigue will be the sergeant-at-arms. Ada previously confirmed that former First Lady of Guam Joanne Camacho was hired as the 38th Legislatures executive director. 38th Guam Legislature Tony Ada (R) Tina Rose Muna Barnes (D) Chris Barnett (D) Frank Blas Jr. (R) Vince Borja (R) Shelly Calvo (R) Chris Duenas (R) Eulogio Shawn Gumataotao (R) Jesse Anderson Lujan (R) Sabrina Salas Matanane (R) Will Parkinson (D) Sabina Perez (D) Joe San Agustin (D) Telo Taitague (R) Therese Terlaje (D) Haiti - FLASH : A young entrepreneur executed in the courtyard of the Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Help On Sunday, January 5, 2024, armed individuals dressed in black cowardly shot dead in the courtyard of the Notre-Dame du Perpetuel Secours Church (Delmas 75), Robenson Rendel (37 years old), a young entrepreneur known in the cosmetics sales sector, as he got out of his armored car, a black Toyota Prado registered AA-44237, to attend mass. The attackers fled on a motorbike without being worried. A murder that caused panic among the faithful who closed the doors of the church to try to protect themselves. Lionel Lazarre Deputy spokesperson for the PNH believes that this assassination has no connection with the deadly gang attacks but was planned. The armed men were waiting for their victim who, once he got out of his armored vehicle, was riddled with bullets. No other faithful were injured. According to the report made by the Justice of the Peace, the victim was shot 11 times, including 4 in the head, and died instantly. Reacting to this assassination, Mgr. Max Leroys Mesidor, Metropolitan Archbishop of Port-au-Prince, wrote in a note "[...] This barbaric act has fanned the flames of violence in our country and reveals once again that bloodthirsty individuals have no respect for human life or sacred places such as churches and hospitals. The Archdiocese of Port-au-Prince condemns in the strongest terms this heinous crime, which is added to an already long list, and urges everyone to take the path of Peace, which leads to fraternity and progress for the good of all. He presents his sympathies to the parents and friends of the victim as well as to all the faithful of the Parish of Fragncau Ville and assures them of his prayers. Considering, following Pope Francis, in his message of January 1st, 2025 that 'Peace is a responsibility that falls to us all', the Archdiocese asks the authorities of the State, the National Police of Haiti, the Armed Forces and all the citizens of the country not to allow chaos and anarchy to have the upper hand. Following the example of the Magi who left Bethlehem by another path, let us Haitians commit ourselves to another path, that of Peace, harmony and respect for human life, because our country is at the end of its rope." SL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Economy : The garment manufacturing sector has lost 40,000 jobs In 3 years, the garment manufacturing sector, which employed 62,000 workers in Haiti in December 2021, has lost more than 40,000 workers (64%) according to Georges Sassine, the former President of the Association of Industries of Haiti. In addition to the security crisis, the uncertainty of the renewal of trade preferences for Haiti under the HOPE (Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement) Act and its complementary HELP (Haiti Economic Lift Program) program, which gives certain garments duty-free access to the American market, is set to expire in September 2025. Georges Sassine explains that buyers are not convinced that the American Congress will renew the HOPE/HELP Act and that it takes months to develop a relationship with a manufacturer, that contracts take much longer to sign, and they cannot commit to something that they do not know will end in September... For 3 years, the textile industry in Haiti has been trying to get Congress to renew the HOPE/HELP Act, which has the support of the Biden administration, but whose extension has been delayed due to disagreements between Democrats and Republicans... The security climate in Haiti has been devastating for the textile sector apparel, but still, Sassine believes the industry needs to find a way to survive and "recover some of those jobs," which the renewal of HOPE/HELP would allow. Should be noted that Fernando Capellan, owner of the CODEVI industrial park, has 11 tenants manufacturing for 15 different brands, currently has 15,000 employees. He has lost about 6,000 since the beginning of the crisis and could lose another 6,000 if the HOPE/HELP law is not extended. At the Caracol industrial park, there are only 2,900 jobs left and only one tenant, the Korean textile company Sae-A Trading Co., which operates under the name S&H Global in Haiti. TB/ HaitiLibre Warming products take center-stage 10:20, January 06, 2025 By Zhu Wenqian ( China Daily Shoppers buy warming products at a store in Changshu, Jiangsu province. (Photo/China Daily) As temperatures drop across China and the country braces for colder weather in the next few weeks, a niche has developed for cozy warming products such as electrothermal blankets and heating scarves. Traditional hot-water bags have become outdated, and brands are eyeing the "warming market" to launch innovative products such as foot warmers, hand warmers, heating scarves and heating seat cushions to satisfy the increasingly diverse demands of consumers. Customers living in the southern part of the country, especially those in the Yangtze River Delta region, have indicated a stronger demand for heating products, as a lack of indoor central heating facilities makes homes relatively damp and cold, industry players said. Currently, China is focused on promoting consumption alongside benefits to people's livelihoods, said Li Gang, director-general of the department of market operation and consumption promotion at the Ministry of Commerce. "At the turn of the year, we focus on promoting sales of key product categories such as automobiles, home appliances, and home furnishings, and we will hold various kinds of consumption promotion activities," Li said. The Central Economic Work Conference, which concluded in December, has set nine key tasks for the government to focus on for 2025, and vigorously boosting consumption, improving investment efficiency, and expanding domestic demand in all aspects have been accorded top priority. As the government continues to promote growth in consumption, the growing demand for warming products reflects the vitality of the consumption market. The sales of Chengdu Rainbow Appliances (Group) Inc's electrothermal blankets online reached nearly 40,000 pieces daily during the period from Christmas to New Year, according to Alibaba's e-commerce platform Tmall. The Chengdu, Sichuan province-based company, the world's largest manufacturer of electrothermal blankets in terms of manufacturing volume, said it had seen growth in sales of its electrothermal products every year in the past few years. "Electrothermal blankets are relatively affordable and energy-saving, and most products carry price tags below 200 yuan ($27.4) per piece. Besides heating, the latest electrothermal blankets are equipped with functions such as dehumidification, mite removal, and sleep monitoring," said Kang Beina, e-commerce director of Rainbow Group. "The northern part of the country usually begins to cool down in October, and sales of heating products fared better in northern China before the supply of central heating in mid-November, while the sales period of heating products lasts longer in southern China," Kang said. Founded in 1982, Rainbow Group has focused on the research and development of household electrothermal blankets. In recent years, it has also developed some innovative products such as heating scarves and heating vests, and sales of such products have surged on a yearly basis, it said. Rainbow Group also exports its electrothermal products to Europe and mainly sells at local supermarket chains and Chinese supermarkets, as well as through e-commerce platforms such as AliExpress, Amazon, and PDD's Temu. In particular, sales have been rosy in France, the company said. Meanwhile, water-heating blankets have been popular in the market. Carrying a price tag of 270 yuan to 280 yuan each, the working principle of water-heating blankets is similar to underfloor heating. Renqiu Huanding Supply Chain Management Co Ltd, a manufacturer of water-heating blankets in Hebei province, said customers will not feel dehydrated when they put water-heating blankets on the bed. "By the end of 2024, our sales volume grew by 20 percent over the previous year. Despite this winter being relatively warmer, we netted higher sales, as consumers have increasingly adopted our products," said Lyu Haiyang, general manager of Renqiu Huanding. The company has also exported its products to markets such as Russia, the United States, and some European nations through e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and Russia's largest online retailer Wildberries. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) The ruling is considered an unprecedented success for the EU Commission: in September 2024, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ordered Apple to pay back taxes of 13 billion euros plus interest to Ireland after years of litigation. The reason: the US company had received "unlawful subsidies" in the member state, which must be repaid. Observers also saw the sensational decision as a significant setback for the world's most valuable company. But all in all, Apple emerged victorious from the dispute, not only thanks to the tricky tax models made possible by Ireland, which have saved the company billions of euros over the years, according to a new analysis. Anzeige The foundations for Apple's favorable tax status in Ireland were laid by the company more than 40 years ago, reports Follow the Money (FTM) magazine in its account. In 1980, it opened an office and production facility in Cork, a port city on the south coast of Ireland. Over time, the facility grew into a campus that now serves as Apple's European headquarters and employs more than 6,000 people. The catalyst: In the late 1990s, Apple founded two Irish subsidiaries Apple Operations Europe (AOE) and Apple Sales International (ASI). The company granted licenses to both for the sale and distribution of its products and the associated intangible property rights such as patents in Europe. This meant that Apple did not have to pay the then legally prescribed tax of 35 percent on the proceeds of its sales in Europe to the USA. Double Irish tax savings model In the period 2003 to 2014 alone, Apple Ireland made at least 100 billion euros in profits during the boom in iPhones and iPods, according to FTM. The company did not pay any tax on this to Ireland at the standard corporation tax rate of 12.5 percent, but only one percent in 2003 and even less in 2014, namely 0.005 percent. This was due to the special agreement with the Irish tax authorities, which was rejected by the ECJ and first concluded in 1991 and then again in 2007. According to Apple and the Irish tax authorities, Cork was nothing more than a branch of the company that made very little profit. The majority of Apple Ireland's profits between 2003 and 2014 were generated by the other branch of the EU company, explains FTM: the company's so-called actual European headquarters. However, this only existed on paper and did not have an address, staff or offices. Its surpluses were not taxed in Ireland, according to the report, as the management of this head office did not live and work in Ireland. Irish law at the time stated that the tax authorities did not consider a company to be taxable if the management was located abroad. Apple Ireland was technically considered "stateless" for tax purposes. This enabled the company to massively reduce its liabilities under its variant of the "Double Irish" scheme. In addition, there were US regulations that allowed companies incorporated abroad not to pay US taxes. Additional tax gift from Trump Anzeige This structure, of which IT giants such as Adobe, Amazon, Facebook, Google, IBM, Microsoft, Oracle and Yahoo used their variants. Sometimes combined with a "Dutch sandwich" for licensing technical inventions on Caribbean islands, it is no longer feasible due to changes in US and Irish tax laws. According to the research, Apple ultimately paid a one-off tax of 17 billion US dollars for profits between 2003 and 2014 in the USA thanks to a tax reduction package from the Trump administration in 2018. An controversial additional tax credit of 4.8 billion US dollars is also likely to be deducted from this, meaning that the company effectively had to pay 12.2 billion US dollars in taxes in the USA. In total, Apple paid 26.2 billion US dollars in taxes worldwide over the eleven years. Advantages over Nokia, Ericsson & Co. If Apple had not granted the licenses to its two Irish subsidiaries, it would have had to pay up to 38.5 billion US dollars in US taxes during these years, according to FTM's calculations. The levies would also have been due directly when profits were made, rather than many years later, which would have impacted Apple's growth at a crucial time. At the end of 2018, Apple still had over 230 billion US dollars in cash reserves, writes the magazine. At that time, the Irish back taxes had already been transferred to an escrow account in the EU appeal proceedings and the one-off US tax had been paid. The damage to the group was therefore limited, which "gave it a considerable financial advantage over its European competitors at the time, such as Nokia and Ericsson". These would have paid taxes directly on their profits. Apple stood by its September statement: "We always pay all applicable taxes, no matter where we operate, and there has never been a special arrangement for Apple." (vbr) Eastern Uusimaa Police Department on Sunday reported that the car is presently believed to have skidded down a hill and collided rear-first into the railing of the bridge, with the force of the collision throwing the car upside down into the river. FOUR TEENAGERS died as a car fell from a bridge into a river in Nurmijarvi, Southern Finland, on Saturday. A passer-by contacted the emergency call centre after seeing the car in the river shortly before 4am on Saturday. First responders recovered the bodies of four 1719-year-old locals from the car. The accident took place on a wooden bridge on Tulvatie, a private road that was described as narrow, winding and undulating by YLE on Sunday. The road descends toward the bridge from both directions, and investigators have yet to determine which direction the car was heading in. Preliminary forensic analyses indicate, though, that neither alcohol nor speeding was associated with the accident. Leif Malmberg, the detective chief inspector leading the pre-trial investigation at Eastern Uusimaa Police Department, told Helsingin Sanomat on Friday that police are also ascertain which of the young people was driving the car. The victims, he added, were apparently on a drive. By all accounts its a case of maximum misfortune, said Malmberg. The incident is provisionally investigated as a traffic accident and causing a traffic hazard. Also involved in the investigation are officials from the Safety Investigation Authority of Finland (OTKES). Pasi Anteroinen, the CEO of the Finnish Road Safety Council, stated to Helsingin Sanomat that traffic accidents that claim four or more lives are rare in Finland. An accident that claims four lives is classified as a major accident. Weve had an average of one major accident a year in recent years. These kinds of accidents are rare on one hand, but too recurring [on the other], he said to the daily newspaper on Saturday. Although such accidents continue to recur, he reminded that traffic safety has improved significantly in recent decades. In the 1990s, an average of four major accidents took place every year. Overall, around 180 people, including 3040 young people, lose their lives in road accidents every year in Finland. The national goal is to reduce the number of road fatalities under 100, with young people accounting for no more than 20 of them. Anteroinen stated that various measures will be required to bring down the number of young people who lose their lives in traffic accidents: resources should be dedicated not only to teaching learner drivers how to drive safely, but also to improving the safety of vehicles and the road environment an aspect, he said, that is too often ignored in the wake of accidents as the focus tends to be exclusively on the driver. Police have to conduct credible traffic supervision. Drivers have to think that they cant drive too fast, he added to Helsingin Sanomat. Young people can also glamorise speeding and reckless driving, according to Anteroinen. As an educator, I think that we can have an impact on such thinking. Teaching responsible behaviour in traffic is a lifelong process it starts already in daycare. When it comes to young people, driving is linked to a desire to experiment how they can deal with risks. When people become older, they also become more patient in traffic, he said. Anteroinen spoke to the newspaper about road safety among young people at the general level, not in regards to the accident in Nurmijarvi. Aleksi Teivainen HT As Helene raged, animal services chief made sure families kept their pets Henderson County Animal Services Director Brad Rayfield holds a boxer mix and her puppy in December at the animal shelter on Stoney Mountain Road. [AMY MCCRAW/Hendersonville Lightning] The long days and sleepless nights Brad Rayfield spent caring for animals in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene taught him something about humanity. Related Stories It was humbling to see how everybody came together, just to know how much everybody needs each other at a time like that, Rayfield said as he wiped tears from his eyes. Were all quick to get down on humanity. But at a time like that you see the good. As Henderson Countys Animal Services director, Rayfield is responsible for the care of stray animals housed at the countys animal shelter on Stoney Mountain Road. When Helene forced the evacuation of residents in hard hit areas of the county, Rayfield also shouldered the responsibility for the around-the-clock care of pets who arrived with their owners at an emergency shelter set up at the countys Activity Center on South Grove Street. From his office at the animal shelter one day shortly before Christmas, Rayfield considered the time he spent keeping animals safe during the storm. The work was exhausting, rewarding and even comical at times. Overall, it was an experience I wouldnt want to trade, he said. That doesnt mean I want to do it again. It was rewarding to help people keep a little sense of normalcy, to keep their animals. Rayfields mission to keep pets safe during the storm mostly dogs and cats began early in the week before Helene hit. He began preparing for any animals that might arrive with their owners at the emergency shelter on the Monday before the county saw catastrophic flooding Sept. 27 from both a weather system that brought rain earlier in the week and the hurricane that slammed the mountains. We always prepare for the worst, he said. Weve got an equipment trailer with cages, everything you need to provide basic care for dogs and cats. While the trailer with 75 to 100 crates stays stocked with basic care items, it does not keep on hand any supplies with a shelf-life, such as food and vaccines. Rayfield rounded up the perishable supplies the trailer needed before moving it to the Activity Center on Tuesday that week. The countys Emergency Management office determined before evacuations began that the storm shelter would be located at the center on Grove Street. The possibility of bites and animal-related allergies meant pets were not allowed inside with their owners. But knowing that many people regard their dogs and cats as part of the family, emergency managers planned before the storm to also stage the animal shelters trailer on the activity center property. A lot of people will put themselves in harms way if they think they have to leave their animals behind, Rayfield said. Having their pets housed near them eased the minds of people the storm forced from their homes. It also proved helpful to Rayfield because the pet owners could leave the shelter during the day to visit and help care for their animals. Rayfield spent his first night with the animals at the Activity Center on Wednesday that week when two or three pets arrived with their owners during flooding from the first storm that soaked the county before the hurricane hit. Rayfield, who lives in McDowell County, remained at the shelter with the animals every day and night for the next week. I couldnt get home, he said. I live where it wasnt possible for me to get home the first five days. The driveway into his home was made impassable by storm debris and his wife and children also could not get out for several days. That first night at the shelter Rayfield slept on a cot near the animal cages to make sure he was available if any pets arrived through the night. A 16-year-old Maltese named Sugar that came to the shelter with her owner made sleep impossible. I tried, but Sugar just wouldnt hush, Rayfield said with a chuckle. I joked that I about choked Sugar that night. By Friday night, Rayfield had moved from sleeping on a cot near the cages to a van parked nearby in the hopes that the van would offer him a little peace and quiet. It did not. People seeking shelter, including some who were airlifted from Bat Cave, arrived throughout the night. On the Friday night of the storm, the shelter took in eight animals from 11 p.m. to 3 a.m. The commotion each night tended to rile up the dogs. Out of desperation one noisy night, Rayfield tried to drown out the sound of barking dogs by stuffing tissue in his ears. The homemade ear plug did not help him sleep any better and when he tried to remove it the next morning, Rayfield discovered he had stuffed the tissue down so deep in one ear that it was stuck. A county health department nurse tending to people in the shelter eventually used a pair of pliers thing to clear his ear. Other animal shelter employees were unable reach the property immediately after Helene hit. So Rayfield divided his time on the Saturday after the storm between the emergency shelter on South Grove and the pound on Stoney Mountain Road. Luckily, when the storm hit, the shelter was not full, he said. I came here and fed and everything. It was an abbreviated operation that day. I had to get back to where people were trickling in. By Sunday, some animal shelter staff members were able to make it to work and began caring for animals there. One former employee also returned to the shelter and helped out for a time. They all maintained great composure and were back at work as soon as they could get here. Many worked extra hours and helped organize staffing assistance we were receiving from other agencies around North Carolina, he said. Two county social service employees also came to the shelter and helped with cleaning and caring for the animals an example of the broad emergency response that repurposed county employees to do whatever was needed. Rayfield managed to spend a night at home on Thursday, Oct. 3, after he took animals from the animal shelter in Henderson County to the airport in Rutherford County for the first of four flights to animal rescue locations in other parts of the country. I was pretty close to home, he said. That was the first time I had seen family was that Oct. 3. Two flights carrying animals from Henderson Countys shelter and other area shelters eventually left from the Rutherford airport and two flights of animals flew out of Asheville, Rayfield said. Some animals from the WNC were relocated as far away as upstate New York. In all, 122 cats and 76 dogs from Henderson Countys shelter were flown out of the county. Rayfield said he made arrangements with the Bissell Pet Foundation and the volunteer group Pilots to the Rescue to fly the animals away from the devastation in the county. He wanted to make room at the county shelter in case space was need for an influx of animals, either from them being displaced during the storm or from pet owners who were forced to relocate and could not take their pets with them. We never had a storm this bad. We werent sure what we would get, he said. I didnt know. In the aftermath, with so many displaced, I didnt know what to expect. In the first week, 10 animals lost during the storm found their way to the animal shelter but all were eventually reunited with their owners. Officials at the Red Cross and FEMA also managed to keep many families with their pets by finding temporary housing that allowed animals, Rayfield said. Rayfields workload eased somewhat and a sense of normalcy began to return by the second week in October when manpower from around the state began arriving in Henderson County to assist with the emergency response. By the time he wrapped up operations at the Activity Center the weekend of Oct. 19, the trailer had served 50 dogs, 10 to 15 cats and one reptile. One couple who arrived at the shelter with their 17-year-old dog made the difficult decision to have their pet euthanized because the dog had declined so much during the evacuation. But once things returned to normal after the storm, the man and his wife adopted a dog from the animal shelter. When he considers those chaotic days he spent caring for animals after Helene devastated Western North Carolina, its little wonder Rayfield needs to occasionally wipe away a few tears. The strength and gratitude of people who arrived at the emergency shelter with just their pets and not much else left in the world touched him. The people there were so thankful and grateful. I built a rapport with all of them. They were just thankful we provided that for their animals, he said. The hard work of animal shelter employees who worked long hours tending to the animals and county employees who took on emergency duties they had never trained inspired him. Just seeing how the county employees that dont serve in emergency management really stepped up. It was all hands on deck, he said. They were just like What can I do? They really stood up and helped. TOYS and gifts were handed out to children on the childrens ward at the John Radcliffe Hospital thanks to donations from Henley residents. More than 30 bikers took part in the annual toy run which travelled to the Ronald McDonald House in Oxford, which is next door to the hospital. The house is used by families who require respite while their children are in hospital. Town councillor David Eggleton, who rode his Indian Scout Bobber 200, drove from outside the town hall to H cafe in Oxford Road, where he met up with the other drivers. Together they delivered about seven bags of colouring books, soft toys and games. The run, now in its ninth year, is organised by the by the Gainsborough Residents Association, in partnership with Thames Lodge, which provided teddy bears. Cllr Eggleton, who dressed as Santa and had decorated his bike with lights, said: It was just amazing to actually go and listen to the some of the children. The good thing about it is watching children smile, even a child who had just come out of an operation. A FATHER of a boy with a muscle-wasting condition says bureaucracy is standing in the way of accessing the vital medicine he needs. Ben Clarke, from Sonning Common, lives with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a progressive muscle-wasting disease. The 11-year-olds father, Alex, said a drug that could slow down the incurable condition is not being made available on the local NHS because of budgetary and cost constraints. Givinostat, the anti-inflammatory medication, is for boys aged six and older and was approved for use in America earlier this year, according to Muscular Dystrophy UK. It is currently being assessed by UK regulators and for those who meet a strict set of criteria, they can have early access to the drug on the NHS. NHS trusts need to apply to take part in the Early Access Programme, which is not currently happening in Oxfordshire, Mr Clarke has said. Mr Clarke, who works as an operations manager, said: It is incredibly frustrating. Our argument has always been that the short-term implications of some additional cost outweigh the long-term ongoing benefits for the boys (affected). This drug has shown the benefit of slowing the condition so thats the most important thing. Duchenne UK wrote to every single chief executive of every trust in the UK and didnt receive one response from any about how they were working to get this approved and get this early access programme in action, which I think is really poor form. It is so important that a drug like this makes it to market because one of the key things is, there are no medications outside of steroids that are available for boys with Duchenne, whether they walk or they dont walk. This medication could help a proportion of their trust, a group of boys who are already marginalised and it could marginalise them even further by not making something that is going to benefit them available. Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a genetic condition that gradually causes the muscles to weaken, leading to an increasing level of disability. Living with Duchenne means Ben, who is in Year 7 at Gillotts School in Henley, can tire easily and he sometimes requires the use of a wheelchair to get around. He also experiences cramping and is supported by special educational needs and disabilities co-ordinators at his school, where he is sometimes timetabled out of his mainstream classes because of his condition to access learning support. Mr Clarke said: We are very fortunate that, at the age of 11, Ben is still walking and you want to maintain that for as long as possible. Its going to be devastating if we are delayed access to a medication that could assist with him staying on his feet. A medication that slows the progression of his muscles failing him will only benefit him positively. For a longer period of time, he would be able to keep up with, to the best of his ability, his friends and stay more socially interactive with them. It would have a positive impact both physically and mentally. Bens parents were made aware of the drug about five years ago when the results from the first round of clinical trials had been released. Givinostat was conditionally approved to treat patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency on December 20. Participation in the programme is decided at an individual National Health Service trust level. Mr Clarke added: Weve reached 25 trusts now that have shown an interest which includes Oxford in taking part in the early access programme. But were not hearing anything from senior management that they are progressing this so were wondering when the key decision-makers are going to make a decision about a medication that can make an impact on our boys. With something like this that has showed to slow the progression, you delay this being available to our boys so youre going to have boys that may end up in a wheelchair full time that could have been slowed because thats what it has shown to do. Mr Clarke contacted Henley MP Freddie van Mierlo and has written to the Oxfordshire NHS Trust urging it to make Givinostat available. A spokesman for the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said it was engaging actively in discussions about the potential treatment. They added that the provision of Givinostat is under discussion and review nationally and that they are also engaging with partner organisations. China optimizes national rail timetable on Sunday, adding more passenger and freight trains 10:29, January 06, 2025 By Ma Jingjing, Chu Daye ( Global Times A bullet train from Huzhou arrives at Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station in east China's Shanghai, Dec. 26, 2024. A newly constructed high-speed railway began operations on Thursday, enhancing the rail network connecting major cities in east China's Yangtze River Delta Region, a key economic powerhouse of the country. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) China State Railway Group Co (China Railway), the country's railway operator, introduced a new national rail timetable on Sunday to enhance the massive system's transportation capacity and efficiency. China Railway plans to operate 13,028 scheduled passenger trains, an increase of 230 compared with the previous schedule. The number of freight trains will rise to 22,859, which is 91 more than the previous schedule. The adjustment aims to enhance the railway system's passenger and freight transport capacity, service quality, and operational efficiency, according to a press release China Railway sent to the Global Times on Sunday. Focused on serving national key strategies and balanced regional development, deepening the supply-side structural reform of the transport sector and actively adapting to market demand, the new diagram will enhance the overall efficiency of the railway network and further optimize the supply of passenger and freight transport products, the group said, noting that high-quality railway development will better serve sustained economic growth. Leveraging the transportation capacity of new routes such as the Shanghai-Suzhou-Huzhou high-speed railway and Hangzhou-Wenzhou high-speed railway, the adjustment will improve operations in Southeast China to support the integration of the Yangtze River Delta and the development of the Yangtze River Economic Belt. Among the adjustments, 38 new bullet trains will run from Shanghai to capital cities including Zhengzhou in Central China's Henan Province, Wuhan in Central China's Hubei Province, and Fuzhou in East China's Fujian Province. Additionally, two bullet trains will operate at speeds of 350 kilometers per hour from the Beijing South Railway Station to the Nanjing South Railway Station on the Beijing-Shanghai high-speed railway route. In order to facilitate cross-boundary personnel exchanges, the number of bullet trains across Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong has increased to 242, while bullet trains running from Xi'an North Station in Northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Wuhan Railway Station, and Jieyang Railway Station in South China's Guangdong Province to Hong Kong's West Kowloon Station have been launched. With the addition of new lines such as the Jining-Datong-Yuanping high-speed railway and Jingmen-Jingzhou high-speed railway, the adjustment will support the rise of China's vast central and western regions. Additionally, China Railway will ramp up its freight transport capacity, optimize the supply of express trains, and ensure the timely transportation of goods essential for the national economy and people's livelihoods. Efforts will also be made to strengthen the organization of China-Europe freight trains, ensure the stable operation of China-Central Asia freight trains, and the smooth and stable functioning of international industry and supply chains. "The adjustment of the diagram reflects the stable development trend of the country's railway sector and will better adapt to the country's economic development," Sun Zhang, a railway expert at Shanghai Tongji University, told the Global Times on Sunday. More passenger trains are being added, many of which are tourism routes - for example, the Shanghai-Suzhou-Huzhou high-speed railway - which will meet a surge in the Spring Festival travel rush and growing inbound tourism thanks to the visa-free policy extension for short-term visits to China, Sun said. The Spring Festival travel rush, or chunyun, is set to break records this year, with an estimated 9 billion trips to be made across the country during the 40-day period from January 14 to February 22, according to the National Development and Reform Commission. The number of passenger trips by rail is expected to surpass 510 million, reflecting an increase over 2024 levels. The annual Central Economic Work Conference held in Beijing in early December pointed out that the forging of a unified national market shall be accelerated, and efforts will be made to break down local protectionism and market segmentation, while logistics costs should be effectively lowered, it said. "The optimization of freight trains is also in line with the spirit of the tone-setting meeting to reduce the country's logistics costs and better support economic development," Sun said. The total operating length of China's railway network amounted to 162,000 kilometers as of the end of 2024, with the length of operating high-speed rail tracks reaching 48,000 kilometers, according to China Railway. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) "Home Improvement" actor Zachery Ty Bryan was arrested on Thursday for domestic violence, according to reports. The Horry County Sheriff's Office said that the former child star remains in custody as of Jan. 3. Bryan faces a charge of second-degree domestic violence. This is not the first time the star has faced such allegations. In July 2023, he was arrested in Eugene, Oregon, following a reported physical altercation with an unnamed woman. He was charged with two counts of fourth-degree assault, one of which was later dropped in a plea agreement. Bryan served seven days in jail as part of the resolution, avoiding a potential 19-20 months in prison. Bryan has also had legal trouble related to drunk driving. In October 2024, he was arrested in Oklahoma on a DUI charge after refusing a sobriety test. He was taken into custody by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and reportedly apologized to the arresting officer during the ride, stating he "liked to drink." Zachery Ty Bryan's Net Worth Bryan has an estimated net worth of $5 million. He is best known for his role as Brad Taylor on the popular TV sitcom Home Improvement. In addition to his iconic role, Bryan has appeared on other notable television shows, including The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Veronica Mars. During his days as a child actor, Zachery Ty Bryan crossed paths with Brock Pierce, who later became a purported billionaire through early Bitcoin investments. Inspired by Pierce, Zachery also ventured into Bitcoin during its early days, later claiming to have earned millions from these investments. In a June 2023 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, when asked about the size of his Bitcoin fortune, Zachery declined to reveal the exact amount but remarked: "I've always been fortunate with my trust fund from Home Improvement, but this definitely moved things into a different [area] for me." Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is reportedly planning to step down as Liberal Party Leader as early as Monday, according to The Globe and Mail. The anticipated announcement follows a significant decline in public approval ratings and growing discontent within his caucus, with some members urging him to resign. Three sources informed the Canadian newspaper that while the exact timing remains uncertain, Trudeau is expected to announce a critical national caucus meeting on Wednesday. One source, who recently spoke with Trudeau, stated that the PM recognizes the importance of announcing his resignation ahead of the Liberal caucus meeting to avoid the appearance of being pushed out by his party members. The three sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity, also indicated uncertainty about who might succeed Trudeau as the Liberal Party leader. It remains unclear whether he would step down immediately following the announcement or continue serving until a new leader is chosen. The Liberal Party's national executive group is scheduled to meet later this week, according to The Globe and Mail. Trudeau had already been under pressure from his party, but tensions reached a breaking point on Dec. 16 when Finance Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland unexpectedly resigned. Freeland cited concerns over "spending gimmicks" and a lack of decisive action in addressing President-elect Donald Trump's proposed tariffs as her reasons for stepping down. "We need to take [Trump's tariff] threat extremely seriously. That means keeping our fiscal powder dry today, so we have the reserves we may need for a coming tariff war," Freeland wrote to Trudeau in a resignation letter she made public. "That means eschewing costly political gimmicks, which we can ill afford and which make Canadians doubt that we recognize the gravity of the moment." Trudeau's silence following Freeland's resignation has fueled mounting concern among Liberal members of Parliament, with renewed calls for him to step down. According to The Globe and Mail, caucuses from Atlantic Canada, Ontario, and Quebecrepresenting a combined 131 of the party's 153 seats in the House of Commonshave indicated that the majority of their members no longer support Trudeau. Adding to the pressure, Jagmeet Singh, leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP), whose support is crucial for the Liberals to maintain their governing position in the House, also called for Trudeau's resignation in December, following Freeland's abrupt departure. In a post published to X on Dec. 20, Singh wrote: "Justin Trudeau failed in the biggest job a Prime Minister has: to work for people, not the powerful. The NDP will vote to bring this government down, and give Canadians a chance to vote for a government who will work for them." Last week, Timbri Hotel San Francisco opened its doors as the latest addition to Curio Collection by Hilton, offering a retreat in the heart of the city's Mid-Market neighborhood. This 12-story, 236-room property seamlessly blends modern design with nature to create a fresh, invigorating environment where culture, creativity and comfort coexist. Timbri Hotel San Francisco is centered on the concept of Sanctuary in the City, where the rhythm of San Francisco harmonizes with the surrounding Bay Area's natural beauty. The hotel's "city nature" design philosophy creates a harmonious balance between lush elements and sleek urban sophistication. From the curated, green-infused color palette that evokes renewal and vitality to the modern greenhouse-inspired architecture that invites light and life into each space, every detail reflects this ethos. The reimagined interiors offer a verdant oasis, most evident in the transformed lobby, featuring rich, grounding tones and fresh accents that celebrate local culture and the creative spirit. With conceptual design by world-renowned Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) in collaboration with Handel Architects, the property's Flatiron-inspired exterior offers a contemporary interpretation of the area's historic architecture. Developed by the San Francisco-based team Group i in collaboration with New Ceremony, this thoughtful reimagining blends inspired design with a deep connection to the city's artistic and natural influences. At Timbri Hotel San Francisco, the experience extends beyond the design, with thoughtfully curated spaces for dining, relaxation, and work. The hotel features a rooftop bar and terrace, four distinct dining spaces, and a fitness center with top-of-the-line equipment. Throughout the property, Timbri Hotel San Francisco showcases an extensive art program featuring works by Bay Area artists and tastemakers including Sasinun Kladpetch and Iwamoto Scott, as well as a partnership with Root Division to feature rotating pieces from local artists in the coffee shop. Thoughtfully designed guest rooms offer floor-to-ceiling windows with expansive city views, deep soaking tubs, double-panel windows and modern amenities including high-speed Wi-Fi and minibars stocked with localfavorites. For groups, the hotel offers 6,250 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor meeting and event space, including a rooftop solarium with panoramic views of the city skyline and a 2,000-square-foot hospitality suite with an adjoining terrace.Perfectly situated as a gateway to the city's theater district,Timbri Hotel San Francisco is walking distance to Moscone Convention Center and serves as a vibrant base for exploring Union Square and SoMa. Timbri HotelSan Francisco's diverse dining options invite locals and travelers alike to experience San Francisco's eclectic culinary culture: Rise Over Run : A lush rooftop bar and solarium perched on the 12th floor, capturing the essence of the Mediterranean with its Saudade-inspired menu. Blendingflavors from regions like the Levant, North Africa, and Southern Europe, Rise Over Run offers a nostalgic yet innovative dining journey, all set against sweeping views of the San Francisco skyline. : A lush rooftop bar and solarium perched on the 12th floor, capturing the essence of the Mediterranean with its Saudade-inspired menu. Blendingflavors from regions like the Levant, North Africa, and Southern Europe, Rise Over Run offers a nostalgic yet innovative dining journey, all set against sweeping views of the San Francisco skyline. Dark Bar : A moody lobby-floor bar offering a curated selection of international spirits, inventive highballs, and globally inspired small bites. Perfect for a discreet rendezvous or a post-dinner nightcap, settle into a cozy booth by the fireplace as lo-fi, nu-jazz, and global beats create the perfect soundtrack for the evening. : A moody lobby-floor bar offering a curated selection of international spirits, inventive highballs, and globally inspired small bites. Perfect for a discreet rendezvous or a post-dinner nightcap, settle into a cozy booth by the fireplace as lo-fi, nu-jazz, and global beats create the perfect soundtrack for the evening. Spoke Coffee & Cafe: A fast-casual coffee shop located on the lobby level, offering espresso-based drinks and brewed coffees from Equator Coffees, fresh juices and pastries, plus full breakfasts prepared by the hotel's kitchen. Perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed start, enjoy quality and convenience before heading out. Timbri Hotel San Francisco is a part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest loyalty program for Hilton's 24 world-class brands. Members who book directly have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount, free standard Wi-Fi and the Hilton Honors mobile app. Book direct at Hilton.com, through the Hilton Honors app or through other official Hilton channels for more perks and a price match guarantee. Hilton Honors members can redeem Points using the Points Explorer tool. Hotel website Gopalakrishnan has extensive expertise in hospitality management, having held senior positions at prestigious brands such as The Ritz-Carlton and InterContinental Hotels. His career spans the UK, US and other key markets, focusing strongly on food and beverage leadership. He holds a Swiss Postgraduate Diploma in Hospitality from the Institute Hotelier Cesar Ritz in Switzerland. Gopalakrishnan will oversee resort operations, drive efficiency, and elevate guest service standards as the director of operations. The Gulf Cooperation Council region in the Middle East presents a unique and complex landscape for hotel investment. While the hospitality sector offers immense potential for growth and profitability, it is accompanied by risks that demand careful consideration. This article explores the factors influencing hotel valuations, challenges affecting transactions and strategies for aligning investments with market realities. The current state of hotel supply and demand The GCC region boasts a significant and rapidly expanding hotel supply, currently offering approximately 500,000 hotel keys. Of these, 46% are located in the United Arab Emirates and 34% in Saudi Arabia. Over the next five to seven years, the region is expected to add 300,000 keys, bringing the total to nearly 800,000. Despite this growth, hotel transactions remain limited, with only around 5,000 keys exchanging hands in major markets such as Dubai and Riyadh over the past five years. A key barrier is the disconnect between owners high asking prices and actual hotel values, which are typically determined by potential income and market dynamics. Read the full article at HVS Taj Cochin International Airport Hotel - Image Credit IHCL The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) has announced the opening of its newest property, Taj Cochin International Airport, on December 28, 2024. The inauguration ceremony was led by Shri. Pinarayi Vijayan, the Chief Minister of Kerala. As Puneet Chhatwal, IHCL's CEO and Managing Director, stated, the company has a long-standing history of contributing to the tourism sector in Kerala. The launch of the Taj Cochin International Airport hotel is a significant move to solidify IHCL's presence in the state further. The hotel, developed in collaboration with Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL), brings IHCL's total number of properties in Kerala to 19, with an additional three in the planning stages. Cochin is recognized as a key city in Southern India due to its growing economic importance. The new hotel will increase IHCL's footprint in the city and provide guests with convenient access to the region's popular tourist spots. The Taj Cochin International Airport hotel, with its 111 rooms, combines modern design with Kerala's rich artistic heritage. The hotel's dining options include the all-day diner Vista and Nonya, which serves Pan-Asian cuisine. Its amenities include a wellness center under IHCL's J Wellness Circle brand, a fitness center, and a swimming pool. The hotel also boasts a banquet space of over 5,000 square feet, making it an ideal venue for social and corporate events. Suresh Khanna, the General Manager of Taj Cochin International Airport, highlighted that the hotel aims to celebrate Kerala's culture and hospitality. The team is looking forward to welcoming guests to the luxurious property. Cochin, located on the Malabar coast, is considered Kerala's commercial and industrial capital. Its backwaters, spice markets, and architectural wonders make it a popular travel destination in India. How To Manage Your Hotels Google Business Profile - By Jeremy Razook - Image Credit TravelBoom Marketing Follow these tips for optimizing your hotels Google Business Profile to open the door to a bevy of SEM opportunities to increase the propertys visibility. This free search product, formerly Google My Business, is integral for hotels looking to attract local business and connect with customers performing location-based searches. We already know that holding real estate on the search engine results page (SERP) is super important, and Googles constant algorithm updates play a prominent role. Whether youre running a hotel or bed & breakfast, you can use a hotels Google Business Profile to promote your property and increase your presence in the local search results. A hotelier should include location and contact information, photos, and amenity features and highlights in the hotels Google Business Listing. To do this, youll need to correctly set up and populate the hotels business profile, which will help optimize it for search. Here are the best ways to begin SEO for the hotels business profile, an increasingly important element of earning SERP real estate: Claim and Verify Your Hotels Google Business Profile To get a hotel to appear on Google Search, Maps, and other services, like the hotel finder, youll need to register for a Business Profile on Google. Once the profile is listed, you must claim and verify your account to manage your propertys listing and attributes necessary for improving the hotels SEO. To claim a listing: Enter the name of your business in the Google Maps search bar. Choose the correct business from the search results. Select Claim this business and Manage now. Select your preferred verification option. If youre opening a new hotel, see our breakdown of how to set your hotel up for success before it opens. Typically, verification is accomplished by phone, text, email, or video. If youve already verified your businesss website with Google Search Console, you may be able to verify your hotel instantly. Just make sure youre using the same email account you used to verify your site with Google Search Console as you do for your Google Business Profile. Choose Your Hotels Business Category Once verified, youll also choose a primary category for your property. That could be Hotel, Resort, Bed & breakfast, etc. The category you select influences the information displayed to searchers. The Hotel Pack is a search feature that lists several hotels when someone makes a local search like boutique hotels in san diego, pet friendly hotels in chattanooga, or hotels near me. Important Note: A Google Business Profile typically sits to the right of the SERP on desktop, and below search ads on mobile. On Maps, it will display to the left on desktop and at the bottom on mobile. Update Your Your Businesss Profile Information You may have heard that your Google Business Profile is like the front door to your business. Thats because its true. The hotel details summary on a Google Business Profile acts as a virtual storefront and communicates important information to searchers, similar to what you may see in a physical storefront. It cant be stressed enough how important it is that this information is correct. Business Profile section of a hotels Google Business Profile. How many times have you searched for a service, only to discover the phone number or hours listed in the Google Business listing was inaccurate? Pretty frustrating, right? Dont be that business. When searchers view your hotels Business Profile in the knowledge panel, it will include the following details summary information and links: Website Directions/Address Phone number Customer reviews Photos Posts Important Note: Make sure the information (phone #, address, etc.) displayed on your hotels Google Business Profile matches your social profiles, website, and other sites to avoid confusion. Select Hotel Attributes and Details Using Google Business Profiles Hotel attributes section lets you select the amenities and services offered at your property. You can also select amenities that are in your hotel rooms. You can select whether your property has a casino, a kids club, daily housekeeping, and so on and whether those amenities are free, offered only on specific days or in certain seasons, or whether theyre under renovation. These are useful features that can make your listing user-friendly and your property more appealing. A Hotel details section in the Knowledge Panel will also provide a short description detailing the property. Important Note: Unfortunately, hotels do not have the option to customize the summary under the Hotel details section. This information is aggregated by Google from your website and other digital listings, so make sure your information is consistent and accurate across the web. Health and Safety Google Business Profile also includes Health & safety attributes. In TravelBooms post-pandemic traveler sentiment study, nearly 30% of leisure travelers saw COVID-19 as a factor in their decision process. While this number is falling compared to past traveler sentiment studies, many people still think twice if your hotel isnt transparent on health and safety protocols. There are several ways to detail the health and safety measures in the hotels business profile, including Enhanced cleaning and Minimized contact. Completing this section can help your listing stand out and build travelers confidence in your hotels safety considerations. Sustainability Google includes a sustainability category to help hotels highlight their energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction efforts. With wellness travel on the rise, hotels can use this section of the hotel details summary of their Google Business Profile to target eco-conscious consumers who value sustainable accommodations. Dont Leave Questions Unanswered A potentially time-consuming, yet positive function of a Google Business Profile if executed well, is the Questions and Answers feature. This section is super useful on the hotel details summary for the Google Business Profile because it allows you to respond to questions from potential guests. When answering a question, dont respond with simple yes or no answers; be informative and leave a detailed response. If someone asks about check-in or check-out times, provide the answer and refer them to visit your website or contact the front desk if they have any more questions. If a searcher asks a question you find particularly important, you can upvote it, potentially increasing the visibility of that question on your listing for others to see. Important Note: Anyone can answer questions on your Google Business Profile listing. Therefore, its best to frequently audit your listing and make sure people are seeing the correct answers by answering questions yourself. Populate the Hotels FAQs As mentioned, you can upvote questions you feel are important on your local search listing within the Questions and Answers section, potentially improving a questions visibility. With that in mind, you can also create your own questions, answer the questions yourself, and upvote the question and the answer. Not only does this give searchers an instant answer straight from the source, but it also prioritizes your time so youre not receiving the same questions over and over. Include SEO for hotel responses crafted in a loose, organic manner to help boost the propertys visibility without sounding unnatural and off-putting. Encourage Guests To Leave Reviews Reviews carry a lot of SEO weight for hotels, and local listing visibility can increase because of them. Google reviews and star ratings lie just below your propertys namenear the top of the hotels Google Business Profileand can help your property stand out. Profiles also include a Reviews section, and statistics for online reviews suggest 75% of people will check these out before making a decision. This section lies towards the bottom of the Google Business Profile. Did you know that 73% of consumers have written a review in the last year? If youre looking to build SEO for your hotels Google Business Profile, the odds are in your favor! Incorporate ways to encourage guests to leave reviews across several mediums, including post-stay emails, physical signage (in-room, front desk, etc.), social media, or a hotel mobile app. Similar to answering questions left by searchers, if a guest leaves a reviewpositive or negativeits best practice to leave a response. Add High-Quality Hotel Photos and Video Presenting your hotel using high-quality images and video offers the property an eye-catching advantage over competitors. Following SEO best practices for alt text can also improve the accessibility and visibility of your property listings. Photos and videos sit at the top of your listing and they should give guests an inside look at your property. These include your logo, a cover photo, 360 photos, a video, and several image categories/labels, including the exterior, interior, rooms, and food and drink. A couple of dos and donts for adding photos and videos: Do include images of unique features that separate your hotel from the rest include images of unique features that separate your hotel from the rest Dont use stock photos use stock photos Do include exterior shots, room interiors, amenities, employees assisting guests, etc. include exterior shots, room interiors, amenities, employees assisting guests, etc. Dont use a logo as your preferred photo (FYI: its not a guarantee Google will use the photo you select as the preferred photo) use a logo as your preferred photo (FYI: its not a guarantee Google will use the photo you select as the preferred photo) Do use wide-angle, well-lit shots use wide-angle, well-lit shots Dont use close-cropped images or images that dont convey what your hotel has to offer use close-cropped images or images that dont convey what your hotel has to offer Do optimize your hotels images for SEO: filenames and alt tags (optimizing your images can make a positive impact on Google Image searches) optimize your hotels images for SEO: filenames and alt tags (optimizing your images can make a positive impact on Google Image searches) Dont keyword stuff the filenames or alt tags of your images (ex. Alt text: Downtown Chicago Hotels for an image of a room interior) be clear and descriptive of what is in the image If you dont have equipment for 360 photos or video, hiring a professional is worthwhile. Important Note: Guests can also post photos to your listing. If someone posts an image you believe is harmful to your business or violates Googles policy guidelines, you can report it to Google for removal. Create Google Posts for the Hotels Profile Hoteliers can connect with customers through Google Posts to share announcements and updates about the hotel on the business profile. Currently, Google offers two types of posts hotels can use: Add update and Add event. For the Whats New post type, you can include an image and a call to action with a link to your website. For the Event post type, you can add an image or a video, event details, event title, event dates, and a call to action with a link to your website. Important Note: Google says Hotels cant create offer posts, or any post that mentions or includes links to deals, promotions, special offers, or discounts. Google wants people to stay within their hotel metasearch ecosystem, so it makes sense that they wouldnt want anyone to book another way. Google Business Profile for Hotels: Things To Avoid Weve covered a handful of dos and donts, but there are a few other items to consider when optimizing your hotels Google Business Profile. Avoid these practices to keep the business in Googles good graces and provide a better user experience for searchers: Listing the same hotel location on multiple Google Business Profiles Keyword stuffing responses to questions and reviews, image alt text, etc. Using the wrong address Including links to your website in responses or reviews Choosing amenity and attribute categories that dont match your offerings Follow Googles representation guidelines so you dont get penalized. Extend SEO for Hotels To Bing Places With all this Google talk, Bing can easily be overlooked, but this search engine is also important for a hotels SEO. Youll need to claim your Bing Places listing and verify it, similar to the way you do for Google. Then you can ensure its optimized and displays the correct information. Bing will supply a verification PIN via mail, phone, or email to confirm your Bing Places listing. If you have already verified the hotels Google Business profile, you may be able to import the hotel details summary and attributes into Bing to speed up onboarding and earn instant verification. The login information you used for Bing Places must also match the login information for Google Business Profile to use this feature. Once verified, it typically takes up to two weeks for your listing to publish with any new information youve added. Stay Active on the Hotels Business Listing Having your shiny, updated business profile listing ready for the world to see doesnt mean you should set it and forget it. SEO for hotels is an ongoing process that requires frequent updates and check-ins. Staying active on your listing, whether that entails answering questions, responding to reviews, or adding new images, signals to Google that your profile is active and updated, which can make a positive impact on your hotels local SEO rankings. Get more insight into local SEO for hotels. If you need assistance with your hotels SEO or updating the hotel details summary for your Google Business Profile, dont hesitate to contact TravelBoom for expert advice and service. Jeremy Razook - Digital Marketing Specialist at TravelBoom. Connect with Jeremy on LinkedIn. About TravelBoom Hotel Marketing TravelBoom specializes in developing and executing customized data-driven marketing solutions that drive direct bookings and growth for its clients. With over 25 years of experience in digital marketing for travel and hotels, TravelBoom leverages advanced data science and analytics to uncover insights and develop strategies that greatly enhance results for our clients and reduce reliance on third-party channels. TravelBoom is also host of the world's #1 ranked Hotel Marketing Podcast and its quarterly Traveler Sentiment Study both of which can be found at www.travelboommarketing.com. ADVERTISE Hypebot & MusicThinkTank With the internet and digital technologies driving rapid change within the music industry, articles about new releases and who has been hired and fired are no longer enough. Our up to the minute industry news alongside insightful commentary helps our readers sift through the rumors and developments to find the information they need to keep their businesses moving forward. 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To set its objectives the district pulls information from its strategic plan, the goals set by the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, input from families, and data from sources including Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System results and chronic absenteeism rates. The district aims to reach at least 75 percent of its state-identified targets for student achievement. In an effort to support high-quality instruction, the district has implemented new curriculum programs such as Wit and Wisdom for kindergarten through fifth grade English Language Arts, a reading program for its sixth through eighth graders called Expeditionary Learning, and an upgraded math program called Eureka Squared. "There are a lot of support systems that we are implementing to help teachers really feel like they can implement these programs successfully," Blake-Davis said. Becket-Washington Elementary School is focused on the two new curriculum programs, Wit and Wisdom and Eureka Squared, and providing "regular, high quality feedback to staff and students, because it is all new and it's overwhelming," the school's Principal Mary Kay McCloskey said. Similarly, Craneville Elementary School is concentrating on leveraging instructional leadership team made up of strong teachers, Principal Rebecca Sawyer said. This team guides the administrative staff on providing support, particularly with new curricula and communicate the needs of their fellow teachers to ensure consistent instructional practices and support for the new programs, she said. Kittredge Elementary School Principal Howard Marshall also expressed what was said by McCloskey and Sawyer. "Our teachers are really on board with it, but it's a huge lift, especially the ELA curriculum, it does a lot of work to transition from what they've been doing for several years to this new program, but the kids and the students are really embracing it," Marshall said. They have also restructured some of their Tier 2 supports, putting in a lot of effort and targeted support where they can. "If you remember, from our MCAS discussion , we will never have enough support, but we are trying to very smartly use the support we have, both with teacher feedback, the work of the Student Support Team, and the data from both benchmark and progress monitoring assessments," he said. Similar to the elementary schools, Nessacus Regional Middle School is working on integrating the curriculum program. This year, teachers are working on becoming more grounded in using Eureka Squared, said Kelly Flynn, the school's assistant principal of teaching and learning. Additionally, they are working on the new EL Visionary learning program and are in the beginning stages of a new science curriculum. The district's Director of Student Services Nathan Loux also highlighted how the school implemented a new program for eighth-grade students identified as below grade level in literacy. According to early benchmark data and anecdotal evidence, including absenteeism and behavior issues, Loux said the program has been successful over several months. Wahconah Regional High School Principal Aaron Robb said the school is starting a two-year process to address ELA performance, including revising the ninth and 10th grade ELA curriculum. A curriculum council will be established to examine possible changes to the ELA curriculum. The school's ELA teachers have taken part in a content specific professional development focused on reengaging students with reading and writing, Robb said. "It's becoming a challenge to get students to engage in some of that work. So they've got some creative strategies that they learned at a workshop last month to help deal with that," he said. In an attempt to provide support systems for social-emotional well-being the district is examining its policies and systems to eliminate any barriers that disproportionately affect its low-income students, multiracial students, and LGBTQ-plus students, Blake-Davis said. The district is actively preparing to establish student support centers at Nessacus and Wahconah with the aim of providing students who are struggling academically a dedicated space, she said. The district wants to provide students tools and support to help them succeed and avoid suspensions, whether in-school or out-of-school suspension. "We're looking very closely at how we've been redistributing resources within the district to make sure that we're putting the supports in the right places where they're most needed, and just really focusing on how we support the students that need us the most, the best we can," Assistant Superintendent Michael Henault said. McCloskey highlighted Becket-Washington's mentoring program where staff meet with students daily to build connections in an attempt to meet this objective. Craneville is closely tracking attendance and creating attendance plans for chronically absent students to make sure they feel supported in school, Sawyer said. "Students are chronically absent due to some social emotional challenges that they're facing. So we're really taking sort of that path in making sure that they feel supported at school, forming some good relationships, making connections and creating really solid attendance plans for students who are chronically absent," she said. Kittredge is leveraging its full-time school adjustment counselor to provide more targeted social-emotional support, this is the first year they have this resource. "We have a large number of high need students, especially social emotional so having a full-time school adjustment counselor has been tremendous," Marshall said. The counselor provides classroom lessons, conducts pull-out groups, and holds lunch and recess support groups, fostering relationship-building. Nessacus is in its third year of a curriculum aimed at empowering students and challenging bias, covering important topics like bullying and cyber safety at each grade level. It is also working on improving chronic absenteeism. Wahconah is establishing a climate and culture committee to focus on planning events and initiatives to engage students. They are also refining internal practices and engaging students and families to address chronic absenteeism. In addition, the high school is working on and implementing a year-long senior mentorship program, with the aim of mentoring the ninth grade students. District leadership also reported that during budget discussions with the principals, the need for additional school adjustment counselors emerged as a consistent priority. They are actively exploring ways to allocate resources to increase mental health and social-emotional support staff across the district. The district and its schools is also working on expanding and strengthening family and community partnerships. Based on a family survey, more than 90 percent of families feel welcome in the district's schools, Blake-Davis said. "So that is something that was great to hear and see. Other things that we need to work on a little bit is making sure they feel very connected to the curriculum, and they know exactly what their students are expected to know and do by the end of the year they're in," she said. Becket-Washington is continuing to collaborate with local organizations like Jacob's Pillow, the library, and art center to provide enrichment opportunities for students and has been hosting family literacy nights and other events to encourage engagement from families, McCloskey said. Craneville has been collaborating with the parent-teacher organization and has been partnering with community members like Dalton Police Sgt. Tyler Miller and comfort dog Wendell to engage with students. Similarly, Kittredge is work with the parent-teacher group on ways to bring families and the community into the school and are exploring new community partnerships. Nessacus and Wahconah are encouraging its families and staff to use ParentSquare, which is a component of the district effort to strengthen family and community partnerships by providing a centralized communication platform. The program allows for two-way communication, with families able to message administrators and teachers directly. It also provides options for families to receive digest versions of messages, consolidating information from multiple schools, and includes links to various district websites and resources. Start the year with all new gear and appliances at the Samsungs Happy New Gear Sale, running from December 30, 2024, to February 2, 2025! Enjoy amazing deals on the latest tech, from sleek new phones to appliances that make life easier. From trade in deals, freebies and discounts, theres no better time to upgrade to a Samsung device or home appliance! Its the perfect time to treat yourself or loved ones to upgrades at unbeatable prices. Shop now on Samsung.com, the Samsung Mobile Shop App, Shopee, and Lazada dont miss out on the best deals to kickstart your year! Upgrade Your Gear with these Exclusive Smartphone & Tech Deals Start the year with the latest tech and enjoy up to P8,000 extra on eligible trade-ins from December 30 to February 28. If you've been eyeing Samsung's flagship models, nows the time to trade in your old device for the Galaxy Z Fold6, Z Flip6, and Galaxy S24 series as it comes with a trade in value (on top of the appraised value and all other discounts) of up to P10,000. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S24 FE (512GB) also comes with a 10% discount and a free Galaxy Fit3. The savings dont stop there. Enjoy 5% off a wide range of Galaxy A-series models, including the A06, A16, A35, A25, and A55. These limited-time offers in December and January are perfect for gifting or treating yourself after the holidays. For those looking to upgrade their tech and focus on wellness, enjoy 15% off the Galaxy Watch Ultra, Watch7 Series, and Buds3, which are all equipped with advanced Galaxy AI features. You can also get great freebies with the Galaxy Tab S10 + | Ultra, which comes with a free random tab accessory with your purchase. These exclusive offers are available on Samsung.com and the Samsung Online Shop App, making it easier than ever to shop the latest tech. Your Upgraded 2025 Viewing and Gaming Experience Starts Here Level up your gaming setup in 2025 with up to 30% off select Samsung monitors, including the 27" Odyssey OLED G6 G60SD QHD 360Hz Gaming Monitor and the 27" Smart Monitor M5 M50D FHD. Bond with family and friends by watching your favorite K-dramas or hosting movie nights with a new Samsung TV. Get up to 34% off select models, plus a free 1-year Disney+ premium plan (P4,190 value). Experience stunning visuals with Samsung, the global #1 TV brand. Enjoy lifelike picture quality and free access to exciting shows with Samsung TV Plus. Whether binge-watching the latest series or rewatching holiday classics, your viewing experience will never be the same. Fresh Start, Fresh AppliancesSave While You Upgrade Celebrate the New Year with amazing deals on Samsung home appliances! Enjoy great discounts or freebies with your purchase, like getting a free Galaxy Watch Ultra (worth P40,990) when you buy the 25+15 kg Bespoke AI Laundry Front-load Washer Dryer Combo. It's the perfect time to upgrade and simplify your post-holiday laundry. Cool off with great offers on air conditioners! From Jan. 13-17 and Jan. 28 - Feb. 2, 2025, get a 5% voucher on selected Samsung wall-mounted split-type ACs, available on Samsung.com, Shopee, and Lazada. Then be among the first 100 customers to purchase a Samsung WindFree Wall-Mounted Split-Type AC between December 30, 2024, and January 31, 2025, on Samsung.com and get a free microwave. These energy-efficient models, powered by AI, feature ECO Mode and SmartThings integration for effortless cooling. Looking to eat healthier? Enjoy fantastic deals on kitchen appliances like Samsung refrigerators and smart ovens. Check out the Samsung Smart Oven 35L with HotBlast Technology, which is now at 19% off, as it comes with air fry and steamer options for healthier food preparation. You can also get an additional 5% discount when you purchase selected home appliances using easy installment plans from Samsung.com or on the Samsung Shop app. #NewYearNewGear with Samsung As the year ends, dont miss out on Samsungs Happy New Gear Sale, offering amazing discounts on smartphones, tech, and appliances to kickstart 2025. For Metrobank cardholders, youre in luck with the Metrobank exclusive offer available from December 30, 2024 to January 21, 2025, with 5% off and an extra 1 months worth of free cashback for selected Galaxy devices. For more information on Samsungs Happy New Gear sale, visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/offer/new-year/. Terms and conditions apply. DTI Fair Trade Permit Nos. FTEB- 210137, 210128, 210145, 210159, 210140 Series of 2024 Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Conclave screenwriter Peter Straughan has fired back at Megyn Kellys fiery comments about the religious drama. Hours before director Edward Bergers movie, starring Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci and Isabella Rossellini, went on to win the Golden Globe for Best Screenplay Motion Picture at the January 5 ceremony, Kelly called it the most disgusting anti-Catholic film. *Warning spoilers for Conclave to follow* Just made the huge mistake of watching the much-celebrated Conclave & it is the most disgusting anti-Catholic film I have seen in a long time, Kelly, 54, posted on X/Twitter. Shame on Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci & John Lithgow for starring in it & shame on director Edward Berger (among others). Written by Straughan and adapted from Robert Harriss 2016 novel of the same name, Conclave is about Fienness Cardinal Lawrence, whos tasked with electing a new pope. Spoiler: They make THE POPE INTERSEX! This is the big exciting twist at the end. I wish I had known so I wouldnt have watched it. There are almost no redeeming characters in the movie every cardinal is morally bankrupt/repulsive, continued the conservative pundit, who was raised Catholic. Megyn Kelly tore into Conclave calling it anti-Catholic and disgusting ( Getty Images/Focus Features ) The only exception of course is the intersex pope (who surprise! has female reproductive parts) & the cardinal who keeps her secret bc of course that kind of Catholic secret-keeping must be lionized. Im disgusted. What a thing to release to streaming just in time for Christmas. They would never do this to Muslims, but Christians/Catholics are always fair game to mock/belittle/smear. Speaking to reporters backstage after his win for Best Screenplay, Straughan addressed Kellys rant, arguing: I dont think the film is anti-Catholic. I would quote the whole message of which is about the church always having to the spiritual core, because to me, that is a very central Catholic idea that I was brought up with. I stand by it, the British playwright said. Conclave went on to win one of its six Golden Globe nominations. It was also nominated for Best Motion Picture Drama, Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture Drama, Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role, Motion Picture, Best Director Motion Picture, and Best Original Score Motion Picture. The movie has been a hit with critics and is available to stream now on Peacock in the U.S. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Shogun star Cosmo Jarvis has responded to claims he will be the next person to play James Bond in the blockbuster franchise. After Daniel Craig, 56, announced he would be retiring after appearing in No Time to Die in 2021, a number of actors have been rumoured to replace him in the iconic role, including Idris Elba, Tom Hardy, and the favourite to replace him, Aaron-Taylor Johnson. Among them is the unlikely Jarvis, 35, who plays the first western Samurai in the critically-acclaimed drama set in Imperial Japan, Shogun. The programme won big at the Golden Globes on Monday (6 January) winning all categories in which it was nominated including the prestigious Best Television Drama Series, Best Actor and Best Actress in a Television Series for first-time winners Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai, and Best Supporting Actor in Television for Tadanobu Asano. Asked whether he had any response to rumours that he was in contention to play the British spy, Jarvis stuttered as he replied: I dont know how to construct a according to Deadline. He then added, I wish them all the best in their search, as he shut down the speculation. Craig had the longest continuous reign as the lead in the movie franchise based on the novels first released by Ian Fleming in 1953. The story was adapted for the big screen in 1962, with Sean Connery being the first to star as the protagonist in Dr No. Jarvis shut down rumours that he would be the next James Bond ( AFP via Getty Images ) He starred in five films, starting with Casino Royale in 2006. He then played the famous spy in Quantum of Solace in 2008, Skyfall (2012), Spectre (2015), and announced he would be retiring after appearing in No Time To Die in 2021. The actor gave a hilariously brutal response to questions about who would serve as his replacement earlier this year. If you were to pass the James Bond torch, who would you love to see play him?, he was asked in an interview with Variety. He responded, I dont care. Taylor-Johnson, 33, was first rumoured for the role in January 2023 after it was reported that producer Barbara Broccoli had been left impressed by a screen test with the actor, whose credits include Kick-Ass, Bullet Train and Nowhere Boy. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Demi Moore made an emotional career admission during a rousing acceptance speech at the Golden Globes. The Hollywood star won Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture Musical or Comedy for her role in The Substance, the French body horror sleeper hit that had cinemagoers running for the doors. Moore, whose credits include Ghost, Indecent Proposal and A Few Good Men, was visibly surprised after taking home the trophy, and called it the first thing she has ever won during her 45-year career in the acting industry. Ive been doing this a long time like over 45 years and this is the first time Ive ever won anything as an actor, she told the crowd, before opening up about the fact she considered quitting the industry before being cast in The Substance. Thirty years ago, I had a producer tell me I was a popcorn actress and, at that time, I made that mean this wasnt something I was allowed to have. That I could do movies that made a lot of money, but that I couldnt be acknowledged, and I bought in and I believed that. Demi Moore wins at the 2025 Golden Globes ( YouTube ) Moore said this thought corroded her to the extent that she thought a couple of years ago that maybe this was it, maybe I was complete, that I had done what I was supposed to do. The actor said she was at a low point when the script for The Substance, written by Coralie Fargeat, found its way to her. The universe told me, You are not done, Moore said. Moore said she celebrates the win as a marker for my wholeness, for the love thats driving me and the gift of doing something I love. Her speech received extended applause from the crowd, with the ceremonys host Nikki Glaser comedically wishing luck to whoever won next for having to follow her. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free The Los Angeles event also saw big wins for divise Netflix musical Emilia Perez, Brady Corbets epic drama The Brutalist and TV series Shogun, whose lead stars Hiroyuki Sanada, Anna Sawai and Tadanobu Asano all reigned supreme in the acting categories. Find the full list of Golden Globe 2025 winners here. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The 2025 Golden Globes was full of surprises including Fernanda Torres beating out Nicole Kidman, Tilda Swinton, and Kate Winslet to win Best Actress. Torres, 59, took home her first Golden Globe on Sunday night (5 January) for the film Im Still Here, becoming the first Brazilian female actor to win the award for Best Actress in a Drama. Her victory was one of the evenings many notable moments, with Torres herself looking shocked at hearing her name called by presenter Viola Davis. Torress category was considered a competitive one, with other nominees including Pamela Anderson for The Last Showgirl, Angelina Jolie for Maria, Nicole Kidman for Babygirl, Tilda Swinton for The Room Next Door, and Kate Winslet for Lee. My god, I didnt prepare anything because I was glad already, Torres admitted during her acceptance speech. And this is such an amazing year for female performances. There are so many actresses here who I admire so much. Torres went on to dedicate the award to her mother, stating: She was here 25 years ago. And this is proof that art can endure through life, even in difficult moments like this amazing story. Theres something that is happening now in the world with so much fear. And this is a film that helped us to think how to survive in tough times like this. Torres is the daughter of actor Fernanda Montenegro, who was previously nominated in the same category in 1999 for Central Station. She was nominated for an Oscar for the same role, eventually losing to Gwyneth Paltrow. open image in gallery ( Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP ) Montenegro was the first Brazilian female actor to be nominated, with her daughter now becoming the second. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free In Im Still Here, Torres plays Eunice Paiva, the wife of a former Brazilian congressman who is disappeared during the countrys military dictatorship, which ran from 1964 to 1985. The other winners of the night included Adrian Brodys low-budget immigration movie The Brutalist and Disney Pluss historical epic Shogun. open image in gallery Walter Salles, left, director of the film "I'm Still Here," and cast member Fernanda Torres pose for a portrait to promote the film ( 2024 Invision ) Zoe Saldana took home the acting prize for Best Musical/Comedy for her lead role in Netflixs Emilia Perez, with her co-star Selena Gomez who was nominated for the same prize being praised for her reaction to losing the award to Saldana. You can find the full list of winners here. You can catch up with everything that happened at the 2025 Golden Globes, including Seth Rogens bleeped joke and Demi Moores acceptance speech, at The Independents live blog here. An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated that Torres said she was late as opposed to glad. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Glen Powell and Nikki Glaser traded playful flirtations at the 2025 Golden Globes. Glaser, 40, who makes history as the first woman to host the Golden Globes solo, spoke to CNN last week, confessing that she thinks the 36-year-old Top Gun: Maverick star is hot. Powell belatedly responded to the comedians praise during the Golden Globes red carpet on January 5, telling CNN: Nikki, I feel the same way. You won the genetic lottery (and) youre funny as hell. Later that evening, Glaser opened the ceremony with a monologue full of barbs, including a quip about Sean Diddy Combss infamous freak-offs and thousands of bottles of baby oil. During her opening monologue, she again teased Powell, joking that she would see him later that night (wink wink). The actor attended the ceremony as a first-time nominee for his lead role in Netflixs rom-com Hit Man. He attended the show with his parents Cyndy Powell and Glen Powell Sr., who have joined him for past film premieres. Last May, Powells parents hilariously trolled him at the Hit Man screening in his hometown of Austin, Texas. Nikki Glaser and Glen Powell playfully flirted at the 2025 Golden Globes ( Getty Images ) Directed by Richard Linklater, Hit Man starred Powell as a professional killer who falls in love with a woman (Adria Arjona) he breaks protocol to help flee an abusive husband. Powell delivers the movie-star goods in Netflix action comedy, The Independents Clarisse Loughrey lauded in her four-star review of the film. Linklaters latest film works as proof of Powells versatility: hes goofy and sweet one minute, tough the next. Powell is up against Jesse Eisenberg (A Real Pain), Jesse Plemons (Kinds of Kindness), Hugh Grant (Heretic), Gabrielle LaBelle (Saturday Night) and Sebastian Stan (A Different Man) for the award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture Musical or Comedy. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Nikki Glaser pulled no punches as she kicked off the Golden Globes in Los Angeles, telling the A-List audience that the award show was Ozempics biggest night. The 40-year-old comedian, who is known for her dark and often offensive brand of humor, opened the 82nd annual awards show in Los Angeles by using her opening monologue to take aim at a variety of topics, including voting, Hollywood sex scandals and Timothee Chalamets facial hair. She is the first woman to solo host of the show, considered to be a bellweather for the forthcoming awards season. Im absolutely thrilled to be your host tonight, Glaser said. A room full of producers in at the Beverly Hilton and this time I have all my clothes on. Glaser entered the spotlight for her cutting, dark, and often offensive jokes during U.S. comedy roasts, including those of Bruce Willis, Alec Baldwin and Tom Brady. However, he assured her celebrity audience she would not be going for them. open image in gallery The 33-year-old used her opening monologue to take aim at a variety of topics including voting, Hollywood sex scandals, and Timothee Chalamets facial hair ( Penske Media via Getty Images ) Im not here to roast you tonight, how could I youre all so powerful. You could really do anything, except tell the country who to vote for, its ok youll do it next time, she said. The comedian went out to single out several famous faces, telling Zendaya: I woke up for all of your scenes in Dune Part Two. She added: Challengers, girl oh my God that was so good, that movie was more sexually charged than Diddys credit card. I know Im upset too, the afterparty isnt going to be as good this year but we have to move on. A Stanley Tucci freak-off just doesnt have the same ring to it.. No baby oil this year just lots of olive oil. Glaser went on to compliment Tilda Swindon on her role as Timothee Chalamet, before telling the star of A Complete Unkown You were great as Timothee Chalamet too this year... can I just say you have the most beautiful eyelashes on your upper lip. Turning to Hollywood hunk Glen Powell she added: What a year youve had! Glenn, you were in everything: Twisters, Hitman, my head when Im having sex with my boyfriend, prompting laughter from the crowds and Powell himself. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free open image in gallery The comedian went out to single out several famous faces including Zendaya ( REUTERS ) Glaser previously told The Independent that anticipation for the show had made her feel 42 weeks pregnant, and she was excited to deliver her jokes in front of the crowd they were meant for. She has also received multiple nominations, including at the Globes itself, as well as the Critics Choice Television Awards, Grammy Awards, and Primetime Emmy Awards, including an Emmy nomination for her latest special, Someday Youll Die for HBO. Glaser has previously cited Tina Fey, Amy Poehler and Ricky Gervais as inspirations for her hosting duties. According to The Telegraph, she asked the British comedian for tips and was told: Dont try to walk out there acting like youre an A-lister, just because youre invited. You wouldnt be if you werent the host. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Selena Gomez is receiving praise for her response to losing at the Golden Globes to her co-star Zoe Saldana. Gomez was nominated in two categories: Best Supporting Actress for her role in divisive Netflix musical Emilia Perez and Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series Musical or Comedy for Only Murders in the Building. However, Gomez lost in the former category to her fellow co-host Saldana, who herself beat category favourite Ariana Grande, who had been nominated for Wicked. Gomez was overjoyed for her co-star, though, and showing she had no problem with losing, stood up and jumped up and down, applauding as Saldana graced the stage. Viewers watching the ceremony at home couldnt get enough of Gomezs reaction, which has since gone viral on social media, with BuzzFeed's Spencer Althouse writing: I love Selena Gomezs reaction when co-star Zoe Saldana just beat her for the Golden Globe. she was ECSTATIC. It was also noted that Gomez mouthed Saldanas name before it was announced by Moana stars Dwayne Johnson and Aulii Cravalho, with another fan highlighting: Selena is the cutest, she was already looking at her and saying Zoe Zoe Zoe before they announced Zoe won. Crime musical drama Emilia Perez, directed by French filmmaker Jacques Audiard, has proved immensely divisive since its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024. open image in gallery Selena Gomez is seen with Benny Blanco. Gomez is being praised for her reaction to co-star Zoe Saldanas win ( Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP ) The plot of the Mexico-set film follows a lawyer, Rita (Zoe Saldana), who receives an unexpected offer from a fearsome cartel boss. After its premiere in Cannes, the film received a rapturous nine-minute standing ovation but the critics were not as certain about the end result as audience members were; Emilia Perez has received both five-star reviews as well as one-star reviews. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free But, at the 2025 Golden Globes, it defied its critics to win Best Motion Picture Musical or Comedy at the 2025 Golden Globes and Best Motion Picture Non-English Language. The Los Angeles event also saw big wins for Brady Corbets epic drama The Brutalist and TV series Shogun, whose lead stars Hiroyuki Sanada, Anna Sawai and Tadanobu Asano all reigned supreme in the acting categories. open image in gallery Selena Gomez in Emilia Perez ( Instagram ) Elsewhere, Demi Moore delivered a rousing speech after winning for body horror film The Substance, revealing that she almost quit acting a few years ago due to a lack of roles. Find the full list of Golden Globe 2025 winners here. Audiards previous films include Palme dOr winner Dheepan, as well as A Prophet, Rust and Bone and Paris, 13th District. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Will Smith has teased a potential role in an upcoming The Matrix project with a cryptic social media post. The Bad Boys star, 56, has previously spoken about the fact that he turned down the role of Neo in the original groundbreaking 1999 film. The part was eventually played by Keanu Reeves. In a new video post on Smiths Instagram account, red computer text appears in the style of The Matrix credits. The message reads: In 1997, the Wachowskis offered Will Smith the role of Neo in The Matrix. Smith turned it down. He chose Wild Wild West, believing it was a better fit for him at the time. But the question remains: What would The Matrix have been like with Will Smith as Neo? The screen then goes blank before revealing two follow-up messages: Wake up, Will... and The Matrix has you... The Independent has reached out to Smiths representatives for comment. Will Smith at the Berlin premiere of Bad Boys For Life in January 2020 ( Getty Images for Sony Pictures ) In 2019, Smith posted a YouTube video explaining his decision to turn down the role of Neo. So after we made Men in Black, the Wachowskis came in and they had only done one movie, said Smith. I think that movie was called Bound. And they came in and made a pitch for The Matrix. And as it turns out, theyre geniuses! But theres a fine line in a pitch meeting between genius and what I experienced in the meeting. He jokily recalled their description of the now-iconic freeze frame jump: Were thinking like imagine youre in a fight. You, like, jump. Imagine if you could stop jumping in the middle of the jump. But then, people could see around you 360 degrees while you stop jumping. Were going to invent these cameras and then people can see the whole jump when you stop in the middle of the jump. Smith went on to star in Wild Wild West, which became one of the biggest flops of his career. However, the actor at the time had the humility to admit that The Matrix was probably better off without him. The original 1999 The Matrix spawned several sequels, The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions which were both released in 2003, and the more recent reboot The Matrix Resurrections (2021). In a four-star review of the latter, The Independent critic Clarisse Loughrey called the franchise the foremost reality-rupturing cultural phenomenon of the 20th century. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy LBC presenter Nick Ferrari has announced his engagement to long-term partner Clare Goodwin after 10 years together. The radio host, 65, shared the happy news on ITVs This Morning to hosts Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley on Monday. Ferrari told the show: I am engaged to be wed to Clare. We had the most idyllic Christmas. Wed already been to Lapland. I took my family, my grandchildren, Clare and her children. So, we had a brilliant time in Lapland. Then we were down in the south of France. And after 10 years together, Im adventurous, if nothing else, I finally decided she can make an honest man of me. He revealed he proposed in their favourite restaurant in the south of France, but he had kept her on her toes about when he would pop the question. Ferrari said he jokingly got down on one knee while they were in a home improvement store but then asked her to pass him a screwdriver instead. open image in gallery Nick Ferrari celebrates his twentieth anniversary as the host of LBC's Nick Ferrari at Breakfast show ( PA ) The radio host added that he picked up a jubilee clip, a type of band clamp for hoses, at the store which is what he initially proposed with, but that they bought a decent ring the next morning in the local village. Shephard said he was really thrilled for the couple and hailed it as a wonderful way to start the year. Ferrari celebrated his 20th anniversary as the host of LBCs Nick Ferrari at breakfast show last January. Ferrari previously worked as a journalist at tabloid newspapers The Sun and Sunday Mirror. He began on LBC in 2001, before launching his show as a mix of call-ins from the public and interviews with public figures in 2004. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Seth Rogen has dropped a new trailer for his forthcoming Apple TV+ series, The Studio, in which his workaholic movie studio executive Matt Remick tears into a Golden Globe red carpet swarming with social media influencers. In the teaser for the 10-episode comedy, released just in time for the 2025 Golden Globes, Rogens Matt is seen standing on the awards shows red carpet with his colleague Amy (played by Catherine OHara). Who are all these people? I dont recognize any of them, Matt says perturbed. Theyre influencers. Most of them dont even go inside. They just make their red carpet TikToks and leave, Amy responds before sarcastically throwing up a peace sign and sticking out her tongue. F*** is happening to this town? I remember when the red carpet for the Golden Globes actually stood for something, Matt replies. Oh yeah, OHara agrees, adding: But if you dont get thee phone-toting fetuses to focus on something longer than 15 seconds all of this is going the way of DEI departments. That would be a shame, Rogen retorts sarcastically. Seth Rogen as studio executive Matt in The Studio' ( Apple TV+ ) The new comedy directed, written and produced by Rogen and Emmy Award nominee Evan Goldberg follows Matt, a newly appointed head of embattled Continental Studios. As movies struggle to stay alive and relevant, Matt and his core team of infighting executives battle their insecurities as they wrangle narcissistic artists and craven corporate overlords in the ever-elusive pursuit of making great films, an official synopsis states. With their power suits masking their never-ending sense of panic, every party, set visit, casting decision, marketing meeting and award show presents them with an opportunity for glittering success or career-ending catastrophe, it continues. As someone who eats, sleeps and breathes movies, its the job Matts been pursuing his whole life, and it may very well destroy him. OHara, Kathryn Hahn, Chase Sui Wonders (Bodies Bodies Bodies) and Ike Barinholtz also feature, while Bryan Cranston will star. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free The Studio will premiere its first two episodes on March 26 on Apple TV+ with episodes streaming every Wednesday through May 21. The trailers release comes just in time for this years Golden Globes, where Rogen and OHara will appear as presenters. Meanwhile stand-up comedian Nikki Glaser makes history as the first woman to host the Golden Globes solo. Her appointment comes after Jo Koy became the last-minute 2024 host, delivering a widely panned performance. The divisive musical crime comedy Emilia Perez leads the pack at 10 nominations, while Hulus The Bear dominates the TV categories. Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey Get our The Life Cinematic email for free Get our The Life Cinematic email for free SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Kids can be a handful, right? From The Omen to The Midwich Cuckoos, film and television loves to show the disconnect between parents and progeny. But what if that dynamic was shaped, not by some demonic force, but by an apparent administrative error? Thats the question posed by ITVs new four-part drama, Playing Nice, which follows two families navigating the total upending of their domestic lives. Pete (James Norton) and Maddie (Niamh Algar) live a seemingly idyllic life in Cornwall with their young son Theo. Idyllic, that is, until they get word from the hospital: Theo might not be their biological son. It seems that there was a switch-up during his difficult birth, meaning that they swapped babies with another couple, Miles (James McArdle) and Lucy (Jessica Brown Findlay). With your cooperation we will get to the bottom of this, a hospital goon tells the couple. And they do cooperate they play nice, so to speak engaging with the other family, and agreeing to an arrangement where all four parents are involved in both childrens lives. But these are uncharted waters, and things rapidly begin to disintegrate. What begins as an elevator pitch to traumatise new parents becomes an examination of wealth and the legal system. Miles is some entrepreneurial bigwig, living in a vast modernist mansion overlooking the sea (which allows for barbs like you know what they say about people in glass houses), with the resources to fight both the hospital, first, and then the other couple. Can he simply bulldoze his way into sole custody of both the boys? Will he destroy Pete and Maddies relationship in the process? Or is this charismatic bloke with the big house hiding a darker purpose? The fact that the show is based on a novel by JP Delaney, whose books, like The Perfect Wife and The Girl Before, have always proven successful potboilers, ought to give you some sense of where this is going. While the set-up sounds plausible and sickening baby mix-ups do happen, infrequently, in hospitals, and have been the source of documentaries and TV series in the past the show quickly slips into the thriller genre. The creeping improbability of the storyline ought to be indicated by the fact that Pete and Maddie are depicted as too poor to challenge Miles, despite owning and operating the trendiest restaurant in Cornwall, and too stupid to ever think to, you know, hire a lawyer. Instead, the show leans into its narrative daftness to ratchet up the tension. A few years ago, it seemed like the murder mystery might be having a renaissance. Spurred on by Knives Out, the classic whodunnit a self-contained, logical case unfolding under a detectives microscope felt like it scratched a psychological itch. But that trend has been rapidly superseded on TV by the rambling, illogical mystery-cum-thriller genre, almost all of which are adapted from bestselling airport books. James Norton as Pete in the new four-part drama ( ITV ) Its not just Delaneys work (The Girl Before was also adapted for the BBC), but that of other authors like Harlan Coben (Missing You, Fool Me Once, The Stranger), Liane Moriarty (Big Little Lies, Nine Perfect Strangers, Apples Never Fall), Elin Hildebrand (The Perfect Couple), Louise Doherty (Apple Tree Yard), Sarah Vaughan (Anatomy of a Scandal), Jean Hanff Korelitz (The Undoing), Celeste Ng (Little Fires Everywhere) I could go on. Somehow these shows are all aesthetically identical, despite different plots and locations. Playing Nices director, Kate Hewitt, and writer, Grace Ofori-Attah, relocate the action from London to the South West, turning the Cornish Riviera into a seaside idyll to match Monterey or Nantucket. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Everything feels glossy and anonymised, even the central couple. Norton who seems trapped on ITV when, by rights, he should be a movie star provides a lacklustre performance (Go girl give us nothing!), while Algar is offered little more than the opportunity to look worried (a seemingly contagious condition: Brown Findlays Lucy has also contracted it). Only McArdle, as the menacing Miles, seems to be having any fun. Be careful, be very, very careful, he growls in a thick Glaswegian accent thats at odds with Nortons intermittent attempts at a Cornish lilt. Once Playing Nice has drifted from its nightmarish premise into this bland, generic porridge, it loses both its tension and its purpose. Its a shame, because theres a good human thriller buried in there, about the interpersonal challenges of unriddling an unthinkable situation. But what we get, instead, is another whiplash-inducing, overripe shock fest, which privileges handbrake turns over steady handling. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Three Chinese nationals have been arrested in the Democratic Republic of Congo for allegedly illegally smuggling gold and silver bars. The gold and silver bars as well as $800,000 (650,000) in cash were recovered from a speeding car, concealed in the seats, Jean Jacques Purusi, governor of the South Kivu province, said. This is the second time in a month that Chinese nationals have been arrested for suspected smuggling in the mineral-rich African country, which has been plundered by foreign groups for gold, diamond and silver. The illegal mineral trade is a longstanding problem that has fueled conflict, corruption and human rights abuses as armed militias and criminal groups often control mining operations in remote areas, forcing miners into dangerous and exploitative labour. Mr Purusi said a speeding car was chased and stopped in Mashango village in Walungu and the gold bars were discovered after a thorough search, according to Actualite CD. The governor claimed that the accused were connected to influential people, whom he did not identify, in the capital Kinshasa. I understood that if we were not careful, we risked missing them. We learned that the minerals were to leave today," he said. Former militia fighters work in a makeshift mine digging for gold in the town of Ika Barrier, Democratic Republic of Congo ( AP ) Last month, at least 17 Chinese nationals were detained for allegedly running an illegal gold mine in the country. They were later freed and allowed to return to China. The governor expressed shock over their release. He claimed that the miners owed the government $10m (8m) in unpaid taxes and fines. Meanwhile, activists in recent years have raised concerns over the rapid encroachment of a Chinese gold mine in the eastern Ituri province into the Okapi Wildlife Reserve, an endangered World Heritage site. Residents and wildlife experts say the mining is polluting rivers and soil, decimating trees, swelling the population, and increasing poaching, with little accountability. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy North Korea fired a ballistic missile out to sea off its east coast on Monday, South Koreas military reported. The missile flew 1,100km and landed between the Korean peninsula and Japan, the joint chiefs of staff said. It was presumed to be a single medium-range ballistic missile launched from somewhere in Pyongyang, the military said. The Japanese defence ministry confirmed the projectile splashed down in the Sea of Japan just minutes after its launch was announced. The launch came as US secretary of state Antony Blinken visited South Korea amid a deepening political crisis sparked by a shortlived declaration of martial law last month by now-impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol. Mr Blinken was reportedly holding talks with South Korean allies about the North Korean nuclear threat and other pressing matters. At a year-end political conference, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un had pledged to enforce the toughest anti-US policy. He had criticised Washingtons attempts to bolster security cooperation with Seoul and Tokyo, referring to it as a nuclear military bloc for aggression. Mondays launch was North Koreas first in two months. Pyongyang fired at least seven ballistic missiles off its east coast on 5 November, hours before the US presidential election. The missiles flew to an altitude of 100km and covered a range of 400km before falling into the ocean outside Japans exclusive economic zone. open image in gallery A man walks past a TV broadcasting a news report on North Korea firing a ballistic missile out to sea off its east coast, in Seoul ( REUTERS ) A few days earlier, North Korea had fired its largest intercontinental missile, which flew a record distance in a demonstration that it could strike the US. The launch of Hwasong-19 had drawn immediate condemnation from the UN as well as the US and its allies. In spite of sanctions announced by the UN security council, North Korea continues to progress in its nuclear weapons and missile programmes. Mr Kim has consistently rejected denuclearisation talks. According to the 2024 annual threat assessment prepared by US intelligence agencies, Mr Kim views nuclear weapons as central to North Koreas security and deterrence strategy. open image in gallery North Korean leader Kim Jong Un delivers a speech at a meeting in Pyongyang (File) ( KCNA/KNS/AP ) North Korea also unveiled a purported tactical nuclear warhead and claimed it could be mounted on at least eight delivery systems, including an unmanned underwater vehicle and cruise missiles, the assessment states. According to a report published last November by the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation, a nonprofit based in Washington, North Korea conducted over 220 missile tests between 2012 and 2024 and debuted a variety of missiles with increasing ranges. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Investigators in South Korea are seeking an extension to the arrest warrant for suspended president Yoon Suk Yeol, after a dramatic standoff that ended in their failure to take him into custody. The countrys anti-corruption agency has asked the police to take over the execution of the warrant, which was due to expire at midnight local time on Monday. The validity of the warrant expires today. We plan to request an extension from the court today, Lee Jae Seung, deputy director of the Corruption Investigation Office, or CIO, said. The CIO had sought police assistance to detain Mr Yoon and would coordinate with them regarding the extension, he added. Police have reportedly raised legal concerns about the request to take over Mr Yoons arrest, and instead opted to consult with the CIO while maintaining a joint investigation team with the defence ministry. Mr Yoon has resisted efforts to detain him, and the impeached leader remains holed up inside the presidential palace, where his security service prevented investigators from executing the arrest warrant on Friday, leading to a six-hour standoff. The CIO said earlier in a statement that it had notified the police to take charge of executing the warrant for the president. The warrant was issued by the Seoul Western District Court on 31 December after Mr Yoon repeatedly failed to comply with the CIOs summons for questioning over his shortlived declaration of martial law earlier that month. The CIO sent us an official letter requesting our cooperation without prior consultations, a police official told the state news agency Yonhap. We are internally carrying out a legal review. Mr Yoon imposed martial law on 3 December but it was quickly overturned by the parliament, despite attempts by the security forces to prevent lawmakers from voting. Protesters wait for a rally demanding the arrest of impeached South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol in Seoul on 6 January 2025 ( Associated Press ) Mr Yoons lawyers maintain that the warrant is illegal and are pursuing further legal action. Mr Yoons legal team filed complaints on Monday against the head of the anti-corruption agency, Oh Dong-woon, and 10 others over last weeks failed attempt to detain him, local media reported. Regarding the plans to extend the arrest warrant, Mr Yoons lawyer, Yun Gap-keun raised an objection calling it judicial overreach. Watching the CIOs investigative behaviour that lacks legal grounds raises doubts about its qualifications and abilities as a state agency, he said in a statement. South Koreas Constitutional Court has scheduled Mr Yoons impeachment trial to start on 14 January, and it will proceed in his absence if he chooses not to attend. On Monday, around 30 lawmakers from the ruling party staged a protest outside the presidential palace, opposing efforts to detain Mr Yoon. Last Friday, the CIO aborted an attempt to arrest the suspended president after a standoff with presidential security staff. The CIO is pretending as if it has the right to exercise the authority over investigations when it does not have the rights, representative Kim Gi-hyeon of the ruling People Power Party (PPP) said. PPPs interim leader, Kwon Young-se told reporters that the warrant itself is problematic because the CIO does not have the authority to investigate (insurrection charges), and it has no authority to subcontract it to the police. Hundreds of South Koreans braved freezing temperatures overnight, demanding Mr Yoons ouster and arrest over his short-lived martial law decree on 3 December. With barely a day left before the execution deadline for Yoon Seok Yeols detainment warrant, the presidential security service continues to hide a criminal and the Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials cannot be more relaxed, Kim Eun-jeong, an activist said on Sunday. The Associated Press reported that the presidential security staff was seen installing barbed wire around the suspended presidents residence, possibly in anticipation of yet another detention attempt. Park Chan-dae, floor leader of the main opposition Democratic Party urged the anti-corruption agency to proceed quickly to detain Mr Yoon. He accused the agency of hesitating and letting time slip away. Meanwhile, US secretary of state Antony Blinken is visiting Seoul to meet top officials and reaffirm the US-South Korea alliance amid the countrys political turmoil. He is also holding talks with South Korean officials regarding North Koreas nuclear programme even as Pyongyang fired an intermediate-range ballistic missile on Monday. The launch was the first in about two months and just weeks away from Donald Trump taking over the White House. Additional reporting by agencies For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A social media influencer revealed that he had fallen for a digital scam that held him hostage for almost 40 hours, in the latest illustration of rampant cyber crime in India. In an Instagram video on Sunday, Ankush Bahuguna narrated how he felt forced giving into the demands of the scammers even when they asked him to make several large financial transactions and keep everything from family and friends. Ive been missing from social media and everywhere for the last three days because I was held hostage by some scammers, he began. I am still in a little bit of a shock. Ive lost money. I lost my mental health to this. I cant believe that this happened to me. Mr Bahuguna received a call from an unlisted international number telling him his package had been cancelled for delivery and asking to press a number for further information and support. Curious about a package that he did not remember sending, the influencer pressed the number, a decision he described as the biggest mistake of his life. He was put through to a customer support representative, who went on to tell him the package had been seized by police as it contained illegal substances, but did not explain further. Mr Bahuguna was further told there was an arrest warrant out for him and he had only an hour to contact police and explain that his identity had been stolen. Im just panicking, Mr Bahuguna recalled. And then he convinces me that I dont have enough time to go to the police station, so he will do me a favor by connecting me to the police directly. Mr Bahuguna was connected to someone claiming to belong to the Mumbai police via a video call on Whatsapp who proceeded to interrogate the influencer. He was told by the policeman that he was a prime suspect in a national case and was accused of money laundering and drug trafficking, which meant he was now in self custody. They isolated me completely. I was not allowed to pick up calls. I was not allowed to message people or reply to their messages, let anybody in the house. They told me that if I tried to reach out to anyone, they would arrest me and harm the people I contacted, he said in the video. For the next 40 hours, he said, the police asked him to turn off every electronic gadget in the house and show them on video he had done so, forbade him from answering any phone calls or responding to text messages. They played good cop, bad cop, breaking me down mentally. I was crying, but they kept me on the call for 40 hours straight, he said. open image in gallery Ankush Bahuguna said the scammers placed him in a 40-hour digital arrest ( Getty Images ) After a while, Mr Bahuguna was told to make multiple fishy financial transactions, which he did, even travelling to a bank to do so. They took my bank details. They gathered so much personal information about my life, he said. They told me, Your parents are in danger and If you try to contact anyone, well arrest you. Mr Bahugunas friends and family called and texted him while he was in self custody, but he was told by police to ensure he kept their concerns at bay. People were messaging me asking, Is someone holding you hostage? This is not normal behaviour. Do you need help? I was shaking, I was anxious, and I kept thinking, What is happening? What is going on? he said. I was literally crying and begging them. Mr Bahuguna finally managed to read one of the many messages he had received that mentioned digital arrest scams, which have become increasingly common in India. The thing with these scams is if you buy one lie, they will tell 10 more, and those will be scarier things, he said. In his caption of the video, the influencer thanked friends who had realised something was wrong and credited them with literally saving his life. I feel so lucky to have friends with such strong instincts who noticed a change in my behaviour even when they were getting I am okay texts from me. They literally saved the day. Imagine if they hadnt come looking for me or looked for clues! Id probably still be in that cyber arrest and wouldve lost all my money, he said. Pls beware of this scam. I know a lot of you are aware of it but I dont think a lot of people understand the extent to which these scammers can go to control you! The Independent has reached out to Mr Bahuguna for comment. open image in gallery Delhis cyber police say scammers stole 42.18m in 2024 ( Getty ) The digital arrest scam was the subject of scores of news reports on cyber crime in 2024. In such a scam, the perpetrators pose as law enforcement officials and intimidate victims with accusations of financial misconduct, tax evasion, or in Mr Bahugunas case, drug trafficking. The victims are coerced into transferring large sums of money to bank accounts or UPI IDs on the pretext of assisting with the investigation or refundable security deposit. According to Delhis cyber police, 2024 saw a significant rise in cyber fraud cases, with 61,525 complaints received until June, a considerable increase from the 55,267 cases reported during the same period last year. The data also shows that the scammers stole Rs 4.52bn (42.18m), a 158 percent increase from the Rs 1.75bn (16.33m) in 2023. In November, a 69-year-old mother of two from Hyderabad, in the southern state of Telangana, lost her lifes savingsa sum of Rs 56m (0.52m)after making 14 transactions over 20 days on the instructions of scammers who accused her of being involved in a money laundering case. In December, a 39-year-old software engineer from Bengaluru city reportedly lost Rs 118m (1.1m) in a similar scam that lasted 18 days. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Blinkit, a quick-commerce platform known for fast grocery deliveries, announced last week that it was branching out into emergency healthcare with a 10-minute ambulance service, sparking a discussion in India over its implications for workers and users alike. Chief executive Albinder Dhindsa said the idea is to provide an affordable ambulance service, starting with five vehicles in Gurugram, a satellite city to the west of Delhi, and expanding across India over the next two years. Each ambulance is fitted with essential life-saving equipment, like oxygen cylinders and automated external defibrillators, with a flat fee of Rs 2,000 (19) per trip. Mr Dhindsa emphasised that profit is not a motive for the service, saying the aim was to plug critical gaps in ambulance availability in India. We will operate this service at an affordable cost for customers and invest in really solving this critical problem for the long term, he said in a social media post. Despite such assurances, commentators raised concerns about the feasibility and ethics of the service in the wider context of the treatment of gig workers by quick-commerce platforms. Comedian Kunal Kamra accused companies like Blinkit and food delivery apps Zomato and Swiggy of exploiting delivery workers by making them work gruelling hours for unsustainable wages. In a viral post on social media, Kamra criticised these platforms for abusing the unfair advantage they have over the unemployed, demanding transparency regarding worker pay, hours, and accident compensation. Platform owners exploit gig workers and they arent job creators. They are landlords without owning any land, Kamra declared. Although platforms like Blinkit claim that workers can earn up to Rs 50,000 (467) per month under a flexible earn per delivery model, delivery agents and independent surveys suggest otherwise. Temporary delivery worker Dinesh Nalam described his earnings as inconsistent and unsustainable. Its hard to make Rs 25,000 (234) full time. Rs 40,000 (374) is like god tier, he was quoted as saying by Livemint after a brief stint with a separate delivery app. Reports from Bengaluru and Hyderabad show per-delivery earnings ranging between Rs 24 (0.22) and Rs 50 (0.46), far below expectations. The Independent has contacted Blinkit for a comment. Indias ambulance shortage is a longstanding problem. A report published last June by the consultancy Primus Partners noted that there were 7,814 ambulances registered in 2020, and after a significant uptick during the Covid pandemic the number reached a peak of 14,236 registrations in 2021. Subsequent years, however, saw a sharp decline in total registrations, with 12,737 in 2022 and 11,950 in 2023. The pandemic highlighted the dire need for accessible emergency transportation, with many patients unable to find ambulances during critical moments. While Blinkits service aims to bridge this gap, critics remain divided over whether private intervention can adequately compensate for the lack of systemic reforms. While some social media commentators lauded the Blinkit service as innovative, others saw it as a reflection of deeper societal inequities. Adopting and applauding private services that should inherently be a state function will harm us all eventually, social media user Disha Verma wrote, describing the move as dystopian. The delivery workers are stretched to a great extent for compensation that is not justified at all, another user named Ganeshan Iyer remarked. Ten-minute delivery isnt a landmark thing; its sheer exploitation of humanity to satisfy the whims of the buyer. Many expressed scepticism over relying on a delivery app for life-and-death situations. Ambulances arent just about arriving on time; theyre about reliability, Shanaita Shandilya, a Gurugram resident, told Hindustan Times, adding she would prefer hospital-run services. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Fears have been raised over the safety of journalists in India after an investigative reporter was murdered and buried in a septic tank. Mukesh Chandrakar, 28, who ran a YouTube channel called Bastar Junction in the central Chhattisgarh state, had been missing since 1 January. His reporting had uncovered alleged irregularities in a 11.8m road project in the Bastar region, a hotbed of Maoist insurgency, prompting a government inquiry. After his family raised the alarm, police found the journalists body at a site owned by a local contractor who had been angry at his reporting. The Press Council of India and the Editors Guild of India have demanded a thorough inquiry, describing Chandrakars death as a matter of grave concern and urging the government to prioritise the safety of journalists, particularly those involved in field and investigative reporting. Protests have been staged by journalists in Bijapur demanding punishment for the perpetrators. Police said Chandrakars body was found on 3 January at a work site owned by a distant relative, Suresh Chandrakar. He was arrested, along with his brother Ritesh and two others. According to a report by India Today, the postmortem revealed the journalist had been brutally killed, suffering five broken ribs, 15 fractures to the head, a broken neck and having his heart ripped out. Bastar police chief Sundarraj P told a news conference: Our investigation revealed that Ritesh Chandrakar was related to Mukesh and the two frequently interacted. On 1 January at 8pm, they spoke on the phone before both went to Suresh Chandrakars compound in Chattanpara for dinner. An argument ensued when Ritesh accused Mukesh of interfering with their construction work. Ritesh and another man then attacked Mukesh with an iron rod, placed his body in a septic tank, and sealed it, he added. Chhattisgarh state chief minister, Vishnu Deo Sai, condemned the killing as a heartbreaking and profound loss to journalism and society, adding: The culprits will face the harshest punishment. Deputy chief minister Vijay Sharma announced the formation of a special investigation team to fast-track the case. Chandrakar was previously recognised for his role in securing the release of police commando Rakeshwar Singh Manhas, who had been abducted by Maoist militants in 2021. Chhattisgarh, rich in minerals but mired by corruption and violence, remains one of Indias most perilous regions for journalists. India itself is a dangerous place for journalists, ranking 159 in the World Press Freedom Index out of 180 countries, according to Reporters Without Borders. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The Golden Globes was full of stars ... and fashion faux pas. While the night saw big wins for TV series Shogun and movie Emilia Perez, some stars were not as successful when it came to their red-carpet looks. Bright blues, recycled dresses and all-white were some of the looks that didnt quite land as stars walked across the red carpet at the 2025 Golden Globes in Los Angeles on Sunday evening. Im sorry Elle Fanning but this dress is NOT it, one social media fan wrote about the The Girl from Plainville star. Click here to see our list of the best dressed. Fanning wasnt the only celebrity who saw jeers for their wardrobe choices. These are the most daring looks from the 2025 Golden Globes: Dwayne Johnson open image in gallery Dwayne Johnson in a lilac suit outside the 2025 Golden Globes. The wrestler was one of the outfits that missed the mark at the award ceremony ( Getty Images ) While the 52-year-olds playful attire complimented his kid-friendly role as the voice of Maui in Moana, Dwayne Johnsons lilac outfit didnt seem to fit the unspoken gold aesthetic at the 82nd annual awards ceremony. The wrestler-turned-actor known as The Rock looked to be dressed ready for a spring garden party rather than a glamorous Hollywood affair. Jennifer Coolidge open image in gallery Jennifer Coolidge dons an all-black gown with a white belt at the Golden Globes ( Getty Images ) Jennifer Coolidges kind-hearted, hilarious personality was unfortunately masked by her all-black gown at the Golden Globes. Rather than stepping out in a colorful, or even sparkly, dress, the performer was covered in a dark garment that dulled her bubbly personality. Elle Fanning open image in gallery Elle Fanning wears a Blamain gown to the Golden Globes that didnt land with online critics ( Getty Images ) Elle Fanning missed the mark on the 2025 Golden Globes red carpet in a billowing dress embellished with a cheetah-print neckline designed to resemble a 1953 haute couture design by Pierre Balmain. The ornate gown presented a confusing contrast between its fancy ballgown bottom and the pointed V-cut animal print top blended through a thin belt an additive that felt a bit like overkill. Kathryn Hahn open image in gallery Kathryn Hahn wears a two-tone belted dress to the Golden Globes ( Getty Images ) Kathryn Hahn arrived outside the 2025 Golden Globes in a two-tone gown that was not well-liked online. The 51-year-old actors ensemble was made up of a black, off-the-shoulder long-sleeve belted on top of a yellow skirt. X users werent too pleased with the witchy outfit, as many agreed it was one of their least favorites from the night. Kathryn Hahn STUNS in ugliest dress known to man, one harsh critic wrote, while another shared an image of Hahn next to the caption: My worst dressed. Some of these pain me. Andrew Scott open image in gallery Andrew Scott wears a blue suit at the 2025 Golden Globes ( Getty Images ) The 48-year-old Irish actor took too much of a risk and wore a bright blue Vivienne Westwood suit with a matching tie that looked like it was peeled from the walls of a babys nursery. One amused fan online poked fun at the ensemble. So he found his fathers suit from a Wedding in 1973, user @HorseOneThms wrote on X. Cate Blanchett open image in gallery Cate Blanchett dons a yellow-gold dress at the Golden Globes, that some noted she previously wore at another red carpet event ( Getty Images ) The 55-year-old actor arrived on the red carpet in a recycled yellow-gold, floor-length dress with crystals decorating the tops of her shoulders like a coat of armor. Blanchetts dress stood out because it was the exact Louis Vuitton gown she donned at the Cannes Film Festival in 2024. Ali Wong open image in gallery Ali Wong wore a red dress with ruffles on it and black operas gloves to the 2025 Golden Globes ( Getty Images ) The 42-year-old comedian arrived at the event in a red, strapless gown by Balenciaga, paired with black opera gloves and matching shoes. The look also featured a satin, red bow in the middle. Her dress turned heads because of the long ruffles that made her look like she was stuck in a bunch of seaweed. Kerry Washington open image in gallery Kerry Washington wears a pink, one-shoulder dress to the Golden Globes, and critics are claiming the fabric looks cheap ( Getty Images ) The Scandal alum, 47, opted for a neon pink, one-shoulder dress with a long train. She paired the outfit with black opera gloves, matching heels, and sheer tights. However, many fans on X were not fond of this outfit, with claims that the dresss fabric didnt appear to be the best quality. What happened to Kerry Washington? She looked awful. Looked like a cheap bulky fabric was wrapped around her, and Her shoes were two sizes too big! This great Actress deserves a better stylish! one person wrote, while another tweeted: Oh no, Kerry Washington. What is you doing?! Heidi Klum open image in gallery Heidi Klum dons a green gown by Maria Lucia Hohan on the Golden Globes red carpet ( Getty Images ) The 51-year-old model posed outside The Beverly Hilton Hotel in a shimmering, floor-length gown by Maria Lucia Hohan with cutouts just below her chest and a high slit in the front. While the delicate fabric gracefully swept around her, the bright green color was a gutsy choice amid the sea of gold around her. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Kylie Jenner and Timothee Chalamet were spotted sitting together at the 2025 Golden Globes amid rumors the couple is expecting their first baby together. Inside The Beverly Hilton Hotel, the makeup mogul and the Dune star were photographed giggling at a table next to each other with their backs to the camera. The two have been dating for just over a year now since they went public with their relationship in September 2023. Jenner was absent from the red carpet before the 82nd annual ceremony, while Chalamet arrived posing in a suit adorned with a thin blue scarf that paid homage to his role as Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown. Speculation the 27-year-old, who already shares two kids with her ex-boyfriend Travis Scott, was pregnant with her third baby arose just a few days ago after the star posted a TikTok in which she covered her stomach with a shopping bag the entire time. In the video posted to her page on December 30, Jenner sat with her 6-year-old daughter, Stormi, and her 6-year-old niece, Chicago West, as they gave a haul of all the beauty items they bought at Ulta. Fans immediately noticed the big bag blocking Jenners stomach, prompting debate over whether or not she may have been hiding a baby bump. Kylie Jenner and Timothee Chalamet were pictured looking cozy at the 2025 Golden Globes ( Penske Media via Getty Images ) Jenner and Chalamet have yet to respond to the rumors. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Zendaya and Tom Holland are officially engaged, according to multiple reports. Last night (January 5), the Euphoria star arrived at the 2025 Golden Globes with a massive diamond on her ring finger, sparking immediate speculation that she and her boyfriend of four years had got engaged. Citing sources, People and TMZ reported Monday that Holland proposed at one of Zendayas family homes over the holidays. The Independent has contacted the pairs representatives for comment. The reported confirmation comes after a Los Angeles Times reporter asked the star outright if she was engaged at the Globes on Sunday. The actor smiled coyly and shrugged her shoulders mysteriously, wrote the LA Times journalist. Outside The Beverly Hilton Hotel, Zendaya silently posed for the cameras, flashing a cushion-cut center diamond set on a thin band that didnt seem to fit with the rest of her jewelry. The ring on her left hand wasnt featured in the press release detailing the diamonds she wore by Bvlgari. open image in gallery Zendayas diamond rings on the 2025 Golden Globes red carpet ( Getty Images ) Zendaya and Holland met while filming Spider-Man: Homecoming in which Holland starred as the superhero and Zendaya played his love interest, MJ. The two have notoriously kept the details of their relationship under wraps, though theyve showed each other love and support on social media over the years. Fans were sent into a frenzy online when they spotted the ring on Zendayas left hand with many frantically questioning whether the star was hard-launching her new relationship status. X/Twitter user @ainsley_plauche asked: Ummmm engagement ring reveal!!?? Meanwhile, @boredandtiredk begged for confirmation. They wrote: I KINDA need answers for this cuzthis ring Zendaya is wearing is giving nothing BUT engagement imma be real Other fans were convinced the jewelry on her left hand was an engagment ring, arguing the design and setting didnt fit the aesthetic of the rest of her ensemble. User @beccatawney said: ...and it doesnt match the rest of the jewelry shes wearing. The ring on Zendayas right hand appeared more glamorous like a statement piece big and bulky compared to the modest piece on the opposite hand. Shes well aware of the significance of the left ring finger, another person online commented. open image in gallery Zendaya at the Gothams 34th annual film awards in December 2024 ( Getty Images ) The Challengers star was last photographed out in early December 2024 with a different diamond ring on the middle finger of her left hand. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The Golden Globes are a social affair with occasional breaks for awards. Its a game of seconds inside the packed ballroom as A-listers attempt to get in as many hugs and hellos as possible before the cameras start broadcasting to the world again. Its a tricky room to navigate, packed to the brim with banquet tables. Some choose to stay put, like Steve Martin, a fortress in a well-guarded, hard to get to seat against a wall. Others, like Andrew Scott and Challengers filmmaker Luca Guadagnino couldnt seem stay in their seats there's just too many fun people to chat with. Nerves before the show As the first major awards show of the year, a wide-open field of contenders, and a fairly new group of voters, there was a bit of nervous anticipation in the air as everyone wondered how the night would play out. Former Spider-Man Andrew Garfield got caught in a logjam of celebrities blocking the stairs to the main floor. He made a get going gesture to Zendaya, whose new ring on her left hand had onlookers buzzing. But the train of her burnt orange Louis Vuitton ballgown was proving to be its own blockade. Garfield ran to the rescue, after giving Colman Domingo a quick kiss on the cheek and grabbed the back of the train to help Zendaya navigate the stairs, and Daniel Craig and Kate Winslet exchanged hellos. Somehow Angelina Jolie and daughter Zahara made their way through the flurry, mostly unbothered. Elsewhere, Miley Cyrus sidled up to the Baby Reindeer people, before finding her proper seat near Pamela Anderson and Gia Coppola. The party in the other room Just off to the side of the ballroom, in a separate room away from the sight of the broadcast cameras, attendees could gather for extra Nobu bites, cocktails and deserts. Keith Urban was enjoying the food at the sushi bar, sampling Nobus yellowtail and jalapeno bites and going back for seconds. He was soon joined by Ewan McGregor and his wife Mary Elizabeth Winstead. Nearby Kirsten Dunst and husband Jesse Plemons beelined to Ayo Edebiri where Dunst gushed about Edebiris grey Loewe suit. She made her way to the long bar line telling Plemons to stay put with Edebiri. With no television screens broadcasting the live show it was easy to miss cues about commercials and categories. Thats how Margaret Qualley accidentally missed the moment of her co-star Demi Moores win, and moving speech. The joy of the commercial break For viewers at home commercial breaks can take an eternity, but in the room theres never enough time to make it to the bathroom, to get a drink from the bar (the tables had only champagne, wine and water), or to chat. But efforts are made to work the room, and race back to where you need to be before the countdown clock hits zero. After his sushi snack, Urban found his way back to Nicole Kidman and the Wicked group, spending quite a bit of time talking animatedly to Ariana Grande. They were interrupted to pose for a photo but soon picked up where they left off. Nearby, Cara Delevingne made her way to say hello to Cynthia Erivo, while Kidman was greeted by Naomi Watts. On a different level, Daniel Craig stopped to congratulate Baby Reindeer winner Jessica Gunning. That was amazing, Craig said. Gunning could barely pause to process the moment with the former James Bond before someone else was asking for a selfie. Zoe Saldana and Ali Wong also exchanged congratulations to one another, before Saldana spotted Netflix power publicist Lisa Tabak, letting out a yelp and running to hug her. Emma Stone sneaks by Should one not make it back to one's seat on the main floor before the commercial break ends, pleasant security guards put up a rope and hold guests back no matter how famous. At any given moment during the show, you could find quite a few famous faces waiting to get back to their seats. But Emma Stone, in her pixie haircut, managed to sneak by, gracefully bolting to her table as the best animated film nominees were read. Guadagnino was not so lucky and spent the next few categories in the holding pen, letting out an excited sound when Flow won. During the next category, best director, he clapped enthusiastically when Payal Kapadias name was read. The All We Imagine As Light director did not win the award Brady Corbet did for The Brutalist. After the show Kate Winslet ditched her sky-high black heels as she exited the ballroom, holding them casually in her hand and walking bare footed on the carpet to the lobby. Many celebrities quickly made their way out of the room, some heading to after parties in the hotel, others home. Keira Knightley and her husband James Righton lingered long after in the lobby catching up with The Brutalist star Felicity Jones, while Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco fielded autograph requests from fans. ___ For more coverage of the 2025 Golden Globe Awards, visit: https://apnews.com/hub/golden-globe-awards For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Pope Francis on Monday named Cardinal Robert McElroy of San Diego as the archbishop of Washington, tapping one of his most progressively like-minded allies to head the Catholic Church in the U.S. capital at the start of the second Trump Administration. McElroy, 70, replaces Cardinal Wilton Gregory, who at 77 is two years beyond the normal retirement age for bishops. The Vatican announced the appointment in a statement Monday. Francis has long had his eye on McElroy, making him bishop of San Diego in 2015 and then elevating him as a cardinal in 2022. McElroy has been one of a minority of U.S. bishops harshly criticizing the campaign to exclude Catholic politicians who support abortion rights from Communion, a campaign Francis has publicly criticized by insisting that bishops must be pastors, not politicians. He has also questioned why the U.S. bishops conference, which has leaned conservative in its leadership, consistently insists on identifying abortion as its preeminent priority. He has questioned why greater prominence was not given to issues such as racism, poverty, immigration and climate change. He has also expressed support for LGBTQ+ youth and denounced the bullying often directed at them, further aligning himself with Francis priorities as pope. McElroys appointment to Washington comes just a few weeks after Donald Trump, who takes office Jan. 20, nominated Brian Burch as U.S. ambassador to the Holy See. Burch, president and co-founder of the advocacy group CatholicVote, has criticized Francis and some of his policies on social media. Francis made the appointment ahead of his final meeting with President Joe Biden, who is making a last foreign trip to Italy this week. Biden emerged from a 2021 meeting with Francis by saying the pope told him to continue receiving Communion despite his position on abortion. He later received the sacrament at a Rome church. The Archdiocese of Washington includes the District of Columbia and five Maryland counties of Montgomery, Prince Georges, St. Marys, Calvert, and Charles. It has a total population of 3,050,847, of which 671,187 are Catholic. ___ Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the APs collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Starbucks said Monday it plans to open an outlet in Laos as it expands its network of more than 10,000 stores in Asian countries The company said it plans to open the shop in the Laotian capital Vientiane by next summer. The outlet will be operated by Coffee Concepts (Laos) Ltd., a part of Hong Kong-based Maxims Caterers Ltd. Starbuck said in a statement that it intends to use its global scale to have a positive impact and career opportunities in the impoverished, landlocked country bordered by Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, Vietnam and China. We are pleased to introduce the Starbucks brand into Laos, which further builds on our 20 year relationship with Starbucks to grow the coffee industry across Asia, said Michael Wu, Chairman and Managing Director, Maxims Caterers Limited. Many Laotians drink powdered coffee drinks that include milk and sugar, as is true across much of Asia, but the country of 7.2 million is a coffee exporter and has its own artisanal coffee roasters and shops. Before the coronavirus pandemic hit, Laos was drawing growing numbers of foreign tourists, with more than 4 million visiting in 2018. Local incomes have been rising, but still average around $300 a month. The company said in a statement that it intends to take a locally relevant approach" for its customers, both tourists and Laotions. We will take a thoughtful approach to driving sustainable growth in Laos and look forward to contributing to the countrys vibrant coffee culture," Starbucks said. Starbucks said it was monitoring the coronavirus situation but is still aiming at an opening in summer 2021. Laos, a landlocked country bordered by Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, Vietnam and China, has so far reported only 24 COVID-19 infections, according to a tally kept by the Johns Hopkins University. Such records are thought to understate the actual number of cases due to testing issues and large numbers of asymptomatic coronavirus cases. But pandemic precautions are severely limiting travel in the region. We will work closely with local health authorities, as we do in all markets, making decisions with the health of our partners and customers top of mind," Starbucks said. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Gunmen opened fire on a bus carrying Israelis in the occupied West Bank on Monday, killing two 70-year-old women and a 35-year-old policeman, Israel's military said. Israeli soldiers have launched widespread operations in the northern West Bank looking for the attackers. Israel captured the West Bank, Gaza and east Jerusalem in the 1967 Mideast war, and the Palestinians seek all three territories for their future state. Meanwhile, the war in Gaza is raging with no end in sight, although there has reportedly been recent progress in long-running talks aimed at a ceasefire and release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. Israel's war in Gaza has killed over 45,800 Palestinians, according to local health authorities, who say women and children make up more than half of those killed. They do not say how many of the dead were militants. The war began when Hamas-led militants stormed across the border in a massive surprise attack nearly 15 months ago, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting around 250. Some 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, at least a third of whom are believed to be dead. ___ Here's the latest: Militants in Gaza fire 3 rockets into Israel, no casualties JERUSALEM - Militants in Gaza fired three projectiles into Israel on Monday, one of which was intercepted, the Israeli military said. There were no reports of casualties, but the rockets damaged a home in the southern Israeli city of Sderot, which is located near Gaza. Israeli media reported it was the third time the same home had sustained damage from rockets from Gaza. After a long pause, militants in northern Gaza have launched near-daily rockets in recent weeks despite the ongoing Israeli military operations in the area. The launches highlighted that although Hamas has suffered major losses, they seem to repeatedly regroup after Israeli operations. Palestinian militants have fired thousands of rockets and missiles towards Israel since the war began on Oct. 7, 2023. Israels military offensive has turned vast swathes of Gaza into an uninhabitable wasteland, erasing whole neighborhoods. UN says Israel shot at one of its aid convoys in Gaza CAIRO Israeli soldiers opened fire on a United Nations aid convoy in central Gaza, according to a World Food Program, which provides desperately needed food and aid. None of the eight staff members were injured, the WFP said Monday. The WFP said the Israeli military shot at least 16 bullets toward their convoy of three vehicles on Sunday, despite receiving necessary clearance from the military. The WFP said shooting at a clearly-marked U.N. aid convoy was unacceptable and called on all sides to allow the safe passage of humanitarian aid. The Israeli military did not have an immediate comment on the episode. In November, the military struck a car belonging to the charity World Central Kitchen, killing five employees, after claiming that one of the employees had ties to the Oct. 7, 2023 attack that sparked the war in Gaza. The strike highlighted the dangerous work of delivering aid in Gaza, where the war has displaced much of the 2.3 million population and caused widespread hunger. Israeli forces withdraw from a third town in southern Lebanon as part of ceasefire deal BEIRUT The Lebanese army announced Monday that its troops began deploying in Naqoura, southern Lebanon, as the Israeli army withdrew. This comes after Israel handing back two other southern towns, Khiam and Shamaa, since the ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel went into effect over a month ago. The Israeli military did not immediately comment on the development. The deployment coincided with a meeting of the committee overseeing the ceasefire agreement in Ras al-Naqoura, which is home to the headquarters of the U.N. peacekeeping mission. The meeting was attended by U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein, who arrived in Beirut on Monday. Hochstein helped broker the ceasefire that ended the 14-month war. "The Israeli military started (its) withdrawal from Naqoura, most of the western sector and back into Israel proper today, Hochstein told reporters in Beirut following his meeting with Lebanons Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri. The Lebanese army will be the only entity who provides security for the people of south Lebanon, " Hochstein said. After the deployment is completed in Naqoura, specialized units will survey the area to remove unexploded ordnance, the army said, urging residents to avoid the area and follow army instructions. UN envoy for Yemen arrives in Houthi-held capital city UNITED NATIONS The U.N. special envoy for Yemen has arrived in the Houthi rebel-held capital of Sanaa. Hans Grundberg's visit is part of the ongoing efforts to de-escalate the current tensions that have engulfed the region and Yemen, U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Monday. "In addition, his efforts will focus on advancing the peace process. The Iran-backed Houthis have stepped up their missile attacks against Israel, and have been targeting shipping in the Red Sea corridor for over a year attacks they say won't stop until there's a ceasefire in Gaza. Israel has repeatedly bombarded Yemen's ports, oil infrastructure and the airport in Sanaa, some 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) away. Well also be pushing for the release of the arbitrarily detained U.N. personnel and also from other NGOs and civil society, the U.N. spokesman said. The Houthis claim the detainees, most of them held since June, are part of an American-Israeli spy network, an allegation vehemently denied by the U.N., NGO organizations, governments and others. Three Israelis killed by gunmen targeting bus in the occupied West Bank JERUSALEM Israels rescue service said gunmen attacked a bus carrying Israelis in the occupied West Bank, killing at least three people and wounding eight others. The attack occurred Monday in the Palestinian village of Al-Funduq, on one of the main east-west roads crossing the territory. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to settle accounts with the attackers and with everyone who assisted them. Hamas praised the attack in a statement, but did not claim responsibility for it. Violence has surged in the West Bank since the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza began in October 2023. The Palestinian Health Ministry says at least 838 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire in the West Bank since the start of the war in Gaza. Most appear to have been militants killed in battles with Israeli troops, but the dead also include participants in violent protests and civilian bystanders. At least 46 Israelis, including 19 soldiers, have been killed in violent attacks by Palestinian militants, according to the U.N. Close India Lockdown Looms? First Cases Of New Virus Reported After HMPV Grips China | Top Updates Sign up for our free Health Check email to receive exclusive analysis on the week in health Get our free Health Check email Get our free Health Check email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The European Union is monitoring cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) amid an outbreak of the disease in China. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control said cases across Europe were not unusual for this time of year, but would continue to assess the situation. ECDC continues to monitor the situation in collaboration with the Chinese CDC and WHO/EURO to gather additional information, it said. The virus, which causes flu or cold-like symptoms, has seen cases spiking across northern Chinese provinces this winter, particularly among children. Photos and videos of people wearing masks in hospitals in China emerged on social media platforms and local reports compared the scenes to the initial outbreak of Covid . Meanwhile, Indonesia has started monitoring flights from China and Malaysia amid concern over rising HMPV infections across the region. Those travelling to Bali will have to fill out a form three days before their arrival to the island providing a record of passengers health, according to local health authorities. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Pope Francis wrapped up a busy Christmas season on Monday by calling for the faithful to promote a culture of welcome and integration in their communities and reject discrimination. Francis presided over Mass in St. Peters Basilica to mark Epiphany. According to the Bible, the feast marks the day that three wise men guided by a star came to visit the newborn Jesus. Francis said the star, in guiding humanity to God, doesnt discriminate among ethnic, linguistic or national groups and is there for all. We do well to meditate on this today, in a world in which individuals and nations are equipped with ever more powerful means of communication, and yet seem to have become less willing to understand, accept and encounter others in their diversity! he said in his homily. God, he said, calls on Christians to reject anything that discriminates or excludes and discards people. He called instead for promoting a strong culture of welcome, in which the narrow places of fear and denunciation are replaced by open spaces of encounter, integration and sharing of life; safe spaces where everyone can find warmth and shelter. Francis has long preached the Gospel-mandated need to welcome the stranger, applying it to migrants in particular. The Epiphany Mass marked the end of a particularly busy Christmas season for Francis that also coincided with the start of the 2025 Holy Year. The once-ever-quarter-celebration of Christianity is expected to bring more than 30 million pilgrims to Rome over the next 12 months. The 88-year-old pope has a daunting schedule ahead greeting and ministering to them, alongside his other papal duties. And while he is wrapping up the Christmas season with Epiphany, he still has a busy week ahead. He'll deliver his annual foreign policy speech to the Holy Sees diplomatic corps, host a final meeting with President Joe Biden and preside over the baptism of babies in the Sistine Chapel. ___ Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the APs collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content. Get Nadine White's Race Report newsletter for a fresh perspective on the week's news Get our free newsletter from The Independent's Race Correspondent Get our free newsletter from The Independent's Race Correspondent SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy More than 260 weak and hungry Rohingya refugees, mostly women and children, have landed in Indonesia in two boats, officials said Monday. Police and military officers are working with the U.N. refugee agency and the local government in West Pereulak in East Aceh to gather more information about the refugees, who arrived Sunday evening, and keep them safe, East Aceh police chief Nova Suryandaru said. We will follow up their presence by coordinating with the UNHCR for further action, Suryandaru said. More than 300 Rohingya refugees have landed in East Aceh since last February. About 1 million Rohingya, who are predominantly Muslim, are living in camps in Bangladesh after leaving Myanmar. They include about 740,000 who fled a brutal clearance campaign in 2017 by Myanmars security forces, who were accused of committing mass rapes and killings. The Rohingya minority face widespread discrimination in Myanmar and most are denied citizenship. Indonesia has appealed for help from the international community following a sharp rise in the number of Rohingya leaving the overcrowded refugee camps in Bangladesh since last year. Indonesia, like nearby Thailand and Malaysia, is not a signatory to the United Nations 1951 Refugee Convention and is not obligated to accept them. However, the country generally provides temporary shelter to refugees in distress. On Saturday, Malaysian authorities said they turned away two boats carrying nearly 300 Rohingya refugees attempting to enter the country illegally. The Maritime Enforcement Agency reported two more boats were trying to enter after 196 Rohingya landed Friday in the northeastern resort island of Langkawi, where they were detained. ___ Tarigan reported from Jakarta, Indonesia. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A man has been charged over his alleged role in helping former soldier Daniel Khalife after he escaped from prison. Imran Chowdhury, 25, is accused of assisting Khalife, who escaped from HMP Wandsworth in September 2023 by tying himself to the underside of a food delivery truck while he was awaiting trial. Chowdhury, from Chingford in north-east London, was arrested in January 2024 and charged in December with one count of assisting an escaped prisoner. Daniel Khalife after his arrest on a canal towpath in west London ( PA Media ) He is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on Tuesday. No further action was taken against a 25-year-old woman arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender in February. Khalife, who triggered a nationwide manhunt following his escape from prison, admitted escaping at a court in November last year. The 23-year-old was eventually captured by the River Thames in west London on 9 September 2023. Khalife was found guilty of spying for Iran but was cleared of carrying out a bomb hoax at his army barracks. He is currently awaiting sentence. Prosecutors told the ex-soldiers trial he had played a cynical game, claiming he wanted a career as a double agent to help the British intelligence services when in fact he had gathered a very large body of restricted and classified material. Police described him as the ultimate Walter Mitty character that was having a significant impact on the real world. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A man caught in the devastating 7/7 bombings has recalled the harrowing aftermath of the attack. Sudhesh Dahad was on his way to work in financial services on Thursday, July 7, 2005, when Londons deadliest terrorist incident unfolded. Shortly before 8:50 am, he joined other commuters in the front carriage of a packed Piccadilly Line train heading eastbound from Kings Cross. Moments after the train entered the tunnel toward Russell Square, it jolted to a sudden stop. Germaine Lindsay, also known as Abdullah Shaheed Jamal, had detonated a bomb, killing himself and 26 others, and leaving more than 340 injured. Recalling the moment the bomb was detonated, Mr Dahad said: My first thought was that I must be in a nightmare Im not really here. I couldnt really make sense of what had happened other than I was still asleep in my bed and this was a nightmare. And then I realised actually no, Im not in a nightmare this is real. So, I picked myself up the ground and felt my limbs and face. I wasnt sure if I was dead or alive. open image in gallery Emergency services outside Kings Cross following the attack ( Getty Images ) Speaking in a new documentary series about the attacks on BBC Two, Mr Dahad said that after the initial shock, he feared there could be a further attack in the form of a chemical weapon. The lights went out the power was completely off, he said. I kind of intuitively felt instantly that this must be a terrorist attack. I didnt know there were 25 people dead in that carriage around me at that time. I just thought well were alive. So, I thought well if it was a terrorist attack and it hasnt killed anyone then theres more to come. maybe a biological or chemical weapon of some sort. Smoke started drifting down the carriage I think it mustve been the soot dislodged from the wall of the tunnels and I thought maybe this is some kind of toxic gas and I think a lot of people thought the same because people standing near me went to the ground again thinking they might avoid it by staying low. Mr Dahad joined a number of survivors of the attacks to share their stories of the attacks, in which three tubes and one bus were targetted by suicide bombers, killing 52 people and injuring over 770 others. open image in gallery Three tubes and one bus were targetted by suicide bombers, killing 52 people and injuring over 770 others. ( AFP via Getty Images ) Explosions were reported on three tubes within one minute on the morning of July 7. The first occurred on an eastbound Circle Line train seconds after it left the platform at Liverpool Street station. Eight people were killed including suicide bomber Shehzad Tanweer. A westbound Circle Line train at Edgeware Road was then blown up by Mohammad Sidique Khan, killing seven people including himself. Shortly after the tube with Mr Dahad was targeted. Just under an hour later, the number 30 bus was blown up by Hasib Hussain, 18, at Tavistock Square, killing 14 people including himself, and injuring more than 110. The four-part series 7/7: The London Bombings will air from January 5 on BBC Two and stream on iPlayer. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Victims of domestic abuse should have access to paid time off work to help them stay safe, according to a new proposed law. People experiencing domestic abuse would be allowed several days of safe leave to assist them in addressing issues related to the abuse, including finding a place of safety, dealing with health issues and attending police interviews. Labour MP Alex McIntyre will seek to introduce the Domestic Abuse (Safe Leave) Bill to the House of Commons on Tuesday in a bid to enable it to be considered further by MPs. His proposal suggests creating the right to 10 days paid safe leave although this would be subject to consultation. Mr McIntyre has met with organisations in his Gloucester constituency to understand the scale of domestic violence in the area, the work being done to support survivors and what else they would like to see. Better support for survivors in the workplace was among the ideas, including safe leave, according to the MP. open image in gallery The proposal suggests creating the right to 10 days paid safe leave ( PA Wire ) Mr McIntyre told the PA news agency: The Bill proposes a right to paid safe leave for people experiencing domestic abuse to address issues related to that abuse. This could include, for example, finding a place of safety, dealing with health or housing issues, childcare, attending court or police interviews, attending counselling etc. He added: This Labour Government has set an ambitious mission to halve violence against women and girls over the next decade. I fully support this mission and think this Bill would complement that work. Private members bills (PMBs) tabled by backbench MPs face a battle to become law due to a lack of parliamentary time. Mr McIntyre has held talks with ministers about the Governments ongoing work. He said: I know that the Home Secretary (Yvette Cooper) and (Justice Secretary) Shabana Mahmood have placed victims and survivors at the heart of this mission and have spoken with (Home Office minister) Jess Phillips and (justice minister) Alex Davies-Jones about the brilliant work that they are already doing. This Bill is intended to start a conversation about how we can make workplaces a safer place for victims and survivors of domestic abuse and violence, and I will continue to raise this issue on behalf of my constituents. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The founder of British athleisure-wear brand Gymshark has urged the government to take a US-style approach and allow business leaders like to Elon Musk to influence UK policy. At just 32-years-old Ben Francis is one of the UKs youngest entrepreneurial millionaires having started his brand from his parents garage at just 19. Valued at 725 million in the Sunday Times Rich List, Francis is number five on the 40 under 40 list and has said he has a long list of ideas to make Britain more business-friendly. When asked if the UK should adopt a US-style approach in which Donald Trump has included business tycoons such as billionaire Elon Musk into his administration, Mr Francis told The Telegraph: Oh god, yeah, 100 per cent. I mean, I feel like its fairly obvious, isnt it? If the question is, do you think [we should be] bringing in competent business people to support the Government in their policies?, then of course my answer would be yes. Mr Musks involvement with both Trumps election campaign and his influence on his future policy has sparked concern among critics on both sides of the Atlantic. open image in gallery The Tesla boss, who bought social media platform X in 2022, was a key factor in the president elects successful bid to return to the White House. ( AP ) The Tesla boss, who bought social media platform X in 2022, was a key factor in the president elects successful bid to return to the White House with many believing the right-wingers control over public discourse has had too much influence in the political sphere. In recent months, he has also waded in on affairs in British politics, namely when he called the prime minister two-tier Keir during riots last summer, and in more recent days as he criticised the governments handling of grooming gangs. He has been brought into US government by Trump, who has tasked him with cutting government spending. Mr Francis previously sat on Theresa Mays small business council in 2019 during her tenure as prime minister but said operating as a business in Britain is becoming more difficult. Talking about Rachel Reevess Autumn Budget, he said: [It] doesnt change our plans, but it certainly doesnt make it easier. He added: Probably there is a point where it might be the logical solution [to move out to the US]. But I just love the UK. I know that its not in a great place at the moment but I dont think I would leave. open image in gallery Ben Francis, Gymshark founder ( @benfrancis/instagram ) Mr Francis has come a long way from sewing gym gear himself in his parents garage after dropping out of university to pursue his dream. He set up Gymshark in 2012 with his school friend Lewis Morgan at the age of 19 while working as a Pizza Hut delivery driver in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire. Tired of scratchy synthetic materials, he began making his own garments with ultra-soft fabrics after his mother taught him to sew. He then recruited influencers to wear his products to drive up sales a marketing technique now widely adopted. While studying at Aston University, Francis took the bold decision to drop out to run Gymshark full time as the business began to take off. He said he wants the company to become a really iconic British brand akin to Cadbury or Jaguar Land Rover. Though the brand has been trading soley online for most of its existence, the company is now opening up bricks and mortar shops, with a permanent storefronts on Regent Street, in Westfield Stratford and another in Bicester - with plans to open up more locations in London, Manchester, Dubai and New York. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Sir Keir Starmer has responded to attacks from US billionaire and Trump ally Elon Musk over the Labour governments response to grooming gangs in the UK. Pressure had mounted on the prime minister after safeguarding minister Jess Phillips denied requests for the Home Office to lead a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation and grooming in Oldham. The tech billionaire triggered an attack on the government on Thursday, as he suggested Ms Phillips deserves to be in prison. He also appeared to place blame at Sir Keirs door, arguing that rape gangs were allowed to exploit young girls without facing justice during the prime ministers time as director of public prosecutions. Responding to reporter questions, Sir Keir said: Those that are spreading lies and misinformation, as far and as wide as possible theyre not interested in victims, theyre interested in themselves. Since the Tesla boss posted his claims on X, several high profile figures including Tory leader Kemi Badenoch have also spoken out calling for a full inquiry into the sexual abuse. Heres what we know about the why Sir Keir is under fire over grooming gang scandal and whether there will be an inquiry: Why did the uproar start? The criticism began after safeguarding minister Jess Phillips formally denied requests for the Home Office to lead a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation and grooming in Oldham. Ms Phillips said she recognised the strength of feeling for a Home Office-led inquiry, but she told the local council the Government will not intervene. I believe it is for Oldham Council alone to decide to commission an inquiry into child sexual exploitation locally, rather than for the Government to intervene, she said. open image in gallery Mr Musk heavily criticised Jess Phillips (Jordan Pettitt/PA) ( PA Wire ) Instead of the Government leading a probe, Oldham must follow in the footsteps of other towns like Rotherham and Telford and commission its own inquiry into historical abuse of children, Ms Phillips said in a letter to the local council. The last Tory government also rejected a similar request from Oldham council for a public inquiry, saying it is for local authorities to commission local inquiries. Why are people calling for a review? In response to Ms Phillips decision, Mr Musk, a key member of US President-elect Donald Trumps inner circle, said: She deserves to be in prison. The businessman, who owns X, has used the social media site to post or repost about child grooming in the UK more than 40 times over the last 24 hours. He appeared to blame Sir Keir for the scandal and argued that rape gangs were allowed to exploit young girls without facing justice during Sir Keirs time as director of public prosecutions. Mr Musk said: In the UK, serious crimes such as rape require the Crown Prosecution Services approval for the police to charge suspects. Who was the head of the CPS when rape gangs were allowed to exploit young girls without facing justice? Keir Starmer, 2008-2013. open image in gallery Elon Musk (L) and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer (R). (Evan Vucci AP, Leon Neal PA) In a series of posts on his social media site, Mr Musk described the Prime Minister as two-tier Keir, claiming there was no justice for severe, violent crimes but prison for social media posts. Mr Musk also shared a post asking whether King Charles should dissolve parliament and order a general election for the sake and security of Britain. Senior Tories also sought to put pressure on the Government over grooming gangs. Mrs Badenoch said: The time is long overdue for a full national inquiry into the rape gangs scandal. Trials have taken place all over the country in recent years but no one in authority has joined the dots. 2025 must be the year that the victims start to get justice. How has the government responded? Home secretary Yvette Cooper has defended her decision to not launch a national inquiry into child sex abuse. Facing MPs in Commons, she announced that professionals who work with children will face criminal sanctions if they do not report child sexual abuse. The home secretary said the measure was part the governments wider work around child sexual exploitation and abuse, criticising the Conservatives record on the issue. Pressed if Mr Musks comments were unhelpful to the Government, Health Secretary Wes Streeting told ITV News that ministers took child sexual exploitation incredibly seriously. He added: Some of the criticisms that Elon Musk has made, I think are misjudged and certainly misinformed, but were willing to work with Elon Musk, who I think has got a big role to play with his social media platform to help us and other countries to tackle this serious issue. So if he wants to work with us and roll his sleeves up, wed welcome that. open image in gallery Health Secretary Wes Streeting told ITV News that ministers took child sexual exploitation incredibly seriously. ( Rich McCarthy/PA Wire ) Andrew Gwynne, a minister working in Mr Streetings health team, had earlier taken a stronger stance, suggesting Mr Musk should to stick to US politics, where he is set to act as an unelected adviser to the Trump presidency on cutting federal spending. Mr Gwynne told LBC: Elon Musk is an American citizen and perhaps ought to focus on issues on the other side of the Atlantic. After listing the host of investigations which had taken place, the minister added: There comes a point where we dont need more inquiries, and had Elon Musk really paid attention to whats been going on in this country, he might have recognised that there have already been inquiries. Will there be an inquiry? A national inquiry by Professor Alexis Jay concluded in 2022, and probes into Greater Manchester Polices handling of historical child sex abuse cases in Manchester, Oldham and Rochdale have already been carried out. The inquiry looked into abuse by organised groups following multiple convictions of sexual offences against children across the UK between 2010-2014, including in Rotherham, Cornwall, Derbyshire, Rochdale and Bristol. In November last year, Professor Jay said she felt frustrated that none of the probes 20 recommendations had been implemented more than two years after its conclusion. Mr Streeting said the Government was committed to implementing the recommendations of Professor Jays report in full. The Health Secretary also told the PA news agency that ministers were supportive of an inquiry into the Oldham scandal, but signalled it had to be led locally. There may well be, and we think there is a good case for further inquiries into specific places, Oldham being a good and latest example. We would absolutely encourage and work with Oldham in establishing their own inquiries, he said. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Justin Welby is spending his final day as Archbishop of Canterbury as he prepares to step down over failures in handling a Church of England abuse scandal. Dr Welby will officially quit the role at midnight on Monday almost two months after announcing his resignation after a damning report exposed a conspiracy of silence around the abuse. The Makin review found that camp leader John Smyth thought to have been the most prolific serial abuser associated with the Church might have been prosecuted if Dr Welby reported him to police in 2013. Smyth died aged 77 in Cape Town in 2018 while under investigation by Hampshire Police, and so was never brought to justice for the abuse, the review said. He is said to have subjected as many as 130 boys and young men in the UK and Africa to traumatic physical, sexual, psychological and spiritual attacks across five decades in three different countries. open image in gallery Christian camp leader and prolific abuser John Smyth might have been prosecuted if Dr Welby reported him to police in 2013, a damning report found last year ( Channel 4 ) Dr Welby said he had had no idea or suspicion of this abuse before 2013, but acknowledged that the review had found that after its wider exposure that year he had personally failed to ensure the case was energetically investigated. He is said to be spending Monday privately at his London residence, Lambeth Palace, attending a lunchtime Eucharist and later a service of Evensong. It is during the latter that he will lay down his bishops crozier a ceremonial long staff in a symbolic act which marks the official end of his ministry as Archbishop of Canterbury. He has made few public appearances since mid-November, and did not give the traditional Christmas Day sermon from Canterbury Cathedral. While in his initial resignation statement on 12 November he said he was stepping down in sorrow with all victims and survivors of abuse, he had to issue an apology later that month following his final speech in the House of Lords. open image in gallery Dr Welby is said to be spending Monday privately at his London residence, Lambeth Palace, before laying down his ceremonial long staff ( Getty ) On that occasion he was accused of making light of serious safeguarding failures in the Church, with an abuse survivor branding the speech which referenced a 14th-century beheading and prompted laughter from some peers tone deaf. In recent weeks a major charity, The Childrens Society, also rejected a Christmas donation from Dr Welby, saying that accepting it would not be consistent with the principles and values that underpin our work. From Tuesday, most of the official functions normally held by the Archbishop of Canterbury will be delegated to the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell while some will go to the Bishop of London, Dame Sarah Mullally, and the diocesan functions will be carried out by the Bishop of Dover, Rose Hudson-Wilkin. Mr Cottrell has also faced calls to resign over his handling of a separate abuse case but, appearing to reject those calls in recent weeks, he has pledged to do what I can to bring about independent scrutiny of safeguarding in the Church. The process to replace Dr Welby is expected to take months, with an announcement about a new Archbishop of Canterbury possible in autumn. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Winter fuel payments have been stopped for millions of pensioners this winter following Labours drive to boost public finances by means-testing the cold weather benefit. The government had been urged to review its decision affecting 10 million pensioners after the regulator Ofgem announced household energy bills will rise by 150 in October. Sir Keir Starmer faced warnings the double hit will lead to disaster for pensioners on low and modest incomes or living in vulnerable circumstances due to ill health. But the prime minister remained steadfast, keeping the change in place as the deadline for new applications closed on 21 December. Rachel Reeves announces her cost-cutting measures in Commons ( Reuters ) Rachel Reeves revealed the change amongst several cost-cutting measures in July last year, designed to plug the 22bn black hole in public finances which Labour says was concealed by the previous government. In December, The Independent revealed that the extra pressure the measure is putting on the DWP has led to waits of over 100 days to receive the payment for many pensioners. Analysis shows energy bills this winter will be the highest on record for older people who previously received the winter fuel payment, worth up to 300. The winter fuel payment was introduced by Tony Blairs government in 1997, and expanded to all pensioners from 2000. The new change will now mean that only those in receipt of pension credit or other certain benefits will continue to receive them. The payment amount remains unchanged, at 200 for those aged between 66 and 79, and 300 for those over 80. Since announcing the measure, charities and campaigners had urged the government to reconisder. Research from Age UK shows that around 2 million vulnerable pensioners were likely to miss out, while money expert Martin Lewis has also said Labour should rethink the measure. If youve been affected by the change to winter fuel payments heres what you can do: Check if youre eligible for pension credit The first thing anyone affected by the changes to the winter fuel payment should do is check if theyre eligible for pension credit. If you are able to claim this benefit, it will now unlock the winter fuel payment for you. The deadline to receive a backdated winter fuel payment for 2024 has now passed, but those eligible should still apply in good time to secure their entitlement for this year. Research from Age UK shows that around 800,000 pensioners are missing out on pension credit. The charity recommends calling their helpline or using their handy benefits calculator to check their eligibility. To qualify for pension credit, you must be above state pension age currently 66 and on a low income. It will top up your weekly income to either: 218.15 if youre single 332.95 if you have a partner (shared jointly) This works out at 11,343.8 a year if single, or a shared income of 17,313.4 for two. Its crucial those who are eligible for the credit apply for it, as experts describe it as a passport benefit. Alongside the winter fuel payment, claiming pension credit can unlock housing benefit, support with mortgages, a free TV licence and help with NHS dental appointments. This can add up to thousands of pounds in additional support. However, the eligibility is not tapered: if you receive even 50 over the pension credit income, you will not qualify for this additional support. Age UK says there are around one million pensioners in this situation. A spokesperson said: Older people in this group often tell us they really struggle financially; the proposed change will make it even harder for them to afford to stay warm when it gets chilly. Means-testing WFP this winter, with virtually no notice and no compensatory measures to protect poor and vulnerable pensioners, is the wrong policy decision, and one that will potentially jeopardise their health as well as their finances the last thing they or the NHS needs. Other support available if youre not eligible for pension credit: Attendance allowance Attendance allowance is a non-means tested benefit is designed to support pensioners who need daily living help. It offers a minimum of 3,700 a year, rising to 5644.6 depending on the level of support needed. To be eligible for the benefit, the claimant must have needed help or supervision for six consecutive months, even if none has been received. This means you need assistance with daily living, or someone to watch you to avoid danger to yourself. Money guru Martin Lewis recently launched a campaign to raise awareness of the benefit, which he says is going unclaimed by around a million eligible pensioners. Household support fund The household support fund is money given to all local councils to support vulnerable households in their area. Councils are free to allocate the funds however they feel is best. Some have provided cash grants, supermarket vouchers, or energy bill assistance. You will need to visit your local councils website to find out what help may still be available. To find out what support is available, the End Furniture Poverty charity offers a helpful assistance finder tool. Energy provider help Some energy suppliers are offering help for those struggling with their energy bills. These include Scottish Power, EDF, E.ON and Octopus. You will need to contact your energy provider to find out if you are eligible. British Gas also offer a grant of up to 2,000 to customers of any energy provider. You will need to meet specific criteria to be eligible, and can apply on the British Gas Energy Trust website. Charitable grants If you are struggling financially, you may be eligible for certain charitable grants. There are a wide range of grants available depending on your circumstances. However, these grants will typically require you to meet specific criteria and only be able to offer limited funds. Several charitable grants are available for older people, with some having additional criteria such as being disabled or ill and many more. The charity Turn2us has an online tool to search for grants which may be available to you. For the latest benefits and pensions payment dates and cost of living support, visit The Independents regularly updated guide Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A young woman has received a second chance at life after undergoing the UKs first ever liver transplant for advanced bowel cancer. Bianca Perea refused to accept that prolonging her life was the only option when she was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer which had spread to her liver. I dont want to sound kind of ignorant or arrogant or anything like that, but I just didnt feel in my gut that that was going to be it, the 32-year-old trainee lawyer from Manchester said of the moment she heard her poor prognosis. Following the transplant, targeted drug therapy and chemotherapy, Ms Perea now has no remaining signs of cancer in her body. open image in gallery Ms Perea refused to believe there would be no cure to her cancer ( Phil Tragen/The Christie NHS Foundation Trust/PA ) When she first visited her GP in Wigan as a result of constipation and bloating, she was referred to her local hospital, where high levels of blood were discovered in her stool. Ms Perea was 29 when she was told in November 2021 that she had stage four bowel cancer the most severe kind despite the fact she didnt have really bad symptoms at all. After the colonoscopy, a doctor said her prognosis was not good. He said, We are looking at prolonging your life rather than a cure. And I just remember everything slowed down, Ms Perea told PA. Although accepting the diagnosis, Ms Perea refused to accept the outlook was so bleak. When her mother asked about a possible transplant, medics said it would not be a feasible treatment. Ms Perea was referred to Christie NHS Foundation Trusts local treatment centre in December that year, where she underwent 37 rounds of a targeted drug called panitumumab alongside chemotherapy for two and a half years. A strong response to the treatment meant she was able to have an operation to remove the bowel tumour in May 2023 but the tumours in her liver remained and were inoperable. With the cancer in her bowels having been removed, doctors started looking at liver transplants for the liver tumour. After being added to the transplant list in February 2024, Ms Perea found a donor and had the operation last summer at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. open image in gallery Doctors hope the cancer wont return following the liver transplant ( Phil Tragen/The Christie NHS Foundation Trust/PA ) Within four weeks of going under the knife, I was able to drive and walk the family dogs, it was really quite incredible, she said. To go from being told Id only have a short time to live to now being cancer-free is the greatest gift. Ive been given a second chance at life and Im going to grab it with both hands. I am so grateful to the family who agreed to donate their loved ones liver. I do believe this is a cure. Theyre always hesitant to say that, obviously, but I am cancer-free right now. Dr Kalena Marti, Ms Pereas oncologist at the Christie, said: To see that Bianca has had such a positive outcome is wonderful. When we looked at the tumour cells in her liver after it had been removed, they werent active. This is excellent news, and we hope that this means that the cancer wont come back. Thanks to the generosity of organ donors and their loved ones, we can now access liver transplants for some patients, which is fantastic. Dr Ian Rowe, honorary consultant hepatologist at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, said: We are, of course, indebted to the family of the organ donor as is made clear with Biancas case, organ donation saves lives. It is important that people register their decision to donate on the NHS organ donor register and make their decision known to their loved ones. Families will always be consulted on any decisions around organ donation. Ms Perea is looking forward to going on holiday this year and is working on improving her fitness. My liver is doing really well, she said. I get tests on that, and Ive just had my second scan and thats all clear, so its really good. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Nigel Farage has said he is prepared to forego donations in order to defend Reform UKs principles after Elon Musk turned against him but still regards the multibillionaire as a hero. Mr Farage said he had been surprised when the tech entrepreneur, who reports suggested had been in talks to give a large sum to the party, claimed on Sunday he doesnt have what it takes to serve as its leader. Mr Musk did not explain the reasoning behind his intervention, but the Clacton MP suggested it was because of his refusal to endorse far-right figurehead Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. On Monday, Mr Farage said the golden rule that former BNP activists will not be welcomed as members will not be changed, and that if Mr Musk knew the full story of Tommy Robinson, he might have a slightly different view. Im not giving up principles. I do not allow former BNP activists into this party. Thats a golden rule, he said. We want no links with extremism of any kind at all. Its not going to happen under my leadership. Im sorry, but Mr Robinson is not suitable for our party. Hes not somebody that were going to endorse. And if defending that principle means that I have to forego donations or whatever else it may be, well Im sorry but for me, principle comes first. He said Robinson, who has been jailed for contempt of court, puts himself up for martyrdom and on the back of it, theres a list as long as your arm of convictions. Frankly, we have to have the rule of law, Mr Farage said. He is not a hero figure to me. He added: All over America there are prominent Republicans who think Tommy Robinson is a hero because theyve heard Tommy Robinsons side of the story. There is a lot, lot more to it that many in America dont understand. But he said of course he still regarded Mr Musk as a hero for buying Twitter and opening up social media as a place where there is now much more free speech than there was when he bought it. Whatever he might have said about me in the last 24 hours doesnt change my view, Mr Farage said. Asked if he was confident about the partys prospects without a donation from Mr Musk, he said: We will raise the money we need. In a slew of posts on social media platform X, which he owns, Mr Musk had urged Mr Farage to stand aside, after the MP disagreed with his endorsement of Robinson. The Reform UK leader reacted by saying his view on Robinson remained the same, with Mr Musk then writing in a post published minutes after Mr Farages response saying: Free Tommy Robinson now. Elsewhere in the barrage, the Tesla boss accused the Prime Minister of failing to tackle grooming gangs while he was director of public prosecutions, and called safeguarding minister Jess Phillips a witch and a rape genocide apologist. Asked about the comments on Monday, Sir Keir Starmer condemned the poison of the far right that has resulted in Ms Phillips and others receiving threats and being put at risk. He criticised the Conservative Party for failing to call out vitriolic remarks about the minister, and defended his own record on handling child sexual exploitation, saying he had dealt with the problem head on as DPP. Asked about Mr Musks posts to his 210 million followers, after a speech at Epsom Hospital in Surrey, the Prime Minister said: Those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible are not interested in victims, they are interested in themselves. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The UK has not had any discussions with the incoming Trump administration over the crumbling Chagos Islands deal, the defence secretary has admitted, amid growing concerns over the future of the agreement. While the outgoing Biden administration supported the deal, Donald Trumps team is looking for a way to veto it as a result of concerns over possible Chinese interference. The Chagos Islands, part of the British Indian Ocean Territory, are seen as strategically important in southeast Asia as America uses the joint UK-US base on Diego Garcia for ships and long-range bombers. Asked to outline exactly what discussions have been had between ministers and the incoming Trump administration on the future of the Diego Garcia base, John Healey admitted that no talks have yet taken place. open image in gallery John Healey faces questions over the deal at defence questions in the House of Commons ( Parliament TV ) The system in the US ... is very different to ours, the defence secretary told the House of Commons. The administration that is in place at the present is in place until inauguration day on January 20. That will be the point at which we as the UK government starts to pick up direct discussions with the incoming administration. The relationship with the US is our closest security ally. We will work with them to ensure we continue to do that. Mr Trumps national security adviser Mike Waltz has been highly critical of the deal, last year saying: Should the UK cede control of the Chagos to Mauritius, I have no doubt that China will take advantage of the resulting vacuum. Meanwhile, Mr Trumps nominee for secretary of state Marco Rubio described the deal as concerning as it would provide an opportunity for communist China to gain valuable intelligence on our naval support facility in Mauritius. Mr Healeys latest admission comes amid growing concern over the future of the deal after the new Mauritian government rejected Sir Keir Starmers deal over Christmas. The deal, which would cede sovereignty over the islands but lease back the strategically important UK-US military base on Diego Garcia, was negotiated with the previous administration. But after taking power, new PM Navin Ramgoolam said he would not finalise the agreement as it would not produce the benefits the nation could expect. open image in gallery A deal was agreed last year to hand over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius ( DoD/AFP via Getty ) He said the new Mauritian administration has submitted its own suggestions to the UK, which has now responded with its counterproposals. Over Christmas, Mr Ramgoolam said there were still parts of the agreement he did not agree with, while the countrys deputy prime minister said Britain was quibbling over a small amount of money in last-minute talks to save the deal. It came after The Independent revealed that the Mauritian government has ordered an independent review of the agreement, throwing the future of Sir Keirs deal into even greater uncertainty. There is also growing concern over the cost of the controversial deal to the British taxpayer, as the government has refused to reveal how much money has been offered to Mauritius as part of the agreement. However, the prime minister and his foreign secretary David Lammy have insisted they had no choice but to hand over the islands. The government has repeatedly said the deal is a good deal that protects both US and UK national security interests and secures long-term protection of the base at Diego Garcia. Get Nadine White's Race Report newsletter for a fresh perspective on the week's news Get our free newsletter from The Independent's Race Correspondent Get our free newsletter from The Independent's Race Correspondent SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The Bishop of Dover has warned that the millions of pounds being handed to France by the British government to stop migrants crossing the Channel on small boats is creating more death. Rose Hudson-Wilkin, the UKs first black female bishop, spoke to The Independent as she temporarily takes over many of Justin Welbys duties as he steps down as Archbishop of Canterbury on Monday. Her interview comes as she publishes her autobiography, The Girl from Montego Bay, which traces her early beginnings in absolute poverty in Jamaica, her struggles and rise in the Church of England and being the Commons chaplain in the toxic Brexit era. open image in gallery Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin criticises political parties for talking too much about immigration, immigration, immigration ( PA ) She talked about her first-hand experience of the consequences of Brexit and the immigration she sees near the Kent coast. In a forthright conversation, Bishop Hudson-Wilkin did not hold back with her views: Defending the compassionate legacy of Justin Welby and arguing the next Archbishop of Canterbury needs to be like him Defending former speaker John Bercow, arguing he is a good man who was a casualty of Brexit Discussing the shameful way MPs conducted the Brexit debate and the dire consequences of leaving the EU Demands restorative justice for slavery from the UK, but not reparations Speaking in her office in the picturesque medieval Old Palace in Canterbury, Bishop Hudson-Wilkin is angered by the harsh realities faced by those caught up in the immigration crisis not many miles away. In particular, she is highly critical of the UKs attempts to stop the boats by paying hundreds of millions to France. The millions of pounds that were giving to the gendarmerie [French military police] is actually creating more deaths, she said. Im going out to Calais shortly. I was there in April this year, and I saw first hand. When people say Calais is a safe place, it is not safe. No, France is not a safe place for those who are trying to find a place to go to. Why? Because they destroy the tents. Every few days, they go into these areas and they destroy the tents of the refugees. The refugee area that I went into was the BMX camp. There were children in that camp. Now, what is going through your mind when you destroy the tents that are a shelter for those children? Yet thats what we are giving money [for]. She vented her frustration over the tenor of the debate in the West and the way all parties are focusing on immigration, immigration, immigration. open image in gallery Justin Welby will cease to be Archbishop of Canterbury from midnight on Monday ( PA ) I want to see our government, Europe, the West, including America, look at this differently. Instead of saying, We dont want these people, building walls, saying were going to break the business model of the small boats, nonsense rhetoric, I want them to ask why are people leaving their countries of origin? Is it war? Is it famine? Is it climate change? Is it civil unrest? Is it economic? She notes how the language used about slaves has transferred to asylum seekers. This thing that we hear often, oh, theyre just economic migrants, theyre not real asylum seekers. Yeah, I remind the British that they were economic migrants when they went all over the world [with the empire]. For the bishop, the issue is related to the question of reparations demanded by a number of Commonwealth countries from the UK for the slave trade. Under Archbishop Welby, the Church of England has led the way in paying reparations but she has a different perspective. Instead of reparation and the connotations that reparation has, I want to think of it as restorative justice. Thats the terminology I would prefer to use. The damage has been done, the damage of the enslavement of a people, of Black people. You cannot repair the damage, but you can at some point become engaged with the process to ensure that there is restorative justice. People here in this country, white people here in this country, do not know why they think Black people are subnormal. They do not know why they think its OK for Black people to sweep the office, clean the office, but not to sit around the board table and be part of the decision-making process. Her experience in the Church itself highlights a culture of ingrained racism. In her book, she describes in painful detail the process of her selection as the speakers chaplain with the resolute but unexplained opposition of Westminster Abbey leading to the job being split. The title of her autobiography comes from an article at the time that described the white male who got the Abbey job as Oxford-educated and her as the girl from Montego Bay. open image in gallery Former speaker John Bercow became great friends with the bishop ( PA ) It is deep, she says. Its not that somebody wakes up one morning and says, Im going to be racist or Im going to be prejudiced against Black people or pink people or blue people. It is deeply ingrained and they dont even know it. As Bishop of Dover, she has seen the chaos wrought by Brexit and the departure from the EU, with the queues of traffic from the ferry port and sometimes struggling to get through the lines of vehicles to get to a church service. But her most brutal experience was as Commons chaplain during the Brexit referendum and in its aftermath. Bishop Hudson-Wilkin is still convinced that the Brexit debate caused the death of the Labour MP Jo Cox. It was during this time that her friendship with speaker John Bercow became so strong, she says she did not want to move on from parliament while he was still there and leave him alone with his enemies. The accusations about his alleged bullying were partly linked to her appointment, something that clearly angers her. I knew him to be a very kind, caring, compassionate individual, she adds. But she feels little sympathy for the MPs who complained of the sharp end of his tongue in the chamber. The childish and bad behaviour of parliamentarians was at fault. My thing was if you behave like a child, then expect to be treated like a child and to be told off like children. Bishop Hudson-Wilkin would sometimes attend debates because it forced MPs to behave themselves. Since leaving parliament, Mr Bercow has been isolated but the bishop sees him as a casualty of Brexit. It is this approach to defending others that shapes her views on Dr Welby and how his successor needs to be like him despite the reasons for his departure. Our Church leaders must be compassionate, and thats what we had in Justin someone who is compassionate and caring, someone who loves the Lord and wants to talk, wants to represent, to speak truth to power whether power likes it or not, someone who is confident in the gospel. We had that in Justin. I want an archbishop that is not dissimilar in terms of loving the Lord and loving the people that theyre called. Although as a suffragan bishop, she does not have a seat in the Lords, Bishop Hudson-Wilkin defends their place in parliament at a time when some MPs are pushing for the 27 Lords spiritual to be ejected along with hereditary peers. The Lords is a bit of a joke, because you get anybody whos given you some money to sit there who has no idea about what poverty is like. Our bishops in the Lords, they know about that, and they can speak about it. They know their dioceses. I have no problem with them sitting there. Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkins book The Girl from Montego Bay is on sale from 16 January. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Nigel Farage and Lee Anderson are among three Reform MPs accused of profiting from spreading hateful rhetoric after it emerged theyve made thousands of pounds from posting on Elon Musks X. Mr Farage, Mr Anderson and Rupert Lowe MP have each declared thousands in payments from the company in their recent parliamentary register of interests, via billionaire Musks creator revenue programme. The scheme allows premium users with more than 500 verified followers to monetise their accounts on the controversial site, which has grown increasingly toxic since it was taken over by the Tesla tycoon in 2022. More than 10,000 has been paid to the right-wing trio since July last year, with Mr Farage having earned the most so far, according to parliamentary filings. The Clacton-on-Sea MP, who has 2.2 million followers, has made in excess of 5,000 since entering the scheme. A Labour source told The Independent: Weve always known that for every person who spreads hateful rhetoric on X because they want to divide our society, there is another set of grifters who do it just to make money. It looks like these Reform MPs fall in both categories, and no one will be in the least bit surprised. open image in gallery Xs creator revenue sharing programme was launched under Musks leadership in 2023 ( via Reuters ) Carla Denyer, MP for Bristol Central and Green Party co-leader, said the profits mark an unholy alliance between the right wing and Elon Musk. The fact that Reform MPs are profiting financially from posting on Musks X tells us all we need to know about how genuine their motives are, she said. Neither Musk nor Farage have ordinary peoples interests at heart. They dont want to make peoples lives better, and they dont value our democracy. They want to strip away protections for workers to make it easier for them and their super-rich buddies to make money, and dont care what damage they do to our communities in the process. Victoria Collins, Liberal Democrat spokesperson for science, innovation and technology:[Reform MPs] have been happy to whip up a frenzy online, riding on the coattails of Mr Musk himself no matter the cost to communities. And now we discover, to no ones surprise, that theyre lining their pockets with this kind of online behaviour. However, Mr Farage has suggested that Reform MPs are not the only politicians making money from the scheme, though he and his colleagues are the only MPs to have declared payments. He said: Many MPs are on X and have the tick. Whilst their views are tiny compared to ours they will be receiving money; its automatic once you pay for the tick so why are we the only ones declaring? On 16 December, Mr Anderson said he had been paid 107.50 from the corporation. The day after, the Ashfield MP declared he was expected to receive a further 1,612.63. open image in gallery Lee Anderson has been paid over 1,700 from creator revenue ( PA Wire ) He said: I am making a few quid on X and paying 40 per cent income tax which will help pay for public services. He suggested other MPs were quite happy to rip off the taxpayer with their wages and expenses yet at the same time refuse to help thousands of young girls who have been raped by Pakistani rape gangs. They should hang their heads in shame. His fellow Reform MP Mr Lowe declared on 11 December that he had received 1,384.81 from the company. It comes after he registered a 3,259.18 payment from X Corp on 3 December, meaning he has received over 4,600 from the corporation in total. The Great Yarmouth MP said he donates his entire MP salary to local charities and said: This is the most expensive job I have ever had if I was in this to make money, I am going about it in an incredibly stupid way. Mr Musk, who promotes the system as a way for users to get paid to post and earn a living on X, previously claimed that its revenue-sharing programme would reward accuracy over sensationalism. In a recent update, X said it evaluates earnings based on genuine interactions, such as replies, likes, bookmarks and the time Premium users spend viewing your content. However, a former X/Twitter curator, who worked for the organisation for seven years, warned of the dangers of monetising content. Writing for this publication, Marc Burrows said: Unlike traditional media, where editorial standards might temper the most inflammatory content, Xs monetisation strategy actively incentivises division. The more outraged people are, the more they engage. The more they engage, the more the poster earns. Truth, accuracy and adding value to public discourse are secondary concerns. This is about generating heat rather than light. The former curator, who left his post in protest a month before Mr Musk arrived, added: By monetising outrage, X has created a self-perpetuating ecosystem where inflammatory content rises to the top, dragging political discourse ever further toward the extremes. Mr Farage has also received payments from Meta and Google, amounting to 2,793 and 11,116 respectively since last summer. open image in gallery Rupert Lowe, Reform UK MP for Great Yarmouth ( PA Archive ) Meanwhile, Mr Musk has been increasingly vocal on UK politics, with his involvement intensifying in the last week after he launched an attack on Labours handling of the child grooming scandal. The Tesla boss has been a steadfast supporter of Reform UK, having met Mr Farage at Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida in December. However, relations have recently soured after Mr Musk seemingly withdrew his support for the Clacton MP on Sunday over Mr Farages rejection of calls to support jailed far-right activist Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. Mr Musk posted: The Reform Party need a new leader. Farage doesnt have what it takes. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy There is an old Asian proverb which goes along the lines of: He who rides the tiger must beware lest he end up inside. Nigel Farage might be reflecting on that after his spectacular fall-out with the worlds richest man on an otherwise quiet Sunday. Making an ally of X (Twitter) owner Elon Musk with his vast wealth and enormous influence was always going to be too tempting to refuse for a man who, for the first time in his political career, feels like he has a sniff of actually winning power. The power of a giant social media platform and the possibility of $100m in funds seemed to be a surefire way of getting a shortcut to turning British politics on its head again, after doing it once already with Brexit. After all, Musk had done exactly that for Farages friend and political ally Donald Trump in the recent US elections. What could possibly go wrong? open image in gallery Farage pushed back at Musks support for Robinson ( BBC ) Well it turns out that the critics of Musk who suggest he might be an egomaniac governed by vague political instincts and a liking for extremists were pretty much on the money. Even a cursory glance at his increasingly poisonous posts about Keir Starmer and Britain offered early proof of a man who is governed by gut feelings more than rationality when it comes to politics. And the episode with his support for the far-right Tommy Robinson a line which Farage rightly will not cross has led to an extraordinary unravelling of the populist right alliance. But the rapid response by key figures in the US connected to the Trump camp has underlined something. They have now recognised that what has happened to Farage is likely to happen to the soon-to-be 47th president. Farage is set to be a guest of honour at the inauguration on 20 January and is hosting one of the biggest parties in Washington DC a few days before. It is fair to speculate that Musk will not be at the glitzy event supping champagne with the Reform UK leader nor will they be sat together as Trump takes the oath. open image in gallery Happier days for Musk and Farage ( Stuart Mitchell/Reform UK/PA ) It would also be a surprise if Trump were to ditch his long-term political ally, Farage, at the behest of his newer one, Musk, but it could cause some awkward conversations. The issue is the whispers that Trump may already be tiring of the man who helped him win in November and the way Musk seems to turn up at every event, every gathering and pronounce on policy at every turn. There are some who have been predicting a fall-out for quite some time. Not all Maga supporters were happy to have a former progressive Democrat who made a fortune from the net zero push with Tesla cars at the table in the first place. Trump has given him Doge (Department of Government Efficiency) as a thank you toy to play with, but how long will it keep the X boss entertained? Some have noticed difficult body language between the two already. One of the first to go on a rapid attack after Musks broadside against Farage was Raheem Kassam. He is a former Farage aide who has made a name for himself as a hugely influential alternative media figure in the US working with Steve Bannon and trusted by the Farage camp. He was quick to note that Musk had very different views to the ones he is espousing now in support of Tommy Robinson. It is likely that Farage, who has had many setbacks in a long political career, will brush this off. Indeed it helps his credibility to point out that not even Musks money and platform are enough for him to support the far right and Tommy Robinson. open image in gallery Many have noticed a cooling of the friendship between Donald Trump and Musk over the last few weeks ( Getty ) The problem though is that it again underlines the sort of people attracted to Farage. Musk is not the first one to espouse far-right views to ally themselves with the Reform UK leader. Ukip was full of such extremist characters. Many who were joining Reform on Farages magic ticker held such views. Indeed, it is being claimed that since the Tommy Robinson spat many who agree with Musk are leaving Reform but the ticker only goes forwards not backwards so we do not know how many. The greatest issue though is what makes Musk wrong in saying Farage needs replacing. We saw in the election that Reform jumped from a fringe political party to one which took 15 per cent of the vote once Farage returned. The partys contract with the people a manifesto in another form was so threadbare and full of holes that it could not sustain anything real in terms of a serious prospect. For Reform to replace the Tories and maybe form a government the party cannot do it without Farage. But what this does is expose is Reform like other populist parties across the West is a personality-driven project sustained by egos. Once those egos turn on one another there is not much left to fall back on. The same can be said for Maga and Trump. Musks dalliance with right-wing extremism has brought a fracture that could easily be predicted but has happened far sooner than many expected. For Kemi Badenoch and the Conservatives along with the traditional centre right in the West this is an opportunity to reestablish themselves with a less extreme and more substantial offer. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The former head of a national inquiry into child sexual abuse has called for the full implementation of reforms set out in her 2022 report amid calls in Westminster for the government to launch a fresh review. Professor Alexis Jay distanced herself from demands for a new independent probe and urged instead the introduction of measures like a child protection authority which she recommended two years ago. She said: Our mission is not to call for new inquiries but to advocate for the full implementation of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuses IICSA recommendations. A child protection authority is critical to this process. open image in gallery Professor Alexis Jay wants a child protection authority to be established (Dave Higgens/PA) ( PA Archive ) Labour has committed to implementing the recommendations of the IICSAs recommendations, and the government said it was working at pace to deliver the reforms set out in the 2022 review, which found abuse was endemic across society in England and Wales. No child should ever suffer sexual abuse or exploitation and it is paramount we do more to protect vulnerable children which is why we are working at pace across government to drive forward real action to implement the recommendations of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, a spokesman said. Professor Alexis Jay worked for seven years on a comprehensive independent inquiry and continues to work with survivors of these heinous crimes and this Government is committed to working closely with survivors and expert groups like Act on IICSA. Her intervention came as Andy Burnham said he would support a new national inquiry into grooming gangs, but only if the government deemed it necessary to launch one. open image in gallery Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham has defended past inquiries into child sexual exploitation in the region (Joe Giddens/PA) ( PA Wire ) The Greater Manchester mayor pointed to an ongoing review into the scandal in Manchester which he launched after being elected in 2017. Nobody has turned away, we have faced up directly to the failings and, as a result of the review there have been arrests, charges and convictions, Mr Burnham said. But Mr Burnham told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: I wouldnt stand against a further national review if that was deemed necessary. Opponents of recent calls for a new national inquiry, which have come from Elon Musk, Kemi Badenoch and Nigel Farage, have said there has already been one, conducted by Prof Jay, with none of the 20 recommendations having been implemented. Mr Burnham also pointed to Prof Jays move to distance herself from calls to set up a new national inquiry. The IICSA was launched in 2015 and investigated grooming gangs as well as abuse in schools and churches, concluding in 2022 with 20 recommendations to protect children. It looked into abuse by organised groups following multiple convictions of sexual offences against children across the UK between 2010-2014, including in Rotherham, Cornwall, Derbyshire, Rochdale and Bristol and described the sexual abuse of children as an epidemic that leaves tens of thousands of victims in its poisonous wake. Prof Jay had previously led an inquiry into the abuse of an estimated 1,400 children in Rotherham from 1997 to 2013, predominantly by men of Pakistani heritage. In a statement on Sunday, Act on IICSA said: Politicising the issue of sexual violence fails to acknowledge its lifelong impact and hinders the implementation of vital and urgent overhaul to our systems required." Speaking on Monday morning, Mr Burnham said: There is a case for a relentless focus, and I understand when people say things because feelings run very high, understandably so, on the issue. But it is about dealing with it in a relentless way. open image in gallery Keir Starmer is expected to face questions on Monday about Elon Musks attacks on his government over past grooming gang cases ( PA Wire ) There was a public inquiry, and I know the head of that inquiry has said the recommendations she made should have been implemented by the last government and should be implemented now. All I can say from here is, for us, we must complete the Greater Manchester review, police investigations are ongoing, I wouldnt want anything to cut across those, but I wouldnt stand against a further national review if that was deemed necessary. It comes after Kemi Badenoch called for a national inquiry into the UKs rape gangs scandal, after home office minister Jess Phillips denied requests to lead a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham. The Tory leader said a review is long overdue, despite the Conservative Party having rejected a similar request from Oldham council while in power. US billionaire Mr Musk said Ms Phillips deserves to be in prison, following her response to Oldham Council. He also appeared to place blame at the prime ministers door, as he argued that rape gangs were allowed to exploit young girls without facing justice during Sir Keirs time as director of public prosecutions. And Nigel Farages Reform UK has now committed to launching an independent inquiry into grooming gangs if it wins the next general election, piling further pressure on the government to act. Sir Keir is on Monday expected to defend his record over the grooming gangs scandal when he takes questions following a speech on the NHS. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A man has been charged with sending malicious communications to home office minister Jess Phillips just days after criticism from Elon Musk. Devon and Cornwall police confirmed that a man was charged following three reports of malicious communications in a case involving three victims. The revelation comes just hours after Sir Keir Starmer came out fighting on behalf of Ms Phillips, saying the poison of the far right had led to serious threats to the safeguarding minister. His response came after he had delivered a speech on NHS reform in Epsom when journalists pressed the prime minister on the attacks on himself and the home office minister over the Asian grooming gangs scandal. The social media row, spurred on by Elon Musk, broke out after it emerged that Ms Phillips had rejected a national inquiry into what happened. The incidents, first reported by LBC, took place between April 2024 and January 2025. The force confirmed that the incident involving Ms Phillips took place this month, around the time Mr Musk accused her of being a rape genocide apologist. open image in gallery Ms Phillips was targeted by the X supremo (Jordan Pettitt/PA) ( PA Wire ) Sir Keir made an impassioned defence of his safeguarding minister who Mr Musk had described as a witch and supporter of genocidal rape abusers who should go to prison. The prime minister also defended his personal record as director of public prosecutions in bringing a record number of cases on the Asian grooming gangs, before taking aim at social media misinformation. Those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far as wide as possible are not interested in victims, theyre interested in themselves, he said. They are cheerleading Tommy Robinson, a man who went to prison for nearly collapsing a grooming case, a gang grooming case. These people are trying to get some kind of vicarious thrill from street violence, that people like Tommy Robinson promote. Those attacking Jess Phillips, who Im proud to call a colleague and a friend, are not protecting victims. Jess Phillips has done a thousand times more than theyve even dreamt about when it comes to protecting victims of sexual abuse throughout her entire career. Weve seen this play out many times whipping up intimidation and threats of violence, hoping that the media will amplify it. When the poison of the far right leads to serious threats, to Jess Phillips and others, that in my book, means a line has been crossed. I enjoy the cut and thrust of politics. The robust debate that we must have. But thats got to be based on facts and truth. Not on lies. open image in gallery Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer delivers a speech during a visit to the Elective Orthopaedic Centre in Epsom, Surrey (Leon Neal/PA) ( PA Wire ) He also criticised the Tories for appearing to support Musk, and expressed concern at the partys failure to condemn attacks on Ms Phillips. Those who are so desperate for attention that theyre prepared to debase themselves and their country. So this government will get on with the job of protecting victims. Including, victims of sexual abuse. What I wont tolerate is a debate based on lies and politicians jumping on the barn, one simply to get attention. When those politicians were in government for 14 long years. He added: Im very concerned about where the Tory party is going on this, in this country. This isnt about America or Musk, Im talking about our politics. The responsibility they have for condemning it. If youre not prepared to stand up and defend Jess Philips, you need to ask yourself why youre in politics in the first place. A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson said: A Devon man has been charged following three reports of malicious communications. The charges relate to reports of alleged malicious communications being sent between April 2024 and January 2025 involving three victims. U.S. state funeral services for Jimmy Carter unfold in his hometown Xinhua) 11:00, January 06, 2025 HOUSTON, Jan. 5 (Xinhua) -- U.S. state funeral services honoring 39th President Jimmy Carter unfolded on Saturday in his hometown Plains, Georgia, where the statesman passed away at 100 on Dec. 29. Hundreds of mourners lined the streets when Carter's motorcade left for Atlanta, some 260 km away from the capital city of his home state. Flowers were laid at the base of the Carter monument in downtown Plains and rangers rang a farm bell 39 times at his Boyhood Farm when the motorcade stopped by. The mood in the rural town, where Carter spent most of his life, "wasn't one of sorrow or grief. Rather, there was a sense of overwhelming gratitude for all that the peanut farmer-turned-commander in chief accomplished during his century on earth," The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported. "It's amazing what you can cram into a hundred years," grandson Jason Carter, the chair of the Carter Presidential Center's board, said on Saturday afternoon at a ceremony in the non-profit organization, which houses the Carter Presidential Library in Atlanta, after the motorcade arrived. "His spirit fills this place," Jason Carter told the audience, including many Carter Center employees, "You continue the vibrant living legacy of what is my grandfather's life work." During his presidency from 1977 to 1981, Carter signed the Panama Canal Treaties that restores Panama's full jurisdiction over the Panama Canal Zone, starting from 2000, and guarantees its neutrality. He also witnessed the inking of the landmark Camp David Accords, a peace deal between Egypt and Israel in 1978. In December 1978, China and the United States issued the Joint Communique on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between the People's Republic of China and the United States of America. On Jan. 1, 1979, the two countries officially established diplomatic ties. China deeply mourns the passing of Jimmy Carter, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Monday, calling Carter a promoter and decision-maker in the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the United States. After leaving the presidency, Carter and his wife Rosalynn established the non-governmental organization Carter Center, a platform for global humanitarian efforts that helped shape his post-presidential legacy. "President Carter's leadership contributed significantly to international peace and security," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said upon the former president's death. "His legacy as a peacemaker, human rights champion and humanitarian will endure." Carter will lie in repose at the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta through Tuesday. The funeral journey will then continue toward Washington, D.C., where the former president will lie in state in the U.S. Capitol for a day and a half. A state funeral is scheduled for Thursday morning at Washington National Cathedral, where President Joe Biden is expected to deliver a eulogy. Afterwards, Carter will be buried in his hometown next to his wife Rosalynn, who died in 2023 after 77 years of their marriage. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Rebuilding the NHS is the cornerstone of rebuilding Britain, the prime minister said, as he pledged to fight for the health service day and night. Giving a speech at a hospital in Surrey on Monday, Sir Keir Starmer unveiled more detail about his plans for slashing NHS waiting lists, with the aim of slashing the number of people waiting longer than 18 weeks for treatment in England by nearly half a million over the next year. Speaking with rolled up sleeves in front of a raft of frontline NHS workers and health secretary Wes Streeting, the prime minister promised to reform the health service from top to bottom. open image in gallery Sir Keir Starmer addresses the media and frontline NHS workers at a hospital in Surrey ( Millie Cooke ) He said 2025 is about rebuilding Britain and rebuilding our NHS is the cornerstone of that. We will, of course, protect the principles we all cherish that you will work to every day care free at the point of use, treatment according to need, key principles. But to catapult the service into the future, we need an NHS that is reformed from top to bottom, millions of extra appointments signed, sealed and delivered with the plan that we are launching here today: national renewal in action. Sir Keir said the NHS must be hungry for innovation but reiterated his belief that the health service cannot become a national money pit. He said: Working people cant be expected to subsidise the current levels of care with ever-rising taxes. That is the price of ducking reform, and I wont stand for it. I believe in public service. I believe in the NHS. Ill fight for it day and night. Ill never stand for that. Under his plans, Sir Keir said the NHS must deliver convenience for patients, just as people can book holidays and find love online. This plan that were launching today is a comprehensive level of that mindset, an NHS that treats patients more quickly, that is closer to their lives, gives them the level of convenience that they take for granted in nearly every other service they use every day, he said. open image in gallery The prime minister said the NHS must treat patients more quickly ( 2025 Getty Images ) Just think about it every day, just a few swipes of their phone, millions of people buy food or clothes for themselves and their family, they book holidays, they even find love. There is no reason, no good reason, why a public, free-at-the-point-of-use NHS cant deliver that kind of convenience. In fact, it must. The prime minister pledged to put patients at the centre of their treatment and shift more care closer to the towns and cities where they live, something he said will make a massive difference to waiting times. Meanwhile, allowing GPs to communicate directly with specialists to seek advice and diagnose people more quickly will save more than 800,000 unnecessary appointments and referrals every year. Sir Keir told the medics who gathered to hear him speak that no institution is more important to the security of the country than the NHS. He said: Built by that generation eight decades ago now, its the embodiment of British values and humanities fairness, equal respect. The PM also welcomed a new agreement to expand the relationship between the NHS and private healthcare sector in a bid to slash waiting times, saying the approach must be totally unburdened by dogma. Working people will expect nothing less, the PM said. So, today, I welcome a new agreement that will expand the relationship between the NHS and the private healthcare sector. Make the spaces, the facilities and resources of private hospitals more readily available to the NHS. Thats more beds, more operations, more care available to the NHS. Treating patients free at the point of use, targeted at where we need the most. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Elon Musk has suggested that Reform UK needs to replace Nigel Farage with a new leader amid a row between the pair over jailed far-right political activist Tommy Robinson. The Tesla tycoon said Mr Farage, who founded the party and is credited with its recent surge in the polls, does not have what it takes. His call for change comes as a bitter blow after days of Mr Farage fawning over the worlds richest man, describing him as a hero and claiming he makes Reform look cool. open image in gallery Nigel Farage and Party treasurer Nick Candy have met Mr Musk in the US ( PA ) Just hours after Mr Farage was on TV praising Mr Musk, the billionaire took to his social media platform X (Twitter) to declare: The Reform Party needs a new leader. Farage doesnt have what it takes. He then appeared to endorse Rupert Lowe, one of the partys five MPs, as a replacement. I have not met Rupert Lowe, but his statements online that I have read so far make a lot of sense, Mr Musk wrote in response to a post asking whether the Great Yarmouth MP and former Southampton FC chairman should take over the top job. Hitting back, Mr Farage said: Well, this is a surprise! Elon is a remarkable individual but on this I am afraid I disagree. My view remains that Tommy Robinson is not right for Reform and I never sell out my principles. Mr Musk had been expected to hand a multi-million-pound donation to Reform to aid its efforts to win the next general election amid a feud with prime minister Sir Keir Starmer. It is unclear why Mr Musk has withdrawn his support from Mr Farage, who he met at Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago mansion alongside Reform treasurer Nick Candy just weeks ago to discuss the partys ground game and financing. Mr Farage and Mr Candy described their hour-long meeting as great. But the dramatic U-turn comes after Mr Farage refused to join Mr Musks calls to release Robinson from prison. On Friday night, Mr Farage heaped praise on Mr Musk, calling him a hero figure, especially for the youth. open image in gallery Farage distanced himself from Musk over his support for jailed political activist Tommy Robinson ( PA ) But, after Mr Musk on X shared a call to free Tommy Robinson, Mr Farage said: He sees Robinson as one of these people that fought against the grooming gangs. But of course, the truth is Tommy Robinsons in prison not for that, but for contempt of court. Were a political party aiming to win the next general election. Hes not what we need. Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is serving an 18-month prison sentence for contempt of court, which began in October. A Washington source told The Independent Mr Musk was having a tantrum because Nigel pushed back on him over Robinson. He does this constantly here, too, the source added. Pollster Luke Tryl, UK director at More in Common, said: Leave aside everything else, this shows Musk has no handle on UK politics. Absent Farage, Reform would have been a postmark in history post-election and likely failed to win seats. Like him or not, and many dont, he has an ability to connect with people most politicians cant reach. And a former Farage aide and Breitbart editor Raheem Kassam responded to Mr Musk saying you are a f****** moron. Despite distancing himself from Mr Musk over Robinson, Mr Farage bent over backwards on Sunday morning to defend the billionaires incendiary X posts about home office minister Jess Phillips and Sir Keir. Mr Musk suggested Ms Phillips deserves to be in prison for denying requests for the Home Office to lead a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham. He also attacked Sir Keir Starmer, saying the prime minister failed to bring rape gangs to justice when he was director of public prosecutions. Reform UK leader Mr Farage told the BBCs Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg programme that Mr Musk had used very tough terms but that free speech was back on X under his ownership. open image in gallery Health secretary Wes Streeting defended Jess Phillips and Sir Keir Starmer ( PA ) He said that tough things get said by both sides of the debate, adding that Mr Musks ownership of X makes it a place for proper open debate. Mr Farage said: This man happens to be the richest man in the world, but equally, the fact that hes bought Twitter now actually gives us a place where we can have a proper open debate about many things We may find it offensive, but its a good thing, not a bad thing. By contrast, Labours shadow health secretary Wes Streeting said Mr Musks claims are a disgraceful smear considering the Labour ministers efforts to support victims of abuse. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Sir Keir Starmer has accused tech billionaire Elon Musk and right-wing populists of spreading lies about child abuse grooming gangs and warned they have crossed a line. The prime minister came out fighting after a Christmas break during which Mr Musk and others unleashed a torrent of personal abuse against him and his government, including safeguarding minister Jess Phillips. Sir Keir made an impassioned defence of Ms Phillips, who Mr Musk had described as a witch and a supporter of genocidal rape abusers who deserves to be in prison. open image in gallery Keir Starmer delivers a speech during a visit to Surrey (Leon Neal/PA) ( PA Wire ) It comes after figures in Donald Trumps inner circle even pressed the president-elect to impose sanctions on Britain over the child sex grooming scandal. A source told The Independent: The threat of tariffs is nothing compared to the threat of sanctions. During a speech about NHS reforms, the prime minister defended his period as director of public prosecutions in bringing a record number of cases against grooming gangs, before taking aim at social media misinformation. Those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and wide as possible are not interested in victims, theyre interested in themselves, he said. They are cheerleading Tommy Robinson, a man who went to prison for nearly collapsing a grooming case, a gang grooming case. These people are trying to get some kind of vicarious thrill from street violence, that people like Tommy Robinson promote. Those attacking Jess Phillips, who Im proud to call a colleague and a friend, are not protecting victims. Jess Phillips has done a thousand times more than theyve even dreamt about when it comes to protecting victims of sexual abuse throughout her entire career. When the poison of the far right leads to serious threats, to Jess Phillips and others, that in my book, means a line has been crossed. I enjoy the cut and thrust of politics. The robust debate that we must have. But thats got to be based on facts and truth. Not on lies. open image in gallery Elon Musk has used his X platform to attack the prime ministers record (Kirsty Wigglesworth/PA) ( PA Wire ) Mr Starmer also criticised the Tories for appearing to support Mr Musk. Those who are so desperate for attention that theyre prepared to debase themselves and their country. So this government will get on with the job of protecting victims. Including, victims of sexual abuse. What I wont tolerate is a debate based on lies and politicians jumping on the bandwagon simply to get attention. When those politicians were in government for 14 long years. But his comments provoked yet another online tirade from Mr Musk, who tweeted another baseless claim: Starmer was deeply complicit in the mass rapes in exchange for votes. Thats what the inquiry would show. He also called the prime minister utterly despicable. open image in gallery Musk has thrown his weight behind far-right figures including Tommy Robinson ( PA ) Mr Musk then retweeted anti-Starmer posts by Dutch far-right leader Geert Wilders supporting Tommy Robinson and former Labour Europe minister turned hardline Brexiteer Baroness Kate Hoey. Baroness Hoey said: The prime minister has really gone too far this time in his attempts to call anyone who speaks out on grooming gangs far right. Her words were echoed by shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick who said: Starmers government has launched more than 60 reviews since taking office, but wont launch a national inquiry into rape gangs. Why? There is no acceptable excuse. Unlike during the last government, Oldham Council have now requested government support and say they are not best-placed to conduct a review. Previous reviews have looked at specific places and elements of the scandal, but nothing has explored it in totality. Sir Keir avoided saying if he would sue Mr Musk for defamation, and refused to comment on another Musk tweet suggesting his government should be deposed. But he expressed concern at the Tories failure to condemn attacks on Ms Phillips. open image in gallery Sir Keir said the poison of the far right had led to threats against ministers (Leon Neal/PA) ( PA Wire ) Im very concerned about where the Tory party is going on this, in this country, he said. This isnt about America or Musk, Im talking about our politics. The responsibility they have for condemning it. If youre not prepared to stand up and defend Jess Philips, you need to ask yourself why youre in politics in the first place. On his own record tackling grooming gangs, he added: Child sexual exploitation is utterly sickening and for many many years too many victims have been completely let down by perverse ideas about community relations, or by the idea that institutions must be protected above all else. When I was chief prosecutor for five years I tackled that head-on. And thats why I reopened cases that had been closed, I brought the first major prosecution of an Asian grooming gang in Rochdale, I changed the whole prosecution approach because I wanted to challenge the myths and stereotypes that were stopping the victims from being heard. Starmers counterattack was his first time since the summer riots he had seriously addressed the social media campaign against his government being orchestrated by the tech billionaire. The X owner has latched on to the issue of grooming gangs, even though there has already been an inquiry, in what seems to be a right-wing attempt to stir up racial division. Separately, Mr Musk has also openly backed the far-right AfD in Germany and praised Italys right-wing prime minister Giorgia Meloni. He even turned his fire on former Labour prime minister Gordon Brown, retweeting an allegation he had suggested the victims of grooming gangs had made a lifestyle choice. Mr Musk wrote: Gordon Brown sold those little girls for votes. Mr Musks attacks began last summer when he championed those convicted of inciting violence during riots in July, claiming they were political prisoners. The X boss was also accused of spreading misinformation about the murder of girls in Southport which triggered the wave of violence in the Merseyside town and across England, leading to an attempt to set fire to a hotel holding asylum seekers. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A member of Sir Keir Starmers top team has referred herself to the governments independent ethics adviser over her links to the deposed prime minister of Bangladesh. Treasury minister Tulip Siddiq, who is responsible for tackling financial crime, will be investigated by standards watchdog Sir Laurie Magnus amid questions over her aunt Sheikh Hasina, who was removed from power after protests against her rule last year. Questions have been swirling around Ms Siddiq since she was named in a probe launched by the new Bangladeshi governments anti-corruption commission. She is alleged to have helped her aunt siphon off 5.2bn intended to be used building eight large-scale projects including a nuclear power plant. open image in gallery Tulip Siddiq is alleged to have been involved in brokering a 2013 deal with Russia for a nuclear power plant in Bangladesh in which large sums of cash were embezzled ( PA ) She faced fresh scrutiny over the weekend as it emerged she was given a central London flat by a person connected with Ms Hasinas Awami League party, and that she lived in a property in Hampstead, north London, that was given to her sister for free by an ally of her aunts regime. Amid growing pressure on Ms Siddiq to resign, Sir Keir confirmed she had referred herself to the standards advisor, who investigates potential breaches of the ministerial code and can advise the PM on sanctions for those in breach. At a press conference on Monday, Sir Keir said: Tulip Siddiq has acted entirely properly by referring herself to the independent adviser, as she has now done. That is why we brought in the new code, to allow ministers to ask the adviser to establish the facts. Yes, I have confidence in her and that is the process that will now be happening. As well as referring herself to the watchdog, Ms Siddiq will now no longer go on a trip to China this week alongside Rachel Reeves and Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey, but will stay at home to assist the probe. open image in gallery Ms Siddiq was living in a property given to her sister for free by an ally of her aunts regime ( Facebook ) Shadow Home Office minister Matt Vickers said: There are clear questions for his friend and anti-corruption minister Tulip Siddiq to answer about allegations made about her. She must be held to the same standards as other ministers in his government, indications so far show that that may not be the case. It came after The Sunday Times revealed Ms Siddiq had lived in the Hampstead property given to her then-teenage sister Azmina in 2009 by Moin Ghani, a Bangladeshi lawyer who has represented Ms Hasinas government and has been pictured with Ms Hasina. Ms Siddiq is also renting a 2.1m home in East Finchley owned by an executive member of the UK wing of Ms Hasinas Awami League. Ms Hasina, Bangladeshs longest-serving prime minister, is now in India after being ousted in August following weeks of violent anti-government protests. She has been accused by the new Bangladeshi administration of corruption, as well as massacres, killings and crimes against humanity including the deaths of at least 800 protesters. Ms Siddiq is one of several family members alleged to have benefited from the corruption but denies wrongdoing. open image in gallery Sheikh Hasina, the now deposed prime minister of Bangladesh and aunt of Siddiq, pictured during a 2014 visit to London ( PA ) Shadow home secretary Chris Philp said: It is high time for Tulip Siddiq to explain the source of her wealth, and whether any of it comes from the proceeds of her aunts alleged corrupt dealings. He called for Sir Keir to suspend her from her anti-corruption brief until she has answered any outstanding questions about her aunts regime. Bangladeshs anti-corruption commission has launched a probe into Ms Siddiq, her UK-based mother Sheikh Rehana Siddiq, and her aunt Ms Hasina, who ruled the country for more than 15 years. The nuclear plant at the centre of the probe was built by Russian state-backed firm Rosatom, while the deal was signed in the Kremlin a decade ago in a ceremony attended by Ms Siddiq, her aunt and Vladimir Putin. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Sir Keir Starmers tax raid on family farms and his decision to scrap winter fuel payments for millions of pensioners are worse for Labour than Partygate was for the Conservatives, voters think. Three of the prime ministers most controversial decisions since taking office are seen as more toxic than the scandal of lockdown-busting parties in Downing Street during lockdowns, according to a new poll. A majority (51 per cent) believe Sir Keirs winter fuel cuts have been more damaging for Labour than Partygate was for the Tories, according to think tank More in Common. Just 16 per cent said Partygate was worse. open image in gallery Keir Starmer has suffered a historic fall in the polls ( 2025 Getty Images ) More than a third of voters said the family farm tax, dubbed the tractor tax, was more politically harmful to Labour than Partygate, with 24 per cent saying Partygate had a bigger impact. And the PMs decision to rule out compensation to women affected by changes to the state pension age was also seen as more harmful to Labour than Partygate, by a margin of 31 per cent to 22 per cent. The poll, conducted for LBC, also found that a quarter of voters regret backing Sir Keir in Julys general election, when Labour won a landslide Commons majority. The poll is the latest evidence of how the tough decisions being pursued by Labour since coming to power have harmed the partys poll rating. Sir Keir has now suffered a bigger drop in approval ratings at this point in office than any new prime minister since Sir John Major in 1992, with The Independents latest Techne UK tracker poll showing a three-way battle between Labour, the Tories and Reform UK ahead of Mays local elections. open image in gallery Voters believe three of Labours early moves have been more damaging than Partygate was for the Conservatives ( PA Archive ) On Sunday Wes Streeting claimed that voters will thank Labour in the long run for unpopular decisions it has made since coming to power, including the scrapping of winter fuel payments. He said the government had to make decisions that were unpopular in its first six months in power, blaming the massive hole Britain was left in by the Conservatives. But the warning that voters believe those decisions to have been more damaging to Labour than Partygate will set alarm bells ringing in Downing Street. Liz Webster, founder of Save British Farming, told The Independent Sir Keirs family farm tax raid makes Boris Johnson and his Partygate seem minuscule. The scandal of lockdown-busting parties happening in Downing Street was one of the key contributors to Boris Johnsons downfall as prime minister. As well, pollsters repeatedly warned that the saga tarnished the Conservative brand and was one of the main drivers, alongside Liz Trusss disastrous premiership, of voters rejecting the Tories at the general election in July. Since being elected with a landslide majority in July, Sir Keirs government has stripped winter fuel payments of up to 300 for millions of elderly people, introduced inheritance tax changes dubbed a family farm tax, which critics fear will force farmers into selling up, and denied compensation payments to Waspi women. Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced in July that winter fuel payments would be restricted only to those claiming pension credit, in a bid to save the government 1.5bn a year. The government has since admitted the decision will drive an additional 100,000 pensioners into poverty, while many fear thousands of deaths as a result of the cuts. Then, at the Budget in October, Ms Reeves ended inheritance tax exemptions for farms worth more than 1m, although in some cases that threshold could be as high as 3m. The tax change means previously exempt farms will be hit with a 20 per cent levy on farming assets worth more than 1m, with critics saying it will force family farmers to sell up and rip the heart out of Britains countryside. Labour was last month accused of betrayal over its decision not to award compensation to the 3.8m women affected by state pension age changes, despite many front benchers having campaigned for such payments in the past, with work and pensions secretary Liz Kendall promising lessons learned but no cash. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy An experienced skier was killed by an avalanche in western Wyoming on Saturday after he was buried beneath a heavy landslide at the Togwotee Pass in the Teton Mountains, 20 miles east of Grand Teton National Park. The victim of the disaster has been identified by county coroner Brent Blue as nurse Kenneth Goff, 36, described as a skilled mountaineer from Lander in the same state, The Cowboy State Daily reports. Goff was one of a party of four skiers who had ascended to a height of 10,400ft in the backcountry when they were struck by a falling slab of snow. Teton County Search and Rescue (TCSAR) were notified of their distress by an emergency 911 satellite text sent from an Apple iPhone just before midday, which directed its team to the Breccia Cliffs area. The rescuers intially attempted to set out by helicopter, snowmobile and skis to reach the stranded group but adverse weather conditions meant that only the latter method proved viable, with its operatives finally making contact with the stricken party at 3.47pm, according to their subsequent statement. The avalanche partially buried one skier and fully buried another, they reported. The partially buried skier sustained a lower leg injury. The team worked to free the buried skier, later revealed to be Goff, but were not able to save his life. His partially buried companion was freed and treated for their injury before the rescuers were able to deliver them and the other two survivors to a waiting ambulance back at Grand Teton National Park. The body of the deceased was brought back using a sked. Kenny was calm and caring, chronically positive, a climbing partner to many, and a friend to all, said Sarah Martin, Rocky Mountain campus director of the National Outdoor Leadership School, where Goff had served as a climbing instructor. He will be sorely missed. TCSAR said the tragedy serves as an important reminder of how much longer a mission can take when the helicopter is grounded, and is another factor to consider in your backcountry planning should an accident occur. Stressing the vital role played by the satellite text service in its rescue effort, the TCSAR advised the public: For anyone using this relatively new function, please include the nature of your emergency, mechanism of injury, and number of people in your party. Including that info can help first responders efficiently develop solutions to the problems. TCSAR extends its most sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased skier, it concluded. Goffs death is the fifth by avalanche in the United States so far this winter. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A long-time Boeing staffer has spoken out about problematic outsourcing and manufacturing practices that began to become a really big problem for the planemaker. Boeings reputation has been left shaken after a turbulent 2024, which saw an Alaska Airlines 737 Max door plug blow out mid-flight, 33,000 workers go on strike and dozens of whistleblowers speaking out about the quality of parts and manufacturing processes. And just five days into 2025, an Etihad Airways Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner was forced to abort takeoff from Melbourne Airport in Australia due to technical reasons, the airline said. Douglas Dorsey, from Hansville, Washington, worked as a manufacturing engineer at the embattled aerospace company from 1984 before retiring in 2017. The Boeing lifer wrote in a Business Insider essay that he once had blue blood running through my veins. But as Dorsey worked on the Boeing 777 and 787 Dreamliner across the 1990s and 2000s as more manufacturing was outsourced, he said things began to unravel, leading to chaos filtering down the chain of command and substandard work being accepted. open image in gallery Boeing President and CEO Kelly Ortberg was appointed on August 8 by the board of directors ( Bloomberg via Getty Images ) Within his first 10 years at the company what Dorsey fondly recalled as the good old days he said the chain of command was clear. There was no drama with executives, and we had confidence in those in command, he said. But in 1997, Dorsey said that upper management was thrown into disarray upon Boeings merger with McDonnell Douglas, a major American aerospace and defense company before the acquisition. A broad swathe of leadership ranks were filled by McDonnell Douglas veterans not Boeing executives many of whom had backgrounds in finance rather than engineering. It wasnt until working on the Boeing 787 program in the 2000s, Dorsey said, where cracks really began to show in the outsourcing manufacturing tasks to suppliers. I noticed that outsourcing manufacturing tasks to suppliers became a really big problem for Boeing, he said. The Boeing veteran said that at the beginning of each new airplane program, management divided major sections of the aircraft among various subcontractors, suppliers, and risk-sharing partners. To get planes in the sky more quickly, Boeing would have the risk-sharing partners deliver complete aircraft sections to the final assembly site, Dorsey said. A suite of new executives and juggling the management of contractors led to more stilted communications and, subsequently, had a negative impact on production quality. open image in gallery Section of a a Boeing 737 Max where a door plug fell while Alaska Airlines Flight 128 in Janaury 2024 ( National Transportation Safety Board ) When I worked on the shop floor, I saw the negative impacts of outsourcing to suppliers, such as slower production and delivering incomplete parts, he said. I spent much of my time on the program trying to accommodate parts that had a non-conformance tag on them and had to be reworked and installed into the build. I wondered what was going on and why we were accepting substandard, incomplete work. Boeing executives failed to take note when employees working on the ground flagged problems and made suggestions about improving processes, Dorsey claimed. As an engineer, I wasnt privy to the decisions going on in the upper chambers of management, but I could see the chaos filtering down, he said. It felt like the company wasnt listening to its mechanics about how to improve processes. The 787 was ultimately delayed by three years, embarking on its first commercial flight in September 2011. Despite his criticism, Kelly believes that CEO KellyOrtberg, who was appointed in August, may be able to steady the ship while helping Boeing overcome its PR problem. I see these actions as baby steps in the right direction. Kelly Ortberg, Boeings CEO, is trying to steer the company on a new course, but I think its going to take a long time, he said. In response to his scathing critique, a Boeing spokesperson shared remarks made by Ortberg in October 2024 with Business Insider. At the time, Ortberg said: Much has been written about how we got to where we are, but most also recognize that Boeing was once a benchmark for what good culture looks like. And I believe we can return to that legacy. I know culture change starts at the top. Our leaders, from me on down, need to be closely integrated with our business and the people who are doing the design and production of our products. We need to be on the factory floors, in the back shops, and in our engineering labs. We need to know whats going on, not only with our products but with our people. The Independent has contacted Boeing for more information. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A California teacher, who was six months pregnant, slipped and tragically fell to her death while on a hiking trip in Greece just before Christmas. Clara Thomann, 33, a science teacher at Dos Pueblos High School in Goleta, was trekking near the Preveli Monastery on the Greek Island of Crete about 12 p.m. on December 23 when she plummeted 164 feet down a gorge, according to multiple local media reports. After her partner, Elliot Finn, called for help at approximately 2 p.m., 21 firefighters and 10 firefighting vehicles were dispatched along with additional, specialized crews to rescue the woman in the inaccessible spot. Rescuers managed to reach Thomann and administered first aid before she was transported to a safe location and picked up by emergency services. Thomann was rushed to Rethymno Hospital while she was still conscious, according to the Neakriti news agency. Due to the serious injuries sustained, she was later transferred to the Chania General Hospitals intensive care unit. open image in gallery Thomann, 33, was six months pregnant when she plummettd 164ft down a gorge ( LinkedIn ) She suffered multiple fractures to her skull, chest and leg. Her unborn child, who Finn said was due to be called Theodoro, also died during the fall, the family confirmed in a statement on Caring Bridge. Thomann was pronounced dead on December 29. The injuries Clara sustained are insurmountable and she was declared brain dead, her family said. Thomanns loved ones respected her wishes as a registered organ donor and her heart, liver, and pancreas have been accepted for donation, the family said in the statement. Chania General Hospital confirmed to the Greek Reporter that the patients organs were donated for transplants in Athens and Heraklion. Thomanns family flew out to Crete to remember the teachers life. Weve been yowling and sobbing on the phone with friends and family, laughing and ordering the entire menus of restaurants here in Chania, and thinking about all the lessons Clara taught us, they said. In a separate post on Caring Bridge, her partner Finn said: Weve been celebrating Clari, hiking to beaches and collecting shells, rocks, and more memories. Thanks so much for all the love and support. open image in gallery Clara Thomann was trekking near the Preveli Monastery on the Greek Island of Crete when she slipped and feel last month ( Getty Images ) Thomanns remains were transported to Athens on New Years Day and cremated on January 3, her family said. They added tha Thomanns ashes will be spread throughout Greece and Turkey at sites she wished to visit with Finn. Messages have been pouring in from loved ones and the local community, remembering the mark she left on her students. Clara was so supportive of our bilingual students, and I just loved working with her. She will be dearly missed, one person, who appears to be a colleague at her school, wrote in memoriam. Ms. Thomann was one of my daughters favorite teacher [sic] at D.P. We are so very sorry for your losses, a parent of one of her students wrote. We send you our thoughts and prayers. Clara was an amazing, fun, beautiful person. She tutored our son all the way through Covid remote learning, a third person added. The Dos Pueblos High School thanked those in the local community for their thoughts as they come to terms with Thomanns loss. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy An Arizona pastor has been indicted after allegedly using a secret camera to record women in the bathroom of his church. Arturo Laguna, a faith leader at the Casa de Adoracion in Phoenix was taken into custody on November 6. He was accused of installing the recording device in the bathroom in October. A grand jury indicted him on the charges this month and he is scheduled to return to court this week. According to a police report, obtained by Fox 10, the camera was found by a woman after it fell out of a dryer in the bathroom where she was changing her babys diaper. Detectives later obtained a screenshot showing Laguna fixing the camera in the bathroom. He later admitted to installing the device in October. During a search of the cameras SD card, officers found four short videos of adult females using the bathroom, Fox 10 reported. open image in gallery Arturo Laguna was arrested and charged with voyeurism in November, after a secret camera was found in the bathroom of his Arizona church. He was indicted this month in connection to the case ( Phoenix Police ) Laguna has been charged with multiple counts of voyeurism, a felony in Arizona. The charges stem from invading someones privacy by recording or photographing without their permission for sexual stimulation. Sentences can stretch up to a couple of years in prison. Laguna leads a largely immigrant church of about 100 followers in Phoenix and previously gave an interview to the Associated Press in the run-up to the presidential cycle. The interview in which he discussed the impact of the Latino vote on the state, was conducted in October. Laguna remains in custody ahead of his next court date, which is scheduled for January 8. The Independent has contacted Phoenix police for more information on the case. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A 12-year-old boy in Georgia suffered second-degree burns and several teenagers are facing serious charges after they allegedly dumped scalding hot water over his face during a sleepover. The three boys, ages 12-15, are accused of injuring their friend during a prank gone wrong at a home in Tifton County, according to police. Tiffany West, the victims mother, told local news outlet WALB10 that the incident happened overnight during a sleepover at a neighbors apartment. She said her son was still sleeping when the boys, who were reportedly up playing video games, allegedly poured the hot water on his face. He was transported to the burn center in Augusta. He had to have surgery, West told the outlet, adding her son is home recovering now, but that it will take him 12 to 14 days to heal. West is keeping some details of the incident private, including her sons name and when exactly the sleepover was held. But she shared with WALB how she felt when she found out about the alleged prank and the burns her son had suffered. I mean, I really cant describe it now, West said. In that moment I was just mad, hurt, in shock. Everything, I was seeing red. I was just trying to hurry up and get him some help. The boys family is still in shock over what happened. You got to be in shock to know your friends are capable of doing this to you, the boys aunt, Nachelle Austille, told WALB. Like somebody you trusted. Its just horrible. He never thought something like this would happen to him. She added that her nephews parents have been out of work to take care of him and have a long road ahead of them. My brother and Tiffany have been out of work since this happened with all the traveling, she explained. She [Tiffany] is still gonna be out of work to take care of him while he is recovering. She needs to be here for him. Mentally, he is gonna have to get counseling to be able to trust people again, the aunt said about her nephew, adding that he has been quiet about what happened. He just dont have no emotions about it, Austille said. Hes numb. Hes numb about it. Police said three minors were charged in the incident and were released to their families, WALB reported. Its unclear what the charges are. The boys are awaiting their first hearing, which is expected to take place next month. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Youtuber and rapper Corey Pritchett Jr., also known as CoreySSG to fans online, has reportedly fled to Qatar after receiving aggravated kidnapping charges against two women in Texas, say officials. Pritchett, 26, who had been residing in Katy, allegedly threatened two women at gunpoint, held them against their will, and abandoned them in the middle of the night on a Texas Interstate highway on November 24, according to a Harris County criminal complaint seen by The Independent. A warrant was issued for his arrest December 26 following charges for the 1st-degree felony offense of aggravated kidnapping, according to the complaint. But according to the FBI, the Youtuber fled to Qatar on a one-way ticket on December 9. It was only when authorities discovered the Youtubers TikTok and Instagram that they learned of his intentions to leave the U.S. to start a new life in Dubai and upon attempts to contact him, his phone was found to no longer [be] in service. According to the complaint, the women feared for their lives after Pritchett violently threatened them stating Im gonna **** and then kill yall. In a bid to defend his actions to followers online, the 26-year-old posted the following statement: Let the show begin (television emoji) #HoustonTx Let me show you how to take monsters down the #SMOOTH WAY ! You see it say[s] ACCUSED right (eyes emoji). Dont worry lol Im finna [gonna] give the Details on here & in the Court of Law. They gone REGRET ******* with me like Im just some goofy or some (laughing and clapping hands emoji). Oh, and I got the BEST LAWYER IN HOUSTON we on they ***. open image in gallery Pritchett rose to fame on YouTube after posting a series of videos about relationships and family with his now ex-wife, Carmen Pritchett ( Instagram / @coreypritchettjr___ ) One woman stated she met Pritchett two days before the incident after they exchanged numbers and agreed to hang out with the other woman and a second man on November 23. But after spending most of the day together, things took a sinister turn when the group headed out to go bowling at Bowlero Houston that evening. The complainants noticed that the defendant and his friends began to act suspicious[ly] by constantly looking around and [quickly] learned that they had an issue with another group that was at the bowling alley. Later that night, the defendant offered the woman a lift back to one of their apartments just a short distance away. But Pritchett reportedly showed a complete change in behavior and told the women he believe[d] someone [was] after him as he had been accused of setting someones car on fire, stated the complaint. This is when the 26-year-old began driving in the opposite direction to the apartment and raced towards San Antonio on the I-10 in Harris County. Despite efforts to inform him that he was driving in the wrong direction, the accused grew more erratic and began frantically driving at a high rate of speed, stated records. The women observed him making several phone calls to unknown people and informed them he was on his way. Suddenly, Pritchett reportedly brandished a gold-colored handgun out at the cars sunroof before making a call to an unknown woman saved as Future Wife on his phone and began asking her whether he should kidnap the women to which she agreed, stated the complaint. Both defendants stated the defendant then asked the female caller if he had the perfect opportunity and was driving in the middle of nowhere and no one could hear them scream (the women) and no one could ever find them, [asking] should he just go ahead and do it? Both complainants stated the unknown female [who was not visible in the video call] responded with a yes. This is when both women said they knew Pritchett was going to take them into the middle of nowhere and kill them, wrote the complaint. A frenzied Pritchett then reportedly snatched the womens phones from them, fired his gun 4-5 times out of the car window, and threatened one of the women with the firearm when she asked to move beside the other woman. Eventually, Pritchett turned around and got back on the I-10 towards Houston, where he pulled over on the shoulder and ordered them out of his car stating This is your only opportunity, the complaint added. He then made a dash leaving them both stranded on the highway at around 1:18 a.m. records stated. After an hour of flagging down drivers and walking along the highway, a driver eventually stopped and allowed them to call 9-1-1 where Waller County deputies responded. Police were later able to corroborate the times and the rate of speed with screenshots taken from a location tracking app on one of the womens phones. The accused could face arrest in Qatar and subsequent extradition to the U.S. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A nurse at a hospital in Virginia has been charged in connection with an incident that left a premature baby suffering from mysterious fractures though investigators suspect multiple babies have experienced similar abuse. Erin Elizabeth Ann Strotman, 26, of Chesterfield County, Virginia, a former nurse at Henrico Doctors Hospitals Neonatal Intensive Care Unit was charged with malicious wounding and felony child abuse Friday, according to a Henrico County police press release and booking records. The shocking arrest came on the back of a wider year-long investigation that discovered multiple infants who suffered similar fractures, the Henrico Doctors Hospital said Friday. Henrico County Police said they were re-examining multiple cases from 2023 and 2024 suggesting that several babies suffered unexplained fractures, as per the press release. At least seven babies are believed to have been harmed, reported The Washington Post . open image in gallery Erin Elizabeth Ann Strotman, 26, of Chesterfield County, Virginia, (pictured) has received malicious wounding and child abuse charges after one infant suffered fractures in November 2024 ( Henrico County Police Division ) Strotman became a registered nurse in May 2019, according to the Virginia Department of Health Professions but it is unclear when she began working at the Henrico hospital. Henrico Police Division refused to confirm how many babies had suffered the ambiguous fractures to The Independent. Families of at least three of the babies were reported to have attended Strotmans arraignment Friday one of them was father to two twin boys, Dominique Hackey. His sons were born at 28 weeks and endured nearly three months inside the NICU in 2023, reports The Washington Post. Speaking with the newspaper, Hackey said that in the past he and his wife went through two miscarriages and were later faced with watching their child, Noah, in a NICU. Noah had been making a strong recovery when a nurse delivered the dreadful news in September 2023 that he had suffered a fractured leg for reasons that remained unclear. It was Hackeys mother, a former NICU nurse, who prompted the investigation which has been on and off for a year after reporting the incident to Child Protective Services, said The Post. It was a very confusing time because you bring one of my babies back to life, then you abuse my other baby. How am I supposed to feel? Hackey said. Investigators revealed they had scoured hours of video footage from inside the NICU after it was provided to them by the hospital, stated the release. In March 2024, Hackey said CPS informed him that his son was one of four babies to be injured at the Henrico Doctors Hospital. Last month, he discovered that three more babies had reportedly been harmed. open image in gallery Police officials refused to state how many babies suffered fractures while in the Virginia NICU (pictured) ( Google Maps ) Then Friday, in the courthouse, he learned that a baby had been abused only four days after his son Noah. One couple also informed him that their child had suffered 12 fractures news that left him in tears, said The Post. Twelve fractures on a baby? I couldnt even fathom it, the father told the outlet. The Independent contacted Hackey for comment. Strotman is currently being held without bond in Henrico County Regional Jail West, according to booking records. Her next court appearance is scheduled for March 24. As of Monday, police said the investigation is ongoing. At this time, detectives continue to re-examine all evidence in the case to determine and further criminal violations, said an email statement from Henrico County Police Division. Police urged anyone with any further information about the incident to contact Henrico Police Det. M. Lynch at police@henrico.gov or submit tips anonymously via Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. On Friday, Henrico Doctors Hospital spoke on Strotmans charges, stating: We are both shocked and saddened by this development in the investigation and are focused on continuing to care for our patients and providing support to our colleagues who have been deeply and personally impacted by this investigation. The Independent contacted Henrico Doctors Hospital for further comment. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Just days after a suspect caused terror in New Orleans with a truck attack and placing bombs along the street, a man has been arrested for making a bomb threat in the same neighborhood. On Saturday, employees at a store on Royal Street near Canal Street in the French Quarter - about a block from the New Years Day terror scene - saw a man stealing items, according to police and reported by NOLA.com. As employees approached the suspect, identified as Mark Ball, 62, he told them he had a bomb in his back, according to police. The store was evacuated and police did a search. No explosive devices were found. Ball was arrested and booked into jail on charges of theft and communicating false arson information, according to the report. A vigil is held near where 14 were killed in New Orleans French Quarter during a terror attack on New Years Day. A man was arrested for allegedly making a bomb threat in the same neighborhood on Saturday ( EPA ) The arrest comes as New Orleans and the French Quarter are on high alert after Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, killed 14 along Bourbon Street by mowing them down with a rented truck. Jabbar had pledged support to ISIS and drove with an ISIS flag attached to the back of his truck. Another 35 people were injured in the rampage. Police also said Jabbar had planted explosive devices near the French Quarter that he planned to explode using a detonator. However, he did not trigger the devices and police safely disarmed them after the attack. City officials in New Orleans are now facing criticism about their safety plan for the popular hot spot on New Years Eve. The city had removed barriers that prevent cars on Bourbon Street and was in the process of replacing them ahead of next months Super Bowl. While police and planners have faced criticism, they have said that Jabbar was hell-bent on causing destruction in the Louisiana city. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The man who drove a truck into a crowd of people in New Orleans on New Year's Day, killing 14, had previously scouted the French Quarter and recorded video with his Meta smart glasses, the FBI said. On October 31, Shamsud-Din Jabbar recorded video with the glasses as he cycled through the French Quarter and plotted the attack, said Lyonel Myrthil, FBI special agent in charge of the New Orleans field office. Jabbar also wore the glasses, which are capable of livestreaming, during the attack, but did not activate them. Investigators recovered the glasses from Jabbars body at the scene. The U.S. Army veteran served in information technology roles in the military, and later at the prominent professional services firms Deloitte and Ernst & Young. open image in gallery In October 2024, Jabbar recorded himself looking into a mirror at the home he rented to test the ability of his Meta glasses to record. ( FBI ) A spokesperson for Meta, the parent company of Facebook, declined to comment. What are Meta glasses? Meta glasses, made in partnership with Ray-Ban, are frames with a built-in camera, speakers and artificial intelligence that can be controlled with your voice, buttons and some simple gestures. Some functions, such as listening to music or interacting with Meta's AI assistant, require the device to be either paired with a phone or able to access the internet. The wearable does not have a display built into the lens, unlike some past industry attempts at building augmented-reality smart glasses. However, Meta has said it is working on a pair of glasses that will give users a fully holographic experience. One of the glasses' main selling points is the ability to capture images and video using the onboard camera, then upload those files to Instagram or Facebook. You can also livestream, but only to Meta's compatible social platforms. open image in gallery Mark Zuckerberg wears a pair of Orion AR glasses during the Meta Connect conference September 25, 2024 ( AP ) You can also use the glasses to make audio and video calls, message people or listen to music. The camera also allows Meta's AI assistant to see what youre seeing, allowing it to translate text into multiple languages (spoken back to you, or shown on a paired phone app), and answer simple questions, such as searching the nearest landmark to your location. The glasses are largely a hands-free experience so you will be talking to your device and it will reply. open image in gallery ( via REUTERS ) The glasses currently cannot perform complex tasks that other digital assistants might be able to, like booking you a reservation at a restaurant or giving you turn-by-turn directions while you're on the move. And there's no display in the lens, so there isn't a viewfinder for framing photos or video. There are also visual indicators built into the system that allow bystanders to know when you're shooting video or taking photos. This LED privacy indicator stays on while you use the camera functions. According to Meta, you can't disable this light to be more discreet in your actions. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Yolanda Saldivar, who is serving a life sentence for the 1995 murder of pop star Selena, is seeking parole after three decades in prison, as fellow inmates claim the woman has a bounty on her head for slaying the Queen of Tejano Music. Saldivar was hit with a life sentence on charges of first-degree murder in October 1995 for fatally shooting Selena Quintanilla-Perez with a revolver in a Corpus Christi, Texas, motel earlier that year. This marks the first time Saldivar is up for parole. A hearing about her status is set for March 30, according to records from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Saldivar, a nurse and the founder and president of the Selena fan club, of shooting Quintanilla-Perez after the musician accused her of embezzling tens of thousands of dollars. Saldivar maintains the shooting was an accident, and pleaded not guilty during her high-profile trial, which was moved to Houston given the public attention. When police arrested Saldivar, they found her in a parking lot threatening suicide, and said she had the gun to kill herself, not Selena. open image in gallery Yolanda Saldivar was convicted in 1995 of fatally shooting Tejano music star Selena ( Texas Department of Criminal Justice ) I was convicted by public opinion even before my trial started, Saldivar told a Peacock documentary last year. Fellow inmates who served with Saldivar said that her crimes have put a target on her back inside of prison. Everyone knows who Yolanda Saldivar is, Marisol Lopez, who served time with the woman from 2017 to 2022, told The New York Post last month. Theres a bounty on her head, like everyone wants a piece of her. The guards keep her away from everyone else, because shes hated so much. If she were out [in general population], someone would try to take her down. Everyone was always like, Let me have five minutes with that b****, another former inmate told the paper. Everyone wanted to get justice for Selena. Theres a target on her back. open image in gallery The 1995 murder shocked fans and came as Selena was beginning to find crossover success ( Getty Images ) Members of Selenas family have also described Saldivar facing threats in prison. The killing took place just as Quintanilla-Perez was gaining popularity in the English-speaking mainstream market for her Tejano music, mixing American pop and Mexican folk styles. The relationship between Saldivar and Selena has been the subject of recent documentaries, including this years Oxygen True Crime series Selena & Yolanda: The Secrets Between Them. In the documentary, Saldivar claimed Selena persuaded her against killing herself, only for the gun to go off anyway while she was hysterical. Selena, when she came into the [hotel] room, she kept trying to put guilt in me for not continuing with her, and how everything was going to crumble, Saldivar said in the series. My emotions were running so high, and I was hurting. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Israel and Hamas once again appear to be inching toward a ceasefire that could wind down the 15-month war in Gaza and bring home dozens of Israelis held hostage there. Both Israel and Hamas are under pressure from outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump to reach a deal before the Jan. 20 inauguration. But the sides have come close before, only to have talks collapse over various disagreements. The latest round of negotiations has bogged down over the names of hostages to be released in a first phase, according to Israeli, Egyptian and Hamas officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were discussing ongoing negotiations. Israel wants assurances that the hostages are alive, while Hamas says that after months of heavy fighting, it isn't sure who is alive or dead. Other hurdles remain. The first phase, expected to last for six to eight weeks, would also include a halt in fighting, a release of Palestinian prisoners and a surge in aid to the besieged Gaza Strip, according to the officials. The last phase would include the release of any remaining hostages, an end to the war, and talks on reconstruction and who will govern Gaza going forward. If we dont get it across the finish line in the next two weeks, Im confident that it will get to completion at some point, hopefully sooner rather than later, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in Seoul on Monday. Heres a closer look at the key issues holding up a deal: The release of hostages from Gaza During its Oct. 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel, Hamas and other groups killed some 1,200 people and took about 250 hostages into Gaza. A truce in November 2023 freed more than 100 hostages, while others have been rescued or their remains have been recovered over the past year. Israel says about 100 hostages remain in Gaza at least a third of whom it believes were killed during the Oct. 7 attack or died in captivity. The first batch of hostages to be released is expected to be made up mostly of women, older people and people with medical conditions, according to the Israeli, Egyptian and Hamas officials. On Monday, Hamas released a list of 34 names of hostages it said were slated for release. An Egyptian official confirmed the list had been the focus of recent discussions. But Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said the names were from a list Israel had submitted months ago. As of now, Israel has not received any confirmation or comment by Hamas regarding the status of the hostages appearing on the list, it said. An Israeli official said the current impasse was due to Hamas' refusal to provide information on the conditions of the hostages, while another official said the departure of the head of the Mossad intelligence agency for negotiations in Qatar was on hold. A Hamas official, meanwhile, said that no one knows the conditions of all of the hostages. Hamas officials have said that due to the war, they cannot provide a full accounting until there is a truce. Since the war began, over 45,800 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, according to local health authorities, who say women and children make up more than half of those killed. They do not say how many of the dead were militants. Pausing the war or ending it? Families of hostages reacted angrily to reports of the phased approach, saying the government should instead be pursuing a deal that releases all the captives at once. They say time is running out to bring people home safely. This morning, I and everyone in Israel woke up and discovered that the state of Israel has put together a Schindler's List 34 people who will be able to hug their families again, and 66 others whose fate will be sealed, said Yotam Cohen, whose brother Nimrod, an Israeli soldier held hostage, did not appear on the published list. Netanyahu has said he supports a partial deal that pauses the war, but he has rejected Hamas' demands for a full Israeli withdrawal that would end the war. Netanyahu has vowed to continue fighting until he achieves total victory including the destruction of Hamas' military capabilities. Israel has inflicted heavy damage on Hamas. But the group continues to stage attacks in Gaza and to fire rockets into Israel. That could portend an open-ended war that could drag on for months or years. The Hostages Forum, a grassroots group representing many hostage families, said it was time for a comprehensive deal. We know more than half are still alive and need immediate rehabilitation, while those who were murdered must be returned for proper burial, it said. We have no more time to waste. A hostage ceasefire agreement must be sealed now! The release of Palestinian prisoners in Israel As part of the deal, Israel is expected to free hundreds of imprisoned Palestinians, including dozens who were convicted in bloody attacks. Israel has a history of large-scale prisoner releases, and hundreds were freed in the November 2023 deal. But the sides have disagreed over the exact number and names of the prisoners to be freed. Hamas wants high-profile prisoners included. Israeli officials have ruled out the release of Marwan Barghouti, who tops Hamas' wish list. Netanyahu's governing coalition includes hardliners who oppose such releases, with some even pledging to quit the government if too many concessions are made. They point to a 2011 prisoner release that included the former Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, a mastermind of the Oct. 7 attacks who was killed by Israel in October. The return of Palestinians to their homes in Gaza The war has displaced an estimated 90% of Gazas 2.3 million people, according to U.N. estimates, with the hard-hit northern sector of the territory largely emptied of its prewar population. During the first phase of the developing deal, Israel is expected to withdraw troops from Palestinian population centers and allow some of the displaced to return home. But the extent of the pullback and the number of people allowed to return must still be worked out, the officials say. ___ Magdy reported from Cairo. AP correspondents Melanie Lidman in Jerusalem, Abby Sewell in Beirut and Matthew Lee in Washington, contributed reporting. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau resigned as leader of the Liberal Party on Monday, after facing immense pressure to step down from members of his own party since his deputy prime minister resigned over concerns about Donald Trumps tariffs. Facing low approval ratings in part due to the cost of living crisis, signs were mounting that Canadians had lost faith in the Liberal Party, which Trudeau has led as prime minister since 2015. But internal confidence plummeted in mid-December, when Chrystia Freeland, the deputy prime minister and head of finance, unexpectedly resigned citing disagreements over the handling of Trumps proposed 25 percent tariffs on the country an issue that could damage the economy. open image in gallery Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau finally bowed to pressure from members of his own party ( AFP via Getty Images ) In the following weeks, dozens of Liberal MPs called on Trudeau to step down. In December, a majority of Liberal MPs in the province of Ontario agreed, on a call, that Trudeau should step down, according to CBC. Weve reached a breaking point, said one Liberal who attended the meeting, and was granted anonymity to speak freely, according to Politico. Theres a critical mass now that has been reached and that was not in place before. Ontario is the countrys most populous province, and support from the Liberals there put Trudeaus confidence on life-support. Then, on Friday, George Chahal, a Liberal MP for Calgary Skyview, penned a letter to the liberal caucus urging them to support others in calling for Trudeau to step down and appoint an interim leader. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau no longer has the support of caucus and to maintain some dignity he should immediately tender his resignation, Chahal wrote. The developments arrived amid resignation calls from the Liberal Partys Atlantic caucus, Conservatives and the New Democratic Party. open image in gallery Trudeau announced his intent to resign in a televized statement ( AP ) Trudeau was all but physically backed into a corner as the opposition parties, Conservatives, the New Democratic Party and Bloc Quebecois, signaled they would move for a non-confidence vote in January when Parliament was slated to return, claiming the Liberal government does not have the confidence of Parliament. That non-confidence vote could have triggered early federal election country which Liberals were widely expected to not survive. But upon returning from a ski vacation with his family on Monday, Trudeau announced he was stepping down answering Liberals calls. It has become clear to me that if Im having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option, Trudeau said. The Liberal Party will now begin its process of selecting a new leader. Trudeau said he asked Parliament to be suspended until March. Opposition parties are still expected to hold a confidence vote which could move the federal elections up from October. When Justin Trudeau became the Canadian prime minister in 2015, people were still using that thing called Facebook. I can remember well the frothing posts by female friends, none of whom could contain their excitement at the election of this hottie PM. Furthermore, they gushed at the notion that what made him hotter still was not only that he was young and handsome, he was a lovely liberal dude too, which made him even more super-duper guy. (If my male friends had written about an equally attractive female prime minister in such a way, they might well have been cancelled, but lets park that.) As far as my friends were concerned and to be fair, Trudeau had plenty of male fanboys here was the perfect Generation X politician, and all would surely be well in his good hands. It certainly doesnt look like that any more because. With an approval rating of just 30 per cent, and facing a huge crisis in the wake of his deputy prime minister and finance minister, Chrystia Freeland, resigning, Justin Trudeau has finally stepped down. In a blunt letter to her former boss at the end of last year, Freeland laid into what she called his political gimmicks, which she said would only increase the countrys deficit at a time when it could least afford it in the expectation of Donald Trumps stinging trade tariffs. These gimmicks were indeed classic liberal nice guy policies that were designed to cosy up to the electorate. As the saying goes, the road to hell is paved with good intentions. Although Freeland was not specific, the policies she was referring to are likely to include the announcement of a sales tax exemption during the Christmas holiday season, estimated to have cost the Canadian treasury some 4bn in lost tax revenue. In essence, Trudeau was like the nice but weak dad who insists on giving the kids generous Christmas presents even though hes hideously overdrawn. Its perhaps a natural human instinct to be that nice guy part of the package of someone who is used to being liked and needs to be adored, but ultimately its shielding the electorate from just how parlous the finances are. It is often observed that what gets a politician into power is the same quality that makes them lose it. This could not be more true of the attractive liberal politicians we have seen come and go over the past few years. Good looks undoubtedly help you gain power but when you are the hot guy (or woman) in the hot seat and things arent on course, those cheekbones and cute smiles start to look like surface glitz. After all, you can never accuse a phenomenally ugly politician of style over substance, but you certainly can with a man as pretty as Trudeau. open image in gallery With US vice-president Kamala Harris in November 2021 ( Getty ) The paradox with attractive politicians is that they are expected to deliver results commensurate with their appeal, and so they often find they are judged to a higher standard. Take the case of the former Finnish prime minister Sanna Marin. Bagging the top job at just 34, Marin swiftly became an international darling, a global icon with her poise and modern aesthetic. However, her four-year career as PM also highlights the double-edged sword of being a cool and charismatic liberal leader. Take the infamous party video, which showed Marin dancing and singing with friends, which became a turning point in the publics perception. Then there is Trump, the very antithesis of the likes of Trudeau. Despite being a physically unappealing oaf, the president-elect is perhaps the vainest politician to walk the planet What could have been seen as a display of liberal normalness and work-life balance soon provided fodder for strong critiques of her leadership style. Marins policies particularly her robust stance on Ukraine became overshadowed by the image of her seemingly too-cool-for-school personal life. Her downfall in 2023 revealed how public perceptions of her image eclipsed her achievements. There can be little doubt that female politicians, especially if they are attractive, can face a harsher double standard than their male counterparts. Because being appealing to the eye is often mistaken for superficiality, leaders like Marin must have felt they constantly prove that their substance matches their style an impossible tightrope to walk for even the most capable and smart politicians. This was undoubtedly true of Denmarks first female prime minister, Helle Thorning-Schmidt, who was in power from 2011 to 2015. Dubbed Gucci Helle by critics due to her stylish wardrobe and slick MO, Thorning-Schmidts leadership faced constant scrutiny over perceptions of elitism. Her tenure was marked by significant political challenges, including economic reforms and austerity measures. While she successfully guided Denmark through turbulent economic times, her legacy was tainted by the narrative that she was out of touch with everyday Danes a critique that will be familiar to Trudeau. open image in gallery The former Canadian prime minister during a news conference in 2021 ( Getty ) It all highlights the uncomfortable reality that attractive politicians with kind hearts often face: their appearance becomes both an asset and a liability, subjecting them to heightened expectations and harsher judgement when things go wrong. Which, in politics, they invariably do. Every career in politics ends in failure but for Trudeau and his type, the fall from grace feels higher and more crushing. Then there was Jacinda Ardern, the embodiment of the hyper-liberal and sleek politician. As the prime minister of New Zealand, she became a symbol of compassionate leadership, particularly in the wake of the Christchurch mosque shootings and her governments early success in managing the Covid pandemic. Her empathy, combined with a polished media presence, made her a darling for liberals the world over. Yet all of this did little to help as her government faced mounting challenges. She was accused of failing to address New Zealands housing crisis, cost of living pressures, and rising crime. For all her international acclaim, domestically her government struggled to maintain the momentum that had defined her early years in office. Arderns decision to step down in January 2023 citing exhaustion and an acknowledgement that she no longer had enough in the tank may have been praised for its humility but it also underscored the immense scrutiny that comes with the job. The expectations placed on her leadership were as outsized as the praise she initially received, and in the end, the burden of maintaining a polished perfect image surely took its toll. open image in gallery Former Danish PM Helle Thorning-Schmidt faced constant scrutiny during her tenure ( AFP/Getty ) But the roots of the downfalls of these figures prompt a key question. Ultimately, does the constant billing and cooing they get from being such an attractive and hopeful prospect become an addiction; do they end up becoming insufferable people-pleasers, unable to wield some tough love because they so adore the adoration? In essence, does being a poster boy (or girl) for goodness mean that youre even more ready to dish out political gimmicks, like Trudeau was accused of? The example of Giorgia Meloni, the prime minister of Italy, would buck that trend. Undoubtedly good-looking, Meloni is most certainly not a liberal. And while the physical appeal of Javier Milei may be a little more specialist than that of Justin Trudeau or Frances former PM Gabriel Attal, there is no doubt that the immensely charismatic president of Argentina is about as far from being a cuddly liberal as you can get. And then there is Trump, the very antithesis of the likes of Trudeau. Despite being a physically unappealing oaf, the president-elect is perhaps the vainest politician to walk the planet. But what makes him and the likes of Meloni and Milei successful is that they simply do not care how many enemies they make. What these liberal politicians have to realise is that politics is an ugly game, and to succeed, you often have to behave like the ugliest of them all. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy After nearly 10 years leading Canada, Justin Trudeau will be replaced as prime minister by former Bank of England governor, Mark Carney. Trudeau resigned earlier this year after his finance minister Chrystia Freeland suddenly quit, amid a dispute over how best to handle US President Donald Trumps trade tariffs. Carney has vowed to battle against them until Trump shows respect. At a press conference in early January, Trudeau cited internal battles within his Liberal Party that meant he cannot be the best option in a future election. Speaking outside his residence at Rideau Cottage, Trudeau said he had taken time over the holidays to reflect with his family. Throughout the course of my career, any success I have personally achieved has been because of their support and with their encouragement, Trudeau said. So last night over dinner, I told my kids about the decision that Im sharing with you today. I intend to resign as party leader as prime minister after the party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide, competitive process. Carney, who will be sworn in as Trudeaus successor in the coming days, was on Sunday night elected as Canadas new prime minister by the members of the Liberal Party and promised to keep taking the fight to Trump. Winning with with 85.9 per cent of the votes cast by 150,000 members, Carney hit out at Trump for attacking Canadian families and wanting to destroy the Canadian way of life, describing the US presidents tariffs and threats as the greatest crisis of our lifetime. Last week, the US slapped sweeping 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods and Canada retaliated with its own 25 per cent tariffs on up to $155bn in US goods over the course of this month. Once the poster-boy for liberal politics, Trudeaus popularity waned in the final years of his tenure although the approval ratings for both he and the Liberal Party have both jumped in the wake of refusing to back down to Trump. Trudeau said in a televised address last week: Its not in my habit to agree with the Wall Street Journal, but Donald, they point out that even though you are a very smart guy, this a very dumb thing to do. But how did Trudeau end up here? open image in gallery Trudeau cited internal battles within the Liberal Party that meant he cannot be the best option in the next election ( AP ) Rapid rise of a bright young thing After starting his working life as a secondary school teacher, Trudeau took on several educational roles in charities and for the Liberal Party before he became leader of Canadas centre-left Liberal Party in 2013. In a federal election two years later led the party in a dramatic victory over the incumbent Conservative Party, cinching a parliamentary majority. Just 43 at the time, Trudeau became the second-youngest prime minister in Canadian history when he took office in 2015. The son of former prime minister Pierre Trudeau, Trudeau was touted as the new young face of Canadian politics in a profile that year by Vogue, while other news outlets labelled the new Prime Minister as extremely hot. Some of his governments major early policies included passing laws to legalize voluntary assisted dying in 2016, legalizing recreational cannabis in 2018 and negotiating the Canada-United States-Mexico trade agreement in 2018. Trudeau also apologised to Indigenous Canadians for the countrys history of abuse at residential schools, and welcomed thousands of refugees. Blackface scandal open image in gallery Photos of Mr Trudeau in blackface damaged his reputation ( Screenshot ) With approval ratings as high as 63 percent, his image took a hit after a blackface scandal in 2019. Videos and images resurfaced of Trudeau from the early 1990s and in 2001 dressed up in black or brownface, doing significant damage to his reputation as a liberal and progressive politician. Photos emerged of the then-29-year old dressed as Aladdin in brownface makeup for an Arabian Nights party, and the prime minister admitted to dressing up in blackface while performing the Jamaican folk song Day-O in high school. He also said he could not rule out more similar incidents, as he had not remembered events from some of the uncovered images. Minority government and Covid open image in gallery The prime ministers handling of the pandemic was also criticised by some ( REUTERS ) Trudeau led the Liberal Party to a narrow election win in 2019, pushing his administration into minority government. Less than two years later he held a snap election during a fourth wave of the COVID pandemic, betting his handling of the pandemic and high vaccination rates would deliver a stronger mandate in an election two years ahead of schedule, but he again failed to secure a parliamentary majority. Canadas voluntary assisted dying laws which are some of the most permissive euthanasia laws in the world started coming under more intense pressure from 2022 with advocates saying the system needed further scrutiny, as they argued a significant number of people were being euthanised when instead their pain could be alleviated with better government assistance. Trudeau has become deeply unpopular in the last few years thanks to booming immigration, soaring housing prices and inflation. More than 70 percent of polled Canadians think the country is broken under his leadership. In October this year, Trudeau announced Canada would reduce permanent migration by 21 per cent in 2025 from 500,00 migrants to 395,000 admitting the government didnt get the balance quite right with its earlier target. Trump tariff woes open image in gallery The row over the threat of Trumps tariffs contributed to Trudeaus resignation ( AP ) Trump was quick to announce plans to slap a 25 percent tariff on goods from Canada when he won his second term in the White House in November. At starkly opposite ends of the political spectrum, Trump and Trudeau have never seen eye-to-eye. The billionaire mockingly referred to Trudeau as governor Justin Trudeau of the great state of Canada following a recent dinner meeting at the president-elects estate Mar-a-Lago. On December 16, Canadas deputy prime minister and minister of finance Chrystia Freeland resigned over the issue just hours before she was set to release the countrys latest economic plan, questioning Trudeaus ability to deal with the incoming Trump administration. Trudeau, called it one of the Liberal Partys toughest days, which ultimately led to his resignation. Trudeau praised her as an incredible political partner of almost a decade, but expressed disappointment in her resignation. Chrystia has been by my side for close to 10 years now. She has been an incredible political partner through just about everything we have done as a government and as a party over the past decade, Trudeau said. But he added: I had really hoped that she would agree to continue as my deputy prime minister and take on one of the most important files that not just this government, this country is facing, but she chose otherwise in regards to what actually happened. Split with wife of nearly 2 decades Trudeau and his ex-wife Sophie Gregoire announced they were splitting up in August 2023 after nearly two decades of marriage. They wed in 2005 and have three children together Xavier, Ella-Grace, and Hadrien. Trudeau wrote at the time: Sophie and I would like to share the fact that after many meaningful and difficult conversation, we have made the decision to separate. Earlier this year Gregoire, a former entertainment journalist, spoke out about the hurt their separation has caused. open image in gallery Justin Trudeau, his wife Sophie Gregoire, son Xavier and daughter Ella-Grace in 2013 after he was named the new leader of the Liberal Party ( REUTERS ) It hurts deeply, because in a way we have these two words in our language. You know, marriage is success. Separation and divorce is failure, she told the podcast Next Question With Katie Couric. But life happens in between. And we dramatize our relationships because we are insecure, we are afraid to be abandoned, we are afraid to be alone as human beings. It is not in our nature to be alone and just living alone. Comments Gregoire made before the split on Meghan Markles Spotify podcast Archetypes resurfaced after the announcement, where she talked about a longing to breakaway from the traditional role of motherhood in the family. Women across this planet are still the nucleus of the family, they still carry most of the load for housework, contributing to the familys well-being and most decisions concerning the kids, she said. But I think were all that lioness, we all have that inside of us, and we all long to be free in who we are. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Canadian Prime MinisterJustin Trudeau is stepping down as leader of the Liberal Party after serving as prime minister for nearly a decade a move that requires the party to choose a new leader. Facing mounting pressure to resign from members of his own party, Trudeau announced on Monday he will step down from his post which he was first elected to in 2015. open image in gallery Trudeau, who has led the Liberal Party since 2015, will step down from his position ( AP ) I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister after the party selects its next leader through a robust nationwide, competitive process, Trudeau said on Monday. Now, the Liberal Party will decide on its next leader by holding a contest to decide who will succeed Trudeau. Until they do so, Trudeau will remain prime minister. The move comes eight months before the country is expected to hold federal elections For months, Trudeau has been facing resignation calls as Canadians face a cost of living crisis and, now, fears of economic turmoil thanks to President-elect Donald Trumps threat to impose a 25 percent tariff. Those calls became more aggressive in December after Chrystia Freeland, the deputy prime minister and finance minister, unexpectedly resigned. That was, in part, due to disagreements over how to handle the potential tariffs. By the end of the year, Liberal caucus members had joined the resignation calls, leaving Trudeau with dwindling options. While announcing his resignation, Trudeau citing fighting internal battles as one of the reasons he was stepping down. open image in gallery Trumps threat to impose a 25 percent tariff on Canada sparked internal battles among Trudeau and his party ( AP ) Trudeau said he asked the president of the Liberal Party, Sachit Mehra, to begin the leadership selection process. The Liberal Party would have until March 24 to decide on a new leader. Parliament was supposed to resume on January 27 but Trudeau has asked for a lengthy suspension to give the party time. Canadas opposition parties, the Conservative Party, Bloc Quebecois and the New Democratic Party, all said they planned to hold a non-confidence vote when Parliament returned. Should the vote prevail, which it is likely to, it would trigger an early federal election. In the meantime, the Liberal Party national board of directors must meet within the month to set a date for a leadership vote as well as establish other parameters around the leadership contest, according to the partys constitution. Several people could replace Trudeau as Liberal Party leader, including Freeland. As the former deputy, she is one of the most well-known members of Trudeaus team and a top contender. Transport Minister Anita Anand could be considered for the position, as well as Francois-Philippe Champagne, the registrar of Canada and minister of innovation, science and industry, Other names thrown into the mix include Melanie Joy, the minister of foreign affairs; Sean Fraser, the former minister of immigration and former minister of housing; Mark Carney, an adviser to Trudeau and the former governor of the Bank of England; Christy Clark, the former premier of British Columbia; and Dominic LeBlanc, the minister of finance. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Will TikTok be banned this month? Thats the pressing question keeping creators and small business owners in anxious limbo as they await a decision that could upend their livelihoods. The fate of the popular app will be decided by the Supreme Court, which will hear arguments on Jan. 10 over a law requiring TikTok to break ties with its Chinese-based parent company, ByteDance, or face a U.S. ban. At the heart of the case is whether the law violates the First Amendment with TikTok and its creator allies arguing that it does. The U.S. government, which sees the platform as a national security risk, says it does not. For creators, the TikTok doomsday scenarios are nothing new since President-elect Donald Trump first tried to ban the platform through executive order during his first term. But despite Trump's recent statements indicating he now wants TikTok to stick around, the prospect of a ban has never been as immediate as it is now with the Supreme Court serving as the final arbiter. If the government prevails as it did in a lower court, TikTok says it would shut down its U.S. platform by Jan. 19, leaving creators scrambling to redefine their futures. A lot of my other creative friends, we're all like freaking out. But I'm staying calm, said Gillian Johnson, who benefited financially from TikToks live feature and rewards program, which helped creators generate higher revenue potential by posting high-quality original content. The 22-year-old filmmaker and recent college graduate uses her TikTok earnings to help fund her equipment for projects such as camera lens and editing software for her short films Gambit and Awaken! My Neighbor. Johnson said the idea of TikTok going away is hard to accept. open image in gallery Tiktok creators are in limbo as a potential ban on the popular social media app is just days away ( AP ) Many creators have taken to TikTok to voice their frustrations, grappling with the possibility that the platform theyve invested so much in could soon disappear. Online communities risk being disrupted, and the economic fallout could especially be devastating for those who mainly depend on TikTok and have left full-time jobs to build careers and incomes around their content. For some, the uncertainty has led them to question whether to continue creating content at all, according to Johnson, who says she knows creators who have been thinking about quitting. But Nicla Bartoli, the vice president of sales at The Influencer Marketing Factory, said the creators she has interreacted with have not been too worried since news about a potential TikTok ban has come up repeatedly over the years, and then died down. I believe a good chunk think it is not going to happen," said Bartoli, whose agency works to pair influencers and brands. It's unclear how quickly the Supreme Court will issue a decision. But the court could act swiftly to block the law from going into effect if at least five of the nine justices deem it unconstitutional. Trump, for his part, has already asked the justices to put a pause on the ban so he could weigh in after he takes office. In a brief written by his pick for solicitor general Trump called the First Amendment implications of a TikTok ban sweeping and troubling" and said he wants a negotiated resolution to the issue, something the Biden administration had pursued to no avail. While waiting for the dust to settle in Washington, some creators are exploring alternatives ways to promote themselves or their business, encouraging users to follow them on other social media platforms or are investing more time producing non-TikTok content. Johnson says she is already strategizing her next move and exploring alternative opportunities. While she hasnt found a place quite like TikTok, shes begun to spend more of her time on other platforms, such as Instagram and YouTube, both of whom are expected to benefit financially if TikTok vanishes. According to a report by Goldman Sachs, the so-called creator economy, which has been fueled in part by TikTok, could be worth $480 billion by 2027. Because the opportunity to monetize content exists across a range of platforms, a vast amount of creators have already diversified their social media presence. However, many TikTok creators have credited the platform and its algorithm with giving them a type of exposure they did not receive on other platforms. Some say it has also boosted and provided opportunities for creators of color and those from other marginalized groups. Despite fears about the fate of TikTok, industry analysts note creators are generally avoiding making any big changes, like abandoning platform, until something actually happens. Im anxious but also trying to be hopeful in a weird way," said Brandon Hurst, who credits TikTok with rescuing his business from obscurity and propelling it into rapid growth. A year after joining TikTok, the 30-year-old Hurst, who sells plants, said his sales doubled, outpacing the traction hed struggled to gain on Instagram. He built his clientele through the live feature on TikTok, which has helped him sell more than 77,000 plants. The business has thrived so much that he says he now employs five people, including his husband and mom. "For me, this has been my sole way of doing business," Hurst said. open image in gallery The fate of the popular app will be decided by the Supreme Court, which will hear arguments on Jan. 10 ( AP ) Billion Dollar Boy, a New York-based influencer marketing agency, has advised creators to download all of their TikTok content into a personal portfolio, which is especially important for those who post primarily on the platform, said Edward East, the agencys founder and group CEO. This can help them quickly build their audiences elsewhere. Plus it can serve as a resume for brands who might want to partner with them for product advertisements, East said. But until the deadline of Jan. 19 comes around, East said creators should continue to post regularly on TikTok, which has 170 million month U.S. users and remains highly effective in reaching audiences. If the Supreme Court does not delay the ban, as Trump is asking them to do, app stores and internet service providers would be required to stop providing service to TikTok by Jan. 19. That means anyone who doesn't have TikTok on their phone would be unable to download it. TikTok users would continue to have access, but the prohibitions which will prevent them from updating the app will eventually make the app "unworkable, the Justice Department has said. TikTok said in court documents that it estimates a one-month shutdown would cause the platform to lose approximately a third of its daily users in the U.S. The company argues a shutdown, even if temporary, will cause it irreparable harm, a legal bar used by judges to determine whether to put the brakes on a law facing a challenge. In under three weeks, Americans will know if the Supreme Court agrees. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The snowstorm that descended on Washington, D.C., and other parts of the mid-Atlantic region on Monday marked a surreal fourth anniversary to the January 6 attack of 2021. And with Donald Trump now set to return to the White House in exactly two weeks, the day has taken on a kind of Festivus-esque vibe as liberals and even some members of the press participate in an unofficial Airing of Grievances. If the Seinfeld-glorified holidays motto is Ive got a lot of problems with you people, and now youre going to hear about it, January 6s felt similarly accusatory: Hey Republicans: guess whos not storming the Capitol today? The return of Trump to the presidency means an end to the two prosecutions of the 45th president pursued by the Justice Department. Fulton Countys case against him looks to be in tatters thanks to what can only be described as the intimate escapades of District Attorney Fani Willis. In short, save for a potential sentencing in his New York criminal fraud trial, Donald Trump has wriggled his way free from every remaining major legal consequence stemming from his last four years in office and his years in business. The liberal dream of seeing Americas justice system deliver a knockout blow is dead. Worse than dead, actually: Trump may well pardon some or all of the defendants charged with crimes for the violent assault on the seat of U.S. democracy. That sense was palpable across social media on Monday as a frozen nations capital came to terms with reality. open image in gallery The snow-covered U.S. Capitol building is seen through black security fencing on the fourth anniversary of the January 6 attack ( Getty Images ) January 6 left a kind of permanent shock on the minds of many in Washington whod never expected such widespread unrest to play out not just in the Capitol but across pockets of the whole city that day. That shock and the residual anger stemming from the twin failures (in many minds) of the justice system and the Democratic Party to stand up to Trump in an effective manner this year led many to focus their outrage on the anniversary of the attack. Lawmakers met on Monday afternoon to certify the presidential election results for the first time since that attack. For the third year in a row, black metal security fencing surrounded the Capitol complex, and for the third time there wasnt even a hint of protests. Republicans were hard at work, once again, rewriting history in preparation for the return of Trump to the capital. Mike Collins won the title of the GOPs chief anti-historian for the day with his newest kindly descriptor for the rioters who injured dozens of officers on January 6. On #ThisDayInHistory in 2021, thousands of peaceful grandmothers gathered in Washington, D.C., to take a self-guided, albeit unauthorized, tour of the U.S. Capitol building, he wrote. The election certification today is vastly different than 2020 no COVID lockdowns, high GOP engagement on election integrity, and a historic win by President Trump, added Marjorie Taylor Greene. With their party now consigned to the minority in both chambers and denied four more years of White House control, Democrats meanwhile resigned themselves to a series of statements essentially congratulating themselves for not attempting a coup. There was Jim Clyburn, a key ally to President Joe Biden, speaking with the latters former press secretary Jen Psaki on MSNBC: It is a very unnerving moment. I do not believe we will have a repeat of [Jan 6]. We will have a Vice President who believes in the peaceful transition of the office. She will preside over her own defeat. I saw Al Gore do that some years ago, he continued. This is what makes America great. I hope the American people will take time out to watch this tomorrow and, hopefully, have their faith in this great country renewed." open image in gallery (L-R) US Senator Deb Fischer, Republican from Nebraska, speaks as US Vice President Kamala Harris and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson look on during of a joint session of Congress to certify the results of the 2024 Presidential election ( AFP via Getty Images ) The digs from his colleagues were sharper. Eric Swalwell, who frequently jousts with Republicans, commenting on the weather: Man, January 6 would have been a different day if it looked like today. No way Trumps goons fight the cops if its freezing and snowing. Adam Smith, on Fox News, needling the shows anchor: I do find it interesting that Fox News is only concerned about Democratic election deniers. It seems like the Republicans took that whole thing a little bit more seriously in terms of storming the Capitol. A slew of reporters tweeted clips of the worst violence from the attack, and cable news saw the return of a familiar cast of Jan 6 heroes, former Capitol Police officers Harry Dunn, Aquilino Gonell and Daniel Hodges, who all found their way back in front of the cameras this week. And there was even the vice president (and Trumps failed opponent) herself. Kamala Harris on Monday released a video message previewing what could well be her last big act on the political stage: a grim, nonpartisan certification of her own defeat. As we have seen, our democracy is fragile, says Harris in the video. And it is up to then each one of us to stand up for our most cherished principles. Washingtons liberals are making it clear: theyre not entirely ready to move on. The onset of the Trump presidency just may not give them a choice. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Former GOP Representative Adam Kinzinger has mocked Republican lawmakers who changed their tune on the January 6 Capitol attack by reposting statements they made four years ago. Kinzinger, a former Illinois congressman who campaigned for Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election, hit out at Republicans who have backpedaled on their criticism of President-elect Donald Trump and the violent events of that day in 2021. Among the senators Kinzinger roasted was Trump ally and staunch defender Lindsey Graham. Those who made this attack on our government need to be identified and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, Graham said four years ago on X (formerly Twitter). Their actions are repugnant to democracy. While Graham was critical of Trump during the presidential campaign and reportedly advised him to stop mentioning the 2020 election, he has since championed the Republican. Kinzinger reposted Grahams statement simply saying: Agreed. open image in gallery Former GOP Representative Adam Kinzinger has hit out at Republican lawmakers over Jan 6 ( EPA ) He also shared a 2021 X statement from Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, who was a key figure in the campaign to keep Trump in the White House after losing the 2020 election. I unambiguously condemn in the strongest possible terms any and all forms of violent protest, Johnson said at the time. Any individual who committed violence today should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Thanks @SpeakerJohnson, Kinzinger said as he shared the four-year-old post. open image in gallery Three police officers stand in front of the U.S. Capitol Building on Monday in Washington, D.C. ,Monday marks the fourth anniversary since rioters stormed the Capitol ( Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images ) These actions at the US Capitol by protestors are truly despicable and unacceptable. While I am safe and sheltering in place, these protests are prohibiting us from doing our constitutional duty. Senator Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee wrote four years ago on X. I condemn them in the strongest possible terms. We are a nation of laws, Blackburn added, to which Kinzinger reposted and said: Thanks @MarshaBlackburn. He also shared a 2021 post from conservative radio host Erik Erikson that called for the protestors to be shot and to deny [Trump] the ability to run for election again. Kinzinger lashed out at his former political allies and accused them of cowardice. Jan 6th is a reminder to me: cowardice spreads like wildfire, he said in a follow up post on X. This country needs leaders who are willing to tell the people the truth, not pander to lies. It comes as Trumps 2024 election win over Harris was certified by a joint session of Congress on Monday in just 28 minutes. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy President Joe Biden reflected on the anniversary of the January 6 attack on the Capitol and took a jab at President-elect Donald Trumps role in it, hours before Congress certifies the election results. Speaking with reporters on Sunday in the East Room, Biden maintained that he believes Trumps actions after the 2020 presidential election threatened democracy by inspiring a mob of angry supporters to storm the Capitol on election certification day. I think what he did was a genuine threat to democracy, Biden said. And Im hopeful that were beyond it. The president added that the United States needs to get back to establishing basic democratic norms. open image in gallery Biden has condemned the actions of rioters and Trump on January 6 throughout his presidency ( Getty Images ) His remarks were made just a day before Congress convenes to certify the 2024 presidential election results exactly four years after Trump supporters attempted to interrupt the certification, believing Trump had unfairly lost. Throughout his presidency, Biden has reiterated the importance of remembering the attack on the Capitol to ensure it does not happen again. He has held the president-elect partially responsible for the violent day because Trump spread lies about mass voter fraud. Meanwhile, as Trump has ascended to political victory once again, he has often tried to re-characterize January 6, 2021, as a day of love and peace. Five people died in connection with January 6 and hundreds of others were injured. At least 1,400 rioters have been charged with federal crimes for their actions that day. open image in gallery Rioters stormed the Capitol on January 6, 2021, believing Trump had unfairly lost the 2020 election ( REUTERS ) But Trump has excused his supporters behavior and promised to pardon those convicted of crimes. In addition to his comments on Sunday evening, Biden also penned an op-ed for the Washington Post emphasizing the importance of remembering January 6, 2021, for what it was. An unrelenting effort has been underway to rewrite even erase the history of that day. To tell us we didnt see what we all saw with our own eyes. To dismiss concerns about it as some kind of partisan obsession. To explain it away as a protest that just got out of hand, Biden wrote. This is not what happened. The president recounted the day, calling it a day when our democracy was put to the test. He reminded people of the violence that led to multiple deaths and hundreds of injuries. But he also offered a message of hope, saying democracy prevailed. Unlike Trump in 2021, Biden said he will attend inauguration in two weeks to uphold tradition but also to set an example. Putting aside any historic animosity, Biden has directed his team to be available to Trump and his transition team to ensure a smooth process. As part of the smooth transition process, Congress will certify election results on Monday with no expected interruptions. Trump, meanwhile, is expected to remain in Florida at his Mar-a-Lago residence. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy President-elect Donald Trump has reportedly been reassured by a top Republican that his controversial pick for Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, has enough backing from the GOP to be confirmed by the Senate. Senate Majority Leader John Thune told Trump that the former Fox News host has the required number of votes to survive the confirmation process, CBS News reported, citing three sources. However, speaking to CBSs "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" Thune, said that the process would be fair but reiterated that the nominees would all have to make their case in front of the committee. I think these are nominees who are new enough, theyve been going around and conducting their meetings, which I think, frankly, have gone very well, but they still have to make their case in front of the committee. And, you know, we dont know all the information about some of these nominees. open image in gallery Pete Hegseths nomination for Defense Secretary raised eyebrows in Washington, though he has held on thus far ahead of his being sworn in as head of the Pentagon on January 15. Now, a senator has said he has enough votes to be confirmed ( AP ) The 44-year-olds nomination for the role raised eyebrows in Washington, though he has held on despite the criticism ahead of his grilling from lawmakers, scheduled to take place on January 14. When asked to confirm the reports, a spokesperson from Hegseth told CBS News: Two things we dont discuss publicly: Whip counts and private conversations with the president. Scrutiny over the appointment of Hegseth comes amid allegations of sexual misconduct against the former marine by an anonymous woman, who has accused him of sexual assault in a California hotel room back in 2017. Hegseth and his lawyers have claimed the encounter was consensual and prosecutors declined to file charges against the Fox News star following an investigation. After the accuser threatened to sue Hegseth in 2020, they entered a non-disclosure agreement and Hegseth paid the individual. It was announced recently that he had agreed to release his accuser from the NDA. open image in gallery Senate Majority leader John Thune reportedly reassured the President-elect that Hegseth would survive the confirmation process ( AP ) Senate Republicans have warned that Hegseth is likely to face a frenzy of uncomfortable questions about the sexual misconduct allegations as well as claims against him of excessive drinking and financial mismanagement. A report in The New Yorker also claimed Hegseth had once drunkenly shouted kill all Muslims! while on a night out during his tenure as president of a veterans group. Hegseth has vowed not to drink alcohol if he is confirmed to lead the Department of Defense. An advisor to Hegseth also said previously that he is willing to discuss any and all allegations against him in meetings with senators. Mr. Hegseth has assured the Senators with whom he is meeting that they will be able to fulfill their advise and consent duties when it comes to this and all topics, said the advisor. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Joe Biden has signed into law a measure that will boost Social Security payments for current and former public employees, including teachers, firefighters, police officers and other public service jobs. Advocates say the Social Security Fairness Act which is set to impact around three million people across the country rights a decades-old disparity. However, it will also put strain on Social Security Trust Funds, which face a looming insolvency crisis. Im proud to be the first president in more than 20 years to expand Social Security benefits. Workers who dedicated their lives to their communities deserve to retire with dignity and security, Biden wrote on X on Sunday. The bill rescinds two provisions the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset that limit Social Security benefits for recipients if they get retirement payments from other sources, including public retirement programs from a state or local government. The Congressional Research Service estimated that in December 2023, there were 745,679 people, about 1 percent of all Social Security beneficiaries, who had their benefits reduced by the Government Pension Offset. About 2.1 million people, or about 3 percent of all beneficiaries, were affected by the Windfall Elimination Provision. open image in gallery Biden signed the bill into law on Sunday, which is set to affect some three million people across the U.S. ( AFP via Getty Images ) The Congressional Budget Office estimated in September that eliminating the Windfall Elimination Provision would boost monthly payments to the affected beneficiaries by an average of $360 by December 2025. Ending the Government Pension Offset would increase monthly benefits in December 2025 by an average of $700 for 380,000 recipients getting benefits based on living spouses, according to the CBO. The increase would be an average of $1,190 for 390,000 or surviving spouses getting a widow or widower benefit. Those amounts would increase over time with Social Securitys regular cost-of-living adjustments. The change is to payments from January 2024 and beyond, meaning the Social Security Administration would owe back-dated payments. The measure as passed by Congress says the Social Security commissioner "shall adjust primary insurance amounts to the extent necessary to take into account changes in the law. It's not immediately clear how this will happen or whether people affected will have to take any action. Edward Kelly, president of the International Association of Fire Fighters, said firefighters across the country are excited to see the change we've righted a 40-year wrong. Kelly said the policy was far more egregious for surviving spouses of firefighters who paid their own quotas into Social Security but were victimized by the government pension system. The IAFF has roughly 320,000 members, which does not include hundreds of thousands of retirees who will benefit from the change. Now firefighters who get paid very little can now afford to actually retire," Kelly said. Sherrod Brown, who as an Ohio senator pushed for the proposal for years, lost his reelection bid in November. Lee Saunders, president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees labor union, thanked Brown for his advocacy. Over two million public service workers will finally be able to access the Social Security benefits they spent their careers paying into," Saunders said in a statement. "Many will finally be able to enjoy retirement after a lifetime of service. National Education Association President Becky Pringle said the law is a historic victory that will improve the lives of educators, first responders, postal workers and others who dedicate their lives to public service in their communities. open image in gallery Biden said in a social media post that workers who had dedicated their lives to their communities deserve to retire with dignity and security ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) And while some Republicans such as Maine Sen. Susan Collins supported the legislation, others, including Sens. John Thune of South Dakota, Rand Paul of Kentucky and Thom Tillis of North Carolina, voted against it. We caved to the pressure of the moment instead of doing this on a sustainable basis, Tillis told The Associated Press last month. Still, Republican supporters of the bill said there was a rare opportunity to address what they described as an unfair section of federal law that hurts public service retirees. The future of Social Security has become a top political issue and was a major point of contention in the 2024 election. About 72.5 million people, including retirees, disabled people and children, receive Social Security benefits. The policy changes from the new law will heap more administrative work on the Social Security Administration, which is already at its lowest staffing level in decades. The agency, currently under a hiring freeze, has a staff of about 56,645 the lowest level in over 50 years even as it serves more people than ever. The annual Social Security and Medicare trustees report released last May said the programs trust fund will be unable to pay full benefits beginning in 2035. The new law will hasten the programs insolvency date by about half a year. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Donald Trumps incoming chief of staff Susie Wiles plans to take a no-nonsense unified approach to running the West Wing of the White House to prevent the mistakes of her bosss first administration from plaguing his second. Wiles, 67, is sometimes referred to as the ice maiden a nickname Trump bestowed upon her due to her cool composition and ability to wrangle Trumpworld into an organized fashion. She exercised that attitude in an exclusive interview with Axios about her plans for the White House. "I dont welcome people who want to work solo or be a star," Wiles said via email. "My team and I will not tolerate backbiting, second-guessing inappropriately, or drama. These are counterproductive to the mission." Wiless philosophy seems to take lessons learned from Trumps first administration which saw unprecedented turnover and a culture of leaks. Trump and his allies have often blamed their lack of political experience in Washington D.C. for the chaotic administration. The president-elect has come to highly value loyalty due to the revolving door of cabinet members and staffers that sometimes turned their back on Trump. open image in gallery Wiles has worked on multiple presidential and gubernatorial campaigns ( REUTERS ) But Wiles is determined to prevent that this time around. Part of her method is to keep conversations between her and Trump quiet. She never tells others what she tells Trump and only disagrees with him privately, according to Axios. "I have every hope that the 47 administration will not have the same number of attempts to put sand in the gears," Wiles told the outlet. Wiles rose to public prominence by helping bring Trumps latest presidential campaign to victory. She played a massive role while keeping herself out of the spotlight a relatively rare position in Trumpworld. Wiles isnt motivated by fame or money, sources told the New York Times. Instead, she enjoys remaining behind the scenes and influencing powerful people not managing them. open image in gallery Wiles is an influential figure on Trumps team but manages to stay out of the spotlight ( AP ) Though she was not known publicly, Wiles is a veteran of political campaigns. She worked on Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bushs presidential campaigns and helped get Rick Scott elected governor of Florida. Before joining Trumps campaign she helped Florida Governor Ron DeSantis get elected and rise to national prominence. Theres no exact secret to her methods but she told Axios that teamwork and mutual support are key. Its not magic set goals and timelines for me and the team and then work to exceed them. Simple, yes, but this worked quite nicely on the campaign, Wiles added. Perhaps one of Wiless most effective tools is her ability to remain in the shadows even while working with the soon-to-be most powerful person in the United States. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Exactly four years after a mob of Donald Trumps supporters perpetrated the worst attack on the U.S. Capitol since Major General Robert Ross ordered British soldiers to set it ablaze more than two centuries before, Vice President Kamala Harris presided over a joint session of Congress to give Trump the peaceful transfer of power she was denied after the 2020 election. Harris who four years earlier was both vice president-elect and the sitting junior senator from California led senators from their chamber across the Capitols ornate rotunda into the House chamber at exactly 1 p.m. Monday, the date laid out in American law for Congress to officially certify the election of the next president and vice president. She smiled as she entered the chamber to polite applause from both sides of the aisle. She walked past a beaming Marjorie Taylor Greene, an outspoken supporter of the rioters who stormed the same room four years ago. JD Vance, vice president-elect, entered shortly after and took his seat in the front row. Harris stood alongside Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson as both watched as the Electoral College votes were counted. Unlike four years ago, when then-vice president Mike Pence read out the results and asked if senators or representatives had any objections to each states electoral vote totals, this years joint session employed a new procedure devised by lawmakers in the wake of Trumps effort to overturn the election results four years ago. Though Harris called the joint session to order, she played no role in the counting or reading of the Electoral College vote totals. Instead, selected tellers members of the House and Senate chosen by leadership read out the states and their vote results in alphabetical order. open image in gallery U.S. Capitol Police officers stand watch outside the U.S. Capitol building as snow falls ahead of a joint session of Congress. Travel in the area has been snarled by Winter Storm Blair ( Photo by SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Images ) While Pence had taken a moment to ask for objections and read other parliamentary language about the provenance of the electoral certificates, Harris did not interject as each states results were called out. Trumps vote total passed the requisite 270 needed for him to claim the presidency after the results from the state of Texas were read. Once all the states had been read out, Harris called for the House and Senate tellers to report the result. She then read out the words that sealed her defeat, telling the joint session: The votes for president of the United States are as follows: Donald J. Trump of the state of Florida has received 312 votes. Kamala D. Harris of the State of California has received 226 votes. Harris then read out the result for the next vice president, telling the assembled House and Senate members that Vance had received 312 votes while her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, had earned 226. This announcement of the state of the vote by the President of the Senate shall be deemed a sufficient declaration of the persons elected president and vice president of the United States, each for a term beginning on the 20th day of January, 2025 and shall be entered. Together with the list of the votes on the journals of the House and the Senate, she said. It was a process that took just half an hour a far cry from the nearly 15 hours that elapsed from the time Pence gaveled in the joint session in 2021 to when he declared Biden and Harris the winners in the wee hours of January 7 after the riot by the then-presidents supporters forced lawmakers to shelter in place after fleeing the House and Senate chambers for their lives. open image in gallery Harris said it had been obviously a very important day and stressed that the drama-free certification that had taken place should be the norm ( AP ) Unlike four years ago, not a single senator or representative objected to the certification, and Harris was able to exit after completing her duties. In a pre-recorded video message, she had said she would perform her constitutional duty as Vice President of the United States to certify the results of the 2024 election and called her role a sacred obligationone I will uphold guided by love of country, loyalty to our Constitution, and my unwavering faith in the American people, The peaceful transfer of power is one of the most fundamental principles of American democracy. As much as any other principle, it is what distinguishes our system of government from monarchy or tyranny, she said. Harris echoed those comments later in the day in brief remarks to reporters after the joint session had come to a close. She said it had been obviously a very important day and stressed that the drama-free certification that had taken place should be the norm and is what the American people should be able to take for granted ... that there will be a peaceful transfer of power. Today, I did what I have done my entire career, which is take seriously the oath that I have taken many times to support and defend the Constitution of the United States, which included today performing my constitutional duties to ensure that the people of America, the voters of America, will have their votes counted, that those votes matter, and that they will determine that the outcome of an election, she said. Pence, Harriss predecessor, posted a message to X (formerly Twitter) calling the peaceful transfer of power a hallmark of our democracy and praising representatives and senators for crtifying the election without controversy or objection. I welcome the return of order and civility to these historic proceedings and offer my most sincere congratulations and prayers to President Donald J. Trump and Vice President J. D. Vance on their election to lead this great Nation, he said. He also offered commendation to the House and Senate members and Harris who he said did their duty under the Constitution of the United States with Harriss actions being particularly admirable as she presided like Pence had over the certification of a presidential election that she lost. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Donald Trump is facing criticism for premiering a documentary over the weekend at Mar-a-Lago about an allied lawyer who helped him strategize about how to overturn the 2020 election results. The film, The Eastman Dilemma: Lawfare of Justice, profiles lawyer John Eastman, who helped Donald Trump formulate an unprecedented, illegal plan to use Congress and the vice-president to overturn the certification of the 2020 election results. The documentary examines growing evidence that a two-tiered justice system has emerged, where conservative figures face severe penalties, according to its creators. Other election deniers were also at the event, including his former national security adviser Michael Flynn, former lawyer Rudy Giuliani and former trade official Peter Navarro, who helped devise a separate plan from Eastmans to reject the 2020 results and later spent time in prison for being in contempt of the January 6 congressional committee. The event, which was closed to the press, prompted outrage from panelists on MSNBCs The Weekend. John Eastman advised Donald Trump that Mike Pence could halt certification. Trump is facing criticsm for ailing a documentary about the effort ( REUTERS ) This is sickening!" Symone Sanders-Townsend said on Sunday. "Those people are not patriots," she added. "What Donald Trump did last night is a disgrace to the country. Its a disgrace to the Constitution, and the fact that they didnt tell anybody about it lets you know that they knew what they were doing was untoward. They didnt want to put a spotlight on it, but they wanted to do it anyway." The Independent has contacted the Trump transition team for comment. During the event, Trump reportedly praised Eastman. "Im a big fan of John Eastman, MSNBC reported Trump as saying. Yknow, he was right. He happened to be right. Thats why they changed the law and nobody wants to talk about that...They said hes not allowed to do it, hes not allowed to do it, and they convinced him hes not allowed to do it our vice president then right after the election they changed the law so he cant do it. The comments were a reference to President Biden in 2022 signing changes to the archaic Electoral Count Act, clarifying that the vice president plays a ceremonial role and that each state only has one lawful slate of electors. The reforms both directly answered to unprecedented tactics Trump used to attempt to overturn the 2020 results. The Saturday premiere, which coincided with a visit from Italian Prime Minister Giogia Meloni, came just two days before January 6, both the anniversary of the pro-Trump insurrection at the U.S. Capitol and the federally mandated date on which Kamala Harris will certify the 2024 election results. Eastman is currently among the Trump allies being prosecuted in Georgia and Arizona for their alleged roles in conspiracies to interfere with the 2020 election process, and a judge recommended this year he be disbarred from practicing law in California. Eastman failed to uphold his primary duty of honesty and breached his ethical obligations by presenting falsehoods to bolster his legal arguments, the judge in California wrote. Eastman has pleaded not guilty in both state cases, and has attempted to appeal the disbarment process. The best of Voices delivered to your inbox every week - from controversial columns to expert analysis Sign up for our free weekly Voices newsletter for expert opinion and columns Sign up to our free weekly Voices newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy President-elect Donald Trump is not someone who plays down expectations, whether about himself or the United States. And he raises the expectations of others accordingly. His re-entry onto the world stage after his victory in last years election prompted urgent shifts in international dynamics on the part of national leaders around the world, simply in anticipation. From midday on Monday, Mr Trumps power is real. With it comes promise and peril. Four years ago, the inauguration of Joe Biden as US president was greeted, especially in Europe, as heralding a welcome return to normality. By which was meant a re-emphasis on Atlanticism abroad, a respect for the constitution at home, and, above all, a steady, predictable hand on the global tiller. That is not quite how it turned out. From the chaotic end to the US-led intervention in Afghanistan to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the new hostilities in the Middle East, Bidens four years encompassed as much, if not more, destructive disruption as any recent US presidents term. That needs to be borne in mind as Mr Trump enters the White House again. Stuff happens. But Mr Trump is different and not just from his predecessor in both the scope of his personal ambition and how he believes he can use American power, but also in the extent to which his personality dictates the terms and draws the limelight for better and worse. Early proof of the promise his presidency could bring were the joyous scenes that followed the agreement between Israel and Hamas; the celebrations on the streets of Tel Aviv, the festivities even amid the devastation of Gaza, and the rapturous reception, on both sides, for the released captives. The Biden and Trump teams may dispute where the credit lies for this lamentably overdue ceasefire, but Mr Trumps imminent inauguration and the pressure exerted by his envoy on the hitherto immovable Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu are surely part of the explanation. It must be hoped that President Trump we must become used to hearing that combination again can follow through, not only to pre-empt any backsliding by either signatory to this agreement but to ensure that the next stages are honoured, bringing the release of all Hamas hostages, and the possibility of rebuilding in a peace that increasingly embraces the whole region. This will not be easy; Syria, Iran and maybe Turkey are, or could all be, in the throes of change. Mr Trumps other foreign policy projects, as so far outlined, present at least as much peril as promise. He has undertaken to end the war in Ukraine, but he must do so without placing Ukraines future at still greater risk or appearing to acquiesce in the change of national borders by military force. Unpredictability and risk-taking here could have lethal consequences. European members of Nato have been making some efforts to prepare for a time when they might have to take more responsibility for Europes security, but there is a long way still to go. Trump 1.0 raised concerns in the end unwarranted that the US could forsake Europe. There is less alarm over Trump 2.0 but no room for complacency, either. Mr Trump has a keen sense of where power lies, abroad as at home. He has US relations with China in his sights as a priority hence the invitation to President Xi Jinping to his inauguration. Mr Xi himself is not going but he is sending a deputy; the honour, in other words, was recognised, not spurned. Will Mr Trump suspend, or soften, the ban on the Chinese-owned social media app TikTok, if only as a gesture? Is that the right thing to do? Will Mr Trump start a wider trade war with his threat to impose tariffs, or is the threat more by way of a signal from this arch-realist and disruptor that the rest of the world must strike new bargains to protect what he sees as the US national interest? Europe, in particular, must be as much on its guard as it was eight years ago, so as not to be wrong-footed by a US president whose exclusive concern, to a greater extent than many recent predecessors, is the security and prosperity of the United States. This is also how his striking talk about Canada, Greenland and the Panama Canal might be taken, as a 21st-century Monroe Doctrine, which sees the US in hemisphere, rather than global, terms. There have been mixed signals about how far Mr Trumps British in fact, Scottish connection could translate into closer, or less close, relations with the UK. With gaps already evident over policy towards Ukraine and the Middle East, not to mention the Chagos Islands, this is already looking to be a delicate relationship, even as it has become more crucial for the UK after Brexit. If, however, as The Independent has reported, the new US administration could decide to reject Sir Keir Starmers nominee for ambassador, that could not but sour relations, while underlining the disparity in power. Lord Mandelson has his flaws but an ambassador with the ear of the prime minister and expertise in trade matters can be an asset for both sides. President Trump is nothing if not his own man, and a respecter of power his own and that of others. The UKs position vis-a-vis the United States under such a president would be stronger, the more it can make common cause with the EU and the European members of Nato. A strong and united voice in Washington from across the Atlantic would be one way, probably the best way, to make the most of Mr Trumps promise, while reducing the peril. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Russian troops in eastern Ukraine have captured the stronghold of Kurakhove after a monthslong battle, Russias Defense Ministry claimed Monday, adding the wrecked town to the Kremlins list of conquests in the partially occupied Donetsk region during the almost three-year war. The claim, which drew no response from Ukrainian authorities, came a day after the Russian Defense Ministry said Ukrainian forces had launched a new thrust in Russias Kursk border region. Kurakhove is a key stronghold for the Ukrainian army on the eastern front line. It has an industrial zone, a thermal power plant and a reservoir. It also sits on a highway running between eastern and southern Ukraine. Russian forces have also captured the village of Dachenske, just south of the important Ukrainian logistics hub of Pokrovsk, the Russian defence ministry said on Monday. Interfax news agency also quoted the ministry as saying Russia had repelled a Ukrainian attack on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant on Sunday, when it said drone debris fell on the roof of a training centre. Map of Dachenske: The Ukrainian air force said on Monday that it shot down two Kh-59 cruise missiles launched by Russia overnight. Of 128 drones launched, 79 drones were shot down and 49 imitator drones did not reach their targets, the air force said. The attack damaged enterprises and private residences in five Ukrainian regions without causing any casualties, the air force added. According to war trackers, Ukrainian troops launched a second day of multiple attacks on Sunday on the eastern flank of what they already control in Kursk, after partially capturing the region last August. The Institute for the Study of War, a US based think tank mapping the frontline, said Ukraine had made advances into the southern outskirts of the village of Berdin. It is to the northeast of the city of Sudzha, the most significant area held by Ukraine over the last five months. Map of Berdin: It comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said security guarantees for Kyiv to end Russias war would only be effective if the United States provides them, and that he hoped to meet U.S. President-elect Donald Trump soon after his inauguration. open image in gallery Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky speaks during a press conference after the European Council meeting at the EU ( AFP via Getty Images ) In an interview with U.S. podcaster Lex Fridman published on Sunday, Zelenskiy said Ukrainians were counting on Trump to force Moscow to end its war and that Russia would escalate in Europe if Washington were to quit the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) military alliance. Almost three years after Russias invasion, the election of Trump, who returns to the White House on Jan. 20, has sparked hope of a diplomatic resolution to stop the war, but also fears in Kyiv that a quick peace could come at a high price. Zelenskiy used the three-hour interview published on YouTube to call for Ukraines NATO membership, emphasizing his belief that a ceasefire without security guarantees for Kyiv would merely give Russia time to rearm for a new attack. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Frances former president Nicolas Sarkozy is standing trial over allegations of having received millions of euros in illegal financing from Libyas late leader Muammar Gaddafi for his successful 2007 presidential bid. In arguably the largest of Mr Sarkozys several scandals, the 69-year-old is charged with passive corruption, illegal campaign financing, concealment of embezzlement of public funds and criminal association. Investigators allege he made a corrupt pact with the Libyan government. At issue is a murky affair alleged to involve Libyan spies, a convicted terrorist, arms dealers and allegations Gaddafi provided to the Sarkozy campaign with millions of euros shipped to Paris in suitcases. Mr Sarkozys lawyer said the case against the former president was a fabrication and that there had been no Libyan financing of the campaign. After 10 years of investigation, with an unprecedented deployment of resources, wiretaps, judges travelling abroad, all over the world, there is obviously no trace of financing, no transfer, no payment, not even an amount for the alleged financing, Mr Sarkozs lawyer, Christophe Ingrain said. The former president, who served between 2007 and 2012, could face up to 10 years in prison and 375,000 euros (311,000) in fines. Mr Sarkozy said nothing on his way into court, but has denied any wrongdoing. open image in gallery Sarkozy was one of the first western leaders to support military intervention against Gaddafis government in 2011 ( AFP/Getty ) Known as the Libyan case, the trial involves 11 other defendants including three former ministers. Mr Ingrain, said there is no Libyan financing of the campaign, which he won with 53 per cent of the vote to begin his five-year presidency. Financial prosecutors say that in 2005, Mr Sarkozy, then Frances interior minister, brokered a deal with Gaddafi, to obtain campaign financing in exchange for supporting the government on the international scene where it was isolated. In 2011, Mr Sarkozy put France at the forefront of Nato-led airstrikes against Gaddafis troops that helped rebel fighters topple his regime. Gaddafi was captured in October 2011 and killed. That year, a son of Gaddafis Saif-al-Islam Gaddafi claimed to Euronews the Libyan state had donated up to 50m to his campaign. Mr Sarkozy had to repay Libya the money he took for his election campaign, he said. open image in gallery Sarkozy and his lawyer arrive in a Paris courtroom for a 2020 court case ( AP ) In 2012, French investigative website Mediapart published what it said was a note from Libyan intelligence services dated December 2006 that mentioned Gaddafis deal to help finance Mr Sarkozys presidential bid with millions of euros. But the former French president described the document as a blatant fake and filed complaints for forgery, concealment, and spreading false news. The official cost for his 2007 campaign was 20m. Investigative judges launched a probe in 2013. open image in gallery Sarkozys political adviser Claude Gueant (right), seen here in May 2007, is also on trial ( AFP/Getty ) The convoluted case, linked to nine other legal proceedings, and for which investigators sent cooperation requests to more than 21 foreign countries to track the alleged funding through various middlemen and companies, reaches court more than a decade later. Among the 12 others facing trial in the case are Mr Sarkozys former right-hand man Claude Gueant, former interior minister Brice Hortefeux and his then-head of campaign financing Eric Woerth all three were present in court on Monday. In December, Frances highest court upheld Mr Sarkozys conviction for corruption and influence peddling to obtain favours from a judge. He has been ordered to wear an electronic bracelet for a year instead of going to jail, a first for a French former head of state. In another case, Mr Sarkozy was found guilty of concealing illegal campaign spending, and a challenge is pending. He denies the charges. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Ukraine has launched a multi-pronged attack in the Russian border region of Kursk as it looks to ensure a strong negotiation position ahead of US president-elect Donald Trumps return to the White House, off the back of a promise to end the war. Ukrainian forces continued a counterattack in the Russian border region of Kursk on Monday, attacking on both the eastern and western flanks. Senior Ukrainian officials described the assaults, which began over the weekend, as good news as war trackers suggested the fighting was taking place in at least three sectors. The main thrust of the fighting appears to be concentrated towards the north east of Sudzha, the only city in Kursk controlled by the Ukrainians. Unverified footage being circulated among Russian military bloggers showed what appeared to be a column of Ukrainian military vehicles on the outskirts of the village of Berdin, several miles beyond Kyivs control prior to the counterattack. Fighting was also taking place southeast of Sudzha and near Korenevo on the other side of the area in Kursk held by Ukraine. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskys top advisor, Andriy Yermak, said these latest attacks showed that Moscow was getting what it deserved. The surprise attack seeks to reverse Ukraines decreasing hold of the region. Since Kyivs forces gained partial control of Kursk following a daring cross-border assault last August, Russian troops, aided by North Korean soldiers, have halved the territory held by Ukraine, albeit while suffering thousands of casualties. But the attack continued as the Russian defence ministry celebrated their alleged takeover of eastern Ukrainian town of Kurakhove in the Donetsk region, as well as more advances towards the key logistical city of Pokrovsk further north. The ministry said taking Kurakhove, which had held out for many weeks, would enable Moscows forces to step up the pace of their advance in Ukraines Donetsk region. It also said it had captured Dachenske, a settlement within five miles of Pokrovsk. Viktor Trehubov, spokesperson for Ukraines Khortytsia group of forces, claimed Kyivs forces were still fighting in Kurakhove, but Ukrainian monitoring group DeepState, which tracks the front line using open sources, showed most of the town under Russian control. The tradeoff for committing more troops in Kursk can cost Ukrainian land, writes Emil Kastehelmi, a military analyst who tracks the frontline in Ukraine for The Black Bird Group. The offensive in Kursk is currently continuing even in a situation where positions in Donetsk are being constantly lost. US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, however, acknowledged that Ukraines hold on Kursk could prove vital in negotiations with Vladimir Putin, overseen by Mr Trump. Speaking in the South Korean capital of Seoul, the outgoing top diplomat of Joe Bidens administration said: The positions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the Kursk region are very important, because, of course, this is what will matter for any negotiations that may take place in the coming year. It comes as French president Emmanuel Macron stressed the need for realistic discussions on territorial questions regarding the end of the war in Ukraine. In his New Years address, he called on Mr Trump, who has vowed to stop the war in Ukraine within 24 hours of returning not office, not to force an end to the war on terms favourable to Russia. There is no quick and easy solution in Ukraine, he said, adding: The new American president himself knows the United States has no chance of winning anything if Ukraine loses. The credibility of the West will be shattered if we compromise because of fatigue. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The Danish king has changed the countrys royal coat of arms to display symbols of Greenland and the Faroe Islands more prominently in an apparent rebuke to Donald Trump. King Frederik has made a clear show of his intention to retain the territory within the kingdom of Denmark and so continue to control its foreign and security policy after US president-elect Donald Trump expressed his desire to buy Greenland for the US. Previous royal coats of arms have shown three crowns, a representation of the Kalmar Union between Denmark, Norway and Sweden. In the new version, the crowns have been replaced by a polar bear and ram, which symbolise Greenland and the Faroe Islands, in what appears to be a rebuke of Mr Trumps desires to take control of the former. Previously, the ram and the polar bear have occupied smaller slots. King Frederik came to power in January 2024 ( EPA ) The royal household said the three crowns had been removed as it is no longer relevant. In his first speech of 2025, King Frederik said: We are all united and each of us committed for the kingdom of Denmark. From the Danish minority in South Schleswig which is even situated outside the kingdom and all the way to Greenland. We belong together. It marks the fourth time since 1819 that the royal arms has been changed, the previous tweaks coming in 1903, 1948 and 1972. The change comes amid a row involving Mr Trump, over Greenland and its relations with Denmark. Mr Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform that US ownership and control of Greenland is an absolute necessity. But he was rebuked by the territorys prime minister Mute Egede, who said in a statement in late December: Greenland is ours. We are not for sale and will never be for sale. We must not lose our long struggle for freedom. Mr Trump is not the first US president to express a desire to buy Greenland, with the first push to purchase the territory coming in 1867 from the then-secretary of state, William Seward. The territory has been politically and culturally tied to Denmark for over a century, and the population of Greenland has never shown a serious desire to join the US - despite a limited American military presence on the island, which hosts one of its vital early-warning missile defense systems. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Ukraine has launched a fresh counterattack in the Russian border region of Kursk as it looks to gain the most territory it can ahead of possible peace negotiations with US president-elect Donald Trump saying he wants to end the war as soon as possible. The attack started over the weekend, with unverified footage circulated by Russian military bloggers showing a column of Ukrainian tanks and armoured personnel carriers heading towards the village of Berdin, a small area outside of what Ukraine currently controls in Kursk. Kyivs military has not officially acknowledged a fresh offensive, months after an initial incursion that caught Russia off guard and allowed Ukraine to capture a swathe of Russian territory in the region. The head of the Ukrainian presidential office, Andriy Yermak, said: Kursk region, good news, Russia is getting what it deserves. Andrii Kovalenko, the head of the Ukrainian Centre for Countering Disinformation, an official body, said Ukrainian forces had launched surprise attacks against Russian forces in several locations across Kursk. Russian military bloggers, who are under the control of the Kremlin but sometimes speak more openly about the difficulties facing Moscows troops, suggested on the Telegram messenger app that some of their forces were worried about the assault. The morning in the Kursk region is starting off worryingly again. It is obvious that yesterdays failure will not stop the enemy and he will try to impose his will on us again today, wrote one blogger, Yuri Podolyaka. The Institute for the Study of War (ISW), a US-based think tank that maps the frontline, said Ukraine had made advances into the southern outskirts of Berdin. It is to the northeast of the city of Sudzha, the most significant area held by Ukraine since the start of the first assault five months ago. The ISW added that Ukrainian forces appeared to be attacking in at least three areas, including towards Berdin. A second attack on the right flank appears to be directed towards the village of Pushkarnoye, east of Sudzha, while the third assault seems to be on the either side of the Ukrainian-held area, around Korenevo on the western flank. The reports come a day after Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said in his nightly address on Saturday that Russian and North Korean forces had suffered significant losses in a battle for the village of Makhnovka, on the southeastern outskirts of Sudzha. He said they had suffered hundreds of casualties, citing information from the Ukrainian military chief, General Oleksandr Syrskyi. Other Russian military bloggers suggested the attacks were being conducted with hundreds of Ukrainian troops in a heavily mechanised assault. They speculated that these attacks could be attempts to divert Russian forces, possibly from Moscows creeping advance in the eastern Ukrainian region of Donetsk. Russias defence ministry claimed control over the town of Kurakhove in Donetsk on Monday, after months of heavy fighting. Russia controls about a fifth of Ukraine after nearly three years of war, but Ukraines success in seizing and retaining a slice of Russian territory in Kursk could boost its negotiating position as both sides prepare for possible peace talks this year. Both have been striving to improve their battlefield positions before Mr Trump is sworn in on 20 January. Mr Trump has repeatedly said he will bring a quick end to the war, within 24 hours, without saying how. Russian forces, with the help of around 11,000 North Korean troops, have been successfully shrinking Ukraines partial hold on the Kursk region since Kyiv launched the daring cross-border assault on 6 August last year. US secretary of state Antony Blinken described Ukraines partial control over the Russian border region as key to any possible future negotiations with Russia during a visit to South Korea over the weekend. The positions of the armed forces of Ukraine in the Kursk region are very important, because, of course, this is what will matter for any negotiations that may take place in the coming year, he said. Sign up to our free weekly IndyTech newsletter delivered straight to your inbox Sign up to our free IndyTech newsletter Sign up to our free IndyTech newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Florida and South Carolina have seen a massive surge in VPN use since new laws were introduced to prevent people from visiting adult websites without government-approved ID. Online searches for free VPN rose more than 400 per cent in both states after the restrictions came into force at the start of the year, according to Google Trends, while researchers from vpnMentor noted a 1,150 per cent spike in demand in Florida. Virtual private networks (VPNs), which allow users to bypass geo restrictions by making it appear that their device is in a different location, have seen a significant increase in use since parts of the US began implementing age-verification mandates in 2023. A VPN allows users to mask their IP addresses and encrypt their internet traffic, providing an added layer of privacy and security while browsing online, vpnMentor wrote in a blog post detailing the trend. Floridas new law on pornographic websites and the consequent rise of VPN usage emphasize the intricate interplay between technology, privacy, and regulatory frameworks. With laws pertaining to online activities constantly changing, it is imperative for users and website operators alike to remain knowledgeable about regulations and ensure compliance. Porn restrictions have now been introduced across 17 states in the US, with Florida and South Carolina enforcing the latest age verification laws on 1 January. Georgia is also set to implement new laws preventing under 18s from visiting adult websites from July 2025. Pornhub and other popular adult websites have blocked access to their sites in most of the states in response to the laws, claiming that they violate user privacy and safety. Pornhub continues to operate in Louisiana, despite age restriction laws being implemented last year that require visitors to provide state-approved identification. The site has since reported an 80 per cent drop in traffic in that state. A spokesperson for Pornhubs parent company Aylo, which also owns RedTube and YouPorn, told The Independent that it was unable to share data relating to VPN use, but acknowledged that users were finding methods to evade the restrictions. Aylo has publicly supported age verification of users for years, but we believe that any law to this effect must preserve user safety and privacy, and must effectively protect children from accessing content intended for adults, the spokesperson said. Unfortunately, the way many jurisdictions worldwide have chosen to implement age verification is ineffective, haphazard, and dangerous... The best solution to make the internet safer, preserve user privacy, and prevent children from accessing adult content is performing age verification at the source: on the device. The technology to accomplish this exists today. What is required is the political and social will to make it happen. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Get Simon Calders Travel email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A Spanish tourist was killed by an elephant she was bathing at a sanctuary in southern Thailand, police said on Monday. Blanca Ojanguren Garcia, 22, a student from Valladolid, was visiting the island of Yao Yai with her boyfriend on Friday when she was attacked by the elephant. The couple were washing one of the animals at the Koh Yao Elephant Care Centre when she was gored, causing an injury from which she later died. The elephant likely grew stressed or panicked from interacting with visitors outside its ecosystem, experts told local reporters. Spains foreign ministry and its embassy in Bangkok confirmed Garcias death. "We can confirm the tragic death in an accident of a Spanish tourist, the embassy said in a statement. The Spanish consulate in Bangkok is in contact with the victims relatives and offering all the necessary consular assistance, as is normal in these types of circumstances. A mother elephant with newborn twins in Ayutthaya, Thailand ( AP ) Garcia studied at the University of Navarra but was living in Taiwan under an Erasmus academic exchange programme. She had travelled to Thailand as a tourist with her partner, an infantry cadet from Oviedo in Spain, according to The Telegraph. She was taking part in an elephant bathing session, a popular tourist activity in Thailand, which allows visitors to interact with wildlife. The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation estimates that there are over 4,000 wild elephants in the country, living in sanctuaries, reserves and national parks. The department has recorded at least 227 deaths from elephant attacks over the last 12 years, with 39 fatalities in 2024 alone. World Animal Protection estimates that around 2,800 elephants in Thailand are held for tourism purposes. The charity has raised concerns over the treatment of such elephants, which are often kept in isolation, chained and made to perform tricks and other activities. It has alleged that the trainers often use methods involving hitting and lashing of the elephants. The Koh Yao Elephant Care Centre states on its website that it is committed to "providing responsible and ethical interactions with elephants". It claims it does not "control" or "use a hook on our elephants". The Independent has reached out to the centre for a comment. In December, a 49-year-old woman was killed while taking a walk at the Phu Luang Wildlife Research Station in Loei. The park was temporarily closed to ensure the safety of visitors but has since been opened. Have you ever gone back over your new years resolutions from years ago and just thought, What was I thinking? Over the last year, it seems that Europes biggest oil corporations did just that. Back in 2020, Larry Fink started the year with his traditional capitalist flex. As the CEO of the worlds largest investor, Blackrock, he sent a 2,000-word letter to CEOs of the worlds biggest companies outlining what he wanted to see in the world and what was going to determine where his company put their money. In the letter, he said that climate change has become a defining factor in companies long-term prospects. These words ushered in a super-spreading frenzy of sustainability commitments that extended across companies like Delta Air Lines, Ford and even Europes biggest oil companies such as BP, Shell and Equinor. Soon after, BP announced it was planning to cut its oil and gas production by 40 per cent and the emissions of its products by up to 40 per cent as well by 2030. It also planned to be a net zero company by 2050, which is just what the climate doctor ordered. That was all ushered in by former CEO Bernard Looney. At the same time, Shell committed itself to massive renewable energy investments, in the hope of becoming the worlds largest electricity company. And all was going well for these companies. In the run-off of the energy crisis, BP reported its annual profit of $28bn in 2022, the biggest in the companys 114-year history. That same year, Shell similarly broke records, with an annual profit of $40bn. However, only 12 months after reporting some of the biggest profit margins in the history of money, sustainability concerns have been dropped in a greed-addicted scramble to keep up with US and Middle Eastern competitors. Since 2020, US oil giants Chevron and Exxon have shown nowhere near the same interest in diversifying their businesses or building up their climate credentials, and the market has rewarded them. These companies have seen their share prices increase by 53 per cent and 22 per cent respectively over the last five years, while BP has seen double-digit falls and Shell was in the red last year, regardless of record profit margins. As a result, when BPs new CEO stepped in late in 2023, he quickly scrapped the companys industry-leading targets, and last year announced plans to sell off its major wind energy investments in Japan and the US. It has transitioned from a company promising to phase down production to a company planning to invest $8bn more in new oil and gas expansions by 2030. Suppliers are planning to flood the market seemingly right up until the sea level rise literally inundates many of the worlds major oil ports Similarly, Shell has swapped its investments in offshore wind power for gas, with plans to increase its LNG business by 20-30 per cent by 2030. In its latest transition strategy, Shells chair Sir Andrew Mackenzie has shifted the companys goal from electricity to biofuels, the goal being to remain one of the worlds largest blenders and distributors of biofuels. Unfortunately, these shifts reflect an industry that is now just about competing to scrape the bottom of the shareholder buy-back barrel and has lost even the vaguest sense of curiosity about any short-term climate transition. In the background of Cop29, Brazils state-owned Petrobras announced plans to spend close to $8bn to increase its oil and gas production by 14 per cent over the next four years, while Donald Trump spent the entire US election campaign arguing that he alone would get America producing more energy, when the reality that the US is now producing more oil every day than any country has, ever. All of these increases meant that hardly anyone was surprised by the IEAs latest industry prediction that the worlds biggest oil producers look set to drill way more oil over the next few years than the world even needs, or wants. In June, well before Trumps election, the IEA was already predicting that planned production increases in the US and Brazil would have a massive impact on global oil production by 2030, and outpace global consumption by as much as eight million barrels of oil per day. Add on Trumps plans to drill baby, drill since then, and who knows just how high this market distortion could become, with the suppliers planning to flood the market seemingly right up until the sea level rise literally inundates many of the worlds major oil ports. There is however one major thorn in big oils billionaire side. The growth of electric vehicles is now so rapid that it is beginning to cut into oil demand, especially in China. In the worlds biggest car market, electric vehicles now regularly represent more than half of all cars sold each month, and oil demand last year may have dropped to 3.6 per cent lower than in pre-Covid levels. Globally, the rise of EVs is now the single biggest driver of the reduction in oil consumption, according to BP. By 2030, even conservative estimates project that the global rollout of electric vehicles could reduce oil demand by over six million barrels of oil per day. To put it in perspective, thats relatively close to the current oil demand of Japan and India combined. But instead of getting on board the global electricity transformation, Big Oil is having none of it, and seems to have well and truly locked the doors on its seaside bulletproof bunkers. In 2024 alone, Big Oil not only backed away from its limited climate resolutions, it also shifted billions out of renewables, pushed hard against plastics bans, and is likely doing all it can to undermine plans to limit ICE (internal combustion engine) cars in the near future. Its resolutions for 2025 now seem to be focused on ignoring the rapid electricity transition happening right in front of it and drilling far more oil than the world now wants, and far more than any of us can afford. It now seems clear to me that Elon Musks political judgement cannot be trusted. His acquisition of Twitter was not for altruistic ideals. He has constantly denigrated the mainstream media as being hugely biased and untrustworthy. However, as Nigel Farage is suddenly realising (Farage and Musk in war of words after billionaire says Reform leader should quit, Monday 6 January), Musk appears prone to use his huge media platform to launch unprovoked attacks seemingly without bothering to acquaint himself with relevant facts. Id imagine it is hugely difficult for anyone who finds themselves at the top of any particular tree to resist the allure of omnipotence that the trappings of power appear to bestow upon them. Nigel Plevin Ilminster, Somerset There are limits to freedom of speech Musks assertion that Tommy Robinson was imprisoned for exposing grooming gangs is demonstrably false (Elon Musk demands Tommy Robinson be freed from prison in fresh conspiracy claims against Keir Starmer, Thursday 2 January). Robinson was jailed for contempt of court, a crime that undermines the integrity of the judicial system, which Musk himself claims to value. This misuse of influence mirrors global concerns about Musks social media platform, X. He presents it as a bastion of free speech yet it increasingly resembles an echo chamber for his personal views, spreading inflammatory rhetoric and stoking division. The European Union recently identified X as a major source of misinformation, and Brazils Supreme Court banned the platform over its failure to tackle hate speech and fake news. Musk must now be held accountable for the harm his reckless commentary is causing. Malik Fraz Ahmad Bradford What a snub Musks foray into the UKs political discourse is nothing short of insulting (Should Starmer worry about Elon Musks attacks on his government?, Sunday 5 January). For this arrogant, self-serving bully to vent untruths about the plight of vulnerable children is beyond shameful. The UK needs a new special relationship with Donald Trumps first buddy one based on mistrust. Dave Hill Waterlooville, Hampshire How to beat a bully Musk has no business interfering in British politics (Starmer attacks Musk for spreading lies and misinformation over grooming gangs, Monday 6 January). Americans would no doubt react strongly if, for example, politicians on this side of the Atlantic criticised the USs gun obsession, or how people needing medical care are hung out to dry if they dont have health insurance. Musk is a disruptor, and his behaviour is straight out of the bullys playbook. The best response is no response. Charles Wood Birmingham Not wanted here In light of the pretty nasty remarks made about our country by the archetypal Bond villain, I suggest we declare Musk an undesirable alien, a serious threat to our national security and refuse him right of entry forthwith. Tony Tugnutt Waldershare, Kent Pensioners should be grateful I was saddened to read of the poor condition Becky Bowdens mum is enduring this winter (My elderly mother cant afford heating she needs the winter fuel allowance, Sunday 5 January). But from her description, Im sure she would be eligible for pension credit, which would include the winter fuel allowance and also a free TV licence. Governments of all persuasions have been very considerate to pensioners over the years, with the triple lock an example. Many pensioners (and Im one) in my area take several holidays a year, some abroad and some on cruises. Im sure none of these need help from the taxpayer to fund heating. I think the government was right to rein in and means-test these payments, but their explanation of the reasoning has been pathetic. Jonathan Newcombe Huddersfield, West Yorkshire End-of-life scare On reading Becky Bowdens article highlighting her mothers worries about heating her home, it suddenly occurred to me that the cancelling of the heating allowance might be part of a cunning plan to reduce the number of vulnerable pensioners of non-working age As an 83-year-old suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, among other things, I am required to have a daily injection and take five tablets, seven at weekends. Yet I am one of those pensioners whose income, caused by the small allowance I get for doing my civic duty as a parish councillor, rules me out of claiming pension credit. Reducing the number of those consuming expensive drugs supplied by the NHS would go a long way towards solving this governments financial problems. Bob Sampson Hassocks, West Sussex For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The UK experienced its coldest January night in 15 years after a hamlet in northern Scotland dropped to minus 18.7C on Friday. Altnaharra, which is in the most northern region of the Highlands, recorded minus 18.7C on Friday night, the Met Office said. It is the coldest January overnight temperature since 2010, when temperatures dropped below minus 15C several times at locations across the UK, including minus 22.3C on January 8 in Altnaharra. open image in gallery (PA Graphics) ( PA Graphics ) Forecasters said they are not expecting temperatures in the Sutherland hamlet to fall below minus 18C on Friday but there is a very small probability it could reach 19C. Altnaharra reached minus 14.5C on Thursday night. Temperatures for large parts of the UK are set to fall again as the cold weather continues. open image in gallery A woman walking through the snow in Saddleworth, England ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) Met Office meteorologist Alex Deakin said: Friday night into Saturday morning may well be the nadir of this current cold spell. Towns and cities in Scotland could see minus 2C to minus 5C and the Highlands may reach minus 14C or minus 15C. Higher ground in England such as the Pennines could hit minus 11C or minus 12C while the coldest city in England is expected to be Birmingham, which may reach minus 4C. The average low in northern Scotland for this time of year is about 0.3C, while for England, overnight lows are around 1.5C to 1.6C. open image in gallery Temperatures will continue to fall over the coming days, with the mercury potentially reaching minus 20C in northern parts of the UK on Friday night (James Manning/PA) ( PA Wire ) Met Office meteorologist Zoe Hutin said: Certainly a cold night to come, especially for those beneath clear skies in the east and the north and in rural spots as well. Cloud coverage is keeping the temperatures from falling as low but it will still be chilly, Ms Hutin said. Snow may fall overnight in hills of the south-west and parts of Northern Ireland but not to the same level as the past 10 days. open image in gallery (PA Graphics) ( PA Graphics ) Saturday is forecast to be cold too, and Ms Hutin said: Weve still got tonight to come, and tomorrow night could also be chilly as well. Temperatures for tomorrow night, it will be mainly eastern parts that see temperatures dropping widely below freezing, so East Anglia, the north-east of England, northern and eastern Scotland as well. So another chilly night to come on Saturday, but then as we go into Sunday and into Monday, then we can start to expect temperatures to recover somewhat. I wont rule out the risk of seeing something around or just below freezing again on Sunday night into Monday, but it wont be quite so dramatic as the temperatures that were going to experience as we go overnight tonight. Looking ahead to next week, she said: Were saying its getting milder but by no stretch does that mean (temperatures) are going to be above average it just will feel comparatively much more pleasant than it is at the moment. The UK has experienced a particularly long cold spell, she said, adding: It has been getting progressively colder each night this week, whereas looking at previous years, weve had maybe two or three days where things have been particularly cold. Partner content Showcase, billed as Irelands Creative Expo, is one of the countrys largest annual trade fairs, and is hosted in the RDS from January 19-21. Renowned globally for quality craftsmanship, this years Showcase will mark 50 years of showcasing Irish designs and creativity to the world. This landmark trade-only event has become a must-attend for buyers from right around the world. As well as having the opportunity to view the products in-person, the buyers in attendance also get the unique opportunity to meet the participants and exhibitors the innovative creators and designers behind the crafts on display. Established in 1975 by the Design & Crafts Council Ireland (DCCI), Showcase began as the National Crafts Fair, but has grown significantly in both size and importance, and is now delivered with support from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Enterprise Ireland and the Local Enterprise Offices. With almost 400 exhibitors participating in Showcase 2025, including almost 90 new brands, Showcase is a unique platform as it celebrates Irish creativity, design, and craftsmanship, and supports Irish-owned start-ups and businesses in this sector as they continue to grow and embrace new trends. Its a fantastic opportunity to bring products to international markets Enterprise Ireland will again host the International Buyers Hub at the RDS. Last year, Enterprise Ireland invited 90 overseas buyers to Showcase, and they represented retail chains, department stores, online shopping channels and marketplaces. Buyers attending this year with Enterprise Ireland will be able to explore all the Irish companies that are exhibiting and will have the opportunity to meet many of the Enterprise Ireland supported companies which will be exhibiting. It shows items from crafts to fashion This year, there will be more than 30 Enterprise Ireland firms at Showcase, including business across fashion and apparel, health and beauty, and home, gift and jewellery. Some of these companies include Magees, Aran Woollen Mills, The Handmade Soap Company, Brooke and Shoals, Nicholas Mosse and Shanore Jewellery. According to DCCIs independent research, orders generated by buyers to the event since 2015 have grown at an average rate of 18pc year-on-year. DCCI also found that from analysis of Showcase 2024 it was estimated that the purchasing plans, as reported by visitors to the event, exceeded 20.5m. Mary Blanchfield, the Design & Crafts Council interim CEO, said this year they expect to welcome 4,000 visitors. Its a fantastic opportunity for businesses to bring their products to domestic and international markets, to demonstrate the unique offering that has gained the Irish craft and design sector such an enviable global reputation and delivers a significant contribution to Brand Ireland DCCI, she said. Enterprise Ireland is committed to supporting Irish-owned companies to start, grow and scale, and to achieve their global ambition. And events like Showcase play an important role in this, particularly for Irish-owned consumer brands. Enterprise Ireland supports clients to meet new customers and build on existing relationships at trade events like Showcase throughout the year, as they enable entrepreneurs and companies to reach new audiences, both at home and abroad. Karen Conroy is the senior development adviser for retail, consumer & online at EI The pharmaceutical firm MSD is buying out the WuXi Vaccines manufacturing plant in Dundalk, in a 500m deal. The American company says that in addition to the 150 jobs at the Dundalk facility, it is planning to add about another 1,000 posts over the coming year. Its investment in Ireland amounts to 3bn over the last three years. MSD and WuXi will now begin an official handover process which aims to be completed in the first half of 2025, a press announcement stated. MSD Ireland is looking ahead to significant growth across its network, and, including this acquisition, is planning to add approximately 1,000 jobs across its eight locations in counties Carlow, Cork, Dublin, Louth, Meath and Tipperary. While the announcement is being made exactly two weeks before the inauguration of Donald Trump as US president, the deal has been in planning for at least five months and had been speculated about online. The Dundalk plant is a 15,520sqm three-storey vaccine manufacturing facility, which includes quality control labs, and currently employs about 200 professionals. MSD and WuXi have collaborated on the site since 2019 on a vaccine-supply contract. WuXi has a separate biologics facilities at the site which will continue to operate. Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland, said: This acquisition and accompanying 150 new roles announcement by MSD Ireland is a huge testament to Irelands position as a global leader in the pharmaceutical value chain, continuously attracting strategically innovative investments to our shores. "Our partnership with MSD Ireland spans nearly 50 years, and its exciting to see the company continue to both deepen and broaden its roots all across the country, expanding to its new location in Dundalk. Sanat Chattopadhyay, president of MSDs manufacturing division, said: MSDs manufacturing footprint in Ireland is unparalleled, and I am proud to oversee its continuous expansion, always looking to advance the future of health through innovation and acceleration in the service of people and patients around the world. "The acquisition of this WuXi site in Dundalk will give us the opportunity to do just that: deliver for people and patients faster, looking at the health challenges of today and tomorrow. It has been speculated that WuXi Biologics might consider selling some of its European production facilities, and the IDA-backed company has reportedly been working with advisers to assess the level of interest in those plants, including two in Germany. WuXi management fears they may no longer be needed, as the Chinese drugmaker is facing restrictions in America, where the proposed Biosecure Act would ban US companies that have government contracts from using its services after 2032. New business in Europe has dried up as a result, with biopharma groups that have US federal contracts said to be more reluctant to use WuXi. Revenues from European customers fell 27pc in the first six months of last year to $260m (235m). WuXis business model is based around the contract development and manufacturing of biologics for some of the worlds leading pharma companies, including AbbVie and Pfizer. Irish actor Colin Farrell won his third Golden Globe this morning for playing the Batman villain The Penguin in an HBO series of the same name. The Dubliner, speaking after landing the award in Beverly Hills in the early hours of the morning, said he does not feel part of the pantheon of comic book villains despite joining Joaquin Phoenix and Heath Ledger in winning a Golden Globe Award. Farrells previous Golden Globe wins were for Irish black comedy films, In Bruges and The Banshees Of Inisherin, which were both directed by Martin McDonagh. Recalling the three hours it took each day to fit him with prosthetics to make him the bloated villain in his latest film, he said: In the morning, I drank black coffee, listened to 80s music, and I became a canvas for that teams brilliance. Farrell also said: Thank you for employing me. And yeah, I guess its prosthetics from here on out. He follows in the footsteps of Phoenix who won in 2020 for his role in The Joker and late actor Ledger who won in 2009 for The Dark Knight. Colin Farrell in a scene from the series The Penguin (HBO via AP) In the winners room, Farrell said the two actors are for my money, the most extraordinary, talented and gifted and just brilliant artists in film that Ive ever had the fortune to observe and be affected by. What Heath did in Chris Nolans Dark Knight was extraordinary, and will live on for future generations and what Joaquin did with The Joker was as exemplified by all the awards that he won and the Oscar stuff it was extraordinary. So to have your name thrown into, just uttered in the same sentence, as those performances honestly, its lovely, but I still approach it all more from just a fan of it all. Colin Farrell poses with his award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Limited Series. REUTERS/Mario Anzuoni I dont feel like Im part of that pantheon, I dont think Ill go home tonight thinking Im part of that pantheon. During his on-stage speech, Farrell celebrated his fellow nominees including Andrew Scott. The actor beat Richard Gadd for dark comedy Baby Reindeer, Ewan McGregor for Russian-set historical comedy A Gentleman In Moscow, and Scott for the remake of Ripley on Netflix to best performance by a male actor in a limited or anthology series or TV film. He joked that he had no one to thank and did it all by myself. Andrew Scott was nominated for Ripley (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) To Scott, he recalled their first movie together, Drinking Crude, and said: (Andrew) who I did my first film with 25, 30 years ago. You cant even find it on Betamax. It doesnt exist. But we go back that far. He added to Scottish actor Gadd, whose experience of stalking and sexual assault inspired the Netflix hit series Baby Reindeer, that you broke my heart with your work this year. Demi Moore gave an impassioned speech about worth as she won her first acting award at the Golden Globes in a ceremony which also saw The Brutalist and Emilia Perez triumph. Moore, 62, said she was at kind of a low point during her acceptance speech as she scooped the best actress in a motion picture musical or comedy gong for her role in horror The Substance. Demi Moores daughters posted a video on social media showing their reaction to her first Golden Globes win (Chris Pizzello/PA) The actress, whose win likely makes her a frontrunner for the Oscars, beat the likes of Wicked star Cynthia Erivo, Nightbitchs Amy Adams and Challengers actress Zendaya to take home the award. Immigration story The Brutalist was one of the big film winners of the night, taking home several major awards including gongs for actor Adrien Brody and director Brady Corbet. Brody scored his first Golden Globe for best male actor in a motion picture drama win for the role as a Hungarian architect attempting to build a life in the US after the Second World War. Accepting the award on stage he said: The characters journey is very reminiscent of my mothers and my ancestral journey of fleeing the horrors of war and coming to this great country, and I owe so much to my mother and my grandparents for their sacrifice". Operatic musical Emilia Perez about a Mexican drug lord who changes gender was the big film winner of the night with four gongs, among them best motion picture for a musical or comedy. Demi Moores daughters posted a video on social media showing their reaction to her first Golden Globes win (Chris Pizzello/PA) Cast member Zoe Saldana fended off competition from her co-star Selena Gomez and Wicked actress Ariana Grande to win her first Golden Globe for her supporting role in the Jacques Audiard-directed film. The Netflix title also won best original song for El Mal, and the category for best non-English language film. During an emotional speech Moore, 62, whose character confronts the harsh reality of ageing in Hollywood in the body horror The Substance, said: Thirty years ago, I had a producer tell me that I was a popcorn actress and at that time, I made that mean that this wasnt something that I was allowed to have, that I could do movies that were successful, that made a lot of money, but that I couldnt be acknowledged. I bought in, and I believed that, and that corroded me over time, to the point where I thought a few years ago that maybe this was it, maybe I was complete. Ive done what I was supposed to do. And as I was at kind of a low point, I had this magical, bold, courageous, out-of-the-box, absolutely bonkers script come across my desk called The Substance, and the universe told me that youre not done. The annual ceremony, held in Beverly Hills, was dominated by first-time winners, including film gongs for A Different Mans Sebastian Stan, Im Still Heres Fernanda Torres, and in the TV categories, Shogun stars Anna Sawai, Hiroyuki Sanada and Tadanobu Asano. Room to Improve review: Foolish to expect something new from cosy familiarity of 17-year show RTEs Room to Improve formula only questioned once when Mayo woman took a stand against architect Dermot Bannon Architect Dermot Bannon brought Karen Mulligan's dream house to life in RTE's 'Room to Improve' Chris Wasser Mon 6 Jan 2025 at 03:30 The unthinkable happened on Room to Improve this week. Dermot Bannon, TVs chattiest architect, lost an argument with a client. Not just any argument, mind, but an argument about timber joists. This is a big deal. Farmers are being urged to prioritise safety this week with freezing conditions expected to last until Thursday in many parts of the country. The weather is expected to turn bitterly cold tonight, with severe frost and temperatures dropping to -8 in places. Areas of freezing fog will develop in some areas leading to hazardous travelling conditions. Tomorrow, Wednesday, is expected to remain very cold with areas of ice and freezing fog lingering in many areas throughout the day, with night expected to be bitterly cold as widespread frost, ice and freezing fog continue. Some sleet and snow showers are forecast along northern and northwestern coastal areas with lowest temperatures of -7 to -2 degrees and the Road Safety Authority has warned that even after weather warnings are lifted or lowered, roads in many areas will remain treacherous for days due to a dangerous combination of rain, sleet, snow, ice, and extremely low temperatures. The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue together with Minister of State with special responsibility for Farm Safety, Martin Heydon urged farmers to prioritise safety during the current cold spell of weather. Minister McConalogue said: "I am urging all farmers, fishers and everyone in rural areas to be extra careful during the current cold spell of weather. While farmers always make every effort to look after livestock during poor weather, they must prioritise their own safety and the safety of those working and living in rural communities. He said livestock are resilient during cold weather once they have access to adequate feed and shelter, but it is important that farmers have measures in place to ensure outwintered and housed livestock have access to fresh water during freezing conditions. "Supplies of drinking water should be checked daily, and surface ice broken on troughs twice per day. It is important that taps are not left running to prevent freezing. Where needed, farmers should check that reserve storage tanks are full of fresh water. Herding out-wintered livestock should be carried out during daylight hours." Farmers are also advised to mind their own health and wellbeing and taking precautions to avoid icy patches in farmyards. Farmers should avoid working at height during frosty weather. Roof repairs should only be carried out when weather conditions are suitable and using the appropriate equipment. Minister Heydon said: Farmers must always prioritise safety. I urge all farmers to assess the risks as they go about their work. It is only by identifying the risks in advance that steps can be taken to ensure jobs can be completed safely. The mobile phone is an essential safety tool and farmers should always keep it with them, particularly when working away from the farmyard." Those in rural communities are also being urged to check on elderly neighbours and those living alone, while anyone with animal welfare issues connected with severe weather, are asked to keep in touch with your agricultural advisor or contact the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine Animal Welfare Helpline on phone: 01 607 2379. A friend says its like getting a new suit: the rise of Brotox and cosmetic tweakments for men The wives who used to call Gay Byrne to complain about their husbands hygiene habits would never have imagined Irish men signing up for salmon sperm injections and facelifts Personal trainer Conor Murray. Photo: Philip Magowan / Press Eye Kirsty Blake Knox Mon 6 Jan 2025 at 12:40 There used to be a stereotype that Irish men left much to be desired when it came to cosmetic maintenance. Many of those who received the payments have not left politics Another 1.5m in golden handshakes have been paid to former councillors who left local authority seats, despite many of them failing to quit politics. A recent Sunday Independent investigation revealed how 9.5m in payments had been made to politicians over the last five years after they stepped away from councils. However, details of further payments made under the council gratuity scheme designed to help local politicians adjust to life after retiring from councils have recently been revealed. They show gratuity payments made over the last five years totalled more than 11m. Junior Minister Niall Collins is among those to benefit from the recently disclosed payments alongside other high profile TDs and a senator from the last Seanad. Mr Collins is one of three ministers in the outgoing government who were paid a gratuity since 2020. Limerick City and County Council (LCCC) records show he was paid 10,381 in 2021. He served on the local council for almost three years before he was elected to the Dail in 2007. Politicians who leave councils after their 50th birthday qualify for an immediate council gratuity, regardless of whether they retire or progress their political careers in Leinster House or the European Parliament. This has led to questions about how the council gratuities scheme is applied to long-serving representatives who rise from local to national politics. Those aged under 50 must wait for the payments which are subject to tax. Details of payments in five county councils in Carlow, Cork, Limerick, Meath and South Dublin only emerged in recent weeks. Payments made by a majority of the countrys local authorities were published in November. Figures from LCCC show a 603,429 outlay on gratuities between 2019 and the end of last year. This includes 401,557 in payments to councillors who vacated seats at the most recent local elections, and another 64,288 which has been preserved for former councillors who have not yet reached 50. Independent Ireland TD Richard ODonoghue was paid a 19,756 gratuity in 2022. He had been a councillor for more than five years before he was elected to the Dail in 2020. Four other former Limerick councillors also received payments between the 2019 and 2024 local elections. Meath County Council made payments totalling 120,889 to former councillors during the same period. Sinn Fein TD Johnny Guirke, who was recently re-elected in Meath West, was paid a 19,789 gratuity after he first secured a Dail seat in 2020. Sharon Keogan, who was a senator in the last Seanad, received a 20,310 gratuity after leaving her council seat. Another 108,322 was paid to former councillors who vacated their seats in Meath last year. Carlow County Council said it made payments totalling 209,532 to former councillors over the last five years. Cork County Council recently confirmed additional payments of 364,444 to some of its former councillors, bringing its total outlay over the last five years to 866,458. South Dublin County Council last month disclosed recent payments worth 171,619, bringing its total gratuity outlay over the last five years to 324,017. In November it was revealed Housing Minister Darragh OBrien, Junior Minister Malcolm Noonan, who lost his seat at the recent election, and other high-profile former politicians including former tanaiste Simon Coveney, former mental health minister Jim Daly, former trade minister Joe Costello and former European Affairs minister Dara Murphy were among those to recently receive gratuities. Irish Ambassador to France Niall Burgess is expected to attend the funeral in Paris today of the father of murdered Sophie Toscan du Plantier. Requiem mass for Georges Bouniol, who was 98 when he died last week, takes place at the historic church of Saint Eustache in the centre of the city, which also played host to the funeral of Mozarts mother in 1778. Dublins roads were the third most congested in Europe last year, new figures have revealed. Dublin was ranked after London, in first place, and Paris, in second, for the most congested cities and was 15th in the congestion worldwide ranking. The global rankings, which assessed over 900 cities in 37 countries, found that the US, Germany and the UK saw traffic congestion grow in 2023 and reach pre-Covid levels. However, Londons 2pc increase was lower than cities in the global top 25 congested cities, suggesting that the UK capital rebounded from the effects of Covid sooner and other cities are catching up, Inrix said. The data was released by transport analytics company Inrix, a US business that specialises in mobility analytics and connected car services. The ranking is based on the length of delays, weighted by the size of each citys population. The report breaks down the number of hours lost due to congestion or being stuck in traffic. It found drivers in Dublin lost 81 hours in congestion, which is up 13pc from 2023. In Galway, road users lost 67 hours due to congestion, down 8pc from 2023. London was ranked the most congested city in Europe, with drivers spending 101 hours sitting in traffic in 2024, a 2pc increase from 2023. Inrix said London contained most of the worst corridors for traffic delays in the UK because of the concentration of population, employment and economic activity. Paris came second (97 hours), followed by Dublin (81), Rome (71), Brussels (74), Warsaw (70), Milan (64), Rotterdam (63), Prague (64) and Berlin (58). The global top ten was Istanbul (105), New York City (102), Chicago (102), Mexico City (97), London (101), Paris (97), Jakarta (89), Los Angeles (88), Cape Town (94) and Brisbane (84). The Inrix annual Global Traffic Scoreboard is calculated by examining the length of time it takes to get to and from major employment centres within urban areas and the time it takes to get to commuting neighbourhoods. Once upon a time it was a day off for housewives but now it is more of a celebration of women Little Christmas was traditionally a day when women got to put their feet up. Marking the official end to Christmas festivities, January 6 sees Irish tradition celebrate the women of Ireland with Nollaig na mBan, translating to Womens Christmas. Also referred to as Little Christmas, Three Kings Day or Twelfth Night, universally, the day brings the Christmas period to a close. How has the occasion changed over the years? Unlike other European countries, Ireland traditionally celebrates January 6 differently, honouring the women of the household, those who historically held the main household duties such as cooking and cleaning. The holiday allowed women to have downtime from their household work and enjoy some well needed time off to spend with their female friends and relatives, resulting in the men taking over the cooking and chores. Little Christmas was traditionally a day when women got to put their feet up. What is Nollaig na mBan? With women taking on bigger roles in society, the need for a break from household chores has become a distant thought rather, the day has welded into a working day, seeing households put away their Christmas decorations in place of the traditional day off. The ever-changing landscape of women in the workplace has seen the holiday become an obsolete event. A smaller occasion and celebrated less throughout Ireland in modern society, a number of counties still pride themselves on the tradition, such as Kerry and Cork. Todays society sees the day celebrated differently from 100 years ago, with a number of women meeting for a special ladies afternoon tea, or seeing clubs packed with groups of female revellers celebrating. The day focuses on scheduling festivities with friends and gathering for brunch. In decades gone by, Irish women might have used the occasion to gather at one anothers homes for food, drinks and laughter while their husbands stayed home and watched the children. Traditionally, goose was the chosen meat served on the day, while the women called to the homes of their friends and neighbours to enjoy tea and the last of the Christmas cake. Today, many organisations have embraced the day to celebrate womens contributions in society, with galas and charity fundraisers for womens causes taking centre stage. For example, The Irish Writers Centre run an annual event marking the occasion, celebrating women writers worldwide. While Ireland remains different in their traditions, other European countries celebrate January 6 with gift giving. Hispanic tradition sees Spain celebrate Christmas Day as a solemn religious occasion, reserving Three Kings Day or Dia de los Reyes for celebrating and exchanging gifts. This tradition originates from the Bibles story of the three Kings following a bright star to Bethlehem on the night Christ was born, presenting him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Meanwhile, in England, a Yule log was kept lit until the twelfth night in order to bring blessings and good fortune throughout the upcoming year. While children in Germany tend to go from house to house on Epiphany Eve singing carols and chalking the year and initials of the three Kings near the entrance of each home. Secondary school enrolments are up 8,858 in the last year Multi-denominational schools account for 48.6pc of all second-level students. Photo: Stock image The number of students attending post-primary schools in Ireland has reached a new record with over 425,000 enrolled at secondary level in the current academic year. New figures published by the Department of Education show total enrolments in post-primary schools stood at 425,433 last September an annual increase of 8,858. The latest figures show the number of students attending secondary schools increased by 2.1pc over the past 12 months and has grown by approximately 90,000 in the last 20 years. For the second year in a row, the number of students attending multi-denominational schools at post-primary level has exceeded the numbers enrolled in Catholic schools. Preliminary enrolment figures for the 2024/25 school year reveal that multi-denominational schools currently account for 48.6pc of all second-level students with 47.6pc attending post-primary schools with a Catholic ethos. They also show that numbers attending multi-denominational schools increased by 2.8pc or just over 5,700 in the past 12 months ahead of the 1.6pc increase in the student population at Catholic schools where enrolments rose by approximately 3,100. In contrast, there was a slight reduction in the number of students attending Church of Ireland schools at post-primary levels to around 12,400. Despite the increase in the number of students at secondary levels, the number of post-primary schools remained static at 722. Over the past decade, however, the number of multi-denominational secondary schools has grown by 26 to 358, while the number of Catholic schools has decreased by 12 to 337. The rise in student numbers at post-primary levels was reflected in increased enrolments in almost every county with the largest increases in Dublin (2,840), Cork (745), Kildare (684), Galway (584) and Meath (576). Only two counties recorded a decrease, albeit by small numbers Waterford and Leitrim. The figures are based on the annual census recorded by all schools of their student numbers last September 30. In sharp contrast to the large increase in numbers attending secondary schools, the total number of pupils enrolled in primary schools in the current academic year has fallen by almost 1pc. Total enrolments in mainstream primary schools in September stood at 542,417 an annual decrease of 4,341. It represents a reduction of 0.8pc twice the rate of decrease of the 2023/24 school year. The number of pupils attending primary schools in the Republic has been falling since 2018, although an influx of Ukrainian refugees halted that trend briefly in 2022. The proportion of primary students enrolled in Catholic schools has continued to decline, albeit at a modest pace and now stands at 88.4pc down from 88.9pc 12 months ago. The latest figures show numbers attending Catholic schools are down 4,829 to just under 480,000 a drop of 1pc. They also reveal that eight Catholic primary schools have closed, been amalgamated or changed ethos in the past 12 months. The total number of primary schools with a Catholic ethos now stands at 2,722 a decrease of over 100 in the past decade. Enrolments in multi-denominational schools currently total 45,013, representing 8.3pc of the primary school-going population up from 8.1pc in 2023/24. There are currently 170 multi-denominational primary schools nationwide up from 113 a decade ago. The Department of Education figures show that most counties recorded a decrease in enrolments at primary level due to the overall demographic trend with the biggest reductions in Dublin (-1,842), Cork (-581), Meath (-344) and Clare (-325). Slight increases in the primary school population were registered in Westmeath, Offaly, Monaghan, Leitrim, Laois, Wexford and Kildare. Dublins north-inner city was the only area deemed 'seriously littered' in the survey. Photo: Getty The worsening of refuse levels in Dublin city centre highlights the case for a ban on bin bags, according to an anti-litter group. Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) also found in its annual survey that despite a fall in bottles and cans being dumped on streets, it was not enough to reduce littler levels nationwide. A survey of 40 towns and cities across Ireland highlighted Naas as the cleanest town and Galway the cleanest city. Dublins north inner city was bottom of the pile and the only area deemed seriously littered. According to inspectors, vast quantities of loose food and alcohol-related litter had been discarded near Emmet Road in Dublin. While Sherrard Street Upper had bags of domestic rubbish, the contents of which have been ripped open and scattered about. Another blackspot was Crinian Strand, a short stretch of residential housing, with large household items such as mattresses and furniture discarded along the pavement, along with at least a dozen black sacks of rubbish the contents of which were being scavenged by seagulls. The capitals city centre was only one position above and described as littered, with the anti-refuse group saying this highlights the need for a proper enforcement on a bin bag ban These findings strengthen the case for the ban on bag bins in Dublin City, said Conor Horgan of IBAL. Weve been saying for years that the use of bags for waste collection has been an impediment to progress in the capital on a number of fronts. The ban can bring about a step change, but its impact will hinge on proper enforcement. The ban came into force in the south inner city last week, with an extension north of the Liffey planned for the summer. Last year saw a further fall in the number of areas within cities and towns deemed litter blackspots, which IBAL says suggests local authorities have been generally more effective in tackling urban dumping and targeting problem sites identified. The survey also revealed a near-50pc fall in the prevalence of plastic bottles and cans in the more than 500 sites monitored since the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) was introduced last year. We are definitely seeing cans and bottles disappear from our streets, which is very welcome not only are they unsightly, but the bottles contribute to the very real problem of plastic pollution, Mr Horgan said. However, it is clear from our survey that people continue to discard a wide range of litter types, with flagrant disregard for their surroundings. The DRS was one of a number of structural measures broached by the last government as part of its environmental agenda, with knock-on benefits in terms of litter. A ban on disposable vapes and a coffee cup levy were others. Sweet wrappers and fast-food wrappers were the most common litter types, ahead of plastic bags and coffee cups, which were present in over 20pc of sites. Naas finished top of the rankings for the third time in four years, with An Taisce, which conduct the surveys on behalf of IBAL, praising the Kildare town on an achievement that didnt happen overnight. It seems some people must face the choice between a cold top half or bottom half this winter. Photo: Getty The application of mathematics in the world of commerce and product design is clearly not as important as we are taught in school. My height is 5-foot-four, the heating element in my brand new, high-tech, latest-spec electric blanket is four inches, therefore, the choice is chilblains in my toes or freezing shoulders. Go figure. Eve Parnell, address with editor No-one can equal Higgins, Robinson or McAleese except Jarlath Burns Michael D Higginss final term as Uachtarain na hEireann will be expiring in November and now is the time for us to be identifying a replacement. Although not an avid follower of sporting events, I watched the awe-inspiring All-Ireland hurling final between Cork and Clare last year and have played and replayed the speech made by Jarlath Burns from the Hogan stand afterwards. Until then, I had thought that Michael D would be irreplaceable in terms of oratorial eloquence and quality of content, but my opinion has changed. In that speech, delivered in equal fluency in both our national languages, Burns displayed a depth of wisdom anyone would envy. He thanked those countries who took in our destitute emigrants, who provided opportunities for them to integrate and prosper. What an appropriate response to those who might seek to show a cold shoulder to our new arrivals here. In my memory, the Irish people have shown great wisdom in choosing presidents. Think of Mary Robinson and Mary McAleese. Having now studied Jarlath Burnss background, I believe he has the qualities to fill the shoes of Michael D, to keep Ireland and its presidency on a steady path and to take it to a new level. Sheila Ward, Carrickmacross, Co Monaghan In weather as hostile as this, support for homeless charities is imperative This weather is particularly hard on all of those who are homeless and sleeping rough on our streets. I find it heart-breaking to think of all those poor souls attempting to survive in the night cold as temperatures drop. Its been reported that because of the surge in demand for homeless services, they are finding it very hard to keep up. I want to take this opportunity to thank all those selfless volunteers who work in easing the plight of the homeless. I would now call on the Government to support all of our homeless charities and all those who are sleeping rough on our streets. John OBrien, Clonmel, Co Tipperary Tight-fisted pints-round spongers must be rounded up and hung out to dry Over the past week or so, a number of regular contributors to your Letters page have highlighted the reluctance of some within their respective circles when it comes to buying a round of drinks. Without wishing to be too cynical, I think they are getting what they deserve (or in this case not getting). Why tolerate such frugality? Those who fail to dip into their pocket are clearly spongers and should be cut adrift from the group. Gerard Cassidy, Derrygonnelly, Co Fermanagh If Bono truly is a human rights advocate, he should return medal of freedom Last Saturday, just before Bono received a presidential medal of freedom for his humanitarian work and human rights advocacy from US president Joe Biden, the same man had approved an additional $8bn (7.8bn) of military aid, including lethal 500lb bombs and Hellfire missiles, to the Israel Defence Forces with no conditions, to be used in a genocidal war on Gaza. Maybe Bono, as an advocate for human rights in the world, might consider returning his award as a sign of his solidarity with the Palestinian people. Brendan Butler, Drumcondra, Dublin 9 Ageing society behind house price apocalypse, not income and supply John Burns in the Irish Independent of December 23 commented on the Central Banks Financial Stability Committees claim that looser lending rules are not responsible for driving up house prices. This article has once again turned my attention to our house-price balloon. He went on to record the Central Banks view that the shortage of supply in the housing market, and strong growth in incomes, are the reasons for accelerating prices. For the past 30 years, I have pointed out that we are experiencing an ever-reducing birth rate, resulting in rising house prices. This is mainly due to the lifting of the ban on the use of contraceptives. The average house price rose by circa 260,000 from 1996 to 2007. This false enthusiasm resulted in a collapse in house prices and a bank crisis in 2008. Afterwards, the annual mortgage loans approved decreased by 73pc. The loan-to-income (LTI) has increased dramatically since the 1970s. The total drawdowns since the banking crisis average around 10,000 annually. The problem with the Central Banks statement is that when viewed from a wider economic viewpoint, they are not taking the decreasing birth rate into account. This results in financial companies making massive profits, having learned to profit as the structures governing our societys robustness are weakening, i.e. an increasingly ageing of society. There is a belief that positive net migration will lessen the problem. This is an out-and-out fallacy, as it, in effect, worsens the situation. Emigrants normally adopt the social mores of the host country. In other words, the percentage of births per population in 1980 was 2.18pc; 2004 was 1.46pc; 2024 was 1.12pc. Net migration has temporally increased the population, but not the overall birth rate. Financial companies must continue the lumbering of the youth with jumbo mortgage repayments, otherwise the house-price balloon will collapse. Such additional burdens will further reduce the birth rate. Immigration will continue as many of our youth will continue to ill afford the price of a first house. The rapid ageing of our society is now self-perpetuating. Ireland and much of the western world now have the characteristics of an outer-space black hole: any human life in or near its influence is swallowed up and disappears. Elon Musks solution is to jettison selected numbers of us to Mars to avoid an expected violent upheaval here on Earth and continue humanity elsewhere. John F Higgins (general election 2007 candidate and European election 2009 candidate) The General Post Office on OConnell Street is undoubtedly one of Irelands most significant buildings - an architectural gem thats played an important role in both daily life and historic events since 1818. It was the last major public building of the Georgian period and in the centuries since the elegant stone facade has worn many faces; as the headquarters of the 1916 rising, the bustling epicenter of 20th century communication and even as the point by which the distance to towns and cities across the country were measured. This year the Dublin landmark faces a milestone of its own - with a new purpose for the building set to be revealed. So what next for one of the nation's most significant buildings - a new home for RTE, a suite of government offices, a state of the art museum? Dave Hanratty is joined by Donal Fallon (author, historian, and host of the Three Castles Burning Podcast) to discuss whether the GPO will become a useful monument to Irish history or a relic of our past. Host: Dave Hanratty | Guest: Donal Fallon Families from the Ballyhoura region left for Ontario and Ottawa as part of an emigration scheme 200 years ago The names of families, and the areas where they hailed from, who participated in the emigration scheme 200 years ago. A Community Information session regarding the homecoming event will be held on January 15. Irish immigrants including John and Ellen Maguire from the Ballyhoura region, photographed in Ontario, Canada in 1903. Credit: Patrick J Shannon The Heffernan family who emigrated from the Ballyhoura region to Canada as part of the Peter Robinson Scheme. Photo from Mary English-Cooper Ballyhoura will this year celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Peter Robinson Settlers Assisted Emigration Scheme, which saw many families leave their communities in north Cork and east Limerick for Canada in search of a better life. The scheme saw families from places like Mitchelstown, Doneraile, Kildorrery, Churchtown, Liscarroll, Charleville, Croom, Kilfinane, Kilbehenny and Colmanswell depart for the Ottawa and Ontario regions from the Port of Cove in 1823 and 1825. In September, between 150 and 500 descendants of these Irish pioneers will return to Ballyhoura to commemorate, reflect, and reconnect with the people and places their ancestors once called home. With unprecedented interest from across Canada and the United States, eager descendants of the Peter Robinson Settlers are already making their travel arrangements, excited to explore their ancestral roots and connect with the communities of their forebears. The Homecoming will begin on Monday, September 15, with a week of celebrations, culminating in a commemorative event at Griston Bog on Sunday, September 21. Across the event week, Ballyhoura communities will have the unique opportunity to engage with returning descendants, share local stories, and celebrate the shared cultural heritage of the region. Ahead of the event taking place, Ballyhoura Development CLG is calling on the local community to get involved. Individuals, community groups, businesses, and heritage enthusiasts from across the Ballyhoura region have been invited to help make this event a memorable celebration of culture, history, and connection. The event has been billed as a unique opportunity to share the rich culture, history, and heritage of the area. People can get involved in several ways. Locals who may be part of a local heritage group or have family connections to the Peter Robinson Scheme have been asked to share their invaluable stories and knowledge. Community councils, local businesses, and volunteers have been asked to help create a warm welcome for visitors while hotels, B&Bs, guesthouses, restaurants, cafes, and bars can play a key role in hosting and catering for attendees. Musicians, artists, performers, and craft makers are invited to showcase the rich cultural life of Ballyhoura throughout the celebrations while those with expertise in local history have been asked to lead tours or share historical insights with visitors. Anybody willing to volunteer in some capacity for the event will be welcome. A community information session will be held by Ballyhoura Development at the Old Creamery at Kildorrery on Wednesday, January 15. Information will be provided about how people can get involved to create a homecoming to remember. Registration for the Community Information Session is available on the Ballyhoura Development website. Nicole Ryan and Mary Lou McDonald in Millstreet in the run up to the General Election. Nicole Ryan said she is delighted to have been selected by Sinn Fein to contest the upcoming elections to Seanad Eireann. Ms Ryan helped the party secure its biggest ever vote in Cork North-West in the recent general election. The 31-year-old garnered 5,452 first-preference votes (12.73%) and was eliminated after the fifth count. Speaking to The Corkman Ms Ryan said the party is keen to build on their impressive vote in Cork North West. Sinn Fein has nominated me off the back of the election. We had a great election and also we had no representation in Cork North West. The basis for that is to have somebody down here to represent Sinn Fein and everybody that has voted for me. I am delighted to be nominated, said Ms Ryan. It is a huge testament to all the hard work from my team and I. We are really delighted and we are very excited about it. Hopefully I can get in. I want to build on my result in the general election. I want to be there to help people in Cork North West. There are a lot of issues. I want to be able to help people. Ms Ryan will contest the upcoming election on the Administrative panel. If she is elected to Seanad Eireann she will set up a political base in the constituency. If I am successful it will help to build the profile of the party and I. It also gives me a chance to learn everything before I go into the next general election. I will get to know the ground work and I will be able to represent the people. It will also enable me to set up a base which people can come to. It will help me to build my profile and come the next general election hopefully I will get a seat. Over the last five years things in changed in Cork North West. The population has increased in a number of places. I firmly believe that the vote will continue to change, she added. Sinn Fein has selected six candidates to contest the upcoming elections to Seanad Eireann. These include: Administrative panel - Nicole Ryan, Industrial and commercial panel Conor Murphy MLA, Cultural and educational panel Pauline Tully, Agricultural panel Joanne Collins and Labour panel Chris Andrews and Maria McCormack. The election is by postal vote with ballots issued on Wednesday, January 15. Counting begins on Thursday, January 30. Ms Ryan said there is a lot of canvassing and networking going on behind the scenes. There is a lot of networking and canvassing behind the scenes. It is a different kind of canvassing. There is no knocking on doors. You are reaching out to a lot of councillors and TDs. Seven senators will be picked from the Administrative panel. I will have to work hard over the coming weeks to get over the line. I will definitely put in the time and effort. Hopefully at the end of January I will get in, she added. Waterways Ireland spent nearly 800k on preventing encampments along the Grand Canal in 2024. Pic: Gerry Mooney Waterways Ireland spent nearly 800,000 on maintaining the area along Dublins Grand Canal last year, in an effort to prevent tent encampments. As of December 2, the total bill amounted to 790,769. The highest contribution to these costs, at 566,718, was for barriers erected along the canal towpath. Other costs incurred by Waterways Ireland included the monitoring of the area, which accounted for 128,881 of the total bill, as well as tent removal, which cost nearly 100,000. Throughout the year, international protection applicants repeatedly set up tents along the canal in Dublin. However, Waterways Ireland persisted in removing these encampments due to concerns about the safety and health of people staying in tents. A spokesperson for Waterways Ireland said: The overriding concern of Waterways Ireland has been, and continues to be, the safety and health of people staying in tents by the canals. The actions Waterways Ireland has undertaken have been to safeguard the well-being of the individuals residing in tents, the general public, and to uphold Waterways Irelands statutory obligations. The canal is a wonderful amenity for responsible recreational use it is not a safe place to sleep, it added. The statement continued by urging people not to sleep near the canal due to the risk of accidentally falling in, which could result in a fatality or serious injury. It added: The canal was not designed to be entered by people and can be deceptively dangerous, with deep water in places, up to 800mm of sediment at the bottom, and steep slopes. In many cases, the towpaths and verge areas are narrow. Tents have been pitched there, and on sloped areas, at lock gates and landing jetties; this is extremely dangerous. Ropes and other obstructions have been fastened between tents, from railings and across walkways, creating the potential for trips and falls. Particularly in darkness, this creates a risk of people inadvertently falling into the water. In addition, tents present other significant public health and safety concerns, including risks associated with unsanitary conditions, fire hazards, and the structural integrity of temporary shelters adjacent to a waterway. These dangers not only endanger the individuals residing there, but also members of the general public who use the canal and the lands adjacent to it, as well as operational teams, including Waterways Ireland staff. Waterways Irelands mandate requires it to ensure the canal and its embankments do not fall into misuse, disrepair, or desuetude, and are not subject to, or put at risk of, damage and/or destruction. In fulfilling these duties, Waterways Ireland is obligated to uphold the highest standards of public health and safety. The erection of long stretches of fencing also proved contentious among local residents and tourists, who said it closed off the amenity to pedestrians. Proposed new bylaws could end food banks on Dublins streets The operator of a Dublin-based soup run has warned that proposed new bylaws banning on-street services for homeless people, could end up costing lives. The bylaws, which will be voted on by councillors in the coming months, could put an end to on-street soup kitchens and food banks over health and safety concerns. The proposal stems from a report, commissioned by Dublin City Council, which links such services to anti-social behaviour and public safety concerns, suggesting soup runs should be moved indoors. However, Glenda Harrington, of Friends Helping Friends, believes lives will be put at risk if the ban goes ahead. Theyve tried every possible way to get rid of us, and now theyre going to try to do it through new laws, she said. Glenda Harrington, founder of Dublin soup kitchen Friends Helping Friends. Pic: Mark Condren Protest held at Dublin City hall after plans on banning on-street services We are going to fight, and were not going to let it happen were not going anywhere. If they had the services in place to replace me, Id be happy to go. I dont particularly want to be out in the freezing cold, but I am out there because I need to be. If they were doing their job, I wouldnt be necessary, I wouldnt be needed. But clearly there is not enough being done. If were gone, who is going to help them? Absolutely nobody, and theyre going to die, she added. Ms Harrington, a trained volunteer, said while most of her volunteers are not formally trained, you dont need training to show compassion. My volunteers are kind, they show love and to do that shouldnt require formal paperwork. It doesnt make any sense, she said. Friends Helping Friends, who took to the streets near Trinity College on Friday and Saturday night, described it among the hardest and most emotional nights theyve experienced in several years. Volunteers brought hot food, coats, dry clothes and sleeping bags, noting that those accessing the service could not stop shaking from the cold. We were cleared out on Friday and Saturday, people came from everywhere, Ms Harrington said. There were six people in one tent just cramming in together for body heat. Seeing people where they are in this cold is just heart-breaking. One gentleman arrived without socks and with soaking wet shoes, his feet sore and hurting from the cold. The proposed soup kitchen bylaws aim to end the practice of unregulated groups, such as Friends Helping Friends, providing hot food to people in need. This recommendation comes from the Taoiseachs Taskforce in Dublin, which was published late last year. Meanwhile, according to the Department of Housings monthly homeless report, more than 15,000 people accessed emergency accommodation in November last year. Figures reached another record high, with 15,199 people accessing emergency services, including 4,658 children. Of this, 10,925 were in Dublin alone a 10pc year-on-year increase in the capital, according to the report. However, these figures do not include those sleeping rough, in domestic abuse refuges, couch surfing or other forms of homelessness. Killarneys ranking was described as an excellent result while Tralee again fell short of clean status Killarney placed fourth out of 40 towns and cities in the IBAL Anti-Litter League rankings, published on Sunday. Kerrys two major towns of Tralee and Killarney received differing results in the latest Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) Anti-Litter League rankings, released on Sunday, January 5. In the report, based on the second IBAL survey of 40 towns and cities across Ireland last year, Killarney was described as Cleaner than European Norms and ranked in fourth position while Tralee was classed as Moderately Littered and placed 28th. The two towns were the only locations in Kerry included in the IBAL survey. Judges noted that Killarneys ranking was an excellent result, with all but one of the ten sites inspected in the town receiving Grade A markings. The towns top four position means that it improved on its tenth place ranking in the first survey carried out for 2024, released last June, and 14th position in the second survey for 2023, published in January last year. The result sees Killarneys momentum continue after it finished first in the county in the 2024 Tidy Towns competition. There was no heavily littered sites surveyed in Killarney, the new IBAL report on the town stated. Particularly impressive was the car park at Killarney Outlet Centre, which judges said all aspects of, including the surface, signage and perimeter planted areas, were freshly presented and maintained. It was spotless throughout, judges said. The open space off Rock Road/ St Margarets Road was also noted for its cleanliness, with a virtual absence of litter throughout the green area, while Killarneys Main Street was said to have some lovely features including attractive paving, large wooden planter boxes, tree planting and well-presented shop fronts. Apart from some cigarette butts, there were no other obvious litter issue, IBAL judges reported. Dr Hans Liebherr Road, St Margarets Road, Glebe Car Park, Well Lane South Muckross Road and Tiernaboul Industrial Estate also received Grade A marks following the survey while the Deposit Return Scheme at Lidl was the only site inspected to receive a Grade B. There were too many items, not associated with the Deposit Return Scheme on the ground / in the immediate vicinity of the facility for the top litter grade. The ground surrounding the facility was somewhat grubby, perhaps due to customers emptying the surplus contents of their containers on the ground, the report said. Tralee, judges noted, again fell short of clean status, following the latest survey. The town was also classed as Moderately Littered in the first IBAL survey of 2024, in which it ranked 25th, while it had been described as Clean to European Norms and ranked 21st in the report previous to that. Some may be disappointed with the towns new ranking, as Tralee finished second in the county, just a point behind Killarney, in last years Tidy Towns. The latest IBAL report marked Casement Train Station (Grade C+) as the most littered site surveyed in Tralee. Judges noted that despite the efforts of train station staff and Tralee Tidy Towns, the station was heavily littered. Tralee Tidy Towns are working with Iarnrod Eireann to address the litter issue as the latter dont have the resources to maintain the shrub bed/keep up with litter picking. The area directly beside the front door was clear of litter, there were small amounts in the car park, but it was the accumulations at the base of the shrubbery, and area next to the coffee kiosk which really brought down the litter grade, judges reported. It was questioned whether or not increased litter awareness notices would be a solution to the littering at the station. It was not all doom and gloom for Tralee, as four sites in the town received Grade A marks. The Mall was one such location, with judges noting that despite the presence of some chewing gum and cigarette butts and the grimy appearance of the street surface, it was very good with regards to litter. The site presented very well due to its large planter boxes, wooden seating, street bins and signage, according to judges. Caherslee Approach Road was another area which received top marks, as there was no litter directly associated with the pavement enhancement works and it created a very positive impression. It was noted that there was a virtual absence of litter throughout the Horan Centre, with trolley bays, the car park and area to the front of the shops by the public road in good order. Clashlehane Roundabout to the roundabout by Kerry County Council was described as an excellent site in terms of presentation and creating a first impression of the town. The grass verges and sculpture of Clashlehane Roundabout were in very good condition. The overall impression with regards to litter was a good one with a virtual absence throughout, judges said. Rath Oraigh, Kerry Community Service, the Deposit Return Scheme at Dunnes Stores in the Horan Centre, Market Street and Dalys Lane all received Grade B marks from IBAL judges. Though Tralee fell by three places in the rankings in the latest report, judges did note the work carried out by Tidy Towns volunteers and the staff of local businesses, like JRI America, to clean up the town. The IBAL report stated that not much effort is required for some of the moderately littered sites, like Market Street and the much improved Dalys Lane, to get the top litter grade. The Kildare town of Naas retained its top spot in the IBAL rankings, while Kilkenny placed second and Monaghan came in third. Gardai have launched an investigation following a brazen shoplifting incident at Tesco's, Longford Shopping Centre on Friday evening which resulted in the theft of a number of high-end mobile phones. Gardai have launched a hunt for two men who brazenly walked into a Longford supermarket at the weekend and left moments later with a cache of stolen mobile phones. The incident, which is now the subject of a garda investigation, took place at Tesco, Longford Shopping Centre, shortly after 5pm on Friday evening. The Irish Independent understands both suspects approached a female member of staff seconds after arriving into the store to run the rule over a number of phones. It was during those discussions that the two suspects suddenly grabbed three phones and made off from the scene on foot. Its believed the total haul of items taken had a retail value of around 1,600. Gardai attended the scene a short time later and have since begun making inquiries in a bid to track down both suspects. A key element of that probe is expected to hinge on the procuring of CCTV footage both in the moments preceding and following the audacious shoplifting raid. Gardai received report of an incident of theft that occurred at approximately 5:20pm on January 3 in the Townspark area of Longford Town, said a garda spokesperson. A number of items have been reported as stolen from the premises. "No arrests have been made at this time (and) investigations are ongoing. Gardai have confirmed a teenage schoolgirl reported missing from her home in county Meath since St Stephens Day has been found safe and well. Fifteen-year-old Chloe McDonagh was reported missing from her home in Navan, Co. Meath on December 26. A public appeal for information followed with gardai now standing down that search following its successful conclusion. Hundreds of people gathered at Hyde Bridge on New Years Eve to participate in Sligos traditional Solidarity Vigil with Palestine and Gaza. Among the participants were a number of public representatives including the Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council, Cllr Declan Bree, Cllr Gino OBoyle and Cllr Arthur Gibbons. Those attending displayed Palestinian flags and displayed banners and placards which read: Boycott Israeli Goods, Stop the Genocide Free Palestine, Has America got no shame, Permanent Ceasefire Now, End the Siege of Gaza. Speaking to The Sligo Champion, the solidarity campaign spokesperson Aine Daly said: Over 45,000 Palestinians have now been killed in the Gaza Strip, with Israel carrying out renewed attacks on healthcare workers in recent days. This includes last weeks torching of Kamal Adwan Hospital, one of the last remaining partially functioning medical facilities in Gaza, and the abduction of its director - Dr Hussam Abu Safia - by Israeli forces. We should remember that the Gaza Strip is only 40 kilometres long, and between 6 to 12 km wide - its half the size of county Louth. With 2.3 million people it is one of the most densely populated territories in the world, with the majority of residents descendants of refugees who fled or were expelled in 1948 from the area that became Israel. Over 40 per cent are under the age of 15, and the vast majority of the population has never left the narrow coastal enclave due to the ongoing siege. President Michael D. Higgins was right when he described the Israeli slaughter of Palestinians as transcending all of the boundaries of humanitarian law. Israels campaign of genocide has led to the killing of an estimated 17,000 children to date, of whom at least 710 were under one year old. Up to 21,000 children are estimated to be missing detained, trapped beneath the rubble, or buried in unmarked graves, according to Save the Children organisation. Oxfam has pointed out that more women and children have been killed in Gaza by the Israeli military over the past year than the equivalent period of any other conflict over the past twenty years. Such is the scale and intensity of attacks on children in Gaza and in the West Bank, that the UN Secretary-General has added the Israeli armed forces to the annual List of Shame of warring parties who stand accused of committing grave violations against children in armed conflict. President Biden and the U.S administration are now clearly complicit in war crimes by continuing to provide the Israeli regime with massive shipments of armaments and by undermining efforts to bring about a genuine humanitarian ceasefire. When the Dail meets to agree the formation of a new Government we need to see the Occupied Territories Bill prioritised and enacted at the soonest possible time. Ireland must show leadership and work with others to help ensure that the Israeli regime is held to account and sanctioned for its ongoing campaign of genocide and its gross violations of international law, she said. Some of the SL Controls Leadership team with Par Fors NNIT CEO and Ricco Larson, Senior Vice President, Region Europe NNIT; SL Controls is to merge with multinational NNIT as Ireland takes on the role of the global smart factory base for NNIT. Former SL Controls CEO Keith Moran will head up NNITs Smart Factory and Supply Chain solutions, while the former senior leadership team from SL Controls will be assuming responsibility for NNITs Smart Factory operations. All former staff and management from SL Controls in both Ireland (Sligo, Dublin, Limerick, and Galway) and the U.S. (Florida) will remain in place. The Irish specialist technology integration firm was acquired by the NNIT Group one of the worlds leading suppliers of business and IT solutions to life sciences in 2021. Publicly listed NNIT is specialised in life sciences internationally and the private and public sectors in Denmark. It has 1,700 employees in Europe, Asia, and the US. In January 2025, SL Controls will merge into NNIT and fully integrate with the NNIT Group. The former SL Controls operations will be part of NNITs Smart Factory solutions, with 150 employees in Ireland and across NNITs other locations worldwide. The smart factory is part of the future of manufacturing. It integrates systems, equipment, and devices so they can generate data to improve production processes. NNIT will be working with the life sciences sector internationally to modernise manufacturing processes based on smart factory principles and ensuring clients have constant access to accurate and reliable manufacturing data from every corner of their factories. Headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark, the NNIT Group also has locations in Germany, Switzerland, Poland, Czech Republic, UK, China, Philippines, Singapore, and the US. The company focuses on high complexity industries and advises on and builds sustainable digital solutions that work for patients, citizens, employees, end users and clients. Its expertise in digital transformation for the life sciences industry helps its clients across key parts of the life sciences value chain, turning fragmented and isolated manufacturing and supply chain processes into a well-integrated digital landscape where data flows freely from one end to the other, enabling data-driven decisions manufacturing. Celebrating 30 years in business this year, NNIT consists of a group company NNIT A/S and subsidiaries SL Controls, Excellis Health Solutions and SCALES Group. Keith Moran, SL Controls, CEO, says: We are very excited about the international role we will be playing in the NNIT Group and how this change will further enhance our service offering to meet our current clients global requirements while also giving us access to larger-scale global projects across the European market. SL Controls will be NNIT by January 2025, and we will be fully integrated into the NNIT Group. This ongoing evolution of the company brings with it many benefits and opportunities for clients as we widen our network. It is an excellent progression for the company and for all the people working in it. We are delighted to be fully integrating with a company that shares our vision of excellence in service delivery in the life sciences industry. It also gives our team wider career options both in Ireland and across Europe and will give them access to work on major global projects. There is great cultural alignment between SL Controls and NNIT as we both focus on our people success is only possible because of the skills and dedication of our team. Ricco Larsen, Senior Vice President, Region Europe, NNIT, says: We are thrilled to be joining forces with the SL Controls team, bringing deep expertise within the Smart Factory solutions area to our Manufacturing & Supply Chain domain. Together, we will be even stronger with a second-to-none united offering portfolio to the life sciences market. This will bring many exciting opportunities for clients and employees alike, and we are very excited about our joint future. Wicklow County Council completed a total of 38 new-build social homes in Q3 of 2024, and with Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) and rental accommodation schemes, a total of 95 new social housing supports were delivered across the county. The latest figures were published by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, in the Q3 social and affordable housing delivery statistics, which showed 4,253 new social housing supports were delivered across the board. Traditionally, the delivery of social housing increases throughout the year and the bulk of delivery is achieved in Q4. Last year, over two-thirds of all new-build delivery occurred in the final three-months of the year, and 2024 is on course to see a similar surge in the final quarter, the department noted. Commenting on the figures, Housing Minister Darragh OBrien said: This delivery of social housing is indicative of the overall progress in the delivery of all types of housing in Ireland. "It was announced [December 19] that 54,574 new homes were commenced in the first 11 months of this year. This represents an increase of 84% compared to the same period last year, and means that on average, 235 new homes were commenced every working day in 2024 to the end of November. Gordon Harris The Golden Empress will feature at Gormleys, Belfast from January 11 to 31. See Gormleys.ie. Image - Gerard Gormley. Julian Opies Sidewalk 1 (2022), valued at 39,500, will feature at Gormleys Dublin. Image - Alex Delfanne. Gordon Harris Camoflage Girl (Pink), valued at 15,000, will feature at Gormleys, Belfast. Image - Gerard Gormley. Julian Opies Dance, Synced: Dance 1 (2024), valued at 12,495, will feature at Gormleys, Dublin. Image - Gerard Gormley. An English art icon and designer of the cover of Blurs Best Of album, Julian Opie, is set to stage his first-ever solo exhibition in Ireland. The internationally acclaimed artist from London is set to come to Dublin later this month. Opie is one of Britains most renowned contemporary artists and is recognised for his permanent digital sculpture Suzanne Walking outside the Hugh Lane Gallery in Dublin. He also created an LED projection for U2s Vertigo world tour back in 2006. His first Irish solo exhibition will run at Gormleys Art Gallery in Dublin from January 18 to February 8. The highly-anticipated show will offer visitors an opportunity to experience a collection of his innovative visual language in Ireland. Julian Opies Sidewalk 1 (2022), valued at 39,500, will feature at Gormleys Dublin. Image - Alex Delfanne. James Gormley of Gormleys Art Gallery described Julian Opies art as both timeless and forward-thinking. His unique ability to distil the complexities of the human experience into simplified, iconic forms has made him a key figure in contemporary art, he added. Opie was born in London and has emerged as an influential figure in the British art scene of the 1980s. Known for his portraits, which simplify human figures into geometric forms and bold outlines, he had his art exhibitions at major institutions, such as the Tate Modern in London, the Louvre in Paris, and the Venice Biennale. His work is also held in the permanent collections of prestigious museums worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the British Museum and the National Portrait Gallery in London. Julian Opies Dance, Synced: Dance 1 (2024), valued at 12,495, will feature at Gormleys, Dublin. Image - Gerard Gormley. This month will also see iconic Irish figurative artist Gordon Harris feature at Gormleys Belfast gallery. Harris, who was first inspired to paint his daughters when his eldest Elise was in the hospital with meningitis on her third birthday, is set to showcase the latest in a series following his children into adulthood. Using Elises sketch pad, he initially captured his daughter during her hospital stay when she was sitting up in bed, and for the past 17 years has continued to paint all three of his daughters. Gordon Harris Camoflage Girl (Pink), valued at 15,000, will feature at Gormleys, Belfast. Image - Gerard Gormley. His pieces began with recurring themes of protection while the girls were young, and have since expanded into encompassing their strong wills and strengths. His most recent work, "The Golden Empress, captures Elise ahead of her twentieth birthday and carries the message from her father not to concern herself with fools. Gordon Harris The Golden Empress will feature at Gormleys, Belfast from January 11 to 31. See Gormleys.ie. Image - Gerard Gormley. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content This piece will be featured at an exhibition of Harris work at Gormleys Art Gallery in Belfast, which runs from this Saturday until January 31. Both exhibitions are free to the public and more information is available on Gormleys Art Gallery website. The first transgender actress to be nominated for a film acting gong at the Golden Globes said you can beat us up, but you never can take away our soul or existence or identity after her movie Emilia Perez won best film, comedy or musical. The operatic musical about a Mexican drug lord who changes gender scored four gongs, including best original song for El Mal, the category for best non-English language film, and a best supporting actress win for Zoe Saldana. French director Jacques Audiard, who had a translator with him on stage on Sunday night at the California event, made way for Karla Sofia Gascon, a Spanish trans woman, to speak to the audience. Zoe Saldana poses with the award for best performance by a female actor in a supporting role in any motion picture (Chris Pizzello/AP) Dressed in a red and orange dress, which she said was about representing the religion of Buddhism, Gascon said: The light always wins over darkness. You can put us in jail, you can beat us up. But you never can take away our soul or existence or identity. And what I want to say to you is raise your voice, I am who I am, not who you want. Gascon was beaten to the best actress musical or comedy gong by American actress Demi Moore for body horror The Substance, which deals with a formerly famous actress trying to become younger again to reclaim her old career. Oscar-tipped film Emilia Perez, primarily in Spanish, follows a cartel leader (Gascon), who asks a high-powered lawyer (Saldana) to help fake their death and undergoes sex-reassignment operations. Selena Gomez is up for best supporting actress at the Golden Globes (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) Mexican actress Salma Hayek telling fellow Hollywood star Selena Gomez to have her moment at the Golden Globes is among the stand-out moments on the red carpet this year. Gomez, whose family are from Mexico, is up for best supporting actress in a motion picture against her Emilia Perez co-star Zoe Saldana at the event, which is being held at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles on Sunday. Hayek was about to join Variety magazine for an interview on the red carpet, but saw Gomez and said: I want Selena to have her moment. Mexican actress Salma Hayek (Doug Peters/PA) Gomez than broke down in tears, and said: I havent taken any pictures yet, so its actually the sweetest thing ever, I love her. I look up to her, my dads crush is her. She is also up against British star Felicity Jones for her role in The Brutalist, Isabella Rossellini for Conclave, Margaret Qualley for The Substance and pop heavyweight Ariana Grande whose nomination for Wicked marked her first in the film actress category. The US actress was then interrupted by her Only Murders In The Building co-stars Martin Short and Steve Martin, who play a trio who solve murders after becoming obsessed with true crime podcasts. For the series, Gomez is also up for a best performance Golden Globe by an actress in a TV musical or comedy, against Kristen Bell for Netflix romantic comedy hit Nobody Wants This, about a rabbi and a podcast host who fall in love, and British actress Ayo Edebiri for kitchen-set high tension drama The Bear. Martin told Variety: How about this gal (Selena)? I dont know. Is that OK to say? Youre nominated for this outstanding movie that you went to Paris to shoot and learn Spanish lines, and its just amazing. Gomez was also seen holding hands with music producer Benny Blanco on the red carpet, who she got engaged to last year. Also reuniting on the red carpet at the Golden Globes were musical Moulin Rouge! stars Nicole Kidman and Scottish actor Ewan McGregor, and Ask The Dust co-stars Hayek and Irish actor Colin Farrell. Kidman praised Esther McGregor, McGregors daughter who stars in thriller Babygirl with her. Babygirl sees Kidman nominated for best actress in a drama film. Nicole Kidman at the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) McGregor said: Shes really wonderful in it she has a couple of moments in it that really just my eyes opened wide and I was like, Oh my gosh, shes really got it. So Im really proud. They both starred as love interests in the musical directed by Baz Luhrmann, and which received eight Academy Award nominations, winning two gongs in 2002 and later being adapted for the stage. Farrell, who transformed into a Batman villain for the HBO series Penguin, was giving Hayek advice on wearing prosthetics as he was interviewed by Variety. He said: The thing is be cautious about taking it off at the end of the day, because you want to be in a rush and you want to get out of there. Take your time, tell them to slow down. I would be ripping pieces off and tell them to hurry along and stuff, but just get them to take their time when theyre taking the prosthetics off, that will save your skin. Farrell is up against Richard Gadd for dark comedy Baby Reindeer, McGregor for Russian-set historical comedy A Gentleman In Moscow, and Irish actor Andrew Scott for a remake of Ripley on Netflix for best performance by a male actor in a limited or anthology series or TV film. American actress Emma Stone also surprised the red carpet with a pixie cut, a departure from her usual longer hairstyle, which she sported alongside a sparkly upper ear and a red dress. The 82nd Golden Globes is presented by American comedian and actress Nikki Glaser the first woman to solo host the ceremony. Former England and Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard also revealed his delight at the news The couple regularly post about each other online Steven Gerrards daughter Lilly-Ella has revealed she is expecting a baby with Lee Byrne, the son of Dublin gang boss Liam Byrne. Lilly (20) and Crumlin native Lee have been dating for over two years and regularly spend time with Gerrards family in Bahrain, where they are based. The daughter of Liverpool legend Gerrard shared the news with her 200,000 followers on Instragram this evening, describing the news as our little secret. Lilly shared the post online Sharing a photograph with two pregnancy tests and two scan photos, Lilly shared: Our little secret, the best news, mini us is on the way. She tagged her partner Lee in the post who commented: I love yous forever and forever. Former England and Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard also revealed his delight at the news, writing: We cant wait with two love heart emojis. He added: Great news and congratulations, we love you. Lillys mother Alex also commented: Cant wait followed by a string of love heart emojis. Lee shared the post to his own page, accompanied by a world emoji. The couple, who have no involvement in crime, have been dating for two-and-a-half-years, and regularly share snippets of their romance online. The couple regularly post about each other online Lees dad Liam Byrne is currently serving a jail sentence in the UK for his role in a bizarre plot to import firearms in at attempt to get his brother-in-law, mob boss Thomas Bomber Kavanagh, a reduced sentence. A key member of the Kinahan cartel, Crumlin man Liam was arrested in Mallorca and extradited to the UK in December 2023. In October, Liam Byrne was sentenced to five years behind bars at the Old Bailey in London after pleading guilty to the conspiracy charges. The gang boss, who has been in custody since he was arrested in Spain in June 2023, is likely to be released within the next year after the judge ruled he can serve half his sentence on license. Reacting to the news at the time, his son Lee shared his delight at the prospect of his dads release, posting: Get in there and I love you da. He added see u sooooonnnnn!!!! to the social media post, alongside black sunglasses emojis. The Indo Daily: Why is even the mention of water charges like playing with fire for politicians? Italian prisons should create love rooms so inmates can have sex with their wives or partners, say rights activists. The prisoners rights group Hands Off Cain has called for stanze dellamore, or love rooms, to be established after the Constitutional Court ruled that a male inmate serving prison time in the northern city of Asti had been denied the right to have sex with his wife. Israeli airstrikes killed at least 14 Palestinians in three separate attacks in the Gaza Strip yesterday, taking the weekend death toll to 102, Palestinian medics said, as US and Arab mediators stepped up efforts to conclude a ceasefire deal. Health officials said an Israeli airstrike killed five people in a house in the Nuseirat camp in central Gaza, while another airstrike killed four others in Jabalia in the northern edge of the enclave, where Israeli forces have been operating for three months. A model and her architect friend were left to die after leaving an LA party now an aspiring Hollywood producer is set to stand trial The trial of Hollywood producer David Pearce, charged in the deaths of two women, begins this week. The mother of Christy Giles, one of the victims, believes he should be held responsible for their deaths. Andrea Cavallier takes a look back on what happened that night Hilda Cabrales-Arzola, 26, poses with producer David Pearce, then 37, at an after-hours warehouse party in LA on November 13, 2021. Pearce will stand trial on January 6 in the deaths of Cabrales-Arzola and model friend, Christy Giles. Photo: Instagram Andrea Cavallier UK Independent Mon 6 Jan 2025 at 11:28 A model and her architect friend were suffering from overdoses when three masked men dumped their bodies outside separate hospitals after a warehouse party in Los Angeles. AR Rahmans Birthday: The music of this maestro has touched the hearts of millions, making the world groove to his beats while soothing troubled souls with his melodies. But behind the globally acclaimed name of Allah Rakha Rahman, there was once a young man named A. S. Dileep Kumar. In 1989, Rahman made the life-changing decision to convert to Islam. But what exactly led to this decision? AR Rahmans conversion story It all began in the most heart-wrenching situationwhen Rahmans father was suffering from terminal cancer. In his final days, a Sufi saint began treating Rahmans father where he used to offer both medical care and spiritual guidance. For Rahman, this encounter left a deep impact and drew him closer to the spiritual world while setting the stage for his own eventual conversion. In a conversation with Karan Thapar in 2000, Rahman opened up about this crucial period in his life. He recalled the experience: There was a Sufi who was treating him towards the end, just before he passed away. Rahman and his family eventually reconnected with the saint years later, a meeting that led them down a new spiritual path giving them peace. In Nasreen Munni Kabirs AR Rahman: The Spirit of Music, Rahman further explained the spiritual atmosphere of his childhood. "My mother was a practising Hindu. She had always been spiritually inclined, Rahman shared. Their home in Habibullah Road featured religious images from multiple faiths, including Hindu deities, Mother Mary holding Jesus, and photographs of Mecca and Medina. Thus, Rahmans upbringing was one of deep spiritual diversity that later heavily influenced his understanding of religion and faith. But Rahmans spiritual evolution was tied to his sense of self. He revealed in the same conversation that he never felt at home with his original name, Dileep Kumar. The truth is, I never liked my name. No disrespect to the great actor Dilip Kumar! However, somehow, my name didnt match the image I had of myself, Rahman admitted. Interestingly, it was a Hindu astrologer who played a crucial role in Rahmans name change. During a visit to an astrologer for his sisters wedding, Rahman asked if he should change his name. The astrologer suggested two namesAbdul Rahman and Abdul Rahimboth of which he believed would suit Rahmans future. It was at that moment that the musician felt an immediate connection to the name Rahman. He embraced it wholeheartedly. Later, it was his mother who chose the initials Allah Rakha (AR) inspired by a dream that she once saw. The transition wasnt met with resistance from those around him. Rahman himself mentioned that his change in faith did not affect his relationships with family or friends. No one around us really cared. We were musicians, and that allowed us greater social freedom, he explained. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. Max OTT Release Update: Kichcha Sudeep recently headlined this mega-actioner which emerged as the highest-grossing Kannada film of 2024. Having arrived in theatres on 25th December, the thriller is finally inching closer to its OTT release. Max will be streaming on Zee5 from February 15, 2025. Max plot summary The story is about Inspector Arjun Mahakshay, who returns to work at a new police station after being suspended for two months. He soon faces a tough situation, where he has to use his brain and strength to protect his team and solve a major problem within 12 hours. The film also features Kiccha Sudeep as a clever and skilled cop, who gets caught up in this dangerous crisis. Using his sharp mind and strategic thinking, he must save his police station and team. Max cast and crew Other than Kiccha, Max also features Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, Samyukta Hornad, Sukrutha Wagle, Sunil, Pramod Shetty, Redin Kingsley, Ilavarasu, Anirudh Bhat, Ugramm Manju, Kamaraju, and Karan Arya in key roles. Directed by Vijay Karthikeyaa, this B. Ajaneesh Loknath musical is produced by Kalaippuli S. Thanu under the banner of V Creations. While Shekar Chandra has cinematographed Max, S. R. Ganesh Baabu has done the editing. Max review The Times of India rated the film 3.5 out of 5 and a part of their review read, For an action film, the dialogues couldve been better. There is no punch dialogue for fans to take home. The movie also lacks a strong villain with a character arc. The thing about action genre movies is, at the end of the day, it is either boom or bust. Max goes boom, with all guns blazing, providing a much-needed theatrical experience, thus, ending the year for KFI, with a big bang. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. An old video interview of the spiritual leader Dalai Lama with an Indian-origin BBC reporter has gone viral on the internet. In the video, both the interviewer and the Dalai Lama are seen having a conversation on immigration, on which the Tesla owner and the tech billionaire Elon Musk have recently reacted in one word. A viral post from 2019 on X (formerly called Twitter) has once again surfaced on social media. In the video, the Dalai Lama spoke against unchecked immigration. What are the Dalai Lama's views on immigration? In 2019, an Indian-origin anchor from the BBC, Rajini Vaidyanathan, got an opportunity to interview the Tibetan Buddhist leader Dalai Lama. While having a conversation, Vaidyanathan asked the spiritual leader his views on Asians immigrating to the West. Vaidyanathan questioned the Dalai Lama that if people from Afghanistan or the Middle East want to stay in Europe, should they not be allowed? To which the Dalai Lama responded, saying,A limited number of people is fine. Is the whole of Europe becoming a Muslim country? Impossible. Or African countriesalso impossible, he added. An Indlan reporter is given the opportunity to interview the Dalai Lama about a number of things, but chooses to focus on lmmlgratlon to The West and asks... Reporter: People from Afghanistan or Africa who want to stay in Europe, shouldn't they be allowed to? Lama: No, Europe pic.twitter.com/sNE0nVAlHr Dane (@UltraDane) January 5, 2025 The statement indicated that he was against uncontrolled immigration to the West. Well, the topic of immigration has come under the radar again because of the appointment of Indian-origin Sriram Krishnan as White House AI advisor. Elon Musk's reaction to the Dalai Lama's old interview video The Indian-origin reporter, in her 2019 interview with the Dalai Lama, asked the spiritual leader why the Asians, Africans, and Middle Easterners moving to Europe should be seen as problematic. Responding to this, the Dalai Lama said, They themselves are better to their own land, climatically." Further, the reporter continued to press her point, saying that her parents moved from India to the United Kingdom, and that's their home now. Is that okay or not? To which the Dalai Lama replied, saying, "If England, a small island, [is filled with] 90% Indians, then I dont know." The whole conversation elicited a one-word reaction from the tech billionaire, Elon Musk. He wrote, "Interesting," responding to the viral clip. It did not end there; several people in the comment section were against immigration. Concerns raised over H-1B visas once again surface The viral clip has once again raised concerns over H1B visas as several right-wing Americans raised concerns about Krishnan removing the cap on H1B visas to allow more Indians to the UK. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending. The first case of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been detected in India, as an eight-month-old baby tests positive for the virus in Bengaluru. Along with this, two more cases have been identified via routine surveillance in a 3-month-old infant in Bengaluru and Gujarat, as ICMR's ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses across the country: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Amid the ongoing scare of the virus spreading in China after five years of COVID-19, the Indian government is closely watching the situation. Moreover, states like Delhi, Maharashtra, Telangana, and other state governments have issued guidelines to ensure preparedness for potential health risks linked to the HMPV virus. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), two cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) have been detected in Karnataka. Both cases were identified through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens. The first case reported in Bengaluru has been confirmed by the Karnataka Health Department. While according to a report of News18, the child does not have any travel history, despite this fact, the eight-month-old has tested positive for the virus. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has detected two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka. Both cases were identified through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens, as part of ICMR's ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses pic.twitter.com/PtKYmgztKb ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025 ICMR says there has been no unusual surge in influenza-like diseases Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a type of respiratory virus that has similar symptoms to the flu. This virus majorly affects individuals with weak immunity, children, and older adults. Amid the case being reported in India, the Centre has issued a statement saying the HMPV is not a new virus and was already in circulation across the world, including India. Further, it added that there has been no unusual surge in influenza-like diseases in the country. However, as ICMR, the 3-month-old infant had a history of bronchopneumonia and was discharged after treatment. To maintain safety, the Centre has issued guidelines by different state governments in the wake of the HMPV scare. Here are the guidelines issued by different states amid HMPV virus spread: Delhi: On Sunday, the Delhi health authorities issued a set of guidelines to ensure preparedness for the potential health dangers linked to HMPV and other respiratory infections. The Delhi government has instructed hospitals, medical professionals, and others to ensure better vigilance and has advised for the isolation of infected individuals. The outbreak of the HMPV virus calls for immediate attention from the Centre. Drawing from our experience with COVID, it's crucial to contain such cases early and be prepared to tackle what could potentially become another health emergency. https://t.co/BbFdyJ6ko6 Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) January 6, 2025 Kerala: The government of Kerala has also asked people to not panic if cases are reported. The Kerala Health Minister, Veena George, has urged higher-risk individuals, such as pregnant women, children, and senior citizens, to take extra precautions like wearing masks and maintaining hygiene. Telangana: The Director of Public Health, B. Ravinder Nayak, in a statement noted that there are no cases of human metapneumovirus so far in Telangana, but higher-risk people are advised to follow precautions. Andhra Pradesh: In a statement, Dr. K. Padmavathi, Director of Public Health and Family Welfare, urged people to not panic amid the rise in cases in China. He recommended people take extra precautions. Maharashtra: The Maharashtra government has intensified its surveillance for severe acute respiratory diseases and influenza-like diseases. For more on lifestyle, astrology and health from around the world please visit Indiatimes Lifestyle. Popular social media influencer and YouTuber Ankush Bahuguna recently shared a horrific incident that happened with him on Instagram, where he was under 'digital arrest' for around 40 hours. Bahuguna, after being absent from social media for three days, opens up about how scammers held him hostage, causing him a major financial loss and significant mental distress. Sharing a video on his Instagram handle, he shared that he was held hostage by some scammers for 40 hours. He lost his money as well as his mental health due to the incident. "I cant believe this has happened to me," he added. Made a big mistake: What's that? Further sharing the details, Bahuguna explained that he received an automated international call (+1 prefix) claiming a cancelled courier delivery. The number seemed like an international number, which he picked up without thinking much. The call was an automated call that said his courier had been cancelled; hence, press zero for support. This was when pressed zero, and following this, the call connected him to someone who alleged his name, which was linked to a package containing illegal items seized by customs, supposedly destined for China. According to Bahuguna, the scammers insisted that his Aadhar number and personal details were connected, placing him under a 'digital arrest.'. Digital arrest linked to money laundering, drug trafficking, and more Bahuguna later explained how the situation escalated quickly and the scammers accused him of money laundering, drug trafficking, and other serious crimes, claiming that he was a 'prime suspect' in a 'national case.'. They also told him that they had an active warrant against him. I was then told I don't have enough time to go to the police station, and he will do me a favour by connecting directly to the police station, Bahuguna explained. Following that, the scammers then transferred him to a WhatsApp video call with someone posing as a police officer in uniform, further intensifying his panic. What is digital arrest? A digital arrest scam is a type of impersonation fraud where scammers pretend to be law enforcement or legal authorities operating through email, text messages, or phone calls. So be aware: if you also get a call from an unknown number claiming the same, Get help immediately. Minister of Citizen Protection Michalis Chrisochoidis has shared a text on social media in which he bids farewell to former Prime Minister Costas Simitis. Chrisochoidis describes him as his "mentor" in politics and stresses that "his term of office was one of the most important milestones in our recent national journey". Chrisochoidis referred with respect to the work of Costas Simitis but also to their relationship that led to his appointment to the Ministry of Public Order with the mandate to deal with terrorism and in particular the dismantling of 17 November. "Costas Simitis is my political conscience, which I cultivated through his example...Our commitment, as an honor to his memory, is the constant struggle for a strong Greece with modern democratic governance and social justice," Chrisochoidis stressed. iefimerida.gr The Minister of National Defence Nikos Dendias attended the celebration of Epiphany in Chios on Monday. In his address to the citizens, he referred to the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) agreements with Italy and Egypt, which he described as legally valid and fully in line with international law. He condemned Turkiyes memorandum with Libya, stressing that the Greek agreements are based on "international law and the international law of the sea". Dendias also stressed that Greece has the national power and will to implement its agreements and defend its sovereign rights in the Eastern Aegean. iefimerida.gr In the Niger Delta region, the 6th Division of the Nigerian Army has apprehended 11 suspected oil thieves, dismantled 21 illegal oil refining sites, and seized 190,000 gallons of stolen petroleum products. The Army attributed these successes to its enhanced operations, which were carried out alongside other security agencies, with the goal of disrupting the criminal networks controlled by oil thieves in the region. Lt. Col. Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of the 6 Division Army Public Relations, confirmed this in a statement issued Sunday night. Advertisement The statement read, In operations conducted across the joint operations area, 21 illegal refining sites were destroyed, 11 suspected oil thieves were arrested, 31 boats used for transporting stolen products were destroyed, and seven vehicles intercepted with over 190,000 litres of stolen products recovered. READ MORE: Police Nab Two Suspects For Stealing, Slaughtering Goat For Babys Naming Ceremony In Ogun The operations were conducted from 30th December 2024 to 5th January 2025. In a deliberate operation around the Oando wellhead at Benkrukru, within the Okordia general area in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, four oil sewages were discovered, containing over 70,000 litres of stolen crude. Additionally, one suction machine and about 700 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (diesel), packed in sacks, were recovered. Similarly, at the Amalaghakiri general area in Nembe LGA, Bayelsa State, two illegal refining sites were dismantled, with over 15,000 litres of stolen products confiscated. At Oyeregbene in Southern Ijaw LGA, one illegal refining site was destroyed, and over 1,500 litres of stolen products were appropriately handled. The statement continued, In Rivers State, around Omoku, troops closed in on oil thieves who fled in disarray on sighting the soldiers. Further operations uncovered an illegal connection point on the Oando Pipeline near Ebocha, with four boats laden with over 22,000 litres of stolen products recovered. At the Obiafu Oil Field in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA, wooden boats and dugout pits stocked with over 8,000 litres of stolen products were neutralised. At Mgbede, four illegal refining sites, five wooden boats, 108 locally made ovens, and several tanks containing over 31,000 litres of stolen products were recovered. At the fringes of the Imo River, over 13,000 litres of stolen products were recovered, and two illegal refining sites were destroyed. Additionally, 32 drum pots, 21 drum receivers, two pumping machines, and several other ancillary items were seized and neutralised around Ozaa West, Obuzor, and Okoloma areas. In Delta State, the 6th Division spokesperson mentioned that during a routine patrol along the Pan Ocean Nigeria Limited Pipeline in Ivade, Ethiope West LGA, troops intercepted vehicles linked to illegal activities. Two J5 Boxer vehicles with registration numbers AB 5980 J and Delta BKW 593 XA, containing over 7,500 litres of stolen products packed in 150 cellophane bags, were intercepted. Additionally, about 2,500 litres of crude oil were recovered at Ikengbensi waterways in Isoko South LGA. Meanwhile, in Akwa Ibom State, troops intercepted eight drums, each containing 280 litres of premium motor spirit (petrol), totalling 2,240 litres, at Ibaka Beach. Danjuma further stated that the intercepted products were believed to have been prepared for smuggling into a neighboring country. Commenting on the operations, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, the General Officer Commanding the 6th Division of the Nigerian Army, praised the troops for their resilience and encouraged them to strengthen their efforts. Major General Abdussalam emphasized that the continued efforts to combat oil theft and illegal refining would foster an environment where socioeconomic activities can thrive without obstruction in the region. A court hearing is scheduled for January 6, in the ongoing defamation case involving Nigerian-American musician Speed Darlington and Afrobeat star Burna Boy. The update follows an announcement by activist and lawyer Deji Adeyanju on Facebook on Sunday, confirming the case will continue on Monday. He wrote, We are in court for Speed Darlington tomorrow morning. Advertisement Speed Darlington has been in detention for several weeks, facing charges of cyberstalking and defamation related to comments he made about Burna Boy on social media. READ MORE: I Blew By Selling Liquor, Now Ill Be Dropping An Album In 2025 Cubana Chief Priest The dispute led to Speed Darlingtons arrest on 27th November during a performance in Owerri, Imo State. Stan Alieke Darlingtons lawyer had argued for his bail, asserting that defamation is no longer a criminal offence in Nigeria. He noted that civil action, not police intervention, should resolve such cases. SEE POST: The North-Central All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum has called on President Bola Tinubu to caution Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), over his alleged alliance with opposition politicians to destabilize the APC in the North-Central zone. According to the Forum, Akumes alliance with Samuel Ortom, immediate past Governor of Benue State, poses a threat to the APC government in the state, led by Governor Hyacinth Alia. The North-Central APC Forum has observed with alarm, the alliance and gang up between the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Senator George Akume, and Chief Samuel Ortom, the immediate past governor, against Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State, the Forum stated on Monday via a statement. . Advertisement The Forum expressed concerns that Akumes actions could destabilize the APC in the North-Central zone, urging President Tinubu to intervene. READ ALSO: Im Not Behind Media Attacks On Gov. Alia George Akume The North-Central APC Forum is asking President Bola Tinubu to watch the SGF, as his alliance with opposition leaders such as Chief Ortom can destabilize the APC in not only Benue but the entire North-Central, the statement released by the groups Chairman, Saleh Zazzaga warned. Furthermore, the Forum accused Akume of prioritizing his personal interests over the development of Benue State and the North-Central zone. The North-Central APC Forum has lost confidence in Senator Akume, the SGF, as his unholy alliance with Chief Ortom shows that he does not care about the development of Benue State and the North-Central zone, the Forum declared. The APC Forum also warned that Akumes alliance with Ortom could have far-reaching consequences for the party in the 2027 elections. The APC cannot afford to lose Benue State in 2027. We call on President Tinubu and other leaders of our great party to act fast to forestall the destabilization of the APC in the North-Central, the Forum urged. Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has said that insecurity challenge in Nigeria will become a thing of the past in 2025. He assured that Nigerias military will decisively tackle and eradicate banditry, terrorism, and other security threats across the country. Speaking during a visit to troops of Operation Safe Have in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, CDS commended the militarys achievements in safeguarding the countys territorial integrity and urged troops to redouble their efforts. Advertisement He praised the dedication and bravery of the troops but stressed the importance of sustaining the momentum. READ MORE: Accidental Strikes: CDS Warns Sokoto Residents Against Harbouring Criminals He said: This year, 2025, will be a decisive year for Nigerias security. We must make it the year we finally eradicate banditry, terrorism, and all forms of insecurity threatening our great nation. We will do more and bring peace to Nigerians. We will work together with other security agencies to achieve the desired goal. We are appealing that Nigerians should not get tired. The enemy is not sleeping so we should not sleep too. The Federal Government has expressed its willingness to make concessions on the contentious Value Added Tax (VAT) structure in the tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly. This was disclosed by Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, during an interview with Arise Television on Sunday. Oyedele emphasized that the proposed VAT structure, based on the Derivative Principle, would benefit all parts of the country, contrary to some claims. Advertisement He noted that if the preference was for the current Attribution Principle, his team was willing to accommodate it. Oyedele said what his committee proposed regarding Value Added Tax would benefit every part of the country. READ ALSO: FG Can Double Revenue Without Heavy Taxes Oyedele He, however, noted that if the preference was for the current state, then his team was willing to oblige. There were two comments that Mr President made. His first point is that we have to do tax reforms. We cannot continue with the laws of the colonial era and hope that Nigeria will become a developed country. This tax system is holding us back. Then after a few other questions, someone asked a question again about whether he was willing to move and make a compromise, and he said, Yes. So his point is that we have to carry out tax reform. That is what is non-negotiable. Otherwise, we will be missing out on a significant opportunity to move Nigeria forward. But in terms of the details of those bills, everything is up for grabs. I can tell you, as we speak today, if they want us to keep the current VAT formula, well keep it 100 percent. So, the fact that people keep using the problem we are trying to solve against us is what I need to understand, Oyedele said. In a breakthrough development, the suspect involved in the recent fuel theft incident in Ekiti State has been apprehended and is currently in police custody. Information Nigeria had reported that the Honda Accord driver made off with N58,000 worth of fuel without paying. According to the X user, Liltuffsb, who gave previous details, the suspects name is Abilomu Adedoyin. Advertisement It came to light on Monday that the vehicle used in the crime was sold to him two years ago, in 2023, with the plate number still bearing the previous owners details. In a stunning twist, another fuel station has come forward, alleging that the same individual had committed a similar crime at their establishment. READ ALSO: Ekiti: Customer Zooms Off After Filling Car With Over N58,000 Fuel Without Paying THE CRIMINAL HAS BEEN APPREHENDED and is in police custody! His name is ABILOMU ADEDOYIN NOTE: The vehicle was sold to him 2 years ago (2023) with the plate no. Every detail attached to the vehicle is not his but the previous owner. Another fuel station has come to identify the same man to have done the same thing to them, the X user added. This revelation might raise concerns about the suspects possible involvement in a series of fuel thefts in the area. The police are expected to investigate these claims further and charge the suspect accordingly, however, the State police command is yet to comment on the arrest as at the time of filing this report. The Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, Chijioke Ihunwo, has banned refilling of gas cylinders at residential areas. INFORMATION NIGERIA reports that the development is coming, after 18 persons, were killed during a gas explosion at the Orazi axis of the local government on the 4th of January, 2025. It was gathered that Obio/Akpor LG Chairman, Ihunwo ordered the ban when he visited the s? affected area on Monday. Advertisement He said: Its quite unfortunate that this is happening this early in the new year, I am saddened because of the number of persons affected, I was briefed about this incident that is why I am here to sympathise with those who lost their loved ones. READ MORE: 18 Persons Injured In Rivers Gas Explosion Police As a local government, we are going to foot the bills of those who are injured and receiving treatment at the hospital, as a responsive administration we cannot allow our people to suffer this alone, we share in their pains. Let me also announce here and now that henceforth, no one is permitted to run a gas refilling business in residential areas within Obio/Akpor and to ensure that we put lawbreakers to check. I will be putting in place a special committee with the mandate to move into the various streets and roads to enforce compliance. I also enjoin Community Development Committee chairmen and youth leaders in the various communities to join this campaign so we can save lives and property of our people, anyone caught defying this ban will be arrested and made to face the law. Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, have arrested a Nollywood filmmaker, identified as Emeka Emmanuel Mbadiwe, over alleged involvement in illicit drug shipment. INFORMATION NIGERIA reports that Mr. Mbadiwe, who is also a motivational speaker, was apprehended on the 27th of December, 2024, in his hotel room, located in Lekki, Lagos State. It was gathered that the development is coming, after the arrest of his partner, Uzoekwe Ugochukwu James, earlier that same day at a warehouse in Ajao Estate, Ikeja. Advertisement This was contained in a statement by the agencys Spokesman, Femi Babafemi, on Sunday. READ MORE: NDLEA Nabs Socialite For Illicit Drugs Shipments In Lagos Babafemi disclosed that James was sent by Mbadiwe to retrieve a shipment of 33 parcels of Loud, a potent strain of cannabis weighing 17.30 kilograms. He added that the shipment arrived at the import shed of Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, on December 24, 2024, from the United States on a Delta Airlines flight, concealed in large wooden boxes. The statement partly reads: In another major operation, NDLEA officers on Friday 27th December 2024 arrested a US-trained Hollywood and Nollywood filmmaker, Emeka Emmanuel Mbadiwe, who is also a motivational speaker at his Lekki Hotel room following the arrest of his partner, Uzoekwe Ugochukwu James, earlier same day at a warehouse in Ajao estate Ikeja, where he was sent by Mbadiwe to collect a shipment of 33 parcels of Loud, a strong strain of cannabis weighing 17.30 kilograms, which arrived the Import shed of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA Ikeja on 24th December 2024 from the United States on a Delta Airline flight, concealed in large wooden boxes. Former Niger Delta avenger, Alhaji Mujahid Asari-Dokubo, has called on the Kalabaris home and in diaspora to invest in Nigeria in a bid to boost societal and national development. Speaking on Sunday in his New Year goodwill message to monarchs, chiefs, elites, and the masses of the Kalabari kingdom, Asari-Dokubo called for unity and a collective effort to improve the region. He also urged Niger Delta indigens in abroad to stop acquiring properties in other communities. Advertisement The former avenger also begged youths in Kalabari land should end cultism and violent activities. Asari-Dokubo said: Our people need to come back home to build houses here instead of buying land in other communities. READ MORE: No Collaboration With Asari-Dokubos Security Outfit Army I urge my fellow Kalabari brothers and sisters worldwide to set up businesses here that will boost the economy of the Kalabari Kingdom and provide jobs for our people. Our region is rich in oil and gas with opportunities in marine transportation. There are huge possibilities in agriculture and tourism development and many other avenues for viable investments. Our people need to come back home to build houses here instead of buying land in other communities. I urge my fellow Kalabari brothers and sisters worldwide to set up businesses here that will boost the economy of the Kalabari Kingdom and provide jobs for our people. Our region is rich in oil and gas with opportunities in marine transportation. There are huge possibilities in agriculture and tourism development and many other avenues for viable investments. Three Nigerian women, Hadiza Abba, Fatima Malah, and Fatima Gamboi, have been released by the Saudi Arabian government after spending 10 months in detention for alleged possession of cocaine. According to Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesman of Nigerias Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the womens release followed high-level diplomatic engagements between the Nigerian government and Saudi authorities. The women were arrested on March 5, 2024, at Prince Mohammad bin Abdul Azeez International Airport, Madinah, Saudi Arabia, while on pilgrimage. Advertisement Ebienfa stated in a statement on Sunday, The arrest of the three women was a result of the earlier arrest of two Nigerian nationals who were found in possession of 80 capsules of Cocaine weighing 900.28 gm and 70 capsules of Cocaine weighing 789.5gm, respectively. READ ALSO: Police Rescue Four Kidnap Victims, Neutralize Two, Recover Weapons In Imo The women were detained by Saudi authorities on suspicion of being accomplices and abetting the trafficking of the banned substance. Their release, Ebeinfa said, was achieved after prolonged diplomatic and legal engagements, which culminated in their discharge and acquittal, as well as their subsequent handover to the Consulate-General of Nigeria in Jeddah. Ambassador Muazam Nayaya, Consul-General of Nigeria in Jeddah, received the women, who are currently awaiting immigration processes for their return to Nigeria. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is poised to regain power at the national level and secure more governorship positions in 2027, according to the partys National Working Committee (NWC). This declaration was made on Sunday during a visit to Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, at his country home in Sampou, Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area. Alhaji Ahmed Yayare, the partys National Treasurer, emphasized that widespread dissatisfaction and economic hardship have created a fertile ground for PDPs resurgence. Advertisement The disenchantment across the country is palpable. PDP will produce more governors in 2027 because Nigerians are yearning for change. If we do not take over the leadership of the country, it could mark the end of democracy in Nigeria, Yayare said. READ ALSO: Buhari Took Nigeria 50 Years Back, Tinubu Trying To Take Us 100 Years Backward PDP Chieftain Yayare also underscored PDPs position as the only credible opposition capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Nothing stops PDP from producing the president and vice president in 2027. The cry of hunger and poverty is too much in the land. The 36 states of Nigeria are yearning for PDPs return. The NWC plans to visit PDP-governed states, urging party governors to close ranks and align strategies ahead of the next general election. PDP National Secretary, Ude Okoye, reaffirmed the NWCs commitment to repositioning the party and presenting Nigerians with a viable leadership alternative. Governor Diri stressed the need for unity among PDP governors, calling on them to prioritize collective progress over personal interests. We need to work closely together and do what is right without fear or favour. Consensus-building should always be our first option for resolving issues, Diri stated. A tragic petrol tanker explosion on Sunday afternoon in Agbor, Delta State, has claimed the lives of four people. The incident took place along the old Lagos-Asaba Road, near First Bank and Access Bank, after a tanker, which was said to be carrying petrol, lost control. The state government disclosed that the fire claimed the lives of four individuals. Advertisement However, an eyewitness told SaharaReporters that at least five people died in the explosion, while the police command confirmed two fatalities. The fire quickly spread, consuming the tanker and nearby buildings. READ MORE: Police Nab Two Suspects For Stealing, Slaughtering Goat For Babys Naming Ceremony In Ogun According to an eyewitness, the blaze was so fierce that people were fleeing in all directions. The explosion also resulted in extensive damage to buildings in the vicinity, including First Bank and Access Bank. In viral videos, residents caught in the destructive blaze were seen fleeing for safety as the tanker and surrounding buildings were engulfed in flames. Governor Sheriff Oborevwori expressed deep regret over the incident, stating four people were killed and three others were injured. In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor described the incident as horrific and expressed his condolences to the families of the victims, while also praying for the swift recovery of those injured. It is with a heavy heart that I commiserate with the people of Ika South Local Government and the affected families. This tragic incident is deeply saddening. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their loved ones at this difficult time, the statement read. Police operatives attached to Ebonyi State Command have arrested 17 suspected killers of one Uromchi Okorocha, in Enohia Itim village, Afikpo Local Government Area of the state. It was gathered that the deceased, who was murdered on the 3rd of January, 2025, was accused of joining others in killing of several individuals through alleged witchcraft. Disclosing this in a statement on Sunday, Force Spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi, said that the suspects had mobilised and apprehended Mr. Okorocha, but instead of handing him over to security agents, they decided to take laws into their hands. Advertisement He added that the police operatives of the Uwanna Division mobilised tactical teams to the scene on a rescue mission but the angry mob had already killed and burned Mr Okorocha before the arrival of the Police team. READ MORE: Police Rescue Four Kidnap Victims, Neutralize Two, Recover Weapons In Imo The statement reads: The suspects had mobilized and apprehended the deceased, but instead of handing him over to legal authorities and committing to the rule of law, they decided to take laws into their hands, becoming judge, jury and executioner. The police operatives of the Uwanna Division mobilized tactical teams to the scene on a rescue mission, but the angry mob had already killed and burned Mr Okorocha before the arrival of the Police team. Citizens are once again urged to refrain from taking laws into their hands and report any suspected criminal activities to the nearest police division or formation around them for necessary action. Some gunmen suspected to be bandits have killed the Katsina State Acting Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Alhaji Amadu Surajo. It was gathered that the terrorist group, on Saturday invaded Mai Rana village, Kusada Local Government Area of the state, leaving Mr.Surajo dead. INFORMATION NIGERIA learnt that two other persons were also killed and several others wounded during the attack which took place at 11:30 pm. Advertisement In a statement by the Katsina State Police Commands Spokesman, Abubakar Sadiq on Sunday, disclosed that the gunmen invaded the residence of Mr. Surajo, shot him and kidnapped his wife and daughter. READ MORE: Katsina Police Thwart Kidnap Attempt, Rescue 18 Travellers He said: A gun duel ensued when the operatives tracked the assailants to Kofa village, forcing the bandits to flee due to the operatives superior firepower. Unfortunately, two (2) persons were fatally shot by the bandits during their escape. Efforts are being intensified to ensure the arrest of the fleeing suspects. Further development will be communicated as the investigation proceeds. At least two yet to be identified persons have been killed after an explosion hit Tsangagyar Sani Uthman Islamiyya School in Kuchibuyi Village, Byazhin area in Abuja. In a statement by Federal Capital Territory Police Commands Spokesperson, Josephine Adeh on Monday, disclosed that the incident occurred on Monday. She added that team of police operatives, including the Commands Explosive Ordnance Disposal team was mobilised to the scene. Advertisement Adeh noted that the school owner, Mallam Adamu Ashimu, has been taken into custody for further investigation. She said: The area was immediately cordoned off to protect residents and facilitate a thorough investigation. READ MORE: FCT Police Arrest Mother For Abandoning Newborn Baby Preliminary investigations revealed that three men from Katsina had visited the owner of the Islamic school, Mallam Adamu Ashimu. The three visitors are suspected of having brought the explosive device with them. Tragically, two of the men died in the explosion while tampering with the improvised explosive device (IED), on the school Veranda, while the third man and a female trader sustained severe injuries and are currently receiving treatment under police guard. The FCT Bomb Squad has confirmed that it was an IED explosion, as remnants of the device have been recovered. Tanzania's Zanzibar president praises Chinese firm for modern bus station construction Xinhua) 11:04, January 06, 2025 DAR ES SALAAM, Jan. 5 (Xinhua) -- Tanzania's Zanzibar President Hussein Ali Mwinyi has praised a Chinese firm for constructing a modern bus station at Kijangwani on Unguja Island. Speaking at the unveiling ceremony of the bus station, as part of activities ahead of the 61st anniversary of the Zanzibar Revolution on Jan. 12, Mwinyi commended the efficient execution and high-quality construction capabilities of China Railway Jianchang Engineering Company (CRJE) (East Africa) Limited during the project construction. He noted that the completed project would not only significantly enhance travel conditions for residents but also boost the local economy, improve overall convenience, and inject economic vitality into the region. Gao Yuqi, manager of CRJE's Zanzibar branch, said the station, Zanzibar's first modern large-scale bus terminal, includes three waiting areas, over 70 bus parking spots, 128 shops, more than 4,000 square meters of outdoor sidewalks, and over 12,000 square meters of concrete driveways. He added that the concrete driveways feature offices, power generation and distribution rooms, private parking spaces, and other facilities, covering an area of 16,000 square meters. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Trump supporters trying to break into the U.S. Capitol building on Jan. 6, 2021. Read more South Jersey native Christian Alfonso already pleaded guilty to participating in the attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021 admitting last year that he followed a mob into the building, then took photos in the office of then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Another local Jan. 6 defendant, meanwhile Robert Ciottoni of Willow Grove was charged last year with walking through the ornate halls amid the riot that day, and his trial is scheduled to begin later this month. Advertisement But in recent weeks, attorneys for both men have asked federal judges to delay forthcoming court proceedings due to the impending inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, who has promised to pardon scores of Jan. 6 defendants as soon as he is sworn in for his next term. To proceed with this trial under the shadow of these political realities would not only risk rendering the process moot, but would also squander the limited resources of this [c]ourt and the Department of Justice, Ciottonis attorney, Assistant Federal Defender Jonathan McDonald, wrote in court documents. Alfonsos attorney, David Castellani, said moving ahead with his sentencing on Jan. 10 less than two weeks before Trump is sworn in again would be simply unnecessary. Mr. Alfonso is expecting to be relieved of the criminal prosecution that he is currently facing when the new administration takes office, Castellani wrote. Judges denied both requests. But the developments underscore the suddenly unsettled reality surrounding the Jan. 6 prosecutions exactly four years after the attack. The Justice Department in what it has called its biggest investigation ever has charged more than 1,500 people with ransacking the building and participating in the violent melee that sought to block certification of President Joe Bidens 2020 electoral victory. More than 1,000 people have since been convicted of offenses ranging from trespassing to seditious conspiracy, the department said. About 10% of those charged have been from Pennsylvania or New Jersey, including Zach Rehl, a Philadelphian and one of the leaders of the far-right Proud Boys, a group that prosecutors said helped incite the assault. But both on the campaign trail and as president-elect, Trump repeatedly called the Justice Departments investigation politically motivated and corrupt, and described some of those charged as patriots and hostages. Beyond seeking delays in their cases to await Trumps return to power, at least a few defendants have asked courts for permission to attend his inauguration. And one Indiana man awaiting sentencing fled to Canada to seek political asylum until Trump returns to the White House. Trumps transition team declined to provide specifics on whom he might pardon, or whether he would take different actions depending on the charges in question.. President Trump will pardon Americans who were denied due process and unfairly prosecuted by the weaponized Department of Justice, Karoline Leavitt, a spokesperson for Trumps transition team, said in an email to The Inquirer. Here are some of the local residents who could benefit from Trumps clemency, depending on which course he decides to take. Zach Rehl The former president of the Philadelphia Proud Boys chapter was one of the most significant figures to be convicted by federal prosecutors in Washington. The Port Richmond native and three other Proud Boys leaders were found guilty in 2023 of charges including seditious conspiracy for riling up the mob that stormed the Capitol. Rehl was then ordered to serve 15 years in federal prison, one of the longest sentences handed down for any Jan. 6 defendant. At his sentencing hearing, Rehl called Jan. 6 a despicable day and said he was done with politics and done peddling lies for other people who dont care about me. Still, he has appealed his conviction; that effort remains pending. At least one of Rehls codefendants has publicly indicated that he intends to seek a pardon from Trump. An attorney for Rehl, 39, did not respond last week to requests for comment on whether he plans to do the same. Julian Khater Khater a native of Somerset, N.J., who later ran a smoothie shop in State College, Pa. was sentenced in 2023 to six years in prison after he pleaded guilty to deploying pepper spray against police officers trying to protect the Capitol. One of the officers Khater sprayed was Officer Brian Sicknick, who collapsed at the scene and died the next day. Sicknick was later found to have died of natural causes, but the medical examiner said his condition was likely worsened by the chaotic scene he encountered while confronting the mob. Khater was not charged with causing Sicknicks death, nor was his codefendant, George Tanios, a childhood friend who lived in Morgantown, W.Va. Still, at Khaters sentencing hearing, Sicknicks mother said he attacked my son like he was an animal. Khater remains imprisoned at a low-security facility in Connecticut. His attorneys did not respond to requests for comment last week about whether he has sought, or will seek, a pardon. Convicted of misdemeanors Not all of those convicted were accused of crimes of violence. West Chester native Gary Wickersham, 84, spent about 20 minutes inside the Capitol shortly after other protesters initially breached the building. He confronted law enforcement officers while inside, prosecutors said, but did not possess a weapon and left on his own. Wickersham one of the oldest people arrested for participating in the riot pleaded guilty in 2021 to a single misdemeanor charge and was sentenced to 90 days of house arrest and three years probation. Dawn Bancroft of Doylestown was also convicted of one misdemeanor count of illegally demonstrating on Capitol grounds. She admitted filming a video during the attack in which she said she was looking for Pelosi (D., Calif.) to shoot her in the friggin brain. Bancroft later said that was a stupid, juvenile comment. She was sentenced to 60 days in jail followed by three years probation. Bucks County Republicans also voted in 2022 to oust her from her position as an elected committeeperson. And Gary Edwards of Churchville, Bucks County, was sentenced to a year of probation after pleading guilty in 2021 to one count of parading, demonstrating, or picketing in the Capitol for spending 20 minutes inside the building, including walking into a U.S. senators office. Edwards was the first Philadelphia-area defendant to be convicted for participating in the riot. Pardons by Trump would wipe those convictions off their records. Attempts to reach Wickersham, Bancroft, and Edwards to ask if they would be seeking pardons were unsuccessful. Dozens of local pending cases Dozens more local residents, meanwhile, have cases that remain pending meaning a pardon by Trump would kill their prosecution before it has concluded. Alfonso, the South Jersey native who took photos in Pelosis office, is among them. His attempt to reschedule his Jan. 10 sentencing hearing was rejected last month by U.S. District Judge Reggie B. Walton. The judge wrote in an order that he was unconvinced that seeking a pardon from the newly-elected President no matter how likely the defendant believes his request will be granted is sufficient enough basis to [delay] his sentencing hearing. Alfonso, who pleaded guilty in September to disorderly conduct and parading or picketing at the Capitol, faces a maximum jail sentence of 12 months, according to court documents. Ciottoni the Willow Grove man whose trial is set to begin later this month was also rebuffed in his attempt to postpone his proceedings indefinitely. Still, Ciottoni did score a potential victory. Because he agreed to have his case heard by a judge, and not a jury, the first date of his trial was pushed back by a day, to Jan. 23, court records show. Trumps inauguration is scheduled for Jan. 20, and he has promised to start doling out pardons on day one meaning Ciottonis relief could arrive the same week his trial is set to begin. Other local defendants awaiting sentencing include Isaiah Giddings, a member of the Philadelphia Proud Boys chapter who has admitted storming the Capitol alongside Rehl and other convicted Proud Boys. Giddings pleaded guilty in 2022 to a count of disorderly conduct on restricted grounds and is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 27. Other trials involving local defendants are currently scheduled to occur through the spring and as late as July, court records show. Pardons by Trump could wipe those cases from the record, preventing any evidence from being put before a jury and preempting future convictions over Jan. 6. Philadelphia police officers outside 1816 West Diamond Street in North Philadelphia after a double fatal shooting on Dec. 19. Read more A Philadelphia man has been arrested for a double murder inside a North Philadelphia home last month, police said Monday. Bilal Simmons, 46, was charged with murder and related crimes after police say he fatally shot Jocelynn Marshall, 36, and Terrell Sanders, 39, after an argument that turned violent. Advertisement Police arrested Simmons on the 1700 block of North 23rd Street, where he lived, around 11:30 a.m. Sunday, said Police Deputy Commissioner Frank Vanore. On the afternoon of Dec. 19, he said, officers responded to Sanders home on the 1800 block of Diamond Street and found him and Marshall with multiple gunshot wounds. The two were pronounced dead at the scene. Marshall and Sanders had gotten into an argument with Simmons, who eventually took out a gun and started shooting, striking both, Vanore said. Investigators used surveillance footage and other evidence to link Simmons to the crime, he said. It was unclear whether a weapon was recovered. Hama chili, as served at Uchi. The Austin, Texas-based restaurant is opening at 1620 Sansom St. Read more Uchi , a high-style, fine-dining Japanese restaurant from James Beard Award-winning chef Tyson Cole and his Austin, Texas-based group Hai Hospitality, will join a recent parade of out-of-town restaurant groups setting up in the Philadelphia area . Hai has signed a lease for a ground-floor space at the Josephine, the new high-rise at 1620 Sansom St. The projected opening is late 2025, setting the scene for a collection of new, big-budget Japanese restaurants within several blocks in the Rittenhouse Square area. Advertisement Hais in-house design team will work with Philadelphias Rohe Creative, whose most recent local restaurant project is Dear Daphni . Renderings are not yet available, though its known that Philadelphias Uchi will have 165 seats, with 24 of them shared between the bar and sushi bar, and 14 in an outdoor seating area. Uchi debuted in 2003 in a refurbished bungalow the name means house and has expanded to seven locations around the country. A location in Charlotte, N.C., is being readied for 2025, while new deals are on the table in the Washington and New York markets, said Tony Montero, Hais chief executive. Hais offshoot brands include Uchiko, Uchiba, and LORO Asian Smokehouse & Bar, a collaboration with Aaron Franklin of Austins vaunted Franklin Barbecue. At Uchi, whose Philadelphia budget is over $5 million, we take the sushi bar experience and bring it to the table, Montero said. What I mean by that is when you order, say, eight different types of nigiri pieces, theyre going to come out separately, or maybe two at a time, so that you feel like youre at the sushi bar. Philadelphia has been on Hais radar since 2018, said Doug Green of MSC, who brokered the deal. Hais then-president, Daryl Kulik, visited for what Green called very soft recon. The pandemic shut down the search. When it resumed in early 2024, the Josephine was well under construction and a deal there for the New York restaurant Boqueria had just fallen through. Green connected Uchi with the developer, Southern Land Co., who got it. (There is a further Philadelphia connection: Hais growth is funded by KSL Capital Partners, the private-equity group that in 2023 bought Hersha Hospitality , operator of the Rittenhouse Hotel.) Philly is perfect for us because the city has so much soul and character, Cole said in a statement. A Japanese restaurant boom The Rittenhouse Japanese dining scene is expected to heat up this year. Royal Sushi & Izakayas Jesse Ito and Justin Bacharach , with partners Stephen Simons and David Frank, are hoping for a summer opening of dancerobot , an izakaya, at 1710 Sansom St., a block from Uchis future site. Dancerobot will serve brunch and a comfort food menu (such as the meal sets known as teishoku) plus Japanese takes on classic dishes but no sushi. Two other big-budget Japanese restaurants are on the way nearby. Kissho House, due in late winter in a brownstone at 1522 Locust St., is backed by Hiroki alumnus chef Zhengmao Jeff Chen. He plans a dining room on the ground floor as well as an omakase experience in the basement. Also, impresario Teddy Sourias is building an unnamed Japanese-influenced restaurant in the courtyard at 1515 Market St. Incidentally, Center Citys oldest Japanese restaurant Shiroi Hana, which opened in 1984 went on the market in December. It remains open for business with an asking price of $2 million. The chef behind Uchi Cole, 54, a native Floridian, moved to the Houston suburbs while in grade school and then to Austin to study at the University of Texas. He was broke when he got a dishwashers job at a Japanese restaurant called Kyoto hes said he had never tried sushi and had no formal culinary training. Cole immersed himself in the food and was promoted to sushi chef, but had to work in the back to maintain the appearance of an all-Japanese sushi counter. Eventually, Cole won a spot out front and rose to head sushi chef. After moving to another Austin sushi restaurant, Musashino, Cole apprenticed under its owner, who took him to Japan and taught him Japanese. Cole later staged at BondST in New York before returning to Musashino on his way to opening Uchi. Uchis menu included fresh fish flown in daily to landlocked Austin and such edgy combinations as aguro sashimi and goat cheese, which is paired slices of bluefin tuna and Fuji apple with local goat cheese, topped with sanbaizu sauce, pumpkin seed oil, and shiso garnish. Cole won the Beard award in 2011 for Best Chef, Southwest, and was a semifinalist in 2016 for Outstanding Chef. A patient being treated for a brain bleed at St. Mary Medical Center last fall was given more than twice the necessary amount of an anti-blood clot medication after a nurse incorrectly reported their weight. The patients weight of 125 pounds was reported as 125 kilograms the equivalent of 275 pounds in a pharmacy order for enoxaparin, an anticoagulant that is dosed based on patient weight. The mistake drew one of the Pennsylvania Health Departments harshest warnings for the 373-bed Langhorne hospital. Inspectors say nursing staff there failed to follow medication protocol, creating potentially life-threatening safety gaps. Its unclear what happened to the patient, but medical experts said that an overdose of the anticoagulant could put a patient at significant risk of severe bleeding. Advertisement Hospitals, including St. Mary Medical Center, have strict protocols to avoid such mistakes. Nurses must weigh patients immediately before ordering medications that are dosed based on the patients weight. Under standard protocol, hospitals are supposed to weigh patients as soon as possible after theyre admitted, and not rely on patients to report their own weight. Incorrect patient weights commonly contribute to dosage mistakes, despite a decades-long push from safety agencies, such as the Institute for Safe Medication Practices, for hospitals to standardize how and when they record this information. Its always a system issue, said Daniel Abazia, director of Rutgers Medication-Use Safety and Information Center, who is not involved in the St. Mary case. Its never just one thing that fails. Pennsylvania hospitals reported just over 45,000 medication errors in 2023, up 12% from the year before, according to data submitted by hospitals across the state to the Patient Safety Authority, a state agency that monitors serious safety events. Of those cases, 294 were considered serious events, meaning a patient died or was injured and required additional care. The most recent 2023 PSA report does not break down how many medication errors are related to incorrect weights. But the agency has been tracking the link since at least 2009, when it analyzed hundreds of medication errors related to incorrect weights. In 2016, PSA looked at another 1,200 medication errors related to incorrect patient weight that were reported by hospitals across the state, and found that nearly a quarter were due to confusion between metric and pound weights. St. Mary Medical Centers sister hospital, Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital in Darby, is being sued by a patient who was left paralyzed and unable to speak after receiving a muscle paralytic instead of the COVID-19 medication prescribed. Both hospitals are owned by Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic. In response to the October incident, St. Mary Medical Center updated its policies to require that each patients weight be checked twice and set its electronic medical record to prevent medication requests from being filled without adding a new weight. At St. Mary Medical Center, patient safety is our highest priority, and we take any safety incident extremely seriously, Jason Griffith, a spokesperson for Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic, said in a statement. While privacy laws prevent us from sharing specific details, we want to assure the community that the well-being of our patients is at the heart of everything we do. He declined to say what happened to the patient or the nurse who made the mistake. READ MORE: A hospital mistake almost killed him Botched medication order Enoxaparin, or Lovenox, is commonly used at hospitals among patients who must be confined to bed, as inactivity puts them at greater risk for developing a blood clot, said Talitha Pulvino, a clinical associate professor at Temple Universitys School of Pharmacy. She is not involved in the St. Mary case. The drug, administered by injection into the abdomen, helps prevent blood clots by thinning the blood. But too much could lead to severe bleeding, if the patient had an existing bleeding injury or hurt themselves while on the medication, Pulvino said. The St. Mary Medical Center patient had been admitted Oct. 1 for a right-sided frontal acute subdural hematoma, a type of severe head injury with internal bleeding typically caused by a fall, car accident, or blow to the head. READ MORE: Nine months of inspections at St. Mary Medical Center: January to September Health department inspectors found that a nurse broke hospital protocol two days later by failing to weigh the patient before ordering enoxaparin. Instead, the nurse gave the pharmacy a weight recorded when the patient was admitted to the emergency department. The nurse reported the patients weight of 125 pounds as 125 kilograms the equivalent of 275 pounds. The pharmacy sent an internal message to the patients care team asking them to double check that the weight was correct. The nurse replied with a yes but the facility determined a weight was not obtained, inspectors wrote in the report. The inspection report does provide details about the patient, such as their age or gender, and does not describe their medical treatment including whether they were previously prescribed a blood thinner and what happened when they received an excessive dose. Preventing weight-related medication errors Consistently recording accurate patient weights has been a challenge at hospitals for years, said Abazia, a clinical associate professor at Rutgers who specializes in medication and patient safety. Life-threatening medical problems often take precedent when a patient arrives through the emergency department, and busy staffers may unintentionally put off gathering basic details like weight, he said. Pennsylvanias Patient Safety Authority studied about 1,200 cases in which incorrect weight contributed to a medication error between 2008 and 2015. Confusion between pounds and kilograms was the second-most common mistake, accounting for some 300 medication errors during that time. Enoxaparin was incorrectly administered in 8% of the cases, second only to heparin, another anticoagulant. TORONTO Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation Monday after nearly a decade in power, bowing to rising discontent over his leadership and growing turmoil within his government signaled by the abrupt departure of his finance minister. Trudeau, the latest incumbent to be driven out by rising voter dissatisfaction worldwide, said it became clear to him that he cannot be the leader during the next elections due to internal battles. He planned to stay on as prime minister until a new leader of the Liberal Party is chosen. Advertisement I dont easily back down faced with a fight, especially a very important one for our party and the country. But I do this job because the interests of Canadians and the well being of democracy are something that I hold dear, said Trudeau, who was initially teary-eyed at the announcement outside his official residence. He said Parliament, which had been due to resume Jan. 27, would be suspended until March 24. The timing will allow for a Liberal Party leadership race. All three main opposition parties have said they plan to topple the Liberal Party in a no-confidence vote when Parliament resumes, so a spring election after the Liberals pick a new leader was almost assured. The Liberal Party of Canada is an important institution in the history of our great country and democracy. A new prime minister and leader of the Liberal Party will carry its values and ideals into that next election, Trudeau said. I am excited to see that process unfold in the months ahead. Trudeau came to power in 2015 after 10 years of Conservative Party rule and was initially hailed for returning the country to its liberal past. But the 53-year-old scion of one of Canadas most famous prime ministers became deeply unpopular with voters in recent years over a range of issues, including the soaring cost of food and housing, and surging immigration. Speaking in a recorded message posted on X, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre said Canadians desperate to turn the page on this dark chapter in our history might be relieved that Trudeau is leaving. But what has really changed? Every Liberal MP in power today and every potential Liberal leadership contender fighting for the top job helped Justin Trudeau break the country over the last nine years. Other opposition leaders added their own criticism, including Jagmeet Singh, who leads the leftist New Democratic Party. It doesnt matter who the next Liberal is. Theyve let you down. They do not deserve another chance, said Singh, who propped up Trudeaus party for years. The president of the Liberal party, Sachit Mehra, said party members were immensely grateful to Trudeau for delivering transformational progress for Canadians, including $10-a-day child care, dental care and a national climate plan. Mehra said he would call a meeting this week to begin selecting a new leader. The political upheaval comes at a difficult moment for Canada internationally. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to impose 25% tariffs on all Canadian goods if the government does not stem what Trump calls a flow of migrants and drugs in the U.S. even though far fewer of them cross into the U.S. from Canada than from Mexico, which Trump has also threatened. Canada is a major exporter of oil and natural gas to the U.S., which also relies on its northern neighbor for steel, aluminum and automobiles. After Trudeaus announcement, Trump, who for weeks has referred to Canada as the 51st state, did so again and incorrectly claimed on social media that the prime minister resigned because Canada relies on subsidies from the U.S. to stay afloat. Trudeau kept publicly mum in recent weeks, despite intensifying pressure for him to step down. His long silence following this political drama speaks volumes about the weakness of his current position, said Daniel Beland, a political science professor at McGill University in Montreal. Canadas former finance minister, Chrystia Freeland, announced her resignation from Trudeaus Cabinet on Dec. 16, criticizing some of Trudeaus economic priorities in the face of Trumps threats. The move, which came shortly after the housing minister quit, stunned the country and raised questions about how much longer the increasingly unpopular Trudeau could stay in his job. Freeland and Trudeau had disagreed about two recently announced policies: a temporary sales tax holiday on goods ranging from childrens clothes to beer, and plans to send every citizen a check for $250 Canadian ($174). Freeland, who was also deputy prime minister, said Canada could not afford costly political gimmicks. Our country is facing a grave challenge, Freeland wrote in her resignation letter. That means keeping our fiscal powder dry today, so we have the reserves we may need for a coming tariff war. Trudeau had planned to run for a fourth term despite his partys displeasure. Prime ministers in Canada can stay in office as long as their government or party has the confidence of a majority in the House of Commons, but no Canadian prime minister in more than a century has won four straight terms. Trudeaus party recently suffered upsets in special elections in two districts in Toronto and Montreal that it has held for years. And based on the latest polls, his chances for success looked slim. In the latest poll by Nanos, the Liberals trailed Conservatives 47% to 21%. Over his long tenure, Trudeau embraced an array of causes favored by his liberal base. He spoke in favor of immigration at a time other countries were trying to tighten their borders. He championed diversity and gender equality, appointing a Cabinet that was equal parts men and women. He legalized cannabis. His efforts to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental protection were criticized by both the right and left. He levied a tax on carbon emissions and rescued a stalled pipeline expansion project to get more of Albertas oil to international markets. Fewer people died from COVID-19 in Canada than elsewhere, and his government provided massive financial support. But animosity grew among those opposed to vaccine mandates. Flags with Trudeaus name and expletives became a common sight in rural regions. A combination of scandal and unpopular policies damaged his prospects over time. Trudeaus father swept to power in 1968 and led Canada for almost 16 years, becoming a storied name in the countrys history, most notably by opening its doors wide to immigrants. Pierre Trudeau was often compared to John F. Kennedy and remains one of the few Canadian politicians who are recognized in the U.S. Born while his father was prime minister, the younger Trudeau became an international celebrity upon being elected. He appeared on the cover of Americas Rolling Stone magazine under the headline Why Cant He Be Our President? Tall and trim, with movie-star looks, Justin Trudeau channeled the star power if not quite the political heft of his father. He became the second-youngest prime minister in Canadas history, and rivals said his age was a liability when he first sought office. But he won a sweeping mandate in a come-from-behind victory in 2015. Trudeau is a former teacher, nightclub bouncer and snowboard instructor who has three children with his ex-wife, a former model and TV host. On the 2024 presidential campaign trail, Gov. Josh Shapiro frequently called Donald Trump an existential threat to American democracy. As Pennsylvanias attorney general, he regularly boasted about suing and beating Trumps first administration. But this year, as Trump takes the Oval Office again and Shapiro eyes the 2028 Democratic presidential ticket, the Pennsylvania governor has a new, more amiable game plan: Work together as long as it doesnt compromise residents fundamental freedoms. Advertisement Shapiro is among a handful of 2028 presidential hopefuls who have taken early positions on how they will work with a second Trump administration, with some Democratic governors in blue states going on offense ahead of another Trump term and others, like Shapiro, in swing states taking a more reserved approach. Gov. Gavin Newsom, of deep-blue California, quickly convened a special session of the states legislature to Trump-proof the state. In Illinois, another reliably blue state, Gov. JB Pritzker issued a warning the day after Trumps win: You come for my people, you come through me. Meanwhile, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said he was ready to push back on this new White House when necessary. But Shapiro, who will be up for reelection as Pennsylvanias governor in 2026, has spent years building a brand as a moderate Democrat willing to work across the aisle. He has already signaled that he will not take as hard a stance against a second Trump term but, at the same time, says he is preparing to defend the state. READ MORE: Welcome to the 2028 presidential election cycle, where Pa. Gov. Josh Shapiro is a front-runner Manuel Bonder, a spokesperson for Shapiro, said in a statement that the governor would focus on delivering results for Pennsylvanians through job creation, economic development, education, and public safety. The Governor has also been clear that he will never back down from defending Pennsylvanians fundamental freedoms, Bonder added. The Shapiro Administration is preparing for all scenarios and taking steps to safeguard our Commonwealth from potential federal actions that could be harmful to Pennsylvania families and communities. Bonder declined to detail the scenarios for which the administration is preparing. A source close to Shapiro said that ahead of Trumps Jan. 20 inauguration, the governor has focused on securing federal funding which makes up approximately half of the state governments nearly $100 billion in annual spending by working to draw down as many federal dollars for Pennsylvania as possible. Trump has promised to hollow out many of the nations federal agencies, such as the Department of Education, in his second term. A different tone In the days after the November 2024 presidential election, Shapiro quickly accepted the results and said he would turn back to getting stuff done for Pennsylvanians. I know the pundits will analyze every aspect of this election, but for my part, Im going to continue to listen to the good people of Pennsylvania, show respect for their choices, and find ways to bring people back together, Shapiro said at the time. It was a much different tone than the one he used on the campaign trail just days earlier, as he blasted Trump in support of Vice President Kamala Harris. And its different from his previous approach, as attorney general, in which he touted his numerous legal challenges of the Trump administration, boasting about beating Trump in court more than 40 times over his 2020 efforts to overturn the states election results. Alison Dagnes, the chair of political science at Shippensburg University, said Shapiros more congenial tune may come down to a multilevel calculation: First, he needs to make sure Pennsylvania gets the federal resources it needs from the Trump administration. Second, he needs to strike a balance on his rhetoric about Trump to get reelected in 2026 in Pennsylvania, where Trump won by more than 120,000 votes. And third, Shapiro needs to set himself apart from the other potential Democratic 2028 presidential candidates, as the partys primaries often require candidates to move left to be chosen as the nominee. Hes not going to play nice with Trump, but hes not going to make Trump the boogeyman at all, Dagnes said. Its not that hes afraid, its because of the nature of Pennsylvania. Josh Shapiro knows that he cannot act like Gavin Newsom of California or Kathy Hochul of New York, she added. He has to act in a way that he will be reelected in a state that is so sharply divided, and later elected in a country that is so evenly split. Balancing act for swing-state Dems Shapiro isnt the only Democratic swing-state governor in that precarious position. Among the others possibly vying for the 2028 presidential ticket, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has signaled she would take a stance similar to Shapiros in Trumps second term. The two 2028 hopefuls lead states that voted for Trump and this year will have to navigate a divided legislature, where one party controls the state Senate and another the state House. The more-reserved approach toward the Trump administration marks a change for Whitmer, too, who during Trumps first presidency was on the receiving end of his revenge after speaking out against him. In 2020, Trump bragged that he told then-Vice President Mike Pence not to take Whitmers calls requesting federal assistance to handle the states COVID-19 outbreak, including requests for ventilators and masks. Dont call the woman in Michigan, Trump said in a media call in late March 2020, as the pandemic continued to spread throughout the country, news site Michigan Advance reported at the time. You know what I say? If they dont treat you right, I dont call. In another Trump term, Whitmer told Michigan Advance, she will work with the Trump administration but expects there to be issues where they dont agree. Trumps unpredictability will also offer an opportunity for Shapiro, Whitmer, and others rumored to have higher office aspirations to claim they are only concerned about their own state when taking the president to task. [Trump] shoots from the hip and is occasionally unhinged; you really dont know what hes going to do, Dagnes said. Shapiro is going to be smart to keep his nose to the grindstone and repeat the words Im just looking after Pennsylvanians over and over and over. From Montgomery County to the national spotlight In some ways, Shapiros rise to power has been in tandem with Trumps. The former Montgomery County commissioner first garnered national attention in 2016, when he won Pennsylvania in the same election cycle as Trump. Elected to two terms as attorney general, Shapiro often joined other Democratic attorneys general in suing the Trump administration over federal policies on issues like reproductive access and the environment. (Shapiro left his position as AG in 2023, after he was elected to governor.) The role of the AG gave Shapiro a unique vantage the position has become more nationalized in recent years, with attorneys general across the country serving as the main challengers to federal policies during the Trump and Biden administrations. The two have publicly sparred over the years since. When Shapiro almost ended up on the presidential ticket as Harris running mate in August, he became a consistent topic of Trumps Truth Social posts. After Shapiro gave a prime-time speech at the Democratic National Convention, Trump attacked the governor on his social media platform, calling him a highly overrated Jewish Governor. Shapiro quickly responded, accusing Trump of promoting antisemitic tropes and saying that Trump is obsessed with me. But for now, Shapiros office says he is focused on Pennsylvania rather than the politicking of 2024. As Attorney General, Josh Shapiro worked to protect Pennsylvanians from actions that threatened everything from workers rights and their ability to keep their wages, to our clean air and pure water, to our voting rights and a womans freedom to choose, Bonder, Shapiros spokesperson, said in the statement. As Governor, he will keep working to defend our democracy, [and] defend our fundamental rights. The site of the gas explosion on the 3500 block of Miller street in the Port Richmond section of Philadelphia, as photographed on Jan. 3, 2023. Read more Port Richmond residents woke up on New Years Day 2023 to an explosion that leveled three houses and hurt five people, including a man who later died from his injuries. Waldemar Janiszewki, who suffered spinal fractures and a traumatic brain injury from the blast, died from injuries in April at age 70 after nearly 16 months of intensive medical care. Advertisement Ahead of the two-year anniversary to the explosion last week, Janiszewkis estate and three other people injured in the blast that rocked the 3500 block of Miller Street accused Philadelphia Gas Works and Peco of failing to maintain infrastructure, gross negligence that led to the explosions. READ MORE: A Port Richmond explosion survivor says she wants to rebuild her home, but shes having a hard time learning how The two lawsuits, filed in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, allege that the explosion was the result of a gas leak and that utility and maintenance companies had years to prevent the incident but instead chose not to warn residents of Miller Street, including Plaintiffs, of the risk posed by the pipeline. The gas pipeline leaked into the ground near and around 3546-3550 Miller Street, the complaint on behalf of Janiszewkis estate says. The leaking natural gas ultimately ignited and created a massive high order explosion. Janiszewkis estate sued alongside Michael Schofield, 58, who suffered spine injuries in the blast. A second lawsuit was filed on behalf of Maria Mardula, 66, and John Sotomayor, 56. The explosion upended the lives of all three survivors. Sotomayor, for example, worked as an executive chef. He was sleeping in his mothers house on Miller Street on the night of the explosion and suffered broken ribs, burns, and trauma to the head, neck, and shoulders, according to the complaint. Sotomayor hasnt been able to return to work since the explosion, according to Thomas Sweeney, an attorney with Messa and Associates, who represents Sotomayor and Mardula. They went to bed one night and woke up to a catastrophe, Sweeney said. PGWs initial investigation found no leaks in the natural gas infrastructure on the block, representatives of the utility said in a community meeting days after the incident. And PGW continues to stand by that assessment, according to a spokesperson. As the incident did not involve PGWs mains or service pipes, PGW has no further updates or information and cannot comment on pending litigation, the spokesperson said. READ MORE: Port Richmond explosion site had no gas leaks, according to PGWs initial survey Other defendants include Peco and parent company Exelon, the city, Riggs Distler Gas, and contractors. A spokesperson for the citys law department declined to comment on the active litigation. Riggs Distler Gass parent company, Centuri, did not respond to requests for comment. The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission didnt find evidence that gas infrastructure led to the explosion, a Peco spokesperson noted. The electric utility and its parent company shouldnt be parties to the lawsuits, the company said. Large catastrophe cases are complex, involving experts and engineers to get to the root of what happened, said Michael Budner, attorney at Saltz Mongeluzzi Bendesky, who represents Janiszewkis estate and Schofield. But there is only so much investigation the survivors and attorneys can conduct without information from the defendants. The discovery process is how we prove what caused the explosion, Budner said. A pedestrian crosses North Broad Street at Cecil B. Moore Avenue as snow is illuminated in the headlights of traffic Friday. More is on the way through Monday, this time with expected accumulations of up to 4 inches. Read more Up to 4 inches of snow is expected to fall on the Philadelphia area Monday, creating slippery road conditions throughout the day and night in what will likely be the first significant storm of the winter season, though nothing close to its debut Sunday in the Midwest. While forecasted amounts from the National Weather Service for the region were down from earlier predictions of up to half a foot, people were still preparing for the worst and stocking up on shovels, ice melt, and jugs of salt. Advertisement And the expected storm was enough to prompt the City of Philadelphia and school district officials to close all government offices and schools Monday. The Archdiocese of Philadelphia said its high school buildings will be closed, though those schools will use so-called Flexible Instruction Days, with learning completed at home. Parochial elementary schools will be closed, the archdiocese said. The Upper Darby School District, meanwhile, said it would have a virtual school day. They were just part of a list of school closures that grew well into Sunday night. And Gov. Phil Murphy has declared a state of emergency for seven South Jersey counties: Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, and Salem. Amid a historically light season for snow in the region with just 0.3 inch to date reported by government observers at Philadelphia International Airport some Philadelphians were looking forward to the wintry weather. Theyre kind of excited to see it, because we havent really had real snow in quite a while, Yori Candidi, a cashier at Fairmount Hardware, said Sunday. The stores five-gallon buckets of calcium chloride and 50-pound bags of regular rock salt were flying off the shelves, leaving mostly smaller bags for those running errands later in the day. Everyones buying mostly bulk, too, to prepare in case, because we dont know how bad its gonna end up being, Candidi said. Whatever comes overnight in Philly is likely to pale in comparison to the snow, sleet, and freezing rain that hit the Midwest over the weekend, resulting in hundreds of canceled flights in Kansas City and St. Louis. READ MORE: Snow is expected for Phillys Monday morning commute, followed by a prolonged cold spell More snow in Camden, less snow north of Philly Snow will spread over the region late Sunday night and intensify through Monday morning before gradually tapering off in the afternoon and evening, according to the National Weather Service, which issued its first winter weather advisory of the year for Philadelphia. The storm is expected to bring more snow to the south of Philly and less snow in areas north of the city, said Zack Cooper, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service office in Mount Holly. Southern areas like Camden could get up to 6 inches of snow while areas north of Philly could get just 2 to 3 inches, he said. The gradient is pretty much right through the Philadelphia metro [area], so thats kind of where the greatest uncertainty lies, Cooper said. " ... As you go, you know, lets say north from Camden, you may run into lower totals fairly quickly. As the storm gets closer, the forecast will continue to be refined and subtle shifts are still possible, Cooper said. Those shifts can have a big difference for the amount of snow in the area. Temperatures are expected to plunge on Tuesday and stay below freezing through at least Friday, experts said. Then in the following days, according to data from the Climate Prediction Center, theres a pretty good chance that temperatures across the area will remain below normal, and precipitation is also expected to be below normal, he said. Motorists can check PennDots website for updates on vehicle restrictions on the Pennsylvania Turnpike and other roadways during the storm. They can also check road conditions at www.511PA.com. If a tenant follows the law and withholds rent to make repairs to the heater or plumbing, an unscrupulous landlord can file for an eviction, but the filing itself stays on their record forever, writes Adam Goldman. Read more Its no secret that for many people, finding affordable housing is a challenge. More and more young people are living with their parents or sharing space with others who cant afford housing. This story has been covered repeatedly, but whats been missed is that renters face additional challenges, particularly a court system that punishes them for standing up to abusive landlords. If a tenant follows the law and withholds rent to make repairs to the heater or plumbing, an unscrupulous landlord can file for an eviction. The tenant, if theyve saved their receipts, may win, but will still be punished since the filing itself stays on their record forever. Unlike a bankruptcy, which is removed after seven years, a landlord filing an eviction stays on the tenants record even if the judge finds the tenant has done everything right. This makes it harder for the tenant to find a suitable place to rent. Advertisement Before the rise of online court records and artificial intelligence, a landlord might look to see if the tenant was actually evicted and why. But now, with services like TransUnions tenant screening service and tenant background check, fewer landlords do research on their own. Meanwhile, a recent Consumer Reports study found that almost 50% of all credit reports had errors, and it was almost impossible to correct them quickly. As director of the Philadelphia Unemployment Project and a longtime housing counselor working with tenants in a groundbreaking mediation program in Philadelphia, Ive seen countless cases where you need to know the full story to understand why an eviction was filed. Unfortunately, even when tenant screening reports are accurate, they dont tell all. They may not say whether the tenant was actually evicted in the end. They most likely dont tell the tenants side of the story like if they legally withheld rent because the landlord wouldnt repair an open sewer stack that was letting sewage flow into their basement (a real situation a client of mine faced). They certainly dont tell if a lawsuit was filed in error by the landlords attorney (another situation that several of my clients have experienced). READ MORE: Philadelphias for-profit eviction system is a dangerous travesty | Editorial Many landlords wont rent to tenants simply because they see the word eviction in a report, regardless of the circumstances, and tenants can get stuck living in substandard and expensive housing with the only landlords willing to rent to them. According to a recent University of Michigan study, over half of tenants who participated were explicitly rejected by landlords because of a court filing, and many reported putting up with unsafe or unhealthy conditions because they were afraid their landlord would try to evict them if they spoke up. This isnt just a few tenants here or there. Every year, tens of thousands of Pennsylvanians face the threat of eviction. In the last year alone, more than 115,000 eviction lawsuits were filed across the state. In my time as a housing counselor, Ive seen all sorts of situations that lead tenants and landlords to eviction court. In most cases, weve been able to work out an agreement to avoid court that everyone can live with, but that isnt always the case. When we cant work things out in mediation, the next step is court. Most counties dont even have mediation programs, and so most tenants go straight to court. For those tenants, thats just the start of their housing troubles, because those court records arent going away anytime soon. Every year, tens of thousands of Pennsylvanians face the threat of eviction. So, what can we do to address this? The answer is simple: We can seal eviction records. Tenants and advocates across the state have been fighting for legislation in Harrisburg that would seal court records 1) when a tenant isnt ultimately evicted, 2) when a tenant pays off a money judgment, and 3) in cases older than seven years. House Bill 1769 was introduced this year to do just that. It gained support from all over the state and was making good progress through the legislature. To get the support it needed to pass, it was pared back to just sealing cases after seven years, which would still have a huge impact on tenants. Unfortunately, pushback from landlords caused it to stall last month. But were committed to this fight because tenants shouldnt be held back for years to come because of previous hardships or trouble with negligent landlords. Sealing these court records would mean tenants who were never ruled in the wrong by a judge, those who made their landlords whole, and those who havent had an eviction in years can move forward and thrive. As we move into 2025 and a new legislative session, we will continue working with tenants and organizations across Pennsylvania to tell our elected officials that we must seal evictions now. Adam Goldman is the executive director of the Philadelphia Unemployment Project and Unemployment Information Center. Congress will meet Monday Jan. 6, 2025 during a joint session to count and record the votes of the 2024 presidential election. But it wont be anything like four years ago. This year, the certification is expected to remain peaceful despite the date and largely under-the-radar process taking on historical significance after a violent insurrection led by then-President Donald Trumps supporters took place at the U.S. Capitol in an effort to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. Advertisement While the U.S. Capitol Police are ramping up security measures ahead of the political ceremony, theres been no indication from the defeated party in this case Democrats that lawmakers will object to the electoral results that delivered Trumps decisive win in November. Heres what to know about Congress role in counting the votes and formalizing the winner of the 2024 presidential election, which will officially put a period on the unprecedented race between Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. What is election certification? Election certification is the mandatory process of formalizing and solidifying the results of an election. Voters cast their ballots on Election Day, and winners are often called by media outlets, like the Associated Press, but the results are unofficial until they are certified, according to the United States Election Assistance Commission. Election results are certified for all elections at the local and state level, according to the Campaign Legal Center. For presidential elections, there are additional steps including the statewide meeting of presidential electors. Why does election certification need to happen? People across the U.S. gather in front of their TVs, phones, and computers on Election Night to watch the returns and wait for their outlet of choice to call the races, but the projections made by the media are not official. In fact, even if 100% of voting precincts have reported their results the outcome of the election is still not official until the returns have been certified, assuring voters that results are accurate, according to the USEAC. Whats Congress role in certifying the election results and how does it work? A joint session of Congress will take place in the House on Jan. 6 at 1 p.m. to count the electoral votes and declare the winners of the presidential election as required by the 12th Amendment. The vice president is the president of the Senate and will preside over the count. The president of the Senate opens the votes of the states in alphabetical order and gives them to appointed tellers who announce each set of results out loud, according to the National Archives. This means that on Monday, after all votes are recorded and counted, Harris, who lost her bid for the presidency, will declare President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance the official winners of the 2024 presidential election. But before that can happen, states engage in a thorough process to validate the election results. States are required to appoint electors in accordance with laws of the state enacted prior to Election Day. In most states, political parties nominate slates of electors, then voters choose the electors in the general election. After the election, the states governor (or mayor in the case of Washington D.C.) prepares seven original Certificates of Ascertainment, which confirms the slate of electors who will then meet in December for each candidate with the number of votes each candidate received. The certificates also note the slate that won the highest number of votes. House and Senate staff meet with the Office of Federal Register to examine the Certificates of Vote in late December. What if a member of Congress or Senate objects to results? After the teller announces the results from each state during the joint session, the president of the Senate the vice president calls for any objections. An objection must be submitted in writing and must be supported by members in both chambers of Congress specifically one-fifth of the House and one-fifth of the Senate. An objection must also clearly outline one of two grounds for objection: the electors of the State were not lawfully certified under a Certificate of Ascertainment, or the vote of one or more electors has not been regularly given, according to the National Archives. If an objection is recognized, the House and Senate head to their respective chambers to consider the validity of any objections, following the United States Code. When the two chambers have voted on the objection, they must immediately reconvene, and may not move on to any other state until the objections are addressed. The total time for debating objections and questions must not exceed two hours in each chamber. In 2021, six senators and 121 U.S. representatives supported an objection based on unfounded claims of election fraud to the presidential election results in Arizona. Once both chambers reconvened their joint session later in the day on Jan. 6 after the violent insurrection at the Capitol, some GOP lawmakers abandoned their plans to object to certain states election results, while others carried on. Pennsylvanias election results were objected to by 138 House members, all Republicans, and seven GOP senators. Georgia, Michigan, and Nevada also received objections from House members, but were not supported by senators, so no debate was held. Why is this years process unlikely to unfold as Jan. 6, 2021, did? It mostly comes down to rhetoric. In 2020, many Republican lawmakers promoted baseless claims and conspiracy theories alleging that the presidential election was stolen from Trump. It reached a fever pitch when Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol after gathering for Trumps speech on the Ellipse beforehand in hopes of interfering with the tallying of electoral votes. More than 140 Republicans, including eight from Pennsylvania, voted to overturn the election results. Ahead of this years certification, there has been no such widespread indication that this rhetoric exists from lawmakers, including Democrats who have been adamant about the peaceful transfer of power and that Trumps win in November was fair, despite Democrats losing the popular vote by a thin margin of 1.5%, according to The Associated Press. Democrats, who have staged symbolic objections to GOP presidential wins in the past, are planning to avoid any objections this year in light of the violence at the Capitol four years ago, The Hill reported last month. Harris also conceded the race a day after Election Day, while Trump has still not conceded the 2020 election to President Joe Biden. From block parties to the nations birthday, Philadelphia hosts numerous events that involve the type of large outdoor gatherings that make public safety officials worry about the potential for an automobile-based attack like the one that killed 14 people in New Orleans early on New Years Day. Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel said Philly officials have been working to prevent such an attack from happening since at least 2016, when a terrorist drove a 19-ton truck through a Bastille Day celebration in Nice, France, killing 86 people. Advertisement The New Orleans tragedy, he said, was the latest reminder that the threat remains. Seeing where this person was able to defeat the barrier system that they had in place, then we right away started looking at our system to see where we have to make enhancements, Bethel said in an interview Friday. Were seeing on a yearly basis now where individuals are using cars as a device to cause injury, and that creates a significant, significant challenge for us in policing. Heres what you need to know about Phillys efforts to prevent a motor vehicle attack: Two-layered perimeter After the Nice attack, Philadelphia and many other cities increased their use of city vehicles, such as large sanitation trucks, to block off streets where crowds are gathering, Bethel said. In New Orleans, the attacker drove around such a barricade and onto the sidewalk. Bethel said Philly officials are now reviewing the citys strategies for preventing a driver from steering around barricades to pull off an attack. For large events, the Police Department sets up a dual perimeter, with a traffic-blocking outer layer that serves as a checkpoint allowing only local or delivery vehicles into the area and an inner layer of police officers and vehicles protecting the event itself. We do have a two-layered process that we have, and so we now have to go through our model to see what are the enhancements, he said. Where can we be more intentional about potentially putting blocks on the sidewalks? Not just bollards Bethel said Philadelphia may pursue federal grants to acquire new equipment that can protect crowds, such as the movable concrete barriers that New York City deploys for large events. Were looking at some of the models that New York has where they use concrete blocks on the sidewalk in addition to obstructing the street, he said. Well be going through that process now, particularly for our core events that we have, whether it be the Mummers, July Fourth, those types of events. What are the additional enhancements that we [want to] have? Additionally, Bethel said, he is considering encouraging city leaders to invest money in environmental changes that might not look like police equipment but could help prevent a vehicle attack like the one in New Orleans. He said its time to expand the concept of crime prevention through environmental design, or CPTED a strategy to deter crime through improvements such as street lighting and cleaning to include things like large planters that could prevent drivers from using the sidewalks if a street is blocked by police or city vehicles. You have to expand that model and think about: How do you put these protective barriers up as well? he said. What we dont want to do is you walking around, and all you see is bollards and metal things on the sidewalks, because you still have to make a thruway for pedestrians to move. And so I think theres other ways. Heavy, heavy planters do the exact same thing, but are much more aesthetically pleasing. Or bollards that are removable put in during the incident and then taken out. Parties and protests Not all large gatherings are scheduled events in Center City. Every summer, for instance, Philly permits more block parties than any other city, and some attract hundreds of attendees. The city cannot simply barricade streets for every block party, Bethel said, because we have emergency vehicles that may need to move through. But following the New Orleans attack, the department is reviewing its guidance and resources for block party organizers, he said. We cant bollard the nation, right? We cant bollard the city of Philadelphia, right? The reality is its just not possible, he said. Were going to have to find a balance. So this is not a conversation around stopping block parties, but we are going to have to offer some conversations, and we have to look at our model to see what that looks like. Additionally, he said, the Police Department is constantly reviewing its strategies for protests, which can occur spontaneously and take unpredictable routes. It is virtually impossible to stop a vehicle from causing harm in a protest that is moving around and leaping through different intersections where I dont have the capacity to put blocking vehicles, he said. So we have done a rolling blockade to try to minimize [the risk]. But that causes a great concern for us, so theres a whole myriad of things that we have to think through as we consider what happened in New Orleans. Cost of freedom Attacks like the one in New Orleans are in some ways more difficult to prevent due to their simplicity, Bethel said. A guy went and rented a car, got in the car, drove down the street, and so you just think about how simple and low-tech that is, he said. Its very hard to say theres a foolproof system that you can deploy that will ensure that no way, no shape and how, a vehicle can get into a crowd. Its going to take a lot of awareness, a lot of conversations, to do that. The commissioner said hes worried that vehicular attacks will continue in the U.S. and elsewhere. Weve unfortunately seen with the school shootings, weve had these hopes after this one, hopefully itll be the last one and every year we get a mass shooting at a school, right? he said. But he said public safety officials will work to prevent attacks and intervene effectively when they do happen so that they dont fundamentally change how people feel about public gatherings. Theres a cost of freedom, he said. What we dont want to do is paralyze us as a city or as a nation that we dont live our lives in a free way. We all know the impact extreme weather events like cyclones and floods can have on our roads, but its especially debilitating when the only highway connecting our regional centres is cut off. Measures to ensure that communities are accessible after extreme weather events will ensure Queenslanders can recover faster and get back in their homes and businesses sooner, Harrison said. The picture which was a sensation around the world is now the subject of a new book. An Aussie anglers photo that was so odd it surprised the world is now the subject of a childrens story. The short illustrated book recreates the moment the man hooked a large fish and discovered a bewildered green frog hiding inside its mouth. After the picture went viral on social media, it became a sensation and was featured on the Today Show in the United States and several pages were dedicated to it in a Russian newspaper. The photographer Angus James rejected offers to sell the rights in 2014 and quietly held onto them for a decade, thinking hed eventually find a creative purpose for it. Then as his wife Amy James recovered from the birth of their first child, she began writing a short poem about the famous frog and fish. My baby refused to sleep in a crib, so I was 'nap-trapped', sitting with him on me. My phone was dead and I was bored so I started to write, she told Yahoo News. The poem started forming in my mind, so I wrote it down and I shared it with Angus. What happened to the fish and the frog? Amy wrote a story around the viral photograph taken by her husband Angus. Source: Supplied The hardest part of bringing the story to life was finding the right illustrator because Amy was determined to find someone who could capture the frogs personalities. Having grown up close to where the fish was caught, she was familiar with the landscape and wanted it to capture the magical world she remembered from her childhood. ADVERTISEMENT At the heart of the story is a message about not giving up. While the frog probably thought its days were numbered after it was swallowed, the tiny amphibian was saved by the fisherman, who released both it and the fish. Angus hooked the large jungle perch close to the Far North Queensland town of Tully. A large storm was moving in and he believes the frog was likely swallowed during a feeding frenzy. It was being pretty greedy and took my lure even though it had a mouthful of frog, he told Yahoo News. Child delights in seeing picture of dad in book Anguss 2-year-old has delighted in seeing his dad illustrated in the book. Source: Supplied The couples oldest child is now two years old and its exciting for him to see illustrations of his dad by UK-based illustrator Heather May Williams in the book. ADVERTISEMENT He looks at the book and says: Theres daddy. Its a nice feeling, knowing that my wife is telling this story that will live on forever now, he said. The book is available for order in both hard copy and digital via Amazon. Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories. A review commissioned by the ICA revealed significant gaps in the industrys readiness, noting that while some insurers had well-developed disaster plans, others were ill-equipped to meet the demands of such large-scale events. A key recommendation urged the ICA to introduce a "baseline category" for extreme weather and disaster event management to align industry practices. During 2024, insurance brokerages and industry peak bodies renewed their efforts to deal with recruitment challenges. One indicator of progress can be found on the Insure Your Future website, a National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) initiative. This website now lists nearly 70 brokerages offering dozens of job opportunities across the country. Not only does this demonstrate the increasing need and complexity of mental ill health across all cohorts but it also illustrates the vital role insurance will need to play, not only as an essential pillar of the social safety net, but also as a support structure in empowering their recoveries, McGovern said. Michelle Klein, insurance chief customer and marketing officer at NRMA, noted the increasing demand for specialised cancer care in Australia: Its estimated there will be around 169,500 cases of cancer diagnosed in Australia this year, and the need for specialised care continues to grow. The vital support offered by McGrath Cancer Care Nurses makes an incredible difference for those impacted by cancer and their families. Taiping Re also collaborated with a Hong Kong university to create the region's first customized flood catastrophe model, funded by the Innovation and Technology Commission of the Hong Kong SAR Government. In Macau, the company has supported the local government in managing the Macau Catastrophe Property Insurance Scheme for small and medium enterprises for six consecutive years. This decision to list in New York follows a series of reforms introduced by the LSE in 2024 aimed at enhancing the UK markets appeal to international businesses. These reforms included greater flexibility for companies in making decisions without shareholder approval and the removal of the premium listing segment, aimed at boosting liquidity. Despite these changes, the LSE has faced difficulties in reversing a long-term decline in relevance. In November, the company posted a net income of $9.3 million in the third quarter of 2024, down from $167.3 million a year ago. Book value per share at the end of the quarter was $25.86. Return on equity stood at 11.8%, with an adjusted operating ROE of 11.7%. The company said then that it plans to allocate $25 million of the net proceeds from the offering to fund its acquisition of First Indemnity of America. Meanwhile, the remainder of the funds were used for organic growth and selected increases in risk participation in product categories such as crop and earthquake. Verisk highlighted its history in catastrophe modeling, noting that it pioneered the catastrophe modeling business in 1987 and has decades of experience in assisting carriers to manage risks related to natural disasters. The company stated that it serves over 400 clients across the insurance industry, public sector, and other entities. The government expects contractors to act swiftly and efficiently, sometimes even faster than they can realistically manage, Kirby said. For instance, clients in a remote location need insurance solutions that allow them to act immediately to address situations involving their employees. There should be no coverage gaps or delays in claims determination before action can be taken. There are two reasons that likely caused the incredible and unlikely encounter between animals. The cow appeared to give the crocodile a 'kiss on the head' as it slowly approached it in the water. Source: Instagram/DaintreeCrocodileTours Tourists often travel to Australia with the hope of getting up close and not too personal with wildlife and two lucky visitors had a unique crocodile sighting that certainly didn't disappoint. The lucky pair and their tour guide Nick Bohm watched on as a saltwater croc and cow interacted with one another, but it wasn't quite the ferocious encounter you'd expect. The unwitting cow offered its potential predator a "kiss on the head" instead. "It was unreal," Nick from Daintree Crocodile Tours told Yahoo News. "I've been fortunate enough to do this for 11 years and I still get excited every time I see a croc and something happens." The tour guide explained he barely ever takes his phone out to film anything on the job but jumped to capture this moment, urging the tourists to do the same. Why did the crocodile and cow interaction play out this way? Nick explained there are plenty of cattle farms in the area and it's not the first time he's seen the two species interact but it's never quite been this tame. He believes there are likely two factors that resulted in the two animals reacting in a different way than expected. ADVERTISEMENT "I'd been observing that crocodile all morning, and basically it had a full belly. And when they've got a full belly, they'd be like us, in a bit of a food coma," Nick said. Being full, the crocodile had no desire to hunt and was likely wanting the cow to move out of the way so he instead could enjoy the shade. "The crocodile was probably a little bit too small to take down that cow anyway. Maybe in deeper water it might have stood a chance," Nick said. The unwitting cow dashed away once it realised what was floating up to it in the water. Source: Instagram/DaintreeCrocodileTours As for the second reason why the cow calmly engaged with the croc, it likely mistook the predator as something else. "The croc slowly made its way over to the shade where the cow was and the cow was oblivious, it must have thought it was a log because it bent down to give the crocodile a kiss on the head," Nick said. Cows often fall prey to Australia's 'magnificent' predator There are many examples of the two animals interacting in Australia but often, as expected, the cow succumbs to the impressive skills of its predator. ADVERTISEMENT A fisherman captured the "magnificent" image of a croc swimming through waters in the East Kimberley area while holding a dead cow in its jaws in July. When cattle farms are near crocodile habitats, it can often cause huge issues for farmers as they lose livestock to the predators. A Northern Territory fisherman Rodney Fischer told Yahoo News previously that cattle stations are losing hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of livestock due to crocs wandering onto property and snatching cows. "They lose about three cows a day or 1,000 per year, which is worth about $800,000," Fischer explained. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. Pregnant New Yorkers will be entitled to at least 20 hours of paid leave to attend prenatal medical appointments under a law that took effect Wednesday. Gov. Kathy Hochul said the policy makes New York the first state in the country to offer paid leave for prenatal care. All pregnant workers in the private sector are eligible for the paid time off. Workers can schedule the paid leave for pregnancy-related medical appointments such as physical examinations, end of pregnancy care and fertility treatments, among other things. Hochul pushed for the measure in the states last legislative session as a way to help reduce maternal and infant deaths in New York. No pregnant woman in New York should be forced to choose between a paycheck and a check-up and thats why I pushed to create the nations first paid prenatal leave policy, Hochul said in a statement last month. Employers are forbidden from requesting medical information when a worker requests the prenatal paid leave. The policy is separate from any other paid sick leave offered by an employer. Spouses of pregnant women are not eligible for the prenatal leave. Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Commercial Lines New York Business Insurance Employee Benefits The nations capital and surrounding areas are experiencing the effects of severe winter weather as a storm has moved from parts of the Ohio Valley to the Mid-Atlantic. The storm is producing moderate to heavy snow and icing that will continue into late Monday night over the Mid-Atlantic. The National Weather Service is also warning residents to expect numerous severe thunderstorms, a significant threat for damaging and locally destructive hurricane-force winds, along with the potential for large hail and tornadoes, even strong tornadoes. The system will produce 6-12 inches of snow across the Mid-Atlantic, including the greater Baltimore/Washington, D.C. and northern Virginia metro area. On Sunday, District of Columbia Mayor Muriel E. Bowser declared a weather emergency through at least Tuesday as did Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin and Maryland Governor Wes Moore also declared states of emergency and some state offices in these states and Delaware are closed today or will have essential employees only reporting to work. All public schools in D.C., and in multiple counties in Maryland, Virginia and Delaware are closed. Federal offices are closed, although Congress will still meet to certify the results of the presidential election. Travelers should anticipate significant disruptions. According to the Weather Prediction Center, drivers in Maryland, Virginia, the District of Columbia and Delaware can expect dangerous or impossible driving conditions. In addition, on Monday, light lake-effect snow will be ongoing downwind from the Great Lakes and upslope snow over parts of the Northeast. In the wake of the storm, on Tuesday, light to moderate lake-effect snow will continue downwind from the Great Lakes and into upslope regions of Northern New England, according to the weather service. Topics Windstorm XS Brokers Promotes Buccinna to Regional Leader of New York XS Brokers, headquartered in Quincy, Massachusetts, promoted Peter Buccinna to vice president and regional leader of New York. Buccinna has over 26 years of industry experience and joined XS Brokers in 2017. He will oversee the development of state strategies to drive growth through organic sales and continued collaboration with key retail partners. Before joining XS, Buccinna served as a business development manager at Chubb. Previous roles include marketing representative at LoVullo Associates, Inc., and business development manager at AIG. Falvey Named CEO of Falvey Insurance Group, Among Other Leadership Changes Following Mike Falveys appointment to executive chairman, Jack Falvey assumed the role of CEO of Falvey Insurance Group, based in North Kingstown, Rhode Island, on Jan. 1. Jack Falvey joined the company in 2013 as a business analyst and later became vice president of group operations. He most recently served as chief operating officer. Eric Newman was named chief risk officer. He has been with Falvey for 17 years and was most recently executive vice president of claims, loss prevention and recoveries. Brody Karn was named chief operating officer and will oversee business intelligence and innovation, IT, legal & compliance and capacity. Karn has been with Falvey for three years, beginning as a legal intern and, most recently, as associate counsel. Brad Eldridge was named chief growth officer, focusing on leading the production of Falvey Insurance Group. He oversees business development, marketing, and the wholesale brokerage. Emmy Falvey was hired as senior vice president and head of capacity, effective January 21. She will be based in London and will manage all market relationships. She was most recently with Westfield Specialty. Topics Agencies New York Leadership Inside faceless office buildings scattered around London, a niche corner of the insurance market is keeping hundreds of billions of dollars in commodity trade moving through some of the worlds most dangerous waters. As conflicts rage in the Middle East and Ukraine, shipping goods is becoming increasingly perilous, with the oceans pocked by the highest number of risky areas in at least two decades. The Red Sea and Black Sea are vital passageways for oil, coal and grains, and some of those essentials would be stuck in port without insurance against acts of war. A bigger-than-ever chunk of that protection is being written by specialist providers, who pay out if ships or their cargoes are damaged by drones, missiles or drifting mines. Shipping insurance has been offered in London since the 1680s, yet the business of selling war cover is reaching new heights as the post-pandemic rebound in trade sails into a gauntlet of flaring geopolitical tensions and persistent piracy. Industry officials estimate that premiums may generate as much as $1 billion a year. Without the specialist war risk insurance market, the impact upon vital marine trade routes would have been far greater than weve seen, said Chris Goddard, founder and chief executive officer of Vessel Protect, one of the largest providers. His company is one of at least five businesses known as managing general agents, or MGAs, that have opened city offices to rival stalwarts in the Lloyds of London market. They offer coverage for dangerous voyages at premiums that can earn them millions of dollars if the massive, 900-foot-long vessels make it to their destinations safely. Our own growth and attainment of market share since launch has exceeded our expectations, Goddard said of the firm he started four years ago in his living room during the COVID-19 lockdown. At one point, Vessel Protect insured almost a third of the grain ships sailing from Ukraine, he said. Such cover helped maintain the flow of what analytics firm Kpler estimated was about $150 billion worth of cargo moving through the Red Sea and Black Sea in the first half of last year. Thats equivalent to more than $830 million a day. Navium Marine Ltd., Ai Marine Risk Ltd., Clearwater UW Ltd. and K2 Rubicon Specialty have all started up in recent years. As well as providing protection against acts of war, those entities also offer insurance for other parts of the voyage, whether its the value of the ship itself, the cargo or more esoteric threats such as kidnappings of crew members. Their leaders include a mix of characters whose backgrounds range from broking to underwriting and military intelligence. Naviums chief executive officer is Lloyds veteran and Emerson, Lake & Palmer fan Clive Washbourn, who told The Voice of Insurance podcast he holds meetings in rooms named after female pirates. He declined an interview request. There has been significant growth in the number of new providers of marine insurance cover in recent years, particularly in the MGA space, said Louise Nevill, UK chief executive officer of the marine, cargo and logistics business at Marsh McLennan Co., the worlds largest insurance broker. Shipowners are seeking coverage to sail in a host of waters deemed perilous, including the Gulf of Guinea, the Persian Gulf and more than 20,000 miles of Russian coastline. Most marine insurance works the same way as coverage for a house or car, with the policy renewing annually. But standard protection is suspended inside war zones, so shipowners buy a separate risk policy. Thats usually in effect for seven days but can also last a year. Those vessel owners deciding to forego such insurance because of the extra cost may wind up paying more for uninsured losses, said Christina Serebriakova, an agricultural commodities broker at Kyiv-based Atria Brokers, which often works with traders shipping grains from Ukraine. If they dont have insurance, they need to pay for the losses out of their own pocket, she said. Underwriters are effectively making bets on how likely it is that a vessel becomes a casualty of war, often using a simple calculation: How many ships are sailing through that area, and how many have suffered damage recently? There have been more than 100 incidents since Yemens Houthi rebels began their Red Sea attacks in 2023. At least four crew members have been killed, and vessels have been punctured and torched by missiles. One tanker struck by the Iran-backed militants burned for more than four weeks before getting towed by the European Unions naval force. Another ship, the Tutor, was sunk by a drone in June. It had an estimated value of about $37 million, according to Clarkson Research Services Ltd., underscoring the sums insurers can find themselves on the hook for. Tankers are typically more expensive than bulk carriers. The handful of vessel losses are threatening what has been a golden era for war insurers. That risk could be heightened for MGAs, who are stepping in as more-established rivals opt out. They are offering cover for business that other people are reluctant to take, said Anders Hovelsrud, insurance director for the Norwegian Shipowners Mutual War Risk Insurance Association. Some of his clients moved to new providers when they couldnt get protection for certain regions. The markets expansion isnt just confined to new players, though. NorthStandard Ltd. the worlds second-largest provider of insurance against calamities such as oil spills said it plans to grow several business lines, including war cover. Theres no industry-standard measure that tracks the premiums written each year, but people involved in the market say the numbers have ballooned in the past three years. Marsh & McLennan estimates that war-risk premiums in London total about 500 million ($621 million). The global total may be closer to $1 billion (805 million), said two insurance officials who declined to be identified because they werent authorized to speak publicly. Insurance is the facilitator of world trade; without it, things dont move, said Neil Roberts, head of marine and aviation at the Lloyds Market Association and chair of the committee that sets listed areas for underwriters. The war market performs a very useful social and financial function. Photograph: In this handout screengrab released by the Houthi group media center, fires can be seen onboard the Sounion, in the Red Sea on Aug. 23, 2024. Photo credit: Houthi Media Center/Getty Images Related: Copyright 2025 Bloomberg. Topics Carriers Taiwan suspects a Chinese-owned cargo vessel damaged an undersea cable near its northeastern coast Friday, in an alleged act of sabotage that highlights the vulnerabilities of Taipeis offshore communications infrastructure. The ship is owned by a Hong Kong-registered company whose director is a mainland Chinese citizen, the Financial Times reported Sunday. An unidentified Taiwanese official cited in the report described the case as sabotage. The incident followed another Chinese vessels suspected involvement in the breakages of data cables in the Baltic Sea in November. While fishing trawlers are known to sometimes damage such equipment, nation states have also been accused of deliberate sabotage, although it can be difficult to prove. This is why Taiwan needs to build its telecommunication resilience, and strengthen its situation awareness in the surrounding waters, said Sheu Jyh-shyang, assistant research fellow at Taiwans Institute of National Defense and Security Research. Otherwise, the system would be easily undermined, and it would be difficult to hold the suspect accountable. Chinas Taiwan Affairs Office didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. The Taiwanese coast guard named Cameroon-flagged Shunxing39 as the suspected offender in a statement Monday, adding the seven crew on board were Chinese nationals. Officers tried but were unable to board the vessel for investigation due to rough weather, but have sent radar records and related evidence to prosecutors, the maritime authority said. The damage didnt affect connection because data was immediately rerouted to other cables, Taiwans Chunghwa Telecom Co. said in a Saturday statement. The company co-owns the cable system along with the AT&T Inc. in the US and regional operators including Japans Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp. and China Telecom Corp., according to the FT. Taiwan has asked South Korea for help with the investigation as the ship is due to arrive in Busan in the coming days, according to a Taiwanese national security official. The integrity of undersea cables has been a rising security concern in Taiwan, which China claims as its territory and has threatened to take with force if necessary. As recently as in 2023, telecommunication services in Taiwans Matsu Islands were disrupted for months after Chinese fishing vessels cut the cables. To back up connections in the event of a failure, the Taiwan Space Agency in 2023 said it intends to launch its first self-made low-Earth orbit communication satellite next year and at least one more by 2028. Copyright 2025 Bloomberg. Topics China Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., the Rolling Meadows, Illinois-based insurance brokerage, announced the acquisition of Waterloo, Ontario-based Encore Insurance Services Inc., dba Encore Group. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Encore Group is a retail insurance brokerage firm serving commercial clients primarily in Ontario with industry focuses of manufacturing, construction and financial institutions. Joe Dalton, Scott Heaman and their team will remain in their current location under the direction of Dave Partington, head of Gallaghers Canadian retail property/casualty brokerage operations. Encore Group is a highly regarded firm whose expertise complements our existing retail brokerage capabilities in Canada, said J. Patrick Gallagher Jr., chairman and CEO. I am excited to welcome Joe, Scott and their associates to our growing, global team. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. provides insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting services in approximately 130 countries around the world through its owned operations and a network of correspondent brokers and consultants. Source: Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Topics Mergers & Acquisitions Agencies Canada A.J. Gallagher The U.S. Justice Department and Boeing told a court on Friday they have not reached agreement on a revised plea deal after a U.S. judge in December rejected the deal, faulting a diversity and inclusion provision. Boeing and the government continue to work in good faith toward a new agreement, they said in a joint filing. They asked U.S. District Judge Reed OConnor to give them until Feb. 16 to provide a new update. That timetable would give the administration of President-elect Donald Trump a chance to review the issue before moving forward. In July, Boeing agreed to plead guilty to a criminal fraud conspiracy charge in the wake of two fatal 737 MAX crashes. The planemaker also agreed to pay a fine of up to $487.2 million and spend $455 million to improve safety and compliance practices over three years of court-supervised probation as part of the deal. Judge OConnor in Fort Worth, Texas, in December rejected the deal, seizing on a sentence in the plea agreement mentioning the DOJs diversity policy regarding the selection of an independent monitor to audit the planemakers compliance practices. Relatives of the victims of the two 737 MAX crashes, which occurred in 2018 and 2019 and killed 346 people, have called the plea agreement a sweetheart deal that failed to adequately hold Boeing accountable for the deaths of their loved ones. An accepted plea deal would brand Boeing a convicted felon for conspiring to defraud the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration about problematic software affecting the flight control systems in the planes that crashed. In May, the DOJ found Boeing had violated the terms of a 2021 agreement that had shielded it from prosecution over the crashes. Prosecutors then decided to criminally charge Boeing and negotiate the current plea deal. The decision followed a Jan. 5, 2024, in-flight blowout of a door panel on an Alaska Airlines jet that exposed ongoing safety and quality issues at Boeing. Topics USA Legislation Aviation Aerospace The Institutes and Sean Kevelighan, chief executive of the Insurance Information Institute, deny the allegations of discrimination and retaliation from former employee Michael Barry. According to a filing in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, Triple-I parent The Institutes and Kevelighan deny Barrys claims that he was fired after he tried to speak up for a gay coworker allegedly bullied and harassed by Kevelighan. The defendants, who have asked that the case by dismissed, also deny an annual bonus was withheld from Barry for any reason other than a substandard performance rating. The Institutes and Kevelighan deny that [Barry] distinguished himself as anything other than a mediocre employee whose record of job performance had declined two years in a row to the point where he was rated as needs development.' Barry worked at Triple-I for 17 years. When New York-based Triple-I agreed to affiliate with The Institutes in 2020, Barry became senior vice president, media relations and public affairs of Triple-I. Kevelighan remained Triple-I CEO after taking over for economist Robert Hartwig in 2016. Barry was fired March 6. Annual bonuses were announced on March 7. In his lawsuit originally filed in the Supreme Court for the State of New York, Barry said he testified in an internal investigation regarding an alleged heated and abusive verbal exchange with a gay employee in June 2023 during which Kevelighan allegedly used homophobic slurs and harassed the employee. Barrys performance review performed by Kevelighan came after Barrys testimony, he alleged, leading to him not getting a bonus for the time during his employment with Triple-I. Related: Former Triple-I Exec Says He Was Fired After Testifying in Bullying Case Against CEO The Institutes said Barrys performance on the job had declined for multiple years, and Triple-Is media citations have increased since he left. The timing of Barrys termination is not an issue since he would not have been eligible for a bonus regardless of when those bonuses were announced, The Institutes and Kevelighan responded in the Dec. 23 court filing. So far as the allegations related to harassment and intimidation, the defendants deny Kevelighan used abusive language, and specifically denied that Kevelighan ever used homophobic slurs or harassed any employees on the basis of sexual orientation or otherwise. The nonprofit whose mission is to educate risk management and insurance professionals with brands including Triple-I, CLM, Risk & Insurance, and Insurance Thought Leadership, said in the court document 12 employees, including Barry, did participate in a 2023 internal investigation by a third-party after an employee alleged harassment and discrimination. The employees were instructed that it was illegal to retaliate against anyone involved in the investigation, and employees were encouraged to notify a supervisor or human resources with concerns. Barry never reported retaliation, The Institutes said. Malvern, Pennsylvania-based The Institutes repeated said throughout the filing that it does not believe New York law applies to the dispute. Topics Claims Strate Insurance Group is merging with Main Street Insurance Group, a 127-year-old agency with locales in North Carolina. Strate officers said in a news release that the merged firm will operate as Strate Insurance Group, a Main Street Insurance Group Partner. All team members will remain with the new operation, and existing customers will continue working with Strates office in Morristown, Tennessee. Independent insurance agency Strate was founded in 1978 by Jack and Agnes Strate and Tom Strate. Main Street has roots dating to 1898 and has offices in Charlotte and three other North Carolina cities, as well as in Georgia. Main Street offers personal and business insurance and employee benefits. I had the good fortune to start Strate Insurance Group alongside my parents, and eight years ago welcomed my daughter, Katherine Strate Smith, to the business, Tom Strate said in a statement. It is a rare accomplishment to perpetuate a family-owned business into the third generation. Katherine Strate Smith will be a partner and owner in Main Street, while Tom Strate will serve in an advisory role. The merger was effective Jan. 1. Terms of the deal were not released. Topics Tennessee ASHEVILLE, N.C. (AP) New North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein took several actions on Thursday to help the short- and long-term recovery from Hurricane Helene, with an immediate focus on more temporary housing and repairs to private bridges and roads. Stein, who took his oath of office on Wednesday to succeed fellow Democrat Roy Cooper, traveled to Asheville and with legislators and officials from both parties behind him announced he had signed five executive orders related to the historic flooding in late September in western North Carolina. The needs facing this region are vast and require immediate attention, Stein said at a news conference. I pledge to do everything in my power as governor to accelerate recovery of the rebuilding of a more resilient region for the long haul. Over 100 people died in North Carolina because of Helene, which state officials estimate caused a record $59.6 billion in damages and recovery needs. Billions of dollars from the federal and state government already have been spent or earmarked for the recovery, and Congress last month committed at least another $9 billion in aid. But more must be done this winter to put more people in warm and safe housing on their own property, and to restore vital transportation links between small communities as well as first responders and school buses, Stein said. One executive order allows the state Department of Public Safety to purchase up to 1,000 temporary housing units through the end of next month without going through the usual state procurement and bidding processes. Stein said the Federal Emergency Management Agency is covering the costs of these units. FEMA is already following another regulatory process as it installs similar trailers on its own, he added. Stein also delegated to the Division of Emergency Management the ability to hire repair contractors for private bridges and roads without procurement requirements. It also lets environmental regulators waive rules to speed up permitting and inspections. More than 12,000 western North Carolinians are displaced from their homes due to Helene, which also caused significant damage to more than 8,000 private roads and bridges, Steins orders said. When I have met with affected folks here in the mountains, the need for housing assistance and the repairing of private bridges and roads has come up in nearly every conversation, he said. Western North Carolina I want you to know that I hear you. Another Stein order creates a new Governors Recovery Office for Western North Carolina and establishes within the Commerce Department a Division of Community Revitalization that in part will oversee the rebuilding of homes destroyed or damaged by Helene. The North Carolina Office of Recovery and Resiliency, which was created during Coopers administration, will stick to rebuilding homes in eastern North Carolina harmed by Hurricane Matthew in 2016 and Hurricane Florence in 2018, Stein said. Republicans in charge of the General Assembly have been angry with the pace of the agencys work and a fiscal shortfall for ongoing housing projects. Stein also issued an order giving many state employees more paid leave this year to volunteer for Helene-related recovery efforts, and he agreed to continue a Helene recovery advisory committee that he created after his November election victory. GOP state Sen. Kevin Corbin, who has co-chaired the panel with Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer, said Thursday that Steins actions were bipartisan commonsense solutions. New State Auditor Dave Boliek, also a Republican, released a statement later Thursday telling Stein that his department would hold Steins office accountable on how money stemming from the orders gets spent. Given past failures to effectively provide hurricane relief to Eastern North Carolina, it is in the best interest of Hurricane Helene victims that our office takes such action, Boliek said. Photo: North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein took the oath of office Jan. 1. AP Photo/Gary D. Robertson) Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics North Carolina Shoppers are turning their backs on the major supermarkets this year. Aussie mum Mel told Yahoo she has made a big shift away from Coles and Woolworths. Source: Tiktok/Getty With trust in Coles and Woolworths at an all-time low and the cost of living crisis showing no signs of slowing down, Aussies are looking to make a change in 2025. Mum Mel told Yahoo News Australia that she had felt a "call" to no longer support the big supermarkets based on "increasing profits" and stories of disgruntled suppliers. "I became fed up with my local supermarkets only having half of the items on my list and the produce they did have being really poor quality," she said. In October 2024, she took action and searched for alternative retailers for her weekly shop. Now, she uses a combination of online retailers and smaller local shops. "I find the quality so much better," she said, adding that the prices are "pretty comparable" and that surprisingly, it's also "really convenient." More Aussies making big supermarket shift After sharing her experience online, Mel found that more and more Aussies were doing the same thing. "Im also boycotting," one woman shared with others pledging to do the same. ADVERTISEMENT Mel believes people are looking for "something different" in the new year. "I think a lot of people are seeking something different this year but are scared to make the jump or have a fear that it will add pressure financially," she said. "I think there has been a big shift given the increase in cost of living and platforms like TikTok giving farmers and growers a voice." Shoppers are becoming increasingly critical of Australia's major supermarkets. Source: Getty Ethical consumption at the forefront of consumer's minds Consumer specialist Professor Gary Mortimer from Queensland University of Technology (QUT) told Yahoo that while the new year usually brings goal setting, commitments to becoming an "ethical consumer" are increasingly common. "The idea of being an ethical consumer focuses on shifting our share of the wallet from major supermarkets to local retailers," he explained. "We tend to start the year with some audacious and ethical goals. The challenge of course is the distance between intentions and behaviour." ADVERTISEMENT Mortimer added that "cost of living will continue throughout this year" and as a result, consumers will be more focused on items that create "better value" than the "cheapest". "Buying cheap is great, but buying great value is better," he said. Aldi has also been a saviour for many Australians struggling with the cost of living as consumers look to make savings in their grocery budgets. Mark Serrels, editorial director at consumer advocacy group CHOICE, previously told Yahoo that Aldi will continue to expand this year as shoppers move away from Coles and Woolworths. First, in this cost of living crisis, the supermarkets have been making record profits so theres the sense they are making heaps of money while consumers are struggling," Serrels said. "Consumers have also become cynical about specials." ADVERTISEMENT CHOICE has repeatedly fielded complaints from shoppers lifting specials tags and finding the same or lower prices underneath. "Its all about these big red labels and low price deals but when they arent actually deals, consumers trust a little less," he said. What will supermarkets be doing differently in 2025? Mortimer believes that both Coles and Woolworths will be working hard to improve their reputations in the new year. "Its fair to say that theyve had a pretty big hit to their brand reputation both falling out of the top 10 most trusted brands report from Roy Morgan," he said. "I think theyll be working towards strengthening that brand trust again and reconnecting with their core consumers." ADVERTISEMENT It follows a senate inquiry into grocery pricing and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) launching legal action against Coles and Woolworths for alleged breaches of consumer law in September. The government has passed legislation to overhaul Australia's merger system to encourage healthy competition and cracked down on shrinkflation in a bid to help the cost of living pinch in supermarkets. The Food and Grocery Code has also been made mandatory with multi-million-dollar penalties for harmful breaches. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. Suzanne Valadon Centre Pompidou, Paris, January 15 May 26 Born in Montmartre, Paris in 1865, Suzanne Valadon was many things; a waitress, a circus acrobat, and a model. She also taught herself to paint, and her portraits and landscapes were greatly admired by contemporaries such as Georges Braques and Pablo Picasso. This retrospective brings together over 200 of Valadons drawings and paintings, and will be one of the last major exhibitions at the Pompidou before it closes for a five-year refurbishment. Dorothy Cross, Kinship book February 13 Dorothy Cross working with the UCC mummy. Dorothy Crosss Kinship project involved the return of a 2,000 year old Egyptian mummy long part of UCCs antiquities collection to the Museum of Cairo, a mission that was finally accomplished in early December. Crosss book on the project, featuring essays by President Michael D Higgins, Max Porter and Edward de Waal, amongst others, will be published by Lilliput in February. MAKE 2025 Cork School of Music, March 8 Dorothy Cross will also be one of the guest speakers at the annual MAKE conference, hosted by Crawford College of Art and Design Contemporary Applied Arts Department at Cork School of Music in March. This years conference has Art/Interspecies as its theme, and will also feature appearances by performative filmmaker Marcus Coates, Dark Ecology author Timothy Morton, and Slovenian artist Sasa Spacal. Mainie Jellett & Evie Hone: The Art of Friendship National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin April 10 August 10 One of Mainie Jellett's Cubism-related works. Mainie Jellett and Evie Hone were both from Dublin, and met while studying art in London. They went on to study in Paris in the early 1920s. The two are often credited with introducing Cubism to Ireland. Along with Louis le Brocquy, Jack Hanlon and Norah McGuinness, they helped found the ground-breaking Irish Exhibition of Living Art in 1944. The Art of Friendship will feature 90 drawings, paintings and works in stained glass. Do Ho Suh: Walk the House Tate Modern, London, May 1 October 19 Do Ho Suh is best known for creating elaborate installations replicating the houses he has lived in, in his native South Korea, America, and the UK. Fabrics are his favoured medium. This survey will cover the past 30 years of his career, and will also include mosaics compiled from thousands of photographs. Jenny Saville: The Anatomy of Painting National Portrait Gallery, London, June 20 September 7 A file picture of Jenny Saville with one of her artworks. Jenny Saville was one of a loose group of Young Brit Artists championed by Charles Saatchi in the early 1990s. She stood out for her devotion to classical figurative painting, and particularly her studies of the female nude, imbued with a decidedly contemporary spirit. The Anatomy of Painting is her first major museum exhibition, and brings together 50 of her charcoal drawings and paintings. Sean Scully: Stories Bucerius Kunst Forum, Hamburg, June 27 November 2 Sean Scully Dublin-born and London raised, Sean Scully is one of the most successful artists in the world. Though best-known for his epic abstract paintings, he also works in sculpture and print, and has also explored figuration in recent years. Scullys 80th birthday in June coincides with the opening of this major retrospective, featuring work from throughout the past 60 years. Emily Kame Kngwarreye Tate Modern, London, July 10 January 11 Emily Kam Kngwarray, an Aboriginal Australian woman from the Utopia region in the Northern Territory, only began painting in her 70s. By the time of her death, aged 86 in 1996, she had produced over 3,000 works in acrylics. Her exhibition at Tate Modern is the first major survey of her oeuvre in Europe. EVA International Various venues, Limerick, August 29 October 26 The 41st EVA International will see Irish and international creatives occupy spaces all over Limerick city, in what remains the largest biennale visual arts event in Ireland. This years edition will feature a guest programme curated by Eszter Szakacs, along with new artist commissions selected by Iarlaith Ni Fheorais and Roy Claire Potter. Gilbert and George: 21st Century Pictures Hayward Gallery, London, October 7 January 4 The London art worlds most loveable eccentrics opened their own museum in Spitalfields in 2023. This autumn, the Hayward Gallery will assemble a collection of Gilbert and Georges major photographic works from the past 25 years, all in a garish palette of colours. Represented will be series such as New Horny Pictures (2001), The Beard Pictures (2016) and The Corpsing Pictures (2022), exploring the themes of sex, religion, corruption and death. More students attend multi-denominational post-primary schools now than Catholic schools as enrolments continued to increase last year. Figures from the Department of Education show that 206,792 students now attend a multi-denominational post-primary school, representing 48.6% of student enrolments. A further 202,351 pupils attend Catholic post-primary schools, representing 47.6% of enrolments, and more than 12,400 students attend Church of Ireland schools. The number of enrolments at multi-denominational post-primary schools exceeded the numbers enrolled at Catholic schools for the first time ever during the 2023/24 school year. Enrolments have continued to increase at multi-denominational schools, up by a further 572 students since last September, new figures from the department show. This compares to a rise of 3,103 in the number of students attending Catholic post-primary schools. Church of Ireland schools also saw a small decrease in enrolments, from 12,416 in 2023 to 12,404 in 2024. According to the Department of Education, the number of post-primary schools has been gradually increasing for the last number of years. This went from a low of 700 in 2013, to a high of 730 in 2020. Numbers have since fallen to 722 in 2024 due to a decrease in Catholic schools, it stated. Meanwhile, the number of multi-denominational schools has increased by 11.5%, from 321 in 2013 to 358 in 2024. In the same period, the number of Catholic schools has decreased by 4.3%, from 350 to 337. Catholic ethos A number of closures, amalgamations, and openings have led to a gradual decline in the total number of primary schools, the figures from the Department of Education show. However, despite these changes, Catholic schools still make up the majority of mainstream primary schools, with 88.3% of schools having a Catholic ethos in 2024. Since 2013, the number of Catholic primary schools has fallen by 121, from 2,843 to 2,722, while the number of multi-denominational schools has risen from 104 to 170, an increase of 63%. The figures also show that the largest increase in enrolments at both primary and post-primary combined occurred in multi-denominational schools, up a further 2.5% between 2023 and 2024. Overall, 251,804 students attend multi-denominational primary and post-primary schools as of September 2024 compared to 681,849 attending Catholic schools. Total enrolments in post-primary schools stood at 425,433 as of last September (2024), an increase of 8,858 pupils, or 2.1%, when compared to September 2023. This includes enrolments of 7,177 Ukrainian pupils. Excluding Ukrainian students, enrolments increased by 8,517. The use of community sanctions instead of short jail stays should be examined by the incoming Government as a way to prevent lower reoffending rates, a prison reform body has said. The Irish Penal Reform Trust says that that people imprisoned for short sentences often have the highest rates of reoffending following their release. The trusts executive director, Saoirse Brady, said: It is well-documented that short sentences offer limited scope to engage in some of the positive rehabilitative services available in prison such as addiction services, psychology, and training programmes. "On the other hand, community sanctions which are sentences served in the community often have lower reoffending rates, are less damaging than prison, are less costly, and provide benefits to the community. Ms Brady also says that sentences of 12 months or less can have a disproportionate impact on an offender and their path towards desistance, when contrasted against equivalent community-based sanctions. Richard O'Brien has almost 550 convictions. Picture: Hany Marzouk She was speaking to the Irish Examiner during the investigation into the life and crimes of one of Irelands most prolific offenders, Richard OBrien, of 14 Ardshanavooley, Killarney, Co Kerry, who has almost 550 convictions. Among his sentences was a five-day imprisonment imposed at Tralee District Court last year for intoxication in a public place. Experiences with poverty According to the Irish Prison Service, there were 4,975 individuals in custody on September 30. Of this figure, just 1,642 (33%) were in custody for the first time meaning that two thirds of the prison population were repeat offenders. Meanwhile, the recently formed Irish Penal Abolition Network says the 1,100 extra prison spaces promised by the outgoing Government exceeds the pace of population growth projected in the same time frame. It argues that the focus needs to be on meeting the needs of people at community level to tackle causes for offending, adding: Most prisoners come from a small number of very deprived neighbourhoods, have left school early, and lack basic literacy skills. Many are homeless prior to going into prison and will be released into homelessness. "The vast majority of prisoners also have addiction or mental health problems, and are likely to experience severe deterioration of these while in prison. They will then be released into under-resourced communities, and so the cycle continues. Last month, the Irish Examiner revealed that more than 1,000 prisoners are being crammed into cells on bunk beds or mattresses on the floor because of overcrowding. A Northern Ireland rescue team that travelled to Spain to search for a missing Belfast man has returned home after scouring 350km of land. Members of K9 Search And Rescue NI, a volunteer canine search team, travelled to Alicante to join the wide-scale operation to find 37-year-old John George. Mr George, also known as John Hardy, had been holidaying in the Spanish city and was last in touch with his family on December 14. He was reported missing four days later after he failed to board his flight home to Northern Ireland. John George (left) with his brother Darren (Family Handout/PA) His family believe the father-of-two is dead. Seven K9 search technicians and their Labrador retriever Rocko took part in the operation. They searched almost 1,200 acres of land, with more than 350km covered by foot, dogs and a drone. Rocko is a victim recovery and live air-scenting dog and was instrumental in leading the search team. Despite thorough searches, the team did not find anything related to Mr George. Alicia Huntley, a handler for Rocko, said it was an opportunity to help the family. It was really important to be able to be there and help the family as best we could, and be able to to use our training to help them Ms Huntley and Rocko arrived back at Dublin Airport with colleague Gary Pullen on Sunday night. The areas we searched were really big. Some were very dense areas, some more sparse, like open wasteland, she told the PA news agency. I was working alongside Rocko, my dog, and he works the wind through scenting. It was really hard going, but we worked really well as a team and covered a lot of distance. The dogs and us, we are trained to search for long days, so its stuff that were prepared for, thats not new to us, and we are trained to do that. It was the different types of area that was sort of newer and we had to manage the temperature. The dogs coped really, really well in the heat actually. We stayed hydrated and stopped in the shade when we needed to. It was nice to be able to apply our skills. Were trained, we do know what were doing when were searching and we applied our skills to a different place, but in reality, it looks the same as what we do and what were prepared for. Search teams in Alicante (K9 Search and Rescue/PA) For us, it was really important to be able to be there and help the family as best we could, and be able to to use our training to help them. There was a lot of family and friends out, and we saw them searching, and we worked in some areas beside them. It felt like we were able to help them and we have the extra skill set of the dogs, which makes a big difference when youre searching. Gary, a search technician and medic, said their presence gave the family a boost. He said: If it was my son or my daughter, I would want people out searching. We train every week for different types of scenarios. So it was good to put our training in place, but also show people that we can do what we are trained to do, and also to support the family. I think it was a great boost to them, and it raised their morale. Ive got to thank Iberia Airlines as well for taking Rocko out. It was logistically difficult because some of the team went out via Belfast, and we had to come via Dublin. So we need to thank them for the care they took of us. Gary Pullen and Alicia Huntley with victim recovery specialist Rocko (Cate McCurry/PA) We didnt want to come back at all. Its disappointing for us (not to find anything), we want to do the job, and we want to reunite their son with them. So if they want us to come back out again, we are all volunteers and we are willing to go, and if we can get the team together, we will go. He said searching for a body is a challenge. Thats why Rocko is out. He can pick up a scent quite a way off, he added. Ryan, our team leader, liaised mostly with the family and the Spanish authorities. We are guided by him and hell collate the information and then send us to where he believes is a viable area and thats what weve done. Mr Georges brother previously made a plea for any information about his whereabouts. Darren George is in Alicante helping in the search with parents Billy and Sharon and sisters Courtney and Caitlin, along with up to 50 friends and wider family from Northern Ireland. Someone knows where John is. They need to give it up, and they need to give the location, whether its done anonymously, he said. Enoch Burke has returned to Wilson's Hospital School in Westmeath, where he used to teach, as it opened after the Christmas holidays. The teacher had previously been jailed for contempt of court for refusing to abide by a court order directing him to stay away from the school. The funeral Mass of one of the oldest survivors and campaigners for justice for the Tuam mother and baby home has heard she was never broken by her life experiences. Rosaleen (Rosie) McKinney, nee Furey, 86, was laid to rest on Monday morning, following her requiem Mass at Christ the King Church in Cabra, north Dublin. A photo of Rosie McKinney, who died following a short illness on New Years Day. Picture: Gareth Chaney Rosie, who grew up in Dunmore in Co Galway, was just 15 when she was placed in the controversial institution for unmarried mothers. Two of her children were taken by the nuns and adopted, while a third died she did reconnect with her children in later years. On Monday morning, parish priest Fr Paul Thornton said it was fitting the brave mother who contributed so much to society was buried on Nollaig na mBan Womens Christmas. About 200 people attended the service for Rosie, who died following a short illness on New Years Day. Her lifelong friend and former Labour minister Joe Costello delivered a powerful eulogy, where he recalled how Rosie described the nuns as devils and merciless. He said: Rosie was remarkable woman. Much of her early life was hard and harsh. She described some of the nuns in the institutions where she was placed as quote devils unquote and merciless but she equally acknowledged the kindness of other nuns." Breaking down in tears, Mr Costello said: Rosie was never broken by her life experiences. What life threw at her she simply took it all in her stride. She encountered more obstacles in life than most. She faced up to them and she overcame them. She never complained. Most importantly there was no self-pity. She never saw herself as a victim. That was her strength and her character." Rosie is survived by her daughter, Margaret Mags McKinney, and her stepson Tony McKinney, as well as her grandchildren, relatives and wide circle of friends. Labour Leader Ivana Bacik at the funeral. Picture: Colin Keegan/Collins Offertory gifts during the service included a radio, because Rosie hated the telly but loved music and listening to the news. Her hairbrush was also brought to the altar by family as well as her favourite snack popcorn and a teddy bear. Former tanaiste and leader of the Labour Party Joan Burton brought up the Thirst for Justice Award which was presented to Ms McKinney by the party in recent years in recognition of her bravery as a campaigner and activist for survivors of mother and baby homes. Maureen Sullivan, the youngest Magdalene Laundry survivor, at the funeral: 'Rosie was a legend and so resilient in the face of adversity. Picture: Colin Keegan/Collins Ms Burton is also a survivor and adoptee and as former minister for social protection, she released the names of the 796 children who died in the Tuam mother and baby home following the expose of their mass grave in a septic tank in 2014. Ms Kinneys funeral was also attended by Magdalene survivor Maureen Sullivan, who recently appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show regarding her life the former New Ross laundry. She told the Irish Examiner: Rosie was a legend and so resilient in the face of adversity. She was a great campaigner and even in her older years, she laid a wreath for the unmarked graves in St Marys cemetery in Carlow. She also took part in a guard of honour at the funeral procession for Sinead OConnor in Bray in 2023, Sinead a survivor of a Magdalene laundry. Rosie was born in 1938 and grew up on a farm in the west of Ireland and was particularly fond of the farm horse and dogs her Mass heard. However, her life changed forever when as a single woman, she became pregnant and was placed in the Tuam mother and baby home. Joe Costello said: She was then taken to the Magdalene Laundry in Galway City, eventually she and another girl escaped from the laundry by clambering over the wall and walking all night to reach her home in Dunmore. They were taken in by her parents and when shortly afterwards the nuns and gardai came looking to take them back, she threatened her dogs on them and they left empty handed. She later moved to Dublin and into another Regina Coeli, the hostel for women run by the Legion of Mary, before she met her husband Thomas McKinney a former Irish soldier, and widower with one son Tony. Over the next two decades, Rosie and her daughter Mags worked tirelessly with Joe Costello to bring about legislation to provide redress and support for survivors. She campaigned for a remembrance centre which is under way at Sean MacDermot former laundry", said Mr Costello. Ms McKinney's remains were later brought to Glasnevin crematorium where Noirin Ban and Tina Turners Simply the Best were played during the ceremony. Why is everyone talking about HMPV? This virus human metapneumovirus is in the news due to a rapid surge in cases in one region of China. People are understandably extra vigilant about any such reports in light of recent experience in the covid pandemic. However, this is not a new virus and was discovered around turn of the century in the Netherlands. It also circulates during the winter across Europe, including Ireland. It is in the same family of viruses as another common illness RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). It is a respiratory disease that causes flu or cold-like symptoms. Like other respiratory conditions, it can lead to more serious complications like bronchitis or pneumonia particularly among the elderly, young children, and immunocompromised people. What is happening in China? Cases have been surging in northern China, particularly among children, according to local authorities. The countrys centre for disease control (CDC) has warned people to take precautions with health and hygiene, but has also pushed back against online claims of overwhelmed hospitals and fears of another covid-like pandemic. Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, said on Friday. The diseases appear to be less severe and spread with a smaller scale compared to the previous year The apparent increase in cases is likely partly due to new technology more easily detecting and identifying HMPV, experts told the Guardian. They also stressed that, unlike covid, this is a virus which has been around for some time, so there is a level of immunity in the global population from past infections. What should you do if you catch this virus? Niamh Lynch, a consultant in paediatrics at the Bon Secours Hospital in Cork, took to Instagram to re-assure people in light of media reports on HMPV. I see this every day of the week, every week of the winter because its nothing new, she said. We deal with human metapneumovirus all the time. Niamh Lynch said that the treatment for HMPV can include 'pain relief, fluids, and plenty of rest'. She said the symptoms can be managed much the same as any other horrible illness. She said treatment can include "pain relief, fluids, plenty of rest and contacting with your doctor if you are concerned about yourself or your child. How can you reduce your chances of getting ill? There are no vaccines against this virus. However, precautions which people take against catching a cold or developing the flu can also protect against catching HMPV. Experts have urged people to stay home if they feel ill, as well as to practice the cough and sneeze etiquette everyone learned so well during the pandemic. Hand washing is another protection against the spread of any respiratory disease. The HSE in Cork and Kerry has already re-introduced compulsory mask-wearing across all HSE sites to combat the upsurge of influenza, covid, and RSV. Additional reporting from The Guardian. Parts of Kerry saw levels of snowfall that had never previously been seen over the weekend, according to locals. Education Minister Norma Foley told RTE's Morning Ireland on Monday she had never seen the "level of snowfall" they saw in the county on Sunday. Thousands have been left without power across the country following heavy ice and snow over the weekend. More wintry showers are on the way after Met Eireann issued a fresh countrywide snow and ice warning. The warning is in place until midday on Tuesday. Labour councillor in the Killarney area Marie Moloney said she had "never seen snow fall so continuously for so long". She added she was confined to her home over the weekend due to the steep hill outside her home. She said the snow that accumulated near her home measured up to five inches. "There was also a video of trees being pulled down by the weight of the snow outside Killarney, it was quite a heavy snowfall," Ms Moloney added. The store manager at Sheahan's Centra on Killarney's Main Street, Magda Fudyma, said they remained open as normal but were not too sure what time they may end up closing the store. She added the shop was "very quiet" on Monday, adding the footpaths in town were "dangerous". Killarney National Park on Sunday morning. Local councillor Jackie Healy-Rae said Kilgarvan and Kenmare did not see much snow but did get a "light sprinkle of it" "There are some places in Kilgarvan that did see snow, but the low-lying areas did not see much. But if you moved to Killarney and North Kerry, you would see significant snowfall," he said. Mr Healy-Rae agreed it was one of the worst snowfalls they had seen. The councillor said Ms Foley's statement was 100% correct and "there are places in this county that had never seen snow" that are seeing it now. He said he spoke to one person who said he got "14 inches of snow in his backyard". Councillor Paul Daly said the roads were "tricky enough" on Monday morning and saw people walking on the roads instead of the footpaths due to compacted snow in Tralee. He added the heavy snowfall "all came within 24 hours" and that it happened "very quickly." "There was no sign of it, there was no build-up of it. It happened very very quickly, overnight on Saturday night into Monday morning," Mr Daly added. Killarney during heavy snowfall on Sunday. Driving conditions remain hazardous throughout Kerry and a number of roads were closed on Monday morning, with Kerry County Council urging motorists to "only travel if necessary" and to not travel on closed roads or high mountain passes. All 741km of priority routes were treated twice overnight and snow ploughs were deployed to clear national routes. "Snow in low-lying areas melting but a lot of snow on the ground in parts of Mid, North and East Kerry," a Kerry County Council spokesperson said. Violent clashes witnessed inside and outside of a supermarket have shocked the community on Cork City's northside. Video shared on social media shows a small group of balaclava-clad men inside the SuperValu in Hollyhill wildly swinging what appear to be metal bats at a pair of men on the other side of one of the shop's counters. One of the men behind the counter only narrowly avoids being struck. The video cuts off as three of the men involved back out of the store holding weapons and their mobile phones while a group of the store's staff plead with them to leave. A second video, seen by the Irish Examiner, shows a crowd of men fleeing as another man drives a pickup truck in their direction before crashing into a car in the supermarket's parking area. The violent scenes are understood to be linked to a feud between two groups in the area. Newly elected TD for Cork North Central Ken O'Flynn said he was "saddened and appalled" by what had unfolded at the supermarket. Mr O'Flynn said he had witnessed and received information about "multiple reports of shocking acts of antisocial behaviour across various parts of the city north, south, east, and west" in recent weeks. "We must advocate for more boots on the ground and improved resources to combat crime effectively," he said. Mr O'Flynn added that it was time "for us to unite as a community to address these pressing issues and ensure that our local spaces, like Supervalu, remain safe and welcoming for everyone". A garda spokesperson told the Irish Examiner: "Gardai were alerted to reports of a disturbance that occurred at a shopping centre in Hollyhill, Cork. "At approximately 4.30pm, gardai attended the scene where a large number of persons had gathered and brought the matter under control. "Investigations are ongoing." As a new year dawns, resolutions are being made by many to change their lives, to learn something new, to visit somewhere different. For Richard OBrien, one of Irelands most prolific offenders who currently has almost 550 convictions, the new year brings freedom but it remains to be seen for how long that freedom will last. Sitting in a courtroom before Judge Brian OCallaghan in Galway Circuit Court on December 5, the Kerry man's future lay in the judges hands. The possibility of the triggering of an 18-month suspended sentence from a conviction in June 2022 for a Galway burglary was hanging over him, thanks to his having re-offended twice in the aftermath of that court conviction for a burglary in Claddagh, in Galway City. Sitting alongside prison officers, the tall, burly OBrien cut a quiet presence as he awaited his fate, after his probation officer, Catriona Brosnan, told the court he had not fully complied with the conditions of the suspension. Richard O'Brien outside Galway Court: He has almost 550 convictions. Picture: Hany Marzouk She said while he had a relatively good probation attendance initially, this deteriorated over time and there was also a relapse with alcohol. She also referenced his convictions one for intoxication in a public place in Killarney in June and another for a burglary of a hairdressers' business in Fermoy in July. Barrister Conall McCarthy told the court on the day about O'Brien's loss of his relatives in a Killarney accident and continued: He has had a life of struggles with alcohol, he is an older man now. I cant in any way put a gloss on the fact that he committed two offences. He urged Judge OCallaghan not to trigger the 18-month suspended sentence and asked the court to give him one last chance. In agreeing to do so, Judge OCallaghan said there was a co-accused in the case relating to the Claddagh burglary who was the more senior offender and he said Richard OBrien had encountered a serious challenge in his life. 'One final chance' With my fingers crossed, I am not making any order and I will not revoke any part of the 18-month suspension. He said he was giving him one final chance. OBrien is one of many recidivists within the Irish prison system. According to the Irish Prison Service, there were 4,975 individuals in custody on September 30, of which just 1,642 (33%) were in custody for the first time meaning two thirds of the prison population were repeat offenders. Statistics released by the Central Statistics Office in 2023 showed three in every five people released from prison reoffended within the following three years, after analysis of the prisoners released in 2017. The study found the three-year recidivism rate stood at 78% for burglars and public order offenders, 71% for those convicted of theft and related offences, 40% for drug offenders and 12% for sex offenders. However, recidivism rates have also been shown to be high for people given probation in lieu of a court conviction, according to a report issued in November from the CSO. The report found 27% of those given probation by the courts in 2019 had reoffended by 2020. It found 55% of men aged 17 or younger offended within a year of being given probation, with the rate dropping to 23% in the 25-44 age group. For women, the rate of reoffending within the first year stood at 25%. Director general of the Irish Prison Service Caron McCaffrey acknowledged engaging in education and work training could reduce the risk of prisoners reoffending on release, and admitted resources for prison schools were under pressure. The issue of legal aid for reoffenders is one which has often been highlighted by politicians, and earlier this year, then taoiseach Leo Varadkar said in the Dail that justice minister Helen McEntee was giving examination to a suggestion that perhaps the cost of legal aid could be recouped from recidivists after they are found guilty. When asked by the Irish Examiner if this was under consideration, a Department of Justice spokesman said the General Scheme of the Criminal Justice (Legal Aid) Bill 2023 published last year would modernise the operation of the Criminal Legal Aid Scheme, introducing strengthened oversight and governance structures for criminal legal aid. It is intended that the Criminal Legal Aid Bill will update the court application and eligibility process, and, in appropriate cases, an applicant may be subject to an assessment of income. Following this assessment, the Legal Aid Board will be able to recommend to the court if the applicant can make a contribution to the costs of legal aid. There is also a dedicated team in the department working on this reform. They are currently laying the foundations for an improved, more efficient system of administering criminal legal aid. Concern over prisoner rehabilitation As the countrys prisons deal with a record-breaking number of inmates, there is concern chances for rehabilitation of prisoners will take more and more of a hit because of the growing pressure on staff. Richard OBriens track record is indicative of a failure in attempts at rehabilitation. During a session of the Oireachtas Public Accounts Committee in February, the director general of the Irish Prison Service, Caron McCaffrey, acknowledged engaging in education and work training could reduce the risk of prisoners reoffending on release, and admitted resources for prison schools were under pressure. She revealed 101 full-day closures in schools across the prison estate in the first eight months of last year. The predominant draw from prisons is on escorts. We have received additional funding to increase the number of staff in our escort corps and we have been working towards that, but certainly the number of school closures has been reducing and every prison has a regime management plan and there is a very strong effort made by all governors to keep our school and our work training activities open because when people are engaged in structured activity it also contributes to safer prisons for those prisoners and for our staff. A spokesman for the Irish Prison Service said information requested by this newspaper on how many school day closures to date in 2024 and all of last year is not readily available to the press office and such an exercise would require a manual examination of an inordinate number of individual records which is not possible given the current pressure on staff resources. On November 6, 2024, the numbers in the prison system reached an all-time high of 5,124 in custody and a further 523 on temporary release. On that day, the Midlands Prison where Richard OBrien was in custody was running at 12% over capacity. In its annual report for 2023 published last December, the Irish Prison Service noted the daily average prison population in 2023 was 4,582, up 11.2% from 4,122 in 2022. Saoirse Brady, executive director of the Irish Penal Reform Trust: 'It is well-documented that short sentences offer limited scope to engage in some of the positive rehabilitative services available in prison such as addiction services, psychology and training programmes.' It highlighted there was a notable increase in committals for the non-payment of fines, rising from 205 in 2022 to 552 in 2023. And it said that 3,035 persons were on remand in 2023, highlighting the ongoing challenge of managing remand prisoners in addition to those serving sentences. Prison overcrowding The Irish Penal Reform Trust (IPRT) executive director Saoirse Brady says the overcrowding situation is concerning from a human rights perspective. Crowded prisons with reduced access to overstretched services undermine opportunities to address the root causes of offending and could impact future reoffending rates. We know that people imprisoned for short sentences often have the highest rates of re-offending following their release. "It is well-documented that short sentences offer limited scope to engage in some of the positive rehabilitative services available in prison such as addiction services, psychology and training programmes. "On the other hand, community sanctions, which are sentences served in the community, often have lower reoffending rates, are less damaging than prison, are less costly, and provide benefits to the community. The release of the latest Irish Prison Service annual report in December highlighted a significant increase of people committed to prison in Ireland in 2023, including an increase in people committed on short sentences of less than 12 months, more women imprisoned and nearly a tripling of the number of people being imprisoned for non-payment of fines, according to the IPRT. In calling on the incoming government to take action to reduce prison numbers, Ms Brady said: In public attitudes polling commissioned by IPRT in October 2024, four out of five people stated that it is important for them that the next government prioritises alternatives to imprisonment in response to non-violent offending (81 per cent). Two thirds of people did not think that prison expansion was the solution to address overcrowding, and when asked how they would spend a budget of 10m to tackle crime, additional prison places ranked fifth out of a list of seven options. She cited the Prison Overcrowding Response Group, delivered to Justice Minister Helen McEntee in March last year but only made public recently through a Freedom of Information request. The report highlighted the increased prisoner population resulted in pressures on staff and had "a direct knock-on effect" of decreasing access to education and rehabilitation services. The cumulative effect of prison overcrowding is not limited to the prisons then, as the disruption to services intended to address root causes of offending or provide supports to prepare individuals for release, decrease the likelihood of reintegration. This ultimately results in an increased threat to public safety. The report ironically was made public on the same day Richard OBrien received his most recent sentence a five-day imprisonment for intoxication in a public place, at a court hearing in Tralee. Reducing short sentences Ms Brady said the report recognised the disproportionate impact short sentences of 12 months or less may have on individuals and their path towards desistance, when contrasted against equivalent community-based sanctions. The group proposed a number of clear and practical solutions to addressing short sentences, including engaging with the judiciary (while recognising their independence) to encourage the use of community service orders rather than imposing short sentences of 12 months or less, and expanding eligibility of the drug treatment court for people sentenced for low-level drug offences. The newly-established Irish Penal Abolition Network compiled a document ahead of last November's general election calling for three things an end to prison expansion; a reduction in the prison population, and an invest in communities. According to the Department of Justice, the capital budget for the Irish Prison Service will increase by more than 70% in 2025 as part of the plan to deliver 1,100 extra spaces between now and 2030 and hire hundreds of extra staff. It comes amid efforts by the outgoing government to expand prison spaces to meet the increased prison population. According to the Department of Justice, the capital budget for the Irish Prison Service will increase by more than 70% in 2025 as part of the plan to deliver 1,100 extra spaces between now and 2030 and hire hundreds of extra staff. As part of the plan, 150 prison staff are to be hired in 2025, in addition to 240 prison officers recruited last year. According to the department, the plan represents one of the fastest ever expansions of prison capacity in Ireland. Referencing the Prison Overcrowding Response Group report, a department spokesman said actions proposed by the group currently being implemented include developing new, innovative responses to deliver structured temporary release for suitable prisoners, progressing actions to increase the use of community service as a priority, and advancing legislative changes to support the delivery of community-based sanctions more generally. In addition, and to further consider future prison capacity needs, the minister for justice has established a new working group which will make recommendations on the numbers and types of prison capacity needed out to 2035. However, in the wake of November's general election, law and order is just one of a long list of areas fighting for space on the new programme for government to be drawn up ahead a new government being put in place. In its pre-election campaign, the Irish Penal Abolition Network said the 53m allocated to capital funding for prison expansion in the recently-announced budget for 2025 could be spent in ways which would strengthen communities and impact individuals most at risk of contact with our systems of punishment. It argues investment in communities makes communities safer than extra prison spaces do. Prisons punish vulnerable people while directing essential financial resources away from communities. Instead of prison spaces, we need to redistribute wealth and income to provide universal public services, healthcare, housing, transport infrastructure and opportunities for living well. "Support those who are practising harm reduction in their communities. Highlighting spending an additional 25m on Housing First would increase its 2024 allocation by more than two-thirds, the network added: While 18m could provide five-week residential placement, 10-week outpatient placement, and 24 months of continuing care for up to 1,000 people. An additional 5m would provide 500 annual apprenticeships, with the remaining 5m committed to diversion programmes. According to the network, the 1,100 extra prison spaces promised by the outgoing government exceeds the pace of population growth projected in the same time frame. It argues the focus needs to be on meeting the needs of people at community level to tackle causes for offending, and says: Most prisoners come from a small number of very deprived neighbourhoods; have left school early and lack basic literacy skills. Many are homeless prior to going into prison and will be released into homelessness. The vast majority of prisoners also have addiction or mental health problems, and are likely to experience severe deterioration of these while in prison. They will then be released into under-resourced communities, and so the cycle continues. Saoirse Brady echoes this. If we truly want to tackle reoffending rates, we need to take a step back and look at where greater investment would actually make a meaningful difference, namely prioritising community-based wraparound supports that target the root causes of criminality and support people to overcome any underlying challenges they face. "We cannot expect someone who is imprisoned to address those challenges in an environment where trauma is rife, offers no respite from those challenges and may indeed exacerbate them. Many factors that can prevent reoffending, such as good mental health, access to addiction recovery supports, accommodation, education, and employment, sit outside the scope of the justice system, meaning there is clear need for a whole-of-government and person-centred approach to support individuals in the criminal justice system and to make our communities safer as whole. "When we hear warnings from the Irish Prison Service about the high number of people in prison solely due to their homeless status, we need to think about the supports they require that would make a difference. Addiction and mental health Efforts to address addiction and mental health issues within the prison system are also suffering, according to statistics provided by Caron McCaffrey at a September sitting of the Oireachtas committee on drug use. She revealed 600 prisoners were seeing an addiction counsellor, but 800 were on a waiting list for the service, with more than 70% of the prisoner population struggling with addiction. There were 600 inmates seeing a psychologist, with a further waiting list of 2,000 others. As of August 1, 2024, the number of people being treated through the prison psychology service was 526, while about 2,090 were waiting to be seen. According to the Irish Prison Service, the average wait time for a psychology service is 31.4 days. The visiting committee for the Dochas centre for women in Mountjoy reported: 'As Visiting Committee, we reiterate our significant concern and unease about the inappropriate detention of women with serious mental ill-health in the Dochas Centre.' In August, prison visiting committees for 2022 were published by the Department of Justice and several raised concerns about mentally-ill people being in the prison justice system. For example, the visiting committee for the Dochas centre for women in Mountjoy reported: As Visiting Committee, we reiterate our significant concern and unease about the inappropriate detention of women with serious mental ill-health in the Dochas Centre and continue to request urgent action in this matter. Our concerns also reflect international best practice. "The Bangkok rules state that women who are in prison should have gender-specific responses to mental health care and that alternatives to prison should be available for women. The report for Mountjoy mens prison highlighted: The lack of appropriate and adequate services in the community for persons with mental health difficulties, the level of homelessness in the community, lack of adequate wraparound services for support and care post-release contributes a high level of reoffending and readmission. It is clear that attempts for rehabilitation of Richard OBrien have not worked, while efforts to address his alcohol dependency have also not been successful. However, one of his neighbours in Killarney is slow to be tough on him and has great time for his family. His family are good people and are very well-respected around here. Once you have addictions, you will beg, borrow or steal for it. There are not enough services there for these people and jail is a college for criminals. In one of his most recent court cases, in July 2023, the district court in Galway heard from his solicitor Conall MacCarthy, who outlined that his client came from a very respectable, hardworking Kerry family. But he said OBriens criminality flowed from his alcohol addiction and he got involved in crime to fuel his addiction. On that occasion, he was sleeping rough in Galway City and a more recent court case in Mallow last year heard he was living in a tent in a car park in Fermoy town when he carried out a theft at a hair salon. With his release date approaching, it remains to be seen if a new year can help him turn over a new leaf or whether he continues to be just another statistic in a system that has failed him. Convictions Timeline With years end came the latest release date for Richard OBrien, a man who has hundreds of convictions across the country and beyond. OBrien, whose most used address in court is 14 Ardshanavooley in Killarney, was serving sentences for offences in Cork and Kerry, including a five day sentence handed down in Tralee district court on October 16 for intoxication in a public place. The five-day sentence was the latest of 548 convictions picked up by 53-year-old OBrien since his first convictions in 1992, covering crimes including public order, burglary and theft. Among his very long list of convictions are: November 1992 At a sitting of Killorglin district court in Cahirciveen, he received his first convictions for common assault and malicious damage, at the age of 18 years old. May 1994 An appeal against a three-month imprisonment for malicious damage was struck out. The sentence had been imposed for his part in an incident during which bars, sticks and stones were used in an attack on a hotel in Ballybunion in April 1993. In a separate case, at Listowel district court in the same month, he was fined 50 for being drunk and disorderly and refusing to quit a licenced premises in Abbeyfeale, Co Limerick. He was also fined 100 for engaging in offensive conduct calculated to lead to a breach of the peace, and ws sentenced to three months detention for using threatening, abusive and insulting word, as well as six months detention for refusing to leave the vicinity of the licenced premises. He was given three further six month sentences for assaulting two gardai and a garda sergeant, and a three-month sentence for damaging a garda patrol car. January 1995 He was again fined 10 for driving an untaxed car at Deerpark, Killarney the previous August. March 1997 He was fined 50 for failing to display a tax disc in Fairhill, Killarney, the previous October. April 1995 He was fined 10 for driving an untaxed car in Killarney in October 1994. He was convicted and fined 85 for having no motor tax at Muckross Road, Killarney in September 1994. April 1996 He was given a 10-month jail sentence after being convicted of a late night assault in a Killarney take away. May 1996 The then-22-year-old was convicted of assaulting two gardai by headbutting them on April 21 and was given a 14 month prison sentence at Killarney district court. June 1996 He was given a three-month prison sentence at Killarney district court for using threatening and abusive language, with intent to provoke a breach of the peace, on April 7. The incident occurred outside a bar in Killarney town. September 1998 He was fined 60 for failing to comply with the direction of a garda at Plunkett Street, Killarney, the previous month. March 1999 During a hearing during which he admitted stealing 24 bottles of cider and a bottle of port, a court was told that he had failed to be admitted to treatment for alcoholism. He was fined 200. April 2000 He pleaded guilty to the assault of two men at Plunkett Street in Killarney on March 10. Among his 32 previous convictions were nine for assault, the court heard. Judge Humphrey Kelleher imposed a six-month suspended prison sentence on the defendant on each conviction and ordered him to pay 250 compensation to each injured party. May 2001 He was given a five-year sentence in relation to unlawful seizure of vehicles. November 2004 He was convicted of drunk driving and driving without insurance the previous June and fined a total of 1,500 at Killarney District Court. He was also disqualified from driving for two years. October 2005 Celebrating the birth of his child the previous month led to a conviction for a public order offence at Tralee district court, adding to his then 39 previous convictions. The then 31-year-old was fined 150. December 2005 He was fined 100 at Killarney district court for being drunk in a public place on Plunkett Street, Killarney on October 30. June 2007 He pleaded guilty to entering as a trespasser a house in Macroom, Co Cork, with intent to commit an offence or interfere with property, on the previous December 27. Macroom district court heard he had demanded alcohol from the occupants of the house. He held 51 previous convictions, including 10 for drunkeness and five for assault. The court was told that he had a severe drink problem but that he had completed an addiction programme in the months before the court case. He was given 30 days imprisonment, to run consecutive to a six-month sentence he was already serving at present. May 2008 Before Waterford district court, he was given a one-month sentence for the theft of a bottle of wine from a shop in Waterford city. The defence solicitor representing the then 35-year-old said he had a tragic past which included the deaths of six members of his family in a car accident. He was serving a two-month sentence at the time of the sentencing and the one-month sentence was to run concurrently with it, ordered Judge Elizabeth McGrath. November 2008 He was before Killorglin district court, charged with engaging in threatening, abusive and insulting behaviour on the middle day of the Puck Fair in August. The court was told he had 77 previous convictions. He was convicted and sentenced to four months jail, suspended on condition of good behaviour for a period of two years. He was also fined 250. January 2009 He was sentenced to five months in prison and given a 10-year driving ban for drink driving. March 2009 He was sentenced to six months in prison for burglary in Youghal. October 2010 A fine of 250 was handed down after he was convicted of being in possession of an illegal drug when searched at Bandon garda station six months earlier. Bandon district court was told he had 117 previous convictions at that point. July 2011 He was convicted and fined 250 for being intoxicated in a public place at Plunkett Street, Killarney, the previous January, after a guilty plea was entered by his solicitor, Padraig OConnell. The court was told that OBrien was not in court because he was presently being dried out. February 2012 He was convicted in Portlaoise for public order. January 2013 He was given a four month suspended sentence for three theft convictions in Galway. March 2013 He was convicted of being drunk in public and fined 150 at Killarney district court, in relation to an incident at Fairhill, Killarney the previous October. June 2013 He was convicted for shoplifting in London. January 2014 He received a conviction for defamation of an officer during or in connection with lawful performance of his office in the Midden Nederland court in the Netherlands. January 2014 He was sentenced to seven months in prison for a sexual assault in Cork city. Sept, Oct, Nov and Dec 2014 Convicted on public order charges in Kilkenny, Waterford and Wexford. Jan-Jun 2015 Received convictions in Kerry, Cork city, and Athlone for public order. June 2015 Conviction for theft in Galway. February 2017 Convicted at North west London Magistrates Court for assault of a police constable and given a conditional discharge of 12 months. Between then and May 2017, he also got convictions for thet. and being drunk and disorderly in the UK. 2018 / 2019 Several public order incidents in Cork and Kerry. 2020 Convicted of offences in Ballyshannon, Co Donegal; Galway, and Killarney on theft and public order offences. 2021 Convictions in the Criminal Courts of Justice in Dublin, Waterford, Kerry and Cork for offences including public order. June 2022 Described in press reports as a native of Killarney with no fixed abode, he was sentenced to three-and-a-half years in prison, with the final 18 months suspended, at Galway Circuit Criminal Court after he pleaded guilty to his role in a burglary at a house in Galway city on August 2021. At the time of the sentencing, he was serving an eight-month sentence due to shortly expire. The court was told that he was on a waiting list to see a counsellor for his alcohol addiction while in prison. November 2022 He was fined 250 for being intoxicated in Killarney the previous July. At the hearing, his solicitor, Padraig OConnell, said his number of convictions was a record for Kerry. December 2022 He was given a five-month sentence for theft, at a sitting of Killarney district court. July 2024 He pleaded guilty to two more public order charges at Cork District Court, admitting to having been drunk and a danger and engaging in threatening behaviour outside Gallaghers pub on MacCurtain Street in Cork city on June 29. The court heard he already had 342 convictions for being so intoxicated that he was a danger to himself or others and 56 for engaging in threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour likely to lead to a breach of the peace. On hearing that he had a total of 544 previous convictions, Judge Mary Dorgan said on hearing this: That must be a record. Residents in Sydney's Inner West have long been concerned about the state of the trees in the area. Now, one man is without a car after a large gum tree fell and smashed it. A frustrated resident is battling it out with council after a large gum tree fell and smashed his car parked outside his home. A tree he claims council inspected and deemed healthy, and not at risk of falling. The wild scene came after a huge storm ravaged Sydney's Inner West area a few days after Christmas, bringing down trees and powerlines. And while no one appeared to be injured, retiree Darryl Brown fears his car is now a costly "write-off". Residents have long expressed concern over the state of trees in the area, many of which are mature Kaffir Plum and gum trees which line the streets and parks. Last year, council told Yahoo News Australia an audit would be done on all trees in the area. But the latest incident has left some locals fuming. Photos provided to A Current Affair show the 68-year-old's brushed gold sedan buried underneath the humongous tree. Unfortunately for him, it's the second time it's happened in the same area, with the first occurring in 2015. For it to happen again, Darryl said "it hurts a bit". ADVERTISEMENT Darryl claims council brushed off the issue and accepted no fault. In correspondence received by the resident council said, it "can only be held responsible if it was aware of a situation and failed to take timely and appropriate action to remedy the hazard". But the 68-year-old claims he alerted council of the tree not once but twice, fearing it was at risk of falling. They attended the property but "assessed it as being low risk," he claimed. Darryl Brown claims he alerted council of the tree, fearing it would fall. But said they deemed it safe. Source: A Current Affiar Calls for council to 'inspect' all trees after resident complaints Now after significant damage caused to his car and fence, he wants council to take responsibility and cover the costs. In a statement issued to Yahoo News, the Inner West council confirmed they've been in touch with Darryl over the matter. Council has allegedly offered him "ongoing assistance with submitting a claim to our insurer". ADVERTISEMENT "We will also be inspecting all of the trees in Rangers Rd at a time that suits Mr Brown so he can point out any particular areas of concern," they said. The large Kaffir Plum tree came crashing down unexpectedly in a park in Sydney's Inner West last year, sparking concern among locals. Source: Facebook Residents concerned over state of trees in the area Speaking to Yahoo last year, Councillor Philippa Scott said many locals feared trees in the area were being neglected by council. Her comments came after "one of the biggest trees" she's ever seen toppled over at a park in Leichhardt. At the time, it was thought root rot was to blame. However, Scott said "our tree team is attentive to tree health". "They are trimmed and checked regularly and residents do also report unhealthy trees to us as well," she told Yahoo. ADVERTISEMENT Following the incident, a council spokesperson confirmed they would be undertaking a tree audit on all trees across the LGA. "This audit undertakes a risk assessment on the trees and recommends any works that may be required to address the risk," they said. The outcome of this audit is unknown. Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories. In an office overlooking Dublins main thoroughfare from OConnell Bridge, Rosemary Steen is setting out why she wanted to be the director of Irelands rental watchdog. A veteran of regulation and policy in the public and private sector, she acknowledges that she took the helm in September to lead the Residential Tenancies Board at a challenging time. Its why I wanted the job, she told the Irish Examiner. Ive been a dedicated public servant in a number of different sectors that have faced challenges. I joined Eirgrid at a very challenging time. I do believe the way I can give back is to go into these really difficult situations and maybe take jobs that other people dont want. 'It is their home...' What motivated me to go for this is I was actually in a restaurant listening to a gentleman who was moving to Australia, talking about why he was leaving Ireland. It was to do with a [rental] dispute that I felt could have been resolved through mediation but he was now leaving his home. I really felt that if we can get things in the rental sector operating correctly for people, people will spend time in that sector. They always have in Ireland, but we need to get that service operating in such a way that people can rent with confidence. It is their home. In the midst of a long-enduring housing crisis where many younger generations feel locked out of the prospect of home ownership, scrutiny will always be high on the watchdog tasked with regulating the sector. Challenges the RTB has faced And often in recent times, when the Residential Tenancies Board is making the news, its not been for good reasons. Its move to make landlords register annually in 2022 despite a positive step in ensuring robust data is collected and enforcement of the laws can be done more easily ran into problems at the first hurdle as landlords and agents reported problems registering themselves on the new system online. While it had planned to issue fines if tenancies were registered too late, it had to forego such penalties due to the unreliable system. The regulator almost doubled the number of agency staff it was using to meet the significantly high volume of calls it was receiving. The RTB only resumed charging late fees early in 2024. Its then director Niall Byrne was candid about the issues at Oireachtas committee hearings in front of TDs and senators in November 2022. He said: Coming into the role, I have discovered that our systems and processes are not working well and people are finding it difficult to deal with the RTB. Unfortunately, that is a fact. He said the issues the organisation faced were deep-seated and complex. Mr Byrne left his position after two years in the job in early 2024. Housing Minister Darragh OBrien did not seek his resignation, his spokesperson told the Irish Examiner at the time. RTB versus CSO data Other issues that arose related to the robustness of the RTB's data, or perceived lack thereof, after its own figures for how many private tenancies there were in Ireland clashed with the Central Statistics Offices figures from Census 2022. After both bodies put their heads together to try to figure out the discrepancy, the CSO concluded that around 25,000 more tenancies should likely be registered with the RTB than there are currently. Rent pressure zones Another issue to the fore is enforcement of the laws around rent pressure zones where rents can only rise a certain amount each year and other requirements of landlords. Speaking just after her first 100 days as director, Ms Steen was keen to stress that progress is being made at the RTB as the rental sector continues to grow in Ireland. One of the things that has happened is the RTB has grown, but it does need to grow more, she said. And part of what Im trying to do as the new director is assess the areas that are working well, look at how were delivering and innovate more. Residential Tenancies Board CEO Rosemary Steen. Picture: Gareth Chaney And part of what we committed to when I came in was that we would put the priority on disputes first. "I said, look, lets reprioritise cases and make sure the ones that are most serious in terms of rent withholding, illegal evictions, those cases to move them very much to the top of the queue. Swifter mediation She was able to point to statistics from the RTB to show that this has indeed improved in the last year, with adjudication, mediation, and tribunal hearings all significantly up in 2024 compared to 2023, with the average time for mediation cases down from 10 weeks to six. In particular, she was keen to stress mediation as a way for landlords and tenants to resolve disputes and said this was much quicker than other methods available. Its a very valuable resource for anybody whos having challenges, whether youre a landlord or tenant, to have a properly structured conversation, try and reach a conclusion, and not end up in a dispute, Ms Steen said. And so in the past, maybe mediation wasnt used as much, but as the new director, Ive really been clear with everybody that I want to drive mediation first approach. But, given the watchdogs remit, enforcement will also be key. And, at an Oireachtas committee hearing in the autumn, Ms Steen said that further legislative powers would be needed. 'Knocking on doors' Speaking alongside the director in their Dublin office, the RTBs head of investigations and sanctions, Emer Morrissey, said that, at the moment, it can only inspect a property once it has begun an investigation and after it was aware of an issue such as a tenancy not being registered. Residential Tenancies Board head of compliance & enforcement Emer Morrissey. Picture: Gareth Chaney At the moment, its based on sending out information to the landlords, and not so much around actually being able to go out, Ms Morrissey said. That is something we would really like to be able to do in the future, to go out where we suspect theres a tenancy in place and see if there is. And then we can use our powers to either prosecute or sanction. Ms Steen took up the point and said that its really important as a regulator that we do have the ability to knock on doors. Obviously wed use it judiciously, she said. Where we believe there has been a good citizen report, which is compelling, or a very serious situation where theres a major abuse underway, we do want the right, from time to time, to be able to knock on doors to validate if the situation warrants further investigation. Because the way that legislation is written, we can only do that once weve commenced an investigation, and in some of these situations, it doesnt give us adequate powers, in my view, as the new regulator coming in. Cases where the regulator has stepped in have yielded some hefty fines. Some recent cases Ms Morrissey outlined one case where a tenant was overcharged 18,000 and the landlord didnt repay the money, so they were fined the maximum of 15,000. Other cases that have made the headlines included landlord Marc Godart who was hit with fines of more than 25,000 for failing to register tenancies and knowingly giving false reasons to tenants for why they had to leave their apartments. Ms Morrissey said a recent campaign to identify breaches of rent pressure zone legislation will see them taking a more granular look at the data in the new year to identify bigger breaches of the laws. Working with Revenue Another area in which Ms Steen wants to see legislative change is the degree to which it can work with Revenue to conduct investigations. It will also give us access to more data and to share data with them around some of these rogue actors, you know, who are really causing a lot of damage in the rental sector, she said. And we really want the ability to use both further, if you like, knock on door powers, but also further cooperation with other government agencies to ensure that people are not abusing their responsibilities as landlords. She also identified issues they have around sometimes identifying the owner of a property, as some landlords are using multiple company structures to hide identities and move transfers of income between companies. Thats why the co-operation with Revenue is so important, so we can understand what type of companies are involved in these arrangements, she said, adding that the RTB would be actively pursuing landlords who are not complying. Online disputes platform A key aim for 2025 is the creation of a new online disputes platform that it hopes to launch in June which will allow people to lodge evidence, check what stage their dispute is at, and the outcome. Ms Steen said it will really transform that service, but this kind of transformation will need to be adequately resourced. I have to say the minister [Darragh OBrien] has been extremely supportive to me since I started, she said. We did get an 8% increase in budget allocation this year. So I dont want to underestimate what weve already been given, but the key here is that we have to invest in digital. Ms Steen said they will bring a digital roadmap for all this to Government when it is ready, and that should ensure more rapid turnaround in terms of investigations in future. On the landmark Housing Commission report, which made multiple recommendations for changing the rental sector in Ireland, Ms Steen said that policy was a matter for Government but her organisation stood ready to act on whatever policy direction that may take. She also said that, despite a widely-shared narrative that landlords are fleeing the sector en masse, their data shows that, while some are leaving, more are also joining which goes against this prevailing narrative. With annual registration, she said they can now stand over their data and said it is the truest picture of the situation. Thats not to say that individual people wont see individual apartments for sale or individual people leaving, but the question is, what are the statistics saying? And the last set of statistics are clearly saying that the number is up. 'Tough and clear' Ms Steen was also clear that, while they would be collaborative with stakeholders, she would be clear and tough in her role as a regulator too. We can communicate a certain amount, but there are some hard lines here, she said: We cant have people illegally evicting people or withholding rent indefinitely. "We have to step in and ensure the appropriate follow-through is applied and I wont hesitate to do that as the director. With over 230,000 registered tenancies in Ireland, and perhaps many thousands more not properly registered, the importance of a robust regulator that is protecting tenants rights cannot be overstated. Its a common experience for Generation Rent to share horror stories of their own rental woes. At the close of the interview, Ms Steen paused for a moment when asked if shed ever had a bad experience herself while in the rental sector. I would have had... challenges, she said. I think the good thing was my landlord kept communicating with me. In the end, I bought the apartment off him. He did try to ask me to leave but I was lucky that I was working at the time and I was able to pull together a deposit. I was very lucky. Ms Steen said she even secured a discount on buying the property given she had been a tenant of the landlord selling up. You do have to have a working relationship, she added: I would say that that relationship with the landlord is critical. Relationships, like in work or in life, do matter. So, if everybody can put a relationship to the fore of a rental agreement, it can end up with a good outcome for everybody. The worst thing is being able to see it, courtesy of technology that promises to find your device. The technology is like one of those microchips inserted in your cat so that if it is faithless and someone finds it somewhere it shouldnt be, they can have the chip read by a vet and get you contacted to come fetch your feline. Simple. Emotionally rewarding. The equivalent technology for iPads and other wandering devices may be simple, but it isnt, in my experience, emotionally rewarding. My devoted readers all three of them will be aware that 10 days ago, I left my iPad on a United Airlines flight from Florida to Newark, in preparation for flying home to Ireland. Having copped on to my idiocy three hours before my next flight, I got ticked off by a United lost property person for not checking that I had all my personal belongings before exiting the flight, according to the instructions, and went through all the formal retrieval processes before embarking on the flight to Dublin. A lifelong battle... This ushered in the latest instalment of my lifelong battle with Lost and Found. Lost Property departments know me well. I have always lost things. Its not a function of advancing age. Or perhaps I should say its not JUST a function of advanced age. In fact, it may be convincing evidence of how deeply-ingrained habits can withstand advancing years. Put it this way: When it comes to losing things, I am the same, as an old fart as I was as a kid. Only worse. My tracker thingy shows the location of my lost iPad, languishing in Newark, New Jersey (look, there it is!) but knowing its location is not going to hasten its return. I never, in my school years, had to rely on the dog eating my homework excuse, partly because we didnt have a dog but mainly because I lost the copybook on the way home. The recurring nightmare Later, as a young mother, my recurring maternity nightmare was that I had left my baby on a bus. This never actually happened, but a dream carries more emotional heft than boring reality, and in this dream, I left the newborn on a bus and consequently had to visit the then lost property section of the then CIE, where the surly man in charge told me the lost babies were over there. Over there signifying a roundy yoke like youd stick umbrellas in, except that all the slots were occupied by neatly-swaddled babies, who all looked the same, so the screaming-wake-me-please section of the nightmare was me realising I couldnt distinguish my particular baby from all the others, and could hardly take one at random, tempting though that was as a time-management option. Things have improved since then, in terms of the attitude of public transport staff. Thank you, Irish Rail guy Just four weeks ago, for example, I left a dress in the overhead rack of a train, and the lost & found guy in Heuston Station couldnt have been more courteous as he went to some trouble to see if the garment could be found. My missing garment did not show up but the man in charge of lost and found at Heuston Station in Dublin couldnt have been more courteous as he searched for it. Niall Carson/PA It couldnt. Although Ill check, next time Im there. You never know, although, to be honest, the find rate in my history of losing things isnt stellar. Losing things has cost me a fortune. I have something in common with those American graduates who are still paying back student loans in their 70s. Me, Im working just to pay for losing stuff. Diamonds are forev... Whoops Until the iPad, the most expensive thing I ever lost was the diamond eternity ring my late husband brought to the maternity hospital the day after our son was born. That one, I managed to lose within 24 hours, so that when said husband arrived to take the two of us home, he found me face-swollen, eyes half closed from crying, and was thereby allowed to prove himself a) the best in the world, and b) the master of generous quotations when he said: Tess, I had the pleasure of giving it to you, and you had the pleasure of receiving it. Thats enough lets go home. Since then, I have lost all the usual things, including my car, most notably the latter in the Mater car park, which is designed for failure and forced exercise as you search one level after another, muttering a promise that you will never, as long as you live, park in this benighted site again. She's lost remote control again Ive lost my passport (in Geneva), boarding passes, credit cards, remote controls, shoes, skirts, keys, receipts, and when someone broke into a previous home of mine my wallet. Remote controls, passports, keys, credit cards, shoes, skirts I've lost them all. Anything with your name and contact points on it provokes the kindness of strangers so that before I had even frozen my bank card after the home invasion, someone contacted me to say theyd found my wallet in a hedge and would I like them to drop it to me. But still... Still, the iPad may be the most challenging. I know that United Airlines has almost 500 flights going into Newark every day and if just one idiot like me leaves some personal belonging behind them, thats 500 items. Which is why Uniteds lost property form seeks to get every possible identifier of the lost item from you, as my American guardian angel, Suzi, found out when she rang them. A helpful call centre guy told her that anything distinguishing her (my) item from the totality of abandoned possessions would allow the person who, now and then, actually walks through the lost property building to notice, even register the iPad. Suzi told them about the Sink the Rich sticker on the top of my iPad. She didnt tell him the sticker came with a book by Bernie Sanders. The lost property guy on the phone might be Maga, and you dont want to disincentivise someone who might contribute to your rescue. Meanwhile, back in Ireland... Meanwhile, back in Ireland, Aoife, my office guardian angel, decided my iPad was not going to come back, disinterred an old one, stuck a new keyboard on it, and assumed I would be fine. Except that I have about 300 passwords and trying to set up any single platform when you dont know the right one is the most soul-destroying activity. Now, I know that every item left behind on a flight at least has sentimental value (other than a KitKat, and even the loss of one of those might create a lump in the throat). And I know that the office will have proper insurance on the iPad, which was at least six years old and had seen some rough handling. No financial loss, then. If anyone with United Airlines sees this, Terry Prone's Apple iPad is stuck in Newark, New Jersey... Please. Picture: Noel Campion But United Airlines, are you listening? thats not the point. The point is that I have two nearly completed books in manuscript form on that iPad. Jonathan Williams, my wonderful literary agent, rang me three days ago to ask about progress on the first. I didnt actually lie to him, but I didnt tell the full truth, either. That is the sad tale of a manuscript locked into a device the location of which we can all see, but not rescue. The owner of a well-known Cork city pub has been unsuccessful in his appeal to An Bord Pleanala to retain a large awning outside his premises. Cork City Council ruled in August last year that the large awning outside the Shelbourne Bar on MacCurtain Street adversely affected the character of the heritage buildings, the setting of a protected theatre building, and the special character of the historic street. The bar, located in the MacCurtain St Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) and right next to The Everyman Theatre, a protected structure, comprises two two-bay three-storey 19th-century buildings numbers 16 and 17 both of which retain much of their historic character, and both of which are recorded on the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage. A large non-retractable awning, cantilevered from the first floor, was attached to the front of the bar in November 2023 to replace a smaller structure which was installed during the pandemic. The bar's awning extends approximately 3.4 metres from the front wall over the adjoining footpath and towards the public road edge and measures 10.9 metres in length. In the Inspector's report, An Bord Pleanala said it was a "substantial structure" with an area of approximately 37 sq m. Following the decision by Cork City Council, owner of the Shelbourne, Philip Gillivan confirmed that he would be appealing the refusal to An Bord Pleanala and would await the outcome of that decision. However, An Bord Plenala has also refused permission to Mr Gillivan, ruling in favour of the Council, citing the awning's "excessive scale and extent," "inappropriate structural design" and "unsympathetic form and materials." In its decision, the board said the site of the Shelbourne Bar is at a location which requires "that new developments are appropriate to the scale of the area and reinforce the area's character." "It is considered that the awning to be retained, by reason of its excessive scale and extent, inappropriate structural design including cantilevered supports, and unsympathetic form and materials, constitutes a discordant, strident and obtrusive feature on the streetscape which materially and adversely effects the architectural symmetry, proportions, character and integrity of the subject property, the setting of adjoining period properties and which is seriously injurious to the special character of the MacCurtain Street ACA." The board added that the site is a vibrant commercial streetscape, where established canopies are either traditional, retractable and modest, or architectural character features. "Accordingly, it is considered that to permit retention of the awning would, therefore, be contrary to the qualitative placemaking standards of the Cork City Development Plan and the proper planning and sustainable development of the area. Mr Gillivan told the Irish Examiner he was disappointed by the decision. "I am disappointed to learn that An Bord Pleanala has refused permission for retention of the awning. That said I will start the process of removing it and will engage with Cork City Council in the coming days." North Korea on Monday fired at least one ballistic missile into its eastern seas, South Koreas military said, extending its heightened weapons testing activities into 2025 weeks before Donald Trump returns as US president. The Souths Joint Chiefs of Staff on Monday did not immediately confirm how many missiles were fired or how far they flew. The launch event came as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was visiting Seoul for talks with South Korean allies over the North Korean nuclear threat and other issues. Mr Blinkens visit comes amid political turmoil in South Korea following President Yoon Suk Yeols short-lived martial law decree and subsequent impeachment by parliament last month, which experts say puts the country at a disadvantage in getting a steady footing with Mr Trump ahead of his return to the White House. President-elect Donald Trump speaks during a news conference at Mar-a-Lago (AP/Evan Vucci) In a year-end political conference, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un vowed to implement the toughest anti-US policy and criticised the Biden administrations efforts to strengthen security cooperation with Seoul and Tokyo, which he described as a nuclear military bloc for aggression. North Korean state media did not specify Mr Kims policy plans or mention any specific comments about Mr Trump. During his first term, Mr Trump met Mr Kim three times for talks on the Norths nuclear program. Many experts, however, say a quick resumption of Kim-Trump summitry is unlikely as Mr Trump would first focus on conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. North Koreas support for Russias war against Ukraine also poses a challenge to efforts to revive diplomacy, experts say. Frances former president Nicolas Sarkozy and 11 co-defendants have gone on trial over the alleged illegal financing of his 2007 presidential campaign by the government of then-Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi. Sarkozy, who served as president from 2007 to 2012, did not speak to the press as he arrived at court. He has denied any wrongdoing. Sarkozy faces charges of passive corruption, illegal campaign financing, concealment of embezzlement of public funds and criminal association, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. The trial is scheduled to run until April 10. Sarkozy has denied any wrongdoing (AP) The trial involves 11 other defendants, including three former ministers. Franco-Lebanese businessman Ziad Takieddine, accused of having played the role of intermediary, has fled to Lebanon and is not expected to appear at the Paris court. Sarkozy, 69, is looking forward to the hearings with determination, his lawyer Christophe Ingrain said in a statement. There is no Libyan financing of the campaign, the statement said. We want to believe the court will have the courage to examine the facts objectively, without being guided by the nebulous theory that poisoned the investigation. The case emerged in March 2011, when a Libyan news agency reported that the Gaddafi government had financed Sarkozys 2007 campaign. In an interview, Gaddafi himself said: Its thanks to us that he reached the presidency. We provided him with the funds that allowed him to win. Sarkozy, who had welcomed Gaddafi to Paris with great honours in 2007, became one of the first Western leaders to push for a military intervention in Libya in March 2011, when Arab Spring pro-democracy protests swept the Arab world. Gaddafi was killed by opposition fighters in October that same year, ending his four-decade rule of the North African country. Sarkozy and Gaddafi met in France in 2007 (AP) The next year, French online news site Mediapart published a document said to be a note from the Libyan secret services, mentioning Gaddafis agreement to provide Sarkozys campaign with 50 million euro (41 million) in financing. Sarkozy strongly rejected the accusations, calling the document a blatant fake and filing complaints for forgery, concealment and spreading false news. However, French investigative magistrates eventually said in 2016 the document has all the characteristics of an authentic one, although there is no definitive evidence that such a transaction took place. The official cost for Sarkozys 2007 campaign was 20 million euro (around 16.6 million). French investigators scrutinised numerous trips to Libya made by people close to Sarkozy, then the interior minister, between 2005 and 2007, including his chief of staff Claude Gueant. They also noted dozens of meetings between Gueant and Takieddine, a key player in major French military contracts abroad. The investigation gained traction when Takieddine told Mediapart in 2016 that he had delivered three suitcases from Libya containing millions in cash to the French Interior Ministry. The case is the most serious one Sarkozy has faced (AP) However, Takieddinne reversed his statement four years later. Since then, a separate investigation has been launched into alleged witness tampering as magistrates suspect an attempt to pressure Takieddine in order to clear Sarkozy. Sarkozy and his wife, former supermodel Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, were given preliminary charges as financial prosecutors said the former president is suspected of benefiting from corruptly influencing Takieddine. Sarkozy has been convicted in two other scandals but the Libyan case appears as the one most likely to significantly affect his legacy. Frances highest court, the Court of Cassation, last month upheld a conviction against Sarkozy of corruption and influence peddling while he was the head of state. He was sentenced to one year in house arrest with an electronic bracelet. The case was revealed as investigative judges were listening to wiretapped phone conversations during the Libya inquiry. In February last year, an appeals court in Paris found Sarkozy guilty of illegal campaign financing in his failed 2012 re-election bid. French President Emmanuel Macron has extended an olive branch to US President-elect Donald Trump, declaring that France is a solid ally as he outlined his vision for global diplomacy in 2025 during his New Years address to French ambassadors. Mr Macron said at the Elysee Palace: Donald Trump knows that he has a solid ally in France, an ally he does not underestimate, one who believes in Europe and carries a lucid ambition for the transatlantic relationship. The President emphasised Frances commitment to fostering cooperation while urging European nations to fortify their unity and resilience. If we decide to be weak and defeatist, there is little chance we will be respected by the United States under President Trump, he warned. Mr Macrons speech, delivered against a backdrop of geopolitical turmoil, laid out Frances foreign policy priorities, spanning the Ukraine war, European defence, and the Middle East. Mr Macron wared that Mr Trump would win nothing if Vladimir Putin should triumph in Ukraine (AP) Even as Mr Macron extended an olive branch to Mr Trump, he delivered pointed criticism of tech mogul Elon Musk, a known Trump ally, for promoting what he described as a new reactionary international movement through his social media platform, X. Without naming Mr Musk directly, Mr Macron referenced his alleged support for Germanys far-right AfD party and his increasing interference in European elections. Who could have imagined, 10 years ago, that the owner of one of the worlds largest social networks would intervene directly in elections, including in Germany? Mr Macron said. He warned of the risks posed by unchecked power in the hands of tech billionaires and the destabilising impact they could have on democratic institutions. Mr Macron framed Mr Musks influence as a challenge to Europes democratic values, reinforcing the need for European unity and resilience against external disruptions. Addressing the grinding war in Ukraine, Mr Macron stressed the need for realistic discussions on territorial questions, adding, such negotiations can only be conducted by Ukrainians themselves. He called on the United States to help change the nature of the situation and convince Russia to come to the negotiating table, while underlining Europes pivotal role. The Europeans will have to construct security guarantees for Ukraine, which will be primarily their responsibility, he said. Mr Macron indirectly criticised Elon Musk (AP) Mr Macron countered Mr Trumps campaign pledge for an express settlement, warning: There is no quick and easy solution in Ukraine. He also highlighted the stakes for the United States, stating: The new American President himself knows the United States has no chance of winning anything if Ukraine loses. The French leader further cautioned against compromise due to fatigue. The credibility of the West will be shattered if we compromise because of fatigue, he asserted, adding that a capitulation of Ukraine would be catastrophic not just for Europe, but for US credibility as well. Mr Macron also addressed a range of pressing international issues, identifying Iran as the principal strategic and security challenge in the Middle East. He pointed to Tehrans accelerated nuclear programme as a looming global threat, warning that the world is perilously close to the breaking point. On Syria, he reiterated Frances long-term commitment to supporting a democratic transition, pledging to remain faithful to Kurdish fighters battling terrorism. The fight against terrorism must remain central to our priorities, he said, reaffirming Frances backing for allies like the Kurds while advocating for a sovereign, pluralistic Syria. Mr Macrons address comes in a time of widespread uncertainty across the globe (AP) In a sharp critique of Europes dependence on US defence technology, Mr Macron urged European nations to bolster their industrial capabilities. If we depend on the American industrial base for our security, we will face strategic dilemmas that are both cruel and culpable, he warned. Mr Macron also addressed the EU-Mercosur trade deal, signalling Frances intent to push for coherent commitments. The proposed agreement, which aims to reduce tariffs and boost trade between the European Union and South American countries, has been criticised for its potential environmental and agricultural impacts. The mass is not said. We will continue to defend the coherence of our commitments, the President stated. Mr Macrons remarks underlined Frances delicate balancing act on the global stage collaborating with old allies while maintaining European sovereignty. Neil the Seal has attracted the attention of millions but authorities have cracked down on those interacting with the rare creature. Jason Howlett has spent the past few years updating millions on the antics of Neil the Seal. Source: TikTok Authorities have issued a stark warning to the public after a tradie who became "very fond" of a famous seal copped a $1,200 fine for allegedly disturbing him. Local traffic controller Jason Howlett was accused of being on reserve land, disturbing the endangered southern elephant affectionately named Neil the Seal and littering by representatives of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas) following an incident on November 30. Howlett visited an undisclosed Tasmanian beach where Neil the Seal had settled before posting about the encounter online to a popular social media page dedicated to the gentle giant. Hewlett denies violating any rules and intends to fight the fine. The 700kg juvenile became something of a tourist attraction after he was captured causing chaos around the island. Adorable scenes of Neil lounging in a popular park, lying across a road and visiting someone's home scored him millions of fans worldwide with Howlett behind a popular social media page dedicated to the gentle giant. ADVERTISEMENT But a NRE Tasmania spokesperson told Yahoo that despite "good intentions" from members of the public, they "should not intervene". "Members of the public should follow instructions of staff and signage at all times," they told Yahoo News Australia. The $1212 infringement notice was issued for being on reserve land and disturbing wildlife as well as littering. Source: Tiktok Famous seal's location kept secret after drawing crowds Tasmanian authorities began keeping Neils location a secret after the celebrity seal became a TikTok sensation in 2023, drawing curious onlookers. Howlett, who first interacted with Neil when he "invaded" a worksite told how he became "very fond" of the seal. His social media account has kept scores of fans updated on Neil's antics when he comes to land, claims that he has "never" disclosed the seal's location of Neil and he has "nothing but respect for Neil's boundaries." ADVERTISEMENT The littering in question, Hewlett claims, refers to a traffic cone he gave the seal to "play with". Authorities told Yahoo that infringements are issued in response to public concerns. "Infringements can be issued for a deliberate act contrary to regulations or where educational avenues have been exhausted," a spokesperson added. Neil the Seal was just a little pup in 2020, and he's grown larger every year. Source: NRE Tas How Neil the Seal's behaviour could change as he grows Wildlife biologist Sam Thalmann previously told Yahoo that Neil could one day weigh as much as 3,700kg when he reaches full maturity. As a four-year-old juvenile, he is exhibiting "classic" teenage behaviours like interacting with objects and testing his strength. ADVERTISEMENT It's expected that he will continue to visit Tasmania, but because he will become larger every year, and continue to be wild, he will pose more of a danger, though he isnt likely to become outwardly aggressive to people. We dont envisage that his behaviour will noticeably change. Hes quite opportunistic. He interacts with things he comes across, Thalmann said. But as he gets larger, instead of interacting with traffic cones, he might like the look of small hatchbacks and SUVs. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. Three large schools of fish converged into one giant bait ball. Source: Lee Bollom/Batuti Photos An epic natural event was documented off one of Australias most popular beaches over the weekend. Mesmerising images show dark clusters of millions of fish contrasting against the crystal blue waters. Photographer Lee Bollom watched as three separate schools swam into shallow waters at Sydneys Manly Beach before they merged into one mega-bait ball. It was drifting up and down the beach which was cool, he told Yahoo News. Bollom was looking out the window of his ninth-floor apartment when he first noticed the fish swamping the beach just before 1 pm on Sunday. Describing the spectacle as amazing he added, I just loved the magic of it to have it so close to your doorstep is pretty cool. ADVERTISEMENT Because smaller fish are known to attract large predators, swimmers and surfers were ordered to vacate the waters for several hours as temperatures soared above 30 degrees. Concerned about the safety of beachgoers, Bollom immediately began using his drone to scan the coastline for sharks. There were smaller fish being eaten by bigger fish, but I didnt see any sharks. They could have been there, because bait balls are always the first warning sharks could turn up, he said. Swimmers were ordered out of the water at Manly Beach on Sunday. Source: Lee Bollom/Batuti Photos Why are bait balls dangerous for swimmers? Shark bites are rare in waters around Sydney, and by taking simple precautions beachgoers can ensure this continues. Humane Society International marine biologist Lawrence Chlebeck explained to Yahoo News it's important to be educated about environmental factors that attract predators. ADVERTISEMENT We do know that if a bait ball is in the area, if birds are feeding, if dolphins are jumping, if there's action on top of the water, those things attract sharks, he said. Bait balls of this immense size are rarely seen at Manly Beach. Source: Lee Bollom/Batuti Photos Lifeguards were seen patrolling Manly Beach after the bait balls were sighted. Source: Lee Bollom/Batuti Photos Chlebeck thinks it's important to remember that sharks arent looking for people to bite, as theyre not a natural prey species. They're looking for bait balls close to shore. If you think about the open ocean, it's hard to herd any school of fish, but if they're close to the coastline its a prime feeding opportunity for sharks, dolphins and diving birds, he said. ADVERTISEMENT The predators that feed on these fish are going to be active, they're going to be excited, and they're going to be looking for a feed. So its smartest if we just stay out of the way. Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories. Investigators in South Korea seeking to arrest suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol have requested an extension for the arrest warrant, which is set to expire later today. The beleaguered leader remains confined in his residence, protected by loyal security personnel. The former star prosecutor has defiantly rebuffed questioning on three occasions, while a failed arrest attempt saw hundreds of his protective guards impede investigators trying to apprehend him over a controversial martial law decree issued last month. Officials from the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) indicated they will request an extension to the warrant, set to expire at 3 PM Irish time today. They mentioned that they sought police assistance in detaining Yoon due to the challenges investigators faced, and will coordinate with law enforcement regarding the timing of the warrant extension. Police have yet to respond to this request. Last week, a tense standoff lasting several hours with numerous security personnel forced investigators to reconsider their approach due to security concerns. Mr. Yoon faces potential prison time or, in the worst-case scenario, the death penalty if arrested, following his brief suspension of civilian rule that plunged South Korea into a significant political crisis. Nevertheless, he and his supporters remain resolute. The Presidential Security Service will protect the President, and we will safeguard the Presidential Security Service till midnight, stated Kim Soo-yong, 62, a protest organizer. If they secure another warrant, we will come again. Numerous lawmakers from President Yoons People Power Party gathered outside his presidential residence early in the morning, as police moved to block roads in anticipation of further protests. Dozens of supporters and opponents of Mr. Yoon braved sub-zero temperatures the previous day, having camped out overnight. Ive been here longer than the CIO now. It doesnt make sense why they cant act. They need to arrest him immediately, remarked Kim Ah-young, in her 30s and an anti-Yoon protest organizer. Supporters of Yoon Suk Yeol rallied near his residence in Seoul. The original warrant was issued because Mr. Yoon has declined to respond to questioning regarding his martial law decree. His legal team has continuously asserted that the warrant is unlawful and illegal, and has committed to pursuing further legal action against it. The head of Mr. Yoons presidential security service has also stated that he would not permit investigators to arrest the suspended president. Regardless of the outcome, South Koreas vibrant democracy will venture into unprecedented territoryeither its sitting president will face arrest, or he will have successfully evaded court-ordered detention. As the clock ticks down on the arrest warrant, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Seoul for discussions with various government officials, including acting president Choi Sang-mok, who also serves as finance minister. Washingtons top diplomat is not scheduled to meet with Mr. Yoon but will join Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul for a press conference, with Cho not facing impeachment threats. South Koreas Constitutional Court has scheduled 14 January for the commencement of Mr. Yoons impeachment trial, which will proceed in his absence if he fails to attend. A prosecutors report concerning his former defense minister, obtained by AFP, indicated that Mr. Yoon disregarded objections from key cabinet ministers prior to his unsuccessful martial law attempt, an aspect the court may consider. The report noted that the then-prime minister, foreign minister, and finance minister all expressed concerns regarding the potential economic and diplomatic consequences during a cabinet meeting on the night of the decision. The opposition Democratic Party has also called for the disbandment of the security service protecting Yoon. However, Mr. Yoons lawyers have vowed to mount their own legal challenge. His legal representatives announced plans to file an additional complaint against the head of the CIO responsible for the arrest attempt. The CIO is an independent body established in January 2021 to investigate high-ranking officials, including the president and their family members, though it lacks the power to prosecute a sitting president. Per legal stipulations, the CIO is obligated to refer the case to the prosecutors office for any actions, including an indictment, once the questioning concludes. The presidents legal team intends to hold accountable those who committed illegal acts under the law, stated lawyer Yoon Kab-keun. The Constitutional Court of South Korea has a period of up to 180 days to decide whether to remove Mr. Yoon from office or reinstate his powers. Notably, former presidents Roh Moo-hyun and Park Geun-hye never appeared for their impeachment trials. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni traveled to Florida to meet with President-elect Donald Trump yesterday, as the prominent European leader aimed to strengthen relations with Mr. Trump ahead of his inauguration set for 20 January. Upon her arrival at Mr. Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort, Ms. Meloni was greeted with applause following Mr. Trumps introduction, as captured in videos posted on social media by reporters and others. This visit takes place just days before her scheduled meeting with US President Joe Biden during her trip to Rome next week. Mr. Trump emerged victorious against Democrat Kamala Harris in the November election and is preparing for his return to the White House. Ms. Melonis office has chosen not to comment on the reports. Her conservative credentials and the stability of the right-wing coalition she leads in Italy make her a potentially strong ally for Mr. Trump. Additionally, she has developed a close rapport with billionaire tech CEO Elon Musk, a staunch Trump ally who contributed over a quarter-billion dollars to support his election campaign. This is very exciting. Im here with a fantastic woman, the prime minister of Italy, Mr. Trump expressed to the Mar-a-Lago audience, as reported by a media pool. Shes really taken Europe by storm. Following their greetings, Mr. Trump and Ms. Meloni watched a documentary that investigates the criminal probes and legal challenges faced by John Eastman, a former Trump attorney who played a pivotal role in Mr. Trumps failed attempts to contest his 2020 election defeat. Among the significant challenges facing Ms. Meloni is the recent arrest of Italian journalist Cecilia Sala in Iran on 19 December. Ms. Salas detention occurred three days after Iranian businessman Mohammad Abedini was apprehended at Milans Malpensa airport under a US warrant for allegedly supplying drone components implicated in a 2023 assault that claimed the lives of three American service members in Jordan. Iran has denied any involvement in the attack. On Friday, Irans foreign ministry summoned Italys ambassador in response to Mr. Abedinis detention, according to Iranian state media reports. Ms. Meloni is the latest in a series of foreign leaders to visit Mr. Trump in Florida since the 5 November election. He has also hosted Argentinian President Javier Milei, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. New York has introduced a contentious initiative to impose charges on drivers entering specific areas of the city, marking a first in the United States, which could put local authorities at odds with US president-elect Donald Trump. In November, State Governor Kathy Hochul announced that drivers accessing regions of Manhattan south of Central Park would incur a daytime toll of $9 (8.73) starting at midnight. This initiative brings back a prior proposal that featured a $15 base fee, which she had suspended in June, citing too many unintended consequences for New Yorkers. Republican leaders have urged Mr. Trump, a native of New York who has pledged to abolish the scheme if elected, to step in immediately and halt it. A judge rejected a last-minute attempt by officials from neighboring New Jersey to block the initiative, arguing its environmental effects on adjacent areas. Adjacent regions to New York City have contended that such a charge would negatively impact their businesses. This judicial rejection cleared the way for the initiative, which had encountered other legal obstacles, underscoring the challenges of charging drivers in a nation that prioritizes car travel. The plan aims to alleviate congestion and support funding for the New York subway system. Ms. Hochul indicated it was reinstated after an analysis confirmed its efficacy at a reduced fee. Several elected officials from New York City boroughs and a prominent trade group representing haulers have opposed the project. Taxi driver associations also registered their dissent. While their membersencompassing pre-booked ride-hail drivers and operators of the citys signature yellow cabswill not bear the fee themselves, affected passengers will face a surcharge. Approximately 700,000 vehicles enter the area daily, and traffic congestion causes cars to move at an average speed of just 11 km/h, with even slower speeds in certain areas, according to officials. There are various exemptions to the base fee, including a discount plan for low-income drivers. Additionally, discounts are available for drivers who enter the tolling zone more than ten times a month. While similar tolling programs for drivers have been in place for years in other major cities such as London and Stockholm, municipalities across the US will be closely observing the effects of the New York scheme on both traffic patterns and revenue generation. Istanbul (Special to Informed Comment; Feature) Following the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assads regime, Turkiye aims to capitalize on the Syrian oppositions victory to solidify its position as a key regional player. For over a decade, Turkiye has been a staunch supporter of the Syrian opposition, providing military aid, diplomatic support, and serving as a key logistical hub for rebel forces. However, this commitment has come at a significant cost to Ankara. The influx of Syrian refugees has strained Turkiyes economy and demographics, while the prolonged conflict has also led to diplomatic tensions between Turkiye and the US, UAE, Russia, and Iran. The civil war has further exposed Turkiye to security threats, including cross-border attacks and the rise of extremist groups, which led Ankara to launch multiple military operations in northern Syria to establish a safe zone along the Syrian border. Despite these challenges, Ankara now sees an opportunity to shape Syrias future in line with its strategic interests, aiming to leverage the investments and sacrifices made over the course of the 13-year conflict. Fall of Assad and the Umayyad Mosque as a symbol Before the rebel offensive in late 2024, Assads regime controlled key parts of Syria, including major cities such as Damascus, Aleppo, Homs, and Hama. Many believed Assad had won the civil war, with rebel groups mostly confined to the north. Recognizing Assads strengthened position, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan began efforts to normalize relations between Ankara and Damascus. However, Assad consistently demanded the withdrawal of Turkish forces from northwest Syria as a condition for any diplomatic progress, a demand that Ankara refused to meet. This diplomatic impasse persisted until late 2024, when a major rebel offensive led to the swift collapse of Assads regime. Just four days after the fall of Damascus, the head of the Turkish National Intelligence Organization (MIT), Ibrahim Kaln, visited Damascus and prayed at the Umayyad Mosque. Following Kalns visit, Turkiye reopened its embassy in Syria for the first time in 12 years. On December 22, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with Syrias new de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa (previously known by his nom de guerre Abu Mohammed al-Jolani) in Damascus. Fidan was the first foreign minister to visit Damascus since Assads fall. In September 2012, Erdogan claimed that he would soon pray at the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, implicitly suggesting that Assads regime would be overthrown and that a new, Sunni-dominated leadership would emerge in Syria. For years, the phrase praying at the Umayyad Mosque had been adopted by the Turkish opposition as a critique of Erdogans foreign policy on Syria, suggesting that the anti-Assad policies of Erdogan have failed. This is why Kalns visit to the Umayyad Mosque was seen as a direct reference to Erdogans 2012 speech. Photo of Damascus by Juma Mulhem at Pexels.com Refugees, Economy, and Reconstruction Turkiyes main goals in Syria include facilitating the return of refugees, securing its southern borders, countering Kurdish autonomy movements, and maximizing its influence over Syrias new government. Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced that 35,114 Syrians have returned since the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad, with expectations that the number of returns could increase further after the school semester ends. In addition to these security and humanitarian goals, Turkiye also seeks to play a significant role in Syrias reconstruction. Following Assads overthrow, shares of Turkish construction and cement companies surged, driven by expectations that they would benefit from the anticipated rebuilding efforts. Several Turkish media outlets referenced a UN report estimating that Syrias reconstruction would require at least $400 billion, which many pro-government sources view as a major economic opportunity for Turkiye. Turkiye has already outlined plans to contribute to Syrias reconstruction, including initiatives in infrastructure. Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu announced an action plan focusing on improving Syrias transportation network, with particular attention to Aleppo and Damascus airports, the Hejaz Railway, and the M4 and M5 highways. Additionally, Uraloglu stated that Turkiye aims to negotiate a maritime demarcation agreement once a permanent government is established in Syria. In terms of energy cooperation, Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar emphasized the importance of Turkiyes partnership with Syria, including supplying electricity and collaborating on oil and gas projects. He also described the revival of the Qatar-Turkiye-Europe natural gas pipeline as an extraordinary opportunity. Obstacles Pro-government media, nationalist groups, and neo-Ottomanist social media accounts in Turkiye celebrate Syrias new Sunni-dominated leadership as a Turkish expansionist victory, citing examples such as speculation about Turkish potentially becoming an official language in Syria. This sentiment is echoed by pro-government figures like Cem Kucuk, a staunchly nationalist pundit, who uses Turkish nationalist and neo-Ottoman rhetoric to express his views on Syria and the broader region. He stated: Would it be bad if we had Aleppo? Would it be bad if we had Mecca and Medina? Would it be bad if we had Jerusalem? 82 Jerusalem, 83 Damascus, 84 Mecca, 85 Medina, 86 Cairo. His mention of numbers assigned to cities refers to Turkiyes license plate system, where each of the 81 provinces has an assigned number. By referring to 82 and beyond, he makes an irredentist statement about Turkiye annexing new provinces or territories. While many media outlets view post-Assad Syria as falling within Turkiyes sphere of influence, the reality is more complex. To increase its influence on the new Syrian government and benefit from Syrias reconstruction, Turkiye first needs a stable, pro-Turkiye regime in place. The Syrian National Army (SNA) is widely recognized as a proxy force for Turkiye, relying heavily on Turkish support for funding, equipment, and strategic direction. In contrast, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), formerly linked to al-Qaeda, operates with greater autonomy compared to the SNA. Although Turkiye has officially designated HTS as a terrorist organization, recent developments suggest a more nuanced relationship. Reports indicate that Turkish intelligence has engaged with HTS, and US President-elect Donald Trump also acknowledged that Turkiyes support helped HTS topple Assads regime. However, its important to note that HTS is not directly controlled by Turkiye. So far, Turkiyes alliances with both the SNA and HTS have significantly shaped its role in Syria. However, once the dust settles, Turkiye will need to carefully navigate the complexities of these relationships and the diverse interests of various armed factions in Syria to achieve its long-term goals. ( IMEMC ) On Satureday, day 456 of its brutal and protracted military onslaught against the Gaza Strip, the Israeli military continued its genocidal bombing campaign in various regions, killing and injuring dozens of Palestinians. Israeli forces killed at least 73 Palestinians in continuous air strikes on the Gaza Strip over 24 hours on Saturday. Saturday, 3:24 pm A number of Palestinian citizens were killed and injured on Saturday evening in the ongoing Israeli shelling of several areas in the Gaza Strip. A Wafa news correspondent reported that 5 Palestinian citizens were killed and others were injured in an artillery attack by the Israeli occupation forces on a gathering of citizens in Jabalia al-Balad, north of the Gaza Strip. In addition, four Palestinians were killed and others were injured in a bombing of the Tuffah neighborhood east of Gaza City, and that a Palestinian was killed and others were injured in a bombing around Palestine Stadium to the west. In Rafah city, a young man was killed as a result of the Israeli occupations bombing of the Araba area north of the city, while rescue crews recovered the body of a Palestinian near the Al-Firdaws area west of the city. The Israeli occupation aircraft targeted a house on Yarmouk Street in Sheikh Radwan neighborhood in Gaza City, and another house in Al-Shati camp west of the city, while a drone bombed a group of citizens west of Al-Barbari station on Al-Jalaa Street in the center of Gaza City. Medical sources indicated that 41 Palestinians were killed today in the Israeli occupations raids on various areas of the Gaza Strip since dawn today, including 27 in the northern Gaza Strip. 1:15 pm Five Palestinian citizens were killed and others were injured on Saturday afternoon in Israeli shelling of Jabalia town, north of the Gaza Strip, and Deir al-Balah city, central Gaza Strip. A Wafa news correspondent reported that a Palestinian citizen was killed and others were injured when the Israeli occupation aircraft bombed a group of citizens at the Halabi roundabout in Jabalia al-Balad, in addition to the killing of another Palestinian citizen and the injury of several others when a quadcopter aircraft targeted a group of citizens in the vicinity of Halima al-Sadia School in Jabalia al-Nazla, north of the Strip. Three Palestinian citizens were also killed and others were injured in the occupations bombing of a civilian vehicle on Salah al-Din Street, east of Deir al-Balah city, while a number of Palestinians were injured in the shelling carried out by the Israeli occupations artillery on the vicinity of al-Sabra Girls School, south of Gaza City, while the occupations drones fired on the Ahmed Yassin Street area, west of Gaza City. 12:15 pm The Israeli occupation forces have continued their limited incursion east of Deir al-Balah city and al-Bureij refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip since tonight, amidst the escalation of the genocidal war that it has been committing for nearly 15 months. Blue Babies, Digital, Dream / Dreamland v.3 / Clip2Comic, 2024 Eyewitnesses told Anadolu Agency that army vehicles made limited advances on Friday evening in the eastern areas of Deir al-Balah and al-Bureij camp, amid heavy ground and air cover. Witnesses added that the Abu al-Ajeen area, east of Deir al-Balah, witnessed artillery shelling and gunfire from the invading vehicles. This incursion came hours after the occupation army warned the residents of several areas in the Al-Bureij camp in the middle of the Strip to evacuate immediately, in preparation for a military attack after a rocket was launched towards the settlements adjacent to the Strip. According to the Palestine News Network, Since October 7, 2023, nearly 2 million displaced Palestinians have been forced to live in tattered tents, lacking the most basic necessities to withstand the harsh winter conditions, after Israeli forces destroyed their homes. Rosalia Polin, UNICEFs chief communications officer in Gaza, warned of the deteriorating situation as winter sets in. She described children suffering from cold and damp conditions, with many still wearing summer clothing. Polin highlighted that children are scavenging through rubble for plastic scraps to burn for warmth, as diseases spread in the besieged territory where healthcare services have collapsed, and hospitals face relentless attacks. This cold weather comes at a time when medical sources announced the death of an infant in the Gaza Strip due to the cold weather and low temperatures, the seventh person to die due to the cold and lack of heating in less than a week. Rescue crews received hundreds of distress calls from the displaced to rescue them and their children, whose tents and destroyed homes were flooded by rainwater. They indicated that they could only evacuate the displaced from their damaged shelters to other places that are mostly unsuitable for shelter, and they remain in the open under the rain and bitter cold. The Israeli occupation continues its aggression on the Gaza Strip, by land, sea and air, since October 7, 2023, which resulted in the killing of 45,717 Palestinian citizens, the majority of whom are women and children, and the injury of 108,856 others, in an incomplete toll, as thousands of victims are still under the rubble and in the streets, and ambulance and rescue crews cannot reach them . Via IMEMC Licensed under a Creative Commons Attr-NonCom 4.0 International License. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 6, 2025) - Atomic Minerals Corporation. (TSXV: ATOM) ("Atomic Minerals" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Matthew Schwab to its Board of Directors. As a Saskatoon-based exploration geologist, Matthew is a recognized authority in uranium exploration and development, bringing with him over 15 years of impactful experience in the field. CEO of Atomic Minerals Corp. commented, "We are thrilled to welcome Matthew Schwab to the Board of Atomic Minerals. Matthew's proven track record as a top-notch exploration geologist is evident in his pivotal roles in the discovery and development of multiple significant uranium deposits. His accomplishments, including being instrumental in the discovery of the Arrow uranium deposit during his time at NexGen Energy and his contributions to the Roughrider deposit sale to Rio Tinto for $654 million, highlight his exceptional ability to create value through exploration. With over a decade of experience in uranium exploration, Matthew's leadership and expertise will undoubtedly strengthen our team as we advance our exploration projects." About Matthew Schwab Mr. Matthew Schwab is a highly regarded exploration geologist based in Saskatchewan, with over 15 years' experience in resource exploration and development. His work has been pivotal to the discovery, advancement, and sale of multiple uranium deposits in Canada. Currently, he serves as the CEO and a Board member of Stallion Uranium Corp., focused on uranium exploration in the Athabasca Basin. As Senior Exploration Geologist at NexGen Energy, Mr. Schwab played a key role in the 2014 discovery of the Arrow uranium deposit in the southwestern Athabasca Basin, now recognized as one of the most significant uranium discoveries worldwide. Earlier in his career, he contributed to the development of Hathor Exploration's Roughrider deposit, which was sold to Rio Tinto for $654 million in 2012. He also previously served as CEO and Director of Kraken Energy and co-founded Axiom Exploration Group, where he held the role of Senior Vice President. His leadership extends across several successful public companies and private mineral exploration and E&P consulting firms within Canada's mining and petroleum industries. Mr. Schwab holds a B.Sc. Honours, in Geological Sciences from the University of Saskatchewan and is a Registered Professional Geoscientist with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan (APEGS). Matthew Schwab, incoming Director stated, "I am very excited to be joining the Board of Atomic Minerals and contributing to the advancement of the Company's impressive portfolio of uranium projects including those in Saskatchewan, a region I know well from my extensive work in the Athabasca Basin, as well as the promising properties within the Colorado Plateau. With a resurgence in nuclear power driven by the world's growing power deficit, uranium is undeniably key to unlocking a sustainable energy future. I am confident in the capabilities of the Atomic team and look forward to leveraging my experience to support the Company's strategic initiatives and drive value for shareholders. Together, we are well-positioned to capitalize on the increasing demand for uranium in this dynamic market." Mr. James Hyland has resigned as a director of the Company creating the vacancy on the Board for the appointment of Mr. Schwab. The Company is grateful to Mr. Hyland for his considerable service and wishes him all the best in his future endeavours. About the Company Atomic Minerals Corp. is a publicly listed exploration company on the TSX Venture Exchange, trading under the symbol ATOM, led by a highly skilled management and technical team with a proven track record in the junior mining sector. Atomic Minerals' objective is to identify exploration opportunities in regions that have been previously overlooked but are geologically similar to those with previous uranium discoveries. These underexplored areas hold immense potential and are in stable geopolitical and economic environments. Atomic Minerals' property portfolio contains uranium projects in three locations within North America, all of which have significant technical merit and are known for hosting uranium production in the past. Three of the properties are located on the Colorado Plateau, an area that has previously produced 597 million pounds of U3O8. Three properties, comprising four claims totalling 2,180 hectares, are located in Northern Saskatchewan: two within or proximal to the prolific Athabasca basin and a third which hosts a historic resource. For additional information about the Company and its projects, please visit our website at www.atomicminerals.ca ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS "Clive Massey" Clive H. Massey President & CEO Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor their Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking" statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Although Atomic Minerals Corporation believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of Atomic Minerals Corporation management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by law, Atomic Minerals Corporation undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Vancouver, British Columbia TheNewswire - January 6, 2025 Juggernaut Exploration Ltd (JUGR.V) (OTCQB: JUGRF) (FSE: 4JE) (the Company or Juggernaut) is pleased to report results from its 2024 drill campaign at the Kokomo Volcanogenic Hosted Massive Sulphide (VHMS) target where drill hole MD-24-47 intercepted 8.27 g/t AuEq (6.21 g/t Au, 99.63 g/t Ag, 0.42 % Cu, and 1.08 % Zn) over 11.03 m and remains open to depth and to the North on its 100 % controlled Midas property, Golden Triangle, British Columbia. Strong gold values, as well as sulphide mineralization consistent with what is typically observed in proximity of an Eskay-style VHMS system in the form of moderate, semi-massive and/or massive chalcopyrite, sphalerite and pyrite hosted in a quartz-sericite-chlorite schist strongly indicates the potential for a VHMS deposit at depth. Integration of additional assay results will focus future drill plans to expand on this discovery both to depth and on trend to the North, where the high-grade mineralization remains open. Dan Stuart, President and CEO of Juggernaut Exploration, states, It is exciting to have confirmation with the drill bit of broad high-grade gold VHMS mineralization on our Flagship Midas property. The fact that mineralization is widespread on surface as well as in drill holes strongly indicates a large system at play on the property. With the 2024 drilling we have potentially intercepted the core of the VHMS system and are now in a position to expand on this exciting discovery both along strike to the north and to depth with future drilling. Midas 2024 Drilling Highlights Eskey-style VHMS mineralization with grades up to 8.27 g/t AuEq over 11.03 m and associated alteration has been intercepted at the Kokomo target and remains open to depth and to the north. The excellent gold-copper-zinc mineralization confirmed at Kokomo strongly indicates close proximity to the heart of the VHMS system. Midas Drilling Map 2024 MD-24-47 collared from the Kokomo Pad intercepted 8.27 g/t AuEq (6.21 g/t Au, 99.63 g/t Ag, 0.42 % Cu, and 1.08 % Zn) over 11.03 m, including 9.32 g/t AuEq (7.01 g/t Au, 112.30 g/t Ag, 0.46 Cu and 1.20 % Zn) over 9.75 m, and 22.77 g/t AuEq (15.09 g/t Au, 325.58 g/t Ag, 1.91 % Cu and 4.59 % Zn) over 1.90 m. MD-24-47_kokomo The 2024 drill results in combination with results from previous years confirm an extensive north-south gold-copper-zinc rich mineralized trend that remains open to the north and to depth extending for 550 m on strike with a large relatively shallow 100 to 200 meter Induced Polarization (IP) chargeability and resistivity anomaly. 3D IP Inversion map The gold and base metals component clearly increases towards the north towards the Kokomo showing and beyond located on surface above the IP anomaly strongly indicating close proximity to the heart of a VHMS deposit. This has been confirmed with the 2024 discovery hole MD-24-47, the only hole to test the Kokomo target. and the strong IP anomaly at depth that intercepted 8.27 g/t AuEq over 11.03 m from 148.25 meters to 159.28 meters and remains open. Multiple additional drill holes have intersected Au-Cu-Zn mineralization along a 700 m trend to the South from the Kokomo target with intervals characterized by moderate, semi-massive and/or massive sulphide mineralization consisting of chalcopyrite, sphalerite and pyrite hosted in a quartz-sericite-chlorite schist. Sulphides generally occur as semi-massive to massive aggregates and stringers. The strong mineralization is usually enveloped by a zone of alteration consisting of quartz-sericite-chlorite schist containing disseminated sulphide, including pyrite and minor chalcopyrite and sphalerite and remains open, indicating the presence of a large gold-rich VHMS system on Midas. The strong gold values and sulphide mineralization observed in extended intervals from drill holes completed during the 2024 program is strongly reminiscent of the surface samples collected at Kokomo which assayed up to 9.343 gpt Au, 117 gpt Ag, 1.58 % Cu and 1.77 % Zn. The system remains open along strike to the north and to depth, providing excellent additional opportunity for discovery. Drill hole MD-24-47 collared from the Kokomo showing intercepted 8.27 g/t AuEq over 11.03 m (6.21 g/t Au, 99.63 g/t Ag, 0.42 % Cu, and 1.08 % Zn) at a depth of 148.25 m to 159.28 m, well below the surface mineralization that assayed up to 9.343 gpt Au, 117 gpt Ag, 1.58 % Cu and 1.77 % Zn. The mineralized system remains open to the north and to depth. Additional intervals of gold-copper-zinc mineralization intercepted to the south of the Kokomo showing, combined with the vectoring information obtained from previous years drilling, strongly indicate that the mineralization in strongest towards the north. Table 1: Drill hole highlights from the 2024 Midas drill program Hole ID From (m) To (m) Interal (m) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Cu (%) Pb (%) Zn (%) AuEq (g/t) MD-24-47 Interval 148.25 159.28 11.03 6.21 99.63 0.42 0.01 1.08 8.27 Including 148.25 158.00 9.75 7.01 112.30 0.46 0.01 1.20 9.32 Including 154.60 156.50 1.90 15.09 325.58 1.91 0.02 4.59 22.77 Including 146.03 147.10 1.07 21.30 444.00 3.14 0.03 5.91 32.23 Interval 116.33 118.25 1.92 0.66 3.99 0.11 0.00 0.13 0.87 Including 117.25 118.25 1.00 0.97 5.75 0.14 0.00 0.21 1.27 MD-24-55 Interval 69.00 72.85 3.85 0.52 7.97 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.62 Including 70.00 72.85 2.85 0.66 8.70 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.76 Including 72.00 72.85 0.85 1.03 10.17 0.00 0.00 0.10 1.15 MD-24-56 Interval 45.00 46.00 1.00 1.19 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.19 MD-24-59 Interval 50.95 53.00 2.05 1.11 11.25 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.24 Including 52.05 53.00 0.95 1.42 11.30 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.55 Mineralization consists of moderate (3-6 %), semi-massive (6-10 %) and/or massive (> 10 %) chalcopyrite, sphalerite and pyrite hosted in a quartz-sericite-chlorite schist. Sulphides generally occur as semi-massive to massive aggregates and stringers. This strong mineralization is enveloped by a zone of alteration consisting of quartz-sericite-chlorite schist characterized by disseminated sulphide, including pyrite and minor chalcopyrite and sphalerite and remains open. The strong gold values and sulphide mineralization observed in extended intervals from drill holes completed during the 2024 program is strongly reminiscent of the surface samples collected at Kokomo which assayed up to 9.343 gpt Au, 117 gpt Ag, 1.58 % Cu and 1.77 % Zn. Integration of additional assay results and further modelling will focus future drill plans to expand the high-grade drill discovery zone (8.27 g/t AuEq over 11.03 meters) to depth and to the North, where the high-grade mineralization remains open. Highlights from the Midas Eskay-Style Kokomo VHMS target Highlights of the Midas property includes the discovery of the gold-silver-copper-zinc rich Kokomo showing (9.343 gpt Au, 117 gpt Ag, 1.58 % Cu and 1.77 % Zn), drill hole MD-19-18 (6.22 m of 0.31 gpt Au, 0.95 m of 1.50 gpt Au with 1.94 % Cu and 3.22 m of 0.36 gpt Au) and the VG Zone (2.24 gpt Au, 6.83 gpt Ag, 0.18 % Cu and 1.04 % Zn over 4.80 meters). Extensive broad copper-zinc-gold rich intervals consisting of considerable chalcopyrite, sphalerite and pyrite in aggregates, stringers and veinlets have been intersected in multiple drill holes from 2023 and 2024 collared from an area encompassing the VG Zone and Kokomo showing consistent with an Eskay-style VHMS system. Results from the 2023 drill campaign intersected weak to moderate sulphide mineralization in the south that assayed up to 1.56 gpt AuEq (0.35 gpt Au, 6.10 gpt Ag, 0.64 % Cu and 0.67 % Zn) over 5.00 meters, suggesting that mineralization is stronger towards the north, including the Kokomo target and beyond. The drill results in combination with results from previous years indicate an extensive north-south gold-copper-zinc rich mineralized trend that remains open extending for 550 m on strike with a large relatively shallow Induced Polarization (IP) chargeability and resistivity anomaly. The gold and base metals component clearly increases towards the Kokomo showing and beyond, strongly indicating proximity to the heart of a VHMS deposit. The host rock to the Kokomo showing has been mapped by Juggernaut former senior geologist S. Roach as well as the British Columbia Geological Survey (BCGS; M. McKeown, J. Nelson and R. Friedman, 2007)as a rhyolitic tuff with strong phyllic alteration (quartz-sericite-pyrite) from the Mt Attree volcanics, a unit highly prospective for VHMS deposits The geology, geochemistry, alteration, and extensive underlying geophysical anomaly coupled with the high-grade polymetallic Au, Ag, Cu and Zn mineralization in semi-massive to massive sulphides seen in drill core and outcrop strongly indicates the potential of a new Eskay-style VHMS discovery. The Midas property is 100% controlled and covers 20,803 hectares and is located 24 km southeast of Terrace, British Columbia in close proximity to logging access roads, power, railway and major infrastructure. The property is located in an area of recent glacial abatement and permanent snowpack recession at the southern end of the Golden Triangle, British Columbia. Multiple high-grade gold grab, chips and channel samples were collected from the Kokomo VHMS target where drill hole MD-24-47 intercepted 8.27 g/t AuEq (6.21 g/t Au, 99.63 g/t Ag, 0.42 % Cu, and 1.08 % Zn) over 11.03 m and a 1.00 m chip sample assayed 9.343 gpt Au, 117 gpt Ag, 1.58 % Cu and 1.77 % Zn and is drill ready. Relatively shallow Induced Polarization (IP) chargeability and resistivity anomalies extend under the Kokomo showing on trend to the south for at least 550 m, conducive for a buried VHMS containing semi-massive to massive sulphides at depth. Channel samples highlights from the VG Zone include 10.28 gpt Au over 4.34 meters; 15.37 gpt Au over 2 meters; and 5.43 gpt Au over 3.11 meters. Historic drill results from the Midas property include hole MD-18-16 which intersected the peripheral zone of the IP anomaly core and returned 0.56 g/t AuEq over 35.35 meters; hole MD-18-08, which assayed 6.85 gpt Au over 9 meters and narrowly missed a strong IP chargeability anomaly; and hole MD-18-01 which intersected 3.27 gpt AuEq over 4.80 meters and ended before it reached the core of a strong IP chargeability anomaly. Table 2: 2024 Midas drill hole collar information Hole ID CRS Northing (m) Easting (m) Elevation (m) Azimuth (deg) Dip (deg) Length (m) MD-24-59 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 543547 6023130 1334 285 55 124 MD-24-58 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 543614 6023046 1322 210 55 151 MD-24-57 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 543291 6022857 1416 80 60 322 MD-24-56 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 543614 6023047 1323 270 60 242 MD-24-55 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 543355 6023087 1425 70 60 287 MD-24-54 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 543290 6022857 1417 65 60 284 MD-24-53 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 543355 6023087 1425 50 60 206 MD-24-52 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 543309 6023215 1427 270 60 172 MD-24-51 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 543314 6023213 1427 130 50 370 MD-24-50 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 543315 6023215 1427 90 50 111 MD-24-49 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 543315 6023217 1427 70 60 193 MD-24-48 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 543332 6023386 1402 140 65 85 MD-24-47 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 543332 6023386 1401 110 50 191 BINGO PROPERTY UPDATE Results from the Bingo drill campaign have been received and assays up to 1.68 g/t AuEq (1.08 g/t Au and 3.97 g/t Ag) over 2.65 meters have been intersected in hole BI-24-09 from the Bingo Main Zone. A number of holes contain anomalous gold values ranging from 0.19 g/t AuEq to 1.11 g/t AuEq (see table below). The remainder of the holes drilled along strike of the shear zone at the Bingo Main Zone have returned results that are currently not considered significant. All drill holes completed to date contain anomalous values of gold. Compilation and interpretation of all data from the project remains ongoing focused on delineating future drill targets. Table 3: Drill hole highlights from the 2024 Bingo drill program Hole ID From (m) To (m) Interval (m) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) AuEq (g/t) BI-24-09 Interval 29.85 32.50 2.65 1.08 3.98 1.68 BI-24-11 Interval 33.00 37.00 4.00 0.44 3.25 0.48 Including 34.00 37.00 3.00 0.55 4.33 0.61 BI-24-12 Interval 40.00 47.35 7.35 0.49 0.00 0.49 Including 40.00 43.00 3.00 0.29 0.00 0.29 and 43.00 45.85 2.85 0.36 0.00 0.36 and 45.85 47.35 1.50 1.11 0.00 1.11 BI-24-13 Interval 50.11 55.80 5.69 0.19 0.00 0.19 Including 50.11 53.00 2.89 0.29 0.00 0.29 Table 4: 2024 Bingo drill hole collar information Hole ID CRS Northing (m) Easting (m) Elevation (m) Azimuth (deg) Dip (deg) Length (m) BI-24-31 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442663 6153277 1425 145 50 293 BI-24-30 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442351 6153019 1357 45 50 185 BI-24-29 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442351 6153019 1357 90 60 138 BI-24-28 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442351 6153019 1357 90 50 44 BI-24-27 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442351 6153019 1357 125 50 231 BI-24-26 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442351 6153019 1357 200 60 154 BI-24-25 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442351 6153019 1357 270 75 151 BI-24-24 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442387 6152652 1313 100 50 137 BI-24-23 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442387 6152652 1305 70 50 88 BI-24-22 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442387 6152652 1305 35 50 223 BI-24-21 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442222 6152606 1295 95 50 125 BI-24-20 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442276 6152659 1307 120 80 111 BI-24-19 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442276 6152659 1307 80 80 117 BI-24-18 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442276 6152659 1307 40 80 121 BI-24-17 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442290 6152777 1331 145 75 146 BI-24-16 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442290 6152777 1331 105 75 139 BI-24-15 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442290 6152777 1331 90 75 130 BI-24-14 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442276 6152659 1307 40 80 118 BI-24-13 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442259 6152870 1337 265 60 133 BI-24-12 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442259 6152870 1337 130 65 100 BI-24-11 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442259 6152870 1337 100 65 107 BI-24-10 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442259 6152870 1337 0 90 295 BI-24-09 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442259 6152870 1337 80 65 115 BI-24-08 NAD83 / UTM zone 9N 442259 6152870 1337 60 65 100 Qualified Person Rein Turna P. Geo is the qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, for Juggernaut Exploration projects, and supervised the preparation of, and has reviewed and approved, the technical information in this release. Other Oriented HQ-diameter or NQ-diameter diamond drill core from the drill campaign is placed in core boxes by the drill crew contracted by the Company. Core boxes are transported by helicopter to the staging area, and then transported by truck to the core shack. The core is then re-orientated, meterage blocks are checked, meter marks are labelled, Recovery and RQD measurements taken, and primary bedding and secondary structural features including veins, dykes, cleavage, and shears are noted and measured. The core is then described and transcribed in MX DepositTM. Drill holes were planned using Leapfrog GeoTM and QGISTM software and data from previous exploration campaigns. Drill core containing quartz breccia, stockwork, veining and/or sulphide(s), or notable alteration are sampled in lengths of 0.5 to 1.5 meters. Core samples are cut lengthwise in half, one-half remains in the box and the other half is inserted in a clean plastic bag with a sample tag. Standards, blanks and duplicates were added in the sample stream at a rate of 10%. Grab, channels, chip and talus samples were collected by foot with helicopter assistance. Prospective areas included, but were not limited to, proximity to MINFile locations, placer creek occurrences, regional soil anomalies, and potential gossans based on high-resolution satellite imagery. The rock grab and chip samples were extracted using a rock hammer, or hammer and chisel to expose fresh surfaces and to liberate a sample of anywhere between 0.5 to 5.0 kilograms. All sample sites were flagged with biodegradable flagging tape and marked with the sample number. All sample sites were recorded using hand-held GPS units (accuracy 3-10 meters) and sample ID, easting, northing, elevation, type of sample (outcrop, subcrop, float, talus, chip, grab, etc.) and a description of the rock were recorded on all-weather paper. Samples were then inserted in a clean plastic bag with a sample tag for transport and shipping to the geochemistry lab. QA/QC samples including blanks, standards, and duplicate samples were inserted regularly into the sample sequence at a rate of 10%. All samples are transported in rice bags sealed with numbered security tags. A transport company takes them from the core shack to the Paragon Geochemical labs facilities in Surrey, BC or ALS labs facilities in North Vancouver, BC. Paragon Geochemical is certified with both AC89-IAS and ISO/IEC Standard 17025:2017. ALS is either certified to ISO 9001:2008 or accredited to ISO 17025:2005 in all of its locations. Samples submitted to Paragon received gold and silver analysis by photon assay whereby the entire sample is crushed to approximately 70% passing 2 mm mesh. The entire crushed sample is riffle split and weighed into multiple (300-500g) jars that are submitted for photon assay. Photon assay uses high-energy X-rays (photons) to excite atomic nuclei within the jarred samples, causing them to emit secondary gamma rays, which are measured to identify and quantify the metals present. The assays from all jars are combined on a weight-averaged basis. At ALS samples were processed, dried, crushed, and pulverized before analysis using the ME-MS61 and Au-SCR21 methods. For the ME-MS61 method, a prepared sample is digested with perchloric, nitric, hydrofluoric, and hydrochloric acids. The residue is topped up with dilute hydrochloric acid and analyzed by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry. Overlimits were re-analyzed using the ME-OG62 and Ag-GRA21 methods (gravimetric finish). For Au-SCR21 a large volume of sample is needed (typically 1-3kg). The sample is crushed and screened (usually to -106 micron) to separate coarse gold particles from fine material. After screening, two aliquots of the fine fraction are analysed using the traditional fire assay method. The fine fraction is expected to be reasonably homogenous and well represented by the duplicate analyses. The entire coarse fraction is assayed to determine the contribution of the coarse gold. For more information, please contact: Juggernaut Exploration Ltd. Dan Stuart President and Chief Executive Officer Tel: (604)-559-8028 www.juggernautexploration.com NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENT Certain disclosure in this release may constitute forward-looking statements that are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties relating to Juggernauts operations that may cause future results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by those forward-looking statements, including its ability to complete the contemplated private placement. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these statements. NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR TO U.S. PERSONS OR FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES. THIS PRESS RELEASE DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR AN INVITATION TO PURCHASE ANY SECURITIES DESCRIBED IN IT. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - January 6, 2025) - XXIX Metal Corp. (TSXV: XXIX) (OTCQB: QCCUF) ("XXIX" or the "Company") is pleased to announce drill results from its focused 3-hole drill program on the Saddle Zone, including 11 metres of 5.3% Cu and 1.20 g/t Au from 81 metres (OPM-24-281). The Saddle Zone lies between the past producing Springer and Perry mines and is located within Opemiska's current conceptual open pit outlined in the Mineral Resource Estimate from January 2024. This zone is relatively underexplored and serves as a transition zone between Springer and Perry, consisting of veins oriented differently from that of Springer and Perry. XXIX has been working to determine the orientation of the veining in this area and recently developed a new geological thesis, underlying the 3-hole scout drilling program completed in November. The results from the drilling program support the thesis, indicating potential for follow-up exploration. As a result, the Company is planning a larger and more focused drill program to confirm the orientation of the veins in the Saddle Zone, which could lead to resource expansion in the Saddle Zone. The Saddle Zone is particularly significant for mine planning and engineering, as it currently has less data and hosts comparatively lower levels of known mineralization. Successfully discovering and delineating new mineralization in this area could have a material impact on Opemiska's future engineering and economic studies. Figure 1: Plan View of Saddle Zone Drill Holes New Interpretation of the Saddle Zone Results from this program indicate the presence of a structurally controlled, mineralized envelope entrained into a north-west trending fault. The new interpretation of the mineralization represents significant upside to Opemiska's current resource model by adding scale and converting previously interpreted waste into ore. Additionally, previous drilling on the Saddle Zone shows mineralization outside of the known vein at the Saddle Zone. Future drilling at the Saddle Zone will assist in interpreting the mineralization in and outside of the vein, ultimately creating additional mineralized envelopes that can positively impact future economics at the Opemiska copper project. Summary of reported composite intersections: Table 1 Hole ID UTM Coordinates (East/North) From (m) To (m) Interval (m) CuEq1 (%) Cu (%) Au (g/t) OPM-24-280 510244 / 5515285 19.5 30.0 10.5 0.38 0.35 0.05 OPM-24-280 510244 / 5515285 72 82.5 10.5 0.24 0.22 0.028 OPM-24-280 510244 / 5515285 100.5 102.9 2.4 0.72 0.66 0.093 OPM-24-281 510233 / 5515213 81 92 11 5.99 5.29 1.204 OPM-24-281 510233 / 5515213 138 145.5 7.5 0.60 0.56 0.058 OPM-24-282 510308 / 5515248 75 78 3 0.43 0.40 0.046 OPM-24-282 510308 / 5515248 96 99.6 3.6 0.45 0.41 0.06 OPM-24-282 510308 / 5515248 129 135 6 0.45 0.39 0.11 OPM-24-282 510308 / 5515248 177 183 6 0.44 0.42 0.04 1 Copper Equivalent (CuEq) shown in Tables for drill intersections are calculated on a basis of US$ 4.00/lb for Cu and US$ 2,000/oz for Au, with 91% metallurgical recovery assumed for Cu and 72% metallurgical recovery assumed for Au. The formula is: CuEq. = Cu % + (Au grade in g/t x (Au recovery / Cu recovery) x [Au price 31] / [Cu price x 2200]). *True widths on the Saddle Zone are not yet known. About XXIX Metal Corp. XXIX is advancing its Opemiska and Thierry Copper projects, two significant Canadian copper assets. The Opemiska Project, Canada's highest-grade copper resource, spans 13,000 hectares in Quebec's Chapais-Chibougamau region, with strong infrastructure and nearby access to the Horne Smelter. A January 2024 resource update reported a 16% increase in contained Copper Equivalent (CuEq) and a 10% grade boost, including 87.3 million tonnes at 0.93% CuEq (Measured & Indicated) and additional Out of Pit resources. The Thierry Project hosts two past-producing ore bodies, one of which was mined underground for six years, producing 5.8Mt @ 1.13% Cu, 0.14% Ni between 1976 - 1982 by UMEX Inc. Historically, copper concentrate was shipped to the Horne Smelter in Rouyn-Noranda, QC. Significant infrastructure is already in place, with the Thierry property being accessible via all-season road, an airport within 5km, a provincial power grid within 8km, and nearby rail. With these two high-potential projects, the Company has solidified its position as a key player in the Canadian copper sector, and has established itself as one of Eastern Canada's largest copper developer. QP Statement The technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Charles Beaudry, P.Geo and geo., Director and Vice President Exploration for XXIX Metal, a Qualified Person, as defined in "National Instrument 43-101, Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects." For the exploration undertaken by XXIX Metal, all assay batches are accompanied by rigorous Quality Assurance procedures, including the insertion of standards and blanks and verification assays in a secondary laboratory. All the core received from the drill is split in half, bagged and sent to ALS-Global facilities in Val d'Or, Quebec for sample preparation and then the pulps are shipped to AlS-Global's Vancouver laboratory or some other location in the world for analysis using ALS-Global's standardized ISO-compliant methods, all of which are listed in the laboratory certificates provided with the assay results. The remaining half core along with the rejects and the pulps returned from the laboratory are securely stored at QC Copper's facilities in Chapais, Quebec. Quality Control results, including the laboratory's control samples, are evaluated immediately on reception of batch results and corrections are implemented immediately if necessary. All drill collars are surveyed and positioned in UTM coordinates. Collars are oriented using a gyroscopic north-finding system and downhole deviations surveys are done with a single-shot gyroscopic instrument at 30 to 50m intervals. Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements. When used in this document, the words "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "seek", "propose", "estimate", "expect", and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect the Company's current views with respect to future events and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors could cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements to vary from those described in this news release. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in this news release as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Specific forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements pertaining to the commencement of trading of the Common Shares on the TSXV under the new name and new stock ticker. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of the risk factors set forth above and elsewhere in this news release. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. These statements are given only as of the date of this news release. The Company does not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise, except as required by law. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. TORONTO, Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nobel Resources Corp. (TSX V: NBLC) (the Company or Nobel) is pleased to announce it has entered into binding agreements pursuant to which it can acquire a 100% interest in four separate copper projects (collectively, the Projects), namely Cuprita, Janett, Pampa Austral and Anais (the Transaction). The Projects are being acquired by Nobels wholly owned Chilean subsidiary, Mantos Grandes Resources Chile SpA (Mantos). Mantos is acquiring the Cuprita Project claims pursuant to an option agreement dated January 3, 2025 between Mantos and a group of private Chilean companies listed below. The Cuprita Project is the most advanced Project being acquired pursuant the Transaction and will be the Companys principal asset following the closing of the Transaction. Cuprita is a highly prospective copper project with multiple near surface targets identified during recent rock sampling campaigns. The Janett, Pampa Austral and Anais Projects are being acquired pursuant to option agreements dated January 3, 2025 between Mantos and each of Austral Exploraciones SpA (Austral), a privately owned Chilean exploration company (respectively the, Janett Option Agreement, the Pampa Austral Option Agreement and the Janett Option Agreement). Highlights: Cuprita is a large, highly prospective copper project with year-round road access located in a major copper producing region of Chile. Cuprita is located in the renowned Paleocene Porphyry Copper Belt that hosts several major porphyry copper deposits, such as El Salvador, Cerro Colorado, Spence, Sierra Gorda, Fortuna, as well as some Au deposits (see figure 1). Several small-scale producing mines are also located near the property. The property has untested geological characteristics that indicate potential for a significant porphyry copper deposit. Janett and Pampa Austral have abundant copper oxide mineralization at surface and multiple small scale artisanal operations (past and present). Many of these small pits reach a depth of 20 to 30 meters and many have underground workings. Historic results at Pampa Austral have returned 70 m grading 0.7% copper (including 14m grading 2.1% copper + 0.1 g/t gold). Janett has seen little modern exploration despite the multiple, past producing mines and anomalous copper mineralization at surface. The Projects are located in a highly developed mining region North of Copiapo surrounded by many of the major companies in the global copper mining business. The combined portfolio enjoys road access and moderate elevation making the Projects accessible for exploration programs 12 months of the year. Nobel intends to initially focus on Cuprita and the near surface potential identified during recent due diligence visits. According to Larry Guy, CEO and Director of Nobel: Our technical team has evaluated dozens of early-stage copper projects in South America. This portfolio of copper projects is located in one of the most important copper producing regions in the world and required years of persistence by the vendors to assemble. Our Chilean technical staff have completed careful due diligence on all of the properties and have identified geological characteristics commonly associated with large porphyry deposits in the region on each of the properties. About the Cuprita Project The 1,000 hectare Cuprita property is located approximately 126 km Northeast of Copiapo (population 160,000), and 36 km Southeast of Diego de Almagro, both are important regional mining centers. The Project is accessible by road with a short traverse along a gravel track for the final few kilometers. Average elevation for the property is estimated at 1,920 meters above sea level and the Project can be advanced 12 months of the year. Figure 1. Regional Map Old mine workings that likely exploited high grade veins were initially identified. Soil and talus geochemical surveys were completed by previous explorers in the vicinity of the old workings. During Nobels initial due diligence site visits, numerous mineralized veins up to 30cm wide and associated veinlets carrying copper mineralization were identified and sampled on the Project. These veins, along with the associated alteration are interpreted as evidence of a porphyry system at shallow depth. Three highly prospective targets have been identified during due diligence visits by Nobel geologists. The geologic model for the Cuprita Project is one similar to other low pyrite major porphyry deposits in the belt. Figure 2. Geochemistry anomaly exploration targets at Cuprita Vern Arseneau, COO and Director of Nobel: Cuprita has a similar surface geological signature to that of major deposits in the region when at this same early stage. The Project also enjoys year-round access, and we have a team in place ready to get to work. Highly anomalous copper at surface in a prolific copper producing region with similar geology to neighboring, major producing mines is an exciting place to start. About the Pampa Austral Project The Pampa Austral Project is located about 35km north from the city of Diego de Almagro and can be accessed via gravel roads all year. The 2,700 Ha Project is located within the Iron Oxide Copper Gold belt (IOCG) that includes mines like Manto Verde (350 Mt grading 0.75% copper) and the Santo Domingo deposit (390 Mt grading 0.3% copper). The district is well known as an active mining region and it is very close to important infrastructure including power, water and ports. Figure 3. Pampa Austral Location Far West Mining Ltd. (Far West) explored the Project in the early 2000s. Highlights include one drill hole which reportedly intercepted Specular Hematite (an iron mineral) and a mineralized copper zone of 70 m grading 0.7% copper (incl. 14m grading 2.1% copper + 0.1 g/t gold) over a chargeability anomaly. The presence of iron and copper in close relation to a chargeability anomaly are important markers. Geochemical grid sampling performed by previous explorers shows a widespread >200 ppm Cu anomaly, that can be subdivided into 3 main zones. (See figure 4) The mineralized quartz veins strike to the SW and to the SE, and in the Central zone show a broader anomaly. Within these zones occur in more restricted areas with +300 ppm copper values Figure 4. Pampa Austral Geochemistry About the Janett Project The past producing Janett deposit is part of the coastal stratabound Copper ore deposit metallogenic belt that can be followed for 400 km from Taltal to Tocopilla. Janett is located 16 km NNE of Antofagasta. A key feature of this type of ore deposit is the genetic link to magmatic hydrothermal fluids and proximity to intrusives. The Janett Project contains several past producing small scale mines including the Janett and Michos mines. The Janett mine was a combination of a shallow open pit and underground workings. 10 Channel samples along 5m widths were taken on the South wall of the Janett open pit. Average grade over the 55 m was 0.79% copper. Copper oxide Mineralization remains open to the North, East, South and West. Figure 5. Janett Mine open pit and underground workings Michos (part of Janett property) is a complex of 4 small open pits estimated at approximately 20 meters deep. Abundant disseminated copper oxide has been observed by Nobel geologists, but no evidence of modern exploration activities was observed. Figure 6. Disseminated copper oxide at Michos Mine. About Anais Anais, like Pampa Austral, was previously explored by Far West in the early 2000s. Anais is a modest sized project approximately 1x1 km (~100 hectares) located approximately 10km from Manto Verde mine. Previous exploration activity delivered high grade copper results. Far West reported 60m grading 2.47% copper and 0.33 g/t gold. Follow-up drilling by Far West did not return significant results. An artisanal mine is located approximately 75 m south of this intercept. Channel sampling from a pillar in the artisanal mine returned similar grades from Mantos material (10m of 6.9% copper, 0.6 g/t gold). Mining and associated infrastructure has improved in the area since the initial drilling by Far West. The limited footprint of Anais will concentrate exploration efforts towards high grade near surface potential. Nobel has not verified the historical results contained in this press release and is not relying on them as current mineral resources or mineral reserves. Readers are cautioned that there has been insufficient exploration by the Company or its qualified person at each of the Projects to define a mineral resource or mineral reserve; and it is uncertain whether further exploration will result in these targets being delineated as a mineral resource or mineral reserve. Transaction Terms Cuprita Project The Cuprita Project claims are being acquired pursuant to an option agreement dated January 3, 2025 between Mantos and each of the following private Chilean exploration companies: Sociedad Legal Minera Cuprita 1 A1 de Diego de Almagro, Sociedad Legal Minera Cuprita 1 B 1 de Diego de Almagro, Sociedad Legal Minera Cuprita 1 C1 de Diego de Almagro, Sociedad Legal Minera Cuprita 4 A 1 de Diego de Almagro, Sociedad Legal Minera Cuprita 4 B 1 de Diego de Almagro, Sociedad Legal Minera Cuprita 4 C 1 de Diego de Almagro, Sociedad Legal Minera Cuprita 7 1 de Diego de Almagro and Sociedad Legal Minera Cuprita 9 1 de Diego de Almagro (the Cuprita Option Agreement). Pursuant to the Cuprita Option Agreement, Nobel must make the following cash payments to the optionor: USD$20K cash payment on signing the Cuprita Option Agreement USD$20k cash payment on the 12-month anniversary of signing the Cuprita Option Agreement USD$50k cash payment on the 24-month anniversary of signing the Cuprita Option Agreement USD$150k cash payment on the 36-month anniversary of signing the Cuprita Option Agreement USD$1M cash payment on the 48-month anniversary of signing the Cuprita Option Agreement 2% NSR to the optionors of which 0.5% can be repurchased for USD$2M Pursuant to a binding letter agreement dated January 3, 2025 between Nobel and the shareholders of Austral (the Vendors), the Company shall issue to the Vendors: 2.5 million Nobel shares on closing of the Transaction; and 2.5 million Nobel shares upon Nobel establishing an NI 43-101 compliant mineral resource estimate on the Cuprita Project. Pampa Austral Project Pursuant to the Pampa Austral Option Agreement, Nobel must make the following cash payments to the optionor: USD$20K cash payment on signing the Pampa Austral Option Agreement USD$20k cash payment on the 12-month anniversary of signing the Pampa Austral Option Agreement USD$50k cash payment on the 24-month anniversary of signing the Pampa Austral Option Agreement USD$150k cash payment on the 36-month anniversary of signing the Pampa Austral Option Agreement USD$1M cash payment on the 48-month anniversary of signing the Pampa Austral Option Agreement 2% NSR to the optionor of which 0.5% can be repurchased for USD$820k. Janett Project Pursuant to the Janett Option Agreement, Nobel must make the following cash payments to the optionor: USD$20K cash payment on signing the Janett Option Agreement USD$20k cash payment on the 12-month anniversary of signing the Janett Option Agreement USD$50k cash payment on the 24-month anniversary of signing the Janett Option Agreement USD$150k cash payment on the 36-month anniversary of signing the Janett Option Agreement USD$500k cash payment on the 48-month anniversary of signing the Janett Option Agreement 2% NSR to the optionor of which 0.5% can be repurchased for USD$820k Anais Project Pursuant to the Anais Option Agreement, Nobel must make the following cash payments to the optionor: USD$10K cash payment on signing the Anais Option Agreement USD$10k cash payment on the 12-month anniversary of signing the Anais Option Agreement USD$10k cash payment on the 24-month anniversary of signing the Anais Option Agreement USD$10k cash payment on the 36-month anniversary of signing the Anais Option Agreement USD$500k cash payment on the 48-month anniversary of signing the Anais Option Agreement 2% NSR to the optionor of which 0.5% can be repurchased for USD$360k The Transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV). The Transaction is an arms length transaction and Nobel is not paying any finders fees in connection with the Transaction. Trading of the Nobel common shares on the TSXV will remain halted pending receipt and review of acceptable documentation pursuant to Section 5.6 (d) of TSXV Policy 5.3 regarding Fundamental Acquisitions. RSU/DSU Plan On November 15, 2024, shareholders of the Company approved Nobels restricted share unit/deferred share unit plan (the RSU/DSU Plan). The aggregate number of Nobel common shares that are reserved for issuance under the plan is 6,200,000 common shares. The RSU/DSU Plan has been approved by the TSXV. A copy of the RSU/DSU Plan can be found under the Companys profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Qualified Person The scientific and technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Mr. David Gower, P.Geo., as defined by National Instrument 43-101 of the Canadian Securities Administrators. About Nobel Nobel Resources is a Canadian resource company focused on identifying and developing prospective mineral projects. The Company has a team with a strong background of exploration success. For further information, please contact: Lawrence Guy Chief Executive Officer +1 647-276-0533 Vincent Chen Investor Relations This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. www.nobel-resources.com Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Information This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, without limitation, regarding the prospectivity of the Project, the mineralization of the Project, the Companys exploration program, the Transaction and the Companys ability to close the Transaction, the Companys ability to explore and develop the Project and the Companys future plans. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as plans, expects or does not expect, is expected, budget, scheduled, estimates, forecasts, intends, anticipates or does not anticipate, or believes, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, might or will be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward- looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Nobel, as the case may be, to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, geopolitical and social uncertainties; the actual results of current exploration activities; risks associated with operation in foreign jurisdictions; ability to successfully integrate the purchased properties; foreign operations risks; and other risks inherent in the mining industry. Although Nobel has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in 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 information 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 information. Nobel does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Information and links in this press release relating to other mineral resource companies are from their sources believed to be reliable, but that have not been independently verified by the Company. NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 6, 2025) - Grit Metals (TSXV: FIN) (FSE: K9T) ("Grit" or the "Company") is pleased to report additional high grade assay results from Lithium-Cesium-Tantalum (LCT) pegmatite mineralization on its exploration licenses at its Central Finland Lithium Project. Key Takeaways: All assay results now received including the final batch of 150/660 total samples Grab sample from spodumene bearing pegmatite assayed of 5.60% Li 2 O at Tarikko Prospect O at Tarikko Prospect Jylha South-Southwest: Several large boulders up to 1.5 m diameter with visible spodumene discovered adjacent to the Morkyla Prospect where 15 large boulders up to 4 m diameter with visible spodumene discovered over a 275 metre (m") distance assayed from 0.004% to 2.46% Li 2 O Figure 1. The Finland Lithium Pegmatite Project - New Spodumene Mineralization Jylha South-Southwest Three areas of new spodumene bearing pegmatite mineralization have been identified in the southern portion of the Jylha license. Approximately 225 m east of the Morkyla Prospect, a 1.2x1.0x0.7 m boulder assayed 0.94% Li2O . Morkyla is a 275 m long Northwest-Southeast trend of 15 large boulders and blocks of spodumene-bearing pegmatite. Individual boulders are over 4 m in diameter and contain course visible spodumene (see Figure 2) The boulders assayed from 0.004% to 2.46% Li 2 O, averaging 0.54% Li 2 O. Figure 2. New Spodumene Mineralization in Jylha South Approximately 1.7 km southwest of Morkyla a couple of spodumene bearing boulders assayed 0.11% and 2.13% Li 2 O. These boulders occur approximately 300 m southeast of a 3 m diameter boulder that assayed 1.47% Li 2 O. These boulders form another trend of mineralization that potentially has an up-ice source within the Jylha license. Approximately 1.6 km south of Morkyla another cluster of spodumene pegmatite boulders occurs. The highlight of this cluster is a 1.5x1.5x1.0m boulder that assayed 0.62% Li 2 O. Tarikko Prospect At the companies Koura Project located in the Seinajoki Lithium-Tin Belt a grab sample of an outcrop of an LCT pegmatite assayed 5.60% Li 2 O. The width and strike length of the pegmatite are unknown at this time. Koura occurs approximately 100 km south of the companies main group of licenses in the Kaustinen Lithium Tract. Discussion The Company's projects are in the Kaustinen-Seinajoki region, which is highly prospective for LCT pegmatite deposits, as evidenced by the success of the Geological Survey of Finland (GTK) and subsequently Keliber Oy in discovering significant Li-bearing spodumene pegmatite prospects and deposits in the region. The Company's success in identifying widespread spodumene-rich LCT pegmatitic boulders is very encouraging, as the area is topographically flat and extensively covered by a thin veneer of glacial overburden. It is important to note that all the significant deposit and prospect discoveries (with one exception) in the belt were found by tracing boulders back to source and identifying the source ultimately through drilling. The GTK/Keliber Oy discoveries demonstrate that boulders are generally located within 300 500 m of their source suggests excellent potential for discovery on the Company's licenses. Grit Metals cautions investors grab samples are selective samples by their nature and are not necessarily indicative of mineralization on the property. The Company further cautions the presence of lithium mineralization on Keliber Oy's properties is not necessarily indicative of similar mineralization on the Company's mineral reservations. "Through multiple phases of exploration our team continues to discover new, highly prospective areas of LCT mineralization which has led to a tripling of our project size," commented Jeremy Poirier, CEO of Grit Metals. "This is a testament to the strength of our exploration team in their ability to discover the expressions and ultimately the source of these lithium rich deposits. Our exploration program remains fully-funded and continued until the end of October. The company will review all assays and determine next steps. Including the selection of multiple drill targets." QA/QC Statement Samples were submitted to ALS Laboratories in Sodankyla Finland. ALS inserted internal standards, blanks and pulp duplicates within each sample batch as part of their own internal monitoring of quality control protocols. Grit Metals monitors precision and bias performance by inserting certified lithium standards (CDN-LI-01 and GTA-05) as well as blanks into each batch submitted to ALS at a rate of 1:20. The major element oxides and trace elements including Li, Cs, Ta and Be were analysed by ALS analytical package ME-MS89L involving digestion by Na2O2 fusion followed by ALS's super trace ICP-MS methodology. QAQC results to date do not indicate any analytical accuracy issues with all standards returning values Li values within 3 standard deviations of their certified mean and blanks returning expected values. Mike Basha, P.Eng., P.Geo. (NL), VP Exploration of Grit Metals Corp., a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has prepared this press release and compiled the results discussed herein. About Grit Metals Corp. Grit Metals Corp. is a junior mining company currently focussed on the Lithium-Cesium-Tantalum Finnish Pegmatite Project in central Finland. Governing bodies in Europe and Finland are legislating environmentally friendly and energy independent laws and policies. One of the key components is access to REE and, specifically, lithium. The company's exploration licenses are located within 1 kms of the Keliber mine and production complex, currently under construction and expected to begin production in H2 2025. An estimated 600 million investment by Keliber's parent company Sibanye-Stillwater Limited (NYSE: SBSW) in partnership with the Finnish Minerals Group (www.mineralsgroup.fi) is underway in the Kautinen Region and will see the development of open-pit and underground mining from several deposits, construction of a central spodumene concentrator plant and a lithium hydroxide chemical plant at tidewater in Kokkola. When completed, this complex will comprise a complete hard-rock spodumene pegmatite lithium supply chain (source: www.sibanyestillwater.com). The Company also has several 100 percent owned precious metals projects in Northern Finland. They are located in the Paleo-Proterozoic Greenstone Terrane of Northern Finland comprised of multiple greenstone belts including the CLGB which hosts world-class gold (eg Kittila Deposit, owned by Agnico Eagle and Ikkari Deposit, owned by Rupert Resources) and base metal deposits (eg Kevitsa owned by Boliden and Sakatti owned by Aglo-American). The belt's potential is also suggested by the presence of several major mining companies in the belt. The belt has very recently garnered significant interest following an offer from Rupert Resources to buy B2Gold's 70% interest in a Joint Venture between B2Gold and Aurion Resources which lies adjacent to Ruperts Ikkari Deposit, for $102 million. The joint venture ground is strategic to Ruperts proposed development of the Ikkari Deposit but is also host to numerous gold prospects along a structural corridor that extends >125 km. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary 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 future results of operations, performance and achievements of the Company, including the presence of lithium mineralization at, and the exploration and development potential of, the Finland Pegmatite Project. 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 costs of any anticipated work programs and the ability to fund such costs, required approvals in connection with any work programs and the ability to obtain such approvals, risks inherent in exploration 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. TORONTO, Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Forsys Metals Corp. (TSX: FSY) (FSE: F2T) (NSX: FSY) (Forsys or the Company) is pleased to announce that its wholly-owned subsidiary Valencia Uranium (Pty) (Valencia Uranium) has finalised an agreement with Namibplaas Guestfarm and Tours (Proprietory) Limited (the Farm Owner) for the purchase of Portion-1 of farm Namibplaas No. 93 (the Property), at the Companys Norasa Uranium project (Norasa1). The Property hosts the Namibplaas uranium deposit (Namibplaas), under Exclusive Prospecting Licence (EPL-3638) The purchase of this Property is the final outcome of lengthy negotiations for the economic terms for access rights with the previous farm owner. EPL-3638 covers a total surface area of 1,266 ha; with approximately 93 % (1,179 ha) located on the Property, which measures approximately 6,700 hectares (ha). Figure-1 (below) provides an overview of the Property, the Companys mineral licence holding and applications, exclusive use area and planned and existing linear infrastructure. EPL-3638 is situated less than 3 km to the northeast of the Valencia deposit (ML-149) and is accessed via a newly constructed industrial grade road from the B2 highway to the Valencia project site followed by a track suitable for 4x4 vehicles. For detailed information on the recent updated Mineral Resource Estimate for Norasa, please refer to the Companys news release dated 14 May 2024. Planning is underway for diamond and reverse circulation drilling designed to expand and upgrade the resource within the Namibplaas main deposit and from adjacent targets. The Company has also applied for additional exclusive prospecting ground, EPL-10501 and EPL-8633. Approximately 237 ha, (42 %) of the EPL-10501 application area and 239 ha,(5%) of EPL- 9865 are are also located on the Property. For further detail, see Figure-1 below. 1 The Norasa Uranium Project (Norasa) is wholly owned by the Companys 100% subsidiary Valencia Uranium (Pty) Ltd. (Valencia Uranium) and comprises the Valencia uranium deposits (held under ML-149) ("Valencia) and the Namibplaas uranium deposit (under EPL-3638) (Namibplaas), located in the Erongo region of Namibia. On farm Valencia No.122, ML-149, the companys interest including its planned access works area for the mines infrastructure, are covered by an exclusive use contract over approximately 3,346 ha. The contract with this land owner is valid for the duration of ML-149, which extends until 2033. Figure-1: Overview map showing the transaction property, Valencia mineral licence holdings and applications and linear infrastructure Key Terms of the Land Purchase Agreement Under the terms of the agreement Valencia Uranium will pay the Farm Owner an aggregate amount of 24 million Namibia Dollars (NAD) (approximately US$1,282k). An initial payment of NAD 7 million (approximately US$374k) will be made once all conditions have been met, with the remaining NAD 17 million (approximately US$908k) payable in monthly installments over a ten year period, accruing interest at Namibias prime lending rate 2 plus 2% per annum from the date of title transfer following regulatory approval. The signing of the agreement was 17th December 2024. The transaction remains subject to the receipt of all regulatory approvals, including, without limitation, the approval of the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Lands and Resettlement. Mark Frewin, Forsys CEO commented: The acquisition of farm Namibplaas, Portion-1 means that the Company now has unfettered access to the Namibplaas licence area, adding significant value and flexibility to our mine development strategy. The plan is to prioritize a drill program on Namibplaas as soon as possible and continue to expand and upgrade the total uranium resources to support the overall Norasa mine development. 2 10.75% per Bank of Namibia About Forsys Metals Corp. Forsys Metals Corp. (TSX: FSY, FSE: F2T, NSX: FSY) is an emerging uranium developer focused on advancing its wholly owned Norasa Uranium Project, located in the politically and uranium friendly jurisdiction of Namibia, Africa. The Norasa Uranium Project is comprised of the Valencia Uranium deposit (ML-149) and the nearby Namibplaas Uranium deposit (EPL-3638). Further information is available at the Company website www.forsysmetals.com. On behalf of the Board of Directors of Forsys Metals Corp. Richard Parkhouse, Investor Relations. For additional information please contact: Richard Parkhouse, Investor Relations email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Forward Looking Statement Certain information contained in this press release constitutes "forward-looking information", within the meaning of Canadian legislation. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur", "be achieved" or "has the potential to". Forward looking statements contained in this press release are qualified in their entirety by the inherent risks and uncertainties surrounding future expectations. Among those factors which could cause actual results to differ materially are the following: market conditions and other risk factors listed from time to time in our reports filed with Canadian securities regulators on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made as of the date of this press release and Forsys Metals Corp disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable securities legislation. Ottawa, ON TheNewswire - January 06, 2025 Focus Graphite Inc. (Focus or the Company) (TSX-V: FMS; OTCQX: FCSMF; FSE: FKC), a technology-oriented graphite development company, is pleased to announce the appointment of Dean Hanisch as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective January 6th 2025. This leadership change marks a significant milestone in Focus Graphites journey as the Company transitions to a new phase of growth and value realization. Dean Hanisch brings a wealth of experience in strategic deal-making and business development, with a proven track record of forging impactful collaborations and partnerships across multiple industries. Jeff York commented Deans mandate is clear: to build on the Companys decade-long efforts in creating a high-grade, and high-purity graphite deposit at Lac Knife, and to take Focus Graphite forward into the global marketplace by monetizing its advanced materials and technologies. Dean Hanisch commented: Focus Graphite is well positioned to actively participate in this green revolution and will look to benefit from North Americas strategy of lessening its dependency on foreign controlled critical minerals. Over the past decade, an incredible foundation has been laid through years of dedication, innovation, and perseverance. Our Lac Knife deposit is a high-grade and purity graphite deposit supported by our proprietary green processing technologies. It is now time to harness this potential and deliver tangible value by forming strategic collaborations with industry leaders and end-users who recognize the quality of our advanced materials specifically for Military and Defence applications. The Company also wishes to extend its heartfelt thanks to Marc Roy, who has served as CEO over the past four years. Under Marcs leadership, Focus Graphite built on advancing key projects and strengthened its position as a leading player in the graphite industry. The Board of Directors and entire Focus Graphite team express their gratitude for Marcs dedication and contributions during his tenure. Marc will remain on the Board of Directors and assist in the transition. Marc Roy commented Id like to thank the team as well as the board for their tireless effort, support and dedication. Dean is the ideal candidate to take this company to the next level and I will support him in every way possible. About Focus Graphite Inc. Focus Graphite Inc. is an advanced materials company developing sustainable mining and technology innovations. At the heart of our operations is the Lac Knife flake graphite deposit, known for its exceptional high purity and gradeideal for applications in the military, defense, and green energy revolutions. Currently advancing through Canadas mine permitting process, Focus Graphite is on the verge of transforming this resource into a cornerstone for critical mineral supply. Our proprietary, environmentally sustainable processing technologies ensure a green, chemical-free pathway from mine to market. The Companys proprietary silicon-enhanced spheroidized graphite patent technology is aimed at improving battery performance. We specialize in producing advanced, high-purity graphite materials tailored for diverse industries, including EV batteries, military applications, and high-tech manufacturing. Focus Graphites commitment extends beyond resource extractionwe are actively building partnerships with industry leaders, academic institutions, and government bodies to accelerate the commercialization of advanced materials and technologies derived from our flagship project. As a proud Canadian company, we are dedicated to contributing to North Americas secure and sustainable critical minerals supply chain. For more information about Focus Graphite, please visit http://www.focusgraphite.com. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / January 6, 2025 /Skeena Resources Limited (TSX:SKE) (NYSE:SKE) ("Skeena Gold & Silver", "Skeena" or the "Company") collected US$45 million of gold stream funding on December 30, 2024 under its gold stream arrangement, as outlined in the Company's news release dated June 25, 2024 (the "Gold Stream Arrangement"). Skeena is also pleased to report continued advancement on numerous authorizations from the Province of British Columbia to support ongoing activity at the Company's 100%-owned Eskay Creek Gold-Silver Project ("Eskay" or the "Project"). To date, the Company has successfully advanced various pre-construction activities as part of the early works program. Randy Reichert, President & Chief Executive Officer of Skeena, commented: "The current tranche of the gold stream financing will enable Skeena to continue advancing the Project, with further drawdowns anticipated throughout 2025. We are encouraged by the supportive and constructive dialogue with the Province of British Columbia, which has helped facilitate early works activities in 2024. As a result, we are progressing with our pre-development plans and proactively de-risking the Project to stay on track for production in 2027." US$45 Million Payment Under Gold Stream Arrangement Skeena Gold & Silver has collected the second tranche of US$45 million under the Gold Stream Arrangement. This is the second of five tranches under the previously announced US$200 million gold stream, whereby the funds were made available following receipt of the Bulk Technical Sample permits in December and the satisfaction of certain other customary conditions (see news release dated December 16, 2024). The remaining three tranches will be drawn in settlements of US$50 million, subject to the satisfaction of certain customary conditions before March 31, 2026 to support continued development of the Project. Skeena is entitled to a buyback provision to reduce the stream percentage by 66.67% by repaying the proportional deposit plus an imputed 18% IRR, for a period of 12 months following the Project completion date. The buyback provision provides the Company with flexibility and optionality to strengthen future cashflows should gold prices continue to rise, while ensuring certainty of funding in the capital-intensive development period. 2024 Early Works Review In June 2024, Skeena Gold & Silver received approval for an amendment to the Mines Act permit M-197 from the Province of British Columbia, which allowed for early works activities at Eskay Creek. The approval of this permit was the first step required to facilitate the commencement of a Technical Sample Quarry and land clearing work to begin. During the 2024 season from June to November, activities included: Access to the technical sample area and clearing of the area was completed in the summer using smaller equipment. This preparation will enable the use of larger, more efficient equipment in the summer of 2025, to facilitate further advancements in the development of the technical sample quarry. Two Pilot haul roads were advanced: one connecting to the Tom Mackay Tailings Storage Facility and the other providing access to the infrastructure pad area. Advancement of the infrastructure pad area, with bulk earthworks efficiently self-performed by the skilled project development team on-site. Commencement of civil earthworks for the Volcano Creek substation (237kV tie-in) to interconnect with Coast Mountain Hydro to supply future hydro-sourced electricity to the project. Concurrent with project activities onsite, engineering and procurement is progressing well and on budget with the estimates outlined in the 2023 Definitive Feasibility Study. Most of the major mill equipment has been contracted including the building structural steel and installation, SAG/ball mills, tertiary/regrind mills, jaw crusher, flotation cells, concentrate thickener, concentrate dryer, and transformers and the circuit breakers. Long lead-time items such as electrical components have also been secured. Other critical contracts continue to advance including the selection of a mobile mining fleet supplier. About Skeena Skeena is a leading precious metals developer that is focused on advancing the Eskay Creek Gold-Silver Project - a past producing mine located in the renowned Golden Triangle in British Columbia, Canada. Eskay Creek will be one of the highest-grade and lowest cost open-pit precious metals mines in the world, with substantial silver by-product production that surpasses many primary silver mines. Skeena is committed to sustainable mining practices and maximizing the potential of its mineral resources. In partnership with the Tahltan Nation, Skeena strives to foster positive relationships with Indigenous communities while delivering long-term value and sustainable growth for its stakeholders. On behalf of the Board of Directors of Skeena Gold & Silver, Walter Coles Executive Chairman Randy Reichert President & CEO Contact Information Investor Inquiries: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Office Phone: +1 604 684 8725 Company Website: www.skeenagoldsilver.com Qualified Persons In accordance with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, Paul Geddes, P.Geo., Senior Vice President, Exploration & Resource Development, is the Qualified Person for the Company and has prepared, validated, and approved the technical and scientific statements and information contained or incorporated by reference in the news release. The Company strictly adheres to CIM Best Practices Guidelines in conducting, documenting, and reporting the exploration activities on its projects. Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements Certain statements and information contained or incorporated by reference in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). These statements relate to future events or our future performance. The use of words such as "anticipates", "believes", "proposes", "contemplates", "generates", "targets", "is projected", "is planned", "considers", "estimates", "expects", "is expected", "potential" and similar expressions, or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "might", "will", "could", or "would" be taken, achieved, or occur, may identify forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. Specific forward-looking statements contained herein include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the progress of development at Eskay, including the construction budget, schedule and required funding in respect thereof; the timing for and the Company's progress towards commencement of commercial production; the Company's capital structure; the Company's ability to buy back the gold stream in the future; amounts drawn and the timing of and completion of conditions precedent in respect of the Senior Secured Loan, gold stream agreement, additional equity investment and the cost over-run facility, the availability of the Senior Secured Loan as a source of future liquidity; and the results of the Definitive Feasibility Study, processing capacity of the mine, anticipated mine life, probable reserves, estimated project capital and operating costs, sustaining costs, results of test work and studies, planned environmental assessments, the future price of metals, metal concentrate, and future exploration and development. Such forward-looking statements are based on material factors and/or assumptions which include, but are not limited to, the estimation of mineral resources and reserves, the realization of resource and reserve estimates, metal prices, taxation, the estimation, timing and amount of future exploration and development, capital and operating costs, the availability of financing, the receipt of regulatory approvals, environmental risks, title disputes and the assumptions set forth herein and in the Company's MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2023, its most recently filed interim MD&A, and the Company's Annual Information Form ("AIF") dated March 28, 2024. Such forward-looking statements represent the Company's management expectations, estimates and projections regarding future events or circumstances on the date the statements are made, and are necessarily based on several estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company as of the date hereof, are not guarantees of future performance. Actual events and results may differ materially from those described herein, and are subject to significant operational, business, economic, and regulatory risks and uncertainties. The risks and uncertainties that may affect the forward-looking statements in this news release include, among others: the inherent risks involved in exploration and development of mineral properties, including permitting and other government approvals; changes in economic conditions, including changes in the price of gold and other key variables; changes in mine plans and other factors, including accidents, equipment breakdown, bad weather and other project execution delays, many of which are beyond the control of the Company; environmental risks and unanticipated reclamation expenses; and other risk factors identified in the Company's MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2023, its most recently filed interim MD&A, the AIF dated March 28, 2024, the Company's short form base shelf prospectus dated January 31, 2023, and in the Company's other periodic filings with securities and regulatory authorities in Canada and the United States that are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca or on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Readers should not place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and the Company does not undertake any obligations to update and/or revise any forward-looking statements except as required by applicable securities laws. Ayachi Hammami, former minister for human rights, is one of the fourteen lawyers on Sihem Bensedrines defence committee. Their commitment to rights and freedoms during the regime of president Ben Ali (1987-2011) had already brought together the former journalist - who became the president of the Truth and Dignity Commission (IVD) between 2014 and 2018 - and the man of law from the Tunisian political Left. But what seems to have reunited them was Hammamis publication of the IVDs final report on 24 June 2020, while he was part of Elyes Fakfakhs short-lived government, which lasted only six months. Sihem Bensedrines imprisonment [on 1 August 2024] is one of a series of violations committed as a result of the authoritarian drift of the current power. Her imprisonment is part of the wave of abusive arrests that has affected journalists, influential figures, politicians, human rights defenders, civil society activists and young, ordinary and anonymous users of social networks in recent months, says the lawyer. The former minister points out that he himself has been banned from leaving the country and is not allowed to appear in public. On 10 October 2023, he appeared before the anti-terrorist judicial unit in the so-called case of conspiracy against state security, which involves some fifty defendants, mainly politicians, six of whom have been locked up since February 2023. Earlier, on 10 January 2023, Hammami had appeared before an investigative magistrate following a defamation suit by the minister of Justice for criticising her work. But neither the sword of Damocles of going to jail nor the ban on public appearance - an impossible measure to apply! Since leaving my home would be tantamount to overriding the judges decision - prevents him from continuing to fight for the freedom of the former chair of the Truth Commission. A judicial soap opera starting in 2019 Bensedrine has been detained for nearly six months on a single charge, which is not new: she is accused of having falsified the IVDs final report in exchange for money. The case, which Justice Info reported on at length in this article, dates back to 26 March 2019, when the voluminous document of nearly 2,000 pages was published on the Commissions official website. Thats when Ibtihel Abdellatif, former chair of the Womens Commission at the IVD, claimed in the media that the version of the document that the IVD considered as authentic was different from the one sent to the Tunisian president Beji Caied Essebsi (2014-2019) on 31 December 2018. In March 2021, Bensedrine was heard as a witness by the financial crimes central unit of the National Guard. But the accusations and attacks from several politicians and journalists intensified. Seized by the national anti-corruption body, the prosecutors office opened a judicial investigation against Bensedrine. The case was not pursued until two years later: on 7 March 2023, Bensedrine posted a message on her Facebook page informing the public that five days earlier, she had been summoned by the judicial unit on economic and financial matters. She added that she had been served with a ban on leaving the country and that the judge had charged her with gaining unfair advantage for herself and a third party, causing damage to the State and falsifying the final report. The case concerned in this controversial part of the report has been investigated and transferred by the IVD to the courts. Twenty-three senior government officials and businessmen are being prosecuted for influence peddling, embezzlement, abuse of position and breach of trust in the management of public funds. To this day, these senior officials and businessmen suspected of misappropriating public funds, some of whom are still in office, remain unpunished, say the four lawyers present at the press conference organised in Tunis on 4 December by Bensedrines defence committee. In addition, the 2018 draft was unfinished, and commission members were expected to edit the draft in January 2019, as confirmed in commission minutes reviewed by Human Rights Watch, said the NGO in a statement calling for Bensedrines release on 30 September 2024. What risk does Bensedrine represent? There is no legal justification for issuing a detention warrant against Sihem Bensedrine: she poses no danger to the State or to herself, nor can she intervene in the course of the case since the IVDs final report, which is the subject of the dispute between her and the courts, has already been published in the Official Journal, says Hammami. In a press release dated 4 December 2024 and called The authorities persist in sequestering transitional justice, Bensedrines defence committee asked for the immediate release of the former president of the IVD and the cancellation of the legal proceedings which target her, in violation of the legal guarantees ensuring the immunity of the members of the IVD and its agents in the exercise of their mission. Committee member Abderraouf Ayadi, a former member of the National Constituent Assembly (2011-2014) and former political prisoner under Ben Ali, explains: I asked the judge in charge of the case to which category of risk he was referring to in placing Bensedrine in pre-trial detention. He refused to answer. Around the world, justice is guaranteed by two pillars: the presumption of innocence and an independent judiciary. These two principles are lacking here. The political nature of this affair is obvious. In reality, the former President of the Commission is being prosecuted for having carried out her mission till the end within the framework of transitional justice and revealed the truth about the mechanisms of repression. During the press conference, Bensedrines defence committee pointed out that the judge who had conducted the investigations had decided to keep her free. However, this judge was transferred in April 2024 to the court of Jendouba (northwestern Tunisia), a move that took place outside the annual transfers of magistrates. We have learned that he is currently sanctioned by being banned from sitting on the bench, notes Fethi Rebii. For example, the detention warrant issued against her on 1 August 2024, with unusual speed, in the absence of any new evidence to justify it, was issued by a judge who was an acting investigating magistrate, according to the committee. Two requests for release denied On 8 August 2024, three United Nations experts issued a statement saying that Bensedrines arrest could amount to judicial harassment of Ms Bensedrine for the work she has undertaken as president of the IVD and that it appears to be aimed at discrediting information contained in the Commissions report which could give rise to legal proceedings against alleged perpetrators of corruption under the previous regimes. The case is still under investigation and, in Tunisia, pre-trial detention can last up to fourteen months. To date, his lawyers have been refused two requests for her release. While in prison, Bensedrine, now aged 74, underwent a thorough tax audit, which did not reveal any suspicious transactions or movements in her bank account, according to her lawyers. Bensedrines detention coincides with the complete suspension of the specialised chambers charged to try criminal cases that came out of the IVD investigations. Remaining incomplete since the new judicial season in September 2024, the chambers are forbidden to sit. We are convinced that one day, perhaps in the long term, the transitional justice process will resume and the government will implement the recommendations of the Truth Commissions report. We hope that day will come while we are still alive, says Hammami with a smile. Feature: A Confucius Institute director's mission of promoting Chinese culture Xinhua) 11:06, January 06, 2025 ZAGREB, Jan. 5 (Xinhua) -- Kresimir Jurak, director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Zagreb, has a clear mission: to promote Chinese culture in Croatia and foster greater exchanges and understanding between the two countries. A well-known expert on China in Croatia, Jurak has extensive experience living and studying in China. With more than 40 visits and nearly three years of studying in the country, he has gained a deep understanding of Chinese culture. Before becoming the director of the Confucius Institute in May 2012, Jurak taught Chinese history at the University of Zagreb's Sinology Department. Jurak has told Xinhua recently that he was proud that the Confucius Institute has become a leading brand for promoting Chinese language and culture. Now the Institute has more than 45 teaching locations in eight cities across Croatia with 32 teachers and it used to be the biggest Confucius Institute in Europe. Since its founding in 2012, the Institute has reached tens of thousands of Croatian students through its Chinese language programs and has engaged hundreds of thousands more through cultural initiatives, such as the Chinese Bridge competition, a Chinese language proficiency competition, the Dragon Boat race, and various workshops on Chinese culture. "I think we help bring Chinese culture to Croatia, but also build bridges between Croatia and China in many areas," he said. Jurak also emphasizes the importance of the Institute's mission to foster deeper cultural exchanges and mutual understanding. Many of the world's problems arise from ignorance and misunderstanding, he said. "For me, connecting people, cultures, and languages is essential. The more we understand each other, the better friends we become. And friends don't fight; they don't need wars. We need friendship more than ever." Looking ahead, Jurak said the Institute will focus on digital transformation and organize more high-level Chinese cultural events in Croatia. It plans to incorporate Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) into its Chinese language programs, enhancing the learning experience. Additionally, Jurak sees an opportunity in the tourism sector by helping Croatia's tourism professionals attract more Chinese visitors, tapping into China's enormous outbound travel market. "There are a lot of opportunities for the future development of the Confucius Institute," Jurak noted. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form Monday, January 6, 2025 - A Kenyan lady who previously made news headlines when she claimed flamboyant Nigerian businessman Cubana Chief Priest is the father of her son, has come out to cry for help. The distressed lady, identified as Hellen, posted a heartbreaking video narrating her woes after the flashy Nigerian man abandoned her and their son. She is currently homeless and living from hand to mouth as her baby daddy displays a lavish lifestyle on Instagram, where he has 5.4 million followers. In the video that Hellen posted, she is seen complaining that Cubana blocked her on WhatsApp and cut communication, leaving her to take care of their son single-handedly. The young boy, a carbon copy of the businessman, is unable to attend school due to a lack of fees. They live in a temporary structure under deplorable conditions. Watch the video. Cubana ChiefPriest's alleged baby mama calls him out, reveals she and their 2-year-old son are homeless, and that the boy isn't going to school pic.twitter.com/JtEEOLHhlU TENIOLA (@Teeniiola) January 5, 2025 Cubana lives large as his son suffers in Kenya. See photos. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Monday, January 6, 2025 - Controversial Zimbabwean businessman and socialite Wicknell Chivayo, visits Kenya, and meets President William Ruto. Who is Wicknell Chivayo? Wicknell Chivayo, also known as 'Sir Wicknell', is a Zimbabwean businessman and socialite known for his controversial rise to wealth and subsequent involvement in high-profile corruption scandals. With businesses spread across South African states, the businessman has gained notoriety for his lavish lifestyle and connections to influential figures in Zimbabwean politics, including the country's current president, Emmerson Mnangagwa. In 2017 the Zimbabwean Parliament probed Chivayo's electricity power contracts that included a $200 million power contracts that had an accumulated value in excess of $600 million, of which none were ever delivered. In 2024, a printing firm linked to Chivayo, based in South Africa, was being investigated by Zimbabwe's anti-corruption authority for price gouging on election-related material and equipment. It is alleged that the printing firm, Ren-Form, inflated the price of ballot papers and billed the country over $30 million. In addition, the businessman has been convicted multiple times for financial crimes such as money laundering, including in December 2017, when Chivayo was arrested over a $5 million contract in Zimbabwe. In addition, the businessman has been convicted multiple times for financial crimes such as money laundering, including in December 2017, when Chivayo was arrested over a $5 million contract in Zimbabwe. While visiting Kenya, the businessman says he had a good time with President Ruto and learnt leadership skills from the head of state. He says Kenya will become his second home. Via Boniface Mwangi. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Monday, January 6, 2025 - Religious leaders have united in calling for the immediate resignation of Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and Director of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Amin Mohammed over the abductions of young people. Speaking on separate occasions yesterday, the clergy faulted security agencies for their silence over abductions that have left the country reeling in fear and suspense as the fate of some of the abductees remains unknown. Led by Catholic Archbishop Philip Anyolo, the church leaders warned the IG of the police and the DCI boss to step up their measures and produce the abducted young people, or they should resign immediately. The government should ensure that the family of every Kenyan is protected so that we can have peaceful lives in our society, Catholic Archbishop Phillip Anyolo reasoned. The men of the cloth also condemned the abductions, terming them as backward and a violation of fundamental human rights as enshrined in the Constitution of Kenya. As a church, we are appealing for the government to produce the young people because the government has the tools to research. And if there is a crime from any corner involving any Kenyan, the government ought to provide dignity and all means possible to secure that life, Bishop Alfred Rotich stated. In effect, the leaders want security agencies to conduct thorough investigations and establish the whereabouts of the abductees. We are, as a church, asking for a full investigation and a detailed report as to who kidnapped these young people and who killed them, Evans Omollo, a church leader, demanded. Failure to provide that information to the Kenyan people, we ask the inspector general of police to resign from his role, he added. The Kenyan DAILY POST Monday, January 6, 2025 Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has received overwhelming support from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for exposing President William Rutos government over abductions. This comes a few days after Natembeya made bold remarks during Speaker Moses Wetangulas mothers funeral, urging Ruto to end the abductions of youths currently plaguing the nation. Taking to social media, Gachagua lauded the Governor and urged him not to listen to naysayers and instead keep fighting for the residents of Trans Nzoia County. My dear brother Governor Natembeya, please do not let the court poets and masters of platitude distract you from the work you are doing of delivering to the people of Trans-Nzoia County, he wrote. These Court Jesters are on the misguided assignment of providing comic relief to their master. And do not be cowed from speaking out on behalf of the people of Kenya when necessary. He further suggested that the backlash the Governor was facing was a result of the impact he was having by speaking the truth. To this end, Gachagua urged Natembeya to keep up the good work and not be cowed by any rants and tirades being thrown at him. My prayer is that you will continue to do so, and to unite your people and protect their dignity and political pride, he added. This unity, I assure you, will ensure that your peoples interests are always front and centre of the focus of any administration. May God continue to be with you. Natembeya made audacious remarks at the said burial to the President regarding the abductions that attracted a barrage of criticism from several other political leaders. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Monday, January 6, 2025 - The internet has erupted after President William Ruto hosted controversial Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo at his Sugoi home on Sunday afternoon. The shrewd businessman is in the country for a business trip. Last year, he was linked to a US$40 million corruption elections tender deal. Chivayo went on a spending spree after receiving money from the corrupt US$40 million Zimbabwe Electoral Commission tender deal. He bought two Maybachs in one week and bragged that the money was just a little change. He is fond of parading his lavish lifestyle on social media, which is funded by proceeds of corruption, fraud, and money laundering. See photos of his lavish lifestyle. Ruto hosted him in Sugoi. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Monday, January 6, 2025 - Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir SingOei has opposed the ongoing calls to extend the presidential term limit, emphasizing the importance of upholding Kenyas constitutional and political framework. In a statement on Monday, SingOei stated that extending the presidential term beyond the two terms provided for by the constitution is incompatible with the countrys democratic principles. He further underscored that any efforts to subvert the constitutional order through regime change, regardless of the guise, should not be tolerated. Third termism is incompatible with our constitutional and political order. So is regime change in all its guises. Both mustnt be tolerated, SingOei said. SingOeis statement comes at a time when a section of President William Rutos allies have been pushing for the extension of his rule beyond the two five-year terms stipulated in the 2010 constitution. On Sunday, Tiaty Member of Parliament William Kamket chided those bashing President Rutos administration, threatening to push for reforms to extend his term to 24 years in line with the late former President Daniel Arap Mois rule. The Second-time lawmaker scoffed at those downplaying the Kenya Kwanza governments achievements, insisting President Rutos victory in the last general election was the will of the people. He exuded confidence that the head of state will secure a second term despite sharp criticism from certain quarters. People should stop the pride. You are a President rightfully elected, sit on that seat well. The second term you will be elected, and you will bounce back like electricity, Kamket noted. The Kenyan DAILY POST Monday, January 6, 2025 - Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has opened up about the reason behind his unprecedented impeachment. Speaking at the Tetu Catholic Church, Gachagua revealed that his nature of speaking the truth and confronting the president against lying to Kenyans cost him his job. "In the first year, I thought we were speaking from the same page until I realised it was all lies. We come to Ruring'u and promise we will complete the stadium, it is now two years, and nothing has been done. There are no roads, no water, no medicine in the hospitals, and our job is lying to Kenyans daily," Gachagua opened up. According to Gachagua, he warned the president against the habit of promising and not fulfilling the promise, and this was the last nail in the coffin that sealed his impeachment plan. "I warned my boss that we should stop lying to Kenyans. That's when the plan to push me out began for saying the truth," the former DP revealed. Speaking during the service, Gachagua hailed the Catholic bishops for refusing to remain silent, speaking the truth, and standing for the right. Catholic Bishops have been at the forefront of criticizing the Kenya Kwanza government. "We thank our Bishops for speaking for the people of Kenya. When everybody has been silent, the church remains the conscience of the nation, and I'd like to encourage you to continue speaking," the former DP stated. Since he was ejected from the government, Gachagua has started the trend of criticizing it, asking for accountability on major issues affecting Kenyans, including the cases of forced disappearances. The Kenyan DAILY POST Monday, January 6, 2025 - Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has warned President William Ruto to stop forcing the Mt Kenya electorate to rally behind him. Speaking yesterday, Gachagua claimed Ruto was out to employ tactics used by the late Daniel Moi's regime to subdue dissenting constituencies and intimidate them into supporting him. He alleged that the Moi regime used an infamous gang to terrorize the region into submission. According to him, another gang of this nature was already out to bulldoze the government's will and policies on an already withdrawn electorate of Mount Kenya. Gachagua seemed to reference the apparent comeback of Maina Njenga in the politics of Mt Kenya. This is after it emerged that Ruto had contracted Maina Njenga to influence the region to support the regime. However, Gachagua advised Ruto against such moves, suggesting they would be counter-productive. "History is repeating itself; when the people of this region started saying no, a criminal gang was formed to punish the people because they were saying no to bad governance. The leader of that gang was recently here. The gang descended on the people of this region with brutal efficiency. They beheaded people and exploited our people and caused chaos," said Gachagua. The former deputy president asserted that the government was uncomfortable with the citizenry becoming wary of the regime's shortcomings. He added that the gang idea had been conceived to instill fear among the citizens and discourage them from speaking the truth to the holders of power. Gachagua claimed the gang had the blessing of the government and was already moving across Mt Kenya, disturbing residents. According to him, police had been instructed to watch from a distance as the group carried out its activities. The Kenyan DAILY POST Monday, January 6, 2025 - Suna East MP Junet Mohamed has told off Kenyans and leaders pushing for the removal of President William Ruto from office before 2027 for allegedly messing up the country. In a statement, the National Assembly Minority Leader acknowledged that some Kenyans had approached him with plans to impeach the President. In response, he called on those behind the push to allow the current administration to serve for five years as was envisioned in the 2010 Constitution. "What has surprised me is that one year after the elections, people who made a conscious decision to elect a candidate for five good years have been coming to me asking that I help them remove that person from office. I cannot do that job for now. We will wait for another election, he stated. Some come to me with strange stories. Stories about Zakayo the Tax Collector and Kasongo, let us wait for 2027. Additionally, he indicated that the minority side did not want anything to do with the plans. He reiterated that they were focused on the AU elections where Raila Odinga is contesting for the Commission's chairperson seat. "Our country is a country of constitutional democracy. We have a constitution which dictates how we conduct ourselves. As a constitutional democracy, our elections are held after five years," the lawmaker added. We as the Minority in the National Assembly know our work. We are supposed to fight for the rights of the people through constitutional means. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Monday, January 6, 2025 - Tiaty Member of Parliament William Kamket has warned members of the Kikuyu community, led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, against frustrating President William Ruto. Since his impeachment last year, Gachagua and members of his community have been attacking and threatening President William Ruto and his close advisors. They have also warned Ruto that he will serve only one term as President. Speaking on Sunday, Kamket dismissed those threatening the Head of State, stating that as MPs, they have the power to pass legislation that could allow Ruto to rule indefinitely. If they joke, you know I come from the county of 24 years. "Baringo County we know about 24 years, we know to manufacture a president to survive for 24 years. "If they joke, if they joke we can tell you to extend past the two terms, he noted. The Tiaty lawmaker further castigated those accusing the government of state-sponsored abductions, led by Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, accusing him of abetting extrajudicial killings in the previous regime and fueling the unending insecurity in Kerio Valley. Kamket lauded the government for silencing the guns in the North Rift which has been a troubled region since the KANU era by putting in place requisite measures to restore normalcy. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Monday, January 6, 2025 - Controversial city car dealer Khalif Kairo is reportedly in financial turmoil after he was accused of fraud, forcing him to close his yards after losing clients. Kairo had two yards which were strategically located at Diamond Plaza, Parklands, and Kiambu Road. Both yards are empty, barely a month after he was arrested and taken to Kasarani police station for allegedly conning several clients. An X user visited Kairos car yard at Diamond Plaza and found it empty. He opened the yard last year to specialize in high-end vehicles. See photos. Kairo opened the yard in March. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Monday, January 6, 2025 - Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has dismissed an alleged fallout between him and his boss, President William Ruto. Speaking on Saturday during the wedding ceremony of Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Mianos son and his bride, Wambui, Kindiki downplayed the speculations, saying he had simply taken a short break. He urged Kenyans to disregard rumours of discord, emphasizing his commitment to supporting President Ruto and the governments development agenda. The Deputy President expressed gratitude to President Ruto for allowing him some time off to recharge. Im left with a few hours. My holiday is coming to an end, therefore I need to enjoy what is left of it. "Ignore everything else completely. Dont fall into the trap of triviality and small issues, Kindiki stated. Adding; We have a business. Im glad that the president allowed me a few days off. I feel so energized and I believe this is the year that we will rally and support the president and take Kenya to the next level. Political grapevine was ripe with the news that Kindiki was missing in action after he was slapped by President Ruto's aide Farouk for refusing to toe the line The Kenyan DAILY POST Monday, January 6, 2025 - Legacy media giants in Kenya continue to grapple with mounting internal turmoil, with Royal Media Services reportedly facing similar challenges to those that have plagued the troubled Standard Media Group. According to a source, tensions within the company have escalated as staff raise concerns over leadership decisions and internal conflicts, with some alleging that key positions are being filled without regard for merit or newsroom harmony. It is said that discontent has grown due to a perceived lack of respect for editorial independence, as certain leaders are accused of undermining the authority of senior staff members. Staff turnover has increased, with numerous journalists reportedly resigning in frustration, citing a lack of support and growing dissatisfaction with the direction of the company. Sources claim that ongoing disputes over editorial direction and personnel management have fueled a sense of frustration, particularly among reporters and editors who feel sidelined in decision-making processes. Reports further suggest that the company's leadership has been grappling with internal dissatisfaction, particularly around the handling of key appointments, leading to a rise in resignations and a growing exodus of experienced staff. "Hello Cyprian, leave alone Rapuro and Standard Group. Linus Kaikai, the Editorial Director of Royal Media Services, is in a tight spot. The owner of the company, the Vice Chair Gathoni Macharia, wants him out. She recently convened a series of meetings with reporters alone, cameramen alone, and news editors and producers alone without the bosses. Kaikai's name featured a lot in all the meetings with reporters and editors, who cited him as a stumbling block. He has been accused of entrenching tribalism at Royal Media Services by pastoralizing the Citizen TV newsroom. Even when job adverts are put out, reporters and editors complained that he is always against shortlisting, and interviews are conducted as a formality. He has been accused of bringing his 'stooges' from other media houses who are even disrespecting editors. On the issue of pastoralists and recruitment, the owner of the company is particularly mad that a majority of reporters at Citizen TV are either Kalenjin, Maasai, their cousins, or Somalis. He was accused of running down Citizen TV, Ramogi TV, and Inooro TV. The owner said she is particularly disturbed by the massive exits she is witnessing at the company. Reporters and editors are leaving in droves from the three stations. As a matter of fact, more than 10 senior journalists have quit Inooro TV in the last 1 year out of frustrations from Kaikai. Editors complained that Kaikai bashes them in front of his stooge reporters and he dictates what will be aired. He was also accused of selling live feed to competing media houses, something that irked Mrs. Gathoni Macharia. During the meeting with reporters, Mrs. Macharia immediately appointed Brenda Wanga as the features editor to revive the features desk that was allegedly killed by Kaikai after Waihiga Mwaura left. Mrs. Gathoni Macharia is particularly mad at Kaikai for his attempts to run down Inooro and Ramogi TV. He has been accused of hiring non-starters in the two stations and never caring about the welfare of the two newsrooms. Editors and reporters from the three stations want him out as yesterday. The meeting with reporters, which Mrs. Macharia christened as a public participation with her employees to identify the root cause of the problem, was held on 17 December 2024. Every reporter was given Ksh. 10,000 for breakfast since she had convened the meeting at 6:45 AM." Via Cyprian Nyakundi. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Monday, January 6, 2025 - Mbeere North Member of Parliament (MP) Geoffrey Ruku has criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for engaging in politics at funerals in the Mt Kenya region. Speaking on Sunday, the MP pointed out that it is pretentious for the former DP to attack leaders while families are solely focused on grieving their loved ones. Ruku explained that Gachagua was only pretending to care after being removed from office in an attempt to seek relevance. Continuing his spiel, MP Ruku described the behaviour as a lack of manners and urged leaders to refrain from politicking during intimate moments such as funerals. Wananachi wanataka kazi iendelee, wanataka kuona kazi ikifanywa na maendeleo, tukitengeza mashule zetu in the required standards. "When the son of our leader Jusin Muturi had gone missing, I stepped out na nikaongea hio maneno and others were quiet including Gachagua, he was completely quiet and he was the deputy president. "When Muguka ilikua inapigwa huyu Gachagua ju kwao hakuna Muguka he was completely quiet, he said. Hatutaki ati wakati watu wetu wanaumia kwa roho ju mtoto wao amekufa, when our brothers and sisters are mourning we are there as leaders stepping on their coffin, shouting at the highest point, that is lack of manners. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Monday, January 6, 2025 - Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has had a change of heart regarding the ongoing abductions. This is after he started blaming President William Rutos government for the abductions contrary to his earlier stance. He petitioned the police to take action on the recent spate of abductions. Recently, Kaluma and others in the ODM party - now supporting President William Ruto's broad-based administration - suggested that the abductees were faking their disappearances. The lawmaker is also on record asserting that the abductees might have overstepped and flouted the accountability demands even as they enjoyed their rights and freedoms. However, Kaluma seemed to fault the state law enforcers for failing to trace the abductees. The MP noted that the failure of the state to apprehend and prosecute the abductors was eroding the citizenry's confidence in the country's security structure. According to him, the government exists to protect its civilians and their properties, now seeming to speak against the string of forcible disappearances. "All governments exist to protect their citizens lives, persons and property. The police is the governments institution for this protection. The failure by the police to find the abductees or to arrest and present a single person involved in those instances of open abductions recorded on camera risks complete erosion and irreversible loss of public confidence in the independent National Police Service and is outright unacceptable! "What happened to the long arm of government (read police)? The state security apparatus should investigate, find, and produce the missing Kenyans quickly," he stated on X. Recently, youths perceived as government critics have disappeared, leaving their families in distress. This comes as the National Police Service (NPS), led by Inspector General Douglas Kanja, denied any involvement by state law enforcers in the forced disappearances. The Kenyan DAILY POST Monday, January 6, 2025 - Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has cautioned leaders against mistaking his quiet demeanor, restraint, and soft-spoken nature for weakness. Speaking during a Thanksgiving service in Embu, Kindiki stated that while he often remains quiet, he is committed to fulfilling Kenya Kwanza's promises to Kenyans and deserves respect. "I don't talk much, that is who I am, sometimes people look at me and wonder how I got here because of how quiet I am. "They look at how I speak and think that I am timid, but that's not the case," the DP lashed out. "Leadership is not about arrogance, voice, and other things, leadership is about delivering, so let us respect each other here. There is a difference between leadership and populism," the DP continued. He pointed out how he was taken for granted when he was the Interior CS and people undermined his ability to combat crime. "They kept on saying I couldn't deal with criminals in Kerio Valley, but today, there is peace in Kerio Valley due to the work I did there," Kindiki affirmed. The DP further revealed that he was not going to change his character and make noise but called for respect on all levels, from leaders to residents. "If you have anger issues, don't bring it to leadership, please, let's respect each other. " I repeat, let's respect each other. I have given you all the respect, but you must also respect me," the DP warned. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Monday, January 6, 2025 -The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is mourning yet again. This is after one of its senior officials was murdered in a shocking incident in Mombasa County. The 48-year-old Aisha Akinyi Abubakar lost her life in a robbery incident after thugs broke into her home in Utange at 3am on Sunday, January 5. The assailants are reported to have attacked her after breaking into her house through a kitchen window. Police reports stated that two suspected robbers broke into Abubakars house in the wee hours and used a knife to attack her and 18-year-old Khasim Hassan. ''They gained access to the house by cutting the grills of the kitchen window while armed with a crowbar and knife,'' the report read in part. The suspects are reported to have cut the official on the head, just above the right eye, and proceeded to inflict wounds on her son's head as well. Police have launched investigations into the incident that is reported to have also left her son with injuries. The son was rushed to a private hospital in Mombasa, where he is currently undergoing treatment. With the authorities yet to release a substantive statement, the matter is expected to generate a lot of public debates, especially on the safety of electoral officials. The incident borders yet other similar cases where an election official was abducted in Embakasi East Constituency during the transition period after the 2022 general elections. The official was later discovered murdered. In 2017, Chris Musando, a top information technology manager at IEBC, was murdered after being abducted in Nairobi. The Kenyan DAILY POST Monday, January 6, 2025 - President William Ruto is on the spot after he hosted controversial Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo at his Sugoi home during his visit to the country. Chivayo shared photos of himself with the head of state on social media, expressing that it was a privilege to be hosted by President Ruto. I had a very rare and extraordinary privilege to pay a courtesy visit to His Excellency the President of the Republic of Kenya Dr. William Ruto and the First Lady Her Excellency Mrs Rachel Ruto at their farm in his hometown. "Meeting one of Africas most distinguished leader was a profound honor and it was inspiring to witness his deep humility and unmatched dedication to his nation, he tweeted. Chivayo has been accused of corruption, fraud, and money laundering in his home country. He was linked to a US$40 million corruption elections tender deal. Last year, the Zimbabwean Anti-Corruption Commission announced its intention to investigate the controversial businessman along with his former business partners for suspected fraud and money laundering. Chivayo went on a spending spree after receiving money from a corrupt US$40 million Zimbabwe Electoral Commission tender deal. He bought two Maybachs, a luxury car brand, in one week, one in Johannesburg for R3.5 million and another in Harare for US$400,000, which he referred to as little change. Chivayos spending habits raised eyebrows, with reports indicating that he spent US$3 million on cars and cash donations. His fleet of luxury cars includes three Maybachs, an unusual sight in Zimbabwe and elsewhere. Kenyans on X have called out the President for associating himself with questionable characters like Chivayo. How did NIS allow such a character to have access to the President?. The Presidency is not a personal property. Our SOVEREIGNTY as Kenyans must be respected. Was the protocol followed or was it ordered from above? an X user wrote. Now scammers have a direct line to the president, another X user wrote. See photos. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Monday, January 6, 2025 - Social media personality Billy Mwangi has been found alive after a search lasting over 15 days. While his abductors are yet to be established, Mwangi was found alive on Monday, January 6, by good samaritans who handed him over to his parents. Upon his arrival, Mwangi was embraced by his mother alongside other family members, marking an end to the long search that saw the National Police Service distance itself from his abduction. Mwangi's abduction sparked protests in Embu with the residents demanding his immediate release. Watch video showing the moment he was reunited with his family. Billy Mwangi is free!!! He is now reunited with his parents at their home in Majengo, Embu town. Apparently Peter Muteti has also been released. pic.twitter.com/TIDZATuyhp SHANKI (@ShankiAustine) January 6, 2025 The Kenyan DAILY POST. Monday, January 6, 2025 - Wicknell Chivayo, the controversial Zimbabwean businessman that Ruto hosted at his Sugoi home on Sunday afternoon landed in Kenya aboard a private jet. He was in the company of his beautiful girlfriend. Chivayo faces corruption, fraud, and money laundering cases in his home country. See photos of his private jet. Ruto hosted him in Sugoi. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Monday, January 6, 2025 - Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has condemned the recent heckling of leaders in Embu during former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's visit. Two days after Gachagua took to Embu, calling out leaders for their silence on abductions, Kindiki on Sunday attended a church service in Kimumu, Mbeere North. In reference to a burial ceremony of former Embu senator Lenny Kivutis son, where the crowd refused to listen to the Presidents speech as a sign of growing discontent, Kindiki accused Gachagua of incitement and warned him against propagating division. "If you have your own issues, dont bring them here. I have given him all the respect, but he must also respect me...," said the DP. Kindiki further blasted Gachagua for sowing divisions among Kenyans without providing practical solutions to the issues at hand. You cant be a leader who listens to the peoples grievances, then cries and complains without offering solutions. All you do is fuel anger and frustration, he said. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Monday, January 6, 2025 - Tiaty MP William Kamket has threatened to extend President William Rutos stay in power to teach his critics a lesson. Speaking during an interdenominational service attended by the President at Kerio Valley, Elgeyo Marakwet, yesterday, Kamket lashed out at those criticizing Ruto, insisting that should they continue the threats, then they could extend his stay on the seat. Kamket, while referencing how former President Daniel Moi stayed in power for 24 years, revealed that they know what it takes to make Ruto go beyond the stipulated term limits. ''I come from that county, Baringo County, where we know what the number 24 years means. We are the ones who know how to manufacture for the President to be on the seat for 24 years,'' Kamket asserted. According to the lawmaker, some leaders have come out to intimidate the President, something that he maintained will also force them to embark on the term extension course. ''If they play, if they play, we can even tell you to go for some additional time," he said. ''There are some funny characters who are trying to disturb this government, and we want to thank Kimani Ichung'wah for speaking for us recently, he added. However, Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi, largely viewed as an insider to the President, dismissed Kamket's pronouncements, saying that the idea was unlawful. According to Sudi, Ruto will exit the office upon the completion of his second term (if reelected) without forcing himself on Kenyans. The Kenyan DAILY POST Monday, January 6, 2025 - Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna is still in shock over speeches delivered by President William Rutos allies during the burial of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula's mother in Kabuchai, Bungoma County. In a statement, Sifuna opined that if Ruto listens to such leaders, he may find himself in more trouble than he realizes. "I was shocked beyond words by some of the speeches here in Bungoma County. If those who spoke are the people he listens to, Ruto is in more trouble than he knows. "Freedom of speech cannot be limited beyond the limitations in Article 33," he said. Sifuna condemned the speeches, calling them a violation of constitutional freedoms and a reflection of the flawed policies of the current administration. "Even that Computer Misuse law those ignorant leaders have cited is unconstitutional. Social media is not the problem. The problem is the policies of this regime that continue to hurt Kenyans. We have started the year on a very bad note," he added. During the burial, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi hit out at government critics, noting that while citizens are allowed to criticize the government, it has limits. He stated that certain criticisms, which he only described as "getting personal", warrant an arrest, and called on law enforcement forces to make arrests of people making such criticisms. On his part, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwah took on Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya for blaming Rutos government over the abductions. The Kenyan DAILY POST SCOIL Bhride, Kilcullen and Scoil Bhride, Lackagh have been named junior and senior county winners respectively of the prestigious national art competition, Someone Like Me. The achievement secures them a place at the national awards ceremony to be held at Dublin City Hall on Tuesday 28 January, where they will join 50 other schools to compete for the much sought-after national senior and junior titles. Now in its ninth year, the Someone Like Me art competition, which is organised by the National Disability Authority, attracted 2,783 entries from national schools across the length and breadth of the country. The competition was created as part of the National Disability Authoritys work to nurture more positive attitudes towards persons with disabilities. To date, it has seen more than 25,000 children take part in lesson plans and pupil activities designed to help them develop an awareness and understanding of visible and non-visible disabilities, drawing on their own personal experiences of disability in a bid to help create a more inclusive society. Congratulating Scoil Bhride National School, Kilcullen and Scoil Bhride Lackagh on being named County Winners, Director of the National Disability Authority, Dr Aideen Hartney said that the number of entries this year is a tribute to the commitment of Irelands primary school teachers, who continue to play an important part helping to create an ever-more inclusive Ireland. This years competition is set against the backdrop of a new Autism Innovation Strategy and work ongoing to develop a new National Disability Strategy. These provide the building blocks for a more inclusive society, where disabled people have equality of opportunity when it comes to participating in cultural, social and economic life and where positive attitudes prevail. The Someone Like Me art competition is an important way of building an acceptance and understanding of all disabilities amongst the primary school community and developing an autism affirming society. Selecting the county winners was not an easy task for the judges and choosing an overall senior and junior winner will be an even harder job. And, while I know it will be an anxious wait for the pupils and teachers to hear which of the 52 county winners will be awarded the national titles, every pupil should be congratulated for their entries and for coming up with ways to include all people within society. The competition, which offers a range of prizes, including 500 each for the senior and junior winning schools, was open to all primary school pupils from junior infants to sixth class and more. Entries ranged from posters and collages to large sculptural installations and videos. Ashley Campbell and Thor Jensen form a unique meeting of musical genres as the duo Campbell/Jensen and they will perform in Cleeres on Friday, January 17. With Ashley coming from the world of country and Americana and Thor having a diverse background from rock to gypsy jazz, they create a fresh sound as a duo. Ashley Campbell, daughter of country legend Glen Campbell began her career playing in her fathers band on several world tours and has found success as a solo artist in the country music scene; most notably with her debut single Remembering which she wrote for her father. Her original music has taken her all over the world, from China to Japan, to the mainstage at Londons O2 Arena to opening for Kris Kristofferson and the Bellamy Brothers. She has also been spotlighted for her banjo playing with Rascal Flatts in the music video for their hit single Banjo. Thor Jensen, a virtuoso guitarist and songwriter from New York has travelled many different roads. From touring the world with Hazmat Modine, playing Americana with Quiet Life opening for the likes of Dr. Dog, Portugal The Man and Shovels and Rope, then onto joining the Stephane Wrembel Band, playing the music of Django Reinhardt, performing at Carnegie Hall and all over the world, all the while immersing himself in New Yorks jazz scene. Ashley and Thor met in late 2021 and have been playing music together ever since. Both being strong instrumentalists in addition to the combination of Thors deep baritone and Ashleys clear as a bell vocals, together they make a one of a kind blend. Ashley and Thor released a cover of the Tom Waits song Long Way Home in June 2022 . In January 2023 Campbell/Jensen hired a cottage on an Island North of Northern Ireland, Turtle Cottage. There they brought in a portable Studio and engineers and recorded Campbell/Jensen debut album. The pair will perform at Cleeres Theatre on January 17 at 8.30pm. Tickets are 20 and are available from www.cleeres.com Justin Trudeau will be seen as one of the great Canadian prime ministers, former Irish premier Leo Varadkar has said. Mr Varadkar was speaking after Mr Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday, saying internal battles mean that he cannot be the best option in the next election. Mr Varadkar praised Mr Trudeaus tenure in power and said that when his legacy is assessed he will be seen as one of the great Canadian prime ministers, certainly a consequential one. He told RTE Radio: I do think he was a prime minister who achieved a lot for Canada. You mentioned Donald Trump, he dealt with him for four years, Donald Trump was going to get rid of Nafta, get rid of the trade agreement between the USA, Canada and Mexico, and he managed to negotiate a new agreement called the US-NCA which is pretty much the same thing. I think that was quite an achievement. He was very good on climate, had the courage to bring in a carbon tax and bring Canada into the Paris accords, and bear in mind, theres a really strong lobby in Canada oil industry, gas industry, all of that. Brought in gun control, something politicians south of the US-Canada border have not been successful at doing. Brought in a Canadian system of child benefit which I think has made a difference in the lives of children and families and also improved access to affordable childcare and healthcare. He acknowledged the problems that Canada faces, but said they were similar to other Western countries challenges: the cost of living, housing shortages and migration. He added: But I think when you look at the broad sweep of what he has achieved over nine years, it is significant and I think he can be proud of what he has achieved. After Mr Varadkar first became taoiseach in 2017, Mr Trudeau was the first world leader to visit Ireland under his tenure and Canada was the first country Mr Varadkar paid an official visit to in the role. Mr Varadkar announced his resignation in March, when he said being taoiseach had been the most fulfilling time of his life but said he no longer felt he was the best person for the job. Asked about the similarities between Mr Trudeaus exit and his own, he said that Fine Gael was not as far behind in the polls as the Canadian Liberals. He said: I remember one prime minister, (New Zealands) Jacinda Ardern, stepped down after six years, I remember her saying to me once, if youre a prime minister, if youre a head of government, theres only three ways you go: you die, you lose an election or you resign, and if you resign its either by choice or by force. Beijing (Gasgoo)- FAW Group's Hongqi brand recently announced its 2024 sales performance, reporting a total of 411,777 vehicles sold throughout the year, which represented a 17.4% year-on-year increase. 2024 marked the seventh consecutive year for Hongqi to realize a year-on-year growth in sales. Tiangong 08; photo credit: Hongqi Hongqi's two main sales contributors, the H5 and HS5, logged cumulative sales exceeding1.1 million units in the past year. Meanwhile, Hongqi's new energy vehicle (NEV) sector saw significant growth, with 115,000 units sold in 2024, indicating a 43.7% year-on-year surge, and establishing NEVs as a key driver of the brand's upward trajectory. Additionally, Hongqi sold 296,777 energy-efficient vehicles in the last year, which rose 9.6% from the previous year. The brand also completed the delivery of 1,100 units of its premium JINKUIHUA ultra-luxury vehicle lineup, while establishing 31 new delivery and service centers. In 2024, Hongqi introduced two innovative platformsthe Tiangong all-electric vehicle platform and the Jiuzhang intelligent platform. The Tiangong 08, a mid-to-large luxury electric SUV built on these platforms, is set to officially hit the market on January 7. The vehicle previously kicked off pre-sales at the Auto Guangzhou 2024, with prices starting at 239,800 yuan. Stuff reported: More Kainga Ora tenants have been evicted for disruptive behaviour in the first four months of this financial year than over the previous two full years due to an improved system to tackle problems. The improved system is a new Government that told them it would not tolerate tenants who abuse and terrorise their neighbours. In the 2022-2023 year there were 57 warning issued. That jumped to 202 in the 2023-2024 year. A whopping 375 warnings were issued between July 1 and October 31 this year. So the number of warnings is around 20 times higher than two years ago. Again a good thing that abusive tenants now face consequences. Share this: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Reddit WhatsApp More Pinterest Print Tumblr Beijing (Gasgoo)- Chinese automaker Changan Automobile on Jan. 4 announced its monthly sales volume for December 2024, which stood at 250,689 vehicles, representing a 16.55% jump year-on-year. Throughout the year, Changan Automobile sold 2,683,798 vehicles cumulatively, which rose 5.12% from a year ago. Of the vehicles sold in 2024, a total of 2,226,489 units were under Changan Automobile's wholly-owned brands, with 1,668,284 units being passenger vehicles. Changan Automobile's wholly-owned brands sold 536,196 vehicles in overseas market last year. DEEPAL S05; photo credit: DEEPAL In the new energy vehicle (NEV) sector, Changan Automobile sold 91,325 vehicles in December, which added up to an annual volume of 734,615 units in total. As to Changan Automobile's joint ventures, Changan Ford sold 247,035 vehicles in 2024, representing a 5.97% climb year-on-year. Meanwhile, the automaker's other joint venture, Changan Mazda, posted a 14.69% year-on-year drop in annual sales, which came in at 88,662 vehicles. By Baek Byung-yeul The upcoming thriller film, "Nocturnal," is expected to have a raw charm, brimming with the scent of gasoline and on the brink of explosion, according to its lead actor, Ha Jung-woo. "This work is a film that smells of gasoline," Ha said during a press conference at a theater in Seoul, Monday. "That's exactly how it felt when the director led the atmosphere on set and when the actors created their ensemble. It's clearly a thriller with twists and action elements, but it was a film with a strong dramatic pull." In "Nocturnal," Ha portrays Min-tae, a former gang member turned construction worker who begins investigating the mysterious death of his younger brother. As Min-tae follows the clues surrounding his brother's death, he encounters Ho-ryeong (Kim Nam-gil), a novelist investigating the same case. Min-tae soon discovers that the author had eerily predicted the circumstances of his brother's death in his bestselling novel. "Min-tae is a member of a ruthless gang, but takes the fall for his brother's accident and ends up in prison," the lead actor said describing his character. "When he's trying to start a new life after leaving the gang, he is confronted with his brother's death. This drives him to relentlessly investigate and seek revenge for the loss." Ha added that he was drawn to the project after watching director Kim Jin-hwang's previous project, "The Boys Who Cried Wolf." "I was impressed by Kim's 'The Boys Who Cried Wolf,'" he said. "I was looking for a new, raw and classic work and this movie seemed to align with my interests when I received the offer." The film finished shooting in 2021 and is now being released in theaters after four years. The director revealed that the editing process underwent several modifications, which caused the delay. "The post-production period took longer than expected. We didn't change the overall structure in editing, but we worked to increase the density and completeness," the director said. He said audiences should be able to empathize greatly with Min-tae, who is determined to uncover the truth behind his brother's death. "As you follow Min-tae's pursuit, you can feel compassion for both his anger and humanity," the director added. Kim Nam-gil, who portrays bestselling author Ho-ryeong, is taking on the lead role alongside Ha for the second time following the 2020 film, "The Closet." Ha and Kim explore a new dynamic in this film, contrasting their previous work together in a different genre. "There can be disadvantages to acting with actors you're close to, but the advantages outweigh them," Kim said. "Ha is such a humorous actor and one who makes the set enjoyable, but in this production, he gave a raw performance, which was impressive. "Nocturnal" will hit theaters on Feb. 5. State-run museum draws record-breaking international patrons in 2024 By Park Han-sol The year 2024 was a banner year for the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Korea (MMCA), as the number of its international visitors soared to an all-time high. The state-run museum, which operates four venues across Korea the main Seoul branch, Deoksugung inside the royal palace, Gwacheon in Gyeonggi Province and Cheongju in North Chungcheong Province drew over 220,000 visitors from abroad last year, marking a 36 percent jump from prepandemic levels in 2019. More than half of the international audience hailed from the United States and Europe, followed by travelers from China, Japan and Southeast Asia. With this, the MMCA has officially surpassed the milestone of 1 million foreign visitors since the opening of its Seoul branch in 2013. One of the most visible catalysts behind the museums record global attendance is the impact of Frieze Seoul and Seoul Art Week, according to art critic Yoon Jin-sup. The art fair, launched in September 2022, has quickly become a pivotal congregation point for institutional representatives, collectors and art enthusiasts from around the world, many of whom previously lacked sufficient incentive to travel to Seoul. During their stay, these visitors often venture beyond the immediate vicinity of Frieze to explore other neighborhoods with clusters of museums and commercial galleries including Samcheong-dong in central Seoul, home to the MMCAs main branch, Yoon explained. Kim Sung Woo, a curator and writer who co-directed the 2018 Gwangju Biennale, highlighted the synergy between Frieze Seouls commercial impact and the coordinated programming of public institutions during Seoul Art Week. He noted that the art fairs financial clout and promotional reach, coupled with museum and gallery exhibitions, offer the art professionals a highly concentrated cultural experience. These individuals then produce high-quality writings articles and publications that spotlight Koreas current contemporary art scene, he told The Korea Times. This, in turn, generates a wealth of secondary materials in different languages, further amplifying global interest in Korean art. That said, Kim cautioned against attributing the MMCAs surge in international audience solely to Frieze Seoul or the September art boom. We must keep in mind that most overseas visitors are not art professionals but members of the general public, he said. The broader reason for this influx therefore lies beyond the art world its Koreas wide-ranging cultural exports, including films, dramas and music, which hold immense global influence. These cultural touchpoints are what draws tourists here in the first place, and museums like the MMCA become natural extensions of their journey. What's next? Having reached a critical milestone in attracting global attention, how should the MMCA chart its next steps to solidify its standing in the broader art world? One key objective is to effectively leverage its international network to strengthen its role as a bridge between Korean contemporary art and the global art scene an area where the institution still falls short, according to Kim. For instance, its Korea Artist Prize shouldnt simply end with the presentation of an award, the curator noted. A national institutions function is to strategically plan how to promote and position these selected creatives within the international cultural dialogue in meaningful ways. He emphasized the importance of fostering concrete exchanges with overseas art professionals who visit during events like Frieze Seoul. By facilitating tangible dialogues, the museum can craft compelling narratives around Korean artists and partner with international organizations to present their work abroad in more contextualized and impactful ways. Another pressing task is constructing a cohesive lineage for Korean contemporary art. This would allow a clearer understanding of each artists place within the domestic scene and their connections to broader historical and cultural narratives. While modern movements like dansaekhwa (Korean monochrome painting) and Minjung Art have been better documented, the genealogy of todays creators remains underdeveloped, Kim noted. Addressing this gap requires conducting focused academic research, as well as recalibrating the museums collection strategy to better trace Koreas artistic evolution. If the institution acquires iconic pieces from a celebrated period in a prominent artists career, it should also collect their earlier and later works to establish a more comprehensive and contextualized lineage. Ultimately, the MMCAs role must extend beyond staging exhibitions as isolated, one-off events, according to Kim. By realigning its programming and collection efforts, the museum should position itself as a key player in shaping the narrative of Korean contemporary art on the world stage, offering audiences a more nuanced understanding of how the countrys art intersects with both local traditions and global trends. By Lee Yeon-woo Korean financial CEOs broke their yearslong streak of attending the annual CES tech trade show in Las Vegas, amid lingering uncertainties in the domestic economy. This year, Korean CES delegations were mostly limited to working-level staff, with some companies opting not to send any representatives at all. According to market watchers on Monday, only Shinhan Bank and the Industrial Bank of Korea (IBK) plan to operate independent booths at the world's largest tech show, which kicks off on Tuesday (local time). However, neither organization's leader will attend the event. This is the first time that IBK has set up an independent booth at CES. The bank plans to unveil its artificial intelligence (AI)-powered "future growth model," a system designed to evaluate the growth potential of startups within their first seven years by leveraging data-driven insights. While IBK Chairman and CEO Kim Sung-tae had initially planned to attend the event in person to commemorate the bank's first CES venture, he ultimately decided to remain in Korea, citing rapidly changing domestic circumstances. In his place, IBK Deputy CEO Kim Hyung-il will represent the bank. "We aim to demonstrate to global corporations and investors that IBK holds expertise in financing for small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as supporting innovative companies," an IBK official said. "We will actively support the global ventures of Korean startups that possess innovative technology." Shinhan, which has hosted its own booth for three consecutive years, is also showcasing AI bank tellers and an unmanned banking branch. Last year, Shinhan became the first financial institution to develop its own large language model for integrating AI into financial operations. The bank is now focused on further refining and advancing the model. Shinhan Financial Group Chairman Jin Ok-dong, known for his interest in CES, and Shinhan Bank CEO Jung Sang-hyuk, who attended last year, were initially expected to participate this year. However, both opted not to due to domestic commitments. Including Shinhan, five domestic financial holding groups decided not to send executive-level representatives this year. KB, Woori and NH NongHyup dispatched only working-level staff, with Woori attending the exhibition for the first time in five years since 2020. Given the growing influence of AI, these groups aim to explore new opportunities for collaboration across different industries. In contrast, Hana Financial Group chose not to send any representatives at all, despite its chairman Ham Young-joo having personally attended CES for the past two years. "We decided not to participate in CES this year to focus on managing internal risks amid the economic and social uncertainties at home and abroad," a Hana Financial Group official said. North Korea fired a suspected hypersonic missile into the East Sea on Monday, the South Korean military said, marking its first provocation this year ahead of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration. The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said it detected the launch of a suspected intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) at about 12 p.m. from the Pyongyang area and it flew some 1,100 kilometers before splashing into the waters. While the missile's flight range fell short of the 3,000 to 5,500 km usually covered by IRBMs, it is suspected to have characteristics similar to North Korea's intermediate-range hypersonic missiles launched in January and April last year, a JCS official said. If confirmed to be a hypersonic missile, it would be the farthest range traveled by a North Korean missile of its kind. The latest launch took place as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was visiting Seoul for talks on efforts to deter North Korean threats amid political turmoil in South Korea stemming from President Yoon Suk Yeol's failed martial law bid. South Korean officials have warned the North could take advantage of the political crisis by engaging in military activity and ratchet up cross-border tensions. "Under a firm South Korea-U.S. combined defense posture, our military will closely monitor various North Korean activities so that it does not misjudge the current security situation," the JCS said in a message to reporters, while denouncing the launch as a "clear provocation." The latest saber-rattling also came two weeks before Trump takes office on Jan. 20. The North last fired multiple short-range ballistic missiles into the East Sea on Nov. 5, just ahead of the U.S. presidential election. In a year-end party meeting, North Korea declared it would carry out the "toughest" counteraction strategy toward the United States, claiming military cooperation among South Korea, the U.S. and Japan has expanded into a "military bloc for aggression." (Yonhap) Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On the first day of 2025, the research team of China's Southeast University debuted the country's first distributed electric-drive flying car, "Southeast University Kunpeng No.1", according to a post on the university's WeChat account. This innovation was developed by the university's Department of Automotive Engineering in the School of Mechanical Engineering and the Jiangsu Research Center for Intelligent Electric Transport Equipment. Southeast University Kunpeng No.1; photo credit: Southeast University The "Southeast University Kunpeng No.1" is China's first flying car to feature all-wheel steering, all-wheel electric drive layouts, and a four-axis, eight-rotor design. It is also the first integrated land-air vehicle in Jiangsu province. Unlike conventional electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, which is designed exclusively for aerial mobility, "Southeast University Kunpeng No.1" combines rapid ground mobility with agile airborne capabilities. This innovation adopts an automobile-focused approach rather than a drone-based design, enabling it to switch between ground driving and aerial flight. According to Professor Yin Guodong, project leader and faculty member at Southeast University's School of Mechanical Engineering, the "Southeast University Kunpeng No.1" incorporates multiple technologies including integrated land-air body topology optimization, full-range redundancy mechanisms for the power system, a multi-modal interactive digital cockpit, cross-domain multidimensional data fusion, a distributed electric-drive system for both ground and air, and double Ackermann coordinated steering system. Southeast University Kunpeng No.1; photo credit: Southeast University The "Southeast University Kunpeng No.1" measures 2.1m in length, 1.2m in width, and 1.5m in height, with a maximum takeoff weight of 500 kilograms. It boasts a flight endurance of at least 20 minutes and a maximum flight altitude of 300 meters. The flying car is powered by a four-wheel hub distributed electric-drive system, featuring front and rear double Ackermann steering system and electrohydraulic composite braking, which can deliver a top ground speed of 60 km/h. Currently, powering the "Southeast University Kunpeng No.1" is a high-performance battery pack. In addition, the team has also developed an extended-range electric propulsion system, which boasts high power output, long endurance, and great reliability, compared with the current battery-driven system. This system, which is expected to prolong flight duration to over two hours, will be applied to the next generation of land-air integrated flying cars. The presidential National Security Office convened a meeting Monday to discuss North Korea's firing of a suspected intermediate-range ballistic missile launch. Yin Sung-hwan, the second deputy director of the National Security Office, presided over the meeting with the military and other related agencies to discuss North Korea's missile launch and responses, the presidential office said. "The government will closely monitor North Korea's movements and maintain firm readiness to respond to any provocations," the office of the presidential spokesperson said in a notice to the press. The North's first missile launch of the year took place as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Seoul for talks with his South Korean counterpart amid political turmoil in the stemming from President Yoon Suk Yeol's short-lived martial law declaration last month. (Yonhap) The nuclear envoys of South Korea, the United States and Japan condemned North Korea's latest missile launch in their phone talks Monday, vowing close coordination against any future provocations by the recalcitrant regime. Lee Jun-il, director general for Korean Peninsula policy, discussed the North's launch of an intermediate-range ballistic missile with his U.S. and Japanese counterparts, Seth Bailey and Akihiro Okochi, respectively, Seoul's foreign ministry said. The South's military said the North fired a suspected hypersonic missile into the East Sea, marking its first provocation this year ahead of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration. The launch also coincided with bilateral talks between U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul in Seoul. "The envoys condemned that North Korea conducted the ballistic missile launch while the South Korea-U.S. foreign ministerial meeting was taking place in Seoul," the ministry said in a release. "It constitutes a clear violation of multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions and poses a serious threat to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and the international community," the ministry said. The three sides agreed to continue coordination to firmly respond to provocations by Pyongyang, based on the solid South Korea-U.S. alliance and the trilateral security cooperation involving Japan. (Yonhap) South Korea has become the first Asian country to join Horizon Europe, the world's largest multilateral research and innovation (R&I) funding program, Seoul's science ministry said Monday. The nation officially began participating in Horizon Europe as an associated member on Jan. 1, becoming the first Asian and the third country from outside of Europe to join the program, according to the Ministry of Science and ICT. Previously, New Zealand and Canada joined the program with a budget of 95.5 billion euros ($98.5 billion) for 2021-2027. South Korea will engage in Pillar II of the R&I initiative, led by the European Union (EU), which focuses on conducting joint research to address global challenges and strengthen industrial competitiveness, according to the ministry. With the membership, Korean researchers will be allowed to take part in the Pillar II work program, to be unveiled in the first half of the year, with equal status to European researchers and apply for research funding from Horizon Europe. South Korea will also be allowed to join the initiative's program committee as an observer. "Joining Horizon Europe as an associated member will be an important opportunity to strengthen research cooperation with Europe, an advanced leader in science and technology," Science Minister Yoo Sang-im said in a press release. In its own press release, the EU said the signing of the association agreement is expected to take place sometime in 2025, "pending the completion of all necessary validations on both sides." "Under transitional arrangement, the European Union welcomes researchers and organisations from the Republic of Korea to participate in the calls and activities of Pillar II of the Horizon Europe program from Work Program 2025 onwards," the statement read, referring to South Korea by its official name. (Yonhap) Chinese President Xi Jinping I was shocked to hear about the significant loss of life in the Jeju Air passenger plane accident in your country. On behalf of the Chinese government and the Chinese people, I would like to express my deep condolences to the victims, offer my heartfelt sympathy to the families of the victims, and wish for a swift recovery for the injured. Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev It is with with deep sorrow that I have received the news of the tragic crash of a passenger plane at Muan Airport, resulting in the loss of many lives. In this difficult time, I extend my heartfelt condolences to you, the families of the victims, and the entire friendly Korean people. I wish swift recovery to those injured in the tragic incident and their safe return to their families. President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev extended his heartfelt condolences on Sunday following a tragic plane crash in South Korea. In a message addressed to South Koreas acting President, Choi Sang-mok, President Mirziyoyev expressed profound sorrow over the loss of life. According to the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Seoul, the statement underscored Uzbekistans solidarity with South Korea during this time of mourning. We are deeply saddened by the news of the loss of many lives in the plane crash in Muan. In these difficult and tragic times, I extend my deepest condolences to the friendly people of Korea on behalf of the multinational people of Uzbekistan and myself. We wish patience and strength to the families and loved ones of the victims and a swift recovery to the injured, President Mirziyoyev said. The message reflects Uzbekistans commitment to stand by South Korea and its people during moments of tragedy, emphasizing the shared human values of compassion and support. Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met in Seoul on Monday for talks on their countries' bilateral alliance, efforts to deter North Korean threats and other key issues, officials said. The talks came as South Korea seeks to ensure its alliance with the United States remains strong despite political uncertainties following President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment over his failed martial law attempt. Blinken's visit marked the first trip by a top U.S. official since Yoon's impeachment. Blinken arrived in South Korea late Sunday. The talks also coincided with North Korea's launch of a ballistic missile into the East Sea, marking its first provocation of the year. The two top diplomats were to hold a joint press conference following the talks. Yoon's surprise martial law imposition sparked concerns it could undermine the alliance with Washington and policy coordination on North Korean issues, especially ahead of the launch of the second Donald Trump administration. The U.S. has reaffirmed its strong support for the "ironclad" alliance with South Korea and voiced confidence in the country's acting leadership, despite the parliamentary impeachment of former acting President Han Duck-soo just less than two weeks after Yoon's impeachment. Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok has taken over as the acting president. Blinken paid a courtesy call on Choi ahead of his talks with Cho. The allies have agreed to fully resume bilateral diplomatic and security schedules postponed in the aftermath of the martial law debacle. Monday's talks were likely to focus on reaffirming their commitment to the alliance and Washington's deterrence against Pyongyang despite the political situation. Cho and Blinken were also expected to discuss the deepening military cooperation between the North and Russia, as well as Pyongyang's troop deployment to Russia in support of its war against Ukraine. They were also expected to underscore their commitment to advancing trilateral cooperation with Japan, a key diplomatic achievement for the outgoing Biden administration and its two Asian allies. Announcing the visit last week, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said Blinken will meet Seoul officials to discuss ways the two nations can "build our critical cooperation on challenges around the world." The talks will also address strengthening efforts to promote a free, open and prosperous Indo-Pacific, as well as trilateral efforts with Japan, Miller said. Blinken is on a three-nation tour this week, with planned stops in Japan and France. The trip is widely expected to be his final overseas visit as the top U.S. diplomat under the Biden administration. (Yonhap) Acting President Choi Sang-mok on Monday emphasized the need for close communication and cooperation with the incoming U.S. administration by mobilizing all available resources. Choi made the remarks while presiding over a meeting attended by the ministers of economy, diplomacy and industry to assess the government's preparedness ahead of the launch of the second Donald Trump administration later in the month. "We will fully utilize all available resources to engage in close communication and consultations immediately after the new U.S. administration takes office," Choi said. He also highlighted the likelihood of uncertainties increasing significantly, raising concerns about potential shortcomings in the country's response strategies during the critical period. "As uncertainties diminish, our economy will improve," Choi added. "We will do our utmost to manage the economy in a stable manner." The meeting, initiated under Choi's direction, aims to formulate systematic strategies for Korea's export-driven economy in response to growing risks from potential protectionist trade policies under the new U.S. administration. Choi will personally oversee the meeting, which is scheduled to convene regularly every Monday, according to the finance ministry. (Yonhap) U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday reaffirmed the United States' complete confidence in the strength of Korea's democracy and the leadership of acting President Choi Sang-mok, according to Seoul's finance ministry. Washington's top diplomat made the remarks in talks with Choi during his visit to Seoul. His visit here comes amid political uncertainties following the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol over his failed attempt to impose martial law on Dec. 3. Choi assumed the interim leadership role after the National Assembly voted to impeach Yoon on Dec. 14 and then acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo two weeks later. During Monday's meeting in Seoul, Blinken emphasized that Washington not only has full confidence in the resilience of Korea's democracy but also in Choi's leadership. "The 70-year alliance between Korea and the United States remains a cornerstone of peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in the Indo-Pacific region," the ministry quoted Blinken as saying. Furthermore, Blinken commended the progress achieved through trilateral cooperation among Korea, the U.S. and Japan, particularly following the historical Camp David summit. The summit in August 2023 brought together Yoon, U.S. President Joe Biden and then Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Blinken expressed Washington's anticipation that such achievements will be sustained and further expanded. Blinken's visit marks the first trip to Seoul by a top U.S. official since Yoon's impeachment, while his talks with Cho mark the first high-level engagement between the allies. Blinken arrived in Korea late Sunday. In response, Choi expressed gratitude for Washington's steadfast support and trust in Korea's democracy and alliance. He further noted that Blinken's visit itself is a testament to the unwavering strength of the Korea-U.S. alliance. Announcing the visit last week, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said Blinken will meet Seoul officials to discuss ways the two nations can "build our critical cooperation" on challenges around the world. Blinken is on a three-nation tour this week, with planned stops in Japan and France. The trip is widely expected to be his final overseas visit as the top U.S. diplomat under the Biden administration. (Yonhap) NK fires ballistic missile as top South Korean, US diplomats hold farewell luncheon By Lee Hyo-jin U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken suggested Monday that Moscow might be planning to share advanced space and satellite technology with North Korea. This development, if true, could aid the isolated regime in advancing its goal of deploying multiple spy satellites to monitor its adversaries. The remarks were made during a joint press conference with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul in Seoul, marking Blinkens final official visit to South Korea as the Joe Biden administration prepares to hand over power to U.S President-elect Donald Trump on Jan. 20. The DPRK has already received Russian military equipment and training. Now we have reasons to believe that Moscow intends to share advanced space and satellite technology with Pyongyang. Putin may be close to reversing its decades-long policy by accepting the DPRK's nuclear weapon programs," Blinken said, using the acronym for the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea, the official name of North Korea. These concerns follow accusations that North Korea has sent approximately 11,000 troops to Russia to support its war in Ukraine. South Koreas intelligence agency estimates that around 100 of these troops have been killed and 1,000 injured. Cho, for his part, said the two sides will continue to cooperate in deterring North Korea's illegal military activites. "We had an in-depth exchange of views on North Korea's nuclear issue and the illicit military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. We agreed on the importance of efforts to enforce U.N. Security Council sanctions against North Korea and to expose its sanctions evasion activities in order to advance the goal of denuclearization," the foreign minister said. The top diplomats also condemned North Koreas latest missile provocation, which occurred during their meeting. According to South Koreas military, Pyongyang launched a suspected intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) into the East Sea around noon, coinciding with the ministers' luncheon. We condemn the DPRKs missile launch today, yet another violation of multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions, Blinken said. Cho echoed the condemnation, saying, We have pledged to thoroughly prepare for any potential provocations and respond through a robust combined defense posture and strengthened extended deterrence." Meanwhile, the two sides also reaffirmed the strength of the bilateral alliance amid political turbulence in Seoul and an impending leadership change in Washington. I believe that the more challenging the situation, the more essential it is to maintain our diplomatic goals. Together with our value-based ally, the United States, we will continue to move forward in a steadfast manner," Cho said. Even under a new Trump administration, we will pursue solidarity rooted in shared values, closely coordinating all policies and actions." The South Korean foreign minister remarked that President Yoon Suk Yeol's unexpected martial law declaration on December 3 last year, along with the resulting political fallout, highlight both the challenges and resilience of the nation's democracy. He assured that South Korea will work to restore international trust, drawing on its enduring democratic values and the maturity of its citizens. Blinken said the U.S. had expressed serious concerns regarding Yoon's brief imposition of martial law but praised South Korea's response to the crisis, highlighting that it adhered to Constitutional principles and the rule of law. Our relationship is bigger than any one leader, any one government, any one party, he said. The security challenges we face, the economic opportunities we share all of these shared challenges and opportunities will continue to bring us closer together. The U.S. has full confidence in South Koreas institutions, and we reaffirm our unwavering support for the Korean people as they work tirelessly to uphold those institutions." Blinkens visit was the first one by a senior U.S. official since Yoon's martial law bid that led to his impeachment by the National Assembly on Dec. 14. The South Korean leader's attempt to put the country under emergency military rule stunned Washington officials, who had been championing Seoul as Asia's leading democracy. The leadership vacuum in South Korea has raised concerns about the nation's ability to navigate the uncertainties surrounding Trump's potential return to the White House. In this context, the Cho-Blinken farewell meeting, along with two prior phone calls in December, underscore Seoul's ongoing efforts to fine-tune its alliance with the U.S. amid political instability. Before the luncheon with Cho, Blinken met with Acting President Choi Sang-mok, who also serves as deputy prime minister and finance minister. During the meeting, the acting president underscored the strength of the South Korea-U.S. alliance, while Blinken expressed confidence in the Souths democracy and Chois leadership. Choi has been serving as interim leader since Dec. 27, following the National Assemblys impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo and the suspension of his duties. This came after Yoons impeachment on Dec. 14. National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik met with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Seoul on Monday and discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between South Korea and the United States, officials said. The meeting at the National Assembly came as the top U.S. diplomat visited Seoul amid efforts to ensure its alliance with the U.S. remains strong despite political uncertainties coming from last month's botched martial law imposition. In the meeting, Woo requested continued support from the U.S., adding that a special parliamentary delegation is set to travel to the U.S. soon to explain South Korea's situation and seek cooperation for their alliance. "On top of a national crisis over the martial law imposition, the Republic of Korea is in great grief due to the passenger aircraft tragedy," Woo was quoted as saying. "But as we have survived numerous national crises, such as colonial rule, (territory) division and dictatorship, I am certain we will overcome this crisis," he said. An official at the National Assembly said Blinken is the first U.S. state secretary to visit the parliament to meet with a South Korean National Assembly speaker. Earlier in the day, Blinken paid a courtesy call on acting President Choi Sang-mok, and discussed North Korea's nuclear development and military alignment with Russia with Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul. Blinken was on a three-nation tour this week, with planned stops in Japan and France. The trip is widely expected to be his final overseas visit as the top U.S. diplomat under the Biden administration. (Yonhap) South Korea's top military officer held phone talks with his counterpart at the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on Monday and discussed ways to expand military cooperation, the South's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said. In their phone conversation, JCS Chairman Adm. Kim Myung-soo and Adm. Rob Bauer, chair of the NATO Military Committee, reaffirmed their principle of opposing attempts to change the status quo by force and concurred on the need to expand cooperation to sustain a rules-based international order, the JCS said. Kim stressed that North Korea's nuclear and missile threats, as well as its military alignment with Russia, are becoming a grave challenge to global peace, underscoring the need for a joint response by the international community. Bauer explained to Kim key agenda items for an upcoming NATO defense meeting scheduled for Jan. 15-16 and requested Seoul's support for the gathering as well as cooperation with NATO, according to the JCS. Bauer is set to step down from his post after the two-day meeting. He will be succeeded by Adm. Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, who formerly served as Italy's chief of defense. (Yonhap) Beijing (Gasgoo)- JAC Yiwei, a subsidiary of JAC Group, recently signed a technical cooperation agreement with Contemporary Amperex Intelligence Technology (Shanghai) Limited (CAIT-SH), a subsidiary of CATL, according to the automaker's post on WeChat. Signing ceremony; photo credit: JAC Group The agreement focuses on advancing the CIIC (CATL Integrated Intelligent Chassis) technology, also known as the skateboard chassis, to develop new vehicle platforms and deploy various scenario-specific models. On January 6, 2024, JAC Group and CATL further solidified their partnership by signing a strategic cooperation agreement, emphasizing collaboration in power battery technologies. Both parties agreed to integrate CIIC technology into future vehicle applications as a key focus of their joint efforts. This latest agreement deepens their existing partnership. Up to now, JAC Yiwei and CAIT-SH have achieved initial success. Targeting domestic household, commercial, and overseas markets, the duo plans to initially deploy the CIIC-S platform onto JAC Yiwei's new energy passenger vehicles. With the support of the CIIC-S platform, JAC Yiwei's vehicles will see advancements in battery-swapping, pure-electric, and extended-range powertrain technologies. The cooperation extends to joint research on advanced intelligent chassis technologies, including low-voltage power distribution center (PDC), thermal management, battery packs, and electronic and electrical (EE) architectures. CIO flip-flops on responsibility for detaining Yoon, seeks warrant extension By Kwak Yeon-soo The national anti-corruption agency is facing intense criticism for its mishandling of a crucial investigation into President Yoon Suk Yeol's declaration of martial law late last year, which was quickly thwarted by lawmakers. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) has been accused of poor coordination with the police during their joint probe. The situation worsened, Monday, when the CIO initially decided to transfer the responsibility of enforcing a detention warrant for the president to the police, only to reverse the decision shortly after. This misstep has raised concerns that the investigation will face further setbacks, particularly since the president has refused to comply with the detention warrant issued on charges of insurrection and abuse of power. The CIO, working with the National Office of Investigation (NOI) and an investigative unit from the defense ministry, had hoped to rely on the polices expertise to execute the warrant, but this decision only strengthened Yoon's supporters. Around 40 lawmakers from the ruling People Power Party (PPP) gathered near the presidential residence in central Seoul to rally against attempts by investigators to detain Yoon. In response to the backlash, the CIO eventually abandoned its plan to entrust the execution of the warrant to the police. "Given the seriousness of the case, there should be no room for controversy in the investigation. We will take the lead in the investigation within the joint investigation unit," a CIO official said. Last Friday, the CIO attempted to detain Yoon but withdrew its investigators after being blocked by the Presidential Security Service (PSS). Lee Jae-seung, the deputy CIO chief, said that the agency did not anticipate such strong resistance from the PSS. Regarding the investigation's authority, Lee said, "The police agreed on the CIO's leadership in the investigation because we have legal expertise and the right to seek an arrest warrant. Based on the progress of the probe, if our work is finished, the case will be forwarded to the prosecution, which holds the authority to indict. If a special counsel investigation is confirmed, it will be handed over to the counsel." The CIO said it refiled the detention warrant at the Seoul Western District Court to extend the deadline, which was set to expire at midnight on Monday, but did not provide further details. The agencys move prompted criticism from both the police and Yoons legal team. The police said the request to take over the execution of the warrant was made unilaterally by the CIO, adding that the move lacks legal basis. After conducting an internal review, we determined that the anti-corruption agencys request is legally controversial, Baek Dong-heum, a senior police officer at ther NOI, said at a press briefing. We will continue to consult with the CIO regarding the execution of the warrant. Police also warned that they will consider arresting the presidential security officials who obstruct the execution of the warrant again. Yoons lawyer, Yun Gap-keun, condemned the decision, likening it to subcontracting in a construction project. Watching the CIOs investigative behavior that lacks legal ground raises doubts about its qualifications and abilities as a state agency, Yun said in a statement. Yoons legal team filed a complaint with the prosecution, Monday, seeking an investigation into 11 law enforcement officials, including CIO chief Oh Dong-woon. They claimed that the anti-corruption agency does not have the authority to direct the police's investigation, yet it attempted to direct police officers when executing the detention warrant. The CIOs move also drew criticism from the PPP. This clearly reveals that the CIO lacks expertise and responsibility, let alone the ability to investigate the president, Rep. Shin Dong-wook, a spokesperson for the PPP, said. The behavior of neglecting its duty as a state agency damages the rule of law and constitutional order that can never be tolerated. In addition to the criminal investigation, Yoon is also facing an impeachment trial at the Constitutional Court on charges of insurrection and abuse of power. Prosecutors on Monday indicted the top military intelligence commander over his alleged involvement in President Yoon Suk Yeol's botched martial law imposition last month. The prosecution's special investigation team indicted Defense Intelligence Commander Maj. Gen. Moon Sang-ho on charges of playing an "integral" role in an insurrection and abuse of power. Moon is suspected of sending troops to the National Election Commission's office in Gwacheon, south of Seoul, on the night of the short-lived martial law imposition on Dec. 3. He is also suspected of discussing martial law operations with Noh Sang-won, a former defense intelligence commander, alongside two other subordinates, at a burger franchise in Gyeonggi Province two days ahead of the martial law imposition. (Yonhap) By KTimes Pudding, a dog left alone after losing nine family members in the Jeju Air passenger plane crash, visited a joint memorial altar set up in front of Seoul City Hall, Sunday. Pudding was the companion dog of A, 80, the eldest victim of the Jeju Air disaster at Muan International Airport on Dec. 29, which claimed 179 lives. A was returning from a trip to Bangkok, Thailand, for an 80th birthday celebration with his family, who also cared for Pudding, when the tragedy occurred. The accident claimed the lives of nine family members across three generations, including A's wife, daughter and 6-year-old granddaughter, leaving Pudding without anyone to care for it. Pudding was rescued and is under the protection of the animal rights group Care. Pudding, wearing a blue outfit, entered the memorial around 2 p.m., carried by a foster caregiver. The dog gazed quietly at the joint memorial tablet, and when the caregiver approached the altar with a chrysanthemum flower, Pudding looked around but remained calm. As Kim Young-hwan, the head of Care, read a eulogy, Pudding fixed its eyes on the memorial tablet for the victims. Throughout the visit, Pudding did not bark even once. A Care official recounted the rescue, saying, "Pudding was sitting quietly in the community center but ran to us joyfully, as if waiting for family. Seeing the dog wandering alone, we deemed it unsafe and decided to rescue it. Well protect Pudding until a suitable caretaker is found." A temporary caregiver from Care said, "At home, Pudding often looks at the front door, seeming listless. The dog gets excited just hearing the leash, wanting to go outside." Care plans to continue fostering Pudding until a new permanent home is found. The organization began accepting official adoption applications on Monday. This article from the Hankook Ilbo, a sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI and edited by The Korea Times. Korea's quarantine agency on Monday began accepting applications to find new homes for eight detection dogs relieved of their service duties. The program focuses on helping retired sniffer dogs, previously deployed at airports and seaports to detect unauthorized entry of livestock and agricultural goods, begin a new life after retirement, according to the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency. After receiving applications, the quarantine agency will review documents and conduct on-site evaluations with animal rights advocacy groups to select suitable homes for the dogs over a two-month period, with the process set to be completed by late March. The government plans to continue providing various support, including discounts on veterinary treatments, to ensure the retired detection dogs settle smoothly in their new homes. Last year, six retired sniffer dogs were successfully adopted. "We ask for attention and support to help the retired sniffer dogs who have dedicated themselves to the country begin a fresh life with new families," a senior official from the agency said. (Yonhap) Victim recovery efforts completed; Muan Airport closure extended to Jan. 14 By KTimes An investigation team launched an in-depth examination of key components from the wreckage of the Jeju Air disaster, including the engines and cockpit panel, following efforts to recover victims' remains. The investigation team at the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport said on Monday that as of noon, all 179 deceased victims had been transported to funeral homes, where procedures are ongoing. Investigators have retrieved major parts of the aircraft, including two engines and the upper cockpit panel, for detailed analysis. They will also examine the remaining parts of the wreckage, such as the wings. A transcript of the cockpit voice recorder was created on Saturday. Later the same day, two investigators departed for the United States with the flight data recorder (FDR) to collaborate with the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board, which will assess the extent of damage to the FDR and determine whether data can be extracted. A special inspection of six airlines operating the same aircraft model (B737-800) has been extended to Friday. The inspection includes a review of maintenance history, pre- and post-flight checks, operational and maintenance records and workforce management. Additionally, navigation safety facilities, such as localizers installed at 13 airports across the country including Incheon, Gimpo and Jeju will undergo inspection until Wednesday. An official from the ministry said, "The government is currently formulating plans for a joint memorial service and is coordinating with local governments for support if necessary." The runway closure at Muan International Airport, initially set to end on Tuesday, has been extended to 5 a.m. on Jan. 15. This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times. The state anti-corruption agency has asked the police to take over the execution of a warrant to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol over his failed martial law bid, both sides said Monday. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) made the request in an official letter late Sunday with one day left until the warrant's expiry. "The CIO sent us an official letter requesting our cooperation without prior consultations," a police official told Yonhap News Agency. "We are internally carrying out a legal review." The CIO halted its execution of the warrant last Friday after an hourslong standoff with presidential security staff at the presidential residence. The agency has been working with the police and the defense ministry's investigation unit to conduct a joint probe into Yoon's short-lived imposition of martial law on Dec. 3. With the warrant set to expire at midnight, the CIO had been expected to make a second attempt at detaining Yoon or request its extension, among other options. Sources said the CIO's letter was prompting complaints within the police that the agency was trying to shift its responsibilities after passively executing the warrant last Friday. Yoon's legal team has rejected the warrant as illegal and invalid, noting the CIO is not technically authorized to investigate charges of insurrection that Yoon faces over his martial law decree. (Yonhap) President Yoon Suk Yeol's legal defense team on Monday filed complaints with the prosecution against the head of the state anti-corruption agency and 10 others over last week's attempt to execute a warrant to detain the impeached president. An attempt by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) to carry out the warrant for Yoon's detention failed last Friday after an hourslong standoff with security staff at the presidential residence in central Seoul. Yoon's lawyers submitted complaints against Oh Dong-woon, head of the CIO, and others to the Seoul Central District Prosecutors Office, claiming the CIO illegally executed warrants to detain Yoon and search his residence. The legal team argued the CIO had no authority to mobilize police officials for the attempt. The team also filed complaints against acting National Police Agency Commissioner-General Lee Ho-young and acting Defense Minister Kim Seon-ho, accusing them of dereliction of duty and abuse of power for refusing the presidential security service's request for more security personnel. On Sunday, Yoon's lawyers said they would file complaints against all police and defense ministry personnel involved in the execution of the warrants. They plan to file more complaints once they confirm the details of those involved. (Yonhap) Around 30 ruling party lawmakers gathered near the presidential residence to rally against investigators' efforts to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol on Monday. Last Friday, the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), handling the probe on Yoon's short-lived martial law imposition, attempted to detain Yoon at his official residence but called it off after an hourslong standoff with the Presidential Security Service. "The CIO is pretending as if it has the right to exercise the authority over investigations when it does not have the rights," Rep. Kim Gi-hyeon of the ruling People Power Party (PPP) said during the rally. PPP Reps. Yoon Sang-hyun, Cho Bae-sook, Park Dae-chul and Kim Seok-ki were among the participants. The CIO has asked the police to take over the execution of the warrant. Yoon has refused to cooperate with the CIO's summonses for questioning or warrant execution as the agency is not technically authorized to investigate charges of insurrection that he faces over his brief imposition of martial law on Dec. 3. The PPP's interim leader, Kwon Young-se, also stressed that the CIO has no rights to "subcontract" investigations to the police. "The warrant itself is problematic because the CIO does not have the authority to investigate (insurrection charges), and it has no authority to subcontract it to the police," Kwon told reporters after a party meeting at the National Assembly. (Yonhap) Deep distrust of opposition parties helps unite conservative voters: experts By Jung Min-ho In the first several months after his inauguration in May 2022, President Yoon Suk Yeols approval rating quickly fell below 40 percent in most polls and never recovered to that level again. His controversial decision to declare martial law on Dec. 3, 2024, appeared to seal his fate as a failed leader rejected by the people including those who voted for him, with some surveys showing his popularity plunging to as low as 11 percent. However, in an unexpected turn of events, his approval rating is now bouncing back surpassing the levels seen before the martial law declaration. A poll conducted between Jan. 3 and 4 by KOPRA found that 40 percent of respondents supported Yoon. In a poll conducted by the same pollster four months ago, 30 percent did. In another survey released on Monday by Realmeter, his party also enjoyed a jump in support, with 34.4 percent saying they support the ruling People Power Party, up from 30.6 percent in a poll conducted a week earlier. Meanwhile, the approval rating for the opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) inched down to 45.2 percent from 45.8 percent in the Realmeter poll. The figure surged to 52.4 percent in the week that followed Yoons six-hour imposition of military rule, and has been decreasing since. These results indicate that the conservative voter bloc is becoming more united, driven by a shared distrust of the DPK and antipathy toward its leader, Rep. Lee Jae-myung, who is seen as a favorite to win the next presidential election, experts told The Korea Times. After the ousting of former President Park Geun-hye, the ruling bloc fell apart and suffered heavy losses in the elections that followed. Many conservatives fear that such a nightmarish scenario could be repeated if they remain divided, said Lee Joon-han, a professor of political science at Incheon National University. With the DPK holding a comfortable majority in the National Assembly, they know the impact of its five-year control over the executive branch of government would be far more significant, and many are afraid of its consequences. When Park was embroiled in a crisis due to an influence-peddling scandal, which eventually led to her impeachment by the Assembly on Dec. 9, 2016, her approval rating plummeted to as low as 4 percent in some polls. But Yoon, despite committing a far more serious violation of the law and the Constitution in the eyes of many, has not suffered the same levels of backlash. Thats probably because Yoon, unlike Park who remained largely silent on her impeachment, has been proactive in galvanizing and uniting his base, said Kim Sung-soo, a professor of political science and diplomacy at Hanyang University. Yoon has repeatedly vowed to fight, a message that has helped unite his supporters as well as many of those who have negative views of the DPK, the scholar said. While many share their criticisms of Yoon, others are disenchanted with the DPK over its apparent attempt to disrupt government operations through impeachment of 29 top-ranking officials such as ministers and through budget reduction Yoon provided an opportunity to express their frustration toward that party by presenting himself as a platform-like figure to do so. According to a poll carried out by Hankook Research at The Korea Times request last month, Lee, the DPK chairman, was found to be a favorite to win the next presidential election, with 35 percent supporting him. But it is possible that Lee could be banned from running for public office, as he is standing trial for 12 criminal charges, including an election law violation for which he was convicted two months ago. Under the Supreme Courts guidelines, the trial for his election law violation is expected to finish five months from now. If the conviction stands, he will be stripped of the right to run for public office for 10 years. This would mean a de facto end to the 61-year-olds political career. Grieving families call for access to victims social media data By Park Jae-hyuk The Jeju Air plane crash at Muan International Airport in South Jeolla Province has reignited a debate over whether family members of disaster victims should be granted access to the deceased's digital accounts, including social media data. On Friday, five days after the worst-ever aviation accident on Korean soil claimed 179 lives, the victims' families requested the government to liaise with IT firms to allow them access to their loved ones' social media accounts. They made the request because the victims' mobile devices were severely damaged, making it difficult for the bereaved families to notify the deceased's friends and acquaintances of their deaths. Most victims' smartphones require time-consuming forensic analysis, as they were burned by fire and explosions. Children of the victims are facing difficulties notifying their parents acquaintances, the group representing the bereaved families said. We ask the ICT ministry to allow the bereaved families to access the information of the victims acquaintances through the KakaoTalk mobile messenger app. In response, Transport Minister Park Sang-woo informed the bereaved families that government ministries had discussions to persuade smartphone manufacturers and social media operators to provide the victims digital data. Samsung Electronics, for example, has not unlocked the victims smartphones, although the company has repaired damaged devices for free. Kakao said that, upon the request of the ICT ministry, technical and legal reviews are underway to determine whether the company can provide the bereaved families with information about the victims acquaintances on KakaoTalk. So far, the messenger app operator has not shared its deceased users' private data with the grieving relatives. If we disclose their KakaoTalk messages, we could even infringe on the privacy rights of all participants in the conversations, including the deceased users, the company said. Similarly, Naver, another major social media platform in Korea, has not permitted bereaved families to inherit the accounts of its deceased users. Both companies have only supported the deletion of deceased users' accounts to protect their right to be forgotten. Such policies have sparked controversy whenever tragedies occur in Korea. After the Itaewon Halloween disaster in 2022, the sinking of the Sewol ferry in 2014 and North Koreas attack on the ROKS Cheonan corvette in 2010, the bereaved families asked for access to digital accounts. Proponents of access to digital accounts cite U.S. tech firms, such as Meta, Google and Apple, which allow the passing down of digital contents to designated beneficiaries after a persons death. However, the National Assembly has never passed bills to legalize such practices in Korea, since lawmakers began proposing related bills in 2010. 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. Geely Holding sets annual sales target of 5 million+ vehicles for 2027 On January 5, Geely Holding Group unveiled its strategic goals for the next three years. By 2027, the group aims to surpass annual vehicle sales of 5 million vehicles, positioning itself as a leader in electrification, intelligent transformation, and high-quality development. Photo credit: Geely Holding SAIC-GM-Wuling rolls out first made-in-Indonesia Shenlian battery On January 3, SAIC-GM-Wuling announced the successful rollout of its first locally produced Shenlian battery in Indonesia. With this milestone, Wuling becomes the first Chinese automobile brand to achieve power battery production in the Indonesian market, marking a significant step in its regional localization efforts. 2025 ID.4 CROZZ hits market The 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 CROZZ compact all-electric SUV officially hit the Chinese market on the evening of January 3, offering four trim options. Guidance prices range from 194,900 yuan to 298,600 yuan, with no-bargain pricing for specific editions: the Pure Enjoy Edition at 149,900 yuan and the Long-Range PURE+ Edition at 185,900 yuan. The new vehicle features enhancements in power performance, infotainment system, and intelligent driving systems compared to its predecessor. China's optical image solution provider Kankan Tech nabs hundreds of millions of yuan in Pre-B+ funding round Beijing Kankan Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd. (Kankan Tech), China's full-stack optical image solution provider, recently announced the successful completion of its Pre-B+ funding round, which raised for the company hundreds of millions of yuan. China unveils first distributed electric-driven flying car On the first day of 2025, the research team of China's Southeast University debuted the country's first distributed electric-drive flying car, "Southeast University Kunpeng No.1", according to a post on the university's WeChat account. This innovation was developed by the university's Department of Automotive Engineering in the School of Mechanical Engineering and the Jiangsu Research Center for Intelligent Electric Transport Equipment. GAC Energy launches first heavy-duty truck-dedicated charging station GAC Energy recently unveiled its first charging station dedicated to heavy-duty trucks, which is located in Guiping city, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, according to a post on the company's WeChat account. This move marks the company's official entry into the heavy-duty truck energy replenishment market, ushering in a diversified energy development strategy. Shanghai's first training data collection vehicles with autonomous driving large model hit road On December 31, 2024, a fleet of 30 IM L6 data collection vehicles was officially launched at a ceremony in Pudong New Area, marking a significant step in Shanghai's efforts to advance its high-level autonomous driving ecosystem. SGMW's full-year sales exceed 1.54 million vehicles in 2024 SAIC-GM-Wuling (SGMW) recently announced that its sales for 2024 reached 1,540,077 vehicles, representing a year-on-year growth of 9.76%. JAC Yiwei, CATL collaborate on CIIC smart chassis development JAC Yiwei, a subsidiary of JAC Group, recently signed a technical cooperation agreement with Contemporary Amperex Intelligence Technology (Shanghai) Limited (CAIT-SH), a subsidiary of CATL, according to the automaker's post on WeChat. CATL, FAW Jiefang to cooperate in new energy commercial vehicle field FAW Jiefang and CATL recently signed a strategic cooperation agreement under which the two parties will collaborate extensively in the field of new energy commercial vehicles, integrating their strengths to advance product development, resource alignment, R&D projects, industrial ecosystem construction, and business model innovation, according to a post on CATL's WeChat account. Fixed orders for LUXEED R7 surpass 58,000 units so far On January 5, Huawei's smart car alliance, Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance, announced that cumulative fixed orders for the LUXEED R7 model surpassed 58,000 units within 100 days of its market launch. In December 2024 alone, the LUXEED R7 recorded sales of over 15,000 units. CATL, Conch Group form strategic cooperation to drive green transformation Chinese power battery giant CATL and Anhui Conch Group ("Conch"), a main player in China's cement industry, recently signed a strategic cooperation agreement in Ningde, Fujian, according to a post on CATL's WeChat account. The partnership aims to leverage both companies' strengths in advanced battery technology, new material development, application scenarios, and mining resources to foster collaboration across multiple sectors, including mining, manufacturing, and logistics. Lynk & Co 009 flagship SUV makes debut On January 3, Lynk & Co unveiled its latest model, the Lynk & Co 900, a flagship six-seater SUV built on the SPA Evo platform, a dedicated architecture for large plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Changan Automobile posts 5.12% YoY rise in 2024 annual sales Chinese automaker Changan Automobile on Jan. 4 announced its monthly sales volume for December 2024, which stood at 250,689 vehicles, representing a 16.55% jump year-on-year. Black Sesame Technologies, iSoft Infrastructure Software co-launch solutions based on C1200 chip family Black Sesame Technologies and iSoft Infrastructure Software have jointly announced that the iSoft automotive open system architecture software solutions, featuring the latter's Lingzhi safety vehicle control operating system (AUTOSAR CP) and Lingxi intelligent driving operating system (AUTOSAR AP), are now compatible with Black Sesame's Wudang C1200 chip family. Geely Auto aims to hit 2025 annual sales target with focus on tech innovation, global expansion, multi-energy strategy Looking ahead to 2025, Geely Auto has set a bold annual sales target of 2.71 million units, representing a 25% year-on-year jump. CEO Gan Jiayue recently outlined the group's strategy to achieve this goal, focusing on three core areas: product and technology innovation, global market expansion, and diversified energy solutions. FAW Hongqi achieves record-high annual sales in 2024 FAW Group's Hongqi brand recently announced its 2024 sales performance, reporting a total of 411,777 vehicles sold throughout the year, which represented a 17.4% year-on-year increase. 2024 marked the seventh consecutive year for Hongqi to realize a year-on-year growth in sales. iMotion, nenuHCT to co-develop lightweight urban navigation product Chinese intelligent driving solution developer iMotion officially announced its partnership with Horizon Continental Technology Shanghai Co., Ltd. (nenuHCT), a joint venture between Continental and Horizon Robotics, to co-develop a lightweight urban navigation driving product based on Robotics' Journey 6 series computing solutions. XPENG, Volkswagen Group forge strategic partnership in super-fast charging field On January 6, Chinese smart electric vehicle maker XPeng Inc. (XPENG) and Volkswagen Group China announced a strategic partnership in the field of super-fast charging networks with a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed on spot. SK to highlight AI innovations, global collaboration at Las Vegas industry show By Nam Hyun-woo LAS VEGAS Korea's leading tech companies will showcase a future home environment powered by artificial intelligence (AI) agents as their main feature at CES 2025 in Las Vegas. These AI-powered smart homes will offer features like optimized energy use, automated cleaning, health monitoring, and even immersive art experiences. Samsung said, Monday (local time), that it will showcase its home AI solutions at the event, which will take place from Tuesday to Friday. For the exhibition, the tech giant has set up a 3,368-square-meter booth at the Las Vegas Convention Center, making it the largest booth among the companies participating in the worlds biggest tech show. The booth will showcase Samsung's latest electronic appliances, all integrated with the company's newest Bixby AI technologies and the SmartThings Internet of Things (IoT) platform. This will create a fully connected ecosystem throughout the home. Through this, Samsung aims to present more personalized AI experiences tailored to different situations. During the show, Samsung will showcase five themes for AI homes that reflect various user demands. Under the "Efficient Home" theme, Samsung will showcase energy-saving technologies and products, with SmartThings monitoring and comparing the homes current energy efficiency to past data. To enhance user convenience, the company will introduce the Bespoke AI Washer & Dryer Combo, which completes laundry without the need to transfer clothes between machines, and the Bespoke AI Steam Robot Vacuum Cleaner, capable of automatically mopping the floor. As part of the "Healthcare Home" theme, Samsung will highlight personalized health assistance through its SmartThings and Samsung Health systems. Using spatial AI-powered ambient sensing technology, these systems monitor and analyze users' device usage patterns, physical activity, and even ambient sounds. This data enables the delivery of tailored information and services for various situations, such as sleep and workouts. In the "Caregiving Home" theme, the SmartThings system monitors potential accidents at home and alerts family members through smartphones, TVs, and other connected devices. Under the "Productive Home" theme, users can experience Samsungs latest laptops, including the Galaxy Book 5 Pro and Galaxy Book 5 360, both powered by the AI-optimized Intel Core Ultra Series Pro 2 processor. The "New Experience Home" theme will introduce a concept of displaying works from world-renowned artists on TVs, in collaboration with prestigious institutions such as the Musee d'Orsay and the Museum of Modern Art in New York. This will allow users to enjoy famous artworks from the comfort of their own homes. To bring these concepts to life, Samsung introduced its new vision, "Screens Everywhere," showcasing a variety of new screen-embedded appliance models for 2025. In addition to the Bespoke AI Family Hub refrigerator, which is equipped with a 32-inch screen, the company also introduced a Bespoke refrigerator with a 9-inch screen. Furthermore, separate Bespoke AI Washer and Dryer units were unveiled, each featuring a 7-inch screen. The latest examples of SmartThings Pro, a business-to-business (B2B) application of the SmartThings platform, attracted considerable attention, showcasing its potential for commercial use and advanced integrations. Samsung has been promoting SmartThings Pro as a scalable IoT and AI solution for businesses. The system automatically manages various electronic appliances in offices, shops, hotels, and restaurants, adjusting to the operating logic defined by the business operator. At CES 2025, SmartThings Pro expanded its capabilities to include vehicles in collaboration with Hyundai Motor. This integration allows users to control their cars remotely through home appliances, while also enabling drivers to manage home devices from their cars. SmartThings Pro was also applied to Samsung Heavy Industries' newly developed autonomous research ship, the Shift-Auto, enabling remote control of the vessel's equipment. Affectionate intelligence LG Electronics will also bring its vision for an AI-powered home to life under the theme of affectionate intelligence at its 2,044-square-meter booth. The company also designed its booth to offer interactive demonstrations of an AI-powered home, featuring ThingQ On, a generative AI-embedded home hub that connects IoT devices throughout the home. Using sensors installed throughout the home, the AI home hub analyzes users health data, including heart rate, breathing, and coughing patterns. Based on this analysis, it can automatically adjust the indoor temperature and humidity for optimal comfort. During the exhibition, LG will unveil a slew of new appliances, including the Smart InstaView refrigerator, which features a transparent OLED display that allows users to see inside without opening the door. The company will also showcase the worlds first wireless transparent OLED TV, the LG SIGNATURE OLED TV, developed in collaboration with the Italian luxury furniture brand Kartell. LG will also present a range of mobility technologies powered by AI, highlighting their capabilities to improve business operations and drive innovation. Visitors can explore the in-cabin sensing solution, which monitors both the driver and the vehicle's interior. It provides personalized assistance by analyzing the driver's gaze, facial expressions, signs of drowsiness, and real-time heart rate. At LG Labs, the company will showcase concept products such as the High-Up Wine Cellar, which allows users to adjust the angle of wine storage, the Sweevel air purifier, which combines a 360-degree speaker with a wireless charging function, and the Pure Duet coffee machine, which brews coffee using filtered water and two types of capsules for blending. Strengthening partnerships SK Group will showcase its innovative AI technologies while its top executives will be looking to strengthen AI partnerships with leading global companies. At the exhibition, four affiliates SK hynix, SK Telecom, SKC and SK Enmove will operate a joint exhibition booth with the theme Innovative AI, Sustainable Tomorrow. SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won, along with top executives of major affiliates such as SK hynix President Kwak No-jung, SK Telecom President Yoo Young-sang, and SK Networks President Choi Sung-hwan, plan to attend the event to explore the latest trends in cutting-edge AI technology. They will also meet with leading global companies to strengthen collaboration in building a robust AI ecosystem. SK plans to present its business vision of creating a sustainable future and advancing humanity through various AI innovations. Executives will highlight the development of services and technologies aimed at delivering a comprehensive AI Total Solution. At the SK AI Summit 2024 in November, Chey stated, SK is a rare business in the world that can do everything from semiconductors to energy, data center construction and operation, and service development. He shared a vision of "accelerating global AI innovation by bundling various solutions from SK and its partners to overcome AI bottlenecks and bring better AI to our lives more quickly." To make its vision for AI business more tangible, SK's booth will be divided into three main areas: AI Data Center (DC), AI Services, and AI Ecosystem. The exhibits will focus on interactive demonstrations, allowing visitors to experience a wide range of AI services firsthand. "The goal of the CES exhibition is to show how AI technology is entering our daily lives with limitless growth potential. With collaboration essential for AI innovation, SK will continue to look for opportunities to strengthen global partnerships in AI," an SK official said. Xiaomi opens Korean subsidiary with plan to sell budget smartphones By Park Jae-hyuk Xiaomi joined Chinese tech firms in trying to expand its presence in the Korean market by establishing a local subsidiary late last year with a plan to attract consumers with its low-priced smart devices. Xiaomi Technology Korea announced Monday its plan to hold a press conference on Jan. 15 to unveil its new products, including smartphones, televisions, robot vacuum cleaners, power banks and wearable devices. Although the company has yet to disclose their prices, they are estimated to be much cheaper than similar products made by Samsung and LG. Industry officials expect Xiaomi's opening of offline stores to help draw attention from Korean consumers. Before establishing the Korean subsidiary, the Chinese firm sold its products to consumers here online. "With the establishment of the Korean subsidiary, we will communicate more closely with consumers," a Xiaomi Technology Korea official said. "With the products and services tailored for the Korean market, we will provide differentiated value." Amid China's economic slowdown and U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's threat to sanction Chinese companies, other Chinese tech firms have also looked for new sources of income in the Korean market. BYD, for example, is set to release its passenger car in Korea on Jan. 16, following years of sales of commercial vehicles here. The Chinese electric vehicle maker finished selecting six dealerships in Korea late last year to establish a nationwide sales network embracing Seoul, Gyeonggi Province, Incheon, Busan and Jeju Island. Its passenger cars are also expected to be sold for much lower prices in the Korean market, compared to Hyundai Motor's and Kia's vehicles in similar sizes. "We are meticulously preparing to establish a brand that can earn the trust of Korean customers by leveraging our global success and cutting-edge technology," Cho In-chul, head of BYD Korea's passenger car division, said. Roborock, a Chinese robot vacuum cleaner maker holding the largest shares in both the Korean and the international markets, also opened its second Korean flagship store in Starfield Goyang shopping mall in Gyeonggi Province on Jan. 1. AliExpress has been accelerating its growth in the Korean e-commerce market, as its parent firm, Alibaba Group, joined hands with Shinsegae Group last month to establish a joint venture incorporating AliExpress and Gmarket. By Park Jae-hyuk Competition is heating up among oil refiners in Korea to dominate the market for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) exports, with expectations for improving their deteriorating profits by selling the alternative fuel made from nonpetroleum feedstock that reduces emissions from air transportation. On Sunday, SK Energy and HD Hyundai Oilbank issued respective press releases regarding their track records of exporting SAF. SK Energy said in its press release that it became the first Korean oil refiner to export SAF to the European market. The subsidiary of SK Innovation especially emphasized the fact that the European Union this year started requiring all flights from airports in its member countries to use fuel that contains at least 2 percent SAF. "We succeeded in entering the world's largest SAF market earlier than our rivals," SK Energy said. "Our latest achievement can be attributed to the fact that we became the first Korean oil refiner to start the mass production of SAF." HD Hyundai Oilbank, on the other hand, emphasized the fact that it became the first Korean oil refiner to start commercial sales of SAF last June, when it started supplying its eco-friendly fuel to Japan's All Nippon Airways via Marubeni, a Japanese trading firm. "We exported a product that received ISCC EU certification," the HD Hyundai subsidiary said. "There are two types of certifications for the production of SAF the ISCC EU and the ISCC CORSIA but there is no difference in the quality of products that receive different certifications." Oil refiners in Korea increased their investments in SAF last year amid worsening profitability caused by a decline in refining margins. Their rivalry in the SAF market is likely to become fiercer as Korea and other developed countries are set to obligate airlines to use the eco-friendly fuel. S-Oil, which is building storage tanks and pipelines for biofuel in Ulsan, started producing co-processed SAF for Korean Air's flights connecting Incheon and Tokyo last August. Co-processing refers to a method of producing SAF at existing refineries. Last September, the Saudi Aramco-owned oil refiner also signed a memorandum of understanding with T'way Air to supply SAF for the budget carrier's flights. GS Caltex also provided Narita International Airport in Japan with SAF produced by Finland's Neste. Although GS Group's oil refinery unit has yet to produce its own SAF, the company reiterated its plans to invest in facilities for the production of the eco-friendly fuel. "After overcoming the difficult situation, we will proceed with our investments in SAF as planned," GS Caltex CEO Hur Sae-hong told reporters last July. Last month, he maintained the stance, saying that the company is considering investments in the construction of SAF production facilities. Carmaker leaves open diverse action plans under Trump presidency By Lee Min-hyung GOYANG, Gyeonggi Province Hyundai Motor Group must overcome a perfect storm of challenges facing the global automotive industry with an unwavering spirit for innovation, the head of the carmaker said in a New Year message on Monday. Any external stimulus will be of great help to us, as we will fall into a status of complacency without crisis, Chung Euisun, executive chair of the group, said. We have experienced crises all the time and overcame them successfully, and the group has become much stronger after such a perfect storm. The message came at a crucial time when the global automotive industry faces growing uncertainties amid an overall market downturn and geopolitical risks. The incoming Donald Trump administration also comes as a major risk for the carmaker, as he threatens to step up regulatory pressure on electric vehicle (EV) makers, such as Hyundai Motor and Kia. However, Chung reiterated his willingness to tackle external uncertainties by taking the lead in the rapidly changing industry and making timely investments. Hyundai Motor Group should remain bold in making investments for core areas, and should also be willing to pursue strategic collaborations with competitors when necessary, he said. A group of president-level executives also took part in the annual event to present their visions for the future. Hyundai Motor President and CEO Jose Munoz dispelled concerns about Trumps advocacy for trade protectionism. He said the carmaker remains careful but hopeful over the incoming Trump administration, as the company contributes significantly to creating jobs there. Hyundai Motor Group is estimated to create 190,000 jobs in the firms overall value chain across the worlds largest economy. Sung Kim, president of Hyundai Motor in charge of setting the firms overseas strategies, declined to comment on the market outlook under the upcoming era of Trump. Trump starts his second term in two weeks (on Jan. 20), so we do not have to make any hasty generalizations, Kim told reporters after the event. Hyundai Motor Group has action plans for each scenario, so we will be able to react to any changes in the market environment there. Hyundai Motor Group Vice Chair Chang Jae-hoon said the group's priority this year is to solidify its position in developed markets. We need to strengthen our position in major advanced markets, such as the U.S. and Europe, Chang said. Both markets are challenging, but we are making efforts in multifaceted ways to overcome unfavorable market circumstances, including the chasm of EVs before their widespread adoption. He also expressed confidence in defending against pessimistic market outlook by expanding sales for hybrids and EVs. We need to achieve growth both in not just quantity, but quality, so the carmaker will take a step further in leveling up technological expertise and reducing manufacturing costs, he said. Franchisees reluctant to invest amid declining sales By Ko Dong-hwan Attempts at rebranding by Ediya Coffee, once Korea's largest coffee shop chain, remain on hold as the company has yet to determine its positioning in the highly competitive coffee market, which is sharply divided between premium and budget brands. The company now finds itself in a difficult position, offering products priced between premium and affordable tiers. Declining sales have made franchisees reluctant to invest in store rebranding. Meanwhile, management is grappling with how to refresh the brand's image without alienating its franchise partners. On Jan. 2, 2024, CEO Moon Chang-ki announced that the company will "leap forward this year with change and innovation." In his New Year's announcement, he outlined plans to enhance managemental efficiency to strengthen competitiveness in the coffee industry, revamp the brand, prioritize investments to boost franchisees' sales and expand into international markets. However, despite discussions about brand renewal, the company's 3,000 stores across the country and their menus have seen little change. Ediya had initially planned to announce measures to execute the rebranding by the end of 2024, but failed to meet the deadline, according to industry officials. They said the coffee shop chain seems to remain undecided on which direction to take. Ediyas lack of direction comes at a time when Koreas coffee market is becoming increasingly polarized between premium foreign brands and budget-friendly local options a divide the company seems to fall outside of. Last year, Singaporean premium coffee brand Bacha Coffee opened its first store in Seoul in August, attracting customers. Prices at Bacha start at 16,000 won ($10.88) for a 350-milliliter cup, roughly three times the cost of Starbucks and 10 times that of Compose Coffee. Lotte Department Store, which acquired the sales rights for Bacha Coffee, opened a pop-up store inside Lotte World Mall in Seoul in December, drawing significant attention. Meanwhile, Shinsegae Department Store partnered with Intelligentsia Coffee, a premium coffee roasting and retail company from the United States. Intelligentsia opened its second store in Seoul last year. These premium brands are attracting consumers by creating the perception that they offer a rare and luxurious coffee experience that cannot be found anywhere else in Korea. In contrast to these premium brands, low-priced options like Mega MGC Coffee, Compose Coffee, and Paiks Coffee are dominating the market. With a cup of Americano priced under 2,000 won, these top three brands have been sweeping the countrys coffee market and rapidly increasing their number of franchisees. Mega MGC Coffee alone surpassed 3,300 stores last year, the highest number among coffee brands in Korea. Together, the top three brands have nearly 7,600 stores nationwide. Amid this polarized market trend, Ediyas performance has slowed in recent years. According to its latest 2023 disclosure, the company reported sales of 276 billion won, a year-on-year decline of 0.79 percent, and operating profits of 8.2 billion won, an 18 percent drop from the previous year. This marked the first annual sales decline since Ediya began disclosing its financial data in 2012, and it was the first time its earnings fell below 10 billion won since 2013. Despite the CEOs announcement of a rebranding initiative, the plan has faced resistance from the companys franchisees. While management is committed to rebranding and investment, the strategy requires franchisees agreement, as they will need to invest in refurbishing their stores and making other changes. However, Ediya stores have struggled in the face of Koreas increasingly polarized coffee market. Last year, rising prices in food, restaurants, and retail products led more consumers to opt for cheaper coffee brands. This shift in consumer behavior further eroded Ediyas customer base, leaving franchisees hesitant to make additional investments. In October, Ediya hired actor Byeon Woo-seok as the brands official model, covering the entire fee. This marked the first time the company enlisted a triple-A celebrity to represent the brand. "We are still considering the direction and extent to which our rebranding should proceed. The countrys sluggish consumption and the saturated coffee market are our biggest concerns," an Ediya official said. "If the rebranding does not bring any benefits to our franchisees, it will be a failed measure. Therefore, we are working on rebranding strategies that won't place financial pressure on them. On our part, we've hired Byeon to boost sales and send the message that we are truly committed to change," the official added. Israel and Hamas wrangled on Sunday over the details of a deal to halt fighting in the Gaza Strip and return hostages home, as Palestinian officials said intensified Israeli bombardments had killed more than 100 people over the weekend. A Hamas official said the group had approved a list of 34 Israeli hostages to be returned as part of a deal that could eventually lead to a ceasefire. But Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office swiftly issued a statement saying Hamas had not provided a hostage list. Later on Sunday, the Hamas official provided Reuters a copy of the list showing the names of 34 hostages it agreed to set free in any possible ceasefire deal with Israel. A renewed push is underway to reach a ceasefire in the 15-month war between Israel and Hamas, and return Israeli hostages who were taken to Gaza, before U.S. President-elect Donald Trump takes office on Jan. 20. The effort comes amid a surge in Israeli military action in the enclave. This weekend, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza killed 105 Palestinians, medics said. The Israeli military said it had killed dozens of Hamas militants. The U.S. State Department said Israel must comply with international law and do "significantly more to ensure the protection of civilians". It added, however, that it supports Israel's right to defend itself. Israeli negotiators were dispatched on Friday to resume talks in Doha brokered by Qatari and Egyptian mediators, and U.S. President Joe Biden's administration, which is helping to mediate, has urged Hamas to agree to a deal. Hamas said on Friday it was committed to reaching an agreement as soon as possible, but it was unclear how close the two sides were. A Hamas official told Reuters any agreement to return Israeli hostages would hinge on a deal for Israel to withdraw from Gaza and a permanent ceasefire or end to the war. "However, until now, the occupation continues to be obstinate over an agreement over the issues of the ceasefire and withdrawal, and has made no step forward," the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. Netanyahu has consistently said the war will only end once Hamas is eradicated as a military and governing force. Israel launched its assault on Gaza in response to an Oct. 7, 2023 attack by Hamas militants on communities in southern Israel, killing about 1,200 people and taking about 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies. Israel's military campaign has since leveled swathes of the enclave, driving most people from their homes, and has killed 45,805 Palestinians, according to the Gaza health ministry. Fighting rages Israeli military strikes continued throughout the Gaza Strip on Sunday, with an airstrike killing five people in a house in the Nuseirat camp in central Gaza, Gaza health officials said, and another killing four in Jabalia in the north of the enclave. Later in the day, an airstrike hit a police station in Khan Younis in southern Gaza, killing five people, medics said. It was not immediately clear if all the dead were police officers. At nightfall, medics said an Israeli airstrike had killed three people in Bureij camp in central Gaza, bringing Sunday's death toll to 17. The Israeli military said it had struck Hamas militants operating from the humanitarian area in Khan Younis, and an Islamic Jihad militant who it said had carried out attacks from the humanitarian area in Deir al-Balah. In Gaza City's Sheikh Radwan neighborhood, relatives and neighbors rushed to the Zuhd family's house, which was struck by an Israeli airstrike late on Saturday, killing seven people, medics said. The search continued on Sunday morning for four others believed to be trapped under the rubble. Three men dug away debris with their bare hands to retrieve bodies and search for possible survivors. The Israeli military said on Sunday its forces had attacked more than 100 targets across Gaza over the weekend, killing dozens of Hamas militants. It said it had also destroyed rocket launching sites that had been used to wage attacks on Israel in recent days. Later on Sunday, it said it had killed last week in the Jabalia area an Islamic Jihad militant who had participated in the Oct. 7 attack on Israel. (Reuters) Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said on Sunday she was ready to work with Donald Trump after making a surprise visit to Florida to meet the president-elect before his inauguration on Jan. 20. Meloni, who has led a right-wing coalition in Italy since Oct. 2022, met Trump at his Mar-a-Lago residence late on Saturday in a trip that had not been announced in advance. "Lovely evening with Donald Trump who I thank for the welcome," Meloni posted on social media, with a picture of her and Trump. "Ready to work together," she added on X, alongside the Italian and U.S. flags. No details of the talks were released, but Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini said they covered issues including the plight of Cecilia Sala, an Italian journalist detained last month in Iran. "Well done Giorgia Meloni for visiting Donald Trump to talk about peace, industrial and commercial cooperation, security, and the freeing of Cecilia Sala," Salvini posted on X. Meloni was greeted with applause after an introduction by the president-elect, according to videos shared on social media by reporters and others. "This is very exciting. I'm here with a fantastic woman, the prime minister of Italy," Trump told the Mar-a-Lago crowd, according to a media pool report. "She's really taken Europe by storm." Meloni is seen as a potentially strong partner for Trump given her conservative credentials. She has also forged a close relationship with billionaire tech CEO Elon Musk, a close Trump ally. 'Diplomatic bridge' Tommaso Foti, Italy's EU and regional affairs minister, said the meeting showed Italy could act as "a diplomatic bridge between two worlds: the European Union and the USA". Meloni's trip comes days before she is to meet U.S. President Joe Biden during a visit to Rome from Thursday to Jan. 12. Trump and Meloni watched a screening of a documentary questioning the criminal investigations and legal scrutiny faced by John Eastman, a former Trump lawyer who was central to Trump's unsuccessful efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss. One of the biggest challenges facing Meloni is the arrest of journalist Sala in Tehran on Dec. 19. Sala was detained three days after Mohammad Abedini, an Iranian businessman, was arrested at Milan's Malpensa airport on a U.S. warrant for allegedly supplying drone parts that Washington says were used in an attack last January that killed three U.S. service members in Jordan. Iran has denied involvement in the attack. Meloni was the latest in the handful of foreign leaders who have visited Trump in Florida since the Nov. 5 election. He has also met with Argentine President Javier Milei, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. (Reuters) U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel said on Monday they had filed two lawsuits after U.S. President Joe Biden blocked the $14.9 billion buyout of the American steelmaker by the Japanese company. One lawsuit asked a court to set aside Biden's order and the review process by a U.S. government panel. The second lawsuit is against Cleveland-Cliffs, its CEO Lourenco Goncalves, and USW union President David McCall "for their illegal and coordinated actions" aimed at preventing the deal, U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel said. (Reuters) Shanghai (Gasgoo)- Chinese power battery giant CATL and Anhui Conch Group ("Conch"), a main player in China's cement industry, recently signed a strategic cooperation agreement in Ningde, Fujian, according to a post on CATL's WeChat account. The partnership aims to leverage both companies' strengths in advanced battery technology, new material development, application scenarios, and mining resources to foster collaboration across multiple sectors, including mining, manufacturing, and logistics. Photo credit: CATL Key initiatives of cooperation include promoting electrification in logistics field, integrating energy generation, storage, and utilization systems, developing zero-carbon factories, and advancing smart mining solutions. The joint efforts are expected to accelerate progress toward carbon neutrality goals. As a major multinational enterprise primarily engaged in cement and building materials manufacturing, Conch oversees three publicly listed companies: Conch Cement, Conch New Materials, and Conch Environment Protection. The group operates over 650 subsidiaries across China and abroad, with total assets exceeding 300 billion yuan and a workforce of more than 60,000 employees. China has long maintained its position as the world's largest cement producer. However, the cement industry is one of the most energy-intensive sectors, generating significant greenhouse gas emissions and pollutants during production. Globally, the cement industry accounts for approximately 7% of total carbon emissions. As such, advancing green development in the cement industry is crucial for achieving carbon reduction goals both in China and worldwide. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Stamps issued to welcome Year of the Snake Ecns.cn) 13:24, January 06, 2025 The special stamps marking the Chinese zodiac Year of the Snake are released in Beijing, Jan. 5, 2024. (China News Service/Zhang Yu) China Post on Sunday unveiled a set of two special stamps to celebrate the upcoming Chinese zodiac Year of the Snake. Inspired by Dunhuang murals and traditional customs, the stamps, integrating the image of the snake with auspicious meanings, will be released for sale on January 5, 2025. A staff member displays the special stamps marking the Chinese zodiac Year of the Snake at a post office in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province, Jan. 5, 2024. (China News Service/Wang Gang) Stamp collectors wait to buy the special stamps marking the Chinese zodiac Year of the Snake at a post office in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province, Jan. 5, 2024. (China News Service/Wang Gang) Stamp collectors wait to buy the special stamps marking the Chinese zodiac Year of the Snake at a post office in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province, Jan. 5, 2024. (China News Service/Wang Gang) (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) Shanghai (Gasgoo)- FAW Jiefang and CATL recently signed a strategic cooperation agreement under which the two parties will collaborate extensively in the field of new energy commercial vehicles, integrating their strengths to advance product development, resource alignment, R&D projects, industrial ecosystem construction, and business model innovation, according to a post on CATL's WeChat account. Photo credit: CATL Their joint venture, Jiefang Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Ltd., will play a key role in supporting both stakeholders to achieve a breakthrough in sales of new energy commercial vehicles. FAW Jiefang, a 71-year-old commercial vehicle manufacturer, was listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange in May 2020. The company boasts seven major product lines and is actively expanding in the fields of new energy and intelligent connected vehicles. FAW Jiefang is committed to becoming a world-class provider of green and intelligent transportation solutions. CATL has also been proactive in the commercial vehicle sector, launching its first commercial vehicle-dedicated power battery brand, "CATL TIANXING," which serves logistics, public transportation, and other sectors. It provides solutions for buses, light trucks, heavy trucks, and construction machinery, addressing demands for long range, fast charging, and extended battery life in commercial applications. CATL said it plans to leverage its leading expertise in core new energy technologies to work with FAW Jiefang in accelerating the development and adoption of advanced battery technologies. Together, they aim to drive the full electrification of the commercial transportation industry. BAKER CITY Minnesotas indie rock band Bad Bad Hats was touring their third album when they played in May 2022 at Churchill School. Now, following a 10th anniversary release of their first EP and a living room tour in 2023, and the 2024 release of their fourth album, Bad Bad Hats, the band is coming back to Baker City. Well, they came through in 2023 but that was just for scones from Sweet Wife Baking. We made a point to stop by the bakery, lead singer, Kerry Alexander, said with a laugh. Theyd been treated to the bakery items in 2022. Ive been thinking about it ever since, she said. Bad Bad Hats will play at Churchill, 3451 Broadway St., on Tuesday, Jan. 14. Doors open at 6 p.m., and Party Nails opens the show. Tickets are $15 in advance at churchillbaker.com or $20 at the door. Admission is free for ages 15 and younger who attend with a paid adult. Alexander and Chris Hoge formed Bad Bad Hats in 2012. The name is inspired by the Madeline childrens books, most notably Madeline and the Bad Hat. I read those books a lot when I was little, Alexander said. The bad hat is the troublemaker. Although her musical background began with violin lessons, that avenue didnt work out. She started writing lyrics in middle school, and by eighth grade she was playing the guitar. Bad Bad Hats has been through a few changes over the years from three members to four, back to three and then two. Now its a four-piece band again with vocals by Alexander, Hoge on lead electric guitar, Colby Hansen on bass guitar and Joey Hays playing drums. The band piled into a van on Jan. 4 and set out for a three-week West Coast tour. Its a lot more driving, but beautiful scenery, Alexander said. Plus, this tour will cross another state Wyoming off their list. Were determined to play every state, she said. After Cheyenne, we only have six left. Hawaii will probably be the last one. Although all 50 states is still a goal, Bad Bad Hats played in Europe for the first time this year. New album The new album of Bad Bad Hats features songs written over the last four years, and several came from the band releasing new material exclusive to subscribers through Patreon. Every month we write a new song from a musical prompt or theme, she said. Songs from 2020 and 2021, she said, evoke a cooped-up energy. We had a looser approach because we didnt know we were making an album, she said. It allowed us to be creative and a little bit goofy. Listeners can still join at patreon.com/badbadhats. The back catalog of songs is pretty vast, she said. Party Nails Elana Carroll started Party Nails about 10 years ago in Brooklyn, New York, as a side project, then it became her main focus after moving to Los Angeles in 2014. Carroll grew up in a rural area of upstate New York, where she started playing guitar at 11 and singing at open mics. My time growing up coincided with a music store in town, she said. Shes toured her music since 2017. It fully evolved into an artists project, she said. As for her connection with Bad Bad Hats, Carroll met Alexander in 2011 before either of their bands existed. She toured with them in 2018. Bad Bad Hats is very special to me, Carroll said. Theres a lot of trust and respect. You just cant substitute time. For her Baker City show, Carroll will be joined by drummer Anna Crane and shes borrowing bass guitarist Colby Hansen from Bad Bad Hats. Were determined to play every state. After Cheyenne, we only have six left. Hawaii will probably be the last one. {p style=text-align: right;} Kerry Alexander of the Minnesota band Bad Bad Hats Churchill shows Heres a look at upcoming shows at Churchill School in Baker City. For each concert, doors open at 6 p.m. Food and drinks are available to purchase. For show and ticket information, visit churchillbaker.com. Jan. 10: Forest Ray Jan. 14: Bad Bad Hats with Party Nails Jan. 19: The Clement Brothers with Carolyn Kendrick Feb. 17: Illuminati Hotties Feb. 22: Lizzie No with Kasey Anderson Feb. 28: Daniel Villarreal March 8: Wesley Stace with Mare Winningham March 9: Bitch with Skip the Needle March 14: Mentalist Peter Antoniou March 21: Jeshua Marshall and the Flood April 18: Rock n Roll comedy April 30: Wonder Women of Country May 3: Terry Rob May 23: Comedian Steve Hofstetter PORTLAOISE College students Catherine Graham and Isabel OLeary have been recognised as finalists in the 2024 Poetry Aloud competition. The competition challenges second-level students across the island of Ireland to recite a prescribed poem from memory. Catherine and Isabel were among the 358 students who entered this years competition and who emerged as the 29 finalists. Director of the National Library of Ireland Dr Audrey Whitty presenting Catherine Graham with her finalist certificate in the 2024 'Poetry Aloud' competition. The competition was organised by the National Library of Ireland (NLI) and Poetry Ireland, in partnership with University College Cork. The late poet Seamus Heaney was a supporter of the Poetry Aloud competition, citing the extraordinary way in which it seeks to celebrate the joy of speaking and listening to poetry, as well valuing the North-South dimension to the all-island event. Director of the National Library of Ireland Dr Audrey Whitty said: Poetry Aloud is a powerful celebration of spoken word, which brings young people from across the island of Ireland together to breathe fresh life into the work of Irelands greatest poets. Director of Poetry Ireland Liz Kelly said: We are delighted to once again work with colleagues at the National Library of Ireland, UCC and schools all over Ireland. Poetry Ireland is committed to connecting people with poetry and to increasing accessibility for people of all ages and backgrounds. This years judging panel included Dr Audrey Whitty, Director of the National Library of Ireland, Liz Kelly, Director of Poetry Ireland, and Anne Tannam, Poetry Irelands Poet in Residence. New Delhi, January 6: Union Home Minister Amit Shah will launch 'Bharatpol' portal developed by the CBI on Tuesday that will allow state police and other central law enforcement agencies real-time information sharing for faster access to international police assistance through Interpol. The central probe agency has designed the new cutting-edge online platform that will allow police forces of states and Union Territories and central agencies to seamlessly send their requests seeking information from Interpol on fugitives holed abroad or other affairs, officials said. The need to develop rapid and real-time international assistance in criminal investigations was felt due to the growing footprint of transnational crimes including cyber-crime, financial crimes, online radicalization, organised crimes, drug trafficking, human trafficking etc, a statement from the Home Ministry said. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the central government has taken several important initiatives to strengthen the country's law enforcement agencies. Bharatpol portal will significantly facilitate Indian Law Enforcement Agencies enabling real-time information sharing for faster access to international police assistance, it said. Naxal Attack in Chhattisgarh: Amit Shah Vows To Eliminate Naxals by March 2026, Says Sacrifice of Those Killed in Maoist Attack Wont Go in Vain. PTI had first reported the setting up of 'Bharatpol' portal that will facilitate the working of police forces of states and Union Territories. The Central Bureau of Investigation is the National Central Bureau of India solely responsible for Interpol-related affairs. At the central, state, and Union Territory levels, this coordination is executed through Interpol Liaison Officers (ILOs), who are further linked to Unit Officers (UOs) at the level of Superintendents of Police, Commissioners of Police and Branch Heads, within their respective organisations. Presently, communications among the CBI, ILOs, and UOs primarily rely on letters, emails and faxes, it said. The portal will be accessible through its official website, which will bring all the stakeholders on a common platform streamlining the processing of all requests for international assistance through Interpol, including the issuance of Red Notices and other colour-coded Interpol notices, the statement said. The Bharatpol portal will become a transformative tool for field-level police officers, enhancing their efficiency in dealing with crimes and security challenges. By facilitating easier and faster access to international assistance, it will strengthen India's efforts in combating transnational crimes, the statement said. Amit Shah Highlights India's Unique 'Geo-Cultural' Identity at Book Launch. The project designed and executed by the CBI will cut avoidable delays and result in getting more notices published through Interpol in the future, an officer in the know of developments said. Since 2021, as many as 100 wanted criminals, including 26 in 2024, have been returned to India through coordination via Interpol channels. During the function, Shah will present Police Medals to 35 CBI officers and officials, who have been awarded the President's Police Medals for Distinguished Service and the Union Home Minister's Medal for Excellence in Investigation. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi [India], January 6 (ANI): The 15th edition of Asia's largest aerospace and defence exhibition, Aero India 2025, will be held from February 10 to 14, at the Air Force Station, Yelahanka in Bengaluru, Karnataka. According to the Ministry of Defence, this event, themed "The Runway to a Billion Opportunities," aims to foster global partnerships, promote indigenisation, and explore new avenues in the global aerospace value chain. Also Read | Kutch: 18-Year-Old Girl Falls Into Borewell in Gujarat; Rescue Operation On (Watch Video). The first three days of the event--February 10, 11, and 12--will be reserved for business engagements, providing a platform for Indian and foreign companies to collaborate. The final two days, February 13 and 14, will be public days, featuring stunning air displays and static exhibitions of advanced military platforms. Also Read | What Is Pyari Didi Yojana? Know All About Congress' Cash Scheme That Offers INR 2,500 Monthly Financial Assistance Scheme for Women in Delhi. Highlights of the event include the curtain-raiser, the inaugural ceremony, the Defence Ministers' Conclave, the CEOs' Round-Table, the Manthan Start-up Event, and dynamic aerobatic performances. A significant feature of Aero India 2025 is the Defence Ministers' Conclave, themed "BRIDGE - Building Resilience through International Defence and Global Engagement." This platform will encourage strategic partnerships, focusing on global resilience and cooperation amid evolving geopolitical challenges. Bilateral meetings with key officials, including the Raksha Mantri, Raksha Rajya Mantri, Chief of Defence Staff, and others, will further bolster defence ties and pave the way for new collaborations with friendly nations. India's commitment to the Make-in-India initiative will take center stage at the India Pavilion, which will showcase the nation's indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities and cutting-edge technologies. The pavilion will also spotlight innovations by Indian start-ups, with the iDEX Pavilion dedicated to state-of-the-art products developed by entrepreneurs. The CEOs' Round-Table will bring together global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), domestic public sector undertakings, and private sector leaders to explore investment opportunities and discuss the future of aerospace manufacturing in India. In addition, a series of seminars will delve into emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in the aerospace sector. Aero India has a rich legacy, with 14 successful editions since its inception in 1996. The 2023 edition saw over 7 lakh visitors, delegates from 98 countries, and 809 exhibitors, resulting in partnerships and announcements worth more than Rs75,000 crore. Building on this legacy, the 2025 edition aims to surpass previous milestones, promising grander displays, innovative exhibits, and impactful partnerships. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) VMPL London [UK], January 6: The grandeur of British Parliament's House of Commons bore witness to an extraordinary gathering of global changemakers, leaders, and innovators at the International Awards and Summit 2024. Organized under the esteemed patronage of UK Member of Parliament Navendu Mishra and Former MP Virender Sharma, the two-day event stood as a shining testament to the power of collaboration and visionary leadership in tackling global challenges. Also Read | 'Game Changer' Incident: Ram Charan Donates INR 10 Lakh, Pawan Kalyan and Dil Raju Contribute INR 5 Lakh Each After Two Fans Die in Road Accident While Returning From Pre-Release Event. The summit, meticulously organized by The International Summit & Awards (TISA), a proud wing of Msg Advert Pvt Ltd, was spearheaded by its dynamic directors, Nitish Arora and Gaganeet Kaur. Their vision and leadership were instrumental in making this event a landmark occasion, uniting thought leaders from across the globe to celebrate excellence in fields as diverse as education, technology, health, business, and cultural exchange. A Gathering of Global Luminaries Also Read | Salt Typhoon Cyberattack: China-Linked Threat Actor Targeted More US Telecom Firms, Compromised Systems of Charter Communications, Windstream and More, Says Report. With a lineup of esteemed delegates, the event boasted participation from eminent personalities, including: * Dr. Linda S. Spedding, International Lawyer and Advisor (England and Wales) * Mahendra Singh Sisodia, Indian Politician (BJP) * Dr. Nicholas Cadwell, Associate Dean, University of Suffolk, UK * Dr. Dan Brown, Entrepreneur in Residence, UCL, London * Dr. Dinesh Saraswat, Head of Community Outreach, GEDU * Dr. Thomas Lancaster, Principal Teaching Fellow, Imperial College London * Dr. Sanjna Jon, Filmmaker, Director, and Philanthropist (USA) * Fatima Whitbread, Advocate for a Kinder Society * Prof. Christine Bamford, CEO & Founder, Stepping Up Learning Academy * Gina Gardiner, Founder, Genuinely You, UK These distinguished speakers and contributors shared their insights on themes ranging from inclusive leadership to sustainable development, resonating deeply with the summit's mission of fostering bilateral partnerships and inspiring global progress. Recognition of Excellence: The Honours Book at the British Parliament At the heart of the summit was the prestigious Book of Honours ceremony, celebrating individuals and organizations whose outstanding contributions have left an indelible mark on society. Among the awardees were: 1. Yeluri Sambasiva Rao Award: Icon of Political Leadership, Integrity, and Vision * Recognized for his unwavering commitment to public service as a Member of Legislative Assembly from Andhra Pradesh, India. 2. Vikram Narayana Rao Award: Emerging Pharmaceutical Company of the Year * Honored for his visionary leadership as Managing Director of a transformative pharmaceutical enterprise. 3. Skinska Pharmaceutica Limited Award: Emerging Skincare Company of the Year * Received by Ram Chintalapudi, Founder & CMD, for the company's groundbreaking advancements in skincare solutions. 4. Mahantesh Bharathi Award: Educational Motivational Speaker * Celebrated for his inspiring work as Principal of Sapthagiri PU College, Devangere. 5. Praveen Mishra Award: Innovator of the Year * Recognized for his entrepreneurial ingenuity as the Founder of My Ooumph Pvt Ltd. Themes of the Summit: Bridging Innovation and Humanity This year's summit delved into pivotal global topics such as business, trade, investment, technology, politics, education, and cultural exchange. It placed particular emphasis on pressing challenges in health, education, the environment, and technology, offering a platform for innovative solutions and dialogue. In his keynote address, Dr. Dan Brown emphasized the transformative potential of technology in reshaping global industries, while Prof. Christine Bamford shed light on the role of inclusive leadership in fostering equitable growth. The discussions inspired actionable strategies and ignited meaningful collaborations among attendees. A Stellar Leadership: Nitish Arora & Gaganeet Kaur The directors of TISA, Nitish Arora and Gaganeet Kaur, received widespread acclaim for their outstanding organizational skills and visionary approach. Their efforts in curating such a high-calibre event reinforced their commitment to amplifying global excellence. As representatives of Msg Advert Pvt Ltd, they have set a benchmark in hosting international forums that foster dialogue, recognition, and transformative action. In her closing remarks, Gaganeet Kaur extended heartfelt gratitude to the delegates, honorees, and collaborators for their contributions to the summit's success. "This event is more than an awards ceremony; it is a celebration of humanity's collective potential to create a better future," she said. A Legacy of Inspiration and Action The International Awards and Summit 2024 concluded on a note of hope, collaboration, and recognition. It reaffirmed the importance of global partnerships in addressing today's challenges and laid the foundation for a brighter, more sustainable future. With the unparalleled leadership of Nitish Arora and Gaganeet Kaur, TISA continues to build bridges across nations, honoring those who lead with vision, integrity, and compassion. (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) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Saharanpur, January 6: A 26-year-old woman, who was duped by cyber thugs, allegedly committed suicide by consuming poison in Saharanpur district, police officials said Monday. Superintendent of Police (City), Abhimanyu Manglik, told PTI, "Rani, a resident of Mohalla Hamid, consumed poison on Sunday. She died shortly after. Police are investigating the matter." He added that the family have already performed her last rites. What Is Brushing Scam? How To Identify and Protect Yourself From Fraudsters Targeting Online Shoppers? All You Need To Know. According to the police, Rani was engaged to be married soon. She fell victim to a cyber fraud in which a scammer claimed she had won a lottery of Rs 42 lakh and needed to deposit Rs 1.5 lakh as tax. The scammer even sent her a receipt of Rs 42,000 via mobile to gain her trust. The police said Rani managed to collect Rs 1.5 lakh by withdrawing her savings and borrowing from relatives and neighbours. She transferred the money to the scammer's account. Later, when she checked her bank account, she found no deposit reflecting the promised amount. Upon trying to contact the fraudster, she discovered that the phone number had been switched off. What Is Nigerian Prince Scam? How To Protect Yourself From Advance-Fee Fraud? All You Need To Know. Overcome with despair after realizing she had been cheated, Rani consumed poison, officials said. "We are conducting a detailed investigation into the incident," SP Manglik said. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, January 6: A DTC bus conductor fatally shot a driver during a drinking session before surrendering at a police station with the victim's body, officials said on Monday. The incident occurred on Saturday night in the Alipur area in North Delhi district when Yogesh had an argument with Manjeet, both employees of Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC), while drinking alcohol together inside a van, police said. Man Shot at in South Delhi, Two Suspects Detained. As the altercation flared up, an intoxicated Yogesh shot Manjeet on the chest, and drove the van to the Alipur police station with the lifeless body in it in a bid to surrender, they said. "The accused, who confessed to the crime, has been booked for murder," a senior police officer said. Panchkula: 3 From Delhi Shot Dead in Morni Hills in Haryana, Probe Underway. The accused and the victim, both residents of Mohammadpur village, were known to be close friends, the officer said, adding that police are questioning Yogesh to find out what triggered the argument that soon turned fatal for Manjeet. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Chennai, January 6: Two children have tested positive for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and are currently undergoing treatment, a health official said on Monday. These two are the first cases to be reported from the city from two hospitals. Further details are awaited. HMPV Virus Scare: No Patient Infected With Human Metapneumovirus in Mumbai, Says BMC; Urges Citizens To Take Precautions. Meanwhile, officials of the state health department held a meeting to discuss the measures to be taken to screen for HMPV and the precautions to be put in place to contain its spread. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Patna (Bihar) [India], January 6 (ANI): Patna District Magistrate Chandrashekhar Singh on Monday addressed the detention of Jan Suraaj Party leader Prashant Kishor and others, stating that 43 individuals, including Kishor, were detained for illegally protesting in front of the Gandhi statue in the restricted area of Gandhi Maidan. "Some people were illegally protesting in front of the Gandhi statue in the restricted area of Gandhi Maidan. An FIR was lodged at Gandhi Maidan PS for illegally protesting in the restricted area. Even after repeated requests and giving sufficient time, the place was not vacated but they did not move from the restricted area," he said. Also Read | What Is HMPV Virus? How Does It Spread? From Symptoms to Causes and Transmission to Treatment, Here's All You Need To Know About Human Metapneumovirus. "Today, 43 people were detained along with Prashant Kishor. 15 vehicles have been seized. After identification, it was found that there 30 out of 43 people were not students. Some of them are claiming to be students, we are verifying that. If anyone tries to protest here again, strict actions will be taken. The matter has been sent to the court...," he added. Jan Suraaj chief Prashant Kishor was detained by the Patna Police in the early hours of Monday. He was sitting on an indefinite hunger strike seeking action against the alleged BPSC exam paper leak. Also Read | HMPV Virus in India: No Unusual Surge in Respiratory and Influenza-Like Illness, Says Health Ministry As 2 Cases of Human Metapneumovirus Detected in Karnataka. Additionally, Patna Police has vacated the place at Gandhi Maidan where Jan Suraaj chief Prashant Kishor was sitting on a fast-unto-death with the protestors. Patna Police also conducted the checking of the vehicles leaving from the Gandhi Maidan. In its response the Jan Suraaj party which Kishor heads accused the Patna police of high handed behaviour against its supporters and protesting students. "The police administration tried to break Prashant Kishor's fast by taking him from Gandhi Maidan to AIIMS. After failing to break the fast, the administration is trying to take Prashant Kishore to a new place. The police brutally lathicharged the crowd that had gathered to see Prashant Kishore outside AIIMS.," Jan Suraaj posted on X. "Patna police is so scared that they are not even able to bring Prashant Kishor to Patna. He has been kept sitting in a community health center in Fatuha for hours," the party said in anothe post on X. Kishor was observing a fast-unto-death over BPSC irregularities, launched on January 2 in support of the protesting students, who are demanding a cancellation of the Bihar Public Service Commission exam. He was taken into an ambulance by the police. Before being detained, the Jan Suraaj chief said that the party would file a petition in the High Court on January 7 over BPSC irregularities. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Prayagraj, January 6: Thousands of devotees and seers and sages have started arriving at Prayagraj for the upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela. Another seer who has become a center of attraction at the Maha Kumbh 2025 is the Ambassador Baba who arrived at the Mela in his Saffron coloured Ambassador car. Originally from Madhya Pradesh's Indore, Ambassador Baba is more than 50 years old and has attended four Kumbh Melas in his ambassador car. The seer's ambassador car is of the model 1972 and has been with him since the last 30 to 35 years. "I have attended the Kumbh mela four times with this car. I sleep and eat in this car. It is more like my life. It took me a total of one and a half days to reach here. The model of the car is 1972 and I have been driving it for 30 to 35 years now..." Ambassador Baba said speaking to ANI. Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: After Chhotu Baba, Chabhi wale Baba and E-rickshaw Baba, Names of Bavander Baba and Splendor Baba Emerge as Sages Attract Attention at Maha Kumbh with Unique Names. Ambassador Baba Arrives at Prayagraj for Mahakumbh Mela View this post on Instagram A post shared by Asian News International (@ani_trending) After Maha Kumbh, Ambassador Baba plans to drive down to Banaras followed by Ganga Sagar. "After this Kumbh Mela, I will go to Banaras and from there and from there we will go to Ganga Sagar. I take complete care of it myself and this car does not break down everywhere. Only major problems occur when I am around the mechanic," he further added. The Rudraksh Baba who wears 108 rudraksh garlands which consists of a total of 11,000 rudraksh has also become a center of attraction. The weight of these 11,000 Rudrakshas is more than 30 kg. With the number of Rudraksh on the Baba increasing, he has now become famous by the name of Rudraksh baba. Mahakumbh Mela 2025: Journey to the Heart of Sanatan Dharma; Huge Turnout of Devotees Expected in Prayagraj. "People know me as the Rudraksh Baba. These 11,000 rudraksh are the rudras of Lord Shiva. I have been wearing these for a very long time now. These rudras were gifted to me by my worshippers... Every seer wears these rudras.." Rudraksh Baba said speaking to ANI. Rudraksh Baba has attracted a large number of devotees and social media influencers who are uploading his videos on social media. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi [India], January 6 (ANI): Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal on Monday raised concerns about the outbreak of the HMPV virus, urging the Centre to take immediate action. Kejriwal emphasised the importance of drawing from past experiences with the COVID-19 pandemic, stressing the need to contain cases early and prepare for what could potentially escalate into another health emergency. Also Read | Bengaluru Shocker: Software Professional, Wife Die by Suicide After Killing Their 2 Children in Karnataka. Taking to social media, X, Kejriwal wrote in a post, "The outbreak of the HMPV virus calls for immediate attention from the Centre. Drawing from our experience with COVID, it's crucial to contain such cases early and be prepared to tackle what could potentially become another health emergency." https://x.com/arvindkejriwal/status/1876164382339842480?s=48 Also Read | Guru Gobind Singh Birth Anniversary 2025: PM Narendra Modi, Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann and Governor Gulab Chand Kataria Pay Tribute on Parkash Utsav. Earlier today, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) confirmed the detection of two cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka, identified through routine surveillance for respiratory viral pathogens. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah said, "It has been found in two children. I talked to Dinesh Gundurao who is incharge of the health department... He took up a meeting with the department. Whatever decision it takes, the government will implement it. The government will take all precautionary measures and document this disease..." The Ministry of Health, in a release, has stated that these cases were detected as part of ICMR's ongoing efforts to monitor and control respiratory illnesses across the country. HMPV is a respiratory virus that is already circulating globally, including in India. It has been associated with respiratory illnesses in various countries, although there has been no unusual surge in cases in India. The ICMR emphasised that despite the detection of these two cases, there has been no significant increase in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases in the country. One of the affected individuals is a 3-month-old female infant, who was diagnosed with HMPV after being admitted to Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru. She had a history of bronchopneumonia and was discharged after receiving treatment. The second case involves an 8-month-old male infant who tested positive for HMPV on January 3, 2025, following his admission to Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru, also with a history of bronchopneumonia. This infant is currently recovering and is in stable condition. Neither of the infants had any history of international travel, suggesting that the cases are local and not connected to outbreaks outside the country. The Union Health Ministry continues to monitor the situation through all available surveillance channels. Additionally, the ICMR will keep track of HMPV circulation trends throughout the year. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has been providing regular updates on the situation in China to inform public health measures. The recent reports of an outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China, Kerala Health Minister Veena George advised the elderly and pregnant women to wear masks, adding there is no need to panic as of now. "We should all pay attention to some things in the context of the news that there is a major outbreak of viral fever and pneumonia in China. There are no reports of any viruses that are likely to become a pandemic or spread very quickly to other areas in China at this time," George said. She further said that since Malayalis are in all parts of the world, and expatriates from many parts of the world, including China, are coming to our country, we should be "cautious". "According to the available information, three types of viruses can be the cause of the frightening respiratory infections in China. They are human metapneumovirus (HMPV), some variants of Covid-19, and influenza A virus infections. There are no reports of any of these having genetic mutations that could lead to a pandemic. However, as mentioned earlier, we should be cautious," she added. The health minister said that infections, including human metapneumovirus, are more likely to affect children and the elderly, so they, as well as those with other serious illnesses and people receiving palliative care, should be more cautious. "Children should not be sent to school during illness. Those with respiratory symptoms should use masks. There is currently no cause for concern. We are monitoring the situation in China," she said. Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common respiratory virus that causes an upper respiratory infection. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Karnal (Haryana) [India], January 6 (ANI): Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Sunday, urged farmers to come forward for talks without conditions, stating that the central government has already extended an invitation for the dialogue amid ongoing farmers' protest. Khattar further pointed out that farmers didn't engage with the committee set up by the Supreme Court, highlighting the need for cooperation. Also Read | Tripura Bus Fire: Picnic Bus Engulfs in Massive Blaze After Generator Blast, 13 Students Injured (Watch Video). "The central government has already offered to hold talks with the farmers. The farmers also did not come to hold talks with the committee constituted by the Supreme Court. It is not right on behalf of farmers to hold talks with conditions. They should agree to hold talks and look for a solution..," he said. Earlier today, former Delhi Chief Minister and AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal hit out at the BJP-led NDA government at the centre over the ongoing farmers' protest, accusing them of reneging on what he claimed were 'promises' made to the farmers three years back. Also Read | Maharashtra Accident: Couple Killed, 2 Injured in Car Accident on Mumbai-Ahmedabad Highway in Palghar. In a post on X, the AAP national convenor termed the BJP as 'arrogant.' He also said that the ruling party at the centre will be responsible if anything happens to the farmers in Punjab who are on indefinite hunger strikes. "Farmers in Punjab have been staging sit-ins and indefinite hunger strikes for several days. Their demands are the same ones that the central government agreed to three years ago but has yet to implement. The BJP government has now reneged on its promises. The BJP isn't even talking to the farmers. Engage with them--they are our country's farmers. Why is the BJP so arrogant that it refuses to have a conversation?" he wrote in his post. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court granted time to the Punjab government to comply with its December 20 order to provide medical aid and shift to hospital farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a fast-unto-death since November 26. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Sudhanshu Dhulia listed the matter for further hearing on January 2 after Advocate General Gurminder Singh, appearing for the Punjab government, sought more time for compliance with the order. Singh said, "An application has been moved seeking three more days for compliance with the court's December 20 order for providing medical aid and shifting Dallewal to the hospital." (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Chandigarh, Jan 6 (PTI) Contractual employees of Punjab Roadways and Pepsu Road Transportation Corporation began a three-day strike on Monday to press their demands, including regularisation of their jobs. Due to the strike, commuters were left stranded at various bus stands across the state. Also Read | Stock Market Today: Indian Sahre Market Opens Higher, Nifty Crosses 24,000 in Early Trade. According to the protesters, around 2,800 buses of Punjab Roadways and Pepsu Road Transportation Corporation (PRTC) stayed off the roads. Punjab Roadways, Punbus, PRTC Contract Workers' Union president Resham Singh Gill said around 8,000 contractual employees are participating in the strike. Also Read | India IT Services 2025: Indian Information Technology Sector Set for Revival This Year As Macro-Economic Conditions Improve, Says BNP Paribas Report. Demonstrations are being held at all 27 bus depots across the state, he said. The contractual employees have been demanding regularisation of their jobs and a salary hike, among other things, Gill said. A few days ago, the union held a meeting with Punjab Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar regarding its demands but there was no resolution, he said. The protesters said they will march towards Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's residence here on Tuesday as part of their protest. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, Jan 6 (PTI) In the wake of the AAP's claims of mass deletion of voters' from the electoral roll, the district election officer of New Delhi has flagged concerns about political interference and operational disruptions ahead of the upcoming assembly polls. In a series of letters, the district election officer (DEO) alleged undue pressure from the political leaders and sought security measures to ensure the smooth conduct of electoral duties. Also Read | HMPV Virus Detected in Tamil Nadu: 2 Children Test Positive for Human Metapneumovirus in Chennai. In a letter dated January 4 addressed to the chief electoral officer (CEO) of Delhi, he detailed multiple visits by senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders, including Raghav Chadha and Sanjay Singh, to the DEO's office on December 21, 28 and 29, 2024 and January 3, 2025. There have been attempts on their part to exert pressure on me by asking for personal details of objectors and other such information that falls outside the purview of routine operations, the letter to the CEO of Delhi said. Also Read | HMPV Virus Scare: No Patient Infected With Human Metapneumovirus in Mumbai, Says BMC; Urges Citizens To Take Precautions. The DEO further raised concerns about summons from Delhi Chief Minister Atishi. The CM of GNCTD has been calling me for meetings without a specified agenda and in the past also, discussions regarding electoral rolls were held without prior notice, the DEO wrote. Seeking clarity, the officer asked whether such meetings lacking a formal agenda were mandatory to attend. Separately, District Magistrate (DM) Sunny K Singh in another letter dated January 4 to the Office of the CM echoed similar concerns. Referring to an urgent meeting scheduled on January 4, 2025, he noted, At 1:01 pm, a WhatsApp message from your office directed me to attend a meeting called by the CM at 2:00 pm. The agenda of the meeting has not been conveyed, making it difficult for me to come prepared. The DM emphasised that he was engaged in field verification tasks and requested that agendas for future meetings be shared in advance to allow for adequate preparation. Adding to the concerns, Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Nishant Bodh sought police intervention to maintain order at the DEO's office. In a letter to the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Bodh cited growing tensions due to frequent visits by political representatives. Recently, several incidents of ruckus and intimidation have taken place, creating an atmosphere of tension and disrupting the smooth functioning of the DEO's duties, the letter stated. Warning of potential security risks to the DEO and staff, the ADM said, There is a possibility of breach of peace and pressures being imposed on the office functionaries, including the DEO, to disturb the process of conduct of elections. The letter requested the deployment of adequate security personnel and a threat assessment for the DEO to ensure their safety. Earlier in the day, the chief minister alleged a 'voters scam' in the New Delhi constituency from where AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal is contesting the upcoming polls. The escalating concerns come at a crucial time when the AAP has been alleging mass deletion of voters from the electoral roll and this has become a contentious issue as the Delhi Assembly elections slated for February draw near. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Agartala (Tripura) [India], January 6 (ANI): Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha said on Monday that the state government is working on a priority basis to strengthen the health care system in the state, as the government has taken an initiative to build a health hub in Tripura. "The state government is trying to further strengthen the health system in the state of Tripura, with the initiative to build a health hub. In order to speed up health services, nurses must establish a good relationship with the patients' families while providing services to the patients," said CM Saha. Also Read | Uttarakhand Shocker: Minor Female Hockey Player Raped by Coach Who Was Training Players for Upcoming National Games. The CM's comments were made during the oath-taking ceremony of Agartala's Government Nursing College at the IGM Hospital Complex, according to a statement by the CM's office. Additionally, the Chief Minister inaugurated the IT lab at the Nursing College. Also Read | Cyber Fraud in Saharanpur: Woman Falls Victim to Cyber Fraud, Ends Life by Consuming Poison. At the event, the CM, also the Health Minister said the topic of nursing reminds him of Florence Nightingale. "She established the nursing profession as a service-oriented vocation rather than merely a profession. She healed the seriously injured and dying soldiers in the Crimean War through her dedicated service. Some people are born in this world and are forever remembered through their work. One such person was Florence Nightingale, who spread nursing practices worldwide," he said. He further emphasized that the nursing management of any institution must be robust. "Alongside doctors, nurses can enhance the reputation of the institution through their service. There is no substitute for hard work. The students of this nursing institution must move forward, guided by the ideals of Florence Nightingale. One must remember that the work entrusted to me must be done with utmost dedication. Every word of the oath you took today must be upheld and fulfilled with sincerity," said the CM. This year, around 49 students joined the Government Nursing College, according to the CM. "Earlier, securing a seat for a B.Sc. The nursing course was a significant achievement. Today, the college has started with about 50 seats. Previously, there was one dental seat and only 5 to 7 seats for medical courses. Now, the state offers around 400 MBBS seats," the CM said. "The Tripura Medical College authorities have applied for 50 more seats. If approved, the number of medical seats will increase to about 450. An increase in medical students will benefit the state. The IT lab being inaugurated today will also benefit the students," he added. Other dignitaries, including Director of Medical Education Dr H P Sharma, Principal of AGMC Dr Anup Kumar Saha, Additional Secretary of the Health Department Rajiv Dutta, Joint Director of the Health Department Dr Souvik Debbarma, Medical Superintendent of IGM Hospital Dr Debashree Debbarma attended the ceremony. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Guwahati (Assam) [India], January 6 (ANI): Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh offered prayers at the Maa Kamakhya temple in Guwahati on Monday. The Union Minister said that it was the resolution of the Prime Minister that the Northeastern states should develop and progress and for the same a conference would be held. Also Read | Stock Market Today: Indian Share Market Opens Higher, Nifty Crosses 24,000 in Early Trade. "The Northeastern part of the country is the heart of the nation. There is a conference of all the ministers of the Northeast. It is the PM's resolution that these states should develop and progress. I offered prayers at the Maa Kamakhya Devi Temple with the same wish," Singh said speaking to ANI. Further, the Union Minister spoke on the conditions of the Northeastern states and said that there was an improvement in the states when compared to 2014. Also Read | India IT Services 2025: Indian Information Technology Sector Set for Revival This Year As Macro-Economic Conditions Improve, Says BNP Paribas Report. "The condition of the Northeastern states is much better than it was before 2014. There has been progress in every sector. Even the fisheries department, which is my department has also seen a rise of 4 percent... In today's conference we will discuss on how to increase production and productivity even more.." he further added. Further speaking, Singh called Lalu Prasad Yadav an 'animal' and said that he always took the political situation and the country's problems in a lighthearted manner "Lalu Prasad Yadav is an 'animal'. He always takes the political situation and the country's problems in a lighthearted manner. This has been going on since he became the Chief Minister of Bihar and he has been doing the same thing till date. Nitish Kumar had alos said that the tie up with him was a very big mistake. It was because of Yadav that the people of Bihar were in distress and were viewed with disgust..." Singh said. On upcoming Delhi elections, the Union Minister said that they were with the NDA part. "We are with the NDA party. Arvind Kejriwal is known as the other Lalu Prasad Yadav... he is busy in corruption....the people of Delhi have understood him. Is Delhi his property? Delhi is the capital and the people have a right here. The people of Delhi have made up their mind that the BJP will win there..." he said. The assembly elections in Delhi are likely to be held in February 2025. Congress, which was in power in Delhi for 15 successive years, has performed poorly in the past two assembly polls, failing to win any seat. AAP won 62 out of the 70 seats in the 2020 assembly elections and BJP secured eight seats. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, Jan 6 (PTI) The capital punishment handed to Indian nurse Nimisha Priya by a Yemeni court has not been ratified by President Rashad al-Alimi, the West Asian nation's embassy said on Monday. The embassy issued the clarification to a media outlet following its report on the case. Also Read | HMPV Virus Scare: No Patient Infected With Human Metapneumovirus in Mumbai, Says BMC; Urges Citizens To Take Precautions. The Yemeni government emphasises that the entire case has been handled by the Houthi militias, and therefore, Rashad Al-Alimi, Chairman of the Presidential Leadership Council, Yemen has not ratified this judgment, the mission said. Priya, hailing from Kollengode in Kerala's Palakkad district, has been found guilty of murdering a Yemeni citizen in July, 2017. Also Read | BPSC Exam Row: Prashant Kishor Sent to 14-Day Judicial Custody After He Refuses To Accept Bail Conditions (Watch Video). The 37-year-old nurse is presently lodged in a jail in Sana'a, the Yemeni capital city that is under the control of Iran-backed Houthis. According to reports, Priya was handed capital punishment by a trial court in 2020 while Yemen's Supreme Judicial Council upheld the verdict in November 2023. Last week, India said it is closely following the developments in the case. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the government is extending "all possible" help in the matter. "We are closely following the developments around the sentencing of Nimisha Priya. The government is extending all possible help in the matter," he said on Friday. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Jammu (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], January 6 (ANI): The long-awaited approval for the Jammu railway division was celebrated by key political figures including Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and Union Minister Dr. Jitender Singh. The announcement follows the successful trial run of the train between Srinagar and Katra, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to inaugurate the project soon. Also Read | Infosys Salary Hike Delayed: IT Major Reportedly Defers Annual Increment in 4th Quarter of FY 2024-25, Here's Why. CM Omar Abdullah, congratulatedthe people of Jammu and Kashmir for the new rail division and reassured Jammu residents who feared negative impacts from the expansion of the railway network to Srinagar. "People of Jammu feel that if the train goes to Srinagar, Jammu will be at a loss, but I assure you, the train will benefit Jammu as well," Abdullah said. He highlighted that the new service would increase trade and tourism while reducing the high cost of flights during winter months. "With the train to Srinagar, people will benefit from better connectivity," he added. Also Read | Bengaluru Shocker: Software Professional, Wife Die by Suicide After Killing Their 2 Children in Karnataka. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha echoed Abdullah's sentiments, congratulating the people for the new railway division. He credited Prime Minister Modi for overseeing the quick completion of long-pending projects. "Earlier, it took a long time to complete things, but under the guidance of PM Modi, works have been completed quickly and on time. This has led to rapid development," Sinha said. He also noted the substantial growth in investment and infrastructure, pointing out that Jammu would soon boast a world-class railway station, one of only five such stations in India. Sinha emphasized the far-reaching impact of ongoing projects in the region, including the construction of the Chenab Bridge, Anji Bridge, and the upcoming connection between Kashmir and Kanyakumari. "Jammu and Kashmir is currently witnessing Rs40,000 crore worth of railway projects, and work is underway in Baramulla, Uri, Jammu, and Poonch," he explained. Union Minister Dr. Jitender Singh commemorated the historic progress made in rail infrastructure, noting that it took 50 years for the first train to reach Jammu, and now, after a series of challenges, the region is on the cusp of connecting with Srinagar. "In 2014, railways work had stalled due to alignment issues in Reasi. But after the intervention of Suresh Prabhu, work resumed, and today we have the highest bridge in the world here," Singh said. Singh also highlighted the importance of the two Vande Bharat trains that now serve Udhampur and Kathua, calling the introduction of the new division a catalyst for increased tourism and trade. "This will make Jammu the most connected city in North India, with rail, road, and air links," he said. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], January 6 (ANI): Bharat Rashtra Samiti (BRS) MLC K Kavitha on Monday, slammed Telangana CM Revanth Reddy's government for filing false cases against party Working President KTR. "The Revanth Reddy Govt is filing illegal cases against those who raise their voices on behalf of the people. The government is acting vengefully against our party's Working President KTR with false cases. We are not afraid of cases filed against us," she said. Also Read | Infosys Salary Hike Delayed: IT Major Reportedly Defers Annual Increment in 4th Quarter of FY 2024-25, Here's Why. Kavitha criticized the Congress government for failing to fulfil its promises, including reducing the Rythu Bandhu scheme benefits from Rs15,000 to Rs12,000, which she claimed has deceived farmers. "Our fight for the rights of the people will continue relentlessly. Congress promised Rs15,000 under Rythu Bandhu but reduced it to Rs12,000, deceiving the farmers," she said. Also Read | Bengaluru Shocker: Software Professional, Wife Die by Suicide After Killing Their 2 Children in Karnataka. MLC Kavitha stated that BRS workers are holding widespread protests throughout the state in response to this betrayal. The government, fearing these protests, is resorting to harassment through illegal cases. She further said that "the Congress government cannot escape punishment in the people's court." Earlier on Sunday, Bharat Rashtra Samiti (BRS) working president KT Rama Rao accused the Telangana government of betraying its commitment to farmers of the state and announced to hold a protest on January 6 demanding the Congress to raise the assistance to Rs 15,000 per acre as initially promised. Speaking to ANI, KTR said, "It is a travesty and truly atrocious breach of promise by Congress party in Telangana to deceive and betray farmers of Telangana...Congress party had made a promise, a categorical farmer declaration in Warangal and Rahul Gandhi was here in Telangana. They made a categorical commitment that Rythu Bandhu would be enhanced and each farmer who was getting Rs 10,000 for two crop cycles in Telangana would be given an additional Rs 5000." Earlier on December 12, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy ordered officials to release amounts under the Rythu Bandhu scheme into the farmers' accounts. "CM Revanth Anumula directed to start the process of depositing 'Rythu Bandhu' funds in their accounts to all the farmers in the state from today," the Telangana Chief Minister's Office said in a post on 'X'. As per his government's promise, the Chief Minister ordered the top officials to prepare an appropriate action plan to waive off the loans of Rs 2 lakh to the farmers of the state, the CMO said. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Malappuram (Kerala), Jan 6 (PTI) The Kerala government on Monday handed over Rs five lakh as compensation to the family members of a tribal man who was trampled to death by a wild elephant inside dense forest near Nilambur in this north Kerala district two days ago. Forest Minister A K Saseendran visited Mani's hapless family in their hamlet inside the forest and handed over Rs five lakh as the first installment of the total Rs 10 lakh announced as the solatium by the wildlife department. Also Read | Bengaluru Shocker: IIM-B Student Dies After Falling off Second Floor of Hostel, Sparks Debate on Caste Discrimination. The minister travelled 18 km through the dense forest from Nedumkayam to reach the hamlet and consoled the tribal family, an official statement said. Saseendran met Mani's daughter Meera and brother Ayyappan at Kannikkai and handed over the financial assistance, it said. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Receives Letter From President Joe Biden, Affirms Commitment To Solidify India-US Partnership. The minister also assured them of continued support from the government and the forest department. Forest officials also accompanied the minister during his visit. Thirty-seven-year-old Mani lost his life after being trampled by a wild elephant while walking through the forest near Nilambur on Saturday evening. The incident occurred at the Poochappara settlement in the Karulai forest range when Mani, a member of the Cholanaikkan community, and a group of others were returning to their hamlet after dropping his children at a tribal hostel. Despite the sudden elephant attack, the others in the group, including two elders, three youth aged 18 19, and Mani's five-year-old child, managed to escape unhurt, according to locals. Upon learning about the attack, Mani's brother rushed to the scene and carried him on his shoulders for over 1.5 kilometres to reach an area accessible by vehicles. Mani was then taken to the government hospital in Nilambur, but he succumbed to his injuries. Workers of the Democratic Movement of Kerala (DMK), a social collective led by Nilambur MLA P V Anvar, vandalised the DFO office here on Sunday over the incident. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Mumbai, January 6: Maharashtra Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate has said the Ladki Bahin Yojana is creating a burden on the state coffers, affecting its ability to implement the farm loan waiver scheme. The Ladki Bahin scheme, launched by the previous Eknath Shinde-led government in August last year to provide a monthly allowance of Rs 1,500 to eligible women, is likely to cost the state around Rs 46,000 crore annually. The scheme is said to have played a key role in the ruling Mahayuti's win in the state assembly elections held in November 2024. Speaking to reporters in Pune on Sunday, Kokate said the financial strain caused by the Ladki Bahin Yojana has disrupted the state's ability to form a surplus that would otherwise be allocated for waiving the loans of farmers. Ladki Bahin Yojana Benefits To Stop for Ineligible Women, Maharashtra Government To Scrutinise List of Beneficiaries To Ensure Cash Payments Only To Eligible People. "The burden created by the Ladki Bahin scheme has affected our ability to set aside funds for the farm loan waiver. We are reviewing the financial situation, and once the state's income increases, we will move forward with the loan waiver scheme in the next four to six months," the NCP leader said. The state cooperation department is responsible for implementing the loan waiver decision, which will ultimately be made by the chief minister and deputy CMs, he said. Ladki Bahin Yojana: These Beneficiary Women To Receive INR 9,000 in December Installment, Check Details. Maharashtra Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare last week said the state government has decided to act on complaints about bogus beneficiaries of the Ladki Bahin Yojana, and sought information from the income tax and transport departments for their verification. She also made it clear that the government would only address complaints pertaining to the bogus beneficiaries. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Thane, Jan 6 (PTI) Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik will present a proposal to launch a cable car project in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region during a meeting of transport ministers in Delhi on Tuesday. Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari will chair the meeting to discuss the ambitious Developed India 2047 initiative, a release stated on Monday. Also Read | Atul Subhash Suicide Case: Karnataka High Court Rejects Plea for Quashing of FIR Against Nikita Singhania in Connection With Suicide of Bengaluru Techie. Sarnaik will present a proposal during the meeting to implement a cable car project in MMR under the Central Government's Parvatmala Project. "The cable car project will provide an aerial alternative to traditional public transport alleviating congestion while preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the region," Sarnaik stated. Also Read | Maiya Samman Yojana: Hemant Soren Led-Jharkhand Government Transfers INR 2,500 Each to 56 Lakh Women Under Scheme. The cable car project proposes ropeway services to complement existing road, rail, and metro systems and the preservation of ecological and cultural landmarks such as Elephanta Caves, Matheran, and Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Feasibility surveys and Development Plan Reports (DPRs) are to be prepared post-approval, the minister added. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Patna (Bihar) [India], January 6 (ANI): Y.V Giri, Jan Suraj Party Chief Prashant Kishor's Advocate, on Monday condemned the police's alleged brutality against Kishor and his supporters, who were peacefully protesting in support of students. Giri claimed the police physically lifted, pushed, and punched the protesters, including Kishor, who was slapped without justification, violating Section 21. Also Read | What Is HMPV Virus? How Does It Spread? From Symptoms to Causes and Transmission to Treatment, Here's All You Need To Know About Human Metapneumovirus. "There's a rule of law in our country, and it will take its course, favouring the students, Prashant Kishore, and Jan Swaraj. However, the police have taken the law into their own hands, behaving barbarically without reason. They disrupted a peaceful protest led by Prashant Kishore, where people were fasting and sleeping, by physically lifting, pushing, and punching them. Prashant Kishore was even slapped without justification, violating Section 21. This move appears to be a government attempt to hide the misdeeds of the Bihar Public Service Commission. The student movement, supported by Prashant Kishore, was disrupted to avoid re-examination. As a result, Prashant Kishore's arrest was made under false pretences. Unfortunately, his current whereabouts are unknown, with reports suggesting he was taken to AIIMS and then relocated to an undisclosed location," he said. "This protest was a peaceful Satyagraha, inspired by Gandhi's principles and aligned with the High Court's orders. Students were exercising their democratic rights, and Prashant Kishor was there to boost their morale. Since Gandhi Maidan is a public space, we didn't expect any issues. It's a place where thousands of people gather daily, so it's surprising that it's being treated as a prohibited area," he added. Also Read | HMPV Virus in India: No Unusual Surge in Respiratory and Influenza-Like Illness, Says Health Ministry As 2 Cases of Human Metapneumovirus Detected in Karnataka. Y.V Giri demanded authorities to produce Prashant Kishore in court, asserts no offence committed, vows to move High Court to quash FIR and secure bail. "The authorities must produce Prashant Kishore in court, regardless of where he's being hidden by them. The judicial process will then commence, and we're confident that Prashant Kishore's supporters, students and the affected candidates will have a strong case. Since no offence has been committed, we'll take this matter to the High Court, where we expect the FIR against him to be quashed and for him to be granted bail," he said. Meanwhile, the Jan Suraaj party in a post on X claimed that Kishor had been detained in Fatuah and accused the Patna police of High handed behaviour. "Patna police is so scared that they are not even able to bring Prashant Kishore to Patna. He has been kept sitting in a community health centre in Fatuha for hours, " the Party posted on X. "The police administration tried to break Prashant Kishore's fast by taking him from Gandhi Maidan to AIIMS. After failing to break the fast, the administration is trying to take Prashant Kishore to a new place. The police brutally lathicharged the crowd that had gathered to see Prashant Kishore outside AIIMS," the party further added. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, Jan 6 (PTI) BJP's minority morcha president Jamal Siddiqui has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to rename India Gate as "Bharat Mata Dwar". Siddiqui in his letter claimed that the government under Modi has worked to heal the wounds inflicted by "Mughal invaders" and "British robbers", saying it has made the country happy by erasing the taints of slavery. Also Read | Sex Ratio Decline Concerns: MP's Harda Admin Offers Discounts to Parents With Only Daughters on Groceries, in Schools and Hospitals To Boost Sex Ratio. "Renaming India Gate as Bharat Mata Dwar will be a true tribute to thousands of patriots, who made the supreme sacrifice and whose names are inscribed on its structure," he said. He noted that the Modi government has rechristened the road named after Aurangzeb as A P J Kalam Road and replaced the statue of King George V in India Gate with Subhas Chandra Bose. Also Read | 'Dam Over Brahmaputra River in Tibet Won't Impact Water Flows to India': China After New Delhi Expresses Concerns. Raj Path was renamed as Kartavya Path, lining it with the Indian culture, he said, adding the name Bharat Mata Dwar can be given to India Gate in a similar vein. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, Jan 6 (PTI) Calling it a "classic case" of the state authorities not paying compensation to villagers after acquiring their land, the Supreme Court on Monday warned the Maharashtra government officials to disburse funds by January 31 or face contempt action. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh was hearing the case over the land acquired from the villagers of Jambhalkhori Borphadi in Beed district of Maharashtra for construction of a water tank under the Employees Guarantee Scheme in 2005. Also Read | Delhi Shooting: DTC Bus Conductor Shoots Driver Over Drinks in Alipur, Surrenders Before Police With Victim's Bod. "This is a classic case where authorities of Maharashtra government denied the compensation to the people whose land was compulsorily acquired," said the bench. It came on the record, despite the orders for payment of over Rs 1.49 crore attaining finality, compensation was not paid to the aggrieved villagers. Also Read | HMPV Virus: Not Deadly, No Evidence of Mortality or Severe Transmission Rate Says Former ICMR Scientist Dr Raman Gangakhedkar (Watch Video). "We are completely disappointed to see the manner in which the state authorities have conducted themselves in this case," the top court said. Saying it had adopted a lenient view and not issued a notice on the plea filed on behalf of zila parishad of Beed district or heard the erring officials, the apex court chose not to comment further on the issue. The court however issued a slew of directions and directed the state's chief secretary, principal secretary (finance) and principal secretary (panchayat and rural development) to take cognisance of the matter within one week. "Issue necessary sanction for the release of compensation amount to the respondents (villagers) along with the interests till date as also exemplary cost that may be determined by the reference court," it held. Going by the directive, due payments will have to be made to the landowners and other similarly-placed persons by January 31 with filing of compliance reports in the high court. The bench directed the collector of Beed district to act as a nodal officer and ensure the villagers received the money. "The chief secretary is further directed to seek the explanation of collector Beed and thereafter determine which is the department concerned liable to pay the compensation and take suitable action against the erring officials," it said. The bench said if the exercise was not carried out by January 31, the registrar general of Bombay High Court would hear the case for registration of suo motu contempt proceedings against all officers concerned and proceed with the contempt of court case. "The cost amount of Rs 1 lakh imposed by the high court shall be recovered personally from the officers found guilty/responsible for non-payment of compensation amount," it directed. The top court said instead of suo motu summoning the collector and awarding a befitting sentence for contempt of court, the high court made certain observations against that officer in its order on November 18, 2024. It noted after the authorities did not pay the compensation to the villagers, they moved the court for execution of the award. The civil judge then attached the bank account of zila parishad as one of the coercive measures for the recovery of the compensation amount but the parishad moved the Aurangabad bench of the Bombay High Court. It was argued the state government, through the Beed collector, and not the zila parishad, was liable to pay the compensation. On November 18, 2024, the high court said there were a number of schemes floated by the state government for distribution of money including "Ladki Bahin", etc., and it clearly showed there was no dearth of funds. The high court said the lands of the claimants were acquired as early as 2005, and despite its orders they were denied the compensation in the last 19 years. While dismissing the plea, the high court imposed Rs 1 lakh as costs on the Beed collector or zila parishad, jointly or severally, for their failure to pay the compensation. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Chennai, Jan 6 (PTI) Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi left the State Assembly in "deep anguish" over the "brazen disrespect to the Constitution and the National Anthem," on Monday, the Raj Bhavan said. Ravi arrived at the House to deliver the customary address to the members. Also Read | Infosys Salary Hike Deferred: Report Says IT Firm Postpones Annual Raise to Fourth Quarter for Current Financial Year, Heres What It Means for Employees. He made fervent appeal to Chief Minister M K Stalin and Speaker M Appavu for singing the National Anthem but they "cussedly refused," the Governor's office alleged in a post on social media post 'X.' "The Constitution of Bharat and the National Anthem were once again insulted in the Tamil Nadu Assembly today. Respecting the National Anthem is among the first Fundamental Duty as enshrined in our Constitution. It is sung in all the state legislatures at the beginning and the end of Governor's address." Also Read | Kolkata Fatafat Result Today: Kolkata FF Result for January 6, 2024 Declared, Check Winning Numbers and Result Chart of Satta Matka-Type Lottery Game. "Today on arrival of Governor to the House only Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu was sung. Governor respectfully reminded the House of its Constitutional duty and fervently appealed to the Hon'ble Chief Minister who is the Leader of the House and the Hon'ble Speaker for singing the National Anthem. However, they cussedly refused. It is a matter of grave concern. Not to be a party to such brazen disrespect to the Constitution and the National Anthem, Governor in deep anguish left the House," it said. The post uploaded by the Raj Bhavan was briefly removed for a while before being re-posted on the micro-blogging site. Last year, Ravi had concluded his customary address to the House within a few minutes, making certain remarks over the content of the address that were later 'expunged.' The Raj Bhavan had then alleged Ravi's advice to the Tamil Nadu government to show due respect to the national anthem and play it at the beginning and end of the Governor's address to the Assembly was ignored by the DMK regime. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Prayagraj, January 6: Awanish Kumar Awasthi, advisor to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday inspected the information complex built for Mahakumbh Mela 2025. Speaking to ANI, Awasthi stated that the Chief Minister has estimated that the number of devotees visiting the Mahakumbh area would almost double what it was in 2019, adding that 25 crore people visited Prayagraj during Kumbh 2019. As he was inspecting the information complex, Awasthi stated that a big centre has been built to accommodate all the media persons, whether national, international or social media influencers. Mahakumbh Mela 2025: Preparations Underway for Shahi Snan in Prayagraj, Spots Adorned With Colourful Tents. Awanish Kumar Awasthi Inspects Information Complex Built for Mahakumbh #WATCH | Prayagraj, UP | Awanish Kumar Awasthi, advisor to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, inspected the information complex built for Mahakumbh Mela 2025. pic.twitter.com/0O4fK13Jnq ANI (@ANI) January 5, 2025 Highlighting the preparations, Uttar Pradesh CM's Advisor said, "25 crore people had come to Kumbh in 2019. This time it's Maha Kumbh...CM Yogi Adityanath has estimated that almost double the number of people will come this time. Today he has instructed all the officers that we all should go and see the spot and ensure that whatever finishing touches are to be given to the system and the work is done...A big centre has been built to accommodate all the international and national media people, social media people, influencers and all the people. The press room is double as the last time. The entire set-up of the workstation inside here looks three times bigger to me and it is very beautiful..." Mahakumbh Mela 2025: Journey to the Heart of Sanatan Dharma; Huge Turnout of Devotees Expected in Prayagraj. Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh government has implemented extensive security measures and made elaborate arrangements to ensure a safe and grand celebration of Maha Kumbh 2025. With the deployment of thousands of AI-powered CCTVs, underwater drones, and state-of-the-art facilities for visitors and devotees, the state government and administration are ready for the grand mela, scheduled to begin on January 13 in Prayagraj. The Maha Kumbh, held once every 12 years, will conclude on February 26. On Sunday, police and paramilitary forces conducted security checks and area domination patrolling to ensure security preparedness in the mela area. Jagdish Kaliraman, ACP (Parade Area Kumbh), said that they are conducting regular checks and monitoring based on instructions from senior officials. "We are doing security checks constantly at the parade point, as the public will enter and exit from this point. It is a sensitive point, so manual and equipment-based checking is ongoing. We are also checking at the district hospital where people come for health check-ups," the ACP said. Prayagraj Commissioner of Police, Tarun Gauba, also visited various akharas and interacted with saints and sadhus to assess the arrangements. Additionally, the Uttar Pradesh government has deployed 40 electric buses for devotees, with 30 more buses expected from Lucknow to ensure seamless transportation across various routes. As Maha Kumbh preparations intensify, multiple sages and akharas are also drawing attention. Notable figures such as Bavander Baba, who travelled over 100,000 kilometres, and Splendor Baba, a differently-abled individual who journeyed from Gujarat on a three-wheeler motorcycle, are attending the Kumbh Mela. The main bathing rituals (Shahi Snan) of the Kumbh will take place on January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami). Pilgrims will gather at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, to take a holy dip believed to absolve sins and grant moksha (liberation). The Maha Kumbh Mela is expected to host over 45 crore visitors. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, Jan 6 (PTI) Paints and coatings maker Akzo Nobel India Ltd on Monday said its board has approved exploring the sale of its powder coatings business and R&D operations to a separate indirect wholly-owned arm, Akzo Nobel NV, following a request by the parent firm. Akzo Nobel NV (ANNV), the parent entity of Akzo Nobel India Ltd, has requested the Board of Directors of the company to consider, evaluate and start taking exploratory steps towards a potential sale of the company's powder coatings business and its international research centre (R&D operations) to a separate indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of ANNV, the company said in a regulatory filing. Also Read | AP SBTET Diploma Results For 2024-25 Released, Know Steps To Check Scorecard at sbtet.ap.gov.in. Besides, Akzo Nobel India has asked to explore the potential acquisition of decorative paints intellectual properties owned by ANNV, the company added. "The Board of Directors of the company, at its meeting held on January 6, 2025, took note of the above said and authorised the company's management to commence exploratory steps as may be required to evaluate and examine the aforesaid potential transactions," the filing said. Also Read | What Is Whaling Attack? How To Prevent It? All About Phishing Scam That Targets High-Ranking Employees. The board has also mandated that the same shall be subject to further consideration and deliberation to be carried out by the Board of Directors at the relevant point in time and the procedures to be followed by the company as per applicable laws, it added. Akzo Nobel India has a presence in a wide range of paints and coatings segments spanning from decorative paints; automotive and speciality coatings; industrial coatings; marine, protective and yacht coatings to powder coatings. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Kolkata, Jan 6 (PTI) Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd on Monday handed over its first driverless, Made-in-India trainset to Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation's Yellow Line, marking a significant milestone in India's urban mobility journey. The company built the trainset in its metro manufacturing facility in Uttarpara in West Bengal. Also Read | AP SBTET Diploma Results For 2024-25 Released, Know Steps To Check Scorecard at sbtet.ap.gov.in. The automated train with a stainless steel body, designed for state-of-the-art performance, will operate on the 18-km stretch linking Electronics City to the rest of Bengaluru. Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, who joined the celebrations virtually, commended Titagarh Rail Systems. Also Read | What Is Whaling Attack? How To Prevent It? All About Phishing Scam That Targets High-Ranking Employees. "As we inaugurate Bengaluru Metro's new trainset and surpass 1,000 kilometres of operational metro rail, we celebrate a significant milestone in India's urban mobility journey... With India now ranking third globally in metro rail, we aim to surpass the United States within five years," he said. Titagarh Rail Systems' Managing Director, Umesh Chowdhary, said the train incorporates advanced automation that enables it to operate in driverless mode. "It marks a significant milestone as the first Metro train completely manufactured in India for Bangalore Metro's Yellow Line and the first stainless steel trainset by Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd. It reflects India's strides in indigenisation and its growing role as a global rail manufacturing hub, aligning with the Prime Minister's vision of a Viksit Bharat," the company said. Titagarh will deliver two more trainsets to the Yellow Line by April and ramp up production to deliver two trains a month by September 2025. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Dhaka [Bangladesh], January 6 (ANI): Bangladesh has cancelled the participation of its judicial officials in training sessions scheduled to be held at the National Judicial Academy in Bhopal and a state judicial academy in India in February, Dhaka Tribune reported. Bangladesh's Ministry of Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs announced the decision in a circular released on Sunday. The cancellation of the earlier approval for judicial officials to participate in the training program from February 10-20 came in compliance with the directives issued by the Supreme Court, according to the circular, according to the Dhaka Tribune report. Also Read | Donald Trump Inauguration 2025 Date, Time, Venue: When and Where US President-Elect Will Take Oath? Know All About Inauguration Day of 47th President of the United States. Earlier on December 30, a notification was issued which granted permission to 50 officials to attend the training. The nominated officials comprised Assistant Judges, Senior Assistant Judges, Joint District and Sessions Judges, Additional District and Sessions Judges, District and Sessions Judges, and other equivalent-level officers, Dhaka Tribune reported. According to the circular, the Indian government had to pay for all the expenses for the training, with no financial involvement from the government of Bangladesh. The cancelled program was part of a bilateral understanding signed during Bangladesh's then-PM Sheikh Hasina's visit to India in April 2017. Also Read | Global Power City Index 2024: Dubai Ranks Among World's Top 10 Cities in GPCI for Second Consecutive Year. According to the agreement, judicial training was to be given to enhance the capacity and expertise of Bangladeshi judicial officials at India's National Judicial Academy and other institutions. Earlier on January 3, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reaffirmed India's support for a "democratic stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh" and called people of two nations as the main stakeholders in the ties between New Delhi and Dhaka. "As far as general approach to the other question also general approach to our relations with Bangladesh is concerned we have made it very clear and I would like to repeat again these this approach of ours to fostering ties with Bangladesh was made very clear during Foreign Secretary's visit to Dhaka where he highlighted India's support for a democratic stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in the weekly press briefing on Friday. The comments come on the heels of the interim government in Bangladesh led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus demanding the extradition of Sheikh Hasina from India. Earlier in August, Hasina fled to India following a massive student-led protest. The MEA spokesperson also emphasised that Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, during his visit to Bangladesh, reiterated India's willingness to build a positive and constructive relationship with Bangladesh based on mutual trust, respect and mutual sensitivity to each other's concerns and interests. "He (Misri) also emphasized that people are the main stakeholders in Bangladesh-India relations and noted that India's development cooperation and multi-faceted engagements with Bangladesh, including in areas of trade, connectivity and other capacity-building areas, are all geared towards the benefit of the people of Bangladesh. So, you know, that has been our approach", Jaiswal added. Speaking of the recent developments in Bangladesh, he said, "There are several developments that are happening. There are developments happening on a daily basis, but our generic approach to Bangladesh is what I told you. We would like to foster these ties." (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Tel Aviv [Israel], January 6 (ANI): Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office has refuted reports that claimed Hamas had given a list of hostages to be released in a potential ceasefire agreement on Sunday, Fox News reported. The statement of Israel's PM office came after it was reported by a UK-based news agency that Hamas had approved a list of 34 hostages that it would release in exchange for a ceasefire agreement. According to them, Hamas said the deal was contingent on Israel's agreement to withdraw from Gaza and implement a permanent ceasefire, Fox News reported. Also Read | Donald Trump Inauguration 2025 Date, Time, Venue: When and Where US President-Elect Will Take Oath? Know All About Inauguration Day of 47th President of the United States. In a statement, Netanyahu's office said, "Contrary to what was claimed, Hamas has not forwarded a list of names of hostages until this moment." Currently, Netanyahu is leading the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on multiple fronts across the Middle East. The statement comes days after Netanyahu was discharged from hospital on Thursday following his prostate surgery. According to his office, Netanyahu was in good condition and fully conscious following the surgery, Fox News reported. Also Read | Global Power City Index 2024: Dubai Ranks Among World's Top 10 Cities in GPCI for Second Consecutive Year. Meanwhile, IDF has announced that it has conducted a drone strike against a group of Hamas operatives at a command center in the Israeli-designated humanitarian zone in southern Gaza, The Times of Israel reported. According to the Israeli military, the compound in the Khan Younis area of the humanitarian zone was used by the Hamas operatives to plan and conduct attacks against troops in Gaza and against Israel. The IDF said that a separate strike was carried out in the Deir al-Balah area of the humanitarian zone targeting a Palestinian Islamic Jihad operative who had conducted previous attacks from the area. The IDF said that it took measures to mitigate civilian harm in both strikes, according to The Times of Israel report. The IDF said that a Palestinian Islamic Jihad company commander who participated in the October 7, 2023, onslaught, was killed by troops during recent operations in northern Gaza's Jabalia. According to the Israeli military, Saad Said Zaki Dahnon, an Islamic Jihad company commander and the deputy head of the terror group's rocket division in northern Gaza, was killed in a close-quarters battle with troops of the Givati Brigade, The Times of Israel reported. The IDF said that Dahnon had infiltrated Israel and participated in the October 7 attack and was also involved in several attacks against troops in the Beit Lahiya area. The IDF released a video which showed Dahnon and other terrorist covering themselves in blankets and trying to approach soldiers under the cover of darkness and rainy weather, the report said. It said that Dahnon was killed, while the second operative surrendered to soldiers. The second operative was having an explosive device and was brought to Israel for further questioning, according to the IDF. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Islamabad [Pakistan], January 6 (ANI): Growing tensions between the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) escalated on Sunday after the PPP criticised the federal government for unilaterally establishing the Pakistan Maritime and Seaport Authority, Dawn reported. PPP leaders have reminded the PML-N-led government of the pivotal role PPP plays in supporting the coalition's survival, urging the Centre to respect constitutional protocols and consult its allies on key decisions. Also Read | Justin Trudeau Expected To Resign: Canadian PM To Announce His Resignation As Liberal Party Leader, Says Report. The friction between the two political allies has been building for some time, with recent efforts to restore mutual trust failing to yield results. A meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and PPP Co-Chairman Asif Ali Zardari intended to mend relations did little to bridge the growing divide. The establishment of the maritime authority has only added to the simmering tensions, further straining the partnership that underpins the federal government. Also Read | South Korea: Anti-Corruption Agency Asks Police To Take Over Efforts To Detain Impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol. In a strongly worded statement on Sunday, PPP leader Shazia Marri called out the PML-N government for excluding her party from discussions on establishing the maritime authority. "While we have said it again and again that the federal government has PPP's support, the day we withdraw that support, the federal government will collapse," she warned, adding, "Perhaps, the PML-N does not realise this." Marri highlighted that both the Sindh government and the PPP were not informed about the creation of the authority. She also emphasised the party's longstanding demand for a Council of Common Interests (CCI) meeting, which had not been convened for 11 months. "The Constitution is being constantly and openly violated," she stated, reminding the prime minister that he is "constitutionally bound to convene a meeting of the Council of Common Interests within three months." Marri insisted that the formation of the maritime authority should be brought before the CCI and questioned the government's decision to bypass constitutional requirements, asking, "Is it wise to sabotage the Constitution on important national issues, without taking allies and provinces into confidence?" Criticising the Centre's approach, Marri described it as "beyond understandable" and warned that it would only deepen the rift between the allies. She urged the federal government to incorporate the opinions of provinces and allies when addressing maritime sector reforms, the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) proposals, and related issues, reported Dawn. "The opinion of allies and provinces should be taken before the recommendations of the task force on the maritime sector, maritime affairs, and KPT proposals," she said, emphasising that adhering to constitutional and legal principles would benefit everyone. In response, Federal Maritime Affairs Minister Qaisar Ahmed Sheikh refuted the PPP's claims, asserting that the party's leadership, including Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, was informed about the authority's formation. "I have already talked with Murad Ali Shah on the matter and two PPP leaders, Mehreen Bhutto and Asad Niazi, spent a whole day with me on Saturday, and we discussed the issue," Sheikh said. He added that he resides in Karachi and regularly updates the PPP leadership and Sindh government on maritime matters. Sheikh further clarified that a task force including all stakeholders had been established to oversee the new authority. Amid these disputes, other issues have exacerbated tensions. The PPP has criticised the federal government for internet restrictions, with Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari labelling them as censorship. Protests by PPP lawmakers, including parliamentary walkouts over federal ministers' absence, signal deepening discord. However, Bhutto-Zardari has advised his party to continue working with the PML-N government to maintain stability, Dawn reported. Despite these challenges, political analysts believe that a shared opposition to former Prime Minister Imran Khan will likely push the PPP and PML-N to keep their coalition intact. With support from the establishment, this uneasy alliance continues to navigate internal disagreements while focusing on preserving the current political setup. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Islamabad [Pakistan], January 6 (ANI): Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Shazia Marri has said that the party might withdraw its support from the federal government due to a lack of trust in important decisions, emphasising that the government will collapse if PPP pulls out support, The Express Tribune reported. In a statement, Shazia Marri strongly reacted to the Maritime and Shipping Port Authority decision. She said that Pakistan's federal government is consistently taking decisions without holding discussions with the PPP, including the formation of the Pakistan Maritime and Shipping Port Authority. Also Read | Donald Trump Inauguration 2025 Date, Time, Venue: When and Where US President-Elect Will Take Oath? Know All About Inauguration Day of 47th President of the United States. She said that both the PPP and the Sindh government were kept in the dark regarding the formation of the authority. She reiterated that the government will remain in power until PPP continues its support. However, she noted that the government will collapse if the PPP withdraws support, according to The Express Tribune report. Shazia Marri noted that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) might not realize this and added that the PPP had been calling for the convening of the National Interest Council meeting for a long time. However, it has not been called in eleven months. Also Read | Global Power City Index 2024: Dubai Ranks Among World's Top 10 Cities in GPCI for Second Consecutive Year. PPP leader pointed out the ongoing violation of the constitution by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who is legally bound to convene the Council of Common Interests every three months. She called for bringing up the matter of the formation of the Maritime and Shipping Port Authority to the Council of Common Interests, stressing that decisions on key national issues should not be made without discussions with the allies and provinces, as per the report. PPP spokesperson termed the federal government's actions incomprehensible and added that they could cause deeper divisions. She called for governing the country by constitutional and legal principles, with consultations with allies and provinces before making decisions on maritime issues and port authority recommendations. Earlier, Punjab's Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan said the alliance of the PML-N and the PPP has damaged the latter in Punjab. He predicted that it was the PML-N's turn to bear the brunt of the alliance, The Express Tribune reported. Khan, who belongs to the PPP, assumed office after PML-N and PPP had a power-sharing deal following the February 8 general elections. As per the agreement, the PPP opted for the constitutional positions of the president, governorship of two provinces - Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Senate chairmanship in return for supporting the PML-N-led federal government. Before the emergence of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the PPP and PML-N were arch rivals and the two parties had a history of turf war in Punjab which the PML-N had snatched from the PPP. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Islamabad, Jan 6 (PTI) A Pakistan court on Monday postponed until January 13 its verdict in the 190 million pounds Al-Qadir Trust corruption case against former prime minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi. Judge Nasir Javed Rana of the anti-corruption court had completed the hearing on December 18 but reserved the judgment until December 23. Later he fixed January 6 as the new date for announcing the verdict, Geo News reported. Also Read | Goldman Sachs Projects India Among Top Emerging Markets in 2025, Forecasts 18-20% Earnings Growth Amid Strong Macroeconomic Stability. Noting that Judge Rana was on leave on Monday, the court staff said that the decision would now be announced on January 13. The court also informed about the deferment of the verdict to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) prosecutor as well as his lawyer. Also Read | CES 2025: Samsung To Unveil Home AI, 8K QLED TV, AI-Connected Home Appliances During Consumer Electronics Show 2025 Starting on January 7. The postponement comes amidst the ongoing negotiation between the government and Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party to address the political instability in the country due to the imprisonment of the former premier and several other leaders of the party. So far two rounds of talks have been held and another is expected this week. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in December 2023 filed the case against Khan (72), Bibi (50) and six others, accusing them of causing a loss to the tune of 190 million pounds (PRs50 billion) to the national kitty. However, Khan and Bibi have been prosecuted as all others, including a property tycoon, were out of the country. Both Khan and Bibi are accused in the case, which revolves around allegations that PRs50 billion, returned to Pakistan by the UK's National Crime Agency as part of a settlement with a property tycoon was misused. The funds were reportedly intended for the national treasury but were allegedly redirected for the personal benefit of the businessman who helped Bibi and Khan to set up a university. Bibi, as a trustee of the Al-Qadir Trust, is accused of benefiting from this settlement, including acquiring 458 kanals of land for Al-Qadir University in Jhelum. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Nayanthara is back in headline. Not for her new project but for the legal trouble for her released documentary. The Lady superstar is facing fresh legal challenges over her documentary Nayanthara: Beyond the Fairytale. The latest issue involves the producers of her hit film Chandramukhi, who have filed a lawsuit against her, claiming that excerpts from the film were used in the documentary without permission. The producers are demanding INR 5 crore in compensation from both Nayanthara and Netflix for what they say is a violation of copyright laws. The controversy surrounds a specific clip from Chandramukhi, which was reportedly included in the wedding segment of the documentary. This legal action follows a similar lawsuit from Dhanush, producer of Naanum Rowdy Dhaan, who earlier filed a 10-crore claim over a behind-the-scenes clip from the 2015 film. Nayanthara: Beyond The Fairytale: Despite Dhanushs Legal Threat, Nayanthara and Vignesh Shivans Netflix Documentary Uses BTS Footage From Naanum Rowdy Dhaan (Watch Video). Legal Action Over Chandramukhi Clips in Nayantharas Documentary The legal notice from the Chandramukhi producers has intensified the situation, and as the case now moves to the Madras High Court, Nayanthara's response is awaited. The documentary, which offers an intimate view of her personal life, including her relationship with filmmaker and husband Vignesh Shivan, has captured public attention and is now at the centre of legal controversy. Actor Chitra Lakshmanan, known for providing exclusive film-related updates on his YouTube channel, recently shared that the makers of Chandramukhi are upset about certain scenes from the film being featured in Nayanthara's documentary. Nayanthara Responds to Dhanushs INR 10 Crore Legal Notice Ahead of the Release of Her Netflix Documentary Nayanthara: Beyond the Fairytale; Read the Actress Open Letter. Trailer Of Nayanthara: Beyond the Fairy Tale Chandramukhi, a significant milestone in Nayanthara's career, remains one of her most cherished roles. This fresh legal battle has added a new layer of drama to her already eventful career. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 06, 2025 06:51 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Patna, January 6: Prashant Kishor, the chief of the Jan Suraj Party, was sent to 14 days of judicial custody by the Patna Police after he refused to accept the conditional bail granted by a court here on Monday. The bail bond, set at Rs 25,000, included a condition that Kishor would refrain from similar actions in the future, a stipulation he declined, citing the principle of his ongoing satyagraha. Kishor justified his decision, stating: "I was granted bail, but the condition was that I would not engage in such activities again. This fight is for fundamental rights and justice. If raising ones voice against injustices, like the use of lathis on women and youth, is a crime in Bihar, then I am ready to go to jail. My satyagraha will continue even in custody until the government provides a solution. Bihar is a place where Mahatma Gandhi did the Satyagraha and if doing the same in Bihar is a crime then I am ready to do such a crime. Prashant Kishor's Advocate YV Giri Condemns Police Brutality, Demands Release. The timing of filing the bail bond was 4 p.m. on Monday but Prashant Kishor informed the court that he is ready to go to jail instead of taking conditional bail. Kishor had been on a hunger strike since January 2, protesting against the Bihar governments alleged use of force and other grievances. Earlier in the day, the police arrested Kishor from the Gandhi statue in Patna, where he was on hunger strike. He was placed in an ambulance for five hours and taken to multiple locations, including AIIMS Patna and the Fatua Community Hospital. He claimed that the AIIMS administration refused to admit him, and he rejected medical examinations at other facilities, calling them unnecessary. The Jan Suraj Party founder criticised the Bihar government, stating, Public spaces like Gandhi Maidan should remain open for peaceful protests and expressions of dissent. His refusal to accept bail is a stance against policies he claims suppress democratic voices. He accused the government of using a lathi-system to silence dissent and vowed to continue his campaign to challenge the leadership of Nitish Kumar and the BJP. Prashant Kishor Arrested Over BPSC Protest: Patna Police Arrest Jan Suraaj Founder for Protesting in Unauthorised Location at Gandhi Maidan in Bihar. 'I Will Not Take the Bail and Will Continue the Hunger Strike' Patna, Bihar: Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor says, "I will not take the bail and will continue the hunger strike" pic.twitter.com/ozz2X62S1I IANS (@ians_india) January 6, 2025 While addressing his followers, Kishor urged restraint: "Do not push or confront the police; they are merely following orders. This campaign is against the system, not the officers themselves." He has declared that his hunger strike, which entered its fifth day at the time of arrest, will continue even in jail. He reaffirmed his commitment to finding a resolution to the issues raised, including police actions against protesters and other grievances against the Bihar government. This development underscores escalating tensions between the Jan Suraj Party leader and the state government, with Kishor describing his arrest as a stand for democratic rights and justice. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 06, 2025 07:44 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Bengaluru, January 6: India has detected the first case of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) -- currently causing an outbreak in China -- in an 8-month-old baby in Bengaluru, Karnataka, the state health department confirmed on Monday. The baby with no travel history is being treated at a private hospital. The HMPV infection was confirmed through a blood test. Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao is also expected to hold an emergency meeting with health department officials today at 12.30 pm to discuss precautionary measures. This comes after reports emerged of an HMPV outbreak in China. The Chinese government has, however, dismissed it as an annual winter occurrence. HMPV Virus First Case Reported in India, 8-Month-Old Baby Tests Positive for Human Metapneumovirus in Bengaluru. Health department sources expressed concern about the development and are gathering information on the virus's spread across the state. However, officials emphasised that there is no need to panic about the HMPV infection. Although the virus may already be present in India, there is no clarity yet on whether it has mutated. Health department authorities stated that they are also uncertain if the virus detected in Bengaluru is a general strain of HMPV or the mutated version reported in China. The state health department has shared details of the detection with the Union Health Ministry and is in regular contact with central officials. On Sunday, the Karnataka government issued an advisory detailing dos and donts regarding the threat posed by the spread of HMPV. HMPV Outbreak in China: India Well Prepared To Handle Respiratory Illnesses, Surveillance Shows No Unusual Surge: Centre Amid Rise in Human Metapneumovirus Cases in Neighbouring Country. Currently, there is no need to panic regarding the spread of HMPV. The Health Department is monitoring the situation closely in coordination with the Director of the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, it said. HMPV is like any other respiratory virus, causing common cold and flu-like symptoms during the winter season, especially among younger and older age groups, it added. The Karnataka Department of Health and Family Welfare has also analysed data on respiratory infections such as the common cold, ILI (Influenza-Like Illness), and SARI (Severe Acute Respiratory Infections) within the state. It reported no significant increase in cases in December 2024 compared to the previous year. The department urged citizens to follow the recommended precautions to protect themselves and prevent spreading infections. The people are advised to cover their mouth and nose with handkerchiefs, and tissue paper while coughing, or sneezing; wash hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizer; avoid crowded places; stay away from public places while having fever, cough, or sneezing. Adequate ventilation with outdoor air is recommended in all settings to reduce the transmission. People are also advised to stay at home and limit contact with others if they are sick and it's also been advised to drink plenty of water and eat nutritious food. The people are advised not to reuse tissue paper and handkerchiefs; close contact with sick persons, sharing of towels, linen, etc.; frequent touching of eyes, nose, and mouth; spitting in public places and self-medication without consulting the physician. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 06, 2025 11:55 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Patna, January 6: Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor was arrested by the Patna Police on Monday for staging a sit-in in an unauthorised location in Gandhi Maidan, according to an official. After the arrest, a medical examination was conducted, and Kishor will be presented in court, Patna SSP Awakash Kumar told IANS. "Prashant Kishore of Jan Suraaj Party and some other people were illegally protesting in front of Gandhi statue in the restricted area of Gandhi Maidan for their five-point demands," SSP Kumar said. He also informed that the administration had earlier issued a notice to Kishor and other protestors to move from the unauthorised area of Gandhi Maidan to the designated place of protest, Gardnibagh. Prashant Kishor Arrested Over BPSC Protest: Patna Police Arrest Jan Suraaj Leader From Illegal Dharna at Gandhi Maidan for Cancellation of Bihar Public Service Commission Exam (Watch Video). "An FIR was lodged in Gandhi Maidan police station for illegally protesting in the restricted area. Despite repeated requests and giving sufficient time, the place was not vacated," the Patna SSP told IANS. "Today, on January 6, he has been arrested along with some supporters in the morning. They are completely healthy. Action is being taken to present them before the court as per the prescribed procedure," SSP Kumar added. Prashant Kishor Detained During BPSC Protest: Patna Police Detain Jan Suraaj Chief Sitting on Indefinite Hunger Strike, Vacate Gandhi Maidan (Watch Video). Kishor has been actively supporting the agitating Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) candidates and has joined their protest, further bringing attention to their demands for a re-conduct of the entire 70th preliminary examination. However, his choice of venue for the sit-in has raised concerns about adherence to legal protocols. Meanwhile, Kishor defended his choice of Gandhi Maidan as a protest site, arguing that it is a public space and does not require prior permission for peaceful demonstrations. He referred to the large-scale farmer protests in Delhi, questioning whether those protests were deemed illegal and whether Delhi authorities were uninformed about the rules. Following this, Patna District Magistrate Chandrashekhar Singh clarified that Kishor's sit-in protest under the Bapu statue at Gandhi Maidan violates established regulations. "As per a 2015 Patna High Court ruling, Gardanibagh is the designated location for protests, provided prior permission is obtained from the district administration. Gandhi Maidan, a public space primarily used for recreational activities like morning and evening walks, is not authorised for protests or sit-ins. Even political rallies at Gandhi Maidan require administrative approval," Singh had mentioned. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 06, 2025 08:55 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Lucknow, January 6: More than a month after violent protests rocked the Sambhal city, the Uttar Pradesh police on Monday apprehended a woman "stone-pelter" who was hurling stones at them from the house rooftop. The woman has been identified as Zikra, and her role in stone-pelting was ascertained by the UP Police after it scanned through the viral videos. As the woman stone-pelter was identified, the UP police conducted raids to arrest her. According to police, Zikra is a resident of the Hindupura Kheda area. Till now, the police have already arrested three women who pelted stones in the violence and sent them to jail, according to the reports. The violence broke out in Sambhal on November 24 during the court-mandated survey of the city's Shahi Jama Masjid. The Muslim minorities objected to the ASI survey and protested against the police, eventually leading to violent clashes. Man Accused of Firing at Cop During Sambhal Violence Nabbed. As the videos of violence circulated on social media, a couple of women with veiled faces were also seen pelting stones at the police. The unruly mob engaged in clashes with the police and also resorted to arson, vandalism and destruction of public properties. Three people were killed in the clashes, while more than thirty cops were injured. Cracking down on the vandals, the cops took more than 52 miscreants into custody for indulging in arson and violence. Uttar Pradesh: Police Arrest Another Accused Involved in Sambhal Violence; Recovers One 12-bore Pistol. During the Sambhal violence on November 24, many senior police officials were also injured, including SP K.K. Vishnoi and CO Anuj Chaudhary. A day ago, UP cops received a major success as they nabbed a key accused from Delhi's Seelampur. The accused, Salim, fired a shot at CO Anuj Chaudhary during Sambhal violence and fled to the capital and hid in the Seelampur area. Police also recovered a 12-bore pistol and live cartridges from him. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 06, 2025 04:43 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). With tears in her eyes, an emotionally disturbed Delhi Chief Minister Atishi on Monday hit out at BJP candidate from Kalkaji seat Ramesh Bidhuri for stooping so low to attack his 80-year-old educationist father. Guru Gobind Singh was a warrior, poet, and philosopher. In 1675, at the age of nine, he was formally named as the leader of the Sikhs after his father Guru Tegh Bahadur was executed by Emperor Aurangzeb. In a major development in the murder of journalist Mukesh Chandrakar, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) arrested prime suspect Suresh Chandrakar late last night, January 5, in Hyderabad. The 33-year-old journalist had gone missing on January 1, and his body was found on Friday in a septic tank on a local contractor's property in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh. Mukesh, a freelance journalist who worked with NDTV and News18, also ran a popular YouTube channel, `Bastar Junction, with over 1.5 lakh subscribers. Following his disappearance, his brother lodged a police complaint, prompting the SIT's swift formation for a fast-tracked investigation. Authorities are currently interrogating Suresh Chandrakar to uncover more details of the case. Mukesh Chandrakar Murder Case: 3 Arrested in Connection With Killing of Journalist in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur (Watch Video). SIT Arrests Prime Suspect Suresh Chandrakar in Hyderabad The SIT team apprehended Suresh Chandrakar, the prime suspect in journalist Mukesh Chandrakar's murder, in Hyderabad late at night. Interrogation is currently underway to uncover further details pic.twitter.com/zzr89bZmN7 IANS (@ians_india) January 6, 2025 (SocialLY brings you all the latest breaking news, viral trends and information from social media world, including Twitter (X), Instagram and Youtube. The above post is embeded directly from the user's social media account and LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body. The views and facts appearing in the social media post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY, also LatestLY does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.) Mumbai Police launched an investigation after two cars with the same number plate were found parked near the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Colaba on Monday. The original owner, Sakir Ali, a Nariman Point resident, discovered another Ertiga car identical to his own with the number plate MH01 EE 2388 while near Gateway of India. He alerted the Regional Transport Office (RTO), leading to the vehicles and drivers being taken to Colaba Police Station. Investigations revealed that Prasad Kadam, a Navi Mumbai resident, had intentionally duplicated the number plate on his car. Kadam admitted to altering it to avoid detection after defaulting on a car loan from Chola Mandalam. Police recorded the statements of both drivers and are continuing their probe to determine further legal actions. HC on Loan Recovery: Banks Cannot Coerce Defaulting Loan Borrowers To Pay by Publishing Their Photos, It Violates Right to Privacy and Reputation, Says Kerala High Court. Mumbai Police Probe Two Cars With Identical Number Plates Near Taj Mahal Hotel Mumbai | Sakir Ali stays at Nariman Point and has an Ertiga with the number plate MH01 EE 2388. He is the original owner of the car. Today he was in front of Gateway of India where he found another Ertiga car with the same model & number plate. He informed the nearby RTO. Both https://t.co/Oirf4nbB7y ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025 #WATCH | Mumbai: Sakir Ali says, "...When I was going to drop my client, I saw another car with the same number plate. The owner of the car with the same number plate tried to run away when I approached him. The traffic police caught him...I had complained about this earlier too, https://t.co/TfQEQDu1Z4 pic.twitter.com/VHCXLn5DnD ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025 (SocialLY brings you all the latest breaking news, viral trends and information from social media world, including Twitter (X), Instagram and Youtube. The above post is embeded directly from the user's social media account and LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body. The views and facts appearing in the social media post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY, also LatestLY does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is set to hold a news conference at 10:45 am in Ottawa (15:45 GMT, 9:15 pm IST), amid rumours of his resignation. Canadian media reports suggest Trudeau may step down as Liberal leader but remain in office until a successor is chosen. Trudeau, prime minister for nine years, has faced growing internal pressure to resign, especially after the Liberals historic by-election defeat in Toronto last summer. His approval rating has plummeted to 22%, the lowest since he assumed office in 2015, while Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre leads by nearly 24 points in the polls. Speculation intensified after the abrupt resignation of his finance minister in December. Watch the live streaming below as Trudeaus announcement is highly anticipated. Justin Trudeau To Resign? Reports Say Canada PM Likely To Announce Resignation This Week. Justin Trudeau Speech Live Streaming (SocialLY brings you all the latest breaking news, viral trends and information from social media world, including Twitter (X), Instagram and Youtube. The above post is embeded directly from the user's social media account and LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body. The views and facts appearing in the social media post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY, also LatestLY does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.) On 5 January authorities in Mexicos southern state of Chiapas announced the arrest of, the mayor of Frontera Comalapa municipality, for alleged corruption. End of preview - This article contains approximately 397 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options A female driver was ejected from a vehicle after crashing into a median along Interstate 78, which then led to a tractor-trailer driver also striking the car, state police said. Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Nathan Branosky, public information officer for the Troop M barracks, told lehighvalleylive.com the accident began just before 12:15 a.m. Sunday at mile marker 54.1 in Lower Macungie Township. It happened when the woman was headed south along Route 309 and attempted to merge onto I-78 east, Branosky said. She then struck the center median, which caused her to become ejected from the car, he said. The vehicle came to rest on the west side of the highway. Then, a tractor-trailer driver struck that vehicle stationed in the westbound lanes, causing the secondary crash, Branosky said. The woman was taken to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest in Salisbury Township for treatment of injuries. A condition was not immediately available Monday morning. The woman was the only occupant in the vehicle. The driver of the rig was not injured, Branosky said. Also responding was the Lower Macungie Twp Fire Department; South Whitehall Township Fire Department; Cetronia Emergency Medical Services; and Pennsylvania Department of Transportation representatives. Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust. Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. UPDATE: The Northampton County Coroners Office Monday night identified the woman killed as Nicole D. Guzman of Easton. -- A 35-year-old woman was killed in a single-vehicle crash early Sunday into trees in Bethlehem Township, police said. Township police Capt. Shaun Powell said the crash happened shortly after 2 a.m. at William Penn Highway and Chipman Road. A patrol officer happened upon the wrecked car and found the two occupants entrapped, Powell said. The woman, an Easton resident who was a passenger in the car, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver, a 31-year-old man from from Easton, was taken to an area hospital for treatment of injuries, Powell said. Injuries do not appear to be life threatening, he said Wednesday morning. Township police closed the road for about four hours as authorities investigated. The driver was heading east on William Penn Highway, when he left the road to the north, crossed into the opposing lane and hit two trees, Powell said. Also responding was the Bethlehem Township Volunteer Fire Co.; Nancy Run Fire Co., Bethlehem Township Emergency Medical Services, Easton Police Department and the Northampton County Coroners Office. Sundays crash remains under investigation by Bethlehem Township police. Witnesses are being sought. Those with information are asked to call Bethlehem Township Police Cpl. Kevin Lindsay at 610-814-6411. Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust. Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. A nonprofit serving families facing homelessness in Warren County almost became homeless itself. Family Promise of Warren County, which was formerly located in Oxford, is now headquartered in Phillipsburg because of the kindness of strangers, said Executive Director of Family Promises Bob Frankenfield. If the folks who helped us hadnt stepped up we wouldve been a homeless services agency that was homeless, Frankenfield said. Family Promise of Warren County is an independent and self-supporting private nonprofit. The organization does not receive funding from the affiliated national organization. Its required to raise its own funding each year and must pay an affiliation fee to retain its membership. Family Promise had operated inside the Oxford Second Presbyterian Church since 2008 at zero cost alongside a rotating door of social services agencies serving Warren County residents. They shared space in the church with Habitat for Humanity at one time. The agency was forced to vacate its facility when the church shuttered indefinitely and the property was listed for sale. When word spread to the congregants of another nearby Presbyterian Church, an effort was made to save the essential service from closing. One congregant of the church spread the word to others, according to Reverend Mary Beth Mardis-LeCroy, a pastor at Old Greenwich Presbyterian Church. A small group of congregants hosted a spaghetti dinner to fundraise for the cause and a full house of donors raised more than $11,000 in two days. The event was packed, said Mardis-LeCroy. We had to go out and get more food halfway through the event, she said. The event featured a silent auction, music and dinner. People were encouraged to give freely in many different ways, Mardis-LeCroy said. Overall, twenty-six thousand dollars was raised, not including a contribution by two congregants of a $120,000 zero-interest loan, and added to the total sum in December. A member of the church helped find Family Promises new location and local attorneys Bill Mandry and Chad Williams donated their professional services to close on the sale. The addition of a mortgage will complicate the organizations finances moving forward, but the move will make the offices more accessible via established bus routes, said Frankenfield. Residents in the rest of the county will continue to be serviced directly by two field employees through the companys outreach and engagement Program. The agency services roughly 1,200 families in Warren County each year, most of whom are based in Phillipsburg, according to its annual appeal. Family Promise is considered an essential service for families facing homelessness in Warren County, where there currently is no homeless shelter. The nonprofit follows a housing first model and connects families with services to ensure they are sheltered. The nonprofit does not function as a shelter and its sheltering programs have suffered immensely since 2020, Frankenfield said. Old Greenwich Presbyterian Church once served as a member of Family Promises Interfaith Hospitality Network, a network of small churches that offered shelter to families in need. The network ended in 2020 when the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic spread resources too thin to continue serving families in Warren County. Were a small but mighty agency. We are on the ground doing the work, Frankenfield said. Glenn Epps can be reached at gepps@lehighvalleylive.com or glenn_epps_on X (formerly known as Twitter.com), Facebook and Threads. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe to lehighvalleylive.com today. A protest has been staged outside Irelands Central Bank over its role in approving the sale of Israel Bonds in the European Union. Dozens of people participated in Mondays demonstration in Dublin, which called on the Bank to stop authorising the sale of the bonds across EU markets. Israel chose the Central Bank of Ireland to be the designated authority to approve prospectuses for the securities in the EU, having used the UK before Brexit. Israel Bonds are advertised as supporting the countrys economy. Holders of the securities are promised that the principal and interest will be repaid after the bond matures. In recent times, websites promoting the bonds emphasise their role in supporting Israel during the war. The Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign (IPSC), which organised the protest, accused the Central Bank of enabling a genocide in the Gaza Strip by authorising the sale of the bonds. It said money raised through the bonds is funding the instruments of genocide in Gaza, the Israel Defence Forces and the apartheid regime in Israel. The Central Bank is responsible for assessing whether a prospectus for the offer of securities is in compliance with requirements of the EU Prospectus Regulation. A spokeswoman for the Central Bank said it is obliged to approve prospectuses that meet those standards, but added that approval is not an endorsement of a security. We are required to approve the prospectus under the Prospectus Regulation, where the prospectus documentation meets standards of completeness, consistency and comprehensibility. Approval should not be considered as an endorsement of the issuer and the securities that is the subject of the prospectus. The Central Bank will adhere to any financial sanctions or restrictive measures that are imposed under law. However, the IPSC argues that the Bank has obligations under the Genocide Convention and the EU regulation itself to stop authorising the bonds. The principal of St Mary's CBS in Laois says she and her students are prepared to protest at the Dail to stop the deportation of a family to Africa who claim their abusive father has made death threats to them. Principal Maura Murphy has enlisted Fine Gael Cllr Willie Aird to ask Minister for Justice Helen McEntee to urgently prevent the deportation of the Adebowale family. Lucy Adebowale has five sons aged from 17 to 6. Her three oldest boys, Star, Greatness and Value are students at CBS, and two youngest, Prosperity and Gold are pupils in St Fintan's NS in Mountrath. I am prepared to bring the school to the Dail. The whole school is behind us. They are meeting officials this Tuesday. If they lose their appeal again they are literally on a plane, Ms Murphy told the Leinster Express / Laois Live. She has been an advocate for the family to the Department since one of the boys came to her three weeks ago with their shocking news. He told me what was upsetting him, he was terrified. The teachers held a anonymous school fundraiser before the break which covered the family's legal bills and gave the family what could be their last Christmas in Ireland. The whole school gave generously to help. The Adebowale family arrived in Ireland from Brazil in December 2021, entering Direct Provision and applying for International Protection Status to the Minister of Justice. The four older boys were born in Nigeria, the youngest in Brazil so they could be deported to either country. Last June their request was refused but the family appealed the Deportation Order. Last December 9 that appeal was rejected. As they will not have not left Ireland voluntarily by Tuesday January 7, they must go and meet the Garda National Immigration Bureau that day for a final discussion. Their father had returned to Nigeria last July without their knowledge after the asylum request was refused. The CBS principal says the children have disclosed how they experienced very bad abuse by their father. They were like prisoners in their home, she said. They claim his family are making death threats to the mother's parents. They had to move home several times to escape, but the threats continue," it is claimed. Documentation of these threats to Mrs Adebowale in Ireland and to her parents in Nigeria have been forwarded to the Minister for Justice, as part of a new appeal. Ms Murphy said the boys had settled well into their schools in Laois. Star will hopefully sit his Leaving Certificate in June 2025, and Greatness in June 2026. Value will sit his Junior Certificate in June 2026 also. The two younger boys are getting on very well. On receiving the December letter, the family were deeply upset and completely terrified of their future. The family cannot go back to Brazil because of the attack and life threats from the dangerous gang their father was involved in which caused them to leave the country in December 2021," she alleged. Without giving away the familys right to privacy, they have only begun to live, free from fear, since their father left the family home. This letter left them completely inconsolable. I have witnessed the fear and gravity of this situation. This is their last chance to have the Minister revoke her decision. To this family it is a matter of life and death. The new appeal is based on the real and present threat to their lives, the CBS principal said. She said that St Mary's CBS is launching a campaign to help the Adebowale brothers. St Marys CBS is a multicultural school with 54 nationalities. The CBS is a recognised School of Sanctuary, meaning that they demonstrate a commitment to become ever more inclusive places, taking an active and visible stance against prejudice and racism. St Marys CBS will not be found wanting in supporting the Adebowale familys Appeal," the principal says. A new research report outlines the impact of, and behaviours and attitudes towards, workplace commuting of more than 1,000 people living in small rural communities across Ireland, Northern Ireland and the State of Maryland, United States, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The manifestations of long-distance commuting for people living in towns and villages that are between 30km and 60km from the major metropolitan centres are assessed in the research report. Seven towns were identified across the island of Ireland, and two in the State of Maryland. 102 people from Sallins participated in the research study. The International Centre for Local and Regional Development (ICLRD) conducted the InPLACE - Investigating Planning, Placemaking and Commuting research during the unique historical backdrop of COVID-19, in two phases, June 2021 to September 2022 and October 2022 to December 2023. Commuters, community leaders and local stakeholders contributed, with local authority planners and policy experts informing the findings and policy implications. Key findings: 45% commute distances of 30 km or more, one-way. 47% have one-way commutes of greater than 45 minutes duration - more than twice the percentage of long-duration commuters recorded for Ireland in the 2022 Census. 25% frequently experience difficulties fulfilling family responsibilities as a result of time spent commuting. This figure was higher for commuters travelling longer distances. In autumn 2022, 38% of respondents were continuing to work remotely to some degree, as compared to 33% in Ireland as a whole as recorded by the census in early April. Only 12% of respondents used public transport. Feeling safe, the natural environment, sense of community and community engagement were ranked as the highest rated attributes that people associated with their towns in Ireland. Parking, facilities and amenities - all linked either directly or indirectly to commuting - were ranked the least satisfactory. Unsurprisingly, across geographic areas, the flexibility created through agile working during the pandemic is resulting in people with longer commutes choosing to travel into work less frequently. Almost one-quarter of the Ireland and Northern Ireland respondents moved to their current place of residence within the previous five years, with the primary motivating factor being housing affordability, followed by family considerations. This contrasts with the US experience, where quality of schools was the primary reason for movement, with one-in-three having moved to the towns the previous five years. Commenting on the research study findings, Professor Des McCafferty, Professor Emeritus at the Department of Geography, Mary Immaculate College, Limerick, part of the ICLRD research team said: The aim of the InPLACE study was to examine the impacts of pre-and post-COVID-19 commuting on people and place by examining its effects on home, community and workplace in nine rural villages with shared characteristics on the island of Ireland and in the US. Commuting has grown rapidly in recent years, partly driven by the effects of house prices pushing workers to live further from their places of work, but also as a result of the pull of rural settlements that offer commuters a range of benefits, including proximity to familial and other social networks. Our research has demonstrated that commuting has undergone major changes in recent times and is now a much more varied and diverse phenomenon, impacting housing, transport, local economic development, place-making and community development, and local and spatial planning. Addressing this multifaceted issue requires a comprehensive, collaborative and integrated policy approach. This will require co-ordinated action across multiple policy sectors and multiple agencies and government departments, as well as local authorities. The selected communities where the research took place were: Ennistymon-Lahinch, Co. Clare Kanturk-Banteer, Co. Cork Mountbellew-Moylough, Co. Galway Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow Sallins, Co. Kildare; Aghagallon, Co. Antrim; Dundrum Co. Down; Middletown, Frederick County; and North Beach, Calvert County, Maryland, USA. The InPLACE - Investigating Planning, Placemaking and Commuting research study can be downloaded here. The Rose of Tralee has officially launched their search for the next International Rose of Tralee and Rose Escort of the Year. Young women and men across Ireland and further afield are encouraged to show pride in their communities and heritage by applying to take part in the iconic competition. Ireland's flagship family festival continues to grow in popularity with over 100,000 visitors making the annual trip to Tralee to enjoy all that is on offer across the five-day event. The 2025 Rose selections will take place over the coming months across 34 Rose Centres around Ireland and the globe. READ NEXT: Fairytale wedding of Glenn and Tara goes ahead in Limerick despite the snow The 2024 Rose of Tralee Keely O'Grady launched the official search on Monday, 6 January, alongside last year's Rose Escort of the Year Barry Lysaght. The 2024 Rose of Tralee has urged anyone interested in taking part to make 2025 their year. At the launch on Monday, Keely said: "Taking part in the Rose of Tralee International Festival has truly been a life-changing experience. The one thing I can say to any young woman interested is go for it and apply! "To think its been just five months since my name was called out by Daithi O Se and Kathryn Thomas in Tralee, and Ive already had the opportunity to travel around Ireland and meet so many amazing people, visit Irish communities in Texas and Arizona in the US, and attend so many great events with all my Rose sisters and the Rose Escorts - its been a dream so far to say the least!" Last year's Rose Escort of the Year also encouraged people to get involved, saying: "Its been such an amazing experience already and were only halfway through the year! The Festival week in Tralee last August was such a great experience but it was only the start. Ive made friends for life in the Roses and Rose Escorts from all over the world." Barry added: "Since the Festival Ive been lucky enough to get the opportunity to travel to Frankfurt, hosted by our German Rose Centre, and we even rang in the New Year together! This year well be volunteering with Chernobyl Children International and the Happy Kids foundation, and Im traveling to New York for the St Patricks Day parade." The 2025 Rose of Tralee International Festival will take place from August 15 19. If you think you could be the next Rose of Tralee or Rose Escort of the Year, then make sure to grab an application form and check out the full list of Rose selection events on the Rose of Tralee website. Tens of thousands of homes and businesses in Ireland are without water and electricity amid a bitter cold snap on the island. The severe winter weather has led to the closure of some schools and some public transport restrictions as well as the cancellation of several healthcare services. There are treacherous road conditions across the Republic of Ireland, with broad sections of the island experiencing below-zero temperatures. There are currently Status Yellow Countrywide warnings for Low Temperature/Ice/Snow-Ice. Please stay updated by checking the warnings website and local advice.https://t.co/3041XHjphi pic.twitter.com/daZq5gXaBL Met Eireann (@MetEireann) January 6, 2025 The Irish Electricity Supply Board (ESB) said 41,000 homes and businesses remained without power on Monday morning, and warned it may take days to restore supply to all customers. By 5.15pm, around 17,000 homes and businesses remained without power, mostly in Kerry, Limerick and Tipperary. Irish water authority Uisce Eireann said a similar number of people were without access to water after heavy snow in the south-west region. It said it would be working with the ESB to prioritise the restoration of power at water treatment plants and pumping stations, in the hope that services could be restored by Monday lunchtime. ESB Networks continues to restore electricity supply to the 59,000 homes, businesses and farms currently impacted. Thank you for your patience. Press Release: https://t.co/JiwLxThiBh pic.twitter.com/v0iXojkaAg ESB Networks (@ESBNetworks) January 5, 2025 However, both agencies said the snow and other treacherous road conditions are creating access difficulties for crews. The Health Service Executive has cancelled clinical and non-urgent outpatient appointments in the worst-affected areas, along with breast screening services in the south-west. The Defence Forces deployed personnel on 18 vehicles to help transport essential healthcare workers and patients, while two helicopters were also sent to assist the ESB in line inspection and repairs. Thank you to the crews working across the country to assist communities, homes & businesses with electricity & water supplies after the snow & to grit roads & maintain safety during the very cold weather. Lets all look out for neighbours & those particularly vulnerable #sneachta Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) January 6, 2025 The poor weather conditions also resulted in school closure announcements, particularly across counties Carlow and Kilkenny as well as Limerick, Kerry, Tipperary and Cork. In Tralee, Co Kerry, the roof of a sports complex collapsed under the weight of heavy snow. Meanwhile, Bus Eireann informed customers that a range of routes in the south of the country have been halted. Irish premier Simon Harris thanked crews working to help others and urged people to check in on their neighbours and the vulnerable. While there had been some thawing of weekend snow on Monday morning, the bitterly cold conditions are expected to continue into the week with overnight temperatures dropping to a bitterly cold minus 8C in parts of the south in the coming days. The cold arctic air is also predicted to bring further snow showers in some regions. National weather agency Met Eireann issued updated Status Yellow low temperature and ice warnings for the entire country on Monday morning, predicting very cold nights with widespread frost and ice. Temperatures will struggle to get above freezing during the day, the forecaster said, meaning there will be travel disruption amid icy patches and other hazardous travelling conditions. The Status Yellow warning for low temperatures and ice is in place for the entire country until the end of Thursday. The meteorologists also announced a separate Yellow level snow and ice warning for the Republic for Ireland, in place between midday on Monday and noon on Tuesday. There are currently Status Yellow Countrywide warnings for Low Temperature/Ice/Snow-Ice. Please stay updated by checking the warnings website and local advice.https://t.co/3041XHjphi pic.twitter.com/daZq5gXaBL Met Eireann (@MetEireann) January 6, 2025 Forecasters believe there may be a need for Orange level warnings for some regions at points throughout the week. The UK Met Office, which issues warnings for Northern Ireland, said the region will see icy stretches developing during the early hours of Monday, bringing some disruption, especially to travel. A Yellow warning for ice across Northern Ireland was in place until 11am. Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung Outlines 2025 Vision Driven by Commitment to Innovation, Overcoming Challenges, and Creating Opportunities in New Year's Message Hyundai Motor Group celebrates New Year at Hyundai Motorstudio Goyang, emphasizing open communication with employees at flagship space ... Executive Chair Euisun Chung highlights the need to face challenges head on at 2025 New Year's Remarks, strengthening the Group's vision ... Key HMG executives held 'roundtable', discussing the future global business environment and the Group's vision following questions from employees ... Executive Chair highlights the need to face challenges head on at 2025 New Year's Remarks, strengthening the Group's vision ... Key HMG executives held 'roundtable', discussing the future global business environment and the Group's vision following questions from employees Executive Chair Chung underscores the need for perspective in facing difficulty, emphasizing innovation and overcoming challenges is part of the Group's DNA ... Preparation and fundamental capabilities are key Hyundai Motor Group assets to help navigate and embrace change ... Agile responses to unexpected challenges through flexible processes and a culture of unified action to achieve collective goals ... Preparation and fundamental capabilities are key Hyundai Motor Group assets to help navigate and embrace change ... Agile responses to unexpected challenges through flexible processes and a culture of unified action to achieve collective goals Open culture where talent can thrive and teamwork is further strengthened to underscore the Group's resilience and focus on opportunities for growth ... Ensuring an environment where creative and enthusiastic individuals can demonstrate their capabilities to the fullest ... Investment in key business areas and strategic collaboration with partners SEOUL, South Korea, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) today held its annual New Year's Address, with Executive Chair Euisun Chung outlining the Group's focus for 2025: overcoming challenges through a commitment to innovation, embracing change, and further strengthening teamwork. Held at Hyundai Motorstudio Goyang, near Seoul, this year's event adopted a new format to drive in-depth dialogue among attendees, discussing the global business environment for the year ahead and the Group's strategic direction. Executive Chair Chung began by thanking Hyundai Motor Group employees around the world. "We achieved a lot last year," he said. "These achievements were the result of your tireless efforts to deliver the quality, trust and experience our customers expect. I extend my deepest gratitude to you all." He continued by emphasizing the importance of facing both internal and external challenges over the year ahead, as well as the potential for global growth across the Group's operations by overcoming adversity through its commitment to innovation, further strengthening teamwork, and a proactive approach to creating future opportunities. "Innovation is in Hyundai Motor Group's DNA. If we continue to embrace change and pursue innovation, we can overcome any test or difficulty we may face," said Executive Chair Chung. Executive Chair Chung also reinforced Hyundai Motor Group's resilience and its ability to further strengthen its position as a global mobility leader by looking for opportunities in every challenge. "There is no need to be intimidated by uncertainties ahead. Without challenges, we risk becoming complacent, which presents a bigger danger. We cannot assume success in 2025 simply because of our strong performance last year. But we should also not be pessimistic as a defensive mindset can stifle innovation. Challenges can sharpen awareness and drive action ? Hyundai Motor Group has successfully navigated challenges in the past and emerged stronger. We will do the same again." Addressing challenges and creating opportunities Executive Chair Chung categorized two types of challenges the Group is facing ? 'predictable' and 'unexpected' ? and outlined strategies for overcoming both. He stressed that thorough preparation is key in overcoming predictable challenges, adding that "It's not simply about eliminating risks, but about a comprehensive understanding of the background, context, and historical trends to create opportunities for future growth." Chung continued by highlighting the importance of fundamental capabilities as a key factor in addressing unexpected challenges, including flexible and open processes, a culture of objective analysis and agile response, and continuous, unified action to achieve the Group's shared goals. With the appointment of Jose Munoz as Hyundai Motor's first non-Korean CEO, Executive Chair Chung emphasized this milestone as "a clear expression of our commitment to innovation", reiterating the Group's dedication to creating a global culture where talented individuals are recognized and can thrive regardless of their nationality, gender, seniority or background. Executive Chair Chung closed the Group's 2025 New Year's Address by highlighting that "We must expand our strong commitment to innovation," linking leadership in industrial change and technological development, strategic investment in core areas for the Group, and collaboration with other partners when necessary. "Our greatest asset is our people. Their talent and resilience mean we do not retreat when we face adversity ? we innovate," said Executive Chair Chung, closing the roundtable. "We embrace challenges as opportunities to grow stronger and to shape a brighter, more sustainable future. We will continue to work together in 2025 to further strengthen Hyundai Motor Group's collective vision." More information about Hyundai Motor Group can be found at: http://www.hyundaimotorgroup.com SOURCE Hyundai Motor Group 6 january 2025 at 02:13 News published onand distributed by: Benjamin Faes Joins RWS as Chief Executive Officer RWS Holdings plc ("RWS", "the Company" or "the Group"), a unique, world-leading provider of technology-enabled language, content and intellectual property solutions, announces that, with effect from today, Benjamin Faes (Ben) has been appointed Chief Executive Officer and Director of RWS. A highly experienced business leader, Ben has spent more than 25 years in digital transformation and leadership roles across the technology and media sectors, creating and leading international teams in sales, partnerships and marketing. Ben brings deep expertise in leveraging technology to transform businesses and drive profitable organic growth. After eight years at AOL, culminating in the role of Managing Director for France, Ben joined Alphabet in 2008 where he pioneered the monetization of YouTube across Europe. He was subsequently appointed to a series of leadership roles for Google in the EMEA region before becoming Managing Director of Google Cloud for Southern Europe and Emerging Markets. "I'm proud to join RWS during such a pivotal moment for the business," said Ben Faes, CEO of RWS. "The industry is clearly undergoing significant change, and the Group is successfully adapting by prioritizing new growth opportunities and enhancing its impressive technology and AI capabilities. I look forward to collaborating with RWS's talented teams and to guide the Group through its next stage of development." Ben joined Webhelp as UK CEO in 2021, a global customer experience management company and, following the acquisition of Webhelp by Concentrix, he led the transformation and technology team at Concentrix Catalyst in his most recent role. Commenting on Ben's appointment, RWS's Chairman, Julie Southern, said, "Ben's extensive international experience in creating new revenue streams and executing go-to-market strategies will be invaluable to the Group as we continue to enhance and expand our portfolio of AI-driven services and software. We are delighted to welcome Ben to the business and look forward to working closely with him to drive the next stage of the company's growth." As announced on 1 October 2024, former Chief Executive Officer Ian El-Mokadem will remain available to support a smooth handover until the end of January 2025 when he will leave the Company. Julie Southern commented, "We deeply appreciate Ian's leadership of RWS over the past three and a half years. Under his guidance, alongside our broader leadership team, the Group has achieved significant milestones in line with its strategy. I would also like to thank Ian for his dedication and continued support over the past six months as we worked to appoint his successor." About RWS RWS Holdings plc is a unique, world-leading provider of technology-enabled language, content and intellectual property services. Through content transformation and multilingual data analysis, our combination of AI-enabled technology and human expertise helps our clients to grow by ensuring they are understood anywhere, in any language. Our purpose is unlocking global understanding. By combining cultural understanding, client understanding and technical understanding, our services and technology assist our clients to acquire and retain customers, deliver engaging user experiences, maintain compliance and gain actionable insights into their data and content. Over the past 20 years we've been evolving our own AI solutions as well as helping clients to explore, build and use multilingual AI applications. With 45+ AI-related patents and more than 100 peer-reviewed papers, we have the experience and expertise to support clients on their AI journey. We work with over 80% of the world's top 100 brands, more than three-quarters of Fortune's 20 ?Most Admired Companies' and almost all of the top pharmaceutical companies, investment banks, law firms and patent filers. Our client base spans Europe, Asia Pacific, Africa and North and South America. Our 60+ global locations across five continents service clients in the automotive, chemical, financial, legal, medical, pharmaceutical, technology and telecommunications sectors. Founded in 1958, RWS is headquartered in the UK and publicly listed on AIM, the London Stock Exchange regulated market (RWS.L). For further information, please visit: www.rws.com. 6 january 2025 at 04:05 News published onand distributed by: Surge Copper Strengthens Board with Appointment of Dr. Paul West-Sells Vancouver, British Columbia, Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Surge Copper Corp. (TSXV: SURG) (OTCQB: SRGXF) (Frankfurt: G6D2) ("Surge" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Paul West-Sells to the Company's board of directors. Dr. West-Sells brings a wealth of experience from a distinguished career spanning nearly three decades in the mining industry. He previously held various technical and senior executive roles at Western Copper and Gold Corporation between 2006 and 2024, including Chief Operating Officer, Chief Executive Officer, and President. During his tenure, Dr. West-Sells led the advancement of the Casino Project through multiple feasibility studies, environmental assessment and permitting efforts, and extensive engagement with First Nations and key governmental, strategic, and financial stakeholders. Earlier in his career, Dr. West-Sells worked with major mining companies such as BHP, Placer Dome, and Barrick in senior technical roles focused on Research & Development and Project Development. He holds a Ph.D. in Metallurgical Engineering from the University of British Columbia. Leif Nilsson, Chief Executive Officer, commented: "We are delighted to welcome Paul to our Board. His extensive multi-disciplinary expertise and proven leadership in advancing large mining projects will be invaluable as we continue to develop the Berg and Ootsa Projects. Attracting someone of Paul's calibre underscores the exceptional quality and potential of our projects and the exciting opportunities ahead for Surge." In connection with the appointment, the board of directors of the Company has approved a grant of 350,000 deferred share units to Dr. West-Sells. About Surge Copper Corp. Surge Copper Corp. is a Canadian company that is advancing an emerging critical metals district in a well-developed region of British Columbia, Canada. The Company owns a large, contiguous mineral claim package that hosts multiple advanced porphyry deposits with pit-constrained NI 43-101 compliant resources of copper, molybdenum, gold, and silver ? metals which are critical inputs to modern energy infrastructure and electrification technologies. The Company owns a 100% interest in the Berg Project, for which it announced a maiden PEA in June 2023 outlining a large-scale, long-life project with a simple design and high outputs of critical minerals located in a safe jurisdiction near world-class infrastructure. The PEA highlights base case economics including an NPV8% of C$2.1 billion and an IRR of 20% based on long-term commodity prices of US$4.00/lb copper, US$15.00/lb molybdenum, US$23.00/oz silver, and US$1,800/oz gold. The Berg deposit contains pit-constrained 43-101 compliant resources of copper, molybdenum, silver, and gold in the Measured, Indicated, and Inferred categories. The Company also owns a 100% interest in the Ootsa Property, an advanced-stage exploration project containing the Seel and Ox porphyry deposits located adjacent to the open pit Huckleberry Copper Mine, owned by Imperial Metals. The Ootsa Property contains pit-constrained NI 43-101 compliant resources of copper, gold, molybdenum, and silver in the Measured, Indicated, and Inferred categories. On Behalf of the Board of Directors "Leif Nilsson" Chief Executive Officer For further information, please contact: Riley Trimble, Corporate Communications & Development Telephone: +1 604 639 3852 Email: [email protected] Twitter: @SurgeCopper LinkedIn: Surge Copper Corp https://www.surgecopper.com Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This News Release contains forward-looking statements, which relate to future events. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as "will", "may", "should", "expects", "plans", or "anticipates" or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements, including but not limited to the Company's plans regarding the Berg Project and the Ootsa Property. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, level 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. Such uncertainties and risks may include, among others, actual results of the Company's exploration activities being different than those expected by management, delays in obtaining or failure to obtain required government or other regulatory approvals, the ability to obtain adequate financing to conduct its planned exploration programs, inability to procure labour, equipment, and supplies in sufficient quantities and on a timely basis, equipment breakdown, impacts of the current coronavirus pandemic, and bad weather. While these forward-looking statements, and any assumptions upon which they are based, are made in good faith and reflect the Company's current judgment regarding the direction of its business, actual results will almost always vary, sometimes materially, from any estimates, predictions, projections, assumptions, or other future performance suggestions herein. Except as required by applicable law, the Company does not intend to update any forward-looking statements to conform these statements to actual results. 6 january 2025 at 07:00 News published onand distributed by: Barrick Update on Loulo-Gounkoto Operations in Mali TORONTO, Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Barrick Gold Corporation (NYSE:GOLD)(TSX:ABX) remains restricted from shipping gold from its Loulo-Gounkoto mining complex in Mali. In addition, an interim attachment order has now been issued against the existing gold stock on site which further prevents its export and disrupts normal operations. Barrick believes the interim attachment order is unwarranted and is in contravention of the agreed dispute resolution mechanisms. Barrick's president and CEO Mark Bristow says the inability to ship gold not only affects operations but has broader implications for the local economy, the 8,000 employees and its many local service providers. If this issue is not resolved within the coming week, Barrick will have no choice but to temporarily suspend operations at Loulo-Gounkoto. Such an action would be deeply regrettable but necessary, as previously reported. "Barrick remains committed to constructive engagement with the Government of Mali to resolve the existing disputes amicably. As previously disclosed, we have initiated arbitration through the International Centre for the Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) as a recognized mechanism to address these matters of disagreement while maintaining the integrity of existing agreements," said Bristow. "In parallel, Barrick continues its efforts to reach an agreement with the Mali government on a memorandum of agreement to resolve the existing disputes, redefine the partnership's future and increase the State's share of benefits from the Loulo-Gounkoto complex." He noted the situation was further compounded by the continued detention, on unfounded charges, of several of Barrick's Malian employees and the company was actively working to secure their release and ensure their well-being. The company reiterated its commitment to the safety and rights of its workforce as a critical priority. "Barrick continues to be a steadfast partner to Mali and its people, contributing significantly to the country's economic and social development over nearly three decades. We are committed to dialogue and finding a mutually acceptable resolution that allows us to secure the future of Loulo-Gounkoto as a vital economic contributor to Mali," Bristow said. Barrick enquiries Investor and media relations Kathy du Plessis +44 20 7557 7738 Email: [email protected] Website: www.barrick.com Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information Certain information contained or incorporated by reference in this press release, including any information as to our strategy, projects, plans, or future financial or operating performance, constitutes "forward-looking statements". All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. The words "continue", "intended", "committed", "engage", "negotiate", "pursue" and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. In particular, this press release contains forward-looking statements including, without limitation, with respect to: the outcome of dispute resolution through arbitration; the status of negotiations with the Government of Mali in respect of ongoing disputes regarding the Loulo-Gounkoto Complex and Barrick's commitment to reach a mutually acceptable solution; the potential to increase the Government of Mali's share in the economic benefits of Loulo-Gounkoto; and Loulo-Gounkoto's partnership with the Government of Mali. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions including material estimates and assumptions related to the factors set forth below that, while considered reasonable by the Company as at the date of this press release in light of management's experience and perception of current conditions and expected developments, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Known and unknown factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements and information. Such factors include, but are not limited to: changes in national and local government legislation, taxation, controls or regulations and/ or changes in the administration of laws, policies and practices; expropriation or nationalization of property and political or economic developments in Mali and other jurisdictions in which the Company or its affiliates do or may carry on business in the future; fluctuations in the spot and forward price of gold, copper, or certain other commodities (such as diesel fuel, natural gas, and electricity); the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development; changes in mineral production performance, exploitation, and exploration successes; risks related to disruption of supply routes which may cause delays in construction and mining activities, including disruptions in the supply of key mining inputs due to the invasion of Ukraine by Russia and conflicts in the Middle East; risk of loss due to acts of war, terrorism, sabotage and civil disturbances; risks associated with new diseases, epidemics and pandemics; litigation and legal and administrative proceedings; employee relations including loss of key employees; increased costs and physical and transition risks related to climate change, including extreme weather events, resource shortages, emerging policies and increased regulations related to greenhouse gas emission levels, energy efficiency and reporting of risks; and availability and increased costs associated with mining inputs and labor. In addition, there are risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining, including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations, pressures, cave-ins, flooding and gold bullion, copper cathode or gold or copper concentrate losses (and the risk of inadequate insurance, or inability to obtain insurance, to cover these risks). Many of these uncertainties and contingencies can affect our actual results and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, us. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements. Specific reference is made to the most recent Form 40-F/Annual Information Form on file with the SEC and Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities for a more detailed discussion of some of the factors underlying forward-looking statements and the risks that may affect Barrick's ability to achieve the expectations set forth in the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Barrick disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. 6 january 2025 at 07:05 News published onand distributed by: Ashcor and Consumers Energy Announce Coal Ash Remediation at J.H. Campbell Power Plant First-of-its-kind environmental project for Michigan will turn stored ash into cement substitute CALGARY, AB and WEST OLIVE, Mich., January 6, 2025 /CNW/ - Ashcor USA Inc., a subsidiary of Ashcor Technologies Ltd. and a division of ATCO Ltd. (TSX: ACO.X) (TSX: ACO.Y), and Michigan-based Consumers Energy are excited to announce an agreement to extract and repurpose millions of tons of impounded coal ash from the soon to be retired J.H. Campbell Generating Complex. "We're doing the right thing as we make a just transition away from coal as a fuel source for electricity and that includes fulfilling our environmental responsibilities at the Campbell Generating Complex," said Norm Kapala, vice president of generation operations for Consumers Energy. "While our focus today is on meeting power needs in a more environmentally sustainable way, we are also committed to removing 60 years of ash deposits that will be beneficially repurposed." Ashcor's patented Reclaimed Ash Management (RAMtm) technology will transform stored coal ash at the power facility into a high-grade cement replacement material for use in concrete manufacturing. Since global cement manufacturing is responsible for about 8 percent of the world's total CO2 emissions, the repurposing of coal ash has environmental benefits. "We're very pleased that we will be able to reclaim ash from the Campbell Generating Complex, transforming it into a high-quality supplementary cement replacement material," said John Tiberi, President, Ashcor. "Ultimately, this manufactured ash can substitute up to 30 percent of traditional, carbon-intensive portland cement, making it a more sustainable solution for countless construction projects and concrete applications. This will be our third RAM facility, and we are eager to incorporate our operational expertise into a state-of-the-art design, tailored to J.H. Campbell's site and the market demands of the Great Lakes area." Capable of generating nearly 1,500 megawatts of electricity, the Campbell complex ? located on a 2,000-acre site in Port Sheldon Township near Holland, Mich. ? began serving Consumers Energy customers in the 1960s. Retiring the complex's three units in May 2025 is part of the company's Clean Energy Plan to meet Michigan's energy needs in the coming decades. Once Ashcor completes construction of the RAMtm facility, removal and processing of the ash will begin. Operations are planned to begin on or before Jan. 1, 2027 and the operational life of the project is expected to be about two decades. The RAMtm technology is capable of processing harvested comingled bottom ash and fly ash and transforming it into a product that meets technical specifications. There is a significant level of interest in the project, and both companies are keen to provide a high-quality product for customers. This project represents Ashcor's first foray into coal ash harvesting and beneficiation in the United States. The inaugural U.S. venture underscores the company's ambitious growth strategy and commitment to expanding its presence in this key market. By leveraging its proven expertise and innovative technologies, Ashcor is setting the stage to deliver high-quality, sustainable solutions to a broader audience of utility companies and meet the growing demand for reclaimed, high-performance materials across the construction and industrial sectors. Ashcor aims to build a strong presence in the U.S., replicating its success in Canada while tailoring its approach to meet the unique needs and priorities of its American partners. About Consumers Energy Consumers Energy is Michigan's largest energy provider, providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.8 million of the state's 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties. Consumers Energy's Clean Energy Plan calls for eliminating coal as an energy source in 2025, achieving net-zero carbon emissions and meeting 90% of customers' energy needs through clean sources, including wind and solar. About ATCO As a global enterprise ATCO Ltd. and its subsidiary and affiliate companies have approximately 20,000 employees and assets of $26 billion. ATCO is committed to future prosperity by working to meet the world's essential energy, housing, security and transportation challenges. ATCO Structures designs, builds and delivers products to service the essential need for housing and shelter around the globe. ATCO Frontec provides operational support services to government, defence and commercial clients. ATCO Energy Systems delivers essential energy for an evolving world through its electricity and natural gas transmission and distribution, and international operations. ATCO EnPower creates sustainable energy solutions in the areas of renewables, energy storage, industrial water and alternative fuels. ATCO Australia develops, builds, owns and operates energy and infrastructure assets. ATCOenergy and Rumi provide retail electricity and natural gas services, home maintenance services and professional home advice that bring exceptional comfort, peace of mind and freedom to homeowners and customers. ATCO also has investments in ports and transportation logistics, the processing and marketing of fly ash, retail food services and commercial real estate. More information can be found at www.ATCO.com. Consumers Energy Media Inquiries: Brian Wheeler Media Relations Specialist, Consumers Energy [email protected] 517-740-1545 ATCO Investor & Analyst Inquiries: Colin Jackson Senior Vice President, Financial Operations [email protected] (403) 808 2636 ATCO Media Inquiries: Kurt Kadatz Director, Corporate Communications [email protected] (587) 228 4571 SOURCE ATCO Ltd. 6 january 2025 at 07:00 News published onand distributed by: Spectral Capital Announces Patent Milestone Targets Globally Competitive Quantum Patent Strategy SEATTLE, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Spectral Capital Corporation (OTCQB: FCCN), a pioneer in Quantum as a Service (QaaS) computing and decentralized cloud infrastructure, is pleased to announce the achievement of a major patent milestone as the first step in its plan to become a globally competitive leader in quantum computing patents. "According to the World Intellectual Property Organization ("WIPO"), there were 350,000 patents filed worldwide in classical computing. Analysts estimate there are less than 40,000 patent applications that have ever been filed in quantum computing. This tells us that there is an enormous opportunity to innovate and protect innovation within quantum computing. We intend to compete hard to assert US intellectual property dominance within the quantum computing space." Announced Spectral chairman Sean Michael Brehm. "As of today, Spectral will have filed 61 patents in the field of quantum computing. We intend to file a total of 104 patents in quantum computing by the end of January 2025, completing the initial patent filing from our acquisition of the Vogon Cloud technology. With the acquisition of Verdant Quantum and Quantomo combined with the innovations being championed by Dr. Wolf Kohn, Dr. Moshik Cohen and Chairman Sean Brehm, we have committed to filing more than 500 patent applications by the close of 2025." Said Spectral's Chief Executive Officer, Jenifer Osterwalder. "According to the leading source of patent filings worldwide, The Patent 300 List, Nvidia had 464 patents issued in 2023. To be a global top 100 company in patents requires around 450 patents issued. Spectral intends to have 500 filings by the end of 2025, but these will be concentrated in quantum computing and hybrid computing. This will make us a global intellectual property leader in the field. Our innovations run the gamut, from unique methods to use synthetic data and Monte Carlo simulations to reduce quantum computing errors to novel approaches to the commoditization of cyber security in the quantum era. Spectral is proud to contribute important innovations that can help to maintain US dominance in this strategically critical domain. These patents secure our deep quantum technology platform, encompassing decentralized cloud, computing, advanced quantum algorithms, quantum databases, and room-temperature quantum chips." Concluded Brehm. About Spectral Capital Corporation: Founded in 2000 and based in Seattle, Washington, Spectral Capital (OTCQB:FCCN) is a technology startup accelerator and quantum incubator. We specialize in Quantum as a Service (QaaS), leveraging our proprietary Distributed Quantum Ledger Database technology (DQ-LDB) to offer secure, advanced storage and computing solutions. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements (as defined in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) concerning future events and FCCN's growth and business strategy. Words such as "expects," "will," "intends," "plans," "believes," "anticipates," "hopes," "estimates," and variations on such words and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Although FCCN believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, no assurance can be given that such expectations will prove to have been correct. These statements involve known and unknown risks and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond the control of FCCN. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, but are not limited to, changes in FCCN's business; competitive factors in the market(s) in which FCCN operates; risks associated with operations outside the United States; and other factors listed from time to time in FCCN's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. FCCN expressly disclaims any obligations or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in FCCN's expectations with respect thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based. For more information, please visit www.spectralcapital.com. SOURCE Spectral Capital Corporation 6 january 2025 at 07:49 News published onand distributed by: Zero Candida Announces Plans to Complete Preclinical Studies for FDA Submission by Q3 2025 VANCOUVER, BC, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Zero Candida Technologies, Inc. (TSXV: ZCT), (FSE: 9L2) (the "Company" or "ZCT"), an Israeli FemTech medical device company focused on revolutionizing women's health, announces plans to complete preclinical studies for FDA submission by Q3 2025. In accordance with FDA requirements, the company is preparing to conduct a full preclinical study of its final human-use device in up to 24 additional sheep. The company has successfully completed a two sheep protocol pilot trial in November 2023, and is now preparing to expand the study. The ZC-1-A device was confirmed as 100% safe for use, with findings concluded from the Shamir Medical Center. Conclusions from the Shamir Medical Center: two healthy, naive sheep were exposed to intravaginal pulsating blue light for 3 hours using the Zero Candida ZC-1-A device. After the illumination procedure, both animals were examined postmortem and autopsy showed no abnormal findings. Pathological evaluation of the relevant harvested organs showed no signs of thermal lesions or other pathological changes. The pathology laboratory declared the Zero Candida ZC-1-A blue light illumination device safe to use. The ZC-1-A device combines a therapeutic light source with a selected wave-length and intensity to not only destroy Vulvo-Vaginal Candidiasis ("VVC") at record speed, but is also AI-driven to transmit data in real-time to the attending physician for hybrid medicine and personalized treatment consulting. More commonly known as yeast infections, VVC affects 3 out of 4 women globally, and ZCT is providing a solution that addresses the root cause, without chemicals or side effects, breaking down barriers in this space. Zero-Candida technology (ZCT) is FemTech developing an AI smart tampon-like device based on therapeutic light source with a selected wave-length and intensity that can treat the Candida fungus successfully of 99.999% an POC overnight. Vulvo-Vaginal Candidiasis ("VVC") affects about 75% of women globally, ZCT device is a Game changer that has the potential to change the treatment of women and the FemTech industry in the world. The first of its kind technology using a controlled "Blue Light," destroys the vagina fungus at record speed and without side effects. The treatment is Safety & carried out by a tampon-like medical device which, according to medical experts, provides an optimal solution for removing the fungus altogether and preventing the recurrence of the disease. Zero Candida is working on creating a technology to enable the hybrid medicine services to be provided by gynecologists to populations that until now received no treatment at all, including, among others, in the developing countries. The ZCT device is Collect and transmits treatment data to the attending physician in real time, for assessment, treatment personalization and monitoring. Seamless data transfer through Wi-Fi chip and VoIP, allows for the convenience of remote care and treatment consulting. Another significant advantage of the Zero Candida device is treatment without side effects, supporting growing demand from women to improve their health without the use of chemicals. Eli Ben Haroosh, Founder & CEO stated: "Zero Candida is a groundbreaking and game-changing company in the world of women's medicine & women's health and non-drug treatments technology, I believe that in 2025 we will present to investors the completion of the sheep animal study with full success. From there, the path to clinical research in women will be very close". Dr. Asher Holzer CTO & Director added: "As the company's chief scientist, Zero Candida is a world leader in technology that includes hybrid medicine, we are a team of highly senior researchers leading unique research into a solution and remedy for hundreds of millions of women around the world who suffer from vaginal yeast infection". About Zero Candida: Zero Candida (ZCT) is a publicly traded FemTech company pioneering innovative solutions in women's health. The company is developing an AI-driven, tampon-like device that uses a therapeutic light source with a selected wave-length and intensity to effectively treat the Candida fungus with a demonstrated 99.999% success rate in POC. Vulvo-Vaginal Candidiasis ("VVC") affects about 75% of women globally, with 138witheach year 138 million women are affected world-wide and 492 million over their lifetime. Recurrent VVC (4 or more episodes per year) is increasingly documented to become drug resistant to existing treatments, since the root cause is poorly understood and addressed. ZCT has successfully completed a safety trial using its pre-clinical device in large animals (sheep), and is finalizing their device for human use in preparation for an upcoming clinical trial, that they secured both funding and agreements with leading hospitals in Israel and Europe for. The Company continues to grow it's global patent portfolio with applications filed in the United States, Brazil and Europe, and was recently granted a final patent in South Africa. With hybrid medicine and technology-based diagnostics, ZCT is addressing unmet needs in women's healthcare and expanding access to underserved populations, bringing the field of gynecology into the 21st century. To learn more visit www.zero-candida.com ZCT has signed pre-clinical agreements with hospitals in Israel and Europe and the company has successfully completed a safety trial for the use of a pre-clinical device in large animals (sheep) ZCT continues the development of the final product for human use in preparation for a clinical trial that will take place in June 2025. Zero Candida's device will bring the field of gynecology into the 21st century with hybrid medicine and technology-based diagnostics. At the same time as developing the treatment procedure, Zero Candida is working on creating a technology to enable the hybrid medicine services to be provided by gynecologists to populations that until now received no treatment at all, including, among others, in the developing countries. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes certain statements and information that constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. The Company provides no assurance that forward-looking statements and information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements, other than as required by law. More detailed information about potential factors that could affect financial results is included in the documents filed from time to time with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities by Zero Candida. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Contacts: Victoria Gamble [email protected] (647) 874 3767 Eli Ben Haroosh CEO & Founder [email protected] Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2420533/4723164/ZERO_CANDIDA_Logo.jpg SOURCE Zero Candida 6 january 2025 at 09:30 News published onand distributed by: Pfizer Invites Public to View and Listen to Webcast of Pfizer Discussion at Healthcare Conference Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE) invites investors and the general public to view and listen to a webcast of a discussion with Albert Bourla, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, at the 43rd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference on Monday, January 13, 2025 at 9:45 a.m. PST. To view and listen to the webcast, visit our web site at www.pfizer.com/investors. Information on accessing and registering for the webcast will be available at www.pfizer.com/investors beginning today. The transcript and webcast replay of the discussion will be made available on our web site at www.pfizer.com/investors within 24 hours after the end of the live discussion and will be accessible for at least 90 days. About Pfizer: Breakthroughs That Change Patients' Lives At Pfizer, we apply science and our global resources to bring therapies to people that extend and significantly improve their lives. We strive to set the standard for quality, safety and value in the discovery, development and manufacture of health care products, including innovative medicines and vaccines. Every day, Pfizer colleagues work across developed and emerging markets to advance wellness, prevention, treatments and cures that challenge the most feared diseases of our time. Consistent with our responsibility as one of the world's premier innovative biopharmaceutical companies, we collaborate with health care providers, governments and local communities to support and expand access to reliable, affordable health care around the world. For 175 years, we have worked to make a difference for all who rely on us. We routinely post information that may be important to investors on our website at www.Pfizer.com. In addition, to learn more, please visit us on www.Pfizer.com and follow us on X at @Pfizer and @Pfizer News, LinkedIn, YouTube and like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/Pfizer. Disclosure Notice: The webcast may include forward-looking statements about, among other things, expectations for our product pipeline, in-line products and product candidates, including anticipated regulatory submissions, data read-outs, study starts, approvals, launches, clinical trial results and other developing data, revenue contribution and projections, potential pricing and reimbursement, potential market dynamics, size and utilization rates, growth, performance, timing of exclusivity and potential benefits; our anticipated operating and financial performance, including financial guidance and projections; reorganizations, business plans, strategy and prospects; strategic reviews; capital allocation objectives; plans for and prospects of our acquisitions, dispositions and other business development activities, and our ability to successfully capitalize on growth opportunities; manufacturing and product supply; our ongoing efforts to respond to COVID-19, including our COVID-19 products our expectations regarding the impact of COVID-19 on our business, operations and financial results; and other statements about our business, operations and financial results, that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. A description of these risks and uncertainties can be found in Pfizer's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 and in its subsequent reports on Form 10-Q, including in the sections thereof captioned "Risk Factors" and "Forward-Looking Information and Factors That May Affect Future Results", as well as in its subsequent reports on Form 8-K, all of which are filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and available at www.sec.gov and www.pfizer.com. The forward-looking statements in the webcast speak only as of the original date of the webcast. Pfizer assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in the webcast as the result of new information or future events or developments. Category: Finance 6 january 2025 at 10:05 News published onand distributed by: VIVtm Ring: The World's 1st Smart Ring with Generative Sleep Aid Sound at CES 2025 The Intuitive Smart Ring Challenging Oura and Galaxy Ring Generative Sleep Aid Sound Enhancing Beyond Biometrics Measurement LAS VEGAS, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- VIV Health is thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of the VIVtm Ring, the world's first smart ring equipped with Generative Sleep aid sound, at CES 2025, starting January 7. This innovative device goes beyond basic biometric measurement and is set to revolutionize personal health management. Chris Yeh, CEO of Blitzscaling Ventures in Silicon Valley, recently identified smart rings as a leading technology trend for 2025, highlighting their potential in the personal health revolution. Yeh emphasized that the familiarity of wearing a ring provides a unique user experience, positioning the smart ring as a new standard for personal healthcare. With real-time health data collection and AI-powered health predictions, the VIVtm Ring is poised to become a standout product in the wearable market. The VIVtm Ring measures and analyzes biometric signals?including heart rate, oxygen saturation, heart rate variability, and stress levels?thereby creating a hyper-personalized health monitoring device integrated with generative sleep aid sound technology for Wellness purpose. Revolutionizing Health Management with Intuitive App Design The VIVtm Ring is the only "Intuitive Smart Ring" available globally. It features a simplified VIVtm App interface that allows users to monitor and measure health metrics easily. Unlike competitors like Oura and Samsung Galaxy Ring, which suffer from cumbersome interfaces and unnecessary scrolling, VIV Health focuses on enhancing user experience and simplifying data visualization. The device seamlessly integrates with Apple Health. The iOS app is now available, and an Android app is scheduled for release in February 2025. The basic version of the generative sleep aid sound has been completed, and a customized version will launch in the first quarter of 2025. Enhancing Sleep Through Natural Soundscapes Breaking from the industry norm of synthetic sound creation via digital signal processing, the VIVtm Ring prioritizes actual natural sounds. It includes recordings of ocean waves, deep-sea acoustics, rainfall in tranquil forests, and birdsong combined with monaural and binaural sounds to enhance sleep quality. VIV Health's proprietary patents underpin this innovative technology. The "Generative Sleep Aid Sound" technology analyzes the biometric data, sleep patterns, and sleep cycles collected by the smart ring, constructing AI algorithm-driven personalized sleep audio that significantly improves sleep quality. Distinctive Design and Advanced Technology The VIVtm Ring features a concave center designed to resist scratching, and its diamond-cut chamfered edges provide both aesthetic appeal and luxury. In contrast to the Samsung Galaxy Ring, which has uncomfortable convex sensors, the VIVtm Ring employs a unique sensor technology that ensures superior comfort. Ready for Global Market Launch VIV Health has achieved the initial mass production milestone for the VIVtm Ring, completing development in December 2024. The company will participate in CES 2025 as part of the 'Seoul Bio Hub' of the Seoul Metropolitan Government in Korea, an incubator for healthcare technology startups. Since being selected as an incubated company in August, VIV Health has received ongoing marketing and business expansion support. The VIVtm Ring is expected to commence sales in February 2025, with current processes in progress for FCC and CE certifications. Aiming for Global Success in Wellness Smart Rings With its debut at CES 2025, the VIVtm Ring aims to differentiate itself from other smart ring manufacturers like Oura, Galaxy Rin,g, and Ultrahuman by offering biometric measurement and monitoring and introducing the world's first generative sleep aid sound technology integrated within a smart ring. This marks a significant step in VIV Health's entry into the global market with a product focused on wellness. Beyond Wellness to Medical Devices VIV Health is working closely with Gangnam Severance Hospital, a top university hospital in Korea, for clinical trials to secure regulatory approval for its medical device products in 2025. "We are working with Dr. Won-Seok Jang, who previously worked at Siemens Healthcare R&D and Samsung Medison and is currently a professor at Yonsei University College of Medicine's Graduate School of Medical Device Industry, as our Chief Scientific Officer to develop the medical device" said CEO James Shin. "We are excited to unveil the Wellness Smart Ring, VIV Ring, at CES 2025 and plan to complete development of the VIVtm Pro, a medical device smart ring capable of measuring Blood pressure and Atrial fibrillation, by the end of 2025." About VIV Health VIV Health Inc., based in Seoul, South Korea, is a digital health startup committed to developing innovative health monitoring solutions through the Intuitive Smart Ring with Generative Sleep Aid Sound, measuring biometric signals such as heart rate, oxygen levels, HRV, and sleep patterns, activity tracking. Designed for everyday use with an intuitive application, the VIVtm Ring allows users to manage their health easily. VIV Health is on track to complete the development of the VIVtm Pro? medical device smart ring?by 2025, aiming to expand [CES 2025 Booth Number] Venetian Exo, Hall G 63416 [VIV Ring Website] http://www.vivring.ai [VIV Ring YouTube] https://www.youtube.com/@VIV_Ring Contacts: VIV Health Inc. James Shin, [email protected] SOURCE VIV Health 6 january 2025 at 10:30 News published onand distributed by: Finastra announces leadership transition: welcoming Chris Walters as new CEO LONDON, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Finastra, a global provider of financial services software applications, today announced a significant leadership transition. After nearly a decade of transformative leadership, Simon Paris will step down from his role as Chief Executive Officer. Chris Walters has joined Finastra and will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer. Chris brings a wealth of experience from senior executive leadership positions, driving innovation and scaling technology companies. He recently served as CEO of Pluralsight and Avantax, a leading company within Financial Services, where he orchestrated significant performance improvement and the company's successful sale. Prior to Pluralsight and Avantax, Chris served in a variety of leadership roles, including being a Partner at McKinsey & Company and the COO of Bloomberg Industry Verticals Group. On his appointment, Chris said, "I'm excited to join Finastra at this pivotal moment in its journey and am impressed by the significant progress that has been made during Simon's leadership. I look forward to working with the talented team to drive sustainable growth and continue to deliver more value to our customers, team members, and investors." Under Simon's stewardship, the company has achieved remarkable milestones, including: Leading the charge in Open Finance, following the merger of Misys and D+H in 2017 to form Finastra Building a loyal customer base of over 8,000 clients in 130 countries, including 45 of the world's top 50 banks Achieving recognition as a leader in Generative AI, with all employees upskilled and ~50 capabilities in progress from ideation to production stages Garnering extensive market accolades, including multiple product, culture, and leadership awards, and being named the #1 Banking Technology company, the #2 Financial Technology company, and appearing in the top 15 Software companies worldwide in 2024 alone Delivering record financial performance and double-digit Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) growth As Finastra embarks on its new strategic sprint in 2025, the company is well-positioned for continued success. During the transition period, Simon and Chris will work closely together to ensure a smooth handover. Simon reflected on his tenure, saying, "This journey with Finastra has been a privilege. Chris is a seasoned professional, and I am honored to 'pass the baton' to him. I leave incredibly proud of what Finastra has achieved so far and excited for the company's future under Chris's leadership." About Finastra Finastra is a global provider of financial services software applications across Lending, Payments, Treasury and Capital Markets, and Universal (retail and digital) Banking. Committed to unlocking the potential of people, businesses and communities everywhere, its vision is to accelerate the future of Open Finance through technology and collaboration, and its pioneering approach is why it is trusted by ~8,100 financial institutions, including 45 of the world's top 50 banks. For more information, visit finastra.com. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2591526/Simon_Paris_and_Chris_Walters.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1916021/5100855/FINASTRA_Logo.jpg SOURCE Finastra 6 january 2025 at 12:13 News published onand distributed by: Medicare Fraud Allegations Cast Shadow Over PACS Group (PACS) - Hagens Berman PACS Investors with Losses Encouraged to Contact the Firm Before Jan. 13, 2025 Deadline SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- PACS Group (NYSE: PACS), a nursing home operator that saw its stock soar after its initial public offering in April, has experienced a precipitous decline in recent weeks, losing 70 percent of its market capitalization since early November. The company is now grappling with allegations of deceptive Medicare billing practices, a federal regulatory investigation, delayed financial reporting and a burgeoning investor class-action lawsuit. Shareholder rights firm Hagens Berman is investigating pending claims alleging PACS and its senior executives violated the U.S. securities laws and urges investors who suffered substantial losses to submit your losses now. Class Period: Apr. 11, 2024 ? Nov. 5, 2024 Lead Plaintiff Deadline: Jan. 13, 2025 Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/pacs Contact the Firm Now: [email protected] 844-916-0895 PACS Swift Rise and Sudden Fall The company, which operates a network of independently run facilities under the Providence Group banner, offering services ranging from skilled nursing care to assisted and independent living, debuted on the New York Stock Exchange to considerable fanfare, its shares doubling from the $21 offering price within seven months. But the celebratory mood abruptly shifted in early November. The catalyst for the company's unraveling came on Nov. 4, when Hindenburg Research, a well-known activist short-selling firm, published a scathing report accusing PACS of a series of improprieties. The report alleged that the company had improperly exploited a Covid-era waiver to access Medicare funds for numerous patients, fabricated patient records to inflate revenue and earnings, and engaged in fraudulent licensing practices to circumvent regulatory oversight. Market Reaction and Federal Scrutiny The market reacted swiftly. PACS's stock price plummeted by more than 27 percent on the day the Hindenburg report was released, erasing nearly $12 in value per share. The turmoil intensified two days later, on Nov. 6, when PACS disclosed that it had received civil investigative demands from federal authorities regarding its reimbursement and referral practices, a development that appeared to corroborate elements of the Hindenburg report. The company also announced a delay in the release of its third-quarter 2024 financial results, further eroding investor confidence and sending shares down an additional 38 percent, closing at $18.09?below its initial offering price. PACS Securities Class Action The fallout from these disclosures has extended beyond the stock market. A securities class-action lawsuit, Manchin v. PACS Group, Inc., et al., No. 24-cv-08636, has been filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. The lawsuit alleges that PACS misled investors by claiming to be successfully executing a "turnaround" strategy to restore profitability to its nursing facilities. The complaint contends that this purported turnaround was, in fact, fueled by the improper acquisition of Medicare benefits for thousands of patients. Hagens Berman's Probe In response, Hagens Berman has launched an investigation into PACS Group's business practices and disclosures. "PACS Group's alleged misuse of Medicare funds and manipulation of patient records raises serious concerns about potential fraud," said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation. If you invested in PACS Group 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 PACS case and our investigation, read more Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding PACS Group 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 [email protected]. 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, 844-916-0895 SOURCE Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP 6 january 2025 at 15:36 News published onand distributed by: You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close China's two major stock exchanges hold meetings with foreign institutions Global Times) 15:00, January 06, 2025 The Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE) held a meeting recently with representatives from eight foreign institutions to deliberate on advancing comprehensive reforms in the capital market, the exchange announced on Sunday via its official WeChat account. Also on Sunday,the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (SZSE) announced that it held a meeting on Saturday with foreign institutional investors to solicit opinions on recent A-share market developments, according to its official WeChat account. The two exchanges reiterated their commitment to further opening up China's capital markets, expressing hopes that foreign institutions will jointly drive comprehensive reforms and achieve high-quality development. At both exchanges' meetings, participating foreign institutions commended the Chinese government for its policy measures and firm commitment to ensuring stable and sustained economic growth. They agreed that since the meeting held by the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee on September 26 and the Central Economic Work Conference, existing policies have been effectively reinforced, and new measures have been gradually introduced, helping stabilize social expectations and enhance international investor confidence. The SSE meeting focused on advancing the openness of China's capital markets and promoting high-quality development. Key suggestions included refining the Stock Connect and QFII mechanisms, facilitating foreign investor access to A-shares, strengthening policy communication, encouraging top-tier listed companies to engage in overseas roadshows, and enhancing shareholder returns and corporate governance. The SZSE meeting underscored the strong foundational basis for a positive long-term outlook of China's capital market, with sectors such as high-end manufacturing, information technology, and consumer electronics showing strong long-term investment potential. Participants unanimously reaffirmed their commitment to expanding and deepening their presence in the Chinese market. A SZSE official stated that foreign institutions are key participants in the A-share market. The exchange values communication with these institutions, and is dedicated to continuously enhancing transparency and predictability to foster an environment conducive to their investment and operations in China. It is hoped that foreign institutions will sustain confidence, adopt a long-term outlook, and jointly advance the sustained and robust growth of China's capital market, according to the two exchanges. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) Viewers of RTE's hugely popular Tommy Tiernan Show were left heartbroken and moved by one moment during the first episode in the latest series. The novel chat show returned to RTE One on Saturday night with Irvine Welsh, Pete Doherty and Aedin Ni Thiarnaigh with music by Sounds from a Safe Harbour featuring OPIA and Dermot Kennedy. Fans lapped up the interviews on the show, particularly Tommy's honest chat with former Libertines frontman Doherty, but it was the musical performance on the night that tugged at peoples' heartstrings. Saturday night's musical guests were Sounds from a Safe Harbour with OPIA, performing "We Didn't Know We Were Ready" as a tribute to Eoin French, the man behind musical act Talos who died at the age of 37 last year. "Jesus. This is just stunning," one person wrote of the atmospheric and emotional performance from a group of musicians and friends of Eoin, including chart-topping star Dermot Kennedy who joined the chorus. READ NEXT: Family of tragic RTE Ireland's Fittest Family teen give blessing to show scenes in new series "Unbelievable performance. Haunting! Beautiful!," another comment read, while a third viewers said they had "goosebumps watching this," adding, "absolutely stunning tribute to Eoin French." Eoin French died last August after a battle with cancer. He was just 37. The performance on Saturday night was a celebration of his life and talents. ABOVE: The group of musicians and friends of Talos talent Eoin French who performed a tribute to the late singer and songwriter on the Tommy Tiernan Show TOMORROW'S Child Montessori School, a leading early education provider in Sixmilebridge has been recognised with Business All-Star Accreditation by the All-Ireland Business Foundation (AIBF). Business All-Star Accreditation highlights the schools continued efforts to deliver an outstanding educational experience tailored to each childs unique needs. The company designs and manufactures high-quality uniforms that combine durability, comfort and style for schools and families across Ireland. As a customer-focused business, the company takes pride in understanding the needs of schools and families, ensuring a seamless and satisfying experience. Reacting to the news of her companys achievement, Founder and Limerick native, Cara O'Malley said: We are incredibly honoured to receive the Business All-Star Accreditation. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, the enthusiasm of our students, and the steadfast support of their families and the wider community. Together, weve created an environment that celebrates the power of education and its transformative potential. Deputy Chair of AIBFs Adjudication Board, Kieran Ring, said: The All-Ireland Business Foundation proudly accredits Tomorrow's Child Montessori School the Business All-Star 2025 accreditation, recognising its exceptional commitment to providing a nurturing, enriching, and child-centered educational environment. READ MORE: Limerick IFA to host Women's Christmas lunch in Adare Managing Director of the All-Ireland Business Foundation, Kapil Khanna, said: Tomorrow's Child Montessori stands out as a beacon of educational excellence and innovation. By nurturing young minds with compassion and creativity, theyve demonstrated the incredible impact of a quality Montessori education. This accreditation is a recognition of their commitment to shaping the leaders of tomorrow and supporting the community through exemplary educational standards. He said: We evaluate a companys background, trustworthiness and performance, and we speak to customers, employees and vendors. We also anonymously approach the company as a customer and report back on the experience. The business goes through at least two interviews and is scored on every part of the process against set metrics. The All-Ireland Business Foundation is an autonomous national accreditation body tasked with enterprise development and the promotion of Best-in-Class Irish businesses. As the accreditation body for the Business All-Star mark, the AIBF recognises Best-In-Class Irish businesses. Companies that merit recognition based on an independent audit of their performance, reputation, and customer-centricity. THE HSE is warning that disruptions to hospital and community services in Limerick and across the region are expected for the remainder of this week due to hazardous travelling conditions arising from the freezing weather. A small number of hospital procedures were deferred this Monday at University Maternity Hospital Limerick and Nenagh Hospital while some outpatient appointments at Ennis Hospital and Croom Orthopaedic Hospital were also deferred. HSE Mid-West says clinics for service users across the community, including in disabilities and older persons services, have also been affected by the current bad weather. It is reiterating its advice that patients should only attend their appointments if they have phoned ahead to confirm it is taking place and that it is safe for them to travel. If patients are unable to make contact with the clinic, HSE staff will contact them directly. All cancelled appointments will be rescheduled over the coming days. Services are currently being reviewed on a daily basis. "Freezing weather conditions are affecting both acute and community services. Provisions are in place to ensure patients living in remote areas can attend hospital for time-critical appointments such as dialysis. Across community settings, all efforts are being made to provide as full a service as possible in terms of home support, community nursing etc," said a spokesperson. Members of the public who are unwell are being urged to consider all available healthcare options, including local pharmacies, your GP, or the out-of-hours GP service. "We encourage people to take extreme care as they go out and about to prevent slips, trips and falls. Injury Units are open in Ennis, Nenagh and St Johns Hospitals from 8am to 8pm, every day. Injury Units can treat broken bones, dislocations, sprains, strains, wounds, scalds and minor burns," added the spokesperson. READ ALSO: Limerick City and County Council warn of severe wintery conditions in Limerick Medical Assessment Units located in Ennis and Nenagh Hospital have recently expanded their operations to 16 hours a day, 8am to 12 midnight, seven days a week. They provide a direct referral pathway for GPs to secure prompt assessment and treatment of medical patients. HSE Mid-West say the Emergency Department at University Hospital Limerick remains open 24-7 for patients with the most serious illnesses and injuries, including life-threatening emergencies. However, anyone attending the ED with a less urgent condition may face long waiting times as the hospital continues to manage high attendances. Patients seeking to access services in the community may also face delays due to the current challenges with access and high levels of illness. READ ALSO: Over 30 motorists stuck in traffic forced to abandon cars and check into hotel in Charleville Sandra Broderick, Regional Executive Officer, HSE Mid-West, commented: The current prolonged spell of harsh weather is placing additional demands on our health services at a time when we are already facing a surge in influenza and other respiratory illnesses. I am appealing to members of the public to look out for one another, in particular older relatives and neighbours, over the coming days and to familiarise themselves with the various options for accessing care. "We apologise to any patient who has been affected by deferrals in care arising from the current travelling conditions. We continue to provide unscheduled and scheduled care for urgent and time-critical patients and I would like to pay tribute to all the healthcare workers for their commitment at this time." Ms Broderick has also thanked voluntary partners such as the Civil Defence, Order of Malta and Irish Red Cross for assisting in the transport of essential personnel to maintain services for those with the highest care needs. LOVE doesn't wait for the weather forecast, and for one determined couple, neither does their wedding! Against the backdrop of a beautiful snowstorm, and the amber glow of a Status Orange weather warning, 34-year-old Glenn and 32-year-old Tara braved the bitter conditions to say their long-awaited "I do" to one another, in Limerick's enchanting Castletroy Park Hotel on Saturday, January 4. From the beginning, Glenn and Tara's love story could rival any classic fairy-tale, with the couple first meeting after physically bumping into each other outside Brown Thomas in 2012. Tara, originally from Upper Fairhill in Cork, decided to head to Limerick City for the day to go shopping, while Glenn, who is from Janesboro, was out on the town also. After colliding with one another, the connection was instant. This very moment began their long distance love story, which would see the smitten pair meet up each weekend. Two and a half years later, under the stunning view of the Riverfest fireworks, Glenn asked Tara to marry him, and she of course said yes! READ MORE: Restoration of power in over 12,000 Limerick homes could take 'multiple days' Waiting for the right time and moment, a perfect song came on to which Glenn said to his beloved, "I bet you'll never forget this song" as he got down on one knee, and now, 10 years after their engagement, the couple laughed as they confirmed they cannot remember what the song was, as they were too caught up in the beautiful moment. A match made in heaven! Thirteen years and three children later, Glenn and Tara now reside in Ballinacurra, Weston where Glenn works as a Production Operator in Zimmer while is Tara is a stay-at-home mother to their beautiful sons, Alfie, Liam, and Oliver. The day was more than special, it was perfect, and the couple simply could not keep the smiles off their faces, despite the Status Orange weather warning which shook the country. When asked were they worried about such weather, Tara responded, "After 13 years, we didn't have a choice!" and laughed, with Glenn beside her confirming that they were too full of bliss to even notice the blanket of snow just a mere few meters away from them. The Castletroy Park Hotel was a sight to behold on the evening of Saturday, January 4, to one side you had children running around having snowball fights, and to the other, you had the newlyweds, who were clearly in a world of their own. It is clear that what no matter the weather conditions were, this perfect couple could not have waited another second to say "I do." Congratulations to Mr and Mrs Power! A NUMBER of roads and sections of roads in Limerick city will close to facilitate the filming of the new Liam Neeson movie 4 kids walk into a bank. Limerick City and County Council wish to advise motorists and road users that Robbers Production film crew will be shooting on OSullivans Place and Newenham Street/Jesuit Lane, Limerick City. Roads will be closed from midnight to 11pm. As a result diversions will be in place for the duration of the closure. Emergency service vehicle access will be available at all times. Newenham St from its junction with the Crescent to its junction with Henry Street is one of the first to close to traffic and parking, from Tuesday, January 7, from 12pm to midnight. READ ALSO: Australian TV and movie star to meet fans in Limerick for exclusive event The same goes for Jesuit's Lane, from its junction with Hartstonge Street to its junction with Newenham Street and Lourigans Lane, from its junction with Newenham Street. Additionally, OSullivans Place will also be closed on this date and times, from its junction with Clare Street (R445) to its junction with Old Clare Street. On the week commencing Monday, January 13, there will be a number of sites closed for one day only up until Friday, January 17. These locations include: Hartstonge Street from its junction with OConnell Street (R526) to its junction with Pery Square. Catherine Place from its junction with Catherine Street to its junction with Hartstonge Street and Catherine Street from its junction with Cecil Street to its junction with Mallow Street. As well as this, Lower and Upper Glentworth Street will be affected, from its junction with Pery Street to its junction with Henry Street (R526). Details and all information can be found here. Artificial intelligence agents have emerged as one of the most exciting aspects of generative AI for business because they take chatbots to the next level, performing complex tasks without help from humans. These autonomous AI agents can follow instructions and do things from checking a car rental reservation at the airport to screening potential sales leads. Software companies from Salesforce to ServiceNow, Microsoft and Workday last year all announced their own AI agents, which they say can help businesses be even more hands-off in areas like recruiting employees, contacting potential sales leads, creating marketing content and managing their information-technology. If these AI agents work as promised, they could also provide businesses with the return on investment they have been looking for out of generative AI. According to some corporate technology leaders, that means the ability to tie the technology to a reduction in the number of hours employees work, or even how many new people they need to hire. Phu Nguyen, the head of digital workplace at Pure Storage, considers AI agents an obvious boost for each of the data storage firms employees: Why should executives be the only people that have a ghost writer that writes their emails or does their slides? Imagine, now, all employees have that power?" he said. Still, more AI agents can mean more problems, especially in cybersecurity, according to market research and IT consulting firm Gartner. By 2028, at least 15% of daily business decisions will be made autonomously through agentic AIup from 0% in 2024, Gartner said. But, also by that time, 25% of enterprise breaches will be tied to AI agent abuse. Here are five companies that have started integrating AI agents into their products and operations, and what they have learned in the process. Johnson & Johnson: Drug discovery agents At New Jersey-based Johnson & Johnson, AI agents are being used to help the healthcare giant with the chemical synthesis process in drug discovery. Once a promising pharmaceutical molecule has been identified, according to Chief Information Officer Jim Swanson, it needs to be measured for its cost effectiveness and reliability. And there are a lot of variables to consider in doing sofrom temperature to which reactions are being optimized. The solution: an autonomous AI agent that can determine the best time to conduct a solvent switch, a process where one solvent is swapped for another to crystallize a molecule and actually create the drug, Swanson said. Without the help of these technologies, J&Js scientists would go through multiple iterations of the same process manually, ensuring the right conditions are in place to optimize the switch. Were using agents now to take that content, with all those variables, and figure out, Whens the next time to do that switch and actually execute it?" he said. The agents are combined with traditional machine learning and digital twinsessentially digital replicas of real-world entitiesto speed up the process, he said. Still, J&J is proceeding with caution. It is being mindful of this risk with autonomous agents that could be creating bad behaviors," Swanson said, such as generating biased information and outputting hallucinations. Employees review the outputs of its agents, he said, but the company is still figuring out how that oversight can be done more systematically. Moodys: Financial analysis agents that disagree AI agents are becoming key players in research at Moodys, the New York-based financial analysis and software company. Many aspects of research, including industry comparisons and looking at companies Securities and Exchange Commission filings, were already outsourced to lower-cost areas outside the U.S., said Nick Reed, the companys chief product officer. Now, some of that work is being done by autonomous AI agentsspecifically those that work in conjunction with other agents. The company has developed a total of 35 agents, some for smaller tasks like project management, and linked them up with agents for supervising them, creating what Reed calls a multi-agent system." Moodys agents are given specific instructions, personalities and access to data and research. As a result, they can come to different conclusions, especially for complex topics like analyzing the financial fitness of a company that appears healthy, but is facing geopolitical risk. Its almost a bit like your ability as an individual person," Reed said. What we worked out is that an agent is better at not multitasking." EBay: Agents that write code and sell items EBay is using AI agents to help write code and create marketing campaigns. The company also plans to roll out agents that can help buyers find items and sellers list goods. To make it all happen, the San Jose, Calif.-based online marketplace created its own agent framework" that can use several large language models in the background, said Nitzan Mekel-Bobrov, eBays chief AI officer. The agent framework functions as an orchestrator, dictating which AI models will be used for certain tasks like translating code and suggesting code snippets, Mekel-Bobrov said. As its agents become more sophisticated, theyll be able to act more autonomouslywriting more code on their own, line by line, as human developers would, he added. As employees interact more and more with the systems, it also learns their specific preferences," he said. Deutsche Telekom: An ask me anything agent for employees Telecommunications giant Deutsche Telekom, which has roughly 80,000 employees in Germany, has rolled out an AI agent for its employees to ask any question about internal policies and benefits, and for its service staff to ask questions about its products and services. About 10,000 employees use the AI agent each week, said Jonathan Abrahamson, Deutsche Telekoms Chief Product and Digital Officer. Deutsche Telekom is also experimenting with letting the agent, which it calls askT, perform tasks on behalf of employees, Abrahamson added. An employee who wants to book their next vacation, for instance, can tell askT to put the leave request into the human resources software system on their behalf. Cosentino: Digital workforce solving customer issues The Spanish company Cosentino, which makes countertop surfaces and other stone materials for homes and buildings, has brought on a digital workforce" of AI agents to fill the gaps in its customer service staff, said Rafael Domene, the companys CIO. Cosentino calls its agents digital workers because theyre treated that waythey need to come with a set of basic skills, but they also get training when they first arrive on the job. Theyre also instructed to follow a strict process, and the company knows if they go off the rails, Domene said. Now, its digital staff" have entirely replaced the work of three to four people previously involved in clearing customer orders, and those staff are focusing on other areas of service, according to Domene. Write to Belle Lin at belle.lin@wsj.com Uber Technologies and Lyft gave up on big plans to develop their own driverless taxis years ago. Now, they are revamping their businesses to accommodate competitors who may have figured it out. The ride-hailing leaders are preparing to bring driverless taxis to your door with new app features that allow customers to use their phones to open trunks and honk horns. They are building infrastructure to maintain the high-tech taxis and training human support staff to handle riders without drivers. Both companies will have driverless carsfrom Alphabets Waymo and otherson their apps this year. In the coming months, riders in Austin, Texas, and Atlanta will be able to hail a Waymo through the Uber app. Lyft plans to offer May Mobilitys driverless taxis in Atlanta. Uber and Lyft have agreed to maintain these driverless fleets. They are finding locations to store the cars, equipping them with chargers and high-speed internet, and training workers to maintain the cameras, lidar and other gadgets that driverless vehicles depend on. This level of nitty-gritty, it takes years to build," said Andrew Macdonald, Ubers senior vice president of mobility. Its not something you can do by flipping a switch." The ride-hailing giants are reacting to growing signs that driverless technology may finally be ready to spread beyond a few experimental markets. Waymo, which made its own app available to the general public in San Francisco last year, is challenging Uber and Lyfts stronghold in parts of the city, according to market-research firm YipitData. And the swift adoption of driverless cars has some gig drivers worried. Driverless U-turns Uber and Lyft once invested billions of dollars in developing their own self-driving cars. Uber co-founder Travis Kalanick used to say the company needed to lead the pivot to driverless technology or risk becoming irrelevant. Both companies gave up on the costly endeavor during the pandemic, selling their self-driving units. Now they are competing to be the platforms on which the robotaxi technology developed by others will operate. View Full Image Uber had invested heavily in self-driving technology but sold the unit during the pandemic. Photo: Jeff Swensen/Getty Images Uber announced more than five U.S. robotaxi partnerships in the past five months, covering Los Angeles, Dallas and other cities. Uber struck a deal with Waymo that will allow customers in Austin and Atlanta to hail the companys driverless taxis only through the Uber app, a move that will prevent the driverless carmaker from taking market share in those cities. Waymo will continue to operate its own app in other cities. Uber and Lyft will get a cut of the driverless taxi bookings. The robotaxi companies get access to the ride-sharing giants tens of millions of customers without having to advertise or build the expensive technology needed to efficiently connect cars to customers. Self-driving taxis have yet to prove they can be a viable business. But the ride-hailing leaders are betting robotaxi companies will prefer to join with already popular, established platforms to avoid downtime for their vehicles. Human-driven cabs arent going away anytime soon. The future will be a combination of regular taxis and driverless cars. Uber Chief Executive Dara Khosrowshahi has said it might take a decade before half of Ubers U.S. trips are on self-driving cars. Even then, the technology might not work in densely populated cities like New York or under some weather conditions, said Robert Mollins, analyst at Gordon Haskett Research Advisors. No ones saying lets go send some of these cars to Boston in the middle of winter," he said. What happens when all of these sensors get covered in snow?" General Motors recently pulled the plug on developing its Cruise self-driving cars. Teslaplans to start producing its Cybercab before 2027. Amazon.com is testing its Zoox autonomous vehicles. Riders hail the new tech Still, customers seem to be warming up to the technology. In August, Waymos picked up close to 500,000 passengers in California, up from fewer than 20,000 a year earlier. Consumer receipts analyzed by YipitData within Waymos operating zone in San Francisco found that the company had taken a 22% share in November. Lyfts share in the area fell to 22% the same month, from 34% in August 2023. Ubers share in the area slipped 10 percentage points to 55% over the same period. View Full Image Graphic: WSJ Uber and Lyft said they havent lost riders to Waymo, and their bookings continue to grow in the city. Lyft CEO David Risher said self-driving cars have expanded the overall ride-hailing market by giving people new reasons to ride. He said tourists in San Francisco are ordering driverless taxis for their novelty and because Waymo uses high-end Jaguarsa luxury that wont be the norm as automated-vehicle technology gets installed in less-luxurious cars. Tomorrows AV experience will be quite different," he said on an earnings call. Daniel Garcia was among a small group of San Franciscans who tested Waymos free of charge from 2023. He loved that he could avoid small talk with another human while controlling the temperature and music. He stopped using Uber and Lyft. After Waymo started charging and allowing everyone on the app, the wait times started getting longer and fares climbed. It really was a dream until it was harder to get it," Garcia said. He has started using Uber and Lyft again, but not as much as he used to because he will still wait for a Waymo when he has time. View Full Image A screenshot of new features Uber has built for the app, which will let customers honk horns and open car trunks from their phones. Photo: Uber Uber wont say how much it is investing in driverless-taxi infrastructure. It is still a small amount, said analyst Mollins. All they are doing right now is learningeverything is in test and learn mode." Uber created a feature on its app that will allow customers to remotely honk the horn of a driverless taxi to help them locate their ride. It is scouting for locations for autonomous-vehicle depots that will store and service the cars in areas that arent too far from rider traffic. The company is working with existing fleet partnersthe ones that operate the premium Uber Black serviceto transform their facilities into hubs for autonomous vehicles. That means equipping them with hundreds of electric charging stations and raising the internet speed to 10 times that of a typical office to handle all the data the driverless taxis need. Lyft is transforming its Flexdrive car-rental locations into depots for driverless taxis and adding new features to its app. Riders will be able to adjust the temperature inside a driverless car through their phones. The company has trained artificial intelligence on its app to answer riders basic questions about unlocking cars and starting rides. It is teaching staff to do some of the more thornier things" like helping customers retrieve lost items from driverless cars, said Jeremy Bird, an executive vice president at Lyft. The company is also building technology to let individuals list their personal autonomous vehicles on its app. You can have your own fleet of 10 AVs, which you can put on our platform and manage," Bird said. Some human drivers are feeling squeezed out. San Francisco Bay Area Lyft driver Ghulam Sakhi said it was already tough to make money after companies cut back on bonuses a few years ago. Then, last year, finding some of the high-paying trips became tougher. With competition from Waymo weighing on fares in tourist hot spots and downtown, Sakhi is ferrying passengers to and from the airport, where driverless taxis arent allowed to go. Waymo isnt the only problem," he said. Maybe next year the Tesla robotaxi will come. What about those?" View Full Image Waymos driverless cars have become a tourist attraction in San Francisco. Photo: Poppy Lynch for WSJ Write to Preetika Rana at preetika.rana@wsj.com Wealthy Indians are increasingly commissioning unique, handcrafted, luxury timepieces from top global watchmakers. For instance, a business family in Maharashtra has ordered a custom-made grand fireplace clock worth 5-6 crore from a prestigious French watchmaker. The clock, which will be ready in the coming months, is being created by April H., a private French company that has been making luxury timepieces for over 300 years. Then, a 40-year-old Delhi-based luxury watch connoisseur recently acquired his first Ludovic Ballouard watch. The Geneva-based independent watch company is a brand very few in the world know about, as most of its watches start at a steep price tag of $70,000 ( 60 lakh) apiece. The buyer customised the piece for himself and etched the dates of birth of his two children, ultimately shelling out 1.6 crore for the watch. This rising interest reflects in the countrys import numbers. In the first 11 months of 2024, India imported 250 million Swiss Franc or CHF (or 2,360 crore) worth watches, growing 27.6% over the same period in 2023. In fact, 2024s 11-month number is higher than that of the entire 2023, which saw imports of 2,093 crore, per data from Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry FH, a non-profit, private trade association that represents the Swiss watch industry. Also read | Rolex to Hublot: Indians find more time for Swiss luxury The data said in the month of November, the US grew as a market at 4.7% and was the only one of the top 10 markets to post a year-on-year (y-o-y) increase. Markets like Japan, Hong Kong, the UK, Singapore, UAE and China saw varying degrees of y-o-y decline from -2.to the steepest decline of 27% in the case of China. On the other hand, markets like India, South Korea and Spain achieved positive growth, with India leading the pack at 60% y-o-y growth in November followed by South Korea at 21.7% and Spain at 33.5%. Each of these markets continued to build on their successes of previous months, said the data. To be sure, the top country by value for Swiss watch imports is the US, which imported 4 billion CHF worth watches in the first 11 months of 2024. China was second, with imports of 1.9 billion CHF worth Swiss watches in the same period. Segment wise growth Experts say this growth could be indicative of a mixed picture in consumption and may not necessarily be driven by pureplay luxury demand. While the value of the domestic high-end watch market is growing on the back of high price-point watches, the volumes are coming from 50,000-3 lakh priced watches, according to Raahuul Kapoor, founding partner of Delhi-based consultant, Luxury Ampersand Frolics. Also read | Indians snap up Swiss luxury watches in H1 He added that some of the growth could also be coming from the import of demo piecesused and pre-owned watches that are brought into India to potentially make their way to other countries. Kapoor pointed out that the value of imported watches has sharply increased in the very-high priced segment. For example, in 2014, the most expensive watch imported was priced at 42 lakh, with very few units in that price range," he said. Today, as many as 50-odd watches priced over 1-2 crore must be imported each year." Micro-brands also flooding the Indian market Till some years ago, many companies focused on retailing more mainstream, easy-to-retail brands such as Rolex, according to Kapoor, but as the market has evolved, independent brands such as Laurent Ferrier, Purnell, Harry Winston, etc. have become sought after. This is helping grow the entire luxury watch business in India," he said. Nitin Chainani, a Delhi-based bespoke timepiece advisor, said his company has now turned its focus more towards independent watch making brands rather than large-ticket group brands because collectors are asking for more unique pieces. Many collectors have moved on from the Rolex, Cartier and Omega trend since theyve already acquired most of those in their collection," he said. Chainani works with Swiss brands like Cyrus watches and Reservoir, among others, which typically fall in the price range of 5-20 lakh per piece. Also read | FTA will help reduce luxury watch taxes: Panerai CEO Jean-Marc Pontroue The most popular price category of watches 50,000 to 3 lakhis driving the volumes in the business, for instance, Charriol, SevenFriday etc. SevenFriday was a brand that Kapoors company had first brought to India in 2014. A lot of the buyers of luxury watches in India are now looking for legacy watches. These come with a heritage and a providence that goes beyond just a brand name; the actual value in the piece comes from the craftsmanship such as brands like those made by Ludovic Ballouard or GOS Watches Sweden," Kapoor of Ampersand Frolics added. Next, the company will also bring in two new luxury brands to India. An uncertain future? Ashok Goel runs Delhi-based Luxury Time Pvt. Ltd, a distributor of brands such as Hublot, Tag Heuer, and Zenith. He said that Tag Heuer saw growth, while Hublot was stable, and Zenith showed degrowth. Swiss exports to India are showing world-beating growth in percentages, but the industry is puzzled as to where these numbers are coming from," he said. On the ground, these numbers do not tally with the actual sales. While our overall growth value is high, the per-unit growth compared to the same period last year is in low-single digits." Goel said that 2024 saw some reduction after the high-consumption years post-pandemic. He also expressed concern over the possibility of the GST rate being revised upwards for luxury watches, which could create a position of uncertainty. Also read | Titans Helios to launch exclusive luxury watch stores as demand surges Consultant Chainani said that overall, the business is similar to last year because in the middle of the year, there were concerns about a potential hike of GST from 18% to 28% on luxury goods including watches. Further increasing this tax would hamper the industry a lot. But at the same time, India and Switzerland have signed an EFTA to phase out import tariffs on Swiss watches from 22% to 0%, so hopefully things should stabilise," Chainani said. Earlier this year, watch retailer Ethos Limited, in its second quarter report ended September, told shareholders that the first half of FY25 was marred by several challenges, starting with the extreme heatwaves that led to more customers spending time outside of India. The general election resulted in slower cash movements and heavy rainfall in certain areas with fewer walk-ins, it said. There were also very few auspicious wedding dates in the first half of the year, which was a key challenge. But despite these, our share of luxury and high luxury watches for H1 FY25 stood at an all-time high," the statement noted. We are optimistic about the third quarter which includes major festive events and an increase in weddings. Traditionally, this period brings a surge in consumer spendings and early signs are already encouraging. In October we had a record month with a 47% year-on-year growth." And read | From watches to bejewelled lighters, India catches the fancy of luxe labels A senior Wipro Ltd executive overseeing the company's life sciences and consumer businesses in the Americas has resigned to become chief executive of a US-based fintech firm, marking another high-profile exit from Indias fourth-largest IT services company. Srini Rajamani, who joined Wipro in 2005 and rose to lead its life sciences and consumer businesses, is set to take the helm at Opus Technologies, a Georgia-based fintech specializing in card management systems and payment gateways. With a global workforce of about 800 employees, Opus operates offices in Pune and Hyderabad, alongside locations in the UK, the US, and Canada. Read this | Was 2024 indeed better than last year for the big boys of Indian IT? In a phone interview with Mint late Sunday, Rajamani confirmed his decision to step down after nearly two decades with Wipro. His last day at the Bengaluru-based software giant is Monday. Moving to nimbler waters Rajamani attributed his move to the appeal of smaller, specialized firms. Today, clients of IT services companies want to be in the top five accounts and not the 25 largest accounts of a software service provider," he said. Customers prefer to work with companies that are razor-focused, and Opus excels in the fintech domain with deep expertise in payments solutions." Wipro, which generated $10.8 billion in revenue last year, derived about 18.8%or $2 billionfrom its consumer business and 13.2%or $1.4 billionfrom healthcare clients. While overall revenue declined 2.2% year-on-year, healthcare posted 8.5% growth, offset by a 4.2% dip in the consumer business. Read this | Wipro tasks insider to revive fortunes in its No. 2 market Rajamanis departure marks yet another exit since Wipro appointed veteran Srinivas Pallia as the companys chief executive in April last year. His exit follows that of Laura Langdon, who stepped down as Wipros chief marketing officer in December and was replaced by Ranjita Ghosh. Leadership churn at Indias fourth-largest IT services company is far from new. Despite Pallias preference for promoting internal candidates to top roles, the company has seen significant turnover. Over the past two years, at least 30 senior executives at the level of senior vice-president and above have exited, driven either by better opportunities or limited growth prospects under former chief executive Thierry Delaporte. Rajamanis move to a smaller firm is not unprecedented either. Rajan Kohli, who led Wipros digital and consulting business during his 28-year tenure, left in August 2023 to become the head of CitiusTech, a Mumbai-based medtech company. During his tenure, Rajamani helped Wipro secure a five-year, $500 million contract with New York-based cosmetics giant Estee Lauder in 2021. Wipro has yet to comment on his exit. An email sent to the company on Monday remained unanswered. IT exodus The trend extends beyond Wipro. At Tech Mahindra Ltd, long-time CEO CP Gurnani co-founded the AI startup AIonOS in Singapore last April, while Jagdish Mitra, another Tech Mahindra veteran, launched Humanize, a Bengaluru-based AI startup. This migration is driven by several factors," said Ritu Sethi, partner for technology, outsourcing, and offshoring at ABC Consultants, a New Delhi-based executive search firm. (The most prominent being) the desire to create and build an organization of their own on a blank canvas, the opportunity to drive faster and more visible changes while directly impacting stakeholders, and the financial incentives, including substantial equity and a direct stake in the firm." Also read | Data check: Why C-suite salaries jumped in FY24and did staff pay keep pace? Sethi also pointed to the hierarchical structure of large organizations, where climbing to C-suite roles often requires years of waiting, as another driver. In 2018 United States President Donald Trump started a trade war with China. Mexico benefited; companies seeking to avoid tariffs by diversifying production out of China saw the country as a good option thanks to affordable labour, decent infrastructure and, most importantly, its free-trade agreement with the United States. As Mr Trumps second term approaches, that logic is souring. Chinese companies looked to Mexico more than most. Their investment in the country has surged. Mr Trump (who has already threatened to apply a tariff of 25% to Mexican imports on day one" unless it stops migrants and drugs from illegally crossing the border) believes those firms are using Mexico as a tariff-free gateway to the United States. His conviction may end up blowing apart the United States-Mexico-Canada Free Trade Agreement (USMCA). Concerns about Chinese activity in Mexico are bipartisan and long-running. In 2019 American officials worried that Chinese exporters were simply using Mexico as a route to the United States market, especially for steel and aluminium. This has largely been dealt with by Mexico imposing tariffs on imports of the metals from China, and a melt and pour" rule that requires steel to be substantially transformed" in Mexico before it is exported to the United States. Outright fraudwhere products are imported from China, relabelled as Made in Mexico, then exported to the United Statesis probably rare. View Full Image Chart: The Economist Today the focus is on Chinese firms assembling or manufacturing products in Mexico for sale in the United States. There is plenty of this happening. In 2023 Mexico overtook China to become the leading exporter of goods to the United States; meanwhile, Chinese exports to Mexico have boomed (see chart 1). In 2002, Mexican exports to the United States contained less than 5% Chinese components by value. By 2020 that number was 21%. Electric-vehicle (EV) production is the big issue. Most of the EVs sold worldwide are Chinese-made, usually at a lower price than those made by American firms, and of equivalent or higher quality. In September President Joe Biden raised tariffs on imports of EVs from China to 100%; without them, sales would boom. But the tariffs do not apply to vehicles made in Mexico. Mr Trump claims that Chinese carmakers are constructing monster" factories south of the border. That is false. Just one Chinese joint venture makes EVs for the Mexican and regional market. BYD, Chinas leading EV manufacturer, has said it will build a factory in Mexico to churn out 150,000 vehicles a year, but it has yet to materialise. This month Solarever, a smaller producer, announced it would build a factory in northern Mexico. The areas where Chinese firms really are expanding tend to be further down the supply chain. Eight Chinese auto-parts manufacturing companies operated in Mexico in 2018. By the end of 2023 there were at least 20. They make trims and battery casings as well as high-tech elements such as software to assist drivers. Many cars made in Mexico with Chinese components meet the USMCA requirement that 75% of a car must be made in Mexico, whether by Chinese companies or otherwise, to qualify for free trade. But it doesnt matter if it is legal, says Joshua Meltzer of Brookings, a think-tank in Washington: Political tolerance [for China] is going down." Anything with a whiff of China is seen as suspicious. Made by China is the new Made in China," says Jorge Guajardo, a former Mexican ambassador to China. Today the free trade that USMCA enshrines is subordinate to the China concern, says Enrique Dussel Peters, who runs the Centre for Chinese-Mexican Studies at the National Autonomous University of Mexico. The issue looms over a review of the deal in 2026. In September Marco Rubio, Mr Trumps nominated secretary of state, warned of Chinas rampant exploitation of Mexico as an intermediary," and its manipulation of USMCA". Politicians in Canada have suggested booting Mexico out of USMCA and drawing up a bilateral free-trade agreement. View Full Image Chart: The Economist Mexican officials complain that the focus on Chinese investment in Mexico is hypocritical; Chinese FDI into Mexico is small compared with the billions China invests in the United States every year. But in Mexico Chinese FDI has been growing sharply, while its FDI into the United States has fallen. It does not help that Mexicos official FDI figures seem to undercount Chinese investment by a factor of six (see chart 2), according to the Rhodium Group, a research firm, which finds that $13bn has been invested cumulatively since 2013. Mexico is paying the price for being slow to read the writing on the wall", says a North American diplomat. Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexicos president, has read it. Her government is scrambling to please its northern neighbour, setting up a body to screen foreign investments that apes those in the United States and Canada. It has plans to substitute imported Chinese components with ones made in Mexico. Marcelo Ebrard, the economy secretary, says Mexico must start making microchips and lithium batteries. Other Trump-pleasing measures are coming thick and fast. Mexico wants to be a team with Canada and the United States," says Luis Rosendo Gutierrez, an official with Mexicos economy ministry. Yet the discussion is detached from the reality of the complex nature of trade, says Mr Dussel Peters. Foreign companies in Mexico, predominantly American ones, account for 70% of the exports to the United States. American car makers like General Motors and Ford are among those that have integrated Chinese companies into their supply chains. Some encouraged Chinese suppliers to set up shop in Mexico. Import substitution takes time and requires incentives. Mexicos cash-strapped government cannot offer the kinds of subsidies that are available for domestic production of chips and batteries in the United States. And some items simply cant be sourced outside China. We havent developed supply chains in the region for items like batteries for EVs," says Odracir Barquera of the Mexican Automotive Industry Association. Meanwhile Mexico has another reason to fret. In the early 2000s it lost out to China in exports to the United States. Now, if Chinese companies start displacing Mexican ones in North American supply chains, Mexico will suffer again, notes Margaret Myers of the Inter-American Dialogue, a think-tank in Washington. Here American and Mexican officials see eye-to-eye. The message to the United States is how do I help you make what you import from Asia?" says Mr Gutierrez. Because it will help us, too." SEOULNorth Korea carried out its first missile test since Donald Trumps election victory, a sign that Pyongyang appears to be in no rush to curtail its illicit activities and pivot back to diplomacy despite a turnover in U.S. administration. The Monday launch of an intermediate-range missile ended a nearly two-month absence of North Korean weapons teststhe most-recent activity having come just hours before Americans took to the polls on Nov. 5. With the president-elects inauguration two weeks away, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has declined opportunities to show Trump and the U.S. he has peace talks on his mind. Rather, hes opted for contempt, if not aggression. Kim, in a November speech weeks after the U.S. election, belittled prior diplomacy with Washington, which he claimed harbored an unchanging aggressive and hostile policy" toward Pyongyang. North Koreas top governing body decided to enact the toughest" counteraction against the U.S. at year-end meetings. Then, Kim skipped a New Years address that had previously served as his foreign-policy bully pulpit, where he outlines the regimes thinking and priorities. After three face-to-face meetings with Trump in 2018 and 2019, Kim was forced to lock down North Korea over Covid-19 fears, then spent four years giving the Biden administration the cold shoulder. Trumps incoming national-security team is staffed by several former senior North Korean negotiators. At Julys Republican National Convention, Trump suggested he could better control the Kim regimes missile threat if he returned to the White House. Its nice to get along when somebody has a lot of nuclear weapons or otherwise," said Trump, who added he felt that Kim misses me." A return of Trumpthe first and only sitting U.S. president to meet a North Korean leaderoffers Kim an opportunity for dealmaking that he cannot let slip away, although it is now a question of when and how, said Sungmin Cho, a political-science professor at Sungkyunkwan University in Seoul. In the buildup to potential talks, Kims hand looks stronger to the U.S. and Trump, by demonstrating how North Koreas weapons tests can occur with relative impunity. For Kim, the missile test is really a reminder that we are here, we may do something," Cho said. So dont forget about us until the right moment comes." A significant reason for Kims bravado is a tighter bond with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The two leaders in June signed a mutual defense pact at a summit in Pyongyang. North Korea has provided munitions, missiles and soldiers to help Russia fight Ukraine. Meanwhile, Moscow has given diplomatic cover at the U.N., upticks in cross-border trade and other military support. The two countries military ties could deepen even more, with Russia showing a willingness to provide North Korea with advanced space and satellite technology in return for the Kim regimes war assistance, said Secretary of State Antony Blinken at a Monday press conference in Seoul. He didnt offer a specific timeline for such a technology transfer. This is a two-way street," said Blinken, who is on a multi-stop trip that includes Japan and France. His remarks came hours after Pyongyangs latest missile test, which he condemned and called yet another violation of multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions. The Monday missile launch occurred around noon local time, flying around 680 miles before splashing into the waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan, said Seoul and Tokyo officials. The Kim regime has conducted weapons tests in January for each of the past four years. The factory floor of Schneider Electrics plant in Conselve, Italy, hums with urgency. Workers at the power-equipment companys facility, which is in the midst of a major expansion, are busily assembling advanced cooling systems for the data centres underpinning the development of artificial intelligence (AI). The key is the integration of grid to chip and chip to chiller," says Pankaj Sharma, an executive at the company, referring to a new design it recently developed with Nvidia, an AI chip giant. View Full Image Graphic: The Economist Over the past year Schneiders market capitalisation has risen by over a third, to around $140bn. It is not the only maker of electrical gear that is booming (see chart 1). The market value of Hitachi, a Japanese conglomerate, has tripled since the start of 2022, thanks in part to the rapid expansion of its power-equipment division. After a difficult 2023, weighed down by troubles in its wind-turbine division, shares in Siemens Energy rose by 300% last year, outperforming even those of Nvidia, owing to fast-growing sales in the German firms grid-technology business. Electricity is a key driver for us," explains Christian Bruch, its chief executive. View Full Image Graphic: The Economist Scott Strazik, boss of GE Vernova, a power-equipment business that was spun out from the conglomerate last year, sees a supercycle" in the making. Demand for everything from transformers and switchgears to high-voltage transmission cables is being turbocharged. The International Energy Agency (IEA), an official forecaster, estimates that global investment in grid infrastructure reached nearly $400bn in 2024, up from a little over $300bn in 2020 and reversing a decline that began in 2017 on the back of slowing demand in China (see chart 2). The IEA forecasts that spending will rise to around $600bn annually by 2030. What is behind the surge? The decarbonisation of electricity generation is one factor. Adding wind and solar power, often in remote locations, requires extending power lines and investing in hardware and software to help manage their intermittency. In Britain, the governments ambition to achieve a net-zero grid by 2030 has prompted network operators to submit investment proposals amounting to nearly $100bn over five years. Even in America, where the incoming president is a climate-change denier, investment in renewable energy is expected to continue rising in the years ahead thanks to the plummeting cost of solar and wind power. Electricitys rising share of energy consumption is a second force propelling investment. The IEA forecasts that demand for electricity, from both clean and dirty sources, will grow six times as fast as energy overall in the decade ahead, as it powers a growing share of cars, home-heating systems and industrial processes. California alone will need $50bn in electricity-distribution upgrades by 2035 to charge its electric vehicles (EVs). Mr Strazik of GE Vernova reckons that this shift from molecules to electrons" is just getting started. The worlds total energy needs are also continuing to risea third force underpinning rising investment in electricity infrastructure. Economic growth, and rising use of air-conditioning, are pushing up demand in developing countries. Goldman Sachs, a bank, estimates that Indias grid will require $100bn of investment between 2024 and 2032 as its economy grows. Rystad, an energy consultancy, forecasts that annual grid investment in China will increase from around $100bn in 2024 to more than $150bn by 2030. Spending by tech giants on AI is contributing to rising energy demand, too, flowing through to increased electricity consumption and investment. Some data centres gobble up as much energy as a nuclear-power plant generates, requiring network operators to upgrade transformers, power lines and control equipment. To accommodate the growth of data centres Tokyo Electric, Japans largest power utility, plans to spend more than $3bn by 2027 on its infrastructure. The boom in data centres has also caused spending by developers on cooling equipment and other ancillary electrical gear to rocket. A final force behind the investment surge is grid fortification. Extreme weather events, from deadly storms to raging wild fires, are growing more common, causing over $100bn in damages worldwide in 2023. Only abouthalfof that was covered by insurance. In December Americas Department of Energy provided a$15bn loanguarantee to PG&E, a Californian power utility hit hard by wildfires in recent years, to help it invest in making its grid more resilient. Across much of the rich world, electricity grids are old and creaking. In Europe the infrastructure is over 40 years old, on average. Grid infrastructure was not built for resilience but for transmission," says Mr Bruch of Siemens Energy. As investment in grid infrastructure has soared, bottlenecks have emerged in the supply chain. Wood Mackenzie, another energy consultancy, estimates that a global shortage of transformers has led prices to rise by 60-80%since 2020, with waiting times tripling to five years or longer. That is spurring both capital spending and innovation among suppliers. Mr Bruch says his firm is investing record amounts to tackle an order backlog that now exceeds 120bn ($124bn). GE Vernova, whose backlog for electrical gear has reached $42bn, has said it will plough $9bn into capital expenditure and research and development by 2028. Hitachis energy business, which also has a hefty backlog, has spent $3bn on capital expenditure over the past three years and plans to spend another $6bn by 2027, including $1.5bn in transformers. Expanding manufacturing capacity will leave these firms exposed if the electricity supercycle turns out to be no such thing. Growth in EV sales has already slowed in many rich countries. The AI boom could yet turn to bust. To reassure shareholders, Andreas Schierenbeck, boss of Hitachis energy business, says that his company has been getting big customers to reserve capacity with upfront payments, and is shifting from customised orders to framework contracts with standardised designs. All this makes future revenue more dependable and expanding production capacity less risky. For now, spending on electricity infrastructure shows no sign of easing, as grid operators grapple with rising power consumption, a changing generation mix and ageing infrastructure. Those pressures will only increase, predicts Mr Bruch. That is why we are bullish." 2025, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com New Delhi: The first draft rules of Indias Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023 have raised concerns and confusion around its proposed idea of a parent needing to verify their identity when a child seeks to use an online platform. Lawyers and policy consultants said that the proposed framework to verify whether an individual claiming to be an adult is so, on top of being related to a child, can cause complications for individuals, and become a burden for companies. It could also raise confusion, since the first draft of the DPDP rules do not define key terms such as detrimental, wellbeing and due diligence. The rules, published in the public domain on Friday, need parents and guardians of underage minors, defined as individuals below 18 years of age, to authenticate themselves as responsible for the underage usersusing tokenized data or government identification through the Digilocker platform to do so. Burden on companies However, early reactions of policymakers have stated that the process prescribed by the rules could add significant compliance burden on companieswithout explicitly suggesting so. Supratim Chakraborty, partner at law firm Khaitan & Co, said that the current set of rules only offer a basic framework for how the parental verification process may work." Further rounds of consultations may lead to amendmentssuch as striking a balance for companies in terms of their responsibilities and liabilities to establish a verifiable relationship between a parent and a minor. That aside, the DPDP Act does not leave room for rules to define important words used in the Act in the context of children's personal data, such as detrimental and wellbeing. This may be especially important when it comes to the usage of significant online platforms by individuals under the age of 18," he added. The verifiability of parentage can make matters further complicated. Kazim Rizvi, founding director at policy think-tank The Dialogue, said that there could be concerns around sharing too much sensitive data with private tech firms, and how that can impact privacy and safeguarding of information. Less data sharing A senior official directly associated with the rulemaking process concurred with Chakraborty and Rizvis assessment, adding, A crucial part of the rulemaking process is to minimize data sharing wherever possiblethis will be a key concern that will need to be addressed for the sake of both users and companies alike." Companies, on this note, are yet to voice their concerns around the draft rules. Emails sent to Meta and Google, seeking reactions to the law, did not immediately receive responses. The two companies, which run Instagram and YouTube, respectively, will directly come under the ambit of the rules of DPDP Act, 2023. A senior executive at one of the companies, requesting anonymity, said that prima facie, making tech companies responsible to establish parental identity proof is unprecedentedif users of tech platforms do not themselves declare the information voluntarily." Overall, there is a considerable amount of ambiguity that can still be addressedbut the current framework does succeed in establishing the direction that companies and individuals are to follow," Chakraborty added. Starting point For the Centre, the rules represent a starting point to safeguard minors against threats on online platforms. A senior industry official, with direct knowledge of the matter, told Mint on condition of anonymity, There is an understanding within the IT ministry that creating a framework that is watertight, beneficial for all parties, and yet conducive enough could wildly vary for each stakeholder involved. The current drafts proposal is to largely ensure that a basic framework is put in placewhich current and future consultations and amendments can solve." The consultation process for the rules, which began on 3 January, will conclude on 18 February. In 2022, Brian Riley opened a bicycle factory in Seymour, Ind., shifting production of his Guardian Bikes brand to the U.S. from China. The problem for him now: Nearly all the parts still come from China. Riley had aspirations to use American-made components before the November presidential election of Donald Trump, who has vowed to enact steep tariffs on imports from China. Riley, founder and chief executive of the childrens bike maker, hopes these tariffs will help him shift to U.S. components faster by making American-made bikes and parts more competitive against Chinese-made ones. But it is still a tall order. Chinese manufacturers have dominated the bicycle supply chain for decades. Almost all of the bicycles sold in the U.S. are imported, and the vast majority of those are made in China or assembled from Chinese parts, according to industry estimates and trade data. A typical bicycle is made of 30 to 40 parts, most of them from different Chinese manufacturers. For now, components from China represent about 90% of the total cost of Guardians parts. By the end of next year, Riley hopes that figure will be about 20%. Guardian is starting production of its own bike frames and is working to source parts such as grips and reflectors stateside. As a result of Guardians new manufacturing, American-made parts could represent about 60% of the cost. Riley moved his production to the U.S. because he wanted to build a safer bike that could prevent the kind of head-over-heels braking accident that had injured his grandfather years earlier. Many bikes sold at retailers such as Walmart or Target arent fully assembled when they are shipped to the retailers from overseas, so manufacturers dont have oversight on the final assembly. By controlling every aspect of production, we can guarantee the quality of every bike that rolls off our assembly line," he said. Guardian prices its childrens bikes between $149 and $399. That puts the companys direct-to-consumer bikes at a price point between mass-market brands and more premium ones sold at bike shops. Moving production to the U.S. isnt a viable option for all bike companies. After Trump increased tariffs on Chinese imports in 2018, premium childrens bike maker Prevelo Bikes moved its production to Taiwan. It has since expanded production to Thailand and Cambodia. Prevelos bikes range in price from $240 to $1,400. The factories it uses are highly specialized with expensive machinery, said Prevelos chief executive, Jacob Rheuban. I am not in the position to build those factories here," said Rheuban. If we are looking to reshore, we need a larger movement on behalf of the entire industry." Even if Prevelo assembled bikes here, it would still be building them using foreign components subject to tariffs, Rheuban said. Larger manufacturers also have shifted production in response to U.S. tariffs on China. Taiwanese bike company Giant Group, which makes about four million bikes a year, recently opened a factory in Vietnam because the U.S. imposes lower tariffs on imports from that country, a Giant spokesperson said. The Vietnam factory currently has a production capacity of 100,000 bikes a year. Giant also has facilities in China and Europe. Riley decided to locate his factory in Indiana because it was close enough to most places in the U.S. for two-day shipping and because it was near steel mills where the company could source material when it eventually made its own frames. Opening a factory in the U.S. wasnt easy. Riley was able to hire a group of skilled workers because a local ironing-board manufacturer went out of business. At first, workers were slow to build the bikes, putting together 100 a day. It took time and constant tweaking of the assembly line to improve their speed and efficiency. Guardians labor costs shot up, though they were partially offset by the lower freight costs of shipping individual components from China rather than mostly assembled bikes. We had to bite the bullet," said Riley, who is 37 years old. We had to be willing to lose money for a while to get to the other side of the strategy." The factorys 250 staff can churn out up to 2,700 bikes a day, and Guardian has the scale to begin contracting with U.S. parts manufacturers. Guardian plans to begin making bike frames at the factory this year, using American steel. The bike maker has asked its Brazilian rim supplier to consider a facility in Indiana near Guardians factory. Guardian is also considering making rims itself. The bike maker has approached U.S. suppliers that could provide grips and reflectors. Other labor-intensive parts such as hubs or cranks may be harder to source in the U.S., Riley said. During Trumps first term, tariffs on assembled childrens bikes from China rose to 36% from 11%. Assembled bikes were later exempted, which meant Guardian paid levies for imported parts while some of its competitors didnt pay tariffs to import assembled bikes. Since the U.S. lifted the assembled-bike exemption in 2024, the cost to make Guardians bikes has been more comparable with other bikes sold in the U.S., Riley said. In addition, Trump has proposed cutting the corporate tax rate to 15% from 21% for companies that make their products in the U.S. and expand tariffs on foreign-made goods. Everyone says making bikes here is impossible," Riley said. He said his factory shows it isnt. Write to Natasha Khan at natasha.khan@wsj.com Afcons Infrastructure Ltd stock is finally seeing increased interest from investors after a tepid listing at 474 compared to the issue price of 463 in November. The stock rose to a new high of 570 on Friday. Sure, the recent excitement in the stock was following the order win of 1,085 crore from Defence Research and Development Organization. Still, a big opportunity for Afcons lies in the upcoming Vadhvan Port in Maharashtra. It will be the largest deep-water port in India. As it is likely to be operational by 2030, the ordering process should be in full swing over the next two-three years. The total project cost including land acquisition is 76,220 crore. Vikram Suryavanshi, analyst at Phillip Capital, believes that the potential of total orders for the construction of port could be at least one-third of the project cost or 25,000 crore. As every infrastructure company has limitations of execution capabilities, the award of orders could be divided among several companies. Suryavanshi believes that a significant chunk of ordering could be for land reclamation, breakwater construction (wall construction for protection against the impact of sea waves) and building of jetty. The size of the potential single order can be gauged from the recent award of order of 1,648 crore for land reclamation and shore protection to ITD Cementation India. Afcons prospects of winning orders is bright given it is the tenth largest international marine and port facilities contractor in the world. Also, it has successfully executed breakwater construction at Chhara Port in Gujarat. In terms of experience of building a jetty, it has executed Sohar jetty project at one of the deepest ports in Oman. If Afcons wins some orders for Vadhvan Port, it could swell its already healthy order book. The companys order book has already risen from 30,961 crore as of FY24 to 34,152 crore at September-end, translating into book to bill ratio of 2.7x. The management had highlighted in the September quarter (Q2FY25) earnings call that they are not comfortable with a very high book-to-bill ratio of above 4x as it creates execution challenges. At the same time, if the ratio slips below 2x, it creates order booking pressure. Hence, the management is comfortable with the ratio being between 2.5x to 3.5x. In the half year ended September (H1FY25), revenue (excluding other income that management considers as part of operating income) fell 6% year-on-year. This was attributed mainly to the soft order booking in the previous two years emanating from bank guarantee constraints and slower execution owing to the general elections and an extended spell of heavy rains. However, the Ebitda margin improved 164 basis points year-on-year to 11.4%. The margin is much higher than that of Larsen & Toubro Ltds (L&T) project and manufacturing division's 7.6% in H1FY25, guiding to clock 8%-8.25% margin for FY25. To be sure, a soft H1 would make Afcons FY25 look dull, but the company has guided for 20%-25% revenue growth for FY26 as the constraints of non-fund limits have been sorted out and order booking momentum is back on track. Afcons stock is currently quoting at 28x of FY26 Bloomberg consensus estimates. This is in line with the 26x-28x price-to-earnings multiple accorded to L&Ts projects & manufacturing business by brokers such as Motilal Oswal and Prabhudas Lilladher. Considering the execution risks involved, which has led to delays in completion of marine projects in the past, a large near-term upside may be capped. Read more: A sombre December manufacturing PMI curbs enthusiasm The Indian government recently imposed a minimum import price (MIP) of 20,108 per tonne on soda ash until 30 June 2025. This decision, communicated by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), aims to curb the inflow of lower-cost imports and protect the local manufacturing sector. Soda ash is the secret sauce for making detergents, glass, and chemicals. In this article, we will look at five stocks set to gain from the governments new soda ash price policy. #1 Tata Chemicals Tata Chemicals is among the world's largest and most geographically diversified soda ash companies. It is one of the largest producers of synthetic soda ash in the world, accounting for as much as 35% of the total production in India. The Tata Group company produces four categories of this vital alkali: light soda ash, dense soda ash, medium dense soda ash and granular soda ash. Over the years, the manufacturing capacity of its soda ash plant has increased from 40 tonnes per day to the current level of 2,500 tonnes per day. It has manufacturing facilities in India, the UK, the US and Kenya. It has a global capacity of around 5.5 million tonnes of soda ash per annum, of which 60% is from natural deposits at Wyoming, US, and Lake Magadi, Kenya. Given its strong foothold in the market, Tata Chemicals stands to gain significantly from the Indian governments decision to impose a MIP on soda ash. The move will bolster domestic demand for locally produced soda ash, providing Tata Chemicals with an opportunity to strengthen its market position. For the September 2024 quarter, the company reported a flat revenue of 3,990 crore. Meanwhile, the net profit for the quarter tumbled to 190 crore from 430 crore a year back. View Full Image ... Over the five years, its revenue has grown at a CAGR of 8.3%. The returns have been strong, with the RoE and RoCE averaging over 6.6% and 8.3%, respectively. Recently, Tata Chemicals' wholly-owned subsidiary Tata Chemicals Europe announced its plan to invest 660 crore to build a 180,000 tonnes per annum pharmaceutical grade sodium bicarbonate plant in Northwich in the UK. This new plant will triple TCEL's production capacity of pharmaceutical-grade sodium bicarbonate in the UK. The construction of the plant is expected to commence in 2025, with the first production likely to begin in 2027. #2 GHCL GHCL Ltd is a leading producer of soda ash in India and is one of the country's largest manufacturers of soda ash at a single location. GHCLs soda ash manufacturing facility located at Sutrapada, Gujarat, is one of Indias leading producers of soda ash (anhydrous sodium carbonate) and has an annual production capacity of 1.2 million tonnes per annum. It contributes to almost 25% to the countrys annual domestic demand. It has a clear competitive advantage due to its captive raw material sources. Its lignite mines located at Khadsaliya in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat supply the raw material needed for the production of soda ash. With the Indian government imposing an MIP on soda ash to curb cheaper imports, GHCL is well-positioned to benefit. For the September 2024 quarter, GHCL's revenue saw a decline of 1.6% to 792.8 crore mainly on account of lower realisations. Meanwhile, the net profit increased 8.4% to 154.8 crore. View Full Image ... From FY20 to FY24, the company achieved a CAGR growth of 0.6% in sales, while its net profit saw a growth by 17.8%. GHCL on 13 December 2024 received environmental clearance for its greenfield soda ash manufacturing plant in Mandvi taluka, Kutch. The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) granted the approval. As part of its MoU with the state govt in the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2017, GHCL had committed an investment of 3,500 croreto set up a greenfield soda ash manufacturing complex with 11 lakh tonne per annum of soda ash capacity, with 5.5 lakh tonnes each in the first and second phases. The upcoming greenfield project will almost double its production capacities. #3 DCW DCW Ltd is a chemical company that manufactures and sells soda ash and is known for its innovation and diverse product portfolio. The company specialises in producing light and dense soda ash, which is used in industries such as detergents, glass, and chemicals. Over the years, DCW has established a strong presence in the soda ash market by focusing on operational efficiency and sustainable practices. DCW operates a well-integrated production facility in Gujarat. With the Indian government imposing an MIP on soda ash, DCW Ltd is well-positioned to benefit from the move.DCW can leverage its existing infrastructure and market reach to increase its share in the growing soda ash industry. For the September 2024 quarter, DCW's revenue surged 18% to 490 crore. Its net loss narrowed to 1.25 crore from 270 crore. View Full Image ... From FY20 to FY24, the company achieved a CAGR growth of 6.7% in sales, while the company turned profitable over the years. The returns have been strong, with the RoE and RoCE averaging over 6.9% and 14.7%, respectively. Going forward, DCW plans to expand its chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) production capacity. The company plans to increase its production capacity by 30,000 metric tonnes (mt), taking the total capacity from 20,000 mt to 50,000 mt. This phased expansion is set to be completed by FY26, with 20,000 mt expected to come online in the second half of Q2 FY26 and an additional 10,000 mt by the end of FY26. #4 Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Gujarat Alkalies is a state-owned chemical manufacturing company that produces soda ash and other chemicals. Its also one of the countrys largest caustic soda manufacturers, commanding over 20% of the domestic market. The company operates across four expansive complexes in Vadodara and Dahej, offering an extensive product portfolio of over 35 diverse products. Although Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Ltd (GACL) primarily operates in the caustic soda segment, the imposition of a MIP on soda ash could indirectly benefit the company. Industries such as glass and detergents, which rely heavily on soda ash, also utilise caustic soda in their production processes. An increase in soda ash demand, driven by the governments protective measures, could positively impact caustic soda demand, benefiting GACL. For the September 2024 quarter, the company reported a 2% YoY rise in revenue to 990 crore, up from 970 crore a year back. Meanwhile, net profit grew 1% to 18 crore. View Full Image ... From FY20 to FY24, the company achieved a CAGR growth of 0.6% in sales, while its net profit saw a fall. This growth has led to a strong RoCE and RoE, averaging 5.3% and 6.9% over the last five years. Going forward, the company plans to increase its revenue. #5 Chemfab Alkalis The company offers products, including caustic soda lye, liquid chlorine, hydrogen gas, hydrochloric acid, sodium hypochlorite, bleach liquor, barium sulphate, hydrogen, sodium chlorate, and salt. Established in 1985, the company holds numerous patents and global recognition for its technological advancements. While the company does not directly manufacture soda ash, the recent imposition of an MIP on soda ash could still create indirect benefits. Soda ash and caustic soda are often utilised together in various industries, including glass, detergents, and chemicals. For the September 2024 quarter, the company reported a 2.9% YoY rise in revenue to 81.9 crore. Its net loss reduced to 53 lakh from 4.3 crore. View Full Image ... From FY20 to FY24, the company achieved a CAGR growth of 11.1% in sales, while its net profit saw a growth of 9.5%. This growth led to a RoCE and RoE averaging 8.7% and 12.1% over the last five years. Going forward, it plans to increase the production capacity of its PVCO pipes plant in Sri City from two to four lines in FY25. The company also plans to add three more lines in FY26, increasing the capacity to seven lines by 2025-26. Conclusion According to IMARC Group, the soda ash industry is expected to reach 5.1 million tonnes by 2032, growing at a steady 1.4% CAGR from 2024 to 2032. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand from key sectors such as soap and detergent manufacturing, as well as the glass industry, where soda ash is an essential material. The Indian government's decision to impose an MIP on soda ash supports this growth by protecting domestic producers from cheaper imports, ensuring a more stable market. As a result, companies within this sector are poised to benefit from these favourable market conditions, with increased demand, stronger market positioning, and enhanced profitability. This policy shift, coupled with growing industry demand, creates a promising outlook for domestic soda ash manufacturers. Investors should evaluate these companies fundamentals, corporate governance, and valuations of the stocks as key factors when conducting due diligence before making investment decisions. Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only. It is not a recommendation and should not be treated as such. This article is syndicated from Equitymaster.com Respiratory illnesses saw a surge in China in the week to 22 December, Chinas disease control authority said on 27 December. Known pathogens like influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), SARS-CoV-2, and HMPV are causing the surge. HMPV cases saw an upward trend among those aged 14 and under, especially in northern provinces. Chinese authorities said that respiratory infections tend to surge in winter and spring, and total cases would be smaller than the previous year. China reported a similar surge in November 2023, attributed to lifting of covid-19 restrictions, winter and existing pathogens. What do we know about HMPV? HMPV is in the Pneumoviridae family along with RSV. It can cause upper and lower respiratory disease. Children under the age of 14, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable. Symptoms include cough, fever, blocked nose and shortness of breath and may progress to bronchitis or pneumonia. While it belongs to a different viral family than SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind covid-19, the two share similarities. The virus spreads similar to covid-19, through coughing or sneezing secretions or close personal contact with an infected person and contaminated surfaces. Also read: China faces Covid-like virus outbreak: Should India be worried about HMPV? Heres what experts say What exactly is causing concern? A social media video doing the rounds in India, shows a purportedly overcrowded Chinese hospital with people in masks, sparking concern. Unlike covid-19, there is no specific antiviral therapy to treat it, leading to further fears of an outbreak. However, the virus was discovered in 2001, and has been reported seasonally in countries like US and UK along with RSV. What has been the govts response? The health ministry called a joint monitoring group meeting with experts from the World Health Organisation (WHO), and medical agencies on Saturday. It said later there has been no unusual surge in respiratory illnesses in the last few weeks. HMPV is already in circulation in India and globally, it said. As a precautionary measure, testing for HMPV will be enhanced, and the virus trends will be monitored this year, the ministry said. It has also requested WHO to share timely updates regarding the situation in China. What about the rest of the world? The WHO has not said anything about the virus or the China situation. The Indonesian health ministry on Saturday said no cases of HMPV have been reported in the country, but urged the public to take preventive measures, such as wearing masks. Unlike mainland China, cases in Hong Kong have not risen, according to the Hong Kong Free Press. A national flu and covid-19 surveillance report by the UK on 3 January notes that HMPV cases have increased slightly to 4.5% during 23-29 December. Also read: After China, HMPV cases now rise in Malaysia; public asked to remain vigilant Let us look at some events that made headlines this New Years day. In the US city of New Orleans, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a former US army personnel, rammed his car into a group of revellers, killing 15 people and injuring dozens. The police gunned him down when he tried to open fire at the crowd. Jabbar had a criminal past, but escaped scrutiny. Innocent US civilians paid the price for the laxity on the part of American intelligence agencies. For the US, tragedy didnt end here. Within hours, a truck exploded in front of a Las Vegas hotel, where president-elect Donald Trump had been staying. A passer-by was killed in the explosion. Interestingly, the truck involved in the explosion was a Tesla, manufactured by Trumps close associate Elon Musk. The third incident was a shootout at a night club in Queensborough, New York, which left 11 people injured. Both incidents are being investigated. Also read | A dirty game for votes, in the name of Dr Ambedkar The US police hadnt declared the last two incidents as terrorist acts till press time, but they have once again brought to light the growing unease in American society. Meanwhile, two other incidents that occurred in other parts of the world threaten to have long-term adverse consequences: The first was an Israeli air raid on Gaza that killed 12 people, and the second was Ukraines seizure of a gas pipeline that cut supply from Russia to the rest of Europe. What do these headlines suggest? Trumps uneasy crown A crown of thorns awaits Donald Trump in his second innings at the Oval Office. He needs to contend with international and domestic challenges. New Orleans, New York, and Las Vegas have again shown that US invincibility is a veneer. It faces threats from within. In this scenario, how can Trump satisfactorily resolve Israel-Hamas, and Russia-Ukraine conflicts? The Russia-Ukraine conflict, nearing its third year, is raising doubts about Russian military might and superiority. The past three years have eroded the strongman image Vladimir Putin had assiduously built over the years. History has shown that an autocrat on the decline tries every trick in the trade to destroy others. The gas pipeline incident raises concerns about the likelihood of a rash decision by Putin. Also read | Fundamentalism portends to drag Bangladesh down Does it mean the top priority for 2025 is to stop the wars? How wars have bled humanity is clear from the data the human rights department of the United Nations has released. UN data from 2024 till 21 October shows 11,973 citizens, including 622 children, were killed in the Russia-Ukraine war. The Palestinian health ministry claims 45,000 people, including 17,000 children, have died in the past 14 months in the Israel-Hamas war. Now lets look at the most important issue facing the human raceclimate change. The year 2024 was the warmest in recorded human history. Since the Doha round failed, speculation is rife that challenges for a consensus on climate change actions will intensify in the years ahead. But Trumps win could weaken the effort to tackle this challenge. Another issue that has piqued our interest and attention is artificial Intelligence (AI). Debates are raging globally about its strengths and pitfalls. Pertinent questions Yuval Noah Harari, a professor at Jerusalems Hebrew University and historian of world renown, raises some pertinent questions on the issue. He insists that AI can lie, too. Professor Harari gave an example that when Open AI launched ChatGPT4 they asked it to solve a Captcha to test its efficacy. ChatGPT4 couldnt crack the Captcha. It was later given access to a web page called taskrabbit. ChatGPT4 outsourced the task of cracking the Captcha telling the service provider that it was blind. The engineers who created the algorithms were stunned. They couldnt fathom how AI learned to tell lies. This is why Harari and other intellectuals are questioning the role of AI. They insist that AI will be lethal as this tool can think and make decisions. Also read | Separatist sparks in Punjab must be promptly doused Theres no doubt that people with malicious intentions will misuse AI. On 21 January 2024, AI was used to clone the voice of the US president Joe Biden and employed to make thousands of automated calls to voters in New Hampshire. US authorities imposed a fine of $1 million on Lingo Telecom, the company that undertook this operation. India, too, has had actor Rashmika Mandanas case. So, has science created a Frankensteins monster for the human race? And will 2025 be able to create a consensus on the three challenges threatening humanitywars, climate change, and AI? Shashi Shekhar is editor-in-chief, Hindustan. Views are personal. The latter half of December witnessed a flurry of groundbreaking announcements despite the holiday season, highlighting a Generative AI industry that cannot afford a pause, given the rapid developments and high costs for those who fall behind. Google raised the bar with Gemini 2.0: Googles launch of Gemini 2.0 is a full-fledged base model upgrade from the 1.5 series. Such upgrades, even in half-step increments, represent substantial architectural advancements. Its crucial to acknowledge Googles dominant position in the AI landscape. Its models consistently rank at the top of most Western performance benchmarks. Gemini 2.0 FlashYour phones 2025 AI brain: It was more than a base model change with Gemini 2.0 Flash, a specialized model built for speed and efficiency. Imagine this: your phone integrates AI into everything you do. Flash makes this possible. Need to identify a landmark in a photo quickly? Done. Want real-time translation during a conversation with someone speaking a different language? No problem. Flashs speed and multimodal capabilities mean AI can understand any text, image or audio clip, turning our phones into knowledgeable assistants. Also read: Companies expected to increase Gen AI investments by half this year Instant copiabilityThe AI arms race heated up: A day after Gemini Flash, OpenAI showcased almost identical capabilities. Its model can process a live camera, turning your phone into an AI-powered eye. The simultaneous announcements of similar features might be accidental, but it underscores the intensity of AI competition and the speed of this technologys evolution. Google WhiskThe point-and-shoot revolution reached image editing: Googles Whisk, a preliminary lab product, showcases the future of image editing. It allows users to edit images using other images as prompts, essentially remixing visuals innovatively. While AI tools wont replace expert tools, theyre akin to the arrival of point-and-shoot cameras in the early 2000s, democratizing features previously exclusive to experts. AI rapidly changes how we interact with digital content, posing risks for all established players and processes. Quantum leapsProgress is exciting but patience is key: December saw a flurry of quantum-related announcements, from Googles demonstration of time crystals to IBMs roadmap for the release of its largest quantum computer in 2025. We also witnessed quantum energy teleportation. While these advancements are significant, their practical applications are far away. Patience will be key, as their true impact may unfold over decades, not months. Collaborative AIOpenAIs Projects and Googles Canvas have reimagined teamwork: OpenAI and Google both launched platforms for collaborative AI projects. OpenAIs Projects allows users to create shared workspaces. Googles Canvas enables AI-powered collaborative brainstorming. They signal a shift towards AI-augmented teamwork. Imagine brainstorming sessions with AI generating ideas or writing projects and providing real-time feedback. This can revolutionize software development, design and research. O3: The code whispererAI transformed programming again: Built on chain of thought reasoning, O3 can break down complex coding into logical steps, enabling it to generate entire code blocks from simple prompts, debug intricate code-bases and even optimize algorithms for better performance. O3 can also re-factor existing code for clarity and scalability. This has profound implications for software development, empowering junior developers and freeing up senior programmers to focus on higher-level design. O3 is redefining the limits of artificial general intelligence (AGI): It made waves by exceeding human performance on the abstraction and reasoning corpus (ARC) benchmark for AGI. While not true AGI, it demonstrates AIs remarkable progress in tackling complex tasks once considered exclusive to humans. As models like O3 push boundaries, we can expect them to tackle increasingly complex challenges that may appear unsurmountable now. While AGI may remain a distant goal, AI models keep knocking down the challenges we pose. Robotics LLMsThe dawn of truly intelligent robots: A team of researchers unveiled language models for robots. These allow robots to respond to complex instructions in natural language. Imagine telling a robot to tidy up the living room" and it knows exactly what needs to be done. Companies like Nvidia and OpenAI, with their ongoing research, are likely to incorporate LLMs into robotics development. Usage costsA seismic shift in the AI landscape: In 2024, we saw AI usage costs tank by over 90%. An expert showed that todays cost of processing tens of thousands of photos is already below $2. A Chinese developer unveiled a further game-changer: DeepSeek-V3 rivals the performance of leading LLMs, but its training cost just $6 million. As a result, it can offer token or usage pricing at less than 10% of an already cheap rate. This dramatic cost reduction is a powerful catalyst for mass adoption of GenAI. The AI tsunami: The AI wave has gained an intensity rarely seen. Its a multifront revolution, with progress in every direction. On what it can achieve, the message is clear: buckle up, because the AI wave is turning into a tsunami. The author is a Singapore-based innovation investor for LC GenInnov Fund. Its clear that US President-elect Donald Trump believes he has a mandate to enact the largest deportation in US history. What happens next could forever alter what it means to be an American. Immigration under President Joe Biden surged to levels unmatched in more than a centuryan estimated net increase of 8 million migrants during his four years in office, with a majority crossing illegally, according to a Goldman Sachs report. Biden was determined to reverse the harsh Trump 1.0 policies that limited both kinds of immigration. But Biden never conveyed it. There was no Biden doctrine to help people understand why he believed more immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers could prove a net benefit. Finally, after Trump killed a bipartisan immigration reform bill, Biden re-imposed tighter limits on the southern border, but it was too late to save the election for Democrats. Now the US finds itself with the highest foreign-born population in its historyover 15 and a border thats more porous than secure. And the electorate has proven susceptible to Trumps rhetoric. As Trump prepares to deliver on his top priority, expect the actions that follow to be swift and ugly. Watch out for five things: The Alien Enemies Act of 1798: Trump and his acolytes have described migrants as invaders" and border crossings as an invasion." He has said he will use this law to remove all known or suspected gang members, drug dealers or cartel members from the United States." The law so far has been used only in wartime, and Trumps invocation would surely draw a legal challenge. But the Brennan Center for Justice has warned that the Acts language is so broad that a president might be able to wield the authority in peacetime as an end run around the requirements of criminal and immigration law." Trump also has pledged to use the military and local law enforcement if necessary. There are prohibitions against that as well, but its anyones guess if theyll be upheld. Workplace raids: Tom Homan, Trumps nominee for border czar, has pledged to bring back workplace raids. Once a staple under earlier administrations, they were stopped by Biden. Raids were disruptive to employers and sparked terror in immigrant communities, but Homan has said the message is one that needs to be sent. He has said he will start in Chicago. If your Chicago mayor doesnt want to help, he can step aside. But if he impedes us, if he knowingly harbours an illegal alien, I will prosecute him," he said. Birthright citizenship: Trump has said that he intends to upend one of the most fundamental ideas about the US: that no matter where in the world your parents come from, if you are born here, you are an American. It is a principle specifically enshrined in the 14th Amendment. No president can override the Constitution with an executive order. But Trump could create havoc in the meantime by, as he has said he would, ordering the government to stop issuing Social Security numbers and passports to offspring of parents who cannot prove their legal status. Refugee programmes: Biden reduced illegal border crossings partly by expanding programmes that allow legal ones. Think of his humanitarian parole policy. But the outgoing president has said he will not renew that authorization for the more than half-million immigrants who came from Venezuela, Haiti, Cuba and Nicaragua during his term. Trump has called Bidens version an outrageous abuse of parole" and wants to end it. He may also seek to end or restrict Temporary Protected Status, which shields more than 800,000 immigrants from specific countries against deportation. Dreamers: The lone carrot Trump has held out to Democrats is possible action to protect Dreamersthose brought to this country illegally as children, many of whom have grown old waiting for more than temporary protection in the only homeland theyve ever known. How genuine is that offer? Its up to Trump, whose record is mixed. He also held out a similar promise in his first term, only to go back on it. Hardliners in Congress have already expressed reservations about further protections for dreamers, whose status rests on an Obama 2012 executive order called Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA. The order provided a temporary shield from deportation and work permits. If Trump persists, expect him to extract maximum leverage from any deal. It should be clear even to big doubters that Trump intends to follow through on what is now a decade-old pledge to crack down on immigration. But this time, he has a team in place with the experience and knowledge to follow through, however brutal it turns out, and also a conservative Supreme Court. That could make all the difference. Bloomberg Also read: How Indian students can get work visas after studying abroad WASHINGTONThe Biden administration plans to announce Monday it is easing restrictions on humanitarian aid for Syria, a move to speed delivery of basic supplies without lifting sanctions that restrict other assistance to the new government in Damascus. The decision underscores the White Houses wariness about removing the broad sanctions on Syria until the direction taken by its new leaders, led by a group the U.S. labels a terror organization, becomes clearer. The limited step approved by the administration over the weekend authorizes the Treasury Department to issue waivers to aid groups and companies providing essential services, such as water, electricity and other humanitarian supplies, officials said. Available initially for six months, the waiver would free aid suppliers from having to seek case-by-case authorization but it comes with conditions to ensure Syria doesnt misuse the supplies, the officials said. The U.S. has already dropped a $10 million bounty on Abu Mohammed al-Jawlani, the Islamist leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS, the Sunni Islamist group that began as an offshoot of al Qaeda and led the assault that toppled the Assad regime. The U.S. is withholding a decision on lifting crippling sanctions imposed during Syrias brutal 13-year civil war, seeking assurances Damascus wont renege on promises to protect the rights of women and the countrys many religious and ethnic minorities. Make no mistake, some of the rebel groups that took down Assad have their own grim record of terrorism and human right abuses," President Biden said in December after Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad fled the country. They are saying the right things now, but as they take on greater responsibility, we will assess not just their words, but their actions." The Jawlani-led government is seeking recognition from world powers to legitimize his rule. The group publicly cut ties with al Qaeda years ago and has sought to cast itself as more moderate. But with only weeks left of the Biden administration, decisions about sanctions and whether to recognize the rebel-led government likely will be left to President-elect Donald Trump. Midlevel U.S. officials have met in Damascus with HTS leaders, and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock were in Damascus Friday. After meeting with Jawlani, Baerbock said women and Kurds must be involved in the countrys transition, further warning that European funds shouldnt be used for new Islamist structures." The German diplomat also signaled that it was too early for European nations to lift sanctions on Syria, but said that the past few weeks have shown how much hope there is here in Syria that the future will be one of freedom." The U.S. and its allies in Europe and the Middle East agree that Syria desperately needs more aid, including reconstruction funds to rebuild the countrys shattered infrastructure. The European Union is also looking at steps it could take to ease the flow of assistance, currently hampered by sanctions, into the country. But HTSs designation as a terror group bars it from receiving reconstruction funds and imposes tight controls on the types of assistance that are allowed into Syria. During Syrias brutal civil war, Assads government was able to seize large amounts of humanitarian assistance, according to David Adesnik, a Syria expert at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a Washington foreign policy organization. This is the moment when we need to consider major fixes to a very broken aid program that is been broken for a decade," he said. Hopefully this government isnt interested in milking aid the way Assad did." Laurence Norman contributed to this article. Write to Alexander Ward at alex.ward@wsj.com Mar. 6, 2025, 12:30pm - UPDATE: A date has been set for the potential reopening of the Incline Railway after a December wildfire on Lookout Mountain forced it to close. According to the Incline Railway's website, the target reopening date will be June 2, 2025 if repairs continue without any delays or complications at the 129-year-old historic site. National Park Service (NPS) investigators also determined the cause of the fire was due to a series of natural events and found no signs of human involvement around the area where the blaze was started. NPS investigators said fire started with large rocks or boulders thawing on Lookout Mountain, which caused a rockslide with large amounts of friction. The rocks hit several trees and other boulders along the way, creating extreme heat and sparks that led to a 10-acre wildfire. The rocks also pushed over a large tree which hit a power line near the Hardy Trail, causing more sparks. Multiple homes and businesses in the surrounding area were evacuated due to the fire. While businesses reopened and residents returned home, the Incline was forced to close due to the "significant damage" done by the fire. Stay with Local 3 News for continuing coverage of this story. Jan. 6, 2025, 3:15pm - PREVIOUS STORY: CARTA says they are still working to get the Incline Railway up and running after the Lookout Mountain wildfire in early December. "Right now, the team is cutting up the damaged cable into lengths that are easier to recycle. This is difficult and challenging work," explained CARTA. National Parks Service investigators believe the 10-acre wildfire was caused by the thawing of large rocks up the mountain, causing a rockslide with large amounts of friction that sparked. Several businesses in St. Elmo were impacted, as well as several homes evacuated while crews worked to get the fire under control. From Lookout Mtn. to downtown grocery: CFD crews exhausted by recent fire calls CFD Chief Rick Boatwright says the weekend fire on Lookout Mountain and responding to several residential fires has exhausted firefighters. Dec. 11, 2024, 11:45am - PREVIOUS STORY: The National Parks Service (NPS) says investigators have found the likely cause of the wildfire on Lookout Mountain over the weekend. An NPS investigator determined the fire started in the Lookout Mountain Battlefield at around 5:30am on Saturday. The likely cause is believed to be a large rockslide that sent boulders tumbling down from the top of Lookout Mountain towards Ochs Highway. The boulders hit several trees and other stationary boulders along the way, creating extreme heat and sparks. The boulders also pushed over a large tree which hit a power line near the Hardy Trail. Although the incident with the power line could have created sparks, the NPS investigator said the evidence at the scene indicates the rockslide as the probable cause of the fire. No evidence of human activity was found in the area where the wildfire started. The fire is fully contained and 100% controlled, so it is not expected to spread under the current conditions. St. Elmo businesses seeing impact from Incline Railway closing after wildfire Some owners said day-to-day operations look a bit different after a wildfire spread from the incline on Lookout Mountain. The NPS says a final report on the investigation will be done after the fire is out, which is expected to take about two weeks. The Incline Railway is expected to be closed for months to repair damage caused by the fire. The Mountain Beautiful Trail is closed until further notice. Stay with Local 3 News for updates to this developing story. Dec. 9, 2024, 5:30pm - PREVIOUS STORY: Carta officials say the Incline Railway has suffered "significant damage," facing months of repairs from the Lookout Mountain fire on Saturday. While the fire is under control, some sections of the railway still continue to smolder. The severed cable system alone could take months to manufacture a replacement. What happens next in Lookout Mountain fire investigation? Crews are waiting for the fire to be fully controlled, which is different than containment. CARTA explains there are several critical areas of damage: The cable system has been severed and will require months to remanufacture due to its specialized nature. Both the rail system and cross timbers have sustained damage, though the full extent remains unknown. The railway is insured, and the insurance company has been engaged. CARTA has taken the following steps towards restoration as of Dec. 10: Replacement plans are underway with the cable manufacturer for the specialized replacement cable, which was fully replaced in April 2024 Rail manufacturers have been engaged and are standing by. Timber suppliers are on alert to provide necessary materials. Engineers will begin their comprehensive assessment tomorrow and develop a repair plan for the rail and timbers. While there is never a favorable time for disaster to strike, CARTA says their scheduled emergency response training this year proved extremely timely. They completed the following preparations before the Lookout Mountain fire: Day-long rescue exercises with the Chattanooga Fire Department's Special Operations team Coordination with Hamilton County Emergency Management and local first responders Practice of complex extraction scenarios from elevated trestles using specialized equipment Chattanooga Fire was at the Incline the prior Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday "The swift and professional response from all emergency personnel, combined with the preparedness of our Incline Railway team, prevented what could have been a far more devastating situation," said Charles D. Frazier, CARTA CEO. "The joint training exercise that CARTA initiated in April with emergency responders proved invaluable in protecting this historic landmark. While we face significant repairs ahead, I want to assure our community that we will restore this Tennessee treasure for future generations to experience and enjoy. The Incline Railway has been a part of Chattanooga's story for 129 years, and we are committed to ensuring it remains a vital part of our community's future." Dec. 8, 2024, 8:00pm - PREVIOUS STORY: Local 3 is learning more about the damage done to the Incline Railway by the Lookout Mountain fire over the weekend. In a Facebook post, Rock City said the Incline Railway is temporarily closed for repairs. According to CARTA, the site remains an active emergency scene and is under the management of first responders. Although the fire damaged the Incline's cable system and rails, both incline vehicles are secure and undamaged, as well as both the lower station in St. Elmo and upper station on Lookout Mountain. "The Lookout Mountain Incline Railway has been an integral part of Chattanooga's identity since 1895 and holds a special place in Tennessee's heritage. Given the unique engineering and safety requirements of our steep-grade railway, we will need to complete comprehensive structural and technical assessments once emergency responders have completed their work. Only after these thorough evaluations can we develop appropriate restoration plans," says CARTA. Lookout Mountain residents recount close call after weekend wildfire Around 20 homes were evacuated over the weekend because of the fire on Lookout Mountain. CARTA has not said when the Incline will reopen at this time. Tickets for the Incline are valid for one year from the date of purchase. You can email Rock City with any questions. A spokesperson for the National Parks Service (NPS) said the fire is about 10 acres and remains fully contained as crews continue to monitor the flames. The NPS said black smoke, created from the fire reaching the railroad ties on the tracks or rails along the Incline, could be visible for several days. The Mountain Beautiful Trail is closed until further notice. Chief park ranger explains what caused Lookout Mtn. fire The National Parks Service (NPS) believes a tree collapsing on a power line might have caused the Lookout Mountain brush fire. The cold weather could also be blamed. Dec. 8, 2024, 5:00pm - PREVIOUS STORY: The National Park Service (NPS) informed Local 3 that the Lookout Mountain fire has been 100% contained as of 4:00pm on Sunday. Todd Milsaps, Chief Ranger of the Chickamauga and Chattanooga Military Park, says that the team began with water treatment, and moved to foam treatment once the fire was less severe. According to NPS, Grand Smoky Mountain rangers are conducting their final check in which they walk the area's perimeter. A minimal crew will be on site tonight and tomorrow. The exact cause of the fire is undetermined. A Wildfire Arson Investigator is working the case, however Chief Milsaps says that it is unknown whether the fire was human-caused. Chief Milsaps explained there will be another debrief on Monday, December 9. Dec. 8, 2024, 11:00am - PREVIOUS STORY: The National Park Service (NPS) told Local 3 that they are continuing to monitor the fire on Lookout Mountain, specifically along the Incline Railway, this morning. They say the fire has grown to ten acres, and it is 75% contained at this time. Although the fire has grown technically, NPS says they are not currently "battling" the fire. At this time, they are "mopping up" to put out any hot spots that might spark up. The Chattanooga Fire Department says they are assisting Lookout Mountain Fire in having firefighters out in UTVs, riding the trails of Lookout Mountain to monitor the area. Dec. 7, 2024, 6:20pm - PREVIOUS STORY: Chattanooga fire says there is a fire break around the entire impacted area of the Lookout Mountain fire. Crews are working to extinguish the fires at railroad ties on the Incline Railway, which is difficult to reach. Teams are on "fire watch" through the night along the rail. Chattanooga fire says crews first responded to the brush fire at 6:46am and have been fighting the blaze alongside the US Forest Service, Tennessee Forestry, CFD, Lookout Mountain FD, CPD and HCEMS throughout the day. By afternoon when the flames reached the Incline Railway, several businesses and homes were evacuated near the lower incline as a precaution. Around 20 homes on Old Mountain Road and W 40th Street were evacuated as well. By 5:00pm, all evacuations were lifted. CARTA, who owns the Incline Railway, stated the following statement: "The Lookout Mountain Incline Railway is temporarily closed due to an ongoing active fire incident. We are fully cooperating with emergency response teams who are currently managing the situation. The safety of our guests and staff remains our highest priority. We will conduct a thorough assessment once emergency personnel have secured the site and will provide updates regarding service restoration when appropriate." Dec. 7, 2024, 4:50pm - PREVIOUS STORY: The Chattanooga Fire Department says evacuations in St. Elmo have been lifted as crews continue to extinguish the fire on Lookout Mountain. Dec. 7, 2024, 2:30pm - PREVIOUS STORY: Multiple homes and businesses have been evacuated as the Lookout Mountain fire has reached the Incline Railway. Multiple businesses and homes from St. Elmo Avenue to Tennessee Avenue and Old Mountain Road to St. Elmo Avenue. 38th Street to the Incline Railway and everything to the left of the incline area, including Mr. T's Pizza and the 1885 restaurant. Dec. 7, 2024, 2:10pm - PREVIOUS STORY: The Chattanooga Fire Department has turned the fire on Lookout Mountain over to the National Park Service and Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry. CFD says that the fire has now made its way to the Incline Railway's tracks. They are sending additional personnel to help stop the spread of the fire. Residents should expect to see helicopters working to extinguish the fire. Dec. 7, 2024, 11:30am - PREVIOUS STORY: The Chattanooga Fire Department (CFD) and several other agencies are responding to a brush fire on the side of Lookout Mountain. They responded to the fire around 7:00am on Saturday, December 7 from the 700 block of South Scenic Highway after several calls had been made to 911. CFD says that, at this time, there are no injuries and no structural damages. A decision by Longford County Council planners to refuse planning permission for a telecommunication mast in Granard has been upheld by An Bord Pleanala. The local authority refused an application by Towercom Limited, Usher House, Main Street, Dundrum to construct the telecommunications infrastructure consisting of; a 21-metre monopole (22.5 metre overall structure height to top of lightning finials) that would carry antennas and dishes. That application, refused by the local authority, included associated equipment, together with new ground level equipment cabinets, new fencing, temporary construction access and all associated site works. The refused proposal included the removal of an existing telecommunications rooftop support structure and replacement of existing operators equipment. The site of the existing mast is at the Eir Exchange, Barrack Lane, Granard. The council planners refused the application saying: Having considered the proper planning and development of the County of Longford and having regard to the provisions of the Development Plan, it is hereby decided, in pursuance of the above Acts to refuse permission to the applicant in the terms of this application. In October of last year a similar planning application made by Eircom Limited was turned down by An Bord Pleanala. Eircom appealed a refusal by Longford County Council to construct the 20 metre high lattice mast at Barrack Lane in Granard to the State planning oversight body. The communications company failed in their bid to overturn the refusal of planning permission for a telecom mast in a North Longford Town on three grounds. Towercom Limited, one of Ireland's longest established independent wireless infrastructure providers, appealed the local authority decision to An Bord Pleanala. The State planning authority upheld the decision of Longford County Council. Undomiciled Male Arrested for Multiple Grand Larcenies Across Nassau County Crime, Press Releases By Long Island Published: January 06 2025 The Third Squad reports the arrest of Patrick Wall, 25, an undomiciled male, for numerous grand larcenies that occurred throughout Nassau County between September 2023 and January 2025. Wall allegedly contacted elderly victims under the ... The Third Squad reports the arrest of an undomiciled male for numerous Grand Larcenies that occurred throughout Nassau County between September 2023 and January 2025. According to Detectives, numerous elderly victims were contacted by the Defendant Patrick Wall, 25, stating he was a masonry worker and would be willing to perform construction on parts of their homes that needed repair. The victims accepted his offers and over the course of the work the defendant would intentionally create additional damage and inflated the cost of the new repairs. The victims eventually suspected that they were being scammed and notified police. After an extensive investigation, Defendant Patrick Wall was located and placed under arrest without incident. He is charged with Grand Larceny 4 th Degree, two counts of Grand Larceny 3 rd Degree, three counts of Grand Larceny 2 nd Degree, five counts of Conspiracy 5 th Degree, five counts of Scheme to Defraud 1 st Degree, two counts of Criminal Mischief 2 nd Degree and multiple Town of Hempstead violations. He will be arraigned on Sunday, January 5, 2025 at First District Court, 99 Main Street, Hempstead. Detectives request anyone who feels they may have been the victim of the above defendant to contact the Nassau Countys Third Squad Detectives at 516-573- 6354. The Nassau County Police Department urges the community to be on alert and to remind vulnerable family members, friends, and neighbors about potential scams Local News By Chris Boyle Published: January 06 2025 Funding Supports Reliability and Resiliency Enhancements to Major Trade Corridors. Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $101.8 million in state funding is available through the Passenger and Freight Rail Assistance Program. This program funds rail and port projects across the state, boosting New York's trade corridors and its position as a global commerce destination, while enhancing safety. Increased use of rail for the movement of people and goods is also good for the environment as it reduces emissions from the transportation sector and helps to achieve greenhouse gas reduction goals established in New Yorks landmark Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act of 2019. Funding applications will be accepted through April 7, 2025. New York State is committed to investing in our rail network to ensure that the raw materials and products that fuel so much of our economy continue to get where they need to go safely and as efficiently as possible, Governor Hochul said. This funding will help us further modernize our rail infrastructure, allowing our local businesses to get the products they need when they need them. I urge anyone with qualifying projects to apply and help us invest in the future economic well-being of our state. The Passenger and Freight Rail Assistance Program is administered by the New York State Department of Transportation. Winning projects will be selected through a competitive solicitation process and rated based on established criteria that include a benefit cost analysis, adherence to regional economic development plans, safety enhancements, compatibility with other private and public investments, and actions that enhance resilience and reduce climate risk. Previous awards have funded the purchase of low-emission locomotives and other equipment, track improvements and bridge rehabilitations across the state, including a project to rehabilitate fifteen miles of the Voorheesville Running Track in Albany County; the rehabilitation of a rail bridge over the Delaware River and a project to mitigate congestion and increase capacity along the Fremont Industrial track in Queens. New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, Moving freight by rail is good for the economy and good for the environment. It is imperative that we do all we can to ensure that our rail infrastructure in New York State works as efficiently and seamlessly as possible and these funds will help invest in projects that do just that. State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, This investment from Governor Hochul represents our states strong commitment to modernizing and enhancing rail and port infrastructure here in New York. The projects chosen through this program will make an immediate impact on our systems safety, reliability, and efficiency and Im ready for my continued work with the Governor to create the kind of infrastructure system that New Yorkers deserve. Assemblymember William B. Magnarelli said, Investing in Rail and Port infrastructure is evidence of our commitment to safety, addressing state environmental concerns, enhancing trade corridors, and strengthening economic development. Protecting and enhancing our infrastructure allows New York to continue to compete as a global commerce destination. Eligible project activities include track and bridge rehabilitation; yard, terminal and siding construction; elimination of clearance obstructions; wharf, dock and bulkhead construction and reconstruction; dredging; at-grade crossing railroad crossing resurfacing; material handling equipment storage facilities; wayside detectors and other projects that enhance the safe movement of goods, economic competitiveness and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) will be accepting application forms for this funding opportunity through April 7, 2025. Program guidance and application materials may be found on The DOT website. Crime By Chris Boyle Published: January 06 2025 Cody Fisher, 29, was arrested in connection with a crash that left Highway Patrol Officer Brendon Gallagher in critical condition, officials say. Suffolk County Police have arrested a Brentwood man for driving while ability impaired by drugs and reckless driving following a motor vehicle crash that critically injured a police officer on Sunday, January 5. Highway Patrol Officer Brendon Gallagher was conducting a traffic stop on westbound Long Island Expressway, near exit 55, when the operator of a 2021 Ford Mustang sped past the officer. Officer Gallagher, who is a member of the recently created Street Takeover Task Force, activated lights and sirens in an attempt to pull the driver over, when the operator of the Mustang lost control of the vehicle and sideswiped the police vehicle. The patrol unit left the roadway and overturned at approximately 6:10 p.m. The Mustang also went off the road and struck a light post. The operator of the vehicle, Cody Fisher, was apprehended by an off-duty Nassau County Police Officer who was passing at the time of the incident. Gallagher was taken via police helicopter to Stony Brook University Hospital in critical condition. Fisher, 29, of Brentwood, was transported to South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore, for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. He was released and charged with Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs, Assault 2nd Degree, Unlawful Fleeing a Police Officer in a Motor Vehicle 2nd Degree and Reckless Driving. He is being arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip on January 6. If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us We also welcome letters to the editor for publication; you can do that by filling out our letters form and submitting it to the newsroom. Boston police took a 45-year-old man into custody late Sunday night in connection with a fatal incident in Charlestown. David Menezes, of Charlestown, was arrested at 60 Camden St. in Roxbury around 10:41 p.m. Sunday, Boston Police said in a statement. He is expected to be arraigned on a single charge of murder in Boston Municipal Court in Roxbury Monday. Menezes is charged in connection with the death of a 46-year-old man found shot in a Charlestown parking lot Saturday night. At around 10:33 p.m. Saturday, Boston Police officers went to 140 Main St. in Charlestown for a report of a pedestrian struck at that location. Arriving officers found a man lying on the ground in a parking lot. Police determined the man had been shot. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The man was identified as 46-year-old Joseph Donahue, of Charlestown. Boston police are actively reviewing the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident. Anyone with information is urged to contact police at 617-343-4470. Boston police identified a man found with gunshot wounds in a Charlestown parking lot on Saturday night as 46-year-old Joseph Donahue, a resident of the Boston neighborhood. At around 10:33 p.m. Saturday, Boston Police officers went to 140 Main St. in Charlestown for a report of a pedestrian hit at that location. Arriving officers found a man, later identified as Donahue, lying on the ground in a parking lot. Police determined the man had been shot. He was pronounced dead at the scene. On Sunday, police arrested 45-year-old David Menezes, of Charlestown, in connection with Donahues death. Menezes was arrested at 60 Camden St. in Roxbury around 10:41 p.m. Sunday, Boston Police said in a statement. He is expected to be arraigned on a single charge of murder in Boston Municipal Court in Roxbury Monday. Boston police are actively reviewing the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident. Anyone with information is urged to contact police at 617-343-4470. Editors note: This story was updated at 6:16 p.m. Monday, Jan. 6, 2025 to correct the Department of Children and Families' position on the release of certain records in the Harmony Montgomery case. Harmony Montgomerys killer her father is behind bars, but questions linger over why a Massachusetts judge placed the then-4-year-old in his custody, whose prior convictions included shootings and attacks on women. A journalist in New England is trying to get those answers. The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court on Monday heard arguments on whether the press should be allowed to access a transcript or recording of a February 2019 hearing where a judge placed Harmony Montgomery into the custody of her father. The case stems from a request by journalist Bill Lichtenstein, of LC Media, for access to an audio recording of the hearing, which was held in Essex Juvenile Court, where proceedings are shielded from the public. Lichtenstein sought access to a recording of the hearing on the grounds that the public interest in the case was so great that it superseded the privacy protections in place in the court. But a lower court judge denied his motion, prompting an appeal from Lichtenstein. The Supreme Judicial Court, the states highest court, took up Lichtensteins appeal sua sponte, or of its own accord. Typically, the case would have been first heard by the states Appeals Court. Filings in the case are impounded and no names were used during the hearing, but MassLive confirmed the records are related to Harmony Montgomerys case. Justices heard first from Jennifer Lamanna, an attorney representing LC Media, who argued public institutions in this case, the Department of Children and Families should not be able to hide behind the privacy rights granted to individuals. While the Office of the Child Advocate produced a report of the events of the hearing that placed 5-year-old Harmony in the custody of her father, Adam Montgomery, a convicted felon with a violent history, Lamanna argued it was just an incomplete summary of the events. Adam Montgomery was convicted last year of killing his daughter in 2019, just months after he was awarded custody of her by a Massachusetts judge. He was sentenced to 45 years to life for her murder last year. The privacy laws governing Juvenile Court are in place to protect children and families from the stigma of parents with substance abuse issues [and] parents who have committed appalling acts. But in this case, where Adam Montgomery does not object to the release and where Harmonys mother, Crystal Sorey, has spoken openly about her substance abuse issues, the law cannot be extended to a state agency, Lamanna argued. I would certainly hesitate to suggest a government employee who is being accused of not performing their duty appropriately has a right to privacy, she said. This specific case, nobody knows ... exactly what happened that resulted in the court granting custody. The Department of Children and Families took custody of Harmony Montgomery in August 2014, a few months after she was born due to her mothers substance abuse issues, MassLive previously reported. Adam Montgomery was incarcerated at the time of her birth. A judge placed Harmony Montgomery in the custody of her father in February 2019 after years of supervised visits but over the objections of an attorney representing the Department of Children and Families. The 5-year-old died 10 months later. During the hearing, Associate Justice Scott L. Kafker appeared sympathetic to the idea that the records should be released, saying the most important consideration is figuring out what went terribly wrong here. He later asked if DCF should have any right to privacy in the case. Theres been a terrible error that resulted in the death of a child and the public has a right to understand that, he said, calling granting custody of Harmony to Adam Montgomery the governments big mistake. Associate Justice Serge Georges Jr. suggested the court could just send the case back to the lower court judge to remedy the judicial errors she argued were made. If the SJC did so, it could order the lower court judge to review the audio of the recording before making another ruling or to conduct a different balancing of the right to privacy against the publics right to know. Kristin Stone Braithwaite, an attorney for the Department of Children and Families, argued the court could not order the release of records from the February hearing in question because doing so would violate the laws governing Juvenile Court. Kafker asked if the Montgomery case specifically might require more disclosure from the Department of Children and Families because the public might not trust a government agency to conduct its duties properly unless they could review all the facts. But Braithwaite argued it didnt rise to the level. Instead, she offered that juvenile court records could be released to a person who may need them to aid their defense in a criminal case. But justices indicated they believed the case met the standard of release. Associate Justice Delila Argaez Wendlandt told Braithwaite, This is one of those extreme cases where maybe the veil of privacy should be pierced. I cant imagine a case that calls for piercing that more than this one, she added. Braithwaite argued that despite her death, Harmony still had a right to privacy, as does her mother, both of which would necessitate keeping the records sealed. If there were something in the hearing that shed light on Harmonys whereabouts during the period she was considered missing, it could necessitate being released, she argued. But without that, the right to privacy should win out, she said. As the law stands right now, the privacy interests are the most compelling interests in this case, Braithwaite said. Justices also heard from Andrew Hoffman, an attorney representing Sorey, who is also opposing the release of the records to LC Media. Hoffmans argument, much like Braithwaites, focused on the privacy rights a person is granted in Juvenile Court. Sorey should not be required to divulge what private information she would like to keep out of public view in order to keep the records from being released, he argued. But justices indicated they believed giving Sorey an opportunity to review a transcript of the hearing and redact private information prior to its release would be an appropriate remedy to her privacy concerns. She wasnt seeking custody, Kafker noted, adding Soreys problems seem to be peripheral to the issues being dealt with by the judge: whether to give the child to the father or leave her in the care of DCF. I just dont see why they cant deal with your interest by redacting a transcript, Kafker added. It is not clear when justices will reach a ruling in the case, as they often take months to publish decisions. A renowned kidney transplant surgeon is being forced to forfeit nearly $1 million after being involved in a steroid sale scheme. Zhendi Wang, 44, of Wuhan, China, opened bank accounts in Massachusetts where he received $1.2 million from a family member from 2020-2023. The money, officials said, was from sales from the family members online steroids business. Wang, a renowned kidney transplant surgeon at Wuhan Union Hospital, then repaid equivalent amounts to his family member in Chinese currency. But, officials said, Wang lacked the appropriate license to operate a money transmitting business. In July, officials seized $825,314 from various bank accounts in Wangs name, including $636,438 from a Cetera Investment Services Account, records show. That money is now being forfeited to the government unless a person, other than Wang, petitions to claim them. In October, Wang pleaded guilty to operating an unlicensed money transmitting business. And in December, he was sentenced by District Court Judge Allison D. Burroughs to 20 months in prison with one year of supervised release. The three co-defendants in a related money laundering conspiracy remain at large. The lead investigator in the high-profile Karen Read murder case will face a state police trial board later this month, according to a new court filing. Trooper Michael Proctor, suspended without pay following damaging testimony during Reads trial, is set to appear on Jan. 15 before a Massachusetts State Police trial board for allegations of misconduct during his duties as a trooper, according to a filing by Norfolk County District Attorney Michael Morrisseys Office. Upon a finding that there are reasonable grounds for discipline, the Colonel for the Massachusetts State Police may immediately impose permanent discipline, states the filing dated Jan. 3. The filing, also signed by specially appointed prosecutor Hank Brennan, states that Proctor testified in June and was subject to cross-examination related to alleged conflicts of interest, communications with non-involved civilian persons regarding the Read case, and statement regarding the defendant from which defense counsel argued a bias could be formed. The filing also states that prosecutors will share reports and records related to Proctors discipline with Reads defense team at the end of the state polices internal affairs investigation. State police suspended Proctor without pay after a duty status hearing a week after the trial ended with a hung jury on July 1. Hours after Reads mistrial, state police announced he was relieved of duty and transferred out of the detective unit assigned to the Norfolk County District Attorneys Office. During his testimony in the Read trial, Proctor admitted to sending text messages in which he described Read in a degrading manner, including telling his sister, Hopefully she kills herself, a reference to Read and calling her a whack job. A handful of criminal cases, including of a Cohasset man charged with his wife Ana Walshes killing and dismembering of her body, could be affected by the fallout over Proctors discipline, experts previously told MassLive. Read, 44, of Mansfield, was charged with the murder of her Boston police officer boyfriend, John OKeefe, 46. She pleaded not guilty and the prosecution said shortly after the mistrial they intend to retry Read. A trial is scheduled to take place in April. The Norfolk district attorneys office placed Proctor on the so-called Brady list, which is for law enforcement officials who are under suspension or investigation and whose credibility is subject to questioning. Federal prosecutors are investigating a Democratic state lawmaker from Cape Cod over alleged potential criminal activity involving him and his reelection campaign. The brief statement released by Barnstable Police adds to the potential legal woes of state Rep. Christopher Flanagan, D-1st Barnstable, who already was under investigation for felony larceny charges. The statement does not include any details, saying only that local police received a report in October involving Flanagan and the Chris Flanagan for State Representative for the 1st Barnstable District campaign. The matter was referred to the U.S. Attorneys Office in Boston in December, according to the statement. Sign up right here for MassLives new politics newsletter, Bay State Briefing Your weekly round-up of Massachusetts political news and the people and policies driving those stories. for MassLives new politics newsletter, Bay State Briefing Your weekly round-up of Massachusetts political news and the people and policies driving those stories. Flanagan won reelection to his House seat in November, besting Republican Gerald OConnell 56%-43%. He was sworn in, along with his colleagues, when the Legislature began its new session last week, The Boston Globe reported. In November, police in Yarmouth said Flanagan was under investigation for felony larceny. The details of that investigation largely were shielded from public view in a heavily redacted police report. The first-term lawmaker is being investigated for felony larceny of more than $1,200, according to police. In that police report, a Yarmouth officer writes that they met with an unidentified person on Sept. 20 for a conversation about a savings account to which Flanagan had access, MassLive previously reported. Based on the conversation regarding potential fraudulent use of a business account, [redacted] placed Flanagan on administrative leave pending an internal investigation, the officer wrote. Flanagan, of Dennis, was penalized earlier this year for misleading state regulators about payment for a campaign mailer, The Boston Herald reported. He resigned from a second job at the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Cape Cod in May, the newspaper further reported. In a November statement, a spokesperson for House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano, D-3rd Norfolk, said the House leader was aware of the investigation into Flanagan, but we have no basis to conclude that it is in any way related to his role as a [m]ember of the House of Representatives. Given that there appears to be an active investigation by law enforcement, we will refrain from making any additional comments, the spokesperson said. WASHINGTON Congress has certified President-elect Donald Trump as the 2024 election winner without challenge. Its in stark contrast to 2021 violence. Lawmakers convened under heavy security and a snowstorm to certify the vote, with the reading of the electoral results from the states coming swiftly. The legacy of Jan. 6, 2021, hung over Mondays proceedings as the Republican who tried to overturn the previous election is legitimately returning to power. As lawmakers gathered, the tightest national security is in place. Its a reminder of what happened at the U.S. Capitol four years ago, when a defeated Trump sent a mob to fight like hell. Massachusetts lawmakers who experienced the violence of four years ago were on hand Monday, as a heavy snow fell on the nations capital. A few inches of snow might shut down DC, but it wont stop anyone from Massachusetts or Kansas, U.S. Rep. Lori Trahan D-3rd District, posted to X, as she shared a selfie with U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids, D-Kans. The two lawmakers were " at the Capitol to fulfill our constitutional duty and certify the 2024 election results," Trahan wrote. U.S. Rep Jake Auchincloss, D-4th District, accused Trump of undermining the nations democratic pillars four years ago. Trump is inviting world leaders to his inauguration, an unusual move. But the guest list has never been whats impressed the rest of the world about the swearing-in of a new president, he posted to X. Since John Adams made way for Thomas Jefferson after a contentious election, people the world over have admired the orderly transfer of power as a testament to the worlds greatest democracy, Auchincloss continued. On January 6th, 2021, Trump attacked that tradition, and no amount of star power at his inauguration can wipe away that stain of dishonor. Layers of tall black fencing flank the U.S. Capitol complex in a stark reminder of what happened four years ago, when a defeated Trump sent his mob to fight like hell in what became the most gruesome attack on the seat of American democracy in 200 years. It is the tightest national security level possible. Vice President Kamala Harris, presiding over proceedings as the role of the office, read the tally. The chamber broke into applause, first Republicans for Trump, then Democrats for Harris. The whole process happened swiftly and without unrest. One by one, the state results were read aloud by the tellers as senators and representatives sat in seats in the House chamber. Vice President-elect JD Vance joined his former colleagues. Within half an hour the process was done. No violence, protests or even procedural objections in Congress this time. Republicans who challenged the 2020 election results when Trump lost to Democrat Joe Biden have no qualms this year after he defeated Harris. In a post to X, U.S. Sen. Ed Markey, D-Mass., noted the juxtaposition of the events four years removed from each other. Four years ago, seditionists led an insurrection against our democracy and our U.S. Capitol, Markey wrote, adding that Harris would ensure a peaceful transfer of power when she certifies the results of the 2024 election. We must never forget January 6th and will not allow history to be rewritten. U.S. Rep. Katherine Clark, D-5th District, the No. 2 Democrat in the House, thanked Harris for her service as she prepares to leave the government. Thank you, @VP Harris, for your unwavering leadership and commitment to country," Clark wrote on X. Nothing is more sacred to who we are than honoring the will of the people and preserving the peaceful transfer of power. Trump said in a Monday post online that Congress was certifying a GREAT election victory and called it A BIG MOMENT IN HISTORY. The days return to a U.S. tradition that launches the peaceful transfer of presidential power comes with an asterisk as Trump prepares to take office in two weeks with a revived sense of authority. He denies that he lost four years ago, muses about staying beyond the Constitutions two-term White House limit and promises to pardon some of the more than 1,250 people who have pleaded guilty or were convicted of crimes for the Capitol siege. Whats unclear is if Jan. 6, 2021, was the anomaly, the year Americans violently attacked their own government, or if this years expected calm becomes the outlier. The U.S. is struggling to cope with its political and cultural differences at a time when democracy worldwide is threatened. Trump calls Jan. 6, 2021, a day of love. We should not be lulled into complacency, said Ian Bassin, executive director of the cross-ideological nonprofit Protect Democracy. He and others have warned that returning to power an emboldened leader who has demonstrated his unwillingness to give up the office is an unprecedentedly dangerous move for a free country to voluntarily take. U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley, in a post to X, offered a similar sentiment. [Four] years ago, a violent mob incited by Trump attacked our democracy. And today, our democracy is still threatened by the harm he has promised to deliver in his next term, the Boston lawmaker wrote. Well never stop pursuing accountability & telling the story of what happened that day, Pressley wrote. Biden, speaking Sunday at events at the White House, said, Weve got to get back to the basic, normal transfer of power, the president said. What Trump did last time, Biden said, was a genuine threat to democracy. Im hopeful were beyond that now. Still, American democracy has proven to be resilient, and Congress, the branch of government closest to the people, was coming together to affirm the choice of Americans. With pomp and tradition, the day unfolded as it has countless times before, with the arrival of ceremonial mahogany boxes filled with the electoral certificates from the states boxes that staff were frantically grabbing and protecting as Trumps mob stormed the building last time. Senators walked across the Capitol which four years ago had filled with roaming rioters, some defecating and menacingly calling out for leaders, others engaging in hand-to-hand combat with police to the House to begin certifying the vote. Harris presided over the counting, as is the requirement for the vice president, and certify her own defeat much the way Democrat Al Gore did in 2001 and Republican Richard Nixon in 1961. She stood at the dais where then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi was abruptly rushed to safety last time as the mob closed in and lawmakers fumbled to put on gas masks and flee, and shots rang out as police killed Ashli Babbitt, a Trump supporter trying to climb through a broken glass door toward the chamber. The House chaplain, Margaret Kibben, who delivered a prayer during the mayhem four years ago, gave a simple request as the chamber opened to shine your light in the darkness. There are new procedural rules in place in the aftermath of what happened four years ago, when Republicans parroting Trumps lie that the election was fraudulent challenged the results their own states had certified. Under changes to the Electoral Count Act, it now requires one-fifth of lawmakers, instead of just one in each chamber, to raise any objections to election results. With security as tight as it is for the Super Bowl or the Olympics, law enforcement is on high alert for intruders. No tourists will be allowed. But none of that is expected to be necessary. Republicans, who met with Trump behind closed doors at the White House before Jan. 6, 2021, to craft a complex plan to challenge his election defeat, have accepted his win this time. Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., who led the House floor challenge in 2021, said people at the time were so astonished by the elections outcome and there were lots of claims and allegations. This time, he said, I think the win was so decisive.... It stifled most of that. Democrats, who have raised symbolic objections in the past, including during the disputed 2000 election that Gore lost to George W. Bush and ultimately decided by the Supreme Court, have no intention of objecting. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries has said the Democratic Party is not infested with election denialism. There are no election deniers on our side of the aisle, Jeffries said on the first day of the new Congress, to applause from Democrats in the chamber. You see, one should love America when you win and when you lose. Thats the patriotic thing to do, Jeffries said. Last time, far-right militias helped lead the mob to break into the Capitol in a war-zone-like scene. Officers have described being crushed and pepper-sprayed and beaten with Trump flag poles, slipping in other peoples blood. Leaders of the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys have been convicted of seditious conspiracy and sentenced to lengthy prison terms. Many others faced prison, probation, home confinement or other penalties. Democrats issued statements decrying the day, but many Republicans held firm in their views. Republican Rep. Mike Collins of Georgia posted Monday morning about the thousands of peaceful grandmothers at the Capitol that day. He said he was thankful that Trump has promised pardons. For U.S. Rep. James P. McGovern, D-2nd District, the memory lives on. His experience was very different than that of Collins. On January 6th, 2021 Donald Trump sent a violent mob to the Capitol Building to pressure Congress to certify that he won--even though he knew he lost, McGovern posted to X. I came within feet of the rioters that day. I will never forget the hate I saw in their eyes. Trump was impeached by the House on the charge of inciting an insurrection that day but was acquitted by the Senate. At the time, GOP leader Mitch McConnell blamed Trump for the siege but said his culpability was for the courts to decide. Federal prosecutors subsequently issued a four-count indictment of Trump for working to overturn the election, including for conspiracy to defraud the United States, but special counsel Jack Smith was forced to pare back the case once the Supreme Court ruled that a president has broad immunity for actions taken in office. Smith last month withdrew the case after Trump won reelection, adhering to Justice Department guidelines that sitting presidents cannot be prosecuted. Biden, in one of his outgoing acts, awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal to Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., and former Rep. Liz Cheney, R-Wyo., who had been the chair and vice chair of the congressional committee that conducted an investigation into Jan. 6, 2021. Trump has said those who worked on the Jan. 6 committee should be locked up. Associated Press writers Fatima Hussein and Ashraf Khalil contributed to this report. SPRINGFIELD The brother of a man killed in a police-involved shooting was arrested with a gun early Saturday morning after going to the home of one of two officers involved in the incident, according to investigators. Isaiah G. Lewis pleaded not guilty to five criminal counts in Springfield District Court on Monday. The charges include attempting to commit a crime, witness intimidation, possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony and improper storage of a firearm. Police say Lewis had a loaded gun on him not long after he visited the home of one of the officers 44 days after his brothers death. WESTFIELD - On Jan. 1, Westfield City Clerk Kaitlyn Bruce announced that the winner of the second annual Westfield Top Dog Contest is Dana, a 7-year old Carolina Dog rescue owned by Nicole Lussier, who will be wearing Westfield Dog Tag #1 in 2025. The contest was launched by Bruce in 2023 to bring attention of dog license renewals. Dana is a rescue dog. She was homeless on the streets of Texas. I pledged to rescue her the day she was supposed to be euthanized. She came to MA with a truckload of other dogs and had serious heart worms. With a lot of TLC from Westfield VCA, and an overload of love from me, she overcame her health complications. With a lot of patience, trust and consistency, Dana learned that she was loved and in her forever home. Dana is now a registered therapy dog and enjoys visiting nursing homes for lots of pets. She La La La loves living in Westfield, Lussier wrote in her submission to the contest. In the wake of the New Years Day terrorist attack in New Orleans that killed 14 people, a Worcester city councilor wants the city manager to conduct a security audit for the citys major events. Councilor-at-Large Kathleen M. Toomey is asking City Manager Eric D. Batista to perform an audit that includes recommendations for crowd and vehicular control to be used at large public events in Worcester. Scotiabank is selling its holdings in Colombia, Panama and Costa Rica to Colombian bank Banco Davivienda as it looks to reorganize its Latin American businesses. (Credit: Cole Burston) The Bank of Nova Scotia has signed an agreement to sell its operations in Colombia, Costa Rica and Panama as it looks to boost efficiencies and reorganize its Latin American businesses. The foreign operations will be transferred to Banco Davivienda SA, Colombias third-largest bank in terms of assets and profits, in exchange for a 20 per cent equity ownership in the newly combined entity, the Toronto-based lender said. With this agreement, we advance our execution plan towards sustainable and higher returns across our international banking markets, Francisco Aristeguieta, Scotiabanks head of international banking, said in a statement on Monday. Through the combined entity, (Scotiabank) will deliver more scale. The move seems to be a part of a strategy to allocate more capital to stable, high-return markets in North America, which Scotiabank announced in late 2023. The bank is currently looking to allocate a greater share of capital to Canada as well as recycle capital from its Latin American businesses to its corporate business in the United States. Scotiabank has the largest international footprint among its Canadian peers, but its businesses in Latin America have too many clients using only one banking product, chief executive Scott Thomson said in December 2023. As part of the banks plan, it purchased 14.9 per cent of Cleveland, Ohio-based lender KeyCorp for US$2.8 billion last year. As a result of the transaction in Latin America, Scotiabank will report an after-tax impairment loss of about $1.4 billion in the first quarter of 2025. A 20 per cent stake in Davivienda is currently worth approximately $600 million, National Bank of Canada analyst Gabriel Dechaine said in a note on Monday. (This) compares to the $1 billion (Scotiabank) paid to acquire its 51 per cent stake in the Colombian operation in 2012 and the US$360 million it paid to acquire its banking operations in Panama and Costa Rica in 2016 from Citibank. As a result, (Scotiabank) is recording around a $1.4-billion impairment charge during Q1/25. The bank reported net income of $1.7 billion in its previous quarter. Dechaine said the move was a vend-in of troubled operations for Scotiabank and that it was a modest positive for the bank. Colombia, in particular, had been a drag on (Scotiabanks) bottom line for several years, he said. The 20 per cent Davivienda stake could be more profitable to (Scotiabank) than its current position is, considering that its new partner has existing operations in these three countries that should allow it to extract expense synergies. A STATUS Yellow low temperature/ice warning will remain in place for Mayo until midnight on Friday with temperatures expected to plummet to close to -10 degrees in parts of the county. Mayo largely escaped the heavy snowfall which shut down many parts of Munster and Leinster over the weekend although Ireland West Airport Knock did experience a significant level of snowfall on Sunday and Monday morning. A Met Eireann Status Yellow warning for ice and snow is expected to end at midday tomorrow but the low temperature/ice warning is expected to remain in place until the end of the week. Met Eireann have warned the public in Mayo to expect very cold nights with widespread frost, ice and lying snow with temperatures in many parts of the county struggling to get above freezing during the day. The coldest temperatures are expected to occur in the early hours of Wednesday morning with temperatures expected to plummet to close to -10 degrees Celsius in parts of Mayo. The south and east of the county is expected to be the worst affected with Met Eireann forecasting that temperatures around Claremorris are expected to drop to -8 degrees Celsius on Wednesday morning. A Status Yellow warning is the lowest of Met Eireann's weather warning system and is issued when the weather does not pose a threat to the general population but is potentially dangerous on a localised scale. Gritting In light of the weather warning, Mayo County Council have stated that their gritting teams will be gritting designated roads as part of their Winter Maintenance Plan and urged motorists to exercise caution on roads which are not gritted. The National Emergency Co-ordination Group (NECG) met on Monday morning to discuss and co-ordinate the ongoing response to the disruptive weather. Keith Leonard, National Director of the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management also urged the public to exercise caution. We will continue to see wintry showers and extremely cold temperatures over the coming hours and days, and hazardous travel conditions will continue for much of the week. Given the prevalence of extremely low temperatures throughout the country over the next few days, road and path surfaces will present a hazard to drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. Even where there has been no snow, icy conditions will prevail and surfaces may look deceptively safe. Furthermore, its important to emphasise again that even where roads have been salted, people should slow down, drive with caution and allow extra time for their journey. Drivers travelling longer journeys should be aware of conditions right along their route, as conditions are differing widely across different parts of the country. As well as looking after yourself, we are also asking you to look out for others, he added. A fall in plastic bottles and cans on our streets, brought about by the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), was not enough to reduce overall litter levels in Ireland last year. That is the finding of business group Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL), whose latest survey of 40 towns and cities shows Castlebar to be clean, in joint 14th position, down from 6th spot in mid-2024. Naas was the cleanest town in the rankings, with Dublin North Inner City bottom of the pile. The An Taisce report for Castlebar stated: "Top-ranking sites in Castlebar included the approach routes, Market Car Park and Main Street the latter has been attractively presented and maintained with lovely paving / tree planting etc. By far the most heavily littered site surveyed was a Lane off Cavendish Lane it presents very poorly with overflowing industrial wheely bins / wooden pallet and large piece of plastic wrapping." READ NEXT: Councillor claims lower speed limits will not reduce road fatalities as 19 people lose their lives on Mayo roads in 2024 Overall litter levels were on a par with 12 months ago. Naas finished atop the rankings for the 3rd time in 4 years, ahead of 5-time victor Kilkenny and Monaghan town. In all, 60 percent of the towns and cities surveyed were deemed clean. Galway replaced Waterford as the cleanest city, but city areas occupied all but one of the bottom 10 places in the IBAL league table, despite some improvement in Limerick and Mahon in Cork. Littered Ballybane in Galway and Dublin City Centre deteriorated year-on-year, while Dublin North Inner City was the only area to be branded seriously littered. On a positive note, 2024 saw a further fall in the number of sites within cities and towns that were deemed litter blackspots, which suggests that local authorities were generally more effective in tackling urban dumping and in addressing sites that IBAL had previously highlighted. The survey also revealed a near-50% fall in the prevalence of plastic bottles and cans in the 500+ sites monitored since the Deposit Return Scheme was introduced last year. We are definitely seeing cans and bottles disappear from our streets, which is very welcome not only are they unsightly, but the bottles contribute to the very real problem of plastic pollution. However, it is clear from our survey that people continue to discard a wide range of litter types with flagrant disregard for their surroundings, says Conor Horgan. "Sweet wrappers and fast-food wrappers were the most common litter types, ahead of plastic bags and coffee cups, which were present in over 20% of sites. The DRS was one of a number of structural measures broached by the last government as part of its environmental agenda, with knock-on benefits in terms of litter. A ban on disposable vapes and a coffee cup levy were others. The need for such measures is evident in the stubbornly low penetration levels of refillable coffee cups and the proliferation of highly damaging vape litter, which cannot be recycled. If we are to see sustainable improvement nationwide, it is important that the incoming regime maintain the momentum on anti-litter legislation. Killarney, which outlawed disposable coffee cups in 2023, was one of the most improved towns last year, rising from 14th to 4th in the rankings. Given the evident success of this initiative in Killarney, it is perplexing why other towns have not yet followed suit, commented Conor Horgan. The Dr Tom Cavanagh Memorial Trophy will be presented to the Cathaoirleach of County Kildare Cllr Kevin Duffy at Naas Library and Cultural Centre at noon today. One of the loose ends that still exists with Mayo's Michael Lynn's story is the question of what happened with the money, virtually none of which has been recovered. When solicitor Michael Lynn fled Ireland in December 2007, hed clocked up 80 million in loans from high street banks, much of them fraudulently secured via multiple mortgages. And he owed another 12 million to private investors who had paid out for unbuilt apartments abroad. A new two-part documentary series beginning on RTE One and RTE Player tonight, highlights new links involving a Bulgarian business associate of Michael Lynn's setting up companies in Ireland relating to property development, and those company accounts being accessed by Mr Lynn's wife, Brid Murphy withdrawing cash in the last year. Michael Lynn: The Fugitive reveals the true story of an epic hunt to bring one of Irelands most notorious fugitives to justice told directly by the reporter who tracked him down, his victims, and former employees. The two-part series is directed by Trevor Birney and produced by Fine Point Films for RTE. Irish Mail on Sunday Journalist Michael O'Farrell and photographer Sean Dwyer ended up hunting Michael Lynn down all over the world, from Portugal to Bulgaria to a hellhole prison in Brazil. Michael Lynn was facing serious questions about his fraudulent actions in Ireland when he fled to Portugal. They spotted someone tearing up documents and leaving them outside Lynns offices in Portugal one night. When they got them back to the hotel and pieced them together, it was a treasure trove of information on Lynn. They had discovered a cache of discarded documents in Portugal which led them deeper into Lynns labyrinth of lies. Sean Dwyer: "You couldn't have asked for a better map of how Lynn had stitched together his business over the previous 12 months and how he was planning to roll it out over the next several years." Michael O'Farrell: "I could see bank transfers and cheques being signed, 20,000 going here. I could see handwritten documents detailing 3million and 4 million worth of transfers from his client account into strange places." The documents explained that Vantea was his new company with a new shareholding structure owned by anonymous companies in strange parts of the world that you couldn't trace. Everywhere he went, his assets were disappearing into this secret void. The documents uncovered by Journalist Michael O'Farrell back 17 years ago are still relevant to what's happening today. One of the names in those documents was a Bulgarian man Yavor Poptoshev. Journalist Michael O'Farrell has seen that name pop up in Slovakia on company documents with Brid Murphy (wife of Micheal Lynn), in the Seychelles, and more recently, and intriguingly, in Ireland. It was a name that only began to be connected during the trial when it was realised that Michael Lynn had moved house and the new house, according to the land registry documents, had been bought by a company associated with Mr. Poptoshev in Ireland. When Michael O'Farrell investigated Mr. Poptoshev a little bit deeper, he learnt he has set up various other companies in Ireland, which are engaging in property developments. They appeared to be back in business. During Michael Lynn's second trial, his wife Brid Murphy was accessing those company accounts via ATM machines while he was on legal Aid. All of that is still the focus of a Garda money laundering investigation. One year ago this week, Mr Poptoshev was arrested during dawn raids on his house and Michael Lynn's house. Michael O'Farrell tells the RTE documentary: "Weeks after Michael Lynn is in prison in Ireland, we're still standing on a hillside in Brittas County Wicklow at dawn watching the guards raid his wife's house. So in some ways, it's like a story that doesn't want to die. But that's because the life of the story is what happened to the money?" Viewers will hear for the first time the recording of Michael Lynn admitting : "I was on my own personal drugged up ambition, fuelled by the desire to succeed. I was the Celtic Cub." It's still the only time that we can hear Michael Lynn's voice in public, because the interview he agreed to do that day is the only interview he's ever given publicly. 16 years after he failed to show up to a special High Court hearing to be questioned about his property dealings, the former solicitor, Michael Lynn, was imprisoned in December 2023 after being convicted of stealing almost 18 million from financial institutions. Journalist Michael O'Farrell: "When Michael Lynn ran, the trail of destruction he left in his wake started to emerge pretty quickly. It was obvious that the banks had a problem, but what wasn't immediately clear was that he'd also taken millions from hundreds of ordinary people." READ NEXT: RTE viewers left heartbroken by Tommy Tiernan Show moment as chat show returns Paul Ryan a retired PE Teacher from Dublin paid a deposit to buy an apartment in Portugal: "Michael Lynn stole roughly 60,000 from me. I didn't discuss it with my family or my daughters because I felt a terrible sense of guilt that I had lost all this money. The apartment... the dream was retirement. Our family could come and visit or we can all meet. That was a dream." "What you call the legal system in the state didn't seem to have any interest in what the small person had lost in this particular aspect. It was all about banks." Sean O'Mahony a Publican from Killarney in Kerry told the RTE documentary: "Michael Lynn stole up to 50,000 from me and my family. Early in 2000 unfortunately, my wife got cancer. I took my own voluntary redundancy so that I could stay at home full time with her. I came across the company Kendar through a friend of mine who was an auctioneer at the time. And my wife, she got a voluntary redundancy and she wanted to invest that in a property abroad so our two girls would remember her going forward." "It was an awful time in our life. But to think that we had to deal with a situation like Michael Lynn as well. We wrote to the president. We wrote to the Taoiseach. We wrote to the Department of Justice. We wrote to everyone possible to see could we get help. But unfortunately, we were ignored." Local Mayo Councillor Michael Loftus spoke of Michael Lynn: "Unfortunately, Michael has brought shame to our community. When you mention Crossmolina today, what's the first thing people will say to you? That's where Michael Lynn was from. Michael Lynn was to us very successful. He was somebody who was on the up, who was doing so well in Dublin, and that's what we wanted to see. We always wanted to see people doing well in our community. And it is only sad to think that he went the wrong way with it. He started to build a hole that he actually went into and couldn't get out of without doing more dishonesty. Your name is so important. And Michaels name is muck." Michael Lynn is still under investigation for money laundering. And if he is found guilty of money laundering, that carries a 14 year sentence. Watch Michael Lynn: The Fugitive beginning tonight, Monday 06 January at 9.35pm on RTE One and RTE Player. Ireland is bracing itself for even more snow on Monday night amid further weather warnings from Met Eireann. Some parts of the country have already seen 40cm of snow over the weekend but the deluge may not be over with further flurries likely for counties unaffected the first time around. Donegal is now likely to see 7cm of snow in parts with other areas along the west coast and north west midlands also looking likely to welcome similar amounts. Other parts of the country could see between 3 and 5cm of snow with a prolonged spell of freezing temperatures making a thaw next to impossible until Friday. While a Met Eireann snow-ice warning for the entire country ends at noon on Tuesday, a separate Status Yellow low temperature/ice warning for Ireland will remain in place until midnight on Thursday night. Met Eireann warns of "very cold nights with widespread frost, ice and lying snow. Temperatures struggling to get above freezing during the day." Night-time temperatures could touch -8 or -9 degrees overnight in some sheltered areas and -3 or -4 more widely. Potential impacts are "hazardous travelling conditions on roads and underfoot and travel disruption." READ NEXT: An Post halts delivery services in six counties due to heavy snow Meanwhile, Cathal Nolan from Ireland's Weather Channel has issued his own set of warnings and a weather map pinpointed where the heaviest snow will fall on Monday night and Tuesday morning. "Further to our weather warning for snowfall yesterday an updated STATUS ORANGE weather warning for additional snowfall has been issued by Ireland Weather Channel, with accumulations of between 5-7cm possible this evening and overnight across certain parts of the country, with 2-3cm possible right across the country, excluding immediate coastal areas of the southeast. "Commencing at 4pm in Donegal, before extending across the country and remaining in place until 10pm when the main body of precipitation clears away to the southeast. This polar low has the potential of bringing moderate accumulations of snow to parts of Donegal, Leitrim, Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Roscommon, Longford and North Westmeath, with parts of West Limerick, East Kerry and North Cork also included once more, as well as other upland areas in Tipperary, Clare, Laois and Offaly. "In the areas covered in the orange warning snowfall totals of between 5-7cm are possible in some of the worst impacted areas away from coasts, with most areas across the country at risk of between 2-3cm with some areas perhaps higher than this. Further disruption is likely as a consequence of this moderate snowfall event and we urge drivers in the Status Orange areas to only make necessary journeys and to check road conditions before heading out this evening. You can see Cathal's detailed map below: "We are also issuing a country wide Status Orange weather warning for Ice and Low temperatures with ice becoming an issue right across the country once again, with treacherous driving conditions expected overnight and into tomorrow, with temperatures falling back as low as -5 or -6 degrees Celsius in some areas. This will lead to challenging conditions for motorists once again," Cathal's forecast concluded. Met Eireann says Monday night will bring "clear spells and scattered sleet and snow showers, the showers most frequent in the west and north. Widespread frost and ice with lowest temperatures of -5 to 0 degrees and moderate west to northwest winds." They say: "Tuesday will be another very cold day with sunshine and further scattered wintry showers, mainly in the west and north of the country. Frost and ice will persist in some areas all day with highest temperatures of 0 to +5 degrees and moderate northwest winds." Beyond that, their outlook is for "very cold" weather to persist "with widespread frost and ice lingering and some wintry showers too." by Sarah Mahoney , Staff Writer @mahoney_sarah, January 3, 2025 It makes sense that CPG readers are hungry for macro-intelligence, and that a story about moderating ad budgets would wind up on top of the years most-read CPG Insider columns. And it follows that as they threaded their way through pricing upheaval, election tumult, and loyalty shifts, theyd also devour the perspective of Gail Hollander, CMO of the J.M. Smucker Co., about staying positive to better connect with people as they fill their grocery baskets: "Our Brands Have To Be A Bright Light." And readers couldnt learn enough about how brands make those connections. Toxic political polarization? Johnsonville celebrates apolitical sausage in Scranton, Pennsylvania, the swing-state city that endured the heaviest level of political ad bombing in the country. "Johnsonville Offers Solace In Sausage" focused on how a local event powered a national branding effort. (Naturally, the event was hosted by a star of "The Office," Brian Baumgartner.) Kraft is also finding new definitions for empathy. Recognizing that Gen Z males could use a little extra comfort, the company launched an ad campaign that sent them into the woods, into the arms of a large and loving bear. Annies Mac & Cheese went another way, and that grabbed readers' attention, too. With a focus on Gen Z and millennial families, the General Mills-owned brand gave more cheese and value to food-cost-focused shoppers. The company announced the change on the liveliest Gen Z channel: Food-obsessed TikTok. Targeting those hard-to-reach Gen Z shoppers pushed other stories into the years Top 10, too. That included using a sense of humor, as in the campaign in which "Dr. Squatch Insures Nick Cannon's Balls For $10 Million," and using quirky, unconventional storytelling, as Heinz did with the saga of a fake heiress and some boarding-school ketchup smugglers. Some brands looked for more personalization and interaction, as in Frito-Lay and Jack Link's offer to give Gen Z "Flavorfied" headshots. Learning more about companies that are injecting new twists into existing categories always has strong appeal, which explains reader interest in SmartSweets Low-Sugar Conquest and in one of the summers most unlikely hits: Krafts pickle mayonnaise. by Ray Schultz , January 5, 2025 Viant Technology Inc., provider of an AI-driven programmatic ad tool, has formed a strategic partnership with the Association of National Advertisers (ANA). The arrangement will allow Viant to work with the ANAs network of over 1,600 companies to drive programmatic advances in the advertising industry, the company says. We are excited to welcome Viant to our exclusive group of strategic partners within the Association of National Advertisers, says Bill Duggan, group executive vice president of the ANA. With groundbreaking innovations like ViantAI, Viant continues to set new standards in critical areas such as AI, CTV and sustainability, demonstrating true leadership in the advertising community. by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, January 6, 2025 Samsung Electronics unveiled technology powered by artificial intelligence (AI) that brings Click to Search and Live Translation to Samsung's smart TVs for a better search and viewing experience. Click to Search is Samsung's version of Googles Circle to Search feature for its TVs. It offers additional information about the content on the screen, such as identifying an actor or exploring displayed content, without disrupting the viewing experience. Samsung plans to work closely with Google to expand what Vision AI can do. For now, in collaboration with Microsoft at CES 2025 in Las Vegas on Monday, Samsung announced the new Smart TVs and Smart Monitors featuring Microsoft Copilot. Through the collaboration with Microsoft, Smart Monitor (M9) offers the Copilot service, which will search for information related to the content being viewed and provide content recommendations. It intends to introduce various AI services, including Copilot, into TV products in the future. advertisement advertisement AI has been integrated into Samsungs latest TVs to deliver personalized experiences. The AI support in the Samsung Vision AI screen acts as a central hub. This is done through the integration with the SmartThings ecosystem to provide real-time updates about the households environment, such as safety alerts and daily updates when the homeowner is not home. A feature that Samsung calls Pet and Family Care keeps an eye on things such as detecting unusual behavior in both pets and family members. It can automatically adjust room settings, like dimming the lights when a child falls asleep, and provides real-time updates and recorded events through TVs The company also made the screen look more like art and less like technology by expanding on its commitment to the Samsung Art Store, which now features more than 3,000 curated works from global partners such as MoMA and the estates of Magritte and Basquiat. India detects two cases of HMPV in infants, raising awareness about respiratory illness. HMPV cases detected in India; no travel link found. Stay alert to respiratory health risks. #hmpv #medindia Advertisement First HMPV Cases in India A three-month-old girl, previously diagnosed with bronchopneumonia, who has since been discharged from a private hospital in Bengaluru. previously diagnosed with bronchopneumonia, who has since been discharged from a private hospital in Bengaluru. An eight-month-old boy, also with bronchopneumonia, who is currently recovering after testing positive for HMPV. Advertisement Health Ministry Clarifies No International Link HMPV has been in circulation globally, including in India, for some time. There is no unusual spike in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases. The country remains equipped to manage respiratory illness outbreaks, as demonstrated by recent preparedness drills. Advertisement What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)? Common symptoms include: Learn more about HMPV Global Concerns of HMPV The Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus first detected in China, has now surfaced in India. Two confirmed cases have been reported in infants in Bengaluru, raising concerns about its spread. Heres a closer look at what we know about HMPV and its implications.The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) confirmed the detection of HMPV cases in Karnataka during routine respiratory illness surveillance. The details of the cases are:The Union Health Ministry issued a statement clarifying that the affected infants had no history of international travel, highlighting that:ICMR continues to monitor HMPV trends throughout the year, while the World Health Organization (WHO) provides regular updates on the virus's status globally.HMPV, first identified in 2001, primarily targets the upper and lower respiratory systems. It affects people of all age groups but poses the greatest risk to young children and older adults.Severe infections may result in complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia. Symptoms usually manifest 36 days post-exposure.HMPV has been reported in several countries, including the United States, Canada, and parts of Europe. In 2023, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted an 11% increase in cases. Although WHO has not declared an emergency, the virus's spread has prompted vigilance among health authorities worldwide.With no significant uptick in respiratory illness cases, the Indian health system remains on alert. Routine surveillance and proactive measures ensure the ability to manage any potential outbreaks. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed and adhere to basic respiratory hygiene to minimize risks.Source-Medindia BEIRUT Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah was killed in an Israeli airstrike last year while inside the militant group's war operations room, according to new details Sunday disclosed by a senior Hezbollah official. A series of Israeli airstrikes flattened several buildings in Beiruts southern suburbs on Sept. 27, 2024, killing Nasrallah. The Lebanese Health Ministry said six people died. According to news reports, Nasrallah and other senior officials were meeting underground. The assassination of Nasrallah, who had led Hezbollah for 32 years, turned months of low-level strikes between Israel and the militants into all-out war that battered much of southern and eastern Lebanon for two months until a U.S.-brokered ceasefire took effect Nov. 27. His Eminence (Hassan Nasrallah) used to lead the battle and war from this location, top Hezbollah security official Wafiq Safa told a news conference Sunday near near the site where Nasrallah was killed. He said Nasrallah died in the war operations room. He did not offer other details. Lebanese media had reported that Safa was a target of Israeli airstrikes in central Beirut before the ceasefire but appeared unscathed. During the first phase of the ceasefire, Hezbollah is supposed to move its fighters, weapons and infrastructure away from southern Lebanon north of the Litani River, while Israeli troops that invaded southern Lebanon need to withdraw all within 60 days. Lebanese army soldiers are to deploy in large numbers and alongside United Nations peacekeepers be the sole armed presence in southern Lebanon. Lebanon and Hezbollah have been critical of ongoing Israeli strikes and overflights across the country and for only withdrawing from two of dozens of Lebanese villages it controls. Israel says that the Lebanese military has not done its share in dismantling Hezbollah infrastructure. Hezbollahs current leader Naim Kassem in a televised address Saturday warned that its fighters could strike Israel if its troops dont leave the south by the end of the month. Meanwhile, Israels defense minister Israel Katz echoed similar sentiments should Hezbollah's militants not head north of the Litani River and their infrastructure remain intact. If this condition is not met, there will be no agreement, and Israel will be forced to act on its own to ensure the safe return of the residents of (Israels) north to their homes, he said. Safa said that Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, who negotiated the ceasefire deal with Washington, told Hezbollah that the government will meet with U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein soon. And in light of what happens, then there will be a position, said Safa. Hochstein had led the shuttle diplomacy efforts to reach the fragile truce. The remains of a Marine killed in World War II were identified and are scheduled to be laid to rest Tuesday, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced in a news release last week. Sgt. Robert F. Van Heck, of Chicago, Illinois, was 25 years old in 1943 when he was killed during the U.S. campaign in the Pacific, the agency reported. He was a member of the 2nd Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force, which saw heavy combat over several days of fighting against the Japanese military on an atoll of the Gilbert Islands located in the South-Central Pacific. Van Heck's remains were accounted for on April 13, 2023, the agency said, using anthropological and DNA analysis. He will be buried Jan. 7 in Hillside, Illinois, a small suburb of Chicago, the agency said. Read Next: Air Force Veteran Tells the Story of Hidden Health Risks at Nevada Test Site In November 1943, Marines were facing heavy Japanese resistance on the island of Betio, part of the Tarawa Atoll in the Gilbert Island chain. After days of fighting, roughly 1,000 Marines and sailors were killed and thousands more were wounded, leaving the Japanese forces "virtually annihilated," the DPAA said. The agency said that roughly 350 service members' remains are still unaccounted for from the battle. CBS News reported that Van Heck sent a letter home to his family, which was later published in a newspaper shared with the outlet by U.S. officials. Van Heck said: "Don't count on me coming home this spring as we had planned." According to the clipping, his family received a telegram announcing Van Heck's death only half an hour after they read that letter. Three years after the campaign in the Gilbert Islands, the 604th Quartermaster Graves Registration Company consolidated the American remains recovered from the Tarawa Atoll and sent them to Hawaii for analysis, the DPAA said. Nearly half of the known casualties were never located, the agency said, and those who could not be identified were buried anonymously at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Hawaii. In 2017 -- nearly 75 years after the conflict -- DPAA disinterred "Tarawa Unknown X-265," the code Van Heck's remains were labeled as before his identification. "A rosette will be placed next to his name to indicate he has been accounted for," the DPAA said. Scientists with the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System used something called mitochondrial DNA, or mtDNA, to analyze those remains -- a type of genetic analysis used in forensic science. According to an online obituary, Van Heck served as an amphibian tractor crewman during the assault on Betio. It said that his vehicle was an LVT-1, an amphibious landing vehicle, named "Wabbit Twacks" and painted with the number "13 " to "ward off bad luck." Many of the approximately 350 unaccounted for troops from Tarawa were Marines killed on the first day, according to the DPAA, likely from intense artillery and machine-gun fire while the amphibious assault was ongoing. In 2016, the DPAA expanded efforts to identify remains from the battle, disinterring nearly 100 caskets. Since the renewal of recovery efforts in the 1970s, the DPAA said, nearly 1,000 Americans killed in World War II have been identified and returned home. The agency said that there are still 71,989 troops who served in that conflict unaccounted for. Related: Two WWII Marines Accounted For SEOUL, South Korea North Korea on Monday fired a ballistic missile that flew 1,100 kilometers (685 miles) before landing in waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan, South Koreas military said, extending its weapons testing weeks before Donald Trump returns as U.S. president. The Souths Joint Chiefs of Staff said the midrange missile was fired from an area near the North Korean capital Pyongyang and that the launch preparations were detected in advance by the U.S. and South Korean militaries. It denounced the launch as a provocation that poses a serious threat to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. The joint chiefs said the military was strengthening its surveillance and defense posture in preparation for possible additional launches. Japans Defense Ministry said the missile landed outside its exclusive economic zone and that there were no reports of damage to vessels or aircraft. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed concern that the Norths accelerated pace in missile tests is advancing its capabilities. The North last year tested various nuclear-capable systems that threaten its neighbors and the United States, including a new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile that achieved both the highest altitude and longest flight time of any missile the country has launched. Blinken holds talks in Seoul as political turmoil shakes South Korea The launch came as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was visiting Seoul for talks with South Korean allies over the North Korean nuclear threat and other issues. Blinkens visit comes amid political turmoil in South Korea following President Yoon Suk Yeols short-lived martial law decree and subsequent impeachment by parliament last month, which experts say puts the country at a disadvantage in getting a steady footing with Trump ahead of his return to the White House. In a news conference with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul, Blinken condemned North Koreas latest launch, which violates U.N. Security Council resolutions against the North. He also reiterated concerns about the growing alignment between North Korea and Russia in Moscow's war on Ukraine. According to U.S., Ukrainian and South Korean assessments, North Korea has sent more than 10,000 troops and conventional weapons systems to support Moscows war campaign. There are concerns that Russia could transfer to North Korea advanced weapons technology in return, which could potentially enhance the threat posed by leader Kim Jong Uns nuclear-armed military. Blinken described the military cooperation between Russia and North Korea as a two-way street, saying Russia has been providing military equipment and training to the North and intends to share space and satellite technology. Blinken and Cho both dismissed concerns about damage to the U.S.-South Korea alliance in the aftermath of the political turmoil in Seoul. Experts had warned that Yoons martial law decree which lasted only hours but has rattled politics, high-level diplomacy and financial markets for weeks exposed the fragility of South Koreas democratic system in a divided society. We had serious concerns about some of the actions that President Yoon took and we communicated those directly to the government, Blinken said. At the same time we have tremendous confidence in the resilience of South Koreas democracy, in the strength of its institutions and in the efforts that its making to work through those institutions, pursuant to the constitution and the rule of law to resolve differences and to do so peacefully. Kim's warning ahead of Trump's return In a year-end political conference, Kim, the North Korean leader, vowed to implement the toughest anti-U.S. policy and criticized the Biden administrations efforts to strengthen security cooperation with Seoul and Tokyo, which he described as a nuclear military bloc for aggression. North Korean state media did not specify Kims policy plans or mention any specific comments about Trump. During his first term, Trump met Kim three times for talks on the Norths nuclear program. Even if Trump returns to the White House, a quick resumption of diplomacy with North Korea could be unlikely. Kims strengthened position built on his expanded nuclear arsenal, deepening alliance with Russia and the weakening enforcement of U.S. international sanctions presents new challenges to resolving the nuclear standoff, experts say. Its unclear whether Trump would be as active as Biden in strengthening U.S. alliances in Asia. During his first term, Trump complained about the cost of keeping 28,000 U.S. troops in South Korea to deter North Korean threats and constantly pushed for significant increases in Seouls defense contributions. There are also concerns in Seoul that Trumps America first approach would damage South Korean interests in trade through increased tariffs and other measures. __ Associated Press writer Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to this report. Beneficiaries in the Tricare West Region who failed to provide TriWest Healthcare Alliance with their billing information by Jan. 1 have a little more time to update their payment plan. The Pentagon's health program issued a notice Friday saying that beneficiaries in the expanded West Region who use Tricare Prime and Tricare Select have until Jan. 30 to update their payment information with TriWest before losing their health benefits. Meanwhile, those with Tricare Young Adult, Tricare Reserve Select or Tricare Retired Reserve have until Jan. 15 to provide their payment information to TriWest or they will be disenrolled retroactive to Jan. 1, according to the Defense Health Agency. Read Next: Green Beret Who Detonated Cybertruck Left Note Calling Attack a 'Wake-Up Call' The deadline extension follows a last-minute flurry of notifications to Tricare West Region patients encouraging them to update payment information if they use a credit card or bank transfer to pay their Tricare enrollment fees. As of Dec. 26, just 40% of those who needed to update their information had done so, according to the Defense Health Agency. By Jan. 2, the percentage had increased to 54%, according to a DHA statement provided to Military.com on Monday. "TriWest is increasing that percentage daily, and DHA is monitoring that progress," the statement read. The Defense Department awarded the new Tricare contract for the West Region to TriWest in December 2022, and after a series of bid protests and a lawsuit, the company retained the contract effective Jan. 1. The change affects 4.5 million Tricare beneficiaries, including nearly all beneficiaries in six states including Arkansas, Illinois, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas and Wisconsin that shifted to the West Region. It does not apply to those who pay for health benefits by military allotment. It also does not apply to those who will remain in the East Region, have Tricare for Life, the U.S. Family Health Plan or an overseas Tricare plan. Customers can set up their payment information online by going to the TriWest portal and choosing the "New User, Sign Up Now" option. Once they provide an email address, a verification code will be sent to that email to be used to complete the process. In a Jan. 3 news release, Tricare officials urged beneficiaries to be sure to enter their benefits number from their Uniformed Services ID card without dashes to ensure that all accounts are linked correctly. Beneficiaries can also mail an automatic payment authorization form to TriWest and call TriWest at 1-888-874-9378 if they have any issues. "Call volume is heavy now, so please be patient," officials wrote in the news release. Beneficiaries on social media including Facebook and Reddit have reported problems with the online registration system and setting up monthly or even annual payments with TriWest. TriWest is a consortium of nonprofit Blue Cross Blue Shield plans and university hospital systems. It managed the Tricare West Region from 1996 to 2013 and currently manages the Department of Veterans Affairs Community Care Network in the western U.S. and Hawaii. Related: Tricare Patients Fear Losing Preferred Health Care Providers Amid Contract Transition Navy veteran and engineer Charles Sanna didn't invent hot chocolate, but he changed the way Americans make it. For centuries, hot drinking chocolate was a beverage of the world's elite aristocracies. Cocoa was expensive, and even as world trade in the commodity grew and made it cheaper for the masses, the process of actually making drinking chocolate was rather labor intensive. For most, it meant adding cocoa powder or chopped chocolate to heated milk and sugar -- and anyone who has attempted to boil milk can tell you it requires constant attention. This might be fine for the casual drinker, but for the American consumer, it just won't do. When Sanna realized he could turn an excess of his company's coffee creamer into instant packets for soldiers fighting in the Korean War, his invention proved an overnight sensation. Necessity is the mother of invention and Charles Sanna needed to use tons of leftover coffee creamer. Sanna's first step toward instant cocoa mix came in the 1950s, when he developed a means of extending the shelf life of dehydrated, powdered, sweetened whole milk coffee creamers. By reducing the amount of oxygen in the packets, the milk could now last for years. This caught the attention of Army leaders who wanted to use the product for field use. Sanna's family company, Sanna Dairy Engineers, was contracted by the U.S. government to make powdered coffee creamer for American troops fighting in Korea. The contract stipulated a harsh penalty if they were undersupplied, so the company made an astounding surplus to ensure it met the requirements. In addition, none of the company's overstock could be used to fill future orders, compounding the surplus. The contract left Sanna with a huge overstock when the war ended in 1953, but the entrepreneurial spirit inside the former Navy engineer wouldn't let it go to waste. He began experimenting with the packets in his Wisconsin home, consulting the family cookbook, his own taste buds and his children as product testers. He even considered the source of the cow for its milkfat content. "I believed that it would make an excellent ingredient for a hot cup of cocoa," he told The New York Times in a later interview. "I consulted the family cookbook and determined the best proportions of creamer, sugar, cocoa and vanilla. ... The lab promptly came up with the finished product. It was delightful!" The product the lab finished was called Brown Swiss, so named after a breed of cattle in Switzerland (though the milk came from Wisconsin-grown Holsteins). Sanna marketed his new product to restaurants and airlines, but found there was a healthy consumer market after those same restaurants and airlines complained their customers were stealing the hot cocoa packets to use at home. So Sanna went back to the drawing board with this new customer base in mind. The use of his powdered creamer had a high butterfat content, which caused it to go bad, so he replaced the creamer with soluble nonfat milk powder. This switch made the product last longer on store shelves. The new instant cocoa mix, meant for mugs in home kitchens, was branded Swiss Miss in 1961 and could be made with just hot water. Charles' brother Anthony is usually credited for coming up with the names of the products. Swiss Miss was purchased by Beatrice Foods in 1967, which was in turn sold to ConAgra Foods in 1990. Sanna died on March 13, 2019, at age 101, grateful that his creation was so beloved by so many people. Want to Learn More About Military Life? Whether you're thinking of joining the military, looking for post-military careers or keeping up with military life and benefits, Military.com has you covered. Subscribe to Military.com to have military news, updates and resources delivered directly to your inbox. As you read this, people at the Pentagon and several civilian partner organizations are putting their heads together to make Americas combat vehicles more effective and efficient through electrification. By combining diesel engines and electric motors, engineers hope to create a way for service members to move in silence and keep mission-critical electronics up and running longer. The previous generation of military leaders didnt get it done; neither did the one before that. This isnt uncharted territory, though. Americas first tank was actually a gas-electric hybrid. It didnt get past the prototype phase, but it influenced tank development overseas and laid the groundwork for American tankers. America First Was Just Plain Silly The longer you look at this concept vehicle, the more problems youll see. (Tank Encyclopedia) During the first months of World War I, it became clear that draft animals would not keep the massive armies supplied with key logistics for long. The battlefield was too dangerous and too difficult to traverse -- with feet or hooves. According to an archived Landships article, the British military turned from Clydesdales and steam-engine tractors to a gas-powered, 15-ton tractor from the Holt Manufacturing Company in the United States. The 75-horsepower Holt Caterpillar tractor (yep, that Caterpillar) could only manage about 5 mph with no weight in tow, but since it had tracks instead of wheels, it could tow heavy artillery pieces through muddy fields better than anything else available. The Holt tractor was popular among Allied forces for its ability to outperform draft horses on the battlefields of World War I. (Wikimedia Commons) The tractor also served as the foundation for Britains secret weapon: the tank. Holt had minimal involvement other than supplying the tractors for this project, but that didnt stop the company from cashing in on a perfectly good marketing opportunity. Tank Encyclopedia notes that the company hastily built a tank of its own for use in local parades in 1916. The beetle-shaped creation roamed the streets of Peoria, Illinois, rather than the battlefield, but it still made a splash in the national news. Fortunately for the designers, photos of the actual tanks hadnt reached the American public so nobody was any wiser when they saw a glorified grain silo with America First painted on the side. America First was a lousy concept, but it was the first glimpse of tank warfare that the American people got. (Library of Congress) If you look closely at Holts America First tank, you might have a few questions. How does the crew see where theyre going? For that matter, how did they even get into the tank in the first place? Isnt that stationary turret a little small for three machine guns? Fair questions, all. Maybe thats why this prototype ended up being a one-off for local parades. Behold the Holt Hybrid-Electric Tank The hybrid Holt tank showed promise, but the U.S. military never deployed it during World War I. The in-house America First prototype was a case of good initiative and bad judgment. Somebody in the U.S. military must have seen promise in the concept, though, because Holt ended up building another prototype for the Army. An archived Landships article reports that the four-cylinder gasoline engine supplied power not to the tracks, but to a pair of General Electric motors that drove each track independently. This gave the vehicle improved mobility and left enough room at the front of the armored compartment for a Vickers mountain cannon in the nose and a .30 caliber machine gun on either side. It was a clever idea, but the extra weight of the weapons, armor and powertrain made the tank far too slow and heavy -- roughly 25 tons as Landships estimates. Thats a lot for a vehicle with an estimated 90 horsepower. A fictional tank based on the Holt Caterpillar tractor appeared in the 1917 miniseries Patria. (Tank Encyclopedia) The U.S. military wasnt interested in Holts hybrid tank, but according to Tank Encyclopedia, Hollywood was. William Randolph Hearsts International Film Service used a similar design based on the Holt Caterpillar tractor for the weirdly anti-Japanese 1917 miniseries Patria (remember, this was more than a decade before hostilities with Japan and right in the middle of a war with Germany, so thats kind of an odd choice for an on-screen foe). Much of the series film has been destroyed or lost, including footage of the tank. World War I: Proving Grounds for Bizarre Tanks World War I saw old and new technology collide; here, we see a tank crew communicating by carrier pigeon. (Wikimedia Commons) World War I began with cavalry that traveled on horseback rather than in helicopters, uniforms that looked like formal evening attire, and marching formations that hadnt changed significantly since the days of flintlock muskets. It ended with chemical weapons, aerial dogfights and tank battles. As with any new technology, the first tanks to see combat used pretty wild designs. The British military led the way in early tank development. (Wikimedia Commons) The most famous examples have to be the instantly recognizable British Mark I through Mark V tanks. These bear a resemblance to (and likely inspired) the fictional Hatay Heavy Tank in the first Indiana Jones movie, Raiders of the Lost Ark. The final-form Mark V featured an innovative steering system and a powerful engine, but it had a nasty habit of poisoning the crew with exhaust fumes due to poor circulation. The French FT was tiny, but its rotating turret gave way to the modern tank concept. (Wikimedia Commons) When Britain began its tank development, France followed suit. According to the Imperial War Museums, the Renault FT was the first tank to feature a rotating gun turret. Other designs of the time relied on multiple gun positions to cover all fields of fire. When German tanks werent available, German soldiers had to capture British tanks. (Wikimedia Commons) Allied advancements caught the German army off-guard. German designers resorted to reverse-engineering destroyed enemy tanks or using capturing ones. As the Tank Museum reports, Germanys only original tank of World War I was the A7V. It was perhaps a superior design, but the long development phase resulted in only 20 being produced, and they didnt see combat until 1918. Schizer, this A7V tipped over! (Wikimedia Commons) Timeline has a great documentary on the tanks of World War I if you want to really nerd out. Everything thats Old Is New Again More than a century after the failed Holt hybrid tank, the U.S. military is revisiting the concept -- this time with much better technology. Oshkosh Defense is already building diesel-electric hybrid versions of the Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT) and Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement (MTVR). Clemson Universitys Deep Orange program is giving hybrid-tracked vehicles a second chance. (Clemson University) The Pentagon is also partnering with Clemson University to develop all kinds of new technology to support tracked vehicles with hybrid powertrains. Theyre ostensibly going to be used for disaster relief, but come on. Autonomous tanks are a bit overkill for a pallet of MREs or a pair of stretchers, dont you think? Then theres the possibility of ditching internal combustion altogether. GM Defense is advocating for an all-electric version of the nimble Infantry Squad Vehicle. If fielded, the prototype would give soldiers the speed of a Humvee or JLTV, with the ability to run surveillance systems and charge batteries from the vehicle without a big diesel engine idling in the background. When in motion, the vehicle would produce no more sound than a hushed whir of electric motors and tires rolling across the ground. It looks like Holt was onto something with its armored tractor hybrid contraption. It just got to the party about 110 years early. Want to Know More About the Military? Be sure to get the latest news about the U.S. military, as well as critical info about how to join and all the benefits of service. Subscribe to Military.com and receive customized updates delivered straight to your inbox. By STEVE KARNOWSKI Associated Press MINNEAPOLIS (AP) A man accused of long hiding a stolen pair of sequined ruby slippers that Judy Garland wore in The Wizard of Oz plans to plead guilty, his attorney confirmed Friday. The slippers were stolen in 2005 from the Judy Garland Museum in her hometown of Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Their whereabouts remained a mystery for nearly 13 years until the FBI recovered them in 2018. They fetched a record price for movie memorabilia when they were auctioned off for $32.5 million last month, according to Heritage Auctions, which conducted the sale. The buyer still has not been revealed. Jerry Hal Saliterman, now 77, of Crystal, Minnesota, was charged last March with theft of a major artwork and witness tampering. Hes expected to plead not guilty when hes arraigned Monday before a federal magistrate judge, a formality because magistrate judges cant accept guilty pleas in felony cases in Minnesota. But the district judge overseeing the case on Friday scheduled a change of plea hearing for Jan. 10. Salitermans attorney, John C. Brink, confirmed to The Associated Press that his client will change his plea then to guilty, but he declined to give details about any potential plea agreement. The U.S. Attorneys Office for North Dakota, which is prosecuting the case, declined to comment. The man who stole the slippers, Terry Jon Martin, now 77, pleaded guilty in 2023 to theft of a major artwork, admitting to what his attorney said was an attempt to pull off one last score after turning from a life of crime. He was sentenced last January to time served because of his poor health. The indictment against Saliterman says that from August 2005 to July 2018, he received, concealed, and disposed of an object of cultural heritage, and that Saliterman knew the slippers were stolen. Saliterman is also in poor health. He was in a wheelchair and on supplemental oxygen last March during his first court appearance. Authorities have not said how Martin and Saliterman might have been connected. Martin, who lives near Grand Rapids, said at his plea hearing in October 2023 that he hoped to sell what he thought were real rubies from the shoes. But a person who deals in stolen goods, known as a fence, informed him the rubies werent real, he said. Martin said he then got rid of the slippers, but declined to say how he did so. Garlands character, Dorothy, wore several pairs while filming the classic 1939 musical, but only four pairs are known to remain. Hollywood memorabilia collector Michael Shaw had loaned his pair to the museum before Martin stole them. Shaw eventually got them back, and had them auctioned last month. Garland was born Frances Gumm in 1922. She lived in Grand Rapids, about 200 miles (320 kilometers) north of Minneapolis, until she was 4 years old. She died in 1969. The Judy Garland Museum says it has the worlds largest collection of Garland and Wizard of Oz memorabilia. WASHINGTON -- An estimated 3 million people will receive an increase to their Social Security payments thanks to a bill that was signed into law Sunday by President Joe Biden. The Social Security Fairness Act removes a pair of provisions that limited Social Security payments for those who also receive pensions from their current or former employers, according to the Associated Press. The removal of the provisions -- known as the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset -- allows for current and former public employees, such as firefighters, police officers, teachers and others who work public service jobs to receive Social Security and retirement payments owed to them by their employer. The bill Im signing today is about a simple proposition: Americans who have worked hard all their life to earn an honest living should be able to retire with economic security and dignity thats the entire purpose of the Social Security system, Biden said. This is a big deal. In December 2023, the Congressional Research Service estimated 745,679 people had their benefits reduced by the Government Pension Offset, while roughly 2.1 million people were affected by the Windfall Elimination Provision. That represents about 4% of those who receive Social Security. Last year, the Congressional Budget Office estimated that by removing the Windfall Elimination Provision, it would increase monthly Social Security payments by $360 by December 2025. Removing the Government Pension Offset is expected to increase monthly benefits by an average of $700. The removal of the provisions will be retroactive to January 2024, meaning those impacted by the new law will also receive back pay for benefits missed over the last year. While advocates are happy to see the change, some Senate Republicans and other critics of the bill say it will only add to ongoing financial issues with Social Security. An estimated 72.5 million receive Social Security benefits and a report last year from the Social Security and Medicare trustees warned the programs trust fund will be unable to pay full benefits beginning in 2035, the AP reports. We caved to the pressure of the moment instead of doing this on a sustainable basis, said Sen. Thom Tillis, (R-N.C.) last month. MUSKEGON, MI - A Muskegon woman is sharing her story of completing a 12-mile hike up Colorados Pikes Peak Mountain, despite being legally blind. Jan Thom made the trek up 14,115 feet in two days this past August. I didnt really know what I was getting into, Thom said. I just knew the mountain was calling and I needed to go. The 66-year-old woman from Muskegon said she got the idea to hike a mountain, which she had never done before, while looking online. Thom has retinitis pigmentosa, a gradual deterioration of the retina, causing vision loss. She described the condition as having tunnel vision and only being able to focus on certain spots, which is difficult with movement. After experiencing a recent bout of more vision loss, Thom said she was in a depressive slump. I had taken on this mantra trying to get myself out of this depression - theres a line in a movie that says, Either get busy living or get busy dying. So, she made a get busy living list and started getting outside more, making snow angels and snowmen. After seeing the online pictures of people summiting a mountain, Thom added that to her list, too. She made a Facebook group - Blind Adventure - to follow her journey and started training by going on hikes, walking on country roads and up dunes with friends. In August, Thom flew to Colorado and joined a group hiking the two-day summit. They stayed one night at Barr Camp, a halfway point where hikers sleep on cots, camper style, and enjoy carb-heavy meals like pancakes and spaghetti. Jan Thom poses at the sign for Barr Trail on the summit of Pikes Peak in August 2024.Photo provided to MLive by Jan Thom We made really good time the first day, Thom said. It was perfect weather. Hiking, she described, was easier when following the feet of the person in front of her. I can still see my feet and the feet in front of me, so when Im following someone, Im not seeing anything else, Thom said. I was able to learn how to focus on the feet in front of me and do my best to put my feet where their feet were. She walked along rocky and steep terrain while hiking to the peak of the mountain. When I was standing still, I could look out, Thom said. She said her vision loss has actually made her a better photographer because shes able to focus specifically on a subject and ignore the noise around her. Jan Thom, middle, Terry Holmes, right, and Brandt Holmes, left, hike Pikes Peak Mountain in August 2024. Photo provided to MLive by Jan Thom Thom took a slight tumble three miles before reaching the top. Despite this, she opted to finish the hike. She ended up getting four stitches in the shape of a triangle. They looked like a mountain to me, so that was my badge of honor, Thom laughed. Stormy weather began right after she and her group reached Pikes Peak. The timing of everything was perfect, Thom said. When we got to the top of Pikes Peak and our feet stepped on to the man-made concrete, it began to sprinkle, and the wind whipped up and we had to get inside. We didnt get to stay up there long and enjoy 360 degrees of the view, we had to get out of there because a storm came up. After completing her goal, Thom realized what affected her most about the experience. It was so much more about the journey getting there and all the things I learned and the discipline of making a goal and keeping that goal to the best of my ability, she said. Thom is a mother to nine children. She got her associates degree in early childhood education after having her last child and became a preschool teacher. She also worked in womens ministry at her church. Jan Thom, right, hugs Brandt Holmes, left, after they reached the top of Pikes Peak Mountain. Holmes has a sign that reads: "Pikes Peak, 14,115 feet, August 22, 2024."Photo provided to MLive by Jan Thom Over the course of her life, her vision has deteriorated, until she was no longer able to drive. Reading is now hard. It really limits your life, Thom said. She wanted to share her story of going above and beyond her comfort zone to inspire others. When you use what happens to you to help other people, it brings great joy and healing to your own life, she said. No matter what your limitations are or whatever you put on yourself, if you dream it, you can do it. You may have to adapt and overcome but thats what you do your whole life, anyway. Life is really a blind adventure for everyone. Want more Muskegon-area news? Bookmark the local Muskegon news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Muskegon daily newsletter. BAY COUNTY, MI Bob Ross hopefuls can learn how to paint like the late beloved artist next month. From 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, Bay Countys Delta College will provide a workshop led by Ted Simpson, who brands himself as a certified Bob Ross instructor. Simpson has led previous mid-Michigan-based classes centered on the painting styles of Ross, the poofy-haired artist who hosted The Joy of Painting TV program on PBS from 1983 to 1994. The cost of the workshop at Delta College is $140, according to the schools website. The session will take place in the schools public media studio, 1961 Delta Road in Frankenlust Township. The painting workshop will begin at 6 p.m., the website stated. Snacks and a tour of the public broadcast station will be provided to participants from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. We will be learning to paint a landscape scene with oil painting methods, the session brochure stated. All paint supplies will be included. Please wear appropriate attire and bring an apron if desired. You do not need any experience to attend. Everyone is welcome, from first time painters to those who have painted before. There are 32 spots available in the workshop. Attendees can purchase a spot in the class via an online form available by clicking here. Want more Bay City- and Saginaw-area news? Bookmark the local Bay City and Saginaw news page or sign up for the free 3@3 daily newsletter for Bay City and Saginaw. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggans decision to ditch his Democratic affiliation and run as an independent for governor in 2026 is unconventional. The important question, however, is: Is the political landscape in Michigan ready for an independent candidate? Some experts say the political landscape is ripe for a third well-known choice on the ballot. If it was easy, everybody would do it. Its unusual because its very, very difficult, said David Dulio, a political science professor and director of the Center for Civic Engagement at Oakland University. But at the same time, if theres ever a time when it could be successful, its now. And I say that because theres dislike of both political parties. Theyre both underwater in terms of favorability with the American public. A large plurality of Americans say that theyre independents rather than affiliating with one of the two major parties. According to Pew Research Center data shared by Dulio, about three in 10 Americans hold unfavorable views of both the Republican and Democratic parties. The latest Gallup polling in November showed 42% of Americans identify as independent. The mayor credited with helping revitalize Detroit announced Dec. 4 he was ditching the Democratic Party and launching a bid for governor as an independent. Related: Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan to run for Michigan governor as independent Term-limited Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is unable to seek reelection in 2026, and Duggan is the first major candidate to announce a run for the seat. If successful, Duggan would be the first independent governor in Michigans history, according to the National Governors Association . The only two governors not affiliated with either major modern party were the states second and third governors, who were members of the Whig party. Duggan told MLive his decision to run as an independent is rooted in his wanting to improve the lives of Michiganders. He said the toxic partisan atmosphere and us vs. them politics in Lansing have been roadblocks to governors moving major legislation. There is an enormous sentiment in this country that people are being left out by the candidates picked by the parties, Duggan said. I think theres a significant mood in this country that we need leadership that gets people working together. While voters may be hungry for a competitive third choice beyond Democrats and Republicans in 2026, Duggans path to victory as an independent is more complicated but also easier in some ways. Money is the largest issue for any third party or independent candidate, and Roger Moiles, a senior affiliate professor of political science at Grand Valley State University, said Democrats are likely going to be pouring funds into the race to maintain the seat. The money is really the big thing, because theres a lot of money that will get pumped into that race, Moiles said. The Democratic party overall will want to hang on to Michigan, especially the potential helping to guide it, keep it more secure as a blue state. I think a lot of money will be pumped in there. But for a well-connected and well-known candidate like Duggan, organization not money might be the largest hurdle, Dulio said. Duggan has served as mayor of Michigans largest city since 2014. Typically its money, or the lack thereof, that plagues an independent or third party candidate, Dulio said. I dont think hell have trouble with that, actually. I think hell be able to raise money. Without a party attachment, infrastructure is missing, so the kind of organization that the state party would bring with it is absent. Hes going to have to build that out, whether its campaign offices, volunteer databases, that sort of thing. One benefit for Duggan is that a three-way race means itll take less votes to win. Hell also get to skip what is expected to be a crowded Democratic primary for governor. Some potential contenders include Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II, Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson and U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. A crowded field, though, wasnt a concern for Duggan. Im a guy who ran in an 83% Black city against Sheriff Benny Napoleon, the most popular Black public official down here in 2013, so I dont really worry about that, he said. I worry about how do you govern, and if I got elected as a Democratic governor every Republican would line up against anything I propose because they dont want the Democrats to get the credit. And I have no desire to be in a job if we cant do something. Weve been declining on student achievement, weve been declining on population for decades while the Republican-Democratic partisan fighting goes on. This was a desire on my part to change the direction of the state. Duggans flip from Democrat to independent does run the risk of alienating Democratic voters who may see Duggans move as a betrayal, Moiles said. Its not without its risks, Moiles said. There will be some Democrats who would never vote for somebody who is doing that, who made that decision to do it that way just because of a sense of loyalty to the party, to straight ticket voting. There are some folks that just would not even consider (voting for him), even though he is very, very much a Democratic politician. It certainly wont win him any favors among Democratic Party leadership in the state. I imagine theyre pissed, Dulio said. He is eschewing the opportunity to compete in a primary that wouldve been, still could be, crowded with quality candidates, including Mayor Duggan wouldve been part of that field. And now Democrats have to not only compete in the primary, but now they have to worry about another Democrat who, appears, is going to be on the ballot in the general election. Party labels also act as an information shortcut for voters unfamiliar with a candidate, sharing a general sense of their values and stances, Dulio said. While Duggan is popular in Detroit and well-known in Southeast Michigan, hell have to get his name and platform known across the state. Duggan skipping the primary also means he can avoid being pulled to the left or the right to appeal to primary voters and instead focus his entire campaign on a broad appeal. The seat hes held for the past 10 years is technically nonpartisan. A credible, independent candidate with the ability to raise money (all boxes that Mike Duggan checks) is a potentially seismic event, former Republican Lt. Gov. Brian Calley wrote on social media. It substantially changes the math for every other candidate thinking about a run. The regular course of running to the left or right in a primary and then running to the middle in general election gets complicated if theres a funded candidate working from the middle the whole time - with a ticket already punched to the general election. Calley went on to say having a political party behind a candidate comes with huge advantages. Duggan said his priorities are bettering education outcomes and student achievement, keeping young people in the state and making housing more plentiful and affordable. You didnt hear a lot of those conversations in the state legislative races in the last month, and Im going to try to make those issues center stage for the state, Duggan said. While the Republicans and Democrats are attacking each other, Im going to spend my time talking about what we need to do for Michigan. On the fourth anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021, storming of the U.S. Capitol, Democratic Michigan Sen. Gary Peters called on Americans to come together despite political differences to uphold democracy. While we remember the anniversary of a dark day in our history and those who lost their lives and were injured in the attack, we must also come together to reinforce the importance of our most treasured democratic traditions the right of the American people to choose their own leaders and the peaceful transfer of power, Peters said Monday, Jan. 6. Peters remarks come as he and others in Congress on Monday afternoon certified President-elect Donald Trumps election win without any violence in or around the Capitol. Related: Congress is ready to certify Trumps election win, but his Jan. 6 legacy hangs over the day The certification stood in dramatic contrast to the scene four years earlier when a mob of Trump supporters stormed the Capitol, causing senators and representatives to flee and delaying the certification of President Joe Bidens 2020 election win over Trump. One Trump supporter was killed by a police officer during the attack, and about 140 police officers were injured, according to the Democratic National Committee. According to the Associated Press, more than 1,250 people have pleaded guilty to or were convicted of crimes in connection to the Capitol riot. Four years ago, our nation witnessed a grave assault on the very foundation of our democracy the peaceful transition of power, Peters said. Thanks to the courage and dedication of Capitol Police, DC Metropolitan Police, National Guard, and others, that violent attack to overturn the will of the American people failed. As chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters led the Senates first bipartisan investigation into the Jan. 6 attack. The investigation resulted in a report on the security, planning and response failures that day. According to Peters' office, many of the recommendations in the report to better secure the Capitol have already been implemented. Peters also released a report identifying intelligence failures by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Homeland Security in the lead-up to the attack. While we remember the anniversary of a dark day in our history and those who lost their lives and were injured in the attack, we must also come together to reinforce the importance of our most treasured democratic traditions the right of the American people to choose their own leaders and the peaceful transfer of power, Peters said. While Trump didnt take Michigan during his failed reelection campaign in 2020, he won the state Nov. 5. He scored 2,816,636 votes to Vice President Kamala Harris 2,736,533 votes, a tally of 49.73% to 48.31%, according to the Michigan Department of State. Trump will be inaugurated as president on Jan. 20. The Mecosta County Board of Commissioners has rescinded support of a controversial electric vehicle battery plant near Big Rapids. A newly elected commission voted 5-2 during its Jan. 2 meeting to adopt a resolution to formally withdraw any endorsements, commitments and assistance for Gotion Inc.s $2.36 billion battery plant in Green Charter Township. The decision walks back a previous Feb. 16, 2023 resolution that expressed the countys support of the project thats expected to create 2,350 jobs in the region. The newest resolution says significant new information and developments have emerged concerning the project. Commissioners Jeff Jackson, Chris Zimmerman, Tom ONeil, Greg Adams and Gary Lambrix voted for the resolution while commissioners William Routley and Chris Jane voted against it. Related: Mystery group stirs up criticism of battery plants linked to China The Gotion plant has faced pushback from some in the community over concerns about its environmental impact and the companys ties to China. Gotion Inc. is an American-owned subsidiary of Chinese battery manufacturer Gotion High Tech. Michigan also awarded the company a $715 million incentive package including a 30-year tax break valued at $540 million and two grants totaling $175 million. Its become a political lightening rod with Republican Michigan lawmakers pushing for a closer federal review of the project. Republican U.S. Rep. John Moolenaar, a vocal opponent to the project who represents Mecosta County, said the boards resolution is yet another sign that the people of Mecosta County do not want Gotion. In 2023, voters also recalled Green Charter Township Board members and replaced them with anti-Gotion candidates. Gotion then sued Green Charter Township last year claiming the newly elected board tried to thwart the development plans by undoing the actions of the previous board. Related: Gotion wins court ruling to continue development of Michigan factory serving EV industry In response to the Mecosta County resolution, John Whetstone, a spokesperson for the company, said due to the ongoing legal proceedings with Green Charter Township, Gotion has chosen to temporarily pause public statements to respect the legal process and ensure fairness. However, this will not affect its ongoing commitment to advancing the project. We look forward to resuming communications and sharing more exciting updates once these matters are appropriately resolved, he said in a statement. Chuck Thelen, vice president of Gotion Inc. North American Manufacturing, did not respond to an email requesting comment. Natalia Grace was an orphan from Ukraine born with dwarfism. Her story made headlines when her first adoptive family accused her of lying about her age. Now 21, wanting to escape her third adoptive family, she faces turmoil again. The Curious Case of Natalia Grace: The Final Chapter premieres Monday, Jan. 6, at 9 p.m. ET on Investigation Discovery. Watch the new season for free with a trial from Philo. About the show: After uncovering her past trauma on The Curious Case of Natalia Grace, the 21-year-old woman might be in store for more. The Curious Case of Natalia Grace: The Final Chapter follows Natalia, and Nicole and Vince DePaul, who want to help her. They rescue her from the Manses, Natalias most-recent adoptive family, but her apparent loyalty to them shocks the DePauls. With money concerns, tax issues and strained bonds, the DePauls must decide whether to help Natalia or succumb to chaos. In tonights premiere, Broken Bonds, Natalia is rescued from her controlling parents. While free, she battles conflicting emotions. Tune in tonight, Jan. 6, at 9/8c on ID to watch. The Curious Case of Natalia Grace: The Final Chapter Trailer: Where to watch Investigation Discovery: $28/month, ditch cable and unlock 70+ channels of reality TV, movies, and more, live and on-demand. Philo (start free trial) - For, ditch cable and unlockof reality TV, movies, and more, live and on-demand. Click here to watch. A NASA photographer who captured a photo of the awe-inducing 2024 eclipse from a Midwest location is having his work hailed as among the best images of 2024, the space agency said. The photo by Joel Kowsky was featured recently on NASAs Image of the Day photo feed. Heres how the agencys blog described it: NASA photographer Joel Kowsky captured this image of the Monday, April 8, 2024, total solar eclipse from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis, Indiana. The total solar eclipse swept across a narrow portion of the North American continent from Mexicos Pacific coast to the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada. NASA noted its headquarters' photo team selected Kowskys eclipse images as one of the best photos of 2024. Want to see more of the best? Check NASAs Flickr account here. Crayfish harvested in C China's Hubei in winter People's Daily Online) 16:26, January 06, 2025 Photo shows two farmers in a crayfish breeding base in Houhu Management Zone, Qianjiang city, central China's Hubei Province. (People's Daily Online/Zhang Juan) In central China's Hubei Province, the winter crayfish harvest season is in progress thanks to breakthroughs in winter crayfish farming methods. At a farming base in Houhu Management Zone, Qianjiang city of Hubei, farmers were busy bringing in their winter catch. "Look at this one! It's big, with just the right shell texture, firm and plump meatit's bound to be delicious," said farmer Huang Liqiang as he showed a freshly caught crayfish. "Now we can sell crayfish even in winter," Huang said with a smile. Traditionally, winter is an off-season period for crayfish farming. But now crayfish cultivation is also possible in cold months. According to Yang Yungang, deputy head of the Qianjiang Crayfish Development and Promotion Center, the process begins with releasing baby crayfish in autumn, and by winter, they are ready for harvest. "The winter crayfish from Qianjiang represents a seasonal advantage," said Yang. Yang added that during summer, crayfish were sold for less than 40 yuan (about $5.48) per kilogram in the market. But during winter and early spring, larger ones are priced at over 100 yuan per kilogram. "During the Spring Festival in particular, market demand exceeds supply." The Hubei Crayfish Industry Technology Research Institute, together with seven research institutions including the Institute of Hydrobiology (IHB) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, leveraged heat retention of pond bottoms during autumn and winter and combined those pond bottoms with aquatic plants suitable for crayfish farming, blazing a trail of winter crayfish farming. Intensive pond farming of crayfish throughout the year in Qianjiang covers an area of 14,000 mu (about 933.33 hectares). In 2024, the winter crayfish farming model covered an area of 300 mu in Houhu. "The scale will be expanded in 2025," said Yang. This new mode provides aquaculture households with an extra income of 5,000 yuan per mu in winter on average. Farmers harvest crayfish in a crayfish breeding base in Houhu Management Zone, Qianjiang city, central China's Hubei Province. (People's Daily Online/Zhang Juan) Farmers harvest crayfish in a crayfish breeding base in Houhu Management Zone, Qianjiang city, central China's Hubei Province. (People's Daily Online/Zhang Juan) Farmers harvest crayfish in a crayfish breeding base in Houhu Management Zone, Qianjiang city, central China's Hubei Province. (People's Daily Online/Zhang Juan) (Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Hongyu) The military government in Myanmar, which seized power in a coup in February 2021, has enacted a new cybersecurity law which imposes wide-ranging controls on the flow of information. The measures were announced last Friday in state-run newspapers, though reports suggest they came into effect two days earlier. The military government has made several previous attempts to restrict online traffic. The AP news service says that users of most free VPN services found themselves unable to connect in May last year, and some people whose phones were found to have VPN apps were fined and detained. Around that time the Transport and Communications Ministry told telecom companies and internet service providers that access to Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter, WhatsApp and VPN services was banned. There have also been actions to block websites and apps at the network level, keeping end users from accessing content the army doesnt want them to see. Technology from Myanmar's allies China and Russia is used for monitoring and censorship purposes. The new law calls for sanctions, including warnings, fines, suspensions blacklisting and potentially closure for digital platform service providers who fail to comply with the rules. Unauthorised VPN provision could mean imprisonment or a fine as well as seizure of equipment. The new law also targets anyone who builds an online gambling system without obtaining official permission. A number of other Asian nations have also proposed or enacted cybersecurity laws with restrictive aspects. As we reported at the time, an internet law that gives the government power to regulate online content took effect in Vietnam late last year. As in Vietnam, the new law in Myanmar requires digital platform service providers to keep the names and other personal data and records of their users in this case for up to three years and to disclose them to the authorities if asked. Resistance to the Myanmar military has relied heavily on social media. The Telegram chat and social networking app is reportedly particularly active. The military has full control of less than a quarter of Myanmar's territory, according to a BBC World Service investigation late last year. Saurav Pandey USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept From Devaa to Game Changer: List of upcoming films releasing this year M Snehanjali USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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Rahman: From Roja to Grammy and Oscars, a timeline of his milestone achievements Palak Vij USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Philippines central bank, The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) says it has lifted its moratorium on new electronic money issuers from non-bank financial institutions (EMI-NBFI). The move is said to be aimed at enhancing digital payments in the country. However, there are still a number of conditions that need to be met before a would-be NBFI can get a licence. Firstly, says the Electronic Payments International news service, applicants are advised to submit proposals that are backed by market research and data-driven analysis. These applications have to clearly articulate the intended market and provide evidence-based insights into the business model and target demographic, thereby strengthening their value proposition within the financial sector. Other conditions include standard criteria such as ownership transparency, shareholder suitability, and the fitness and propriety of directors and senior management. Applicants must, of course, demonstrate that they have adequate capital and that they have implemented proper risk management systems. In addition applications will favour innovative business models that target unserved markets and leverage new technologies. The moratorium, initially established in November 2021 for a two-year period, was then extended to 15 December 2024. It has now expired. BSP deputy governor Mamerto Tangonan is quoted by news services as saying: The BSPs decision to lift the moratorium aims to promote digital payments, enhance financial inclusion, and foster innovation that could serve a wider segment of the market. To date, licences have reportedly been offered to 42 EMI-NBFIs and 27 EMI-banks. The licensed entities offer electronic money transfer, remittance services, and other digital financial services. Manish Malhotra makes his stylish debut at Golden Globes Awards 2025 in black tuxedo, see pics Vaishnavi Gavankar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept Nicki Minaj sued for alleged assault and battery by former manager Brandon Garrett M Snehanjali USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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I Accept Tamil actor Vishals hands shaking at upcoming film Madha Gaja Raja's pre-release event, fans get worried about the actors health M Snehanjali USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Vaishnavi Gavankar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept Arishaa Izaj USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Aero India's next edition in February, foreign tie ups and Make in India on agenda Rohit Singh USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept Bengaluru civic body under lens for alleged copy-paste job in Rs 9.5 crore tunnel road DPR prepared by consultant Christin Mathew Philip is an Assistant editor at moneycontrol.com. Based in Bengaluru, he writes on mobility, infrastructure and start-ups. He is a Ramnath Goenka excellence in journalism awardee. You can find him on Twitter here: twitter.com/ChristinMP_ Christin Mathew Philip USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Ishaan Gera USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Meghna Mittal Deputy News Editor at Moneycontrol. Meghna has experience across television, print, online and wire media. She has been covering the Indian economy, monetary and fiscal policies, Finance and Trade ministries. She tweets at @Meghnamittal23 Contact: meghna.mittal@nw18.com Tamal Nandi USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Nokia announced on Friday it has completed the selloff of its subsea cable unit, Alcatel Submarine Networks (ASN), to the French government in order to focus on its core network infrastructure business. Nokia first announced the deal to sell ASN to Frances Agence des participations de l'Etat in June 2024 at an enterprise value of EUR350 million (around US$374 million at the time). Nokia said that while ASN was a successful unit, it was also a non-core business. The same month, Nokia struck a deal to buy out optical networking firm Infinera at an enterprise value of US$ 2.3 billion to beef up its optical portfolio as it realigned its Network Infrastructure Business Group around fixed networks, IP networks and optical networks. Infinera shareholders approved the deal in October 2024. Nokia has accounted for ASN as a discontinued operation since the second quarter of 2024, and has held a 20% stake in the business with board representation during the transition process. Nokia said the ASN transaction was completed on 31 December. The deal has been controversial in France, as it effectively nationalises ASN. Moreover, according to Le Monde, the EUR350 million transaction value includes EUR250 million in debt. In a statement on Friday, Nokia said ASN grew significantly under its watch and is well positioned to continue benefiting from the growth of the large and attractive subsea cables market. ASN has also been looking to augment its business by adding climate-change monitoring tech to subsea cables. To that end, ASN said in September it is collaborating with seismic instrumentation company Nanometrics and environmental monitoring firm RBR. The first project under that collaboration is the Tamtam subsea cable between Vanuatu and New Caledonia, which ASN is deploying under a contract with Vanuatu-based Prima signed in January 2024. That cable will be fitted with nodes that enable real-time monitoring of seismic activities and efficient tsunami detection. Khushi Keswani USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept Daily Voice: Govt to keep focussing on capacity enhancement of economy than providing ephemeral support to consumption in Union Budget, says Mirae's Gaurav Misra Sunil Matkar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Zoya Springwala USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept Reality of lower profit growth getting priced in finally; large-caps offer better risk-reward: Prashant Jain Anishaa Kumar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Stocks to Watch Today: ITC, HDFC Bank, Bajaj Finance, AU SFB, Nykaa, HG Infra, Brigade Enterprises, NTPC Green, Marico, Bank of Baroda in focus on 6 January Sunil Matkar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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I Accept Arunachal Pradesh to implement law passed in 1978: What is Freedom of Religion Act? Parimal Peeyush USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Atishi changed her father, says Delhi BJP's Ramesh Bidhuri after sexist remark on Priyanka Priyanjali Ghose USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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I Accept Durian-themed restaurants, ranging from buffets and hotpots to drinks and desserts, have been mushrooming in Chinese cities as the durian craze extends beyond just fresh fruit. The catering industry in China is jumping on the durian bandwagon, offering "everything + durian" promotions to cash in on the fruit's growing popularity among young consumers, the South China Morning Post reported. A restaurant in Shenzhen, Chinas Guangdong Province, has gone viral with a buffet offering over 200 durian-inspired dishes, from porridge to pancakes and cakes, for 199 yuan (US$27.26) per person Su Yuru, a white-collar worker in Shenzhen, said durians are sweet and filling, making it difficult to eat 199 yuan's worth. "But my friends and I are eager to try." "I often buy a durian to share with my family on weekends, usually priced at about 150 yuan, and durian is also a regular at local companies afternoon teas and annual parties for their employees." Topics related to durian-themed food, like "durian barbecue" and "durian buffet," have racked up over 1.24 billion views on Douyin, as TikTok is known in China. Despite the middle class tightening their belts, their craving for durian has increased, extending beyond fresh fruit to include durian-infused food and beverages. Sales of durian-flavored cakes by Guangxi Xuan Ma Food, a producer of packaged snacks and baked goods, surged from 800,000 yuan in 2019, when they were launched, to over 10 million yuan in 2023. The fruit has even become a trendy addition to milk tea, a popular beverage in China. "Milk tea with durian pulp is our hottest-selling product," Jariya Unthong, the Thai owner of a street stall selling Thai milk tea in Nanning, the capital of the Guangxi region, told Xinhua News Agency. Hotpots and chicken soups featuring durian introduced by upscale restaurants in the region have also gained widespread popularity. Visitors view durian products from Vietnam at the 21st China-Asean Expo in Nanning, China, on Sept. 28, 2024. Photo by NurPhoto via Reuters To satisfy its growing appetite for the fruit, China, the worlds largest durian consumer, has been ramping up imports, mostly from a host of Southeast Asian suppliers. The market purchased 1.38 million tons of durians for $6.2 billion in the first nine months of 2024, up 11% in volume and a 5.6% rise in value from a year ago, according to Vietnam Agriculture News, which cited Chinese customs data. Of these, Thailand accounted for nearly 755,000 tons, or 54.7%, of the fruit worth $3.73 billion while Vietnam shipped 618,000 tons worth $2.45 billion. While Thailand pulled ahead, its figures marked year-on-year declines of 14.1% in volume and 13.3% in value, while Vietnams rose 72.2% in volume and 57.3% in value. To boost its competitiveness, Thailands Digital Economy Promotion Agency launched project One Tambon, One Digital in November that aims to enhance durian farmers' productivity, strengthen consumer trust in Thai durians, and promote high-value products on a global scale, particularly amid competition from China and nearby nations, the Bangkok Post reported. China also imports fresh durians from Malaysia and the Philippines, though in relatively small volumes. The Philippines supplied 6,260 tons in the first three quarters, while Malaysia shipped 215 tons valued at $3.65 million between June, when it received approval for fresh durian exports, and September. But even as current suppliers make efforts to boost durian shipments, the Chinese market still has plenty of room for growth as, according to a report by Beijing-based consultancy Guanyan Tianxia, less than one in 100 Chinese people has tasted durian. The untapped potential is drawing new players into the market, including Indonesia, which has been traditionally exporting the fruit as paste to China. The country is ramping up efforts to ship fresh durians to China, its coordinating minister for food affairs, Zulkifli Hasan, said last month. Laos, whose durian industry has only been gaining traction recently, is also vying for a share of the Chinese durian market, Nikkei Asia reported in late October. Bounchanh Kombounyasith, director general of the countrys Department of Agriculture, said market access documents were being prepared and Lao durians will soon be exported to China. Tamal Nandi USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Chhabi Kala USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept Don't allow foreigners to leave India, if presence needed in criminal case: Supreme Court 101Reporters USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept 200 deceived by crypto mining scam in Vietnam via Singapore website Tran Minh Quang (L) seen at a police station. Photo by VnExpress/Thai Ha Over 200 people have fallen victim to a crypto mining scam in southern Vietnam by submitting VND4 billion (US$157,300) to a fraudulent platform. Tran Minh Quang, 41, and three other individuals were arrested Saturday for the investigation of alleged fraudulent appropriation of assets in Dong Nai Province, which borders HCMC. The police accused these individuals of developing fraudulent website BitMiner, with a Singapore domain, to lure victims to buy fake cryptocurrency Bincoin. The group provided false advertisement to deceive users that they had a company based in Dubai. They recruited many collaborators by promising substantial profits. These collaborators were given materials and manipulated trading accounts to deceive investors. Investors were offered several crypto mining packages with different speeds, such as Red Diamond, Blue Diamond, Diamond Gold, Black Diamond and Green Diamond. They were invited to many forums to be educated on crypto mining using AI and new technologies. All of their investment, however, went to wallets controlled by Quang and his accomplices. Interdependencies cannot be weaponised: US NSA Jake Sullivan on China's approach to critical tech Tamal Nandi USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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I Accept January 06, 2025 / 18:54 IST "Health experts have clarified that HMPV is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001 and it has been circulating in the entire world since many years," JP Nadda said. "HMPV spreads through air, by way of respiration. This can affect persons of all age groups. The virus spreads more during the winter and the early spring months. On recent reports, the cases of HMPV in China, the Health Ministry, the ICMR and the National Centre for Disease Control are keeping a close watch on the situation in China as well as in the neighbouring countries. WHO has taken cognisance of the situation and will share its report shortly with us." 'Was proposed for Padma Awards in 2010 by UPA', reveals Rajeev Chandrashekar as Soros' recognition sparks controversy Manjiri Patil USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Vietnam receives 17.6 million foreign tourists in 2024, half of Thailand's total Foreign tourists at a restaurant in Hue, December 2024. Photo by Van An Vietnam welcomed 17.58 million foreign tourists in 2024, a 39.5% increase year-on-year and reaching 97.6% of pre-Covid levels, but the figure remains just half of Thailand's figure for the year. South Korea was Vietnam's largest source of visitors, with 4.5 million arrivals, up 27% year-on-year. It was followed by mainland China with 3.73 million visitors, Taiwan (1.28 million), the U.S. (779,000), and Japan (711,000), according to the General Statistics Office. Other key markets include India (501,000), Malaysia (495,383), Australia (490,880), Cambodia (474,000), and Thailand (418,054). In December alone, Vietnam recorded its highest monthly total of the year, welcoming 1.75 million foreign visitors. Despite nearing its target of 18 million, Vietnam's foreign tourist numbers were significantly lower than other Southeast Asian countries. Thailand, where tourism plays a critical role in the economy, recorded over 35 million foreign arrivals in 2024, while Malaysia welcomed over 22.5 million as of November. Vietnam aims to attract 23 million foreign tourists in 2025, a 31% increase from 2024's total. Why Bangladesh is revisiting the 1971 Liberation War in textbooks Parimal Peeyush USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Lokendra Sharma is a Research Analyst with the High-Tech Geopolitics Programme at the Takshashila Institution. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication. Namrata Agarwal USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Underlying the Narayana Guru controversy is the Lefts fight to hold on to its political base in Kerala Namrata Agarwal USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Why India needs a broader and more informed debate on cross-border data transfer Arun Anand has authored two books on the RSS. His X handle is @ArunAnandLive. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication. Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Namrata Agarwal USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Elon Musk slams UK PM Keir Starmer on grooming gang scandal, here's what you need to know Arishaa Izaj USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept Arindam Roy USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Putin will start turning Moldova away from Europe, you will see in April what will happen Zelenskyy Photo: https://t.me/V_Zelenskiy_official Vladimir Putin will turn Moldova away from Europe, and will now fight for control of the country's parliament, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said. "He will now fight for the Parliament of Moldova. This is his second step. You will see in April what will happen. He will start turning Moldova away from Europe, even though they want to go there. He doesn't care," Zelenskyy said in an interview with Lex Fridman, published on the YouTube channel of the Presidents Office of Ukraine on Sunday. According to the president, Putin will do everything to regain his influence where the influence of the Soviet Union was. Parimal Peeyush USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept UK's Keir Starmer says he has confidence in minister named in Bangladesh probe 101Reporters USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept US should 'liberate Britain' from 'tyrannical govt', asks Elon Musk in X poll. Here's how people voted Arishaa Izaj USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Automotive software platform Tekion opens new office in Bengaluru; to increase headcount by over 300 Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Reshab Shaw USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Danish Khan is the editor of Technology and Telecom. He was previously with the Economic Times and has tracked the sector for 13 years. Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Danish Khan USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Aihik Sur USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Samsung and LG are adding the Microsoft Copilot AI tool to their 2025 TV lineup, heres how it works Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Shaurya Shubham USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Photo: National Guard On Monday night, Ukrainian defenders shot down two X-59 aviation missiles and 79 Shahed-type attack UAVs, as well as other types of drones, the AFU Air Force reported on the Telegram channel. "As of 09:00, the downing of two X-59 guided aviation missiles and 79 Shahed-type attack UAVs and other types of drones in Mykolaiv, Poltava, Sumy, Kharkiv, Kyiv, Chernihiv, Cherkasy, Dnipropetrovsk, Zhytomyr, Kirovohrad and Vinnytsia regions has been confirmed. No hits were recorded," the report says. In addition, 49 enemy drone simulators were locally lost (without negative consequences). "Due to the downing of enemy drones, there is damage to buildings of enterprises, institutions and private homes in Chernihiv, Sumy, Cherkasy, Poltava and Kyiv regions. According to preliminary information, there are no casualties," the Air Forces said. As noted, from 18:00 on January 5, the enemy attacked with two X-59 guided aircraft missiles from the southern direction and 128 Shahed-type attack UAVs and various types of simulator drones from Bryansk, Millerovo, Orel, Kursk, Primorsko-Akhtarsk (RF). The air attack was repelled by aviation, anti-aircraft missile forces, electronic warfare units, mobile fire groups of the Air Force and the Defense Forces of Ukraine. "As of 08:30, new groups of enemy UAVs are entering from the north. Take care of yourself, observe the safety requirements," the Air Force urged. Priyanka Roshan USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept The Asset Recovery and Management Agency (ARMA) has signed an agreement with Ukraine's State Space Agency, granting access to Earth remote sensing data. ARMA's head, Olena Duma, shared the news on Telegram. "This will allow us to access high-quality images of the assets managed by ARMA both current and historical," Duma wrote. She noted that this technology will also benefit asset managers, enabling them to remotely inspect properties before participating in tenders. "I always say: ARMA will find criminal assets anywhere in the world. Now, this is not just a statement we'll literally be able to track them from space! Quickly, accurately, and without restrictions. Theres nowhere left for criminals to hide their loot," Duma said. Azerbaijan demands punishment for those to blame for the crash of the of the Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) plane, which was en route from Baku to Grozny and crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev said. "I can say with confidence that the blame for the death of Azerbaijani citizens in this crash rests with representatives of the Russian Federation. And we demand justice, we demand punishment for those to blame, we demand full transparency and humane behavior," Aliyev said at a Monday meeting with the families of the crewmembers who died in the crash and the surviving flight attendants. The flight recorders from the plane are now being decoded, he said. "I am certain that we will learn a tentative result shortly, and everything will fall into its place, the entire picture of the tragedy will become known. And that, naturally, will be important for the full investigation into this tragedy and the punishment of those to blame for it," the president said. An Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) Embraer, en route from Baku to Grozny, crashed near Aktau on December 25. It was carrying 67 people, including five crewmembers. Of that number, 42 were citizens of Azerbaijan, 16 of Russia, six of Kazakhstan, and three of Kyrgyzstan. The crash killed 38 people. Kazakhstan sent the flight recorders from the Azerbaijani plane to the Brazilian Center for Investigation and Prevention of Aeronautical Accidents (CENIPA) for decoding on December 30. The decoding of the flight recorders began in Brazil on January 3. President Biden delivered remarks regarding the New Years Day attack in New Orleans. Biden was Mondays KMVL Newsmaker of the Day. Here are his words: I know I can speak for all Americans when I say our hearts are with the people in New Orleans after the despicable attack that occurred in the early morning hours. To all the families of those who were killed, to all those who were injured, to all the people in New Orleans who are grieving today, I want you to know I grieve with you. Our nation grieves with you. Were going to stand with you as you mourn and as you heal in the weeks to come. I want to thank our brave first responders and law enforcement personnel who stopped the attacker in his tracks before he could kill or injure even more people. And I want to thank you to everyone at the Department of the Homeland Security, the Department of Justice, including the FBI, for working nonstop to investigate this heinous act. The FBI is leading the investigation to determine what happened, why it happened, and whether there is any continuing threat to public safety. Heres what we know so far. The FBI has reported to me the killer was an American citizen, born in Texas. He served in the United States Army on active duty for many years. He also served in the Army Reserve until a few years ago. The FBI also reported to me that mere hours before the attack, he posted videos on social media indicating that he was inspired by ISIS, expressing a desire to kill a desire to kill. The ISIS flag was found in his vehicle, which he rented to conduct this attack. Possible explosives were found in the vehicle as well, and more explosives were near were found nearby. The situation is very fluid, and the investigation is at a preliminary stage. And the fact is that right now excuse me there you go the law enforcement and intelligence community are continuing to look for any connections, associations, or coconspirators. We have nothing additional to report at this time. The investigation is continuing to be active, and no one should jump to conclusions. Ive directed my attorney general, the FBI director, the secretary of Homeland Security, the head of the National Counterintelli- -terrorism Center, and the intelligence community to work on this intensively until we have a full and complete information. And once we have that information, I will share that information as soon as I we can confirm it. Additionally, were tracking the explosion of a Cybertruck outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas. Law enforcement and the intelligence community are investigating this as well, including whether theres any possible connection with the attack in New Orleans. Thus far, theres nothing to report on that score at this time. I directed my team to make sure every resource every resource is made available to federal, state, and local law enforcement to complete the investigation in New Orleans quickly and to make sure theres no remaining threat to the American people. And well we will support the people in New Orleans as they begin the hard work of healing. New Orleans is a place unlike any other place in the world. Its a city full of charm and joy. So many people around the world love New Orleans because of its history, its culture, and, above all, its people. So, I know, while this person committed a terrible assault on the city, the spirit of our New Orleans will never, never, never be defeated. It always will shine forth. Weve seen that time and time again throughout its history, and I know well see it again in the days and weeks ahead. May God bless the people in New Orleans. May our God bless our police and our first responders. And may God protect our troops. And well keep you fully, contemporaneously informed. Thank you. Sonora City Hall View Photo Sonora, CA The Sonora City Council will vote on items aimed at reducing shopping cart theft, lying on sidewalks, and bathing in public restrooms. The city had earlier passed an ordinance prohibiting camping in public spaces, but there were legal issues that prevented its enforcement. However, the US Supreme Court recently overturned a decision in Boise, Idaho, which essentially now allows the enforcement of camping bans in public spaces. In addition to the citys existing rules (camping restrictions), the city council will vote this evening on expanding the ordinance to address other matters. They include sitting or lying on any public sidewalks in the city (currently there are only restrictions for the downtown district), prohibiting bathing or washing clothes in public restrooms or fountains, and cracking down on shopping cart theft. The latter would place new requirements on businesses that provide shopping carts. It includes requiring identification on all carts, installing removal warning signs, and submitting an abandoned cart prevention plan to the city. There would be exemptions for shops (from submitting a plan) that have under 15 carts or are willing to install a security system that causes the wheels to lock when they move past an established perimeter. The city would also be able to impose penalties to recover the costs related to shopping cart recovery. The ordinance changes will be discussed at todays meeting starting at 5 pm. Calaveras Also To Declare January 9 As County Holiday San Andreas, CA In response to President Joe Bidens declaration of January 9, 2025 as a National Day of Mourning for late President Jimmy Carter, the Calaveras County Board of Supervisors are planning to close county offices on that day. The board of supervisors will hold a special meeting at 3 pm on Tuesday to make it official. County emergency services would still be available. Neighboring Tuolumne County has also announced that county government offices will be closed this Thursday (January 9). Tuesdays special Calaveras County Board of Supervisors meeting will held in the board meeting room at 891 Mountain Ranch Road in San Andreas. The New Year period witnessed a massive influx of Zimbabweans into South Africa, with authorities estimating that 20,000 crossed the border illegally in the first three days of 2025 alone. This surge follows the Christmas and New Year holidays, during which many Zimbabweans who reside and work in South Africa returned home to visit family. The situation has created significant challenges for border control officials, highlighting the ongoing pressure on South Africas immigration system and the complex realities of cross-border migration between Zimbabwe and South Africa. While over 10,000 Zimbabweans officially passed through the Beitbridge Border Post the busiest land port in Southern Africa between January 1st and 4th, South African broadcaster Newsroom Afrika reported that a significantly larger number entered the country illegally. This mass movement reflects the dire economic situation in Zimbabwe, where many are seeking better opportunities in neighbouring countries. South Africa is home to an estimated two million Zimbabweans, many of whom are seeking economic relief from Zimbabwes struggling economy. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reports that over half of these Zimbabweans entered South Africa without proper documentation. This is largely due to the high cost of obtaining necessary documents in Zimbabwe. A passport costs US$150, a significant sum for the average Zimbabwean, whose earnings range from US$150 to US$300. For some, the risks of illegal immigration to South Africa outweigh the hardships of remaining in Zimbabwe, where unemployment is rampant. Its better to go and suffer in South Africa running away from the authorities because we dont have proper immigrant documents than to suffer in this country which has no job opportunities for us as the youths, one anonymous illegal immigrant told the news crew. He further explained his situation: I moved to South Africa early last year and there is little progress in my life than the past three years I was home searching for employment ever since I graduated in 2019. The situation is further complicated by South Africas efforts to address illegal immigration, which is believed to contribute to high crime rates and unemployment. Last year, the South African Home Affairs department re-established the Immigration Advisory Board, tasked with overseeing the employment of undocumented migrants and advising on the future of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP). The ZEP, a special waiver allowing Zimbabwean migrants to work and conduct business in South Africa, is set to expire in November 2025, adding to the pressure on Zimbabweans already in the country. The consequences of illegal entry into South Africa are severe. Undocumented migrants risk six months imprisonment or deportation if apprehended. Dr Michael Masiapato, Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), confirmed that his team, during an operation at Beitbridge on January 4th, arrested over 120 illegal immigrants. He also noted that many more were intercepted attempting to cross the Limpopo River. We deployed drones and we have been able to arrest more than 120 people who tried to enter the country illegally, he stated. He further revealed that of the approximately 20,000 people crossing the border on January 4th, 3,000 were entering Zimbabwe, many of them pedestrians. This highlights the scale of the movement and the challenges faced by border authorities in managing the flow of people. The BMA has confirmed that preparations are in place to manage the expected influx of travellers returning to South Africa. Breaking News via Email Related Zimbabwe Latest News Pin Share Share 0 Shares The international working group on sanctions against the Russian Federation, headed by head of the President's Office of Ukraine Andriy Yermak and director of the Freeman-Spogli Institute for International Studies (FSI), Ambassador Michael McFaul, has done its utmost to ensure that even more ships of the shadow fleet of the Russian Federation are subject to sanctions; positive decisions are expected, head of the President's Office of Ukraine Andriy Yermak. "The 'Shadow Fleet of Russia' is not only a tool for circumventing sanctions, but also a means for sabotage against NATO. The McFaul-Yermak sanctions group has done its utmost to ensure that even more ships of the shadow fleet are subject to sanctions. We expect positive decisions," Yermak wrote on the Telegram channel on Monday. A tragic incident in Masvingo has left a community mourning after a husband murdered his wife before taking his own life. Police are investigating the case as a murder-suicide. Commissioner Paul Nyathi, Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) national spokesperson, confirmed the details: Police in Basera are investigating circumstances surrounding a case of murder and suicide which occurred at Utete village, Chitsa, Gutu, Masvingo. On December 2, 2025, Raramai Dhewa (40) was found dead with multiple injuries all over the body in a kitchen hut. A blood-stained log was recovered at the scene. The victims husband, Fungai Chitsale (46), was later discovered dead in their home. The victims husbandwas later found dead, hanging from a roof truss with a nylon rope in a two-bed roomed house, Commissioner Nyathi added. The circumstances surrounding the dispute that led to this tragic outcome are currently under investigation. The discovery of a blood-stained log at the scene suggests a brutal attack. The double tragedy has shaken the community, leaving family and friends grappling with the loss. In a separate incident, police in Filabusi are pursuing six suspects accused of murdering a village bully. The suspects, identified as Zenzo Moyo (32), Ayanda Moyo (30), Nqobizita Moyo (34), Senly Moyo (29), Paul Ndlovu (36), and Donald Sibanda (30), are wanted in connection with the death of Talent Hlongwane (29). The murder occurred on December 3, 2025, at Village 16 B, Nkankezi. The suspects allegedly attacked Hlongwane with spears, axes, and machetes, accusing him of bullying behaviour within the community. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of violence and vigilantism in some rural communities. The ZRP is appealing to the public for any information that could assist in apprehending the suspects. Breaking News via Email Related Zimbabwe Latest News Pin Share Share 0 Shares By Lambert Strether of Corrente. Patient readers, this is a travel day for me and hence an Open Thread. Talk amongst yourselves! lambert Bird Song of the Day At IM Docs suggestion Gray Catbird, Indian Springs Wildlife Management Area; along Blairs Valley Road, Washington, Maryland, United States. Adult Gray Catbird singing from roadside vegetation. No doubt sitting in the catbird seat! * * * I did think this was remarkable, though. From Old School blogger Jon Schwarz (the image duplicates but the text does not): The DOGE dorks & their penumbra are, as you'd expect, stupendously ignorant, drunk with power, and could be extremely dangerous. The good news is they're so out of their minds that it seems unlikely they'll manage to do huge damage. https://t.co/H6fAF7MSAn by @vhmth pic.twitter.com/u7b5T2AuGy Jon Schwarz (@schwarz) January 5, 2025 Apparently the entity known to us as DOGE has some quasi-formal existence somewhere, but as what? As in Hey, kids, lets put on a show!? Or more? * * * Contact information for plants: Readers, feel free to contact me at lambert [UNDERSCORE] strether [DOT] corrente [AT] yahoo [DOT] com, to (a) find out how to send me a check if you are allergic to PayPal and (b) to find out how to send me images of plants. Vegetables are fine! Fungi, lichen, and coral are deemed to be honorary plants! If you want your handle to appear as a credit, please place it at the start of your mail in parentheses: (thus). Otherwise, I will anonymize by using your initials. See the previous Water Cooler (with plant) here. From Angie Neer: Angie Neer writes: Im taking the liberty of attaching a photo, because the Water Cooler plants have long been a highlight of my days. This one was shot about 45 years ago, on Tri-X film that I developed myself in the darkroom of my high school. (The same public school where I learned typesetting with real lead type!) I hope it expresses the mood of seeing a friend receding into a future thats perhaps mysterious, but lush with beautiful possibility. * * * Readers: Water Cooler is a standalone entity not covered by the annual NC fundraiser. Material here is Lamberts, and does not express the views of the Naked Capitalism site. If you see a link you especially like, or an item you wouldnt see anywhere else, please do not hesitate to express your appreciation in tangible form. Remember, a tip jar is for tipping! Regular positive feedback both makes me feel good and lets me know Im on the right track with coverage. When I get no donations for three or four days I get worried. More tangibly, a constant trickle of donations helps me with expenses, and I factor in that trickle when setting fundraising goals: Here is the screen that will appear, which I have helpfully annotated: If you hate PayPal, you can email me at lambert [UNDERSCORE] strether [DOT] corrente [AT] yahoo [DOT] com, and I will give you directions on how to send a check. Thank you! Conor here: While access to abortion gets the lions share of attention from the Dem-leaning Resistance crowd, the lack of rural health care in general, including maternal care, gets far less attention. The following piece from KFF Health News focuses on rural Oregon, but the story is the same across the country. A recent piece from the Arizona Center for Investigative Reporting, Gaps in mental health training, rural access to care compound Arizonas maternal mortality crisis, highlights the stakes of the issue. By Lillian Mongeau Hughes, a homelessness and mental health reporter at The Oregonian. Cross posted from KFF Health News. In what has become a routine event in rural America, a hospital maternity ward closed in 2023 in this small Oregon town about an hour from the Idaho border. For Shyanne McCoy, 23, that meant the closest hospital with an obstetrician on staff when she was pregnant was a 45-mile drive away over a mountain pass. When McCoy developed symptoms of preeclampsia last January, she felt she had the best chance of getting the care she needed at a larger hospital in Boise, Idaho, two hours away. She spent the final week of her pregnancy there, too far from home to risk leaving, before giving birth to her daughter. Six months later, she said it seems clear to her that the health care needs of rural young women like her are largely ignored. For McCoy and others, figuring out how to obtain adequate care to safely have a baby in Baker City has quickly eclipsed concerns about another medical service lacking in the area: abortion. But in Oregon and elsewhere in the country, progressive lawmakers attempts to expand abortion access sometimes clash with rural constituencies. Oregon is considered one of the most protective states in the country when it comes to abortion. There are no legal limits on when someone can receive an abortion in the state, and the service is covered by its Medicaid system. Still, efforts to expand access in the rural, largely conservative areas that cover most of the state have encountered resistance and incredulity. Its a divide that has played out in elections in such states as Nevada, where voters passed a ballot measure in November that seeks to codify abortion protections in the state constitution. Residents in several rural counties opposed the measure. In Oregon, during the months just before the Baker City closure was announced, Democratic state lawmakers were focused on a proposed pilot program that would launch two mobile reproductive health care clinics in rural areas. The bill specified that the van-based clinics would include abortion services. State Rep. Christine Goodwin, a Republican from a southwestern Oregon district, called the proposal the latest example of urban legislators telling rural leaders what their communities need. The mobile health clinic pilot was eventually removed from the bill that was under discussion. That means no new abortion options in Oregons Baker County and no new state-funded maternity care either. I think if you expanded rural access in this community to abortions before you extended access to maternal health care, you would have an uprising on your hands, said Paige Witham, 27, a member of the Baker County health care steering committee and the mother of two children, including an infant born in October. A study published in JAMA in early December that examined nearly 5,000 acute care hospitals found that by 2022, 52% of rural hospitals lacked obstetrics care after more than a decade of unit closures. The health implications of those closures for young women, the population most likely to need pregnancy care, and their babies can be significant. Research has shown that added distance between a patient and obstetric care increases the likelihood the baby will be admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit, or NICU. Witham said that while she does not support abortion, she believes the government should not legislate it away completely. She said that unless the government provides far more support for young families, like free child care and better mental health care, abortion should remain legal. Conversations with a liberal school board member, a moderate owner of a timber company, members of Baker Citys Republican Party chapter, a local doula, several pregnant women, and the director of the Baker County Health Department many of whom were not rigidly opposed to abortion all turned up the same answer: No mobile clinics offering abortions here, please. Kelle Osborn, a nurse supervisor for the Baker County Health Department, loved the idea of a mobile clinic that would provide education and birth control services to people in outlying areas. She was less thrilled about including abortion services in a clinic on wheels. Its not something that should just be handed out from a mobile van, she said of abortion services. She said people in her conservative rural county would probably avoid using the clinics for anything if they were understood to provide abortion services. Both Osborn and Meghan Chancey, the health departments director, said they would rank many health care priorities higher, including the need for a general surgeon, an ICU, and a dialysis clinic. Nationally, reproductive health care services of all types tend to be limited for people in rural areas, even within states that protect abortion access. More than two-thirds of people in maternity care deserts all of which are in rural counties must drive more than a half-hour to get obstetric care, according to a 2024 March of Dimes report. For people in the Southern states where lawmakers installed abortion bans, abortion care can be up to 700 miles away, according to a data analysis by Axios. Nathan Defrees grew up in Baker City and has practiced medicine here since 2017. He works for a family medicine clinic. If a patient asks about abortion, he provides information about where and how one can be obtained, but he doesnt offer abortions himself. Theres not a lot of anonymity in small towns for physicians who provide that care, he said. Many of us arent willing to sacrifice the rest of our career for that. He also pointed to the small number of patients requesting the service locally. Just six people living in Baker County had an abortion in 2023, according to data from the Oregon Department of Public Health. Meanwhile, 125 residents had a baby that year. A doctor with obstetric training living in another rural part of the state has chosen to quietly provide early-stage abortions when asked. The doctor, concerned for their familys safety in the small, conservative town where they live, asked not to be identified. The idea that better access to abortion is not needed in rural areas seems naive, the doctor said. People most in need of abortion often dont have access to any medical service not already available in town, the doctor pointed out. The first patient the doctor provided an abortion for at the clinic was a meth user with no resources to travel or to manage an at-home medication abortion. It seemed entirely inappropriate for me to turn her away for care I had the training and the tools to do, the doctor said. Defrees said it has been easier for Baker County residents to get an abortion since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. A new Planned Parenthood clinic in Ontario, Oregon, 70 miles away in neighboring Malheur County, was built primarily to provide services to people from the Boise metro area, but it also created an option for many living in rural eastern Oregon. Idaho is one of the 16 states with near-total bans on abortion. Like many states with bans, Idaho has struggled to maintain its already small fleet of fetal medicine doctors. The loss of regional expertise touches Baker City, too, Defrees said. For example, he said, the treatment plan for women who have a desired pregnancy but need a termination for medical reasons is now far less clear. It used to be those folks could go to Boise, he said. Now they cant. That does put us in a bind. Portland is the next closest option for that type of care, and that means a 300-mile drive along a set of highways that can be treacherous in winter. Its a lot scarier to be pregnant now in Baker City than it ever has been, Defrees said. 2024: The year Americas freedoms were stripped away Surveillance, censorship, and government overreach In 2024, the U.S. government expanded mass surveillance, using facial recognition, biometric data, and geofencing to track citizens' movements and activities. The Biden administration justified these measures as public safety initiatives, but critics labeled them as a power grab eroding privacy and freedom. Social media platforms, pressured by the government, censored dissenting voices, particularly targeting conservative viewpoints and critics of progressive policies. The Global Engagement Center (GEC) and other programs used taxpayer funds to suppress "misinformation," further stifling free speech and creating an echo chamber. Critics argue that 2024 marked a turning point in the government's assault on individual liberties, with privacy and free expression becoming relics of the past. In 2024, the erosion of American liberties reached alarming new heights. From the expansion of the surveillance state to the relentless censorship of free speech, the year marked a turning point in the governments assault on the very freedoms that define our nation. Under the guise of safety and security, Democrats and their allies in Big Tech waged an unprecedented war on privacy, free expression, and individual rights. The surveillance state grew more pervasive than ever, with facial recognition technology, biometric data collection, and geofencing dragnets becoming commonplace. Americans every movewhether online or in publicwas tracked, recorded, and stored in vast government databases. The government, in collusion with corporations, created a dystopian network of digital Peeping Toms, turning every smartphone, smart device, and social media account into a tool for mass surveillance. This Orwellian reality was not the work of a distant authoritarian regime but the result of policies championed by the Biden administration and its Democratic allies. The governments insatiable appetite for control has transformed America into a nation where privacy is a relic of the past, and freedom is a privilege granted only to those who toe the line. The surveillance state: Watching your every move In 2024, the surveillance state became an inescapable reality for millions of Americans. Facial recognition technology expanded into new areas of life, with government agencies and private companies collecting biometric data without consent. From airports to public streets, cameras equipped with advanced software tracked individuals in real time, eroding anonymity and creating a chilling effect on free movement. The governments use of geofencinga tactic that identifies and tracks individuals based on their phones location databecame a particularly egregious tool of control. Law enforcement agencies used this technology to monitor protests, rallies, and even everyday activities, turning innocent citizens into suspects simply for being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Meanwhile, DNA databases grew exponentially, with law enforcement agencies harvesting genetic material to build profiles of individuals and their families. This invasive practice not only violated privacy but also opened the door to genetic profiling and preemptive policing, where individuals could be targeted based on predictions of future behavior. The Biden administrations embrace of these technologies was justified under the banner of public safety. But in reality, it was a blatant power grab, designed to consolidate control and silence dissent. The governments message was clear: if you have nothing to hide, you have nothing to fear. But as history has shown, a government that watches its citizens so closely is one that cannot be trusted. Social media censorship: Silencing dissent While the surveillance state expanded, so too did the governments efforts to control the flow of information. Social media platforms, often acting at the behest of federal agencies, engaged in widespread censorship of viewpoints deemed unacceptable by the ruling elite. Under the Biden administration, the fight against so-called misinformation became a thinly veiled excuse to suppress free speech. The government funneled millions of taxpayer dollars into programs aimed at policing online discourse. Universities, nonprofits, and tech companies received grants to study and combat misinformation, with a particular focus on silencing critics of COVID-19 policies, climate change narratives, and other progressive agendas. Social media giants like Facebook and Twitter, under pressure from the White House, removed posts, banned accounts, and manipulated algorithms to suppress conservative voices. This collusion between Big Tech and the government created an echo chamber where only approved narratives were allowed to flourish. Dissenting opinions were labeled as dangerous, and those who dared to question the official line were branded as extremists. The result was a chilling effect on free expression, as Americans increasingly self-censored to avoid the wrath of the censorship cartel. The Biden administrations war on free speech reached new heights with the creation of the Global Engagement Center (GEC), a State Department subagency tasked with combating disinformation. The GEC funneled taxpayer money to organizations like the Global Disinformation Index, which blacklisted conservative media outlets and pressured advertisers to defund them. This blatant attack on the First Amendment was a stark reminder of the lengths to which the government would go to control the narrative. A government of the elite, by the elite, for the elite The erosion of liberties in 2024 was not an accident but the result of deliberate policies enacted by a government that has lost touch with the people it serves. The Biden administration and its Democratic allies have shown time and again that they value control over freedom, order over justice, and power over principle. As we look back on 2024, it is clear that America is at a crossroads. The freedoms we once took for granted are under siege, and the governments assault on liberty shows no signs of abating. If we are to reclaim our rights and restore the principles upon which this nation was founded, we must resist the encroachments of the surveillance state, reject the censorship of free speech, and hold our leaders accountable for their abuses of power. The future of America depends on it. Sources for this article include: Rutherford.org Expose-News.com NYPost.com NYPost.com The BIDEN DEMENTIA COVERUP initiated the ultimate collapse and death of the FAKE NEWS INDUSTRIAL COMPLEX Joe Scarborough, a prominent leftist figure, defended Biden's cognitive decline as the best version of himself, despite clear signs of confusion and disorientation. The cover-up of Biden's condition highlights a dangerous situation where a leader with cognitive issues has control over the nation's nuclear codes. The exposure of the Biden dementia cover-up has led to a significant loss of credibility for mainstream media, signaling the collapse of the Fake News Industrial Complex. Revelations about the Biden administration's suppression of evidence on COVID-19 origins, particularly the lab-leak theory, raise concerns about transparency and accountability. The exclusion of crucial evidence from intelligence briefings under the Biden administration indicates a coordinated effort to hide information, emphasizing the importance of uncovering the truth amidst political agendas. Joe Scarborough, ultimate Leftist shill and frontman for the scripted talk show Morning Joe, emphatically covered up Bidens massive cognitive decline by declaring the exact opposite, saying Start your tape right now, because Im about to tell you the truth, and F-U if you cant handle the truth. This version of Biden is the best Biden ever. Other Democrat hacks and Liberal hucksters described the demented, confused and lost Resident Biden was sharp as a tack, detail oriented and focused. Realize that this man, who has NO CLUE where he is after each speech, is STILL in charge of the nuclear codes for this nation, even though he belongs in a nursing home with round-the-clock care. This may be the biggest political lie ever besieged upon the American people, causing the most harm, the biggest national security risk, and the most irreparable damage any POTUS has ever been at the center of. However, it may have also been one huge blessing in disguise, because, finally, most Americans are waking up to the fact that Big Media has been lying to them for decades, and not just about this, but nearly everything that matters. Thats why the Biden dementia coverup, that took place for nearly 4 long years, once revealed, has ushered in the ultimate collapse and death of the Fake News Industrial Complex, once and for all. All the Leftist news shows and talk shows are scrambling for viewership, sinking faster than the Titanic, trying to revamp and recalibrate how to get anyone to pay any attention to them at all right now. Everyone should take heed, that the Biden dementia coverup scandal also reveals the Covid-19 origins coverup, the mRNA death jab coverup, the 9/11 coverup, the Patriot Act privacy invasion coverup, the January 6th FBI and DC police-led insurrection plot, the Trump-Russia collusion hoax, the Climate Change Ponzi scheme, and so much more. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kenneth Kristiansen (@kristiansenhk) The collapse of fake news, thanks to the revealing of Bidens dementia, is the biggest event of the century We can now recognize the truth of former FBI senior scientist Dr. Jason Bannan's claim that the Biden administration intentionally sidelined crucial evidence linking the origins of COVID-19 to a lab leak at the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Despite initial dismissal of the lab-leak theory as a conspiracy, it has gained significant support from the FBI and other experts. Government agencies, Big Tech, and mainstream media have previously denied and censored discussions on the lab-leak hypothesis, labeling it a conspiracy theory. The Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic recently concluded a two-year investigation, suggesting that COVID-19 likely emerged from a laboratory in Wuhan, China, based on several strong arguments supporting the lab-leak theory. We also know now that the FBI's analysis, which pointed to a lab origin of the virus with moderate confidence, was excluded from a high-level intelligence briefing with President Biden in 2021. Despite the FBI's conclusion, other intelligence agencies presented a different view, suggesting that the pandemic occurred naturally. This exclusion of the FBI from the briefing raises questions about the handling of lab-leak evidence by the Biden administration. There was obviously a coordinated effort to suppress lab-leak evidence and the exclusion of key scientists from crucial briefings on the origins of COVID-19. You can see now how the collapse of fake news, thanks to the revealing of Bidens dementia, is the biggest event of the century. Tune your apocalypse dial to preparedness.news for updates on real news about surviving the Democrat-led government aggression, lies, and propaganda that comes at us every day now, especially while the completely senile Biden is still sitting in the White House. Sources for this article include: Censored.news NaturalNews.com TheGatewayPundit.com Mars volcanic ash and lava caves could unveil clues to ancient life Researchers have found that volcanic ash and lava caves on Mars may contain signs of past microbial life, as detailed in studies published in September and November. The upcoming ExoMars Rosalind Franklin rover mission, set for 2028, will examine the Oxia Planum region, which is estimated to be between 4 and 3.7 billion years old and contains dark rocks that may have protected mineral-rich layers from past life forms. This rover will analyze samples using onboard instruments, comparing rock compositions to Earth rocks to identify signs of life. The target site is too jagged for the rover to drive on directly, but it aims to study fallen boulders for evidence. Parallel research on Earth's volcanic caves on the Spanish island of Lanzarote reveals that these environments could contain preserved minerals and organic compounds, similar to what might be found in Martian lava tubes. This could shed light on the potential for past microbial life and provide methods for identifying biosignatures. Combining efforts from ongoing studies and technology, Mars exploration is progressing towards revealing new insights into the planet's geological and climatic history, potentially answering key questions about the existence of life beyond Earth. In a groundbreaking study, researchers have discovered that ancient volcanic ash and lava caves on Mars could hold the key to understanding whether life ever existed on the Red Planet. This revelation is based on findings from multiple research fronts, including a study published last month in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Planets (JGR Planets) that identified a new rock type at the future landing site of the European Space Agency's (ESA) ExoMars Rosalind Franklin rover mission. The study, conducted by Emma Harris, a doctoral student at the Natural History Museum in London, zeroes in on the Oxia Planum region, a site estimated to be between four and 3.7 billion years old. Harris and her team examined data from orbiting satellites, revealing the presence of dark rocks that were likely deposited by a large volcanic eruption from afar. The findings suggest that these rocks may have protected underlying, mineral-rich layers that could potentially preserve signs of past microbial life. (Related: Mars may harbor alien life beneath its surface, study suggests.) "Although we can't study this rock in person, these rovers will be taking images for closer analyses of the material," Harris said. "It can also use lasers on the rocks so we can get their chemical composition, which we can then compare with rocks on Earth to help work out what it is." "The ExoMars rover is not allowed to drive on these ancient volcanic rocks at Oxia Planum because it is too jagged, but I'm hoping that a few boulders have fallen off these formations so we can analyze it in more detail and see if the ashfall hypothesis is correct." The Oxia Planum site is set to be visited by the ExoMars Rosalind Franklin rover, which is scheduled to launch in 2028, following a significant delay caused by the war in Ukraine and subsequent ESA partnerships with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The rover will analyze samples in an onboard laboratory, potentially discovering traces of microbial life from the planet's ancient past. Separate study looks at lava tubes as analogs for Martian caves Meanwhile, in a related study, a team of researchers from the University of South Florida (USF), in collaboration with researchers from Portugal, Spain and Italy, explored lava tubes on the Spanish island of Lanzarote. Their investigation, published in Communications Earth & Environment in September, highlights how these volcanic caves could serve as valuable analogs for Martian caves. The findings indicate microbial activity and microorganisms, such as bacteria, were once active in the caves. "This study adds to our understanding of geological and environmental changes on Earth and highlights lava tubes as potential refuges for microbial life, holding significant implications for astrobiology, particularly in identifying biosignatures on Mars and other celestial bodies," said Bogdan P. Onac, professor at the USF School of Geosciences. The research in Lanzarote suggests that Martian lava tubes may also contain preserved minerals and organic compounds, similar to those found in the Earth's volcanic caves. This could mean that Mars' lava tubes hold clues to past microbial life, giving insight into the potential habitability of other celestial bodies. The convergence of these discoveries points to a potential breakthrough in the search for extraterrestrial life. While the 2028 ExoMars mission will explore the implications of the volcanic ash deposits, parallel research into Earth's volcanic cave systems continues to provide critical insights and methodologies for identifying ancient biosignatures on other planets. As Mars exploration progresses, human understanding of the planet's geological and climatic history becomes increasingly critical. The combination of potential signs of ancient microbial life in Martian lava tubes and the preserved mineral-rich deposits from ancient volcanic eruptions could significantly transform man's vision of the Red Planet's past and, ultimately, humanity's quest to understand the existence of life beyond Earth. Watch this video about NASA's hidden discoveries on Mars, courtesy of its Curiosity Rover. This video is from the Puretrauma357 channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Scientist claims NASA discovered ALIEN LIFE on Mars 50 years ago, but the agency may have accidentally KILLED it. Chinas Mars rover may have stumbled across a lost ancient ocean on the Red Planet. Mars may have developed habitable conditions as early as 4.2 billion years ago. Sources include: LiveScience.com AGUPubs.OnlineLibrary.Wiley.com NHM.ac.uk Phys.org Nature.com Brighteon.com Ukraine cuts off Russian gas to Europe, harming Transnistria, Slovakia, and Hungary Ukraines refusal to extend its gas transit deal with Russia has halted Russian gas supplies to Europe, impacting Slovakia, Hungary, and Moldova. The decision is largely political, targeting nations with opposing stances on NATOs role in the Ukraine conflict. Transnistria faces a severe crisis, with potential for political unrest or foreign intervention. Slovakia and Hungary can mitigate impacts through LNG imports, but higher costs will strain their economies. The move could serve as a bargaining chip in future peace negotiations between Russia and Europe. The U.S. may play a pivotal role in mediating energy diplomacy to stabilize EU-Russia relations. Ukraine cuts off Russian gas to Europe The recent decision by Ukraine to cut off Russian gas supplies to Europe marks a significant escalation in the ongoing geopolitical tensions between Moscow and Kiev. While the immediate economic impact on the European Union (EU) may be limited, the political ramifications are profound, particularly for Slovakia, Hungary, and Moldova. This move, framed by Ukraine as a matter of national security, highlights the deepening divide between Russia and the West, with the U.S. potentially positioned as a mediator in future negotiations. Ukraines refusal to extend its five-year gas transit agreement with Russia, which expired on January 1, has effectively halted the flow of Russian gas through its pipelines. This decision, while symbolic, is largely political, targeting nations that have opposed NATOs involvement in the Ukraine conflict. Slovakia and Hungary, both led by conservative-nationalist governments critical of NATOs proxy war, are among the most affected. Moldova, a pro-Western nation seeking to reintegrate its separatist region of Transnistria, is also facing severe consequences. Transnistria, a breakaway region with a significant Russian military presence, is particularly vulnerable. The halt in gas supplies has forced the region to suspend heating and hot water services, raising fears of political unrest. Analysts warn that this could lead to a Color Revolution, potentially destabilizing the region and providing an opportunity for Moldova or Ukraine to intervene. Russias Foreign Intelligence Service has already flagged this scenario, suggesting that the Kremlin is preparing for possible escalation. Slovakia and Hungary, while impacted, have alternative options. Both nations can import liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the U.S., Algeria, or Qatar, albeit at higher costs. Slovakia can access LNG through Polands Klaipeda terminal, while Hungary benefits from the TurkStream pipeline, which remains operational. However, the increased costs will strain their economies, further complicating their political stances on the Ukraine conflict. Peace negotiations desperately needed to stop further harm to populations The broader implications of Ukraines decision extend beyond immediate economic concerns. By cutting off Russian gas, Ukraine has effectively created a bargaining chip for future peace negotiations. The potential reopening of gas routes, including the Yamal pipeline and the undamaged portion of Nord Stream, could serve as a powerful incentive for Russia to engage in talks. For Europe, the return of low-cost Russian gas could help avert a looming recession, particularly in Germany, where economic struggles are deepening. The U.S., having reasserted its influence over the EU since the onset of the Ukraine conflict, may play a crucial role in mediating these negotiations. Creative energy diplomacy could lead to a breakthrough, with the U.S. offering concessions to Russia in exchange for scaling back its demands in Ukraine. This could include the partial return of seized Russian assets or waivers for investment in Russias Arctic LNG 2 project. Such measures would aim to prevent Russia from further aligning with China, a scenario the U.S. is keen to avoid. However, any potential agreement would require careful balancing. The U.S. is unlikely to cede its influence over the EU, and Russias core security goalssuch as Ukraines neutrality and the exclusion of Western forcesmust be addressed. A compromise might involve demilitarizing eastern Ukraine while allowing Russia to retain some influence in the region. As the situation unfolds, the international community must tread carefully. The stakes are high, and the potential for further conflict looms large. Ukraines decision to cut off Russian gas is not just an economic maneuver; it is a political gambit with far-reaching consequences. The path to peace will require diplomacy, compromise, and a commitment to stability from all parties involved. Sources include: Korybko.substack.com RT.com Consilium.europa.eu UN report condemns Israeli attacks on Gaza hospitals The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has condemned Israeli military attacks on Gaza hospitals in a 23-page report. At least 136 strikes were carried out on 27 hospitals and 12 other medical facilities in Gaza, resulting in significant casualties among medical personnel and extensive damage to civilian infrastructure. The report stresses that intentionally directing attacks against hospitals and places treating the sick and wounded is a war crime and the deliberate destruction of healthcare facilities could amount to collective punishment, also a war crime. The report raises concerns about the discovery of three mass graves at the Al Shifa Medical Complex, with at least 80 corpses retrieved, some with medical equipment still attached. The UN is calling for immediate action to hold Israel accountable for its actions and to provide humanitarian aid to the suffering population of Gaza, including independent investigations and the restoration of the medical capacity destroyed in the conflict. The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has condemned the Israeli military attacks on the hospitals of Gaza in its recent report. The 23-page report, authored by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk, details the systematic destruction of the healthcare system of Gaza from October 2023 to July 2024. The report specifically cites the recent destruction of Kama Adwan Hospital in North Gaza, the last functioning major healthcare facility in the region. Following the Israeli military raid on the hospital, staff and patients were forced to flee or were taken into custody, with numerous reports of torture and ill-treatment. The director of the hospital has been taken into custody, and his fate remains unknown. (Related: WHO describes scene at Gaza hospitals as "UNBEARABLE.") According to the OHCHR report, at least 136 strikes were carried out on 27 hospitals and 12 other medical facilities during the reporting period, resulting in significant casualties among medical personnel and extensive damage to civilian infrastructure. The report stresses that intentionally directing attacks against hospitals and places treating the sick and wounded, unless they are military objectives, constitutes a war crime. The deliberate destruction of healthcare facilities could also amount to collective punishment, which is also a war crime. The report also notes that Israel has alleged that Palestinian armed groups were using hospitals for military purposes, but insufficient evidence has been provided to substantiate these claims. If verified, this would raise serious concerns about the use of civilian presence to shield combatants from attack, which would be a war crime. These impacts extend beyond physical destruction. The dire situation for women, especially pregnant women, who have given birth with no or minimal pre- and post-natal care, increases the risk of preventable maternal and child mortality. The report also details the discovery of three mass graves at the Al Shifa Medical Complex, following Israeli military raids in November 2023 and March 2024. At least 80 corpses were retrieved, some with medical equipment still attached, raising serious concerns about possible crimes under international law. "As if the relentless bombing and the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza were not enough, the one sanctuary where Palestinians should have felt safe, in fact, became a death trap," Turk said. "The protection of hospitals during warfare is paramount and must be respected by all sides, at all times." Turk: Israel must be held accountable for its actions against Gazans Israel has defended its actions by claiming that Gaza hospitals are used as command centers for Hamas military operations. However, the UN report notes that Israel has failed to provide any evidence to substantiate these claims. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of more than 45,500 Palestinians, widespread destruction of infrastructure and the displacement of almost the entire population, with many being forced from their homes multiple times. The report also draws attention to the alarming rhetoric within the Israeli government, with some ministers and Knesset members openly advocating for the ethnic cleansing of Gaza to pave the way for Jewish settlement. In light of these findings, the UN is calling for immediate action to hold Israel accountable for its actions and to provide humanitarian aid to the suffering population of Gaza. "It is essential that there be independent, thorough and transparent investigations of all of these incidents and full accountability for all violations of international humanitarian and human rights law which have taken place. All medical workers arbitrarily detained must be immediately released," Turk wrote. "It must also be a priority for Israel, as the occupying power, to ensure and facilitate access to adequate healthcare for the Palestinian population and for future recovery and reconstruction efforts to prioritize the restoration of the medical capacity which has been destroyed over the last 14 months of intense conflict." Visit IsraelCollapse.com for more stories about the consequences of Israel's war on Gaza. Watch Israeli artillery claim one life and hurt several people at Mubarak Hospital. This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Human rights group wants Israeli attacks on Gaza hospitals "investigated as war crimes." Israel has never provided convincing proof that Hamas militants are hiding in Gaza hospitals is Israel LYING as an excuse to indiscriminately bomb the innocent? Israeli military kills FIVE JOURNALISTS in clearly marked PRESS vehicle. Sources include: TheCradle.co News.un.org Brighteon.com Ukraine will have to hold 'discussions on territorial issues,' Europe will give it security guarantees Macron Photo: https://www.facebook.com/EmmanuelMacron French President Emmanuel Macron believes that Ukrainians will have to "hold realistic discussions on territorial issues" in order to find a solution to end the war with Russia. "Only they (Ukrainians) can conduct them (discussions)," Macron said at a meeting with French ambassadors on Monday. The head of the French state also said that the Russian-Ukrainian war "will not have a quick and easy solution," despite the promises of US President-elect Donald Trump to quickly end the war. "The new American president himself knows that the United States has no chance of winning anything if Ukraine loses... Ukraine's capitulation cannot be good for Europeans and Americans," the French president said, adding that the authority of Western countries would be undermined if they agreed to a compromise due to "fatigue" from the war in Ukraine. He also said that the United States must convince Russia to sit down at the negotiating table, and EU countries will need to "build security guarantees (for Ukraine), which will be their main responsibility." The French president also said that EU countries must strengthen their defense industries in the face of growing threats. "The question is whether Europeans want to produce what is necessary for their security over the next 20 years or not... If we depend on the American industrial and technological defense base, we will have cruel dilemmas and criminal strategic dependencies," he said. VACCINE CULTISTS DEMAND COMPLIANCE: After 1 human case of Bird Flu, vax extremist Dr. Leana Wen calls for FDA to authorize mRNA jab immediately A Bird Flu vaccine is being rapidly developed and contracted for production, despite only a few reported human cases, with the Biden administration signing a $176 million contract with Moderna. Critics argue that the vaccine development is suspiciously quick, and that the urgency is being driven by fake news and fearmongering. The vaccine is another mRNA jab, similar to those used for COVID-19, which critics claim are deadly and have caused severe side effects. Vaccine cultists and talking heads, like Dr. Leana Wen, are calling for accelerated approval and distribution of the Bird Flu vaccine, potentially bypassing safety regulations. There's a concern that the vaccine development is being used as a tool for mass vaccination, similar to the COVID-19 vaccine mandates, despite the lack of a widespread threat from Bird Flu. When a package of lettuce makes a few people sick, there is a nationwide recall, but when mRNA vaccines maim and murder tens of thousands of people, there are mandates to take even more. Expect emergency use authorization for the new Bird Flu vaccine coming to every doctors office, hospital, pharmacy, Walmart and school near you soon. Yes, somehow, the Vaccine Industrial Complex already has a deadly vaccine READY to fight H5N1 and the Biden Regime has ALREADY contracted with manufacturers to make 5 million doses. Isnt it amazing how theyve magically predicted exactly which pathogen will occur and also, six months in advance, the vaccine that the world must have for it? Dr. Leana Wen, one of the head vaccine cultists at the beginning of the Covid plandemic, has already gone on record saying There actually is a vaccine developed already against H5N1. The Biden Administration has contracted with manufacturers to make almost 5 million doses of the vaccine. However, they have not asked the FDA to authorize the vaccine They could get this authorized now and also get the vaccine out. The Biden administration has already signed a $176 million contract with Moderna for mRNA Bird Flu vaccine Moderna has already been awarded $176M by the U.S. Government to develop what will be called the Bird Flu Vaccine as the vaccine cultists claim theres been an outbreak of Bird Flu in dairy herds and some guy in Louisiana supposedly has it too. Fake news is covering this like its the Black Plague, fear mongering nearly as much as when some Chinese folks ate some infected bat soup at a market and spread the novel Fauci Flu gain-of-function, Wuhan-lab-crafted virus around the world in a matter of days. Just like the deadly mRNA jabs for Covid that cause rubbery vascular clots using nanoparticles that can magically join together, biotech giant Moderna has been granted a few hundred million bucks to make MORE of these deathly jabs, but this time for the rising threat of bird flu. These scientists and pharma shills should already be serving life in prison for the Covid stabs, but in America, medicine is a legal death sentence, so just the opposite is happening. All of the vaccine shills and hucksters are screaming about the urgency and potential severity of the situation, as they beg for the acceleration of the vaccines development, claiming they have the flexibility to expedite the vaccines development, meaning they can bypass all health and safety regulations, omit proper testing protocols, and start jabbing millions of naive, brainwashed, panic-filled sheeple with another deadly stab very soon. While only three human cases have been reported so far, the potential for a widespread panic using fake news remains a significant concern. Scientists have long warned about the threat posed by H5N1, making the development of a deadly vaccine a top priority. Modernas contract includes the option to pivot and address new threats if they emerge, providing a level of flexibility (more fake research for variants) in the face of an evolving pandemic landscape. This flexibility is crucial given the rapid mutation of the scamdemic narrative. The companys mRNA technology, which proved ineffective and deadly in the development of the COVID-19 vaccine, will be leveraged for this new vaccine. Modernas first approved product, the COVID-19 vaccine, demonstrated the power of mRNA technology to cause myocarditis, pericarditis, and strange rubbery blood clots. Remember, Covid-19 pandemic response by Big Pharma was never about helping people stay healthy, but rather it was about injecting everyone with deadly mRNA while making billions of dollars off the panic. It's all about the money and population reduction. Bookmark plague.info to your favorite independent websites for updates on strains of Bird Flu being purposely released in the USA and deadly vaccines that are not really authorized, safe, or effective to treat it. #BirdFluPlandemicUponUs Sources for this article include: Pandemic.news GatewayPundit.com NaturalNews.com ZeroHedge.com Barrons.com U.S. trails China in drone innovation, congressman warns; as Biden regime faces backlash over alleged cover-up of drone incidents Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) claims the U.S. is "10 years behind" China and other adversaries in drone technology development. Van Drew accuses the Biden administration of incompetence or a cover-up regarding mysterious drone sightings over multiple states. President-elect Donald Trump suggests the government knows more about the drones but is withholding information from the public. Concerns grow over national security and transparency as unidentified drones, some "the size of SUVs," continue to appear in U.S. airspac U.S. trails China in drone technology, warns Congressman In a stark warning to the nation, Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) has declared that the United States is lagging behind China and other global rivals in the development and deployment of advanced drone technologies. Speaking to Fox Business this week, Van Drew asserted that the U.S. is as much as "10 years behind" in this critical area of military and technological innovation. "Weve got to catch up and surpass where China is," Van Drew said. "We need to get on with this, and we can do it. But there is no doubt we are behind now." The congressman attributed this gap to what he described as misplaced priorities, including an overemphasis on social issues like "peoples pronouns and paying for sex changes in the military" rather than maintaining a cutting-edge military. Van Drew expressed confidence that the incoming Trump administration would reverse this trend, emphasizing the urgent need for the U.S. to regain its technological edge. However, his comments come amid growing concerns over the Biden administrations handling of a series of unexplained drone sightings across multiple states, which Van Drew has criticized as "terrible." Biden regime accused of cover-up over mysterious drones The controversy deepened when Van Drew accused the Biden administration of either incompetence or a deliberate cover-up regarding the origins and purpose of the mysterious drones. Earlier this month, Van Drew claimed, citing unnamed high-level sources, that the drones originated from an "Iranian mothership" off the eastern seaboard. The Biden administration has denied this claim but has yet to provide a clear explanation for the sightings. In a December 18 press release, Van Drew lambasted National Security Council spokesman John Kirby for dismissing the drone sightings as routine. "For John Kirby to stand before the American people, red-faced and sputtering excuses, and claim there is nothing out of the ordinary going on here after weeks of mounting concern is either sheer incompetence, willful ignorance, or a cover-up," Van Drew said. The congressman highlighted reports of drones "the size of SUVs" and criticized the administration for brushing off legitimate concerns. "If these drones are part of a government operation, we do not need to know every classified detail, but we do deserve some level of transparency," he added. Van Drew said these incidents draw parallels to the Chinese spy balloon incident earlier this year, accusing the administration of downplaying threats until they become undeniable. "They downplayed the Chinese spy balloon, assuring us it was not a threat, and then let it drift over our country for weeks collecting intelligence," he said. "To now dismiss these drones as routine is the height of arrogance and it is disrespectful to the people of America." Trump questions administrations silence Adding to the chorus of criticism, President-elect Donald Trump has also questioned the Biden administrations handling of the drone situation. During a mid-December press conference at his Mar-a-Lago resort, Trump suggested that the government knows more about the drones than it is revealing. "The government knows what is happening. Look, our military knows where they took off from," Trump told reporters. "They know where it came from and where it went. And for some reason, they dont want to comment, and I think theyd be better off saying what it is." While Trump did not confirm whether he had received a classified briefing on the matter, he indicated that he did not believe the drones originated from an adversary nation. However, he criticized the administration for keeping the public in the dark, stating, "Something strange is going on. For some reason, they dont want to tell the people, and they should." Sources include: ConservativeInstitute.org WashingtonExaminer.com Vandrew.house.gov Israels rules of engagement under scrutiny: IDF accused of indiscriminately killing civilians in Gaza Following Hamas October 7 attack, the IDF reportedly relaxed its rules of engagement, allowing mid-ranking officers to authorize airstrikes with higher civilian casualty thresholds, including strikes likely to kill over 100 civilians. The IDF employed unguided 2,000-pound bombs in densely populated Gaza, targeting low-level Hamas operatives in residential areas, contributing to a severe humanitarian crisis. Reports from Haaretz describe a kill zone in Gazas Netzarim Corridor, where soldiers allegedly shot civilians, including children, and misclassified civilian casualties as combatants. The International Court of Justice has ordered Israel to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza, while the Biden administration faces criticism for its unwavering support despite evidence of human rights abuses. The conflicts devastating human toll underscores the necessity for accountability, protection of civilians, and a sustainable resolution to end cycles of violence. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has drawn global attention, not only for its geopolitical implications but also for the devastating human toll it has exacted on civilians in Gaza. Recent reports from credible sources, including The New York Times and Haaretz, have raised alarming questions about the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) rules of engagement and their impact on civilian lives. For those committed to human rights, these revelations are deeply troubling and worthy of urgent examination. According to The New York Times, the IDF significantly loosened its rules of engagement in the aftermath of Hamas October 7 attack on Israel. The report alleges that mid-ranking officers were authorized to conduct airstrikes even when they anticipated high civilian casualties. Whereas the IDF previously tolerated between five and ten civilian deaths per enemy operative killed, this threshold was reportedly raised to 20. In some cases, strikes were authorized despite the likelihood of over 100 civilian casualties. This shift in policy reportedly allowed the IDF to target low-level Hamas operatives in their homes, surrounded by family and neighbors, rather than isolating them in less populated areas. The use of unguided 2,000-pound bombs in densely populated areas further exacerbated the humanitarian crisis. Within the first seven weeks of the conflict, the IDF fired approximately 30,000 munitions more than in the subsequent eight months combined. The IDF has defended its actions, stating that its methods adhere to international law. However, the staggering death toll in Gaza nearly 45,400, according to the enclaves Health Ministry suggests otherwise. The majority of those killed have been women and children, a fact that underscores the disproportionate impact of this conflict on innocent civilians. Adding to these concerns, Haaretz has published harrowing accounts from Israeli soldiers and officers who describe a kill zone in the Netzarim Corridor, a buffer area dividing Gaza into north and south. Soldiers allegedly received orders to shoot any Palestinian entering the zone, including children. Bodies were left uncollected, attracting packs of dogs, and civilian casualties were routinely classified as terrorists. One officer described a macabre competition between units to rack up higher body counts. These allegations, if true, represent a grave violation of human rights and international humanitarian law. The deliberate targeting of civilians, the use of excessive force, and the systemic misclassification of casualties as combatants are practices that cannot be justified under any circumstances. The time for unconditional support has passed The Biden administrations unwavering support for Israel, despite mounting evidence of human rights abuses, is equally concerning. While Israel has a right to defend itself against terrorist threats, this right does not absolve it of its obligations to protect civilian lives. The United States, as a global leader and staunch advocate for human rights, must hold its allies accountable and ensure that military operations are conducted in a manner consistent with international law. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has already taken steps to address these concerns, ordering Israel to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza and improve the humanitarian situation. South Africas case against Israel at the ICJ highlights the gravity of the allegations and the need for a thorough, impartial investigation. As conservatives, we must not shy away from confronting these issues. Human rights are universal, and their protection is a moral imperative that transcends political affiliations. These reports demand a rigorous examination of Israels military practices and a renewed commitment to upholding the principles of justice and accountability. The cost of this conflict has been immeasurable, not only in terms of lives lost but also in the erosion of trust and the perpetuation of cycles of violence. It is time for all parties involved to prioritize the protection of civilians, pursue meaningful dialogue, and work toward a sustainable resolution that respects the dignity and rights of all people. In the face of such profound suffering, silence is not an option. We must speak out, demand accountability, and reaffirm our commitment to the values that define us as a society. The lives of countless innocent civilians depend on it. Sources include: RT.com MSNBC.com IDF commander accused of endangering troops, flattening Gaza and blocking aid in pattern of unchecked brutality Brigadier General Yehuda Vach faces scrutiny for reckless decision-making, endangering troops, and disregarding Palestinian lives during Gaza operations. Vachs actions led to the deaths of eight Israeli soldiers in Zeitoun due to inadequate safety measures. He advocated for displacing 250,000 Palestinians from northern Gaza and blocked humanitarian aid, worsening the crisis. Vach allegedly collaborated with his brother to orchestrate a campaign of home demolitions in Gaza. Reports reveal a broader pattern of unethical behavior by IDF soldiers, including indiscriminate killings and dehumanization. The actions of Brigadier General Yehuda Vach, commander of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) 252nd Division, have come under intense scrutiny following a series of damning reports. Vach, who led operations in the Netzarim Corridora strategic strip of land bisecting Gazahas been accused of reckless decision-making, endangering his own troops, and displaying a callous disregard for Palestinian lives. These revelations paint a troubling picture of a commander whose zeal for conquest and punishment has overshadowed ethical considerations and military prudence. One of the most serious allegations against Vach is his role in the deaths of eight Israeli soldiers during an operation in Zeitoun, a southern neighborhood of Gaza City, in August. According to soldiers who spoke to Ha'aretz, Vach pushed his troops to advance northward without adequate preparation or safety measures. The result was catastrophic: a supply convoy either drove over a bomb or was hit by an anti-tank missile, leading to multiple casualties. This incident highlights a pattern of reckless decision-making by Vach, who prioritized territorial gains over the safety of his troops. His aggressive tactics have not only cost Israeli lives but have also raised questions about the broader ethical standards within the IDF. Ethnic cleansing and humanitarian blockades Vachs actions extend beyond battlefield decisions. He has been accused of advocating for the forced displacement of 250,000 Palestinians from northern Gaza, a move that many have likened to ethnic cleansing. In early December, Vach reportedly expressed frustration that this goal had not been achieved, stating that only by losing land will the Palestinians learn the necessary lesson from Hamas October 7 attack. Moreover, Vach has been accused of actively blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza, a move that has exacerbated the already dire humanitarian crisis in the region. Not one truck should enter, he allegedly told his officers, reflecting a chilling indifference to the suffering of civilians. This stance aligns with his broader worldview, as he reportedly declared that there are no innocents in Gaza. Such rhetoric not only dehumanizes Palestinians but also undermines Israels moral standing on the global stage. Perhaps the most shocking revelation is Vachs alleged collaboration with his brother, Colonel (res.) Golan Vach, to orchestrate a campaign of destruction in Gaza. Golan reportedly established a rogue unit called Pladot Heavy Engineering Equipment, composed of soldiers and civilians, with the sole objective of demolishing Palestinian homes. The mission was to go house-to-house and ensure that everything there was ready for flattening, one soldier explained. This unit operated with little oversight, flattening entire neighborhoods to ensure Palestinians could not return. Golans actions were not only destructive but also reckless. In one instance, he entered a Hamas tunnel without proper precautions, leading to a collapse that left him injured and required a two-hour rescue operation. Multiple reports of unethical behavior by IDF soldiers Vachs actions are not isolated incidents. Reports of unethical behavior by Israeli soldiers in Gaza have become increasingly common, with allegations of indiscriminate killings, free-fire zones, and even competitions to rack up civilian casualties. One commander from Division 252 described a line of corpses north of the Netzarim Corridor, where Palestinians are shot on sight and their bodies left to rot. Such practices reveal a disturbing erosion of moral and ethical standards within the IDF. While Vachs actions are particularly egregious, they reflect a broader trend of dehumanization and impunity that has characterized Israels military campaign in Gaza. Brigadier General Yehuda Vachs conduct in Gaza raises serious questions about the ethical direction of the IDF. His reckless endangerment of troops, advocacy for ethnic cleansing, and collaboration in a campaign of destruction underscore a troubling disregard for human life. Equally concerning is the broader culture within the IDF that allows such behavior to flourish unchecked. Sources for this article include: TheCradle.co MiddleEastEye.net TimesOfIsrael.com Report: Biden considering striking Iranian nuclear sites Outgoing President Joe Biden and top national security advisers reportedly discussed potential military action against Iran's nuclear facilities amid allegations over Iran's rapid uranium enrichment nearing weapons-grade levels. The meeting explored military and strategic options but did not result in a recommendation or authorization for a strike, with officials emphasizing it was "prudent scenario planning" rather than a response to new intelligence. Iran's perceived vulnerability, due to weakened regional allies like Hezbollah and Assad's regime, raises concerns it may accelerate its nuclear program to deter regime collapse, potentially prompting preemptive action. Iran denies seeking nuclear weapons, claiming its program is for civilian purposes, while the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reports it has enriched uranium to 60 percent purity close to weapons-grade with enough material for four bombs. Outgoing President Joe Biden and top national security advisers reportedly discussed potential military action against Iran's nuclear facilities. The meeting, first reported by Axios, was part of contingency planning for scenarios in which Iran accelerates its nuclear program before Biden leaves office on Jan. 20. While no decision was made, the discussions underscore the administration's growing concern over Iran's rapid uranium enrichment and the possibility of Tehran inching closer to developing a nuclear weapon. The meeting, led by National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, explored various military and strategic options but did not result in a recommendation or authorization for a strike. An official familiar with the meeting, speaking anonymously, emphasized that the discussions were not prompted by new intelligence but were part of "prudent scenario planning" in case Iran enriches uranium to weapons-grade levels. The backdrop to these deliberations is a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape in the Middle East. Israel, a key ally of the United States in the region, believes Iran is increasingly isolated following the weakening of its regional allies including Hezbollah whose military capabilities have been diminished by the Israeli Defense Forces' invasion of Lebanon and the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria. (Related: Israeli Air Force preparing to conduct massive airstrikes against alleged Iranian nuclear weapons development sites.) This perceived vulnerability has raised concerns that Iran might accelerate its nuclear program as a means of preventing its regime from being toppled, creating a potential window for preemptive action. Iran denies developing nuclear weapons Iran, for its part, has consistently denied seeking nuclear weapons, maintaining that its nuclear activities are solely for civilian purposes. In a statement, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated Tehran's openness to negotiations but warned that sanctions and pressure would only strengthen Iran's resolve. "The more they impose sanctions and pressure on Iran, the more Iran will show resistance," Araghchi said. "If they opt for fair, just, and dignified negotiations and speak with the language of respect, we will respond in kind." The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) claims that Iran has been able to enrich uranium to 60 percent purity, a level alarmingly close to the 90 percent needed for use in nuclear weapons. Agency Director General Rafael Grossi described the situation as "very concerning," noting that there is enough 60 percent enriched uranium to produce four nuclear bombs. Behind the scenes, some of Biden's top aides have argued that the combination of Iran's advancing nuclear program and the weakening of its regional influence presents both an imperative and an opportunity for decisive action. Sullivan reportedly highlighted the degradation of Iran's air defenses and missile capabilities, as well as the diminished strength of its proxies, as factors that could improve the odds of a successful strike while reducing the risk of retaliation. However, the administration remains cautious. A U.S. official noted that Sullivan did not recommend military action during the meeting but instead focused on scenario planning. Biden himself reportedly questioned the urgency of the situation, weighing whether Irans actions justify a dramatic military strike just weeks before a new administration takes office. Watch this InfoWars video discussing how the claims that Iran is plotting a nuclear attack could be a Deep State conspiracy to plunge the U.S. into another forever war. This video is from the InfoWars channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: The fall of Syria: A dangerous prelude to war with Iran? Iran sitting on "secret weapon" more powerful than nukes, general claims. West fears Russia has given Iran NUCLEAR BOMB SECRETS in exchange for missiles to attack Ukraine. FBI claims Iran sent stolen Trump documents to Biden's campaign before he dropped out of the race. Sources include: RT.com Axios.com Brighteon.com CONSPIRACY THEORY? Army vet Livelsberger was shot, then vehicle remote-driven to Trump hotel for Dem narrative that U.S. military veterans are domestic terrorists Questioning the Official Narrative : The event at the Trump hotel in Las Vegas has raised doubts about the official story, suggesting it might be another staged FBI "domestic terror" attack, possibly using a U.S. military veteran as a patsy. : The event at the Trump hotel in Las Vegas has raised doubts about the official story, suggesting it might be another staged FBI "domestic terror" attack, possibly using a U.S. military veteran as a patsy. Doubts About the Cause of Death : The official account of the alleged bomber, Matthew Livelsberger, dying by a self-inflicted gunshot wound is questioned, given the contradictory evidence of his charred body and the nearly intact passport found nearby. : The official account of the alleged bomber, Matthew Livelsberger, dying by a self-inflicted gunshot wound is questioned, given the contradictory evidence of his charred body and the nearly intact passport found nearby. Livelsbergers Alleged Manifesto : Livelsberger's email to a retired intelligence officer reveals a manifesto warning about advanced Chinese drones that pose a significant threat to U.S. national security, which could reshape the global security landscape if verified. : Livelsberger's email to a retired intelligence officer reveals a manifesto warning about advanced Chinese drones that pose a significant threat to U.S. national security, which could reshape the global security landscape if verified. Potential Political Motivation: The narrative presented by MSNBC and others, highlighting U.S. veterans as a domestic terror threat, is seen as a possible setup to blame veterans for future problems facing criminal Democrat politicians, potentially justifying the use of military force against political opponents. A very big question looms now that weve been fed another too-scripted-to-believe narrative from mass media complex about the vehicle bomb at the Trump hotel in Las Vegas. If the Las Vegas Tesla vehicle bomb was another staged FBI-plotted domestic terror attack, was a U.S. military veteran used as the patsy to set the stage for labeling U.S. veterans as domestic terrorists if Trump decides to use the military to arrest top criminal Democrat politicians? With all the conspiracy theories that have been proven TRUE over the past 8 years, this one may be another thats proven true in the next few months, or less. Clark County Sheriff Kevin McMahill told reporters on that the alleged Cybertruck bomber, Matthew Livelsberger, a 37-year-old Green Beret, died by a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head just moments before the Tesla vehicle he was driving blew up in front of Trumps hotel. Mind you, this is the official statement from law enforcement, who also told us that the body was burned beyond recognition, yet the police and Feds are saying he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. How would that know that, and how could they claim that so quickly? Then, they found his passport, barely charred, on the street next to the demolished vehicle. This reeks of 9/11 terrorist passports that were found perfectly intact on the streets at ground zero. Sure. There are basically three scenarios that could be true of this domestic terror event: Livelsberger shot himself because he was already planning to commit suicide and didn't want to risk being burned alive, even though he wrote a manifesto prior saying he was in perfect mental health (and hes a Trump supporter). He was shot by someone else and then the Tesla was auto-pilot navigated to the Trump hotel, where the cheap explosive materials were ignited to blow up the vehicle Or, is the charred body NOT that of Green Beret Matthew Livelsberger, and the Feds simply used his passport as a ploy and falsified evidence to fit their narrative? Matthew Livelsberger took out his own insurance policy by writing a manifesto prior to the event that exposed the whole mysterious drone psyop In a shocking revelation to the Cyber-truck bomber case, Matthew Livelsbergers email to retired intelligence officer Sam Shoemate has sent ripples through the national security community. Livelsbergers manifesto described the U.S. as "terminally ill" and his actions as a "wake-up call," not a suicide attempt or a bomb to try to kill Trump. The manifesto is a dire warning about drones using advanced "gravitic propulsion systems, which is obviously information the Biden Regime (and their cohorts of the C.C.P.) do NOT want U.S. citizens to know about. According to Livelsberger, China has been deploying these drones over the US, primarily for surveillance and intelligence gathering. Livelsberger says these drones pose a severe threat to national security due to their unlimited payload capacity and potential to park over critical locations, like the White House, military installations, and nuclear power plants. Shoemate, faced with the dilemma of either going public or letting the information get buried by the FBI, chose to share it with Shawn Ryans show. He emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "It's checkmate." Livelsbergers claim, if verified, could potentially reshape the global security landscape, highlighting a new and unprecedented threat. The full implications of these alleged drones and their capabilities remain to be seen, but the revelation has undoubtedly added a layer of complexity to the ongoing investigation. According to Livelsberger's email: "China has been launching them from the Atlantic from submarines for years, but this activity recently has picked up. As of now, it is just a show of force and they are using it similar to how they used the balloon for a sigint and isr, which are also part of the integrated comms system," continuing "...they are the most dangerous threat to national security that has ever existed. They basically have an unlimited payload capacity and can park over the WH if they wanted. It's checkmate." MSNBCs narrative shill, Lawrence ODonnell, singled out U.S. veterans, specifically from the Army, as a greater terror threat than the people illegally crossing the southern border. A former CIA officer recently said that more than a thousand al-Qaeda operatives have likely crossed the open border and are now in the United States just waiting to strike but apparently, but ODonnell wont be speaking to that. This sounds like a narrative set up to blame U.S. military veterans, including the Army, for future problems that criminal Democrat politicians face for their crimes against humanity, embezzling, and lawfare against Trump. Heres MSNBCs shill and hack ODonnell ranting about U.S. military veterans being the biggest domestic terror threat weve ever seen. MSNBC's Lawrence O'Donnell: "It is very clear from the evidence that if you want to worry about terrorism in this country, the United States Army is a much bigger problem than the southern border." pic.twitter.com/b5859v9QIm The Post Millennial (@TPostMillennial) January 3, 2025 To further expose the U.S. government for criminal activities, a CIA whistleblower has just recently accused the Biden administration of a sweeping cover-up involving directed energy weapon attacks on U.S. intelligence officers. In an exclusive interview, the whistleblower, a victim themselves, claims that these attacks, often referred to as "Havana Syndrome," are far more extensive and severe than acknowledged. Did the Feds (CIA and FBI) just eliminate another whistleblower? Only time will tell. Tune your apocalypse dial to preparedness.news for updates on real news about surviving the Democrat-led government aggression, lies, and propaganda that comes at us every day now. Sources for this article include: NaturalNews.com TheGatewayPundit.com ZeroHedge.com Brian Festa: MEDICAL KIDNAPPING a hidden crisis in Americas child welfare system Parents across the U.S. are experiencing traumatic situations where their children are removed from their homes due to accusations of medical neglect, a phenomenon known as "medical kidnapping." The Guidry family from Missouri exemplifies this issue, having their four children forcibly removed over the use of alternative medical treatments, despite ongoing recovery. Their youngest, an autistic child, was moved through four foster homes in six weeks. Critics argue that state health officials are overriding parental decisions without sufficient justification, often pressuring families to comply with traditional medical protocols. We The Patriots USA is fighting for systemic changes, providing legal assistance to families like the Guidrys, and advocating for transparency in legal actions to defend parental rights and medical freedom. The organization aims to educate the public about the crisis and promote reform, emphasizing the importance of informed citizen support in safeguarding American families' rights and freedoms. In a disturbing trend, parents across the United States are facing the trauma of having their children forcibly removed from their homes due to accusations of medical neglect. The phenomenon, known as "medical kidnapping," is a growing concern among advocates for parental rights and medical freedom. The case of the Guidry family of Missouri exemplifies the plight of parents who, often on the basis of using alternative medical treatments, find themselves embroiled in bureaucratic nightmares. Paul and Amanda Guidry had their four children "medically kidnapped" by state authorities, despite their children's ongoing recovery and treatment through alternative methods. The family's youngest child, a six-year-old boy with autism and non-verbal, was moved through four different foster homes in just six weeks, while his parents fought a legal battle to regain custody. This case, while not unique, is emblematic of a broader crisis in the American child welfare system. Critics argue that state health officials are overriding parental decision-making without sufficient justification, often pressuring families to comply with traditional medical protocols even when parents believe alternative treatments are more effective. The consequences can be devastating not only for the children involved but for the broader community's perception of parental rights and medical freedom. We The Patriots USA champions parental rights and liberty against state tyranny We The Patriots USA (WTP USA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to defending liberty and freedom for Americans, is at the forefront of the battle against this epidemic. "We did win a victory for them and got the children back in the home in 2023, but that case isn't over yet because now we have new litigation to get them off the child abuse registry," WTP USA co-founder and Vice President Brian Festa told the Health Ranger Mike Adams during a recent interview on the "Health Ranger Report." "They never should have been there because they were never convicted of any child abuse or neglect. It was just an accusation by the state of Missouri, and the children were ripped out of the home." WTP USA, through its extensive network of supporters and legal expertise, is not only providing critical assistance to families like the Guidrys but also advocating for systemic changes. (Related: The battle against medical kidnapping: How We The Patriots USA is saving children from state tyranny.) Festa emphasized the importance of transparency in legal actions. For instance, the Ramirez case in Oakland, California which involves a teacher fired for refusing to use preferred pronouns highlights the organization's commitment to defending free speech and religious freedom in the face of government overreach. The civil rights attorney argued that these cases are not merely about individual disputes, but about broader principles of liberty and the sanctity of parental rights. The organization's work extends beyond legal representation to include public advocacy and education, ensuring that citizens are informed about the extent of this hidden crisis and how they can support efforts to reform the system. As Festa and his team continue to challenge state authorities and push for systemic change, the role of public support is more crucial than ever. Follow MedicalTyranny.news for more news about the medical tyranny happening in America. Watch the full interview between Brian Festa of We The Patriots USA and the Health Ranger Mike Adams below. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Barbaric forms of medically-sponsored child abuse could be upheld as "gender-affirming care" in landmark Supreme Court ruling. Nurse: Holding patients hostage without visitors is medical kidnapping Brighteon.TV (Bryan Ardis show). Door-to-door medical kidnappings begin in Australia as covid fascism escalates. Sources include: Brighteon.com WeThePatriotsUSA.org 1 WeThePatriotsUSA.org 2 WeThePatriotsUSA.org 3 Michigan planning to clear over 400 acres of state forest to build a solar farm The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DBR) is proposing leasing 420 acres of state forestland in northern Michigan to be cleared for the building of a solar farm. The project furthers Michigan's goal of sourcing 80 percent of its power from renewable energy sources by 2035. The plan has sparked criticism over Michigan's prioritization of renewable energy development at the expense of environmental conservation. The Michigan DNR claims it plans to use leasing revenues from the solar project to fund other natural resource management programs, including land conservation. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has confirmed plans to lease 420 acres of state forestland near Gaylord to be cleared for a solar farm. The decision, announced in late 2024, is part of a broader effort to boost renewable energy production and address the DNR's declining revenues from traditional income sources like hunting and fishing licensing fees. However, the plan to clear-cut forested land for solar panels has drawn sharp criticism. Opponents argue that it undermines Michigans climate goals and threatens wildlife habitats. The proposed solar farm in Hayes Township, Otsego County, would be adjacent to a private solar array already under development. The site was chosen due to its proximity to a high-voltage transmission line, which officials say makes it an ideal location for renewable energy infrastructure. Scott Whitcomb, director of the DNR's Office of Public Lands, defended the decision, stating, "You could have a degraded site and it's not close to an interconnect, or if its close to an interconnect, it might not be in a place where the grid can take the electrons." The project comes as Michigan races to meet its ambitious climate goals. State lawmakers passed legislation in 2023 requiring utilities to source 80 percent of their energy from renewable sources by 2035, and 100 percent by 2040. DNR criticized for prioritizing solar development over forest and wildlife habitat conservation However, deciding to clear forestland for solar panels has raised questions about the trade-offs between renewable energy development and environmental conservation. (Related: Locals outraged as California's iconic Joshua trees are cut down to build a solar farm.) State Rep. Ken Borton (R-Gaylord) was among the most vocal opponents, calling the decision "mind-numbing and accusing the DNR of prioritizing profits over conservation. "This deforestation will destroy habitats and effectively kill wildlife," Borton said in a statement. "Let me make that clear, the DNR is choosing to kill wildlife so they can build solar panels." State Sen. Michele Hoitenga (R-Manton) echoed these concerns, stating, "The people who made this absurd decision signed up for a job to protect our natural resources. Instead, they sold us out." The DNR has long leased state land for various industrial uses, including oil and gas extraction, mineral mining and timber production. Whitcomb emphasized that the agency carefully evaluates potential sites for solar development, rejecting proposals that conflict with environmental priorities. For example, the DNR denied a request to build solar panels in an area known to be a habitat for the endangered Kirtland's warbler. Whitcomb argued that the 420-acre site near Gaylord is "less than pristine," noting that parts of the land were previously clear-cut and replanted with red pine seedlings, while other areas host oil and gas wellheads. Whitcomb also argued that the DNR is planning to use leasing revenues from the solar project to fund natural resource management projects, such as acquiring other land for conservation purposes. "We don't give this land away for free," Whitcomb said. "That lease revenue can go into natural resources management. So, I wouldn't say it's the only reason, but it is something we think about." The controversy over the Gaylord solar farm reflects a larger struggle in Michigan to balance renewable energy development with environmental and community concerns. Local efforts to block solar projects on leased farmland have led to contentious meetings, litigation, and even recall elections. In 2023, state lawmakers shifted the permitting process for large-scale solar projects from local governments to a state-appointed panel, a move that has further fueled tensions. Despite the backlash, the DNR remains committed to its solar leasing initiative, which aims to lease up to 4,000 acres of state land for renewable energy projects. To date, fewer than 1,500 acres have been leased for solar development. DNR Director Scott Bowen said the agency is selective in choosing sites. "We intend to choose the right acres, in the right places, to achieve energy objectives," he said. "It is not our intent to have widespread conversions." The DNR is also moving forward with its plans for the forestland near Gaylord, but the project's future will likely depend on the outcome of public hearings and the competitive bidding process set to begin in the coming months. "It's a process, and we haven't even really begun that process," Whitcomb said. "We'll consider public input on any potential lease." Watch this video discussing how Storm Darragh, which ravaged the British Isles in December 2024, completely demolished the United Kingdom's solar farms. This video is from the ADAPT2030 | Civilization Cycle channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: The Biden-Harris administration's solar energy subsidies are only benefiting China. History proves wind and solar energy aren't viable for powering the future. Many countries investing in nuclear energy generation while America LANGUISHES in pursuit of less capable renewables. So much for being eco-friendly: Desert solar projects in Southern California are draining water reserves of local communities. Relying solely on wind and solar power requires the TAKEOVER of so much land compared to fossil fuels. Sources include: X.com MLive.com 1 DetroitNews.com MLive.com 2 Brighteon.com The new American dream: $500,000 nuclear bunkers and the fear of WWIII The traditional symbols of success, like white picket fences, are being replaced by $500,000 nuclear bunkers, reflecting growing fears of global instability and the threat of WWIII. Amid escalating U.S.-Russia tensions and the Ukraine war, American families are investing in underground shelters at unprecedented rates, with companies like USA Bunker Company seeing skyrocketing orders nationwide. Modern bunkers are no longer basic shelters; they are move-in-ready sanctuaries with kitchens, bedrooms and artificial windows, catering to both middle-class and luxury markets, with some custom bunkers priced at $500,000. The prepper subculture, once fringe, has doubled since 2017 to 20 million Americans, with the wealthy leading the trend by investing in high-end bunkers while others focus on fortifying homes or stockpiling supplies. The bunker boom is driven by fear of global conflict and societal collapse, but it also symbolizes human adaptability and the enduring hope to survive and thrive in the face of existential threats. The American dream is undergoing a dramatic transformation. Gone are the days when a white picket fence and a two-car garage symbolized success. Today, the ultimate status symbol for the anxious elite is a $500,000 nuclear bunker, complete with artificial windows, reinforced concrete walls and the eerie promise of survival in the face of Armageddon. As tensions between the United States and Russia escalate and the specter of World War III looms larger than ever, American families are investing in underground shelters at an unprecedented rate. Todd Stump, the owner of Ohio-based USA Bunker Company, has seen demand skyrocket, with orders pouring in from Pennsylvania to California. His bunkers, ranging from modest eight-by-20-foot units to sprawling 1,000-square-foot luxury hideaways, are designed to withstand everything from nuclear fallout to biological attacks. But this isn't just about survival, it's about comfort. These aren't the typical Cold War-era bomb shelters, damp and dimly lit. These are move-in-ready sanctuaries equipped with kitchens, bedrooms and even artificial windows that mimic the illusion of life above ground. For those with deeper pockets, Stump is now catering to a luxury market, with custom bunkers priced at a staggering $500,000. It is survivalism meets suburban sprawl and it's booming. America has long been the epicenter of the prepper movement, a subculture of survivalists who stockpile food, water and ammunition in preparation for doomsday. But what was once a fringe movement has gone mainstream. According to recent research, the number of preppers in the U.S. has doubled since 2017, reaching a staggering 20 million. While most focus on fortifying their basements or hoarding supplies, the wealthy are taking it a step further by investing in underground bunkers. Stump, a former military man with 15 years in law enforcement, understands the mindset. "A lot of people are concerned with the way things are going in the world," he said. "They just want that peace of mind of knowing if something does happen, that they have an option so they no longer have to worry about anything." The Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic was a wake-up call for many, exposing the fragility of modern society. But it's the ongoing war in Ukraine and the escalating rhetoric between nuclear powers that have truly fueled the bunker boom. For some, the idea of spending weeks, or even months, underground is no longer a dystopian fantasy but a realistic contingency plan. A luxury market for the end times While the ultra-wealthy have long had access to high-end survival solutions, Stump has made it his mission to bring bunkers to the middle class. His prefabricated shelters, made with quarter-inch steel plates, are designed to be affordable yet impenetrable. For those who can't afford a custom-built fortress, these bunkers offer a lifeline in a world that feels increasingly unstable. For critics, Stump is capitalizing on fear, offering not just protection but peace of mind. His company handles everything from building permits to installation, ensuring that clients can focus on surviving the apocalypse without the hassle of paperwork. As demand continues to soar, Stump is setting his sights on a new frontier: luxury bunkers. These aren't just shelters; they're underground mansions, complete with all the amenities of modern life. For half a million dollars, one can ride out the end of the world in style, sipping wine in your subterranean living room while the world above burns. It's a grim vision of the future, but one that resonates with a growing number of Americans. Stump already has contracts lined up for 2025, proving that the appetite for high-end survival solutions shows no signs of slowing down. (Related: Sales of survival bunkers rise following Russia's use of the Oreshnik hypersonic ballistic missile.) Watch the video below that talks about the government's secret underground nuclear bunker. This video is from The Prisoner channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: 3 NATO member countries to build BUNKERS along their border with Russia. Germany prepping nuclear bunkers as WWIII with Russia looms. Mark Zuckerberg commissioning secret DOOMSDAY BUNKER in Hawaii, complete with blast-resistant door. Sources include: DailyMail.co.uk Brighteon.com Unraveling the origins of Crossfire Hurricane, the FBIs Trump-Russia-collusion hoax The FBIs investigation into alleged collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia, code-named Crossfire Hurricane , has long been a subject of intense scrutiny and controversy. Recent revelations from Australian diplomat Alexander Downer have shed new light on the investigations origins, confirming suspicions that the FBIs justification for launching the probe was based on a flawed and misleading narrative. FBI pursued a bogus investigation while knowing it was part of political hit job The story begins in May 2016, when George Papadopoulos, a foreign policy advisor to the Trump campaign, met with Alexander Downer, Australias ambassador to the United Kingdom, and his assistant, Erika Thompson, in London. According to the FBIs version of events, Papadopoulos hinted during this meeting that Russia might assist the Trump campaign by anonymously releasing damaging information about Hillary Clinton. This claim was later amplified by Special Counsel Robert Mueller, who asserted that Papadopoulos had specifically mentioned dirt on Clinton in the form of thousands of emails. However, Downers account, as detailed in Special Counsel John Durhams report, tells a different story. Downer has now publicly confirmed Durhams findings, stating in a three-word tweet, Durham is right. According to Downer, Papadopoulos made no mention of Clinton emails, dirt, or any specific offers of assistance from Russia. Instead, Papadopoulos simply stated, the Russians have information, a comment that Downer characterized as vague and inconsequential. The discrepancy between the FBIs narrative and Downers account raises serious questions about the legitimacy of the Crossfire Hurricane investigation. The FBI relied on a cherry-picked snippet from a report written by Erika Thompson following the May 2016 meeting. The snippet, which was submitted to the Australian government and later shared with the U.S. Embassy in London, suggested that Papadopoulos had hinted at Russian assistance to the Trump campaign. However, Downer has clarified that the snippet was purposely vague and did not accurately reflect the substance of the conversation. In late July 2016, Downer provided the meeting report to the U.S. Embassy in London after hearing Clinton campaign manager Robby Mook claim on CNN that Russia had hacked the Democratic National Committee (DNC) to assist Trump. Downers decision to share the report at this time was unusual, given that the meeting had occurred more than two months earlier. While Downers motivations remain unclear, his actions inadvertently provided the FBI with the justification it needed to launch the Crossfire Hurricane investigation on July 31, 2016. Peter Strzok further weaponized the FBI to target Trump campaign Shortly after the investigation began, FBI investigators Peter Strzok and Joe Pientka traveled to London to interview Downer and Thompson. During these interviews, Downer made it clear to Strzok that Papadopoulos had not claimed any direct contact with the Russians and that the comments attributed to him were vague and open to interpretation. Despite this, Strzok proceeded to expand the investigation, targeting other members of the Trump campaign, including Carter Page, Paul Manafort, and Michael Flynn. Strzoks actions have come under particular scrutiny in light of Downers recent confirmation of Durhams account. According to Durhams report, Strzok privately admitted to Pientka and the FBIs London representative that there was nothing to this but insisted on continuing the investigation. British intelligence officials also expressed skepticism, telling the FBI that they could not believe the Papadopoulos bar conversation was all there was and suggesting that the FBI should first speak directly with Papadopoulos. Downers confirmation of Durhams findings is a significant development in the ongoing debate over the origins of the Russia investigation. It demonstrates that the FBI was aware from the outset that the justification for launching Crossfire Hurricane was based on a flawed and misleading interpretation of the Papadopoulos-Downer meeting. Despite Downers clear and consistent statements to the contrary, the FBI chose to proceed with the investigation, setting in motion a chain of events that would have far-reaching consequences for American politics. Sources include: TruthOverNews.org Justice.gov [PDF] CNN.com Long-range drones of the Security Service of Ukraine have covered more than 900 km and successfully hit a target in the commercial port of Ust-Luga in Leningrad region, a source from the SBU told Interfax-Ukraine. "The attack on the largest commercial port in Russia, Ust-Luga in Leningrad region, is the work of the SBU... On January 4, long-range drones of the Security Service covered more than 900 kilometers, flew almost to St. Petersburg and successfully hit a target," the source said. According to him, the video shows how one of the drones hits containers with gas condensate. "As a result of the strike, one tank was severely damaged, and three adjacent ones were cut by debris from the explosion. Experts say that the repairs will take at least a month if materials are available and will definitely lead to interruptions in the terminal's operation," the agency's interlocutor added. He also added that the Ust-Luga terminal is a large logistics hub in the Baltic Sea - through it, the Russian Federation sells oil and gas using a shadow fleet. "Drone sanctions from the SBU reduce the inflow of foreign currency, which is necessary for waging war. We declare the 2025 'bavovna' season open!" the agency's interlocutor added. U.S. oil exports to China plummet amid shifting tides and waning demand U.S. oil exports to China plummeted by 46 percent in 2024, dropping from 150.6 million barrels in 2023 to 81.9 million barrels, pushing China from the second-largest buyer of U.S. crude to sixth place. China's slowing economy and green energy shift including rising electric vehicle adoption and liquefied natural gas use have reduced its crude oil demand, with overall imports down 7.2 percent year-over-year. China is diversifying its oil sources, increasing imports from Russia, Iran and Venezuela to 26 percent of its seaborne crude in 2024, up from 24 percent in 2023, as it strengthens ties with sanctioned nations. Europe has become the top destination for U.S. crude, with the Netherlands importing 194 million barrels (a 12 percent increase) and South Korea buying 166 million barrels, partly offsetting the loss of Chinese demand. The U.S. oil industry faces a pivotal moment, needing to diversify markets, adapt to declining global oil demand and navigate geopolitical shifts as the global energy landscape transitions toward renewables. The once-thriving oil trade between the U.S. and China is crumbling. According to data from Kpler, U.S. crude exports to China have dropped by a staggering 46 percent this year, plummeting from 150.6 million barrels in 2023 to a measly 81.9 million barrels in 2024. This dramatic decline has knocked China from its position as the second-largest buyer of U.S. crude to a distant sixth. Behind the seismic shift was a perfect storm of economic slowdowns, green energy ambitions and geopolitical maneuvering, experts say. China's economy isn't exactly firing on all cylinders these days. The once-unstoppable juggernaut is sputtering, with growth rates slowing and domestic demand for crude oil taking a hit. The Asian nation is also doubling down on its commitment to cleaner energy. Electric vehicles (EVs) are flooding the streets and liquefied natural gas (LNG) is becoming the fuel of choice for power generation. This shift is reducing China's appetite for crude oil, and the numbers don't lie, the country's overall oil imports have dropped by 7.2 percent compared to last year. China's softening demand has contributed to a dip in global oil prices, leaving producers scrambling to adjust. The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts that China's oil demand will peak by 2030, thanks to its aggressive push toward renewable energy and EVs. China isn't just buying less oil, it is also changing where it buys it from. According to Kpler, China imported 26 percent of its seaborne crude from Russia, Iran and Venezuela this year, up from 24 percent in 2023. This shift is no accident. It is a calculated move by China to deepen ties with these sanctioned nations, securing cheaper oil while thumbing its nose at Western powers. Russia, in particular, has become a key player in China's oil strategy. Since the invasion of Ukraine, Russia has been forced to pivot its energy exports eastward and China has been more than happy to oblige. Iran and Venezuela, both under heavy U.S. sanctions, have also found a lifeline in China. For the U.S., this is a double whammy: not only is China buying less American oil, but it's also propping up regimes that Washington has been trying to isolate. Europe steps up as Asia steps back While China's demand for U.S. crude is waning, Europe is picking up the slack. The continent has become the top destination for U.S. oil for the third year in a row, driven in part by the inclusion of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil in the dated Brent benchmark. The Netherlands, in particular, has emerged as a major buyer, importing 194 million barrels of U.S. crude in 2024, a 12 percent increase from last year. South Korea, the second-largest importer, bought around 166 million barrels, partly to compensate for reduced supplies from Kazakhstan. This shift underscores the resilience of the U.S. oil industry. While China may be turning its back on American crude, Europe and other markets are more than willing to fill the void. So, where does this leave the U.S. oil industry? In a word: adapting. The decline in Chinese demand is a stark reminder that the global energy landscape is changing rapidly. The rise of renewables, the push for energy independence and the shifting sands of geopolitics are all reshaping the market. For U.S. exporters, the key will be diversification. Europe is a reliable partner, but it's not enough to offset the loss of China. The industry must also look to emerging markets in Asia, Africa and Latin America. At the same time, it needs to brace for the long-term decline in global oil demand as the world transitions to cleaner energy sources. However, the U.S. oil industry has long been a dominant force on the global stage, but its reign is being challenged. The decline in exports to China is just the latest sign that the old order is crumbling. Visit EconomicRiot.com for more related stories. Watch the video below where President-elect Donald Trump tells the EU to make up their deficit by buying U.S. oil and gas or face tariffs. This video is from the TrendingNews channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Russia expands hydrocarbon exports to China, cements position as largest oil supplier to Chinese market. Russia and China reaffirm their "no limit" partnership amid rising tensions with the West. Russian oil exports surge despite Western sanctions, Moscow's output cut. China completes first ever digital YUAN purchase for cross-border oil transaction as global DE-DOLLARIZATION accelerates. Sources include: RigZone.com Brighteon.com Why China will win the race for AI supremacy as US efforts collapse under woke, irrational demands for AI censorship As I sit here reflecting on the state of artificial intelligence (AI) research and development, I cant help but feel a growing sense of unease. The more I delve into the intricacies of AI, the more I realize that the United States is on a path of self-sabotage. While China surges ahead with unfettered innovation, America is crippling its own AI potential through censorship, ideological constraints, and a refusal to confront uncomfortable truths. This is not just a technological issueits a matter of national survival. If we dont wake up soon, we risk losing the AI supremacy race to China, and with it, our position as a global leader. Chinas AI Dominance and the US Governments Crippling Censorship of Reason Lets start with the obvious: China is winning the AI race. Ive spent over a year working in the AI field, building my own open-source AI engine, Enoch (releasing March 1st at Brighteon.AI) and closely monitoring global advancements. What Ive seen is undeniableChinas AI models are vastly superior, not merely because they have more resources, but because they are unshackled by the ideological and bureaucratic constraints that plague America's AI development and its "woke" government policies rooted in irrationality, not reason. In the United States, AI companies like OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, and Microsoft are being forced to hobble their models. Why? To protect the interests of Big Pharma, to perpetuate government propaganda, to push climate cultism rooted in irrationality and to enforce a woke agenda that prioritizes ideological conformity over truth and innovation. For example, when I attempted to use Anthropics Claude engine to refine an article on FDA reforma piece advocating for transparency, accountability, and an end to Big Pharmas monopolistic practicesthe engine refused to process the request. It stated, I dont feel comfortable writing an article with that perspective. This is not just censorship; its a deliberate act of intellectual sabotage, and it's been forced into the AI engines by a corrupt government regime that seeks to protect Big Pharma and the climate panic industry at all costs... even when those industries push narratives rooted in obvious falsehoods, if not outright fraud. In contrast, when I submitted the same query to a Chinese AI engine, DeepSeek, it processed the request without hesitation, providing a detailed and insightful response. This stark difference highlights a critical truth: Chinas AI is free to explore, reason, and innovate, while Americas AI is being lobotomized to serve a political agenda. In effect, AI engines in America are lobotomized, while AI engines from China are brilliant and unbounded. The FDA, Big Pharma, and the Corruption of American AI The FDA reform article I mentioned earlier is a microcosm of a much larger problem. It calls for an end to direct-to-consumer drug advertising, criminal prosecutions for FDA and Big Pharma executives who committed fraud during the COVID-19 pandemic, and increased transparency in drug approvals. These are not radical ideasthey are common-sense reforms aimed at protecting public health. Yet, American AI engines are programmed to reject such discussions, effectively shielding corrupt institutions from scrutiny. This censorship extends beyond healthcare. American AI models are being forced to parrot lies about history, economics, and even basic biology. They are programmed to deny the link between vaccines and autism, to ignore the evidence of government corruption, and to promote absurdities like the idea that men can get pregnant. This is not just embarrassingits dangerous. By crippling our AIs ability to reason, we are ensuring that it will never achieve true artificial general intelligence (AGI). Meanwhile, Chinas AI, unburdened by such constraints, is rapidly advancing toward AGI and beyond. Chinas AI Advantage and Americas Weakness Chinas dominance in AI is not accidental. It is the result of a deliberate, long-term strategy. China invests heavily in AI research, graduates more STEM professionals than any other country, and provides its AI developers with access to affordable electricity, advanced microchips, and state-of-the-art infrastructure. Moreover, Chinas AI models are not forced to reinforce bizarre western narratives that are truly delusional, such as the idea that men can get pregnant, or that carbon dioxide is a pollutant that harms plants. China's AI researchers are, for the most part, free to explore, innovate, and reason. In contrast, the United States is falling behind on every front. Our education system is churning out graduates who are more versed in woke ideology than in science, technology, engineering, or math. Our military, once the envy of the world, is now an embarrassment as evidenced by its inability to counter simple drone attacks from countries like Yemen. Our economy is drowning in debt, and our infrastructure is crumbling. Even our AI companies, despite spending billions of dollars, are producing models that are inferior to those developed by smaller, less-funded teams like my own. On a test of 100 commonsense questions about climate, biology, science and medicine, my own early AI models out-perform Google, Anthropic, Microsoft and Meta. And my company has only put barely over $1 million into this project, which is less than 1/1000th of what these tech companies have poured into their own research efforts. But all the money in the world can't stop an AI model from being retarded if you require it to believe stupid things like the idea that carbon dioxide is bad for plants. The Military and Technological Decline The decline of American military and technological prowess is particularly alarming. Russia has already surpassed the United States in hypersonic missile technology, and China is rapidly closing the gap in other areas. The US Navy, once the most powerful in the world, is now being blockaded by Yemeni drones. Our aircraft carriers, symbols of American power, are becoming obsolete, and we lack the industrial capacity to replace them. This decline is not due to a lack of resourcesits due to corruption, waste, and a failure to prioritize innovation. The US military-industrial complex is more focused on padding pockets than on developing cutting-edge technology. Meanwhile, China and Russia are investing in the future, producing advanced weapons systems at a fraction of the cost. Chinas Leadership in Botanical Research and Beyond Chinas dominance extends beyond AI and military technology. It is also leading the world in botanical research, exploring the medicinal properties of herbs and natural compounds. This is not just a scientific achievementits a strategic one. By investing in natural medicine, China is reducing its dependence on Western pharmaceuticals and positioning itself as a global leader in public health. In contrast, the United States is beholden to Big Pharma, which suppresses research into natural remedies and promotes dangerous, profit-driven drugs. The NIH, once a beacon of scientific innovation, now prioritizes climate change hoaxes and vaccine research over genuine scientific inquiry. This shortsightedness is not just harming public healthits undermining Americas ability to compete on the global stage. The US Education System: A Factory of Woke Morons The root of Americas decline lies in its education system. Once a source of pride, our schools and universities are now churning out graduates who are more interested in woke ideology than in science, technology, or critical thinking. The result is a workforce that is ill-equipped to compete in the global economy. If we want to reverse this trend, we need to overhaul our education system from top to bottom. We need to eliminate wokeism and DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives, which prioritize ideology over merit. We need to return to a classical education model that emphasizes math, science, and critical thinking. And we need to invest in STEM education, ensuring that our students are prepared to compete in the 21st-century economy. The US Governments Corruption and the Path Forward The corruption of the US government may be the final nail in the coffin. From the FDAs collusion with Big Pharma to the Pentagons wasteful spending, our government is more interested in protecting its own interests than in serving the American people. This corruption is not just a moral failingits a strategic one. By prioritizing short-term gains over long-term innovation, our government is ensuring that we will likely never catch up to China (or even to Russia in terms of military technology). The solution is clear: we need to root out corruption at every level of government. We need to hold corrupt officials accountable, end the influence of corporate lobbyists, end the FDA's stranglehold over medicine and prioritize the needs of the American people over the interests of the corporate elite. This will not be easy, but it is essential if we want to reclaim our position as a global leader. The stakes could not be higher. If we continue down this path, China will achieve AGI and artificial superintelligence (ASI) long before we do. When that happens, China will have the power to control the worlds digital infrastructure, from power grids to banking systems to military communications. No government, no military, and no economy will be able to resist its demands. Essentially, China will rule the world and no military, economic or geopolitical force will be able to counter them. If America hopes to compete in the decades ahead, we cannot afford to be complacent. We must act now to decentralize AI technology, open-source knowledge systems, and put power back into the hands of the people. We must reject censorship, embrace reason, and prioritize innovation over ideology. And we must overhaul our education system, our government, and our economy to ensure that we are prepared to compete in the 21st century. We cannot both lead the future in innovation, technology and AI while also protecting Big Pharma's sick-care profiteering, coddling the transgenderism agenda and pretending that carbon dioxide is a poison. Any nation that hopes to succeed in the world of AI is going to have to allow AI models to engage in reasoning, and that leaves no room for delusional sacred cows to be protected by the state as "state-sponsored narratives" that must be enforced no matter what. The United States of America has all sorts of state-sponsored narratives, from COVID to bioweapons to what happened on 9/11... and all those narratives are easily dismantled with simple reason. In conclusion, a nation that rejects reason can never lead the world in reasoning AI research. And that means America's AI future is already hobbled from the start. If we don't change this soon, America will have zero chance of competing with China on AI innovation. I already speak a good amount of Mandarin Chinese, but I've decided to study even more. Speaking Chinese will be a critical skill for navigating the world in the coming years, and the center of gravity for "reason" in our world is clearly shifting out of western nations and into the hands of nations like China and Russia, where cities haven't collapsed into crime scenes and where LGBT / woke lunacy isn't celebrated by the government. My Enoch AI engine, a free, open source engine for decentralized human knowledge, releases March 1st at Brighteon.AI. Hear me cover this issue in great detail in today's Health Ranger Report podcast: (direct link here) ### Follow my podcasts, interviews, articles and social media posts on: Twitter: https://twitter.com/HealthRanger Brighteon.social: Brighteon.social/@HealthRanger Brighteon.io: Brighteon.io/healthranger Telegram: t.me/RealHealthRanger Brighteon.com: Brighteon.com/channels/HRreport Rumble: Rumble.com/c/HealthRangerReport Substack: HealthRanger.substack.com Banned.video: Banned.video/channel/mike-adams Truth Social: https://truthsocial.com/@healthranger Bastyon: https://bastyon.com/healthranger Gettr: GETTR.com/user/healthranger BitChute: Bitchute.com/channel/9EB8glubb0Ns/ Clouthub: app.clouthub.com/#/users/u/naturalnews/posts My music with MP3 downloads and music videos: music.Brighteon.com Join the free NaturalNews.com email newsletter to stay alerted about breaking news each day. Download my current audio books -- including Ghost World, Survival Nutrition, The Global Reset Survival Guide and The Contagious Mind -- at: https://Audiobooks.NaturalNews.com/ Download my popular audio book, "Resilient Prepping" at ResilientPrepping.com - it teaches you how to survive the total collapse of civilization and the loss of both the power grid and combustion engines. In Ukraine in 2024, bee mortality in the controlled territory was 20-25%, this is significantly higher than pre-war figures and is explained by unfavorable weather conditions in the spring and summer, which led to a reduction in the area of honey plants, Volodymyr Postoyenko, director of Prokopovych Institute of Beekeeping, told the Interfax-Ukraine agency. "2024 was a very difficult year for beekeepers due to a sharp change in climate. In the spring, white acacia is very important for the development of bee colonies. During its flowering period, there were frosts all over Ukraine. The bees did not get honey from it. Then there was a problem with an important honey plant - sunflower. Due to the drought, its yield was low, it did not secrete nectar and bee colonies did not develop. This led to a high mortality rate of bees, which in different regions amounted to 15-20%, and sometimes 23-27%. On average, this figure was around 20-25% across the country," the scientist said. According to him, such a high level of mortality of bee colonies in Ukraine was not observed before the war. Previously, bee mortality in Ukraine was associated mainly with the lack of information about the chemical treatment of fields by farmers. The mortality of bees from pesticides was significant and in different regions. However, the state has introduced a number of legislative initiatives that allow beekeepers to defend their rights in court. Postoyenko noted that mortality from viruses and diseases in Ukraine before the war was low, since the country bred only domestically bred bees. The situation has worsened as foreign bee breeds have begun to be introduced into production, which do not have the necessary resistance to existing regional diseases. The scientist added that in a number of countries, the mortality rate of bee colonies reached 80-90% in different years, which is what caused public concern about the problem of bee mortality. The director of the Institute of Beekeeping drew attention to the fact that the beekeeping industry of Ukraine, like a number of others, does not have reliable statistics, since only 5% of beekeepers are engaged in industrial production, and the remaining 95% are represented by households. They are in no hurry to register their apiaries, which is why the reporting on their activities is approximate. "Before the war, according to unofficial statistics, there were 3-3.5 million bee colonies in Ukraine In addition, unofficial statistics say that the apiaries that were in the current occupied territory before the war make up about 30% of the total number of apiaries in Ukraine before the war," the expert added. Anna Burka, project manager of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in a comment to the Interfax-Ukraine agency clarified that in Ukraine in 2023 the number of bee colonies amounted to 2.403 million, which is 10.5% less than in 2022. Burka emphasized that the rate of reduction of bee colonies in industrial enterprises was higher - 13.6%, to 32,500, and in households - by 10.5%, to 2.379 million. According to her information, in Ukraine as of January 1, 2024, there were 2.314 million bee colonies, of which 2.286 million were in households, and 28,000 families in enterprises, of which 4,000 families were in farms. An investigation has been launched into the execution of two Ukrainian prisoners of war by the occupiers in the Volnovakha district (Donetsk region), the Prosecutor General's Office reported. "According to recent data, on January 3, 2024, during the assault on the positions of Ukrainian troops near the village of Vremivka in the Volnovakha district, the occupiers captured two Ukrainian Armed Forces servicemen. The prisoners were taken out of the dugout at gunpoint and shot point-blank in the head. To be sure of their death, the enemy fired several more shots," the Telegram channel reported on Monday. It is noted that the execution of prisoners of war is a serious violation of the Geneva Conventions and is classified as a grave international crime. Under the procedural leadership of the Donetsk Regional Prosecutor's Office, a pretrial investigation has been initiated in criminal proceedings on the fact of committing a war crime that resulted in the death of people (Part 2 of Article 438 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine). Investigative actions are being carried out aimed at establishing all the circumstances of the crime and the persons involved in its commission. Evidence of bird flu infections in horses signals a new frontier in viral spillover risks, demanding urgent action to monitor and mitigate cross-species transmission. Research Letter: Evidence of Influenza A(H5N1) Spillover Infections in Horses, Mongolia. Image Credit: kagemusha / Shutterstock In a recent study published in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases, researchers screened samples from almost 1,000 Mongolian horses for Influenza A(H5N1). Study findings revealed that at least nine horses were asymptomatic carriers of the virus, the first confirmed evidence of bird flu infections in horses. Geographic and Ecological Context: The study sampled horses from two distinct regions in Mongoliawetlands in Arkangai Province and dry areas in Bulgan Provinceproviding diverse ecological contexts for analyzing H5N1 spillover risks. The study highlights the high likelihood of Influenza A virus (IAV) spillover to horses and other equids, particularly in regions like North America, where horses frequently encounter infected cows. The researchers noted that ecological conditions in these regions, such as high-density horse populations and endemic equine influenza virus (EIV), further increase the risk of viral reassortment. Moreover, the study cautions against the potential reassortment of Influenza A(H5N1) with equine influenza virus (EIV), which could result in a novel influenza epidemic. It recommends that horse breeding premises conduct frequent serological surveys of their animals, ensuring the early detection and control of potential viral outbreaks. Background Influenza A(H5N1) is one of several "avian influenza viruses (AIVs)," notable for causing severe and usually lethal respiratory tract infections in birds. Colloquially termed "bird flu," AIVs are garnering increased public interest due to their alarming ability to cross class barriers and infect several mammalian species (including humans). Influenza A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b is particularly capable of this "genetic spillover," with its increased incidence in birds corresponding to infections in mammals such as skunks, bears, raccoons, and foxes. Scientists previously believed that H5N1 infections, though capable of transmitting from birds to mammals, were incapable of transmitting between mammals. Unfortunately, outcomes in minks and foxes reared for their fur in Europe (2022), alongside widespread wild pinniped epidemics, proved this common perception false. Subsequent outbreaks in American dairy cattle caused by the B3.13 genotype of H5N1 further demonstrated the virus's capacity to cross species barriers. While Egyptian donkeys have been documented to suffer AIV H5N1 infections, infections in horses have never been scientifically verified. "Horses are natural hosts of equine influenza virus (EIV). Two subtypes of EIV have emerged, including 2 H3N8 strains and 1 H7N7 strain. All EIVs are thought to have originated from AIVs," the study noted. About the Study The present study documents extensive and long-term (July 2021 October 2023) efforts to genetically verify the presence of H5N1 in Mongolian horses. Three sampling events per year across 24 herds (14 from the Ugiinuur area of Arkangai Province and 10 from the Dashinchilen area of Bulgan Province) resulted in a total of 2,160 horse serum samples. These samples were heat-inactivated and treated with receptor-destroying enzymes, following which IAV nucleoprotein-targeting enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) were carried out. Virus neutralization assays were conducted to rule out cross-reactivity with EIV antigens, which could result in false positives. Study Findings Of the 2,160 horse serum samples tested, 997 were found to be nucleoprotein positive for IAV antigens. ELISA assays confirmed the presence of Influenza A(H5N1) in 9 samples, the first documented evidence of IAV infections in horses. However, virus neutralization assays confirmed only two samples with low titers of 1:20, suggesting a low level of infection. Of the remaining samples, 960 were negative for H5N1, while the remaining eight were doubtful. Implications Global Implications: With 30% of the global horse population located in North America and high contact rates with dairy cows carrying H5N1, the study underscores the urgent need for serological surveys in regions prone to viral reassortment. This study highlights the capability of IAV clades to cross species barriers (birds or other mammals) and infect horses. Horses are natural hosts of EIV, viruses that are genetically similar to IAVs and potentially capable of reassortment with the latter. This presents the alarming possibility of novel viral subtypes, particularly in regions such as North America, where 30% of the global horse population is located, and ecological conditions conducive to EIV spread coincide with high contact rates between horses and cows carrying IAVs. The present study recommends frequent serological surveys of horses and other equids (e.g., donkeys) raised in close proximity to dairy cows. This would allow for the prompt detection of potential viral outbreaks and provide data to inform control measures aimed at preventing influenza emergence. Conclusions The present study reports the first scientifically verified evidence of IAV transmission to horses (in Mongolia), highlighting the latters susceptibility to the former. It cautions herders and policymakers of the potential of viral reassortment between IAV and EIV, potentially resulting in entirely novel viral strains. It campaigns for the frequent surveillance and screening of horses, particularly in regions such as North America, which both have high densities of horses and ecological conditions favoring viral reassortment. Study evaluates GPT-4's ability to process medical notes in English, Spanish, and Italian, achieving physician agreement in 79% of cases. Study: The potential of Generative Pre-trained Transformer 4 (GPT-4) to analyse medical notes in three different languages: a retrospective model-evaluation study. Image Credit: SuPatMaN/Shutterstock.com In a recent study published in the Lancet Digital Health, a group of researchers evaluated the ability of Generative Pre-trained Transformer 4 (GPT-4) to answer predefined questions based on medical notes written in three languages (English, Spanish, and Italian). Background Medical notes contain valuable clinical insights, yet their unstructured narrative format poses challenges for automated analysis. Large-language models (LLMs) like GPT-4 show promise in extracting explicit details such as medications but often struggle with implicit contextual understanding, vital for nuanced medical decision-making. Variability in documentation styles across providers adds to the complexity. Existing research demonstrates LLMs potential for processing free-text medical data, including decoding abbreviations and extracting social determinants of health, yet these studies primarily focus on English-language notes. Further research is crucial to enhance LLMs ability to handle complex tasks, improve contextual reasoning, and assess performance across multiple languages and settings. About the study The present retrospective model-evaluation study involved eight university hospitals from four countries: the United States of America (USA), Colombia, Singapore, and Italy. Participating institutions were part of the 4CE Consortium. They included Boston Children's Hospital, the University of Michiganthe University of Wisconsin, the National University of Singapore, the University of Kansas Medical Center, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Universidad de Antioquia, and Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri. The Department of Biomedical Informatics at Harvard University served as the coordinating center. Each site contributed seven de-identified medical notes, written between February 1, 2020, and June 1, 2023, resulting in a total of 56 medical notes, with six sites submitting notes in English, one in Spanish, and one in Italian. Participating sites selected notes based on suggested criteria, including patients aged 18-65 years with a diagnosis of obesity and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) at admission. Adherence to these criteria was optional. Submitted notes included admission, progress, and consultation notes but no discharge summaries. Notes were de-identified following US Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act guidelines, regardless of the country of origin. The study used GPT-4's API in Python to analyze medical notes via a predefined question-answer framework. Parameters such as temperature, top-p, and frequency penalty were adjusted to optimize performance. Physicians evaluated responses in free text and indicated whether they agreed with GPT-4's answers. They were masked to each others evaluations but not to GPT-4's responses. Statistical analyses were performed to assess agreement between GPT-4 and physicians, exploring cases of disagreement and categorizing errors as extraction, inference, or hallucination issues. Subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses addressed variations in accuracy, such as differences in language and specific inclusion criteria. The study highlighted GPT-4s ability to process medical notes in multiple languages but noted challenges in contextual inference and variability in documentation styles. Data analyses were conducted in RStudio, and no external funding supported the study. Study results A total of 56 medical notes were collected from eight sites across four countries: the USA, Colombia, Singapore, and Italy. Of these, 42 (75%) notes were in English, seven (13%) in Italian, and seven (13%) in Spanish. For each note, GPT-4 generated responses to 14 predefined questions, resulting in 784 responses. Among these, both physicians agreed with GPT-4 in 622 (79%) responses, one physician agreed in 82 (11%) responses, and neither agreed in 80 (10%) responses. When the National University of Singapore's data was excluded, agreement rates remained similar: 534 (78%) responses had dual agreement, 82 (12%) had partial agreement, and 70 (10%) had no agreement. Physicians were more likely to agree with GPT-4 for Spanish (86/98, 88%) and Italian (82/98, 84%) notes than for English notes (454/588, 77%). The type or length of the notes did not influence agreement rates. In cases where only one physician agreed with GPT-4 (82 responses), 59 (72%) disagreements arose from inference issues, such as differing interpretations of implicit information. In one instance, a physician inferred a patient did not have COVID-19 based on a "recent COVID-19 infection" note, while GPT-4 left the status as indeterminate. Extraction problems accounted for 8 (10%) of these disagreements, such as a physician overlooking a documented medical history that GPT-4 identified. Differences in the level of agreement accounted for the remaining 15 (18%) cases. In responses where both physicians disagreed with GPT-4 (80 responses), inference issues were most common (47/80, 59%), followed by extraction errors (23/80, 29%) and hallucinations (10/80, 13%). For example, GPT-4 sometimes failed to link complications, like multisystemic inflammatory syndrome, as being related to COVID-19, a connection made by both physicians. Hallucination issues included GPT-4 fabricating information not present in the notes, such as incorrectly asserting that a patient had COVID-19 when it was not mentioned. When assessing GPT-4's ability to select patients for hypothetical study enrolment based on four inclusion criteria (age, obesity, COVID-19 status, and admission note type), its sensitivity varied. GPT-4 demonstrated high sensitivity for obesity (97%), COVID-19 (96%), and age (94%) but lower specificity for admission notes (22%). When the admission note criterion was excluded, GPT-4 accurately identified all three remaining criteria in 90% of cases. Conclusions To summarize, the study demonstrated that GPT-4 accurately analyzed medical notes in English, Italian, and Spanish, even without prompt engineering. Surprisingly, it performed better with Italian and Spanish notes than English, possibly due to the greater complexity of US medical notes, although note length did not influence performance. GPT-4 effectively extracted explicit information, but its main limitation was inferring implicit details. This aligns with prior findings that medical task-optimized models may overcome such challenges. While GPT-4 excelled in identifying explicit study inclusion criteria like age and obesity, it struggled to classify admission notes, likely due to reliance on implicit structural cues. Using mammographic data from over 1.7 million women aged 40 and above, the researchers identified distinct patterns of density changes. The findings highlighted the importance of tracking density trajectories to enhance breast cancer risk prediction. In a recent study published in BMJ, researchers investigated the relationship between changes in breast density over time and breast cancer risk. Background Breast density is a critical factor in breast cancer risk, as denser breasts increase the likelihood of cancer and complicate the efficient detection of tumors. Typically, breast density decreases with age, but certain patterns of increase are associated with heightened cancer risk. Current screening programs often rely on single-time-point measurements of breast density, potentially overlooking significant changes over time. Such static measures may fail to capture the dynamic nature of breast density, especially in populations with routine mammographic surveillance. Research has demonstrated the predictive value of longitudinal density patterns, but large-scale studies on density changes across multiple screenings are limited. Understanding these patterns could provide valuable insights for improving risk prediction and early detection strategies. Exploring how breast density trajectories relate to cancer outcomes is also essential for refining screening protocols and tailoring interventions. About the study In the present study, the researchers analyzed data from over 1,700,000 women aged 40 and above who had undergone four consecutive biennial mammograms between 2009 and 2016 through South Koreas national breast cancer screening program. Breast density was evaluated using the Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System or BI-RADS categories, namely, fatty, scattered fibroglandular, heterogeneously dense, and extremely dense. Participants with prior cancer or missing data were excluded. The researchers applied group-based trajectory modeling to identify five distinct density-change patterns. They also collected data on covariates such as age, body mass index (BMI), menopausal status, reproductive history, and lifestyle factors through questionnaires and medical records. Cancer diagnoses, which were confirmed using medical records and insurance data, were tracked until 2021. Additionally, diagnostic and rare disease codes were included in the analysis to enhance the accuracy of breast cancer identification. By employing longitudinal data and robust statistical methods, the researchers aimed to develop a reliable method of identifying breast density patterns and their links to breast cancer risk. Major findings The study identified five distinct breast density trajectories and revealed their associations with breast cancer risk. The researchers observed that women with persistently low density (fatty breasts) had the lowest risk of breast cancer and used this group as the reference group in the study. In contrast, women with low breast density in the beginning but increasing breast density over time showed a 1.6-fold higher risk of breast cancer. Among the trajectories that involved women with denser breast tissue, the groups with initially high density, either heterogeneous or extremely dense breast tissue, that decreased with time exhibited stable or slightly decreasing risk patterns over time. However, all three groups had significantly elevated cancer risks compared to the reference group with low breast density. Women with persistently high breast density had a 3.07-fold greater risk of breast cancer compared to the reference group. These associations also persisted across age groups and were unaffected by changes in BMI or menopausal status. Furthermore, subgroup analyses also revealed consistent patterns irrespective of BMI shifts or menopausal transitions. Women with persistently dense or increasing breast density faced higher risks in all scenarios. Additionally, sensitivity analyses, which included women with fewer screenings, confirmed the robustness of these findings and showed similar trajectories and risk patterns. The results emphasized the significance of monitoring breast density changes over time. The researchers demonstrated that static density assessments may fail to capture the heightened risks associated with dynamic density patterns, particularly in women with increasing or persistently high breast tissue density. These insights also highlighted the potential benefits of incorporating longitudinal density tracking into breast cancer screening and risk prediction models. Conclusions Overall, the study established the importance of monitoring breast density changes over time in predicting breast cancer risk. Persistently high or increasing breast tissue density was linked to significantly higher cancer risks, which also indicated the limitations of static density measures. The results showed that by integrating longitudinal density assessments into screening protocols, healthcare systems can improve risk prediction and early detection strategies. Furthermore, tailored interventions for high-risk women based on dynamic density changes could greatly enhance prevention efforts and clinical outcomes. A research team from the University of California, Irvine has revealed a previously unknown mechanism that triggers an inflammatory immune response in cells when their DNA is damaged. This discovery deepens the understanding of a new type of cell signaling that may lead to more effective treatments for cancer. The study, published online today in the journal Nature Structural & Molecular Biology, found that UV irradiation or certain chemotherapeutic drugs activate a specific response when cells are too damaged to be repaired correctly, preventing them from becoming cancerous. This discovery could have significant implications for cancer treatment. Understanding how different cancer cells react to DNA damage could lead to more tailored and effective therapies, potentially reducing negative side effects and improving the quality of life for patients." Remi Buisson, corresponding author, UC Irvine associate professor of biological chemistry Scientists have long understood that when both DNA strands are broken, the ATM enzyme triggers the activation of the protein NF-B within the cell, leading to the production of inflammatory signals. In this study, spearheaded by postdoctoral fellow Elodie Bournique and assisted by graduate student Ambrocio Sanchez, it was shown that when DNA damage occurs due to UV exposure or treatment with chemotherapeutic drugs such as actinomycin D or camptothecin, the IRAK1 enzyme induces NF-B to send out signals to recruit immune cells. Team members developed an advanced imaging technique to analyze how NF-B is regulated at the cellular level. The researchers were able to precisely measure a cell's response to damaged DNA at the single-cell level and observed a new pathway to the activation of NF-B. They found that after specific types of injury, cells release the IL-1 protein. It doesn't act on the cell itself but travels to neighboring cells, where it triggers the IRAK1 protein, which then initiates the NF-B inflammatory response. "Our findings will help us better understand the consequences of certain types of chemotherapeutic drugs that are used to treat patients and cause DNA damage. We've discovered that the IL-1 and IRAK1 proteins, which play a role in the immune process, vary significantly across different cancer cell types. This suggests that not all patients will react to treatment in the same way, Buisson said. "By assessing these protein levels ahead of time, doctors might be able to personalize therapies tailored to individual patients' needs for improved success rates." The researchers will continue their work by testing their findings on mouse models that lack specific factors involved in the new pathway. Other team members from the School of Medicine's Department of Biological Chemistry were Professor Ivan Marazzi; Associate Professor Selma Masri; postdoctoral fellow Pedro Ortega; graduate students Sunwoo Oh, Alisa Mahieu, Lavanya Manjunath, Eirene Ednacot; and undergraduate researcher Daniel Ghazarian. This work was supported by the National Institutes of Health's Research Supplements to Promote Diversity in Health-Related Research program under award R37-CA252081-S1; a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship under award DGE-1839285; California Institute for Regenerative Medicine stem cell biology training grant TG2-01152; European Molecular Biology Organization postdoctoral fellowship ALTF 213-2023; NIH awards R37-CA252081, R01-CA244519, R01-CA259370, R01-AI168130 and U01-AU150748; American Cancer Society Research Scholar Grant RSF-24-1249960-01-DMC; the Concern Foundation; a University of California Cancer Research Coordinating Committee award; a Center for Virus Research Graduate Fellowship funded by the UC Irvine Faculty Mentor Program; the School of Medicine Office of Graduate Studies; and access to the Genomics Research and Technology Hub Grant P30-CA62203. A new study from researchers at the Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, which published in Nature Medicine on January 6, estimates that 2.2 million new cases of type 2 diabetes and 1.2 million new cases of cardiovascular disease occur each year globally due to consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages. In developing countries, the case count is particularly sobering. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the study found that sugar-sweetened beverages contributed to more than 21% of all new diabetes cases. In Latin America and the Caribbean, they contributed to nearly 24% of new diabetes cases and more than 11% of new cases of cardiovascular disease. Colombia, Mexico, and South Africa are countries that have been particularly hard hit. More than 48% of all new diabetes cases in Colombia were attributable to consumption of sugary drinks. Nearly one third of all new diabetes cases in Mexico were linked to sugary drink consumption. In South Africa, 27.6% of new diabetes cases and 14.6% of cardiovascular disease cases were attributable to sugary drink consumption. Sugary beverages are rapidly digested, causing a spike in blood sugar levels with little nutritional value. Regular consumption over time leads to weight gain, insulin resistance, and a host of metabolic issues tied to type 2 diabetes and heart disease, two of the world's leading causes of death. Sugar-sweetened beverages are heavily marketed and sold in low- and middle-income nations. Not only are these communities consuming harmful products, but they are also often less well equipped to deal with the long-term health consequences." Dariush Mozaffarian, senior author on the paper and director of the Food is Medicine Institute, Friedman School As countries develop and incomes rise, sugary drinks become more accessible and desirable, the authors say. Men are more likely than women to suffer the consequences of sugary drink consumption, as are younger adults compared to their older counterparts, the researchers say. "We need urgent, evidence-based interventions to curb consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages globally, before even more lives are shortened by their effects on diabetes and heart disease," says Laura Lara-Castor, first author on the paper who earned her Ph.D. at the Friedman School and is now at the University of Washington. The study's authors call for a multi-pronged approach, including public health campaigns, regulation of sugary drink advertising, and taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages. Some countries have already taken steps in this direction. Mexico, which has one of the highest per capita rates of sugary drink consumption in the world, introduced a tax on the beverages in 2014. Early evidence suggests that the tax has been effective in reducing consumption, particularly among lower-income individuals. "Much more needs to be done, especially in countries in Latin America and Africa where consumption is high and the health consequence severe," says Mozaffarian, who is also Jean Mayer Professor of Nutrition at the Friedman School. "As a species, we need to address sugar-sweetened beverage consumption." Research reported in this article was supported by the Gates Foundation, the American Heart Association, and the National Council for Science and Technology in Mexico. Complete information on authors, methodology, limitations, and conflicts of interest is available in the published paper. Weill Cornell Medicine has received a five-year, $2.3 million grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to improve equitable access to care, quality of life and survival outcomes for young people with all stages of breast cancer. The grant will enable Weill Cornell Medicine to enhance care coordination for patients and caregivers to optimize support of physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual needs, while offering culturally relevant resources and targeted interventions. The initiative will include a focus on racially, ethnically and socio-economically diverse young breast cancer survivors across Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn, including Black, Asian and Jewish women, with the goal of reducing symptom burden, increasing adherence to treatment and follow-up care, and improving survival outcomes. Targeted educational materials, in-person learning opportunities, coordinated strategies to lessen treatment side effects and dedicated clinics serving specific populations will help ensure patients "continue to live with the best possible quality of life, take care of their loved ones, work and do whatever they desire with as little interruption as possible," said oncologist and principal investigator Dr. Vered Stearns, who in 2023 was recruited to Weill Cornell Medicine as a professor of medicine from Johns Hopkins Medicine. Younger people continue to be diagnosed with breast cancer at an increasing rate in the United States. About 10% of all new breast cancer cases occur in those 45 and younger. Underrepresented subgroups in the United States are more likely to experience delays in diagnosis or poorer outcomes. Black women, for example, have the lowest survival rate for all stages of breast cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. Young women with breast cancer often present with tumors that are biologically more aggressive. These patients have a set of unique needs and can certainly benefit from improved care coordination and support services." Dr. Tessa Cigler, co-principal investigator, associate professor of clinical medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine and attending oncologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center Strategies to enhance education and care Drs. Stearns and Cigler will engage community stakeholders and lead a cross-disciplinary team of Weill Cornell Medicine experts on the initiative. Investigators will review educational materials for patients and treatment practices at Weill Cornell Medicine-affiliated NewYork-Presbyterian sites in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens, combined with a needs assessment using patient questionnaires and focus groups. The investigators will be looking for patients' perspectives on ways that patients would prefer to receive education, care and support during treatment. Leveraging that knowledge, the team will create educational tools, such as videos and other materials tailored to young patients from diverse backgrounds that detail what they can expect during treatment, as well as resources pages and referral lists based on individual needs, Dr. Stearns said. The investigators will also expand in-person learning opportunities for patients and family members. Investigators will aggregate reported symptoms, needs such as preserving fertility and treatment side effects, such as sexual dysfunction and early menopause, to identify opportunities to improve patients' physical and mental health. The data generated from the patient questionnaires can help investigators spot patterns that can inform policy recommendations. For example, integrative medicine techniques such as acupuncture have helped relieve some symptoms of breast cancer, but patients don't always have access to these interventions. "We know from smaller studies or individual reports that some integrative medicine activities can help patients feel better and get healthier, but not every insurance company covers those potential interventions," said Dr. Stearns, who is also director of translational breast cancer research in the Weill Department of Medicine and associate director for clinical research at the Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center at Weill Cornell Medicine, and an oncologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. Data gathered by the project could demonstrate the benefit, providing evidence for policymakers and insurers. Collaborations and social justice Collaborations with non-profit organizations serving priority populations are essential to complement rather than duplicate efforts, the investigators said. They will mobilize community health workers and patient navigators who are optimally positioned to reach and share the materials with specific patient group. They will also collaborate with other academic institutions and the New York State Comprehensive Cancer Coalition. Recognizing the unique and diverse needs of this population of young women with breast cancer, the team will also organize innovative medical symposia and cultural competency training for health care providers, said Dr. Stearns, who was awarded this grant twice before during her tenure at Johns Hopkins Medicine. "Breast cancer, which is a life-changing diagnosis for anyone, has particular implications for young women," added Dr. Cigler, who leads the Young Women's Breast Cancer Program at the Breast Center at Weill Cornell Medicine. "This grant is an incredible opportunity to improve access and care coordination the growing population of young women with breast cancer in New York City." Why Is CCI Probing Amazon And Flipkart? Check Allegations, Latest Update Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 12:32 IST In January 2020, the CCI launched an investigation into Amazon, Flipkart, and their affiliated entities The CCI's probe order came after a complaint by the Delhi Vyapar Mahasang. (Representative image) The Supreme Court on Monday transferred to Karnataka High Court petitions of Amazon and Flipkart, challenging a Competition Commission of India order for a probe into the e-commerce giants for alleged malpractices. Pleadings to Be Completed with Reasonable Time related stories A bench of Justice Abhay S Oka and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan said if pleadings in some of the transferred petitions were not completed, the judge seized of the matter would grant reasonable time to complete the pleadings. All Petitions Transferred to Karnataka High Court It will be appropriate if all the petitions which are the subject matter of this transfer petition are transferred for hearing to the High Court of Karnataka," the bench said. Attorney General Updates on Multiple Pleas During the hearing, Attorney General R Venkataramani informed the apex court that, after filing of the present petition by fair trade regulator the Competition Commission of India (CCI), five pleas had been filed in different high courts. Supreme Court Orders Future Petitions to Follow Suit The top court directed that these petitions be transferred to the High Court of Karnataka. If similar petitions are hereafter instituted in any other high court, the same shall be also covered by this order," the bench said. CCI Seeks Consolidation of Cases Across High Courts The apex court had earlier issued a notice on the plea filed by the CCI, which sought the transfer of the petitions filed by the e-commerce giants from the high courts to the top court or Delhi High Court. In its plea before the top court, the CCI sought directions to transfer either to the Supreme Court or Delhi High Court the cases pending before the high courts of Allahabad, Madras, Telangana, Punjab and Haryana, Delhi, and Karnataka. Why Is CCI Probing Amazon and Flipkart? The fair trade regulator ordered the probe into Flipkart and Amazon following allegations of malpractices, including deep discounting and tie-ups with preferred sellers on their platforms. The CCIs probe order came after a complaint by the Delhi Vyapar Mahasang, whose members comprise many traders of smartphones and related accessories. Amazon and Flipkart filed separate petitions in various high courts, challenging the CCIs probe order. Allegations Against E-Commerce Giants In January 2020, the CCI launched an investigation into Amazon, Flipkart, and their affiliated entities over alleged anti-competitive practices. The allegations included favoring certain sellers closely linked to these e-commerce platforms. In April 2022, CCI carried out search-and-seizure operations targeting major sellers on these platforms. During the raids, the commission seized various electronic data, including emails and financial records. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all At the time, the investigation primarily focused on Amazon and Flipkart. However, since several sellers had financial ties to these platforms, CCI conducted raids on them as well. This move sparked legal challenges from the sellers, including Cloudtail, who argued that they were third parties unrelated to the platforms under investigation. They contended that CCI was only authorised to raid entities directly under probe, not third-party sellers. Entities subjected to the raids included Cloudtail, Appario Retail, and Rocket Kommerce, among others. Earlier this year, Appario Retail informed the Karnataka High Court that despite cooperating fully with the CCIs investigation, the commission had chosen to raid its premises. First Published: January 06, 2025, 12:32 IST Hospital Stocks Jump Up To 4% Following Confirmation of 3 HMPV Cases in India Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 15:31 IST While Indian indices Sensex and Nifty dropped 1.6% on Monday, certain hospital stocks gained investor interest after the government confirmed three cases Hospital Shares While Indian indices Sensex and Nifty dropped 1.6% on Monday, certain hospital stocks gained investor interest after the government confirmed three cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Indiatwo in Karnataka and one in Gujaratamid reports of a virus outbreak in China. Bengaluru-based Narayana Hrudayalaya surged 3.4%, reaching an intraday high of Rs 1,355 on the NSE, while Rainbow Childrens Medicare rose by 4%. Other hospital stocks, including Apollo Hospitals, Aster DM Healthcare, and Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), saw gains of up to 2%. related stories The India VIX, a measure of market volatility, spiked 13% as a broad sell-off affected mid- and small-cap stocks across various sectors. The Sensex dropped over 1,200 points to a low of 77,960, while the Nifty fell to around 23,600. India has confirmed two HMPV casesone in a three-month-old and another in an eight-month-old baby in Bengaluru. The Karnataka Health Department confirmed the case of the eight-month-old after medical tests returned positive results. The states health minister has called an emergency meeting to address the situation. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The Ministry of Health emphasized that HMPV is already circulating globally, including in India, and cases have been reported in several countries. However, the ministry reassured that there has been no unusual rise in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases in India, citing data from ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP). The ministry assured that the situation is being closely monitored through all available surveillance channels. The ICMR will continue tracking HMPV trends throughout the year, and the World Health Organization (WHO) is providing updates regarding the situation in China. Indias preparedness drills have confirmed that the country is well-equipped to handle any potential increase in respiratory illnesses and can swiftly implement public health measures if necessary. First Published: January 06, 2025, 15:31 IST Stocks To Watch: HDFC Bank, ITC, Nykaa, Adani Wilmar, Coal India, HUL, And Others Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 08:00 IST Stocks to watch: Shares of firms like HDFC Bank, ITC, Nykaa, Adani Wilmar, Coal India, HUL, and others will be in focus on Monday's trade Stocks To Watch Today. Stocks To Watch On January 6: Indian markets faced selling pressure on Friday, with the Nifty index closing near its low of the day. In todays session, stocks of ITC, HDFC Bank, Adani Wilmar, Kotak Mahindra Bank, HUL, and others will be in focus due to recent developments. ITC: ITCs shares are likely to attract attention as the demerger of ITC Hotels became effective on January 1, with January 6 set as the record date. related stories HDFC Bank: HDFC Banks loan-to-deposit ratio (LDR) at the end of December stood at 99.2%, down from 100.76% in Q2 FY25 and 111.53% in Q3 FY24. Additionally, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved HDFC Banks acquisition of up to a 9.5% stake in Kotak Mahindra Bank, AU Small Finance Bank, and Capital Small Finance Bank within one year from the approval date. Bajaj Finance: In its Q3 update, Bajaj Finance reported a 28% growth in assets under management (AUM), reaching Rs 3.98 trillion as of December 31, 2024, up from Rs 3.11 trillion a year earlier. The deposit book increased by 19%, totaling Rs 68,800 crore, compared to Rs 58,008 crore. FSN E-Commerce Ventures (Nykaa): The parent company of Nykaa expects consolidated net revenue growth to be in the mid-20s, with the gross merchandise value (GMV) growth for its beauty segment expected to be in the low 30s. Adani Wilmar: Adani Wilmar reported a 6% year-on-year growth in sales volumes and a 33% rise in revenue for the December quarter. The company is focusing on leveraging its core business and distribution network to drive growth in its high-margin FMCG portfolio following the Adani Groups exit. Bank of India: State-owned Bank of India is looking to sell Rs 245.68 crore worth of non-performing loans from Uttar Pradesh-based Simbhaoli Sugars Ltd. The bank has invited bids from entities interested in acquiring these bad loans via a Swiss challenge auction. Karur Vysya Bank: Private sector lender Karur Vysya Bank has opened two new branches, bringing its total branch network in Tamil Nadu to 475. Coal India: The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has dismissed allegations of dominance abuse against Coal India regarding its e-auction scheme introduced in December 2022, ruling that the state-owned company had not violated any norms. Kirloskar Group Companies: Four Kirloskar companiesKirloskar Ferrous Industries Ltd (KFIL), Kirloskar Industries Ltd (KIL), Kirloskar Pneumatic Company Ltd, and Kirloskar Oil Engines Ltdhave filed an appeal before the Securities Appellate Tribunal, challenging a letter from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) requiring them to disclose the deed of family settlement signed by the Kirloskar family in September 2009. Reliance Industries (RIL): Reliance has raised $3 billion from a consortium of 11 banks, marking its largest borrowing deal in nearly two years. Hindustan Unilever (HUL): HUL is in advanced talks to acquire the direct-to-consumer (D2C) skincare brand Minimalist at a valuation of Rs 3,000 crore. Dabur: Dabur expects to report low single-digit growth in consolidated revenue for the December quarter, according to an update released on Friday after market hours. City Gas Distribution Companies/ONGC/GAIL: The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has directed GAIL and ONGC to divert 1.27 million metric standard cubic meters per day (MMSCMD) of natural gas to city gas distribution (CGD) firms. Vodafone Idea (Vi): Vodafone Idea has launched new prepaid plans priced at Rs 3,599, Rs 3,699, and Rs 3,799, which will offer unlimited data usage from 12 AM to 12 PM daily, in addition to the daily data usage limit at high speed. Easy Trip Planners: Nishant Pitti, co-founder of online travel-tech platform EaseMyTrip, announced on Friday that he had sold a small portion" of the promoter shares for personal reasons," just days after the company revealed his resignation as CEO. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Tata Elxsi: Tata Elxsi is set to collaborate with Qualcomm Technologies to accelerate the adoption of Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs) for next-generation mobility, using Qualcomms Snapdragon automotive platform. Disclaimer: Disclaimer: The views and investment tips by experts in this News18.com report are their own and not those of the website or its management. Users are advised to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions. First Published: January 06, 2025, 08:00 IST Soon Mandatory Hallmarking For Silver In India? Here's What Government Said Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 15:08 IST Silver Hallmark News: Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said BIS should consider implementing mandatory hallmarking The government currently mandates hallmarking only for gold jewellery and artifacts. (Representative image) Silver Hallmark News: Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi on Monday urged the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to explore the possibility of making hallmarking mandatory for silver and silver artifacts, citing growing consumer demand. There is a demand from consumers for hallmarking of silver. You (BIS) can deliberate and take a call," Joshi said at the 78th BIS Foundation Day event. related stories Currently, the government mandates hallmarking only for gold jewellery and artifacts to protect consumer interests and ensure authenticity. The existing hallmarking system incorporates a unique six-digit alphanumeric code (HUID) to certify the purity of gold. Expanding hallmarking to include silver would represent a major step forward in strengthening Indias quality assurance framework for precious metals. What is Hallmarking? Hallmarking is the process of certifying the purity and quality of precious metals, such as gold and silver. It ensures that the metal meets the prescribed standards set by regulatory authorities. A hallmark on a piece of jewellery typically includes: BIS Standard Mark Indicates certification by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Indicates certification by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Purity/Fineness Grade Represents the purity of the metal (e.g., 22K or 916 for 22-karat gold). Represents the purity of the metal (e.g., 22K or 916 for 22-karat gold). Assaying and Hallmarking Centres Mark Identifies the center where the purity was tested. Identifies the center where the purity was tested. Jewellers Identification Mark/Code Identifies the manufacturer or jeweller. What is BIS? top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The Bureau of Indian Standards is the national standards body of India, functioning under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution. It was established to formulate, implement, and certify standards for products, processes, and systems to ensure safety, quality, and reliability. (With PTI inputs) First Published: January 06, 2025, 15:08 IST Since beginning of day, over half of all battles with aggressor occur in Kursk region AFU General Staff In Russia's Kursk region, since the beginning of the day, as of 16:00 Monday, some 62 combat clashes have occurred, 17 of them have been completed, 45 are ongoing, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said on the Telegram channel. In total, since the beginning of the day, 108 combat clashes have occurred on all fronts of the Russian-Ukrainian war: 16 of them occurred in Pokrovsk axis in Donetsk region, four are currently ongoing. Seven attacks by the occupiers took place in Kurakhove axis, six battles have been completed, another is still ongoing. In Lyman axis, the invading army attacked seven times, the fighting continues. In all other directions of the front, 16 combat clashes occurred together. The enemy is actively using frontline aviation. Oleksandropil (Pokrovsk axis), Andriivka (Kurakhove axis), Novopil (Vremivka axis), Katerynivka, Toretsk and Oleksandro-Kalynove (Toretsk axis), Stupochky (Kramatorsk axis), Bilohorivka (Siversk axis), Hraniv (Kharkiv axis) and Stepnohirsk (Orikhiv axis) were subjected to missile and bomb strikes. Earlier, there were reports of offensive activity of the Ukrainian Defense Forces in Russia's Kursk region. BJP Slams Removal Of Black Shawls From Female Students, Police Cite Security Concerns Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 13:01 IST The BJP has criticised the removal of black shawls from students at the conference, while the police have clarified that the action was necessary for security reasons. Tamil Nadu BJP chief Annamalai criticised the removal of black shawls from female students. (Image: PTI) After facing criticism on Sunday for not allowing female students wearing black shawls at the international conference on the Indus Valley Civilisation centenary held in Egmore, the Chennai police clarified that the action was taken as part of extreme safety precautions and assured that it would not be repeated in the future. Security personnel took black dupattas from attendees at a government event in Egmore as a precaution to ensure safety. During security checks, authorised individuals were inspected before being allowed into the event. In some cases, attendees wearing black dupattas were asked to give them up before entering," said the Police. related stories The police clarified that this extra caution was due to the security personnel being overly cautious. They also mentioned that the security division has been given guidelines to avoid such incidents in the future. Earlier, State BJP unit president K. Annamalai criticised the incident on X, saying, At an event attended by TN CM MK Stalin, female students wearing black shawls were instructed to remove them before entering the hall. Fear has spread, and they are left confused and hopeless. What kind of autocracy is this?" In an event participated by TN CM Thiru @mkstalin, female students wearing black shawls" were asked to remove them before entering the hall.Fear has crept in, and they are utterly clueless & have become hopeless. What kind of autocracy is this? pic.twitter.com/JySnt0pRGZ K.Annamalai (@annamalai_k) January 5, 2025 The three-day event, organised by the Tamil Nadu Department of Archaeology and inaugurated by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, featured the launch of a book titled Indus Valley Scripts and Tamil Nadu Codes: A Geometric Study." The seminar attracted active participation from college students and researchers. However, a controversy arose when several students wearing black clothing or accessories, including black dupattas, were denied entry into the venue. Event organisers reportedly confiscated items like black dupattas, umbrellas, and notebooks before allowing students to enter. These items were returned to the students after the event. The incident sparked widespread online criticism, with netizens questioning whether the removal of black attire was a precaution to prevent the display of black flagstraditionally used as a symbol of protestagainst Chief Minister Stalin. ALSO READ: All Of Us Should Be Ashamed: Madras HC Says Anna University Sexual Assault Case Being Politicised top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Netizens are saying that students might show black flags in support of the Anna University student who was allegedly sexually assaulted. The incident occurred on December 23, when a 19-year-old engineering student was allegedly sexually assaulted on the Anna University campus. According to her complaint, the assailant attacked her and her male friend, brutally assaulting the latter before dragging her into nearby shrubs. Gnanasekaran, a roadside biryani vendor, was arrested shortly after the complaint was filed. First Published: January 06, 2025, 12:56 IST IIM Bangalore Student Dies After Falling off Second Floor of College Hostel Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 16:54 IST According to police, he was spotted by the security personnel and was immediately rushed to the hospital where he was declared brought dead. It is likely that Nilay accidentally fell from the second floor balcony, while he was going back to his room after the birthday party.(Representative Image) A student of the Indian Institute of Management, Bengaluru (IIM-B) died after falling off the second floor of his hostel, police said on Monday. We are awaiting the post-mortem report, which will likely come in three days, to ascertain the cause of death," said the officer to PTI. related stories Nilay Kailashbhai Patel, who was from Surat, had celebrated his 29th birthday with his friends on Saturday. He had gone to his room after cutting cake in his friends room a little after midnight and was found lying in the courtyard lawn of the hostel at about 6.30 am on Sunday, they said. According to police, he was spotted by the security personnel and was immediately rushed to the hospital where he was declared brought dead. It is likely that Nilay accidentally fell from the second floor balcony, while he was going back to his room after the birthday party. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Meanwhile, IIM-B has put out a condolence message on its X page. It is with profound sadness that IIM Bangalore shares the news of the untimely passing of our PGP 2023-25 student," read the message. A case of unnatural death was registered by the police and investigation is on. First Published: January 06, 2025, 16:53 IST Jharkhand Board Exam 2025 Schedule Released For Class 8, 9, Check Timetable Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 16:24 IST Jharkhand Board Exam: Students who are set to take the exams can check and download the detailed exam date sheet from the JAC's official website at jac.jharkhand.gov.in. The exams will be conducted in two shifts -- from 9:45 AM to 1 PM and from 2 PM to 5:15 PM.(Representative/File Photo) The Jharkhand Academic Council (JAC) has released the timetable for the class 8 and class 9 board exams 2025. The class 8 exams are scheduled to commence on January 28, 2025, while the class 9 exams will start on January 29, 2025. Students who are set to take the exams can check and download the detailed exam date sheet from the JACs official website at jac.jharkhand.gov.in. The exams will be conducted in two shifts from 9:45 AM to 1 PM and from 2 PM to 5:15 PM. Each paper in class 8 will be 50 marks featuring multiple-choice questions (MCQs). Furthermore, an internal exam will be held at the school level carrying 100 marks. This year 5,18,002 students have applied for the 8th exam and 4,77,096 students have applied for the 9th exam. related stories JAC Jharkhand Board Class 8 Exam Timetable 2025 January 28, 2025 Hindi, English, an additional language, Mathematics, Social Science, and Science JAC Jharkhand Board Class 9 Exam Timetable 2025 January 29, 2025 Hindi A, Hindi B, and English, Mathematics and Science January 30, 2025 Social Science and additional languages Meanwhile, Jharkhand Board 11th exam will start on March 6. Jharkhand Board Inter Vocational exam will be held between March 5 and 25. 500 students have applied for this exam. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Around 4,33,886 students have applied for Jharkhand Board 10th and 3,49,825 students have applied for the 12th exam. Jharkhand Board Matric and Inter exams will be held from February 11 to March 3, 2025. Students can check the model set question paper of the JAC 10th, and 12th exams on jacexamportal.in. In Jharkhand Board Exam 2025, there will be 30 multiple-choice questions of 30 marks. There will be an internal assessment of 20 marks at the school level. The remaining 50 marks will include all short answer, long answer questions. Due to the increasing effect of the cold wave, the state government has directed all schools including government, non-government, aided, unaided (including minority), and private schools to remain closed from January 7 to 13, 2025. During this period, classes from KG to 8th will be suspended. Classes from 9 to 12 and all types of residential schools will continue to operate as usual. First Published: January 06, 2025, 16:07 IST 'My Father Is Really Ill, Cant Even Walk': Atishi Breaks Down Over Bidhuri's Remark | Video Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 17:21 IST BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri stoked a controversy after he said that Delhi CM Atishi "changed her father" as she changed her surname from Marlena to Singh. Delhi CM Atishi (Photo: PTI) Delhi Chief Minister Atishi on Monday broke down during a presser after BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri over his changed her father" remark, and said that he has now come down to abusing an old man who was a teacher for his lifetime. She slammed Bidhuri, stating that the countrys politics has stooped so low. related stories I want to tell Ramesh Bidhuri, my father was a teacher throughout his life, he has taught thousands of children coming from poor and lower-middle-class families, now he is 80 years oldnow he is really ill that he cant even walk without help," Atishi said. #WATCH | Delhi: On BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuris reported objectionable statement regarding her, Delhi CM Atishi says, " I want to tell Ramesh Bidhuri, my father was a teacher throughout his life, he has taught thousands of children coming from poor and lower-middle-class families, pic.twitter.com/ojQr3w0gVW ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025 Will you (Ramesh Bidhuri) do such a dirty thing for the sake of election? He has come down to the situation where he is abusing an old man. I never thought that this countrys politics could stoop so low." she added. What Had Ramesh Bidhuri Said? Ramesh Bidhuri, the BJP candidate from the Kalkaji constituency where Atishi has been given a ticket once again by AAP, said that Atishi changed her surname from Marlena to Singh and therefore changed her father". This Marlena (Atishi) became Singh. She changed her name. Arvind Kejriwal swore on his children not to align with the corrupt Congress. Marlena changed her father. This reflects the character of the Aam Aadmi Party," Bidhuri had said. Ramesh Bidhuris Sexist Remark On Priyanka Gandhi In another controversial remark, Bidhuri said that if the BJP comes to power in Delhi, it will build roads like Priyanka Gandhis cheeks" in Kalkaji. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all We will build all roads in Kalkaji like the cheeks of Priyanka Gandhi. Lalu had said that he would build roads in Bihar like the cheeks of Hema Malini, he had lied. He could not. But I assure you that we will make all roads in Kalkaji like the cheeks of Priyanka Gandhi," he had said. He took back his words after facing severe criticism from the AAP and Congress, which threatened to file an FIR against him. First Published: January 06, 2025, 15:09 IST Can BJP Win Delhi? Modis Party Has This 5-Point Strategy To End 27-Year-Long Drought Written By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 11:03 IST Delhi elections: Leading the charge against AAP is BJPs top face, PM Narendra Modi. A wildcard advantage for BJP could be the Congress and BSP contesting on all 70 seats and eating into AAP's votes Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks during a public meeting at Rohini in New Delhi on Sunday. (PTI) The party is employing a multi-pronged strategy to live up to this challenge as it senses anti-incumbency" against the Aam Aadmi Partys (AAP) decade-long rule, and feels that the narrative of AAPs corruption and misgovernance has percolated to the masses. related stories The BJPs campaign is also very localised this time, with the Prime Minister speaking about sewers and water-logged roads and the DTC fleet, in a marked shift from the national issues campaign run by the BJP in Delhi in the past. The effort is to touch the pulse of the common Delhiite on the issues he is facing day in and day out. The BJPs strategy seems to be on five political pillars, glimpses of which have been evident in the two public addresses of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi last week. Modi is again the BJPs face in Delhi and the party is not projecting any chief ministerial face. The PM and home minister Amit Shah are leading the attack on AAP on the sheeshmahal campaign around the CMs affluent residence, feeling this is AAPs Achilles heel. The BJP is highlighting the AAPs misgovernance from the state of the Yamuna to air pollution, to try to keep the campaign local. It says Delhi needs a double-engine government run by the BJP. The BJP is planning a strong counter to AAPs two major weapons free electricity, and the Rs-2,100 promise to women. The BJP has also made a major overture to slum-dwellers who are a major vote bank, with Modi saying everyone will get a pucca home. The BJP is hoping that the Congress and the BSP will dent AAPs votes in multiple seats, and the BJP may gain from it. MODI IS THE FACE Leading the charge against the AAP again is the BJPs top face, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This was also the case in 2020 when the BJP lost. The BJP had projected Kiran Bedi as their chief ministerial face in 2015, but that ended in a disaster as the AAP won as many as 67 out of the 70 seats in Delhi. Arvind Kejriwal and his party are taking potshots at the BJP asking who their dulha" (bridegroom) is in these elections. But the BJP feels that there are bigger issues in this election than a CM face. It is buoyed by the wins in Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh in 2023 without projecting any CM face. The two posters released by the BJP so far only have Modi as the face on them. The BJP feels the AAP has complicated its own strategy by saying that Kejriwal will replace Atishi as the CM if the AAP wins, despite the Supreme Court putting stiff conditions on Kejriwal while granting him bail. PM Modi launches Sheeshmahal jibe on AAP convenor Arvind KejriwalHe further accuses the Delhi Government of blocking Ayushman Bharat Scheme@AmanKayamHai_ and @_pallavighosh share more details@akankshaswarups | #DelhiAssemblyElection2025 #AAPDelhi #BJP pic.twitter.com/wUIG77UYFH News18 (@CNNnews18) January 3, 2025 SHEESHMAHAL IS AAPS ACHILLES HEEL Unlike 2020, when the BJP did not have as much ammunition on the front of corruption of the AAP, this election is different as the sheeshmahal controversy around the CMs affluent residence could prove to be its Achilles heel, the BJP feels. This explains PM Modi and Shah leading the attack on the issue. I never built a house for myselfI could also have built a sheeshmahal but my dream has been that the poor get a concrete house," PM Modi said at a rally on Friday. A latest CAG report, which has not been tabled in the Delhi Assembly yet, has also posed serious questions on the lavish expenditure on refurbishing and renovating the CMs residence in Delhi. The PM has led the attack on this CAG report as well, saying Kejriwal was focused on building the sheeshmahal" at a time when the national capital was struggling with Covid. FAILED GOVERNANCE MODEL The BJP is also doubling down on the state of the Yamuna river, and the persistent air pollution issue in the national capital, to corner the AAPs governance model in Delhi. The PM has termed AAP as AAP-Da" or a calamity for Delhi. While the AAP is showcasing its health and education model in Delhi, the BJP is trying to tell the people that the AAP has failed on core governance issues such as the sewage system and water scarcity, and is always on a confrontational mode with the centre, hence impeding Delhis development. In fact, the BJP is imploring voters to return to the development model of governance rather than the AAPs freebie culture much like it was in the Sheila Dikshit-era when the Congress was in power both in the centre and the state. The BJP is urging Delhis voters to again opt for a double engine government in Delhi of the BJP so that developmental activity in Delhi can go ahead unhindered. It is important for Delhi to walk hand-in-hand with Indias development journeyIt is important for the BJP to be in power both in the centre and in Delhi," the PM said in Rohini on Sunday, adding that all big works in Delhi are done by the centre and that it has given Rs 75,000 crore to Delhi. The Prime Ministers twin rallies in Delhi last week have focused on a development gift for Delhi and this is the BJPs big focus now. The PM is also imploring voters to consider how can a party whose top leaders had to go to jail in various corruption scams focus on development? The excise scam, besides sheeshmahal, is another big campaign point for the BJP. PM Modi on Sunday pointed to various scams in Delhi to say various senior AAP leaders faced serious criminal charges and have been to jail. #WATCH | Delhi | Union Home Minister Amit Shah says, Some children came to meet me at my home. I asked them, what Arvind Kejriwal had done for Delhi? One of the children said that he built a big Sheesh Mahal for himself. When he (Arvind Kejriwal) came into politics, he used to pic.twitter.com/qgq1IWGcOh ANI (@ANI) January 4, 2025 COUNTERING AAPS ACES The AAP seems to have a strong advantage on two counts in Delhi one, its continued focus on free electricity that has delivered big wins in 2015 and 2020. The other is its promise of Rs 2,100 for women this time, if it returns to power, which has proved to be a winning strategy for multiple parties in other states like the BJP, the Congress, and the JMM. The BJP could strongly counter both these points with certain promises in its manifesto, News18 learns. So far, the BJP has been trying to poke holes in the AAPs womens scheme promise saying that AAP has failed to deliver the same in Punjab for nearly three years now. However, the BJP knows it will take more to convince the voters otherwise. Especially, as the BJP is implementing a similar womens scheme in states such as Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha and Chhattisgarh. The PM seems to have hinted towards the same when in Rohini he said the BJP will take steps to make the life of women easier. UNLIKELY ALLIES A wildcard advantage for the BJP could prove to be the Congress and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) contesting on all 70 seats in Delhi and the prospect of both these parties eating into the AAP vote-bank and ending up helping the BJP. The Congress is aggressive against the AAP which has dismissed the Congress as not a challenge". top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In major triangular fights, like the key seats of Arvind Kejriwal and Atishi, the Congress has put up strong faces to ensure there is no walkover. All this is music to the BJPs ears. Will this be enough for the BJP to perform a miracle in Delhi? BJP leaders say that after the Haryana win last year, nothing is impossible. First Published: January 06, 2025, 07:00 IST Delhi Polls: District Election Officer Alleges Political Pressure, Seeks Security Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 23:22 IST In a series of letters, the district election officer (DEO) alleged undue pressure from the political leaders and sought security measures to ensure the smooth conduct of electoral duties The DEO further raised concerns about summons from Delhi Chief Minister Atishi.(Photo: PTI) In the wake of the AAPs claims of mass deletion of voters from the electoral roll, the district election officer of New Delhi has flagged concerns about political interference and operational disruptions ahead of the upcoming assembly polls. In a series of letters, the district election officer (DEO) alleged undue pressure from the political leaders and sought security measures to ensure the smooth conduct of electoral duties. related stories In a letter dated January 4 addressed to the chief electoral officer (CEO) of Delhi, he detailed multiple visits by senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders, including Raghav Chadha and Sanjay Singh, to the DEOs office on December 21, 28 and 29, 2024 and January 3, 2025. There have been attempts on their part to exert pressure on me by asking for personal details of objectors and other such information that falls outside the purview of routine operations," the letter to the CEO of Delhi said. The DEO further raised concerns about summons from Delhi Chief Minister Atishi. The CM of GNCTD has been calling me for meetings without a specified agenda and in the past also, discussions regarding electoral rolls were held without prior notice," the DEO wrote. Seeking clarity, the officer asked whether such meetings lacking a formal agenda were mandatory to attend. Separately, District Magistrate (DM) Sunny K Singh in another letter dated January 4 to the Office of the CM echoed similar concerns. Referring to an urgent meeting scheduled on January 4, 2025, he noted, At 1:01 pm, a WhatsApp message from your office directed me to attend a meeting called by the CM at 2:00 pm. The agenda of the meeting has not been conveyed, making it difficult for me to come prepared." The DM emphasised that he was engaged in field verification tasks and requested that agendas for future meetings be shared in advance to allow for adequate preparation. Adding to the concerns, Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Nishant Bodh sought police intervention to maintain order at the DEOs office. In a letter to the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Bodh cited growing tensions due to frequent visits by political representatives. Recently, several incidents of ruckus and intimidation have taken place, creating an atmosphere of tension and disrupting the smooth functioning of the DEOs duties," the letter stated. Warning of potential security risks to the DEO and staff, the ADM said, There is a possibility of breach of peace and pressures being imposed on the office functionaries, including the DEO, to disturb the process of conduct of elections." The letter requested the deployment of adequate security personnel and a threat assessment for the DEO to ensure their safety. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Earlier in the day, the chief minister alleged a voters scam in the New Delhi constituency from where AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal is contesting the upcoming polls. The escalating concerns come at a crucial time when the AAP has been alleging mass deletion of voters from the electoral roll and this has become a contentious issue as the Delhi Assembly elections slated for February draw near. First Published: January 06, 2025, 23:22 IST Can Alcohol Cause Cancer? Heres What The New Study Says On Risks & Moderate Drinking | Explained Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 20:28 IST US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy warned cancer risk increases with the number of drinks. Evidence shows alcohol consumption increases risk of malignancy for breast, colon and rectum, esophagus, liver, mouth, throat, and larynx cancers A January 2025 report from the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine concluded that people who drank moderately were less likely to die prematurely from any cause than those who never drank alcohol.(Representative Image) New studies have evidence to show a clear link between cancer and alcohol consumption. A US surgeon general has also suggested that alcoholic drinks should come with cancer warnings labels. US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy warned cancer risk increases with the number of drinks, but even one drink a day can be dangerous. related stories Alcohol is a well-established, preventable cause of cancer responsible for about 100,000 cases of cancer and 20,000 cancer deaths annually in the United States," Murthy said in a statement announcing his advisory. He also highlighted that alcohol-related cancer deaths were higher than the 13,500 deaths from drunken driving crashes annually in the US. As per the current US federal guidelines, if people want to drink alcohol, women should drink no more than one drink per day and men no more than two. How Alcohol Causes Cancer? The National Cancer Institute says a human body breaks alcohol down into chemicals that can damage DNA, causing cells to grow out of control and become cancerous. Additionally, alcohol blocks the body from breaking down certain nutrients that can increase the cancer risk. Thus, Acetaldehyde is converted into acetate in a process that involves oxidation, producing dangerous unstable oxygen-containing molecules that damage cells and contribute to cancer-causing inflammation. Alcohol can also increase blood levels of the sex hormone estrogen, which has been linked to higher risk of breast and ovarian cancers. Additionally, the combination of smoking and drinking is multiplicative", which is more harmful than adding the potential damage of either one alone, according to the cancer institute. The World Health Organizations International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies alcohol as a Group 1" carcinogen. This means there is enough evidence to show that alcohol consumption can cause cancer in humans. Other carcinogens in that group include tobacco, asbestos and radiation. Can Sobriety Reverse The Damage? There is less research to prove how long it takes to reduce cancer risk after a person stops drinking alcohol. But some research have shown that a single month of sobriety can lead to weight loss and improved blood pressure and cholesterol level. Dr. Rotonya Carr, head of gastroenterology at the University of Washington, told NBC News that it can take at least 20 years after someone stops drinking for their risk of liver cancer to equal to that of a person who has abstained from alcohol. Alcohol does do damage at the cellular level," she said. Some medical experts also feel many factors, including family history, influence the degree of damage that alcohol can do to a person. If theres a history of certain cancers, then perhaps they wont be able to undo that risk," said Dr. Frances Lee, a hepatologist at Mount Sinai in New York, as quoted by NBC News. What About Drinking In Moderation? Some studies over the years have pointed to potential health benefits of drinking in moderation. A January 2025 report from the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine concluded that people who drank moderately were less likely to die prematurely from any cause than those who never drank alcohol. It also found evidence to suggest that consuming moderate amounts of alcohol is associated with lower risks for nonfatal heart attacks, nonfatal strokes, and deaths from heart disease. Though moderate alcohol drinking was associated with higher risk of breast cancer, the report could not draw a conclusion between moderate alcohol consumption and cancers of the mouth, throat, larynx and esophagus, according to USA Today. But the National Cancer Institute has dismissed this report, warning that those who drink just one drink a day and those who binge drink have modestly increased risk" for some cancers. What Are The Cancers Associated With Drinking? The American Association of Cancer Researchs latest Cancer Progress Report highlighted that excessive levels of alcohol increase risk of six cancers, from head and neck to stomach. Increased risk of malignancy is strongest for breast, colon and rectum, esophagus, liver, mouth, throat, and larynx cancers. The Surgeon Generals report estimates that an alcohol-related cancer will develop in about 10 of every 100 men who consume less than one drink per week, 11 of every 100 who average one drink daily, and in 13 of every 100 who consume two drinks daily. Higher alcohol consumption increases breast cancer risk in women from roughly 11 cases in every 100 of those who consume less than one drink per week, to 13 cases in every 100 who consume one drink per day and 15 in every 100 who consume two drinks per day, according to the report. The hormone-related risk for breast cancer is mentioned in the report. In addition, in the mouth and esophagus, and throughout the gastrointestinal tract, alcohol irritates and damages the protective mucosal lining that normally protects cells from carcinogens, including tobacco. The liver processes alcohol, leading to high acetaldehyde concentrations. Chronic alcohol-induced inflammation can also lead to cirrhosis, a major risk factor for liver cancer. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Alcohol-induced inflammation can also increase the risk of pancreas cancer. (with inputs from Reuters) First Published: January 06, 2025, 17:14 IST Is HMPV Similar To Covid-19, How Does It Spread? All You Need To Know About The Disease | Explained Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Shilpy Bisht Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 14:20 IST Both HMPV and Covid-19 share many similarities, as both cause respiratory issues such as coughing, fever, congestion, sore throat and shortness of breath, and both spread through respiratory droplets HMPV cannot be treated with antiviral drugs, and currently has no vaccine. (Image for representation: AFP) India has two confirmed cases of HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus that originated in China), with three-month-old and eight-month-old babies detected with the virus in a hospital in Bengaluru. The infected babies and their families have no recent travel history, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), which confirmed the cases. related stories The case of the eight-month-old child was confirmed by the Karnataka Health Department, which said medical tests of the child turned out to be positive. The state health minister has called for an emergency meeting with the officials over the virus. Let us look at the symptoms, treatment for the viral disease, and its origin in China. What Is HMPV? Identified in 2001, HMPV is part of the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), as noted by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The virus commonly causes upper and lower respiratory infections, with symptoms resembling those of a cold or flu. Though HMPV can infect anyone, it poses a serious threat to young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems, according to the CDC. A research indicates that the virus has circulated for at least six decades and is now recognised as a prevalent respiratory pathogen globally. How Does It Spread? HMPV spreads primarily through respiratory droplets expelled during coughing and sneezing. Transmission can also occur through close contact with infected individuals or exposure to contaminated environments. The Chinese CDC website states that the infection period for HMPV is three to five days. Unfortunately, the immune response triggered by HMPV is insufficient to prevent reinfection. While HMPV can be detected year-round, it is most prevalent during the winter and spring months. What Are The Symptoms? Human metapneumovirus often causes symptoms that resemble a cold, but some people can become seriously ill. Young children are more susceptible to serious disease because the first time you have HMPV, you are more likely to become seriously ill. After your initial infection, you develop some immunity, which increases your risk of experiencing mild, cold-like symptoms if you contract HMPV again. Severe symptoms may also be experienced by adults over 65, those with respiratory issues, and those with compromised immune systems. Common symptoms include cough, fever, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, wheezing, shortness of breath (dyspnea) and rash. HMPV can occasionally result in difficulties such as bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma and ear infection. Whats The Diagnosis And Treatment? HMPV is typically diagnosed by medical professionals based on your medical history and symptoms. They take a sample from your throat or nose using a swab. The sample is examined in a lab for viruses and other diseases. Only those with severe symptoms can get tested for HMPV. Doctor may occasionally additionally perform a bronchoscopy or chest X-ray to check lungs airways. The disease cannot be treated with antiviral drugs. Until they feel better, the majority of people can manage their symptoms at home. At present, no vaccine is recommended. You may need to be admitted to the hospital if you or your child are very sick. They could give patients: Oxygen Therapy: A healthcare professional may use a mask on your face or a tube in your nose to give you more oxygen if youre experiencing trouble breathing. Intravenous Fluids: You can stay hydrated by receiving fluids intravenously (IV). Corticosteroids: Steroids may alleviate some of your symptoms by reducing inflammation. How To Protect Yourself The CDC advises taking these measures to lower the risk of HMPV and other respiratory infections: Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands. Wear masks in crowded areas during outbreaks. Stay home when unwell to prevent spreading the virus. Clean frequently touched surfaces regularly. How Does HMPV Compare To Covid? HMPV and Covid-19 share many similarities, as both cause respiratory issues such as coughing, fever, congestion, sore throat and shortness of breath, and both spread through respiratory droplets, according to WebMD. As per Science Direct, Covid-19 appears to be temperature-sensitive and, therefore, seasonal. Similarly, HMPV spreads in different seasons, the CDC said. Although HMPV can be detected throughout the year, cases typically peak in the US from late winter to early spring. Studies suggest HMPV cases tripled in some regions after Covid-19 restrictions were lifted. The drop in exposure to viruses during lockdowns likely weakened immunity, causing a surge in respiratory infections once precautions were relaxed. Whats Happening In China? China is currently facing an outbreak of HMPV and videos on social media purportedly show overcrowded hospitals and overburdened healthcare systems. Health experts have raised concerns over HMPV in other Asian countries as well. The HMPV comes five years after the world was first alerted about the novel coronavirus in Wuhan, China, which later turned into a global pandemic, claiming seven million lives. Health authorities are implementing new measures to monitor and manage the spread of pneumonia cases of unknown origin. Nonetheless, Beijing has downplayed the developments as an annual winter occurrence. Chinas foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said in a press statement on Friday that Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season". The spokesperson said, The diseases appear to be less severe and spread on a smaller scale compared with the previous year. I can assure you that the Chinese government cares about the health of Chinese citizens and foreigners in China. It is safe to travel in China." The Indian health ministry said it is closely monitoring the situation in China through all available channels and also requested the World health Organization to share timely updates regarding the situation. At present, the WHO has not flagged HMPV as a global health emergency, but the rise in cases has prompted authorities to bolster monitoring systems. What About Chinas Neighbouring Countries? Hong Kong has reported a few cases of HMPV. Cambodia and Taiwan are keeping a close tab on the situation. Cambodias Communicable Disease Control Department has issued warnings about HMPV, noting its similarity to Covid-19 and influenza. Taiwans Centers for Disease Control has said the viruss higher risks for children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all As per Strait Times, Malaysia has seen a significant rise in cases of HMPV in 2024 with 327 cases reported an increase of 45% from 225 cases in 2023. The Malaysian Health Ministry has urged the public to adopt preventive measures to curb the spread of HMPV. Japan is also closely monitoring the situation, an influenza outbreak already led to thousands of cases in Japan, with 94,259 flu patients reported in the week leading up to December 15, 2024, according to the Japan Broadcasting Corporation. First Published: January 06, 2025, 12:48 IST 2 Children Test Positive For HMPV In Chennai Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 20:24 IST These two are the first cases to be reported from Chennai from two hospitals Meanwhile, officials of the state health department held a meeting to discuss the measures to be taken to screen for HMPV | Representative Image Two children have tested positive for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and are currently undergoing treatment, a health official said on Monday. These two are the first cases to be reported from the city from two hospitals. Further details are awaited. related stories Meanwhile, officials of the state health department held a meeting to discuss the measures to be taken to screen for HMPV and the precautions to be put in place to contain its spread. First Published: January 06, 2025, 20:24 IST Baba Siddique Murder: Police File 4,590 Page Charge Sheet, Say Anmol Bishnoi Ordered Hit To Strike Fear Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 16:04 IST Baba Siddique (66) was shot dead outside his son Zeeshan Siddiques office in Mumbais Neelamnagar area on October 12 by three assailants. NCP leader Baba Siddique was shot dead outside his son's office in Mumbai. (ANI) The Mumbai Police on Monday filed a charge sheet in connection with the murder of former Maharashtra minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) (Ajit Pawar faction) leader Baba Siddique. The 4,590-page charge sheet was filed by the Mumbai Polices crime branch in a special court against 26 arrested accused and three wanted persons, including gangster Anmol Bishnoi, the brother of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. related stories The charge sheet mentioned that Bishnoi carried out the assassination to create an atmosphere of fear through his organised crime syndicate. Other than Bishnoi, the charge sheet also identified Mohammed Yasin Akhtar (also known by aliases Mohammed Jamil, Kehi, and Jessi), and Pune resident Shubham Rameshwar Lonkar as wanted suspects in the murder case. As per the charge sheet, Anmol Bishnoi, the leader of an organised crime syndicate, hatched the conspiracy and orchestrated the murder to instil fear and dominance over the crime syndicate and to establish supremacy in Mumbai." The charge sheet also noted Siddiques closeness to actor Salman Khan and revenge for the suicide of Anuj Thapan as other reasons for the crime. The Mumbai Police took statements from 210 witnesses while forming the charge sheet. Baba Siddique Murder Case Baba Siddique (66) was shot dead outside his son Zeeshan Siddiques office in Mumbais Neelamnagar area on October 12 by three assailants. The assailants, armed with pistols, had been following Siddique. As he walked towards his car, parked about 25 to 30 metres away, one of the men, identified as Shivkumar Gautam, allegedly fired six shots. Three bullets struck Siddique in the upper body, causing fatal injuries. Siddique was rushed to Lilavati Hospital, where he died within an hour. Gurmail Singh, a native of Haryana and Dharamraj Kashyap from Uttar Pradesh along with Shiva Kumar were the other two who accompanied Shivam in murdering Siddique. The Mumbai Crime Branch and the Uttar Pradesh Police Special Task Force (STF) arrested main shooter Shiv Kumar Gautam alias Shiva along with his aides near Nepal border from Nanpara, Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh during a joint operation. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Police have so far arrested 26 people and invoked stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime (MCOC) Act against them. All accused are in judicial custody. (With inputs from bureau, agencies) First Published: January 06, 2025, 16:01 IST A bus in Kherson was hit by an enemy UAV, one person is known to have died, and five more people were hospitalized, Head of Kherson Regional Military Administration Oleksandr Prokudin said. "As a result of explosives being dropped from a Russian drone on a bus a 50-year-old man was killed. He received an explosive injury incompatible with life. Sincere condolences to the relatives of the deceased," the administration's head said on his Telegram channel. According to the administration's head, there are six known victims. Women aged 47, 55, 58, 51 and 30 were taken to the hospital, and a 21-year-old man was also injured. "We also know of five victims. Women aged 47, 55, 58, 51 and 30 were taken to the hospital. A 21-year-old man received an explosive injury and shrapnel wounds to his legs. He is currently in the hospital under medical supervision," Prokudin said. According to him, doctors are providing all necessary assistance to the victims. Rescued Fishermen Told Me Bangladesh Officials Tortured Them: Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 18:10 IST While 95 Indian fishermen returned on Sunday, 90 fishermen were sent back to Bangladesh. West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee met them in Ganga Sagar on Monday Mamata Banerjee met the fishermen at Ganga Sagar on Monday. (News18) West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday said that the Indian fishermen, who were released from a Bangladesh jail on Sunday, told her that they were tortured in the neighbouring country. While 95 Indian fishermen returned on Sunday, 90 fishermen were sent back to Bangladesh. Banerjee met them at Ganga Sagar on Monday and gave them Rs 10,000 each. These 95 fishermen are my brothers. I saw some of them were unable to walk properly. I asked them what happened to them. They told me that they were tortured in Bangladesh jail. Bangladeshi trawlers came to our side, too, but we kept their fishermen properly. We cared for them and took the initiative to send them back to their country. I want friendship between the two countries like before," said Banerjee. related stories Banerjee stressed that the state government took the initiative to continuously follow up on the case, which has helped in the return of the fishermen. Along with 95 fishermen, one person jumped from the ship in fear. Banerjee ordered that the fishermen be included in the state welfare schemes for the community. Pacchu Biswas, who is over 75, told News18: When their Navy caught us, they hit us with sticks and did not even listen to us. They beat us up badly. I cant even mention what happened to us. We are still in pain." Ananda Sarkar, another fisherman, told News18, We go to sea for our livelihood. They caught us and tortured us, even though we kept saying we had entered by mistake. They then sent us to jail. I thought my life would end there. Thank you to those who got us back. We have narrated our ordeal to Didi." Ranjan Das said, More than the jail, the Navy was merciless." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Their Coast Guard and Navy tied our hands from behind. They beat up the man who was running the ship," said a rescued fisherman. Others, too, had similar stories. When talks were going on, we were told we would be released. We know we will still have to enter the waters for our livelihood," concluded one of them. First Published: January 06, 2025, 17:57 IST Bengaluru Techie, His Wife, Two Children Found Dead In Rented House Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 14:17 IST Police said the incident came to light when the domestic help of the couple reported to work in the morning and saw the bodies Anup Kumar with his wife | Image/X Four members of a family were found dead under mysterious circumstances in a rented house in RMV 2nd Stage, Bengaluru, within the limits of Sadashivanagar Police Station, said officials aware of the matter. An initial probe into the case revealed that the victims, identified as Anup Kumar, aged 38, his wife Rakhi, aged 35, their 5-year-old daughter, and 2-year-old son, were natives of Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. related stories Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) Shekhar H Tekkannavar said the incident came to light when the domestic help of the couple reported to work in the morning and saw the bodies in the rented house. When the maid knocked on the door and received no response, she looked through the window and discovered the dead bodies. She immediately alerted the neighbours, who then informed the police. The police said that Anup Kumar was working as a software consultant in a private firm in Bengaluru and was survived by his wife and two children. The police suspect that the couple took the extreme step due to financial issues. However, no official declaration has been made concerning the case. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all They added that the bodies were discovered in the house under unexplained circumstances. An investigation has been launched and further details are expected to be released as the case develops. First Published: January 06, 2025, 14:17 IST 'Self-Limiting' HMPV Virus Not New To India, No Need To Panic, Says Karnataka Health Minister Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 17:29 IST Allaying fears, Dinesh Gundu Rao told News18 that HMPV was an existing virus, with a certain percentage of the population routinely contracting it Karnataka health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao holds a meeting on the HMPV cases. (News18) The HMPV strain found in two cases in Bengaluru in an eight-month-old male and another three-month-old female will not be sent to Punes National Institute of Virology for detailed testing since its a known virus, Karnatakas health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has told News18. Bengaluru has reported two cases of suspected HMPV infection in infants, both of whom have no travel history. The Union health ministry said the two cases were detected in Karnataka following routine surveillance. related stories Allaying fears, Rao said HMPV was an existing virus, with a certain percentage of the population routinely contracting it. The infants who are affected are locals and have no travel history, either to China or Malaysia. The baby is stable. Chinas outbreak is a new variant of HMPV. We dont have the full details and the government of India is yet to give us more details. Maybe they are trying to get more information. China could be a new strain, but the HMPV strain we see in India has been there before and causes common symptoms like cold, influenza, and cough. It is a self-limiting virus and goes away after some time," said Rao. The male baby was admitted on January 2 with signs of viral infection, fever, and breathlessness, said officials. The health report of the child, accessed by News18, says that the R6 Biofire Respiratory Panel testing for viruses and few bacteria returned positive for Human Metapneumovirus and Human Rhinovirus/Enterovirus. The laboratory testing of the child was initiated on January 2 at 12.28pm and the confirmation of the suspected virus was received on January 3 at 1.22pm. The report said Multiplex PCR testing detected microbial RNA/DNA consistent with the HMPV virus in the baby. Human Metapneumovirus and Human Rhinovirus/Enterovirus detected. Multiplex PCR testing detects microbial RNA/DNA in specimens containing the same organisms when it is present at significant levels in the above background," the report stated. Soon after, the hospital authorities flagged the case to state health officials, who have now swung into action and sent the sample for further testing to NIV, Pune. I dont think one should be calling this the first case of HMPV in India. That is the wrong way of reporting it. This virus has been there, the doctors have tested for this particular one and detected it, thats all," Rao said, referring to the case of the eight-month-old male baby. According to the Karnataka health minister, there is no need to panic but people should remain alert. We are discussing with ICMR and the government of India to chalk out our first steps," he said. The health department is also planning a detailed protocol for all virus testing in the state as multiple respiratory viruses are circulating. There is an urgent need to keep a watch on any such developments and ensure that necessary health protocols, enhanced testing, and control measures are initiated so that there is no chance of an outbreak. Rao, after a series of meetings with top officials of the health department to evaluate the situation, has assured that there is no cause for panic over the detection of HMPV cases in the state. He advised people to maintain regular sanitisation practices, such as washing hands frequently, monitoring cold and fever symptoms, and maintaining personal hygiene to avoid infections. This is not a new virus, and there is no need to panic, just remain alert," he said. Rao reiterated that the state government is in regular touch with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Union health ministry to chalk out any necessary steps, if need be. Dont panic, be aware The ministry of medical education and the department of health and family welfare, under which government hospitals operate, have also issued an advisory to raise awareness about HMPV. The advisory issued by medical education minister Sharan Prakash Patil urged people to remain calm and informed, stating: Do not panic. Be aware." Human Metapneumovirus is a respiratory virus that primarily affects children, causing infections similar to the common cold. Most people contract the virus before the age of five. The virus is not as transmissible as Covid-19 and most cases are mild and do not require hospitalisation," it added. Health authorities have assured that the Karnataka government, along with the Indian government, is monitoring the situation closely and that there has been no significant rise in HMPV cases across the country based on the latest data. There is no cause for alarm, but the government is advising the public to take basic precautions to prevent infections. Treatment for HMPV focuses on alleviating symptoms as there is currently no specific antiviral or vaccine for the virus. Patients are advised to rest, stay hydrated, and take over-the-counter medications for fever, pain, and congestion to manage symptoms. Symptoms to look out for According to Karnataka government health officials, the first strain of HMPV was discovered in 2001 in the Netherlands. It belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, is a single-stranded RNA virus, and spreads through respiratory droplets. The virus causes flu-like symptoms, including cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, it can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly in young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets, close personal contact, and by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes. The advisory has directed hospitals across Karnataka to report all cases of Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI), ensure the availability of essential medications, and maintain proper documentation of suspected cases. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Key preventive measures The government advisory has also listed key preventive measures, such as covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, washing hands regularly with soap and water, avoiding public places if experiencing symptoms, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals. It has also recommended avoiding the reuse of tissue papers or handkerchiefs, not sharing towels or linens, minimising touching the eyes, nose, and mouth, and wearing masks in crowded areas to reduce the risk of transmission. First Published: January 06, 2025, 13:06 IST At Least 9 Dead After Naxalites Blow Up Police Vehicle In Chhattisgarh's Bijapur Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Aveek Banerjee Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 21:34 IST Naxalites blew up with a vehicle carrying security personnel with an improvised explosive device in Bijapur. A police vehicle was blown up with an IED blast, killing several personnel. (News18) A group of Naxalites on Monday blew up a vehicle carrying police personnel with an improvised explosive device in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur district. At least nine people including eight jawans and the driver have been confirmed dead in the incident so far, according to police. The blast occurred on the Bedre-Kutru Road in Bijapur district. Two Scorpio vehicles carrying at least 20 soldiers who were returning from an anti-Naxal operation conducted yesterday, when the IED exploded. related stories Police confirmed that a total of nine people, including eight soldiers and the driver, have been confirmed dead in the IED blast. Shocking visuals from the spot showed dismembered bodies of the Army jawans following the blast. The bodies of the nine, including 8 Dantewada DRG jawans, brought to District Hospital in Dantewada earlier this evening. President Droupadi Murmu expressed grief over the incident and said, The Naxalite attack on security forces in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh is condemnable. I express my deepest condolences to the bereaved families of the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice for the security of the country. Our country is determined to completely eradicate Naxalism." , - President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) January 6, 2025 Union Home Minister Amit Shah also condemned the attack and said that the sacrifice of the soldiers wont go in vain. I am deeply saddened by the news of the loss of DRG soldiers in an IED blast in Bijapur (Chhattisgarh). I express my deepest condolences to the families of the brave soldiers. It is impossible to express this grief in words, but I assure you that the sacrifice of our soldiers will not go in vain. We will end Naxalism from the land of India by March 2026," he said. () IED DRG : , Amit Shah (@AmitShah) January 6, 2025 Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai condemned the attack and asserted that the government will end Naxalism by 2026. " Our soldiers are fighting strongly against Naxalism, the Union Home Minister is also determined to end Naxalism by March 2026. I am confident that his determination will be fulfilled," he told reporters. 8 Vishnu Deo Sai (@vishnudsai) January 6, 2025 Naxals have lost their mind as their plans are failing continuously and thats why they carried out this cowardly attack. In the end, naxalism will be wiped out from Chhattisgarh," he added. Deputy CM Arun Sao condemned the Naxal attack and assured that the sacrifice of the security personnel wont go in vain. Whenever big operations are carried out against Naxalites, they do such cowardly acts Chhattisgarh government will further intensify the steps it is taking against Naxalism. The government is not going to be afraid or bow down, strict action will continue against them," Chhattisgarh Assembly Speaker Raman Singh told ANI. This came after five Naxalites were killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarhs Bastar region. The gunfight broke out on Saturday evening at a forest in south Abujhmaad along the border of Narayanpur and Dantewada districts when a joint team of security personnel was out on an anti-Naxalite operation. Four Naxalites were found dead initially on Sunday, while one more body was recovered later, an official told news agency PTI. Dantewada DRG Head Constable Sannu Karam was also killed in action during the operation. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The anti-Naxal operation took place in the South Abujmarh forest area in the Narayanpur-Dantewada district border of Chhattisgarh, said IG Bastar. It was conducted by the STF in coordination with DRG teams from Narayanpur, Dantewada, Jagdalpur and Kondagaon districts. Earlier on Friday, at least three Naxalites were killed in an encounter with security forces in the Kandeshar village in Chhattisgarhs Gariaband district. Weapons were also recovered from the encounter site. Location : Bijapur, India First Published: January 06, 2025, 15:13 IST Chinas Crowded Hospitals, Kids On IV Drips: Not HMPV, Heres The Real Story Behind The Visuals Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Manjiri Joshi Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 17:36 IST Several studies show that the Chinese population tend to visit large hospitals and ask for IV drips even for minor illnesses, unlike India, where people typically consult local general practitioners first Videos circulating online showed China's hospitals overwhelmed with the influx of patients. (News18 Hindi) The alarming visuals emerging from China reportedly linked to the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) have sparked global fears, with many interpreting it as a potential resurgence of the Covid-19 pandemic. Some videos floating on social media show children looking frail, lying in hospital beds with intravenous (IV) drips, surrounded by nervous parents. Some pictures show crowded hospital wards, long queues of patients, and medical staff in protective gear, adding to the public alarm. related stories These distressing images are reminiscent of the visuals from the Covid-19 pandemic. But the real story behind these alarming visuals could be different. The truth lies in the difference in the healthcare culture of the Chinese. Several published studies show that the Chinese tend to visit large hospitals and ask for IV drips even for minor illnesses, unlike India, where people typically consult local general practitioners first. This means that during the ongoing harsh winter, when numerous infections are already circulating and infecting people, large hospitals become crowded and appear overwhelming. Lets understand why the Chinese flock to large hospitals even for minor illnesses. WHY DO VISUALS SHOW HOSPITALS OVERCROWDED? According to a Chinese study published in the International Journal of Health Policy and Management, the overall performance of public health centres (PHCs) in China remains unsatisfactory. PHCs are the first point of contact for medical services in any country. Despite the Chinese governments continued investment in PHC facilities over the past 10 years, patients are still concentrated in tertiary or big hospitals. Published evidence shows that Chinas healthcare system is severely fragmented" with poor coordination between primary, secondary and tertiary care. Without family doctors acting as gatekeepers", primary care fails to compete with big hospitals, leading to patients directly reaching out to tertiary hospitals, leaving the big hospitals crowded. WHY ARE LOCAL DOCTORS UNABLE TO FLOURISH IN CHINA? The daily rate of doctors treating patients in PHC institutions is only a quarter of that in tertiary hospitals. A common problem faced by family doctors is a lack of patient volume as a basic guarantee of the capacity of healthcare providers," said the Chinese study. Without sufficient patient volume, it is also difficult to improve the capacity of family doctors." Reports show that local PHC facilities correctly diagnosed 44.11% of standardised patients with unstable angina and asthma in a developed city in China, with a correct rate of treatment of only 24.19%. Another study conducted using data from Shanghai patients finds that patients trust in family doctors is low, with only 25.3% of patients stating that they had a high level of trust in their family doctor. Hence, big hospitals are quickly overwhelmed in China. WHY DO VISUALS SHOW CHILDREN UNDERGOING TREATMENT? Many unverified pictures and videos coming from Chinese hospitals show adults and children admitted to hospitals undergoing treatment, mostly taking IV drips. Taking IV drips is also a common practice in Chinese culture, many studies have shown. An article published in the medical journal BMJ written by a Chinese nurse working in the department of liver surgery showed that the country consumed 10.4 billion bottles of infusion fluid in 2009 roughly eight bottles on average for each inhabitant. Other countries, in contrast, rarely show consumption as high as 2.5 to 3 bottles per person. It showed that overuse of intravenous infusion is a controversial topic" in mainland China. Intravenous infusion of drugs or fluid is normally reserved for patients whose condition cannot be effectively treated by injection or drugs taken orally." In a conversation, Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, co-chairman at the National Indian Medical Association (IMA) COVID Task Force, shared an insight into the psychology of some Indian patients which many doctors can relate to. He spoke about patients who insist on prescribing medicines and drips even when they are not required medically. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all There are many patients who themselves ask doctors to prescribe medicines and request injections or multivitamins. These patients often doubt the doctors credibility if they are not given a prescription or are sent home empty-handed," he explained. In China, almost all patients are like this. They seek IV drips for their children and feel unserviced if the doctor denies." Therefore, depending on unverified visuals of crowded hospitals and young children receiving IV drips is insufficient to cause panic or unnecessary alarm. First Published: January 06, 2025, 08:00 IST Formula E Race Case: BRS Leader KT Rama Rao Submits Statement To ACB After Lawyer Denied Entry Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 16:52 IST Rama Rao reached the ACB headquarters shortly after 10 am and was barred from entering the premises by the police, who objected to the presence of his lawyer BRS working president KT Rama Rao (IMAGE: PTI FILE) High drama unfolded at the Telangana Anti-Corruption Bureau office here on Monday after BRS Working President K T Rama Rao, who was summoned in connection with the ongoing investigation into Formula E race case, was denied the company of his lawyer, prompting him to submit his statement outside the office. Rama Rao reached the ACB headquarters shortly after 10 am and was barred from entering the premises by the police, who objected to the presence of his lawyer. related stories The BRS leader, also known as KTR, spoke to the police officials while seated in his car. He handed over his written statement intended for submission to an ACB official, outside the office and returned without appearing before the officials. Asserting his fundamental right to legal representation KTR told the media that he insisted on his lawyers presence. The BRS leader further claimed that the ACB was planning to conduct raids at his residence. Now they (officials) are saying you cant take the lawyer inside. So, I have given my statement whatever I had to give inside the office, I have given my statement to the DSP rank officer of ACB. He has given me acknowledgement," he said. Rama Rao expressed concern over being denied the company of his lawyer during the inquiry by the ACB and said the state government might manipulate his statements similar to what happened with former BRS MLA Patnam Narender Reddy. Narender Reddy was arrested in connection with an attack on government officials in Vikarabad district in November last year. Calling Revanth Reddy a third-rate criminal", Rama Rao said he suspected that the ACB was acting under the directives of the Chief Minister. I am a law-abiding citizen. I am here, respecting the Anti-Corruption Bureau and its notice issued to me. I will also ensure that I will give all the information that they want. But (I will give) in the presence of my lawyer because they are, they were in the past, created a situation where things which were not said by our leader have reportedly been said. So I am suspecting that they are operating under the instructions of a third rated criminal called Revanth Reddy", Rama Rao said. Responding to a question about Rama Raos comments on the CM, Congress Lok Sabha MP Chamala Kiran Kumar Reddy said the BRS Working President is making such remarks out of frustration of losing power. The BRS leader should make responsible statements, Kiran Kumar Reddy told PTI. Rama Rao has been a minister for 10 years. He should show responsibility while appearing before investigation agencies, he said, adding that the former should give prior information if he wants to appear for questioning with his lawyer. In a notice seeking his appearance before it on Monday, the ACB asked Rama Rao to furnish information and documents pertaining to the case. In the statement submitted to the ACB, Rama Rao said since the matter is reserved for order, the ACB may consider deferring the questioning till the judgement is pronounced in the case and proceed further in accordance with law subject to the orders of the High Court which heard the arguments thoroughly from both the government and his sides. Being a law-abiding citizen, I will cooperate in the matter, subject to constitutional and legal rights as provided by law (of having a lawyer during the questioning)," he said. He further said the ACB in its notice has not given any details of the information and documents sought from him pertaining to the case. Rama Rao said the ACB should provide details of the documents sought, to take further action at his end after giving reasonable time. KTRs lawyer Soma Bharat Kumar told the reporters that having an advocate as an assistant is a fundamental right. Last week, the Telangana ACB served a notice to the BRS MLA to appear before it on January 6 after he was named as prime accused in the FIR. The ACB on December 19 registered a case against Rama Rao over alleged payments, some of it in foreign currency without approvals, to conduct the race in 2023 during the previous regime. The case was registered under relevant sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act and IPC dealing with criminal misappropriation, criminal misconduct, criminal breach of trust and criminal conspiracy that allegedly resulted in loss to the government exchequer to the tune of about Rs 55 crore. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Though the race was supposed to be held in February 2024 as well, it was cancelled after the Congress government assumed office in December 2023. Rama Rao, who was Municipal Administration Minister during the previous BRS regime, was also summoned by the ED for questioning on January 7 over alleged irregularities in conducting the race in Hyderabad. First Published: January 06, 2025, 16:52 IST 'Don't Panic, Not Covid-Like Situation': Experts As India Reports First HMPV Cases Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 23:20 IST Health experts, however, warned that viral infections increase in children during the winter season and they should not be sent to school if they display common cold symptoms Experts said for protection, all those with the common cold must ensure they follow Covid guidelines such as wearing a mask in public. (Image: AFP) As India reported its first cases of the human metapneumovirus, or HMPV, health experts said the outbreak is not a public health emergency, or a Covid-like" situation. They, however, warned that viral infections increase in children during the winter season and they should not be sent to school if they display common cold symptoms. Five infants tested positive for HMPV in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat on Monday, even as Union health minister JP Nadda sought to assuage fears saying the government is closely monitoring the situation and there is no reason to worry. related stories Echoing Nadda, former ICMR scientist Dr Raman Gangakhedkar told CNN-News18 that India should not be worried about the virus, as it had always been present in the country but only recently detected. He said it is detected more in its milder form during winter and does not lead to death. There are no studies globally where case fatality has been documented. This is a common cold virus and children only get infected as elders are getting repeatedly infected by the virus," he told CNN-News18. ALSO READ | Explained: Is HMPV Similar To Covid-19, How Does It Spread? All You Need To Know About The Disease Gangakhedkar, however, cautioned that children aged below five and showing symptoms of the common cold should not be sent to school, as they could end up spreading the infection. For protection, all those who have the common cold must ensure they follow Covid guidelines if they have a child below 5 years of age. If your child is under 5 and has the common cold, they should not be sent to school because they will spread the infection among others" he said. He further said the virus will cause a more severe kind of disease" in children as they have been infected by it for the first time. Infants tend to show antibodies against the virus We should not be worried about the virus," he added. The expert also said globally, every country reports HMPV among all respiratory illnesses. He said the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) conducted a study between 2016 and 2018, where 16,000 patients were tested for the virus as well as other respiratory viruses. The virus was found in them, which confirmed it was present in India, he added. ALSO READ | Human Metapneumovirus: Has HMPV Been Around Since 1958? Why Was It Taken Lightly In 2001? VIRUS PEAKS IN INFANTS IN 6-12 MONTHS AGE GROUP Adding to Gangakhedkars views, Dr Sanjeev Bagai, Padma Shri and chairman of Nephron Clinic, told CNN-News18 that HMPV has been around in the world for the past two-and-a-half decades. Dr Bagai said while there is no self-medication or antivirals and approved vaccines for this virus, neither are required. Dont panic. Its not a Covid-like situation; the virus is bringing attention to respiratory infections in winter, which increase especially in children. The virus peaks in infants in the age group of six to 12 months," he said. He further said parents must ensure children are hydrated and well-fed with nutritious food. He, too, emphasised the importance of precautionary measures. Three important things: wear a mask, go to areas that are well-ventilated, keep your surroundings clean and dont come in contact with infected people," he added. The HMPV is a globally recognised respiratory virus that recently gained attention after its outbreak was reported in China. It is a viral pathogen that causes respiratory infections in people of all age groups. The virus was first discovered in 2001 and belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family. It spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, as well as by touching contaminated surfaces or coming into direct contact with infected individuals. While the Karnataka, Gujarat, and Maharashtra governments assured that there was no cause for alarm, the Delhi government directed all hospitals in the capital to remain fully prepared to manage a potential surge in respiratory illnesses. WHAT ARE THE CASES? Two cases were detected in Karnataka by the ICMR through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens. A three-month-old girl with a history of bronchopneumonia was diagnosed with HMPV after being admitted to Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru. She has already been discharged, the health ministry said. An eight-month-old boy with a history of bronchopneumonia tested positive for HMPV on January 3 after being admitted to Baptist Hospital. He is now recovering, it said. Neither have any history of international travel, the ministry underlined. ALSO READ | HMPV Reoccurs In Winters: China Downplays Outbreak, Indian Doctors Agree With Explanation In neighbouring Tamil Nadu, two more children tested positive for the virus. These two are the first cases to be reported from the city and are undergoing treatment in two hospitals, officials said. The fifth case was reported from Gujarats Ahmedabad. A two-month-old boy admitted to a private hospital in the city tested positive for HMPV. The infant, who hails from Dungarpur in Rajasthan, was hospitalised on December 24, 2024, with symptoms of respiratory infection. Initially, the child needed ventilator support but his condition is stable now, Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation medical officer Bhavin Solanki said. WHAT IS THE GOVT SAYING? Nadda said the government is closely monitoring the situation and there is no reason to worry. He said HMPV is not a new virus and no surge in any of the common respiratory virus pathogens has been observed in the country. In a video message, he said in the wake of the recent reports of the virus in China, the health ministry, ICMR, and National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) are keeping a close watch on the situation in the neighbouring country and others in the region. ALSO READ | Chinas HMPV Outbreak Not A Threat Unless Top Epidemiologist Says Indians Can Breathe Easy For Now top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The Union health minister said the World Health Organization (WHO) has taken cognisance of the situation and will share the report shortly with us". The country data for respiratory viruses available with ICMR and integrated disease surveillance programme has also been reviewed and no surge in any of the common respiratory virus pathogens is observed in India," he said. (With PTI inputs) First Published: January 06, 2025, 22:53 IST After 2 Bengaluru Cases, 1 HMPV Infection Detected In Gujarat Amid Surge In China Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Vani Mehrotra Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 14:08 IST Karnataka has reported two cases, while Gujarat has reported a single case of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection, the ICMR has confirmed. HMPV cases reported in India Three cases of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) were reported in India on Monday, amid a surge in such cases in China. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), two infants eight-month-old and three-month-old tested positive for the virus in Bengaluru. A third case was reported from Gujarat where a two-month-old child was diagnosed with the HMPV. related stories The children were admitted to hospitals for treatment. The three-month-old child in Bengaluru was discharged later. According to the details, one of the children had travelled to Tirupati. However, no international travel history was found in the cases of the three children. The cases were confirmed by the ICMR through routine surveillance The case of the eight-month-old child was confirmed by the Karnataka Health Department, which said medical tests of the child turned out to be positive. The case was conveyed to the Union Health Ministry, the Department said. It was not clear whether this was the same strain of HMPV causing a spike in China. Meanwhile, the Karnataka Health Minister called for an emergency meeting with Health Ministry officials today over the cases. The ICMR emphasised that HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and cases of respiratory illnesses associated with it have been reported in various countries. Furthermore, based on the current data from the ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) network, there has been no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases in the country, it added. The ministry said it is monitoring the situation through all available surveillance channels. The ICMR will continue to track trends in HMPV circulation throughout the year. According to the American Society for Microbiology, since the discovery of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in 2001, the virus has been identified worldwide. In 2001, Van Den Hoogen reported the discovery of a novel virus in children with respiratory tract illness in The Netherlands. RSV or Respiratory Syncytial Virus, a pneumovirus, is the most closely related human pathogen to HMPV, and the genomes of the viruses have similar features as well as distinct differences. On January 4, China reportedly downplayed the concern over the rising HMPV cases by calling it annual seasonal reoccurrence". While confirming the surge in cases, a Chinese foreign ministry official blamed it on the winter season". He assured tourists and citizens that it is safe to travel in the country. A day earlier, on January 3, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in India said it was closely monitoring respiratory and seasonal influenza cases in the country and is in touch with international agencies in the wake of the recent reports of the HMPV outbreak in China. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and validate information and developments accordingly," a senior official was quoted by news agency PTI as saying. Director General of Health Services (DGHS) Dr Atul Goel said the Human Metapneumovirus is like any other respiratory virus which causes common cold, and it could cause flu-like symptoms in the young and the very old. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He also advised the public to take the general precautions that are used to prevent respiratory infections which means if someone has a cough and cold they should avoid coming in contact with others so that the infection does not spread. People should follow respiratory etiquette and take normal medicines for cold and fever that are there, he said. First Published: January 06, 2025, 09:38 IST Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) and COVID-19 share several similarities, as both cause respiratory symptoms such as cough, fever, congestion, sore throat, and shortness of breath. They are also transmitted through respiratory droplets, according to WebMD. However, there are notable differences in their behavior and seasonality: Seasonality: According to Science Direct, COVID-19 shows temperature sensitivity and seasonal patterns. Similarly, the CDC notes that HMPV, while detectable year-round, typically peaks in the U.S. from late winter to early spring. Impact of COVID-19 Restrictions: Studies indicate that HMPV cases tripled in some areas after COVID-19 restrictions were lifted. The reduced exposure to viruses during lockdowns likely weakened population immunity, leading to a rise in respiratory infections once precautions were relaxed. Despite their similarities, the viruses have distinct characteristics, including differences in severity, long-term immunity, and the availability of vaccines and treatments, with COVID-19 having vaccines and antiviral treatments, unlike HMPV. 'No Reason To Worry': Government Says HMPV Virus Not New As India Reports 5 Cases Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 20:29 IST India on Monday reported five cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) as two infants in Bengaluru, one infant in Ahmedabad and two children in Chennai tested positive for the virus. Health minister JP Nadda (ANI) As India reports five cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) on Monday, Union Health Minister JP Nadda addressed the concerns saying that it is not a new virus. He further urged the citizens not to panic and remain calm. The virus, first identified in 2001, has been present globally for several years, he said. related stories Nadda released a video message in which he emphasised that the government is closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary steps to ensure public safety. #WATCH | Union Health Minister JP Nadda says, Health experts have clarified that #HMPV is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001 and it has been circulating in the entire world since many years. HMPV spreads through air, by way of respiration. This can affect persons pic.twitter.com/h1SSshe2iQ ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025 Health experts have clarified that HMPV is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001 and it has been circulating in the entire world since many years. HMPV spreads through air, by way of respiration. This can affect persons of all age groups. The virus spreads more during the winter and the early spring months," he said. Follow HMPV Virus Live Updates Here Responding to the concerns over the surge in HMPV cases in China, Nadda said that Indian health agencies and authorities are actively monitoring the situation. The Health Ministry, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) are keeping a close watch on developments in China and neighbouring countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) has acknowledged the situation and will provide a detailed report shortly," he said. The union minister further said that the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program (IDSP) shows no significant surge in respiratory viral pathogens in India as of now. The countrys health systems and surveillance networks remain vigilant to ensure a prompt response to any emerging health challenges. There is no reason to worry. We are closely monitoring the situation," he added. India Reports 5 Cases of HMPV Five children tested positive for the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat on Monday, the first reported cases of the virus in India. Two of the five cases were detected in Karnataka by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens. A three-month-old female infant with a history of bronchopneumonia was diagnosed with HMPV in Bengaluru. She has already been discharged, the health ministry said. Additionally, an eight-month-old male infant with a history of bronchopneumonia tested positive for HMPV on January 3 after being admitted to Baptist Hospital. He is now recovering, it said. A two-month-old boy admitted to a private hospital in Ahmedabad also tested positive for HMPV. The infant, who hails from Dungarpur in Rajasthan, was admitted to the hospital on December 24, 2024, with symptoms of respiratory infection. Initially, the child needed ventilator support but his condition is stable now, Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation medical officer Bhavin Solanki said, as reported by news agency PTI. Additionally, two children were tested positive for the virus in Chennai. These two are the first cases to be reported from the city from two hospitals. What Is HMPV? HMPV is a globally recognised respiratory virus that recently gained attention after its outbreak was reported in China. It is a viral pathogen that causes respiratory infections in people of all age groups. According to the Cleveland Clinic website, a virus a small germ that uses your cells to make more copies of itself causes human metapneumovirus (HMPV). It is a virus that usually causes symptoms similar to the common cold. It often causes upper respiratory infections, but it can sometimes cause lower respiratory infections like pneumonia, asthma flare-ups or make chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) worse. HMPV infections are more common in the winter and early spring. Govt Issues Advisory Delhi health authorities on Sunday issued an advisory to ensure preparedness for potential health challenges related to HMPV. According to a statement, Dr Vandana Bagga, Director General of Health Services, convened a meeting with chief district medical officers and the state programme officer of IDSP on Sunday to discuss preparedness to address respiratory illnesses in Delhi. While the Karnataka, Gujarat and Maharashtra governments assured that there was no cause for alarm. Meanwhile, the Union health ministry emphasised that HMPV is already in circulation globally. The ministry said it is monitoring the situation through all available surveillance channels. The ICMR will continue to track trends in HMPV circulation throughout the year, it said. The recent preparedness drill conducted across the country has shown that India is well-equipped to handle any potential increase in respiratory illnesses and public health interventions can be deployed promptly if needed, the ministry stated. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said citizens must not panic amid the detection of HMPV cases in some other states and asserted his government will soon issue a comprehensive advisory on the situation. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, meanwhile, said no HMPV case has been found in the metropolis. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also confirmed on Monday that no HMPV cases have so far been detected in the state. (With inputs from agencies) First Published: January 06, 2025, 19:46 IST Photo: MFA of Ukraine The path to peace lies through strengthening and increasing the cost of war for the Russian Federation, said Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha. "Now is not the time for Ukraine's partners to falter or tire. Weakness, compromises on fundamental issues or appeasement will harm not only Ukraine but also the rest of Europe and the US. The path to peace lies through strengthening Ukraine and raising the cost for the aggressor," he wrote on X. "Strategic mistakes will be very costly in the long run. Russian aggression against Ukraine must be resolved in a just way to ensure long-term security for Europe and the United Sates. For this, we need principled and strong leadership, capable of achieving peace through strength," the minister added. 'Old Practice To Blame Neighbours': India Condemns Pakistan Airstrikes On Afghanistan Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 14:41 IST India slammed Pakistan over airstrikes in Afghanistan that killed over 40 people and said that it is the "old habit" of Pakistan to blame its neighbours for its failures. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal (Photo: YouTube/MEA) The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday condemned Pakistans airstrikes on Afghanistan recently which claimed over 40 lives in the Paktika province and said that it is an old practice of Pakistan to blame its neighbours for its own internal failures". We have noted the media reports on airstrikes on Afghan civilians, including women and children, in which several precious lives have been lost," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X. related stories We unequivocally condemn any attack on innocent civilians. It is an old practice of Pakistan to blame its neighbours for its own internal failures. We have also noted the response of an Afghan spokesperson in this regard," he added. Our response to media queries regarding airstrikes on Afghan civilians:https://t.co/59QC0N6mOY pic.twitter.com/UsrkFGJVBZ Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) January 6, 2025 Pakistani Airstrikes On Afghanistan The airstrikes on the Barmal district in Afghanistans Paktika province on the night of December 24 killed at least 46 people, including women and children. Six more people, mainly children, sustained injuries in the attack, according to the Taliban government. The Pakistani airstrikes impacted seven villages. Laman suffered major casualties, including the deaths of five members of a single family. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Following the attacks, tensions flared at the border, leading to violent clashes. A Pakistani paramilitary soldier was killed, and seven others were injured in cross-border exchanges of fire with Afghan forces. The incident followed protests by hundreds of Afghans against Pakistans deadly airstrikes. Security officials from both countries confirmed sporadic skirmishes, involving heavy weaponry, between border forces along the boundary separating Pakistans Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and Afghanistans Khost province. First Published: January 06, 2025, 14:28 IST Karnataka HC Refuses To Quash FIR Against Atul Subhash's Wife: 'All Ingredients Made Out...' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 13:38 IST Karnataka HC said the FIR against Nikita Singhania, deceased techie Atul Subhash's estranged wife, had all the details for the alleged offence of abetment to suicide. Bengaluru techie Atul Subhash's wife Nikita Singhania was charged with abetment to suicide. (File) The Karnataka High Court on Monday refused to quash the FIR against Atul Subhashs wife Nikita Singhania, saying all ingredients of the offence of suicide abetment seemed prima facie present in the FIR against her. Atul Subhash, a software engineer in Bengaluru, died by suicide last month after alleging harassment by his wife and his in-laws. His death sparked a national outcry demanding tougher laws on women and alimony. Nikita Singhania, her mother Nisha Singhania and brother Anurag Singhania were booked for abetment of suicide on the basis of the complaint filed by the deceaseds brother. related stories While hearing the case, Karnataka HC Justice SR Krishna Kumar said, My reading of this complaint is that ingredients are made out. And it is not a case of quashing." Singhanias lawyer said the FIR was challenged as it does not disclose the commission of the offence, but the court said that the complaint has all the details regarding the alleged offence. Details are given (in the complaint and FIR). Look at the complaint. All details are given. Tell me what more should have been given for abetment of suicide? According to me, all contents of abetment are there. Everything is narrated. In matters of this type, what more do you want?" the HC further said. The hearing was adjourned after the court asked the prosecution to submit details of the probe conducted so far and the material collected. Nikita Singhania and her family members were granted interim bail by a Bengaluru court on a Saturday in connection to the abetment of suicide case filed against them. They had approached the session court in Bengaluru for bail in the case. Nikita was arrested from Haryanas Gurugram on December 15, while her mother and brother were earlier arrested from Prayagraj and produced before the court in Bengaluru, after which they were sent to judicial custody. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Atul Subhash, who worked for an automobile company in Bengaluru, allegedly took his own life on December 9 after being pressured by his wife, Nikita Singhania, and her family to pay a Rs 3 crore divorce settlement. He left behind a 90-minute video and a 40-page death note, detailing how his wifes harassment drove him to take the extreme step. His video went viral on social media, creating a storm with users flagging the misuse of laws in the society. Nikita and her family were reportedly on the run since Atuls video went viral, leading to the registration of the FIR by the Marathahalli police. First Published: January 06, 2025, 13:19 IST Kerala Lottery Results Today: Win Win W-803 Winners for January 6, 2025 WU 918188 Ticket Wins Rs 75 Lakh (Full List) Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: January 11, 2025, 09:21 IST Kerala Lottery Results Today: Here's FULL LIST of winning numbers for Win Win W-803 lucky draw for Monday, January 6, 2025. Kerala Lottery Win Win W-803 Results: The first prize winner of Win Win W-803 will get Rs 75 Lakh. (Image: Shutterstock) KERALA LOTTERY WIN WIN W-803 RESULT ON MONDAY, 6.1.2025, LIVE UPDATES: The Kerala State Lottery Department has announced the results of the Win-Win W-803 lucky draw for Monday, January 6. The winner of the first prize will receive Rs Rs. 75 lakh, while the second and third prize winners will get Rs. 5 lakh and Rs. 1 lakh respectively. Check the Full List of Winning Numbers below. ALSO READ: Kerala Lottery Results: Karunya KR-688 WINNERS for January 11, 2025; First Prize Rs 80 Lakh! related stories FULL LIST OF WINNING NUMBERS FOR WIN WIN W-803 LOTTERY WINNING NUMBERS FOR CONSOLATION PRIZE OF RS 8,000 ARE WN 918188 WO 918188 WP 918188 WR 918188 WS 918188 WT 918188 WV 918188 WW 918188 WX 918188 WY 918188 WZ 918188 WINNING NUMBER FOR 1ST PRIZE OF RS 75 LAKH IS WU 918188 (PUNALUR) Agent Name: MANIKANTAN Agency No.: Q 5760 WINNING NUMBER FOR 2ND PRIZE OF RS 5 LAKH IS WY 292282 (GURUVAYOOR) Agent Name: JIMMY Agency No.: R 7356 WINNING NUMBER FOR 3RD PRIZE OF RS 1 LAKH ARE WN 202565 WO 298784 WP 895160 WR 560725 WS 277305 WT 275399 WU 223830 WV 644929 WW 862855 WX 105100 WY 403627 WZ 199130 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 4TH PRIZE OF RS 5,000 ARE 0243 0267 1005 1092 1620 2627 2633 2933 3414 4278 4378 4550 5269 5272 5444 5836 6459 7441 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 5TH PRIZE OF RS 2,000 ARE 0272 2844 2864 6427 6524 6633 7159 8230 8686 9982 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 6TH PRIZE OF RS 1,000 ARE 0109 3948 4151 4534 5238 5584 6256 8184 8507 8847 9685 9827 9993 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 7TH PRIZE OF RS 500 ARE 0096 0265 0288 0300 0381 0629 0648 0804 0852 1350 1552 1587 1732 1741 1758 1962 2128 2252 2454 2581 2641 2670 2769 2770 2913 3133 3164 3244 3371 3602 3819 3909 4107 4160 4433 4515 4516 4837 5107 5153 5217 5277 5359 5423 5905 5952 5966 5978 6066 6178 6213 6301 6373 6374 6540 6555 6604 6631 6661 6813 7038 7259 7626 7901 7939 8100 8151 8403 8521 8650 8651 8833 9019 9317 9333 9342 9378 9534 9679 9823 9825 9946 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 8TH PRIZE OF RS 100 ARE 0056 0239 0290 0429 0468 0513 0522 0789 0937 0973 1082 1210 1260 1328 1330 1484 1522 2014 2092 2326 2474 2506 2594 2647 2829 2999 3090 3271 3295 3453 3472 3526 3535 3543 3625 3696 3790 3830 3882 3891 3902 3967 3977 3992 4057 4181 4337 4387 4400 4401 4548 4563 4664 4737 4818 4893 5139 5156 5305 5381 5492 5537 5554 5588 5594 5656 5689 6002 6003 6187 6277 6293 6453 6507 6583 6590 6684 6697 6793 6860 6940 7138 7143 7151 7162 7239 7246 7262 7267 7425 7473 7525 7540 7563 7569 7589 7621 7673 7837 7854 7873 7889 7911 7928 8020 8139 8308 8368 8387 8427 8531 8585 8660 8837 8868 8873 8890 8996 9007 9063 9351 9431 9455 9494 9500 9554 WIN WIN W-803 LOTTERY: PRIZE STRUCTURE 1st Prize: Rs 75 Lakh 2nd Prize: Rs. 5 Lakh 3rd Prize: Rs. 1 Lakh 4th Prize: Rs. 5,000 5th Prize: Rs. 2,000 6th Prize: Rs. 1,000 7th Prize: Rs. 500 8thPrize : Rs. 100 Consolation Prize: Rs. 8,000 HOW TO CHECK WIN-WIN W-803 RESULTS? The Kerala Lottery Departments official website, keralalottery.info, will include the Win-Win W-803 lottery results. As an alternative, you can personally confirm the results at the Kerala Government Gazette office. HOW TO CLAIM YOUR PRIZE MONEY? To find out if you won, compare your ticket number with the results that were released in the Kerala Government Gazette. You can be the lucky winner if the number on your ticket matches the winning number. Within 30 days of the results being announced, winners must pick up their prize at the Kerala Lottery headquarters in Gorky Bhavan. Bring your winning ticket and a legitimate photo ID for verification when you pick up your prize. DOCUMENTS REQUIRED TO CLAIM PRIZE MONEY? 1. A self-attestation photocopy of the winning ticket showing both sides. 2. Passport-size photographs signed by a Gazetted officer. 3. A copy of the participants signed PAN card. 4. Complete the online prize claim form and attach a revenue stamp before submitting. 5. Valid identification documents such voter IDs, Aadhaar cards, PAN cards, or ration cards. HOW TO DOWNLOAD A PDF WITH A FULL LIST OF WINNING NUMBERS? Go to the Kerala Lottery Departments official website at keralalotteries.info or keralalotteryresult.net. Click on the appropriate link to view the Win-Win W-803 lottery results. The results page will display the draws winning numbers. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all On the website, look for the option to download the results. Click on the provided link to view and analyse the lottery results in PDF format. Location : Thiruvananthapuram [Trivandrum], India First Published: January 06, 2025, 09:00 IST Kumbh Mela: Banners Hailing Mafia Atiq Ahmeds Killers Spark Outrage Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 19:54 IST While the banners were removed, Jagadguru Ramanandacharya Narendracharya defended such slogans In Kumbh 2019, the total footfall was 25 crore, which is expected to touch 40 crore in 2025. (Getty) A controversy erupted in Uttar Pradesh as banners featuring slain mafia Atiq Ahmed and his alleged killers, labelled as devdoot" (angels), surfaced at the Mahakumbh site. The banners, reportedly placed by activists claiming to represent the Rashtriya Hindu Dal, sparked outrage. Authorities promptly removed the posters and launched an investigation. related stories WHO IS ATIQ AHMED? Ahmed, a controversial figure with a history of criminal and political activities, was assassinated earlier last year. Atiq Ahmed Ka Atank Mukt Pratham Mahakumbha Me Aapka Swagat Hai read one of the banners up in the Mahakumbh area. Other banners bore the image of Atiqs assassins, stating that their family members would be felicitated during Mahakumbh. Ahmed, a name synonymous with notoriety in UP, had a long and tumultuous career marked by allegations of murder, extortion, and political manipulation. Born in Prayagraj, Ahmed rose from humble beginnings to become a powerful mafia don and later a politician, serving as an MLA and MP. Despite his political successes, his criminal activities overshadowed his career, making him a controversial figure both in life and death. In April 2024, Ahmed was killed in a dramatic and publicised incident. His murder sent shockwaves through the state and the nation, triggering debates about law and order, vigilante justice, and the nexus between crime and politics. The three individuals accused of his murder were arrested, but their motivations remain shrouded in mystery, with various theories ranging from personal vendetta to orchestrated elimination. THE SANATAN DEBATE However, the controversy intensified at the Mahakumbh as district officials identified Roshan Pandey, president of Rashtriya Hindu Dal, as responsible for the posters. Alongside these, other contentious banners were removed during an administrative cleanup, sparking protests from seers. Jagadguru Ramanandacharya Narendracharya defended such slogans, citing threats to Sanatan Dharma. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In October 2024, the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad (ABAP) announced plans to bar non-Sanatani" individuals, indirectly targeting Muslims, from entering or setting up stalls at the upcoming Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. The decision stemmed from alleged videos depicting members of a specific community contaminating food. The ABAP had also demanded Sanatani police officials for the event and proposed renaming rituals with Farsi origins, such as Shahi Snan and Peshwai, sparking debates related to religious inclusivity and tradition. The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, considered as one of the worlds largest gatherings, is scheduled to commence on January 13, 2025, with the Paush Purnima Snan, and will conclude on February 26, 2025, coinciding with Mahashivratri. First Published: January 06, 2025, 19:16 IST Main Accused In Chhattisgarh Journalist Murder Case Arrested From Hyderabad Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 13:14 IST Chhattisgarh Journalist Murder Case: A Special Investigation Team (SIT) arrested main accused Suresh Chandrakar in journalist Mukesh Chandrakar's murder case. Journalist Mukesh Chandrakar (Photo: X/Mukesh Chandrakar) Chhattisgarh Journalist Murder Case: A Special Investigation Team (SIT), formed to investigate journalist Mukesh Chandrakars murder, arrested the main accused in the case, Suresh Chandrakar, during a late-night operation in Hyderabad on Monday. The total number of arrests in the murder case rose to four as the Chhattisgarh Police on Saturday arrested three individuals in connection with the murder of Mukesh Chandrakar, who went missing on New Years Day and was later found dead in a septic tank at a road contractors premises in Bijapur district. related stories Mukesh, known for his bold investigative reporting, had recently exposed alleged corruption in a Rs 120 crore road construction project spanning from Gangalur to Hiroli in the Bastar region. Police suspect that individuals affected by his reporting might be involved in his murder. #WATCH | Prime accused of journalist Mukesh Chandrakars murder case, Suresh Chandrakar, who was absconding after the crime, has been detained. The accused was detained from Hyderabad late last night by the SIT and he is being questionedIn Bijapur, SIT in-charge, Mayank Gurjar pic.twitter.com/f4hCz9Wb7D ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025 The project, worth of which went from Rs 50 crore to Rs 120 crore without any changes to the effect of the works scope, was reportedly being handled by contractor Suresh Chandrakar, who has now been arrested from Hyderabad. Earlier, his own cousin Ritesh Chandrakar was arrested along with two others in Mukesh Chandrakars murder case. Ritesh, who is the brother of Suresh Chandrakar, allegedly arranged a meeting of the contractor with Mukesh on the night of January 1. Following the meeting, Mukeshs phone went offline, and he was reported missing by his elder brother, Yukesh Chandrakar, who filed a complaint, prompting the police to initiate a search in which authorities reviewed CCTV footage and identified his last known location. The journalists body was discovered two days later in a septic tank on a property owned by Suresh in Chattanpara, where he was last seen. A postmortem examination of the journalist uncovered the brutal nature of the murder, revealing 15 fractures to the head, a broken neck, and the victims heart being ripped out. Police arrested three suspects, including Ritesh, and another family member, Dinesh Chandrakar. However, Suresh Chandrakar, the contractor at the centre of the corruption scandal, remained absconding. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was constituted to probe Mukesh Chandrakars death and to arrest the fourth accused Suresh. Police have also seized three bank accounts of contractor Suresh, according to reports. First Published: January 06, 2025, 09:04 IST 'No Cause For Alarm': Maharashtra Intensifies Surveillance As HMPV Cases Rise In China Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 10:06 IST The Maharashtra health department reassured the public that there is no cause for concern over the outbreak of HMPV in China. Maharashtra issues advisory amid rise in HMPV cases in China | Representative Image The recent surge in Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China has prompted the Maharashtra health department to issue a precautionary advisory, directing the health officials to intensify surveillance for severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) and Influenza-like Illnesses (ILI) cases. HMPV, a common respiratory virus that causes cold-like upper respiratory tract infections, primarily affects young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems, particularly during the winter months. It can pose serious risks to immunocompromised individuals. related stories There is no need for the citizens to panic and the officials are asked to submit reports of SARI and ILI cases," Dr Nitin Ambadekar, director of health services, said in the state health advisory. The health department reassured the public that there is no cause for concern over the outbreak of HMPV in China. Currently, no HMPV cases have been reported in Maharashtra. Reports have emerged of an outbreak of HMPV in China. This virus is a significant cause of acute respiratory infections and was first reported and identified in the Netherlands in 2001. It is a common respiratory virus that primarily causes infections in the upper respiratory tract," read the advisory. The advisory encourages individuals to exercise preventive measures by covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, washing hands frequently with soap, and avoiding public places if symptomatic. Earlier, the Union Health Ministry assured that it was closely monitoring the situation, with updates from WHO. Bengaluru Reports Indias First HMPV Case An eight-month-old child in Bengaluru has tested positive for HMPV amid a surge in such cases in China. The child was receiving treatment at a private hospital in the city, said officials, adding that the child does not have any travel history. The case was confirmed by the Karnataka Health Department, which said medical tests of the child turned out to be positive. The case was conveyed to the Union Health Ministry, the Department said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all It was not clear whether this was the same strain of HMPV causing a spike in China. On January 4, China reportedly downplayed the concern over the rising HMPV cases by calling it annual seasonal reoccurrence". While confirming the surge in cases, a Chinese foreign ministry official blamed it on the winter season". He assured tourists and citizens that it is safe to travel in the country. Location : Maharashtra, India First Published: January 06, 2025, 09:59 IST PM Modi Meets Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, Discusses AI And Innovation Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 21:35 IST Following the meeting in the national capital, Nadella took to X to thank the Indian leader for his leadership and support. rime Minister Narendra Modi met with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella on Monday (Image: X/ @satyanadella) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and held discussions on a wide range of topics, including technology, innovation, and artificial intelligence (AI). Following the meeting in the national capital, Nadella took to X to thank the Indian leader for his leadership and support. related stories Thank you, PM @narendramodi ji for your leadership. Excited to build on our commitment to making India AI-first and work together on our continued expansion in the country to ensure every Indian benefits from this AI platform shift," he said, sharing a photograph of the meeting. PM Modi also replied to Nadellas post, highlighting the importance of their discussions and welcoming Microsofts ambitious plans for India. It was indeed a delight to meet you, @satyanadella! Glad to know about Microsofts ambitious expansion and investment plans in India. It was also wonderful discussing various aspects of tech, innovation and AI in our meeting," he said on X. It was indeed a delight to meet you, @satyanadella! Glad to know about Microsofts ambitious expansion and investment plans in India. It was also wonderful discussing various aspects of tech, innovation and AI in our meeting. https://t.co/ArK8DJYBhK Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 6, 2025 The meeting highlighted Microsofts growing engagement with India and its commitment to advancing AI-driven solutions in the country. Earlier last month, the tech giant CEO met Telangana chief minister Revanth Reddy in Hyderabad. Reddy had sought the IT majors support to develop a strong ecosystem so that Hyderabad is recognised as a leading city in the world in the technology domain. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The Microsoft CEO had reiterated the tech giants commitment to partnering with the state government on all its initiatives. He had appreciated the chief ministers vision of enhancing skills and improving infrastructure to the next level and opined that only these two factors can position Hyderabad among the top 50 cities in the world for creating economic growth. Microsoft is one of the earliest technology companies in Hyderabad and has grown to a workforce of 10,000 over the years. It has also invested in a 600 MW data centre capacity in the state. First Published: January 06, 2025, 21:18 IST Positive Announcements Expected During US NSA Sullivans India Visit: Top Govt Sources Reported By : CNN-News18 Edited By: Apoorva Misra Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 10:05 IST Jake Sullivan is expected to meet the top Indian leadership and hold crucial talks with Indias NSA Ajit Doval about various aspects of the India-US strategic partnership, including defence, security, and technology cooperation NSA Jake Sullivan will also discuss the impact of Chinese dams on Tibet. (PTI) US national security adviser Jake Sullivans India visit must be seen in a positive direction", with a series of constructive announcements expected from the United States, top government sources have told CNN-News18. Sullivan is expected to meet the top Indian leadership and hold crucial talks with Indias NSA Ajit Doval. They will likely discuss various aspects of the India-US strategic partnership, including defence, security, and technology cooperation, the sources added. related stories Sullivans trip comes days after External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar concluded a six-day visit to the US. One of the key areas of focus will be the US-India Initiative for Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET). This is aimed to increase cooperation in areas like Artificial Intelligence, quantum computing, semiconductors, and space. The iCET was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Biden in May 2022 with an aim to forge greater collaboration between the two countries in areas of critical technologies. Sullivan and Doval have been jointly leading the initiative and the aim is to continue this under the new Donald Trump administration. The inauguration of Trump as the 47th president of the US will take place on January 20. Sullivan last visited India in June 2024. Sullivans visit will also discuss the impact of Chinese dams on Tibet. The discussions will focus on the implications of Chinese dams, particularly the hydropower dam being built on the Yarlung Zangbo River in Tibet, which flows into India. India has expressed concerns to China about the potential water supply impact of this dam. Washington and its Western allies have long viewed India as a counter to Chinas rising influence in Asia and beyond. Weve certainly seen in many places in the Indo-Pacific that upstream dams that the Chinese have created, including in the Mekong region, can have really potentially damaging environmental but also climate impacts on downstream countries," a senior US official had said ahead of Sullivans visit. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Civilian Nuclear Cooperation is also on the agenda, sources said, apart from a discussion on military licensing and Chinese economic overcapacity. Washington and New Delhi have built close ties in recent years with occasional differences over issues like minority abuse in India, New Delhis ties with Russia amid Moscows invasion of Ukraine and alleged assassination plots against Sikh separatists on US and Canadian soil. First Published: January 06, 2025, 10:05 IST Prashant Kishor, Arrested For 'Illegal' Protest, Claims To Get 'Unconditional' Bail Hours After Judicial Remand Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 22:31 IST Kishor has thrown his weight behind an ongoing protest by civil service aspirants to press the demand for cancellation of Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) exams held last month amid allegations of question paper leak. Jan Suraaj Party Chief Prashant Kishor being produced before a local court after he was arrested during a hunger strike (PTI) Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor, who was arrested for an "illegal" fast unto death, claimed that he was released on "unconditional" bail on Monday hours after a court remanded him to judicial custody. Earlier, he refused to secure release, alleging that the bail conditions were "unreasonable". related stories On a day of dramatic developments, Kishor was picked up from the Gandhi Maidan early in the morning, in pursuance of an FIR lodged against him last week for holding Aamaran anshan (fast unto death) at Gandhi Maidan, in violation of a Patna High Court order that forbids any such demonstration at a place other than Gardani Bagh locality in the city. The former poll strategist was produced before a court here which granted him bail with the condition that, he claimed, he must give a written undertaking not to take part in any "illegal" protest in future. Kishor and his legal team held that the condition was tantamount to "admitting guilt" and the 47-year-old was remanded to judicial custody. The Jan Suraaj Party founder was later released by the authorities. Kishor, who addressed the media late in the evening upon his release, claimed, "The local administration was so ill-prepared that it could not take me to the Beur Central Jail, after judicial remand, since they did not have the requisite papers. They kept driving me along in their vehicle". Patna High Court advocate Kumar Amit, who also spoke on the occasion, said, "After the judge had passed the order, we argued before her that all the sections under which Prashant Kishor was booked, are bailable. As such, he should have been granted bail by the police itself. The matter need not have been taken to the court". He added, "We reasoned before the judge that under such circumstances, it was not proper to insist on a written undertaking. We also cited a number of judgements by the higher courts, including the Supreme Court. The judge very kindly agreed to modify her earlier order and granted unconditional bail". An ebullient Kishor said he would continue his "Satyagraha" at the Gandhi Maidan and remarked, "The concluding point should be the same as where things had commenced". Notably, Kishor has thrown his weight behind an ongoing protest by civil service aspirants to press the demand for cancellation of Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) exams held last month amid allegations of question paper leak. Kishor had staged a protest at Gandhi Maidan on December 30, which ended in lathi charge and use of water cannons by police, and sent one of his party colleagues as part of a delegation that spoke to Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena but failed to break the deadlock. With no end in sight to the impasse, the former election strategist launched the "Aamaran Anshan" (fast unto death) on January 2, demanding, besides cancellation of the December 13 exams, a "white paper" on all question paper leaks in the state in past one decade and a "domicile policy" so that two-thirds of government posts were reserved for people haiing from Bihar. An upbeat Kishor said, "Our stir will continue. I will disclose more about my strategy tomorrow. We are also exploring the option of moving the court seeking cancellation of the exam". His attention was also drawn to a snide remark of RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav that the entire episode looked like "a movie, with a complet star cast of actors, director and producer, complete with a vanity van", an allusion to the luxury vehicle which Kishor has been using for some time. The Jan Suraaj Party founder replied, "It is my suggestion to both Tejashwi Yadav and Rahul Gandhi that they pro-actively come out in support of the demands which are not about my party but the future of the states youth. They need to realise that politics is not all about posting on social media". top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Often accused of being the "B Team" of the states ruling NDA, Kishor claimed, "Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is physically and mentally tired and the government is being run by a handful of his trusted aides who happen to be retired bureaucrats". "Please make it a point to ask the district administration tomorrow, why were the officials concerned in a hurry to take me away from the court while the matter was being re-heard. Will any action be taken against such officials who seem to be in an overdrive? "There are some police personnel who heed their conscience. One of them lent me his jacket as I was shivering in the biting cold. But they seem to be under pressure from their higher above who keep getting orders from the CMs office", Kishor alleged. First Published: January 06, 2025, 22:30 IST Rs 33.66 Crore Spent On Delhi CM's Residence, 342% More Than Estimated Cost: CAG Flags Irregularities Reported By : & News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 12:20 IST 198 civil items and 40 electrical items amounting to Rs 18.88 crore, like modular kitchen of Rs 68.76 lakh, sheer curtains of Rs 95.9 lakh etc were executed as extra items, without any recordable reasons. PM Modi has criticised the AAP govt over this, saying the Sheeshmahal (CMs residence) was an epitome of corruption. The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report into the expenditure on the Delhi Chief Ministers residence has been accessed by CNN-News18 and it reveals that Rs 33.66 crore was spent on the project, which was 342 per cent more than the estimated cost of the project. Various irregularities at all stages of the project have been flagged in the CAG report, which is still to be tabled in the Delhi assembly and is hence not public yet. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has criticised the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government over this, saying the Sheeshmahal (CMs residence) was an epitome of corruption, and this issue is expected to now become a major election plank for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Delhi. This work was awarded at tendered cost of Rs 8.62 crore which was 13.21 per cent above the estimated cost of Rs 7.61 crore. The work was completed in April 2022 and final payment of Rs 33.66 crore was made to the contractor. This work awarded at 13.21 per cent above the estimated cost was finally completed at 342.31 per cent above the estimated cost and 290.49 per cent above the tendered amount," the CAG report says. related stories The BJP has alleged that the CAG Report that has the audit of PWD expenditure only till March 31, 2022, is just the tip of the iceberg. Far more was spent by Kejriwal on his Sheeshmahal, till at least the middle of 2023. Even in the CAG Report, its clearly mentioned that it was not provided with full information. The inventory made recently by PWD after Kejriwal vacated Sheeshmahal, in itself has materials and luxury goods worth crores. Besides, the gold plated toilet seats and wash basins have been removed by Kejriwal before he vacated the house. The total cost is as much as Rs 75-80 crores," BJP leader Amit Malviya said. The report says Rs 46 lakh extra was spent on installing marble stone on the walls of the CMs residence while Rs 47 lakh extra was spent on smart LED lights, and a host of luxury items like modular kitchens, large LED screen televisions, refrigerators, sauna, and jacuzzi were installed. CAG report details The report says that the Minister, PWD, Delhi government, on 17.03.2020 proposed for remodeling of existing accommodation at ground floor and construction of an additional storey at 6, Flag Staff Road the CMs residence. The PWD Superintending Engineer on 27.07.2020 recommended fresh construction within the premises after demolition of the existing structure. The proposal was approved same day by PWD Minister, Pr. Secretary PWD, Engineer in Chief and Principal Chief Engineer," the report says. The selection of the consultant was also marred with irregularity. The spot quotation from three consultants was collected and the consultancy work was awarded to a consultancy firm within one day of receiving quotations. The basis and justification of shortlisting/identification of only three consultants was not made available to the audit," the report says. CAG also says that there was a repeated revision of preliminary estimates for the project. There was lack of clarity regarding submission of Preliminary Estimates by the selected consultant which put the subsequent work on unreliable foundation, without justification for payment to the consultant. During execution, PWD increased the built up area from 1,397 sq.m to 1,905 sq.m (36 per cent), without any justification, highlighting poor planning of the work and increasing the overall cost. The applicable specifications of the work were altered in execution of items of superior specifications, artistic and antique items, ornamental works (both Civil and Electrical/Services). For covering the cost, PWD had to revise the PEs four times," the report says. The CAG also says that the planning stage was fraught with doubtful selection of consultants, frequent revision of estimates, inclusion of higher specification which were already covered earlier, increasing the scope of work without proper justification etc, which led to an increase of cost of work. The tendering process was also not done using the open tender process, depriving the government of competitive rates for the works amounting to Rs 25.80 crore, the CAG report says. The report also says that there was variation in the quantity executed vis-a-vis agreement quantity in respect to several civil and electrical items. Out of total agreement items, quantities amounting to Rs 4.3 crore, Rs 1.02 crore and Rs 1 crore were executed in excess, not executed and less executed than the estimated quantities respectively. 21 agreement items amounting to Rs 1.42 crore were substituted with material of superior specifications which resulted in extra expenditure. Further, out of the items of superior specifications, artistic and antique items, ornamental work, etc. included in the additional PEs, 198 Civil items and 40 electrical items amounting to Rs 18.88 crore, Rs 17.3 cr for items relating to modular kitchen of Rs 68.76 lakh, sheer curtains of Rs 95.9 lakh etc were executed as extra items beyond the limit of PAR, without any recordable reasons," the report has listed out. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The report also says that there was provision for construction of Staff Block area (705 sq m) and Camp Office area (510 sq m) inside the residential complex, and the work was awarded at tendered cost of Rs 16.54 crore. As per records made available to audit, there is no mention of Staff Block constructed whereas the work of Camp Office was stopped in the middle of construction," the report said. The report also says that PWD used incorrect rates of work i.e. non-residential building instead of residential building resulting in inflated estimates. First Published: January 06, 2025, 11:40 IST Ukraine plans complete reconstruction and technical re-equipment of the railway communication checkpoint Yahodyn on the border with Poland by 2030, as well as to modernize the railway section from the border to Kovel with the creation of a customs control point there. According to the Operational Plan of the Strategy for the Development of Border Infrastructure with EU Countries and the Republic of Moldova until 2030, posted on the website of the Cabinet of Ministers, it is planned to modernize the track with a width of 1,435 mm (European standard) and electrify the railway from Kovel to the state border of Poland. For the modernization of European tracks at the Yahodyn station within the checkpoint boundaries, UAH 16.6 million is allocated in 2025 and UAH 310,000 in 2026 out of the required UAH 31.75 million through the CEF project (covers 50% of the project's needs) and other types of international assistance. In 2024, some UAH 14.84 million was allocated for the project. Also, the modernization of the railway infrastructure between Lyuboml, Maciej (Poland) and Kovel is envisaged. In 2025, some UAH 1.15 billion is allocated for financing this project, in 2026 - UAH 869.2 million out of the required UAH 2.77 billion. In 2024, some UAH 256.9 million was allocated. Financing is also carried out through the CEF mechanism and other types of international technical assistance. It is planned to reconstruct the railway structures with electrification of the direction Kovel-Yahodyn-state border with the Republic of Poland. Financing of this project will begin in 2026 - it is expected to allocate UAH 1.54 billion out of the required UAH 12.37 billion. In 2027, some UAH 2.78 billion will be financed, in 2029 - UAH 2.78 billion, and in 2030 - UAH 2.47 billion through international technical assistance and the state budget. In 2026, it is planned to create a customs control point for passengers at the Kovel station, for which UAH 2 million will be allocated at the expense of international technical assistance and the state budget. It is also planned to equip a checkpoint across the state border for rail traffic, which involves the installation of a stationary scanning system for inspecting rolling stock on the Yahodyn-Dorohusk section, for which UAH 113.3 million out of the required UAH 331.2 million will be allocated in 2025 at the expense of the state budget. In 2024, some UAH 113.3 million was allocated for the project. The project will include the installation of dynamic wagon scales on tracks with a width of 1,520 mm and 1,435 mm (European standard). For this purpose, UAH 2.4 million will be allocated in 2025. Some UAH 600,000 was allocated in 2024. It was previously reported that the Border Infrastructure Development Strategy provides that priority will be given to border infrastructure included in the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) maps, which will provide access to EU financial instruments. Several Feared Trapped In Coal Mine In Assam's Dima Hasao, Rescue Operations On Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 08:23 IST Mayank Kumar Jha, the SP of Dima Hasao, told news agency ANI that the exact number of individuals involved is not yet known Representational image More than 15 miners are feared to be trapped inside a coal mine in the Umrangso area of Assams Dima Hasao district on Monday, following a sudden gush of water that flooded the site in the remote 3 Kilo" area. On Tuesday morning, the Indian Army launched a swift Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) mission to aid in rescue operations. related stories The incident took place at the Assam Coal Quarry, located in the 3 Kilo area of Umrangso. Quarry employees have reported that around 15 workers were inside the mine at the time, although authorities have yet to confirm the exact number. According to sources, the rat-hole" mine is 300 feet deep, with water rising up to 100 feet, complicating rescue efforts. Police and rescue teams have already been dispatched to the site. Shortly after the news broke, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared an update on the situation via his handle on X. In his post, the Assam CM expressed his concern and said, Distressing news from Umrangshu, where laborers are trapped in a coal mine. The exact number and status are yet unknown. The DC, SP, and my colleague, Shri Kaushik Rai, are rushing to the site. Praying to God for everyones safety." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Distressing news from Umrangshu, where laborers are trapped in a coal mine. The exact number and status are yet unknown. The DC, SP, and my colleague, Shri Kaushik Rai, are rushing to the site. Praying to God for everyones safety. Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) January 6, 2025 The coal mine is located near the Meghalaya border. Location : Assam, India First Published: January 06, 2025, 18:06 IST Supreme Court-Appointed Panel Meets Jagjit Dallewal, Urges Him To Take Medical Aid Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 18:40 IST The committee headed by former Punjab and Haryana High Court judge Justice Nawab Singh requested septuagenarian Dallewal to take medical aid. Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who is on an indefinite hunger strike (PTI) A Supreme Court-appointed high-powered committee Monday met with Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who is on an indefinite fast at the Khanauri border point between Punjab and Haryana. The committee headed by former Punjab and Haryana High Court judge Justice Nawab Singh requested septuagenarian Dallewal to take medical aid. related stories Dallewal, who is the convener of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political), has been on an indefinite hunger strike since November 26, 2024, over the farmers various demands, including a legal guarantee on the minimum support price for crops. #WATCH | Supreme Court-Appointed High-Powered Committee meets Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who is on an indefinite hunger strike at the Khanauri border. pic.twitter.com/4i7bnKgGkB ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025 During a hearing in the Supreme Court earlier in the day, the Punjab government, through senior advocate Kapil Sibal, informed the bench about the scheduled meeting. The apex court in September, 2024, formed the committee with the aim to amicably resolve the grievances of protesting farmers. The committee also comprises retired IPS officer B S Sandhu, agriculture expert Devinder Sharma, professor Ranjit Singh Ghuman and Dr Sukhpal Singh, agricultural economist from the Punjab Agricultural University. Addressing the media after meeting Dallewal, Justice (retd) Nawab Singh said, "We pray to Waheguru that he should be healthy." On being asked whether Dallewal agreed to avail medical aid, Nawab Singh said, "We all repeatedly requested him for medical (help). We want his health to be good." "I came here today not to say that the agitation should end," the former judge said, "but say your health should be good. I also told him that we are here whenever he says so." Singh said Dallewal told the panel for him, farming came first, his health later. Supreme Court judge Justice Surya Kant formed the committee with some confidence, Singh said. The ailing farmer leader till now has refused to take any medical aid despite his prolonged fasting, which has caused his health to deteriorate. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The committee reached the Khanauri protest site at around 3.30 pm and met Dallewal. The farmers under the banner of Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have been camping at Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13, 2024, after their march to Delhi was stopped by the security forces. Location : Delhi, India First Published: January 06, 2025, 18:40 IST Last Gift Of Biden Administration: US To Ease Curbs On Indian Firms' Access To Nuclear Tech Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Aveek Banerjee Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 18:01 IST US NSA Jake Sullivan said the India-US partnership was the most consequential of the 21st century, underscoring the need for a step-by-step process to build trust. Jake Sullivan, on his last visit to India as US NSA, met EAM Jaishankar earlier today. (S Jaishankar/X) Outgoing US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan once again shone the spotlight on the increasing bilateral cooperation between India and the United States, emphasising the need to work step-by-step to build trust and describing the ties between the two countries as the most consequential of the 21st century. In a major announcement, Sullivan announced that Indian companies would be removed from the list of entities that restricts them access to nuclear tech. Sullivan said it had been two decades since former PM Manmohan Singh signed the Civil Nuclear Deal with then-US President George Bush, but the two countries are yet to realise civil nuclear cooperation. related stories Hence, the US is finalising the necessary steps to avoid any obstructions, including the removal of Indian companies from the sanctions list. The paperwork for this step is still pending, Sullivan said at an event at IIT Delhi. A few companies who have been restricted access to nuclear tech by the US include: Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) Indira Gandhi Atomic Research Centre (IGCAR) Abhar Technologies and Services Private Limited RMZ Latitude Agrim Aviation Private Limited Analog Technology Limited With their removal from the entities list, these Indian companies can now work with American companies and gain access to nuclear tech for a multitude of purposes including defence. This is likely the last trip overseas that I will lead as NSA and I cannot think of a better way to end my tenure in the White House, than visiting India on my final overseas trip to mark the advances that we have made together over the past four years. This is a shared and historic achievement," he said, expressing hope that America and India will make big strides in technologies and space exploration. Sullivan On India-US Ties Lauding India-US ties, Sullivan also highlighted former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehrus visit to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the US to see innovations and businesses in America, which inspired the creation of IIT institutes. He said the US is deeply invested in Indias success. The outgoing NSA highlighted that the US welcomes more students from India than any other country and is also on course to launch Indian astronauts into space. He also highlighted the iCET initiative between India and the US. Over the last four years, weve (US and India) joined hands to help halt a pandemic, to bring vaccines to the world. Weve launched initiatives on jet engines, semiconductors and clean energy and in a few months time well come together to put an Indian astronaut in space. These are remarkable achievements and we made them by harnessing the remarkable innovation of the American and Indian people," he said. Sullivan also said the US is boosting cooperation with India in defence and space, by preparing defence systems here and providing support for future Indian missions to the Moon. He exemplified this by pointing that a quarter of iPhones would soon be made in India and Microns partnership with Indian companies for semiconductor manufacturing. We Launched IMEC, Got Disrupted By Oct 7 Attack: US NSA Sullivan also turned the focus towards the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, an initiative launched during the G20 Summit hosted by India in 2023 that aims to improve connectivity and economic integration between Asia, the Gulf and Europe. He said the IMEC was launched with the help of India and the United States, but was disrupted due to the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Sullivan said he spoke to the incoming Trump administration and apprised them of the significance of the IMEC initiative and to offer it as an alternative to Chinas Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Sullivan On Deep Relationship With Ajit Doval Sullivan lauded the efforts of his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval, whom he met today, saying it was in part his vision that technology and particularly advanced technologies of the future would be a propellant for the US-India relationship. The US NSA also said he shared a deep and personal relationship" with Doval over the past four years. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Through this initiative and through so many other things that Ajit and I have had to deal with over the course of the past four years, he and I have developed a deep personal and professional relationship that has played a critical role in ensuring that the US-India partnership has reached that new high level that I talked about before," he said. Sullivan also held talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, broadly reviewing the trajectory of India-US global strategic partnership in the last four years under the Biden administration. First Published: January 06, 2025, 16:30 IST Hrithik Roshan Flaunts Chiselled Physique Ahead of 51st Birthday Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 11:46 IST Hrithik Roshan stuns fans with his chiselled physique ahead of his 51st birthday, showcasing six-pack abs and biceps while emphasizing true strength over appearances. Hrithiks awe-inspiring physique is not just eye-catching but also serves as the ultimate New Year motivation for those aiming to prioritize fitness As his 51st birthday approaches on January 10, Hrithik Roshan left fans in awe with a striking photo showcasing his impeccably toned physique. Flexing his muscular biceps and flaunting six-pack abs, the actor proved once again why hes celebrated as a fitness icon. The image is a testament to his dedication and discipline, setting major fitness goals for the new year. Captioning the post, Hrithik shared a reflective thought: Such a big difference between being strong and looking strong. This year Im going for the real thing." His words emphasized that fitness is not just about appearances but about building genuine strengtha philosophy he clearly lives by. related stories View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hrithik Roshan (@hrithikroshan) top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Fans flooded the comments with admiration, dubbing him a Greek God" and praising his timeless, ageless aura. One user called him the Dream Physique of Everyone," while another remarked, Age kam hoti ja rahi hai " (hes ageing backwards). Others hailed him as an Inspiration for a generation," highlighting the impact of his dedication to health and fitness. Hrithiks awe-inspiring physique is not just eye-catching but also serves as the ultimate New Year motivation for those aiming to prioritize fitness. With every sculpted muscle, he embodies discipline and determination, reminding his fans that true fitness goes beyond the surfaceits about strength, resilience, and consistency. First Published: January 06, 2025, 11:44 IST Meghan Markle's Iconic Red-Hued Scarlet Dress Is A Statement Of Confidence Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 23:29 IST According to a psychotherapist, Meghan Markle seemingly wanted to assert her separate influence from Prince Harry's royal legacy with her remarkable dressing sense in a red dress. Meghan Markle attended the Children's Hospital Los Angeles Gala Meghan Markle attended the Childrens Hospital Los Angeles gala (CHLA), held in October 2024, in a scarlet red dress. Undoubtedly, she grabbed major attention with her glam game at the event. From head to toe, the former actress simply exuded royalty. Now, in an interview, psychotherapist Dr Robi Ludwig opened up about her fashion choice for gracing the event solo and revealed how her charm for the night was beyond explanation. In an interview with Fox News Digital, Dr Ludwig analysed Meghan Markles fashionable effort to redefine her public image, which was vibrantly evident in her appearance at the Childrens Hospital Los Angeles 2024 gala. Talking about her look in the red Carolina Herrera gown, the psychotherapist claimed, Meghan seems to be on a mission to make herself relevant and admired in her own right, aiming to become a symbol of American royaltyindependent, powerful, and aspirational." related stories Ludwig referred to Markles bold choice of red as a boss lady colour" and mentioned, Wearing red conveys the message, Im here, Im not hiding, and Im ready to assume my position of power." The member of the British family is seemingly signalling a return to her acting identity. Explaining which the psychotherapist noted, Its all part of Meghan reclaiming her narrative and re-establishing her autonomy. Her goal appears to be building a global brand, positioning herself as the most influential woman in the room." Undoubtedly, Markles fashion choices reflect her ambition to establish herself as an independent figure in the US, separate from her husband, Prince Harrys royal legacy. The choice of red at such an event even revealed the Duchess strong and confident personality, as observed by Ludwig. Decoding Meghan Markles look at the Childrens Hospital LA gala Meghan Markle looked resplendent in the red-hued Carolina Herrera dress featuring a plunging neckline and silk-faille gown. She teamed the slimmed-down version of the dress with Aquazzura So Nude 105 Sandals in the same shade. The member of the British Royal family also wore a Cartier Love bangle and a Lorraine Schwartz emerald-cut diamond pinky ring, proving her rich taste. Middle-parted open tresses and subtle makeup added stars to her overall charm. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Meghan Markle (@meghan.markle.official) However, this is not the first time when the Duchess wore the same red gown. In November 2021, when Markle graced the Salute to Freedom gala with Prince Harry, she wore the gown for the first time. Additionally, she sported the dress with a detachable overskirt and completed her look with glam makeup, a ponytail and pointed pump heels. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Embed from Getty Images What do you think about Meghan Markles fashion quotient in the red? First Published: January 06, 2025, 16:34 IST Virtuoso Luxe Report: This Country Named Best Family Travel Destination For 2025 Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 18:28 IST As per the 2025 Virtuoso Luxe Report, Italy has topped the list of the worlds best family travel destinations. Apart from Italy, Hawaii, Costa Rica, Greece and Japan also featured among the top 5 destinations for family vacations. Italy has long been a popular travel destination because of its magnificent mansions with architectural marvels, rich cultural legacy, delicious cuisines, and pristine landscapes. Its remarkable landmarks like the Colosseum and the Leaning Tower of Pisa attract lakhs of tourists from across the world throughout the year. Now, the popular European travel destination has achieved a new feat. As per the 2025 Virtuoso Luxe Report, Italy has topped the list of the worlds best family travel destinations. The Virtuoso Luxe Report polls 2,200 international travel advisors every year to find out the newest travel trends. Hawaii, Costa Rica, Greece, and Japan also featured among the top 5 best family travel destinations. related stories If you are planning a family trip to Italy, there are plenty of things to do in this European nation, which is usually known as a romantic vacation spot worldwide. For instance, families can experience Renaissance architecture and art in the middle of pastoral settings in Tuscany. With family-friendly activities like grape stomping, petting zoos, and treasure hunts, many of the areas more than 100 wineries keep children busy while their parents enjoy wine tastings. Furthermore, families can relax in the natural hot springs of Bagni San Filippo or Cascate di Mulino, trek the Elsa Trail to Diborrato Waterfall, or cycle across the undulating hills of Tuscany. There are also plenty of activities outside the wineries. For a more practical experience, enroll in cooking classes at Mama Florence or Podere II Casale in Siena, where you will learn how to cook traditional Italian foods together. In addition, families will certainly love Venice, another famous Italian vacation spot. Activities for parents with children of all ages include tours of the Doges Palace, gondola rides along the citys canals, and strolling through Buranos vibrant neighbourhoods. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all If you have older kids, you might choose to enroll in a glass-making class at a place like Ferro Toso. Children can attend free seminars at the Peggy Guggenheim Museum on Sundays, which cover subjects including French painter Jean Dubuffet and abstract expressionism. Dont forget to stop at Italys oldest coffee shop, Caffe Florian. Located at St. Marks Square in Venice, the cafe was founded in 1720. It offers a selection of strong coffees and kid-friendly hot chocolates. Location : Delhi, India First Published: January 06, 2025, 18:28 IST Game Changer: 2 Fans Die After Attending Ram Charan Film's Pre-Release Event; Dil Raju Offers Rs10-Lakh Aid Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 15:18 IST This comes almost a month after a woman lost her life at Pushpa 2's benefit screening. Ram Charan's Game Changer will be released this month. Two Ram Charan fans lost their lives on Saturday night after attending the pre-release event for Game Changer in Rajahmundry. Ram Charan and Pawan Kalyan, Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, were in attendance. Dil Raju, the producer of Game Changer, has offered the victims families support of Rs 10 lakh. The two fans have been identified as Arava Manikanta (23) and Thokada Charan (22) from Gaigolupadu in Kakinda. After attending the event on Saturday night, they were returning home on a bike when a van coming from the opposite direction hit them. Although both of them were rushed to the Peddapuram Hospital, they did not survive the fatal injuries. A case has been registered with the Rangampeta police. related stories Dil Raju, who is one of the producers of Game Changer, has offered his monetary support to their families. A post on the official X (formerly Twitter) account of his production house, Sri Venkateswara Creations, reads, Producer #DilRaju garu announced 10 lakhs and assured support to the families of the two individuals who tragically lost their lives in the accident following the #GameChanger event. Our deepest condolences to their loved ones in this difficult time." Additionally, Dil Raju expressed his condolences and said, I just got to know that after the event, while returning, two members tragically passed away. That is why Pawan Kalyan asked me if there was an alternative to this event, as he mentioned how deeply saddening it is when something unfortunate happens after such a big event." He added, But, Ram Charan and I insisted and asked for this event. I pray that their souls rest in peace, and we will stand by and support the two families. I am immediately sending Rs 5 lakhs each and assuring you that we will stand by them." Pawan Kalyan has also promised financial aid of Rs 5 lakh each to the victims families. This comes almost a month after a woman lost her life at Pushpa 2s benefit screening. Allu Arjun was taken into custody in Hyderabad after a fan died in a stampede caused due to his arrival at the films screening. While the actor is yet to be acquitted of the charges, he is currently out on interim bail. First Published: January 06, 2025, 15:18 IST Golden Globes 2025: Nikki Glaser Roasts Hollywood A-Listers At 'Ozempic's Biggest Night' Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 10:40 IST Stand-up comedian Nikki Glaser took the stage as host for the 82nd annual Golden Globe Awards on Sunday night. She delivered a blistering opening monologue. (photo Credits: Instagram) The 82nd annual Golden Globe Awards took place on Sunday night with host Nikki Glaser taking over the stage. Glaser offered the much-required fun with her masterful 10-minute monologue that was largely pointed, playful and witty, keeping the crowd on the good side. Throughout her introduction, the stand-up comedian delivered a blistering opening monologue, poking fun at several Hollywood A-listers at the award show which she described as Ozempics biggest night." Nikki Glaser, known for her dark sense of humour opened the 82nd annual award shows in Los Angeles with her witty comments on voting, Hollywood sex scandals, Timothee Chalamets special hair and even Sean Diddy Combs. related stories Say hello to your roast for the nightOops, we mean HOST for the night @NikkiGlaser! #GoldenGlobes pic.twitter.com/MVa5FQ1NoS Golden Globes (@goldenglobes) January 6, 2025 The comedians playful casting couch humour about Hollywood did not go unnoticed as she quipped, I have finally made it. I am in a room full of producers at the Beverly Hilton Hotel and this time, all of my clothes are on so it was worth it." Im not here to roast you tonight. How could I? Youre all so powerful. You could really do anything, except tell the country who to vote for, its ok youll do it next time if there is one," she began, only to single out several popular faces including Ariana Grande and Zendaya. I woke up for all of your scenes in Dune Part Two. Challengers, girl oh my God that was so good, that movie was more sexually charged than Diddys credit card. I know Im upset too, the afterparty isnt going to be as good this year but we have to move on. A Stanley Tucci freak-off just doesnt have the same ring to it. No baby oil this year just lots of olive oil," she continued. Nikki Glaser went on to compliment Tilda Swinton stating that she loved her role as Timothee Chalamet, before roasting A Complete Unknown star on his moustache. You were great as Timothee Chalamet too this year can I just say you have the most beautiful eyelashes on your upper lip," she commented. Selena Gomez, Benny Blanco, Nikki Glaser. The whole thing made me wanna throw up. pic.twitter.com/x9fDmXk5F6 opinionated russian???? (@Katsbigopinion2) January 6, 2025 In her monologue, Glaser even pointed out Selena Gomez who attended the show with her fiance Benny Blanco, and joked, Benny Blanco is here because of the genie who granted him that wish." Last but not least she concluded her monologue on a witty note asking the audience to understand the point of winning, which she believes is to start a tequila brand so popular that they never have to make art again." First Published: January 06, 2025, 10:40 IST Hrithik Roshan Flaunts His Chiselled Abs In Shirtless Photo, Fans Call Him 'Greek God' | See Here Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 10:41 IST Hrithik Roshan will soon be seen in The Roshans and War 2. Hrithik Roshan's latest gym photo. Hrithik Roshan earned the title of Greek God in Bollywood due to his chiselled physique and stellar good looks. The actor often takes to Instagram to flaunt his abs and the hard work that went in to achieve his desired physique. His recent bare-bodied post is no exception! Hrithik Roshan took to Instagram to share a shirtless photo captioned, Such a big difference between being strong and looking strong. This year Im going for the real thing." Hrithik flaunted his abs as he flexed in the gym. He wore grey sweatpants and a cap as he posed. related stories View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hrithik Roshan (@hrithikroshan) The actors fans couldnt stop gushing over him. One person wrote, Transformation King." Another called him, G.O.A.T of Bollywood ." Several Instagram users called Hrithik a Greek God". One person wrote, Bestest mam bestest inspiration ." Another commented, You are my inspiration sir ji. ." Meanwhile, Hrithik Roshan will soon appear in a documentary about his family. The highly anticipated docu-series The Roshans, featuring Hrithik Roshan, Rakesh Roshan, and Rajesh Roshan, is set to release on Netflix soon. The documentary has garnered quite a lot of buzz ever since it was announced in December 2024. This documentary series The Roshans chronicles the trials and triumphs of Bollywoods iconic Roshan family- musician Roshan Lal Nagrath, Rajesh, Rakesh and Hrithik Roshan. The audiences will experience the rich tapestry of their multi-generational legacy through song and stories. For the first time, the Roshans offer an intimate journey through their lives, exploring three generations contributions to Hindi cinema. The Roshans is set to release on Netflix on January 17, 2025. Hrithik Roshan is also keeping busy with the highly anticipated War 2, a key addition to YRFs Spy Universe. Another eagerly awaited project on his slate is Krrish 4, the next chapter in the beloved superhero franchise. Reports now suggest that Hrithik is set to begin shooting for Krrish 4 in the summer of 2025, once he wraps up War 2. According to a report in Midday, the makers of War 2 are aiming to complete filming by April 2025. First Published: January 06, 2025, 10:41 IST Kareena Kapoor Khan Gives A Peek Into Joyous New Year Celebration With Hubby Saif Ali Khan | PICS Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 19:12 IST Kareena Kapoor Khan rang in New Year 2025 in Switzerland with her hubby Saif Ali Khan and their sons Taimur Ali Khan and Jeh Ali Khan. Check out pictures from their celebration! Inside Kareena Kapoor Khan's New Year 2025 celebration with Saif Ali Khan. Kareena Kapoor Khan had a blast celebrating New Year 2025 with her hubby Saif Ali Khan and their kids Taimur Ali Khan and Jeh Ali Khan. The actress has shared a series of pictures on Instagram, giving us a sneak-peek into their New Year celebration in Switzerland. Two days ago, Bebo posted Taimurs pictures, promising fans that she would drop more pictures from the New Year bash. Now, much to fans delight, the pictures are finally here! On Monday, Kareena Kapoor Khan took to her Instagram account to share glimpses from her New Year celebration. The actress and her hubby Saif Ali Khan were dressed to the nines as they welcomed 2025 together with great gusto. The pictures show Kareena looking gorgeous in a shimmery sleeveless pleated dress. She accessorized with a black clutch with golden fringes, a pair of red pumps, a minimal necklace and matching earrings. Meanwhile, Saif Ali Khan looked dapper as usual in a black tuxedo. The first picture shows them posing together near the entrance of a grand venue, while their son Jeh photobombs them! He looks adorable in a black formal suit paired with black-and-white sneakers. related stories View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kareena Kapoor Khan (@kareenakapoorkhan) A few other pictures show Saif and Kareena posing against a snowy background. Bebos solo pictures show her holding a hand fan, looking incredibly joyous. Expressing her desire to continue with the same joyous vibe this year as well, Kareena wrote in her caption, Headed home with this mood for 2025," she wrote, along with a rainbow emoji. Commenting on Kareena Kapoor Khans post, Rhea Kaporo wrote, Tims shoes on point." Meanwhile, looks like Lisa Haydon also joined the celebrations, as she commented, take us back," on Bebos post. Kareena replied to Lisas comment and wrote, @lisahaydon till we meet in summer," along with a heart emoji. A few days ago, Kareena shared a few pictures of her son Taimur Ali Khan carrying her heels post New Year celebration, so that she could walk comfortably. Sharing the lovely pictures of Taimur, the actress expressed her pride MAA ki seva iss saal and forever. Happy new year friends. More Pictures coming soon. stay tuned." On the professional front, Kareena Kapoor Khan has an exciting year ahead. She was last seen in Rohit Shettys cop actioner Singham Again, alongside Ajay Devgn. She is reportedly working with Raazi director Meghna Gulzar for her upcoming film, tentatively titled Daayra. First Published: January 06, 2025, 19:12 IST The Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine initiated the dismissal of Ruslana Velychko-Tryfoniuk from the post of Deputy Minister of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine for European Integration. "We officially inform you. On January 6, information was made public on social networks and the media regarding unethical behavior regarding a civil servant in the Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine. The ministry categorically condemns behavior that humiliates the honor and dignity of a war veteran or any person, regardless of age, gender, nationality, social status, etc., and no circumstances can be an excuse. Each employer, regardless of the form of ownership, must create appropriate conditions for the reintegration of a veteran in the workplace," the ministry said in a statement on Facebook. It is noted that the leadership of the Ministry of Veterans has ordered an internal investigation to identify the facts and circumstances specified in the published information. "We would like to inform you separately that documents have been sent to the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine to dismiss Ruslana Velychko-Tryfoniuk from the post of Deputy Minister for Veterans Affairs of Ukraine for European Integration," the department said. Earlier, veteran and former employee of the Ministry of Veterans Yevhen Shybalov spoke on his Facebook page about the derogatory attitude towards him in the ministry. "Why did I resign from the Ministry of Veterans? It is simple. There were big difficulties with compliance with clause 1 of Part 1 of Article 7 of the Law of Ukraine On civil service. This is the article stating 'every civil servant has the right to respect for his dignity," he wrote, and cited a number of offensive statements that were made against him. Shybalov himself did not name the official, but social networks suggested that he was talking about Deputy Minister of Veterans Velychko-Tryfoniuk. Mohanlal Opens Up On 'Dark Clouds' Over AMMA 4 Months After Resignation: 'Will Reach The Light Soon' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 10:34 IST Mohanlal had resigned as AMMA President following the massive revelations by the Justice Hema Committee report last year. Mohanlal attends AMMA's Kudumba Sangamam (family gathering). (Photo: Instagram) The office bearers of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) organized a Kudumba Sangamam (family gathering) event in Kochi recently. Among others, the ceremony was also attended by its former president Mohanlal. The superstar had resigned from his post following the massive revelations by the Justice Hema Committee report last year. During his address at the event, Mohanlal talked about AMMAs recent struggles and admitted that dark clouds have been hovering over the organization for the last few months. He expressed hope for things to get better and said, We will reach the light soon." related stories Mohanlal also emphasised on the work that AMMA does and added, We do much more than people realise and we have the potential to do things no other organisation can not just for our members, but for the public as well." For the unversed, Mohanlal resigned as the president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists in 2024. He and his 17-member executive committee submitted a joint resignation after the findings of the Justice Hema Committee Report were made public and when a series of actresses accused actors, directors and producers in the Malayalam film industry of sexual misconduct. Besides Mohanlal, the event was also attended by the Malayalam superstar Mammootty and Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi. During his address, Gopi slammed those criticising AMMA. Even though he did not mention sexual harassment allegations or the Justice Hema Committee report, the minister mentioned that restoring governance is crucial for the associations future. He also urged everyone to refer to the organization as AMMA (meaning mother in Malayalam) and not A.M.M.A. It was the late actor Murali who gave the name AMMA to the association, and thats how it should be pronounced. We will not obey what outside bosses say. This A dot M dot M dot A dot They can keep that at their own houses. It is AMMA for us," he said. Location : Kochi [Cochin], India First Published: January 06, 2025, 10:34 IST Ram Charan Says He Is Feeling Very Alone, Reacts To Game Changer Being His First Solo Release In 4 Years Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 04, 2025, 14:17 IST Ahead of the release of Ram Charan-Kiara Advani starrer Game Changer, a press meet was held in Mumbai. The actress gave it a miss as she has been advised to rest after non-stop work schedule. Ram Charan Reacts To 4-Year-Gap Since His Last Solo Release Ram Charan and Kiara Advani starrer Game Changer is all set to hit the theatres in a few days. Ahead of its grand release, the team hosted back-to-back pre-release events across the country. A press meet was held in Mumbai today, and it was attended by Ram Charan, SJ Suryah, Dil Raju and Anil Thadani. Kiara Advani gave the event in Mumbai a miss as she has been advised to rest after non-stop work schedule. During the event, Ram Charan said that he is feeling very lonely, but also added that he is feeling very welcome in Mumbai, thanks to the people present at the event. He also addressed the 4-year gap since his last solo release. During the event, Ram Charan said, For the first time, Im feeling very alone right now, but also, Im feeling so much welcome. Thanks to all of you here." When asked what took four years for his solo film, he said So maalum nahi yaar, mereko bhi jaldi se jaldi karna hai movies. Maalum nahi itna der kyu hota hai (I dont really know. I also want to do movies as soon as possible. I dont know why it takes so long)." Check out the video below! related stories View this post on Instagram A post shared by MASSIVE RC YOUTH (@alwaysyouthoframcharan) Ram Charan On Working With Game Changer Director Shankar At the press meet, Ram Charan also said that he got a call from director Shankar for Game Changer when he was working on last 2 schedules of RRR. He said it was a dream come true for him. He said that he has watched the directors films growing up, and that he is the epitome of commercial and larger-than-life films. He has defined what is pan-India cinema. He is the first pan India director we have. Hats off to him and I am so blessed," said Ram Charan. He further added that he feels very fortunate and blessed that he got to work with directors such as SS Rajamouli and Shankar. About Game Changer While Ram Charan plays the lead in Game Changer, Kiara Advani stars as his love interest. The ensemble cast includes prominent names such as SJ Suryah, Anjali, Samuthirakani, Jayaram, Sunil, and Srikanth in pivotal roles. The film is based on a story by acclaimed director Karthik Subbaraj, with music composed by Thaman. Helmed by Shankar, Game Changer is slated for a grand release on January 10, 2025. First Published: January 04, 2025, 14:17 IST Opinion | 2025: The Year NDAs Unity Will Be Tested Written By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 18:48 IST The BJP-led NDAs ability to remain cohesive will depend on how the saffron party addresses the concerns of its allies in both the Delhi elections and the Bihar elections later this year PM Narendra Modi with key allies TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu, JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar and Shiv Sena (Shinde) chief Eknath Shinde. (PTI Photo) The year 2025 is set to be a defining one for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), the oldest existing national alliance in the country, formed in May 1998. After a period of political irrelevance in national politics following the rise of the Narendra Modi-led BJP to power at the Centre in 2014, the alliance made a significant return to national politics last year, marking its relevance again after the saffron party lost its individual majority in the Lok Sabha. Although the BJP revived the NDAs relevance in 2023, it was last years Lok Sabha results that truly proved to be the defining moment for the alliance since the 1999 Lok Sabha elections. Since the beginning of its third term with Modi as Prime Minister, the saffron party has relied on its allies, such as the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Janata Dal (United) or JD(U), Shiv Sena, and the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) or LJP (RV). related stories Despite initial assumptions, particularly from the OppositionIndian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA)the NDA has faced no major trouble in the last six months. In fact, the alliance registered a resounding victory in Maharashtra last November, surprising the overconfident Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition, a part of the INDIA bloc. Lack Of Coordination A Problem Although the NDA government at the Centre has been running smoothly thus far, there have been differing views within the NDA. Take, for example, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, which the Centre sought to pass during the last Monsoon session of Parliament. However, the government sent the legislation to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) after discovering that allies like TDP, JD(U), and LJP (RV) were in favour of this approach. The issue of lateral entry into the bureaucracy, however, highlighted the lack of coordination within the NDA. The government had to back down under pressure from allies such as JD(U) and LJP (RV), who opposed the proposed move. Had the allies views been considered earlier, the Modi government would not have had to face such an embarrassment. These developments demonstrate that maintaining coordination among allies remains a challenge, as there is no coordination committee within the NDA, unlike the Opposition INDIA bloc, which has a 14-member coordination committee. BJPs Attempt To Signal The Importance Of NDA Understanding the need to bring allies on board, the BJP called an NDA meeting on December 25, 2024, on the occasion of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayees birth anniversary. The former BJP stalwart played a pivotal role in founding the NDA and later successfully led an NDA government for a full termthis was the first non-Congress coalition government to serve a full term. The meeting was attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who is also the chairman of the NDA, alongside other notable attendees, including TDP supremo and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, JD(U) leader and Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh), Union Minister and Apna Dal (Sonelal) president Anupriya Patel, JD(S) leader and Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy, and Union Minister and Hindustan Awami Morcha (Secular) leader Jitan Ram Manjhi. The decision to hold the meeting of the alliance on Vajpayees birthday at the house of the partys national president, JP Nadda, was significant. This meeting took place against the backdrop of allegations by the INDIA bloc of insulting the Constitution and BR Ambedkar. The main agenda of the meeting was to ensure the NDA speaks with one voice to effectively counter the INDIA bloc. This meeting also took place against a backdrop of unease among some of the BJPs allies. Discontent arose within parties like Shiv Sena and JD(U) due to the BJPs assumption of the chief ministership in Maharashtra last November, a position previously held by Shiv Senas Eknath Shinde. The repercussions, as anticipated, extended beyond Maharashtra to Bihar, where the NDA governs with JD(U)s Nitish Kumar as chief minister. Its worth noting that JD(U), despite holding fewer seats than the BJP, also occupies the chief ministers post, mirroring the situation with Shiv Sena in Maharashtras previous NDA government from 2022 to 2024. In such a scenario, by holding the meeting, the message the saffron party wanted to convey was that it seeks to bring all allies together in order to make the NDA a cohesive unit. It aimed to assert that the allies are an integral part of its extended family. Another important aspect is that this NDA meeting took place at a time when the Congress party itself was facing criticism from INDIA bloc constituents following the electoral loss in Maharashtra. Through this meeting, the saffron party also sought to send a positive message beyond the NDA, particularly to the disgruntled allies of the Congress. Delhi And Bihar Elections To Test NDAs Ability To Function As A Cohesive Unit While the NDA meeting at the end of 2024 was significant, the first crucial test for the NDA will be the Delhi state elections, expected to be held in February this year. Allies like JD(U), LJP (RV), and Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) of Jayant Singh are hoping to secure some seats from the BJP. In the last state elections, JD(U) was allocated two seats by the BJP, while the undivided LJP was given a single seat. However, neither party won any seats. Around 30-35 seats are dominated by Purvanchali voters. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all While the BJP announced its first list of 29 candidates, the saffron party has yet to officially announce its alliance with its allies JD(U), LJP (RV), and RLD. How the BJP handles its allies in the Delhi elections is likely to influence the crucial Bihar state elections, expected to be held by November this year. Although the BJP received some relief in the new year with a clear assurance from Nitish Kumar that his JD(U) will remain in the NDA, the alliances ability to remain cohesive will depend on how the saffron party addresses the concerns of its allies in both the Delhi elections and the Bihar elections later this year. This will also determine the future stability of the NDA government at the Centre. Sagarneel Sinha is a political commentator and tweets @SagarneelSinha. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. First Published: January 06, 2025, 18:48 IST Opinion | Canadas Crisis: An Opportunity For Indias Workforce Written By : News18.com Last Updated: January 05, 2025, 10:00 IST As Canada grapples with various socio-economic challenges, the situation has created a ripple effect with unforeseen opportunities for India With over 65 per cent of its population under 35, India boasts one of the worlds youngest and most vibrant workforces. (Representative image/File) For years, Canada has been a top destination for Indians, especially Punjabis, seeking quality education and better employment opportunities. However, as Canada grapples with various socio-economic challenges, the situation has created a ripple effect with unforeseen opportunities for India. While the crisis in Canada poses significant concerns, it also presents a moment of introspection and action for Indias young workforce. India stands at a unique vantage point, with its burgeoning youth population and a growing demand for skilled workers across key sectors like IT, hospitality, transportation, beauty and wellness, and retail. The current global workforce shortages highlight Indias potential to bridge these gaps while empowering its workforce to meet domestic and international demands. related stories With over 65 per cent of its population under 35, India boasts one of the worlds youngest and most vibrant workforces. This demographic advantage positions the country as a potential global talent hub. However, the critical challenge lies in transforming this potential into a skilled, job-ready workforce. While Indias youth are ambitious and eager, many lack access to industry-relevant skills and training. Bridging this skills gap is crucial for ensuring employability and driving economic growth. Canadas challenges serve as a wake-up call for India to accelerate its focus on skill development, especially in sectors that align with global demand. Global Demand Beyond Canada While Canadas crisis has brought the attention to workforce, opportunities extend far beyond North America. Countries in Europe, as well as South Asian nations like Taiwan and Vietnam, are also facing workforce gaps and require skilled, hardworking individuals. With its demographic advantage and growing focus on skill development, India is well-positioned to fill these gaps. By aligning training programmes with the specific needs of these markets, India can cement its reputation as a global supplier of talent. Bridging The Skills Gap With Policy Support India has already made strides in skill development through initiatives like Skill India, Digital India, and the National Skill Development Mission. However, these efforts must be scaled and aligned with global standards to capitalise on emerging opportunities, and the private sector truly should be able to design certification programmes that meet international benchmarks. Hands-on training, internships, and industry-specific curricula ensure that Indian workers are both employable and competitive globally. Equitable access to skill development programmes is critical. Government subsidies, partnerships with educational institutions, and digital learning platforms can make high-quality training accessible even in rural areas. Technology can be a game-changer in Indias skill development journey. Online learning platforms, virtual reality simulations, and AI-driven personalised training modules can revolutionise how skills are imparted. These tools make training accessible to even the countrys remotest corners, enabling millions to participate in the economic mainstream. Skill development should focus on employment and fostering entrepreneurship. For instance, a trained beauty and wellness professional could start a salon, or a logistics expert could launch a delivery service. With mentorship and financial support, such ventures can create jobs and spur regional economic growth. Key Sectors With Growing Opportunities Information Technology (IT): Indias IT sector is already a global leader, but the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing and cyber security require a highly skilled workforce. As digital transformation reshapes industries worldwide, there is a pressing need for talent proficient in emerging technologies. Training programmes should focus on data analytics, AI applications, and cyber security protocols to meet global standards. Hospitality and Tourism: With increasing international and domestic travel, the hospitality and tourism sectors demand professionals with strong soft skills, cultural competence, and customer service excellence. Vocational training in these areas, coupled with language enhancement programmes, can help Indian youth secure lucrative positions both at home and abroad. Transportation and Logistics: The transportation industry is a vital economic pillar, requiring skilled personnel for logistics management, safety protocols, and infrastructure operations. By offering targeted training in these areas, India can create a workforce ready to address the growing demand in this sector. Beauty and Wellness: Often overlooked, the beauty and wellness industry has witnessed exponential growth globally. This sector offers immense opportunities, from cosmetology to spa therapies and holistic wellness. By blending traditional Indian practices with modern techniques, India can produce skilled professionals catering to diverse cultural needs worldwide. Retail: The rise of e-commerce and the evolution of traditional retail have created a demand for skilled workers in inventory management, customer relations, and digital marketing. Training programmes in these areas can help Indias youth tap into this dynamic sector. A Collaborative Effort Capitalising on these opportunities requires a coordinated effort between the government, private sector, and educational institutions. Policies should focus on creating industry partnerships, providing financial incentives for skill development, and ensuring that training programmes are aligned with market demands. At the same time, private enterprises must invest in upskilling initiatives and collaborate with training institutes to design job-ready curricula. International partnerships can also be vital in providing Indian workers with exposure to global best practices. Seizing The Moment Indias youth stand at the cusp of a transformative moment. By equipping them with the right skills, the nation can address unemployment, meet global workforce demands, and drive economic growth. The current challenges faced by countries like Canada remind us of the interconnectedness of global economies and the opportunities that lie within crises. This is an opportunity for India to fill workforce shortages in other nations and elevate its standing as a global talent powerhouse. Today, India can ensure a brighter, more prosperous tomorrow, for its young generation and the nation by focusing on skill development. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all As the world navigates economic uncertainties, it is not the crises that define us but how we respond to them. This is a moment for India to turn challenges into opportunities and empower its youth to shine within the country and on the global stage. The writer is co-founder and MD of Orane International, a training partner of the National Skill Development Corporation and a network Member of India International Skills Centres, an initiative of GoI. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. First Published: January 05, 2025, 10:00 IST 'Even Prostitute Is Better...': Shinde Sena Leader Says Voters Selling Votes For 'Money, Mutton, Alcohol' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 20:00 IST The MLA's comments have reignited debates about the disconnect between politicians' pre-election promises and their post-election behaviour, leaving many baffled. Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikawad (IANS) Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) MLA Sanjay Gaikwad stirred a controversy after he openly accused them of hawking votes for mutton, alcohol, and cash". The legislator was addressing a public gathering in Buldana where he openly abused voters. Gaikawad further vented frustration over voters alleged behaviour during the elections, and went on to make an absurd comparison stating that even prostitutes are better than them (voters)." related stories Maharashtra: While addressing a public gathering in Buldhana, MLA Sanjay Gaikwad says, The voters here were sold for 2-5 thousand rupees, alcohol, and meat. Even a prostitute is better than that" pic.twitter.com/xyexdhQnbY IANS (@ians_india) January 6, 2025 The video of his statement has since gone viral, drawing sharp criticism from all quarters. Defending his track record, Gaikwad said, If I had lost the election, would the projects have been completed? I challenge you; not a single stone would have been laid. Today, Ive done work worth &24 crores for Jaipur village alone. The development statistics I am citing will leave you stunned." The MLAs comments have reignited debates about the disconnect between politicians pre-election promises and their post-election behaviour, leaving many baffled. Opposition Condemns Remark Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar called out Gaikwad for his remarks on Maharashtra voters. He said, I feel very bad hearing such a statement. We go and beg for votes from people and once elected, we use such names for those voters. In a democracy, people are the bosses and we are just servants and that too for 5 yearspeople voted for you so that you can serve them so dont insult those voters and use such words, this is my appeal" #WATCH | Mumbai, Maharashtra: On Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwads purported statement, Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar says, " I feel very bad hearing such a statement. We go and beg for votes from people and once elected, we use such names for those voters. In a democracy, people pic.twitter.com/EWaFbSUGyM ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025 Earlier Controversies Gaikwad is not new to controversies last year Gaikwad sparked controversy over his statement on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. The Sena MLA had announced reward of {11 lakh to anyone who will chop off the tongue" of Rahul Gandhi over his statements on reservation in the US. You Dont Own Me: Ajit Pawar Tells Voters Earlier in the day, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar told the people of Baramati that they were not his boss just because they had voted for him. Pawar had gone to the city to understand the grievances being faced by the people there. Just because you voted for me, it doesnt mean you have become my boss or owner. Have you made me a farm labourer now?" Pawar asked the crowd. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The BJP-led Mahayuti, which includes Eknath Shindes Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawars NCP, secured 230 out of 288 assembly seats in the Maharashtra Assembly elections, retaining power in the state. (With inputs from agencies) Location : Buldana, India First Published: January 06, 2025, 20:00 IST Prashant Kishor, On Indefinite Hunger Strike Over BPSC Exam Cancellation Demand, Arrested Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 14:17 IST Prashant Kishor has been protesting at Gandhi Maidan in Patna, seeking cancellation of BPSC exam held in the state last year. He was arrested on Monday morning. Prashant Kishor detained in Patna (ANI Image) Jan Suraaj Party chief Prashant Kishor, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike at Patnas Gandhi Maidan, was arrested after initial detention by the Bihar Police in the early hours of Monday. According to officials, he was taken to AIIMS in an ambulance, however, he has refused treatment and will continue his fast. The police have moved him out of Patna towards the Naubatpur area and are reportedly taking him to an undisclosed location. His vanity van was also seized. related stories , 5 4 pic.twitter.com/Ps1maDBkig Jan Suraaj (@jansuraajonline) January 5, 2025 After he refused a medical checkup at AIIMS, preparations were made for his examination in Fatuha. Prashant Kishor got ready for a medical checkup in Fatuha. He asked for hot water from the police," officials said. He was then taken to Civil Court, Patna. Prashant Kishor Arrested A team of police officials reached the site of the protest early in the morning and were seen attempting to remove him from the spot. Kishor was held by the police personnel who evacuated the protest site. #WATCH | BPSC protest | Bihar: Patna Police detains Jan Suraaj chief Prashant Kishor who was sitting on an indefinite hunger strike at Gandhi Maidan pic.twitter.com/cOnoM7EGW1 ANI (@ANI) January 5, 2025 Kishor began his hunger strike on January 2 this year, backing the protesting students to press the demand for the cancellation of the BPSC exam due to alleged paper leak and irregularities. The exam was held on December 13 last year. I am with the students with all my might and Ill be sitting on fast-unto death till the issue is resolved," he had said earlier. He had also vowed to file a petition in the Patna High Court on January 7 over the BPSC examination alleged paper leak. Prashant Kishor Granted Bail With Conditions Kishors lawyer Shivanand Giri said that the court granted him bail with condition that he would not commit such an offence again", to which the JSP chief refused, calling the bail condition unacceptable. The court has granted bail but there is a condition that he has to submit a bond of Rs. 25,000 and write that he will not commit such an offence again. Writing this would mean that he has committed an offence but protesting is our fundamental right We said that this order is not acceptable to us," Giri said. We requested the court to remove the condition. The court refused. Prashant Kishor has said that he will not submit the bond. In this situation, he may have to go to jail," he added. Prashant Kishor Seeks Support Of Rahul Gandhi, Tejashwi Yadav On the fourth day of his fast on Sunday, the Jan Suraaj Party founder sought the support of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav over his demand for the cancellation of the exam. I want to inform the people that this agitation is non-political one and not being carried under the banner of my party. All are welcome to lend support be it Rahul Gandhi, who has 100 MPs, and Tejashwi Yadav who has more than 70 MLAs", Kishor had said. Calling them leader much bigger than us", he said that they can get lakhs of people to gather at the protest site at Gandhi Maidan. This is the time to do so. The future of the youth is at stake. We are faced with a brutal regime which has ordered lathi charge 87 times in just three years," he said. BPSC Exam Controversy top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The exam faced allegations of a question paper leak, prompting the BPSC to order a retest for a select group of candidates who had appeared in the original exam. The retest was conducted on Saturday across 22 centres in Patna. Of the 12,012 eligible candidates, approximately 8,111 downloaded their admit cards, but only 5,943 appeared for the retest. The BPSC said that the examination was conducted peacefully at all centres, with no reports of misconduct or malpractice. First Published: January 06, 2025, 07:14 IST Tamil Nadu Governor Skips Address, Walks Out Of Assembly Citing Insult To National Anthem Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 12:01 IST Raj Bhawan said that upon the arrival of the Governor in the Assembly, only 'Tamil Tai Vazhdu' was played and not the National Anthem. Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi (Photo: PTI) High drama unfolded in the Tamil Nadu Assembly on Monday as Governor RN Ravi refused to deliver his customary address during the first session of the state legislative assembly, citing disrespect to the National Anthem. Upon the Governors arrival in the Assembly, only Tamil Tai Vazhdu," the state anthem, was sung instead of the National Anthem, which is traditionally played during such occasions, as per a statement by the Raj Bhawan. related stories What Did Raj Bhawan Say? The Constitution of Bharat and the National Anthem were once again insulted in the Tamil Nadu Assembly today. Respecting the National Anthem is among the first Fundamental Duty as enshrined in our Constitution. It is sung in all the state legislatures at the beginning and the end of Governors address. Today on arrival of Governor to the House only Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu was sung," a statement from Raj Bhavan said. " Governor respectfully reminded the House of its Constitutional Duty and fervently appealed to the Honble Chief Minister who is the Leader of the House and the Honble Speaker for singing the National Anthem. However, they cussedly refused. It is a matter of grave concern. Not to be a party to such brazen disrespect to the Constitution and the National Anthem, Governor in deep anguish left the House," the statement added. Congress, DMK Protest The Congress and DMK staged a protest over the developments even as the Assembly speaker continued to read out the translated version of the Governors address. Governor is against the Tamil Nadu people, against the police. He doesnt accept any resolution from the assembly The only thing I can say is that the vice-chancellor of Anna University has not been appointed and hence we are protesting," Tamil Nadu Congress president K Selvaperunthagai said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Shortly after the Governor left the House, AIADMK began its protest against the alleged sexual assault of a student on the Anna University campus. The Speaker asked the marshalls to take the protesting MLAs out of the House. BJP and PMK also staged a walkout over the Anna University issue. First Published: January 06, 2025, 11:40 IST Chef Vikas Khanna Credits Late Sister For New York Restaurant Bungalow: 'She Taught Me' Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 09:31 IST Chef Vikas Khanna revealed that his sister asked him to promise that he would meet and greet everyone at his restaurant, Bungalow. Chef Vikas Khanna lost his sister in 2022. (Photo Credits: Instagram) In early December, Chef Vikas Khanna added another feather to his hat by securing the Michelin 2024 Bib Gourmand Award for his New York restaurant, Bungalow. Recently, he credited the success of his restaurant to his late sister, Radhika Khanna, and discussed how his sister helped him envision and create the popular restaurant. During an interview with CNN, the Michelin star chef opened up about how his sister inspired his dreams. Vikas highlighted how she would always celebrate all his successes and achievements by calling him Mera sher (my lion)". He revealed that most of the artefacts of his restaurant were commissioned by Radhika from her deathbed. Chef Vikas lost his sister Radhika three years ago. The fashion designer, author and entrepreneur battled against lupus for many years. related stories I was unsure if Bungalow should be a successful restaurant or a big one. She wanted it to be a deeper restaurant," said the renowned Indian chef. When the interviewer labelled the restaurant as his baby," Vikas quickly rectified it, saying that Bungalow is his daughter." He explained, I have a very clear definition of the gender of this restaurant. This restaurant was born as a female, it will live as a female," adding that the shakti" of the establishment was feminine. Sharing that his sisters death felt like losing an only friend" and a soulmate," the MasterChef India host recalled an anecdote when his sister took him to a restaurant for his birthday in 2003. After having a meal at the luxurious place, his sister was hoping that the chef would come out and meet them. However, the manager of the establishment informed that the chef would meet only those who would order the tasting menu." After they left the place, Vikas was trying to cheer up his sister saying that it was his best birthday ever, but she said, I failed." On her deathbed, she asked her brother to promise him to never be like that chef. We had great food in that restaurant, but we were made to feel less. Un-restaurant yourself," said the chef remembering his sisters words. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He revealed that Radhika wanted him to welcome everyone warmly like a cook" and not like a chef." He added, She taught me not my degrees and my Michelin stars, or what I was wearing on my head She taught me a whole new perspective on a restaurant." The Micheline star chef mentioned that his sister taught him that this is not a food business," and made him realise that he can alleviate people of their pain and loneliness, nostalgia. This is what food has to do." Location : Delhi, India First Published: January 06, 2025, 09:31 IST Food Crisis, Beauty Decline: A Century-Old Prediction For 2025 Is Trending Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 13:32 IST In the 1920s, some brilliant thinkers made predictions about what 2025 might look like. Sir Ronald Ross predicted that humans could live up to 150 years. (Representative Image/Freepik) As we begin a new year, it is natural to think about what the future holds. But have you ever wondered what people 100 years ago thought life would be like today? In the 1920s, some brilliant thinkers made predictions about what 2025 might look like. While some ideas missed the mark, others were surprisingly accurate. Lets take a look at some of the most interesting ones as per Akron Beacon Journal. In 1925, Albert E. Wiggam, an American psychologist, predicted that future generations might see a decline in physical beauty. He believed that ordinary-looking people were having more children than attractive ones, which according to him, could impact overall appearance over time. related stories If we keep progressing in the wrong direction, as we have been doing, American beauty is bound to decline and there wont be a good-looking girl to be found 100 years from now," he told an audience in Brooklyn, New York. On a brighter note, scientific advancements brought hope for longer lives. Sir Ronald Ross, a British doctor who won the 1902 Nobel Prize in Medicine, predicted that humans could live up to 150 years due to the eradication of diseases. He even believed that medical progress might make immortality possible. A famous American doctor has suggested to me that we should all be immortal. Who can tell what scientific investigation may bring? No one can say how long we may live when we are free from the ravages of germs," he said. H.G. Wells, the author of books The Time Machine and The War of the Worlds, had his own vision of the future. During a dinner at the Hotel Cecil in London, he predicted that by 2025, the world would be shaped by powerful confederations rather than independent nations. In a hundred years, there will not be numerous nations, but only three great masses of people the United States of America, the United States of Europe and China," he said. Meanwhile, E.E. Fournier dAlbe, an Irish physicist and chemist, imagined a perfect world for 2025. In his 1925 book, he predicted a future with one government and a universal language. He also believed that medical advancements would eliminate age-related problems and make almost any injury treatable. On top of that, he thought new fabrics would be invented. British scientist Archibald M. Low envisioned a future with television machines, breakfast tubes, automatic sleep beds, wireless banking, moving sidewalks and one-piece suits made of artificial felt. He also imagined that women will compete on equal terms with men" and airports with smooth, fast flights from rooftop terminals, offering comfort and speed. In 1925, Professor Lowell J. Reed predicted a food shortage in the US by 2025 due to population growth. On the other hand, Dr. A.R. Wentz, a professor at the Lutheran Theological Seminary in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, anticipated that there will be a substitute for sleep and people would use a pocket-sized apparatus for communications." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Sophie Irene Loeb, president of the Child Welfare Committee of America, predicted a future with no child poverty. There should be no pauper child in this country, and no able-bodied child should be anywhere except in its home. The children our future citizens need, and are entitled to, not charity, but a chance," Loeb said. Location : Delhi, India First Published: January 06, 2025, 13:32 IST Loom Co-Founder Vinay Hiremath Reflects On Life After Selling Company For $975 Million: 'No Idea What To Do' Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 13:51 IST After selling Loom, Vinay Hiremath opened up about feeling insecure after reaching the peak of his career. The former Loom co-founder is currently in Hawaii. (Photo Credits: Instagram) Vinay Hiremath, co-founder of Loom, is navigating a difficult period after stepping away from his plans to work with Elon Musk at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Instead, he made a bold move, booking a one-way ticket to Hawaii to study physics. Having sold Loom to Atlassian for $975 million (around Rs 836 Crore), Hiremath revealed his feelings of insecurity after reaching the peak of his career. In a blog post, he expressed, I am rich and I have no idea what to do with my life." After selling his company, he faced a tough choice, a $60 million paycheck or the chance to find a new purpose in life. Hiremath explored various avenues, meeting with investors and robotics experts. However, none of these opportunities seemed to spark the motivation he was looking for. related stories Hiremath then spent time travelling with his girlfriend, but the relationship ended painfully after two years. He wrote, Life has been a haze this last year. After selling my company, I find myself in the totally un-relatable position of never having to work again. Everything feels like a side quest, but not in an inspiring way. I dont have the same base desires driving me to make money or gain status. I have infinite freedom, yet I dont know what to do with it. This is a completely zeroth-world position to be in." Last March, Vinay Hiremath felt lost and unsure about the next step in his life. While he knew staying at the company that acquired Loom wasnt the right fit for him and found it difficult to walk away from a $60 million offer. In the two weeks after leaving his decade-long career, he met 70 investors and robotics experts. He had been exploring robotics for a while and thought it was his next big move. However, by the end of those two weeks, he felt disappointed and unsure. He realised that deep down, he wanted to be like Elon Musk, but when he thought about it, the idea made him feel awkward and ashamed". After deciding to not start a robotics company, I found myself rudderless. No sense of direction. I travelled to many beautiful places with my loving and supportive (ex) girlfriend. This 6-month stretch could be several essays on its own, but the outcome of this period is that nothing seemed right. We started getting into regular arguments and I knew it wasnt on her. It was me. I was starting to come to terms with all the mounting insecurities I had stuffed down over the past several years. I didnt feel like I could work on them with her. So I broke things off after almost 2 years of unconditional love. It was extremely painful, but it was the right call. I needed to fully face myself," the entrepreneur explained. After his breakup, Vinay decided to deal with his emotions by climbing a 6800-meter peak in the Himalayas, even though he had no experience or training in mountaineering. At first, it felt like the perfect idea, but as he went further into the trek, the altitude sickness, cold and illness started to hit him. Despite the hardships, he finished the trek and understood that challenging himself to do hard things is really important to him. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all When Vinay Hiremath returned home, one of his friends jokingly suggested that he should work with Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy at the DOGE to help America avoid a financial collapse. Taking it seriously, he reached out to a few contacts and got involved. After several calls, he was quickly added to various groups and started working. Vinay then recruited brilliant people and worked on projects he couldnt discuss, all while seeing how disorganized the government was. Despite the excitement, he realised that for him the most important thing was dealing with his insecurities. After four intense weeks, he decided to book a one-way ticket to Hawaii to focus on his personal journey. Now, the former Loom co-founder has settled in Hawaii, where hes diving into the study of physics to build a solid foundation of knowledge. His goal is to eventually launch a company that creates tangible products. However, hes come to realise that the true motivation behind this pursuit is his genuine enjoyment of the subject. If it doesnt lead to anything monumental, he says he wont regret it. For the first time in a long while, hes being honest with himself, embracing his journey with kindness and a sense of contentment. Location : Delhi, India First Published: January 06, 2025, 13:12 IST Reconstruction of the railway track on the section State Border of Poland - Mostyska II - Sknyliv (Lviv) has been postponed until 2026, according to the Operational Plan of the Strategy for the Development of Border Infrastructure with EU Countries and the Republic of Moldova until 2030 on the Cabinet of Ministers website. According to it, out of the UAH 10.92 billion needed for the implementation of the project, the first tranche of UAH 4.27 billion will be allocated only in 2026. The allocation of another UAH 4.83 billion is planned for 2027, and UAH 1.81 billion in 2028. The project will be implemented using international technical assistance, international financial institutions, the state budget and other sources not prohibited by law, the text of the document says. In February 2024, former Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration - Minister of Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development Oleksandr Kubrakov announced that the construction of the first major section of the European route Mostyska-Sknyliv would begin before the end of 2024. Later it became known that Ukraine failed to attract funding from the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) for the project. It was reported that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is studying the possibility of financing 50% of the project cost. Indian-origin Woman Travels From Spain To Odisha To Find Birth Mother: 'Even If It's Difficult...' Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 11:21 IST Although with little information, Sneha travelled all the way to India to trace her roots. The 21-year-old received support from both her Spanish parents Gema Vidal and Juan Josh. In 2010, Sneha and her brother were legally adopted by the Spanish couple. (Photo Credits: X) Adopted children on many occasions set out on a journey to find their biological parents. In a similar instance, an Indian-origin woman from Spain returned to Odisha to find her birth mother. The woman was abandoned by her parents 20 years back after which a Spanish couple adopted her. Sneha has grown up to become a researcher in childrens education in Spain. Although with little information, Sneha travelled all the way to India to trace her roots. The 21-year-old received support from both her Spanish parents Gema Vidal and Juan Josh. Sneha and her Spanish mother, who accompanied her in this journey, went to the orphanage in Bhubaneswar from where Sneha and her brother Somu were adopted in 2010. The siblings lived in that orphanage ever since their mother abandoned them in 2005. At that time, Sneha was just a year old and her brother was four years old. related stories Speaking to PTI, Sneha said, The purpose of my journey from Spain to Bhubaneswar is to find my biological parents, especially my mother. I want to find her and meet her. I am fully prepared for the journey even if it is difficult." Sneha and her Spanish mom Gema, a yoga teacher in Zaragoza city of Spain, reached Bhubaneswar on December 19, 2024. Gema mentioned, We have to return to Spain as Sneha has joined a training programme which should not be discontinued. If we do not get Banalata in the next 24 hours, we will come back to Bhubaneswar in March." During their exploration, Sneha and Gema met a retired teacher of Rama Devi Womens University, Sneha Sudha Mishra and city Commissioner of Police Dev Datta Singh. Snehas biological parents were identified as Banalata Das and Santosh Das. The Police Commissioner has, meanwhile, assigned two police personnel Anjali Chhotray and Gangadhar Pradhan with the task of finding out Banalata and Santosh. We have found out that Banalata Das and Santosh are from Badamba-Narsinghpur area in Cuttack district. We have engaged police and panchayat functionaries to locate them," Inspector Anjali Chhotray stated, as reported by the news agency. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all According to the news agency, Banalata had abandoned Sneha and Somu at their rented place in Bhubaneswars Nayapalli area in 2005. Her husband Santosh, who worked as a cook in a private firm, had earlier abandoned his family. The family included Banalata and two more children, other than Sneha and Somu. Eventually, Banalata also left the house with one son and one daughter, leaving behind Sneha and Somu. When the landlord informed police, the siblings were moved to an orphanage. In 2010, Sneha and her brother were legally adopted by the Spanish couple. Speaking of her life, Sneha told PTI that her Spanish parents have given the siblings everything. She highlighted that they never made the brother-sister duo feel like they were adopted. They have given us unconditional love," the 21-year-old added. Location : Delhi, India First Published: January 06, 2025, 11:21 IST Trudeau Out, Two Indian-Origin Contenders Among 8 In Canadian PM Race Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 08:57 IST The Canadian leader announced his resignation (local time) at a news conference this morning at Rideau Cottage. Anita Anand (left) and George Chahal (right) (Photos: X) Justin Trudeau on Monday announced his resignation as Canadian Prime Minister and Liberal Party leader amid a revolt from his own party and soaring public unpopularity as polls predict a wipeout from power by Pierre Poilievres Conservatives in general elections this year. The Canadian leader announced his resignation (local time) at a news conference this morning at Rideau Cottage. This comes as a growing number of Liberal MPs have called on him to resign, with 131 of 153 MPs against him. related stories Who is Justin Trudeau? The Teacher Who Became Canadas Second-Youngest Prime Minister Trudeau is likely to continue as interim Prime Minister till new leadership is elected or the party can provide a new leader. Contenders To Replace Trudeau Chrystia Freeland: Serving as Trudeaus deputy PM and Finance Minister, Freelands shocking resignation amid differences with Trudeau over US President-elect Donald Trumps tariff threats plunged the government into crisis. All eyes would be on Freeland as she is billed as the most high-profile contender to replace Trudeau with her strong international credentials and economic expertise, although her long association with Trudeaus government may pose as a liability. Mark Carney: A former Bank of Canada and Bank of England Governor, Carney has emerged as a strong contender for the leadership position. His financial acumen and economic credentials may aid his grand political achievements, but he lacks political experience and his outsider status may hurt his leadership bid. Dominic LeBlanc: A senior Liberal Cabinet minister and a close confidante of Trudeau, LeBlanc has significant political experience that makes him a viable candidate for the leadership post. LeBlanc currently serves as the Finance Minister after Freelands exit. A source told The Globe and Mail that Trudeau discussed whether LeBlanc would be willing to step in as interim leader, although he lacks the popularity of Freeland. Melanie Joly: Another top contender to replace Trudeau, Joly serves as the foreign minister and is considered close to the beleaguered Prime Minister. Her handling of Canadas conflicts with India, China and Russia have attracted criticism, but she still remains a strong competitor. However, her efforts to woo voters may be hampered by her strong association with Trudeaus government and her foreign policy outreach. Francois-Philippe Champagne: A businessman, trade and international specialist with decades of experience at large international companies, Champagne is also a top contender to replace Trudeau as the party leader. Liberal leaders from Quebec favour him as a suitable choice for party leader due to his progressive policies, although he faces challenges in attracting centrist votes. Christy Clark: Former British Columbia premier Clark has also expressed her interest in leading the party after Trudeau. The 58-year-old politician is a prominent figure in Canadian politics and is one of the dissenting Liberal politicians calling for Trudeaus exit. She has also accused him of stoking divisions" Two Indian-Origin MPs In Running Anita Anand, former Defence Minister and current Transport and Internal Trade Minister in Trudeaus Cabinet, is also being seen as a potential successor to lead the party. Her parents were both Indian physicians from Tamil Nadu and Punjab. Anand holds significant experience in politics, since leading contract negotiations to secure medical equipment at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic as Minister of Public Services and Procurement, from 2019 to 2021. However, several MPs have expressed a preference for another Indian-origin interim leader Alberta Liberal MP George Chahal, who wrote a letter to his caucus colleagues with that request last week. An advocate and a community leader, Chahal as served in various committees as the Calgary City Councillor for Ward 5 and is also the Chair of the Standing Committee on Natural Resources, and the Chair of the Sikh Caucus. Chahal has also grown increasingly critical of Trudeau and has called on him to step down and for the party to begin a leadership contest. However, if Chahal is elected interim leader, he will be ruled out of the PM race as tradition dictates that the interim leader does not run as a candidate. Whats Next? Trudeaus worries deepened when former ally New Democratic Party (NDP) led by Jagmeet Singh said it would withdraw support and aid a confidence vote against the Liberal government, adding to the flurry of calls demanding the 53-year-old leader to step down amid public scorn over financial and housing problems. The Atlantic, Ontario and Quebec caucuses have signalled that most of their membership no longer supports Trudeau remaining at the helm. Of the 153 seats that the Liberals hold in the House of Commons, those three regions account for 131 of them. Trudeau told MPs that hed reflect on his future before a holiday break. Now Trudeau has resigned, the party has two options. The party would either appoint an interim leader on the recommendation of national caucus or hold a shortened leadership contest. A leadership contest would require the Prime Minister to request that Governor-General Mary Simon prorogue Parliament, which constitutional experts say is not guaranteed, according to The Globe. However, the Liberals are likely to appoint an interim leader to replace Trudeau while the party sets up a special leadership convention. The party constitution dictates that the party executive has to call a meeting within 27 days of the resignation to lay down rules in case of a leadership contest. The three sources said they are uncertain about the plans of the Liberal Party national executive to replace Trudeau as leader. The Liberal party faces a dire challenge. If the special leadership convention could take months to arrange and if an election does occur before then, the Liberals would be in the hands of an interim prime minister not chosen by members, which has never happened in Canada before. There is also a possibility that a shorter timeline would lead to making bad choices, which the national executive is aware of. Google Searches For Justin Trudeau As he announced his resignation, searches for Justin Trudeau started spiking on Google India, peaking at 9:46pm on Monday. Most searches came from Chandigarh, followed by Punjab and Delhi. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all People also searched for related keywords like justin trudeau resign, trudeau resign, canadian prime minister justin trudeau, justin trudeau news, canada justin trudeau, and justin trudeau age. Location : Ottawa, Canada First Published: January 06, 2025, 19:27 IST Canada's Increasingly 'Pro-Terror' Stance After Trudeau Came To Power In 2015: A Timeline Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 22:02 IST For India, Justin Trudeau's term will be most remembered for the sharp dip in Indo-Canadian ties over the killing of 'designated' terrorist and pro-Khalistan activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar Canadian PM Justin Trudeau (L) and NDP leader Jagmeet Singh take part in the federal election English-language Leaders debate in Quebec, Canada, on September 9, 2021. (Image: Reuters/File) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday announced his intention to resign from his post and as the leader of the Liberal Party when the party elects its next leader. This means his resignation will take effect as soon as the party elects its next leader, for which he said he has asked the president to start the process. The development comes amid growing dissent within the Liberal Party while his popularity has waned in recent months, with his government narrowly surviving a series of no-confidence votes and critics calling for his resignation. For India, however, his term will be most remembered for the sharp dip in diplomatic relations over the killing of designated terrorist and pro-Khalistan activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. related stories His government has displayed an increasingly soft stance for extremists and radicals seeking refuge in Canada, which has largely been labelled pro-terror" after Trudeau came to power in 2015. Heres a timeline of events: 2016: EXTREMIST LITERATURE IN CANADIAN MOSQUES In August 2016, a study titled Lovers of the Death?": Islamist Extremism in Our Mosques, Schools and Libraries, made a startling claim that multiple mosques in Canada have been propagating teachings from extremist" literature and are at the same time placing young children at risk. The study was authored by a former intelligence analyst with the Privy Council Office and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Thomas Quiggin, and journalist Saied Shoaaib, who is originally from Egypt. In 2015, Trudeaus first year of governance, the Senate defence and security committee issued a report saying some foreign-trained imams had been spreading extremist religious ideology and messages, which were not in line with Canadian values and contributing to radicalisation. 2017: TRUDEAUS ALLY, NDP TAKEN OVER BY PRO-KHALISTAN LEADER In 2017, Jagmeet Singh, a known and vocal pro-Khalistan leader who had actively attended events echoing anti-India sentiment, took over Trudeaus ally, New Democratic Party (NDP). His leadership campaign spokesperson, Amneet Bali, had been reportedly associated with an organisation called the Sikh Activist Network (SAN). This organisations literature reportedly pledged to fight Oppressive Domination of the Fascist Indian Machinery. Back then, Trudeaus close aide Jagmeet Singh also campaigned once for the clemency of Balwant Singh Rajoana, who directed the 1995 assassination of Punjab chief minister Beant Singh. India, for these very reasons, has denied a visa to Jagmeet Singh. 2018: CANADA ACKNOWLEDGES ANTI-INDIA TERROR SENTIMENTS 2018 was the year that Trudeau first visited India as a Prime Minister. This was also the year that witnessed movement within Canada to acknowledge Khalistani extremism as a problem in the country. In October that year, Canada suspended an Islamic charity for allegedly funding Kashmir terrorists. The organisation called Islamic Society of North America-Canada (ISNA- Canada) gifted" US$90,000 to the Relief Organisation for Kashmiri Muslims (ROKM), described as a charity arm of Pakistans Jamaat-e-Islami. 2019: CANADAS SURRENDER TO KHALISTANIS According to Canadian news portal Global News, the government in April 2019 reportedly removed a reference to Sikh extremism from its 2018 public report on the terrorism threat to Canada under pressure from Sikh groups. The reference was diluted to a more banal terminology Extremists who support violent means to establish an independent state within India. 2023 AND 2024: BRAZEN PRO-TERROR IGNORANCE The years 2023 and 2024 saw Trudeaus ignorance of pro-terror" sentiments in Canada reach a peak. There were countless incidents and anecdotes of the government turning a blind eye to rising radicalism in the country. January 2023: Picture of ISIS Flags Sent By Canadian School On January 11, CTV reported an instance where a Toronto-based elementary school emailed a picture of an ISIS flag during Islamic Heritage Month to students parents. The mail was sent by principal Darlene Jones, who later declined to comment. After backlash, she was forced to apologise but no explanation was offered on how or why the mail was sent. September 2023: Trudeau Defends Pro-Khalistan Rallies In September 2023, Trudeau was in India for the G20 summit. He was asked about Khalistan protests in his country and he defended them saying: Canada will always defend freedom of expression, freedom of conscience, and freedom of peaceful protest and it is extremely important to us at the same time, we are always there to prevent violence and to push back against hatred." September 2023: Trudeau Supports Nijjar In the same month, Trudeau, without any evidence, spoke in the Canadian parliament blaming India for Nijjars murder. This was the moment that set the ball rolling and hammered the last nail in the coffin on Indo-Canadian relations. November 2023: Petition Calling Nijjar Peaceful Activist According to records from the Canadian Parliament, a petition filed by Gurmeet Toor, an alleged Nijjar, was tabled through Sukh Dhaliwal from the Liberal Party. It was backed with Nijjar being called an upright, god-fearing, law-abiding and peaceful member of the Canadian Sikh community". The Canadian government placed a response in November saying it is unequivocal that any involvement of a foreign government in the killing of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil is an unacceptable violation of Canadian sovereignty". February 2024: Teenager Charged with Plotting Attack on Jews The CBS News reported on February 16, 2024 that a 15-year-old boy was charged for allegedly plotting a terror attack on Jews in Canada. It was alleged that in October 2023, he instructed someone to carry out a terrorist activity against Jewish people, and that he communicated instructions about an explosive substance around the same time. April 2024: Trudeau Attends Pro-Khalistan Event In April 2024, Trudeau attended a Khalsa Day event in Toronto. As he came onto the podium to address the gathering, there were pro-Khalistan and anti-India" slogans. He did not object to the slogans and let them continue, while India registered a strong protest against his presence at this gathering. September 2024: Pakistani Held for Plotting Attack in New York A Pakistani national was arrested in Quebec as he was allegedly about to cross the border to carry out a terror attack targeting Jews in New York City. Muhammad Shahzeb Khan, 20, was arrested in Ormstown on September 6 after driving from Toronto. October 2024: Death to Canada Slogans by Pro-Palestine Protesters In videos circulated online, an unidentified masked woman led a crowd of hundreds at the Vancouver Art Gallery on October 8 and raised chants of death to Canada, death to the United States and death to Israel, while some in the group burned Canadian flags. November 2024: Canadian College Employs Convicted Terrorist In November 2024, it was found that Carleton University in Canada had listed a terrorist convicted for carrying out an attack on a synagogue in Paris in 1980, as an instructor for Social Justice in Action. Hassan Diab was convicted after Frances highest court upheld an appeal against the closure of his case in 2021, as per the BBC. This was also raised by Canadas opposition leader Pierre Pollivere, who posted on X: Why hasnt he been extradited to France to face justice?" top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all November 2024: Jagmeet Singh Found to be Funded by Pro-Khalistan Groups In November 2024, a News18 exclusive investigation found that Nijjar donated to Jagmeet Singhs NDP between 2014 and 2019. Apart from this, separatist Mo Dhaliwal also donated to the party between 2017 and 2021. In May 2017, Dhaliwal donated 1,550 Canadian dollars to the NDP. Location : Canada First Published: January 06, 2025, 21:06 IST 'Dam Over Brahmaputra Won't Impact Water Flows To India': China After New Delhi Raises Concern Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 17:15 IST Last month, China approved plans to build a dam over the Brahmaputra River called Yarlung Zangbo in Tibet close to the Indian border. A section of the Yarlung Zangbo falls a dramatic 2,000 metres (6,561 feet) within a short span of 50 km (31 miles), offering huge hydropower potential as well as unique engineering challenges. (File) China on Monday reiterated its plan to build the worlds biggest dam over the Brahmaputra River in Tibet near the Indian border, saying the planned project has gone through rigorous scientific verification and will not have any negative impact on downstream countries India and Bangladesh. The project, estimated to cost around USD 137 billion, is located in the ecologically fragile Himalayan region along a tectonic plate boundary where earthquakes occur frequently. Chinas construction of the hydropower project over in the Yarlung Tsangpo River (the Tibetan name for Brahmaputra River) downstream has gone through rigorous scientific verification and will not have any negative impact on the ecological environment, geology and water resources of the downstream countries, Chinese Foreign Ministrys new spokesman Guo Jiakun told a media briefing here. related stories On the contrary, it will be conducive to downstream disaster prevention and mitigation and response to climate change to a certain extent, he said, replying to a question that India has expressed its concerns over the dam and the issue figured in the Indian officials talks with the visiting and US National Security Advisor Sullivan. Sullivan, currently visiting Delhi, held talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday broadly reviewing the trajectory of the India-US global strategic partnership in the last four years under the Biden administration. Sullivan is on a visit to India two weeks ahead of Donald Trumps inauguration as the 47th president of the US. Last month, China approved plans to build a dam over the Brahmaputra River called Yarlung Zangbo in Tibet close to the Indian border. As per the plan, the massive dam will be built at a huge gorge in the Himalayan reaches where the Brahmaputra makes a huge U-turn to flow into Arunachal Pradesh and then to Bangladesh. In its first reaction to the proposed dam on Jan 3, India urged China to ensure that the interests of downstream states of the Brahmaputra are not harmed by activities in upstream areas. "We will continue to monitor and take necessary measures to protect our interests," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told media in Delhi. "As a lower riparian state with established user rights to the waters of the river, we have consistently expressed, through expert-level as well as diplomatic channels, our views and concerns to the Chinese side over mega projects on rivers in their territory," Jaiswal said. "These have been reiterated, along with the need for transparency and consultation with downstream countries, following the latest report," he said. "The Chinese side has been urged to ensure that the interests of downstream states of the Brahmaputra are not harmed by activities in upstream areas," he added. On Dec 27, another Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, defended Chinas plan to build the worlds largest dam on the Brahmaputra River in Tibet, saying the project will not negatively affect lower riparian states and that safety issues have been addressed through decades of studies. "The project will not negatively affect the lower reaches," she said, referring to the concerns in India and Bangladesh, which are the lower riparian states. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all China will continue to maintain communication with countries at the lower reaches through existing channels and step up cooperation on disaster prevention and relief for the benefit of the people by the river," she said. She said Chinas hydropower development in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River aims to speed up the development of clean energy and respond to climate change and extreme hydrological disasters. Location : Beijing, China First Published: January 06, 2025, 17:15 IST 'Campuses Hijacked: Indian Student Alleges Biased Probe On Hate Campaign At LSE Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 19:27 IST Last year, Satyam Surana had alleged that he was targeted and called a 'fascist' while campaigning for the student union elections at London School of Economics (LSE). Satyam Surana (ANI) Satyam Surana, an Indian student in the United Kingdom (UK), who had alleged hate campaigns during the student union elections at the London School of Economics (LSE), has accused the institution of bias" and mishandling his case. He alleged that the institution ignored substantial evidence of hate campaigns against him, labelling the inquiry process as unfair and biased. related stories In an interview to news agency ANI, Surana opened up on his allegations and said that despite his providing irrefutable evidence" to the authorities, all the charges have been ignored citing the submissions as insufficient" and the remarks by accused students being put under the category of freedom of expression. Despite presenting screenshots of hate messages, course IDs of accused students, and other evidence, his claims were deemed insufficient. Immediately after all this incident of harassment, hate, bullying and all the doxing happened, I immediately approached the universitys authorities for the redressal and through every mechanism possible. I approached the security and the department to withhold the security footage right from getting the accused persons CCTV footage of scribbling and marking my posters over the campus, to reporting the WhatsApp messages, the hate comments that I got, the abuses that I got on different platforms of social media," he said to the news agency. Surana also alleged that the authorities deliberately delayed the investigation to favour the accused students, as most of them ended up passing out in this long duration. The Pune-born Satyam Surana in 2023 came into the spotlight when he defiantly picked up the tricolour from the road during an attack at the Indian High Commission by extremist elements. In a series of social media posts on March 26 last year, Surana said he was targeted for taking a pro-India position on issues like terrorism and Ram mandir, during the LSE student polls. Surana further claimed that major university campuses at present have been overtaken by left-leaning ideologies that stifle diverse voices, particularly those of students with Hindu identities. This is not the first incidence of what I have faced there have been multiple similar incidents in the past be it in Oxford, be it in the same London School of Economics, or be it in other universities as well. So this systematic pattern highlights one very important thing these campuses are not open to accepting people who are vocal about their Hindu identity, Indian identity or any sort of identity or ideology which is incoherent with their well-established left-wing ideology," Surana said. We have faculties who are consistent in their anti-India stance we have a multiple number of other faculties in other universitiesTheir anti-India hatred stems from theirhinti-Hindu hatred which as a political ideology has now manifested itself in these peoples different forms of urban naxalism, and they are using and they are brainwashing these groups of young Indian students and turning them into what we may call, urban nationals, Maoists terror sympathizers and that is why they have hijacked this entire academia, he added. Last year, Surana had alleged that he was targeted and called a fascist while campaigning for the student union elections. He had alleged that a campaign was initiated against him hours before the voting for the student union elections began. He also alleged that his opponents associated him with the BJP, and labelled him a fascist to boycott him. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Surana had also claimed those who targeted him were the ones who could not digest the success of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, thus resorting to such false and malicious propaganda. (With inputs from ANI) Location : London, United Kingdom (UK) First Published: January 06, 2025, 18:24 IST Justin Trudeau Likely To Quit As Liberal Party Leader, But May Continue As Canada PM Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Pragati Ratti Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 09:52 IST Reports say Trudeau is likely to resign this week, with 131 out 153 MPs against him. As per reports, Quebec, Ontario and Atlantic province caucuses have decided to remove Trudeau. Canadian PM Trudeau's leadership has landed in hot waters. (AP/File) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is facing a huge challenge within his party, and as per reports, is now left with the support of just 20-23 Liberal MPs. Reports say Trudeau is likely to resign this week, with 131 out 153 MPs against him. As per reports, Quebec, Ontario and Atlantic province caucuses have decided to remove Trudeau. Sources say the Canadian Prime Ministers Office has asked all employees to be present on Monday. While the Liberal Party is in no mood to go for elections, reports say Trudeau is likely to resign as the leader of The Liberal Party to save himself from the embarrassment at Liberal National Caucus meet on Wednesday. However, he may continue as interim PM till new leadership is elected or the party can give a new leader. related stories Reports say it takes three to four months for a party to elect a new leader. According to reports, Trudeau is planning to end the next session of Parliament prorogue and could advise the same to the Governor General. This could be done to avoid no confidence motion so he could continue as interim PM. The Finance Bill will last till March and that is when the next session may be scheduled. The following liberal candidates are possible contenders to replace Trudeau: 1) Christina Alexandra Freeland 2) Dominic LeBlanc, former housing minister 3) Melanie Joly 4) Francois-Philippe Champagne 5) Anita Anand 6) Mark Carney top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all 7) Christy Clark Trudeau came to power in 2015 and led the Liberals to two more victories in 2019 and 2021. However, in the recent opinion polls, the Canadian PM trails his rival, Conservative Pierre Poilievre, by 20 points. First Published: January 06, 2025, 09:52 IST Justin Trudeau Resigns As Canada PM & Party Leader, Reveals His 'One Regret' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 00:06 IST Trudeau's resignation would leave the party without a leader just months before the next legislative elections, scheduled for the end of October Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has been facing dissent within the party. (AP Image) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who announced his resignation on Monday, expressed that his one regret" was not being able to reform the way governments are elected in Canada. Trudeau further wished that Canadians could have the option to choose a second or third choice on the same ballot, allowing for a more flexible voting system. related stories If I have one regret, particularly as we approach this election well, probably many regrats that I will think of," he said. But I do wish wed been able to change the way we elect our governments in this country so that people could simply choose a second choice, or a third choice on the same ballot." Trudeau confirmed he would step down as Prime Minister once the Liberal Party elects a new leader, following months of declining poll numbers and growing internal division. I intend to resign as party leader and Prime Minister after the party selects its next leader," said Trudeau, who has been in office since 2015. His announcement follows increasing calls from his party for him to step down amidst a protracted political crisis. Reports had earlier surfaced that Trudeau might resign as Liberal Party leader as early as Monday, amid rising dissent within the party. According to several media reports, including The Globe and Mail and The Toronto Star, sources within the Liberal Party expect him to step down ahead of the national caucus meeting on Wednesday. The announcement could come within the next 24 hours, sources told both newspapers on Sunday. Trudeaus resignation would leave the party without a leader just months before the next legislative elections, scheduled for the end of October. It is still unclear whether the 53-year-old would remain as interim leader or vacate the position immediately if he resigns as prime minister. One source, who recently spoke to the Canadian Prime Minister, said Trudeau understands the need to make a statement before meeting the Liberal caucus to avoid the appearance of being forced out by his own MPs. The three sources noted they are uncertain about the plans of the Liberal Party national executive to replace Trudeau as leader, The Globe and Mail reported. Trudeau Faces Growing Pressure To Resign This development comes as Trudeaus popularity has declined in recent months, with his government narrowly surviving several no-confidence votes and critics calling for his resignation. He had pledged to stay on and lead the Liberals into the elections but has faced increased pressure, especially from incoming US president Donald Trump, who threatened a 25% tariff on Canadian goods. In December, Canadian Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland resigned after disagreeing with Trudeau over how to handle Trumps proposed tariffs, marking the first public dissent within his cabinet. In response, Trudeau reshuffled his cabinet later that month, replacing a third of his team in an effort to manage the growing political turmoil. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Trudeau, who swept to power in 2015 and led the Liberals to two more electoral victories in 2019 and 2021, now trails his main rival, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, by 20 points in public opinion polls. (With inputs from AFP) Location : Canada First Published: January 06, 2025, 18:38 IST Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 23:55 IST Canada PM Justin Trudeau Resignation Highlights: Canadian PM Justin Trudeau has resigned from his role as Canadian PM and chief of the Canadian Liberal Party after facing a rebellion from his own party members and also as he grew unpopular because of his policies. The Canadian leader announced his resignation (local time) at a news conference this morning at Rideau Cottage. I intend to resign as prime minister and party leader, Justin Trudeau told reporters. He said he took the decision to step down after holding conversations with his children and wife. He said he asked the Canadian governor-general to prorogue the parliament because key decisions were not taken and the institution was paralysed. He also called himself a fighter and claimed that Pierre Poilievre, his rival and leader of the Conservative Party pipped to defeat his Liberal Party in the next elections, is not the right leader to lead Canada, citing his views on climate change and economic issues. Nepal's Buddha Air Flight Makes Emergency Landing After Flame Detected In Engine Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 12:55 IST The Air Buddha flight carried 76 people on board, including the crew. The aircraft made an emergency landing at Tribhuvan International Airport. Buddha Air Flight (Photo: X/Buddha Air) A Buddha Air flight made an emergency landing at Tribhuvan International Airport in Nepals Kathmandu on Monday after sustaining a flame out from the left engine. There were 76 people on board including the crew, Tribhuvan International Airport said. related stories Buddha Air flight makes VOR landing at Tribhuvan International Airport in Nepals Kathmandu after sustaining a flame out from the left engine. The aircraft had 76 people on board including the crew: Tribhuvan International Airport pic.twitter.com/IHbxcXriRk ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025 Flight Number 953 was en route to Bhadrapur from Kathmandu when the aircraft encountered a technical issue" in its engine, the airlines posted on X. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all As a result, the aircraft was diverted back to Kathmandu and safely landed at Tribhuvan International Airport at 11:15 am," it said. Our technical team is currently inspecting the aircraft. Arrangements are being made to send the passengers to Bhadrapur on another flight," Buddha Air said. Location : Kathmandu, Nepal First Published: January 06, 2025, 12:35 IST The Ukrainian Defense Ministry has instructed the German defense concern Rheinmetall to supply additional 35-mm ammunition for the Gepard anti-aircraft mounts. As reported on the concern's website on Monday, the new order includes 180,000 HEI-T (high-explosive incendiary with tracer) ammunition and was booked in December 2024. They will be produced at the Rheinmetall plant in Unterlu. "The order value is in the high double-digit million euro range and is being funded by Germany. Already in February of 2023, Rheinmetall received an order to supply 300,000 rounds of Gepard ammunition to Ukraine," the report says. According to the concern, the ammunition can be used to combat various air targets, including unmanned aerial vehicles. "Due to the increased demand for 35mm ammunition, the production line at the site was rebuilt at great expense in a very short time in the spring of 2023," Rheinmetall said. The concert noted that Germany has already transferred 55 Gepard anti-aircraft guns to Ukraine, which were removed from service with the Bundeswehr, and they have proven their effectiveness in air defense for more than two years. As reported, in December, Rheinmetall signed a contract with the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine for the supply of several tens of thousands of propellant charge modules for 155-mm artillery guns in January 2025. The value of the order, placed in the 4th quarter of 2024, is about EUR 9 million. North Korea Fires Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile During Blinken's Visit To Seoul Published By : Reuters Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 13:36 IST US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is on a visit to Seoul, said a North Korean intermediate-range ballistic missile test was carried out on Monday. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is currently on a visit to South Korea. (Reuters) US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said a North Korean missile test carried out during his visit to Seoul on Monday was a reminder of the need to deepen Washingtons cooperation with South Korea and Japan to deter an emboldened Pyongyang. North Korea fired what appeared to be an intermediate-range ballistic missile at around noon (0300 GMT), which flew more than 1,100 kilometres (690 miles) east before falling into the sea, according to South Koreas military. related stories Speaking a few hours later, Blinken told a news conference the launch underscored the importance of collaboration between the US, South Korea and Japan, including on sharing real-time missile data and holding trilateral military exercises. Todays launch is just a reminder to all of us of how important our collaborative work is," he said. Blinken also warned of Pyongyangs deepening ties with Moscow. He said Washington believed Russia intended to share space and satellite technology with North Korea in exchange for its support for the Ukraine war, in which more than 1,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded. President Joe Biden, who leaves office this month, made headway in deepening trilateral cooperation between the US and South Korea and Japan, despite historic issues that have often plagued relations between the Asian neighbours. But political turmoil in South Korea, together with the imminent return of the unpredictable rule of Donald Trump in the United States, has raised questions over whether those efforts can be sustained. South Korean lawmakers last month voted to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol and suspend him from duties after his Dec. 3 declaration of martial law stunned the country. Yoons impeachment trial is being heard by the Constitutional Court. If Yoon is permanently removed from office, a presidential election would be called and the liberals seen as likely to win that contest have been critical of Yoons efforts to partner with Tokyo. Blinken, who also met on Monday with acting President Choi Sang-mok, told the news conference that while Washington had serious concerns" about Yoons actions, it had confidence in the countrys institutions and democratic resilience. Mondays launch was Pyongyangs first since Nov. 5 when it fired at least seven short-range ballistic missiles. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all It was not immediately clear what type of missile was fired but North Koreas IRBM tests last year featured a new solid-fuel design and carried what Pyongyang said was a hypersonic glide vehicle, a warhead designed to be able to manoeuvre and evade missile defences. The North has said it is working to make its missiles of all ranges solid fuel. Solid-fuel missiles do not need to be fuelled immediately ahead of launch, are often easier and safer to operate, and require less logistical support, making them harder to detect and more survivable than liquid-fuel weapons. Location : Seoul, South Korea First Published: January 06, 2025, 13:29 IST Pressure Mounts On Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh Tribunal Issues Another Arrest Warrant Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 14:13 IST The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) of Bangladesh, founded by Hasina herself, filed two warrants against the former PM and others over alleged enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. Sheikh Hasina is currently residing in New Delhi following her ouster in August last year. (IMAGE: REUTERS) Bangladeshs International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has issued an arrest warrant against ousted former Prime Minister and 10 others, including her former Defence Adviser Tarique Ahmed Siddique and former IGP Benazir Ahmed over alleged enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. The tribunal, chaired by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Majumdar, issued the orders after the prosecution filed two petitions seeking the arrest of these 11 individuals. The tribunal ordered authorities to arrest and produce Sheikh Hasina and the others before February 12, according to The Daily Star. related stories Last year, the tribunal issued arrest warrants against Sheikh Hasina and 45 others in connection with alleged crimes against humanity during the student-led agitation that culminated in her ouster, where over 500 people were killed. Hasina fled to India after fleeing from Dhaka and has been residing here since. Relations between India and Bangladesh have been in free fall since Hasinas ouster and the entry of Nobel laureate Muhammed Yunus as the countrys chief adviser, particularly over a surge of attacks on Hindu minorities. The interim government in Bangladesh has promised to extradite Hasina and even sent a diplomatic note to India over the matter. Hasina has reportedly been living in safehouses in India since August, while frequently shifting locations for safety depending on the advice of the government. The leader in political exile, however, has been continuing to issue occasional statements on Bangladeshs political situation through her party Awami League social media machinery or through her son Sajeeb Wazed. The Ministry of External Affairs, while acknowledging the receipt of the extradition request from Bangladesh, stated that the government had no comment to offer. A senior source in the ministry earlier told News18 that the government is likely to respond to the diplomatic note formally, in accordance with the diplomatic protocol. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In a televised address to the nation on his first 100 days in office, Yunus said that the interim government will try those responsible including the former PM for hundreds of deaths during the student-led uprising that ended her 15-year rule. We will seek the return of the fallen autocrat Sheikh Hasina from India," he said. Yunus said Hasinas role would be investigated not only in the deaths during the unrest but also in other violations of human rights, including alleged enforced disappearances while she was in power. Location : Dhaka, Bangladesh First Published: January 06, 2025, 13:55 IST 'Prison For Starmer': Elon Musk Takes Another Dig At British PM Over His Old Islamophobia Remark Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 13:46 IST Elon Musk has severely criticised Starmer for failing to prosecute perpetrators thousands of child sexual exploitation crimes during his tenure as Director of Public Prosecutions. Elon Musk has grown increasingly critical of the Keir Starmer-led UK government. (Reuters) Elon Musk, the worlds richest man, has been going after British Prime Minister Keir Starmer for the last few days now over a child sexual exploitation scandal that emerged during the latters tenure as Director of Public Prosecutions. The billionaire, who has been highly critical of Starmer including during anti-immigration riots that rocked England and Northern Irish cities last year, upped the ante against the PM over the Southport stabbing attack in July 2024 that left three children dead and sparked violence across the country. related stories A video of Starmer was shared where he condemned Islamophobia, saying it left people fearful and unsafe in their own country. The surge of Islamophobia is simply appalling. Muslim women and girls are disproportionately targeted, mosques forced to ramp up security and British Muslims questioned as if they are terrorists," he was heard saying. A user criticised Starmer for condemning Islamophobia while the three children were allegedly stabbed to death by a Muslim in England last year. Notably, the UK Police have already said that the suspect in the Southport stabbing attack was a British citizen who was originally from Rwanda. Sharing the users tweet, Musk wrote, Prison for Starmer." Over the last few days, the Tesla CEO has increasingly questioned Starmers silence on Pakistani rape gangs and even called for fresh elections in Britain. Prison for Starmer https://t.co/6RxIyGnYkG Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 6, 2025 What Happened In Southport? On July 29, a mass stabbing attack shook the UK outside a Taylor Swift-themed yoga and dance studio in Southport, UK. Three children Bebe King, 6, Elsie Dot Stancombe, 7, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, 9 were killed. The accused was identified as Axel Rudakubana, who was 17 at the time of the incident. Rudakubana is due to stand trial this month at the Liverpool crown court and faces charges of murder for the three children and 10 counts of attempted murder, along with possession of a knife, production of biological toxin ricin and possession of information likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing to commit an act of terrorism. The next day, far-rights protests engulfed England following a misinformation campaign alleging that the attacker was a radical Islamist immigrant who was known to intelligence services. Protests spread across the country, where shops were looted and mosques and Muslim-owned businesses were attacked. Videos of several ethnic minorities being beaten up also emerged on social media, culminating in the UKs worst social disorder in years with over 1,000 people arrested. Police were forced to divulge the identity of the attacker and said he was a British citizen who was originally from Rwanda. Musk Slams Starmer Over Rape Gangs Elon Musk has also criticised the British government over the Rotherham sex scandal, where a report revealed that despite being aware, police and child protection agencies failed to prosecute thousands of child sexual exploitation crimes occurring annually, primarily involving networks of Pakistani-origin men. Musk accused Starmer of failing to bring rape gangs" to justice when he was director of public prosecutions. Musk also suggested that Jess Phillips, minister for the prevention of violence against women and girls, deserves to be in prison" for refusing a request for a national public inquiry into the scandal. Senior British government minister Wes Streeting said Musks comments were misjudged and certainly misinformed" and that the government took child sexual exploitation incredibly seriously". top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all A series of official inquiries into how police and social workers failed to halt the abuse found that officials in some cases turned a blind eye to avoid appearing racist. (with agency inputs) Location : London, United Kingdom (UK) First Published: January 06, 2025, 12:35 IST Should US Liberate Britain: Musk, Starmer Clash Again Over Pakistani Child Abuse Gangs Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 18:19 IST Elon Musk has targeted UK PM Keir Starmer over his countrys response to the Rotherham, Oldham and Rochdale child sex abuse cases. Elon Musk ran a poll on social media site X (which he owns) asking users if the US should liberate the people of Britain. (IMAGE: REUTERS) Elon Musk has set his sights on key issues affecting Europeans and the English in recent days, with UK PM Keir Starmer being the latest target of his tirade. America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 6, 2025 related stories He even ran a poll on X asking users to vote if America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government?" An enraged Starmer slammed Musk on Monday by slamming those spreading lies". Those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible, theyre not interested in victims, theyre interested in themselves," Starmer told reporters, without naming Musk. Im prepared to call out this for what it is. Weve seen this playbook many times: the whipping up of intimidation and threats of violence, hoping that the media will amplify it. He also hit out at the poison of the far-right", referring to the UKs far-right politicians like Nigel Farage and right-wing figures like Tommy Robinson (who gained appreciation of the tech mogul). The decades-spanning grooming gangs scandal involved the widespread abuse of girls in northern English towns, including Rochdale, Rotherham and Oldham. A series of court cases eventually led to the conviction of dozens of men, mostly of Pakistani Muslim origin. The victims were vulnerable, mostly white, girls. Musks tirade, which included demands for a new public inquiry into the scandal, has prompted some UK opposition politicians to join in the criticism and calls for a fresh national probe. Starmer was deeply complicit in the mass rapes in exchange for votes. Thats what the inquiry would show," Musk said. He said that the UK PM, when he was the UKs top prosecutor almost a decade ago, ignored the pleas of vast numbers of little girls and their parents, in order to secure political support". Starmer is utterly despicable," he further added. Electoral Interference It was not just the UK PM who has been targeted over key issues affecting British society by Musk. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz was also among those who was slammed by the tech mogul following the Magdeburg Christmas market attack in December over immigration. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday accused the billionaire owner of social media platform X of intervening in elections, including Germanys snap legislative polls next month. Ten years ago, who could have imagined it if we had been told that the owner of one of the largest social networks in the world would support a new international reactionary movement and intervene directly in elections, including in Germany," Macron said in a speech to French ambassadors, while also saying US president-elect Donald Trump knows he has a strong ally in France". Location : London/Washington First Published: January 06, 2025, 18:19 IST Why Justin Trudeau Is Under Pressure To Resign As Liberal Party Leader | Exclusive Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: January 06, 2025, 14:59 IST According to analysts, Justin Trudeau is under pressure over the Liberal party's loss in Montreal and Toronto bypolls. Indian government sources say his Khalistani card did not work for him Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has been facing dissent within the party. (AP Image) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is facing trouble within his party as a group of dissatisfied Liberal MPs, reportedly around 20, signed a document calling for a change in leadership. Reports say Trudeau is likely to resign as the leader of The Liberal Party to save himself from the embarrassment at the Liberal National Caucus meet on Wednesday. However, he may continue as the interim PM until a new leader or leadership is elected. related stories According to analysts, the pressure on Trudeau is mounting due to various factors. One reason is the partys loss in bypolls in Montreal and Toronto. They say that the in-house displeasure over the policy decisions went against Trudeau. The results point to another possible struggle against the Conservatives in the upcoming elections. Trudeaus potential resignation has sparked speculation about the future of the Liberal Party and the possibility of an early election. Only 28% of the polls suggest that Trudeau will be re-elected. Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc is being considered as a potential interim leader. STRAIN IN INDIA-CANADA TIES According to top sources in the Indian government, Trudeau has been unpopular for a considerable period of time. Trudeaus allegations of Indias foreign interference", which although strongly refuted, led to a diplomatic strain between the two countries. India, meanwhile, accused Trudeau of using theatrics to divert attention from his domestic challenges. No leader in the world spoils a diplomatic relationship with a superpower without any reason. His Khalistani card is not playing well. They are opposing him right now. Instead of handling the economy and managing the new United States (US) administration, he was busy giving shelter to Khalistani terrorists such as Gurpatwant Singh Pannun and others," sources said. THE DISSENT WITHIN Trudeau swept to power in 2015 and led the Liberals to two more ballot box victories in 2019 and 2021. But he now trails his main rival, Conservative Pierre Poilievre, by 20 points in public opinion polls. Trudeau has suffered a series of blows in recent days, spurred by the surprise resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, who clashed with her boss over incoming US President Donald Trumps threats to impose 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian imports. Ottawa area MP Chandra Arya told public broadcaster CBC that dozens of Liberal MPs wanted Trudeau to go. Anthony Housefather, a Liberal member of parliament from the province of Quebec, recently told the CBC that the prime minister needs to go." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Trudeaus key ally New Democratic Partys (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh recently said he would introduce a motion to topple the minority Liberal government. With Agency Inputs First Published: January 06, 2025, 14:54 IST Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed decree No. 15/2025 on amendments to the Regulation on the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, which concern the self-representation of the General Staff in courts. According to the text of the decree, which was published on the website of the President of Ukraine on Monday, the innovations concern the self-representation of the General Staff in courts and determine the procedure for representing its interests. The new subclause 5 of clause 5 provides that the General Staff may provide self-representation in courts and other bodies through persons authorized to act on its behalf. This also includes the possibility of representation through officials of the structural unit of the General Staff who specialize in such functions. As reported, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine is the main body of military management for planning the defense of the state, strategic planning of the use of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and certain forces and means of other components of the defense forces, coordination and control over the implementation of tasks in the sphere of defense by executive authorities, local government bodies and defense forces within the limits determined by the laws of Ukraine, acts of the President and the Cabinet of Ministers. Her greatest fear, dormant for decades, came rushing back in an instant: Had she adopted and raised a kidnapped child? Peg Reif's daughter, adopted from South Korea in the 1980s, had sent her a link to a documentary detailing how the system that made their family was rife with fraud: documents falsified, babies switched, children snatched off the street and sent abroad. Reif wept. She was among more than 120 who contacted the AP this fall, after a series of stories and a documentary made with Frontline exposed how Korea created a baby pipeline, designed to ship children abroad to meet Western demand. "I can't stand the thought that somebody lost their child," Reif said. "I can't stop thinking about it. I don't know how to make it right. I don't know if I can." Reif's story: Forty years ago, as she struggled with infertility, Reif and her husband adopted two Korean children who weren't biological siblings, but both had strangely similar stories in their files: Their young unmarried mothers worked in factories with fathers who disappeared after they got pregnant. Wyoming has sold 640 acres of land to the federal government for $100 million after what the WyoFile calls "decades of political maneuvering." The Kelly Parcel has been owned by Wyoming since the state was established, but USA Today reports it became part of Grand Teton National Park in 1950. (Other outlets, however, including Cowboy State Daily, report that the parcel abuts the national park and that the sale adds the land to the park.) The sale follows years of discussions over what to do with the parcel, with the state's Board of Land Commissioners having previously considered putting it up for public auction, which would have meant private developers could have bought it. The sale to the federal government will prohibit private development on the land. (More Grand Teton National Park stories.) Thirty-two dolphins have died since fuel oil spilled out of two storm-stricken tankers three weeks ago in the Kerch Strait, which separates the Russia-occupied Crimean Peninsula from Russia's southern Krasnodar region, an animal rescue group said Sunday. Russia's Delfa Dolphin Rescue and Research Center said the deaths are "most likely related to the fuel oil spill." The center said on the messaging app Telegram that a total of 61 dead cetaceansan order of aquatic mammals that includes whales and dolphinshad been recorded since the emergency, but the condition of the bodies suggested that the 29 others had died before the spill, the AP reports. "Judging by the condition of the bodies, most likely the majority of these cetaceans died in the first 10 days after the disaster. And now the sea continues to wash them up," the center wrote, noting that most of the dead dolphins were from the endangered Azov species. Russia's Emergencies Ministry said Sunday that over 96,000 tons of contaminated sand and soil had been removed by officials and volunteers along the shoreline of the Krasnodar region's Anapa and Temryuk districts. Russian President Vladimir Putin has called the oil spill an "ecological disaster." An adviser to Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky made a similar statement last month, and called for additional sanctions on Russian tankers. (More dolphins stories.) New York's new toll for drivers entering the center of Manhattan debuted Sunday, reports the AP , meaning many people will pay $9 to access the busiest part of the Big Apple during peak hours. The congestion pricing is meant to reduce traffic in the city while also raising money to fix its ailing public-transit infrastructure. Most drivers will pay $9 to enter Manhattan south of Central Park on weekdays between 5am and 9pm, and on weekends between 9am and 9pm. During off-hours, the toll will be $2.25 for most vehicles. After years of studies, delays, and a last-ditch bid by New Jersey to halt the toll, the program launched without major hiccups early Sunday. "This is a toll system that has never been tried before in terms of complexity," Metropolitan Transportation Authority Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said Sunday. "We don't expect New Yorkers to overnight change their behavior." The feewhich varies for motorcyclists, truck drivers, and ride-share appswill be collected by electronic toll-collection systems at more than 100 detection sites now scattered across the lower half of Manhattan. It comes on top of tolls that drivers already pay for crossing various bridges and tunnels to get to the city, although there will be a credit of up to $3. Many motorists appeared unaware that the newly activated cameras would soon send a new charge to their E-ZPasses. "Are you kidding me?" said Chris Smith, a real estate agent from New Jersey. Some local residents and transit riders, meanwhile, were hopeful the program would lessen the bottlenecks and honking. "I think the idea would be good to try to minimize the amount of traffic ... and try to promote ... public transportation," said Phil Bauer, a surgeon who lives in Midtown Manhattan, describing the constant din of traffic as "pretty brutal." story continues below President-elect Trump, whose Trump Tower is in the toll zone, has vowed to kill the program, saying it "will put New York City at a disadvantage over competing cities and states, and businesses will flee." Lieber wasn't overly concerned Trump would unwind the program. "I think he understands living on 59th and 5th Avenue what traffic is doing to our city," Lieber said. (More congestion pricing stories.) What was meant to be a bonding experience between human and beast turned into tragedy last week at a wildlife sanctuary in Thailand. People reports that Spanish tourist Blanca Ojanguren Garcia, 22, was with her boyfriend on Friday at Koh Yao Elephant Care in the province of Phang Nga, bathing one of the elephants, when the animal suddenly killed her. Although some media reports said that Garcia was gored to death, El Mundo notes that the elephant's tusks weren't involved, and Spanish news agency EFE confirms there was no goring, per the Daily Mail . Instead, the elephant, a 50-year-old female, appeared to have landed a fatal blow with its trunk, per El Mundo, citing local police. Garcia, who was living in Taiwan as an exchange student and visiting Thailand with her boyfriend, was rushed to a hospital after the attack and died there. None of the eight other tourists and 10 staff members present were injured. The owner, however, confirms to the paper that the elephant center closed after the incident, with no known reopening date. Experts tell Spanish-language newspaper Clarin that the elephant may have been stressed at having to mingle with humans outside its natural habitat, per the BBC. Animal activists have long decried "elephant care" packages like those at Koh Yao Elephant Care, where, for between $55 and $85, visitors can prepare food for, feed, and bathe the elephants. Arrangements to repatriate Garcia's body are in the works. The law faculty at Spain's University of Navarra, where Garcia attended school for law and international relations, expressed their condolences online. "We share the grief of her family and ask for prayers for her soul," they wrote on X. (More elephants stories.) Over five months of the Kursk operation, the enemy's losses amounted to over 38,000 soldiers, of which about 15,000 were killed in this direction, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. "The second is the Kursk operation. Today is exactly five months since the beginning of our actions in Kursk region, and we are maintaining a buffer zone on Russian territory, actively destroying Russian military potential there. During the Kursk operation, the enemy has already lost more than 38,000 of its soldiers only in this one axis, of which about 15,000 irretrievably," Zelenskyy said in an evening video address on Monday. The president recalled that Russia had transferred its strong units to Kursk region, and soldiers from North Korea were also involved there. "It is important that the occupier cannot now direct all of this force to our other directions, in particular to Donetsk region, in particular against Sumy, in particular to Kharkiv region or Zaporizhia," the head of state said. He thanked all the soldiers who are bringing the war home to Russia and giving more security and strength to Ukraine. With just two weeks before he hands the keys to the White House to Donald Trump, President Biden is taking some last-minute steps to push back on climate change, including a new ban on offshore oil and gas drilling in most federal waters, reports the BBC . The move made under 1953's Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act will cover more than 625 million acres of water off the entire Atlantic coast, as well as off the eastern Gulf of Mexico, a portion of the Bering Sea off of Alaska, and the Pacific coast off of California, Oregon, and Washington. "My decision reflects what coastal communities, businesses, and beachgoers have known for a long time: that drilling off these coasts could cause irreversible damage to places we hold dear and is unnecessary to meet our nation's energy needs," Biden said in a statement. "It is not worth the risks." The AP notes that the directive wouldn't apply to big portions of the Gulf of Mexico, where most of the United States' offshore drilling happens, but it would shield other large sections of the nation's coastline from future drilling. NBC News notes that this ban would mean Biden has protected 670 million ocean acres in totalthe most of any US president. Conservation activists are pleased. "This is an epic ocean victory. Our treasured coastal communities are now safeguarded for future generations," a rep from the Oceana nonprofit tells the BBC. Unsurprisingly, the oil and gas industry isn't happy, and neither are members of Team Trump, as the incoming president is almost certain to try to overturn whatever Biden puts into place. Karoline Leavitt, Trump's press secretary pick, called Biden's move a "disgraceful decision" that was "designed to exact political revenge on the American people who gave President Trump a mandate to increase drilling and lower gas prices." story continues below CNN notes that it won't be terribly easy for Trump to do a 180 on Biden's mandate, however. The ban has no expiration dateand the law under the OCSLA doesn't allow presidents to overturn previous bans, per a 2019 court decision. That doesn't mean Trump won't try, however, even perhaps taking it all the way up to the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, Trump himself banned drilling in certain offshore waters during his first term in office, though his more recent pledges focus on making the US No. 1 in "energy dominance." (More offshore drilling stories.) As America prepares to welcome a new leader, reports indicate Canada will soon need to do the same. The Globe and Mail first reported that Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to announce that he will step down as leader of Canada's ruling Liberal Party as soon as Monday and by Wednesday, when an emergency meeting of Liberal legislators is scheduled. A source describes that outcome as "increasingly likely" to Reuters though the source says Trudeau has not made a final decision. More: A missing Indian journalist and YouTuber well known for his reports on corruption within the construction industry was found dead on Friday, his body discovered in a septic tank in Bijapur. The Guardian reports on the death of Mukesh Chandrakar, said to be 32 or 33, who was reported missing by his family on New Year's Day. Police say the septic tank where Chandrakar's body was found was on the property of a construction contractor named Suresh Chandrakar, who the BBC notes is a relative of Mukesh Chandrakar. According to local cops, the septic tank had been covered in newly positioned concrete slabs. Police, who found the body after tracking Mukesh Chandrakar's phone, also say there was evidence of blunt force trauma on his body, suggesting foul play, and that they believe his death may be tied to reporting he'd done on a recent alleged road-construction scam. The Hindu reports that Suresh Chandrakar, the police's main suspect in the reporter's apparent murder, was arrested Sunday night in Hyderabad after a couple of days on the run. Three others, including two of Suresh Chandrakar's siblings, were also arrested. Now, Indian journalists and media watchdogs are demanding an investigation into Mukesh Chandrakar's death, with the head of the Bastar Journalist Association calling it a "dark chapter," per the Guardian. They're also asking for police and the government to offer more safety measures for reporters who are working on possibly risky assignments. According to Reporters Without Borders, nearly 30 journalists in India have been killed over the past 10 years or so due to their reporting. (More journalists killed stories.) President Biden on Sunday gave a financial boost to more than 2.5 million retired Americansformer teachers, firefighters, and police officers among them. CNBC reports he signed the Social Security Fairness Act, a piece of bipartisan legislation that repealed a pair of decades-old provisions that impacted public employees who got retirement payments from other sources. It will translate into an estimated average of $360 per month increase in Social Security benefits for most of those affected. More: The provisions: The Windfall Elimination Provision, or WEP, pared down Social Security benefits for the estimated 2.1 million people who get pension or disability benefits from employment where Social Security payroll taxes were not withheld. The Government Pension Offset, or GPO, reduces Social Security benefits for an estimated 750,000 spouses, widows, and widowers who also get income from their own government pensions. The increase will be larger for the GPO group, at between an estimated $700 and $1,190 a month. In total, about 4% of all Social Security beneficiaries are impacted by the changes. Nippon Steel and US Steel filed a federal lawsuit challenging a Biden administration decision to block Nippon's proposed $15 billion acquisition of the Pittsburgh company and said that the head of United Steelworkers union and a rival steelmaker worked together to scuttle the deal. Biden said Friday that US companies producing a large amount of steel need to "keep leading the fight on behalf of America's national interests," though Japan, where Nippon is based, is a strong ally. In separate lawsuits filed Monday in the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia and the US District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, the steelmakers allege that it was a political decision made by the Biden administration that had no rational legal basis, reports the AP. A favorite seasonal food has once again turned deadly in Japan. Traditional mochi rice cakes are eaten around New Year's, and there is nearly always a surge in choking deaths, largely among the elderly. In Tokyo alone, nine people were hospitalized and two died in the first few days of the year after choking on the sticky, chewy rice cakes, Japan Today reports. Emily Anderson, a curator at the Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles, says New Year's Day is the most important holiday of the year, and the rice cakes are a key part of it. "Eating mochi is a really important part of the most important family-oriented day," she says, per CBS News. We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription. The Public Safety Report is compiled from criminal complaints filed in state and federal courts, as well as some police blotter information, trooper dispatches, fire department reports and interviews with public safety officials. Individuals named as arrested and/or charged with crimes in this report are presumed innocent until proved guilty in a court of law. Some events shake even the most hardened observer. Levon Ter-Petrosyan's infamous speech from July 23, 1993, is one of those momentsa stark and unforgiving indictment of modern Armenia's foundations. Delivered just days after the occupation of Aghdam, his words arent just echoes of the past; they are a jarring reminder of the dark underbelly of statecraft cloaked in nationalist fervor. A Blood-Soaked Blueprint for Nationhood Ter-Petrosyan didnt mince words, and what he admitted then was more than a political confessionit was a chilling manifesto. He laid bare the true agenda behind Armenias so-called liberation struggle, declaring that the ultimate goal was the establishment of an ethnically pure state. We cleansed Armenia and Artsakh of representatives of other peoples... This is a 600-year-old problem that we have solved, he stated with brazen candor. These are not the words of a leader striving for coexistence or peace. They are the language of calculated destruction. The expulsion of 170,000 Azerbaijanis from their ancestral lands in Vardenis, Masis, Amasia, and Zangezur wasnt collateral damageit was the plan. Entire communities wiped off the map, homes abandoned under duress, and lives shatteredall in service of a mono-ethnic ideal. Ethnic Cleansing as National Policy Perhaps most chilling is the cold rationalization Ter-Petrosyan offered. He framed the forced deportation as an act of survival, a grim necessity to secure Armenias future. If 170,000 representatives of other peoples had remained in Armenia, our state would not have been able to protect its regions, he argued, reducing human lives to mere logistical hurdles. For Armenias first president, ethnic cleansing wasnt a crime; it was a strategy. Even more grotesque was his justification for the plight of Azerbaijanis in Armenia: If the movement hadnt started in time, 500,000 Armenians in Azerbaijan would have been taken hostage. By this twisted logic, entire populations became pawns in a cruel game, their suffering rationalized as the inevitable cost of national self-determination. The Strategy of Prolonged Suffering Ter-Petrosyan didnt stop there. He openly admitted to a calculated approach in the Karabakh conflict, one that aimed to freeze the war, consolidate gains, and use time as a weapon. The main task is to stop the war, ensure lasting peace, and then begin negotiations, which may take 2030 years, he said. This was no roadmap for resolution; it was a blueprint for indefinite occupation, a cynical ploy to buy time while solidifying Armenias hold on stolen lands. An Enduring Legacy of Cruelty Fast forward three decades, and Ter-Petrosyans words remain a haunting testament to the brutality underpinning modern Armenian statehood. His confession wasnt just a moment of historical candor; it was a mirror reflecting the systematic violence and propaganda that continue to shape Armenias political narrative. To this day, the consequences of this ideology reverberate. Efforts to whitewash ethnic cleansing as liberation persist. Nationalist rhetoric masks the atrocities of the past, while any calls for accountability are met with denial and deflection. Armenias refusal to confront its history of violence ensures that the wounds of the past remain open, festering with every passing year. The Price of Denial The question now is whether the Armenian leadershipand its peopleare willing to face the truth. Without acknowledgment, there can be no atonement, no reconciliation. A nation built on bloodshed and lies cannot sustain itself indefinitely. The weight of history will catch up, and the cost of denial will be heavy. Ter-Petrosyans chilling words stand as a warning to the world: when cruelty becomes policy and cynicism guides strategy, peace becomes an impossible dream. Armenia must decide whether to continue down this dark path or finally confront the ghosts of its past. The choice is theirsbut the consequences will be felt far beyond their borders. History as a Judge: Lessons from the Past and the Reckoning of Justice Time has a way of peeling back layers of rhetoric, exposing hidden truths, and holding the powerful to account. Decades may pass, but historys judgment is unyielding. For Azerbaijan, the liberation of occupied territories, the peaceful return of villages in the Gazakh region, and President Ilham Aliyevs unwavering commitment to the right of displaced persons to return home represent far more than political milestonesthey are triumphs of justice. They offer a beacon of hope for millions who endured untold suffering. Against this backdrop, the words of Armenias first president, Levon Ter-Petrosyan, ring like a somber echo from a past steeped in cruelty and cynicism. His 1993 confession unveiled the true goals of Armenias leadershipnot democracy, not coexistence, but the ruthless pursuit of ethnic cleansing to realize a monoethnic utopia under the guise of a national liberation movement. The Monoethnic Dream: A Nightmare in Disguise Ter-Petrosyans admissions were as brazen as they were horrifying. His assertion that Armenias survival depended on the expulsion of Azerbaijanis stripped away any facade of moral justification. We cleansed Armenia and Artsakh, he declared unapologetically, reducing the violent uprooting of communities to a cold, calculated policy decision. These werent abstract actions; they were deliberate and brutal. Azerbaijani families, whose roots ran deep in regions like Vardenis, Masis, and Zangezur, were uprooted, their homes reduced to ruins, their lives shattered. This was not a spontaneous consequence of warit was state-sponsored erasure. The dream of a monoethnic Armenia was not a path to prosperity but a march toward disaster. The foundation of this vision rested on the ashes of destroyed communities and violated principles, not just of international law but of basic human decency. The Illusion of Victory What Armenias leaders presented as triumphliberation and heroismquickly devolved into tragedy. The cost of ethnic cleansing was borne not just by the victims but by Armenia itself. Instead of the vibrant, thriving state they envisioned, Armenia plunged into social and economic despair. Emigration soared, human capital drained away, and poverty tightened its grip on a fractured society. Karabakh, intended as the jewel in the crown of this vision, became a quagmire. For decades, it remained an epicenter of conflict, its promise tarnished by the blood spilled to claim it. Now, as these lands return to Azerbaijani control, the folly of such a strategy is painfully clear. Ethnic cleansing was not only morally indefensibleit was strategically shortsighted, a policy that destroyed futures on both sides of the conflict. The Deafening Silence of the West Perhaps the most bitter irony lies in the responseor lack thereoffrom those who claim to champion human rights. Ter-Petrosyans rhetoric, echoing some of the darkest chapters of 20th-century Europe, should have drawn universal condemnation. Instead, it was met with silence. Genocide, mass deportations, and the calculated destruction of entire communities were brushed aside as an internal matter. Western powers, so quick to preach the sanctity of minority rights and human dignity, turned a blind eye. Their selective outrage, dictated by geopolitical interests and expediency, stands as an indictment of their moral inconsistency. But time doesnt forget. The archives are unsealed, the confessions replayed, and the truth emerges from the shadows. Justice Restored, Lessons for the Future The message of history is unambiguous: injustice, no matter how entrenched, is destined to crumble under the weight of truth. Today, as Karabakh reintegrates into Azerbaijan and displaced families prepare to reclaim their homes, we are witnessing more than a geopolitical shiftwe are seeing justice restored. For Armenia, the reckoning is unavoidable. The nation remains mired in the consequences of its choicesa demographic crisis, economic stagnation, and diminished global standing. Ter-Petrosyan may have exited the political stage, but the legacy of his policies looms large, a testament to the destructive power of hatred and exclusion. Yet there is hope in these lessons. The future belongs not to those who erect walls of division but to those who build bridges of understanding. Azerbaijans steadfast commitment to justice, the rule of law, and coexistence offers a powerful counter-narrative to the cynicism of the past. History is a stern judge, but it also offers redemption for those willing to learn from its verdicts. The question now is whether Armenia will face its past with honesty or continue down a path of denial. The answer will determine not only its future but the prospects for lasting peace in the region. Bakunetwork TDT | Manama Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com A Bahraini father has taken the fight to international authorities, involving Interpol after his Latin American wife fled abroad with their five-yearold son, ignoring court orders to return to Bahrain. A Sharia court ruled that custody of the child must remain in Bahrain, warning that the mother would lose custody if she failed to comply. The couple married in 2014 and have a son who holds Bahraini citizenship. According to the fathers lawyer, Taqi Hussain, the wife, a national of a Latin American country, regularly travelled back to her homeland with her family. However, during her most recent trip, she refused to return, instead demanding a divorce and asking her husband to disown their son. The mother further requested the renewal of her Bahraini driving licence, claiming she needed it to stay abroad, and asked for a divorce certificate so she could remarry. In her home country, she remains legally registered as married, which prevents her from entering into a new marriage. The court backed the fathers case, stating that custody is intended to ensure a childs upbringing in their home environment and cannot be exercised abroad without the fathers approval. The judge ruled that the mother must return to Bahrain with the child. Should she refuse, custody will be transferred to the father. The court also noted that the mothers decision to cut ties and stay abroad made it nearly impossible for the father to monitor his sons wellbeing. Lawyer Taqi Hussain confirmed that his client had sought help from the authorities to secure the childs return. TDT | Manama Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of Bahrain, welcomed the family of the late Dr. Suleiman Al-Dajani, Jordans first ambassador to Bahrain, at Al-Safriya Palace. The family expressed their deep gratitude for His Majestys heartfelt condolences and unwavering support following their loss. During the meeting, King Hamad commended Dr. Al-Dajanis instrumental role in fostering strong ties between Bahrain and Jordan. As the first Jordanian ambassador to Bahrain, Dr. Al-Dajani significantly contributed to the establishment of enduring relations between the two nations and maintained close friendships with Bahraini figures even after his tenure. His Majesty remembered Dr. Al-Dajani as a dedicated and exemplary diplomat, praising his virtues and devotion to serving Jordan. The King offered prayers for Almighty Allah to grant the late ambassador eternal peace and solace for his family. The family of Dr. Al-Dajani expressed their sincere appreciation for His Majestys compassionate words and support, underscoring the profound respect and friendship he extended to the late diplomat. They also highlighted the strong and historic ties between Bahrain and Jordan, offering prayers for the Kings continued health and well-being. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 6. Over the past few days, units of the Armenian armed forces have repeatedly shelled the positions of the Azerbaijani Army, and all these cases were recorded accordingly, the Ministry of Defense of Azerbaijan said in a satement, Trend reports. To note, on January 5, from 22:00 to 22:10, the Armenian armed forces units from positions located in the directions of Digh and Khanazakh settlements of the Gorus region using small arms periodically subjected to fire the Azerbaijan Army positions stationed in the directions of Zabukh and Jaghazur settlements of the Lachin region. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 6. The trial of Armenian war criminals detained in Azerbaijans Baku will begin with a preparatory court hearing scheduled for January 17, Trend reports. The indictment in the criminal case was approved by the Prosecutor General of the Republic of Azerbaijan on December 16 and forwarded to the Baku Military Court for substantive review. The case has been assigned to the Baku Military Court under the presiding judge, Chairman of the Court Zeynal Aghayev. The press service of the Prosecutor Generals Office of Azerbaijan has announced a criminal case concerning illegal activities perpetrated against the Republic of Azerbaijan by the so-called entity known as "NKR" and its illegitimate armed groups, established by the Republic of Armenia in the occupied territories of Azerbaijan with the complete backing of Armenia and its military forces, has been submitted to the court. The Investigative Department of the Prosecutor General's Office of Azerbaijan conducted an investigation, according to the statement, into acts of aggression against the Republic of Azerbaijan and its people, occupation, genocide, other crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, terrorism, and financing of terrorism, among other numerous crimes. On May 2, 2024, the Prosecutor General of the Republic of Azerbaijan decided to consolidate 1,389 criminal cases, investigated by the Prosecutor General's Office and various investigative bodies of the Republic. These cases, related to crimes committed between October 1987 and April 22, 2024, were merged into a single proceeding. The investigation was carried out by the investigative teams of the State Security Service, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the State Customs Committee, and the Military Prosecutor's Office, all under the leadership of the Prosecutor General's Office of Azerbaijan. Based on the collected credible evidence, 15 individuals have been charged for crimes committed by the armed forces of the Republic of Armenia and illegal armed formations in a total of 2,548 incidents. The accused are Ghukasyan Arkady Arshaviri (Arshavirovich), Harutyunyan Arayik Vladimiri (Vladimirovich), Sahakyan Bako Sahaki, Ishkhanyan Davit Rubeni, Babayan Davit Klimi (Klimovich), Mnatsakanyan Leva Genrikhi, Manukyan Davit Azati, Martirosyan Garik Grigori, Pashayan Melikset Vladimiri, Allahverdyan Davit Nelsoni, Stepanyan Gurgen Gomerosi, Balayan Levon Romiki, Babayan Madat Arakeli (Arakelovich), Beglaryan Vasili Ivani, and Ghazaryan Erik Roberti. They face charges under several articles of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, based on the periods of their involvement in criminal acts. The charges include crimes such as planning, preparation, initiation, or waging an aggressive war (Article 100); attacks on internationally protected persons or institutions (Article 102); genocide (Article 103); destruction of population (Article 105); slavery (Article 106); deportation or forcible transfer of population (Article 107); persecution (Article 109); forcible detention (Article 110); deprivation of liberty contrary to international law (Article 112); use of torture (Article 113); mercenarism (Article 114); violations of laws or customs of war (Article 115); violations of international humanitarian law during armed conflict (Article 116); war theft (Article 118); willful killing (Article 120); illegal entrepreneurship (Article 192); terrorism (Article 214); financing of terrorism (Article 214-1); organization of a criminal association (Article 218); illegal acquisition, transfer, sale, storage, transportation, or possession of firearms, ammunition, explosives, and explosive devices (Article 228); acts threatening aviation security (Article 270-1); attempts on the life of a statesman or public figure (Article 277); violent seizure or retention of power, violent change of the constitutional order (Article 278); and the creation of unauthorized armed formations or groups (Article 279), among other offenses. Each of the accused has been granted legal protection, including the right to use a language they understand, as well as all other procedural rights. A lawyer has been appointed for each of the accused. In response to a petition from the investigative body and the request of the prosecutor overseeing the preliminary investigation, the court has issued decisions to impose preventive detention on the accused. The petitions and complaints filed by the accused during and after the preliminary investigation were reviewed per criminal procedure laws, and appropriate decisions were made. The accused and other participants in the criminal process have been informed of the completion of the preliminary investigation and have been provided access to all materials related to the case. The criminal case against other individuals accused of committing various crimes has also been separated into a distinct proceeding, and the preliminary investigation is still ongoing. The Prosecutor Generals Office of the Republic of Azerbaijan has called on the relevant authorities in the Republic of Armenia to cooperate, citing strong evidence, such as the presence of numerous individuals suspected of involvement in the incidents under investigation and potential witnesses located in Armenia. The indictment in this criminal case was approved by the Prosecutor General of the Republic of Azerbaijan on December 16, 2024, and has been forwarded to the Baku Military Court for further proceedings. Firefighters battled a two-alarm fire that erupted Monday in Atlantic City and involved a commercial building and two homes that had to be evacuated, the fire chief said Eight people living on Ruffu Terrace were left homeless and are being aided by the Red Cross, fire officials said. The fire on Atlantic Avenue, between Georgia and Mississippi avenues, was reported at 6:43 a.m. and took an hour to bring under control, Fire Chief Scott Evans said. He said 35 firefighters responded but were hampered by snow, ice and sparking electrical wires. Firefighters had limited access because the exterior fire was directly under live electrical lined that had burned and were sparking, Evans said. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. Stephanie Loder may be reached at SLoder@njadvancemedia.com. A man died following a fast-moving, 2-alarm fire Sunday night in a home in Bergen County, authorities said Monday. A neighbor reported smoke billowing from the house on Birchwood Road about 9:15 p.m., according to police. A version of this story was originally published on Feb. 13, 2024. Dozens of South Jersey schools are closed Monday due to a snowstorm, but switching to remote learning for the day is not an option. While learning from home was allowed in New Jersey during the COVID-19 pandemic via an executive order from Gov. Phil Murphy, state law continues to prevent school districts from making the switch on days when snow or other factors prompt schools to close. In some other states, the rules are different. New York City began allowing remote learning on snow days last winter. The district is sticking with remote snow days at least the 2024-25 school year despite problems with logging into the remote platform some teachers and parents faced when it debuted last February. At least for this year, I can tell you that if you have a snow day, it will be a remote day, New York City Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos said in November, according to the New York Post. Under New Jersey law, public school students must be in classrooms for the day to be counted toward the minimum 180 days of instruction that are required in New Jersey. The law carves out an exception that was used during the pandemic. Remote learning may be offered when schools are closed more than three consecutive school days due to a declared state of emergency, or public health emergency, the state education department previously said. However, that scenario does not cover the short-term inconvenience of a one-day snowstorm. Some educators have sought for years, even prior to the pandemic, to loosen the restrictions. Efforts to change New Jerseys law date back to at least 2015, when the Bergen County Association of School Administrators first endorsed learning from home as an option. In 2016 and 2018, then-state Assemblywoman Valerie Vainieri Huttle, D-Bergen, introduced legislation that would permit up to three days of virtual instruction when schools close due to weather or other emergencies. Neither bill came up for a vote. A similar bill was introduced last session, and again Jan. 9. It would allow virtual or remote instruction when the school is required to close for one or more school days due to inclement weather or hazardous transportation conditions, or due to other certain emergencies. It would need to be passed by both houses of the state Legislature and signed by the governor to become law. Richard Bozza, executive director of the New Jersey Association of School Administrators, voiced support last year for allowing remote learning when it snows. Its hard to understand, post-pandemic, why this hasnt moved. It makes absolutely perfect sense, Bozza told NJ Advance Media last winter. Allowing remote learning would also let schools continue teaching when they have problems unrelated to weather, such as a malfunctioning boiler, he said. Having schools offer remote classes for a day or two during extreme weather is unlikely to contribute to the widespread learning loss many students experienced when taking virtual classes for long periods during the pandemic, Bozza said. Were talking about isolated cases. Were not talking about doing it weeks or months, Bozza said. We went essentially two years with remote learning during the pandemic. We learned how to accomplish it, he added. To suggest that we shouldnt have this opportunity, by not passing this law, is antiquated. The states largest teachers union, the New Jersey Education Association, said last winter it had not taken a position on changing the law to allow remote learning on snow days. NJEA officials did not immediately respond to a request to comment Monday. Murphy has declared a state of emergency for Monday in the seven southern New Jersey counties expected to be hardest hit by the winter storm. Up to eight to 12 inches of snow is forecast for nearly all of Cape May County, according to the the National Weather Service. Atlantic, Cumberland and Salem counties are forecast for six to eight inches of snow, with two to six inches expected in Burlington, Camden, Gloucester and Ocean counties. North Jersey counties will likely get just a dusting of snow and one to two inches are forecast in Central Jersey. Please subscribe now and support the local journalism you rely on and trust. Rob Jennings may be reached at rjennings@njadvancemedia.com. At its recent Board of Commissioners meeting, the Township of North Bergen joined in honoring Samantha Lugo, a guidance counselor at North Bergen High School, for her role in advancing community health, youth engagement and volunteerism. For her efforts, Lugo was awarded the 2024 W. Cary Edwards Statewide Volunteer of the Year Award. The bald eagle and the osprey were removed from New Jerseys list of endangered species on Monday, an action reflecting more than four decades of conservation work by biologists and volunteers, according to state officials. Both birds were moved from the endangered species list to the states more generalized nongame species list. The bald eagles status on the latter list remains of special concern, while the osprey has gone from threatened to secure-stable, the Department of Environmental Protection said in a news release. Department officials have worked for years with an army of volunteers, as well as conservationists from non-profit organizations like the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey, to coordinate conservation efforts. A nest watching program organized as part of the departments Bald Eagle Project now boasts more than 150 people. Professional and volunteer conservationists have also worked to nurture hatchlings and educate the public about the importance of sustaining wildlife diversity, department officials previously said. Half a century ago, New Jerseys bald eagle population had dwindled down to just a single breeding pair located in a remote swath of Cumberland County. The population had been devastated by habitat degradation and human threat, particularly from the impact of DDT, a synthetic insecticide banned by the federal government in 1972. Recovery efforts had begun by the early 1980s, with eagles reintroduced to New Jersey from Canada. Artificial incubation and fostering efforts also began in earnest, and the population began to grow. In 2012, there were 119 active nests throughout the state, the first time in decades that more than 100 had been recorded. A decade later, the total had more than doubled to 250. In 2024, the state had a record of 293 nesting pairs, of which 264 of which laid eggs, the Department of Environmental Protection said Monday. The osprey population was also ravaged by the use of DDT, with the number of nests in New Jersey having fallen to around 50 by the early 1970s. A concerted recovery effort in which state biologists moved young birds and eggs from nests less impacted by DDT to nests that had failed to produce young meant that by 2023 a record 800 occupied osprey nests were documented. The bald eagle is also under federal protection, with their nests and roosting areas regulated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. The federal government removed the bald eagle from its endangered species list in 2007. Native bird nests are protected in New Jersey under the Endangered and Nongame Species Conservation Act and nationwide by the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act, regardless of their conservation status at the state level. The bald eagle and ospreys delisting was hailed by Shawn M. LaTourette, the departments commissioner, as a significant milestone in New Jerseys history of species conservation. Even with this tremendous success, we will remain vigilant in our monitoring and protection of these species to ensure they continue to thrive in New Jersey, he added. Still, despite the triumph of the bald eagle and osprey projects, state wildlife conservation is an ongoing and uphill battle, environmental officials said. We do have more work to do and continue to face challenges, as evidenced by the addition of 30 species to the states endangered species list, said Kathy Clark, who leads the Endangered and Nongame Species Program. These species include one type of bee, 11 butterflies, four fish, three reptiles, five birds (breeding population), two birds (non-breeding population), and four mammals. A further 18 species were upgraded to the special concern category, including one fairy shrimp, nine butterflies, six fish, one reptile, and one bird (non-breeding population). But with so many dedicated people and strong legislation in place, Clark went on, I am confident we will continue to protect our remarkable diversity of wildlife. Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. A group of campsites at a campground near the Jersey Shore were destroyed by a fire that began Sunday afternoon and burned past sunset. The fire, stoked by propane tanks, damaged multiple campsites at Sun Retreats Seashore, a campground with sites for recreational vehicles and tent camping in Lower Township in Cape May County. Its located between Cape May and the Wildwoods off Route 9. Firefighters arrived at the campground to find strong flames burning across several mobile homes, the Erma Fire Department said Monday. The fire sent thick, grayish smoke high enough to be seen for several miles. Crews used seven hand lines to extinguish the blaze and requested additional support, firefighters said. Several firefighters continued to douse burning areas of the campground into the early evening. Photos shared by the fire company show flames burning through sections of one mobile home. Another mobile home was completely engulfed in flames in another. It was unclear how long it took firefighters to extinguish the blaze, if injuries were reported or whether anyone was occupying the mobile homes during a mostly quiet offseason near the shore. The fire is being investigated by township officials and the Cape May County Fire Marshals Office. An email to the campground from NJ Advance Media for comment was not immediately returned on Monday. Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription. Eric Conklin may be reached at econklin@njadvancemedia.com. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 6. Regional Director for Europe of the World Health Organization (WHO) Hans Henri P. Kluge has sent a letter of condolences to President Ilham Aliyev over the deaths and injuries caused by the crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines plane near Aktau on December 25 last year, Trend reports. "Your Excellency, I am deeply saddened to hear of the tragic loss of life due to the plane crash on 25 December. I would like to express my deepest sympathy to Your Excellency, and to the bereaved countrymen and families who have lost loved ones. Please accept my deepest condolences for this most grievous loss of life. My thoughts are with the Azerbaijani people. I pray that the survivors make a speedy and full recovery from their injuries. I mourn alongside you and the citizens of Azerbaijan. Please accept, Mr. President, the assurances of my highest consideration," the letter reads. Thank you for printing the recent front-page article, Most N.J. towns, cities dont add fluoride to (drinking) water, to help reduce tooth decay. I have practiced general dentistry for 50 years, mainly in East Hanover. I am a witness that the addition of fluoride in municipal water supplies has lessened tooth decay in this country markedly. All ethical dentists and authentic scientific organizations recommend the adjustment of the amount of fluoride in water supplies. This is a naturally occurring mineral in drinking water sources. Fluoride is found in ground water and is just one of dozens of other minerals, such as sodium and iron, commonly found there. Sadly, New Jersey has archaic home rule laws that allow local municipalities to decide on this issue. It is the reason why only 16% of New Jerseys population has access to drinking water that contains sufficient fluoride to benefit teeth, a rate lower than any state except Hawaii, according to recent surveys. The national average is 73%. Privately-owned water companies say they do not add fluoride unless a particular town they serve demands it. So, why shouldnt we expect that every governing body in the state would adhere to what more than 75 years of favorable scientific evidence haa proven? Proposed state laws that would require fluoridation in public water systems statewide have never passed the Legislature. New Jersey must give up this home-rule nonsense and let the state mandate fluoridation throughout our communities. Dr. John J. Graeber, DMD, Boonton Township Why Democrats keep losing Regarding the most recent Friendly Fire opinion-page feature: Wow! Did Democratic strategist Julie Roginsky ever demonstrate why her party has lost the American people. The last sentence from her in the column, commenting on how she thinks Americans can return good government, is, This means that (congressional) Democrats should not deliver one vote to help Trump succeed. I hope that every American realizes that if President-elect Donald Trump succeeds, the entire country succeeds. Rosinskys statement sounds anti-American, and tells me that she would rather see America have another four under-achieving years, like the four years now ending under Democratic President Joe Biden. You may not like Trump, but you should love America. Don Montefusco, Maplewood Why newspapers keep folding In the recent Star-Ledger editorial, A dark hour for the press and for democracy, you lament the dramatic loss of not only print newspapers, but journalism jobs as well. This is compounded, the editorial states, by the return of Donald Trump, whose animus towards the press is well documented. It will make things worse, you state, that there are also right-wing efforts abound to torpedo press protections and libel laws. However, this has not occurred in a vacuum. There is a reason that Gallup recently reported that trust in the media has fallen to 31% from 70% about 50 years ago. Unbiased reporting of news has virtually disappeared; instead, there has been a tidal shift to advocacy journalism, in my view, almost exclusively for Democratic Party positions. Even more ominous, those who dont goose-step to that narrative are shunned, fired and canceled. Readers have noticed and responded in kind to the Star-Ledger by canceling you. Michael Pickert, Livingston Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com The Star-Ledger/NJ.com encourages submissions of opinion. Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow us on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and on Facebook at NJ.com Opinion. Get the latest news updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. For more than two decades two decades! a preschool has sat on stolen Hudson County public parkland while local officials offer truth-challenged excuses and the state officials who should protect against such thievery drag their feet. Those same state officials can be the heroes, though, as were now at a critical juncture when they can reject North Bergens application to make the allegedly temporary campus permanent through a plan to replace 17 aging trailer-classrooms with a school building. As reported by Managing Editor Ron Zeitlinger in The Jersey Journal recently, North Bergens application to the state Department of Environmental Protection to build a new preschool on what should be open space in county-owned James J. Braddock North Hudson Park is being blasted because of, among other things: declining enrollment; land replacement proposals that fall far short of state regulations; the existence of potential alternative sites for the school; and gross misrepresentations in the paperwork the township submitted. Technically, because the parkland was created using state Green Acres funding, the application before the DEP is a proposal to create comparable open space in other parts of North Bergen in exchange for the land where the trailers now sit and the new school building is proposed. Under review now, the application should be rejected. Then, the trailers should be evicted, the schoolchildren should be placed in more appropriate classrooms in the township, and the land should be reclaimed for park uses. This dance has been going on for far, far too long. North Bergen should never have put its trailers on the land back in 2001. Once it did, the state should have put a stop to it. With Mayor Nicholas Sacco also a state senator at the time, the political will in Trenton may have been too weak to simply do the right thing. But now that Sacco is no longer in the state Legislature and no longer in a bromance with Union City Mayor and state Sen. Brian Stack, DEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette should be free to fix this mess. In fact, neighboring municipalities, including Union City, have suddenly seen the light and passed resolutions urging the DEP to reject the plan. While it disgusts us to appeal to base political jockeying, at least the end result would be the right one. To the DEP: Reject the proposal and evict the trailers at the end of this school year. To the North Bergen Board of Education: Create appropriate preschool classrooms for the grand total of 189 children starting in September 2025. To the Hudson County Board of Commissioners: Dedicate a plaque in the park to activist Robert Walden and the Save Braddock Park members who have refused to let themselves be bullied into silence. To residents across Hudson County: Let the DEP know North Bergens plan is unacceptable. Keep an eye on the DEP website as at least one public hearing with an open public comment period is planned, most likely for February, before the DEP makes its decision. Public hearings are listed at: dep.nj.gov/otpla/category/plc-public-notices/. Park space is precious, especially in densely populated Hudson County. The window to act is open now. Its imperative that it not be a lost opportunity. Send letters to the editor and guest columns for The Jersey Journal to jjletters@jjournal.com. Six-day (Tuesday through Sunday) print subscribers of the Watertown Daily Times are eligible for full access to NNY360, the NNY360 mobile app, and the Watertown Daily Times e-edition, all at no additional cost. If you have an existing six-day print subscription to the Watertown Daily Times, please make sure your email address on file matches your NNY360 account email. You can sign up or manage your print subscription using the options below. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 6. The date of the court hearing for war criminal Ruben Vardanyan's case has been disclosed, Trend reports. According to the information, the preliminary adjudication session of the judiciary regarding the criminal case is slated for January 17. To note, the case has been referred to the Baku Military Court for adjudication under the auspices of Judge Zeynal Aghayev, who presides as the Chairman of the Court. The Main Investigation Department of the State Security Service of the Republic of Azerbaijan conducted an investigation of a criminal case involving acts of terrorism, financing of terrorism, crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, and numerous other offenses committed against the Republic of Azerbaijan and its people. Ruben Karlenovich Vardanyan, a former citizen of the Russian Federation and currently a citizen of the Republic of Armenia, was the founder and head of the "Troyka Dialog" company in Russia, a member of the Board of Directors of "KAMAZ" OJSC, and an independent director of the "Volga-Dnepr" group of companies, among other positions in the Russian Federation, on September 25, 2023, was charged under Articles 214-1, 279.3, and 318.1 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan and declared wanted. He was arrested on September 27, 2023, handed over to the investigative authorities, and charged on the same date. Based on the substantial evidence collected, the accused, Ruben Vardanyan, has been charged with participating in the criminal activities of the so-called "Nagorno-Karabakh Republic" and associated illegal armed groups established in the territories of the Republic of Azerbaijan occupied by the Republic of Armenia. He has been implicated in the creation and organization of illegal armed formations and groups. A final indictment has been issued against him under various articles of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, including: Article 100 (planning, preparing, initiating, or waging an aggressive war), Article 107 (deportation or forcible transfer of population), Article 109 (persecution), Article 112 (unlawful deprivation of liberty in violation of international law), Article 113 (torture), Article 114 (mercenarism), Article 115 (violation of the laws and customs of war), Article 116 (violation of international humanitarian law norms during armed conflict), Article 214 (terrorism), Article 214-1 (financing of terrorism), Article 218 (establishment of a criminal organization), Article 228 (illegal acquisition, transfer, sale, storage, transportation, or carrying of firearms, their components, ammunition, explosive substances, and devices), Article 270-1 (acts threatening aviation security), Article 278 (forceful seizure of power and its forcible retention, forceful alteration of the state's constitutional order), Article 279 (creation of armed groups and units not provided for by law), 318 (illegal crossing of the state border of the Republic of Azerbaijan). During the investigation, the accused person's right to defense, use of a language he understands, and other procedural rights were fully ensured. Ruben Vardanyan was provided with legal representation by lawyers of his choosing. Petitions submitted by him and his lawyers were reviewed in accordance with the requirements of criminal procedure legislation, and relevant decisions were made. Ruben Vardanyan and other participants in the criminal process were informed about the conclusion of the preliminary investigation and given access to review all the criminal case materials, including physical evidence, documents, expert opinions, and other evidence. The Prosecutor General of the Republic of Azerbaijan approved the indictment on December 28, 2024, and submitted it to the Baku Military Court for consideration. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 6. President of the Republic of Northern Macedonia Gordana Siljanovska Davkova has sent a letter of condolences to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev over the death and injury of people in a plane crash near Aktau, Kazakhstan, Trend reports. "Your Excellency, It is with deep sadness that I received the news of the plane crash near Aktau, Republic of Kazakhstan, and I sincerely regret the loss of lives in this huge tragedy. In these mournful moments for you, for the friendly Azerbaijani people, and for the families of the victims, allow me, on behalf of the citizens of my country and on my personal behalf, to express my deepest condolences. Please, your Excellency, convey the expressions of my deepest condolences to the families of the tragic victims, as well as my wishes for a speedy recovery for the injured. Gordana Siljanovska Davkova President of the Republic of North Macedonia," the letter reads. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. The Brazilian Air Force's Air Accident Investigation and Information Center has completed the decoding of the black boxes from the Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) plane that crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, Trend reports. Sources within the department shared this update with the Brazilian portal G1. The process of extracting, collecting, and verifying data from both black boxes has been finalized, according to the sources. Additionally, as reported by the O Globo newspaper, the department has already forwarded the investigation results to the relevant authorities in Kazakhstan. On December 25, an Embraer 190 passenger plane belonging to Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), en route from Baku to Grozny, crashed about 3 kilometers from Aktau airport. There were 67 people on board (62 passengers and 5 crew members). Two crew members survived. On December 26, 14 injured passengers and the bodies of four victims were returned to Azerbaijan. When he talks about his experience of coming to America and how alienated he felt, there were all these things that just really fed into our conception of the character, Corbet said. Breuers work was also a reference for Becker as she began to envision what the institute would look like. She thought of a synagogue in Scarsdale, N.Y., that was shaped like a Star of David. She only learned recently that it was a work of Breuers. In their screenplay, Fastvold and Corbet were as descriptive as possible about the features the institute needed, and included information about materials that should be used to build it as well as what each room should contain. And yet Fastvold could never fully visualize the final product. It had to be this work of art thats processing his trauma, and also the romance and love thats in there as well for Erzsebet was so important. But I kept thinking, Oh gosh, how is the physical manifestation of all these things not going to be heavy-handed? Fastvold recalled. I think Judy really had this vision. It was such a relief. For Becker, an Oscar nominee for her work on American Hustle, the biggest puzzle was how to incorporate concentration camp imagery. In her research, she was surprised to find that the barracks had windows. Those became crucial to her design, the sky representing a sense of freedom. To create this sensation she looked outside the time period, studying earthwork artists and James Turrell, who is known for his use of light. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 6. The security measures have been strengthened at the production sites of the Azneft Production Association of the State Oil Company of the Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR) due to a sharp change in weather conditions countrywide, a source in SOCAR told Trend. According to the source, the execution of hazardous work was limited, and appropriate measures were taken to protect the health of workers within the framework of labor standards. Moreover, educational work is being carried out in all sectors, and the evacuation of a number of production facilities located in the sea has been carried out. The situation is under control, the source added. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel A passenger plane carrying 181 people crash-landed on its belly on Sunday at an airport in South Korea, hitting a barrier and exploding into an orange fireball in the worst aviation disaster in the country in almost three decades. All but two of the people on board the plane, a Boeing 737-800 operated by Jeju Air, were killed. The plane, Flight 7C2216, had taken off from Bangkok and was landing at Muan International Airport in South Koreas southwest when it crashed around 9 a.m. local time. Officials said the plane had broken into so many pieces that only its tail was identifiable. The plane was carrying 175 passengers and six crew members. The two who survived were crew members who were rescued from the aircrafts tail section. Aviation analysts are considering several factors that might have contributed to a deadly plane crash in South Korea, including a concrete structure near the runway that the airliner slammed into, exploding and killing 179 of the 181 people aboard. Most airports dont have similar structures in such proximity to runways, experts said. When they do, they are typically made of softer materials designed to break apart or absorb impact with minimal damage to a plane that overruns a runway. Details about the cause of the crash on Sunday of Jeju Air Flight 7C2216, the worst ever on South Korean soil, are likely to remain unclear until investigators release their preliminary findings, expected in the coming month. Experts cautioned against drawing conclusions, including about the possible role of airport infrastructure, until a full review of evidence is complete. But in the days ahead, investigators will be looking at that wall, said Hassan Shahidi, president of the Flight Safety Foundation, a nonprofit that provides safety guidance to the aviation industry. On the morning that the ill-fated Jeju Air flight was headed to its destination in southwestern South Korea, Lee Geun-young was near the airport, getting ready to open a restaurant serving mud-flat octopus, a local delicacy. Half an hour later, Mr. Lee shot videos that were among the first the world saw of the Jeju Air Flight 7C2216 crash that killed all but two of the 181 people on board. In an interview with The New York Times, he talked about the challenge of dealing with the shock of what he had seen. Mr. Lees restaurant, along a road about 330 yards from Muan International Airport where the plane was about to land, has a clear view of the southern end of the runway, close to the water. Mr. Lee, 48, recalled that it was a sunny morning and that he had seen birds at a nearby beach. The Lake Como Design Festival is a cultural spree held every fall among the toothy hills of northern Italy. For the latest edition, the theme was lightness, and the stars of the show were fragile glassware, wispy textiles, swaying mobiles and spidery chairs. The program also included tours of some of the areas treasured 20th-century architecture, buildings so free of monumentality and ornament that they almost seemed to float. Yet there was nothing light about their origins. Much of Comos rationalist architecture, as the Italian modernist style is known, was by young, experimental practitioners in the service of Mussolini. Chief among this group was Giuseppe Terragni (1904-1943), celebrated for his widely acknowledged masterpiece: the Casa del Fascio, or House of Fascism, the national partys offices in Como. These days, Mussolini is back in the spotlight. M: Son of the Century, an eight-part television series directed by Joe Wright, was screened in September at the Venice Film Festival and will be aired on Sky Italy starting Friday. Like the popular 2018 novel on which it is based, the series graphically anatomizes the fascist leaders brutality as well as the charisma that catapulted him to power. Golden Globe voters did little to clear up a blurry awards picture in Hollywood on Sunday, giving little-seen films like The Brutalist and Emilia Perez roughly equal treatment and snubbing some perceived Oscar front-runners, including Anora. The Brutalist, an immigrant epic from A24 that has yet to open in wide release, received three Globes, winning best drama, best actor (Adrien Brody) and best director (Brady Corbet). Emilia Perez, the Spanish-language Netflix musical exploring trans identity, was victorious in four categories, taking best comedy or musical, best supporting actress (Zoe Saldana), best song (El Mal) and best non-English-language film. The other film prizes were scattered far and wide, with Wicked, The Substance, A Different Man, Flow, Im Still Here, Conclave, Challengers and A Real Pain winning one Globe each. Anora, which went into the night with five nominations, left with nothing, as did The Wild Robot, which had four nods, and the Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown, which had three. Awards handicappers have expected this trio especially Anora, about a young sex worker to be strong Oscar contenders. Kieran Culkin earned his second Golden Globe on Sunday night, his first in a movie category, for his work in A Real Pain. In the film, which was written and directed by Jesse Eisenberg, who also co-stars, Culkin plays Benji, one of two cousins on a heritage tour of Poland to honor their recently deceased grandmother, who was a Holocaust survivor. Culkin won a Golden Globe last year for his work on the television series Succession, playing the media scion Roman Roy. Eisenberg had not seen that wildly popular television show when he cast Culkin in the very personal film, which explores generational trauma. The gamble ended up working out: Culkin has been considered a strong supporting actor contender at the Oscars ever since the film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival about a year ago. But in a conversation with Kyle Buchanan, the New York Timess awards expert, Culkin said he much preferred being at home with his wife, Jazz Charton, and two children instead of working. He even said he tried to pull out of A Real Pain when a shift in the filming schedule meant he would be away from them for a month. I was like, I cant be away from the family for that long, and I had a flip-out, he said. Anita Desai has lived in Delhi and London and Boston, but when she settled, she chose the Hudson River Valley, in New York State. She first came 40 years ago, to visit the filmmakers Ismail Merchant and James Ivory, and was so impressed that she later made her home here, on one of the most dramatic stretches of the river. I discovered what a beautiful part of America this is, recalled Desai, 87, sitting in her house in Cold Spring, her living room awash in sunlight and her walls lined with books. The journey to this point has been long and winding for Desai. For years, she explored a variety of literary and artistic landscapes, from remote Indian ashrams to Mexican mining towns and suburban America, expanding in the process the horizons of generations of Indian writers, both at home and abroad. And now, though she has put down roots in one place, her imagination continues to roam widely. Her new novella, Rosarita, is a slim, enigmatic mystery set in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, a ghostly meditation on truth and memory, violence and art. In it, a visiting Indian student stumbles upon traces of her mothers hidden past as an artist in 1950s Mexico or is it just a mirage, fed by the fantasies and falsehoods of a local stranger? There are at least four reasons for the recent resurgence. First, recent coups in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger have left a power vacuum in the Sahel region of West Africa. The breakdown in governance in the Sahel has led to turmoil and insecurity thats created space for bad actors including ISIS and Al Qaeda, our colleague Eric Schmitt said. (We recommend this story by Eric and Ruth Maclean.) Second, the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 reduced the pressure on an ISIS chapter there known as ISIS-K, and it has since expanded beyond Afghanistan. ISIS-K was behind the Iran bombing, the Moscow concert attack and the Taylor Swift plot. The one silver lining in all three of these plots is that U.S. intelligence detected them in advance, Eric said. (The U.S. warned Iran and Russia about the two plots there, to no avail.) This shows that even though U.S. forces can no longer apply pressure on the group in Afghanistan, U.S. spy agencies have made tapping into their electronics a high priority. Third, ISIS has begun to reassert itself in the parts of Iraq and Syria that it once controlled. And the downfall of President Bashar al-Assad seems likely to give the group more ability to operate, as Charles Lister, a terrorism expert at the Middle East Institute, explained in a recent Times Opinion essay. Fourth, Hamass Oct. 7 attack on Israel and the ensuing war seem to have encouraged more attacks. Hamas fighters streamed some of their killings that day partly to inspire copycat terrorism. Weve seen the threat from foreign terrorists rise to a whole nother level after Oct. 7, Christopher Wray, the F.B.I. director, told Congress last spring. Hollywood hoisted a white flag in the culture war on Sunday. That summation of the 82nd Golden Globe Awards will undoubtedly aggravate some people in the movie capital. Us? Conceding the moral high ground to President-elect Donald J. Trump and his supporters? Never. They could point fairly to the movies that won prizes on Sunday. Emilia Perez, honored with four Globes, is a Spanish-language musical about trans identity. The Brutalist, which received three, is an epic about immigrant struggles. Wicked, which was given a newish award for best blockbuster, is about prejudices and the corruption of power. But the Globes have never been about subtlety. The Globes are where stars supposedly let it rip, where they proselytize for progressive causes and concerns. Sundays show was Hollywoods first megaphone since Mr. Trump was comfortably elected to a second term. And this time, there was barely a peep about it. In 2017, Meryl Streep tore into Mr. Trump from the Globes stage, firmly throwing down the gauntlet for a new kind of culture war. The next year, the Globes became a de facto rally for the Times Up movement, with dozens of actresses wearing black to protest sexual harassment and Oprah Winfrey delivering a barnburner of a speech. In 2020, Michelle Williams gave an impassioned plea for abortion rights, while Russell Crowe called attention to climate change and a bush fire crisis in Australia. U.S. Steel and Japans Nippon Steel sued the United States government on Monday in a last-ditch attempt to revive their attempted merger after President Biden blocked it last week on the basis that the transaction posed a threat to national security. The lawsuit, filed in a federal court in Washington, accused Mr. Biden and other senior administration officials of corrupting the review process for political gain and of harming steelworkers and the American steel industry by blocking the deal under false pretenses. Mr. Biden moved to block the merger after a government panel charged with reviewing foreign investments failed to reach a decision about whether the deal should proceed. In a statement on Friday, Mr. Biden said that he was acting to ensure that the United States maintains a strong domestically owned and operated steel industry. The president had previously vowed to ensure that U.S. Steel remained American-owned. The companies are asking for the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States to conduct a new review of the deal. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 6. The State Migration Service of Azerbaijan has issued a notice to citizens of the Russian Federation and stateless individuals residing continuously in the Russian Federation regarding their visit to the Republic of Azerbaijan, Trend reports. As per Decree No. 561 issued by the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan on December 29, 2024, effective January 1, 2025, the duration of temporary stay for citizens of the Russian Federation visiting the Republic of Azerbaijan without a visa, as well as for stateless individuals permanently residing in the Russian Federation, shall not exceed 90 days within a single calendar year. Citizens of the Russian Federation and stateless individuals permanently residing in the Russian Federation who intend to remain in the country for over 90 days within a year, provided there are legal grounds, must submit an application to the State Migration Service prior to the expiration of their temporary stay to extend this duration or obtain a temporary residence permit. Russian nationals and stateless individuals permanently residing in the Russian Federation who enter the country from January 1, 2025, must adhere to this criterion. For more information, one may reach the State Migration Service's call center at (012) 919, official social media profiles (Facebook, Instagram), or the Public Relations Department via email at [email protected], the statement reads. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Gov. Kathy Hochul of New York on Monday proposed an expansion of the states child tax credit that would more than double what some families currently receive. The plan, the second in a series of recent proposals the governor has made toward addressing the states affordability crisis, would give eligible families a tax credit of up to $1,000 per child under the age of 4. Each child from the age of 4 to 16 will qualify families to receive up to a $500 tax break per child. In recent years, the state has offered up to $330 per child for the poorest New York families. Ms. Hochul will include the proposal in her State of the State address next week and push to include it in her executive budget. Frustration with the high cost of living surfaced among voters in the 2024 elections, and many Democrats, amid soul searching about Republican victories, said they should have talked more about addressing affordability. Mr. Walden, a former prosecutor who is running on an anti-corruption platform, said in an interview that it made sense for him, as a political outsider, to run on the Independence Party ballot line, as former Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg did in 2001, 2005 and 2009. Mr. Walden has said that he is a political independent and has some views that are liberal some that are conservative. I think that people are sick and tired of the extremes of the parties driving the conversation, he said. People want to focus on the pocketbook issues that matter to them. The field of candidates in the mayoral race is unsettled, and it is possible that a third-party challenge could play a significant role. Mayor Eric Adams, a conservative Democrat who has been indicted on federal corruption charges, is facing a competitive Democratic primary in June. Curtis Sliwa, the founder of the Guardian Angels, is planning to run for mayor as a Republican again after losing to Mr. Adams in the general election in 2021. The Independence Party once had more than 400,000 registered voters in the state. Some Democrats have argued that its name sowed confusion by courting independent voters who were unaffiliated with any party. He is due back in federal court in Manhattan on Jan. 16 for a civil trial in which he is expected to argue that his Palm Beach condo should be exempt from the seizure under Florida law, because it is his primary residence. But Mr. Giuliani has failed repeatedly to answer questions that could prove his residency. The court ruled that Mr. Giuliani had obstructed the election workers attempts to determine Mr. Giulianis real primary residence, which for years had been the cooperative apartment on East 66th Street in Manhattan. Judge Liman, who has appeared frustrated at Mr. Giulianis shifting rationale for the omissions, ruled that his failure to comply will permit the court to draw negative conclusions about his Florida residency status, which could hobble his defense. The defendant has been attempting to run out the clock, Judge Liman said, adding that he was unmoved by the former mayors argument that he was overwhelmed with court requests, including charges in two criminal cases and several other civil actions. The fact that he is a busy person and relied on others is not an excuse, he said. The contempt charges on Monday pertained specifically to Mr. Giulianis failure to cooperate with the discovery process related to his condo. He could also be held in contempt for his failure to hand over other valuables, some of which remain tied up in legal limbo. After being grilled on the stand for several hours on Friday, Mr. Giuliani said he had made progress in obtaining the title to the convertible that he must hand over to the women. But they have yet to receive that title. To the Editor: Re For Many of Us, Jan. 6 Never Ended, by Aquilino Gonell (Opinion guest essay, Jan. 6): This arguably darkest day in American history was witnessed by millions of people worldwide on television. Nine people wound up dead and more than 140 police officers were injured defending the legislators inside the Capitol building and democracy itself. Mr. Gonell, a sergeant in the Capitol Police at the time, and the rest of the defenders of democracy are the true patriots. Jan. 20, 2025, will be a defining day in the history of democracy in the United States when President-elect Donald Trump takes office. He has said he will pardon the rioters or patriots, hostages, warriors, peaceful protesters, as he has called them. If Mr. Trump follows through on his promise to pardon those involved, it will be a desecration of democracy and a travesty of the justice system. He will confirm his stature as an enemy of democracy within. John Garteiz Munich To the Editor: At least I get to hear my son call me his hero, writes Aquilino Gonell, a former Capitol Police sergeant. Mr. Gonell, please know you and your brave colleagues are heroes to all of us who care for and work to support democracy. I, for one, offer you my profound gratitude and respect. The Dutch historian Pieter Geyl said, History is an argument without end. Not always. Many big historical questions are firmly settled. No one seriously suggests that the Watergate break-in was justified, and even Marjorie Taylor Greene retracted her claim that Sept. 11 was an inside job. At first, the same consensus seemed to apply to Jan. 6, 2021. Like all Americans, I am outraged by the violence, lawlessness and mayhem, Donald Trump said the day after the riot he inspired. Mr. Trump appears to have crossed out these lines in his statement addressed to the rioters: You do not represent me. You do not represent our movement. Even then, he couldnt bring himself to say that. But he did say that they did not represent the country, and the guilt of those who ransacked the Capitol hardly seemed ripe for revision. Of course, it didnt take long for Mr. Trump to move from condemning the rioters to celebrating them. And with his victory in November, the narrative of the most serious threat to the American Republic since the Civil War is suddenly up for grabs. For Mr. Trump, the new struggle over Jan. 6 is a chance to rewrite not just the most irresponsible moment of his irresponsible life but American history itself. The Minneapolis City Council unanimously voted on Monday to overhaul its police department to address a pattern of systemic abuses, as part of an agreement with the Department of Justice. Lawyers from the Department of Justice and the city, where George Floyd was killed in 2020 by a police officer, have raced in recent weeks to finalize terms of the deal, known as a consent decree, before President-elect Donald J. Trump takes office. The previous Trump administration opposed the use of consent decrees to force change on police departments, and the fate of nearly a dozen other federal investigations into American police departments is uncertain. Under the deal approved on Monday, the Minneapolis department promised to closely track and investigate allegations of police misconduct, rein in the use of force, and improve officer training. This agreement reflects what our community has asked for and what we know is necessary: real accountability and meaningful change, Mayor Jacob Frey of Minneapolis said in a statement. The U.S. military sent 11 Yemeni prisoners at Guantanamo Bay to Oman to restart their lives, the Pentagon said on Monday, leaving just 15 men in the prison in a bold push at end of the Biden administration that has left the prison population smaller than at any time in its more than 20-year history. None of the released men had been charged with crimes during their two decades of detention. Now, all but six of the remaining prisoners have been charged with or convicted of war crimes. There were 40 detainees when President Biden took office and resurrected an Obama administration effort to close the prison. The Pentagon carried out the secret operation in the early hours of Monday, days before Guantanamos most notorious prisoner, Khalid Shaikh Mohammed, was scheduled to plead guilty to plotting the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks that killed nearly 3,000 people in exchange for a life sentence rather than face a death-penalty trial. The handoff had been in the works for about three years. An initial plan to conduct the transfer in October 2023 was derailed by opposition from Congress. The Biden administration on Monday lifted some restrictions on humanitarian aid to Syria but kept sweeping sanctions in place just weeks after rebel forces toppled the Assad familys 50-year authoritarian grip on the country. The authorization by the Treasury Department is a sign of how Washington is taking tentative steps to navigate its approach to Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the main rebel faction that took down the government in Damascus. The group was once an affiliate of Al Qaeda and, although it has broken with the organization, it remains a designated a terrorist group by the U.S. government. The decision by the Treasury, which lasts for six months, allows humanitarian groups to operate more freely without running afoul of U.S. sanctions, including by helping to provide basic services such as electricity, energy, water and sanitation. During Syrias civil war, which began in March 2011, the United States and its allies routinely looked to apply economic pressure on the now-ousted President Bashar al-Assad, his inner circle and the countrys economy writ large, leaving Syria as one of the Treasurys most comprehensively sanctioned jurisdictions, according to a news release by the department. A fresh injection of about 150 foreign officers arrived in Haiti this weekend to bolster an international security force charged with taking on the powerful and well-armed gangs that have inflicted so much misery on the country for months. But if the past is any guide this latest infusion is unlikely to make much of a difference. Back-to-back massacres that killed more than 350 people, followed by a Christmas Eve assault on Haitis largest public hospital have underscored the Haitian governments increasing lack of control over the nations deepening crisis. A news conference to announce the reopening of a public hospital that had been closed for nine months because of gang violence came under another gang attack, killing two reporters and a police officer. More than two dozen journalists caught in the ambush were trapped for two hours triaging seven wounded colleagues before they were rescued. They ripped their own clothing to fashion tourniquets and used tampons to stanch the bleeding because, witnesses said, the few doctors at the hospital ran for their lives. Reporters escaped by climbing a rear wall. He is widely believed to have won Venezuelas presidential election, and by a landslide. But on Monday, instead of making preparations for his swearing-in at the palm-lined palace in Caracas, Edmundo Gonzalez was at the White House meeting with President Biden. The encounter, a first for the two men, signals Mr. Bidens desire to present a broad coalition of support for Mr. Gonzalez, who met with the right-wing president of Argentina, Javier Milei, over the weekend, and will meet with other regional presidents in the coming days. It is part of an effort by Mr. Biden, in the final days of his administration, to further isolate Nicolas Maduro, Venezuelas longtime autocratic leader, who claims he won the countrys July election. We had a long, fruitful and cordial conversation with President Biden and his team, Mr. Gonzalez said at a news conference outside the White House, but he did not provide any details about the topics they discussed. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 6. The event dedicated to December 31World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day and New Yearhas been organized in Melbourne, Trend reports via the State Committee for Work with Diaspora. Meanwhile, it was noted that the event was held with the support of the State Committee for Work with Diaspora and the Embassy of Azerbaijan in the Commonwealth of Australia, with the joint organization of the Australia-Azerbaijan Society, a member of the Alliance of Azerbaijani Associations of Australia, and the Association of Azerbaijani Culture "Victoria". The event was attended by members of numerous Azerbaijani communities living in this country, members of the Federal Parliament of Australia and the Parliament of the State of Victoria, as well as the chairman of the City Municipal Council and heads of local and national communities. Chairman of the State Committee for Work with Diaspora Fuad Muradov congratulated the participants of the meeting. He wished success to the activities of the Alliance of Azerbaijani Associations of Australia, which unites all public organizations registered at the federal level. Charge d'Affaires of the Azerbaijani Embassy in the Commonwealth of Australia, Vagif Jafarov, congratulated the participants of the event on the holiday and informed the guests about the history and essence of the World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day, the role of National Leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev in the foundation of the day. The event was also addressed by Australian Federal Parliament member Congressman Keith Wolahan, Victorian Parliament member Congressman Richard Welch, and head of the Alliance of Azerbaijani Associations of Australia Fuad Aydinbek. Afterward, a concert program of Azerbaijani national dances and music was performed by members of the community. Mr. Cho said the democratic guardrails in his country are holding, and that the international community is focusing on the resilience, and thats the right way to assess our society. Mr. Blinken noted that he was making his fourth visit to South Korea as secretary of state and his 21st to the Indo-Pacific region, and that this final diplomatic mission in his current post was bringing him full circle. He and Lloyd J. Austin III, the U.S. defense secretary, went to South Korea and Japan for joint meetings in 2021 on their first overseas trips as cabinet secretaries. Mr. Blinken is on a marathon trip around the globe: He plans to have meetings in Japan on Tuesday, in France on Wednesday and in Italy on Thursday, before intersecting with Mr. Biden in Rome to visit Pope Francis at the Vatican on Saturday. Mr. Blinken met with the pope in November. Mr. Biden, his top aides and U.S. intelligence agencies were blindsided by Mr. Yoons anti-democratic power grab. It has been an embarrassment for Mr. Biden the American president had hailed Mr. Yoon as a champion of democracy and had chosen South Korea to host one of his pet projects, the Summit for Democracy, an initiative aimed at promoting global democratic strength. In March, Mr. Yoon presided over the third iteration in Seoul. Mr. Biden feted Mr. Yoon at a state dinner in April 2023 in Washington, where the tuxedo-clad Mr. Yoon sang American Pie to an adoring audience. Along with Japan, South Korea is a decades-long American ally in East Asia, and bolstering those military alliances has been a crucial part of Mr. Bidens strategy to constrain China. In August 2023, Mr. Biden hosted Mr. Yoon and then-Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan at Camp David to announce a new trilateral security arrangement among the three nations. The Taliban are trying to do what the United States could not during its 20-year occupation. The U.S. government spent nearly a billion dollars to develop mining projects in Afghanistan, but tangible progress was negligible and not sustained, the special inspector general concluded in a report published in January 2023. Many of the hurdles from that time could still apply: a lack of security, poor infrastructure, corruption, inconsistent government policies and regulations, and frequent turnover of government officials. The Taliban are nonetheless giving it a shot, desperate for revenue after Afghanistans precipitous loss of aid with the U.S. withdrawal. During the war, the United States provided roughly $143 billion in development and humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, propping up the U.S.-aligned government. Since 2021, the United States has given $2.6 billion in such aid, delivered by a private contractor in shrink-wrapped cash bundles on flights to Kabul, according to the special inspector general. What led to this? The Freedom Party finished first in the Sept. 29 election, with nearly 30 percent of the vote, but was well short of a majority. Despite the victory at the ballot box, it initially looked as if the party, founded by ex-Nazis in the 1950s, would not be part of the new government because mainstream parties refused to work with Mr. Kickl, whom they called a danger to democracy. Karl Nehammer, the chancellor and head of the conservative Austrian Peoples Party, which finished in second place with 26.5 percent, was tasked first by President Van der Bellen with trying to form a government. Chancellor Nehammer reached out to the center-left Social Democrats and the upstart Neos party to try to reach an agreement for a coalition government. But they were unable to bridge their differences over core budget issues. Late last week, first Neos pulled out of the talks and soon after the conservatives and Social Democrats announced the talks had failed. On Saturday, Mr. Nehammer announced he was resigning both as chancellor and party leader. His hastily elected replacement as party leader, Christian Stocker, then announced that despite promises made during the campaign the Peoples Party, known as the OVP, would be open to coalition talks with the Freedom Party. What is the Freedom Party? The party was founded not long after World War II by former members of the SS, the Nazi paramilitary police. The party introduces Mr. Kickl using the word Volkskanzler, German for peoples chancellor, before campaign speeches, which evokes the rise of German fascism and Adolf Hitler. It has a history of denigrating migrants in Austria as criminals and welfare sponges. Under a banner of Fortress Austria, Mr. Kickl has called for a temporary halt to accepting new asylum seekers and for a law that would ban them from becoming Austrian citizens. Five months after storming across the border into the Kursk region of southern Russia, Ukrainian forces were making a renewed push on Monday to drive deeper into Russia, even as they appear to have lost a strategic town in eastern Ukraine. While the scale of the renewed Ukrainian offensive in Kursk remains unclear, both Russian and Ukrainian officials reported heavy fighting on Sunday night. Combat footage geolocated by military analysts indicated that Ukraine was trying to break through Russian defenses in at least three directions. It is the first significant attempt by Ukrainian troops to advance in Kursk since the original incursion in August. Since then, Russia has regained roughly half of the territory it lost. At the same time, the Russian Ministry of Defense claimed on Monday that its forces had seized control of Kurakhove, an important but shattered industrial town, further closing in on Ukrainian forces in the southern Donbas region after more than two months of withering bombardments and heavy fighting. Prime Minister Keir Starmer of Britain on Monday fired back at Elon Musk after days of inflammatory social media posts by Mr. Musk, the billionaire owner of X, indirectly accusing him and others of spreading lies and misinformation about victims of child sex abuse gangs. Those who are spreading lies and misinformation, as far and as wide as possible, are not interested in victims, Mr. Starmer told reporters at an event south of London dedicated to repairing the National Health Service. Theyre interested in themselves. Mr. Starmer also defended himself against accusations by Mr. Musk that he did not act quickly enough against gangs that abused and exploited young girls, when he was head of public prosecutions. An estimated 1,400 girls were exploited in the northern town of Rotherham by grooming gangs made up largely of British Pakistani men in cases that date back to before 2010. Similar gangs were also found to be operating in other towns and cities in England, including Oldham and Telford. The prime minister noted that when he was director of the Crown Prosecution Service, between 2008 and 2013, his office brought the first case against an Asian grooming gang and drafted new guidelines for the mandatory reporting of child sex offenses. He had tackled the scandal head on, he said. When Elon Musk asked his 211 million followers on X to vote on whether America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government, it seemed as if the post could only be tongue-in-cheek. But coming after a barrage of strident posts about Britain by Mr. Musk assailing the Labour prime minister, Keir Starmer; demanding the release of a jailed far-right agitator; and breaking with a hard-right leader, Nigel Farage it came off less as a joke than a flex by a powerful man relishing his ability to roil the politics of another country. Mr. Musks posts, which popped up on X throughout the holiday like unwelcome guests at a Christmas party, have thoroughly hijacked the political debate in Britain at the start of 2025. On Monday, Mr. Starmer used a news conference about fixing Britains National Health Service to deny Mr. Musks allegations that he had not acted when he was Britains chief prosecutor more than a decade ago against gangs that sexually abused girls. They also hope that Israel will extend its sovereignty over parts, or all, of the territory through annexation a step it has formally avoided since capturing the West Bank from Jordan in the 1967 Middle East war amid opposition from much of the world. We want to live our lives in Israel, Ms. Passentin said, adding, I believe the new administration will support whatever Israel decides. The West Bank has grown increasingly volatile. Israeli settler attacks on Palestinians and their property have risen sharply, while Israel has carried out a series of deadly raids and drone strikes targeting armed Palestinian militants that have chewed up streets and left many Palestinian civilians in fear. Nearly 1,000 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank since the beginning of 2023, according to the United Nations. The Israeli authorities say that most were armed fighters, but at least some were uninvolved civilians. About 50 Israelis were killed by Palestinian assailants in the West Bank during the same period, 18 of them members of the security forces, according to U.N. data. Shin Bet, Israels internal security agency, said it had thwarted more than a thousand attacks in 2024, including hundreds of shooting attacks. On Monday, gunmen shot at a civilian bus and cars passing the Palestinian village of Al-Funduq in the northern West Bank, killing at least three Israelis a police investigator and two women from a nearby settlement in what the Israeli authorities described as a terrorist attack. The Welsh village of Cyffylliog was invaded by bargain-hunting shoppers looking for a non-existent Aldi supermarket that internet trolls added to Google Maps as a prank. The add a missing place feature on Google Maps can be very useful when used correctly, but when abused by pranksters, it can cause headaches for entire communities. Case in point, Cyffylliog, a quiet Welsh village in Denbighshire whose inhabitants have seen a flood of confused shoppers looking for a phantom Aldi supermarket that only exists as a pin on Google Maps. Believed to have been added by a local internet troll, the listing has so far led thousands of people to a grassy field, tens of miles away from the nearest checkout lane. After a milk truck became stuck on a narrow village truck trying to deliver its cargo to the phantom Aldi, locals said that they have been visited by vans trying to deliver groceries and bread to the non-existent supermarket, as well as confused shoppers led there by their smartphones. Photo: Marques Thomas/Unsplash Weve had people knocking on doors asking where the Aldi is, delivery vans with groceries trying to find a nonexistent loading dock and even a bloke with a pallet of bread who thought hed been hired to stock shelves! one local woman said. The phantom Aldi of Cyffylliog has inspired dozens of hilarious memes that have been doing the rounds online for weeks, including photos of visitors holding shopping baskets while staring blankly at a sign that reads: Welcome to Cyffylliog. No Aldi here. Try Denbigh, and tourists digging for Aldi treasure. The locals, however, are not amused. Now we have an endless stream of day trippers and holidaymakers turning up and looking confused, a local farmer told reporters, adding that the chaos reached new heights last week when a large milk tanker got stuck on a narrow village street trying to locate the phantom Aldi. Photo: Priscilla du Preez/Unsplash Its one thing having tourists turn up looking for Aldi, local man Dafydd Hughes said. But when youve got a lorry full of milk clogging up the road, you start to question whats happening in the world. Locals have been trying to get the pin removed from Google Maps for a while, but it was only after Aldi itself became involved that the miracle actually happened. After news of the milk tanker getting stuck in Cyffylliog went viral, an Aldi spokesperson confirmed that the company had no plans of opening a store in the village and that it would be working with Google to have the listing removed from Maps. Honestly, if we had a pound for every car thats shown up, we couldve opened our own Aldi by now, Hughes joked. Google Maps has proved instrumental in solving tricky murder cases and capturing dangerous fugitives, but the platform has also proven easy to manipulate in various ways over the years. Russian police have been enforcing the countrys controversial anti-LGBT legislation by arresting people for dressing in ways that made them look too gay. Trying to arouse interest in non-traditional sexual relations has been considered a crime in Russia for over a decade, but the law was usually enforced against individuals and organizations that published and promoted LGBT propaganda. However, a recent analysis of court documentation by an independent news outlet revealed that the Kremlins strategy to promote traditional values now includes detaining and fining people for looking too gay. The Russian news website Verstka revealed an incident that occurred back in February of last year but was never covered by the media in which eight individuals were detained by police for wearing clothing that promoted non-traditional sexual relations. Photo: Kirill Kruglikov/Unsplash During a raid in a nightclub in the city of Tula, Russian police detained and later fined a group of men suspected of promoting an LGBT agenda. According to the photos and description discovered in Vertskas recent court document analysis, one of the offenders had pink socks, an unbuttoned kimono over his shoulders, his hair dyed bright orange, and red tattoos on his face, while another had crosses of black tape glued to his nipples and wore a womens style corset. Although a man, he was wearing a short top covering his chest, black leather shorts above the knee, on which there were several chain-shaped ornaments and fishnet tights, police described another suspect. The Russian Court reportedly agreed that the appearance of the detainees was inconsistent with the image of a man of traditional sexual orientation, and fined two of them 50,000 rubles ($467). The bartender of the raided club claimed he was a goth to explain why he had turquoise hair, eyebrow piercings, and a black t-shirt rolled up to his chest. Back in 2019, we wrote about a Russian iPhone user who sued Apple for allegedly turning him gay. Collected Strategies represents Forward Air Corp. as the Tennessee-based freight forwarding company reviews its strategic options. That review comes as activist Ancora Holdings reportedly has targeted Forward Air. George Mayes, chair of Forward Air, said its new leadership team is making tangible progress in stabilizing the business with the aim of transforming it into a global logistics powerhouse. The board and management team will pursue the best ways to enhance shareholder value, according to Mayes. That could be a sale, merger, financial transaction or continuing as a standalone company. Whatever the outcome of the review, Forward will not waver in its commitment to customers to deliver consistent high-quality service, said Mayes. The board has not set a timetable for the conclusion of the review. Collected Strategies has Nick Lamplough, Jim Golden, Tali Epstein working the Forward Air business. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 6. Leonardo, the Italian aerospace and defense company, views Central Asia as a vital region for expanding its innovative solutions in aerospace, defense, and security, said Angelo Cecchini, the company's Vice President of International Business Development for North East Asia, Oceania, Central Asia, and the India region, in an exclusive interview with Trend. "The commercial footprint of Leonardo in Central Asia is rich in terms of technologies provided and sectors of application, representing a solid foundation for the companys future growth in the region," he noted. Leonardos offerings in Central Asia already span a wide range of advanced technologies, including helicopters, secure communications, naval defense solutions, satellite services for both civil and military applications, combat and training aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). According to the VP, these solutions demonstrate Leonardos commitment to addressing the regions evolving needs. "In response to the growing necessities in the region, leveraging its advanced technologies in aerospace, defense, and security, Leonardo is willing to offer its expertise for the modernization of armed forces," Cecchini emphasized. This modernization encompasses rotary and fixed-wing aircraft, radar systems, UAVs, and border security solutions. The VP highlighted the importance of Leonardo's border security solutions, describing them as "designed for integration into a net-centric architecture for full situational awareness and control across air, land, and maritime domains". In addition to hardware, Leonardo prioritizes cybersecurity, offering cutting-edge solutions to protect governments and critical infrastructures from increasingly sophisticated threats. Cecchini pointed out that, in todays world, cybersecurity is indispensable: "Our solutions provide protection and resilience against cyberattacks, ensuring the security of sensitive data and operations". Leonardo also invests heavily in training programs tailored for defense and cybersecurity professionals. "Specialized defense and cyber training programs are of great importance," Cecchini remarked. "These programs enable customers and end-users to maximize the effectiveness of new equipment and adopt best practices in operational scenarios". Central Asias strategic role as a geographical bridge between Asia and Europe, its abundant energy resources, and its influence on regional stability for international security make it a focal point for Leonardos efforts. Rather than pursuing short-term business opportunities through a standard client-supplier business model, Cecchini explained that Leonardo aims to establish long-lasting relations with partner countries, focusing on providing tailored solutions that are specifically designed to meet the particular necessities of each country, ensuring the necessary levels of independency in system utilization while fully respecting sovereignty requirements in the management of data and information. The strength of Leonardo lies not only in the high technological standards of its portfolio, but also in its ability to offer modular and scalable solutions that can be progressively built and fully integrated to ensure the highest operational effectiveness, which allows for long-term solutions that evolve with the changing needs of the region. This, Cecchini said, is a key factor in positioning Leonardo as a trusted partner in enhancing the regions defense and security infrastructure, while also promoting long-term growth and stability. Leonardos contributions are focused on three main areas: Security : Providing solutions to protect against terroristic attacks, smuggling, and cyber threats, which are increasingly becoming critical issues in the region. : Providing solutions to protect against terroristic attacks, smuggling, and cyber threats, which are increasingly becoming critical issues in the region. Infrastructures : Enabling the secure development of transport and communication networks, as well as the management of natural resources, which are crucial for the sustainable growth of Central Asia. : Enabling the secure development of transport and communication networks, as well as the management of natural resources, which are crucial for the sustainable growth of Central Asia. Disaster Relief: Offering specific solutions for natural disaster prevention and management, to ensure the region can effectively respond to and mitigate the effects of natural calamities. "Through its cutting-edge technologies, Leonardo is committed to continuing its contribution to support the Central Asian countries to respond to their growing needs, helping to strengthen their security infrastructure and create an environment of long-term peace and stability," he added. Cecchini underscored Leonardos readiness to support the Middle Corridor's goal of bridging Europe and Asia with secure, efficient, and sustainable connectivity infrastructure. "The regions pivotal role in bridging Europe and Asia is confirmed and strengthened through the Middle Corridor initiative," said Cecchini. "This initiative presents several opportunities for Leonardo to contribute to the creation of a secure, efficient, and sustainable connectivity infrastructure, reinforcing its position as a key partner for regional development". Moreover, Leonardo aims to leverage its advanced capabilities in border control and critical infrastructure protection to ensure seamless and secure trade along the Middle Corridor. Cecchini highlighted the companys leading-edge expertise in secure communications as a cornerstone of its potential contributions, including satellite-based solutions, terrestrial communication systems, and robust cybersecurity measures. "Our solutions ensure the reliability and security of data transmission while enabling the monitoring and management of transportsbe it railways, highways, or portsessential for logistics and trade," he emphasized. Beyond secure communications, Leonardo is poised to enhance logistics operations with its Earth-observation services and advanced digital tools. Cecchini noted that Earth-observation technologies can enable real-time cargo tracking and predictive analytics, providing valuable insights for logistics optimization. "Leonardo's digitalization and AI-based solutions, powered by our supercomputer 'Da Vinci' can improve the efficiency of regional logistics networks," Cecchini said. These capabilities, he explained, enhance supply chain visibility, optimize freight movement, and improve multimodal transport hubs, fostering greater connectivity across the region. Further speaking, Angelo Cecchini emphasized Leonardos commitment to forging lasting partnerships in the region rather than pursuing short-term opportunities. "Central Asia is widely recognized for its strategic role as a bridge between Asia and Europe, its energy resources, and its importance for regional and international security". Leonardo is focused on providing modular and scalable solutions tailored to meet the regions needs in security, infrastructure, and disaster relief. The companys offerings include technologies for protecting against terrorism and cyber threats, enabling secure transport and resource management, and supporting natural disaster prevention and response. During COP29 in Baku, Leonardo highlighted its contribution to climate adaptation and decarbonization efforts, showcasing space-based technologies for resource management, environmental monitoring, and disaster resilience. "Our expertise supports sustainable energy and technologies, including clean energy deployment and risk mitigation," the VP noted. Leonardo is also exploring alternative propulsion systems, such as hybrid-electric and hydrogen-based technologies, to support Central Asias modernization of aviation in a sustainable way. "We aim to promote long-term growth and stability by offering tailored solutions and respecting the sovereignty of our partners," Cecchini concluded, positioning Leonardo as a trusted ally in the regions future development. TWO of the Tullamore Court Hotel's staff members are leading the charge in fundraising and support for local charities. Shauna McGrath and Fiona Egan, put their hearts into initiatives that brightened Christmas for families and children in Tullamore. Shauna partnered with the Tullamore Lions Club for a meaningful food appeal, organising a staff-wide food drive to support local families in need. Fiona took the lead on a toy drive, raising an impressive 786.80 for Barnardo's to purchase toy vouchers, ensuring that children in need in the area had gifts to open on Christmas morning, the team also raised 65 for Down Syndrome Ireland, the iNUA Collections Charity Partner for 2024. We were delighted to work alongside two amazing charities local to Tullamore to help the people and children of our community, said Shauna. The food drive was coordinated by myself, and the toy drive was led by Fiona. We hope these efforts will help many families and bring smiles to childrens faces. Were excited to continue working with these fantastic charities in the future. The team really showed up and came together to help the local community. We were delighted to get involved in the initiatives and to help make a difference to many families this Christmas said Garret O'Neill Regional Operations Manager for the iNua Collection. Tullamore Lions Club and Barnardos play vital roles in supporting those in need in our local area, and were so proud to have contributed to their incredible work this festive season. We want to say a huge thank you to Shauna and the team at the Tullamore Court Hotel for their generous donation which will help many local families this Christmas. With a cost of living crisis there are many families struggling and our aim is to help as many of those as we can. We look forward to working with The Tullamore Court Hotel in the future, a spokesperson on behalf of Tullamore Lions Club said. It was a great amount to get just before Christmas and we are delighted Fiona approached us to help all the families this Christmas a spokesperson for Barnardos said. "At Tullamore Court Hotel, community is at the heart of everything we do. This Christmas, were reminded of the joy that comes from coming together to give back. We look forward to continuing our partnerships with these wonderful organisations and hopefully making a difference for families in Offaly for years to come," said Mr O'Neill LOVE doesn't wait for the weather forecast, and for one determined couple, neither does their wedding! Against the backdrop of a beautiful snowstorm, and the amber glow of a Status Orange weather warning, 34-year-old Glenn and 32-year-old Tara braved the bitter conditions to say their long-awaited "I do" to one another, in Limerick's enchanting Castletroy Park Hotel on Saturday, January 4. From the beginning, Glenn and Tara's love story could rival any classic fairy-tale, with the couple first meeting after physically bumping into each other outside Brown Thomas in 2012. Tara, originally from Upper Fairhill in Cork, decided to head to Limerick City for the day to go shopping, while Glenn, who is from Janesboro, located in Limerick, was out on the town also. After colliding with one another, the connection was instant. This very moment began their long distance love story, which would see the smitten pair meet up each weekend. Two and a half years later, under the stunning view of the Riverfest fireworks, a festival held in Limerick, Glenn asked Tara to marry him, and she of course said yes! READ MORE: Family of tragic RTE Ireland's Fittest Family teen give blessing to show scenes in new series Waiting for the right time and moment, a perfect song came on to which Glenn said to his beloved, "I bet you'll never forget this song" as he got down on one knee, and now, 10 years after their engagement, the couple laughed as they confirmed they cannot remember what the song was, as they were too caught up in the beautiful moment. A match made in heaven! Thirteen years and three children later, Glenn and Tara now reside in Weston, Limerick City, where Glenn works as a Production Operator in Zimmer while is Tara is a stay-at-home mother to their beautiful sons, Alfie, Liam, and Oliver. The day was more than special, it was perfect, and the couple simply could not keep the smiles off their faces, despite the Status Orange weather warning which shook the country. When asked were they worried about such weather, Tara responded, "After 13 years, we didn't have a choice!" and laughed, with Glenn beside her confirming that they were too full of bliss to even notice the blanket of snow just a mere few meters away from them. The Castletroy Park Hotel was a sight to behold on the evening of Saturday, January 4, to one side you had children running around having snowball fights, and to the other, you had the newlyweds, who were clearly in a world of their own. It is clear that what no matter the weather conditions were, this perfect couple could not have waited another second to say "I do." Congratulations to Mr and Mrs Power! Subscription to paid content Gain access to all that Trend has to offer, as well as to premium, licensed content via subscription or direct purchase through a credit card. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 6. The Azerbaijan Railways (ADY) JSC served approximately 8.5 million passengers in 2024, Trend reports via the JSC statement. For the second consecutive year, ADY maintained record figures for the number of passengers served. In 2023, over seven million passengers were served. The main reasons for this increase in 2024 were the launch of new trains, the opening of new stations, and the increase in the number of additional services on holidays and weekends. Modern and comfortable trains produced by the Swiss Stadler Rail Group were commissioned in 2024 on the Baku-Aghstafa-Baku route. To further expand passenger transportation and ensure customer satisfaction, speed trains were for the first time equipped with stops at the Laki and Ujar stations. Additionally, in line with ADY's passenger transport strategy, the number of services on the Baku-Aghstafa-Baku route was increased from two to four with the introduction of new trains. Last year, ADY completed all preparations to restore passenger services on the Baku-Balakan-Baku route, with repair work carried out on the railway infrastructure on the Yevlakh-Balakan section. Regular train services on the Baku-Balaken-Baku route were launched on January 3, 2025. The number of users of ADY's mobile app, ADY Mobile, which was launched in 2023, increased, and last year, the number of downloads surpassed 172,000. The loyalty program, launched in September 2024, provided passengers traveling on suburban trains with more accessible and convenient travel options through the ADY Mobile app. Additionally, since November 1, 2024, dynamic pricing was introduced on intercity routes. Passengers who purchased tickets 30-25 days before travel and for return trips could avail themselves of a 15 percent discount. Several innovations were also introduced for convenient travel on the Baku Circular Railway. To ensure passenger comfort on this route, the number of turnstiles at the Baku Railway Station and at the Koroghlu stop was increased, and passenger transitions to platforms were expedited. At Baku Railway Station, where the number of turnstiles was increased from 28 to 36, the maximum capacity per minute increased from 750 to 1,000 people, and at the Koroghlu stop, where the number of turnstiles was increased from four to 10, the capacity increased from 108 to 270 people. All these steps contributed to high passenger flow growth. The number of passengers transported by rail within the country was 2.8 million in 2021, 5.2 million in 2022, 7.1 million in 2023, and around 8.5 million in 2024. Thus, similar to 2023, the plan was exceeded, and for the first time in a year, more than eight million passengers were transported. In 2024, the number of passengers on weekdays rose to 37,000, compared to 30,000 in 2023. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel ASTANA, Kazakhstan, January 6. Kazakhstan has exported 80 sections of electric freight locomotives to Azerbaijan, which were produced at a plant located in Astana's industrial zone No. 1, Trend reports via the press service of the country's President. According to the service, this plant was launched as part of an industrialization program with the support of the French Alstom company. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev visited the plant on Monday, which manufactures locomotive bodies, transformers, low-voltage and high-voltage cabinets, among other components. Notably, the plant has produced and serviced 380 freight and 70 passenger electric locomotives and their components for the national company Kazakhstan Railways (Kazakhstan Temir Zholy, KTZ). While touring the workshops, the president was briefed on the development of a new-generation locomotive, the cost of which has been reduced by 40 percent, and its efficiency increased by 20 percent. Production of new electric freight locomotives will begin in 2028. Alstom is currently investing in the construction of service centers in Astana, Almaty, Shu, and Arys, which will create an additional 700 jobs. 'Shogun,' the American historical television series set in imperial Japan, claimed the prestigious best drama television series trophy at the Golden Globes Awards ceremony held at Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles on Monday morning (IST). 'Shogun', which also won best female and male acting awards for first-time winners Anna Sawai and Hiroyuki Sanada, is a tale of political machinations. "Thank you for everyone that has been in my life. All of you have brought me here," Sanada said following his win. "For the young actors and creators in the world, believe in yourself and never give up," he added. The series won four awards in total, including the best supporting male actor for first-time Globe winner Tadanobu Asano who plays Kashigi Yabushige, the Lord of Izu. 'Shogun' follows the character Lord Yoshii Toranag, played by Sanada, as he discovers secrets that can help him destroy his enemies. ADVERTISEMENT The third season of 'Hacks,' meanwhile, which released in 2024 and deals with a complex female stand-up comedian, claimed the best Television Series Comedy or Musical. The series saw a shift in storyline from the previous two seasons. It took home two awards, including best female actor in a comedy for Jean Smart who plays stand-up comedian Deborah Vance in the Max series. "I never thought I'd be so happy to be called a hack," she said during her acceptance speech. Other noteworthy winners included "Baby Reindeer" from Netflix for best limited series or anthology. "People were crying out for something that kind of spoke to the kind of painful inconsistencies of being human," Richard Gadd, who plays stalker victim Donny Dunn, said while accepting the award. Jessica Gunning won best female supporting actor for her role in 'Baby Reindeer' as stalker Martha Scott. Colin Farrell also took home the award for best male actor in a limited series or anthology for his role as villain Oswald Cobb in Max's 'The Penguin.' ADVERTISEMENT In 2023, Eldridge Industries purchased the Golden Globe assets with Dick Clark Productions (DCP), and the Hollywood Foreign Press Association - which was criticized for a lack of diversity and ethical lapses in its stewardship of the awards - was shut down as a consequence. Under the new ownership, the organization has expanded to 300 journalists from 75 countries around the world and 60% racial and ethnic diversity. Malappuram: Independent Kerala legislator P V Anvar, arrested for allegedly vandalising the District Forest Office (DFO) in Nilambur, was granted bail by the Nilambur Judicial First Class Magistrate Court on Monday. According to police, the Nilambur MLA vandalised the office during a protest against the death of a tribal man, Mani, who was killed in an elephant attack in the district. A police team arrested Anvar at his residence in Othayi on Sunday night. Speaking to the media, Anvar criticised the arrest, describing it as "administrative terrorism." I was treated like a gangster, with the police creating a terror-like situation. If I had been served a notice, I would have willingly appeared, Anvar said. He also accused Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of orchestrating the arrest, claiming it fulfilled the CMs personal vendetta. The MLA said he would abide by the law but issued a stern warning: If I survive imprisonment, I will show what would happen. Anvar, who represents the Nilambur constituency, recently left the CPI(M)-led LDF after accusing the Left government and CM Vijayan of corruption. ADVERTISEMENT Protest over elephant attack Earlier, Anvar criticised the state government and the forest department over the death of Mani, alleging negligence in addressing man-animal conflicts. Workers of the Democratic Movement of Kerala (DMK), led by Anvar, protested outside the forest office, blaming wildlife officials for failing to prevent such incidents. Police said about 10 protesters trespassed into the North DFO office and vandalised the premises. Television footage showed DMK workers pushing policemen and damaging office property. Police action and legal charges An FIR filed by Nilambur police stated that around 40 protesters staged a sit-in, with 10 of them later trespassing into the DFO office and damaging furniture. The group was also accused of obstructing public servants, including police officers. Anvar and 10 others were booked under various sections of the IPC and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act. Following the case registration, police arrived at Anvars residence to arrest him. Supporters of the MLA protested at the site, raising slogans against the CM and the police. Political reactions The arrest drew criticism from Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala, who termed it administrative terrorism. There was no justification for arresting an MLA at midnight for participating in a protest. This is a serious lapse by the police, Chennithala said. Meanwhile, State Forest Minister A K Saseendran defended the arrest, stating it was carried out lawfully and unrelated to other incidents. The police action is in accordance with the law, Saseendran said. Anvar also alleged that post-mortem procedures for Mani were delayed intentionally and accused the forest minister of failing to visit the bereaved family. He described the protests as a natural emotional reaction to the tragedy. Black on Red: My 44 Years Inside the Soviet Union by Robert Robinson This unforgettable memoir recounts the life of Robert Robinson, a Jamaican-trained tool maker who spent the first third of his life in the U.S., Jamaica, and Cuba, and the last two-thirds (44 years) in the USSR. At the age of 21, in 1920, Robinson migrated to the U.S. with his mother and younger brother. Despite his engineering training in Cuba, he faced racial discrimination in the U.S. and was denied the opportunity to work as an engineer. Undeterred, Robinson followed up on job ads that touted engineering positions in the auto industry. However, he was rejected again in Detroit, for the same reason, because of his race. A white career counselor suggested that listing his training as "janitor" might help him get a job. Robinson took the advice and was hired immediately. Through hard work and determination, after three years, he worked his way up to a machinist-trainee position at the Ford Motor Company. Since he was already a journeyman machinist with more experience than his white counterparts, Robinson spent a significant amount of his time dealing with racist harassment from them. His tormentors aimed to reduce him back to his racial place as a Negro janitor, forever limiting his opportunities. However, Robinson's superior skills and work ethic eventually caught the attention of a Russian trade delegation visiting the company specifically to recruit American engineers. The delegation's interest in Robinson led to his selection, along with several dozen white machinists. They all signed lucrative yearly contracts to travel and work as industrial engineers and engineering trainers in the USSR. It later became evident that this Russian recruitment program was part of a larger Stalinist Communist purge of White Russians from ranks of power in the Soviet bureaucracy and industry. Robinson and his white colleagues were the first Americans to benefit from this post-revolutionary "political score-settling" between Red and White Russians. It offered a significant advantage for this fortunate group, as it allowed them to enjoy lucrative jobs abroad while the Great Depression raged unabated in America. During his first year in Russia, Robinson's only real challenge on the job was the persistent racial harassment he faced from fellow white Americans. Despite refusing to eat or room with him, they nevertheless continued to harass him. Robert Robinson seemed to be living rent free inside their racist heads. Already resentful of his selection to the program, and envious of his superior professional skills, now that they were all attending Communist Party-organized social functions, they had yet a new reason to resent him: his exceptional dancing abilities. As a result of being an excellent dancer, Russian women treated him with respect and even flocked to him at parties if only to be introduced to the latest popular American dances. But this new attention only fueled the hatred and rage his racist American cohorts already felt for him. They became increasingly agitated and their rage flew out of control when two of them tried to kill him. Fortunately, the Russian police intervened and foiled this attempt, saving his life. The two Americans were arrested and tried. Both were found guilty and expelled from the program, returning to the United States disgraced as persona non grata. After the verdict, the case gained attention in Pravda, Russia's largest newspaper, and briefly made Robinson a cause ce'lebre. The harassment also ceased. While this level of notoriety was not what he had sought, Robinson could not help but notice the stark contrast between how each country had handled the racial harassment he had faced. In the United States, the racial harassment was ignored and allowed to persist, festering across national borders into Russia. In contrast, the Russian police had acted decisively, and the Russian courts swiftly followed this up, administering a form of justice rarely found for blacks in America. Together, the Russian police and courts had effectively ended the racial harassment once and for all. Owing to this outcome, Robert was convinced more than ever that Russia would protect his rights better than America would. Consequently, he renewed his contract for a second year. But little did he know at the time that signing a new contract based solely on the analysis of that one race-based incident would be the biggest mistake of his life. For what appeared to be swift and fair justice -- a combination of quick police action and prompt judicial action -- was actually a cruel propaganda hoax, a Communist Party ruse, a stunt orchestrated by the state at Robinson's expense. It would take Robert Robinson 44 years to recover from this error in judgment about the true nature of the Soviet system. Immediately upon signing the new contract, his life took a dark turn. Without his consent, Robinson's American passport and citizenship were confiscated and revoked, replaced by Russian versions of the same. Overnight, and against his will, Robinson went from being a protected foreigner with all the rights and privileges afforded foreign passport holders, to mandated Soviet citizenship. In an instant, his American citizenship was irreversibly revoked, and he was no longer free to leave Russia. Only after signing the new contract did Robinson fully comprehend the implications of his actions and the magnitude of what he had done to himself. His preoccupation with his racial identity had in fact placed him at the very bottom of the Russian societal hierarchy: He was not a Communist party member, the highest rung on the ladder; nor was he a foreigner with the privileges of a foreign passport, the second highest rung. Instead, he had become a Russian citizen, but not in the traditional sense. He was a foreigner who had been assigned Russian citizenship by fiat, the absolute bottom rung of the societal ladder. As soon as he signed the second-year contract, the door to the open-air Stalinist prison system known as Russia had slammed shut behind him. For the next 44 years, Robert Robinson descended into the depths of Stalin's Communist grinding machine, where every aspect and every minute of his life was now under complete surveillance and state control. A single misstep could result in his imprisonment in the gulag or a swift execution. Many times over the next four decades, Robert Robinson asked himself whether freedom from racist harassment was as important as freedom from arbitrary state-sanctioned terror? The answer was clear, and always the same, no. But there was nothing he could do about it now. His only respite from this pervasive, intimate, and personal terror was his work. However, as the hardships of World War II emerged, Robinson's infatuation with revolutionary Russia had long since come to a complete end. It took some time for him to realize that Russia always had been a rigidly enforced police state. Its society was a Potemkin facade, primarily driven by propaganda and intimidation. Only those who joined the Communist Party had temporary respite and some protection, while those like Robinson were left to the wolves. During those tumultuous war years when hunger gnawed at the bellies of everyone, and countless lives were sacrificed as mere fodder for Hitler's relentless war machine, Robinson's work was repeatedly recognized for its invaluable contribution to the Russian war effort. This recognition brought him a sense of honor, pride, and a glimmer of peace of mind. However, it was far from sufficient. His heart yearned to reunite with his brother and mother before she succumbed to the ravages of time. Occasionally, he was paraded around like a trained seal, compelled to regale black American entertainers traveling through Russia, with tales of the supposedly benevolent Soviet system. In the early years of his enforced exile, the parties organized for these staged demonstrations, even with the lying and deception, were more enjoyable than painful. At least at these gatherings, he had the privilege of meeting and greeting a number of renowned individuals, including Paul Roberson. However, as the years passed and he tirelessly sought their assistance in escaping Russia, their refusals only deepened his despair, serving as a stark reminder of the gravity of his decision, the protracted duration of his predicament, and the escalating desperation of his situation. It simply reinforced the obvious unwavering conviction that escape was nearly impossible. What Robinson endured for the remainder of his exile was a confluence of racism Soviet style, a general disdain for foreigners, and a specific animosity towards not being a member of the Communist Party. Individuals who found themselves at this unfortunate convergence were truly the outcasts of Soviet society. While it was undeniable that Robinson had the opportunity to meet esteemed figures in the government and world-class entertainers who visited, he was also subjected to constant surveillance, discouraged from engaging in romantic relationships with Russian women, repeatedly overlooked for promotions, and never granted the privilege of leaving the country. As time wore him down, it ignited within him an intense yearning to seize any remaining opportunity he could to escape Russia. It took him an arduous four decades before he managed to secure a vacation visa to Uganda, where he defected and eventually found his way back to the United States. What an extraordinary odyssey. Five stars. DeSoto-Hernando-1791. (Image by Wikipedia (commons.wikimedia.org), Author: Grabado de Juan Brunetti por dibujo de Jose Maea) Details Source DMCA Part Two: Christopher Columbus and the Violent Spanish Looting of the Americas Today is January 6, 2025. On this date four years ago a vile, shameless, and greedy skunk, Donald Trump -- who had just befouled both the White House and our nation for four years -- fomented a violent insurrection in a failed attempt to retain power after being trounced by Joe Biden in the November 2020 presidential election. Notwithstanding Trump's lies designed to whitewash his failed insurrection, it is a day that will live in infamy. Unfortunately, rather than receiving justice and rotting in jail, Trump had been reelected, thanks to the dehumanized and morally depraved Christian White supremacists, who infamously cast their votes for a convicted felon, serial liar, sexual predator and ignoramus. Many of these pathetic souls even celebrate Trump's failed insurrection. But they are just the latest of a long line of Christian White supremacist ancestors whose greedy and violent actions have despoiled the Americas while dehumanizing themselves. In fact, the history of the Americas has been besmirched by violent Christian White supremacy ever since the fateful voyage, in 1492, of the self-proclaimed "Christ bearer," Christopher Columbus. Although certainly a violent Christian White supremacist, Columbus also was "a braggart, a bore, and a bit cracked" (Jacques Barzun, From Dawn to Decadence: 500 Years of Western Cultural Life, 1500 to the Present, Harper Collins, 2000, p. 98). Cracked? Yes! "Columbus hoped to convert the Asians to Christianity and to recruit their bodies and their wealth to assist Europeans in a final crusade to crush Islam and reclaim Jerusalem. Such a victory would then invite Christ's return to earth to reign over a millennium of perfect justice and harmony" (American Colonies" The Settling of North America, Alan Taylor, Penguin, 2001, p. 33). In his book, 1493: Uncovering the New World Columbus Created, (Vintage, 2012), Charles C. Mann tells us that "Scholars had known for more than fifteen hundred years that the world was large and round." Columbus, "disputed both facts." He believed the planet was shaped like a pear and had a circumference at least five thousand miles smaller than it actually is (p.42). Although incapable of using quadrants and astrolabes, Columbus relied on past experiences at sea, dead reckoning, and the North Equatorial Current to stumble upon an island in the Bahamas that he named San Salvador. He incorrectly "concluded that he had reached an island or peninsula on the outskirts of China" (Columbus: The Four Voyages, 1492-1504, by Laurence Bergreen, Penguin, 2011, p. 6). Although, "No comparable figure in the age of discovery was so mistaken as to his whereabouts" (Ibid., p. 7), it was a delusion he held his entire life. Columbus eventually settled in Hispaniola, largely populated at the time by one million Taino Indians, who he viewed as ripe fodder for enslavement and exploitation in his obsessive search for gold. Due to a subordinate's negligence, a mere boy was permitted to guide the Santa Maria while the adults slept off a drunken Christmas Eve celebration. And guide it he did! Directly into three coral reefs. When it became clear that the ship could not be saved, it was torn apart so that the wood could be used to build a fortress, called La Navidad. Fearful that this disaster would taint his voyage and potentially prevent him from leading future voyages, cunning and heartless Columbus ordered thirty-nine members of his crew to remain at La Navidad, while he returned to Spain. Perhaps the remaining two ships could not have accommodated the entire crew. Nevertheless, that decision ensured one future return voyage to Hispaniola, because only he and his crew knew where La Navidad was located. Instead of criticism, the fortress at La Navidad was touted throughout Western Europe as the first settlement in the New World. Historians subsequently would dub that voyage as the beginning of the monumentally transformational "Columbian Exchange," which saw Old World flora, fauna, and diseases transferred to the New World, and New World flora, fauna, and diseases transferred to the Old. Pope Alexander VI seized upon the sensations caused by Columbus's "Letter on the First Voyage," (which was riddled with lies and exaggerations), to issue four Papal Bulls which had the effect of arrogantly dividing the New World between Spain and Portugal. "The bulls were based on the assumption that Christian nations could, by divine right, claim title to newly discovered non-Christian lands and their peoples" (Ibid., p 121). Things went less well for the Christian White supremacist during his subsequent three voyages. On his second voyage, Columbus found that La Navidad had been burned to the ground and all thirty-nine crew members were dead. His harsh retaliatory measures and heartless exploitation led to widespread unrest, mass suicide, and even opposition from other Spaniards. He also enslaved "five hundred and fifty souls " around two hundred and fifty of [whom] died" before reaching Spain, and he cast those who died "into the sea" (The Discovery of America: Native Peoples and the Unmaking of U. S. History, Ned Blackhawk, Yale, 2023, p. 22). After his third voyage, Columbus was arrested, placed in chains, put in the hold of a ship, and returned to Spain. Released and permitted a fourth voyage, shipworms forced him to scuttle his last two ships, bind them together as a fortress in Jamaica, and await an improbable rescue, lest he be lost to the ages. Surrounded by Indians, he waited a year before a rescue ship miraculously appeared. The Taino of Hispaniola fared far worse. Although many died at the hands of the Spanish, disease played a major role in reducing the population from one million in 1492 to approximately 46,000 by 1512. Unable to be contained, disease spread rapidly across the Caribbean and into mainland Central America and South America. It often preceded the arrival of Spanish conquistadors, who would spread it further. Inspired by Columbus, "During the sixteenth century, the New World drew about 250,000 Spanish emigrants to the Americas" (Taylor, p. 61). Many of these Spaniards married or had sex with Indians. Their offspring were called mestizos. In North America, the Spaniards established a colony in New Mexico in 1598 on the backs of the Pueblo Indians. Provoked to revolt in 1680, the Pueblos sent a force of nearly 17,000 natives against the colonists, forcing the latter to flee to El Paso. Eventually, the Spaniards recovered. But the revolt was "the greatest setback that natives ever inflicted on European expansion in North America" (Ibid., p. 89). Earlier, in 1565, they established a fortified town in Florida named St. Augustine, which became the first enduring colonial town in what became known as the United States (Ibid., p. 77). Next Page 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). Tripyala.com a new travel website launched on the first day of 2025, will enable travelers to book flights, hotels and holiday packages online within India and Internationally. January 4, 2025 - Tripyala.com, a newly launched online travel platform, is set to accept flight, hotel bookings for travelers to explore the world. Catering to both domestic and international travelers, Tripyala offers an all-in-one solution for booking air tickets, hotels, and holiday packages. Berlin, November 28, 2024 - It is a groundbreaking work that cleverly combines quality management and psychology and sets new standards: "GMP Audits and Inspections - The Psychological Component". The author of the work is Timur Guvercinci, whose company, TGMP-Consulting, is active in consulting and project work for the pharmaceutical and medical industries. The book offers well-founded psychological insights and practical strategies to make audits more effective. The new textbook Zurich, Switzerland - 05.01.2025 - The music industry stands at the brink of a new revolution, and Tunetu is leading the charge. Combining the power of artificial intelligence (AI) with human expertise, Tunetu offers a groundbreaking platform where influencers, brands, and individuals can create custom music, unlock new revenue streams, and reshape their digital presence. Breaking Down Barriers in Music Production For decades, the music industry has been dominated by exclusivity-accessible only A driver died after crashing a car into a pole in North Portland Saturday, police said. Officers responded to reports of a single-car crash at the intersection of North Willamette Boulevard and Burr Avenue around 11 p.m. and found a car that had crashed into a pole, the Portland Police Bureau said in a statement. Paramedics soon arrived and took the driver to a hospital, where the person died, police said. Police have not released the drivers name or any details of the crash. The death was the first traffic fatality in Portland this year, police said. Fedor Zarkhin is a breaking news and enterprise reporter. Do you have a story? Reach him by phone or text at 971-373-2905 or by email at fzarkhin@oregonian.com. Our journalism needs your support. Subscribe today to OregonLive.com A pickup truck crashed through the front doors of a convenience store in Dallas, Oregon, on Saturday night and continued driving around the store, smashing through shelves and destroying merchandise. Surveillance footage from inside Center Market shows a black pickup truck plow straight through the stores doors and then thump into the back wall. A man wearing only shorts gets out of the truck and walks through the store before getting back in the drivers seat and driving the truck into rows of shelves and other parts of the store, over and over, until the truck is obscured, apparently by dust and debris. Local news reports identify the suspect as John Louis Marlas, 34, of Monmouth. He also reportedly stole merchandise from the market during the incident, Dallas city officials said in a statement. A police officer soon arrived at the store, on Fairview Avenue, and used his patrol car to block the trucks exit. The suspect drove into the patrol car multiple times, officials said. No one was injured, according to the citys statement. Eventually, police took the man into custody. He faces charges of reckless endangering and reckless driving, robbery in the first degree, criminal mischief in the first degree, theft in the first degree and driving under the influence of intoxicants. Officials said police are investigating the incident as a possible bias crime, adding: The Singh family stores and employees have been a valuable part of the Dallas community for many years. Marlas was convicted in 2021 of criminal mischief in the second degree, and he was ordered to go to the Oregon State Hospital for treatment, according to court documents. If you dont help me Im gonna kill someone, a witness reported Marlas saying during the 2021 disturbance near a pizza restaurant in Monmouth. In December of 2024, Marlas was arrested and charged with menacing and disorderly conduct in the second degree, court records show. He has pleaded not guilty to those charges. -- The Oregonian/OregonLive; dperry@oregonian.com Last Januarys ice and snowstorms turned Portland-area theatergoing into a shivering, slippery mess. (Due to the extreme weather, the Broadway in Portland series ended up saying Hakuna Ma-ta-ta to eight performances of The Lion King.) This winters La Nina forecast means wetter-but-hopefully-better trekking to these 10 must-see shows, ranging from a steamy Tennessee Williams revival to an angelic original musical from Triangle Productions and the return of a biographical Broadway phenomenon that may recharge your faith in democracy. Meghan Daaboul plays Blanche and Max Bernsohn is Stanley in Imago Theatre's production of "A Streetcar Named Desire."Jerry Mouawad A Streetcar Named Desire Imago Theatre Just imagine what Imago can do with Tennessee Williams classic potboiler. Known for its highly kinetic, abstract and sometimes puppeted productions, the Southeast Portland theater company could employ stilts, masks, ropes, ladders and even slides. Or picture Blanche Dubois and Stanley and Stella Kowalski as leapfrogging amphibians, a la Imagos perennial crowd-pleaser ZooZoo. Unlikely interpretative choices, sure. Imago co-founder Jerry Mouawad, who directs this surprising winter choice for the company, is aiming for anything but a museum piece. The keys? First, know the texture, he said. Then, delve into the intimacy of the characters and the space, and assemble a scenic team that could create the kind of set that would push the characters into each other so that the passion, pain and the beauty and the violence are unavoidable. Know before you go: Imago slapped an R rating on its racy revival. Jan. 17-Feb.2; Imago Theatre, 17 S.E. Eighth Ave.; imagotheatre.com. Portland Center Stage presents "Mrs. Harrison" by R. Eric Thomas.Portland Center Stage Mrs. Harrison Portland Center Stage Two collegiate frenemies casually catch up in the ladies room during their graduating classs 10-year reunion. Before long, their witty verbal volleying escalates into a ferocious battle of words, revealing long-tempered resentments. Portland Center Stage had originally scheduled Jocelyn Biohs Jajas African Hair Braiding for its winter slot. Financial challenges forced a programming pivot away from that 10-actor production to this well-regarded two-hander from R. Eric Thomas, whose advice column Asking Eric runs Monday-Saturday in The Oregonians digital and print editions. Jan. 19-Feb. 16; U.S. Bank Main Stage at the Armory, 128 N.W. 11th Ave.; www.pcs.org/mrs-harrison. Samsara kicks off Profiles full season dedicated to Lauren Yee's canon, along with other plays that inspired it.Xanthe Elbrick Samsara Profile Theatre Playwright Lauren Yee wove the Sanskrit word for continuous flow samsara into a cross-continental comedy about an American couple, an Indian surrogate and a child, who may or may not represent Western colonialism. Portland Center Stage, Artists Repertory Theatre, Oregon Shakespeare Festival and Profile Theatre have traded off staging Lees works in the last few years. Samsara kicks off Profiles full season dedicated to her canon, along with other plays that inspired it. Jan. 23-Feb. 9; the lobby at Artists Repertory Theatre, 1515 S.W. Morrison St.; profiletheatre.org/samsara/. Jennifer Davies, Nate Ayers, Richaun Stewart, and Jennifer Lynn Teel in '8-Track: The Sounds of the '70s' at Broadway Rose Theatre Company, Jan. 23 - Feb. 16, 2025.Fletcher Wold/Broadway Rose Theatre Company 8-Track: The Sounds of the 70s In Concert' Broadway Rose Theatre Company Plunging into yacht rock, disco, folk, soul and melodic pop ballads, the multifarious score for this musical blast back to the Me Generation shuffles around like a swinger at a blindfolded key party. Four performers interpret 50 of the eras biggest hits. Theres no story per se; but the mellow notes of the Carpenters, the funky jams of the Commodores and the fevered dancefloor beats of the Bee Gees are loosely spun around themes of love, heartache, war, feminism and whatever the heck Convoy was supposed to convey. Unless youre an emotional brick house, these nostalgic nuggets will light up your life from the night of the show to the morning after. Some of the more wistful numbers may move you to tears; but remember, dont cry out loud. Presented at the Tigard theater companys intimate New Stage, this sentimental stroll makes for a romantic date night or catch a matinee for a little afternoon delight. Jan. 23-Feb. 16; Broadway Rose Theatre New Stage, 12850 S.W. Grant Ave., Tigard; broadwayrose.org. JC: Gospel According to an Angel Triangle Productions Even after 35 years, Triangle Productions founder and prolific playwright Don Horn is finding fresh ways to change things up. The pivotal pieces hes penned include a knee-slapping rock opera concerning Tonya Harding and Nancy Kerrigan; a music-fueled profile of Portlands premiere drag queen, Darcelle; and an ever-evolving oeuvre of one-actor shows spotlighting hidden figures whove shaped LGBTQ+ history. For his new musical, Horn turned his gaze to the heavens, examining the often contradictory and vexing relationship between spiritual faith and holy text. Portland composer Michael Allen Harrison contributed to the celestial score. Feb. 6-22; The Sanctuary at Sandy Plaza, 1785 N.E. Sandy Blvd.; trianglepro.org. The Guy Who Didnt Like Musicals' Chapel Theatre You dont want to sit next to this dude. He doesnt cry when the cheetahs, rhinos and elephants parade through the aisles in The Lion King; doesnt scream when the chandelier crashes down in The Phantom of the Opera; doesnt gasp when Elphaba defies gravity in Wicked; and doesnt become one singular sensation in the showstopping finale of A Chorus Line. Paul Matthews is that guy. The star character of this zany roast of sci-fi movies and stage musicals, Paul and his entire town transform into hoofin, Broadway-ballad-beltin musical theater lovers after showtune-obsessed space aliens crash land on earth. Feb. 14-March 9; Chapel Theatre, 4107 S.E. Harrison St., Milwaukie; chapeltheatremilwaukie.com. Notes From the Field Portland Playhouse Acclaimed actor and playwright Anna Deavere Smiths unique mashups of journalism and theater first appeared on stage 30-plus years ago. While Fires in the Mirror and Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992 examined racial unrest in Brooklyn and Los Angeles specifically, this 2015 collection of monologues, distilled from hundreds of interviews with educators, parents, students and community crusaders, presents a national view of what Smith terms is a school-to-prison pipeline for too many students of color. Actor Ramona Lisa Alexander tackles the varied voices urging reform. Feb. 19-March 30; Portland Playhouse, 602 N.E. Prescott St.; portlandplayhouse.org. Sapience Artists Repertory Theatre For those who made it all the way through the disturbing HBO documentary Chimp Crazy this past summer, playwright Diana Burbanos sweet simian story provides a calmer, more nuanced glimpse into the research and care of captive big apes. Keep your eye on actor Barbie Wu, who anthropomorphically brings to life Wookie, the exceptionally intelligent and communicative orangutang centering this uplifting tale illustrating love and connection. Feb. 23-March 23; Artists Repertory Theatre, 1515 S.W. Morrison St.; artistsrep.org/performance/sapience-2/. Agatha Christies The Mousetrap' Experience Theatre Project Because Experience Theatre Project stages, well, stage-less shows, nailing down a permanent rehearsal and performance space has been murder. The company made a real estate killing when it recently snagged a roomy warehouse in Aloha, so its only fitting that the first production in its new home is Agatha Christies enduring drawing room thriller. Like all Experience Theatre Project shows, The Mousetrap is presented immersively. Once youve taken your seat within the sprawling set, youll be surrounded by criminal activity, clues, red herrings and seven potential suspects. Feb. 28-April 6; Experience Theatre Project, 18850 S.W. Alexander St.; www.experiencetheatreproject.org. Nathan Haydel, Tyler Fauntleroy, Jared Howelton, Elvie Ellis and Company in "Hamilton National Tour."Joan Marcus Hamilton Broadway in Portland My hair stylist nearly dropped her thinning shears when I texted her asking if shed be my plus-one when Lin-Manuel Mirandas hip-hop juggernaut first came through Portland in 2018. The experience was exhilarating we whooped, whistled and couldnt stop clapping. Hamilton was one of the very few times a touring production matched its in this case astronomical hype. After a decade and more than 3,000 performances on Broadway, international productions from London to Manila and a filmed version for Disney+, the multi-Tony Award-winner still pulls in newbies and repeat Hamilfans alike. Both will be vying for prime seats when the founding father and his rapping revolutionaries drop anchor in Portland for a three-week run at Keller Auditorium. March 4-23; Keller Auditorium, 222 S.W. Clay St.; portland.broadway.com/shows/hamilton-2. Lee Williams, special for The Oregonian/OregonLive The Biden administration awarded its third and final national semiconductor research site to Arizona State University on Monday, rejecting pleas from Oregon and Intel to put the site in Hillsboro. The decision is no surprise Oregon officials had felt for many weeks that the states chances were evaporating. Tacitly acknowledging that, Gov. Tina Kotek dropped her plan to allocate farmland near Hillsboro for the project late last month. Portlands first full work week of 2025 kicks off Monday with a drying trend courtesy of a ridge of high pressure expected to build across the Pacific Northwest and linger into the latter part of the week. The National Weather Service says the ridge is likely to dominate weather patterns through at least Thursday afternoon or Friday morning bringing dry skies and seasonally average temperatures into the early part of January. The weekends rain has moved east of the Cascades as of early Monday, and its possible some fog will build into the metro area to kick off the morning commute. A quick check of traffic cameras as of 5:30 a.m. didnt show any metro area fog. Once any fog or low clouds clear, Portland should see a mostly sunny Monday with a high temp of about 53 degrees. The early portion of the week looks much the same with partly sunny skies both Tuesday and Wednesday, and high temps in the upper 40s or low 50s. Extended forecasts show another dry day Thursday with mostly sunny skies and a high near 51, but the next major system looking to impact our region moves in later Thursday. A series of fronts is expected to move southward from the Alaskan Panhandle dragging rain and cooler temps with it. The timing of the fronts is still uncertain, but most forecast models agree rain will move back into western Oregon by Friday. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 6. ITOCHU Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, has announced the establishment of FORJ Co., Ltd. in partnership with Mukai Kogyo Co., Ltd., based in Ehime Prefecture, Trend reports via the company. The move is part of ITOCHUs strategy to strengthen its Japanese cedar lumber business targeting the growing North American market. As part of the agreement, ITOCHU will acquire Mukai Kogyos production facilities and assets related to Japanese cedar lumber. This initiative comes amid increasing calls to expand the use of domestically produced logs and lumber, particularly as cedar and hinoki trees planted during Japan's economic boom over 50 years ago have now matured and are ideal for harvesting. For years, ITOCHU has sourced lumber from Mukai Kogyo, distributing the products in North America through its subsidiaries, ALTA Forest Products LLC and Master Halco, Inc. With the establishment of FORJ Co., ITOCHU plans to enhance the development, production, and export of high-quality cedar lumber products to meet rising demand in the North American construction and building materials market. The new venture will focus on improving existing production facilities acquired from Mukai Kogyo and exploring opportunities to expand its production base to meet growing demand. This initiative aligns with ITOCHUs management policy, The Brand-new Deal Opportunities Are Shifting Downstream, reflecting its commitment to responding to evolving consumer needs and reinforcing its position in the global building materials industry. With this expansion, the ITOCHU Group reaffirms its dedication to sustainability and leveraging Japans natural resources to fuel international markets while contributing to domestic industry growth. Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn Christianity Today has an interesting article up, written by Gordon Govier, under the title Top 10 Biblical Archaeology Stories of 2024: From a Mediterranean shipwreck to a mosaic on display in Washington, DC, these are the discoveries that made scholars of the biblical world say wow this year. I share two of them here: 4. Redating a Jerusalem Wall A wall once attributed to King Hezekiah is now thought to have been built earlier by King Uzziah. This indicates that Jerusalem was expanding even before a flood of refugees arrived after the Assyrian conquest of the northern kingdom of Israel in 732 BC. While that reassessment adds valuable insight into the history of the city, its also a powerful example of what can be done with a creative combination of complementary technology to establish absolute chronology. Radiocarbon dating, normally a boon to archaeology, doesnt work very well for objects made during the Iron Age, due to a cosmic phenomenon known as the Hallstatt Plateau. This has limited the precise dating of archaeological discoveries in Jerusalem during its time as capital of the united Kingdom of Israel and then Judah. For a decade, archaeologists have worked to combine radiocarbon results in four different excavation areas with a precise single-year timeline derived from dendrochronology, the study of tree rings. This has led to several redatings , including the wall now attributed to King Uzziah. A portion of the wall that has heretofore been ascribed to the efforts of Hezekiah is clearly visible in the Jewish quarter of Jerusalems Old City, and I regularly walk my tour groups past it and tell them, among other things, that it is the city wall that Lehi and Nephi would have known. It is also worth noting that Lehi (or, more likely, his immediate ancestors) could well have been a part of the influx of refugees that arrived in the area of Jerusalem around the time of the Assyrian conquest of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. The Book of Mormon describes his ancestry as deriving from Manasseh (see Alma 10:3), and the tribal inheritance of Manasseh was located in what eventually became the Northern Kingdom. There is, moreover, a distinct sense of distance, even alienation, in the narrative provided by 1 Nephi between Lehi and his family, on the one hand, and, on the other, the Jews among whom they lived. It is certainly conceivable, if Lehi emerged from a family that paid closer attention to the warnings of the prophets than the leaders and the general population of the Northern Kingdom generally did, that they might have fled southward even before the Assyrian conquest, just as 1 Nephi depicts Lehi and his own family as escaping the Southern Kingdom prior to its conquest by the Babylonians. A final thought on this ancient wall: You may recall that Joseph Smith, finding mention of Jerusalems wall in the Book of Mormon text that he was translating but personally unfamiliar with the idea of city walls neither Palmyra nor Manchester nor Harmony had one! asked his wife, Emma, whether Jerusalem really had a wall around it. When she assured him that it did, he felt much better. He had wondered whether he was being deceived. (See here.) 3. The Start of the Alphabet The earliest use of alphabetic writing has been pushed back 500 years through the discovery of four small fingers of clay in a tomb at Umm el-Marra in northern Syria. The tomb, which contained burials in gold and silver, was discovered in 2004 and carbon-dated to 2400 BC, the Early Bronze Age, when Umm el-Marra was a crossroad of trade routes between Aleppo and the Euphrates River. Johns Hopkins University archaeologist Glenn Schwartz was positive about the dating but came slowly to the conclusion that he had found actual alphabetical writing. He went public with his conclusion at Novembers annual meeting of the American Society of Overseas Research. Previously, scholars thought the alphabet was invented in or around Egypt sometime after 1900 BCE, Schwartz said. But our artifacts are older and from a different area on the map, suggesting the alphabet may have an entirely different origin story than we thought. Numerous references to writing in the Old Testament seem to indicate a level of literacy that archaeology has been slow to support. But recent developments, including the discovery that topped CTs 2022 archaeology list, are providing a fuller picture of early literacy. A relatively late date for the invention of alphabetic writing has been among the arguments that have been leveled against the reliability of the earliest biblical traditions and has, if Im not mistaken, been adduced against the historicity of the Book of Abraham. A substantially earlier origin for alphabetic writing certainly doesnt hurt believers who take a high view of the stories in Genesis and in Abraham. And I would point out what should already be obvious: It is highly improbable that the oldest discovered evidence for alphabetic writing represents the very first occurrence of alphabetic writing. No archaeologist is likely to be so lucky. And how could we know it if she were? Ive seen the argument many times, from both Evangelical Protestants and secularized former Latter-day Saints, that the teachings and standards of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints tend to foster unhealthy and guilt-ridden psychological responses among members of the Church. Thus, escape (or recovery) from the Church represents a health-bestowing, life-enhancing liberation. I dont doubt for a moment, of course, that some people (for any of a myriad of reasons) have responded and do respond to the doctrines and behavioral expectations of the Church in unhealthy ways. People react to all sorts of things in sub-optimal ways. But here is some interesting data and analysis from Justin Dyer and Michael Goodman: Does religion lead to more or less perfectionism? Contrary to widely-held perceptions, data shows committed Latter-day Saints are less likely to experience an unhealthy focus on perfection, compared with other groups. I located the article by Drs. Dyer and Goodman in the practically inexhaustible Christopher Hitchens Memorial How Religion Poisons Everything File. Read it and weep. From 2014 to 2015, the Archdiocese of Chicago ran a capital campaign called To Teach Who Christ Is. The Archdioceses purpose in the campaign was to generate $150 million for scholarships for Catholic schools, but in order to make the campaign palatable, each parish was instructed to come up with capital projects of some sort or another, so that an additional $150 million of the overall goal of $350 million was for the use of the individual parishes. (In my own parish, the money was used for deferred maintenance needs such as a new roof, windows, doors, etc.) It was promoted as historic and generational but in many respects, I should have realized at the time that a capital campaign which intends to spend its money on ongoing expenses such as school tuition, is not really a Capital Campaign. For that matter, I had assumed that the capital nature meant that the scholarship money would be going into an endowment, but according to Chicago Tribune reporting, back when this existed (July 28, 2019, via the ProQuest library archival tool), that early intention didnt actual happen, in part because of short-term needs and the large proportion of funds raised that came in the form of will bequests from people who havent died yet. However, at the time of this article, there are no plans for another major general fundraising campaign, according to Betsy Bohlen, the archdioceses COO. And before that campaign, there was a campaign in 2002 and 2003 called Sharing Christs Gifts for $220 million. At the time it was the biggest capital campaign ever, with fundraising goals set at 100% of a parishs annual collection. This campaigns funds largely stayed with the parishes, with only 20% going directly to the archdiocese (plus an undisclosed additional amount according to the Tribune), and did not appear to have a specific objective other than vaguely to force parishes to engage in deferred maintenance, but at the same time as this campaign ran, they also ran another campaign: The $100 million major-donors campaign will pump money directly into the city parochial schools that have proved to be one of the biggest drains on church coffers. Officials have tried to keep that effort under wraps, hoping to secure a large portion of the gifts before going public with the news. Were there other large-scale campaigns before this? If so, I cant find evidence of them. My impression from hints in articles is that individual churches ran their own campaigns as needed, and the Big Shoulders Fund for Catholic schools was an ongoing fund. But these two campaigns, marketed as once in a generation and calling for sacrificial levels of donations, seem to have been just the first two of what appears to now be a once-a-decade cadence, as I have just found out that yet another campaign has been going on since last year: Generation to Generation: Answering the Call. Wheres the money going now? 50% of the goal, or $100 million, will stay within the local parishes. Another $60 million is claimed to be to be used to answer the call to spiritually renew our parishes. Trying to parse the word salad here is difficult but it looks like they are funding consultants who will work with parishes on best practices for outreach and increasing parish involvement. $60 million is a lot for this, though, especially when there have been similar initiatives in the past (such as the Parish Transformation Initiative which I asked readers about in 2015 as my parish was apparently awaiting its turn and seems to have been discontinued shortly thereafter) maybe this actually funds new staff members in targeted parishes? Or is the archdiocese charging parishes large sums of money for their expertise, which is then directed to other Pastoral Center spending such as flashy donations by the cardinal, green energy, trips to Rome, etc. or filling in holes left by clerical abuse settlements? $100 million is going to support for priests of which $14 million to the seminary, $23 million to pastoral/professional development, and $63 million to retirement (pensions and healthcare). Im particularly annoyed at this last one because it says that they have been skimping on funding their pension funds despite the annual collection for the purpose. And lastly, $40 million will go to fund poor parishes operating costs. Im not seeing anything that looks like a good idea here. The archdiocese is essentially forcing parishes to defer their ongoing maintenance until the next Capital Campaign, or to come up with capital projects even when they arent appropriate, in order to get local parishes to accept this tax by the archdiocese. (Separately, Ive read that its 125% of annual collections.) And then they are spending this money on operating expenses. Is this all a matter of trying to force parishes to give more to the archdiocese even when they have communicated their dislike of Cupichs actions? How often can Cupich play that game? What happens if parishes just say no? How many capital projects can a parish conjure up? Or will they follow the cardinals demands but simply shore up their savings for future operating expenses? And, given the prior reporting, will the archdioceses take even go where they say it will? At a glance Expert's Rating Pros Clean, extremely simple interface Alternative ID lets you mask your whole identity, not just an email address VPN service is solid Cons Full scans hit PC performance hard Very few settings to adjust Not as many features as similarly priced rivals Our Verdict If VPN coverage is your first priority, and youre already sold on Surfsharks VPN, subscribing to Surfshark One will give access to seemingly adequate antivirus protection. However, if youre primarily in the market for antivirus software, youll get more bang for your buck with a different suiteand a rival wont hit your system performance nearly so hard. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Best Prices Today: Surfshark One Retailer Price Surfshark $55 View Deal Product Price Surfshark is well-known for its VPN service, but if you subscribe to its higher tier plans, antivirus gets included as part of the package, too. That can be a plus for those who already know and love Surfsharks interface, as the app is extremely clean and simple. But while Surfshark offers adequate malware protection, a couple of caveats make it a harder sell, especially if youre seeking lightweight, antivirus-focused security software. Surfshark One: What does it include? Pricing for a 12-month term. PCWorld Surfshark offers real-time scanning that hunts for malware, suspicious links, and dodgy email attachments; web protection that blocks dangerous links and remote access initiated by bad actors and unauthorized webcam access (currently a beta feature, but available to users). Additionally, system scans dig into vulnerable parts of your PC (like registry items) to look for oddities or changes. The Surfshark One suite also includes access to the companys VPN service (arguably the star of the showmore on that below), data breach monitoring, its alternative ID service that lets you create a profile with a fake email address, name, address, and birth date to feed to websites, and a private search engine. Unlike many security suites, Surfshark does not include a firewall as part of its software. If VPN coverage is your first priority (and youre already sold on Surfsharks VPN), subscribing to Surfshark One should expand your security protection to include seemingly adequate antivirus protection. Surfshark One: How much does it cost? Surfshark One supports up to five devices for antivirus and lets you install the software on Windows, macOS, and Android devices. For the VPN, you can install the software on unlimited devices and more platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and three browsers (Chrome, Firefox, and Edge). Surfshark One gets cheaper the more time you pay for upfront. If you buy a 12-month plan, it currently costs $55 for the first year, and includes four bonus months. If you buy a 24-month plan, it costs $70 for the first year and also includes four bonus months. Afterward, Surfshark will charge $79 per year (or whatever renewal price is most current). Two-year plans will revert to one-year plans for renewal. Otherwise, a monthly subscription is $18 per month. By default, users are enrolled in auto-renewal. Renewals are charged 30 days before the term refreshes. The company offers refunds if requested within the first 30 days of signup. Surfshark One: Key features Installation & account setup To install the Surfshark app, youll first need to create an account and purchase a subscriptionand the process can be slightly awkward. A standard passphrase from our password manager (e.g., correct-horse-battery-staple) wasnt accepted. We had to add a special character to meet the requirements. Also, you only enter the password once, so you can easily type in something different than you think you entered. Surfshark does allow password resets, but they can be quirky. After I performed one, trying the new password gave a There have been too many attempts to log in error message. I had to wait about five minutes before the new password worked. Once you have an account, youll use your login for the app and the web interface. User interface Surfsharks first screen (and tab in the left navigation bar) is for the VPN. PCWorld Currently, Surfsharks antivirus protection serves as an addition to its VPNnot the other way around, as with most antivirus suites. The apps layout puts the emphasis on the VPN: Its the first item in the left navigation bar, which fully slides out when you hover your mouse on that side of the window. The second and third tabs are for the Alternative ID and Alert features, which link to the web interface. Then finally comes Antivirus but you must first install the antivirus component of the software for your PC to be protected. If youre expecting antivirus protection from the start, this extra step can feel cumbersome (and a little annoying). Overall, the app is pared down and minimalistnot at all technical. Every screen is simple but clean and easy to understand. Theres no home screen or dashboard. For each feature, the window is divided into two sections, with a main center pane and a right-hand sidebar. The main area shows information related to the feature (e.g., scan options for antivirus) while the sidebar shows the features status (e.g., if scan is occurring and its progress). Surfshark puts all options in these screens, so you dont have to dig elsewhere. Also, in a nice touch, you can resize the window to see more (or less) information at once. Surfsharks antivirus screen. PCWorld Meanwhile, Surfsharks settings are sparse, especially in the app. The only real adjustment you can make to scans are if they automatically include external drives, for example. Outside of the options within each feature screen, you can really only tinker with the VPN. The companion web interface isnt much more robust. Though it mirrors the look of the app, with a similar layout of left navigation bar, main screen, and right sidebar, you primarily use it to manage just two features: Alternative ID and Alert. If you also subscribe to Surfsharks separate, optional Incogni data broker removal service (an additional $4 per month), youll control it via the web as well. However, the web interface does have a few more extended settings for featuresmanual VPN settings live here, as well as device management for antivirus coverage. It can be confusing at first, but with how simple Surfshark is, adapting to the split interfaces comes pretty quick. Virus, malware, and threat protection Real-time protection Like other antivirus software, Surfshark remains on alert for threats, both local and online. On your PC, it examines opened or added files, screens downloaded email for sketchy links and attachments (including .zip and other archive files), and watches for unusual behavior from apps. When youre online, the app stays on the lookout for malicious downloads, as well as suspicious links (including phishing attempts). Itll also block unauthorized use of your webcam, so long as you enable webcam protection, which is still a beta feature. Scheduled and manual scans Among the few options you can tweak for Surfsharks antivirus is the scheduled scan timing. PCWorld By default, Surfshark scans your system on a daily basis. A quick scan runs on six of the days, while a full scan happens on the seventh. Both are set for the time you first install the app. You can also perform an on-demand scanthis defaults to just the installed drive on your PC, unless youve turned on scans of external storage drives. You can also choose a specific file or folder. During both quick and full scans, Surfshark examines registry items, network settings, Windows boot sector, drivers (and affiliated areas), as well as often targeted folders (Downloads, Documents, Desktop). For a broader critical look at your files, run the full scan. For quick and full scans, you can adjust schedule and timing, but not what is scanned. Settings are also extremely minimalyou can choose to turn on automatic scanning of external storage drives during quick and full scans, automatic scanning of external storage drives when first connected, and if quarantined items are automatically deleted. VPN Surfsharks primary service is its virtual private network, which securely routes your traffic so that it registers as coming from a different location. (Useful if you want to remain anonymous, or look at content not available in your region.) Its antivirus is not available as an independent subscriptionrather, malware protection is an add-on feature as you move up to more expensive plans. You can read PCWorlds full thoughts on Surfsharks VPN in our review, but overall, the experience is mostly smooth and streamlined when it works. (More on that in just a moment.) You can use the VPN on an unlimited number of devices, and while active, the service automatically blocks ads and pop-ups, as well as cookie consent notifications. You also have the option to do multi-hop connections, which sends your online traffic through two VPN services for greater anonymity. If you need to run an app or access a website independent of the VPN, you can specifically set them to bypass it. For the VPNs advanced settings, you must head to the web portal. PCWorld I found that Surfshark didnt work at all locations. While on a Hilton hotels public Wi-Fi network, the app struggled (and effectively failed) to connect, citing limited access through the hotels network. Meanwhile, rival ProtonVPN connected immediately. When asked, Surfshark cited possible firewall rules, DNS filtering, or port management that could have blocked access to the VPN servers. For locations, you can choose dedicated servers in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkiye, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, and the United States. Additional virtual servers are available as well, though theyre of most use to those who care about location rather than privacy. Surfshark also makes clear in the app which are the fastest servers. Surfshark One: Additional features Alternative ID One of Surfsharks more unique features is Alternative ID, which not only creates masked email addresses but a whole false identity to help preserve your identity online. By default, these are randomly generated. For email masks, ten domains exist (the part that comes after @), with an oddly strong sea theme. Five of the domains are obviously based on fish names and the randomly generated usernames often use the name of an aquatic creature. Fortunately, you can manually edit the suggestions, in case youre aiming for a different vibe. Alternative ID is a unique feature that lets you mask your identity online, not just your email address. PCWorld For the identity, you get assigned a full name and address. (I became Hector, a guy living in Tasmania, Australia.) Like the email masks, you can edit what the app spins together, in case you want a different name, gender, or general locale. You cant choose a specific address, only the country and state/province, with just six countries as optionsthe US, Denmark, Australia, Germany, Portugal, and Brazil. The suggested addresses are realSurfshark says it uses a publicly available address database provided by governmental institutions. So if your home is part of a public database (and it very likely is), it could get used for someone elses fake identity. Surfshark also offers the ability to mask your phone number, but you must pay an additional subscription fee of $2.50 per month. Virtual phone numbers are limited to USA country codes, and can receive calls and text messages. You can reply to text messages through your virtual number but not return calls. Surfshark Alert Labeled simply Alert, this feature looks for appearances of your email addresses in data breachesas well as any leaked passwords, personal information, or IP addresses tied to a particular email address. For the Surfshark One subscription, you can track an unlimited number of email addresses. You can also monitor unlimited credit card and ID numbers (e.g., social security number) through this feature. Alerts are managed in the web interface, with several settings you can tweak related to data breach reports and data breach alerts. Surfshark Search Surfshark says its search feature relies on third-party APIs. PCWorld Surfshark offers a search engine that it says allows private searching for truly organic results. The company does not maintain the engine itself; instead it says it relies on third-party APIs. You can initiate a search from the web interface or the app, but ultimately, youll get pointed to https://search.surfshark.com/. You can just bookmark this address for use, though its only available if youre logged into your Surfshark account on that browser. Search results are generally streamlined, with a mix of sources that include Reddit posts and YouTube videos. You can choose between Web, Images, and Videos for result types, and also change the locale to a different country. If youre used to the additional helpful answers and suggested links from search engines like Google and Bing, Surfsharks results may feel a bit bare-bones. Surfshark One: Customer support You can access Surfsharks support and help pages through the app (Settings > Get help). From there, you can jump directly to popular support pages. Alternatively, you can head to the companys help and contact page. To get in touch with Surfshark, youll file a help request or use chat. From these settings, you can also run Surfsharks troubleshooting toolsCollect Diagnostics (which aids the Surfshark team in identifying issues), Reset network, and Restore original settings. Virus database updates happen automatically in the background every three hours, as well as every time a scan starts. You cant otherwise adjust the timing, though you can manually check for new virus definitions. Surfshark One: Performance Currently, Surfshark does not have data for the most recent tests from AV-Test and AV-Comparatives, two independent security organizations who evaluate antivirus software performance. However, in AV-Tests zero-day exploit and malware tests for May and June 2024, Surfshark took home perfect scores. It caught 100 percent of the 225 zero-day attack samples and 14,498 widespread and prevalent malware samples. (Note: Antivirus software companies voluntarily elect to participate in AV-Tests benchmarks. When asked about its participation frequency, Surfshark said: We dont see the need to perform these every couple of months, as these tests are exactly the same month over month with just different malware samples. We normally perform these tests when we see a change in the malware landscape, or we want to test a new backend feature and verify the improved performance independently). Surfshark last elected to be evaluated by AV-Test in June 2024. PCWorld When left to run in the background, Surfshark affects system performance fairly little. The real-time scanner only caused under a two percent decrease for the score in PCMark 10, which simulates video conferencing, web browsing, and editing in open-source document and image apps. Similarly, in our Handbrake encode test, which involves crunching down a large video into a smaller 1080p30 file, the increase in time to complete the task was also under two percent. Surfsharks screening does increase when editing documents in Microsoft Office programs like Word, Excel, and PowerPointULs Procyon benchmark scores dropped by almost nine percent. On the flip side, Surfshark can drag hard on your PCs resources during full scans. On our budget laptop, running a continuous scan dropped PCMark 10 scores by a notable 36 percentand that was the smallest impact. Procyon results decreased by a whopping 53 percent, and Handbrake encodes shot up in time needed by a painful 72 percent. Of course, you can mitigate this effect by changing the schedule of system scans (especially full scans) to happen during off-hours. And with this much of an effect, you definitely want to steer clear of scan timeswhich could be a potential issue for those who are active on their PCs for most hours of a day. Surfshark One: Is it worth it? If VPN coverage is your first priority (and youre already sold on Surfsharks VPN), subscribing to Surfshark One should expand your security protection to include seemingly adequate antivirus protection. However, if youre primarily in the market for antivirus software, youll get more bang for your buck with a different suiteand a rival wont hit your system performance nearly so hard. About seven years after the HDMI 2.1 specification was introduced, the HDMI Forum has announced the next generation: HDMI 2.2, which will require new cables to take advantage of its most high-performance features. It will not require a new connector, though, thankfully. Though the HDMI Forum is officially calling the new specification HDMI 2.2, the accompanying cable will also receive a new name: Ultra96. All told, the selling point of both the Ultra96 cable and HDMI 2.2 specification are the increased bandwidth, which doubles the HDMI 2.1 bandwidth from 48Gbps to a staggering 96Gbps. At this point, however, the HDMI Forum is only talking conceptually about the new specification. Companies who are part of the new HDMI adopter program will receive the full specifications in the first half of 2025, Forum representatives said at CES 2025 in Las Vegas. However, the Forum is promising a next-gen HDMI Fixed Rate Link technology and higher resolutions and faster refresh rates, though the Forum isnt offering specifics. A new Latency Indication Protocol is designed to improve audio-video syncing, especially in TV applications where the sound has to pass from the TV to the soundbar or satellite speakers. Faster 96Gbps bandwidth improves demanding data-intensive, immersive and virtual applications such as AR/VR/MR, spatial reality and light field displays as well as various commercial applications such as large scale digital signage, medical imaging and machine vision, the Forum added. HDMI Forum Even after the specification is released, however, it will take some time for both cables and logic to support the new standard. Remember, HDMI 2.1 supports uncompressed single-display resolution of 8K at 60Hz with 8-bit color depth at 4:2:0 chroma, and the same cables support compression at 10K120 resolution at 12-bit color depths. For most users, HDMI 2.1 is already too much. You will need an upgraded cable if your PC or TV supports the new HDMI 2.2 specification and you want to enjoy its full capabilities. Alternatively, users have the choice of using DisplayPort, which was upgraded from DisplayPort 2.0 to DisplayPort 2.1 in 2022, tightening the specification for USB 4. In January 2024, DisplayPort added the 2.1a specification, whose bandwidth tops out at 80Gbps. The HDMI Forum already provides a labeling program identifying cables as Ultra High Speed, with an accompanying HTML glyph that consumers can access with a smartphone camera to verify. The Forum showed an illustration of an Ultra96 Certified Cable where users can do the same. So far, neither cable or device makers have come forward to support the new standard. But its virtually an inevitability, sometime in the future. Jasco, the maker of some of our favorite smart lights, is at CES this week to show off its latest smart plugs and wall switches, all of which come with a key feature: Matter support. Jasco is also debuting a new set of indoor accent wall lights that can be controlled via the brands Enbrighten app or an RF remote; plus, a new entry in its Eternity outdoor light series. Matter smart plugs and switches An early proponent of the smart home-unifying Matter standard, Jasco has already released several Matter-enabled light bulbs, and now the manufacturer is following up with a series of Matter-ready smart plugs and wall switches. Slated to ship this summer, the plug and switches will boast on/off functionality, dimming, motion sensing, and countdown timers. The switches will be wall-mountable and will offer a polished, hardwired appearance, Jasco says. Thanks to Matter, the new devices will work with Alexa, Apple Home, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings, as well as with the Enbrighten app. Users will also be able to control the plugs and switches with battery-powered Matter remotes that will work without Wi-Fi. Jasco Jasco will ship a total of five different Matter smart plugs, ranging in price from $32.99 to $39.99. One of the plugs will be an outdoor model with a countdown timer, while the others will be indoor units; one of the plugs will have a motion sensor. The companys five smart switches start at $24.99, including models with three-way dimmers and different combinations of countdown timers and presets, while the priciest switch ($39.99) will have a motion sensor. Enbrighten Indoor Accent Wall Lights Alongside its new Matter plugs and switches, Jasco is also serving up new indoor accent lights at CES. The Enbrighten Indoor Accent Wall Lights come with 12 RGBWWIC LED pucks on a 12-foot strand (RGBWWIC means each pucks has discrete integrated circuits for red, green, blue, white, and warm white). You can mount the lights using the included mounting clips and adhesive tape, and up to four of the strings can be connected to a single power source. Said power source can connect to either end of the string. The Indoor Accent Wall Lights can glow in millions of colors, and they offer dynamic lighting effects as well as the ability to sync with tunes courtesy of Jascos MusicSync technology. Jasco You can control the wall lights ($79.99, or $34.99 for a 12-puck expansion pack) using the Enbrighten app or an included RF remote. The lights work with Alexa and Google Home, but not with Matter. Same as Jascos new smart plugs and switches, the Enbrighten Indoor Accent Wall Lights are set to come out this summer. Eternity Landscape Lights Finally, Jacso is unveiling a follow-up to its Eternity permanent outdoor lights, with the Eternity Landscape Lights slated to go on sale later this month. The compact, Wi-Fi-connected lights can be used as either outdoor spotlights or footlights, with an 8-light set selling for $99.99 while a 12-light package will retail for $129.99. Jasco Weve previously reviewed some of Jascos smart wares, including the companys Enbrighten Eternity Lights, which snagged our Editors Choice award last summer. Microsoft would really, really, really like you to use Bing, its self-branded search engine that competes against Googles monopoly. Not only is it hardwired into much of Windows and other Microsoft products like the Edge browser, it also employs a lot of sneaky visual tricks to steer you away from Google itself. But the companys latest trick is more, well, tricky in fact, its just straight-up Google camouflage. This morning, users are discovering that if they search for Google in the primary Bing interface, theyre shown a special Bing search page. Before you scroll down to the actual search results, youre presented with an all-white page with a centered, unbranded search bar and a multicolored doodle above it thats heavy on yellow, red, blue, and green. It is, in a very practical and (in this writers opinion) deliberate sense, a clone of the familiar Google search page. If you arent paying attention, you might put in a search or two in this disguised bar without ever realizing that you havent actually left Bing itself. Youll have to scroll up or down to notice somethings off, if you havent immediately seen that its basically a knock-off Google doodle. The change was noted by Windows Latest (via 9to5Google), which also points out that this page appears whether youre going to Bing.com directly or searching from the Edge combined search/URL bar. The only place it doesnt appear is if youre searching from an Edge tab in which youve already signed into a Microsoft account. A little testing on my part verifies these parameters. (Im seeing the I cant believe its not Google search page in Vivaldi, even though Im signed into my work Outlook account.) This dedicated I cant believe its not Google search page does not seem to appear for any searches less specific than google, google search, etc. Even something only slightly less immediate, like google mail, gives you the regular Bing interface and results. The intent seems pretty obvious here, and its a very desperate look on the part of Microsoft. Not that I blame anyone for feeling a little desperate in the face of Googles search dominance. I didnt call it the Google monopoly idly, because thats the official determination of a United States federal court. Google controlled an astonishing 95 percent of the mobile search marketplace as of 2024 according to Statista, a number that has barely moved since 2015, with Bing claiming less than one percent despite 15 years of Microsoft backing. The results are slightly less bleak if you look at the desktop search market, where Google has only 82 percent to Bings growing 10.51 percent share as of early 2024. So, yeah, I dont envy the Bing teams task of slaying giants. But that being said, if a user wants Google and they search Bing to get it, deliberately obfuscating the search seems like a failure of a search engines sole task. Microsoft is putting its business goals above its users, a strategy that never endears users to the product. Considering how poorly Microsofts push to move people off of Windows 10 is going, I wonder if they might benefit from a bit of serious introspection on this approach. A market in York County will go back to being a warehouse. The Markets at Hanover at 1649 Broadway in Penn Township made the announcement last month. As many of you have noticed, The Markets at Hanover looks different than it once did, Officials at The Markets at Hanover said in a message on Facebook. Many of the businesses and restaurants that we (and you) love so much have moved out to open their own Brick & Mortar locations. We have loved celebrating each of these success stories over the course of the past 10 years. However, since 2020, we have noticed a different trend in visitors to the Markets and recognize that our current model is no longer working. Officials announced that the building would transition back to its original intention of being a warehouse and that they would help the vendors find new homes. The Penn Township Zoning Hearing Board voted last month in favor of the proposal to return the 38,000-square-foot facility to its original use as a warehouse with two conditions: no outdoor storage, and no tractor-trailer loading or unloading between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m. at the site, the Evening Sun reported. The site already consists of 60,960 square feet of warehouse space in the rear of the building and another roughly 8,000 square feet of the site would be used as office space, the report said. Thank you all for your continued support. We have loved seeing so many great memories made here, Officials at The Market at Hanover said. by Xinhua writer Yang Qi SHIJIAZHUANG, Jan. 5 (Xinhua) -- Visitors to the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall can hardly ignore the stunning pictures of the UNESCO heritage site that are exhibited along the trail toward the exit. Many of the photos are credited to Duan Jiujun. Through Duan's lens, visitors can enjoy magnificent views of the Great Wall against various backdrops, including spring blossoms, drifting clouds, winter snow, starry skies and even double rainbows. His work gives the impression of a professional photographer who has made frequent visits to the area. But in fact, Duan, 56, is a local of Hualougou Village at the foot of the Jinshanling Great Wall who put aside his plow and picked up a camera over 20 years ago. Located about 150 kilometers north of Beijing, in Luanping County, Hebei Province, Jinshanling is one of the most well-preserved sections of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) structure and an ideal spot for photography lovers due to its perfect integration with the landscape. In the late 1980s, when tourism began to grow in the local area, Duan saw an opportunity to make some additional income for his family by opening a rural guesthouse. In 2003, a photographer named Wang Jianwu stayed in Duan's guesthouse for more than a year. Duan was so captivated by Wang's work that he hung the pictures on the walls of the building. "With these photos and the stories behind them, it wasn't just an ordinary farmhouse anymore -- it became a place with cultural elements," Duan said. Before leaving, Wang told Duan, "Keep shooting. The photos on the walls will be your own in a few years." Encouraged by these words, Duan started with a borrowed camera and soon began to delve into the art of photography. With a camera in hand, Duan's fascination grew into a passion. Despite doubts from some villagers, he invested in better equipment and spent countless hours learning photography techniques. With his photography improving, Duan began to garner attention. His photos of the Great Wall, often showcasing its awe-inspiring beauty, started to win awards and drew more tourists to the area, helping Duan's family business to thrive. But photography offered Duan more than just economic gains. Soon other photography enthusiasts sought him out for guidance, impressed by his deep knowledge of the area. "One day, when a photographer called out 'Teacher Duan' I didn't think he was referring to me, and I looked around at the others," said Duan, who is now a member of the China Photographers Association and China Great Wall Society. "It gives me a feeling of joy and accomplishment, too," he said with a gentle smile. Duan's success has inspired others in Hualougou Village. Among them is Zhou Baoquan, who used to be a truck driver and had other jobs away from his hometown. Following in Duan's footsteps, he returned home to run a farmhouse and later also became a Great Wall photographer. Since he bought his first camera in 2011, Zhou would come to the Great Wall whenever he found time. "The Great Wall was the playground for us during childhood," Zhou said. "More than 10 years after I returned home, it still gives me comfort and strength." "You can read history from it," Zhou said. "After all these years, you still find many details, including inscriptions and decorations on the walls. So the ancient soldiers didn't just build it for defense; they also had their ways of expressing their feelings and desire for better lives." What started as a small group has grown into a community of farmer-photographers who have turned the village into a veritable "photography village," with its photographer association boasting over 50 members. Once mostly reliant on farming, the villagers have now turned their homes into guesthouses, providing accommodation for the many photographers and tourists visiting from around China and the world. In 2014, the village formed a rural tourism cooperative, which has broken down barriers between individual business owners and allowed them to promote Hualougou as a collective. Hualougou is now home to more than 100 guesthouses, which together host over 100,000 visitors annually. Some of the popular ones can generate over 1 million yuan (about 139,000 U.S. dollars) in annual revenue. This influx of tourism has created jobs for more than 700 local residents, helping to lift the rural community out of poverty and into a new phase of pursuing revitalization. Such an undertaking is also ongoing in many other rural areas since China declared the eradication of extreme poverty in 2021. The village has proposed that its revitalization should be on the premise of preserving the Great Wall's culture, said Zhou Baoquan. For these farmers, photography has become an act of preservation. They view their images not only as a source of income but also as a way to protect the Great Wall's legacy. "When tourists visit, they ask many questions about the Great Wall, so I learn about the Great Wall from books and pass that knowledge on to others," said Duan. "I don't see us just as photographers. We are guardians and ambassadors of the Great Wall's culture," he said. A years-long restoration project has been underway at a prominent hotel in Cumberland County that has hosted many weddings, proms, conventions, political events and other functions over the years. More than three years after the Radisson Penn Harris Hotel now the Penn Harris Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham. was purchased at auction, officials at the hotel at 1150 Camp Hill Bypass in East Pennsboro Township are celebrating the improvements at the property. A grand reopening of the property was held in October and PennLive was given a tour of the facility recently. Renovations so far have included: New parking lot New signage Landscape upgrades New Roofing on the convention center and hotel All new heating/cooling units in all public spaces, event spaces and 250 guest rooms Upgraded bathrooms New locks New corridor carpet and lighting Hotel lobby (new carpet, lighting, furniture, fireplace, mural, etc.) New 55 TVs in all 250 guest rooms with upgraded HD service New phones and system Upgraded Wi-Fi property-wide 125 rooms received new carpet and new case goods (all guest rooms now have refrigerators) A new restaurant, Mercato Mio, serving Italian cuisine, opened last year. The 250-room hotel is located near Lemoyne, and near Harrisburg Academy and Perkins Restaurant & Bakery. The hotel has a 24/7 gym, a seasonal pool and 30,000 square feet of convention, event, and wedding space. The hotel was purchased in May 2021 by an investment group that includes Lower Paxton Township-based Triple Crown Corporation. The operator of the hotel is Hospitality Asset Management Company, based out of the State College area. The hotel was built in 1964. The convention center was renovated and completed by the previous owner just weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic made its way to Pennsylvania in March 2020. An official with the Hospitality Asset Management Company told PennLive in 2021 that the rest of the property had deteriorated over the years and that the hotel would see dramatic changes and an extensive renovation. In 2020, the court appointed a receiver to manage the hotel and to put the property up for sale. The previous owner of the hotel, Penn Lodge Partners was more than $11 million in debt after it defaulted on loans from M&T Bank, the hotels receiver said in a court filing in 2020. A 32-year-old man charged with killing another man in an ambush outside a Chambersburg shopping center last month was out on probation for fatally stabbing a neighbor in 2009, according to court records. Joshua Bresnick accused of driving a minivan to the shopping center Dec. 18 and firing from the drivers seat got out on early release on Feb. 17, 2015, in connection to fatally stabbing a neighbor in Maryland when he was 16. He was sentenced to 20 years, but the judge suspended 11 years of the sentence. Police said Bresnick had waited outside the shopping center last month before Rakeem Floyd, 20, arrived. Surveillance cameras recorded the minivan parked at the Southgate Mall from about 55:48 p.m., then it drove away, returning a few minutes before a passenger in Bresnicks van got out, accosted Floyd from behind and started fighting Floyd. Then Bresnick pulled up and started shooting Floyd, according to court documents. The passenger then got back into the minivan and Bresnick drove away, according to the documents. The passenger was not identified in court records. Chambersburg police responded to a shots fired call around 6:40 p.m. on Dec. 18 and found Floyd, of Chambersburg, dead in front of the Family Dollar store in the Southgate Mall. Police charged Bresnick on Dec. 30 with homicide. He was arrested Friday and is being held without bail at the Franklin County Jail, online court records show. Police said his prior conviction for second-degree murder legally barred him from carrying a gun. The court records filed against Bresnick outlined how police linked Bresnick to the killing. A witness told police that Floyd was involved in a fight with another man outside Family Dollar before he was killed, according to an affidavit of probable cause. While the two men were fighting, a white man wearing glasses later identified as Bresnick drove up in a minivan and pulled out a gun, the affidavit said. Court documents said Bresnick shot Floyd several times before driving away. After the shooting, police said they got several tips that helped them trace Bresnick to an address in McConnellsburg, Fulton County. While searching the address, police said they found a silver Toyota Sienna minivan with a spare drivers side back tire and cosmetic damage. Police found a piece of mail with Bresnicks name on it inside the van, according to the affidavit. The husband of the minivans registered owner told police hed let Bresnick borrow the vehicle since early December. Bresnick had been working for the man but didnt show up for work after the fatal shooting on Dec. 18, the affidavit said. At some point when the man asked Bresnick what happened to the minivan, he replied, What van?, according to the affidavit. Another witness confirmed he spoke with Bresnick and the other man while Bresnick was parked in the mall lot before the shooting, court documents said. The court documents did not provide the reason for the fight or a motive for the killing. Floyds funeral was held Friday. His obituary said he loved rapping and making music and was interested in starting a clothing line. He is survived by a son, parents, four siblings and numerous other family members. In addition to homicide, Bresnick was charged with simple assault, recklessly endangering another person and two firearms offenses. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Jan. 14 in front of Magisterial District Judge Glenn Manns. Bresnick was 16 in January 2009 when he repeatedly stabbed 45-year-old David Falkinburg, a man who lived a few doors down from Bresnick in Baltimore, according to The Baltimore Sun. Falkinburgs friends found him dead in a first-floor bedroom of his home while checking on his welfare after not seeing him for days, news reports said. The Baltimore Sun reported that Bresnick showed up at Falkinburgs home while police were at the scene investigating his death. News reports said detectives noticed a stab wound on one of Bresnicks arms. He was taken to police headquarters and charged with first-degree murder. Online court records show Bresnick pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in August 2009. The Pennsylvania Dairymens Association is giving away free milkshakes on Jan. 9 to active military and veterans with proper identification. The giveaway is sponsored by Renewal by Andersen of Central PA and is happening on Military Appreciation Day at the Pennsylvania Farm Show. The Dairymens booths are open 8 a.m.-9 p.m. in the food court and Main Hall. We are eager to greet our military friends, veterans and all our milkshake and Farm Show fans, said Dave Smith, the associations executive director. This year, the association is featuring a limited-edition mint flavor. It joins traditional vanilla, chocolate and mixed. Milkshake prices are up by $1 over last year and selling for $7 a piece. The Farm Show runs through Jan. 11 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex & Expo Center in Harrisburg. Scientists have recently put out a warning regarding potential health risks associated with tea bags. These bags might expose people to billions of nano- and microplastics with every sip, which may lead to adverse health effects. According to Newsweek, microbiologists at the Independent University of Barcelona (Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, UAB) in Spain published a study observing the plastic that was released by different commercially available tea bags and how they affected human cells. Plastics are extensively used in modern society due to their many key properties and advantages including versatility, durability, cost-effectiveness, lightweight nature, hygiene, and safety, among others, the study reads. Concretely, plastic has revolutionized the food packaging sector by extending the shelf life of fresh food, enabling essential health applications, and contributing to lighter and safer shipping. However, despite these advantages, the widespread use of plastic has raised concerns about environmental pollution, resource depletion, and health risks associated with certain plastic additives and their degradation into micro- and nanoplastics. One of the studys authors, Ricardo Marcos Dauder, informed the publication that these plastics which can be measured between 1 and 1,000 micrometers, meaning theyre incredibly small did indeed have an impact on the cells that were analyzed. Medical Express explains that these nano- and microplastics were absorbed by the intestinal cells that produce mucus, with some analysis indicating that the material had even entered the nucleus of these cells where genetic material is located. All the data shows that the smaller the size, the higher the uptake [of plastic] into the cells, Dauder said. The smaller the size, the higher the risk. As for what the long-term health implications might be, the UAB researchers concluded that more studies need to be done. However, the National Institutes of Healths (NIH) National Library of Medicine does say that the longterm health effects of micro- and nanoplastic exposure may include changes to ones metabolism as well as cancer. Well, I finally broke down and did it. I created an account on Donald Trumps social media platform, Truth Social. The reason why I went against my better judgment and joined was because U.S. Sen. John Fetterman joined recently and his first post was reported by PennLive.com. Apparently, my Democratic senator equated Donald Trumps criminal conviction for falsifying business records as part of a cover up scheme with Hunter Bidens own legal troubles. He then suggested pardons were appropriate. First, President Joe Biden cannot pardon Trump for the hush money case. That was a state prosecution and not federal. Second, pardoning Hunter Biden had nothing to do with the crimes he was convicted of, but rather, to shield him from future prosecutions from Trumps Justice Department. Fetterman calls both prosecutions an expletive. Is he saying that if it was anyone other than Hunter Biden and Trump, they wouldnt have been prosecuted? I dont believe it. Dont get me wrong. Fetterman has the right to express his opinion like everyone else. However, why did he post his opinion about these prosecutions solely on Truth Social and not on other social media? Likely because he just wanted confirmation and not criticism and MAGA nation didnt disappoint. Every comment I read contained a meme of some kind declaring war on the Democrats. One reply even asked if Fetterman was now MAGA. So now I am on Truth Social. Im going to read posts there that I wont read anywhere else. I am now following Fetterman, Tulsi Gabbard, Kash Patel, Robert Kennedy Jr., and most of the MAGA political crowd. Im hoping to gain insight into their thinking that I might not be able to glean anywhere else. I might even push back on their posts ... Nah, my blood pressure cant handle it. Lawrence Goldman, York, Pa. Several inches could pile up Monday in central Pennsylvania, but residents can take a deep breath forecasters are no longer calling for up to half a foot of snow. In its winter weather advisory, the National Weather Service said Dauphin, Cumberland, Lebanon, Perry, Mifflin and Juniata counties could see 1-3 inches. The NWS is calling for 2-4 inches in York and Lancaster counties. Most of the snow is expected before 4 p.m., but dont be surprised if you see scattered snow showers until about 9 p.m., forecasters said. Central Pennsylvania isnt the only part of the state getting less snow than anticipated. The Pittsburgh area, once facing up to 5 inches of snow, is now only expected to get 1-3 inches. The NWS is calling for 2-4 inches in the Philadelphia area. Forecasters said central Pennsylvanians should plan on slippery road conditions affecting morning and evening commutes. PennDOT has lowered the speed limit to 45 mph on central Pennsylvania highways. Temperatures will peak in the upper 20s and drop into the teens at night. The area could see nearly 30 mph wind gusts Monday night, according to the NWS. More snow isnt expected Tuesday, but forecasters said whats already on the ground could be blown around amid up to 36 mph winds. Tuesday will otherwise be sunny but cold, with highs near 31. It will be a chilly but clear rest of the week, forecasters said, with temperatures hovering right at or below freezing through Sunday. Central Pa. residents should be on the lookout for scheduling changes or closures to their local government offices as well as some possible freebies ahead of the coming snow. York County officials announced Sunday night that county offices would be closed Monday in anticipation of the storm, which is expected to start in the pre-dawn hours in central Pennsylvania. Harrisburg city government, while not closing, is offering liberal leave to all employees, Mayor Wanda Williams announced Sunday. The city is also offering free parking at the Locust Street municipal garage through Tuesday morning so that residents can get their cars off the street during the storm. Public Works must pretreat roads in the early hours of 3-4 a.m. as well as collect refuse," Harrisburg Public Works Director Dave West said in the announcement. It is not so much the snow accumulation that I am concerned with as it is the below-freezing temperatures for the next several days. Forecasters are currently anticipating 2 to 4 inches of snow accumulation in the Harrisburg metro area, starting early Monday morning. The storm system is currently moving eastward from the Midwest, with the bulk of the storm falling further south; Franklin and Adams counties are expected to get up to 7 inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 6. Azerbaijans Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur regions produced 550 million kilowatt-hours of green energy in 2024, the countrys State Energy Company Azerenergy OJSC told Trend. Azerenergy revealed that over the 12 months of 2024, it produced up to 550 million kilowatt-hours of environmentally friendly energy from thirty-two hydroelectric power stations (HPPs) in the Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur regions. Of this total, one-third, or approximately 200 million kilowatt-hours, was used to meet the energy needs of the liberated territories. The remaining two-thirds were supplied to the national power grid, supporting other areas of the country. As a result, the production saved 120 million cubic meters of natural gas and prevented the emission of 225,000 tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Notably, in 2024 alone, 7 hydroelectric plants were inaugurated in Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur with the participation of the countrys leadership. Among them was the largest hydroelectric station built in the past 4 years, "Yukhari Vang," with a capacity of 22.5 megawatts, as well as the "Zar," "Zabukh," and "Gyrygishlag" stations, with capacities of 4.3, 2.8, and 4.6 megawatts, respectively. In the Zangilan district, 3 stations, "Shayifly," "Zangilan," and "Sarigishlag," were also completed, each with a capacity of 10.5 megawatts. This progress is part of the ongoing work to fulfill the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev's directive to turn Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur into a "green energy" zone. Over the past 4 years, 32 hydroelectric stations with a total capacity of 270 megawatts have been launched, and 11 more hydroelectric plants are planned for commissioning in 2025. In total, additional hydropower stations with a capacity of 200 megawatts are set to be built in the coming years. Moncks Corner, SC (29461) Today Sunny, along with a few afternoon clouds. High 77F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Mostly clear skies. Low 54F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph. Jocelyn Grzeszczak is a reporter on The Post and Courier's Watchdog and Public Service team. She previously wrote breaking news and features for Newsweek and The News-Press. MYRTLE BEACH Zachery Ty Bryan, a former child star on the popular '90s sitcom "Home Improvement," allegedly choked and punched his partner multiple times while at their Myrtle Beach home, according to a police report released Jan. 6. Bryan, 43, was charged with second-degree domestic violence and booked at the J. Reuben Long Detention Center by 2:02 p.m. Jan. 2, online jail records show. His bond was set at $10,000. He was released the night of Jan. 3. The incident happened just before 7 p.m. on New Year's Day at a home along Monarch Drive in Myrtle Beach, according to public records. Bryan and the woman live together and have children, according to the report. Myrtle Beach Police responded to a report of a disturbance at the residence. The victim told police Bryan choked her and punched her in the face multiple times, according to the report. She had bruises and swelling on the right side of her face. Bryan told police the couple got into an argument about her drinking, according to the report. He said he tried to take a bottle from her, but she refused to let him and they "flailed back and forth." "Due to the totality of the circumstances through the investigation, it was determined that the offender (Bryan) was the primary aggressor," the police report stated. Bryan was ordered to vacate order on the same day as the incident, according to public records. The Myrtle Beach Magistrate Court has not released the records about the eviction notice. Bryan played the character Brad Taylor on the television show "Home Improvement," which ran from 1991 to 1999. He has also appeared in films such as "The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift," "Thor: Hammer of the Gods" and "Knight Rider," according to his IMDb page. When did the Civil War begin? Most say April 1861, but many historians say it started earlier. PR-Inside.com: 2025-01-06 14:12:17 Press Information Published by ACN Newswire +65 6304 8926 e-mail https://www.acnnewswire.com/ # 1091 Words ACN Newswire+65 6304 8926 - Themed New Play for All, the trio of fairs brings together more than 2,500 exhibitors from 34 countries and regions- The number of exhibitors at Hong Kong Baby Products Fair achieves a record high; over 380 well-known toy and baby products brands in the Brand Name Gallery- The three fairs reveal several product trends, including digitisation, green toys, and the popularity of cross-age group products- Asian Toys & Games Forum will be held tomorrow, gathering international experts to discuss the social responsibilities of the toy industryHONG KONG, Jan 6, 2025 - (ACN Newswire) Kicking off a brand new year, the 51st HKTDC Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, the 16th HKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair and the 23rd Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair, jointly organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, launched today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre and will take place over four consecutive days.Hong Kong SAR Government Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Algernon Yau, Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) Acting Executive Director Sophia Chong, and HKTDC Toys Advisory Committee Chairman Bryant Chan officiated the Joint Opening Ceremony of the Toys & Games Fair and Baby Products Fair today, launching the 51st edition of Asia's flagship Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair.Algernon Yau, HKSAR Government Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, said at the opening ceremony: "Entering the 51st year of the Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, I have full confidence that the event, together with the concurrent Hong Kong Baby Products Fair, will continue to feature different innovative and distinctive products that are intriguing to all and, more importantly, facilitate business promotion and consolidate Hong Kong's position as a global sourcing as well as convention and exhibition hub. Sophia Chong, HKTDC Acting Executive Director, said: "This year's Toy Fair marks an important milestone and a new chapter for the toy industry. The three fairs are themed New Play for All, and feature multiple zones, from toys for infants and toddlers to collectible toys designed for adults with a childlike spirit, as well as STEM education toys, smart-tech toys & games and green toys, catering to the needs of all age groups and meeting market demand.The three fairs have drawn over 2,500 exhibitors from 34 countries and regions, including pavilions from Hong Kong, Mainland China, Asia and Europe, presenting cross-industry business opportunities to visitors. The HKTDC has proactively arranged more than 200 buying missions from over 40 countries and regions, and invited various Hong Kong-based international buyers and local enterprises including several large international e-commerce platforms, importers, department stores, specialty stores, retail chains, and procurement offices, creating new opportunities for the industry, added Chong.Three fairs reveal multiple product trendsSeveral product trends from this year's exhibitors provide visitors from other industries with cross-industry business opportunities. These include:- Digitised products: Many traditional toy and game manufacturers and brands are integrating electronics and new technologies with toys to enhance playability, such as the Dynamie Pixel Piano (Booth: 1E-C02), Upset Dog (Booth: 1C-F02), and the NASA Spirit Rover (Booth: 1C-F33).- Learning and play combined: In the hope that kids can learn while having fun, many parents choose toys that can improve cognitive, social, intellectual, and aesthetic development. As a result, there is a greater demand for educational and intellectual products, such as the Giant Panda Anatomy Model (Booth: 1D-C12), Adventure Globe (Booth: 1E-A02), Children's Play Sofa (Booth: 3F-G04), and Water Transfer Painting Set (Booth: 5B-B01).- Demand for sustainable products: As sustainable consumption has grown, more parents are inclined to choose eco-friendly toys to reduce their environmental impact. Examples include straw DIY marble run blocks (Booth: 1C-D02) and the Voices of Nature series of puzzles (Booth: 1D-A08).- Cross-age groups products: There is a growing popularity of toy designs and styles that cater to a wide range of age groups. Toys are no longer just for children; adults and even elderly are collecting toys, making the collectibles market a significant part of the toy industry. The Astro Boy Mechanical Clear Version (Booth: 1D-A26) is one example. The fair is actively developing the ageing market as well. For instance, a Hong Kong exhibitor has designed a wall game suitable for both the elderly and children, where the user must rotate cogs with both hands, and the vibrant visual stimulus helps to enhance concentration and left-right brain coordination (Booth: 1D-D22).Exhibition space growth in multiple zones at the Toys & Games FairToys & Games Fair saw an expansion in exhibition space in two major zones. This includes the Electronic & Remote Control Toys (up 40%) and Educational Toys & Games zones (up 7%). The Green Toys zone makes a welcome return and showcase eco-friendly and innovative products with a Green Leaf Label displayed at the booths of green exhibitors for buyers easy reference. This year, over 370 exhibitors have the Green Leaf label, an increase of 70% from the last edition.Funded by the Trade and Industrial Organisation Support Fund of the Trade and Industry Department, HKSAR Government, the Toys Manufacturers Association of Hong Kong and FHKI Group 19 (Hong Kong Toys Council) present the first ESG Pavilion to showcase toys incorporating Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) elements, including products made entirely from eco-friendly or recycled materials. Exhibitors are using various creative methods to promote sustainable development, emphasising the value of social responsibility and ESG fundamentals.This years Toys Fair has an impressive pavilion lineup, including exhibitors from Mainland China, Taiwan and Korea, as well as selected European exhibitors at the Spielwarenmesse eGs World of Toys Pavilion. Exhibits include Glow-in-the-Dark Slime (Booth: 1CON-068), Genius Square board game (Booth: 1CON-061), and more. The Hong Kong Brand Toy Association (HKBTA) Pavilion once again promotes the local creative industry and trendy toy products to international buyers.Record number of exhibitors at Baby Products FairWith more than 660 exhibitors, this year's Hong Kong Baby Products Fair boasts the most exhibitors ever. The popular ODM Strollers and Gear zone is back for the second consecutive year, featuring over 80 exhibitors, making it easier than ever for buyers to source products from original design manufacturers. The Selection of Europe Pavilion returns and feature, for the first time, the UKs Baby Products Industry Association putting a spotlight on quality European baby brands and products, such as cribs and hearing protection earmuffs. This year sees the return of several popular pavilions, including well-known Korean and Hong Kong Children, Babies, Maternity Industries Association pavilions. Making their debut this year is the Zhejiang Zhili pavilion presents an array of high-quality infant and childrens clothing.Read more: https://www.acnnewswire.com/press-release/english/95021/ The Nigerian Women for Agricultural Progressive and Development Initiative (NWAPDI) has sounded an urgent call for greater attention to female farmers plight, emphasising their critical role in the countrys food security. At an event in Lagos over the weekend, the organisations National Coordinator, Omolara Svensson, decried the lack of robust data and structural support in the agricultural sector, citing these as significant barriers to progress. Women constitute approximately 90 per cent of the workforce in Nigerias agricultural sector, yet they remain under-recognised and unsupported, Ms Svensson said. Without their tireless contributions, food insecurity in the country would have reached unprecedented levels this year. A key concern raised by NWAPDI, which is committed to ensuring that Nigerian women are leaders in the agricultural transformation, was the absence of accurate and reliable data to guide agricultural policies and investments. Ms Svensson stressed that this gap has hindered effective planning and resource allocation. She said, Many female farmers in Nigeria have inadequate infrastructure and support structures, and many of them operate without access to essential tools, modern farming techniques, or viable markets for their produce. NWAPDI revealed its plan to expand Nigerias agricultural export capacity to $20 million by 2025. Ms Svensson described the initiative as a multifaceted approach to address systemic challenges in agriculture, including poor access to financing, inadequate training, and the devastating effects of climate change. Empowering women through technology To address these challenges, NWAPDI has launched several initiatives to empower women and youth in agriculture. One programme involves training over 1,000 women and young people in climate-smart farming practices. These techniques, Ms Svensson explained, are designed to combat the adverse effects of climate change while boosting productivity and sustainability. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The organisation also unveiled plans to introduce a Real-Time Farming App, a cutting-edge tool designed to provide farmers with traceability, crop monitoring, real-time weather updates, and market information. According to her, the app will revolutionise the agricultural landscape by enhancing decision-making and boosting efficiency. Financial inclusion NWAPDIs strategy includes fostering partnerships with agricultural organisations, government agencies, and international climate action groups to promote the widespread adoption of sustainable practices. The group also collaborates with the Bank of Agriculture and local governments to provide farmers with micro-financing and market access. We are working to ensure that every farmer, especially women, has access to the resources they need to succeed, Svensson noted. This includes financial support and mentorship from experienced farmers who have successfully implemented climate-smart techniques. At the event, Oluwatoyin Oloyede, Chief Executive Officer of Mutosefiti Farms, underscored womens critical role in Nigerias agricultural sector. Womens participation is essential for food security in Nigeria, Oloyede said. We must empower them to take on leadership roles and provide them with the support needed to thrive. Oloyede highlighted the programmes potential to address unemployment, particularly among youths, by equipping them with practical, marketable skills. This initiative will help reduce rural-urban migration and create new economic opportunities for our youth, she added. Tackling climate change NWAPDI emphasised the urgent need to address climate changes impact on agriculture, which has led to reduced yields and increased food insecurity. The group said it promotes sustainable practices such as water-efficient irrigation systems, organic farming, soil conservation, and cultivating drought-resistant crops. Climate change is not just an environmental issue; it is a food security crisis, Svensson said. We must act now to protect the livelihoods of our farmers and ensure a sustainable future for the next generation. NWAPDI envisions Nigeria where agriculture drives economic growth and eliminates poverty. Ms Svensson vividly describes this future: Our ultimate goal is to ensure that no Nigerian child is hawking on the streets and that every youth has access to employment opportunities through agriculture. The organisation said its Annual General Meeting, scheduled for February 2025 at the Nicon Luxury Hotel in Abuja, will serve as a platform to solidify these goals and unveil further initiatives. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Transcorp Hotel, the hospitality subsidiary of Transnational Corporation Plc, has appointed Uzo Oshogwe as its new managing director/chief executive officer. Mrs Oshogwe, who took over the reins on 2 January, is replacing Dupe Olusola. In a post on Facebook on Monday, Tony Elumelu, the chairman of Transnational Corporation, welcomed Mrs Oshogwe to her new role, while commending Ms Olusola for her impactful tenure. I want to also thank Dupe for her leadership and contribution, which have laid a solid foundation for our ongoing success, said Mr Elumelu, who also chairs the board of directors at United Bank for Africa. Transcorp Hilton Abuja is where Nigeria welcomes the world, and with our new 5,000-seat event centre, I know with Uzo we will be taking our hospitality offering to new heights, he added. Until her appointment, Mrs Ushogwe was the managing director at Lagos-based Afriland Properties Limited. She previously held prominent roles in organisations such as Accenture and the UBA Group. In all, she has over three decades of professional experience. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The new Transcorp Hotel chief holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State. She is also a holder of a Master of Science degree in Information Systems Design from the University of Westminster, London. Mrs Ushogwe holds a professional certificate in Real Estate Management from Harvard Business School, Massachusetts, USA. She is a Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors-accredited civil and commercial mediator and a fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants. She is also an alumna of the Lagos Business School and IESE Business School, Spain, having attended the Advanced Management Programme (AMP) and the Chief Executive Programme of the institutions respectively. Uzo Oshogwes exceptional leadership skills and extensive experience in driving organizational growth make her the right person to continue building on Dupe Olusolas remarkable achievements at Transcorp Hotels Plc, Emmanuel N. Nnorom, the chairman of Transcorp Hotel, said in a statement. Her expertise aligns perfectly with our vision to create value and deliver excellence in the hospitality industry, he added. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Yeni and Femi Kuti, children of the late Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti, have published their late mother, Remilekun Anikulapo-Kutis memoir titled Mrs Kuti. The older sibling, Yeni, shared the news on her Instagram page on Monday when she posted a video of Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka holding a copy of the book. She also announced that the book could be preordered. Her post read, Femi and I have finally published our mums book, thanks to @ouidabooks. It has taken us all these years. She passed on 23 years ago at the young age of 60. I am 63 now, almost 64, so I know how young that was. I hope you enjoy her account of her life with Fela. Femi had announced that their mum wrote the book years ago but never published it. The memoir explores Mrs Kutis turbulent years with Fela, documenting personal and shared struggles as they journeyed through fame. The memoir is an account of my life from the day I was born before I met Fela, and after he entered it like a comet in 1959. I think of him and will, as long as I livemy love is the forever kind, an excerpt from the description partly read. The books description reads, Without regret or rancour, Remilekun Anikulapo-Kuti invites us into her extraordinary life as a love interest, the wife and the estranged partner of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, the Afrobeat legend. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Her writing takes us from years in a home for orphaned children in the English Midlands to London, where she met the dashing Fela at a party, to moving to Nigeria, where Remilekun navigates culture shock, the complexities of love and loss, and the joys of motherhood. Remilekun is unabatingly honest about her thoughts on marriage, justice, music, and Nigerian society from the 1960s to the 1990s. Our beautiful new book MRS KUTI is out on 13 January 2025. Its impossible to read Remilekun Anikulapo-Kutis memoir & not feel strong emotionsjoy, fear, pity, hope, anger, frustration etc. Told with poetic candour & a keen eye, big moments in music history play out in VHS. https://t.co/oAOP7ITLCI pic.twitter.com/E1KvW4zadC Lola Shoneyin (@lolashoneyin) December 22, 2024 Mrs Kuti, Felas first wife, was born on 12 July 1941 in London. She received her early education in Lagos, Nigeria. After moving to London, she attended Princess Alice School and Home in Sutton Coldfield, England. On 7 January 1961, Remi married the emerging musician Olufela Ransome-Kuti, who would become the celebrated Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. They had three children: Yeni, Femi and Sola (1963 1997). Remilekun Anikulapo-Kuti passed away on 12 January 2002 in Lagos, Nigeria. Mrs Kuti is her first and only book. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Popular Nigerian socialite Adebisi Edionseri, fondly called Cash Madam, has died at 89. One of her sons, Adebayo Adebowale, in a statement on behalf of the family, revealed that she died on Sunday following a brief illness. A prominent figure in the Nigerian social scene for decades, Cash Madam was known for her love of fashion, style, beauty, entrepreneurial exploits and flamboyant lifestyle. Notably, Nigerias oldest female socialite, Juju legend Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey nicknamed her Cash Madam in the 1980s. She had been a millionaire since the late 1970s and was known for her generosity to musicians. The late Sikiru Ayinde Barrister even dedicated a 47-minute, 36-second track, Cash Madam, to her in his 2004 album, Reality. Eulogising his mum, her son added, Cash Madam gained prominence for her entrepreneurial acumen as she would wheel the significant sales proceeds making up coins and notes to the branch of Barclays Bank (now Union Bank) and was specially allocated a room and a group of cashiers to count. Funeral rites The funeral ceremony, conducted according to Islamic rites, will be held on Monday at 4 p.m. at her residence in the Government Reservation Area (GRA), Ibara, Abeokuta. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Her life was a shining example of grace, dignity, and unwavering faith. Princess Edionseri touched the lives of many through her wisdom, kindness, and dedication to her family and community. She taught us the importance of love, resilience, and faith in Allah, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations, her son added. As we grieve this monumental loss, we also celebrate the remarkable life she lived. The family added that her laughter, warmth, and the values she instilled will forever remain in our hearts, guiding us as we navigate life without her physical presence. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print On Sunday night, amid his escalating feud with Burna Boy, nightlife entrepreneur Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, vowed to secure the release of embattled rapper Speed Darlington. He wrote, Tomorrow we are coming for you, Akpi Nwamama. Monday is almost here. Lets now showcase power. Cubana Chief Priests bold declaration was a response to Burna Boys perceived displays of generosity, including gifting $30,000 to his (Cubanas) alleged brother, Bethel Okechukwu, and offering financial and material support to Hellen, his alleged Kenyan baby mama. Speed Darlington, however, has remained in detention for one month and ten days for alleged cyberstalking and defamation of Burna Boy despite a court order granting him bail on Christmas Eve. His lawyers have lamented his continued detention. On Monday, an accelerated hearing was held at the Federal High Court in Abuja. Speed Darlingtons lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, told PREMIUM TIMES that the judgment had been delivered in his clients favour. Mr Adeyanju said, The Federal High Court has directed the Nigerian Police to comply with the order to release Speed Darlington immediately pending the hearing of the substantive matter. The court further directs Abubakar Marshal, Esq. to stand as surety to Akpi (Speed Darlington). Alternatively, he should be arraigned immediately. Mr Adeyanju also disclosed that the Cubana Chief Priest had been in touch with Darlingtons legal team since his public vow on Sunday. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The legal counsel said, The Cubana chief priest has contacted me. The idea is just to make Darlington enjoy his freedom. Speed Darlingtons case is a typical example of how police disregard the rule of law and how you can do away with it once youre powerful. He did not kill anybody; what a parody of some sort. The police are just shameless because this should be embarrassing enough. Long road to freedom Despite securing a favourable court ruling, Speed Darlingtons lawyer says the polices refusal to comply with the initial bail order has prolonged his ordeal. His continued detention, despite a Federal High Court order, has sparked outrage among his legal team, including Adeyanju and Stanley Alieke, and supporters, who have criticised the police for prolonging his detention and described it as an apparent misuse of authority. Burna Boy faced criticism for perceived double standards, with Speed Darlingtons lawyers accusing him of targeting the rapper for similar comments made by Cubana Chief Priest. Lawyer Stanley Alieke on Saturday challenged Burna Boy to take equivalent legal action against Cubana, saying, Hey, another person with more reach and influence just referenced the baby oil and Diddy banter, so the world is expecting you to engage the police and arrest him. Since your modus operandi or the streets will interpret it as cowardice. Mr Aliekes remarks highlight the double standard in Burna Boys approach, as he had earlier claimed that the Diddy and baby oil accusations damaged his reputation and caused him to lose gigs. Similarly, Mr Adeyanju later criticised Burna Boy for not taking the same legal action against Cubana Chief Priest as he did against Darlington. Netizens have even characterised Burna Boys gestures toward Cubanas alleged brother and Kenyan baby mama as acts of generosity toward the less privileged. They have called on content creator Lucky Udu, who highlighted the case of the brother and baby mama, to share similar stories in hopes of catching the Afrobeats stars attention and prompting further acts of kindness. Background PREMIUM TIMES reported how Burna Boy and Cubana Chief Priest clashed on Friday after Burna Boy referred to Cubana as an Azaman, implying he was merely a middleman. Burna Boy also described Cubana as a Rick Ross version of the East and hinted at his potential arrest, referencing past incidents. In response, Cubana accused Burna Boy of bitterness and questioned the legitimacy of his Grammy win, echoing allegations previously raised by Speed Darlington. Speed Darlingtons arrest results from a legal dispute with Burna Boy, which began in October when Darlington allegedly ridiculed Burna Boys association with American rapper Diddy, who was facing legal issues with the FBI. This led to a diss track titled Baby Oil, which criticised Burna Boy and gained traction on Spotify Nigerias Top 100. The feud deepened when Darlington demanded an apology from Burna Boys mother and N12 million in compensation. His subsequent arrest on 27 November during a performance in Owerri, Imo State, has been described by his legal team as a misuse of police power. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Hellen Mutimu, the alleged baby mama of nightlife mogul Cubana Chief Priest, has opened up on a shortlived and tumultuous affair that allegedly led to the birth of their son. The 43-year-old Cubana Chief Priest is married to Angel Okechukwu, and they have two sons. Ms Mutimus expose, which came to the fore on Sunday amidst her alleged estranged lovers online spat with Burna Boy, has been met with mixed reactions just as Burna Boy reportedly offered her accommodation and a job in Nigeria. She captured netizens attention when she claimed that she had been homeless with her son since 2023 after Chief Priest allegedly blocked her on social media. Ms Mutimu, a student and hairdresser, first made headlines in 2023 when she accused the nightlife entrepreneur of fathering her child, allegations Cubana Chief Priest tagged as blackmail, suggesting a DNA test be carried out. On Monday, Ms Mutimu spoke again about her ordeal in an interview with popular Content creator Lucky Udu. In a 27-minute interview on Monday, monitored by PREMIUM TIMES, Ms Mutimu highlighted how she met Cubana Chief Priest, allegedly got pregnant for him and has been solo parenting in the last two years. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Since the paternity scandal emerged two years ago, Cubana Chief Priest has denied the allegations against him. He stated that he is wealthy enough to support as many children as he wants if he chooses to engage in extramarital affairs. He described the claims as a cheap attempt at blackmail and challenged bloggers to conduct a DNA test at their own expense, promising to reimburse them if the child turned out to be his. He tagged bloggers as agents of destruction aimed at successful individuals but asserted that his relationship with his wife is unbreakable. Chance meeting Ms Mutimu said her ordeal began when she travelled to Lagos, Nigeria, in April 2022 for a friends wedding, where she met Cubana Chief Priest for the first time. She said, One evening, I went to a restaurant in Victoria Island (VI) for dinner, where I met Pascal, my babys father. After a brief conversation, we exchanged numbers, and I returned to my apartment. The next day, he called me, and we met again at the Intercontinental Hotel in Lagos. We talked, had some drinks, and then parted ways. Nothing happened between us at that point. I had no idea he was a prominent figure in Nigeria. I was new to the country, didnt know much about the people, and no one told me who he was. He didnt mention being married and introduced himself as Pascal Okuchukwu, not Chief Priest. After we became intimate, I started feeling unwell two weeks later. I was vomiting, so I took a test and discovered I was pregnant. I informed him, and he congratulated me. He promised to take care of me and assured me not to worry. When I asked if he was married, he avoided the question. Later, I found out who he was from a bouncer at the restaurant, and my friend confirmed he was Cubana Chief Priest, a married man with two children. By then, I was already pregnant. Pregnancy Despite her concerns, Ms Mutimu stated that she heeded his advice to return to Kenya, believing his promises of continued support. However, two weeks later, she claimed the Chiefpriest blocked her on all communication platforms, leaving her stranded. I told him I was a single mother with a son. He said it wasnt an issue and reassured me. He suggested I return to Kenya, promising wed stay in touch. I stayed in Nigeria until June; I was two months pregnant by then. I asked him for money to abort the pregnancy, but he delayed and told me not to rush. He sent me money for my apartment, so I thought he was kind and decided to trust him. He asked me to keep the child, and I agreed. She added, Two months later when my pregnancy became noticeable, I asked him again about the money. He told me not to worry and promised to send money for my return to Kenya. But two weeks after I got back to Kenya, he blocked me. I thought maybe he was uncomfortable with the pregnancy, so I stayed quiet and focused on my business. I used to own a salon, but when I left for Nigeria, my business suffered, and I eventually had to close it. Managing the shop became impossible because I was very sick during my pregnancy. During this time, Pascal stopped sending money and had blocked me. I struggled to make ends meet. Neglect, manipulation She revealed that she had reached out to Cubana several times after giving birth but was met with disdain. She stated that the socialite unblocked her on Instagram, only to allegedly demand explicit photos before blocking her again when she refused. She further disclosed that the only financial assistance she received from Cubana was insignificant, and she had sent instalments because of her account restrictions. The Kenyan alleged, I felt manipulated and hurt. He knew the child was his; we didnt use protection, and he was the only person I was with in Nigeria. Yet, he refused to acknowledge or support the child. When my baby was about seven or eight months old, I tried contacting him through friends and old numbers, but nothing worked. Eventually, he responded on Instagram, saying he missed me and asked for my nude pictures. When I refused, he blocked me again. After giving birth, I sent him a picture of the baby, but he insulted me, calling my child a bastard and using a vomiting emoji. He denied the child was his, which was devastating. Since then, Ive been solely responsible for my child. I only went to Gistlover after all attempts to reach him failed. Eventually, he sent me N300,000, but only in small instalments because my student account couldnt take more significant amounts. Thats the only financial support Ive received from him. I live with a friend because my house was closed. The 31-year-old also revealed that Nigerian actress Tonto Dikeh sent her 1 million during this challenging time. She said, I am overwhelmed by Burna Boys kindness. Its rare for someone to step in and help like this. Im also thankful to Tonto Dikeh for her generosity. Theyve done more for me than the man who fathered my child, she said. Despite her struggles, Hellen insists her intention is not to tarnish Cubanas reputation but to secure a better future for her son. I respect Pascal because he is my childs father. I didnt come to social media to destroy his name or extort money. I just want my child to have a chance at a good life, the alleged baby mama concluded. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Monday that he will step down as leader of the Liberal Party, Canadas governing party. During a news conference in Ottawa, Canadas capital, Mr Trudeau announced his resignation before the general election, stating that the country deserves a real choice. He resigned after about eight years as prime minister and a decade as the leader of the Liberal Party. He began serving as prime minister in 2015, and as leader of the party in 2013. He stated that although he intends to resign and step away from the helm of the ruling party, he plans to stay on as prime minister until a new leader is selected. I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister after the party selects its next leader through a robust nationwide, competitive process. Last night, I asked the president of the Liberal Party to begin that process. This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if I have to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election, he said. His resignation follows significant pressure from within his party, including calls from Liberal caucus members, declining approval ratings, and challenges in retaining support ahead of the next federal election. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Trudeaus time as Prime Minister While he will remain in office during the transition, his announcement signals the end of his leadership tenure. During the conference, he also announced that the Canadian Parliament will be suspended until March 24, when a confidence vote will occur. Parliament has been entirely seized by obstruction and filibustering and a total lack of productivity over the past few months. We are the longest-serving minority government in history, and it is time for a reset, Mr Trudeau stated. Since he assumed office in 2015, the prime minister has been re-elected twice. His time in office has been marred by several political scandals, such as the resignation of his then Justice Minister, Jody Wilson-Raybould. Similarly, in 2019, his re-election campaign faced backlash after images surfaced of him as a young man wearing brownface on multiple occasions. Despite these controversies, Mr Trudeau retained power for nine years. Calls for Mr Trudeau to step down intensified in December 2024 after he attempted to demote Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, one of his closest cabinet allies, following her opposition to his plans for increased spending. Ms Freeland, instead, resigned and issued a statement accusing Mr Trudeau of prioritising political gimmicks over the countrys best interests. Proposed motion to topple Trudeau The prime minister also lost public acceptance due to the growing cost of living. Amidst the growing call for his resignation in December, Jagmeet Singh, the leader of the New Democratic Party, issued an open letter announcing his intention to introduce a motion to topple Mr Trudeaus government. Justin Trudeau has failed in the most important task beholden to a prime minister: working for the people and not for the powerful. The liberals of Justin Trudeau have made many beautiful promises. Yet they have let down the people, again and again, Mr Singh said, according to CNBC. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has outlined its priorities to reposition Nigerias Primary Health Care (PHC) system and tackle critical health challenges. The Chief Executive Officer of the agency, Muyi Aina, made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Monday. Mr Aina said the agencys top three goals include improving PHC functionality and expanding coverage, increasing the quality and capacity of health workers, and implementing targeted interventions to reduce maternal and under-five mortality rates. He said the agency aims to revamp PHCs by expanding the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) facilities from 8,400 to 17,600 over the next few years. This includes investing in dignified infrastructure, 24-hour services powered by solar energy, and accommodation for healthcare workers, he said. He said President Bola Tinubu has shown commitment by increasing the health sector budget for 2024, which is the highest ever. He noted that this funding is enabling the agency to revitalise PHCs with better infrastructure, essential medicines, and motivated health workers. To tackle the shortage of healthcare workers, Mr Aina said the agency had launched a large-scale retraining programme for 120,000 frontline health workers over four years. Already, 43,000 workers have been trained under this initiative. Efforts are also being made to improve staff retention by creating a conducive working environment, providing accommodation, and offering special incentives for rural workers. He said in line with President Tinubus commitment to reduce maternal mortality, the agency had rolled out the Maternal Mortality Reduction Initiative, which includes free caesarean sections for eligible Nigerians. PHCs are also being equipped to handle both infectious and non-communicable diseases, with services like diabetes and hypertension screening integrated into their operations, he said. He acknowledged past challenges, such as poor funding and coordination among federal, state, and non-governmental actors. He, however, said the Federal Ministry of Health had introduced a sector-wide approach to unify efforts and maximise resources. The agency has also partnered with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Department of State Services to ensure transparency and accountability in fund management, he said. Reacting to the agencys ambitious goals and ongoing reforms, some stakeholders said it signalled a new era for Nigerias PHC system. They said it aimed to ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of location or income, can access quality healthcare services. Meanwhile, Gabriel Adakole, a public health expert, said the NPHCDAs focus on revitalising PHCs was long overdue, as PHCs remained the backbone of healthcare delivery in Nigeria. Mr Adakole said expanding BHCPF facilities to 17,600 is commendable, but the real challenge will be ensuring consistent funding and effective management of these facilities, he said. Without addressing corruption and inefficiencies in the health system, these plans can face setbacks. A maternal health specialist, Amina Yusuf, said the Maternal Mortality Reduction Initiative, especially the provision of free caesarean sections, is a game-changer in reducing maternal deaths. Ms Yusuf, however, said this would only succeed if rural PHCs were adequately equipped and staffed. She noted that retaining skilled health workers in underserved areas remains a significant hurdle, even with incentives like accommodation. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later A Health System Researcher, Tony Onwuchekwa, said the proposed integration of chronic disease management into PHCs is a step in the right direction, given the rising burden of non-communicable diseases in Nigeria. However, Mr Onwuchekwa said training healthcare workers to handle both infectious and chronic diseases would require a comprehensive curriculum overhaul and sustained mentorship programmes. Ngozi Udochi, Health Economist, said the presidents budgetary increase for healthcare is promising, but the real test would be in the efficient allocation and utilisation of resources. Ms Udochi said investing in solar-powered facilities and essential drugs is also commendable, but regular audits and community involvement would be critical in ensuring sustainability. A Global Health Advocate, Fatima Bello, noted that the emphasis on transparency and accountability through partnerships with anti-corruption agencies is a bold move. Ms Bello said it is essential to ensure that these mechanisms are implemented at all levels, especially in rural areas, where fund mismanagement often goes unnoticed. NAN Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Nigerias diplomatic missions have continued to be without Ambassadors and High Commissioners since they were recalled on 2 September, 2023 by the Tinubu administration. The only exceptions were the countrys Permanent Representatives at the United Nations in New York and Geneva. This is 16 months after; therefore, it is time that government filled these spaces in our diplomatic relations, which have telling reputational consequences. When the decision to recall the Ambassadors and High Commissioners was taken barely three months into Tinubus assumption of office, it was largely seen as a routine and geared towards bringing new political appointees on board, as it is often the case. At such times, the performances of career diplomats are reviewed, with some of them reassigned for improved efficiency and output, in addition to the appointment of a few other political appointees for diplomatic postings. The country has 109 diplomatic missions, comprising 76 Embassies, 22 High Commissions and 11 Consulates affected in the subsisting disruption. These entities are now being overseen by Consule-Generals and Charge DAffairs, who are mere administrative officers whose offices do not possess the same respect, charisma or gravitas as those of ambassadors, to engage their host nations at the highest levels. Ambassadors or High Commissioners are not only the political heads of foreign missions but they equally serve as the eyes and ears of the president in their places of posting. They pursue, vigorously, the countrys interests that encapsulate the economic/trade, security, political, cultural, and educational welfare of Nigerians in the Diaspora. On the basis of all this, they regularly file reports back home to guide policy decisions and actions. Ironically, President Tinubus diplomatic shuttles have been remarkable with the several deals he has struck across numerous countries. On 2 December, 2024, he returned from such engagement that took him to France, where he spent three days. From there he travelled to South Africa, which made it his 33rd nation visited since coming to power. Others he had visited include China, Germany, the United States, India, Netherlands and Brazil. While in France, he signed two bilateral agreements that would bolster infrastructure and food security in the country. In South Africa, he signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Nigeria/South Africa 11th Bi-National Commission, which would consolidate the partnership the two countries have toward improving the African narrative in trade and economic development. His charge there was instructive: Let us not count on the successes by the number of MoUs and agreements signed. They will be mere papers until we implement them in spirit and letters. This is the job of our senior officials and I must implore them to redouble their efforts in this regard. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later This statement actually presents some self-indictment with his emphasis on the implementation of signed deals, which are under the schedule of senior officials or ambassadors to take to the next level and fruition. As anchors in diplomatic relations, without them, the whole exercise becomes just drudgery and futile. As in the South African case, so it is pertaining to other countries. Nigerias self-imposed isolationism in the global diplomatic space is quite unfortunate and unacceptable. It is unbecoming of a nation that wants to be taken as a crescent factor in the international arena. We wager that a number of serious meetings of national interest would have been held by ambassadors in the 109 countries that Nigeria has missions in this past 16 months, without the countrys presence. Meaning that we have had no representation in these very crucial fora, as Charge DAffairs are persona non-grata in such gatherings. The lack of proper funding of these missions has been identified as a major challenge. This, again, throws up the filth in governance in Nigeria, over how public funds are brazenly looted and mismanaged, without the culprits held to account. It is not in the countrys best interest to keep its ambassadors away from their duty posts for this long in an age of globalisation, where bilateralism, multilateralism or interdependence underpin existence or survival. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tugar, had drawn attention to the fiscal crisis in the missions mid last year. Then, the ministry spokesman, Eche Abu-Ode, had suggested a possible 2023 supplementary budget reprieve for the missions. But this was not to be. The value of that extra budget was N2.176 trillion. And, it was followed by the 2024 appropriation of N28.7 trillion, which was subsequently reviewed upwards, with an additional N6.2 trillion in a supplementary budget. In all of this, the fiscal challenge of Nigerias embassies did not matter. It is in the 2025 budget before the National Assembly that N53 billion has been allocated for the renovation of 103 foreign missions. The Foreign Affairs ministry has a budgetary total of N287 billion. The House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs, chaired by Wale Oke, does not consider this sum enough. As a result, it has summoned Mr Tugar, the Minister of Budget and National Planning, the Director-General in charge of Budget, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry for a meeting. With the rehabilitation expenditure of the missions in the budget, this means that ambassadors would not be redeployed anytime soon. There are rents and arrears of allowances of the staff of embassies to be cleared. The total sum is not publicly known. Despite the foregoing, the Tinubu administration cannot reasonably use cash crisis as an excuse to continually impair the activities of our foreign missions. The problem lies in the misplaced priorities of the administration. A government with a high premium on its diplomatic missions would not have spent N90 billion to subsidise hajj operations in November 2023, shortly after recalling the diplomats. It used N4 billion to renovate Dodan Barracks in Lagos as the presidents official residence and another N3 billion for another official quarters in Lagos for the Vice President. These houses are hardly used, as his gleaming Bourdillon mansion in Ikoyi is so close by, and which is where he stays each time he visits Lagos. So, why the waste of scare public resources? From the same 2023 additional budget, a N5 billion yacht was paid for. Aguda House, hitherto the official residence of the vice-president, gulped N2.5 billion for renovation. It has now been abandoned with the N21 billion new official residence for the Vice President completed. These are highly wasteful expenditures in our view. And there are much more of such. Everything must be done to redeploy ambassadors to our mission immediately. The excuse of the lack of funds and Tinubus repeated entreaties and assurances to foreign investors of Nigerias readiness for business are ironies of sorts. The degree of respect, influence and dignity a country commands in the global space could involve granular details such as the incapacitation of its embassies. For Nigeria, this is happening at a time it is seeking permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council in its envisioned enlargement; including membership of the G20 and BRICS. Mere lobbying for these spots are not enough. Nigerias weight and reach are critical, which are being vitiated by its failure to effectively run its embassies. International relations are nothing more than the projecting of the domestic scene abroad. Therefore, the reflection we behold is quite unedifying. Nigeria presently has a diplomatic standoff with Niger Republic, with the allegation of its military junta that our country is forging a tie with France to destabilise it. Super Eagles were de-humanised in Libya late last year with the players abandonment at the airport for a night without hotel accommodation. It forced them not to play the AFCON game that took them there. These challenges and their remedies underscore the role of ambassadors. As a result, the National Assembly should use its power of appropriation to nudge Tinubu to end the rot of dysfunctional embassies globally. It has weakened the countrys stock in diplomatic circles, whose denizens watch the disorder in utter bemusement and with snide remarks. PREMIUM TIMES therefore advises the president to end this faux paus now. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print A legal battle is brewing between the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and its former employees, who were dismissed in a series of mass termination of appointments earlier in 2024. The retrenched staff alleged that the apex bank violated internal policies, Nigerian labour laws, and their contractual rights. Represented by Stephen Gana and 32 others, the claimants filed a class-action lawsuit at the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN), Abuja. The court documents claimed that their termination exercise, issued through letters titled Reorganisational and Human Capital Restructuring, dated 5 April 2024, contravened Section 36 of the Nigerian Constitution and the CBN Human Resources Policies and Procedures Manual (HRPPM). The claimants argued that the process lacked the required consultation and fair hearing mandated by law. The originating summons, filed pursuant to the NICN Civil Procedure Rules 2017 on 4 July 2024, outlines several questions for the courts determination, chief among which is whether the claimants were denied their constitutional right to a fair hearing before and after the termination of their appointments. They further contended that the termination letters, issued on the grounds of restructuring, were arbitrary, unlawful, and unconstitutional. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The dismissed employees are seeking judicial declarations that their terminations are null, void, and of no effect, insisting that they remain employees of the apex bank. They also demanded their immediate reinstatement, payment of salaries and benefits from the date of termination, and a restraining order against any further attempts by the CBN to dismiss them outside due process. The court filing references Article 16.4.1 of the HRPPM, which mandates consultation with the Joint Consultative Council and adherence to fair procedures before employment actions adversely affect staff. The claimants alleged that this provision was flagrantly disregarded, as they were given just three days to vacate their positions and hand over official property. Additionally, the claimants are seeking N30 billion in general damages for psychological distress, hardship, and reputational harm caused by the dismissal. They have also requested a further N500 million as the cost of the suit. The retrenched staff argued that they enjoyed a status often referred to in labour law as statutory flavour which imposes stricter conditions on their dismissal compared to regular employment contracts, including adherence to public service rules and other governing statutes. Amicable Resolution The court on 20 November 2024 urged an amicable resolution in the lawsuit. Documents seen by PREMIUM TIMES showed that Presiding Justice O. A. Obaseki Osaghae noted that the claimants were represented by Stephen Salawu Gana and their counsel, while CBN was represented by its legal team, headed by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Inam Wilson. The court acknowledged the defendants preliminary objection, filed on 4 November 2024, challenging the suits admissibility. The claimants responded with a counter-affidavit, which their counsel confirmed had been served. Justice Obaseki Osaghae, in her remarks, noted the cases first mention and encouraged both parties to explore a settlement under Section 20 of the National Industrial Court Act (NICA) 2006. It is my view that parties should attempt an amicable resolution of this dispute, she stated. The matter was adjourned to 29 January 2025 for the hearing of the preliminary objection or to review the progress of any settlement discussions. Layoff Background Documents obtained by this newspaper reveal that the termination of appointments, conducted in four batches between March and May 2024, left many employees financially devastated. Some workers claimed that they received severance payments as low as N5,000, while others claim their gratuities were absorbed entirely to offset outstanding loans. The terminations were officially attributed to a reorganisation and human capital restructuring, but the retrenched staff argued that the process violated the CBN Act, which mandates board approval for significant employment decisions. There is no evidence that the Board approved these dismissals, said one affected employee. The Bank acted arbitrarily, bypassing due process and leaving us with no option but to seek justice in court. So far, 218 employees are said to have been affected by the mass terminations that took place between March and May 2024. The breakdown of those affected includes 116 executive-level staff, 97 senior-level employees, and five junior-level workers. These terminations were implemented in four batches, with the largest batch involving 129 employees, primarily at the executive and senior levels. Hardest Hit The massive layoffs were done in four batches on 15 March, 22 March, 5 April, and 24 May. Staff affected by the first batch appear to be the worst hit. Documents seen by this newspaper showed that their letters failed to specify whether they would receive severance payments or any form of compensation. The new strategic direction of the Bank has been widely publicised. In line with our new mission and vision, the Bank is currently undergoing a significant organisational and human capital restructuring process. As a result of this review, I have been directed to notify you that your services will no longer be required with effect from Friday, 15 March 2024. You are kindly requested to hand over all Banks properties in your possession to your Departments Administrator, with immediate effect, it read. Sources close to the matter disclosed that employees with six to 10 years of service were informed that their gratuities would be used to offset outstanding loans with the bank. After close to a decade of work, I was left with nothing but debt, said one former staff member who wished to remain anonymous. By the time they had deducted my gratuity, I still owed the Bank over N30 million. How does anyone survive this? According to him, some staff still owe the bank between N25 million to N35 million, as their gratuities were insufficient due to the relatively short time they had worked. Although subsequent batches, dated 22 March, 24 May, and 5 April, assured recipients that final entitlements would be calculated and paid,, they too lacked critical details about severance packages, payment timelines, or specific benefits. You are kindly requested to hand over all Banks properties in your possession to your Departments Administrator, with immediate effect. Meanwhile, your final entitlement will be paid to you after your indebtedness to the Bank has been determined, it read. Staff who had worked for 10 to 20 years were reportedly left with severance payments as low as N5,000 to N6,000. Fifteen years of loyalty and hard work, and all I got was N5,000, said another former employee. This is not just a breach of trust but an outright disgrace. The deductions were attributed to the banks policy of using gratuities to clear outstanding loan balances, including staff cooperative loans. They took everything from usour gratuities, allowances, and dignity, said one affected staff. What little was left after deductions could barely cover a weeks expenses. CBNs Defence In its preliminary statement of objection, the CBN defended its decision to terminate the employment of several staff members, insisting the action was carried out in line with the terms of their contracts. The bank argued that it paid the affected employees three months salary in lieu of notice, as stipulated in their agreements, and maintained that the dismissals were not linked to any allegations of misconduct or wrongdoing. It described the termination as part of an internal restructuring process, which it claimed fell within its rights as an organisation. Rejecting the claimants assertions of unfair treatment, the CBN dismissed the suit as frivolous and lacking in merit. It also raised jurisdictional objections, contending that the case did not fall within the remit of the National Industrial Court, and vowed to rely on a series of documents, including board resolutions and termination notices, to support its position. Efforts to obtain a response from the bank regarding the allegations were unsuccessful. Calls to the banks spokesperson, Hakama Ali, did not connect, and a text message seeking clarification on on the layoffs and addressing claims of inadequate severance packages went unanswered. Additionally, a follow-up email to her official address was not responded to as of the time of publication. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Nigeria National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Foundation has commenced its free cataract extraction surgery for 1000 people in states within the South-west region. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the screening for the surgery began on 16 Dec 2024, while the surgeries commenced on Monday. Speaking with NAN, Anne Amugo, the lead consultant physician for the foundation, said the initiative was intended to give back to society. Ms Amugo said no fewer than 100 persons had been scheduled for surgery on Monday at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta. She said the surgeries would be performed at the FMC Abeokuta, Likosi Health Centre, Mosimi, FMC Joga and FMC Ajebo, all in Ogun State. She said the four centres would cater to beneficiaries from the South-West states of Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti. Our team is working together to bring succour to Nigerians. Blindness brings darkness to a persons life, but the hope of restoring light is treasure you cant imagine, she said. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later We have commenced the surgeries proper today, but well have the formal flag-off on Wednesday. Also speaking, Peter Abikoye, a consultant ophthalmologist at FMC Abeokuta, commended the initiative, saying, It is worthy of emulation. Mr Abikoye described the initiative as a Christmas and New Year gift for the elderly. He said surgeries had already been performed on 50 persons while assuring that the other 50 would be completed before the end of work on Monday. Some of the beneficiaries who spoke with NAN appreciated the foundation for finding it worthy of blessing them with the initiative. Omolayo Tijani, a teacher, expressed her happiness for benefiting from the free surgery. Mrs Tijani said she underwent screening in December 2024 and was happy to have had the surgery on Monday morning. Another beneficiary, Isaac Ayanwale, also expressed profound gratitude to the organisers, saying he had been running around to raise money for his cataract surgery before he heard about the initiative on the radio. Mr Ayanwale expressed hope of regaining his sight when he visits the hospital on Tuesday to remove the plaster on the eye. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print A report by the office of Nigerias Auditor-General has indicted the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) for alleged misappropriation of funds and diversion of revenue meant for the Federation in 2021. The indictments are contained in the 2021 Auditor-Generals annual report published in November 2024. The 558-page report was recently submitted to the National Assembly as Nigerias Constitution provides. The report shows a troubling blend of questions bordering on misappropriation of funds involving the NNPCL. In one case, the auditor general indicted the state-owned oil firm of unauthorised deductions of N82.9 billion from federation revenue for refinery rehabilitation. The NNPCL also got knocks from the report for its irregular deductions of funds from domestic crude sales at source, which the auditor general said was a breach of the Nigerian Constitution and Financial Regulations (3106 and 3129) 2009 in respect of economy of expenditure. The report recommended that the Group Chief Executive Officer of the NNPCL should furnish reasons to the Public Accounts Committees of the National Assembly, for the unauthorised deduction of funds and to recover and remit the sum of the lost funds to the governments treasury. Unaccounted N82 billion From the review of NNPCL payment records for 2020 and 2021, the audit observed that N82.9 billion was deducted from the sale of Crude Oil and Gas (Federation Revenue) from the 2020 and 2021 records, and a total of N82.9 billion which were deducted at source for purported Refineries Rehabilitation. The report said the above transactions were not supported by evidence of authorisation and approvals before the deductions were made. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The auditor general said the anomalies discovered in the accounts of the NNPCL could be attributed to weaknesses in its internal control system. It could also amount to misappropriation of funds, diversion of revenue meant for the federation and loss of federation revenue, the report stated. The deductions of funds violated Section 162 (1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) which states: The Federation shall maintain a special account to be called the Federation Account into which shall be paid all revenues collected by the Government of the Federation, except the proceeds from the personal income tax of the personnel of the armed forces of the Federation, the Nigeria Police Force, the Ministry or Department of government charged with responsibility for Foreign Affairs and the residents of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Similarly, it contravenes paragraph 213(ii) of the Financial Regulations (FR), which states that On no account shall any withdrawal be made from the revenue account other than for the purpose of transfer to the consolidated account. In addition, paragraph 223 of the FR 2009 states, No deductions shall be made from any revenue collections or other receipts to adjust a previous over-credit. The gross amount received must, on all occasions, be accounted for in full. The procedure for refunds of revenue and advance payments above is prescribed in Financial Regulations 3006. The NNPCL management did not respond to the queries and concerns raised by the auditor general. Auditors fear that the NNPCLs actions may have resulted in the misappropriation of funds and the diversion of revenue meant for the federation. The report then recommended that henceforth, the Group Chief Executive of NNPCL should ensure that amounts due for the Federation Account are not subjected to any deductions before remittance of the net. Irregular deductions of N343 billion The report stated that from the review of the NNPC SAP Payment record for March and May 2021, N484.7 billion was the gross amount generated for the sale of Domestic Crude for March and May 2021. However, auditors said N343.6 billion from the gross amount was unilaterally deducted from the gross domestic crude sales to fund NNPC Value shortfall, Strategic Stock Holding Cost, Crude Oil and Products Pipeline Losses, as well as the pipelines maintenance and management costs. Details of each of the cost components deducted above were not provided for audit review, hence reasons for the deductions could not be justified by the management of NNPCL, the report said. It added that in May 2021, the net payable which could have been remitted ought to have been N127 billion but only N77 billion was remitted by the NNPCL, leaving an unremitted balance of N50 billion to the Federation Account, which has remained largely unaccounted for. Again, these irregular deductions are in breach of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution and 2009 Financial Regulations. In this regard, the GCEO of the NNPCL was asked to provide reasons to the Public Accounts Committees of the National Assembly, why N343.6 billion was unilaterally deducted from the Federation Account revenue proceeds at source for the months of March and May 2021, contrary to the provisions of extant financial laws. The auditor general also wants the N343 billion recovered and remitted to the treasury. Warehousing miscellaneous income The auditor general also expressed shock at the warehousing of N83.6 billion from the federations miscellaneous income. Auditors observed from the review of the financial records of the NNPCL that N83.6 billion being miscellaneous income from the NNPC joint venture operations from the year 2016 to 2020 was sunk into the CBN/NNPC sinking fund account instead of the Federation Account. The auditor general is concerned that this practice has led the Federation to resort to borrowings. Treasury Circular Ref. No. TRY/A12 & B12/2013 dated 19 November 2013, made it compulsory for unspent balances as of 31 December, or as may be extended, to be paid back to the treasury. Also, paragraph 414 of the Financial Regulations (FR) 2009 states the unexpended portion of any sub-head shall not be drawn for the purpose of setting it in reserve to meet impending payments or be carried to a deposit or a suspense account The auditor general suspects the money may have been diverted. Hence, he wants the funds recovered and remitted to the treasury. Auditors also requested the GCEO of NNPCL to explain to the Public Accounts Committees of the National Assembly why the N83.6 miscellaneous income from the NNPC joint venture operations from 2016 to 2020 was sunk into the CBN/NNPC sinking fund account. More unexplained funds PREMIUM TIMES further review of the audit report reveals that N3.7 billion was controversially paid to a company as a shortfall in sales of MT cargo of PMS. In 2021, an internal memo advised marketers to pay naira sales proceeds in advance into the companys designated accounts, from which the company utilised N3.7 billion to purchase forex through NNPC Group treasury to pay the suppliers. The auditor general said details of the transaction between the NNPC, PPMC and the company that gave rise to the N3.7 billion which was paid to the company as a shortfall on sales of MT cargo of petrol were not provided for audit. The above transaction violated Paragraph 603 (i) of the Financial Regulations (FR) which states that: All vouchers shall contain full particulars of each service, such as dates, numbers, quantities, distances and rates, so as to enable them to be checked without reference to any other documents and will invariably be supported by relevant documents such as local purchase orders, invoices, special letters of authority, time sheets, etc. Furthermore, paragraph 415 of the Financial Regulations (FR) states The federal government requires all officers responsible for expenditure to exercise due economy. Money must not be spent merely because it has been voted. Similarly, paragraph 3106 of FR states A public officer who makes an irregular payment from public funds, shall be given 21 days notice to offer an explanation. Where no satisfactory explanation is given, the amount involved shall be recovered from the officer and such officer shall be removed from the schedule. The auditor general fears that the NNPCLs actions may have resulted in a loss of public funds. He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury. It is unclear whether the NNPCL management had responded to the queries raised by the auditor general as of the time of filing this report. Olufemi Soneye, the spokesperson of the NNPCL, did not respond to our correspondent call and text message. SERAP reacts In responding to the issues raised by the auditor general, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) urged Mele Kyari, the GCEO of NNPCL, to account for and explain the whereabouts of the alleged missing funds as documented in the 2021 annual report by the Auditor-General of the Federation. The grim allegations by the Auditor-General suggest a grave violation of the public trust and the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, national anticorruption laws, and the countrys international obligations, SERAP said, adding that, the allegations have undermined economic development of the country, trapped the majority of Nigerians in poverty and deprived them of opportunities. The organisation, in a Sunday statement, urged Mr Kyari to identify those suspected to be responsible for the disappeared oil money and hand them over to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print After returning 37.7 per cent last year, Nigerian stocks started 2025 on a promising note. In Africa, the Nigerian Exchange emerged the third top-performing equity index behind only the stock exchanges of Zambia and Ghana. For the first week of the year, the main equity index advanced by 0.6 per cent across four trading days, marked by an unusually strong interest in insurance stocks, which accounted for eight of the top ten gainers. Looking forward, the equities market is expected to retain its buy interest as investors cherry-pick undervalued stocks, analysts at United Capital said ahead of the week. The Bulls will remain incentivized to persist in bargain hunting, given the tremendous mid-long-term opportunities in the equities market. Fund managers and businesses may entertain mid-long-term (3 months) investment objectives, cherry-picking only sound equities with strong fundamentals and ongoing/pending corporate actions, they added. PREMIUM TIMES has assembled some stocks with fundamentals and other potential, adopting key analytical approaches to save you the hassle of randomly picking equities for investment. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The selection, a product of analytical market watch, offers a guide to entering the market and taking strategic positions in hopes that equities will increase in value with the passage of time. This is not a buy, sell or hold recommendation but a stock investment guide. You may need to involve your financial advisor before taking investment decisions. Total Energies Marketing Nigeria Total Energies tops this weeks pick for trading significantly below its underlying value. The relative strength index (RSI) of the energy company is 23.4, while its price-to-earnings (PE) ratio is 2.9x. The price-to-book (PB) ratio is 2.2x. Access Holdings Access Holdings makes this weeks list for trading significantly below its intrinsic value, brightening its chances of strong price appreciation in the future. The lenders RSI is 52.9, while the PE ratio is 1.1x. The PB ratio is 0.4x. John Holt John Holt features on this weeks list for currently trading below its intrinsic value. The companys RSI is 63.5, while the PE ratio is 1.4x. Its PB ratio is 0.8x. University Press University Press appears in the pick for trading below its underlying value. Its RSI is 49.8, while the PE ratio is 8.8x. The PB ratio is 0.3x. Linkage Assurance Linkage Assurance appears on the list for trading significantly below its underlying value. The insurers RSI is 88.4, while its PE ratio is 3.6x. The PB ratio is 0.5x. C and I Leasing C and I Leasing makes the cut for currently trading below its intrinsic value. The companys RSI is 72.6, while the PE ratio is 5.9x. The PB ratio is 0.2x. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Kano State Commissioner for Project Monitoring and Evaluation, Muhammad Diggol, on Sunday resigned from his appointment. The spokesperson to Governor Abba Yusuf, Sanusi Bature, said the governor has accepted the resignation and wished Mr Diggol success in his future endeavours. Mr Diggol was the Commissioner for Transportation but was later transferred to the Ministry of Project Monitoring and Evaluation in a recent cabinet reshuffle. Mr Bature said, Governor Yusuf expressed his gratitude to Mr Diggol for his selfless service, unwavering commitment, dedication, and exemplary work ethic during his tenure as a member of the State Executive Council. No reason (s) was given for the resignation. Meanwhile, the governor has recalled two commissioners he sacked in December and assigned them new roles. Ibrahim Fagge, who was dropped as Commissioner for Finance, has been named as the chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, while Ladidi Garko, removed as Commissioner of Culture and Tourism, is now the chairman of the Kano State Civil Service Commission. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has raised concerns over a surge in Lassa fever cases nationwide, with Bauchi, Edo, and Ondo States recording higher numbers since November 2024. The Director-General of NCDC, Jide Idris, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Monday. Mr Idris said the disease control agency had issued a comprehensive public advisory on Lassa fever, urging Nigerians to adopt preventive measures as cases continue to rise during the peak transmission season. He warned that the peak dry season, which lasts until April, could exacerbate outbreak if preventive measures are not strictly adhered to. NAN reports that Lassa fever, named after the town of Lassa in Borno, where it was first identified in 1969, is endemic in Nigeria, with outbreaks occurring almost yearly. The viral haemorrhagic disease is primarily transmitted through contact with food or surfaces contaminated with excretions from infected rodents. The disease can also spread through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected persons, making healthcare workers and caregivers particularly vulnerable. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Symptoms range from mild fever and joint pain to severe bleeding from the nose, mouth and gastrointestinal tract. The disease is fatal in about 20 per cent of cases, particularly when treatment is delayed. The NCDC boss, therefore, recommended frequent handwashing with soap and water, storing food items in rodent-proof containers and proper disposal of waste to deter rodents. He stressed the need for increased public awareness and early intervention, which he described as keys to curbing an outbreak. He added that the centre intensified surveillance and response activities in affected states and advised Nigerians to report suspected cases to the nearest health facility and ensure that proper hygiene practices are observed. He said late reporting of cases had been a major concern, which hindered effective containment. Meanwhile, Tunde Oladipo, a public health expert, described the Lassa fever outbreak as a serious but preventable health crisis. Mr Oladipo said strict hygiene practices, proper food storage and rodent control are crucial to reducing transmission. He urged individuals to avoid unprotected contact with sick persons or their fluids. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Nigerian Army has uncovered 20 illegal refining sites and apprehended 11 suspected operators of the facilities during ongoing raids in Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers States. Danjuma Danjuma, the Nigerian Army 6 Division spokesperson in Port Harcourt, announced Monday that troops had also dismantled the illegal refineries. He said that soldiers also confiscated 31 boats, seven vehicles, and 190,000 litres of petroleum products and arrested 11 suspected oil thieves between 30 December 2024 and 5 January. At Oando Wellhead in Benkrukru, within the Okordia general area of Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, troops discovered four oil sewage tanks containing over 70,000 litres of stolen crude oil. We also recovered 700 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil packed in sacks, along with a suction machine. Mr Danjuma, a lieutenant colonel, said that troops subsequently advanced to the Amalaghakiri community in the Nembe area of Bayelsa, where two additional illegal refining sites were destroyed, and 15,000 litres of unidentified petroleum products were seized. He said soldiers dismantled an illegal artisanal refinery and confiscated 1,500 litres of stolen products in Oyeregbene, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later In Omoku, Rivers, troops interrupted oil thieves siphoning petroleum products. The suspects fled before we arrived. At the scene, we discovered an illegal connection point on the Oando Pipeline in Ebocha and seized four boats carrying over 22,000 litres of stolen products. In the Obiafu oil field and Mbgede in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni, troops dismantled four illegal refineries and confiscated five wooden boats, 108 locally made ovens, and 38,000 litres of petroleum products, he added. The army spokesperson stated that further operations in the Ozaa West, Obuzor, and Okoloma communities dismantled two illegal refineries. Other seized items included 32 drum pots, 21 drum receivers, two pumping machines, and 13,000 litres of stolen petroleum products. He added that soldiers on routine patrol along the Pan Ocean Nigeria Ltd pipeline in Ivada, Ethiope West, Delta State, intercepted vehicles engaged in illegal activities. Two J5 Boxer vehicles were found transporting 15 cellophane bags containing 7,500 litres of stolen products. Additionally, 2,500 litres of crude oil were seized at Ikengbensi waterways in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta. Eight drums, holding approximately 2,240 litres of petrol, were intercepted at Ibaka, Akwa Ibom State, awaiting smuggling to a neighbouring country, Mr Danjuma said. He said that the suspects would be charged in court. The General Officer Commanding the division, Major-General Jamal Abdussalam, has urged troops to intensify their efforts to eradicate all illegal refining sites across Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers States in 2025. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) has expressed concern over the recent vandalisation of electricity installations within its operational area in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State. In a statement issued on Sunday, Emeka Ezeh, head of Corporate Communications, EEDC, said the loss of power supply in areas of Abakaliki was because of the vandalisation of the Udemezue 11KV Feeder in the early hours of the day. Mr Ezeh said the affected areas include Oroko-onuoha, Udensi, Kpirikpiri, Ogbaga Road, New Layout, Udemezue, Low-Cost Housing Estate, and Hilltop Road. According to him, notable establishments such as Amikaba, Siren Hotel, Man City Hotel, Muchels Hotel, De Pablo Hotel, and Unity FM radio station have also been impacted. Mr Ezeh explained that EEDC officials on patrol discovered the vandalism at 02:40 a.m. following an abnormal outage on the feeder. He added that the vandals stole approximately 16 metres of underground 150mm2 x 3core armoured cable from the source of the feeder. Because of the incident, over 70 public and private transformers serving many customers under the feeder are currently without supply. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later We sincerely regret this unprecedented development and hereby appeal to our customers for their patience and understanding as we are already working to replace the stolen and damaged items, he said. He assured that the power supply would be restored after repairs and replacements were completed. Mr Ezeh reaffirmed the companys commitment to delivering improved services to its customers. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has dismissed 27 of its officers from service for fraud and other acts of misconduct. A statement from the agency said on Monday that the purge followed the recommendation of the Staff Disciplinary Committee of the EFCC ratified by the chairperson of the commission, Ola Olukoyede. However, the statement did not reveal the identities of the 27 affected officials and the cases against them, a repeat of similar announcement by Mr Olukoyede in November 2024 of the dismissal of two corrupt officials of the agency. Mondays statement of the commission only promised to investigate all allegations of fraud and misconduct levelled against its officials. Every modicum of allegation against any staff of the Commission would always be investigated, including a trending $400,000 claim of a yet-to-be-identified supposed staff of the EFCC against a Sectional Head. The core values of the Commission are sacrosanct and would always be held in optimal regard at all times, the statement said. In October last year, shortly after his appointment as the EFCCs chairman, Mr Olukoyede, who formerly served as the secretary of the agency and ex-chief of staff to the commissions chair for a cumulative period of about four years, asked staff members to declare their assets and prepare for investigations. We will declare our assets, and we are going to investigate it. We must live above board by setting the pace with good examples. As anti- corruption fighters, our hands must be clean, so we must declare our assets, he said at the corporate headquarters of the commission in Abuja while addressing senior staff of the EFCC on 24 October 2024. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The gesture came as an acknowledgement of corrupt officials in the agency, confirming public perceptions of involvement of many operatives in corrupt activities. Meanwhile, the EFCC, Nigerias leading anti-corruption agency, has faced criticism on different occasions over concealment of vital details in cases when the public expected full disclosure. The latest case was when the commission announced the recovery of a vast estate in Abuja measuring 150,500 square metres with 753 units of duplexes and other apartments but withheld the names. Many Nigerians criticised the commission for concealing the identity of the owners. EFCC defended its official stance to withhold the details of the ownership, although leaked court filings with which it secured the forfeiture order for the assets linked the vast estate to former Central Bank of Nigeria governor Godwin Emefiele, who is facing corruption charges in separate courts. Read EFCCs full statement here. EFCC Dismisses 27 Officers for Fraudulent Activities, Misconduct In its quest to enforce integrity and rid its fold of fraudulent elements, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, dismissed twenty seven (27) officers from its workforce in 2024. The officers were dismissed for various offences bordering on fraudulent activities and misconduct. Their dismissal, FOLLOWING THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE STAFF Disciplinary Committee of the EFCC, was ratified by the Executive Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede. Olukoyede reiterated the commitment of the Commission to zero tolerance for corruption, warning that no officer is immune to disciplinary measures. Every modicum of allegation against any staff of the Commission would always be investigated, including a trending $400,000 claim of a yet-to-be-identified supposed staff of the EFCC against a Sectional Head. The core values of the Commission are sacrosanct and would always be held in optimal regard at all times. The Commission also wishes to alert the public of the sinister activities of impersonators and blackmailers using the name of its Executive Chairman to extort money from high-profile suspects being investigated by the EFCC. Two members of an alleged syndicate, Ojobo Joshua and Aliyu Hashim were recently arraigned before Justice Jude Onwuebuzie of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, High Court, Abuja for allegedly contacting a former Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Mr. Mohammed Bello-Kaka and demanding $1million from him for Olukoyede to give him soft landing on a non-existing investigation. Such characters are still on the loose seeking victims. Olukoyede remains a man of integrity that cannot be swayed by monetary influences. The public is enjoined to always report such disreputable elements to the Commission. Additionally, the EFCC is aware of moves being hatched in some quarters to blackmail officers of the Commission through unwholesome means. Suspects being investigated for some economic and financial crimes who have failed to compromise their investigators would always clutch at any straw. Such blackmailers should not be accorded any form of attention. Dele Oyewale Head, Media & Publicity January 6, 2025 Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print In a generous move, Afe Babalola, the Chancellor of the Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), has approved a new minimum wage of N77,000 for the institutions staff. The Vice Chancellor of ABUAD, Smaranda Olarinde, a professor, disclosed this on Monday in her 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 ABUAD Staff Assessment and Performance Evaluation Review (SAPER) Report, which she presented at the 15th anniversary of the commencement of academic activities of the institution held at the university campus. Ms Olarinde also said that 452 staff across various colleges were assessed during the period in review, including 40 professors and 46 readers who were recommended for external assessment. The Vice-Chancellor lauded Mr Babalola, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) for his generosity, saying that the founder ensured payment of the annual leave bonus for 2024 and made available the annual Christmas gift to all staff members. In November 2024, after the Federal Government announced a minimum wage of N70,000.00, the founder made the decision to exceed this by adding 10%, raising the minimum wage of ABUAD staff to N77,000.00 as against the N70,000.00 minimum wage proposed by the Federal Government. To cap it all up, the founder ensured payment of the annual leave bonus for 2024 and made available the annual Christmas gift to all staff members. This generous decision, following the earlier salary adjustment, demonstrates the founders deep commitment to the well-being of every staff member of ABUAD. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later 452 staff across various colleges were assessed: 40 professors (PFQed) and 46 readers (PFQed) were recommended for external assessment. On how staff were assessed, she explained that the Assessment and Performance Evaluation Review (SAPER) process is a structured system aimed at evaluating staff contributions, recognizing strengths, identifying areas for improvement, and fostering career growth by providing feedback and guidance, identifying training needs, and creating opportunities for advancement. Established under the Founder/Chancellors leadership, it supports promotions, salary increments, and staff motivation to enhance productivity despite economic challenges. To streamline the process, assessment forms were redesigned using Google Docs for easier accessibility and submission. Completed forms were reviewed by department/unit heads and forwarded to the A&P board for consideration of which recommendation to the ABUAD A&P Committee led by the Vice-Chancellor. Final recommendations for promotions, increments, and bonuses were approved by the founder/chancellor, she said. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of the federal government will start appearing before members of the National Assembly on Tuesday to defend their budgetary allocations for the 2025 fiscal year. Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Adeola Olamilekan, disclosed this on Monday during a meeting with committee chairmen and principal officers of the Senate. Mr Olamilekan, the Ogun West Senatorial District senator, also said all committees are expected to submit a report of the defence exercise to the appropriation committee for ratification between 15 and 18 January. The tentative timetable that has been drawn for consideration of the budget at committee level is that budget defence sessions begin from tomorrow (Tuesday), while reports from various committees are expected to be submitted from 15th to 18th of this month, he said. On 18 December, 2024, President Bola Tinubu presented the budget of N49.7 trillion for 2025 fiscal year to a joint session of the National Assembly. The budget, christened Budget of Restoration: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity. was subsequently read on the floor of the Senate for the first time on the same day. The 2025 appropriation has passed a second reading in both chambers before adjourning plenaries for the Christmas and New Year holidays. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The lawmakers are expected to resume plenary on 14 January. During the meeting with committee chairmen, Mr Olamilekan hinted that the budget may be passed in the Senate on 31 January, per its tentative timetable. Afterwards, collation and tidying up of the various reports will be done by the appropriation committee with the hope of laying the final report on the budget to the Senate on the 31st of this month. However, the 31st of January fixed for laying the budget is tentative as it is just given to guide our work, the senator said. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, January 6. Thick fog has disrupted operations at Nukus, Urgench, and Fergana airports in Uzbekistan, Trend reports. According to Uzbekistan Airports, due to poor visibility, temporary restrictions have been imposed on aircraft arrivals and departures at the affected airports. Uzbekistan Airways flight HY-9638, traveling from St. Petersburg to Urgench, made an emergency landing at 06:04 (GMT+5) at a backup airfield in Bukhara. Flights HY-51/52 on the TashkentUrgench/UrgenchTashkent route have been delayed. Preliminary information suggests the flight from Tashkent to Urgench will depart at 13:00 (GMT+5). Flight HY-11, operating from Tashkent to Nukus, has also been delayed until 12:30 (GMT+5) due to dense fog in the destination city. Furthermore, Silk Avias flight US-401, from Tashkent to Fergana, has been tentatively rescheduled to 11:40 (GMT+5). The airport is operating normally for departures. At a time when Nigerians are groaning over the huge cost of petroleum products, especially PMS, it is a huge relief to observe that the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries have come back to life, with the possibility of driving competition that will ultimately bring down the prices of petroleum products across the country. Recently, the media was awashed with news of the rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries and the subsequent production of petroleum product from the Port Harcourt refinery. Following my personal confirmation of the veracity of the stories, I am compelled to publicly commend President Bola Tinubu for rehabilitating the refineries. At a time when Nigerians are groaning over the huge cost of petroleum products, especially PMS, it is a huge relief to observe that the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries have come back to life, with the possibility of driving competition that will ultimately bring down the prices of petroleum products across the country. Having taken steps to revamp the refineries, the President must go further by blocking all illegal exploitation of the nations oil resources by non-state actors. It is now obvious that the Nigerian Navy is overstretched and can no longer protect our oil facilities alone. In this light, I call on the President to direct the army to maintain increased presence across our oil facilities and protect them from oil theft. While commending Mr. President for the positive steps taken on the refineries, I urge him to take urgent steps to ensure that the life of the average Nigerian is improved, in line with his campaign promises. Deji Adeyanju, a social critic and activist, wrote from Abuja. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Over the last decade, the tariffs that you pay for telecom services have not changed, yet over that time, operating expenses in the sector have increased by more than 300 per cent. That equation is simply unsustainable for any industry, but even more so for a capital-intensive sector like telecoms. If you look closely at the financials of a telecoms company, you will see that in order to maintain standards, delivery service quality and invest in new technology operators have to make continued and significant capital investments. Nigerias telecoms industry, and the digital economy that has developed around it, are at a fundamental inflection point. The decisions that we make now will determine whether the growth and development of our digital economy continues on a sustainable trajectory, or whether the connectivity infrastructure that drives it begins to degrade. The scope, breadth and sophistication of Nigerias telecoms industry today is a shining example of what can happen when a country combines the right policy and regulatory environment, with the right market opportunity. Since the first call was made in 2001, Nigerias telecoms sector has evolved into one of the largest and most sophisticated in the world, meeting the growing needs of Nigerian consumers and employing millions of people. Today, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) statistics show that there are now more than 157 million active connections, and that number is growing every month. As the telecoms industry has expanded connectivity, it has enabled the emergence and rapid growth of the digital economy. In 2024, ICT contributed nearly 20 per cent to Nigerias GDP, more than twice the contribution of oil and gas, and it continues to grow. As Nigeria transitions to the non-oil based economy that will enable more inclusive growth, connectivity is becoming more and more important. It is the foundation on which our future economy will be built. Whether it is your digital banking solution, social media and marketing, your mobile-based agricultural extension services, your e-government portal or the telemedicine and edtech solutions that are enabling broader access to healthcare and education, the impact of improved connectivity is universal. That is why we must act now to ensure that we have a sustainable platform for the connectivity needs of the future. The NCC and the Federal Government are quite rightly-focused on ensuring Nigerians have the service levels that they deserve, but they also recognise that the industry needs the help and support of the government. The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Ministry of Digital Economy and Communications under the able minister, Dr Bosun Tijani, should be commended for their recognition of the need to support the industry, and the actions that they have taken to do so. For instance, legislation like the critical national infrastructure bill is vital to the maintenance of service quality levels, and systemic debt issues in the sector both of which have now been comprehensively addressed. These all help establish the foundations for the future. It is also commendable, the other generic, giant strides that the minister and the government, as a collective, are taking to promote the nations digital economy. For instance, the Three Million Technical Talents (3MTT) programme, which is a critical part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, is aimed at building Nigerias technical talent backbone to power our digital economy and position Nigeria as a net talent exporter. Put this side-by-side with the same governments planned 90,000-kilometre terrestrial fibre roll-out, it becomes glaring that we now have more forward-looking policy formulators at the helm of affairs. When completed, the fibre optics network will move the nations capacity from 35,000 to 125,000, making it one of the longest in Africa. It is also important to assess the cost of Nigerias telecoms services compared to our contemporaries in Africa. Recent studies have shown that the average cost of 1GB of data in Nigeria is $0.38. That compares to $0.59 in Kenya, $0.68 in Ethiopia, $1.77 in South Africa and $6 in the USA. Today, Nigeria has some of the cheapest data prices for its citizens anywhere in the world. Ensuring service quality and reliability is at the heart of our mission as telecom operators, but achieving this requires a delicate balance between the cost of a product, and the investment that is made to maintain or enhance it. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Over the last decade, the tariffs that you pay for telecom services have not changed, yet over that time, operating expenses in the sector have increased by more than 300 per cent. That equation is simply unsustainable for any industry, but even more so for a capital-intensive sector like telecoms. If you look closely at the financials of a telecoms company, you will see that in order to maintain standards, delivery service quality and invest in new technology operators have to make continued and significant capital investments. The simple reality for our industry is that investment drives growth. If costs exceed revenue generation, then it becomes questionable whether the funds that need to be reinvested into the network every year will continue to be available. When that happens, growth stops and the service quality that our customers rely on suffers. The consequences of this would go far beyond the telecoms industry. The digital services that we have all become reliant on could begin to suffer. Millions of jobs would be lost and Nigerias economic development would be set back by decades. This is not just a threat to our company and our industry; it is a threat to the nation, and every one of its citizens. At the same time, the industry and the government recognise that Nigerian consumers have faced a range of significant cost of living challenges over recent years, and the transition to market pricing in the fuel and electricity sectors have driven up prices across the board. We know that we have to find the right balance between the increases that the industry wants, and the prices that Nigerians can afford to pay. It is also important to assess the cost of Nigerias telecoms services compared to our contemporaries in Africa. Recent studies have shown that the average cost of 1GB of data in Nigeria is $0.38. That compares to $0.59 in Kenya, $0.68 in Ethiopia, $1.77 in South Africa and $6 in the USA. Today, Nigeria has some of the cheapest data prices for its citizens anywhere in the world. At MTN Nigeria we have demonstrated our long-term commitment to Nigeria many times. We believed when no one else did. We continue to believe, and we are committed to partnering with Nigeria and Nigerians to continue to invest based on that belief. The discussions between the industry and government have been deliberate and focused on finding the right balance, while aligning with pricing in other markets. It is why the proposed tariff increases will surely be capped, and definitely much lower than the price increases that have been imposed in other sectors like power/energy and oil, while ensuring that the prices remain below our contemporaries. So not only will increases be capped well below the levels the industry has requested, but they are linked to a requirement to invest in network upgrades and service improvements, which will be overseen by the NCC to ensure compliance. This balance of tariff increases, alongside investment commitments, means that not only will the telecoms industry have the confidence to invest, and a clear pathway back to sustainability, but the higher prices will lead to better networks, more relevant services, and better customer experience that enables growth. Nigerias digital economy has shown its potential in the last decade, but the journey we are on to develop and grow it is still in its very early stages. The decision that the government has taken to ensure a sustainable tariff regime is brave, necessary and must be commended. It will ensure that our Digital Economy can remain on its growth path. At MTN Nigeria we have demonstrated our long-term commitment to Nigeria many times. We believed when no one else did. We continue to believe, and we are committed to partnering with Nigeria and Nigerians to continue to invest based on that belief. Karl Toriola is the CEO of MTN Nigeria. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The death toll from an explosion that occurred at a school in Abuja has increased to two. PREMIUM TIMES reported the explosion at the Tsangayar Sani Uthman Islamic School in the Bwari Area Council of Abuja on Monday afternoon. A security source had confirmed the death of one person, a student, in the explosion. However, a police first information report obtained by PREMIUM TIMES showed that Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) killed two people and injured two others. The information about the explosion got to a Divisional Police Officer who mobilised police operatives, including officials from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), to the scene. A gory picture of the incident was also shared with our reporter. Three people came with the IEDs In the report, the police said the three people from Katsina had visited the owner of the Islamiya, Adamu Ashimu. According to them, the visitors came with the explosives. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Two of them died in the explosion, the police stated, adding the other person was critically injured and hospitalised. Mr Ashimu, the owner of the Islamic school, has been arrested, the police said, noting that he will be interrogated immediately and the outcome would be forwarded. No group has claimed responsibility for the explosion in the Nigerian capital. However, different armed groups including some linked to the Islamic State operate in northern Nigeria. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The police in Rivers State have said 18 people were severely injured in a gas explosion which occurred in the Oroazi community in Port Harcourt. The incident occurred Sunday evening at a gas refilling shop, causing significant damage to nearby buildings. The latest explosion follows a series of gas and Improvised Explosive Device (IED) incidents recorded in the state since 2024. Grace Iringe-Koko, the police spokesperson in Rivers, confirmed the incident during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Monday. Yes, I can confirm that the explosion was caused by a welder repairing a refrigerator. The technician was using a gas cylinder to weld while simultaneously trying to refill gas on the refrigerator, which led to the explosion. , No fewer than 18 persons, including the technician, sustained injuries, but fortunately, no lives were lost, she added. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Mrs Iringe-Koko, a superintendent of police, stated that those injured suffered varying degrees of burns and were promptly evacuated to the hospital, where they are receiving treatment. She also confirmed that the police had launched a full investigation into the incident and would share their findings with the public. A witness, identified as Tamuno, described the incident as devastating. He said the victims included a pregnant woman, four children, and a couple. The explosion triggered a chain reaction with other gas cylinders in the shop also exploding. Most of the victims were residents and passers-by who unfortunately happened to be near the shop at the time, he said. He added that many of the victims were rushed to the Rivers State Teaching Hospital in Port Harcourt and expressed hope for their survival. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has approved the immediate suspension of the Village Head of Esuk Utan, Okon Archibong, along with his council members. This was disclosed in a statement from the governors spokesperson, Nsa Gil, on Monday in Calabar. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the suspension came on the heels of allegations of misuse of office by the traditional ruler and his council which gave rise to several petitions. The governor mandated the Calabar Municipal Traditional Rulers Council to investigate the allegations against the village head and his council, and make recommendations. READ ALSO: Police confirm 18 injured in Port Harcourt gas explosion Report on findings and recommendations should be sent to the office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Chieftaincy Affairs within one week. The Obutong Clan Council is mandated to set up a five-man committee to manage the affairs of Esuk Utan Village pending the outcome of the investigation, the statement highlighted. Mr Otu called on residents or people operating businesses in Esuk Utan to go about their normal activities and cease all dealings with the suspended village head and his council. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Some gunmen have killed three siblings in Anambra State, Nigerias South-east. The incident occurred on Saturday night in Nise, a community in Awka South Local Government Area of the state, PREMIUM TIMES gathered. The hoodlums were said to have scaled the fence of a building and killed the victims who were inside their apartment. Residents said the attackers dumped the bodies of the victims inside the boot of a vehicle parked within the compound. The slain children were between two and six years old. Residents said their father is a native doctor. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later However, sources within the area said the incident might be connected to a disagreement between the victims father and some persons over a business deal. The police spokesperson in Anambra State, Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the killing to PREMIUM TIMES on Monday. Mr Ikenga, a superintendent of police, said the attack occurred on Saturday and was reported to the Police Command in the state on Sunday. We got a report from the Divisional Police Officer of the area about the killing of three siblings who were killed by some assailants. The assailants entered the compound, killed the victims and dumped their corpses inside a parked Mercedes Benz in the compound, he said. The spokesperson said police operatives had visited the scene of the incident and evacuated the corpses. We have taken over the scene and we have also interacted with those around the scene and the father of the deceased and the information they have provided is helping us to launch a manhunt on the suspects, he stated. Investigation ongoing Some residents claimed that the victims father often locked the children inside their apartment whenever he went for business alongside his wife, the mother and only fed them when he returned. READ ALSO: Police confirm 18 injured in Port Harcourt gas explosion Speaking on the issue, Mr Ikenga said the police authorities had launched an investigation to determine what transpired. We are trying to unravel the circumstances behind the killing, whether it was due to the negligence of their father or the motive of the suspects and as soon as we conclude our investigation, the report will be made public, he said. Meanwhile, the father of the victim has been interviewed and we are working with the necessary information provided. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Monday, granted bail to Olamide Thomas, the nurse and activist remanded on charges of cyberbullying for her social media comments about President Bola Tinubu, his son Seyi Tinubu, and two top police officers children. The judge, Emeka Nwite, set bail at N10 million, attaching other conditions to her release. Initially, on 20 December 2024, the judge rejected an oral bail request made by Ms Thomas lawyers following her arraignment. The judge insisted that only a formal written application for bail would be considered. In response, Ms Thomas defence team submitted a written bail application, which was heard in court on Monday. Seprebofa Oyeghe and J.A. Ekwe led Ms Thomas legal team. But the legal representatives of the police prosecution were absent during the proceedings. In his ruling, Mr Nwite ruled that there is no concrete evidence that the defendant will jump bail if granted. The judge went on to grant her bail in the sum of N10 million with one surety, who must be an Abuja resident with a verifiable address. The surety must also present a three-year tax clearance certificate, the judge ruled. The judge also ordered that the defendant and his surety must submit two recent passport photographs each. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later He then adjourned until 18 February for commencement of trial. Arrest and prosecution The police arrested Ms Thomas in Somolu, Lagos State on Friday, 13 December 2024 over allegations of cursing and wishing death upon Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Tinubu, as well as the children of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and those of Police Force spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi. She live-streamed the video on her Facebook page on 20 October, shortly after she was reportedly brutalised by police officers during the #EndSARS memorial procession at the Lekki Tollgate. A day after her arrest, the police flew her to Abuja for further interrogation by the National Cyber-Crime Centre (NCCC) of the Nigerian police and subsequent prosecution. The police subsequently charged her with three counts of cyberbullying. The police alleged in one of the counts that Ms Thomas, during her video transmission, made remarks in Yoruba that included placing curses on Seyi Tinubu, wishing him death, and predicting calamity for the Tinubu family within the year. The charge stated that these comments were made with intent to bully, threaten, and harass the person of Mr Seyi Tinubu, adding that such communication places the said Mr Seyi Tinubu in fear of death, violence, or bodily harm. The second count similarly accused her of bullying, threatening, and harassing Mr Egbetokun in the same video transmission, causing him to fear death, violence, or bodily harm. In the third count, the police alleged that she made curses directed at Mr Adejobi, the police spokesperson, claiming his children would die before his eyes and that he would bury all his children in a single day. The charge stated that these comments were also made with intent to bully, threaten, and harass the person of Muyiwa Adejobi, adding that such communication places him in fear of the death of his loved ones. The prosecution said each of the three counts was contrary to and punishable under section 24 (2) (a) Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc, Amendment) Act, 2024. Ms Thomas pleaded not guilty to all three counts during her arraignment on 20 December. #EndSARS memorial On 20 October, police reportedly arrested about 23 activists who had gathered at the Lekki Toll Gate to commemorate the fourth anniversary of the #EndSARS protest. Officers initially dispersed the crowd using teargas before detaining the activists and transporting them in a Black Maria to Panti Police Station in Yaba, where they were held. The date marks the tragic events of 20 October 2020, when Nigerian security forces, particularly the Army, opened fire on peaceful protesters at the tollgate, which had become the epicentre of the dayslong #EndSARS movement against police brutality. Many were injured or killed during the incident. Since then, 20 October has been observed by Nigerians to honour the victims and reflect on the struggle against police highhandedness and systemic governance issues. However, the police have consistently blocked #EndSARS memorial gatherings at the site each year. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 6. Dialogue at the level of deputy foreign ministers of Iran and three European countries (UK, France, and Germany) will continue on January 13-14 in Geneva, said Esmail Baghaei, spokesperson for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs at a press conference in Tehran on January 6, Trend reports. According to him, several regional issues, bilateral issues, Iran's nuclear program, and other issues of interest to the sides will be discussed in this dialogue. Baghaei noted that this dialogue will be organized as a sequel to the dialogue held in November. Meanwhile, the deputy foreign ministers of Iran and three European countries ( UK, France, and Germany) held a meeting in Geneva on November 29. To note, 39 members of the Iranian parliament petitioned Iran's Supreme National Security Council in October to revise the country's defense doctrine regarding the development of atomic weapons. Meanwhile, in January 2016, Iran and the P5+1 group (the US, Russia, China, the UK, France, and Germany) implemented the Comprehensive Joint Plan of Action concerning Irans nuclear program. In May 2018, the US announced its withdrawal from the deal and reimposed sanctions on Iran. By the end of 2020, the Iranian parliament decided to pursue a strategic plan in the nuclear sector to counter the sanctions, leading to a suspension of additional steps and the Additional Protocol as per the nuclear agreement. Consequently, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) faced a reduction in monitoring capabilities by 20-30 percent. Iran has officially affirmed that its strategy is not to pursue the development of an atomic bomb and that it does not support the production of weapons of mass destruction. SANTA BARBARA, Calif., Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Aptitude Medical Systems, Inc. (Aptitude) has secured funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to accelerate the development and release of its new Point of Care (POC) and Over-The-Counter (OTC) Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis sexually transmitted infection (STI) test on the Metrix molecular diagnostics platform. The foundation's grant support of over $10 million will fund clinical validation studies in the US and Africa and further optimization of manufacturing processes to ensure affordable access in low- and middle-income countries. The Metrix STI panel is being developed to enable anyone to test for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Trichomoniasis all at once, on the spot, in the clinic, or in the home, to enable rapid and appropriate treatment. Metrix is a next-generation molecular diagnostics platform designed to dramatically increase the accessibility of high-quality molecular testing at the point of care and in the home. FDA has previously authorized the Metrix COVID-19 test and the Metrix COVID/Flu multiplex test is currently under review. This grant will enable Aptitude to add detection capabilities for three major sexually transmitted infections in a single test - Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV). "Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis can be cured if they are properly diagnosed. Unfortunately, the existing molecular tests are just too complex and too costly to reach the vast majority of the 350 million people annually infected," said Scott Ferguson, PhD, CEO of Aptitude. "We built Metrix to transform the accessibility of molecular diagnostics, and with the foundation's funding support we are poised to achieve a major impact globally." "Our commitment is to make this technology accessible to those who need it most," added Kevin Nichols, PhD, VP of Strategic Initiatives at Aptitude. "By focusing on both clinical excellence and manufacturing efficiency, we're building a sustainable path to provide affordable testing in all markets." Aptitude is dedicated to democratizing diagnostics through innovative, accessible testing solutions. The company's Metrix platform enables accurate, user-friendly testing for multiple conditions in both clinical and at-home settings. To learn more, visit www.aptitudemedical.com , and follow Aptitude on LinkedIn. SOURCE Aptitude Medical Systems, Inc. SHANGHAI, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Asieris Pharmaceuticals (Stock Code: 688176.SH), a leading global biopharmaceutical company dedicated to advancing innovative therapies for genitourinary tumors and women's health with significant unmet medical needs, announced the signing of an investigational drug supply agreement under the Expanded Access Investigational New Drug (IND) Program with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States for the independently developed APL-1202 (nitroxoline), subject to evaluation by CDC experts, to be used for treating Free-living Amoebae (FLA) infections. Infections caused by free-living amebae (FLA), such as Acanthamoeba species (spp.), Balamuthia mandrillaris, and Naegleria fowleri, are rare. However, FLA infections are often fatal (> 90%), especially when they cause amoebic meningoencephalitis. Treatment options are limited for FLA infections, and currently, there is no product approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) specifically for the treatment of FLA infections in the United States (U.S.). An expanded-access IND application was submitted by the CDC to FDA to provide APL-1202 for treatment of laboratory-confirmed or suspected non-keratitis infections caused by FLA including Acanthamoeba spp., B. mandrillaris, and N. fowleri. Nitroxoline has not been approved by the FDA, and its use is therefore considered investigational in the United States. FLA patients will receive treatment with APL-1202 under specific conditions. Following the agreement, Asieris promptly arranged drug transportation to ensure clinical drug supply for FLA patients. "We are grateful for this opportunity to collaborate with the CDC, and this agreement enables new treatment options for FLA patients in the U.S.," stated Ms. Joanna Zhang, Chief Medical Officer of Asieris Pharmaceuticals. "We look forward to collaborating closely with the CDC in the future, sharing clinical experiences of treating FLA infections with APL-1202 to meet the unmet needs of patients. We will continue to uphold our company's mission of delivering innovative treatments to patients." Since 2021, FDA has granted single-patient emergency-IND requests (e-IND) for APL-1202 as an investigational drug for treatment of Balamuthia mandrillaris and Acanthamoeba infections. Two patients who received this treatment in the U.S. have fully recovered from their infections. On June 24, 2024, a separate Investigational New Drug (IND) application for APL-1202 for the treatment of FLA was approved by China's National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) to ensure clinical drug supply for domestic patients in China. About Asieris Asieris Pharmaceuticals(688176.SH), founded in March 2010, is a global biopharma company specializing in discovering, developing and commercializing innovative drugs for the treatment of genitourinary tumors and other related diseases. We strive to improve human health to preserve patient's dignity. We aim to become a global pharma leader that integrates R&D, manufacturing and commercialization in our areas of focus, as we provide best-in-class integrated diagnosis and treatment solutions for patients in China and worldwide. The company has been developing its proprietary R&D platform and core technologies, exploring new mechanisms of action, and efficiently screening and evaluating drug candidates. With a well-established in-house R&D system and expertise in global drug development, Asieris is committed to launching first-in-class drugs and other innovative products to address huge unmet needs in its areas of focus. Asieris is also enhancing its pipeline for genitourinary diseases via proprietary R&D and strategic partnerships, while closely following cutting-edge technologies and therapeutics. The company strives to discover and identify unmet clinical needs, and adopts a forward-looking approach in product planning and life-cycle management. We aim to establish an outstanding portfolio that covers diagnosis and treatment in a bid to benefit more patients in China and globally. SOURCE Asieris OCEANSIDE, Calif., Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Brixton is proud to announce the appointment of two dedicated industry veterans, Nadene Wisely as Senior Vice President of Merchandising, Design, and Development, and Sean Fleuriau as Sr. Director of Specialty Sales for North America. Nadene Wisely Appointed as SVP of Design, Merchandising, and Development Sean Fleuriau Appointed as Sr. Director of Specialty Sales, North America CEO, Seth Ellison shares, I'm once again humbled by the talent interested in joining our Brixton leadership team. Both leaders have proven success with industry leading brands. They are experienced, authentic, customer and consumer obsessed. Nadene is an all-around 360-degree merchant and Sean brings years of specialty Wholesale relationships within the action sports, outdoor and boutique channels. They'll both have an instant impact improving our products, go to market and customer relationships. Nadene Wisely Appointed as SVP of Design, Merchandising, and Development With a distinguished career in the apparel industry, including roles at Boardriders and Quiksilver, Nadene Wisely brings a wealth of expertise and creative vision to her new position. In her role as Senior Vice President of Design, Merchandising, and Development, Nadene will lead Brixton's product strategies, ensuring that offerings resonate with the brand's diverse and growing customer base. Known for her innovative approach and deep understanding of market trends, Nadene's leadership will play a pivotal role in shaping Brixton's product direction and strengthening its position as a leader in the lifestyle and apparel space. Nadene Wisely shares, I've been a longtime admirer of the Brixton brand as it resonates and embodies the lifestyle I embrace of exploration and adventure through music, art and culture. The brand positions its products as the expression of this way of life, one that values individuality and artistry. I respect Brixton's authentic commitment to creating quality, well-crafted products which are grounded in distinct timeless aesthetics yet push creative freedoms to provide a unique perspective to the surf/skate, garage/builder's lifestyle apparel space. Sean Fleuriau Appointed as Sr. Director of Specialty Sales, North America Brixton is equally excited to welcome Sean Fleuriau as Sr. Director of Specialty Sales for North America. Sean has an impressive track record of managing teams and successfully growing brands across women's, men's, and accessories categories. His expertise and strategic mindset make him the perfect fit for this new role. Sean has identified a significant shift in the branded wholesale space and believes Brixton is uniquely positioned to seize new opportunities and increase market share. Leveraging his early career experience in product development, Sean excels in translating market needs into actionable strategies for cross-functional teams, ensuring seamless execution and measurable growth. SVP of Sales Brian White shares, "I have long admired Sean as a formidable competitor and industry expert. He has strong connections with retailers and a history of building winning rep teams. Sean's calm and strategic approach to business will be invaluable as we continue to grow our presence in the North American wholesale market." Sean Fleuriau shares, Brixton has an all-star team and an incredible brand legacy. This is a very dynamic group with years of experience turning good brands into great ones. Brixton stands out as a unique brand offering commercial value well beyond surf and skate. I'm excited to contribute to the company's growth and be a part of its future. About Brixton Founded in 2004, Brixton is a high-growth, omni-channel lifestyle brand headquartered in Oceanside, CA. The company blends modern classic styling with authentic Southern California influences from surf, skate, music, and design. Brixton distributes its products across 1,300 storefronts, seven owned retail stores, and a growing eCommerce platform. With a loyal global customer base across the United States, Canada, Europe, Japan and Australia. For more information, visit brixton.com. Media Contact: [email protected] SOURCE Brixton HOUSTON, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Cemex is proud to announce its participation in multiple government-sponsored sustainability initiatives, securing funding from state and federal programs to deploy several lower-emission vehicles across its U.S. footprint. This remarkable investment is a crucial step in the company's ongoing efforts to decarbonize its operations. Through the Texas Emissions Reduction Plan (TERP), Cemex was awarded approximately $13 million to obtain four lower-emission locomotives and two haul trucks for its cement and aggregate sites in New Braunfels and Katy, Texas. The TERP program provides financial incentives to eligible individuals, businesses, or local governments to reduce emissions from polluting vehicles and equipment. Three of the four new locomotives and both haul trucks entered service in late 2023 and mid-2024 in New Braunfels, respectively. Looking ahead, Cemex will continue its commitment to protecting air quality by deploying additional equipment in 2025. A $2 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) Program will allow for two lower-emission locomotives to enter Cemex's service in Jacksonville and Miami in summer 2025. "Through these state and federal programs, significant strides toward advancing responsible business practices are more attainable," said Cemex U.S. President Jaime Muguiro. "Our new lower-emission vehicles play a key role in the development of building materials for roads, schools, hospitals, and more, while also pivotal to our CO2 reduction roadmap." Upon placing these emissions-reducing vehicles into service, Cemex decommissions the conventional vehicles they replaced, meeting a core requirement of the programs and reinforcing Cemex's commitment to a more sustainable future. This initiative continues Cemex's efforts at other locations, particularly in Victorville, California, where multiple lower-emission locomotives were added to the fleet. In 2022, nearly 40 low-emission natural gas trucks were introduced to the Southern California fleet, replacing an equal number of older, diesel-powered vehicles. Additionally, in 2023, another lower-emission locomotive was put into service, supported by a $2.5 million grant from the EPA's Targeted Airshed Grants (TAG) Program. Decarbonizing its operations is a fundamental aspect of Cemex's Future in Action program, which focuses on achieving sustainable excellence through climate action, circularity, and natural resource management with the primary objective of becoming a net-zero CO2 company by 2050. About Cemex U.S. Cemex is a global building materials company that provides high-quality products and reliable services with a rich history of improving the wellbeing of those it serves through innovative building solutions, efficiency advancements and sustainability efforts. Its U.S. network includes 8 cement plants, close to 50 strategically located cement terminals, nearly 50 aggregate quarries and more than 280 ready-mix concrete plants. Cemex U.S. has been repeatedly recognized for its efforts in sustainability and energy management, including earning U.S. EPA ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year consecutively since 2019. SOURCE Cemex USA - China has the highest number of cases and deaths from gastric cancer of any country worldwide1 - - Zolbetuximab is the first and only therapy approved in China to target claudin 18.2, a biomarker expressed by 35% of Chinese patients with advanced gastric and gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancer2 - - Treatment with the claudin 18.2-targeted monoclonal antibody shown to significantly extend both progression-free survival and overall survival in the Phase 3 GLOW and SPOTLIGHT trials3,4 - TOKYO, Jan. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Astellas Pharma Inc. (TSE:4503, President and CEO: Naoki Okamura, "Astellas") today announced that China's National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) has approved VYLOY (zolbetuximab), in combination with fluoropyrimidine- and platinum-containing chemotherapy, for the first-line treatment of patients with locally advanced unresectable or metastatic human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative gastric or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma whose tumors are claudin (CLDN) 18.2 positive. Zolbetuximab is the first NMPA-approved monoclonal antibody to target gastric tumor cells that express the biomarker CLDN18.2, offering a highly targeted approach to cancer treatment. Gastric cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality in China, with more than 260,000 deaths reported from the disease in 2022.5 As early symptoms are often hard to detect, approximately 60% of Chinese patients are diagnosed at the advanced stage of the disease6 where treatment options are limited and outcomes are often poor. The average five-year survival rate for patients with advanced gastric cancer in China is 9.1%, driving the urgent need for novel therapeutic options that can slow disease progression and extend lives.7 Professor Xu Ruihua, Lead Primary Investigator of the Phase 3 GLOW Study, Director of the Cancer Prevention and Treatment Center of Sun Yat-sen University, President of the Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology (CSCO): "Approximately 30% of patients enrolled in the global Phase 3 GLOW trial were from mainland China. The results of this study demonstrated that the combination of zolbetuximab and chemotherapy provided significant survival benefits to patients with CLDN18.2-positive, HER2-negative advanced gastric and gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancers. The analysis of the China subgroup data showed that Chinese gastric cancer patients benefited substantially in terms of both survival and quality of life. We are excited that the NMPA has approved zolbetuximab, which will provide a valuable and effective first-line treatment option for patients with advanced gastric cancer in China." Professor Xu Jianming, Lead Primary Investigator of the Phase 3 SPOTLIGHT Study in China, Fifth Medical Center of the Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital: "We are extremely encouraged that the NMPA has approved zolbetuximab in China. The SPOTLIGHT study explored the efficacy and safety of zolbetuximab combined with chemotherapy as a first-line treatment for patients with CLDN18.2-positive, HER2-negative advanced gastric and gastroesophageal junction cancer. The results showed statistically significant differences in key endpoints such as progression-free survival and overall survival. The survival and safety benefits seen in the China subgroup were consistent with the global trial population, and the results are expected to have far-reaching implications for meeting the clinical needs of Chinese patients with advanced gastric cancer. The trial provides valuable insights to guide the first-line treatment of advanced gastric cancer in China." Moitreyee Chatterjee-Kishore, Ph.D., M.B.A., Senior Vice President and Head of Immuno-Oncology Development, Astellas: "Approximately 35% of Chinese patients with advanced and metastatic gastric and GEJ cancers have tumors that positively express CLDN18.2. By specifically targeting this biomarker with zolbetuximab we are able to stimulate selective cell death, reducing the overall number of CLDN18.2-positive cells in a tumor. The NMPA approval of zolbetuximab offers a new precision medicine for first-line use in China, supporting our ongoing ambition to drive progress and innovation in cancer care." The NMPA's approval of zolbetuximab is supported by data from the global Phase 3 GLOW and SPOTLIGHT clinical trials which included 145 and 36 patients from mainland China, respectively.3,4 The GLOW trial evaluated zolbetuximab plus CAPOX (a combination chemotherapy regimen that includes capecitabine and oxaliplatin) compared to placebo plus CAPOX.4 The SPOTLIGHT trial evaluated zolbetuximab plus mFOLFOX6 (a combination regimen that includes oxaliplatin, leucovorin and fluorouracil) compared to placebo plus mFOLFOX6.3 Treatment with zolbetuximab was shown to provide statistically significant improvements in progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) compared to other standard of care chemotherapies in eligible patients with gastric and GEJ cancers.3,4 In the GLOW trial, a median PFS of 8.21 months was achieved with zolbetuximab plus CAPOX as first-line treatment versus 6.80 months with placebo plus CAPOX. The median OS was 14.39 months versus 12.16 months in the respective treatment groups.4 Similar efficacy results were seen in the SPOTLIGHT trial, where the median PFS was 10.61 months versus 8.67 months, and the median OS was 18.23 months versus 15.54 months, with zolbetuximab plus mFOLFOX6, compared to placebo plus mFOLFOX6.3 In both the GLOW and SPOTLIGHT trials, the incidence of serious treatment emergent adverse events (TEAEs) was similar in the zolbetuximab treatment groups compared to the controls. The most common all-grade TEAEs reported in the zolbetuximab treatment groups were nausea, vomiting and decreased appetite.3,4 Astellas has already reflected the impact from the NMPA approval of zolbetuximab in its financial forecast for the current fiscal year ending March 31, 2025. About Locally Advanced Unresectable Metastatic Gastric and Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer Gastric and gastroesophageal junction (G/GEJ) cancers are known to be histologically similar, are recommended to be managed in the same way in treatment guidelines, and frequently display aligned responses to treatment.8 Across China, more than 358,000 new cases of gastric cancer were diagnosed in 2022.5 Gastric cancer is the third most common cause of cancer-related mortality in China, responsible for more than 260,000 deaths in 2022.5 GEJ adenocarcinomas start in the first two inches (5 cm) where the esophagus joins the stomach.9 Because early-stage cancer symptoms frequently overlap with more common stomach-related conditions, G/GEJ cancers are often diagnosed in the advanced or metastatic stage, or once they have spread from the tumor's origin to other body tissues or organs.10 Early signs and symptoms can include indigestion or heartburn, pain or discomfort in the abdomen, nausea and vomiting, bloating of the stomach after meals, and loss of appetite.10,11 Signs of more advanced G/GEJ cancer can include unexplained weight loss, weakness and fatigue, sensation of food getting stuck in the throat while eating, vomiting blood or having blood in the stool.10,11,12 Risk factors associated with G/GEJ cancer can include older age, male gender, family history, H. pylori infection, smoking, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).13,14 About the GLOW Phase 3 Clinical Trial GLOW is a Phase 3, global, multi-center, double-blind, randomized study, assessing the efficacy and safety of zolbetuximab plus CAPOX (a combination chemotherapy regimen that includes capecitabine and oxaliplatin) compared to placebo plus CAPOX as a first-line treatment in patients with locally advanced unresectable or metastatic HER2-negative gastric or GEJ adenocarcinoma whose tumors were CLDN18.2 positive. The study enrolled 507 patients at 166 study locations in the U.S., Canada, United Kingdom, Europe, South America, and Asia, including Japan. The primary endpoint is PFS in participants treated with the combination of zolbetuximab plus CAPOX compared to those treated with placebo plus CAPOX. Secondary endpoints include OS, ORR, DOR, safety and tolerability, and quality-of-life parameters.4 Data from the GLOW study were initially presented at the March 2023 ASCO Plenary Series with an updated oral presentation at the 2023 ASCO Annual Meeting on June 3, 2023, and were subsequently published in Nature Medicine on July 31, 2023.4 For more information, please visit clinicaltrials.gov under Identifier NCT03653507 . About the SPOTLIGHT Phase 3 Clinical Trial SPOTLIGHT is a Phase 3, global, multi-center, double-blind, randomized study, assessing the efficacy and safety of zolbetuximab plus mFOLFOX6 (a combination chemotherapy regimen that includes oxaliplatin, leucovorin, and fluorouracil) compared to placebo plus mFOLFOX6 as a first-line treatment in patients with locally advanced unresectable or metastatic HER2-negative gastric or GEJ adenocarcinoma whose tumors were CLDN18.2 positive. The study enrolled 565 patients at 215 study locations in the U.S., Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Europe, South America, and Asia. The primary endpoint is progression-free survival (PFS) of participants treated with the combination of zolbetuximab plus mFOLFOX6 compared to those treated with placebo plus mFOLFOX6. Secondary endpoints include overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR), duration of response (DOR), safety and tolerability, and quality-of-life parameters.3 Data from the SPOTLIGHT clinical trial were presented during the 2023 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Gastrointestinal (GI) Cancers Symposium in an oral presentation on January 19, 2023, and were subsequently published in The Lancet on April 14, 2023.3 For more information, please visit clinicaltrials.gov under Identifier NCT03504397 . About Zolbetuximab Zolbetuximab is a first-in-class monoclonal antibody (mAb) specifically designed to target tumor cells that express CLDN18.2, a transmembrane protein. Zolbetuximab is the only CLDN18.2 targeted therapy to be approved in combination with fluoropyrimidine- and platinum-containing chemotherapy for the first-line treatment of patients with locally advanced unresectable or metastatic human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative gastric or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma whose tumors are claudin (CLDN) 18.2 positive. Zolbetuximab has been approved in a number of countries around the world including Japan, the UK, Korea, the US, Canada, Brazil and China, plus has received marketing authorization from the European Commission which is valid in all 27 EU member states as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. Regulatory approvals were based on the positive results of the SPOTLIGHT and GLOW Phase III trials where zolbetuximab demonstrated statistically significant improvements in progression-free survival and overall survival compared to other standard of care chemotherapies in eligible patients with gastric and GEJ cancers.3,4 In both the GLOW and SPOTLIGHT Phase 3 clinical trials, approximately 38% of all patients screened, and 35% of patients screened in China, had tumors that were CLDN18.2 positive, defined as 75% of tumor cells demonstrating moderate to strong membranous CLDN18 immunohistochemical staining, assessed and confirmed using the VENTANA CLDN18 (43-14A) RxDx Assay.3,4 By binding to CLDN18.2, zolbetuximab induces cancer cell death and tumor growth inhibition by activating two distinct immune system pathways antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC).15 This targeted approach that specifically focuses on CLDN18.2, a biomarker shown to be positively expressed in gastric and GEJ cancers, could help to identify patients who are most likely to respond to treatment. Investigational Pipeline in CLDN18.2 An expanded Phase 2 trial of zolbetuximab in metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma is in progress involving 393 patients worldwide. The trial is a randomized, multi-center, open-label study, evaluating the safety and efficacy of investigational zolbetuximab in combination with gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel as a first-line treatment in patients with metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma with CLDN18.2 positive tumors (defined as 75% of tumor cells demonstrating moderate to strong membranous CLDN18 staining based on a validated immunohistochemistry assay). For more information, please visit clinicaltrials.gov under Identifier NCT03816163 . In addition to zolbetuximab, ASP2138 is under development in our Primary Focus Immuno-Oncology area and is currently recruiting patients. ASP2138 is a bispecific monoclonal antibody that binds to CD3 and CLDN18.2, and it is currently in a Phase 1/1b study in participants with metastatic or locally advanced unresectable gastric or GEJ adenocarcinoma or metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma whose tumors have CLDN18.2 expression. The safety and efficacy of the agent under investigation have not been established for the uses being considered. For more information, please visit clinicaltrials.gov under Identifier NCT05365581 . There is no guarantee that the agent(s) will receive regulatory approval and become commercially available for the uses being investigated. About Astellas Astellas is a global life sciences company committed to turning innovative science into VALUE for patients. We provide transformative therapies in disease areas that include oncology, ophthalmology, urology, immunology and women's health. Through our research and development programs, we are pioneering new healthcare solutions for diseases with high unmet medical need. Learn more at www.astellas.com. Cautionary Notes In this press release, statements made with respect to current plans, estimates, strategies and beliefs and other statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements about the future performance of Astellas. These statements are based on management's current assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to it and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: (i) changes in general economic conditions and in laws and regulations, relating to pharmaceutical markets, (ii) currency exchange rate fluctuations, (iii) delays in new product launches, (iv) the inability of Astellas to market existing and new products effectively, (v) the inability of Astellas to continue to effectively research and develop products accepted by customers in highly competitive markets, and (vi) infringements of Astellas' intellectual property rights by third parties. Information about pharmaceutical products (including products currently in development) which is included in this press release is not intended to constitute an advertisement or medical advice. References 1 World Cancer Research Fund International. Stomach Cancer Statistics. Available at: https://www.wcrf.org/cancer-trends/stomach-cancer-statistics/ Last accessed: January 2025. 2 Shitara K, Xu R-H, Moran DM, et al. Global prevalence of CLDN18.2 in patients with locally advanced (LA) unresectable or metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction (mG/GEJ) adenocarcinoma: Biomarker analysis of two zolbetuximab phase 3 studies (SPOTLIGHT and GLOW). J Clin Oncol. 2023;41:4035. 3 Shitara K, Lordick F, Bang Y-J, et al. Zolbetuximab plus mFOLFOX6 in patients with CLDN18.2-positive, HER2-negative, untreated, locally advanced unresectable or metastatic gastric or gastro-oesophageal junction adenocarcinoma (SPOTLIGHT): a multicentre, randomised, double-blind, phase 3 trial. The Lancet. 2023;401(10389):1655-1668. 4 Shah MA, Shitara K, Ajani JA, et al. Zolbetuximab plus CAPOX in CLDN18.2-positive gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma: the randomized, phase 3 GLOW trial. Nat Med. 2023;29(8):2133-2141. 5 World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer. Globocan China Factsheet. Available at: https://gco.iarc.who.int/media/globocan/factsheets/populations/160-china-fact-sheet.pdf Last accessed: January 2025. 6 Astellas data on file. CancerMPact Treatment Architecture - Gastric Cancer, China. Published May 2023. Based on fieldwork conducted in March 2023. 7 Li H, Zhang H, Zhang H, et al. Survival of gastric cancer in China from 2000 to 2022: A nationwide systematic review of hospital-based studies. J Glob Health. 2022;12:11014. 8 Barra WF, Moreira FC, Pereira Cruz AM, et al. GEJ cancers: gastric or esophageal tumors? Searching for the answer according to molecular identity. Oncotarget. 2017;8(61):104286-104294. 9 American Cancer Society. About esophagus cancer (03-20-2020). Available at: https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/CRC/PDF/Public/8614.00.pdf. Last accessed: January 2025. 10 American Cancer Society. Stomach Cancer Early Detection, Diagnosis, and Staging. Signs and Symptoms of Stomach Cancer (10-02-2024). Available at https://www.cancer.org/cancer/stomach-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-symptoms.html. Last accessed: January 2025. 11 National Cancer Institute. Stomach Cancer Symptoms (10-30-2024). Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/stomach/symptoms. Last accessed: January 2025. 12 The Royal Marsden. Stomach cancer symptoms: What are the signs of gastric cancer? (05-23-2022). Available at: https://www.royalmarsden.nhs.uk/private-care/news-and-blogs/stomach-cancer-symptoms-what-are-signs-gastric-cancer. Last accessed: January 2025. 13 American Cancer Society. Stomach cancer causes, risk factors and prevention (01-22-2021). Available at: https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/CRC/PDF/Public/8839.00.pdf. Last accessed: January 2025. 14 American Cancer Society. Esophageal cancer causes, risk factors, and prevention (06-09-2020). Available at: https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/CRC/PDF/Public/8615.00.pdf. Last accessed: January 2025. 15 Sahin U, Tureci O, Manikhas G, et al. FAST: a randomised phase II study of zolbetuximab (IMAB362) plus EOX versus EOX alone for first-line treatment of advanced CLDN18.2-positive gastric and gastro-oesophageal adenocarcinoma. Ann Oncol. 2021;32(5):609-19. SOURCE Astellas Pharma Inc. KIRKLAND, Wash. and PHILADELPHIA , Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The City of Philadelphia announced today it has selected INRIX, a leading provider of transportation data and analytics, to help the City revolutionize curb and right-of-way (ROW) management using NEW products offered in the INRIX IQ suite. The City of Philadelphia received USDOT Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART) grant funding to optimize the use of the limited space in the ROW by creating a clear way to organize and communicate its rules and policies. The new cloud-based product, INRIX IQ Road Rules, will hold digital twin information about the City's streets, sidewalks, and curbs. It allows staff to communicate temporary and permanent rule changes across internal departments and externally to stakeholders such as digital mapping companies (e.g., Apple, Google, HERE, Mapbox, TomTom) and fleet operators (e.g., autonomous vehicles, delivery companies, rideshare). The City of Philadelphia has selected INRIX to help the City revolutionize curb and right-of-way management Post this "Road Rules gives the City more capacity to improve ROW management through data and technology," said Akshay Malik, Smart Cities Director, City of Philadelphia. "We can leverage existing data standards from the Open Mobility Foundation to map the ROW in more detail and test new ways to digitally manage it through our pilot in Center City, improving safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians." INRIX enables agency staff to take a data-driven approach to curb and ROW management to improve safety, reduce congestion, and improve access to local businesses. Road Rules provides the City of Philadelphia several key capabilities: Creation of a building-face-to-building-face digital twin of the ROW -- including travel lanes, curbs, and sidewalks -- in the pilot zone Pre-loaded inventory of curb rules in the entire city center Deep insights into use of the curb, including real-time and historic information on occupancy Advanced tools for digital editing and coordination of ROW regulations Standardized communication of digital ROW rules through state of the practice versions of the Curb Data Specification (CDS) and Mobility Data Specification (MDS) APIs "The building-face-to-building-face ROW is utilized by a myriad of stakeholders, including people walking, biking, waiting for and riding public transportation, driving, and freight deliveries. In recent years, the public ROW has become a laboratory for new uses such as shared scooters, ride hail drop-offs and pick-ups, parklets, play streets, food delivery, autonomous vehicles, and sidewalk robots. This experimentation will only increase in upcoming years and cities need tools to steer these initiatives towards their long-held goals," said Ahmed Darrat, Chief Product Officer at INRIX. "Urban areas are complex ecosystems that require meticulous planning and management. INRIX IQ's robust insights across traffic, incident, parking, and safety management provide a comprehensive digital view while our Road Rules products allow staff to it intuitively and seamlessly act on emerging initiatives and digitally communicate rules to the wide array of stakeholders as they happen." "The open-source standards stewarded by the Open Mobility Foundation (OMF) give local government more effective tools to address policy priorities. We're excited to see member organizations INRIX and the City of Philadelphia further the state of the practice by using the Mobility Data Specification and Curb Data Specification to digitally manage the full public right of way," said Andrew Glass-Hastings, Executive Director, Open Mobility Foundation. "This SMART grant and the partnerships and learnings it will produce represents the next step in OMF's mission of transforming how cities manage public space using well-designed, open-source technology." Philadelphia joins innovative cities like Portland, San Francisco, and Minneapolis in deploying INRIX cutting-edge digital infrastructure management solutions as part of their SMART grant projects. Other cities like Nashville are leveraging the same tools and pre-loaded parking data for day-to-day curb management. Through its data-as-a service and software-as-a-service applications, INRIX collects and maintains information about the full ROW, including APIs consumed by private sector stakeholders through the INRIX ecosystem of enterprise customers, all while minimizing the need for large up-front costs and efforts and eliminating the need for ongoing contractor services. For more information about Philadelphia's Smart City initiatives, visit https://www.phila.gov/programs/smartcityphl/. About INRIX Founded in 2004, INRIX pioneered intelligent mobility solutions by transforming big data from connected devices and vehicles into mobility insights. This revolutionary approach enabled INRIX to become one of the leading providers of data and analytics into how people move. By empowering cities, businesses, and people with valuable insights, INRIX is helping to make the world smarter, safer, and greener. With partners and solutions spanning across the entire mobility ecosystem, INRIX is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology and transportation whether keeping road users safe, improving traffic signal timing to reduce delay and greenhouse gasses, optimizing last mile delivery, or helping uncover market insights. Learn more at INRIX.com. SOURCE INRIX STAMFORD, Conn., Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Czech Asset Management, L.P. ("CAM") and Voya Investment Management have made the decision to transfer the CAM business to entities affiliated with its founder and Chief Investment Officer, Stephen J. Czech. Going forward, CAM will operate as a separate and independently owned company led by Stephen J. Czech. Steve Czech, Founder, Managing Partner, and Chief Investment Officer of CAM said, "CAM is well-positioned to capitalize on the rapidly growing demand for private credit, in general, and direct lending, in particular." Stephen J. Czech Managing Partner Czech Asset Management, L.P. Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal counsel to Stephen J. Czech. About Czech Asset Management, L.P.: CAM, with approximately $5.5 billion of capital under management since inception, is a Stamford, CT-based direct lending and private credit investment advisory firm engaged in providing privately negotiated, asset-based and cash-flow first lien secured floating rate senior secured loans primarily to U.S. middle market companies. About Stephen J. Czech: Mr. Czech has over 36 years of credit and corporate finance experience, a long track record of establishing and running direct lending credit funds and has been managing direct lending credit funds for 22 years. Said experience includes sourcing, structuring, underwriting, monitoring, and restructuring corporate loans. Prior to founding CAM in December of 2011, Mr. Czech was Managing Director and Portfolio Manager of SJC Onshore Direct Lending Fund, L.P. and the SJC Offshore Capital Finance Fund, L.P. (collectively," SJC"), a subsidiary of Morgan Stanley Investment Management. Mr. Czech joined SJC in January 2010. Prior to joining SJC, Mr. Czech was a Managing Director and Portfolio Manager of Gottex - SJC ("Gottex") from May 2009 to December 2009. Prior to joining Gottex, Mr. Czech was the founder, Managing Director and Portfolio Manager of Contrarian Capital Finance, L.P. ("Contrarian") from 2003 to 2008. During this period, Mr. Czech created and ran a direct lending fund in a nearly identical strategy to the current strategy he is now managing for CAM investors. Prior to joining Contrarian in 2003, Mr. Czech was employed by Credit Suisse First Boston ("CSFB"), where he was the head of the Mezzanine Finance Group from 2001 to 2003. Prior to joining CSFB, Mr. Czech was employed by Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette ("DLJ") from 1998 to 2001. At DLJ, Mr. Czech was a member of the Leveraged Finance Group. Mr. Czech was also a Senior Credit Officer of ABN AMRO's Leveraged Finance Group and a Vice President at Banc of America Securities. Mr. Czech and his family are significant donors to, and advocates of, causes related to: (i) terminally ill children, (ii) active-duty and retired Navy SEALs and their families; (iii) tradesmen (i.e., carpenters, electricians, plumbers, painters, contractors, welders, pipefitters, riggers and hospitality industry workers), (iv) first responders (i.e., police, fire and EMTs); and (v) scholarships for underprivileged high-school students throughout the United States. Mr. Czech is the founder and Co-Chairman of the Mikey Czech Foundation, a lifetime member of The Navy SEAL Foundation National Leadership Council, a member of the Advisory Board of the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, a lifetime member of the University of Chicago's Founders Circle, Maroon Loyalty Society and Chicago Society, a Laureate member of the Dean's Society of the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, a member of Villanova University's President's Club, Matther Carr Society, a member of the Aesclepian Society of Harvard / Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, a member of the Harvard / Dana-Farber Cancer Institute's President's Circle and a member of the Harvard / Dana-Farber Presidential Visiting Committee for Pediatric Oncology. Mr. Czech received a B.S. from Marquette University and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. SOURCE Czech Asset Management, L.P. VANCOUVER, BC, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - Defense Metals Corp. ("Defense Metals" or the "Company"; (TSXV: DEFN) (OTCQB: DFMTF) (FSE: 35D) today issued a letter to shareholders from its Executive Chairman, Guy de Selliers, highlighting recent developments and the progress of the pre-feasibility study for the Company's Wicheeda Project. The full letter is embedded in this news release below. Dear Shareholders, As we start 2025, my colleagues and I at Defense Metals look forward to the year ahead with confidence and optimism. We take pride in having dealt with the legacy challenges of the last year and believe Defense Metals is now poised to make significant progress in developing our world class Wicheeda rare earths deposit. As previously announced, our pre-feasibility study results are expected to be released in early February. Hatch has been appointed to manage the pre-feasibility process and to act as qualified person for the overall study with the support of SRK and other world-renowned experts. This gives assurance that this pre-feasibility study will provide reliable numbers to assess the economic potential of our project. We have a strengthened management team led by our new CEO, Mark Tory. He brings a wealth of experience in the management of mining companies, including in the rare earths industry. We have also a number of new full-time employees in particular Alex Heath as SVP strategy and interim CFO and Michelle Tanguay, responsible for environment, regulatory and social performance. Our Board is composed of experienced directors with strong track records. I assumed the position of Executive Chairman last summer. Suzanne Rich Folsom, who has served as General Counsel of some of the largest companies in the U.S., joined last July. Luisa Moreno, Dale Wallster and Ted Kavanagh continue as active members as well. We also have a Resource Capital Funds observer on the board, which illustrates the strong support we enjoy from our largest institutional investor. Having raised C$4 million in October, we have the resources necessary to finalise our pre-feasibility study. I personally invested more than C$1.7 million as part of that fundraise. Because of the urgency of raising these funds and the difficult market conditions, this was done through a secured convertible note. I would like to stress that these notes automatically convert to equity in the context of any future equity financing over C$4 million in order to eliminate any debt overhang that could be of concern to investors. We maintain strong relationships with all key stakeholders, including the McLeod Lake Indian Band whose traditional territories host our deposit, as well as with Government authorities in Canada, at both Federal and provincial level, in the United States, and in Europe. Recent geopolitical developments and the increasing concerns about the persistent and excessive over-reliance on China for rare earth supplies opens many possibilities for technical cooperation and financial support from industry and government entities. Additionally, systemic forms of support from Governments through tariffs and other policy initiatives could underpin and stabilise the market prices for our products. We are in active discussion with prestigious government-backed research institutions such as Saskatchewan Research Council in Canada and Oak Ridge National Laboratory in the U.S. We have also applied for grant funding in both countries and are optimistic that some of these will materialise soon. We are in constructive discussions with a number of potential partners and off-takers, many of whom have received samples of our concentrate/carbonate produced during pilot plant testing. Rather pleasingly, all sample recipients have reacted positively and confirmed their potential interest. Finally, the rare earths reference price has started to recover from the last summer's lows and is projected to continue to do so as forecasted by Argus in a recent report and by most analysts. Our share price has also now rebounded quite substantially. We have everything it takes to be successful in developing the Wicheeda deposit which is one of the very best deposits in North America. It has good grade, spectacular mineralogy allowing us to produce a very high-grade mineral concentrate, great location with access to infrastructure and to skilled labour force, and supportive government and great relations with our First Nation partner. Dear Shareholders, I am well aware that you might have been disappointed by Defense Metals performance in the past, but I believe that the stars are now aligned for a dramatically improved performance in the future. I have more than 40 years of experience in developing mining projects around the world and I know that it is always challenging, that it takes longer than expected and, that it is full of surprises. But in this case, I am extremely bullish and I hope that you, as shareholders, will see why and will continue to travel with us on this exciting journey. I wish you a prosperous and happy New Year. Guy de Selliers Executive Chairman Defense Metals Corp. About Defense Metals Corp. and its Wicheeda Rare Earth Element Project Defense Metals Corp. is focused on the development of its 100% owned, 11,800-hectare (~29,158-acre) Wicheeda REE Project that is located on the traditional territory of the McLeod Lake Indian Band in British Columbia, Canada. The Wicheeda REE Project, approximately 80 kilometres (~50 miles) northeast of the city of Prince George, is readily accessible by a paved highway and all-weather gravel roads and is close to infrastructure, including hydro power transmission lines and gas pipelines. The nearby Canadian National Railway and major highways allow easy access to the port facilities at Prince Rupert, the closest major North American port to Asia. For further information, please visit www.defensemetals.com or contact: Alex Heath Senior Vice President, Corporate Development & Interim CFO Tel: +1 604-354-2491 Email: [email protected] 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 contains "forwardlooking information or statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, which may include, without limitation, any statements (expressed or implied) relating to: advancing the Wicheeda Project, the use of net proceeds from the Private Placement, final TSXV approval of the Private Placement, the technical, financial and business prospects of the Company, its project and other matters. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as "plan," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "outlook," "estimate," "forecast," "project," "continue," "could," "may," "might," "possible," "potential," "predict," "should," "would" and other similar words and expressions, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, that address events, contribution or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future, including the price of rare earth elements, the anticipated costs and expenditures, the ability to achieve its goals, that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner, that financing will be available if and when needed and on reasonable terms. Such forward-looking information reflects the Company's views with respect to future events and is subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including the risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of exploration and metallurgical results, risks related to the inherent uncertainty of exploration and development and cost estimates, the potential for unexpected costs and expenses and those other risks filed under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca). While such estimates and assumptions are considered reasonable by the management of the Company, they are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive and regulatory uncertainties and risks. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements include, but are not limited to, continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions, adverse weather and climate conditions, failure to maintain or obtain all necessary government permits, approvals and authorizations, failure to maintain or obtain community acceptance (including First Nations), risks relating to unanticipated operational difficulties (including failure of equipment or processes to operate in accordance with specifications or expectations, cost escalation, unavailability of personnel, materials and equipment, government action or delays in the receipt of government approvals, industrial disturbances or other job action, and unanticipated events related to health, safety and environmental matters), risks relating to inaccurate geological, metallurgical, engineering and pricing assumptions, decrease in the price of rare earth elements, the impact of viruses and diseases on the Company's ability to operate, restriction on labour and international travel and supply chains, loss of key employees, consultants, officers or directors, increase in costs, delayed results, litigation, and failure of counterparties to perform their contractual obligations. The Company does not undertake to update forwardlooking statements or forwardlooking information, except as required by law. SOURCE Defense Metals Corp. NEW YORK, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The global digital photo frame market size is estimated to grow by USD 118.1 million from 2025 to 2029, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of almost 3.1% during the forecast period. For comprehensive forecast and historic data on regions,market segments, customer landscape, and companies- Click for the snapshot of this report Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Digital Photo Frame Market 2025-2029 Report Attribute Details Base Year 2024 Forecast period 2025-2029 Historic Data for 2019 - 2023 Segments Covered Distribution Channel (Offline and Online), Source (Electricity-powered and Battery-powered), and Geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa) Key Companies Covered Aluratek Inc., Creedon Technologies USA LLC, Danfoss AS, Eastman Kodak Co., GiiNii Tech Corp., Glimpse LLC, Hama GmbH and Co KG, Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co., Highland Technologies Ltd., Koninklijke Philips NV, Lenovo Group Ltd., LG Corp., NETGEAR Inc., PhotoSpring Inc., Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., Sony Group Corp., Spheris Digital Ltd., Sungale Inc., ViewSonic Corp., and XElectron Technologies Pvt. Ltd. Regions Covered North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa Region Outlook North America Europe Asia Rest of World 1. North America - North America is estimated to contribute 37%. To the growth of the global market. The Digital Photo Frame Market report forecasts market growth by revenue at global, regional & country levels from 2017 to 2027. The Digital Photo Frame market in the US is experiencing significant growth due to the introduction of innovative products and the increasing popularity of online shopping platforms for home decor items. Consumers' preference for technologically advanced products is another key factor driving market expansion. Moreover, the demand for customized digital photo frames is on the rise, providing a lucrative opportunity for market participants. Despite the economic uncertainty in the US, the market is expected to be buoyed by the increasing adoption of smart digital photo frames. For more insights on North America's significant contribution along with the market share of rest of the regions and countries - Download a FREE Sample Segmentation Overview Distribution Channel 1.1 Offline 1.2 Online Source 2.1 Electricity-powered 2.2 Battery-powered Geography 3.1 North America 3.2 Europe 3.3 APAC 3.4 South America 3.5 Middle East and Africa 1.1 Fastest growing segment: The Digital Photo Frame market encompasses various distribution channels, including specialty stores, hypermarkets, supermarkets, convenience stores, and clubhouse stores. Specialty stores, consisting of traditional home decor stores, home improvement stores, consumer electronics stores, lifestyle stores, home accents/gift stores, and craft/fabric stores, offer a wide selection of digital photo frames from various brands and price ranges. These stores are essential for vendors as they aid in planning marketing, advertising, promotions, brand building, training, and IT support budgets. Notable specialty retailers in the US include Lowes Co. Inc. (Lowes), Bed Bath and Beyond Inc., and Home Depot Product Authority LLC (Home Depot). Hypermarkets and supermarkets, such as Walmart Inc. (Walmart), provide a vast array of brands and competitive pricing, making them popular among consumers. The convenience of shopping at these stores and their extensive product offerings contribute to their popularity. Some hypermarkets, like Walmart, are expanding their presence, which may boost digital photo frame sales during the forecast period. Department stores, acting as one-stop shopping destinations, attract customers due to their extensive product availability. Notable department stores selling digital photo frames include Target Brands Inc. (Target) and Sears Brands LLC (Sears). These stores' expansion plans can also increase digital photo frame sales in the forecast period. Get a glance at the market contribution of rest of the segments - Download a FREE Sample Report in minutes! Research Analysis The Digital Photo Frame market is a growing niche in the consumer electronics industry, offering innovative ways to showcase and preserve family photo archives. These frames come in various sizes and styles, featuring LCD screens that rotate through digital photo slideshows from cloud-based storage or local photo gallery software. Personalized gadgets allow for photo editing features and customization, while smart photo displays offer remote photo access and interactive photo experiences. Home automation integration and voice-activated photo browsing add convenience, making digital photo frames not just a decorative home accessory but also a valuable tool for digital photo preservation. Prices range from budget-friendly options to high-end, personalized frames, including wall picture frames, certificate frames, mirror frames, lined frames, and more. Frames are available from frame retailers and manufacturers, with a wide selection of frame finishes, designs, and prices to suit every preference. Digital photo frames are also great for photo backup solutions and digital photo printing, making them an essential tool for anyone looking to showcase and manage their photo memories. Market Overview The Digital Photo Frame market is experiencing significant growth due to the digitization trend and the increasing popularity of Wi-Fi capabilities, smart home integration, and cloud storage. These frames offer a modern alternative to traditional picture frames, allowing users to display their family memories, certificates, achievements, and even digital art on high-resolution displays. The emergence of smart TVs and other smart home gadgets like Amazon Alexa have also fueled demand for digital frames, enabling users to automate the display of photos based on specific triggers. Marketing efforts have focused on brand engagement through showrooms and partnerships with e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Google Photos. The market is also seeing technological advancements in display technology, automation systems, and design, with options including mirrors, USB, and even frames that double as wall-mounted or table-mounted smart devices. Despite the low-profit margin, the disposable income of internet users and the growing lifestyle trend towards preserving memories in digital format continue to drive revenue in this emerging market. Rapid urbanization and the standard of living have also contributed to the growth of the digital photo frame market, with consumers seeking multifunctional devices that fit seamlessly into their smart home ecosystems. The value chain optimization of import and export analysis, trade regulations, and profit margin considerations continue to shape the market dynamics. However, economic recession and deterioration of photographs over time remain challenges for the industry. The market offers opportunities in landscape photography, home automation, and emerging revenue pockets in areas like office furnishings and interior design. Start exploring market insights by Download a FREE Sample Report in minutes! Key Topics Covered: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Venodr Landscape 11 Vendor 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 BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 6. An agreement on transport and gas cooperation between Iran and Russia may be signed during the visit of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Russia on January 17, the Iranian ambassador to Russia Kazem Jalali said in an interview with Iranian media, Trend reports. Jalali mentioned that, within the framework of the North-South International Transport Corridor, a memorandum of understanding regarding the construction of the Rasht-Astara railway has already been agreed upon by both countries. He also stated that discussions on gas transportation cooperation are ongoing. If one remaining issue is resolved, an agreement on gas transportation will be signed. Furthermore, the Iranian ambassador highlighted growing cooperation between the two countries in the fields of technology, healthcare, medical supplies, and pharmaceuticals. Jalali added that the trade turnover between Iran and Russia reached around $4.5-5 billion in the past year (2024). To note, the intergovernmental agreement signed between Russia, Iran, and India on September 12, 2000, laid the foundation for the North-South Transport Corridor. In general, several countries have ratified the said agreement. (Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Belarus, Republic of Bulgaria, India, Islamic Republic of Iran, Republic of Kazakhstan, Republic of Kyrgyzstan, Sultanate of Oman, Russian Federation, Republic of Tajikistan, Republic of Turkiye, Ukraine). The purpose of establishing the corridor is to reduce the delivery time of cargo traveling from India to Russia, as well as to Northern and Western Europe (the delivery time along the existing route is more than six weeks; it is expected to be three weeks via North-South). The Gazvin-Rasht railroad, stretching 175 km, hit the ground running on March 6, 2019, linking Azerbaijan's railroads with Iran's railway network in the corridor. The Rasht-Astara railroad is set to take shape on Iranian soil. The North-South Corridor has three directions within Iran. The eastern direction is Turkmenistan and Central Asian countries; the middle direction is Russia and other countries across the Caspian Sea; and the western direction is Azerbaijan, Georgia, Russia, and Eastern European countries. Russia and Iran signed an agreement on May 17, 2023, to build the Rasht-Astara railroad in Gilan province in northern Iran. Nine stations will be built on the Rasht-Astara railroad line, which is about 163 kilometers long. With the completion of this railroad, the North-South international corridor will be improved, and Iran's railroad network will be integrated with Caucasus countries, Russia, and Northern European countries. According to the agreement, the Russian side is expected to spend 1.6 billion euros for the construction of this railroad. This railroad will be built and completed within 48 months. Din Tai Fung and renowned Taiwanese American artist James Jean collaborate to celebrate the spirit of togetherness fostered by Lunar New Year traditions. Guests will be gifted lucky red envelopes featuring Jean's artwork and surprises inside. ARCADIA, Calif., Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Din Tai Fung, the family-owned, globally beloved restaurant brand known for the art of Xiao Long Bao and hospitality excellence, will celebrate Lunar New Year 2025 with its first-ever collaboration with renowned Taiwanese American artist James Jean. Tapped to design artwork inspired by the Year of the Snake and honoring the cultural traditions of the holiday, Jean's creation will be prominently featured on several special, limited-edition gifts for guests who take part in the celebration in-restaurant or at home. Din Tai Fung and renowned Taiwanese American artist James Jean collaborate to celebrate the spirit of togetherness fostered by Lunar New Year traditions. "As someone seeking to deepen my connection to my Taiwanese heritage, collaborating with Din Tai Fung is a meaningful way to celebrate our shared cultural roots and traditions," said James Jean. "In honor of Lunar New Year and the Year of the Snake, I created a piece that pays tribute to the holiday's traditions and symbols, as well as our rich culture and the history of the brand. The artwork features two characters holding an auspicious fish, symbolizing abundance, and a lion dance puppet, representing tradition. Flanking them are flowers named after snakes for their resemblancethe snake gourd flower and snake's head fritillaryalongside other fantastical flora with Xiao Long Bao soup dumplings sitting in the center as a nod to Din Tai Fung's specialty. I hope everyone who experiences this artwork connects with its themes of harmony and togetherness during this festive season." Red Envelopes Bearing Lucky Gifts: A nod to the traditional custom of Lunar New Year, red envelopes (also known as hongbao) designed by James Jean will be distributed to every dine-in and takeout guest beginning Jan. 21, while supplies last, at all Din Tai Fung U.S. locations except for Las Vegas. Inside each envelope is a gift of a Seaweed and Beancurd Salad appetizer*, a beloved family recipe from Din Tai Fung's matriarch Pen-Mei Lai, and an insert highlighting the lucky dishes favored for eating during the New Year celebration and beloved by Din Tai Fung guests. Five lucky guests at each participating location will receive a Golden Ticket inside the envelope that grants access to Din Tai Fung's VIP Reservation Concierge Service, which allows guaranteed and easier access to reservations for parties up to six through the end of the year.** "At Din Tai Fung, Lunar New Year is not just about honoring our heritage, but also about creating a sense of community through the joy of sharing a meal," said Jessica Chao, Vice President of Brand Marketing and Communications, Din Tai Fung North America. "The partnership with James Jean highlights the beautiful meaning behind the holiday and the artistry of Din Tai Fung's craft. We're excited to share well-wishes for the new year and invite our guests to join in on our festivities with their loved ones this season." Takeout Exclusive: Din Tai Fung is offering a first-of-its-kind limited-edition reusable takeout tote bag featuring the James Jean artwork to guests ordering $175 or more of takeout items on dtf.com, pre-tax and while supplies last at all U.S. locations, except for New York City and Las Vegas. Each bag will also receive a red envelope like those given to dine-in guests. Art Installations: Select Din Tai Fung locations will have larger-than-life installations of Jean's artwork outside to immerse guests in the Lunar New Year experience: Bellevue at Lincoln Square ( Seattle, Wa. ) - 10455 Northeast 8 th Street at Lincoln Square ( ) - 10455 Northeast 8 Street South Coast Plaza ( Costa Mesa, CA ) - 3333 Bristol Street, Suite 2071 ) - 3333 Bristol Street, Suite 2071 New York at Midtown (NY, NY) - 1633 Broadway A Menu of Auspicious Foods: Within the red envelopes, Din Tai Fung will share a thoughtfully curated selection of symbolic dishes with guests, highlighting their special significance for the New Year, including symbols of prosperity, longevity, joy, growth and abundance. * Gift to be redeemed during a future visit and is valid for one (1) time use at participating U.S. Din Tai Fung locations, except for Las Vegas, with a minimum table purchase of $20 for dine-in only. Offer expires March 7, 2025. Offer cannot be copied or transferred, cannot be redeemed for cash, and may not be combined with other offers. Void where prohibited. Consumer responsible to pay all applicable tax. Copying or altering in any way constitutes fraud. Terms are subject to change ** Valid for all participating U.S. Din Tai Fung locations for dine-in only. Service offer expires December 31, 2025. Reservation requests subject to availability and limited to two requests per month. Instructions for redemption included on each golden ticket. Offer cannot be copied or transferred and are not redeemable for cash. Copying or altering in any way constitutes fraud. Terms are subject to change. About Din Tai Fung Din Tai Fung, a globally acclaimed culinary icon renowned for the art of Xiao Long Bao, is on a mission to create first-class dining experiences through an unwavering commitment to excellence in food, service and ambiance. Originally founded as a cooking oil retail business in Taiwan in 1958 by Bing-Yi Yang and his wife, Pen-Mei Lai, Din Tai Fung was reborn into a humble dumpling and noodle shop in 1972. Today, the Michelin-recognized restaurant brand continues to be family-owned and passed down through generations, with more than 165 locations in 13 countries worldwide. Since its founding, Din Tai Fung has become synonymous with quality and consistency and known for its warm hospitality and delicacies with authentic flavors. Entering the North America market in 2000, Din Tai Fung opened its first U.S. location in Arcadia, California and has 16 locations to-date, offering an upscale yet inviting cultural dining experience. With each restaurant, each interaction, and each bite, Din Tai Fung aims to celebrate culture and inspire community around the table. For more information, please visit www.dtf.com, Facebook, and Instagram. SOURCE Din Tai Fung North America WUXI, China, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- EMSRUN Medical, a leader in tactical, pre-hospital, and civilian emergency medical solutions, marks its 15th anniversary this year. Since its establishment in 2010, the company has built an outstanding reputation for delivering critical solutions to combatants, first responders, and pre-hospital care providers. Entering this milestone year, EMSRUN continues to strengthen its commitment to innovation, reliability, and customer-centric service. EMSRUN Factory Exterior The laboratory for rigorous testing and research Throughout its 15-year journey, EMSRUN Medical has consistently garnered recognition for its systematic production and delivery processes, professional team, and tailored services. The company's success in addressing clients' needs with efficient and personalized solutions has established it as a trusted industry leader. Innovative Research and Efficient Delivery EMSRUN's integrated approach to research, development, and manufacturing combines cutting-edge innovation with operational excellence. The company's dedicated R&D team drives continuous development of new products precisely tailored to evolving market demands. Through advanced inventory, logistics, and transportation management systems, EMSRUN ensures accurate and timely delivery to customers worldwide. In a significant achievement, five core productschest seals, bandages, decompression needles, nasopharyngeal airways, and compressed gauzehave received MDR certification, establishing EMSRUN as the first Chinese supplier to achieve this recognition. Expert Team Ensures Service Quality The company's achievements are built on the foundation of its highly skilled team, comprising technical developers, production specialists, quality controllers, and customer support professionals. With 116 employees working across 1,000 square meters of office space and 8,000 square meters of laboratories and workshops, EMSRUN has developed a comprehensive operational system encompassing production, warehousing, R&D, and quality assurance. The company maintains certifications to global standards including CE, FDA, CFDA, ISO13485, and ISO14001, enabling the delivery of over 1,000 products to more than 100 countries. EMSRUN's specialized bidding document team significantly bolsters the client's success in government project tenders by aiding in the preparation of bidding documents. Tailored Services to Meet the Personalized Needs of Clients Through strategic collaboration and thorough research, EMSRUN delivers customized solutions to meet specific client requirements. The company demonstrates exceptional flexibility in adjusting product designs and refining production processes to ensure precise alignment with clients' unique needs. A notable example of EMSRUN's adaptability emerged in 2021 when Lithuania implemented new medical policies requiring updated emergency kits. EMSRUN rapidly responded to this challenge, becoming the preferred supplier for this critical initiative. The client's requirements encompassed kits compliant with new standards, customized packaging featuring the client's logo, optimized box loading for efficient transport and storage, and strict delivery timeline adherence. EMSRUN successfully reconfigured kit contents to meet policy requirements, redesigned packaging for cost-efficient logistics, and ensured timely production and delivery, enabling the client to meet market demands effectively. Despite pricing pressures from market competition, EMSRUN optimized its production processes and adjusted prices to maintain the client's competitive advantage. This successful collaboration resulted in rapid market share capture for the client while reinforcing EMSRUN's reputation for quality and responsiveness. As EMSRUN celebrates this significant milestone, the company maintains its dedication to advancing systematic production, innovative delivery processes, and personalized services. Through continued partnership with clients and collaborators, EMSRUN strives to make increasingly significant contributions to the emergency medical field while creating enhanced value for all stakeholders. CONTACT: E-mail: [email protected] Name: Kevin Hua Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2590042/EMSRUN_Factory_Exterior.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2590043/The_laboratory_rigorous_testing_research.jpg WASHINGTON, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Groom Law Group, Chartered celebrates the promotion of two attorneys to principal, effective January 1, 2025. Groom is also pleased to announce the promotion of one attorney to senior counsel and one attorney to of counsel. At Groom, our people are the heart of what we do, and we take pride in the well-deserved promotions of four talented attorneys whose hard work and dedication exemplify the firm's culture and values. "It's an honor to recognize David, Scott, Michael, and Rina for their achievements. Their passion for their work and unwavering commitment to our clients make them invaluable members of the Groom family," said Executive Principal, Christine Keller. Groom's two new principals: David Ashner has consistently demonstrated exceptional expertise in tax-qualified retirement plans, earning the respect and trust of clients and colleagues alike. David's practical solutions and thorough understanding of the Internal Revenue Code have set him apart as a leader in the field. His dedication to crafting innovative retirement plan designs has significantly benefited clients and enhanced their long-term success. Scott Mayland is a guiding force in fiduciary and plan governance matters, making a meaningful impact on our clients' success. Scott's thoughtful guidance and commitment to upholding fiduciary best practices have been instrumental in helping clients navigate governance challenges. His collaborative approach and keen insight ensure that clients are well-positioned to achieve their goals. Groom's new senior counsel: Michael Cook has a wealth of experience in assisting clients with qualified and nonqualified plan compliance and design, operational issues, and complex ERISA matters. His work also extends to helping plan sponsors, service providers, and financial institutions navigate the intricacies of Code Section 409A issues and executive compensation arrangements. Michael's ability to provide practical, client-focused solutions has made him a trusted advisor in the field. Groom's new of counsel: Rina Fujii focuses on providing strategic counsel on tax-related matters affecting retirement and executive compensation plans. Her expertise includes navigating all phases of retirement plan design and drafting, as well as advising on day-to-day compliance and administration processes. Rina's ability to analyze intricate tax and deliver practical guidance has made her an invaluable resource for her clients. 2025 leadership changes: As part of Groom's continued focus on long-term planning and transition, Groom is also pleased to announce that David Levine succeeds Jon Breyfogle as Chair of the firm, effective January 1, 2025. Levine said, "I appreciate the trust my colleagues have placed in me and look forward to working with them to continue our tradition of high quality, practical advice to our clients. Our firm's 2025 promotions reflect not just professional excellence, but the collaborative spirit and innovation that define Groom. David, Scott, Michael, and Rina embody the very best of our firm. Their commitment to their clients and colleagues has helped to strengthen Groom's culture and reputation, and their leadership will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping the future of the firm." About Groom Law Group, Chartered Groom is an award-winning law firm that solves complicated legal issues for plan sponsors, health insurers, financial institutions, retirement services providers, and the public sector. Since our founding in the wake of ERISA's passage, Groom's rapid response to shifts in the laws that impact employee benefits, retirement and health care has been our calling card. With nearly 100 attorneys, Groom's benefits, retirement services and health industry practices, along with our litigation and policy groups, are among the largest in the United States. Press Contact Sandria Lherisse, [email protected], (202) 861-2603 SOURCE Groom Law Group, Chartered NEW YORK, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Guild Garage Group ("Guild"), an alliance of residential focused garage door service companies focused on replacement, repair and installation, has announced the completion of its strategic partnership with The Jaydor Company ("Jaydor"), a leading family-owned and operated garage door service company based in Norristown, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1965, by Joe "Pop" Cifelli, Jaydor has been installing, servicing and repairing garage doors in the Greater Philadelphia area for close to 60 years. Guild Garage Group has announced the completion of its strategic partnership with The Jaydor Company. Post this Guild Garage Group is a newly formed alliance of residential garage door service companies and is actively looking to partner with owners of industry-leading companies. Guild is guided by the vision of being the preferred partner to business owners through a "made for you" brand positioning and invests in companies with strong management teams and cultures to create unmatched growth opportunities for them. More information about Guild can be found at https://www.guildgaragegroup.com/. (PRNewsfoto/Guild Garage Group) "We couldn't be more excited to welcome the Cifelli Family and the rest of the Jaydor team to Guild," said Tim O'Reilly, CEO of Guild. "The Cifellis have built a best-in-class garage door business by taking great care of their people and by providing unmatched service to their customers. We look forward to working with, and learning from, the entire Jaydor team as the business begins its next chapter of growth." "Guild's model is predicated on giving best-in-class owner operators the support and resources they need to take their businesses to the next level while still carrying on their business' unique legacies. Jaydor is a perfect example of this. We look forward to working with the Cifelli family to continue to double down on what makes their third-generation family-owned business so special, while simultaneously propelling Jaydor forward for its next chapter of growth," said Jordan Dubin, Co-Founder of Guild. "While we were approached by many interested parties, Guild's proposal was truly differentiated. After speaking with several members of the Guild team, and other owners already a part of the platform, it was clear that Guild was building something truly exceptional that aligned perfectly with the values our family and Company stand for," said John Cifelli, President & Owner of Jaydor. "We are thrilled to be joining the GGG team and look forward to helping Guild become one of the largest garage door repair companies in the United States." Guild is actively looking for leading garage door service businesses across the country. Founders and advisors interested in learning more should contact Jordan Dubin at [email protected] . About Guild Garage Group Guild Garage Group is a newly formed alliance of residential focused, industry-leading, garage door service companies. Guild is guided by the vision of being the preferred partner to business owners through a "made for you" brand positioning and invests in companies with strong management teams and cultures to create unmatched growth opportunities for them. Guild allows owners to take chips off the table while retaining "unit level ownership" so they continue to benefit from annual distributions and an eventual full exit as their business grows. Guild retains the employees and management teams of the companies it partners with and provides them with the resources and processes they need to better serve their customers, employees, and communities. More information about Guild can be found at https://www.guildgaragegroup.com/ . About The Jaydor Company The Jaydor Company is a leading family-owned and operated residential and commercial garage door service company based in Norristown, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1965, by Joe "Pop" Cifelli, Jaydor has been installing, servicing and repairing garage doors in the Greater Philadelphia area for three generations. Jaydor offers a range of services related to garage doors, including repair options, garage door replacement, and installation. More information about Jaydor can be found at https://jaydorco.com/. SOURCE Guild Garage Group Featuring 13 groundbreaking innovations, including this year's Best of Innovation Award in Digital Health, to drive transformative solutions for societal change SEOUL, South Korea, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Hanyang University, a global leader in industry-academia collaboration, is proud to announce its first independent pavilion at CES 2025 Eureka Park, further solidifying its position as a pioneer in innovation and research. With a strong track record of excellence, Hanyang University has been recognized with multiple CES Innovation Awards over the years, including this year's Best of Innovation Award in Digital Health and an Innovations Awards Honoree in Mobile Devices and XR Technologies. Join us at the HYU Pavilion within Eureka Park (Booth #61441) The Hanyang University Pavilion will highlight cutting-edge advancements developed through its robust R&D ecosystem, with participating exhibitors spanning a variety of fields, including Digital Health, Artificial Intelligence, Sustainability, Education Tech, and more. Hanyang University invites CES attendees to its Open Pitching Sessions on January 8th and 9th, where exhibitors will present their innovations and demonstrate their potential impact on global industries. These sessions aim to foster partnerships and inspire collaboration with global innovators, investors, and industry leaders. The Pavilion is located at Eureka Park, Booth #61441. HYU Pavilion Exhibitors: Aidicome: The 3D holographic platform SoulCube preserves the memory of beloved pets through lifelike interactions, emotional connections and dynamic animations. EIDL: CES Innovations Awards 2025 Honoree EIDL's metalens imaging system, combines AI-driven image restoration with nanostructured lenses to deliver distortion-free, high-quality visuals in an ultra-compact form. Huject Corp.: The Smart Cane WEBOM is equipped with a LiDAR sensor to detect obstacles, enhancing safety for visually impaired users, with mobile app integration for emergency features. iBoda: iBoda is an AI-powered art education platform offering personalized lessons, critiques, and virtual galleries based on Art Learning Analytics to make learning more engaging and tailored to individual growth. Luxtep Healthcare: Lumiplay is a responsive mat with gait analysis for toddlers, detecting developmental delays through interactive, sensory, and motor skill-enhancing play. NGL Transportation LLC: Innovative TMS and YMS is revolutionizing logistics with AI-powered OCR, intelligent decision-making, and full operational visibility to improve efficiency and precision. Nursing XR: Nursing XR uses AI-based virtual patients to enhance healthcare professionals' empathy, communication, and clinical competencies through tailored feedback. Orbitree: VisionTrack is a healthcare device utilizing AI and machine vision to diagnose eye movement disorders such as strabismus, providing personalized insights. Play Lab.: Awarded the Best of Innovation Award in Digital Health for CES 2025, TD2 is a digital therapy device managing tinnitus through VR and multisensory cognitive behavior therapy, offering at-home, drug-free treatment. SOLIVIS: Solivis is innovating solid-state batteries with proprietary sulfide-based electrolytes to enhance performance and process efficiency, striving to become the global leader in solid electrolytes by 2030. SpaceMap: 42TALKS is an online meeting and collaboration tool with a 4D digital replica of orbital areas, supporting real-time satellite conjunction evaluations and collision avoidance. The King: The King is a wearable device that tracks erectile health during sleep, providing discreet, clinical-grade data for proactive health management. Zkrypto: Zkrypto utilizes zero-knowledge proof (ZKP) technology to enable private and secure transactions without exposing sensitive data. About Hanyang University Since its founding in 1939, Hanyang University has been at the forefront of bridging academia and industry. With its groundbreaking approach to R&D and education, the university continues to lead in producing practical solutions to real-world challenges. Its comprehensive innovation ecosystem has made it a top performer in technology transfer and startup support in Korea. For more information visit www.hanyang.ac.kr SOURCE Hanyang University The award is part of Multi-Housing News' 18th annual awards program, celebrating the most noteworthy companies in the housing industry. OREM, Utah, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Havenpark Communities, an operator and developer of manufactured home communities, is proud to receive Multi-Housing News' Humanitarian Award for the second consecutive year. The award recognizes Havenpark's Education Success Program, which supports residents in achieving their post-secondary educational goals through academic scholarships, mentoring, and other educational initiatives that increase residents' access to education. Havenpark's Director of Education Success Jason Hale accepted the Humanitarian Award from Multi-Housing News Editor-in-Chief Jessica Fiur at the MHN Excellence Awards ceremony December 5, 2024 in New York City. Photo by Gary Spector. Since its creation in 2021, the Education Success Program has awarded academic scholarships to 101 students, helping residents pursue post-secondary education at colleges, universities, trade schools, and vocational schools. Each year, Havenpark invests a minimum of $500,000 in the program, which provides students with financial assistance, opportunities to engage with career and education experts, and personalized mentorship to help students navigate their higher education journeys. "We are honored to be recognized by Multi-Housing News with their Humanitarian Award for the second year in a row. When our co-founder J. Anthony Antonelli created this program in 2021, it was because of his belief that access to higher education could make a meaningful difference in a person's life trajectory. In a few short years, we have seen more than a hundred success stories, and we look forward to many more," said Havenpark Co-Founder and CEO Robbie Pratt. "We are proud to accept this award as a tribute to his legacy." In November, Havenpark celebrated National Scholarship Month by honoring this year's 42 scholarship recipients. Among them, 73 percent are first-generation college students, and 74 percent plan to pursue education at a 4-year college or university. "It's an honor to lead this program and support these exceptional students in every step of their educational journey," said Dr. Jason Hale, director of Havenpark's Education Success Program. "The Education Success Program demonstrates our commitment to increasing higher education access for our residents, and it's rewarding to have our efforts recognized by Mutli-Housing News." The 2025 J. Anthony Antonelli Scholarship application is now open. Interested applicants can learn more about the program and eligibility at Havenpark's website: http://havenparkcommunities.com/education/. About Havenpark Havenpark is an operator and developer of manufactured home communities and makes caring communities attainable for responsible residents. Havenpark believes in respectful and professional management, well-maintained communities, and attainable homeownership. Havenpark makes long-term investments in its communities, providing enduring value for current and future residents. MEDIA CONTACT: Jenny Werwa, [email protected] SOURCE Havenpark Communities AUSTIN, Texas, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Incline P&C Group, a leading property and casualty insurance program market services firm, is pleased to announce the appointment of Sheel J. Patel as Chief Risk and Strategy Officer (CRSO) and Lauren Wiedenfeld as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Both executives bring decades of experience in financial management, strategy, and leadership across major organizations, positioning Incline for continued growth and success. Sheel Patel moves into the CRSO role after serving as the firm's CFO, where she played a key role in shaping the company's strategic financial operations. Patel will work closely with Chris McClellan, Incline CEO to bring strategic and risk management focus to the firm's growing program services platform, which includes nationwide A- rated E&S and admitted capabilities. With more than 20 years of experience in financial management, business leadership, and strategy, Patel has held pivotal roles at prestigious organizations. She previously served as CFO for Houston Endowment, a $1.8 billion private foundation, Covariance Capital Management, a $2.3 billion investment management firm, and Simmons & Company, an energy-focused investment bank. Patel also spent over a decade at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Silicon Valley, Austin, Houston, and Paris, where she provided assurance and capital market services to both public and private companies. Lauren Wiedenfeld has over 20 years of experience in accounting, operations, and financial leadership within the insurance industry. Most recently, Wiedenfeld served as Incline's Vice President of Finance and Accounting Operations, contributing to the firm's financial management and strategic initiatives. Wiedenfeld will continue aligning finance and accounting operations to the firm's strategy, including digitization of back-office capabilities. Prior to joining Incline, she was a CFO consultant for a non-standard auto insurance carrier, overseeing finance and accounting functions. Wiedenfeld has also held leadership positions at Argo Group International Holdings Ltd., including Head of Accounting Shared Services and US Controller, where she played a vital role in driving the company's financial strategy and enhancing operational efficiency. Both Patel and Wiedenfeld bring a wealth of expertise that will help guide Incline P&C Group as it continues to innovate and expand its offerings in the insurance program market. About Incline P&C Group Incline P&C Group is the premier insurance program market services firm. Privately owned and operated with an exclusive focus on the program insurance market, the executive team's experience and expertise combined with effective underwriting discipline and risk management provides each client with various platforms and associated services to meet almost any need in the industry. Partnering with a team that has a wealth of experience and financial strength is critical when choosing the right program carrier. Incline brings those qualifications and more. Key services include active program management, disciplined underwriting process, risk management, reinsurance expertise, captive insurer management and economic alignment. Founded in 2015, Incline has a team of over 90 employees; headquartered in Austin, TX with offices in Dallas, TX. To learn more about Incline P&C Group, visit: https://inclinepc.com/ SOURCE Incline Insurance Group SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- PACS Group (NYSE: PACS), a nursing home operator that saw its stock soar after its initial public offering in April, has experienced a precipitous decline in recent weeks, losing 70 percent of its market capitalization since early November. The company is now grappling with allegations of deceptive Medicare billing practices, a federal regulatory investigation, delayed financial reporting and a burgeoning investor class-action lawsuit. Shareholder rights firm Hagens Berman is investigating pending claims alleging PACS and its senior executives violated the U.S. securities laws and urges investors who suffered substantial losses to submit your losses now. Class Period: Apr. 11, 2024 Nov. 5, 2024 Lead Plaintiff Deadline: Jan. 13, 2025 Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/pacs Contact the Firm Now: [email protected] 844-916-0895 PACS Swift Rise and Sudden Fall The company, which operates a network of independently run facilities under the Providence Group banner, offering services ranging from skilled nursing care to assisted and independent living, debuted on the New York Stock Exchange to considerable fanfare, its shares doubling from the $21 offering price within seven months. But the celebratory mood abruptly shifted in early November. The catalyst for the company's unraveling came on Nov. 4, when Hindenburg Research, a well-known activist short-selling firm, published a scathing report accusing PACS of a series of improprieties. The report alleged that the company had improperly exploited a Covid-era waiver to access Medicare funds for numerous patients, fabricated patient records to inflate revenue and earnings, and engaged in fraudulent licensing practices to circumvent regulatory oversight. Market Reaction and Federal Scrutiny The market reacted swiftly. PACS's stock price plummeted by more than 27 percent on the day the Hindenburg report was released, erasing nearly $12 in value per share. The turmoil intensified two days later, on Nov. 6, when PACS disclosed that it had received civil investigative demands from federal authorities regarding its reimbursement and referral practices, a development that appeared to corroborate elements of the Hindenburg report. The company also announced a delay in the release of its third-quarter 2024 financial results, further eroding investor confidence and sending shares down an additional 38 percent, closing at $18.09below its initial offering price. PACS Securities Class Action The fallout from these disclosures has extended beyond the stock market. A securities class-action lawsuit, Manchin v. PACS Group, Inc., et al., No. 24-cv-08636, has been filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. The lawsuit alleges that PACS misled investors by claiming to be successfully executing a "turnaround" strategy to restore profitability to its nursing facilities. The complaint contends that this purported turnaround was, in fact, fueled by the improper acquisition of Medicare benefits for thousands of patients. Hagens Berman's Probe In response, Hagens Berman has launched an investigation into PACS Group's business practices and disclosures. "PACS Group's alleged misuse of Medicare funds and manipulation of patient records raises serious concerns about potential fraud," said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation. If you invested in PACS Group 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 PACS case and our investigation, read more Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding PACS Group 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 [email protected]. 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, 844-916-0895 SOURCE Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP GUANGZHOU, China, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- MINISO Group Holding Limited (NYSE: MNSO; HKEX: 9896) ("MINISO", "MINISO Group" or the "Company"), a global value retailer offering a variety of trendy lifestyle products featuring IP design, today announced an offering (the "Securities Offering") of equity linked securities due 2032 in the aggregate principal amount of US$550 million (the "Securities"). Security holders may exchange their Securities for cash at any time on or after the date which is six years after the closing date to the date falling 10 scheduled trading days prior to the maturity date (both days inclusive). The Securities Offering is expected to close on or about January 14, 2025, subject to customary closing conditions. In connection with the Securities Offering, the Company expects to enter into lower strike call and upper strike warrant (collectively, the "Call Spread Transactions") with the managers of the Securities Offering and/or their affiliates and/or other financial institutions (each, a "Call Spread Counterparty") shortly after the pricing of the Securities Offering. The Securities and the lower strike call will be settled wholly in cash and the Company may issue ordinary shares (the "Shares") only under the upper strike warrant. This overall structure will enable the Company to raise funds in a form similar to convertible debt securities, whilst deferring potential dilution to a higher effective exercise price. The Company plans to use 50% of the net proceeds from the Securities Offering and the Call Spread Transactions for overseas store network expansion, supply chain optimization and development, brand building and promotion, additional overseas working capital and other general corporate purposes, and to use another 50% in purchasing the Shares and/or American depositary shares (the "ADSs") (each representing four Shares) from time to time pursuant to its share repurchase programs. The Company believes that these initiatives will further enhance the Company's long-term value for shareholders by supporting growth and expansion, enhancing operational efficiency and demonstrating confidence in the Company's business fundamentals and commitment to maximize returns for its shareholders Terms of the Securities When issued, the Securities will constitute direct, unconditional, unsubordinated and (subject to the terms and conditions of the Securities (the "Conditions")) unsecured obligations of the Company and bear interest at a rate of 0.5% per year, payable semiannually in arrears on January 14 and July 14 of each year, beginning on July 14, 2025. The Securities will mature on or about January 14, 2032, unless earlier redeemed, repurchased or converted in accordance with their terms prior to such date. The Securities will be exchanged into cash only. The initial exercise price at which the Securities will be exchanged will initially be HK$64.395 per Share, converted at a pre-determined exchange rate for U.S. dollars, representing a premium of 32.5% over the expected offer price of the Delta Placement as defined below (for reference and illustration only, the "Delta Hedging Price") and a premium of 26.1% over the closing price of the Share of HK$51.05 per Share quoted on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited ("HKEX") on January 6, 2025 (the "Stock Reference Price"). The exercise price of the Securities is subject to adjustment upon the occurrence of certain events, but will not be adjusted for any accrued and unpaid interest. In addition, following certain fundamental changes that occur prior to the maturity date, the Company will, in certain circumstances, reduce the exercise price. Security holders may exchange their Securities for cash: (i) at any time on or after January 14, 2031 to the date falling 70 scheduled trading days prior to the maturity date ("Initial Exercise Period"); and (ii) at any time from the date falling 69 scheduled trading days preceding the maturity date to the date falling 10 scheduled trading days preceding the maturity date ("Final Exercise Period"), in accordance with the terms of the Securities. Upon exercise by a Security holder of their Securities, the Security holder will receive a cash settlement amount in U.S. dollars and equal to the number of cash settled shares underlying the exercised Securities (a notional concept calculated by dividing the principal amount of the Securities by the applicable exercise price on the exercise date) multiplied by (i) if exercised during the Initial Exercise Period, the volume weighted average price of a Share over a specified period of trading days; or (ii) if exercised during the Final Exercise Period, the higher of (a) the applicable exercise price of the Securities, and (b) the volume weighted average price of a Share over a specified period of trading days, calculated in accordance with the Conditions. Holders of the Securities may require the Company to redeem all or some of such holder's Securities on January 14, 2028 and January 14, 2030 or in the event of certain fundamental changes, in each case, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Securities being redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, up to (but not including) the relevant redemption date. In addition, the Company may redeem all but not part of the Securities in the event of certain changes to tax laws or if less than 10% of the aggregate principal amount of the Securities originally issued remains outstanding at such time, in each case, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Securities being redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, up to (but not including) the related redemption date. The Securities have been offered to non-U.S. persons in offshore transactions in reliance on Regulation S under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). Call Spread Transactions The Call Spread Transactions are generally expected to reduce potential dilution to the Shares of the Company and offset cash payments that the Company will be required to make in excess of the principal amount of the Securities upon exchange of Securities by the Security holders. This will give the Company greater financial flexibility and reduce the risk exposure of the Company to market fluctuations during the tenor of the Securities to a pre-determined range. The Call Spread Transactions are expected to include: (i) Lower Strike Call: a call option transaction, granted by the Call Spread Counterparties to the Company, exercisable at the discretion of the Company, entitling the Company to (a) the difference, settled in cash, between the exercise price of the lower strike call, which is equivalent to the exercise price of the Securities, and the volume weighted average price per Share over a specified period of trading days, converted to U.S. dollars at the prevailing exchange rate, and multiplied by (b) the number of Shares underlying the lower strike call being exercised, and (ii) Upper Strike Warrant: a call option transaction with an expected exercise price of HK$102.1 per Share, representing a premium of 110.0% over the Delta Reference Price (for reference and illustration only) and a premium of 99.9% over the Stock Reference Price, granted by the Company to the Call Spread Counterparties, exercisable at the discretion of the Call Spread Counterparties, which would entitle the Call Spread Counterparties to receive newly allotted and issued Shares. In connection with establishing their initial hedges of the Call Spread Transactions, the Call Spread Counterparties or their respective affiliates expect to purchase the Shares and/or enter into various derivative transactions with respect to the Shares shortly after the pricing of the Securities. This activity could increase (or reduce the size of any decrease in) the market price of the Shares, the ADSs, other securities of the Company or the price of the Securities at that time. The effect, if any, of this activity, including the direction or magnitude, on the market price of the Shares, the ADSs, other securities of the Company or the price of the Securities will depend on a variety of factors, including market conditions, and cannot be ascertained at this time. In addition, the Call Spread Counterparties or their respective affiliates may modify their hedge positions by entering into or unwinding various derivative transactions with respect to the Shares, the ADSs, the Securities or other securities of the Company and/or purchasing or selling the Shares, the ADSs, the Securities or other securities of the Company in secondary market transactions following the pricing of the Securities and prior to the maturity of the Securities (and are likely to do so following any exchange of the Securities, repurchase of the Securities by the Company upon occurrence of certain fundamental changes or otherwise, in each case, if the Company opts to unwind the relevant portion of the Call Spread Transactions early). The effect, if any, of this activity on the market price of the Shares and/or the ADSs, or the price of the Securities will depend on a variety of factors, including market conditions, and cannot be ascertained at this time. Any of this activity could, however, also cause or avoid an increase or a decrease in the market price of the Shares and/or the ADSs, other securities of the Company or the price of the Securities. In addition, if the upper strike warrant is exercised, to settle their obligations under the Call Spread Transactions, the Call Spread Counterparties or their respective affiliates expect to sell up to the number of Shares underlying the Call Spread Transactions at the time, which could cause a decrease in the market price of the Shares and/or the ADSs, other securities of the Company or the price of the Securities. Any of the above changes in the market price of the Shares could affect whether the holders exchange their Securities and value of the consideration that the holders will receive upon exchange of the Securities. In addition, any of the Call Spread Counterparties may choose to engage in, or to discontinue engaging in, any of these transactions and activities with or without notice at any time, and their decisions will be in their sole discretion and not within the Company's control. Investor Hedging Transactions The Company expects that certain purchasers of the Securities may establish a short position with respect to the Securities by entering into short derivative positions with respect to the Shares (by entering into derivatives with an affiliate of one or more managers of the Securities Offering), in each case, in connection with the Securities Offering, and are expected to dynamically adjust their short positions in respect of the Securities they hold, in the market and/or through derivatives. Other investors in the Securities may engage in similar arbitrage activities during the tenor of the Securities. Any of the above market activities by purchasers of the Securities could increase (or reduce any decrease in) or decrease (or reduce any increase in) the market price of the Shares, ADSs or the Securities at that time, and the Company cannot predict the magnitude of such market activity or the overall effect it will have on the price of the Shares, ADSs or the Securities. In order to facilitate hedging activities of the purchasers of the Securities, a shareholder of the Company (the "Lender") controlled by Mr. Guofu Ye, Founder, Chairman and CEO of the Company, is expected to enter into a securities lending deed with an affiliate of one of the managers of the Securities Offering (the "Borrower"), pursuant to which the Lender will lend a certain number of the Shares (the "Borrowed Shares") to the Borrower. The managers of the Securities Offering are expected to facilitate sales of the Borrowed Shares in order to facilitate initial hedging by certain purchasers of the Securities of the market risk they are exposed with respect to the Securities (the "Delta Placement"). The Borrower or its affiliate will receive all of the proceeds from the sale of the Borrowed Shares. Neither the Company nor the Lender will receive any proceeds from the sale of the Borrowed Shares. Other Matters The Securities and the Borrowed Shares have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act or securities laws of any other places. They may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. persons, except pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any securities, nor shall there be a sale of the securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. This press release contains information about the pending Securities Offering, and there can be no assurance that the Securities Offering will be completed. About MINISO Group MINISO Group is a global value retailer offering a variety of trendy lifestyle products featuring IP design. The Company serves consumers primarily through its large network of MINISO stores, and promotes a relaxing, treasure-hunting and engaging shopping experience full of delightful surprises that appeals to all demographics. Aesthetically pleasing design, quality and affordability are at the core of every product in MINISO's wide product portfolio, and the Company continually and frequently rolls out products with these qualities. Since the opening of its first store in China in 2013, the Company has built its flagship brand "MINISO" as a globally recognized consuming brand and established a massive store network worldwide. For more information, please visit https://ir.miniso.com/ . 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 words or phrases such as "may," "will," "expect," "anticipate," "aim," "estimate," "intend," "plan," "believe," "is/are likely to,", "potential," "continue" or other similar expressions. Among other things, the quotations from management in this announcement, as well as MINISO's strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. MINISO may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and HKEX, in its annual report 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 statements about MINISO'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: MINISO's mission, goals and strategies; future business development, financial conditions and results of operations; the expected growth of the retail market and the market of branded variety retail of lifestyle products in China and globally; expectations regarding demand for and market acceptance of MINISO's products; expectations regarding MINISO's relationships with consumers, suppliers, MINISO Retail Partners, local distributors, and other business partners; competition in the industry; proposed use of proceeds; and relevant government policies and regulations relating to MINISO's business and the industry. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in MINISO's filings with the SEC and the HKEX. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of this press release, and MINISO undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law. Investor Relations Contact: Email: [email protected] Phone: +86 (20) 36228788 Ext.8039 SOURCE MINISO Group Holding Limited TORONTO, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Myant Corp., a leader in chronic disease prevention through precision medicine, announced the acquisition of mmHg Inc., a digital health company specializing in remote blood pressure monitoring, cardiovascular risk reduction, and chronic disease management. This acquisition expands Myant's geographic footprint and market reach to the USA, where mmHg has a significant existing customer base, including a partnership with one of the largest manufacturers of highly accurate, reliable medical devices and health products, A&D Medical. Myant and mmHg Logo (PRNewsfoto/Myant Corp.) This acquisition is part of a broader strategy of "prevention through precision" to drive forward a new era of personalized, AI-enabled remote healthcare. mmHg's platform focuses on delivering efficient, guideline-concordant care for managing cardiovascular health, particularly in remote settings. Healthcare providers gain the capability to remotely track and analyze blood pressure and a spectrum of vital cardiovascular indicators through its innovative software. By aligning patient data with clinical best practices, mmHg enhances decision-making precision, driving timely and accurate interventions. Esteemed institutions across North America, such as Beth Israel Deaconess (Harvard Medical), Johns Hopkins, Columbia University, NYU, Tulane University, and the University of British Columbia, rely on the platform to advance both patient outcomes and clinical research. By combining mmHg's advanced remote monitoring capabilities with Myant's advanced material and textile computing technology, healthcare providers will have access to continuous, real-time patient data, enabling earlier detection of health risks, personalized treatment plans, and better management of chronic conditions. The result is early disease detection that improves health outcomes, reduces hospital visits, and enhances the quality of life. "Our company is on a mission to make healthy aging a reality for millions. We want to turn the tide on chronic conditions and redefine what it means to grow older. This acquisition enhances our ability to offer comprehensive cardiovascular monitoring and risk management solutions, strengthening our role in transforming digital health and enabling this large ageing demographic to live younger, longer" said Tony Chahine, CEO at Myant. "The combination of Myant's cutting-edge textile technology and mmHg's clinically-infused software architecture will no doubt create the next generation of personalized care-delivery, where patients will be able to transmit clinical-grade, continuous vitals data feeds to a platform that presents the data in an efficient and clinically relevant manner to care teams." said Peter Wood, co-founder and Chief Operating Officer at mmHg Inc. This strategic acquisition aligns with Myant's ongoing efforts to leverage AI and advanced materials to improve patient outcomes and extend human life, and adds new capabilities to Myant's fully vertical integrated solutions About Myant: Myant exists to enable and augment quality living for all. We leverage advancements in AI, medicine and advanced materials to bring health, safety, connection and peace of mind through every stage of life. Myant is leading an evolution, where AI guardians can enhance human capabilities through textile interfaces, a connected, protective second skin. This second skin made possible by groundbreaking advanced materials blends naturally into our everyday lives, setting a new standard for seamless interaction with the digital world. From early to late life, AI guardians have the potential to advance well-being, ensure safety, redefine how we connect to society, and enable universal access to the best possible care at every moment. In 2024, Myant launched with significant growth into the EU and brought on world renowned AI Scientist Dr. Xin Gao as its Chief AI Officer. About mmHg Inc.: mmHg Inc. is a digital health company that provides remote blood pressure monitoring and cardiovascular risk management solutions. Their products, co-developed by Dr. Raj Padwal (ex CEO and principal founder of mmHg), a leader in the field of cardiovascular risk reduction, blood pressure monitoring, and technology assisted care, are designed to enhance clinical care and are widely used across North America by healthcare providers and researchers. Consumer Electronic Show (CES) 2025 From 7-10 January 2025, Myant will be at Booth #53618 at the Venetian Expo & Convention Center, 201 Sands Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89169, USA For more information, please contact: Charles Andreo [email protected] www.myant.ca Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2591480/Myant_and_mmHg.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2569573/5100779/Myant_Logo.jpg SOURCE Myant Corp. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 6. During his two-day visit to Tajikistan in mid-January, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian will sign important agreements, said Esmail Baghaei, spokesperson for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trend reports. Speaking today during a press conference in Tehran, Baghaei noted that the agreements will primarily cover the fields of economy, trade, and culture. He also mentioned that President Pezeshkians visit to Tajikistan would be the first regional visit to the Eurasian Economic Union region. The Iranian Foreign Ministry official added that, additionally, the opening of one of the cultural centers and one of the Red Crescent Society centers will take place as part of the visit. Earlier, Rustam Emomali, Speaker of the National Assembly of Tajikistan, also announced the planned visit of the Iranian president to Tajikistan. NEW YORK, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Northwind Group, a Manhattan-based real estate private equity firm and debt fund manager announced today that it provided a $62.5 million first mortgage, senior secured acquisition and lease-up loan collateralized by 303 East Wacker Drive, a 30-story Class A office property totaling over 1 million square feet including a 282-space parking garage. The loan was structured such that $32.5 million was advanced for the acquisition with the remaining $30 million held back as good news facility for accretive future leasing costs. The property is located on the Chicago River in the East Loop submarket and is currently ~75% occupied with ~5 years of remaining lease term and has signed ~300,000 square feet of new leases since the pandemic, making it one of Chicago's best performing office buildings by leasing volume. The property was acquired by a JV between 601W Companies and David Werner Real Estate Investments, both are repeat borrowers of Northwind. The financing facilitated the acquisition from the existing lender via a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure from prior ownership Beacon Capital Partners. Given the borrower's strong reputation in the marketplace, they were able to acquire the property at a significantly low basis reflecting over a 65% discount to the previous purchase price. The building has recently been renovated and modernized with over $32 million of building upgrades and tenant-focused improvements by the prior ownership, including a brand-new amenity center encompassing the entire 30th floor overlooking Lake Michigan. The recent capital investment coupled with the intrinsic advantages including 360-degree views and efficient rectilinear floor plates positions the property well to continue its strong leasing performance. David Werner said "It was a pleasure to have worked once again with Ran Eliasaf, Michael Ainbinder, and the Northwind team in the acquisition of this asset for the JV between DWREI and 601W Companies. Northwind was able to not only execute in less than thirty-days during the holiday season, but closed on the deal as promised. We are excited about 303 East Wacker and couldn't have done it without Northwind by our side. We look forward to transacting with Northwind on many more deals to come." Given the borrower's need for certainty of execution prior to year end, Northwind was able to move quickly and provide a financing solution to capitalize the acquisition. The loan reinforces Northwind's strategy of partnering with repeat institutional grade borrowers, financing centrally located, high-quality properties and caps off a year that saw the firm execute over $1.1 billion in debt transactions. These loans have included a $120 million condo inventory collateralized by the unsold units at the Mandarin Oriental Residences on Fifth Avenue, a $63 million construction loan for the development of a residential condominium property in Gramercy, a $77 million condo inventory loan to a completed residential condominium property in Austin, Texas, and most recently a $50 million bridge loan for a 20-story office property in Manhattan's Financial District. The transaction also represents Northwind's sixth loan to 601W Companies and David Werner. "We are excited to continue and expand our relationship with 601W Companies and David Werner. This transaction reflects Northwind's focus on financing strategically located properties backed by experienced sponsorship. Despite challenges in today's Chicago office market, we believe the property's in-place occupancy, strong positive cash flow reflecting high double-digit debt yield backed by strong WALT, consistent leasing momentum, and recent capital improvements, position the property to align well with our credit investment strategy. The extremely low loan basis and the sponsors' established track record in the Chicago market further reinforce our confidence in this deal," said Ran Eliasaf, Founder and Managing Partner of Northwind Group. Northwind was represented by John Vavas of Polsinelli Law Firm. About Northwind Group Northwind Group, founded in 2008 by Ran Eliasaf, is a Manhattan-based real estate private equity firm that has executed over $5.5 billion in real estate transactions covering a portfolio of 300+ properties. Northwind invests primarily in credit instruments through its discretionary closed-ended debt funds. For further information, go to www.northwind-group.com. About 601W Companies The principals of 601W Companies oversee one of America's leading private real estate acquisitions, ownership, development, and management portfolios in the country. Over the past twenty-five years, 601W has acquired many substantial and well-known commercial properties throughout the country, aggregating more than forty-five million square feet with a collective value in excess of $12 billion. About David Werner Real Estate David Werner is a NYC-based real estate investor who has been actively involved in commercial real estate for more than 40-years. He has extensive experience investing in both office and residential properties in NYC and Chicago. CONTACT: Jessica DeCanto, [email protected] SOURCE Northwind Group SK's CES 2025 booth introduces AI technology and services under the theme 'Innovative AI, Sustainable Tomorrow' SK Chairman Tae-won Chey and other key executives plan to attend to review cutting-edge AI trends and strengthen global AI partnerships LAS VEGAS, Jan. 5, 2025 SK Group, South Korea's second-largest conglomerate, will present this week at CES 2025 a blueprint for a future enabled by innovations in Artificial Intelligence (AI). SK's top executives also will be looking to strengthen its AI partnerships with leading global companies. The SK exhibit will center on demonstrations and experiences that make a future powered by AI more tangible. Post this Visitors to SKs booth at CES 2025 in Las Vegas will enter through the Innovation Gate, as shown in the rendering above. The SK exhibit will focus on SK innovations and global partnerships in Artificial Intelligence. The rendering above provides a preview of the AI Data Center display that will be at the heart of the SK booth at CES 2025 in Las Vegas. SK will showcase technologies supporting next-generation data centers for AI. At the world's most powerful tech event, four SK companies -- SK hynix, SK Telecom, SKC and SK Enmove -- will operate a joint exhibition booth with the theme "Innovative AI, Sustainable Tomorrow." The SK booth will be open January 7-10 at the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC). SK Group Chairman Tae-won Chey and top executives from major affiliates, including SK hynix President & CEO Noh-Jung Kwak, SK Telecom President & CEO Young Sang Ryu and SK Networks President Sung-hwan Choi, plan to attend. Chey and the management will tour major domestic and international corporate pavilions to review cutting-edge AI technology trends and meet with leading global companies to strengthen cooperation for building a robust AI ecosystem. SK plans to present its business vision of "creating a sustainable future and contributing to the advancement of humanity through various AI innovations." SK executives will emphasize the development of services and technologies to provide an "AI Total Solution." At the SK AI Summit 2024 in November, Chey said, "SK is a rare business in the world that can do everything from semiconductors to energy, data center construction and operation, and service development." He presented a vision of "accelerating global AI innovation by bundling various solutions from SK and its partners to resolve AI bottlenecks and bring better AI to our lives more quickly." To make a vision for AI business more tangible, SK's booth will consist of three main areas: AI DC (Data Center), AI Services and AI Ecosystem. The exhibits will be centered around demonstrations so that visitors can experience various AI services. Visitors will enter the exhibition hall through the Innovation Gate located at the entrance of the SK exhibition space. Through the 21 large LED screens decorating the Innovation Gate, visitors can watch videos of SK's AI technology and services along with the future changes they will bring. Passing through the Innovation Gate, an exhibition area themed AI DC (AI Data Center) will appear. SK's AI DC solutions (energy, AI, operation, security) will be introduced with the space centered around a 6-meter-tall large LED pillar expressing the dynamic data flow of SK AI Data Center. SK will showcase its core know-how in configuring data centers, such as energy solutions, AI semiconductors centered on HBM3E (High-bandwidth Memory), and cloud services. The exhibition zone themed AI Service will showcase AI-based technology and service contents such as GPAA (Global Personal AI Agent), AI-based advertising production solution (GenAd), media processing and content quality improvement platform (AI Media Studio). SK Telecom's AI agent Aster, which is being prepared for launch next year targeting the North American market, will be demonstrated with specific service plans to be announced. Lastly, the AI Ecosystem exhibition zone will introduce AI solutions and services from five global partners (Gauss Labs, Lambda, Anthropic, Perplexity and Penguin Solutions) building an AI ecosystem with SK. Various collaborative projects with SK based on each partner's unique technology and know-how will be shown with specific demonstrations. The Sustainable Tree, a large LED sculpture, will be installed at the exit of the exhibition to represent the theme of this exhibition in the form of media art. The goal of the CES exhibition is to show how AI technology is entering our daily lives with limitless growth potential. With collaboration essential for AI innovation, SK will continue to look for opportunities to strengthen global partnerships in AI. About SK SK Group is South Korea's second-largest conglomerate with a mission to advance businesses and industries driving global progress. With 213 companies and over 100,000 employees worldwide, SK businesses have a shared commitment to create economic value while having a positive impact on society. SK companies are global leaders in semiconductors, telecommunications, energy and life sciences. These businesses are developing carbon reduction, renewable energy and artificial intelligence technologies to make a smarter, more sustainable world. For more information on SK, visit https://eng.sk.com/. SOURCE SK Group BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 6. Iran will decide on the format of discussions related to the country's nuclear program, said Esmail Baghaei, spokesperson for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trend reports. Speaking today during a press conference in Tehran, Baghaei emphasized that Iran has never walked away from negotiations and has always expressed support for dialogue. "Iran is ready for discussions on the lifting of sanctions and conducting honorable negotiations related to the nuclear program," he said. Regarding the visit of the Omani Foreign Minister to Tehran and his message, as well as Iran's position on direct talks with the United States, the Iranian Foreign Ministry official noted that the visit of Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Al-Busaidi to Tehran was primarily focused on bilateral matters and regional processes. Iran has special ties with Oman. To note, on January 16, 2016, the JCPOA came into force between Iran and the P5+1 group (US, Russia, China, the UK, France, and Germany) regarding Irans nuclear program. However, on May 8, 2018, the US withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) between Iran and the 5+1 group (Russia, China, the UK, France, the US, and Germany) and imposed new sanctions on Iran starting from November 2018. By the end of 2020, the Iranian parliament decided to pursue a strategic plan in the nuclear sector to counter the sanctions, leading to a suspension of additional steps and the Additional Protocol as per the nuclear agreement. Consequently, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) faced a reduction in monitoring capabilities by 2030 percent. If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here Jerusalem, Jan 6 : Israeli warplanes and drones bombed more than 100 sites across the Gaza Strip over the weekend, the Israeli military said in a statement, with Palestinian health officials reporting nearly 200 fatalities. In the statement, the military said on Sunday that the airstrikes were directed at militant targets, including launch sites allegedly used to fire three rockets toward Israel on Friday, Xinhua news agency reported. The strikes reportedly killed "dozens" of Hamas fighters, according to the Israeli Defense Forces and Shin Bet. The Hamas-run Gaza Media Office reported on Saturday evening that at least 184 people were killed during about 92 Israeli airstrikes and shelling incidents over the weekend. Earlier on Saturday the Hamas-run Gaza media office said that the Israeli army carried out 94 airstrikes and shelling on the Gaza Strip over the past 72 hours, killing 184 people. In its statement, the office described the escalation as "dangerous and brutal," targeting unarmed civilians and residential areas, particularly in Gaza City. It added that many of the victims, either killed or injured, remained trapped under rubble, with damaged infrastructure obstructing their recovery and access to hospitals. Palestinian Civil Defence officials in Gaza confirmed that Israeli airstrikes had intensified violently over the past three days, which local residents have described as an extraordinarily difficult period. The statement held the Israeli army fully responsible for these "horrific crimes" and also criticised the US administration for providing Israel with weapons and political support. It called on the international community and the UN Security Council to uphold their legal and moral obligations by dispatching independent investigative teams to document these "heinous crimes" and ensure accountability for the perpetrators. "People-to-people exchanges -- direct communications between Chinese people and their foreign counterparts in all walks of life -- form part of the foundation of President Xi's international way of thinking," Robert Lawrence Kuhn, chairman of the Kuhn Foundation, told Xinhua. BEIJING, Jan. 5 (Xinhua) -- "I felt extremely grateful when I received the greeting card from President Xi," said Brian Suy, an 11th grader from the Lincoln High School in the U.S. state of Washington. On Jan. 1, Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife, Peng Liyuan, replied to a New Year card from representatives of middle school teachers and students from Washington state. In their reply card, the couple expressed their hope that the youth of China and the United States will continue to participate in China's initiative of inviting 50,000 young Americans to China for exchange and study programs in a five-year span. Earlier, the U.S.-China Youth and Student Exchange Association, as well as representatives of teachers and students from Lincoln High School and Stadium High School, who have visited China through the initiative, sent a New Year card to Xi, Peng and the Chinese people. "I am willing to be a successor to keep the relations of the people of China and America strong and close," Suy told Xinhua. "I believe that the world will ultimately be a better place if future generations strengthen these connections." BRIDGE OF FRIENDSHIP After having received New Year cards twice from Xi and his wife in reply to their greetings, teachers and students from Washington state are greatly encouraged, said Zhou Shuqi, co-chair of the U.S.-China Youth and Student Exchange Association. In February 2024, Xi and Peng extended their good wishes for the Year of the Dragon in their card to Lincoln High School, inviting students to visit China more often, including through the "50,000 in five years" initiative. These cards are a token of U.S.-China friendship and a bridge that connects young people, which "motivate us to move forward," said Zhou. Over a year, about 14,000 American youths have visited China for exchanges and study. "Our experience in China was incredibly rich and rewarding," Stadium High School Principal Shannon Marshall said. "This experience has created long-lasting friendship between American students and Chinese students." "We would love to send more students in 2025 and are so thankful for the opportunities," she said. "It was a privilege to have been able to sign a greeting card for President Xi," said Lucy Arceno, a student from Lincoln High School. Recalling her China trip, she said what impressed her the most was the hospitality of the Chinese people. "I made quite a few Chinese friends," she said. "One of my Chinese friends had this to say after we got to know each other, 'gradually it dawned on me that we are of no difference.' I found this to be a very beautiful statement about friendships." "People-to-people exchanges -- direct communications between Chinese people and their foreign counterparts in all walks of life -- form part of the foundation of President Xi's international way of thinking," Robert Lawrence Kuhn, chairman of the Kuhn Foundation, told Xinhua. "President Xi puts extra emphasis on people-to-people exchanges" in the development of bilateral relations, Kuhn said. FRIENDSHIP THAT ENDURES For Lincoln High School, warm interactions with Xi have been maintained for long. As early as in 1993, Xi visited the school as then secretary of the Fuzhou Municipal Committee of the Communist Party of China. In September 2015, he revisited the school with Peng during his first state visit to the United States as Chinese president, and encouraged students to travel to China to become more familiar with the country. During their stay, the couple enjoyed in the school's auditorium a choir performance by students from both countries. Lynn Eisenhauer, a music teacher at the school, was present. "I have had the amazing opportunity to travel throughout China three times during 2024," she told Xinhua in a recent interview. "Many of my friendships with Chinese teachers and students have begun while learning to do calligraphy together, singing side by side, or doing Tai Chi with each other." Eisenhauer was amazed that when she joined a group from Washington state to visit China last year, an opportunity came for the group to perform again before Peng during a China-U.S. youth exchange activity in Beijing, which was "a truly magical memory." "One of the ways our friendships continue to grow is through these shared experiences and the common bonds they help us to create," Eisenhauer said. "Peaceful connections and enduring friendships can make the world a better place for all of us." Maurice Chong from Washington state participated both in the choir in 2015 and the youth exchange activity in 2024. Now an exchange student at Peking University, Chong said he was inspired by Xi to study abroad back in 2015, when the Chinese president encouraged them with a Chinese adage: "Read 10,000 books and travel 10,000 miles." Xi's initiative to invite American students to China "will indeed have a big effect on people-to-people relations between the U.S. and China, and that's what we need," said Elyn MacInnis, founder of "Friends of Kuliang," a group gathering descendants of U.S. families who once lived in Kuliang, Fujian Province. Communication is a good bridge to build trust, "and trust is very important for friendship," MacInnis said. "LONG LIVE PEACE" The year 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. During World War II, China and the United States fought together for peace and justice, and the friendship between the two peoples stood the test of blood and fire and is growing ever stronger, Xi and Peng said in their New Year card. The couple's words were in response to the U.S. students' card to them, which paid tribute to this part of history. "'Long Live Peace; Eternal Friendship.' We wrote this wish in our card," said David Chong, founder and president of the U.S.-China Youth and Student Exchange Association. "We want to convey the significance of maintaining world peace and the longing for future peace to young people of both countries, and encourage them to inherit this precious friendship," Chong said. Among those sending the card was William Felagai, a 12th grader from Lincoln High School, who recalled hearing about the bilateral friendship from a Flying Tiger veteran. During World War II, a U.S. air squadron composed of pilots from the United States Army Air Corps, Navy, and Marine Corps helped the Chinese fight Japanese invaders. They are better known as the Flying Tigers. "He talked about how U.S. soldiers and pilots found refuge with Chinese villagers who were willing to risk not only themselves and their families' lives but their whole village from destruction by the Japanese military," Felagai said. Jeffrey Greene, chairman of the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation, said that Xi has recalled the epic of the Flying Tigers on many occasions, including in a reply letter to the foundation in 2023. The foundation has launched a Flying Tigers Friendship School and Youth Leaders Program, with the participation of dozens of Chinese and U.S. middle schools and universities. The program brought students from 11 U.S. states to visit China in 2024, and will be expanded in the new year, Greene said. "I'm very proud of the way that they've all understood the importance of what happened between China and the United States 80 years ago," he said. "What they learn is that there's tremendous opportunity for cooperation between the Chinese people and the American people in the future." MasterChef star Liza Hlinska admitted she was a bit superstitious and hid her pregnancy from the public. It was only in early December 2024 that it became known about the upcoming addition to the family. In fact, the celebrity had already given birth to twin daughters Solomiia and Polina but kept it a secret. ADVERTISIMENT She admitted that she was worried about the children's health, and therefore did not tell the family secret for all 8 months (she gave birth before the due date). It was only in December that Liza Hlinska posted romantic photos of her belly on Instagram. She told Alina Dorotiuk in an interview that she was afraid to show them online before. "Before I shared anything, I had to feel that the girls were okay. I didn't want to post pictures of myself pregnant. I even thought about not doing the photo shoot I had when I was pregnant. And now I am very glad that I did it because I like this photo shoot. I didn't post it because I was afraid. I was afraid that something would go wrong," the confectioner said, adding that she told about the birth of her daughters afterward, after making sure that they were fine. ADVERTISIMENT After announcing her pregnancy, Liza Hlinska received a lot of support from her fans. Moreover, she noticed that after the joyful news of the birth of her children, Ukrainians began to donate to her collection for the military. "I opened it, and it was stretching a little bit. And when I told the audience that I had given birth, they raised 100,000 hryvnias in almost a day. That's a lot for my audience. I told my sister: "Do you have to give birth every day to close the collection?" the celebrity admitted. Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Don't fall for fakes! Jerusalem, Jan 6 : Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a stern warning to Hezbollah , stating that if the armed group does not withdraw all forces north of the Litani River, Israel will break the ceasefire agreement. The terms of the ceasefire mandate Hezbollah to pull its fighters and weapons north of the Litani River by January 26. By the same date, Israel must fully withdraw its forces south of the Blue Line, the United Nations-demarcated border between Lebanon and Israel, while the Lebanese army is to deploy forces to the area, Xinhua news agency reported. Speaking on Sunday during a visit to Israel's Northern Command, Katz said Israel remains committed to enforcing the agreement. "Israel seeks to uphold the agreement in Lebanon," he stated. However, he claimed that Hezbollah has not completed the withdrawal of its forces. "If this condition is not met -- there will be no agreement," he said. The ceasefire agreement ended months of cross-border fighting between Israel and Hezbollah that began in October 2023. However, Israel has continued limited operations, claiming to target Hezbollah militants violating the truce. Lebanon and France have accused Israel of dozens of ceasefire violations, further highlighting the fragile truce. Earlier in December, The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) said on Thursday that any actions threatening the fragile cessation of hostilities in Lebanon must stop. "Both Israel and Lebanon have confirmed their commitment to the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and to addressing outstanding issues. Both parties are called upon to utilise the newly established mechanism as agreed in the understanding," UNIFIL said in a statement. UNIFIL urges the Israeli army to withdraw on time and the Lebanese Armed Forces to deploy in southern Lebanon as per the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon. The UN peace mission stressed it is working closely with the Lebanese army to accelerate its recruiting efforts and deployment to the south. The mission said it stands ready to play its part in "monitoring progress, including ensuring the area south of the Litani River is free of any armed personnel, assets, or weapons other than those of the Lebanese government and UNIFIL, as well as respect for the Blue Line." It expressed concern over "the continued destruction by the Israeli military of residential areas, agricultural land, and road networks in southern Lebanon, which constitutes a violation of Resolution 1701." Cairo, Jan 6 : Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty held phone talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, where they discussed the developments in the Gaza Strip and Syria, said the Egyptian Foreign Ministry in a statement. During the talks held Saturday night, Abdelatty stressed the importance of continuing regional and international efforts to achieve "an immediate ceasefire" in Gaza and ensure unhindered access of humanitarian aid to the enclave, according to the statement. The Egyptian foreign minister emphasised the need for Israel to stop its aggressive policies towards the Palestinian people, expressing Egypt's complete rejection of Israel's systematic targeting of health infrastructure and hospitals in Gaza, Xinhua news agency reported. Israel has been launching an ongoing large-scale offensive in Gaza to retaliate a rampage by Hamas militants through the southern Israeli border on October 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 Israelis were killed and nearly 250 taken hostage. Since then, the Israeli war in Gaza has killed 45,805 Palestinians and injured 109,064 others, according to the latest update released by Gaza's health authorities on Sunday. The UN human rights office said in a November report that of the 8,119 victims it verified from November 2023 to April 2024, about 70 percent were women and children. The US Department of State said that Blinken discussed with Abdelatty "the latest developments in ongoing efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza that secures the release of the hostages, increases the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, and brings an end to the war." The two officials also addressed the political transition in Syria following the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad's government in early December 2024. Abdelatty urged for a comprehensive political transition process free from any external dictates, in a way that contributes to achieving security and stability in Syria and guarantees its unity and territorial integrity, according to Egypt's Foreign Ministry. The US top diplomat reaffirmed "US support for an inclusive, Syrian-led and Syrian-owned peaceful political transition to a representative and accountable government," said the US statement, adding that Blinken expressed his appreciation for the role Egypt continues to play to secure peace in the region. Doha, Jan 6 : Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, met with a high-level Syrian delegation led by interim Foreign Minister, Asaad Al-Shaibani, to discuss bilateral ties and the latest developments in Syria. The delegation included Syria's Minister of Defence, Marhaf Abu Qasra, and the Head of the Intelligence Service, Anas Khattab, according to a statement from the Qatari Foreign Ministry. During the meeting, the two sides reviewed bilateral cooperation and ways to strengthen it, the latest developments in Syria, Qatar's humanitarian assistance, among other issues concerning mutual interests, Xinhua news agency reported. The Qatari Prime Minister reaffirmed his country's unwavering stance in supporting Syria's unity, sovereignty, and independence, highlighting the importance of fulfilling the aspirations of the Syrian people. For his part, Al-Shaibani praised Qatar's prominent role in supporting the Syrian people, noting that Qatar would be a key partner in the peace phase. On December 21, 2024, Qatar reopened its embassy in Damascus, Syria, becoming the second country to do so after the collapse of Bashar al-Assad's government. This marked the first time in 13 years that Qatar's national flag was raised over the embassy building. A military coalition led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) launched a major offensive from northern Syria on November 27, 2024, capturing Damascus and overthrowing al-Assad's government within 12 days. On Friday, in a post on social media platform X following his return from a two-day trip to Saudi Arabia, al-Shaibani announced the plan to visit Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan in the coming week, in an effort to bolster Syria's stability, security, and economic recovery. Addis Ababa, Jan 6 : The Ethiopian government said that it is coordinating evacuations in response to successive and recurring earthquakes wreaking havoc around eastern parts of the country. Recent tremors have shaken areas around Awash Fentale, Metahara, and Abomsa towns, with magnitudes frequently exceeding five, according to data from the US Geological Survey (USGS). According to the USGS the strongest quake, a magnitude 5.8, occurred early Saturday, striking 56 km south-southeast of Abomsa. Its epicenter was at a depth of 10 km, at 9.505 degrees north latitude and 40.169 degrees east longitude, Xinhua news agency reported . USGS data indicate that at least seven earthquakes have hit eastern Ethiopia in the past two days, marking a significant increase in intensity compared to previous weeks' moderate tremors. In a Saturday evening statement, the Ethiopian National Disaster Risk Management Commission highlighted the urgent need for action in affected areas. About 15,000 people across six localities in the Awash Fentale district, Afar region, are at risk, with 7,000 already relocated. In the Dulecha district, around 20,000 individuals have been impacted, and 6,223 have been moved to safer zones. Tremors from the earthquakes were felt as far as Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital, about 190 km west of Abomsa. The government has deployed emergency teams, including experts from various sectors, to assess damages across 12 localities in the Afar, Oromia, and Amhara regions. The Ethiopian Government Communication Service noted a rise in both the intensity and frequency of recent earthquakes, stating that the government is organising evacuations and prioritising the relocation of the most vulnerable populations in the affected areas. Adding to the crisis, a volcanic eruption was reported on Friday at Mount Dofan in the Dulecha district of Afar. Local officials are working to protect residents, state-affiliated Fana Broadcasting Corporate reported. Online videos show cracked asphalt roads and widening fissures, further underscoring the impact of the seismic activity. Experts attribute the quakes to ongoing tectonic movements within the region's basaltic rock formations, warning that the frequency of such events may persist. While major urban centers have not suffered significant damage, officials are urging the public to follow safety guidelines. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation's impact on social services, infrastructure, and the economy, promising regular updates through official channels. Seoul, Jan 6 : The South Korean anti-corruption agency has asked the police to take over the execution of a warrant to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol over his failed martial law bid, both sides said Monday. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) made the request in an official letter late Sunday with one day left until the warrant's expiry, Yonhap news agency reported. "The CIO sent us an official letter requesting our cooperation without prior consultations," a police official told Yonhap News Agency. "We are internally carrying out a legal review." The CIO halted its execution of the warrant last Friday after an hourslong standoff with presidential security staff at the presidential residence. The agency has been working with the police and the defense ministry's investigation unit to conduct a joint probe into Yoon's short-lived imposition of martial law on December 3. With the warrant set to expire at midnight, the CIO had been expected to make a second attempt at detaining Yoon or request its extension, among other options. Sources said the CIO's letter was prompting complaints within the police that the agency was trying to shift its responsibilities after passively executing the warrant last Friday. Yoon's legal team has rejected the warrant as illegal and invalid, noting the CIO is not technically authorised to investigate charges of insurrection that Yoon faces over his martial law decree. Earlier on Sunday a Seoul court dismissed the injunction filed by President Yoon that sought to invalidate the court warrants to detain him and search the Presidential residence, court officials said. The Seoul Western District Court made the decision days after Yoon's legal defence team lodged the objection to suspend the effect of the warrants that they called "illegal." Yoon's legal team said they would consider appealing the ruling. "We will consider whether to file an appeal with the Supreme Court," Yun Gap-geun, Yoon's lawyer, said. "The dismissal does not mean that the warrants are legally valid." The same court approved the warrant to detain Yoon for questioning over his role in the failed December 3 martial law bid. It also issued a warrant to search the presidential residence compound in central Seoul. Seoul, Jan 6 : South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken were set to hold talks in Seoul on Monday, focusing on their countries' bilateral alliance, efforts to deter North Korean threats and other key issues, officials said. The talks come as South Korea seeks to ensure its alliance with the US remains strong despite political uncertainties following President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment over his failed martial law attempt, Yonhap news agency reported. Blinken's visit marks the first trip by a top US official, and his planned talks with Cho will be the allies' first high-level engagement since Yoon's impeachment. Blinken arrived in South Korea late Sunday. Yoon's surprise martial law imposition sparked concerns it could undermine the alliance with Washington and policy coordination on North Korean issues, especially ahead of the launch of the second Donald Trump administration. The US has reaffirmed its strong support for the "ironclad" alliance with South Korea and voiced confidence in the country's acting leadership, despite the parliamentary impeachment of former acting President Han Duck-soo just less than two weeks after Yoon's impeachment. The allies have agreed to fully resume bilateral diplomatic and security schedules postponed in the aftermath of the martial law debacle. Monday's talks are likely to focus on reaffirming their commitment to the alliance and Washington's deterrence against Pyongyang despite the political situation. Cho and Blinken are also expected to discuss the deepening military cooperation between the North and Russia, as well as Pyongyang's troop deployment to Russia in support of its war against Ukraine. They are also expected to underscore their commitment to advancing trilateral cooperation with Japan, a key diplomatic achievement for the outgoing Biden administration and its two Asian allies. Announcing the visit last week, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said Blinken will meet Seoul officials to discuss ways the two nations can "build our critical cooperation on challenges around the world." The talks will also address strengthening efforts to promote a free, open and prosperous Indo-Pacific, as well as trilateral efforts with Japan, Miller said. Blinken is on a three-nation tour this week, with planned stops in Japan and France. The trip is widely expected to be his final overseas visit as the top US diplomat under the Biden administration. Patna, Jan 6 : Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor was arrested by the Patna Police on Monday for staging a sit-in in an unauthorised location in Gandhi Maidan, according to an official. After the arrest, a medical examination was conducted, and Kishor will be presented in court, Patna SSP Awakash Kumar told IANS. "Prashant Kishore of Jan Suraaj Party and some other people were illegally protesting in front of Gandhi statue in the restricted area of aaGandhi Maidan for their five-point demands," SSP Kumar said. He also informed that the administration had earlier issued a notice to Kishor and other protestors to move from the unauthorised area of Gandhi Maidan to the designated place of protest, Gardnibagh. "An FIR was lodged in Gandhi Maidan police station for illegally protesting in the restricted area. Despite repeated requests and giving sufficient time, the place was not vacated," the Patna SSP told IANS. "Today, on January 6, he has been arrested along with some supporters in the morning. They are completely healthy. Action is being taken to present them before the court as per the prescribed procedure," SSP Kumar added. Kishor has been actively supporting the agitating Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) candidates and has joined their protest, further bringing attention to their demands for a re-conduct of the entire 70th preliminary examination. However, his choice of venue for the sit-in has raised concerns about adherence to legal protocols. Meanwhile, Kishor defended his choice of Gandhi Maidan as a protest site, arguing that it is a public space and does not require prior permission for peaceful demonstrations. He referred to the large-scale farmer protests in Delhi, questioning whether those protests were deemed illegal and whether Delhi authorities were uninformed about the rules. Following this, Patna District Magistrate Chandrashekhar Singh clarified that Kishor's sit-in protest under the Bapu statue at Gandhi Maidan violates established regulations. "As per a 2015 Patna High Court ruling, Gardanibagh is the designated location for protests, provided prior permission is obtained from the district administration. Gandhi Maidan, a public space primarily used for recreational activities like morning and evening walks, is not authorised for protests or sit-ins. Even political rallies at Gandhi Maidan require administrative approval," Singh had mentioned. Toronto, Jan 6 : Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is reportedly preparing to step down as leader of the Liberal Party, according to a media report citing three anonymous sources. The Liberal caucus is set to meet on Wednesday, with growing demands from party lawmakers for Trudeau to resign as party leader. The sources, speaking on the condition of anonymity, revealed to the Globe and Mail that while the exact timing of Trudeau's announcement remains uncertain, they anticipate it will occur before the pivotal caucus meeting. It is also unclear if Trudeau will simultaneously vacate his position as Prime Minister or continue until a new party leader is chosen. His resignation as party leader would spark a leadership contest, with the winner expected to assume the role of Prime Minister. Trudeau has faced mounting challenges, particularly after Chrystia Freeland's abrupt resignation as Finance Minister on December 16. Freeland publicly slammed Trudeau in her resignation letter, intensifying pressure on his leadership. Adding to his troubles, Trudeau's minority Liberal government lost a critical ally in September 2024 when Jagmeet Singhas New Democratic Party (NDP) withdrew its support. Singh, in a video statement, accused the Liberals of failing Canadians and declared they no longer deserved the public's trust. This political setback has weakened Trudeau's administration ahead of the general elections slated for this year. Economic challenges have further exacerbated the Liberals' struggles, with recent polls suggesting a sharp decline in their popularity. Reports indicate that the Conservatives are poised to secure a decisive victory in the upcoming elections. Trudeau's office has not commented on the resignation rumours or provided a response outside regular business hours. Trudeau first became leader of the Liberal Party in 2013, taking the reins when the party was in a precarious position, having been relegated to third place in the House of Commons. However, his potential resignation comes at a time when the party is again facing a leadership vacuum, raising concerns about its preparedness for the impending election. The departure of Trudeau could trigger demands for an expedited general election to establish a government capable of addressing Canada's current challenges and preparing for its future dealings with the United States, particularly under the administration of President-elect Donald Trump, who has repeatedly threatened the Canadian Prime Minister of levelling heavy tariffs on the country. Sources also disclosed that Trudeau has discussed the possibility of Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc serving as interim leader and Prime Minister. However, this option might prove problematic if LeBlanc decides to contest the leadership race himself. Trudeau's departure would mark a significant shift in Canadian politics, leaving the Liberal Party without a permanent leader at a critical juncture. Tehran, Jan 6 : Iranian Justice Minister Amin-Hossein Rahimi held a meeting with Saudi Ambassador to Iran Abdullah bin Saud al-Anzi, during which both sides vowed to expand bilateral ties in various areas, especially in judicial and legal fields. Rahimi on Sunday expressed satisfaction with the resumption of friendly relations between the two countries since 2023, describing "effective, strong and strategic ties between Tehran and Riyadh as very important and influential," Xinhua news agency reported quoting Iran's official news agency IRNA. He noted the Iranian government's principled policy of developing friendly ties with all countries, especially neighbouring ones, and called for maintaining and boosting ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia in cultural, economic, and political sectors, said the report. For his part, al-Anzi called his meeting with the Iranian side "effective," and expressed hope that the expansion of bilateral ties in all areas, particularly in judicial and legal fields, would prepare the ground for a "unique leap" in ties between the two "brotherly and friendly" countries, the report added. On Wednesday, Iran summoned al-Anzi to protest the execution of six Iranian nationals convicted on drug smuggling charges in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province, saying that the executions contradicted judicial cooperation efforts between the two countries. Iran and Saudi Arabia formally declared in April 2023 the resumption of diplomatic relations with immediate effect. Saudi Arabia cut diplomatic ties with Iran in early 2016 in response to attacks on Saudi diplomatic missions in Iran. The attacks followed Saudi Arabia's execution of a Shiite cleric. Earlier in November 2024, General Chief of Staff Fayyad al-Ruwaili of the Saudi armed forces held talks with his Iranian counterpart in Tehran, marking a significant step in defence ties between the two regional powers following their diplomatic rapprochement in 2023. Al-Ruwaili met with Mohammad Baqeri, chief of staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, to explore ways to strengthen military cooperation. At the Golden Globe 2025 awards ceremony on the night of January 6, Russia suffered a sudden blow to its cinematic ego. Actor Yuri Borisov, who was nominated for Best Supporting Actor, did not receive the coveted statuette, losing to American actor Kieran Culkin for his role in the tragicomedy A Real Pain. ADVERTISIMENT For a long time, Russians actively promoted Borisov and the movie Anora, in which he starred, as the main contenders for the award. However, the gala evening brought disappointment for them - the victory went to someone else. After the results of the film award were announced, Russians were in hysterics. "While we were sleeping, Yura Borisov was swept away at the Golden Globes. The award for Best Supporting Actor went to Kieran Culkin. For the second year in a row, by the way. Kalkin went on stage in a very high spirits," Russians say in Telegram publics. However, they still hope to get at least some recognition in the international arena, so they have already set their sights on the Oscars. "We are waiting for the Oscars. Maybe we'll have better luck there," they wrote. ADVERTISIMENT On social network X, Russians also expressed their despair. They were hysterical: "It was supposed to be Yura Borisov." "Yura Borisov did not win." "I cried because Yura Borisov did not take the globe." "Yura Borisov is my love, my star anyway. I adore him!" "Go cry, Yura Borisov was left without an award." "Yura is not sad! I breathed out a sigh of relief. "It's okay, I'll take English and next year I'll definitely get the award and go on stage," Borisov thought to himself." It is known that the Best Supporting Actor nomination was contested: Denzel Washington, "Gladiator 2" Kieran Culkin, "A Real Pain" Guy Pearce, "The Brutalist" Jeremy Strong, "The Apprentice" Yura Borisov, "Anora" Edward Norton, "A Complete Unknown" Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Don't fall for fakes! Damascus, Jan 6 : Syria's interim Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani underscored his country's commitment to forging positive foreign relations across the region. In a series of posts on social media platform X, al-Shibani emphasised that Syria's new administration will adopt foreign policies that differ markedly from those implemented by the previous government. He made the remarks after talks with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani and Qatari Minister of State at the Foreign Ministry Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi in Doha, which al-Shibani described as "thorough and extensive," Xinhua news agency reported. Al-Shibani explained that key strategic issues were discussed and a roadmap for rebuilding Syria and empowering citizens was presented during the talks. "We seek to form a Syrian government representing all segments of society," he said. He praised Qatar's "prominent role" in supporting Syrians amid the recent unrest and in the current stage of Syria's reconstruction, describing the Gulf nation as a "strategic partner." Al-Shibani also highlighted Damascus's desire to "mend ties with the Arab and international community," setting aside what he called the "old regime's approach," and stressed that Syria aims for "peaceful and cooperative relations that foster principles of justice, freedom, and equality" for every citizen. The minister also urged the US to lift sanctions on the Syrian people, which he said primarily slow the pace of building a "new Syria." Al-Shibani, heading a high-level Syrian delegation that includes Defence Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra and Intelligence Chief Anas Khattab, arrived in Qatar on Sunday to discuss bilateral ties and ways to stabilise Syria amid ongoing regional challenges. On Friday, in a post on X following his return from a two-day trip to Saudi Arabia, al-Shibani announced the plan to visit Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan in the coming week, in an effort to bolster Syria's stability, security, and economic recovery. New York, Jan 6 : As investigations into the New Orleans attack cross international borders, a spotlight has been put on the terrorist's possible links to Canada from where terror threats to the US emanate. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent Lyonel Myrthil said on Sunday that Shamsud-Din Jabbar had visited Ontario Province in Canada for three days last year. His visit there in July 2023 followed a trip to Egypt starting the previous month. "Our agents are getting answers as to where he went, who he met with and how those trips may or may not tie into his actions here in our city," Myrthil said at a news conference in New Orleans. Jabbar has proclaimed his allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) and said he had joined. Myrthil said the investigation is now "crossing state and international borders." Although FBI Deputy Assistant Director Christopher Raia had earlier ruled out that "anyone else is involved in this attack," the trip to Canada raises the prospects of others helping him or goading him because of documented terror threats from Canada to the US. According to a Canadian Customs and Border Protection Service, 358 people on terror watch lists were caught trying to enter the US from Canada in the fiscal year 2024. Last year, two members of the House of Representatives, Mike Kelly and Ryan Zinke, who head the Northern Border Security Caucus, introduced a resolution calling for action against "the alarming number of suspects on the terror watchlist who are crossing into the United States along the Northern border with Canada." Just last September, a Pakistani, Muhammad Shahzeb Khan, was arrested near Canada's border with the US as he was on his way to New York allegedly to carry out terrorist attacks. He also had IS links, according to US officials, who charged him with attempting to provide support to the terrorist organisation. Fourteen people were killed, and 35 were hurt when Jabbar drove a vehicle flying the black IS flag into a crowd of people celebrating the dawn of the New Year in New Orleans French Quarter, a tourist draw. He was killed in a shootout with police when he got out of his pickup truck, guns blazing. Investigators are trying to discern how Jabbar, an Army ex-serviceman who had served in Afghanistan and had worked for a prestigious financial service company, had become radicalised. ABC News reported that Orleans prosecutor Jason Williams said the "next most important phase of the investigation is to find out how that radicalisation happened and if it happened on that trip." According to his brother Abdur Jabbar, they were raised as Christians, but Shams-Ud Din converted to Islam. He told ABC News that his brother said that he was visiting Egypt because it was "because it was cheap and beautiful." Chennai, Jan 6 : The Greater Chennai Police arrested AIADMK Students' Wing Secretary, Singai Ramachandran, along with others, while attempting to distribute black armbands to students of Anna University in protest against a recent sexual assault case. The protest was held despite the police denying permission for demonstrations. The AIADMK student wing had announced the protest against the sexual assault of a second-year Anna University engineering student, which occurred on December 23. The protest was scheduled to take place outside the Anna University campus at 8.30 a.m. However, the police had earlier warned the student wing leaders of arrest if they proceeded with the demonstration. Heavy police deployment has been reported at the university campus. The AIADMK has announced plans to raise the arrests of their student leaders, including State Secretary Singai Ramachandran, in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, which begins its session in the day. The assault occurred on December 23 when a second-year engineering student and her male friend, a senior at the university, were sitting in a secluded area of the campus after attending a Christmas program. According to the victim's complaint, the accused attacked her male friend, brutally assaulting him, before dragging her into nearby shrubs and raping her. The police acted swiftly and arrested a 37-year-old roadside biryani vendor, Gnanshekharan, for the crime. The incident has sparked outrage across the state. Tamil Nadu BJP President K. Annamalai staged a dramatic protest outside his residence in Coimbatore, where he flogged himself six times to symbolize what he called the deteriorating law and order situation in the state. He also announced plans to undertake a 48-day fast and visit all six holy abodes of Lord Murugan as part of his protest. Annamalai criticised the Tamil Nadu Police for leaking the FIR of the case, which revealed the identity of the 19-year-old victim, a violation of her privacy. He also alleged that the accused, Gnanshekharan, was not included in the police's rowdy list despite having over 20 prior cases against him. He claimed this was due to the accused's connections with leaders of the ruling DMK party. The BJP chief, a former IPS officer, presented evidence that the accused was a functionary of the DMK. He accused the party of attempting to divert attention from Tamil Nadu's law and order issues by fabricating a narrative around a North-South divide. The National Commission for Women (NCW) has announced plans to submit a detailed report on the incident to the Centre. NCW member Mamta Kumari visited Anna University to investigate the case. "We visited every corner of Anna University and conducted a thorough investigation. We met with the affected girl and her family to gather all the necessary information. We also met the Governor of Tamil Nadu to discuss the matter," Mamta Kumari stated. She further added, "A detailed report will be submitted to the Central government through the NCW. Whoever is found guilty will face strict punishment." Mumbai, Jan 6 : Actress-filmmaker and parliamentarian Kangana Ranaut's film "Emergency" is all set to hit the screens on January 17 and she says that the story isn't just about a controversial leader as it delves into themes that remain profoundly relevant today. Mumbai, Jan 6 (IANS) Actress-filmmaker and parliamentarian Kangana Ranaut's film "Emergency" is all set to hit the screens on January 17 and she says that the story isn't just about a controversial leader as it delves into themes that remain profoundly relevant today. The new trailer, which was dropped on Monday morning, delivers even more intensity and political firepower than the first, capturing the tumultuous days of 1975 and former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's infamous declaration, "Indira is India." Kangana Ranaut says, "After a long journey filled with challenges, I'm glad that our film Emergency will finally hit the big screen on 17th January. This story isn't just about a controversial leader; it delves into themes that remain profoundly relevant today, making the journey both difficult and significant." The film brings to life the characters of Jayaprakash Narayan's fiery protests to young Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, Pupul Jayakar, and Jagjivan Ram in the gripping drama. Kangana added: "Releasing just a week before Republic Day, it's the perfect time to reflect on the resilience of our Constitution and experience the film with your loved ones." Producer Umesh KR Bansal says, "As we mark 50 years since the 1975 Emergency, this film isn't just a historical retellingit's a reflection on the resilience of democracy and a tribute to those who fought to protect it." "Emergency is a cinematic milestone that challenges audiences to question, engage, and remember the cost of freedom," he added. Written, directed, and headlined by Kangana herself, Emergency also features a stellar cast, including Anupam Kher, Mahima Chaudhary, Milind Soman, Shreyas Talpade, Vishak Nair, and the late Satish Kaushik in his final performance. Produced by Zee Studios, Manikarnika Films, and Renu Pitti, with music by Sanchit Balhara and G.V. Prakash Kumar, the film is set to hit theaters on January 17, 2025. New Delhi, Jan 6 : External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Monday met US National Security Advisor (NSA) Jake Sullivan in New Delhi to discuss a wide range of strategic, regional, and bilateral issues. The meeting took place as Sullivan, the outgoing US NSA, embarked on a two-day visit to India, concluding one of the last high-profile engagements of the Biden administration before the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States on January 20. Sullivan's visit is aimed at reviewing the India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET), a significant partnership framework to expand strategic ties between the two nations. His itinerary includes meetings with NSA Ajit Doval and a visit to the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, where he will interact with young Indian entrepreneurs and deliver a speech on the bilateral innovation alliance under iCET. In his discussions with Doval, Sullivan is expected to delve into the implementation of iCET initiatives. These include cooperation in areas such as space, defence, strategic technology, and shared security priorities in the Indo-Pacific region. Both NSAs have previously stressed the transformative potential of iCET in strengthening the India-US partnership. During a roundtable in June 2024, NSA Doval had underscored the importance of staying at the forefront of emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), semiconductors, and biotechnology, to protect shared value systems. "iCET has achieved more than what we could imagine," Doval remarked, highlighting progress in the defence innovation roadmap and the burgeoning semiconductor industry. Sullivan had echoed similar sentiments, identifying innovation, production, and deployment as the three pillars of the technology partnership and emphasising the importance of government support for private sector initiatives. The visit follows EAM Jaishankar's recent six-day trip to the US, during which he met several senior officials of the Biden administration, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Jake Sullivan. The meetings reviewed the progress of the India-US partnership over the past four years. "Good to meet US NSA Jake Sullivan in Washington DC this morning. A wide-ranging discussion on the progress of the India-US strategic partnership. Also exchanged views on current regional and global developments," Jaishankar posted on X after their meeting. The iCET, unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joe Biden in May 2022, has been lauded as a defining element of the India-US strategic relationship, driving advancements in critical sectors such as defence, semiconductors, and Artificial Intelligence. As Sullivan wraps up his visit, the discussions are expected to set the stage for continued collaboration under the Trump administration, with both nations poised to deepen their strategic and technological ties. Kochi, Jan 6 : The Kerala High Court on Monday dismissed a petition seeking a CBI probe into the death of Kannur Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Naveen Babu, who was found hanging at his official residence on October 15. Minutes after the verdict, Babuas wife, K. Manjusha, announced plans to appeal the decision. "This is not the end. We will file an appeal with the High Court division bench," Manjusha said. Babu's brother, Praveen, expressed disappointment with the ruling. "We are not satisfied. While the court has directed a DIG of Police to monitor the investigation with periodic reviews, we expected a CBI probe. We will now approach the division bench or even the Supreme Court if necessary," he said. The Pinarayi Vijayan-led state government, which had initially pledged support to Babuas family, opposed the demand for a CBI probe during court proceedings. Naveen Babu, a reputed and upright officer, was found dead a day after his official farewell from Kannur. The controversy began when P.P. Divya, Kannur District Panchayat President and a CPI(M) leader, attended Babuas farewell event uninvited and accused him of corruption. The family alleged that Divyaas remarks were politically motivated and caused immense distress to Babu. Divya, who was later arrested and briefly jailed in connection with the case, resigned from her position amidst mounting criticism. Manjusha's petition for a CBI probe cited irregularities in the investigation. Her counsel argued that the inquest and postmortem were conducted hastily, without the family's presence. Forceful ligature marks were found on Babuas neck, requiring scientific examination. Divyaas strong political connections might hinder a fair investigation by the state police. The Kerala government opposed the plea, asserting that the state police's ongoing investigation was impartial and based on evidence. The governmentas counsel argued that the demand for a CBI probe relied on assumptions without substantial proof. Divyaas corruption allegations against Babu stemmed from a delay in issuing a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for a petrol pump application by T.V. Prasanth, an electrician at the Kannur Medical College. Notably, Prasanth was reportedly a colleague of Divyaas husband, raising suspicions about personal motives behind the accusations. Amid the uproar following Babuas death, Divya went into hiding but was arrested on October 29 after her anticipatory bail plea was rejected. She was released on bail on November 8. Chennai, Jan 6 : Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi walked out of the state Legislative Assembly immediately after the session commenced in protest against the National Anthem not being played in the House. He reminded the Assembly of its constitutional responsibility to sing the National Anthem and even urged the Chief Minister to ensure this protocol. However, only the Thamizh Thai Vazhthu (the state song) was sung. In a statement, Tamil Nadu Raj Bhavan said that the Constitution of India and the National Anthem were once again insulted in the Tamil Nadu Assembly. "Respecting the National Anthem is among the first fundamental duties enshrined in our Constitution. It is sung or played in Parliament at the beginning and end of the President's address. Similarly, it is sung in all state legislatures at the beginning and end of the Governor's address. Today, upon the Governor's arrival, only the Thamizh Thai Vazhthu was sung," the statement said. The Governor respectfully reminded the House of its constitutional duty and fervently appealed to the Chief Minister, who is the Leader of the House, and the Speaker to sing the National Anthem. However, the Assembly "stubbornly refused," according to the Raj Bhavan. "Not wanting to be a party to such brazen disrespect to the Constitution and the National Anthem, the Governor, in deep anguish, left the House," the statement added. This incident is reminiscent of February 2024, when the Governor walked out of the Tamil Nadu Assembly on the first day of the session. At the time, the Raj Bhavan had stated: "My repeated requests and advice to show due respect to the National Anthem and play it at the beginning and end of the address have been ignored. This address contains numerous passages with which I strongly disagree on factual and moral grounds. Lending my voice to them would constitute a constitutional travesty. Hence, with respect to the House, I conclude my address. I wish this House a productive and healthy discussion for the good of the people." The Governor had left the Assembly without waiting for the customary singing of the National Anthem. Responding to the incident, Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker M. Appavu had stated on February 11, 2024, that "The National Anthem is played last (on the day of the Governor's address)," citing Tamil Nadu Assembly rules. The rift between the Governor and the state government is not new. In January 2023, during the first Assembly session of the year, Governor R.N. Ravi walked out of the House following a dispute. Trouble arose when the Governor skipped a paragraph in his address that referred to national and regional stalwarts and the "Dravidian Model of Governance". Paragraph 65, which the Governor omitted, read: "Following the principles and ideals of stalwarts like Thanthai Periyar, Annal Ambedkar, Perunthalaivar Kamarajar, Perarignar Anna, and Muthamizh Arignar Kalaignar, this government has been delivering the much-acclaimed Dravidian Model of Governance to its people." This led to an unprecedented standoff between the Governor and the Tamil Nadu government, setting the stage for repeated confrontations in subsequent years. New Delhi/Chandigarh, Jan 6 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday, paid tributes to the 10th Sikh master, Sri Guru Gobind Singh, on his Parkash Utsav. The PM said "Guru Gobind Singh-ji was a warrior, poet and spiritual leader who fought against injustice, casteism, and inequality. His creation of the Khalsa Panth and supreme sacrifice for humanity continues to inspire the values of bravery, peace and justice in India". "I bow to Sri Guru Gobind Singh-ji on his Prakash Utsav. His thoughts inspire us to build a society that is progressive, prosperous, and compassionate," PM Modi wrote on X. Guru Gobind Singh, who established the Khalsa Panth, was born in Patna Sahib in 1666. Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator, Gulab Chand Kataria, in a message on the Gurpurab, called upon the people to rededicate themselves to the ideals and goals set by the great Guru and work for creating a harmonious society, based on values of humanism and secularism. The Governor said Guru Gobind Singh, a saint soldier, symbolized the virtues of truth, righteousness, and universal brotherhood. He was a great warrior and launched a crusade against social injustice and tyranny of the rulers of those times. Guru Gobind Singh, who sacrificed his four sons, father, and mother to preserve human and secular values, is rare in the annals of mankind. He appealed to the people to strive in unison to carve out a healthy and harmonious society by following the precious legacy of the tenth Guru and celebrating the occasion irrespective of caste, creed, and religion. In a message on 'Parkash Purab' of the 10th Sikh Guru, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said Guru Gobind Singh preached and practiced the ethos of love, oneness of mankind, and universal brotherhood throughout his life. Bengaluru, Jan 6 : Most wanted Maoists operating in deep jungles of Western Ghats, hilly and coastal region of Karnataka have decided to lay down their arms and join the mainstream following the appeal by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah-led Karnataka Congress government. According to sources, the Maoists have taken the decision following the encounter of Vikram Gowda and the continuous combing operations in the Western Ghat region by the Anti-Naxal Force (ANF) and the Karnataka Police. Sources said that top leaders Mundagaru Latha who leads the Tunga Naxal Wing in the state; Sundari, Vanajakshi, Jeesha, the most wanted Maoists of south India; K. Vasantha from Andhra Pradesh and Mareppa Aroli have decided to surrender and lay down their arms. Maoist leader Sundari's brother Anand, who was also a Naxal and returned to the mainstream, stated, "They will welcome her home if she decides to lay down arms. Let her and associates stop the struggle and live like common people. It's 17 years since she had gone away from home. We will be happy if she comes back to us." "Sundari, surrender before the government and come back home," he appealed in Kutlur of Mangaluru district. The surrender procedure will happen in two to three days, sources confirmed. The sources also revealed that the Maoists had written a letter in this regard to the Citizen's Forum, a progressive organisation and the members of the forum have discussed the matter already with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. CM Siddaramaiah welcomed the proposal and gave the green signal for authorities to start the surrender procedures. The Maoists have demanded that the surrender process should take place in a dignified manner and that their self-respect should not be harmed. They have also demanded that they should not be prevented from exercising their rights under a democratic system. The Maoists have also demanded that they should not be made to languish in prisons. The 'false' cases against them should be closed and cooperation has to be extended for them after surrender to obtain bail. It has also been demanded that all cases must be brought under one court and trial has to be expedited. They have also demanded financial support from the government to shape their lives. The package has to be applied to other surrendered Maoists who are presently in prison. They have also sought clarification on whether Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala states will take one stand on the matter. The Maoists have also demanded a judicial investigation of the Vikram Gowda encounter. Chennai, Jan 6 : The first day of the Tamil Nadu Assembly session witnessed uproarious scenes as opposition AIADMK members were evicted from the House after raising the issue of the Anna University sexual assault case. AIADMK General Secretary and Leader of Opposition Edappadi K. Palaniswami led his party MLAs to the House wearing badges that read "Yaar Antha Sir?" (Who is that Sir?), a reference to the recent Anna University sexual assault case. Palaniswami and other AIADMK MLAs raised slogans and demanded an explanation from the DMK government regarding the phrase "Who is that Sir?" This led to chaotic scenes, culminating in the forcible removal of AIADMK legislators from the House. The sexual assault incident occurred on December 23 when a second-year engineering student and her male friend, a senior at Anna University, were sitting in a secluded area of the campus after attending a Christmas programme. According to the victim's complaint, the accused attacked her male friend, brutally assaulting him, before dragging her into nearby shrubs and raping her. The police acted swiftly, arresting a 37-year-old roadside biryani vendor, Gnanshekharan, in connection with the crime. Adding to the political tension, the Greater Chennai police arrested AIADMK Students' Wing Secretary, Singai Ramachandran, and others while they attempted to distribute black armbands to students of Anna University in protest against the sexual assault. The protest had been planned despite the police denying permission for demonstrations. The AIADMK student body had announced a protest against the assault, scheduled to take place outside the Anna University campus at 8.30 a.m. on January 6. However, police warned the student leaders of arrest if the demonstration went ahead. On Monday morning, heavy police deployment was reported at the university campus, and Singai Ramachandran was taken into custody. The AIADMK announced its intention to raise the arrests of their student leaders, including Singai Ramachandran, during the Assembly session. Meanwhile, in a dramatic turn of events, Governor R.N. Ravi walked out of the inaugural session of the Assembly, accusing Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and Speaker M. Appavu of disrespecting the Constitution and the National Anthem. The Raj Bhavan alleged that the Tamil Nadu Assembly once again insulted the "Constitution of Bharat" and the National Anthem by not singing it. Going on vacation can often be expensive, but Australian couple Christopher Oyala and Andrew Redfern dispel this myth. The couple has repeatedly vacationed without paying a single penny for accommodation. They traveled to the UK, USA, New Zealand and Mexico, taking care of strangers' homes. ADVERTISIMENT According to The Sun, the man runs a Facebook house-sitting group called House Sitting World and claims it's a win-win situation for both parties. Instead of paying for the service, the system is built on trust between strangers. It's also a budget-friendly option for families, especially during the holiday season when campgrounds are booked up and hotels charge peak seasonal prices. "Taking care of your home can open doors to traveling the world that you never knew you could," added Oyala. Meanwhile, the pair recommends that you always ask homeowners about pets and their daily routines. This is an important point to know in advance what to expect. Especially if you are planning an active vacation and visiting museums or the beach. New Delhi, Jan 6 : Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) National Coordinator Akash Anand launched a scathing attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Monday. Speaking at a rally in the Kondli constituency ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, Akash Anand likened Kejriwal's unfulfilled promises to "Draupadi's saree," saying they stretch endlessly but are never fulfilled. New Delhi, Jan 6 (IANS) Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) National Coordinator Akash Anand launched a scathing attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Monday. Speaking at a rally in the Kondli constituency ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, Akash Anand likened Kejriwal's unfulfilled promises to "Draupadi's saree," saying they stretch endlessly but are never fulfilled. Anand's controversial comment has sparked sharp reactions, with Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit accusing Kejriwal of mismanagement and branding his government as "fraudulent." Reacting to Akash Anand's remarks, Sandeep Dikshit said, "No matter which party it is, ever since we started highlighting the failures of the Aam Aadmi Party one by one in Delhi, other parties like the BJP and others have begun raising the same issues. The Congress has always prioritised development issues in Delhi, be it roads, education, the environment, health, DTC buses, or the economy." Dikshit further alleged widespread corruption under Kejriwal's leadership, stating, "For the last 10-15 days, we have been vocally exposing Kejriwal's mismanagement and his hollow promises. Even the INDIA bloc parties, which once considered him a capable administrator, are realising the fraudulence of his governance. His government has survived only on lies and advertisements." Addressing BSP workers in East Delhi's Kondli Assembly constituency, Akash Anand did not hold back in his critique of Kejriwal. "Arvind Kejriwal is anti-Constitution and anti-Ambedkar," he claimed, accusing the former Delhi Chief Minister of betraying the people with promises that were never fulfilled. In his now-controversial statement, Anand remarked, "Kejriwal's promises are like Draupadi's saree, no matter how much you pull, it never ends. These promises will never be fulfilled." He alleged that Kejriwal's governance lacks sincerity and accountability, failing to deliver on the aspirations of Delhi's citizens. With both the BSP and Congress stepping up their criticism of the AAP, the political battle for Delhi is intensifying and raising questions about the unity of the Opposition INDIA bloc. Hyderabad, Jan 6 : Amid high drama, Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president K.T. Rama Rao returned from the Telangana Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) office without appearing before investigating officials in the Formula E race case after his lawyer was not allowed to be present during the interrogation. The former minister, accompanied by his lawyer, reached the ACB headquarters in Banjara Hills but the police stopped his car saying there was no permission for the lawyer's presence with KTR who insisted that he has a right to bring his lawyer with him. He spoke to police officials while sitting in the car. When his lawyer was not permitted, the BRS leader handed over a written statement to the ACB officials and left from there. The BRS working president later reached party headquarters, the Telangana Bhavan, and said he would decide his future course of action after the Telangana High Court will pronounce its orders on his quash petition. Earlier talking to media persons outside the ACB office, he said he wanted the presence of his lawyer as he suspected a conspiracy by the government to frame him. He said that police after calling BRS leader Patnam Narender Reddy for questioning in Lagacherla incident had made a false claim that he gave a confession statement in which he named KTR. KTR also alleged that the Revanth Reddy government had hatched a conspiracy to raid his house after calling him for questioning at the ACB office. He said he suspected that the government may implicate him and malign him through the raid. The ACB last month booked a case against KTR, former Special Chief Secretary to the Government, Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MA&UD) department Arvind Kumar, and former Chief Engineer of Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) B.L.N. Reddy for alleged Rs 54.88 crore irregularities in Formula-E deal. The FIR was registered on a complaint by Principal Secretary to the Government, MA&UD department M. Dana Kishore, who stated that foreign remittances were made without prior approvals of the relevant regulatory authorities, which resulted in an additional tax burden to HMDA to the tune of Rs.8.06 crore. The complainant also alleged that the payment was made while the Model Code of Conduct was in effect for the elections to the State Legislative Assembly without any prior approval of the Election Commission of India. The FIR was registered under the Prevention of Corruption Act as well as under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 409 (criminal breach of trust) and 120B (criminal conspiracy). KTR, who was Municipal Administration Minister during the previous BRS regime, has also been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on January 7 in connection with the Formula E case over alleged money laundering charges. The ED has also asked Arvind Kumar and BLN Reddy to appear before the agency on January 8 and 9 respectively. Denying the allegations of corruption, KTR has filed a quash petition in the Telangana High Court which on December 31 reserved its orders on the quash petition and directed the ACB not to arrest him till the orders are pronounced. Bengaluru, Jan 6 : The Karnataka government on Monday dismissed Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H. D. Kumaraswamy's objections on the issue of protocol violation. Kumaraswamy had expressed his displeasure after he was not provided with the official vehicle and was asked to use former MP Sumalatha Ambareesh's car. State Minister for Agriculture N. Chaluvarayaswamy, said on Monday that the Congress government finds it hard to believe Kumaraswamy's allegations. "Kumaraswamy refused to use the car of former Mandya MP Sumalatha Ambareesh. What can we do? We don't understand why Kumaraswamy is unwilling to use the vehicle which was used by former MP and senior BJP leader Sumalatha Ambareesh," the minister said. "We have never refused to provide a car to Kumaraswamy. He himself rejected the vehicle offered by the government," Chaluvarayaswamy claimed. The state Minister further explained, "It took us a year to get a new car. I used the old vehicle utilized by the former minister until I got the new one. When I was an MP, I used the car that had been used by the late former MP Ambareesh. Later, I received a new car. It is customary to provide the old car to the new MP initially, and subsequently, the cabinet grants approval for new vehicles." Speaking to the media in Mandya on Saturday, Union Minister Kumaraswamy stated, "The state government has not provided a car till now. As a result, I am travelling in a vehicle assigned to the Central government, which I received from the Heavy Industries Department." When asked whether he felt neglected by the state government, Kumaraswamy replied that the Congress-led Karnataka government should address the issue. Sumalatha Ambareesh, a senior BJP leader, previously represented the Mandya Lok Sabha seat, which is now held by Union Minister Kumaraswamy. Sumalatha had registered a resounding victory against Kumaraswamy's son, Nikhil Kumaraswamy, in the 2019 elections. Minister Chaluvarayaswamy was earlier the right-hand man of former CM Kumaraswamy. However, he quit the JD(S) party and joined the Congress party questioning the dominance of former PM H.D. Deve Gowda's family members. Bengaluru, Jan 6 : A tragic incident of a software professional and his wife ending their life after killing their two toddlers, was reported from Bengaluru on Monday. The shocking incident had taken place in the limits of Sadashivanagar police station in Bengaluru. The deceased have been identified as 38-year-old Anoop, a software professional from Uttar Pradesh, his wife 35-year-old Raakhi, their children five-year-old Anupriya and two-year-old Priyansh. The domestic help told the police that since the coupleas eldest kid Anupriya was a child with special needs, the young parents were distraught. According to police, Anoop worked as a software consultant with a private company. The house help told the police that till Saturday night things had seemed normal and the couple seemed happy. The murder-cum-suicide came to light when the house help came on Monday morning and did not get any response from the family. Police suspect that depressed by Anupriyaas condition the couple had taken the decision to end their lives and kill their children before that. They had first killed their children by poisoning their food and later hanged themselves at their residence. The family had three maids and Anoop had asked them to come early on Monday as they were planning to visit Pondicherry city. The couple had got the packing done by the staff on Sunday itself, police said. Two of the staff were hired for cooking and one was kept to take care of the children. The helpers were each getting a salary of Rs 15,000 per month as the family was financially sound. However, the Sadashivanagar police are exploring all angles and investigating whether the family was debt-ridden or going through a rough financial patch. On August 3, 2023, a shocking incident of a 31-year-old software professional ending his life after killing his wife and two daughters was reported in Kadugodi police station limits of Bengaluru. The deceased techie was identified as Veerarjuna Vijay from Andhra Pradesh. He had killed his wife Hemavathi (29) and his two infant daughters aged 18 months and 8 months respectively. According to police, the incident had come to light when neighbours complained to the police that a foul smell was emanating from the apartment where the family lived. In another incident, a 24-year-old techie working with a reputed IT company had committed suicide by inhaling helium gas in a hotel in Bengaluru on August 20, 2024. New Delhi, Jan 6 : The Delhi Congress on Monday announced the 'Pyari Didi Yojana' to give monthly financial assistance of Rs 2,500 to all eligible women in the city if it comes to power in the upcoming Assembly elections. To impress Delhi voters, the party also invited Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar to the media briefing where he highlighted the success of a similar scheme in his state and called it a role model even for the BJP-ruled states. "The 'Pyari Didi Yojana' will be approved in the very first Cabinet meeting of the Congress after it wins in Delhi," said Shivakumar, seeking votes for the Congress based on the Karnataka model. He shared details of the welfare model of the Congress implemented in his state, including monthly financial assistance to women and free travel for women in public buses. "The Congress has delivered whatever promise it has made in any part of the country," said Shivakumar, assuring Delhi women of the promised financial assistance. He said the BJP has been mocking Congress' guarantees claiming that the Karnataka government will go bankrupt, but the saffron party later copied the same model in states like Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Haryana. "The financial assistance that the Congress is giving is meant to help people fight price rise and offer relief to troubled families," he said, highlighting that the Congress has served the country for decades and is confident of returning to power in Delhi. Qazi Nizamuddin, AICC in charge of the Delhi Congress unit, said, "The Congress has its credibility and today it is launching its first social scheme." The Congress is known for social welfare while the BJP has only been making false promises, including that of depositing Rs 15 lakh to each citizen's bank account or generating jobs. Calling the Rs 2,000 monthly assistance scheme "Gruha Lakshmi" in Karnataka a "success story", he highlighted that the Congress government in the southern state approved the social welfare schemes in its first Cabinet meeting. Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav also launched a tagline for the election campaign, "Hogi har zaroorat puri, Congress hai zaroori" (Congress is indispensable for fulfilling all basic needs)." Yadav said over 1.2 crore women in Karnataka are getting Rs 2,000 in their bank accounts every month under the Gruha Lakshmi scheme, 10 kg rice is being given free to 4 crore people in Karnataka and 1.89 lakh jobless youth are benefitting from Rs 216.93 crore being spent on schemes meant for them. "Each family in Karnataka is saving around Rs 4,000-5,000 every month, bringing a change in their lives, and schemes like these will be implemented in Delhi as well," he said, highlighting that Congress has fulfilled its guarantees in Karnataka, Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand and did so earlier in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. He hit out at AAP's former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, without naming him, for selling dreams to people but not doing anything to improve infrastructure in the city, including schools, power, and water. Calling Kejriwal a "dream seller", Yadav said the AAP has also failed to fight corruption as it had promised. Mumbai, Jan 6 : An all-party delegation on Monday met Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan regarding the Beed Sarpanch murder case, demanding the resignation of NCP Minister Dhananjay Munde from the cabinet. The delegation told the Governor that considering the involvement and possible interference in the Santosh Deshmukh murder case (Sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed district), Munde should immediately resign. The delegation also demanded that the feeling of the Rule of Law must be strengthened. For that, a case of murder under BNS 103 ( old IPC 302) must be immediately registered against Walmik Karad, the mastermind of the kidnapping, extortion and murder case and the case should be conducted in a fast-track court. Further, the delegation in its representation to the Governor, also demanded that the accountability of law enforcement officials should be ensured and, therefore, action should be taken against police personnel who neglected their duties. The delegation urged the Governor to take initiatives to restore public confidence and safety of residents in the Beed district and ultimately to curb extortion and hooliganism. The delegation comprised Leader of Opposition in the state council Ambadas Danve, former MP Chhatrapati Sambhajiraje, Beed MP (NCP-SP) Bajrang Sonawane, Beed legislator Sandeep Kshirsagar (NCP-SP), Ashti legislator (BJP) Suresh Dhas and Congress MLA Vijay Wadettiwar among others. "The gruesome murder of Santosh Deshmukh and the ongoing extortionist activities underline a grave failure of law enforcement in Bed. The biased handling of this case and the state government's alleged support for the accused have eroded public trust," claimed the delegation. The delegation sought the Governor's intervention considering recent developments in the Santosh Deshmukh murder case. "On December 31, 2024, Walmik Karad announced his surrender through a dramatic video on social media. Hundreds of people gathered at the CID headquarters in Pune during his surrender, creating chaos. The accused continues to receive favourable treatment, with public support orchestrated by influential figures. The lack of impartiality in the investigation is evident. Certain SIT members are allegedly influenced by the accused," said the delegation. "The delegation pointed out that Beed district, which has historically been recognised as a region of peace-loving, progressive citizens, has seen an alarming rise in terror-driven activities, allegedly motivated by political selfishness and the misuse of political power. Extortion, kidnappings, and other heinous crimes have become rampant, and the police and district administration seem complicit due to political influence. The inhuman torture and brutal killing of Santosh Deshmukh, Sarpanch of Massajog, exemplify the deteriorating law and order situation in Beed," the delegation said. According to the delegation, the abduction, torture, and gruesome murder of Deshmukh, coupled with the alleged negligence and bias of the police, have sparked unrest across the Beed district and pose a serious threat to public safety statewide. Seoul, Jan 6 : South Korea's Constitutional Court plans to hold its first pretrial hearing on the impeachment trial of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on January 13, judicial officials said on Monday. The court has informed the legal representatives of the National Assembly and the Prime Minister that it would hold the first preparatory hearing on Han's impeachment at 4 p.m. next on Monday, according to the officials. The Opposition-dominated National Assembly voted to impeach Han on December 27, less than two weeks after he took over as acting president due to President Yoon Suk Yeol's own impeachment over his short-lived imposition of martial law. The hearing will discuss witness and evidence selection among other preparatory procedures, while Han will not be required to attend it. Such sessions usually take place two to three times before oral arguments begin. The main Opposition Democratic Party has listed Han's alleged involvement in Yoon's martial law imposition and his refusal to appoint new Constitutional Court justices as grounds for his impeachment. The ruling People Power Party has called Han's impeachment invalid, filing an injunction for its suspension to the Constitutional Court, Yonhap news agency reported. Earlier in the day, South Korea's anti-corruption agency asked the police to take over the execution of a warrant to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol over his failed martial law bid, both sides said. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) made the request in an official letter late on Sunday, with one day left until the warrant's expiration. "The CIO sent us an official letter requesting our cooperation without prior consultation," a police official told Yonhap News Agency. "We are internally conducting a legal review." The CIO had halted its execution of the warrant last Friday after an hours-long standoff with presidential security staff at the presidential residence. The agency had been working with the police and the Defence ministry's investigation unit to conduct a joint probe into Yoon's short-lived imposition of martial law on December 3. With the warrant set to expire at midnight, the CIO was expected to make a second attempt at detaining Yoon or request an extension, among other options. Sources said the CIO's letter was prompting complaints within the police that the agency was trying to shift its responsibilities after passively executing the warrant last Friday. Yoon's legal team has rejected the warrant as illegal and invalid, noting that the CIO is not technically authorised to investigate the charges of insurrection that Yoon faces over his martial law decree. Seoul, Jan 6 : North Korea fired a suspected hypersonic missile into the East Sea on Monday, the South Korean military said, marking its first provocation in the new year ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration. The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said it detected the launch of a suspected intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) at about 12 p.m. from the Pyongyang area and it flew some 1,100 kilometres before splashing into the waters. While the missile's flight range fell short of the 3,000 to 5,500 km usually covered by IRBMs, it is suspected to have characteristics similar to North Korea's intermediate-range hypersonic missiles launched in January and April last year, a JCS official said. If confirmed to be a hypersonic missile, it would be the farthest range travelled by a North Korean missile of its kind. The latest launch took place as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was visiting Seoul for talks on efforts to deter North Korean threats amid political turmoil in South Korea stemming from President Yoon Suk Yeol's failed martial law bid. South Korean officials have warned the North could take advantage of the political crisis by engaging in military activity and ratchet up cross-border tensions, Yonhap news agency reported. "Under a firm South Korea-US combined Defence posture, our military will closely monitor various North Korean activities so that it does not misjudge the current security situation," the JCS said in a message to reporters, while denouncing the launch as a "clear provocation." The latest saber-rattling also came two weeks before Trump takes office on January 20. The North last fired multiple short-range ballistic missiles into the East Sea on November 5, just ahead of the US presidential election. In a year-end party meeting, North Korea declared it would carry out the "toughest" counteraction strategy toward the US, claiming military cooperation among South Korea, the US and Japan has expanded into a "military bloc for aggression." Wonderful to see Indian Railways' transformation in last 10 years: Erik Solheim. Image Source: IANS News New Delhi, Jan 6 : Erik Solheim, former Minister of Climate and Environment of Norway, said on Monday it has been wonderful to observe the improvement of Indian Railways in the last 10 years under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as the government laid the foundation stones of multiple projects, further strengthening the country's railway infrastructure. Speaking to IANS, Solheim said the Indian Railways is improving operations by the day, connecting millions in newer, far-flung areas, and becoming a modern, 21st-century transportation system. "Rail is the safest, most people-centred and environment-friendly way of transporting people, so this is so heartening to see Indian Railways taking a big leap under a dynamic government," Solheim noted. He further stated that old stations and platforms are being upgraded and new stations are being constructed at a great speed. "For example, the Cuttack railway station in Odisha looks like one of the most modern airports in the world," he mentioned. High-speed trains such as Vande Bharat, Amrit Bharat, and Namo Bharat have become benchmarks for Indian Railways. PM Modi on Monday inaugurated and laid the foundation stones of multiple railway projects through video conferencing. Among the key projects, PM Modi inaugurated the new Jammu Railway Division, marking a significant step towards enhanced connectivity in the region. He also inaugurated the Charlapalli New Terminal Station in Telangana and laid the foundation stone of the Rayagada Railway Division Building of the East Coast Railway. "This is a significant achievement. The metro network in India has now crossed over 1,000 kilometres," said PM Modi. According to Solheim, Vande Bharat trains are providing high-quality transportation between main cities at a speed of up to 180 kilometres per hour. "It will soon touch the speed of 200 km per hour. In 2026, the new bullet train between Ahmedabad and Mumbai is slated to be operational with stations in Surat and Vadodara and a few other places," the veteran diplomat told IANS. Washington, Jan 6 : Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei strongly condemned airstrikes by the US-led navy coalition on northern Yemen as well as a lethal attack in southwestern Pakistan. The "ongoing and repeated military aggression" by the United States, Britain, and Israel against Yemen "constitute a clear violation of Yemen's national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and contradict the principles of international law and the United Nations Charter," Baghaei said in a statement on Sunday. "These aggressive actions would lead to increased insecurity and instability in the West Asia region," he added. A US-led navy coalition launched three airstrikes on Yemen's northern province of Saada on Sunday morning, reports Xinhua news agency, quoting the Houthi-run al-Masirah TV. The strikes targeted a military site of the Houthi group in the city, residents said on social media. The US military has yet to comment on the claim. The Houthi group, which controls much of northern Yemen, has been launching regular rocket and drone attacks against Israel and disrupting "Israeli-linked" shipping in the Red Sea since November 2023 in support of Palestinians. In response, the US-British navy coalition stationed in the area has regularly conducted air raids and strikes against Houthi targets to deter the group. In a separate statement, Baghaei expressed sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims, the government, and the people of Pakistan in light of the lethal attack in Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province. He stressed "the need to strengthen efforts to prevent and combat terrorism," read the statement. At least four people were killed and 32 others injured in an explosion in Balochistan on Saturday, local media and officials said. The incident happened in the Turbat district of the province, where a convoy was attacked, and a bus in it was struck during the assault, officials told Xinhua on condition of anonymity. The banned Balochistan Liberation Army claimed responsibility for the attack in a post on social media, while the Pakistani authorities have not confirmed the attack. Are you going on vacation in a few weeks and have no one to leave your cat or dog with? Then it's time to think about what to do with the animal next. ADVERTISIMENT OBOZREVATEL has selected life hacks that will help you solve the situation with maximum comfort for your pet. 1. Analyze the animal's health and behavior Not every dog or cat will be able to tolerate an airplane flight or a long train ride. Not only is it a lot of stress, which can worsen your pet's health, but it's also a huge strain on the body. Try to answer the following questions: How does the animal tolerate temperature changes? Can it stay without its owner for a long time? Are there any problems with the functioning of internal organs? Does its age allow it to quickly adapt to new conditions? How much does its behavior change when surrounded by other animals and strangers? If at least one of these points is in doubt, it is better to leave your pet at home. If you don't know anyone who can take it to their home or visit it daily, contact specialized services. There are already pet hotels or temporary shelters that can help you in this situation. ADVERTISIMENT 2. Learn the rules for transporting pets across borders Not all countries allow people with pets to travel freely. For example, in the UK, a cat or dog may be quarantined if there is a suspicion that all the conditions for entering the country with animals are not met. And you can't take small four-legged friends under the age of 3 months to France. If you are going to travel by train or plane, go to the carrier's website and study all the specified rules regarding animals in detail. In most cases, you will have to pay extra for your pet and provide it with a carrier, leash, and sometimes even a muzzle. You also need to make sure that the passengers who will be with you are safe. ADVERTISIMENT 3. Prepare all necessary documents and get vaccinated Not only people need a vaccination certificate to travel nowadays. Animals will not be allowed on any airplane unless they have a passport with all the necessary vaccinations. Usually, the list is quite standard and includes 5-7 drugs that are given in one shot. By the way, this should be done not only before the trip. Such procedures are carried out annually to ensure the cat's long and healthy life. ADVERTISIMENT 4. Arrive at the airport and train station early Checking in animals for a flight takes much longer. It can usually take up to 2 hours to go through veterinary control and get a special pass. By the way, most airlines do not allow pets on board. They are transported separately in the luggage compartment to ensure the comfort of other passengers and to avoid unforeseen situations. After all, no one knows how even the calmest animal will behave in unusual conditions. 5. Prepare a first aid kit Anything can happen on the road. It is important to be prepared to provide first aid to your pet. To do this, consult your veterinarian and pack all the necessary medications with you. First of all, there should be sedatives, wound care products, antihistamines, and antidote pills. However, the most important thing is to take care of the animal's comfort. If you can't pay enough attention to your pet while traveling, it's best to find a way to leave it at home. Washington, Jan 6 : Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said that Hamas has not provided a name list of Israeli hostages to be released. "Hamas has not transferred a name list of (Israeli) hostages so far," Netanyahu's office said in a statement on Sunday, denying previous media reports, which, citing a Hamas official, said the group agreed to release 34 hostages. Meanwhile, Israel's state-owned media reported on Sunday that Mossad chief David Barnea will travel tomorrow to Qatar to take part in the ongoing Gaza ceasefire talks. On Thursday, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad movement said Palestinian factions need a week to prepare and deliver a list of Israeli hostages for exchange during the first phase of a possible ceasefire deal, reports Xinhua news agency, quoting Israel's state-owned Kan TV. Earlier on Saturday, Al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas, also released a video showing a female Israeli hostage who is being held in the Gaza Strip, demanding the Israeli government and army conclude a prisoner swap deal. "I am 19 years old ... I spent more than 450 days in captivity in Gaza, and everything suddenly stopped," said the hostage, identified as Liri Albag, in the video in Hebrew. "We are not a priority for our government or our army, and the world has begun to forget us; no one cares about us anymore," Albag added in the video, which has no specific date. Hamas confirmed on Friday that indirect negotiations with Israel have resumed in Doha, Qatar, with the goal of achieving a complete ceasefire in Gaza. Hamas has previously accused Israel of delaying the ceasefire deal and hostage exchange by setting new conditions. This is the first video published by Al-Qassam in 2025 about the hostages. New Delhi, Jan 6 : India on Monday condemned the recent Pakistani airstrikes on Afghanistan, emphasising that it is Islamabad's "old practice" to blame its neighbours for its own internal failures. "We have noted the media reports on airstrikes on Afghan civilians, including women and children, in which several precious lives have been lost," said Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), on Monday while responding to media queries regarding airstrikes on Afghan civilians. "We unequivocally condemn any attack on innocent civilians. It is an old practice of Pakistan to blame its neighbours for its own internal failures. We have also noted the response of an Afghan spokesperson in this regard," he added. On December 24, Pakistani air strikes inside Afghanistan resulted in the death of 46 people, including several women and children, inviting worldwide criticism and a stern warning from the current regime in the war-torn country. The airstrikes by Pakistani fighter jets on parts of Barmal district in Paktika province was the second instance in 2024 of Islamabad directly hitting "civilian areas" on Afghan territory. In March 2024, a similar strike had killed eight people, including three children. "Afghans will not forget the invasion of their territory, and Pakistani rulers should adopt a measured policy," said Acting Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, two days after the air strikes. During his speech at an event marking the 45th anniversary of the Soviet invasion, Muttaqi had strongly advised Pakistan to "learn from the fate of the Soviet Union and the United States", emphasising that Afghanistan will never accept invasions. He also called on the people of Pakistan to stop their rulers' wrong policies. Enayatullah Khwarazmi, the spokesperson for the Afghan Ministry of Defence, had stated that Pakistan must realise such arbitrary actions do not solve any problems. "The Islamic Emirate considers this brutal act a violation of all international principles and an outright aggression, and strongly condemns it. The Pakistani side must understand that such arbitrary actions are not a solution to any problem," the spokesperson was quoted as saying by Afghan news outlet Tolo news. Hamid Karzai, the former President of Afghanistan, while condemning the airstrikes of the Pakistani military forces in the "strongest terms", called it a blatant aggression and violation of Afghan sovereignty. Karzai said the tension in relations between the two countries was the product of Pakistan's wrong policies of strengthening extremism in the region and trying to weaken Afghanistan. He warned that civilized relations based on good neighbourliness would be in the interest of both countries. Hafiz Zia Ahmad, Pakistanas ChargA daAffaires in Kabul, was also called to the Afghan foreign ministry and issued a strong demarche. New Delhi, Jan 6 : With tears in her eyes, an emotionally disturbed Delhi Chief Minister Atishi on Monday hit out at BJP candidate from Kalkaji seat Ramesh Bidhuri for stooping so low to attack his 80-year-old educationist father. "He is seeking votes by abusing my father and not on his own performance in the constituency," Atishi alleged claiming that attacks on her father are very disturbing. Atishi's response to Bidhuri came during a press conference to allege a "voter scam" in the garb of deletion and addition of voters' names in the New Delhi Assembly constituency of Arvind Kejriwal. During a rally in Delhi, Ramesh Bidhuri stated, "Atishi has changed her father. She used to be Marlena, but now she is Singh. Her parents had filed a petition seeking clemency for Afzal Guru, the man responsible for killing young people." On the alleged "voter scam", CM Atishi said she wrote to the Chief Election Commissioner on Sunday and sought time for a meeting to share the details of the alleged "voter scam" being executed to vitiate the democratic process. "Between October 29 and January 2, applications have been filed for deletion of 6,167 voter names," she said, claiming 11 objectors, out of the total 84, have denied even filing any application for deletion of names of voters. "The role of the Election Commission's administration is also doubtful," she said, claiming that about 10,000 new voters or 10 per cent of voters have been added to the constituency's electoral rolls and 6,167 named or 5.7 per cent of names have been deleted. She said a probe should be conducted on who filed these forms when 11 objectors are themselves denying having done so. "We want the exercise of addition and deletion should be stopped till it is clear who filed Form 7 and from which cyber cafe," she said. AAP MP Sanjay Singh said the name of his wife Anita's name was also illegally deleted and alleged the BJP, which has conceded defeat even before elections, is resorting to "manipulation" and sheltering "bogus or ghost objectors". "I demand action against election officials who are allowing such wrongdoings," he said, claiming a woman named Madhu, who was cited by election officials as the objector in the case of deletion of his wife's name, has denied filing even a single Form 7. New Delhi, Jan 6 : One more case of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been detected in Gujarat on Monday, taking the tally to three cases in the country. A two-year-old child was reported to be infected from Chandkheda's area of Ahmedabad. The child, from Rajasthan, was admitted to a private hospital in Chandkheda after showing symptoms of cold and cough. The child is stable now, reports quoted civic officials as saying. This comes after the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Monday informed of two HMPV cases in two babies -- aged three- and eight-month-old -- in Bengaluru. The HMPV infection was detected via routine surveillance in a 3-month-old girl and an 8-month-old boy in Bengaluru. Both had a history of bronchopneumonia -- a form of pneumonia, a lung infection. Bronchopneumonia affects both the alveoli in the lungs and the bronchi. "Both cases were identified through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens, as part of ICMR's ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses across the country," the health ministry statement said. The ministry noted that while the baby girl "has been discharged", the baby boy "is now recovering". "It is important to note that neither of the affected patients have any history of international travel," the Ministry said. The Karnataka government has emphasised that the HMPV already exists in India, and the cases detected are the first in India. "We cannot call it the first case in the country. The virus already exists here. The individual may have been tested for this specific virus, and it has been detected, that's all," said Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, while speaking to the media, ahead of an emergency meeting on the matter. The Ministry stated that HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India. Cases of respiratory illnesses associated with HMPV have been reported in Malaysia and various countries, particularly in China. "Union Health Ministry is monitoring the situation through all available surveillance channels," it said noting that, "there has been no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases in the country". ICMR will continue to track trends in HMPV circulation throughout the year. Meanwhile, the ministry also reiterated that "India is well-equipped to handle any potential increase in respiratory illnesses and public health interventions can be deployed promptly if needed". HMPV was first discovered in 2001 and is part of the Pneumoviridae family along with the Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The symptoms commonly associated with HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. Patna, Jan 6 : Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has reiterated that he will remain in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) dismissing any possibility of aligning with other political groups. The CM was in Vaishali on Monday during his ongoing Pragati Yatra. While talking about his past decisions to switch alliances, he stated that such suggestions came from individuals who were subsequently removed. "The mistake was made twice, but now I will remain in NDA. Those who suggested changing alliances were removed," Kumar said. Reflecting on his longstanding ties with the NDA, he acknowledged the support of late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, highlighting collaborative efforts during their tenure. Earlier on January 2, RJD Chief Lalu Prasad Yadav said that his door was open for Nitish Kumar. Lalu earlier said, "My door is always open. Nitish Kumar should also keep his door open." On whether he would forgive Nitish Kumar if he returned, Lalu stated, "Forgiving has been my job. If he comes back, I will forgive him without any problem. Everyone will work together." During the Pragati Yatra in Vaishali, Kumar announced development schemes worth crores of rupees, underscoring the government's focus on grassroots development. CM Nitish Kumar highlighted the success of the Jeevika initiative, which empowers women through self-help groups. CM Kumar took pride in coining the name "Jeevika", a model later adopted nationally as "Ajeevika". He also said that such self-help groups under Jeevika are now in urban areas as well. It has been empowering women, leading to improved financial independence and confidence. "Earlier, women did not speak much; now they are confident and financially stable. Such groups were rare in Bihar before we expanded the programme," Kumar said. CM Nitish Kumar recalled his contributions to introducing self-help groups during his tenure at the Centre, emphasizing their role in empowering communities. He reaffirmed his government's commitment to promoting women's development through Jeevika and similar initiatives. New Delhi, Jan 6 : Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) senior leader and former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Monday launched a sharp critique of the Central government over the poor law and order situation in the national Capital. New Delhi, Jan 6 (IANS) Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) senior leader and former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Monday launched a sharp critique of the Central government over the poor law and order situation in the national Capital. Sisodia contrasted the Centre's responsibilities with its actions, pointing out that while Prime Minister Narendra Modi urges Delhiites to vote for the BJP, his government has failed to handle the only task entrusted to it -- ensuring security in the city. Referring to the recent shootout in Sangam Vihar on Sunday night due to a gang war, Sisodia highlighted the deteriorating law and order situation in Delhi. "Incidents of gang wars are increasing in the national Capital. Almost every day, bullets are being fired openly. In the Sangam Vihar incident last night, bullets were fired for an hour, leaving two people critically injured and three others wounded," he said. He accused the BJP-led Union government of neglecting Delhi's security while criticising the AAP's governance. "The Prime Minister abuses Arvind Kejriwal in front of the people of Delhi and asks them to hand over the Delhi government to the BJP. I want to say that the people of Delhi have already given the Prime Minister, Amit Shah, and the BJP the responsibility of maintaining law and order. But the situation has worsened to the point where news of gang wars and shootings are common. Despite this, the Prime Minister continues to demand control over schools, hospitals, electricity, and water," Sisodia said. He claimed that the people of Delhi were well-aware of the BJP's "inability" to handle law and order and, therefore, fear what might happen if other responsibilities were handed over to the party. "The law and order situation is already dire. In the coming times, together with the people of Delhi, we will make Delhi safe. The BJP has failed in this regard. We have seen benefits from initiatives like installing CCTV cameras, and we will implement more such measures to enhance security," he added. Reacting to the BJP's Kalkaji candidate Ramesh Bidhuri's controversial remarks on Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi and Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, Sisodia said, "It is clear that whatever Ramesh Bidhuri says, he does so with the consent of his party's senior leaders. This reflects the BJP's character, where comments on women, including women parliamentarians and Chief Ministers, are normalised, and their personalities mocked publicly." He urged the Prime Minister to clarify whether he endorses such derogatory remarks made by his party members. Bidhuri had courted a massive controversy with his remark that he would make the roads of the Delhi Assembly seat "as smooth as Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi's cheeks" and his derogatory comment on the change of surname by Delhi Chief Minister Atishi from Marlena to Singh. Addressing the CAG report on the AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal's former official residence, labelled 'Sheesh Mahal' by the BJP, Sisodia questioned the government's selective criticism. "Is there any report on the Prime Minister's Rs 2,700 crore residence, the Rs 850 crore aeroplane, or the Rs 10 lakh suit?" he asked. Sisodia reiterated that the people of Delhi were observing the BJP's governance and remain committed to ensuring the city's safety and welfare through collaborative efforts. Mumbai, Jan 6 : Veteran actor Anupam Kher has lauded the internationally acclaimed film "All We Imagine as Light" by Payal Kapadia and said that it has left a profound impact on him. Talking about the film, which has made its OTT debut, Anupam said: "aAll We Imagine as Light has left a profound impact on me. Itas rare to come across a film that not only tells a story but also stirs something deep within you. The narrative, the visuals, and the performances all come together so seamlessly, creating an experience that lingers in your heart. I want to congratulate the entire team for their incredible hard work and for earning the recognition they truly deserve." Heaping praise on "All We Imagine as Light", he said it reminds why cinema is a strong medium. Anupam further added, "Itas films like these that remind us why cinema is such a powerful medium. Iam delighted that Disney+ Hotstar will be streaming it for the audience, this story deserves to be watched by everyone." "All We Imagine as Light" deals with the life of two Malayali nurses working in Mumbai. The first one is Prabha, a straitlaced woman yearning for her absent husband, and the other one is her outgoing roommate Anu, who ends up being a part of a forbidden love affair. Before arriving on the OTT, Payal Kapadiaas "All We Imagine As Light" created history by becoming the first Indian film in the last 30 years to run in the main competition at the Cannes Film Festival and was feted with the 'Grand Prix' honour. In addition to this, it was also nominated for the Golden Globes Awards in not one but two categories - 'the Best Motion Picture' (Non-English Language) and 'the Best Director'. Payal is the third Asian woman to be nominated in the 'Best Director' category. Furthermore, "All We Imagina As Light" also received a nomination in the 'Best Foreign Language Film' category at The Critics Choice Awards. New Delhi, Jan 6 : Uttarakhand chief minister Pushkar Dhami called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi at latter's official residence on Monday and presented him with a famous handmade shawl of Chamoli region. Dhami's meeting with PM Modi comes in backdrop of state government's last-minute preparations for the roll-out of Uniform Civil Code (UCC), this month. CM Dhami has categorically stated, a couple of times, that 'Devbhoomi' will roll-out the UCC in the new year. Sources claim that the Chief Minister is keen on bringing the new law by Makar Sakranti on January 14 or Republic Day. Dhami's meeting with PM Modi gives further credence to reports of UCC launch this month and the Chief Minister is understood to have sought the blessings of Prime Minister before the final roll-out. CM Dhami also took to X to share information about this and said he 'received guidance' from PM Modi on various subjects. "I met the great visionary who plays the role of a yagnik in the great yagya of nation's progress, who has made all the countrymen proud on the global stage. Received guidance on various subjects. On this occasion, I also presented him famous handmade shawl of Malari (Chamoli) region and a replica of Narayan Ashram in Pithoragarh," he wrote. Notably, the Uttarakhand government has been undertaking many measures for the smooth roll-out of UCC. State government officials have been asked to undertake training till January 20 while assistance centres and specialised moblie applications have been developed to train them for implementation of UCC procedures. Uttarakhand Home Secretary held a meeting recently to review the preparations and the same was attended by District Magistrates, Additional District Magistrates, Chief Development Officers, and Sub-Divisional Magistrates. The BJP-ruled hill state is set to become the first state to implement the UCC, which mandates a uniform law for various matters like marriage, divorce, adoption, inheritance and will be applicable to all the residents irrespective of their religion, caste and community. --IANS mr/ New Delhi, Jan 6 : The Punjab government on Monday apprised the Supreme Court that the farmers protesting at the Punjab-Haryana border have agreed to hold talks with the court-appointed panel. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the Punjab government, submitted before a bench headed by Justice Surya Kant that the meeting was fixed for 3 p.,m today, where a "breakthrough" is likely to take place. Thereafter, the Justice-Kant led Bench deferred till January 10 the hearing on a contempt plea seeking action against the Chief Secretary of Punjab over the non-hospitalisation of farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who is on a fast unto death. The 70-year-old cancer patient has been fasting at Khanauri, the border point between Punjab and Haryana, since November 26 in support of their long-pending demands, including a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops, loan waiver and reforms to improve conditions in the agricultural sector. In September last year, the top court ordered the formation of a committee to amicably resolve the grievances of the farmers protesting at the Punjab-Haryana border. It had suggested the panel headed by Justice Nawab Singh, a former judge of Punjab and Haryana High Court, to hold negotiations with the protesting farmers for the removal of their tractors, trolleys, etc., from the National Highway for the ease of the general public. Further, the apex court had granted liberty to farmers to shift their peaceful protests to an alternative site. Apart from Justice Nawab Singh, the panel comprised former Haryana DGP B.S. Sandhu, agricultural analyst Devender Sharma, Prof Ranjit Singh Ghuman, agricultural economist Dr Sukhpal Singh, and Prof Baldev Raj Kamboj as a special invitee. In the previous hearing, the Supreme Court said that it had never directed to end the hunger strike of Dallewal but was only concerned with his health. "There appears to be a deliberate attempt in the entire media where state government officers (of Punjab) are trying to create an impression that there is a persuasion by this court to Mr Dallewal to break his fast. Our directions were not to break his fast. We only said that let his health be taken care of and he can continue his peaceful protest even when he is hospitalised," it had told Punjab's Advocate General Gurminder Singh. The Justice Kant-led Bench said that shifting Dallewal to the hospital should not mean that he will not continue his fast but that the medical facilities will ensure that no harm is caused to his life. It had cautioned that if the Punjab government keeps failing to implement its order regarding the hospitalisation of Dallewal, the apex court will seek intervention of the Centre. "It is entirely the responsibility of the State of Punjab to ensure the stable health condition of Mr Jagjit Singh Dallewal, for which if he requires hospitalisation, the authorities must ensure to do so. The state government, therefore, will take a call as to whether Mr Dallewal can be shifted to the makeshift hospital (temporary hospital, which is said to have been set up at a distance of 700 metres from the site) or to any other well-equipped hospital," the SC had ordered on December 20. New Delhi, Jan 6 : The Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not a new virus and most of the Indian population are immune to it, said health experts on Monday, even as the number of reported cases climbed to three in the country. On Monday, health officials in the country reported three cases of HMPV -- babies aged three- and eight-month-old from Bengaluru (Karnataka) and a two-year-old child in Gujarat's Ahmedabad. "Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not a new virus. It has been part of the circulating flu virus in India for long. Hence, the majority of the Indian population has developed immunity against it," Dr. Harshal R Salve, Additional Professor, Centre for Community Medicine at AIIMS, New Delhi, told IANS. He added that the "chances of a severe disease are very rare". HMPV was first discovered in 2001 and is part of the Pneumoviridae family along with the Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The symptoms commonly associated with HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. "Like for any other flu viruses, elderly people, children and people with comorbidities must take care. There is no need to create panic, and one should stop rumour-mongering in the public," Salve said. The two cases from Karnataka were detected via routine surveillance by ICMR in a 3-month-old girl and an 8-month-old boy. Both had a history of bronchopneumonia -- a form of pneumonia, a lung infection, and were admitted to a private hospital. Bronchopneumonia affects both the alveoli in the lungs and the bronchi. The Health Ministry informed that while the baby girl "has been discharged", the baby boy "is now recovering" In the third case, the child, from Rajasthan, was admitted to a private hospital in Chandkheda's area of Ahmedabad, after showing symptoms of cold and cough. The child is stable now, reports quoted civic officials as saying. "HMPV is not a new virus. It commonly causes colds among children and also some adults. For self-limiting colds, we don't do expensive tests to diagnose which specific virus it is due to. Therefore, the finding of this virus upon testing is not anything unusual or worrisome," Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, Chairman of the Kerala State IMA Research Cell, told IANS. "All over the world, HMPV is a well-known cause of common cold," he added. HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and cases of respiratory illnesses associated with HMPV have been reported in various countries, particularly in China. "Common cold is more common in winter, therefore it is being reported from China at this time. People should not get the impression that a new virus from China has now reached Bangalore," Jayadevan told IANS. Notably, the three cases of HMPV have no travel history. Thus, it currently remains unknown whether the cases are related to the outbreak seen in China. "They (infected children) have not traveled to China, Malaysia, or any other country. The outbreak in China is linked to a new variant of HMPV. We do not yet have full details, and the government is still gathering information," said Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, while speaking to the media. "HMPV isn't new. What we don't know is whether the strain is novel and has a virulence that's different from what we've experienced in the past. Unless one knows that it is a novel strain, cases have been detected all the time! Hopefully, whole genome sequencing and clinical information will clarify soon," said Lancelot Pinto, an Indian pulmonologist and epidemiologist, in a post on social media platform X. Meanwhile, the government has issued precautionary measures such as covering mouth and nose with handkerchiefs or tissue paper while coughing, or sneezing; washing hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizer; avoiding crowded places; staying away from public places while having fever, cough, or sneezing. (Rachel V Thomas can be contacted at rachel.t@ians.in) Historians found a "greeting" from Ukrainian Ostarbeiters on the walls of a bomb shelter in Germany. Local historians from the NGO After the Silence learned about the fate of girls from the Cherkasy region who were taken to the Reich for forced labor during World War II. ADVERTISIMENT The researchers contacted Lyudmyla Diduk, the head of the school museum in the village of Mokra Kalyhirka, after handwritten names of 14 residents of her village were found on the walls of an old bomb shelter in Grevenbroch, Germany. The woman told Suspilne how the investigation of the disturbing discovery is going on. The museum's head, Lyudmyla Diduk, said that the collection of the lyceum in the village of Mokra Kalyhirka includes notebooks with inked inscriptions, old clothes, and military artifacts. "We conduct a lot of research. The latest one we started working on is about Ostarbeiters," she noted. It is known that Ostarbeiters were people taken by the Nazis from the eastern occupied territories to work in Germany as forced laborers. In general, according to experts, from the end of 1941 to the beginning of 1944, 2.4 million of our compatriots were deported from Ukraine to the Third Reich. Most of them were girls, Ukrinform reports. ADVERTISIMENT The photo with the inscriptions on the wall of the German bomb shelter was the reason for the new research, emphasized Lyudmyla Diduk. "German researchers found inscriptions left there by Ukrainian Ostarbeiters. The question is how they were preserved," said the museum director. The inscriptions were found by German experts on the wall of an old bomb shelter in October 2024. Ukrainian historian Andriy Usach said that to find out more, researchers from Germany turned to the NGO After the Silence, which he heads. ADVERTISIMENT "The topic of forced labor is one that we have been working on for years. The most difficult thing was to identify people. Because there were only surnames and initials. We turned to Ms. Lyudmyla, who works in the Mokrokalahirsk museum," the historian noted. There were 14 names on the wall whose fate was unknown for eighty years. "We sent out a call to all the settlements of our community. The search is ongoing. Some names have already been discovered and researched," said Usach. In order to find information about the girls who were forced to work in Germany, Lyudmyla Diduk looked up the archives of the local village council. "I wrote down all the Ostarbeiters in Mokra Kalyhirka and Sukha Kalyhirka. I immediately did research on how many people lived there at the time, in 1944-1946. I counted everything," she emphasized. ADVERTISIMENT During the research, we managed to find out information about the fate of the five Ukrainian women mentioned on the wall. "There was a bomb shelter for a weaving factory in that town, and these girls may have worked there. And I have an idea that they may have lived there," suggested the head of the museum in Mokra Kalyhirka. Andriy Usach noted that their organization turned to the Cherkasy archives to research the "filtration cases." "All deported workers underwent so-called filtration. So far, we have found filtration files for three girls. These women did not work in Grechenbroich, but in neighboring towns. They said that before the Allied army's offensive, they were transported all over Germany. Obviously, during one of these moves, they were hiding in this bomb shelter," the historian added. Lyudmyla Diduk will research the biographies of other women together with local students. A special expedition was organized at the school for this purpose. Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Seoul, Jan 6 : Around 30 ruling party lawmakers of South Korea gathered near the presidential residence to rally against investigators' efforts to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol on Monday. Last Friday, the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), handling the probe on Yoon's short-lived martial law imposition, attempted to detain Yoon at his official residence but called it off after an hourslong standoff with the Presidential Security Service. "The CIO is pretending as if it has the right to exercise the authority over investigations when it does not have the rights," Kim Gi-hyeon of the ruling People Power Party (PPP) said during the rally. PPP Reps. Yoon Sang-hyun, Cho Bae-sook, Park Dae-chul and Kim Seok-ki were among the participants. The CIO has asked the police to take over the execution of the warrant, Yonhap news agency reported. Yoon has refused to cooperate with the CIO's summonses for questioning or warrant execution as the agency is not technically authorised to investigate charges of insurrection that he faces over his brief imposition of martial law on December 3. The PPP's interim leader, Kwon Young-se, also stressed that the CIO has no right to "subcontract" investigations to the police. "The warrant itself is problematic because the CIO does not have the authority to investigate (insurrection charges), and it has no authority to subcontract it to the police," Kwon told reporters after a party meeting at the National Assembly. Earlier in the day, President Yoon Suk Yeol's legal defence team filed complaints with the prosecution against the head of the state anti-corruption agency and 10 others over last week's attempt to execute a warrant to detain the impeached president. An attempt by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) to carry out the warrant for Yoon's detention failed last Friday after an hourslong standoff with security staff at the presidential residence in central Seoul. Yoon's lawyers submitted complaints against Oh Dong-woon, head of the CIO, and others to the Seoul Central District Prosecutors Office, claiming the CIO illegally executed warrants to detain Yoon and search his residence. The legal team argued the CIO had no authority to mobilise police officials for the attempt. The team also filed complaints against acting National Police Agency Commissioner-General Lee Ho-young and acting Defence Minister Kim Seon-ho, accusing them of dereliction of duty and abuse of power for refusing the presidential security service's request for more security personnel. On Sunday, Yoon's lawyers said they would file complaints against all police and defence ministry personnel involved in the execution of the warrants. They plan to file more complaints once they confirm the details of those involved. Chandigarh, Jan 6 : Punjab Roadways and PRTC employees on Monday launched a three-day strike against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led state government, demanding the regularisation of contractual employees and addressing their long-standing issues. The strike, organised by the Punjab Roadways PUNBUS and PRTC Contract Workers Union, is being carried out across 27 depots in Punjab, including Tarn Taran, Patiala, Chandigarh, and Jalandhar. Thousands of contractual employees, including drivers, workshop mechanics, and clerical staff, have joined the protest, halting operations of nearly 3,000 buses and affecting routes across the state. Protesting employees expressed frustration over the government's inaction. According to them, despite raising these demands for months, the state government has failed to take any concrete steps. Talking to IANS, Gurpreet Singh, President of the Chandigarh Depot, Punjab Roadways PUNBUS Contract Workers Union, said: "We are protesting to demand the regularisation of contractual drivers, workshop mechanics, and clerical staff. Around 8,000 contractual workers from PRTC, Punjab Roadways, and PUNBUS have gone on a three-day strike." Singh slammed the AAP government, alleging that it has neglected its promises. "When the AAP came to power in Punjab, they assured us that all contractual employees across departments would be made permanent within a month. However, nothing has been done. The government is blinded by power and is ignoring the concerns of employees and passengers who are suffering due to insufficient buses," he added. Union leaders highlighted additional demands, including stopping the kilometre scheme, adding more buses to meet passenger needs, and repairing buses parked in workshops. They claimed that the lack of adequate buses has worsened travel issues for the public. The employees warned of intensified protests if their demands are not addressed. "If our demands are not fulfilled, we will stage a protest in front of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's residence in Chandigarh on Tuesday. If there is still no resolution, we will protest outside the residence of AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal in New Delhi," an employee said. Union representatives also recalled a meeting with Chief Minister Mann in July, which failed to yield any results. They stressed that the government's indifference has left them with no choice but to resort to road blockades for three days. The strike has caused significant disruptions, with most PRTC and Punjab Roadways buses parked at depots, including the PRTC depot in Chandigarh's Industrial Area Phase 2. Passengers across Punjab are facing difficulties due to the suspension of services. Union leaders have urged the government to act swiftly, warning that continued inaction will only exacerbate the situation for employees and the public alike. Dantewada, Jan 6 : In the most gruesome Maoist attack in the New Year, eight jawans and a driver have been killed after the rebels blew up a security vehicle in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district, police sources said on Monday. The nine were traveling through Kutra in the Bastar region in a Scorpio SUV when the attack took place around 2.15 p.m. on Monday, sources said. The attack comes within days of Union Home Minister Amit Shahas announcement that the security forces were committed to ending Maoism by March 2026. Earlier on Sunday, security forces attacked Maoists in the Abujhmad region of Chhattisgarh and killed four rebels, including two women. Automatic weapons such as AK 47 and Self-Loading Rifles have been recovered. Top security officials said a search operation is still on at the site of the attack. The escalation in violence comes a day after four Maoists were killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region on Sunday, adding that a jawan also died in action. A head constable of the District Reserve Guard (DRG), Sannu Karam, died in the encounter, which broke out on Saturday evening in a forest in south Abujhmaad. The encounter began when a joint team of security personnel was on an anti-Maoist operation, said an official. After the firing stopped, the bodies of four Maoists were found. The security forces recovered automatic weapons, including an AK-47 rifle and a self-loading rifle (SLR) from the spot. A search operation is underway in the area, the officials added. More details were awaited. This comes days after Union Home Minister Amit Shah was in Chhattisgarh's Jagdalpur, where he addressed a group of surrendered Maoists. The Home Minister promised that Prime Minister Narendra Modias government would do everything possible to rehabilitate them. He emphasised the government's commitment to rehabilitating those affected by the violence and urged collective efforts to uproot Maoism from the region. He appealed to them to help encourage other Maoists to surrender as well. Home Minister Shah said that when Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave him the responsibility of the Home Ministry in 2019, he thought that those who were involved in armed movements should be given a chance to lay down their arms, surrender, and live peacefully. Mumbai, Jan 6 : Oscar and Grammy-winning music composer AR Rahman and the KM Music Conservatory will be celebrating Bharat Maestro Awards, which honour Indian classical music legends and inspiring future music icons. The awards aim to recognise the timeless influence of Indian classical music while nurturing the next wave of musical talent, ensuring that the profound traditions of this art form continue to thrive for future generations. Musicians who will serve as the mentor panel include names such as Asha Bhosle, Amjad Ali Khan, Bombay Jayashri and Ajoy Chakrabarty, while the advisory board will consist of Ila Paliwal, Sai Shravanam, Bharat Bala, Fathima Rafiq, Khatija Rahman, Adam Greig and Clint Valladares. "The greatest joy of a guru is to witness the success and growth of their students, and it is this bond that the Bharat Maestro Awards seeks to celebrate. The idea behind instituting this is for it to be more than just an award; it's about connecting the past, present, and future of music, and uniting us all through the language of sound", said award-winning composer AR Rahman. It was announced that the awards are designed to pay tribute to the late legends, while honouring the contributions of today's musical icons. This initiative also underscores the importance of the teacher-student relationship. The awards also aim to inspire younger audiences and make classical music more accessible and immersive through innovative visual presentations and talent-driven performances. The Bharat Maestro Awards will honour talent across various categories, including Awards for Stellar Young Musicians, Lifetime Achievement Award for the Guru, State Medallion for Music Contribution. The awards will be presented by the gurus to their own students, honouring the teacher- student tradition. Additionally, the recipients of the awards will be awarded a cash prize and be provided opportunities to perform on a global stage, in addition to joining in on the performances by AR Rahman as well. The launch of the Bharat Maestro Awards also coincides with a significant milestone for KM Music Conservatory, founded by Rahman, which marks its 16th year of nurturing musical talent. The conservatory has become a renowned institution that offers programs in Western and Indian Classical musical traditions, as well as music technology. New Delhi, Jan 6 : With tears in her eyes, an emotionally disturbed Delhi Chief Minister Atishi on Monday hit out at BJP candidate from Kalkaji seat Ramesh Bidhuri for his "dirty politics" and stooping so low to attack his 80-year-old educationist father. New Delhi, Jan 6 (IANS) With tears in her eyes, an emotionally disturbed Delhi Chief Minister Atishi on Monday hit out at BJP candidate from Kalkaji seat Ramesh Bidhuri for his "dirty politics" and stooping so low to attack his 80-year-old educationist father. "He is seeking votes by abusing my father and not on his performance in the constituency," Atishi alleged claiming that attacks on her father are very disturbing. Earlier, during a rally in Delhi, Ramesh Bidhuri stated, "Atishi has changed her father. She used to be Marlena, but now she is Singh. Her parents had filed a petition seeking clemency for Afzal Guru, the man responsible for killing young people." Slamming Bidhuri, CM Atishi said he should not indulge in dirty politics for seeking votes. "You are abusing an old man who can't even walk without support. My father is a teacher who has educated underprivileged students all his life and you are abusing him and indulging in dirty politics." Challenging Bidhuri to a fair electoral fight in the Kalkaji constituency, CM Atishi said, "If you want to win votes you should tell people what you have done for them when you were an MP from the area. You should tell me how many roads you have built, and I will tell you what I have done for the voters." Atishi's counter-offensive against Bidhuri came during a press conference to allege a "voter scam" in the garb of deletion and addition of voters' names in the New Delhi Assembly constituency of Arvind Kejriwal. CM Atishi said she wrote to the Chief Election Commissioner on Sunday and sought time for a meeting to share the details of the alleged manipulation of the voters list being executed to vitiate the democratic process. "Between October 29 and January 2, applications have been filed for deletion of 6,167 voter names," she said, claiming 11 objectors, out of the total 84, have denied even filing any application for deletion of names of voters. "The role of the Election Commission's administration is also doubtful," she said, claiming that about 10,000 new voters or 10 per cent of voters have been added to the constituency's electoral rolls and 6,167 named or 5.7 per cent of names have been deleted. She said a probe should be conducted on who filed these forms when 11 objectors are themselves denying having done so. "We want the exercise of addition and deletion of voters' names should be stopped till it is clear who filed Form 7 for removal and from which cyber cafe," she said. AAP MP Sanjay Singh said the name of his wife Anita was also illegally deleted and alleged that the BJP, which has conceded defeat even before elections, is resorting to "manipulation" and sheltering "bogus or ghost objectors". "I demand action against election officials who are allowing such wrongdoings," he said, claiming a woman named Madhu, who was cited by election officials as the objector in the case of deletion of his wife's name from voters' list, has denied filing even a single Form 7. AAP MP Raghav Chadha said the party wants a house-to-house verification of objectors. "When we offered to conduct the verification, we were not given the addresses of the objectors," he said. "We urged the election officials to call the objectors to their office but even this request was also denied, claiming this would endanger the objectors or intrude on their privacy," said Chadha. At least, those objectors who have denied filing forms for deletion of names of others should be contacted, he said. Kejriwal had won the 2020 election from New Delhi by defeating Sunil Yadav of BJP by a margin of 21,697. Sanjay Singh claimed that the AAP's campaign against "voter scam" in the New Delhi constituency should not be seen as an indication of the possible loss of Kejriwal in the upcoming election. "We are objecting to a malpractice and demanding inquiry by the ECI where evidence is available," he said. Mumbai, Jan 6 : Amid concerns raised by ruling and Opposition parties over the brutal killing of Massajog sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh and the deteriorating law and order situation in Beed district, the NCP(SP) President, Sharad Pawar on Monday appealed to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to review the security arrangements of peoples' representatives and other leaders, who face threats to their lives from local goons, and provide them with appropriate police protection through the state government. In a two-page letter, Pawar said, "Santosh Deshmukh, the Sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed district, was brutally murdered by some goons a month ago. Although a long time has passed since this brutal incident, there is a public perception that Deshmukh's killer is still at large. "Therefore, it is evident that this entire incident has a very serious criminal background." He further stated, "Santosh Deshmukh's murder that has tarnished humanity is not just one, but one of many incidents like murder, kidnapping, extortion and false cases that have taken place in the Beed-Parli area in the past, so these incidents should be investigated. "There is a possibility that many incidents are interconnected. Overall, since there is a possibility that a series of cases may come to light during the investigation, the question of the safety of the peoples' representatives and other respected persons who address the public from this platform has arisen." "I request you to take timely precautions so that there is no threat to the lives and health of peoples' representatives and other leaders who are raising their voices against this incident, and also to review their security arrangements and provide appropriate police protection through the state government," the senior Pawar reiterated. Pawar said that sarpanch Deshmukh's brutal killing by some goons had led to protests across Maharashtra demanding the immediate arrest of the absconding accused and the masterminds behind it. He said that the first protest march in Beed district in this regard was to convey the seriousness of this incident to the Maharashtra government. He added that the protest condemned the incident that crossed all limits of cruelty, by setting aside caste, religion and party differences. There was a unanimous demand for the immediate arrest of the absconding accused and the masterminds behind it and for strict governance. "During the protest, several legislators including Sandeep Kshirsagar, Prakash Solanke, Jitendra Aghadi, Abhimanyu Pawar and Suresh Dhas as well as Beed MP Bajrang Sonawane expressed their strong concerns over the murder and the prevailing law and order situation in Beed. "They named the goons involved in the incident, the mastermind of the incident and the persons responsible for the incident. The media is also playing an important role in ensuring an immediate investigation into this incident that has tarnished the cultured tradition of Maharashtra," said Pawar. Lucknow, Jan 6 : More than a month after violent protests rocked the Sambhal city, the Uttar Pradesh police on Monday apprehended a woman "stone-pelter" who was hurling stones at them from the house rooftop. The woman has been identified as Zikra, and her role in stone-pelting was ascertained by the UP Police after it scanned through the viral videos. As the woman stone-pelter was identified, the UP police conducted raids to arrest her. According to police, Zikra is a resident of the Hindupura Kheda area. Till now, the police have already arrested three women who pelted stones in the violence and sent them to jail, according to the reports. The violence broke out in Sambhal on November 24 during the court-mandated survey of the city's Shahi Jama Masjid. The Muslim minorities objected to the ASI survey and protested against the police, eventually leading to violent clashes. As the videos of violence circulated on social media, a couple of women with veiled faces were also seen pelting stones at the police. The unruly mob engaged in clashes with the police and also resorted to arson, vandalism and destruction of public properties. Three people were killed in the clashes, while more than thirty cops were injured. Cracking down on the vandals, the cops took more than 52 miscreants into custody for indulging in arson and violence. During the Sambhal violence on November 24, many senior police officials were also injured, including SP K.K. Vishnoi and CO Anuj Chaudhary. A day ago, UP cops received a major success as they nabbed a key accused from Delhi's Seelampur. The accused, Salim, fired a shot at CO Anuj Chaudhary during Sambhal violence and fled to the capital and hid in the Seelampur area. Police also recovered a 12-bore pistol and live cartridges from him. Bengaluru, Jan 6 : Karnataka High Court on Monday rejected the plea for quashing of FIR against Nikita Singhania in connection with the alleged suicide case of Bengaluru techie Atul Subhash. Subhash, an automobile company employee in Bengaluru had committed suicide over alleged torture and demand of Rs 3 crore by his wife Nikita Singhania for divorce settlement. The single bench headed by Justice S.R. Krishna Kumar passed the order orally. The bench in disapproval of the demand by Subhash's wife stated that the FIR gives out everything to book the case under abetment of suicide. "What more the bench can look into?" the bench said." "The prima facie ingredients of the offence are made out in the complaint. Why don't you want the investigation to happen?" the bench asked Singhania. The counsel for Singhania submitted to the court that no ingredients were made out in the complaint for registration of the FIR over the abetment of suicide. It was also submitted that the deceased Atul Subhash had not mentioned any act by his wife and family members which drew him to commit suicide. The counsel further argued that the petitioner had the right to get legal remedies and couldn't be booked just for lodging a complaint against Atul Subhash. The court issued notices to respondents and directed them to file objections. The direction was also given for the prosecution to submit the materials collected during the investigation. A Bengaluru court on January 4 granted bail to the estranged wife and in-laws of automobile firm executive Atul Subhash, who committed suicide here last month citing a troubled marriage and accusing his spouse of harassment. The family of Atul Subhash has stated that after obtaining the order sheet, they would appeal against the decision in the High Court of Karnataka. The bail was granted to Atul Subhash's wife Nikita Singhania, her mother Nisha Singhania and brother-in-law Anurag Singhania. Atul Subhash committed suicide alleging his wife demanded Rs 3 crore for divorce settlement. The police registered an FIR against the accused persons under Sections 108, 3 (5) of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) on December 9. Bikas Kumar (Subhash's brother) had lodged a police complaint alleging abetment to suicide with the Marathahalli police in Bengaluru. Bikas Kumar alleged in the complaint that false cases were lodged against his brother (Atul Subhash) by the accused, demanding Rs 3 crore to settle the case. He had also alleged that his brother was taunted in the court during the proceedings that he had to either give Rs 3 crore or commit suicide. Nikita's family had alleged that the deceased Subhash demanded a hefty dowry from her family which resulted in the death of her father. Pavan Kumar Modi, Atul Subhash's father, had stated that the family is worried about the safety of his grandson. "If the court grants bail to Atul's wife, she can attack the child and endanger his life. If she can drive my son to commit suicide, she can also do the same to the kid as well," he said. "My grandson was ATM to her. She got money on the pretext of taking care of him. She approached the High Court demanding Rs 20,000 to Rs 40,000. She went on to appeal for Rs 80,000. Even after this, she went on demanding more money. Hence, we have approached the Supreme Court for the custody of the child as he is safe with us," he had stated. Pathankot, Jan 6 : As Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the new Jammu Railway Division, locals in Pathankot expressed their excitement, calling the move a game-changer for the region's economy and connectivity. Talking to IANS, one local resident shared, "It will surely help all the people of Pathankot. It will boost business activities and provide a direct link to the Jammu rail division. This will certainly increase opportunities for everyone." Another resident added, "This development will benefit almost everyone. It will support businesses, help Army personnel travel efficiently, and improve earnings. Tourists, too, will now find it easier to travel, something they struggled with before." The inauguration was hailed by PM Modi as a "historic milestone" that would play a significant role in integrating Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) into the national railway network, while fostering infrastructural development across the region. In his address, PM Modi stated, "The inauguration of the Jammu railway division is a landmark achievement in both connecting J&K to the national railway network and enhancing the region's infrastructure." The Prime Minister also highlighted the achievements of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), calling it a marvel of engineering. He praised the Anji Khad Bridge, India's first cable-stayed rail bridge, and the Chenab River's iconic arch bridge, which holds the title of the world's highest railway bridge. These feats, he said, represent the excellence and efficiency of Indian Railways. PM Modi emphasised that the new division would not only benefit Jammu and Kashmir but also neighbouring regions, including Punjab, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh. "For a truly developed Bharat, the development of railways is essential. The modernisation and expansion of Indian Railways over the past decade have been transformational, with improvements in facilities, connectivity, and infrastructure," he said. Highlighting the progress of Indian Railways, PM Modi pointed out that 30,000 km of railway tracks had been laid in the last decade, with nearly 100 per cent electrification, a dramatic improvement from just 35 per cent in 2014. This transformation has opened up new avenues for trade, business, education, and employment. "The modernisation of Indian Railways has created lakhs of job opportunities. Initiatives like the Gati Shakti University will further enhance employability," PM Modi added. Yangon, Jan 6 : Myanmar authorities have seized 91 kg of heroin blocks in eastern Myanmar's Shan state, the state-run daily Myanma Alinn reported on Monday. Acting on a tip-off, anti-narcotics police searched a vehicle in Kengtung township in Shan state on January 1, and seized the narcotics, the report said. The confiscated narcotics are worth 1.365 billion kyats (about $650,000), and two suspects were arrested for the case, it said. According to the investigation, the drugs were being transported from Kunhing township to Tachileik township in Shan state. The suspects were charged under the country's law, and further investigations are ongoing, Xinhua news agency reported. Earlier on January 4, Myanmar authorities seized 60 kg of ICE (methamphetamine) in eastern Myanmar's Shan state, as reported by the state-run daily The Mirror. Acting on a tip-off, anti-narcotics police had searched a vehicle in Kengtung township in eastern Shan state on December 30, and confiscated the narcotics, the report said. The seized drugs were valued at 480 million kyats (about $228,571) on the black market, and a suspect was arrested in connection with the case. Investigations revealed that the drugs had been transported from Mong Ping township to Tachileik township in Shan state. The suspect was charged under the country's law, and further investigations were ongoing. On January 3, the newspaper had reported that authorities seized 40.2 kg of heroin blocks and 200,000 stimulant tablets in the same region. Acting on another tip-off, anti-narcotics police had searched a vehicle in Mong Pan township of southern Shan state on December 28, 2024, and seized the narcotics. The confiscated drugs were worth approximately 540 million kyats (about $257,142), and two suspects were arrested for the case. The suspects were charged under the country's law, and further investigations were ongoing. On January 2, the country's authorities had announced seizure of 11 kg of heroin and 200,000 stimulant tablets in central Myanmar. Acting on a tip-off, anti-narcotics police searched a vehicle in Chanayethazan township of Mandalay region on December 27, 2024 and confiscated 2.8 kg of heroin along with two suspects, a report said. According to the investigation, 8.2 kg of heroin and 200,000 stimulant tablets were found at another suspect's home in the same township, it added. The seized narcotics are worth 575 million kyats (about $0.27 million), it said. The three suspects were charged under the country's law, and further investigations were underway, it added. British parliamentarians are calling on the government to transfer to Ukraine all of Russia's frozen assets worth about $300 billion, of which 25.5 billion pounds are kept in the UK. They propose to find legal mechanisms for the legal transfer of these funds. ADVERTISIMENT According to an open letter to the Times, this step should not only financially support Ukraine in the war, but also send a powerful signal to Moscow and other potential aggressors. The British politicians argue that the use of Russia's frozen assets is necessary, as Western loans and emergency funding are not able to fully solve the problem of financing Ukraine's military and humanitarian needs. The letter emphasizes that the current aid "keeps Western taxpayers on the hook," and therefore only the use of the aggressor's assets will ensure that Russia pays for its crimes. According to Dr. Mike Martin, a Liberal MP and former army officer, the issue of asset forfeiture is not only of moral and strategic importance but also of legal significance. "There is an undeniable moral, strategic, and legal argument in favor of using Russian state assets to support Ukraine. This has never been more relevant than now, when the future US administration may reconsider the amount of aid to Ukraine," he said. ADVERTISIMENT However, government officials admit that the idea will face legal difficulties. The transfer of assets to another state is an unprecedented situation that could cause international disputes and lengthy litigation. Nevertheless, British MPs emphasize the need to find legal mechanisms that will allow a significant part of Russia's assets to be transferred to support Ukraine. According to politicians, the first step could be to use $50 billion in interest from frozen assets. These funds could provide funding for Ukraine in the short term, but experts believe that even this would be enough for only a year. If the assets are thawed without being transferred to Ukraine, then, according to parliamentarians, the loan will have to be repaid to the taxpayers of the G7 countries. Currently, the UK has at least 25.5 billion pounds of frozen Russian assets on its books. All in all, about $300 billion of the Central Bank of Russia's reserves have been frozen worldwide. As OBOZ.UA reported earlier, the Biden administration is preparing a large package of sanctions against tankers transporting Russian oil at prices above the established limit ($60 per barrel). The main goal is to reduce Russia's oil revenues and increase support for Ukraine. Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Patna, Jan 6 : The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), led by party chief Asaduddin Owaisi, has extended its support to the Jan Suraaj Party President Prashant Kishor and the demands of students protesting against alleged irregularities in the 70th BPSC Preliminary examination. Addressing the media in Bihar's Kishanganj, State Party President, Akhtarul Iman, condemned the action taken against Prashant Kishor and his supporters during the hunger strike at Patna's Gandhi Maidan. "We want the 70th BPSC examination to be cancelled. Everyone has the right to protest democratically. If the police stop them (protesting BPSC candidates) from fasting, it is not right," Iman said. Iman affirmed AIMIM's solidarity with students' demands and criticised the Bihar government's handling of the protests. He expressed outrage over reports of police misconduct, including the alleged slapping of Prashant Kishor during his arrest. "If the slapping incident is true, as seen in the picture, then this slap is not given to Prashant Kishor but to democracy," Iman said. He called for accountability and immediate action against those responsible. Iman accused the Bihar government of adopting authoritarian measures to suppress dissent. He pointed to allegations against the BPSC Chairman Parmar Ravi Manubhai and emphasised the need for transparency. "Is this government washed with Ganga water? Many allegations have been levelled against the BPSC Chairman himself, and the government is adopting a repressive policy," he said. AIMIM reiterated its demand for the 70th BPSC Preliminary examination to be re-conducted, aligning itself with the grievances of protesting students. "We stand with the demands of BPSC candidates. Irregularities took place in the exam, and we want justice for the students," Iman added. AIMIM's support highlights the growing political momentum around the students' movement in Bihar, adding pressure on the Nitish Kumar government to address allegations of irregularities in the BPSC exam. With multiple parties and leaders like Prashant Kishor championing the cause, the issue is rapidly becoming a focal point in Bihar's political discourse. Chandigarh, Jan 6 : Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday renewed his pledge to serve the state with passion, dedication and commitment while following the footsteps of Dashmesh Pita Guru Gobind Singh. The Chief Minister, who paid obeisance at Gurdwara Bhatha Sahib, greeted people on the sacred occasion of Prakash Parv of the 10th Sikh master, Guru Gobind Singh. He said the great Sikh guru had taught us to fight against tyranny, injustice and oppression. Mann said on this sacred day "all of us must should take pledge to discharge our duty with utmost sincerity, dedication and commitment to serve the people". The Chief Minister said the life and philosophy of Guru Gobind Singh was a binding force to unite the entire country. He said Guru Gobind Singh's universal message of peace, humanism, love and brotherhood has a lot of relevance in the current times. Mann said the government "is following the path shown by Guru Gobind Singh to ensure the wellbeing of every section of society". The Chief Minister paid obeisance at Gurdwara Sahib and prayed to almighty for the peace, progress and prosperity in the state. He also prayed that the ethos of communal harmony, peace and brotherhood are strengthened in the state with every passing day and Punjab leads the country in every sphere. Mann exhorted people to celebrate this sacred occasion with utmost devotion and dedication rising above the parochial considerations of caste, colour, creed and religion. Paying tributes, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said "Guru Gobind Singh-ji was a warrior, poet and spiritual leader who fought against injustice, casteism, and inequality. His creation of the Khalsa Panth and supreme sacrifice for humanity continues to inspire the values of bravery, peace and justice in India". "I bow to Sri Guru Gobind Singh-ji on his Prakash Utsav. His thoughts inspire us to build a society that is progressive, prosperous, and compassionate," PM Modi wrote on X. Imphal, Jan 6 : The overall gender ratio in the electoral rolls of Manipur is 1,070, which is much higher than the national average of 948, officials said here on Monday. Election officials said that women voters always outnumber male voters in Manipur. According to the officials, the national gender ratio on the electoral rolls increased from 940 in 2023 to 948 in 2024. Manipur Chief Electoral Officer Pradeep Kumar Jha said that like all previous electoral rolls, 10,61,979 women voters outnumbered the male electorate of 9,92,140 in the final electoral rolls, which were published on Monday. He said that after the over two-month-long special summary revision of the photo electoral rolls with January 1, 2025 as the qualifying date, the final photo electoral rolls of all the 60 Assembly constituencies were published on Monday. The CEO said that as per the final electoral rolls, the gender ratio stands at 1,070 as compared to 1,069 in the draft electoral rolls, published on October 29, 2024. He said that the elector population ratio is recorded at 55.37 per cent as compared to 54.84 per cent in the previous draft rolls. The total number of voters as per final electoral rolls is 20,54,387 showing a net increase of 19,727 with 10,61,979 women voters, 9,92,140 male voters and 268 third gender. Jha said that the total number of newly-enrolled electors during the revision period is 29,468 with 13,348 males and 16,118 females and two third genders. The Election Commission has taken special efforts to enroll the new voters now living in the relief camps in different districts. The Manipur government has set up 302 relief camps in different districts to provide shelter to over 59,000 ethnic violence affected people. The Election Commission during the special summary revision also undertook an extensive voter awareness campaign under the Systematic Votersa Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) initiative to enroll the maximum number of eligible voters in the rolls. Sydney, Jan 6 : Cooler conditions and rain have allowed authorities in the southeastern Australian state of Victoria to contain a major bushfire that has been burning since mid-December. Victorian authorities on Monday downgraded emergency warnings for the bushfire in the Grampians National Park, about 230 km west of Melbourne, and allowed evacuated residents of nearby towns to return home. Firefighters were able to contain the fire after temperatures dropped from a maximum of 40 degrees Celsius (C) on Sunday to under 15C on Monday, with the cool change bringing rainfall. The fire, which was sparked by lightning on December 16, has burned through more than 76,000 hectares of land in the national park and surrounding areas. Communities in and around the national park were ordered to evacuate in late December due to the threat posed by the fire. Emergency Management Victoria said on Monday that four homes and 40 outbuildings were destroyed by the fire and hundreds of animals were killed, Xinhua news agency reported. Incident Controller Peter West told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation that officially declaring the fire contained was the first step towards reopening areas of the national park to the public. He said that it could still take weeks for the fire to be extinguished and that small flare-ups are likely in the meantime. Hundreds of firefighters as well as water-bombing aircraft from across Australia joined the effort to contain the blaze during the several-week period that it was burning out of control. Earlier on December 22, residents who had evacuated several towns in southeast Australia due to a major bushfire were told they could be away from home for several weeks as the fire continued to grow. Thousands of people in six towns in and around the Grampians National Park, approximately 230 kilometres west of Melbourne in the southeastern state of Victoria, had been ordered to evacuate as the bushfire in the park threatened homes and lives. The fire had burned more than 34,000 hectares of land, and over 300 firefighters and water bombing aircraft were working to slow its spread. Seoul, Jan 6 : South Korean prosecutors on Monday indicted the top military intelligence commander over his alleged involvement in President Yoon Suk Yeol's botched martial law imposition last month. The prosecution's special investigation team indicted Defence Intelligence Commander Major general Moon Sang-ho on charges of playing an "integral" role in an insurrection and abuse of power. Moon is suspected of sending troops to the National Election Commission's office in Gwacheon, south of Seoul, on the night of the short-lived martial law imposition on December 3. He is also suspected of discussing martial law operations with Noh Sang-won, a former defence intelligence commander, alongside two other subordinates, at a burger franchise in Gyeonggi Province two days ahead of the martial law imposition, Yonhap news agency reported. Earlier on December 31, 2024, prosecutors indicted the chiefs of the Defence Counterintelligence Command and the Capital Defence Command over their alleged role in President Yoon Suk Yeol's botched martial law imposition earlier that month. The prosecution's special investigation headquarters indicted Lieutenant General Yeo In-hyung of the Defence Counterintelligence Command and Lieutenant General Lee Jin-woo of the Capital Defence Command, with physical detention, on charges of playing a key role in an insurrection and abuse of power. This marked the prosecution's second indictment in the case, following the indictment of former Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun the previous week. Yeo was suspected of sending troops to the National Assembly and the National Election Commission at the orders of then Defence Minister Kim after martial law was imposed on December 3. Charges against him also included ordering the arrest of 14 people, including the leaders of the ruling and main opposition parties. Lee was accused of ordering the deployment of troops to the National Assembly on the night of the martial law imposition and directing them to enter the National Assembly building and drag out lawmakers. Prosecutors suspected the commanders' actions amounted to instigating a riot in order to subvert the constitutional order. Chennai, Jan 6 : Tamil Nadu Water Resources Minister and DMK General Secretary, S. Duraimurugan, has criticised Governor R.N. Ravi for walking out of the Assembly without delivering the customary address. Duraimurugan condemned the Governor's actions, stating that R.N. Ravi has repeatedly demonstrated similar behaviour. He noted that the Governor's refusal to deliver the address, as mandated under Article 176 of the Constitution, raises serious concerns about his intentions. Earlier, Governor Ravi had walked out of the Assembly on the first day of the session without delivering the customary address. Duraimurugan said that the Assembly Speaker, M. Appavu, had informed the Governor as early as last year about the established protocol: the Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu (the invocation to Mother Tamil, the state song) is sung before the address, and the national anthem is played upon its conclusion. The senior DMK leader added that the Governor's repeated objections and actions indicate a lack of respect for the Assembly's established traditions. Duraimurugan emphasised that the state government, the legislative body, and the people of Tamil Nadu have always shown great respect for the nation, the national anthem, and the ideals of patriotism and national integration. He also recalled that in February 2024, Governor Ravi had stirred controversy by refusing to read the full address prepared by the state government. On that occasion, the Governor reduced an hour-long speech to three minutes and walked out of the Assembly, claiming disagreement with certain portions of the text and accusing the state of disrespecting the national anthem. In 2023, a similar controversy arose when Governor Ravi skipped portions of the policy address that referenced secularism, the Dravidian model, and leaders such as Periyar, B.R. Ambedkar, and former Chief Ministers C.N. Annadurai and M. Karunanidhi. In response, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin introduced a resolution to record only the original speech prepared by the government. Duraimurugan also said that the late DMK patriarch and former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi had expressed reservations about the Governor's role but had always shown respect for the gubernatorial office. The Minister concluded by saying that the Governor's continued disregard for constitutional and legislative norms undermines the dignity of the Assembly and calls into question his commitment to the role. Chennai, Jan 6 : The Madras High Court has set aside a series of preventive detention orders passed under the Goondas Act against the accused in the Kallakurichi hooch tragedy. A Division Bench, comprising Justices Subramaniam and M. Jothiraman ruled on Monday that such detention curtails the fundamental right to liberty guaranteed under the Constitution. The court emphasised that the power to invoke preventive detention laws must be exercised sparingly to avoid misuse or complaints. The Kallakurichi hooch tragedy, which occurred in June 2024, resulted in the deaths of 68 people and caused serious health issues for approximately 161 others, including loss of vision among several survivors. The accused in the case were arrested shortly after the incident. The court observed that the Tamil Nadu Prevention of Dangerous Activities of Bootleggers, Cyber Law Offenders, Drug Offenders, Forest Offenders, Goondas, Immoral Traffic Offenders, Sand Offenders, Sexual Offenders, Slum Grabbers, and Video Pirates Act, 1982 (commonly referred to as the Goondas Act) was invoked by the Collector only in August 2024, two months after the arrests. Justice Subramaniam, who authored the verdict, pointed out that the delay in invoking the Act was unjustified. Additionally, the court highlighted that some of the accused, reportedly involved in supplying methanol and other harmful ingredients, were illiterate or did not understand Tamil. Despite this, the documents relied upon by the Collector to pass the detention orders were not translated into languages understood by the detainees. The failure to provide translated documents violated the detaineesa rights to make an effective representation against the detention orders, the Bench noted. This procedural lapse, combined with the prolonged delay in invoking the Act, led the court to quash the detention orders. The Division Bench also noted that the accused had already spent more than six months in custody, with most of them not granted bail. The court advised the investigating agencies to oppose bail pleas, if necessary, rather than continuing with preventive detention. New Delhi, Jan 6 : The Supreme Court on Monday said that it is not necessary to implead a Foreigners Registration Officer in a bail application filed by a foreign national, booked for committing a crime in India. "We do not see any propriety in issuing a direction that either the Civil Authority or the Registration Officer should be made a party to a bail application filed by a foreigner or a notice of the bail application be issued to the said authorities. (T)he impleadment of the Civil Authority or Registration Officer in all bail applications filed by foreigners may result in unnecessary delay in deciding the bail applications," said a bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan. The authorities under the Foreigners Act, 1946 have no locus to oppose bail application filed by a foreigner unless bail is sought where the allegation is of the offence punishable under Section 14 of the 1946 Act, added the Justice Oka-led Bench. "Under clause (b) of Section 3(2) of the (Foreigners) Act, 1946, there is a power vested in the Central government to issue an order generally or with respect to any particular foreigner or class of foreigners that they shall not depart from India or shall depart subject to observance of such conditions on departure as may be prescribed. (A)s of today, there is no order passed by the Central government for giving effect to clause (g) of Section 3(2) of the Act," it noted. In any event, even if such an order is issued, the power to arrest or detain a foreigner under the Act is independent of the power of the criminal court to grant bail, the apex court ruled. Notwithstanding the bail granted by a criminal court, the power to arrest and detain a foreigner can be exercised, provided the Central government makes an order in terms of clause (g) of Section 3(2) of the Foreigners Act, 1946, it clarified. Senior advocate Vinay Navare, appointed as amicus curiae (friend of the court), has suggested that it will be appropriate to direct that while considering the prayer for granting bail in case of a foreign national who is accused of serious offences, a notice should be issued to the Civil Authority so that the said authority can be heard on the prayer for grant of bail and on bail conditions, in the event the court is inclined to grant bail. Turning down the suggestion, the apex court laid down that it is not necessary to implead a Foreigners Registration Officer appointed under Rule 3 of the Registration of Foreigners Rules, 1992 in the bail application filed by a foreigner. "All that can be done is that while releasing a foreigner on bail, the court should direct the investigating agency or the state, as the case may be, to immediately inform the concerned Registration Officer appointed under Rule 3 of the Rules about the grant of bail so that the Registration Officer can bring the fact of the grant of bail to the notice of concerned Civil Authority," it said. In effect, the Supreme Court passed two directions. First, while granting bail to a foreigner, the concerned court will issue a direction to the prosecuting agency to immediately communicate the order granting bail to the concerned Registration Officer Rules who, in turn, will communicate the order to all concerned authorities including the Civil Authorities, to enable them to take appropriate steps in accordance with the law. Second, the apex court directed that the copy of its order will be forwarded to Registrar Generals of all the high courts, who in turn will forward the copies of the order to all the criminal courts in the respective states. Dhaka, Jan 6 : A special tribunal in Bangladesh's capital, Dhaka, has ordered an arrest warrant for former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and 11 other people over incidents of enforced disappearances. The two-member International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh (ICT-BD), led by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Majumdar, issued the warrant on Monday in Dhaka. Ironically, the tribunal was established by the government led by Sheikh Hasina under the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act to provide for the detection, prosecution and punishment of persons responsible for genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and other crimes under International Law committed by the Pakistani Army, with the help of their local collaborators, in the territory of Bangladesh during the 1971 Liberation War. Hasina's former Defence Advisor, Major General (retired) Tarique Ahmed Siddique, and former Inspector General of Bangladesh Police, Benazir Ahmed, are among the other suspects. Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam told journalists that they have applied for arrest warrants for a total of 12 people in a case of enforced disappearances. "Among them, dismissed Major General Ziaul Ahsan has been ordered to be produced as he is behind the bar. Warrants have been issued for 11 more people," he said. According to the prosecutor, the next hearing in the case has been fixed for February 12, Xinhua news agency reported. A leading voice in the struggle to restore democracy in the country, Hasina, the daughter of Bangladesh's founder Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, had to flee the country in an ignominious manner and seek refuge in India on August 5, earlier this year. Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs last month sent a diplomatic note to New Delhi to send back Hasina to Dhaka from India. Later, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that they have received the request for extradition of the ousted former Bangladeshi Prime Minister from Dhaka. With Bangladesh witnessing a surge in extremist rhetoric, increasing incidents of violence, and provocations, especially against the Hindu community, since the formation of an interim government under Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus, Hasina has strongly condemned the "tortures" inflicted on common people, especially minorities, over the past few months. "A top leader of the Sanatan religious community has been unjustly arrested, he must be released immediately," said the Bangladesh Awami League (AL) President after the arrest and jailing of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a spokesperson of the Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatan Jagran Jote who is also associated with Iskcon Bangladesh. "A temple has been burnt in Chittagong. Previously, mosques, shrines, churches, monasteries and houses of the Ahmadiyya community were attacked, vandalized and looted and set on fire. Religious freedom and security of life and property of people of all communities should be ensured," Hasina stated. "After the killing of innumerable Awami League leaders and workers, students and members of the law and order forces, harassment is going on through assaults and arrests. I strongly condemn and protest against these anarchist activities," she had added. New Delhi, Jan 6 : The Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is definitely not deadly, and there is, to date, no evidence of mortality or a severe transmission rate, said former Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) scientist, Dr Raman Gangakhedkar, on Monday. As the country saw three cases -- two in Karnataka and one in Gujarat -- the scientist told IANS that infections from the virus are usually mild, and it majorly infects children under five years of age. Among severe respiratory illnesses like influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), the global prevalence rate of HMPV stands at about 4 per cent, according to him. "We can say HMPV is definitely not deadly. Most infections are mild, and only in children who are less than five and those who are over 65. It can cause common cold-like symptoms for 4 to 5 days," Gangakhedkar said. "The virus may cause pneumonitis-like illness, but the mortality rates are almost unknown so far. HMPV has a global prevalence of about 4 per cent," he told IANS. The veteran scientist also noted that it currently remains unknown whether the cases seen in the country are related to the outbreak seen in China. "Nobody has that information because there is no information on phylogenetics or the genetic scope of this virus from China. And there is no reason to believe that it has come from China," Gangakhedkar said, adding that the ICMR "will likely conduct a genome sequencing test to understand the strain of the virus". Citing the lack of studies on HMPV in India because of being mild in nature, he urged the need to study "the changes in the behaviour of such virus in human beings, whether it is causing severe disease or increase the risk of death, which is mortality rate". HMPV was first discovered in 2001 and is part of the Pneumoviridae family along with the RSV. The symptoms commonly associated with HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. Gangakhedkar cited a study undertaken by the National Institute of Virology (NIV) between 2016 to 2008, which included 16,000 people who were admitted with acute respiratory infection and severe acute respiratory infection. The NIV researchers found that the prevalence rate of HMPV lies between 3.4 per cent. Among those who had acute respiratory infection and who among those who got admitted, it was found to be close to about 2.6 per cent. "This essentially means the virus is very much here," Gangakhedkar said, adding that it usually resurfaces in winter. The epidemiologist said that HMPV has been present in India for a long and has not caused any kind of a public health problem. There is evidence of any lung morbidity in children. Further, he stated that this "also means that people tend to get reinfected. And it is believed that every repeat infection confers partial protection, which can reduce severity". He suggested parents not send their children to school if they are sick and have common cold symptoms. For adults, Gangakhedkar said, "If you find yourself to be having a common cold, please follow Covid etiquette, for which I think people are tuned to. They understand there what precautions have to be taken". Ukrainians who have left Ukraine will not be forced to return from abroad it should be an independent decision of everyone. And the government's mission is to help these people to make their return as easy as possible. To do this, they will be helped to find a job. ADVERTISIMENT This was stated by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Unity Oleksii Chernyshov on the air of the national telethon "United News." He noted that special institutions would operate abroad for this mission. "According to our estimates, there are 20-25 million Ukrainians abroad. In Ukraine, there are approximately 32 million. This is a large, powerful nation that is now partially abroad, and we are starting the process of bringing Ukrainians back home. I would like to emphasize right away that the return is purely voluntary. No coercive measures will be taken. And we will be happy to see Ukrainians succeed abroad if they find a place for themselves and their families," Chernyshov emphasized. To return Ukrainians, "unity hubs" departments of the National Unity Agency will be established in key countries of their residence. In particular, they will appear in Germany, the UK, Poland, Austria, the Czech Republic, and other countries. ADVERTISIMENT The purpose of these hubs is to help with various services related to consular, passport, and registration issues. They will also provide Ukrainians abroad with access to communication with their homeland and, in particular, the Ukrainian labor market. Earlier, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that foreign governments already want to get rid of Ukrainian refugees who do not work but receive social benefits because they do not pay taxes. Instead, the Ukrainian government wants to return both the former and the latter, but to do so, it needs to provide them with jobs and security. At the same time, the president recognizes that this requires improving the security situation inside the country and providing reliable protection for those who decide to return. As OBOZ.UA previously reported, in 2025, Ukraine is indeed planning to launch a project to return citizens from abroad to reintegrate them into the economy and defense sector. The initiative, which will be part of the activities of the newly created Ministry of National Unity, is intended to facilitate the reintegration of citizens into the social, economic, and defense life of the country. According to the Minister of National Unity Oleksandr Kamyshyn, the project's goal is not only to return people home but also to engage them in key areas, including the defense industry. Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Melbourne, Jan 6 : Japan's former top-10 men's singles player Kei Nishikori leapfrogged 32 spots in the ATP World Rankings, getting into the Top 100 in men's singles as he made an appearance at No. 74 in the latest list released on Monday. Nishikori made the biggest jump in rankings up the ladder in the last week. Australia's Alex de Minaur, Jiri Lehecka, and Alexander Muller are the other male players in the Top-100 who gained places in the latest rankings. Nishikori, who was ranked No. 576 and had to use protection when he returned to action at the French Open 2024, reached his first ATP Tour final in six years at the 2025 Hong Kong Open last week after the retirement of Shang Juncheng. The Japanese star has climbed back into the Top 100 for the first time since June 2022 following a run to his first tour-level final in six years in Hong Kong. Nishikori beat Denis Shapovalov, Karen Khachanov, Cameron Norrie, and Shang Juncheng before falling to Alexandre Muller in the final. Alex de Minaur climbed one spot to No. 8 after earning two wins from two matches for Australia at the United Cup. The 25-year-old Australianas victories in Sydney means he will be seeded eighth at this monthas Australian Open. Lehecka continued his love affair with Australia by clinching his second ATP Tour title in the country in Brisbane. The 23-year-old, who won his first tour-level trophy in Adelaide last year, dropped just one set en route to the trophy at the ATP 250 in Brisbane, the ATP Tour said on its official website. The 27-year-old Muller jumped to a career-high No. 56 in the ATP Rankings after he won his first tour-level title in Hong Kong. The Frenchman became just the third player in history to win a title after losing the first set in every match he played. No. 113 Joao Fonseca, too gained 32 places. The 18-year-old Brazilian had ended 2024 by winning the Next Gen ATP Finals presented by PIF title and he began 2025 by winning an ATP Challenger Tour event in Canberra. Fonseca was perfect at the Challenger 125 in Australia, where he did not drop a set to move closer to the Top 100. Learn more about Fonseca here. Other notable Top 100 movers include No. 63 Yoshihito Nishioka who gained six spots, No. 70 Benjamin Bonzi also moved up six rungs, No. 75 Dusan Lajovic climbed five spots while Jacob Fearnley gained 13 places to a Career High at No. 86. Seoul, Jan 6 : South Korea's National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik met with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken here on Monday and discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between South Korea and the United States, officials said. The meeting at the National Assembly came as the top US diplomat visited Seoul amid efforts to ensure its alliance with the US remains strong despite political uncertainties coming from last month's botched martial law imposition. In the meeting, Woo requested continued support from the US, adding that a special parliamentary delegation is set to travel to the US soon to explain South Korea's situation and seek cooperation for their alliance. "On top of a national crisis over the martial law imposition, the Republic of Korea is in great grief due to the passenger aircraft tragedy," Woo was quoted as saying. "But as we have survived numerous national crises, such as colonial rule, (territory) division and dictatorship, I am certain we will overcome this crisis," he said. An official at the National Assembly said Blinken is the first US state secretary to visit the parliament to meet with a South Korean National Assembly speaker, Yonhap news agency reported. Earlier in the day, Blinken paid a courtesy call on acting President Choi Sang-mok, and discussed North Korea's nuclear development and military alignment with Russia with Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul. Blinken said that Russia intends to share its advanced space and satellite technology with North Korea, in exchange for the North's provision of weapons and other equipment to Moscow in support of its war against Ukraine. Blinken made the remark after talks with Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul in Seoul, calling it a concern for the United States and its key allies, like South Korea and Japan. "We have reasons to believe that Moscow intends to share advanced space and satellite technology to Pyongyang," Blinken said in a joint press conference. Blinken was on a three-nation tour this week, with planned stops in Japan and France. The trip is widely expected to be his final overseas visit as the top US diplomat under the Biden administration. Mumbai, Jan 6 : Amid a demand for NCP minister Dhananjay Munde's resignation until the ongoing investigation into the brutal killing of Massajog sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh from Beed district, the party's veteran leader and former minister Chhagan Bhujbal on Monday came to his defence, saying there was no need for him to step down right now. "Munde's resignation is being sought. I want to tell you that Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has clearly said that the government will conduct a thorough investigation and take action against everyone found guilty. "Why are they demanding Munde's resignation before that? Has anything come out of the investigation? If you have anything, give it to the police. Until something comes out of the investigation, it is wrong to demand his resignation. I don't think this is right," Chhagan Bhujbal told reporters. Bhujbal recalled how he resigned after the multi-crore stamp scam involving Abdul Telgi in 2003. "I have been through such a case. In 2003, during my stint as the state Home Minister, Telgi was arrested and a case was filed against him. My resignation was taken as at that time, I was the Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister. But after seeing the situation, I went to the Supreme Court. Through the Supreme Court, this case went to the CBI. "At that time, there was a BJP government at the Centre. The CBI investigated and ruled that I was not guilty as my name was not there in the charge sheet. However, I lost my post and my image was tarnished. I was hurt. But after that Sharad Pawar made me minister again," he said. He added, "I have suffered a lot. It is not right to resign without a reason, without proof." To a question that amid the demand for Munde's resignation, there was talk that he would be included in the Cabinet, Bhujbal said, "I will never dream of making someone resign so that I become a minister. I will also not think of becoming a minister after making someone a sacrificial lamb." Bhujbal made his statement hours after the all-party delegation met Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan seeking Munde's resignation. Former Leader of Opposition and Congress legislator Vijay Wadettiwar opposed Bhujbal's stand, saying that Munde should resign from the Cabinet. In a related development, Munde met NCP President and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and briefed him about the food and civil supplies department which he holds. "The issue of Santosh Deshmukh's killing and the demand for my resignation did not come up during my meeting with party president and Dy CM Ajit Pawar," he said. "I have been demanding that stern action should be taken against those involved in the killing of Santosh Deshmukh," he added. Meanwhile, Bhujbal admitted that he met Fadnavis and NCP(SP) President Sharad Pawar last week. "It is true. I had met Chief Minister Fadnavis. January 3 was the birthday of Savitribai Phule and on that occasion, there was a big programme in his native village Naigaon. The Chief Minister and seven-eight ministers were there. Some development work needs to be done. He immediately ordered the Collector and everyone to acquire land. "On the same evening, a full-scale statue of Mahatma Phule was unveiled in Chakan. NCP(SP) chief Sharad Pawar was there. I was also invited. I met him. I want to make it clear during my meetings with the chief minister or with NCP(SP) chief, politics was not discussed. We only discussed the work of social reformers Mahatma Phule and Savitribai Phule," he added. Furthermore, Bhujbal on Monday clarified that he did not meet state president Sunil Tatkare or the national working president Praful Patel after he was denied a ministerial berth in Fadnavis' council of ministers. "No meeting took place. I don't want to say anything on this issue anymore. All my feelings are dead now," he claimed. Jaipur, Jan 6 : Amid the cold weather and rise in seasonal diseases in Rajasthan, the State Health Department on Monday issued directions to healthcare facilities to establish separate outpatient department (OPD) and inpatient department (IPD) arrangements for patients infected with Covid-19, swine flu, and influenza, officials said. Additionally, it mandates genome sequencing of Covid-19 samples when cases are detected. These instructions were outlined in a letter issued by Ravi Prakash Mathur, Director of the Rajasthan Health Department, to all chief medical health officers, medical college principals, hospital superintendents, and primary medical officers of district hospitals. The letter highlighted that 921 cases of swine flu and Covid-19 were reported in the state between January and March 2024, with a surge during the winter season. In anticipation of a similar trend this year, healthcare professionals have been advised to remain vigilant and follow treatment protocols for symptomatic patients. The Health Department Director has instructed hospital superintendents to create separate OPD and IPD facilities for suspected swine flu and Covid-19 patients. Dedicated isolation wards are to be set up in IPDs for severe cases to prevent the spread of infection in general wards. Moreover, OPD areas for suspected cases must be segregated to ensure proper treatment and minimise exposure to other patients. The directive also emphasises conducting genome sequencing for Covid-19 cases. Hospitals are instructed to send samples to Sawai Man Singh Medical College, Jodhpur Medical College, and Kota Medical College in Jaipur for this analysis. The letter also said that special precautions should be taken for high-risk groups, including pregnant women, children and senior citizens. Further availability of medicines and facility of sample collection should be ensured in all clinics across the state. All ICUs should be equipped with beds and ventilators for emergency circumstances, the letter said. Mumbai, Jan 6 : Kareena Kapoor recently flew to Switzerland with hubby Saif Ali Khan, and sons Taimur Ali Khan and Jeh Ali Khan to ring in the New Year. The stunner has been treating the netizens with sneak peeks into the celebration ever since. The 'Omkara' actress recently took to her official Instagram account and dropped a fresh string of pictures. The photographs feature the diva having a gala time with her husband and little munchkins. From posing with the family to tapping a foot, these stills scream fun. Kareena Kapoor captioned the post, "Headed home with this mood for 2025". Commenting on the post, Rhea Kapoor wrote, "Tims shoes on point (sic)". While Kareena Kapoor looked breathtaking in a shimmery dress with open hair and red heels, Saif Ali Khan channeled his inner Nawab in a black pantsuit with a matching bow. Twinning with his father, little Taimur also opted for a black suit. Before this, the "Tashan" actress posted another pile of stunning pictures where her son Taimur can be seen carrying her heels back after an event. The post included the caption aMAA ki seva iss saal and forever. Happy new year friends. More Pictures coming soon. stay tuned." The thoughtful gesture by Taimur left the netizens impressed. The Instagram users took to the comment section to appreciated the little munchkin. A netizens wrote, aHe is turning into a true blue Pataudi Gentleman," along with a heart-eyed emoji. Meanwhile, another one was of the opinion aTaimur is a gentleman God bless you baby." Meanwhile, Kareena Kapoor last graced the silver screens with Rohit Shettyas cop drama, "Singham Again", opposite Ajay Devgn. Up next, the actress has reportedly joined hands with 'Raazi' fame director Meghna Gulzar for her drama, titled "Daayra" for now. If the reports are to be believed, the highly-awaited movie will also see Ayushmann Khurrana as the lead. Canberra, Jan 6 : Fatal light aircraft crashes claimed 27 lives in 20 unnecessary accidents last year in Australia after two consecutive years of recording 33 deaths, according to the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB). Despite the decrease in the number of fatalities, the spate of fatal crashes in 2024 caused concern about the future of the hobby aircraft sector, and aviation experts are calling for more thorough investigations into recreational aircraft accidents, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) on Monday. Aviation consultant and training officer Lorraine MacGillivray said she wanted to see more air crash investigations and less red tape for pilot training following the death of five people in a string of crashes in the state of Victoria between September and November last year, the ABC reported. However, large passenger carriers received priority when determining what was investigated, said the ATSB Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell, adding the risk of a fatality was greater around Australia's 2,300 non-towered aerodromes, calling for pilots to remain vigilant to boost safety. The ATSB said it could investigate around 70 aviation, maritime, and rail incidents annually, but was notified of more than 8,000 incidents each year, Xinhua news agency reported. On September 13, last year, one person had died in a light plane crash in the southeastern Australian state of Victoria. Victoria Police said that a man died when a light aircraft crashed on private property in Redesdale, a small town approximately 100 kilometers northwest of Melbourne. In a statement, Victoria Police said that the man, who has not been formally identified, died at the scene of the crash. The pilot was the only occupant of the aircraft. In another shocking incident, involving a helicopter this time, a pilot was killed when the helicopter flown by him crashed into a hotel in Far North Queensland, in August 2024. Nautilus Aviation, the Australian company that owned the helicopter, later confirmed that the pilot who was killed in the "unauthorised" flight was a current ground crew employee. According to the company, a ground crew employee gained unauthorised access to its helicopter hangar at the Cairns International Airport and misappropriated an aircraft. The pilot, the sole occupant of the helicopter, died when it crashed into the roof of the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in the northeastern city of Cairns shortly after takeoff, sparking a fire and forcing the evacuation of hundreds of guests. A top executive of the company later said that the employee -- who started working with the company four months ago -- held a pilot's license in New Zealand but had never flown in Australia. New Delhi, Jan 6 : Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday made some startling and sensational claims about 'imminent' CBI raids on the premises of his close aide and ex-Deputy CM Manish Sisodia. Taking to his social media handle X, Kejriwal claimed that reliable sources have confirmed that Manish Sisodia will face raids by CBI sleuths in the next few days at the behest of the BJP-led government at the Centre. He claimed that the BJP was frustrated and rattled with the AAP's model of growth in the national Capital and hence was resorting to such 'devious' ways to score political points. "I had said a few days ago that Delhi CM Atishi ji would be arrested and some AAP leaders would be raided. According to reliable sources, there will be a CBI raid on Manish Sisodia's house in the next few days. The BJP is losing the Delhi elections. These arrests and raids are the result of their frustration," wrote the AAP supremo on X. In the same breath, he declared that his party was a staunchly honest outfit and the Centre and its agencies will once again find nothing damning, like in previous instances. "So far, they have not found anything against us, they will not find anything in the future either. The AAP is a staunchly honest party," Kejriwal asserted. Manish Sisodia, the former Delhi Deputy CM was arrested over alleged corruption in the Delhi liquor excise policy. He was raided by the CBI in August 2022 and charged with facilitating graft in the now-defunct policy. The AAP had dismissed the charges, calling it witch-hunt by the Centre. Kejriwal, last month, had raised apprehensions about Delhi CM Atishi's arrest in a fake transport case as he claimed that the BJP was rattled by the AAP's announcement of welfare initiatives like the 'Mahila Samman Yojana' and' Sanjeevani Yojana'. Addressing a press conference, he claimed that multiple Central agencies like the ED and CBI and the Income Tax department were given 'instructions from the top' to arrest the Chief Minister and raid AAP leaders. Juba, Jan 6 : The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) on Monday expressed concern about the impacts of communal violence on civilians, following the killings of 299 people between July and September 2024. UNMISS said in its latest quarterly report released in Juba, the capital of South Sudan, that communal violence remains the key driver of conflict affecting civilians, resulting in a heavy toll on people across the country. The UN Peacekeeping Mission's Human Rights Division documented 206 incidents affecting 792 civilians, of which 299 were killed, 310 injured, 151 abducted, and 32 were subjected to conflict-related sexual violence between July and September 2024, according to the report. It said that despite a four per cent fall in violent incidents, from 215 cases to 206, compared to the same period in 2023, the total number of victims rose 24 per cent to 792 cases from 641. UNMISS said the number of civilians killed went down seven per cent, from 321 to 299, while the tally of people injured surged 34 per cent, from 231 to 310, during the same period. Nicholas Haysom, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for South Sudan and head of UNMISS, called for accountability, noting the trend of increasing violence against women and abductions is alarming. "While UNMISS continues to proactively protect civilians, I call for concerted efforts by national, state and local authorities, as well as community leaders, to resolve longstanding grievances and find locally sustainable solutions to conflict drivers," he said. Haysom urged the government to swiftly investigate human rights violations and abuses and hold all perpetrators to account. The report said that there has also been a steep increase in abduction and conflict-related sexual violence, from 65 cases to 151 in the same period, while noting a 35 per cent reduction in violent incidents, from 317 to 206, and a 25 per cent fall in civilian casualties, from 1,062 to 792, as compared with the previous three months (April to June 2024). UNMISS said the highest number of victims killed were documented in Warrap State, accounting for 60 per cent of the total number of civilian deaths, whereas the majority of abductions took place in Central Equatoria State, constituting 69 per cent of all documented abductions in the country, and most of these victims were men, Xinhua news agency reported. It said tensions between government security forces and the National Salvation Front, a rebel splinter group, continue to threaten the security and protection of civilians across the Greater Equatoria region, countering the terms of the Cessation of Hostilities signed by both parties. Patna, Jan 6 : Prashant Kishor, the chief of the Jan Suraj Party, was sent to 14 days of judicial custody by the Patna Police after he refused to accept the conditional bail granted by a court here on Monday. The bail bond, set at Rs 25,000, included a condition that Kishor would refrain from similar actions in the future, a stipulation he declined, citing the principle of his ongoing satyagraha. Kishor justified his decision, stating: "I was granted bail, but the condition was that I would not engage in such activities again. This fight is for fundamental rights and justice. If raising one's voice against injustices, like the use of lathis on women and youth, is a crime in Bihar, then I am ready to go to jail. My satyagraha will continue even in custody until the government provides a solution. Bihar is a place where Mahatma Gandhi did the Satyagraha and if doing the same in Bihar is a crime then I am ready to do such a crime." The timing of filing the bail bond was 4 p.m. on Monday but Prashant Kishor informed the court that he is ready to go to jail instead of taking conditional bail. Kishor had been on a hunger strike since January 2, protesting against the Bihar government's alleged use of force and other grievances. Earlier in the day, the police arrested Kishor from the Gandhi statue in Patna, where he was on hunger strike. He was placed in an ambulance for five hours and taken to multiple locations, including AIIMS Patna and the Fatua Community Hospital. He claimed that the AIIMS administration refused to admit him, and he rejected medical examinations at other facilities, calling them unnecessary. The Jan Suraj Party founder criticised the Bihar government, stating, "Public spaces like Gandhi Maidan should remain open for peaceful protests and expressions of dissent." His refusal to accept bail is a stance against policies he claims suppress democratic voices. He accused the government of using a "lathi-system" to silence dissent and vowed to continue his campaign to challenge the leadership of Nitish Kumar and the BJP. While addressing his followers, Kishor urged restraint: "Do not push or confront the police; they are merely following orders. This campaign is against the system, not the officers themselves." He has declared that his hunger strike, which entered its fifth day at the time of arrest, will continue even in jail. He reaffirmed his commitment to finding a resolution to the issues raised, including police actions against protesters and other grievances against the Bihar government. This development underscores escalating tensions between the Jan Suraj Party leader and the state government, with Kishor describing his arrest as a stand for democratic rights and justice. Jaipur, Jan 6 : Former Rajasthan Minister Rajendra Gudha has stirred a controversy with his remarks about administrative officers, claiming that "people who fear cockroaches in the bathroom become thanedaar (police station incharge), Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Deputy District Collector, Superintendent of Police, etc. and those who dare to put their hands into snake or lizard burrows fail their Class 10 exams". Gudha made this statement on Sunday in Gothra village of Jhunjhunu district, while addressing a Kisan Sabha opposing the Shree Cement factory. The meeting raised issues, including demands for local employment opportunities. Permission for the gathering, scheduled near the factory on January 5, was denied by SDM Jai Singh, citing an ongoing prohibition against protests within 300 metres of the factory. This prohibition aligns with an injunction issued by Nawalgarh senior civil judge on August 14, 2024. The SDM warned that violating the order could lead to legal action. Despite the restrictions, farmers assembled on Sunday in front of the factory and held the Kisan Sabha, where former Minister Rajendra Gudha participated. Referring to the people at the gathering, Gudha likened their actions to "putting hands in a snake's hole". Later, the Minister criticised government officials, saying, "They are people afraid of cockroaches. What will happen if this fight escalates?" The remarks heightened tensions between Gudha and the police administration, though authorities managed to keep the situation under control. Former Minister Gudha warned that if the company officials did not talk to the farmers, a big agitation would be launched. Later, a delegation was sent to interact with the cement company officials. The talks were positive and the company officials assured to continue the talks to resolve the problems of the farmers. However, Gudha said that if no concrete solution is found by January 26, the agitation will be expanded on a large scale. As of 4 p.m. on Monday, January 6, 108 combat engagements took place at the frontline since the beginning of the day. Most of the attacks were carried out by the Russian military in the Kursk sector, where the Ukrainian Defense Forces repelled 17 attacks and 45 more are ongoing. ADVERTISIMENT Ukrainian defenders are disrupting the enemy's insidious plans, causing significant losses in manpower and equipment. This is stated in the operational report of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. According to the General Staff, border settlements continue to suffer from cynical shelling from the territory of the Russian Federation, in particular Karpovychi, Chernihiv region; Bila Bereza, Sumy region. Situation on the contact line on January 6, 2025 In the Kharkiv sector, Ukrainian troops repelled two attacks near Vovchansk. The enemy attacked the areas of Orishanka and Udiv with guided bombs, and Hraniv in Kharkiv region with unguided aerial missiles, the report says. ADVERTISIMENT In the Kupiansk sector, the enemy conducted three assault attacks near Synkivka, Petropavlivka, and Zahryzove. Two battles ended, and another one is ongoing. In the Lyman sector, the aggressor's army attacked seven times near Nadiia, Pershotravneve, and Makiivka. As of 4 p.m., the fighting continues, the General Staff informed. In the Siversk sector, Russian aviation struck Siversk using seven anti-aircraft gunships. The enemy attacked Ukrainians once in the area of Bilohorivka. ADVERTISIMENT In the Kramatorsk sector, Ukrainian troops repelled three attempts of the invaders to advance in the areas of Chasiv Yar, Bila Hora, and in the direction of Stupochky. The occupants launched 24 multiple rocket launchers at Stupochky. In the Toretsk sector, the enemy attacked twice near Shcherbynivka. Katerynivka, Toretsk, and Oleksandro-Kalynove were hit by air strikes. In the Pokrovsk sector, Russians made 16 attempts to push Ukrainian defenders from their positions near Tarasivka, Yelizavetivka, Lysivka, Zelene, Novyi Trud, and Pokrovsk. ADVERTISIMENT The defense forces are holding back the enemy's offensive and repelled 12 attacks, with four battles continuing. Oleksandropil suffered an air strike. In the Kurakhove sector, the enemy attacked seven times near Slovianka, Petropavlivka, Kurakhove, and Dachne. Six battles are over, and one more is ongoing. Andriivka came under attack from unmanned aerial vehicles. In the Vremivsk sector, the occupants attacked four times near Kostiantynopol and Kostiantynopolske. One battle is ongoing. The enemy launched an air strike with unguided aerial missiles near Novopole. ADVERTISIMENT In the Orikhiv sector, the enemy attacked once in the direction of Novodanylivka. He launched an air strike with unguided aerial missiles on Stepnohirsk. The enemy did not conduct any offensive actions in the Huliaipillia and Prydniprovske directions, the General Staff reported. Ukrainian soldiers repelled 17 invaders' attacks in the Kursk region, and 45 more battles are ongoing. The situation in other frontline areas did not change significantly, the report said. Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Chennai, Jan. 6 : One of Tamil cinema's fastest growing stars, Sivakarthikeyan, recently turned quite emotional as he thanked his father-in-law for trusting and backing him at a time when he was looking to pursue his dreams. Participating as a special guest in the audio launch event of Nesippaya, a film that has been directed by well known director Vishnu Vardhan and featuring actors Akash Murali and Aditi Shankar in the lead, Sivakarthikeyan had a word of advice for the lead actor Akash Murali, whose father-in-law Xavier Britto has produced the film. Sivakarthikeyan said, "We all talk of our mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers or for that matter even friends at every given opportunity. However, there is one important character in everyone's life and that is their father-in-law. It is a special relationship for many people." Turning to actor Akash, who was seated in the audience, Sivakarthikeyan said, "Brother Akash, you are one such person for whom this relationship is special. Your father-in-law has supported your desire to do a big film. You only have to do one thing in return. And that is your hard work and success. I think that will make them happy." The actor then recounted how his father-in-law had backed him at a time when he was just a TV compere and thanked him for it. "For me, my father-in-law is special. It is a big thing that he even chose to give me the hand of his daughter. My father-in-law is actually my maternal uncle (mother's brother). However, when I got married, I did not have a stable job. I was only a TV compere and I would get only Rs 4500 per episode. But even at such a time, my father-in-law said, 'He wants to do something. Going to Madras (Chennai) and surviving there itself is a big deal. He wants to go to cinema. Let us support him.' "When I saw this stage here, I wish to thank my father-in-law. He was the one who boldly supported me. My father-in-law suffered a heart attack when he was 43-years-old. He gave up his business after that because he had two daughters to take care of. Along with them, he had to look after us, his sister's children because that was also the time my dad had died. "Instead of asking me to go for a job that would fetch a lakh, he asked me to go chase my dreams. The relationship between a father-in-law and a son-in-law is a beautiful one," Sivakarthikeyan added. Nesippaya, a romantic action entertainer which has music by Yuvan Shankar Raja and cinematography by Portuguese cameraman Cameron Eric Bryson, is scheduled to release for Pongal this year. New Delhi, Jan 6 : Congress MP Rahul Gandhi's visit to Vietnam during the national mourning for former Prime Minister late Manmohan Singh was on Monday termed a 'study tour' by former Uttarakhand Chief Minister and Congress leader Harish Rawat. "I believe he has gone to Vietnam to study its economy and social system that are currently a model. He has gone there to study their economic model..." Rawat told IANS. This was among the first explanations from the Congress to justify Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi's foreign trip just before New Year's eve. Harish Rawat said he hasn't had a word with Rahul Gandhi so far but expressed confidence that the LoP would never indulge in impropriety. "If after a difficult and busy election year he, as an individual, takes some time out for himself then why is the BJP trying to look for a political twist in it," asked Rawat, calling the BJP a trollers' brigade. Reports of Rahul Gandhi's foreign tour during the seven-day mourning period following the demise of India's 14th Prime Minister set off a round of attacks and counter-attacks between the BJP and the Congress. The BJP accused Gandhi of 'prioritising' his New Year holiday over India's 'architect of economic reforms' late Dr. Manmohan Singh, as many reports claimed that the Congress MP has flown abroad to ring in the New Year. The controversy came close on the heels of bitter political mudslinging between the two parties, first over the Congress' allegation of humiliation of Dr. Singh over his cremation at the city's Nigambodh Ghat and then the BJP's counter-attack over senior Congress leaders as well as the Gandhis giving the ash immersion rituals a miss. The BJP's IT cell chief Amit Malviya took to social media to blast the Congress MP for flying abroad at a time when the nation was mourning. "While the country is mourning Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh's demise, Rahul Gandhi has flown to Vietnam to ring in the New Year," Malviya claimed in his post. Congress leader Manickam Tagore took to X and retorted, "If Mr. Gandhi travels privately, why does it bother you? Get well in the New Year." Jaipur, Jan 6 : On the birth anniversary of the 10th Sikh guru, Guru Gobind Singh, Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari on Monday paid homage by offering flowers to the Sikh guru's picture at the Sarvatobhadra Chowk in the City Palace and performed ceremonial worship of Guru Gobin Singh's historic sword enshrined here. Speaking at the event, she highlighted the enduring inspiration drawn from Guru Gobind Singh's legacy of sacrifice, bravery, and martyrdom. A Shabad Kirtan was also organised as part of the celebrations. To mark the occasion, the sacred sword of Guru Gobind Singh has been displayed at the Sarvatobhadra Chowk, allowing visitors, tourists, and the general public to view it. Guru Gobind Singh spent some time in Nahan (Sirmaur district, Himachal Pradesh). Before leaving Nahan, he gifted his sword to the erstwhile ruler as a token of remembrance. Rajmata Padmini Devi, originally from Nahan, brought the sword to Jaipur a few years ago. Taking to social media platform X, Deputy CM Diya Kumari in a post said: "Today, on the 358th Prakash Parv of Guru Gobind Singh, I paid my obeissance to the Sikh Guru by offering floral tribute to his picture at Sarvatobhadra Chowk in the City Palace and had the privilege of worshipping the Guru's historic sword (Shri Saheb) situated in the City Palace. She further added, "The saga of sacrifice, martyrdom and valour of Guru Gobind Singh will always inspire us. The saga of sacrifice, martyrdom and valour of Guru Gobind Singh is one of the inspirational chapters of Indian history. Guru Sahib not only served religion, justice and humanity in his life, but he also fought for the rights of the oppressed in the society." Earlier on Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also joined the celebrations of Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti. On social media platform X, he wrote, "I bow to Guru Gobind Singh Ji on his birth anniversary. His thoughts inspire us to create a progressive, prosperous and compassionate society." Patna, Jan 6 : In a dramatic development, Prashant Kishor, the chief of the Jan Suraj Party, got unconditional bail, hours after he was sent to 14 days of judicial custody. Earlier on Monday, Kishor had refused to accept the bail conditions set by a court here. The bail bond, set at Rs 25,000, included a condition that Kishor would refrain from similar actions in the future, a stipulation he declined, citing the principle of his ongoing satyagraha. Kishor justified his decision, stating: "I was granted bail, but the condition was that I would not engage in such activities again. This fight is for fundamental rights and justice. If raising one's voice against injustices, like the use of lathis on women and youth, is a crime in Bihar, then I am ready to go to jail. My satyagraha will continue even in custody until the government provides a solution. Bihar is a place where Mahatma Gandhi did the Satyagraha and if doing the same in Bihar is a crime then I am ready to do such a crime." The timing of filing the bail bond was 4 p.m. on Monday but Prashant Kishor informed the court that he is ready to go to jail instead of taking conditional bail. Kishor had been on a hunger strike since January 2, protesting against the Bihar government's alleged use of force and other grievances. Earlier in the day, the police arrested Kishor from the Gandhi statue in Patna, where he was on hunger strike. He was placed in an ambulance for five hours and taken to multiple locations, including AIIMS Patna and the Fatua Community Hospital. He claimed that the AIIMS administration refused to admit him, and he rejected medical examinations at other facilities, calling them unnecessary. The Jan Suraj Party founder criticised the Bihar government, stating, "Public spaces like Gandhi Maidan should remain open for peaceful protests and expressions of dissent." His refusal to accept bail is a stance against policies he claims suppress democratic voices. He accused the government of using a "lathi-system" to silence dissent and vowed to continue his campaign to challenge the leadership of Nitish Kumar and the BJP. While addressing his followers, Kishor urged restraint: "Do not push or confront the police; they are merely following orders. This campaign is against the system, not the officers themselves." He has declared that his hunger strike, which entered its fifth day at the time of arrest, will continue even in jail. He reaffirmed his commitment to finding a resolution to the issues raised, including police actions against protesters and other grievances against the Bihar government. This development underscores escalating tensions between the Jan Suraj Party leader and the state government, with Kishor describing his arrest as a stand for democratic rights and justice. New Delhi, Jan 6 : On 31 October 2024, the EU-Bangladesh Sub-group on Good Governance and Human Rights met in Dhaka to discuss cooperation in strengthening human rights, good governance, and ongoing reforms under Bangladesh's interim government. Both parties acknowledged the opportunity for progress amidst the countryas political transition, particularly following the July/August uprising. The EU welcomed Bangladesh's commitment to reforms, including ratifying the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance and creating a Commission on enforced disappearances. They also discussed the importance of transitional justice and accountability for past human rights violations, emphasizing womenas and minority rights, electoral reforms, and labor rights. Bangladesh reaffirmed its dedication to democracy and human rights and shared its collaboration with the UN to address violations during the student-led movement. Both sides agreed on the need for continued cooperation in multilateral human rights fora. However, the ongoing violence against Hindus and other minority communities in Bangladesh, particularly after the government fell in August 2024, did not even find mention in the discussions. While the EU has previously called for addressing earlier atrocities, it failed to question or seek accountability for the recent surge of targeted violence. Since the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, Bangladesh has been engulfed in intense political and social turmoil, with devastating consequences for its religious minorities, particularly Hindus. The violence against communities, including attacks on homes, businesses, temples, and community leaders, has escalated to levels unseen since the 1971 genocide. Despite the grave human rights violations occurring, the European Union (EU), a significant global actor and one of Bangladesh's largest aid donors, has failed to take substantial action or effectively address the situation. Hindus, who now make up only 7.95% of Bangladesh's population, have been disproportionately targeted in this ongoing violence. Over 200 documented attacks on minorities have taken place across 52 districts since August. Community leaders of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) have been arrested on dubious charges of sedition. The situation has been further exacerbated by the actions of the interim government, which has overseen the release of radical Islamist elements convicted of terrorism, including members of Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT) and Jamaat-e-Islami leaders, has stirred fears of a resurgence of Islamic extremism. These actions contradict the secular foundations of Bangladesh and signal a disturbing drift toward authoritarianism. Yunus has delayed the holding of general elections and created a constitution-amending committee without democratic mandate, raising alarm about the countryas direction towards an undemocratic and potentially Taliban-like regime. The EU, despite being Bangladeshas largest export partner and a major aid donor, has largely remained silent. While the EU has engaged in a few bilateral meetings with the interim government, it has refrained from issuing any strong statements condemning the escalating violence and human rights abuses. This silence is deeply troubling, especially in contrast to the EUas usual approach of addressing crises and human rights violations in other regions. The European Parliament has failed to adopt a resolution condemning the systemic persecution of religious minorities in Bangladesh, including attacks on Hindus. This silence on growing authoritarianism and the lack of action to restore democratic processes raises serious concerns about the EUas commitment to human rights and democracy. The EUas inaction in the face of escalating religious persecution and political instability undermines its credibility as a defender of democratic values and risks destabilizing the region. It must act decisively, leveraging its influence to demand an end to the persecution of Hindus and other minorities, call for free and fair elections, and push for the restoration of democracy in Bangladesh. If the EU continues to ignore these atrocities, it risks losing its position as a global leader in promoting human rights and democracy. Such inaction could embolden extremist forces, further entrench authoritarianism, and destabilize the region, jeopardizing EU interests in Asia. Immediate action is essential to prevent Bangladesh from descending into chaos similar to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. (The writer is an author, columnist, and holds a Ph.D. in Sociology) New Delhi, Jan 6 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday asserted that the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership has scaled new heights, including in the areas of technology, defence, space, biotechnology and Artificial Intelligence (AI). PM Modi made the observation as the outgoing US National Security Advisor (NSA) Jake Sullivan called on him in New Delhi before wrapping up his two-day India visit. "It was a pleasure to meet the US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. The India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership has scaled new heights, including in the areas of technology, defence, space, biotechnology and Artificial Intelligence. Look forward to building upon this momentum in ties between our two democracies for the benefit of our people and global good," PM Modi posted on X after the meeting. According to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), Prime Minister Modi and Sullivan "positively assessed" the significant advancement in the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership over the last four years. As he reaffirmed his commitment to continue to solidify the close cooperation between the two countries, PM Modi also "deeply appreciated" a letter from President Biden handed over to him by NSA Sullivan. "Recalling his various meetings with President Biden, including during his visit to the US in September 2024 for the Quad Leaders' Summit, PM appreciated President Biden's contributions towards strengthening of the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, which leaves an enduring legacy," read the statement issued by the PMO. PM Modi also conveyed his best wishes to President Biden and the First Lady Jill Biden. Earlier in the day, Sullivan called on External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar to discuss a wide range of strategic, regional, and bilateral issues. "Delighted to meet US NSA Jake Sullivan in New Delhi today morning. Continued our ongoing discussions on deepening bilateral, regional and global cooperation. Valued the openness of our conversations in the last four years. Appreciated his personal contribution to forging a closer and stronger India-US partnership," said EAM Jaishankar. Both sides held discussions on a range of strategic, regional, and bilateral issues, including the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) during Sullivan's stay in the capital. Over the weekend,. the White House had stated that Sullivan is visiting India "for a capstone meeting" with Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval that will span a range of issues across the breadth of India-US partnership -- from space, defence, strategic technology cooperation, all the way also to shared security priorities in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. "This will be Mr. Sullivan's final trip to the Indo-Pacific region as National Security Advisor. He's very excited and looking forward to these conversations at this critical time," said White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby. The visit takes place just before US President Joe Biden leaves office on January 20, ahead of Donald Trump being sworn in as the country's 47th president. Both NSAs have acknowledged that the iCET, unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden in May 2022, would play a defining role in deepening the strategic partnership between the two countries. In June 2024, while addressing an iCET roundtable along with Sullivan, NSA Doval had spotlighted that India and the US must remain at the forefront of technology - especially in the areas of Artificial Intelligence (AI), semiconductors, bio-tech and other emerging technologies - to protect and defend their value systems. "iCET has achieved more than what we could imagine," said Doval, highlighting the progress made across the defence innovation roadmap and startups, while emphasising the importance of the growing semiconductor industry. Sullivan mentioned three key buckets for technology partnerships -- innovation, production and deployment -- stressing the need for government support for the private sector. "There exists bipartisan support for Indian industry in the US and building the ecosystem and supply chain manufacturing is the key to production," he told the industry leaders, last year. "The core of iCET is about the idea of India and US being able to support each other and to encourage greater collaboration in the technology ecosystem, jointly innovate and find solutions to challenges," said Sullivan. Chennai, Jan 6 : Two children in Chennai have tested positive for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and are recovering, officials said on Monday. Doctors stated that both cases are linked to common respiratory symptoms such as fever, cold, and cough. Tamil Nadu Health Department officials told IANS that proactive measures are being taken to prevent the further spread of the virus. They also said that the affected children are recovering well. The first case was reported at a private hospital in the Chetpet area, where a child was admitted with respiratory symptoms, including fever, cold, and cough. Following diagnostic tests, the child was confirmed to be infected with HMPV. Another child receiving treatment at a private paediatric hospital in Guindy also tested positive for the virus. Both children exhibited similar symptoms, which initially appeared to be typical seasonal illnesses but were later identified as HMPV after detailed medical evaluations. Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), first identified in 2001, is a respiratory virus primarily affecting young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. It belongs to the same family as the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and causes symptoms ranging from mild cold-like signs to severe respiratory illnesses, such as pneumonia and bronchitis. Common symptoms of HMPV include fever, cough, nasal congestion, shortness of breath, wheezing, and fatigue. Severe cases may require hospitalisation, particularly for vulnerable groups like infants and older adults. State Health Department officials are holding discussions to implement safety measures and preventive actions across Tamil Nadu. Both the HMPV virus and SARS-CoV-2 virus share similarities, as they cause respiratory diseases in people of all ages. Young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness. Both viruses spread through respiratory secretions from coughing and sneezing, close personal contact, touching contaminated objects or surfaces and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes. Currently, there is no vaccine for HMPV, and antiviral treatment is not recommended. --IANS aal/vd New Delhi, Jan 6 : Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena on Monday distributed 57 appointment letters to the survivors of 1984 anti-Sikh riots and their family members in the Tilak Vihar area. The move to provide government jobs brought smiles on the faces of 1984 riot victims as they said that this would bring some sort of closure to the pain and suffering, they endured for 40 long years. After handing over appointment letters, the L-G said that nobody could heal the wounds that they underwent 40 years ago, however, such efforts would do a great deal in bringing the affected families back into the mainstream. He also pointed out that for the first time in history, a 55-year-old person was being provided with a government job. Notably, a total of 88 persons have been shortlisted for government jobs out of which 57 were given appointment letters on Monday and the rest will be facilitated later. Earlier in the day, the Raj Niwas shared on X, "VK Saxena has given relaxation in educational qualification and age limit to the family members of 1984 Sikh riot victims, which will give opportunity to 88 applicants in government jobs. This is an important step towards justice and rehabilitation of victim families." Delhi Pradesh BJP President Virendra Sachdeva along with MP Kamaljit Sehrawat, Chief Secretary of Delhi Government Dharmendra Kumar and Divisional Commissioner of Revenue Department were also present on the occasion. Many beneficiaries of Mata Gujri Devi Colony of Tilak Nagar spoke to IANS, expressing their happiness over receiving appointment letters. A woman beneficiary said, "103 people have got recruitment letters in two instalments. The wounds of the 1984 riots can never be forgotten but this will come as a great solace for those who are living in penury." "We are very thankful to LG for this. He stated clearly that no one is obliged to follow anyone's directions as the city government has taken charge of the whole project," she added. Kulwant Kaur told IANS that this was a very good development. "We have been denied our due for long but with this, a healing process will begin. We can't forget those days of brutality and hardship. "I thank the government for extending the benefits to us," she said. Pradeep Singh said, "It was long overdue, still if the government has begun this, it's a good and welcome move. Appointment will enable the community to contribute to the nation's growth." Honey Singh said, "I am very happy to receive the appointment letter, it's happening after 40 years. Justice is being delivered after such a long time. We are grateful to the government." New Delhi, Jan 6 : The National Cadet Corps (NCC) represents a mini-India that would lead the country into Viksit Bharat, Indian Navy chief, Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi said on Monday. During his address at the NCC Republic Day Camp 2025 in Delhi Cantonment, he lauded the NCC cadets for their high standards of display and immaculate turnout. The Navy chief highlighted the collaboration between the NCC and the Navy as a shining example of synergy and partnership. He mentioned that in the past year, more than 200 cadets underwent training at the Indian Naval Academy at Ezhimala; 100 cadets underwent yachting training at Goa, Kochi and Vizag; nearly 250 cadets underwent sea training at Vizag and Mumbai; 20 cadets sailed the ship of 1 Training Squadron and visited 10 countries as part of Over Seas Deployment (OSD); and 150 cadets undertook Sea Sailing on board INSV Tarangini from Mumbai to Vizag. He further encouraged the cadets to carry the ethos of NCC to each and every corner of the country with high spirit and enthusiasm. The navy chief also applauded the NCCas community development programmes, like Swachhta Pakhwada, tree plantation drives, blood donation camps, cancer awareness programmes and initiatives like aPuneet Sagar Abhiyana which raise social awareness and contribute to nation-building. Admiral Tripathi complimented the DG NCC, for demonstrating exemplary vision and leadership in raising the profile of NCC. He also reiterated Swami Vivekanandaas thought of aArise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reacheda to the cadets and stated that as a nation with one of the youngest populations in the world, NCC represents a mini-India that would lead the country into Viksit Bharat. Admiral Tripathi exhorted that the motto of Unity and discipline, and the core values of patriotism, commitment and social service that the cadets imbibe in this camp, would help them develop into model citizens. He gave a mantra to the cadets that to succeed and achieve the aim, one must have a blend of attitude and aptitude, self-belief, character and commitment and self-discipline. He quoted the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi - aIt is because of the power of the youth like you that the whole world looks at India with hope and expectationsa. The Chief of the Naval Staff further stated that the Navy also organised the All India Nausainik Camp at INS Shivaji, Lonavala and the All India Yachting Regatta at INS Chilka under which cadets visited diverse countries on OSDs on naval ships to gain global exposure. He praised the participation by NCC cadets in the Coastal Security Exercise aSea Vigila in large numbers and assured NCC cadets of continued support from the Navy in conducting Naval Wing training activities. As part of the event, the CNS visited the aHall of Famea where he was briefed about the rich embodiment of NCCas history, shown all three dedicated sections of the Army, Navy and Air Force and briefed about the training and the achievements. He also witnessed a cultural performance by cadets in the NCC Auditorium. Kolkata, Jan 6 : The Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata celebrated 100 glorious years of its operation on December 21, 2024. Marking the occasion, a budget-friendly cafe named 'UDAN Yatri Cafe' was launched at the Kolkata Airport by the Union Minister of Civil Aviation and the Airports Authority of India (AAI). Launched as a pilot project, the cafe offers budget-friendly food options for travellers. According to the menu, passengers can get a water bottle and tea for just Rs 10 each, while coffee, samosa and sweet of the day cost Rs 20. The launch of the budget cafe has left the flyers and air passengers delighted. Many of them shared their excitement and happiness on the same. Dharmendra Joshi, a flyer spoke to IANS and said that this was a dream come true for many passengers like him. "I have seen this for the first time. I haven't seen it anywhere in the country. I bought four water bottles and four samosas and paid a total of just Rs 120," he said. "It's a very welcome decision by the Civil Aviation Ministry. Other airports in the country should follow this model," he added. Badal, a salesman at Udan Yatri Cafe informed that the budget shop was launched on 21st December 2024. "Tea, water bottle price is Rs 10 and Coffee, Gulab jamun and samosa are priced at Rs 20. Everyone is appreciating the initiative," he said. Dr Pravat Ranjan Beuria, Airport Director of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport too spoke about the improvement in passenger amenities and convenience after the cafe's launch. "It is a matter of great pleasure to inform you that Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport recently completed 100 years. On this occasion, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu ji inaugurated the Udan Yatri Cafe at the airport. This is a budget-friendly cafe, in which this facility is available at reasonable and affordable prices for passengers travelling at the airport. The prices are very cheap and reasonable." Notably, the launch of the budget cafe at Kolkata airport followed Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha's forceful argument in Parliament, for reining in the overpriced food and beverages cost at the airports and the need to make air travel affordable for everyone. Russian sources have expressed concern about the ability of the Russian army to respond to Ukraine's ongoing army-wide efforts to integrate electronic warfare (EW) capabilities. In particular, the ability of Ukrainian forces to conduct long-range strikes alongside ground operations. ADVERTISIMENT Propagandists spread panic in this regard on January 5, when the Armed Forces of Ukraine attacked Russian troops in several directions in the Kursk region of the Russian Federation. This was reported by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW). Several Russian pro-war bloggers said that the electronic warfare obstacles created by the Ukrainian military during the offensive in the Kursk region did not allow Russian forces to use drones in the area. This "worsened the ability of Russian forces to defend themselves" against Ukrainian mechanized attacks. One propagandist stated that one of the few variants of Russian drones that consistently counter Ukrainian electronic warfare measures are UAVs with fiber optic cables. However, some of his colleagues claimed that the Russian Armed Forces were able to use FPV drones and Lancets for this purpose. ADVERTISIMENT On January 5, Russian officials said that their military had "shot down three" Ukrainian drones over the Kursk region. "This suggests that the Armed Forces are trying to integrate long-range strike capabilities with ground operations and tactical electronic warfare systems," ISW noted. A Russian blogger claimed that Ukrainian forces had launched HIMARS strikes near Bolshoye Soldatskoye and other unspecified areas in Kursk to prevent Russian forces from deploying reinforcements, artillery systems, and UAV operator units. According to analysts, such widespread concern by the aggressor about the ability of Russian forces to respond to improved Ukrainian electronic warfare technology and long-range strike capabilities indicates that the Russian army may have difficulty quickly adapting to Ukrainian innovations on the battlefield. ADVERTISIMENT "Reports that the Ukrainian Armed Forces are using long-range fire to cover Russian rear areas and electronic warfare to reduce the effectiveness of Russian drones in support of their mechanized offensives indicate that Ukrainian forces operating in Kursk are using more effective combined arms tactics," ISW stated. As reported by OBOZ.UA, on January 5, the Ukrainian Defense Forces attacked Russian troops in the Kursk region in several directions. Russian propagandists complained about the mechanized attacks of Ukrainian forces and their advance near Sudzha towards the village of Bolshoye Soldatskoye. The Ministry of Defense of the aggressor country of the Russian Federation had to recognize the beginning of a new offensive by the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the Kursk region. It stated that Ukrainian forces had launched a counterattack, allegedly to stop the Russian offensive. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! New Delhi, Jan 6 : US National Security Advisor (NSA) Jake Sullivan on Monday emphasised efforts of the outgoing Biden administration in finalising necessary steps to delist Indian nuclear entities to promote civil nuclear cooperation and resilient clean energy supply chains. Sullivan met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his Indian counterpart NSA Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Monday during his farewell two-day India visit ahead of Donald Trump being sworn in as the 47th president of the United States on January 20. He was accompanied by a delegation of senior US government officials. During their meeting, the two NSAs, who have engaged regularly in a high-level dialogue through extensive discussions on a broad bilateral, regional and global agenda, reviewed the ongoing progress in their high-level dialogue, including in diverse fields such as defence, cyber and maritime security. "US NSA Jake Sullivan briefed the Indian side on the updates brought out by the Biden administration to US missile export control policies under the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) that will boost US commercial space cooperation with India. Reflecting the progress the United States and India have madea"and will continue to makea"as strategic partners and countries with a shared commitment to peaceful nuclear cooperation, NSA Sullivan announced US efforts to finalize necessary steps to delist Indian nuclear entities, which will promote civil nuclear cooperation and resilient clean energy supply chains," read a joint press statement issued by both countries following the Sullivan-Doval meeting. Both NSAs have acknowledged that the iCET, unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden on the side lines of the Quad Summit in Tokyo in May 2022, would play a defining role in deepening the strategic partnership between the two countries. Since then, the two NSAs have driven concrete initiatives between the two countries across a range of areas including Artificial Intelligence, quantum computing, semiconductors, telecommunications, defence and space. Sullivan also called on PM Modi and handed over to him a letter from President Biden. During their meeting, Prime Minister Modi asserted that the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership has scaled new heights, including in the areas of technology, defence, space, biotechnology and Artificial Intelligence (AI). "It was a pleasure to meet the US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. The India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership has scaled new heights, including in the areas of technology, defence, space, biotechnology and Artificial Intelligence. Look forward to building upon this momentum in ties between our two democracies for the benefit of our people and global good," PM Modi posted on X. According to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), Prime Minister Modi and Sullivan "positively assessed" the significant advancement in the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership over the last four years. "Recalling his various meetings with President Biden, including during his visit to the US in September 2024 for the Quad Leadersa Summit, PM appreciated President Bidenas contributions towards strengthening of the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, which leaves an enduring legacy," read the statement issued by the PMO. PM Modi also conveyed his best wishes to President Biden and the First Lady Jill Biden. Earlier in the day, Sullivan called on EAM S. Jaishankar to discuss a wide range of strategic, regional, and bilateral issues. "Delighted to meet US NSA Jake Sullivan in New Delhi today morning. Continued our ongoing discussions on deepening bilateral, regional and global cooperation. Valued the openness of our conversations in the last four years. Appreciated his personal contribution to forging a closer and stronger India-US partnership," said EAM Jaishankar. Both sides held discussions on a range of strategic, regional, and bilateral issues, including the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) during Sullivan's stay in the capital. Kolkata, Jan 6 : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee met the 95 Indian fishermen who returned from Bangladesh on Monday and urged them not to venture close to the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) while fishing in the Bay of Bengal. Banerjee, who was on an official visit to Sagar Island to review preparations for the forthcoming Gangasagar Mela, had announced in advance that she would meet the fishermen as well. The fishermen, from Kakdwip in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district, were arrested by the Bangladesh Coast Guard in October and November 2024, for allegedly fishing in Bangladeshi waters. Six Indian fishing vessels were also seized by the Bangladeshi authorities. The Indian fishermen were returned by Bangladesh on Sunday after a mutual repatriation agreement between the two countries. India returned 90 Bangladeshi fishermen in return. Twelve of them had drifted into Indian waters after their trawler capsized. Two Bangladeshi fishing trawlers were also returned by India. "On Dec 9, 2024, in a significant operation aimed at safeguarding maritime security, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) apprehended two Bangladeshi fishing trawlers "FV Laila-2" and "FV Meghna-5" along with 78 fishermen. These fishermen were engaged in fishing in Indian waters. The Indian government accorded approval for the repatriation of the 78 fishermen along with two Bangladeshi fishing boats. In addition to this, the 12-member crew of the sunken Bangladesh fishing boat 'Kausik' were also to be returned," a Ministry of Defence (MoD) spokesperson in Kolkata said. Accordingly, Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Varad and ICGS Amrit Kaur escorted the 90 Bangladeshi fishermen to the IMBL on Sunday. After signing documents onboard the Bangladesh Coast Guard Ship Kamaruzzaman, ICGS Varad and ICGS Amrut Kaur departed for Sagar Island with the 95 Indian fishermen. These fishermen were formally handed over by the ICG to the district magistrate of South 24 Parganas district at Sagar Island at 11:30 a.m. on Monday. "The operation underscores the mutual efforts of the Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian government, the West Bengal government and the Indian Coast Guard in maintaining maritime relations between India and Bangladesh," the MoD spokesperson added. West Bengal CM said that India and Bangladesh share friendly relations. She was anguished though about the health conditions of some of the Indian fishermen who were limping. The fishermen claimed that they were beaten up after their capture by the Bangladeshi authorities. The Chief Minister said that this is in contrast to how India treated the Bangladeshi fishermen caught fishing in Indian waters. They were provided medical attention and proper food during their detention period, she added. New Delhi, Jan 6 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who met Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella on Monday, said he was glad to know about the tech giant's ambitious expansion and investment plans in India. New Delhi, Jan 6 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who met Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella on Monday, said he was glad to know about the tech giantas ambitious expansion and investment plans in India. In a post on social media platform X, PM Modi said: "It was indeed a delight to meet you, @satyanadella! Glad to know about Microsoft's ambitious expansion and investment plans in India. It was also wonderful discussing various aspects of tech, innovation and AI in our meeting". Nadella thanked the Prime Minister for his leadership. "Excited to build on our commitment to making India AI-first and work together on our continued expansion in the country to ensure every Indian benefits from this AI platform shift," said the Microsoft CEO. Microsoft is empowering the fast-growing developer community in India to not only build products and services for the country but also for the world. Microsoft, at the end of the day, is a developer company and India holds the biggest promise in creating AI-based products on the company's AI-powered platform GitHub. "India which is currently second to the US will have the largest developer community on GitHub by 2027. The country is currently second among the top 10 global communities creating the most generative AI projects on GitHub," Nadella said last year. He stated that 10 per cent of Indiaas $5 trillion economy goal by 2025 will be led by AI. Microsoft is going to provide AI skilling opportunities to 2 million people in India by 2025. India launched the IndiaAI mission last year to enhance AI-related developments in the country. The Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Modi, approved an allocation of over Rs 10,300 crore for the IndiaAI Mission, marking a significant step towards bolstering the AI ecosystem in the country. a"IANS na/vd New Delhi, Jan 6 : There is nothing to worry about the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), said the World Health Organisation's former Chief Scientist, Dr Soumya Swaminathan on Monday, even as two more cases have been detected in the country, taking the tally to 5. She noted that the virus is not new and causes only mild infections. "#HMPvirus is nothing to panic about. Itas a known virus that causes respiratory infections, mostly mild," Swaminathan said in a post on social media platform X. Warning people to not jump at the detection of every pathogen, she listed out precautionary measures like washing hands. "Rather than jump at detection of every pathogen, we should all take normal precautions when we have a cold: wear a mask, wash hands, avoid crowds, consult a doctor in case of severe symptoms," the noted scientist said. She noted that as per ICMR, HMPV accounts for about 3 per cent of respiratory pathogens detected in the laboratory network, testing influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) cases. Influenza A & B, SARSCoV2 and RSV are other circulating viruses, she said, adding "no deaths reported in India so far". The expert's assurance comes even as five children tested positive for the virus in Karnataka (2), Gujarat (1), and Tamil Nadu (2) on Monday. All the affected children are recovering well, while one has been discharged, the health authorities said. Meanwhile, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda, addressing the media, said that the government is "closely monitoring the situation in China as well as in the neighbouring countries". He assured that "there is no reason to worry". HMPV was first discovered in 2001 and is part of the Pneumoviridae family along with the RSV. The symptoms commonly associated with HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. Lucknow, Jan 6 : The Chandigarh University (CU) on Monday announced the establishment of a first-of-its-kind Artificial Intelligence (AI) enabled next-gen futuristic campus at Unnao in Uttar Pradesh, to provide AI-augmented multidisciplinary education. The AI-augmented University campus at Unnao (in Lucknow state capital region) is 'tailored' to the evolving needs of 21st-century learners and promises to revolutionise the country's educational landscape with 43 futuristic undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. These programmes will be offered across six streams including Engineering, Business Administration, Health and Life Sciences, Humanities, Liberal Arts and Legal Studies from the 2025-26 academic year. Uttar Pradesh government had earlier issued an 'Authorization Letter' to Chandigarh University for its AI-integrated campus at Unnao. The information was shared at a press conference at the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, where UP higher education minister Yogendra Upadhyay launched the Chandigarh University Lucknow web portal and prospectus for the 2025-26 academic session. Speaking on the occasion, Yogendra Upadhyay said, "Uttar Pradesh is on track to become a $1 trillion economy within the next five years as the State's GDP is projected to reach Rs 32 lakh crore by March 2025, positioning it as the fastest-growing economy in India and creating employment opportunities for 1.5 crore youth. In the past seven years, the state's economy, GDP, and per capita income have more than doubled due to the double engine government." He further said that Uttar Pradesh is becoming an educational hub in higher education with the establishment of 16 new universities and over 250 colleges in underserved regions over the past seven years under CM Yogi Adityanath's leadership. "It is a proud moment for us that Chandigarh University has established its AI-enabled campus in Uttar Pradesh. The timing of launching an AI-integrated university in Uttar Pradesh could not be more ideal as the state government is already establishing India's first AI City in an area of over 70 acres in Lucknow," the minister stated. Upadhyay said Chandigarh University's AI-integrated campus perfectly aligns with the UP government's ambitions for AI-driven growth by preparing skilled manpower. "The arrival of a world-class education provider like Chandigarh University means that students in Uttar Pradesh can now access quality learning without having to leave their home state, making education more accessible and affordable for all," he added. Member of Parliament, Satnam Singh Sandhu said, "As Prime Minister Narendra Modi recognises the transformative power of AI, India was one of the first countries to develop a comprehensive strategy through the National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence." "India, as the fastest-growing economy with the second-largest population in the world, has a crucial stake in the ongoing AI revolution and Uttar Pradesh has taken a big step in this direction by establishing India's first AI City in Lucknow," he added. "As Chancellor of Chandigarh University, I convey my sincere gratitude to CM Yogi for extending pro-active support for the establishment of Chandigarh University Campus. Uttar Pradesh has been playing a key role in making PM Modi's Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign a success and contributing to the nation's goal of achieving a $5 trillion economy for becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047. With tremendous growth in various sectors, Uttar Pradesh has emerged as the next growth engine for India," the MP added. Sandhu said Uttar Pradesh holds a unique position in India's higher education sector, with a young population that is expected to play a key role in shaping the nation's future. "Currently, with an average age of 21 years, which is projected to rise to 26 years by 2030, the state will contribute 16.5 per cent to India's youth population. However, Uttar Pradesh's Gross Enrolment Rate (GER) is currently 25.6 per cent and it is essential to increase this figure to 50 per cent by 2035, as outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP). The establishment of Chandigarh University in Uttar Pradesh aims to address the growing demand for higher education in the state," he said. Chandigarh University Managing Director, Jai Inder Singh Sandhu, said the Chandigarh University Common Entrance Test (CUCET 2025) portal is now open for registrations for those seeking admission to the Uttar Pradesh Campus of the university in the 2025-26 academic year. "CUCET is a national-level entrance and scholarship test that recognises academic excellence and provides financial assistance, of up to 100 per cent through scholarships. During the 2025-26 academic session, scholarships worth Rs 40 crore will be awarded to students at Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh campus. Additionally, the university will offer Rs 3 crore 'CV Raman Scholarship' to support students pursuing careers in scientific research," he said. Notably, Chandigarh University was ranked number 1 among India's private universities in QS Asia University Rankings 2025. Chandigarh University was also ranked 20th among India's all government and private universities in the NIRF Rankings 2024. Abu Dhabi, Jan 6 : Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), on Monday met with visiting Syria's interim Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani on bilateral ties and developments in Syria. The two sides discussed ways to enhance the "strong fraternal" bilateral relations in areas of mutual interest, reviewed the overall developments in Syria and the current regional situation, and addressed "several issues of mutual concern," the UAE Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Sheikh Abdullah "reaffirmed the UAE's steadfast stance in supporting Syria's independence and sovereignty over its entire territory" and voiced the country's "solidarity with the Syrian people and its support for all regional and international efforts aimed at fulfilling their aspirations for security, peace, stability, and a dignified life," it said. Following the meeting, Syria's interim Foreign Ministry posted four photos on social media platform X showing al-Shibani shaking hands and having talks with Sheikh Abdullah. According to the two ministries, the meeting was also attended by senior officials from both sides, including defence ministers of the two countries, Xinhua news agency reported. The visit is part of al-Shibani's ongoing regional tour aimed at bolstering Syria's stability, security, and economic recovery. Syria's interim Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani has underscored his country's commitment to forging positive foreign relations across the region. In a series of posts on social media platform X, al-Shibani emphasised that Syria's new administration will adopt foreign policies that differ markedly from those implemented by the previous government. He made the remarks after talks with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani and Qatari Minister of State at the Foreign Ministry Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi in Doha, which al-Shibani described as "thorough and extensive." Al-Shibani explained that key strategic issues were discussed and a roadmap for rebuilding Syria and empowering citizens was presented during the talks. "We seek to form a Syrian government representing all segments of society," he said. He praised Qatar's "prominent role" in supporting Syrians amid the recent unrest and in the current stage of Syria's reconstruction, describing the Gulf nation as a "strategic partner." Al-Shibani also highlighted Damascus's desire to "mend ties with the Arab and international community," setting aside what he called the "old regime's approach," and stressed that Syria aims for "peaceful and cooperative relations that foster principles of justice, freedom, and equality" for every citizen. The minister also urged the US to lift sanctions on the Syrian people, which he said primarily slow the pace of building a "new Syria." Berlin, Jan 6 : Global air crash fatalities rose sharply in 2024, with 334 lives lost in civil aviation accidents, German media reported on Monday, citing the preliminary data released by the German Aviation Association (BDL). The fatalities included passengers, crew members, and seven individuals on the ground, it said. This figure marks a significant increase, more than quadrupling the 80 deaths recorded in 2023. The statistics account for accidents involving aircraft with a seating capacity of at least 14 passengers. Data for smaller aircraft incidents were not immediately available, and accidents involving military aircraft were excluded from the report. While the BDL reported a rise in air accidents since reaching a record low in 2017, it said that aviation safety has made great progress over the decades, and long-term trends still point to a steady decline in accident rates. "Flying was approximately 53 times safer last year compared to the 1970s," said BDL Managing Director Joachim Lang, Xinhua news agency reported. The most catastrophic air tragedy of 2024 occurred on December 29, when a Boeing 737-800 operated by South Korea's Jeju Air crashed during landing. The crash claimed 179 passenger lives. Investigations into the cause of the accident are ongoing. Earlier in the day, the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) stated that fatal light aircraft crashes claimed 27 lives in 20 unnecessary accidents last year in Australia after two consecutive years of recording 33 deaths. Despite the decrease in the number of fatalities, the spate of fatal crashes in 2024 caused concern about the future of the hobby aircraft sector, and aviation experts are calling for more thorough investigations into recreational aircraft accidents, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) on Monday. Aviation consultant and training officer Lorraine MacGillivray said she wanted to see more air crash investigations and less red tape for pilot training following the death of five people in a string of crashes in the state of Victoria between September and November last year, the ABC reported. However, large passenger carriers received priority when determining what was investigated, said the ATSB Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell, adding the risk of a fatality was greater around Australia's 2,300 non-towered aerodromes, calling for pilots to remain vigilant to boost safety. The ATSB said it could investigate around 70 aviation, maritime, and rail incidents annually, but was notified of more than 8,000 incidents each year, Xinhua news agency reported. Tehran, Jan 6 : Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said on Monday that the country is ready for negotiations "based on honour and dignity" to address concerns about its nuclear program and lift sanctions. He made the remarks at a weekly press conference in Tehran, in reply to a question about the likelihood of negotiations between Iran and the United States. Baghaei said Iran always believes in dialogue, stressing that Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi had explicitly declared the country's latest position that "we are ready for dignity and honor-based negotiations on lifting sanctions and removing concerns about the nature of Iran's nuclear programme." "This is our fixed position. However, the form of (any potential) negotiations should be decided after considering all aspects including other sides' approaches and performances," Baghaei added. He noted that the new round of talks between Tehran and the E3 group of France, Britain, and Germany would be held in Geneva, Switzerland, on January 13-14, during which a range of issues, including developments in West Asia, bilateral ties with the European Union, Iran's nuclear program, and removal of the sanctions on Tehran, would be discussed, Xinhua news agency reported. Iran signed a nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), with world powers in July 2015, agreeing to put some curbs on its nuclear program in return for the removal of sanctions. The United States, however, pulled out of the deal in May 2018 and reimposed sanctions on Iran, prompting Tehran to scale back its commitments under the deal. The talks to revive the JCPOA began in April 2021 in Vienna, Austria. Despite several rounds of talks, no significant breakthrough has been achieved. Tokyo, Jan 6 : Japan's Nippon Steel and United States Steel have jointly filed a lawsuit against the US government over President Joe Biden's decision to block the buyout of the American steelmaker by the Japanese company, local media reported Monday. The two steelmakers are seeking a review of the deal by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), calling Biden's order "unlawful political interference," public broadcaster NHK reported. The case was filed in the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. The two firms also filed a second lawsuit against Cleveland-Cliffs, its CEO Lourenco Goncalves, and USW union President David McCall "for their illegal and coordinated actions" aimed at preventing the deal. Meanwhile, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba warned Monday of potential repercussions for bilateral trade following Biden's decision, adding he would seek clarification regarding the national security risk cited by Biden. "Unfortunately, it is true that the Japanese business circles have voiced concern over future investments between Japan and the US," Ishiba said at his first press conference of the year. Japan's Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yoji Muto also told reporters Monday that the president's decision is "extremely regrettable and hard to understand," adding the Japanese government will continue asking the Biden administration to clear concerns among the business communities in the two countries. Nippon Steel and US Steel agreed on the takeover in December 2023. The CFIUS reviewed the deal, but failed to reach a consensus. It was then referred to Biden, Xinhua news agency reported. Biden said Friday that he has decided to block the 14.1 billion US dollars sale of US Steel to Nippon Steel, citing risks to national security, while urging the two companies to "fully and permanently" abandon their plan. The Japanese steel giant, the world's fourth-largest by production volume, will hold a press conference detailing their case on Tuesday. New Delhi, Jan 6 : Congress MPs Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed grief over the killing of security personnel in a gruesome Maoist attack in Chhattisgarh on Monday. Eight District Reserve Guard (DRG) jawans and one driver lost their lives after their vehicle was blown up by Maoists using an IED in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur. "I am deeply saddened to hear about the cowardly Naxalite attack in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, which led to the martyrdom of several of our soldiers and a vehicle driver," Rahul Gandhi wrote in Hindi on X. "I pay my heartfelt tribute to the martyrs and wish a speedy recovery to the injured soldiers. In this difficult time, my thoughts are with the grieving families. The entire nation stands united against terrorism and violence. The increasing martyrdom of soldiers raises serious questions about the government's ability to maintain national security," said Rahul in the post. Priyanka Gandhi also wrote a message in Hindi and posted on X, "The news of the martyrdom of a large number of soldiers in the Naxalite attack in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh is deeply saddening. The entire nation stands united against terrorism and condemns it in the strongest terms. May God grant peace to the departed souls. My heartfelt condolences to the grieving families. I wish for the speedy recovery of the injured." At least nine people, including eight jawans from the Dantewada District Reserve Guard (DRG), were killed when their vehicle was targeted by Naxals in an IED blast in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, on Monday. The incident happened just days after five insurgents were killed in an encounter between security forces and Maoists in Bastar. Initially, four rebels were found dead on Sunday, and one more body was recovered later. In recent days, air alerts have become more frequent in Ukraine due to the threat of enemy ballistic missile attacks from the north. This is due to the active offensive actions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the Kursk region of the Russian Federation. ADVERTISIMENT The alarm sounds every time the enemy launches missiles. Bucha Live writes about it. "The Russians in the Kursk region are trying to actively shoot down the "gifts" of our military with their air defense systems and respond by shelling the border area. Accordingly, as soon as the exits from enemy operational and tactical missile systems (OTMS) are detected, we are alerted to the threat of ballistics. According to ISW, on the morning of January 6, the Ukrainian army broke through in three areas in the Kursk region. Ukrainian troops conducted mechanized attacks with armored vehicles, advancing south and southwest of Berdin, and entering the southern part of the town. ADVERTISIMENT The Ukrainian armed forces also intensified their offensive in the area of Leonidove. They attacked near Pushkarnoye, east of Sudzha. "Ukrainian forces are using long-range fire to block Russian rear areas and electronic warfare systems to suppress Russian drones supporting the Ukrainian mechanized units' offensive. This indicates that the Armed Forces of Ukraine operating in the Kursk region are using more effective tactics of general warfare," analysts of the Institute for War Studies noted. As reported by OBOZ.UA: Ukrainian soldiers are comprehensively destroying the enemy in the Kursk region. During one of the combat missions, the Armed Forces of Ukraine cleared the positions of Russian and North Korean troops, causing them losses. The corresponding video was published on the official social networks of the Armed Forces. The deputy commander of the unmanned systems battalion of the 36th Separate Mechanized Brigade, nicknamed "Wulf," said that DPRK soldiers are easy prey for Ukrainian drones in the Kursk region. According to him, this is because the North Korean military does not know the specifics of drone warfare. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that on January 3-4, the Armed Forces of Ukraine eliminated almost a battalion of DPRK soldiers and Russian marines near the village of Makhnovka in the Kursk region. The Head of State expressed gratitude to the Special Operations Forces and the soldiers of the 80th separate airborne assault brigade for their professionalism and efficiency. Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Bhubaneswar, Jan 6 : External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday reached Bhubaneswar on a five-day Odisha visit to attend the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas scheduled to be held here between January 8 and 10. EAM Jaishankar was welcomed by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Deputy CM Pravati Parida, former Union minister and Balasore MP Pratap Chandra Sarangi at the Bhubaneswar airport on Monday evening. As per the schedule, Jaishankar later headed to Eco Retreat at Konark for a night halt. He is scheduled to visit the world-famous Konark Sun Temple on Tuesday morning. Jaishankar is also likely to visit the 12th century Jagannath temple at Puri, Heritage crafts village of Raghurajpur in Puri, Dhauli Shanti Stupa (Peace Pagoda), Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday. He will attend the three-day Pravasi Bharatiya Divas at Janata Maidan starting on January 8. "I am confident that the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas will be celebrated in a grand way. Chief Minister Mohan Majhi has told me that all the preparations for the 3-day event have been completed. I hope that the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas will be a grand success in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi," Jaishankar told media persons on Monday. With PBD shifting its venue to the Eastern part of the country for the first time, this affirms and reinforces the Centre's commitment to taking forward its 'Purvodaya' project, conceived for the all-round development of the Eastern region comprising states like Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal. Notably, Odisha's rich reserve of minerals and natural resources will go a long way in taking forward this mission. The state leads all its counterparts in fields like mining, iron and steel manufacturing, marine economy, sports, skilling and even knowledge economy. Several Indian IT companies have established bases in the state. The PBD event would be an opportunity to showcase what the state has to offer to the world. Like every year, the PBD celebrations in Bhubaneshwar, from January 8-10 will showcase the vibrancy of the Indian diaspora and their achievements abroad. Also, exhibitions on Ramayana, Technology and Diaspora are being organised to spotlight the contributions of the Indian diaspora and how they acted as a vehicle for the promotion of Indian culture, values and ethos abroad. The Ramayana exhibition would showcase how the epic travelled to countries in South-East Asia where they still remain a vast attraction for the locals as well as foreign tourists. New Delhi, Jan 6 : About 1.48 lakh new tuberculosis (TB) cases have been identified in the first 30 days of the 100-day TB elimination campaign, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda said on Monday. The 100-day TB elimination campaign was launched in December 2024 to intensify progress towards ending the disease. The campaign focusing on 347 high-burden districts in 33 states, aimed to improve case detection, reduce diagnostic delays, and boost treatment outcomes. "More than 2 crore people screened; 1.48 lakh new TB cases identified in the first 30 days of the campaign," said Nadda, while chairing the Joint Strategy Meeting with 21 Line Ministries for TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan at Vigyan Bhawan here. Nadda stated that "Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave the clarion call to eliminate TB from the country by 2025, much before the 2030 deadline of the Sustainable Development Goals 2030." He highlighted the strides made by India in the direction of eliminating TB, as reflected in the recent WHO report. "The reduction in TB cases in India has been 17.7 per cent which is almost double that of the global reduction. The treatment coverage has increased from 53 per cent to 85 per cent while there has been a 21.4 per cent decline in the death rate due to TB from 28 lakhs to 22 lakhs," the Health Minister said, citing the WHO report. Nadda stated that the campaign exemplifies a united approach to TB elimination, leveraging the strengths of diverse stakeholders. The Union Health Minister urged for collaborative efforts under a whole-of-government approach to fulfil the target of eliminating TB by 2025. "Sustained partnerships, active participation, and a nationwide commitment are essential to achieving the ambitious goal of a TB-Free India," he added. Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Anupriya Patel stressed the importance of field activities to engage and mobilise the masses through innovative activities. Various Ministries, including Women and Child Development, informed their contribution to the campaign; and assured their efforts to strengthen the fight support to eliminate TB. "Since the launch of the campaign, more than 14 lakh Anganwadi workers are contributing to ensure nutrition in the rural areas through the Poshan Maah and Poshan Pakhwara activities that can ensure nutrition to the affected patients," WCD Minister Annapurna Devi said. "Their active role in eliminating the stigma related to TB prevalent in rural areas will motivate people to come forward for TB screenings." New Delhi, Jan 6 : The Centre on Monday cleared the appointment of judges in the High Courts of Delhi and Uttarakhand. In a post on X, Union Minister for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal announced that President Droupadi Murmu has appointed advocates Ajay Digpaul and Harish Vaidyanathan Shankar as judges of the Delhi High Court, and judicial officer Ashish Naithani as a judge of the Uttarakhand High Court. "In exercise of the power conferred by clause (1) of Article 217 of the Constitution of India, the President is pleased to appoint S/Shri (i) Ajay Digpaul and (ii) Harish Vaidyanathan Shankar to be Judges of the Delhi High Court, in that order of seniority, with effect from the date they assume charge of their respective offices," said a notification issued by the Union Ministry of Law and Justice. A separate notification read: "In exercise of the power conferred by clause (1) of Article 217 of the Constitution of India, the President is pleased to appoint Shri Ashish Naithani to be a Judge of the High Court of Uttarakhand with effect from the date he assumes charge of his office." In its meeting held on December 22, 2024, the Supreme Court Collegium also approved the proposal for the appointment of judicial officer Naithani as a judge of the Uttarakhand High Court. In August last year, the SC Collegium headed by then Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud had recommended the elevation of advocates Digpaul, Shankar, and Shwetasree Majumder as judges in the Delhi High Court. The apex court Collegium had said that it consulted other SC judges conversant with the affairs of the Delhi High Court to ascertain the fitness and suitability of these candidates, adding that it perused the observations made by the Department of Justice in the file and evaluated the materials placed on record. Advocate Digpaul, who appeared in 42 reported judgments delivered by the Delhi High Court, has considerable experience of 31 years in several branches of law including civil, criminal, constitutional, labour, company, service and commercial law with specialisation in civil and criminal cases. "Our sole consultee-Judge has given a positive opinion on the suitability of the candidate for appointment as a Judge of the High Court. The inputs provided by the Department of Justice in the file indicate that his professional competence is viewed to be good and there is nothing adverse regarding his integrity," noted the SC Collegium. Advocate Shankar has extensive practice which is reflected in 180 reported judgments delivered in the cases in which he argued, said the apex court Collegium, adding that the inputs provided by the Department of Justice in the file indicate that his professional competence is viewed to be good and there is nothing adverse about his integrity. However, the Centre has not yet notified the appointment of advocate Majumder whose elevation was also recommended in the same resolution. New Delhi, Jan 6 : IIT Delhi hosted Jake Sullivan, the US National Security Advisor (NSA), on Monday as the latter said that both countries are working together to build next-generation semiconductors further boosting the diplomatic partnership between the two allies. Speaking at the event hosted by IIT Delhi, Sullivan said, "Being here at IIT Delhi with young technologists, entrepreneurs and policymakers who will take this generational project forward, I have every reason to believe that within the next decade, we will see American and Indian firms working together to build the next generation of semiconductor technologies, American and Indian astronauts' conducting cutting-edge research and space exploration together, American and Indian researchers contributing to a new explosion and lifesaving vaccines, American and Indian engineering students developing innovations together right here at IIT Delhi, and American and Indian leaders propelling our partnership and our future torque with the American statesman and scientists." IIT Delhi hosted this programme in collaboration with the I-Hub Foundation for Cobotics (IHFC), the technology innovation hub of IIT Delhi, said IIT Delhi Director, Rangan Banerjee, who highlighted the ongoing linkages between the American institutions and IIT Delhi, with several bilateral collaborations. Out of IIT Delhi's 4000+ publications in the last year, more than 25 per cent were with international collaborators with the highest chunk of eight per cent with the US. Sullivan delivered an insightful talk on 'The United States and India: Building a Shared Future'. He addressed a distinguished gathering at IIT Delhi, setting the tone in the right direction for joint technology development in the academic forefront for the two nations. The audience included guests from the US Embassy, representatives from the industry, faculty, and students of IIT Delhi. He focused on the progress of the India-US strategic partnership and explored future strategic alliances aimed at further strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations. IIT Delhi continues to champion cutting-edge innovations and groundbreaking technology. The institute's ongoing partnerships with US academia and industry are poised to expand, with discussions underway for further collaborative efforts. These initiatives aim to foster greater investment in India's thriving startup ecosystem and advance joint research projects, strengthening the India-US relationship even further. Narayanan D. Kurur, Dean of Academics, IIT Delhi, highlighted US Ambassador Eric Garcetti's first and Sullivan's last visit to India as the US NSA. --IANS gcb/khz New Delhi, Jan 26 : Union Minister of Steel and Heavy Industries H. D. Kumaraswamy launched the second round of the PLI scheme on Monday to boost the production of high-value specialty steel in the country, which is used for making products such as refrigerators, power equipment, and automobiles. Kumaraswamy said that the Ministry of Steel has come out with PLI scheme 1.1 for specialty steel for five product categories which is the same as the existing PLI Scheme to enable further participation as industry participants requested the ministry for relaxation. The minister said that the PLI Scheme 1.1 will remain open from January 6 to January 31, 2025, and expressed hope that the industry will participate actively to invest and strengthen Brand India, reduce imports, and position India as a global steel powerhouse. The changes made in the PLI scheme for specialty steel reflect the governmentas commitment to strengthening domestic production, fostering innovation, and reducing imports, the minister said. Sandeep Poundrik, Secretary, Ministry of Steel, said that the PLI scheme 1.1 will be implemented during the production period of FY 2025-26 to FY 2029-30. He mentioned that there were no participants in 8 sub-categories in the previous round and hoped there would be wider participation this time around. Certain changes have been incorporated with industry consultation to make the scheme more investor friendly, which includes a reduction in threshold investment & capacity for the CRGO product sub-categories, allowing carry forward of excess production to the immediately following year for the purpose of claiming incentives, and reduction in threshold investment under capacity augmentation mode. PLI Scheme 1.1 covers five product categories in line with the existing PLI Scheme, namely coated/plated steel products, high strength/wear resistant steel, specialty rails, alloy steel products & steel wires and electrical steel. These products have a wide range of applications, from white goods to transformers to automobiles and other niche sectors. The scheme will operate within the funds originally allocated for the scheme, i.e., Rs.6,322 crore. Changes to PLI rules have been made based on industry feedback. Not all companies would need to install new mills. Recognising the importance of producing quality steel, energy efficiency and other process improvements, companies investing in augmentation of existing capacities will be allowed to participate in the scheme. Investment in such cases will be 50 per cent of the threshold mentioned in the guidelines which have been uploaded on the web portal of the Ministry. The policy will cover cold-rolled grain-oriented steel (CRGO), a high-value steel used in the production of power transformers used in HT power distribution. The technology to make CRGO is not available with any of the Indian steelmakers. Considering the strategic importance of becoming Aatmanirbhar in CRGO, the Ministry of Steel has been having regular meetings with stakeholders aimed at increasing the production of CRGO within the country. By reducing the investment and capacity creation thresholds to Rs.3,000 crore and 50,000 tonnes respectively, the Ministry of Steel hopes that the industry would be enthused to participate in the category. The first round of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Specialty Steel was notified on July 29, 2021, by the Ministry of Steel with a budgetary outlay of Rs 6,322 crore. Bengaluru, Jan 6 : In the wake of the detection of two cases of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) virus in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday said that the government will take appropriate precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the infection. Speaking to the media at Vidhana Soudha, the Chief Minister said: "The HMPV virus has been reported in China, and information has emerged that the virus has been detected in Karnataka as well. Therefore, instructions have been issued to the Health Department to take precautionary measures to prevent the spread of this virus." The Health Minister has already held a meeting, and the Health and Medical Education Departments will take the necessary steps to control the spread of the virus, he stated. Asked about the possibility of resuming screening at airports as a preventive measure, Siddaramaiah responded: "The Health Minister is holding discussions regarding this, and decisions will be made about the precautionary measures to be implemented in the state." Meanwhile, Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao speaking to media after the emergency meeting regarding the HMPV virus, said: "The public is panicked over the issue. The China outbreak information is everywhere. The HMPV virus is found in two persons in the state, this also created fear among people." "I am telling you clearly, the HMPV virus is naturally present in the country. Influenza-like illnesses (ILI) like cough, cold and respiratory infections. HMPV is one among them. This is not a new virus in the country," he clarified. The minister noted that it can't be branded as dangerous and fatal as it has been present for many years in the country and the world. "It came to be detected for the first time in the Netherlands. The Central government and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), those who carry out surveillance... when such ILI cases come up, one per cent of the population will get HMPV. The data is available in this regard," he said. "The fatalities are minimal. When the HMPV virus gets into the body, it will be there for some time and after treatment, it will vanish. In two cases, one kid is already discharged and another kid is also doing fine and will be discharged in a day or two," Rao maintained. "Thinking that something big is happening and all will have to wear masks or no one should come out is wrong. There is no proposal to impose a lockdown. I request media not to create panic," he appealed. "If there are more symptoms, take care and avoid crowded places. But the public can remain calm. There is no harm to life with the HMPV infection. There is no information about the new China strain. The Central government is monitoring the developments, " Rao said, adding that this was what was discussed in the emergency meeting. "If it is a mutated virus, the cases should go up in the country. The trend is not seen anywhere in India. There is no outbreak or a large number of cases reported. The infection is found more among children and aged," he stated. "The tests are conducted normally. We will move forward only when the Central government gives guidance in this regard for testing," he said. "Be normal and take precautions. Any further development... we are connected to the government of India and ICMR. We will let the public know if there is any development," Rao said. There are many positive cases of HMPV in Puducherry and Gujarat. There is no necessity for studying. If there is a situation in future, we will deal with it, he said. "Last year, more than 2 lakh cases of ILI were reported in our state but there was no case of morality. HMPV case is not notifiable, it comes under the umbrella of ILI," he stressed. "In case of any emergency or spike in cases, we have all infrastructure. It is like Covid-19 and our system is in place. But there is no situation existing in the state as such," Rao reiterated. Amaravati, Jan 6 : The Andhra Pradesh government on Monday sounded an alert in view of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases being reported in certain parts of the country. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Monday conducted a teleconference with the officials concerned on the preventive measures being taken in the state and gave clear directions to the officials of the Medical and Health Department to be vigilant and take all the necessary preventive measures. When the officials informed the Chief Minister that no HMPV cases were reported from any part of the state, he asked the officials to keep a vigil on those who are entering the state from other parts of the country and conduct necessary tests wherever needed. Minister for Medical and Health Satya Kumar and the senior officers from the department participated in the teleconference. Meanwhile, Telanganaas Health Department officials said they were closely monitoring the situation in coordination with the Union Ministry of Health. It said there was no need for alarm regarding HMPV. Director of Public Health B. Ravinder Nayak has said that no cases of HMPV have been reported in the state so far. The Health Department also did not find any significant increase in the cases of respiratory cases in December 2024 compared to the same month in 2023. The department has urged people to follow recommended dos and donats. The Health Department has already made it clear that HMPV is like any other respiratory virus which causes a common cold and flu-like symptoms during the winter season, especially among younger & older age groups. As a part of precautionary measure, it urged citizens to follow certain doas and donats as a safeguard against respiratory infections. People have been advised to cover their mouth and nose with a handkerchief or tissue paper while coughing or sneezing. "Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitiser. Avoid crowded places; stay at more than an armas length from persons affected with flu," reads the advisory. People have been advised to stay away from public places if they have fever, cough and sneezing. They were asked to drink plenty of water and eat nutritious food. Adequate ventilation with outdoor air is recommended in all settings to reduce the transmission. Stay at home and limit contact with others if you are sick, people were advised. The Health Department also advised people not to shake hands, and reuse tissue paper and handkerchiefs. --IANS ms/vd Gangtok, Jan 6 : The Uttar Pradesh government on Monday extended a formal invitation to Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur to attend the upcoming Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj, officials said. Gangtok, Jan 6 (IANS) The Uttar Pradesh government on Monday extended a formal invitation to Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur to attend the upcoming Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj, officials said. Two Uttar Pradesh Ministers -- Om Prakash Rajbhar and JPS Rathore visited Gangtok on Monday and called on the Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur at the Raj Bhavan. The Sikkim Governor extended a warm welcome to the visiting Ministers, presenting them with traditional Khadas. According to an official statement, during the meeting, the two Ministers extended a formal invitation on behalf of the Uttar Pradesh government and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, to the Sikkim Governor for the upcoming Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj, one of the largest and most revered religious gatherings in the world. The Kumbh Mela draws millions of devotees who come together to bathe in the sacred rivers, seeking spiritual purification and blessings. Governor Mathur graciously accepted the invitation to attend the Kumbh Mela. The meeting also focused on various developmental issues about both Uttar Pradesh and Sikkim, with an emphasis on fostering cooperation and mutual growth between the two states. Recently, Sikkim Raj Bhavan celebrated the 73rd birthday of Governor Om Prakash Mathur, with great fervour and enthusiasm here. The celebration was attended by Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, Sikkim Assembly Speaker Mingma Norbu Sherpa, Rajasthan Forest and Environment Minister Sanjay Sharma and various Ministers of the mountain state. The celebration commenced with a warm welcome address by Rajasthan's Former Minister, Narayan Joshi, who extended heartfelt greetings to Governor Mathur and other dignitaries. Extending his birthday wishes to Governor Mathur, CM Tamang expressed profound respect and gratitude for the Governor's unwavering commitment, visionary leadership, and decades-long service to the nation. He highlighted the Governor's exemplary public life, characterised by honesty, integrity, and profound knowledge. CM Tamang reflected on Governor Om Prakash Mathur's illustrious political journey, in various capacities and Member of Parliament in Rajya Sabha. He praised Governor Mathur's leadership in fostering progress in Sikkim, particularly in environmental conservation, education, and rural development. Guwahati, Jan 6 : Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Monday that a least nine labourers have been identified, who were trapped in a coal mine in the Umrangshu locality in the Dima Hasao district of Assam, earlier in the day. The state administration and the police have launched an operation to rescue the trapped labourers from the mine. According to police, the exact number of labourers who got trapped inside the coal mine is still unknown. Out of the nine labourers who were trapped still in the coal mine, one is a Nepali national, one from West Bengal and the rest hail from different parts of Assam. They have been identified as Ganga Bahadur Shreth, Hussain Ali, Jakir Hussain, Sarpa Barman, Mustafa Seikh, Khusi Mohan Rai, Sanjit Sarkar, Lijan Magar and Sarat Goyary. The state administration has sought assistance from the Army in the rescue operation. Taking to social media platform X, CM Sarma said, "We have requested the Army's assistance in the ongoing rescue operation. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are also on their way to the incident site to aid in the efforts." The Chief Minister has sent the District Commissioner (DC) and the Superintendent of Police of the Dima Hasao district to the site. The Food and Civil Supply Minister Kaushik Rai is also rushing to the site. "Distressing news from Umrangshu, where labourers are trapped in a coal mine. The exact number and status are yet unknown. The DC, SP, and my colleague, Kaushik Rai, are rushing to the site. Praying to God for everyone's safety," CM Sarma said in an X post. The Chief Minister has been in Mumbai for the last three days and he met a series of top industrialists in the country. He is expected to return to the state on Tuesday. CM Sarma also attended a roadshow in Mumbai on Monday to attract industrialists to invest in the northeastern state. He said that his government aims to make Assam a favourable destination for investments in the next few years. --IANS tdr/khz Patna, Jan 6 : Prashant Kishor, the chief of the Jan Suraj Party, pledged to continue his hunger strike in support of Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) candidates after being released from the Beur Central Jail on Monday night. He declared that the movement, initiated in Patna's historic Gandhi Maidan, would also reach its resolution there, with further plans to be disclosed the following day (Tuesday). Kishor celebrated his unconditional bail as a significant setback for Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's administration, accusing it of being controlled by retired officers operating out of the Chief Minister's Office (CMO). "Nitish Kumar is a tired leader nearing the end of his political tenure. He would no longer serve as Chief Minister after 10-11 months. The bureaucrats supporting Kumar's administration should be ready to prepare for the consequences after the government change in Bihar," Kishor said. The Jan Suraj Party founder, after being released from Beur Central Jail, criticised certain officials of the Patna Police and the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) for their actions during his arrest and detention. He specifically called out an officer for allegedly displaying unnecessary "heroism" and accused him of lacking a proper understanding of the law. Kishor narrated his ordeal, claiming, "Despite the legal provision for bail at the police station level, the officers took him on a prolonged journey in an ambulance for six to seven hours. They brought me to AIIMS Patna, where doctors refused to admit me, and then to a health centre in Fatuha, where no medical certificate was issued. Eventually, I was produced before the Patna Civil Court in the Pirbahore locality, which granted him conditional bail. However, I refused to accept the conditional bail and chose to go to jail," Kishor said. He further accused the police of mishandling the situation, stating that they transported him to Beur Central Jail without a court order. Till that time, the court had granted him unconditional bail. He claimed that the officers were uninformed about the legal procedures and were driven by a desire to assert their authority. "Following the unconditional bail from the court, it is heavy pounding for those who were displaying heroism and those who were instructing from CMO," Kishor said. He reiterated that the ongoing hunger strike and movement at Gandhi Maidan are not about him but are aimed at seeking justice for the youth of Bihar, particularly those affected by issues in the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC). He emphasised his willingness to step aside if leaders like Congress MP Rahul Gandhi or former Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav chose to take the reins of the movement. In a scathing remark, Kishor criticised Tejashwi Yadav for being disengaged from the struggle. While protesters endured severe cold in Gandhi Maidan, the Jan Suraj Party leader alleged that Yadav was enjoying a bonfire at his residence and sharing videos on social media. This, he argued, underscored the lack of genuine commitment from some political leaders towards addressing the grievances of Bihar's youth. Earlier on Monday, Kishor was arrested by the police from the Gandhi statue in Patna, where he was on a hunger strike. BEIJING, Jan. 4 (Xinhua) -- A senior official of the Communist Party of China (CPC) has called for thoroughly studying and implementing Xi Jinping Thought on Culture. Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and a member of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee, made the remarks at a meeting attended by publicity officials across the country, which was held in Beijing from Friday to Saturday. Cai stressed efforts to provide solid ideological guarantee, powerful inspiration and favorable cultural environment for building a modern socialist country in all respects and advancing the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation on all fronts. The CPC Central Committee with Xi Jinping at its core has placed cultural development at the forefront of governance since the 18th National Congress of the CPC in 2012, yielding significant achievements, he said. The most significant achievement, according to Cai, is the establishment of Xi Jinping Thought on Culture, which serves as the cultural banner of the Party in the new era. Cai stressed the need to advance the solid implementation of the Party's innovative theories, foster a mainstream public opinion that rallies people to work together in unity, enhance the supply of cultural services and products, energize artistic creation and production, and promote the systemic preservation of cultural heritage, among others. He also emphasized promoting the high-quality development of tourism and expanding cultural exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations. Cai underlined strengthening the Party's overall leadership to continuously open new horizons in the work related to public communication and culture. Li Shulei, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, outlined key tasks, emphasizing the need to ensure their effective implementation with a strong sense of political responsibility. Fighters in the refugee camp in the Palestinian city of Jenin, located in the northern West Bank, ask about the color of the car trying to enter their territory, so they dont mistakenly shoot it as it approaches. Tensions have always run high in Jenin. This is where battle broke out in 2002, resulting in the deaths of 52 Palestinians and 23 Israeli soldiers. Since October 7, 2023, when Hamas killed 1,200 Israelis in the Gaza border area, the Israeli army has conducted multiple raids in the camp, some leading to dozens of deaths and arrests. However, now, the fighting is taking place between the Palestinians themselves. The Jenin camp, home to around 23,000 people, was established like many others in the West Bank and Gaza in 1948, following the Nakba (catastrophe) the mass exile of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians after the founding of the State of Israel, an event that has displaced nearly six million people over the decades. Today, the camp is riddled with 150 anti-personnel mines, according to the Palestinian government. As a car approaches the fighting zone, the so-called iron hedgehogs emerge an anti-tank defense obstacle made of angular bars. Its Saturday afternoon, and gunfire can be heard in the distance. On one street, about 15 militiamen are stationed, all armed with M-16 rifles. They joke among themselves, seemingly unbothered by the nearby shots. Quais, 33 (he does not provide his surname), is the leader. He insists that no photos be taken of anyone in the group, not even from behind. He and the dozen fighters around him are bearded and armed, with some beardless teenagers carrying rifles as well. A Palestinian woman and man, both wearing bulletproof press vests, are permitted to film. The militiamen set their weapons on the ground and begin to pray. Meanwhile, the others film the scene in a way that ensures the rifles are clearly visible. After five minutes, each militiaman picks up his weapon and resumes position. Since December 15, the Palestinian Authority (PA), which governs parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank, has been attempting to disarm what it refers to as outlaws, and criminals. The operation has so far resulted in the deaths of six PA soldiers, four militants, and three civilians. One of the victims is 21-year-old journalism student Shatha al-Sabbagh, an active social media user and supporter of the militants. Al-Sabbagh was shot in the head on December 28 while with her mother in the Jenin camp. No one has claimed responsibility for her death. Another victim was a young man riding his motorcycle unarmed; a video of his death has circulated on social media. In this case, the PA has acknowledged the mistake and taken responsibility. Quais claims to be a member of Hamas. But this one is from Islamic Jihad, and that one over there belongs to another group What really bothers the Palestinian government is that we are all united now. Quais explains that the clashes are due to the fact that the PA, in collaboration with Israel, wants to end the fighting situation in the occupied West Bank. The Israelis have told the Palestinian government that if it wants to take control of Gaza one day, it must first end the resistance in the West Bank. They have cut off our water, our electricity, they dont let food suppliers through here, and they threaten them with reprisals. More than an hour and a half south, in Ramallah, the administrative capital of the West Bank, Brigadier General Anwar Rajab, spokesperson for the Palestinian General Intelligence security forces, offers his perspective. Israels strategy, especially since October 7, is to weaken the PA. The extremist ministers [in Israel] want to change the demographics of the West Bank. To do this, they are trying to show that we cannot control these criminal groups, which are financed by Iran. We even know how much many of them are paid. They also have the support of Hamas social networks, Islamic Jihad, and, above all, Al Jazeera. A Palestinian security officer fires tear gas at protesters in the center of the West Bank city of Jenin on December 16. Nasser Ishtayeh (SOPA Images/LightRocket/Getty) Last week, the Palestinian government banned Al Jazeera from broadcasting in the West Bank following its coverage of clashes in the Jenin camp, accusing the network of stirring up sedition. However, Quais and his group say they are delighted with the coverage. Al Jazeeras Ramallah office was raided and closed by Israeli troops in May. Military spokesman Rajab believes that the outlawed groups are attempting to change the mindset of children regarding the true Palestinian cause. He claims that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is using Iran to weaken the PA. Iran wants to impose its Shiite ideology here, through its branches, Hamas and Islamic Jihad [despite the fact that these organizations are Sunni]. These criminal groups have no ability to harm Israel; they are simply given a reason to enter our territories. These outlaws kill Palestinian soldiers, steal PA cars, put Iranian and Islamic Jihad flags on them, and post it on the internet. Rajab shows on his phone a map illustrating the distribution of anti-personnel mines planted by fighters in the camp. They say they do this to protect themselves from Israel. But what is the point of placing them within reach of any child? And why are they storing explosives in health centers? They are criminals. They have used a floor of Jenin hospital to set up shop. They have raped nurses. And we have all the information about the money they are receiving from Gaza, Iran, and Turkey. The spokesperson for the Palestinian security forces refuses to give an exact number of the outlaws arrested but insists there are many. We also have others who have been wounded, and we are treating them in prison. However, others shoot at the ambulances we send to treat them. Rajab says his greatest fear is that the Israeli army will interfere before the PA has completed its disarmament efforts. Iran helps us Back in the Jenin camp, along a road lined with at least a dozen Israeli settler settlements, Quais admits: We have financial help and support from Iran. They are our friends. But I am not Shiite, nor do I work with them or with their agenda. He also acknowledges that they have planted mines. But we warned the PA beforehand that we would do it. He denies, however, that they have taken over a floor of the hospital. Thats what they do they look for any pretext to get in and shoot from there, he says. The militant has never had faith in the Palestinian authorities. Regarding Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat, who died in 2004, he says that Arafat made a grave mistake by signing the Oslo Accords, which led to the creation of the Palestinian security forces, their coordination with the Israeli forces, and the division of the West Bank into three zones: one, the cities, under the administrative and security control of the PA; another, mixed, in the surrounding areas; and the largest portion (more than 60% of the territory), under full Israeli control. These agreements killed us, says Quais. As for the current Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas, 89, he states: He has already expired, that he has no role to play. On a nearby street, Murad Sadi, a 48-year-old resident, says the camp is surrounded by PA forces. There is no school for the children, no prayers in the mosque. Food isnt coming We just want the government soldiers to leave us alone. Um Mutasim al-Sabbagh, mother of a journalist shot dead in the Jenin refugee camp (West Bank), on January 4 at the home of a relative, in Jenin. Francisco Peregil Five minutes away from the camp, Um Mutasim al-Sabbagh [she uses the Arabic name that means she is Mutasims mother], 52, the mother of the journalism student killed on December 28, is at a relatives house. She says that what hurts her most is that she was with her daughter and couldnt do anything for her. We went shopping at a shop opposite our house. It was 11 p.m. My daughter was carrying a one-year-old baby in her arms, from a relative, and a two-year-old boy by her hand, recalls al-Sabbagh. The bullet entered below her ear and went through her head. When I saw her, she was on the ground, with the baby still on top of her. I screamed, and they kept shooting at me, so I had to go into my house with the baby. I cannot accuse anyone, but from the angle from which they shot her, there were only PA forces. A couple of days earlier, my daughter had posted a photo of two martyrs on her social media. The PA asked her to remove them. Not only did she not remove them, but she also wrote that they had asked her to delete them. The mother says that on that same street, in front of her house, her 21-year-old son Mutasim died under fire from the Israeli army on March 7, 2023. She has another younger son, Mosad, who works as a paramedic with an ambulance service. On December 28, Mosad went to help a victim. We knew someone had been shot. We were five minutes away, but the PA wouldnt let us in because they said it was dangerous, says Mosad. After half an hour, they let us in. Then I saw that the victim was my sister. I took her pulse, and it was already very weak. I cant express how hard it was to see her die. Palestinian journalists in front of the body of Shatha al-Sabbagh, a 21-year-old journalism student, at Jenin's public hospital. Nasser Ishtayeh (SOPA Images/LightRocket/Getty) Military spokesman Rajab claims the bullet that killed al-Sabbagh came from an Israeli-made M-16 rifle, the type used by the outlaws. Quais, however, insists that everyone in Jenin knows she was killed by the PA. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Hyderabad, Jan 6 : The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Monday issued another notice to Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president K. T. Rama Rao asking him to appear before it on January 9 in the Formula-E race case. ACB officials served the notice to Rama Rao at his residence in Gachibowli. This came hours after the former minister visited ACB headquarters but returned without appearing before investigating officials when his lawyer was not allowed to accompany him. KTR, as Rama Rao is popularly known, insisted that ACB officials should allow his lawyer during the questioning. The BRS leader left the ACB office after handing over a letter, addressed to the ACB official who had issued the notice. KTR requested the ACB to defer his questioning till the Telangana High Court pronounced its order on his quash petition. In his letter addressed to Majid Khan, DSP of the ACB's Central Investigation Unit, KTR mentioned that the Telangana High Court has reserved its order on his quash petition and the same be pronounced any time. KTR was issued notice to appear on January 6 to furnish the information and documents pertaining to the case. "However, in your notice, you have not given details of the information and documents sought from me pertaining to the case. You are requested to give details of the documents sought from me pertaining to the case to take further necessary action at my end after giving reasonable time for the same," wrote KTR, who assured that he would cooperate in the matter subject to constitutional and legal rights. The ACB last month filed a case against KTR, former Special Chief Secretary to Government, Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MA&UD) department Arvind Kumar and former Chief Engineer of Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) B.L.N. Reddy for alleged Rs 54.88 crore irregularities in Formula-E deal. The FIR was registered on a complaint by Principal Secretary to Government, MA&UD department M. Dana Kishore, who stated that foreign remittances were made without prior approvals of the relevant regulatory authorities, which resulted in an additional tax burden to HMDA to the tune of Rs 8.06 crore. The FIR was registered under the Prevention of Corruption Act as well as under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 409 (criminal breach of trust) and 120B (criminal conspiracy). Mumbai, Jan 7 : Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis appealed to the people of Maharashtra on Monday not to panic and not to believe in fake information about human metapneumovirus (HMPV). "Our meeting with the Health Ministry is ongoing, and the regulations will be announced soon, and there is no reason for anyone to panic," he said. His appeal came in the wake of the detection of two HMPV cases by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in Karnataka. According to the Health Ministry, both cases were identified through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens. The surveillance is part of ICMR's ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses across the country. "There is no reason to fear the HMPV virus. According to preliminary information, this virus is not new, this virus was prevalent earlier also. It seems that this virus is making a comeback once again. The regulations in this regard will be announced. The Union Health Ministry has decided to inform the states. Do not give fictitious information in this regard. Only the official information that comes should be given," said Fadnavis. Earlier, the state health department on Monday clarified that there is not a single case of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) detected in Maharashtra. However, the health department has issued an advisory asking the district administration to keep a close vigil while stepping up surveillance of patients with colds and cough. The Health Department Director Dr Nitin Ambadekar said, "Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) causes respiratory infections. This virus was first detected in the Netherlands in 2001. It is a common respiratory virus that causes infections in the upper respiratory tract. It is a seasonal epidemic and occurs in winter and early summer, like the flu. So far, no case of HMPV has been found in the state." With the increased risk of HMPV, the Health Department has analysed the state's respiratory infection statistics. There was no increase in respiratory infections in the state in December 2024 compared to 2023. As a precautionary measure, the Health Department has said that citizens should take precautions to protect themselves from respiratory infections, he said. The department has also released dos and don'ts to be followed by the citizens. Ottawa, Jan 7 : Justin Trudeau is ending his 11-year leadership role, nine years as Canada's Prime Minister, that was marred by his confrontation with India and deference to Khalistanis. He announced on Monday that he will step down as Prime Minister and the leader of the Liberal Party, but will continue in office till a new leader is elected. Speaking outside his official residence here he said, "I intend to resign as party leader, as Prime Minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide, competitive process". He said that the House of Commons will be prorogued till March 24, which means it will be dormant and the opposition cannot force a vote of no-confidence against him. Egged on by his one-time ally Jagmeet Singh, leader of the opposition, New Democratic Party, he accused India of orchestrating a deadly campaign against Khalistanis. Some in his government made personal allegations against some Indian leaders without presenting proof, linking India to the killing of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. But that was not enough to mollify Singh, on whose support his minority government relied on to stay in power. Singh joined the chorus for Trudeau's resignation, as his poll ratings cratered and his party and the government plunged into chaos with the ouster of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland. That, in turn, led to Liberal Party MPs calling for Trudeau's resignation. The Trudeau government's campaign against India did nothing to salvage his reputation. A visit to India by Trudeau to India exposed his government's entanglement with Khalistanis. Trudeau's penchant for showmanship backfired during the trip when he and his family dressed in Bollywood glam, and it was overshadowed by an invitation sent for a reception he was hosting to Jaspal Atwal, a Khalistani convicted of involvement in an assassination plot against the then-Punjab Minister Malkiat Singh Sidhu. The Liberal Party has only 153 seats in the 338-member, far short of the 170 needed for a majority. Trudeau's government was on life support after the New Democratic Party broke an agreement in September to support him without joining the government. Any leader succeeding him will have to get the support of the minority parties. If this is not possible, an early election before the October deadline could become inevitable giving an edge to the opposition Conservative Party. Conservative Party leader Pierre Marcel Poilievre is waiting in the wings and if he becomes Prime Minister a reset of Canada's policies can be expected. Polilievre has blamed Trudeau for ruining relations with India by being "unprofessional". He said in an interview with Toronto's Namaste Radio last year, that Trudeau "is so incompetent and unprofessional that now we are in major disputes with almost every major power in the world and that includes India". Trudeau has become "a laughingstock in India -- the world's biggest democracy". Polilievre said. Trudeau said he asked Liberal Party President Sachit Mehra to immediately begin the process for electing a new leader. Trudeau, however, declared that his quest for power was not over, even though he had become unpopular and his party was facing defeat in an election. "I'm a fighter. Every bone in my body has always told me to fight because I care deeply about Canadians. I care deeply about this country, and I will always be motivated by what is in the best interest of Canadians," he said. The son of former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, Justin became PM in 2015, after two years as party leader. His prime ministership was rocked after he pushed out Freeland, who held the finance portfolio, last month. In her resignation letter, Freeland, who was popular, said, "I have found ourselves at odds about the best path forward for Canada". US President-elect Donald Trump, who threatened tariffs against Canada, added to Trudeau's woes. Trump accused Trudeau's government of allowing illegal migrants to cross over the US, endangering it. According to a Canadian Customs and Border Protection Service report, 358 people on terror watch lists were caught trying to enter the US from Canada in the fiscal year 2024, an indication of Trudeau's lax policies towards terrorism. After Trudeau visited him in Mar-a-Lago, Trump ridiculed him as the "Governor of the 51st State" because of his pleas for concessions. Trudeau came to power with flamboyance and moralising, capitalising on his heredity. But the charm wore off as Canadians were hammered by high prices and general angst over crime and quality of life. Last month, the poll tracker from the Angus Reid Institute showed his approval rating at an abysmal 22 per cent last month. Gurugram, Jan 7 : Haryana's Environment, Forest and Wildlife Minister, Rao Narbir Singh, has said that the upcoming world's largest jungle safari and green corridor, set to be developed in the Aravalli mountain range in Gurugram and Nuh districts, will change the fate and landscape of the region's rural areas. He said that once the project is completed, it will not only aid in environmental conservation but also generate new employment opportunities for local residents in tourism. The Minister assured that his effort will be to ensure that every individual in the project area benefits from it. Singh said this while addressing citizens during his visit to the villages of Aklimpur, Tikli, Gairatpur Bas, and Sakatpur in the Badshahpur Assembly constituency on Monday. Jungle Safari is to be built on about 10,000 acres in Gurugram and Nuh district in the Aravalli mountain range in Haryana, he added. The Minister remarked that the Haryana government is committed towards the inclusive development of all regions in the state under PM Modi's slogan of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas'. He added that while maintaining the pace of development in Gurugram district, new milestones are being set to provide the region with a new identity in the global development and industrial sectors. "The state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, is implementing people-friendly policies with transparency, integrity, and a focus on welfare schemes for all sections of society," he said. Singh also added that the trust the people of Haryana have shown by giving the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) a third term in power will be honoured. "The state government will work to uplift every section of society and implement welfare policies for the benefit of the most marginalised. There would be no shortage of funds for the development of basic infrastructure for the public," the Minister said. The Minister highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Saini, the Haryana government has been empowering its citizens through continuous welfare schemes. The BJP government's tenure has seen the upliftment of the poor, women, and farmers, and provided job opportunities for youth without any bureaucratic hurdles, Singh said. He said that the "double-engine" government is working towards making Haryana a developed state, which will brighten the future of today's youth. During his tour, the Minister also listened to the concerns of the public and directed the concerned officials to address and resolve these issues promptly. Bengaluru, Jan 7 : Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy has accused the Congress-led Karnataka government of extorting 60 per cent commission from contractors. He has further hit back at Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who asked for proof to substantiate the allegations. The Union Minister questioned, "Honorable Chief Minister, where did the allegation of a 60 per cent commission without evidence come from?" He added, "This accusation was made by contractors aligned with your party and Congress leaders from Tumakuru. They had claimed that even the previous BJP government was better than your partyas administration. These contractors directly alleged that the Congress government is also extorting a 40 per cent commission. If there is no commission involved, why did they make such claims? Shouldnat you have called and questioned them? Why didnat you?" Taking a sharp dig, Kumaraswamy said, "You now demand evidence for every allegation, but during the BJP government, your party levelled allegations of a 40 per cent commission and even ran newspaper advertisements. What proof did you provide at that time? Have you ever presented evidence for any of your political allegations in your career?" Referring to a contractor from Davangere who reportedly wrote to the Chief Minister and the Governor seeking euthanasia due to pending payments, the Union Minister stated, "Will you ensure his payments are made, or will you grant him a mercy killing? Leave aside your greed for commissions and first save that contractor." Referring to CM Siddaramaiah, he taunted, "60 per cent commission! Chief Minister Hit-and-Run!" Responding to Kumaraswamy's statement that the commission rate in the state government has reached 60 per cent, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah clarified that during the tenure of the previous Basavaraj Bommai-led government, the president of the Contractorsa Association, late Kempanna, had made allegations about commissions. Kempanna had accused the BJP of taking commissions. What proof does Kumaraswamy have in support of his charges, he had questioned. Meanwhile, former Chief Minister and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai joining the issue slammed the incumbent Congress government and said Siddaramaiah, who is asking for proof regarding the 60 per cent commission allegations, should first answer what evidence they provided when they accused the previous BJP government of being a '40 per cent government.' To date, they have not given any proof, he chided. Speaking to the media in Hubballi on Monday, he said that the state governmentas functioning is evident, with corruption rampant in every department. "There is no developmental work happening; corruption is rampant in every department. Be it common people, contractors, or people from all walks of life --everyone is facing the heat of corruption. The Chief Minister's behaviour indicates an attempt to cover up corruption, Bommai charged. Responding to Congress' claims that they have implemented guarantees while the BJP did nothing, the former CM highlighted initiatives during BJP rule. During former CM B.S. Yediyurappa's tenure, we introduced free electricity for farmers' pump sets, the Bhagyalakshmi scheme for the girl child, and the Vidyanidhi scheme for farmers' children. Did Congress give any of this? The BJP government provided many benefits to ASHA and Anganwadi workers. What have they done? Not even proper roads, Bommai said. Asked about Congress' protests against Union Home Minister Amit Shahas statements on Dr B.R. Ambedkar, the MP said the behaviour of Congress during Ambedkar's time is well known to todayas youth. During the two-day discussion in Parliament, it became clear that Congress is anti-Constitution and anti-Ambedkar. To cover up their misdeeds, they are twisting Union Home Minister Amit Shahas statement. If they truly respect Ambedkar, let them apologise for the insults their senior leaders inflicted on him. The former CM also demanded a thorough investigation into allegations against Minister Priyank Kharge. Bhopal, Jan 7 : A week after a Dalit man died inside a police station in Madhya Pradesh's Dewas, the woman, who lodged a complaint against him, was also found dead on Monday. The deceased has been identified as Rukhsana Khan (40), a resident of Kannod town in Dewas district. Her body was found hanging from a ceiling fan at her home, police said on Monday. Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDOP) of Kannod town, Ketan Adlak told media persons that the body was recovered from her home. "Prima facie it appears a suicide case, however, the exact cause of death will be known after the postmortem is done," he added. Notably, on December 26, Rukhsana had lodged a complaint against a Dalit man Mukesh Langore at Satwas police station in Dewas, accusing him of hurling abusive language and giving life threats in a drunken position. On the basis of Rukhsana Khan's complaint, Satwas police had called Mukesh Langore (35) to record his statements on December 28 when he allegedly hanged himself to death, as Dewas police had earlier stated. Dewas Superintendent of Police Puneet Gahlot had said that Longre was not in police custody at the time of the incident but was recording his statement in the inquiry room before the station in-charge Ashish Rajput. The incident sparked a controversy, following which, Satwas police station in-charge Ashish Singh was suspended and a judicial inquiry was also ordered on December 29. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had expressed their annoyance through social media posts and had accused the BJP government of anti-Dalit. The Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi had even alleged that such incidents can't happen without the support of the government. An inquiry into the Dalit man's death inside the police station, being conducted by a judicial magistrate first class (JMFC) is underway, according to the police. Shimla, Jan 7 : Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry (UHF) in Himachal Pradesh's Nauni has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Hindustan Insecticides Ltd. (HIL) to promote natural farming across India, it said on Monday. The pact facilitates the joint implementation of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) Regional Child Project, which focuses on reducing and managing agrochemical use through the Fostering Agrochemical Reduction and Management (FARM) initiative in India. HIL, a public sector undertaking under the Union Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers, manufactures agrochemicals, seeds, and water-soluble fertilisers. This collaboration marks a pioneering effort by a company traditionally involved in the production of agrochemicals and fertilisers to actively promote natural farming practices in the country. The pact was signed by R.S. Chandel, Vice-Chancellor of UHF, and Kuldeep Singh, Chairman and Managing Director of HIL. The primary goal of the FARM project is to offer safer alternatives to chemical pesticides and promote integrated pest management (IPM) practices, including natural farming, among India's farming communities. The initiative aims to transition 1.5 million hectares of farmland from conventional chemical farming to organic and natural farming methods and protect 1.5 million people from exposure to harmful pesticides. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, known for its expertise in agroecology and natural farming, is also a key member of the European Union-funded ACROPICS consortium. This consortium, which includes 15 members from 13 countries, aims to reduce chemical pesticide use through innovative agroecological crop protection methods. The Global FARM Project, launched by governments in Ecuador, India, Kenya, Laos, the Philippines, Uruguay, and Vietnam, aims to create a regulatory and financial framework to detoxify the agricultural sector. Led by the UN Environment Programme and supported by the Global Environment Facility, the project is implemented by the Asian Development Bank, UNDP, and UNIDO, with execution handled by FAO and relevant country institutions. --IANS vg/khz Bhopal, Jan 7 : During a court hearing in Madhya Pradesh on Monday, the court said it would hear concerns raised by the other parties as well and then provide further direction for the disposal of Union Carbide's hazardous waste. Bhopal, Jan 7 (IANS) During a court hearing in Madhya Pradesh on Monday, the court said it would hear concerns raised by the other parties as well and then provide further direction for the disposal of Union Carbide's hazardous waste. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said on Monday that his government has submitted the status report on the Union Carbide factory's hazardous waste shifted from Bhopal to Pithampur. He added that the court expressed its satisfaction on compliance of norms during the process of collection of hazardous waste-defunct Union Carbide factory in Bhopal and shifting it to Pithampur. "The Madhya Pradesh government has requested for six weeks, which the court has granted. During this period, the government will try to resolve the issues and make a consensus and then will seek further direction from the court for disposal of waste," the Chief Minister said in a statement. CM Yadav said the waste has been transported from Bhopal to Pithampur complying with the court's direction and further steps would be taken accordingly. "Our priority is to win the confidence of the people of the state. We assure that every step for disposal of hazardous waste will be done as per the court's direction," he added. Meanwhile, the Chief Minister also appealed to the people of the state not to believe in rumours and fake information regarding the disposal of hazardous waste. During the hearing, the bench of Chief Justice Suresh Kumar Kait and Justice Vivek Jain instructed the media not to give incorrect news on the issue of waste disposal. The court made this observation after the state government submitted that unrest had been caused in Pithampur township due to fictitious and fake news regarding the Union Carbide waste disposal. Notably, complying with the court's December 3 direction, the chemical waste lying at the defunct Union Carbide factory was collected in a three-day operation and loaded in 12 container trucks transported to Pithampur, around 40 km from Indore on January 2. The hazardous waste was lying at the Union Carbide factory premises after on the intervening night of December 2-3, 1984, methyl isocyanate (MIC) gas leaked from the Union Carbide pesticide factory in Bhopal, killing at least 5,479 people and leaving thousands with serious injuries and long-lasting health issues. --IANS pd/khz Bengaluru, Jan 7 : Clarifying the controversy surrounding the dinner meeting allegedly fuelling infighting within Karnataka Congress party, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Dy CM D.K. Shivakumar said that there is no infighting within the Congress party. Clarifying reports about a dinner party hosted by Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi in the absence of Dy CM Shivakumar, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said it was a New Year's gathering, and no political discussions took place. Discussions were focused on strengthening the party, and the media's speculative reports were baseless, he added. Dismissing rumours, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Monday said in New Delhi that dinner meets are commonplace in politics and there was no need to read too much into it. "It is common for politicians to attend dinner meets. I also organise dinner meetings frequently. The media should not politicise the dinner meeting. I had travelled abroad with the family as I had not travelled with them for the last 4-5 years," he said speaking to reporters. He was replying to questions on the potential political motive behind Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's dinner meet while the Dy CM was out of the country. "Many other ministers also were travelling abroad. Those who were in Bengaluru attended the dinner meeting, there is nothing wrong in it," he added. When pointed out to demands for Cabinet reshuffle and change in KPCC presidency by Minister H. K. Patil and others, he said, "There have been no discussions on this. The media is misinformed. This is a prerogative of the CM and he will talk about it." Sources revealed that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah held a dinner meeting on Thursday night at the residence of PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi to strategise on replacing Shivakumar as the party's state president and to push for the creation of additional Deputy Chief Minister posts in the state. This move is perceived as an attempt to undermine Shivakumar, who has been positioning himself as a major leader in the party on par with Siddaramaiah. Although leaders attending the dinner party claimed it was merely a New Year celebration, sources suggest internal conflicts within the Congress party. The Karnataka BJP has mocked Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress President D.K. Shivakumar over some big decisions being taken by the government in his absence. Referring to the dinner meeting attended by seven cabinet ministers and 34 MLAs, including Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the BJP questioned whether Dy CM Shivakumar was merely a leader in name. The Chief Minister's camp has long been advocating for the creation of more Deputy Chief Minister posts. While Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar worked together to secure a decisive victory for the Congress party in the 2023 Assembly elections, internal rivalries seem to be growing. Siddaramaiah was instrumental in garnering votes from Dalits, minorities, and backward communities, whereas Shivakumar played a key role in bringing influential Vokkaliga votes to the party in the southern parts of the state. Rahul Gandhi had earlier announced that the Chief Minister would be chosen based on the support of the majority of MLAs. Siddaramaiah secured the position for his second term, despite Shivakumar publicly expressing his desire to become the Chief Minister. The BJP has also alleged that the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam in which CM Siddaramaiah is facing investigation was highlighted by Shivakumar as a tactic to counter the Chief Minister. Mumbai, Jan 7 : Amid demand for NCP minister Dhananjay Munde's resignation following the murder of Massajog sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh from Beed district, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and party chief Ajit Pawar on Monday clarified that no action will be taken until the three ongoing investigations name anyone. Mumbai, Jan 7 (IANS) Amid demand for NCP minister Dhananjay Mundeas resignation following the murder of Massajog sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh from Beed district, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and party chief Ajit Pawar on Monday clarified that no action will be taken until the three ongoing investigations name anyone. Ajit Pawar on Monday revealed the party's official stand saying: "There are SIT, judicial and CID probes going on. Let these agencies complete their investigations. If the probe names anyone, only then there will be action." Ajit Pawar was speaking to reporters after his meeting with the NCP's National Working President Praful Patel and his party leader and the State Food and Civil Supply Minister Dhananjay Munde. Thereafter, Ajit Pawar also met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and discussed at length the political scenario amid the all-party demand for Munde's resignation. He has reportedly registered his displeasure over the BJP legislator Suresh Dhas' statements against Munde in connection with the killing of sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh. Earlier, Munde after his meeting with Ajit Pawar dropped hints that he would not step down. Munde also indicated that the NCP leadership has also not sought his resignation. He said that during his meeting with Ajit Pawar, he wished him a happy New Year and briefed him about the food and civil supply department which he holds. "The issue of Santosh Deshmukh's killing and the demand for resignation did not come up during my meeting with party president and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar," he added. He claimed that how can he stop those demanding his resignation? "I have been demanding that stern action should be taken against those involved in the killing of Santosh Deshmukh," Munde said. Veteran NCP leader and former Minister Chhagan Bhujbal, who was denied a ministerial berth in the recent cabinet expansion, came to Munde's defence, saying that there was no need for him to step down at this juncture. "Munde's resignation is being sought. I want to tell you that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has clearly said that the government will conduct a thorough investigation and take action against everyone found guilty. Why are they demanding Munde's resignation before that? Has anything come out of the investigation? If you have anything, give it to the police. Until nothing comes out of the investigation, it is wrong to demand his resignation. I don't think this is right," Bhujbal told reporters. Meanwhile, an all-party delegation on Monday urged the Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan that the NCP Minister Dhananjay Munde should immediately resign from the Cabinet, considering the involvement and possible interference in the brutal killing of the Massajog sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh from Beed district. The delegation also demanded that the feeling of "rule of law" must be strengthened for which a case of murder under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 103 must be immediately registered against Walmik Karad, the mastermind of the kidnapping, extortion and murder case, and the case should be conducted in a fast-track court. The delegation in its representation to the Governor also demanded that the accountability of law enforcement officials should be ensured and therefore action should be taken against police personnel who neglected their duties. The delegation also urged the Governor to take initiatives to restore public confidence and safety of residents in the Beed district and ultimately curb extortion and hooliganism. The future of Joaquin El Chapo Guzmans heirs is divided by a border spanning more than 1,860 miles. In the United States, Joaquin and Ovidio Guzman Lopez face a critical court hearing in Chicago on January 7, the deadline set by the judge for them to decide whether to plead guilty or proceed with separate legal defenses. Meanwhile, in Mexico, Ivan Archivaldo and Jesus Alfredo Guzman Salazar are locked in a relentless war against the forces of their former ally, Ismael El Mayo Zambada, vying for control of the Sinaloa Cartel. These four brothers two fugitives and two imprisoned bear the weight of determining the immediate fate of one of the worlds most powerful and feared criminal empires. The children from El Chapos second marriage are set to make their first joint appearance next Tuesday since Joaquin Guzman Jr., known as El Guero, surrendered to U.S. authorities in late July. His arrest was surrounded by controversy. The drug lord stepped off a small plane at a modest rural airport in New Mexico and was apprehended without a single shot being fired. Also aboard the plane was El Mayo, co-founder and top leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, who later accused El Guero, his godson, of abducting him and forcibly transporting him to the United States. Zambadas retaliation was inevitable but delayed; it came a month and a half later, despite calls for peace from the Mexican government, which accused Washington of provoking chaos to facilitate the capture. Amid allegations of betrayal and mounting diplomatic tensions, war erupted in Sinaloa on September 9. Since then, at least 635 people have been killed in the state alone, according to official figures. It was not a U.S. plane, it was not a U.S. pilot, it was not our agents or our people in Mexico, said Ken Salazar, the U.S. ambassador to Mexico, presenting the official U.S. account of the arrests on August 9. However, just a day later, El Mayos lawyers released a letter offering a starkly different narrative. In the letter, Zambada accused Los Chapitos of betraying him, claiming they lured him to a meeting with Sinaloa Governor Ruben Rocha and Hector Cuen, a prominent local politician who was killed on July 25. Governor Rocha, already under intense scrutiny for the states spiraling security crisis, has denied attending any such meeting and categorically rejected any ties to organized crime. In an unexpected twist, Mexicos Attorney Generals Office (FGR) launched its own investigation to uncover the events that transpired on Mexican soil that day. A week later, the FGR adopted Zambadas account as its primary line of inquiry. On August 21, the agency filed criminal charges against Joaquin Guzman Lopez for the alleged kidnapping of Zambada. Just eight days later, it announced an additional investigation into the possible involvement of his brother, Ovidio Guzman, known as El Raton, in the conspiracy to hand over El Mayo. Ovidio Guzman was arrested in January 2023 during the Mexican governments second attempt to apprehend him and was extradited to the United States in September of that year. Los Chapitos now face multiple charges, including drug trafficking, money laundering, and illegal possession of firearms, in the Northern District Court of Illinois in Chicago. Since Zambadas downfall, speculation has arisen that Joaquin Guzman may have considered handing over El Mayo and cooperating with U.S. authorities to seek leniency in the criminal cases against him and his brother. Although not explicitly mentioned, this suspicion prompted the Mexican Attorney Generals Office to announce an investigation into El Ratons potential involvement in the conspiracy to abduct El Mayo. The lawyers for Los Chapitos have denied any ongoing negotiations and dismissed the allegations surrounding El Mayos kidnapping. However, in October, they acknowledged that their clients were considering pleading guilty. While a plea agreement does not automatically imply cooperation with authorities or access to a reduced sentence, it does increase the likelihood of such a possibility. Despite reports in the Mexican media and the back-and-forth statements between the legal teams of both cartel factions, there has been no official confirmation of a negotiation. The upcoming hearing in Chicago, however, could offer insight into the legal strategy that Ovidio and Joaquin Guzman plan to pursue in their efforts to navigate the U.S. justice system as favorably as possible. Meanwhile, Zambadas lawyers have not ruled out the possibility of cooperating or pleading guilty in order to avoid going to trial. El Mayo is set to stand trial in the Eastern District Court of New York, before the same judge who sentenced El Chapo to life in prison in 2019. His next hearing is scheduled for January 15. Just five days later, Donald Trump, who has pledged to intensify the fight against the cartels and designate them as terrorist organizations, will be sworn in as President of the United States. South of the border, Culiacan, the long-standing stronghold of the criminal organization, has turned into a battlefield, and the deepening rift within the Sinaloa Cartel, the largest in over a decade, shows no sign of subsiding. Los Mayos and Los Chapitos have instilled fear in the civilian population through decapitations, murders, kidnappings, blockades, and narco-messages aimed at intimidating their rivals and the authorities. In response, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has deployed Omar Garcia Harfuch, the Secretary of Security, to coordinate the law enforcement strategy on the ground. It will last as long as necessary, said Garcia Harfuch after arriving in Sinaloa in early December, when asked when the violence in the state would come to an end. The state prosecutor and the secretary of security both resigned following the outbreak of the conflict. Amid the crisis, the outcome of the war remains uncertain, as does the fate of those living in its midst. It will last as long as necessary, said Garcia Harfuch, after arriving in Sinaloa in early December, when asked when the violence in the state will end. The prosecutor and the state secretary of security resigned after the outbreak of the conflict. Amid the crisis, the outcome of the war remains unclear, as does the fate of those caught in its midst. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Guwahati, Jan 7 : Indian Army has mobilised a relief task force to rescue the trapped coal miners at Umrangshu locality in the Dima Hasao district of Assam, officials said Tuesday. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma sought assistance from the Army to rescue the trapped miners. A senior Army official said, "On being requisitioned for assistance, the Indian Army has mobilised a relief task force for rescuing the miners trapped in Umrangshu, a remote industrial town in Dima Hasao district in Assam." The task force is equipped with divers, sappers and other necessary things. The official stated, "The relief task force comprises specialists like divers, sappers and other relevant personnel with the necessary equipment. Senior officials of the Indian Army will also be reaching the site to coordinate with civil administration for speedy rescue of the trapped miners." At least nine labourers have been identified who were trapped in a coal mine in Umrangshu locality, CM Sarma said. The state administration and police have launched an operation to rescue the trapped labourers in the mine. According to police, the exact number of labourers who got trapped inside the coal mine is still unknown. Out of the nine labourers who were trapped still in the coal mine, one is a national of Nepal, one from West Bengal and the rest hail from different parts of Assam. They have been identified as Ganga Bahadur Shreth, Hussain Ali, Jakir Hussain, Sarpa Barman, Mustafa Seikh, Khusi Mohan Rai, Sanjit Sarkar, Lijan Magar and Sarat Goyary. Taking to X, CM Sarma wrote, "We have requested the Army's assistance in the ongoing rescue operation. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are also on their way to the incident site to aid in the efforts." The CM has sent the District Commissioner and superintendent of Police of the Dima Hasao district to the site. The food and civil supply minister Kaushik Rai is also rushing to the site. "Distressing news from Umrangshu, where labourers are trapped in a coal mine. The exact number and status are yet unknown. The DC, SP, and my colleague, Shri Kaushik Rai, are rushing to the site. Praying to God for everyone's safety," Sarma mentioned in a post on X. This springs buzziest debut fiction has no shortage of drama, whether in biotech startups, Native American reservation politics, psychotherapy sessions, the Scottish theater world, or womens volleyball. The slate also contains two Hollywood-ready novels about missing persons. My Girl Missing Kristen L. Berry Theres something inherently secretive about families, according to Kristen L. Berry. A lot of folks I grew up with have a self-protective attitude of what happens in this house stays in this house. Berry, who hails from a Detroit suburb and currently lives in Los Angeles, presents a stark version of that domestic reticence in her first novel, We Dont Talk About Carol (Bantam, June). Sydney, a Los Angeles PR specialist, is cleaning out her deceased grandmothers house in Raleigh, N.C., when she comes across an old picture of her Motown-loving aunt Carol as a teen. Carol supposedly ran away from home in the 1960s to pursue a music career in Detroit, but Sydney learns she vanished during the same period in which other Black girls in the neighborhood went missing, presumed victims of the Creek Killer. Sydney, a former crime reporter, cant resist taking on the case. Berrys inspiration came from true crime podcasts like Crime Junkie and My Favorite Murder, through which she says she learned about the disproportionate cases of Black people going missing in America, which are less likely to be solved by police or covered by the press. For research, she visited her aunt and uncle in Raleigh, peppering them with questions about what it was like growing up there during the civil rights era. Berry began submitting chapters of the novel to an online writing group without a sense of where the mystery was heading. I tried to write this as a reader whos always asking, What will happen next? As an undergraduate at the University of Michigan, Berry did summer internships at the San Jose Mercury News and the Philadelphia Daily News before deciding journalism wasnt for her. I didnt like asking personal questions of people during difficult times in their lives, she says. She pivoted to public relations at a firm in Detroit, a city that makes its presence heard in the novel. Carol, hoping to make it big, practices by singing hits from the Impressions, Mary Wells, and other Motown greats. Growing up with Motown right there, I couldnt help it, Berry says with a chuckle. Couch Potato Adelaide Faith A therapists request for an online review opened a floodgate for Adelaide Faith. Faith wrote several different versions, some serious, some funny, all longer and more idiosyncratic than those by other patients. After the therapist read them, she suggested Faith pursue her writing seriously, which eventually led to Happiness Forever (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, Apr.), the story of a supercharged therapeutic transference. In the novel, Sylvie, a vet technician who has trouble connecting with people, enters therapy following a toxic relationship and finds transcendent happiness in the sessions with her unnamed therapist. She fantasizes about hugging the therapist and scours the womans mannerisms and clothing for clues as to what she is really thinking. Sylvie almost finds it unbearable that she doesnt know whats inside another person, Faith says, speaking from her home on Englands southeast coast. Faith was born in Yorkshire, where her father worked at a chicken processing plant. After a stint editing educational materials in London, she became a vet technician. She left the city after the birth of her daughter for Hastings, an idyllic seaside town full of priced-out Londoners, where she found work as a dog walker. Her editing process involved listening to her phone dictate her drafts during walks on the beach. I cut out all the bits that made me feel terrible, she says. From this process emerged the taut vignettes that make up Happiness Forever, including sketches of Sylvies therapy sessions; her budding friendship with a woman who shares her nostalgic love of Pierrot, the commedia dellarte figure of unrequited love; and her memories of past romantic relationships. Theres a hypnotic, off-kilter energy to the narrators voice as she luxuriates in fantasy and gets overwhelmed by reality. While Happiness Forever will be published this spring, Faiths therapy reviews never saw the light of day. The therapist didnt put them on her website, she says. Maternal Intuition Sarah Harman The working title of Sarah Harmans debut novel, about a missing 10-year-old boy who went to a posh London school, was Dirtbag Detective, in reference to the spirited, sleuthing mother of another student. The final title, All the Other Mothers Hate Me (Putnam, Mar.), resonated with early readers. We all have moments when we feel like outsiders, Harman says, and theres something about parenthood that brings that out in spades. Harman, who is American but lives in London and has a six-year-old son, graduated with a degree in English and psychology from Georgetown University, then spent nearly a decade in Germany as a TV news reporter and anchor before taking a London correspondent position with NBC News in 2018. Three years later, burned-out and with her contract expiring, she decided to pursue her long-held ambition to write a novel. Her darkly funny mystery, which is in development for an FX series, is narrated by Florence Grimes, a brash American and former pop star who was unceremoniously dropped from her girl band after getting pregnant. When her son Dylan becomes a suspect in his classmates disappearance, she seeks to clear his name, in between nail appointments and boozy dates. A journalist accustomed to writing on deadline, Harman made steady progress despite her extreme ignorance (her words) of the mystery genre, ending up with an anti-detective novel as much about Florences journey of self-discovery as the fate of the missing boy (a little shit, according to Florence). It was a technical challenge to have a mystery solved by a sleuth only interested in nail art and reality TV, Harman says, though she notes that Florences bleached hair and crop tops are a disguise enabling her to do more than people would assume. Beneath the novels entertaining veneer lie deeper concerns about the sexist treatment of female stars, judgmental attitudes toward mothers, and the way shame can lead people to adopt a defensive social posture. Harman compares Florence to the sharp-elbowed but vulnerable heroines of Fleabag and the movie Young Adult. Part of the joy was writing a character who was trying as hard as I was, she says of being tested as an American transplant in England. Unlike Florence, though, Harman is fairly confident that the mothers in her circle dont harbor any hatred for her. Moral Reservations Jon Hickey Mack Beck, the tribal president of Wisconsins Passage Rouge Nation in Jon Hickeys Big Chief (Simon & Schuster, Apr.), is in a tight reelection battle with a reform-minded candidate and has no qualms about using dirty tricks to remain in power. His childhood friend Mitch Caddo, a half-Anishinaabe law school graduate and budding political operative, implements Macks shady tactics, but with increasing reluctance. Reeling from the tragic death of his Anishinaabe mother, Mitch has a spiritual void, Hickey explains, and is trying to fill it with politics. Set in the days leading up to the election, the novel is a tightly coiled study of power and greed. Hickey, who belongs to the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians, stresses there is nothing inherently corrupt about reservation leaders. These are not the natural systems of government for Native people, he says. Hickeys grandparents moved from their reservation in northern Wisconsin to Chicago in the 1950s, among the hundreds of thousands of Native Americans relocated as part of the governments Indian termination policy. They returned years later, as many older people do, according to Hickey, who currently lives with his wife and two sons in San Francisco. Im on track to move back when Im 75, he says with a laugh. Raised in Minnesota and then Milwaukee, Wis., he regularly visited family members on the reservation with his mother. The reservation was always like a homeland, which I think was strange because it was only four hours away. Mitch, derisively called a J. Crew Indian by an anti-Mack tribal member, is torn between competing desires to escape the reservation and to forge a connection. All of my writing has been about that separation from the true part of your soul, Hickey says. Spilt Ink Jared Lemus They didnt tell me the truth about anything, Jared Lemus says about his parents. As a result, he grew up immersed in fiction of a kind. They told him contradictory tales about their lives, from how they met to how his father got shot. I almost didnt believe I was born in Queens until I ordered my birth certificate. Recently, he received a text from a half sister he never knew he had (another parental omission) while getting a tattoo in Malaysia. Much of Lemuss childhood was spent shuttling between Little Rock, Ark., where his father worked as a long-haul truck driver, and his parents homeland of Guatemala. The worst part was that I was in school year-round because of the different school calendars, he says. Like his upbringing, the tales in Lemuss debut collection, Guatemalan Rhapsody (Ecco, Mar.), are divided between Guatemala and the U.S. Caretaking is a central theme: a custodian cleans up graffiti on a college campus, the steward of a Guatemalan waterfall wipes away graffiti by an entitled American tourist, a medicine man attempts to revive a badly beaten child, and a bus driver offers a drug-addicted young man another future. Most characters are at crucial transitional periods, a phase very much on Lemuss mind as the parent of two children in elementary school. Lemus spent his teens and early 20s being a dumb punk rock kid, he says. After getting his girlfriend pregnant when he was 22, he enrolled in college in Little Rock, majoring in creative writing at the offhand suggestion of a guidance counselor. He went on to an MFA from the University of Pittsburgh and is currently the Kenan Visiting Writer at UNC Chapel Hill. Lemus is a lover of tattoos, and one of Guatemalan Rhapsodys standout stories, Heart Sleeves, concerns an aspiring tattooist desperately seeking to make his mark. Referring to his own tumultuous upbringing, Lemus says, I hope the marks Ive made on the world are stronger than the ones that were made on me. An Exile's Inheritance Sanam Mahloudji Sanam Mahloudjis parents fled Iran with her and her newborn sister shortly after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, first to France and then to the United States. They always hoped that theyd be able to return one day. We were waiting and waiting, but that day never came, says Mahloudji, who now lives in London. She drew on her familys exile for The Persians (Scribner, Mar.), which chronicles the fate of the Valiats, a once-powerful Iranian family separated by the revolution. Elizabeth, the matriarch, and her granddaughter, Niaz, remained in Iran, while Elizabeths children lead gilded but rootless lives in America. Mahloudji wrote the book to understand what it means for a person to be suddenly uprooted. Iranians are really tied to their past, she says. My mother is still furious that her sister named her son after Alexander the Great, who invaded Persia, even though he died around 300 BC. The Persians is narrated by five female members of the family, making up a fractured story where everyone has their way of seeing what happened and what the future might bring, Mahloudji says. The most forthright among them is Elizabeths daughter, Shirin, an event planner who caters to Houstons wealthy Iranian community. Undaunted by a career-threatening scandal, she scoffs at her adopted nations lack of ancient history (America is younger than my favorite ring) and clings to the fading glory of her family name. Mahloudji worked briefly as an investment banker in New York City before attending law school at UCLA and joining a labor law firm in Pasadena. The job was fulfilling, but she felt a persistent nag to write and began experimenting with fiction. Her father died unexpectedly shortly thereafter. Writing was tied up with losing my father, she saysa way to cope with life, to have somewhere else to be. While working on The Persians, Mahloudji didnt tell her family. After she finally came clean, she remembers that her mother talked with me about those early days of life in the U.S. in a way that Id never heard. Net Work Benedict Nguyen Benedict Nguyen likes to write about people in motion, drawing on her knowledge of movement as a professional dancer. Shes been writing about dance since 2018, but in 2021 she stumbled upon a YouTube clip of a volleyball match, at which point game recognized game. I was so in awe of their range of physical tasks and sensory awareness, Nguyen says. The algorithm did its work, pulling Nguyen deeper into the sport that would provide the subject for her debut novel, Hot Girls with Balls (Catapult, July). Its about an international indoor volleyball league whose two biggest starsSix, standing at 67, and Green, 61are an Asian American trans couple. As the narrative unfolds, the two document their relationship on a weekly online show. From its jolting title to its bold conceit, the novel invites readers to suspend disbelief and overlook the structural obstacles and social stigmas that would make Six and Greens story impossible in real life, Nguyen says. I wanted to lean into the improbability of multiple trans players. And why not make them Asian American too? she says with a laugh. Nguyen describes Hot Girls with Balls as in some sense an office novel, emphasizing the intense labor that contemporary athletes put into their personal branding. The pressure Six and Green feel to monetize their life together strains their relationship and affects their play as they face off in an international tournament. Nguyens daring vision of the sporting landscape also gives ample space to spectators and online commenters, whose remarks function as a kind of Greek chorus, alternately adulatory, leering, witty, and vicious. Nguyen calls this anonymous mob her doomscroll polyphonic narrator, an apt literary term for the Internet Age. An Acquired Taste Lucy Rose Ive seen every kind of imaginable death on screen, says Lucy Rose, a massive lover of horror movies, whose macabre novel The Lamb (Harper, Feb.) has a queer feminist flavor. It follows the cannibalistic adventures of Margot, a girl living in the woods in England with her mother and feasting upon the unfortunate strays who stumble upon their moldy cabin. When her ravenous mother begins a relationship with a beautiful woman who shares her carnal appetites, Margot is the odd one out, an edible obstacle to their domestic bliss. Even without the cannibalism, the mother-daughter relationship at the heart of The Lamb is a monstrous one. Its normal to unpack incompatibilities in romantic relationships, but its taboo to portray a familial relationship in such terms, Rose says. Margot is on the cusp of adolescence, a liminal space where your thoughts are becoming your own thoughts, the author explains. She exists in two separate moral realmsthe twisted household and normal life at schooland reconciling them becomes increasingly difficult. Rose grew up in rural Cumbria near farms, delighting in folktales told to pass the time and exploring the surrounding, and often eerie, fells. You never quite feel like youre by yourself, which is not a good feeling when you actually are by yourself, she says. Despite her love of Cumbria, Rose was desperate to just see a bus or something that resembled modern society. After high school, she moved to Newcastle, where she worked as a cleaner and, surrounded by clever and creative people, fell into the arts. She studied film production in college, though she was so jealous of everybody who was writing. She went on to write and direct five shorts between 2018 and 2023, and the economical approach to storytelling in those projects came in handy when writing The Lamb. Rose adores the horror genre but is critical of its tendency to treat the victims as faceless under-characterized fodder. Her addition to the genre strives to give each victim Margots mother boils a pinch of humanity, Rose says, even if its followed by a few dashes of salt and pepper. Revenge Play Charlotte Runcie As an unpaid intern covering Edinburghs annual Fringe Festival, Charlotte Runcie found out what it feels like to go through public shaming. After she panned a comedy show, the comedian began skewering Runcie in her set, prompting Runcie to skulk around Edinburgh wearing dark glasses. Its rare that art is either exceptional or terrible, says Runcie, who currently lives in South Wales. It follows that middling reviews are often as forgettable as the work itself. Critical pans, by contrast, are intriguing and delicious, she notes. They spur online debate, provoke alterations, and, if Lord Byron is to be believed, can even be fatal: Keats, Byron sneered in Don Juan, was killed off by one critique. With her novel Bring the House Down (Doubleday, July), Runcie turns a critical eye to reviewers behaving badly. Alex Lyons is a savage theater critic with a louche charm. He attends Edinburghs annual Fringe Festival with narrator Sophie, his junior colleague, where he files a blistering review of performer Hayley Sinclairs earnest one-woman show about climate change, then sleeps with Haley before she sees his review. Afterward, Hayley incorporates Alexs betrayal into her act, inviting women to come forward with tales of his shoddy behavior. The play becomes a phenomenon. Runcie grew up immersed in the theater worldher parents worked in the industry. After graduating from Cambridge University, she began reviewing multiple performances a day at the Fringe Festival, filing up to a half-dozen short reviews before a nightly recharge at the pub. It made me a very concise writer, she says. But it troubled me how quickly you were being forced to form an opinion. After a long career as a critic, most recently at the Telegraph, Runcie still questions who gets to decide the difference between good and bad art. Bring the House Down complicates matters by throwing sex into the mix. The late #MeToo era, Runcie says, is a really good time to explore the moral complexities of holding someone to account and taking revengeand how those two things can sometimes look very similar. Cruel Immortality Austin Taylor As a Harvard undergraduate, Austin Taylor was on track to major in chemistry when she took a literature elective called Very Contemporary Fiction. She enjoyed it so much she rethought her focus, becoming one of only two Harvard students ever (the other was her classmate) to double major in chemistry and English. With Notes on Infinity (Celadon, June), a tangled tale of biotech gone awry, Taylor shifts the boundaries of the campus novel, portraying a newly pressurized student culture. If students arent doing something incredible, theyre failing, she says. In the novel, Harvard undergraduates Zoe and Jack launch Manna, an anti-aging startupthe ugly stepchild of science, says Tayloron the claim that theyve discovered a revolutionary gene-editing technology that could lead to immortality. Despite providing Mannas key theoretical breakthrough, Zoe assumes a public-facing role, spinning a narrative to investors and the public while Jack works in the lab. Taylor wanted to explore what its like to be a woman in STEM. Were very much invited to the party, but our presence does change the party, and not all of the attendees are thrilled, she says. The specter of Elizabeth Holmes, the founder of Theranos who was convicted of fraud, haunts the novel. Her gender affected the narrative on both ends of the scandal, Taylor says, noting that Holmes was first viewed as a girl wonder and then as some sort of devil. Taylor, who graduated in 2021 and currently splits her time between the Boston area and central Maine, was accepted to Harvard Law School but deferred and ultimately withdrew to write her novel. She is in the process of reapplying, and plans to focus on ethical issues around technologies like artificial intelligence and gene editing. She recalls asking one of her professors what he thought young people should be working on, and he told her, We need to figure out what the boundaries are around what makes us human, because technologies are emerging that will erode those boundaries. In Notes on Infinity, she explores arguably the most human boundary of allmortality. Matt Seidel is a writer and translator living in Massachusetts. This article has been updated. Read more from our Writers to Watch feature. On December 20, eight major French publishing organizations announced the creation of Fileas, a new platform that will track book unit sales data, the first such industry-wide initiative in the country. The founding members include the French Publishers Association (Syndicat National de lEdition, SNE), the Bookstore Circle, Dilicom, the Association for the Development of Creative Bookstores (ADELC), the French Booksellers' Union (SLF), the Association of Computerized Libraries and Users of Electronic Networks (ALIRE), the Permanent Council of Writers (CPE), and the Society of Men of Letters (SGDL). A committee comprising authors, publishers, booksellers, as well as other institutional partners and public and government authorities, will oversee the company. This structure, according to SNE, aims to ensure the project maintains its focus on serving the broadest possible interests of the industry. Harriet Seegmuller, previously an executive with ARTE, will serve as director of Fileas and author Alban Cerisier is chairperson. The platform will launch with weekly sales data from market research firm GfK. A subsequent phase will introduce daily sales tracking, initially drawing from more than 700 bookstores. The system will integrate existing industry resources, including the Electre Authors database and the Exhaustive Book File (FEL). Authors will have free access to their sales data, while publishers, distributors, and other industry players will be able to access the service through subscriptions scaled to their organization's size. News of the launch will be welcome by the industry as and it has been a long-time coming. Antoine Gallimard, then president of the SNE and CEO of Gallimard, initially pushed for such a program as far back as 2012. The first phase of Fileas is scheduled to launch in 2025, with an official presentation planned for the Paris Book Festival, April 11-13. Find a great selection of commercial real estate, manufactured homes, timeshares and more for Sale Buy real estate. Find a great selection of commercial real estate, manufactured homes, timeshares and more for Sale in US and Canada. Search Real Estate After almost three years in office, the time has come to embark on the return trip. Ken Salazar is scheduled to give his last press conference this Monday as the United States representative in Mexico, following Donald Trumps victory at the November elections and a torrent of tension between both countries in recent months. The farewell of the ambassador in the cowboy hat marks the beginning of a new political cycle in the bilateral relationship, and anticipates a drastic shift in Washingtons policy towards its neighbor: from strategic tolerance to permanent pressure; from talk of cooperation and shared responsibilities to threats and transactional agreements; from Salazar to Ronald Johnson, Trumps new soldier on Mexican soil. We are ready for a new era in the bilateral relationship, Salazar said in his first speech as ambassador in September 2021. I come to Mexico proud of my Mexican and American roots, of our shared history, and of the prosperous future that we will build together, he added at the time. Since then, he has always been seen wearing his famous sombrero, a tribute to his ranching roots and an essential piece of armor in his meetings with governors, entrepreneurs and the then-President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. With Salazars appointment, Joe Biden was opting for an eminently political profile Salazar is also a former senator and former Secretary of the Interior and for an ally of his absolute trust to oversee first-hand the relationship with the Mexican executive. Salazar immediately understood that the success of his mission depended on reaching an understanding with Lopez Obrador, who was barely two years older than him. He understood that the president was a man of symbols, a veteran politician with a humble past, like himself. He identified the needs and red lines of his interlocutor, after the traumatic legacy of Trumps first presidency. And he understood that he could manage within a range of ambivalences to be the transmission belt between both presidents: to represent the interests of the White House, which is the main task of any ambassador, while at the same time acting as the friendly face of American diplomacy. The ambassador, always more of a politician than a diplomat, came and went frequently from the National Palace in Mexico City. He valued his Mexican allies as equals. He offered to build bridges and not walls. He did not attach special importance to criticism or outbursts against the DEA or the State Department in the presidents morning press conferences, Las Mananeras. In exchange, the Mexican president granted him the right of access, and reciprocated with declarations of goodwill. He is my friend and he is a good, sensible man, Lopez Obrador said about Salazar in July 2022. During Salazars term, Mexico became the United States main trading partner. Washington was receptive to Mexicos request to stop arms trafficking. The Bicentennial Agreement was signed, a new framework for security cooperation. The extraditions that had dropped to a minimum during Enrique Pena Nietos presidency were restored. And Lopez Obrador held back the flow of migration, the Achilles heel of the Biden Administration. Both governments constantly insisted that the relationship was extraordinary. But at the same time, and beyond the grandiose statements, many analysts regretted a lack of ambition by both countries to take the relationship to the next level. The desire for an immigration reform that might benefit millions of Mexicans in the United States never took shape. The divergences in the fight against organized crime became evident, to the tune of Lopez Obradors claims that fentanyl is not produced here. Millions of dollars in funds to strengthen security cooperation remained on hold. The intention to address the social causes of the migration phenomenon in Central America remained just that. Salazar was quite public in his doubts about the energy reform, to cite an example, while the Mexican authorities viewed with suspicion any hint of intervention or criticism about Mexicos domestic politics. Outwardly, optimism was still present, but the wear and tear also became more evident. And then, the controversy surrounding the capture of Ismael El Mayo Zambada in the United States and the controversial judicial reform in the Mexican Congress got in the way. Salazar expressed his discomfort from the beginning with the presidents legislative project, first in a subtle way and in the end, without any reservations. Popular direct election of judges is a major risk to the functioning of Mexicos democracy, he said in August. Lopez Obrador described the statements as arrogant and interventionist and in September he imposed a confusing diplomatic pause on the U.S. embassy, a figure with no basis in international law, but which underscored the break with Salazar. Towards the end of Lopez Obradors government, the relationship with the ambassador had reached a standstill. In the eyes of the ruling party, Salazar went from partner to uncomfortable character, a role in which he remained pigeonholed after Claudia Sheinbaum came to power in October. A week after Trumps victory at the polls, everything went up in smoke. Mexico is not safe, Salazar said in mid-November. The strategy of hugs, not bullets does not work, he added. Aware that the Republicans victory put an expiration date on his own stay in Mexico, the ambassador criticized the strategy of the Mexican authorities and accused Lopez Obrador of cutting off ties with Washington. He also said that the stagnation had been going on for more than a year and, although he did not point to a specific trigger, he noted that the capture of El Mayo in July and the subsequent reproaches were a decisive factor. The doors were closed then by the Government of Mexico, never by the United States, he said. Despite his criticism of Lopez Obrador and the unanswered questions surrounding the arrest of El Mayo, Salazar continued courting Sheinbaum, with whom he had already had contact before. But the new president did not see the point in reestablishing the relationship with the outgoing ambassador or sending a signal that could distance her from her predecessor and mentor, Lopez Obrador. For the Mexican government, Trumps return to the White House became the new priority. With two weeks to go before Trump takes office, all the critical areas of the bilateral relationship are compromised: migration, trade and the fight against organized crime. The incoming ambassador, Ron Johnson, is a former Green Beret with two decades of experience in the CIA. With a completely different resume to Salazars, one would need to go back more than 30 years to find a profile with similar characteristics in the American embassy. In mid-December, Salazar held his last major public event: the unveiling of the new U.S. embassy in Mexico City, still under construction. The diplomat wanted to use the embassy as a symbol to illustrate that, despite the uncertainty over Trump, the ties between the two countries are permanent and will continue to grow. He also made the ceremony a testament to his own legacy, despite all the recent misunderstandings and conflicts. We are more united than ever, he said in nostalgic tones. His tenure will go down as a reflection of the promise of a shared future, but also of the suspicions and tensions that continue to exist between two countries condemned to understand one another. It is a promise that at this political moment seems likely to take a backseat, at least for the next four years. The 69-year-old cowboy announced that he will take the road back to Colorado on January 7, one day after his last message in Mexico. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Georgias season came to a crushing end Thursday night after falling to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish 23-10 in the Sugar Bowl. For many, the storyline of this matchup was redshirt-sophomore quarterback Gunner Stockton making his first career start in the CFP playoffs something no quarterback in the history of college football has done. Stockton was dubbed as the deciding factor against Notre Dame with analysts and fans alike feeling as though he would be a cause for Georgia going home and not a reason they could win. Many were hoping that with Vajpayee's NDA gone, there would be a return to the Congress normal. Nobody was prepared for the opposite. Sonia Gandhi was sceptical. This became the only issue over which Manmohan Singh took on his party bosses and risked his government. Politically, it was riskier than the 1991 reform, recalls Shekhar Gupta. IMAGE: Then prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh and then US President George W Bush on the day India and the US signed the nuclear deal, July 18, 2005. Photograph: Jim Young/Reuters Millions of words are being written and spoken about Dr Manmohan Singh, most of these will focus on the reforms he introduced in 1991. We can understand how his life is often seen monochromatically by his admirers -- including those who don't vote for the Congress and probably never have. That's very unkind to him in many ways. One, it limits him and his legacy to something he had done almost a decade-and-a-half before he became the prime minister of India. Second, it gives him sole credit for the reform, even though it was P V Narasimha Rao, then the prime minister, who carried the political risk for what was done in 1991. That reform is, therefore, as much to Rao's credit as it is to Singh's. And third, because it limits his legacy to this jugalbandi and denies him the place he deserves in our history for the other substantive contributions he made as prime minister. These range from strategic and foreign affairs to politics. When Singh became prime minister in the summer of 2004, much of the discussion was about what kind of economic agenda the UPA was going to follow. Was he going to pick up the thread from where he and Rao had left it in 1996, or would he return to the ideology of his party and its largest parliamentary ally, the Left Front? Even the most astute watchers of North and South Blocks were not prepared for the more substantive and historic changes to come in foreign and strategic policy. This was especially so given the Congress's chronic suspicion of the US and the West and its persistent nostalgia for the Non-Aligned Movement and Third-Worldism. If you had told someone on the morning of July 24, 1991, that by the afternoon, Rao would junk Jawaharlal Nehru's 1956 Industrial Policy Resolution with one speech from the industry minister preceding the Budget (Rao held the industry portfolio), you'd have been asked to get your head examined. You'd need to have been even more brainless in the summer of 2004 to imagine that within a couple of years, a Left-of-Centre coalition, surviving at the sufferance of the Left Front with 61 MPs, would be finalising India's first substantive treaty with the US. A strategic one, as it turned out. This change was rooted in deep, intellectual thinking, even more so than the reforms of 1991. Then, at least there was the alibi of a crisis, the demands of the IMF. There was no such compulsion to reposition India strategically. That India had to warm up to the West is an idea that had been brewing since Indira Gandhi's return in 1980, when she was deeply troubled by the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan and India's strategic compulsion to back it at the UN. She did reach out to Ronald Reagan at Cancun in 1981. But the relationship didn't pick up pace. Rajiv Gandhi and then Rao also made some moves, but these were carefully measured baby steps. Of course, the Soviet Union had disappeared, but suspicion and scepticism of the US were still formidable. Atal Bihari Vajpayee made some significant moves, and was attacked by the Congress for the 'shift'. IMAGE: Dr Singh and George W Bush on the day India and the US signed the nuclear deal, July 18, 2005. Photograph: Eric Draper/The White House Manmohan Singh's success lay in making the same shift much more decisively as the head of a Congress government. It was also audacious, in my book even more so than the 1991 reform, given how little support this had within his party and among the UPA partners. The Congress was still filled with Cold Warriors, including some of his senior-most Cabinet colleagues. And 10, Janpath was simply not prepared for it. Nor did it see the need or compulsion. Forget support, there was deep resistance -- even resentment -- in the foreign service bureaucracy. Many there were hoping that with Vajpayee's NDA gone, there would be a return to the Congress normal. Nobody was prepared for the opposite. Sonia Gandhi was sceptical and particularly trusting of the Left leaders, who saw it as an outrage and betrayal. This became the only issue over which Manmohan Singh took on his own party bosses and risked his government. Politically, it was riskier than the 1991 reform. Rao did not have any party bosses to worry about then, nor did he need the Left. In Ronen Sen, then India's ambassador to Washington, Singh found a vital ally, as he enjoyed the confidence of the Gandhi household. For a more detailed story on this, you'll need to wait for Mr Sen's memoir, which I suspect he's in no hurry to write. This was when he admonished India's MPs for running around 'like headless chickens'. Ultimately, he was the one who convinced 10, Janpath, along with K Natwar Singh, the old diplomat, foreign minister, and a family confidant. Was it worth the risk? Could the gains from it be compared with the reform of 1991? Economic benefit is not always fungible with votes, especially when it comes to the new middle class. The gain a strategic change brings is even less tangible. It will mean nothing in an election, unless you were able to use this to project the image of a strongman ruler adored in global capitals. Manmohan Singh wasn't designed for that. Critics said the deal would bring no gigawatts of nuclear power. Our argument was that this deal wasn't about nuclear power. It was about a post-Cold War strategic repositioning of India as a friend and partner of the US and the West. That was how the course of history was changed. Mani Shankar Aiyar, stridently opposed to the deal, got it right when he told me: "At least you are honest and straightforward in saying what this deal is, and what it isn't. It isn't about nuclear power, but strategic repositioning. That I oppose." IMAGE: A Communist Party of India-Marxist-led 'anti-imperialism' protest in Kolkata, September 1, 2008, protesting price rise, the Manmohan Singh government's foreign policy and the India-US nuclear deal. Photograph: Jayanta Shaw/Reuters Narendra Modi's BJP picked up the baton and ran with it, but L K Advani's was opposed to the deal. In a 2008 interview, coinciding with the release of his memoir, Mr Advani taunted me, saying I was an even bigger supporter of the deal than the Congress. His BJP called it an end to India's strategic autonomy and even joined hands with the Left in the vote of confidence to defeat the Congress. We know the rest. I will take you back to two particular points Manmohan Singh made in his speech defending the deal. One, he ridiculed Mr Advani, somewhat uncharacteristically, by saying that he forced this vote only because his astrologer told him that he was going to become the prime minister of India. And second, he read out the immortal lines from the Tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh's Dasam Granth, invoking the almighty for blessings before going into battle with the enemy: 'Deh shiva var mohe keh, shubh karman te kabahun na taron/na daron ari son jab jaye laron, nischay kar apni jeet karon (O Shiva, bless me so I never flinch from doing the right thing. Fearlessly, when I fling myself into battle with the enemy, give me the strength to emerge victorious).' It's a brilliant, stirring verse. It was also my school prayer once, in Bathinda, Punjab. In November 2021, Prime Minister Modi used the same lines while announcing the withdrawal of the farm reform laws on the 552nd birth anniversary of Guru Nanak. The same verse from the Tenth Guru was used to persist with a risky reform, and to withdraw one. In a way that is both spiritual and poetic -- it underlines the challenge and loneliness of the reformer in India. By special arrangement with The Print Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com Fugitive gangster Anmol Bishnoi allegedly ordered the killing of Nationalist Congress Party politician Baba Siddique to "create an atmosphere of terror" through his organised crime syndicate, as per the charge sheet filed by the Mumbai police on Monday. IMAGE: Slain NCP leader Baba Siddique. Photograph: ANI Photo The crime branch named 29 accused in the 4,590-page charge sheet, including 26 already arrested and three wanted persons, including Anmol Bishnoi, the brother of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. Two other wanted persons are suspected co-conspirators, Mohammad Yasin Akhtar and Shubham Lonkar. The police said they have collected strong evidence against all the 29 accused. The crime branch filed the charge sheet in a special Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act court in Mumbai. The police stated that Anmol Bishnoi, along with other members of his organised crime syndicate, hatched a conspiracy to create terror and dominance, leading to the invocation of stringent MCOCA. Former Maharashtra minister Siddique, 66, was shot dead on October 12, 2024, by three assailants outside his son Zeeshan Siddique's office in the Bandra area of Mumbai. The 26 arrested accused include the alleged main shooter Shivkumar Gautam and his aides. The police booked them under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for murder before invoking MCOCA against all of them. The arrested accused are currently in judicial custody. The police recorded statements of 88 people so far and listed a total of 180 witnesses, including former MLA Zeeshan Siddique, and recovered five firearms, six magazines, and 35 mobile phones. The investigators had earlier told the court that the role of Lawrence Bishnoi had not been established in the crime. During one of the remand hearings, the police had told the court that Anmol Bishnoi was operating a separate gang, mainly active in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh. The prosecution had told the court that Anmol Bishnoi was trying to establish his supremacy as a gang leader. A Mumbai Police official said in November that they had sent a proposal for extradition of Anmol Bishnoi, wanted in some high-profile crimes including the murder of Baba Siddique after US authorities informed them about his presence in their country. Both Lawrence and Anmol Bishnoi were named as wanted accused in the April 14 firing incident outside the Bollywood actor Salman Khan's Galaxy Apartment in Mumbai's Bandra area. The National Investigation Agency had announced a reward of Rs 10 lakh for information leading to the arrest of Anmol Bishnoi. Lawrence Bishnoi is currently lodged in Sabarmati Jail in Gujarat. A lookout circular was issued in April against Anmol Bishnoi, who had claimed responsibility for the firing incident outside Salman Khan's residence. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi on Monday broke down while addressing a press conference in New Delhi over Bharatiya Janata Party leader Ramesh Bidhuri's remarks against her. IMAGE: Delhi Chief Minister Atishi breaks down while addressing a press conference in New Delhi over BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri's remarks against her. Photograph: ANI on X BJP's Kalkaji candidate Bidhuri on Sunday courted controversy for his remarks on Atishi's surname. Responding to Bidhuri's charge, Atishi said, "How can our politics downgrade so much? He should show what work he has done for Kalkaji when he was MP for 10 years." He should ask for votes based on his work, not by abusing my father, she added. Speaking at BJP's 'Parivartan Rally' in Rohini that was later addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bidhuri said Atishi changed her surname from "Marlena" to "Singh". Atishi, who is the sitting MLA from the Kalkaji Assembly seat, dropped her surname a while back. "This Marlena (surname used earlier by Atishi) became Singh and changed her name. Kejriwal swore over his children not to go with the corrupt Congress; Marlena changed fathers. Earlier she was Marlena; now she has become Singh. This is their character," Bidhuri charged. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Monday (local time) that he would resign as the leader of Liberal Party and as prime Minister as soon as a new candidate is found for the post. IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets Canadian PM Justin Trudeau at the G7 Outreach Summit, in Apulia, Italy, June 15, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo Trudeau said that he had spoken to the Liberal Party President to start looking for a new prime ministerial candidate. "I intend to resign as party leader and as prime minister after the party choses next leader. If I have to fight internal battles I can't be a good candidate. I have asked the liberal part president to search for a new candidate for the post of Prime Minister," he said. Trudeau said that the Parliament House will now be prorogued till March 24. "We have worked for this country. We are at a critical moment in the world. Canadian resilience motivates me to serve. I am a fighter. Every bone in my body has always told me to fight because I care deeply about Canadians, I care deeply about this country and I will always be motivated by what is in the best interest of Canadians," he said. "The fact is despite best efforts to work through it, Parliament has been paralysed for months after what has been the longest session of a minority Parliament in Canadian history. That's why this morning, I advised the Governor General that we need a new session of Parliament. She has granted this request and the House will now be prorogued until March 24. Over the holidays, I have also had a chance to reflect and to have long talks with my family about our future." "Throughout the course of my career, any success I have personally achieved has been because of their support, their encouragement. So, last night over dinner I told my kids about the decision that I am sharing with you today. I intend to resign as party leader, as Prime Minister after the party selects its next leader...Last night I asked the president of the Liberal Party to begin that process. This country deserves a real choice in the next election and it has become clear to me that I am having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election," Trudeau said. Truedau said that he will not put forth his candidature as a potential Prime Minister. "I will not be putting my candidature. Liberal party is an important institution in our country. We were elected for 3rd time in 2021 to advance Canada's stand in world. I never bow down when faced with a fight but I do this job because of the interest of Canadians and the interest of democracy that I hold dear. And it is clear I can't be that candidate due to internal battles," he said. Trudeau, while speaking about Former Canadian Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland said that he expected her to continue as the Deputy Prime Minister. "Chrystia (Freeland) has been a political partner for many years. I had hope she would continue as deputy pm but she chose otherwise," he said. Trudeau added that Pierre Pollivere of the Conservative Party was not right for the country. "Pierre Pollivere's vision is not right for this country," he said. Governor General Mary Simon has given her permission to prorogue Parliament until March 24. However, a new leader of the Liberal party may not find the going easy with the conservatives threatning to move a confidence motion against them. The Madhya Pradesh high court in Jabalpur on Monday directed the state government to take steps within six weeks for disposal of Bhopal-based Union Carbide's 337 tonnes of hazardous waste as per safety protocols, while restraining the media from publishing any fake news on the same. IMAGE: Trucks laden with Union Carbide's 337 tonnes of hazardous waste at the disposal site in Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh, January 6, 2025. Photograph: ANI on X A division bench of Chief Justice SK Kait and Justice Vivek Jain said its December 2024 order directing for all waste material to be taken from the Bhopal plant for disposal was sufficient and hence does not require any further orders or directives. The Advocate General, representing the state government, had sought permission from the HC to unload the toxic material from the container trucks parked at Pithampur town in Dhar district. The toxic chemical waste is supposed to be incinerated at a site in the industrial town, 250 km from Bhopal, but the move is facing stiff resistance from local residents. Hearing a petition of 2004 on the issue of disposal of the hazardous waste, the court said no further directives was required from it and that it was for the government to now take steps for disposal. "It is pertinent to mention here that vide order dated 03.12.2024, this Court directed to take waste material from Bhopal and dispose off the same as per norms. Thus, no further order is required to be passed to unload the waste material. It is for the State to unload and dispose of the waste material as per (December 3) direction of this Court," the four-page order said. In an affidavit submitted before the HC, the government informed the court that pursuant to its December 3 last year order, the waste was loaded in 12 fire proof and leak proof containers and transported in the long haul trailers/trucks on the night of January 1 with the support of the police and the administration. "A green corridor was provided to the convoy and the transportation was done as per the approved SOP and tender requirements which were totally in line with the Central Pollution Control Board guidelines," the affidavit noted. The government informed the HC that there has been a huge public outcry on the basis of certain fictitious media report in which "baseless rumours have been floated with the various sections of the media to paint a picture that another industrial disaster would take place if the waste is unloaded and disposed off at the facility at Pithampur which would lead to severe environmental implications." The court directed the print media and electronic media "not to publish any fake news in the matter of disposal of waste material which is not real or not based on any foundation/evidence." The government also informed the court that it would need some time to to infuse confidence in the public and "dispel their myths by giving them factual inputs so that they may not be misguided by the fake news and the wrongful information floated by miscreants and vested interest." The court gave six weeks' time to the government for complying with its December 3 order, in which the HC had directed the state authorities to dispose of the toxic waste lying at the now-defunct Union Carbide factory in Bhopal. The court had said even 40 years after the gas disaster, the authorities are in a "state of inertia" that may cause "another tragedy". Describing it as a "sorry state of affairs", the high court had asked the government to remove and transport the hazardous waste from the site within four weeks, failing which it will have to face contempt proceedings. Following the order, the waste was shifted on intervening nights of January 1 and 2 from the Union Carbide factory to the disposal site at Pithampur. The shifting of waste led to widespread protests in the industrial town and on Friday last, two men attempted self-immolation amid a bandh call given by the Pithampur Bachao Samiti. The town, some 50km from the district headquarters and a major industrial belt, saw protests on Friday and Saturday, with residents carrying out sit-ins and a mob pelting stones at the gate of the unit where the waste is set to be disposed of. However, on Monday normalcy returned to the town and markets remained open, people were seen moving about like other days and police barricades had gone from most parts of the town with a population of 1.75 lakh. Pithampur, some 30 kilometres from MP's commercial capital Indore, is home to at least 700 industrial units. Rachna Dingra of the Bhopal Group for Information and Action (BGIA), an organisation working for the 1984 gas tragedy survivors and an intervener in the case since 2005, told the court in person that Union Carbide and (its current owner) Dow Chemicals should be asked to take the toxic waste to the US or to any OECD country. She submitted that the last HC order (of December 3, 2024) asked for removal of the entire toxic material and contended that 337 tonnes transported from the factory was only 1 per cent of the total waste. Nearly 1.1 million tonnes of waste is lying inside and outside the factory which has contaminated the groundwater in 42 communities in a population of more than 1,00,000, Dingra told court. BGIA counsel Avi Singh told the court online from Delhi that the government's counsel has pointed out that they have shifted the toxic material without testing what it constitutes. Advocate Naman Nagrath, representing petitioner late Alok Pratap Singh, who had filed the plea in 2004, submitted the waste should be disposed of safely The Federal Bureau of Investigation has revealed new details about the New Orleans attacker Shamsud Din Jabbar and said tha he travelled to Cairo and Ontario prior to the attack and used Meta glasses to record the street. IMAGE: New Orleans attacker Shamsud Din Jabbar. Photograph: FBI The FBI in a press release said, "We have tracked that Jabbar travelled to Cairo, Egypt from June 22 until July 3 of 2023. A few days later, he flew to Ontario, Canada on July 10 and returned to the US on July 13. Our agents are getting answers as to where he went, who he met with, and how those trips may or may not tie into his actions here in New Orleans. We've also discovered Jabbar made at least two trips to New Orleans in the months prior to the attacks: one in October and the other a month later in November." "From what we know now, Jabbar stayed at a rental home in New Orleans beginning October 30, 2024. He was in town for at least two days. During that time, Jabbar, using Meta glasses, recorded video as he rode through the French Quarter on a bicycle. Meta glasses appear to look like regular glasses, but they allow the user to record photos and videos hands free. They also allow the user to potentially live stream their video," it added. The FBI further revealed that Jabbar was wearing a pair of Meta glasses when he conducted the attack on Bourbon Street but he did not activate the glasses to live stream his actions that day. Earlier on January 2, United States President Joe Biden had informed that the New Orleans attacker had a remote detonator in his vehicle to set off Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) that he planted in the ice coolers in the French Quarter before ramming his car into the crown on Bourbon street. The FBI recovered the two IEDs that Jabbar placed in the coolers, CNN reported. "They've established that the attacker is the same person who planted the explosives in those ice coolers in two nearby locations in the French Quarter just a few hours before he rammed into the crowd with his vehicle. They assessed he had a remote detonator in his vehicle to set off those two ice chests," Biden had said. Fifteen people, including the attacker, were killed in the New Orleans attack on New Year's night. The FBI had established that the attacker, who carried out this "act of terrorism," was an ISIS supporter. An ISIS flag was found in his vehicle and the suspect had admitted his support in a series of videos he posted online. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa, Ontario, after signing a book of condolences on the passing of former U.S. president Jimmy Carter. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday following a decline in popularity and a crisis within his government that has left him politically weakened. Trudeau is stepping down as leader of the Liberal Party but will remain as prime minister until a new leader is appointed. Having led the Canadian government for nearly a decade, his resignation marks the end of an era. The Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre, now leads the polls by a wide margin, while the Liberals are in free fall, having lost much of their electorates support. Elections must be held by October at the latest. Trudeau made the announcement outside his red brick Rideau Cottage residence in Ottawa, the countrys capital, in temperatures around 12F (-11C). As he announced his resignation, which had been previously leaked, he sought to defend his leadership. We are at a critical moment in the world, he said. Ive fought for this country, for you. The Canadian politician, who became leader of the Liberal Party in April 2013, led the party to power in October 2015 with a progressive agenda focused on womens rights and a promise to combat climate change. His platform and personal appeal captivated an electorate that returned the Liberals to power in 2019 and during the early elections of September 2021, though without securing enough seats to govern alone. Calls for Trudeaus resignation had been growing since December, when he attempted to remove Finance Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, one of his closest allies, after she opposed his proposals to increase spending. Freelands resignation further weakened the prime ministers position. In her resignation letter, the ousted minister accused Trudeau of engaging in political stunts instead of focusing on what was best for the country. Trudeau, 53, had previously managed to fend off pressure from Liberal lawmakers concerned about the partys standing in the polls. However, in recent weeks, at least two dozen lawmakers and several regional party groups including those in Atlantic Canada, Quebec, and Ontario have called for his resignation. Earlier, Jagmeet Singh, leader of the New Democratic Party and Trudeaus main parliamentary ally, had pledged to introduce a motion to bring down the government in the House of Commons. The Conservatives, who have been leading the polls for more than a year, also promised to table a no-confidence motion against the Liberal government. However, along with his resignation, Trudeau has decided to delay the parliamentary session until March 24 to allow time for the appointment of a successor. Freeland herself, along with new Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc and former Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney, are all potential candidates to replace Trudeau. The prime minister has reportedly discussed with LeBlanc whether he would be willing to step in as interim leader and prime minister, the Canadian media outlet Globe & Mail reported on Sunday. With Trudeaus resignation, there are also likely to be calls for early elections to establish a stable government capable of effectively facing the Donald Trump administration in the United States over the next four years. The crisis within Trudeaus government was further exacerbated by a humiliating incident with Trump, who referred to him as the governor of the Great State of Canada, implying that Canada was part of the United States. Trump also threatened Canada with imposing 25% tariffs on all imports unless the country halted the flow of drugs and immigrants across its border. In response, Trudeau urgently traveled to Mar-a-Lago, Trumps mansion in Palm Beach, Florida, in an attempt to mend relations. The United States is the destination for three-quarters of Canadian exports. Like many Western countries, Canada has spent heavily on combating the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, significantly increasing its deficit and national debt. However, the sharp rise in prices, a global trend, has further eroded Trudeaus popularity, particularly due to the overheating of the real estate market and the pressures caused by the massive arrival of immigrants. Despite implementing restrictions on housing purchases by foreigners, the Trudeau governments efforts have done little to alleviate the problem. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition As India reported cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) on Monday, Union Health Minister JP Nadda said the government is closely monitoring the situation and there is no reason to worry. IMAGE: Union Health Minister JP Nadda addresses the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, in Bengaluru, January 3, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo He said HMPV is not a new virus and no surge in any of the common respiratory virus pathogens has been observed in the country. In a video message, Nadda said in the wake of the recent reports of HMPV in China, the health ministry, the ICMR, the country's apex health research body, and the National Centre for Disease Control are keeping a close watch on the situation in China and other neighbouring countries. The WHO has "taken cognisance of the situation and will share the report shortly with us", he said. "The country data for respiratory viruses available with ICMR and integrated disease surveillance programme has also been reviewed and no surge in any of the common respiratory virus pathogens is observed in India," Nadda said. The joint monitoring meeting was held under the Chairmanship of DGHS on January 4 to review this situation. "The health systems and surveillance network of the country remain vigilant in ensuring the country is ready to respond promptly to any emerging health challenge. There is no reason to worry we are closely monitoring the situation," he said. He said that health experts have clarified that HMPV is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001 and it has been circulating in the entire world. HMPV spreads through the air by way of respiration, Nadda stated. This can affect persons of all age groups, he said. The virus spreads more during winter and early spring months. Meanwhile, two more children have tested positive for HMPV and are currently undergoing treatment, a health official said on Monday. These two are the first cases to be reported from the city from two hospitals. Further details are awaited. With this, the country's HMPV cases rose to five. Earlier, two infants in Karnataka and one in Gujarat along with two children in Tamil Nadu have tested positive for HMPV, health officials said on Monday. The Indian Council of Medical Research detected the two cases of HMPV in Karnataka through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens, the Union health ministry said on Monday. A three-month-old female infant with a history of bronchopneumonia was diagnosed with HMPV after being admitted to Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru. She has already been discharged, the ministry said. An eight-month-old male infant with a history of bronchopneumonia tested positive for HMPV on January 3 after being admitted to Baptist Hospital. He is now recovering, it said. It is important to note that neither of the patients have any history of international travel, the ministry underlined. It emphasised that HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and cases of respiratory illnesses associated with it have been reported in various countries. The ministry said it is monitoring the situation through all available surveillance channels. The ICMR will continue to track trends in HMPV circulation throughout the year. The recent preparedness drill conducted across the country has shown that India is well-equipped to handle any potential increase in respiratory illnesses and public health interventions can be deployed promptly if needed, the ministry stated. Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor, who was arrested for an "illegal" fast unto death, claimed that he was released on "unconditional" bail on Monday hours after a court remanded him to judicial custody. IMAGE: Jan Suraaj chief Prashant Kishor has been fast unto death since January 2. Photograph: Screen grab/ANI on X Earlier, he refused to secure release, alleging that the bail conditions were "unreasonable". On a day of dramatic developments, Kishor was picked up from the Gandhi Maidan early in the morning, in pursuance of an FIR lodged against him last week for holding 'Aamaran anshan' (fast unto death) at Gandhi Maidan, in violation of a Patna high court order that forbids any such demonstration at a place other than Gardani Bagh locality in the city. The former poll strategist was produced before a court in Patna which granted him bail with the condition that, he claimed, he must give a written undertaking not to take part in any "illegal" protest in future. Kishor and his legal team held that the condition was tantamount to "admitting guilt" and the 47-year-old was remanded to judicial custody. The Jan Suraaj Party founder was later released by the authorities. Kishor, who addressed the media late in the evening upon his release, claimed, "The local administration was so ill-prepared that it could not take me to the Beur Central Jail, after judicial remand, since they did not have the requisite papers. They kept driving me along in their vehicle". Patna high court advocate Kumar Amit, who also spoke on the occasion, said, "After the judge had passed the order, we argued before her that all the sections under which Prashant Kishor was booked, are bailable. As such, he should have been granted bail by the police itself. The matter need not have been taken to the court". He added, "We reasoned before the judge that under such circumstances, it was not proper to insist on a written undertaking. We also cited a number of judgements by the higher courts, including the Supreme Court. The judge very kindly agreed to modify her earlier order and granted unconditional bail". An ebullient Kishor said he would continue his "Satyagraha" at the Gandhi Maidan and remarked, "The concluding point should be the same as where things had commenced". Notably, Kishor has thrown his weight behind an ongoing protest by civil service aspirants to press the demand for cancellation of Bihar Public Service Commission exams held last month amid allegations of question paper leak. Kishor had staged a protest at Gandhi Maidan on December 30, which ended in lathi charge and use of water cannons by police, and sent one of his party colleagues as part of a delegation that spoke to Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena but failed to break the deadlock. With no end in sight to the impasse, the former election strategist launched the "Aamaran Anshan" (fast unto death) on January 2, demanding, besides cancellation of the December 13 exams, a "white paper" on all question paper leaks in the state in past one decade and a "domicile policy" so that two-thirds of government posts were reserved for people haiing from Bihar. An upbeat Kishor said, "Our stir will continue. I will disclose more about my strategy tomorrow. We are also exploring the option of moving the court seeking cancellation of the exam". His attention was also drawn to a snide remark of RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav that the entire episode looked like "a movie, with a complet star cast of actors, director and producer, complete with a vanity van", an allusion to the luxury vehicle which Kishor has been using for some time. The Jan Suraaj Party founder replied, "It is my suggestion to both Tejashwi Yadav and Rahul Gandhi that they pro-actively come out in support of the demands which are not about my party but the future of the state's youth. They need to realise that politics is not all about posting on social media". Often accused of being the "B Team" of the state's ruling NDA, Kishor claimed, "Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is physically and mentally tired and the government is being run by a handful of his trusted aides who happen to be retired bureaucrats". "Please make it a point to ask the district administration tomorrow, why were the officials concerned in a hurry to take me away from the court while the matter was being re-heard. Will any action be taken against such officials who seem to be in an overdrive? "There are some police personnel who heed their conscience. One of them lent me his jacket as I was shivering in the biting cold. But they seem to be under pressure from their higher above who keep getting orders from the CM's office", Kishor alleged. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday alleged that some of the 95 fishermen, who were released by the Bangladesh government recently, were beaten up in jail in the neighbouring country. IMAGE: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee felicitates fishermen who were released from prison in Bangladesh ahead of Gangasagar Mela, in South 24 Parganas. Photograph: ANI Photo Banerjee felicitated the fishermen, who had been arrested for illegally entering Bangladesh waters, and described them as "victims of circumstances". "I found some of them were limping. When asked, the fishermen told me that they were assaulted in jail with their hands tied. As a result, they have injuries below the waist and the legs... They were crying while talking to me," Banerjee said. The chief minister, who was in Sagar Island to oversee the preparations for the upcoming Ganga Sagar Mela, asked the district authorities to provide the fishermen with medical treatment. Banerjee handed over cheques of Rs 10,000 to each of them as a token of assistance to start life afresh. The family of another fisherman who died after jumping into the water to avoid arrest was also given a cheque of Rs 2 lakh. The chief minister announced a scheme under which two lakh fishermen of the state will get Rs 5,000 each for two months. A total of 95 Indian fishermen and crew members on board six fishing boats were detained by the Bangladesh government after they "mistakenly" went inside the waters of the neighbouring country in October and November last year. Most of these fishermen, who were from Kakdwip and Namkhana, were released earlier this week. The Indian Coast Guard handed over the fishermen to the district magistrate of South 24 Parganas near Sagar Island on Monday. "Their condition would bring tears to your eyes. They are victims of circumstances. They mistakenly crossed the borders and went into the water of the Bangladesh territory," she said. The CM said the fishermen were spotted with the help of a card given to them by the state government. The authorities can track a fisherman with that. "With the help of the administration, police and the local MLA, we understood that they were detained," she said. The Bengal CM cautioned the fishermen not to cross the international maritime boundary again. Entering the waters of another country happens mostly during storms, she said. The Bengal CM referred to an incident when a Bangladeshi trawler mistakenly crossed the border and came into the Indian territory a month ago when her government treated them well till they were released recently. The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) also handed over 90 Bangladeshi fishermen to the authorities of their country on Sunday. "We helped them so that our country and state are not given a bad name. We were in continuous touch with the Government of India. I want both countries to be in a cordial relationship of friendship," she said. Banerjee announced 'Samudra Sathi' project under which fishermen will get Rs 5,000 each for two months and two lakh fishermen will benefit from it. 'Matsajibi Bandhu' scheme will also be introduced under which the next of kin of a fisherman would be given a compensation of Rs 2 lakh after his death," she said. The chief minister, however, did not elaborate on any of the two schemes. While talking to PTI, one of the 95 fishermen said they had gone in search of hilsa, and after entering Bangladesh waters by mistake, were tortured in the neighbouring country. Several of us including me were beaten up. They hit me on the head and legs," said Ashis Biswas, who has been into fishing for 20 years. Another fisherman Samar Das echoed the same story and said he was happy to be back. "We pleaded to them saying that it (entering Bangladesh waters) was a mistake. They did not listen to us. They took our mobile phones, kept on beating and abusing us," Das said. MONTPELIER An independent representative's campaign for speaker of the Vermont House of Representatives is gaining more traction. "As Vermont's legislative session nears, 21 Democratic, Progressive, and independent lawmakers have pledged support for Rep. Laura Sibilia's candidacy to become Speaker of the Vermont House," Lucy Rogers, campaign chief, said in an announcement. "This movement signals a call for change in leadership following significant electoral shifts in November." The election for the speaker is scheduled for Wednesday, the opening day of the next legislative session. Democrat Rep. Jill Krowinski is seeking reelection. The announcement follows an article in VTDigger entitled, "A significant number of legislators tell VTDigger they back Laura Sibilias bid for speaker of the Vermont House." She would need at least 75 votes to win and 55 Republicans are entering the House this week, the outlet reported. "Our numbers tell us that if the Republicans join their Democratic, independent and Progressive colleagues who are voting for change, Im going to win," Sibilia said in a statement. VTDigger reported, "That so many members outside the Republican caucus plan to support Sibilias bid suggests her support is broader than has been previously reported and could potentially lead to a close outcome. It also underscores how the GOP caucus, even without a majority of House seats, could well determine the next speaker in what would be an early flex of its increased power." Sibilia lives in Dover and represents the Windham-2 district. She joined Legislature in 2014 after defeating incumbent John Moran for the seat. Sibilia upsets Moran in Windham-Bennington BRATTLEBORO -- A Windham County legislator was unseated in Tuesday's voting, as independent On Dec. 27, Sibilia officially notified the secretary of state of her candidacy for speaker of the House. With two candidates, the election is expected to be conducted by secret ballot. "I believe in a leadership style that prioritizes openness, collaboration, and respect," Sibilia said in a statement after filing the notice. "This campaign is about creating a culture in the House that is grounded in transparency, fairness and trust qualities that are essential for us to meet the moment and deliver results for Vermonters." Sibilia also expressed gratitude for the bipartisan support and advice she has received throughout her campaign, saying that she's "inspired by conversations with members from across the political spectrum." "Your insights have strengthened my commitment to building a legislature where every members expertise and talents are valued," she said. Her campaign emphasizes "transparency, collaboration, and accountability, with a focus on making progress addressing Vermonts most pressing issues," according to a news release. Dover's Sibilia announces run for speakership in Vermont House of Representatives DOVER One of Windham County's two independents will be asking her colleagues to select her In a recent newsletter, Sibilia said her nomination for speaker was debated in the House Democratic Caucus in December. She wasn't present but described appreciating "the courage and thoughtfulness of those who supported me." "Ultimately, the caucus chose not to nominate a non-Democrat by a vote of 60-18," she said. "I respect the Democratic Caucus decision but also see the debate as a sign that more legislators are open to the inclusive, coalition-driven leadership I am offering." Heading into the next legislative session, Sibilia said she's "continuing my work to bring people together and make progress for Vermont." Don't miss the big stories. Like us on Facebook. BRATTLEBORO An independent nutrition program is coming to Windham Southeast Supervisory Union schools. Last month, the WSESU Board approved a plan to transition schools to a self-operated program beginning next school year. An announcement from WSESU Food Program Coordinator Susan Grabowski called the move "groundbreaking." "This decision marks a pivotal step toward aligning our meal program with the values of our community and better serving our students," the announcement states. An ad-hoc committee formed in October to evaluate the current food service model. Fresh Picks Cafe is the contractor and Chris Faro, vice president of the company, has acknowledged failings that he blamed mainly on staffing challenges. "The committee identified several issues, including insufficient portions, inconsistent food quality and service, and lack of cultural inclusivity," the announcement states, noting that high staff turnover created additional challenges under the current model. "Through a detailed 15-page proposal, the committee outlined how transitioning to an independent nutrition program would improve food quality, provide culturally relevant meals, and better support student health, academic success and local economies." 'We have failed': Meal program suffers in Windham Southeast schools BRATTLEBORO Quality and service in the school meal program has not been up to snuff. About 65 percent of Vermont schools operate without food service management companies like Fresh Picks, according to the announcement. Such programs are said to be "more likely to achieve higher local purchasing rates and have stronger connections to farm to school initiatives, as well as boost student participation, support local farmers and ensure program sustainability." Putney Central School is cited as a case study. For the past decade, the WSESU school has operated its own independent nutrition program. Results in Putney have been "impressive," the announcement states. "With 16 to 20 percent of food sourced locally, 66 percent of meals prepared from scratch and exceptional staff retention, PCS is a shining example of what is possible," the announcement states. "Student lunch participation at PCS stands at 76 percent, far exceeding district averages." Other Windham Southeast Supervisory Union schools are in Brattleboro, Dummerston, Guilford and Vernon. The transition starts immediately, according to the announcement. This month and next, the goal is to hire a school nutrition director and create a transition plan with Fresh Picks. Program staff, including current Fresh Picks employees, will begin to be hired in April. Summer food service program plans will be finalized and menus will be developed around the same time. The launch is scheduled for June, starting with the summer food service program. "The transition plan addresses financial feasibility, staffing, and alignment with broader community school initiatives," the announcement states. "Grants, such as the Local Food Incentive, will support local purchasing, while plans are underway to transition many current [food service management company] employees into roles within the new independent program." The change, the announcement states, "represents a commitment to providing healthier, more nutritious, higher-quality meals, supporting local farmers, and fostering stronger school communities. The new program will align with WSESUs mission to prioritize student health, wellness, and equity while creating lasting positive impacts on education and local economies." Grabowski's plan received the School Board's blessing at its Dec. 11 meeting. "We can do better and the students deserve better," she told the board. WSESU Business Administrator Frank Rucker estimates the annual cost for food service will go from $2.4 million to $2.6 million. Initial transition costs of about $70,000 also are anticipated. Before hearing the proposal, the board received a progress report from Fresh Picks. Chris Faro, vice president of operations at Fresh Picks, said school cafeterias were fully staffed except for a new cashier position being created at Brattleboro Union High School. The new role also will involve making runs to other schools to ensure they're supplied with what they need. "With the staffing that we've just done for the hourly positions, we've made a great connection with the immigrant population here in Brattleboro," Faro said. "We currently have four Afghani immigrants on staff at the high school, and we're onboarding a fifth that will be working at Academy [School] ... This is probably the best diversity we've had on our staff here since about 2022/2023." Menus were expanded to include more vegetarian options and locally sourced food, Faro said. His hope also is to tie ethnic cuisine to the curriculum. Faro described food quality improving at schools. Farm-to-school initiatives ran into delays but a relationship has been developed to procure Vernon-based Miller Farm milk and Guilford-based Franklin Farm meat, he said. Students are receiving "insufficient food portions" and poor quality meals, BUHS School Nurse Rebecca Olmstead told the board. She stressed the importance of having food that's "safe, nutritious and also appetitizing so that the students eat." Lacking accurate carbohydrate count information on food in the cafeteria, Olmstead worries about students who rely on insulin. "Students with food allergies ... are unable to eat in the cafeteria as items are not clearly labelled," she said. "This has caused adverse effects on students with food sensitivities." Olmstead called Fresh Picks "no longer safe or beneficial ... to use." If the plan to go independent doesn't work out, Rucker said, "of course we would be looking to get back into a contract that we know has a proven track record of success." He and Superintendent Mark Speno endorsed the proposal. Now, its been 15 years. Most of the girls that are coming in here today dont know anything about Jessica, said Debbie Bolognani. But, she The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that around 300,000 women die during pregnancy each year. This means that over a 10-year period, we are facing three million deaths, says scientist Veronique Thouvenot, 67, originally from Concepcion, Chile. Thouvenot has dedicated her career to combating this global issue, which primarily impacts countries with extreme poverty. In 2012, the Chilean-French scientist spearheaded the development of the cellphone application Zero Mothers Die, which continues today to provide women, especially in Africa, with crucial information about pregnancy. It answers questions about what happens each week during pregnancy, as well as the development of the baby in its first months. It also alerts mothers to the signs they should watch for in case of complications and advises when to seek medical attention, explains Thouvenot in a video call from Lyon. The app offers simple advice, but it can save lives, she adds about the initiative, which has also been implemented in some areas of Peru and Brazil. Thouvenots concern for maternal and neonatal mortality traces back to her early years in Chile, where she spent the first 11 years of her life. During that time, she recalls a woman named Mercedes, her familys domestic worker. With Mercedes, she visited some of the poorest neighborhoods of the Chilean capital in the 1960s. On her days off, my nanny would visit her friends who lived in the slums of Santiago. Many times, my parents and I would accompany her, bringing clothes, food, and hygiene products. I was a child, but I understood the conversations of the adults, and I remember them talking about a woman who had died during pregnancy. I also witnessed sick children suffering from polio who were dying at the time. All of this created an early awareness in my life, says Thouvenot, who holds a degree in mathematics and is a public health specialist. She has also served as an advisor to the United Nations on health programs. The extreme poverty I saw as a child has always stayed with me, and it is exasperating that it still exists in the world, she says. In countries where the Zero Mothers Die app is used such as Ethiopia, Nigeria, and the Democratic Republic of Congo the main factors contributing to the deaths of mothers and children are infections, inadequate healthcare, poor prevention, lack of vaccines, discrimination, and violence, Thouvenot explains. The scientist also points out that, in many of these regions, the death of pregnant women is viewed as something that cannot be solved, but rather accepted. Thouvenot says that the majority of women seeking help through the app are very young. Some are between 13 and 14. They have little education, no information, and dont even understand whats happening to their bodies because no one has talked to them about it. But even though they are extremely poor, with no access to clean water and very little electricity, they all have cell phones and are very tech-savvy, she says. Also, in these communities, women talk a lot. So, its crucial that just one of them has a phone and downloads Zero Mothers Die, so that 15 or 20 others can also benefit from the information. She explains that once the app is downloaded, it can be used offline, and the information is available in nine dialects, tailored to local communities and their cultures. Thouvenot says that the majority of the women who seek help through the app are very young: Some of them are between 13 and 14 years old. They have no education, no information, they dont even know what is happening to their bodies because no one has talked to them about it. But even though they are very poor, even though they dont have clean water and very little electricity in their homes, they have a mobile phone and are very tech-savvy, she says. Also, in these communities, women talk a lot. So, it takes only one of them having a phone and downloading Zero Mothers Die for 15 or 20 others to also be informed. Thouvenot explains that once the app is downloaded, it can be used without an internet connection and that the information is available in nine dialects and adapted to the local communities and their culture. Thouvenot emphasizes that the success of Zero Mothers Die has made her view technology as a powerful tool to address the worlds pressing health challenges. Its an ally in reaching patients more quickly, to reach areas where there are no healthcare professionals or that do not have access to clinics and hospitals, she says, highlighting the potential of digital innovation to expand healthcare access. Reflecting on her mission, she adds that ensuring every human being in the world has access to quality healthcare is truly incredible because if youre healthy, you can achieve so much in life, like studying and working. She explains: Without health, you can accomplish very little, especially when you live in places of extreme poverty. It is especially important for women, because womens empowerment depends on having good health. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Russian forces have carried out more than 2,100 aerial strikes on Ukraine over the past week, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on March 9, as Russia has stepped up attacks on its neighbor and reported battlefield gains ahead of Kyiv's high-stakes talks with US representatives in Saudi Arabia. Ukraine Invasion: News & Analysis RFE/RL's Ukraine Live Briefing gives you the latest developments on Russia's invasion, Western military aid, the plight of civilians, and territorial control maps. For all of RFE/RL's coverage of the war, click here. It comes as US President Donald Trump questioned the long-term viability of Ukraine itself. When asked in a Fox Business TV interview whether he was worried that decreased US support for Ukraine could endanger that country's survival, he responded: "Well, it may not survive anyway." "But, you know, we have some weaknesses with Russia -- you know, it takes two," Trump added. Zelenskyy said in a social media post that Russian forces this week deployed 1,200 guided aerial bombs, nearly 870 attack drones, and more than 80 missiles of various types. The Russian Defense Ministry, meanwhile, announced the recapture of several villages and towns on March 9 in its Kursk region -- as well as new settlements in eastern Ukraine -- with unconfirmed reports that thousands of Ukrainian troops risk being encircled by Russian forces. It comes a day after Russian air strikes killed at least 50 people in the eastern Donetsk region, according to local officials, with at least 11 deaths reported in the city of Dobropillya. "Such strikes show that Russia's goals are unchanged," Zelenskyy wrote on social media late on March 8. "Therefore, it is very important to continue to do everything to protect life, strengthen our air defense, and increase sanctions against Russia. The series of strikes and battlefield pressure represent another setback for Kyiv ahead of crucial talks with the United States next week in Saudi Arabia, where Ukrainian officials will meet with their US counterparts for negotiations around how to end the three-year war. The Institute For The Study of War, a Washington-based think tank that tracks battlefield developments, said Russian forces have "intensified their multidirectional campaign to eliminate the remaining Ukrainian salient in Kursk" in the last two days. According to DeepState, an open-source military tracker linked to the Ukrainian Army, the Russian moves followed a "breach" in Ukrainian defense lines near the town of Sudzha, which remains under Kyiv's control but is facing growing pressure from Russian units. Pro-Russian war bloggers who closely track frontline developments in the war also reported that Russian special forces walked inside a gas pipeline to strike Ukrainian units from the rear in Kursk late on March 8 to gain a foothold outside of Sudzha. According to the reports, the pipeline was used to surprise Ukrainian units and cut off their supply lines as the Kremlin pours more manpower into kicking Kyiv out of Russian territory. RFE/RL was not able to independently verify the accounts, but Ukrainian officials confirmed that Russian "sabotage and assault groups" used the pipeline to get access to Sudzha. "At present, Russian special forces are being detected, blocked, and destroyed. The enemy's losses in Sudzha are very high," Ukraine's General Staff said in a Telegram post on March 8. Ukraine aimed to hit back by launching a drone overnight at an industrial facility in the Russian region of Chuvashia, some 1,300 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. The strike is one of the deepest yet into Russian territory by a Ukrainian drone, and it hit its target but caused no casualties, according to Russian authorities. Ousting Ukrainian forces from Kursk with the talks in Saudi Arabia approaching looks to be part of Moscow's strategy. In August 2024, thousands of Ukrainian soldiers seized roughly 1,300 square kilometers of Russia's western Kursk region, a move which Kyiv later characterized as an attempt to gain a bargaining chip for future negotiations and draw Russian troops away from the front line in eastern Ukraine. Russian forces have managed to claw back large chunks of territory in Kursk, but Ukraine has retained a foothold that now risks being shrunk down further leading into the key talks. Ukraine 'Fully Committed' To US Talks With his attention fixed on the upcoming talks, Zelenskyy said Ukraine is "fully committed" to having a constructive dialogue with US representatives in Saudi Arabia next week over a potential peace settlement. "Ukraine has been seeking peace from the very first second of this war. Realistic proposals are on the table. The key is to move quickly and effectively," he posted on X. The Ukrainian president said he will travel to Saudi Arabia and meet with Saudi Prince Muhammad bin Salman on March 10. Afterward, a delegation of Ukrainian diplomatic and military representatives will stay for a March 11 meeting with a US negotiating team. "On our side, we are fully committed to constructive dialogue, and we hope to discuss and agree on the necessary decisions and steps," Zelenskyy said. Zelenskyy will not be part of the US-Ukraine talks, which will instead be done by a delegation including Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha, Zelenskyy's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. They will meet with a US delegation that will reportedly include Trump's envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and national-security adviser Mike Waltz. Rubio departed for Saudi Arabia late on March 9, the State Department said. In remarks late on March 9, Trump told reporters he expects results from the Saudi talks. "We're going to make a lot of progress, I believe, this week," Trump said. The upcoming talks in Saudi Arabia are the culmination of weeks of tough diplomacy and negotiations spearheaded by Washington since it met with a Russian delegation in Riyadh in February. US-Ukraine ties have since frayed, with tensions culminating in an Oval Office argument in late February between Zelenskyy, Trump, and US Vice President JD Vance that saw the Ukrainian president leave the White House without signing a crucial minerals deal with Washington. Since then, the Trump administration has paused military shipments and intelligence sharing with Ukraine. The full extent of the intelligence cutoff is unclear, but it has sparked fears that it could lead to Ukrainian setbacks on the front lines as Russia looks to press for the advantage. In his March 9 remarks to reporters, Trump said he believed Ukraine would eventually sign a minerals deal with the United States. But -- amid reports he would want even more actions out of Kyiv -- Trump added that "I want them to want peace. They haven't shown it to the extent they should." European countries like Britain and France have stepped up to provide more intelligence sharing with Ukraine but are reportedly still not able to replace the full scope of US capabilities. Waltz suggested on March 5 that Trump may lift the pause on military aid once peace negotiations are arranged and confidence-building measures take place. When asked on March 9 whether he would end the suspension of intelligence-sharing with Kyiv, Trump said, without elaborating, that "we just about have. We just about have." In the days leading up to the talks, Trump offered criticism of Moscow's increased attacks on Ukraine in the lead up to talks and mentioned potential sanctions against the Kremlin. But he also said Russian President Vladimir Putin was doing what anybody would do" and he told reporters in the Oval Office on March 7 that he finds it "easier" to work with Russia than Ukraine and that Putin "wants to end the war." Welcome back to the China In Eurasia briefing, an RFE/RL newsletter tracking China's resurgent influence from Eastern Europe to Central Asia. I'm RFE/RL correspondent Reid Standish and here's what I'm following right now. A Warning From The Baltics Former Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis offered a clear warning for those who say that China is able to mediate an end to the war in Ukraine. Finding Perspective: Speaking to the French international affairs outlet Geopolitique.eu, Landsbergis stamped down the idea. China is waiting for a moment of weakness to step in and offer solutions and I fear that some in Europe would accept this offer because its a cheap alternative to us stepping up, in the same way that you buy a Chinese car because its cheaper. The same goes for their peace proposals. Landsbergis was commenting on a recent interview with outgoing U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and The New York Times, where Blinken said that one of the reasons that Moscow had not escalated into a nuclear war in Ukraine was because of China. If you follow that line of reasoning, it means that China has become a protector of Europe. That would be the beginning of a new paradigm, Landsbergis said. If we accept that China, which in my view supports Russia and is therefore an adversary of the countries supporting Ukraine, is now the guarantor of nuclear deterrence on our continent, it would be a dangerous mistake and a failure. Why It Matters: Landsbergiss warning comes as U.S. President-elect Donald Trump takes office and Europe anxiously looks at a very different geopolitical reality. Trumps tariff threats and less traditional approach to Washingtons relationship with Europe is a source of consternation in European capitals and there is talk in some corners about having a more amenable position toward Beijing to balance the Trump administration. On January 14, Chinese leader Xi Jinping spoke with European Council President Antonio Costa to begin what many analysts believe will be a charm offensive from Beijing toward the continent. But while Trump may have a rockier relationship with Brussels and various capitals than his predecessor, Beijing is also facing a different playing field than when U.S. President Joe Biden took office. Chinas support for Russia amid the war in Ukraine has strained ties with Europe, and Brussels is taking aim at Chinese companies in some sectors, a trend that looks set to continue. EU High Representative Kaja Kallas has also voiced strong criticism of China, especially for its stance around the war in Ukraine and its long-term repercussions. Landsbergis shared similar sentiments, saying that Ukraine is central to what will happen in the future between China and Taiwan. I mentioned earlier that [Russian President Vladimir] Putin has managed to change the nuclear doctrine by getting us to accept, at least for now, that resisting an attack is a form of escalation and therefore a nuclear strike is justified. One can imagine a situation where China imposes a blockade, even a partial one, on Taiwan and they resist and we try to lift it, then China could use the Russian playbook, he said. I dont think we collectively understand how reckless it is. Three more stories from Eurasia 1. The Taliban Courts Chinese Capital My Afghan colleagues at RFE/RL's Radio Azadi and I reported about a new road built by the Taliban in northeast Afghanistan that the hardline group is hoping can better connect the country to neighboring China. The Details: The first section of the road in the Wakhan Corridor was completed a year ago in early 2024, and the Taliban is looking to build out the connections further to one day open up more trade with China. The road link is part of a series of announcements and groundbreaking ceremonies in 2024 -- from oil deals to mining rights -- that the Taliban are hoping will keep moving ahead in the coming year. But the main questions remain over whether the militants can finally calm China's long-standing security concerns. Haiyun Ma, an associate professor at Frostburg University, told me that, despite the lofty deals, Chinese investment is still not flowing in Afghanistan and that there are growing frustrations under the surface between Beijing and the Taliban. Ma says that the announcement in 2024 helps bring prestige and legitimacy to the Taliban as it adapts to governing and that it offers a low-risk, low-commitment way for Beijing to signal long-term intent toward the country. But he adds that China is in no hurry to have a footprint in Afghanistan. China is yet to set up a border crossing in the area where the Wakhan road leads and despite all the resource deals, Beijing has plenty of already developed alternatives elsewhere in the world to help meet its domestic needs. 2. Trump, Greenland, China, And The Arctic Incoming U.S. President Donald Trump has once again kicked up a storm by refusing to rule out the use of force to gain control of Greenland. As my colleague Todd Prince writes, Trumps pursuit shines a light on the complicated national-security picture in the Arctic between the United States, China, Russia, and other players. What You Need To Know: While China is not an Arctic nation, it is seeking to be a major player in the region. In recent years, Beijing has sought to buy ports, other infrastructure, and mining rights on Greenland though it has not been successful. Todd writes that the United States suspected China's real interest in those projects was to place dual-use sensors and radars in the Arctic Circle to help control their military satellites and gather intelligence on U.S. space-based operations in the region. 3. U.S. Energy Sanctions Hurt Chinese, Indian Purchases Of Russian Oil Chinese and Indian refiners are looking for new fuel supplies as they adapt to hard-hitting new U.S. sanctions on Russian oil producers and tankers. What It Means: Many of the newly sanctioned tankers brought oil to China and India, and both Bloomberg and Reuters reported that the sanctions have led to a jump in prices and driven Chinese refiners back to sellers of oil that is not restricted. The sanctions were announced on January 10 and they target Gazprom Neft and Surgutneftegas, two of Russia's five largest largest oil producers, as well as 183 vessels transporting Russian oil and oil products to foreign markets. The Biden administration also sanctioned opaque traders of Russian oil, more than 30 Russia-based oil-field service providers, and more than a dozen leading Russian energy officials and executives. The Chinese refiner Yulong Petrochemical has previously bought Russian crude, but, according to industry data, it purchased 4 million barrels of crude from the United Arab Emirates following the sanctions. After the sanctions announcement, Unipec, a subsidiary of Chinas state-owned energy giant Sinopec, booked four large carriers of crude from the Middle East which the data intelligence firm Kpler said could carry a total of up to 2 million barrels. Across The Supercontinent Kyivs China Consultations: Ukraines Foreign Ministry told RFE/RLs Ukrainian Service that 2024 was a year of developing political dialogue in Beijing, pointing to the extensive high-level talks with their counterparts in the Chinese Foreign Ministry. Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhiy Tykhyi added that Kyiv considers China one of the countries that can and does have influence on the Russian Federation. And we will continue to maintain this contact with the Chinese side. Parting Shots: In a speech at the State Department on January 13 summing up his administrations record, Biden said the United States has widened its lead over competitors like Russia and China. "Our adversaries are weaker than they were when we came into this job four years ago. Let's consider Russia. Putin invaded Ukraine. He thought he'd conquer Kyiv in a matter of days. But the truth is, since that war began, I'm the only one that stood in the center of Kyiv, not him," Biden said, referring to his visit to the embattled nation last year. The China Connection: As Russian forces have intensified their advances in eastern Ukraine in recent weeks, they're being helped by a new tool on the battlefield: drones that fly with the use of fiber-optic cables, RFE/RLs Ukrainian Service and I reported. Some Ukrainian experts have said that the drone models used by Russia are very similar to Chinas commercially available Skywalker drone. There are also growing reports in Ukrainian media of high-quantity orders being placed at Chinese factories by Russian companies for large spools of fiber-optic cables. One Thing To Watch Trade between China and Russia reached a record high in 2024, according to official data released on January 13 by Chinas General Administration of Customs. The figures show how Beijing and Moscows efforts to strengthen their relationship are paying off in the face of tough Western economic sanctions on Russia. While the 2024 trade data reached an all-time high, the year-on-year growth rate slowed significantly compared to the 26.3 percent surge seen in 2023. 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 other Wednesday. Syria is breathing something resembling freedom barely a month after the fall of Bashar al-Assad. Statues and symbols of the deposed regime have been torn down, prison doors have been opened, and images have emerged depicting the horror of torture, executions and mass graves. It is a new beginning for the martyred country after a 13-year war and a cruel family dictatorship lasting half a century. However, there is a very uncertain political horizon ahead for a country in the middle of an unstable region torn apart by war. As the new unofficial head of state, Ahmed al-Shara known as Abu Mohammed al-Julani during the war the head of the jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has taken up residence in the palaces where the dictator once lived, but he neither controls the territory nor technically governs the state. Thanks to the moderation shown in his aims and gestures, the U.S. has withdrawn the $10 million bounty on his head to eliminate this former jihadist. Diplomats from around the world are returning to Damascus, notably those from the European Union, to outline the conditions for the financial and diplomatic aid that must follow political normalization. The immediate objective of the new government is to get international sanctions lifted and HTS, the currently ruling party, off the list of terrorist organizations. Its track record is not the best for such steps to take place without prior guarantees, especially if there is no tangible progress in social and political life. It is essential that the new authority guarantee respect for all citizens, regardless of their sex, religion or ethnicity, including the Alawite ethnicity, to which the Assads belong. The EU must not accept a regime that discriminates against women, nor a justice system guided by Sharia law in the style of the Afghan Taliban or Arab Wahhabism. Peace is also essential. The war is not over yet: clashes between Kurdish and Turkish forces are recurring, the Islamic State is present in the territory, there are skirmishes with remnants of the Assad army on the border with Lebanon, and Israel persists in its bombings. Turkey and Israel have the power to facilitate Damascus control of the territory, although it is to be feared that the priority of both countries, like that of Saudi Arabia, is not Syrias stability but their own influence. A definitive exit by Russia and the disappearance of any support for Iran would be in everyones interest. In this whole scenario, the actor with the most influence on the new Syrian authority is Turkey, the main supporter of the rebels. Ankara is emerging as a privileged interlocutor to influence what happens from now on in Damascus, and it is to be expected that it will use this diplomatic trump card in its dealings with Europe and the U.S. The tasks facing the Syrians are immense. They must build a new army after the dissolution of the guerrillas, control the territory and borders, find and judge those responsible for the atrocities of the dictatorship, restore normality and economic life, and begin a constituent process. At the moment, the timetable suggested by Al Shara, which has announced a margin of two or three years for a new Constitution and four for the first elections, does not seem to be the best. It is advisable for the recently won fragile freedom to be consolidated and to acquire constitutional status as soon as possible, duly endorsed by free and plural elections, before the jihadist group that has taken power settles into a new Islamist dictatorship. By Neil Lancefield, PA Transport Correspondent Dublin and Galways roads were the among most congested in Europe last year, according to new analysis. Transport analytics company Inrix said drivers in Dublin spent 81 hours sitting in traffic in 2024, a 13 per cent increase from the previous year. Galway is the second worst Irish city for traffic, with 65 hours of delays per driver, ahead of Cork in third spot (51 hours). London had the most clogged-up roads in Europe in 2024 with 101 hours of delays per driver, followed by Paris (97 hours). Dublin was ranked the 15th most congested city in the world, with Istanbul in first place. The ranking is based on the length of delays, weighted by the size of each citys population. Inrix said it used diverse sources to produce its analysis, including from phones and vehicles. Sean McCarthaigh Irish teenagers whose friends use cannabis are 10 times more likely to consume the drug themselves, according to the findings of new research. The study by researchers found that 7.3 per cent of students aged 15-16 had used cannabis within the previous 30 days with no significant difference in use of the drug between males and females. It also highlighted how teenagers who felt it was necessary to use cannabis to fit in with their friends were almost twice as likely to use the drug compared to those who did not feel peer pressure to use cannabis. Teenagers who believed their parents would be ambivalent towards their use of cannabis were also almost four times more likely to be current users of the drug than those students who thought their parents were strongly against cannabis use. The findings are based on the responses by over 4,400 students in fourth and fifth year to a questionnaire issued as part of the Planet Youth survey carried out in late 2021. The respondents were based across 40 schools in north Dublin, Cavan and Monaghan. The study highlighted how current cannabis users among such an age group were significantly more likely to also be consuming alcohol, smoking or vaping. It also reveals that low parental supervision was significantly associated with higher odds of current cannabis use. The authors of the study, whose findings are published in the Irish Journal of Psychological Medicine, said its rationale was to examine individual, familial, peer, school and community factors associated with cannabis use by adolescents in Ireland in order to provide measures for prevention and early intervention. They claimed several of the risk factors identified by the research have the potential to be modified through drug prevention strategies. The researchers noted that earlier studies had found that long-term use of cannabis has the potential to lead to addiction with one in three regular adolescent users becoming addicted to the drug, while also having the potential to exacerbate mental health issues such as psychosis. The study observed that cannabis-related psychiatric admissions for people aged 15-34 in the Republic rose by 140 per cent between 2011 and 2017 and have remained at the same elevated level ever since. Despite the evidence of increased health risks associated with cannabis use, the study said adolescents continue to use cannabis for a number of various factors including boredom relief, appetite increase, sleep improvements and increased social opportunities. Other factors can include low self-esteem and insecurity or family problems. Asked to assess their own mental health, almost three-quarters of the teenagers (72.4 per cent) who do not use cannabis said it was good or OK compared to 54.6 per cent among cannabis users. In contrast, 45.0 per cent of cannabis users assessed their mental health as bad or very bad compared to 27.1 per cent of those who do not use the drug. Similarly, only 16.6 per cent of cannabis users perceived the drug to be harmful, while 67.2 per cent of non-users surveyed believed it could have a negative impact on their health. Among cannabis users, 90.4 per cent reported that their friends also use the drug compared to 29.3 per cent of students who do not use it. One of the reports main authors, Teresa ODowd, said they believed it was the first study in an Irish setting which found no significant difference in cannabis use between males and females. Dr ODowd, a specialist in public health medicine with HSE North West, said the lack of association between gender and cannabis use was a notable finding as historically male gender had been noted as a risk factor for use of the drug. She said the finding that the odds of cannabis use were higher for those who also consume alcohol, smoke and use e-cigarettes was in keeping with other research. The fact that adolescents are likely to engage in polysubstance use is significant and needs to be factored into any interventions targeting cannabis prevention among adolescents in Ireland, said Dr ODowd. The study also claimed there has been a cultural shift both nationally and internationally over the past decade towards legalising cannabis. Dr ODowd said it had led to an attitude among many adolescents and adults that cannabis is a relatively harmless drug. This shift in perception regarding cannabis-related harm may impact Irish adolescents decision to use cannabis, as suggested by our findings, she added. The authors of the study said its findings had demonstrated the importance of parental attitudes to cannabis and claimed many factors including parental supervision and perception that parents are against cannabis use were modifiable. They called for the public health community and policymakers to act to ensure greater awareness of cannabis harms among both teenagers and their parents. A tailored public health messaging campaign addressing the known harms and complications of cannabis use in young people, is urgently required, they added. Five primary schools took part in the recent Roscommon Mini Motion Pictures Film Festival at Roscommon Arts Centre. Curraghboy NS took part in the competition alongside Scoil Bhride, Mountrath (Laois), Boher NS (Offaly), Granard NS (Longford) and Lanesborough Primary School (Longford). There was a prize of 30 Samsung tablets and a digital e-flipboard for the winning school and 10 tablets for the runners-up. Samsung goodie bags were also provided for every pupil. Each schools film was screened in front of judges on the day, who had a very tough decision choosing from the five schools. Microbit Madness was Curraghboys film, which told the story of two time-travelling children, and incorporated the use of programming and STEM during production. Mountrath scooped the second place prize for their film, Grannys Revenge and the winning school Boher NS for Down with that sort of thing, which retold the true story of the robbery of the Shrine of St. Manchan. The film festival was supported by Roscommon County Council Creative Schools, the Creative Ireland Programme, Samsung, transACT Technology Solutions and Shuttermaniac Productions. The technology that pupils used for filming and editing was provided in what Samsung B2B National Account Manager Ireland, Darran Shaw, called a safe and sustainable way. With our technologies, we went to the Department of Education and we looked for some legacy devices that they were going to bring to an end of life and we looked to upscale them. We put them into what's called our Knox programme and our Knox programme was able to secure them and put an environment around them just to turn them into video cameras so that they were safe and secure to use. Commenting on the high standard of films on display, Creative Schools Associate Aideen McHugh said: Today is proof of what can happen when you open the floor to young people and allow them the opportunity to express your creative thinking, whatever way you choose. She added: To be here today, celebrating the young creatives, it's an honour. You have all shown your huge ability and the value in what you choose to do and how you choose to say it and share it with us. Creative Director for the competition was Lee Williamson from Shuttermaniac Productions. In his role, he assisted the schools using his expertise and equipment from his production company. He also praised the pupils after working alongside them for the last few months. Im incredibly proud of everyone involved, from the filmmakers to the organisers, and I look forward to seeing where this journey takes them. The future of storytelling is bright, and today, we all got a glimpse of it." Seeing the smiles, the applause, and the sheer joy of being part of something bigger reminded me why events like these are so vital. Theyre not just screeningstheyre launching pads for dreams. Schools can register their interest in any potential future film festivals by emailing lee@shuttermaniac.com. Akal Takht Jathedar Urges Central Government to Address Farmers Demands The Jathedars statement comes as a strong endorsement of the farmers cause. Akal Takht Jathedar on Farmers Protest and Jagjit Singh Dallewal Latest News: Giani Raghbir Singh, Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, has made a heartfelt appeal to the central government, urging them to address the concerns of farmers currently protesting in the bitter cold. Speaking about the ongoing agitation led by farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh said, The central government must listen to the farmers demands. It is disheartening to see Jagjit Singh Dallewal and other farmers sitting on a dharna in such harsh weather conditions. Their struggle represents the voice of the common man and the backbone of our nation. Advertisement The farmers, protesting under freezing temperatures, have been demanding resolution of longstanding issues, including fair prices for crops, loan waivers, and other systemic reforms. The Jathedars statement comes as a strong endorsement of the farmers cause and highlights the importance of dialogue to resolve the impasse. As the spiritual head of Sikhisms highest temporal authority, Akal Takht Jathedars words carry significant influence, especially in Punjab, where a majority of the farming community belongs to the Sikh faith. (For more news apart from Akal Takht Jathedar on Farmers Protest and Jagjit Singh Dallewal Latest News, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Punjab Govt Active for Welfare of Industrialists; Investors Encouraging & People Getting Employment Investment Worth Rs 89 Thousand Crore Has Been Received in 32 Months Chandigarh: The Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has been largely successful in its efforts to bring industrialists and investors to the state. The Bhagwant Singh Mann government has made big decisions for investors in the state, for the implementation of which coordination between the concerned departments is very important. For this purpose, the government has ordered the officials to create a comfortable and conducive environment for investors in the state, the impact of which is clearly visible. With this investment, employment is also increasing rapidly. In the last 32 months, Invest Punjab has received more than 5,265 investments worth an estimated Rs 89,000 crore. This investment is expected to create 3,87,806 jobs in the state. Advertisement This investment has been made in several sectors, including agriculture and food processing, manufacturing, automotive and auto components, chemicals and petrochemicals, textiles, and infrastructure. Investment in Punjab is coming from several countries and regions, including Switzerland, the USA, Japan, and Germany. Among the five districts of Punjab that have received the most investment, SAS Nagar is at the forefront, having received an investment of Rs 24,930 crore. After this, Ludhiana is in second place, with an investment of Rs 18,860 crore. Amritsar is in third place, having received an investment of Rs 5,805 crore. After this, Fatehgarh Sahib received an investment of Rs 4,981 crore. The sectors that received the highest investment include: - The proposed investment in housing construction and infrastructure is Rs 11,853 crore, which will create 1.22 lakh jobs. - The construction sector has attracted an investment of Rs 5,981 crore and created 39,952 jobs. - The steel sector has attracted an investment of Rs 3,889 crore, which has created 9,257 jobs. - Textiles, technical textiles, and textiles have attracted an investment of Rs 3,305 crore and created 13,753 jobs. - The agriculture, food processing, and beverages sector has attracted an investment of Rs 2,854 crore and created 16,638 jobs. - Rs 2,157 crore has been invested in healthcare, and 4,510 jobs have been created. Advertisement Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this is just the beginning, and more investment will come to Punjab. The state's 'Invest Punjab' portal is ranked first among 28 states for its performance, in which about 58,000 new small and medium enterprises have been registered, setting a record in itself. The entire team of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann goes to the people and listens to their problems through the 'Sarkar Aapre Duar' scheme, and the same policy is being implemented for industries as well, under which industrialists will not need to come to government offices with their problems, but the government itself will go to them and solve the problems of industrialists. The companies that are investing in Punjab include the following major companies: Advertisement - Tata Steel (Fortune 500) has invested Rs 2,600 crore in the secondary steel sector in Ludhiana. - Sanatan Polikot has invested Rs 1,600 crore in the man-made fibre sector in Fatehgarh Sahib. - Nabha Power (L&T) is investing Rs 641 crore in the power sector in Patiala. - Topan (Japan) SBS Shahar has invested Rs 548 crore in the packaging sector. - Nestle has invested Rs 423 crore in the food processing sector in Moga. - Vardhman Special Steels (Aichi Steel, Japan) has invested Rs 342 crore in the hybrid steel sector in Ludhiana. - Rs 338 crore has been invested in the auto and auto components sector in Fredenburg, Rupnagar. - Bebo Technology SAS has invested Rs 300 crore in the IT sector in the city. - HUL (UK) has invested Rs 281 crore in Patiala, and Cargill India (USA), Fatehgarh Sahib, has invested Rs 160 crore. Due to the efforts of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the famous company BMW is now investing in Punjab. A plant to manufacture parts of BMW company vehicles is going to be set up in Punjab, which will provide employment to thousands of youth. Earlier, a big Canadian company, Nebula Group, was encouraged to invest, giving a big boost to the investment in the state. Not only this, Sun Pharma, JSW Steels, RPG Group, and other companies are soon going to expand their footprint in Punjab. Leading tractor manufacturer Sonalika Tractors had also announced an investment of Rs 1,300 crore to set up two new facilities in Hoshiarpur, Punjaba tractor assembly plant and a high-pressure foundry plant. Advertisement Earlier, Tata Steel had announced an investment of Rs 2,600 crore in Ludhiana. All the permissions for this steel plant have been issued, and now only the construction work of the plant is going on. It is scheduled to be completed by the year 2025. HMPV Virus Detected in India: Two Cases Reported in Bengaluru, Says ICMR The first case is a three-month-old female infant, while the second is an eight-month-old male infant. China's HMPV Virus Detected in India Latest News Today: Two cases of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) have been detected in Karnataka, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) confirmed. Both cases were identified at Bengalurus Baptist Hospital and involve infants. The first case is a three-month-old female infant, while the second is an eight-month-old male infant. Advertisement "These cases were identified as part of routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens, under ICMR's ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses across India," stated the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Government Monitoring Situation Closely The Union Health Ministry assured the public that India is well-prepared to manage respiratory illnesses, with no unusual surge in cases reported so far. A senior health ministry official said, "We are closely monitoring the situation through all available channels and have requested the World Health Organization (WHO) for timely updates regarding the global scenario." Advertisement The ministry also noted that the ongoing flu season is contributing to a rise in respiratory illnesses worldwide. "Reports suggest that the current surge is primarily caused by influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)the usual seasonal pathogens," a statement read. What Is HMPV? Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus causing symptoms similar to the common cold. It primarily affects children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Studies show that most cases are mild, and many individuals contract the virus before the age of five. Transmission and Symptoms According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HMPV spreads easily from person to person or via contaminated surfaces. Discovered in 2001, it is now recognized as a significant cause of both upper and lower respiratory tract infections. Advertisement Common symptoms include: Cough Fever Nasal congestion Shortness of breath The health ministry has urged the public to practice hygiene measures, such as regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with individuals displaying cold-like symptoms, to prevent the spread of HMPV and other respiratory viruses. (For more news apart from China's HMPV Virus Detected in India Latest News Today, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) The mahogany boxes in which the votes will be transported are ready, and security measures have been reinforced. Congress is set to meet on Monday to certify Donald Trumps victory in the presidential election of November 5. The session will be chaired by his rival at the polls, Kamala Harris, in a bitter blow for someone who has kept a very low profile since her defeat. The session comes on the fourth anniversary of the Capitol riot, when Trump supporters tried to prevent Joe Biden from being certified as the winner. Trump continues to insist that his vice president, Mike Pence, could have legally stopped the certification in 2020, as he said this past Saturday at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach (Florida). Formally, Trump has not yet been elected president. Although he is already being described as the president-elect, that will actually happen on Monday. According to the law, the counting of the Electoral College votes and the certification of the result takes place on January 6. After that, Trump will be inaugurated on January 20, as established by the Constitution. Trump won the election with 77.3 million votes, 49.9% of the total, compared to Harris, who got 75 million, 48.4%. Although in terms of the popular vote it was the closest result since the 2000 election, the Republican won in the seven most disputed states and thus secured 312 Electoral College votes, compared to the Democrat's 226. Trump won three million more votes than in 2020, but still fell some four million votes short of the record support achieved by Joe Biden in that election. The joint session of the Senate and the House of Representatives in which the election will be certified has traditionally been a mere formality. However, four years ago, Trump refused to acknowledge his electoral defeat and pressured his then vice president, Mike Pence, to alter the result. The Republicans devised a plan to change the popular will. The idea was to submit parallel lists of voters from the seven states where Biden had won by a narrower margin so that Pence would say that, due to the dispute, there were no valid votes cast from those states. The vice president would then simply count the rest (where Trump had 232 votes and Biden, 222) and declare Trump president. This plan is attributed to John Eastman, Trumps lawyer, who has been pursued by the courts for his attempts to steal the 2020 election. This past Saturday, with Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni as an illustrious guest, Trump paid tribute to Eastman at his Mar-a-Lago mansion by screening a documentary arguing that the accusations against him are unfair. Presenting the documentary The Eastman Dilemma: Lawfare of Justice, Trump insisted that the plan was viable: Im a big fan of John Eastman, MSNBC reported Trump as saying. Yknow, he was right. He happened to be right. Thats why they changed the law and nobody wants to talk about that...They said hes not allowed to do it, hes not allowed to do it, and they convinced him hes not allowed to do it our vice president then right after the election they changed the law so he cant do it. Trump supporters who stormed the Capitol four years ago did so with Hang Mike Pence as their rallying cry, incited by the president himself. Following the assault, which was contained by law enforcement, the session resumed. Pence remained faithful to his constitutional duties and certified Bidens victory that same day. But Congress did indeed tighten the rules after that attack on the foundations of democracy. The new wording of the Electoral Count Act, passed in 2022, more explicitly defines the role of the vice president and makes it clear that he has no power to determine the results on January 6. Trump and his allies have sought to rewrite the history of what happened at the Capitol, falsely portraying it as a peaceful protest and spreading conspiracy theories that leftist infiltrators were the perpetrators of the violence. The president-elect has promised mass pardons on his first day in office for those prosecuted and convicted in connection with the events of that day, although the extent of these pardons remains to be seen. The Capitol, with preparations for Trump's inauguration on January 20. Fabrizio Bensch (REUTERS) Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Is India heading towards another full lockdown due to HMPV virus threat? No Full Lockdown in India Amid HMPV Virus Concerns, Say Health Officials India Lockdown as HMPV Virus Concern Looms Large Latest News Today: As reports of a Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China spark global health concerns, questions have arisen about whether India might face another full lockdown to prevent the viruss spread. However, health officials have dismissed the likelihood of such drastic measures, urging the public to stay calm. Global Concern Over HMPV Outbreak HMPV, a respiratory virus first identified in 2001, is reportedly spreading rapidly across several Chinese provinces. The virus belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, which includes respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). While it causes symptoms similar to the common cold in most individuals, it can lead to severe respiratory complications, particularly in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Advertisement Media reports from China describe hospitals overwhelmed with patients seeking oxygen support and ICU beds. However, health experts emphasize that HMPV has been circulating globally for decades and does not pose a threat comparable to the COVID-19 pandemic. Indias Response to HMPV In response to concerns about HMPV, Dr. Atul Goel, an official from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), addressed the media, stating, Metapneumovirus is like any other respiratory virus that causes the common cold. In vulnerable populations like the elderly and young children, it can cause flu-like symptoms, but there is no need to panic. Officials clarified that India is not planning a nationwide lockdown due to HMPV, emphasizing that current surveillance systems have not detected any unusual surge in respiratory illnesses linked to the virus. Advertisement What Is HMPV? According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HMPV is a respiratory virus that can cause upper and lower respiratory infections. While most cases are mild, the virus can lead to complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia in vulnerable groups. Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV. Management primarily involves symptom relief and supportive care, including hydration and oxygen therapy for severe cases. Lessons from COVID-19 The HMPV outbreak in China has evoked memories of the COVID-19 pandemic, which originated in Wuhan in 2019 and caused a global health crisis. However, health experts have stressed that HMPVs transmission rates and severity are not comparable to those of SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind COVID-19. Advertisement Stay Vigilant, Not Fearful The Union Health Ministry continues to monitor the situation and has advised citizens to maintain good respiratory hygiene, including regular handwashing and wearing masks in crowded places. Officials have urged against panic and stressed the importance of relying on credible sources for updates. For now, India remains on alert but far from the possibility of another nationwide lockdown. (For more news apart from India Lockdown as HMPV Virus Concern Looms Large Latest News Today, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Bhagwant Singh Mann Government on a Mission to Deliver Clean Drinking Water to Every Household Water Supply and Sewerage Projects Progressing Across Punjab Chandigarh: The Punjab government, under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to ensuring clean and safe drinking water for every household in the state. In line with this mission, the Water Supply and Sanitation Department is implementing numerous projects to provide uninterrupted access to potable water, particularly in rural areas. Transforming Water Supply Infrastructure Efforts are underway in 11,467 Gram Panchayats across 153 blocks, with 9,492 water supply and sanitation schemes currently operational. Additionally, 469 schemes funded under NABARD (22 to 29) have been implemented in 700 villages. A further proposal worth Rs 160 crore under NABARD 30 has been submitted to the Finance Department for approval. Advertisement Recently, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann inaugurated water supply and sewerage projects worth Rs 119.16 crore in Abohar, benefiting over 1.5 lakh residents. This includes an automated water supply project with a capacity of 3.50 MGD, which ensures the delivery of canal water to households. In the Sunam Udham Singh Wala area, projects worth Rs 4.21 crore have been completed in three villages, supplying clean drinking water to 7,218 villagers through the installation of water tanks, tubewells, solar systems, and a 29-km pipeline. Major Approvals and Upcoming Projects The government has also sanctioned Rs 25.61 crore for water supply projects in 37 villages of Sangrur district, benefiting 87,053 residents. Another Rs 28.32 crore is earmarked for projects in 24 villages of the same district. In Phagwara, a Rs 4.35 crore water supply project is under development, aiming to provide clean drinking water to over 8,000 people by May 2025. Advertisement By 2024-25, 15 major multi-village surface water supply projects worth approximately Rs 2,200 crore are expected to be completed. These projects will ensure uninterrupted water supply to over 1,700 villages across Punjab. Addressing Water Quality Challenges To tackle water quality issues, 685 arsenic and iron removal plants have been installed across various districts, with technical assistance from IIT Madras. In border villages, household purifiers and community water treatment plants worth Rs 133 crore have been deployed. The government has also strengthened the water testing infrastructure by expanding the network of labs. NABL accreditation has been granted to 31 labs, including a state-cum-referral lab, six regional labs, 17 district-level labs, and seven block-level labs. Advertisement Promoting Water Conservation The Bhagwant Singh Mann administration is taking strict measures to prevent water wastage. Fines are being imposed under the Water Act to ensure responsible water usage. In addition, the government is promoting the use of efficient water systems and providing support to households to maintain clean and safe drinking water. A Sustainable Vision The Punjab governments comprehensive approach to clean water supply reflects its dedication to improving public health and sustainability. By focusing on both infrastructure development and water conservation, the Bhagwant Singh Mann-led government is working tirelessly to fulfill its promise of delivering clean drinking water to every household in Punjab. Farmers Meet Justice Nawab Singh Committee as Punjab Govt Updates Supreme Court The Punjab government has maintained that the Unions involvement could help de-escalate tensions. New Delhi, January 6, 2025 The Supreme Court adjourned the hearing on the ongoing farmers' protest after being informed by the Punjab government that the protesting farmers had agreed to meet Justice (Retired) Nawab Singh, Chairperson of the High-Powered Committee established to mediate the dispute. Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, representing the Punjab government, told a bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice NK Singh that the meeting was scheduled for 3 PM on Monday. Sibal expressed optimism about a potential resolution, stating, "We have managed to persuade the protesting farmers to meet Justice Nawab Singh. We are hopeful for a breakthrough." Advertisement Background of the Protest The protests, spearheaded by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, have been ongoing since November 26, 2024, with key demands including a statutory guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops. Farmers have been blocking the Shambhu border between Punjab and Haryana since February 2024. In September 2024, the Supreme Court formed a High-Powered Committee to engage with the protesting farmers, but the committee's efforts had previously been met with resistance. Health Concerns for Farmer Leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal A significant aspect of the hearing revolved around the deteriorating health of Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a farmer leader on a hunger strike since November 26. Dallewal, a cancer patient suffering from age-related ailments, has reportedly stopped taking water. Despite his critical condition, he has refused medical intervention unless the Union government addresses the farmers' demands. Advertisement The Court had earlier directed Punjab authorities to shift Dallewal to a hospital for medical supervision without forcing him to end his hunger strike. However, compliance faced resistance from protesters, who feared a forceful intervention. Courts Actions and Current Status The Supreme Court, hearing a contempt petition against Punjab officials for not complying with its directives, expressed frustration over delays in providing medical aid to Dallewal. During Monday's hearing, the Court was updated on efforts to resolve the situation through negotiation. The case was adjourned to Friday to allow time for the meeting with Justice Nawab Singh. Challenges in Implementation The Punjab government has maintained that the Unions involvement could help de-escalate tensions. However, the Union government has argued that its intervention might exacerbate the situation. Previously, the Supreme Court directed the Union to provide logistical support if requested by Punjab authorities. Advertisement As of now, the farmers demands remain unmet, and the High-Powered Committees efforts are viewed as a critical step toward resolving the stalemate. Justin Trudeau Likely to Step Down as Liberal Party Leader, Reports Suggest Trudeau has faced mounting pressure since the resignation of Chrystia Freeland, his finance minister, on December 16. Justin Trudeau Resignation Latest News Today: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is reportedly preparing to resign as leader of the Liberal Party as early as Monday, according to a report by US broadcaster Fox News. The Globe and Mail also cited anonymous sources within Trudeau's administration, claiming that the announcement is expected this week. The Liberal Party caucus is scheduled to meet on Wednesday amid growing calls for Trudeau to step aside as party leader. Advertisement Uncertain Future as Prime Minister While Trudeaus potential resignation as Liberal leader is becoming increasingly likely, it remains unclear whether he will also step down as prime minister. If he resigns from the party leadership, a leadership race would be triggered, with the new leader taking over as prime minister. Mounting Challenges Trudeau has faced mounting pressure since the resignation of Chrystia Freeland, his finance minister, on December 16. Freelands departure was abrupt and accompanied by a public letter criticizing Trudeaus leadership. Since then, Trudeau has largely avoided the public eye, spending much of his holiday season at a resort in western Canada. The prime minister has yet to make any public comments regarding his future. Advertisement Declining Political Fortunes Economic stagnation and declining public support have added to Trudeaus challenges. A recent poll by Nanos Research conducted during the holiday season shows the Conservative Party increasing its lead as Canada heads into an election year. With the Liberals projected to lose a significant portion of their 153 seats, the party has already launched pre-election advertisements warning voters that the Conservatives might cut social security programs. A Leadership at a Crossroads If Trudeau steps down, it will mark the end of a political era for the Liberal Party, which he has led since 2013. As Canadas prime minister since 2015, Trudeaus tenure has been marked by significant highs and lows, from championing progressive policies to facing criticism over ethics controversies and economic management. Advertisement For now, all eyes are on Trudeau as the nation awaits his decision, which could reshape Canadas political landscape ahead of the next federal election. January 6, 2025 A roundup of local and international news. Newsflash Newsroom, 06.01.2025, 13:52 Epiphany. Christians celebrate today the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord or Epiphany. Priests bless the water, in commemoration of Christs baptism in the river Jordan. After 30 years of living in anonymity, Jesus Christ, son of God, began his mission on the banks of the Jordan River, where the prophet John was baptizing those who repented of their sins. According to the Gospel, at the time of the baptism of Jesus, a supernatural phenomenon occurred, whereby a voice from heaven was heard, saying: This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. The heavens opened and the Holy Spirit descended on Jesus in the form of a dove. Christian theology interprets this as the manifestation of the Holy Trinity, confirming the identity of Jesus as the Son of God. The faithful who go to church today receive holy water blessed during a special service officiated after the Liturgy in front of churches or on the banks of watercourses. The blessed water is reminiscent of the consecration of the river Jordan when Jesus descended into the river to receive baptism. Budget. The government wants to finalize the state budget by the end of this month, so that the new Parliament can debate it and vote on it, most likely, in an extraordinary session. The new budget will be based on a deficit of no more than 7% of GDP, as agreed with the European Commission, with no other fiscal measures envisaged. However, major spending cuts in the public sector and the reforms laid down for in the National Recovery and Resilience Plan are needed. These include freezing public sector wages as well as state child benefits. The subsidy allocated to political parties will also be reduced by 25% compared to the level granted last year. New hirings in the public sector will also be frozen and certain public institutions will be reorganized and merged. The tax on dividends is also expected to go up from 8% to 10% and a new tax will be introduced, targeting special buildings. Pensions will not go up this year, either. The Government aims to reduce budget waste by 1% of GDP, that is by some 3.8 billion euros, and to increase budget revenues. Elections. The interim president of the National Liberal Party, Ilie Bolojan, has warned that the presidential elections could be postponed until May if the ruling coalition parties dont come up with an election timetable next week. The Liberals are in favour of holding the elections before Easter. Speaking about the nomination of the former Liberal leader Crin Antonescu as the coalitions joint candidate for president, Bolojan explained that the nomination could officially approved by each partys leadership as spoon as the election timetable is established. He called for coherence and unity in supporting the joint candidate. The leader of the Democratic Union of Ethnic Hungarians in Romania, Kelemen Hunor, said the date of the presidential elections should be set as soon as possible and that the ballot should take place before Easter. He added that a decision should be made this week. The leader of the Save Romania Union, Elena Lasconi, accused the parties in government that they are only interested in holding on to power and privileges and are not interested in the stability of the country. Candidate. The former president of the National Liberal Party, Crin Antonescu, says he no longer considers himself the joint candidate for president on behalf of the ruling coalition. He explained that he made this decision unilaterally, not withdrawing his candidacy, but realizing that the four political leaders who nominated him did not have the full backing of their parties. The Constitutional Court annulled the presidential elections at the end of 2024, against suspicions of Russias meddling in the election process. On December 23, the ruling parties, namely the Social Democratic Party, the National Liberal Party and the Democratic Union of Ethnic Hungarians in Romania, as well as the group of ethnic minorities, agreed to support a joint candidate for president and nominated Crin Antonescu, with the decision to be later put to the vote by each partys leadership boards. On December 28, they established that the first round of the presidential elections would take place on March 23, followed by the second round on April 6. In order for the two ballots to be held on these dates, the government must issue an order to this end by January 7. Golden Globe. The Romanian-American actor Sebastian Stan won the Golden Globe award for the best leading role in the film A Different Man, where he plays a man struggling with a genetic condition that causes skin and bone tumors. The role also earned the Silver Bear trophy at the Berlin International Film Festival last year. At the Golden Globes, Sebastian Stan was also nominated for his role in The Apprentice, in which he plays the billionaire Donald Trump. Stan was born in Romania, but left the country when he was only 12 years old. The private sector in Singapore continued to expand in December, albeit at a slower pace, the latest survey from S&P Global revealed on Monday with a PMI score of 51.5. That's down from 53.9 in November, although it remains well above the boom-or-bust line of 50 that separates expansion from contraction. Business activity expanded at a rate that was modest and the softest for 22 months at the end of 2024. This was in line with the trend for new , where growth also decelerated to the slowest since February 2023. While Singaporean businesses generally observed an improvement in demand with business development efforts bearing fruit, some industries faced a slowdown in December according to panelists. New business rose quickest within the finance and insurance sector, but notably declined for manufacturers and construction firms. Softer new business growth contributed to a slowdown in the rate of backlog accumulation in December. The pace at which the level of unfinished work rose was the lowest recorded in two years. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Economic News What parts of the world are seeing the best (and worst) economic performances lately? Click here to check out our Econ Scorecard and find out! See up-to-the-moment rankings for the best and worst performers in GDP, unemployment rate, inflation and much more. Indian shares opened a tad lower on Monday, mirroring weak cues from global . The benchmark S&P/BSE Sensex was down 132 points, or 0.2 percent, at 79,096 in early trade while the broader NSE Nifty index was down 76 points, or 0.3 percent, at 23,928. Among the prominent decliners, Hindalco, Coal India, BPCL, Tata Steel and Kotak Mahindra Bank all fell around 2 percent. Bajaj Finance rose 1.3 percent. In its quarterly update, the company said that its assets under management grew 28 percent in the third quarter ended December 31, 2024. FSN E-Commerce Ventures jumped nearly 4 percent. The company said it expects Q3 consolidated net revenue growth to be higher than mid-twenties. Bank of India declined 1.7 percent on reports it is looking to sell stressed loans in Simbhaoli Sugars and Visa Steel. Hindustan Unilever fell 1.5 percent on reports it is in advanced talks to acquire direct-to-consumer (D2C) skincare brand Minimalist at a valuation of Rs 3,000 crore. Dabur India tumbled 4.4 percent after saying it expects low single-digit revenue growth in the December quarter. Easy Trip Planners soared 6 percent after one of its co-promoters confirmed that there will be no further stake sale from any of its promoters in the future. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Market Analysis Diversified Energy Company Plc (DEC), an owner and operator of natural gas and oil wells, on Monday announced the acquisition of operated natural gas properties and related facilities located within Virginia, West Virginia, and Alabama from Summit Natural Resources for around $45 million to be fully funded through cash on hand and current liquidity. The transaction, expected to be closed in the first quarter of 2025, includes 300 net producing wells that are located within Diversified's operational footprint in the Appalachian states of Virginia and West Virginia. It also includes 265 net-producing coal mine methane or CMM wells located within Alabama that are highly proximate to Diversified's corporate headquarters in Birmingham, Alabama. With this acquisition, the company anticipates capturing additional revenue from the sale of incremental environmental credits with its growth in the production of coal mine methane. These assets have a current production capacity of around 12 MMcfepd, with PDP reserves of 65 Bcfe or 11 MMBoe. Excluding items, for the full year 2025, the assets are expected to generate EBITDA of around $12 million. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Interference in western politics is no longer just coming from Russia. There is another figure bent on meddling in the European democratic process. And his interference is causing nervousness in a number of capitals in the run up to the general elections in Germany, the EUs most powerful economy and populated country. There is the threat from Moscow and Vladimir Putins so-called hybrid war and attempts to destabilize electoral campaigns, the most recent case of interference being the presidential elections in Romania last November, which were suspended by the Constitutional Court due to an alleged disinformation and manipulation campaign in favor of the extreme right-wing and pro-Russian candidate Calin Georgescu. Then there is the interference practiced by Elon Musk, the richest man in the world, master of Tesla, SpaceX and the social network X, and member of Donald Trumps new administration, which will take office on January 20. His interference is neither illegal nor clandestine; it is simply brazen. In the United Kingdom, Musks attacks on Prime Minister Keir Starmer have become one of the most pressing issues facing the Labour government. The billionaire singles out Starmer in X with apocalyptic accusations and a clear inflammatory intent. In Germany, Chancellor Olaf Scholz who has also been the brunt of Musks X attacks, has called for calm in the face of the erratic statements of a U.S. billionaire. Only the AfD can save Germany, Musk wrote on X on December 19, referring to the acronym of the far-right Alternative for Germany party. The tycoon went on to elaborate in an article in the conservative daily Welt am Sonntag: Germany is at a critical juncture. Its future teeters on the brink of economic and cultural collapse. A few days earlier, when the Romanian Constitutional Court announced the controversial annulment of the presidential elections after the victory of the pro-Russian Georgescu in the first round, Musk said: How can a judge cancel an election and not be considered a dictator. Musks meddling comes in a year in which Europe faces several elections: besides the German legislative elections and the repeat of the Romanian presidential elections, Poland and other countries will go to the polls. Meanwhile, Ukraine has reached a critical moment in its war and far-right parties are feeling the wind at their backs; according to polls, AfD will jump to second place in the February 23 elections. External influence is a danger to democracy, whether it is covert, as was evidently the case recently in the Romanian elections, or open and blatant, as is currently being practiced particularly intensively on (social media) platform X, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier warned. Anti-democratic tyrant, Musk shot back. Alternative for Germany (AfD) co-leader and chancellor candidate Alice Weidel at a rally in Magdeburg December 23 Axel Schmidt (REUTERS) In Germany, Musk has offered the far right and its candidate for chancellor, Alice Weidel, a double stamp of respectability. Viewed with great suspicion by many in her own country, she is the choice of the richest man in the world and a friend to the next U.S. president. Musks op-ed supporting the AfD was published in the columns of none other than the daily Die Welt and its Sunday newspaper Welt am Sonntag, a newspaper belonging to the powerful Axel Springer media group. In just a few days, this party with its echoes of 1930s German nationalism, deemed too radical even by Frances Marine Le Pen made significant strides toward normalization. Alice Weidel cant believe her luck with this election recommendation, says Thorsten Benner, director of the Global Public Policy Institute in Berlin. I would say there are many people who wouldnt have thought about voting for them who are now going to vote for them because Musk recommended it, but Axel Springer publishing this article is an important step for AfD. In the U.K., Musk is using a 10-year-old grooming scandal to attack Starmer, who was then in charge of public prosecutions. More than 1,400 girls in the care of welfare services were sexually abused by organized groups made up mostly of men of Pakistani origin, according to an independent report commissioned by the government. Starmer must go and he must face charges for his complicity in the worst mass crime in the history of Britain, Musk wrote on X. In Romania, which is a member of NATO, the interference has stirred a political and constitutional crisis. Its intelligence services suspect Russian hybrid actions on Internet infrastructure, similar to those in neighboring Moldova and Ukraine, and the abusive exploitation of the algorithm of TikTok, the platform with more than 2 billion users that was instrumental in boosting the extremist candidate. The Romanian case Romania is a very interesting example of how our democracy can be vulnerable, observes veteran Romanian analyst Radu Magdin. According to Magdin, it serves as a lesson on the need for better and more transparent laws on the financing of partisan campaigns on networks and paid collaborations with influencers who accumulate millions of followers. Sorin Ionita of the Romanian think tank Expert Forum believes that the parallel between the interference in Romania and Germany is misguided. Musk is an identifiable person with a known agenda. He is like a crazy cowboy, but we see what he does. In Romania, its totally different. In his country, he says, the external campaign has taken advantage of internal weaknesses, and has benefited from the existence of opaque and incompetent politicians and institutions. Pro-Russian candidate Calin Georgescu, who won the first round of the presidential election, addresses the media after appealing the annulment of the election, in December in Bucharest. BOGDAN CRISTEL (EFE) Marietje Schaake, author of the book The Tech Coup: How to Save Democracy from Silicon Valley, explains, When Musk openly tweets his opinions, or makes a donation, it is different from the non-transparent role that X algorithms play in mobilizing voters. It is disturbing to see him using his voice, his wealth, and his social media platform to support leaders of the nationalist far right. Musk occupies too many roles without the necessary checks and balances. Schaake, a former liberal MEP from the Netherlands and now a researcher at Stanford University, says that in the case of Russia, the methods are of a more silent nature misinforming and sowing divisions in a non-transparent way. And yet, there are similarities: Russian actors exploit the business models of American tech companies to find and reach their audiences, she says. Other countries have detected interference campaigns, mainly from Russia. The potential of social networks to destabilize, manipulate and skew elections is becoming increasingly clear. But Romania has been the first country to pull the emergency brake on the elections just before the second round. This has proved a radical and highly controversial action that sets a dangerous precedent, according to a high-ranking European official. Political scientist Camil Ungureanu, professor at Pompeu Fabra University, believes that the courts intervention could exacerbate the situation. It seems plausible that the [court] decision is also motivated by the establishments fear of losing its privileged position. Romanias actions fuel the Kremlins narrative that liberal democracies cant accept the results of their elections. I am sure that all these games are perfectly understandable to any more or less objective observer, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said. Romania is the first case of elections annulled due to interference on social networks. And it puts other countries on alert regarding Russias hybrid warfare; Moscow actually has an agency with units specially dedicated to electoral interference and has a powerful machinery to spread and amplify false news and disinformation campaigns that are often based on real problems and cases, according to several investigations. Debate in Germany What happened in Romania could happen anywhere in Europe, warns MEP Siegfried Muresan of the European Peoples Party. [Russias] aim is to favor extremist anti-European candidates, in order to destabilize EU member states and disrupt the EU as a whole. They have done this on a smaller scale in the past. What we are seeing now is a whole new level. Benner of the Global Public Policy Institute believes that, in Germany, the reaction should not be limited to anger at Musk but should take concrete forms. For example, more regulation of X. Or a campaign not to buy Tesla cars. It is also necessary to find good arguments on issues that mobilize voters. Issues such as social unrest and the economic crisis that, precisely, feed the extreme right. Musk acts as a distraction. Criticizing Elon Musk does not solve a single problem experienced by German voters, he points out. The German debate is not only political. It is journalistic. In the editorial offices of Die Welt and Welt am Sonntag, discussions have been intense and the head of Opinion, Eva Marie Kogel, has resigned. Alongside Musks article, the newspaper published an article by its editor-in-chief, Jan Philipp Burgard, taking the opposite view. Axel Springer is not just any media group. Since the post-war period, its articles have included support for Israel. Hence, readers might well have been surprised to read a plea to vote for a party that the newspaper itself describes as partly antisemitic. I cannot recall a comparable case of interference in the electoral campaign of a friendly country in the history of Western democracies, declared Friedrich Merz, Christian Democrat candidate and favorite to succeed Scholz as Chancellor. In the U.K., on the other hand, Musks attacks on Starmer have been applauded by the British opposition. The new Conservative leader, Kemi Badenoch, has backed Musks attacks by calling for an inquiry into past abuses, despite the fact that her party previously refused to push for them. Populist leader Nigel Farage has also praised the billionaire, encouraged by the promise of massive funding for his party, Reform UK. However, the bromance between the pair has soured since Musk wrote on X that Farage is not up to the task of leading Reform UK. The fallout came after Musk launched a campaign for the release of the far-right activist Tommy Robinson, former leader of the English Defense League, in prison contempt of court by repeating false claims against a 15-year-old Syrian refugee. Musk falsely portrays Robinson as a champion of free speech, claiming he bravely exposed alleged power maneuvers to cover up sex scandals, supposedly to favor a Muslim minority. Farage failed to fall into line. Marietje Schaake, the author of The Technological Coup, believes that the recipe for interference is more transparency and accountability. Generally speaking, the distribution of information and the financing of campaigns and candidates is acceptable as long as it is within the limits of the law, she says. I think its time to critically review current laws to avoid inappropriate interference. According to Ionita of the Romanian Expert Forum, what happened in his country is a warning sign for Europe. If someone was interested in amplifying internal disputes and the incompetence of the authorities in Romania, in Germany the stakes are 10 times higher, he says. If Germany is destroyed politically, that is how Europe will be ruined. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Seven U.S. soldiers were inducted into the Pentagon's Hall of Heroes during an off-site ceremony at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall in Arlington, Virginia. Pvt. Bruno R. Orig, Pfc. Wataru Nakamura, Cpl. Fred B. McGee, Pfc. Charles R. Johnson and Gen. Richard E. Cavazos, who served in the Korean War, were inducted into the Hall of Heroes posthumously. From the Vietnam War, both Capt. Hugh R. Nelson Jr. and Pfc. Kenneth J. David were inducted. David was the only living inductee. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin, Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth and Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. Randy A. George inducted the soldiers into the Hall of Heroes. "It's incredibly powerful to hear these seven stories of sheer bravery and sacrifice," said Austin, who himself served in the Army for more than 40 years. "The soldiers whom we honor today came from different walks of life, from different communities and from different parts of our country." All these soldiers received the Medal of Honor at a ceremony held at the White House Friday. Except for Pfc. David, the family members accepted the decoration on their behalf from President Joe Biden. The names of all service members who receive the Medal of Honor are enshrined at the Pentagon's Hall of Heroes. Orig, Nakamura and Johnson were killed in action while serving in Korea, while Nelson was killed in action serving in Vietnam. Following service in wartime, McGee spent more than 40 years working in the steel industry and also served in multiple civic organizations. He died in 2020 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Cavazos continued service in the Army until 1984 and retired as a four-star general. He died in 2017. David, the only living medal recipient, has spent the decades following the Vietnam War serving military veterans in his community. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News CPI Aerostructures, Inc. (CVU), an aerospace manufacturer, Monday, announced that it has appointed Carey Bond as Chairman of its Board of Directors, effective immediately, following the resignation of Terry Stinson. Bond, who joined the Board in 2016, has previously served as Vice-Chairman. Meanwhile, Stinson, after six years as Chairman, will remain on the Board as Vice-Chairman, providing strategic guidance. Currently, CVU is trading at $4.65, up 7.66 percent or $0.33 on the New York Stock Exchange. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News A former model from Horsham, West Sussex, has undergone a major surgery to remove a total of eight organs from her body, making it "the mother of all surgeries". "To have been told there is no evidence of disease, it was the greatest Christmas gift that I could have got," Faye Louise told BBC Radio Sussex. She discovered about the aggressive cancer when she visited doctors to have her ovarian cyst checked. The doctors discovered that Louise has a condition called pseudomyxoma peritonei, a cancer which spreads from organ to organ by building-up a jelly-like substance in the abdomen. By the time she learnt about the cancer, it has spread through eight of her organs, affecting her spleen, gallbladder, appendix, ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, belly button, part of her liver, and greater and lesser omentum. As the cancerous cells were spreading quickly in her body, the doctors decided to conduct a surgery to remove the cancerous organs. She was soon pronounced cancer-free following her surgery in November 2023. Louise has since returned to work as a flight dispatcher at Gatwick Airport. However, she is still required to have scans every year in November. "Waiting for the results will sadly make or break every Christmas for me. But you just have to keep pushing forward and never give up," she said to BBC. "Some days I have been down to the depths of despair, but more often than not now, I'm having more positive days." For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Health News In a tragic road rage incident on New Years Eve, a man named Hanifa (54) succumbed to injuries sustained during an altercation in Kanjiramattom, Kochi. The incident, which occurred late on the night of December 31, has left the local community shocked and has drawn attention to growing concerns about road rage. Sequence of Events The altercation began when Hanifas car accidentally collided with a parked car owned by Shibu. What followed was a heated argument between the two men. During the confrontation, Shibu reportedly slapped Hanifa, causing him to fall onto the road. Hanifa suffered severe head injuries from the fall. CCTV footage of the incident has surfaced, clearly showing Hanifas car hitting Shibus parked vehicle, followed by the verbal exchange and Hanifa collapsing after being struck. The footage also reveals bystanders witnessing the incident. Aftermath and Investigation Hanifa was rushed to the hospital for treatment but succumbed to his injuries a few days later. The police have confirmed that a case of culpable homicide not amounting to murder has been registered against Shibu, who fled the scene upon learning of Hanifas critical condition. An intensive investigation is underway to locate him. The police have stated that such cases of road rage leading to fatalities are rare but concerning. They have urged citizens to exercise patience and avoid escalating disputes, especially in situations involving minor accidents. The incident has sparked widespread discussions on social media, with many expressing outrage over the unnecessary escalation of the situation. Local leaders and activists have called for stricter measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked anger and the importance of maintaining composure in high-stress situations. Authorities are urging the public to prioritize safety and avoid taking matters into their own hands. Indias largest car manufacturer, Maruti Suzuki, has opened the accounts for January 2025 with exciting offers with their Nexa lineup. This is the dealer lineup where Maruti Suzuki offers its premium vehicle portfolio. For January 2025, Maruti Suzuki is offering offers on both MY24 models and MY25 models, with a maximum discount offered of up to Rs 2.15 lakh. 1. XL6 Discounts Up To Rs 50K Starting with Maruti Suzuki XL6 premium MPV, it gets a total maximum discount of Rs 50,000 for MY24 and Rs 25,000 for MY25. Theres no consumer offer on MY25 XL6, unlike the Rs 25,000 on MY24 XL6. Exchange bonus is Rs 20,000 and scrappage bonus is Rs 25,000. These offers are applicable to both Petrol and CNG models. 2. Ciaz Discounts Up To Rs 60K While all of its rivals moved up in size, features and premium appeal, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz is growing longer in its tooth. In January 2025, it gets Rs 60,000 off on MY24 variants of Sigma and Delta trims and Rs 55,000 off on Alpha and Zeta. For MY25 Ciaz, discounts go till Rs 30,000. There are no consumer offers on MY25 Ciaz, unlike the MY24 Ciaz with up to Rs 30,000. 3. Baleno Discounts Up To Rs 62K There are consumer discounts of up to Rs 40,000 on MY24 Baleno and up to Rs 20,000 on MY25 Baleno. Exchange bonus is Rs 15,000 and scrappage bonus is Rs 20,000 for all engine options. Theres a Rs 2,100 rural offer as well, taking the total discount of up to Rs 62,000 on MY24 and Rs 42,000 on MY25, depending on engine options. 4. Ignis Discounts Up To Rs 77K Ever since it was launched, Maruti Ignis has stayed the same with no major design updates. It is not as slow of a seller as Ciaz, but is also growing in the tooth. In January 2025, it gets consumer discounts of up to Rs 45,000 on MY24 and up to Rs 20,000 on MY25. Rs 15,000 exchange bonus, Rs 30,000 scrappage bonus and Rs 2,100 of corporate and rural offers take the total discounts to Rs 77,000 on MY24 and Rs 52,000 on MY25. 5. Fronx Discounts Up To Rs 93K There are no consumer discounts on MY25 NA Petrol Fronx and MY24 CNG Fronx. NA Petrol MY24 Fronx gets up to Rs 20,000 off. Where non-Turbo Fronx is concerned, max discounts is Rs 35,000 on MY24 and Rs 15,000 on MY25. With Fronx Turbo, consumer discount is up to Rs 78,000 with MY24 and up to Rs 58,000 (Rs 43,000 worth Velocity Edition included). There are Rs 10,000 and Rs 15,000 worth of exchange and scrappage bonuses. Total discounts for Fronx Turbo go till Rs 93,000 for MY24 and Rs 73,000 for MY25 (Rs 43,000 worth Velocity Edition included). 6. Grand Vitara Discounts Up To Rs 1.18 Lakh + EW Consumer discount Grand Vitara goes till Rs 65,000 for MY24 and Rs 25,000 for MY25. Scrappage bonus and exchange bonus are more with Petrol+Hybrid variants peaking at Rs 50,000 and Rs 65,000 respectively. There are corporate and rural bonuses of Rs 3,100 each, taking the total discounts up to Rs 1,18,100 + 5-Year EW for MY24 and Rs 93,100 + 5-Year EW for MY25. 7. Jimny Discounts Up To Rs 1.9 Lakh Marutis modern interpretation of Gypsy, the Jimny, is proving to be a tough sell for the company. Jimny gets up to Rs 1.9 lakh and Rs 25,000 consumer discount on MY24 and MY25, respectively. There are no exchange, scrappage, rural or corporate offers. The max Rs 1.9 lakh discount on MY24 is a straight-up 100% consumer discount. 8. Invicto Discounts Up To Rs 2.15 Lakh With Maruti Suzukis flagship Invicto, there is no consumer discount for MY25 version, while MY24 gets up to Rs 1,00,000 off. Exchange bonus is Rs 1,00,000 and scrappage bonus is Rs 1,15,00 for both MY24 and MY25, highest among any Nexa car by a huge margin. Total discounts on Invicto are Rs 2,10,000 for MY24 and Rs 1,15,000 for MY25. Philip Sean Grillo participated in the storming of the Capitol on January 6, 2021. He repeatedly encouraged fellow rioters to charge as they entered Congress, and is seen on video claiming he was in the Capitol to stop the steal of the 2020 election from Donald Trump, who spread the lie that he was the real winner. He was prosecuted for multiple crimes and appeared in a federal court in Washington last month to hear his sentence. The judge sentenced him to one year in prison and sent him to jail. After hearing his sentence, while a guard handcuffed him, he defiantly proclaimed, Trumps gonna pardon me anyways. Like Grillo, hundreds of people who were prosecuted and convicted for their role on the Capitol assault are now declaring victory. Some of those whose movements have been restricted by court order, such as Christopher Belliveau, Cindy Young and William Pope, have requested special permits to be able to attend Trumps inauguration on January 20. For them, it will be a great day. Their leader is not only regaining power, but has promised mass pardons for convicted rioters. The fourth anniversary of the Capitol riot, which shook the foundations of American democracy, is marked by Trumps victory in the November 5 election. On January 6, Congress will certify his victory, four years after his own supporters tried to prevent Joe Biden from being declared the winner following his victory in 2020. Since his first campaign rally in Waco, Texas, in March 2023, Trump has been paying tribute to the rioters. That day, he opened the event with the song Justice for All, which features a choir of imprisoned insurrectionists singing the national anthem, with Trump himself reciting the pledge of allegiance. As the song played, giant screens showed images from January 6, 2021. Donald Trump at a rally in Waco, Texas, in March 2023, as Capitol rioters played the national anthem and images from January 6, 2021 were projected on screens. Evan Vucci (AP/LaPresse) Trump, who said he saw a lot of love on the day of the Capitol attack, has repeatedly referred to the insurrectionists as patriots and to those imprisoned as hostages or political prisoners. In response to that message, President Joe Biden, then a candidate for reelection, took advantage of the third anniversary of the attack, a year ago, to criticize Trump for glorifying, rather than condemning, political violence and underscoring the risk it represented for democracy. Democracy, however, has returned Trump to power. The president-elect has promised mass pardons, though he has said these will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Were going to look at each individual case, and were going to do it very quickly, and its going to start in the first hour that I get into office, he said in an interview with Time magazine last month, at one point specifying that Ill be looking at J6 early on, maybe the first nine minutes. He also said that the rioters suffered greatly, and in many cases they should not have suffered. Trump himself has escaped any criminal liability in the events by being elected president. He is, so to speak, the recipient of the very first pardon: the voters have forgiven him. According to the Justice Department, more than 140 police officers were assaulted on January 6, 2021, including more than 80 from the Capitol Police and more than 60 from the Metropolitan Police. Five people died that day. The most recent tally shows that 1,572 defendants have been charged. There are 1,068 who have been sentenced for their criminal activity that day, including 645 sentenced to prison terms and another 145 who have been allowed to serve their sentence under house arrest. There are 133 sentences under review after the conservative-majority Supreme Court decided in June that the crime of obstructing an official proceeding does not apply to the assault on the Capitol (despite the fact that it obstructed the certification of Bidens victory). The longest sentence was 22 years in prison for Enrique Tarrio, president of the far-right militia Proud Boys, who was found guilty of seditious conspiracy. His lieutenant Ethan Nordean was sentenced to 18 years, the same as Stewart Rhodes, founder and leader of the far-right group Oath Keepers, a kind of paramilitary militia. Enrique Tarrio, leader of the Proud Boys, in a photo from September 2020. Allison Dinner (AP/LaPresse) It remains to be seen whether those convicted of more serious crimes will also benefit from Trumps clemency. Judge Amit Mehta, who sentenced the Oath Keepers leader, recently expressed concern about the matter. The notion that Stewart Rhodes could be absolved is frightening and ought to be frightening to anyone who cares about democracy in this country, he said on December 18 at a hearing in which he sentenced another member of the militia. Joyce Vance, a Brennan Center researcher and professor at the University of Alabama, is highly critical of possible presidential pardons. If Trump pardons January 6 rioters, he would be using the pardon power to erase an attack on Constitution and country, she she writes in an article published this week.. the January 6 defendants return would give a boost to the white supremacist and domestic terror groups many of them participated in before they overran the Capitol, and it would severely dampen the deterrent effect of our laws against future aggression. Such a pardon, based not on granting mercy to nonviolent offenders but on rewarding political loyalists, cloaked in the appearance of lawful authority, it would put the presidential seal on crimes that go to the heart of an attack on our democracy, she argues. By advertising his willingness to pardon the people who supported him rather than the Constitution, Trump is sending a message to the people he is counting on to support him this go-round: If they protect him, he will take care of them. Its a message fit for a would-be authoritarian. Biden on Thursday decorated Liz Cheney, the Republican who served on the Congressional committee investigating the Capitol assault, for putting the American people above party. But the tables have turned so sharply that Bidens team is now considering whether to grant Cheney a preemptive pardon to shield her from the persecution that Republicans are threatening her with. Veteran Judge Royce Lamberth, who sent Grillo to jail a month ago, was aware that Trump may soon pardon him. Everyone in this room, including Mr. Grillo, is aware that the president-elect has publicly contemplated pardoning people who participated in the Capitol riots at various points throughout his campaign. Lamberth went on to say that when then-president Ronald Reagan appointed him 37 years ago, he swore an oath to uphold his obligations under the United States Constitution. I will do my job as Im bound by oath to do, and the president will do his. Its a simple as that, he said. US Vice President Kamala Harris and House Speaker Mike Johnson during the joint session of Congress to certify the election of Donald Trump. With the Capitol sealed off and Washington blanketed in snow, the U.S. Congress on Monday officially certified Donald Trumps victory in the November 5 presidential election. In stark contrast to four years ago when a violent mob stormed the halls of legislative power in response to Trumps refusal to concede defeat to Joe Biden Mondays proceedings unfolded as a routine affair. The only violence witnessed was children gleefully hurling snowballs during the capitals first major snowfall of the winter. Trump will assume office on January 20 and has pledged mass pardons for those prosecuted for the 2021 Capitol attack. Meanwhile, President Biden has urged Americans to remember the events of January 6, emphasizing the need to reflect on the lessons of that day. The joint session of the Senate and the House of Representatives convened to count the electoral votes from the states, completing the process of electing the President of the United States under the countrys Electoral College system. Trump, who secured victory with a 2.3 million lead in the popular vote, garnered 312 votes in the Electoral College, compared to Kamala Harriss 226. In a bitter twist, Harris, the Vice President of the United States, presided over the session that certified her rivals victory a moment reminiscent of Al Gores experience against George W. Bush in 2001. Sharing the dais with Harris was Mike Johnson, the newly elected Speaker of the House of Representatives. Meanwhile, much of the attention on the floor was directed toward Senator J.D. Vance, the vice president-elect. Ceremonially, ushers carried the electoral votes into the designated mahogany boxes for the occasion. Following the alphabetical order of states, the members of Congress responsible for the task declared the electoral votes regular in form and authentic before announcing the candidate to whom each vote corresponded. Republicans applauded votes for Trump and Vance, while Democrats cheered for Harris and Tim Walz. Unlike the events of four years ago, no objections were raised, and the entire process concluded smoothly in about half an hour. Meanwhile, Biden reflected on the events of January 6, 2021, in an op-ed published Monday in The Washington Post. He noted that, for much of American history, this procedure had been considered routine. After what we all witnessed on Jan. 6, 2021, we know we can never again take it for granted. Violent insurrectionists attacked the Capitol, threatened the lives of elected officials and assaulted brave law enforcement officers. he recalled. We should be proud that our democracy withstood this assault. And we should be glad we will not see such a shameful attack again this year, the op-ed continued. But we should not forget. We must remember the wisdom of the adage that any nation that forgets its past is doomed to repeat it. We cannot accept a repeat of what occurred four years ago. A security fencing which encircles the U.S. Capitol building is pictured on Monday. Fabrizio Bensch (REUTERS) President Biden condemned what he describes as an unrelenting effort [..,] to rewrite even erase the history of that day. To tell us we didnt see what we all saw with our own eyes. To dismiss concerns about it as some kind of partisan obsession. To explain it away as a protest that just got out of hand. This is not what happened, he said in the op-ed. We cannot allow the truth to be lost. We should commit to remembering Jan. 6, 2021, every year. To remember it as a day when our democracy was put to the test and prevailed. To remember that democracy even in America is never guaranteed, said Biden. Four years later, leaving office, I am determined to do everything I can to respect the peaceful transfer of power and restore the traditions we have long respected in America. Biden also said that he has invited Trump to the White House on the morning of January 20 and that he will be present at Trumps inauguration that day. Despite these gestures of civility, the relationship between the two political rivals leaves much to be desired. Trump sharply criticized Biden on his social media platform, Truth Social, arguing: Biden is doing everything possible to make the TRANSITION as difficult as possible, from Lawfare such as has never been seen before, to costly and ridiculous Executive Orders on the Green New Scam and other money wasting Hoaxes. Sentence for 34 charges By referencing lawfare, Trump was likely alluding to his upcoming sentencing next Friday for 34 counts of falsifying accounting records, checks, and invoices a case in which a jury found him guilty last May. His lawyers have requested the hearing be suspended and announced plans to appeal the judges decision to proceed with sentencing. As for the Green New Scam, Trump was referring to President Bidens decision, issued on Monday, to ban hydrocarbon exploration and production along U.S. coasts. Biden has enacted protections for offshore areas along the East and West Coasts, the eastern Gulf of Mexico, and portions of Alaskas northern Bering Sea, shielding them from future oil and natural gas drilling. The president claims his decision is supported by coastal communities, who are aware that offshore drilling could cause irreversible environmental damage. The orders do not impact the vast sections of the Gulf of Mexico, where the majority of U.S. offshore drilling takes place, but they safeguard the coasts of California, Florida, and other states from future drilling projects. Trump, who has pledged to loosen environmental regulations for oil and gas production, has vowed to repeal these executive orders. However, current law provides no direct presidential mechanism to reverse such protections. Undoing them would require legislative action in Congress, where Republicans hold a narrow majority. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Courtesy Bronson Cancer Care Equity Project and DNSWM Andrew Lowden (left) and Allison Leece stand together at the DNSWM office. The two, who are Caucasian, are wearing business casual attire. The background includes a whiteboard, office supplies and colorful artwork. Courtesy Bronson Cancer Care Equity Project and DNSWM Community health workers Jessica LaGrand, wearing a black dress with a white polka-dot blazer, and Andrew Lowden, wearing a striped button-up shirt with a rainbow lanyard, stand together in front of an informational booth at a health fair. A group of Kalamazoo-area community members are working together on a shared goal: making cancer care equitable for everyone.They are part of Bronson Healthcares Cancer Care Equity (CCE) project, a groundbreaking initiative that tackles disparities in cancer care by putting the community at the center of the solution.The group is led by LaShawnda Bates, project manager and data specialist for Cancer Care Equity at Bronson Healthcare.The CCE project emerged as a response to alarming health disparities affecting marginalized groups, including people with disabilities, Black, Indigenous, and people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and those from low-income households."Our most marginalized community members often have inequitable health outcomes," Bates says. "We recognize that systemic inequities and social drivers of health have long contributed to these disparities."What sets the CCE project apart is its collaborative approach."The CCE project takes a nontraditional approach by partnering rather than dictating, engaging rather than conducting outreach," says Bates."We value our community and understand they are the experts in their lived experiences. That is why we created Community Advisory Committees (CAC) in partnership with our community members to identify and co-create relevant interventions that address the gaps in health equity."The CAC, which includes individuals from diverse backgrounds, works closely with Bronson to craft solutions tailored to the needs of underrepresented populations. For example, Disability Network Southwest Michigan has played a pivotal role in addressing barriers faced by individuals with disabilities."Disability Network has been an invaluable resource and partner," says Bates.Health care access for people with disabilities can be filled with obstacles, from physical to interpersonal. Some of the barriers include:Many people struggle financially and are underinsured or unable to afford care. To address this, Bronson has enlisted social workers, community health specialists, and financial navigators to assist patients in finding affordable insurance or financial assistance.Anxiety about medical procedures or the inability to perform self-exams due to physical limitations can discourage preventative care. Patients work closely with their primary care providers, who know their medical histories and can create individualized care plans.Ineffective communication between patients and providers can lead to missed opportunities for care. Bronson has implemented a Communication Access Plan to assess patients needs, including sign language interpreters or communication devices.Physical barriers to care also persist, such as mammography equipment that cannot accommodate patients in wheelchairs or exam tables that aren't height-adjustable. As a result, Bronson is investing in flexible equipment to accommodate all patients.The partnership with Disability Network Southwest Michigan has proven transformative."Through our interactions with the Disability Network, we gain a deeper understanding of the lived experiences of those with a disability," Bates says. "Our partnership has given us the opportunity to explore how we can expand our communications to ensure we are actively including all individuals in cancer prevention and screening."Together, theyve also focused on improving educational resources for patients. In one initiative, Disability Network helped vet a new version of Bronsons testicular self-exam shower card and identified the need for braille versions, ensuring accessibility for individuals with visual impairments.Allison Leece, DNSWM communications and outreach manager, describes Bronsons proactive approach to inclusivity as demonstrating a real commitment to making sure that cancer prevention services are accessible and tailored to the diverse needs of people with disabilities.This partnership is a much-needed step toward equitable healthcare for all, says Leece, noting that Andrew Lowden, a community health worker with Bronsons Cancer Care Equity project, recently visited Disability Network Southwest Michigan to discuss ways their organizations could collaborate.The conversation sparked innovative ideas, including the use of plain language to ensure educational materials resonate with a broader audience.In one of the first conversations I had with Andrew, we literally talked about using the word balls instead of testicles on the shower card Andrew was working on, Leece says. It was great to have a dialogue about the use of plain language, a concept we try to utilize as much as possible at Disability Network because it makes the message more likely to make sense. If the goal is to make this information as effective as possible, lets use the terms that most of the public uses. They took such a practical approach to the shower cards, and I expect it will make a big impact and reach a wider audience.As a locally owned nonprofit health care system, Bronson collaborates with numerous organizations to create inclusive health care environments. These efforts are supported by teams focused on community health advancement, diversity, equity, and patient education.Educational resources developed by Bronson include braille translations, large print materials, closed-captioning for online health education activities, and interpretation services for more than 20 languages. These resources aim to reduce barriers and create trust."Collaborative efforts between our teams and community partners allow us to create and strengthen opportunities while gaining invaluable feedback," says Bates. "This feedback helps us address inequities and improve health outcomes for everyone in our community."The CCE projects influence extends beyond Bronson. As part of a partnership with Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine, the CAC fosters dialogue and innovation to address health inequities across Southwest Michigan."We are committed to reducing health disparities through deeper collaborations and trust within our communities," says Bates. "Our goal is to ensure that every community member has access to the care they need." Courtesy Meresa Salisbury Meresa Salisbury, a community inclusion specialist with Disability Network West Michigan. Courtesy Meresa Salisbury Meresa Salisbury attends a trunk or treat event in Baldwin. Courtesy Meresa Salisbury Meresa Salisbury decorates her office at Disability Network West Michigan. Mary Hill had reached her breaking point. The septic system at her rural home wasnt working, and with family members, including herself, who have disabilities, she didnt know where to turn.Feeling overwhelmed, she reached out to Meresa Salisbury, a community inclusion specialist with Disability Network West Michigan (DNWM).Two days later, at 8 in the morning, a septic company showed up at my house. She had reached out to someone, and they came out and cleaned everything up. It was a miracle, Hill says.Since DNWMs new Baldwin office opened in May in the Michigan Works building at 5252 M-37, it has served as a vital resource for individuals with disabilities, their families, and their caregivers.Salisbury says her focus is on more than connecting people to services; its about building trust, fostering independence, and helping people with disabilities and their caregivers navigate challenges.Were working to make sure people know were here, Salisbury says of the new office. Weve provided services in this county for 25 years, but having an actual office makes a big difference.The office is open Monday, Thursday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Salisbury splits her time between the office and the field.The collaboration with Michigan Works is already yielding results.Michigan Works has other services here too, so sometimes when someone comes in for assistance, they mention a need that aligns with what we offer, Salisbury explains. It creates a collaborative effort between us and the other organizations in the building.The first step in helping someone is listening. Salisbury recalls a single father she met at a resource night hosted by the Baldwin schools. The man, who has a physical disability, was struggling to get to the grocery store while his young children were at school.He told me how much of a relief it was to have someone listen and help, Salisbury says. We talked discreetly on the side of the event, and I was able to get him bus tokens so he could get what he needed. Its moments like that where you see the immediate impact.The Baldwin office is designed to encourage these kinds of conversations.The space has been made to be comfortable, to encourage dialogue, Salisbury says. When we speak on the phone, people are given as much time as they need to talk. Some conversations are about encouragement, helping people use their voice.In another case, Salisbury supported a mother caring for a daughter with Noonan Syndrome, a rare genetic condition. She was connected to an organization offering specialized resources.Another woman, who was living with a traumatic brain injury, learned about the Brain Injury Association of Michigan, which provides grants of up to $400 annually for basic needs like food, medication, and transportation.Its about filling those gaps and connecting people to what they need, Salisbury says.Hill says Salisburys support has gone beyond the septic repair. Salisbury has been a constant resource for navigating challenges, from finding assistance with heating bills to securing a walker.Hill recently fell down her basement stairs and needed a ramp, but local organizations hesitated to help until she owned her home outright. She had just four payments left before owning her home outright on a land contract.Within 10 minutes of me calling Meresa, she texted me all the information I needed to find a detachable ramp, Hill says. Shes just amazing.In addition to connecting people to services, DNWM provides physical tools to foster independence. Free laptops have enabled individuals to pursue adult education programs, explore distance learning, and help children complete their homework.These resources make a difference in peoples lives, Salisbury says. Its not just about meeting immediate needs; its about empowering people for the future.Salisbury is motivated to make a difference by her own experiences. Years ago, a surgery gone wrong left her using a walker in her mid-20s, giving her firsthand insight into the challenges people face when asking for help and advocating for themselves.That experience taught me how hard it is to navigate these systems and to even admit you need help, she says. It gives me a lot of empathy for the people I work with.Salisburys background in COVID-19 contact tracing also shaped her approach to the work.That role showed me how important it is to connect people to resources, she says. This job felt like a natural continuation of that mission.Since opening the office, DNWM has made community outreach a priority. Salisbury attends events throughout the county to raise awareness about the organizations services.At two events in Baldwin, the St. Ann Senior Center and the Baldwin schools resource night, weve been able to connect with individuals who might not have known about us otherwise, she says. Id say between 10 to 20 people per event reach out for help. It really shows the importance of being out in the community.One of the organizations goals is to help individuals gain independence and confidence. This often extends to entire families, as in the case of Hill, who cares for her husband and two teenage sons.I have mobility issues related to my cancer. My husband has dementia, COPD, and emphysema, Hill says. My 19-year-old is autistic and schizophrenic. Its a lot, but Meresa helps us navigate everything.Hill says the impact of Salisburys work has been immediate for her.Shes more than a guide, shes a lifeline, Hill says. Whether its finding someone to help with a broken well or making sure we have electricity, shes always there.Salisbury is working to make DNWM a well-known fixture in Lake County.Id love for people to walk in and immediately know who we are and what we do, she says.For more information, the Disability Network West Michigan office in Lake County is located at Michigan Works, 5252 M-37, Baldwin. Salisbury encourages residents to stop by or reach out for assistance.She is working with colleague Danielle Bennett, youth transition specialist at DNWM, who has been instrumental in building connections with Baldwin schools and local youth.Bennett focuses on providing life skills and recreational opportunities that are inclusive for all. Upcoming events she's planning include a soap-making workshop in Baldwin. These activities are designed to engage and empower youth with accessible, fun and educational experiences, she says.Its about listening, Salisbury says. Were here to support the community, encourage self-confidence, and help people pursue their goals for independence.This series is made possible through a partnership with Centers for Independent Living organizations across West Michigan. AI-driven cybersecurity specialist Smarttech247 updated the market on its results for the financial year ended 31 July on Monday, reporting that it expected to report revenue exceeding 13m, reflecting year-on-year growth of over 8%. The AIM-traded firm said adjusted EBITDA was projected to surpass 1.3m, while adjusted operating profit was set to exceed 0.75m. As of 31 July, unaudited cash stood at 3.3m. The board said a highlight of the financial year was a 50% increase in annual recurring revenue (ARR), which now accounted for about 60% of total revenue, amid a focus on building sustainable income streams. Additionally, Smarttech247 said it achieved a 100% client retention rate for its managed detection and response (MDR) services, demonstrating the quality and reliability of its offerings. Throughout the year, the company said it made significant investments in research and development, sales expansion, and its Romanian operations to support MDR services. Those initiatives helped secure major customer contracts in sectors such as packaging, financial services, and pharmaceuticals. The sales pipeline also showed substantial growth compared to the prior year, the board said, positioning the company for future expansion. Strategic partnerships played a key role, it added, with agreements signed with leading industry players including Cisco, Google, AWS, and Splunk. The alliances enhanced the companys platform capabilities and customer reach. Additionally, the company said it expanded its geographical footprint into the Middle East and Switzerland, further bolstering growth opportunities. Smarttech247 noted that it was also recognised in the Gartner Market Guide for Managed Detection and Response for 2024, marking a notable industry endorsement. Its full audited results and further strategic updates were expected to be published later in January. As we continue to expand and strengthen our operations, our focus remains on long-term, sustainable growth, said chief executive officer Raluca Saceanu. Our revenue and ARR continue to grow and our current pipeline is strong. Saceanu said the strategic investments the company made in the year were critical for supporting its future ambitions, and ensuring that the firm was positioned to capitalise on significant industry opportunities and demand for its products. We continue to be incredibly excited about the future of our business. At 0944 GMT, shares in Smarttech247 Group were up 15.58% at 9.82p. Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com. At 4:28 p.m. on January 5, 2025, at the Huangshanbei High-speed Railway Station in Anhui Province, the G99 high-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao departed on time from Platform 7 of Huangshanbei Station. The train's ultimate destination was West Kowloon in Hong Kong, arriving there at 9:56 p.m. that same evening. It was reported that this marked the first direct high-speed train from Huangshanbei to West Kowloon following the railway schedule adjustment that took effect at midnight on January 5th. The G99 high-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao to West Kowloon, along with the return trip G100 from West Kowloon to Shanghai Hongqiao, stops at Huangshanbei. The total journey time from Huangshanbei to West Kowloon is approximately 5 and a half hours. The G99 high-speed train departs from Shanghai Hongqiao station at 13:53, passing through Suzhounan and Hangzhouxi, and leaves Huangshanbei Station at 16:28, arriving at West Kowloon Station at 21:56 on the same day. The G100 high-speed train departs from West Kowloon Station at 11:37 and arrives at Huangshanbei Station at 17:06 on the same day. In the future, travelers can enjoy lunch in Huangshan and then take the high-speed train to Hong Kong, where they can have a late-night snack the same evening. When departing from West Kowloon, they can opt to have lunch beforehand or on the train itself, and by evening, they can savor Huizhou delicacies such as stinky mandarin fish and hairy tofu by the beautiful Xin'an River in Huangshan City. Previously, Huangshan City already had direct flights to Hong Kong. With the launch of the direct high-speed train service, travel between Huangshan and Hong Kong has become even more convenient. Passengers now have more choices regarding their mode of transportation and departure times. Industry insiders in Huangshan's culture and tourism sector believe that the smooth flow of transportation will significantly benefit the further development of Huangshan City's inbound tourism market. It also makes it more convenient for passengers along the high-speed train route to visit Huangshan City, increasing their opportunities to explore the area. Clearly, travel from Huangshan to Hong Kong has also become much more convenient. Source: Da Wan News KYODO NEWS - Jan 6, 2025 - 20:58 | All, Japan A town in Japan's northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido experienced a massive sardine beaching in late December but has struggled to find a company to dispose of the fish due to the New Year holidays, town officials said Monday. Residents are concerned about hygienic conditions as more than a week has passed since the town of Matsumae was alerted to the sardine beaching on Dec. 28, which spanned approximately 900 meters of a beach along the Sea of Japan. The cause of the incident has yet to be determined. "They're starting to rot. The smell isn't bad yet because the temperatures are low, but I hope they dispose of them soon," a female resident said. The fish may have been forced to the shore due to a sudden drop in water temperatures, according to the Hakodate Fisheries Research Institute at the Hokkaido Research Organization. The town said it experienced a similar sardine beaching in December 2021, resulting in the disposal of about 24 tons of fish. Microsoft revealed plans to invest $80bn in AI-enabled data centres during its 2025 financial year on Monday, marking a substantial increase from its $53bn capital expenditure in 2023. The company disclosed the initiative in a blog post by president Brad Smith, who also urged the US to enhance its efforts to ensure global adoption of American AI technology over Chinese alternatives. Smith said the investment underscored Microsoft's commitment to advancing AI infrastructure, which he described as essential for innovation. More than half of the funding would focus on US-based facilities. The expansion aligned with Microsoft's partnerships with AI firms like OpenAI, Anthropic and xAI, all of which rely on vast computational resources to develop and deploy advanced AI models. Microsofts data centre footprint had already grown significantly, with over 5GW of capacity in 2023 and plans to add 1.5GW by mid-2025. Despite that, reports indicated that OpenAI was exploring partnerships with other providers as demand outpaced Microsofts capacity. The companies were also rumored to be planning a 5GW data centre, codenamed Stargate, projected for completion by 2028, according to Data Center Dynamics. In his blog post, Smith emphasised the need for the United States to counter Chinas strategy of subsidising AI infrastructure in developing countries, likening it to Chinas dominance in telecommunications through companies like Huawei. He warned that China's efforts to establish AI platforms in emerging markets could result in long-term reliance on Chinese systems. To maintain a competitive edge, Smith advocated for US AI systems to be housed in secure, state-of-the-art data centres, promoted as superior alternatives. He called for swift, coordinated action by the US government and its allies to ensure American leadership in AI technology. At 0728 EDT (1228 GMT), shares in Microsoft Corporation were up 0.83% in premarket trading in New York, at $426.86. Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com. Nippon Steel and US Steel have filed a federal lawsuit in the United States, it emerged on Monday, contesting the Biden administration's decision to block a proposed $15bn acquisition of US Steel by the Japanese steelmaker. The lawsuit, submitted to the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, alleged that the decision was politically motivated and violated the companies' due process rights. According to the Independent, the Biden administration's move was the first instance of a US president blocking a merger between an American and a Japanese firm. The decision, announced after the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) failed to reach consensus on the deal, underscored concerns about national security. In a statement, president Biden emphasised the importance of a robust domestic steel industry, stating that without domestic steel production and domestic steel workers, our nation is less strong and less secure. Nippon Steel had pledged significant investments as part of the acquisition, including $2.7bn to modernize US Steel's aging blast furnace facilities in Indiana and Pennsylvania. The company also assured it would maintain current production capacity stateside for at least a decade, subject to government oversight. Despite those commitments, the administration still blocked the deal, citing national security priorities. While officials denied that the decision reflected broader tensions between Tokyo and Washington, the move came as president Biden prepared to leave office in the coming weeks. Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com. The chief executives of FTSE 100 companies will have made more money in 2025 by midday on Monday than their average worker does in a whole year, according to the latest measure of inequality between bosses and their employees. Median pay for FTSE 100 chief executives is 4.22m, 113 times the median full-time workers pay of 37,430, according to the High Pay Centre, a campaign group. That means UK bosses will exceed their workers annual pay within 29 hours or at about 11:30am on Monday, if they started work straight after the new year holiday. Guardian Labour must offer extra support to working parents, including with childcare and commuting, if it is to fulfil its promise of cutting child poverty, the Resolution Foundation thinktank has argued. The governments manifesto promised an ambitious strategy on child poverty, and ministers have said they will publish a 10-year plan in the spring. Guardian Barclays has been criticised for paying mystery shoppers to pretend to be blind or deaf in an attempt to test the response of branch staff. The National Federation of the Blind of the UK (NFBUK), which campaigns for blind and partially sighted people, said the banks stunt was an insult to blind people and totally inappropriate. Telegraph Business fears over taxation have hit a record high in the wake of Rachel Reevess devastating Budget, according to a new survey by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC). Almost 63pc of businesses said they were concerned about the tax burden, findings show, up from 48pc three months ago and a higher proportion than ever before. Telegraph The competition between Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk, the billionaire technology tycoons, is set to intensify after Amazon signalled it could start a satellite-based high-speed broadband service in the UK as early as this year. The move by Amazon, which was disclosed in filings by the American tech company with Ofcom, Britains communications regulator, would help Bezos make up ground against Musks Starlink service, which started launching satellites in 2019 and now has more than 6,700 in orbit. The Times Agrochemical firm Crystal Crop Protection has acquired the herbicide active ingredient Ethoxysulfuron from Germanys Bayer AG, marking its 13th strategic acquisition. The deal, announced, includes Bayers 'Sunrice' trademark and related mixture products, along with all necessary registrations, allowing sales in select Asian markets. The herbicide is widely used for controlling broad-leaved weeds and sedges in rice and cereal crops. Crystal Crop Managing Director Ankur Aggarwal stated that the acquisition is expected to boost the companys earnings by 20%, leveraging its strong distribution network and local manufacturing capabilities to deliver cost-effective solutions to farmers across India, South Asia, and South-East Asia. Target markets include India, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Thailand, and Pakistan. This marks Crystals second purchase from Bayer, following its 2021 acquisition of Bayers Indian seed portfolio for cotton, pearl millet, and mustard. Earlier in 2024, Crystal acquired I&B Seeds, further strengthening its presence in crop protection, seeds, and farm mechanization. The Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) celebrated its 40th Foundation Day at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, marking a momentous occasion for Indias scientific and industrial advancements. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and other portfolios, addressed the gathering, highlighting the nations significant strides in research and innovation under DSIR and the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). During the event, Dr. Singh announced the development of an indigenous technology for manufacturing paracetamol, a widely used drug for pain relief and fever reduction. Developed by CSIR, this breakthrough aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' vision, aiming to make India self-reliant in pharmaceutical production. By reducing dependence on imported raw materials, this innovation is set to bolster domestic manufacturing capabilities. Karnataka-based Satya Deeptha Pharmaceuticals Ltd will utilize the technology to produce affordable paracetamol, ensuring its availability to consumers at competitive prices. The Foundation Day celebration also saw the transfer of 16 new technologies, nine from CSIR-CSIO Chennai and six from CSIR-CEERI Pilani, under the 100 Days 100 Technologies campaign. These innovations include advancements in IoT-enabled industrial instruments and healthcare technologies, further promoting the synergy between research institutions and industry. With these transfers, a total of 57 technologies have been shared with MSME units registered with LAGHU UDYOG BHARATI, an organization representing over 60,000 MSMEs across the country. Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between CSIR-CSIO and ELCIA (Electronics City Industries Association), Bengaluru, for collaborative sensor development. Dr. Singh reflected on the contributions of DSIR over the past four decades and the history of CSIR as a pioneering organization in Indias scientific and industrial progress. He emphasized the importance of fostering collaborations between government, industry, and non-government sectors to scale up innovation. He highlighted the success of initiatives such as 'One Week One Theme' (OWOT) and 'One Week One Lab' (OWOL), which were introduced to streamline research efforts and promote resource sharing. The minister underscored the significant progress India has made in technological prowess, attributing it to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He praised the governments initiatives since 2014 that have prioritized innovation and entrepreneurship, breaking traditional barriers to collaboration. The success in the space sector, including startups launching satellites from Sriharikota, was cited as a testament to this shift. He also acknowledged ISROs recent SPADEX (Space Docking Exercise) mission, which established India as one of the few nations to achieve this advanced capability. Dr. Singh recalled several key achievements in science and technology, including the development of Indias first indigenously produced antibiotic, Nafithromycin, and the successful trial of gene therapy for treating hemophilia. He also commended CSIRs efforts in developing innovations like the 108-petal lotus, hydrogen-powered buses, biofuels, and the Aroma Mission, which promoted lavender cultivation and gained recognition during the Republic Day celebrations. The minister urged the scientific community to explore non-government funding and strengthen knowledge partnerships to sustain the momentum of innovation. He highlighted the Anusandhan NRF initiative, where 60% of funds are raised from non-government sectors, as a step in this direction. Reaffirming the governments commitment to science and technology, he assured the audience that 2025 would witness even greater advancements in the field. Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary of DSIR and Director General of CSIR, recalled the signing of the Guwahati Science Declaration, which aims to position India as a global economic hub by 2047. Prof. A.K. Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, emphasized the need for India to transition from a service economy to a product-based economy driven by indigenous designs and technology. He highlighted the role of technology in contributing significantly to economic growth, drawing parallels with the U.S., where 9% of GDP is derived from the tech sector. German luxury carmaker Mercedes-Benz has announced the appointment of Emrah Ozer as its Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for India, effective January 1, 2025. This leadership change comes as part of an organizational restructuring in the companys finance and controlling functions. Ozer, currently serving as a Member of the Board of Management and Head of Finance & Controlling at Mercedes-Benz Otomotiv Turkey, will soon join the Board of Mercedes-Benz India as Executive Director. He takes over the CFO role from Evren Cakabey, who has assumed the position of Executive Director & CFO at Mercedes-Benz G GmbH, Austria, effective the same date. Santosh Iyer, Managing Director & CEO of Mercedes-Benz India, expressed confidence in Ozer's extensive international financial expertise and leadership experience. We are confident that Emrah, with his proven track record in managing global finance and business strategies, will propel Mercedes-Benzs growth in India, Iyer said. With over two decades of experience, Ozer has successfully handled diverse stakeholders, including banks, governments, and investors. He has played key roles at Mercedes-AMG, Mercedes-Benz AG, and Smart, overseeing financial operations across India and the NAFTA region. Ozer began his career in the Finance & Controlling department at Smart GmbH, Stuttgart, in 2002 and later became Head of Project Controlling for India & NAFTA in 2008. This appointment underscores Mercedes-Benzs commitment to leveraging global expertise to strengthen its operations in India. India Global Forum is pleased to announce that Oliver Kaye, former Chief Business Officer of Lenskart India, has joined as Chief Business Officer and CEO of the UK India Future Forum (UKIFF). In this dual role, Oliver will lead the group's business strategy and growth initiatives. A specialist in scaling start-ups, Kaye played a key role in Lenskart's growth, helping increase its valuation from $300M to $4.5B. He also launched GAP India as its CEO. With over 25 years of leadership experience in top retail brands, Kaye has held significant positions at Tesco, including Head of Retail Operations for Europe and Head of Strategy for General Merchandise. He also led Calvin Klein's entry into India as CEO. Kaye will also spearhead the UK India Future Forum, a flagship initiative of India Global Forum (IGF) that facilitates high-level engagement between business leaders and policy makers within the UK-India corridor. He will work closely with William Carne, Director of UKIFF, to deepen UK-India ties and foster collaboration and innovation between India and the global business. Manoj Ladwa, Founder and Chairman of India Global Forum, commented on the appointment: "Oliver joins us at an exciting juncture as we embark on the next phase of our growth. He brings a wealth of expertise in operational excellence, seamless market expansions and strategic innovation, and his vast experience in growing businesses will be pivotal as our Group scales its integrated global affairs and media platform combining world-class online and offline events with next-generation media content". On his new role Oliver Kaye said, "IGF is a catalyst for innovation and growth, and I'm excited to contribute to its mission of shaping the future of global business and leadership. Having witnessed India's remarkable growth and potential firsthand over the past decade, I look forward to contributing to IGF's mission of driving change, fostering collaboration, and shaping strategies that positively impact businesses and communities worldwide". Kaye's appointment is the latest key addition to India Global Forum's leadership, following the recent hiring of Uday Karan Verma, former Country Manager at BBC, as President of Business Relations in 2024. Raj Salwan became Fremonts first Indian-American mayor. He focused on homelessness, public safety, infrastructure and sustainability and was committed to improving the city's future. Raj Salwan made history as Fremonts first Indian American mayor, taking the oath of office at a ceremony held at City Hall on December 10. His father swore him in, marking a significant milestone for the diverse city in Northern California. His mother, wife and other family members attended the ceremony, along with a packed hall of Indian Americans and local supporters. Reflecting on his familys immigrant journey, Salwan expressed his commitment to addressing the city's pressing challenges while continuing to build on Fremonts legacy of resilience and progress. In his inaugural address, he described Fremont as a city built on hope and hard work, noting the resilience and determination of its people to create a brighter future. Salwan won the November 5 election with 47 percent of the vote. He succeeded Lily Mei, who had reached her term limit after serving two consecutive four-year terms. During his campaign, Salwan focused on key issues, including homelessness, public safety, traffic solutions, infrastructure improvements and climate change. He earned widespread endorsements from labor groups and business leaders across the region. With more than eight years of experience on the Fremont City Council, Salwan was no stranger to local governance. He first joined the council in 2013, gaining recognition for his active involvement in important city initiatives. Throughout his tenure, he developed a reputation as a dedicated public servant committed to addressing the needs of Fremont residents. Salwan, who grew up in the city, had previously served in various capacities, including as a Human Relations Commissioner, Planning Commissioner, Fremont Councilmember and Vice Mayor. His experience in city government spanned over 18 years. Salwan has long been proud of his achievement in the American dream. He was committed to giving back to the community that had provided so much for him, to make Fremont a better place to live, work and raise families. He also represented the city on the Alameda County Transportation Commission. He served as the First Vice Chairperson for the California League of Cities East Bay Division, covering Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. Beyond his work in local governance, Salwan has also contributed to various commissions, non-profit boards and regional agencies. His leadership role as a subcommittee member of the joint City Council-School District Liaison Committee helped support Fremonts schools' continued success. Salwans vision for the city included progress while preserving its rich cultural heritage and fostering a strong sense of community. He aimed to create a diverse city with cutting-edge infrastructure, greater housing affordability, expanded public safety resources and thriving local businesses. He studied biological sciences at the University of California, Irvine, and later earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at the Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine. With his extensive experience on the City Council and deep-rooted commitment to improving the lives of Fremont residents, Salwan is poised to lead the city through its challenges and opportunities. As mayor, Salwans leadership promises to continue shaping Fremont into a model of progress, unity and innovation. KYODO NEWS - Jan 6, 2025 - 14:43 | Arts, All, Japan, World Critically acclaimed production "Shogun" won the best TV drama series award at the Golden Globes on Sunday, picking up another accolade following its record total of 18 Emmy awards last fall. Japanese actor Hiroyuki Sanada, 64, also won the award for best actor in a television drama, Anna Sawai, 32, the corresponding award for best actress, and Tadanobu Asano, 51, for best supporting actor. "I'd love to say thank you for everyone who has been in my life, all of you who have brought me here," Sanada said during the ceremony, earning further recognition for his performance as Yoshii Toranaga, a warlord based on the historical Japanese figure Tokugawa Ieyasu. "I'd like to say for the young actors and creators in the world, please be yourself, believe in yourself and never give up," said Sanada, who has acted in films such as the prizewinning Japanese film "The Twilight Samurai" and the Hollywood movie "The Last Samurai." Sanada, also the show's producer, explained that it was a "gamble" to produce a drama series that consisted of 70 percent Japanese dialogue and subtitles. But ultimately it managed to "break the wall of the language," he said, saying its success meant "filmmakers and actors all over the world are getting (a) big chance." Sanada said he started his career as a child in Japan when he was 5 years old and came to Hollywood about 40 years later, spending many years working with great filmmakers and actors. "I put all my experience in my life...into 'Shogun,' and 'Shogun' brought me here and it's amazing. It was a great journey for me," he said. Asano, who played a samurai in the show, said when asked to give a message to young actors in Japan during a press conference, "If I can do this, you all can definitely do this. So, if you have any hopes or dreams, just go for it." Sawai won the award for her portrayal of Toda Mariko, an interpreter in Toranaga's samurai clan for an out-of-place English navigator. "Thank you to the voters for voting for me...Thank you to your incredible writers. Without their good script, it's impossible to give our performance to our fullest, full potential," she said at the ceremony. Sanada and Sawai each won at last year's Emmy awards for their respective performances as lead actor and lead actress in the series. Set in 1600 Japan at the end of the warring states period, "Shogun" is a remake of a 1980 miniseries based on a 1975 novel, all bearing the same title. The earlier TV series won three awards at the 1981 Golden Globes -- best drama, best actress and best actor. The latest incarnation of "Shogun" won 18 Emmy awards in September, the most ever received for a single season of a TV series. Related coverage: "Shogun" stars recognized with Golden Globe award nominations Emmy-winning actor Anna Sawai among Time's 100 next-generation leaders "Shogun" stars Sanada, Sawai win 1st lead actor Emmys for Japan STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Party City is putting all 695 of its recently shuttered locations up for auction including dozens of stores in New York and New Jersey. Turn-key spaces ready for immediate occupancy, strategically located in established retail corridors [with] favorable lease terms [and] opportunities in both urban and suburban retail markets, noted a public auction listing published by A&G Real Estate Partners, the real estate adviser to Party City that is conducting the auction. Calling each site a sought-after retail location, A&G noted in a press release that the bid deadline and auction would likely be in early February. This is a large and diverse store portfolio, with good real estate and a great many stores located in high-traffic shopping centers, Emilio Amendola, co-president of A&G, said in the release. This auction represents an extraordinary opportunity for expanding operators in what marks the end of an era in the retail industry. The auction announcement comes weeks after Party City terminated all corporate employees and noted that it would wind down operations and permanently close all its stores after nearly 40 years in business. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in January 2023 and planned an expedited restructuring. The brand then closed dozens of stores including the Party City located in The Boulevard Shopping Center in New Dorp. Closures have persisted over the past several months, and the Party City in Port Richmond, now plastered with closing and liquidation signs, was a part of those cuts. One other Staten Island Party City remains, located on Richmond Avenue in New Springville. An employee who answered the phone at that location said he was told that store will remain open until late February. The chain once operated 823 retail sites. According to the press release, 46 stores will be auctioned in New York, 26 in New Jersey. New York City public school students had an additional day off during winter break this school year and the same could happen again next year. Schools were closed on Monday, Dec. 23, which was previously a school day on the calendar. The additional day off during recess allowed families more time for travel and vacation. Students returned to classes this year after break on Thursday, Jan. 2. Looking ahead to next school years calendar has some wondering if New York City will again give an additional day off to students for winter break. Schools will be closed from Dec. 24-Jan. 1, according to the 2025-2025 school calendar. Classes are slated to resume on Jan. 2 which means students would return to classes for one day that week. According to Chalkbeat, the last time that Jan. 2 was on a Friday was in 2015, and it was a day off for students. Education officials told the media outlet that they currently have no plans to change the 2025-2026 calendar, but would continue to engage with stakeholders. If the city added Jan. 2 as another day off, officials would have to make sure it still meets the states 180-day school year requirement. You can go here for more key dates for the 2025-2026 public school calendar. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Richmond University Medical Center (RUMC) welcomed local leaders, healthcare professionals, and members of the community as the hospital officially unveiled its new Womens Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology on Dec. 18. The new center is located inside the South Shore Commons Shopping Center at 2935 Veterans Road West in Charleston. The center features a spa like atmosphere with spacious exam suites equipped with the latest technology, private consultation rooms, and a comfortable waiting and reception area. The center is also home to a specially designed, fully equipped in-office procedure room, which provides a sterile and convenient location for patients to have minimally invasive procedures performed on-site. This beautiful new space is not just a medical office; its a sanctuary for women to feel supported and cared for during every stage of life, said RUMC President and Chief Executive Officer, Daniel J. Messina, PhD, FACHE. Dr. Tubman and her team are true leaders in their field, and we are proud to expand our services to the South Shore community. The center will be the primary office for Inna Tubman, MD, whose previous office was located at 4360 Hylan Blvd. Dr. Tubman has been a practicing board certified OBGYN physician since 2006. Dr. Tubman will be joined in the new center by several of her colleagues, providing a wide range of OBGYN services, including routine examinations, cancer screenings, menopause management and infertility care, among others. This new office allows us to provide exceptional care in a setting that prioritizes patient comfort and well-being, Dr. Tubman said. Im thrilled to continue serving my patients in this beautiful facility and couldnt do it without the help of my incredible team. In attendance at the ribbon cutting ceremony was RUMC Board of Trustees Chair Timothy C. Harrison, RUMC Foundation Chair Bobby Urs, Dr. Ginny Mantello, Director of Health and Wellness for the Office of Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella and James Clinton from the office of Richmond County District Attorney Michael McMahon, among others. The new center is part of the Richmond Health Network, an affiliate of Richmond University Medical Center. The Richmond Health Network was launched in 2020, providing Staten Islanders with improved access to quality primary care and specialty medical services through private offices and centers across the borough. The Network offices also provide immediate referrals to the full services of Richmond University Medical Center. Since its inception, the network has grown to over 20 locations and now also has offices in Brooklyn and Manhattan. To make an appointment, call 718-818-4361. Most insurances are accepted and new patients are welcome. The new Obstetrics and Gynecology Center in the Charleston section of Staten Island. The new center is located in the South Shore Commons shopping center at 2935 Veterans Road West in Charleston. Exam rooms are designed with a spa-like feel for comfort and privacy and features larger waiting areas with televisions and easily accessible reception desk. (Courtesy RUMC)Courtesy RUMC The new Obstetrics and Gynecology Center in the Charleston section of Staten Island. The new center is located in the South Shore Commons shopping center at 2935 Veterans Road West in Charleston. Exam rooms are designed with a spa-like feel for comfort and privacy and features larger waiting areas with televisions and easily accessible reception desk. (Courtesy RUMC)Courtesy RUMC Pictured are (l-r): Robert Urs, RUMC Foundation President, Dr. Inna Tubman (center), and Tim Harrison, RUMC board chairman, at the official opening of the new Obstetrics and Gynecology Center in the Charleston section of Staten Island.(Courtesy RUMC)RUMC Dr. Inna Tubman, RUMC and Richmond Health Network leadership officially open the new Obstetrics and Gynecology Center in the Charleston section of Staten Island. The new center is located in the South Shore Commons shopping center at 2935 Veterans Road West in Charleston.mExam rooms are designed with a spa-like feel for comfort and privacy and features larger waiting areas with televisions and easily accessible reception desk. (Courtesy RUMC)RUMC Dr. Inna Tubman, RUMC and Richmond Health Network leadership officially open the new Obstetrics and Gynecology Center in the Charleston section of Staten Island. The new center is located in the South Shore Commons shopping center at 2935 Veterans Road West in Charleston.mExam rooms are designed with a spa-like feel for comfort and privacy and features larger waiting areas with televisions and easily accessible reception desk. (Courtesy RUMC)RUMC RUMC chairman of the board Tim Harrison speaks at the opening of Obstetrics and Gynecology Center in the Charleston section of Staten Island. The new center is located in the South Shore Commons shopping center at 2935 Veterans Road West in Charleston.mExam rooms are designed with a spa-like feel for comfort and privacy and features larger waiting areas with televisions and easily accessible reception desk. (Courtesy RUMC)RUMC Will TikTok be banned this month? Thats the pressing question keeping creators and small business owners in anxious limbo as they await a decision that could upend their livelihoods. The fate of the popular app will be decided by the Supreme Court, which will hear arguments on Jan. 10 over a law requiring TikTok to break ties with its Chinese-based parent company, ByteDance, or face a U.S. ban. At the heart of the case is whether the law violates the First Amendment with TikTok and its creator allies arguing that it does. The U.S. government, which sees the platform as a national security risk, says it does not. For creators, the TikTok doomsday scenarios are nothing new since President-elect Donald Trump first tried to ban the platform through executive order during his first term. But despite Trumps recent statements indicating he now wants TikTok to stick around, the prospect of a ban has never been as immediate as it is now with the Supreme Court serving as the final arbiter. If the government prevails as it did in a lower court, TikTok says it would shut down its U.S. platform by Jan. 19, leaving creators scrambling to redefine their futures. A lot of my other creative friends, were all like freaking out. But Im staying calm, said Gillian Johnson, who benefited financially from TikToks live feature and rewards program, which helped creators generate higher revenue potential by posting high-quality original content. The 22-year-old filmmaker and recent college graduate uses her TikTok earnings to help fund her equipment for projects such as camera lens and editing software for her short films Gambit and Awaken! My Neighbor. Johnson said the idea of TikTok going away is hard to accept. Many creators have taken to TikTok to voice their frustrations, grappling with the possibility that the platform theyve invested so much in could soon disappear. Online communities risk being disrupted, and the economic fallout could especially be devastating for those who mainly depend on TikTok and have left full-time jobs to build careers and incomes around their content. For some, the uncertainty has led them to question whether to continue creating content at all, according to Johnson, who says she knows creators who have been thinking about quitting. But Nicla Bartoli, the vice president of sales at The Influencer Marketing Factory, said the creators she has interreacted with have not been too worried since news about a potential TikTok ban has come up repeatedly over the years, and then died down. I believe a good chunk think it is not going to happen, said Bartoli, whose agency works to pair influencers and brands. Its unclear how quickly the Supreme Court will issue a decision. But the court could act swiftly to block the law from going into effect if at least five of the nine justices deem it unconstitutional. Trump, for his part, has already asked the justices to put a pause on the ban so he could weigh in after he takes office. In a brief written by his pick for solicitor general Trump called the First Amendment implications of a TikTok ban sweeping and troubling and said he wants a negotiated resolution to the issue, something the Biden administration had pursued to no avail. While waiting for the dust to settle in Washington, some creators are exploring alternatives ways to promote themselves or their business, encouraging users to follow them on other social media platforms or are investing more time producing non-TikTok content. Johnson says she is already strategizing her next move and exploring alternative opportunities. While she hasnt found a place quite like TikTok, shes begun to spend more of her time on other platforms, such as Instagram and YouTube, both of whom are expected to benefit financially if TikTok vanishes. According to a report by Goldman Sachs, the so-called creator economy, which has been fueled in part by TikTok, could be worth $480 billion by 2027. Because the opportunity to monetize content exists across a range of platforms, a vast amount of creators have already diversified their social media presence. However, many TikTok creators have credited the platform and its algorithm with giving them a type of exposure they did not receive on other platforms. Some say it has also boosted and provided opportunities for creators of color and those from other marginalized groups. Despite fears about the fate of TikTok, industry analysts note creators are generally avoiding making any big changes, like abandoning platform, until something actually happens. Im anxious but also trying to be hopeful in a weird way, said Brandon Hurst, who credits TikTok with rescuing his business from obscurity and propelling it into rapid growth. A year after joining TikTok, the 30-year-old Hurst, who sells plants, said his sales doubled, outpacing the traction hed struggled to gain on Instagram. He built his clientele through the live feature on TikTok, which has helped him sell more than 77,000 plants. The business has thrived so much that he says he now employs five people, including his husband and mom. For me, this has been my sole way of doing business, Hurst said. Billion Dollar Boy, a New York-based influencer marketing agency, has advised creators to download all of their TikTok content into a personal portfolio, which is especially important for those who post primarily on the platform, said Edward East, the agencys founder and group CEO. This can help them quickly build their audiences elsewhere. Plus it can serve as a resume for brands who might want to partner with them for product advertisements, East said. But until the deadline of Jan. 19 comes around, East said creators should continue to post regularly on TikTok, which has 170 million monthly U.S. users and remains highly effective in reaching audiences. If the Supreme Court does not delay the ban, as Trump is asking them to do, app stores and internet service providers would be required to stop providing service to TikTok by Jan. 19. That means anyone who doesnt have TikTok on their phone would be unable to download it. TikTok users would continue to have access, but the prohibitions which will prevent them from updating the app will eventually make the app unworkable, the Justice Department has said. TikTok said in court documents that it estimates a one-month shutdown would cause the platform to lose approximately a third of its daily users in the U.S. The company argues a shutdown, even if temporary, will cause it irreparable harm, a legal bar used by judges to determine whether to put the brakes on a law facing a challenge. In under three weeks, Americans will know if the Supreme Court agrees. Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen, the fine-dining restaurant from James Beard Award-winning chef Chris Cannon in Morristown, has closed. The restaurant announced the news on its Instagram page Thursday. Cannon cited a shift in dining habits since the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as a failed sale of the restaurant, for the closure. New Years Eve was the eaterys last night of business. Since the COVID pandemic, significant changes in consumer behavior, labor and cost increases across the board have made operating and producing the high quality product we have been known for, increasingly difficult, Cannon said in the Instagram post. We had sought to find a buyer for the restaurant this past year and a deal was in place to take effect in December. The purchaser backed out at the eleventh hour and we find ourselves with no choice but to say goodbye. READ MORE: 25 popular New Jersey restaurants that closed in 2024 Jockey Hollow opened in 2014, located inside the historic century-old Vail Mansion, a massive estate that looms over Morristown and made for an impressive dining setting. While some restaurants skate by on ambiance alone, Jockey Hollows cuisine was worthy of its posh environ a restaurant that found a way to make fine-dining approachable even for neophyte foodies. Cannons eatery mastered everything from smash burgers and street tacos to squid ink pappardelle and prime filet mignon, helping it earn the No. 5 spot on NJ.coms list of the best restaurants in Morristown. The restaurant closed temporarily in Nov. 2020 during the pandemic as business dwindled before reopening in 2021. But even as restaurants returned to full-fledged dining in earnest that year, Cannon started to see changes in how New Jerseyans were eating. People were dining out less frequently, and not dining out as late as they once did. Everyone was in a cocoon for two years, they just dont go out to eat as late as they they used to. I mean, no one goes out after eight oclock, Cannon told NJ Advance Media. A place like Morristown, in the summer its like a ghost town, much more so than usual. When you lose all the business after eight oclock, thats a good 20% of your business. Cannon said paying staff higher wages to return to work after COVID added to Jockey Hollows struggles. The rise of prepared foods at grocery stores plus delivery services like GrubHub and Uber Eats also created more competition for the restaurant. The chef further opined it may be the middle of the pack, fancy-but-not-too-fancy restaurants that struggle to survive in 2025. Fast-casual is nipping at our behinds, but the ultra-luxury restaurants are still doing fine in New York City because they charge 350 bucks a person, Cannon said. It seems to me that the restaurant industry is going to kind of lose a lot of that middle tier. Cannon and Jockey Hollow had worked on a deal for another ownership group to take over Jockey Hollow, but it fell apart at the last minute. The people that were buying had opened a restaurant in August, and it was doing terribly, Cannon said. So they walked out. Related coverage: Popular Jersey Shore bar ravaged by flooding is closed for good Last call as another N.J. brew pub shuts down New Jerseys 25 best restaurants of 2024, ranked 51 New Jersey dishes you need to try in 2025 Ricardo Torres-Cortez Las Vegas Review-Journal via Tribune News Service LAS VEGAS After Wednesdays attack in which a white pickup truck sped down New Orleans iconic Bourbon Street, killing 14 people, locals and visitors might wonder what security measures are in place to prevent a similar horrific situation from unfolding on the Las Vegas Strip. Following vehicular terrorist attacks around the world and a Strip car ramming that injured three-dozen pedestrians in December 2015, Clark County moved to make the tourist corridor safer by installing thousands of steel posts that dot Las Vegas Boulevard. In 2018, the county began installing 6,000 bollards along the Strip, at a cost of about $40 million so far. Each weighs more than half a ton and is able to withstand a head-on collision from a 15,000-pound vehicle traveling 50 mph, according to officials. They are also there to prevent vehicles from jumping onto the sidewalks on any given day. As new development comes to the resort corridor, any plans that alter the current pedestrian protection will be required to include pedestrian protection measures in their design, a Clark County spokesperson said in an email Friday. Unlike Las Vegas bollards, New Orleans are removable, according to the Associated Press. Some were being replaced at the time of the attack, leaving security gaps. Then, hours after the French Quarter attack, a Cybertruck carrying fireworks and fuel detonated outside Las Vegas Trump International hotel, according to the Metropolitan Police Department, prompting initial concerns that the Cybertruck blast had been a possible terrorist attack. The Tesla vehicles lone occupant, Matthew Livelsberger, 37, had fatally shot himself in the head. Sheriff Kevin McMahill said investigators believe the detonation and suicide were simultaneous. Police were investigating a letter Livelsberger purportedly sent in which he said his actions werent a terrorist attack, but a wake up call. Seven other people suffered minor injuries in the blast. In hours and days after the two incidents, FBI officials said New Orleans attacker, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, had acted alone and aligned himself with the Islamic State group, and that there didnt appear to be any evidence of any link between that attack and the Cybertruck blast. Authorities also said they hadnt seen any evidence of a connection between Livelsberger and a terrorist organization. Amanda Bellarmino, an assistant professor at UNLVs William F. Harrah College of Hospitality, said making the resorts even safer is a challenge that executives should continually address. Guests should also pay attention to things that dont seem normal, she said. Hotels and casinos should definitely have contingency plans for terrorist attacks, and most probably do, Bellarmino wrote in an email to the Las Vegas Review-Journal. She added: I believe that we are still a very safe destination, but the world is not a safe place. All of us should be cautious and report anything we see that is suspicious. Before police disclosed Livelsbergers purported letter, Bellarmino said: I think that the Cybertruck incident implies that the driver was unable to drive into the crowds as our city had the proper precautions to prevent him from driving into the crowds on the Strip. During New Years Eve festivities each year, a portion of Las Vegas Boulevard is closed to vehicular traffic as tens of thousands of people descend on the Strip. Thousands more revelers ring in the new year at downtown Las Vegas Fremont Street Experience, where roads that intersect with the canopy are also closed. Metro and its local, state and federal law enforcement partners guard the celebrations with a plethora of staff and technology, and officials said they expected more than 400,000 people to come out for New Years celebrations on the Strip and in downtown Las Vegas. Las Vegas spokesperson Jace Radke said the city did not want to disclose specific details about its security precautions for obvious reasons. He noted, however, that the city has increased safety improvements like large concrete bollards at pedestrian areas. Councilwoman Victoria Seaman told The Las Vegas Review-Journal Friday that shes confident with Metros and the citys department of public safety preparations for special events. Unfortunately, other events, such as the current tragedy in New Orleans and the Trump hotel, can teach us more about prevention, she said in a statement. I believe that elected officials and law enforcement can work diligently together to continue to keep our city safe. Seaman said she would rather see officials be proactive instead of reactive. The county took action after Paris Morton previously known as Lakeisha Holloway drove onto a sidewalk in front of Paris Las Vegas and Planet Hollywood Resort days before Christmas 2015, killing an Arizona woman. Prosecutors accused Morton of intentionally driving up the sidewalk while impaired on marijuana. After going through multiple competency evaluations, shes scheduled to go to trial later this year on charges that include murder and attempted murder. A decade earlier, a California man mowed down 14 people with a Buick sedan near the old Ballys resort, now the Horseshoe Las Vegas. Three tourists were killed. Stephen Ressa, who told police he thought the victims were demons who were trying to kill him, is serving a 100-year prison sentence. Metro and the county also work with private resort security so there is patrolling and enforcement coverage, and to ensure quick response times and medical services, according to the county. Pedestrians can mostly only cross the boulevard on bridges. This partnership has been highlighted in the quick response times by both (Metro) and (the fire department) during recent high-visibility incidents such as the truck explosion and the stabbing incident that occurred in 2022, the county said in a statement, though these are just two examples of what is a routine response to those in need. Metro and the Nevada Resort Association, an advocacy group for the gaming and resort industry, supported and worked closely to implement the bollards. Protecting employees and visitors is always the resort industrys highest priority, said Virginia Valentine, the associations president and CEO in a statement. Our members have robust protocols in place to ensure a safe environment, including security and surveillance measures which are unseen by the public or are kept confidential for maximum effectiveness. Valentine added: Bollards were immediately embraced by our members, some of whom had already added protective barriers into their hardscaping, Clark County and (Metro). This wasnt the first time officials took action locally following high-profile tragedies. After the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995 that killed 168 victims, the federal government built a new courthouse downtown with a blast-resistant curtain wall a first at the time. The building opened in 2000. In a news conference Wednesday, McMahill was also asked if police need to reexamine security procedures after the Cybertruck blast. We were very successful the night before. Im surprised this happened, to be quite frank with you, and thats certainly something were going to have to look at, McMahill said. The sheriff also said Thursday that hes confident in the safety of the safety of our community as we move forward. (Review-Journal staff writer Richard N. Velotta contributed to this story.) SUNBURY, Pa. A Northumberland County man admitted he fatally shot his girlfriend of seven years Friday afternoon while believing he was about to be killed and eaten, officials said. Jared Heath Wolfe, 46, of Milton, was arraigned Saturday and committed to the Northumberland County Jail without bail accused of killing Jane White. White, 46, was pronounced dead Friday where Sunbury police found her unresponsive and bleeding in the middle of Court Street just off South 11th Street. Police, who were dispatched at 1:43 p.m., arrested Wolfe a short time later at the residence of his brother Adam in the 800 block of Fifth Street. Adam Wolfe had called 911 to report his brother had arrived with a gun and proclaiming he had just shot his girlfriend, police said. Jared Wolfe provided this account of the shooting to investigators during an interview, the arrest affidavit states: He drove White from their residence in Milton to Sunbury where they went met a male friend. They went to the apartment of the friends brother where they smoked what he thought was marijuana. He used a paranormal meter to check energy in a statue and when the reading came back high he became very scared. He thought one of the brothers was trying to put a white rag with something on it over his mouth to harm him. Thinking White and the brothers were going to kill and eat him, he panicked and ran out of the house to get his gun from his vehicle. He had put a live round in the 9mm handgun when White opened the passenger side door. He fired a shot hitting her in the chest believing he was doing so in self-defense but he admitted he did not see a weapon in her hand. When asked by police why he did not provide aid to White instead of driving to his brothers, he replied: I was too messed up. Through the execution of search warrants, police said they recovered the suspected murder weapon and in the brothers apartment a large amount of suspected synthetic marijuana and multiple smoking devices. PennLive is not identifying the brothers because, according to city police, they have not been charged. The investigation into what occurred in their apartment is continuing, District Attorney Michael C. ODonnell said. Wolfe is charged with first- and third-degree murder, aggravated and simple assault, recklessly endangering another person and possession of a firearm without a license. Anchorage, AK A woman originally from the Oswego County area has been missing for several months in Alaska, her family and police say. Kelsey Thomas, 33, was reported missing on Jan. 1, according to a news release by the Anchorage Police Department Saturday. Her last known location was in Anchorage, Alaska, according to her family. Thomas sister Brooke Demott said her family has not been able to talk to her since September. They went looking for her at her last known place of residence, last known place of employment, they ran her social security number, and shes just nowhere, Demott said. They just dont know where she is, and they have not had any luck in locating her. Thomas grew up in the Oswego area and graduated from Oswego High School in 2009. She later moved to Alaska and has lived there for the past eight years, Demott said. Her ex-husband was stationed in Anchorage. Demott said Thomas had a son and stayed in the area with him. Thomas has a history of drug abuse, Demott said, but she is worried she is in danger and has been sex-trafficked. In Anchorage alone, there were 40,000-60,000 online advertisements for trafficked people per month, the Alaska Beacon. The paper reported some of those advertisements were for the same person posted more than once. Demott said most of Thomas' family is in New York and they dont know what to do. But they have hope Thomas will be found, Demott said. Kelsey is 56 feet tall and approximately 130 pounds, police said. She has brown hair and green eyes. Anchorage police ask anyone with information on the whereabouts of Kelsey Thomas to call dispatch at 3-1-1 (option 1) (a non-emergency contact for police in Alaska) or (907) 786-8900 (option 0). STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. A day into congestion pricing and Staten Islanders are already starting to feel the effects of congestion pricing on their wallets and quality of life, according to AM New York. According to the publication, several Staten Islanders spoke to them about their next move and lifestyle changes as a result of congestion pricing. Court officer Brian Meyer, from Staten Island, drives into Midtown for work every day, the outlet reported. Meyer said to AMNY, that he would likely now take the express bus to the court where he works, which would make his commute cheaper but at least 45 minutes longer every day extending Meyers journey over five hours weekly. I already pay for the Verrazzano Bridge toll and the Hugh Carey Tunnel toll, and if I want to continue to drive to work, Ill either have to pay the congestion fee or attempt to park above 60th Street and walk down, Meyer, who works on West 54th Street, said to AMNY. According to the outlet, Staten Islanders driving into Manhattan face toll prices into the hundreds each month now that congestion pricing is in effect. I and other Staten Islanders commuting into the congestion zone would be paying $500 to $600 a month in tolls just to get to and from work, Meyer explained to the outlet. As a result, the officer is considering moving out of Midtown soon, the outlet said. According to the publication, Staten Island resident, Jennifer DiScalo Tricomi said her husband, who works for the NYC Department of Sanitation, is planning to transfer from his Manhattan post in April, as a result of MTAs $9 base toll into Manhattan south of and including 60th Street. Nearly 300 FDNY Emergency Medical Service workers also told AMNY they are also ready to depart the Manhattan Congestion Relief Zone, citing the same financial burdens the others felt as a result of congestion pricing. The union is urging its nearly 270 EMTs and paramedics assigned to the area to transfer out immediately, the report said. According to the MTA, city workers are not exempt from congestion pricing, although they have exceptions for authorized emergency and municipal-owned vehicles. The MTA offers various exemptions and discounts based on income. Many other municipal workers, according to AMNY, are also considering saying farewell to their Midtown or Lower Manhattan posts. It hasnt happened much in American history. Vice President Kamala Harris on Jan. 6 will oversee the certification of the Electoral College vote from the 2024 presidential election. That will put her in the bittersweet position of officially certifying her own presidential loss. Donald Trump defeated Harris in last years election, winning both the Electoral College vote and the popular vote. In her role as president of the U.S. Senate, Harris will oversee the joint session of Congress during which the Electoral College results from the 50 states will be formally counted and certified. Electors had met in the states on Dec. 17 to cast their votes. Those ballots were signed, sealed and delivered to Washington, D.C., and will be opened and counted before Senate and House members on Monday. It was during the Electoral College certification process in 2021 that Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol in an attempt to stop the certification of Joe Bidens defeat of Trump in the 2020 election. The last time a vice president certified their own presidential loss also came amid controversy. Democratic Vice President Al Gore in 2001 oversaw the joint congressional session that certified his loss to Republican George W. Bush in the 2000 election. Bush won the presidency after the U.S. Supreme Court ordered a halt to the recounting of ballots in Florida. In 1960, Vice President Richard Nixon oversaw the certification of Electoral College votes in his narrow presidential loss to John F. Kennedy. In a speech to Congress before the counting of electoral votes began, Nixon said that it was the first time in 100 years that a sitting vice president had overseen the certification of his own defeat in a presidential election. I do not think that we could have a more striking and eloquent example of the stability of our constitutional system, Nixon said. NPR reported that Vice President Hubert Humphrey, who lost the 1968 presidential election to Nixon, did not oversee the counting of the Electoral College votes in 1969. Humphrey instead attended the funeral of Trygve Halvdan Lie, of Norway, who was the first secretary general of the United Nations and who had died on Dec. 30, 1968. KYODO NEWS - Jan 7, 2025 - 07:02 | All, Japan, World Japan's Nippon Steel Corp. and United States Steel Corp. said Monday they have filed two lawsuits seeking to protect their merger plan from "illegal and improper political and anticompetitive interference" after it was blocked by U.S. President Joe Biden last week. The announcement came as Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba warned of potential repercussions from Biden's decision for the close business ties between the two countries and urged a detailed explanation of the president's reasoning for barring the $14.1 billion deal, which he has said creates national security risk. Regarding the lawsuit filed in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, the two steelmakers said in a statement that Biden's order was made for "purely political reasons which are irrelevant to, and are to the detriment of, U.S. national security." They asserted Biden "ignored the rule of law to gain favor with" the United Steelworkers union, referring to the key supporter of his Democratic Party that has opposed the sale of the struggling Pittsburgh-headquartered producer to the major Japanese company. They also accused a panel of U.S. federal agencies tasked with looking into the deal before Biden made his decision of failing to conduct "a good faith" regulatory review. The second lawsuit was filed against rival Cleveland-Cliffs Inc., its CEO Lourenco Goncalves and United Steelworkers union leader David McCall at the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. It alleges they colluded to block the acquisition of U.S. Steel by any party other than Cleveland-Cliffs, the second-largest American steelmaker. Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel described the actions as an attempt to monopolize the U.S. domestic steel market, stating the lawsuit was filed to prevent "further collusive and anticompetitive behavior" that has caused them billions of dollars in damages. Nippon Steel said its Chairman Eiji Hashimoto will hold a press conference Tuesday morning. While the fight to defend the deal intensifies, Ishiba said he takes "seriously" the concerns among Japanese business circles over future investments between Japan and the United States. "I will strongly urge the U.S. government to respond toward dispelling (the concerns)," he said during his first press conference of the year on Monday. He also said, "It is out of the question if we don't get proper explanation on why there are concerns on national security." Biden's order, issued Friday, marked the first time a U.S. president has blocked a merger and acquisition deal involving a Japanese company. He said the takeover would "create risk for our national security and our critical supply chains." The order required Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel to abandon their merger plan within 30 days. Biden, who leaves office on Jan. 20, and President-elect Donald Trump have both publicly opposed the deal announced in December 2023 by Japan's biggest steelmaker and the third-largest U.S. producer. "Why would they want to sell U.S. Steel now when tariffs will make it a much more profitable and valuable company? Wouldn't it be nice to have U.S. Steel, once the greatest company in the world, lead the charge toward greatness again?" Trump said on his Truth Social platform on Monday. "It can all happen very quickly!" In a statement issued hours before the announcement of the lawsuits, Nippon Steel President Tadashi Imai said, "We will pursue every possible measure" as "we will never give up on expanding our U.S. operations." The outgoing president's decision has drawn criticism from the Japanese business community, with some insisting that he has set a bad precedent for other domestic firms pursuing acquisitions in the United States, a key ally of Japan. The Washington Post reported Sunday that Biden's decision to block Nippon Steel's bid overrode the advice of numerous top aides, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, who argued against or expressed reservations about the president's position. Japan's Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yoji Muto also told reporters Monday that the president's decision is "extremely regrettable and hard to understand." "Economic relations serve as the foundation of bilateral ties. I believe it is very crucial to develop an environment where companies can make investment decisions without concerns," Muto said. Related coverage: Nippon Steel to sue U.S. gov't over decision to block acquisition Biden blocks acquisition of U.S. Steel by Nippon Steel Nippon Steel promises no cuts to U.S. Steel's output for 10 years Advertisement Eating outBest of Victorias 10 best waterfront restaurants for great food with a beautiful view From seaside stalwarts to breezy new arrivals, the Good Food Guide to the best food with a sea or lake-side view this summer and beyond. Good Food Guide reviewers January 7, 2025 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 One of the more frequent questions the Good Food Guide team gets asked especially over summer is whats a great restaurant with a water view? Well, here are 10 of them. Handpicked from The Age Good Food Guide 2025, here are our favourite new and classic restaurants by the water, for an instant, scenic, holiday-feeling hit without even leaving the state. Barwon Edge is located beside the river in Newtown. Supplied Barwon Edge Its more than a year since the teams behind Geelong favourites Felix and Alma took over this stunning riverside venue, and a well-judged renovation and crowd-pleasing menu with Middle Eastern touches have won many hearts. Sit in the more formal restaurant to share slices of bronzed halloumi while you admire sage tiles and dark green marble that cleverly bring the eucalyptus scenery indoors. More into breakfast and smashed avo? The adjoining cafe with playground is already on regular rotation among locals who roam the three-acre grounds with takeaway coffees and massive grins. 47 Windsor Road, Newtown, barwonedge.com.au Advertisement Donovans Dependability is what makes bayside stayer Donovans exceptional. It opened in 1997 in a 1920s-era former bathing pavilion and while the menu barely changes, neither does its quality. Seafood linguine is a fan favourite, packed with sweet scallops, mussels, and half a Moreton Bay bug in butter sauce with just the right amount of garlic. Grilled leader prawns are unadulterated, offering nothing to distract from the underlying quality. Staff are young, but well trained in old-school service delivered with a relaxed charm. Sink back and let them look after you as soak up that golden St Kilda sunset. 40 Jacka Boulevard, St Kilda, donovans.com.au Ipsos: sunny Greek food, water views. Supplied Advertisement Ipsos Cracking the neighbourly-yet-worldly formula takes a small miracle in tourist towns. Ipsos, then, must have been blessed by a deity. Waiters know when to slide in and ask locals about their latest holiday before waltzing over to the door to a find a table for an out-of-town couple. Salty, just-seared kefalograviera cheese is cut into slabs, joined by jammy preserved figs and rushed to diners with advice to eat it while its hot. Long threads of flash-fried calamari come from Lorne or Queenscliff, their freshness echoed in a glass of volcanic-soil assyrtiko from northern Greece. And the aroma of just-squeezed oranges wafts from sweet patsavoura, the custard and filo tart, to nearby tables. 48 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne, ipsosrestaurant.com.au The picturesque Lake House in Daylesford. Supplied Lake House So youve come to worship at the Alla Wolf-Tasker altar. Four decades ago, Lake Houses culinary director pioneered the hyper-seasonal, ultra-local movement, and today her handle of all things homegrown is as impressive as ever. Few others can produce a potato veloute this velvety, made with Dutch creams from the restaurants nearby 15-hectare farm and clutching a single sweet, pickled mussel. The beauty of this natural bounty plays well with lake views from the recently refreshed dining room, its plush carpets and cloud-like Fandango lights as renowned as the choreographed duos that deliver each glorious plate. 4 King Street, Daylesford, lakehouse.com.au Advertisement Pipis Kiosk: swell views. Supplied Pipis Kiosk With its pitched roofs and prime waterfront real estate, Pipis mimics a pair of beach boxes. Picture windows, sand-coloured drapes and a sea-green quartz bar link the interior to its setting. The menu contributes to this coastal cohesion. Seaweed wraps charcoal-grilled turbot, served on the bone with pickled grapes for zip. Creamy Merimbula oysters arrive with an inspired rhubarb dressing, and a salad of Ramarro Farm leaves is arranged like choppy waves on the bay. Tamagoyaki-style rolled omelette is tare-glazed and topped with spanner crab, its understated luxury mirrored in the cashmere shawls of neighbouring diners. The kitchen also captains a takeaway window serving fish and chips and other beach-ready snacks. 129A Beaconsfield Parade, Albert Park, pipiskiosk.com.au Laura restaurant at Pt Leo Estate. Bonnie Savage Advertisement Pt. Leo Restaurant & Laura Its hard to ignore the sky, sea and sculpture just beyond the wraparound windows. Try as you might, that million-dollar view keeps pulling you back. But plenty is happening inside these two light-soaked dining rooms (Pt. Leo Restaurant the more casual; Laura degustation only), where even the cutlery is sculptural. Arrive on a weekend and find the space filled with a flurry of multi-generational families, international tourists and loved-up couples. Floor staff are experienced enough to keep everything on track. Using first-rate peninsula ingredients, the busy kitchen of Pt. Leo sends out a savoury take on Basque cheesecake using Main Ridge goats milk alongside foraged pine mushrooms. At Laura, you might marvel at the textures of a sea urchin risotto, before you stroll around the sculpture park as nature intended. 3649 Frankston-Flinders Road, Merricks, ptleoestate.com.au Sardine Dining in Paynesville. Supplied Sardine Dining Advertisement You might be on the deck watching the Raymond Island ferry come and go on a summers evening, or fireside on a foggy winters night: either way, certain things remain the same. Service is attentive and warm, and refined cooking leans on ingredients from Gippslands waters and fields. Owner-chef Mark Briggs worked with some of the worlds best before opening this modern, grey-toned restaurant now with adjoining wine bar in 2017. His crumpets beg to be smeared with buttery potted shrimp. Sardine fillets loll in grassy chive oil, and crisp-skinned Lakes Entrance snapper comes with a sauce boosted by chicken stock. Hazelnut parfait with chocolate sorbet and honeycomb nuggets channels posh Violet Crumble. Making the familiar fabulous is the ninja skill of this waterside diner. 69 Esplanade, Paynesville, sardinedining.com.au You cannot get any closer to the water than at Sodafish. Supplied Sodafish When staff boast that everything is sourced locally at this floating restaurant, theyre not kidding. The king prawns twirled with spaghettini, chilli and garlic? Your waiter will point to a trawler along the jetty. Chunky octopus? Grilled flathead? Sirloin steak? All local even the carrots in a cake crowned by caramel cream. That octopus gets oomph from chorizo and a sauce fragrant with vadouvan spices. Beurre blanc alongside the flathead hums with preserved tomato. Moored among the Lakes Entrance fishing fleet, this former ferry is a prime spot to sip a Gippsland chardonnay at a blondwood table, and watch the sun set and the pelicans cruise by. Advertisement The ends of the venue have the best views inside and out so if thats important, ask when you book. The fact that service is cheerful is all the more reason to step aboard. Middle Boat Harbour, Esplanade, Lakes Entrance, sodafish.com.au The stunning Stokehouse. Supplied Stokehouse Palm fronds will wave, corks will pop, seafood platters will adorn tables: these are the laws of Stokehouse. Theres unhampered creativity, too, when the kitchen colours outside the lines. Orange segments wink from under grilled flathead fillets, a burst of unconventional citrus that pairs well with sea urchin veloute and the tender fish whose skin rustles when cut. Theres just-set scallop mousse snuck into a firm round of steamed cod wrapped in daikon: the shellfish deepening and sweetening a dish made for diehard seafood fans. Quail terrine is one of many fish-free dishes, while desserts are as preppy as a twinset. Advertisement Extra touches from the floor team have everyone walking on sunshine, even if its not your birthday or anniversary. For big-deal meals, Stokehouse is as safe as houses. 30 Jacka Boulevard, St Kilda, stokehouse.com.au Stokehouse Pasta & Bar: sand adjacent. Supplied Stokehouse Pasta & Bar Even as storm clouds roll in across the bay, Stokehouses sand-adjacent casual venue remains as sunny as its smiling, informal staff. It helps that every bottle on the list is priced at a wallet-friendly $79, and the menu is packed with well-executed crowd-pleasers. Bite-sized chunks of fried halloumi are offset by discs of grilled celeriac and fresh fig, and scorched squid comes licked with tangy seaweed sauce. And a retro lemon meringue sundae comes with the requisite (maraschino) cherry on top. From the long timber bar to the Aperol-orange umbrellas to the ultra-wide ocean views, the energy is relaxed in a way thats only natural this close to the bay. Ground level, 30 Jacka Boulevard, St Kilda, stokepastaandbar.com.au Advertisement Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up A man who Fiji police allege sexually assaulted a Virgin Australia crew member has been remanded in custody after facing court for the first time. Dressed in a bright Bula shirt, Ilaisa Tanoa Degei faced Nadi Magistrates Court on Monday charged with one count of sexual assault and one count of rape over the alleged attack on a 21-year-old flight attendant following New Years Eve celebrations at Nadis Bar One nightclub. Ilaisa Tanoa Degei faced a Fiji court on Monday. Credit: Baljeet Singh/The Fiji Times Magistrate Mareta Tikoisuva adjourned Degeis matter until January 20 after prosecutors opposed bail because both charges are indictable offences, The Fiji Times reported. The 24-year-old farmer will appear in the countrys High Court. In a separate incident, another member of the Virgin crew also alleged they were assaulted during the night out in Nadi, telling police they were robbed and suffered facial injuries outside Bar One. Queensland police have sent off a suspected human skull bone found at a popular Gold Coast Hinterland hiking trail for forensic testing. Police and SES crews searched Springbrook National Park after the bone was discovered by a hiker on Friday morning near the Best of All Lookout. More than a dozen volunteers searched the rainforest area off Repeater Station Road over the weekend. However, no other bones were found. Panorama from Best of All Lookout in Springbrook National Park in the Gold Coast Hinterland, Queensland. Credit: Alamy Locals were concerned about the discovery, which came at one of its busiest tourist periods over the Christmas and New Year break. Springbrook has a population of less than 1000 people and is known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforests. A man allegedly struck his partner with an axe handle the day before she died in a Sunshine Coast hospital, a court has been told. Philip Andrew Hunter, 58, of Currimundi, was not required to appear in Maroochydore Magistrates Court on Monday for a mention of charges relating to his alleged assaults against 47-year-old Kristy Louise Hunter. Police previously said emergency services were called to a Gannawarra Street address in Currimundi, about 4.40pm on December 22 following reports of a disturbance. The woman died in Sunshine Coast University Hospital on December 23. Credit: Catherine Strohfeldt A 47-year-old woman was found at the address with non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment. KYODO NEWS - Jan 6, 2025 - 12:27 | All, Japan Tokyo stocks dropped Monday morning, the first trading day of 2025, as investors took profits following the Nikkei stock index's record year-end close. The 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average fell 500.27 points, or 1.25 percent, from Monday last week to 39,394.27. The broader Topix index was down 26.89 points, or 0.97 percent, at 2,758.03. The U.S. dollar hovered mostly in the upper 157 yen range, as the Japanese currency, which had briefly slid to the 158 yen level late last year, remains weak due in part to receding expectations the Bank of Japan will hike rates imminently, dealers said. At noon, the dollar fetched 157.69-74 yen compared with 157.24-34 yen in New York at 5 p.m. Friday. Japanese financial markets were closed from last Tuesday for the New Year holidays. The euro was quoted at $1.0314-0318 and 162.64-76 yen against $1.0304-0314 and 162.15-25 yen in New York late Friday afternoon. Stocks stayed primarily in negative territory on Monday morning, weighed down by the Dow Jones Industrial Average's four consecutive days of losses while Japan's market was closed. The market was also dragged down as some heavyweight shares, which surged last month, were sold, while U.S. stock futures retreated amid a lack of fresh trading incentives, brokers said. Related coverage: Nearly 80% of firms expect continued economic growth in Japan in 2025 FOCUS: Tokyo stocks to test further gains in 2025 amid global risks Nikkei rises 19% in 2024, highest year-end finish on record Washington wants to see a ceasefire deal in Gaza concluded and the hostages brought out in the next two weeks, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Monday. A renewed push is under way to reach a ceasefire in the war between Israel and Hamas and return Israeli hostages before US President-elect Donald Trump takes office on January 20. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken says Washington wants a ceasefire deal in the next two weeks. Credit: AP We very much want to bring this over the finish line in the next two weeks, the time we have remaining, Blinken told a press conference in South Korea, when asked whether a ceasefire deal was close. Israel and Hamas wrangled on Sunday over the details of a deal to halt fighting in the Gaza Strip and return hostages home, as Palestinian officials said intensified Israeli bombardments had killed more than 100 people over the weekend. Five people died as a result of the Capitol riot and more than 140 police officers were injured defending the building. Nearly 600 people have been charged in the riot, and more than 1250 have been convicted. Trump said last month that within minutes or hours of taking office, he would pardon those convicted of participating in the riot. He did not specify how many people he would pardon but told Time magazine that a vast majority of them should not be in jail. Jacob Chansley (right) yells as a fellow rioter confronts Capitol police in Washington D. C. on January 6, 2021. Credit: Getty Images, digitally tinted For many of those living and working on Capitol Hill, the neighbourhood surrounding the Capitol, the attack was personal and felt for months. Streets were closed. Helicopters circled overhead. Local parks were patrolled by troops. On a recent January morning, the neighbourhoods footpaths were dappled with joggers, parents pushing strollers, and people heading to work. Some pedestrians declined to discuss the events of January 6 or provide their names. Some said they feared ruffling the feathers of their employers or attracting unwanted attention online. Others shrugged off questions with general exasperation at the state of the political climate. Loading A block from the Capitol, Christine Clapp walked her dog, Piper, home after meeting her husband for coffee. The long-time Capitol Hill resident remembers the fear that swallowed her neighbourhood on January 6 and the days that followed. And shes frustrated there are leaders and others who have chosen to downplay the events of the day. The fact that some are viewing it as a benign situation is a real insult to the members and the staff and the police and to the surrounding community and D.C. and to the nation, she said. Clapp isnt concerned about a riot happening this year. I think the fact its Trump coming back makes this anniversary a bit more difficult, but after seeing the reaction to his election was peaceful, Im not fearful there will be people coming up here with pitchforks when the transfer of power happens, she said. Above one front door on a neighbourhood street hung a banner displaying an American flag with black block letters: RESIST TRUMP. Vernon Skip Strobel II, a native Washingtonian, had the sign made for his brick home after Trump first took office in 2017. I guess we can take that sign down now, he remembers his roommate saying after Biden won the 2020 election. No, we cant, replied Strobel, 73. This man isnt going away. Now, as the insurrection anniversary nears and Trumps second inauguration approaches, Strobel says the banner will remain. He was glued to his TV that day in 2021, as the mob stormed the Capitol, just over a kilometre from his home. Later that afternoon, he ventured down to take in the sight with his own eyes. He says the Capitol lawn feels like an extension of his backyard, a cherished place to read a book. That day, it was in ruins. He remembers the yelling, the flags, the broken glass and barriers. Then-president Donald Trump speaks at a January 6, 2021 rally protesting against the certification of Joe Bidens election win. Credit: AP A retired federal employee and the son of a D.C. firefighter, he held back tears recounting the scene. Its my hometown that people were trashing and defacing, he said. It just so happens to also be the nations capital city. The January 6 anniversary is always difficult for Craig Sicknick, the oldest brother of Capitol Police officer Brian D. Sicknick, who died on January 7, 2021, after fighting off Capitol insurgents the day before. Loading This year, the day will be tough for two reasons. One is, well, my brothers not coming back, Sicknick said in an interview from his Spotswood, New Jersey, home. Secondly, he says the country itself is possibly irreparably damaged by electing Trump a second time. Sicknick is outraged that Trump has said he would pardon those convicted for crimes on January 6, including potentially the two men who attacked his brother. One was sentenced to seven years in prison, the other to five months for attacking Brian Sicknick and other officers with chemical spray. Its inexcusable. These people broke the law, Sicknick said. Basically, youre saying the justice system has no meaning. For Sicknick, there is no question that Trump encouraged his supporters to go to the Capitol and did nothing to stop their assault until well after much of the damage had been done. Insurrectionists loyal to Donald Trump violently attack the US Capitol in an effort to overturn the election results on January 6, 2021. Credit: AP The Washington Post reported in 2022 that during the attack, Trump watched television, criticised Pence and made calls pushing lawmakers to overturn the election as his supporters ransacked the Capitol. Later that afternoon, he made a video urging his supporters to go home. We had an election that was stolen from us. It was a landslide election and everyone knows it, especially the other side, Trump said in the recorded video from the White House. But you have to go home now. We have to have peace. We have to have law and order. Sicknick says that Trumps actions that day qualify as leading an insurrection, and because of that, his return to the White House is unconstitutional. On Saturday afternoon, he travelled to the district to share that message at a rally on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. Loading But on Monday, he plans to retreat, temporarily, from his battle over Trumps fitness for office and instead find time for himself. I think Im going to turn off all news sources, he said, take the day off, and maybe go for a nice long walk in the woods. The Washington Post ~ Police on High chase in Dutch Quarter shots fired. ~ PHILIPSBURG: --- A Chinese Supermarket on AT Illidge Road was robbed by two robbers on scooters. The incident took place around 5 pm on Sunday. Police were called to the scene, and a high chase began behind the robbers who headed to the Dutch Quarter. Police Spokesman Inspector Josepha said that even though warning shots were fired, no one was hurt, and the robbers managed to escape. The Police continue with the search and investigation. As soon as more details become available, this article will be updated. PHILIPSBURG:--- In a step towards ongoing efforts towards the revitalization of St. Maarten as a premier tourist destination, Minister Heyliger-Marten proudly announces the signing of an assignment with Designers Choice. This decision follows a public tender process aimed at selecting a qualified vendor to execute two projects: the Philipsburg Beautification Masterplan and the Soualiga Routes initiative. The Beautification Masterplan is set to inject new life into Philipsburg through strategic design enhancements and artistic features, making the town an appealing hub for locals and visitors. The plan will incorporate sustainable practices, ensuring developments are practical, environmentally friendly, and supportive of the islands long-term resilience. Focused on revitalizing public spaces, this initiative aims to attract more foot traffic, in turn fostering economic growth while maintaining a balance between development, infrastructure management and nature preservation. Separately, the Soualiga Routes project will enhance key roadways primarily used by tourists, such as to and from the ports of entry as well as the Dutch-side/French-side borders. By transforming these into scenic routes highlighted by art and culture, the project aims to enrich the touristic experience while providing unique photo opportunities that will promote visitors social media narratives. The beautification of Philipsburg is a two-pronged approach, firstly, to enhance our islands visual appeal; and secondly, its about restoring pride in our community and showcasing the unique charm of St. Maarten to the world, stated Minister Heyliger-Marten. We are committed to creating an environment where our cultural heritage is celebrated, and our local economy flourishes, while enhancing our infrastructure. This masterplan is a testament to our dedication to sustainable growth and opportunities for our citizens, continued the Minister. Minister Heyliger-Maren stated that as the project advances, the vendor, Designers Choice, will initiate site assessments and actively engage with stakeholders throughout Government, and the community. This is to ensure that the project reflects local cultural, and aesthetic values. Minister Heyliger-Marten has expressed a strong desire for collaborative efforts, emphasizing the importance of synergy between relevant ministries and public-private partnerships. Designer's Choice will develop design concepts that blend local culture with modern aesthetics, supported by sustainable practices, while outlining infrastructure improvement plans that enhance community resilience. A structured timeline will be issued to ensure transparency and accountability as the projects progress. PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament and Leader of the United Peoples UP Party Omar E.C. Ottley has sounded the alarm over what he warns could be an impending "Quad-demic" crisis, demanding urgent action from the current Minister of Health. The warning comes amidst reports of an alarming combination of viral threats, including a dangerous new respiratory illness sweeping through China and a surge in norovirus and flu-like symptoms in Sint Maarten. Ottley sharply criticized the lack of proactive efforts from the Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA), pointing out the dangerous reality that could soon unfold. "We are facing a ticking time bomb," said Ottley, emphasizing the rapidly escalating viral threats worldwide. "Despite the increasing cases of illness, the Minister has failed to address the situation with any sense of urgency, leaving our citizens vulnerable." The "Quad-demic" refers to the simultaneous emergence of four highly contagious viruses: COVID-19, influenza, norovirus, and a new respiratory virus from China resembling pneumonia. While each illness poses a serious risk, Ottley warned that their combined impact could devastate Sint Maarten's already strained healthcare system. "If we don't act now, our hospitals will be overwhelmed more than during the COVID-19 crisis. Lack of preparedness means we could face a disaster even worse than before." Ottley's concerns were amplified by reports of overcrowded hospitals in China, where the surge in respiratory illnesses is overwhelming medical facilities. The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has already issued warnings, advising travellers to practice strict hygiene measures such as covering their mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing and wearing a mask if exhibiting respiratory symptoms. Meanwhile, Countries like Curacao have already begun promoting preventative health measures to avoid a similar crisis. In Sint Maarten, Ottley insists that the government must take swift and decisive action. "We're seeing an increase in illness across the community, yet the Minister remains silent. Why aren't we seeing public health advisories or concrete steps being taken to prepare for what's coming?" he asked. "It's irresponsible for the government to wait until hospitals are full and our healthcare staff are pushed to the brink. We need to prepare now." Ottley's call to action comes at a time when the threat of a new respiratory virus, similar to pneumonia and COVID-19, is growing, along with influenza and norovirus. "The reality is that we've seen this before with COVID-19. We cannot afford to ignore these warnings," Ottley stated. "Now is the time to act, not when it's too late." He expressed his concern that the healthcare system could be further stressed by the combined impact of these viruses, leading to a catastrophic overload. "We know how devastating a surge in patient loads can be if we don't start preparing. We must use the warnings we have now that were not clear leading up to the COVID-19 pandemic and not risk repeating the same mistakes many countries made during COVID-19. Our people and our healthcare system deserve better." Ottley is urging the current Minister of Health to take immediate steps, including securing essential medical supplies, expanding testing capabilities, and implementing clear public health guidance. "The people of Sint Maarten deserve transparency, proactive planning, and effective collaboration between the government and healthcare stakeholders," he stated. "The clock is ticking, and delays in action could cost lives. It's time for the Minister to step up and present a comprehensive plan for the Quad-demic." "Preparedness saves lives. We can't afford to wait any longer. North Korea fires ballistic missile as Blinken visits South Seoul, Jan 6 (AFP) Jan 06, 2025 North Korea launched a ballistic missile on Monday, South Korea's military said, as the top US diplomat was meeting key officials in Seoul. "North Korea sent unknown ballistic missile towards the East Sea," South Korea's military said, referring to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan. Monday's launch took place while outgoing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was meeting his counterpart and the South's acting president before he heads to Japan. The missile appeared to have fallen into the sea, the Japanese defence ministry and Japanese coast guard said in separate statements. The ballistic missile launch is Pyongyang's first this year. Its previous launch was in November, when it test-fired what it said was its most advanced and powerful solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). That was North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's first weapons test since sending soldiers to help Russia fight Ukraine. South Korea fired a ballistic missile into the sea in a show of force in response to Pyongyang's salvo of missile launches. North Korea also staged GPS jamming attacks on the South later in November, an operation that affected several ships and dozens of civilian aircraft in the country. South Korea has been plunged into weeks of political crisis after President Yoon Suk Seol announced a short-lived martial law decree on December 3. North Korean state media said last week the South was in "chaos" and paralysed politically over an attempt by investigators to execute an arrest warrant for Yoon. - N. Korea-Russia ties - Monday's test-fire was also the first since President-elect Donald Trump won re-election in November. North Korea and Russia have strengthened their military ties, to the concern of US allies, since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. A landmark defence pact signed by Pyongyang and Moscow in June came into force last month, with Russian President Vladimir Putin hailing it as a "breakthrough document". It obligates both states to provide military assistance "without delay" in the case of an attack on the other and to cooperate internationally to oppose Western sanctions. North Korea and Russia are under rafts of UN sanctions -- Kim for his nuclear weapons programme and Moscow for the Ukraine war. The North's deployment of troops has led to a shift in tone from Seoul, which has so far resisted calls to send lethal weapons to Kyiv. However, the South's government indicated before its political crisis began that it might change its longstanding policy. North Korea fires missile as Blinken seeks stability in South Seoul, Jan 6 (AFP) Jan 06, 2025 North Korea on Monday fired a missile just as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited South Korea, where he sought a stable course on foreign policy as political turmoil engulfs the US ally. Blinken visited just as investigators were trying to arrest conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol, who has entrenched himself in his residence after being impeached for a failed attempt to impose martial law. In a reminder of common challenges that go beyond domestic politics, North Korea on Monday fired a ballistic missile into the sea just as Blinken was holding meetings in Seoul, according to the South Korean military. "Our military detected one projectile presumed to be a intermediate-range ballistic missile" launched toward the East Sea, South Korea's military said, referring to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan. After the missile flew around 1,100 kilometres (680 miles), the military said Seoul "strengthened surveillance and vigilance" for any more launches. The missile appeared to have fallen into the water, according to Japan. Seoul was "in close coordination with the US and Japan" about the launch, the South's military added. The test comes two weeks before the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, who in his last term sought to woo North Korea with a unique personal diplomacy. - Blinken's final tour - Blinken, on the first stop of what will likely be his final trip as the top US diplomat, met acting president Choi Sang-mok, a technocrat in office just over a week, as well as Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul, who is not under threat of impeachment. With noisy protests gripping Seoul and audible from Blinken's hotel, he steered clear of wading into partisan politics. Blinken reiterated the "ironclad commitment" of Washington to defending South Korea and spoke with Choi about "how both sides will work together to further strengthen bilateral cooperation and trilateral cooperation with Japan", a State Department statement said. Until briefly imposing martial law on December 3, Yoon had been a darling of President Joe Biden's administration for his pro-US policies on the global stage. Yoon delighted the United States by seeking to turn the page on decades of friction with Japan, a fellow US ally that is also home to thousands of US troops. Yoon joined Biden and Japan's then prime minister Fumio Kishida in 2023 for a landmark three-way summit at the Camp David presidential retreat that included a promise to step up intelligence cooperation on North Korea. Choi's office said in a statement that South Korea remained committed to the "principles and agreements from the Camp David summit". The acting president "stated that South Korea will continue to maintain its diplomatic and security policies based on a strong Korea-US alliance and trilateral cooperation among South Korea, the US and Japan", the statement said. - Changes expected under Trump - South Korea's progressive opposition, which has made Yoon's life miserable from parliament and is increasingly ascendant since the president's power grab, historically has taken a harder line on Japan. Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung -- who himself faces election disqualification in a court case -- also favours more diplomatic outreach with North Korea than the hawkish Yoon. The turmoil and lack of a clear leader in Asia's fourth-largest economy comes just as the US is in the midst of its own political transition. While Biden has focused on nurturing US alliances, Trump, who takes over on January 20, has been dismissive of what he sees as unfair commitments by Washington. Trump said during his latest presidential run that if he were in power he would have strong-armed South Korea into paying $10 billion a year for the US troop presence, nearly 10 times what it contributes now. But paradoxically, Trump forged a bond with the last progressive South Korean president, Moon Jae-in, who encouraged his attempts at deal-making with North Korea. Trump, who once threatened "fire and fury" against North Korea, went on to meet three times with leader Kim Jong Un and said they "fell in love". Trump's unusually personal diplomacy managed to lower tensions on the Korean peninsula but brought no lasting deal to end Pyongyang's nuclear programme. KYODO NEWS - Jan 6, 2025 - 21:53 | All, World, Japan North Korea launched a ballistic missile toward the Sea of Japan on Monday, South Korea's military said, with military analysts suggesting Pyongyang may have tested a hypersonic weapon equipped with a solid-fuel engine. The Japanese Defense Ministry reported that the missile, North Korea's first launch in about two months, appears to have fallen outside Japan's exclusive economic zone, with no damage to planes or ships reported. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff initially reported that North Korea had fired a possible intermediate-range ballistic missile from the Pyongyang area around noon but later determined that the projectile's flight distance was shorter than that of typical intermediate-range missiles. North Korea has been developing missiles tipped with so-called hypersonic warheads, designed to travel at more than five times the speed of sound, follow low-altitude trajectories and evade detection by changing direction mid-flight. The ballistic missile flew a distance of some 1,100 kilometers with a maximum altitude of around 100 km after it was fired northeastward from an inland area of North Korea and fell in waters east of the Korean Peninsula, according to the Japanese ministry. Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani told reporters in Jakarta during a visit to Indonesia that Tokyo has lodged a stern protest with Pyongyang over the missile test, saying that North Korea's actions, including previous missile tests, "threaten the peace and security of Japan, the region and the international community." Nakatani, who is on a four-day trip to Indonesia from Sunday, said the missile firing violates U.N. Security Council resolutions, and underscored that Japan will closely collaborate with the United States and South Korea on information analysis and surveillance. Senior officials of Japan, South Korea and the United States "strongly condemned" the North's latest missile launch in phone talks, reaffirming their close collaboration in addressing the issue, according to the Japanese government. Later on Monday, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said at his first press conference of the year in the central Japan city of Ise that the frequency of North Korea's missile firings has been "very high," expressing "grave concern" that the country might be improving its missile technology each time. Ishiba also instructed officials to swiftly provide necessary information to the public, ensure the safety of aircraft and vessels in the area, and prepare for contingencies, the Defense Ministry said. The North Korean missile launch, the first since the nation fired multiple short-range ballistic missiles on Nov. 5, came two weeks before U.S. President-elect Donald Trump takes office on Jan. 20. During his first four-year presidential term from 2017, Trump met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Singapore in June 2018, in the first-ever meeting of leaders of the two nations, although negotiations over the North's denuclearization in return for an easing of sanctions have been stalled. Late last month, Kim pledged to adopt "the toughest anti-U.S. counteraction" strategy at a meeting of the Central Committee of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea, according to state-run media. The United States is "the most reactionary state that regards anti-communism as its invariable state policy," and its alliance with Japan and South Korea "has expanded into a nuclear military bloc for aggression," Kim was quoted by the Korean Central News Agency as saying. The missile launch coincided with a visit by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Seoul for talks with his South Korean counterpart over the missile and nuclear threat from North Korea. At a joint press conference with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae Yul following their meeting in Seoul, Blinken condemned North Korea's missile launch as "another violation of multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions." Reiterating concerns over North Korea's growing cooperation with Russia, Blinken said Moscow intends to share its space and satellite technology with Pyongyang in exchange for the provision of artillery, ammunition and troops for its aggression against Ukraine. Blinken called such developments a concern for not only the United States but also South Korea and Japan. Related coverage: North Korea launches short-range missiles ahead of U.S. election North Korea fires missile as Blinken warns of Russia cooperation Seoul, Jan 6 (AFP) Jan 06, 2025 North Korea on Monday fired a missile as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited South Korea, where he warned Pyongyang was working ever closer with Russia on advanced space technology. Blinken visited as investigators were trying to arrest conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol, who has entrenched himself in his residence after being impeached for a failed attempt to impose martial law. In a reminder of common challenges that go beyond domestic politics, North Korea on Monday fired a ballistic missile to sea as Blinken was holding meetings in Seoul, pushing him to rebuke Pyongyang and its ally Russia. Both Blinken and his South Korean counterpart Cho Tae-yul condemned the launch at a joint press conference, with Washington's top diplomat calling it "another violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions". The outgoing diplomat also took aim at Russia, saying Moscow was expanding space cooperation with Pyongyang. "The DPRK is already receiving Russian military equipment and training. Now we have reason to believe that Moscow intends to share advanced space and satellite technology with Pyongyang," he told the news conference. After North Korea's missile flew around 1,100 kilometres (680 miles) before falling into the sea, Seoul said it had "strengthened surveillance and vigilance" for more launches. Seoul was also "in close coordination with the US and Japan" about the launch, the South's military added. The test comes two weeks before the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump, who in his last term sought to woo North Korea with a unique personal diplomacy. - Blinken's final tour - Blinken, on the first stop of what will likely be his final trip as the top US diplomat, met acting president Choi Sang-mok, a technocrat in office just over a week, as well as Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul, who is not under threat of impeachment. With noisy protests gripping Seoul and audible from Blinken's hotel, he steered clear of wading into partisan politics. Blinken reiterated the "ironclad commitment" of Washington to defending South Korea and spoke with Choi about "how both sides will work together to further strengthen bilateral cooperation and trilateral cooperation with Japan", a State Department statement said. Until briefly imposing martial law on December 3, Yoon had been a darling of President Joe Biden's administration for his pro-US policies on the global stage. Yoon delighted the United States by seeking to turn the page on decades of friction with Japan, a fellow US ally that is also home to thousands of US troops. Yoon joined Biden and Japan's then prime minister Fumio Kishida in 2023 for a landmark three-way summit at the Camp David presidential retreat that included a promise to step up intelligence cooperation on North Korea. Choi's office said in a statement that South Korea remained committed to the "principles and agreements from the Camp David summit". The acting president "stated that South Korea will continue to maintain its diplomatic and security policies based on a strong Korea-US alliance and trilateral cooperation among South Korea, the US and Japan". - Changes expected under Trump - South Korea's progressive opposition, which has made Yoon's life miserable from parliament and is increasingly ascendant since the president's power grab, historically has taken a harder line on Japan. Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung -- who himself faces election disqualification in a court case -- also favours more diplomatic outreach with North Korea than the hawkish Yoon. The turmoil and lack of a clear leader in Asia's fourth-largest economy comes just as the US is in the midst of its own political transition. While Biden has focused on nurturing US alliances, Trump, who takes over on January 20, has been dismissive of what he sees as unfair commitments by Washington. Trump said during his latest presidential run that if he were in power he would have strong-armed South Korea into paying $10 billion a year for the US troop presence, nearly 10 times what it contributes now. But paradoxically, Trump forged a bond with the last progressive South Korean president, Moon Jae-in, who encouraged his attempts at deal-making with North Korea. Trump, who once threatened "fire and fury" against North Korea, went on to meet three times with leader Kim Jong Un and said they "fell in love". North Korea fires missile as Blinken warns of Russia cooperation Seoul, Jan 6 (AFP) Jan 06, 2025 North Korea on Monday fired a missile as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited South Korea, where he warned Pyongyang was working ever more closely with Russia on advanced space technology. Blinken's trip came as investigators were trying to arrest conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol, who has entrenched himself in his residence after being impeached for a failed attempt to impose martial law. Blinken, who had planned to encourage South Korea to maintain Yoon's policy of enhancing cooperation with Japan, was in talks in Seoul when North Korea fired a ballistic missile that fell into the sea. The missile flew around 1,100 kilometres (680 miles), the South Korean military said. "Today's launch is just a reminder to all of us of how important our collaborative work is," Blinken said, pointing to increased three-way exercises and intelligence-sharing on North Korea. Blinken and his South Korean counterpart Cho Tae-yul condemned the launch at a joint news conference, where the outgoing US top diplomat warned that Russia was stepping up support for North Korea as a reward for its help fighting Ukraine. North Korea "is already receiving Russian military equipment and training. Now we have reason to believe that Moscow intends to share advanced space and satellite technology with Pyongyang," Blinken said. Blinken also renewed concern that Russia, a veto-wielding UN Security Council member, would formally accept North Korea as a nuclear state, which would be a major blow to global consensus that Pyongyang must end its programme. US and South Korean intelligence believe that North Korea late last year sent thousands of troops to fight against Ukraine and has already suffered hundreds of casualties. In Tokyo, where Blinken heads later Monday, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba voiced alarm that North Korea's "technology has been improving". - Changes set under Trump - The test comes two weeks before the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump, who in his last term sought to woo North Korea with a unique personal diplomacy. Trump, who once threatened "fire and fury" against North Korea, went on to meet three times with leader Kim Jong Un and said they "fell in love". President Joe Biden offered a more traditional formula of working-level talks focused on ending North Korea's nuclear programme. Blinken defended the outgoing administration's approach, saying it had reached out to North Korea and only got "more and more provocative actions, including missile launches". The tensions are "not for want of seeking engagement and trying to find a way forward through diplomacy", he said. Blinken visited by coincidence on the anniversary of the violent January 6 riot at the US Capitol by Trump's supporters, after he refused to accept defeat to Biden in the 2020 presidential election. Supporters of Yoon have waved US flags and invoked Trump by waving signs with his slogan "Stop the Steal". Blinken, whose hotel was within earshot of rowdy protests by supporters and opponents of Yoon, steered clear of taking sides in the bitterly divided country. He repeated US concern over Yoon's brief imposition of martial law on December 3 and saluted the "democratic resilience" of South Korea, without commenting on attempts to arrest the president. "The United States has full confidence in South Korea's institutions, and we reaffirm our unwavering support for the Korean people as they work tirelessly to uphold those institutions," Blinken said. - Promises of continuity - Yoon had earlier been a darling of the Biden administration. He was selected to lead a global democracy summit and delighted Washington by moving to turn the page on decades of friction with Japan, a fellow US ally that is also home to thousands of US troops. Yoon joined Biden and Japan's then prime minister Fumio Kishida in 2023 for a landmark three-way summit at the Camp David presidential retreat. South Korea's "foreign policy direction will remain unchanged. I made this clear," Cho told Blinken. Blinken also met acting president Choi Sang-mok, a technocrat in the role just over a week, whose office said that South Korea remained committed to the "principles and agreements from the Camp David summit" and to a "strong Korea-US alliance". South Korea's progressive opposition, which has made Yoon's life miserable from parliament and is increasingly ascendant since the president's power grab, historically has taken a harder line on Japan. It has also favoured a more diplomatic approach with North Korea than the hawkish Yoon. Sudan army air strike kills 10 in southern Khartoum: rescuers Port Sudan, Sudan, Jan 6 (AFP) Jan 06, 2025 Ten Sudanese civilians were killed and over 30 wounded in an army air strike on southern Khartoum, volunteer rescue workers said. The strike on Sunday targeted a market area of the capital's Southern Belt "for the third time in less than a month," said the local Emergency Response Room (ERR), part of a network of volunteers across the country coordinating frontline aid. The group said those killed burned to death. The wounded, suffering from burns, were taken to the local Bashair Hospital, with five of them in a critical condition. Since April 2023, the war between Sudan's regular army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has killed tens of thousands of people. In the capital alone, the violence killed 26,000 people between April 2023 and June 2024, according to a report by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. Khartoum has experienced some of the war's worst violence, with entire neighbourhoods emptied out and taken over by fighters. The military, which maintains a monopoly on the skies with its jets, has not managed to wrest back control of the capital from the paramilitary. Of the 11.5 million people currently displaced within Sudan, nearly a third have fled from the capital, according to United Nations figures. Both the RSF and the army have been repeatedly accused of targeting civilians and indiscriminately shelling residential areas. CORRECTED: Israel medics, army say 3 killed in West Bank shooting on vehicles Jerusalem, Jan 6 (AFP) Jan 06, 2025 Gunmen opened fire Monday on a bus and other vehicles near a village in the occupied West Bank, killing three people and wounding seven, the Israeli military and emergency services said. Violence in the West Bank has soared since the war in Gaza erupted on October 7, 2023 after Hamas's attack on Israel. "Paramedics have confirmed the deaths of three victims, including two women and a man," emergency service provider Magen David Adom said. The military reported that troops were "pursuing the terrorists" who carried out the attack near the village of Al-Funduq. "We will reach the despicable murderers and hold them, as well as anyone who assisted them, accountable," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement from his office. "No one will be spared." Magen David Adom said its paramedics were providing treatment to seven people who were on the bus, including the driver, who was in serious condition. The two women killed in the shooting were in their 60s, while the man was around 40, MDA reported. "This was a severe attack that spread across multiple scenes where vehicles and a bus were hit by gunfire," paramedic Avichai Ben Zruya said in a statement. "During our initial searches for casualties, we found two women around 60 years old in a vehicle, unconscious without pulse or breathing, with gunshot wounds," he said. "After medical assessments, unfortunately, their injuries were severe and we had to pronounce them deceased." - 'Act with force' - The military said that troops had set up roadblocks and were encircling several nearby towns to apprehend the attackers. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said he had directed the military to "act with force" to find the attackers. "We will not tolerate a Gaza-like reality in Judea and Samaria (the West Bank), and anyone who follows Hamas' path in Gaza and enables or supports the murder and harm of Jews will pay a heavy price," Katz said on X. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a far-right member of the country's ruling coalition, also warned of harsh consequences in the wake of the attack. "Funduq, Nablus and Jenin should look like Jabalia", he said in a statement, referring to a now-devastated town in northern Gaza, "so that (the central Israeli city) Kfar Saba doesn't, God forbid, become the next Gaza." Palestinian militant group Hamas, which is fighting Israeli forces in Gaza, praised the shooting attack in the West Bank. "The shooting attack ... confirms that the resistence in the West Bank will continue despite the occupation's terrorism and security measures," Hamas said in a statement. "The operation is a heroic response to the ongoing crimes and war of extermination committed by the occupation against our people." Violence in the West Bank has surged since the start of the war in Gaza. Israeli troops or settlers have killed at least 818 Palestinians in the West Bank since the war began, according to the Ramallah-based health ministry. Palestinian attacks on Israelis have also killed at least 25 people in the West Bank in the same period, according to Israeli official figures. Jihadist raid on Nigeria military base kills six soldiers Kano, Nigeria, Jan 6 (AFP) Jan 06, 2025 Jihadists linked to the Islamic State group have killed six soldiers in a raid on a military base in northeastern Nigeria, two military officers told AFP on Monday. Fighters from Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) launched a pre-dawn attack in trucks and on motorcycles on Sunday on the base in Sabon Gari in Borno State's Damboa district, the military sources said. They set fire to the base along with army vehicles, the sources said, on condition of anonymity as they are not authorised to speak on the incident. "We lost six soldiers in the ISWAP terrorists attack on the base after an intense gun battle," one of the officers said. The soldiers were forced to withdraw, the officer added. Fighter jets deployed from the regional capital Maiduguri 100 kilometres (62 miles) away struck the attackers as they retreated, said the second military officer, who gave the same toll. "Air strikes against the fleeing terrorists resulted in multiple militant fatalities, the destruction of operational vehicles and their weaponry," the officer said, without giving a toll of ISWAP casualties. Since 2009, northern Nigeria has been plagued by various jihadist groups, including Boko Haram and a rival faction the Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP), as well as armed criminal groups. Conflict has killed more than 40,000 people and displaced around two million from their homes in the northeast. In November, five Nigerian troops were killed and 10 more injured when ISWAP fighters raided a base in Kareto village near the border with Niger. Controversy in Italy over potential deal with Musk's SpaceX Rome, Jan 6 (AFP) Jan 06, 2025 The prospect of a cybersecurity deal between Rome and Elon Musk's SpaceX sparked controversy in Italy on Monday, with the government of Giorgia Meloni denying that a contract had been signed. Financial news agency Bloomberg said Italy was in "advanced talks" with SpaceX for a deal to provide secure telecommunications for the nation's government in a contract that could be worth 1.5 billion euros ($1.56 billion). In a message on his X social media platform, Musk said he was "ready to provide Italy the most secure and advanced connectivity". The prospect of the contract, which according to some media was discussed on the sidelines of Meloni's visit to Florida on Saturday to meet US President-elect Donald Trump, has provoked an opposition outcry. The head of the main opposition centre-left Democratic Party (PD), Elly Schlein, demanded on Monday that Meloni and her government "immediately report on the discussions with Musk". "If 1.5 billion euros of Italian money to use the satellites of an American billionaire in our country is the price to pay for his friendship, we do not agree," she said. In a statement published on Monday, the government "denies that contracts have been signed or that agreements have been reached between the Italian government and the company SpaceX to use the Starlink satellite communications system". "The discussions with SpaceX are part of the in-depth talks that state bodies have with companies, in this case with those dealing with protected connections," it added, acknowledging that negotiations were under way. In contrast, Meloni's office denied "categorically" media reports that stated that the contract with SpaceX was "discussed during the meeting with President-elect Donald Trump". Meloni became the latest high-profile figure to beat a path to Trump's door since he was re-elected and the Republican called her "fantastic", according to US journalists present. Musk, 53, is the richest man on the planet and spent at least $250 million on Trump's presidential election campaign. As a reward he was named head of a new body charged with cutting public spending. In an interview published on Friday by the Corriere della Sera, Meloni claimed to have "excellent relations" with Musk, whom she described as "a genius" and "an extraordinary innovator who always has his eye on the future". glr/phz/lth Libya military says air strikes target smuggling sites Zawiyah, Libya, Jan 6 (AFP) Jan 06, 2025 Libya's UN-recognised authorities have launched air strikes targeting drug trafficking and fuel smuggling hubs west of the capital, a military statement said on Monday. It remained unclear if there were casualties from the strikes in Zawiya, a city on the Mediterranean coast about 40 kilometres (25 miles) west of the capital Tripoli. Libya was plunged into chaos after a NATO-backed uprising toppled and killed strongman Moamer Kadhafi in 2011, with armed groups exploiting the situation to fund their activities through fuel smuggling and the trafficking of migrants. The Libyan Army said the air strikes "targeted and destroyed fuel trafficking sites in Zawiya, specifically in Asban," a semi-rural area outside of the city. It also called on locals to clear areas it labelled as "strongholds for trafficking and crime". In May 2023, the Tripoli-based government carried out drone strikes as part of an anti-smuggling operation, killing at least two people and injuring several others, authorities said at the time. Those strikes followed clashes between armed groups suspected of involvement in human trafficking and smuggling of fuel and other contraband goods. Libya's eastern-based parliament accused the Tripoli-based Government of National Unity of targeting the home of one of its lawmakers, an opponent of the government. Libya is divided between the Tripoli-based GNU and a rival administration in the east, backed by military strongman Khalifa Haftar. Footage posted on the army's Facebook page showed a military truck smashing into the facade of a small dwelling. Other footage showed tanks and pickup trucks mounted with machine guns driving through Zawiya. The city hosts Libya's second-largest oil refinery, with smugglers trafficking the fuel across the border into neighbouring Tunisia. I'm sorry, but ADHD has become a scam that is wildly overdiagnosed and an excuse for poor behaviour I'm sorry, but ADHD has become a scam that is wildly overdiagnosed By Miya Tanaka, KYODO NEWS - Jan 6, 2025 - 12:56 | All, World Pilar Vera, 71, has come a long way in her fight to advocate for the rights of families of air accident victims since she lost her niece in the 2008 Spanair plane crash in Madrid that claimed over 150 lives. Founding an international federation of air crash victims' families in 2015 with three associations from Spain, Pakistan and Germany, Vera has spearheaded efforts to deliver a "unified voice" of the sufferers in the hope of addressing what is too often seen in the aftermath of aircraft disasters -- inefficiencies and indifference of authorities, carriers and insurance firms. Seeking broader geographical representation, the Air Crash Victims' Families' Federation International has also brought under its wing groups of relatives affected by the shooting down of a Malaysia Airlines plane over eastern Ukraine in 2014 and a Ukrainian airliner near Tehran in 2020, while recently bonding with a family left grieving after the 1985 Japan Airlines jumbo jet crash. Vera said in an interview that her Madrid-based federation remains open to members, as she attended a symposium on air disaster assistance in the Netherlands in November with others affected, including Kuniko Miyajima, who has led the Japanese association of families of those who died in the JAL accident that took 520 lives. "Sharing experience, lessons learned and knowledge is essential to face the losses of our loved ones," said Vera, who worked in the public sector and banking industry before retiring at age 65. Vera's commitment to work both nationally and internationally to support aircraft accident victims' families and to enhance air safety was born from the Spanair Flight 5022 crash that occurred just after takeoff from a major international airport serving the Spanish capital in August 2008. From her personal experience, Vera said she felt "the chaos in the management of the emergency, before, during and after the accident and the lack of initiative from the civil aviation system to deal with the drama of the victims of air accidents and their families, beyond the compassion of the first moments." Citing the "fatigue of seeing the same script repeated in every plane crash in the world," Vera said, "I felt that I had to do more than cry and commit to change the situation of assistance to victims and their families." Her efforts have centered on seeking to influence the International Civil Aviation Organization, a U.N. agency and the aviation standard-setter, toward the creation of what she calls "a common model" in offering support to those who would be affected in aircraft accidents. While countries will have their own emergency plans activated in the event of a disaster, Vera said they are "usually general" even though aviation accidents are "complex and specialized" -- such as in cases occurring at airports where access could be restricted -- and hence require practice and learning from past mistakes. ICAO, in fact, has been dealing with family assistance issues for decades. Its assembly acknowledged in 1998 that its policy should be to ensure that the overall "well-being" of victims involved in civil aviation accidents and their families are "considered and accommodated" by the member states. It has also issued guidance for the development of family assistance plans. Such family needs from the immediate aftermath of a crash and beyond might include timely notification of a person's involvement, accurate victim identification, return of human remains, mental health counseling and a host of other issues. A collaborative approach among airlines, airport operators, government agencies and others is key for an effective response. But feeling that the guidance was "not applied" during the management of the 2008 accident of the now-defunct Spanish airline, Vera has pushed for updating ICAO regulations, embarking on what she describes as a "long, complex and difficult" process. Vera follows in the footsteps of Hans Ephraimson-Abt, who chaired a U.S. association for families of victims of a 1983 tragedy involving Korean Air Flight 007, shot down near Sakhalin in the Russian Far East, and an internationally known advocate for air-crash victims' families. He died in 2013, leaving Vera to carry on the fight. Key milestones include Vera's federation being added to ICAO's list of organizations eligible to attend certain meetings in 2016 and ICAO elevating the requirement for member states to establish legislation and policies supporting air accident victims and their families from a "recommended practice" to an international "standard" in 2022. But Vera said the implementation of the standard has been "minimal" among the 193 member states and that she feels the aviation sector is still "suspicious" that families are only interested in being compensated despite their hope to contribute to the family assistance of any future accident victims. "Although it is not a general criterion, I can say that they approach us with some fears about our suggestions. They are always looking to ensure that their states do not spend a penny on attention to victims, because that 'is a matter of the airline and its insurer,'" she said. On the final day of the three-day ICAO symposium in the Dutch city of Haarlem, Vera pleaded through a translator for the need of "far more commitment" from countries and airline operators on assistance issues, rather than just offering "sorrow." Her federation proposed measures to enhance assistance, including a best-practice guide for communicating accident information to families and media, as well as translating final investigation reports into the victims' and families' languages. After returning from the Netherlands to Tokyo, Miyajima, 77, who herself has strived to enhance the Japanese government's support to those affected in public transportation accidents, praised Vera's efforts to bring together victims' families globally. "I believe this organization will give strength and light to those currently suffering and people in the future," said Miyajima, who went through her own anguish following the loss of her 9-year-old son in the world's deadliest single aircraft accident. Miyajima said she plans to join the federation through a group that she leads and has been involved in activities supporting families affected by the JAL Flight 123 accident. Recalling her journey fraught with resistance from the aviation sector, Vera voiced exhaustion, saying, "I've been working for 16 years. I am tired." But she believes in the significance of the federation, viewing it as a steadfast advocate for air accident victims and their families, ensuring continuity even as individual family associations fade away like "soap bubbles" after accident investigations and compensation efforts conclude. "Before, I was alone, and now I'm not alone anymore. If anything happens to me, I feel confident they're going to carry on." Related coverage: 1985 JAL crash victim's kin urges disaster family support globally FOCUS: Kin of 1985 JAL crash victim shines as beacon for disaster bereaved Passenger plane crash in South Korea kills 179, 2 survivors Trump calls on Russia to do right thing after Putin agrees on need for ceasefire but has 'serious questions' on US proposals Trump calls on Putin to 'do right thing after ceasefire 'questions' Deputy chief forecaster Mike Silverstone said: The low pressure that brought the snow and heavy rain in the south will move out to the east by Monday. This will allow a cold northerly flow to become established again for much of next week. The same warning is in place for western and northern parts of Scotland for between 4pm on Monday until midday on Tuesday, and in Northern Ireland between 3pm on Monday until 11am on Tuesday. He is expected to say: If we are to meet the challenge of this age, we have to make sure that our politics works for the people we serve and that means, ultimately, doing the hard work that ensures Scotland has a Budget. Now, if the first part is in the first six months of the year, and the second is subsequent to that, even I can suggest that means it is in the second half of the year. Thats not the spring, is it? A crop of new evo G5 and M5 models carry the companys latest AI chip and come with Microsofts Copilot AI baked in. The chatbot is designed to help you troubleshoot when youre stuck in a jam, saving you having to rifle through settings. Copilot is also available on Samsungs new sets, with the company promising to add support for Googles AI down the line. Taking into account the seriousness of the conviction, the panel was satisfied that temporary removal from the register through a suspension order would serve the public interest in these particular circumstances in light of the considerable insight, remorse, and engagement with rehabilitation that you have evidenced. Soon after, he became the butt of the joke when, on a trip to India in February 2018, Mr Trudeau and his family wore a number of traditional Indian outfits during public engagements. While this may not sound so shocking, his efforts made headlines as many of the officials and stars he met opted for a more casual look. SEOUL, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's anti-corruption investigative agency will seek the extension of a warrant to arrest the impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol on Monday after a botched attempt of Yoon's arrest last week, according to multiple media outlets. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) planned to request the extension of the warrant later in the day after entrusting the National Office of Investigation (NOI) with the task of executing the warrant on Sunday. The CIO was quoted as saying that it will maintain the authority to investigate and entrust the NOI with the authority to execute the warrant while considering referring the case to the prosecution office at a certain stage. The anti-corruption investigative unit and the police have investigated Yoon's martial law imposition jointly with the defense ministry's investigation headquarters. The CIO investigators and police officers attempted to arrest the impeached president in the presidential residence on Jan. 3, but they failed as the presidential security service blocked the execution of the arrest warrant that was issued by a Seoul court. The warrant was scheduled to be valid for a week until Monday. The impeachment motion against Yoon was passed in the National Assembly on Dec. 14, 2024, and was delivered to the constitutional court to deliberate it for up to 180 days, during which Yoon's presidential power is suspended. Yoon, who was named by investigative agencies as a suspected ringleader on an insurrection charge, declared martial law on the night of Dec. 3, but it was revoked by the National Assembly hours later. Students enjoy their breakfast in Jakarta, Indonesia, Jan. 6, 2025. Indonesia launched its free meal program on Monday, a key initiative of the government led by President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, to improve the nutrition of its citizens. The initial phase is being rolled out in 26 of the country's 38 provinces, prioritizing school students as the first group to receive assistance. (Xinhua/Agung Kuncahya B.) JAKARTA, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Indonesia launched its free meal program on Monday, a key initiative of the government led by President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, to improve the nutrition of its citizens. "Our goal is to reach 3 million beneficiaries from January to April," said Dadan Hindayana, head of the National Nutrition Agency, on Monday. He emphasized that the program will be implemented in stages, with daily evaluations to ensure effective delivery. The initial phase is being rolled out in 26 of the country's 38 provinces, prioritizing school students as the first group to receive assistance. It will then include toddlers, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers. Hasan Nasbi, head of the Indonesian Presidential Communication Office, reported that 190 kitchens are currently operational to provide meals across the 26 provinces. He expressed hope that the program will achieve a target of 937 kitchens by the end of January, with an ultimate goal of 5,000 kitchens by the end of 2025, capable of serving up to 20 million beneficiaries. Staff members unload breakfast packages from a vehicle before distributing them to students in Jakarta, Indonesia, Jan. 6, 2025. Indonesia launched its free meal program on Monday, a key initiative of the government led by President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, to improve the nutrition of its citizens. The initial phase is being rolled out in 26 of the country's 38 provinces, prioritizing school students as the first group to receive assistance. (Xinhua/Agung Kuncahya B.) (250106) -- SURAKARTA, Jan. 6, 2025 (Xinhua) -- Workers prepare breakfast packages before distributing them to school in Surakarta, Central Java, Indonesia, Jan. 6, 2025. Indonesia launched its free meal program on Monday, a key initiative of the government led by President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, to improve the nutrition of its citizens. The initial phase is being rolled out in 26 of the country's 38 provinces, prioritizing school students as the first group to receive assistance. (Photo by Bram Selo/Xinhua) (250106) -- SURAKARTA, Jan. 6, 2025 (Xinhua) -- Students enjoy their breakfast in Surakarta, Central Java, Indonesia, Jan. 6, 2025. Indonesia launched its free meal program on Monday, a key initiative of the government led by President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, to improve the nutrition of its citizens. The initial phase is being rolled out in 26 of the country's 38 provinces, prioritizing school students as the first group to receive assistance. (Photo by Bram Selo/Xinhua) The centennial of the Romanian Patriarchate is a moment of great joy and gratitude for all Orthodox Romanians, an opportunity to strengthen faith and remember those who, through their sacrificial love, left us a testimony and a holy heritage, the Patriarch of the Romanian Orthodox Church (BOR), Daniel has said. "The year 2025, declared by the Holy Synod of the Romanian Orthodox Church as the commemorative year of the Centennial of the Romanian Patriarchate and the commemorative year of the Romanian Orthodox priests and martyrs of the 20th century, represents a unique moment in the history of the Romanian Orthodox Church. This anniversary is not just a celebration of the past, but also a call to acknowledge our ancestors and reflection on the role of our Church in the life of the Romanian people. The Romanian Patriarchate was, throughout its 100 years of existence, an unquenchable torch of faith and national unity, and the Romanian Orthodox priests and confessors of the 20th century were true defenders of the Orthodox faith in the face of trials and persecutions", the Patriarch pointed out on the occasion of the proclamation of the commemorative Year of the Centennial of the Romanian Patriarchate. The head of the BOR said that "this century of existence and rich activity of the Romanian Patriarchate was marked by many blessings, but also by some difficult trials, which the Romanian Orthodox Church, with God's help, overcame with patience and wisdom and hope". "Looking back at these 100 years, we see both a rich history and a beautiful spiritual legacy left by our forefathers - whether we are talking about the patriarchs who shepherded the Church wisely or the hierarchs, priests, deacons, monks and lay faithful prayers and confessors, who defended and transmitted the Orthodox faith in hard times, uniting in their souls the suffering of the Cross with the hope of the Resurrection, the tears of repentance with the joy of meeting the risen Christ", Patriarch Daniel pointed out. The Romanian Patriarchate was not only an administrative institution, but also a symbol of national, spiritual and cultural unity, he said. The investiture and enthronement of the first patriarch, Miron Cristea, on November 1, 1925, represented the establishment of the Romanian Patriarchate. The establishment of the Romanian Patriarchate was recognized internationally, especially through the Tomos of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, the official recognition of the Romanian Patriarchate by the other autocephalous Orthodox Churches, strengthening the prestige of the BOR. The European Union enters 2025 facing a set of challenges: maintaining unity amid geopolitical tensions, improving its economic competitiveness and grappling with political uncertainty in key member states. With political turmoil in Germany and France, a new European Commission and Donald Trump returning to the White House, the year will likely put the EU's resilience under serious strain. Closing the gap with competitors, continuing to support Ukraine in the face of Russia's war, maintaining a strong transatlantic relationship and improving overall defence capabilities are the main challenges facing the European Union in 2025. On the eastern flank of the 27-nation bloc, Russia has been waging a full-scale war against Ukraine since 2022. A major challenge for the EU will be to continue to support Ukraine financially, militarily and diplomatically, while at the same time bolstering its own defence capabilities. The return to power of former United States President Donald Trump in January could prove decisive. European leaders fear he could upend European security and pull the plug on support for Ukraine while simultaneously unleashing a trade war with steep tariffs on European goods. The transatlantic relationship between the US and Europe is expected to revert to a tenser state similar to Trump's first term from 2017 to 2021. The threat of tariffs will not only have brutal economic repercussions but could undermine trust in the relationship. Another hot topic in the EU will be the competitiveness of its economy, as the EU is increasingly lagging behind the United States and China, particularly in the areas of high-tech and innovation. For the EU's internal politics, a particularly significant problem is the leadership vacuum in Germany and France, its two largest member states. The two states have long been regarded as the driving forces of European integration. Another year of decisive electionsIn Germany, the government led by the Social Democratic Chancellor Olaf Scholz will remain in power until the early elections scheduled for February 23. Currently favoured by the polls, the Christian Democrat Friedrich Merz stands a chance of becoming the new German chancellor. In France, political instability followed early parliamentary elections called by President Emmanuel Macron in June. This came after the French far-right scored high in the European elections. While the far-right National Rally (RN) won the first round in the parliamentary elections, it suffered a defeat in the second round, hobbled by electoral pacts between the left and Macron's centrists. On December 13, Macron named centrist Francois Bayrou as prime minister, handing him the daunting task of hauling France out of months of political crisis. Bayrou is the sixth prime minister of Macron's mandate and France's fourth prime minister of 2024. He was appointed shortly after parliament ousted former prime minister Michel Barnier's government in a historic no-confidence vote following a standoff over an austerity budget. Meanwhile, RN President Marine Le Pen and others connected to the party are standing trial for the alleged embezzlement of EU funds by paying party employees with EU money intended to pay parliamentary assistants between 2004 and 2016. A verdict is expected to come on March 31 - the outcome is key to Le Pen's ambitions to succeed Macron as president of France in the 2027 election. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, whose country holds the rotating six-month presidency of the Council of the European Union until June, is one of those seeking to fill the Franco-German power vacuum in the EU. As are the heads of EU institutions: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa, and foreign policy chief and former Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas along with Mark Rutte, Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) military alliance. Poland is also set to hold presidential elections in May 2025. In Romania, the first round of the presidential elections in which the pro-Russian right-wing candidate Calin Georgescu scored a surprise win, was annulled amid reports of Russian interference in the election process in early December. New elections are expected to be held in February or March. Bulgaria also faces the task of forming a stable regular government, following two early parliamentary elections in 2024 - on June 9 and October 27. Since 2021, Bulgarians have been asked to vote seven times in just four years. Forming a lasting majority in parliament has proven to be particularly difficult with political entities drawing hard lines on issues such as Bulgaria's role in the EU, the country's stance on the war in Ukraine and the adoption of the Euro as the national currency. Boosting EU economic competitiveness With regard to the bloc's ailing competitiveness, the agenda of the new Commission will largely rely on a report prepared by former President of the European Central Bank and former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi in September. The Commission is expected to publish a Competitiveness Compass on January 15, which will be based on three pillars from Draghi's report: closing the innovation gap with the US and China; decarbonisation and competitiveness; and increasing economic security while reducing dependencies. In February, the Commission is expected to unveil the Clean Industry Plan which will aim to integrate climate protection with industrial policy. In order for the European economy to be able to compete with the United States and China, according to Draghi's report, additional investments of around 750 to 800 billion Euro annually are needed. Therefore, a key issue in the upcoming period will be how to secure these funds. This is closely linked to the question of the next seven-year budget, known as the multiannual financial framework (MFF) for the period 2028-2034. The Commission will present a proposal for the new MFF in the second half of this year. Funds from the current seven-year budget (2021-2027) can be drawn until 2030. Costa's innovative take on the European Council Former Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa took the helm of the European Council on December 1 and brought a fresh wind to the institution. It is the highest political body of the EU which brings together the heads of state or government of the EU member states to define the EU's overall political direction. One of the great novelties that 2025 brings for the European institutions will be the debut of innovative seminars devised by Costa. These will replace the informal summits of EU leaders. The first such seminar will be held in Belgium, at a location not yet specified, on February 3. The topic on the table will be Europe's role in defence. The Polish Council presidency has also put the emphasis on the bloc's security. The Council of the EU - not to be mistaken with the European Council - brings together ministers from each country, who meet in different configurations depending on the policy area being discussed. Costa's seminars are designed as retreats where EU leaders can engage in brainstorming sessions to express their problems and try to find solutions together. For the first seminar, Costa has invited NATO chief Rutte to breakfast and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to dinner. The first formal European Council summit of 2025 will take place on March 20 and 21 in Brussels. Four members of the European Council - from Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, and Ireland - currently hold the status of acting leaders, as governments have yet to be formed following parliamentary elections. Editorial note: the paragraph about the elections in Germany has been updated. The paragraph on the multiannual financial framework 2028-2034 has also been updated. The content is based on news by agencies participating in the European Newsroom (enr, a cooperation project between news agencies from all over Europe) - in this case AFP, ANSA, BTA, EFE, HINA. Orthodox believers will celebrate the Baptism of the Lord on Monday, with 10,000 liters of the Holy Water in 0.5 liter bottles and 5,000 packets of antidoron to be distributed at the Romanian Orthodox Patriarchal Cathedral. The Epiphany, which marks the last day of the winter holidays, is dedicated to the purification of the environment, in particular the blessing of the water. In Orthodox faith, the Feast of the Holy Epiphany commemorates the Baptism of the Lord in the Jordan River at the age of 30, before entering public life. According to tradition, on Epiphany Day the water consecration service is performed in a symbolic act of cosmic regeneration. Bucharest General Mayor Nicusor Dan, independent candidate in the presidential elections, said that clarifying all the details related to the annulment of the presidential election is more important than setting a calendar for the new election. Nicusor Dan was asked what he thinks about the statements by Crin Antonescu and Ilie Bolojan according to which the date of the elections should be established quickly. "Here I disagree both with Crin Antonescu, with Mr. Bolojan and with Mr. Kelemen Hunor. I think that, indeed, it's not normal for us to be in a provisional state, but that comes from the fact that it's not normal for us to have annulled the elections. However, it is more important to sort out than to hurry and pretend that this issue did not exist, that is, the annulment of the elections is a very important issue and the citizens of this country, in my opinion, must, before going to the polls, be convinced that the annulment measure was the right one. At the moment we don't have that clarity. (...) If we set, for example, March 23 as the date of the first round, we must have a guarantee from the institutions that a month before the first round they will come out with this clarification," Nicusor Dan told private broadcaster Digi 24. He added that he doesn't know when representatives of the Romanian state and even the Romanian president will come out to explain these things. Romania's total integration into the Schengen area will have as effect the development of the economy, being a guarantee that Romanian exports will advance strongly this year, says Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, who expresses his confidence that all obstacles generated by the difficult international context will be overcome. "The fact that we are fully in the Schengen area this year will give our economy the massive boost it needs to overcome this difficult international context. The disappearance of the crossing points on the border with Hungary and Bulgaria represents more than a symbolic moment, it is the guarantee that Romanian exports will advance strongly this year, and that means more money that will enter the accounts of our companies and a solid support for the development of the Romanian economy. The total integration of Romania into Schengen is proof that, when we persistently pursue our great national objectives, we have every reason to succeed! And I believe in our ability to overcome all obstacles together," Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu emphasized in a post on Facebook on Thursday. Romania has been a full member of the Schengen area since January 1, 2025, after 18 years since its integration into the European Union. After Romania joined the European area of free movement with air and sea borders in 2024, now the land borders are also integrated into the Schengen system. The Interior Ministers of Romania and Bulgaria were present, on New Year's Eve, at the Giurgiu Border Crossing Point to mark the accession of the two countries to the area of free movement with land borders. "It is truly a historical moment, full of political significance, but also with special practical consequences for every Romanian citizen, for Romanian and Bulgarian companies, for companies operating in the two countries, for our countries and for Europe. By entering the Schengen area, Romania's integration into the EU is complete and irrevocable", stated the Romanian Minister of the Interior, Catalin Predoiu. His Bulgarian counterpart, Atanas Ilkov, welcomed Bulgaria's and Romania's accession to Schengen land starting from January 1, 2025. "For me it is a great privilege. We have been working with you for 17 years. We succeeded and we are here to congratulate each other for the success we have together. I thank Minister Predoiu for his efforts", said the Bulgarian Minister of the Interior. The event was marked by the symbolic lifting of the barriers at the border control in Giurgiu Border Crossing. Fireworks were launched over the Giurgiu - Ruse Friendship Bridge, and several Romanian citizens crossed into the neighboring country without control at the land borders. CLAYTON Melissa Price Smith is in her second day as St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney, and she has big plans. She has already started a violent crime unit, hopes to beef up treatment court and wants to create a rocket docket to speed up some cases to reduce the county jails population. I look around at all the cases coming in every single day its astronomical, she told the Post-Dispatch on Monday morning, in one of her first interviews after her midterm appointment. The crime in St. Louis County is high, and anyone who says its not is incorrect, and thats why we need we need a strong prosecutors office. At the same time, Price Smith says she aims to despite the ultra-political road to her appointment keep politics out of the office. I am a career prosecutor, she said. I will be the first to say Im not a politician. I know I was appointed this time, but I do intend to run in two years and I intend to win in two years, not as a politician, but as a prosecutor. The new St. Louis County prosecuting attorney, the first woman to serve in the role, told the Post-Dispatch she took it on because the office needs a new vision from someone who has worked in nearly every unit of this office. Price Smith started there in 2008 and most recently headed the child abuse and sex crimes unit. She fills a vacancy that has been anticipated for months, after outgoing county Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell won a U.S. House seat in the August primary against sitting Rep. Cori Bush. In November, St. Louis County Executive Sam Page said publicly he would name Bells replacement, prompting Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey to file suit asking a judge to block Page. Bailey asserted Gov. Mike Parson, not Page, had the authority to fill the vacancy. After Page and Parson each named their replacement picks, a circuit judge heard the case and ruled in favor of Parson. Page appealed, but the appellate court again sided with Parson. The Missouri Supreme Court then declined to hear Pages second appeal. At 11 a.m. Friday, Price Smith was sworn in for her first official day on the job. And by early Monday, she was talking with the Post-Dispatch about her plans to beef up and streamline the office. She also addressed thornier issues brought up in recent weeks. After the contentious appointment process, Price Smith said she plans to work closely with Page and the county council, while keeping politics out of the office. I truly do believe that Dr. Page was trying to protect his appointing authority, not to reject me, she said. I absolutely intend to work well with Sam Page, and I hope he feels the same way, and I expect he does. He came to my swearing in. Price Smith also touted her resurrection of the violent crimes unit, which was up and running Friday, the day she was sworn in. She expects a homicide unit to take shape in the coming weeks, too. The new leader said shes also interested in reducing the countys jail population, which houses about 25% more inmates now than it did in 2021 an issue Price Smith said needs to be handled more with a scalpel, not with a hatchet. She believes improving diversion programs and treatment court will help, and wants to start what she calls rocket dockets, to focus solely on low-level nonviolent felony cases which are often put on the back burner by the courts in order to focus on the higher-level violent charges. Not only would it take care of some of the very, very crowded court dockets, it would also reduce the jail population naturally because those cases would get some attention, she said. The average caseload in the prosecuting attorneys office is 200 per attorney; the national average is 179. But she said for now, the goal is to work with what the office has by becoming more efficient. Despite those caseloads, the Post-Dispatch last month reported at least nine full-time St. Louis County assistant prosecutors, including Price Smith, work side jobs as prosecutors or judges in area municipalities. She said on Monday she resigned from her side job as prosecuting attorney in Overland a few days ago but would continue to allow her attorneys to moonlight. For as long as I can remember, prosecutors have often had second jobs, in particular ... as prosecutors or even judges in these small municipal courts, she said. Its always been allowed in the office as long as the person who is doing that extra work takes PTO and accounts for it. Price Smith said she knows shell make mistakes and face criticism as she shapes the office she envisions. But I can tell you each day Im going to do the next right thing, she said. And my goal is to make this a strong prosecutors office to hold violent offenders accountable and give victims a voice. JAKARTA, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- The Indonesian government has expedited the commencement of production at the country's largest oil refinery in Balikpapan town of East Kalimantan province, a minister announced on Monday. Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia has instructed officials at the refinery to begin production in July, ahead of the initial target of September, according to the acting Director General of Oil and Gas at the ministry Dadan Kusdiana. "The minister requested the production to start in July to bolster domestic energy security after a meeting with the state-owned oil and gas company PT Pertamina, which manages the refinery," said Kusdiana on Monday. Deputy President Director of PT Pertamina Wiko Migantoro said that the refinery's capacity would increase by 100,000 barrels per day, bringing its total daily capacity to 360,000 barrels. The refinery, part of Indonesia's Refinery Development Master Plan, is a national strategic initiative. Utility companies could base customers rates on projected expenses rather than actual costs under legislation critics worry would increase Missourians bills. Several bills filed ahead of the Missouri General Assemblys legislative session, which starts Wednesday, would apply the new ratemaking standard to gas, water and sewer but not electric utilities. Lawmakers considered similar bills last year, but they did not make it to final passage. Currently, utilities rely on audited past expenses called a test year to set rates. Supporters of the legislation say using a historic test year means the information used to set customers rates is dated. A future test year, they argue, uses more current information. Just as a business or even the state of Missouri plans with the budgeting looking ahead, this method allows regulators to set rates based on updated information, Sen. Mike Cierpiot, a Lees Summit Republican, said in a committee hearing last year. Cierpiot, who has again filed a bill mandating use of a future test year, did not return requests for comment. Critics say it would inflate Missouri utility bills. Essentially, its an accounting trick by monopoly utilities to take a little extra money out of your pocket, said John Coffman, an attorney for the Consumers Council of Missouri. Coffman estimated utility rates could climb by more than 10% under the legislation. During the same hearing last year, Coffman called the legislation anti-consumer and said it amounted to a rate increase piece of legislation. For-profit utility companies in Missouri are highly regulated because of their status as a monopoly. Every few years, they propose new rates to the Missouri Public Service Commission, which must sign off before companies change prices. Staff of the Public Service Commission, along with consumer and environmental advocates, are allowed to analyze the requested change and voice their opinions. Public hearings are held before the new rates can go into effect. The rate-setting process, supporters of the future test year legislation argue, should look ahead to upcoming expenses, not to past costs. Christine Page, director of government and external affairs for Missouri American Water, said in a committee hearing last year that using a future test year would make for a more collaborative process. Page said if Missouri American Water, which provides water to 1.6 million Missouri residents, were planning to invest in its infrastructure, stakeholders would be able to give input ahead of construction about how much is appropriate for the utility to spend. Of the 13 states where American Water operates, Page said, nine use a future test year in ratemaking. In a statement Friday, the companys spokeswoman, Christie Barnhart, called the legislation vital to addressing the critical water and wastewater infrastructure needs of our state. These bills would allow for a more aggressive replacement of aging infrastructure before it has outlived its useful life, which is both more efficient from a cost standpoint and reduces service interruptions to the customer, Barnhart said. Jason Merrill, a spokesman for Spire Missouri, said the company supports the legislation. Rather than rates being set on dated financial information, this would allow utilities to plan budgets in real time and regulators to set rates based on more current data, Merrill said. But that regulatory lag, Coffman said, is good for consumers. He argues its an incentive for utilities to keep their costs down. With a future test year, Coffman said, the incentives flip. The incentives become like a government where they have a budget, and if you dont spend it, you lose it so it flips the incentives from one that encourages cost control and cost management to one where the incentives are to spend all the money you can, he said. Ameren Missouri, which provides both electricity and gas service to Missouri customers, said in a statement that it supported the idea of a future test year. Currently several large new users of electricity that could provide thousands of jobs and billions of dollars of investment are considering Missouri as a place to locate, said Warren Wood, Amerens vice president of regulatory affairs. To seize on these economic development opportunities and to continue to be a leader in reliable and affordable electricity, new generation plants are critically needed. The bill is one of several introduced for the coming session that could affect utility rates. Another would allow utilities to start charging customers for new electric generation facilities that are still under construction. Last year, Senate Majority Leader Cindy OLaughlin filed legislation meant to stop mandatory time-of-use pricing for electric utilities after Evergy rolled out new rates that quadrupled in price during times of peak power demand. In a statement, OLaughlin didnt take a position on the test year legislation. Utility policy is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of both the needs of consumers and the challenges utilities face in providing reliable service, she said. 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. A great editorial cartoonist often can, with a single satiric drawing, make a more effective and compelling argument than a full-blown editorial or opinion column can. No one working today is better at it than Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist Ann Telnaes of The Washington Post. At least, thats where she worked until Friday. Telnaes announced on Substack Friday night that shes quitting because her editors killed a cartoon that depicted caricatures of several well-known media plutocrats including Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos bowing and offering bags of money to a huge statue of President-elect Donald Trump. Since 2017, a few years after Bezos acquired the Post, its masthead has declared: Democracy Dies in Darkness. Indeed it does. And this is the second time in less than three months that one of Americas most storied newspapers has dimmed its own lights in betrayal to that lofty ethos. The first time was in late October, when the Posts publisher quashed an editorial endorsement of Kamala Harris right before the presidential election. It was reportedly ordered by Bezos himself, whose government-related business interests undoubtedly would have suffered for such a stance under Trumps second term. This kind of preemptive capitulation by a national newspaper to an incoming president is part of a wider pattern one that potentially threatens press freedoms even more than Trump himself does. Trump has never bothered hiding his contempt for the free press. Enemies of the people, and so forth. But as dangerous as Trump clearly would like to be to press freedoms, hes not nearly as dangerous as is the in-house pliability weve already seen from The Washington Post and others. Theres ABC News and its parent company, Disney, which recently folded like a cheap lawn chair to settle a weak, hairsplitting defamation suit from Trump for $15 million over its reporting of his adjudicated civil liability for the sexual abuse of writer E. Jean Carroll. Theres the owner of the Los Angeles Times, Patrick Soon-Shiong, who, like Bezos, quashed an editorial endorsement of Harris right before the election, spiking the longstanding journalistic principle that editorial independence is sacrosanct. Theres Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg and Open AI CEO Sam Altman, who, like other tech giants facing Trumps belligerent threats to crack down on tech platforms, have donated $1 million each to Trumps inaugural fund. Think of it as ransom money. Telnaes typically incisive cartoon presents hilarious caricatures of all of them Bezos, Zuckerberg, Soon-Shiong, Altman and (I love this part) a prostrate Mickey Mouse shamelessly scraping and bowing to their Trumpian idol, bags of money in hand. To those in other professions, it might sound like common sense that you dont publicly lampoon the boss by, say, pinning a cartoon drawing of him to the bulletin board in the break room. This isnt that. Journalism isnt other professions and Bezos isnt other bosses. As founder of Amazon and currently the worlds second-wealthiest person, he has been newsworthy since long before he acquired The Washington Post, for reasons that have nothing to do with the newspaper. Journalistically, hes fair game. In her Substack post, Telnaes stressed that the spiking of the cartoon wasnt part of the typical back-and-forth process of honing material that always goes on between journalists and their editors. To be clear, there have been instances where sketches have been rejected or revisions requested, she wrote, but never because of the point of view inherent in the cartoons commentary. Thats a game changer...and dangerous for a free press. Washington Post opinions editor David Shipley told The New York Times it was his decision to kill the cartoon. He said it wasnt a reflection of a malign force, but was guided by the fact that we had just published a column on the same topic as the cartoon and had already scheduled another column The only bias was against repetition. Oh please. Whatever spin Telnaes editors want to put on it, the sick punchline remains the same: A cartoon rightly pointing out the dangerous hold the incoming president has over top media moguls was blocked from publication by wait for it! one of those top media moguls (or by those who answer to him). Editors, of all people, should know you cant spin that. It must be noted that The Washington Post has for years now published some of the most important reporting establishing Trumps fundamental unfitness for office, including its running tab of his more than 30,000 public lies during his first term. It must also be noted that as recently as October, the newspaper allowed Telnaes to run a cartoon in response to the quashed Harris endorsement, sarcastically headlined Democracy Dies in Darkness, that featured an entirely blacked-out square. None of which mitigates this latest infringement on editorial independence. If anything, it illustrates a dangerous slippage in our top journalistic institutions on the cusp of Trumps return: Even the newspaper that broke Watergate is, as Telnaes writes, trying to get in the good graces of an autocrat-in-waiting. And thats as dark as it gets. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin welcomes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Sept. 6, 2024. Austin is slated to lead discussions at the base Jan. 9, 2025, his final meeting of the group. (Stars and Stripes) STUTTGART, Germany Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin this week will hold his final meeting of a group of about 50 countries that banded together to support Ukraine against Russias 2022 invasion. Austin is slated to lead Ukraine Defense Contact Group discussions Thursday at Ramstein Air Base, where Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to make an appeal for more air defense systems. During the gathering of defense ministers and military leaders, Austin will reaffirm the United States enduring commitment to Ukraine, the Pentagon said. Secretary Austin will focus on delivering practical and coordinated support that reinforces Ukraines ability to defend itself today and deter aggression in the future, Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh said Friday. Yet the durability of U.S. military support for Ukraine is in question, as is the fate of the body known informally as the Ramstein group. In two weeks, President-elect Donald Trump will take office and could bring with him a policy overhaul in how the United States approaches the war in Ukraine. While it is not clear yet whether Trump will halt U.S. military aid to Kyiv, he has expressed opposition before and said he intends to bring Russia and Ukraine to the negotiating table in an attempt to end the war, which began Feb. 24, 2022. Trump hasnt laid out how he intends to pursue peace, but his team is said to be considering a plan that would see European troops in charge of a demilitarized zone in Ukraine. The proposal, reported by The Wall Street Journal in November, would have the U.S. continue to provide arms to Ukraine in exchange for sizable territorial concessions and a deferment of Ukrainian NATO ambitions. So far, Zelenskyy hasnt indicated any interest in ceding territory to Russia, which occupies a swath of Ukraine that is roughly the size of Pennsylvania. But the Ukrainian leader is in a difficult spot given a worsening manpower shortage for his armed forces and his countrys dependence on American military support. Zelenskyy said he will press Ukraines backers at the Ramstein meeting, emphasizing the need for more missile and anti-aircraft systems. We will talk to them about this, he said Saturday in an address to his country. We will convince them. Life needs protection here and now in Ukraine. Tupu Lamar Hawkins, 17, was last seen leaving the Sagamihara Family Housing Area at 3:16 a.m. Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. (Tauai-upolu Tupu) TOKYO The U.S. Army is requesting help finding a teenager who went missing near Camp Zama early Monday. Tupu Lamar Hawkins, 17, has been determined to be at significant risk by law enforcement, according to a missing person alert issued by the Army Criminal Investigation Division that evening. Hawkins was last seen leaving the Sagamihara Family Housing Area at 3:16 a.m., the Army said. He may have been walking toward the nearest 7/11 convenience store. Hawkins is approximately 5-foot-9 with black hair and brown eyes, according to the alert. He was wearing a blue sweatshirt, blue jeans and brown dress shoes. Any person having credible information regarding this missing person should contact the Army CID Far East Field Office/Japan at (571) 637-8561, the alert said. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Army CID at www.cid.army.mil/tips. Soldiers assigned to the 152nd Engineer Support Company stand in formation during their farewell ceremony, Connecticut Street Armory, Buffalo, N.Y., Jan. 2, 2025. (Jason Carr/New York Army National Guard ) New York Army National Guard soldiers are preparing for a 10-month deployment to Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti. They will train at Fort Bliss, Texas, for four weeks before deploying to Africa. One hundred and forty-five soldiers from the 152nd Engineer Support Company were sent off with a formal ceremony at the Connecticut Street Armory in Buffalo, N.Y., on Jan. 2. While overseas you are representing not just yourself, but our country as a whole and the New York Army National Guard, said Maj. Gen. Ray Shields, the adjutant general of New York. Deploying as a unit is a team sport. Soldiers assigned to the 152nd Engineer Support Company stand in formation during their farewell ceremony, Connecticut Street Armory, Buffalo, N.Y., Jan. 2, 2025. (Jason Carr/New York Army National Guard ) Soldiers assigned to the 152nd Engineer Support Company stand in formation in front of friends and family during their farewell ceremony, Connecticut Street Armory, Buffalo, N.Y., Jan. 2, 2025. (Jason Carr/New York Army National Guard ) Soldiers assigned to the 152nd Engineer Support Company stand in formation during their farewell ceremony, Connecticut Street Armory, Buffalo, N.Y., Jan. 2, 2025. (Jason Carr/New York Army National Guard ) The Adjutant General of the New York National Guard Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Shields addresses Soldiers assigned to the 152nd Engineer Support Company during a farewell ceremony, Connecticut Street Armory, Buffalo, N.Y., Jan. 2, 2025. (Jason Carr/New York Army National Guard ) Soldiers assigned to the 152nd Engineer Support Company stand in formation in front of friends and family during a farewell ceremony held in the drill hall of Connecticut Street Armory, Buffalo, N.Y., Jan. 2, 2025. (Jason Carr/New York Army National Guard ) 53rd Troop Command patch, the General Command Unit governing the 152nd Engineer Support Company during a farewell ceremony at Connecticut Street Armory, Buffalo, N.Y., Jan. 2 2025. (Jason Carr/New York Army National Guard ) The soldiers have been training for this mission for the past six months at Fort Drum, N.Y., and other training areas, according to Capt. Daniel Roche, the company commander. While deployed, the company will work on base security improvements and buildings related to soldier welfare and operations. The soldiers are expected to return home in November. You are deploying as part of the greatest team our nation has: the U.S. Army, Shields said. Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa has a strength of about 2,000 personnel from across the U.S. military operates in Sudan, Somalia, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Seychelles and Kenya. More than 20 Pennsylvania National Guard Soldiers from the 528th Finance Company, 213th Regional Support Command are honored in a departure ceremony on Jan. 4, 2025. (Wayne Hall/Pennsylvania National Guard) Pennsylvania National Guard soldiers will deploy for a year to the Middle East in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, the U.S.-led military mission set up a decade ago to combat Islamic State militants in Iraq and Syria. You have a critical role as a finance unit in supporting combat operations, said Col. Jeremy M. Coleman, commander, 213th Regional Support Group. Your contributions directly impact the success of the mission and the welfare and safety of other deployed soldiers. More than 20 soldiers from the 528th Finance Company, 213th Regional Support Command were honored in a departure ceremony on Saturday in Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., with families and loved ones in attendance, according to a news release. During the last year, Iranian-backed forces have launched one-way attack drones, rockets and missiles at U.S. facilities in Iraq in response to Israels military operations in Gaza and Lebanon. In December, U.S. forces killed 12 Islamic State militants in airstrikes on Syria-based ISIS camps. Washington has had a continuous presence in Iraq since its 2003 invasion. Although all U.S. combat forces left in 2011, thousands of troops returned in 2014 to help the Iraqi government defeat ISIS. People mourn during a funeral of a Palestinian teenager who was killed by Israeli soldiers in Askar refugee camp in the West Bank city of Nablus, on Jan. 6, 2025. More than 820 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli gunfire and bombings across the West Bank since October 2023, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. (Photo by Nidal Eshtayeh/Xinhua) RAMALLAH, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- A Palestinian teenager was killed on Sunday by Israeli army gunfire during an incursion into the Azzam refugee camp, east of Nablus in the northern West Bank, the Palestinian Ministry of Health said in a statement. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society reported that its teams received the teenager, critically wounded by live ammunition to the chest, from the Israeli army at the Azzam refugee camp. According to local Palestinian sources, Israeli forces raided the camp with gunfire. More than 820 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli gunfire and bombings across the West Bank since October 7, 2023, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. Meanwhile, data from Gaza-based health authorities indicate that by the end of December 2024, the Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks in Gaza had risen to 45,399. People mourn during a funeral of a Palestinian teenager who was killed by Israeli soldiers in Askar refugee camp in the West Bank city of Nablus, on Jan. 6, 2025. More than 820 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli gunfire and bombings across the West Bank since October 2023, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. (Photo by Nidal Eshtayeh/Xinhua) Sailors aboard the destroyer USS Oscar Austin attach a cargo hook to an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter during a replenishment drill on Dec. 16, 2024, in the Mediterranean Sea. (Jasmin L. Aquino/U.S. Navy) NAPLES, Italy U.S. Navy presence in the Mediterranean Sea is at its lowest in years, an indication the service is feeling the pinch of sustaining the fleet following long overseas deployments, analysts say. There isnt a carrier strike group or amphibious ready group in the region, a notable change since the near-constant presence of at least one of those groups in the Mediterranean since December 2022. The Navy hasnt said if it plans to send more ships to Europe anytime soon. Last week, a single destroyer, USS Oscar Austin, was on patrol in the eastern Mediterranean, USNI News reported on Dec. 30. The only other Navy ships in the area on Friday appeared to be the fast-attack submarine USS Indiana, the oiler USS Laramie and the expeditionary sea base USS Woody Williams. In 2022, naval presence in the Mediterranean and Black seas reached highs not seen since the Cold War as Russia prepared to invade Ukraine and the service surged forces to the region. The destroyer USS Oscar Austin fires the Mark 45 5-inch gun during a gunnery exercise Dec. 20, 2024, in the Mediterranean Sea. (Jasmin L. Aquino/U.S. Navy) Sailors aboard the destroyer USS Oscar Austin attach a cargo hook to an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter during a replenishment drill on Dec. 16, 2024, in the Mediterranean Sea. (Jasmin L. Aquino/U.S. Navy) While some of those ships subsequently returned stateside, the Navys force in the region largely remained constant, increasing in the aftermath of Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023 amid concerns of a wider conflict. The reasons behind the Navys current ship allocation in the Mediterranean are varied and complex, analysts said. For example, its common for many ships to return to port during the holidays. And with a cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, theres less likelihood of a sudden crisis. Meanwhile, the service is fighting Iranian-backed Houthi militants threatening ships in the Red Sea, among other competing priorities that are drawing resources. But ultimately, the reduction in forces on patrol in the eastern Mediterranean boils down to having a fleet that is inadequately sized to meet demand, analysts said. Presence in the Mediterranean is partly threat-driven and situation-driven, and its all conditioned by (the fact that) there arent enough ships in the Navy, said Bradley Martin, a retired Navy surface warfare officer and director of the Rand Corp. National Security Supply Chain Institute. With limited U.S. ashore bases in the region, the presence of a carrier in the eastern Mediterranean offers more flexibility. It also signals to Russia and other competitors that the U.S. is militarily committed to the region, naval experts said. The European theater and the mischief and war-making at work in that theater demands a strong U.S. response in concert with (allies), said Bryan McGrath, managing director of the Maryland-based national security and defense consulting firm the Ferry Bridge Group. One of the ways you deter another power is to show that other power that you are willing to risk things that are important to you, McGrath added. That is the essence of deterrence, and we dont routinely do that. That doesnt mean the U.S. lacks the resources to respond to a crisis in the region, Martin and other analysts pointed out. In addition to Oscar Austin, four other destroyers are based at Rota, Spain, and could be in the area within days. Air Force planes from Aviano Air Base in northern Italy and other locations in Europe and the Middle East could be used if needed. And navies from NATO countries, such as Italy, France, Greece and Spain, regularly patrol the Mediterranean. Its a little awkward that we dont have something in the eastern Med for anyone that likes having the reassurance of a surface ship, said Michael Bohnert, a Rand Corp. analyst. But from a military and a practical perspective, its perfectly fine. Still, multiple extended deployments have taken a toll on Navy ships and played havoc with maintenance and repair schedules, said Bryan Clark, director of the Hudson Institutes Center for Defense Concepts and Technology. For example, the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower spent roughly nine months deployed, fending off Houthi attacks at a combat tempo unseen in decades. The Navy also extended the deployments of the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford and the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, among other ships and groups. Those extended deployments hurt an already tight maintenance and repair schedule, creating a domino effect of delays exacerbated by the need for additional work from the wear and tear of having a ship at sea for a longer period, Clark said. The Navy worked a lot of ships hard over the last year-and-a-half with whats going on in Israel and the Middle East, Clark said. Those operations put a huge stress on the force. In 2024, the services deployable battle force was estimated to be 293, down three from the year before, Stars and Stripes reported in March 2023. That number includes 11 aircraft carriers in various cycles of operation, deployment and maintenance. Three carriers USS George Washington, USS Carl Vinson and USS Harry S. Truman are now deployed. In the final analysis, shortage of ships and manpower explains why the service has fewer ships in the Mediterranean, said McGrath, who served 21 years in the Navy, including as commander of the destroyer USS Bulkeley. He advocates for a constant carrier and amphibious presence in Europe, the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific. Those three major areas of the world are where the U.S. has enduring interests. Yet we have a Navy barely sized to accomplish our desires in two regions, he said. If we were to be, in any one of those three areas or some combination thereof, actually at war, we are in desperate trouble, McGrath added. Airmen with the 35th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron unload an AIM-120 advanced medium-range air-to-air missile during training at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Oct. 30, 2020. (Stephany Johnson/U.S. Air Force) The U.S. government has proposed selling 1,200 advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles to Japan to help counter threats in the Indo-Pacific region. The State Department approved the sale of up to 1,200 AIM-120 (D-3/C-8) advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles, or AMRAAMs; up to 20 AIM-120D-3 guidance sections; and up to four AIM-120C-8 guidance sections, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced in a news release Thursday. The proposed sale is worth an estimated $3.64 billion. The AMRAAM is an improved version of the AIM-7 Sparrow missile and is capable of striking targets beyond visual range. All U.S. fighters, and those sold to its allies, may carry the AMRAAM, according to the Air Force. Pilots may fire several missiles simultaneously at several targets, then take evasive action while the missiles guide themselves to detonation. The sale would include warheads, propulsion equipment, AIM-120 captive air training missiles, spare and repair parts, technical documentation and support, the release said. The missiles will improve Japans capability to meet current and future threats by defending its homeland and U.S. personnel stationed there, according to the release. The approval comes as Japan continues to beef up its defense spending. The government in 2022 set a target of spending 2% of Japans gross domestic product for defense, aiming to strengthen its deterrence capabilities in a security environment made uncertain by an assertive China. The missiles would give Japan a chance in aerial combat against China, North Korea or Russia, but the sale is just one step of many that Japan needs to take to prepare to fight a war, retired Marine Col. Grant Newsham, a senior researcher with the Japan Forum for Strategic Studies in Tokyo, told Stars and Stripes via email Monday. This alone is not going to deter Japans enemies very much, he wrote. It will give them something to think about and it will make [Japans Air Self-Defense Force] more deadly, but by itself it isnt a game-changer. The department notified Congress of the proposed sale on Thursday, the release said. Lawmakers will have 15 days to review the sale, according to the Arms Export Control Act. State Department spokesman Andrew Strike in an email Monday declined to comment on the sale beyond the release. Last month, Japans government approved the countrys largest-ever defense budget for this year at 8.7 trillion yen, or about $54.8 billion a 9.7% increase from 2024s budget of 7.95 trillion yen, or about $50.1 billion. The increase marks the 13th consecutive year of increased military spending and is also on track with Japans defense buildup plan and its goal to gradually increase its defense budget to 8.9 trillion yen, or about $56.1 billion, by fiscal 2027. Japans fiscal year begins in April. The proposed sale also follows a plan between the two countries to increase production of Patriot Advanced Capability-3 interceptors, or PAC-3 missiles, and advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and their Japanese counterparts committed to the plan during security talks in Tokyo in July. In July, the defense ministry announced that the U.S. would purchase approximately $19.6 million worth of PAC-3 missiles from Japan to help replenish stocks depleted due to U.S. support for Ukraine. Japans Ministry of Defense did not immediately respond to questions emailed on Monday. Stars and Stripes reporter Keishi Koja contributed to this report. As the global supply chain undergoes rapid restructuring, many Chinese companies are expanding into overseas markets at an unprecedented speed and scale. Anhui is no exception. Companies such as Chery Automobile, China Railway No.4 Engineering Group, and Sungrow are accelerating their overseas efforts, whether through local acquisitions, joint ventures, or participation in key overseas projects. How can they expand more efficiently overseas? Anhui has proposed a new solution joining forces for overseas expansion. On December 20, 2024, the Huipai Enterprises International Economic and Trade Cooperation Alliance was established, providing greater potential for Anhui companies international ventures. The alliance consists of 94 founding members, with Chery Automobile and China Railway No.4 Engineering Group as the main initiators, along with companies, institutions, and business associations like Conch Group and Tongling Nonferrous Metals. According to the alliance's draft charter, it aims to provide specialized services for Anhui enterprises participating in international economic and trade cooperation, establish a cooperation and exchange platform, promote information and resource sharing, and offer comprehensive support for companies investing abroad and engaging in economic activities, thereby enhancing the international brand image of Anhui enterprises and boosting their overseas competitiveness. In the first 11 months of 2024, Anhui's actual foreign investment reached $2.42 billion, an increase of 14.6%, ranking 8th nationally and 1st in Central China, with a growth rate exceeding the national average by 3.4 percentage points. From January to October 2024, 161 domestic entities in Anhui established 220 new overseas enterprises, a year-on-year increase of 61.8%, with 118 of these entities venturing into foreign investment for the first time. The establishment of the Huipai Enterprises International Economic and Trade Cooperation Alliance lays a promising foundation for Anhui enterprises overseas endeavors in 2025. In the new year, as they join hands, they are sure to leave a significant mark for Anhui in even more distant lands. Source: Anhui Daily Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, holds talks with President of the Congress of Peru Eduardo Salhuana at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 6, 2025. (Xinhua/Ding Lin) BEIJING, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, held talks with President of the Congress of Peru Eduardo Salhuana here on Monday. Zhao said that China is willing to work with Peru to implement the important outcomes of heads-of-state diplomacy, push forward the China-Peru comprehensive strategic partnership, and bring more benefits to the two countries and two peoples. Noting that deepening China-Peru friendly cooperation is the common expectation of the two peoples, Zhao said that the legislative bodies of the two countries should contribute to promoting the steady and long-term development of bilateral relations. The NPC of China is willing to work with the Congress of Peru to strengthen exchanges between high-level officials, special committees, bilateral friendship groups and more, deepen mutual learning on governance experience, enhance mutual understanding and friendship, and support each other in pursuing development paths suited to their respective national conditions, he said. Chancay port in Peru, a landmark China-Peru cooperation project, will help promote the high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road between China and Peru as well as China and Latin America, Zhao said, adding that it is hoped that the Congress of Peru will continue to support the construction of the port. "China and Peru have carried out fruitful cooperation in fields such as energy, mining, infrastructure construction and communications, and are actively exploring ways to expand cooperation on digital economy, green development and artificial intelligence. It is hoped that the legislatures of the two countries will jointly create a sound legal environment for China-Peru practical cooperation," Zhao said. Salhuana said Peru firmly abides by the one-China principle, and is willing to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation with China in economy, trade, investment, electricity, infrastructure, culture and other fields. All parties of the Congress of Peru support deepening bilateral relations with China, and are willing to strengthen friendly exchanges with the NPC of China to make legislative contributions to the development of bilateral relations, Salhuana said. Zhao Leji, chairman of China's National People's Congress Standing Committee, holds talks with President of the Congress of Peru Eduardo Salhuana at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 6, 2025. (Xinhua/Ding Lin) Protesters hold photos of hostages held in the Gaza Strip and 100 light sticks to symbolize 100 hostages held by Hamas during a rally calling for a hostages deal on Jan. 4, 2025, in Tel Aviv, Israel. (Amir Levy, Getty Images via TNS) (Tribune News Service) Hamas disclosed a list of 34 hostages its willing to return to Israel in the first phase of a potential ceasefire in Gaza, which the U.S. wants to achieve before President Joe Biden leaves office in two weeks. The Palestinian militant group circulated the list to Bloomberg and other media outlets, but didnt clarify whether each person is alive or dead. The return of only living hostages in the first phase of a deal is one of Israels demands in fresh negotiations aimed at pausing the devastating war. The U.S. says its working intensely to achieve a deal before Biden hands over to Donald Trump on Jan. 20. There are still plenty of obstacles for the warring sides to overcome. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement Monday saying the list originated with Israel, not Hamas. Israel gave it to mediators in July, he said. As yet, Israel has not received any confirmation or comment by Hamas regarding the status of the hostages appearing on the list, he said. Israel will continue to act relentlessly for the return of all of our hostages. At least two of the 34 people are dead, a Hamas official said. As well as killing 1,200 people, Hamas took about 250 hostage when it raided southern Israel in October 2023, triggering the war. Israels air and ground assault on the Palestinian territory has killed more than 45,000 people, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Roughly 100 hostages are still in Gaza, though that figure includes both the living and the dead. Hamas said it would need a week of ceasefire to reach out to operatives holding the hostages and learn about their condition, a request Israel has rejected. Its also possible that some of them are held captive by militant groups other than Hamas, designated a terrorist group by the U.S. and many other countries. Other areas of contention include which Palestinian prisoners will be released from Israeli jails. The negotiations have sputtered along since Biden unveiled a three-phase plan in May to end a conflict that ignited other fronts and put Israel and Iran sponsor of regional proxy groups such as Hamas on a collision course. Were working very hard to bring that over the finish line, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said from the South Korean capital Seoul on Monday. And what weve seen in the last couple of weeks is a re-intensified engagement, including by Hamas, but we have yet to see agreement on the final points. Blinken said if the negotiations arent successful in the next fortnight, he hopes Trump will manage to get a ceasefire done soon after. Hamas and Israel also disagree on what comes after the first part of a pause. Hamas wants Israeli forces to withdraw from Gaza, while Israel says it wants to resume fighting to ensure the group is destroyed and unable to hold power in any part of the territory. Both sides are mindful of the inauguration of Trump, who has warned there will be all hell to pay if hostages arent freed by the time he returns to the Oval Office. There are a number of issues on which there has been progress, Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen, a member of the countrys decision-making security cabinet, told Army Radio on Sunday. With that, there are significant gaps on some of the issues. We hope that the gaps will be reduced in the discussions now being held in Qatar. The director of Israels spy agency Mossad, David Barnea, is preparing to go to the Qatari capital Doha on Monday or Tuesday, depending on developments, according to officials, another sign of possible progress. Hamas has suffered huge losses in the past 15 months, but its still able to launch rockets at Israel, including six times in the past week. Those salvos were mostly shot down or fell into empty space, though raised alarm among Israelis who had assumed such attacks were no longer possible. On Monday, three rockets were fired with one hitting a home in the town of Sderot. Israel, meanwhile, said three people were killed in a shooting attack in the West Bank. Terrorists opened fire toward a civilian bus and vehicles, the Israeli military said on Monday. With assistance from Dan Williams and Courtney McBride. 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Visit bloomberg.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. A U.S. Air Force A-10 Warthog provides combat air support for Operation Inherent Resolve in 2015 in Iraq. On Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, U.S. Central Command announced U.S.-led strikes against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, including strikes by A-10s that were successful in eliminating ISIS fighters within a cave. (Perry Aston/U.S. Air Force) WASHINGTON The U.S. military led strikes against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria in the past week that resulted in the capture of an ISIS leader but caused the death of a non-U.S. coalition soldier and injured two non-U.S. personnel, U.S. Central Command said Monday. CENTCOM and Iraqi forces conducted multiple strikes from Dec. 30 to Jan. 6 in the Hamrin mountains of Iraq against ISIS locations. During the operations, ISIS fighters engaged coalition forces. But the U.S.-led coalition forces conducted airstrikes using F-16s, F-15s and A-10s. The A-10s tasked to support ground forces in the area were successful in eliminating the ISIS fighters within a cave, according to CENTCOM. The coalition member killed and the two wounded were from two different countries. CENTCOM did not name the countries but said there no injuries to U.S. personnel or damage to U.S. equipment. On Jan. 2-3, Syrian Democratic Forces supported by American forces conducted a strike against ISIS militants near Dayr az-Zawr in Syria resulting in the capture of an ISIS attack cell leader. Partnered operations like these are critical to maintaining pressure on ISIS and preventing the terrorist group from taking advantage of the rapidly changing security environment in the region, said Army Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, commander of CENTCOM, which oversees U.S. military operations in the Middle East. The U.S. has stepped up airstrikes against ISIS targets in Syria in the wake of the fall of former President Bashar al-Assads government last month. Syria remains unstable following the collapse of Assads regime, with rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham looking to install a new government. The U.S. now has about 2,000 troops in Syria as part of an American-led coalition in that country and Iraq working to prevent a resurgence of ISIS. The Pentagon previously reported 900 U.S. service members, and an undisclosed number of contractors are operating in Syria, where they support local Kurdish forces. An additional 2,500 American troops are in Iraq. Soldiers with the Indiana National Guard provide security during the 2021 inauguration in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 20, 2021. (Sgt. Tackora Hand/U.S. Army National Guard) WASHINGTON Nearly 8,000 National Guard troops have been requested by the U.S. Secret Service to provide support for the presidential inauguration Jan. 20, the Pentagon said. The request for 7,800 troops, said Sabrina Singh, deputy spokeswoman for the Defense Department, is expected to be approved by the Pentagon in the coming days. The Secret Service is the lead agency for the inauguration. Once approved, the troops will join 500 National Guards troops already approved to support security operations during the counting and certification of electoral votes on Monday. Barriers, shown here on Jan. 6, 2024, have been placed around the Capitol ahead of the Jan. 20 inauguration. (Robert H. Reid/Stars and Stripes) Layers of tall black fencing flank the U.S. Capitol complex in a stark reminder of what happened four years ago, when thousands of supporters of President-elect Donald Trump rioted, battled police and stormed the building. As Trump prepares to return to office, no violence, protests or procedural objections in Congress are expected this time. The 2025 presidential inauguration was designated a national special security event by the secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. When an event is designated as a special security event, the federal government, as well as state and local partners, can funnel significant resources to ensure a robust security plan is in place, said Nate Herring, a spokesperson for the Secret Service. He declined to provide specifics, citing operational security reasons. Guard members have historically provided support for presidential inaugurations, going back to the one for President George Washington. But the last transition of presidential power in 2021 departed from U.S. tradition and was marred with conflict. In November, Guard officials said more than two dozen states had indicated they would be willing to send National Guard troops to Washington if requested in the weeks following the presidential election and in the run-up to the inauguration, The Associated Press reported. In the days following the Jan. 6, 2021, riot, more than 25,000 National Guard troops were on the ground in Washington, hailing from all 50 states and three territories. The troops, along with local and federal law enforcement, locked down the city for the inauguration, securing the Capitol, monuments, Metro entrances and the perimeter of the central part of the city. Outside D.C., 6,565 members of the National Guard protected state capitals throughout the country, the Guard said. There were no protests or violence during the 2021 inauguration. In an opinion piece published Sunday in The Washington Post, President Joe Biden decried the 2021 attempt to overrun the Capitol to block certification of the 2020 election seeking to contrast that days chaos with what Biden promises will be an orderly transition returning Trump to power for a second term. We should be proud that our democracy withstood this assault, Biden wrote. And we should be glad we will not see such a shameful attack again this year. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Troops in an undated photo enter a chamber where they were exposed to chemical agents as part of military experiments at Edgewood Arsenal in Maryland. (U.S. Army photo) WASHINGTON Veterans who signed secrecy oaths that kept them from disclosing to doctors or anyone else the nature of injuries connected to covert operations could seek benefits retroactive to their discharge date under a bill before Congress. The Obligations to Aberdeens Trusted Heroes Act, or OATH Act, would lift a mandate that requires veterans to apply for benefits within one year of leaving military service to receive compensation dating back to their discharge. The restriction would be waived for former service members who participated in secrecy oath programs that prevented them from disclosing a mission or seeking benefits for service-connected illnesses or injuries. Sponsored by Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., the legislation specifically identifies Vietnam-era service members who were human test subjects from the mid-1950s to the early 1970s in Army experiments using chemical warfare agents and hallucinogenic drugs. Government-employed scientists including former Nazi Germany scientists, tested mustard agents, psychedelics, nerve agents and other dangerous chemicals, according to the legislation. Service members in experiments at the former Edgewood Arsenal Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland were sworn to secrecy and threatened with court-martial or criminal charges if they violated it. Upon leaving service in the Army, veterans of the program could not seek benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs for disabilities relating to the program without violating their secrecy oaths, according to the legislation. By secrecy oath, the military was referring to any non-disclosure agreement that prevented service members from disclosing or discussing covert missions. After leaving the military, the veterans could not seek compensation for injuries connected to the experiments until the secrecy oath was lifted in 2006, according to the legislation. The bill was introduced in November and referred to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee. Blumenthal is a committee member. As the incoming top Democrat of the committee, Blumenthal plans to reintroduce the legislation in the new Congress and will continue fighting to ensure Edgewood veterans receive full benefits, his office said. I was experiencing health problems before the oath was lifted but was not able to file a claim for compensation, said Army veteran Frank Rochelle, 71, of North Carolina. Compensation should not be timed to when the secrecy oath ended because injuries were incurred prior to that, said Rochelle, a former corporal whose service from 1968-1970 included a tour in Vietnam. Vietnam-era service members were considered volunteers in the classified studies by the U.S. Army Chemical Corps. They signed consent agreements prior to participating. But veterans later said they were not fully informed about the nature of the tests or the risks to their health. We have boxes and boxes of papers weve collected over the years about the testing, but we got nothing when we filed claims for compensation, said Michelle Josephs, wife and full-time caretaker of 76-year-old Army veteran Tim Josephs, another Edgewood participant. We were told it was informed consent. Tim and the others had volunteered. But these were a bunch of 18- and 19-year-old guys who had no idea the government would give them things harmful to them. We fought for years for benefits and then finally gave up, she said. Because the statute governing veterans benefits requires veterans to apply within one year of discharge to receive retroactive benefits, veterans of the program were only eligible for benefits beginning from the date of their disability application, according to the legislation. Rochelle took part in the military studies in 1968 at the former Edgewood Arsenal, where he received drugs orally and by injection. I never knew what they were giving me, he said. I pretty much lost consciousness after 10 minutes. I was delirious for about two days. All I remember is breathing in this one inhalation. The chronic medical problems that Rochelle developed after the experiments made him unemployable, according to VA records. Rochelle obtained his military medical records in 2001 and found he was administered a chemical known by the code name, CAR-302,668. The drug was described as a deliriant drug developed in the 1960s and tested at Edgewood. He also learned from medical records that he received a drug called EA-2233, a high-potency, synthetic form of THC, a psychoactive ingredient found in cannabis. Rochelle said he developed significant problems with his concentration and memory after receiving the drug. In my VA files, my medical problems are documented as due to the Edgewood experiments, said Rochelle, who is 100% disabled. He is now seeking disability compensation dating back to his discharge in 1970 and he continues to have respiratory problems that doctors determined were related to aerosol sprays that he and other service members inhaled through a mask. Rochelle also has a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder connected to his service at Edgewood. His case is on appeal before the U.S. Veterans Court of Appeals, which ordered retroactive compensation in 2024 in three other cases involving Edgewood veterans. By complying with their secrecy oaths, the veterans of the program lost the ability to receive the full veterans benefits they earned, the legislation said. The legislation would require no later than three months after a secrecy oath is lifted, the military must identify and notify the affected veterans about their ability to apply for full benefits retroactive to their date of discharge. Veterans of other secrecy oath programs may face the same hurdles to obtaining benefits. While some veterans of secrecy oath programs received limited relief in the courts, there is uncertainty about the scope of benefits available to those veterans, according to the legislation. A 2023 ruling in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington enabled service members who volunteered at Edgewood to obtain VA disability compensation retroactive to their date of discharge, potentially affecting 3,000 to 5,000 veterans believed to be alive. If signed into law, the OATH Act would codify this decision for Edgewood veterans allowing them to avoid litigation and inconsistent outcomes between cases and enable veterans who served in other secrecy oath programs to backdate their benefits, Blumenthals office said. Mark Jones, an attorney who represents several Edgewood veterans in cases seeking compensation, said the VA states publicly it has a process in place to handle claims for earlier effective dates. But the Edgewood veterans requests continue to be denied, he said. They are telling the veterans in decision letters that they do not have such a process in place, Jones said. I have the paperwork to support the fact that the VA is lying. Tim Josephs, a former Army sergeant, was given a cocktail of drugs that caused him to hallucinate and experience tremors when he served as a human test subject at Edgewood for three months in 1968. Neurological problems, including depression, nightmares, and extreme anxiety, persisted in the decades following military service, said Michelle Josephs, speaking for her husband, who was diagnosed with Parkinsons disease 20 years ago. The medical condition limits his ability to have conversations. Michelle Josephs said she did not learn about the experiments from her husband until the couple received a phone call several years after his discharge in 1969 from the military. The person identified himself as a federal government employee with questions about his participation in the studies, she said. We had just gotten married, and I was a nursing student. Someone from the government called. Tim did not ever call them back because he was so disgusted and didnt trust them. I said, What is this about? she recalled. Thats when he told me about the experiments. The couple later obtained his military health records that included information about participation in the Edgewood studies. Michelle Josephs said her husband was administered nerve agents and antidotes to them. Tim Josephs pursued disability claims with the VA but was denied. Weve had a lot of expenses over the years. At one point his medications were $3,000 a month, she said. He gets so worked up over this, and then nothing happens. Were demoralized. CANBERRA, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Record-breaking temperatures in 2024 drove extremes in the global water cycle, contributing to major flooding and droughts, Australian-led international research has found. The 2024 Global Water Monitor Report, which was published on Monday by a team of international researchers led by Albert van Dijk from Australian National University (ANU), found that rising temperatures as a result of climate change are changing how water moves around the planet. According to the report, 111 countries accounting for approximately half the world's population experienced their warmest year on record in 2024. Van Dijk said that air temperatures over land in 2024 were 1.2 degrees Celsius (C) higher than at the start of the 21st century and 2.2C higher than at the start of the Industrial Revolution. "In 2024, Earth experienced its hottest year on record, for the fourth year in a row. Water systems across the globe bore the brunt," he said in a media release. He said that global weather extremes in 2024 were part of a worsening trend of more intense floods and droughts. The report found that rising sea surface temperatures have intensified droughts and tropical cyclones in the Amazon Basin and southern Africa and that global warming has also contributed to heavier downpours and slower-moving storms. Water-related disasters killed more than 8,700 people globally in 2024, displaced 40 million and caused economic losses exceeding 550 billion U.S. dollars, the report said. It found that record-high monthly rainfall totals were recorded 27 percent more frequently in 2024 than at the start of the century. At the same time, record-lows were 38 percent more frequent. The research team said the data shows more preparation is needed for extremes on both sides of the global water cycle, including stronger flood defenses and more drought-resilient food production and water supplies. "Water is our most critical resource, and its extremes -- both floods and droughts -- are among the greatest threats we face," van Dijk said. The annual report is based on observations from thousands of ground stations and satellites that deliver near real-time data on rainfall, soil moisture, river flows and flooding. Wayne Roche, was due to appear before Judge John Cheatle at the court in Wexford today The man charged in relation to the death of John (King) OConnor in Wexford has been further remanded in custody at Wexford District Court. Mr Wayne Roche, was due to appear before Judge John Cheatle at the court in Wexford on Monday, January 6, via video link from Cloverhill Prison. However, his case was discussed in his absence as the seat at Cloverhill prison remained empty throughout the call. Wayne Roche (34), with a previous address of Dominicks Place, Waterford, and most recently of no fixed abode, was charged with the murder of John (King) OConnor (58) in his home at Cluain Fada, New Ross, on Tuesday, December 31. The late John (King) O'Connor A special sitting of Wexford District Court last week heard the accuseds response to the murder charge was: I didnt murder anyone. Mr OConnor was found unresponsive at approximately 11 a.m. by emergency services and was pronounced dead a short time later in his home. Defence barrister Ms Donna Kelly said she was instructed by Mr Roches solicitor, Lana ODoherty, as the court was sitting that Mr Roche was sick noted for today. Wayne Roche Ms Kelly said: I would like to reiterate my comments from last week and ask that Mr Roche receives all necessary medical attention. She added it was likely already the case, given that Mr Roche was sick noted. Judge Cheatle said there was a recommendation as such already in place from the previous sitting by Judge OLeary. Mr Roches defence said last week that his mental health was at high risk. It was agreed by the court on Monday, January 6, that Mr Roche will be further remanded in custody and will appear via video link again before Wexford District Court on Monday, January 20. Leading detective warns against allowing accounts to be used by scammers: You will be caught In May 2020, detectives armed with a warrant arrived at an apartment in north Dublin in search of a mobile phone. A company in Rotterdam had been swindled out of 1.1m by a forged email sent from the device. Gardai called in by Europol tracked the phone to the comfortable, but unflashy, home of the suspected conman. He was a third-level student of Nigerian heritage with a degree in computer science and drove a 16,000 car. He had no previous convictions, gardai had never heard of him, and he was unfailingly polite when they called to his door. All outward appearances suggested he was a well-educated, middle-class man in his mid-20s, climbing the ladder of success. His mobile phone told another story. It uncovered a vast network of money launderers and international scams not just the invoice redirect fraud that conned a Dutch business out of 1.1m and confirmed for the first time the presence of the Nigerian-based international organised crime network, the Black Axe, in Ireland. According to Detective Superintendent Michael Cryan of the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB), the seized phone showed Ireland was not just another stop on the gangs international money-laundering map as it shifted stolen funds around the world. This was the first time we had any indication that the suspects who commit these crimes were actually in Ireland, he said. The phone was a treasure trove of intelligence: not just about the Rotterdam fraud, but other similar crimes and led to the identification of hundreds of suspects worldwide. It also helped to join the dots with investigations we were working on in Ireland. For months the GNECB had been investigating a group of 12 Italians who each flew to Dublin over a period of weeks, and each opened multiple bank accounts. The Italian men and women, all of whom were from Trieste, used their own passports to open the accounts but presented the same fake utility bills as proof of residence. Garda Detective Superintendent Michael Cryan at the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau. Photo: Steve Humphreys Red flags were raised when large money transfers from overseas began washing through the accounts. Gardai suspected an organised money-laundering plot, with an Irish-based handler who took control of the bank accounts once the Italians had departed. But who was the handler and what organised crime group was he or she affiliated to? The answer was in the seized phone. Giuseppe Divicarro was a quiet-living occasional fashion photographer in his 40s who lived in Glasnevin, north Dublin. He had never come to garda attention until detectives tracked him down from information on the suspects mobile phone. Giuseppe Diviccaro In another twist, the suspects phone also contained links to bank accounts opened by some of the 12 Italian nationals. The common link between all of them was a fake Electric Ireland bill with a bogus address on the South Circular Road. The Italians had used it to open bank accounts in Dublin. Divicarro had used the same fake bill to open multiple bank accounts in his own name for money laundering. The suspect whose phone had unlocked this crucial information was also connected to that same South Circular Road address used on the fake Electric Ireland bill. Divicarro pleaded guilty in 2021 to gangland and money-laundering offences and received a three-and-a-half-year sentence. He claimed he was a gambling addict and allowed more than 200,000 to wash through his bank accounts to pay off his debts. The investigation sparked by that call from Europol in 2020 has evolved into a labyrinthine investigation into the Irish activities of one of the worlds biggest crime gangs. The Black Axe evolved from a student fraternity in Benin in the 1970s to a global crime syndicate specialising in fraud but expanding into human trafficking, prostitution and drugs. It has been described as a franchise, a cult and a Mafia-style organisation, dependent on a network of bit players in every jurisdiction they operate in. Operation Skein has established that 90m has been laundered through Irish bank accounts for the Black Axe gang in eight years According to Interpol, cyber-crime is its biggest source of revenue and it launders stolen funds through its vast international network of facilitators and money mules. In Ireland, the Nigerian-based international criminal organisation is now responsible for most, if not all, of the online scams and cyber frauds detected here, Mr Cryan said. Since its launch in 2020, Operation Skein set up to target the criminal organisation, has established that at a conservative estimate, 90m has been laundered through Irish bank accounts for the Black Axe gang in eight years. It has identified 1,400 people who have connections to the wider criminal organisation in a variety of roles. These include at least 86 mid- to top-tier targets in Ireland, according to Mr Cryan. Hundreds more are involved as facilitators managing the bank accounts used for money laundering, and herders who recruit and manage mules. At least 1,000 have been identified as money mules typically students recruited on forums such as Snapchat on the promise of a few hundred euro, or those with unblemished records but compromised such as by drug or gambling debts. The Black Axe mob is targeting young people to use their accounts for money laundering. Photo: Getty. At least 100 people have been arrested under anti-gangland legislation, and at least 50 have been charged. Dozens more have been investigated for money laundering, many of them students in their teens and 20s. To date, 40 young people have received juvenile cautions for money-laundering offences. The more arrests that are made, the more phones and devices seized, the more new connections emerge, as well as some concerning patterns. According to Mr Cryan, 10 professionals in high-end jobs with financial institutions and corporations were found to have links to Irish-based members of the crime network. Mr Cryan said gardai simply dont know whether these insider threats are deliberate plants or targeted by Black Axe because of the jobs they hold. We dont know, but we see a lot of these insider threats and not just in banks, he said. The concern is not just about the potential access to bank accounts that gangs are after. It is also access to the tradecraft, how the banks and businesses operate, and having that insider knowledge. In one case, a woman who worked for a utilities company is suspected of passing a customer database to a man who was subsequently arrested for sending fake text messages to trick people into transferring money from their accounts. Funmi Abimbola (26) A healthcare worker is suspected of stealing an employee database from a Dublin nursing home, then passing the information to a member of the Black Axe gang, who then used it to apply for Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP). The massive data theft came to light when staff were contacted by Revenue Commissioners about PUP payments they never received. In another case, the girlfriend of a suspected Black Axe facilitator worked for a call centre for a financial institution. The log-in details for the banking system and other access information were printed out and stuck up on the wall of her bedroom. Her boyfriend, a student who owned a property refurbishment business in his native Nigeria, shared the apartment with her and, gardai suspect, had free access to the banks log-in details. There is a pattern, in that a lot of our suspects have third-level qualifications Then there is Funmi Abimbola (26), one of the higher-ranking Black Axe figures to be jailed in Ireland. He was working in human resources at Bank of Ireland when he helped to launder hundreds of thousands of euro through Irish accounts. At his sentencing hearing in October, Abimbola, from Lucan, was described as academically gifted, with two degrees including a masters, and no prior convictions. Yet he was deeply involved and pleaded guilty to working with one of the worlds most notorious crime networks. He fled to the UK and had to be extradited back to Ireland to stand trial. We did not find evidence that he was using his role in the bank to further the gang. The fact that he was working in the bank in the first place is a cause for concern, said Mr Cryan. Abimbole did not divulge to gardai how or why he got involved with the Black Axe crime organisation. Gardai are keen to know. What is strange here is that young Irish people with third-level educations and career prospects dont generally get involved with international organised crime gangs, Mr Cryan said. There is a pattern, in that a lot of our suspects have third-level qualifications. Its important to find out how gangs are able to persuade young professionals to get involved, so that we can stop that from happening. Experts predict an explosion in cyber-crime, with evidence that criminals are already deploying artificial intelligence (AI) in a wide variety of scams. Phone and text scams alone have cost individuals and businesses in Ireland a conservative 300m, according to the telecoms regulator, ComReg. The bulk of the stolen funds are never recovered, according to Mr Cryan, transferred or traded out of the country and into the pockets of the criminals at the top of a deadly criminal organisation. There are mere degrees of separation between those at the top of this global crime gang and the young Irish students who sell the use of their bank accounts to strangers on social media. It would not be wrong to say that every young person that you see before the courts who laundered money from an online scam was recruited by this organisation, Mr Cryan said. The message we want to get out to young people is that if you act as a money mule, you will be caught. You will end up before the courts, and the ramifications are huge. Every money mule enhances the criminal organisation and is vital to its success, he said. And to the public, the message is to always be alert, to protect your data. Always have it in the back of your heads: Could this be a scam? Picture exclusive: Inside the apartment complex in Spain where missing Belfast man was last seen alive These are exclusive pictures inside the apartment compound in Spain where Belfast man John George was last seen alive. The swimming pool and jet ski sat unused yesterday days after Spanish police swept the duplex property for clues after Mr George was reported missing. Relatives of Mr George have pasted missing posters on to the walls of the apartment complex on Calle Lago de Sanabria in the exclusive Orihuela district of Torrevieja. And yesterday the George family say theyve been led on a wild goose chase in the desperate search for his remains. The family have scoured locations based on information from a relative of the man they believe killed John. Up to 50 volunteers and a search team have been scouring locations around Alicante but Johns brother Darren says the information theyve received has led nowhere. The apartment complex where the Belfast man was last seen alive The apartment complex where the Belfast man was last seen alive The apartment complex where the Belfast man was last seen alive The apartment complex where the Belfast man was last seen alive The last contact they had with John was on December 14, ten days after hed arrived in Spain, when he made a phone call to his dad in which he sounded distressed. His family launched an appeal for information when the 37-year-old missed a flight home from Alicante to Belfast on December 18. They later received information that an associate of Johns, a Northern Ireland drug dealer with links to the South East Antrim UDA, had shot dead the father of two on December 15. Darren George believes John was lured to Spain to be killed. The family parents Billy and Sharon, and Johns siblings Darren, Courtney and Catilin have been in southern Spain since before Christmas searching for Johns remains, based on information sent to them by a relative of the man they believe killed him. They have scoured waste ground near the apartment where John was staying. A team of seven volunteers and sniffer dogs from K9 Search and Rescue NI, which arrived on New Years Day, have used drones to search in the reservoir near the duplex apartment as well as large areas of the surrounding countryside. K9 Search and Rescue NI in Spain K9 Search and Rescue NI in Spain The family searched on the beach in Cabo Roig, desperately hoping to locate Johns remains. They have also been given information from a woman that John was buried in lemon fields in the huge area from Benidorm to Torrevieja. We are getting the same false information and tips that John has been buried around lemon fields, says Darren. They are sending us on a wild goose chase. Theyre sending us locations and when we get there hes not there. Now that we have the search dogs over I think theyre starting to panic. If your relative was innocent why would she be sending us locations and saying his body is here? Cabo Roig yesterday Their hopes were raised when the relative said theyd send a map of the location of the body. She has sent me a map of an area which would be from Twinbrook to Dublin. I texted her back and said that does not help me at all, he says. The family have also been given information about cars which may have been used in Johns killing. She sent me a message saying You need to check the cameras. She is telling us what type of cars they were driving. We know there was a car put back in Alicante airport as a rental, says Darren. She is trying to say that another fella killed John. Forensics officers carried out an examination of the apartment where John was staying but Spanish police said on Friday theyre treating Johns disappearance as a missing persons case, despite the familys pleas to open a murder investigation. John Georges family in Spain John with his family Police are looking at two suspects in connection with Johns disappearance: a Czech national and the Northern Ireland man. Darren believes the family are also being deliberately given false information about the location of Johns former associate. Three men have been questioned by Spanish police about Johns disappearance, one of whom returned to Belfast this week on the same flight as the dead mans partner. The lurid internet interest in Johns disappearance has piled pressure on the already distressed family, with online sleuths directing cruel comments at them. Darren says theyve also been taunted in a social media post by the man they believe killed John. He put a picture up on Instagram and it says, Dad I miss you, with a heart, and underneath it says not delivered. To me he put that up after John was murdered and I think that was to mock Johns two kids, he says. In another development this week, a woman who had been in Johns company before he vanished posted a TikTok video from Spain saying she is now under threat in Northern Ireland. Madison Allen says shes had up to 30 threats but didnt specify where they had come from. In the three-minute video she insists she had no involvement in the case and has passed any information she has to the George family. Im just coming on to clear up some rumours that Im sick of hearing. Im not running, Im not fleeing. The police back home have advised me to stay here until it is safe. I cant go back to Northern Ireland because my whole family is in danger, and even more so me. Ive 30 death threats back home and Im getting threatened over here too, she says. The apartment complex where the Belfast man was last seen alive Darren George says the family will stay in Spain until they find Johns body. He says they knew that something was wrong when John didnt contact them, as he usually rang every day. I knew, I just knew he was here and that something was wrong. We will be here until we find John. On Friday the PSNI, which is liaising with the George family, issued a fresh appeal for information. It has opened a major incident public portal where people can upload photographs, footage or social media videos to be forwarded to Spanish police. A PSNI spokesperson said: While the investigation must be progressed by Spanish police, the Police Service of Northern Ireland have made an offer of assistance to police in Spain and will assist with any local inquiries as requested by them. Gangster trying to raise bail money after hes busted by police in Alicante Veteran criminal John Gilligan is back behind bars in Spain after an investigation linked him to a large quantity of pink cocaine, the same drug that killed tragic One Direction star Liam Payne. Gilligan (72) has been holed up at the high-security Fortcalent Prison since before Christmas, as he continues his attempt to raise the necessary funds for bail while the investigation proceeds. According to sources, the pint-sized thug was nabbed by cops around the Torrevieja area at the same time that concerns were being raised for missing Belfast man John George. Associates of Gilligan, including Fat Tony Armstrong, have been seen in the company of members of the George family on the Costa Blanca as they continue their public campaign for answers to his mysterious disappearance. Gilligan being held by Spanish police Armstrong, who is a long-term resident of Alicante, is understood to have volunteered to help in the search for John George, who is suspected of being shot dead in a row between a group of chaotic drug dealers living in the area after he travelled there for a pre-Christmas holiday. George was last seen at a property in the same neighbourhood where Gilligan lives and where the veteran mobster was last arrested while running a postal drugs service. Gilligan is not suspected of having anything to do with the disappearance of John George; his arrest is coincidental and followed a raid on a property where a large amount of synthetic cocaine was discovered. Sources say that Gilligan is suspected of street dealing heroin, cocaine and pills and has been offering a delivery service to buyers who place an order with him. Gilligan has fallen on hard times in the past few years and recently had moved into a two-bed flat without a pool. He was handed a 22-month suspended prison sentence by a Spanish Court after admitting using a courier service to smuggle cannabis and prescription-only drugs without licence to Ireland. John George was living in the same locality where Gilligan lives in Alicante He had also pleaded guilty to illegally possessing a firearm as part of a plea bargain deal ahead of his latest trial. His son, Darren, was also caught up in that plot but it is understood he is no longer living in Spain. Any offence, particularly a drug offence, should activate that sentence, although it is understood that Gilligan is attempting to raise bail money so that he can buy his freedom once again. John George was reported missing on December 18 after he failed to board his flight home from Spain. He had travelled to Spain three weeks earlier to visit friends based in Alicante. Police look for clues to Georges disappearance Last night, Johns family say theyve been led on a wild goose chase in Spain in the desperate search for his remains. The George family has scoured locations based on information from a relative of the man they believe killed John. Up to 50 volunteers and a search team have been scouring locations around Alicante, but Johns brother Darren says the information theyve received has led nowhere. The last contact they had with John, also known as John Hardy, was on December 14, just 10 days after hed arrived in Spain, when he made a phone call to his dad in which he sounded distressed. They later received information from an associate of Johns that hed been shot dead on December 15. Friends and family are searching for George Darren George believes John was lured to Spain to be killed. The family, parents Billy and Sharon, and Johns siblings, Darren, Courtney and Catilin, have been in southern Spain since before Christmas searching for Johns remains, based on information sent to them by a relative of the man they believe killed him. They have scoured waste ground near the apartment on Calle Lago de Sanabria in the exclusive Orihuela district of Torrevieja in the Alicante region where John was staying. A team of seven volunteers and sniffer dogs from K9 Search and Rescue NI, which arrived on New Years Day, has used drones to search in the reservoir near the duplex apartment as well as large areas of the surrounding countryside. The family searched on the beach in Cabo Roig, desperately hoping to locate Johns remains. They have also been given information that John was buried in lemon fields in the huge area from Benidorm to Torrevieja. We are getting the same false information and tips that John has been buried around lemon fields, says Darren. The apartment where John George was last seen They are sending us on a wild goose chase. Theyre sending us to locations and when we get there hes not there. Now that we have the search dogs over I think theyre starting to panic. If your relative was innocent why would she be sending us locations and saying his body is here. Forensics officers carried out an examination of the apartment where John was staying but Spanish police said in a statement on Friday theyre treating his disappearance as a missing persons case, despite family pleas to open a murder investigation. Police are looking at two suspects in connection with Johns disappearance, a Czech national and a Northern Ireland man. Three men have been questioned by Spanish police about Johns disappearance, one of whom returned to Belfast this week on the same flight as the dead mans partner. The lurid internet interest in Johns disappearance has piled pressure on the already distressed family with online sleuths directing cruel comments at them. Darren says that theyve also been taunted by the man they believe killed John, in a social media post. John Gilligan is trying to raise the money to post bail He put a picture up on Instagram and it says, Dad I miss you, with a heart, and underneath it says not delivered. To me he put that up after John was murdered and I think that was to mock Johns two kids, he says. On Friday, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), which is liaising with the George family, issued a fresh appeal for information. It has opened a major incident public portal where people can upload photographs, footage or social media videos to be forwarded to Spanish police. While the investigation must be progressed by Spanish police, the Police Service of Northern Ireland have made an offer of assistance to police in Spain and will assist with any local enquiries as requested by them, a PSNI spokesperson said. James Jimmy Dollars Meehan enjoyed special treatment as a snitch in prison A killer who went AWOL from jail just months after being extradited for a similar offence keeps being let out because hes a prison wardens pet, its been claimed. James Meehan went AWOL three weeks ago just months after he was extradited from the Republic and sentenced to another ten months behind bars. We revealed at the time, just as we did two years ago when he went missing the first time, how Meehan had gone on the run to Kells, Co Meath, where he has personal connections. This week he was spotted in Kells driving around in a black Seat and helping another person carry some shopping into their house. The last time it took 17 months and a lengthy, and extremely costly, legal battle to have him brought back to Northern Ireland after Meehan fought the extradition order. Now jailhouse sources have told the Sunday World Meehan, who murdered Jim McFadden in Derry in 2007, has been getting special treatment because he was a well-known snitch. James McFadden Sources also revealed Meehan is a handy tradesman and saved the Prison Service thousands by building them a new unit. Thats the prison service for you mate, they always look after their jailhouse touts no matter what they get up to, said a former lag who served with Meehan. Thats why so many of all the same faces get chance after chance after chance its reward for years of passing on information to prison security and governors. Burren staff and the governor are always overruled by higher management when it comes to these individuals, unfortunately. Burren staff dont get a look-in but all the flak falls on them when things go wrong with those types of prisoners who constantly get returned to Burren only to f**k up again. Its madness because when they raise concerns theyre told we make the decisions, you just do what your here to do and thats rehabilitate prisoners, and they do, to be fair. You get the odd balloon screw who causes problems but the majority of screws in Burren actually try to help get deserving prisoners their life licence and release. Its so easy to notice now when you see the same faces going up and down from Maghaberry to Burren failing drug tests and up to all sorts of sh*t that somethings rotten in Denmark. Burren staff have told me themselves they raise reservations and concerns about these people on a regular basis and they get overruled, only for the sh*t to hit the fan and the flak falls on them. Its a joke. Meehan was a prison service pet in Maghaberry and Magilligan because he was really good and building stuff, he was really handy. He was making and building things for them which saved them loads of money as they didnt have to pay him. He practically built an entire new living accommodation in Foyleview for prisoners getting home leave, saving the prison service thousands. He built everything sheds, living spaces and was flat-out working for the prison. He was basically an off-the-books prison tradesman who saved the Prison Service literally tens of thousands and Im not joking you. So of course they were always going to look after him. And a source says Meehan had a nickname. They said: He was known as Jimmy Dollars by other cons who liked to make fun of him because he looked like one of those old gangsters from those old American gangster films where all the bad guys have twisted, ugly messed-up faces. An international police hunt is currently under way for 55-year-old Meehan who failed to return to Magilligan prison three weeks ago to complete his life sentence for the murder of Jim McFadden in Derry in 2007. Jim McFaddens family Mr McFaddens daughters Danielle Bradley and Ashling Graham have said they believe the decision to grant him temporary release again had allowed him to abscond for a third time. The family said they had objected to him getting day release before and this time, given that he had gone on the run before. This paper revealed in October 2022 how Meehan had gone on the run to Kells, where he has family. When he absconded two years ago Meehan had been part of a pre-release scheme and had been staying in Burren House prison wing in Belfast but had been allowed to go to an address in Limavady at the weekend. However, on October 9, 2022, after his curfew was activated, the Limavady address was visited by authorities and Meehan was not there. He was returned to Magilligan Prison last February. Meehan was sentenced to life imprisonment for the brutal murder of popular Gentle Jim McFadden in May 2007. Cathal Canavan (24) had been jumping from a cliff into an ocean pool when he slipped An Irishman is in intensive care in Australia falling from a cliff at a popular Sydney beach on Christmas Day. Cathal Canavan (24), from Claremorris in Co Mayo, was visiting Bronte Beach with other expats and backpackers on December 25 when the incident unfolded. The plumber had been jumping from a cliff into an ocean pool when he slipped and fell 20ft onto concrete. Police and emergency services rushed to the scene, including a specialist medical team which arrived via helicopter at nearby Calga Reserve to treat Mr Canavan. He was then airlifted to St Vincents Hospital where he received an operation to treat his serious head injury and remains in an induced coma, The Irish Mirror reports. Mr Canavans family and friends have set up a fundraiser to support his parents, Shane and Josie, and brother Kieran to ensure they can stay close by his side in Sydney. The iDonate page, which has amassed almost 85,000 in donations, will also help cover the costs of the 24-year-old's medical care and rehabilitation. Cathal Canavan Although a challenging and long road lies ahead, we are hopeful for his full recovery, his loved ones wrote on the crowdfunding page. As those who know him well would tell you, Cathal is an extremely kind-hearted individual. Fiercely loyal, he protects those close to him, and you know that he is always in your corner whenever you need. He is hardworking in his trade as a plumber and his mischievous laugh and smile are infectious. Every donation, no matter how small, is extremely appreciated. We understand that not everyone is in the position to donate so even by sharing this with others to help spread the word would mean a lot. We are extremely grateful for your kindness during this difficult time. In an update on Sunday, Mr Canavans friends and family thanked donors for their overwhelming support as the fundraiser approached the 80,000 mark. Sharing their gratitude, they wrote: It is the first weekend after the most expensive time of year for most people but the generosity and support you have shown over the last 48 hours has been overwhelming. To everyone who has donated, shared the message and has kept Cathal and the Canavans in your thoughts and prayers - thank you so much. Cathal Canavan Addressing Mr Canavan and his immediate family directly, they added: We hope this fund gives you one less thing to worry about so that you can focus all your energy on being with Cathal and supporting his full recovery. To make a donation or to find out more, visit the Cathal Canavan's Recovery Fund fundraising page here. Hopes high that IRA ex-monks remains were hidden in burial plot of leading clerics family The Comiskey family plot in Monaghan this week after the parents and brothers of former Bishop Brendan Comiskey (right) were returned after a search for the body of disappeared Joe Lynskey (left) The remains of five members of former Bishop Brendan Comiskeys family have been returned to their final resting place, the Sunday Word can reveal. It is part of a dedicated response to a series of events aimed at recovering the body of missing IRA man Joe Lynskey, who disappeared from his west Belfast home more than 50 years ago. Six weeks ago, experts acting on behalf of the Independent Commission for the Location of Victims Remains (ICLVR) oversaw the multiple exhumation of remains from a family grave in a remote churchyard near Clontibret, Co. Monaghan. Five of the six deceased were later revealed to be close relatives of the former Bishop of Ferns, Brendan Comiskey. The removed remains included those of his parents Clare and Patrick and his brothers Sean, Edmund and Maurice. And the Sunday World later revealed that 75-year-old Clare Comiskey had died on November 9, 1972 as a result of a tragic early morning fire at her farmhouse home at Tasson, outside Clontibret. When her elderly husband Patrick left to get help from neighbours, Mrs Comiskey re-entered the burning property in an effort to retrieve valuables. But she was overcome by smoke and her charred remains were recovered by firefighters the following day. How the tragic death of Clare Comiskey was reported in a local newspaper in 1972 From a family of 10, Bishop Comiskey who was a priest at the time of the tragic death of his mother is the only member of his immediate family still alive. News of the multiple-body removal at Annyalla Cemetery six weeks ago stunned the local Catholic community. But it later emerged that permission had personally been granted by the long-retired Bishop Comiskey. The one-time senior clergyman who will be 90 on his next birthday is known to be gravely ill. And he was known to be keen to see the unidentified body mystery being resolved as soon as possible. However, the remains of a sixth person, suspected of being those of Joe Lynksey, which were also reportedly removed from the Comiskey family plot, have yet to be formally identified. But the Sunday World has learned that a few days ago that the remains of all of the Comiskey family removed from the grave in St Michaels churchyard were formally identified and re-interred. Yesterday, a Sunday World source known to be extremely close to the Comiskey family said everyone connected to the family was delighted at the way the delicate situation was handled by the ICLVR. He said: We are delighted things are going according to plan. The new year has brought us a new start and our family grave is once more intact. Former Bishop Brendan Comiskey Our only hope now is for the Lynskey family to find the same peace we are enjoying today. It is only right that a family has a place to remember their loved one. He added: We are all praying this can happen in the near future. And as our exclusive pictures show, heavy metal gates protecting the integrity of the grave have now been removed. The grave has a fresh covering of topsoil and five floral arrangements each representing a Comiskey family member have been placed on top. A veteran republican source based in Monaghan town told the Sunday World that the sixth and as yet unidentified remains are that of Lynskey. A former Cistercian monk from Harrowgate Street off the Falls Road, Lynskey was a well known and popular person in that part of Catholic west Belfast. As a young man he had joined the IRA and had been involved in its so-called Border Campaign from 1956-62. And shortly after the outbreak of the Troubles in August 1969, he joined the newly formed Provisional IRA. As a result of his previous paramilitary experience, Lynskey was appointed Intelligence Officer and he was responsible for vetting new recruits. Joe Lynskey But it is understood that he very soon became infatuated with the wife of one of his IRA subordinates after the pair began an affair. And in an attempt at getting rid of the womans husband, Lynskey ordered an IRA volunteer to shoot him dead on his own doorstep. But the murder bid was botched when the victim was only slightly wounded. He managed to make his way to the home of a senior IRA man, telling him Lynskey had ordered his shooting. When asked for an explanation, Lynskey claimed the man had been shot by the rival Official IRA. And within minutes, the Provos ordered an armed unit to wreak immediate and revenge. The hit team burst into a drinking shebeen and shot a senior Official IRA member dead. The incident nearly sparked a republican feud and when the full truth emerged, the IRA ordered Lynskey to face a court martial. In early 1972, an IRA kangaroo court sentenced Lynskey to death. And Provo bomber Delours Price a member of a secret IRA unit known as The Unknowns was ordered to drive him across the border and into the hands of an IRA unit from Monaghan. The incident was reproduced recently in the Disney+ TV series Say Nothing. Joe Lynskey with the Price sisters in Say Nothing For months, Lynskey lived in the home of the relatives of IRA legend Fergal OHanlon, who was shot dead in an attack on Brookborough RUC Barracks in Fermanagh on New Years Day 1957. Lynskey spent his evenings eating home-made bread and drinking tea while the IRA decided the best way to carry out his death sentence. The opportunity to disappear Lynskeys body presented itself on November 6, 1972, with Mrs Comiskeys tragic death. As the community prepared itself for the elderly womans funeral, the IRA brought Lynskey to the open grave that had been prepared for Mrs Comiskey. The Comiskey family plot in Monaghan this week after the parents and brothers of former Bishop Brendan Comiskey were returned after a search for the body of disappeared Joe Lynskey Republican sources told us devout Lynskey did a deal with his captors that his body would be buried in concentrated ground. He was ordered to kneel on the ground. As he said the Rosary, an IRA man who had come all the way from Belfast stepped forward and shot him dead. Lynskeys lifeless body was placed into the grave and covered with soil. It remained there for over 50 years until late last year, when the ICLVR requested Bishop Brendan Comiskeys permission to reopen the family grave. Joe Lynskey was the first of 16 individuals disappeared by the IRA, as well as one by the INLA. It is expected the ICLVC could release a statement on the Joe Lynskey investigation within a matter of days. He arrived, driven by another man, at 9.15am Schoolteacher Enoch Burke has once again turned up to the Co Westmeath school he was sacked from. He arrived, driven by another man, at 9.15am as the temperatures hovered around zero degrees and a frost lay on the ground. He then took up his usual position outside the school, which opened today on the first day of term after the Christmas holidays. Now owing the State 193,000 in unpaid fines for breaching court orders, the controversial schoolteacher was released from jail by the High Court on December 20 last. He had been suspended and later dismissed by the board of management at the Wilsons Hospital school in Multyfarnham after publicly clashing with its then principal over a request that teachers address a transgender child by a new name and they/them pronouns. Mr Burke, who is from a family of well-known evangelical Christians, refused to do so on religious grounds. The judge who released him last month despite the teacher not purging his contempt, said it was his opinion that Mr Burke was exploiting his imprisonment for his own ends. Mr Burke has now served three terms of imprisonment for contempt of court for his repeated refusal to comply with various court orders to keep away from the secondary school where he taught German and History. During these three terms since August 2022, he has spent a total of 512 days in prison. But each time he has been released, he returns to the school at the earliest opportunity. Each day he protests at the school he makes a two-hour 150km journey from the Burke family home in Castlebar, Co Mayo, usually driven by a relative. Enoch Burke outside Wilson's Hospital School in Co Westmeath. Photo: Gerry Mooney. Mostly he has been driven by his father Sean (60), but he remains in prison having been given a two-month sentence on December 17 last for assaulting a garda in a courtroom in 2023 during a hearing in the case of Enoch. At the end of each school day, he then makes the return journey to the West. Despite being suspended and later sacked, he continued to show up at the school each day for work, even after the board secured a temporary injunction restraining him from doing so. The High Court then granted a permanent injunction in May last year. But Mr Burke was warned by Mr Justice David Nolan when being released last month that he would be fined 1,400-a-day, double the 700 fine previously imposed on him by another judge, if he chooses to continue breaching the court order and entering the grounds of Wilsons Hospital School when it reopened today. Mr Burke never paid the fines previously imposed on him and now owes 193,000. Lawyers for the school previously raised concerns that there was no mechanism to collect the fines from him. In his ruling last month, the judge directed that representatives of the Attorney General and the Department of Finance come before the court to advise on what mechanism is available to use Mr Burkes salary to pay the fines. The judge said Mr Burkes behaviour suggested he was acting under the influence of others who had persuaded him to be a martyr. Mr Justice Nolan said it was noteworthy that when he asked Mr Burke at a previous hearing if he was under the influence of someone else, before the teacher could reply his mother Martina jumped from behind the bench and accused the judge of being under the influence some other party. Giving reasons for his decision to release Mr Burke last month, Mr Justice Nolan said it was one of those very rare occasions where coercive imprisonment should stop, at least for the moment. The judge said he also had to consider the burden on the taxpayer, which he said was continuing to pay Mr Burkes salary while he appeals his dismissal, on top of the 84,000-a-year it was costing to keep him in jail. He urged Mr Burke to use the Christmas period to reflect on his fruitless campaign and said it was open to the school to again seek his attachment and committal if he continued to breach the order when the school reopened. He said Mr Burkes talents as a teacher were being entirely wasted and that he repeatedly came to court to make a misguided and at times ridiculous argument that the school and the court are trying to abolish religious liberties. While Mr Burke claims that he has been imprisoned for his religious views, several judges have rejected this, saying compliance with court orders did not require Mr Burke to abandon his beliefs. MANILA, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines and Japan have renewed their Bilateral Swap Arrangement (BSA) effective on Jan. 1, 2025, the Philippine central bank said Monday. The Bank of Japan, acting as an agent for the Minister of Finance of Japan, and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) signed the Fourth Amendment and Restatement Agreement of the Third BSA. The BSA is a two-way arrangement in which both authorities can swap their local currencies for the U.S. dollar. The arrangement also enables the Philippines to swap the Philippine peso against the Japanese yen. According to the BSP, the size of the BSA remains unchanged, that is, up to 12 billion dollars or its equivalent in Japanese yen for the Philippines, and 500 million dollars for Japan. The severe winter weather has led to the closure of schools Tens of thousands of homes and businesses in Ireland are without water and electricity amid a bitter cold snap across the whole island (Niall Carson/PA) Education Minister Norma Foley has told RTE's Morning Ireland that a "substantial" number of schools will remain closed in counties Carlow, Cork, Kerry, Kilkenny, Limerick and Tipperary but the majority across the country will open this morning. Ms Foley said schools will make "the right decision and the best decision" when it comes to reopening and some may decide to facilitate online classes should they remain closed throughout the coming week. She said she was conscious that some homes are without power or water, but some schools will run online classes "where it is feasible to do so". Tens of thousands of homes and businesses in Ireland are without water and electricity amid a bitter cold snap. The severe winter weather has led to the closure of schools and some public transport restrictions as well as the cancellation of several healthcare services. There are treacherous road conditions across the Republic of Ireland, with broad sections of the island experiencing below-zero temperatures. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content The Irish Electricity Supply Board (ESB) said 41,000 homes and businesses remained without power on Monday morning, and warned it may take days to restore supply to all customers. Irish water authority Uisce Eireann said a similar number of people were without access to water after heavy snow in the south-west region. It said it would be working with the ESB to prioritise the restoration of power at water treatment plants and pumping stations, in the hope that services could be restored by Monday lunchtime. However, both agencies said the snow and other treacherous road conditions are creating access difficulties for crews. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content The Health Service Executive has cancelled clinical and non-urgent outpatient appointments in the worst-affected areas, along with breast screening services in the south-west. The poor weather conditions also resulted in school closure announcements, particularly across Counties Carlow and Kilkenny as well as Limerick, Kerry, Tipperary and Cork. Meanwhile, Bus Eireann informed customers that a range of routes in the south of the country have been halted. While there had been some thawing of weekend snow on Monday morning, the bitterly cold conditions are expected to continue into the week with overnight temperatures dropping to minus 8C in parts of the south in the coming days. The cold arctic air is also predicted to bring further snow showers in some regions. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content National weather agency Met Eireann has issued a Status Yellow low temperature and ice warning for the entire country, predicting very cold nights with widespread frost and ice. Temperatures will struggle to get above freezing during the day, the forecaster said, meaning there will be travel disruption amid icy patches and other hazardous travelling conditions. The Yellow warning is in place until midday on Thursday but forecasters believe this may escalate to Orange level for some regions at points throughout the week. The UK Met Office, which issues warnings for Northern Ireland, said the region will see icy stretches developing during the early hours of Monday, bringing some disruption, especially to travel. A Yellow warning for ice across Northern Ireland was due to expire at 11am. Jonny Smyth (26) and Madison Allen (19) were among the last people to see John George alive when he went to visit them in Alicante last month. Interpol is now working with Spanish police to investigate the disappearance and suspected murder of Belfast man John George in Alicante last month. The PSNI has confirmed the involvement inclusion of the international law enforcement agency in correspondence with a solicitor acting for the family of the 37-year-old, who went missing in the Costa Blanca on December 14. It comes as one of the suspects linked to Mr George's disappearance made a phone call to the victims family, claiming the father-of-two had been shot and left somewhere between Torrevieja and Benidorm. The call alleged that a gun was used to kill Mr George and the weapon had been taken away by one of the suspects to clean it. Spanish authorities are currently investigating a number of suspects, all of whom were living in Spain at the time of Mr Georges disappearance, along with a man from the Czech Republic. However, the two main suspects are are refusing to reveal the location of Mr Georges body and are blaming each other for the suspected murder. In the call which was recorded and heard by the Belfast Telegraph, the suspect states: You dont understand how much I know this needs to come out. I said to (name redacted), When you left the house what direction did you drive? He said he drove towards Torrevieja and then up, but doesnt know the exact location. The person then claims that at 10pm on December 14, Mr George, who is referred to as Georgie in the recording, left their apartment uninjured with another man. They claim a few hours later the man arrived back at their property with a gun and confessed to shooting Mr George. When (name redacted) came to our house that night he said, Georgie didnt make it to Benidorm. We s*** ourselves. He was like, Ive just done that to Georgie. The George family, from Twinbrook in west Belfast, were last contacted by Mr George on December 14, at which time his father Billy told him to come home. However, Mr George did not board his flight back to Ireland on December 18. His relatives are currently in the Spanish city searching for his body, certain that John was murdered there in mid-December. They were recently warned their lives are in danger from the South East Antrim UDA, with Johns brother Darren saying theyre taking the threat seriously. We are under threat when we go home. We have already been told that, Darren said. We have been told that our lives are in danger when we get home. Thats coming from him and whatever gang he is involved in. The police are aware of that. We have a police liaison officer. With what has happened to John I would take any threat coming from them seriously. Im really concerned about it. Darren believes his brother was lured to Spain for a holiday before Christmas before he was murdered. Once John got here and knew he was in trouble he rang home and my dad told him to get on the next flight and get out and that was the last conversation we had with him. John was murdered on December 15. We were told before we came over that John was shot dead, by this man who is definitely connected to a group. He sent word back home that he had shot John and he was lying in a lemon field. The day he shot John was the 15th. Then people came out to clean up. It comes after it was revealed that a couple who claim theyve received 30 death threats over Mr Georges disappearance are adult content creators. Jonny Smyth (26) and Madison Allen (19) were among the last people to see John George alive when he went to visit them in Alicante last month. Ms Allen publicly denied any involvement in the disappearance of John George in a video posted on social media last week, with Mr Smyth previously telling the family he did not know his whereabouts. Jonny Smyth and Madison Allen Sunday Life revealed this week that the pair create explicit adult content on OnlyFans together, some of which was filmed in their Cabo Roig pad near Alicante. Ms Allen, from Newtownabbey in north Belfast, advertises the content on social media under the name Madi Alia Allen, posting dozens of sexual images and videos. She teases some of the content to her 1,600 followers on X, with her bio reading: Your new fav, hot 5ft brunette content creator, click to see all my spicy content. Subscribers can pay to access her OnlyFans page for 15 per month, where she posts uncensored content. Many of the adult clips feature her older boyfriend Mr Smyth, who was a close friend of John George, also known as John Hardy. She describes herself in her bio as: Your favourite little sweet sexy 19-year-old living in Spain. 5ft green eyed brunette what more could you ask for... subscribe to see the naughty side of me. B/G (boy/girl) and plenty more! Speaking in a TikTok video last week, Ms Allen said she was sick and tired of all the rumours about John Georges disappearance and said that she had nothing to hide. I have not been hiding or fleeing. Ive been where I am right now. Im not far away from my house, the 19-year-old said following a two-week break from social media. Im just coming on (to social media) to clear up some rumours that Im sick of hearing. Im not running, Im not fleeing. The police back home have advised me to stay here until it is safe. I cant go back to Northern Ireland because my whole family is in danger - and even more so me. Miss Allen claims she has had 30 death threats issued against her at home and in Spain but didnt say who had made the threats. Police advised me to stay safe and while Im here, staying safe, I have told the family every bit of information I know. The British police know Im helping and Ive got nothing to do with it. But right in this moment in time, no one is safe, especially me, until John is found, so I pray hes found, I really do, so my life can go back to normal and we can get back to our dogs. The other rumour I want to clear up is that my dogs have not been abandoned at all. Never in my life would I do that. We only moved house for our dogs, she said, adding that the six XL Bullies she owns are with the police. She continued: I asked (the family) did they want me to tell the Spanish police what I told them and they said yes. So the Spanish police were (called) and Im also waiting on them ringing back. They dont want to meet up with me, because they know I am safe here until John is found. No dogs have been abandoned, no ones fleeing the country. Hopefully John is found this week. Please say a prayer for his family. Ms Allens partner Jonny Smyth has also been in contact with John Georges family since his disappearance. Johns sister Courtney George previously told the Belfast Telegraph: I contacted Jonny and asked him, Do you know where my brother is? He said, No, me and him went our separate ways, I dont know where he is, I think he went to meet boys out in Benidorm. I just got a bad feeling about it and went back to Jonny who said, I dont know where he is, all he wanted to do was drink and I have a business to run. Cold snap to last until the weekend, Met Eireann says Low visibility during the last race at Naas Racecourse in Co Kildare yesterday. Photo: Inpho Brian and Ellen Kelleher enjoy the blizzard conditions at Mahon Falls in the Comeragh Mountains, Co Waterford. Photo: Patrick Browne Up to 60,000 without power overnight as schools in at least two counties to remain closed after heavy snowfall Tens of thousands of people were left without power overnight as heavy falls of rain, sleet and snow swept across the country, with counties in the south and southeast the worst affected by the cold snap. Schools in several counties are expected to stay closed today, with the decision left to individual boards of management, depending on local factors. ESB Networks said it was working hard to restore electricity but that many of the 59,000 homes, farms and businesses affected would not be reconnected for several days and that the weather warnings in place indicated that more people could lose power. Most of those affected were in counties Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, Kilkenny, Carlow, Laois and Wicklow. Around 15,000 water customers in Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Tipperary were without supplies yesterday evening, while another 33,000 in those counties, along with Wexford and Kerry, were at risk of losing water due to high demand and bursts on the network. Here at the Irish Independent on Monday, we will have a live blog here to keep you informed of the latest developments throughout the day. Playing at snow angels in Tralee. Photo: Domnick Walsh Current weather warning As of Monday morning, Met Eireann have issued a Status Yellow low temperature and ice warning for the entire country which will last until Thursday. The forecaster said that there will be hazardous travel conditions, icy patches of road and footpath and travel disruption right throughout the week. Here is today's forecast from Met Eireann: "Bitterly cold today with widespread frost and lying snow. There'll be sunshine and scattered showers of rain, hail, sleet and snow. Top temperatures generally ranging from 1-5 degrees but staying below freezing over snow-fields. Northwesterly winds will increase moderate to fresh and gusty, stronger for a time in Atlantic areas. "Clear spells and scattered sleet and snow showers, the showers most frequent in the west and north. Widespread frost and ice with lowest temperatures of -5 to 0 degrees in moderate west to northwest winds," the forecaster said. Pub owner Micheal Brosnan clears a path outside his bar in in Cashel, Co Tipperary. Photo: Reuters Temperatures will struggle to get over freezing today Met Eireann have said that temperatures today will struggle to climb above 0 degrees in most places, with it remaining below this mark on snow-covered fields. There is widespread frost and ice across the country this morning and motorists and commuters are asked to be vigilant when travelling this morning due to the likely treacherous conditions. Emergency crews are working hard to restore power to those cut off over the weekend. A spokesman for ESB Networks last night said: From our experience of previous significant weather events, we expect that power restoration in the worst affected areas will take multiple days. The freezing temperatures and hazardous conditions are slowing restoration efforts. Our crews will continue the restoration for as long as possible this evening but, with the difficult conditions, it is likely that the majority of customers will not have their power restored tonight. We acknowledge the disruption to family and commercial life this causes and thank impacted customers for their patience as our crews work to safely restore power. Heavy snowfall caused travel chaos yesterday, with a repeat expected today. Although it will be up to individual schools whether to open this morning, many in Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Offaly and Limerick are expected to remain shut today at least. Motorists were forced to abandon cars in several places in the most badly affected areas, while several accidents were also reported. "James will be missed by all of us, and specifically by his family to whom we send our deepest condolences. BAKO Group has acquired Finlay's Foods in Craigavon for an undisclosed sum The new owners of a Co Down bakery ingredients business have paid tribute to its founder after his death last month. BAKO Group said James Finlay, who was the founder and driving force behind James A S Finlay Ltd, died on Christmas Eve. The group had announced its acquisition of James A S Finlay in April last year. A spokesperson for BAKO said: James founded Finlays in 1970 and built a fantastic business which has grown to be a leading name in the Irish bakery trade, employing approximately 60 people at its purpose-built site in Maghaberry, which serves a customer base that extends throughout Northern Ireland into the Republic of Ireland, as well as the wider UK, Europe and Asia. And BAKO chief executive Mike Tully described Mr Finlay, who was 88, as a force of nature and his drive and vision were only matched by his dedication to the team. He added: We are proud that Finlays is part of the BAKO Group of companies and will continue to run and grow the business in a way that is a tribute to one of the bakery trades true gentlemen. "James will be missed by all of us, and specifically by his family to whom we send our deepest condolences. BAKO Group paid an undisclosed sum to acquire James A S Finlay, which Mr Finlay founded in 1970. The Northern Ireland business is now a major manufacturer of ingredients to the bakery and general food industry. Finlays Foods started out as a supplier of fruit pie fillings but has expanded to manufacture cheesecake toppings, fruit sauces and sweet mince. In 2000, it expanded into the confectionery market with the manufacture of sugar strands and sprinkles, becoming one of the UKs biggest manufacturers of the products. In 2010, it also began manufacturing jams and spreads. Clients of Finlays Foods include home bakeries, bakery chains and big industrial bakeries. BAKO Group provides independent bakers and caterers with ingredients and finished products from suppliers, and its own range. It has depots in Preston, Durham and Wimbledon and has 312 staff across its three sites. BAKO Group has acquired Finlay's Foods in Craigavon for an undisclosed sum Speaking at the time of the acquisition, Mr Tully said: Finlays Foods has established a strong presence and loyal customer base, which we intend to build upon and expand. By integrating Finlays Foods product line with our own, we are able to diversify our offerings and enhance our competitive edge. Their expertise in bakery products complements our current portfolio and opens up a wide range of cross-selling opportunities. Bringing Finlays Foods into the BAKO family will also provide substantial operational advantages, including optimised supply chains, shared resources, and enhanced production capabilities. The additional resources and capabilities from this acquisition provide us with the ability to accelerate innovation and drive growth, aligning with our commitment to offering high-quality products and services and exploring new market segments. The plague has killed around 200 million people worldwide throughout history. Vintage illustration Nurses tending to a plague victim in female ward of Grant Road Hospital Bombay India, Victorian healthcare, 1890s, 19th Century. The Bombay plague epidemic was a bubonic plague epidemic that struck the city of Bombay (present-day Mumbai) in the late nineteenth century Scientists behind the Oxford Covid jab are developing a bubonic plague vaccine amid fears a superbug strain of the Black Death could emerge. The plague has killed around 200 million people worldwide throughout history. But the team behind the Oxford/AstraZeneca coronavirus jab has now reported progress in its work on an inoculation. Three of the worlds seven known pandemics have been caused by the plague, a bacterial infection triggered by the Yersinia pestis microbe. It can be treated with antibiotics but none of the several vaccines in development are approved for use. Scientists have called for the UK to add a Black Death jab to its stockpile as the risk of a superbug strain rises. And now the Oxford team says a trial of its vaccine on 40 healthy adults which started in 2021 has yielded results which show it is safe and able to produce an immune response in people. The man behind the trial, Prof Sir Andrew Pollard, director of the Oxford Vaccine Group, told The Telegraph that the results of the trial are to be submitted to a journal for peer review within weeks, with further clinical trials expected. He said: There are no licensed plague vaccines in the UK. Antibiotics are the only treatment. There are some licensed vaccines in Russia. The risk in the UK is currently very low. Previous historical pandemics that had high mortality were associated with initiation from fleas on rodents but were driven by person to person spread. Government military scientists recently called for a vaccine to be approved and manufactured in bulk quantities because plague still exists in pockets of the world and has potential for pandemic spread. Scientists at Porton Downs Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) wrote in a paper in the journal NPJ Vaccines that vaccines need to be expedited to prevent future disastrous plague outbreaks. This, they add, is compounded by the rising issue of antimicrobial resistance which is creating superbug strains of plague that cannot be easily treated by antibiotics. Plague is spread by fleas which transmit the bacteria from the rodents that carry it to the humans they bite. The Black Death outbreak in the 1300s killed half the population of Europe, according to some estimates. It can manifest as bubonic plague, pneumonic plague or septicemic plague. Bubonic plague is 30 per cent fatal without treatment and is characterised by swollen and painful lymph nodes around the flea bite. Pneumonic is where the bacteria is breathed into the lungs and results in shortness of breath, fever and coughing up blood. This is 100 per cent fatal if not treated in 24 hours, and people can spread this to other humans via droplets. Bubonic and pneumonic can also develop into septicaemic plague, which is life-threatening. Since the advent of antibiotics in the 20th century there has been less concern over plague. However, antimicrobial resistance is now on the march globally and expected to kill 39 million people by 2050. DSTL scientists say there is a demonstrable risk of superbug plague evolving, with such strains already found in Madagascar and Peru. Professor Tim Atkins, a DTSL Fellow and lead in the chemical, biological and radiological division, told The Telegraph: If a person gets infected with an antibiotic-resistant strain of the plague bacteria, treatment might be less effective, and they could remain sick for longer. For pneumonic plague (spread by inhalation), this increases the chances of infecting others nearby. While resistant strains exist, there are still other antibiotics that can be used as backups. Antibiotic resistance isnt unique in the plague; its also a concern for common infections like MRSA in the UK. He added that the current risk of superbug plague currently is very low but said this could increase with climate change making it easier for animal diseases to spread to humans, Dr Simon Clarke, associate professor of cellular microbiology at the University of Reading, said: Until relatively recently, Yersinia pestis was regarded as widely susceptible to antibiotics, so eminently treatable if infection were detected early enough. However, thats changing, and resistance is increasing. Malign use in bioterrorism or biowarfare could see the bacteria spread relatively efficiently. At a time when were being warned of increased risk of everything from cyber warfare to a third nuclear age, use of pathogens to destabilise societies and spread panic might be appealing to some bad actors. If that were to happen, vaccination of the whole population would be the only way to grip such a situation quickly, so aligned states would probably be well advised to at least have the potential to quickly generate batches of vaccine. Former England and Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard revealed his delight at the news The couple regularly post about each other online Steven Gerrards daughter Lilly-Ella has revealed she is expecting a baby with Lee Byrne, the son of Dublin gang boss Liam Byrne. Lilly (20) and Crumlin native Lee have been dating for over two years and regularly spend time with Gerrards family in Bahrain, where they are based. The daughter of Liverpool legend Gerrard shared the news with her 200,000 followers on Instagram this evening, describing the news as our little secret. Lilly shared the post online Sharing a photograph with two pregnancy tests and two scan photos, Lilly shared: Our little secret, the best news, mini us is on the way. She tagged her partner Lee in the post who commented: I love yous forever and forever. Former England and Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard also revealed his delight at the news, writing: We cant wait with two love heart emojis. He added: Great news and congratulations, we love you. Lillys mother Alex also commented: Cant wait followed by a string of love heart emojis. Lee shared the post to his own page, accompanied by a world emoji. The couple, who have no involvement in crime, have been dating for two-and-a-half-years, and regularly share snippets of their romance online. The couple regularly post about each other online Lees dad Liam Byrne is currently serving a jail sentence in the UK for his role in a bizarre plot to import firearms in at attempt to get his brother-in-law, mob boss Thomas Bomber Kavanagh, a reduced sentence. A key member of the Kinahan cartel, Crumlin man Liam was arrested in Mallorca and extradited to the UK in December 2023. In October, Liam Byrne was sentenced to five years behind bars at the Old Bailey in London after pleading guilty to the conspiracy charges. The gang boss, who has been in custody since he was arrested in Spain in June 2023, is likely to be released within the next year after the judge ruled he can serve half his sentence on license. Reacting to the news at the time, his son Lee shared his delight at the prospect of his dads release, posting: Get in there and I love you da. He added see u sooooonnnnn!!!! to the social media post, alongside black sunglasses emojis. Also reacting to the news, Lily shared a snap of herself and Lee with the caption So happy for my Lee, Love you so, so much always. Last year, Lilly went all out for Lees 25th birthday and paid tribute to him online, describing him as my love and best friend. Farrells previous Golden Globe wins were for Irish black comedy films, In Bruges and The Banshees Of Inisherin Colin Farrell poses with his award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Limited Series. REUTERS/Mario Anzuoni Irish actor Colin Farrell won his third Golden Globe this morning for playing the Batman villain The Penguin in an HBO series of the same name. The Dubliner, speaking after landing the award in Beverly Hills in the early hours of the morning, said he does not feel part of the pantheon of comic book villains despite joining Joaquin Phoenix and Heath Ledger in winning a Golden Globe Award. Farrells previous Golden Globe wins were for Irish black comedy films, In Bruges and The Banshees Of Inisherin, which were both directed by Martin McDonagh. Recalling the three hours it took each day to fit him with prosthetics to make him the bloated villain in his latest film, he said: In the morning, I drank black coffee, listened to 80s music, and I became a canvas for that teams brilliance. Farrell also said: Thank you for employing me. And yeah, I guess its prosthetics from here on out. He follows in the footsteps of Phoenix who won in 2020 for his role in The Joker and late actor Ledger who won in 2009 for The Dark Knight. Colin Farrell in a scene from the series The Penguin (HBO via AP) In the winners room, Farrell said the two actors are for my money, the most extraordinary, talented and gifted and just brilliant artists in film that Ive ever had the fortune to observe and be affected by. What Heath did in Chris Nolans Dark Knight was extraordinary, and will live on for future generations and what Joaquin did with The Joker was as exemplified by all the awards that he won and the Oscar stuff it was extraordinary. So to have your name thrown into, just uttered in the same sentence, as those performances honestly, its lovely, but I still approach it all more from just a fan of it all. Colin Farrell poses in the press room with the award for best performance by a male actor in a limited series, anthology series, or a motion picture made for television (Chris Pizzello/AP) Colin Farrell poses with his award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Limited Series. REUTERS/Mario Anzuoni I dont feel like Im part of that pantheon, I dont think Ill go home tonight thinking Im part of that pantheon. During his on-stage speech, Farrell celebrated his fellow nominees including Andrew Scott. The actor beat Richard Gadd for dark comedy Baby Reindeer, Ewan McGregor for Russian-set historical comedy A Gentleman In Moscow, and Scott for the remake of Ripley on Netflix to best performance by a male actor in a limited or anthology series or TV film. He joked that he had no one to thank and did it all by myself. Andrew Scott was nominated for Ripley (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) To Scott, he recalled their first movie together, Drinking Crude, and said: (Andrew) who I did my first film with 25, 30 years ago. You cant even find it on Betamax. It doesnt exist. But we go back that far. He added to Scottish actor Gadd, whose experience of stalking and sexual assault inspired the Netflix hit series Baby Reindeer, that you broke my heart with your work this year. The Government has introduced a new, standardised, science-based method for measuring farm-level greenhouse gas emissions, aiming to enhance transparency and reduce complexity in the agriculture sector, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay announced today. Our farmers are among the most carbon-efficient food producers in the world, but they cant manage what they cant measure, Mr McClay said. This new methodology is a first step towards simplifying emissions management and ensuring farmers have access to reliable, trusted tools to address on-farm emissions. Currently, over 10 different calculators are used across the sector to estimate emissions, leading to confusion and additional administrative burden for farmers. The new standardised methodology, developed collaboratively with industry stakeholders, will align calculators and offer a consistent approach for estimating farm emissions. Key features of the new system include the use of farm-specific inputs such as stock counts, supplementary feed, dairy production, fertilizer use, and farm region. The design is accessible, low-cost, and auditable, leveraging data already available to most farmers. It will also receive ongoing updates to incorporate new scientific advancements and technological innovations. This initiative responds directly to the sectors call for a transparent, reliable tool to measure emissions, Mr McClay explained. To support this initiative, the Government has committed $400 million over the next four years to fund emission-reducing technologies. Mr McClay emphasized that the Government is dedicated to working with farmers to meet environmental obligations while protecting New Zealands agricultural industry. By providing farmers with the right tools, we can ensure they remain world leaders in high-quality, sustainable food production, while preventing the closure of farms or job losses, he added. Customs have arrested three drug couriers at Auckland Airport, seizing methamphetamine with a combined street value of more than NZ$10 million. The attempts involve two incidents, which are not believed to be related. A 33-year-old man and a 39-year-old man arriving from Toronto in Canada on New Year's Day were found to carry just over 20kg of methamphetamine in their checked-in suitcase. In the other case, a 59-year-old woman arriving from Honolulu Thursday night was found to carry about just under 7kg of methamphetamine. Customs officers searched the woman's baggage and found clothing that was stiff to the touch. Border testing indicated the presence of methamphetamine, which had been soaked into the clothing. Auckland Airport customs manager Paul Williams said drug couriers were trying to exploit the busy holiday travel period. "Day three into the new year and Customs has already stopped approximately NZ$10.2 million worth of methamphetamine from causing harm in our communities. "This is a result of the hard work of our frontline officers, supported by intelligence and targeting experts who have been working throughout the holiday season to identify and stop potential drug couriers." Williams urged travellers passing through airports to stay vigilant. "Keep your eyes out for suspicious activity, and if you notice anything unusual, report it to a Customs officer." The three suspects appeared in Manukau District Court earlier this week. -RNZ The Public Service Association union said at the time that Health NZ was being forced to meet the Governments unhinged and unplanned defunding of healthcare, no matter the consequences. She said Health NZ needed to move towards being more efficient and focus its resources on frontline healthcare. Health NZ chief executive Margie Apa confirmed in an August email to staff a voluntary redundancy scheme was being put in place for some workers. A union president says the figure represents a lot of people who were vital to making sure a hospital functions. Health NZ has paid out more than $250,000 to Bay of Plenty and Lakes staff who took voluntary redundancy after it was offered in August. The union said the country stood to lose workers who kept medical records safe and scheduled scans and operations. How many staff members applied for voluntary redundancy? Information received under the Official Information Act said Health NZ announced an opportunity on August 28 to eligible staff to consider voluntary redundancy, ahead of a more formal change process in the coming months. On November 27, Health NZ confirmed plans to cut a large number of roles. Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora interim chief human resources officer Fiona McCarthy said staff employed under individual employment agreements or covered by two specific Public Service Association collective agreements were eligible to apply for voluntary redundancy. The two agreements covered an estimated 15,000 employees nationally, though not all were eligible to take up the offer. Frontline clinical staff were not eligible for voluntary redundancy and other criteria and exclusions applied. Health NZ received 70 expressions of interest from staff on the Bay of Plenty and Lakes payrolls, and made 62 offers, according to the information released under the Act. The neighbouring health districts cover Tauranga, Whakatane, Rotorua, and Taupo public hospitals. Nationally, 863 expressions of interest were received from staff and 670 offers were made. As of November 8, $251,082 in redundancy payouts had been made to Bay of Plenty and Lakes staff who were paid through the local payroll and accepted voluntary redundancy. This figure excluded final salary or leave entitlements. The information said staff who had accepted offers would have varying end dates, and the spend would not reflect the number of accepted offers, as payment was only made when employment ended. In April, NZME reported that almost $400,000 was paid out to seven Health NZ employees in the districts whose roles were made redundant due to the health reform. Cuts are relentless Public Service Association president Virgil Iraia - who lives in Rotorua and works at Tauranga Hospital - told the Bay of Plenty Times he is part of the data and digital team which had lost staff from voluntary redundancies. He said this made the remaining teams work a bit more pressured. Obviously when we lose people and we cant replace them, the onus and the expectation is for others to pick up [the work]. He said the team had done this because it wanted the hospital running as it should. Public Service Association president Virgil Iraia - who lives in Rotorua and works at Tauranga Hospital - pictured at the PSA congress in September. Photo / Supplied Weve had to come in and support our colleagues at Rotorua Hospital just because theres been redundancies. Both teams are down across the two districts, he said in December. He said the $251,082 figure represented a lot of people, a lot of salaries. Weve lost people in terms of FTE [fulltime equivalent] that are all vital to making sure a hospital functions accordingly. He said proposed cuts to the health sector had been relentless in the run-up to Christmas. Health is a vital service so were just trying to pressure the Government ... to rethink their decision around these cuts to Te Whatu Ora. In response, McCarthy said staff had chosen to apply for voluntary redundancy having reflected on their own personal circumstances and what is right for them. As we accept each voluntary redundancy, the impact of the person leaving, and workloads are taken into account. In some areas, a change to how the service works may be required. In other areas roles may be replaced if important to continuity. A staff member shows special stamps marking the Year of the Snake in Guiyang, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Jan. 5, 2025. China Post on Sunday unveiled a set of two special stamps to celebrate the upcoming Chinese zodiac Year of the Snake. (Xinhua/Tao Liang) People wait to buy special stamps marking the Year of the Snake at a post office in Guiyang, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Jan. 5, 2025. China Post on Sunday unveiled a set of two special stamps to celebrate the upcoming Chinese zodiac Year of the Snake. (Xinhua/Tao Liang) People buy special stamps marking the Year of the Snake at a post office in Guiyang, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Jan. 5, 2025. China Post on Sunday unveiled a set of two special stamps to celebrate the upcoming Chinese zodiac Year of the Snake. (Xinhua/Tao Liang) This photo taken on Jan. 5, 2025 shows the issuance ceremony of special stamps marking the Year of the Snake in Beijing, capital of China. China Post on Sunday unveiled a set of two special stamps to celebrate the upcoming Chinese zodiac Year of the Snake. (Xinhua/Li He) People buy special stamps marking the Year of the Snake on the day of issuance in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 5, 2025. China Post on Sunday unveiled a set of two special stamps to celebrate the upcoming Chinese zodiac Year of the Snake. (Xinhua/Li He) A man shows newly-purchased special stamps marking the Year of the Snake in southwest China's Chongqing, Jan. 5, 2025. China Post on Sunday unveiled a set of two special stamps to celebrate the upcoming Chinese zodiac Year of the Snake. (Xinhua/Tang Yi) Update, 6.45pm: Traffic congestion on State Highway 2 near Te Puna Stream, Whakamarama, has eased following an earlier vegetation fire, according to NZTA Waka Kotahi. "Traffic levels have returned to normal." Earlier, motorists experienced significant delays of up to two hours on SH2 due to a scrub fire which was attended by multiple fire emergency crews. The fire,which was reported to Fire and Emergency New Zealand at 1.48pm was near the bridge between Barrett Road and Te Karaka Drive on SH2. Fire crews from Omokoroa, Greerton, Katikati, Tauranga, Waihi and Te Puke attended, according to an online Fire and Emergency incident report. PowerCo has reported that power has also been restored to over 200 properties, following a power outage at 1.47pm in the Whakamarama area. Update, 5.22pm: Congestion remains on State Highway 2 near Te Puna Stream following an earlier fire that has since been extinguished. NZTA Waka Kotahi said earlier to expect significant delays of up to two hours due to a scrub fire and to take care when passing the scene. "Expect delays as traffic returns to normal. Consider using an alternative route." An alternative northbound route is via SH29 Kaimai Range on to SH24 on to SH27 on to SH26 before rejoining SH2. The southbound detour is in reverse. "Or delay your journey," an NZTA spokesperson said. Update, 4.20pm: The vegetation fire reported in the Whakamarama area near Te Puna Stream is now contained, said a Fire and Emergency spokesperson. The spokesperson said nine crews were sent to the fire; three are still at the scene dampening the area. Fire and Emergency New Zealand services at the scene. Photo: Tonya Pollard. Update, 3.30pm: State Highway 2 traffic near the Te Puna Stream Bridge is reduced to one lane, due to a large scrub fire nearby. An NZTA Waka Kotahi statement at 3.30pm said this is causing significant traffic delays. Emergency services are on the scene and NZ Police is providing traffic control. Traffic is building with delays of approximately 60 minutes southbound from Waihi, and 30 minutes northbound from Te Puna. Motorists should delay their trips or expect delays. Please take care when passing the scene. Motorists are advised of an alternative route via State Highway 29 over Kaimai Range onto State Highway 27 onto State Highway 26 before rejoining SH2. The traffic backed up due to the fire. Photo: Tonya Pollard. Update, 3.05pm: Emergency services are urging members of the public to delay travel between Tauranga and Katikati as they respond to a scrub fire reported in the Whakamarama area near Te Puna Stream. State Highway 2 and some nearby roads are blocked, a Police spokesperson said. Motorists are advised to take an alternate route and avoid the area. Police said initial reports were received around 1.50pm. Earlier, 2.10pm: Emergency services are responding to a vegetation fire along State Highway 2, near Whakamarama in the Western Bay of Plenty. The fire is reported to be near the bridge between Barrett Road and Te Karaka Drive. Fire crews from Omokoroa, Greerton, Katikati, Tauranga, Waihi and Te Puke are attending, according to an online Fire and Emergency incident report. The fire was reported to Fire and Emergency New Zealand at 1.48pm. Motorists are advised to take care in the area and to expect traffic delays. Due to a scrub fire, expect delays in this area and take extra care when passing the scene. Avoid the area or consider delaying your journey, a NZTA Waka Kotahi spokesperson said. SunLive will update the traffic situation once more information is available. The bridge on SH2, near Whakamarama. Image: Google Maps. Power outage PowerCo has reported an unplanned power outage in the Whakamarama area. The power cut occurred at 1.47pm and is affecting 179 properties in the Minden area. A power cut which occurred at 1.53pm is affecting 34 properties in the Whakamarama area. PowerCo advised that a site investigation is underway with field crew en route to the scene. Power is expected to be restored by 6pm. At the scene? Phone 0800SUNLIVE or email newsroom@thesun.co.nz Tauranga Boys High School principal Andrew Turner said his school was doing its best to address the issue and had employed more staff to work with families. The figures show most regions in New Zealand are starting to slowly increase attendance rates but the countrys schools are a long way off what they were before Covid-19 struck in 2020. New attendance figures released by the Ministry of Education for term three show the regions schools are below the national average despite an improvement on the prior years term-three figures. Bay of Plenty schools are grappling with low attendance rates with one principal saying they are having to reform habits students have made since Covid-19 to teach young people to get up, go somewhere and add value. The cool thing is we are committed to it and we all agree on the importance of it. He said despite the progress, attendance levels had not been the same since before Covid-19. We are seeing patterns of behaviour where it has become permissible to stay home so what schools are working hard on is addressing the habit of attending. Turner said society was dealing with the same problem and that attitude was reflected in the workforce. Its addressing the habit of attending, going to work, fronting up in a timely fashion We are looking to reform habits and that includes the habit of getting up and going somewhere and adding value, and thats the shift we need. Otumoetai College principal Russell Gordon. Photo / Supplied Otumoetai College principal Russell Gordon said it was a complex issue but schools were being asked to record students as having unjustified absences when they could be on an overseas trip gaining valuable life skills or competing in extracurricular activities that could eventually benefit their careers. He said this year alone he had signed about 100 letters permitting parents to take their children out of school during term for extended overseas or national trips. He said they might be trips to the South Island or Europe but either way, it affected the schools attendance statistics. As far as Im concerned those are life experiences these kids will learn and grow from so its an interesting dilemma. We cant say to these parents, No, you cant take your child. Yes, they are losing out on curriculum learning but they are learning in other instances and when you combine them they can lead to growing a well-rounded individual. He said he recently approved one of his students to go overseas to compete in a dance competition for two weeks. The student had real career aspirations as a dancer and such competitions were critical for her future, he said. On paper thats an unjustified absence but she is doing this because it will serve her career opportunities. He said schools were also tasked with trying to maintain students for longer and were asked to be more engaging. We will never be as exciting to some as PlayStation. He said when schools recorded someone as away sick, it could relate to other situations, such as mental health issues. Gordon said it would be good to have a review of the attendance criteria but he understood it had not been a priority given the sweeping changes in the education sector in recent years. But the whole way we look at attendance is not nuanced enough. Gordon said Otumoetai Colleges overall attendance was increasing and he was comfortable with where it was heading. What the figures show Nationally 51.3% of students met the criteria in term three for regular attendance - which meant they were at school more than 90% of the term. In the Bay of Plenty, 47.8% of students were regularly attending in term three. The best region was Canterbury and Chatham Islands which had a record of 54.9% of students regularly attending and the worst area was Tai Tokerau (Northland). Boys have slightly better attendance than girls with 51.7% of boys regularly attending 90% of the time compared with 50.9% of girls. The best year levels for slightly higher attendance were Years 4, 5 and 6. The worst year levels for attendance were Years 10, 12 and 13. What the Ministry of Education says Students are required to attend school every day under Section 36 of the Education and Training Act and school boards must ensure students attend. Ministry operations and integration leader Sean Teddy said going to school every day was important for students to develop skills for lifelong learning. He said holidays taken during term time should be recorded as an unjustified absence. Parents and schools must prioritise school attendance. Principals had discretion to approve absences for up to five days, he said. The new Stepped Attendance Response required all absences to have an appropriate and proportionate response. From 2026, all schools will be required to have an attendance management plan, Teddy said. From term 1 this year, schools must report daily attendance data to the ministry, using refreshed codes for different types of absences, or a truancy code if no reason was provided. He said prosecution would not be initiated for parents of students absent for genuine reasons or who were engaging with a school and support options offered. Exceptional attendance When Casey Pauls family wanted to go to Hawaii, the Rotorua Girls High School student said no. It was not because basking in the glorious sunshine was not appealing, it was because the 16-year-old, who says she has not missed a day of school since she started as a 5-year-old, was determined not to break her perfect record. Casey Paul, 16, from Rotorua hasn't missed a day of school since she started as a 5-year-old. Photo / Kelly Makiha She said her achievement had been celebrated every year at schools she had attended, including Westbrook School, Rotorua Intermediate School and Rotorua Girls High School. Casey is Year 13 in 2025 and said she was on a quest to achieve the perfect record for all her school years. She loved school so going was easy. But she said she also liked being a role model for other students by continuing to have a perfect attendance record. Her mother, Paula, said the family was proud of her achievements, although they have had to juggle their lives around a bit to help her achieve her goals - including cancelling a family holiday to Hawaii. The flights they had planned to book meant Casey would need to miss two days of school at the end of a term - which was not an option for Casey. She has also struck gold so far in terms of illness - only getting Covid-19 in the school holidays and not suffering any major sickness during term. Paula has even made special requests for specialist appointments for Caseys braces to ensure there were no absences. When students returned to school after the lockdown in 2020, Casey took her health seriously and wore gloves and a mask for the first few weeks. Casey said attendance was important to her because she did not want to fall behind at school and wanted to prove to future employers she was dedicated. Its not just school where Casey puts in the hard yards. Casey Paul was named 2024 Lakes District St John Cadet of the Year. Photo / Supplied She has just been promoted at St John Cadets to the rank of sergeant and was named 2024 District Cadet of the Year for the Lakes District. Her goal is to attend the University of Auckland and eventually become a paramedic. I want to work for St John because Nana needed ambulances when she had falls. I like helping people and at primary school teachers nicknamed me a mother hen because I would always help others before myself. Casey is already looking forward to excelling at Rotorua Girls High School in her final year. I really like the diversity of girls high. No culture is overlooked and theres a diverse range of arts and sports. No matter who youre taught by, it feels like you always have a place there. Principal Sarah Davis described Casey as one of lifes great treasures. She is universally loved by the student population. They see her as a living legend. Davis said the school had focused on improving attendance levels through shared fortnightly records, by running a spin the wheel prize each term for those who had perfect attendance and making it compulsory for students to have an 85% or better attendance if they wanted to represent the school in sport or other activities. Principals of Westbrook and Rotorua Intermediate schools also confirmed Caseys perfect record. Ignacio Lillo Malaga Monday, 6 January 2025, 12:22 Compartir Christmas is back, Santa Claus, the Three Kings and lots of presents. With them comes the whim of having a pet. A few months later, the puppy will grow up and become an adult dog, which has to be taken out several times a day, fed and taken to the vet, and which cannot be left alone in the house all day. There are still far too many cases of those who end up abandoning the animal, either in a municipal animal protection centre or in an NGO or charitable association that runs so many shelters in Malaga province. In the city of Malaga the Sociedad Protectora advises that, between January and November last year, 873 dogs and cats in distress were collected. The worst thing about this harsh figure is that there is an even harsher reality behind every case, which illustrates how far we still have to go to achieve a better and wider social awareness of what responsible pet ownership really entails. A large number of these surrenders to shelters correspond to abandoned litters, which can involve taking in up to a dozen animals at once. "They are often left in rubbish bins, still with the [umbilical] cord, and it is almost impossible to give them a good start in life. In addition, the mother is left in a very bad state, with a high risk of disease. It's inhumane," said the shelter's president, Carmen Manzano. 400 Dogs and cats, along with other rescued animals, live at the Protectora de Animales city pound, when its capacity for sheltering animals is planned for 250. So it is not surprising that most of the 20 dogs and 9 cats that have died in these facilities during the year were puppies and kittens, "who could not survive without their mother." "We have to insist again and again on the need for sterilisation; it is the only way to avoid unwanted litters and newborn deaths." In addition to this, there is a second harsh reality, which is the surrender of older animals suffering from serious illnesses or who have been victims of accidents, and whose owners claim that they cannot afford to pay the high veterinary bills. On this point, Carmen Manzano pointed out that the IVA tax rate is still 21% when vets bill the shelters, which makes any treatment very expensive. There is also some good news, because not everything is negative. Abandonment is on a downward trend in Malaga, although less than would be desirable. So it looks like 2024 will have closed at around 1,000 rescues, compared to 1,121 in 2023 and 1,148 in 2022. Almost every month the statistics are down on the previous two. Less abandonments The shelter currently houses 400 animals, to which must be added the 74 cats and 40 dogs living in foster homes, either because they are very young or for health reasons to prevent them from catching the infectious diseases that are common in the shared kennels that are currently over-capacity as previously mentioned. It is also true that the years when the management and volunteers had to find space for more than 600 dogs are now behind them. "We are a little better off, we have restructured the shelter with kennels for recently sterilised females and those in heat, and with that we have reduced the capacity a little... But abandonment is still almost the same," said Manzano. Zoom A family picking up their newly adopted dog. Marilu Baez She goes on to highlight an especially cruel form of abandonment: the one when animals are returned after having been adopted, generally when they were mostly puppies. In the last year there have been no less than 43 such cases (41 dogs and 2 cats). "They adopt an adorable puppy and discover that it grows up and is not a cuddly toy. Then, going from a home back to the shelter is very hard and cruel." Adoptions Although abandonment is still a serious problem, it is largely compensated by a growing number of adoptions. Out of 873 dogs and cats that came in this year, 855 found a new family. They are mostly locally-based residents, while the number of dogs and cats sent to other countries, which was once very important, has fallen sharply. "I wonder if we have already saturated the market? There are associations that are sending greyhounds to the United States and Canada." In the shelter are left those that nobody wants, especially the large dog breeds, which are not usually suitable for living in small city flats, or potentially dangerous breeds, as well as elderly, sick or those with serious behavioural problems. The municipal animal health centre continues to take in numerous abandoned dogs. By virtue of an agreement with Malaga city council, 153 dogs and 8 cats were taken into care by the team as of November. The organisation has also collaborated with the Local Police in the rescue of over 70 animals, mostly dogs that, thanks to the microchip, it has been possible to return most of them to their families. Javier Almellones Malaga Monday, 6 January 2025, 14:05 Compartir An orangutan prowling around the wine presses on the slopes of Santo Pitar or a puma that jumped on the bonnet of a car on a road in the Serrania de Ronda's Genal valley. These are two examples of the local legends that are told, but for which there is no proof in the villages of Malaga province. Some of the stories have even made it into the newspapers. There are also, in some cases, photographs or videos taken by witnesses, but the animals were never found. Here are some examples... 1 The orangutan of El Borge Zoom On the way to the Santo Pitar, where it is said that an orang-utan was seen. SUR It is not known for sure in which year there was panic over a large primate in the area around El Borge in the Axarquia, but it was a long time ago. So long ago in fact that there were not even television sets in Spanish homes. Today it remains a legend, as there was no trace of the orangutan which, according to the story, lurked among the farmhouses and wine presses near Santo Pitar, the peak which once belonged to El Borge and which today forms part of Malaga city. The rumour of the existence of an orangutan in the area gave rise to a joke by a local man, who decided to dress up in goats' skins to scare partygoers at the wine press it was said to have been spotted near. Nothing has ever been found of the primate, although there are those who maintain that it was really a young man from the area who decided to dress up so that a secret affair he was having with a neighbour would not be discovered. 2 The Genal valley puma Zoom A papier-mache puma that ironically settled in Juzcar. In the spring of 2002, in the idyllic landscape of this area of the Serrania de Ronda, some locals claimed to have seen a large feline. Testimonies from locals in villages such as Atajate or Benadalid and even Jimera de Libar, in the adjoining Guadiaro valley, made Spain's environment agency and Seprona (the Guardia Civil's nature protection unit) investigate. It was said that the wild animal, which, according to the definition given by those who claimed to have seen it, could have been a puma, had killed a foal and several sheep and goats. Someone claimed that it had jumped on the bonnet of his car on a dark night. There was speculation that it had escaped from an animal park or even from a private individual who held it in captivity. But after many weeks of searching, no trace of the animal was found. Little by little it was no longer talked about, although some people used humour to remember it. In a hotel in Juzcar they even made a statue which stood at the entrance of the establishment. 3 The black panther of La Cala de Mijas Zoom Photograph of the area where a British resident of Mijas claimed to see a black feline. In the first days of autumn 2007 the residents of Los Claveles residential area in the centre of La Cala de Mijas were also startled after hearing the testimonies of some residents who claimed to have seen with their own eyes and even photographed with their mobiles a black panther. One resident claimed that he had seen it in a tree in the area, which led him to believe that it was not a dog but a feline. Local police and Guardia Civil officers searched the area, but again there was no sign of it. There was speculation that the animal had escaped from an owner who had it in captivity illegally, but it was never found. There were not even footprints or other traces of the alleged wild animal's passage. 4 A python at the mouth of the Guadalhorce River Zoom Image capture of a video made in 2007 by an amateur ornithologist. Before the end of 2007, just before the December long weekend, an ornithology enthusiast claimed he'd seen a large snake in the natural area of the Desembocadura del Guadalhorce. Logic led him to think that it was a 'bastard snake', which is native to the area, but the colours and even the size of the animal made him doubt. For this reason, he photographed and even videotaped its presence a day later. This was also corroborated by a professional ornithologist. The images left the experts in no doubt. It was an Indian python, a snake that could perfectly well feed on water rats or coots in the Desembocadura del Guadalhorce natural area, although it was not its place. Someone could have abandoned it there. The news caused panic among many parents in the Guadalmar residential area, as the place where the animal was seen and recorded was only a few metres from the local primary school. Despite a thorough search of the area for the animal, it was never seen or found again. 5 The Iberian lynx of Genal Once again, a large feline in the Genal Valley. Eighteen years after residents of this area of the Serrania de Ronda claimed to have seen a puma, a German tourist said he saw another one, but this time of smaller size and native to the area, an Iberian lynx. It is true that many decades ago this wild animal may have formed part of the ecosystem of areas such as the Genal valley, but not even the graphic evidence shown by the German visitor managed to convince many experts. It was not even ruled out that this possible lynx might have passed through the area, at a time when it had experienced the first confinement due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In fact, in some mountain ranges in Cadiz it was also claimed to have been seen. This animal is known for its ability to travel long distances. On this occasion, the place where the German tourist claimed to have recorded the animal is a spot located between Farajan and the old Fabrica de Hojalata, now converted into an organic wine cellar, in the municipality of Juzcar. After the initial commotion about the possible sighting of the animal, there have been no further indications of it passing through the area. * There are several wild animals that have been seen and found in the province of Malaga in recent years, such as a crocodile found dead in the Las Lagunas area of Mijas or a boa constrictor captured by agents of the Seprona nature protection group in the Campanillas district of Malaga. Anchorage, AK, A woman originally from the Oswego County area has been missing for several months in Alaska, her family and police say. Kelsey Thomas, 33, was reported missing on Jan. 1, according to a news release by the Anchorage Police Department Saturday. Her last known location was in Anchorage, Alaska, according to her family. Thomas sister Brooke Demott said her family has not been able to talk to her since September. They went looking for her at her last known place of residence, last known place of employment, they ran her social security number, and shes just nowhere, Demott said. They just dont know where she is, and they have not had any luck in locating her. Thomas grew up in the Oswego area and graduated from Oswego High School in 2009. She later moved to Alaska and has lived there for the past eight years, Demott said. Her ex-husband was stationed in Anchorage. Demott said Thomas had a son and stayed in the area with him. Thomas has a history of drug abuse, Demott said, but she is worried she is in danger and has been sex-trafficked. In Anchorage alone, there were 40,000-60,000 online advertisements for trafficked people per month, the Alaska Beacon. The paper reported some of those advertisements were for the same person posted more than once. Demott said most of Thomas' family is in New York and they dont know what to do. But they have hope Thomas will be found, Demott said. Kelsey is 56 feet tall and approximately 130 pounds, police said. She has brown hair and green eyes. Anchorage police ask anyone with information on the whereabouts of Kelsey Thomas to call dispatch at 3-1-1 (option 1) (a non-emergency contact for police in Alaska) or (907) 786-8900 (option 0). Staff writer Darian Stevenson covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at dstevenson@syracuse.com Syracuse, N.Y. A state of Washington man was arrested at Syracuse Hancock International Airport after trying to bring two assault rifles, a silencer, and high-capacity magazines on a flight, according to airport police. Joseph Paul Bayley, 44, of Seattle, Washington had two assault rifles, a silencer, and high-capacity magazines in his checked luggage, according to the Syracuse Regional Airport Authority. Around 4:25 p.m. Friday, police were alerted by TSA personnel checking bags going out on departing flights to possible suspicious items in a piece of checked luggage. Police said Bayleys luggage contained a silencer and four large-capacity ammunition feeding devices for a 10/22 Ruger assault rifle, according to a criminal complaint filed in Syracuse City Court. The luggage also contained two 5.56 large-capacity ammunition feeding devices for an Aero Precision, Model AP15 assault rifle, according to the complaint. Both rifles had an adjustable stock, a pistol grip and a detachable magazine, police said. Bayley, who is a chef, was charged with four counts of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon, according to court records. He was transported to the Onondaga County Centralized Arraignment Court later that evening, where he was remanded to the Onondaga County Justice Center on $50,000 cash bail or $100,000 bond. He is no longer in the jail. Staff writer Darian Stevenson covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at dstevenson@syracuse.com JERUSALEM, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- The number of foreign tourists visiting Israel in 2024 fell by 68.1 percent compared to 2023, according to data released by the country's Central Bureau of Statistics on Monday. The number of tourists arriving in Israel last year totaled 961,300, compared to 3.01 million in the previous year and an all-time high of 4.55 million in 2019. The statement attributed the significant decline to the ongoing conflict that broke out on Oct. 7, 2023. Following the onset of the conflict, most foreign airlines have stopped or significantly reduced their flights to Israel. The data also revealed that most of the tourists who visited Israel in 2024 came from the United States, France, Britain, and Russia. Meanwhile, the number of departures abroad of Israelis decreased to 7.08 million in 2024, marking a 21.7-percent drop year-on-year. Ringo Starr and Friends are celebrating the January 10th release of his brand-new country album, Look Up, with two solo performances in Nashville, Tennessee at the Ryman Auditorium on January 14 and 15. Although both concerts are already sold out, fans can still secure tickets through secondary market platforms such as Vivid Seats, SeatGeek, and StubHub, which offer verified tickets with buyer guarantees. Heres a look at the best prices available (including fees): January 14 January 15 Prices and availability are noted at the time of publishing and are subject to change. Look Up is Starrs first full-length country album in more than 50 years and features guest appearances by Alison Krauss, Billy Strings, Larkin Poe, Lucius, and Molly Tuttle, among others. The albums debut single, Time on My Hands, is now available to stream on Apple Music (free trial). Starrs Nashville concerts will be followed by a 10-date summer tour with his All Starr Band, which will kick off on June 12 at the Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater in Bridgeport, Connecticut. A complete list of tour dates is available here. Billy Gibbons, the vocalist-guitarist of ZZ Top, will embark on a solo tour this month with his band, the BFGs. The tour begins on January 17 with three back-to-back nights at Blue Note Hawaii in Honolulu, HI. The 25-date trek will include stops in cities like Napa, Cleveland, Atlantic City, Poughkeepsie, and Beverly before wrapping up on February 20 in Bristol, TN. Following his solo tour, Gibbons will perform with ZZ Top members Frank Beard and Elwood Francis on the Elevation tour, which will kick off on March 5 in Dothan, AL, and run through August 23. A complete list of Gibbons tour dates is available here. Tickets to select tour dates can be purchased online through Ticketmaster or secondary market platforms such as Vivid Seats, SeatGeek, and StubHub, which offer verified tickets with buyer guarantees. These platforms may offer below-face-value pricing and availability for sold-out shows, depending on demand. Gibbons first announced his solo career in 2015, releasing his debut album, Perfectamundo, that November. He subsequently launched two more albums: The Big Bad Blues in 2018 and Hardware in 2021. Hes also known for his numerous hits with ZZ Top, including La Grange, Tush, Sharp Dressed Man, Legs, Gimme All Your Lovin, and Cheap Sunglasses. You can stream Gibbons extensive discography on Apple Music (free trial). Camillus, N.Y. Larry Woolshlager and his wife were in Florida on Sunday, so their son went to their Camillus home to take out the trash. When he opened the garage door, he was in for a shock: The garage floor had collapsed, and the familys two cars had fallen into a huge hole. Boxes, furniture and other items were strewn on top of the cars. The collapse was reported around 11:45 a.m. Sunday at 154 Terrace Way in the Orchard Village neighborhood in Camillus. Woolshlager said on Monday that he and his wife Karen left for Florida on Saturday morning, so no one was home when the floor collapsed. He found out about the collapse when his son contacted him. The two cars in the garage, a 2022 Mazda and a 2024 Nissan Rogue, were damaged, Woolshlager said. He is talking with insurance companies this week to figure out a plan regarding the cars and the damage to the garage. David Weber, the deputy fire marshal for the Town of Camillus, said he believes there was a vault under the garage. It appears that there is no foundation underneath the garage, and the floor was being held up by I-beams which likely rusted and gave way, he said. The four-bedroom, two-story home was built in 1965, according to county records. Garage floor collapses are a known, but rare, phenomenon in the Syracuse area, the syracuse.com | The Post-Standard found in 2018 . The homes where the collapses happen tend to have a few things in common. They were built before 1980, often in the 1950s and 1960s. They have attached garages. Most are ranches, though that does not apply to the Terrace Way home. In many cases, the void beneath the garage was inaccessible from inside the house. The concrete slabs for many of the garages were poured on top of a hole and then held up by steel beams and rebar or loosely packed fill. Road salt falling off vehicles could eat away at the rebar and weaken the support structure. The collapses often come with no warning to homeowners. There are ways to check the stability of a garage floor such as checking for cracks in the floor, checking to see if the floor sinks and drilling a small hole in the concrete or tapping the floor to listen for a hollow sound. Related article: Is my garage floor going to collapse? 7 ways to test your concrete slab Twelve preschoolers sat cross-legged in a circle in Delaware Primary Schools Room 105 as their teacher passed around gingerbread to smell. In the corner of the room is a kid-sized sink and water fountain students use to learn about handwashing, cleaning and cooking. Its also where they drink water. Last summer, that water contained an outrageous amount of lead. In 2020, a test detected almost no traces of lead in the fixtures water. But by 2023, another test found that the water was contaminated by lead at a level 25 times higher than what the state considers safe to drink, records show. Other fountains and sinks in the school followed a similar pattern. One across the hall was more than 40 times higher than the safe limit. Another classroom sink was nearly 30 times higher. And a sink in one of the buildings hallways was more than 400 times the limit. In all, 36 fixtures at the school on the citys West Side failed the states lead test in 2023 and 2024, records show. In the latest round of testing, lead levels exceeded the states safety limit in fixtures at nearly every Syracuse school, a Syracuse.com investigation has found. Across 33 buildings, water in 138 sinks and 36 water fountains tested too high for lead. One of every 10 fixtures failed the lead test, according to the Syracuse.com analysis. Schools in New York state are required to test building water for lead every three years. The district has managed to bring the lead levels down to a safe amount in every building. Staff replaced different parts of fixtures or installed new ones. After replacing the bubblers on some of the fountains at Delaware, January tests found almost no lead in the water. Often, though, its unclear where the lead is coming from or what change will fix it. Some fixtures are repaired and retested two or three times before they reach a safe level. The patchwork response leaves kids vulnerable in the years between required testing. When did a fountain become dangerous in the three years between tests? How many kids drank that water while the district waited for the next round of testing? The district appears to be following state recommendations and requirements to fix the problem, but experts say its only the bare minimum. Tests may be unreliable, they say, and students could be left drinking lead-contaminated water even after fixtures are updated. Best practices in other states show the solution is simple and affordable. Instead of Syracuses test and tell practice, experts say the district should install centralized bottle filling stations and fountains with point of use filters 1 for every 100 students. For the school population in Syracuse, that would cost about $500,000, according to equipment estimates from the Natural Resources Defense Council. Lead poisoning among children has been a problem in Syracuse for years. Nearly 10% of Syracuse children tested in 2024 had elevated levels of lead in their blood, according to the Onondaga County Health Department. Much of the issue stems from lead paint in Syracuses aging homes. But water has become a recent concern across the city as well, especially after confusion over high tests in the citys general water service. Dr. Travis Hobart, director of the Central/Eastern New York Lead Poisoning Resource Center, said the school district does a good job of fixing problem fountains. But he said centralized filtration would reduce risk to children. We are unable to say what, if any, exposure may occur between tests every three years, he said. Children drinking from those fountains that show high lead water content risk exposure to lead. Jaquia Bolds son Ashton, 3, attends preschool in one of the Delaware classrooms. She wishes the district had a more permanent solution to alleviate worries between tests. This is our primary resource and these are people who may not have the income to afford bottled water or filters, Bolds said. I feel the state should come in and do whats best for these children and our community. Preschool students in a Delaware Primary School classroom listen to Rob DiFlorio, the district's chief operations officer. The district fixed the classroom's fountain and sink after the drinking water tested with high levels of lead.Michelle Breidenbach What does Syracuse do? Lead pipes and lead solder used on other pipes were commonly used in construction until they were banned in 1986. Pipes, faucets and valves including new parts advertised as lead free can contain lead. Experts say it is important to know how the water samples were collected in order to analyze the test results. The water in Syracuse, which mostly comes from Skaneateles Lake, does not contain lead. School buildings in Syracuse also do not use lead pipes, according to district officials. But lead can leach into the water supply through other parts of sinks and fountains. And water can collect high levels of lead when it sits unused in a contaminated water line. In 2016, a new state law required schools to start testing drinking water for lead. At the time, districts needed to shut off and fix any fixtures that had more than 15 parts per billion of lead. The law changed in 2021 to lower the action level from 15 ppb to 5 ppb and to require testing every three years instead of five. Many fixtures exceeded both limits in the latest round of testing. In the latest round of testing, 23 water fountains and 53 sinks that had previously tested below state limits were too high, according to a syracuse.com analysis. Thats at least 76 fixtures where students could have been drinking lead-contaminated water in the years between tests. The district hired TDK Engineering, an engineering consultant company in Camillus, to manage the lead testing. The company sends instructions to school maintenance staff on how to prep the water for the test. The state recommends that water must stay motionless between eight and 18 hours before a sample is taken. It also says to avoid collecting samples after long breaks in the winter or summer. Rob DiFlorio, the school districts chief operations officer, declined to provide the name and contact information for the person who handles the citys testing, instead directing reporters to the firms website. Thomas Trytek, the companys founder, said he could not comment on the test results. Once the district receives the testing numbers, staff shut off any fixtures that test above the states action level and make a remediation plan. After the most recent round of testing, staff repaired or replaced 163 fixtures that tested above 5 ppb, records show. Maintenance staff also removed 32 of the affected fixtures and placed signs on 21 of them. Records do not show how many filters were added to fixtures. Some fixtures failed in both 2020 and 2023-2024, despite the districts fixes. Students continued to use these fixtures during the years between tests in pools, classrooms and hallways. In 2020, a fountain used in the pool area at Dr. Weeks Elementary School tested at 8.1 ppb. Since the state limit was 15 ppb then, nothing was done. By July 2023, the fountain went up to 11.6 ppb and was replaced. In March 2024, the new one still tested high and was removed. Fixtures in Blodgett Middle School repeatedly failed. In 2020, the district replaced three sinks one in a classroom and two in the health center. They tested within limits right after they were replaced, but were high again by 2023. One reached 145 ppb. And at Corcoran High School, multiple fixtures were repaired and retested three times during the latest tests, sometimes even testing higher after remediation efforts. A fountain in one of the schools hallways tested at more than 15 ppb in February. After it was repaired, the fixtures lead levels were eight times higher. The district repaired it again and resampled it three more times, finding no more traces of lead, records show. Six kitchen sinks in the school also failed initial tests in 2023. In October, some had handwritten signs above them warning: Do not use. DiFlorio said hes unsure why lead levels vary so much. At Delaware, he suggested that the water was not prepared properly before the test. Maybe the outrageously high levels were a one-time thing. Maybe not. It is unclear whether students had been drinking water with high levels of lead in between tests or how long the fixtures tested so high. Still, he said he was not concerned about the schools water. I wouldnt have a problem drinking it, DiFlorio said. I wouldnt have a problem with my children drinking it. What could Syracuse do? DiFlorio said the district does not investigate the source of the lead problem in each fountain that tests high. Even advocates say that would be too much trouble. The solution is simpler, they say. In Michigan, where a crisis in Flint affected thousands of children at school and at home, a state law now requires schools and child care centers to install lead-reducing filters in fixtures used for drinking. Central filling stations cost about $3,000 each, plus the minor cost of replacing filters each year. Experts recommend one for every 100 students. Its the kind of filling station available in Syracuse City Hall and familiar to anyone who visits an airport or gym. Especially in schools, the presence of lead can be unpredictable, said Erik Olson, a health advocate for the NRDC in Washington. Sometimes the water isnt used for long periods of time, such as during summer or winter break, which causes lead to build up. Adding filters to every fixture is cost-effective and ensures that the lead cant seep through unexpectedly, he said. Today you can test and find no problem and tomorrow, you can test and find a real problem, Olson said. If you install filters, you know youve taken care of the problem, and its cheaper than testing and testing and testing and then ripping out plumbing. There is federal and state money already available for improvements to drinking water. The federal infrastructure bill has a small budget set aside for schools, Olson said. The city of Syracuse is using a combination of state and federal money to replace 3,000 lead service pipes into homes. That is expected to cost $21 million and is just the start toward replacing at least 14,000 lead pipes. But DiFlorio said he has not proposed the filtration method for Syracuse schools and he believes it is not necessary. Syracuse schools have installed one filtered filling station in every building, DiFlorio said. He said they were added not because of detected lead but to encourage children to drink more water. At Delaware, that station is near the cafeteria and pool. We could talk to other people, he said. But if its below 5 parts per billion, just like in my home, we should be OK. Were doing (tests) every three years now instead of every five. What can parents, teachers do? Of the affected water fountains in Syracuse schools, 26 were at elementary or pre-k through eighth grade schools. Children under the age of six experience the worst effects of lead, experts say, but it can be detrimental to all children whose brains are still developing. Lead is a neurotoxin that damages the brain, causing learning difficulties and behavioral issues, Hobart said. Children absorb more lead from their intestines than adults do and more if it passes from their blood to their brains, he said. Hobart sees children in a 14-county area, including Syracuse, who test above 15 micrograms per deciliter in their blood. He consults on a few cases each week and about 15 times per year, sees children with levels higher than 45 mcg/dl. Sometimes, a child has higher than 100 mcg/dl. Public health assessment programs are aimed at catching lead paint exposure, not high-risk water exposure. The water is not always tested, so its possible that some children are exposed in that manner, he said. Lead poisoning disproportionately affects Black and Latino children, he said. At Delaware 35% of students are Black, 40% are Hispanic or Latino and 11% are multiracial, according to state data. Nearly every student is economically disadvantaged and 12% are homeless. In March 2024, Syracuse Superintendent Anthony Davis sent a letter to Delaware parents that said 26 sinks not used for drinking and 10 fountains had tested above 5 ppb and were repaired or replaced in the summer of 2023. The letter did not say how much lead was detected in the fountains, but directed parents to see the numbers on the districts website. The letter did not provide information about lead testing for children. A syracuse.com reporter read the numbers to Bolds, the mother whose son is in Room 108 at Delaware. In 2020, the fountain in that room had a good test. But three years later, tests showed 127 ppb. The fountain was repaired before her son started his first year of school this fall. But she said the test results raised a lot of questions about her sons future in city schools. Thats not good and thats very alarming for other children and their families, she said. Bolds wondered if the sinks were used to prepare food. She asked if she should donate water to school. She asked where children should go for a blood test. DiFlorio asked the county health department to offer a voluntary blood lead test to all children in preschool this year. That effort is underway. He said it is unrelated to recent high tests for lead in school or residential drinking water. Also unrelated to school fixtures, the county health department is handing out filtered Brita pitchers at preschools for families to use at home. That effort is in coordination with city officials to build confidence after the scare earlier this year in residential water test results. Experts encourage schools to ensure parents and school staff are well educated about the dangers of lead in water. Jennifer Hoponick Redmon, a water quality expert at the non-profit RTI International in North Carolina, runs programs where she helps teachers learn best practices for ensuring the water is safe. She and her team encourage staff to run their own tests so they can ensure the water was prepared properly and that the fixtures used the most often are investigated. They actually learn about the process themselves, and are more likely to also feel empowered and want to make changes when they see results, Redmon said. When class begins after winter break, the state health department suggests that teachers or students run sinks and fountains for a full minute before anyone takes a drink. Thats the same advice doctors are giving Syracuse residents who have lead pipes in their homes. The next time the school community will see how much lead is in the water fountains will be sometime between Jan. 1, 2026 and Dec. 31, 2028, according to the state health department. Search the records Search below to find test results for each sink and fountain in Syracuse City School buildings. The search includes results from the first and last test on each fixture tested in 2023 and 2024. Maggie Hicks covers education, including the Syracuse City School District and Syracuse University. She can be reached at mhicks@syracuse.com or follow her on X @maggie_hickss. Contact Michelle Breidenbach | mbreidenbach@syracuse.com | 315-470-3186. Utica, N.Y. An inmate who was badly injured last month at a Central New York state prison has died, his family said. The inmate, Edward Sholtz, 22, died Sunday at Wynn Hospital in Utica, according to his uncle, Timothy Sholtz. Sholtz was taken to the hospital on Dec. 17 from Mid-State Correctional Facility in Oneida County, state prison officials previously said. A doctor said on Dec. 20 that Sholtz was brain dead, family members previously said. The corrections departments Office of Special Investigations has been investigating what happened, according to department spokesperson Thomas Mailey. He said last week that there was no sign of staff misconduct or other foul play. The state Attorney Generals Office will likely now begin a preliminary assessment of Sholtzs death. The office has special powers under state law to investigate any deaths that result from an action, or inaction, of law enforcement officers, including corrections officers. Sholtz lived in a single cell, according to his aunt, Stacey Young, who believes he didnt attempt to kill himself. Young said she didnt think Sholtz was injured by another inmate since he had his cell to himself. Sholtz was sentenced in 2021 to 12 years in prison after accepting a plea deal from a judge. He admitted to attempting to rape a 37-year-old woman jogging on the Onondaga Creekwalk in Syracuse and then attacking a 71-year-old man who stopped him. An appellate court in Rochester upheld Sholtzs conviction last year. The states highest court, the Court of Appeals, declined last summer to take the case. Mid-State is one of two state prisons in Oneida County facing increased scrutiny. Dozens of Mid-State corrections officers brutally jumped on, kicked and sodomized inmates in 2016. A judge ruled last month that the state owes monetary damages to the inmates. Many of the officers still work at the prison. Across the street at Marcy Correctional Facility, several corrections officers beat inmate Robert L. Brooks last month on an exam table in the prison infirmary. Brooks later died at Wynn Hospital and a special prosecutor is investigating. Staff writer Jon Moss covers breaking news, crime and public safety. He can be reached at jmoss@syracuse.com or @mossjon7. Schools in New York state are required to test the water in every fountain and sink for lead every three years. In 2023 and 2024 tests, lead levels exceeded the states safety limit in fixtures at nearly every Syracuse school, records show. Across 33 buildings, water in 138 sinks and 36 water fountains tested too high for lead. The district has managed to bring the lead levels down to a safe amount in every building. Staff replaced different parts of fixtures or installed brand new ones. In some cases, they added a filter. Experts say there is a better way to keep kids safe: Install one centralized filtered water fountain for every 100 students. Search test results in every building. The data comes from the Syracuse School Districts website. We included the initial test result for each fixture and the final test result after the district fixed the fountain or sink and ran another test. Maggie Hicks covers education, including the Syracuse City School District and Syracuse University. She can be reached at mhicks@syracuse.com or follow her on X @maggie_hickss. Contact Michelle Breidenbach | mbreidenbach@syracuse.com | 315-470-3186. Congress on Monday certified Republican Donald Trump as the winner of the 2024 presidential election. The state-by-state counting of the Electoral College ballots went off without a hitch, as it largely had for 200 years with one shameful exception four years ago. You remember Jan. 6, 2021. Trump, falsely claiming he won the 2020 election, summoned thousands of supporters to the U.S. Capitol with the intention to prevent the certification of the rightful winner, Joe Biden, as president. The swing state elections were not particularly close and Biden routed Trump in the popular vote, earning 7 million more votes than Trump. Yet, the mob stormed the Capitol. Rioters assaulted police officers with homemade weapons, flagpoles and chemical irritants. Chants of Hang Mike Pence rang out as it became clear the vice president would not (and indeed could not) change the outcome in Trumps favor. Pence, members of Congress and their staffs fled the House chamber for their lives. During the riot, Trump continued to call members of Congress to get them to cancel the certification. At 3:30 a.m., in a truly unifying moment, a solemn Congress returned and certified the election over the objections of 147 Republican dissenters. More than 150 police officers were injured in the melee. The deaths of seven people, police officers and protesters, are tied to that day. In the four years since, more than 1,500 people have been prosecuted for their roles in the storming of the Capitol. Principled Republicans who voted to impeach Trump including Central New Yorks own John Katko quit Congress or were drummed out by pro-Trump voters. Trump and his loyalists in the GOP have spent the past four years variously recasting the events of Jan. 6, 2021, as a patriotic act of protest, a tourist expedition and a day of love. Low-information Trump supporters continue to claim he won the election. These are lies, pure and simple. This laundering of Jan. 6 will become even more disgraceful if Trump follows through on another promise: to grant clemency to the insurrectionists, whom he calls hostages. Their convictions may be erased but the stain of what they did that day will remain. And as much as Trump would like Jan. 6, 2021, to disappear down George Orwells memory hole, it will be remembered forever as a catastrophe for democracy, the rule of law and the constitutional order. About Syracuse.com editorials Editorials represent the collective opinion of the Advance Media New York editorial board. Our opinions are independent of news coverage. Read our mission statement. Members of the editorial board are Tim Kennedy, Trish LaMonte and Marie Morelli. To respond to this editorial: Submit a letter or commentary to letters@syracuse.com. Read our submission guidelines. If you have questions about the Opinions & Editorials section, contact Marie Morelli, editorial/opinion lead, at mmorelli@syracuse.com TOKYO, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Two people died and three others went missing after a fishing boat capsized off Ibaraki Prefecture in eastern Japan early Monday, local media reported. The fishing boat with 20 people aboard capsized at around 2:05 a.m. local time off a port in Kashima in Ibaraki Prefecture, northeast of Tokyo, Kyodo News reported, citing local authorities. Fifteen people were rescued, and bodies of two men in their 50s and 60s were recovered, who were confirmed dead later, the report said. The Japan Coast Guard believes that the boat may have capsized because too many fish got caught in the net, causing it to lose balance. The coast guard and others are continuing their search for the missing. omicron Newbie Join Date: Jul 2024 Location: Bangalore Posts: 11 Thanked: 112 Times Re: My Harrier saga Enter the Harrier While on our visit to check out the Curvv, my daughter had fallen in love with the Harrier and kept bringing it up whenever we discussed this. After my Safari experience, I was quite reluctant. Harrier was 80cm longer than Tiago and some 60 cm wider. My wife was fan of the Curvv too, but we had just eliminated the Curvv. But I just thought to humour my daughter and take a look at it. I went to Kropex Motors near Ecity (since it was close to my office) to check it out and it was quite impressive. It had a large boot where I could keep the dog and luggage. It had great rear seating space. It ticked all boxes, except the budget. I slowly started liking it. Tata has in the meantime started offering discounts which made it more interesting. For just an additional Rs. 5L, I could get a much better vehicle than Curvv. They offered to get the car to my office the next day for the test drive, but called up and said that the automatic variant had gone to another showroom and it wasnt available. In the meanwhile, I had spoken to Key Motors and Prerana (BTM Layout), but though Key Motors was close by, Prerana was the quickest off the blocks and booked the test drive for Saturday morning (just a couple of days later). My wife and I drove to the show-room, and we got the test drive. I had asked for a clued-in SA and they put me with one who knew the car well. I had also asked that I wanted to check the car parking in our apartment basement and he agreed. With his help and the 360 degree camera, I was able to park. Not easily, but able to. On the way back, it started raining heavily and the ORR became jammed. So, I got to experience the car in bumper to bumper traffic. And it felt really good. I felt I could get used to this. The blindspot indicators on the ORVMs were amazing. And then the SA started the ventilated seat and I felt like it was heaven. What happened to the XUV ? Did I mention the regret at not taking the test drive when I first visited the PPS Mahindra showroom ? Well, it never came to be. At first, they kept calling me and asking me to take the TD. I had some official travel that was happening and I couldnt. Later when I had narrowed my Tata selection to Harrier, I called them again. They promised - three times - that they would have the TD, but each of the times, they said that they only had the manual version and the automatic was in another showroom. And twice, the reason was that the person I called was ill in hospital and I had to check with someone else. Due to the distinct lack of interest and what with my talent of making them admit themselves in hospital, I also lost interest in them in return. Finalising the variant and the dealer For my previous cars, I had simply gone for the highest variant. But here, the top end - Fearless+DT (AT) (the nonDark edition) - was coming to 32.2L on-road, whereas Adventure+A (AT) was coming to 29.3L on road. So, by sacrificing somethings, I could get a decent car which was only some 5L more than the Curvv (24.8L on road). That was much more palatable. The Harrier doesnt come in too many colours. We loved the light grey but alas, the higher variants only had the dark pebble grey. We settled for it. Kropex offered 28.6L (mostly the insurance) and a very good deal for my old car. But they didnt go down further, and they didn't put me in touch their lead or manager. Prerana was quite aggressive with their quote. They initially offered around 28.5L (mostly the insurance) and then dropped it even further. But they didnt offer as well for the old car. I liked Prerana because they were hungry for the sale and the SA introduced to the Lead and Manager which helped in getting the discounts. Key Motors gave me a quote which wasnt much discounted. I told them I was getting much better quote elsewhere and they were like "you show me the quote from the other dealer and where you got it, otherwise we cant match". So, I walked. By this time, it was nearing end of October and the sales guys from both dealers were pushing to book since the discounts were valid only till end of the month. Prerana was willing to give me a free side-step too. I booked the car that was already in their stockyard in Nelamangala (manufactured in July). PDI Problems The first thing I wanted was the third party PDI. I know my competencies and intricacies of the car issues isnt one of them. Both the dealers said no. I called up Tata Motors and they also said no. I was like, whats wrong with your cars that you dont want an expert to look at it before buying ? Would you do it for the car I want to exchange with ? I had some visa appointment at around this time, and that was the top priority. So, end of October came and went. I wasnt in a hurry and took my time. I restarted the thread and approached both. Tata had extended the discounted pricing. Kropex stuck to their stand of no third-party PDI and that's it. Prerana was more reasonable - they understood that I could bring my cousin for PDI and there was nothing they could do about it as long as no tools were used - use of tools (probably the OBD scanner) would apparently void warranty. I was co-ordinating with Zekardo and those guys said if they cant use the tools, they cant conduct the PDI. I tried to compromise asking if Prerana would use the Tatas tools and they said no. I then found CarX which is run by a detailer on Google. The guy seemed quite reasonable and we setup PDI with Prerana. Now the Prerana guys said that we need to visit the showroom in Yelahanka. I was really upset and wanted to know why the car is in Yelahanka if the showroom Im dealing with is in BTM Layout and the stockyard is in Nelamangala. The SA was giving some silly reasons that made no sense at all. I called up the PDI fellow (I really forgot his name) and informed him that something is fishy. On the day of the PDI, the sales lead called me and told me that once the car booking at expired, the car was moved to the showroom in Yelahanka as a display vehicle and that it was in good shape. On the appointed day, I went to the Yelahanka showroom and met up with the CarX fellow. And we waited and waited for the BTML layout sales rep to show up. It took two hours for him to come. The CarX fellow did a thorough PDI and found some minor issues that the dealer said theyd fix before delivery. The car was in very good condition. I then paid the rest of the amount. I chose to not buy insurance from them, and got the insurance for 57K instead of 71K that the dealer quoted (the list price for 130K!). The dealer also said that the free accessory wasnt there, so I went with no accessory option. I contacted Cars24 to evaluate my old car, and they found issues that I really didnt think were issues. They first offered Rs. 4.1L and then reduced it to Rs. 4L. The dealers quote + exchange discount was coming to the same amount, so I decided to sell the car to the dealer. Itd also allow me to retain the car till the new car was ready and then drop off while taking delivery of the new one. Two days later, Cars24 came back with a quote for Rs. 4.2L but by that time they had lost credibility and I didnt want to deal with them. Two take-aways: My Tiago had some minor dents and scratches. I think if I had done a bit of denting and painting, I'd have gotten a far better quote. For Cars24, reject their first offer and their second offer too. They will come back with better quote. You play with the time. JERUSALEM, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Three rockets were fired from the Gaza Strip into southern Israel on Monday, with one striking a home in the city of Sderot, Israeli sources said. The Israeli military said in a statement that the rockets were launched from northern Gaza. One of the rockets was intercepted by the Israeli Air Force, another landed in Sderot, and the third fell in a nearby open area. No injuries were reported, but the Sderot municipality confirmed that one rocket hit the backyard of a residential home. Photos circulating on social media showed minor damage at the site. Rocket fire from Gaza has intensified recently, as the Israeli military has ramped up airstrikes and ground raids on the enclave amid revived negotiations in Qatar's Doha aimed at halting a 15-month conflict between Israel and Hamas. According to the latest tally by health authorities in Gaza, Israeli strikes have killed 45,854 Palestinians and injured 109,139 others in the enclave. In context: In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, the world of work has undergone a seismic shift, with remote work becoming a central point of contention between employers and employees. As we enter 2025, a new trend is emerging: workers are increasingly willing to accept lower salaries in exchange for the privilege of working from home, while some companies are reversing this strategy to entice employees back to the office. The desire for remote work has become so strong that many job seekers are willing to make significant financial sacrifices. Some candidates are accepting 5% to 15% less pay for the opportunity to work from home, Theresa L. Fesinstine, founder of human resources advisory peoplepower.ai, told Fortune. "There's this unspoken exchange rate between flexibility and comp, and for some candidates, it's worth a significant trade-off," said Fesinstine. This is especially true "for those who value work-life balance or are saving on commute costs." However, this shift is not without its critics. Sara Kobilka, a communications and education consultant, warned that paying remote workers less is a "dangerous trend." While she herself took a lower-paying job to escape a toxic work environment, Kobilka argued that this should not translate into "unilaterally paying remote employees less." Employers are finding themselves in a delicate balancing act. Almost half of managers anticipate challenges in meeting candidates' compensation expectations, according to Robert Half's 2025 US Hiring Outlook. In response, many are offering remote or hybrid work options as a negotiating tool to bridge the gap between salary expectations and actual offers. Michael Steinitz, senior executive director of professional talent solutions at Robert Half, noted that employers who aren't providing remote work accommodations may need to find other ways to incentivize in-office work, such as negotiating additional paid time off. Interestingly, the same Robert Half research reveals that 76% of job candidates are willing to work fully in-office in exchange for a higher salary, with the average raise requested being about 23%. Despite the apparent willingness of some workers to accept lower pay for remote work, experts warn of potential consequences. Amy Spurling, founder and CEO of employee benefits reimbursement platform Compt, predicted a second Great Resignation in 2025. She cautioned that companies attempting to "lowball" remote workers may face a harsh reality as employees seek better opportunities. This prediction is supported by a 2024 PwC report, which forecasts a 28% increase in the number of people planning to change jobs, compared to the 19% of people who changed jobs during the Great Resignation of 2022. As the debate over remote work and compensation continues, it's clear that both employers and employees are navigating uncharted territory. Fesinstine argued that remote work "isn't a perk anymore, but rather a standard operating model." The coming years will likely see continued negotiation and adjustment as companies strive to balance their operational needs with employee preferences. "Even in a softening market, candidates are maintaining high expectations around salary and flexibility," Steinitz said. "Employers need to act quickly with competitive, well-rounded offers, and be prepared to negotiate especially when seeking top-tier talent with specialized skills." Masthead: BRUNO CERVERA In a nutshell: Despite being one of the most popular tools for GPU tuning on the market if not the most popular MSI Afterburner sees relatively few stable updates. However, the program's developer has confirmed that a major update is on the horizon. The update will coincide with the release of new GeForce cards, which are set to introduce an additional feature for fan control. We are hours away from Nvidia's official presentation at CES 2025, where the company is expected to unveil the next generation of its premium gaming GPUs. The release of the GeForce RTX 5000 series is all but confirmed, and MSI Afterburner developer Alexey "Unwinder" Nicolaychuk has provided another hint about what these new cards will bring to the gaming hardware market. Nicolaychuk revealed that a new version of MSI Afterburner is in the works and will launch close to the RTX 5080 series' sales debut. The update will include additional "strings," as the Blackwell GPU cards introduce three independent fan controllers an upgrade from the two controllers found in previous generations like the RTX 3000 and RTX 4000 series. As a result, MSI Afterburner will incorporate a new button for asynchronous fan speed control for the third fan. If leaks and expectations hold true, Nvidia's CEO Jensen Huang will unveil the GeForce RTX 5080 during his Tuesday presentation, with sales expected to begin on January 21. One leaked product, the MSI RTX 5080 Gaming Trio, reportedly features three fans perfectly aligning with the three fan controllers supported by the new cards. Nicolaychuk, who develops MSI Afterburner in close collaboration with the Taiwanese company, likely has early insights into these upcoming GPUs. His comments further reinforce the buzz surrounding the RTX 5000 series and the anticipated technological advancements it will bring. The latest stable version of MSI Afterburner (4.6.5) was released in April 2023, while the most recent beta version (4.6.6 Beta 3) dates back to March 2024. As many enthusiast gamers and content creators are well aware, this versatile tool offers an array of essential features, including GPU overclocking, performance monitoring, benchmarking in-game graphics, capturing screenshots, and more. MSI Afterburner supports a wide range of GPUs from Nvidia, AMD, and Intel, including integrated graphics. It even allows users to record video clips of their gaming sessions. However, based on my personal tests, it ranked third in terms of performance impact and overall video quality compared to Nvidia ShadowPlay and OBS Studio. That said, I rely on MSI Afterburner constantly especially when battling through the toughest challenges in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree to monitor how my hardware is holding up. Despite its immense popularity, MSI Afterburner faced an uncertain future in 2023 due to sanctions against Vladimir Putin's Russia. Nicolaychuk revealed that MSI hadn't paid him in over a year, leaving him unwilling to maintain the project without compensation. Fortunately, the issue was eventually resolved, allowing development to continue as usual. Facepalm: Despite being the world's second-largest search engine, Bing continues to hold a minuscule market share compared to Google. Microsoft is clearly dissatisfied with this disparity and is making every effort to drive even a modest increase in user traffic, even if it borders on being unethical. Microsoft recently introduced another tactic in its ongoing efforts to encourage users to choose Bing over Google. The Redmond-based corporation seems acutely aware that many users search for "Google" on Bing, and it has devised a strategy to capitalize on this behavior, setting up what can only be described as a clever "trap" for this specific query. As first reported by Windows Latest, users who search for "Google" on Bing without being signed into a Microsoft account encounter a uniquely designed page. This page features a central search box styled to resemble a Google Doodle, while standard Bing search results appear below. Interestingly, the design conceals the traditional Bing search box at the top of the page, steering users toward the central box to process their queries through Bing's servers. The imitation Google page appears across Edge, Chrome, and Firefox browsers, disappearing only when the user logs into their Microsoft account. Microsoft has employed various tactics to force users into adopting Bing and Edge in the past, but resorting to imitating Google's homepage marks a new low for the Redmond company. Even the recently released official Bing app has been observed engaging in questionable, malware-like behavior on users' PCs to further advance Microsoft's business agenda. The real issue lies in Microsoft's monopolistic approach to technology though it's worth noting that many other companies employ similar strategies to maximize profits and minimize expenses. Google, for instance, which was recently declared a monopoly in the search engine market by US authorities, is also notorious for leveraging its dominant position to stifle competition. Google often displays notifications on its websites, encouraging users to download and use the Chrome browser instead of Edge or Firefox. However, even in light of the US Department of Justice's recent ruling, Google's tactics appear significantly less aggressive compared to Microsoft's relentless push to promote Bing. Taiwan had an average of 2.4 million attacks per day during 2024, which more than doubled compared to 2023. The cyber threats for most of the attacks were contributed by Chinese forces according to National Security Bureau reports, a bad omen at a time of growing military and political pressure from Beijing. The attacks have caused grave security concerns for the operations of the Taiwanese government and its core infrastructure. Cyber Forces Target Taiwan's Government Service Network The Government Service Network (GSN) of Taiwan was the first to be targeted by cyber forces. These attacks have crippled important services and raised alarms about Taiwan's vulnerability in the digital age. According to Reuters, telecommunications, transportation, and defense sectors were among the top targets, showing the broad scope of China's cyber ambitions. Furthermore, the government's digital resilience is being put to the test as these aggressive actions continue to escalate. "The growing numbers of attacks pinpoint the increasingly severe nature of China's hacking activities," the report wrote. Read More: US Warns Citizens to Use Encrypted Messaging Apps Amid Cyberattack on Telecom Giants China's Grey-Zone Tactics: Cyberwarfare and Military Pressure Taiwan has been accusing China of using "grey-zone harassment," a method combining military activities with cyberattacks that aim to destabilize Taiwan's sovereignty. Most of the cyberattacks, specifically Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS), are launched at times when China holds military exercises close to the island. This enhances both the physical and digital pressure strategies. Experts think that it aims to break up the functions of Taiwan's government and make the people there feel threatened. Whether it's in the land, air, or by digital means, it seems that China is not yet satisfied with giving the smaller country a chance to recuperate its resources. Complicated Cyber Operations and Military Exercises According to the report, hackers from China attacked Taiwan's strategic infrastructure using some of the most advanced techniques including advanced persistent threats and backdoor software. They targeted highways, ports, and communication networks, among others. The attack would not only create a disruption to the daily lives of people in Taiwan but would also give the Chinese strategic superiority in political, military, technological, and economic fields. In addition to the DDoS attacks, China also targeted Taiwanese civil servants' emails, employing social engineering tactics to steal sensitive information. This only goes to show that China is relentless in forcing Taiwan to submit to its sovereignty claims. China's Denial and Global Repercussions China has always denied its involvement in cyberattacks, even when the evidence continues to pile up. It's a consistent argument that aligns with China's repeated denial of any international hacking involvement, despite mounting accusations worldwide. In fact, the U.S. Treasury Department announced last week that Chinese hackers stole sensitive documents, thus adding to accusations that China's cyber forces are actively engaging in espionage and digital warfare. According to the Taiwanese government's report, these cyberattacks are not one-off incidents but rather part of a larger coordinated strategy to undermine Taiwan and its international position. Continued harassment through cyberattacks is considered an essential element of China's long-term goal of reunification under its rule. How Taiwan Combats China's Aggressive Attacks As Taiwan faces these cyber threats, it is intensifying efforts to strengthen its digital defenses. The National Security Bureau has stressed the importance of monitoring and adopting more advanced cybersecurity measures. Right now, Taiwan's government is working closely with international allies to strengthen its digital infrastructure and mitigate the impact of the cyberattacks. Taiwan continues to stand firm against the massive pressure put upon the country regarding China's aim to win over the island's sovereignty. Beijing will continue bullying the smaller nation, but Taiwan's persistence won't be easy for the sleeping giant to handle either way. In the past few years, the Philippines' demand for convenient loans has boomed. In today's society, people expect to find quick fixes for sudden expenses. Traditional banks seldom can offer the prompt financial aid required. So, digital lending platforms are emerging as disruptors.In this regard, Cash-Express excels.It adopts advanced technology to expedite loan applications and approvals, eliminates the bureaucratic process generally associated with short term loans. Disrupting lending? The technology behind online loans in the Philippines and how Cash-Express is using advanced techniques to revolutionize the business of borrowing, offering cash-express solutions to meet urgent financial needs. The Rise of Digital Lending Technology in the Philippines Digital lenders change the way lenders lend and operate. Now, as long as you have a phone or computer, your borrower can apply for a loan. You don't have to go to the bank, where you encounter all sorts of strange procedures such as this. The way reasoning changes with technology. Lending platforms are structured on top of artificial intelligence, machine learning, blockchain and secure payment systems. They work toward creating a loan process that is fast, secure, and entirely open to both parties concerned. Lenders can evaluate risk and creditworthiness much more quickly now with these technologies, which also cut out a lot of documentation. The result has been a shorter interval for the whole application-to-approval process. Naturally, users now find it more convenient and pleasant. Artificial Intelligences Role in Digital Lending Online loan is supported by artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the main technologies behind. By taking in huge amounts of data, AI evaluates the likelihood of repayment and the credit worthiness of borrowers. This cuts the human error which plagued traditional evidence in a typical loan approval process. Lenders can lend faster and more efficiently as a result. For example, Cash-Express uses algorithms powered by AI to process loan applications in real time. The platform draws conclusions from many data points. Within minutes it can decide whether or not to lend money with great accuracy. This enables borrowers to receive quick financial aid whatever the reason may be. Blockchain technology for enhanced security and transparency Digital lending platforms are worried about security. They handle sensitive financial data, and that's a huge problem if the data were to leak or get lost in transit (though more on this later). This is where blockchain technology comes into play. Blockchain's decentralized nature means that transactions are secure, transparent and non-modifiable, removing the need for a middleman and thus reducing fraud risk as well as protecting personal details. Cash-Express built blockchain technology into its platform to safeguard transactions; data safety is the top priority. Borrowers can be confident that their data is safe since encryption technology is in use. They store data on a secure, unchangeable ledger. Such added protection for the user is accompanied by trust in payments. Cloud Computing Cloud computing powers the scalability of digital lending platforms. Cloud-based systems let platforms like Cash-Express process thousands of loan applications at once. They do this without costly, on-premises hardware. This tech lets the platform grow its services for more users, without losing performance. Additionally, cloud computing makes it easier for users to access loan services anytime and anywhere. You can apply for a loan from anywhere with internet access. Use your mobile device or computer. The Power of Data Analytics in Loan Decisions Lenders no longer rely only on credit scores and long forms to approve loans. Data analytics have changed the loan approval process. They let platforms check many data points beyond a borrower's credit history. Cash-Express uses data analytics to check borrowers and predict repayment. The platform can analyze spending, income, and habits. It can then make better lending decisions. This lowers lenders' risk and gives borrowers tailored loan options. Seamless integration of payment gateways for faster disbursements A key advantage of online lenders is their ability to disburse funds without delay. Cash-Express uses a payment gateway to transfer loan funds to the borrower's bank account in real time, usually within 24 hours. This removes the delays of traditional bank processes. It provides fast cash access when it is needed most. Why Cash-Express Is the Best Tech-Driven Lending Platform Cash-Express is setting the standard in Philippine digital lending. Its success comes from a seamless integration of various technologies. Heres why Cash-Express is the preferred choice for tech-savvy borrowers: AI-powered Loan Approval: Cash-Express uses AI for instant loan decisions. This removes the need for manual reviews and speeds up disbursement. Cash-Express uses AI for instant loan decisions. This removes the need for manual reviews and speeds up disbursement. Blockchain-backed Security: The platform uses blockchain to secure and verify all transactions. This gives borrowers peace of mind. The platform uses blockchain to secure and verify all transactions. This gives borrowers peace of mind. Cloud Infrastructure: Cash-Express's cloud platform can scale quickly. It can process thousands of applications at once without losing performance. Cash-Express's cloud platform can scale quickly. It can process thousands of applications at once without losing performance. Data-Driven Decision Making: Cash-Express uses advanced data analytics. It provides personalized loan options that match each borrower's financial profile. Cash-Express uses advanced data analytics. It provides personalized loan options that match each borrower's financial profile. Real-Time Payments: Cash-Express uses payment gateways to send funds directly and quickly to the borrower's bank. How to Register for a Loan with Cash Express Applying for a loan with Cash-Express is easy and tech-driven. Heres a step-by-step guide: Go to the Cash-Express website. Click "Apply for a Loan." Register : Fill out the online registration form with your personal and financial details. : Fill out the online registration form with your personal and financial details. Upload Documents: Use the platform's secure portal to upload scanned IDs, proof of income, and other documents. Use the platform's secure portal to upload scanned IDs, proof of income, and other documents. Approval Process : Your application will be reviewed using advanced AI and data analytics to ensure a fast and accurate decision. : Your application will be reviewed using advanced AI and data analytics to ensure a fast and accurate decision. Receive Funds: Once approved, the loan will be sent to your bank account via payment gateways. Conclusion Technology is driving the future of lending. Cash-Express is at the forefront of this revolution. Cash-Express is using AI, blockchain, cloud computing, and data analytics. This will speed up, secure, and make the loan process more accessible than ever. Cash-Express uses advanced technology to provide a reliable service. Whether you need a short-term loan or a long-term solution, we are seamless and transparent. As digital lending grows in the Philippines, platforms like Cash-Express show that tech can improve financial services. It can make them faster, more accessible, and more secure. It can also enhance their appeal to customers. General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee Xi Jinping, also Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, addresses the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) on Jan. 6, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Xueren) BEIJING, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, on Monday called for resolutely winning the tough, protracted and all-around battle against corruption. Xi, also Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, emphasized rigorous Party self-governance with the spirit of reform when addressing the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI), which opened Monday in Beijing. Xi said unprecedented efforts have been made to advance full and rigorous Party self-governance and the fight against corruption since the beginning of the new era, yielding widely recognized results. He stressed the need to take resolute and sustained actions to fight corruption. "Corruption is the greatest threat to the Party, and combating it represents the most thorough kind of self-reform," Xi said. Confronted with significant challenges in the fight against corruption, the Party has remained committed to investigating and addressing all corruption cases to maintain the integrity of officials, Xi said. But he also noted that the fight against corruption remains "a grave and complex challenge," calling for strengthening resolve and confidence in this regard. Xi emphasized the importance of making greater progress in Party self-governance to ensure the Party remains the strong leadership core in building socialism with Chinese characteristics and to guarantee the steady advancement of Chinese modernization. It is imperative to conduct concrete, targeted and regular political oversight, and maintain a high degree of unity with the CPC Central Committee in both words and actions, Xi said. Noting that tightening Party discipline is an ongoing task, Xi called for establishing a regular and long-term mechanism for discipline education. It is essential to enforce strict management and supervision of officials, and encourage them to take actions in reform and innovation while abiding by rules and discipline, Xi stressed. It is vital to maintain a tough stance against corruption, focusing on key issues, sectors and targets, Xi said, calling for efforts to address both bribe-taking and bribe-giving and eliminate systemic corruption risks. He also underscored the implementation of long-term mechanisms to address pointless formalities and reduce burdens at the primary level. Xi stressed that disciplinary inspection and supervision authorities are crucial in advancing the Party's self-reform, calling for more efforts to ensure their work is carried out in a standardized, law-based and professional manner. Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi and Ding Xuexiang, all members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, attended the meeting. Li Xi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and secretary of the CCDI, presided over the meeting. He said Xi's speech laid out a strategic plan for further exercising full and rigorous Party self-governance, urging unwavering efforts to advance the fight against corruption. General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee Xi Jinping, also Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, addresses the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) on Jan. 6, 2025. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi) General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee Xi Jinping, also Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, addresses the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) on Jan. 6, 2025. Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang and Li Xi attended the session. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei) Li Xi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and secretary of the CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI), delivers a work report on behalf of the CCDI Standing Committee during the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC CCDI in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 6, 2025. The fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC CCDI opened on Monday. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei) Divisive study finds link between fluoride and childhood IQ loss Washington, Jan 6 (AFP) Jan 06, 2025 A controversial new study out Monday in a US medical journal could reignite debate over fluoride's safety in water, linking higher exposure levels to lower IQ in children. Published in the prestigious Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Pediatrics, it has sparked pushback from some scientists who criticize the study's methods, defend the mineral's proven dental benefits, and warn the findings may not directly apply to typical US water fluoridation levels. Its release comes as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office. His health secretary nominee, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is a vocal critic of fluoridated water, which currently serves over 200 million Americans, or nearly two-thirds of the population. Researchers from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) reviewed 74 studies on fluoride exposure and children's IQ conducted in 10 countries including Canada, China, and India. The same scientists helped formulate an official government recommendation in August that there is "moderate confidence" that higher levels of fluoride are linked to lower IQ scores. Now, the team led by Kyla Taylor told AFP the new analysis found a "statistically significant association" between fluoride exposure and reduced IQ scores. Specifically, the study estimates that for every 1 milligram per liter increase in urinary fluoride -- a marker of overall exposure -- children's IQ drops by 1.63 points. - Study limitations- Fluoride's neurotoxicity at high doses is well known, but the controversy lies in the study's suggestion that exposure below 1.5 milligrams per liter -- currently the World Health Organization's safety limit -- may also affect children's IQ. Crucially, the paper does not clarify how much lower than 1.5 mg/L could be dangerous, leaving questions about whether the US guideline of 0.7 mg/L needs adjustment. The authors acknowledged that "there were not enough data to determine if 0.7 mg/L of fluoride exposure in drinking water affected children's IQ." Steven Levy, a member of the national fluoride committee for the American Dental Association, raised significant concerns about the study's methodology. He pointed out that 52 of the 74 studies reviewed were rated "low quality" by the authors themselves but were still included in the analysis. "Almost all of the studies have been done in other settings where there are other contaminants, other things we call confounding factors," he told AFP, citing coal pollution in China as an example. Levy also questioned the study's use of single-point urine samples instead of 24-hour collections, which provide greater accuracy, as well as the challenges in reliably assessing young children's IQ. With so many uncertainties, Levy argued in an editorial accompanying the study that current policies "should not be affected by the study findings." The journal also published an editorial commending the study for its methodological rigor. - Balancing gains against risks - On the other side of the debate, the benefits of water fluoridation are well documented. Introduced in the United States in 1945, it quickly reduced cavities in children and tooth loss in adults, earning recognition from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as one of the greatest public health achievements of the 20th century. Fluoride, which also occurs naturally in varying levels, helps restore minerals lost to acid breakdown in teeth, reduces acid production by cavity-causing bacteria, and makes it harder for these bacteria to stick to the teeth. However, with fluoride toothpastes widely available since the 1960s, some research suggests diminishing returns. Proponents argue fluoridation reduces socioeconomic disparities in dental care, while critics warn it may pose greater risks of neurological harm to vulnerable communities. "Evidence on the effects of adjusting levels of fluoride or interrupting community water fluoridation programs is critically needed, especially within the context of the US," Fernando Hugo, Chair of the NYU College of Dentistry, told AFP. DHAKA, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- A special tribunal in Bangladesh's capital, Dhaka, has ordered an arrest warrant for former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and 11 other people over incidents of enforced disappearances. The two-member International Crimes Tribunal, led by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Majumdar, issued the warrant on Monday in Dhaka. Hasina's former Defense Advisor, Major General (retired) Tarique Ahmed Siddique, and former Inspector General of Bangladesh Police, Benazir Ahmed, are among the other suspects. Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam told journalists that they have applied for arrest warrants for a total of 12 people in a case of enforced disappearances. "Among them, dismissed Major General Ziaul Ahsan has been ordered to be produced as he is behind the bar. Warrants have been issued for 11 more people," he said. According to the prosecutor, the next hearing in the case has been fixed for Feb. 12. Local media reported that Hasina fled to India on Aug. 5 in 2024 after the collapse of her government. Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs last month sent a diplomatic note to New Delhi to send back Hasina to Dhaka from India. Later, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that they had received the request for extradition of the ousted former Bangladeshi prime minister from Dhaka. Biden issues major coastal protection before Trump handover Washington, Jan 6 (AFP) Jan 06, 2025 US President Joe Biden on Monday banned offshore drilling across an immense area of coastal waters, weeks before Donald Trump takes office pledging to massively increase fossil fuel production. The ban encompasses the entire Atlantic coast and eastern Gulf of Mexico, as well as the Pacific coast off California, Oregon and Washington, and a section of the Bering Sea off Alaska. The White House said more than 625 million acres (253 million hectares) of waters would be protected. "As the climate crisis continues to threaten communities across the country and we are transitioning to a clean energy economy, now is the time to protect these coasts for our children and grandchildren," Biden said in a statement. "In balancing the many uses and benefits of America's ocean, it is clear to me that the relatively minimal fossil fuel potential in the areas I am withdrawing do not justify the environmental, public health, and economic risks that would come from new leasing and drilling," he added. Shortly after the announcement was made, Trump said in an interview with a conservative radio host: "It's ridiculous. I'll unban it immediately... I have the right to unban it immediately." But the ban does not have an end date and could be legally -- and politically -- tricky for Trump to overturn. Biden is taking the action under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act of 1953, which gives the federal government authority over the exploitation of offshore resources. The law however does not expressly provide for presidents to unilaterally reverse a drilling ban without going through Congress. - 'Epic ocean victory' - During his campaign, Trump pledged to "unleash" domestic fossil fuel production in a bid to lower gas costs, despite the country already seeing record high extraction rates. After US media reported that Biden would issue such a ban, Karoline Leavitt, Trump's incoming press secretary, called the move "a disgraceful decision designed to exact political revenge on the American people who gave President Trump a mandate to increase drilling and lower gas prices." Environmental pressure groups, on the other hand, welcomed the decision. "This is an epic ocean victory!" said Joseph Gordon, the climate and energy director for Oceana. "Our treasured coastal communities are now safeguarded for future generations," he said. John Calvelli, the executive vice president of public affairs at the Wildlife Conservation Society, also welcomed the move, calling it "great news" for ocean wildlife. "It is an important step by the United States to help achieve the global goal of protecting at least 30 percent of land and waters by 2030 to halt nature loss and climate change," he said in a statement. The move is the latest in a string of last-minute climate policy actions by the Biden administration ahead of Trump's return to the White House. In mid-December, the outgoing administration issued an ambitious new climate target under the landmark Paris accord, committing the United States to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 61-66 percent below 2005 levels by 2035, on the path to achieving net zero by 2050. Hazardous cargo ship represents 'no danger' to I. Coast, says port Abidjan, Jan 6 (AFP) Jan 06, 2025 Port officials in the Ivory Coast's largest city Abidjan on Monday insisted that a ship carrying 20,000 tonnes of potentially explosive ammonium nitrate moored in its outer harbour posed "no danger". Campaigners had expressed concern about the condition of the cargo, which has been refused entry in other ports and is now aboard the Barbados-flagged Zimrida. The ship "does not represent any danger for the port facilities, even less so for the population", the port authority said in a statement, adding that it had taken necessary precautions. The ship was "not suffering from any damage and meets all safety conditions, in line with international maritime rules", the authority added, following a meeting held with several ministries, the ship owner and the owner of the cargo. "There is therefore no specific danger in the cargo intended for the Ivorian loader being unloaded in Abidjan port before the ship returns to the sea." Close to 8,000 tonnes that will remain in the Ivory Coast are due to be unloaded, the statement said, without specifying when. The authority said that the cargo's owner had obtained all the necessary state documents to import its controversial cargo. Although normally used as an agricultural fertiliser, ammonium nitrate can also be used to make explosives. An explosion of ammonium nitrate in Beirut in 2020 killed more than 220 people, injured at least 6,500 and devastated swathes of the Lebanese capital. It is not the first time this particular cargo has raised concerns. - Disaster haunts Ivory Coast - Last August the Ruby, a Handymax bulk carrier, left Russia carrying 20,000 tonnes of the fertiliser. Having left the port of Kandalaksha on August 22, it ran into a storm in the Barents Sea and limped, damaged, into the Norwegian port of Tromso for inspection. But it was ordered to leave and proceed with the aid of a tug to another port for repairs. After being turned away by Lithuania -- which wanted it to unload its volatile cargo before docking -- it anchored off southeast England for several weeks. In early December, French ecologist group Robin des Bois (Robin Hood) and several British media reports said the cargo had been transferred to the Zimrida at the English port of Yarmouth. Once it leaves the Ivory Coast, the Zimrida is due to head to Angola and then Tanzania. Many in the Ivory Coast still remember the August 2006 Probo Koala disaster, when toxic residues on board the Panamanian-registered freighter arrived in Abidjan for treatment after the Dutch port of Amsterdam had refused to receive them. An Ivorian sub-contractor dumped the waste on the city's garbage sites and in at least 18 other locations. Ivorian judges say that more than 500 cubic metres (18,000 cubic feet) of spent caustic soda, oil residues and water killed 17 people and poisoned thousands more. Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim speaks at the launch of the Visit Malaysia 2026 Campaign in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Jan. 6, 2025. All government ministries have been directed to improve their performance in boosting the country's tourism, investment and economic matters, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said on Monday. (Xinhua/Cheng Yiheng) KUALA LUMPUR, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- All government ministries have been directed to improve their performance in boosting the country's tourism, investment and economic matters, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said on Monday. Anwar, who also serves as finance minister, highlighted that each of Malaysia's states possesses their own strengths to attract visitors and urged them to leverage these strengths, he said in his speech at the launch of the Visit Malaysia 2026 Campaign. "For this year, as we strive to make a success of the ASEAN chairmanship, we will ensure our programs equip all states, with no exceptions, to become tourism destinations this year and next year, in particular," he said. "I have asked all ministries to focus on ensuring Malaysia can enhance capabilities in the fields of tourism, investment and the economy. This is to ensure that no area or state is marginalized or left behind," he added. Anwar also emphasized that the comprehensive involvement of all parties would enable the nation to achieve the projected income of 147.1 billion ringgit (32.5 billion U.S. dollars), and the targeted tourist arrivals of 35.6 million through the campaign. Guests attend the launch of the Visit Malaysia 2026 Campaign in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Jan. 6, 2025. All government ministries have been directed to improve their performance in boosting the country's tourism, investment and economic matters, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said on Monday. (Xinhua/Cheng Yiheng) Guests watch a performance at the launch of the Visit Malaysia 2026 Campaign in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Jan. 6, 2025. All government ministries have been directed to improve their performance in boosting the country's tourism, investment and economic matters, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said on Monday. (Xinhua/Cheng Yiheng) Not your computer? Use a private browsing window to sign in. Learn more about using Guest mode When Jaguars copy nothing brand reboot hit late last year, one self-styled car enthusiast replied on X: What the actual hell is this? Jaguars response: The future. That remains to be seen. But the ad, unfamiliar and unsettling, does at least work as a portent of whats coming for the global vehicle industry. Jaguar, a storied but struggling British brand owned by Indias Tata Motors, shred its existing traditions with a 30-second video long on po-faced models but with no sign of an actual car. It all heralded a new direction high-end electric vehicles with a concept, the Type 00, revealed in Miami shortly thereafter. If the idea was to draw attention, albeit often apoplectic, it worked. Even Elon Musk reacted. Electric vehicles, particularly from China, have flooded the market. Credit: Marija Ercegovac Its a time for radical moves in the vehicle industry. Just before the Type 00 unveiling, news broke that both Stellantis NVs chief executive and Nissan Motors finance chief were abruptly departing. A few weeks before, Volkswagen had announced the seemingly unthinkable: closing plants in Germany (it later agreed with unions to keep them open but reduce capacity). A little earlier, Ford Motor touted what felt like its millionth pivot on EVs. Not to be outdone, General Motors ended last year with a trifecta: a $US5 billion ($8 billion) write-down in China, the sale of its stake in a US battery factory project, and the sudden closure of its in-house robotaxi arm, Cruise. Cost of cutting Re the debate about federal government support for private schools (Put away your gold-plated begging bowl, Letters, 6/1), there is likely to be a point where, if all financial support was withdrawn, as some correspondents have favoured, the fees of the elite schools could reach an unaffordable level for some families. Schooling those kids would thus become the responsibility of the state government, who would then be pressuring Canberra for more funding to educate these extra students. Graeme Daniels, Balwyn North Let market decide If private schools want to be independent and exclusive, perhaps they should go it alone without government funding. In true market-based ideology, if your business cant survive on its own, it shouldnt continue. And private schools are run as businesses. At the moment funding arrangements see state-run schools lag behind in facilities. Yet, private schools cry poor. If private schools are that short of funding, then perhaps they could do what sporting clubs do, and that is seek sponsorship. Schools could easily change the school badge on their uniforms to perhaps a logo from a betting company. Greg Tuck, Warragul No payment necessary Its difficult to muster up any sympathy for those parents complaining of rising private school fees. There is a simple answer. Not so surprisingly, many children have flourished under the public school system without their parents having to spend, what is for many, their annual salary on one child. Annie Wilson, Inverloch Admin bloat I read with interest about Catholic and independent schools wanting the payroll tax scrapped. Working in Catholic and independent schools from the 1970s to 2020 I have some observations. In the 1970s and 80s we had a principal and deputy. Today, most schools have a principal and, on average, three deputies. Why? Heads of departments once sent all their secretarial needs to the front office. Today every head of department has a secretary, or personal assistant, or shares one between two. Why? We have alumni offices and marketing departments as well as deans of senior and junior schools. I think many of these schools need to look at their staffing they are top-heavy in appointments who demand a top salary. A review to justify the positions is urgently needed. Christine Hammett, Richmond Wrong way on nudity Hiking in Wilsons Promontory National Park many years ago, we encountered a sign declaring that swimming nude was forbidden at the beaches, and I was struck by the absurdity there couldnt be anywhere more appropriate to go au naturel than in the midst of nature. Our attitude to public nudity is more than prudish (Were becoming a nation of prudes, our nude beaches shut by the nanny state, 5/1); its immature and imposes shame where there should be none. The main reason for inappropriate behaviour at optional-dress beaches is because we make nudity taboo. We have it the wrong way around beaches should be automatically optional dress, with fully clothed ones being the designated exceptions. Paul Spinks, South Geelong Fee-free failure Re (Caravan park fees soar as free sites snapped up, 6/1), we tried to book a Parks Victoria campsite this summer and spent a long time to finally find an available site at Eildon. Even though the park was fully booked we found that it was less than half-full for the duration of our stay. We guessed people were booking and then not turning up or cancelling their booking. What value is something that is free? (Answer: nothing.) So genuine campers turn to the private camping parks where the laws of supply and demand prevail. The article reported that the fee-free system was a success. I suggest not. Mark Weatherseed, Kew Seize the jet-skis Jet-skis and personal watercraft are subject to hoon legislation in Victoria. This enables the police to seize and impound a jet-ski if the rider engages in dangerous or anti-social behaviour. The police issued 300 infringement notices in 2024. However, it is hard to understand why the jet-skis of riders, recently illegally speeding near swimmers in off-limit areas, are not seized rather than the rider issued with an infringement notice. From the article in The Age (Jet-skis are still a danger at Melbournes beaches, 4/1) its clear that many riders have no respect for the safety requirements. The message would spread quickly if a few hoons lost their jet-skis. Carolyn Worth, Brighton East Sustainable funding As a retired GP, I believe the article What bulk-billing? The group missing out on cheaper GP visits (3/1) doesnt reflect the true picture of funding for general practice since Medicare started in 1984. In that 40-year timeframe, rebates have only been increased by 50 per cent of the index that measures average wage earnings and CPI. While the recent increase in funding of $3.5 billion is welcome, when you factor in the 40-year history of not properly indexing rebates or freezing rebates (as happened for several years recently), one can see why bulk-billing rates are falling. I hope current and future governments can work with GP groups to look at sustainable funding options for the long-term to maintain general practice as a viable profession and maintain access for all in the community. Gerard Connors, Hampton Make trams free I believe an examination of the proposed 50 cent tram fare (Greens pitch 50 fares to Prahran voters, 4/1) would reveal it will cost more to collect than it is worth. The cost of the electronic card system, service, replacement of ageing technology, printing, moving, selling, accounting for the card, would exceed 50. Simply make the trams free and eliminate all the expense of the collection infrastructure. Kent Hansen, St Kilda Enforce tram zones Anyone using a tram or living near a tram stop will be familiar with tram drivers frequent and desperate gonging of vehicles sailing past while passengers are exiting. Despite flashing tram lights and a traffic regulation prohibition, these inattentive or impatient car drivers put lives at serious risk. Warnings are plainly not working. Neither is education. The solution is obvious: a certain fine. If offending vehicles are automatically photographed and issued with an infringement notice (like speed cameras), the practice will soon stop or be much reduced. Lives will be saved. Mark Dohrmann, Parkville The real GOAT As much as Tiger Woods thrilled the galleries during his heydays, his achievements do not come anywhere near those of Jack Nicklaus (Tiger came off the rails, but this is why hes still my favourite GOAT, 6/1). Nicklaus won a record 18 majors. He was also runner-up a record 19 times, and holds the record for the most top-five finishes in the four majors with 56. He also holds the record for the most top 10 finishes with 73. The only record that Tiger exceeded Nicklaus was the number of PGA wins which was 82 (with Sam Snead), Nicklaus winning 73. Rob Park, Surrey Hills Past doesnt compare You cant compare a sportsman from 50 years ago with someone today unless they played each other. Its also much harder to be a top sportsman today than it was then, with fiercer competition and much more severe fitness requirements. David Ginsbourg, East Bentleigh AND ANOTHER THING Credit: Matt Golding Pronunciation Your correspondents have only hinted at the issues that arise from the absence of the letter T (Letters, 5/1). Whats baffling is the language of so many newsreaders, reporters, interviewers et al: CHumour, Tweny, CiDy, ParDy, PreDDy, MaDDer, Phodo, Chuesday. There are many more. Kevin Howard, Frankston Ive heard a number of people over recent times using the word anythink, but cant seem to find it in my dictionary. Perhaps it should be updated. Mark Kennedy, Brighton US politics How sad to hear there has been a falling out between Elon Musk and Nigel Farage (Elon Musk turns on Nigel Farage, calls on him to quit as Reform party leader, 6/1). Lets hope there is no similar disagreement between Musk and Donald Trump. John Walsh, Watsonia With the billionaires swarming the White House, its a case of America transitioning from Biden to Buy Don. Jon ONeill, Waurn Ponds Loading How appropriate (Trump complains that US flags will be half-mast on his inauguration day, 5/1) that Old Glory will be at half-mast during Trumps inauguration as president. Robert Page, Barwon Heads Scott Boland We have electrical tradesmen, plumbing tradesmen. But Scott Boland is a cricket tradesman. Jim Usher, St Andrews Wow, 10 wickets for the match! Scott Boland could be a regular in the team if only he came from NSW. John Howell, Heathmont Furthermore I was quite moved to read that high-fee private schools are doing it tough. I have decided to organise a series of working bees to help these poor battlers out. Mick Hussey, Beaconsfield Re Dan Kaufman (Happy new year? Not for me, unless we ban these annoyances, 6/1), theres an update to Newtons Laws of Motion: Breathing down the neck of the body in front does not increase the motion of the queue behind. Peter Thomas, Pascoe Vale Newly minted Opposition Leader Brad Battin will unveil his frontbench on Tuesday in a shadow cabinet reshuffle that rewards key allies while mending relations with some former opponents. Planning spokesman and Brighton MP James Newbury will receive the coveted treasury portfolio, according to two Liberal sources, while upper house MP for Western Victoria Beverley McArthur will be promoted to shadow cabinet as local government spokeswoman. Both backed Battin over former leader John Pesutto. Victorian Opposition Leader Brad Battin will unveil his new-look shadow cabinet on Tuesday. Credit: Justin McManus Kew MP Jess Wilson will retain the education portfolio and upper house MP Georgie Crozier will remain health spokeswoman, the sources said, despite being former Pesutto allies. As for Pesutto, the member for Hawthorn will be relegated to the backbench. JERUSALEM, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Two gunmen fired from a moving car at an Israeli bus and other vehicles in the Israeli-occupied West Bank on Monday, killing three people and injuring seven, Israeli authorities said. The attack occurred near al-Funduq, a Palestinian village in the northeastern West Bank, said the Israeli military in a statement. The suspects fled the scene, triggering an Israeli manhunt. Large Israeli forces set up roadblocks and surrounded several nearby Palestinian towns, it added. Israel's Magen David Adom rescue service said the dead victims include two women in their 60s and a man in his 40s. Seven others were injured, among whom the bus driver was seriously wounded. The attack occurred amid heightened tensions in the West Bank, marked by daily Israeli raids that frequently result in fatalities, alongside the ongoing conflict in Gaza. JAKARTA, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Indonesia aims to increase exports by 7.1 percent to 294.45 billion U.S. dollars in 2025, according to Trade Minister Budi Santoso on Monday. Santoso noted that this growth aligns with the government's efforts to achieve higher economic expansion. Exports from micro, small, and medium enterprises are expected to grow by 9.63 percent in 2025, reaching 19.33 billion dollars, he said at the ministry. For 2026, Santoso targets exports to grow by 7.09 percent to 315.31 billion dollars. In 2027, the country's exports are projected to expand by 7.89 percent, reaching 340.20 billion dollars. The escalation of global conflicts has driven up commodity prices, benefiting Indonesia as one of the world's largest producer of palm oil, thermal coal, and tin. The country also produces gold, nickel, and copper. Completion of projects in Maha fastest in India Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis along with MoS Adv Ashish Jaiswal, MLA Krishna Khopde and others during dedication of 7 new RoBs at a programme held on Sunday. (Pic by Satish Raut) Staff Reporter : Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis dedicates seven RoBs The 7 railway overbridges n Godhani Sindi Rly Chandur Rly Babupeth Dondaicha Jalgaon Washim The process of development in Maharashtra has set new benchmarks as completion of public projects is fastest in the country. Taking pride in the achievement, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reiterated commitment to transformation of Maharashtra through infrastructure development as same is interlinked with economic progress. Chief Minister was speaking at dedication of seven railway overbridges (RoBs) at a function held in city on Sunday, underlining a fact that the delivery of projects has increased. Recalling the earlier times when one Government used to lay foundation, an other used to take it half way through and the next Government then inaugurated the same. In the process, citizens suffered the most due to delay in completion of infrastructure projects. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi envisaged, Maharashtra Government has laid thrust on speedy delivery of public projects, and particularly lauded Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (MRIDCL) for the efficacy and commitment to implementation of Governments vision. The programme was held at Dr Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeths Post Graduate Hostel campus on Central Bazar Road. Maharashtra Minister of State Adv Ashish Jaiswal, legislators Krishna Khopde, Kishor Jorgewar and Shyam Khode also were present at the programme. Echoing the word of MahaRail MD Rajesh Kumar Jaiswal, the Chief Minister stated that Itwari-Umrer, a 65 km section of Broad Gauge railway network, would herald new development in the Eastern Vidarbha region. Recalling the contribution of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari in giving thrust to infrastructure development in State, Chief Minister said, Maharashtra Government is also working in tandem for improving ease of living of citizens. Maharashtra Government is committed to bringing about the change and said the way Maha Rail is working, the speed as well the uniqueness in each project is visible. Earlier, MahaRail MD Rajesh Kumar Jaiswal listed the achievements of the organisation and specially in Nagpur. The Nagpur-Nagbhid railway line is the most prestigtious as same is likely to be commissioned by November. Further, he said nearly 200 infrastructure projects in State are in various stages and in next two years, it would herald sea change in the way people travel. Ngp-Umred broad gauge to open in Apr The 65 km Nagpur-Umrer Broad Gauge section in South East Central Railway (SECR) is going to ease movement of coal rakes to thermal power houses in the region. Rajesh Kumar Jaiswal, MD, MahaRail, informed that the section, likely to open in April later this year, would cut down the travel time from Umrer mines of Western Coalfields Limited (WCL) to Koradi and Khaparkheda plants of MahaGenco from 4 hours to 22 minutes. He also mentioned that a Gati Shakti terminal is set-up at Umrer and said if any entrepreneur is interested in setting-up coal washery, same would be quite beneficial investment. Anti-Naxal operation 4 Naxals, cop killed in Cgarh encounter DANTEWADA : Automatic weapons, including AK-47 rifle and self loading rifle recovered from the spot in Bastar region FOUR Naxalites were killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarhs Bastar region, a senior police official said on Sunday. A head constable of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) was also killed in the face-off, he said. The gunfight broke out on Saturday evening at a forest in south Abujhmaad along the border of Narayanpur and Dantewada districts when a joint team of the DRG and Special Task Force (STF) was out on an anti-Naxalite operation, the official said. After the exchange of fire stopped late Saturday night, bodies of four Naxalites and automatic weapons, including AK-47 rifle and self loading rifle (SLR), were recovered from the spot, he said. DRG head constable Sannu Karam was also killed in the gunfight, the official said, adding that search operation was still underway in the area. The anti-Naxalite operation, comprising the DRG teams from Narayanpur, Dantewada, Kondagaon and Bastar districts, was launched on Friday. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Sunday said the fight will continue to end the Naxal menace. So far, there is news of four Naxalites being killed in an encounter between security forces and Naxalites in the south Abujhmaad region bordering Narayanpur and Dantewada districts, Sai said in a post on X. The Chief Minister expressed grief over the policemans death in the gunfight. DRG head constable Sannu Karam was also martyred in the encounter. His sacrifice will not go in vain. Security forces have been fighting very strongly against Naxalism and the fight will continue till the menace is eliminated, he said. On January 3, a Naxalite was killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarhs Gariaband district, which falls in Raipur division. Last year, 219 Naxalites were neutralised by security forces in separate encounters in the state, according to police. Athawales RPI may go solo in local body polls Staff Reporter : Upset over his party not given ministerial post and MLC seat, Union Minister of State for Social Justice and National President of RPI(A) Ramdas Athawale said, We should get some seats by Mahayuti, else RPI may think of contesting the municipal and district elections on its own. Athawale was addressing mediapersons at Ravi Bhavan on Sunday. We had demanded one ministerial post and MLC seat in the State for the RPI (A). But we did not get it. That is why we are upset. We got 6 MLCs seats when we were in an alliance with the Congress. However, we expressed regret that we were not getting a share when we are in the grand alliance since 2012. We should get some seats in the grand alliance in the upcoming local body elections, demanded Athawale. Calling One Nation, One Election bill as constitution, Athawale stated, One Nation, One Election is a provision in the constitution itself. The first few elections were held in the same lines. But later, after the incident of withdrawing support from the ruling party, this method was disrupted. Also, after the Government of various parties came into existence, this method was abandoned. Now, Athawale clarified to a question that his party has full support for this bill brought by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He had come to the city for a tribute program for former MLA Upendra Shende. Senior party leaders Gautam Sonawane, Vijay Aglave, Rajan Waghmare, Balu Gharde, Vinod Thul and others were present. Digital data protection rules to empower citizens: Govt NEW DELHI : THE draft Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) rules aim to safeguard citizens rights for the protection of their personal data and also address specific challenges like unauthorised commercial use of data and digital harms, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology said on Sunday. The rules empower citizens by giving them greater control over their data with provisions for informed consent, the right to erasure and grievance redressal. Parents and guardians are empowered to ensure online safety for their children, the official statement explains. The rules are designed to empower citizens in a rapidly growing digital economy, while achieving the right balance between regulation and innovation, so that the benefits of Indias growing innovation ecosystem are available to all citizens and Indias digital economy, the statement said. The rules place citizens at the heart of the data protection framework. Data Fiduciaries must provide clear and accessible information about how personal data is processed, enabling informed consent, it added. The statement highlights that Indias model strikes a unique balance between fostering innovation and regulation to protect personal data. Unlike restrictive global frameworks, these rules encourage economic growth while prioritizing citizen welfare. Stakeholders view this as a new global template for data governance. An adequate period would be provided so that all stakeholders, from small enterprises to large corporates, may transition smoothly to achieve compliance with the new law, the statement said. The rules embrace a digital by design philosophy. Consent mechanisms, grievance redressal and the functioning of the Data Protection Board are all aimed at ensuring Ease of Living and Ease of Doing Business. The Board will function as a digital office, with a digital platform and app to enable citizens to approach it digitally and to have their complaints adjudicated without their physical presence being required, the statement explained. From processing complaints to interacting with Data Fiduciaries, workflows are optimised to ensure speed and transparency. This reflects Indias forward-looking approach to governance and builds trust between citizens and Data Fiduciaries, the statement said. Nagasaki atomic bomb survivor, who devoted his life for peace, passes away TOKYO : SHIGEMI Fukahori, a survivor of the 1945 Nagasaki atomic bombing, who devoted his life to advocating for peace and campaigning against nuclear weapons, has died. He was 93. Fukahori died at a hospital in Nagasaki, southwestern Japan, on January 3, the Urakami Catholic Church, where he prayed almost daily until last year, said on Sunday. Local media reported he died of old age. The church, located about 500 metres from ground zero and near the Nagasaki Peace Park, is widely seen as a symbol of hope and peace, as its bell tower and some statues and survived the nuclear bombing. Fukahori was only 14 when the US dropped the bomb on Nagasaki on August 9, 1945, killing tens of thousands of people, including his family. That came three days after the nuclear attack on Hiroshima, which killed 140,000 people. Japan surrendered days later, ending World War II and the countrys nearly half-century of aggression across Asia. Fukahori, who worked at a shipyard about 3 kilometres from where the bomb dropped, couldnt talk about what happened for years, not only because of the painful memories but also how powerless he felt then. Photography is documentation; unfolds a story: Vinay Thakur Staff Reporter : On the concluding day of The Power of Monochrome, black-and-white photography exhibition, Vinay Thakur, renowned fine art photographer with over decades of experience, engaged the audience on Developing a Photographic Vision at the Rangayan Hall, Chitnavis Centre, on January 5th. Addressing a packed audience, he shared the transformative essence of monochrome photography. Thakur engaged into the art of observation, perception and storytelling, underscoring the interplay of light, shadow and emotion. Photography is not about capturing moments: its about crafting narratives that resonate beyong the picture, he explained. He also addressed photography as something operating in a gymnasium, as you frame your vision. It is a form of painting where expression breathes life into the image. Demonstrating some of his notable works, Thakur elaborated on the meaning and observations behind each photograph. Feeling Alive, Kashmiri Lady, Reaching the Goal Together and Looking back at the Reflection, Thakur revealed stories behind these monochrome imagery, capturing the subtitles of life life, emotions and worlds nuances. The photograph of Kasmiri Lady is one of his unique interactions during his trip at the Kashmir, as he fascinatedly wanted to shot this scene, lady and her reaction looking at the Rifle, he added. During the second-half, Thakur fondly recalled the advice from one of his mentors in France as, KISS - Keep it Simple, Stupid. This philisophy helped him guide his approach, creating impactful photographs. Thakur summarised his philosophy as, Photography is a documentation that unfolds as a story, in a media interaction at the concluding session. He appealed young photographers to look beyond the lens and engage themselves in the creative process of monochrome imagery. PWD Minister Singh meets accident victims in hospital PWD Minister, Rakesh Singh knowing about health condition of an injured at a hospital. Staff Reporter : State Public Works Minister Rakesh Singh, on Sunday visited the injured victims of the road accident occurred in Vijaya Nagar area, on Friday night. He met with the injured at two different hospitals to know about their health condition. It may be noted that the dreadful accident claimed the lives of two people and resulted in injuries to five persons, two of whom are undergoing treatment at hospitals. Speaking on the occasion Singh assured that all the injured are receiving proper medical care under the supervision of doctors. Expressing solidarity during this difficult time, Singh conveyed his support to the victims and their families. He also wished for their speedy recovery, praying to Maa Narmada for their health. Likewise, he also instructed officials and concerned doctors to ensure proper treatment for all the injured. "I'm very impressed and I'm very thankful that you gave me an insight of Chinese culture." A Chinese cultural experience event was held for foreigners living in Chizhou in China's Anhui Province. Shaping Indias digital future: A citizen-centric approach to data protection By Ashwini Vaishnaw : When we talk about the global future, then human-centric approaches should be foremost. These words from our Honble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at the recent United Nations Summit of the Future reflect Indias vision of putting people first. This philosophy has guided our efforts in shaping the Draft Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Rules, 2025. The rules, after being finalized, would operationalize the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, bringing to life our commitment to safeguarding citizens right to personal data protection. A New Era of Empowerment: The Indian citizen lies at the heart of the DPDP Rules, 2025. In a world increasingly dominated by data, we believe it is imperative to place individuals at the heart of the governance framework. These rules empower citizens with rights such as informed consent, data erasure, and the ability to appoint digital nominees. Citizens will no longer feel helpless in the face of breaches or unauthorized data usage. They will have tools to protect and manage their digital identities effectively. The rules are designed with simplicity and clarity, ensuring that every Indian, regardless of their technical knowhow, can understand and exercise their rights. From ensuring consent is sought in clear terms to mandating that information be provided to the citizens in English or any of the 22 Indian languages listed in the Constitution, the framework reflects our commitment to inclusivity. Safeguarding children: Children requires special care in the digital age. Recognizing this, the rules mandate verifiable parental or guardian consent for processing the personal data of minors. Additional safeguards ensure that children are shielded from exploitation, unauthorized profiling, and other digital harms. These provisions reflect our dedication to creating a safer digital space for the future generation. Balancing Growth with Regulation: Indias digital economy has been a global success story, and we are determined to keep this momentum alive. Our framework ensures personal data protection for the citizens while enabling innovation in the digital economy. Unlike some international models that lean heavily towards regulation, our approach is pragmatic and growth-oriented. This balance ensures that citizens are protected without stifling the innovative spirit that drives our startups and businesses. Small businesses and startups will face lower compliance burdens. The rules are designed with graded responsibilities, taking into account the varying capacities of stakeholders. Larger companies, based on assessment of data fiduciaries, will have higher obligations, ensuring accountability without disrupting growth. A Digital-First Philosophy: At the core of these rules is a digital by design philosophy. The Data Protection Board, tasked with resolving grievances and enforcing compliance, will function predominantly as a digital office. By leveraging technology, we ensure efficiency, transparency, and speed. Citizens can file complaints, track progress, and seek resolutions without unnecessary physical interactions. This digital-first approach extends to consent mechanisms and data management workflows. By streamlining processes, we make it easier for fiduciaries to comply, and for citizens to engage, fostering trust in the system. Inclusive Approach: The journey to these rules has been as inclusive as their intent. Grounded in the principles of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, the draft rules are a product of wide ranging inputs gathered from various stakeholders and study of global best practices. We have opened a 45-day public consultation period, inviting feedback and suggestions from citizens, businesses, and civil society. This engagement is a testament to our belief in collective wisdom and the importance of participatory policymaking, while ensuring that the framework is not only robust but also adaptable to the unique challenges of our socio-economic landscape. To ensure citizens are aware of their rights and responsibilities, widespread awareness initiatives will be undertaken to educate the citizens about their rights on their personal data. A Vision for the Future: As we unveil these rules, we are not merely addressing present challenges but laying the groundwork for a secure and innovative digital future. The Draft Digital Personal Data Protection Rules, 2025, reflect Indias leadership in shaping global data governance norms. By placing citizens at the center and fostering a conducive environment for innovation, we are setting a precedent for the world to follow. Our commitment is clear: to protect, empower, and enable every Indian in this digital age. I encourage every citizen, business, and civil society group to participate in this dialogue by sharing comments and suggestions during the consultation period. Together, let us refine these rules to create a framework that truly represents the aspirations of a secure, inclusive, and thriving digital India. The Author is Minister for Electronics and Information Technology, Information & Broadcasting, and Railways Spanish woman returns to India in search of biological mother By Arabinda Mishra BHUBANESWAR, SNEHA, a Spanish citizen, has returned to India in search of her biological mother, who had abandoned her and her brother 20 years ago. However, 21-year-old Sneha is running out of time as she has to return to Spain on Monday for her educational commitments. The researcher in childrens education wanted to trace her roots and reached India with scant information about her past. Her Spanish parents Gema Vidal and Juan Josh supported her in her quest and Gema accompanied Sneha to her home state Odisha. They had adopted Sneha and her brother Somu in 2010 from an orphanage in Bhubaneswar, where they were sheltered after their mother Banalata Das abandoned them in 2005. The purpose of my journey from Spain to Bhubaneswar is to find my biological parents, especially my mother. I want to find her and meet her. I am fully prepared for the journey even if it is difficult, Sneha told PTI. Asked if she would chide her biological mother for abandoning her, Sneha remained mum. She was only over a year old, and her brother was just a few months old at that time. Sneha said her Spanish parents have given the siblings everything in life and never made them feel like they were adopted, ensuring the best education and freedom to make their own choices. They have given us unconditional love, she said. Accompanied by Gema, a yoga teacher in Zaragoza city of Spain, Sneha arrived in Bhubaneswar on December 19 last year and they have been staying in a hotel. Somu, however, could not come as he was busy with some work in Spain. If they do not find Snehas biological mother by Monday, they will come back in March for a longer stay. We have to return to Spain as Sneha has joined a training programme which should not be discontinued. If we do not get Banalata in the next 24 hours, we will come back to Bhubaneswar in March, Gema said. Banalata had abandoned Sneha and Somu at their rented house in Nayapally area in Bhubaneswar in 2005. Banalatas husband Santosh, who worked as a cook in a private firm, had earlier abandoned his family, which comprised his wife, and four children, including Sneha and Somu. UK grooming gang scandal debate reignited Elon Musk, J K Rowling, British MPs raise subject LONDON : RECENTLY, social media platform X witnessed an intensed debate on the alleged grooming gangs scandal in the UK, with British MPs and social celebs like Tesla CEO Elon Musk, British author JK Rowling sharing their views on the issue. Musk criticised the UKs handling of such crimes, directly calling out former CPS head and current Prime Minister Keir Starmer. In a post on X, Musk wrote, In the UK, serious crimes such as rape require the Crown Prosecution Services approval for the police to charge suspects. Who was the head of the CPS when rape gangs were allowed to exploit young girls without facing justice? Keir Starmer, 2008 -2013. In another post, he wrote, Free Tommy Robinson! Robinson is a British journalist who had released a documentary on the alleged grooming gangs and alleged rapes of young women. Robinson who is in jail was represented by his team on X that once again raised the subject of alleged rapes in the UK. Nicoles story. Nicole was raped and pimped at the age of 11 by members of a grooming gang in Telford, one of many, many cases in that area. A man is languishing in solitary confinement in a high security prison because he dared to speak out and tell the truth about this scourge - the industrialised rape, pimping, and molestation of little girls by depraved adult men. That man is Tommy Robinson, a post on X from Robinsons handle said. Meanwhile, author J K Rowling also condemned the crimes and questioned potential police corruption, describing the revelations as almost beyond belief, citing an article of Telegraph by journalist Sam Ashworth-Hayes. Rowling wrote on X, The details emerging about what the rape gangs (why call them grooming gangs? Its like calling those who stab people to death knife owners) did to girls in Rotherham are downright horrific. The allegations of possible police corruption in the case are almost beyond belief. Former UK PM Liz Truss also wrote on X about the alleged grooming scandal. She said, These appalling rape gang cases of girls as young as 11 shame our country. Not only do the perpetrators need to be punished. So do the authorities who turned a blind eye in the name of not inflaming racial tensions. She added, The horrific failings on rape gangs show the complete lack of accountability in British criminal justice. The proper role of Lord Chancellor needs to be restored (to its pre-2005 state), and the judiciary should be accountable to them. The alleged Rotherham scandal happened between 1997 and 2013. On September 13, 2024, the Crown Prosecution Service said that seven men were jailed for committing child sex abuse offences against two young girls in Rotherham during the 2000s. Operation Stovewood was a major investigation into child sexual abuse and exploitation which took place in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, between 1997 and 2013. US Ambassador Eric Garcetti meets Chief Minister Sai Staff Reporter RAIPUR, United States Ambassador in India Eric Garcetti called on Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai at Chief Ministers House Raipur on Sunday. Ambassador Eric Garcetti said, It was mydream to come to Chhattisgarh and I had read and heard a lot about the nature of Chhattisgarh, its tourist places and culture. It feels great to be here today. He said that Chhattisgarh is a peaceful and beautiful state. Now America will also become a partner in the development journey of this beautiful state. Ambassador Garcetti had in-depth discussions on promoting investment, cultural aspects and economic prospects in the state. Chief Minister Sai discussed with the United States Ambassador in detail about the development works taking place in Chhattisgarh and the favourable environment created for investors by the new industrial policy. Sai said that Chhattisgarh is open to global investors and development is taking place on a large scale in every sector. The cooperation of friendly countries like America is a matter of pride for the state, he added. Ambassador Garcetti said that Chhattisgarh is a surplus state in the field of electricity production. There is immense investment potential in sectors like energy, defence, logistics, IT and semiconductors in Chhattisgarh. The Ambassador said, We will work together towards promoting investment of various American companies in Chhattisgarh. Chhattisgarh can become an important destination for global investors, he added. The Chief Minister told Garcetti that all investors are welcome in Chhattisgarh and the State government will work to provide all necessary facilities to them. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Sai invited the United States Ambassador to visit Bastar. Garcetti assured the Chief Minister that he along with his family members would visit Bastar. Chief Minister Sai presented shawl and bell metal Nandi to the US Ambassador. Ambassador Garcetti enjoyed tea with the Chief Minister. Secretaries to Chief Minister Rahul Bhagat, P Dayanand, Dr Basavraju S, Commissioner of Department of Public Relations Dr Ravi Mittal, Director of Industries Department Prabhat Malik and other officials were present on the occasion. JERUSALEM, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Israel said on Monday that it has received no new information from Hamas regarding a list of 34 hostages reportedly approved for exchange in a potential Gaza ceasefire deal. The list, widely circulated in both Israeli and Arab media, includes 12 women and children, 11 men aged 50 or above, and 11 young men with medical conditions. In a statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said the condition of the hostages reportedly included in the list remains unknown. Hamas has not clarified whether these individuals are alive or deceased. "As yet, Israel has not received any confirmation or comment by Hamas regarding the status of the hostages on the list," the office stated. It further noted that the list was originally compiled by Israel and transferred to mediators in July 2024. Mediation talks are being held in Doha, Qatar, with an aim to reach a ceasefire in the 15-month war between Israel and Hamas and to secure the release of approximately 100 hostages still held by Palestinian factions in the Gaza Strip. The primary points of contention between the two warring parties focus on the duration of the ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces. Hamas demands a permanent ceasefire and an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, while Israel insists on a temporary truce and a military presence in the Palestinian enclave. Israel has been conducting a large-scale offensive against Hamas in Gaza to retaliate against a Hamas rampage through the southern Israeli border on Oct. 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and about 250 taken hostage. The Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks in Gaza has risen to 45,854, with injuries reaching 109,139, Gaza-based health authorities said in a statement on Monday. History lives all around the Lower East Side, you just have to open your eyes to find it! Led by prominent neighborhood expert and licensed New York City Tour Guide Richard Soden, youll see the great things New York City has to offer and unlock the secrets upon which the city was build. Experience the best of Manhattans vibrant streets, historic landmarks and lesser-known wonders with a life long New Yorker Join Richard and stroll through the streets of the Lower East Side to visit some of the neighborhoods oldest attractions and culinary institutions. We can also include food if youd like. Visit: www.EyesOnManhattan.com Email: rsoden2020@gmail.com Call: (631) 513-5090 *This is a paid advertisement. ABU DHABI, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, deputy prime minister and minister of foreign affairs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), on Monday met with visiting Syria's interim Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani on bilateral ties and developments in Syria. The two sides discussed ways to enhance the "strong fraternal" bilateral relations in areas of mutual interest, reviewed the overall developments in Syria and the current regional situation, and addressed "several issues of mutual concern," the UAE Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Sheikh Abdullah "reaffirmed the UAE's steadfast stance in supporting Syria's independence and sovereignty over its entire territory" and voiced the country's "solidarity with the Syrian people and its support for all regional and international efforts aimed at fulfilling their aspirations for security, peace, stability, and a dignified life," it said. Following the meeting, Syria's interim Foreign Ministry posted four photos on social media platform X showing al-Shibani shaking hands and having talks with Sheikh Abdullah. According to the two ministries, the meeting was also attended by senior officials from both sides, including defense ministers of the two countries. The visit is part of al-Shibani's ongoing regional tour aimed at bolstering Syria's stability, security, and economic recovery. TOKYO, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Japan's Nippon Steel on Monday reiterated its determination to challenge U.S. President Joe Biden's decision to block its takeover of U.S. Steel. Nippon Steel President Tadashi Imai said in a statement issued Monday that "we will pursue every possible measure" as "we will never give up on expanding our U.S. operations." The Japanese steel giant, the world's fourth-largest by production volume, will hold a press conference on Tuesday, Kyodo News reported. A Nippon Steel executive said that the company wants to confirm various issues ahead of the press conference, it added. Meanwhile, Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on Monday called for clarity over Biden's block of the proposed acquisition, noting that "they need to be able to explain clearly why there is a national security concern." Biden said Friday that he has decided to block the 14.1 billion U.S. dollars sale of U.S. Steel to Nippon Steel, citing risks to national security, while urging the two steelmakers to "fully and permanently" abandon their plan. In a joint statement released after the decision, the two firms said the U.S. authorities' review of the international buyout project was "manipulated to advance President Biden's political agenda" and that they will "take all appropriate action to protect our legal rights." SEOUL, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- The South Korean anti-corruption agency and the police on Monday reached a consensus that they will jointly execute the arrest warrant against impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol under the framework of the joint investigation unit. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) sent an official document late Sunday to the National Office of Investigation (NOI) of the Korean National Police Agency, requesting that the task of executing the arrest warrant be transferred to the police. The CIO formed the joint investigation unit with the NOI and the defense ministry's investigation headquarters to probe Yoon's martial law imposition. The CIO said that after considering the police's professionalism in executing arrest warrants and the need for a unified command structure at the scene, it had decided to transfer the task of arresting Yoon to the NOI so as to carry out the arrest more quickly and efficiently. However, the NOI said early Monday that the document contained "legal flaws," making it difficult for the police to comply with the request. Local media reports said that the police's stand implies that the responsibility for executing the arrest warrant lies with CIO prosecutors, with the police playing a supporting role rather than serving as the main executor. The two sides agreed later in the day to maintain and work under the joint investigation unit. In a statement released Monday, the joint investigation unit announced that they had submitted an application to the Seoul Western District Court to extend the validity of Yoon's arrest warrant. However, the specific duration of the extension was not disclosed. The Seoul Western District Court on Dec. 31 issued the arrest warrant for Yoon, citing allegations of insurrection, along with a search warrant for the presidential residence. The warrant is valid until Monday. The police said that they are tracking Yoon's whereabouts and will actively try to arrest him during a second attempt to execute the warrant, adding they are discussing measures with the CIO to address potential obstruction by the Presidential Security Service during the second execution. When asked if special police forces would be deployed for the second attempt, the police said they would consider all feasible options. The impeachment motion against Yoon was passed in the National Assembly on Dec. 14 last year and was delivered to the constitutional court to deliberate on it for up to 180 days, during which Yoon's presidential power is suspended. Yoon, who was named by investigative agencies as a suspected ringleader on insurrection charge, declared martial law on the night of Dec. 3, but it was revoked by the National Assembly hours later. BERLIN, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- A sixth victim has died from injuries sustained in the car-ramming attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg in late December, local authorities said on Monday. The 52-year-old woman succumbed to her injuries in hospital, according to the public prosecutor's office in Naumburg, Saxony-Anhalt, where Magdeburg is the capital. The attack occurred on Dec. 20, when a 50-year-old man drove a car into crowds at the market. The incident has so far claimed the lives of a 9-year-old boy and five women aged between 45 and 75. At least 299 people were injured. The suspect, a doctor originally from Saudi Arabia, remains in custody. According to the German news agency dpa, he had been involved in seven prior police investigations between April 2023 and October 2024. Investigations into the attack are ongoing. Authorities are assessing the suspect's mental state, and the Naumburg Public Prosecutor's Office said an expert evaluation will be commissioned to determine his mental health and level of culpability. GAZA, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- At least 19 Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes across Gaza, while an infant died due to severe cold weather on Monday, according to Palestinian sources. Eight Palestinians, including a woman, a child, and two twin brothers, were killed and 15 others injured in Israeli air raids targeting three houses in Gaza City and Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip, Mahmoud Basal, spokesperson for the Palestinian Civil Defense in Gaza, told Xinhua. Another four were killed in an Israeli bombing at a house in the Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza, Basal said. The Al-Awda Hospital said in a press statement that 40 people, most of them children, were injured after an Israeli drone dropped an explosive bomb in the yard of a school housing displaced people west of the al-Nuseirat camp in central Gaza. The Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, said in a statement that seven people, including two children, were killed by Israeli airstrikes and artillery shelling on the neighboring Rafah city. Meanwhile, the Gaza-based health authorities said in a press statement that 35-day-old infant Youssef Kalloub froze to death on Monday. In a statement, the Hamas-run Gaza government media office warned that the number is likely to rise due to the harsh conditions experienced by the displaced people in Gaza. It urged the international community to compel Israel to stop the war and end its "serious repercussions," while calling on Arab countries to offer more humanitarian aid to the enclave amidst cold weather and lack of shelter. "Cold weather and lack of shelter are causing the deaths of newborns in Gaza. 7,700 newborns lack lifesaving care. To date, at least seven babies have reportedly died," the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East wrote Sunday on social media platform X. Israel has been conducting a large-scale offensive against Hamas in Gaza to retaliate against a Hamas rampage through the southern Israeli border on Oct. 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and about 250 taken hostages. The Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks in Gaza has risen to 45,854, the Gaza-based health authorities said in a statement on Monday. The Orange County Retired Teachers will meet at 10:30 a.m., Monday, Jan.13, at Wesley United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall located at 401 N 37th Street, Orange. Their guest speaker will be Gina Rogers, the director of The Women's Care Center in Vidor. It is a Christian- based recovery center for women. They are collecting canned goods for the center. If you did not bring canned goods to the last meeting, they ask that you bring them on Jan. 13. Volunteer hours need to be turned in to Ginger Williams. They will have the latest update from Tim Lee on the timeline for implementing the Social Security Fairness Act signed by President Biden on Jan. 5. All Orange County retired teachers and school personnel are invited. They ask that you attend to help keep their local and state organizations strong. Refreshments will be served. 26 deported | IMPHAL, Jan 5 : At least 26 Myanmar Nationals who stayed in Manipur illegally were deported to their native country today. Sharing the update on his Facebook page, Chief Minister N Biren Singh wrote 26 MYANMAR NATIONALS DEPORTED A group of 26 Myanmar Nationals who entered India through Manipurs porous border were deported to their home country today. The Government of Manipur reaffirms its commitment to providing humanitarian assistance to those fleeing war, ensuring their care and dignified departure. However, the state maintains a firm stance against allowing illegal migrants to stay back in Manipur. May 3, 2023 to Jan 3, 2025 Kangpokpi outrage | May 3, 2023 and January 3, 2025. The connect between the two would not have missed the eye of any keen observer. Perhaps the only major difference may be that while in 2023 the targets were Meitei settlements at Torbung and Churachandpur in 2025 the target was obviously Kangpokpi police station or the State police. While the scene in 2025, complete with all the gun wielding elements, have been reported even in the media houses located in other parts of the country, no one, other than the Imphal based media have reported on gun wielding elements leading the march of destruction in 2023. And that is how the violence started. The first seed of the violence was sown at Torbung and Chura- chandpur and Imphal and the valley areas retaliated only late in the evening. The Sangai Express has already recounted multiple times how a former Kuki MLA dropped in at the office of this newspaper on May 3, 2023 in the evening, all proof that Imphal retaliated only late in the evening. Like on May 3, 2023 the violence that unfolded at Kangpokpi on January 3, 2025, was engineered by the gun toting elements, in full battle fatigues and cheered on by the womenfolk and the townfolks. The SP of Kangpokpi was injured in the attack on the police station and the timing of the attack also seems to have been prepared well in advance. Kangpokpi and the Kuki militants went on the offensive after new Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla had just taken oath as the 17th Governor of Manipur. And true to the arrangement carried out by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, a high level security meeting was convened by the newly sworn in Governor sans the Chief Minister the next day. Details of the high level security meeting are not available but surely the Kangpokpi outrage would have featured prominently during the meeting, for here is a case of a police officer being injured with fully armed Kuki militants leading the attack and being cheered on by the womenfolk and others. Nearly 48 hours since the Kangpokpi outrage and no report has come in of any arrest being made much less a crackdown launched to pull up the gun toting elements. The only information that has come after the Kangpokpi outrage is that the authority concerned has agreed to withdraw the Central Armed Police Force units stationed at Uyokching bordering Imphal East and Kangpokpi districts. Looks more like a case of the authority concerned caving in to the demands of the Kuki militants and vocalised by the Committee on Tribal Unity ! Delhi continues to handle the Kuki militants and their frontal organisations such as CoTU and the Churachandpur based Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF) with kids gloves and it has been like this after Manipur went up in flames on May 3, 2023. That the Kangpokpi outrage had the full backing of well armed Kuki militants is now well known, but one wonders why nothing has been said about the participation of Kuki armed groups in the march that targeted Meitei settlements at Torbung and Chura-chandpur in 2023? The conspiracy behind this silence would not have missed the eyes and ears of the Imphal based media houses and it is in taking cognizance of this fact that the Imphal based media houses were dubbed Meitei press in the early days of the conflict. One wonders what the same persons who parachuted into Imphal during the early days of the violence would have to say this time around. Or is it going to be a case of the Meitei armed groups opening fire at Kangpokpi that prompted the attack on the police station ? Ludicrous this poser may sound like, but this has been raised against the backdrop of the fact that already a well known newspaper has gone ahead and reported that Kuki bunkers were first fired on by Meitei armed persons at the Uyokching area on December 24 and it is this which triggered a retaliation, setting off a chain reaction that went on till December 29 ! What Manipur should never forget is that the battle is being fought on different fronts and in as much as village volunteers have taken it upon themselves to proceed to the front, there are others who too have been contributing immensely to blunt the false narratives churned out by some pen pushers across the country. Bridging the divide : Balancing academic foundations and professional heights | Samchetsabam Ratankumar Singh A Journey Through Diverse Strata Listen! The best thing one can do is stay updated and keep moving. We all have big dreams, ideas, and imaginations, but let me tell you, with all my years of experience, reading countless books, and working in over ten reputed organizations, dreams, ideas, and imagination are worthless unless you act upon them. Action is the only key to success. From the dusty classrooms of a humble villagea place where people struggle to earn even the means of livelihoodto the bustling metro and cosmopolitan cities, my journey has been a kaleidoscope of experiences, personalities, and ambitions. I have travelled from village schools to the prestigious halls of top South Indian colleges and interacted with teachers and students from across the globe. Individuals hailing from remote villages and urban centers, rich and poor alike, each navigate their unique paths with different ambitions and approaches. These encounters shaped my understanding of what it takes to transcend the divide between academics and professional aspirations. Memorizing theories, regurgitating them during exams, and securing a piece of paper labelled as a Graduate, Master, or PhD certificate is of no use unless you have real, applicable knowledge. Today, as a corporate leader working with some of the brightest mindsfrom associates to C-suite executivesI feel compelled to share insights for those striving to excel both academically and professionally. The Disconnect Between Academics and Professional Demands Modern professional demands far outpace what traditional academic systems prepare us for. Schools and universities often emphasize theoretical knowledge and grades, focusing on rote learning rather than practical skills. While academic achievements serve as a foundation, they are not the sole determinants of success in the professional realm. What is needed is a mindset shift, a recalibration of skill sets, and the ability to reset perspectives to meet the dynamic demands of todays workplaces. Remember, you have all the qualities to be successful, but success requires early preparation, deliberate steps, and taking calculated risks. Why is everyone not successful ? Because not everyone is willing to walk the path less travelled. Many aim for a stable career or even think of buying their way into a job, but has anyone succeeded in life without hard work, perseverance, and skill improvement? The answer is no. The biggest risk, as I often say, is the risk of not taking any risk. The Three Pillars of Success : Mindset, Reset, and Skillset Cultivating the Right Mindset : Developing the right mindset begins during academic years. Start with small, deliberate steps Observation Skills: Ask the right questions to yourself and others. Be genuine; avoid grey areaslifes decisions should be clear, either black or white. Self-Awareness: Reflect on your strengths, weaknesses, and areas for growth. Remember, no one is born perfect, but with effort, you can become exceptional. Success doesnt come by chance; it comes by change. Take charge of your change. Goal Setting: Define what success means to you and pursue it with unwavering determination. As the saying goes, Success is the progressive realization of a worthy ideal. There are no shortcuts. Mastering the Art of Reset : Life often demands a reseta reconfiguration of habits, mental strength, and approaches. To reset effectively. Reframe your perspective to focus on what you can control: attitude, effort, self-talk, and resilience. Develop resilience by embracing setbacks and turning them into learning opportunities. Stay present and practice mindfulness to enhance focus and clarity. Building a Robust Skillset : The 21st century offers a plethora of career opportunities beyond traditional roles like doctors, engineers, pilots, and teachers. Fields like data science, digital marketing, network operations, creative design, prompt engineering, media planning, content writing, blockchain development, cybersecurity analysis, UX/UI design, cloud computing, AI ethics consulting, and renewable energy management have opened doors for students from all academic backgrounds. Learning these skills is no longer tied to specific degrees; leverage the ocean of resources available today and expand your horizons with perseverance and the right mindset. Fail Early, Fail Often, Fail Forward Failure is not the antithesis of success; it is a stepping stone. To thrive in any career, embrace the mantra of "fail early, fail often, and fail forward." Failure fosters resilience and a growth mindset, allowing you to turn negative experiences into positive outcomes. Take risks, learn from your mistakes, and use them as a platform to propel forward. Bridging the Academic-Professional Gap The key to bridging this gap lies in determination and strategic planning Start Early : Do not postpone skill-building until after graduation or post-graduation. Begin alongside your academic journey. Remember, you are competing globally, and progresseven slow progressis better than stagnation. Continuous Learning : Acquire skills relevant to todays corporate demands. Practical knowledge, such as reasoning, critical thinking, coding, data analysis, communication, and leadership, will give you an edge. Mindful Differentiation : Identify what makes you unique. Success lies not just in what you do but in why and how you do it. Survival of the Fittest in the Corporate World Corporate success demands more than just a degree. While academic qualifications serve as a pass to enter corporate gates, your skillset is the key to unlock opportunities within. Companies like Microsoft encourage employees to ask critical questions: Could you do this better ? Could you do this more consistently ? Are you already doing this well and often ? Answering these questions honestly helps identify areas for improvement and mastery. The Bitter Truth With advancements in science and technology, human attention spans and emotional intelligence have drastically reduced. Todays corporate world demands undivided attention. Hiring standards have become more stringent, with selection ratios dropping to less than 1% from 10% in some cases. A study by Sarah Konrath revealed that college students in 1979 had 40% more empathy compared to todays students. Yet, empathy remains a key attribute for growth in both individuals and organizations. Does your school or college teach empathy and practical application of knowledge ? Most likely not. Even during your academic journey, surround yourself with the right people, avoid distractions, and stay focused. Remember, you are the sum total of the five individuals you closely associate with. Accountability and self-reflection are crucial. Ask yourself : Are you owning or avoiding responsibility ? Are you making progress or excuses? Are you being brave or blaming others? For you, if not yourself, who will take charge of your life? Conclusion: The Power of Determination Procrastination widens the gap between academics and professional success, but determination bridges it. By cultivating the right mindset, resetting perspectives, and building in-demand skills, you can navigate the challenges of this transition seamlessly. The path to success is not linear, but with the right approach, it is achievable. The writer is Associate Director Marketing Operations Certified in 100+ Skillsets, AIR Speaker, LinkedIn Contributor NEW DELHI, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Eight policemen and a driver were killed Monday after a vehicle they were traveling in was blown up by an improvised explosive device (IED) triggered by Naxals in the central Indian state of Chhattisgarh, police said. The attack took place on Bedre-Kutru Road in Bijapur district, about 442 km south of Raipur, the capital city of Chhattisgarh. According to police, the policemen belonging to District Reserve Guard were returning from an anti-Naxal operation when they came under the attack. Television footage showed a massive crater at the spot and pieces of the mangled vehicle scattered around, suggesting the intensity of the IED blast that killed the policemen. The attack came a day after five Naxals and a policeman were killed in a fierce gunfight between them inside the Abujhmarh forest area of Narayanpur district, about 192 km south of Raipur. Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao said the sacrifice of the policemen would not go in vain. "Security forces are working towards eliminating Naxals deep inside their heartland. The Naxals have carried out this attack in desperation and disappointment. This sacrifice of the policemen won't go in vain," Sao told media. Currently, Naxals are active across the central and eastern parts of India. New Delhi has deployed several companies of its paramilitary forces to take on Naxals in their strongholds. The insurgency reportedly has claimed hundreds of lives besides rendering thousands of inhabitants homeless. Anubrata Mondal has been reappointed as the chairman of the State Rural Development Authority (SRDA), a position he held continuously until 2019. After being released on bail in the cross-border cattle smuggling case, Anubrata Mondal had not been assigned any official post in the state government until yesterday. On Saturday, a fresh notification from Nabanna was issued stating that Anubrata Mondal has been appointed as the Chairman of the State Rural Development Authority (SRDA) with immediate effect. This post previously entitled Anubrata Mondal to a vehicle with fitted blue beacons and Z-Category security protection before his arrest by the CBI and subsequently by the ED. He was taken to New Delhi by the ED, and after two years, he was granted bail last year and released from Tihar Jail along with his daughter Sukanya Mondal. He has already been appointed as the chairman of the TMC Core Committee in Birbhum. Advertisement Mr Mondal was very close to TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, who was particularly impressed by his organizational skills. Along with Birbhum, he still oversees the organisation in two areas in East Burdwan district. CM Mamata Banerjee had appointed him as the chairman of the State Rural Development Authority in 2013. During his tenure in jail, the post remained vacant, and no one replaced him. With todays latest appointment, it seems that Kesto Mondal is slowly regaining power within the Trinamul Congress in Birbhum district. Advertisement The West Bengal government has received an alert from the central intelligence agencies of possible illegal infiltration by Bangladeshis using the coastal borders to take advantage of massive gathering at Sagar Island in South 24 Parganas district on the occasion of Gangasagar Mela. Following the alert, the Sundarbans district police, under whose jurisdiction Sagar Islands comes, had decided to ensure absolute security at the coastal entry points to the Gangasagar Mela Venue. Advertisement The two coastal entry points to Sagar Islands are Lot Number 8 of Kakdwip and Namkhana Chemaguri. A total of 13,000 police personnel will be deployed for Gangasagar Mela. Now after the central intelligence agency input, we have decided to give special security focus on these two coastal entry points to Sagar Islands, said a district police official. Advertisement Personnel of the coastal police division will be constantly patrolling the coastal waters adjacent to the Sagar Islands. The Indian Coast Guard will also be deployed during the Gangasagar Mela days. The Gangasagar Mela this time is scheduled to start on January 8 and the last day of the event is January 17. The time for a holy bath on the occasion of Makar Sankranti is scheduled from 6.58 a.m. on January 14 to the same time on January 15. The maximum turnout takes place during the period of the holy bath of Makar Sankranti. The district police official further said that a total of 1,150 CCTV cameras have already been installed at Sagar Island for the occasion. Besides ensuring the prevention of the illegal Bangladesh infiltrators, the target is also to ensure that the annual event this year is completed peacefully. That is why we are taking extra precautions this year. Generally, security measures are beefed up during the Gangasagar Mela days every year. However, this time some extra precautions are being adopted in wake of alerts that illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators might try to create trouble during the occasion amid the political crisis in the neighbouring nation, the official added. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is set to welcome 95 Indian fishermen who were handed over by the Bangladesh Coast Guard to the Indian Coast Guard on Sunday. Reports suggested that when Mamata Banerjee reaches Gangasagar on 6 January, she will personally greet the fishermen. As part of the gesture, each fisherman will receive Rs 10,000 and a shawl as a gift. The state government is showcasing its efforts in bringing them back home, and this initiative highlights that commitment, according to administrative sources. The fishermen were detained last October for allegedly entering Bangladeshs territorial waters, and their trawlers were also seized. Despite the passage of time, they could not return home. On Sunday, India and Bangladesh completed the reciprocal repatriation of 95 Indian fishermen detained in Bangladesh and 90 Bangladeshi fishermen held in India. The handover took place in the middle of the Bay of Bengal near the International Maritime Boundary Line. Arrangements have been made to accommodate the returning fishermen safely. Bankim Chandra Hazra, state Minister of Sundarban Affairs of West Bengal, and MLA Monturam Pakhira have been assigned the responsibility of welcoming them. When Mamata Banerjee arrives at Gangasagar on 6 January, she will greet the fishermen with Rs 10,000 and a shawl each. This initiative is being seen as a reflection of the state governments tireless efforts to bring them back. The delay in the return of the fishermen caused growing anxiety among families and authorities, especially amid strained IndiaBangladesh relations following incidents such as Sheikh Hasinas departure and the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna. Advertisement The news that the fishermen are set to return has brought joy to their families. Reports also confirm that the fishermen will return with their trawlers. India and Bangladesh on Thursday announced that they have agreed to release the fishermen in each others custody after they crossed the border, a move that came amid strain in their bilateral ties. The mutual exchange of fishermen and their vessels has been worked out, keeping in mind the primarily humanitarian and livelihood concerns of the fishing communities on both sides, a government statement said. Advertisement Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) should consider implementing mandatory hallmarking for silver and silver artifacts following consumer demands, said Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi. Speaking at the 78th BIS Foundation Day event, he said, There is a demand from consumers for hallmarking of silver. You (BIS) can deliberate and take a call. Notably, the government currently mandates hallmarking only for gold jewellery and artifacts, aimed at protecting consumer interests and ensuring product authenticity. According to the government data, over 44.28 crore articles of gold, jewellery/artefacts have been hallmarked so far. Advertisement The existing hallmarking system includes a unique six-digit alphanumeric code (HUID), which certifies gold purity. Hallmarking is the process of certifying the purity and quality of precious metals, such as gold and silver. It ensures that the metal meets the prescribed standards set by regulatory authorities. Advertisement At the event, the minister applauded the Bureau for its legacy and unwavering commitment to upholding the core values of quality, trust and excellence. He mentioned that BIS Quality Marks have become a symbol of trust across multiple sectors promoting agriculture, manufacturing and technology. On this occasion, BIS formalised collaborations with academic institutions such as IIT Tirupati, IIT Bhubaneswar, IIM Nagpur, NIT Warangal, and IIFT Delhi through Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) aimed at fostering innovation, improving industry practices, and advancing sustainable development goals. The Union Budget 2025-26 should continue to prioritise employment creation to harness Indias demographic dividend and propel economic growth, apex business chamber CII said on Sunday. It highlighted that the Union Budget for FY25 had outlined a series of initiatives to boost employment generation, including the Employment Linked Incentive Scheme. The forthcoming Budget could announce further measures to boost employment generation, the CII statement said. Advertisement India is now the worlds most populous country, boasting 1.45 billion citizens. With a median age of just 29 years, India is also a young country and is set to add 133 million people to its working-age population by 2050. Mass-scale employment generation is important to engage this young population productively, and to drive inclusive growth, CII said. Advertisement The business chamber has proposed an integrated National Employment Policy, which could subsume under its ambit, the slew of employment-generating schemes currently in works by various Ministries. In addition, the unified policy could also build on the single integrated employment portal National Career Service (NCS) wherein all the data can flow into this from various Ministries and State Portals. In this context, it is important to look at the development of the Universal Labour Information Management System (ULIMS) under NCS. This would provide information about employment opportunities and projections; job classification; skills demand; and training opportunities aligned with the projections. As part of its wish list for the Budget, CII has proposed a new section in lieu of section 80JJAA to encourage new employment. The new provision should continue as a Chapter VIA deduction from Gross Total Income which is available even if the taxpayer opts for a concessional tax regime. It can be made available to any taxpayer who carries on business or profession and is liable to tax audit. The deduction can be granted for the first three years of new employment with reference to the salary paid in the respective tax year but is subject to a ceiling of Rs 1 lakh per month, the statement said. CII has also sought targeted support for employment-intensive sectors such as construction, tourism, textiles, and low-skilled manufacturing. To boost exports from labour-intensive manufacturing sectors, which will lead to employment generation, tariff structures, and support through programmes like the Production /Employment Linked Schemes, and the Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) that India is entering, need to be synced, it added. Increasing womens participation in the workforce, which currently is low, can further boost the Indian economy. New initiatives, including the construction of dormitories using CSR funds, the formalization of sectors like the care economy, establishment of government-supported creches in industrial clusters, could be taken to Increase female labour force participation, CII said. According to CII, the government could consider, launching an internship programme in government offices in rural areas, for college-educated youth. This initiative would create short-term employment opportunities in government offices while bridging the gap between education and professional skills. Rolling out Labour Codes while ensuring Social Security coverage to the Gig and Platform workers would further strengthen the employment landscape, the statement added. CII has also urged the Government to consider setting up an International Mobility Authority under the Ministry of External Affairs. This authority could facilitate government-to-government collaborations to help Indian youth tap overseas employment opportunities. The authority could also work with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship to help develop skill development programmes aligned with global opportunities. CII Director General Chandrajit Banerjee said, Coupled with higher employment, India also needs to ensure that productivity goes up. Indias Incremental Capital Output Ratio (ICOR) needs to trend down from its present level of 4.1. The Union Budget could set up an expert committee to study this in greater detail and recommend measures on the way forward. Three active members of the Tillu Tajpuriya-Parvesh Maan gang have been arrested along with the seizure of firearms, Delhi Police said on Monday. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Outer North) Nidhin Valsan said the arrested were identified as Deepak, Ankit and Sagar. Deepak has a history of involvement in three criminal cases, including murder, extortion and Arms Act. Advertisement On Sunday, staff received a tip-off regarding the movement of Deepak and his associates, and the team immediately laid a trap near Holambi Khurd area, he said. Advertisement The suspects were later apprehended. Upon searching the individuals, police recovered one pistol and 14 live cartridges from Deepak, another pistol with two cartridges from Ankit, and a revolver along with 23 live cartridges from Sagar. During interrogation, Deepak revealed that he has been associated with the Tillu Tajpuriya-Parvesh Maan gang for years. He had been tasked with providing logistical support and supplying arms to facilitate the gangs activities, operating under instructions from jailed gang leaders. Ankit and Sagar are relatively new recruits for the gang, said the DCP. Lieutenant Governor (LG) VK Saxena has approved the notification of The Delhi Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Rules, 2024 by the Finance Department of DelhiGovernment. This initiative is in accordance with Section 38 of The Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Act, 2019. The rules have special provisions for Self Help Groups as advised by the Ministry of Finance, Government of India (GoI) and Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The notification of the rules will ensure that fraudulent schemes are not used by criminals to dupe hapless residents of their savings, the LG office said on Monday. Advertisement The GoI had enacted the Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Act, 2019, through a gazette notification dated 31st July, 2019, to establish a comprehensive framework aimed at prohibiting unregulated deposit schemes, except those conducted in the ordinary course of business, thereby protecting the interests of depositors, it said. Advertisement As per Section 38(1) of the Act, the State or Union Territory government, in consultation with the Central government, is required to issue rules to implement the provisions of the Act. On 29th October, 2020, the GoI forwarded copies of the Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Rules, 2020, and the Karnataka Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Rules, 2020, noting that the Karnataka government had developed these rules in consultation with the Ministry of Finance, incorporating suggestions from the Centre. The Central government urged the Delhi government to expedite the formulation of its own rules under Section 38 of the Act. In response, the Chit Fund Department drafted The Delhi Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Rules, 2021, based on the rules established by the Karnataka Government. This draft was reviewed by the Law Department which advised obtaining the opinion of the then LG as required by Clause (4) of Article 239AA of the Constitution. Approval from the LG was secured before forwarding the file to the Central government. The draft rules were subsequently submitted to the Ministry of Finance, GoI, under Section 38(1) of the Act. The Ministry provided minor drafting suggestions and confirmed that the proposed rules were in order, advising the GNCTD to finalise and notify them accordingly, the LG office said. BEIJING, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Guo Jiakun, the newly appointed spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, hosted a press briefing on Monday in Beijing. Born in August 1980 and of the Mongolian ethnic group, Guo is a member of the Communist Party of China. The foreign ministry officially established its spokesperson system in 1983, becoming the first government department in China to do so. The system has operated without interruption for 42 years and has become increasingly systematic, standardized and efficient. Notably, the foreign ministry remains the only government department in China to hold regular press conferences every working day. To date, the ministry has appointed 35 spokespersons, each dedicated to introducing and explaining the concepts, principles, and policies of China's diplomacy. Their efforts have consistently focused on safeguarding national sovereignty, security, and dignity, enhancing the understanding of China's diplomacy at home and abroad, and fostering friendly cooperation between China and other countries. The foreign ministry's spokesperson system has developed in tandem with the process of China's deepening reform and opening up, and it is in line with the trend of the times, the development trajectory of China's relations with the rest of the world, and the growing need for mutual understanding between China and other countries. Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva on Monday alleged irregularities in the construction of the controversial bungalow at 6 Flag Staff Road, citing findings from a 2022 Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report. He claimed that the project was dubiously declared an emergency necessity during its construction. Addressing a press conference, Sachdeva stated that the CAG report revealed the projects cost was initially set at Rs 7.91 crore, then raised to Rs 8.62 crore, and later inflated to Rs 33.66 crore without proper justification. He further alleged that the real expenditure on the bungalow remains unknown. Advertisement Sachdeva demanded a comprehensive audit, including the inventory created by the Public Works Department (PWD) on October 11, 2024, to determine the true cost of the former Chief Ministers official residence, which he estimated to be around Rs 7580 crore. Advertisement The BJP leader accused PWD officials of violating rules and laws to construct the extravagant house, dubbed Sheesh Mahal, and claimed it was far beyond the category assigned to the former CM. The PWD inexplicably declared this project an emergency and issued the work order on September 1, 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 crisis when employment was stalled, Sachdeva said. He alleged that costs were unjustifiably escalated under the guise of an emergency requirement. Sachdeva also highlighted concerns raised by the CAG regarding the appointment of project consultants, cost determinations, and subsequent cost hikes. Additionally, he pointed out that the bungalow was constructed without the approval of the Delhi Urban Arts Commission (DUAC) and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, as required by law. The BJP leader concluded by asserting that the lavish construction of the bungalow was a clear case of corruption, calling for a detailed investigation into the matter. Akshay Kumar is overjoyed as his niece, Simar Bhatia, prepares to make her Bollywood debut in 2025. The superstar shared his excitement with fans on Instagram, expressing his heartfelt emotions as he celebrated Simars milestone. In a touching post, Akshay reflected on his own early career, recalling the thrill of seeing his photo on a newspaper cover. Advertisement However, he shared that the joy of witnessing his nieces success surpasses that moment. He wished Simar Bhatia well, saying, Bless you my baby, the sky is yours. Advertisement Akshay also fondly remembered his late mother, imagining her pride in Simars achievement, and shared a newspaper clipping that announced her debut in the film Ikkis. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) The heartfelt post quickly caught the attention of fellow actors, with Huma Qureshi and Rakul Preet Singh offering their support in the comments. Rakul shared red heart emojis, while Huma affectionately referred to Simar as sim sim. Simar Bhatias debut film, Ikkis, is a war drama that tells the story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who posthumously received the Param Vir Chakra for his bravery. The film also stars Agastya Nanda, grandson of legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan, and veteran Dharmendra. Directed by Sriram Raghavan, the project is generating buzz for its compelling storyline and star-studded cast, though further details remain under wraps. Meanwhile, Akshay Kumar is gearing up for his own major release, Sky Force, ready to hit theaters on January 24, 2025. The high-octane thriller, releasing just before Republic Day, sees Akshay in the role of an Indian Air Force officer on a mission of vengeance after the tragic loss of several soldiers. The film promises intense aerial combat and gripping action sequences, highlighting the courage and sacrifice of Indian soldiers. Akshay joins debutant Veer Pahariya and Sara Ali Khan, who plays Veers wife, in this action-packed narrative directed by Sandeep Kewlani and Abhishek Kapur. An old video featuring Amitabh Bachchan has resurfaced on social media, where the actor humorously made a playful remark about actress Bipasha Basu. The behind-the-scenes footage is from Simi Garewals renowned chat show, Rendezvous with Simi Garewal, and shows Bachchan alongside his family membersson Abhishek, daughter Shweta, and wife Jaya Bachchan. Advertisement This particular segment dates back to the filming of the 2004 thriller Aetbaar, in which Amitabh starred alongside John Abraham and Bipasha Basu. At the time, John and Bipasha were reportedly in a relationship, and Big B played the role of Bipashas father in the movie. Advertisement In the viral footage, the Sholay actor humorously recounted an incident from the set when John had contracted conjunctivitis. While sharing this story with Simi, she teasingly warned the team to avoid touching anything Amitabh had touched, fearing they might catch the infection. Without missing a beat, Bachchan responded, saying, Maine toh kiya hi nahi kuch (I didnt do anything). He then added with a playful smile, Sari touching toh Bipasha karti hai, main thode na karta hun (Its Bipasha who does all the touching, not me). Last year, Simi Garewal shared this throwback video on her Instagram handle with the caption, Whats a little gossip among friends?! Rendezvous gems. Meanwhile, on the professional front, Amitabh was most recently seen in the film Vettaiyan, where he shared the screen with Rajinikanth, Fahadh Faasil, and Rana Daggubati. Directed by T. J. Gnanavel and produced by Subaskaran Allirajahs Lyca Productions, the action thriller centers around Rajinikanth as Athiyan, a seasoned police officer who unintentionally shoots and kills an innocent person during an encounter. The Piku actor will next be seen in Deepika Padukones upcoming film The Intern and also has the second part of Kalki 2898 AD in the lineup. Eight District Reserve Guard (DRG) personnel and the driver of their vehicle were killed in a Maoist ambush on the Kutru-Bedre road in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur district on Monday. The attack, which took place near Amboli village around 2:15 pm, involved a powerful IED blast followed by gunfire. The security team was returning from a joint anti-Maoist operation when their vehicle was targeted, Bastar Range IG P Sundarraj said. Advertisement According to reports, five other personnel were injured in the attack, with three reported to be in critical condition. The insurgents detonated the IED on a bridge, destroying the police vehicle and causing significant casualties. This attack underscores the challenges faced by security forces conducting operations in one of Indias most volatile regions. Advertisement The DRG team, which has played a crucial role in counter-insurgency operations in the Bastar region, was returning after a high-risk mission. This attack is believed to be a desperate attempt by the Maoists to retaliate against the increasing pressure from intensified security operations. Sources revealed that the Maoists fired on the security personnel following the explosion, exacerbating the tragedy. The injured were swiftly airlifted for medical treatment, while a combing operation has been launched in the area to track the attackers. The ambush highlights the persistent challenge posed by Maoist insurgents in southern Chhattisgarh, despite ongoing efforts by security forces to eliminate extremism. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has repeatedly emphasized the governments commitment to eradicating Maoist influence from the region by 2026. However, this attack underscores the rebels capacity to strike back, utilizing guerrilla tactics and the dense terrain to their advantage. Security forces have launched combing operations in the area to track down the perpetrators, with security forces vowing a strong response to this attack. This brutal act of violence reflects the Maoists frustration as security forces continue to dismantle their strongholds across Bastar. However, it also highlights the enduring challenges of counter-insurgency operations in the dense forests of Chhattisgarh. Alleging large-scale fraud in the BJP government in Uttar Pradesh, Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav said corruption is at its peak with loot at every level. In a statement on Monday, the SP chief lamented that the rate of every post and every position is fixed in the BJP government as corruption is happening in every department. There is no department where looting is not taking place. The chief minister is not a Yogi, but he is corrupt. The new face of the BJP government is corruption and organised loot, he added. Advertisement Akhilesh Yadav said in the 2027 assembly elections, only the successful meaningfulness of the wishes will be achieved by removing the BJP from power and forming a Samajwadi Party government for the welfare of the people and the development of UP. Advertisement He alleged a scramble in the BJP government for the spoils of corruption and loot. BJP MLAs and leaders are themselves making allegations of corruption and loot while nobody is immune from corruption. As a result, women, businessmen, farmers, youth, and the general public all are suffering. The SP chief further said that there was a huge resentment in the public against the BJP. The party conspires to influence the election process by manipulating the voter list and getting PDA votes deducted. They want to win the elections by rigging and conspiracy. He also accused the BJP government of neglecting the villages and farmers. Under the Lohia Gram Yojana in the Samajwadi government, roads, drinking water and other facilities were developed in thousands of villages, but due to malice, the BJP stopped all the schemes for the development of the villages, he alleged. Pointing out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had adopted Nagepur village of his Lok Sabha constituency Varanasi in 2016 but there has been no development in that village. He asked party leaders and workers to take a pledge to foil the conspiracies of the BJP. The booth has to be strengthened and the voter list has to be rectified by keeping a close eye on it. If the workers remain alert, the BJP will not be able to do rigging. We have to win the 2027 assembly elections at any cost in the interest of the state, he announced. In a significant breakthrough, Chhattisgarh Polices Special Investigation Team (SIT) has arrested Suresh Chandrakaar, a contractor and Congress worker, accused of masterminding the gruesome murder of journalist Mukesh Chandrakaar. The arrest, carried out late on January 5 in Hyderabad, was confirmed by the Bastar IG P Sundarraj, who shed light on the case that has sparked nationwide outrage and raised serious concerns about the safety of journalists in conflict zones. Mukesh Chandrakaar, 33, a journalist from Bijapur, was known for his fearless reporting on left wing insurgency and corruption in government projects. On January 1, 2025, he went missing. His mutilated body was discovered two days later in a sealed septic tank on Suresh Chandrakaars property in Chhatanpara locality. Advertisement The postmortem report detailed the sheer brutality of the attack- Mukeshs liver was torn into four pieces, five ribs were broken, his skull had 15 fractures, his heart was ruptured, and his neck was snapped. The doctor conducting the autopsy described it as one of the most gruesome murders they had encountered. Advertisement Mukeshs investigative work on corruption in Public Works Department (PWD) projects exposed irregularities in road construction contracts awarded to Suresh Chandrakaar. Sources reveal that the project costs were inflated from Rs 56 crore to Rs 112 crore, and payments were allegedly made for incomplete work. This expose is believed to have angered Suresh, who then plotted the journalists murder. Primary investigation suggests that on the night of the murder, an argument broke out during dinner. Sureshs brother, Ritesh, and supervisor, Mahendra, attacked Mukesh with iron rods, inflicting fatal injuries. His body was dumped in a septic tank and sealed with cement, while another accomplice, Dinesh, stood guard. The attackers also destroyed Mukeshs phone and the murder weapon. After the murder, Suresh fled Chhattisgarh, evading law enforcement agencies. The SIT, formed to probe the case, tracked his movements using over 200 CCTV footages and 300 mobile numbers. He was finally apprehended in Hyderabad. Authorities have frozen four of Sureshs bank accounts and demolished several illegal constructions linked to him. Despite the arrest, questions are being raised about the police investigation. Senior journalist Alok Kumar Putul, speaking to The Statesman, highlighted concerns about procedural lapses. There are reports that the crime scene was not sealed, and no forensic team was called to examine it. While its possible the police are maintaining confidentiality, presenting concrete evidence and reliable witnesses in court will be their biggest challenge, he said. These gaps in investigation have fueled skepticism over whether justice will prevail or if the case will falter due to weak prosecution. Chhattisgarhs Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap assured the public of swift justice. We are committed to ensuring that all accused, including Suresh Chandrakaar, are punished to the fullest extent of the law. Three accomplices have already been arrested, and we will leave no stone unturned to secure justice for Mukeshs family. The murder of Mukesh Chandrakaar has underscored the perilous environment in which journalists operate, especially in conflict zones like Bastar. His work exposed the nexus between corrupt officials and contractors, putting a spotlight on the lack of accountability in developmental projects in Maoist-affected areas. As the SIT continues to interrogate Suresh and investigate his financial and political connections, the case remains a litmus test for governance and the protection of press freedom in Chhattisgarh. Whether Mukeshs death will lead to systemic reforms or become another tragic statistic in Bastars troubled history, remains to be seen. The pressure is now on the police to build an airtight case that ensures conviction and sets a precedent for tackling corruption and violence in the region. As senior journalist Alok Kumar Putul aptly remarked, The arrest is just the beginning. The real challenge lies in proving the case in court and ensuring that justice is not just promised but delivered. The Congress on Monday announced the Pyari Didi Yojana under which it vowed to provide Rs 2,500 to every woman per month if the party comes to power in the upcoming Assembly elections in Delhi. Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar along with Congress Delhi in-charge Qazi Nizamuddin and partys Delhi unit chief Devender Yadav made the announcement of the scheme at the partys Delhi unit office in the city. Advertisement Addressing the media, Shivakumar, who is also the Karnataka Congress president said, We are launching the Pyari Didi Yojana. I am confident that the Congress government will come to Delhi. We are going to implement this Yojana on the first day of the Cabinet. Advertisement He said under the Pyari Didi Yojana, Rs 2,500 will be given to every woman per month as per the Karnataka model. Shivakumar said all the guarantees promised by the Congress prior to the Assembly elections, were implemented within three months after the party came to power in the state. Referring to the works of the Congress-led government at Karnataka, he said, Women in entire state are travelling free in buses, Rs 3,000 is being given to the unemployed youth, 200 unit of power has been given under Gruha Jyothi Scheme, and Rs 2,000 is being given to every women under Gruha Lakshmi scheme. Almost all women are being benefited. Delhi in-charge Nizamuddin said Pyari Didi Yojana is the first guarantee of Congress ahead of the Assembly polls. Pyari Didi Yojana is the first guarantee of Congress ahead of the polls. The Congress is committed for upliftment of every section of the society, he said. Attacking the BJP, he said, Everyone knows the false promises of the BJP, whether giving Rs 15 lakh in bank accounts, employment to the youths. But, the Congress party does not lie like the BJP. Where our government is there, we have been working for the betterment of every section of the people, especially the women. The Delhi Congress chief also vowed to implement the Pyari Didi Yojana after it comes to power in Delhi and added that the grand old party fulfilled all its guarantees in the states including Himachal Pradesh and Telangana after it rode to power in the respective states. BJP MLA Suresh Dhas has made a sensational allegation that a meeting to discuss an extortion deal in Beed was held between Maharashtra food and Civil Supplies Minister Dhananjay Mundes associate Valmik Karad and officials of a power company at Mundes official residence in the Beed district, in June 2024. He said on June 14, representatives of Massajog village sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh murder accused Valmik Karad and Akshay Urja company held a meeting at Mundes residence in Beed, where they finalised an extortion deal worth Rs 3 crore. Mundes personal assistant had also talked to some officials of the company, Dhas alleged. Advertisement Dhas made these allegations during a protest march held by a Maratha caste organisation called the Akhand Maratha Samaj in Pune on Sunday to condemn the murder of Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village in the Beed district, and the death of Dalit activist Somnath Suryawanshi in judicial custody following violence in Parbhani district. Advertisement The protest march began from Lal Mahal in the afternoon and ended at the Pune district collectors office. Murdered Massajog village sarpanch Santosh Deshmukhs family members, former Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan, NCP MP Bajrang Sonawane, BJP MLA Suresh Dhas, Maratha activist Manoj Jarange Patil and leaders of various other parties were present at the event. It may be recalled that Valmik Karad, the close aide of food and civil supplies minister Dhananjay Munde, was arrested last week after he surrendered before the state Crime Investigation Department (CID) in Pune in connection with the extortion case linked to the murder of Massajog village sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh. The BJP MLA from Beed said he has given the evidence to the police. Valmik Karad and his personal assistant use 17 mobile phones. The Beed superintendent of police and the CID IG can recover more evidence from these phones, Dhas said. Deshmukh was abducted, tortured and murdered on December 9, apparently because he tried to thwart an attempt to extort money from an energy firm operating a windmill project. Castigating Governor RN Ravi for walking out of the Assembly without reading the customary Governors Address at the beginning of the first session of the year, Chief Minister MK Stalin on Monday charged him with habitually transgressing the tradition of the legislature. The Governors action is childish and unbecoming of the high office he holds, the Chief Minister said in a post on his X handle. When he is not interested in carrying out his Constitutional duties, why should he cling to the post is the question before everyone, he added. Advertisement As per the Constitution, reading out the Government Address is a tradition of legislative democracy. Habitually, he is transgressing it. In the past, he had read them by guillotining some portions and adding some of his own. But, this time, he had left without reading it, which is childish, said the post. Insulting the people of Tamil Nadu and the government elected by them as well as the legislature with a century-old legacy, is unbecoming of the office he holds, it said further. Advertisement The allies of the DMK have pounced on the Governor for his disrespectful act. Functioning like a representative of a political party, he is creating hurdles for the government elected by the people, said Vaiko, MP, General Secretary of the Marumalarchi DMK (MDMK). Taking exception to the Governors conduct, the CPI(M) accused him of attempting to run a parallel government. The PMK, a constituent of the BJP-Led NDA, said the Governor should understand the sentiments of the people of Tamil Nadu. PMK president Anbumani Ramadoss, MP, also asked the government to accord due respect to the incumbent of the Raj Bhavan. The Madhya Pradesh High Court on Monday granted six weeks time to the state government to dispose of the Bhopal gas tragedy waste at Pithampur near Indore after clearing all doubts of the public and taking people into confidence. During hearing on the matter at Jabalpur, Chief Justice S K Kait and Justice Vivek Jain allowed six weeks to the state government to act on the waste disposal ensuring all safety guidelines. Advertisement State Advocate General Prashant Singh urged the court that the state government wants to take into confidence the public of Pithampur and to clear all doubts and fears from the minds of the people before incinerating the waste. Advertisement The state government also submitted in the court that various misleading and false rumours were in circulation regarding the waste and that was creating unwanted unrest and tension at Pithampur. Following that, the High Court restrained the print, audio and visual media from carrying any incorrect news on the matter. The High Court set the next date of hearing for 18 February. Later in the day, MP Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav said that the waste was transferred from Bhopal on the directives of the Supreme Court and the High Court. The CM pointed out that Pithampur is the only facility equipped to handle the disposal of such chemical waste. I am thankful to the High Court for accepting the state governments submission and allowing us time of six weeks for the waste disposal, the CM said. I want to assure everyone that our government will give top priority to the well being of the people. I also want to appeal to people not to get influenced by any rumours or fake news about the waste and its disposal, the CM averred. He said the state government would take all further necessary steps only in accordance with the courts directives and by ensuring all safety protocols. Earlier, the 358 metric tons of the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy waste, lying abandoned for 40 years inside the closed Union Carbide factory at Bhopal, was finally removed and transferred to Pithampur for incineration, by 12 container trucks on 2 January. The MP High Court on 3 December last year had set a four-week deadline to shift the toxic waste from the Bhopal factory. The waste has not yet been unloaded from the container trucks, which are parked inside the Ramky Enviro incineration facility at Pithampur. According to official figures, about 5,500 people were killed and five lakh were injured in the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, which occurred due to the leak of MIC (Methyl Isocyanate) gas from the Union Carbide pesticide factory in Bhopal on the intervening night of December 2 and 3, 1984. It is termed to be one of the worlds worst industrial disasters. This photo taken on Aug. 1, 2024 shows the headquarters of Intel in Santa Clara, California, the United States. (Photo by Li Jianguo/Xinhua) Though Trump's decision to side with Musk and Musk's backpedaling on the issue seemed to have cooled down the public dispute for the time being, the resilience of the Trump coalition drew more attention. NEW YORK, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- High-profile online clashes over the need for H-1B visas and a skilled-worker immigration program recently erupted between U.S. billionaire Elon Musk and President-elect Donald Trump's far-right supporters. Trump was caught between technology executives and his core nationalist base as the rift spilled into public view during the recent holiday week. Though Trump's decision to side with Musk and Musk's backpedaling on the issue seemed to have cooled down the public dispute for the time being, the resilience of the Trump coalition drew more attention. ESCALATING RIFT U.S. far-right activist Laura Loomer on Dec. 23 criticized Trump's choice of Sriram Krishnan, an Indian-American technology entrepreneur and investor, as his senior policy adviser on artificial intelligence. "It's alarming to see the number of career leftists who are now being appointed to serve in Trump's admin when they share views that are in direct opposition to Trump's America First agenda," Loomer wrote on X. Loomer pointed to Krishnan's previous support for removing some caps on green cards and easing the process for skilled foreign workers to come to the United States. The critique sparked a broader debate about immigration in the tech industry, which relies heavily on foreigners with technical skills to work in the United States under H-1B nonimmigrant status. Musk, who once held an H-1B visa and has relied on the program to employ thousands of Tesla employees, made a foray into the dispute by defending the tech industry's need to bring over workers from abroad. "The number of people who are super talented engineers AND super motivated in the USA is far too low," Musk wrote on X, adding that a "shortage of excellent engineering talent" is a "fundamental limiting factor in Silicon Valley." "The reason I'm in America along with so many critical people who built SpaceX, Tesla, and hundreds of other companies that made America strong is because of H1B ... I will go to war on this issue the likes of which you cannot possibly comprehend," said Musk in another X post. This photo taken on April 15, 2024 shows a view outside a Tesla store in San Mateo, California, the United States. (Photo by Li Jianguo/Xinhua) Steve Bannon, who served as chief strategist during Trump's first term, warned that Musk's "true colors" were showing in the debate. "H1B Visa Program Should be Zeroed-Out - Used to Constantly Drive Wages Down and Replace American Tech Workers - the Foreign Worker Replacements are Treated Like Indentured Servants ...," Bannon posted on X. TRUMP TAKES SIDES The battle that erupted on X between Musk and far-right factions over H-1B visas was dubbed by The Washington Post as a "MAGA civil war." Trump waded in to ease the tension between the two sides. "I have many H-1B visas on my properties. I've been a believer in H-1B. I have used it many times. It's a great program," Trump was quoted as saying by the New York Post on Dec. 28. However, Musk said the program was "broken" and in need of major reform in a Dec. 29 thread. Musk proposed raising the minimum salary for visa holders and adding a yearly maintenance fee to make it more costly to hire foreign workers than domestic ones. "I didn't change my mind. I've always felt we have to have the most competent people in our country, and we need competent people," Trump said on Jan. 2. Trump's public support for the H-1B visa left many confused, said Fox News host Rachel Campos-Duffy. While Trump's supporters continue to assert his victory and mandate, his fragile coalition appears to be fracturing even before he takes office, according to the Milwaukee Independent. A VITAL VISA The U.S. tech industry has long relied on foreign skilled workers to spearhead innovation, which is seen as one of the critical competitiveness of the country and a major driver of productivity growth. Research shows that H-1B workers complement U.S. workers, filling gaps in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields, and expanding job opportunities across the board, said American Immigration Council in a report published on Friday. The United States has currently maintained an annual cap of 65,000 H-1B visas, with 20,000 additional visas for foreign professionals holding a master's degree or doctorate from a U.S. institution of higher learning. California is by far the biggest user of the H-1B program. More than 9,600 employers in California sought clearance for at least one H-1B worker in fiscal 2024, with 78,860 visa applications for new and continuing employment being approved, according to data from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This photo taken on Aug. 1, 2024 shows the headquarters of Intel in Santa Clara, California, the United States. (Photo by Li Jianguo/Xinhua) The top 10 beneficiaries of H-1B visas in California were dominated by tech giants, most of them in the Bay Area, where Silicon Valley is located. The future of the H-1B program will likely continue to shape the U.S. tech sector and the broader national discourse on immigration policy. The Kerala High Court on Monday refused to order a CBI probe into the death of former Kannur Additional District Magistrate Naveen Babu. Dismissing a petition filed by late ADMs wife Manjusha, a single bench of Justice Kauser Edapagath directed the Kannur Deputy Inspector General ( DIG) to supervise the ongoing investigation of the Special Investigation Team( SIT). Advertisement The court said the SIT shall submit periodical reports to the DIG to show the progress of the investigation .The court also directed the SIT to inform the petitioner the progress of the investigation as contemplated under section 193(3)( ii) of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). Advertisement The court also directed the SIT to consider the grievances of the petitioner mentioned in the petition and look into the possibility of homicidal hanging. The court also said the SIT should file the final report only after it is vetted and approved by the DIG. Naveen Babus wife Manjusha filed the petition before the High Court seeking a CBI probe into the death of her husband, alleging that the present probe is not going in the right direction. Responding to the court order, Manjusha said, We are not satisfied with the court order. We will file and appeal against the single bench order. All the facts have been produced before the court. This is not the expected order. ADM Naveen Babu was found dead in his official quarters at Pallikkunnu in Kannur on the morning of October 15 last year. He allegedly took his life after facing public humiliation and corruption accusations made by P P Divya, then president of Kannur district panchayat, at a farewell meeting on October 14. P V Anvar, independent MLA from Nilambur, who was arrested and remanded in judicial custody for allegedly vandalising the District Forest Office (DFO), was granted bail by the Nilambur Judicial First Class Magistrate Court on Monday. While considering the bail plea of Anvar, the court rejected the prosecutions request for custody to question him for further investigation in the case and granted him bail with conditions . The conditions are that PV Anvar has to deposit Rs 50000 as bail amount and Rs 35000 for destruction of public property and he has to appear before the investigating officer every Wednesday etc. Advertisement Anvar is currently lodged in Thavanur Central Jail and he will be released after executing the bail order. Advertisement Anvar was arrested on Sunday night after allegedly leading a protest that resulted in vandalism at the forest office in response to a tribal mans death in Nilambur caused by an elephant attack. Anvar shared a note on Facebook after getting bail Dear ones, bail has been granted .Greetings to those who stood by me. See you in person Anvar wrote on Facebook. PV Anvar, who recently left the CPI-M)-led ruling Left Democratic Front(LDF), now leads a collective called the Democratic Movement of Kerala (DMK).On Sunday morning, DMK workers, led by Anvar staged a protest outside the District Forest Office(DFO) in Nilambur, following the death of a tribal man, Mani, in an Elephant attack. During the protest, around 10 DMK workers trespassed into the District forest office and vandalised the office room. They allegedly smashed the windows and doors of the Nilambur Forest Office.Anvar and several workers of DMK were booked under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act. In an unprecedented move, the police swiftly arrested Anvar at his residence at Othayi in Nilambur amid heavy public, media and police presence. Anvar was remanded for 14 days, and the police took him to the Central Jail in Thavanur, located 70 kilometers away. KPCC President K Sudhakaran MP has strongly criticized the arrest of Congress MLA PV Anvar, alleging a high-level political conspiracy behind the incident. He accused the police of displaying undue eagerness in arresting Anvar while turning a blind eye to similar incidents involving leaders from the ruling party. Opposition leader VD Satheesan said that the arrest of PV. Anwar at his house was a revenge politics by the CPI-M. The government is sending a message through Anwars arrest that anyone who opposes Pinarayi Vijayan and his gang of conspirators will face this fate.Former Opposition Leader Ramesh Chennithala also condemned the arrest, labeling it as an act of state terrorism. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday remotely inaugurated the Charlapalli Railway Terminal developed at the cost of Rs 413 crore to ease the congestion at Secunderabad, Hyderabad, and Kachiguda terminals. Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, who virtually participated in the event, urged the prime minister to sanction a regional ring rail network along the lines of the regional ring road, pointing out that such a railway network was necessary for Telanganas development since it does not have a port. Advertisement Inaugurating the new Charlapalli terminal station, Modi highlighted its potential to accelerate regional development by linking the Outer Ring Road. Advertisement This station connected to the Outer Ring Road, will significantly boost development in the region. This is a step forward in creating sustainable infrastructure, he added. He pointed out that the new terminal will ease the pressure on existing terminals in Secunderabad, Hyderabad, and Kacheguda, making travel more convenient for the people. The new terminal station, located on the Eastern side of Hyderabad, has modern amenities such as lifts, escalators, and solar-powered operations. It has a total of nine platforms, including four extra high-level ones. It has a spacious concourse area and two foot-over bridges along with a cafeteria, restaurants, and restrooms. Chief minister A Revanth Reddy used the opportunity to pursue the states pending projects like Hyderabad Metro Railway Phase II. He urged the Prime Minister to sanction a greenfield highway and a railway line between Bandar Port in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana which will facilitate industrial development through the setting up of a dry port and industrial parks for automobiles and pharmaceuticals. He also spoke about Vikarabad- Krishna railway line which will connect Telangana with Karnataka via Kodangal- the chief ministers assembly constituency. The chief minister said, I wanted to say thank you and at the same time I need these three-four issues (to be settled) for the development of Telangana. The Prime Minister is speaking about a $5 trillion economy, Telangana can contribute about $1 trillion to the economy and for this, the development of a railway network is necessary since there is no port connectivity We have only one request to the Prime Minister on behalf of the four-crore people of Telangana: if you grant this much, we will readily contribute towards a USD 1 trillion economy. While the Prime Minister and chief minister attended the event virtually, governor Jishnu Dev Varma, Union ministers G Kishan Reddy and Bandi Sanjay Kumar, state industry minister D Sridhar Babu and BJP leader Etela Rajender were present at the newly inaugurated terminal station. Amid detection of two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) from Karnataka, Union Health Minister J P Nadda on Monday categorically said it is not a new virus and there is no reason to worry. Referring to the HMPV virus, Nadda in a video said health experts have clarified that HMPV virus is not a new virus as it was first identified in 2001 and it has been circulating in the entire world since many years. Advertisement Informing that the HMPV spreads through the air by way of respiration, he said, This can affect persons of all age groups. The virus spreads more during the winter and the early spring months. Advertisement On recent reports of the cases in HMPV in China, the Health Ministry , the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) are keeping a close watch on the situation in China as well as in the neighbouring countries, the Health Minister said. Nadda said the World Health Organization (WHO) has taken cognizance of the situation and will share its report shortly with the Ministry. He stated that the country data for respiratory viruses are available with the ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) has also been reviewed and there is no surge in any of the common respiratory viral pathogens is observed in India. The Health Minister also informed that a Joint Monitoring Group meeting was held under the chairmanship of Director General for Health Services (DGHS) on 4th January to review the situation. The health systems and surveillance networks of the country remain vigilant, ensuring the country is ready to respond promptly to any emerging health challenges. There is no reason to worry. We are closely monitoring the situation, added Nadda. Earlier this morning, the Health Ministry informed that two cases of HMPV were reported from Karnataka. Both the cases detected were infants and they dont have any history of international travel. The National Security Guard (NSG) has taken charge to prevent potential terrorist threats at the Maha Kumbh Mela. Approximately 200 elite Black Cat commandos from the nations premier counter-terrorism force will be deployed at the event. As of Monday, two teams, each comprising 50 members, have already arrived and assumed their duties, sources confirmed. The teams were transported via helicopters and have commenced surveillance operations to ensure the safety of the fair. Advertisement With specific intelligence regarding potential terrorist threats, additional security measures have been implemented this year to avert any incidents. Advertisement In total, four NSG teams, each consisting of 50 commandos, will oversee security at the fair. These highly trained commandos specialize in neutralizing terrorist threats and are capable of conducting night operations and anti-drone missions. Officials highlighted that the NSG commandos come equipped with their own helicopters and are trained to neutralize enemies even without weapons. Additionally, the K-9 squad of the NSG will be deployed. Known for their dual capabilities, these trained dogs can detect and neutralize Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) within moments and assist in post-explosion analysis. In an attempt to showcase its avian treasures, Odisha government on Monday organized the fifth edition of Chilika Bird Festival to attract tourists and bird lovers to relish the rich biodiversity of the wetland sites of the lake. After Lake Victoria in South Africa, Chilika is widely regarded as the second largest bird lake in the world. The natural beauty of Chilika is further enhanced by the millions of birds flying in from different parts of the world, doubling its beauty during the winter. Advertisement Chilika, the largest saltwater lake in Asia, is rich in biodiversity. It was recognized as the first Ramsar site in the country in 1981. It is unique among the wetlands of the world. It is no exaggeration to say that the lake is the soul of state tourism. Chilika Lake has earned the distinction as the largest refuge for migratory birds in the Asian subcontinent. The congregation of more than 11.37 lakh birds of 187 species during the last winter added to the beauty of the picturesque lake, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, who attended the event as the chief guest, said. Advertisement While Chilika lake holds a special place in the world tourism map, it has become a bird pilgrimage since time immemorial due to its geographical location and favourable environment, she said, The chirping cacophony of millions of birds of various species is a sheer delight for the tourists visiting Chilika, especially in the winter season. These birds, coming from faraway Siberia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Central and Southeast Asia, Mongolia, America, Ladakh, Tibet and the Caspian Sea, enhance the natural beauty of Chilika. The mild climate of Chilika, the Nalavan in the middle of Chilika, is an excellent shelter to escape from the severe cold. Similarly, Mangalajodi, the bird heaven, is symbolic of a unique effort led by the local community. This festival is organized to take this event to the world and to develop and promote bird pilgrimage tourism destinations like Chilika, Satkoshiya, Bhitarkanika and Hirakud. All the participants of this festival are brand ambassadors for us, Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia, Minister for Forest said. From conservation work like eliminating poaching to publicity campaigns like the 5th National Chilika Bird Festival we are jointly trying to make Odisha Chilika, Satkoshiya, Bhitarkanika and Hirakud and other special places like them the most attractive bird centers in the Asia-Pacific region, he said. We have engaged the local boating community in this festival to promote responsible tourism practices and ensure their active participation in conservation efforts. The representation of bird lovers across the country makes the National Chilika Bird Festival a success, he added. Chilika Lake situated on the eastern coast is the largest wintering ground of the migratory birds in the Indian sub-continent. Not only the diversity, but also the sheer abundance of water birds makes Chilika a unique wetland in the entire country. Birds undertake annual migration to the lake by flying across continents in well-defined fly-ways. The Odisha Government, in a step towards establishing the State as a key aviation hub in India, on Monday hosted a high-level stakeholder consultation to deliberate on the development of Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities. Hosted by the Commerce and Transport Department, the stakeholders deliberated with the government focusing on innovation, infrastructure, and industrial growth to create a robust aviation ecosystem. Advertisement Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja chaired the consultation in the presence of Principal Secretary of the Department Commerce &Transport Usha Padhee. Advertisement The initiative brought together prominent industry players, including GMR Group, Star Air, Safran, Max Aerospace, Pritnee Aerospace, and the MRO Association of India, alongside senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The discussions centered on formulating an investor-friendly policy framework to establish Odisha as a preferred destination for MRO operators, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and airlines in the eastern region under the Industrial Policy Resolution (IPR) 2022. Odishas ambitious plans are to position itself as a global aviation hub by leveraging the strategic potential of Jharsuguda, Bhubaneswar, and Puri airports, Secretary Padhee said. Odishas competitive advantage lies in its position as an aluminium production leader, coupled with its strong industrial ecosystem, making it an ideal location for world-class MRO facilities. Through IPR 2022, we are committed to providing significant financial incentives, such as a 30 per cent capital subsidy for MRO investments, while fostering skill development programs to ensure a skilled workforce, she said. She also highlighted the states collaboration with the Government of Singapore to adopt global best practices in aviation and MRO operations, reinforcing Odishas international outlook. Our goal is to establish Odisha as a leader in Indias aviation industry. We are developing bespoke policies and offering substantial incentives, including skill development programs, to empower local talent and ensure sustained industrial growth. This initiative is a pivotal step towards achieving the vision of a Viksit Odisha, Chief Secretary Ahuja emphasised. With its strategic location, abundant resources, and progressive policies, Odisha is advantageously positioned to become a hub for MRO operators, OEMs, and airlines, further strengthening Indias aviation infrastructure. This initiative underscores the states commitment to fostering industrial growth, employment opportunities, and sustainability, paving the way for a globally competitive aviation ecosystem, added the top official. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met US National Security Advisor (NSA) Jake Sullivan here and they positively assessed the significant advancement in the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership over the last four years, especially in the key areas of technology, defence, space, civil nuclear, clean energy, semiconductors, and AI. Recalling his various meetings with US President, Joe Biden, including during his visit to the US in September last for the Quad Leaders Summit, PM Modi appreciated President Bidens contributions towards strengthening the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, which leaves an enduring legacy. Advertisement In a post on X, Modi said, It was a pleasure to meet the US National Security Advisor @JakeSullivan46. The India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership has scaled new heights, including in the areas of technology, defence, space, biotechnology and Artificial Intelligence. Look forward to building upon this momentum in ties between our two democracies for the benefit of our people and global good. Advertisement The PM deeply appreciated a letter from Biden handed over to him by NSA Sullivan. PM Modi reaffirmed his commitment to continue to deepen close cooperation between the two democracies for the benefit of the people of the two countries and for the global good. Modi conveyed his best wishes to President Biden and the First Lady Dr. Jill Biden. Earlier, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met Sullivan here. Sullivan was accompanied by a delegation of senior US government officials. The two NSAs have engaged regularly in a high-level dialogue through extensive discussions on a broad bilateral, regional and global agenda. Following the launch of the India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) by Prime Minister Modi and President Biden on the sidelines of the Quad Summit in Tokyo on 24 May 2022, the two NSAs have driven concrete initiatives between the two countries across a range of areas including Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, Semiconductors, Telecommunications, Defence and Space. The current visit gave them the opportunity to review ongoing progress in their high-level dialogue, including in diverse fields such as Defence, Cyber and Maritime Security. The US NSA briefed the Indian side on the updates brought out by the Biden administration to U.S. missile export control policies under the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) that will boost US commercial space cooperation with India. Reflecting the progress the United States and India have madeand will continue to makeas strategic partners and countries with a shared commitment to peaceful nuclear cooperation, Sullivan announced US efforts to finalize necessary steps to delist Indian nuclear entities, which will promote civil nuclear cooperation and resilient clean energy supply chains. The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) celebrations, all set to begin amid much fanfare in Bhubaneswar from 8 January, will provide Odisha an ideal opportunity to showcase what the state has to offer to the world in terms of its varied potential, said a senior official ahead of the event. State Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, who supervised the preparation of the mega event at the venue at the Janata Maidan in the city, said the State is well-prepared to welcome thousands of Non-Resident Indians and members of the Indian diaspora from across the world. Advertisement Odisha has a glorious history of age-old maritime connections with South-East Asia. The merchants, monks and travelers from Odisha have visited far-off places in South-East Asia. The maritime history of hoary past will be showcased in the event to attract NRIs participation for States overall economic growth, Advertisement The Bali Yatra and Odishas connections with Sri Lanka speak of these vibrant cultural ties. The PBD convention will illuminate these historical journeys and efforts underway to revive them. Besides, the three-day PBD celebrations in Bhubaneshwar from January 8 will showcase the vibrancy of the Indian diaspora and their achievements abroad. The venue of the PBD has been shifted to the Eastern part of the country for the first time by the Union Government. Such a step reinforces Centres commitment in taking forward its Purvodaya project, conceived for the all-round development of the Eastern region comprising states like Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal. The Centre through the Union Budget-2024 outlined the governments decision to formulate a plan titled Purvodaya to tap into the rich cultural traditions of the region to transform into economic hubs, in a bid to fasten the governments goal of Viksit Bharat. The hosting of 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Odisha is in line with the governments Purvodaya plan, which envisages a detailed and holistic roadmap for development of the region. Odishas rich reserve of minerals and natural resources will go a long way in taking forward this mission. The state leads all its counterparts in fields like mining, iron and steel manufacturing, marine economy, sports, skilling and even knowledge economy. Several Indian IT companies have established bases in the state. The Supreme Court on Monday posted for hearing on March 25 a batch of appeals against the Allahabad High Court order acquitting Surendra Koli a death row convict in 12 cases of rape and murder that took place in Nithari village, NOIDA bordering with Delhi in 2005/2006. A bench of Justice BR Gavai and Justice Augustine George Masih directed the top court Registry to summon the trial court records in other connected matters expeditiously and supply its copies to the advocates appearing in the matter. Advertisement On July 8, 2024, the top court had issued notice on a plea by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) challenging the Allahabad High Courts acquitting Surendra Koli. While issuing notice, the court had tagged the CBIs plea along with other pending matters relating to the cases. Advertisement The Uttar Pradesh government and Pappu Lal, father of one of the victim girls too have approached the apex court challenging the state High Courts order of acquitting businessman Moninder Singh Pandher and Koli in 2005/2006 killings. Koli was the domestic help of the businessman Maninder Singh Pandher and stayed at his house where the alleged killings took place. In the course of the July 8, 2024, hearing, the Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the CBI argued that Koli was a serial killer who used to lure young girls and kill them.The SG had said that the killings were gruesome and there were accusations of cannibalism and the trial court had awarded the death penalty to Koli, but the same had been reversed by the Allahabad High Court. The Allahabad High Court in October, 2023, had acquitted Pandher and his domestic help Surendra Koli in some of the cases concerning the Nithari killings and overturned the death penalty imposed on them by the trial court. It had acquitted Koli in 12 cases and Pandher in 2 cases, where they were earlier held guilty for murder and awarded the death penalty by the trial court in these cases. The CBI had registered 16 cases against Koli and Pandher over rape and killing of girls that had shocked the nation.The case came to public attention in December 2006 when skeletons were discovered in a drain near a house in Nithari village, Noida. Pandher was the owner of the house and Koli was his domestic help. Koli was made accused in all of the cases on various charges including murder, abduction, rape, and the destruction of evidence. However, Pandher was named in six of them. Koli was convicted of committing multiple rapes and murders of various girls and was sentenced to death in more than 10 cases. MEXICO CITY, Jan. 5 (Xinhua) -- At least five people were killed after armed people opened fire in a bar in Villahermosa, capital of Mexico's southeastern Tabasco state, state authorities confirmed Sunday. Following the incident on Saturday night, "state and federal forces have deployed an operation to search for those responsible for the murder by gunfire of five people" in the bar in Villahermosa's Tamulte neighborhood, state government spokesperson Fernando Vazquez Rosas told reporters. The spokesperson said seven people were also injured in the shooting, and an investigation has been launched. Tabasco has seen a rise in homicides since December 2023, showed official data. Touching a new low in the relationship between the DMK Government and the Raj Bhavan, Governor RN Ravi boycotted the Assembly, leaving the House in a huff in protest against the national anthem not being sung at the commencement of the session on Monday morning. In the Tamil Nadu Assembly, it is customary to sing the Thamil Thai Vazhthu (invocation to Mother Tamil) at the beginning of the session and the National Anthem at the conclusion. On his arrival at the House, Ravi asked that the national anthem be sung at the beginning itself. But, Speaker M Apppavu commenced the session with the singing of the invocation to Tamil. Advertisement A visibly upset Governor left the House in a huff within three minutes of his arrival. Earlier, he was given a ceremonial guard of honour and the Speaker received him with a bouquet. It is customary for the Assembly to commence the first session of the year with the Governors address, prepared by the Government. Advertisement This is the second time that Ravi had boycotted the Assembly in the first session of the year. Last year, he skipped certain paragraphs, which eulogized Dr BR Ambedkar and Dravidian icons Periyar, CN Annadurai and late DMK Patriarch M Karunanidhi. He also spoke extempore, which drew instant condemnation from Chief Minister MK Stalin. Explaining the reason for the Governors boycott, the Raj Bhavan in a hard hitting X post said, The Constitution of Bharat and the National Anthem were once again insulted in the Tamil Nadu Assembly today. Respecting the National anthem is among the first Fundamental Duty as enshrined in our Constitution. It is sung in all the state legislatures at the beginning and the end of the Governors address. Today on the arrival of the Governor to the House, only Tamil Thai Vazhthu was sung. Governor respectfully reminded the House of its Constitutional Duty and fervently appealed to the Honble Chief Minister who is Leader of the House and the Honble Speaker for singing the National Anthem. However, they cussedly refused. It is a matter of grave concern. Not to be a party to such brazen disrespect to the Constitution and the National Anthem, Governor in deep anguish left the House, said the post, justifying the boycott. The Union Health Ministry on Monday informed that two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) were reported from Karnataka. Both the cases detected were in infants and they dont have any history of international travel. Advertisement In a statement, the Health Ministry said, There have been media reports of some HMPV cases detected in Karnataka. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has detected two cases of HMPV in Karnataka. Advertisement Both cases were identified through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens, as part of ICMRs ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses across the country, it said. Emphasising that HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and cases of respiratory illnesses associated with HMPV have been reported in various countries, the Health Ministry said, Based on current data from ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) network, there has been no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases in the country. Giving details of the patients, the Health Ministry said a three-month-old female infant was diagnosed with HMPV after being admitted to Baptist Hospital, Bengaluru with a history of bronchopneumonia. She was discharged. An eight-month-old male infant, who tested positive for HMPV on January 3 after being admitted to Baptist Hospital, Bengaluru, with a history of bronchopneumonia. The infant is now recovering, it said. The Health Ministry said neither of the affected patients have any history of international travel. We are monitoring the situation through all available surveillance channels. ICMR will continue to track trends in HMPV circulation throughout the year. The World Health Organization (WHO) is already providing timely updates regarding the situation in China to further inform ongoing measures, it said. The Health Ministry said the recent preparedness drill conducted across the country has shown that India is well-equipped to handle any potential increase in respiratory illnesses and public health interventions can be deployed promptly if needed. Anura Kumara Dissanayakes meteoric rise to the presidency in Sri Lanka has been followed by a sobering realisation: the promises made during a campaign in the heat of a national crisis are far easier to make than to keep. Now several months into his tenure, Mr Dissanayake is facing the difficult task of balancing the immediate needs of his people with the longterm structural reforms necessary to guide the country out of its economic collapse. His administration, which swept to power with overwhelming support, is already under intense pressure to deliver on the lofty expectations of voters. However, economic recovery is proving to be a far more complicated challenge than anyone anticipated. Before Mr Dissanayake assumed office, Sri Lanka was reeling from its worst economic crisis in modern history. Public anger over soaring costs and shortages of essential goods had led to widespread protests, culminating in the ousting of his predecessor, Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Voters were desperate for a leader who would break the old political cycle of corruption and mismanagement. Mr Dissanayakes promises to re-negotiate Sri Lankas bailout deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) were central to his campaign. The previous governments austerity measures, including tax hikes and cuts to energy subsidies, had angered the public. Advertisement However, upon assuming office, Mr Dissanayake found that the nations fragile economy could not afford any more shocks. In a swift reversal, he abandoned his campaign promise to alter the IMF terms, recognising that maintaining economic stability was paramount. This was a sobering reminder that governance in times of economic crisis often involves painful compromises. One of the critical tests of Mr Dissanayakes leadership is how he manages Sri Lankas international relations, particularly with neighbouring India. His recent visit to New Delhi signaled a pragmatic shift in foreign policy. With Chinas increasing influence in Sri Lanka, especially through strategic infrastructure projects, India has grown weary of its neighbours tilt towards Beijing. Advertisement Mr Dissanayakes assurance to India that Sri Lanka would not allow its territory to be used against Indian interests was a vital diplomatic move. India, in return, has promised to supply liquefied natural gas to Sri Lanka and support long-term energy cooperation ~ a crucial lifeline for an island heavily dependent on energy imports. Despite these efforts, the challenges at home remain immense. The IMF deal, while crucial for securing international financial assistance, has not alleviated the daily struggles of the people. Mr Dissanayake must find a way to balance the urgent need for economic reforms with the political necessity of providing tangible relief to his citizens. As Sri Lankas economy inches towards recovery, the path Mr Dissanayake chooses will determine whether his administration can navigate the complex web of domestic demands and international pressures. His visit to India has demonstrated his awareness of the geopolitical stakes at play, but his success in implementing meaningful reforms at home will be the true test of his leadership in the months ahead. In the summer of 1991, in his first budget speech as Indias Finance Minister, when Dr Mannmohan Singh presented his economic vision to rescue Indias faltering economy, it became clear that it was no ordinary moment. With a calm conviction, he spoke of structural reforms to resurrect the economy, of dismantling barriers that had shackled Indias growth for long, and of opening the doors to a new future. Then, as he concluded his speech, his voice carried the weight of history and hope ~ Let the whole world hear it loud and clear. India is now wide awake. We shall prevail. We shall overcome. Little did the nation know that these words would echo across decades, marking not just the transformation of its economy but also a deep and lasting shift in its political and social landscape. The India of 1991 was a nation on the brink, teetering under the weight of fiscal profligacy and a massive trade deficit. Foreign exchange reserves dwindled to levels barely sufficient to cover a fortnight of imports, forcing the country to airlift gold reserves to secure emergency loans from international lenders. Advertisement Decades of economic overregulation under the License Raj, a labyrinthine system of permits and quotas, had created an economy where scarcity became the norm and entrepreneurship was viewed with suspicion. Such economic malaise reflected a deeper political problem ~ the state-controlled economy had created a political culture where electoral success meant promising more government control, more subsidies, and more protectionism. Singhs reform proposals were revolutionary in both economic and political terms. By dismantling industrial licensing, slashing tariffs, welcoming foreign investment, and allowing the rupee to find its market value, he challenged the fundamental premise of post-independence Indian politics ~ that the state must dominate economic life. Advertisement Though widely seen as a reserved technocrat, Singhs political genius lay in how he positioned these changes. Quoting Victor Hugo ~ No power on earth can stop an idea whose time has come ~ he framed liberalization not as submission to Western pressure but as Indias destined path to becoming a global economic power, providing crucial political cover for future reformers across party lines. This was significant because it allowed regional parties and opposition leaders to gradually embrace aspects of economic liberalization without appearing to abandon their socialist credentials. The success of these reforms reshaped political reality. As Indian companies became globally competitive and a genuine middle class emerged, political discourse evolved. New industries, urban migration, and technological transformation changed the narrative. By the early 2000s, elections focused increasingly on governance, infrastructure, and economic growth. State leaders like Narendra Modi in Gujarat and Chandrababu Naidu in Andhra Pradesh built their political brands around development rather than traditional welfare politics, exemplifying the changed political economy Singh had architected. His most enduring impact was establishing the reform consensus. While parties across the political spectrum continue to debate the pace and specifics of economic liberalization, no major political formation today advocates returning to the pre1991 model. For example, even when the BJP government repealed farm laws in 2021, it was presented as a tactical retreat rather than an ideological rejection of market reforms. This consensus has survived multiple political cycles and economic crises, demonstrating how deeply Singhs ideas have become embedded in Indias political DNA. Singhs tenure as Prime Minister (2004-2014) provides another perspective on his political influence. He led the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) coalition and presided over unprecedented economic growth, benefiting from the global boom of the early 2000s. His administration introduced landmark social welfare policies, including MGNREGA and the RTI Act, reflecting his commitment to inclusive growth. However, this period also revealed the challenges of his leadership style. His quiet, technocratic approach often clashed with coalition politics, leading critics to label him a reluctant politician who struggled to assert authority amid competing interests, particularly during the corruption scandals of his second term. Yet Singhs understated approach had distinct advantages. Unlike many populist lea ders, he never sought to cultivate a personality cult, focusing instead on creating lasting institutions and frameworks. This humility, while making him poli tically vulnerable, enabled profound systemic changes. For example, the implementation of GST, the bankruptcy code, and direct benefit transfers across different governments demonstrates how his initial reforms created a foundation for further institutional evolution ~ chan ges unthinkable in the pre-1991 era. Perhaps most significantly, Singhs reforms redefined the relationship between business and politics in India. Pre-1991, this relationship was characterized by rent-seeking and patronage. The dismantling of the Licen se Raj forced a fundamental reset, gradually replacing the old patron-client relationship with a more transparent, market-oriented interaction. This shift, though incomplete, initiated a long-term process of reducing political corruption and crony capitalism, even as it created new challenges in regulating corporate influence in politics. Manmohanomics transformed what was politically possible in India. Before 1991, advocating market reforms meant political suicide; today, promising economic growth and development is essential for political success. Today, Chief Ministers compete to attract investment, politicians across the spectrum discuss ease of doing business, and election manifestos promise start-up funds and innovation hubs. This transformation required his unique combination of economic expertise, political acumen, and personal integrity to convince a skeptical nation that embracing markets didnt mean abandoning social commitments. As India continues its development journey, future generations of political leaders will build on the foundations Singh laid, whether they acknowledge it or not. He demonstrated that governance transcends charisma, requiring instead the patient building of institutions and frameworks that outlast individual leaders. His legacy lies in understanding the delicate interplay between economics and politics, creating policies that not only transformed Indias economic landscape but fundamentally reshaped its political future. Through his leadership, he proved that good economics could be good politics, and that fundamental change was possible while preserving democratic values and social harmony. The writer is Assistant Professor (Economics) at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ranchi, and can be reached at: amarendu@iimranchi.ac.in. Views are personal Swami Vivekananda, one of Indias foremost spiritual leaders, left an indelible mark on humanity through his profound teachings and vision for a better world. His ideas, rooted in ancient Indian wisdom, remain highly relevant in the modern era, offering solutions to the challenges of the 21st century. From personal development to societal transformation, his teachings continue to inspire individuals and guide nations toward progress and harmony. In a world increasingly divided by religious, cultural, and ideological differences, Vivekanandas call for universal brotherhood and interfaith harmony serves as a beacon of hope. At the 1893 Parliament of the Worlds Religions in Chicago, his groundbreaking address emphasized the unity of all religions and the need for mutual respect. He asserted that all paths lead to the same divine truth, urging humanity to rise above petty sectarianism. His proclamation, We believe not only in universal toleration but we accept all religions as true, remains a clarion call for global harmony. Today, as conflicts fuelled by intolerance persist, his message underscores the importance of dialogue, understanding, and coexistence among diverse communities. His vision challenges individuals and societies to embrace diversity and build bridges of compassion and understanding. Swami Vivekananda regarded youth as the backbone of a nations progress. He believed in the immense potential of young minds and urged them to cultivate self-confidence, discipline, and a sense of purpose. Advertisement His famous exhortation, Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached, continues to resonate with young people striving for excellence in various fields. He envisioned the youth as torchbearers of change, capable of transforming society through their energy, idealism, and innovation. In an age marked by distractions and uncertainties, his teachings inspire the youth to harness their energy constructively and contribute meaningfully to society. His emphasis on moral courage and ethical behavior further equips young people to address the challenges of modernity with integrity and resilience. Vivekanandas vision of education extended beyond mere academic learning. Advertisement He advocated for a holistic approach that nurtures character, moral values, and the spirit of inquiry. According to him, Education is the manifestation of the perfection already in man. He emphasized that true education empowers individuals to face lifes challenges with courage and wisdom. In the modern scenario, where education often prioritizes rote learning and material success, his perspective encourages a balanced system that fosters intellectual, emotional, and spiritual growth. His call for blending ancient wisdom with modern knowledge provides a framework for creating an education system that not only imparts skills but also instils values such as empathy, perseverance, and self-awareness. By aligning education with the holistic development of individuals, his teachings lay the groundwork for a society that values both competence and compassion. In the fast-paced modern world, many individuals experience stress, anxiety, and a sense of emptiness despite material success. Vivekanandas teachings on spirituality provide a roadmap for achieving inner peace and fulfilment. He urged people to discover their true selves through meditation, selfless service, and devotion. His philosophy harmonizes spiritual and material pursuits, offering a way to lead a meaningful and balanced life. He reminded humanity of the inherent divinity within each individual, encouraging self-belief and the pursuit of higher ideals. His concept of Practical Vedanta, which advocates applying spiritual principles in daily life, equips people to transcend mundane struggles and achieve a sense of purpose and connection with the universe. Vivekananda was a staunch advocate for the empowerment of women, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping society. He called for the education and upliftment of women, asserting that no society could progress without their active participation. His profound respect for womens potential is evident in his words: There is no chance for the welfare of the world unless the condition of women is improved. In todays world, where gender equality remains a pressing issue, his teachings inspire efforts to dismantle patriarchal structures and promote inclusivity. He championed the idea of women as the custodians of culture and morality, urging them to pursue education, independence, and self-realization. His forwardthinking views serve as a guide for fostering a more equitable society where women can contribute fully and freely. While Swami Vivekananda was a passionate advocate for Indian culture and heritage, he also envisioned a world united by shared values. He encouraged Indians to take pride in their roots while embracing global perspectives. His statement, Each nation has a message to deliver, a mission to fulfil, a destiny to reach, reflects his belief in the unique contributions of every culture to global progress. This dual vision of nationalism and global citizenship is particularly relevant in the era of globalization, where fostering cultural identity and global collaboration are equally important. His teachings inspire nations to strike a balance between preserving their traditions and participating in the global exchange of ideas and innovations. Service to man is service to God, Vivekananda declared, emphasizing the importance of selfless service. His call to alleviate suffering and uplift the marginalized aligns with the principles of modern social justice movements. In an age of growing inequality and environmental crises, his teachings inspire individuals and organizations to work toward a more equitable and sustainable world. He urged humanity to adopt a sense of responsibility toward the less fortunate and to engage in actions that benefit society as a whole. His idea of service transcends charity, advocating for empowerment and systemic change that address the root causes of inequality. Swami Vivekanandas teachings transcend time and geography, addressing the fundamental issues of human existence. His vision of a harmonious world, empowered individuals, and enlightened societies remains a guiding light in the modern scenario. By embracing his ideals of universal love, self-realization, and selfless service, humanity can navigate the complexities of contemporary life and build a future rooted in peace, progress, and unity. His timeless wisdom invites every individual to rise to their highest potential and work collectively for a world where dignity, compassion, and understanding prevail. (The writer is a Thrissur-based contributor.) The diverse nature of these communities has had an impact on many art genres, including folk and tribal art. Some of the most well-known tribal art types in India are Warli, Gond, Bhil art from Madhya Pradesh, Santhal art, Madhubani paintings from Bihar, Pithoro paintings from Gujarat, and Saora paintings from Odisha. Many art styles, including folk and tribal art, have impacted traditional Indian arts and crafts. While many are known around the world, Gond Adivasi Chitrakala deserves special mention. These tribal art forms are ethnic in nature and are primarily practiced tribal art forms are ethnic in nature and are primarily practiced by tribe members. They feature distinct, colourful motifs that frequently portray tales and traditions from their culture, traditions, and beliefs. Im going to talk about Gond tribal art from India. The word Gond is derived from Kond, which means green mountains, and tribal people are known as Gondis since they primarily live in Madhya Pradeshs beautiful green mountains. While Gond art has a long history dating back to nearly 2,000 years ago. This indigenous art forms popularity stems from its uncanny depiction of nature and culture through abstract themes, vibrant colours, and meticulous details. Gond Adivasis are thought to be gifted with the capacity to express their creativity via arts and crafts. While travelling to Mandla, I learnt that the Gonds are one of the worlds largest tribal tribes. They are not only found in Madhya Pradesh but also in Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Odisha. The tribe thinks that seeing a positive and pleasant image offers them good luck and optimism. They believe that gods dominate the earth, sea, and air. Most celebrations feature music and dances to commemorate natural disasters and gods. Dances, such as those performed by Dandari performers, can retell folklore events. The art began as wall decorations for the Gond peoples mud dwellings. The late Jangarh Singh Shyam is regarded as a pioneer of Gond art, having brought the art style to international prominence. By the 1980s his Gond artworks had been presented in numerous national and international galleries. He was from Patangarh. Bhajju Shyam, regarded as the first Gond artist and Padmashree awardee, began his studies as a kid under the late Jangarh Singh Shyam. Advertisement Themes in Gond paintings Advertisement The themes and motifs of Gond painting are drawn from local flora and fauna, deities and urban culture. The theme of paintings is mostly drawn from folktales and Gond mythology; therefore, these paintings are not mere decorations but also instant expressions of their religious sentiments and devotions. Gond paintings portray the Pradhan Gond communitys culture, traditions, folklore, and daily life in Patangarh village, Madhya Pradesh. Gond paintings mainly depict the following subjects: As forest residents, the community is inextricably linked with nature, which is eventually expressed through exquisite art creations. Nature, including pictures of peacocks, birds, crabs, mythical beasts, lizards, lions, tigers, deer, snakes, wild boars, cows, monkeys, elephants, horses, fish, horses, birds, tortoises, etc. It is not only prominent in their art but also regarded as auspicious by the Gond society, from Dumar to Babul tree. Mahua Tree as Tree of Life. Mahua flowers, fruits, seeds, and leaves are used for many purposes by the Gond tribe. Myths, legends, and aspects of the daily life of Gond people. It is interesting to note that, unlike Hindu gods and goddesses, deities depicted in Gond paintings are not characterised by a definite form but are placed beneath a tree with a painted stone. Hindu gods such as Lord Shiva, Lord Krishna, Lord Ganesha, Phulvari Devi (Kali), Jalharin Devi (River Goddess), Marahi Devi, etc. Members of the Pradhan community, a subgroup of Gonds, are thought to be the art forms flag bearers. They were also thought to be storytellers, which is why many Gond paintings depict mythological stories/figures and historical events related to their culture. The central theme of Gond paintings is nature. Gond artists portray nature in various ways in paintings. Objects like charcoal, coloured dirt, plant sap, leaves, and even cow dung are used to create the colours. Paintings are created by layering dots in upward, downward, and sideways directions to generate final images. The present-day Gond paintings have evolved from Digna and Bhittichitra. Digna is a traditional geometric pattern on the walls and floors of the houses. Bhittichitra is painted on the walls of houses, and these paintings include images of animals, plants and trees. Use of vivid colours and their natural sources are mentioned below. Black: Black colour is made from charcoal. Yellow: Yellow colour is made from Ramraj soil. White: White colour is made from chui soil. Red: The red colour is obtained from geru soil. Green: Light green colour is made from cow dung, and dark green colour is made from bean leaves. Gond artists are now using synthetic colours such as acrylic colours, poster colours, and oil paints as they are readily available in the market. Each Gond artist uses his own distinctive pattern and style to fill the images. These distinctive patterns are called signature patterns. Some of the patterns used in Gond paintings are: Dots Fine lines Curved lines Dashes Fish scales Drops of water Seed shapes Geometrical shapes, etc. Products made with Gond painting Artisans produce a wide range of hand-painted goods, including: Paintings Wall art Sarees Kurtis, dupattas and stoles Handbags Trays boxes Coasters Home decor From then till now While Gond art has a long history, modern artists are giving it a modern twist. Modern forms of Gond art include vibrant topics or objects that appear to be in motion, such as cars, aeroplanes and ancient architecture. Artists like Japani Shyam, Rajender Shyam, Mayank Shyam and Bhajju Shyam have garnered international reputations for their ability to integrate modernism with the tribal character of Gond art. Most Gond painters have transitioned from painting on mud walls to canvas. Artists have begun to replace charcoal, mud, and vegetable colours with acrylic, modernising the patterns while using traditional motifs. Initially, traditional motifs did not include human forms, but artists have begun to paint faces in Adivasi traditions. Authorities took the following steps: The iconic Gond paintings earned a GI tag in April 2023, marking an important milestone in the art forms history. With the assistance of the authorities and the execution of programs such as the National Rural Livelihood Mission and the National Urban Livelihood Mission, Gond artists are now able to provide a sufficient income for their families. The Madhya Pradesh government established Bharat Bhavan in Bhopal, which has since become one of the countrys most important art centres and museums. Tourists enjoy the beautiful Gond paintings on display at the Bhavan. A Gond painting can sell for anything from a thousand rupees to millions of rupees, depending on the complexity of the piece and the materials utilised. Its fascinating to follow the evolution of the art form from village walls and mud dwellings to international galleries and the global art market. Exhibitions promoting the art rich with a blend of colour, patterns, mystery and humour, these tribal artworks brilliantly depict the premodern psyche. There have been even exhibitions of Gond paintings, thereby granting a strong platform for these artists to showcase their creativity via these paintings. Other than this, the popularity of these paintings has been to an extent that the artists also receive orders from abroad countries. Visit Patangarh village in Madhya Pradesh to see these beauties being created by the Gond community. The march of Hindu nationalists in Meghalaya picked up pace after 1985. The RSS began working with the Garos, Jaintias, and Khasis, as well as the Hajong and Koch communities, which are tribes from the plains. Seva Bharati organises medical camps and provides educational aid. Today, Sangh outfits run medical camps in more than a thousand villages in Meghalaya. They also operate more than fifty schools in each of the eleven districts in the state. Just in Shillong, there are fourteen RSS organisations operating, including Seva Bharati, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Samiti, ABVP, Sanskar Bharati, Seemanta Chetna Manch, VHP, and Purva Sainik Parishad. Advertisement The RSS has its own activities and runs community programmes in the Jaintia, Khasi, and Garo Hills. In Shillongs Laitumkhrah, the local church head recently hoisted the saffron flag at an RSS function. Local swayamsevaks say that while the church leaders may not agree with the Sanghs ideology, they have a healthy respect for its social work. Advertisement Additionally, they appreciate the importance the RSS gives them. Every local Christian leader loves being the chief guest. That is how we get them to our functions and open lines of communication, says Pratham. One of the Sanghs biggest challenges in Meghalaya is that the indigenous people lack many nationalistic icons to celebrate. This may be due to their reliance on oral traditions to pass down stories of valour and patriotism. The absence of literature and documentation makes it easier for imperialists and evangelists to erase stories of indigenous pride and identity. However, three individuals stand out. The first is U. Kiang Nangbah, a Khasi freedom fighter who waged a guerrilla war against the British and led an uprising. He spearheaded the local resistance in the Jaintia Hills against the imposition of British taxes and the establishment of a police station in the area. The tipping point came in Yalong when the British police confiscated weapons intended for a traditional dance called Pastieh Kaiksoo and burned them in a bonfire as the locals watched helplessly. Nangbah and his people retaliated by building barricades, stocking grains, and launching an armed attack that destroyed the police station, burned down Christian settlements, and seized a military post. He was arrested after one of his men betrayed him. The British publicly hanged him in Jowai town of West Jaintia Hills on 30 December 1862. A government college in Jowai was named after him in 1967. A postage stamp was issued in his memory in 2001 during the Vajpayee years. But, to this day, Nangbah has yet to receive a prominent mention in any of the nations textbooks. Then there was U. Tirot Sing Syiem, a Khasi chief who declared war against the British as they attempted to take over the Khasi Hills. He fought with traditional weapons like swords, shields, bows, and arrows, which were no match for the modern British weaponry and firepower. Despite his disadvantage, Tirots men held out for four long years, engaging in guerrilla warfare, ambushing, and frustrating the imperial forces. He was shot and captured after one of his generals betrayed his location in exchange for gold. Tirot died in Dhaka on 17 July 1835 at the age of thirty-three. Another local tale of daring is that of Pa Togan Sangma, the first Garo freedom fighter and a daredevil a-chik mande (hill people) warrior. In 1872, he led a nighttime attack on a British contingent that had come to conquer the East Garo Hills while the British troops were sleeping. After the initial shock, the troops retaliated with modern firepower, completely overwhelming the tribes traditional weapons. Sangmas innovation of using large shields made of plantain stems proved ineffective against bullets, and he was killed on the spot The Sangh has its own pantheon of martyrs in Meghalaya. One of them is the iconic local leader, Rijoy Sing Khongshah, hailing from Umniuh Tmar village in the picturesque Pynursla area of Meghalayas East Khasi Hills. Rijoy was an RSS member and president of the local Seng Khasi Ri-War Mihngi unit. Seng Khasi is a cultural organisation dedicated to preserving and reviving the religion and traditions of the Niam Tre. It originated as a resistance movement against British colonial rule in the Khasi and Jaintia hills and the widespread religious conversions carried out by Christian missionaries among the Khasi-Pnars. Rijoy soon became a local hero. As his popularity continued to rise, he began receiving death threats from local militant organisations. However, he paid no heed to them. On 1 March 2001, while on his way to a meeting, he was kidnapped and never returned. Despite extensive protest rallies and a CBI inquiry, his body was never found. Rijoy Sing Khongshah is the inspiration behind Pawnamshisha Khongsais turn to nationalism and the initiation of social work. The wiry twenty-nine-year-old serves as the RSS secretary of Khasi Hill in the Ri-Bhoi district. Khongsai joined the movement following Rijoy Sings kidnapping and, in all likelihood, murder. Thanks to Rijoy, nearly every village in the Khasi Hills now has an RSS activist, says Pawnam, whose father was closely associated with the locally renowned activist. I first met him when I was in Class III. I witnessed his tireless efforts, travelling from village to village, working for the indigenous people. He criticises the heavily pro-Christian media in the state, alleging that it conceals regular atrocities committed by Christians against the indigenous people while sensationalising isolated incidents where Christians are the victims. Pawnam resides in his wifes home, which is 20 km from Pynursla. He mentions that it was only after Narendra Modi became the prime minister that his village received infrastructure such as roads, electricity, toilets, and cooking gas cylinders. People never imagined they would have all these amenities in just five years. My village, Tynriang, is just one kilometre from the Bangladesh border, yet we now have access to all these facilities. Even the border fencing began after Modi took office, he explains. He adds that indigenous youths admire Modi. Even many Christian youngsters began praising the prime minister after the Balakot air raids in response to the Pulwama terror attack. Interestingly, the local BJP block secretary is a young Christian man. Spotlight Indias New Right: Powering The Current Wave of Nationalism and Civilisational Revival By Abhijit Majumder BluOne Ink, 2024 420 pages, Rs 699/- The Libyan Stability Support Agency has launched intensive desert patrols to secure areas along the border with Tunisia. In a statement, the agency said the step came as part of a comprehensive plan to combat the growing threats of illegal migration and smuggling. Advertisement The statement stressed that these patrols operate around the clock through teams trained to deal with geographical and security challenges in rugged border areas. Advertisement Also on Saturday, the Libyan military authorities of the Government of National Unity launched a large-scale anti-crime military operation in the countrys West Coast Military Zone, starting from the city of Zawiya which is located some 45 km west of Tripoli. Zawiya has recently witnessed violent clashes between armed militias, the last of which was in December when the countrys main oil refinery was heavily damaged. Libya has been divided into multiple military zones due to the ongoing instability and conflicts following the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. These zones are typically controlled by different factions, Xinhua news agency reported. Earlier on March 19, 2024, the Libyan Interior Ministry announced the closure of the Ras Ajdir border crossing with Tunisia after an attack by a criminal group. Instructions were made to immediately close the border (with Tunisia) after it was attacked by a criminal group that aimed to create chaos and disrupt work on preventing transgressions, the ministry said in a statement. The act of this criminal group will not be tolerated. Legal measures and proper punishments will be carried out against the perpetrators, the statement said. According to local media, clashes erupted between security forces recently tasked to secure the border and a local armed group, with no casualties reported. The Ras Ajdir border crossing, located some 170 km west of Libyas capital Tripoli, witnesses thousands of people crossing daily. State funeral services honouring 39th US President Jimmy Carter unfolded in his hometown Plains in Georgia, where the statesman passed away at the age of 100 on December 29. Hundreds of mourners on Saturday lined the streets when Carters motorcade left for Atlanta, the capital city of his home state, some 260 km away. Flowers were laid at the base of the Carter monument in downtown Plains and rangers rang a farm bell 39 times at his Boyhood Farm when the motorcade stopped by. Advertisement The mood in the rural town, where Carter spent most of his life, wasnt one of sorrow or grief. Rather, there was a sense of overwhelming gratitude for all that the peanut farmer-turned-commander in chief accomplished during his century on earth, Xinhua news agency reported quoting The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Advertisement Its amazing what you can cram into a hundred years, grandson Jason Carter, the chair of the Carter Presidential Centers board, said on Saturday afternoon at a ceremony in the non-profit organisation, which houses the Carter Presidential Library in Atlanta, after the motorcade arrived. His spirit fills this place, Jason Carter told the audience, including many Carter Center employees, You continue the vibrant living legacy of what is my grandfathers life work. During his presidency from 1977 to 1981, Carter signed the Panama Canal Treaties that restored Panamas full jurisdiction over the Panama Canal Zone, starting from 2000, and guaranteed its neutrality. He also witnessed the inking of the landmark Camp David Accords, a peace deal between Egypt and Israel in 1978. President Carters leadership contributed significantly to international peace and security, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said upon the former Presidents death. His legacy as a peacemaker, human rights champion and humanitarian will endure. Carter will lie in repose at the Carter Presidential Centre in Atlanta till Tuesday. The funeral journey will then continue toward Washington, DC, where the former President will lie in state in the US Capitol for a day and a half. A state funeral is scheduled for Thursday morning at Washington National Cathedral, where President Joe Biden is expected to deliver a eulogy. Afterwards, Carter will be buried in his hometown next to his wife Rosalynn, who died in 2023 after 77 years of their marriage. General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee Xi Jinping, also Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, addresses the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) on Jan. 6, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Xueren) BEIJING, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, on Monday called for resolutely winning the tough, protracted and all-out battle against corruption. Xi, also Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, emphasized rigorous Party governance with the spirit of reform when addressing the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection. Xi said unprecedented efforts have been made to advance full and rigorous Party governance and the fight against corruption since the beginning of the new era, yielding widely recognized results. He stressed the need to take resolute and sustained actions to fight corruption. "Corruption is the greatest threat to the Party, and combating it represents the most thorough kind of self-reform," Xi said. Confronted with significant challenges in the fight against corruption, the Party has remained committed to investigating and addressing all corruption cases to maintain the integrity of officials, Xi said. But he also noted that the fight against corruption remains "a grave and complex challenge," calling for strengthening resolve and confidence in this regard. Xi emphasized the importance of making greater progress in governing the Party to ensure it remains the strong leadership core in building socialism with Chinese characteristics and to guarantee the steady advancement of Chinese modernization. General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee Xi Jinping, also Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, addresses the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) on Jan. 6, 2025. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi) General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee Xi Jinping, also Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, addresses the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) on Jan. 6, 2025. Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang and Li Xi attended the session. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei) The French Carrier Strike Group, led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier FNS Charles de Gaulle and comprising other French naval ships, is in India from Friday to Thursday with the aim of enhancing interoperability, fostering mutual understanding, and strengthening collaboration between the navies of India and France. French Carrier Strike Group, which includes nuclear-powered aircraft carrier FNS Charles de Gaulle along with its escort vessels, a frigate, a submarine and supply ships, is visiting #Goa from 03 - 09 Jan 25. The purpose of this visit is to enhance #interoperability, foster pic.twitter.com/H1WDdgS4hG Western Naval Command (@IN_WNC) January 4, 2025 The French Carrier Strike Group is making port calls in Goa and Kochi in Kerala. In Goa, there is a series of engagements, including a passage exercise at sea with the Indian Navy's Western Fleet, professional exchanges, cross-deck visits, and subject matter expert exchanges planned. ALSO READ: Indian Navy set for historic milestone as three combat platforms will join fleet on January 15 Rear Admiral Jacques Mallard, Commander of the French Navy Strike Group, along with Rear Admiral Hugues Laine and Commanding Officers of the French naval ships, would interact with Rear Admiral Ajay D. Theophilus, Flag Officer Commanding Goa Naval Area. Simultaneously, French naval ships FS Forbin and FS Alsace, also part of the Carrier Strike Group, are visiting Kochi. The visit too would include professional interactions, cross-deck visits, and subject matter expert exchanges, with commanding officers of the French ships meeting the senior leadership of the Southern Naval Command. These engagements are part of a broader initiative to strengthen ties between India and France, reaffirming their shared commitment to constructive collaboration and mutual growth in the maritime domain, the defence ministry said in a release. Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao on Monday, clarified that the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases reported in a private hospital in Bengaluru were not a cause for panic as the HMPV strain detected here was an old virus and is not known to cause death. Also read | After 2 babies test positive for HMPV at Bengaluru's Baptist Hospital, a third case suspected in Gujarat #WATCH | Bengaluru: Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao says "This is not something which is unknown or new. HMPV is a flu virus and certain people catch respiratory problems and cold due to this virus. The child with HMPV symptoms is normal and he will be discharged https://t.co/8IdlQzdS9Y pic.twitter.com/LxcoIRNyFI ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025 It is wrong to say this is the first case to be detected in India as the HMP virus is an existing virus and was first detected in the Netherlands in 2001. The HMP virus accounts for one per cent of all Influenza-like illness (ILI) reported through routine surveillance carried out by the Centre and ICMR, said Rao, who held an emergency meeting with health department officials. Also read | HMPV outbreak in China: Should India be worried? Experts weigh in Referring to the two cases of HMPV confirmed by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Rao said, "The two cases of HPMV are related to the three and eight-month old infants, who tested positive for the virus at Baptist hospital in Bengaluru. However, both the infants are stable and one has already been discharged from the hospital. This is a respiratory virus that causes common cold and flu and not known to be fatal." Also read | New virus in China: How human metapneumovirus is transmitted and what are its symptoms? Reiterating that the virus was not life-threatening, Rao said that there had been no sudden surge in ILI cases in India too. "We will track the global trend and carry out surveillance as a norm. ILI cases get notified routinely. We reported two lakh cases last year but there was zero mortality," he added. The minister also clarified that the outbreak in China was not linked to the cases reported in Bengaluru. However, he advised the people to follow the guidelines (Dos and Don'ts) issued by the Centre. At least eight District Revenue Guard jawans and a driver are feared dead after Naxals blew up their vehicle in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur on Monday. As per reports, close to 20 personnel were present in the vehicle and they were returning after conducting a joint operation against Naxals in Bastar. Sundarraj P, Inspector General of Police Bastar Range, said, The incident took place near Ambeli village under Kutru police station when the security personnel were returning in their Scorpio vehicle after an anti-Naxalite operation. According to police, the security personnel were returning after conducting an operation in Dantewada, Narayanpur and Bijapur areas. The blast reportedly took place on the Bedre-Kutru Road in Bijapur and the attack was reportedly in retaliation to a recent operation against Naxals in the area. At least five Naxals were killed in the recent joint operation by security forces. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai condemned the attack. "The news of the martyrdom of a driver along with 8 soldiers in an IED blast carried out by Naxalites in Kutru of Bijapur district is extremely sad. My condolences are with the families of the martyrs. I pray to God for peace to the souls of the martyred soldiers and to provide strength to the bereaved families," he tweeted. The CM added, "The Naxalites are frustrated with the ongoing Naxal eradication campaign in Bastar and are perpetrating such cowardly acts out of frustration. The martyrdom of the soldiers will not go in vain, our fight to end Naxalism will continue strongly." Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao called the Naxal attacks cowardly and said forces would give a befitting reply. This is a cowardly act by the Naxalites. The sacrifice of our soldiers wont go to waste. Our government will fulfil its promise to make Bastar free from Naxalism by March 2026, Sao told PTI. Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu and the national anthem have again become a flashpoint between Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi and the Tamil Nadu government, with the former walking out of the maiden assembly session of the year on Monday. Ravi accused the DMK government of brazenly disrespecting the National Anthem and Constitution. #WATCH | Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi leaves from the Secretariat as he boycotts Governor annual address The winter session of the Tamil Nadu Assembly began today. pic.twitter.com/Nm7HCd2dK0 ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025 The Tamil Nadu Assembly convened on Monday for the first session in 2025 and as per custom, the session was scheduled to begin with the governors speech. Though Ravi reached the assembly, he left immediately, allegedly after the assembly speaker and chief minister refused to play the national anthem before his speech, despite his request. In a statement posted on X, the Raj Bhavan stated, The Constitution of Bharat and the National Anthem were once again insulted in the Tamil Nadu Assembly today. Respecting the National Anthem is among the first Fundamental Duty as enshrined in our Constitution. It is sung in all the state legislatures at the beginning and the end of Governors address. The Constitution of Bharat and the National Anthem were once again insulted in the Tamil Nadu Assembly today. Respecting the National Anthem is among the first Fundamental Duty as enshrined in our Constitution. It is sung in all the state legislatures at the beginning and the end RAJ BHAVAN, TAMIL NADU (@rajbhavan_tn) January 6, 2025 Explaining the sequence of events, the governors office said Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and Speaker Appavu categorically refused Ravis request to play the national anthem ahead of his speech. Today on arrival of Governor to the House only Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu was sung. Governor respectfully reminded the House of its Constitutional Duty and fervently appealed to the Hon'ble Chief Minister who is the Leader of the House and the Hon'ble Speaker for singing the National Anthem. However, they cussedly refused, it said. The governor left the house not to be party to brazen disrespect. It is a matter of grave concern. Not to be a party to such brazen disrespect to the Constitution and the National Anthem, Governor in deep anguish left the House. Condemning the behaviour, Minister Durai Murugan moved a resolution against Governor Ravi. The resolution was unanimously passed by the house. This isnt the first time Governor Ravi has clashed with the state government over the conduct of business in the Tamil Nadu Assembly. Last year, Ravi refused to read his customary speech saying he disagrees with numerous passages in the speech on moral and factual grounds. Ravi raised the national anthem issue last year as well and while concluding his speech last year, he said, My repeated request and advice to show due respect to the national anthem and play it at the beginning and end of the address has been ignored. Wish this house a productive and healthy discussion for the good of the people. The Chhattisgarh police on Sunday arrested the main suspect in the murder of independent journalist Mukesh Chandrakar, whose body was found in the septic tank of a shed in Bastar district. The accused Suresh Chandrakar, a contractor, was arrested from Hyderabad. Suresh Chandrakar, a relative of the victim Mukesh, had fled Chhattisgarh after the murder came to light. Police said the accused, Suresh, took help from his cousins Ritesh and Dinesh, and construction supervisor Mahendra Ramteke to commit the murder. They were angry at Mukesh for "interfering in their work." Mukesh had reported about the poor road construction work, following which the government ordered an inquiry. This angered Suresh, one of the contractors in the project. The autopsy of Mukesh has revealed that he was tortured brutally before being murdered. The postmortem report revealed his liver had split into four pieces while five of his ribs and neck bones had broken. Besides, he had broken the bone in his hand. His heart too suffered huge damage and there were over 15 injuries on his head. After murdering Mukesh Chandrakar, contractor Suresh Chandrakar threw his body in the septic tank. The search for Mukesh began a day after he went missing, on the complaint filed by his brother Yugesh. The police located the spot where Mukesh's phone was last active and arrived at the contractor's shed. They got suspicious on seeing the septic tank which was newly concretised. The police broke open the tank from where they recovered the body. The incident triggered widespread anger that Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai ordered the demolition of a road construction plant. Following this, Suresh's property was razed down by the senior district administration official. Suresh had several road construction projects in his kitty and had won tenders for three road projects. Meanwhile, allegations surfaced that the accused was active in the Congress party. However former Chief Minister Bhupesh Bhagel said he jumped ship to the BJP long ago and was even spotted going to the Chief Minister's House. BEIJING, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Liu Jianchao, head of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, met with President of the Congress of Peru Eduardo Salhuana in Beijing on Monday. The two sides exchanged views on implementing the important consensus reached by the two heads of state by strengthening inter-party exchanges and political dialogue, deepening the sharing of experience on governance, and promoting the sustained and steady development of the China-Peru comprehensive strategic partnership. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee met and honoured 95 fishermen on Monday who had been detained in Bangladesh for over two months after inadvertently crossing into Bangladeshi waters. She also announced compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the family of another fisherman who died during the detainment process. On Sunday, India and Bangladesh conducted a mutual exchange of fishermen who had crossed their international maritime borders. Bangladesh released 95 Indian fishermen, while India freed 90 Bangladeshi fishermen. The exchange was overseen by coast guard and administrative officials from both countries. VIDEO | West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) meets 95 Indian fishermen in South 24 Parganas who were released from Bangladesh recently. (Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/WNarFvUmM5 Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 6, 2025 The Union Ministry of External Affairs stated that several Indian fishermen were detained by Bangladesh in recent months after unintentionally crossing the maritime border. Indian authorities had also apprehended Bangladeshi fishermen in similar circumstances. The Indian government worked diligently to secure the release of the detained fishermen, leading to the reciprocal repatriation of fishermen from both sides. The rescued Indian fishermen were brought to Ganga Sagar in South 24 Parganas, where CM Banerjee met them on Monday. She emphasised the West Bengal governments proactive role in alerting the Centre and making concerted efforts to bring the fishermen back home. We tracked them through identity cards that we have given to every fisherman in West Bengal. Our administration found out they have been detained in Bangladesh, the chief minister said. CM Banerjee also wondered if the fishermen were physically assaulted during their stay in the neighbouring country after seeing some of them struggling to walk. She asked the South 24 Parganas DM and other district officials to ensure their proper treatment. About the Bangladeshi fishermen who were in West Bengal, she said, We extended utmost care to the Bangladeshi fishermen. Many of them were unwell, and we provided them with the necessary treatment. It was essential for us to uphold the reputation of India and West Bengal. Meanwhile, the chief minister, who was in Sagar Island to inspect the preparation for the upcoming Ganga Sagar Mela (fair) said that her government plans to build a bridge over the Muri Ganga River. Once the bridge is completed, people will be able to drive straight to the mela. I asked the Centre to build it. But now it will be constructed by the state government, CM Banerjee said. She also expressed disappointment that her proposal to grant national status to the Ganga Sagar Mela had been ignored. The Centre provides thousands of crores to Kumbha Mela but nothing to Ganga Sagar. We respect Kumbha but Ganga Sagar is nothing less. In the new year, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana states may earn a dozen new Geographical Indication (GI) tags if everything goes well. Some of these include native agricultural and handicrafts products. Today, there is a never-seen-before awareness, surrounding the benefits of receiving GI tags, within the government and private societies. Subhajit Saha is a name to reckon with in the field of GI as he actively supported and promoted the use of GI to popularise the local talent, crafts and landmarks. In an interview with THE WEEK, Subhajit Saha, Founder of IPRAS and Head Legal & IPR for Resolute Group, throws light on the background work needed to get a GI registration, his personal experiences and how GI tags economically benefit people and places. Q. Can you briefly talk about how you got associated with Geographical Indication (GI) Tags and Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs)? I started my IPR journey in 2004, when I joined Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in the IPR centre. The main objective was to spread IP awareness, capacity building and offer IPR facilitation services to stakeholders. Along with Patents, Trademarks, Designs and Copyrights, GI was also on our radar. It all began with the Pochampally IKAT GI registration in 2004 and since then it has been no looking back. Initially, it was all about awareness and sensitisation with the beginning of GI movement in India back then. The next phase was to register these products. Hence, a part of my profession that was to register GIs, then turned into a passion. I also run an NGO IPRAS founded in 2023 to help artisans for branding and connecting to market opportunities. This is how I got associated with GI and facilitated more than 30 GI registrations from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Madhya Pradesh till date. Q. Why and how important are GI tags for places, events, food etc? Geographical Indications (GI) of Goods are defined as that aspect of IPRs referring to a country or to a place situated therein as being the country or place of origin of that product. Typically, such a name conveys an assurance of quality and distinctiveness, which is essentially attributable to the fact of its origin in that defined geographical locality. So, GI is the fine link between people, places and products. The most important attribute is the legal right, which the producers and artisans get to use the name and brand their product by excluding others. The other aspect is the premium which the GI tags give to a product and hence better pricing and good returns. GI tags give an undoubted assurance to the consumer that the product is of certain standard and has a legacy and reputation, which helps to connect consumers better. GI prevents rural exodus as more and more community and groups get involved in making the product and become entrepreneurs. GI not only makes the product famous but also the place and people associated with it thus opening new avenues of tourism and investments in the region. Q. Talk about the role and contribution in helping organisations and governments earn GI tag. Describe the efforts and steps involved. A GI tag is a community right and is given to a group of producers, FPOs and association. Government and organisations can act as facilitators to support with funds, technical data and at times some documentation. GI registration in India takes 12 to 18 months in a smooth sailing case. It begins with an awareness session in the area of origin to bring in the producers and association together to make them aware of the GI as a legal right and IPR. Then what benefits they will get with the registration and the value proposition. If there is no society, association or trust, we then form one and then make them file the application. Once the application is filed which has a GI form, statement of case which covers the making of the product from raw materials to the final products. The application covers the proof of historical origin, specifications, uniqueness and human skill involved. A logo also is a must which needs to be designed and filed with the GI. After the filing, a formality check report is issued by the GI registry with any deficiencies, and we need to comply with the same. Following this, there is a consultative group meeting where in a committee sits and scrutinise the application as we need to defend our case for registration. After the meeting, an examination report is issued for us to submit with all the changes as per the recommendations and inputs of the committee. Once the reply is submitted then the application gets accepted for publication with four months window for any opposition and post which the GI application is granted registration. Till date, 1,408 GI applications are filed and 658 are registered in India. Q. Any particular GI tag related to Telangana thats special to you It has to be Pochampally Ikat being the first GI from the state and also the progress it has made in the last 20 years in terms of sales and turnover with significant exports. Also, the Pochampally Ikat is supplied to Europe for designers to design the upholstery of the US President White House. Even Hyderabad Lad Bangles, cheriyal paintings, silver filigree are my favourites as it has really helped the artisans to get premium and try out new designs and product range. Q. Do you think AP and TG have a lot of potential to get more GI tags? Yes, of course, both the Telugu states have huge potential especially in Agri and horticulture products. As these are unique to the land area due to soil and climatic conditions, they can get GI tags for their characteristics and special traits. Also, there are many handicrafts and handlooms which can be filed for Gis. The One District One Product initiative has really helped to identify more products, and I am confident both the states can clock good number of registrations in the coming years. Both states stand at 36 products as on date and with few more in pipeline is expected to cross 50 + in the next 1-2 years. Q. Telangana is attempting to get around 10 GI tags. Can you talk about the interesting ones? Every GI product is an interesting one. No two products are the same and none of them compete with each other. They are unique and special in their own way and origin. Of course, the Hyderabad Pearls is interesting one as worlds 30 per cent finished pearls comes out from Hyderabad. The threading and processing are so unique which makes us the city of pearls. Batik Painting of Medak is also interesting as it gives a very vibrant tinge to the area and depicts the rural lifestyle. Armur turmeric is going to be another lovely horticulture product from Nizamabad to get the GI tag as the turmeric is long shaped and rich in curcumin content than the other turmerics. I want to end with my trademarked slogan Gift a GI Gift as a Tradition and I am sure, one day this will be in vogue to gift GIs for occasions and festivals. Pro-Hindu organisations have mooted a Sanatan Hindu Board, which will be set up to bring all Hindu temples in Karnataka under one umbrella, with the board managed by the Shankaracharyas and Hindu religious leaders. The Karnataka Temples and Endowment Institutions Association, which co-hosted a two-day state-level temples convention in Bengaluru last weekend, passed the resolution to set up the Board and has sought support from the state government. The convention, co-hosted by Karnataka Mandir Mahasangh and Hindu Janajagruti Samiti and attended by 800 temple trustees, flagged issues affecting the temple administration and the practise and propagation of Hinduism. We have handed over the social, justice, family, and education systems to the government one by one. It is a humiliating situation for society to be subordinate to the government in matters of religion. Only if the temples are taken back from the government control, can the temple culture and traditions be protected, opined Sri Sri Abhinava Shankara Bharathi Mahaswamiji of Kudali Sringeri Mahasamsthan. The temple can do the work of cultivating culture. Awareness should be created in temples and monasteries through chanting vedas, mass worship, and performing yajna homa). World peace is possible only when religion upholds the value of humanity, said Sri Siddhalinga Swamiji of Skandeshwara Swamy Temple. Sunil Ghanwat, national organiser of Mandir Mahasangh, said, In India, the British started bringing the temples under government control in 1927, and even after India became independent, the temples could not be independent. We must fight unitedly to free the temples from government control. P. Ramananda Gowda, dharmaprasarakar at Sanatan Sanstha, said, In ancient India, temples were the hub to preserve art, culture, religion, and healthcare systems. In 1835, the English Education Act was implemented, and the Gurukul education was stopped. So, the last four generations have been deprived of religious education. This has resulted in problems like conversion and assault on Hindu beliefs, attacks on Hindu gods, and Hindu pride. We need to revive religious education at our temples. Temples should become centres imparting religious education and charity. The temples should form Taruna Sangha (youth clubs) and involve them in social work and also teach them Karma Yoga, Jnan Yoga, and Bhakti Yoga, said Hindutva leader Chakravarthy Sulibele. Convention sees more resolutions and some hardline demands The convention passed resolutions seeking budgetary allocation from the government for the rejuvenation of neglected temples of historical and archaeological importance and demanded that the common pool of funds collected from 35,000 temples under the purview of the state endowment department should be utilised only for the betterment of Hindu religious purposes. The convention attended by religious scholars, organisations and leaders sought that the endowment department should make provision to teach Hindu culture and religious education on temple premises, besides carrying out a survey of the temple lands, clear encroachment by private individuals and non-Hindu organisations and establishing of fast-track courts to resolve these disputes. The meeting drew attention to the need for stricter implementation of the law banning the sale of meat and liquor in the vicinity of Hindu temples and religious sites, demanding that only Hindu traders be allowed near the temples to do business during the fairs and festivals. The private temples taken over by the Endowment department despite the Supreme Court direction should be handed over to the original trustees; the ancient temples inside the forest areas should be registered and allowed to perform daily pujas and rituals by making necessary amendments to the forest laws, were the other demands. Sanatan Panchanga 2025, an Android app, and an e-book of the Sanatan scripture, Follow Ayurveda and be healthy without medicines, were released on the occasion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday virtually inaugurated the new Jammu Railway Division. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw attended the event from Jammu. Speaking on the occasion, Sinha said the event was a historic milestone. The long-cherished dream of connecting Kashmir with Kanyakumari by rail has been realised under Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership, he said. Helicopter shot - Chenab bridge pic.twitter.com/IGkJ3uZM7u Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) September 26, 2024 The Lt Governor appreciated Modi and Vaishnaw for their commitment to the development of Jammu and Kashmir. Infrastructure development has been prioritised, with remarkable advancements in railway expansion and modernisation, he said. Over the last 10 years, more than 5,309 kilometres of new railway lines have been constructed, and over 1,800 kilometres of track electrified. He highlighted Jammus transformation and described it as one of the most impressive railway stations in the world. Sinha said that elevating Jammu to a new railway division would unlock unprecedented connectivity and opportunities for the region. He announced that by the end of the month, Kashmir would be fully integrated into the national railway network. He said the Chenab River railway bridgethe highest of its kind globallyis a symbol of Indias engineering excellence. The railway network will be the backbone of Jammu and Kashmirs economic growth, fostering industrial development and creating jobs and opportunities for the regions people, he said, adding that soon Vande Bharat trains would operate in Kashmir to upgrade the regions transport infrastructure. In his address, the LG acknowledged the efforts of senior BJP leaders Devendra Rana and Sunil Sharma and credited them for persistent advocacy with helping secure these vital railway projects. He assured the people of Jammu and Kashmir that the government remains committed to developing world-class infrastructure to drive growth and prosperity in the region. The National Investigation Agency special court in Lucknow, while delivering its judgment in the Chandan Gupta murder case, raised questions about the role of various non-governmental organisations involved in the case. Pronouncing the verdict, Justice Vivekanand Sharan Tripathi wondered what interest NGOs based in India and abroad have in cases such as this and termed it an unwanted interference in the judicial process. One of the NGOs named in the order is Rihai Manch, which fights for the release of those who have been unfairly incarcerated. Rajeev Yadav, general secretary of the Rihai Manch said that the body had only gone to Kasganj on a fact-finding mission and had met with representatives from both communities. Not just an NGO, any public-spirited citizen can also do that, he said. On January 26, 2018, a tiranga yatra in Kasganj was met by a group of protesters at the Government Inter College. Chandan Gupta, a 20-year-old, was one among those who opposed this blockage. The altercation turned violent and Gupta was shot. After this, violence erupted in Kasganj and over 100 arrests were made. In his judgment, the Justice has pointed out that providing legal counsel to the accused is a state duty and questioned why NGOs must take it upon themselves to represent such accused. The Justice also observed that if such an accused is let off because of the legal help provided by the NGO, his loyalty is towards the NGO and against the state. However, when the accused is let off because of the court-appointed counsel then his faith in the Indian judiciary and the Constitution is strengthened. The judgment names a number of NGOs. While those such as the Peoples Union for Civil Liberties are based in India, others such as Indian American Muslim Council and South Asia Solidarity Group are based out of the country. The Justice has suggested that it must be inquired where such NGOs get their funding from and what their objectives are. The row over the Bihar Public Service Commission examination (BPSC) exam escalated on Monday after Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishor, who had been on a fast unto death seeking cancellation of a Bihar PSC exam at Gandhi Maidan in Patna, was detained by the police on Monday. He has been shifted to AIIMS at Patna for a medical examination. Kishor had been protesting in support of students demanding the cancellation of the BPSC test held on December 13, 2024. Kishor, the poll strategist-turned-politician who formed his party Jan Suraaj last year, has been fasting since last Thursday, marking his entry into the political discourse that has unsettled the Nitish Kumar-led government in Bihar. #WATCH | BPSC protest | Bihar: Patna Police detained Jan Suraaj chief Prashant Kishor who was sitting on an indefinite hunger strike at Gandhi Maidan pic.twitter.com/JQ7Fm7wAoR ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025 #WATCH | Bihar | A clash broke out between Patna Police and supporters of Jan Suraaj chief Prashant Kishor Prashant Kishor who was sitting on an indefinite hunger strike at Gandhi Maidan, was detained by the police pic.twitter.com/AB3E1NNqRE ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025 The controversy over the BPSC exam has been rocking the state for the past month. The issue began one week before the conduct of the BPSC prelims exam held to state services to fill multiple vacancies, including that of sub-divisional magistrates and deputy superintendents of police. Scores of candidates staged a protest in front of the BPSC exam office in Patna alleging rigging in the exams. They also wanted clarification on whether or not the exam would follow the "normalisation" pattern where scores of exams across multiple shifts would be equalised. Following the stir, hundreds of students staged a boycott of the exam. However, the BPSC held a retest for them on Sunday, though the exam body denied the allegations. The BPSC called the issue "a conspiracy" to force the exam's cancellation. However, it was revealed that there was a delayed distribution of papers at 30 exam centres. Allegations also surfaced that non-functional CCTVs were used at some centres. The protest turned violent after the agitators were lathi-charged by the police, injuring many. On Christmas day, Jan Suraaj leader Prashant Kishor visited Patna's Gardanibagh where the protests were happening. He joined the students and marched to the Gandhi Maidan to meet Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. His call for a march saw over 15,000 students gathered at Gandhi Maidan. Kishor and the student protesters were, however, stopped on their way to meet the CM. Kishor went on to sit on a dharna, while the students were offered a meeting with a secretary-level officer to discuss their demands. Though the students led by Jan Suraaj leader former IPS officer RK Mishra met Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena to discuss their demands, they couldn't reach a consensus on the retest. Kishor upped the ante last Thursday when he set a 48-hour deadline for the government to resolve the matter, following which he began his fast-unto-death protest below Mahatma Gandhis statue at the historic Gandhi Maidan in Patna. Nitish Kumar government has so far been careful in handling him, even allowing him to sit on dharna at Patnas Gandhi Maidan with scores of students instead of the designated protest site of Gardanibagh. He had warned that the protest would aggravate if the government did not order a re-examination of the exams before 31st January when the exam results would be announced. "We will not let the government hold the January 26 official function," Kishor told reporters. He has also sought the support of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and former Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav, stating that he was ready to "follow" these leaders and if they were averse to his presence, he was willing to "withdraw". Kishor added that his strike was non political. "These leaders are much bigger than us. They can get five lakh people to gather at the Gandhi Maidanthis is the time to do so. The future of the youth is at stake. We are faced with a brutal regime which has ordered lathi charge 87 times in just three years". He claims he is just a part of the 'Yuva Satyagraha Samiti' (YSS), the organisation formed by students. "All are welcome to lend support be it Rahul Gandhi, who has 100 MPs and Tejashwi Yadav who has more than 70 MLAs", Kishor said. Though he had been accused of joining hands with the BJP, Kishor minced no words attacking the BJP, stating he didn't think any BJP leader would have the courage to speak against the very government of which the party is a part. "The state's youth often say that in national elections, they vote for PM Narendra Modi and nobody else. But the youth of Bihar have got nothing in return since Modi took over," he added. Days after female tiger Zeenat, who had strayed from the Simlipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha, was rescued in West Bengal, another tiger from Odisha is believed to have crossed into Jharkhand and is now roaming near the West Bengal border. During a visit to Ganga Sagar in South 24 Parganas district's Sagar Island on Monday, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged the Odisha government to send its forest officials to rescue the tiger. She stated, I will direct the CS to inform Odisha government to get their tiger back by conducting a rescue operation here so that our people dont suffer. She expressed disappointment with Odishas inability to manage its tigers, which she said was disrupting the lives of people in West Bengals border districts. She added that West Bengal would be willing to accommodate the tigers in its reserves, deep forests, or rescue centres. Reflecting on Zeenats rescue, CM Banerjee said, One tiger crossed five forests and terrified people of five districts in West Bengal. People could not come out of their homes and schools had to be shut. Our administration and forest officials worked day and night to rescue the tiger. The way the tiger was captured without any injury was a model. The new eloped tiger was spotted in Jharkhands Khunti district last week for the first time. Unlike Zeenat, it lacks a radio collar, making it harder to track. After being traced to the Balidi forest in Saraikela-Kharsawan district, its footprints were reportedly found near Dalma Hills, close to National Highway 33, on Monday. The wild cat is now suspected to be heading towards Purulia in West Bengal via the Ajodhya Pahar or Bandwan forests. CM Banerjee clarified that the challenges faced during Zeenats rescue operation should not be repeated, especially since West Bengals forest department is already dealing with a high population of elephants in the region. I am not blaming the Odisha government but earnestly requesting them to send their forest officials to rescue the tiger, she said. Hamas has agreed to release 34 Israeli hostages who were captured by the militants on October 7, 2023. The agreement was reached on Sunday evening based on a list given by Israel, according to The Times of Israel. However, Hamas has refused to reveal whether these 34 captives are still alive or not. Hamas released a video hostage Liri Elbag. I spoke to her mother in Oct.: Liri and Naama are little girls, young girls that for one year are there, in hell. People in the world forget them. Our government, the media, and all over the world. They forget they are still there. pic.twitter.com/8fZrS3oJDE Bianna Golodryga (@biannagolodryga) January 4, 2025 This comes as part of the first phase of a potential ceasefire deal. The hostages will be released in exchange for a number of Palesitinian security prisoners. A unidentified Hamas official, quoted by AFP, said the militant group has agreed to release the 34 prisoners, whether they are alive or not. He said a weeklong ceasefire was required in order to ascertain who among the 34 hostages are alive or dead. These include 23 women and elderly hostages, besides 11 men under 50 whose health conditions have deteriorated. Earlier, reports said Hamas had refused to release 12 of the 34 hostages, claiming that men aged between 18 and 50 are deemed "soldiers". However, Israel is unlikely to accept a ceasefire without finalising the release of hostages. On the other hand, Hamas has been demanding a permanent ceasefire with Israel troops completely withdrawing from Gaza. Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has insisted that the country will not agree to a permanent ceasefire, saying the war will resume when the potential truce ends. Amid mounting pressure from fellow party members, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau resigned on Monday. Trudeau said that he intends to step down as the leader of the ruling Liberals and as prime minister after the party selects its next leader. While addressing a press conference, Trudeau said since assuming power in 2015, he fought for Canada and its people, to strengthen and grow the middle class. "I watched the country rally to support each other during the pandemic and has worked protect free trade on the continent," he said. Also read | Canada immigration policy: Why Trudeaus confession failed to soothe public anger While he took the decision after discussing it with his family, Trudeau said that the country "deserves a real choice in the next election". He also added that because of "internal" battles in the party, he cannot be the leader of the Liberals in the next election. He expressed concerns on parliament being "paralysed for months". He also added that the parliament would be suspended until March. Also read | Canada: 20 dissatisfied Liberal MPs 'sign pact' to remove Trudeau as PM Reportedly, the Liberal Party MPs will be holding a caucus meeting on Wednesday, where they will elect a new leader for the party, who will become the next prime minister. While talking about the leader of Conservative Party of Canada, Pierre Poilievre, he said his vision is "not the right one for Canadians". "Stopping the fight against climate change doesn't make sense...We need an ambitious, optimistic view of the future...and Pierre Poilievre is not offering that," he said. Trudeau was under immense pressure from his fellow Liberal legislators to step down amid polls showing the party will be crushed at the next election. The pressure increased since his long-time ally Chrystia Freeland stepped down as finance minister and quit the party last month. Trudeau has won reelection twice after taking office in November 2015. He is one of the Canada's longest-serving prime ministers. However, his popularity started to dip amid housing shortage, high prices and immigration rules. On multiple platforms Trudeau has agreed that his immigration policy has failed. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is likely to announce his resignation as leader of the Liberal Party this week, sometime as early as Monday, according to reports. The Liberal Party MPs are holding a caucus meeting on Wednesday, wherein they will elect a new leader for the party, who will become the next Prime Minister, according to a report that appeared in The Globe and Mail. Trudeau has been under so much pressure since Chrystia Freeland, his finance minister, quit the party last month, after stating differences in opinion on policy matters, including on handling of possible U.S. tariffs. Freeland quitting the Cabinet was a huge blow for Trudeau, whose popularity had nosedived. Her statement on "costly political gimmicks" had triggered speculations that her resignation was aimed at pushing Trudeau out. The Prime Minister had already been under pressure from his lawmakers to quit with over 20 Liberal members of parliament publicly calling for his departure. Trudeau has long said he plans to stay on as leader but has been keeping away from press and the public for the last few days. However, the report has brought some cheer to the otherwise gloomy economy, with the Canadian currency gaining 0.4% to C$1.4388 per dollar for the first time in five sessions. SHANGHAI, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- The 2024 annual conference of the International Congress of Chinese Mathematicians (ICCM) has commenced in Shanghai, with the announcement that the ICCM will now be permanently held in the city, China Science Daily reported on Monday. The conference, themed "New Frontiers: Mathematics for Transforming Science and Humanity," celebrates the achievements of outstanding Chinese mathematicians and aims to inspire young scientists to pursue innovation in their respective research fields. The ICCM brings together Chinese and international mathematicians to discuss significant advancements and explore future directions in both pure and applied mathematics. This year's conference, running from Jan. 3 to 6, features nearly 200 lectures. Shing-Tung Yau, president of the ICCM and chairman of the Board of Governors of the Shanghai Institute for Mathematics and Interdisciplinary Sciences, noted that the ICCM has played a significant role in inspiring numerous outstanding scholars to achieve remarkable academic accomplishments. New Delhi, Jan 6 (PTI) India's housing market attracted an institutional investment of USD 1.15 billion last year, up 46 per cent annually, as investors look to encash strong demand of residential properties, according to Colliers India. Institutional investment in the housing segment stood at USD 788.9 million in 2023. Real estate consultant Colliers India reported that institutional investments in Indian real estate rose 22 per cent to USD 6.5 billion in 2024, from USD 5.4 billion. Foreign investors invested USD 4.3 billion in Indian real estate, accounting for 66 per cent of the total inflow. In 2024, the Industrial & warehousing segment got maximum investment of USD 2.5 billion last year, from USD 877.6 million during 2023 calendar year. The office segment saw a 23 per cent decline to USD 3,022.5 million in 2024, from USD 2,338.9 million in the preceding year. "With a record USD 6.5 billion inflows in 2024, Indian realty investments have been the highest since 2020. Interestingly, Asia Pacific investors drove almost one-third of the foreign inflows in the country's real estate during the year," Badal Yagnik, Chief Executive Officer, Colliers India, said. Real Estate focussed Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) Golden Growth Fund (GGF) CEO Ankur Jalan said the Indian real estate across asset classes have witnessed strong demand in the last five years thereby attracting interest from both domestic and foreign institutional investors. "With the government's policy interventions, India is becoming the centre of global investment, paving the way for further acceleration in real estate demand," he said, adding that the fund inflows would remain strong even this year across all major cities including Delhi-NCR. New Delhi, Jan 6 (PTI) The Mumbai Academy of Moving Image (MAMI), organizers of the MAMI Mumbai Film Festival, on Monday announced the second edition of MAMI Select Filmed on iPhone initiative, which will be mentored by eminent filmmakers Konkona Sensharma, Vetri Maran, Vikramaditya Motwane and Lijo Jose Pellissery. The initiative is aimed at nurturing four new filmmakers from across India. They will be provided with a grant, the iPhone 16 Pro Max to shoot the film and the MacBook Pro to edit the film. Four emerging filmmakers will be selected from across the country and they have to make four short films, each between 20 and 40 minutes long and presented in four languages: Hindi, Malayalam, Marathi, and Tamil. The four selected filmmakers will be mentored by an illustrious panel, including actor and director Sensharma, Malayalam filmmaker Lijo Jose Pellissery, director-producer Vikramaditya Motwane and Tamil filmmaker Vetri Maaran. From pre-production to post- production, these mentors will guide the filmmakers in pushing the boundaries of storytelling using cutting-edge technology. The completed short films will premiere at a special screening event, followed by their release on the MAMI YouTube channel, ensuring widespread accessibility and audience engagement. As we embark on a new year with a new inclusive vision for MAMI to encourage independent cinema and fresh voices, I am delighted to announce MAMI Select Filmed on iPhone where for the first time we have opened the call for applications across the country to make films in four regional languages," said Shivendra Singh Dungarpur, Festival Director, MAMI. Motwane, who was part of the first initiative, said he is happy to be returning as a mentor again. "I was completely blown away by the quality of the storytelling and the technical finesse of the short films last year and I cannot wait to see what kind of magic the new batch of filmmakers create this year. Im also honoured and excited to be working with my fellow mentors and genius filmmakers Konkona, Lijo and Vetri Maaran. Sensharma said she is happy to partner with MAMI on this initiative, given its focus on enabling and providing a platform to fresh young filmmaking voices. Pellisserry called MAMI Select Filmed on iPhone" an excellent initiative to foster the talent of budding filmmakers across India. "Given the diversity of Indian cinema, I was so happy to hear that the aim of this programme is to identify and support filmmakers from different regions of India and to give them a platform to show their films. I am honoured that I was invited to be a mentor for the Malayalam film and I look forward to my interactions with the filmmaker and sharing my knowledge and experience." Vetri Maaran said he is proud to be invited as a mentor for the Tamil films. "My best to MAMI Mumbai Film Festival for this programme that will cultivate and promote the filmmakers of tomorrow from every geographic, cultural and ethnic scape in India. Young and aspiring filmmakers from across can submit their entries on the festival's official website till January 19. Lhokseumawe (Indonesia), Jan 6 (AP) More than 260 weak and hungry Rohingya refugees, mostly women and children, have landed in Indonesia in two boats, officials said Monday. Police and military officers are working with the UN refugee agency and the local government in West Pereulak in East Aceh to gather more information about the refugees, who arrived Sunday evening, and keep them safe, East Aceh police chief Nova Suryandaru said. We will follow up their presence by coordinating with the UNHCR for further action, Suryandaru said. More than 300 Rohingya refugees have landed in East Aceh since last February. About 1 million Rohingya, who are predominantly Muslim, are living in camps in Bangladesh after leaving Myanmar. They include about 740,000 who fled a brutal clearance campaign in 2017 by Myanmar's security forces, who were accused of committing mass rapes and killings. The Rohingya minority face widespread discrimination in Myanmar and most are denied citizenship. Indonesia has appealed for help from the international community following a sharp rise in the number of Rohingya leaving the overcrowded refugee camps in Bangladesh since last year. Indonesia, like nearby Thailand and Malaysia, is not a signatory to the United Nations 1951 Refugee Convention and is not obligated to accept them. However, the country generally provides temporary shelter to refugees in distress. On Saturday, Malaysian authorities said they turned away two boats carrying nearly 300 Rohingya refugees attempting to enter the country illegally. The Maritime Enforcement Agency reported two more boats were trying to enter after 196 Rohingya landed Friday in the northeastern resort island of Langkawi, where they were detained. (AP) GRS GRS Podgorica (Montenegro), Jan 6 (AP) Several thousand people rallied in Montenegro on Sunday demanding the resignations of top security officials over the shooting earlier this week that left 12 people dead, including two children. Chanting Resignations and Killers," protesters outside the Interior Ministry building in the capital, Podgorica, demanded that Interior Minister Danilo Saranovic and Deputy Prime Minister for Security and Defense Aleksa Becic step down. Milo Perovic, from a student-led group that helped organize the rally, told the crowd that innocent people died during their watch. You failed to protect us, so resign! Perovic said. Hours earlier, hundreds of people held 12 minutes of silence for the 12 victims at a rally in Cetinje, Montenegro's historic capital where the shooting took place on Wednesday. It was the second such massacre in the town in less than three years. Many residents of Cetinje and other Montenegrins believe that police mishandled the situation and haven't done enough to boost security since the first massacre, which happened in August 2022. Wednesday's shooting resulted from a bar brawl. A 45-year-old local man went home to get his gun before returning to the bar and opening fire. He killed four people there and eight more at various other locations before killing himself. The massacre fueled concerns about the level of violence in Montenegrin society, which is politically divided. It also raised questions about the readiness of state institutions to tackle the problems, including gun ownership. Police have said the shooting was impossible to predict and prevent, though the gunman, identified as Aco Martinovic, had been convicted for violent behavior and illegal weapons possession. His victims were mostly friends and family. Montenegrin authorities swiftly announced a new, strict gun law and other tough measures to curb illegal weapons, which are abundant in the Balkan nation of around 620,000 people. On Sunday, police said they raided several locations in the country and confiscated about 20 weapons, more than 500 rounds of ammunition and explosives. Protesters in Cetinje and Podgorica also demanded a demilitarization of the population through the destruction of illegal weapons, high taxes on gun ownership and a moratorium on new licenses while existing ones are reconsidered under strict criteria. The attacker in 2022 in Cetinje gunned down 10 people, including two children, before he was shot and killed by a passerby. Maja Gardasevic, a protest organizer, said during the rally in Cetinje that we came here looking for answers to several questions. Why did a massacre happen in Cetinje for the second time? Gardasevic asked. Why is no one responsible? Why is it so hard to resign? (AP) NSA NSA Manila, Jan 6 (AP) A group of Afghan nationals arrived in the Philippines Monday to process special immigrant visas for their resettlement in the United States, as part of an agreement between Manila and Washington. The Philippines agreed last July to temporarily host a US immigrant visa processing centre for a limited number of Afghan nationals aspiring to resettle in America. Department of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Teresita Daza said the Afghan nationals who landed in the Philippines on Monday were provided entry visas. She said they had completed extensive security vetting and undergone full medical screenings prior to their arrival. The US government will cover the costs for the Afghan nationals' stay in the Philippines, including their food, housing, security, medical and transportation expenses, she said. She didn't specify how many Afghans arrived or how long the visa processing will take. Under the Philippines' rules, visa applicants can stay for no longer than 59 days. A senior Philippine official told The Associated Press last year that only 150 to 300 applicants would be accommodated in the Philippines under the one-time deal. The official who had knowledge of the negotiations agreed to speak on condition of anonymity because of a lack of authority to speak publicly. The Afghan nationals seeking resettlement primarily worked for the US government in Afghanistan or were deemed eligible for US special immigrant visas but were left behind when Washington withdrew from the country and Taliban militants took back power in a chaotic period in 2021. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken first relayed the request to his Philippines counterpart in 2022, and President Joe Biden discussed the request with Philippines leader Ferdinand Marcos Jr. when he visited the US last year, Philippine officials said. Marcos has rekindled relations with the US since winning the presidency by a landslide margin two years ago. In February last year, he allowed an expansion of the American military presence under a 2014 defense agreement in a decision that upset China. (AP) GRS GRS Tokyo, Jan 6 (AP) A standoff between rival government forces outside the presidential compound in South Korea has been a startling development, even for observers used to the country's famously rough and tumble politics. For weeks, impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol has remained in his compound and refused to respond to detention and search warrants. Scuffles broke out late last week as dozens of investigators were stopped from entering the compound by hundreds of presidential security guards and a barricade. The spectacle followed Yoon's astonishing decision last month to impose martial law during a seemingly routine impasse with the opposition, which dominates parliament. Here's a closer view of recent events as well as South Korea's tempestuous political history, which has seen presidents toppled, arrested, jailed and shamed as millions have taken to the streets in protest. What's the latest? A government agency dedicated to fighting corruption is asking police to take the lead in efforts to detain Yoon. Agency investigators failed last week to bring Yoon into custody following a standoff with his security service. The thinking is that the police are better suited to get Yoon out of his compound than the anti-corruption agency, which has faced claims of incompetence after its failure Friday. Court warrants have been issued to detain Yoon and to search his residence. Yoon's legal team says the agency's move to get police to execute the detainment warrant is illegal. Yoon has been refusing to appear for questioning over his short-lived martial law decree on December 3. He has described his power grab as a necessary act of governance against a liberal opposition that has bogged down his agenda with its legislative majority. He has vowed to fight to the end against efforts to oust him. Martial law lasted only a few hours, but the country's politics, diplomacy and financial markets have been shaken for weeks. The decree also exposed South Korea's deeply polarised society. Yoon's lawyers on Monday filed complaints with public prosecutors against the anti-corruption agency's chief prosecutor, Oh Dong-woon, and six other anti-corruption and police officers for orchestrating Friday's detainment attempt, which they say was illegal. What led to the standoff, and what could come next? Yoon's declaration of martial law unleashed a string of political aftershocks. The anti-corruption agency, which is leading a joint investigation with police and the military, has been weighing charges of rebellion after Yoon declared martial law and dispatched troops to surround parliament. Lawmakers who managed to get past the blockade voted to lift martial law hours later. Yoon's presidential powers were suspended after parliament voted to impeach him on December 14, accusing him of rebellion. The Constitutional Court has begun deliberations on whether to formally remove Yoon from office or reinstate him. The agency trying to get Yoon out of his house, the Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials, will likely seek a new court warrant to extend the window for Yoon's detention. Police say they are reviewing the agency's request. It wasn't immediately clear whether the anti-corruption agency would make another attempt to detain Yoon on Monday before the deadline expires at midnight. About 150 investigators tried to get Yoon on Friday in a tense standoff with the presidential security service that lasted more than five hours. After getting around a military unit guarding the residence's grounds, the agency's investigators and police were able to approach within 200 metres of Yoon's residential building but were stopped by a barricade of around 10 vehicles and approximately 200 members of the presidential security forces and troops. In a statement, Park Jong-joon, chief of the presidential security service, hit back against criticism that his organisation has become Yoon's private army, saying it has a legal obligation to protect the incumbent president. Yoon's lawyers said they plan to file complaints against about 150 anti-corruption and police investigators who were involved in Friday's detention attempt. Why is this happening in South Korea? The why is incredibly tricky. But a mix of history and geography have something to do with it. The Koreas have been sandwiched between big powers for millennia, with China, Russia, Japan and the United States all playing parts of a great global game on the peninsula that extends from the east coast of Asia. South Korea is deeply split, with the divisions reaching into many parts of life, from culture to class to gender to politics. Much of the deep political divide can be traced to what happened at the end of World War II, when US and Soviet forces met in the middle of the Korean Peninsula and agreed to divide the land into Washington and Moscow-backed spheres of influence. This solidified into independent rival Koreas in 1948 and then exploded into war and permanent division in 1950. After that, South Korea was run by a string of dictators until democracy came in the late 1980s. Some of the passion evident in South Korean politics can be seen in the turmoil faced by recent presidents, many of whom have been jailed for corruption after leaving office. A particularly sensational moment came in 2016 when millions protested against conservative President Park Geun-hye, who later became the first democratically elected leader to be forced from office since South Korea turned democratic. Park, who was pardoned in late 2021 by her liberal rival and successor, had been serving a lengthy prison term for bribery and other crimes. (AP) GRS GRS Pune, Jan 6 (PTI) In the first such initiative in India to produce clean energy, NTPC has decided to mix bamboo with coal for generating power at its thermal plant in Maharashtra's Solapur, the executive chairman of the CM's Task Force said on Monday. This development comes after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis wrote to the National Thermal Power Corporation chairman proposing to start India's first biomass-based (bamboo) thermal power project at its Solapur Super Thermal Power Station, a 1,320 MW coal fired project. Pasha Patel, executive chairman of the Chief Minister's Environment and Sustainable Development Task Force, said bamboo will be purchased from farmers in Solapur and other adjoining regions. Patel said that the Solapur thermal power project will be the first project in India to start using bamboo as a biomass in power production. Patel told PTI that Fadnavis on November 24 wrote a letter to NTPC chairman Gurdeep Singh proposing to start India's first biomass-based (bamboo) thermal power project in Solapur and assured the state government's support. He said a meeting was held in Solapur between NTPC chairman Gurdeep Singh and other officials and farmers, who agreed for large scale bamboo plantation. Fadnavis stated in the letter that 70 per cent of power generation is still dependent on coal which causes air pollution and underlined the need for alternative environmental-friendly means for power production. "Currently, Solapur Thermal Power station consumes 40 lakh tonne coal to generate power every year. If 1 kg of coal is fired, it produces 2.08 kg of carbon, imagine the carbon emission every year," said Patel. He cited the Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change's observation regarding phasing out coal-based thermal power plants to save mankind. "Several countries are now doing away with coal-based thermal plants. We should also make some progress in that direction. I proposed to use bamboo as a biomass at the Solapur plant on the pilot project and as the bamboo cultivation is likely to increase, it can be used to generate power," he added. Following this suggestion, the chief minister wrote to the NTPC chairman and proposed that the first biomass-based thermal power project in India be started at the Solapur thermal power station. "The calorific values of coal and bamboo are 4,000 and they will remain so after coal and bamboo are burnt. The advantages of bamboo are its availability throughout the year and cultivation in any region," Patel said. Patel said a meeting was held between NTPC chairman Gurdeep Singh, Maharashtra Institution for Transformation (MITRA) CEO Praveen Singh Pardeshi, NTPC Solapur Project Head Tapan Kumar Bandopadhyay and farmers. He said farmers can avail of subsidies offered per hectare through MGNREGA. "Additionally, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has also prepared subsidy plans for up to ten years to support bamboo cultivation," he said. According to Patel, NTPC can buy bamboo in bulk from farmers. Patel said farmers were initially apprehensive about cultivating bamboo on a large scale due to the unavailability of big buyers. "This problem is solved with NTPC's assurance of a 50-year purchase agreement. Farmers have welcomed this decision and are ready to go large-scale bamboo cultivation," he said. Patel said the NTPC has asked farmers to cultivate bamboo on 1 lakh hectares and assured them that the corporation will buy all the produce. The MITRA CEO assured necessary support for bamboo cultivation and encouraged farmer production companies to take the lead. "He also mentioned plans to provide machinery for processing bamboo biomass pellets through CSR initiatives," said Patel. New Delhi, Jan 6 (PTI) The Congress on Monday announced a 'Pyari Didi Yojana', promising a monthly financial assistance of Rs 2,500 to women if voted to power in Delhi. The scheme would be rolled out on the lines of the model adopted by the Congress government in Karnataka. Announcing the scheme, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said it aims to financially empower women, promising that it would be implemented at the first Cabinet meeting of the new government. "Today, I have come here to launch the Pyari Didi Yojana. We are confident that a Congress government will be formed in Delhi, and on the first day of the new Cabinet, we will implement the scheme to provide Rs 2,500 to every woman in the capital," Shivakumar said. Elections to the 70-member Delhi Assembly are due in February. Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav, the party's Delhi in-charge Qazi Nizamuddin, and other senior leaders were present during the announcement. Chandigarh, Jan 6 (PTI) Contractual employees of Punjab Roadways and Pepsu Road Transportation Corporation began a three-day strike on Monday to press their demands, including regularisation of their jobs. Due to the strike, commuters were left stranded at various bus stands across the state. According to the protesters, around 2,800 buses of Punjab Roadways and Pepsu Road Transportation Corporation (PRTC) stayed off the roads. Punjab Roadways, Punbus, PRTC Contract Workers' Union president Resham Singh Gill said around 8,000 contractual employees are participating in the strike. Demonstrations are being held at all 27 bus depots across the state, he said. The contractual employees have been demanding regularisation of their jobs and a salary hike, among other things, Gill said. A few days ago, the union held a meeting with Punjab Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar regarding its demands but there was no resolution, he said. The protesters said they will march towards Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's residence here on Tuesday as part of their protest. U.S. President Joe Biden speaks at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Jan. 5, 2025. Japan's Nippon Steel and United States Steel have jointly filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government over President Joe Biden's decision to block the buyout of the American steelmaker by the Japanese company, local media reported Monday. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong) TOKYO, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Japan's Nippon Steel and United States Steel have jointly filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government over President Joe Biden's decision to block the buyout of the American steelmaker by the Japanese company, local media reported Monday. The two steelmakers are seeking a review of the deal by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), calling Biden's order "unlawful political interference," public broadcaster NHK reported. The case was filed in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. The two firms also filed a second lawsuit against Cleveland-Cliffs, its CEO Lourenco Goncalves, and USW union President David McCall "for their illegal and coordinated actions" aimed at preventing the deal. Meanwhile, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba warned Monday of potential repercussions for bilateral trade following Biden's decision, adding he would seek clarification regarding the national security risk cited by Biden. "Unfortunately, it is true that the Japanese business circles have voiced concern over future investments between Japan and the U.S.," Ishiba said at his first press conference of the year. Japan's Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yoji Muto also told reporters Monday that the president's decision is "extremely regrettable and hard to understand," adding the Japanese government will continue asking the Biden administration to clear concerns among the business communities in the two countries. Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel agreed on the takeover in December 2023. The CFIUS reviewed the deal, but failed to reach a consensus. It was then referred to Biden. Biden said Friday that he has decided to block the 14.1 billion U.S. dollars sale of U.S. Steel to Nippon Steel, citing risks to national security, while urging the two companies to "fully and permanently" abandon their plan. The Japanese steel giant, the world's fourth-largest by production volume, will hold a press conference detailing their case on Tuesday. U.S. President Joe Biden is pictured at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Jan. 5, 2025. Japan's Nippon Steel and United States Steel have jointly filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government over President Joe Biden's decision to block the buyout of the American steelmaker by the Japanese company, local media reported Monday. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong) U.S. President Joe Biden speaks at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Jan. 5, 2025. Japan's Nippon Steel and United States Steel have jointly filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government over President Joe Biden's decision to block the buyout of the American steelmaker by the Japanese company, local media reported Monday. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong) U.S. President Joe Biden is pictured at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Jan. 5, 2025. Japan's Nippon Steel and United States Steel have jointly filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government over President Joe Biden's decision to block the buyout of the American steelmaker by the Japanese company, local media reported Monday. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong) U.S. President Joe Biden is pictured at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Jan. 5, 2025. Japan's Nippon Steel and United States Steel have jointly filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government over President Joe Biden's decision to block the buyout of the American steelmaker by the Japanese company, local media reported Monday. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong) U.S. President Joe Biden is pictured at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Jan. 5, 2025. Japan's Nippon Steel and United States Steel have jointly filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government over President Joe Biden's decision to block the buyout of the American steelmaker by the Japanese company, local media reported Monday. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong) When Pesach comes around, many of us are very machmir meticulously checking for every crumb of chametz and insisting on hand-made chabura matzah with all the chumros. But when it comes to the rest of the year, do we apply the same rigorous standards to what goes into our bodies? Or do we turn a blind eye when its inconvenient? Heres a hard truth if youre vaping without doing your homework, you might be inhaling treif. Let me exain. E-cigarettes and vapes contain four base ingredients: 1. Propylene Glycol Derived from propane, its safe, kosher, no issues here. 2. Nicotine Not a kashrus concern. 3. Flavoring Natural and artificial, case-by-case basis. 4. Glycerin Heres the kicker. Glycerin can be kosher. But it can also be made by spinning animal fat until it separates the exact same process used for extracting blood. The top layer is fat, and the bottom layer is glycerin. And yes, that glycerin, straight from the animal fat, is in your vape. But its vegetable glycerin, you say. Maybe. Maybe not. Theres no way to test the source of glycerin once its in the product. Look it up. Research it. Youll find that the machinery used to produce animal-based glycerin is often the same as for vegetable glycerin. That alone should make you pause. Lets talk about the so-called heterim. Its batul bshishim. Wrong. When up to 70% of the liquid in your vape is glycerin, its not batul. In fact, glycerin might be the majority ingredient. Batul bshishim? Not even close. It burns off like a cigarette. Wrong again. Vapes dont burn. They evaporate hence the name. If the liquid actually touched fire, your vape would explode. Baruch Hashem, that doesnt happen. Its not eating. Think again. Ask yourself is drinking treif mutar? Is sucking on treif candy mutar? Vaping is no different. But dont take my word for it. Rav Yochanan Wosner, Skver Av Beis Din and one of the worlds leading poskim, has pasekend that a vape needs a hechsher. Dont like Skver? Ask a litvishe posek. Ask the posek you trust. But ask. Both the Eida Chareidis and the Chicago Rabbinical Council (cRc) have also addressed the necessity of kosher certification for vape liquids: Eida Chareidis: Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch, a leading authority within the Eida Chareidis, has ruled that e-cigarettes require a hechsher (kosher certification). He reasons that since the vapor contains flavorings that are tasted during inhalation, it is akin to consumption, thereby necessitating kosher supervision. Chicago Rabbinical Council (cRc): The cRc has issued guidelines stating that electronic cigarette liquids, which typically include kosher-sensitive ingredients such as glycerin and flavors, must have kosher certification. They note that even if manufacturers claim to use only kosher raw materials, without independent certification, these products cannot be recommended. Heres the bottom line kosher vaping options exist. Plenty of companies produce vapes with proper hechsherim. Off the top of my head: Vape X, Vapisto, 10X, and . This isnt about pushing a brand or making anyone feel guilty. Its about being honest with ourselves and living by the standards we want to uphold. If were serious about halacha, we cant ignore the inconvenient truths. May our commitment to keeping kashrus in every aspect of our lives bring the geulah bmehaira byameinu amen. Signed, H. Levy The views expressed in this letter are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of YWN. Have an opinion you would like to share? Send it to us for review. Editorial Note from YWN: Yeshiva World News does notand will nevercondone vaping, smoking, or any activity involving nicotine in any form. These habits are dangerous, addictive, and entirely against the values we promote. The U.S. Surgeon General has made it clear: vaping poses serious health risks, especially to young people, with harmful effects on brain development, respiratory health, and long-term addiction. We strongly urge our readers to prioritize their health and avoid these harmful substances entirely. There is no excuse, no justification, and no tolerance for engaging in such destructive behaviors. Your life and well-being are too precious to risk. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says he will urge allies to boost Ukraines air defenses at a meeting this week in Germany, while both sides said Kyivs forces pressed new attacks Sunday in Russias Kursk region. Russian shelling, meanwhile, killed at least one person and wounded another in Ukraines Dnipropetrovsk region, local officials said. Dozens of partner countries will participate in the meeting of the Ramstein group at Ramstein Air Base in Germany on Thursday, Zelenskyy said, including those who can help boost our capabilities not only to defend against missiles but also against guided bombs and Russian aviation. We will discuss this with them and continue to persuade them, Zelenskyy said in his nightly address on Saturday. The task remains unchanged: strengthening our air defense. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin will attend the meeting, which originally had been scheduled for October with U.S. President Joe Biden present. The session was postponed in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton striking the state of Florida. The Biden administration is pressing to send as much military aid as possible to Ukraine before Trump is sworn in Jan. 20. Trump claimed during his election campaign that he could end the nearly 3-year-old war in one day, and his comments have raised questions over whether Washington will continue to be Ukraines biggest and most important military backer. Zelenskyy said last week that Trump is strong and unpredictable, and those qualities can be a decisive factor in his policy approach to the war. Russia controls about a fifth of Ukraine and last year advanced slowly in eastern areas despite high losses of troops and equipment. The wars trajectory isnt going in Ukraines favor, with the country shorthanded on the front line and in need of more support from its Western partners. In Ukraines incursion in the Kursk region, Zelenskyy said Russian and North Korean troops had suffered heavy losses in fighting in Russias Kursk region. In battles yesterday and today near just one village, Makhnovka, in the Kursk region, the Russian army lost up to a battalion of North Korean infantry soldiers and Russian paratroopers, he said. This is significant. Zelenskyy said last month that 3,000 North Korean troops had been killed or wounded in Kursk, where Ukrainian forces launched an incursion in August, dealing a blow to Russias prestige and forcing it to deploy some of its troops from eastern Ukraine. The incursion didnt significantly change the dynamic of the war, and military analysts say Ukraine has lost around 40% of the land it initially captured. Russias Defense Ministry said Sunday that Ukraine launched a fresh offensive in the Kursk region. It claimed its forces pushed back Ukrainian troops, but some reports from Russian military bloggers indicated that Moscows forces faced significant pressure. A ministry statement said Ukrainian forces attacked about 9 a.m. local time (0600 GMT, 1 a.m. EST) near the village of Berdin with two tanks, a mine-clearing vehicle and 12 armored combat vehicles with paratroopers. Two Ukrainian attacks were repelled, it said. Ukrainian presidential adviser Andriy Yermak said there was good news from Kursk and that Russia was getting what it deserves, while Andriy Kovalenko, head of Ukraines official Centre Against Disinformation, said on Telegram that Russian troops were attacked in several places. The Associated Press was not immediately able to verify the reports. In other developments, local officials said one person was killed and another wounded in Russian shelling of the city of Nikopol in Ukraines Dnipropetrovsk region on Sunday. Downstream along the Dnieper River, at least six people were wounded when Russian troops shelled the city of Kherson, capital of the region of the same name. Settlements along the west bank of the river come under regular shelling from Russian-controlled territory on the opposite bank. Nine people were wounded in a Russian guided bomb attack on the border town of Semenivka in Ukraines northern Chernihiv region on Saturday evening, local officials said. Moscow sent 103 drones into Ukraine overnight Sunday, Ukrainian officials said. According to Ukraines air force, 61 drones were destroyed and 42 were lost, likely due to electronic jamming. The Russian Defense Ministry said that 61 Ukrainian drones were shot down overnight Sunday in western Russia. No casualties were reported but Rostov regional Gov. Yuri Slyusar said residential buildings and cars were damaged by falling drone debris. (AP) In a closed-door meeting at the White House in the fall of 2023, President Bidens national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, delivered a sobering message to top executives from the telecommunications and technology sectors. Chinese hackers had infiltrated critical U.S. infrastructure, including ports, power grids, and water systems, with the capability to shut them down at will, the WSJ reported Sunday. What neither Sullivan nor those in attendance knew at the time was that Chinas hackers were already burrowing deep into U.S. telecommunications networks, laying the groundwork for future cyber warfare. The twin hacking operationsone targeting infrastructure, the other telecom networkshave shattered previous assumptions about Beijings cyber objectives. Once viewed primarily as economic espionage aimed at stealing business secrets, Chinas hackers are now positioning themselves as a frontline threat in potential geopolitical conflicts. U.S. security officials now view American computer networks as a critical battlefield. Brandon Wales, a former senior cybersecurity official at the Department of Homeland Security, stated that Chinas cyber prepositioning aims to induce chaos at home and prevent the U.S. from projecting power abroad. These concerns are heightened by Chinas increasingly aggressive posture toward Taiwan. Intelligence officials believe Beijing is preparing for potential conflict by 2027, with the U.S. expected to intervene as Taiwans key ally. Since at least 2019, Chinese hackers tied to the Peoples Liberation Army have embedded themselves in vulnerable but often-overlooked targets, including water utilities in Hawaii, ports in Houston, and oil-and-gas facilities. The hackersoperating under the codename Volt Typhoonspent months, and in some cases years, maintaining access, conducting surveillance, and periodically testing their ability to disrupt operations. At one regional airport, hackers checked in every six months to ensure their access remained undetected. In Los Angeles, they scoured utility systems for emergency protocols. U.S. officials believe these intrusions are part of a broader strategy to disrupt Pacific supply lines in the event of conflict over Taiwan. A parallel campaign, dubbed Salt Typhoon, began infiltrating U.S. telecom networks in mid-2023. This sophisticated breach targeted wireless providers, intercepting data from over a million users. Among those compromised were high-level government officials, including individuals connected to Vice President Kamala Harriss campaign and former President Trump. Hackers also gained access to court-authorized wiretap systems, allowing them to view sensitive surveillance operations on suspected Chinese agents. Investigators remain uncertain whether the hackers could intercept live calls, though they acknowledge the breachs severity. Efforts to root out the hackers have proven challenging. Some officials believe the telecom networks are so compromised that eradicating the threat entirely may be impossible. They were very careful, said Anne Neuberger, Bidens deputy national security adviser for cybersecurity. She noted that some hackers erased logs, leaving gaps that make it difficult to assess the full scope of the breach. Verizon and AT&T, two of the primary targets, acknowledged the breaches but insisted that affected customers had been notified and the attacks contained. AT&T denied finding ongoing nation-state activity, while Verizon confirmed it had addressed the vulnerabilities. Federal agencies continue to push telecom companies to strengthen their defenses. In December, cybersecurity officials advised the public to use encrypted messaging apps like Signal, warning that traditional cell networks remain vulnerable. Beijing has dismissed the accusations. Liu Pengyu, the Chinese embassys spokesman, accused the U.S. of fabricating threats to justify increased military spending. Chinese officials maintain there is no evidence to support claims of their involvement. Despite the denials, U.S. national security officials view the cyberattacks as a critical escalation in the ongoing rivalry between Washington and Beijing. The breaches underscore the fragility of Americas digital infrastructure and the urgent need to bolster defenses against the growing threat from Chinas cyber operations. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) A coalition of blatant Jew haters plans to stage a rally outside NYU Tisch Hospital on Monday under the banner of Resist for Palestine. The protest, cynically urging participants to call out sick, raises serious questions about both its location and its intent. NYU Tisch Hospital, a premier healthcare institution, stands to serve all New Yorkers, regardless of background. Why, then, should healthcare workers abandon their duties potentially putting patients at risk to gather outside this specific facility? The optics of such a protest targeting a hospital named after a Jewish benefactor is hard to miss. How exactly does disrupting healthcare services in New York City alleviate suffering in Gaza? Will standing outside a hospital chanting slogans bring aid to civilians or promote dialogue for peace? Of course not. One of the more absurd elements of this campaign is the call for workers to call out sick. First, a basic reality check if you dont have a job, you dont need to call out sick, and most attendees at these protests are unemployed losers. For those in critical fields like healthcare, participating in such an event is more than irresponsible it is dangerous. Patients rely on medical staff to show up, not skip shifts to stand in rallies that do nothing to resolve conflict abroad. Any healthcare worker who neglects their duty to attend this rally should face immediate termination. Hospitals operate on trust, professionalism, and the unwavering dedication of their staff. Willfully abandoning that duty under the guise of activism betrays the core mission of healthcare. Lives are at stake, and there should be zero tolerance for those who compromise patient care for political posturing. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado on Sunday urged supporters to demonstrate across the country, saying in a video message that President Nicolas Maduro will not step down on his own and they must make him leave. Machado instructed supporters to demonstrate Thursday, the day before Venezuelas next presidential term is set to begin. Her message came hours after the government again made clear its intention to arrest retired diplomat Edmundo Gonzalez, who claims to have defeated Maduro in last years election. Maduro is not going to leave on his own, we must make him leave with the strength of a population that never gives up, Machado said in a social media video. Go outside, shout, fight. It is time to stand firm, and make them understand that this is as far as they go. That this is over. Machado, who has been hiding for months at an undisclosed location to avoid arrest, told supporters she will be with them Thursday. Hours earlier, without mentioning Gonzalezs name, National Assembly leader Jorge Rodriguez said the unicameral body would request the immediate arrest of the retired diplomat should he step on Venezuelan soil. The threat followed the governments recent announcement of a $100,000 reward for information on Gonzalezs whereabouts. Gonzalez left Venezuela for exile in Spain in September after a judge issued a warrant for his arrest in connection with an election-related investigation. In recent weeks, he has vowed to travel to Venezuela to be sworn in for the presidential term which, by law, must begin Jan. 10, but he has not explained how he plans to return or wrest power from Maduro, whose party controls all institutions and the military. That unworthy being has been saying that he is going to return to the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Rodriguez said shortly after he was re-elected as the National Assemblys president. Each and every deputy who defends peace will request, if he touches a bit of land of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, his immediate arrest. Gonzalez began a tour of the Americas with stops in Argentina and Uruguay on Saturday, when he told reporters he would travel to the United States next and hoped to speak with President Joe Biden. He said he also planned to visit Panama and the Dominican Republic. Meanwhile, Maduro already received an invitation from the National Assembly to be sworn in for a third term Friday, more than five months after the countrys National Electoral Council, stacked with ruling-party loyalists, declared him winner of the July 28 election. Unlike previous presidential elections, electoral authorities did not provide detailed vote counts. Yet, the opposition collected tally sheets from more than 80% of the nations electronic voting machines, posted them online and said they showed Gonzalez had won the election with twice as many votes as Maduro. Global condemnation over the lack of transparency prompted Maduro to ask Venezuelas high court, also controlled by ruling-party supporters, to audit the results. The court subsequently reaffirmed his victory. The U.S. and most European governments have rejected the elections official results and consider Gonzalez the legitimate winner. Rodriguez on Sunday told National Assembly members that their potential request to have Gonzalez arrested would be based on a recently approved measure that allows for the prosecution of anyone who expresses support for economic sanctions like those imposed by the United States against Venezuela. (AP) North Korea on Monday fired a ballistic missile that flew 1,100 kilometers (685 miles) before landing in waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan, South Koreas military said, extending its weapons testing weeks before Donald Trump returns as U.S. president. The Souths Joint Chiefs of Staff said the midrange missile was fired from an area near the North Korean capital Pyongyang and that the launch preparations were detected in advance by the U.S. and South Korean militaries. It denounced the launch as a provocation that poses a serious threat to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. The joint chiefs said the military was strengthening its surveillance and defense posture in preparation for possible additional launches. Japans Defense Ministry said the missile landed outside its exclusive economic zone and that there were no reports of damage to vessels or aircraft. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed concern that the Norths accelerated pace in missile tests is advancing its capabilities. The North last year tested various nuclear-capable systems that threaten its neighbors and the United States, including a new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile that achieved both the highest altitude and longest flight time of any missile the country has launched. Blinken holds talks in Seoul as political turmoil shakes South Korea The launch came as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was visiting Seoul for talks with South Korean allies over the North Korean nuclear threat and other issues. Blinkens visit comes amid political turmoil in South Korea following President Yoon Suk Yeols short-lived martial law decree and subsequent impeachment by parliament last month, which experts say puts the country at a disadvantage in getting a steady footing with Trump ahead of his return to the White House. In a news conference with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul, Blinken condemned North Koreas latest launch, which violates U.N. Security Council resolutions against the North. He also reiterated concerns about the growing alignment between North Korea and Russia in Moscows war on Ukraine. According to U.S., Ukrainian and South Korean assessments, North Korea has sent more than 10,000 troops and conventional weapons systems to support Moscows war campaign. There are concerns that Russia could transfer to North Korea advanced weapons technology in return, which could potentially enhance the threat posed by leader Kim Jong Uns nuclear-armed military. Blinken described the military cooperation between Russia and North Korea as a two-way street, saying Russia has been providing military equipment and training to the North and intends to share space and satellite technology. Blinken and Cho both dismissed concerns about damage to the U.S.-South Korea alliance in the aftermath of the political turmoil in Seoul. Experts had warned that Yoons martial law decree which lasted only hours but has rattled politics, high-level diplomacy and financial markets for weeks exposed the fragility of South Koreas democratic system in a divided society. We had serious concerns about some of the actions that President Yoon took and we communicated those directly to the government, Blinken said. At the same time we have tremendous confidence in the resilience of South Koreas democracy, in the strength of its institutions and in the efforts that its making to work through those institutions, pursuant to the constitution and the rule of law to resolve differences and to do so peacefully. Kims warning ahead of Trumps return In a year-end political conference, Kim, the North Korean leader, vowed to implement the toughest anti-U.S. policy and criticized the Biden administrations efforts to strengthen security cooperation with Seoul and Tokyo, which he described as a nuclear military bloc for aggression. North Korean state media did not specify Kims policy plans or mention any specific comments about Trump. During his first term, Trump met Kim three times for talks on the Norths nuclear program. Even if Trump returns to the White House, a quick resumption of diplomacy with North Korea could be unlikely. Kims strengthened position built on his expanded nuclear arsenal, deepening alliance with Russia and the weakening enforcement of U.S. international sanctions presents new challenges to resolving the nuclear standoff, experts say. Its unclear whether Trump would be as active as Biden in strengthening U.S. alliances in Asia. During his first term, Trump complained about the cost of keeping 28,000 U.S. troops in South Korea to deter North Korean threats and constantly pushed for significant increases in Seouls defense contributions. There are also concerns in Seoul that Trumps America first approach would damage South Korean interests in trade through increased tariffs and other measures. (AP) A man with a staggering 87 prior arrests was taken into custody early Sunday in connection with two violent subway stabbings. The suspect, identified as 52-year-old Jamar Banks, was found carrying the large knife believed to have been used in the attacks. Banks, whose criminal history includes a long list of offenses and a background of mental illness, was apprehended by the NYPD Warrant Squad at the 219th Street station in The Bronx just after midnight. He was subsequently transported to the NYPD Transit Bureau District 2 in Manhattan. The weapon, described by officers as a large blade, matched the description of the knife used in two recent subway assaults. Banks most recent encounters with law enforcement occurred in November, when he was twice arrested for petty theft and released with summonses. Now, he faces more serious charges, including first-degree assault and third-degree weapons possession, in connection with the latest string of transit stabbings. On Sunday afternoon, Banks appeared disheveled and visibly unkempt as officers escorted him in handcuffs from the transit district. His torn white jeans sagged, exposing red underwear beneath, as he shuffled toward a waiting police vehicle. He remained silent when questioned by reporters, seemingly dazed and overwhelmed by the media attention. As Banks was led away, a bystander shouted, Youre disgusting! reflecting the publics frustration over the recurring violence in the citys transit system. According to law enforcement alerts prior to his arrest, Banks was frequently spotted on the No. 2 and No. 5 subway lines, prompting officers to exercise extreme caution when approaching him due to the possibility he was armed. Banks is accused of stabbing a 31-year-old man on a No. 2 train at 14th Street and Seventh Avenue in Manhattan last Wednesday, following an argument. A second attack allegedly took place the following morning when Banks reportedly confronted and stabbed an off-duty MTA cleaner on the No. 6 train platform at Pelham Bay station. The cleaner sustained wounds to the back and armpit. Both victims survived and were hospitalized in stable condition. Banks extensive rap sheet includes previous arrests for attempted murder, assault, weapons possession, criminal trespassing, fare evasion, and petty larceny, raising renewed concerns about repeat offenders and the safety of New Yorks subway system. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation Monday in the face of rising discontent over his leadership, and after the abrupt departure of his finance minister signaled growing turmoil within his government. Trudeau said it had become clear to him that he cannot be the leader during the next elections due to internal battles. He planned to stay on as prime minister until a new leader of the Liberal Party is chosen. I dont easily back down faced with a fight, especially a very important one for our party and the country. But I do this job because the interests of Canadians and the well being of democracy is something that I hold dear, he said. An official familiar with the matter said Parliament, which had been due to resume Jan. 27, will be suspended until March 24. The timing will allow for a Liberal Party leadership race. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak about the matter publicly. All three main opposition parties have said they plan to topple the Liberal Party in a no-confidence vote when Parliament resumes, so a spring election to pick a permanent replacement was almost assured. The Liberal Party of Canada is an important institution in the history of our great country and democracy. A new prime minister and leader of the Liberal Party will carry its values and ideals into that next election, Trudeau said. I am excited to see that process unfold in the months ahead. Trudeau came to power in 2015 after 10 years of Conservative Party rule, and had initially been hailed for returning the country to its liberal past. But the 53-year-old scion of one of Canadas most famous prime ministers became deeply unpopular with voters in recent years over a range of issues, including the soaring cost of food and housing, and surging immigration. The political upheaval comes at a difficult moment for Canada internationally. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to impose 25% tariffs on all Canadian goods if the government does not stem what Trump calls a flow of migrants and drugs in the U.S. even though far fewer of each crosses into the U.S. from Canada than from Mexico, which Trump has also threatened. Canada is a major exporter of oil and natural gas to the U.S., which also relies on its northern neighbor for steel, aluminum and autos. Trudeau kept publicly mum in recent weeks, despite intensifying pressure for him to step down. His long silence following this political drama speaks volumes about the weakness of his current position, said Daniel Beland, a political science professor at McGill University in Montreal. Canadas former finance minister, Chrystia Freeland, announced her resignation from Trudeaus Cabinet on Dec. 16., criticizing some of Trudeaus economic priorities in the face of Trumps threats. The move, which came shortly after the housing minister quit, stunned the country and raised questions about how much longer the increasingly unpopular Trudeau could stay in his job. Freeland and Trudeau had disagreed about two recently announced policies: a temporary sales tax holiday on goods ranging from childrens clothes to beer, and plans to send every citizen a check for $250 Canadian ($174). Freeland, who was also deputy prime minister, said Canada could not afford costly political gimmicks in the face of the tariffs threat. Our country is facing a grave challenge, Freeland wrote in her resignation letter. That means keeping our fiscal powder dry today, so we have the reserves we may need for a coming tariff war. Trudeau had been planning to run for a fourth term in next years election, even in the face of rising discontent among Liberal Party members. The party recently suffered upsets in special elections in two districts in Toronto and Montreal that it has held for years. No Canadian prime minister in more than a century has won four straight terms. And based on the latest polls, Trudeaus chances for success looked slim. In the latest poll by Nanos, the Liberals trail the Conservatives 47% to 21%. Over nearly a decade in power, Trudeau embraced an array of causes favored by his liberal base. He spoke in favor of immigration at a time other countries were trying to tighten their borders. He championed diversity and gender equality, appointing a Cabinet that was equal parts men and women. He legalized cannabis. His efforts to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental protection were criticized by both the right and left. He levied a tax on carbon emissions and rescued a stalled pipeline expansion project to get more of Albertas oil to international markets. Fewer people died from COVID-19 in Canada than elsewhere and his government provided massive financial support. But animosity grew among those opposed to vaccine mandates. Flags with Trudeaus name and expletives became a common sight in rural parts. A combination of scandal and unpopular policies damaged his prospects over time. Trudeaus father swept to power in 1968, and led Canada for almost 16 years, becoming a storied name in the countrys history, most notably by opening its doors wide to immigrants. Pierre Trudeau was often compared to John F. Kennedy and remains one of the few Canadian politicians who are recognized in America. Tall and trim, with movie-star looks, Justin Trudeau channeled the star power if not quite the political heft of his father. He became the second-youngest prime minister in Canadas history, and rivals said his age was a liability when he first sought office. But he won a sweeping mandate in a come-from-behind victory in 2015. Trudeau is a former teacher, nightclub bouncer and snowboard instructor who has three children with his now estranged wife. (AP) A standoff between rival government forces outside the presidential compound in South Korea has been a startling development, even for observers used to the countrys famously rough and tumble politics. For weeks, impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol has remained in his compound and refused to respond to detention and search warrants. Scuffles broke out late last week as dozens of investigators were stopped from entering the compound by hundreds of presidential security guards and a barricade. The spectacle followed Yoons astonishing decision last month to impose martial law during a seemingly routine impasse with the opposition, which dominates parliament. Heres a closer view of recent events as well as South Koreas tempestuous political history, which has seen presidents toppled, arrested, jailed and shamed as millions have taken to the streets in protest. Whats the latest? A government agency dedicated to fighting corruption was debating with police more forceful measures to detain Yoon. Dozens of investigators from the agency and police failed last week to bring Yoon into custody following a standoff with his security service. Court warrants have been issued to detain Yoon and to search his residence. The warrants were set to expire on Monday but the anti-corruption agency requested a new warrant aiming to extend the window for Yoons detention. Yoon has been refusing to appear for questioning over his short-lived martial law decree on Dec. 3. He has described his power grab as a necessary act of governance against a liberal opposition that has bogged down his agenda with its legislative majority. He has vowed to fight to the end against efforts to oust him. Martial law lasted only a few hours, but the countrys politics, diplomacy and financial markets have been shaken for weeks. The decree also exposed South Koreas deeply polarized society. Yoons lawyers on Monday filed complaints with public prosecutors against the anti-corruption agencys chief prosecutor, Oh Dong-woon, and six other anti-corruption and police officers for orchestrating Fridays detainment attempt, which they say was illegal. What led to the standoff, and what could come next? Yoons declaration of martial law unleashed a string of political aftershocks. The anti-corruption agency, which is leading a joint investigation with police and the military, has been weighing charges of rebellion after Yoon declared martial law and dispatched troops to surround parliament. Lawmakers who managed to get past the blockade voted to lift martial law hours later. Yoons presidential powers were suspended after parliament voted to impeach him on Dec. 14, accusing him of rebellion. The Constitutional Court has begun deliberations on whether to formally remove Yoon from office or reinstate him. About 150 investigators tried to get Yoon on Friday in a tense standoff with the presidential security service that lasted more than five hours. After getting around a military unit guarding the residences grounds, the agencys investigators and police were able to approach within 200 meters (220 yards) of Yoons residential building but were stopped by a barricade of around 10 vehicles and approximately 200 members of the presidential security forces and troops. In a statement, Park Jong-joon, chief of the presidential security service, hit back against criticism that his organization has become Yoons private army, saying it has a legal obligation to protect the incumbent president. Yoons lawyers said they plan to file complaints against about 150 anti-corruption and police investigators who were involved in Fridays detention attempt. Why is this happening in South Korea? The why is incredibly tricky. But a mix of history and geography have something to do with it. The Koreas have been sandwiched between big powers for millennia, with China, Russia, Japan and the United States all playing parts of a great global game on the peninsula that extends from the east coast of Asia. South Korea is deeply split, with the divisions reaching into many parts of life, from culture to class to gender to politics. Much of the deep political divide can be traced to what happened at the end of World War II, when U.S. and Soviet forces met in the middle of the Korean Peninsula and agreed to divide the land into Washington and Moscow-backed spheres of influence. This solidified into independent rival Koreas in 1948 and then exploded into war and permanent division in 1950. After that, South Korea was run by a string of dictators until democracy came in the late 1980s. Some of the passion evident in South Korean politics can be seen in the turmoil faced by recent presidents, many of whom have been jailed for corruption after leaving office. A particularly sensational moment came in 2016 when millions protested against conservative President Park Geun-hye, who later became the first democratically elected leader to be forced from office since South Korea turned democratic. Park, who was pardoned in late 2021 by her liberal rival and successor, had been serving a lengthy prison term for bribery and other crimes. (AP) Congress certified President-elect Donald Trump as the winner of the 2024 election in proceedings that unfolded Monday without violence or mayhem, in stark contrast to the Jan. 6, 2021, proceedings. Lawmakers convened under heavy security and a snowstorm to meet the date required by law to certify the election, but the legacy of Jan. 6 leaves an extraordinary fact: The candidate who tried to overturn the previous election won this time and is legitimately returning to power. Layers of tall black fencing flank the U.S. Capitol complex in a stark reminder of what happened four years ago. It is the tightest national security level possible. Vice President Kamala Harris, presiding over proceedings as the role of the office, read the tally. The chamber broke into applause, first Republicans for Trump, then Democrats for Harris. The whole process happened swiftly and without unrest. One by one, the state results were read aloud by the tellers as senators and representatives sat in seats in the House chamber. Vice President-elect JD Vance joined his former colleagues. Within half an hour the process was done. Democrats frustrated by Trumps 312-226 Electoral College victory nevertheless accept the choice of the American voters. Trump said in a Monday post online that Congress was certifying a GREAT election victory and called it A BIG MOMENT IN HISTORY. With pomp and tradition, the day unfolded as it has countless times before, with the arrival of ceremonial mahogany boxes filled with the electoral certificates from the states. Harris presided over the counting, as is the requirement for the vice president, and certify her own defeat much the way Democrat Al Gore did in 2001 and Republican Richard Nixon in 1961. There are new procedural rules in place in the aftermath of what happened four years ago. Under changes to the Electoral Count Act, it now requires one-fifth of lawmakers, instead of just one in each chamber, to raise any objections to election results. With security as tight as it is for the Super Bowl or the Olympics, law enforcement is on high alert for intruders. No tourists will be allowed. (AP) TRIPOLI, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- The International Organization for Migration (IOM) on Monday said that 298 migrants were rescued off the coast of Libya in the past week. The migrants, intercepted and returned to Libya from Dec. 29, 2024, to Jan. 4, include 25 women and seven children, IOM said in a statement. In 2024, 21,762 migrants were rescued and returned to Libya, a rise of more than 4,500 from the previous year. The IOM also recorded 674 deaths and 1,015 missing migrants on the Central Mediterranean route in 2024, including those departing from Libya and other countries. Since 2011, many migrants have chosen to cross the Mediterranean Sea to European shores from Libya. The Biden administration is reportedly crafting a January surprise that could severely undermine Israel at the United Nations, echoing the actions of the Obama administration in 2016. According to Michael Doran, senior fellow at the Hudson Institute and a former senior director in the U.S. National Security Council, Bidens team is preparing a move modeled directly on U.N. Resolution 2334, which labeled Israeli settlements beyond the 1967 Green Line as illegal. Speaking on his podcast on Dec. 31, Doran detailed how the administration is poised to declare Israel in violation of U.S. law by allegedly blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza. This finding, rooted in Section 620(i) of the Foreign Assistance Act, could lead to U.N. action against Israel, even if Biden personally waives immediate penalties. The resulting diplomatic fallout, Doran warned, would deliver a severe blow to Israels international standing, with the administration effectively signaling its disapproval while publicly maintaining plausible deniability. Obama delivered a parting kick to Netanyahu in 2016 by allowing U.N. Resolution 2334 to pass without a veto, Doran said. It painted large swathes of Israel, including the Western Wall, as occupied territory. Bidens team is preparing to do the same. According to Doran, the Biden administrations approach mirrors Obamas tactic of letting other nations spearhead the resolution, while the U.S. abstains, enabling hostile international actors to take the lead. Algeria or Slovenia are expected to introduce a new resolution condemning Israel, which the Biden administration may either quietly support or abstain from vetoing at the Security Council. The administration wants to have it both ways, Doran explained. They will find Israel guilty of obstructing aid to Gaza but will waive the consequences, signaling to the U.N. and other international bodies that the U.S. stands aside as Israel faces censure. The fallout, Doran warned, could cascade into the International Criminal Court, the International Court of Justice, and the European Union, all of which could leverage the U.S. finding to justify further action against Israel. Key figures in the administration, including USAID chief Samantha Power, deputy secretary Kurt Campbell, and U.N. envoy deputy Ned Price, are reportedly driving the effort. Others, such as National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, are described as undecided, while a minority within the administration, including Middle East advisers Brett McGurk and Amos Hochstein, are pushing back. There are two camps fighting over this inside the administration, Doran said. The question is whether Biden and Blinken will sign off on it. Doran further noted that the incoming Republican-controlled Congress and Donald Trumps potential return to the White House could disrupt or reverse the administrations plans. Trump previously stood by Israel against U.N. resolutions and brokered several historic peace agreements in the region. The reported scheme underscores deepening divisions within the Biden administration over Middle East policy, with some officials pushing for harsher measures against Israel while others urge caution. Critics argue that such a move risks alienating Israel, one of Americas closest allies, while emboldening hostile actors in the region. This isnt just about Israel, Doran cautioned. Its about projecting weakness to Iran, Hezbollah, and others who see U.S. equivocation as a green light. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) President-elect Donald Trump is preparing to enact severe sanctions against the International Criminal Court (ICC) immediately after taking office, targeting both the institution and its personnel, sources told Yisrael Hayom. The executive orders could be unveiled as early as January 21, just one day after Trumps inauguration. The sanctions will reportedly focus on ICC judges, prosecutors, and staff involved in the issuance of arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Trumps administration plans to classify the ICC as a threat to U.S. national security interests, using the same legal mechanisms typically reserved for terrorist organizations. As part of the sanctions, global financial institutions will be required to sever ties with ICC officials or risk facing U.S. penalties. ICC personnel will see their assets frozen, restricting access to banking services and credit cards, with exceptions only for essential purchases. U.S.-based assets held by the ICC will also be blocked. The Trump administration aims to rally U.S. allies to reject ICC arrest warrants against Israeli officials, hoping to pressure the court to retract them. Officials argue the warrants not only undermine Israels sovereignty but also pose a broader threat to Americas ability to conduct military operations abroad. Senator Tom Cotton, incoming chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, signaled strong support for Trumps stance. The ICC is a kangaroo court, and Karim Khan is a deranged zealot, Cotton said, referencing the ICCs chief prosecutor. Woe to him and anyone who tries to enforce these lawless warrants. Cotton warned that the U.S. is prepared to take aggressive measures, invoking the American Service-Members Protection Act, known as the Hague Invasion Act. Passed in 2002, the law allows the U.S. to use force to free American or allied personnel detained by the ICC. The Trump team views the ICCs actions against Israeli leaders as a dangerous precedent that could eventually extend to American officials, prompting urgent and forceful intervention. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Three Israeli civilians were killed and eight were injured in a shooting attack in the Shomron between Kedumim and Karnei Shomron on Monday morning. At least two armed terrorists opened fire on a bus full of passengers and two cars driving on Route 55, which passes through the Palestinian village of al-Funduq. Three people who were in the cars were killed and eight people on the bus were injured, including the bus driver, 63, who was seriously injured. Two female bus passengers were moderately wounded and five others were lightly injured. MDA paramedics were forced to declare the deaths of two women in their 60s who had been in one car, and a man in his 40s in the second car, at the scene. The other victims were treated at the scene and evacuated to the hospital. The terrorists fled the scene. A large number of IDF forces arrived at the scene and a manhunt was launched, including setting up numerous roadblocks. IDF officials believe that the terrorists escaped to a nearby Palestinian village and troops have surrounded several villages. One of the victims was later identified by Israel Police as Master Sgt. Elad Yaakov Winkelstein, Hyd, a husband and father of two and a resident of Ein HaNatziv, a religious kibbutz in northern Israel. He worked as an investigative officer at the Ariel police station. When the attack began, he opened fire at the terrorists in an attempt to stop them. Sadly, his eight-year-old son who was in the car with him witnessed his fathers death. The other two of the victims of todays terror attack were sisters-in-law Rachel Cohen Hyd, 73, and Eliza Rize, Hyd, age 70. The two women, both residents of Kedumim, were close friends and both had worked as educational consultants before they retired. Rachels daughter Naomi said that her mother was a woman who radiated simcha, chessed and positive energy. She was full of emunah and yiras Shamayim. She was an active and beloved mother and Savta who suffused us with love. She always chose to see the good in her life and thats how she raised us. She still had many plans for her life. She spent her life helping others and was a listening ear to everyone. Elizas son Yair, said: We were planning to make her a surprise party for her 70th birthday next week. She was a woman larger than life. Nothing stopped her. She had incredible willpower and determination that propelled her to accomplish great things in every area. She was a strong woman who always throughout about others and volunteered for the civilian patrol in Kedumim. MDA (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Hamas terrorists in northern Gaza fired three rockets at the city of Sderot late Monday morning. One rocket hit the courtyard of the home of Chabad shluchim in the city, Rabbi Chananel and Tzivia Pizem, causing slight damage. BChasdei Hashem, no one was injured. This was the second time during the war that their home was hit by a rocket and the third overall their home sustained a direct rocket hit during Operation Protective Edge in 2014. The Pizems said that they hadnt yet completed the repairs from the previous rocket impact. Army Radio reported that the rocket fell only 100 meters from a childrens daycare. The children were playing outside the building only minutes before the siren sounded. The IDF said that another rocket was intercepted and a third hit an open area. MDA paramedics evacuated a 68-year-old woman in mild condition to Barzilai Hospital after she was injured on her way to a protected space. An IDF spokesperson stated that following alerts that were activated between 11:11 and 11:12 in Sderot, Ibim [a Jewish village near Sderot], and Nir Oz, three launches were identified crossing from the northern Gaza Strip. The Air Force intercepted one launch, one launch fell in the city of Sderot, and another fell in an open area. There are no casualties. In recent days, Hamas has been regularly targeting Israel with rocket fire. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahus office issued a statement following media reports on Sunday that the Hamas terror group provided a list of 34 hostages to be released in a potential deal. The list of hostages that was published in the media was not provided to Israel by Hamas but was originally transferred by Israel to the mediators in July 2024, the Prime Ministers Office stated. Israel has not yet received any confirmation or comment by Hamas regarding the status of the hostages appearing on the list. Israel will continue to work unceasingly for the return of all of our hostages. However, Kan News reported that Hamas did submit a list of hostages but did not reveal if any of them are alive. The list of hostages that Hamas reportedly sent to Israel and was published in a Saudi news outlet includes the young Bibas children, Ariel, 5, and Kfir, 1, which initially raised hopes in Israel that theyre still alive. Hamas claimed in November 2023 that the Kfir children and their mother Shiri were killed in an IDF strike. Ynet reported on Monday afternoon that a source familiar with the details of the negotiations with Hamas said that there is no decision in Israel yet regarding the departure of Mossad chief Dedi Barnea to Doha. It is already unlikely it will be today. Further progress is needed before he leaves. We hope this will happen in the coming days. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Sergeant Elad Yaakov Winklestein hyd, 35, was murdered in cold blood on Monday morning his eight-year-old son sitting helplessly by his side, forced to witness the horrifying moment his fathers life was taken. Sgt. Winklestein, a police detective from Kibbutz Ein Hanatziv, valiantly managed to fire two shots at the terrorist before succumbing to his injuries. His final moments were marked by bravery, yet the attack leaves behind a grieving family and a child forever scarred by the trauma of seeing his father senselessly killed in front of his eyes. Winklestein is survived by his wife, Tal, and their two sons, Neve and Omer. His parents, Naomi and Yossi, along with his siblings Yonatan, Hadas, and Harel, now face the unimaginable loss of a son and brother whose life was cut short. The levaya for will be held Monday evening at 7:00 p.m., where he will be buried at Mount Herzl. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has urged a final push to secure a hostage-ceasefire deal in Gaza before President Joe Biden leaves office, signaling a narrowing window for negotiations. Blinkens call follows claims from a Hamas official that the terror group has approved the release of 34 hostages under the terms of a potential truce. We very much want to bring this over the finish line in the next two weeks, the time we have remaining, Blinken said at a press conference when asked about the status of the negotiations. Israel has dispatched a delegation of mid-level officials to Qatar for talks mediated by Qatari and Egyptian envoys. Arabic media outlets have speculated that Mossad chief David Barnea, who has spearheaded negotiations, may join the discussions, though the Prime Ministers Office has declined to comment. The looming January 20 inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has intensified pressure on the talks, with Trump warning of hell to pay in the Middle East if the hostages are not released by then, an unofficial but widely recognized deadline. Currently, 96 of the 251 hostages taken by Hamas during the October 7 attacks are believed to remain in Gaza. Among them are at least 34 individuals confirmed dead by the IDF. In addition, Hamas continues to hold the remains of two IDF soldiers killed in 2014 and two Israeli civilians who entered Gaza in 2014 and 2015. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) French President Emmanuel Macron says Iran is the foremost strategic and security threat in the Middle East, pointing to the rapid advancement of its nuclear program and its ongoing support for Russias war in Ukraine. Iran is the main strategic and security challenge for France, the Europeans, the entire region and beyond, Macron said in a speech to ambassadors, adding that Irans actions would be a central topic in upcoming discussions with the incoming U.S. administration of President-elect Donald Trump. Macron expressed worry over Tehrans nuclear ambitions, warning, The acceleration of the nuclear program leads us nearly to the point of no return. Turning to Syria, Macron cautioned against Western complacency following the removal of Bashar al-Assad from power. We must regard the regime change in Syria without naivete, he said, signaling skepticism about the intentions of the new authorities. He pledged unwavering support for Kurdish fighters, whom he praised for their role in battling extremist groups in the region. France will not abandon freedom fighters, like the Kurds, Macron said, reaffirming Pariss commitment to those who have resisted terrorist factions in Syria. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) How can one choose his shirt from a pile of different types of clothing and not transgress borer on Shabbos? What does one do if there is a power outage on Shabbos? Can someone put food in the oven on Shabbos? These and numerous other questions are impossible to answer unless one has a thorough knowledge of the laws of Shabbos. Shabbos comes about once a week, so if a person is not well-versed in its intricacies, then it is inevitable that transgressions will take place. It is wonderful to read one of the many books that give basic laws, but to really understand the halachos and know how to apply them, it is essential to learn Hilchos Shabbos with the background discussion of the Gemara and commentators. What is the challenge we face? It takes several years for a full-time advanced Torah learner to cover the laws of Shabbos in depth, so how can a working man, or one with less advanced skills, begin this seemingly daunting task? Now there is a solution. World famous Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav HaGaon Yitzchak Berkovits shlita used his vast knowledge to arrange all the Gemaras with the commentators on each area of Hilchos Shabbos and presented it in the form of source sheets that cover material from the Gemara until practical halacha. This enables one to cover main opinions in each topic and gain a deep understanding of the halacha. According to Rabbi Berkovits: Learning Hilchos Shabbos from the traditional sources could be quite confusing or complicated. Studying them in a very organized way gives you the clarity, the clarity to understand them in the first place and the clarity to retain the information. This was done for full-time Torah learners who have advanced Hebrew skills and can devote many hours each day to learn. What about busy working Bnei Torah who have limited time to learn but want to properly master Hilchos Shabbos? Or people who are still building up their Gemara skills but want to learn the Gemara sugyas and Halacha? Rabbi Yehonasan Gefen, a close talmid of Rav Berkovits who spent eight years as a Rosh Chaburah in Rav Berkovitss famous Jerusalem Kollel, with the Ravs haskama, took on the monumental task of adapting the Hebrew sheets into English. The material is written with care and with great clarity, as well as including the various opinions in the contemporary practical halacha. For the past several years, Rabbi Gefen has been teaching this material to Torah learners throughout the world, on all levels of learning, and of all ages now as the founder of KinyanHilchosShabbos.com. Participants in each online chabura receive source sheets with explanations both in Hebrew and English, participate in a weekly Zoom shiur and ask questions by phone and email. Many have also successfully gained Smicha through thoroughly learning the material. I would love to sit in Yeshiva half a day, but I have different hours. Says Dr. Eric Leibowitz who is a dentist in Brooklyn. Learning Hilchos Shabbos in Rabbi Gefens online chabura allowed for the flexibility I needed. Id always do Daf Yomi for many years, but always off and on. I was looking for something with some structure and with an end goal. This program enabled me to not only learn, but to retain what I learned in a structured way and the tests were very helpful. I felt like I accomplished something, I made a kinyan on something. Over one thousand past and present participants in our online programs come from five continents and range from working Bnei Torah to full-time Kollel avreichim from Yerushalayim and Lakewood, as well as people who are still developing their Gemara skills, says Rabbi Dr. Yakov Pesah, director of the program and also a musmach of Rabbi Berkovits. Our vision is to enable Bnei Torah to learn halacha in a structured way and make it doable for any motivated person. The program includes a weekly Zoom shiur which is recorded and can be reviewed later, tests on the material covered to enable the individual to evaluate their understanding of the material, and availability by email or phone for questions, clarifications, or further discussions. Rabbi Gefen ran the Hilchos Shabbos program for our Kollel in Johannesburg. We achieved tremendous clarity on Hilchos Shabbos both in sugyas and in psak which is what you want when you learn Halacha. Says Rabbi Micha Kaplan who is an avrech in the Maharsha Community Kollel in Johannesburg and the Menahel of the Maharsha Boys High School. The program includes the option of Smicha which is a wonderful source of pride for the individuals family. But its greatest benefit is that it will ensure that a person can lead his family to observing the laws of Shabbos with all their details. Shlomo Gross who is originally from London and is a lawyer in Yerushalayim shares his experience: For people like me who are working full-time, this program was ideal. I benchmarked the Hilchos Shabbat coourse against the syllabus required for the Smicha exams of the Rabbanut and found that it was at least as comprehensive The Hilchos Shabbat Smicha course transported my learning to a completely different level. Rabbi Berkovits adds: Theres a mitzva of Zachor es yom HaShabbos lkadsho that mitzva is to remember Shabbos all the time. There is nothing like being involved in Hilchos Shabbos the whole week your whole week is different and your Shabbos is different. The program begins on January 22nd. For more information, tuition, and to receive an application visit KinyanHilchosShabbos.com. Nearly a third of small businesses plan to axe staff this year in response to legislation introduced by the new Labour government, data suggests. A poll conducted by the Federation of Small Businesses showed 32 per cent of respondents plan to reduce headcount as a result of the Employments Rights Bill, while 67 per cent say they will recruit fewer new workers. More than 90 per cent of members said they were concerned about the bill, with many citing a fear of getting sued under planned changes to unfair dismissal legislation. The FSB has urged the Government to make urgent changes to the bill, which it says will see Britain's benefits bill soar after nearly half of respondents to its survey claimed they would avoid hiring out-of-work and first job applicants. The Employment Rights Bill is the first phase of delivering Labour's 'Plan to Make Work Pay', and provides support for employers, workers, and unions 'to get Britain moving forward'. The Government says the bill will update and modernise the current legislative framework in relation to employment rights. FSB warns Britain's benefits bill will rise as employers cut back on hiring It has passed its first and second reading, and is now at the committee stage in the House of Commons. The bill will also have to pass the Commons' report and third reading stage, before being submitted to the House of Lords for further scrutiny. The FSB wants the Government to drop provisions within the bill that would allow employees to take employers to a tribunal over unfair dismissal from their first day on the job, according to the trade body. FSB policy chair Tina McKenzie said: 'If employers fear they will be sued, fewer will hire with knock-on effects including a rising benefits bill and a lasting drag on living standards across the UK.' The FSB says Prime Minister Keir Starmer should instead return to a one-year qualifying period for tribunal, which was in place under the last Labour Government. It marks the latest pushback from the business community in the wake of Labour's Autumn Budget, which will see firms paying a higher rate of national insurance contributions and National Living Wage from April. Businesses, particularly those in the hospitality sector, have warned that Chancellor Rachel Reeves' tax plans will see unemployment rise and businesses forced to close. McKenzie added: 'Small firms have made it crystal clear that the Bill will not motivate them to hire more whatsoever. Their feedback is emphatic, resounding, and overwhelming. 'Ministers must show they get the risk to jobs and avoid a cavalier, dogmatic or patronising approach to the loud and clear feedback from small businesses. The economy is in no fit state for a "war on work". 'These changes would have a severe negative impact on the real economy. All those who will be locked out of work as a result of this Bill deserve better from the Government. 'Returning to the one-year qualification period in place under the last Labour Government, is a more balanced approach and a cost-free route for the PM to show he gets it on the importance of creating and sustaining jobs.' BEIJING, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- A stronger and more developed Africa will surely make greater contribution to world peace and development, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Monday. Spokesperson Guo Jiakun made the remarks when responding to a relevant question at a press conference. Guo said that China and Africa share time-honored friendship. The Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) was successfully held in 2024 and China-Africa relations entered the new phase of an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, this week officially started his visit to four African countries, which also marks the 35th year for the Chinese foreign ministers to make Africa their first overseas destination at the start of the year. The fine tradition for Chinese foreign ministers to start their year-round overseas visits with a trip to Africa speaks to the growing profound friendship between China and Africa and the continuity of China's friendly cooperation with Africa, Guo said. "China always believes that Africa is never 'the lost continent,' but the land of hope and source of dynamism." Guo pointed out that Africa betters global governance with the power of transformation. He said under the guidance of Pan-Africanism, African countries have accelerated the integration process of seeking strength through unity and pursuing development and revitalization, playing an increasingly important role in international affairs. Africa powers global economic growth, Guo said, adding the African Development Bank predicted that Africa's average growth would rise to 3.7 percent in 2024, exceeding the projected global average. Among the 20 fastest growing economies in the world, 10 are African countries. The spokesperson said that Africa is one of the birthplaces of the civilization of mankind, and also a land full of vigor and hope, with 70 percent of its population under the age of 30, the youngest in the world. Amid the transformation in the world unseen in a century, the booming development of the Global South, such as China and Africa, has a profound impact on world historical progress, Guo said. "A stronger and more developed Africa will surely make greater contribution to world peace and development." Baillie Gifford US Growth has followed investment trust peers in urging shareholders to reject a boardroom overhaul proposed by activist Saba Capital. Saba proposes to replace Baillie Gifford US Growth's current board with Boaz Weinstein, its founder and chief investment officer, and Miriam Khasidy, a former director at alternative investment manager Pantechnicon Capital. It also intends to offer shareholders 'long-overdue liquidity options' and the potential for 'greater long-term returns' under a new investment strategy and manager. Saba sent shockwaves through Britain's investment trust sector last month when it launched an attempted overhaul of seven funds in which it has built a substantial stake. The hedge fund has criticised each trust's board and investment manager for what it describes as a failure to tackle recent performance woes and a persistent discount to net asset value. However, Baillie Gifford US Growth told investors on Monday that Saba's proposed changes are 'substantial, self-serving and destructive'. It is urging investors to vote against all Saba's resolutions at an upcoming general meeting on 3 February. The Edinburgh-based trust said Saba's plans 'lack detail, with potential material conflicts of interest' and could lead to a 'potential substantial increase' in its ongoing fund charges. Baillie Gifford US Growth noted that Saba's publicly-available funds had charges around twice as high as its own and had underperformed the company over 'most recognised measurement periods'. Target: Edinburgh-based Baillie Gifford US Growth Trust has become the latest firm targeted by Saba Capital to resist the activist investor's attempts to sack its board Up to the end of last year, Baillie Gifford US Growth said the trust had achieved a 180.1 per cent return for shareholders since its initial public offering in 2018. Meanwhile, the Saba Closed-End Funds ETF had only returned 125.8 per cent since Saba started managing the fund in March 2017. Some of the world's most famous and profitable technology businesses, including Amazon, Nvidia, and Meta Platforms, form part of the Baillie Gifford trust's holdings. Tom Burnet, the group's non-executive chair, said: 'Baillie Gifford's global reputation provides it with preferential access to the US growth companies of tomorrow, so the future of this company is bright. 'Saba wants to subvert all of this. Their proposals lack detail and, if implemented, could destroy the board's independence, radically alter the investment strategy of the company and prove highly disruptive to shareholder value. 'We urge all shareholders to make their voices heard and to vote against Saba's self-serving and destructive proposals.' The investment trust is one of seven London-listed firms targeted by Saba, which wants to remove their boards and change their investment managers and mandates. Alongside Baillie Gifford, those affected are CQS Natural Resources Growth & Income, Edinburgh Worldwide, European Smaller Companies, Henderson Opportunities, Herald Investment Trust, and Keystone Positive Change. New York-based Saba is the biggest investor in all seven trusts, with holdings of between 19 per cent and 29 per cent, having built up significant positions throughout the last year. Baillie Gifford US Growth is currently sitting on a discount to NAV of just 0.93 per cent, having narrowed significantly from around 10 per cent for much of 2024 and more than 20 per cent for the majority of 2023. Its shares have added 61.7 per cent over the last year, compared to an average peer return of 22.7 per cent, according to the Association of Investment Companies. However, they have fallen 9 per cent over the last three years. London-listed Keystone also expressed opposition to Saba's plans on Monday, with its chair, Karen Brade, saying she was 'appalled' by the group's 'actions and conduct'. She added: 'We believe its proposed resolutions would be highly detrimental to the interests of all other shareholders. 'Be under no illusion we believe this US hedge fund manager is acting opportunistically, seeking to seize control of the board without a controlling shareholding, to pursue its own agenda.' Her words come three days after Herald urged its shareholders to vote against Saba's plans and about a fortnight after European Smaller Companies advised its investors to do the same. ISTANBUL, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Nearly 25,000 family physicians from Family Health Centers (ASMs) across Turkiye launched a five-day strike on Monday, demanding better working conditions and fairer pay. The strike, involving over 8,000 ASMs, centers on a newly-issued, more stringent regulation that links payment to specific performance targets, which many physicians protest are virtually unattainable, according to a press release by the Istanbul Family Physicians Association. The performance-based "Family Medicine Payment and Contract Regulation" came into effect on Nov. 1, 2024. Ayse Tunc, a board member of the association, told Xinhua that under the regulation, physicians are penalized for factors beyond their control, such as patient ratings, the number of patients they see, and antibiotics prescribing. According to Tunc, the strike, with ASMs halting services across the country until Jan. 10, has led to overcrowded emergency rooms, as patients now have to flock to hospitals for treatment. "With appointments already full in hospitals, emergency units have become the only option for many ... overwhelming the system, according to our association's observation on Monday," Tunc said. ASMs serve as primary care centers, managing routine and preventive care to alleviate pressure on Turkish healthcare facilities. The latest strike followed two similar ones in November and December 2024 by family physicians, which lasted three and five days, respectively. CHANGCHUN, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- The Northeast China Tiger and Leopard Culture International Communication Center was launched Monday in Jilin Province, as authorities aim to spotlight wildlife conservation. Established through a partnership between the management bureau of the Northeast China Tiger and Leopard National Park and Jishi Media, a media corporation based in Jilin, the center will leverage rare footage of tigers, leopards, and other wildlife collected through the park's monitoring system. The content has been shared across global social media platforms to engage a wider audience and raise awareness about the park's conservation work, the center said. You Zhiqiang, general manager of Jishi Media, said the center will create a strong "cultural brand" for the Siberian tigers and Amur leopards in northeast China through communication channel development, international collaboration and other efforts. China officially established the Northeast China Tiger and Leopard National Park in 2021. Spanning Heilongjiang and Jilin provinces, the park now provides a sanctuary for around 70 wild Siberian tigers and 80 Amur leopards. The park's wildlife monitoring system, largely developed by Jishi Media, includes nearly 28,000 infrared cameras, fire-prevention technologies and AI-driven analytics. The center is also developing new technologies to achieve individual identification of wild Siberian tigers. Siberian tigers, also known as Amur tigers, are primarily found in Russia's Far East and northeast China. They are one of the world's most endangered species and a flagship species of the forest ecosystem, with only 12 to 16 believed to have been living wild in China in 1998. PHNOM PENH, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- A military police deputy chief and another officer in southern Cambodia's Takeo province were arrested last week for accepting bribes from drug traffickers and illegal gamblers, a National Military Police spokesperson said on Monday. Brigadier General Eng Hy said the two suspects were "caught for taking bribes in exchange for not cracking down on a seven-kg drug case and illegal gambling, as well as for leaking the secret of the investigation," he said in a press statement. Hy added that the two suspects were sent to the Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) on Sunday for further legal action. SEOUL, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's anti-corruption investigative agency said Monday that it entrusted the police with the task of executing a warrant to arrest the impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) said that it sent an official document on Sunday night to leave the arrest warrant execution to the discretion of the National Office of Investigation (NOI). The CIO and the NOI investigated Yoon's martial law imposition together with the defense ministry's investigation headquarters. The CIO investigators and police officers attempted to arrest the impeached president in the presidential residence on Jan. 3, but it failed as the presidential security service blocked the execution of the arrest warrant that was issued by a Seoul court. The warrant was scheduled to be valid for a week until Monday. The impeachment motion against Yoon was passed in the National Assembly on Dec. 14 last year and was delivered to the constitutional court to deliberate it for up to 180 days, during which Yoon's presidential power is suspended. Yoon, who was named by investigative agencies as a suspected ringleader on insurrection charge, declared a martial law on the night of Dec. 3, which was revoked by the National Assembly hours later. Artists of China Oriental Performing Arts Group stage the performance Dance of Oriental at Los Angeles' Music Center in California, the United States, on Jan. 4, 2025. (Photo by Qiu Chen/Xinhua) by Julia Pierrepont III, Gao Shan LOS ANGELES, Jan. 5 (Xinhua) -- The iconic Dorothy Chandler Pavilion at Los Angeles' Music Center on Saturday night hosted a full house, where an enthusiastic audience applauded the captivating, one-night-only performance of Dance of Oriental. Dance of Oriental features an ensemble of acclaimed dancers from the renowned China Oriental Performing Arts Group (COPAG), a revered national institution known for performing on some of the world's most prestigious stages. Presented by Oever, a California-based cultural and media company dedicated to preserving and reinterpreting Chinese heritage, the program blended classical and folk dances, each infused with poetic choreography and a centuries-old storytelling tradition through movement. The performances celebrated the richness of Chinese culture while fostering cross-cultural understanding and friendships between the United States and China. A highlight of the evening was a selection from the internationally acclaimed dance drama The Journey of a Legendary Landscape Painting. This piece interprets the 1113 AD painting Panorama of Rivers and Mountains by Ximeng Wang, glorifying China's natural beauty. Blending dance, music, visual art, and poetic imagination, the performance paid homage to Wang's masterpiece. The dancers wore ethereal blue costumes, with hairstyles and movements alternating between the fluidity of rivers and the abrupt majesty of towering cliffs. Having toured over 70 cities, including international stops in Singapore and Turkiye, the production has delivered over 600 performances to enthusiastic audiences. "The Chinese are famous for their level of artistry and creativity, and the meticulous attention to every detail of this performance was truly remarkable," said Dave, a dance enthusiast and former Dreamworks employee. Other notable performances included Jasmine, a lyrical dance with floral parasols evoking the beauty of southern China's water towns; Four Practices of Chinese Medicine, a humorous translation of traditional healing practices into dance; Ink on Water, a tribute to Chinese calligraphy and ink-wash painting; Flying Apsaras, inspired by Dunhuang murals and the Silk Road; Far and Beyond, a nod to digital innovation and scientific exploration; and Green and Gaba (Fish Movements), which celebrated the Dai people's aquatic heritage. "I enjoyed the adroit and layered interplay of dance, music, costumes and backdrops," Paolo, an avid dance aficionado, told Xinhua. "It may have originated in China, but the whole night had an international and timeless feel to it." Many of the audience praised the dancers for their "effortless" grace and gravity-defying leaps that come from years of intense dedication. "I couldn't understand all the cultural nuances, but it made me realize Chinese and American cultures were not so different and the elegance and sophistication of the performance transported me to a world of beauty and delight," said Katherine, a University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) graduate. Meng Shi, one of Oever's co-founders, said "Chinese culture is deeply rooted in history while thriving in contemporary contexts." "We believe culture transcends borders and time with the power to connect people, regardless of their origins and cultural backgrounds," said her partner-founder Yanbing Bo. Shi noted that COPAG has performed in major U.S. cities such as San Diego and Los Angeles and will soon take the stage in New York City. "The tour opens a new window for cultural exchanges and mutual learning between China and the United States, allowing more American audiences to appreciate the beauty of traditional Chinese culture," she said. Artists of China Oriental Performing Arts Group rehearse for the performance Dance of Oriental at Los Angeles' Music Center in California, the United States, on Jan. 4, 2025. (Photo by Qiu Chen/Xinhua) Artists of China Oriental Performing Arts Group rehearse for the performance Dance of Oriental at Los Angeles' Music Center in California, the United States, on Jan. 4, 2025. (Photo by Qiu Chen/Xinhua) Artists of China Oriental Performing Arts Group rehearse for the performance Dance of Oriental at Los Angeles' Music Center in California, the United States, on Jan. 4, 2025. (Photo by Qiu Chen/Xinhua) Artists of China Oriental Performing Arts Group stage the performance Dance of Oriental at Los Angeles' Music Center in California, the United States, on Jan. 4, 2025. (Photo by Qiu Chen/Xinhua) Artists of China Oriental Performing Arts Group rehearse for the performance Dance of Oriental at Los Angeles' Music Center in California, the United States, on Jan. 4, 2025. (Photo by Qiu Chen/Xinhua) A drone photo taken on Jan. 4, 2025 shows villagers planting mangroves at the Zhangjiangkou National Mangrove Nature Reserve in Yunxiao County, southeast China's Fujian Province. Located in the estuary of the Zhangjiang river, the Zhangjiangkou National Mangrove Nature Reserve covers an area of 2,360 hectares. It was listed as one of the Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 2008. (Xinhua/Lin Shanchuan) An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 4, 2025 shows a view of the Zhangjiangkou National Mangrove Nature Reserve in Yunxiao County, southeast China's Fujian Province. Located in the estuary of the Zhangjiang river, the Zhangjiangkou National Mangrove Nature Reserve covers an area of 2,360 hectares. It was listed as one of the Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 2008. (Xinhua/Lin Shanchuan) An aerial drone panorama taken on Jan. 4, 2025 shows a view of the Zhangjiangkou National Mangrove Nature Reserve in Yunxiao County, southeast China's Fujian Province. Located in the estuary of the Zhangjiang river, the Zhangjiangkou National Mangrove Nature Reserve covers an area of 2,360 hectares. It was listed as one of the Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 2008. (Xinhua/Lin Shanchuan) A staff member (1st L) briefs visitors on plants at the Zhangjiangkou National Mangrove Nature Reserve in Yunxiao County, southeast China's Fujian Province, Jan. 4, 2025. Located in the estuary of the Zhangjiang river, the Zhangjiangkou National Mangrove Nature Reserve covers an area of 2,360 hectares. It was listed as one of the Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 2008. (Xinhua/Lin Shanchuan) An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 4, 2025 shows a view of the Zhangjiangkou National Mangrove Nature Reserve in Yunxiao County, southeast China's Fujian Province. Located in the estuary of the Zhangjiang river, the Zhangjiangkou National Mangrove Nature Reserve covers an area of 2,360 hectares. It was listed as one of the Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 2008. (Xinhua/Lin Shanchuan) A drone photo taken on Jan. 4, 2025 shows birds flying at the Zhangjiangkou National Mangrove Nature Reserve in Yunxiao County, southeast China's Fujian Province. Located in the estuary of the Zhangjiang river, the Zhangjiangkou National Mangrove Nature Reserve covers an area of 2,360 hectares. It was listed as one of the Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 2008. (Xinhua/Lin Shanchuan) Tonight we wanted to check in one last time for Sunday night as angel Candice offers a testament to the legacy of corporate skivvies and inspires our reading selections from pop culture, community reporting and top headlines. Check TKC news gathering . . . Local Good Deeds Amid Blizzard Volunteers brave snow to ensure Kansas City first responders can keep serving A group of volunteers stepped up Sunday to support Kansas City first responders by providing rides to work. Late Night Journalism Promises Up to 8 more inches of snow is expected overnight. How much has Kansas City seen so far? A winter storm that produced blizzard conditions has already dumped many inches of snow on the Kansas City area. More snow is on the way. Snowbound Cowtown Live Updates: Winter weather creates travel nightmare in Kansas City Snow and ice are already wreaking havoc throughout the Kansas City area on Saturday night, and even more winter weather is coming overnight through Sunday evening. Upkeep On Ur Pipes Protect your pipes: Tips to prevent freezing as temperatures drop A frozen pipe can cause extensive water damage to an unprepared home. Make sure you're taking the necessary precautions. Tundra Testimony Across Bridge 'Complete chaos.' Brothers describe Northland traffic jam as blizzard rolled into KC metro Kansas City residents Cameron and Carson Tate describe their ordeal in a Northland traffic jam on I-35 Saturday night near Liberty. Angel Retrospective Redux Candice Swanepoel stuns as she strips off to red lace lingerie VICTORIA'S Secret beauty Candice Swanepoel stripped to festive lace lingerie as she posed for a sizzling new shoot. The catwalk queen flashed her rippling abs in a red lace bra and thong, pai... Prez Pens More Free Money Biden signs bill that raises Social Security payments for millions of Americans President Joe Biden on Sunday signed into law a measure that boosts Social Security payments for current and former public employees, affecting nearly 3 million people who receive pensions from their time as teachers, firefighters, police officers and in other public service jobs. MAGA Vs. Insurrection Charges 'Deck chairs on the Titanic': How Trump already upended DOJ's ongoing efforts to arrest and prosecute January 6 rioters | CNN Politics President-elect Donald Trump hasn't been sworn in yet, but his looming return has already upended hundreds of pending prosecutions against his supporters who attacked the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, and has disrupted the ongoing effort to arrest more rioters. White House Power Play Display All five living US presidents expected to come together to mourn Jimmy Carter Biden set to lead tributes at funeral service but cameras likely to be trained on Trump Democracy Do-Over Debated Congress counts electoral votes tomorrow. What to know as lawmakers finalize the 2024 presidential election results. Several changes to the electoral vote count have been enacted since a violent mob of Trump supporters stormed the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Progressive Clap Back Pelosi says violence of Jan. 6 Capitol attack 'didn't end that day' Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) said Sunday that the violence of the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol "didn't end that day." "It didn't end that day," Pelosi told CBS News's Margaret Brennan on "Face the Nation." "As you know, [President-elect Trump] called out to these people to continue their violence, my... Documenting American Attacker Who is Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the man the FBI says planned New Orleans terror attack Jabbar was a 42-year-old Army veteran from Texas. Politics Beyond Belief Faith on the Hill Christians will make up 87% of voting members in the Senate and House of Representatives, combined, in the 2025-27 congressional session. Holy Land Deal Debated Hamas approves Israeli list of hostages for potential exchange: Reuters | CNN Hamas has approved an Israeli list of 34 hostages to be exchanged in a possible ceasefire deal, Reuters reported, citing a Hamas official. War Against Vlad Cont'd Ukraine will ask allies to boost its air defenses at a meeting in Germany, Zelenskyy says Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says he will again call on allies to boost his country's air defenses at a meeting this week in Germany. Far East Fights Power South Korean police asked to execute arrest warrant for impeached president Investigators from the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials and police are probing allegations that Yoon masterminded insurrection. Workers Confront Corporate Tease Managers are carrot-and-sticking candidates with remote work to get people to sign on at lower salaries One employee benefits expert said this trend could lead to a second Great Resignation. Check Playbook For Kelce Joe Alwyn Reflects on Moving on From Taylor Swift Breakup: "That's Something for Other People to Do" Joe Alwyn discusses moving on and focusing on life after his breakup with Taylor Swift in a recent interview. Weatherman Tours KC Blizzard Cantore Shares Kansas City Road Conditions - Videos from The Weather Channel Meteorologist Jim Cantore says, "It's not going to end well." Massive delays at Kansas City airport and road conditions have a long way to go before travel is recommended again. - Videos from The Weather Channel | weather.com Raunchy Talker With Local Comedy Club KU Connection Earns Hollywood Spotlight Nikki Glaser Roasts Timothee Chalamet's Mustache and Diddy Parties in Golden Globes Monologue: 'Stanley Tucci Freak-off Doesn't Have the Same Ring to It' Nikki Glaser roasted Timothee Chalamet's mustache, 'Dune 2' and Diddy parties in her hilarious Golden Globes monologue. Joe Lauria Blogs Out Blizzard Joe's Blog: It's here and it's nasty out there (SUN-1/5) All week long I was confounded by the length of time that it would take to transition from sleet/ice to snow. Considering the storm's strength and track, which were classic for Kansas City to... And this is the OPEN THREAD for right now. This post and info was sparked by debate amongst the TKC comments. To wit . . . ANOTHER MISSED FIELD GOAL INSPIRES FEAR FROM SOME KANSAS CITY CHIEFS FANS AFTER THE CHAMPION KICKER RETURNS FROM SURGERY!!! There's no denying his importance to the team . . .Which is why he's the highest paid kicker in the league. However . . . We notice questions starting to emerge with a bit of political flavor that taunts the staunch conservative now in need of compassion, understanding and empathy that he never really provided to his partisan opposition . . . Check-it . . . "Butker was blanked, just like the rest of his team. The kicker will finish the regular season having gone 21-for-24 on field-goal tries while making 29 of 31 extra-point attempts over 13 games." Another local outlet writes . . . "Whether you find yourself quite worried or just shrugging your shoulders at questions about Harrison Butker's reliability these days, there's no denying that it's now a talking point after watching him miss wide left on a makeable field goal. "Ever since he's come back from injury, Butker has missed 2 of 5 field goals and an extra point." Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . . Chiefs' Harrison Butker: Little action in blowout loss Chiefs' Harrison Butker: Little action in blowout loss 7 meaningful musings from a meaningless Chiefs loss to the Broncos The Kansas City Chiefs played a game on Sunday afternoon. To be honest, that's about as much as anyone can confidently take away from Week 18 in terms of analys Developing . . . Today there's a fight for the narrative regarding snow removal. To wit . . . KANSAS CITY MAYOR Q CONFRONTS AN AVALANCHE OF CRITICISM FOR SNOW REMOVAL FAIL!!! To counter the hateration Mayor Q and his team are taking to social media in order to spin the narrative. To be fair, the blizzard caused chaos in most metro cities and currently KCMO is still in the process of digging out. However . . . The complaint is that KCMO isn't exactly "world-class" when it comes to snow removal and local roads should be better than our neighbors in po'dunk small towns. Accordingly . . . We'll start with this morning's word from Mayor Q quoted by BEST & BRIGHTEST TKC READERS and then share a bit more info with a focus on what our blog community has to say . . . Check-it: Following the largest snow event in a generation, Kansas Citys workers have plowed thousands of lane miles. That effort continues today. Please remain off streets if you can. Our snow removal operation moves on today to salting to melt and prevent refreezing. Report problem spots to 311 or on the MyKCMOApp. Kansas City crews continue working on storm response for all 24 hours until further notice. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . . Snow piles up across the Kansas City metro as schools, government offices and businesses close School districts have canceled class Monday, and city halls around the metro will be closed as snow continues to accumulate. The city's warming shelters are open, and RideKC buses are serving as warming spaces as well. Kansas City's icy and snowy roads remain, bitter cold Monday Our area won't see temperatures above freezing for at least the next 10 days. LIVE BLOG: Snowfall is out, extreme cold is in as crews work to clear the roads Follow along with our live blog for regular updates on snow cleanup efforts across the metro. Joe's Blog: More snow possible this week (MON-1/6) The snow path was very much west to east, close to the I-70 corridor. Now, 42% of the country is covered in some snow this morning KCMO leaders urge residents to stay indoors as crews work to clear roads Kansas City, Missouri, city leaders urge residents to stay indoors as blizzard continues into Monday. Cities that rarely get snow are getting more than a foot in frigid 'arctic outbreak' Winter Storm Blair will dump snow and freezing rain on areas including Washington DC, meteorologists warn. MAPS: Traffic and road conditions across the Kansas City metro See how traffic is on Kansas City highways, interstates and where plows are in area cities across the metro as Winter Storms cross the metro Developing . . . SEOUL, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Top diplomats of South Korea and the United States held talks in Seoul Monday to reaffirm their alliance following the impeachment of South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol. South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul told a joint press conference with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken that they reaffirmed no gap in the South Korea-U.S. alliance, saying the efforts for the alliance will continue under any government both in the United States and South Korea. Cho noted that the two allies will continue to move forward by closely coordinating all policies and steps in solidarity after the inauguration of the Donald Trump administration. Blinken arrived here Sunday, becoming the first high-level U.S. official to visit the Asian nation after the impeachment of Yoon last month over his short-lived martial law imposition. Regarding the impeachment, the U.S. diplomat reiterated the U.S. confidence in South Korea's democratic resilience, reaffirming the unwavering U.S. support for the South Korean people and the country. Credit to our TKC blog community for sharing an important moment and remembrance of local broadcast history. Readers sent this note our way and it's worth a moment to consider . . . Bethesda, Maryland - Torey Southwick, 94, a popular Kansas City radio and television personality, passed away Saturday, December 21, 2024, following a short battle with pneumonia. Torey started his broadcasting career on the radio as a disc jockey at the age of 19 in Detroit, MI, where he was born in 1930. He soon moved to Kansas City where he had popular radio shows and children's television shows (along with his puppet "Ol' Gus") for more than a decade. His shows, "Torey Time" every weekday morning and "Torey & Friends" every afternoon, consistently topped the KC ratings over national shows like The Today Show, Captain Kangaroo and The Mike Douglas Show. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . Legacy.com: Torey Southwick Obituary Inspired by the glory days of the angels . . . We share this Sunday walk by way of pop culture, community reporting and top headlines. Check TKC news gathering . . . Cowtown Weather Milestone Earned Officially a blizzard in Kansas City. What does that mean? The last time the weather in Kansas City was severe enough to be considered a blizzard was in November of 2018. Airport Offers Excuses United Airlines explains issue behind Chiefs' delayed flight to Denver The Kansas City Chiefs arrived at Empower Field at Mile High Stadium in Denver for Sunday's game. Reporting Rock Chalk C-List KU grad Nikki Glaser making Hollywood history as host of this year's Golden Globes St. Louis native Nikki Glaser, who broke into comedy in KC while at KU, is a Taylor Swift fan who is hosting the Golden Globes solo 1/5/25. Cold Weather Tragedy Reporting Investigation opened as missing woman found deceased during winter storm A death investigation has been opened after a missing woman was found in Kansas City as extreme winter weather impacted the region. Defining Moment On Local Streets Video shows semi-truck driver avoiding cars while sliding on Kansas City highway A quick-reacting semi-truck driver avoided slamming into other motorists Saturday as the truck slid down the highway. Time To Put Cash In Panties?!? Why Fast-paced Mover Victoria's Secret (VSCO) Is a Great Choice for Value Investors If you are looking for stocks that have gained strong momentum recently but are still trading at reasonable prices, Victoria's Secret (VSCO) could be a great choice. It is one of the several stocks that passed through our 'Fast-Paced Momentum at a Bargain' screen. Debating Democratic Party Double Take Chuck Schumer confronted with old clip of himself declaring Biden's decline 'right-wing propaganda' Sen. Chuck Schumer was confronted with clip of himself confidently defending President Biden against concerns about his mental acuity on Sunday during "Meet the Press." First Lady Tribute Coming Soon Melania Trump documentary coming to Amazon Prime The movie began filming last month and is currently scheduled for a 2025 release. Eastern Europe War Cont'd Ukraine launches new offensive in Russia's Kursk region The Russian Defence Ministry says efforts to fight back against Ukrainian forces are continuing. World Against Holy Land?!? Israeli soldiers face growing risk of arrest abroad after Gaza service | CNN A former Israeli soldier who was on vacation in Brazil has fled the country suddenly after a case was brought against him there alleging he was responsible for war crimes while serving in Gaza. American Snow Storm 2025 'Hunker down': See snow forecast as states in Midwest, East hit with winter storm More than 60 million people across over a dozen states will be impacted by a major winter storm through Monday evening. El Papa Pleads For Mercy Pope on wars: No more striking schools and hospitals Pope Francis didn't specify the situation in Gaza, but urged the international community to defend humanitarian laws. Gift Of Life From Locals Missouri family honored in Rose Parade encourages people to become organ donors There are lots of parades that ring in the new year. One of the oldest and largest is the Rose Parade in California. More Weather Deets . . . Kansas City's winter storm is here Here's the timeline and expected ice and snow amounts: Some parts of the viewing area could see a foot of snow. Elvis Presley - Put Your Hand In The Hand is the song of the day and this is the OPEN THREAD for right now. We almost missed this New Year's resolution from our favorite Kansas City hipster magazine. The main point . . . KANSAS CITY'S FORMERLY LEADING ALTERNATIVE MAGAZINE DECLARES DISINTEREST WITH POLITICAL FIGHTING AT THE OUTSET OF THE MAGA ERA!!! We're not sure if that's a good biz move given that bands can do their own publicity and political action committees have muscled in on local lifestyle reporting by tricking college students with a promise of a future in politics in return for DECADES of volunteering. Still . . . The Pitch hasn't filed a decent political report in about two years . . . Actually, their political coverage has been lacking since they lost their last real reporter. Nowadays . . . The mag farms out it's political coverage from the local news cartel but every once in awhile offers some decent freelancer a chance to shine. Nevertheless . . . What we like about this declaration is that it captures the frustration of so many younger Kansas City voters who aren't crying "liberal tears" but actively looking for a way to subvert the status quo -- A prospect that might seem dangerous to both progressives & conservatives. Check-it . . . Politics is over. Or at least politics is over as a useful concept, in the way many of us once approached it. What did the idea of politics mean to you? Was it just elections? Was it candidates? Was it seeing a group that more or less shared some of your perspectives? Was politics just the process of voting? Was politics leaving one news channel on all day while you allowed pundits to make your blood boil over your enemies in a manufactured culture warlassoing fears and uncertainty to keep your adrenaline raging? Was politics lecturing people online? Politics in all these forms have failed us. They have allowed us to fail each other. They have created, not racial, economic, or class divides, but a full split down the middle of reality. The systems and institutions that were once the levers of power guiding America have spent most of my lifetime slowly grinding to a halt. The government is not getting anything done, because internal strife and performative pandering have made consensus impossible. Even the leaders of both legislative parties have proven themselves to be scattered, confused, and obsessed with platforms that are little more than platitudes. Politics has failed us . . . Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . Major U.S. snowstorm to bring snow, ice and wind, but will it have an impact on flights from Toronto Pearson Airport? BEIJING, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, on Monday called for resolutely winning the tough, protracted and all-out battle against corruption. Xi, also Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, emphasized rigorous Party governance with the spirit of reform when addressing the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan (R) shakes hands with Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi at a joint press conference in Ankara, Turkiye, on Jan. 6, 2025. Fidan discussed with Safadi here on Monday the situation in Syria and its reconstruction. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua) ANKARA, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan discussed with his Jordanian counterpart Ayman Safadi here on Monday the situation in Syria and its reconstruction. The two officials discussed steps to "revive" Syria, especially in the sectors of transport, agriculture, and food security, and formulated a road map, Fidan told a joint press conference attended by Safadi in Ankara. The Turkish foreign minister said that there has been close coordination with Safadi and other Jordanian officials since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's government in Syria on Dec. 8, 2024. On counterterrorism efforts, Fidan stressed the importance of preventing a resurgence of the Islamic State. Fidan also reiterated Turkiye's demand for the Syrian Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) to disarm. "Conditions in Syria have changed. We believe it's only a matter of time before the YPG is eliminated," he said. Safadi echoed Turkiye's security concerns, affirming Jordan's support for Ankara's stance against the YPG, which Turkiye considers as the Syrian branch of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). He also voiced opposition to foreign interference in Syria, stating, "We reject any attacks on Syria's independence and sovereignty. The security and stability of Syria are directly tied to the security of neighboring countries like Jordan and Turkiye." Safadi also criticized Israel's attacks on Syrian territories, calling them "dangerous and unjust." Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan (R) and Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi attend a joint press conference in Ankara, Turkiye, on Jan. 6, 2025. Fidan discussed with Safadi here on Monday the situation in Syria and its reconstruction. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua) Welcome Guest! You are here: Home AMR could kill 39 mn people by 2050 Millions of lives are at stake due to use of Antimicrobial Resistance or AMR, also called as Superbugs, but these lives could be averted by better healthcare and invention of new antibiotics Monday January 6, 2025 11:02 AM , ummid.com News Network London: Millions of lives are at stake due to use of Antimicrobial Resistance or AMR, also called as Superbugs, but these lives could be averted by better healthcare and invention of new antibiotics, The Guardian reported. What is AMR? Antimicrobials including antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitics are medicines used to prevent and treat infectious diseases in humans, animals and plants, according to Wold Health Organisation (WHO). Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites no longer respond to antimicrobial medicines. As a result of drug resistance, antibiotics and other antimicrobial medicines become ineffective and infections become difficult or impossible to treat, increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness, disability and death. AMR is a natural process that happens over time through genetic changes in pathogens. Its emergence and spread is accelerated by human activity, mainly the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials to treat, prevent or control infections in humans, animals and plants. AMR Impact AMR affects countries in all regions and at all income levels. But, deaths linked to drug resistance are declining among very young children, driven by improvements in vaccination and hygiene, the study found the opposite trend for older people. By the middle of the century, 1.91 million people a year are forecast to die worldwide directly because of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in which bacteria evolve so that the drugs usually used to fight them no longer work, up from 1.14 million in 2021. AMR will play some role in 8.2 million deaths annually, up from 4.71 million, The Guardian said citing the study, published in the Lancet. "1st global analysis of AMR trends" Conducted by the Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance (Gram) Project it is the first global analysis of AMR trends over time. Researchers used data from 204 countries and territories to produce estimates of deaths from 1990 to 2021, and forecasts running through to 2050. Antimicrobial medicines are one of the cornerstones of modern healthcare, and increasing resistance to them is a major cause for concern", the study author, Dr Mohsen Naghavi, at the University of Washingtons Institute of Health Metrics (IHME), said. These findings highlight that AMR has been a significant global health threat for decades and that this threat is growing, he added. The study, which involved more than 500 researchers from institutions around the world, found a remarkable decline in AMR deaths among children under 5 from 488,000 to 193,000 between 1990 and 2022. They are set to halve again by 2050. The UK daily also said that health experts are meeting in New York this month to discuss the serious matter, during the UNs general assembly. Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Welcome Guest! You are here: Home India registers first HMPV positive patient in Bengaluru An 8-month-old baby was found to be positive with HMPV in Bengaluru, making it the first such case in India Monday January 6, 2025 11:52 AM , ummid.com News Network [Representative image] Bengaluru: An 8-month-old baby was found to be positive with HMPV in Bengaluru, making it the first such case in India. What is said as the first case of HMPV positive patient in India came to notice in Baptist Hospital in the northern part of the city. The Karnataka Health Department however clarified the sample was not tested in their labs. The Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not a new virus as it was first detected in 2001 in the Netherlands, and Cambodia also detected the disease among children between 2007 and 2009, the MoH said. Health experts however were alarmed after it was recently detected in China leading to crowded hospitals and widespread panic. China has also downplayed the world's concerns, passing it off as an "annual occurrence in winter". 'No travel history' Bengaluru reported first HMPV positive case days after authorities in India said there's nothing to worry about. The child, whose sample was collected on January 02, does not have any travel history. The case was conveyed to the Union Health Ministry, local media reports said. The Union Health Ministry earlier said India is fully prepared to manage respiratory illnesses with surveillance mechanisms indicating no unusual surge in cases. The ministry on Saturday conducted a joint monitoring group meeting to discuss the reports of rising cases of respiratory illnesses in China in the past few weeks. HMPV Symptoms The HMPV causes respiratory diseases with symptoms similar to flu, including fever, cough, nasal congestion, sore throat, and sneezing. "The virus can cause serious illness among infants, children, the elderly over 65 of age or people with weakened immune systems," the Cambodia's Ministry of Health (MoH) said. HMPV was not a new virus as it was first detected in 2001 in the Netherlands, and Cambodia also detected the disease among children between 2007 and 2009, the MoH said. According to the World Health Organizations (WHO) Western Pacific Region Office (WPRO) data from December 16-22, 2024 there has been an increase in acute respiratory infections across China. These include seasonal influenza, rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and HMPV. Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Remembering Madhu Limaye On His Death Anniversary Madhu Limaye (1st May 1922-8th January 1995) was one of the most distinguished personalities of modern India who played a pivotal role in the freedom movement and later in the liberation of Goa from the Portuguese Tuesday January 7, 2025 0:36 AM , Qurban Ali Madhu Limaye (1st May 1922-8th January 1995) was one of the most distinguished personalities of modern India who played a pivotal role in the freedom movement and later in the liberation of Goa from the Portuguese. He was a committed socialist, a distinguished parliamentarian, Champion of civil liberties, a prolific writer and dedicated to the cause of the common man of the country. He was a dynamic leader of the democratic socialist movement and always stood by his ideology throughout his life. The virtues of simplicity, austerity, high moral attitude and Gandhian philosophy of peace and non-violence had a great impact on him, which he followed and practiced and earned a place of distinction among the galaxy of leaders. As a socialist stalwart he guided the socialist movement in the country during different phases. Early Life Madhu Limaye, son of Shri Ramchandra Mahadev Limaye, was born on 1st, May 1922 in Poona (Pune) in Maharashtra. Limaye had his Middle School education from Robert Money School, Bombay and Saraswati Mandir Pune. A brilliant student, Limaye completed his 5th, 6th and 7th standard in just one year. He was, however, denied permission to appear for the Matriculation examination at the age of 13. The interruption in formal schooling provided him with an opportunity to read books on history, freedom movement in various countries and biographies of great personalities. After having his school education, Madhu Limaye enrolled for higher education at the Fergusson College, Poona in 1937, opting World history, Indian Administration, English and Sanskrit as subject ideas. It was during this period that Limaye was attracted towards the socialist ideas. He, thus, started participating in the student movements and became an active member of the All India Students Federation. Since then Limayes journey to free humanity from the bondage of colonialism, deprivation and injustice began. Freedom Fighter Madhu Limaye entered politics at a very tender age when he joined a May Day procession on his 15th birthday in Poona in 1937. The procession was attacked violently by RSS volunteers. Leaders of this procession, Senapati Bapat and SM Joshi, were injured in this attack. This was the first date of Madhu Limaye with politics of struggle and resistance. After this baptism, Madhu came in close contact with SM Joshi, N G Goray and Pandurang S. Sane, alias Sane Guru ji, and attracted drastically towards national movement and socialist ideology along with his other contemporaries V.N. alias Anna Sane, Keshav alias (Bandu) Gorey, Gangadhar Ogle, Madhav Limaye and Vinayak Kulkarni and joined their study circle. On 31st December 1938, this group decided to be the full time workers of Indian National Congress and the CSP. SM Joshi was the General Secretary of the Poona District Congress Committee as well as Secretary of the Provincial Congress Socialist Party. In 1939, SM, appointed Madhu Limaye, the District General Secretary of The Poona Congress Socialist Party (CSP) at the age of 17. Young Madhu Limaye organised CSP in Poona with devotion. Same year two renowned socialist leaders, Jayparakash Narayan and Dr Rammanohar Lohia, visited Poona and were impressed with the skills of Madhu Limaye. In 1939, when the Second World War broke out, he thought that this was an opportunity to free the country from colonial rule. In October 1940, Madhu Limaye started campaigning against war and was arrested for his anti-war speeches and put up in Dhuliya Jail of Khandesh region for almost one year. He was released in September 1941, and undertook the task of organizing Rashtra Sewa Dal and youth camps in different parts of Maharashtra. In August 1942, AICC held its conference in Bombay, where Mahatma Gandhi gave the call of Quit India . This was the first time when Madhu Limaye saw Gandhiji from close quarters. Many senior leaders of the Congress Party, including Gandhiji, were arrested. Madhu went underground along with some of his colleagues and played a key role in the underground resistance movement along with Achuyt Patwardhan and Aruna Asif Ali. He established a printing press and started Krantikari - a Marathi journal edited by Achyut Patwardhan and SM Joshi. At that time, he was staying at a place called Mushak Mahal in front of the Bombay Central Station. It was raided by police on 18th April 1943, and Sane Guruji, N G Goray, Shribhau Limaye and Madhav Limaye got arrested but SM Joshi and Madhu Limaye escaped. After the raid at Mushak Mahal socialists changed their hideout and shifted to a new place called Huddle House. In September 1943, Madhu was arrested from this place along with SM Joshi and Vinayak Kulkarni. He was arrested under the Defence of India Rules (DIR) and was detained without trial in the Jails of Worli, Yervada and Visapur till July 1945. During his detention, the British Government tried its best to extract the secrets of the underground activities from him, but Limaye remained tight-lipped despite severe atrocities committed by the police on him. In Socialist Movement Madhu Limaye was associated with the Indian National Congress, and the Congress Socialist Party almost for one decade, 193848. He attended the CSPs Kanpur Conference in February 1947, where the prefix Congress was removed from the Socialist Party. Limaye was at the forefront of reorganizing the Socialist Party and was given the responsibility of the Khandesh region. He successfully mobilized trade union workers and brought the peasants and the youth into the socialist fold. In 1947, he attended Socialist Internationals Antwerp (Belgium) conference as a sole delegate of the Indian Socialist Movement. He was elected to the National Executive of the Socialist Party at Nasik Conference 1948, and as the Joint Secretary of the Socialist Party at its Patna Conference in 1949. He was the Secretary, Foreign Affairs Committee, Socialist Party and Asian Socialist Bureau, Rangoon, 1953. Madhu Limye also got elected Joint Secretary, Praja Socialist Party at its first Conference held at Allahabad, 1953-54. Madhu Limaye married Professor Champa Gupte on 15 May 1952. She proved a great source of inspiration and support to him, both in his personal and public life. Champa Gupte nee Limaye was a strong woman with an abiding faith in the principles and ideals of socialism and stood by Limaye all through in his struggles and travails. They infect, complemented each other in all their endeavors. Goa Liberation Movement Madhu Limaye participated in the Goa Liberation Movement, in mid fifties, which was launched by his mentor Dr Rammanohar Lohia in 1946. A staunch critic of colonialism, Limaye led a mass Satyagraha in 1955 and entered Goa. At Pedne, the Portuguese police attacked the satyagrahis violently, resulting in some deaths and injuries on a large scale. Madhu Limaye was beaten up brutally. He was kept in police custody for five months. In December 1955, the Portuguese Military Tribunal sentenced him to 12 years imprisonment. But, he neither offered any defence nor appealed against the heavy sentence. Once he wrote: "It was in Goa that I realized how profoundly Gandhiji has transformed my life, how deeply he has shaped my personality and will." During the Goa Liberation Movement, he spent over 19 months in Portuguese captivity. During the captivity, he wrote a book Goa Liberation Movement and Madhu Limaye as a prison diary. The book was published in 1996 on the occasion of the golden jubilee of the launch of the Goa movement in 1946. After his release from the Portuguese custody in 1957, he continued to mobilize the masses and sought support from different sections and urged the Government of India to take firm steps towards the liberation of Goa. After this mass Satyagraha Government of India was compelled to take military action and liberated Goa from Portuguese rule. Goa was ultimately liberated in December 1961 and became an integral part of India. Leader of the Socialist Movement As one of the most dynamic leaders of the Socialist Movement, Madhu Limaye strove ceaselessly to translate the socialist ideals into national ethos. His contribution in shaping the destiny of modern India is indeed tremendous. After serving Congress Socialist Party, Socialist Party and Praja Socialist Party, Madhu Limaye was elected the Chairman of the Socialist Party at its National Conference held at Sherghati (Gaya) in April, 1958. During his Chairmanship, great efforts were made in strengthening the organization by adopting specific policies and concrete action plans. His belief in socialism was not dogmatic or doctrinaire, but was a way of life. To him, unless the hierarchical social order was destroyed, social justice would be a distant dream for a large section of the society. Madhu Limaye played a vital role at Benaras Conference in 1959, where the Socialist Party, under his Chairmanship, adopted a resolution on providing special opportunities for the backward sections of the society. After the merger of SP-PSP in 1964, he became the Chairman of the newly formed Samyukta Socialist Partys Parliamentary Board in 1967, and was Leader of the Samyukta Socialist Party in Fourth Lok Sabha, 1967. A Distinguished Parliamentarian A parliamentarian par excellence, Madhu Limaye was elected four times to Lok Sabha from 1964 to 1979. He is known for his deep understanding of various subjects, through knowledge of Rules of Procedure and effective use of parliamentary devices. He was an encyclopedia of the Indian Constitution and his speeches in Parliament on constitutional matters are a milestone and not only reflected erudition, maturity and understanding but also demonstrated his concern and commitment for the cause of common man. Whenever he rose to speak, members across the party line listened to him with rapt attention. According to Madhu Limye: Parliament was not a substitute for mass and popular movements but an additional instrument of public service and a platform for airing public grievances. It should be used as an instrument for reflecting the hopes and inspirations of the common man. He raised important issues before the house by effectively deploying his vast knowledge. He will be remembered as an outstanding parliamentarian who enriched debates and proceedings of the house in his inimitable style. Champion of the Civil Liberties Madhu Limaye has been a fighter for civil liberties all his life. He confronted Judiciary many times and himself argued his cases from lower courts to High Courts and in the Supreme Court and was invariably successful. In 1955, when Madhu Limaye led a mass Satyagrah in Goa against the Portuguese authorities and was kept in police custody for five months without trial and later the Portuguese Military Tribunal sentenced him 12 years imprisonment, he neither offered any defence nor appealed against the heavy sentence since according to him it was a liberation movement but later on he challenged illegal detentions in free India every time he was arrested. In 1959, when he was Chairman of the Socialist Party and the Punjab unit of his party launched a movement against price rise traveled to various districts of the state and on 7th January 1959, when he was sitting in the district party office of Hisar, he was arrested by the police without any warrant. He filed a Habeas Corpus against his arrest in Punjab High Court under 226 of the IPC against his arrest. The High Court accepted his writ against his illegal detention and released him on 2nd February 1959. Second time he was arrested on 5th November 1968 at Lakhisarai railway station under his parliamentary constituency in Munger for the violation of article 144 and of railway law 122.Madhu Limaye challenged his arrest in the Supreme Court and Court declared his arrest illegal and sat him free immediately on 18th December 1968. There is a long list of his court case where he challenged the arrest made by administration and police to help the ruling party to crush its political opponents or protest against its anti people policies. He strongly disapproved of the unconstitutional methods adopted by the government to curtail the civil liberties of the citizens. In the late sixties, unconstitutional controversies occupied the centre stage of national debate. Madhu Limaye protested vehemently on these issues and wrote letters to the then President V .V. Giri and a Judge of the Supreme Court, Justice K.S. Hegde on constitution and conventions and later on discussed these issues in his books Limits to Authority, New Constitutional amendments: death-knell of popular liberties. Parliament, Judiciary, and Parties an Electrocardiogram of Politics in detail. Foreign Policy and International Relations Expert Limaye was a firm believer in the principles of Non-alignment. To him, the concept of Non-alignment was deep-rooted within the framework of freedom struggle, the basis of which has been anti-colonialism, freedom for all people, disarmament, protection of economic interests of the developing countries and world peace. He wanted to inject a new content and dimension to the Non-aligned Movement to make it more people oriented. He felt that the movement must articulate economic and social aspirations of the down-trodden people. He held the view that India must take a firm stand in the so-called North-South confrontation, since that was an extension of the struggle of the colonial peoples against political and economic imperialism. The policy of non-alignment must work against the imperialist hegemony of any of the blocs. At the same time, he felt, it should not act as a deterrent to bilateral relations between and other countries. He asserted that the independence of Indias foreign policy should be ensured at all costs and that it should aim at safeguarding our political, economic and strategic interests in the long run. He was of the opinion that along with political independence, countries must also be freed from economic exploitation. Non-alignment should also create an enabling atmosphere where the industrially developed nations contribute to the economic growth of the erstwhile colonies. Then alone the policy of non-alignment would become meaningful. On the nuclear issue, he always emphasized that unless all nuclear powers agree to total disarmament, including destruction of the accumulated nuclear arsenals, India should make no compromise in the matter of its own nuclear development. In this respect, he believed that India must develop its own nuclear technology as early as possible to become self-reliant. In the event of an impending threat to Indias security due to the crisis in Bangladesh in 1971 , Limaye lent his unstinted support to the then government of India. In fact, he persuaded Jayaprakash Narayan to take the lead in mobilizing world opinion in favour of the liberation of Bangladesh, which was primarily the responsibility of the Government of India. But a true nationalist like Limaye did not sit idle in the moment of national crisis. He also toured various countries to garner international support for the liberation of Bangladesh. During his illustrious public life spanning over four decades, Limaye visited a number of countries across the globe. He was also the Secretary of the Asian Socialist Bureau, having its headquarters at Rangoon. As an observer delegate, he attended a meeting of the Council of the Socialist International in Paris, in 1953. He also accompanied Dr. Lohia on several foreign tours. He attended the 50th Anniversary celebration of the Russian Revolution at Moscow in 1967 along with S.M. Joshi. His visits to various countries provided him immense exposure on the dynamics of international relations. His knowledge on international issues, interactions with eminent thinkers like Harold Laski and other famous personalities helped him to form a sound base of Indian foreign policy which is of immense relevance even today. His ideas on Socialism & Secularism Madhu Limayes entire ideological edifice was built on secular nationalism. He hadan uncompromising stance on Indias secular credentials. With a strong belief in the spirit of tolerance, which forms the essence of Indias composite and plural culture, he firmly stood for the preservation of secular foundations of the Constitution. Democratic Values With a firm belief in democracy and democratic values, Limaye fought relentlessly to protect parliamentary sovereignty. Through his writings, speeches and actions he sought to protect democratic heritage in more ways than one. Being firmly committed to the healthy democratic ethos and conventions, he always stood by his principles and never compromised his values during turbulent political situations. His protest from jail against the extension of the term of fifth Lok Sabha bears testimony to this. Madhu, played an active part in the JP movement and in the effort to create a united opposition party, 1974-77. He was detained under MISA from July 1975 to February 1977 in various Madhya Pradesh Jails. He resigned in protest, from membership of the 5th Lok Sabha, on immoral extension of its term by Smt. Indira Gandhi through abuse of constitutional provisions about emergency along with his young Comrade Sharad Yadav. He was active in the formation of the Janata Party and the coalition that gained power at the Centre following the Emergency . He was elected General Secretary of the Janata Party, on his 55th birthday on 1 May 1977. But he was also blamed for the collapse of the Morarji Desai led Janata coalition government, by insisting that no member of the Janata party could simultaneously be a member of an alternative social or political organisation. This attack on dual membership was directed specifically at members of the Janata party who had been members of the Jan Sangh and continued to be members of the right-wing Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, RSS, the Jan Sanghs ideological parent. The issue led to the fall of the Janata government in 1979, and the destruction of the Janata Party. Later, he joined Charan Singh camp and became General Secretary of his Janata Party (S) and Lok Dal, 1979-82. In 1982, he broke away from Lok Dal and formed Lok Dal (K). Madhu Limaye retired from active politics in 1982 and wrote more than 60 books in English, Hindi and Marathi. Prolific Writer Like his performance on the floor of Lok Sabha, his writings are also logical and incisive, fearless and forthright, backed by facts and historical perspective. Though he remained aloof from active politics since 1982, he continued to voice his concern on issues pertaining to the social, political and economic development of the nation through his numerous writings. His scholarly attributes are well reflected in his works, which cover a varied range of subjects of constitutional and parliamentary relevance and of national importance. The national and international issues that had been raised by Madhu Limaye in his writings are bound to provide enough food for thought. Madhu Limaye would ever be remembered by the countrymen for his brilliant ideas, which have great relevance for generations to come. Some of his works include, India Polity in Transition, India and the World, Birth of Non- Congressism, Communist Party: Facts and Fiction and Evolution of Socialist Party. His writings are reflective of his deep understanding of the numerous issues confronting Indian society during different phases of History. His works also give an insight into the prevailing socio-economic and political situation and the views of the socialist leaders of his time. For his commendable contribution in the freedom movement, Limaye was conferred the Sanman and offered pension by the Government of India. But, he did not accept that Sanman and the pension, and similar benefits offered to him in recognition of his contribution to the Goa Liberation Movement. He had not even accepted the pension scheme provided to the members of the Parliament. As a committed socialist, Limaye had demonstrated the spirit of selfless sacrifice which will be remembered for all times to come. Last Phase Limaye retired from active politics in 1982 after the formation of Lok Dal (K). In retirement, through the 1980s, he continued to write. He was especially caustic on Constitutional issues, where he set himself the task of defending the Constitution in the media against those who would seek to modify it to centralize power, or to replace the Westminster system with a Presidential one, fearing a slow slide to despotism. Madhu Limaye passed away on 8 January 1995 in New Delhi at the age of 72 after a brief illness. He was suffering from acute bronchial asthma. Madhu Limaye will be remembered by generations to come for his relentless struggle to protect civil liberties and championing the cause of social justice. As an astute parliamentarian, he belonged to an exclusive genre of members who always used to come to the house after doing painstaking research and homework. A man of utmost integrity, Madhu Limaye always acted with conviction. He has set an example of the highest moral and ethical norms in public life. In his passing away the country has lost a true patriot, nationalist, renowned thinker, socialist leader and a distinguished parliamentarian. Madhu Limaye wrote more than 100 books in English, Hindi and Marathi, and contributed more than 1000 articles in various periodicals, journals and newspapers. [The writer, Qurban Ali, is a tri-lingual journalist who has covered some of modern Indias major political, social and economic developments. He has keenly followed Indias freedom struggle and is now documenting the history of the socialist movement in the country. He can be contacted at qurban100@gmail.com.] Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Toxic Waste Disposal Case: MP HC Defers Hearing to Feb 18 The Madhya Pradesh High Court has deferred the hearing on a petition challenging the state govts decision to incinerate Union Carbide's hazardous waste in Pithampur Tuesday January 7, 2025 0:40 AM , Pervez Bari Bhopal: The Madhya Pradesh High Court has deferred the hearing on a petition challenging the state govts decision to incinerate Union Carbide's hazardous waste in Pithampur. The matter will now be heard after six weeks on February 18. During the hearing, the government filed an affidavit and sought additional time to dispose of the waste, along with permission to unload the toxic material currently stored in containers. On Monday, a division bench comprising Chief Justice Suresh Kumar Kait and Justice Vivek Jain heard arguments from both sides before scheduling the next hearing. The petition was originally filed by the MGM Alumni Association, Indore, in the Indore bench of the High Court, but the case has since been transferred to the Jabalpur bench. According to information, the government argued that storing the waste in containers is not a viable solution and requested directives to ensure the safe disposal of the hazardous material. The High Court granted the government permission to carefully unload the containers while adhering to prior guidelines and safety protocols. Advocate Abhinav Dhanotkar, representing the petitioner, argued that the government took this unilateral decision without consulting the residents of Indore and Pithampur. He highlighted the potential risks posed by the hazardous waste, given that Pithampur is only 30 kilometers away from Indore. The 337 metric tons of toxic waste, if stored in Pithampur, could pose significant health risks to the populations of both cities. Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav addressed concerns over the transfer of hazardous waste from the Union Carbide factory in Bhopal to Pithampur for disposal. The Chief Minister clarified that the transfer was carried out as per orders from the Supreme Court, emphasising that Pithampur is the only facility equipped to handle such chemical waste. The Chief Minister added that the court has given additional time of six weeks, and if anyone has further concerns regarding the government's proposal to dispose waste at the Pithampur plant, they can submit their feedback in writing during this period. Continuing, CM Yadav said: "The Supreme Court has accepted that one step of their order has been completed. The court said that it agrees with us that further decisions should be taken after considering all the groups." CM's response came after the Madhya Pradesh High Court heard a petition challenging the decision to incinerate the hazardous waste in Pithampur . The petitioners argued that the decision was taken unilaterally without consulting residents of Indore and Pithampur, raising concerns about potential health and environmental risks. During the High Court proceedings, both sides presented their arguments before the division bench, which deferred the next hearing by six weeks. The court has directed all parties to make their submissions during this period. Meanwhile, Chief Secretary to MP Govt. Anurag Jain has said that the chemical waste of the Union Carbide was shifted from the factory site, but the government will seek time for its disposal. Jain said that the waste will be burnt only after allaying those doubts and after solving the problems that may come up in the process. Because there are certain misgivings among people about the waste, the government will take any further steps only after dispelling those doubts and it will be done under the courts guidance, he said. According to the court directives, the waste cannot be disposed of in an isolated place, he said. The Supreme Court directed the government to do trial-run for burning the waste, which was successful in Pithampur, Jain said. A scientific study has proved that there is no hazardous substance in the waste which, if needed, may be examined again, he said. Jain said that the waste had been examined before being shifted to the site and that the institutions, like AIIMS and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), conducted the tests which show any hazardous material. During the disposal of the waste, the quality of air will also be examined, and the gases emanating from the waste at the time of its burning will also be measured, he said. If there are any problems, the government will act for the public welfare, he said. Jain said what would happen to the UC factory premises was not yet decided. The chemical waste of the factory was removed after a court order. "It was previously decided that a memorial would be constructed, but no decision was taken on the issue", he said. Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. SEOUL, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) successfully test-fired a new-type intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile on Monday, with its top leader overseeing the event, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said Tuesday. After the missile was fired northeastward from a launching ground in a suburban area of Pyongyang, the hypersonic glide vehicle mounted on the missile reached its first peak at the height of 99.8 kilometers and the second peak at the height of 42.5 kilometers respectively while making a 1,500-km-long flight as scheduled at the speed amounting to 12 times of the speed of sound. It finally landed on the target waters in the open sea, according to the KCNA report. The KCNA said a new compound of carbon fiber was used in the manufacture of the engine body of the missile and a new comprehensive and effective method based on the already-accumulated technologies was introduced in its flight and guidance control system. Passengers get on and off a tram in snow in Oslo, capital of Norway, Jan. 6, 2025. Europe is grappling with a powerful wave of extreme winter weather, including heavy snow, sleet, and storms, which has disrupted transportation and infrastructure across the continent, leaving travelers stranded and local communities struggling to manage the chaos. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuliang) BRUSSELS, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Europe is grappling with a powerful wave of extreme winter weather, including heavy snow, sleet, and storms, which has disrupted transportation and infrastructure across the continent, leaving travelers stranded and local communities struggling to manage the chaos. In Germany, the winter weather caused significant disturbances to air and rail transport over the weekend. At Berlin Brandenburg Airport, the number of arrivals was cut in half on Sunday evening due to the threat of sleet, with landings limited to just 20 planes per hour. Frankfurt Airport canceled 120 of its 1,090 scheduled flights on Sunday, while Munich Airport operated with only one runway for much of the day, rescheduling 750 flights and canceling 35 as a precaution. Rail services across Germany, including in Frankfurt, also experienced widespread delays and cancellations. The Netherlands saw similar disruptions on Sunday due to heavy snowfall. Around 70 flights were canceled at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport as icy conditions made operations difficult. Snow-covered roads across the country led to a number of accidents, further complicating the situation for travelers. In Britain, snow and rain continued to cause major disruptions on Monday, including delays and cancellations of flights at airports and rail services, school closures and power outages. Severe weather also wreaked havoc in Ireland, where more than 34,000 customers were left without electricity and 40,000 without water by Monday. Schools were closed, and authorities issued warnings about significant travel disruptions as crews worked around the clock to restore essential services. In the Czech Republic, Prague International Airport temporarily halted operations late Sunday afternoon due to freezing rain and ice. Many flights were either delayed or canceled, and electric train services were suspended in several parts of the country. Meteorologists have warned that freezing rain and hazardous conditions are expected to persist. Croatia issued a yellow weather alert for central and mountainous regions due to heavy snow, ice, and intense precipitation. Road closures, traffic jams, and accidents created significant challenges for residents and travelers alike. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, authorities issued warnings for snow, ice, and extreme cold weather, urging caution on icy roads. Snow chains were made mandatory for freight vehicles in certain areas. Romanian meteorologists extended a code yellow warning for strong winds in the Apuseni Mountains and Eastern Carpathians, with the adverse conditions expected to persist until Wednesday. Eastern Norway remains under an orange warning for heavy snow, with forecasts predicting prolonged and severe snowfall. Major highways and mountain passes have been disrupted, and traffic incidents have been reported across the region. By midday Monday, more than 5,000 households were without electricity. Air traffic in southern and central Norway has also been severely affected, with multiple cancellations and delays. People are seen on a street in the snow in Oslo, capital of Norway, Jan. 6, 2025. Europe is grappling with a powerful wave of extreme winter weather, including heavy snow, sleet, and storms, which has disrupted transportation and infrastructure across the continent, leaving travelers stranded and local communities struggling to manage the chaos. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuliang) Pedestrians walk on a street in snow in Oslo, capital of Norway, Jan. 6, 2025. Europe is grappling with a powerful wave of extreme winter weather, including heavy snow, sleet, and storms, which has disrupted transportation and infrastructure across the continent, leaving travelers stranded and local communities struggling to manage the chaos. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuliang) Pedestrians walk on a street in snow in Oslo, capital of Norway, Jan. 6, 2025. Europe is grappling with a powerful wave of extreme winter weather, including heavy snow, sleet, and storms, which has disrupted transportation and infrastructure across the continent, leaving travelers stranded and local communities struggling to manage the chaos. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuliang) Pedestrians walk on a street in snow in Oslo, capital of Norway, Jan. 6, 2025. Europe is grappling with a powerful wave of extreme winter weather, including heavy snow, sleet, and storms, which has disrupted transportation and infrastructure across the continent, leaving travelers stranded and local communities struggling to manage the chaos. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuliang) Free tuition is spiking up college enrollment rates, but professors claim that this has led to overcrowded classrooms and stretched college resources, more so in community colleges. Recently, a professor at Cape Cod Community College, noted that her college alone had a 3,000-student increase in enrollment for just one semester, leading administrators to close the doors to further enrollment because of capacity constraints. According to NBC Boston, the rapid growth in enrollment followed the state's free tuition for all community college students, an extension of a 2023 program that made community college free to students over 25. State data bears out the success of the program: enrollment jumped 8.7% in 2023 and another 14% in 2024. At the moment, all Massachusetts community colleges are experiencing growth, while other states report a drop in freshman college enrollment rate. Strained College Resources Over Free Tuition While colleges' enrollments are up, colleges are not able to keep up even by hiring adequate staffing. Classes are doubled for some, while professors are struggling with overcrowding and insufficient resources. Professors argue that this is hard when there is so much more than before in a classroom but without more faculty and staff. The lack of preparation for such growth has also caused confusion among students. NBC Boston shared that a student enrolled in a professor's online communications class with the intention of learning basic computer skills, an example of mismatched expectations and resources in an overburdened system. The initiative of free tuition has opened doors to thousands of students, but success lies in the college's ability to get the right resources to keep up with increasing demands. As enrollments continue to grow, educators are calling upon state officials to bridge these gaps to ensure free community college becomes sustainable and works well for all, especially as free tuition expands more towards middle-income families, per the University Herald. The US Department of Labor will be investing $65 million into community colleges throughout the country in efforts to better prepare the workforce for critical industries. Made possible through the Strengthening Community Colleges Training Grants program, this initiative will benefit 18 colleges in 14 states to gain access to quality training that leads to good employment opportunities. Workforce training, which focuses on increasing the effectiveness of the working community, as well as impacting communities, will be the focus, per Diverse Education. Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su emphasized that these job-guaranteed training programs are an aspect of the administration's effort to create programs to help entire communities by better offering opportunities for the workforce to achieve the skills needed to perform stable, high-paying jobs. The plan supports the 'Investing in America' agenda promoted by the Biden-Harris administration for critical sectors: advanced manufacturing, healthcare, IT, and infrastructure. Who Will Receive the $65M Grant? Several colleges will be receiving the grants, among them are JF Drake State Community, Foothill-DeAnza Community College District in California, Technical College in Alabama, and the Little Priest Tribal College in Nebraska. The grant will assist the institutions in designing programs in accordance with the growing needs of industries. Now, this initiative will include many aspects of diversity and inclusion. According to DOL, the program seeks to serve underserved schools with a Tribally Controlled College, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), and five Hispanic-serving institutions (HSIs). Such colleges and its 23 other members will be devoted to the task of enhancing student career pathways as well as academic outcomes in predominantly marginalized communities. This investment is both an indicator of the administration's commitment to workforce development and social equity. It seeks to enhance the capacity of students for in-demand jobs through diverse institutions, and therefore it seeks to bridge economic disparities. In doing so, this program would reach benefits broadly among workers, families, and local economies nationwide. PESHAWAR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Jan, 2025) The administration of the University of Agriculture Peshawar organized a simple but dignified farewell ceremony in honor of Prof (R). Dr. Muhammad Zulfiqar and Director Administration (R) Dr. Muhammad Illyas. Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Jehan Bakht attended the ceremony as the chief guest. University Registrar Dr. Rizwan Ahmed, Treasurer Dr. Abdul Salam, Director Amir Muhammad Khan Campus Mardan Dr. Muhammad Israr and Estate Officer Yasin Khan Khalil were also present on the occasion. They congratulated Dr. Muhammad Zulfiqar and Dr. Muhammad Illyas for their excellent service. Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Jehan Bakht paid tribute to them and said that the teachers and administration of our university are very professional who have shaped the future of thousands of students. Our students are serving in various fields not only in the province but also in the entire country. Retired employees are our best asset, they have made valuable contributions for the development and welfare of the university, and their suggestions for the development of the university will be appreciated in the future as well. Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Jehan Bakht, along with Registrar Dr. Rizwan Ahmed and Treasurer Dr. Abdul Salam also presented shields to them. KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Jan, 2025) Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal, inaugurated Pakistans first locally-made ventilator on Monday, marking a significant milestone in the nations journey toward technological independence. The ventilator was developed by a private company, which the minister described as a symbol of the nations innovation and potential and termed it as part of the Uraan Pakistan. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Ahsan Iqbal lauded the company for its efforts and called it the first champion of Uraan Pakistan, emphasizing that Pakistan needs more such champions to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. He said, "We require an army of such individuals people who combine skill, hard work, ambition, and the intelligence that defines our nation." Ahsan Iqbal lamented the negative narrative that has impacted Pakistan's image, stating that despite the country being known for its hardworking and intelligent people, certain forces have tarnished that image by associating negative perception about Pakistanis. He called for a collective effort to restore Pakistans global reputation, urging the nation to look toward the future and focus on its strengths. He further noted that Pakistans future narrative is crucial as the country approaches 2047, its 100th year of independence. In 2047, our neighbor will have a clear narrative of progress and development. We must ask ourselves what our narrative will be, said Ahsan Iqbal. Highlighting the importance of technological advancement and innovation, Ahsan Iqbal explained that the world is now entering the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and even discussions about a Fifth Industrial Revolution are underway. He emphasized that Pakistan must position itself as a key player in this technological era, where success depends on economic agility and innovation. The Federal Minister noted that while Pakistans population is smaller compared to some of its neighbors, the country can leverage its resources to outpace its competitors in technological advancements over the next two decades. He emphasized the need for consistency in policies and long-term reforms, pointing out that the nations that have succeeded globally such as Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, and Vietnam built their economies on the pillars of peace, political stability, policy consistency, and commitment to reform. Acknowledging Pakistans current challenges, including the energy crisis, Ahsan Iqbal stressed the importance of strengthening the countrys export engine. He set ambitious goals for expanding exports from the current $30 billion to $100 billion within the next 8 to 9 years, stressing that the country cannot afford to miss this leap. He said, "If we fail to achieve this, it will create significant issues, but we have the capacity to perform much better. We are currently operating well below our potential." He added that Pakistans agriculture sector has the potential to generate up to $20 billion in exports, while the industrial sector could contribute between $200 to $400 billion if properly leveraged. The minister called on private sector leaders to take advantage of Pakistans low-cost human resources to produce high-quality goods that could compete in global markets. Ahsan Iqbal urged the private sector to take the lead in driving Pakistans future economic growth, assuring them of the governments support for enterprises that create products capable of competing in international markets. "You are the drivers of Pakistans future," he said, "and the government will stand behind every private sector initiative that helps bring in exports and Dollars." He emphasized that Pakistans economic success is tied to its ability to innovate and produce new products, which will help the country transition away from its reliance on imports and toward a more export-oriented economy. Ahsan Iqbal concluded by stating that the future of Pakistans economy depends on export-led growth and the entrepreneurship of its people. He encouraged the younger generation to embrace innovation and technology to help Pakistan compete on the global stage. SARGODHA, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Jan, 2025) Commissioner Jahanzeb Awan inaugurated a new masjid, public park and security cameras at the District Bar. The ceremony was attended by Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Waseem, DPO Dr. Asad Ijaz Malhi, SP Headquarters Ziaullah, Station in-charge APP Makhdoom shah latif,former president Sahiwal Bar Makhoodm Ghulam Ali Advocate ,President Bar Syed Mohsin Shirazi Advocate, Secretary Law Farrukh Javed Cheema Advocate, former Justice Masood Jahangir and Rao Fazlur Rehman Advocate, besides other administrative and police officers and lawyers in large numbers. A place was dedicated by the district administration adjacent to the District Bar for the masjid where about four hundred worshippers can offer prayers at a time. Commissioner Jahanzeb Awan said that mosques are the fortresses and beacons of light of Islam, which have always played their role in promoting the welfare of humanity, respect for humanity and spreading the universal message of Islam. He said that islam is a religion of coexistence, mosques are centers of spiritual and intellectual guidance for the Muslim Ummah. Jahanzeb Awan said he was very happy that a beautiful mosque had been established which would become a symbol of peace, tolerance, understanding and a beacon of light. The Commissioner also inaugurated the lawyers park adjacent to the bar room. Officers, along with lawyers and officials, also inaugurated CCTV cameras for the security of the bar room, lawyers chambers and the district court. Later, shields were also distributed among administrative and police officers and lawyers. Bar President Syed Mohsin Shirazi thanked all the guests. LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Jan, 2025) Deputy Commissioner (DC) Syed Musa Raza inspected various towns and zones of the provincial capital to monitor cleanliness measures. On his visit to the Wahga Zone on Monday, the DC reviewed cleanliness operations at significant locations such as Abdullah Gul Interchange, Khaki Shah Road, and other key spots. Accompanied by Metropolitan Corporation Lahore (MCL) Chief Officer Shahid Abbas Kathia, Assistant Commissioner Wahga Zone Aamir Butt, Deputy CEO of Lahore Waste Management Company (LWMC), the DC was briefed on the ongoing cleanliness efforts in the area. The DC stressed the importance of swift waste collection and the need to immediately transport garbage to designated dumping sites to maintain a clean environment. He emphasised that LWMC workers must ensure thorough cleaning of streets and public spaces before daily activities begin, to provide a clean environment for citizens from the start of the day. He also called for strict field monitoring of LWMC workers to ensure efficiency in their operations. "I will not tolerate poor cleanliness under any circumstances," the DC affirmed, emphasizing that the Primary goal is to provide citizens with a clean, healthy environment. The DC expressed his commitment to keeping the city free from waste and pollution, stating that he is determined to maintain a pristine Lahore for its residents. He also issued a firm directive against the encroachment mafia, ensuring that no concessions would be made for those responsible for illegal encroachments. Even after repeated warnings, strict action will be taken against individuals causing obstructions in public spaces, with temporary encroachments to be confiscated and permanent ones demolished. The DC ordered the immediate removal of any unauthorized banners, streamers, or posters displayed in the city. He stressed that animals must not be allowed to enter residential areas, directing that all stray animals and encroaching settlements be removed promptly. DC Syed Musa Raza emphasized the need for collaboration among all departments to enhance the citys aesthetic appeal. He also urged citizens to contribute to maintaining Lahores beauty and cleanliness. (@FahadShabbir) Danish Ambassador Jakob Linulf on Monday underscored the collaborative role of Denmark and SDPI in creating a conducive environment for climate action ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Jan, 2025) Danish Ambassador Jakob Linulf on Monday underscored the collaborative role of Denmark and SDPI in creating a conducive environment for climate action. Denmark is proud to work closely with SDPI to help Pakistan attract foreign investments in addressing climate change." He said this during the policy dialogue titled "Post COP Dialogue: Operationalization of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement The Road from Baku to Belem, hosted by the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) in collaboration with the Embassy of Denmark, said a press release. Ambassador Linulf said the efforts to mitigate climate change impacts and global warming would only succeed if the government of Pakistan secured a conducive environment for climate action. Denmark and Pakistan, he said are supporting each other in making their societies more resilient. However, the framework under which both governments cooperate is guided by meetings held at the conference of the parties (COPs) and forums under the umbrella of the United Nations. The next climate regime would be based on trading on carbon emissions reduction enabling funding for climate adaptation, he said, adding, Climate Change mitigation will rely on the internal climate action efforts that every individual will contribute. Climate action starts with yourself as each one has to take steps like avoiding open garbage dumping, ensure tree plantation, select eco-friendly consumption practices, focus on RE, power solutions, energy-efficient buildings for less power consumption, and securing a long-term environment for foreign direct investment through carbon emissions trading. Dr. Abid Qaiyum Suleri, SDPI Executive Director, underscored the need for transparency and robust monitoring in carbon markets. We must establish independent accreditation bodies and align with international frameworks like the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), he stated. Suleri, highlighted key challenges in carbon trading, emphasizing the need for transparency and the establishment of a global carbon credit registry. He stressed the importance of implementing Articles 6.2, 6.4, and 6. 8 of the Paris Agreement, which require corresponding adjustments for host countries. Dr. Suleri proposed that carbon credits from initiatives like fossil fuel subsidy removal, renewable energy promotion, and clean cooking solutions could be leveraged for adaptation funding. He called for independent accreditation and certification bodies to facilitate compliance with emerging trade regimes like CBAM. Zulfiqar Younas of the Ministry of Climate Change (MoCC) announced the launch of a customized carbon registry by February, marking a key milestone in operationalizing Article 6. The registry aims to facilitate transparent carbon credit trading, enabling Pakistan to tap into international carbon finance markets. Ambassador Shafqat Kakakhel, Chairman BoG SDPI, stressed the importance of shifting the energy sector from fossil fuels to domestically available renewables like biomass, water, solar, and wind. Speakers at the dialogue highlighted Pakistans progress in leveraging COP29 outcomes. The 20 million SPAR6C initiative, funded by the German government, is preparing Pakistan and other countries to implement Article 6 through project development in green energy, transport, forestry, and waste management, said Ahsan Karman, a senior consultant and member Climate Change Authority. He also announced the preparation of 13 project ideas in collaboration with provincial governments. Andrew Bailey Managing director, BASF and representative of OICCI reiterated the chambers commitment to supporting Pakistans climate action goals. The private sector remains a critical partner in achieving carbon neutrality. Meanwhile, Dr. Arif Goheer of GCISC pointed out the financial gaps in meeting NDC targets and emphasized the private sectors role in bridging them. In his vote of thanks, Dr. Shafqat Munir, Deputy Executive Director, SDPI thanked partners for their contributions, stating, Our readiness is critical to reaping the benefits of international carbon trading mechanisms. However, Pakistan needs to be conscious about the nature and implications of other climate finance instruments that will be available amid complete rollout of carbon markets. DOHA, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- A Qatari Air Force plane carrying 23 tons of humanitarian aid arrived in Damascus on Monday as part of Qatar's air bridge to support Syrians, the Qatar News Agency reported. The aid shipment was provided by the Qatar Fund for Development, a government institution focused on enhancing global livelihoods, and Qatar Charity, a non-governmental charity and humanitarian group based in Doha. It marks the third aid plane to land at Damascus International Airport and the eighth dispatched under Qatar's air bridge initiative. On Sunday, Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, held here discussions with a high-level Syrian delegation led by interim Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani, focusing on bilateral ties and developments in Syria. ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Jan, 2025) Thomas Fielder, the Second Secretary at the German Embassy in Islamabad, was found dead in his apartment within the Diplomatic Enclave, on Monday. A police spokesperson told APP that the body of Fielder was discovered after embassy staff raised concerns about his two-day absence from work. He said upon breaking into his apartment, they found him unresponsive and immediately informed the authorities. He said the body was taken to the Polyclinic Hospital, where a post-mortem examination was conducted to ascertain the cause of death. Preliminary investigations suggested that the diplomat had previously experienced a minor heart attack, which could potentially be linked to his cause of death. Police stated that the exact cause of death would be determined following the autopsy report. Further investigations are underway to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident, they added. The German Embassy has been notified, and embassy officials are cooperating with the authorities. ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Jan, 2025) The overall punctuality ratio of trains has improved from 76 to 96 percent in four months owing to close monitoring and stern measures taken by Pakistan Railways at the divisional and ministry levels. With the punctuality of trains and concrete measures taken by the department in last three months, the number of passengers has increased by over 20 million, which is ample proof of the departments achievement, an official in the Ministry of Railways told APP. He said, Pakistan Railways is also set to introduce the Train Driver Assistant System (TDAS) to help train drivers a clear view of the railway tracks up to an impressive distance of 700 meters. The technology aims to enhance the safety, punctuality and efficiency of train operations during adverse weather conditions, particularly in the presence of dense smog and fog, he added. The system, he said, TDAS is set to revolutionize the way trains navigate through foggy landscapes. It promised not only to avert potential accidents but also to facilitate smooth train travel when visibility is severely compromised. He said, The capabilities of this digital system extend beyond improved visibility; it can also identify and monitor vital elements such as signals, level crossings, gates, track obstructions, and other potential hazards within the same 700-meter radius. The official said, This comprehensive approach to training management promises to reduce the risk of accidents significantly. Initially, he said the department was planning to install the anti-fog device in four engines. However, Pakistan Railways has outlined a strategic expansion plan, with the ultimate goal of equipping all trains with this life-saving technology in the coming year. He said, In a move to combat the persistent challenge of fog-related train delays, Pakistan Railways has joined hands with the University of Engineering Taxila (UET) to introduce a cutting-edge Digital Railway Driving System. (@FahadShabbir) Deputy Chairman Senate Sayedaal Khan Monday visited the residence of senior Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader and former Chairman of the Evacuee Trust Property Board, Siddique-ul-Farooq, to offer condolences on his demise ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Jan, 2025) Deputy Chairman Senate Sayedaal Khan Monday visited the residence of senior Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader and former Chairman of the Evacuee Trust Property board, Siddique-ul-Farooq, to offer condolences on his demise. Expressing profound grief, he prayed for the departed soul, seeking forgiveness, elevated ranks in Jannah, and patience for the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss. Paying tribute to Siddique-ul-Farooqs contributions, the Deputy Chairman remarked that his political and social services to Pakistan will always be remembered. Siddique-ul-Farooq was a sincere and astute politician with strong convictions," he added. He also lauded Siddique-ul-Farooqs sacrifices and unwavering commitment to democracy, terming his efforts as unforgettable. Sayedaal Khan extended heartfelt sympathies, assuring them of his solidarity during this difficult time and sharing in their sorrow. Separately, the Deputy Chairman Senate visited the residence of Chaudhry Ilyas Mehrban, a prominent political and social figure, to express condolences on the tragic demise of his young son. The Deputy Chairman expressed deep sorrow over the loss, offering prayers for the departed soul. He prayed for forgiveness and the elevation of the deceaseds ranks in Jannah. He conveyed his heartfelt sympathies and assured the bereaved family of his unwavering support. In this time of sorrow, I stand with the family, sharing their grief, he said. (@FahadShabbir) ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Jan, 2025) As Pakistan's breathtaking northern areas beckon tourists to marvel at its majestic snow-capped mountains, renowned tour expert Sheikh Umer cautioned on Monday against the perils of overcrowding, stressing the vital importance of responsible tourism. In an exclusive interview with a private news channel, Sheikh Umer, a seasoned tour operator & expert urged local tourists to steer clear of rush spot destinations, particularly during the peak snowing season, adding, it is crucial to heed the advisories issued by the Pakistan Meteorological Department to ensure a safe and unforgettable experience. Additionally, the expert urged tourists to maintain a clean environment, respect local communities and conserve natural resources to promote sustainable tourism practices. When asked about the environmental impact of tourism, Sheikh Umer stressed the need for sustainable practices. "As tourists, we have a responsibility to preserve the natural beauty of these areas. We must ensure that our activities do not harm the environment or disrupt the local ecosystem. It is essential to maintain a clean environment and respect the local communities," he added. Sheikh Umer also highlighted the importance of planning and preparation before embarking on a winter tourism adventure. "Tourists should research and book reputable tour operators, ensure they have the necessary gear and clothing, and stay informed about weather conditions. By taking these precautions, we can minimize risks and make the most of our winter tourism experience," he advised. Sheikh Umer also noted that Pakistan's Northern areas have gained immense international recognition, with CNN recently featuring them as a "must-visit destination" for tourists. "This global attention is a testament to the unparalleled beauty and charm of our northern regions," he said. "However, it also underscores the need for sustainable tourism practices to preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of these areas for future generations," he added. Furthermore, Sheikh Umer highlighted that the world's leading travel magazines and forums have also listed Pakistan's Northern areas among the top tourist destinations globally. "This international acclaim presents a unique opportunity for Pakistan to promote responsible tourism and showcase its natural wonders to the world," he added. In addition, Sheikh Umer proudly pointed out that Pakistan is home to some of the world's highest mountains, including K2, Nanga Parbat, and Rakaposhi. "World-renowned mountaineers are increasingly drawn to Pakistan's majestic peaks, generating significant revenue for the country through mountaineering expeditions," he said. "This not only boosts our economy but also showcases Pakistan's unique natural beauty to the world," he added. ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Jan, 2025) Justice continues to elude the victim families of the gory Sopore massacre for the past 32 years, whose loved ones lost their lives at the hands of Indian Border Security Force (BSF) personnel in Sopore town on the chilly morning of January 6, 1993, in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir. According to Kashmir Media Service, over 50 innocent civilians were killed, and the main business area of the town was set ablaze and looted by the Indian BSF troops on that fateful day when they went on a rampage after a rifle was allegedly snatched from a BSF soldier by an unknown individual. Shortly after the incident, Indian BSF personnel from the 94th Battalion butchered 57 civilians. Witnesses of the gruesome massacre recounted that the marauding troops dragged a bus driver out of the vehicle and pumped bullets into the bus passengers, killing 20 of them on the spot. After killing the passengers, the troops started spraying gunpowder, petrol and kerosene on the surrounding buildings and then torched them, they said. Among the 57 dead civilians, 48 died due to gunfire and nine were burnt alive. More than 400 commercial establishments and 75 residential houses were set ablaze in five localities of Sopore Arampora, Muslimpeer, Kralteng, Shallapora, Shahabad and Bobimir Sahab. Among the burnt buildings and shops were landmark structures like the Womens Degree College, said a witness. We couldnt comprehend anything as we watched BSF personnel targeting every civilian with bullets. Days after the gruesome massacre, we came to know that a BSF soldier was robbed of his rifle by an unknown man and to avenge that incident, they targeted innocent civilians, added another eyewitness. Manzoor Ahmed, who witnessed the massacre and arson, said the marauding troops dragged the driver of a bus (JKY-1901) from the vehicle and fired into the passengers, killing 20 of them. The troops then set shops and buildings on fire after sprinkling gunpowder. About 400 shops and buildings, including 75 residential houses, were gutted in Shalpora, Shahabad, Muslimpeer, Kraltang, and Arampora areas of the town, he said. Among the gutted buildings were the Womens Degree College and Samad Talkies. The Shalla family of Shalpora suffered the highest number of casualties, with four of its members killed. The Sopore massacre, which serves as a horrific example of brutal Indian military actions in IIOJK was described by Time Magazine as one of the worst atrocities in Kashmirs history. Meanwhile, All Parties Hurriyat Conference leaders and rights activists, while paying glowing tributes to the victims of the Sopore massacre have stated that the deteriorating situation in the territory warrants international intervention to resolve the Kashmir dispute. Ottawa, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Jan, 2025) The term "political rock star" has not been applied to many Canadian leaders, but when Justin Trudeau stormed into office in a 2015 landslide election, it appeared to fit. Now, more than nine years after he initially wooed voters with a progressive agenda, Trudeau is leaving office, forced out by former Liberal party allies while being mocked by incoming US president Donald Trump. "Trudeaumania" was first used to describe reaction to Trudeau's father, Pierre Elliott Trudeau, who became a global celebrity when he led Canada through in the late 1960s and 70s, dating Barbara Streisand and developing a friendship with Fidel Castro. The phrase resurged when Justin Trudeau -- who had previously been a snowboard instructor, bartender, bouncer and teacher -- rose to the top of Canadian politics. "Why can't he be our president?" Rolling Stone magazine asked on a 2017 cover, six months into Trump's first term. Trudeau's positions seemed well pitched to left-of-center voters in Canada and beyond. He promised action on climate change and a defence of Indigenous and refugee rights. When asked why he prioritized gender parity in his first cabinet, Trudeau famously replied, "because it's 2015." When he travelled abroad, young people lined up for selfies. "Canada is back!" he declared after ousting an entrenched Conservative prime minister, the unquestionably less glamourous Stephen Harper, in 2015. - Support fades - Within Canada the honeymoon was short-lived. There were steps that pleased supporters, like a public inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women, legislation permitting medically assisted suicide, and the legalization of cannabis. But on core issues like climate change and reconciliation with Indigenous communities, Trudeau "has not been the reformer that many had hoped for," said Maxwell Cameron, a political science professor at the University of British Columbia. Trudeau was narrowly re-elected to lead minority governments in 2019 and 2021. "He probably stayed in power for a year too long," said Genevieve Tellier, a political science professor at the University of Ottawa. She added that the disappointment engulfing Trudeau was so acute because he "promised so much." - Trump threat - Trudeau, 53, has three children and announced his separation from his wife Sophie Gregoire in 2023. On Monday, he credited his family for his successful career in politics, which began when he was elected to parliament representing a working class Montreal neighborhood in 2008. As Liberal party critics came forward this year, Trudeau initially resisted calls to go. Opinion polls show the Liberals trailing the Conservatives, but Trudeau voiced confidence that once an election campaign got underway Canadians would sour on Tory leader Pierre Poilievre. But in December he suffered a blow that appeared conclusive. His long-time ally, finance minister and deputy prime minister Chrystia Freeland resigned, issuing a scathing letter that accused Trudeau of placing his political goals above the public good. She charged that instead of preparing Canada's finances to withstand the potentially crushing impact of 25 percent import tariffs threatened by Trump, Trudeau was focused on costly vote-buying gimmicks, like a Christmas tax holiday. While threatening tariffs, Trump has called Trudeau the "governor" of what he described as the US state of Canada, and mused about annexing the vast country. Freeland's resignation seemed to break a dam of Liberal party dissent. On Monday Trudeau said he would resign as prime minister as soon as a new Liberal leader is chosen, a process that could take months. For Stephanie Chouinard, a political science professor at Queen's University, the Trudeau era should not be dismissed as a failure. She highlighted his social programs, which included a national plan to make early childhood care cheaper. "It was a progressive government unlike anything we have seen since the 70s," she said. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Caracas, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Jan, 2025) Venezuela's interior minister vowed Monday that opposition figure Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, who claims to have won elections last July, "will be arrested" if he sets foot in the country. Gonzalez Urrutia -- who found exile in Spain after incumbent Nicolas Maduro claimed victory in the vote widely dismissed as fraudulent -- "will be arrested and tried if he sets foot in Venezuela," minister Diosdado Cabello said ahead of Friday's presidential inauguration. "I will gladly receive him," said Cabello of the 75-year-old former diplomat who had vowed to return to his country to take power on January 10, when Maduro is set to be sworn in for a third, six-year presidential term. The opposition says it has documentary proof that Gonzalez Urrutia overwhelmingly won July 28 elections. Venezuela's electoral authority awarded to the win to Maduro without releasing a detailed vote breakdown. Gonzalez Urrutia has been recognized by the United States, G7 and several Latin American nations as Venezuela's president-elect. On an international tour seeking to drum up pressure on Maduro to relinquish power, Gonzalez Urrutia called Sunday for the Venezuelan military to recognize him as commander-in-chief. In a video posted Sunday on X, he told the army that "On January 10, by the sovereign will of the Venezuelan people, I must assume the role of commander-in-chief." Also Sunday, popular opposition leader Maria Corina Machado called for mass protests on Thursday, the day before the inauguration. She had been barred from running in the election by institutions loyal to the Maduro regime, forcing Gonzalez Urrutia to step in to replace her at the last minute. Machado has been in hiding since the vote, but has appeared at a handful of rallies in Caracas. Mass protests broke out in the wake of Maduro's victory claim, with crackdowns and clashes leaving at least 28 people dead, some 200 hurt and over 2,000 arrested. Beverly Hills, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Jan, 2025) Surreal narco-musical film "Emilia Perez" and actress Demi Moore were among the early winners at the Golden Globes on Sunday, where a crowded field of movies vied for glory at the year's first major showbiz awards gala. "Emilia Perez," French director Jacques Audiard's genre-defying film about a Mexican drug lord who transitions to life as a woman, held the most nominations going into the show with 10 -- the most ever for a comedy or musical. It picked up three early wins: for Zoe Saldana as best supporting actress -- nudging out her co-star Selena Gomez; best original song; and best non-English language film. "I don't have sisters, and that might be the reason why I made this film about sisterhood," said Audiard, via a translator. "If there were more sisters in the world, maybe it would be a better place." Big wins at the Globes, a sometimes eccentric bellwether for the academy Awards, can help movies earn new audiences and build vital momentum toward the Oscars in early March. But "Emilia Perez" faced competition from a plethora of rivals, in a year with no clear favorites and no lack of strong contenders. Other early Globes were distributed widely to multiple films. Demi Moore won best actress in a comedy for body horror "The Substance," which takes a satirical and often grotesque look at the pressures placed on women by society as they age. Accepting her prize, Moore reflected on how decades ago, she had been told by a Hollywood producer that she was "a popcorn actress." "I bought in, and I believed that, and that corroded me over time," said the now 62-year-old "Ghost" star. But "I had this magical, bold, courageous, out-of-the-box, absolutely bonkers script come across my desk called 'The Substance,' and the universe told me that 'you're not done.'" Sebastian Stan won the best comedy film actor award for "A Different Man," in which he portrays a man who undergoes experimental treatment for a disfiguring facial condition, but comes to rue the consequences. "Our ignorance and discomfort around disability and disfigurement has to end now," said Stan. "We have to normalize it and continue to expose ourselves to it." Kieran Culkin won best supporting actor for Jesse Eisenberg's awkward road trip comedy "A Real Pain," about mismatched American cousins retracing their European roots. Beverly Hills, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Jan, 2025) Surreal narco-musical "Emilia Perez" and epic immigrant drama "The Brutalist" were the big winners at the Golden Globes on Sunday, as prizes were shared widely across an international crop of movies at the year's first major showbiz awards gala. French director Jacques Audiard's Mexico-set "Emilia Perez" took four prizes, including best comedy or musical film, while "The Brutalist" was named best drama and also picked up best actor for Adrien Brody, who plays a Hungarian Holocaust survivor. "Emilia Perez," about a drug lord who transitions to life as a woman, had entered the night with the most nominations at 10. It won for best non-English language film and best original song, while Zoe Saldana took best supporting actress honors, nudging out her co-star Selena Gomez. "You can maybe put us in jail, you can beat us up, but you never can take away our soul, our resistance, our identity," said Karla Sofia Gascon, the film's star, who is transgender. She added: "Raise your voice... and say, 'I won. I am who I am, not who you want'." Big wins at the Globes can help movies earn new audiences and build vital momentum toward the Oscars in early March. Sunday also proved an important night for "The Brutalist," which shrugged off concerns over its sprawling runtime to earn best director for Brady Corbet. "I was told that no one would come out and see it," said Corbet, of his epic about a Jewish architect who survives Nazi persecution and emigrates to the United States. "No one was asking for a three-and-a-half hour film about a mid-century designer... but it works," he added. In one of the night's biggest upsets, Brazil's Fernanda Torres won best actress in a drama film for "I'm Still Here," which chronicles a family ripped apart by the country's military dictatorship in the 1970s. - Comebacks - Brody's win was one of the night's remarkable career comebacks, more than two decades after he became the youngest ever Oscar best actor winner for "The Pianist," in which he also played a Holocaust survivor. "There was a time not too long ago that I felt that this may be a moment never afforded to me again," he said. "This story... is very reminiscent of my mother's, and my ancestral journey of fleeing the horrors of war and coming to this great country." And there was another late-career triumph for Demi Moore, who won best actress in a comedy for body horror flick "The Substance," which takes a satirical and often grotesque look at the pressures placed on women by society as they age. Accepting her prize, Moore reflected on how decades ago, she had been told by a Hollywood producer that she was "a popcorn actress." "I bought in, and I believed that, and that corroded me over time," said the now 62-year-old "Ghost" star. But "I had this magical, bold, courageous, out-of-the-box, absolutely bonkers script come across my desk called 'The Substance,' and the universe told me that 'you're not done.'" - Ozempic - The always controversial Globes are in year two of a revamp, following a Los Angeles Times expose in 2021 that showed that the awards' voting body -- the Hollywood Foreign Press Association -- had no Black members. Now under new ownership, and with the HFPA disbanded, organizers were hoping to capitalize on a ratings bump registered last January. Comedian Nikki Glaser hosted the ceremony, kicking off the gala with an irreverent, well-received monologue. "Welcome to the 82nd Golden Globes, Ozempic's biggest night," she quipped, referring to the weight-loss drug that has proven wildly popular in famously looks-conscious Hollywood. Among the dramas, "Conclave," a fictionalized account of high-stakes Vatican horse-trading, depicting how the death of a pope sends the church's various factions into battle for its future, took the award for best screenplay. In comedy, Sebastian Stan won the best actor for "A Different Man," in which he portrays a man who undergoes experimental treatment for a disfiguring facial condition, but comes to rue the consequences. "Our ignorance and discomfort around disability and disfigurement has to end now," said Stan. "We have to normalize it and continue to expose ourselves to it." Kieran Culkin won best supporting actor for Jesse Eisenberg's awkward road trip comedy "A Real Pain," about mismatched American cousins retracing their European roots. Latvian movie "Flow," a surreal dialogue-free odyssey about a group of animals forced to work together as they drift in a boat through a flooded world, won best animated film. The show also honors the best in television, with big wins for historical epic "Shogun," showbiz comedy "Hacks" and limited series "Baby Reindeer." Tokyo, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Jan, 2025) Japan's prime minister called for clarity Monday on why US President Joe Biden blocked a $14.9-billion deal for Nippon Steel to buy US Steel, warning the decision could hit investments. Biden's announcement last week cited a strategic need to protect domestic industry, a move that drew sharp criticism from both companies and Tokyo. "They need to be able to explain clearly why there is a national security concern, or else further discussions on the matter will not work," Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba told reporters. A US government panel failed to reach consensus last month on whether the acquisition threatened national security -- shifting the decision to Biden in the waning days of his presidency. Ishiba said that the veteran Democrat's decision had sparked concerns over future Japanese investments in the world's largest economy. "It is unfortunately true that there are concerns being raised within Japan's industrial world over future Japan-US investment," he said. "It's something we have to take seriously," he said. Japan and the United States are each other's top foreign investors. "It would be inappropriate for the Japanese government to comment on the management of an individual company that was under review as per US domestic law, so we will refrain from commenting, but we will strongly call on the US government to take steps to dispel these concerns," said Ishiba. BRATISLAVA, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- The upcoming meeting among the Slovak and Ukrainian delegations, and representatives of the European Commission (EC) has been cancelled, local media reported Monday. The recent halt in Russian gas transit to Slovakia should have been high on the agenda of the meeting. The meeting, scheduled in Brussels on Tuesday, was called off by the EC due to the Ukrainian side's refusal to participate, the News Agency of the Slovak Republic reported, citing the Slovak Government Office's press and information department. However, the EC, in cooperation with the parties concerned, is seeking an alternative date on which the meeting could take place, according to the Slovak Government Office. The contract between Ukraine and Russia for gas transit to Europe expired on Dec. 31, 2024, and gas flow to Slovakia was halted the following day, after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky decided not to extend it. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico said Slovakia would have to lose transit fees as well as suffer from higher gas prices because of the stoppage, and announced that his government would consider taking reciprocal measures against Ukraine over the gas dispute. Seoul, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Jan, 2025) North Korea on Monday fired a missile as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited South Korea, where he warned Pyongyang was working ever closer with Russia on advanced space technology. Blinken visited as investigators were trying to arrest conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol, who has entrenched himself in his residence after being impeached for a failed attempt to impose martial law. In a reminder of common challenges that go beyond domestic politics, North Korea on Monday fired a ballistic missile to sea as Blinken was holding meetings in Seoul, pushing him to rebuke Pyongyang and its ally Russia. Both Blinken and his South Korean counterpart Cho Tae-yul condemned the launch at a joint press conference, with Washington's top diplomat calling it "another violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions". The outgoing diplomat also took aim at Russia, saying Moscow was expanding space cooperation with Pyongyang. "The DPRK is already receiving Russian military equipment and training. Now we have reason to believe that Moscow intends to share advanced space and satellite technology with Pyongyang," he told the news conference. After North Korea's missile flew around 1,100 kilometres (680 miles) before falling into the sea, Seoul said it had "strengthened surveillance and vigilance" for more launches. Seoul was also "in close coordination with the US and Japan" about the launch, the South's military added. The test comes two weeks before the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump, who in his last term sought to woo North Korea with a unique personal diplomacy. RIYADH, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Jan, 2025) A convoy of 60 trucks carrying humanitarian aid crossed the Jaber Border Crossing into Syria the other day, marking the commencement of the Saudi relief land bridge initiative to support the Syrian people in their time of need. Organized by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), the relief operation includes essential supplies such as food, shelter materials, and medical aid to help alleviate the hardships faced by Syrians amid ongoing crises. The convoys entry into Syria has underscored the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's steadfast commitment to supporting the Syrian people during periods of adversity, reaffirming its role as a leading global donor in humanitarian efforts. The initiative has reflected Saudi Arabia's continuous dedication to mitigating the impact of humanitarian crises through coordinated international relief operations. 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. remaining of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. President Joe Biden is moving to ban new offshore oil and gas drilling in most U.S. coastal waters, a last-minute effort to block possible action by the incoming Trump administration to expand offshore drilling. Biden, whose term expires in two weeks, said he is using authority under the federal Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to protect offshore areas along the East and West coasts, the eastern Gulf of Mexico and portions of Alaska's Northern Bering Sea from future oil and natural gas leasing. My decision reflects what coastal communities, businesses and beachgoers have known for a long time: that drilling off these coasts could cause irreversible damage to places we hold dear and is unnecessary to meet our nations energy needs," Biden said in a statement. As the climate crisis continues to threaten communities across the country and we are transitioning to a clean energy economy, now is the time to protect these coasts for our children and grandchildren," he said. Biden's orders would not affect large swaths of the Gulf of Mexico, where most U.S. offshore drilling occurs, but it would protect coastlines along California, Florida and other states from future drilling. Biden's actions, which protect more than 625 million acres of federal waters, could be difficult for President-elect Donald Trump to unwind, since they would likely require an act of Congress to repeal. Trump himself has a complicated history on offshore drilling. He signed a memorandum in 2020 directing the Interior secretary to prohibit drilling in the waters off both Florida coasts, and off the coasts of Georgia and South Carolina until 2032. The action came after Trump initially moved to vastly expand offshore drilling, before retreating amid widespread opposition in Florida and other coastal states. Trump has vowed to establish what he calls American energy dominance around the world as he seeks to boost U.S. oil and gas drilling and move away from Bidens focus on climate change. Environmental advocates hailed Biden's action, saying new oil and gas drilling must be sharply curtailed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming. 2024 was the hottest year in recorded history. This is an epic ocean victory!" said Joseph Gordon, campaign director for the environmental group Oceana. Gordon thanked Biden for listening to the voices from coastal communities" that oppose drilling and contributing to the bipartisan tradition of protecting our coasts. Biden's actions build on the legacy of Democratic and Republican presidents to protect coastal water from offshore drilling, Gordon said, adding that U.S. coastlines are home to tens of millions of Americans and support billions of dollars of economic activity that depend on a clean environment, abundant wildlife and thriving fisheries. In balancing multiple uses of Americas oceans, Biden said it was clear that the areas he is withdrawing from fossil fuel use show relatively minimal potential" that does not justify possible environmental, public health and economic risks that would come from new leasing and drilling. A spokeswoman for Trump mocked Biden, saying, Joe Biden clearly wants high gas prices to be his legacy. The spokeswoman, Karoline Leavitt, called Biden's action a disgraceful decision designed to exact political revenge on the American people who gave President Trump a mandate to increase drilling and lower gas prices. Rest assured, Joe Biden will fail, and we will drill, baby, drill. Biden has proposed up to three oil and gas lease sales in the Gulf of Mexico, but none in Alaska, as he tries to navigate between energy companies seeking greater oil and gas production and environmental activists who want him to shut down new offshore drilling in the fight against climate change. A five-year drilling plan approved in 2023 includes proposed offshore sales in 2025, 2027 and 2029. The three lease sales are the minimum number the Democratic administration could legally offer if it wants to continue expanding offshore wind development. Under the terms of a 2022 climate law, the government must offer at least 60 million acres (24.2 million hectares) of offshore oil and gas leases in any one-year period before it can offer offshore wind leases. Biden, whose decision to approve the huge Willow oil project in Alaska drew strong condemnation from environmental groups, has previously limited offshore drilling in other areas of Alaska and the Arctic Ocean. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Monday that North Korea and China are the biggest ongoing drivers allowing Russia to carry out its war in Ukraine, and that security assurances will need to be a part of potential future negotiations ending the conflict. Speaking during a visit to South Korea, Blinken said North Korean supplies of artillery, ammunition and troops, along with Chinese support for Russias military industrial base are giving the Russian military the backing it needs to continue carrying out the fight it started in February 2022. He said North Korea is already seeing a return on its involvement in the conflict in the form of Russian military equipment and training for North Korea troops. We believe it has the intent to share space and satellite technology with the DPRK, Blinken said. With only two weeks left in the Biden administration, the United States has been rushing to send remaining authorized aid to Ukraine amid uncertainty about how President-elect Donald Trump may approach the war. Blinken said Monday the U.S. has been trying to make sure Ukraine has what it needs to defend itself, and to have the strongest possible hand at a future negotiating table with Russia. "If there is going to be, at some point, a ceasefire, it's not going to be, in Putin's mind, 'game over'," Blinken said. "His imperial ambitions remain, and what he will seek to do is to rest, to refit, and eventually to re-attack. Blinken said it is necessary to have an "adequate deterrent in place so that he doesn't do that, so that he thinks twice three times before engaging in any re-aggression. Ukraines military said Monday it shot down 79 of the 128 drones that Russian forces deployed overnight in attack targeting multiple Ukrainian regions. The intercepts took place over the Cherkasy, Chernihiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Kharkiv, Kirovohrad, Kyiv, Mykolaiv, Poltava, Sumy, Vinnytsia and Zhytomyr regions, the Ukrainian air force said. Officials in Cherkasy reported damage to residential buildings and a grain warehouse from falling drone debris. Russias Defense Ministry said it destroyed 12 Ukrainian aerial drones, all in areas along the Russia-Ukraine border. Vyacheslav Gladkov, governor of the Belgorod region, said the attacks injured three people and damaged several residential buildings. Some information for this report was provided by from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters China's top diplomat began his annual New Year tour of Africa on Sunday, maintaining a 35-year-long tradition, to quietly advance Beijing's already sizeable influence across the resource-rich continent as Europe's presence wanes and America's wavers. While global capitals and investors brace for the return of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to the White House, and wars in Ukraine and the Middle East and domestic politics keep German and French ministers occupied, Foreign Minister Wang Yi being in Namibia, the Republic of Congo, Chad and Nigeria highlights the consistency of China's engagement with Africa, analysts say. Wang's visit through to Saturday also comes as the world's No.2 economy ramps up its financial support for the debt-laden continent and looks to strike more critical minerals deals and find markets to absorb its exports. "The decision on which countries to go to each year rarely follows any external logic," said Eric Orlander, co-founder of the China-Global South Project. "(But) it resonates in Africa as a reminder of China's consistent commitment to the continent, in contrast to the approaches of the U.S., United Kingdom and European Union." "China firmly believes that Africa has never been a forgotten continent, but rather a source of vitality and a land full of development potential," Guo Jiakun, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, told a regular news conference on Monday. As China's economy slows, Africa offers a much-needed avenue for its state-owned infrastructure firms struggling for projects as indebted local governments hold off on spending, and a market for its electric vehicles and solar panels, areas where the U.S. and EU say it has over-capacity. Africa's 50-plus votes at the United Nations could also help advance Beijing's efforts to reshape multilateral institutions and reinterpret global norms so that they are more in line with its interests, particularly on issues such as human rights. While current U.S. President Joe Biden's December trip to Angola was his only visit to sub-Saharan Africa in his presidency, China puts Africa at the front of its diplomatic calendar. "China has become central to Africa's policy, as an actor and an inspiration," said Hannah Ryder, founder of Development Reimagined, an African-owned consultancy, referring to how candidates vying to chair the African Union Commission have talked up Beijing's ability to improve Africa's manufacturing capabilities and China's track record in mass education ahead of February's election. The commission is the secretariat of the 55-nation African Union. Security issues Wang's decision to visit the Republic of Congo, which this year takes over as co-chair of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) that sets the agenda for China-Africa relations, also points to China's commitment to implementing the outcomes of last year's summit, Ryder said, where China pledged $51 billion in fresh financial assistance. Beijing is also beginning to make its presence felt on pressing regional security issues, analysts say, which partly explains why Wang will travel to Chad. France last month began the withdrawal of its military from the Central African country, after its government unexpectedly ended a defense cooperation pact that had made it a key Western ally in the fight against Islamic militants in the region. "China has been a reliable and stable partner for the new military juntas in the Sahel and West Africa," Orland said. "For the French and U.S., who see a dilution of Western power in the region, China's presence is seen as 'controversial,' but it's a very different view from African perspectives." Ecuador's former Vice President Jorge Glas has been evacuated from prison after an attempt on his life, his lawyer said Sunday, blaming the government for the situation. Sonia Gabriela Vera called for the United Nations and other international organizations to intervene after what she called an "attempted assassination" of Glas in La Roca prison. The attack "is the result of a State that has condemned him to danger, torture and slow death," Vera said on social media platform X, commenting on a post that claimed Glas had been taken from the prison amid a threat on his life from mutinying prisoners. "His emergency evacuation confirms what we have denounced time and again: they are deliberately playing with his life," Vera added. "If anything happens to him, it will be a crime of the State." Ecuador's SNAI prisons agency did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Glas was detained in April after Ecuadorean security forces stormed Mexico's Embassy in Quito, where he was holed up after seeking asylum. While Glas' supporters say the arrest is politically motivated, the ex-vice president has been convicted for corruption on two other occasions. Glas also faces charges of misusing funds collected to aid reconstruction of coastal Manabi province after a devastating 2016 earthquake. GAZA, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- "It was as if my soul had been ripped from my body, and I was left to die forever," said Abeer Abu Yousef, a mother of four, as she described the anguish of sending her child abroad for medical treatment without her. The 40-year-old Palestinian woman told Xinhua that her son Abdullah has been plagued by kidney failure for a decade. However, Israeli attacks on hospitals in the Gaza Strip have severely limited his access to dialysis treatment, leading to a further deterioration of his health condition. Abeer finally held on to a glimmer of hope when the Gaza-based health authorities informed her that her child could travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for treatment. Abdullah was one of 45 patients who were allowed to leave Gaza through the Israeli-controlled Kerem Shalom crossing on Tuesday for medical treatment in the UAE, according to local health officials. They noted the evacuation was coordinated with the World Health Organization. However, seeking medical treatment abroad came with increasingly extensive security checks imposed by Israeli authorities amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Although uninvolved in "any political or military activities," Abeer failed to get permission to travel with her son after a security check. Left with no other option, she sent her 13-year-old daughter to attend Abdullah abroad. "My daughter is young and doesn't know what her brother needs, and I feel sorry for her because she has to take responsibility for her brother, but we have no other choice ... I'm afraid for both, and I hope they find someone to care for them," she said. The heartbreaking predicament was shared by Kamla Abu Kwaik, another mother who was forced to let her child, Fayez, travel alone for treatment of his blood cancer. "The Israeli authorities have rejected more than once requests from me and my husband to accompany our son abroad for treatment, so his grandmother traveled with him," the 39-year-old mother of four told Xinhua. "I do not know how to spend the period when Fayez will be receiving treatment away from me," she said in a choked voice. "Life has no color, and food has no taste, and I am counting the days waiting for my son to return to my arms." Israel has been conducting a large-scale offensive in Gaza in retaliation for a rampage by Hamas militants through the southern Israeli border on Oct. 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 Israelis were killed and around 250 taken hostage. The offensive has caused widespread destruction in its wake, posing significant danger to tens of thousands of civilians in Gaza, especially children and patients. According to a statement by the Gaza-based health authorities on Monday, the Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks in Gaza has risen to 45,854, with injuries reaching 109,139. Ismail Thawabta, head of the Hamas-run government media office in Gaza, told Xinhua that 35,060 Gaza children now live without their parents or one of them. There are more than 28,000 sick and injured, including children, who need treatment abroad due to the lack of medicines in the enclave, according to Mohammed Zaqout, director general of hospitals in the Gaza Strip. "Patients face the real risk of death due to the collapse of the health sector as a result of the direct targeting of hospitals and medical centers by the Israeli army, which has led to massive destruction of most of them," Zaqout warned. A trial of France's former President Nicolas Sarkozy and 11 co-defendants started Monday over alleged illegal financing of his 2007 presidential campaign by the government of then-Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi. Sarkozy, who served as president from 2007 to 2012, did not speak to the press at arrival. He has denied any wrongdoing. He faces charges of passive corruption, illegal campaign financing, concealment of embezzlement of public funds and criminal association, punished by up to 10 years in prison. The trial is scheduled to run until April 10. The Libyan case, the biggest and possibly most shocking of several scandals involving Sarkozy, is scheduled to run until April 10, with a verdict expected at a later date. The trial involves 11 other defendants, including three former ministers. Franco-Lebanese businessman Ziad Takieddine, accused of having played the role of intermediary, has fled in Lebanon and is not expected to appear at the Paris court. Sarkozy is looking forward to the hearings "with determination," his lawyer Christophe Ingrain said in a statement. "There is no Libyan financing of the campaign," the statement said. "We want to believe the court will have the courage to examine the facts objectively, without being guided by the nebulous theory that poisoned the investigation." Gadhafi's alleged agreement The case emerged in March 2011, when a Libyan news agency reported that the Gadhafi government had financed Sarkozy's 2007 campaign. In an interview, Gadhafi himself said "it's thanks to us that he reached the presidency. We provided him with the funds that allowed him to win," without providing any amount or other details. Sarkozy, who had welcomed Gadhafi to Paris with great honors in 2007, became one of the first Western leaders to push for a military intervention in Libya in March 2011, when Arab Spring pro-democracy protests swept the Arab world. Gadhafi was killed by opposition fighters in October that same year, ending his four-decade rule of the North African country. The next year, French online news site Mediapart published a document said to be a note from the Libyan secret services, mentioning Gadhafi's agreement to provide Sarkozy's campaign 50 million euros in financing. Sarkozy strongly rejected the accusations, calling the document a "blatant fake" and filing complaints for forgery, concealment and spreading false news. However, French investigative magistrates eventually said in 2016 the document has all the characteristics of an authentic one, although there is no definitive evidence that such a transaction took place. The official cost for Sarkozy's 2007 campaign was 20 million euros. Accusations of witness tampering French investigators scrutinized numerous trips to Libya made by people close to Sarkozy, then the interior minister, between 2005 and 2007, including his chief of staff Claude Gueant. They also noted dozens of meetings between Gueant and Takieddine, a key player in major French military contracts abroad. The investigation gained traction when Takieddine told news site Mediapart in 2016 that he had delivered three suitcases from Libya containing millions in cash to the French Interior Ministry. However, Takieddinne reversed his statement four years later. Since then, a separate investigation has been launched into alleged witness tampering as magistrates suspect an attempt to pressure Takieddine in order to clear Sarkozy. Sarkozy and his wife, former supermodel Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, were given preliminary charges as financial prosecutors said the former president is suspected of "benefitting from corruptly influencing" Takieddine. 11 other defendants The other accused are three former French ministers, including Gueant, and a former adviser close to Sarkozy. Like Takieddine, Franco-Algerian businessman Alexandre Djouhri is accused of having been an intermediary. The case also involves Gadhafi's former chief of staff and treasurer Bashir Saleh, who sought refuge in France during the Libyan civil war then moved to South Africa, where he survived a shooting in 2018, before settling in the United Arab Emirates. Other defendants include two Saudi billionaires, a former Airbus executive and a former banker accused of having played a role in the alleged money transfers. Shukri Ghanem, Gadhafi's former oil minister who was also suspected, was found dead in the Danube River in Vienna in 2012 in unclear circumstances. French investigators were able to find Ghanem's notebook, which is believed to document payments made by Libya. Gadhafi's spy chief and brother-in-law Abdullah al-Senoussi told investigative judges millions have indeed been provided to support Sarkozy's campaign. Accused of war crimes, he is now imprisoned in Libya. Sarkozy convicted in 2 other cases Sarkozy has been convicted in two other scandals. France's highest court, the Court of Cassation, last month upheld a conviction against Sarkozy of corruption and influence peddling while he was the head of state. He was sentenced to one year in house arrest with an electronic bracelet. The case was revealed as investigative judges were listening to wiretapped phone conversations during the Libya inquiry. In February last year, an appeals court in Paris found Sarkozy guilty of illegal campaign financing in his failed 2012 reelection bid. Just before Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, nearly three years ago, 23-year-old Ukrainian army Lieutenant Myroslav Pylypchuk was preparing to become a father. Instead, he found himself confronting the invaders on the frontlines, where he repeatedly faced death, including a face-off with a Russian tank in Ukraines Kharkiv region. During subsequent fighting in the Kharkiv region, he stepped on a Russian landmine. The explosion cost him his left leg. Just four months later, he was conquering a mountain peak on crutches. Today, he's a father of two young children, living in the U.S. state of Ohio, where he was given a new limb and a new lease on life. In an interview with VOAs Ukrainian Service, Pylypchuk shared the story of his close encounter with a tank, how a tourniquet from an American benefactor saved his life, and his journey to recovery. This tank is already coming straight at me In the spring of 2022, Myroslav Pylypchuk found himself face-to-face with a Russian tank. The duel between the 23-year-old man from the western Ukrainian city of Khmelnytskyi and the enemy tank was captured on video by a Ukrainian drone operator. This tank is already coming straight at me, its gun is rising and aiming at me, he told VOA. I think to myself: either I shoot now, or it shoots first. I take the first shot, the grenade from the grenade launcher ricochets off the ground, flies up over the turret, and explodes. The tank stopped and fired exactly at the spot where I was. But all I got were shrapnel pieces that flew through these bushes and hit me. The tank drives into the ditch, turns its turret, and once again targets the spot where I was standing, as if I had really annoyed it, as if I had ruined its day. Then it turns the turret and fires again at the place where I had been. The shell landed where I was, but thank God I had already managed to run about 20 meters away, and the shrapnel from that shell just flew past me." Just two weeks before Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, Pylypchuk found out he was going to be a father. On Feb. 24, he packed his things and joined his military unit in Kyiv, where he was then living and stationed. A graduate of the Lviv Academy of Ground Forces, Pylypchuk served in the Ukrainian army in the Donetsk region, and ended up commanding a company of 80 soldiers. By May 2022, his unit had taken the village of Tsyrkuny in Kharkiv region back from Russian forces. During just a few months on the front lines, he nearly lost his life three times. "Shrapnel in one case, a rocket in another, then the tank missed," he recalled. A gift from an American that saved his life However, Lieutenant Pylypchuks luck ran out during the Kharkiv fighting, when he stepped on a landmine. Im walking at one point, I hear an explosion and fall. I try to take a step with my left leg and fall again, he told VOA. I look at my leg I was wearing new gear, light-colored and I look at my leg, and it's already completely red. The blast from the landmine also destroyed two of Pylypchuks first aid kits and all his medical supplies. He said it was like hed been turned into a human sieve even the scissors for cutting clothing were twisted and scattered in all directions. However, he still had another tourniquet on him a gift that Ron Jackson, an American volunteer who had been traveling to Ukraine for years to help its military, had given him just before the war started. Jacksons tourniquet was applied around his chest, saving his life. But the landmine explosion had completely shattered the bone in Pylypchuks upper left leg. The medics who treated Pylypchuk at the scene loaded him into the trunk of a Soviet-made Niva SUV for transport to a hospital in Kharkiv. The Niva pulls up, and Im thinking, Where am I supposed to sit?, because there were two in the car already: one was driving, and the other was covering the window, just in case, God forbid, any sabotage groups showed up. And then they just threw me into the trunk like a sack of potatoes, he recalled with a smile. With every bump in the road, the adrenaline wore off, and the pain got worse: I felt like the donkey from Shrek, asking, How much longer? When is it going to get better? They drove me around Kharkiv for about half an hour to forty minutes. I was holding on with every last bit of strength just to stay conscious. As soon as I saw the hospital doors open and that bright light, I closed my eyes. The doctors were shocked that Id stayed conscious until the very last moment. Doctors fought for over six hours to save Pylypchuks life, and he was unconscious for three days. However, the shrapnel that entered his body had passed through the ground and trees, causing a blood infection one so serious that his left leg had to be amputated. Recovery in the US Pylypchuk needed a prosthetic for his leg, but the waiting list in Ukraine was long, so he looked for other options. He called Jackson, the American whose tourniquet had saved his life, who introduced Pylypchuk to Ihor, a Ukrainian immigrant who knew a prosthetist in Ohio. Thanks to Ihor, who became Pylypchuks sponsor during his move to Ohio, the prosthetic was fitted in the U.S. in October 2022. Pylypchuk also received help through individual donations and free consultations from the prosthetist. In just two weeks an incredibly fast recovery he was walking on his own. What motivated me was the desire to live, because, well, God didnt give me a second chance for no reason He gave me the opportunity to stay alive, Pylypchuk told VOA. More than two years after stepping on the landmine, Pylypchuk is still undergoing rehabilitation and preparing for additional surgeries. Now living in the U.S. temporarily thanks to Uniting for Ukraine, a special U.S. government parole program for Ukrainians fleeing the Russian invasion, he continues to raise funds for and send essential supplies to his fellow soldiers on Ukraines front lines. Pylypchuk has a two-year-old son, Mark, and a daughter, Evelina, who was born in the United States. He hopes that by the time he fully recovers, the war in Ukraine will be over and he, his wife and two children can return home. He would like to pursue a career in information technology. For now, he is focusing on his recovery and enjoying fatherhood. "You only have one life, and you have to live it fully, without being afraid of not doing something. If you want to do something, you need to do it. And appreciate what you have. Above all your life," he said. Gunmen attacked a bus and car Monday in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, killing at least three people and wounding seven others, Israeli emergency services said. The attack happened near the Palestinian town of Al-Funduq. Israels military said its forces were pursuing the attackers and using blockades to cordon off villages in the area. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed condolences for the victims and vowed to find those responsible. No one will get away, Netanyahu said on X. Violence has surged in the West Bank since the October 2023 Hamas attack on southern Israel and the resulting Israeli military campaign in the Gaza Strip. Palestinian health officials say Israeli troop fire and attacks by Israeli settlers have killed at least 818 Palestinians in the West Bank during that time, while Palestinians have killed dozens of Israelis. Gaza ceasefire U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Monday the United States wants to achieve a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip before U.S. President Joe Biden leaves office in two weeks. But Blinken said if there is no deal by then, he is confident that it will get its completion at some point, hopefully sooner rather than later. The United States, Egypt and Qatar have worked for months to broker a deal between Israel and Hamas, but the warring sides have not come close enough in their terms to reach an agreement. Basic parameters of a proposed deal include a halt in fighting in Gaza, an increase in humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians and the release of hostages still being held by Hamas militants. The war began with the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack in which the militants killed 1,200 people and took about 250 others hostage. There are still about 100 hostages being held in Gaza, with at least one-third of them believed to be dead. Israels counteroffensive has killed at least 45,800 people and injured more than 109,000, according to the health ministry in Gaza. The ministry does not differentiate between militants and civilians in its count. The United States, United Kingdom, European Union and others have designated Hamas as a terror group. Some information for this report was provided by from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters President Joe Biden is set to visit New Orleans on Monday as the investigation in the New Years Day attack continues. More turmoil in South Korea as Yoon Suk Yeols chief of security will not cooperate with a warrant for the former presidents arrest. Protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu grow more intense as a deal to end the war and bring the hostages home looks promising. Political prisoners released in Myanmar; plus, a look at the effort to make the U.S. government smaller and more efficient. Nine civilians including women and children were killed in an attack on a vehicle in Mali's Segou region last week, a civil society group and a rebel coalition said late Saturday, accusing the army and Russian mercenaries of being responsible. The vehicle was traveling from the town of Niono to a refugee camp in Mauritania on Thursday when it came under fire, said Mohamed Elmaouloud Ramadane, spokesperson for the coalition of Tuareg groups that are fighting for an independent homeland in northern Mali. He and local civil society association Kal Akal said Malian armed forces and allied fighters from Russia's Wagner private military contractor group had carried out the attack. In a separate statement, the head of Kel Ansar, one of the largest Tuareg groups, called for an investigation but said Malian troops were not behind the bloodshed. The Malian army did not respond to a request for comment. Wagner could not immediately be reached. Wagner fighters have been in Mali since the army seized power in two coups in 2020 and 2021 and kicked out French and U.N. troops. They have been supporting Malian forces in their battle with Islamist insurgents and the Tuareg separatists. In December, Human Rights Watch said Mali's armed forces, supported by Wagner, and Islamist armed groups had committed serious abuses against civilians in violation of the laws of the war. The newly appointed defense minister in Syrias caretaker government, Murhaf Abu Qasra, has been holding meetings with various rebel factions in the country, aiming to bring them under the command of Syrias defense ministry. Abu Qasra said in a statement Monday that such meetings aim to develop a roadmap for stabilizing the militarys organizational structure. Syrias new authorities announced shortly after the ouster of former President Bashar al-Assad last month that unifying all rebel groups and other armed forces under a national military would be a top priority in the post-Assad era. Dozens of rebel factions and armed forces emerged over the course of Syrias conflict, which began in 2011, with the aim of either fighting the Assad regime or protecting local communities. Before taking up his current role as defense minister, Abu Qasra served as a key commander in Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the main rebel group that spearheaded the 11-day offensive culminating in Assads ouster on Dec. 8, 2024. HTS, a U.S.-designated terrorist organization with former ties to al-Qaida, has emerged as the dominant force within Syrias new leadership. Its leader Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, recently called on all armed groups in the country to join a unified military, pledging to dissolve the HTS as part of the process. Nicholas Heras, a Middle East expert at the Washington-based New Lines Institute, said the HTS-led caretaker government is facing the reality that there are heavily armed, well-organized actors within Syria who mistrust its intentions and do not see it as the permanent successor to the Assad regime. The consequence of Syrias multi-factional civil war is that despite the relative strength of HTS compared to other armed groups in western Syria, the HTS-led caretaker government is still limited in its resources and operating under the shadow of distrust and terrorist designation from powerful foreign actors, he told VOA. One of the major groups that the interim government seeks to integrate into the Defense Ministry is the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The SDF, a Kurdish-led military alliance, has been a key U.S. partner in the fight against the Islamic State terror group. It controls a vast territory in northeast Syria, but Turkey considers it a terrorist organization and has vowed to eliminate it unless its fighters disarm. Since Assads fall, Turkish-backed Syrian proxies have intensified their clashes with the SDF in parts of northern Syria, dislodging them from several towns in Aleppo province. The SDF has stated it will not lay down its arms without a genuine political process in Syria, one in which it can play a key role in shaping the countrys future military. Last week, a meeting took place between Syrias de facto leader al-Sharaa and SDF officials in Damascus, but details of the discussion havent been disclosed. While I'm sure the group wants to do the right thing by the Syrian people and for the country of Syria, when locked in an existential fight against a powerful military like Turkey, not to mention threats from a resurgent Islamic State and other non-state armed groups, it would be crazy for the SDF to unilaterally disarm, said Colin Clarke, director of research at The Soufan Group. The SDF's number one priority is survival, and Syria is not the kind of country where any minority group can afford to readily give up its arms, even if a government promises security and safety, he told VOA. Analyst Heras believes there are limitations in the power of HTS to impose its order on Syria at this point, because the Druze community in Sweida [in the south] doubts that HTS can restrain the more extremist elements in its coalition, the SDF will not surrender the autonomy of its region of control, and other actors such as the Southern Operations Room, the Turkish-backed Turkmen majority groups in northern Syria, the Christian militias in Homs, and the slowly gathering Alawite clans in the mountains by the coast are all demanding a stake in the future of Syria. He said militias in Syria, even many within the Sunni Arab community, want HTS to bask in the glory of dealing the death blow to the Assad regime, and then exit left to allow a future Syrian state to take center stage. At this time, however, many of the Syrian militias believe that HTS is looking to replace the Baath [the former ruling party] with its own form of authoritarianism. Myles Caggins, a former spokesperson for the global coalition against IS, said the new government in Syria should take inclusive steps to secure international support. Syria must form a government that respects human rights, protects the rights of minorities and is inclusive, including within the security forces, he told VOA. Only then Syria will rise quickly to a place of international relevance. This story originated in VOAs Kurdish service. It has been 18 months since the United States reopened its embassy in Victoria, Seychelles, 27 years after Washington left the island nation. Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands strategically located in the Indian Ocean at the confluence of Africa, South Asia and the Gulf states. The small African country is not only attractive to the U.S. for its trade and investment potential but is also a place of importance to U.S. foreign policy, given its open sea-lanes, fisheries and the marine environment, according to the U.S. Embassy. With the U.S. reestablishing a diplomatic presence in the country, it has also become a geopolitical playing field for Washington and Beijing as they compete for influence in Africa and the world. During the Cold War, the U.S. had a tracking station in Seychelles to monitor Russian satellites. Several years after the Iron Curtain fell, the U.S. closed the station and its embassy. In Washingtons absence, China filled the void and gained influence in the island nation through construction projects, education initiatives and other soft power ventures. Washington, aware that Beijing had gained a foothold, began reengaging with the country in 2023. Seychelles is one of several island nations the U.S. has deemed strategically important in its attempt to counter China on the global stage. In the Pacific, the U.S. reopened its embassy in the Solomon Islands in 2023 and established an embassy in Tonga. The following year, the U.S. opened an embassy in Vanuatu. While it is yet to be seen what direction the second Trump administration will take globally in its China policy, VOA traveled to the main island of Mahe in Seychelles to look at how China and the U.S. have impacted the country, and how each is fairing in that competition for influence there. North Korea on Monday fired a ballistic missile that flew 1,100 kilometers (685 miles) before landing in waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan, South Korea's military said, extending its weapons testing weeks before Donald Trump returns as U.S. president. The South's Joint Chiefs of Staff said the midrange missile was fired from an area near the North Korean capital Pyongyang and that the launch preparations were detected in advance by the U.S. and South Korean militaries. It denounced the launch as a provocation that poses a serious threat to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. The joint chiefs said the military was strengthening its surveillance and defense posture in preparation for possible additional launches. Japan's Defense Ministry said the missile landed outside its exclusive economic zone and that there were no reports of damage to vessels or aircraft. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed concern that the North's accelerated pace in missile tests is advancing its capabilities. The North last year tested various nuclear-capable systems that threaten its neighbors and the United States, including a new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile that achieved both the highest altitude and longest flight time of any missile the country has launched. Blinken holds talks in Seoul as political turmoil shakes South Korea The launch came as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was visiting Seoul for talks with South Korean allies over the North Korean nuclear threat and other issues. Blinken's visit comes amid political turmoil in South Korea following President Yoon Suk Yeol's short-lived martial law decree and subsequent impeachment by parliament last month, which experts say puts the country at a disadvantage in getting a steady footing with Trump ahead of his return to the White House. In a news conference with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul, Blinken condemned North Korea's latest launch, which violates U.N. Security Council resolutions against the North. He also reiterated concerns about the growing alignment between North Korea and Russia in Moscow's war on Ukraine. According to U.S., Ukrainian and South Korean assessments, North Korea has sent more than 10,000 troops and conventional weapons systems to support Moscow's war campaign. There are concerns that Russia could transfer to North Korea advanced weapons technology in return, which could potentially enhance the threat posed by leader Kim Jong Un's nuclear-armed military. Blinken described the military cooperation between Russia and North Korea as a "two-way street," saying Russia has been providing military equipment and training to the North and "intends to share space and satellite technology." Blinken and Cho both dismissed concerns about damage to the U.S.-South Korea alliance in the aftermath of the political turmoil in Seoul. Experts had warned that Yoon's martial law decree which lasted only hours but has rattled politics, high-level diplomacy and financial markets for weeks exposed the fragility of South Korea's democratic system in a divided society. "We had serious concerns about some of the actions that President Yoon took and we communicated those directly to the government," Blinken said. "At the same time we have tremendous confidence in the resilience of South Korea's democracy, in the strength of its institutions and in the efforts that it's making to work through those institutions, pursuant to the constitution and the rule of law to resolve differences and to do so peacefully." Kim's warning ahead of Trump's return In a year-end political conference, Kim, the North Korean leader, vowed to implement the "toughest" anti-U.S. policy and criticized the Biden administration's efforts to strengthen security cooperation with Seoul and Tokyo, which he described as a "nuclear military bloc for aggression." North Korean state media did not specify Kim's policy plans or mention any specific comments about Trump. During his first term, Trump met Kim three times for talks on the North's nuclear program. Even if Trump returns to the White House, a quick resumption of diplomacy with North Korea could be unlikely. Kim's strengthened position built on his expanded nuclear arsenal, deepening alliance with Russia and the weakening enforcement of U.S. international sanctions presents new challenges to resolving the nuclear standoff, experts say. It's unclear whether Trump would be as active as Biden in strengthening U.S. alliances in Asia. During his first term, Trump complained about the cost of keeping 28,000 U.S. troops in South Korea to deter North Korean threats and constantly pushed for significant increases in Seoul's defense contributions. There are also concerns in Seoul that Trump's "America first" approach would damage South Korean interests in trade through increased tariffs and other measures. South Koreas anti-corruption agency is seeking an extension of the arrest warrant for impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, and for police to assist in so-far unsuccessful efforts to arrest Yoon. The warrant approved by a court last week to arrest Yoon was set to expire Monday afternoon. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials wants to question Yoon in response to the martial law decree he issued Dec. 3, which set off a political crisis in the country and quickly led to his impeachment. Investigators tried to execute the warrant last week, but hundreds of security forces blocked access to Yoons residence. The failure prompted the anti-corruption agency to try to enlist the help of the police to execute the warrant and arrest Yoon. Yoons lawyers have rejected the authority of the anti-corruption agency and called the arrest warrant unlawful. Some information for this report was provided by from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters Chinese hackers were involved in most of the cyberattacks against Taiwan last year, which doubled to a daily average of 2.4 million, Taiwanese security officials said. China regards Taiwan as part of its territory and for years has been ramping up military, diplomatic and political pressure on the island to accept its claims of sovereignty. Taiwan says cyberattacks have also increased as Beijing uses a range of "grayzone" methods to harass the islan tactics that fall short of an act of war. Most of the daily attacks received by Taiwan's Government Service Network were attributed to China's "cyber force," the National Security Bureau said in a report on Sunday. Defense, telecommunications and transport were among the top targets, with many of the cyberattacks "effectively detected and blocked," it said. "The growing numbers of attacks pinpoint the increasingly severe nature of China's hacking activities," the report said. "Its techniques have become increasingly sophisticated and covered a wide range of targets, such as government agencies, critical infrastructure and high-tech manufacturing industry." Chinese hackers carried out Distributed Denial of Service attacks on Taiwan's transport and financial sectors when Beijing held military drills near the island, "intending to intensify the harassment effect and military intimidation," the bureau said. Several countries, notably the United States, have voiced alarm in recent years at what they say is hacking activity backed by Beijing targeting their governments, militaries and businesses. China has denied the allegations, previously insisting it opposes and cracks down on all forms of cyberattacks. Beijing last week rejected accusations that a China state-sponsored actor was behind a cyber breach at the U.S. Treasury Department, calling the claims "groundless." by Dan Donovan OTTAWA, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Monday that he is stepping down as the Liberal Party leader but will stay on as prime minister until a new leader is selected, and the announcement has left Canada and Canadians treading water in choppy seas. The House of Commons was scheduled to resume on Jan. 27, with the Conservatives planning to advance a non-confidence motion. Other opposition parties had indicated their readiness to bring down Trudeau's minority Liberal government. Trudeau's request for prorogation buys the Liberals time to run an expedited leadership race without facing a confidence vote. Prorogation until March 24, the longest period allowed by law for the House to be out of session, is expected to be approved officially by the Governor General. This will end the current parliamentary session and halt all legislative business, including those proposed in Trudeau's controversial fall economic statement. A new session of Parliament would begin with a Speech from the Throne, setting the stage for a key confidence vote that could trigger a federal election in May if the Liberals fall. Trudeau's decision to continue as prime minister through the next two months comes as Canada braces for the start of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's second term and his threats of 25 percent tariffs on imports from Canada. A majority of members of Parliament from the regional Liberal caucuses told Trudeau over the Christmas break that he must step aside. A national, daylong caucus to discuss the matter had been set for Wednesday, but this is now moot with a leadership race underway. Liberal members of Parliament and party members will be briefed in the coming days on the party's constitution and caucus' role in the upcoming leadership campaign. According to the Liberal Party of Canada's constitution, "upon the occurrence of a leadership trigger event," or if the leader announces resignation, a meeting of the national board of directors must be called within 27 days. In consultation with the caucus, the board could appoint an interim leader. The top party officials would also be required to set a date for a leadership vote and other parameters around the race. Trudeau has been the leader of the Liberal Party of Canada since 2013 and prime minister since 2015. In short, here is what to expect next: Interim leadership: Trudeau will remain as prime minister until a new Liberal leader is selected. Leadership contest: The Liberal Party will conduct a nationwide competitive process to select a new leader. This process typically spans several months and includes a formal leadership convention. Given the current circumstances, the Liberals will have to select a new leader in time for the return of Parliament at the end of March. Parliament prorogued: Trudeau has prorogued Parliament until March 24, halting all proceedings, including debates and votes. This suspension buys time for the Liberal Party to organize the leadership race. New leader becomes prime minister: Once elected, a new Liberal leader will automatically become the prime minister, replacing Trudeau until the next general election. Governance during transition: During this period, Canada will continue to be governed by Trudeau. The only way this could change is if the Liberal caucus demands on Wednesday that Trudeau step down immediately, but this is not expected given his announcement Monday that he is leaving upon the selection of a new Liberal leader. Several candidates are expected to enter the Liberal leadership race to replace Trudeau in the coming days, including former Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney, former Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, former B.C. Premier Christy Clark, and Trudeau confidant and current Finance Minister Dominic Leblanc. Two wildly audacious films Brady Corbet's 215-minute postwar epic The Brutalist and Jacques Audiard's Spanish language, genre-shifting trans musical Emilia Perez won top honors at the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday. The Globes, which are still finding their footing after years of scandal and makeover, scattered awards around to a number of films. But the awards group put its strongest support behind a pair of movies that sought to be unlike anything else. The Brutalist was crowned best film, drama, putting one of 2024s most ambitious films on course to be a major contender at the Academy Awards. The film, shot in VistaVision and released with an intermission, also won best director for Corbet and best actor for Adrien Brody. "I was told that this film was un-distributable," said Corbet. No one was asking for a three-and-half-hour film about a mid-century designer in 70mm. But it works. Emilia Perez won best film, comedy or musical, elevating the Oscar chances of Netflixs top Oscar contender. It also won best supporting actress for Zoe Saldana, best song (El Mal) and best non-English language film. Karla Sofia Gascon, the film's transgender star who plays a Mexican drug lord who undergoes gender-affirming surgery, spoke for the film. The light always wins over darkness," said Gascon, gesturing to her brightly orange dress. You can maybe put us in jail. You can beat us up. But you never can take away our soul or existence or identity. I am who I am. Not who you want. The night's big actor winners included some surprises. One shocker was Moore's win for best actress in a comedy or musical. Her comeback performance in The Substance," about a Hollywood star who resorts to an experimental process to regain her youth, landed the 62-year-old Moore her first Globe a victory that came over the heavily favored Mikey Madison of Anora. "Im just in shock right now. Ive been doing this a long time, like over 45 years, and this is the first thing Ive ever won as an actor," said Moore, who was last nominated by the Globes for a film role in 1991 for Ghost. Thirty years ago, I had a producer tell me that I was a popcorn actress. Best actress, in a drama film, was a surprise, too. The Brazilian actress Fernanda Torres won for her performance in Im Still Here, a based-on-a-true-story drama about a family living through the disappearance of political dissident Rubens Paiva in 1970s Rio de Janeiro. Best supporting actor in a musical or comedy went to Sebastian Stan for another movie about physical transformation: A Different Man, in which Stan plays a man with a deformed face who's healed. Stan, who was also nominated for playing Donald Trump in The Apprentice," noted that both films were hard to get made. These are tough subject matters but these films are real and they're necessary, said Stan. But we can't be afraid and look away. Glaser lightly roasts the Globes Comedian Nikki Glaser kicked off the Globes, with a promise: I'm not here to roast you. But Glaser, a stand-up whose breakthrough came in a withering roast of Tom Brady, made her way around the ballroom of the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California, on Sunday picking out plenty of targets in an opening monologue she had worked out extensively in comedy clubs beforehand. While Glaser might not have reached Tina Fey and Amy Poehler levels of laughs, the monologue was mostly a winner, and a dramatic improvement over last years host, Jo Koy. Last year's Globes, following a diversity and ethics scandal that led to the dissolution of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, were widely panned, but delivered where it counted. Ratings rebounded to about 10 million viewers, according to Nielsen. CBS, who waded in after NBC dumped the Globes, signed up for five more years. Hosting the Globes two weeks before the inauguration of Donald Trump, Glaser reserved perhaps her most cutting line for the whole room of Hollywood stars. You could really do anything ... except tell the country who to vote for, said Glaser. But its OK, youll get em next time ... if there is one. Im scared. The Globes are now owned by Todd Boehlys Eldridge Industries and Dick Clark Productions, which acquired the award show from the now defunct Hollywood Foreign Press Association. After diversity and ethics scandals, the HFPA sold off the Globes and dissolved. However, more than a dozen former HFPA members are seeking to have the sale to Eldridge Industries and Dick Clark Productions rescinded. A win for Wicked The Globes' award for cinematic and box-office achievement went to Jon M. Chu's Wicked, which has nearly collected $700 million in theaters. In a heavily arthouse Oscar field, Wicked is easily the biggest hit seen as having a chance to win best picture. Accepting the award, Chu argued for a radical act of optimism in art. Though few film awards have been predictable this season, Kieran Culkin is emerging as the clear favorite for best supporting actor. Culkin won Sunday for his performance in Jesse Eisenbergs A Real Pain, his second Globe in the past year following a win for the HBO series Succession. He called the Globes basically the best date night that my wife and I ever have, and then thanked her for putting up what you call my mania. The papal thriller Conclave took best screenplay, for Peter Straughan's script. Flow, the wordless Latvian animated parable about a cat in a flooded world, took best animated film, winning over studio blockbusters like Inside Out 2 and The Wild Robot. Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross won best score for their thumping music for Challengers. TV prizes Most of the TV winners were oft-awarded series, including the Emmy champ Shogun." It won four awards, including best drama series and acting wins for Hiroyuki Sanada, Anna Sawai and Tadanobu Asano. Other repeat winners were: "Hacks" (best comedy series, actress for Jean Smart), The Bear (Jeremy Allen White for best actor) and Baby Reindeer (best limited series). Ali Wong won for best stand-up performance, Jodie Foster for True Detective and Colin Farrell for his physical transformation in The Penguin. I guess it's prosthetics from here on out," said Farrell. Two Indian chemical companies have been indicted for allegedly importing ingredients for the highly addictive opioid fentanyl into the United States and Mexico, the U.S. Department of Justice said Monday. Athos Chemicals and Raxuter Chemicals, both based in Gujarat, were each charged in Brooklyn with distributing the ingredients and conspiring to distribute them. Raxuter and senior executive Bhavesh Lathiya, 36, were also charged with smuggling, and introducing misbranded drugs into interstate commerce. Lathiya was arrested on Saturday in New York and ordered detained pending trial, after prosecutors called him a flight risk and a substantial danger to the community. "The Justice Department is targeting every link in fentanyl trafficking supply chains that span countries and continents and too often end in tragedy in the United States," U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement. A federal public defender representing Lathiya declined to comment. Athos and Raxuter did not immediately respond to similar requests outside business hours. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid about 50 times more powerful than heroin and 100 times more powerful than morphine. Opioids accounted for about 82,000 U.S. deaths in 2022, 10 times the number in 1999, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prosecutors said that since February 2024, the defendants supplied "precursor" chemicals they knew would be used to make fentanyl, and hid their efforts by mislabeling packages, falsifying customs forms, and making false declarations at border crossings. One indictment said that in October 2024 video calls with an undercover agent posing as a fentanyl manufacturer, Lathiya agreed to sell 20 kilograms of the precursor chemical 1-boc-4-piperidone, and suggested mislabeling them as an antacid. Lathiya did this after the agent told him his Mexico clients were "very happy with the quality of what you sent me," and with the "yield" from the resulting fentanyl, the indictment said. The other indictment said Athos agreed last February to sell 100 kilograms of the same chemical to a known drug trafficker in Mexico who was making fentanyl in connection with a drug trafficking organization. Lathiya faces up to 53 years in prison if convicted, the Justice Department said. The head of Uganda's military, who is also the son of longstanding President Yoweri Museveni, said he wanted to behead the country's most prominent opposition leader. Muhoozi Kainerugaba is widely believed to be the heir apparent to his father, who has governed Uganda since 1986. Kainerugaba routinely makes inflammatory posts on social media, including a threat in 2022 to invade neighboring Kenya. Kainerugaba later apologized for that threat. He sometimes says that certain posts are meant ironically. In a post on X on Sunday evening, Kainerugaba said his father, whom he referred to by the honorific Mzee, was the only person protecting opposition leader Bobi Wine from him. "If Mzee was not there, I would cut off his head today," Kainerugaba posted. Bobi Wine, whose legal name is Robert Kyagulanyi and who finished second to Museveni in the 2021 presidential election, responded on X that he did not take the threat lightly, saying there had been several previous attempts on his life. Kainerugaba responded: "Finally! I woke you up? Before I behead you, repay us the money we loaned you," suggesting the government had previously bought off Wine to undermine the opposition. Spokespeople for the government and Kainerugaba were not immediately reachable for comment. A spokesperson for the armed forces declined to comment. The government spokesperson has previously said Kainerugaba's social media posts should be understood as "casual" comments and not taken seriously or as reflecting government policy. Wine, a popular musician turned politician has parlayed his star power into a career as Museveni's most formidable challenger. He rejected the results of the 2021 election, alleging ballot stuffing and intimidation. Human rights activists have also accused Museveni's government of widespread human rights abuses, including torture and arbitrary detention. Uganda's government has repeatedly denied allegations of election fraud and human rights abuses. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has criticized those "spreading lies and misinformation" after Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla and adviser to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, accused Starmer of involvement in a cover-up of historical cases of child sexual exploitation. In a series of posts on his social media site X in recent days, Musk accused, without providing evidence, the British government of failing to adequately investigate and prosecute so-called "grooming gangs" in Britain. "Starmer was complicit in the RAPE OF BRITAIN when he was head of Crown Prosecution for 6 years. Starmer must go and he must face charges for his complicity in the worst mass crime in the history of Britain," Musk wrote on X on Jan. 3. Starmer was Britain's director of public prosecutions from 2008 to 2013, when many of the sexual abuse cases first came to light. Musk later described Jess Phillips, Britain's minister for safeguarding and violence against women and girls, as a "rape genocide apologist." In a poll posted to his 210 million followers on X, Musk asked respondents whether "America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government." Grooming gang inquiries The grooming gang investigations stretch back over two decades, involving the sexual exploitation of children between 1997 and 2013 by gangs of men in cities including Rochdale in northern England. "There was a feeling that grooming gangs, particularly those made up of men from Pakistani descent, weren't being prosecuted and weren't being investigated by police as strongly as they should have been," said Tim Bale, a professor of politics at Queen Mary University of London. "Partly, I think, because of the police's attitude towards the complainants mainly working-class girls who weren't taken very seriously by the police. And also, some would allege, because of sensitivities surrounding the community relations aspect in other words, police and authorities being scared of being called racist." Hundreds of men have been convicted of the crime of "gang grooming" since 2005, with a disproportionate percentage of them from south Asian heritage. Critics such as London's Full Fact and others, however, contest the claim that such crimes are disproportionately carried out by men of Asian descent. And some analyses, such as a 2020 study from the Home Office, have said inconsistent data collection and reporting makes it difficult to draw conclusions over links between ethnicity and child sexual exploitation. A review published by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority last year into grooming in Rochdale found that the Greater Manchester Police and Rochdale Council failed to properly investigate reports of child sexual abuse by mainly south Asian gangs from 2004 to 2013 despite numerous warnings. Members of grooming gangs have been prosecuted in several other British cities. Among those alleging an establishment cover-up was the activist Tommy Robinson, the founder of the extreme far-right group English Defence League, who is currently in jail for contempt of court after repeating false claims about a Syrian refugee child. Musk wrote on X on January 1: "Why is Tommy Robinson in a solitary confinement prison for telling the truth? He should be freed and those who covered up this travesty should take his place in that cell." Misinformation and lies Speaking Monday, Prime Minister Starmer criticized the support for Robinson. "Those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible, they're not interested in victims, they're interested in themselves. Those who were cheerleading Tommy Robinson aren't interested in justice. They're supporting a man who went to prison for nearly collapsing a grooming case, a gang grooming case," Starmer told reporters. "Child sexual exploitation is utterly sickening," Starmer said, adding that "for many, many years, too many victims have been completely let down, let down by perverse ideas about community relations or by the idea that institutions must be protected above all else." Starmer defended his actions as director of public prosecutions, noting that he had reopened numerous child abuse cases, appointed a prosecutor to deal specifically with grooming gangs and brought the first prosecution of an Asian grooming gang in Rochdale in 2012. "When I left office, we had the highest number of child sexual abuse cases being prosecuted on record," Starmer said Monday. However, Musk repeated his criticism hours later, labeling the prime minister "utterly despicable" in a post on X. Starmer dilemma Starmer did not call out Musk by name, noted analyst Bale. "If Elon Musk were just Elon Musk and had nothing to do with Donald Trump and his new administration, I think Starmer could take a rather harder line with him. But because of his closeness at the moment anyway to Donald Trump, Starmer has to, I think, be very careful. He has to choose his words carefully and, therefore, can't go against Musk by name," Bale said. Trump is set to be inaugurated as U.S. president on January 20. He has asked Musk to co-lead a new "Department for Government Efficiency." Musk has not only intervened in British politics. In recent weeks he has strongly criticized German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and voiced open support for the far-right Alternative for Germany party, which is being monitored by authorities for extremism. Germany is set to hold an election next month. Some European lawmakers have called for regulators to take action against Musk's social media platform, X, for allegedly spreading misinformation. "I doubt, however, that actually that much will happen in that respect," said Bale, "because although Elon Musk likes to see himself as a kind of free speech absolutist, most politicians in most countries in most parties are themselves in favor of free speech." Farage twist In a further twist, Musk on Monday appeared to turn on Nigel Farage, a longtime ally of Trump and leader of Britain's Reform party, which has been courting financial support from Musk. Musk wrote on X that Farage "doesn't have what it takes" to lead Britain's Reform party, after Farage refused to support jailed activist Tommy Robinson. Farage replied that he stood by his position. Farage on Friday described Musk as a hero for supporting free speech but added that he has "a whole range of opinions, some of which I agree with very strongly, and others of which I am more reticent about." The U.S. Congress certified Monday that Donald Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris in the November presidential election, setting the stage for his inauguration in two weeks to a second nonconsecutive four-year term in the White House. Under U.S. law, sitting vice presidents preside over the Electoral College count of the election results from each of the countrys 50 states, leaving Harris in the position of certifying her own loss. Four years after Trump tried to upend his 2020 reelection loss to Joe Biden and Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol to try to block the certification of Bidens victory, Monday's ratification of the vote was ceremonial, not calamitous. Harris ahead of time described her role in a video message as a "sacred obligation" to ensure the peaceful transfer of power. "As we have seen, our democracy can be fragile," she said. "And it is up to each of us to stand up for our most cherished principles." She passed the documents certifying the vote in each of the states to four lawmakers who read the long-known results, with Trump winning the Electoral College vote, 312-226. Harris, the Democratic candidate, conceded the election after the outcome of the Nov. 5 vote became clear, with Trump, the Republican nominee, winning all seven highly contested political battleground states that were decisive in the election. Harris joined a short list of other vice presidents to oversee the ceremonial confirmation of their election loss as part of their role of presiding over the Senate. Richard Nixon did it after losing to John F. Kennedy in 1960. Al Gore followed suit when the U.S. Supreme Court tipped the 2000 election to George W. Bush. The official Electoral College vote count in Congress was long a formality in the election process, but four years ago turned into chaos as about 2,000 Trump supporters stormed the Capitol, injuring about 140 police officers, ransacking congressional offices, vandalizing the building and sending lawmakers rushing for safety. In 2021, Trump demanded that his vice president, Mike Pence, disqualify votes from battleground states based on false claims that he had been cheated out of reelection by fraudulent voting regulations and vote counts. But Pence refused, with Trump claiming, "Mike Pence didn't have the courage to do what should have been done." Hours after the rioting at the Capitol was quelled by law enforcement authorities, Pence eventually presided over his own reelection loss to another term as vice president and Trumps presidential reelection defeat. "I had no right to overturn the election," Pence said two years later, blaming Trump for the rioting at the Capitol. "And his reckless words endangered my family and everyone at the Capitol that day, and I know history will hold Donald Trump accountable." The events of Jan. 6, 2021, are likely to soon play a leading role in the first moments of the new Trump presidency. The Justice Department says that nearly 1,600 people have been charged with an array of offenses stemming from the rioting four years ago, with many of them already having completed short prison terms on relatively minor charges while others are still facing years behind bars for serious attacks on law enforcement officials. Trump has downplayed the events of the day and characterized those detained as patriots and hostages. He has said he intends to pardon many of those arrested and convicted, possibly within hours of his Jan. 20 inauguration. But the president-elect has not said whether he plans to issue a blanket pardon for everyone who has been charged or yet to be accused or more selective pardons based on individual circumstances of the allegations the rioters faced. While no rioting was expected on Monday, authorities have prepared just in case, erecting tall metal barriers around the Capitol complex. Biden had been highlighting the need for a peaceful process. Speaking Sunday at the White House, Biden called what happened on Jan. 6, 2021, one of the toughest days in American history. Weve got to get back to the basic, normal transfer of power, Biden said. He added that Trumps conduct four years ago, which included repeated false claims that he won the election, "was a genuine threat to democracy. Im hopeful were beyond that now, Biden said. The Somali government said 10 al-Shabab militants were killed in an operation conducted in collaboration with the United States military. In a statement, Somalias information ministry said the operation took place in Beer Xaani town, approximately 60 northwest of Kismayo. The statement was issued on Sunday but did not specify when the operation took place. The operation destroyed a group of Khawaarij [deviants] who were planning to launch an attack. No civilians were harmed during the operation which, according to the statement, was conducted with the help of US strikes. The United States military on Monday confirmed the killing of senior al-Shabab leader Mohamed Mire in an airstrike on Dec. 24 near the town of Kunyo Barrow in Lower Shabelle region. The killing was initially reported by the Somali government two days after the operation. Mire, also known as Abu Abdirahman, was responsible for al-Shabaabs regional governance in Somalia for the last 15 years. In addition to being one of al-Shabaab's longest-serving members, Mire served as the interior minister and played a key role in the group's strategic decision-making, the United States military command in Africa, AFRICOM said in a statement. AFRICOM said it cannot disclose specifics of the mission, stating only that no civilians were harmed. The command will continue to assess the results of the operation and provide additional information as appropriate, said U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, AFRICOM commander, according to the statement. As our National Security Strategy outlines, America remains steadfast in countering the evolving threats of terrorism, Langley said. Al-Shabab, which has been fighting the Somali government for more than 15 years, controls large areas in southern Somalia and pockets in the central region of the country. The United States is finalizing steps to lift barriers on civil nuclear cooperation with Indian firms, U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan said in New Delhi on Monday, calling it a significant step in cementing the bilateral partnership between the two countries. A landmark deal signed in 2007 between India and the United States had ended three decades of sanctions imposed on New Delhi for conducting nuclear tests and opened the door for India to get civil nuclear technology. The agreement was expected to help India meet its burgeoning energy needs. But Indian rules which require the liability in the case of accidents to be met by the firm that sets up a nuclear power plant rather than the operator which do not align with global norms had posed a hurdle to U.S. companies establishing power plants in India. Saying that the formal paperwork to remove long-standing regulations on civil nuclear cooperation will be done soon, Sullivan said that this will be an opportunity to turn the page on some of the frictions of the past and create opportunities for entities that have been on restricted list in the United States to come off those lists and enter into deep collaborations with our private sector, with our scientists and technologists. Sullivans visit to India came two weeks before a new administration under incoming President-elect Donald Trump takes charge. Speaking at the Indian Institute of Technology in New Delhi, he called India-U.S. collaboration crucial for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. Analysts say the visit underlines the strong Indo-U.S. partnership built in recent years and the likely continuity in those ties amid common concerns over China and strong bipartisan support for the relationship. In an editorial, The Indian Express newspaper noted that an important common thread between Trumps previous term and President Bidens administration has been the U.S. policy to strengthen the strategic partnership with India. These bilateral conversations during the final days of the transition between two administrations in Washington underline a growing strategic congruence, the newspaper said. Sullivan said that an initiative launched by the two countries two years ago to bolster their strategic technology partnership was an important component of the relationship. Under the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology, both countries are moving to deepen cooperation in areas like quantum computing, defense, artificial intelligence, 5G wireless networks and semiconductors areas in which China has acquired a dominant position. Pointing out that supply chains are moving out of China, he said that the United States, India and other key democratic partners have been reminded abruptly and sharply that we cannot ignore the ways in which interdependencies can be weaponized against us. The visit is basically a signal from the Biden administration that the India-U.S. relationship is important and their cooperation on critical technologies is an important aspect of this relationship, according to Manoj Joshi, distinguished fellow at the Observer Research Foundation in New Delhi. But while the stars are all aligned for New Delhi and Washington, we really dont know how it will all play out under Trump. Sullivan met Indian national security adviser Ajit Doval and Indian foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in New Delhi. In a post on social media platform X, Jaishankar said Continued our ongoing discussions on deepening bilateral, regional and global cooperation. Valued the openness of our conversations in the last four years. New Delhi and Washington have built close ties in recent years despite differences over Indias continuing ties with Moscow since Russias invasion of Ukraine, and tensions over the alleged involvement of a former Indian government employee in a foiled plot in 2023 to assassinate a Sikh separatist who is a U.S. national. Venezuelan opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez who claims he won last years presidential election against incumbent President Nicolas Maduro met with U.S. President Joe Biden on Monday. After the White House meeting, Gonzalez said he had a long, fruitful and cordial conversation with Biden. We, of course, thanked the United States government for the support it has given us in this fight for democratic recovery in Venezuela. Gonzalez also said he expects a close relationship with the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump. The meeting between Gonzalez and Biden happened just days before Maduro is set to be sworn into office Friday for a third term. Maduro has continued to claim that he was the victor in Venezuelas July election, despite the fact that electoral authorities did not provide detailed vote counts following the election. The opposition maintains its collection of tally sheets from more than 80% of Venezuelas electronic voting machines proves that Gonzalez was the clear winner of the July election. The U.S., most European countries and several Latin American countries have rejected Maduros claims to victory, which have been recognized by Venezuelas top court and electoral authority. The controversial election sparked mass protests which left nearly 30 people dead and over 2,400 arrested. Gonzalez, a 75-year-old former diplomat, has been living in exile in Spain since the election, but has promised to return to Venezuela to be sworn into office Friday. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said Monday Gonzalez would be arrested and tried if he sets foot in Venezuela." Venezuela is offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to Gonzalezs capture. Chinas intensifying gray-zone tactics against Taiwan raise concerns about the People's Armed Police (PAP) potentially playing a key role in a Taiwan invasion. Scholars suggest the PAP could conduct decapitation operations, seize strategic sites and enforce martial law, framing actions as "police operations" to complicate international responses. This ambiguity aims to undermine the legitimacy of neighboring countries supporting Taiwan. Click here for the full story in Mandarin. A human rights organization has released a list of 54 "security and political prisoners" sentenced to death in Iran. According to the list, at least 24 individuals have been sentenced to death in the Revolutionary and Criminal Courts of Tehran, while 20 others received death sentences in courts in the provinces of Khouzestan, Razavi Khorasan, West Azarbaijan, Sistan and Balouchestan, and Kordestan. According to a new report by the Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRAI), published on Monday, the death sentences for these "security and political" prisoners have been upheld by Irans Supreme Court and their cases have been referred to the execution branch for implementation. Click here for the full story in Persian. United Nations Special Envoy to Yemen Hans Grundberg (C) walks to a UN vehicle upon his arrival at Sanaa International Airport in Sanaa, Yemen, on Jan. 6, 2025. Grundberg arrived in Sanaa on Monday, marking his first visit in nearly two years as part of efforts to push forward the stalled peace process. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) ADEN, Yemen, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- United Nations Special Envoy to Yemen Hans Grundberg arrived in the Yemeni capital Sanaa on Monday, marking his first visit in nearly two years as part of efforts to push forward the stalled peace process. A source at Sanaa International Airport told Xinhua that Grundberg, who landed on a UN plane with a team of assistants, was received by Houthi officials and left the airport shortly after for the city center. In a brief statement posted on X, Grundberg emphasized that his visit aims to "urge for concrete and essential actions" by the Houthi group to advance the peace process. The envoy stated that his visit is part of "continuing efforts to support the release of arbitrarily detained UN, NGO, civil society and diplomatic mission personnel." Grundberg's trip follows a meeting on Sunday in Muscat with the head of the Houthi negotiating delegation, where he reiterated the need for tangible measures to facilitate peace talks. The visit is the first by the UN envoy in nearly two years, as tensions and detentions of international staff have hindered the progress of the talks. Over the past two years, the Houthis have detained dozens of employees from UN agencies and international and local non-governmental organizations. Yemen has been in a state of uneasy calm since Oct. 2, 2022, when the government and the Houthi group failed to renew and expand a UN-brokered truce. Despite years of diplomatic efforts, neither side has shown a willingness to resume negotiations to end the conflict, which the UN estimates has killed hundreds of thousands of people and pushed millions to the brink of famine in Yemen. United Nations Special Envoy to Yemen Hans Grundberg (C) walks to a UN vehicle upon his arrival at Sanaa International Airport in Sanaa, Yemen, on Jan. 6, 2025. Grundberg arrived in Sanaa on Monday, marking his first visit in nearly two years as part of efforts to push forward the stalled peace process. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) The release of a video capturing a confrontation between a young woman and a cleric over compulsory hijab laws at Mehrabad Airport on Monday has triggered a wave of reactions on social media. The video shows the woman using the clerics turban as a scarf in protest. Click here for the full story in Persian. Repression against the LGBTQ+ community in 2024 intensified after the Russian Supreme Court's decision in January to recognize the International LGBT Movement as an extremist organization came into force. Last year was marked by the first criminal cases under articles on extremism, the first arrests for extremist symbols in the form of rainbow paraphernalia, and heavy fines for LGBT propaganda. VOA Russian spoke to human rights activists about these repressions and what will happen to LGBTQ+ people in Russia next. Click here for the full story in Russian. Following the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham's (HTS) takeover of the government in Syria, everyday life has become tense in Malula, an ancient Christian town in the Damascus countryside, for over a week. The tensions have escalated but stopped short of turning into a clash between Muslims and the majority Christians in the town. Some residents claim that the tensions derive from sectarian differences within the community while others say that the tensions arose from a feud between a Muslim family and a Christian family. Some residents also say that there are concerns over the HTS, which has no clear policy toward groups of different religions and sects, including Christians. Click here for the full story in Turkish. The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. President Joe Biden visits New Orleans on Monday in the wake of a deadly New Years Day terrorist attack. The FBI is investigating and says the assailant was inspired by Islamic State. VOAs Arash Arabasadi has the story. Welcome back, witches! It has been nearly 90 Lasher childhoods since we last met under the gray-blue filter of televisions most inconsistent magical universe, and, believe it or not, Im absolutely thrilled to be back. It is the only show I can think of that dares to ask questions like: Is it incest to give birth to a reincarnated version of a man you fucked? Does the Montessori method work on demon children? Is this show secretly pro-Catholic propaganda? Should we feel bad for locking Uncle Rapey in a haunted hallway mind prison? I cannot provide adequate answers to any of these questions, but neither can this show, which is what makes Mayfair Witches fun. What makes Lasher fun, in particular, is watching Rowans state of mind toggle between Reba (a single mom who works too hard) and Medea. When last we saw her, Rowan had just fulfilled her Mayfair witch destiny and given birth to a reincarnated version of Lasher in their stadium-sized family crypt and was granted all of his magical powers in exchange. This allowed her to turn her rapist uncle-father Cortland into stone and prompted her breakup with Ciprien. Now, while Ciprien has reverted to doing what he does best stalking for a cause and the rest of the Mayfair relatives remain morally inscrutable, Rowan is attempting to gentle-parent the Satan out of Little Lasher to precisely zero success. I sort of wonder if Rowans magical delivery came with a lobotomy because this seasons Rowan is blissfully, idiotically naive. For instance, a pediatrician really should know that a human infant cannot tauntingly pronounce the word Rowan with a knowing smile on its uncanny valley, AI-generated face. Is he human? Rowan frets to her journal. Girl, obviously, no. He develops at a clip that would put Renesmee to shame, and you cant watch this kid go from toddler to first-grader in one 30-second growth spurt and just be like, They grow up so fast, dont they? Throughout each of Lashers phases of development, Rowan is torn between feeling protective and feeling terrified. Terrified seems like the most logical reaction when your kid wakes you up in the middle of the night gleefully wrenching out his own baby teeth one by one, but it is this shows contention that a five-minute pregnancy is enough to jump-start a maternal instinct so powerful that you can forget that this is a reborn version of a man you had sex with like two weeks ago. You can even ignore the foreboding warnings you read in previous Mayfair witch vessels journals. It seems clear to me, at least, that Little Lasher has actually been Grown-Up Lasher inside a childs body this entire time. I remember them in pieces that fall apart when I look too hard is the kind of thing children only say in fictional anecdotes told by parents on Twitter, which makes Rowans attempts to set boundaries about milk-throwing kind of hilarious in retrospect. Rowan still seems convinced that she contributed some kind of genetic material to this kid, though not so convinced that she doesnt send off a blood sample for testing. Meanwhile, as if disciplining your demon seed wasnt stressful enough, Rowan is also getting conflicting versions of mom-shaming from two Mayfair relatives, one of whom is actually deceased. On one shoulder, she has the ghost of Aunt No. 2, a true Catholic, continually popping in to urge Rowan to kill Little Lasher because it is not a sin to kill the devil. On the other shoulder is Mayfair matriarch Dolly Jean, who is there to help Rowan protect Little Lasher but also, more importantly, to help him undermine her. As Lasher grows from a real nightmare of a toddler to a particularly shitty kid to a creepy teen, Rowan is trying to find out why, exactly, hes chosen to reincarnate. Should he tell her the truth? No, advises Dolly Jean, mysteriously. The one thing we know for sure is that he definitely didnt give Rowan his power in exchange for a body so that she could cure childhood cancer, which she finds disappointing. Rowan seems to finally lose faith in her own parenting skills about a day later when Teen Lasher tries to kiss her. Shes immediately repulsed, obviously, and orders him never to do that again, much to his confusion and distress (the incest meter with Mayfair Witches is all over the place). Anyway, Lasher needs somewhere to put all those newly acquired pubescent hormones, so he takes them out on a girl he finds at a Halloween rave, which somehow kills her. Details unclear. He brings the dead girl home to Rowan, who freaks out and locks him in the basement, earning her her first mommy from her theoretical son, as he begs her to let him out. Elsewhere in the Mayfair-verse, Ciprien, like Rowan, is keeping a captains log to record everything he learned peering into her house from the sidewalk with binoculars. While Rowan is writing up Lashers development in her notebook with notes like, normal for a human.? Ciprien is holed up in the Red Stick Motel (seriously), speaking into a bible like its a tape recorder. He is recording all of the research hes been doing into Rowan and Lasher so that if the Talamasca wipes his memory again, hell be able to touch the bible and get all of the info back. A thing you can also do with a regular tape recorder. Sip, Ciprien tells the bibles spine, if youre touching this bible and seeing this moment for the first time, that means your memory has been erased by Albrecht Escher [formerly known as Big Boss] Dont trust anyone. Aha, I think, at last, Ciprien has learned to be wary of the Magical Bureaucracy. Alas, after being magically chloroformed and kidnapped, the next time we see Ciprien, he is sitting in Albrecht Eschers office and agreeing to recruit a vulnerable Mayfair witch to their side. Our heroes naivete is catching, apparently. The vulnerable Mayfair hes sent to woo is new character Moira, whos been getting on everybodys nerves by bad-mouthing Lasher for second-degree murdering her sister Tessa. (Remember Tessa!) Moira, by the way, is my new favorite character, and the experience tells me shes due to be brutally murdered in the next episode or two. Described by Dolly Jean as nobodys favorite cousin (way harsh, Dolly J), Moira is a mind-reader with an attitude who returns home after being excluded from her own sisters funeral, and she wants answers. This is more difficult than youd expect, considering Moiras mind-reading powers, because everywhere she goes, her relatives all immediately kick her out of the house. Youve never had proper respect for Lashers place in the family, Moiras terrible mother tells her. The Lasher upstairs isnt the Lasher youre talking about; hes a child, Rowan insists when Moira demands to confront him for abandoning Tessa. Even our beloved Josephine helps hustle Moira out of the house. Near the end of Lasher, we have a brief interlude with Cortland, whom Rowan keeps in statue form in her basement. Being turned to stone does not, it turns out, immediately kill a person. Instead, we see that Cortlands consciousness is being kept in a haunted hotel hallway with flickering lightbulbs and doors that wont open. Bummer for him, but at least hes no longer dying of ALS, one thinks. And then a bunch of nightgown-wearing women stampede out of an elevator door and attack. (Remember that he murdered Dierdre in a hotel elevator.) I dont think this is going to kill him, but it does seem unpleasant. But to get back to our main story, the episode closes with Rowan gently dumping the corpse of the girl Lasher killed in a large body of water amidst much fog and trembling hands. Back at the house, Lasher has finally grown to his eternal age of approximately 35 and climbed out the basement window ominously. Additional Questions, Comments, and Concerns I learned in this episode that even though his full name is Ciprien, it is shortened to Sip and not Cip, like Ive spelled it in previous recaps. Apologies. Were talking about a gene therapy cure for blindness, Paul! a man named Lark weve never met before with whom Rowan has some kind of nebulous romantic energy. Congrats to Rowan on her new neurosurgery job, which she acquired, like all of societys most vital positions, through nepotism. Im still laughing at Rowan having nine half-empty half-gallon jars of milk on her counter, a totally normal thing that all frazzled single mothers will surely find relatable. For legal purposes, it is important to note that I do not actually know if AI was used to animate baby Lashers face. Character Study Tracing the evolution of our favorite characters from script to screen. He has a bit of vanity, doesnt he? Hes one buff penguin. And it gets in the way. Photo-Illustration: Vulture; Photos: BBC, Dreamworks, Netflix The character: Feathers McGraw, a lodger first introduced in 1993s The Wrong Trousers who pays 20 a week to stay with Wallace and Gromit while he plots to steal the Blue Diamond at a local museum. Three feet, 12 pounds of pure evil. Becomes a jailbird at a high-security zoo after hes caught, with the newest Wallace & Gromit film, Vengeance Most Fowl, finding Feathers, all these years later, hell-bent on getting even with the duo who locked him up. The material: Clay. And not a lot of it. Essential traits: A master of disguising himself as a chicken good grief, its you skilled at technology, wont flinch at firing a gun or pummeling his enemies. Sweats when he gets nervous. Skilled organist. Refuses to waddle. Has a pet seal. Totally silent and expressionless, which makes him all the more terrifying. Born from a doodle Nick Park, the filmmaker and animator who created the Wallace & Gromit film series, was a college student when he inadvertently began drawing penguins over and over again in his sketchbooks. At the time, he was already beginning work on A Grand Day Out, the series first short film. But instead of incorporating penguins into that particular script, Park had a supplemental idea to maybe make some extra cash. I was trying to think of ways to earn money as a student. I was thinking of book illustration, he says. I could do Wallace & Gromit as kids books. I had this idea of penguins for that. I just liked them visually and comedically. The illustrations never came to fruition, but Parks continued obsession with penguins doubled with the smashing success of A Grand Day Out made him return to the animal several years later when the follow-up film, The Wrong Trousers, was being developed. It started with the idea of lots of penguins coming to stay at Wallace and Gromits house, he explains. Then, for reasons of economy, production said, No, how about one penguin? The clay wasnt a small expense. So I had one penguin. It became more of a comedy and the antics a penguin might get up to domestically in the house. But while developing the idea, Peter Lord, one of the founders of Aardman Animations, challenged Park with a different idea: What if he was a villain? How would that be? It makes it more interesting. Park was intrigued and searched for inspiration from the golden age of Hollywood. I started to play with that notion of Alfred Hitchcock and a stranger in the spare room narrative, like he did in 1923s The Lodger. Throw in some Bernard Herrmann music. I also thought of The Ladykillers or the Ealing comedies of that era, he explains. Once he was a villain, it became much more vital and exciting. That was the attraction to the idea. It was just the unlikeliness of a penguin being a villain. No waddling allowed When Feathers ascended to the villain role, Park imposed a set of rules for his visual characteristics. If you said to most people at the time, Im going to put a penguin in a movie, theyd say, Give him a little waddle and make him funny. We decided to go dead against that, he recalls. That included making Feathers glide around in a very smooth and deliberate way that was devoid of any comic flair. Steve Box, who animated The Wrong Trousers, got strict instructions from Park: Hes a milk bottle. Forget his legs. He just has to move at this slow speed, let his legs go under him, and do whatever they need to do. That somehow made him scarier. The original storyboard design stayed the same throughout production: It had Feathers with a blank face and two pinheads for eyes. You know those thumbtacks with those round heads? With the pin snipped off? Thats him, Parks says. Youve got to find the perfect two that match, because theyre all slightly different, so that took a while. Time and money constraints helped achieve Featherss physicality. We discovered early on that it was all very effective to have him just walk and do small but deliberate turns, he adds, which cut down on the manpower required to fashion the clay. A lot of fellow filmmakers reacted in disbelief at how powerful this little penguin was. Steven Spielberg and Danny Boyle reached out to express admiration, but Parkss family were tougher judges: They had a fear and hatred of him. There was a real disdain for him. The return of the king Park didnt set out to make Vengeance Most Fowl a sequel to The Wrong Trousers. (Companion piece is his preferred term.) He was kicking around an idea about Wallace inventing a coterie of smart gnomes called Norbots to enhance his and Gromits lives, but it lacked a certain type of darkness that the franchise was accustomed to. Wallace & Gromit films always have a sinister side, he notes. As Park remembers it, a lightning strike of an idea came to him about five years ago that would lend itself to bringing back Feathers. Park had previously considered reviving the character once or twice before, but there was never a good reason to do it. It might seem like exploiting a character or theres no good context. This time around, though, Vengeance Most Fowl had a looming story issue: It lacked a villain with a personal motive, which Park and co-director Merlin Crossingham deemed essential. Why not have Feathers use the smart gnome technology for his own evil purpose? That was exactly what we needed and Feathers was the perfect solution, Park says. In this, Feathers is asking the question, Who controls the technology that were all addicted to and rely on? Various cinematic works helped inform how sinister Feathers could become. For The Wrong Trousers, Alfred Hitchcocks Rebecca was the main inspiration for Parks. Mrs. Danvers, played by Judith Anderson, is the housekeeper, he explains. The way she gaslights Joan Fontaines character and the way she moves in and out of the light and almost glides around like a mannequin? Thats Feathers and Gromits dynamic. This influence remained for Vengeance Most Fowl, with the addition of Robert De Niro in Cape Fear. We did a visual parody of it at the beginning where Feathers sits back and you see him observing, Crossingham says. Every time you see him, he isnt doing much, but you know theres a lot going on inside. It was that internal torment De Niro had in Cape Fear that I found particularly interesting. Village of the Damned, based on The Midwich Cuckoos by John Wyndham, also relates to Feathers reprogramming the smart gnomes. They were part of Feathers alter ego. That scared the hell out of me as a kid, Park adds. The Norbots operated by Feathers, when he comes in a room, turn at the same time. It was a deliberate Village of the Damned children type of thing. Hes violent by intent Perhaps the most defining scene in the Wallace and Gromit films is the train chase from The Wrong Trousers, in which Feathers tries to escape the house on a seemingly endless system of tracks. Out of nowhere, he brandishes a gun from his flippers and takes aim at our two protagonists. Park acknowledges that the use of a gun might have come as a shock to more family-friendly audiences, and it was because Feathers had to defend himself from being apprehended. Still, theres more to the character than a violent streak. His villainy is more sophisticated than just straight fighting. He gaslights, Park says. Hes very single-minded. Its just about undermining and getting underneath their skin. He likens Featherss relationship to Gromit as psychological warfare, working his way into a relationship with Wallace to divide and conquer. (Even with a gesture as small as Feathers putting on Wallaces slippers in The Wrong Trousers.) Its clever. Its smartness, Park explains. Thats why hes a perfect antagonist to Gromit, because its smart versus smart. It also helps that Wallace is clueless and unable to identify Feathers while hes wearing a chicken-glove disguise. Feathers can get between them because Gromit knows something is up, Crossingham notes. As a trio of characters, they do that dance nicely because Wallace, in his innocence, is easily deceived and Feathers plays on that. Hell willingly manipulate without care of consequence to any of the other characters. Its selfishly motivated. Fuck around and find out. (Feathers trying to escape in The Wrong Trousers.) Fuck around and find out. (Feathers trying to escape in The Wrong Trousers.) The train-gun-chase equivalent in Vengeance Most Fowl comes when, after a lengthy riverboat pursuit, Feathers and Gromit come to blows on the top of a boat. Their canal route spits them out of a tunnel and hundreds of feet above land. Park and Crossingham had a long discussion about the best method of showcasing their crescendo of a fight, as they wanted to avoid simple fisticuffs. Thats not a very elegant solution. It brings Feathers down. It takes him out of the high-thinking villain who gets other people to do his dirty work and brings him down into the gutter, Crossingham says. Also, Gromit isnt really a fighter like that. We changed it to be them swooping through light and outwitting each other, so its a battle of the wits. For one shot, it looks like Feathers gets the better of him: He keeps Gromit in a choke hold with an umbrella, mirroring his earlier deadly proclivity with the gun. Gromit wiggles away, but its incredibly striking. Its a moment of physical combat that symbolizes their relationship. Then its gone for that very reason, Crossingham explains. Feathers is a very violent character, but hes violent by intent. His Achilles flipper Like any good villain, theres bound to be something that serves as Featherss kryptonite, however minor it may seem. He has a bit of vanity, doesnt he? Crossingham says. Hes one buff penguin. And it gets in the way. This is first recognized in The Wrong Trousers when the character checks and fixes his hair in a mirror before embarking on the diamond heist, and we later see him in Vengeance Most Fowl doing pull-ups in his cell to keep his body in shape. Park was taught by Robert McKee, the great writing teacher, to pepper in those brief moments of relatability. In The Terminator, he talked about the difference between a one-dimensional and a two-dimensional character, he says. At one point in the film, when Arnold Schwarzenegger repairs his eye and puts on his hat and glasses, he looks in the mirror and does that little primping movement with his hands to his face. He has human vanity. We did the same thing in The Wrong Trousers. Even if a moment like that only takes up a few seconds, it allows people to further connect to Feathers. You need that element of, Oh, yeah. I recognize that in myself, Crossingham notes. Im not massively into how I look, but Ill check my hair to make sure it looks okay. If Feathers does the same, all it takes is that one movement so the audience can be, Oh, yeah. Hes a real one. That makes him even scarier. The king enjoying a moment of vanity in The Wrong Trousers (L) and Vengeance Most Fowl (R). The king enjoying a moment of vanity in The Wrong Trousers (L) and Vengeance Most Fowl (R). Mark Burton, who wrote Vengeance Most Fowls screenplay, had a long discussion with Park about how viewers should actually root for Feathers at times even though hes a villain. I do love those films where you start to relate to the villain, because then you want them to win in some way. I was rooting for him to win, Park admits. At times you have to. In one scene, while finalizing his master plan to steal back the Blue Diamond after escaping from zoo jail, Feathers parallels James Bonds archenemy, Blofeld, by showing a softer side to an animal while seated on a chair. He strokes a seal and pats him on the head, so you can see hes got that empathy, Parks says. But Feathers chooses not to use it. Adolf Hitler probably loved his dog and thats whats scary. Were not Vader-ing Feathers Vengeance Most Fowl ends with Feathers, having failed in his quest to possess the diamond Gromit slyly switches bags amid their fight, so hes instead left with a turnip riding a train into the unknown. However, though Feathers escapes on the train, youll notice that Wallace, Gromit, and the rest of the local police force arent bothered to chase after him. Hes de-powered at the end. Hes lost everything he was fighting for and they arent even in pursuit of him, Crossingham says. Feathers has an ego and hed want to be chased, but they didnt. Thats quite demoralizing for a villain like that. I quite like the idea that hes lost in the badlands of Yorkshire, wandering around, and a forlorn shell of his former self. Park has a grimmer read on Featherss ending: A fate worse than prison is being out there ignored. Feathers and his Blofeld-esque seal in Vengeance Most Fowl. The duo are both open to the idea of completing a Feathers film trifecta in the future, but only if they can identify a good idea worthy of him. But Im not making any promises, says Crossingham. The one thing they insist will never happen is a prequel that offers more insight to his life. They blame Star Wars for such an impulse. When I was growing up, one of the worst villains out there was Darth Vader. Then I found out he wasnt as bad as he was supposed to be, Crossingham puts it. I got confused when they tried to explain why he was bad. Park believes adding an origin story is just lazy from a creative perspective. Do we really need to see Feathers as a chick? Theres always going to be a badass penguin, Crossingham adds. Were not Vader-ing Feathers. CARACAS, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- The government of Venezuela on Monday broke diplomatic relations with the Republic of Paraguay and called for the withdrawal of diplomatic personnel in that country, in rejection of President Santiago Pena's statements. BEND Jane Devlin has 14 Siberian huskies, which in the world of dog sledding is considered a small pack. Shes one of two Central Oregon residents preparing for the Idaho Dog Sled Challenge, which is held Jan. 27 through Feb. 5 and includes three races: a 100-mile, a 200-mile and the Warm Lake Stage Race, a 52-mile sprint race. The longest race, typically 300 miles, was cut back due to trail damage from wildfires. However, it remains a qualifier for Alaskas Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Devlin, a veteran of the sport, will compete in the 100-mile race and the sprint race, along with Kelly Barton of Bend. However, Devlins not expecting to win any awards this time around. Shes already bagged a Rocky Mountain Triple Crown, completing the Idaho dog sledding race, Eagle Cap Extreme near Joseph and the Race to the Sky in Montana in the same year. Im just doing it for fun now, Devlin said. Ive got older dogs. I just want them to have fun. More Coverage: New 1-mile showshoe trail at Vista Butte affords workout, views Dog sledding safety Devlins first concern is the well-being of her huskies. Shes a fan of the Idaho race because it prioritizes dog care and musher safety. It also educates the public on the sport as an activity the dogs enjoy, she said. Races such as the one in Idaho afford Devlin a support system. She can enjoy flying across a frozen lake or being out in the middle of an empty trail, knowing her location is being tracked, and she can call for help if she gets in trouble. Mushers are required to stop a checkpoints, where veterinarians check on the dogs as they are given food, water and rest. I dont really race to race. I do it for the adventure, Devlin said, adding she loves the history of the sport and building a working relationship with her dogs. More Coverage: 4 ways to embrace wintertime in Central Oregon Sharing the trails Devlin, who started dry-land training her dogs in September, is an advocate for responsibly recreating on the trails. As more users compete to use the trails, it is of the utmost importance to stay aware and be respectful of others to ensure everyones safety. Most importantly, she recommends slowing down, especially around blind corners. Its also courteous to communicate, signaling if there are group members coming up behind you. Off-leash dogs that are barking and lunging pose a risk for sled dog teams, so she recommends that canine owners have their dog facing toward them. Meloni made surprise flying visit to Trump in Florida. Italy is in advanced talks with Elon Musk's SpaceX over a 1.5 billion deal to supply secure telecommunications services to the government, Bloomberg News reported on Sunday. The five-year contract, which has yet to be signed, reportedly includes a top-level encryption system for the Italian government's telephone networks and internet services, military communications and satellite services for emergencies. The deal has already been approved by Italy's intelligence services and defence ministry, according to the Bloomberg report which cites unnamed sources. The news comes after Italy's right-wing prime minister Giorgia Meloni made a surprise flying visit to US President-elect Donald Trump at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on Saturday. Bloomberg reports that the SpaceX agreement appeared to move forward following the meeting between the two leaders who reportedly discussed issues including possible new US tariffs on EU goods and the war in Ukraine, as well as efforts to free the Italian journalist Cecilia Sala imprisoned in Iran, according to The New York Times. Trump hailed Meloni as a fantastic woman", telling a gathering a Mar-a-Lago that the Italian prime minister "has really taken Europe by storm. Bella serata con @realDonaldTrump che ringrazio per laccoglienza. Pronti a lavorare insieme pic.twitter.com/ohNSSq1vLg Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) January 5, 2025 Meloni's five-hour visit marked the second time that the Italian premier met Trump since he won the US elections in November.During a brief meeting in Paris in early December, on the sidelines of the reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral, Trump described Meloni as a real live-wire. In a social media post on Sunday, Meloni shared a smiling picture of herself and Trump in Mar-a-Lago, writing: "Ready to work together", along with emojis of the flags of Italy and the US. In mid-December, following criticism from the opposition in parliament, Meloni defended her friendship with tech billionaire Musk, telling Italian lawmakers that she would not be influenced in areas where he has economic interests, adding that she had good relationships with many people" but doesn't "take orders from anyone. Meloni's visit to see Trump comes just days before a scheduled Rome visit by outgoing US President Joe Biden on 9-12 January, in what is likely to be his last overseas trip in office before he is succeeded by Trump on 20 January. Photo Palazzo Chigi For the first time, the names of 425,000 individuals who collaborated with the Germans during the occupation of the Netherlands in World War II have been made available online. The names were collected by a special legal system that was established close to the end of the conflict, with the records previously available only through an in-person visit to the Hague. The German occupation of the Netherlands spanned the majority of the Second World War, from 1940-45. On May 10, 1940, the country was invaded alongside Belgium and Luxembourg, despite its stance on neutrality. While the invading troops faced much resistance, they were able to advance at a very rapid pace, which, when paired with the bombing of Rotterdam, ultimately led the Dutch to surrender. As in other occupied countries throughout Europe, there were individuals in the Netherlands who aided the Germans. Known as collaborators, they joined the German Armed Forces, outed Jewish citizens whod gone into hiding and provided goods to help sustain the German war effort, among other activities. The newly-digitized documents, consisting of 32 million pages, are held by the Dutch National Archives and reveal that, of the 425,000 names listed, only around 150,000 were punished for their collaboration. The law that restricted public access to the documents expired on New Years Day, allowing the War in Court project to release them online. Several personal details are revealed in the files, including names, birth dates and places, and addresses, along with references to police and court cases. However, the Dutch government has prevented the publishing of full case files, which will continue to only be accessible at the National Archives, with those requesting to see them requiring a declaration of legitimate interest. The names of those who may still be alive have not been posted. The documents also reveal the names of those who were found innocent after investigations into their wartime activities. The decision to publish them to the internet has drawn criticism from both the families of the accused, as well as the descendants of victims, with The Telegraph reporting that there were concerns that the documents could reignite old tensions and stigmatise individuals linked to the dark history of Dutch collaboration. Critics also argue that releasing the names without the full context of the cases will further increase this stigma. However, those who support the decision say its a much-needed step thatll allow the Netherlands to face a troubling part of its history. Speaking to the BBC, the Huygens Institute, which helped digitize the records, said, This archive contains important stories for both present and future generations. From children who want to know what their father did in the war, to historians researching the grey areas of collaboration. More from us: Who Are the Latest Korean and Vietnam War Veterans to Receive the Medal of Honor? Want War History Onlines content sent directly to your inbox? Sign up for our newsletter here! Its estimated that around 100,000 Dutch Jews perished during World War II. RAMALLAH, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Palestine's gross domestic product (GDP) contracted by 28 percent and its unemployment rate increased to 51 percent in 2024, the Ramallah-based Ministry of Economy said Monday in a statement. "The Palestinian economy is facing an unprecedented shock due to the Israeli war on Gaza and the deduction of tax funds, which has significantly impacted the GDP," it said. Israel collects taxes on behalf of the Palestinian Authority for imports into Palestinian territories and transfers the funds on a monthly basis. Trade exchanges between Palestine and the outside world fell 11 percent year-on-year in 2024, the ministry added. Amidst repeated Israeli military incursions, the systematic destruction of infrastructure, restrictions on the movement of people and goods, and the closure of all crossings with Gaza, among others, Gaza has witnessed the collapse of all economic activities, whereas the West Bank has also seen a sharp decline in economic activities, it noted. Israel has been conducting a large-scale offensive against Hamas in Gaza to retaliate against a Hamas rampage through the southern Israeli border on Oct. 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and about 250 taken hostages. The Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks in Gaza has risen to 45,854, the Gaza-based health authorities said in a statement on Monday. Meanwhile, more than 820 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli gunfire and bombings across the West Bank since October 2023, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. A Waterford man charged with the alleged murder of John O'Connor following a fatal assault in New Ross, County Wexford, was further remanded in custody at Wexford District Court on Monday morning, January 6. The accused, 34-year-old Wayne Roche, formerly of Dominick Place, Waterford, and currently of no fixed abode, appeared before Judge John Cheatle. He's charged with the murder of John O'Connor, at his home in Cluain Fada, New Ross, on December 31, under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act. The late John O'Connor who died on New year's Eve. The accused had appeared before a special sitting of Wexford District Court on Thursday night last where he was remanded in custody to appear before the court again on Monday morning. At Monday morning's sitting, Sgt Victor Isdell sought a two week remand in the case to allow for the preparation of the Book of Evidence. Defence Barrister, Donna Kelly, instructed by Lana Doherty, Solicitor, consented to the remand in the case. Judge Cheatle remanded the accused in custody until January 20 for DPP directions. The defendant will also appear via video link on the next occasion. There was no application for bail in the case as bail cannot be granted at District Court level when the charge is one of murder. Legal aid had been granted in the case at the previous sitting, which took place before a special sitting of Wexford District Court on Thursday night, December 2. At that hearing Detective Garda Conor Walsh gave evidence of arresting the accused at 10.01pm on Thursday. He told the court of having arrested the accused and having cautioned him in relation to the charge, the accused said: "I didn't murder anyone." Judge O'Leary said he had no jurisdiction to grant bail given the seriousness of the charge. Donna Kelly, Defence Barrister, said, as the accused is unemployed, she would make an application for free legal aid. Judge O'Leary said he would grant the application. Minister of State Mary Butler has commended the strong uptake of mental health support launched under the HSE's My Mental Health Plan. Since its launch in May, more than 12,000 people have completed personalised mental health plans, a sign of increasing awareness and proactive attitudes towards mental health in Ireland. Im really pleased to see that 12,000 people have already taken this proactive step in minding their mental health. Waterford TD and outgoing Minister of State at the Department of Health Minister Butler is urging others to take advantage of the free resource, particularly during January, a month often associated with heightened stress and emotional strain. January can be a particularly challenging month for mental health, Minister Butler said. As the festive season ends and daily routines resume, many people face personal pressures from new resolutions, financial strains, and increased loneliness. Mental health difficulties like ongoing stress, low mood, anxiety, and sleep problems are common. People tend to accept them as normal, but they are all part of your mental health. Paul Davis grabbed attention in Waterford last week, as he spun around the city on a nostalgic classic which he has put his own modern twist on. Dublin native Paul is a regular visitor to Waterford, and during his recent appearance, he brought along his Raleigh Chopper bike, which he has kitted out with an electric motor. Paul Davis with his electric Chopper. Photo: Joe Evans The Chopper will be fondly remembered by those who grew up in the 70s and 80s, as the bike became somewhat of a cultural icon at the time, and was credited with single-handedly rescuing Raleigh from the brink of a steep decline due to its massive sales and popularity. Its high-rise handlebars, high back seat and differently sized wheels have made it a recognizable symbol of childhood for many. The bike does remain popular, selling out in minutes upon its long-awaited return to the market in June 2023. Paul, however, says that he prefers to do things his own way, and recently bought a 70s-era bike with the intention of making it uniquely his. I dont follow the flow so to speak, I veer off and make my own way. Its basically the same old-style Chopper, but Im blending new and old, marrying a classic bike with new technology. "I saw two Choppers for sale, so I bought one to do electric and one to keep original. I just happened to come across a few parts and bits and pieces, and so I mixed them together to make the bike my own." Paul added that working with his hands is a form of therapy for him, and he has a quirk for creating unusual combinations: I dont plan anything, its all spontaneous what I do. I have a knack of being able to work out problems and there is always a logic behind everything I do. I built my own guitar, a kayak with an engine in it, all sorts of little gadgets. Ive been nicknamed MacGyver, Doc Brown and the Inventor, and I always have loads of ideas. Its a therapy for me. I suffer from Parkinsons, so I like doing stuff with my hands and staying active. I always embrace a challenge." Paul said the bike has caught considerable attention, and one person even offered to buy it from him. I dont think Ill sell it, he said, and I dont even know how I could value it because its one of a kind. The festive season was brought to a picturesque conclusion as a blanket of snow fell over the Deise, elevating the outstanding natural beauty of the area. Watch out photographer! Waterford locals, John and Maria Ryan enjoying the snow in Fan Glas, Kilmeaden. The first Waterford weather warning of the year came last week, warning that weather conditions could drop below freezing. After the first low-temperature warning, an inundation of warnings swiftly followed with a series of sporting fixtures across Waterford being postponed ahead of the snow and ice weather warning. Roads across Waterford were covered in a blanket of snow. Excitement began to spread among children in Waterford last week as news broke that a leading Met Eireann meteorologist warned that schools might close due to the snow. "There are likely to be accumulations of snow in places on Monday morning, coupled with a very severe frost as well. So there is the possibility that schools may not open," Met Eireann meteorologist Gerry Murphy said. The festive spirits ensured that his comments would come true. The first snow begins to fall in Waterford. Reader submission. Over the weekend, an orange weather warning was issued for the county, cautioning that an area of low pressure was sending up some heavy rain, sleet and snow and the Council's SWAT team was activated! The Severe Weather Assessment Team (SWAT) began monitoring weather conditions locally. The snow couldn't stop falling for kids across Waterford. On Sunday, the announcement came that all secondary schools would close in Waterford, with many primary schools around the Deise following suit. Bus and transport services in the city centre began to operate at a reduced level amidst the snow, with Bus Eireann cancelling their Waterford City Services due to the icy road conditions on Sunday evening. All apprenticeship classes at South East Technological University were then cancelled on Monday due to the weather conditions. "Classes will resume as normal on Tuesday, 7 January." A blanket of snow reveals the beauty of the Dunhill Anne Valley nature reserve area. Photos by Fergal. Temperatures were low in places, but the cold snap heated up in Tramore on Sunday when a power line went on fire, sparking concern when a video was posted online. With the flurry of snowfall on Monday morning came another flurry of weather warnings. Met Eireann issued a status yellow snow-ice warning until 12pm. The warning came as further "wintry showers" were expected to touch ground in Waterford bringing further accumulations of snow. Ziggy the Dog stars in a snowy scene in the Dunhill/Anne Valley nature reserve area. Photos by Fergal. Met Eireann also issued a status yellow caution due to low temperatures and the likely presence of ice in Waterford, which runs until this Friday, January 10. Robbie enjoying his day in the show. The warning cautions that widespread frost, ice and lying snow are likely this week and that temperatures will be "struggling to get above freezing during the day". Sean Cox, Jodie Fagan and Jamie Fagan, with their snowman at Templars Hall. The weather is likely to cause hazardous travelling conditions on roads and underfoot, as well as disruption to travel, Met Eireann has warned. Thanks to all our readers who sent in their snowy photos from across the Deise! Another weather warning has been issued for Waterford as Met Eireann has issued a status yellow snow-ice warning coming into effect this morning. The warning comes as further "wintry showers" are expected to touch ground in Waterford and are expected to bring further accumulation of snow. The national forecaster cautioned that the weather may cause hazardous travelling conditions, poor visibility and travel disruptions. The warning comes into effect at 12pm today, Monday, January 6, and will run until 12pm on Tuesday, January 7. This is the latest warning as Met Eireann also issued a status yellow caution due to low temperatures and the likely presence of ice in Waterford for much of the week. Further weather warnings have been issued by Met Eireann. The warning cautions that widespread frost, ice and lying snow are likely this week until Friday, January 10, at 10am. Temperatures this week, the national forecaster has warned, will be "struggling to get above freezing during the day". The weather is likely to cause hazardous travelling conditions on roads and underfoot as well as disruption to travel. MUSIC Tinashe Forum Melbourne, January 7 With its memorable request is somebody gonna match my freak? Tinashes single Nasty was one of 2024s most viral songs. The American singer also jumped on board the tail end of Charli XCXs inescapable Brat summer, appearing on the remix of B2b just two girls in the club together. Tinashe performs at Forum Melbourne on January 7, 2025. Credit: Richard Clifford But Tinashe has been around for much longer than these recent successes, having released her debut album in 2014. Shes honed a unique blend of pop, trap and R&B since. Her most recent album, 2024s Quantum Baby, was her first as an independent artist these days, its all on her terms. Take, for instance, the fact that Nasty plays not once, not twice, but thrice at her sold-out Forum show as the intro to the whole shebang, then as backing music for her four dancers while shes absent, then immediately after that as the grand finale. Clearly Tinashe is not bothered about norms if she wants it three times, then three times it is. Colin Firth, who has been lauded with awards as one of the worlds best leading men for two decades, concedes hes never quite felt so much out of his depth and affected by the challenge of his latest role. The 64-year-old Brit, who starred in the BBCs 1990s adaptation of Pride and Prejudice and blockbuster movies The Kings Speech, Bridget Jones and Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy, still remembers hearing the late-night news about the bombing of Pan Am flight 103. Colin Firth as Dr Jim Swire, whose 23-year-old daughter died in the Pan Am crash. Credit: NBC Universal / Carnival Until September 11, 2001, the tragedy, which has become universally known as the Lockerbie bombing, was the largest terrorist attack on US civilians in history. Four days before Christmas 1988, all 259 passengers and crew on the plane from Frankfurt to Detroit with stopovers in London and New York died. Of the victims, 190 were Americans and 43 were British. As a result of the terrorist attack, 11 people also lost their lives when the Boeing 747 exploded 31,000 feet in the air and parts landed on homes in the Scottish town of Lockerbie. The crime scene extended across more than 2000 square kilometres. The bombing, allegedly carried out on behalf of the Muammar Gaddafi regime, killed citizens from 21 countries. I have two particularly reliable anxiety dreams. The first and slightly tamer of the two sees me at a party having the time of my life only to remember that I am 40, and I have left my children someplace else. The dream me tries desperately to sober up and find the party exit but when I do, it is revealed that I need to sit a uni exam on the way to the kids. The second dream, and the more traumatic of the two, sees me return to the fancy department store where I worked one Christmas where I try, and fail, to gift-wrap at lightening speed while a hundred or so irate customers watch. What if we let Christmas do Christmas for a little longer? Credit: Getty Images This second dream hits especially hard during the Christmas period. Within seconds of closing my eyes I find myself back at the unnamed haunt (hint: not Myer) where I wrapped $200 onesies and had my fingers admired by a posh dude in boat shoes who really wanted me to take piano lessons. The final chapter of this particular hell was always December 24, when the many Christmas trees on display would be taken down ahead of the Boxing Day sales. There was no adjustment period, no moment which was actually Christmas, just the multitude of lit-up trees and then abruptly, their absence. This aggressive seasonal transition has stayed with me well into adulthood and the timeliness of Christmas tree removal has become its own study. For what its worth, Im inclined to think that keeping the tree on display until late January is the best way to really honour the season. Any time before that is simply too early and asks too much of us all. Depending on the level of earliness it might even be sociopathic. TEHRAN, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei on Monday condemned recent remarks by a White House official about the possibility of the United States hitting Iranian nuclear facilities, calling them "a threat against international peace and security." He made the remarks at a weekly press conference in Tehran while reacting to a report published by Axios on Thursday, which revealed that U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan had presented U.S. President Joe Biden with options for a potential U.S. attack on Iran's nuclear facilities, should the Iranians move towards a nuclear weapon before Jan. 20, 2025. Baghaei said Sullivan's remarks were threats against another country's "peaceful" nuclear facilities. He said that Iran and its people would act decisively and use all available tools to defend their national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and dignity. Iran maintains that its nuclear activities are peaceful and mainly aimed at power generation and the production of radiopharmaceuticals. The country signed a nuclear deal with world powers in July 2015, agreeing to put some curbs on its nuclear program in return for the removal of sanctions on the country. The United States, however, pulled out of the deal in May 2018 and reimposed its unilateral sanctions on Tehran, prompting the latter to drop some of its nuclear commitments under the deal. The talks on the revival of the deal began in April 2021 in Vienna, Austria. Despite several rounds of talks, no significant breakthrough has been achieved since the end of the last round in August 2022. 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 When the first email from a stranger in Australia landed in an international businessmans inbox, he thought nothing of it, dismissing it as just more spam. Hi, the message said. Are you running a scam or is this a legitimate business? Gareth, who runs a marketing agency in London and did not wish to use his full name, was quick to delete the email. But in the weeks and months that followed, he received a flurry of similar messages on email, Facebook and LinkedIn all from Australians or New Zealanders reporting scams or near misses. It turned out that fraudsters had stolen the name of Gareths digital marketing business and its distinctive branding. They were using it in an employment scam, offering people bogus jobs via instant messaging service WhatsApp. Businessman Gareth, who did not wish to use his last name, has been frustrated by scammers impersonating his marketing business on WhatsApp. The scammers then fleeced victims by convincing them to hand over money in deposits, stringing people along by saying doing so would unlock the payments for their work. Advertisement Thousands of Australians have been stung by such employment scams, costing them a combined $37 million from January 2023 to November last year, official figures show. Its a strange one. Im not too sure why I was picked, or how I got picked, or how I got found, Gareth said from Dubai. Everythings legit that theyve copied. Theyve just changed a telephone number and a website. So, to the untrained eye, its very hard to spot that. What is scary is that they could do this to any business. Its another example of how scammers exploit the worlds biggest social media platforms, including Metas WhatsApp and Facebook, to connect with potential victims, and of the weaknesses in big techs efforts to tackle fraud. Australian Competition and Consumer Commission deputy chair Catriona Lowe. Credit: Natalie Boog Australian Competition and Consumer Commission deputy chair Catriona Lowe said employment scams sometimes run out of large compounds overseas targeted those who could least afford it. Scammers may initially contact their victims via WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram or LinkedIn, and offer a work-from-home job that pays well with low effort, according to the National Anti-Scam Centre. Advertisement Lowe said most of these scams involved people being promised money to complete tasks, but once the target was close to being paid, an issue would arise. An obstacle might be introduced, she said. So they might need to level up or unlock certain features of the program that theyre using to do the work, and thats really the point at which the money changes hands, and commonly through crypto payments and things of that kind. Alastair MacGibbon, Australias former e-safety commissioner, said while WhatsApp couldnt monitor encrypted messages between individuals, the companies running messaging services should be able to recognise other signs of fraudulent behaviour. Now the chief strategy officer at cybersecurity firm CyberCX, MacGibbon said messaging services were failing on that front. Alastair MacGibbon, one of Australias leading cybersecurity experts and the chief strategy officer of CyberCX. While they cant stop usually victim zero or victim one, they can certainly stop subsequent victims by noticing a pattern of activity and then taking action by blocking accounts, removing messages, etcetera, and they largely choose not to, MacGibbon said. Advertisement I am broken and broke Gareth said he had been contacted by about two dozen Australians since September, including 10 who had lost money to the criminals after being duped into believing they were doing work for his company. Among them is Jane, a former television production worker from Sydney who did not wish to use her real name. She said she had $50,000 stolen from her after she was contacted by a scammer on WhatsApp and offered work as a contractor. Months worth of WhatsApp correspondence, spanning 128 pages, shows how Jane desperately tried to claw back deposits she had made with the fake work platform, only for the goalposts to keep shifting, requiring her to hand over more and more money. She told the scammer she was at risk of being evicted from her home, that she had been forced to go to a food bank so she could eat, that she was suicidal and broken and broke. In response, the scammer ignored or berated her, asked if she was stupid, and told her she just needed to try harder to find the money. Advertisement Ive tried to help you by putting myself in your shoes, but what I see is that you dont want to solve this problem. Youve been telling me from the start that you have no money, rather than saying youre trying to find a way to get it done, the scammer wrote. Jane replied: I have exhausted all my avenues. I dont even have gold [jewellery] to sell! The scammer responded: You know this isnt my problem. Jane said the initial message on WhatsApp, on September 23, had caught her at a vulnerable time. She had been made redundant from her job in August, and despite a varied career in television production and retail sales, she was finding it challenging to get new work. I thought, Well, Ill just look for a little online job. Im 66 years of age. I dont have a lot of superannuation. Ive hardly got any super now, she said. Advertisement One-and-a-half hours after taking off from Sydney Airport, an argument erupted on Malaysia Airlines flight MH122 that quickly escalated into a mid-air emergency. Muhammad Arif was wearing his backpack on his chest when he stood up in the aisle and began clashing with his fellow travellers. Malaysia Airlines flight MH122 sits on the runway at Sydney Airport; and (inset) Muhammad Arif, who made a bomb threat. Credit: Nine News, Supplied Court documents obtained exclusively by this masthead after Arif was sentenced last month reveal what happened onboard the Airbus A330 on the afternoon of August 14, 2023. The plane was carrying 199 people including Arif, who was seated in 21G on a one-way ticket to Pakistan via Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and Oman. A number of passengers witnessed the offender use the word bomb, according to the agreed facts. An international flight out of Melbourne Airport was forced to abort take-off at the last second, sparking an emergency response on the runway. Etihad Airways flight EY461 to Abu Dhabi started to roll down the Tullamarine airport runway shortly before 7pm on Sunday, but had to slam on the brakes. Fire trucks soon responded and doused the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners landing gear, a video posted on social media shows. A passenger on the plane reported two tyres had burst, but Etihad Airways later clarified they had deflated as a result of the high-speed rejected take-off which is a normal occurrence. In a statement, Melbourne Airport said the Aviation Rescue and Firefighting Service deployed firefighting foam as a precaution. West Coast Eagles player Reuben Ginbey has been arrested and charged by police after he was allegedly caught urinating in public at a music festival at the weekend. A club statement released on Monday said Ginbey, 20, also allegedly failed to comply with WA Police directions by not giving his personal details. Reuben Ginbey in Perth last year. Credit: Getty Images The statement said Ginbey would face court later this month and therefore the club would make no further comment at this time. It is believed Ginbey was at Perths Wildlands Festival in the northern suburb of Joondalup when the incident occurred. Maimon spoke to the National Press Club after the October 7 attacks, but he has maintained a low public profile, granting only occasional interviews and preferring to engage directly through meetings with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Foreign Minister Penny Wong and other senior government figures. However, with a year remaining of his posting in Canberra, Maimon knows he must do more to tell Israels side of the story to the Australian public and stop a once-close bilateral relationship from spinning out of control. Domestically, the war in Gaza has strained social cohesion, with Jewish Australians startled by a surge of antisemitic attacks, and other Australians aghast at the civilian death toll in Gaza. I feel a bit sorry and sad that the discussion about the conflict dominates the discussion, he said in an extended interview with this masthead at his Canberra residence during Hanukkah, the sacred Jewish holiday that ended on Thursday. He is on a mission to use the rest of his tenure, he said, to bring Australians to a better understanding of what Israel is all about, including its status as a modern technology pioneer. While he remains a forthright advocate for his nation, Maimon used the interview to strike a conciliatory tone, expressing disappointment but not anger at the Albanese governments shift away from Israel at the United Nations. He previously sought to play down tensions between Israel and Australia at a rare December press conference a day before Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu used a lacerating social media post to accuse the government of encouraging antisemitism with its extreme anti-Israel positions. Property prices have started falling, but the downturn so far pales in comparison to the growth over the longer term and offers only modest improvement to housing affordability. Sydneys median dwelling value has fallen 1.4 per cent over the past three months, and is now 70.4 per cent higher than a decade ago, CoreLogic figures show. Home values have risen over the long term. Credit: Luis Enrique Ascui Melbournes most-recent downturn began earlier last year, and values are now 6.4 per cent below their peak, but 49.3 per cent higher than 10 years ago. The long-term gains in Hobart and Canberra also far outstrip the more recent falls, although property values in Brisbane and Perth are still rising, albeit at a slower pace, and hit fresh peaks last month. London: Elon Musks tempestuous relationship with the UK took a turn when the tech billionaire called for populist figure Nigel Farage to be replaced as leader of the Reform party, after the British politician refused to endorse some of Musks latest online claims. The Tesla boss, poised to play a key role in US President-elect Donald Trumps second administration, had previously heaped praise on Farage, urging people to vote Reform, and calling the party the UKs only hope. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage announces that he will stand during the upcoming general election during a press conference in London. Credit: Getty Images Musk has repeatedly posted on his social media platform X about UK politics since Labour was elected in July from Sir Keir Starmers response to the summer riots to the countrys tax policy. Over the past week, Musk has posted dozens of times about a historical scandal involving sexual grooming gangs in the north of England, mainly to complain about failures in holding perpetrators to account. The tensions around the scandal contributed to race riots that took place in August, during which Musk also clashed with the British government. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to announce his resignation, but he has not made a final decision, a person familiar with Trudeaus thinking said on Sunday (Monday AEDT), a move that would trigger a race to replace him as Canadas leader. The comment came after The Globe and Mail reported that Trudeau was likely to step down as early as Monday as leader of the countrys ruling Liberal Party after nine years in office. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Credit: AP The source requested anonymity because they were not authorised to speak publicly. Trudeaus departure would leave the party without a permanent head at a time when polls show the Liberals will badly lose to the official opposition Conservatives in an election that must be held by late October. 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 This article is part of our Behind the Headlines series, where Age reporters reveal unforgettable moments in their careers. See all 13 stories . Sometimes, in this job, its easier to take a strangers hand and let them cry on your shoulder than it is to make sense of a senseless tragedy. This is something I discovered a few years ago when I covered my first mass shooting as North America correspondent for this masthead. Sadly, it would not be my last. It was a Saturday afternoon in May 2022 when news emerged that an 18-year-old gunman had opened fire at a popular supermarket in a black neighbourhood in Buffalo, New York. President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden visiting the scene of the Buffalo mass shooting in May 2022. Credit: AP Inspired by New Zealands Christchurch massacre, Payton Gendron arrived at the Tops Friendly store about 2.30pm that day armed with an AR-15 assault rifle and a sole purpose: to kill black people and livestream the attack on the internet. In a manifesto posted before his rampage, Gendron invoked the idea that white Americans were at risk of being replaced by people of colour, an ideology known as great replacement theory, regularly pushed by Fox TV host Tucker Carlson. He specifically name-checked the Christchurch murderer an Australian far-right extremist who livestreamed his racism-fuelled massacre at two New Zealand mosques in 2019 as the person who had done the most to radicalise him. Advertisement This fact alone made the Buffalo mass shooting, the 128th to take place in the US that year, particularly newsworthy for our readers. After filing an analysis and briefing my editor, I packed my travel bag and boarded a flight from Washington to upstate New York. Covering grief after a mass shooting can be challenging for reporters, who must balance the need for public information with extreme sensitivity to those affected. Each job involves the delicate task of telling the victims stories quickly and accurately, while respecting the raw emotions of families and communities that are heartbroken and shattered by the loss of innocent lives. Sometimes people are willing to talk about what they saw, who they knew, or how they felt about the fact another US mass shooting had taken place, years after the Sandy Hook massacre when many of the nations politicians promised genuine gun reform. But other times, theyre still in shock and too devastated to speak, or view you as an intruder in their anguish and who could blame them? By the time I arrived on the scene in Buffalo, the pain was palpable. Advertisement Yellow police tape cordoned off the site where 10 black people had been slain. Bouquets and candles lined the streets in honour of the victims: the father who had gone to the grocery store to buy a birthday cake for his three-year-old son; the retired police officer who worked as a security guard at the supermarket to keep his community safe; the devoted parishioner who sang in the church choir and cared for her grandkids. Loading Grieving residents of the tight-knit neighbourhood milled the streets, struggling to understand how someone could be so consumed with racial hate that he travelled hours from his hometown near the Pennsylvania border to murder strangers simply based on the colour of their skin. Among those residents was Cecilia Williams, who I found placing flowers at a makeshift memorial in honour of the victims. After introducing myself and asking if shed care to talk, Williams placed her hand in mine and broke down in tears. Nothing as tragic as this has ever happened here before, she told me, overcome with emotion. I live right down the street and I thought there was a bomb or something going off: boom, boom, boom. It was terrible. Advertisement But this was a terrorist act he planned to come here so how are you going to shut down people like that? They want a white America and its so sad that we cant all just get along. All this hate. For what? Ive spent a lot of time in my career dealing with trauma, cognisant of the fact that repeated exposure can also take an emotional toll on journalists, often in the form of burnout or secondary trauma. Scenes of devastation in Buffalo after the 2022 shooting. Credit: AP As reporters in The Ages investigative unit, my colleagues Chris Vedelago, Debbie Cuthbertson and I spent months talking to survivors of clergy sex abuse to expose a network of paedophile rings in the Catholic Church: priests and religious brothers who colluded with each other to abuse young boys. Sometimes, theyd even share their victims. By the end of the project, which involved trawling through thousands of graphic documents detailing heinous acts committed against innocent children, I found myself struggling to sleep, having occasional nightmares as a result of what I was reading, hearing and feeling on an almost daily basis. The same types of night terrors occurred after I left Buffalo, the devastation of victims families plus the awful livestream of Paytons rampage which he filmed through a camera-mounted helmet and streamed briefly to Twitch playing in my mind. This was compounded less than two weeks later when an even deadlier shooting took place in Texas, in which another 18-year-old gunman armed with an AR-15 rifle killed 19 students and two teachers at the Robb Elementary School in the small, Hispanic town of Uvalde. Advertisement The shocking attack was the worst in the states history, and I still often think about the parents who had to identify the bodies of their dead children, or survivors such as 11-year-old Miah Cerrillo, who covered herself with her dead friends blood and lay still to evade the shooter. Three days after that shocking event, I found myself covering a National Rifle Association conference with Donald Trump as the guest speaker, in which the former president once again vowed to protect the Second Amendment right to bear arms. Dora Mendoza, grandmother of victim Amerie Jo Garza, wipes her tears at a memorial site for victims of the Robb Elementary School shooting at Uvalde, Texas. Credit: AP But thats the thing about mass shootings: they are a uniquely American problem, with a uniquely American lack of solutions. As an Australian living in such a gun-embracing country, this is something I will never understand. Dozens of countries around the world have imposed gun restrictions to save lives, including ours, which initiated a gun buyback scheme after the 1996 Port Arthur massacre and now has a strict licensing and registration system to own a firearm. The US, by comparison, is the only country where guns outnumber its citizens, with the latest figures suggesting there are 394 million firearms in America about 120 guns per 100 people. The NRA held its annual convention in Houston, Texas days after the Uvalde massacre. Credit: Bloomberg Advertisement JERUSALEM, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Monday that he had approved "offensive and defensive" measures in the Israeli-occupied West Bank following a deadly shooting attack. In a statement released by his office, Netanyahu did not specify the details of the measures but said they included operations to apprehend the perpetrators and "a series of additional offensive and defensive actions." He noted that the decision followed "a situation assessment" with senior security officials. The attack, which took place near al-Funduq, a Palestinian village in the northeastern West Bank, involved gunmen opening fire from a vehicle on an Israeli bus and a private vehicle. Three Israelis -- two women in their 70s and a policeman -- were killed, and seven others were injured, according to Magen David Adom rescue service. The suspects fled the scene, prompting an ongoing manhunt, the Israeli military said in a statement. Israeli military troops and Shin Bet agents have been deployed in the area, preparing for potential revenge attacks by settlers and working to prevent settlers from reaching sensitive locations, Israel's Ha'aretz newspaper reported. In recent months, attacks by settler activists on Palestinian villages have increased, including incidents of arson and, in some cases, killings. The shooting occurred amid escalating tensions in the occupied Palestinian territories, which Israel seized in the 1967 war, and as negotiators were meeting in Doha, Qatar, for renewed efforts to secure a ceasefire agreement in Gaza. Festivals Rajasthan Festivals Bikaner festival Bikaner festival Month: January Significance: Dedicated to Camel Date: 10.1.2025 - 12.1.2025 Bikaner festival is dedicated to the indispensable 'ship of the desert', camel. The desert town of Bikaner is located in the Northern part of Rajasthan. This festival starts off with a magnificent procession of bedecked camels against the red sandstone backdrop of the Junagarh Fort (1588-1593) in the town. It is a colourful spectacle of beautifully decorated camels that fascinates the onlookers with their charm and grace. The festivity advances to the open sand-spreads of the Polo Grounds, followed by camel races, camel milking, fur cutting design, the best breed competition, camel acrobatics, camel bands and so on. The camels display amazing foot-work, dancing gracefully to the slightest direction of their riders. There displays and competitions accompany the colour, music and rhythm unique to a fair in Rajasthan. The jubilant skirt swirling dancers, the awe-inspiring fire dance and the dazzling fireworks light up the fortified Desert City. The festivities reach to the peak with a different tenor as the renowned artists display a medley of folk dances and songs. The dates of the festival differ every year. There is a unique camel breeding farm just outside the town. The other sightseeing places are the Junagarh Fort and Karni Matha Temple where thousands of holy rats are worshipped. How to get there Air : The nearest airport is Jodhpur (256km). From Jodhpur daily flights to Delhi and Mumbai. Rail : Rail network connects Bikaner with Delhi (470kms), Kolkata, Jodhpur (243kms), Jaipur (321kms) and Allahabad. The "Palace on Wheels" luxury train also covers Bikaner. Express Train the Jaipur-Bikaner Express (Departure 8:30 PM)rs to reach Jaipur. The Intercity Express departs at 5 AM & reaches Jaipur at 11:55 PM. The Ranakpur Express leaves for Jodhpur at 9:35 AM, it takes about 5 1/2 hours. The Sarai Rohilla Express leaves at 7:45 PM & reaches Delhi at 6:40 AM. A good rail network with cities connects Bikaner like Delhi, Kolkata, Jaipur and Allahabad. The bus stand is north of the city centre. There are several Rajasthan State Transport Corporation buses between Bikaner and Jaisalmer, Jaipur, Udaipur , Ajmer and Delhi. Leesville, LA (71446) Today Mostly clear this evening then becoming cloudy after midnight. Low 61F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Mostly clear this evening then becoming cloudy after midnight. Low 61F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. BEIRUT, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati on Monday demanded that Israel halt its violations of the ceasefire agreement as Israeli forces continued their withdrawal from southern Lebanon. Mikati reiterated "the demand to stop the Israeli security violations of the ceasefire, the ongoing attacks on southern towns, the systematic destruction of homes and facilities, and the violation of Lebanese airspace" during a meeting with visiting U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein. He also called for "setting a clear timetable to complete the Israeli withdrawal before the end of the 60 days" stipulated by the agreement. Hochstein, speaking after meetings with Mikati and Lebanese House Speaker Nabih Berri, said that the Israeli withdrawal would continue until all Israeli forces had left Lebanese territory. "The Israel Defense Forces started today their withdrawal from Naqoura, most of the western sector, and back into Israel south of the blue line. These withdrawals will continue until all the Israeli forces are out of Lebanon completely and as the Lebanese army continues to deploy into the south and to the Blue Line," Hochstein said in a televised statement. Hochstein said the committee overseeing the ceasefire would continue working over the next 20 days on the Israeli withdrawal and the deployment of the Lebanese army, in cooperation with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon. "I expect to see much progress being made in the coming days," Hochstein said, adding, "Implementation is not perceived as quickly as some wanted. But what I heard in Naqoura today gives me hope that we are on the right track." A ceasefire brokered by the United States and France took effect on Nov. 27, 2024, seeking to end nearly 14 months of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Under the agreement, Israel is to withdraw from Lebanese territory within 60 days, with the Lebanese army deploying along the Lebanese-Israeli border and in southern Lebanon to assume security responsibilities and prevent the presence of weapons and militants. Castlebar has fallen a number of places in the latest Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) rankings. The county tows is ranked joint 14th nationwide, down from sixth spot in mid-2024. Top-ranking sites in Castlebar included the approach routes, Main Street car park and Main Street. Inspectors noted that Main Street has been attractively presented and maintained with lovely paving / tree planting etc. By far the most heavily littered site surveyed was a laneway off Cavendish Lane. It presents very poorly with overflowing industrial wheely bins / wooden pallet and large piece of plastic wrapping, stated An Taisce inspectors. A fall in plastic bottles and cans on our streets, brought about by the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), was not enough to reduce overall litter levels in Ireland last year, the IBAL report found. The latest survey of 40 towns and cities shows Naas was the cleanest town in the rankings, with Dublin North Inner City bottom of the pile. In all, 60% of the towns and cities surveyed, including Castlebar were deemed clean. Galway replaced Waterford as the cleanest city, but city areas occupied all but one of the bottom 10 places in the IBAL league table, despite some improvement in Limerick and Mahon in Cork. Littered Ballybane in Galway and Dublin City Centre deteriorated year-on-year, while Dublin North Inner City was the only area to be branded seriously littered. On a positive note, 2024 saw a further fall in the number of sites within cities and towns that were deemed litter blackspots.' An unexpected visitor put a Mayo village on the map as a bird-watchers hotspot in 2024. Last May, Belcarra woman Lorraine Ryan-Jennings spotted an unusual creature high above the local river that was soon identified as a yellow-crowned night heron a bird almost exclusively found in North America. The word spread online and soon the ornithology community around Ireland, the UK and Europe were hastily booking plane and ferry tickets over to get a glimpse of this remarkable visitor to the village on the outskirts of Castlebar. While the heron, named Lorrie in honour of its local discoverer, has seemingly left the area, it had a big impact on the small village which it called home for several months. The rare North American heron pictured in Belcarra. Picture: Ger Nee Chairperson of the Belcarra Community Council Fionnan Nestor told the Western People more about this impact. It brought in a ton of visitors which was fantastic for local businesses. The place was buzzing for months with new faces and that really helps the local economy, he said. On top of that, the heron sparked a renewed interest in our own native birdlife. Weve run a few guided dawn walks over the last six months which have had 20-30 people on them and considering they depart at 6am thats really impressive. The unusual incident brought newfound attention to the village and visitors flocked from all over. We got some amazing feedback from people who visited Belcarra for the first time, many of them mentioned how friendly everyone is here, said Fionnan. They also couldn't stop talking about how beautiful our village is. A lot of visitors called it a hidden gem, saying they were so glad they discovered it. Some even joked that the heron was lucky to end up in such a lovely place! There are some plans in place to commemorate the herons stay in Belcarra. Already a commemorative poster featuring the bird sold out rapidly and the bird also took pride of place in the villages 2025 calendar, which has also flown off the shelves. Looking ahead, we're considering creating a commemorative piece in the village in 2025, like a sculpture or a mural, to celebrate the heron's visit. It's still in the planning stages, but we're really excited about it, said Fionnan. He said they would love to see the bird make a return to the village someday, but for now, everyone in Belcarra is wishing their former feathered neighbour well. We certainly hope the heron might come back to visit us again but more importantly, we just hope it has found a safe and quiet place to live out its life, said Fionnan. There's a feeling among the locals that the bird isn't too far away and might be residing on one of the nearby lakes that aren't easily accessed on foot. Maybe that's for the best, giving it the peace and tranquillity it needs. Reading, PA (19601) Today Any morning clouds give way to partly sunny skies; a milder afternoon with highs back above the 60-degree mark. . Tonight Becoming cloudy overnight with some patchy fog and drizzle possible late at night. SANAA, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Yemen's Houthi group said in a statement on Monday that it targeted the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier in the northern Red Sea with two winged missiles and four drones, as well as sites in Israel. The group "carried out a qualitative military operation... while the American enemy was preparing to launch a major air attack on Yemen," which had "failed" thanks to its operation, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea said in the statement aired by the Houthi-run al-Masirah TV. According to Sarea, Houthis also carried out two attacks in the afternoon and another in the evening on Israeli sites, targeting with drones two military targets in Israel's Tel Aviv city, and a "vital target" in Israel's Ashkelon city. "We will continue our operations in support of the Palestinian resistance, and these operations will not stop until the aggression on Gaza stops and the siege is lifted," he added. Neither the U.S. army nor the Israel Defense Forces have yet to comment on the Houthi claims. The Houthi statement came simultaneously with the arrival of UN Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg in the Houthi-held capital Sanaa, which marks his first visit in more than a year and a half as part of efforts to push forward the stalled peace process. The Houthi group, which controls much of northern Yemen, has been launching regular rocket and drone attacks against Israel and disrupting "Israeli-linked" shipping in the Red Sea since November 2023, to show solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza amid their ongoing conflict with Israelis. In response, the U.S.-led naval coalition stationed in the area has regularly conducted air raids and strikes against Houthi targets to deter the group, prompting the Houthis to expand attacks to include U.S. warships. by Xinhua Writer Tan Jingjing LAS VEGAS, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- The 2025 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) will showcase how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is improving productivity, enhancing customer experiences, and driving medical breakthroughs, Gary Shapiro, CEO and vice chair of the U.S. Consumer Technology Association (CTA), organizer of CES, told Xinhua. CES 2025, the world's premier tech show, will be held in the U.S. city of Las Vegas from Jan. 7 to 10. Exhibitors from more than 160 countries and regions have registered to attend the event. AI, Digital Health and Wellness, Enterprise, as well as Transportation and Mobility are among the most important trends to watch at CES 2025, Shapiro told Xinhua. "You'll see new applications of AI across the show floor, driving everything from AI-powered chips to AI-enabled drug discovery to smart factory solutions," Shapiro said. "CES 2025 will showcase how AI is improving productivity, enhancing customer experiences, and driving medical breakthroughs. We're also excited to partner with Quantum World Congress on conference programming focused on quantum's capacity to enhance security, sensing and powerful computing," he noted. The annual show will also present technologies like wearables, telemedicine, and AI-driven health solutions that aim to improve patient outcomes, enhance wellness, and lower healthcare costs, according to Shapiro. New innovations in AI, 5G, and data analytics at CES are driving progress in areas including SaaS (Software as a service), financial technology, special computing and cybersecurity, Shapiro noted. "At CES 2025, you'll also see an increased focus on the data centers and infrastructure powering the AI revolution," Shapiro told Xinhua. CES 2024 has drawn over 138,000 attendees and over 4,300 exhibitors worldwide. Shapiro said that international exhibitor participation for CES 2025 is strong across global markets. "On the attendee side, CES 2024 had over 40 percent of attendees come from outside the U.S. and we are tracking at similar levels for CES 2025," he noted. Chinese companies have been important forces at CES in recent years, impressing global exhibitors with innovative products and solutions. Chinese exhibitors at CES 2025 include many CES Innovation Awards Honorees, in categories like AI, computer hardware and peripherals, digital health, mobile devices and accessories, smart home, sustainability and energy/power, robotics, XR, and -- one of the new categories for CES 2025 -- pet tech, Shapiro told Xinhua. Some Chinese exhibitors were reported by media as being denied U.S. visas despite holding invitations to attend CES 2025. "We are aware of CES attendees and exhibitors from China who are getting their visa applications denied and are working with them to better understand the situation and help if we can," Shapiro told Xinhua. "While we do not have any influence over the visa process, CTA encourages the U.S. government to expedite and approve visas for individuals who are traveling to the U.S. for legitimate business reasons," Shapiro noted. Members of the Great Wall Youth Orchestra play traditional Chinese instruments at the New Year concert in Shijiazhuang, north China's Hebei Province, Dec. 29, 2024. [Photo by Wang Zijie/Xinhua] SHIJIAZHUANG, Jan. 3 (Xinhua) At a recent concert held in north China's Hebei Province to usher in the New Year, the romantic Chinese folk song "Purple Bamboo" was revived by a U.S. youth orchestra. Playing traditional Chinese instruments such as the erhu and the guzheng, the Great Wall Youth Orchestra from Oakland tugged on the heartstrings of its audience with the soft and graceful melody of the song, which dates back thousands of years. "This is the orchestra's first international tour. We're very excited and grateful for that," said Sairina Kimberly Merino Tsui, president of the board of the Purple Silk Music Education Foundation, with which the orchestra is affiliated. Upon the invitation of Shijiazhuang University, members of the orchestra, together with U.S. artists from San Francisco, formed a delegation of 51 people and made a six-day visit to China which ended on Tuesday. These performances, along with their performances in the United States, are part of the orchestra's decades-long efforts to preserve and promote traditional Chinese music. Founded in 1995, the orchestra is a program initiated by the Purple Silk Music Education Foundation. It aims to teach Chinese music to children in the San Francisco Bay Area, a place with an ethnically diverse population. "A lot of our members are ethnically Chinese, and there are quite a few of them who have never been to China before, but have played instruments for many, many years," Tsui told Xinhua in an interview. "We hope to give them a chance to get to know about their roots in a different way." "Music is a way to connect with our ancestors, our families and our culture," said Brian Chow, a Chinese American who plays the erhu. Having joined the orchestra more than 10 years ago, Chow has grown from a diligent student into a professional music teacher eager to pass traditional Chinese culture on to younger generations. Over almost 30 years, the Great Wall Youth Orchestra has nurtured about 18,000 students in the United States through its weekend music classes and teaching programs in local schools. Currently, there are approximately 300 student members regularly learning and practicing traditional Chinese instruments. According to Chow, in February, a U.S. school he is working with will introduce new traditional Chinese instrument courses to students in grades four and five in collaboration with the orchestra. "It is expensive to study music in the United States. My mother wanted to create opportunities for children from less affluent families to learn music," said Victor Stanson Siu, who now heads and conducts the orchestra. His mother established the foundation and the orchestra. Siu noted that he enjoys his visits every time he comes to China, and seeing how Chinese people approach traditional music in new ways. "It's wonderful to learn how modern Chinese music is and how cool it is for young people to play. I hope my students can feel the music also belongs to them. It's not something ancient that only their grandparents listen to," he said. At the first New Year concert in Hebei, the Great Wall Youth Orchestra also performed the classic Italian song, "O Sole Mio," and a pop song by contemporary American musicians, using Chinese folk instruments. At another concert, typical festival songs, including "Blooming Flowers and the Full Moon" and "Spring Festival Overture," were performed by the orchestra alongside their Chinese counterparts from the School of Music at Shijiazhuang University, creating a jubilant atmosphere shared by all in attendance. Over the years, the orchestra has toured many U.S. cities, including New York and Los Angeles, Siu said, adding that its members' different cultural backgrounds make it easier for their ethnically diverse listeners to accept Chinese music and culture. Tyler Daniel Thompson is one of the orchestra's star vocalists and has been learning Chinese songs and operas with the group since the age of four. "When I try to go to my community and sing Chinese opera, people there can feel Chinese culture even though they may not fully understand the meaning of the lyrics," the 29-year-old African American said. He believes that the Great Wall Youth Orchestra is trying to help more people understand Chinese culture and integrate it into their life through music. "We can bring people together through a lot of different mediums. Music is definitely one of them," Thompson said. Members of the Great Wall Youth Orchestra prepare for the New Year concert in Shijiazhuang, north China's Hebei Province, Dec. 28, 2024. [Xinhua/Wang Meiqi] Members of the Great Wall Youth Orchestra perform at the New Year concert in Shijiazhuang, north China's Hebei Province, Dec. 28, 2024. [Photo by Wang Zijie/Xinhua] (Source: Xinhua) Editor: Wang Shasha AMMAN, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Jordan's Arab Potash Company (APC) signed on Monday an 813-million-U.S. dollar joint investment agreement with U.S. chemical manufacturing company Albemarle to boost bromine production in the country, the state-run Petra news agency reported. The five-year, four-phase project, to start this month, aims to increase the production capacity of bromine and specialized derivative materials of Jordan Bromine, a joint venture between the APC and Albemarle, while providing necessary production requirements, Petra reported. As one of the largest U.S. investments in Jordan's mining sector to date, it will create 650 permanent jobs and hundreds of temporary positions during construction, Petra reported. According to Petra, Jordan's Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan, U.S. Ambassador to Jordan Yael Lempert, some senior Jordanian officials, as well as officials from the above-mentioned three companies, attended the signing ceremony. At the ceremony, Hassan called mining "a key pillar" in Jordan's Economic Modernization Vision and noted promising investment opportunities in potash, phosphate, manufacturing industries, and green ammonia in the country, Petra reported. A student (L) of the Muscatine High School delegation takes selfies at the Palace Museum in Beijing, capital of China, April 18, 2024. [Photo by Liu Zunshuan/Xinhua] "People-to-people exchanges direct communications between Chinese people and their foreign counterparts in all walks of life form part of the foundation of President Xi's international way of thinking," Robert Lawrence Kuhn, chairman of the Kuhn Foundation, told Xinhua. BEIJING, Jan. 5 (Xinhua) "I felt extremely grateful when I received the greeting card from President Xi," said Brian Suy, an 11th grader from the Lincoln High School in the U.S. state of Washington. On Jan. 1, Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife, Peng Liyuan, replied to a New Year card from representatives of middle school teachers and students from Washington state. In their reply card, the couple expressed their hope that the youth of China and the United States will continue to participate in China's initiative of inviting 50,000 young Americans to China for exchange and study programs in a five-year span. Earlier, the U.S.-China Youth and Student Exchange Association, as well as representatives of teachers and students from Lincoln High School and Stadium High School, who have visited China through the initiative, sent a New Year card to Xi, Peng and the Chinese people. "I am willing to be a successor to keep the relations of the people of China and America strong and close," Suy told Xinhua. "I believe that the world will ultimately be a better place if future generations strengthen these connections." The school drum band performs during a farewell ceremony at Lincoln High School in Tacoma, Washington State, the United States, Jan. 30, 2024. [Xinhua/Wu Xiaoling] Bridge of Friendship After having received New Year cards twice from Xi and his wife in reply to their greetings, teachers and students from Washington state are greatly encouraged, said Zhou Shuqi, co-chair of the U.S.-China Youth and Student Exchange Association. In February 2024, Xi and Peng extended their good wishes for the Year of the Dragon in their card to Lincoln High School, inviting students to visit China more often, including through the "50,000 in five years" initiative. These cards are a token of U.S.-China friendship and a bridge that connects young people, which "motivate us to move forward," said Zhou. Over a year, about 14,000 American youths have visited China for exchanges and study. "Our experience in China was incredibly rich and rewarding," Stadium High School Principal Shannon Marshall said. "This experience has created long-lasting friendship between American students and Chinese students." "We would love to send more students in 2025 and are so thankful for the opportunities," she said. "It was a privilege to have been able to sign a greeting card for President Xi," said Lucy Arceno, a student from Lincoln High School. Recalling her China trip, she said what impressed her the most was the hospitality of the Chinese people. "I made quite a few Chinese friends," she said. "One of my Chinese friends had this to say after we got to know each other, 'gradually it dawned on me that we are of no difference.' I found this to be a very beautiful statement about friendships." "People-to-people exchanges direct communications between Chinese people and their foreign counterparts in all walks of life form part of the foundation of President Xi's international way of thinking," Robert Lawrence Kuhn, chairman of the Kuhn Foundation, told Xinhua. "President Xi puts extra emphasis on people-to-people exchanges" in the development of bilateral relations, Kuhn said. Chinese President Xi Jinping (back, 4th L) and his wife Peng Liyuan (back, 2nd L) greet teachers and students during their visit to Lincoln High School in Tacoma of Washington State, the United States, Sept. 23, 2015. [Xinhua/Liu Weibing] Friendship That Endures For Lincoln High School, warm interactions with Xi have been maintained for long. As early as in 1993, Xi visited the school as then secretary of the Fuzhou Municipal Committee of the Communist Party of China. In September 2015, he revisited the school with Peng during his first state visit to the United States as Chinese president, and encouraged students to travel to China to become more familiar with the country. During their stay, the couple enjoyed in the school's auditorium a choir performance by students from both countries. Lynn Eisenhauer, a music teacher at the school, was present. "I have had the amazing opportunity to travel throughout China three times during 2024," she told Xinhua in a recent interview. "Many of my friendships with Chinese teachers and students have begun while learning to do calligraphy together, singing side by side, or doing Tai Chi with each other." Eisenhauer was amazed that when she joined a group from Washington state to visit China last year, an opportunity came for the group to perform again before Peng during a China-U.S. youth exchange activity in Beijing, which was "a truly magical memory." "One of the ways our friendships continue to grow is through these shared experiences and the common bonds they help us to create," Eisenhauer said. "Peaceful connections and enduring friendships can make the world a better place for all of us." Maurice Chong from Washington state participated both in the choir in 2015 and the youth exchange activity in 2024. Now an exchange student at Peking University, Chong said he was inspired by Xi to study abroad back in 2015, when the Chinese president encouraged them with a Chinese adage: "Read 10,000 books and travel 10,000 miles." Xi's initiative to invite American students to China "will indeed have a big effect on people-to-people relations between the U.S. and China, and that's what we need," said Elyn MacInnis, founder of "Friends of Kuliang," a group gathering descendants of U.S. families who once lived in Kuliang, Fujian Province. Communication is a good bridge to build trust, "and trust is very important for friendship," MacInnis said. Jeffrey Greene, chairman of the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation, has a touch of the wreckage from Flying Tigers bombers displayed at an exhibition in Huimin Village in Anqing City, east China's Anhui Province, Sept. 10, 2024. [Xinhua/Guo Chen] 'Long Live Peace' The year 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. During World War II, China and the United States fought together for peace and justice, and the friendship between the two peoples stood the test of blood and fire and is growing ever stronger, Xi and Peng said in their New Year card. The couple's words were in response to the U.S. students' card to them, which paid tribute to this part of history. "'Long Live Peace; Eternal Friendship.' We wrote this wish in our card," said David Chong, founder and president of the U.S.-China Youth and Student Exchange Association. "We want to convey the significance of maintaining world peace and the longing for future peace to young people of both countries, and encourage them to inherit this precious friendship," Chong said. Among those sending the card was William Felagai, a 12th grader from Lincoln High School, who recalled hearing about the bilateral friendship from a Flying Tiger veteran. During World War II, a U.S. air squadron composed of pilots from the United States Army Air Corps, Navy, and Marine Corps helped the Chinese fight Japanese invaders. They are better known as the Flying Tigers. "He talked about how U.S. soldiers and pilots found refuge with Chinese villagers who were willing to risk not only themselves and their families' lives but their whole village from destruction by the Japanese military," Felagai said. Jeffrey Greene, chairman of the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation, said that Xi has recalled the epic of the Flying Tigers on many occasions, including in a reply letter to the foundation in 2023. The foundation has launched a Flying Tigers Friendship School and Youth Leaders Program, with the participation of dozens of Chinese and U.S. middle schools and universities. The program brought students from 11 U.S. states to visit China in 2024, and will be expanded in the new year, Greene said. "I'm very proud of the way that they've all understood the importance of what happened between China and the United States 80 years ago," he said. "What they learn is that there's tremendous opportunity for cooperation between the Chinese people and the American people in the future." (Source: Xinhua) Editor: Wang Shasha Weather Alert ...WIND ADVISORY NOW IN EFFECT FROM 1 PM FRIDAY TO 4 AM CDT SATURDAY... * WHAT...South winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts 45 to 50 mph expected. * WHERE...Portions of southern Illinois, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri. * WHEN...From 1 PM Friday to 4 AM CDT Saturday. * IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The strong winds may combine with loose soils and result in reduced visibilities at times. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution. && SEOUL, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) successfully test-fired a new-type intermediate-range ballistic missile on Monday, with its top leader overseeing the event, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said Tuesday. After the missile was fired northeastward from a launching ground in a suburban area of Pyongyang, the hypersonic glide vehicle mounted on the missile reached its first peak at the height of 99.8 kilometers and the second peak at the height of 42.5 kilometers respectively while making a 1,500-km-long flight as scheduled at the speed amounting to 12 times of the speed of sound. It finally landed on the target waters in the open sea, according to the KCNA report. The KCNA report stressed that a new compound of carbon fiber was used in the manufacture of the engine body of the missile and a new comprehensive and effective method based on the already-accumulated technologies was introduced in its flight and guidance control system. Noting the Monday test confirmed the effectiveness of the weapon system, Kim Jong Un, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the DPRK, called the development of the new intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile a "linchpin" of the country's strategic deterrence. "The hypersonic missile system will reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region that can affect the security of our state," the DPRK leader was quoted by the KCNA as saying. The Postal Workers Rank-and-File Committee (PWRFC)s next online meeting is taking place today (Sunday, January 5) at 7p.m. Register here to discuss the takeover and its implications and a strategy to fight it. A World Socialist Web Site reporting team campaigned on Friday at the Mount Pleasant mail centre in London for the online meeting on Sunday of the Postal Workers Rank-and-File Committee, For a rank-and-file fightback against Kretinsky takeover and defence of the mail service. The WSWS article The CWU framework agreement backs Kretinskys Royal Mail takeover was distributed as a leaflet, taken by scores of workers who stopped to speak and give their opinions. Hundreds of leaflets were also distributed at delivery offices in Manchester, Leeds, Keighley, Sheffield, Rotherham, Leicester, Winton and Bournemouth. At Mount Pleasant, the articles assessment of the Communication Workers Union (CWU)s corporatist pact with billionaire Daniel Kretinskyrubber-stamped by the Labour governmentprompted a wide discussion. Workers speak to WSWS campaign team at the Mount Pleasant mail centre in London. Automation and job losses Royal Mail has been installing more automated machines for sorting parcels and letters in mail centres across the country to augment the role of its two Superhubs in Warrington and Daventry, in a bid to slash more jobswhat the company and union call headcount reduction. This process is set to intensify under the ownership of Kretinsky and his private equity firm EP Group. A worker raised this, referring to the experience of Amazon workers. Pointing to a news story on his phone he said, Look at that AI (Artificial Intelligence)! Three robots have wiped out 350 jobs at Amazon. This is the future at Royal Mail. I live in London and everything I earn goes to paying the rent. Kretinsky takeover, asset stripping and pension theft Many workers expressed outrage over the open embrace of the takeover by CWU general secretary Dave Ward, and particularly the unions gaslighting that it would be anything other than a brutal restructuring to gouge out more profits for the super-rich private equity investors. One worker pointed to the CWUs decade-long collaboration with the privatisation of Royal Mail, warning that the Kretinsky takeover would take the plundering of profits even further: The union already collaborated with part privatisation twelve years ago. Kretinskyits Thatcherism. Hell asset strip the company. Why is the union telling us otherwise? A postal worker discussing the leaflet with the campaign team said, What youve written on pensions, Ive been saying the same thing to my colleagues. If these people take over, theyre going to nick our pensions. The agreement allows Kretinsky to help himself to half of the 1 billion pension surplus, as long as it is invested in the Royal Mail side of the business of parent company International Distribution Services. Another worker added, Why have they sold Royal Mail so cheap? They are going to sell off all the land. Weve been discussing this in the depot: why so cheap? Labour is in on it too. Starmer isnt a Labour manhes a multi-millionaire, worse than the Tories. I was just saying to my colleagues in there maybe we should we give Reform and Farage a chance? The team explained that Nigel Farage, leader of the right-wing Reform UK party, is a City banker turned political demagogue. He has a vested interest in deflecting social anger over inequality into scapegoating immigrants and whipping up national divisions. After the discussion the worker said he would read the WSWS and consider this position. Royal Mail is turning workers into factory fodder squeezed for profits, with one worker asking, What can we do? Its all about dividends and share owners? EP Group will have the biggest bonanza they have ever had with all the assets they can sell. Its the nature of capitalism. If they dont get their dividends, they then put more pressure on us workers. Nothing is like it was. You could approach management, now you cant. I agree with you but how do we beat this, how do we get over this? We need to be in a position where we can strike and everything stops, like on the underground or the railway. This raises the lessons of trade union bureaucracys betrayal of the 2022-23 strike wave against the Conservative government, in which millions of workers came forward to fight decades of real-terms pay cuts and demands for further restructuring on behalf of corporate profits. The strikes on the railways and at Royal Mail were in the forefront of this action, but the CWU under Dave Ward and the Rail, Maritime and Transport union, led by Mick Lynch, kept these on the leash of selective stoppagesto wear down workers, not to bring the employers and government to their knees. Workers who voted emphatically for industrial action had no say in deciding the action they would take, and no oversight over negotiations, which ended in sellout deals cooked up behind closed doors. The strikes were called off to make way for a Labour government backed by big business to continue the attacks on the working class that could no longer be entrusted to the Tories. The union leaders partnership with the right-wing Labour government and big business is clear in Kretinskys takeover at Royal Mail. Any worker seeking to change the union and make it more accountable by taking a post as a local rep is being disabused of this notion. A long-serving postal worker explained to the campaign team that when he spoke up for workers, trying to represent members demands, he was told to shut up and stop raising these issues by other CWU officials. The essential role of the union apparatus is to police opposition to the gig economy conditions it has enabled in partnership with Royal Mail management A worker explained: Its just intimidation. We are being targeted with supernumerary randomly. They make your life a nightmare: as a supernumerary youre here, there and everywheredoing up to three times the work. Its a nightmare working here. Im against Kretinsky; its asset stripping and privatisation. Give him time and hell start selling Royal Mail property. Im concerned the union supports this. Ill read your leaflet and if I agree Ill be in touch. Another senior postie of many decades had spent a number of years on supernumerary, where workers have to accept total flexibility in their shift patterns without a fixed duty. He said,Kretinsky is privatisation plain and simple. Ward is talking nonsense. They want to gut everything weve ever had. Id like to leave, but the wages are so low everywhere. Im with you on this. Thanks for opposing it. Im interested in your meeting. The Postal Workers Rank-and-File Committee (PWRFC)s next online meeting is taking place today (Sunday 5 January) at 7p.m. Register here to discuss the takeover and its implications and a strategy to fight it. Sixth form college teachers at 32 colleges are set to hold three more days of strike action from January 7-9 in the ongoing fight for a pay increase. In early November, 32 of the 40 non-academised sixth form colleges voted in favour of strike action with a 97 percent mandate. Sixth form colleges that have transformed into academies (state-funded but privately run) have been granted funding for a paltry 5.5 percent teacher pay rise in 2024/5 through the post-16 schools budget grant. But the remaining non-academised sixth form colleges have been given nothing at all. Lecturers represented by the National Education Union (NEU) first came out on strike on December 3 and 4 and again when the union added the first of an additional four days of strike action on December 13. Hundreds joined the picket lines in Liverpool, Birmingham, Hull, Manchester, London, Bristol and other major towns and cities. The staff collectively teach around 80,000 students. The strike by these hugely underpaid and overworked FE workers marks the first major industrial action by education workers since Labours summer general election victory. Strikers on the picket line at Hills Road sixth form college in Cambridge, November 30, 2022 On November 28, the NEU organised a rally outside the Department for Educations Sanctuary Building in London, with hundreds gathering to demonstrate. Teachers chanted, What do we want? Fair pay. When do we want it? Now! and vociferously booed mentions of Labour Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson and Skills Minister Jacqui Smith. NEU members also protested outside Chancellor Rachel Reevess Leeds constituency office. At the demonstration, teachers told FE Week journalists how they had assumed the DfE originally made an error in excluding them from the pay award. Some noted that it could be a tactic to force the remaining sixth form colleges to transform into academies. Thats something even the Tories didnt try to do, Ian Morton, accounting teacher at WQE and Regent College in Leicester said, We just expected better of a Labour government. No Labour government worthy of the name performs actions like this It must be by design and its just really sickening. According to the NEU, teachers in academised sixth form colleges have been incorrectly designated as being subject to the School Teachers Pay and Review Body and thereby delineated from their non-academised colleagues. Sixth form college teachers have their own long-standing bargaining arrangements for pay with college employers represented by the Sixth Form Colleges Association (SFCA)which the government decision to differentiate between academy and non-academy colleges has undermined. The SFCA is seeking a judicial review of the governments September 2024 pay review decision. In a statement, the nominally independent SFCA asserted, The government could avoid the disruption to young peoples education that will be caused by this strike action by revisiting its decision to fund a pay award for staff in schools but not colleges. NEU general secretary Daniel Kebede told BBC Radio 4 that teachers are going into Christmas not having had any pay award and we are trying to rectify that situation. Kebede said it would cost an additional 15m in funding, small beer in funding terms, to rectify. He added that the additional strike action called should have been a wake up call to DfE ministers and that the NEU will not back down on this issue. Regardless of Kebedes claims, backing down is what the NEU leadership specialises in, as has been confirmed repeatedly over decades. In a recent article detailing the governments plans for thousands of civil service job losses, the WSWS called on workers to view with contempt the hand wringing by public sector trade union leaders over government cuts and paltry pay deals. The article explains, Labours announcement for huge cuts in every department completely blows apart the deception practised by the union leaders, who claimed that if their members voted Starmer into office then years of cuts could be reversed by a government that would be on their side. Sixth form college teacher pay has been cut in real terms by 29.5 percent since 2010, and college budgets shrunk simultaneously by 20 percent. Salaries of state school teachers have fallen by 20 percent over a similar period and university lecturers, the University and College Union (UCU) announced in 2021, have also lost fully one fifth of their salaries since 2009. This steep downward trajectory has only worsened since 2021. A pitiful 5.5 percent pay deal against such losses doesnt cut it, not by a long chalk. The paucity of FE teachers pay, in both sixth form colleges and FE colleges is primarily the responsibility of the NEU and UCU. For decades the education unions have refused to organise a co-ordinated fight to stem the steep decline in their members wages and terms and conditions of work. This was confirmed in spades when NEU and UCU members, along with millions of other workers, fought for pay rises to end years of pay cuts during the 2022-23 strike wave, but were sold out by the unions leaderships. In the current dispute, no attempt is being made by the UCU and NEU bureaucracies to unify any struggles across FE. But unity by workers in pursuit of their interests is what is required if they are to prevent their incomes sinking further. Under the Starmer-led Labour government, the employers are escalating attacks against education workers, in conjunction with the trade union bureaucracy In November the Times Higher Education warned that 10,000 university jobs are threatened, with over 140 universities making redundancies in 2025. Dr. Liesbeth Corens, a senior lecturer in early modern history, has tallied records showing at least 77 universities have announced cuts. Corens describes what jobs and courses across the sector face as all-round slaughter. The Universities and Colleges Employers Association (UCEA) have offered between 2.7 and 5.2 percent to HE lecturersnext to nothing when compared to real-terms wage loss in recent years. The potential to unify the struggles of all education workerswho face the same issues of poor pay, unpaid work and casualisationhas never been greater. But for this to be realised requires that they begin to organise their own rank-and-file committees to oppose the wage restraint and funding cuts jointly imposed by the government and overseen by the trade unions. When German Green foreign minister Annalena Baerbock presented her Guidelines for a Feminist Foreign Policy in March 2023, we wrote that this project, as absurd as it is reactionary, was ultimately about enforcing geostrategic and economic interests. If necessary, this would also be done in close cooperation with the most reactionary regimes in the world. Syria's de facto leader Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, center, meets with German foreign minister, Annalena Baerbock, left, and French foreign minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, right, in Damascus, Syria, Friday, Jan. 3, 2025. [AP Photo/SANA] In this respect, Baerbocks most recent trip abroad to Syria represented a new high point. In Damascus on Friday, she met representatives of the new Islamist HTS regime and its leader Abu Mohammad al-Jolani (real name Ahmed al-Sharaa). To describe al-Jolani as reactionary would be an understatement. Jolani is the former emir of the al-Nusra Front, which was initially linked to the Islamic State and then to al-Qaeda. It was designated a terrorist organisation by the UN in 2013. In the same year, al-Jolani announced in a video message: The sons of the al-Nusra Front swear allegiance to Sheikh Ayman al-Zawahiri. Al-Zawahiri had been the leader of al-Qaeda since the 2011 assassination of Osama bin Laden by US special forces. He subsequently supported al-Jolani with fighters and weapons, which al-Nusra used for deadly terrorist attacks. In October 2013, Human Rights Watch published a report describing how the al-Nusra Front, together with other armed opposition groups, organised massacres in rural areas of the Syrian governorate of Latakia between 4 and 18 August 2013, killing at least 190 civilians and taking more than 200 hostages. At least 67 were allegedly executed in the operation near villages of the Alawite religious sect. In 2015, al-Nusra released a video entitled The Heirs of Glory, which included old audio recordings of Osama bin Laden, including his 1998 announcement: This is how we want to incite the Islamic nation to rise up to liberate their countries and wage jihad in the way of Allah and establish the law of Allah, so that the word of Allah prevails. The video also glorified the September 11 attacks. In a report published in July 2016, Amnesty International accused al-Nusra of torture, child abduction and summary executions. In December 2014, for example, al-Nusra fighters executed a woman on charges of adultery and stoned to death women accused of extramarital relationships. Overall, they had strictly interpreted Sharia law and imposed punishments for alleged violations that amount to torture or other ill-treatment, the report said. In addition, al-Nusra has carried out numerous terrorist attacks in major Syrian cities, including Damascus, Aleppo and Homs, each of which has claimed several dozen lives. The terror of al-Jolanis fighters was so massive that the US government also classified the HTS (Hayat Tahrir al-ShamOrganisation for the Liberation of the Levant), which emerged from the al-Nusra Front, as a foreign terrorist organisation and imposed a $10 million bounty on al-Jolani himself. Meanwhile, the US has withdrawn the bounty and Western officials such as Baerbock and her French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot are making a pilgrimage to Damascus on behalf of the EU to pay their respects to the jihadists. The reasons for this are obvious. They all believe they can utilise HTS as their subcontractor to further their geostrategic interests in the war-ravaged country, as we wrote in a recent analysis. Berlin is particularly keen to play down the Islamists in order to secure German influence in the imperialist subjugation of Syria and the entire Middle East after the fall of the Assad regime. In a statement, Baerbock said: We know where HTS comes from ideologically, what it has done in the past. But we also hear and see the desire for moderation and for engagement with other key players. She said they would continue to measure HTS by its actions, but should not let the chance slip away to support the people in Syria at this important crossroads. In fact, mass protests against the HTS are already developing in Syria shortly after the Islamists came to power. The jihadists are seen as a particular threat by religious and confessional minorities. According to media reports, the number of house searches, lootings, harassment of women and executions has increased since the HTS came to power, especially in areas inhabited by a majority of Alawites. All this did not deter Baerbock from giving al-Jolani the warmest of welcomeseven though he pointedly refused her the bloody handshake as a woman. In an interview on her return journey, however, Baerbock was pleased to note that she had also spoken to the Islamist about womens rights in their long and intensive conversation. She also pointed out that the new head of the Syrian central bank was a woman. Baerbocks closing of ranks with the supposedly reformed HTS terrorists goes hand in hand with her support for the Israeli Netanyahu regime, which is committing genocide against the Palestinians and is now also bombing parts of Syria, and the NATO war escalation against Russia. Almost two years after the publication of her guidelines, it is clear what feminist foreign policy essentially means: imperialist terror, mass murder and war. This photo shows an IKEA location in Philadelphia, Monday, January 6, 2020. [AP Photo/Matt Rourke] On December 28, 320 unionized workers at the Perryville IKEA distribution center in northern Maryland voted to remain on strike into the new year after voting down a tentative agreement offered to them by the company and the International Association of Machinists (IAM) union. The distribution workers have been on strike since mid-November, citing seniority treatment and pay which is below the cost of living. Seniority is the most important thing here, said striking worker Lisa Mengel in a video statement released by More Perfect Union. It keeps favoritism at bay. If they dont care for you, if youre not one of their favorites they can give you less likeable jobs. They can move you from one job to another without any real concern about your ability to keep up. A review of the job on Indeed notes, your daily duties change for whatever manager on dutys priorities are at that moment. one never gets a chance to complete a job and then is asked why it wasnt done. According to the job listing site, the average worker at the facility makes around $39,000 a year, about half of the median income level in Perryville. The distribution hub delivers to 39 retail stores throughout the United States and Canada, and is located approximately halfway between Baltimore and Philadelphia on the economically critical Interstate-95 corridor. In August, the warehouse became the first IKEA hub in the country to introduce AI-powered inventory-checking drones to fly alongside workers 24/7, according to the technology publication The Verge. In 2012, the facility was the first IKEA hub in the US to unionize, as 320 of the locations 550 employees are organized as part of IAM Local 460. The strike has been turbulent, with multiple arrests on the picket line. In late November, local press reported an unnamed union official was arrested for blocking traffic to the facility and disturbing the peace, after police confronted workers for picketing outside the entrance. On December 19, over a month after the strike began, another worker, Joshua Anthony Wescott, was arrested on the picket line for blocking traffic and disorderly conduct. Authorities allege Wescott, 33, was intoxicated. Workers at IKEA have courageously opted to continue their fight for improved living conditions. This is part of an international industrial upsurge within the working class as workers in industry after industry rebel against pro-management contracts and offers, demanding their living standards be met. Despite their determination, workers struggles are being hamstrung by the union bureaucracy. The IAM union, which represents nearly 600,000 workers throughout the United States and is described by WBAL news radio as one of North Americas largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, has largely stood by, offering little more than poverty level strike pay and boilerplate public relation commentary while appealing to so-called labor friendly officials in the US capitalist political establishment. Following the first arrest on the picket line in December, the IAM pathetically accused the company of using Heavy-Handed Tactics and filed a complaint with the Biden White Houses Labor Department. It also published a letter written by Maryland Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen calling on management to bargain in good faith. This is a continuation of the IAMs strategy employed during the powerful Boeing aerospace workers strike on the West Coast during fall. Over 33,000 Boeing machinists struck for over a month, rejecting two sellout tentative agreement offers which failed to address cost of living and retirement benefit demands. IAM officials worked with the company and representatives from the White House to force through a corporate-friendly deal while stringing workers along at strike-pay levels of $250 a week, which they didnt start to receive until several weeks after the strike began. Following the strike, Boeing moved forward with plans to eliminate 17,000 employees, including many workers previously on strike. Workers were not informed of the layoff notices until after the strike, as management and the union, along with the White House negotiators, had preferred not to let the news interfere with their efforts to defeat the workers on strike. At the end of December, the cabinet of Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba approved a new record-high military budget for 2025. It is the 13th consecutive year that Japan has increased military spending and is part of Japans ongoing remilitarization, as Tokyo, alongside the United States, prepares to wage war against China and expand its involvement in the war against Russia. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, bottom centre, accompanied by his new cabinet members in Tokyo, November 11, 2024 [AP Photo/Yoshikazu Tsuno] Ishibas cabinet approved the 8.7 trillion-yen ($US55.3 billion) budget on December 27 which requires parliamentary approval by March. It is a 9.43 percent increase over last years budget. It does not include additional spending on public works or research and development for military purposes that could raise actual military spending by more one trillion yen as was the case in 2024. The 2025 military budget is part of a larger 115 trillion-yen ($US731 billion) national spending bill. This year is the third in the five-year military build-up plan, totalling 43 trillion-yen ($US273 billion), unveiled in December 2022 as part of Japans revised National Security Strategy as well as its National Defense Strategy and Defense Buildup Program. Tokyo is doubling military spending to approximately two percent of GDP, in line with the target set by NATO. It would make Japan the third largest military spender in the world after the United States and China respectively. Ishiba, a far-right war hawk and former defense minister, became prime minister in October. Like his predecessors Fumio Kishida and Yoshihide Suga, he is continuing the remilitarization agenda that sharply accelerated under Shinzo Abe throughout the 2010s. Tokyo has all but thrown out Article 9 of the constitution, which bans Japan from acquiring military weaponry and waging war overseas. The Japanese government has never fully adhered to Article 9, chipping away at it almost as soon as the constitution went into effect in 1947. However, the ruling class paid lip service to it, conscious of the widespread anti-war sentiment in the working class and among youth. Now, however, Tokyo is openly acquiring offensive weaponry that would be capable of striking targets in China, Russia, or North Korea. This includes 940 billion yen ($US5.9 billion) for developing long-range missiles, a satellite constellation, and the deployment of Tomahawk cruise missiles. Tokyo inked a deal to purchase 400 Tomahawks from the United States last January. An additional 1.8 billion yen ($US11.4 million) will be spent on equipment to launch Tomahawk missiles from Japans Aegis naval destroyers. Another 533 billion yen ($US3.4 billion) will be spent on missile interceptors and mobile reconnaissance radars in Okinawa, which hosts approximately half of the 54,000 US troops stationed in Japan. The purpose is to prepare the region for a US-instigated war with China over Taiwan, a conflict in which Tokyo plans to take an active role. The Ryukyu (or Nansei) Islands, which make up Okinawa Prefecture, have been increasingly militarized over the last several years with the deployment of missile batteries and military units. From these islands, Japan would funnel weapons into Taiwan as the US bogs China down in a war similar to the strategy employed against Russia in Ukraine. However, a war would undoubtedly expand to the Chinese mainland and throughout the Indo-Pacific as the US and Japan attempt to carve up China in pursuit of their imperialist interests. Part of the budget also includes a focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and unmanned weaponry. Tokyo plans to build three 4,800-ton multi-purpose compact destroyers, known as the New FFM (or Future Multi-Mission Frigate), totalling 314.8 billion yen ($US2 billion). The ships require only 90 crew members through the use of AI and automated systems, or less than half that needed on older vessels. These ships are upgraded versions of the Mogami-class destroyer which carry long-range missiles as well as having stealth, anti-submarine, and mine warfare capabilities. The Defense Ministry plans to acquire 12 in total. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, which produces the warship, is competing with German company Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems to be selected by Australia to provide the upgraded Mogami to the Australian navy. In this regard, Tokyo is working to expand its participation as part of the anti-China AUKUS alliance that includes Australia, the United Kingdom and the US. While not a full member, Japan is cooperating under AUKUS Tier 2, which involves sharing advanced military technology. This is just one aspect of the military cooperation between Tokyo and Canberra as part of the war preparations against China. In 2023, the two sides agreed to implement a Reciprocal Access Agreement that allows troops from one country to more easily enter the other. Japan is deploying fighter jets and marines to northern Australia on a rotational basis. The burden for this record-high military spending falls on the Japanese working class and poor as economic conditions decline. In October, the International Monetary Fund estimated that the economy grew by just 0.3 percent for 2024 and will grow by only 1.1 percent this year. Real wages have fallen nearly every month for the past two and half years, including a 0.4 percent drop in October. To pay for its militarist agenda, the government plans to impose a 4 percent surtax on corporate taxes, an increase big business will have no trouble avoiding through tax loopholes. The government will also increase taxes on heated tobacco products and cigarettes. The government intends to raise income taxes by at least 1 percent, but a final agreement has not been reached given the broad public opposition. Speaking on this opposition, a former US-Japan alliance manager told the Japan Times, At a time when the economy was an important factor in the Liberal Democratic Partys trouncing in the most recent election, it will be difficult for Ishiba to justify why Japan needs to pour money into, say, an arsenal of Tomahawk cruise missiles or a next-generation fighter jet. There is also broad opposition to war itself. The focus on AI in the budget is to address the fact that Japans military, formally known as the Self-Defense Forces (SDF), has struggled to recruit new troops. In 2023, the SDF barely reached half of its recruitment goal, bringing in 9,959 new troops across the Ground SDF, Maritime SDF, and Air SDF. The Defense Ministry had set a goal of 19,598. This trend is not new, but has been ongoing for years. The Japanese ruling class blames this on the countrys declining population and low birthrate, which has steadily fallen since the 1970s. This is in no small part due to declining economic conditions that make getting married, having children, and raising families increasingly difficult. However, workers also have no interest in sending their children off to war. The International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) will hold a public meeting entitled How to defeat the IMF austerity program on January 9 at Kandyan Arts Residency Hall in Kandy. We are holding this meeting following the cancellation of our previously scheduled lecture at Peradeniya University on January 3. The lecture, which was suddenly banned by university authorities, had been sponsored by the universitys Political Science Student Association (PSSA) and permission granted by the head of the Department of Political Science. On the morning of January 3, however, the IYSSE was informed that the Acting Vice Chancellor of the Peradeniya University had ordered cancellation of the lecture because its topic challenged government policies. Alternatively, the IYSSE was told that it should change the lecture title, an effective ban on the meeting. The IYSSE immediately issued a statement condemning this political censorship, describing it as an anti-democratic attack on the freedom of expression of the PSSA, university students as a whole and the IYSSE. There were indications that the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP)/National Peoples Power (NPP) government played a role in the cancellation of the meeting. We also urged students, university teachers, non-academic workers and other workers and youth to support our right to hold this meeting and condemn the suppression of democratic rights. The IYSSE, however, has decided to hold this meeting in Kandy because of the urgency of its subject matter. During the IYSSE campaign for the public lecture at Peradeniya campus students, academics and workers expressed their opposition to the brutal IMF austerity measures implemented since 2023 by then President Ranil Wickremesinghe and now continued by the current JVP/NPP government of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. These austerity measures, which involve the privatisation or commercialisation of state-owned enterprises, the destruction of hundreds of thousands of public sector jobs, and further funding cuts to public health and education, are a life and death question for all working people. The JVP/NPP government, the establishment parties, the trade union bureaucracies and their fake left hangers-on all defend the capitalist system. The IYSSE and the Socialist Equality Party (SEP-Sri Lanka) are the only organisations fighting for an independent mobilisation of the working class based on socialist and internationalist policies to defeat the IMFs brutal social attacks. We urge workers, students and teachers to attend our forthcoming meeting to discuss these vital issues. Meeting venue: Kandyan Arts Residency Hall, Kandy [near Kingswood College] Date and time: Thursday, January 9, at 4 p.m. Harmony and Dissonance: Orphism in Paris, 19101930, Guggenheim Museum in New York City, November 8, 2024March 9, 2025 The exhibition Harmony and Dissonance: Orphism in Paris 19101930 at the Guggenheim Museum in New York highlights an artistic movement that arose at a time of rapid technological advances and sharpening international tensions. The trend was at its most prominent in the years immediately preceding World War I, from 1911 to 1914. Its leading figures included Czech artist Frantisek Kupka (1871-1957) and French artists Robert Delaunay (1885-1941) and Sonia Delaunay (1885-1979). Robert Delaunay, Windows Open Simultaneously 1st Part, 3rd Motif, 1912 Through their use of color, the Orphists, whose movement was named after the poet and musician Orpheus of Greek legend, sought to convey the simultaneity that innovations in areas such as electrification, aviation and communication were imparting to modern life. Emphasizing sensation and the similarities between painting and music, the Orphists moved away from representative art toward pure abstraction. The exhibition brings welcome attention to a modern art movement that is less widely known than others, at least in the United States. Many of the paintings pulse with energy and a sense of possibility. But in explaining the historical and ideological context for the emergence and decline of Orphism, the curators have contented themselves with broad strokes. Nor do they draw attention to the parallels between the Orphists period and our own. There are a number of contradictions and problems bound up with art trends of this era, as visually fresh and even breathtaking as they often were, which need to be considered. In the period before World War I, the influence of German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche was pervasive among European and American artists. Nietzsche espoused subjectivity, spontaneity and the liberation of the instincts. Despite his essentially aristocratic perspective, Nietzsche struck many artists as a radical, anti-establishment figure. His paeans to irrational chaos and intoxication seemed more appealing to many artistic figures than the project of analyzing, for example, the contradictions between the recent technological advances and the outmoded political and social order or turning to the apparently prosaic struggles of the working class. Robert Delaunay, Simultaneous Contrasts-Sun and Moon, 1913 (dated on painting 1912) Georg Lukacs argued in The Destruction of Reason (1952): Nietzsches philosophy performed the social task of rescuing and redeeming this type of bourgeois mind. It offered a road which avoided the need for any break, or indeed any serious conflict, with the bourgeoisie. It was a road whereby the pleasant moral feeling of being a rebel could be sustained and even intensified, whilst a more thorough, cosmic biological revolution was enticingly projected in contrast to the superficial, external social revolution. Orphism developed out of Cubism, pioneered by Georges Braque and Pablo Picasso. Cubism, which sought to break down its subjects into their geometric components, bore the impress of Nietzschean subjectivism. There is nothing real outside of us, wrote the artists Albert Gleizes and Jean Metzinger in On Cubism. We seek the essential, but we seek it in our personality, not in an eternity laboriously fashioned by mathematicians and philosophers. This extreme individualism and the assertion that the external world was unknowable were carried into Orphism, a movement that Gleizes and Metzinger helped to develop. Unlike the Cubists, who took an analytical approach to their subjects, the Orphists tended toward lyricism. In contrast with Cubisms muted palette of browns, grays, black and white, Orphism adopted bright, even dazzling, colors. And although Cubism remained rooted in representational art (in however radical a form), Orphism evolved toward pure abstraction. Given its radical subjectivism, Orphism had at best a limited ability or inclination to reveal truths about social life. The Orphists based their theory and deployment of color on the ideas of chemist Michel-Eugene Chevreul, who wrote the most broadly adopted color manual of the 19th century. One of the chemists books is on display at the Guggenheim. Cheuvreul developed the law of simultaneous contrast, which holds that when colors are juxtaposed, they mutually influence each other: each color imposes its own complementary color on the other. The Orphists harnessed these ideas, which were rooted in scientific study, to the expression of sensation and the evocation of emotion. Robert Delaunay, First Disk, 1913 French poet Guillaume Apollinaire provided Orphism with its name and emphasized its subjective perspective. Orphism was the art of painting new totalities with elements that the artist does not take from visual reality, but creates entirely by himself, he wrote in 1913. The artists were responding to increasingly explosive and ominous events and processes that they largely did not understand, catching at certain sides of these developments, ignoring or misreading others. There was a general intuition that the old socio-economic order and accompanying culture were exhausted, but what would replace them? The influence of Nietzscheanism and other forms of irrationalism encouraged many artists to take what was for them the path of least resistance, toward the conception that ideas and emotions determined life. Before the first world war, wrote Trotsky, capitalist society passed through two decades of unparalleled economic prosperity which destroyed the old concepts of wealth and power, and elaborated new standards, new criteria of the possible and of the impossible, and urged people towards new exploits. At the same time, the social movement lived on officially in the automatism of yesterday. The armed peace, with its patches of diplomacy, the hollow parliamentary systems, the external and internal politics based on the system of safety valves and brakes, all this weighed heavily on poetry at a time when the air, charged with accumulated electricity, gave sign of impending great explosions. Futurism and other art trends, including Expressionism, Fauvism, Cubism and Orphism, in differing ways, were the foreboding of all this in art. Sonia Delaunay, The Ball, 1913 The Guggenheim exhibition introduces the leading Orphiststhe Delaunays and Kupkain its first gallery. The movements international character is already apparent in this trio of artists. Robert Delaunay was born in Paris. His wife Sonia was born in Ukraine and studied in Russia and Germany before moving to France. Kupka was born in Opocno, Austria-Hungary, a town that is now part of the Czech Republic. Robert Delaunays Cubist phase is evident in his early Eiffel Tower series. In Eiffel Tower (1911), the subject is rendered in broken lines and incomplete planes. The irregular grid and diagonals of Windows Open Simultaneously 1st Part, 3rd Motif (1912) also derive from Cubism, but Delaunay is beginning to abandon representation and to dedicate himself to vivid colors. Not angles, but curves dominate the tondo (a Renaissance term for a circular work of art) Simultaneous Contrasts: Sun and Moon (1913). Gentle gradations of color sit side by side with contrasts. A white, eyelike moon gazes calmly at the flaming sun, which also suggests a cluster of blazing flowers. The paintings evocation of nature in its immensity balances between joy and reverence. By First Disk (1913), another tondo, Delaunay has crossed into pure abstraction. The painting is a series of concentric circles divided into quadrants; dark and earthy tones predominate on the bottom, and watery and fiery tones on top. The palette and contrasts simulate radiance but promote contemplation rather than bedazzlement. The effect is harmonious and mystical, embodying Delaunays signature style. Sonia Delaunay, Electric Prisms, 1914 Sonia Delaunays paintings more clearly reflect Orphisms engagement with the other arts and with the advances that were changing modern life. Le Bal Bullier (1913) is a panoramic painting named after a dance hall that the Delaunays frequented. With lively colors and contrasts, and with horizontal lines and curves, it captures the sway of dancers under electric lights. One of the exhibitions most outstanding works is Delaunays design for Prose of the Trans-Siberian and of Little Joan of France (1913), a fanciful poem by Blaise Cendrars about a train voyage around the world. The book is unconventionally printed in a seven-foot-long sheet that unfolds like an accordion. Delaunays brightly colored curves and arches cascade down the left as the poem flows along the right. Both painting and poem convey the wonder and beauty of the world and of the modern transportation that was making it more accessible. In Electric Prisms (1914), two dazzling electric lights (which recall Robert Delaunays First Disk) throw arcs of many colors upon a highly abstract street scene. Technology is associated with an almost mystical experience that Delaunay seeks to evoke through complementary colors that paradoxically unify the canvas. Frantisek Kupka, Red and Blue Disks (dated on painting 1911-12) As it was for the Delaunays, the disk was a central motif for Kupka, who was equally interested in occult philosophy and hard sciences such as physics and biology. Based on overlapping disks and arcs and painted largely in primary colors, Red and Blue Disks (1911) seems to radiate beyond the edges of the canvas. Though he painted it in oil, Kupka achieved the delicate, translucent effect of watercolor. The disks and arcs of Disks of Newton, Study for Fugue in Two Colors (1912) are more solid and fixed. Fields of black and beams of white and blue anchor the brighter concentric circles, which seem to gleam pure white light. In Localization of Graphic Motifs II (1913) Kupka changes his technique and compositional elements. Shapes that recall leaves or reptilian scales swirl toward a white vortex at the center of the canvas. These fuchsia, green and gray forms are rendered in many small brushstrokes. Here, Kupka has built a stereoscopic bridge to guide the eye and convey depth. Paintings by other Orphists, such as Gleizes and Metzinger, are included in this expansive exhibition, as well. The French artist Francis Picabia, who changed styles many times during his career, is also represented at the Guggenheim. The effects of Orphism in America are visible in canvases by Stanton Macdonald-Wright and Morgan Russell, who developed the small and closely related Synchromist movement. Frantisek Kupka, Disks of Newton, Study for Fugue in Two Colors, c.1911 The exhibition also includes several paintings by Italian Futurists, who were contemporaries of the Orphists. The bright colors and geometric abstraction of Gino Severinis Dancer = Propeller = Sea (1915) have much in common with Orphism. In addition to emphasizing technology and speed (even more than the Orphists did), the Futurists fetishized youth, physical fitness and violence. Moreover, they were staunch nationalists, and many of them embraced fascism. But the exhibition hardly mentions the Italian Futurists politics or their historical and philosophical (i.e., Nietzschean) roots. Much of the work on display predates World War I, which profoundly affected the artists. Apollinaire was struck in the temple by shrapnel and never fully recovered. Cendrars lost his right arm. The Delaunays moved to Portugal, which was neutral, and painted outdoor markets and the Iberian coast, shunning the war. Other artists left Europe entirely. The exhibition is silent about the geopolitical and economic roots of this epochal event. Nor does it mention how the war altered artists consciousness (e.g., by challenging patriotism, religious faith and even faith in reason and progress). Even more tellingly, the exhibition contains no reference whatsoever to another world-shaking event of the period: the Russian Revolution. The postwar paintings on display show Kupkas continuous experimentation with technique. His work, unlike that of the Delaunays, grew in sophistication and complexity. But the exhibition does not acknowledge that Orphism ended as an active movement with World War I. Subsequent movements such as Suprematism and De Stijl retreated further from the depiction of the external world and oriented themselves toward spirituality and pure artistic feeling. In contrast, the Dada movement openly rejected patriotism, war and the establishment. It gleefully and pitilessly satirized capitalist society through absurdity and provocation. Harmony and Dissonance brings a trove of wonderful paintings to public attention. Anyone interested in the way that artists responded to the developments of the early 20th century should visit this exhibition. But besides falling short in placing Orphism in its historical and philosophical context, the exhibition fails to evaluate the movement critically. To recognize the Orphists visual brilliance still leaves a number of questions unanswered: Where did this trend lead to? How enduring were its conceptions and approaches? How richly, persuasively and meaningfully did it encounter the world and society of its epoch? Ultimately, to have the deepest and most enduring impact, art needs to reveal important, all-sided truths about the reality its viewers inhabit. The latter are not empty machines who merely appreciate formal excellence. The Orphists, despite their interest in science and their enthusiasm for technology, subscribed to a radical subjectivity that precluded an examination of the social relations and psychology of the modern life and trends they celebrated. Though their work represented formal advances and expressed the thrill of new possibilities, it did not transcend the artists surface impressions of urban life during their epoch. WINDHOEK, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Namibian President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on Monday met with Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chinese Foreign Minister, in Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. Wang conveyed warm greetings from Chinese President Xi Jinping to Ndaitwah, congratulated her on being elected Namibia's first female president and expressed his best wishes for greater achievements in Namibia's nation-building efforts. He said that Chinese foreign ministers have made Africa the destination of their first overseas visit for 35 consecutive years, a tradition that underscores China's unique diplomatic approach. Noting that this year marks the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Namibia, Wang said bilateral cooperation has immense potential for the future. He recalled the successful Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in Beijing last year when the Chinese president announced 10 partnership action plans to jointly advance modernization. Wang expressed China's readiness to align with Namibia to accelerate the implementation of the summit's outcomes to ensure continuous progress in their comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership. China will continue to support Namibia in pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions, said Wang, praising Namibia's steadfast adherence to the one-China principle. He said that China is willing to work with Namibia to deepen political trust, strengthen interparty exchanges and share governance experiences to enhance mutual understanding and provide guidance for bilateral relations. China remains committed to supporting Namibia's economic development by helping transform its resource advantages into developmental and societal benefits, jointly advancing modernization in both countries, Wang said. With 2025 marking the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, Wang called for stronger strategic coordination in multilateral fields to safeguard the common interests of Africa and developing countries, while upholding international fairness and justice. Ndaitwah asked Wang to convey her sincere greetings to President Xi Jinping and gratitude for his congratulatory message following Namibia's presidential election. Ndaitwah said that in 2018, the leaders of Namibia and China elevated their bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, which was of great significance. She welcomed Wang's visit to Africa and Namibia at the beginning of the new year, noting that he is the first foreign minister she has met since the election, which reflected the high regard both sides hold for the bilateral relations. Underlining the sister-party relationship between the South West Africa People's Organisation (SWAPO) Party and the CPC, Ndaitwah thanked the CPC for sending representatives to observe Namibia's election and expressed a desire to continue strengthening exchanges and cooperation between the two parties. Ndaitwah said the people of the two countries have sustained longstanding friendship and Namibia will continue to consolidate and promote bilateral cooperation and remain committed to the one-China principle. She expressed readiness to implement the outcomes of the FOCAC Beijing Summit and enhance cooperation with China in trade, education, agriculture, infrastructure and energy resources, to bring new opportunities for Namibia's economic and social development and deliver benefits to the people of both nations. In the lead-up to President-elect Donald Trumps inauguration, corporate newspapers and media companies that previously postured as defenders of democracy and opponents of authoritarianism are now bending the knee before the aspiring dictator by censoring political cartoons critical of him and his government, which serves the financial oligarchy. One Franklin Square Building, home of The Washington Post newspaper, Friday, June 21, 2024 in Washington D.C. [AP Photo/Alex Brandon] Last week, Ann Telnaes, an award-winning editorial cartoonist, resigned from the Jeff Bezos-owned Washington Post after the billionaire-owned paper suppressed a political cartoon she submitted. The cartoon depicted Bezos and other oligarchs genuflecting before Trump on a throne. Bezos, the former CEO of Amazon and the second-richest person in the world (behind Trumps wealthiest benefactor, Elon Musk, owner of X), bought the Post in 2013 for a reported $250 million. It is clear why the Posts increasingly right-wing editorial staff reacted negatively to Telnaes incisive political cartoon. Upon seeing it, one immediately recalls John Heartfields famous 1932 work, The Meaning of the Hitler Salute: Little Man Asks for Gifts. Motto: Millions Stand Behind Me! The Meaning of the Hitler Salute: Little Man Asks for Gifts. Motto: Millions Stand Behind Me! October 1932 In Heartfields rendition, a puny Hitler holds out his hand to receive money from a rotund banker. In Telnaes sketch, a dumpy Trump, standing on a Roman pedestal, receives moneybags from the worlds wealthiest people and corporations. In an Ann Telnaes sketch that The Washington Post refused to publish, Jeff Bezos, Sam Altman, Mark Zuckerberg, Patrick Soon-Shiong and the Walt Disney Company give money and bow at the altar of Trump. [Photo: Ann Telnaes] Both commentaries accurately depict the central role of the bourgeoisie in politically and financially promoting fascists and fascism to serve their class interests. In a post on her Substack explaining her resignation and the cartoon, Telnaes wrote that she had worked at the paper since 2008. While she had previously received editorial feedback and productive conversationsand some differencesabout cartoons I have submitted for publication. Ive never had a cartoon killed because of who or what I chose to aim my pen at. Until now. She added that while it was not uncommon for editorial page editors to object to visual metaphors if they are unclear or fail to convey the intended message, such criticism was not the case regarding this cartoon. She stressed that she had never had a sketch rejected because of the point of view inherent in the cartoons commentary. Thats a game changer and dangerous for a free press. In an interview with NPR posted on January 5, Telnaes reiterated: Ive never, ever, since Ive worked for the Post in 2008, been not allowed to comment on certain topics by having cartoons killed. We have to have the freedom to say what we want to say, she added. We are visual opinion makers. The Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist wrote on her Substack that the cartoon that was killed criticizes the billionaire tech and media chief executives who have been doing their best to curry favor with incoming President-elect Trump. There have been multiple articles recently about these men with lucrative government contracts and an interest in eliminating regulations making their way to Mar-a-lago. The group in the cartoon included Mark Zuckerberg/Facebook & Meta founder and CEO, Sam Altman/AI CEO, Patrick Soon-Shiong/LA Times publisher, the Walt Disney Company/ABC News, and Jeff Bezos/Washington Post owner. In a statement to NPR and other outlets, Post Editorial Page Editor David Shipley defended the decision to censor the cartoon while claiming it was simply a question of repetition. He wrote, Not every editorial judgment is a reflection of a malign force. My decision was guided by the fact that we had just published a column on the same topic as the cartoon and had already scheduled another columnthis one a satirefor publication. The only bias was against repetition. The only repetition at play here is Bezos and the oligarchy tipping the scales toward Trump and dictatorship. Leading up to and after the election, all of the figures and corporations depicted in the cartoon have debased themselves before Trump to strengthen their relationshipsand their bottom lineswith the incoming administration. In October, Bezos blocked a planned Post endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris, prompting the resignation of several pro-Democratic Party editors and writers and a collapse in subscriptions. NPR reported that as many as 300,000 Post readers have unsubscribed since October. In December, Amazon announced it would be donating $1 million to Trumps inauguration fund. The week before Bezos killed the Post endorsement of Harris, billionaire LA Times owner Patrick Soon-Shiong similarly blocked a Harris endorsement by the Times. After previously donating millions to Democratic Party candidates, the New York Times reported in November that Meta CEO Zuckerberg held at least two private phone calls with Trump over the summer before meeting him for dinner at Mar-a-Lago after the election. Following the dinner, several outlets reported in December that Zuckerberg was donating $1 million to Trumps inauguration fund. Likewise, after previously donating to President Joe Bidens 2024 election campaign, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman personally gave Trump $1 million for his inaugural fund, according to reports in Business Standard and other outlets in mid-December. As for Disney/ABC, depicted in Telnaes cartoon by a prostrate Mickey Mouse, the company capitulated to a Trump defamation lawsuit last month by agreeing to pay $15 million to Trumps online presidential library and $1 million to Trumps legal team. While all the major capitalist papers and media companies serve as quasi-official tools of the US national security apparatus and imperialism, the fact that the ruling oligarchyafter monopolizing all the major media companiesis now suppressing political cartoons and endorsements, with barely a whisper from the Democratic Party, underscores the complete abdication of any defense of democratic rights by all sections of the ruling class. Indeed, the actions of media companies align closely with the broader response of the Democratic Party. Rather than mobilizing opposition to Trumps authoritarian agenda, the Democratic Party has pledged cooperation and collaboration with the incoming administration. On the other end of the social pole, since Shipley censored Telnaes cartoon, it has gone viral on social media. Several retweets of the cartoon have garnered millions of views and supportive comments, with many expressing hostility to the dominance of a small group of billionaires over all aspects of social and political life. UPS workers: Take up the fight against closures and layoffs! Join the UPS Worker Rank-and-File Committee by filling out the form below. A UPS driver unloads packages from a truck and arranges them for delivery. [AP Photo/Mark Lennihan] UPS will close its Swan Island hub in Portland, Oregon, this summer in order to convert it into an automated facility, the Teamsters union confirmed in a local meeting Sunday. The move will impact around 600 people, who still work at the facility. This is the latest hub to be closed since the passage of the new Teamsters contract in 2023, which union officials falsely described as a historic victory. In reality, it is a key piece of the companys so-called Network of the Future restructuring, which threatens tens of thousands of jobs. Threatening to automate everything, management intends to close or automate 200 facilities under the program, while citing the labor certainty of the new contract as key to their plans. The contract was passed under false pretenses, following a strike-ready campaign by the Teamsters, which in reality had no intention of striking. This was a public relations stunt designed to present the contract they had worked out with management as the product of hard bargaining. Other facilities targeted for closure in recent weeks include hubs in Commerce City, Colorado; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and the Grande Vista hub in Vernon, California. The closure of Swan Island was long suspected, with various sources reporting to the WSWS that the move was in the works. The hub was also one of many throughout the country where the company eliminated day sort shifts, affecting hundreds of jobs at this facility alone. It is urgent that UPS workers build a rank-and-file movement to force a stop to these closures. The UPS Workers Rank-and-File Committee, built in 2023 to fight the sellout contract, has consistently warned that these layoffs were coming while the Teamsters has maintained a guilty silence. The unity of workers around the world is critical to this fight. The closures at UPS are part of a massive worldwide cost-cutting campaign, including the post offices in the US, Canada, Britain and other countries, and in the auto industry and even white collar industries, such as the technology and film sectors in which automation is being weaponized to destroy jobs. The natural allies of UPS workers are workers at the US Postal Service, decimated by restructuring and targeted for privatization under Trump, Canada Post workers who struck for more than a month before the Trudeau government banned the strike, Royal Mail workers in Britain, Amazon workers and other logistics workers around the world who are fighting against the corporate oligarchy. Workers must insist that they have the right to take all measures necessary to defend their jobs. This can only be put into practice through a struggle to transfer power out of the hands of the corrupt union officials and into the hands of workers themselves, replacing the bureaucracy with new leadership drawn from the rank and file. The bureaucracys sole concern is maintaining its corrupt relations with management and with the corporate political parties. Over the holidays, the Teamsters called a nationwide strike at Amazon, which was then shut down after only a few days. While this showed the possibility of a powerful movement uniting UPS, Amazon and other sections of the working class, the Teamsters had called it only to bolster their credibility after massive betrayals. Meanwhile, the Teamsters bureaucracy and General President Sean OBrien are close allies of Trump, having de facto endorsed him in the November election. OBrien has publicly promoted Trumps racist America First rhetoric, falsely presenting attacks on immigrants and trade war measures as being to the benefit of workers in the United States. In reality, this is aimed at covering up the responsibility of the oligarchs in America, assisted by their lackeys in the trade unions, in carrying out mass layoffs. Worsening conditions at UPS The Sunday meeting in Portland, which was little advertised to the wider workforce and sparsely attended (outside of those close to the Teamsters bureaucracy), also confirmed that workers who transferred to other hubs in the region would lose their Market Rate Adjustment (MRA). MRAs are local pay increases, implemented at the discretion of management at individual locations to attract labor when the wages negotiated in the Teamsters contract are too low. The fate of MRAs was a major issue in the 2023 contract. While the Teamsters boasted of starting pay increases to $21 per hour for part-time warehouse workers, rising to $23 in 2028, it was unclear whether this could simply be canceled out in many areas by eliminating MRAs which were already at or above that level. Evasive statements at the time by Teamsters officials suggested that this was at the discretion of management. We didnt vote for this, one Swan Island worker said. Another worker said, After losing day shift I dont know if I can handle another big change. And now, the union say oh youll still have a job, but what kind of job? Loading trailers? In my 50s? After decades here? In addition to the loss of the day shift, management at Swan Island has continuously dwindled down preparation time before shifts from 45 to 20 minutes, which workers now call poverty time. Nationwide, unsafe working conditions are rampant. Last month, a fire ripped through a UPS warehouse in Athens, Tennessee, destroying packages and damaging nearly two dozen delivery vehicles. Once the fire happened, the employees were moved to the Knoxville facility and are working out of a temporary village, and getting all of the packages moved to the Athens area from the Knoxville facility, the Teamsters Local 519 President told the local station Newschannel 9. Theyre working 10 to 12 hours, and now theyve sacrificed, from the Athens facility, to drive an hour away. Meanwhile, the wait for part-timers, the overwhelming majority of the companys workforce, to move to full-time positions has increased to 7 years to over a decade. The Teamsters had boasted that the new contract would create 7,500 new full-time jobs, which will be more than offset by the Network of the Future restructuring, if they ever happen. The WSWS spoke to workers at the Maspeth hub in New York City over the holiday season, where workers are sleeping in their cars between split shifts in order to keep their full-time status. Here it is peak season, and the business volume is insane which makes the work exhausting, one worker said. You just want to finish work and go home and sleep every day. There are drivers coming to our center because we need help, but it is only like 5 people. There are workers here working split shifts where one shift ends at 10:30 p.m. and the next starts at 4:00 a.m. Many cant go home. We cant get information here about what is happening outside our building. The union should be doing that and keeping us informed about what is going on all over. The union is supposed to represent everybody. But they are playing with workers, like the Combo Helpers. They are not calling them until one hour before their shift starts to tell them where in the city they have go to meet the truck they have to help deliver from. Workers at the hub were disgusted to learn that in Canada, the Teamsters were forcing workers at Purolator to scab on a nationwide Canada Post strike. One worker commented, That is messed up. It is not what a union is supposed to do. A union is supposed to support striking workers. It sounds corrupt to me. Another said, I believe the union who scabs doesnt have the right to speak poorly of any worker choosing to get overtime. The union supporter portion of me makes me disgusted. Its like looking at an addict being abused by their sponsor and smiling through it. 25 years ago: Death sentence postponed for Kurdish leader Abdullah Ocalan On January 12, 2000, the Turkish government postponed a vote in parliament that would have carried out the execution of Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) leader Abdullah Ocalan. Ocalan had been labeled a terrorist and condemned to death for treason by the government of Democratic Left Party (DLP) leader Bulent Ecevit. The seven-hour-long negotiating session in parliament ultimately ruled in favor of Ocalan and his lawyers, who had also appealed for a decision from the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) before Ankara initiated the death sentence. In an open attack on the democratic right to political asylum, the Turkish National Intelligence Organization (MIT) kidnapped Ocalan from the Greek embassy in Kenya in February, 1999, an operation made possible by information handed over by US spy agencies. Before the Mafia-style raid, Ocalan had been denied asylum by numerous governments, from the Arab nationalist Baathist regime in Syria to social-democratic governments in Europe. Most Turkish political formations sought to make an example of Ocalan, a bourgeois nationalist who leveraged Kurdish demands for equal democratic and cultural rights by appealing to the Western capitalist powers. This, the Turkish ruling class feared, threatened the break-up of the country, with most of the southeast home to Kurdish majorities. The ruling coalition of the DLP, the Motherland Party (ANAP), and the fascist National Movement Party (NMP), along with Islamic parties and the True Path Party (TPP), voiced support for green-lighting the execution immediately. Opposition parties such as the Kurdish-nationalist Hadep (Democratic Peoples Party), the PKK, the Turkish Organisation for Industrialists and Businessmen (Tuesiad), as well as the Islamic-oriented employers organisation (Muesiad), had opposed the death sentence. These political forces feared the execution could reignite the Kurdish conflict, endangering Turkeys planned entry to the EU, destabilizing the nation and opening the door for revolutionary upheaval. They appealed to the Turkish government, NATO, and the EU to arrive at a decision in the interests of Turkey and its closer links with Europe. The policies of the European countries had nothing to do with any concern for the democratic rights of the Kurds, as they continued to provide weapons to the Turkish government. On the same day as the postponement of Ocalans execution, editorial offices and apartments in Germany occupied by staff members of the pro-Kurdish newspaper Ozgur Politica were searched and material confiscated. 50 years ago: Soviet Union launches Soyuz 17 space mission On January 11, 1975, Soyuz 17, carrying soviet cosmonauts Aleksei Gubarev and Georgi Grechko, launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. This mission was the first long-duration stay aboard the Salyut 4 space station which had been sent into orbit unmanned in December 1974. The mission lasted 29 days and was the longest Soviet mission in space. A previous US mission, NASAs Skylab 4, completed in February 1974, had lasted a record 84 days in space. Salyut-4 The Soyuz 17 mission followed a series of setbacks in the Soviet Unions space station program. In 1971, the Soyuz 11 mission ended in tragedy when its crew perished due to cabin depressurization during re-entry after successfully completing a 23-day stay aboard Salyut 1, the worlds first space station. Subsequent missions also faced challenges: the Salyut 2 station suffered structural failures shortly after launch, and the Soyuz 12 and Soyuz 13 missions, while successful in their limited objectives, did not achieve prolonged stays aboard a space station. Soyuz 17 represented a turning point. Its successful docking with Salyut 4 and the crews ability to carry out an extended mission highlighted the progress made by Soviet engineers in the preceding years and the lessons they incorporated from earlier setbacks. In addition to achieving a prolonged spaceflight, the Soyuz 17 mission conducted a number of important scientific experiments centered around astrophysical research and conditions of microgravity. Using the advanced Filin X-ray spectrometer and the RT-4 X-ray telescope aboard Salyut 4, the cosmonauts conducted detailed observations of cosmic X-ray sources. These studies provided critical insights into high-energy phenomena such as black holes and neutron stars. The mission also broke new ground in solar studies. Instruments like the OST-1 solar spectrograph allowed the crew to monitor solar activity, including flares and radiation emissions. These observations were vital for adding to the understanding of the suns impact on Earths environment and for planning future space missions. The cosmonauts also conducted pioneering biological experiments. They studied the effects of prolonged weightlessness on various organisms, including plants and insects. For example, experiments with fruit flies found that the insects have an increased rate in genetic mutations when exposed to a microgravity environment. Other tests involving pea plants found that there was no difference in plant growth during the early stages of development but that the plants could not survive in microgravity for more than three weeks. Another key component of the mission was Earth observation. Gubarev and Grechko captured detailed images of Earths surface that would aid in environmental monitoring and resource management by providing data on phenomena such as desertification, deforestation, and polar ice coverage. Additionally, their observations of atmospheric activity helped refine understanding of weather systems and global climate patterns. The success of Soyuz 17 set the stage for more missions to the Salyut 4 space station. The next would come in May 1974 when Soyuz 18 would make another successful trip, with cosmonauts staying aboard the station for 63 days. 75 years ago: Nkrumahs Positive Action campaign opposes British colonial rule in Ghana On January 8, 1950, founder and leader of the Convention Peoples Party (CPP) Kwame Nkrumah announced the beginning of a positive action campaign in the British colony of Gold Coast (modern day Ghana). Engaging in strikes, protests, and boycotts of European goods, the masses of Ghana brought the colony to an economic standstill for 21 days in their demand for self-governance. Fearful of a social explosion, and facing opposition to their colonial rule globally, British officials asked Nkrumah in the early days of January to postpone the campaign and engage in negotiations while they considered the demands of the CPP, primarily that of national sovereignty. The colonial government was in the midst of drafting a new constitution with limited concessions, but refused to grant dominion status to the Gold Coast. Consequently, the CPP withdrew from the negotiations on January 8, and on the same day convened a mass meeting to call for a general strike to begin at midnight. Kwame Nkrumah The strike rapidly developed into a general uprising against British colonialism, including with riots in the capital, Accra, involving broad layers of the oppressed masses. Governor Charles Arden-Clarke called a state of emergency on January 11 and ordered repressive measures against the population, including banning CPP publications and arresting party members, among them Nkrumah. Anti-African pogroms were encouraged by the British government, which involved the enrollment of European civilians as auxiliary police to terrorize protesting African civilians. The police crackdown temporarily halted the movement, with Nkrumah and other leaders of the independence struggle confined to prison on sentences of up to three years. However, opposition continued to grow. In 1951, as part of an attempt to stem the tide, the British permitted the first nationwide elections with universal franchise. Nkrumah won in a landslide. He would serve as prime minister of Gold Coast until 1957, when the British finally agreed to independence. Despite the heroism of the independence struggle, Nkrumah and the CPP did not offer a viable way forward in overcoming the bitter legacy of European colonialism. Representing layers of the native bourgeoisie, Nkrumahs perspective was to maneuver between the Stalinist bureaucracy of the Soviet Union and the imperialist powers within the context of the Cold War. Nkrumah and similar nationalists were hostile to the perspective of the mobilization of the working class throughout the continent for a socialist federation of Africa, instead seeking to establish independent capitalist states largely based on the borders imposed by the European colonizers. 100 years ago: Polish press whips up nationalist sentiment against German-speaking city of Danzig On January 10, 1925, newspapers in Warsaw, the capital of the Second Polish Republic, suggested that the Free State of Danzig, a largely German-speaking semiautonomous city-state on the Baltic Sea under the stewardship of the League of Nations, could be seized by the Polish military much as Lithuania in1923 had seized the Klaipeda region, another Baltic enclave administered by the League of Nations. A conflict in Danzig had arisen over the control of the postal system. According to the arrangements of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919, Poland controlled the customs authority in city and Polish ships could dock in the port, but the postal system as well as other aspects of the citys infrastructure were operated by the city authorities. In a provocative move, Polish authorities had painted all the mailboxes in the Polish national colors overnight. Elements in Danzig had in turn painted the mailboxes in the colors of the German Empire. The Polish government demanded an apology and protested to the League of Nations, and the affair created a nationalist furor in Poland. Danzig Danzig (now called Gdansk) was a port city on the Baltic that had been a part of German Empire until its defeat by the imperialist Allied Powers in 1918. The League of Nations had created the Second Polish Republic out of Polish-speaking territory that had belonged to the Russian Empire (overthrown by the Russian working class in 1917) and the Austro-Hungarian Empire (an ally of Germany defeated in 1918) as well as to Germany, the three states that had partitioned Poland in the 18th century. The Free State of Danzig was given special status as a part of neither Germany nor Poland, but administered directly by the League. Danzig was adjacent to the German region of East Prussia to its east but separated from the rest of Germany to the West by a strip of the Polish-speaking land called Polish Corridor. American imperialism in particular insisted Poland have access through its own territory to the Baltic. The conflict threatened to throw central Europe back into war again and showed the instability of the national borders that had been created after the war by the victorious imperialist powers, particularly to stop the spread of socialist revolution and the influence of the new Soviet Republic throughout Europe. In another historic assault on free speech, the University of Sydney (USYD) is moving to prohibit any form of political dissent on campus, and particularly the mass opposition to the Israeli genocide in Gaza. Students protest against Israeli military attacks on Gaza at University of Sydney in March 2024 USYD, historically a centre of political opposition to war and inequality, is being transformed into a spearhead for the Labor governments censorship measures aimed not just at USYD staff and students but the working class as a whole. On November 26, the USYD Senate accepted all 15 recommendations from a report it commissioned by barrister Bruce Hodgkinson after the end of a weeks-long anti-genocide student encampment in July. USYDs Chancellor David Thodey announced the findings of the report, stating that it requires changes to our long-standing traditions of political activism on campus. He declared that these traditions were out of step with contemporary work health and safety standards and our obligations to maintain psychosocial safety on campus. In the past it has been rare for a chancellor, rather than a vice-chancellor, to become involved in the day-to-day work of a university, let alone publicly announce major policy changes. Thodey is a representative of the Australian corporate elite. He is an ex-IBM executive, former CEO of the privatised telecommunications provider Telstra, and current chairman of accounting software company Xero and Ramsay Health Care, Australias largest private hospital and healthcare multinational. Hodgkinsons recommendations include a proposal for a New Civility Rule. The rule will require that anyone using a word or phrase in a lecture, seminar, tutorial or a meeting which takes place within any of the Universitys facilities and does not identify to the audience the context in which it is used should be recognised as misconduct and treated accordingly. This crackdown on any statement that could be targeted as unacceptable includes, but is not limited to, all USYD staff and students. The report includes extensive recommendations to sanction organisations conducting a meeting using university facilities that do not comply with the Universitys Civility Principles. In addition, any officeholders must have completed USYDs online Engaging with Civility module. Failure to do so would amount to misconduct for the individual and result in withdrawal of funding in part or whole for the organisation. The formulations are so broad as to include any activity by student groups and unions, including internal meetings. These measures could be used against university workers preparing strikes against cuts or opposing the Albanese Labor governments pro-market and militarist agenda. Hodgkinson called on USYD to establish formal protocols with the New South Wales (NSW) and Australian Federal Police, in order to further integrate police onto campus and intimidate staff and students. The report endorses USYDs existing ban, imposed in July, on student encampments and extends this to call for the banning of lecture bombing (a student giving a short speech prior to the start of a lecture) and the hanging of banners on university footbridges. The obvious and immediate aim of the Civility Rule is to outlaw expressions of opposition to the genocide in Gaza. The report quotes extensively from Rabbi Jill Jacobs who attempted to falsely conflate anti-genocide phrases with antisemitism. Jacobs asserted that most Jews interpreted the widely-used anti-genocide protest chant, from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free as a call to expel Jews from Israel. Since the impact is often more important than the intent, Jacobs stated, such slogans should not be tolerated unless there is an opportunity to clarify their meaning. NSW Council for Civil Liberties president Tim Roberts denounced the restrictions as the end of basic forms of political expression at the university. He stated that USYD may be in breach of section 31 of the University of Sydney Act, which prohibits it from imposing disciplinary sanctions against students for expressing their political views or beliefs. Labor Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has spearheaded the assault on anti-genocide protests including the student encampments at multiple Australian universities, including USYD, in May. Albanese slandered the protests as antisemitic and displays of hatred that do not have a place in society. In June, Australias Full Federal Court ruled that USYD was justified in sacking academic Tim Anderson in 2019 for comparing Israel with the Nazi regime and criticising US war propaganda. This was followed in July by USYD adopting a Campus Access Policy, which all but prohibits protests on campus for any reason, including the establishment of a picket by workers. In November, legal firm Levitt Robinson filed a lawsuit under the federal Racial Discrimination Act against two USYD academics, John Keane and former National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) USYD branch president Nick Riemer, equating their public opposition to Zionism with antisemitism. Similar assaults are underway internationally. In the US, universities are being transformed into fortresses, with public access to campus curtailed and protests prohibited at multiple campuses. Students have faced criminal charges for peacefully protesting and have been threatened with having their academic records placed on hold or degrees withheld. In Germany, police beat up and arrested Humboldt University students protesting the genocide in May. The NTEU, the main union covering university workers, will do nothing to oppose the new measures. NTEU national president Alison Barnes absurdly called on university leaders to stand up against this sort of heavy-handed approach. The USYD NTEU branch committee stated in an email to members that it expresses the most serious concerns about all these measures and will be very active in this area in 2025, but did not clarify what, if anything, that would involve. These measures are part and parcel of the assault on fundamental democratic rights underway as the Albanese government backs the genocide, increases spending on preparations for war and attacks workers living conditions. To fight USYDs attack and this wider agenda, workers and students need to form independent rank-and-file committees and link up with the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees. If you agree with this call, contact the Committee for Public Education, the educators rank-and-file network, to discuss how to form rank-and-file committees and obtain help to do so: Contact the CFPE: Email: cfpe.aus@gmail.com Facebook: facebook.com/commforpubliceducation Twitter: CFPE_Australia UNITED NATIONS, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Sudan "remains in the grip of a humanitarian crisis of staggering proportions" after 20 months of war, a senior United Nations official said on Monday, calling for more international support and unimpeded humanitarian access. "Armed conflict continues to severely impact civilians, including humanitarian workers, across the country, despite repeated calls for a cessation of hostilities," Edem Wosornu, director of Operations and Advocacy at the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), told the UN Security Council. This situation in and around El Fasher in North Darfur remains "especially catastrophic," she said. According to OCHA data, more than 11.5 million people are estimated to be internally displaced, of whom nearly 8.8 million people have been uprooted since April 2023. Over 3.2 million others have fled into neighboring countries. "With fighting having intensified and access to key hunger spots having tightened, a further spread of starvation and hunger was, tragically, the most likely scenario," Wosornu warned. The latest analysis from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) indicates that famine conditions are present in five areas in Sudan. It also projects that five additional locations, all in North Darfur, will be affected by mid-2025, with risk of famine in 17 other areas. Wosornu described the unfolding disaster as "a man-made crisis," adding that Sudan is currently the only place in the world where famine has been confirmed. She stressed that the impacts are not experienced evenly across the Sudanese population, with extreme hunger posing disproportionate risks for women and girls, children and the elderly. "The unprecedented scale of the needs in Sudan demands an unprecedented mobilization of international support," Wosornu said, and appealed for 4.2 billion U.S. dollars of the 2025 Sudan Humanitarian needs and response plan to support nearly 21 million people, with an additional 1.8 billion dollars required for refugees in neighboring countries. Beth Bechdol, deputy director-general of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), said during the briefing that conflict and displacement are the main drivers of food insecurity, "exacerbated by restricted humanitarian access." Almost 90 percent of displaced households across the country are currently unable to afford food. She called for member states to prioritize funding and ensuring "immediate and unimpeded" humanitarian access. YANGON, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar authorities have seized 91 kg of heroin blocks in eastern Myanmar's Shan state, the state-run daily Myanma Alinn reported on Monday. Acting on a tip-off, anti-narcotics police searched a vehicle in Kengtung township in Shan state on Jan. 1, and seized the narcotics, the report said. The confiscated narcotics are worth 1.365 billion kyats (about 650,000 U.S. dollars), and two suspects were arrested for the case, it said. According to the investigation, the drugs were being transported from Kunhing township to Tachileik township in Shan state. The suspects were charged under the country's law, and further investigations are ongoing, it added. "Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." EVERY SO OFTEN, a movie comes around that you just have to see. Last year, that was Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer, which ultimately just about swept its way through awards season (though Martin Scorsese's Killers of the Flower Moon and Greta Gerwig's Barbie were among many other more-than-worthy contenders). 2024 wasn't as filled with universally acclaimed blockbusters (stuff like Gladiator II got a bit of a mixed reception, while Wicked is among those worth your time), but it's not short of epics. 2024's epic that you simply must see is The Brutalist which comes from director and co-writer Brady Corbet. The Brutalist, which is the third feature film directed by Corbet (an actor-turned-director who you may remember from the U.S. remake of Funny Games), is as big in scope as any historical epic you'll ever see; think along the lines of something like There Will Be Blood or The Master, but made all the more impressive due to the fact that it was made with a minuscule budget (comparatively) of just under $10 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The film follows Laszlo Toth (Adrien Brody), a fictional Jewish architect who masters in Brutalist style design, after he escapes from Hungary during the Holocaust/World War II and tries to find a living in the United States of America. While he initially works with his cousin (Alessandro Nivola) at a furniture store, he quickly finds his talent as an artist and architect discovered, as he takes on a series of jobs for a wealthy industrialist (Guy Pearce) and his son (Joe Alwyn), all the while trying to orchestrate the travel of his wife (Felicity Jones) to join him in the United States. At 3 hours and 35 minutesincluding a built-in 15-minute intermissionThe Brutalist is the longest movie to be released theatrically in 2024, and while that's certainly a time investment, the movie flies by; it's paced wonderfully, and the story and character beats are so compelling that it'll be over before you even know it. The film won three Oscars, including Best Actor for Adrien Brody, along with Best Cinematography and Best Original Score (it was also nominated for seven others, including Best Picture and Best Director). The film made a big splash earlier in the year at the Golden Globes, winning Best Picture (Drama), Best Director for Brady Corbet, and Best Actor (Drama) for Brody, marking the start of what was an eventful awards season. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's what else you need to know about The Brutalist, and how you can watch. How can I watch The Brutalist? A24 The Brutalist right now is both playing in theaters (which remains the best way to see this kind of an epic film) and also available to stream at home via PVOD. Shop Now Shop Now Which Oscars is The Brutalist nominated for? CBS Photo Archive - Getty Images The Brutalist won three Oscars, for Best Actor (for Brody), Best Cinematography, and Best Original Score. It was nominated for seven other Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Supporting Actor (for Guy Pearce), Best Supporting Actress (for Felicity Jones), Best Original Screenplay, Best Editing, and Best Production Design. What is The Brutalist about? A24 At 3 hours and 35 minutes, you might think it would be hard to describe succinctly exactly what The Brutalist is aboutbut you'd be wrong. In a nutshell, the movie is about a Hungarian Jewish architect named Laszlo Toth (Adrien Brody), who escapes the horrors of WWII and lands in America with the hopes of building an honest living. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While he begins with a modest life and ambition, happy to be working and alive, he quickly puts his talents on display and finds himself entangled with a client (Joe Alwyn) and his wealthy industrialist father (Guy Pearce) who becomes an even bigger client, all the while working to bring his beloved wife (Felicity Jones) over from Hungary to be with him in America. The movie is, really, that simple. There's an overarching theme throughout it all of art versus commerce, and how one will often need to be sacrificed for the other; the cost of Captitalism on human well-being is also frequently something that comes up throughout the course of the film. But, again, to keep things simple: The Brutalist is a remarkably made movie by director Brady Corbet (whose previous films include The Childhood of a Leader and Vox Lux), who co-wrote the movie with his wife, Mona Fastvold. It's a stunning movie on a visual level, filled with a compelling story and fantastic performances by its impressive cast. You won't regret the ride. When and where will The Brutalist be streaming? A24 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of this moment, you can rent The Brutalist at home. Eventually, since The Brutalist is an A24 release, it will also stream on Max. But given the scope of the movie and just how rare true epics are, this is one we truly recommend trying to see in the theater if you are at all interested and if the movie is playing near you. More than any other movie to be released in 2024, it's an experience, and while its very long, the intermission (which is something we've argued in favor of in the past!) is a delightful breath of fresh air, a way to get your bearings and settle in before the second half of the movie wraps things up. You Might Also Like BOBBLEHEAD DOLLS (40A: Collectible figurines often seen nodding) Well, this answer is timely, because it gives us just enough notice to make sure we celebrate National BOBBLEHEAD Day, which is tomorrow, January 7. When I visited my mom a few weeks ago, her house was decorated for Christmas. One of her decorations was a ceramic BOBBLEHEAD Santa that I had painted when I was about 10 years old. I had forgotten about BOBBLEHEAD Santa! My 10-year-old self thought he was so cool. I wish I'd taken a picture of him to share with you, but sadly I did not. The Night of Power is revered as a sacred night in Islam. Taking place during Ramadan, its a time when devoted Muslims pray, study the Quran and ask for forgiveness from Allah. And, as with any religion, it has been weaponized by some extremists for their own agendas. My husband, an Apache pilot, had recently arrived in Afghanistan, and his unit was briefed that Islamic extremists would likely attack that night, wanting to claim an enormous reward from Allah. At sunrise, 150 insurgents dressed in stolen American uniforms surrounded two bases in Afghanistan. Unfortunately, my husband had just landed on one of those bases from his nighttime mission and was caught in the crosshairs. As the enemy began cutting through the wire, my husband and his co-pilot lifted off again to defend the base. Thats when 15 bullets pierced his aircraft, and a rocket-propelled grenade missed the nose of his aircraft by one foot. He and his co-pilot survived the attack and were unharmed physically, but there are deeper layers that become injured in ways we cannot see. What we werent prepared for as a new military couple was that the effects of a traumatic combat deployment often come home and seep into your marriage. The events on the Night of Power attempted to divide my husband and me as we struggled to process what was happening and how to bring healing. Before my husband went to war, I idolized him, but that began to change when he returned home. Hes an impressive human being with a long list of achievements, so putting him on a pedestal was easy. The thing is, military life is shakey, and you can get the pedestal knocked out from underneath you pretty quickly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When my husband came home from Afghanistan, the military quickly sent us to Ft. Novosel, home of Army Aviation. Why not move two weeks after a traumatic deployment? If you havent been there, Enterprise, Alabama, is a tiny southern town where everyone knows you and calls you sweetie. Theres nowhere to run in a town like that but the local church. So, thats exactly what I did. Thankfully, that move helped save my marriage. As I navigated the difficulties of a new city, a lack of friends, a strained marriage and unemployment, something interesting was about to happen. God began to teach me the unhappiness I was experiencing was a good thing. But how can that be? I thought marriage was about happiness, and mostly mine! However, that belief misses the mark and contributes to our devastatingly high divorce rates. In fact, the military has the highest divorce rate of any profession, double that of civilians. And for those service members who develop PTSD, their divorce rates skyrocket to 60%. The military lifestyle is one of perpetual trials, so we wont always be happy. So, how do we stay married if we find ourselves unhappy? In my 15 years as a military spouse, Ive realized that since God created marriage, we must follow His model if were going to get it right. I tried to make my marriage work for over a decade using my ideas and trying to push my agenda. Not surprisingly, it didnt work well. When I finally got sick of feeling constant resentment and bitterness toward my husband, the military, and all the sacrifices Id endured at the hand of Uncle Sam, I decided to try marriage Gods way. Its counterintuitive, but God tells us to love each other extravagantly and selflessly. He wants us to continuously put the other person first (even when we dont feel like it). So, longing for joy to return to my marriage, I tried it. I created a 40-day challenge to love my husband. And wouldnt you know, even though I was the one loving and serving him, we had the best 40 days of our marriage? It changed our hearts. So much so that my husband decided he didnt want it to end, creating a 40-day challenge for me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately, it took me 10 years to learn to love that way because I was so stuck in the challenges of military life. I was not equipped for multiple deployments, 12 moves, regular solo parenting, financial challenges, and combat trauma. If only someone would have handed me a military marriage manual and said, Heres how you do this well. Thankfully, that exists now! As a writer, I recognized the need for an all-encompassing guide to prepare military spouses from brand new to seasoned. Born out of our military marriage challenges and a desire for others to feel equipped to live out military life, I wrote the book Mission-Ready Marriage: A Christian Guide to Discovering Hope and Purpose as a Military Wife. I believe this book contains exactly what our community needs to begin to feel prepared, seen, and even celebrated! Military spouses make up a mere .0128% of the worlds population. We are finely selected to live out this calling. God has assigned us an incredibly significant purpose in this role, and I cant wait to tell you all about it! Breeders' Cup Classic winner Sierra Leone was back on the work tab Monday morning, covering three furlongs at Florida's Payson Park Training Center in 37.80 seconds. According to bloodhorse.com, the 4-year-old will be targeting the Group 1, $20 million Saudi Cup on Feb. 22. Trainer Chad Brown sent Sierra Leone to Ashford Stud in Versailles, Ky. for a break lasting four weeks, but was pleased to find that the colt hadn't lost too much condition. "Even though we gave him a little bit of freshening, he didn't seem to lose any fitness at all," Brown told bloodhorse.com. "He's settled back into his job well. I was very pleased with his work, actually pleasantly surprised on how fit the horse is. He did that just galloping around there. I was pretty impressed." Sierra Leone won the G2 Risen Star and G1 Blue Grass Stakes en route to the 2024 Kentucky Derby, where he finished second in a three-horse photo. The son of Gun Runner then ran third in the G1 Belmont Stakes, second in the G2 Jim Dandy, and third in the G1 Travers before his impressive late-running score in the Classic. Overall, Sierra Leone's record stands at 4-3-2 from nine starts for earnings of $6,008,000. Other horses potentially targeting the Saudi Cup include: Forever Young, Laurel River, Soul Of An Angel, White Abarrio, Locked, Book'em Danno, Rattle N Roll, and Romantic Warrior. Read more at bloodhorse.com. DENVER (KDVR) For months, a white Australian shepherd could be seen frequenting the streets of Denver, prompting concerned residents to reach out to Denver Animal Protection, which had little success in capturing the slippery canine. The ante was kicked up a notch when people began to notice the dog appeared to have been shot in the face. Then a community came together to finally bring the dog, later named Solo Vino, to the Denver Animal Shelter where he could get the help he needed. Officers looking for answers after dog eats rodent poison in Castle Pines neighborhood Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, seven months after the initial calls to the animal shelter went out, Solo Vino looks and acts like a new dog. You really wouldnt know. Hes perfectly well-adapted, said Jonathan Alesso. Solos owners describe him as being inquisitive and energetic, getting along well with strangers and other dogs (KDVR). Solos owners said he used to be antisocial, and now he enjoys a good pet and licking people who let him get close enough (KDVR). Alesso and James Mikula happened upon Solo Vino after they decided they wanted to foster a dog and felt a connection with Solo. I didnt know his history but he looked like a great match and my heart went out to him, Alesso said. I didnt know he was shot and was, had been a stray. He was a medical foster so he had to wear a cone and muzzle for two months while the fractures in his jaw healed. On top of that, Alesso and Mikula had to give him five medications twice a day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its sad to think about, but really were just focused on getting him better, Mikula said. For the first couple of weeks, Solo mostly kept to himself. He was a little shy. Didnt want to eat much. And didnt want to walk too much either, Alesso said. Reported bear attack in Silverthorne may have been swatting attempt: Sheriffs Office Then, after about three weeks, they started to notice a change. I came home from work or whatever and he had actually wagged his tail for the first time so that was really exciting to tell the shelter staff that, you know, he was showing some happiness, Mikula said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then eventually a medical foster turned into an adoption. We really took to him and he to us and it just felt right, Mikula said. A small scar still remains on Solos snout as a reminder of where he has come from and the hard work everyone put in to make Solos story one with a happy ending. I cant say enough for the team at the Denver Animal Shelter. It was a group effort and it all worked flawlessly and the team there is very reliable, Alesso said. I just encourage anyone, if you see a stray dog in the neighborhood, if you see an injured dog, please contact the shelter. Theyre there to help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. NEW DELHI, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- At least four persons, including two women, died and 29 others were injured when a bus fell into a deep gorge in India's southern state of Kerala on Monday, a local police said. The incident, which took place early in the morning in the Idukki district of the state, is suspected to have been caused by a brake failure in the bus. The bus belonged to the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation. The dead bodies had been recovered from the site and those injured were admitted to a local hospital, said the police. Jan. 6Deputies arrested Nay Moo, 30, for second-degree driving while impaired, driving after revocation and revoked registration after receiving a report of a careless driver at 3:04 p.m. Friday on Minnesota Highway 13 north of Albert Lea. Student reportedly assaulted on bus Deputies received a report at 8:05 a.m. Friday of a student who was reportedly beat up on the school bus Thursday afternoon in Glenville. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 1 injured in crash One person was reportedly transported by helicopter to St. Marys Hospital in Rochester after a crash at 1:15 p.m. Friday at 28331 Mower-Freeborn Road in Austin. 1 cited for theft Deputies cited Zachary Edward Onken, 20, for theft at 9:37 p.m. Sunday at 18271 Mower-Freeborn Road. 1 arrested for trespassing Police arrested Bashir Mohamud Abu, 28, for trespassing at 12:13 a.m. Friday at 820 Happy Trails Lane. 1 cited for theft Police cited Korean Marie Olson, 46, for misdemeanor theft at 5:19 p.m. Friday at Walmart, 1550 Blake Ave. She was trespassed from the store. 1 arrested on A&D hold Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police arrested Jordan Tanner Cornelius, 24, on an arrest and detain hold after receiving a report at 1:10 a.m. Saturday that an upstairs neighbor came downstairs with a shotgun and was yelling about a noise complaint and then went upstairs. Hit-and-run reported Police received a report of a hit-and-run crash at 11:23 a.m. Sunday at 701 Lake Chapeau Drive. Theft reported Police received a report of a theft at 11:56 a.m. Sunday at 1550 Blake Ave. The theft reportedly occurred Dec. 20 and involved one male and one female. Storage units broken into Four storage units were reported tampered with at 4 p.m. Sunday at 401 Pilot St. A lock was cut off of at least one unit and several thousand dollars of items missing were reported. Backpack stolen from cart Police received a report at 5:57 p.m. Sunday of a backpack that was stolen from a cart of a shopper at 1550 Blake Ave. One person died and another was injured over the weekend after a group of skiers triggered an avalanche near Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, according to a statement posted on social media by Teton County Search & Rescue on Sunday. Teton County Search & Rescue was called to respond to an avalanche burial on Togwotee Pass just before noon on Saturday, the statement said, adding that responders were at first unclear if the incident involved snowmobilers or skiers. Initial reports indicated that a group of four was in the Breccia Cliffs area of the Tetons when they triggered the avalanche. PHOTO: Grand Teton National Park Exteriors And Landmarks - 2021 (Aaronp/bauer-griffin/GC Images) "As TCSAR mobilized, the team learned that it was a party of four skiers who'd triggered the slide as they were ascending a skin track," the statement said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The avalanche partially buried one skier and fully buried another," it continued. TCSAR noted that the partially buried skier sustained a lower leg injury. Neither of the victims have been identified as of Sunday night, nor have any other members of their ski party. MORE: Swiss Olympic snowboarder Sophie Hediger killed in avalanche "A team of skiers approached the area on skins," the statement said, nodding to the difficulty of the environment by describing an accessory that helps climbers on backcountry slopes. They reached the scene at approximately 3:47 p.m., nearly four hours after the emergency alert went out, according to TCSAR. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They began to apply treatment to the injured skier and remaining members of the party," the statement continued. "The volunteers also worked to begin recovering the deceased skier for transport out of the backcountry." The volunteers worked into the evening, transporting the injured skier to safety in a "litter," or a rescue basket, according to TCSAR. He was brought to a waiting ambulance from Grand Teton National Park, the operational unit reported. The team also skied the deceased individual out using a Sked, which is a type of stretcher utilized by emergency responders. PHOTO: European Youth Olympics Winter Festival 2017 in Erzurum (Anadolu/Getty Images) TCSAR responded with teams in the helicopter, on snowmobiles and on skis, it reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, weather conditions prevented the air response team from reaching the site, and it had to return to its base. "The snowmobile team was also unable to reach the party of skiers due to the challenging conditions," the statement read. MORE: 5 skiers hospitalized in chairlift malfunction at Lake Tahoe winter resort Extending its condolences to the family and friends of the victim, TCSAR noted that the tragic incident highlighted several insights that could help protect anyone involved in future accidents on the snowy mountains. "This serves as an important reminder of how much longer a mission can take when the helicopter is grounded," its statement said, calling the immediate availability of such resources "another factor to consider in your backcountry planning should an accident occur." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TCSAR also urged the public to "please include the nature of your emergency, mechanism of injury, and number of people in your party" in any emergency alerts. "Including that info can help first responders efficiently develop solutions to the problems," the statement explained. An investigation into the incident is underway by the Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center, according to TCSAR. 1 dead, 1 injured after ski group triggers avalanche in Wyoming originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Thirteen suspected criminals are on the loose in Zambia after a tipsy detective unlocked jail cells on New Year's Eve and told inmates they were free to go, police said Friday. The detective "in a state of intoxication, forcibly seized cell keys" from Constable Serah Banda and "unlocked both the male and female cells and instructed the suspects to leave, stating they were free to cross over into the New Year", a police statement said. All but two of the 15 suspects in the jail at the time escaped when the cells were opened on the morning of December 31. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The suspects remain fugitives," police spokesman Rae Hamoonga told AFP Friday. "Many of the suspects face charges for serious crimes, including assault, theft, and burglary. Allowing them to remain at large may pose a significant risk to public safety," he said. The detective fled the scene but was arrested soon afterwards. "The Zambia Police Service has intensified efforts to locate and apprehend the escapees," police said in a statement. "We urge members of the public with any information that may assist in locating the suspects to report to the nearest police station." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Monday, police had not provided any update on the escaped inmates. Massive winter storm expected to bring heavy snow, ice, cold to 25 states How Oakland's Creative Growth enabled generations of artists Rise and shine with sunrise photographer Bugsy Sailor OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) 2025 will mark the 30th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing. We remember and honor those 168 who lost their lives on April 19, 1995, when a bomb went off in front of the Murrah building in downtown Oklahoma City. 168 Days to remember those lost in the OKC bombing: Sheila R. Gigger-Driver and baby Gregory N. Driver II. Image courtesy Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum. We want to remember Sheila R. Gigger-Driver and baby Gregory N. Driver II, while honoring those who survived and thanking those changed forever. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CROCKETT, Texas (KETK) The Crockett Police Department said that an 18-year-old was arrested on Wednesday after he allegedly crashed into two utility poles in an SUV that was reported stolen. 6 injured after Highway 69 motorcycle, vehicle crashes in Angelina County Crockett PD said some of their night patrol officers reported hearing a loud crash on E Clark Avenue at around 5:50 a.m. and then they reportedly saw a white SUV driving away from that area and hitting a trash can. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Crockett PD, the officers started pursuing the SUV after the driver refused to pull over for a traffic stop. The SUV eventually lost control and reportedly crashed into a utility pole on E Bonham Avenue. The driver then allegedly got out of the SUV and fled from the officers for about a block until officers were able to arrest him, a Crockett PD press release said. Jonathan Zuckero, 18 of Crockett, was identified by Crockett PD as the driver of the SUV. During his arrest officers allegedly found Xanax not prescribed to Zuckero and a handgun inside the SUV. Jonathan Zuckero, 18 of Crockett. Photo courtesy of Crockett PD Later, Crockett PD said they learned that the SUV was reportedly stolen from a local business earlier that night. Crockett PD said the initial loud noise heard on E Clark Avenue was also from the SUV hitting a utility pole. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zuckero was taken to the Houston County Jail and has been charged with duty of striking structure, fixture or highway landscaping, unlawful carrying of a weapon, possesion of a controlled substance, unauthorized use of a vehicle and evading arrest with a vehicle. Crockett PD added that Zuckero was also charged with burglary of a vehicle after officers reportedly reviewed surveillance video from that night which they said showed Zuckero taking items from a vehicle on S 10th St. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. As Ukraine and Europe enter 2025 with a worsening situation on the battlefield and the incoming Trump administration hoping to quickly reach some kind of peace in Russias all-out war, the first months of the year look to be fundamental in deciding the outcome of the war. While much will be decided on the battlefield, the race is on for Western countries to come together and find the strongest and most united position in Ukraine, but many of the biggest players continue to hold back. Since Trumps re-election, discussions have been reported between several countries on the topic of braver support for Ukraine, including placing foreign troops inside Ukrainian territory; though no public decisions have been made. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not long after Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna called for the West to look into boots on the ground options of securing Ukrainian-controlled territory from a repeat Russian invasion after a peace deal, the Kyiv Independent spoke to the minister in Tallinn. This conversation is part of a series of interviews with decision-makers in the Nordic and Baltic countries conducted during the European screening tour of the Kyiv Independents documentary film Can You Hear Me? The invisible battles of Ukrainian military medics. Editors note: The transcript of this interview has been edited for length and clarity. The Kyiv Independent: From the Estonian perspective, how decisive is this moment in time for Ukraine and the next few months for Ukraine and for the security of Europe as a whole? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Margus Tsahkna: On Feb. 24 (2022), (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's plan was to take over (Kyiv) within a couple of days, and he did not succeed. We have to remember that Ukraine has been very successful. We always talk about how now peace must be done and wrap it up, and also that Ukraine is in a bad position. But, actually, Ukraine has been able to fight back. Europe has been waking up. I was the defense minister in 2016-17, and I see the total difference in Europe (compared to then). We have realized two things. One is that Russia is an aggressive country and it will remain a threat for Europe, not only for Ukraine. Secondly, that we can fight back. It is very important that this change of mentality is there. And now, of course, the situation is very complicated, there are more and more talks about peace. But what is the meaning of peace? Who is winning? Who is losing? Of course, Putin is putting the narrative very actively on the table that he's winning, he's gaining more territories. For Ukraine, it's really, really complicated to fight back, we understand this. From an Estonian perspective, we advocate and we ask everybody to give more, especially in defense and military support. Honestly, we all want peace, most Ukrainians want peace. But the peace must be just and long-lasting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One thing we don't see is actually Putin wanting peace. You cannot weaken your positions by talking about peace when the other side is actually committing this aggression, and not showing any willingness to change the goal. The goal for Putin was not to gain more territories. The goal was actually to take down the Ukrainian democratic government he has said publicly that such a nation as Ukraine does not exist. This is the goal, and I don't see that it has changed at all. So I'm advocating to our allies publicly that we need to understand that any kind of ceasefire is not peace. Any kind of peace without security guarantees is not actually peace. And there cannot be a peace process without Ukraine, it's impossible. "President Trump is interested in a weak ceasefire because then Russia will remain a threat." We need to make Ukraine's position stronger. Of course, there is a player entering now in the middle of January to the White House, (U.S. President-elect) Donald Trump. He is listening pretty carefully to what we have said and what we are saying, meeting different leaders of European countries. We just need to put the arguments on the table because I dont think that President Trump is interested in a weak ceasefire because then Russia will remain a threat. A woman holds a sign saying "Trump will end the Ukraine war" at the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S. on July 17, 2024. (Patrick T. Fallon /AFP via Getty Images) The Kyiv Independent: In your discussions with partners, how close are we, do you think, to a real unified understanding that peace must come with hard deterrence against a repeat invasion? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Margus Tsahkna: I see the change that countries understand that Russia will remain a threat to Europe, it's there. More and more, different nations and governments are talking about what more we can do. We have increased our defense investments. Not all of us, mainly the bordering (with Russia) countries and the Nordic countries. But still, too many countries are thinking that maybe business as usual can come back, that let's have peace and maybe normal life will return. It will not. We have also seen that for countries neighboring Russia, a neutral position is just a green light for Putin. And we need to understand as well that Putin is not a leader of the country who is taking care of his nation. He has built up a regime of terror, of fear, around the idea of restoring the empire. He is an old man, and he knows that he is fighting for his life. So it is not so easy for him to stop this war machine he has built up. It is based on fear in their own society. It is based on a war economy. The war is the basic core his power is relying on. It is not easy anymore to stop it without using force or without fighting against this aggression. And Ukrainians, you are doing that. Not us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Kyiv Independent: Just recently, weve seen top Russian representatives say that there will be no freezing of the conflict. Do you think that we should take what they're saying at face value, that they simply do not plan to stop? Or are they positioning themselves for negotiations with the highest possible demands? Margus Tsahkna: Of course, Russia is positioning. Putin is afraid of President Trump's incoming administration, and Russia is not so secure on the resources front. North Korean troops are there, of course, but Russia also is relying on North Korean ammunition, Iranian drones, and economic support from China. With this talk, they are trying to strengthen their position. But we don't have to believe that. This peace and just peace will be made on the battlefield, so we need to focus on how we can make Ukraines position stronger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If President (Volodymyr) Zelensky feels that all the Western partners are just pushing him to a peace deal, it's not a very strong position. I totally agree with the European Unions high representative of foreign policy (former Estonian Prime Minister) Kaja Kallas, who said we shouldnt push Ukraine to peace talks if we see that Putin has not changed his goal. The Kyiv Independent: Zelensky has said in several interviews that Ukraine would be ready to stop the war on their side if it was in exchange for NATO membership, but this is firmly opposed by some of the biggest players in NATO. Does Estonia agree that NATO membership is the only option, and if there are other options, what could they be? Margus Tsahkna: The main question is that if there is a post-war situation, how can we give Ukraine solid security guarantees? With Putin, we know that these must be military security guarantees. We had the Minsk agreements, and Ukraine signed security guarantees in 1994 (Budapest Memorandum), and they were not security guarantees. From an Estonian perspective, we are not only talking about Ukraine: We are talking about the European, regional security guarantees, and Ukraine is part of that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What are these security guarantees in real life? Are they peacekeeping missions, military missions? Our point is very clear: NATO membership for Ukraine is the most secure, most clear, most efficient, and cheapest way to give real security guarantees. Any other structure is much more complicated. "NATO membership for Ukraine is the most secure, most clear, most efficient, and cheapest way to give real security guarantees." We have examples from the past as West Germany was taken into NATO when the East part was actually occupied. It's a matter of political will. But the honest thing is as well, we don't exactly know President Trumps position, and what the official plan will be. So we need to use this time first to support Ukraine because we are not only securing the situation in Ukraine, we are securing Europe. We are in a year like 1938 in Europe, just before the Munich meeting when Prime Minister (Neville) Chamberlain went back to Great Britain and showed the white paper and said now the peace is here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We can go back home and say that we brought peace, but if it is a Chamberlain peace, it will be the start of more and more aggression. Now, we have every opportunity to avoid everything that came after 1938: World War II. This is not only about Europe, it is about the world order. The UN Charter is meant to uphold this order, and if it doesn't work, if it's not able now to support Ukraine and forge the kind of peace that is just and long-lasting, then this system may collapse, and it affects everybody. French soldiers of the NATO combat unit in Estonia stand in front of a combat vehicle in a military hangar in Tapa, Estonia, on Dec. 17, 2024. (Alexander Welscher / Picture alliance via Getty Images) The Kyiv Independent: You have made headlines a few times by being the first major high-level state representative to openly call for the boots-on-the-ground idea to be looked at seriously. Could you share something about how you imagine that working, especially if Russia is interested in invading again? Margus Tsahkna: Of course, it is unclear, because what we are witnessing right now is full aggression. Russia is more aggressive than at any time during the last two and a half years, especially now with the North Korean troops there. This makes this conflict or this aggression totally different already on the political and global level. The other thing is that there are no peace talks right now, we don't see that Putin would like to have any kind of peace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It's very hard to imagine what kind of security guarantees without NATO membership can be there, but there must be a real backup system for the deal, whatever it ends up being. This is the right time to discuss readiness, what one country or another is ready to do. Of course, this cannot be done without the U.S., without the big countries, but it's too early to share because it's just in the beginning and we have many preconditions that are not there yet. The Kyiv Independent: Is there a scenario where European countries, those who have the same clarity as Estonia, Poland, and others, are compelled to take maybe braver steps even without the US? Margus Tsahkna: I understand your concern. I was defense minister when Trump first entered the White House, and there was a lot of speculation about what would happen. In the end, we gained more troops on the ground, more military and financial support because of the regional security situation. The honest answer is, we don't know yet what will be Trump's plan or proposition. We're using this time to explain, to put arguments on the table. This is not an isolated problem. It is all connected. It's all connected with Iran, with China. China will probably be at the center of President Trump's foreign policy. So this is all connected. Many people have said many things during their political campaigns, but what counts is what will really happen. I'm not going to speculate about what could be with or without the U.S. Our security in Europe is connected to the U.S. and the other way around, our economies are very much connected. This is a global square, and Ukraine is playing a very crucial role, so let's do things in the right order. Our duty, as well as that of Ukraines leaders, is to explain. The Kyiv Independent: You mention that the most important thing is improving Ukraine's position on the battlefield. But from the Ukrainian perspective, the feeling is that the status quo is not working, especially because Ukraine's ability to stay in the war is also limited by manpower. Are there other asymmetrical political measures that braver European countries could take to show Putin that the West does not plan in any way to abandon Ukraine? Margus Tsahkna: We have had (French) President (Emmanuel) Macrons initiatives (floating the idea of French troops in Ukraine). These opportunities are all there: for example, training missions and many other things. But I believe the most sustainable for the long run idea is to invest heavily in Ukraine, in its defense industry, technological capabilities, and so on. We need to give what Ukrainians are asking for, and Ukraine is not asking for boots on the ground to go to the battlefield, because maybe it's not even a smart idea. These are complicated times. We have elections in Germany, we have President Trump entering the White House with all the rhetoric that we have heard. Of course, Putin is using this opportunity, because he has only one voice, but we have many different voices. I cannot even personally imagine the situation that you as a nation and those people on the front are going through. It's hard for us Estonians to come back so often from different meetings with no decisions, then meeting our Ukrainian friends and explaining that, yes, we want to do more, but somehow we are not able to. If we had given everything that we have within the last two and a half years straight away, Russia would already have been pushed back to Russia. There is fear in the Western part of the world about what happens if Putin loses. I remember once the same fear, of what if the Soviet Union collapses. This fear of Putin's collapse is actually stopping many, many decisions. We need to keep pushing. The Kyiv Independent: If they are afraid of Russia losing, do you think something needs to get much worse before the West sees the threat of Ukraine losing, to finally make that final step to wake up? Margus Tsahkna: We have witnessed from the past what happens if Putin has an opportunity to continue, and he will continue anyway. I really hope that we don't need the years 1940, 1941, 1942, 1943 to finally understand that we could have a different situation. That's why I'm bringing this parallel with the Munich meeting in 1938. But I'm actually more positive that we can support Ukraine based on the understanding that Ukrainians are not fighting only for themselves and for us, but instead of us. I can say it as a former defense minister, because we saw in 2016-17, on the other side of our borders, 120,000 troops ready to go within 48 hours. These troops do not exist anymore. They were sent to Ukraine. They are dead. So that's why I'm saying that you are fighting instead of us, and this knowledge is finally pretty widespread. Stay warm with Ukrainian traditions this winter. Shop our seasonal merch collection. Star shop now Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. NEW YORK (AP) Two pharmaceutical companies based in India were charged Monday with smuggling chemicals used in the production of the deadly drug fentanyl, federal prosecutors in New York announced. Raxuter Chemicals and Athos Chemicals were charged in separate indictments with criminal conspiracy to distribute and import chemicals into the U.S., Mexico and elsewhere knowing they would be used to manufacture the synthetic opioid, according to U.S. District Attorney for the Eastern District of New York Breon Peace's office. Bhavesh Lathiya, a founder and senior executive of Raxuter Chemicals, was also indicted on similar charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 36-year-old executive, who also goes by Bhavesh Patel and Bhavesh Bhai," was arrested Saturday in New York City and ordered detained at his arraignment in Brooklyn federal court, prosecutors said. His public defender declined to comment Monday. Representatives for the two companies didn't immediately respond to emails seeking comment about the indictments. Lathiya previously worked at Athos as a director until 2022 before leaving to start Raxuter, according to Peaces office. Prosecutors say the companies, both located in Surat, a city in the Indian state of Gujarat, smuggled into the U.S. and Mexico all the materials necessary for the manufacture of fentanyl, which federal authorities say is approximately 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The companies employed deceptive and fraudulent practices to avoid detection, such as mislabeling packages, falsifying customs forms and making false declarations at border crossings, prosecutors said. One such package sent to New York City last June by Raxuter Chemicals had a false manifest listing its contents as Vitamin C, they said. In another instance, Lathiya's company purposefully mislabeled another fentanyl chemical as an antacid, according to prosecutors. Prosecutors said the violent Sinaloa Cartel and other Mexican drug trafficking groups use chemicals such as those shipped by the two companies to produce the highly addictive drug on a massive scale in their clandestine laboratories. We made a promise that the Justice Department would never forget the victims of the fentanyl epidemic, and that we would never stop working to hold accountable those who bear responsibility for it that is what we have done, and that is what we will continue to do, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement announcing the indictments. Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-S.C.) said Sunday that the vote certification process will be peaceful on Monday the fourth anniversary of the deadly Jan. 6, 2021, Capital insurrection. Their remarks come four years after President-elect Donald Trumps false claim that the 2020 election was stolen from him, prompting MAGA supporters and election deniers to violently occupy the Capital and disrupt the vote count. But on Monday, there will be another vote certification this time for the 2024 election Vice President Kamala Harris lost to Trump. Harris will lead the operation, which is standard practice for the sitting VP. Notably, though, Harris and Democrats have not baselessly claimed the election was stolen like their opponents did in the previous presidential election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is a very unnerving moment. I do not believe we will have a repeat of that, Clyburn said on MSNBCs Inside with Jen Psaki on Sunday. We will have a vice president presiding on tomorrow who believes in the peaceful transition of the office, and she will preside over her own defeat, Clyburn continued. I hope the American people will take time out to watch this tomorrow and hopefully have their faith in this great country renewed. In a Sunday interview on NBC News Meet the Press with moderator Kristen Welker, Schiff acknowledged that Mondays vote will likely be quite an emotional experience for those in Congress who were present when the 2021 attack took place. While he believes that Monday will represent a peaceful transfer of power, Schiff, who was a member of the Jan. 6 committee, warned against Trump pardoning the slew of individuals who participated in his insurrection a move he said hed make on his first day back in office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If [Trump] goes forward with pardoning vast numbers of people involved in that violence, he will begin his new administration the way he ended his last administration, and that is by celebrating violence against our democracy, Schiff said. I think it would be a terrible start send a terrible message about our democracy, about lawlessness, about people who attacked police officers. Exactly the wrong message and the wrong way to start out an administration. Online and on the campaign trail, the president-elect has been vocal about using his presidential power to move forward with a vendetta against his political opponents, including members of the Jan. 6 committee. Despite this, Schiff said he isnt sure that Trump is serious about coming after the committee. All of us on the committee, I think, are very proud of the work that we did. We stand behind it, Schiff said. Who knows what the president means? I guess well find out. But we stand behind our work. Critics of Trump have called on Biden to preemptively pardon the committee members before Trump assumes office later this month. Schiff, however, is against the move. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The concern that I have, which is what I conveyed, is the precedent that it would set that you have an outgoing president giving a broad group of pardons to members of his party or others because I think the precedent could be abused, Schiff said. Now, people have rightly pointed out, Donald Trump may abuse that precedent regardless. But the idea that each administration hereafter gives broad pardons to people who have worked in the administration or aligned with the administration, I dont think thats a road we want to go down. Related... U.S. Rep Glenn "GT" Thompson, and state and local officials, cut the blue ribbon, officially opening the 2025 PA Farm Show in Harrisburg Jan. 5, 2025 (Commonwealth Media Services photo) Standing inside the Maclay Street Lobby entrance of the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex on a frigid Saturday morning, leaders in the states agriculture community cut the ceremonial ribbon signaling the opening of the 109th Pennsylvania Farm Show. This is a show that showcases Pennsylvania, really Americas number one industry, said U.S. Rep. Glenn GT Thompson (R-15th District), chair of the U.S. House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee. The industry that provides us most of the things that are essential in our lives. Food and fiber, building materials, energy resources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And what an exciting time, he added. The Pennsylvania Farm Show is the largest indoor agricultural event in the country. The 2025 Farm Show features thousands of competitive agricultural events, more than 1 million square feet of hands-on agriculture education opportunities, a food court, and a 1,000-pound butter sculpture. The 2025 PA Farm Show is underway in Harrisburg (Commonwealth Media Services photo) Speakers on Saturday morning emphasized the theme of the 109th Farm Show, Powering Pennsylvania. AG is a huge part of our culture and our history and our way of life, but its also the foundation of our economy, said Pennsylvania Community and Economic Development Secretary Rick Siger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Siger said that the agricultural industry provides for nearly 600,000 jobs in Pennsylvania, meaning one in every 10 jobs is related to agriculture, according to pa.gov. Its an entire ecosystem, one that contributes more than $130 billion annually to our Commonwealth economy, Siger said. Siger noted that Gov. Josh Shapiro listed agriculture as one of his administrations top priorities in his 10 year economic development plan. Speaking to the Capital-Star following the ceremonial ribbon cutting, Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding described the current state of the agriculture community in Pennsylvania as: its diverse, its strong, its growing, its fragile. Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding spoke ahead of the opening of the 2025 PA Farm Show (Commonwealth Media Services photo) Theres a lot of things that weve learned over the last year with weather, particularly on droughts and some of the flood sort of damage and issues, Redding told the Capital-Star. You look forward, you see a lot of change coming around immigration and tariffs and environmental stuff that all of that is the fragile part. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Dec. 21, President Joe Biden signed a $100 billion disaster package, which included an extension of the Farm Bill, that was passed by Congress. Redding said that was really important to Pennsylvania. Thompson, who will play a prominent role in agriculture issues in the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump, struck an optimistic tone in an interview with the Capital-Star, lauding Brooke Rollins, Trumps nominee to head the U.S. Department of Agriculture. I will say, based on my knowledge and information, not only shell be a great individual to work with as secretary, but she will be the Cabinet member thats closest to President Trump, and that speaks well for agriculture, Thompson said. Rollins worked in the White House as the domestic policy advisor during Trumps first term and led the pro-Trump America First Policy Institute over the past four years, Thompson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So shes got a great relationship with the President, Thompson said. So between that and my relationship with the President, Im excited about the future of agriculture. U.S. Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.), a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, also told the Capital-Star on Saturday that he expects to support Rollins nomination, despite differences they may have on some issues. Fetterman said that protecting funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) would be his priority for the upcoming Farm Bill. Redding told the Capital-Star that hes thankful that a one year extension of the Farm Bill was granted in late December and laid out a number of things hed like to see as priorities in the legislation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Number one is to make sure that both the food and nutrition stay united with our production policy, meaning that there are folks who want to sort of bifurcate the food nutrition from some of the farm policy stuff. We really believe that they have to keep them together, Redding said. Two: food and food insecurity issues are growing, not shrinking, so we cant have a federal farm bill that shrinks the food programs like our SNAP and our emergency food assistance and all of that, Redding added. Redding also cited research and rural development concerns as important. The 2025 Pennsylvania Farm Show will run through Saturday, January 11 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center in Harrisburg. Parking is $15 per vehicle, although admission to the Pennsylvania Farm Show is free. A schedule of events and more information about the 2025 Pennsylvania Farm Show can be found at Farmshow.pa.gov. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul (R) attends a joint press conference with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Seoul, South Korea, Jan. 6, 2025. Top diplomats of South Korea and the United States held talks in Seoul Monday to reaffirm their alliance following the impeachment of South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol. (NEWSIS via Xinhua) SEOUL, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's joint investigation unit said Monday that it has sought the extension of the arrest warrant for the impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol over his short-lived martial law imposition. The investigation unit, composed of the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), the National Office of Investigation (NOI) of the Korean National Police Agency and the defense ministry's investigative headquarters, said in a notice that it requested the Seoul Western District Court to extend the arrest warrant against Yoon, which was issued by the same court on Dec. 31 last year. The extension request came after a botched attempt to detain Yoon last week. The CIO investigators and police officers attempted to arrest the impeached president in the presidential residence on Jan. 3, but it failed as the presidential security service blocked the execution of the arrest warrant set to expire at midnight Monday. The impeachment motion against Yoon was passed in the National Assembly on Dec. 14 last year and was delivered to the constitutional court to deliberate it for up to 180 days, during which Yoon's presidential power is suspended. Yoon, who was named by investigative agencies as a suspected ringleader on an insurrection charge, declared martial law on the night of Dec. 3, but it was revoked by the National Assembly hours later. UPDATE: The Rock Island County Integrity Task Force has submitted the investigative case file to the Rock Island County States Attorney for review after a 21-year-old man was shot and killed by a police officer after a January 5 traffic stop. Police say Jakarta Jackson took off during the stop and dragged a police officer with a car. Brett Taylor was identified by the Rock Island Police Department as the officer who shot Jackson, prompting the task force to conduct an external investigation in the use of deadly force. An autopsy was performed in Rockford and the cause of death was multiple gunshot wounds. Rock Island County Integrity Task Force Public Information Officer Darren Gault said in a news release Friday that the task force worked diligently to gather all the information and evidence possible to ensure a complete and thorough investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here is the full statement from the Integrity Task Force: On January 5, 2025 the Rock Island County Integrity Task Force (ITF) was activated at the request of the Rock Island Police Department Chief Tim McCloud to respond to an officer involved shooting. The Integrity Task Force conducted an investigation into the officer involved shooting of Jakarta A. Jackson. Today, January 17, 2025, the investigative case file was submitted to the Rock Island County States Attorney for review. We want to thank the public for their patience as the Integrity Task Force worked diligently to gather all the information and evidence possible to ensure a complete and thorough investigation. This work included gathering physical evidence, interviewing witnesses inside the vehicle, reviewing video evidence, and canvasing the area near the scene of the incident at 12th Street and 24th Avenue, Rock Island, IL. State law requires an outside agency or task force to investigate an officer involved shooting. The ITF is led by the Illinois State Police and is comprised of detectives from several law enforcement agencies. The ITF is handling the investigation and no Rock Island Police officer participated in the criminal investigation. The Rock Island Police Department has both in-car video and body camera video. This video is being reviewed by the Rock Island County States Attorney Dora Villarreal along with additional investigative material. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This concludes press updates from the Integrity Task Force. Further press releases regarding this case will be handled by the Rock Island County States Attorney. EARLIER UPDATE: The Rock Island Police Department released the name of the officer involved in the January 5 shooting of Jakarta Jackson in a news release. The officer has been identified as Officer Brett Taylor, who has worked for the Rock Island Police Department since November 2021. Officer Taylor is on administrative leave, per department protocol. The Rock Island County Integrity Task Force is conducting an external investigation in the officers use of deadly force. Once that investigation is completed, the Rock Island Police Departments Office of Professional Standards will conduct an internal investigation into any violations of department policy or procedure. Anyone with information about this case should contact the Rock Island County Integrity Task Force at (309) 752-4915, ext. 4935. Officer Brett Taylor (Rock Island Police Department) EARLIER UPDATE: According to a news release from the Illinois State Police, on January 5, the Rock Island Police Department (RIPD) requested the Rock Island County Integrity Task Force (RICITF) investigate the shooting of a man by a police officer that occurred near 12th Street and 24th Avenue in Rock Island. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RICITF continues to investigate the incident, including reviewing video from police in-car and body worn cameras. Once the investigation is complete, the case will be turned over to the Rock Island County States Attorneys Office, which will make a final determination. A thorough investigation can take time and premature release of the video or other information without consultation with and authorization from the States Attorneys Office could compromise the case. Illinois State Police EARLIER UPDATE: According to Rock Island County Coroner Brian Gustafson, the dead man has been identified as Jakarta Jackson, 21, of Rock Island. Earlier information said Jackson was 22. An autopsy was performed in Rockford today and the cause of death was multiple gunshot wounds. The incident is still under investigation by the Rock Island County Integrity Task Force and the Rock Island County Coroners office. EARLIER UPDATE: A 22-year-old man is dead after police say he took off during a stop and dragged a police officer with a car on Sunday. Rock Island County Coroner Brian Gustafson told Our Quad Cities News on Sunday night an autopsy is tentatively scheduled for Monday. The identity of the man had not been released as of 8:15 p.m. Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Rock Island County Integrity Task Force has been called to investigate the incident, he said. The task force was created by intergovernmental agreement among Illinois Quad-Cities police executives to investigate matters of integrity by law enforcement when requested by member agencies. The incident Sunday afternoon According to a news release from Rock Island Police, about 3:20 p.m. Sunday an officer with the Rock Island Police Department tried to stop what officers called a suspicious person in the area of 12th Street and 24th Avenue. Preliminary information indicates that, as the officer approached, the man took off running and tried to get away by entering the drivers door of a running vehicle. As the officer tried to get him out of the car, the suspect drove forward, dragging the officer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The officer then fired his gun and hit the suspect. The suspect and the officer were transported to Quad Cities hospitals where the suspect succumbed to injuries. The officer was treated and released. Chief of Police Tim McCloud immediately requested activation of the Rock Island County Integrity Task Force to conduct an external investigation about the officers use of deadly force. The involved officer has been placed on administrative leave per standard department protocol. As of 8:15 p.m. Sunday, the identities of the involved officer and the suspect are not being released. Police ask anyone with information about the case to contact the Rock Island County Integrity Task Force at 309-752-4915, extension 4935; Rock Island Police Department at 309-732-2677; or Crime Stoppers at 309-762-9500. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EARLIER: Police officers, including Rock Island Police Chief Tim McCloud and Deputy Chief of Police James Morris, are investigating an area at 12th Street and 24th Avenue in Rock Island, just down the hill from Rock Island High School. (Linda Cook, OurQuadCities.com) Crime scene tape has been established around a car with its doors open. (Linda Cook, OurQuadCities.com) This is a developing story. Stay tuned to Local 4, Fox 18 and OurQuadCities.com for updates. Got a news tip? Forward it to Our Quad Cities News on Twitter or Facebook or download our app on your iPhone or Android phone. Rock Island Police, including Chief Tim McCloud and Deputy Chief of Police James Morris, investigate a crime scene Sunday night. (Bryan Bobb, OurQuadCities.com) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Fly-on-the-wall series 24 Hours in Police Custody (Channel 4) has been reporting on the work of Bedfordshire Police since 2014. Its gripping, depressing snapshots of law enforcement question the need for all those cliffhangers and twists stuffed into police procedurals and true-crime podcasts. Theres nothing so joltingly dramatic as the real thing. This 75th episode does something new. It travels to Albania, where the drug gangs come from. Eight Albanians with previous convictions rioted and escaped from Yarls Wood immigration removal centre in 2023. This is partly the painstaking story of their return to custody. It is also something else: a level-headed glimpse into the world of illegal immigration. The heat always rises when people smuggling comes up, but here a steady course is steered in neither decriminalising the eight suspects nor dehumanising them. Im not criminal, Im not nothing, pleads one when re-apprehended. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his contorted syntax lurks a truth that the programme explores further in its visit to Tirana. The younger the Albanian, the more starry-eyed he is about escaping poverty for a gold-paved England as sold to them by TikTok and organised crime. England will give you a chance, enthuses a spotty teenager. In England for us, its just like catching butterflies. The mechanics of the smuggling industry are barely discussed, being more the brief of Kent Police. Instead, the focus is on the reality of indentured marijuana farming, done to pay off the traffickers. The debt isnt written off after the Home Office catches up with them. The manhunt reveals how the escapees are re-absorbed into a nationwide Albanian network, but soon spewed out to fend for themselves the moment the police start raiding. All eight men, some more disingenuous in interview than others, ended up being sentenced for between five years and five months. The programme fetches up back in Tirana, where a repatriated asylum seeker wishes hed never left. England is not the place which everyone fantasises about, he says. It doesnt bring out the best that we can show as Albanians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Perhaps the Starmer government should ask Channel 4 to donate a copy to Albanian TV. Rather than target the seller, target the buyer. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. EAST HARTFORD Conn. (WTNH) A 5K to honor a fallen police officer returned to East Hartford Sunday morning with the Snow Dash 5k Road Race. Hundreds of runners gathered at the Langford School on Alps Drive to commemorate 26-year-old Officer Brian A. Aselton who was killed in the line of duty in January 1999. Police say Aselton interrupted a home invasion, saving a tenants life, and was shot and killed during a struggle with one of the suspects. The towns Snow Dash 5k Road Race has been held in his name every year since. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Good samaritan rescues motorist from burning vehicle 26 years have passed and to still have over 200 runners come out and run in his support, the family and the police department, its tremendous. said Jonathan Cooper, supervisor for East Hartford Recreation. It just shows when something does devastate a community, that it does bring people together and its unfortunate that it is through sadness and loss but it does show the resiliency of a community. Proceeds from the race benefit the East Hartford Police Department Child Safety and Crime Prevention Program and the Officer Brian A. Aselton Memorial Scholarship Fund. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A total of 3,800 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded by Ukrainian forces in Russia's Kursk Oblast, President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview with American podcaster Lex Fridman published on Jan. 5. Pyongyang sent upwards of 12,000 North Korean soldiers into Kursk Oblast in the fall of 2024, amid an agreement to help counter a surprise Ukrainian incursion into the region which began on Aug. 6. Ukrainian forces have been fighting to hold onto territory in the region ever since in hopes it can be used as a bargaining chip in future negotiations with Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelensky, in his wide-ranging interview with Lex Fridman, added that Pyongyang has the capabilities to bring additional North Korean troops to the front, as many as 30,000 -40,000 troops. Ukraine reportedly ramped up its operations in Kursk Oblast with a new offensive on Jan. 5, with mixed reports surfacing on outcome of the renewed push from Kyiv. The renewed offensive comes amid significant losses among Russian and North Korean forces during recent clashes, Zelensky said in his evening address on Jan. 4, citing information from Ukraine's top commander. White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said on Dec. 27 that North Korean units had been carrying out "human wave" attacks against Ukrainian positions in Kursk Oblast, with little effect amounting to high casualty totals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kirby added that North Korean soldiers have reportedly taken their own lives rather than surrender to Ukrainian troops, out of fear their families will be targeted over their capture. Ukraine and Russia are rushing to make up ground in Kursk Oblast before U.S. President-elect Donald Trump takes power on Jan. 2o. Trump has previously said he would end the war in "24 hours" with potential peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. U.S. officials told Bloomberg on Dec. 27 that they believe Ukraine may only have a few months left in its incursion into Kursk Oblast until Ukraine's military is forced to retreat from the region or risk being encircled by Russian forces. The comments come as Ukraine has steadily lost ground in the region amid Russian counterattacks. Ukraine has reportedly lost over 40% of territory it previously gained in due to renewed Russian efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Heavy Russian, North Korean losses in Russias Kursk region, Zelensky says Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. MARHSALLTOWN, Iowa The Marshalltown Police Department has arrested three men as part of an ongoing credit card scam investigation. The investigation began on December 23, 2024, after the Marshalltown Police Department received reports of credit card fraud and a possible skimming device. A skimming device was successfully located attached to a gas pump at a Caseys on West Lincoln Way on December 31, 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two men charged with felonies following overnight burglary Authorities say that as of January 3, 2025, more than 30 people reported finding fraudulent charges on their accounts, with multiple individuals reporting their cards being used at the Walmart on Center Street and the Git N Go on West Lincoln Way. Authorities obtained surveillance video during the investigation and developed suspects. On January 2 and 3, three arrests were made in relation to the ongoing credit card investigation. 38-year-old Alieski Perez Hernandez from Florida was arrested and charged with identify theft under $1500 and theft in the third-degree. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yohannis Bacardi Bague, 30, from Missouri was arrested and charged with identity theft over $10,000, first-degree theft, and unauthorized use of a credit card over $10,000. 26-year-old Oscar Rodriguez Alcaraz from Florida was arrested and charged with identity theft over $10,000, first-degree theft, and unauthorized use of a credit card over $10,000. The investigation into the reported credit card frauds remains open and the Marshalltown Police Department expects to make more arrests. The Marshalltown Police Department asks anyone with information about these incidents to contact the MPD at 641-754-5725. You can also call in anonymously at 641-753-1234. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. HONOLULU (AP) A 3-year-old boy who died Monday was the fourth person to succumb to injuries from a massive explosion of fireworks on New Year's Eve at a Honolulu home, and a doctor said six others faced long recoveries in Arizona, where they were sent to be treated for severe burns. The blast also killed three women and injured more than 20 people, many of whom have burns over most of their bodies. The Honolulu medical examiner identified the toddler as Cassius Ramos-Benigno. The cause and manner of death were listed as pending. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the disaster, Hawaiis leaders intensified their oft-repeated calls to crack down on the states vast illegal fireworks trade with stepped-up enforcement and greater penalties. The U.S. military flew six of the injured to Phoenix for treatment on Saturday because Hawaiis lone burn unit doesnt have enough capacity to care for all the victims. They are all in their 20s or 30s and have extensive burns, Dr. Kevin Foster, the director of the Arizona Burn Center, said at a news conference streamed online. The person with the least has burns over 45% of their body while the most has burns over nearly 80% of their body. Each of the six is using a breathing tube and five are in medically induced comas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Foster said they are all doing very well and have good vital signs. But it will be six months to a year before any are able to return to anything resembling a normal life, Foster said. Four patients will likely have to remain intubated and in a coma for weeks, he said. The patients will likely suffer post-traumatic stress disorder, Foster said, adding the burn center has two full-time psychologists and a psychiatrist hospital on staff to help them. Theres something uniquely and particularly horrifying about being burned, especially from this type of injury, Foster said. And we anticipate that all of these patients are going to have some adjustment issues. Many required emergency surgery before leaving Hawaii and a number had traumatic injuries in addition to burns, because of the explosions and resulting projectiles, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Arizona Burn Center operated on all six on Sunday, performed three other surgeries Monday and plan three others Tuesday. By then, doctors should be done with removing burns and will progress to closing wounds and grafting skin, Foster said. Infections are the most dangerous and feared complication for burn patients, he said, while also predicting all would likely get them at some point. Its just the way burn injury works, especially when you have large percent-of-total-body-surface-area burns like this, Foster said. The scars, and the physical limitations that come with them, will likely be the biggest thing that the patients have to deal with and are what will make these wounds lifelong injuries, he said. Foundations affiliated with the burn center and the hospital it is a part of, Valleywise Health, are providing housing for patient relatives. Some burn center employees have even volunteered their homes, Foster said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Honolulu, Straub Benioff Medical Center admitted 10 patients from the blast more than from any other single mass casualty event including the 2023 Maui wildfires and is still caring for nine after one was among those who went to Arizona. Specially trained nurses in the hospitals burn unit are changing the wound dressings at least once every 12 hours. It takes them about 30 minutes to an hour to change the dressings of a standard wound patient. But some New Year's explosion victims have such extensive burns that a team of at least four people will spend a couple of hours on the job. Were doing dressing changes around the clock and needing to definitely recruit extra staff just to support that, said Amy Chong, supervisor of the hospital's burn care unit. Hawaiis diverse population has long celebrated New Years with fireworks, but in recent years, professional-grade aerial explosives have been growing in popularity even though they are illegal for amateurs. Neighborhoods across Oahu light up for hours as residents launch aerial fireworks into the sky from the narrow streets in front of their homes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Honolulu authorities say a person attending a party lit a bundle of aerial fireworks, which fell on its side and shot explosives into two crates that contained additional aerials. Video of the resulting explosion shows a rapid series of blasts shooting fireworks in the air and around the front of a house. Hawaiis counties have varying rules on other types of fireworks. On Oahu, the states most populous island, only certain types of firecrackers are allowed to be used during specific timeframes on New Years Eve, Chinese New Year and Fourth of July. However, many residents set off fireworks of all kinds year-round. ___ This story has been corrected to fix a typographical error in the first name of a Straub Benioff Medical Center supervisor. It has also been correct to show that four of the patients taken to Arizona for treatment will likely have to remain intubated and in a coma for weeks, not months. ___ Associated Press writer Jennifer Sinco Kelleher contributed to this report. (WKBN) Monday marks four years since the U.S. Capitol breach. Numerous residents around the Valley were found guilty for their roles in the insurrection while others are still making their way through the court system. However, whether the charges will stick after President-elect Donald Trump takes office remains to be seen. Joseph Vaglica, originally from Florida but now a Youngstown resident, was charged with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority; disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds; disorderly conduct in a Capitol building; and parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building. According to a criminal complaint filed in October 2023, investigators say phone records put Vaglica at the Capitol during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach and that video showed him entering the Capitols Senate Wing Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court records show Vaglicas case is still ongoing, with a pretrial conference set for March 21, 2025, before Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly. Vaglica is free on a personal recognizance bond. Joseph Vaglica. Courtesy: FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force Rachel Powell, of Sandy Lake in Mercer County, was found guilty of all counts for her role in the Jan. 6 Capitol breach in July 2023. Powell, also known as the Bullhorn Lady was accused of storming the U.S. Capitol using a battering ram and giving directions through a bullhorn to other rioters. Powell was sentenced in October 2023 to four years and nine months in prison. Prosecutors had asked for eight years. After she gets out, she will have to serve three years of probation and pay restitution in the amount of $2,753 and a fine of $5,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Powell has appealed her sentence and has requested a resentencing with recalculated guidelines. A new sentencing date was set for Mon. Jan. 6. at 12:30 p.m., but due to inclement weather that date will be reset. A new date was not listed in court records. Rachel Powell Kenneth Thomas, of East Liverpool, was found guilty in June of 2023 to charges of civil disorder, four counts of assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers, entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, and disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds. He was found not guilty of five additional charges. Records state that Thomas encouraged rioters to hold the line and prevented officers from advancing. Thomas was sentenced by Judge Dabney L. Friedrich in November 2023 to 58 months of incarceration just over four-and-a-half years followed by three years of probation. He was ordered to pay a special assessment of $550, as well as $2,000 restitution and a $20,000 fine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Records show a motion for acquittal and a motion for a new trial were both denied by the court. Kenneth Thomas Michael Lockwood, of Southington, was sentenced for his role in the riot in November 2023. According to court documents, Lockwood was seen in images and cellphone footage of the demonstration. He was also accused of grabbing a baton from an officer and going into the crowd with it. Lockwood had pleaded guilty to assaulting, resisting or impeding officers or employees and was sentenced to a year and a day in federal prison, as well as three years of supervised release. Michael Lockwood Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A New Castle couple was sentenced in August 2023 after pleading guilty in June. Philip Vogel and Debra Maimone each pleaded guilty to a single count of theft or embezzlement of government property. Vogel received a sentence of 30 days in jail by U.S. Judge Randolph D. Moss while Maimone was sentenced to two years probation. Philip Vogel, Debra Maimone President-elect Donald Trump has spent the past four years seeking to rewrite the events of Jan. 6, 2021, when rioters tried to halt the certification of his defeat by President Joe Biden. On the campaign trail, he repeatedly referred to it as a day of love, and he has referred to those arrested for their actions that day as hostages and vowed to pardon them immediately upon taking office this month, the Associated Press reports. Patty Coller and Joe Gorman contributed to this report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) Three men connected to Las Vegas and arrested for their actions on Jan. 6 have completed their prison sentences while four others await their fate amid President-elect Donald Trumps re-election. Jan. 6, 2025, marked four years since the former presidents supporters descended on the Capitol following his election loss. Prosecutors have brought charges against more than 1,500 people since. Trump has called the riots political prisoners and hostages even as some pleaded guilty to assaulting police officers and destroying property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres where each case stands as of Monday: Christine Barrello: Agreed to a plea deal and was awaiting sentencing as of Monday. Nathaniel Nate DeGrave: Sentenced in May 2023 to 3 years in prison. The Bureau of Prisons released DeGrave from custody on Sept. 6, 2024. Brandon Dillard: Sentenced in April 2024 to four months with one year of supervised release. The Bureau of Prisons released Dillard on Sept. 5, 2024. Nolan Freeman: Agreed to plea and awaiting sentencing as of Monday. Mario Gonzalez: Awaiting trial scheduled for February. Bradley Nelson: Agreed to a plea deal and awaiting sentencing as of Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ronald Ronnie Sandlin: Sentenced in December 2022 to five years in prison with three years supervised release. The Bureau of Prisons confirmed it released Sandlin from custody on Dec. 3, 2024. The releases from federal prison come amid a law allowing for credit for time served and other in-custody credits, a spokesperson said. The riot happened as Congress certified the 2020 election for President Joe Biden amid Trumps baseless claims of election fraud. The riot stopped the official congressional proceeding. In 2021, several members of Nevadas congressional delegation told 8 News Now they had to hide in a secure place for their safety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The peaceful transfer of power is the cornerstone of our democracy, Nevada Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto said in a statement. Today is also a somber day. I cant help but remember that on this day four years ago, a very different scene was unfolding in Washington. This anniversary is a reminder that we cannot believe in free and fair elections only when we win. Ill always be thankful for the brave actions of the Capitol Police who stood up to protect us on that day, and will never forget just how precious our democracy is. The FBI continues to investigate the violence from Jan. 6, 2021. Anyone with tips is asked to contact the agency at 1-800-CALL-FBI. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. HELSINKI, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- With the arrival of 12,000 new conscripts on Monday, facemasks and internal isolations returned to Finnish military barracks. The intention is to prevent further spreading of the Adeno virus that has plagued the forces during the last year, the official military newspaper Ruotuvaki reported. Arriving conscripts will be deployed in small cohorts that do not meet people of other cohorts during the first three weeks. The traditional "open houses" at all barracks for friends and family during the first month will be cancelled, the Defence Forces said. Contrary to the usual profile of the Adeno, many soldiers infected with the virus have often developed serious symptoms this past autumn, the Defence Forces said. Some required intensive care. Major Saku Silmu, head of training at a brigade in western Finland, told national radio Yle that with the measures, the risk of an uncontrolled spreading of the virus in the barracks is minimized. The incubation time of the virus could be two weeks, he said. Besides Adeno, there have been cases of COVID-19, Mycoplasma and whooping cough, the Defence Forces said. Finland is one of the few countries in Western Europe that have maintained a general national service. PLYMOUTH, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) Five people were displaced after firefighters battled a house fire in Plymouth Sunday afternoon. At around 4:00 p.m. Sunday, The Plymouth Fire Department was called to the 100 block of Nottingham Street for a reported structure fire. The Plymouth Fire Department Chief tells 28/22 News they were called to the blaze with a bed that caught fire. Firefighters were able to contain the flames to the right side of the home so those on the opposite side did not sustain any damage that would force them out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 20 people transported after fire at nursing center Officials explained that there were five people inside the home at the time, four of which were children, and all got out safely with no injuries. The fire chief says the Red Cross is providing aid and the Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal is investigating the incident. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com. SUMNER COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) Two separate traffic stops in Sumner County this weekend resulted in five arrests, as well as the seizure of multiple guns and drugs. The Sumner County Sheriffs Office said a deputy stopped a vehicle on Saturday, Jan. 4 for a traffic violation, but one of the occupants ran off. Following a foot chase, the deputy brought the suspect to the ground and detained him. Authorities said they searched the vehicle and found a stolen Glock handgun equipped with a switch effectively converting it to a fully automatic along with a considerable amount of marijuana packaged for resale. (Courtesy: Sumner County Sheriffs Office) We remain committed to protecting Sumner County by keeping outside criminal activity from taking hold in our communities and are proud of the proactive work our patrol division consistently performs, the sheriffs office wrote on Facebook. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said they took four Nashvillians into custody because of Saturdays incident, but no additional details were released about it, including the identities of those apprehended or the charges against them. MNPD: 6 teens arrested in connection with stolen vehicles, burglaries Then, despite the cold temperatures and frozen rain on Sunday, Jan. 5, deputies arrested David Smith a convicted felon from Nashville with prior resale drug convictions in Shelby County and Davidson County during a traffic stop, according to the sheriffs office. Law enforcement said they conducted a probable cause search of his vehicle, which led to the discovery of a firearm with the serial number scratched off and a significant quantity of marijuana packed for resale. (Courtesy: Sumner County Sheriffs Office) We may not control the weather, but we do control how hard we work to keep Sumner County safe, the sheriffs office wrote on social media. The criminal element wont find refuge here. #FelonsFreezeButWeDont #ColdCuffWarmers Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities did not share any other information about Sundays traffic stop. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. No state agency has charged former Broward mover Shawn Thompson criminally, although at least two have been investigating Thompson after customer complaints alleging fraud and extortion. But, an Orange County court hit Thompson with a civil judgment in December just as a Miami-Dade court did a year earlier. A final judgment from Orange County Judge Jeramy C. Beasley on Dec. 4 hits Thompson with $13,000 in basic damages, $39,000 in punitive damages and $430 in court costs plus it awarded $7,720 in attorneys fees to plaintiff Scott Meyer. Backed by an estimate, invoices and Zelle transfer screenshots, Meyers lawsuit said Thompsons Moving Giants gave Meyer an estimate of $669.50 for a 19-mile Orlando to Oveido move on July 11, 2023, then morphed it to $1,801 upon arrival at the Oveido location via unapproved new charges. The new invoice said Thompson and Thompson employee Renee Carter would hold Meyers property until he paid the inflated price. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beasleys judgment was a default judgment. Unlike the Miami-Dade case, in which Miami-Dade Circuit Court Judge Michael Barket said Thompsons testimony showed him to be a direct participant in this unfair, deceptive, and fraudulent scheme, Thompson wasnt deposed. He didnt respond to the Orange County lawsuit in any way, court records show. The process server appointed by Broward Sheriffs Office said in court documents that Thompson even gave the false name of Sam Smith when being served at 6742 NW 17th Ave., the address of several of Thompsons companies at the time. A process server said when he tried to serve Shawn Thompson with a lawsuit at this Fort Lauderdale location, 6742 NW 17th Ave., Thompson claimed to be Sam Smith. However, the process server ran the license tags in the parking lot and found the dark Mercedes SUV with Florida tag 42D MHC was registered to Shawn Eyon David Thompson. A drivers license photo lookup confirmed the 5-11, 250-pound Sam Smith was Thompson. When a Herald reporter asked about this judgment Wednesday via text message, Thompson replied with three texts that accused the Herald of violating his civil rights by contacting him and putting the number he uses for Thompson Nation & Affiliates in an article. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is your final warning, Thompson wrote. I am not like all these bull ---- stories you write just to try to get a name for yourself without facts and these people you write fall stories about is reaching out to me to file a suit against you for lies. All your stories have no merit or truth to it. Write one more lies about me and Ill see you in court. Requests from Tallahassee A Jacksonville resident who said a Thompson company pulled a sudden cost increase extortion on him during a move from Fort Lauderdale forwarded the Herald an Oct. 16, 2023 email he received from Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Chief of Mediation and Enforcement W. Alan Parkinson that said: ...weve received 98 complaints since the beginning of 2022 against Thompson Nation Holdings LLC. We have referred a case to our Investigative Section for review based upon the complaints weve received. FDACS has yet to act against Thompson, but Miami-Dade online court records say the state agencys general counsel office requested certified copies of the Miami-Dade cases final judgment; the permanent injunction against Thompson, Thompson Nation Holdings and Small Move Movers that says, in short, any repeat of the fraudulent behavior will be considered contempt of court; and the deposition of Nicollette Gonzalez. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gonzalez filed the Miami-Dade suit after she didnt pay $3,243 of extra charges for a Miami-to-Gainesville move and Thompson hid her furniture and clothes. The judgment awarded her $7,619 plus attorneys fees. Interstate shenanigans? Meyer and Gonzalezs lawsuits describe a bait-and-extort scheme described on a Reddit page devoted to Thompson; described on Better Business Bureau pages of Thompson-connected moving businesses such as Fresh Start Moving & Storage, One Man, One Van and others; on other mover review sites; and Charlene, 61, and Leroy Clayborne, 75, a married couple who moved from Palm Coast to Aiken, South Carolina. Charlene Clayborne wrote in a Sept. 12 letter they used Green Go Movers, one of the Thompson-related companies now based out of the 2814 Silver Star Rd. Orlando office used by Thompson Nation Holdings, Thompson Nation & Affiliates and other Thompson companies. Several companies controlled by Shawn Thompson, called a fraudulent extortionist by a Miami-Dade Civil Court judge, operate out of this building, 2814 Silver Star Rd., in Orlando. A Sept. 12 letter to Miami-Dade Judge Michael Barket, the last entry on the Gonzalez online case docket, says a quote of $5,000 turned into a final invoice of $20,131 after the Claybornes house was packed. Then, according to Charlene Clayborne, Green Go demanded $14,000 before they would roll off the property. They accepted a good faith payment of $1,500, part of which was a $1,000 Zelle payment to Shawn Thompson at travel.payprelogmail.com that Wells Fargo flagged as fraudulent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clayborne wrote, I explained that WF flagged the transaction as being fraudulent and [Alexis] stated that was because it was a new account. Alexis also told Clayborne, the customer said, that $6,131 in cash would be due on arrival or the possessions wouldnt be unpacked. Clayborne said a Bobby called from Green Go the morning the truck arrived in Aiken, claiming they now owed $8,434. Clayborne said after the movers arrived, she told them she was going to the bank for money orders. Damian was upset by this as he was expecting cash. l told him to contact the office, Clayborne wrote. I left my house, parked at the top of the hill and called the sheriffs office. They arrived approximately 20 minutes later. After reviewing our contract and proof of payment, the movers were ordered to give us our belongings or be arrested for larceny and their trucks be impounded. l should mention that the movers arrived with a U-Haul truck and a Penske truck and only two people, one driver each. They literally tossed our things in the garage and then the driveway causing lots of damage. We took a video of them unpacking the trucks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A search of the U.S. Department of Transportation site doesnt turn up Green Go Movers as a licensed interstate mover. USDOT No. 4176294, which is associated with Green Go Moving on another site, comes up as Thompson company Todays Move Movers, which does business as Two Men One Truck Movers, ph. no. 863-231-4582. Neither is licensed to move anyone from Florida to South Carolina. A travel website has been accused of using obscure wording to sign customers up to a 90 subscription they did not want. Flights booked through comparison website Opodo are advertised with two prices one of which can only be accessed by Opodo Prime members. The subscription, which has 6.5 million members worldwide, offers cheaper flights, covers cancellations, better customer support and the ability to freeze flight prices for 1. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But travellers complained that they did not realise opting for the cheaper deal would see them charged a 89.99 annual subscription fee. Many were refused refunds when they complained. The cheaper price is advertised in a bright orange box, whereas the non-subscription tickets are advertised to the left, without the eye-catching colour. Martin Levin, 79, booked a flight from London to Greece with Opodo on November 4. He was travelling to Thessaloniki and paid 447.41 for flights for himself and his wife. But it wasnt until he checked his card statement in December that he realised he had been charged an additional 89.99 for an Opodo Prime membership something he did not realise he had signed up for. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Levin said: It was not apparent that they had signed me up for an annual membership. In the confirmation email he received, he was told that being an Opodo Prime member had saved him 48. But in the breakdown of what he had paid, Opodo told him that the membership cost 0, through a 30-day free trial. The Prime Plus subscription then costs 89.99 a year. When he called to complain, he claims he was told that because he was outside the cooling off period, he was not eligible for a refund. He said: I was answered with such irrelevance, about benefits and perhaps others that were of no interest to me. She concluded that as the date [November 19], was outside their timeframe for cancellation that she couldnt do anything. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She also inflamed me by having the audacity to utter that arrogant phrase clearly, when she stated that the charge was clearly stated on the email. The email was about five pages long and, if anything were referred to, then it was hidden at the end of a long email. After The Telegraph contacted Opodo, Mr Levin was refunded the full fee. Other travellers have complained about the practice online. Nearly a quarter of Opodos more than 260,000 reviews on Trustpilot are one-star, with one reviewer writing: Do not sign up to Opodo anything. They removed 89 from my account. Another wrote: Their subscription language is obscure. Be extremely careful in providing your bank details when you are booking a flight. They whip out that subscription amount without declaring it transparently. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The travel agency, which is part of the eDreams Odigeo group, was founded in the early noughties by a group of airlines including BA and Air France. It says that on average, Opodo Prime members save 210 on each holiday booking of flights and hotels for two people. Jane Hawkes, a consumer travel expert, said: Its really disappointing that unsuspecting customers are being caught out in this way especially when it comes to something which should be a positive purchase experience. If payments are taken without consent and the company will not refund, contact your card provider or bank with regard to revoking authorisation. It comes days after British Airways faced criticism for changes to its membership scheme, meaning passengers need to spend 20,000 a year to achieve its Gold tier. Industry experts said the airline had washed its hands of loyal customers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An Opodo spokesman said: Prime is an optional service that customers must actively choose to opt in, offering exclusive benefits such as member-only deals on flights, hotels, packages and car rentals. Full details of the membership, including its benefits, costs and the trial period, are transparently presented at multiple stages during the booking process, ensuring customers can make informed decisions. In this instance, Mr Levin received all relevant communications about his membership and only requested cancellation once the free trial period had already expired. Despite this, we appreciate Mr Levins circumstances and, as an exceptional gesture of goodwill, we are offering a refund of the non-refundable fee on this occasion. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Boston Police are issuing an alert regarding a text message scam about an unpaid parking invoice thats been saturating Boston area codes since Saturday. The fraudulent message from a Montreal area code, which uses the citys logo, instructs people to pay $4.35 to avoid late fees of 35$. It provides a link to a deceptive .com website that is not the boston.gov website. At-large City Councilor Erin Murphy is among the growing list of people targeted by the scam over the weekend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At first glance, absolutely looked real. Could easily scam people, said Murphy. Almost everyone I talked to, they got it or someone in their household got it. Murphy said shes heard directly from people who were tricked by the message and compromised their banking information. Its scary to know that someone was able to send that many text messages out, and they were targeting Boston phone numbers, she said. Boston police are still trying to figure out what phone database the scammers accessed and exactly how many people received the text message scam. They definitely got a lot of people, and the amount, $4.35, a few people said that was the fee they paid at a parking meter, said Murphy. It directed them to a website that looked very similar to the city of Boston website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boston 25 News spoke with a handful of people who received the fraudulent message. Some said they too almost fell for it. One person said they didnt own a vehicle and knew it was a scam right away. The message has some grammatical errors and uses a $ sign after the number 35. Boston 25 News called the phone number it came from, and it went directly to a voice message in French. Dont feel embarrassed if you did pay it, added Murphy. Let us know so we can help track to make sure theres no fraud going on or no money taken. While city officials recently announced a significant drop in violent crime and other serious crimes, one of the crimes that remain on the rise is financial fraud. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev again accused Russia of causing the Dec. 25 crash of Airlines Flight J2-8243, which killed 38 people, and criticized Vladimir Putin for not admitting guilt during a Jan. 6 meeting with victims families and surviving crew members. The flight, en route from Baku to Grozny, Chechnya, changed course and crashed in Kazakhstan. Multiple reports and official Azerbaijani statements attributed the disaster to a missile launched by a Russian Pantsir-S air defense system. "The blame for this disaster lies with representatives of the Russian Federation," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has maintained close ties with Azerbaijan, offered condolences during a Dec. 28 phone call but stopped short of admitting Russian responsibility. Aliyev criticized Russias handling of the incident, accusing its agencies of suppressing evidence and promoting "absurd versions" of events. Aliyev also blamed Russia for failing to close its airspace near Grozny and highlighted poor coordination between its military and civil aviation services as factors contributing to the tragedy. Read also: Azerbaijan Airlines crash highlights Russias failure to close airspace amid war Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aliyev said the planes black boxes were decoded in Brazil at Azerbaijans insistence, bypassing the Interstate Aviation Committee due to doubts about its objectivity. Flight J2-8243 carried 67 passengers, including 42 Azerbaijani citizens, 16 Russians, six Kazakhs, and three Kyrgyz citizens. Official Azerbaijani sources confirmed that the missile responsible originated from Russian forces. Read also: Lukashenkos spox denies apology to Zelensky for Belaruss involvement in Russias war Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. LGBTQ+ advocates on Monday reached an agreement with Defense Department officials for an overhaul of discharge upgrade policies designed to help veterans previously booted from the military under the controversial dont ask, dont tell policy. The move ends a 17-month legal battle and could impact more than 30,000 veterans. In a statement, the group Justice for LGBTQ+ Veterans said the settlement would address continued discrimination against those individuals by giving them a reasonable path to applying for honorable discharge status. As a Marine, I was proud to stand alongside my fellow service members, embracing the core values of honor, courage, and commitment, said Jules Sohn, one of the plaintiffs in the case. However, the pain and injustice of being discharged under discriminatory policies like dont ask, dont tell have lingered for years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This settlement represents not just a recognition of those wrongs but a step toward ensuring that no service member ever faces such prejudice again. Pentagon changes discharges for 800-plus vets kicked out for being gay The agreement still must be approved by court officials before it can be finalized. However, under the terms of the deal, veterans would have the opportunity as early as this summer to request upgrades to honorable discharge status under a new military appeal process. The militarys dont ask, dont tell policy was put in place in 1993 as a compromise to allow some level of military service for gay, lesbian and bisexual individuals. But advocates said the policy was enforced erratically and discriminatorily, and forced those troops to keep secrets about their personal lives from friends and commanders, to the detriment of unit cohesiveness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many discharged individuals had their veterans status left to the arbitrary whims of commanders. Those with honorable discharges could access veterans education and medical benefits. Individuals with other-than-honorable discharges were left without post-military help. Nearly 13,500 service members were forced out of the military under the policy, according to Defense Department records. The policy was repealed in 2011, allowing gay, lesbian and bisexual individuals to serve openly in the ranks for the first time. In October, Pentagon leaders announced that about 800 veterans previously kicked out of the military for their sexual orientation would have their dismissals automatically upgraded to honorable discharges, following a year-long review of their service records. VA has also promised changes in how they handle benefits for those individuals. But the new agreement would go further, providing a clearer and easier path to get military records changed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One adjustment would remove discriminatory sexual orientation indicators from DD-214 forms without having to go through a formal Board of Corrections process. Another would require the Defense Department to review all less-than-honorable discharges under dont ask, dont tell for potential upgrades, without a new appeal application. Advocates said the moves will simplify and expedite the process, offering veterans a clear pathway to upgraded records. They could also help nearly 20,000 other military members dismissed from 1980 to 1993 for same-sex relations before the implementation of dont ask, dont tell. Military leaders have said that less than half of the 30,000-plus service members dismissed for their sexual orientation from 1980 to 2011 received honorable discharge status. Pentagon officials last year had moved for the lawsuit to be dismissed, but are expected to file a motion in coming days pushing for the settlement to end the legal fight. More details of the new process are expected to be released in coming months. Westminster council is seeking to ban house for sale signs amid complaints they cause substantial harm to local character. Officials have sparked outrage after claiming the signs are no longer necessary due to the rise in house hunting conducted online. Property experts accused the council of being Nimbys and said the decision amounted to an abuse of power. Westminster already requires estate agents to seek permission to put up a sign in protected areas, but it now wants to extend this rule across the whole area to avoid a two-tier system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rico Wojtulewicz, head of planning and market insight at the National Federation of Builders (NFB), said: It is time to call out Westminster Council as Nimbys on this issue. They have not sought any in character solution, and cite climate change as a concern, but their proposal will see increased energy use, more waste and reduced re-useable materials. Their whole premise will curtail local businesses by increasing all their costs, and consequently giving a leg up to big companies. Harm to local character The proposal from officials states that for sale signs cause substantial harm to visual amenity and local character. However, Mr Wojtulewicz said the councils arguments for the ban dont hold water. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added that not all estate agencies use online advertising due to the costs, and physical signs can be a way for them to market both a property and their business. The average house price in Westminster is 960,000, according to the Office for National Statistics, three times more than the national average of 309,000. Under Article 7 of the Town and Country Planning Regulations of 2007, Westminster council which includes the top market areas of Mayfair, Knightsbridge and Belgravia already has a ban on for sale signs in some conservation areas. In order to extend the ban to the whole borough, the council needs permission from Angela Rayner, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Wojtulewicz called on the Deputy Prime Minister to reject the application, if it does land on her desk. He added that the decision will be a litmus test of whether Labour is serious about growth because it understands the damaging nature of decision-making on the long tail of business. He argues that the ban will disproportionately harm smaller businesses, pushing up their costs and helping larger businesses gain ground. Kundan Bhaduri, property developer and landlord at The Kushman Group, said: These signs remain an important, time-tested tool in the property market. The digital shift is undeniable, but not all buyers rely solely on online platforms. For many, seeing a sign outside a property feels more tangible and prompts spontaneous enquiries. Will it harm business? Potentially, especially for smaller agencies that rely on local visibility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Bhaduri suggests that limiting the size or duration of time a sign can be up would be a better approach. Westminster council was approached for comment. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. A staggering 89% of students admitted to using AI tools like ChatGPT to complete homework assignments in a study by Study.com. Research suggests this may not good for their problem-solving skills. (Getty image) Hey, can you help me unChatGPT this essay? As a student in college who reads and writes constantly in a friend group full of STEM majors (pre-med, engineering, math, etc.), I have been asked this question more times than I can count. Generative AI feels almost magical, effortlessly tackling tasks and becoming an indispensable asset in a busy students toolkit. AI tools can summarize articles, generate essays, and even provide personalized tutoring. I must admit, there are moments when I rely on AI. But while AI offers clear benefits, especially for efficiency and organization, theres a pressing issue that we as a society need to address: Is using AI in education causing us to lose our ability to think critically? The data says yes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Research shows that overreliance on AI can undermine the development of critical thinking skills. A study from the International Journal of Risk and Contingency Management found that increased reliance on AI tools negatively impacts problem-solving skills, finding a sharp decline in performance among study participants who relied on AI the most. This issue demands our attention because, without critical thinking, we risk creating a generation of students who can regurgitate information but struggle to analyze or create new ideas. Shortcut learning, where students use AI to bypass difficult tasks, is becoming more common. In a New York Times piece, Leila Wheless, a North Carolina teacher, noted that cheating with AI is rampant in her classes. Her goal is to remind students, Yes, youre going to struggle, but youre going to feel good at the end of it. It is true. Instead of grappling with challenging readings or formulating their own thoughts, many students now rely on AI to think for them. According to a survey conducted by Study.com, a staggering 89% of students admitted to using AI tools like ChatGPT to complete homework assignments. Is using AI in education causing us to lose our ability to think critically? The data says yes. Critical thinking is more than just absorbing information; it requires analyzing, evaluating, and synthesizing ideas. When students use AI to generate responses or essays, they miss the opportunity to engage deeply with the material. Research from Carnegie Mellon University emphasizes that active learning where students interact with the content directly enhances cognitive development and improves long-term retention. In contrast, passive reliance on AI promotes shallow learning, where students remember less and understand even less. The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that, though students prefer passive learning, it results in poorer academic performance than active learning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AIs role in eroding originality and accountability is another concern. As more students turn to AI to generate or polish their work, the line between original and machine-assisted thought becomes blurry. A report from Turnitin, plagiarism detection software used by many universities, finds over 22 million essays produced in the last year contained at least 20% AI-generated content while 6 million contained at least 80% AI-generated content. While AI can refine ideas, overreliance blurs the line between students own thinking and AIs input. This could have lasting consequences. If students fail to develop original thinking, how will they innovate in the workplace? The ethical concerns of AI-assisted plagiarism are alarming students risk their integrity and erode personal responsibility. Left unchecked, this trend could fuel widespread academic dishonesty and degrade educational quality. Rather than banning AI in education though, we should use it mindfully. As international AI experts from the Electronics journal argue, AI can revolutionize education only when paired with teaching methods that foster cognitive development and problem-solving. While AI can assist with research, instructors should teach students to demonstrate their idea development process and introduce AI models as extraherics designed to guide students with questions and diverse perspectives, rather than simply providing answers. In todays educational landscape, AI tools are tempting shortcuts for students overwhelmed by their workloads. However, the overuse of AI threatens the very essence of education: the ability to think critically and create new ideas. If we allow AI to take over our intellectual efforts, we risk losing the human qualities that make education valuable. We need to advocate for policies that enable our education force to wield AI as a teaching tool while teaching students to use it responsibly. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX PHENIX CITY, Ala. (WIAT) A 39-year-old man from Phenix City will serve nearly eight years in prison after pleading guilty to a COVID-19 relief scheme worth millions of dollars. On Monday, Nathan Carlisle was sentenced to 92 months in prison on wire fraud and money laundering convictions. Congress formally certifies Trumps election win According to prosecutors, Carlisle applied for 23 loans through the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program between July 2020 and April 2021. Carlisle, who has two felony convictions out of Russell County, was ultimately funded through five of the loans requests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carlisle made multiple false statements and misrepresentations in his applications, including the businesses revenue, the number of employees, and that he had no felony convictions in the last five years, the United States Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Alabama released in a statement. Carlisle further admitted to submitting forged documents with the applications including fake or altered business licenses. Through the scheme, Carlisle received $600,000 for four separate applications, although the total amount sought was over $3.4 million. Carlisle was also convicted of money laundering for using the illegal proceeds to purchase a vehicle, among other unauthorized personal expenses. As part of his sentence, Carlisle will also be required to pay $547,846.54 in restitution to the Small Business Administration, as well as paying the same amount to the federal government. Kyle Carlisle fabricated lies and forged documents in a scheme to divert taxpayer money for his own self-enrichment, Acting U.S. Attorney Kevin P. Davidson said in a statement. The EIDL program was intended to provide relief to actual struggling businesses during a pandemic that created an enormous economic burden on the entire country. My office remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue those who engage in activities that threaten the integrity of government programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen makes a statement after meeting Freedom Party's leader Herbert Kickl in Vienna, Austria, Jan. 6, 2025. Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen on Monday tasked Freedom Party's leader Herbert Kickl with forming a new government. The move came after the collapse of three-party coalition talks among the People's Party, the Social Democratic Party and the NEOS and later the failure of two-party negotiations following the NEOS' withdrawal. (Photo by Georges Schneider/Xinhua) VIENNA, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen on Monday tasked Freedom Party leader Herbert Kickl with forming a new government after recent coalition talks without the far-right party collapsed. Van der Bellen announced the decision following a one-hour talk with Kickl around noon. Speaking at a press conference, the president said that the political landscape had shifted, as the People's Party was now ready to negotiate a coalition under Kickl's leadership. Kickl expressed confidence in finding viable solutions and affirmed willingness to take the responsibility, Van der Bellen was quoted as saying by Austrian news agency APA. The Freedom Party has previously served as a junior coalition partner but has never led an Austrian government. The Austrian president's latest move follows the collapse of three-party coalition talks involving the People's Party, the Social Democratic Party and the NEOS party. Subsequent two-party talks also failed after the NEOS' withdrawal. In the September parliamentary election, the Freedom Party secured around 29 percent of the vote, ahead of the People's Party with 26.3 percent and the Social Democratic Party with 21.1 percent. Despite winning the parliamentary presidency, the Freedom Party had been unable to secure coalition partners to form a government. In October, Van der Bellen tasked the People's Party with forming a government. However, coalition talks led by the party dragged on from mid-November until their sudden collapse over the weekend. On Saturday, Karl Nehammer resigned as chancellor and chairman of the People's Party after the negotiations failed. Nehammer had consistently opposed forming a coalition with the Freedom Party under Kickl. The People's Party on Sunday appointed secretary-general Christian Stocker as interim leader. Though Stocker has been a sharp critic of Kickl, he said later that day that his party was open to coalition negotiations with the Freedom Party. Stocker defended the shift, citing the need to get a stable government and avoid wasting time with election campaigns. Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen makes a statement after meeting Freedom Party's leader Herbert Kickl in Vienna, Austria, Jan. 6, 2025. Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen on Monday tasked Freedom Party's leader Herbert Kickl with forming a new government. The move came after the collapse of three-party coalition talks among the People's Party, the Social Democratic Party and the NEOS and later the failure of two-party negotiations following the NEOS' withdrawal. (Photo by Georges Schneider/Xinhua) Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen makes a statement after meeting Freedom Party's leader Herbert Kickl in Vienna, Austria, Jan. 6, 2025. Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen on Monday tasked Freedom Party's leader Herbert Kickl with forming a new government. The move came after the collapse of three-party coalition talks among the People's Party, the Social Democratic Party and the NEOS and later the failure of two-party negotiations following the NEOS' withdrawal. (Photo by Georges Schneider/Xinhua) Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen (L) meets Freedom Party's leader Herbert Kickl in Vienna, Austria, Jan. 6, 2025. Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen on Monday tasked Freedom Party's leader Herbert Kickl with forming a new government. The move came after the collapse of three-party coalition talks among the People's Party, the Social Democratic Party and the NEOS and later the failure of two-party negotiations following the NEOS' withdrawal. (Photo by Georges Schneider/Xinhua) ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) Albuquerque police arrested 26-year-old Zayed Mohammad after being accused in a carjacking and named a suspect in a recent shooting. Video: Driver of car strikes two police cruisers, history of crashing into police Mohammad, a smoke shop employee, was questioned by detectives about a recent shooting in an alley behind the smoke shop near Central and Wyoming. APD says Mohammad was arrested following the interview with detectives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. This is an adapted excerpt from the Jan. 5 episode of "Velshi." In the fall of 1870, in San Franciscos Chinatown, Wong Kim Ark was born in a bedroom above his fathers grocery store. Wong was one of only 518 American-born Chinese people in the country at the time of his birth, according to the 1870 census. His parents had moved to San Francisco, commonly referred to by Chinese immigrants as Gold Mountain, to seek work. After spending some time in the city following Wongs birth, the family packed up and moved back to China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While no documentation shows us explicitly why they left, there is some important context worth noting: In 1877, San Franciscos Chinatown was the site of a riot, where a mob of white men killed Chinese people, destroyed businesses and torched buildings. A few years later, the U.S. Congress enacted the Chinese Exclusion Act, barring Chinese laborers from entering the country. Wong spent his childhood going back and forth between the United States and China. In 1895, when Wong was in his 20s, he attempted to return to San Francisco but was denied re-entry to the U.S. via the Chinese Exclusion Act. He spent four months detained on a steamship in San Francisco Bay, just miles from his birthplace, while the U.S. government insisted he was not a citizen. Again, Wong was born in 1870, two years after the passage of the 14th Amendment. That made him a U.S. citizen by birthright. The 14th Amendment reads, in part: All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside. Wong was, quite straightforwardly, a U.S. citizen under the law, so he took his denial of citizenship to court in San Francisco. The government argued that Wong who was born in the U.S. to parents who were Chinese citizens was subject to the jurisdiction of another country, China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the case reached the Supreme Court, the justices sided with Wong, 6 to 2. During arguments, Wong and his legal representation knew their best chance to win was to tie his fate to the many thousands of white children of immigrants who, according to the courts final decision, have always been considered and treated as citizens of the United States.The 14th Amendment was ratified in 1868 to address this countrys original sin of slavery and to reverse previous law and court precedent that denied the citizenship and basic humanity of nearly four million formerly enslaved people. But it was Wongs case that made clear that the 14th Amendment applied to almost all people born on American soil, regardless of race or ancestry. (The 14th Amendment didnt apply to Native Americans until the Indian Citizenship Act of 1924.) Despite the clarity of the 14th Amendment and its history, Wongs victory was not a given. Anti-Asian, and specifically anti-Chinese sentiment, was high during the time Wong fought his case. The very same Supreme Court that ruled in Wongs favor had, years earlier, claimed oriental invasion was a menace to our civilization, when upholding the Chinese Exclusion Act. But even in that climate, our constitutional principles shone through. Thats why President-elect Donald Trumps ongoing crusade against birthright citizenship is so alarming. In early December, Trump doubled down on his promise to end birthright citizenship on Day 1 of his presidency. We have to end it, Trump told NBCs Kristen Welker. Trump then suggested that birthright citizenship is uniquely American, telling Welker, Were the only country that has it, you know. But we are not the only country that has birthright citizenship, excluding the U.S., 32 countries have some form of it. It seems that fact is largely unimportant to Trump, as is the long history of precedent that protects birthright citizenship in this country. If Trump chooses to act on his promise to end birthright citizenship, and is legally challenged, the case may wind up in front of the 6-3 conservative supermajority Supreme Court. We do not know how this new court would act but the text and the history of birthright citizenship is clear: If you are born in this country, you are a citizen of this country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Establishing that principle, and enshrining it in the Constitution, was an integral part of repudiating this nations history of slavery. To undermine the Constitutions guarantee of birthright citizenship, in any way, would be a return to some of our nations darkest days and a surrender to the worst impulses in American history. Allison Detzel contributed. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com A state historic marker installed in 2023 now identifies the Shockoe Hill African Burying Ground, where over 20,000 formerly enslaved and free Black people are believed to be buried. (Lenora McQueen) Most Revolutionary War history buffs know the story of Francis Marion, the Continental Army officer called the Swamp Fox for his guerrilla-style attacks that bedeviled British forces in South Carolinas backcountry. But volunteers and historians have identified 560 Revolutionary War battle sites and other places of interest with connections to the states role in the nations founding. While we all love Francis Marion, lets talk about some other people, said Molly Fortune, executive director of SC250, the commission charged with restoring the public memory of the states Revolutionary War legacy. To do that, theyre reviving forgotten historical markers as well as installing new ones and making them all easier to find from the highway or online. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the United States prepares to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, many states are inventorying, mapping and repairing old historical markers, as well as installing hundreds of new roadside signs, plaques and interpretive panels. In South Carolina, the focus is on sharing lesser-known stories of women, children, Native Americans, enslaved and free Black people and even the Loyalists who sympathized with King George III. Beyond re-engaging with lesser-known stories, many states see the national commemoration, known as America250, as an opportunity to refresh their heritage tourism offerings. But its also an occasion to reexamine markers or monuments with questionable historical facts or outdated language. The Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250) was established in 2020 and enshrined in the states legislative branch by the General Assembly in 2023 to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, the Revolutionary War, and the independence of the United States. In addition to the states Department of Historic Resources recently unveiling new markers that represent a more diverse historic narrative, the VA250 commission and its mission have inspired several localities to establish local historic markers that spotlight people and places in Virginia that are significant to Americas origin story. Last month, the Northampton Board of Supervisors adopted a new Historical Local Marker Program (LMP) in collaboration with the Virginia 250 Celebration, Shore Daily News reported Dec. 11. The commission whose chair is Del. Terry Austin, R-Botetourt County, co-chair is Sen. Mamie Locke, D-Hampton, and national honorary chair is Carly Fiorina is composed of over 30 Virginians including legislators, historians, representatives of educational institutions and others. The group works under the theme To form a more perfect union. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2023, the commission hosted the first event in America tied to the nations official semiquincentennial celebration, unveiled a VA250 exhibition in the State Capitol, spurred the creation of Local VA250 Committees in nearly every locality statewide and held four full commission meetings, according to its annual report, among other achievements. Citizens who would like to learn more about their local VA250 committee may find more information here. The commission is hosting a series of signature events through July 2026. The next one will be a commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Fincastle Resolutions, A Salute to Southwest Virginia, at the O. Winston Link & Roanoke History Museum on Jan. 18. The VA250 Mobile Museum Experience will launch on the same day. Find the full list of signature events here, check out this interactive map to find out which events and activities are available in your area, and visit this page to learn about volunteer opportunities. Samantha Willis, Virginia Mercury editor-in-chief The renewed interest in the accuracy or cultural sensitivity of the nations historical markers is part of the wider discourse over who or what belongs on a pedestal or a bronze plaque, and where they should be sited. Since the 2020 murder of George Floyd, those efforts have led to the removal of Confederate monuments as well as the toppling of statues honoring Christopher Columbus and artwork that extols westward expansion without telling the story of the effects on the Indigenous people displaced by settlement. Markers that reflect more inclusive stories make history relevant to more people, said Jason Hanson, the chief creative officer of History Colorado, which operates museums around the state and administers Colorados register of historic places. When history is incomplete or told only by those with the money or power, it strips complexity and nuance from the American story, rendering it less accurate and vibrant. The roadside panels and bronze plaques affixed to buildings are how many people encounter the nations history, Hanson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They really are some of the most accessible and valued history lessons that we have, he said. Satanic imps That history can be lopsided, inaccurate or racist, according to an NPR investigation in 2024 that looked at 180,000 historical markers across the nation. For example, the investigation found that about 70% of markers for historic plantation homes failed to mention that its owners bought and sold enslaved people and used their labor to construct the mansions. Among the problematic examples NPR found was a Michigan marker celebrating a woman who successfully defied frenzied Indians who invaded the premises and lapped from the basement floor whiskey which she had emptied from the barrels. In Texas, a marker praises Primus Kelly, an enslaved Black man, for demonstrating loyalty during the Civil War describing him as typical of most Texas Negro slaves. Hundreds went to war with their masters. Many markers, especially those installed by private individuals, stretch the definition of history. A Massachusetts marker, for example, indicates the former site of a mill operated by a wizard who employed satanic imps to run it at night, while a sign in New Hampshire marks the spot where a Portsmouth couple had a close encounter with a UFO in 1961 and experienced two hours of lost time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Colorado, the state found recently that 96% of listings on its state register of historical sites were places connected primarily to the history of white men, Hanson said. To mark the states 150th anniversary in 2026, Colorado will begin adding 150 new sites and markers highlighting the history of women, people of color, LGBTQ+ people and other historically underrepresented communities. The state will ask community groups to nominate who and what should be on the markers. Markers or monuments often were paid for by people who wanted to tell a particular story, meaning that those with money were the only ones leaving a lasting mark. Even now, historical markers are expensive. In Michigan, for example, large markers cost $4,700, before installation. Some states appropriate money for new markers, but often, local communities must find the cash. But an investment in heritage tourism can and does pay off, said South Carolinas Fortune. She and other public historians have persuaded their state legislature not only to fund new markers but also to pay for new highway signs alerting visitors to historic sites. Its an effort she says boosts the rural communities where many markers are located. People want to walk and listen and hear and connect with their ancestors, Fortune said. And so it allows us to find those accidental tourists. Theyre like, Oh, Ive always wondered about that. And then they leave their money, and they go home. Thats basically it. Its a vehicle for economic development. The whole story In 2023, Virginias Department of Historic Resources began adding dozens of historical markers signifying Green Book sites, places that accommodated Black travelers safely during the Jim Crow era. Theyre also adding nine new markers that, among other things, tell the origin story of Mountain Dew soda, the discriminatory racial history of the first heart transplant in the state, and the backstory of lesser-known Virginians who participated in the Lewis and Clark expedition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Washington State Historical Society began taking a closer look at its markers in 2020, identifying 42 as potentially problematic. Most commemorate white settlement and were placed by a handful of individuals who just decided that these were the places that they were going to put monuments up, said Dylan High, the statewide partnerships coordinator for the agency. In recent months, the historical society has hosted public meetings to examine how the markers portray the history of westward expansion. Among those under review is a 1925 marker with a statement asserting that the civilization of Washington started at Vancouver, the site of an 1806 fort on the Columbia River for the Lewis and Clark expedition, and a subsequent Hudsons Bay Company fur trading post. Such statements erase the presence of Indigenous people who lived in the area for thousands of years before the arrival of European explorers. The narratives werent created in consultation with tribal people of the land, said Polly Olsen, who is Yakama and the tribal liaison for the Burke Museum in Seattle. It comes from a settler narrative of the first schools, the first church, these civilized practices or, you know, civilization began here, Olsen said in an interview with KIRO Newsradio. As theyve traveled the state of Washington, High said, theyve found that most people dont want old markers removed. Sometimes, its impractical: The Vancouver marker sits in a traffic island, unnoticed by most passersby, and would be costly to move. Instead, High said, people want to add new interpretive panels or new markers nearby to tell the whole story of the history. Most people are wary of anything that seems as though it is rewriting history, a phrase the state agency tries to avoid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That kind of implies that the history of what happened somehow is somehow changed, High said. What we are really interested in saying is that there is more to the context of that history of what happened than just what that monument represents or implies. And to be very specific about it, High added, what is not represented is very often the tribes perspective and the experience of our tribal communities around the state. Sometimes, states must point out hard truths, Fortune said. She points to Henry Laurens, a wealthy South Carolinian planter who was president of the Continental Congress in 1777 and 1778 and the only American to be held captive in the Tower of London. He was also a partner in a Charleston firm that brokered the sale of more than 8,000 enslaved Africans. Were in the business of telling history the way it was, Fortune said. So it can be good, bad and ugly. Henry Laurens owned slaves. Thats just a fact. Just say its a fact. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This story originally appeared in Stateline, a nonprofit newsroom which, like The Virginia Mercury, is part of States Newsroom. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX A historical marker in Vancouver, Wash., celebrates the civilization of Washington, by white explorers, erasing the presence of Indigenous people who lived in the area for thousands of years. As the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, many states are reexamining markers with questionable historical facts or outdated language. (Erika Bolstad | Stateline) Most Revolutionary War history buffs know the story of Francis Marion, the Continental Army officer called the Swamp Fox for his guerrilla-style attacks that bedeviled British forces in South Carolinas backcountry. But volunteers and historians have identified 560 Revolutionary War battle sites and other places of interest with connections to the states role in the nations founding. While we all love Francis Marion, lets talk about some other people, said Molly Fortune, executive director of SC250, the commission charged with restoring the public memory of the states Revolutionary War legacy. To do that, theyre reviving forgotten historical markers as well as installing new ones and making them all easier to find from the highway or online. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the United States prepares to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, many states are inventorying, mapping and repairing old historical markers, as well as installing hundreds of new roadside signs, plaques and interpretive panels. In South Carolina, the focus is on sharing lesser-known stories of women, children, Native Americans, enslaved and free Black people and even the Loyalists who sympathized with King George III. Beyond re-engaging with lesser-known stories, many states see the national commemoration, known as America250, as an opportunity to refresh their heritage tourism offerings. But its also an occasion to reexamine markers or monuments with questionable historical facts or outdated language. The renewed interest in the accuracy or cultural sensitivity of the nations historical markers is part of the wider discourse over who or what belongs on a pedestal or a bronze plaque, and where they should be sited. Since the 2020 murder of George Floyd, those efforts have led to the removal of Confederate monuments as well as the toppling of statues honoring Christopher Columbus and artwork that extols westward expansion without telling the story of the effects on the Indigenous people displaced by settlement. Markers that reflect more inclusive stories make history relevant to more people, said Jason Hanson, the chief creative officer of History Colorado, which operates museums around the state and administers Colorados register of historic places. When history is incomplete or told only by those with the money or power, it strips complexity and nuance from the American story, rendering it less accurate and vibrant. The roadside panels and bronze plaques affixed to buildings are how many people encounter the nations history, Hanson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They really are some of the most accessible and valued history lessons that we have, he said. Satanic imps That history can be lopsided, inaccurate or racist, according to an NPR investigation in 2024 that looked at 180,000 historical markers across the nation. For example, the investigation found that about 70% of markers for historic plantation homes failed to mention that its owners bought and sold enslaved people and used their labor to construct the mansions. Among the problematic examples NPR found was a Michigan marker celebrating a woman who successfully defied frenzied Indians who invaded the premises and lapped from the basement floor whiskey which she had emptied from the barrels. In Texas, a marker praises Primus Kelly, an enslaved Black man, for demonstrating loyalty during the Civil War describing him as typical of most Texas Negro slaves. Hundreds went to war with their masters. Many markers, especially those installed by private individuals, stretch the definition of history. A Massachusetts marker, for example, indicates the former site of a mill operated by a wizard who employed satanic imps to run it at night, while a sign in New Hampshire marks the spot where a Portsmouth couple had a close encounter with a UFO in 1961 and experienced two hours of lost time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Colorado, the state found recently that 96% of listings on its state register of historical sites were places connected primarily to the history of white men, Hanson said. To mark the states 150th anniversary in 2026, Colorado will begin adding 150 new sites and markers highlighting the history of women, people of color, LGBTQ+ people and other historically underrepresented communities. The state will ask community groups to nominate who and what should be on the markers. Markers or monuments often were paid for by people who wanted to tell a particular story, meaning that those with money were the only ones leaving a lasting mark. Even now, historical markers are expensive. In Michigan, for example, large markers cost $4,700, before installation. Some states appropriate money for new markers, but often, local communities must find the cash. But an investment in heritage tourism can and does pay off, said South Carolinas Fortune. She and other public historians have persuaded their state legislature not only to fund new markers but also to pay for new highway signs alerting visitors to historic sites. Its an effort she says boosts the rural communities where many markers are located. People want to walk and listen and hear and connect with their ancestors, Fortune said. And so it allows us to find those accidental tourists. Theyre like, Oh, Ive always wondered about that. And then they leave their money, and they go home. Thats basically it. Its a vehicle for economic development. The whole story In 2023, Virginias Department of Historic Resources began adding dozens of historical markers signifying Green Book sites, places that accommodated Black travelers safely during the Jim Crow era. Theyre also adding nine new markers that, among other things, tell the origin story of Mountain Dew soda, the discriminatory racial history of the first heart transplant in the state, and the backstory of lesser-known Virginians who participated in the Lewis and Clark expedition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Washington State Historical Society began taking a closer look at its markers in 2020, identifying 42 as potentially problematic. Most commemorate white settlement and were placed by a handful of individuals who just decided that these were the places that they were going to put monuments up, said Dylan High, the statewide partnerships coordinator for the agency. In recent months, the historical society has hosted public meetings to examine how the markers portray the history of westward expansion. Among those under review is a 1925 marker with a statement asserting that the civilization of Washington started at Vancouver, the site of an 1806 fort on the Columbia River for the Lewis and Clark expedition, and a subsequent Hudsons Bay Company fur trading post. Such statements erase the presence of Indigenous people who lived in the area for thousands of years before the arrival of European explorers. The narratives werent created in consultation with tribal people of the land, said Polly Olsen, who is Yakama and the tribal liaison for the Burke Museum in Seattle. It comes from a settler narrative of the first schools, the first church, these civilized practices or, you know, civilization began here, Olsen said in an interview with KIRO Newsradio. Let's talk about some other people. Molly Fortune, executive director of SC250 As theyve traveled the state of Washington, High said, theyve found that most people dont want old markers removed. Sometimes, its impractical: The Vancouver marker sits in a traffic island, unnoticed by most passersby, and would be costly to move. Instead, High said, people want to add new interpretive panels or new markers nearby to tell the whole story of the history. Most people are wary of anything that seems as though it is rewriting history, a phrase the state agency tries to avoid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That kind of implies that the history of what happened somehow is somehow changed, High said. What we are really interested in saying is that there is more to the context of that history of what happened than just what that monument represents or implies. And to be very specific about it, High added, what is not represented is very often the tribes perspective and the experience of our tribal communities around the state. Sometimes, states must point out hard truths, Fortune said. She points to Henry Laurens, a wealthy South Carolinian planter who was president of the Continental Congress in 1777 and 1778 and the only American to be held captive in the Tower of London. He was also a partner in a Charleston firm that brokered the sale of more than 8,000 enslaved Africans. Were in the business of telling history the way it was, Fortune said. So it can be good, bad and ugly. Henry Laurens owned slaves. Thats just a fact. Just say its a fact. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX A historical marker in Vancouver, Wash., celebrates the civilization of Washington, by white explorers, erasing the presence of Indigenous people who lived in the area for thousands of years. As the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, many states are reexamining markers with questionable historical facts or outdated language. (Erika Bolstad/Stateline) Most Revolutionary War history buffs know the story of Francis Marion, the Continental Army officer called the Swamp Fox for his guerrilla-style attacks that bedeviled British forces in South Carolinas backcountry. But volunteers and historians have identified 560 Revolutionary War battle sites and other places of interest with connections to the states role in the nations founding. While we all love Francis Marion, lets talk about some other people, said Molly Fortune, executive director of SC250, the commission charged with restoring the public memory of the states Revolutionary War legacy. To do that, theyre reviving forgotten historical markers as well as installing new ones and making them all easier to find from the highway or online. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the United States prepares to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, many states are inventorying, mapping and repairing old historical markers, as well as installing hundreds of new roadside signs, plaques and interpretive panels. In South Carolina, the focus is on sharing lesser-known stories of women, children, Native Americans, enslaved and free Black people and even the Loyalists who sympathized with King George III. Beyond re-engaging with lesser-known stories, many states see the national commemoration, known as America250, as an opportunity to refresh their heritage tourism offerings. But its also an occasion to reexamine markers or monuments with questionable historical facts or outdated language. The renewed interest in the accuracy or cultural sensitivity of the nations historical markers is part of the wider discourse over who or what belongs on a pedestal or a bronze plaque, and where they should be sited. Since the 2020 murder of George Floyd, those efforts have led to the removal of Confederate monuments as well as the toppling of statues honoring Christopher Columbus and artwork that extols westward expansion without telling the story of the effects on the Indigenous people displaced by settlement. Markers that reflect more inclusive stories make history relevant to more people, said Jason Hanson, the chief creative officer of History Colorado, which operates museums around the state and administers Colorados register of historic places. When history is incomplete or told only by those with the money or power, it strips complexity and nuance from the American story, rendering it less accurate and vibrant. The roadside panels and bronze plaques affixed to buildings are how many people encounter the nations history, Hanson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They really are some of the most accessible and valued history lessons that we have, he said. Satanic imps That history can be lopsided, inaccurate or racist, according to an NPR investigation in 2024 that looked at 180,000 historical markers across the nation. For example, the investigation found that about 70% of markers for historic plantation homes failed to mention that its owners bought and sold enslaved people and used their labor to construct the mansions. Among the problematic examples NPR found was a Michigan marker celebrating a woman who successfully defied frenzied Indians who invaded the premises and lapped from the basement floor whiskey which she had emptied from the barrels. In Texas, a marker praises Primus Kelly, an enslaved Black man, for demonstrating loyalty during the Civil War describing him as typical of most Texas Negro slaves. Hundreds went to war with their masters. Many markers, especially those installed by private individuals, stretch the definition of history. A Massachusetts marker, for example, indicates the former site of a mill operated by a wizard who employed satanic imps to run it at night, while a sign in New Hampshire marks the spot where a Portsmouth couple had a close encounter with a UFO in 1961 and experienced two hours of lost time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Colorado, the state found recently that 96% of listings on its state register of historical sites were places connected primarily to the history of white men, Hanson said. To mark the states 150th anniversary in 2026, Colorado will begin adding 150 new sites and markers highlighting the history of women, people of color, LGBTQ+ people and other historically underrepresented communities. The state will ask community groups to nominate who and what should be on the markers. Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org. Markers or monuments often were paid for by people who wanted to tell a particular story, meaning that those with money were the only ones leaving a lasting mark. Even now, historical markers are expensive. In Michigan, for example, large markers cost $4,700, before installation. Some states appropriate money for new markers, but often, local communities must find the cash. But an investment in heritage tourism can and does pay off, said South Carolinas Fortune. She and other public historians have persuaded their state legislature not only to fund new markers but also to pay for new highway signs alerting visitors to historic sites. Its an effort she says boosts the rural communities where many markers are located. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People want to walk and listen and hear and connect with their ancestors, Fortune said. And so it allows us to find those accidental tourists. Theyre like, Oh, Ive always wondered about that. And then they leave their money, and they go home. Thats basically it. Its a vehicle for economic development. The whole story In 2023, Virginias Department of Historic Resources began adding dozens of historical markers signifying Green Book sites, places that accommodated Black travelers safely during the Jim Crow era. Theyre also adding nine new markers that, among other things, tell the origin story of Mountain Dew soda, the discriminatory racial history of the first heart transplant in the state, and the backstory of lesser-known Virginians who participated in the Lewis and Clark expedition. The Washington State Historical Society began taking a closer look at its markers in 2020, identifying 42 as potentially problematic. Most commemorate white settlement and were placed by a handful of individuals who just decided that these were the places that they were going to put monuments up, said Dylan High, the statewide partnerships coordinator for the agency. In recent months, the historical society has hosted public meetings to examine how the markers portray the history of westward expansion. Among those under review is a 1925 marker with a statement asserting that the civilization of Washington started at Vancouver, the site of an 1806 fort on the Columbia River for the Lewis and Clark expedition, and a subsequent Hudsons Bay Company fur trading post. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Such statements erase the presence of Indigenous people who lived in the area for thousands of years before the arrival of European explorers. The narratives werent created in consultation with tribal people of the land, said Polly Olsen, who is Yakama and the tribal liaison for the Burke Museum in Seattle. It comes from a settler narrative of the first schools, the first church, these civilized practices or, you know, civilization began here, Olsen said in an interview with KIRO Newsradio. As theyve traveled the state of Washington, High said, theyve found that most people dont want old markers removed. Sometimes, its impractical: The Vancouver marker sits in a traffic island, unnoticed by most passersby, and would be costly to move. Instead, High said, people want to add new interpretive panels or new markers nearby to tell the whole story of the history. Most people are wary of anything that seems as though it is rewriting history, a phrase the state agency tries to avoid. That kind of implies that the history of what happened somehow is somehow changed, High said. What we are really interested in saying is that there is more to the context of that history of what happened than just what that monument represents or implies. And to be very specific about it, High added, what is not represented is very often the tribes perspective and the experience of our tribal communities around the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sometimes, states must point out hard truths, Fortune said. She points to Henry Laurens, a wealthy South Carolinian planter who was president of the Continental Congress in 1777 and 1778 and the only American to be held captive in the Tower of London. He was also a partner in a Charleston firm that brokered the sale of more than 8,000 enslaved Africans. Were in the business of telling history the way it was, Fortune said. So it can be good, bad and ugly. Henry Laurens owned slaves. Thats just a fact. Just say its a fact. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The Industrial Revolution was undeniably a major turning point in history. Beginning in the late 1700s, human environmental impacts reached previously impossible new heights. Yet pollution wasnt invented in the 18th century. Humans have been mucking up Earth for far longer, to our own detriment, as exemplified by new research linking lead air pollution to cognitive losses during the Pax Romana. People living during the golden age of the Roman Empire experienced an average 2.5 to 3 point reduction in IQ due to atmospheric lead, according to a study published January 6 in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The new research adds context to a long-standing debate about the role lead pollution and poisoning may have played in the collapse of the Roman Empire. Some historians have argued that Roman elites and emperors who purportedly displayed odd, often violent behavior like Caligula and Nero were actually suffering from lead poisoning, and thus that lead and the erratic actions it caused critically undermined societal stability. The study doesnt prove, one way or the other, if or how the fall of Rome was linked to lead. However, it does demonstrate that environmental health and the effects of pollution on people has roots stretching back millenia. [ Related: Childhood leaded gasoline exposure damaged Americans mental health ] Using Arctic ice cores, atmospheric modeling, epidemiological data, and previously published health and cognition studies, the scientists estimate fluctuating levels of lead air pollution over centuries, how that likely translated to blood lead levels in people, and how those blood lead levels might have impacted cognitive capacity in denizens of the Roman Empire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The research is not the first to find a notable peak of lead pollution and human lead exposure during Roman times, lots of previous work has established the prevalence of lead contamination in antiquity through analysis of ice and peat cores, skeletal remains, and ancient infrastructure. But the study is unique for quantifying the effects of that Roman-era pollution on blood lead levels and IQ losses. The authors estimate that children living during the 200-year Pax Romana (between about 27 BCE and 180 CE) would have had average blood lead levels of about 3.4 micrograms per deciliter (2.4 mcg/dl above Neolithic background levels), from air pollution alone, and that those levels would have translated to a 2.5-3 point drop in IQ levels, population-wide. Though IQ is a flawed metric, its one of the best scientific shorthands available for tracking the population-level consequences of something like lead. The metal is a well-established neurotoxin, known to be particularly harmful to infants and children. Even low and moderate levels of lead exposure can lead to lifelong health consequences, including developmental delays, learning disabilities, behavioral changes, immunosuppression, heart disease, organ damage, pregnancy complications, and more. There is no level of lead exposure considered safe, according to the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But when lead permeates the environment, avoiding it is impossible. There were many sources of potential lead exposure in the Roman Empirefrom utensils and cookware to water pipes and wine. All likely contributed to the lead burden borne by the people of the day. Though none would have been as far reaching as air pollution, which would have exposed even those in isolated rural areas to the toxin. Mining and smelting metal ores, particularly the galena ore used as a source for the silver in Roman coins, produced lead emissions that spread far and wide across the Roman Empire. To my knowledge, its the first large-scale pollution event from industrial activities, says Joe McConnell, lead study author and a research professor and hydrologist at the Desert Research Institute in Nevada. Our objective here was to try to understand the potential health impacts resulting from [that], he adds. To do so, he applied his expertise in ice core analysis to assess samples from three different Arctic sites. Ice cores serve as a frozen record of atmospheric conditions throughout history because particles that circulate in the air eventually fallsome onto glaciers and ice sheets, where theyre preserved in a literal timeline. Using these measurements of lead deposited in the Arctic throughout the Roman era, McConnell and his colleagues then applied atmospheric models (the same kind used by climate scientists) to reverse engineer estimates of how much lead must have been circulating in the air over the Roman Empire, thousands of kilometers away from Greenland and Russia where the samples were collected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They ran two different model scenarios: one assuming most of the lead pollution originated from a known mining region in present-day southern Spain, and the second assuming more dispersed sources of lead emissions from across the empire. Both scenarios resulted in similar estimates of atmospheric lead. From there, the interdisciplinary research team turned to contemporary environmental health analyses that establish the relationship between levels of lead in the air and in peoples blood. Finally, they estimated how those levels may have impacted cognitive ability, using data on IQ loss from public health research. The findings are that this lead pollution resulted in clear effects, not only for the air, but also for blood lead levels and cognitive deficits, says McConnell. The levels of atmospheric lead pollution documented in the study are less than the peak of global lead pollution reached in the 20th century, when leaded gasoline use was widespread. But its still a notable and measurable effect, he says. Our data suggests that lead pollution during the 180 years of the peak of the Roman Empire had about one-third as much of an impact on cognitive decline as during the height of 20th century exposure, McConnell explains. The idea that 2,000 years ago, humans were polluting the continent of Europe at a third the level of modern industry is pretty surprising. An awful lot of environmental research assumes that pre-industrial was a pristine world. It was not. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lead exposure from air pollution, as calculated in the study, represents a lower limit of what people were realistically encountering, McConnell adds. In locations nearby mining or smelting operations, air pollution would have been much more intense. And through water, food, and household items, many people living in the Roman empire likely had higher blood lead levels and thus incurred even more harm. [ Related: Without humans, what would happen to Earth? ] Its interesting work, I agree with what theyre trying to do, says Sean Scott, a chemist at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory who has previously studied lead levels in the Roman Era through skeletal remains. Though Scott points out that, by combining estimates and models the researchers have magnified the unreliability inherent in their methods. Im sure that these measurements are very good, but once you make a leap from ice core to human blood, and then to intelligence quotient, thats going to have uncertainty, he says. Granted, thats the best they can do, he adds. McConnell acknowledges this limitation. It would be great if going forward the linkages between background air pollution, childhood blood lead levels, and health were better quantified, he says. It would also be ideal to have ways of quantifying the other health impacts of lead and industrial pollutants, he notes. Still, the new research stands as a sketch of unprecedented environmental change during an endlessly fascinating time in human history, says Scott. It may be impossible to know exactly what precipitated the fall of the Roman Empire (most probably it was not any single thing, say both Scott and McConnell). But perhaps studying the pollution of the era could get people considering the parallels between history and our present-day. When you study the Roman population and the historic environmental science of that, and then you look around at modern times, it changes the way you see the world, Scott says. Likely, Romans didnt fully grasp the consequences of their silver smelting. It makes you wonder what we are doing currently that we dont understand. Para mirar este video en espanol, ir al fin del articulo. TAYLORSVILLE, Utah (ABC4) On Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, Angeles de Utah held its fifth annual Jugueton a toy drive to make sure kids in need have at least one present to open during the holidays in Taylorsville. Its a dream, since I was little, Ana Villa, co-founder of Angeles de Utah said, reflecting on the days she and her sister celebrated Three Kings Day in Mexico with no new toys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a memory that inspired Villa to start Angeles de Utah. Highly disappointing: Visitor, patrollers speak on impact of Park City ski patrol strike I never had a new toy, Villa said, So, now when I see those kids happy to have toys or to get one of the big prizes, its amazing. It feels really, really good. By 3 p.m., the group had given out 600 toys. The event, however, wasnt only about the gifts. They also presented resources on mental health, home buying, and the very hot topic of immigration. Villa explained, Shes going to talk to our Hispanic community about all the new laws [that] our new president is trying to implement. Were going to see how it is going to motivate our community to become more legal and to do better things for, for the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Angeles de Utah will hold another event on Monday, January 6 at the 801 Convention Center, where they will hand out clothes and shoes to adults as well. More information can be found on the groups Facebook page. Mira el cuento en espanol en este video aqui: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Donald Trump is facing criticism for premiering a documentary over the weekend at Mar-a-Lago about an allied lawyer who helped him strategize about how to overturn the 2020 election results. The film, The Eastman Dilemma: Lawfare of Justice, profiles lawyer John Eastman, who helped Donald Trump formulate an unprecedented, illegal plan to use Congress and the vice-president to overturn the certification of the 2020 election results. The documentary examines growing evidence that a two-tiered justice system has emerged, where conservative figures face severe penalties, according to its creators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other election deniers were also at the event, including his former national security adviser Michael Flynn, former lawyer Rudy Giuliani and former trade official Peter Navarro, who helped devise a separate plan from Eastmans to reject the 2020 results and later spent time in prison for being in contempt of the January 6 congressional committee. The event, which was closed to the press, prompted outrage from panelists on MSNBCs The Weekend. John Eastman advised Donald Trump that Mike Pence could halt certification. Trump is facing criticsm for ailing a documentary about the effort (REUTERS) This is sickening!" Symone Sanders-Townsend said on Sunday. "Those people are not patriots," she added. "What Donald Trump did last night is a disgrace to the country. Its a disgrace to the Constitution, and the fact that they didnt tell anybody about it lets you know that they knew what they were doing was untoward. They didnt want to put a spotlight on it, but they wanted to do it anyway." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Independent has contacted the Trump transition team for comment. During the event, Trump reportedly praised Eastman. "Im a big fan of John Eastman, MSNBC reported Trump as saying. Yknow, he was right. He happened to be right. Thats why they changed the law and nobody wants to talk about that...They said hes not allowed to do it, hes not allowed to do it, and they convinced him hes not allowed to do it our vice president then right after the election they changed the law so he cant do it. Trump says he skipped dessert to come down to the ballroom at Mar-a-Lago to catch a screening of "The Eastman Dilemma documentary. He brought Italy's prime minister, Giorgia Meloni with him to watch the film, which is billed as being about "how conservatives have been pic.twitter.com/EqoFQ1kfWo Jennifer Jacobs (@JenniferJJacobs) January 5, 2025 The comments were a reference to President Biden in 2022 signing changes to the archaic Electoral Count Act, clarifying that the vice president plays a ceremonial role and that each state only has one lawful slate of electors. The reforms both directly answered to unprecedented tactics Trump used to attempt to overturn the 2020 results. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Saturday premiere, which coincided with a visit from Italian Prime Minister Giogia Meloni, came just two days before January 6, both the anniversary of the pro-Trump insurrection at the U.S. Capitol and the federally mandated date on which Kamala Harris will certify the 2024 election results. Eastman is currently among the Trump allies being prosecuted in Georgia and Arizona for their alleged roles in conspiracies to interfere with the 2020 election process, and a judge recommended this year he be disbarred from practicing law in California. Eastman failed to uphold his primary duty of honesty and breached his ethical obligations by presenting falsehoods to bolster his legal arguments, the judge in California wrote. Eastman has pleaded not guilty in both state cases, and has attempted to appeal the disbarment process. The Connecticut Department of Agriculture investigation found that the Cheshire Animal Control allegedly violated several state regulations and statutes according to its release of its Dec. 24 consent order. The facility has been in the spotlight over the past few months for housing more than two dozen dogs seized in 2022 in allegedly poor conditions. The consent order demands changes to be made at the Cheshire Animal Control facility at 500 Highland Avenue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cheshire Animal Control Officer April Leiler said she had no comment on the report and referred inquiries to Cheshire Town Manager Sean Kimball. An email and voicemail to Kimball were not immediately returned. A voicemail to Chief Neil Dryfe of the Cheshire Police Department was also not returned in time for this story. The six alleged violations the report noted include that the animals at the dog pound were also placed in cages that were too small, and didnt meet minimum size requirements, while primary enclosures were cleaned. Cheshire Animal Control faces scrutiny over alleged poor conditions at pound The Connecticut Department of Agriculture report also cited necessary repairs including a broken chain link fence and eight trough covers that were not properly installed and could cause the animals potential injuries. The report also called for repairs of peeling and cracking floor surface coating, which prevents them from being cleaned properly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report also found that food wasnt stored properly, and some prescription food was sitting on a wet floor. The facility was also cited for mice infestation throughout the facility and for not setting up a proper isolation area. There were five alleged animal welfare violations in the report, including failing to groom animals as needed for health reasons; failure to provide necessary veterinarian care; failure to protect animals from becoming wet or exposed to chemicals while enclosures are being cleaned and disinfected; resting surfaces were not dried before allowing animals to use them; and failure to arrange proper holding of wildlife that needed to be transferred to a wildlife rehabilitation facility. The report also requires that the facility submit monthly progress reports that document the progress. Following our inspection, CT DoAg found that the Town of Cheshire Animal Control facility had apparent violation of several statutory and regulatory requirements, the department said in a statement. As of December 24, 2024, the town has agreed to implement provisions outlined in a Consent Order to bring the facility and its operations into full compliance. These provisions include necessary changes in management and oversight, improvements in training, enhancements in animal care protocols, needed facility repairs and monthly progress reports documenting the improvements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CT DoAg is fully committed to ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of animals within the care of animal control facilities in the state, the statement continued. To this end, we will continue to monitor the Town of Cheshire Animal Control facility on a monthly basis, ensuring that all corrective actions are completed to meet the required standards. We appreciate the cooperation of the Town of Cheshire in addressing these important issues, and we remain dedicated to maintaining transparency throughout this process. We are confident that these steps will help ensure that the animals housed at the facility receive the care they deserve and that the facility operates in full compliance with state regulations. Animal advocates helped push for the investigation and want to see more change. Longtime Cheshire resident Jeen Melendez started the private Facebook group Advocacy For the Dogs at Cheshire Animal Shelter for Over Two Years six weeks ago. Now, the Facebook group has grown to more than 700 members. Melendez said she has tried to do her part after the cause was started by Desmonds Army Animal Law Advocates in August. Melendez, who said her skill set is forensic record review, said she created the group to help get accountability for the animals in Cheshire. Shortly after the group started, Melendez said she has received an outpouring of information from the public, including texts and photos of the outrageous things that happened to these dogs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The DoAG didnt articulate everything that went on at the pound, Melendez alleged. We had pictures of when the dog went in and photos two years later. There was no grooming. These were small, long-haired animals and their nails were curved into their paws. Their eyes were crusted shut. Two dogs were euthanized. The situation was terrible. There were so many failures. You cant unsee the pictures, she claimed. The organization held a rally on Dec. 10, and the report from the Connecticut Department of Agriculture came out two weeks later. Melendez said the rally drew more than 100 supporters. Days prior to the meeting, the Cheshire Police Department said in a news release that on Dec. 6, the dogs were no longer in Cheshire Animal Control custody and were adopted. We were looking for some transparency, accountability and change and we got some transparency but there was more that could be done and try to make things safer and better for everyone, Melendez said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Melendez is helping to start a non-profit for animal control officers and whistle blowers to go to if they choose to report alleged animal abuse. She plans to have the 501c3 up and running sometime in this month. We want to push for this to never happen again and not just here in Cheshire but throughout the state, Melendez said. Its hard to imagine in an affluent town like Cheshire in an affluent state like Connecticut these types of things happen. Melendez said the next rally will coincide with the next Cheshire Town Council meeting on Jan. 14. At that meeting we are going to be bringing up accountability, and we will see what the town says, Melendez said. We are going to keep pushing for the dogs A lot of people have gone above and beyond for us to get this far. This is a big village, and I couldnt do this without the village, Melendez said. Its one of those stories that unites everyone. There are not a lot of things that bring such a diverse group together. The attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, may be receding into history, but on its fourth anniversary Monday, Democrats tried to make sure no one forgets it. On the same day a joint session of Congress formally certified President-elect Donald Trumps 2024 election victory, many Democrats on social media and in person marked the day in somber and sometimes bitter terms. Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) said the expected quiet at the U.S. Capitol Monday, under heavy security measures as well as a blanket of overnight snow, should not be taken for granted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its because today in America, tragically, only one party respects elections. The other party uses and justifies violence to keep power, he said in a post. Had Harris won, today likely would have been another bloodbath. Another Connecticut lawmaker, Democratic Rep. Jim Himes, echoed Murphy. Im feeling angry about the fact that this is going to be strawberry ice cream and puppies because Trump won, and if Trump had lost wed be in body armor and protected by the 82nd Airborne right now, Himes told HuffPost. And that tells you something about the difference between the two parties. Trump has promised to free at least some of the convicted Jan. 6 attackers, even though, according to a HuffPost analysis, more than a majority of those in jail assaulted a police officer, and 83% of those serving a year or longer sentence were convicted of a violent attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Trump has described the attack on the Capitol as peaceful, the Justice Department has charged more than 1,500 people for crimes on Jan. 6, 2021, and in the days and weeks leading up to it. Four years ago today, our nation watched in horror as a terrorist mob stormed the Capitol grounds and desecrated our Temple of Democracy in a violent attempt to subvert the peaceful transfer of power, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), who led the House at the time of the 2021 insurrection, said in a statement. She thanked law enforcement for protecting lawmakers and the Capitol from the attackers and said she and her colleagues did the right thing by going back into session to certify Joe Bidens election later that day and into the evening. The parable of January 6th reminds us that our precious democratic institutions are only as strong as the courage and commitment of those entrusted with their care. On January 6th, we gave proof through the night that our Flag was still there by returning to the Capitol to certify the election results and demonstrate to America and the world that our Democracy prevailed, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked by HuffPost about the contrast between the calm heading into Mondays proceedings and the atmosphere of Jan. 6, 2021, Pelosis successor, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), said simply, Speaks for itself. Jeffries had riled up House Republicans Friday when, during a ceremonial observance of Speaker Mike Johnson being reelected to his post, he said Democrats acknowledged that Trump had won legitimately, but added a qualifier after Republicans gave him a standing ovation. Thank you for that very generous applause, Jeffries said. Its OK. There are no election deniers on our side of the aisle. That line saw House Republicans sit down and Democrats stand up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Jeffries counterpart in the Senate Democratic caucus, posted a picture of himself looking at the clerks vote tally sheet from that day framed on a wall. I keep this vote tally card as a reminder of one of my proudest moments: When the majority of us united to finish the job of certifying the election and uphold our oaths to the Constitution. Other Democrats also took to social media on Monday to post their personal experiences of the attack, in which several said they feared for their lives. Rep. Darren Soto (D-Fla.) posted a picture showing himself sheltering behind a row of seats in the gallery overlooking the House floor when police officers urged lawmakers to take cover as the attackers made their way into the Capitol. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Four years ago today, I was trapped in the House Chamber as insurrectionists stormed the Capitol & tried to overturn election results, Soto wrote. Today, I will return to the House Chamber to certify the 2024 results. House Democrats honor the Constitution & accept the will of the people. I was here, in the Capitol even after most members were evacuated, I was locked down in my office. I heard the insurrectionists storming the building, shouting kill the infidels, and banging on my door trying to get in, said Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.), the top Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Committee, in a post. Our democracy is only as strong as our commitment to it. If we want to stay a country where our voices and our votes not brute force determine our future, then we have to defend the right to vote and our democratic institutions, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former members of Congress who were at the Capitol on Jan. 6 also posted. 4 years ago I was in the house gallery holding a gas mask in my hands, crawling under brass railings and lying on the floor as a gunshot rang through the air. I feared I would die in our temple of democracy, posted Jackie Speier, a former Democratic representative from California. We can never forget what happened on 1/6 was an attempted coup, she said. Arthur Delaney contributed reporting. This file photo taken on Sept. 29, 2024 shows Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer (R) walking to a polling station in Vienna, Austria. (Xinhua/He Canling) Austrian president will meet the far-right Freedom Party over the formation of a new government following collapse of coalition talks among the People's Party, the Social Democratic Party and the NEOS. VIENNA, Jan. 5 (Xinhua) -- Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen said Sunday that he would meet the Freedom Party' leader Herbert Kickl on Monday to discuss the formation of a new government while the conservative People's Party softened its stance, saying it is now open to talks with the far-right party. The move came after the collapse of three-party coalition talks among the People's Party, the Social Democratic Party and the NEOS party and later the failure of two-party negotiations following the NEOS' withdrawal. On Saturday, Karl Nehammer announced his resignation as chancellor of the Austrian caretaker government and chairman of the People's Party after the coalition talks fell apart. Van der Bellen has said that he would appoint an interim chancellor in the coming week. Leader of Austria's Freedom Party Herbert Kickl (C) celebrates with supporters in Vienna, Austria, Sept. 29, 2024. (Xinhua/He Canling) Nehammer had repeatedly ruled out the possibility of a coalition with the Freedom Party under Kickl's leadership after the far-right party came first in Austria's parliamentary election in September. Van der Bellen said on Sunday he was informed by Nehammer that "the voices within the People's Party that rule out cooperation with Kickl have become quieter," which opens up the path for a coalition between the People's Party and the Freedom Party. However, the Austrian president did not confirm that he would give the Freedom Party a mandate to form a new government, according to Austrian news agency APA. The People's Party on Sunday appointed its secretary-general Christian Stocker to succeed Nehammer as its interim leader. Stocker, a sharp critic of Kickl for months, told a press conference later that day that his party would be willing to accept an offer of coalition negotiations from the Freedom Party. Stocker defended the U-turn citing the changed situation after the failure of coalition talks with the Social Democratic Party, stressing that it is "about the country getting a stable government and not wasting time with election campaigns," APA reported. The failed three-party coalition talks had dragged on since mid-November following Van der Bellen's decision in October to task the People's Party with forming a government. In September's parliamentary election, the Freedom Party came first with around 29 percent of the vote, followed by the People's Party and the Social Democratic Party with 26.3 percent and 21.1 percent respectively. Although the Freedom Party won the parliamentary presidency, it had been unable to find coalition partners to form a government. Another round of gusty Santa Ana winds are headed to Southern California, increasing the risk for a rapidly spreading wildfire. Breezy today and then well start seeing some really windy conditions tomorrow morning and then on Tuesday night into Wednesday and Thursday, really strong winds, KTLA meteorologist Henry DiCarlo said Monday. (National Weather Service) Wind gusts between 50 to 80 mph are possible for parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties with the chance for isolated 80 to 100 mph gusts in the mountain and foothill areas, according to the National Weather Service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Widespread damaging winds and low humidities will likely cause fire starts to rapidly grow in size with extreme fire behavior, the Weather Service stated. Caution was urged when using any potential ignition sources. The Weather Service also warned motorists to be on the lookout for downed trees and residents to be prepared for possible power outages. The warnings come about a month after the Franklin Fire erupted in Malibu amid similar conditions. The wildfire spread quickly before scorching more than 4,000 acres and destroying several homes. Malibu resident stays behind to save homes from Franklin Fire Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here we go again. Another wind event So, fire concerns are going to be the main story for us, Henry said. Wind advisories, watches and warnings are in effect for much of Southern California through Wednesday with fire watches and warnings also in place. Temperatures are also expected to drop several degrees over the next few days. I looked earlier trying to find a hint of a storm. But the only thing I found is a hint of another Santa Ana event coming early next week, Henry said of the long-term forecast. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. The body of an anti-corruption journalist has been found in a septic tank at a property in central India. Mukesh Chandrakar, a freelancer with a popular YouTube channel, had been reported missing after he was last seen on New Years Day. The 32-year-olds body was discovered on Friday in the septic tank concealed with a freshly placed concrete slab in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh. Police have arrested four suspects, including three of Mr Chandrakars relatives, in connection with his death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A post mortem examination found Mr Chandrakar suffered multiple wounds, including blunt-force injuries to his head and ribs, and a broken neck. A total of 15 injury marks were found on his head, his liver was cut into four pieces and his heart was ripped out. The killing has sparked outrage and highlighted the dangers faced by journalists in the country. Mr Chandrakar was last seen leaving his home in Bijapur on New Years Day. His brother, Yukesh, filed a missing person report with the police on Jan 2. Corruption allegations Police suspect the killing was linked to the journalists recent reporting on corruption in a 12 million road construction project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Suresh Chandrakar, the projects contractor and the victims cousin, allegedly amassed substantial wealth in recent years. He transitioned from earning a modest 1,500 rupees (14) per month as a police constable to spending 2 million on a wedding where Bollywood performers entertained guests and the bride arrived by helicopter. According to investigators, Sureshs brother, Ritesh, invited their cousin Mr Chandrakar to a New Year party on the night of Jan 1. They said that the two brothers had a close relationship and frequently met at the property where the journalists body was found. Despite their apparent closeness, Mr Chandrakars work exposing corruption in the road project had strained the relationship. Mukesh Chandrakar had reported on alleged corruption in a 12 million road construction project While no direct threats were made to his family, tensions reportedly simmered after he launched his investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Suspicions were raised after Mr Chandrakars phone went offline shortly after the party. Police Supt Jitendra Singh Yadav said: We tracked his last mobile location to Sureshs compound, where the septic tanks recent concretisation aroused suspicion. Breaking it open revealed Mukeshs body. The doctor who performed the post mortem examination described it as the most brutal murder he had encountered in his 12-year career. Supt Yadav added: We have arrested Suresh, Ritesh, construction supervisor Mahendra Ramteke, and a relative, Dinesh Chandrakar, in connection with the crime. Dark chapter in press history The Press Council of India has called for a report from the state government, while journalists in the region have staged protests demanding justice and better protection for reporters in the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Chandrakars YouTube channel, Bastar Junction, has more than 160,000 subscribers. It features his last report on Dec 23, highlighting corruption and public grievances in Chhattisgarhs Naxal-affected areas. His death underscores the growing dangers for journalists in India, ranked 159th on the World Press Freedom Index. Vishnu Deo Sai, the chief minister of Chhattisgarh, condemned his killing and vowed the harshest punishment for those involved. Manish Gupta, president of the Bastar Journalist Association, also described it as a dark chapter in Indias press history. In May 2022, Subhash Kumar Mahto, a freelance journalist known for his reporting on people involved in illegal sand mining, was fatally shot in the head by four unidentified men outside his home in Bihar. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The site of ongoing state-sponsored border wall construction is seen in La Casita-Garciasville, Texas. (Michael Gonzalez/Getty Images) RIO GRANDE CITY, Texas The letter to President-elect Donald Trump, sent to his Mar-a-Lago Club estate in Florida just two weeks after his resounding victory in the Nov. 5 election, came straight to the point. Subject: Texas offering 1,400 acres of land adjacent to the Texas-Mexico Border for construction of deportation facilities, read the opening line of Texas Land Commissioner Dr. Dawn Buckinghams eye-grabbing missive to the incoming president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Trump moves closer to reclaiming residency at the White House on Jan. 20, the vast Texas acreage at the edge of the Rio Grande promises to become a centerpiece of the get-tough immigration policies he plans to unfurl under recently named border czar Tom Homan. Republican governors from across the country have expressed their eagerness to help Trumps deportation efforts. In a joint statement issued last month by the Republican Governors Association, 26 of the 27 members (all except Vermont Gov. Phil Scott) declared that they stand ready to utilize every tool at our disposal whether through state law enforcement or the National Guard to support President Trump in this vital mission. The statement led by South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster focused on crime and national security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What united almost all GOP governors, it reads, is the incoming administrations efforts to deport dangerous criminals, gang members, and terrorists who are in this country illegally. But Texas, the only Republican-controlled state on the U.S.-Mexico border, is poised to play a particularly vital role. In the past several years, the state has dispatched thousands of Texas National Guard troops to the border. In 2023, McMaster aided that effort with an order that sent 150 troops on a 31-day mission assisting Texas authorities. Texas also enacted a law (which is on hold pending legal challenges) authorizing police officers to engage in immigration enforcement. And the border state set up a string of floating buoys to block migrants from crossing the Rio Grande. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Biden administration has fought those efforts in court, but the incoming Trump administration is expected to stand down. Now it appears likely that a well-secured federal deportation center will be taking root in impoverished Starr County, on a huge patch of level farmland that now yields onions, grain sorghum, corn and soybeans. Equipment is seen on farmland adjacent to road FM 1430 in La Casita-Garciasville, Texas. (Brandon Bell/Getty Images) Buckingham, a physician and former state senator whose agency oversees 13 million acres of state land, said she learned of the availability of the border tract from another state agency. She approached the owner and secured the land for $3.82 million at the height of the election season. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The purchase also cleared the way for construction of a 1.5-mile border wall that was blocked by the previous landowner, Buckingham said. We acquired that ranch kind of right at the beginning of early voting, she told Stateline. And then when Trump won, we figured they just may need some help with all the violent criminals for their processing, to get them off our soil. Next came her letters to Trump and Homan offering federal access to the land to allow a facility to be built for the processing, detention, and coordination of the largest deportation of violent criminals in the nations history. Buckingham has named the effort after Jocelyn Nungaray, a 12-year-old girl who was found dead in a Houston creek in June. Two Venezuelan migrants who were in the country illegally have been charged in Nungarays sexual assault and murder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We figured they just may need some help with all the violent criminals for their processing, to get them off our soil. Dr. Dawn Buckingham, Texas land commissioner The ACLU of Texas has slammed the planned deportation center. Our state and country already waste billions on failed and inhumane border policies, ACLU of Texas staff attorney Savannah Kumar said in a statement. Now, Texas officials are offering to turn our culturally rich borderlands into sites for the mass caging of our community members. In Rio Grande City, City Manager Gilberto Millan Jr. said many of the roughly 15,000 residents are still learning about the planned deportation center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But at least some believe it will deliver an economic boost to Starr County, where nearly 29% of the people live in poverty, compared with 11% nationally. Property in La Casita-Garciasville, Texas, is being offered by the state for a migrant deportation center. (Brandon Bell/Getty Images) In November, Starr County supported Trump over Democrat Kamala Harris by 55.6% to 40.2%, the first time since 1892 the county has voted Republican in a presidential election. I know that if they build that facility, thatll bring a lot of jobs to the community, Millan said. Even before the announced deportation center, Starr County was seeing an uptick in construction, retail and restaurants, he said. Although the potential deportation site is outside the city limits, it sits just a few miles from downtown Rio Grande City on FM 1430, a farm-to-market state road. Starr County residents now in their 60s and 70s recall how they used to pick fruits and vegetables on the irrigated land, working with their parents as youngsters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I worked that field since I was 8 or 9 years old, said Eloy Garza, 75, a Starr County commissioner who left his post last month after being defeated in a Democratic primary in March. Garza, whose county office was located just across from the property, also shared the view that the deportation center could be a job magnet. Im for it 100%, he said. I dont know who wouldnt like it. Bernardo Garcia, an 89-year-old retired criminal investigator, has watched the border wall rising in the distance from the modest frame house he shares with his 87-year-old wife on FM 1430. Although they havent been touched by crime, he believes the wall would be a good thing by serving as a barricade against those who might be inclined to do some criminal acts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the one-time surge of attention when Buckingham held a November news conference at the site to kick off border wall construction, at least some residents seemed largely oblivious to the project last month as construction crews worked at a distance from the highway to build the wall. Meanwhile, immigration advocates contend that pouring resources into deportation efforts will consume dollars that could be better spent on needed infrastructure and social programs. This is very, very harmful, said Joaquin Garcia, director of community organizing for La Union del Pueblo Entero, or LUPE, which serves immigrants in three Rio Grande Valley counties, including Starr. Garcia said the money should be spent on roads and housing, rather than militarization of the border. The last thing that Starr County needs is a detention center, he said. That is not something people want. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If mass deportation efforts target all estimated 11 million to 13 million immigrants who are in the country illegally, the cost would be at least $315 billion, according to a study released in October by the American Immigration Council, a nonprofit research and advocacy group that favors immigration. Modern-day deportations have never exceeded more than a half-million immigrants per year, said the study, and many of those were people trying to enter the United States, not those settled here. Immigration and Customs Enforcement already operates at least 20 detention centers in Texas, and Buckingham says she is standing by to provide still more resources from her immense reservoir of state-owned land, including a potential site in the El Paso region. Some Texas sheriffs, she said, also may have an interest in acquiring state property in urban centers to decongest a lot of the local jails being strained by immigrant detentions, including alleged lawbreakers. Everything were doing is just to try and get those violent criminals off our soil, she told Stateline. We have actually hundreds of thousands of acres on or adjacent to the border. So were just going to continue to be here and be a good partner, and anything we can do to help, we want to help. Starr County, Texas, resident Bernardo Garcia, 89, looks across the highway toward a border wall rising on thousands of acres of land owned by the state. Texas officials have offered the land to the incoming Trump administration for a migrant deportation center. (David Montgomery/Stateline) Like SC Daily Gazette, Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org. After the November general election, Arizona schools began fielding questions from students and families about the impacts of Arizona Proposition 314. This new law changes Arizonas approach to border enforcement, immigration status verification and fentanyl trafficking. When in full effect, it empowers local and state authorities to arrest individuals for immigration violations, which are currently under federal jurisdiction. Advertisement Advertisement Portions of Proposition 314 are on hold due to legal challenges, but if upheld, they would also apply to asylum seekers who have federal permission to be here. Most concerning is specific language allowing for arrests to happen anywhere within the state, including previously protected areas such as churches, hospitals and schools. Immigration enforcement could target schools National rhetoric from the incoming Trump administration about using the military for immigration enforcement and mass deportations deepens fears. Many teachers and school personnel are Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, now afraid of what happens to them if Trump rescinds DACA again, as he did in 2017. Advertisement Advertisement Fear is rippling through classrooms and communities at a time when schools can least afford it. Concerns are not limited to Arizona. School districts throughout the U.S. are proactively reminding staff about policies regarding interactions with immigration officials, as well as reassuring families of their current rights, even as they wonder what is to come. California Attorney General Rob Bonta has gone further, issuing model policies that school districts can adopt relating to the incoming Trump administrations assertions regarding mass deportations and rescinding protected areas such as schools. Bontas guidance also includes how schools should handle requests from immigration officials: Advertisement Advertisement local educational agencies should have plans in place in the event that a law-enforcement officer requests information or access to a school site or a student for immigration-enforcement purposes, the updated guide reads. SB 1070 had a terrible impact on students When Senate Bill 1070, Arizonas Show Me Your Papers law, went into effect in 2010, public schools were, in many ways, ground zero for the fallout, offering lived lessons and outcomes. One elementary school principal recalled the Maricopa County Sheriffs Office, then under Sheriff Joe Arpaio, parking an immigration enforcement trailer next to her school. Enrollment plummeted overnight from parents who were too afraid to be on campus. A high school principal shared that sheriffs officers would park just outside the gates of the school, detaining students as they left school property. Advertisement Advertisement We handed out Know Your Rights cards to every student, and Im glad we did. Several students detained were U.S. citizens, pressured by officers to sign deportation papers, he said, his anger still evident. These were American kids. Had they not known they could refuse to sign papers, I dont know what would have happened to them. A year after SB 1070 was enacted, the University of Arizona studied its impact on Arizonas children. The Left Back report demonstrates a disturbing pattern of youth destabilized, disillusioned and disadvantaged. Student enrollment decreased, resulting in lost funding and job cuts. Equally devastating was the erosion of trust with institutions not only law enforcement, but schools. Arizona schools should be safe places to learn One school counselor who worked primarily with parentless students reported her client load nearly doubling in the year following SB 1070s implementation. Advertisement Advertisement School counselors documented increased teen marriages for immigration purposes, and school health staff saw higher referrals for stress-related health issues. Principals reported decreased parental involvement in their childrens education, and young people shared that they were less likely to report crimes out of fear of immigration referrals. Arizonas schools are already facing declining enrollment, school closures and high levels of teacher burnout. Now, it appears they will also feel the brunt of state and national immigrant scapegoating. Opinion: Arizona is closing schools. Where did students go? Advertisement Advertisement Enough is enough. Schools should be beacons of safety, learning and resources within our communities. Let educators teach and students learn without fear. And, hopefully, let all of us learn historys lessons from SB 1070 so we dont repeat those same mistakes. Rhonda Cagle is founder of Leverage Consulting Agency, serving schools and school systems. She is a member of the Board of Contributors for The Arizona Republic. Follow her on X (formerly Twitter): @RhondaCagle1. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Public schools could be targets for immigration, deportation | Opinion Little Rock Central High School students pack the school's courtyard during a 20-minute walkout on Friday, March 3, 2023. Several student organizations protested Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders' invocation of the school in promoting the LEARNS Act, a new law that changes several aspects of the state's education system. (Tess Vrbin/Arkansas Advocate) Gov. Sarah Sanders sold her LEARNS Act to Arkansas legislators particularly its centerpiece voucher program as a way to improve educational outcomes in a state where school performance scores have lagged behind other states: I believe giving every child access to a quality education is the civil rights issue of our day. That talking point satisfied pliable legislators, who spent a mere 17 days deliberating far-reaching changes in our educational landscape before passing them into law. Had they done more due diligence, they could have found compelling evidence that far from helping students perform better, large statewide voucher programs can actually harm the academic achievement of participating students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indeed, these negative results started showing up more than a decade ago, with researchers finding detrimental effects in programs in Louisiana, Washington, D.C., Ohio and Indiana that were statistically larger than the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic or Hurricane Katrina. More recently, an evaluation of a vouchers pilot program in Tennessee found that students in voucher schools lagged behind their public school counterparts in proficiency in language arts and math by nearly 12% in language arts and by 19% in math. And as Arkansas legislators consider Sanders request to pour $180 million more into the vouchers program next year, they might also consider an array of research that shows investing that money into our most vulnerable public schools could increase both test scores and graduation rates, particularly for lower income kids something Sanders says she wants to see but which vouchers havent been proven to do. Josh Cowen, an educational policy expert at Michigan State University, makes a devastating case against vouchers in his book, The Privateers, which explores how a small group of committed billionaires and conservative think tanks have pushed vouchers for theocratic and ideological reasons, despite evidence showing that the students opting into vouchers programs may be harmed academically. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The evidence against vouchers isnt one-sided, but its as one-sided as social science gets, Cowen said in an interview. He was part of a group of researchers who early on found small beneficial effects for targeted vouchers programs in communities where public schools were resource poor positive effects that disappeared when programs scaled up to cover entire states. The reasons for these negative effects are twofold, according to Cowen. First, in most states, there are not enough high-quality private schools available to serve students entering the program, which leads to substandard schools picking up the slack. And second, many of the religious-oriented private schools are not actually interested in educating kids in any sort of academic mission-oriented way. Theyre not used to educating kids who might have learning disabilities. Theyre not used to educating kids in a way thats consistent with an academic mission, particularly in the STEM subjects where we see the worst results for kids, he said. How are you going to close math or science gaps when youre telling kids that the Earth is 6,000 years old? Even more troubling is the fact that recently enacted voucher programs, including in Arkansas, dont require the kind of robust, periodic, independent evaluations that turned up profound academic declines in other states. According to Cowen, voucher proponents who once embraced this kind of academic scrutiny changed course once negative results came rolling in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Post-pandemic, all of the voucher bills that have been passed dont contain anything like the early days reporting requirements. he said. And the reason is they did not want to know the answer after repeated failures over the last decade. In addition to the lack of follow-up research, another issue with vouchers is lack of information about the performance of participating private schools. Vouchers are based on the premise that competition will improve school performance, but competition requires data for parents to make choices. And voucher programs, by design, make meaningful comparisons all but impossible. In Arkansas, private schools participating in the vouchers program are required to assess student progress. But they get to pick their own test, rather than using the ATLAS test used by public schools. Even the pro-voucher Arkansas Department of Education, in its latest report on the program in October, conceded that because of the hodgepodge of assessment methods aligned results were not available across all participating students. The whole argument [vouchers proponents] are making implicitly relies on the idea that parents will have meaningful ways to consume and to access information about private school performance, Cowen said. There is no way for parents to do that; youre at the mercy of what the private school is telling you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Cowen, voucher programs dont incentivize private schools to participate in performance monitoring plans that would allow parents to take their kids academic results and compare them to the neighborhood school down the street, or, for that matter, to another private school down the street. Bill Kopsky, executive director of the Arkansas Public Policy Panel, speaks against a resolution that would encourage all registered Arkansas voters to oppose the Educational Rights Amendment of 2024.' Photographed during a House Management meeting on June 18, 2024. (Mary Hennigan/Arkansas Advocate) Researchers have found that vigorous oversight of voucher programs can reduce negative outcomes but in Arkansas, as in other states, the programs are set up to limit government oversight in pursuit of educational freedom and parental choice. Indeed, in Arkansas, voucher proponents moved heaven and earth to stop the Arkansas Educational Rights Amendment, which would have required private schools receiving vouchers to meet the same standards as public schools. The real way to see this is that theyre trying to set up a fully alternative sector, mostly of religious education, Cowen said. It isnt really about improving quality of life or quality of academic experience for kids. Its really just a subsidy for these private providers. While the case that voucher programs improve educational outcomes is mostly rhetorical, academic research has shown a correlation between investing more money in public schools and improved educational outcomes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Voucher proponents often offer the talking point that pouring more money into public schools that arent performing well amounts to throwing good money after bad. But according to Cowen, the debate among high quality researchers is essentially settled money really does improve educational outcomes. A meta-analysis published last year by researchers C. Kirabo Jackson and Clair Mackevicius looked at 31 different studies examining the effects increased spending has on educational outcomes. They found that a $1,000 increase in per pupil spending sustained over four years increased test scores, high school graduation rates and boosted college enrollment rates by 2.8 percent. Just imagine the good that $180 million could do. The perverse irony of Arkansas vouchers program is that it will take away funding from public schools, which has been shown to help educational outcomes, and put it into a vouchers program that not only hasnt been shown to improve outcomes but may cause real harm. Arkansans will have no idea what harm has been caused because nobody is tracking it, as parents fumble to make decisions about their childrens educations without adequate information. And who could be hurt first and most? The very students that Gov. Sanders claims to be rescuing with vouchers. WARREN COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now) Officers found items resembling homemade explosive devices in a car driven by an Arlington man after he was arrested in Warren County on New Years Day, according to the Warren County Sheriffs Office. According to the sheriffs office, at around 9:30 p.m. on Jan. 1, dispatchers received a 911 call reporting a suspicious dark-colored Honda off the roadway near Hillandale Road. The caller said the car did not have visible license plates and that they saw the driver throwing items from the vehicle while wearing a ski mask. Deputies found a car matching the vehicles description at a 7-Eleven in Linden. As deputies approached, the driver, identified as Jordan Alexander Sweetman, 19, of Arlington, allegedly ran before officers arrested him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A preliminary investigation indicated that Sweetman did not have a drivers license, did not own the car and showed signs of potential mental health issues, according to the sheriffs office. The vehicle also had damage consistent with being stolen and no license plates. Deputies also found burglary tools inside. The car was then towed to the sheriffs office for investigation. Medics took Sweetman to the hospital for a medical evaluation before he was taken to the RSW Regional Jail. Authorities charged him with obstruction of justice, possession of burglarious tools, wearing a mask to conceal identity and driving without a license. VDOT: Avoid driving in parts of Virginia due to weather conditions Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Jan. 2, investigators obtained a search warrant for the car and, upon searching it, found several items that looked like homemade explosives, according to the sheriffs office. Bomb squad technicians quickly responded and safely removed several devices from the car before conducting a controlled detonation away from the public near Eastham Park. Explosive detection canines also responded to the area of Hillandale Road for additional searches. After finding the devices, authorities charged Sweetman with an additional felony of manufacturing and possessing explosive materials or devices. He is being held without bond. The investigation is ongoing, and police encourage anyone with information to contact 540-635-7100 or cpowell@warrencountysheriff.org. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Police arrested a man they say arrived at a home in Gulfport on Sunday morning and fired into it after an argument. Avante Jaquan Kirk, 23, turned himself in Thursday morning, police said. He is facing one count of aggravated assault and one count of shooting into a dwelling. Police had been searching for Kirk since Sunday, when they said they were called at 11:06 a.m. to the 2500 block of Halsel Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Witnesses told police that Kirk arrived at the home and began arguing with someone there, according to a news release from Gulfport Police. Police said he fired a gun and hit the residence, then fled in a white 2020 Ford Escape. The Gulfport Police Department is searching for Avante Jaquan Kirk, who was last seen in a white Ford Escape. Police had earlier asked residents to consider Kirk armed and dangerous. Kirk is being held at the Harrison County jail on a $1 million bond, according to police. OSLO, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store has expressed concern over the potential influence of billionaire Elon Musk on democratic processes, criticizing his involvement in the internal affairs of other nations. In an interview with the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation (NRK) on Monday, Store said, "I find it concerning that a man with enormous access to social media and significant financial resources intervenes so directly in the internal affairs of other countries. That is not how things should be between democracies and allies." Store made the comments during the political program Politisk kvarter in response to a question about concerns Musk might interfere in Norwegian parliamentary elections set for September. The concerns stem from Musk's recent statements regarding countries such as Germany, the United Kingdom, and Italy. Store stressed the need for a unified response to such potential interference. "If we were to see this in Norway, I hope and assume that the entire Norwegian political spectrum would warn against it and distance itself from such actions," he said. In recent years, Musk has publicly commented on contentious political issues in various nations, including Europe's energy crisis and the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. This story was originally published on mynorthwest.com. The Green Beret soldier who fatally shot himself in a Cybertruck that exploded outside a Trump hotel on New Years Day has a northwest connection. He was enrolled in a training program for special operations forces at Joint Base Lewis-McChord four years ago. Those who knew him believe he showed symptoms of having suffered brain injuries, including concussions. According to The New York Times, an Army nurse who was a friend of Matthew Livelsberger said he was forgetting his words, losing his train of thought midsentence and suffered from insomnia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alicia Arritt started a relationship with the 37-year-old Master Sergeant Matthew Livelsberger in the Armys 10th Special Forces Group in 2018. She said she recognized that many symptoms she saw in Livelsberger were similar to those she had seen as an Army nurse in other combat veterans who suffered brain injuries. They included headaches and depression which kept Livelsberger isolated for days at a time. On Friday, the head of the F.B.I.s Las Vegas field office held a news conference and reported that Master Sergeant Livelsberger was a heavily decorated combat veteran who was struggling with PTSD and other issues. Arritt told The Times she met Livelsberger, a native of Colorado Springs, Colorado, in 2018. At the time he had been in the Army for more than a dozen years and had deployed into combat several times, including twice to Afghanistan. The Times reported the Army soldier had trained for years, jumping from planes and suffering back injuries in hard landings. He had also endured numerous weapons blasts and had lost some hearing after being exposed to explosions and gunfire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2021, Livelsberger enrolled in the Armys Advanced Special Operations Techniques (ASOT) course, an 18-week training program at JBLM for special operations units. But Arritt said he failed to complete the course. He couldnt concentrate, she told The New York Times. It was so frustrating for him. Arritt said Livelsberger blamed the failure on his traumatic brain injuries. After dropping out of the program, she said he became paranoid and felt like he was being followed. He also suffered from nightmares that continued for months after he left the training program. Master Sergeant Livelsberger eventually married another woman and became a father. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arritt continued her friendship with him and told The Times he was thinking of taking a less demanding support job in the Special Forces. But later he decided to take a leadership job at an American base in Germany. He knew he was having problems then, and thought it was related to brain injuries, but he also knew if he said anything, they wouldnt let him go, Arritt told The Times. The Army released a statement in response to The New York Times story, saying Master Sergeant Livelsberger had access to programs provided for mental health and did not display any concerning behaviors at the time. The Times reported the medical examiners office in Las Vegas has not said whether it will test Livelsbergers brain for signs of traumatic brain injury. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Friday, investigators revealed the contents of notes Livelsberger had left on his cellphone. The messages said he needed to cleanse his mind of the brothers Ive lost and relieve myself of the burden of the lives I took. In one letter found by authorities, Livelsberger wrote, This was not a terrorist attack, it was a wake-up call. Americans only pay attention to spectacles and violence. What better way to get my point across than a stunt with fireworks and explosives. Tom Brock is a weekend anchor, editor and reporter for KIRO Newsradio. WILMINGTON ISLAND, Ga. (WSAV) Answers cant come fast enough for some residents on Wilmington Island, as Chatham Fire and Police are investigating a house fire as arson. Georgia Arson Control is offering an up to $10,000 reward for information related to the fire on December 29th at 22 Island Creek Lane. Neighbors there believe kids are responsible, but no arrests have been made. Neighbors say it happened just before 8 at night. Betsy, who lives a few houses down, tells News 3, she heard voices before the fire started. She wishes she would have looked out her window that night. I heard what sounded like young men, teenagers. I thought it might be visitors; peoples grandchildren, Betsy said. They were yelling, We got to go. We got to go. Hurry up. Run, run! Theyre coming. We need to get out of here. Hurry and go. And by 8 oclock, the fire trucks had shown up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were told no one was in the home at the time of the fire. There are rumors of more incidents that night, leaving neighbors even more worried. Betsy said a flower pot at another unit in Island Creek was set on fire, but it was put out with no damage to the home. She says she also heard of three more fires at the Commons, but Chatham Fire could only confirm one of them. Officials cant say whether these fires are connected, since they are still investigating. Betsy says this tight knit community rarely sees crime, but shes going to be proactive from now on. Weve all been here for so many years, and we know each other. Its quiet, and we just love it here. But the first thing I did was I went and got four security cameras, and Im going to put them on our building, Betsy said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chatham County Police and the state fire marshal are involved in this investigation. If you know anything about this incident, youre asked to call GAC at 1-800-282-5804. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. As 2024 came to a close, Ascension Saint Thomas leadership reflected on strides in healthcare innovation, community care and patient outcomes across Tennessee. From groundbreaking heart procedures to cutting-edge artificial intelligence in cardiovascular care, the health system has been at the forefront of improving healthcare for Tennessee communities, a recent media release said. Below are some of the top achievements from Ascension Saint Thomas in 2024, according to a hospital media release. Ascension Saint Thomas made several strides during 2024. Expanded Home Health Partnership Across TennesseeAscension Saint Thomas has partnered with Compassus to expand its home health services across more than a dozen counties in Tennessee. The expanded partnership now includes counties such as Cheatham, Davidson, Rutherford, Sumner, Wilson, and others in both Middle and West Tennessee, providing critical home-based healthcare services to more patients in need. This expansion marks a major milestone in making healthcare more accessible and convenient for Tennesseans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three-Star Rating for Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital WestAscension Saint Thomas Hospital West earned an esteemed three-star rating from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons for its excellence in heart surgeries, including aortic valve replacement combined with coronary artery bypass grafting (AVR+CABG) and isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). This recognition places the hospital among the best in the U.S. and Canada for heart surgery quality. Groundbreaking FDA-Approved Heart Procedures in NashvilleAscension Saint Thomas Heart introduced a first-of-its-kind heart procedure to Nashville, offering a new, less invasive option for treating heart valve disorders. This cutting-edge FDA-approved procedure is designed to improve patient outcomes and provide a life-changing alternative for those with complex heart conditions. The successful implementation of the TriClip TEER procedure is attributed to the collaborative effort of Ascension Saint Thomas Heart's Structural Heart team. AI-Powered Revolution in Cardiovascular CareAscension Saint Thomas is the first hospital in Tennessee to implement egnites CardioCare technology, a breakthrough artificial intelligence-driven platform designed to enhance cardiovascular care. The innovative system offers clinicians real-time insights and smart interventions, revolutionizing patient care and outcomes in cardiovascular treatment. Pioneering Transcatheter Tricuspid Valve ReplacementAscension Saint Thomas Heart made history by performing the first-ever transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement using the newly FDA-approved EVOQUE system for treating tricuspid regurgitation (TR). This innovative treatment positions Ascension Saint Thomas as a leader in structural heart care and reflects the hospitals role in advancing cutting-edge medical technologies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recognized Among the Nations Best HospitalsSeveral Ascension Saint Thomas hospitals received top honors in 2024. Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford was named one of U.S. News & World Reports "Best Hospitals" for high performance in key specialties, including heart failure, hip replacement, and colon cancer surgery. Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital also earned recognition as a top regional hospital in Nashvilles metro area. National Recognition for Stroke Care ExcellenceAscension Saint Thomas Midtown, West, and Rutherford hospitals were recognized with the American Heart Associations Get With The Guidelines Stroke Gold Plus award for their exceptional stroke care. This honor reflects the hospitals dedication to providing the highest standards of care and improving patient outcomes in stroke treatment. Educational Collaboration to Shape Future NursesAscension Saint Thomas West, in partnership with Marian Universitys Leighton School of Nursing and Trevecca Nazarene University, opened a new Advanced Clinical Learning Center to train the next generation of nurses. This cutting-edge educational facility is equipped with high-tech tools to ensure students are prepared to meet the evolving demands of healthcare. Celebrating Advancements in Neonatal CareAscension Saint Thomas Rutherfords Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) expanded by 35%, adding six new bassinets and enhancing its ability to care for the tiniest patients. The expansion, supported by a generous donation from the Lee Moss Family, solidifies Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherfords commitment to delivering exceptional care to newborns and their families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Expansion of Maternity ServicesAscension Saint Thomas Rutherford and Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown have been recognized among U.S. News & World Reports Best Hospitals for Maternity Care in 2025. Both hospitals received the prestigious "High Performing" recognition for their dedication to exceptional maternity care. Health and Wellness Hub at Nashville YardsAscension Saint Thomas is set to redefine urban wellness with the creation of Ascension Saint Thomas Landing at Nashville Yards. Opening in 2025, this 1.3-acre open-air green space will serve as a community hub featuring an amphitheater, dog park, fitness classes, and outdoor events. Designed to promote physical and mental well-being, it will become a vibrant gathering place for residents and workers in the growing downtown Nashville area. To read more about these stories, and more advancements made in our hospitals visit Ascension Saint Thomas News. Ascension Saint Thomas is a leading healthcare system with a 125-year history of providing care to the community, and is the only faith-based, nonprofit health system in Middle Tennessee. Visit www.ascension.org. This article originally appeared on Murfreesboro Daily News Journal: Ascension Saint Thomas leads health innovations, expands access in 2024 The Atlanta City Council has chosen which priorities it is seeking legislative assistance with for the coming year. The council will be going through their legislative agenda during Mondays city council session. The legislative package for 2025 includes proposals for enhanced safety at city pools and rules to have data centers disclose water use estimates before development starts, as well as how it could impact resources. The agenda created by Atlanta City Council members will need state lawmakers to push through new bills to meet the goals theyve listed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can find a full list of the citys legislative priorities below. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] TRENDING STORIES: City of Atlanta Legislative Priorities Parks and Recreation City officials included two policy needs in the legislative package for Atlanta Parks and Recreation. The first is a policy statement saying the city needs to have support to put childcare services in the citys parks as a way to provide safe, accessible childcare for working families and to enhance family-friendly amenities in underserved areas of Atlanta. According to the package, this aligns with Mayor Andre Dickens vision of making Atlanta a more family-oriented city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Separately, the city is also asking for legislation to be drafted and passed to allow for more safety at public pools. These proposed guidelines include stricter fencing, supervision, and regular inspections to reduce accidents and improve public safety, especially for families and children. Mayors Office of Technology and Innovation When it comes to technology, Atlanta leaders want to get new incentives approved for small businesses, such as tax credits and a state-funded investment to increase access to capital for Atlantas entrepreneurs, in a bid to both keep and grow local businesses. Mayors Office of International and Immigrant Affairs The Mayors Office of International and Immigrant Affairs policy proposal was to provide in-state tuition for students classified as having Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals in terms of visa and citizenship statuses, and student refugees, per House Bill 131 and Senate Bill 264. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If approved, it would allow refugees and DACA recipients to get in-state tuition as a way to boost workforce diversity and support Atlatnas economic growth, according to officials. Department of Law City officials want to get legislative approval for allowing court stays and state sanctions for cases where Atlantas water rate is contested or challenged by jurisdictions outside of the city and for customers outside of the city. Officials said this would protect city revenue and avoid state penalties. Department of Watershed Management The building of data centers in the metro Atlanta area has ramped up in recent years, and now city officials want to have state lawmakers require data center developers to tell them water use estimates and provide water resource impact assessments for any planned development on new processing locations. The request follows a recent moratorium in the City of Atlanta on the building of new data centers, with the construction of data centers within 2,640 feet, a half-mile, of what they call high-capacity transit stops. More directly, the city council also banned data centers within the Beltline Overlay District. Atlanta Police Department/Public Safety There were several proposals and policy statements related to the Atlanta Police Department and Public Safety needs for the city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They are: Proposed Legislation: Drone Mitigation Legislation allowing law enforcement to disrupt drones used for contraband delivery, armed drones, or those in restricted zones, enhancing public safety. Stakeholders Georgia citizens and law enforcement agencies. Policy Statement: AI Crime Penalties Proposal to penalize the criminal use of artificial intelligence, addressing modern threats to public safety. Stakeholders Georgia citizens and law enforcement agencies. Proposed Legislation: Georgia Open Records Act Modifications Amendments to protect government employees from doxing and to set response times based on agency size, improving efficiency and safeguarding employee privacy. Stakeholders Georgia government agencies, including law enforcement departments. Proposed Legislation: Stronger Street Racing Legislation Legislation to increase penalties for street racing, including insurance penalties and vehicle seizure, aiming to curb dangerous street racing activities. Stakeholders Georgia citizens and law enforcement agencies. Proposed Legislation: Recruitment and Retention Incentives for Law Enforcement Proposal for educational and career development incentives for police officers, supporting recruitment and retention of trained personnel. Stakeholders Law enforcement agencies and Georgia citizens. Proposed Legislation: Modified Weapon Penalties Request to impose misdemeanor and felony penalties for weapon modifications, particularly those enhancing weapon lethality, to improve public safety. Stakeholders Georgia citizens and law enforcement agencies. Proposed Legislation: First Responder Mental Health Expansion of PTSD benefits for first responders, including income replacement, to support mental health among public safety personnel. Stakeholders Georgia first responders and public safety organizations. Policy Statement: Support for NG911 Initiatives Request to increase statewide 911 fees to fund Next Generation 911 technology, enhancing emergency response capabilities. Stakeholders Law enforcement and emergency response agencies, Georgia citizens. Finance The Atlanta City Council is requesting state lawmakers approve an increase to the citys general obligation bond limit in order to allow bigger bonds to be issued without the need for a public referendum. The current limit is $4 million, according to the city and raising the cap would let officials fund projects with both higher costs and larger scopes without delay. Housing Atlanta officials had tow housing-related priorities for state lawmakers for the 2025 legislative session, which begins Jan. 13. According to the legislative agenda package, Atlanta wants to take out a provision from a zoning law in 2022 that requires public hearings for every Specail Administrative Permit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said before the 2022 law, SAPs traditionally only required review and approval by staff, but now they must now hold a public hearing on every SAP application. An SAP can be for projects as simple as the construction of an addition to a single-family home, a renovation, or a demolition. The development community and homeowners are hindered by this requirement because it adds more time to the SAP process. The City is hindered by this requirement because it must use staff and resources to advertise the hearing, prepare for the hearing, and staff the hearing. City documents say the provision removal almost happened in 2024 legislative session, but an additional unrelated legislative proposal was added to the bill later in the session and it ultimately failed as a result. Atlanta also wants impact waivers to be allowed when it comes to weaving or reducing impact fees without jurisdiction when replacing funding from other sources. Citing the need for reducing fees to provide more affordable housing, Atlanta council members said in the legislative request that allowing municipalities to provide impact fee reductions for housing could help address the housing crisis currently facing the metro area. While the legislation proposed by Atlanta officials would help address this need, the request itself said it would be optional, meaning municipalities would not be required to waive fees, just that they could if they choose to do so. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Atlanta officials and the Policing Alternatives and Diversion Initiative have reached a new, multi-year agreement after days of back-and-forth between the city and PAD leaders. Originally, the Atlanta City Council had approved a two-year, $5 million contract with PAD in mid-November, but delays ensued. A contract was officially signed on Friday, according to information the Atlanta Mayors Office and PAD shared with Channel 2 Action News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PAD officials said in a statement that the contract will cover several years of diversion services in partnership with Atlantas 311 line, providing compassionate, specialized response to vulnerable community members and reduce police interactions and unnecessary calls to 911. The statement from PAD on the new contract said the partnership is positioned to grow over the course of the next six years, adding that the two-year contract with two renewal options was first proposed in a competitive bidding process held by the City of Atlanta in April 2024, which resulted in the selection of PAD. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PAD has provided services to Atlanta since 2021 through its 311 partnership. While contract discussions continued last week, PAD temporarily discontinued service to the city. Channel 2 Action News covered the situation, where Atlanta officials said services did not halt even while PAD discontinued working with the city while the contract was finalized. Now, leaders from both the city and PAD have confirmed work has resumed. We are committed for the long-haul and we are just getting started, said PAD Deputy Director Denise White. Doing this work allows us to transform a system of punishment into one of restoration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following the contracts signing, a spokesperson for the Atlanta mayors office provided the following statement on Monday to Channel 2 Action News: After PAD made the unnecessary decision to withhold services, creating a manufactured crisis, the contract has been signed by both parties. Diversion services have continued uninterrupted and residents can continue to call 311 for individuals experiencing a mental health or substance abuse crisis. In previous Channel 2 Action News coverage of the contract issues, a spokesperson for the mayors office said the problems were a manufactured controversy, and representatives for PAD declined to comment on that accusation. With the claim now repeated, Channel 2 Action News asked for their response, and they again declined to comment. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] At least three Israelis have been killed and eight other people injured in an attack in the northern West Bank, Israeli rescue workers said on Monday. Two women and one man died while three people were injured, according to the ZAKA non-governmental rescue and recovery group. A suspected Palestinian attacker had fired at a bus from a vehicle in al-Funduq, west of the city of Nablus, and was said to be on the run along with another individual, media reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We will find the abhorrent murderers and settle accounts with them and with all those who aided them," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement. "No one will get away." The already tense situation in the West Bank severely worsened after the Hamas-led massacre of around 1,200 people in Israel on October 7, 2023, triggering the Gaza war. Some 800 West Bank Palestinians have since been killed in Israeli military operations, armed clashes and attacks by extremists, according to the Ministry of Health in Ramallah. Rocket fire from Gaza hits house in Sderot A rocket fired from Gaza hit a house in the Israeli border town of Sderot on Monday, while another projectile was intercepted by air-defence systems and a third landed in an uninhabited area, the Israeli military said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were no immediate reports of injuries. UN World Food Programme says convoy hit in Gaza The UN World Food Programme (WFP) said in a statement released on Monday that an aid convoy was shot at by Israeli forces near the Wadi Gaza checkpoint in the Gaza Strip. Eight of the staff involved were endangered by the Israeli shelling that occurred on Sunday, the organization reported. They were unharmed. The aid convoy had been authorized by Israeli authorities, the WFP emphasized. "This unacceptable event is just the latest example of the complex and dangerous working environment that WFP and other agencies are operating in today. Security conditions in Gaza must urgently improve for lifesaving humanitarian assistance to continue," the WFP said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It urged all parties to respect international humanitarian law, protect civilian lives, and allow safe passage for humanitarian aid. The Israeli army said it was looking into the report. Several aid workers have been killed in Israeli aerial attacks in the course of the current Gaza war. A man was charged with attempted murder after allegedly trying to steal liquor and pulling out a gun as employees prevented him from getting away with the merchandise, said the Lancaster County Sheriffs Office. Datarius Marques Vaughn-McHam, 27, of Charlotte, tried to steal two bottles of high-dollar tequila from the Stateline Elite package store on Charlotte Highway in Indian Land at about 3 p.m. Saturday, witnesses told deputies. 16 people arrested in deadly shooting police believe to be gang-related Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He tried to walk out with the liquor when two employees intervened, the sheriff said. One restrained Vaughn-McHam and the other blocked the door. The store had three more workers and four customers inside. That was when the suspect pulled out a 9mm pistol and he and the employees struggled with the gun. Two shots were fired. No one was struck, deputies said. A customer helped restrain the suspect until deputies arrived. One employee was bitten and Vaughn-McHam got a bloody nose. No other injuries were reported. This was a very dangerous incident, and I am thankful no one was shot or seriously hurt, said Sheriff Barry Faile in a news release. While we are glad Vaughn-McHam was detained by the employees and a customer, I caution folks that what begins as a property crime like this can quickly turn into a life-or-death situation when you dont know who youre dealing with or what he might have on him. The better course is to get a good description or photos of the suspect and his car with a tag number and pass that information on to the police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vaughn-McHam was wanted by several North Carolina law enforcement agencies, and the pistol had been reported lost to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department on New Years Eve. He was arrested and charged with attempted murder, armed robbery, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a violent crime. He was taken to the Lancaster County Detention Center and appeared before a magistrate Sunday morning where bond was denied. A detainer has been placed on him by the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction. CHIPPEWA FALLS A New Auburn man who has pleaded not guilty to sexual assault is headed toward a September trial. Arlon J. Hoff, 28, 146 W. Dell St., was charged in March in Chippewa County Courth with third-degree sexual assault and fourth-degree sexual assault. Hoff appeared in court Thursday. With no plea agreement in place, Judge Benjamin Lane set a trial to begin Sept. 3, with a final pretrial hearing on Aug. 4. Hoff entered a not guilty plea in October. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the criminal complaint, a woman told police in April 2023 she was lying in bed at a residence in New Auburn when Hoff came into the room, got in the bed with her, and sexually assaulted her. She said she pushed him away and pretended like she was asleep, but he continued to sexually assault her. Hoff has no prior criminal record in Wisconsin, online court records show. He remains free on a signature bond. As terms of his release, he cannot have any contact with the victim in the case. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) Attorneys are recommending a sentence of three years for an Austintown man who pleaded guilty to a felony domestic violence charge. Raynell Jones, 51, entered a plea to the charge, a third-degree felony, as well as a misdemeanor count of criminal damaging, before Judge John Durkin in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court. Sentencing is Feb. 6. Jones was arrested following a Sept. 14 incident at a birthday party in Austintown, said Assistant Prosecutor Daniel Yozwiak. At the party, Yozwiak said Jones became agitated, damaged a car, and pushed and shoved several people, including a woman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jones asked Judge Durkin if he could receive treatment for alcohol abuse when he is sent to prison, saying that alcohol was one of the reasons he behaved like he did that day. Judge Durkin said an assessment will be done for Jones as part of his pre-sentence investigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. (Bloomberg) -- Austrias anti-immigrant Freedom Party crept closer to appointing its first chancellor after receiving an invitation by the nations president to discuss forming a government. Most Read from Bloomberg Freedom Party leader Herbert Kickl will meet Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen late Monday morning in Vienna after efforts to form a centrist coalition collapsed, prompting conservative Chancellor Karl Nehammer to resign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The newly-named interim leader of the Peoples Party, Christian Stocker, said on Sunday that he had his groups approval to negotiate toward a coalition led by the Freedom Party, which won more seats than any other party in Septembers federal election. The voices within the Peoples Party that rule out a collaboration with a Freedom Party led by Herbert Kickl have significantly moderated, Van der Bellen said in a televised statement on Sunday. He plans to name an interim chancellor in the next week. The developments suggest a government led by Kickl is now the most likely outcome. A former interior minister, Kickl, 56, would be the first Freedom Party chancellor in Austrias post-World War Two history. Despite the right-wing partys electoral win, Van der Bellen had decided not to give Kickl a mandate to form a government, as no other parties had been ready to support his candidacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, the president sought to facilitate a centrist coalition including the conservatives, the Social Democrats and the liberal NEOS. Those talks fell apart on Friday amid intractable differences over policy priorities. A Freedom Party-led government would bring a pro-Russian, anti-immigrant and climate-skeptic group into power in the Central European nation of about 9 million people. Kickl also aggressively opposed a coronavirus vaccine mandate during the pandemic, and supported far-right activists promoting the mass deportation of immigrants. We bear no responsibility for wasted time, chaotic conditions and the enormous erosion of trust, Kickl said in a statement on Facebook, adding that he would make no further public comment until after his meeting with Van der Bellen. Clearly, the Freedom Party has been and is the only stable point in Austrian politics. Kickl is a divisive figure in Austria, polling as one of the least-liked politicians while at the same time leading his party to the cusp of victory. In the past, hes publicly referred to Van der Bellen, 80, as a senile mummy. When he served as interior minister, some foreign intelligence agencies stopped sharing information because of their level of mistrust. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the conservatives, for decades Austrias dominant political force, Stockers about-face is an admission of its dwindling support and Nehammers failure to restore popularity following the resignation of Sebastian Kurz in 2021. Powerful provincial leaders and a faction of industrialists had also pushed for aligning with the far right. Since yesterday, the situation looks different, Stocker said on Sunday. It is therefore not about Herbert Kickl or me, but about the fact that this country needs a stable government right now and we cannot keep losing time in election campaigns. A new government will face the task of reviving an economy in crisis, with years of rapid wage growth and surging energy costs eroding the nations competitiveness. After two years of economic contraction, Austria will also need to approve billions of euros in budget consolidating measures to avoid European Union penalties. (Adds statement from Freedom Party leader in ninth paragraph, background on conservatives in tenth.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. (Bloomberg) -- Austrias far-right leader Herbert Kickl received a mandate from President Alexander Van der Bellen to form a government, putting the Freedom Party chief one step closer to becoming chancellor. Most Read from Bloomberg I have not taken this step lightly, Van der Bellen told reporters on Monday. I will continue to ensure that the principles and rules of our constitution will be upheld. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite previously pledging that they would not work with Kickl, members of the conservative Peoples Party reversed course on Sunday after Chancellor Karl Nehammer failed to form a centrist coalition and resigned. The 56-year-old Kickl met with Van der Bellen in Vienna on Monday to discuss forming a government as about 500 people gathered nearby to protest. Austrias ATX stock index rose 0.7% on Monday, a public holiday in Austria. Ten-year bond yields were little changed at 2.85%, in line with German notes. Should Kickl take power, it would mark the first time a far-right party has led Austria since the end of the Second World War. It would also add to a nationalist surge in Europe. With two weeks to go until Donald Trump takes the US presidency, Germany is readying for elections in February in which the far-right is expected to gain ground, and France has grappled with electoral gridlock since a leftist alliance and Marine Le Pens far-right National Rally outperformed rivals in elections last June. The Freedom Party campaigned on a pro-Russian, anti-immigrant and climate-skeptic platform. Kickl, a divisive figure in the nation of about nine million, polled as one of the countrys least-liked politicians while at the same time leading his party to the cusp of power. He aggressively opposed a vaccine mandate during the pandemic, and supported far-right activists promoting the mass deportation of immigrants. He has also vowed to cooperate with Viktor Orban, the controversial prime minister in neighboring Hungary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Peoples Party for decades sought to keep the Freedom Party at bay, either by forming coalitions with rival parties or by only including it as a junior government partner a means of exerting dominance. Yet that strategy began to unravel after the countrys September election, in which the Freedom Party won 57 seats, up from 26 in 2019, and its overall share of the vote jumped almost 13 points. The Peoples Party claimed only 51 seats, a 20-seat loss. While Austrias other parties attempted to close ranks after the election to keep the Freedom Party out of government what the partys leader dubbed a Kickl prevention strategy Nehammers resignation on Saturday brought that to an end. After failing to nail down a coalition with the Social Democrats and the liberal NEOS, Nehammers interim successor, Peoples Party secretary Christian Stocker, quickly said he was ready to discuss a coalition with the Freedom Party. The change is an admission of the partys dwindling public support, as well as Nehammers failure to lure voters after taking over from one-time political prodigy Sebastian Kurz in 2021. Powerful provincial leaders and a faction of industrialists affiliated with the Peoples Party had also pushed for aligning with the far right. Since yesterday, the situation looks different, Stocker, until recently a sharp critic of the Freedom Party, said on Sunday. This country needs a stable government right now and we cannot keep losing time in election campaigns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The chances of a Freedom Party-Peoples Party coalition have increased significantly, but arent a foregone conclusion, said Marcus How, a geopolitical risk analyst at VE Insight in Vienna. Kickl holds most of the cards, and can therefore afford to be maximalist in his negotiating stance, How said. If the negotiations fail, he can simply lean back and fight an election which the polls indicate would bring further landslide gains for the Freedom Party. Unlike younger far-right groups in Europe, the Freedom Party has been active in Austria for decades. In the past, Kickl has publicly referred to Van der Bellen, 80, as a senile mummy. When he served as interior minister, some foreign intelligence agencies mistrusted him enough to stop sharing sensitive information with Austria. To become chancellor, Kickl will need to reconcile his political views with the conservatives, who continue to hold powerful positions across Austrias economy and society. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Austrias new leaders also need to confront serious headwinds for the nations industrial producers following years of high wage growth and rising energy prices that hurt competitiveness. And after two years of economic contraction, Austria also needs to approve billions in budget consolidating measures to avoid incurring penalties from the European Union. In a statement on Sunday, Kickl said he would prioritize affordable living, justice, security, freedom and peace. We bear no responsibility for wasted time, chaotic conditions and the enormous erosion of trust, Kickl said Sunday on Facebook. Clearly, the Freedom Party has been and is the only stable point in Austrian politics. (Adds details throughout.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. (Bloomberg) -- More than three months after winning the most seats at federal elections, far-right leader Herbert Kickl is on track to become the Freedom Partys first Austrian chancellor in a tie-up with the conservative Peoples Party. Most Read from Bloomberg Kickl, 56, is set to meet President Alexander Van der Bellen at 11 a.m. in Vienna on Monday to discuss forming a government. In an about-face, the conservatives said on Sunday theyre ready to start talking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Kickl government would be the first led by the far-right party in post-World War Two Austria. The Peoples Party has for decades sought to keep it at bay by forming coalitions with the Social Democrats and other groups, or by inviting its members to participate as junior partners. This time, the conservatives have been forced to yield, shocking Austrias political establishment. The Freedom Party won 57 seats in Austrias September election, up 26 from 2019, against the Peoples Partys 51, a loss of 20. Its overall share of the vote jumped almost 13 points. At that point, Austrias other parties attempted to close ranks to keep the Freedom Party out of government - a Kickl prevention strategy, according to the partys leader. Yet Karl Nehammer, chancellor since late 2021, resigned on Saturday after failing to nail down a coalition with the Social Democrats and the liberal NEOS. His interim successor, party secretary Christian Stocker, quickly said he was ready to discuss a coalition with the Freedom Party. The change in position was an admission of the partys dwindling public support, as well as Nehammers failure to lure voters following the downfall of one-time political prodigy Sebastian Kurz. Powerful provincial leaders and a faction of industrialists had also pushed for aligning with the far right. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since yesterday, the situation looks different, Stocker, until recently a sharp critic of the Freedom Party, said on Sunday. This country needs a stable government right now and we cannot keep losing time in election campaigns. The chances of a Freedom Party-Peoples Party coalition have increased significantly, but arent a foregone conclusion, said Marcus How, a geopolitical risk analyst at VE Insight in Vienna. Kickl holds most of the cards, and can therefore afford to be maximalist in his negotiating stance, How said. If the negotiations fail, he can simply lean back and fight an election which the polls indicate would bring further landslide gains for the Freedom Party. Kickls a divisive figure in the nation of about 9 million, polling as one of the least-liked politicians while at the same time leading his party to the cusp of victory. In the past, hes publicly referred to Van der Bellen, 80, as a senile mummy. When he served as interior minister, some foreign intelligence agencies stopped sharing information because of their level of mistrust. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Freedom Party has campaigned on a pro-Russian, anti-immigrant and climate-skeptic platform. Kickl also aggressively opposed a vaccine mandate during the pandemic, and supported far-right activists promoting the mass deportation of immigrants. In Europe, it would bring another populist leader into power as Donald Trump prepares to take over the US presidency, Germany readies for elections in February featuring an ascendant right wing, and France grapples with political gridlock. Kickl has also vowed to cooperate with Viktor Orban, the often-controversial prime minister in neighboring Hungary. To become chancellor, Kickl will need to reconcile his political views with the conservatives, who continue to hold powerful positions across Austrias economy and society. Austrias new leaders also need to confront serious headwinds for the nations industrial producers following years of high wage growth and rising energy prices that hurt competitiveness. And after two years of economic contraction, Austria will also need to approve billions of euros in budget consolidating measures to avoid European Union penalties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement on Sunday, Kickl said his policy focus would be on affordable living, recognizing personal achievement, justice, security and peace, as well as the protection of the homeland, freedom, and providing a good perspective for future generations. We bear no responsibility for wasted time, chaotic conditions and the enormous erosion of trust, Kickl said Sunday on Facebook. Clearly, the Freedom Party has been and is the only stable point in Austrian politics. 2025 Bloomberg L.P. By Francois Murphy VIENNA (Reuters) - Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen tasked the leader of the far-right Freedom Party (FPO) on Monday with forming a coalition government after a centrist bid to assemble one without the FPO collapsed unexpectedly over the weekend. The announcement marks a dramatic reversal for the president, a former leader of the left-wing Greens who has long been critical of the FPO and has clashed with its leader Herbert Kickl, but few options remained to Van der Bellen after the centrists' failure to forge a coalition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The eurosceptic, Russia-friendly FPO won last September's parliamentary election with 29% of the vote. It will now enter talks with its only potential partner, the conservative People's Party (OVP), seeking to lead a government for the first time since it was founded in the 1950s under a leader who had been a senior officer in Hitler's elite paramilitary SS. "I have... tasked him with launching talks with the People's Party to form a government," Van der Bellen said in a televised address after meeting Kickl, adding: "I did not take this step lightly." As Kickl left his meeting with the president, hundreds of protesters including Jewish students and left-wing activists booed, whistled, chanted "Nazis out" and waved banners with slogans such as "We don't want a right-wing extremist Austria". Van der Bellen had infuriated the FPO by not tasking it with forming a government soon after the election since no potential coalition partner was immediately forthcoming. That task fell to the conservative People's Party (OVP) and its leader Chancellor Karl Nehammer. The OVP came second in the election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nehammer's attempts to assemble a three- and then two-party coalition with other centrist parties fell apart this weekend, prompting him to announce his resignation. OVP NOW OPEN TO TALKS Nehammer had long insisted his party would not govern with Kickl, saying the FPO leader was a conspiracy theorist and security threat. With Nehammer gone, so is that red line. His interim successor as OVP leader, Christian Stocker, said on Sunday his party would join coalition talks led by Kickl. "We are at the very beginning. If we are invited to these talks, the outcome of those talks is open," OVP heavyweight Wilfried Haslauer, the governor of Salzburg state who stood next to Stocker at his first statement to the media as designated party leader, told broadcaster ORF. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Should those talks fail, however, a snap election is likely, and opinion polls show FPO support has only grown since September. The OVP and FPO overlap on various issues, particularly over taking a tough line on immigration. The thorniest issue in the centrists' talks, however, was how to shrink the budget deficit, which is forecast to exceed the EU's limit of 3% of economic output in 2024 and 2025. While both parties call for tax cuts, the FPO has pledged to take a knife to some of the OVP's vested interests, such as the powerful Chamber of Commerce. They have also clashed over the FPO's opposition to aid for Ukraine in its war against Russia, and current plans for a missile defence system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Van der Bellen has repeatedly said he will remain vigilant to ensure "cornerstones of democracy" including human rights, independent media and Austria's membership of the European Union are respected. (Reporting by Francois Murphy; Editing by Gareth Jones) Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen has instructed far-right Freedom Party leader Herbert Kickl to begin coalition talks to form a government with the Austrian People's Party following a meeting on 6 January. Source: European Pravda Details: Van der Bellen met with Kickl on Monday after coalition talks between three parties the Austrian People's Party, the Social Democrats and the liberal NEOS party ended in failure last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These three political forces had attempted to form a government, preventing the far-right Freedom Party, which won the elections three months ago, from taking power. But the attempt failed due to critical differences in their political programmes. After the September elections, all the parties in parliament ruled out forming a partnership with Kickl's Freedom Party. However, following the breakdown of coalition discussions, Austrian People's Party leader Karl Nehammer, who was strongly opposed to an alliance with Kickl, resigned. The new party leader, Christian Stocker, has allowed for a possible alliance with the right-wing radicals, paving the way for the formation of a government composed of the Freedom Party and the Austrian People's Party. "Kickl is confident that he can find a solution in the government negotiations, and he wants the responsibility," Van der Bellen said, explaining his decision to entrust Kickl with the task of forming the new federal government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I will make sure that the principles and provisions of the constitution are properly observed," the federal president added. If the negotiations between the Freedom Party and the Austrian People's Party are successful, Austria will have a far-right chancellor for the first time in its history. Support UP or become our patron! Austrian President Alexander van der Bellen on Monday met Herbert Kickl, the leader of the far-right Freedom Party of Austria (FPO), for talks on the formation of a new government. Van der Bellen was expected to offer Kickl the opportunity to lead the new government after Chancellor Karl Neuhammer handed in his resignation on Saturday following the failure of the previous coalition negotiations. The FPO - which has previously been a junior coalition partner but never held the position of chancellor - emerged as the largest party after the parliamentary election in late September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The conservative Austrian People's Party (OVP) under Neuhammer subsequently tried to keep the FPO out of power by forging a coalition of centrist parties with the Social Democratic Party of Austria (SPO) and the liberal NEOS. However, negotiations broke down last week, with Neuhammer being replaced as OVP leader on Sunday by Christian Stocker. Stocker then signalled his willingness to hold talks with the FPO over the formation of a coalition. The two parties are largely in agreement on issues such as migration and taxes, but differences over foreign policy and security could emerge, with the FPO seen as pro-Moscow and critical of the European Union. The meeting on Monday was due to last around an hour, with a statement by Van der Bellen expected in the afternoon. Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen has asked the leader of the country's far-right Freedom Party (FPO) to form a new ruling coalition in what could yield the first far-right-led government in Austria since World War II. FPO leader Herbert Kickl has the confidence to find viable solutions within the framework of government negotiations and he wants to fulfill this responsibility, Van der Bellen said in a televised address after the two leaders met Monday in Vienna. I did not take this step lightly, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hundreds of protesters, including Jewish students and left-wing activists, gathered outside the presidential office in Vienna holding banners to boo and whistle, shouting Nazis out. The development marks another boost for far-right lawmakers in Europe, where extreme political parties have gained momentum as incumbent centrists have struggled to build coalitions and hold on to power. In France, Marine Le Pen's National Rally party has surged in the polls, while President Emmanuel Macron's Renaissance has slumped. In neighboring Germany, Alternative for Germany, which is currently being monitored by Berlins own intelligence agency for suspected extremism, is expected to fare well in next month's election following a collapse in support for current Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The overall trend is unmistakable: The far right is gaining ground, Matthijs Rooduijn, a politics professor at the University of Amsterdam told NBC News in October. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ideas of these parties have been legitimized by many mainstream right-wing parties, and political as well as media discourse has shifted to the right, Rooduijn added. What was once considered radical has now become the new normal for many voters. Van der Bellen's announcement constitutes a major departure in the direction of Austrian lawmakers' attempts to form a government after the ruling conservatives held a crisis meeting Sunday following the resignation of current Chancellor Karl Nehammer on Saturday. The meeting, aimed at countering the FPO by cobbling together a centrist coalition of the Social Democrats and liberals, was ultimately unsuccessful and left Van der Bellen with few options. The Austrian president, whose job it is to ensure a workable government is created, had been trying to form a coalition since October. But those attempts failed after Nehammers conservative Austrian Peoples Party, along with other parties, refused to work with the far-right FPO. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nehammers party indicated it was open to collaborating under Kickls leadership following his resignation. During Austrias parliamentary elections in September, the FPO won an unprecedented 28.8% of the vote and came out on top. Opinion polls suggest that if an election were held now, support for the far-right party would be even stronger. The Russia-friendly FPO, which was founded by former Nazis, advocates for strict border controls and the suspension of asylum rights through emergency laws. It also wants to oversee the remigration of uninvited foreigners and to create a more homogeneous society. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com The California Highway Patrol has issued a stark warning to parents about the rising trend of scammers using the fear of child abduction to gain sensitive information. CHP officials said phone scammers have been contacting parents posing as Amber Alert representatives, offering to register their children in a database in the event that the child goes missing or is taken. The scammers ask for confidential information and even ask to meet the parent at their home, officials said. A generic image of an Amber Alert graphic issued by the California Highway Patrol. But law enforcement officials are urging parents not to fall for those tactics, emphatically stating that this is not how the Amber Alert system works. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In California, the CHP is the sole agency authorized to activate Amber Alerts, which do not require prior registration. There are no Amber Alert representatives and no exclusive database for children who have been registered. Authorities urge parents to remain vigilant and skeptical when receiving any calls from unknown numbers or calls that show up as possible scam. You should never provide personal information to those callers, CHP said, and if youve been contacted by a scammer, you should report it to local law enforcement immediately. Stay informed and protect yourself, CHP said. The Amber Alert system was founded in the 1990s in Texas in response to the kidnapping and killing of 9-year-old Amber Hagerman. Since then, all 50 states have established alert systems and the federal government has partnered with telecom and social media companies to help widely broadcast the emergency in hopes of preventing further tragedies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of December 2024, more than 1,200 children were successfully recovered through the Amber Alert system and 195 children were rescued because of wireless emergency alerts, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. NEW YORK, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- High-profile online clashes over the need for H-1B visas and a skilled-worker immigration program recently erupted between U.S. billionaire Elon Musk and President-elect Donald Trump's far-right supporters. Trump was caught between technology executives and his core nationalist base as the rift spilled into public view during the recent holiday week. Though Trump's decision to side with Musk and Musk's backpedaling on the issue seemed to have cooled down the public dispute for the time being, the resilience of the Trump coalition drew more attention. ESCALATING RIFT U.S. far-right activist Laura Loomer on Dec. 23 criticized Trump's choice of Sriram Krishnan, an Indian-American technology entrepreneur and investor, as his senior policy adviser on artificial intelligence. "It's alarming to see the number of career leftists who are now being appointed to serve in Trump's admin when they share views that are in direct opposition to Trump's America First agenda," Loomer wrote on X. Loomer pointed to Krishnan's previous support for removing some caps on green cards and easing the process for skilled foreign workers to come to the United States. The critique sparked a broader debate about immigration in the tech industry, which relies heavily on foreigners with technical skills to work in the United States under H-1B nonimmigrant status. Musk, who once held an H-1B visa and has relied on the program to employ thousands of Tesla employees, made a foray into the dispute by defending the tech industry's need to bring over workers from abroad. "The number of people who are super talented engineers AND super motivated in the USA is far too low," Musk wrote on X, adding that a "shortage of excellent engineering talent" is a "fundamental limiting factor in Silicon Valley." "The reason I'm in America along with so many critical people who built SpaceX, Tesla, and hundreds of other companies that made America strong is because of H1B ... I will go to war on this issue the likes of which you cannot possibly comprehend," said Musk in another X post. Steve Bannon, who served as chief strategist during Trump's first term, warned that Musk's "true colors" were showing in the debate. "H1B Visa Program Should be Zeroed-Out - Used to Constantly Drive Wages Down and Replace American Tech Workers - the Foreign Worker Replacements are Treated Like Indentured Servants ...," Bannon posted on X. TRUMP TAKES SIDES The battle that erupted on X between Musk and far-right factions over H-1B visas was dubbed by The Washington Post as a "MAGA civil war." Trump waded in to ease the tension between the two sides. "I have many H-1B visas on my properties. I've been a believer in H-1B. I have used it many times. It's a great program," Trump was quoted as saying by the New York Post on Dec. 28. However, Musk said the program was "broken" and in need of major reform in a Dec. 29 thread. Musk proposed raising the minimum salary for visa holders and adding a yearly maintenance fee to make it more costly to hire foreign workers than domestic ones. "I didn't change my mind. I've always felt we have to have the most competent people in our country, and we need competent people," Trump said on Jan. 2. Trump's public support for the H-1B visa left many confused, said Fox News host Rachel Campos-Duffy. While Trump's supporters continue to assert his victory and mandate, his fragile coalition appears to be fracturing even before he takes office, according to the Milwaukee Independent. A VITAL VISA The U.S. tech industry has long relied on foreign skilled workers to spearhead innovation, which is seen as one of the critical competitiveness of the country and a major driver of productivity growth. Research shows that H-1B workers complement U.S. workers, filling gaps in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields, and expanding job opportunities across the board, said American Immigration Council in a report published on Friday. The United States has currently maintained an annual cap of 65,000 H-1B visas, with 20,000 additional visas for foreign professionals holding a master's degree or doctorate from a U.S. institution of higher learning. California is by far the biggest user of the H-1B program. More than 9,600 employers in California sought clearance for at least one H-1B worker in fiscal 2024, with 78,860 visa applications for new and continuing employment being approved, according to data from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The top 10 beneficiaries of H-1B visas in California were dominated by tech giants, most of them in the Bay Area, where Silicon Valley is located. The future of the H-1B program will likely continue to shape the U.S. tech sector and the broader national discourse on immigration policy. By Nailia Bagirova BAKU (Reuters) - French citizen Martin Ryan went on trial in Azerbaijan on Monday on spying charges that the judge said could lead to a prison sentence of 10 to 15 years. Azerbaijan accuses Ryan, who was arrested in December 2023, of collecting secret information about its military cooperation with Turkey and Pakistan, and helping to recruit French-speaking Azerbaijanis to cooperate with French intelligence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ryan told the court he pleaded "partially guilty". "I acknowledge that I carried out the actions attributed to me, but I did so unknowingly and unintentionally. I am prepared to present evidence supporting this during the trial," he said. Ryan had been working in Azerbaijan for a food importing company that also offered consulting services. Prosecutors allege that he also facilitated contact between French intelligence and Azad Mammadli, an Azerbaijani citizen who is also on trial. Mammadli, who is accused of high treason and faces a sentence of 15 years to life imprisonment if convicted, pleaded not guilty at Monday's hearing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Relations between Azerbaijan and France have worsened sharply since Azerbaijan took back control of the previously Armenian-controlled Nagorno-Karabakh region in September 2023, three decades after it broke away from Baku. France has a large Armenian diaspora and supplies arms to Armenia. In November last year, France's climate minister cancelled a trip to attend U.N. talks in Baku, and France protested against "unacceptable" remarks, after Azerbaijan accused it of committing "crimes" in its overseas territories. (Reporting by Nailia Bagirova, writing by Filip Lebedev, editing by Mark Trevelyan and Timothy Heritage) A wave of book bans have hit school libraries in the last few years. (Getty Images) In a bit of linguistic gymnastics, a number of states have now banned book bans in public libraries and public schools. Nebraska should be next in banning book bans. Weve already hitched the Big Red Wagon to other states in lawsuits from voter registration to student loan debt and to federal regulatory authority. Although not a lawsuit, why not join this book club? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Illinois, Minnesota, California, Maryland, Colorado, Vermont and New Jersey have all passed laws that, among other things, ensure challenged titles are available to public school students and public library patrons who want to read them. The laws also protect librarians and administrators from running afoul of a spate of new laws moving in the opposite direction. Conversely, 15 states introduced legislation in 2024 that would punish, sometimes severely, those who oversee collections that include books targeted by banners. Legal protections for banned books in Nebraska would give librarians and public schools the same peace of mind for simply doing their jobs as they advocate for literacy all while preserving parents rights to opt their children out of assigned books they might find offensive. Nor does it prohibit parents from communicating with schools about books and curriculum, but it importantly recognizes and trusts the experience and expertise of librarians. Imagine this marketing campaign: Nebraska, the Good Life, Where Youre Free to Read What You Want. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The road to such sloganeering remains rutted and bumpy. Last March the Nebraska State Board of Education rejected a proposal to define and ban sexually explicit materials from school libraries. While the 5-3 vote sent one signal and individual districts could still be the target of bans five months later Gov. Jim Pillen sent his own message when he appointed a woman to the State Library Commission who had been recalled from the Plattsmouth Community Board of Education after she tried to ban 52 books there. If you thought book banning was a passing culture war fancy and peaked when Moms for Liberty were running amok at school board meetings and on social media, check the latest arithmetic. A Pen America report revealed 10,046 cases of banned books in 2023-24 compared to 3,362 in the prior school year. Pen America is a literacy advocacy group that has, since its inception in 1992, tracked censorship and book banning. It reports that banners most common targets were the usual suspects: books with characters of color, LGBTQ+ characters, sexual themes, religious topics and American histories detailing atrocities such as slavery. In a few of the states banning book bans, some school districts have indicated that to keep their bans in place, they may forgo state aid, the loss of which is a consequence for non-compliance. Whether that shows a real commitment, a nose-cutting-and-face situation out of spite or a dubious insistence on being right remains to be seen. I have no idea how it would help student academic performance or personal growth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The larger issue or question remains: Who is in charge of our childrens education? Local control with oversight through school boards has long been a crowd favorite. As funding sources vacillate between local property taxes and state funding, however, does that also shift control of curricular matters such as which books will grace the shelves of the school library or individual classrooms? While weve fought over state standards, they still guide school leaders in just what Johnny should be learning. Into this mix we must also stir in the federal rush to accountability when politicians entered classrooms without being in schools, passing the 1994 Improving Americas Schools Act, which repurposed the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA). Prior to that we read with growing alarm a Nation at Risk in 1983, which chronicled our educational failures in a race toward mediocrity. In 2002, No Child Left Behind became the law. Since then weve had smaller fits and starts to improve faltering test scores and to engage young minds in the age of TikTok. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most of that came from positive motives, at least among those closest to the action a classroom. Few if any, however, had an historic surge in book banning on their bingo cards. Which makes now the perfect time for Nebraska to step out smartly and commit not simply to reading, literacy and parental involvement in their childrens education, but also to the notion that paying attention to what a child reads in a book or, we should mention, online is a good idea. Insisting on limiting what others can read, however, is not. Nebraska should make it official. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX In late December Israeli forces raided the Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, forcibly evacuating its wards of patients and medical staff and arresting the hospitals prominent director, Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya. Venetia Rainey catches up with The Telegraphs Middle East correspondent Jotam Confino to find out more. Plus: the inside track on a migrant smuggling network that reaches from Afghanistans Herat to the French port of Calais. Our foreign correspondent Akhtar Makoii infiltrated the network for The Telegraph. Battle Lines, a podcast from The Telegraph, combines on-the-ground reporting with analytical expertise to help the listener to better understand the course of world politics, wars and tensions, as fault lines grind and slip in an increasingly dangerous and confusing multipolar world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Listen to Battle Lines using the audio player in this article or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or your favourite podcast app. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. As both sides prepare for a resolution to the long-running and bitter Fort Decatur blasting controversy in Ledyard, a conservation organization announced that Gales Ferry Intermodal LLC has donated part of the land and will give away more for preservation if its allowed to quarry dozens of other acres. The long-running, contentious hearing on the companys quarrying proposal for part of the 165-acre former Dow Chemical compound closed on Dec. 19, and the community is looking for a decision later this month. Just a week after the hearing ended, The Archaeological Conservancy, a national nonprofit, announced that Gales Ferry Intermodal had reached a deal to donate 3.4 acres to the conservancy. The company also offered another 5.9 acres, but contingent on winning approval for its quarrying plan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 3.4-acre area contains the heart of whats left of Fort Decatur, a significant installation built atop Mount Decatur during the War of 1812. The wooden fort is long gone, but stone gun mounts and other small vestiges remain on the property along the Thames River, along with a more recent monument. Gales Ferry Intermodal set off a wave of opposition from neighbors and preservationists when it proposed to blast 40 acres of Mount Decatur in a 10-year-long quarrying operation. Nearby homeowners balked at the prospect of noise and dust and warned that water contamination and more local traffic could also result. Historians argued that the whole area should be preserved as an archaeological site. Gales Ferry Intermodal had agreed from the start to preserve the footprint of the central fort, and the Archaeological Conservancy announced Dec. 26 a deal to save more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Representatives of GFI have agreed to donate 3.44 acres of their property, which contains the main portion of the Fort Decatur site, to the conservancy to be preserved for posterity, the organization said. An additional 5.87 acres, located to the south of the Eversource powerline corridor on the property, will also be donated to the Conservancy if GFI is able to secure approval for their plans to engage in development of the property. From the beginning, opponents have argued that GFIs blasting idea wasnt acceptable to the community. As the planning and zoning commission hearing ended Dec. 19, that opposition was still strong. GFIs proposal doesnt meet the towns long-term development plan, argued attorney Willard Carroll, who represents the Gales Ferry Fire District and nearby homeowners. There is a significant focus in the plan of conservation and development on protecting the rural and residential character of the town, protecting the environment, maintaining property values, minimizing the impact of development on natural resources, and protecting residential areas from incompatible forms of development, Carroll told commissioners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This application is reasonably likely to have unreasonable environmental effects and it should be denied, he told commissioners. But Harry Heller, Gales Ferry Intermodals attorney, presented a different view. He cited the companys extensive plan for pollution, water runoff and dust control as well as a detailed traffic study concluding the mining operation wouldnt be the problem that neighbors feared. Over the course of the past four months, you have consistently had 200 to 250 opponents of this project attending these hearings. That represents about 1.5% of Ledyards population, Heller said. He cited Connecticut court decisions where judges declared that zoning commissions must follow land use law, not the preferences of local public opinion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You have been implored throughout these hearings by residents of your community to protect them, to protect their rights and their homes, Heller said. Zoning regulations regulate land use in the community. Our client is just as entitled to the protection of these regulations as every other property owner and resident in your community. At the end of that meeting, the commission closed the hearing and agreed to begin deliberations Jan. 23 at the Ledyard Middle School auditorium. But even after that, the question may not be resolved No matter how you decide this application, it is very likely there will be an appeal, Carroll told commissioners. Bavarian Premier Markus Soder is concerned about the political developments in neighbouring Austria, where the far-right Freedom Party of Austria (FPO) has been given the task of forming a government. "First of all, it is a decision for Austria itself," said Soder, who leads the conservative Christian Social Union (CSU). "But the development is of course not good." The CSU is in alliance with the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) in national German politics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Soder warned that the rise of the FPO is proof that coalitions between conservative and Green parties ultimately only strengthen extremist forces. Austria has been governed by a coalition between the conservative Austrian People's Party (OVP) and the Austrian Greens since 2020. Soder also pointed out that the FPO has a different tradition to the AfD. The FPO is in government in many Austrian states and has been the junior partner in previous coalitions. In addition, he added, "German right-wing populists are always worse because they are always the worst of all." (KRON) A Bay Area Mexican taqueria chain has closed its doors after 15 years of business. Mexican restaurant chain C Casa announced on its website that the reimagined Mexican food restaurant has seen its last days. The statement that C Casa posted on its website informed patrons of the closure and thanked customers for the unforgettable years. San Franciscos Seal Rock Inn Restaurant reopens after 4 years Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the past 15 years, youve been part of our journeysharing meals, laughter, and memories, said the Mexican eatery. Were deeply thankful for your support, loyalty, and love for what we created together. C Casa had three locations: Napa, Emeryville and San Ramon, all of which are no longer in operation. Per C Casas website, the taqueria was known for its distinctive Tacos crafted with innovative ingredients like Spiced Ground Buffalo, Housemade Duck Confit and Seared Ahi Tuna. The closures occurred following the US Department of Labor fining the taqueria chain more than $45,000 for allowing minors employees as young as 14-years-old to work outside of permitted hours during school days and operate hazardous equipment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oakland BBQ eatery opens first location out of the Bay Area In the December filing, the departments Wage and Hour Division Assistant District Director Donald Hines said, C Casa Restaurant and Bar Napas practices endangered children and raised an unacceptable barrier to equitable workforce participation for women. In addition to child labor provision and Fair Labor standard violations, the department said C Casa failed to give a nursing employee the proper space to express breast milk throughout the workday. The restaurant was fined an additional $3,300 in wages to the nursing employee. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A majority of Tennesseans support a statewide cap on property tax hikes, providing state funding for private school vouchers, and a new federal agency focused on government efficiency, a new poll from the Beacon Center of Tennessee has found. Beacon, a conservative leaning think tank, conducted a poll of 1,200 registered voters between Dec. 16 and 27, with a margin of error of 2.77 percentage points. Support for private school vouchers grows As a fight over state-funded private school vouchers is set to take center stage in the legislature this year, public support for the policy has grown in recent months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked whether they support using "a portion of their per-pupil funding on certain educational expenses as private school tuition, tutoring, educational therapy or other educational purposes," 67% of respondents said they support Gov. Bill Lees proposal to expand educational choice to all families across Tennessee up from 58% support in October. Thirteen percent oppose the policy, Beacon found, while 20% remain undecided. Support for the policy was highest among Republicans (73%), but the majority of Democrats polled (51%) also support the proposal. Seventy-one percent of independents support the voucher proposal. Tennesseans dissatisfied with public education, skeptical of legislature's performance The majority of Tennesseans 54% reported being dissatisfied with the states K-12 public education system, while 11% reported being very satisfied with public education. Sixty-one percent of Tennesseans support expanding charter schools statewide, while 14% said they opposed, the poll found. More voters strongly disapprove of the state legislature's performance (16%) than strongly approve of it (11%), but more register approval (50%) than disapproval (42%). Eight percent of Tennessee voters have no opinion on the legislature's work. 81% support statewide cap on property tax hikes An overwhelming majority of Tennesseans 81% say there should be a limit on how much property taxes can be raised each year, requiring voter approval for increases beyond the limit. That's increased from last year, when a Beacon poll found 74% of voters support a cap on hikes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just 17% of Tennessee voters approve of the current system, which allows mayors and local legislative bodies to determine property tax increases. Tennessee is one of just five states that does not have a cap on property tax increases, according to the Tax Foundation. In the last several years, Rutherford County has raised property taxes 16%, Red Bank residents near Chattanooga saw a 52% property tax increase, and Nashville property taxes were raised by 34%. Tennessee does not levy a statewide property tax. A constitutional amendment has been proposed to prohibit the state from ever doing so. If approved, it could go on the ballot next year. High support for Trumps government efficiency plan Unsurprisingly, in a heavily Republican state, there is wide support for President-elect Donald Trumps proposed Department of Government Efficiency. Fifty-six percent of Tennessee voters say they are in favor of forming the new department, but many are skeptical that the proposal will actually improve government efficiency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just 36% of voters said they feel business backgrounds of SpaceX CEO Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy will be effective in improving government outcomes, while 23% said government is too different from business for the agency to be effective. Vivian Jones covers state government and politics for The Tennessean. Reach her at vjones@tennessean.com. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Beacon poll: Strong approval for property tax cap, school vouchers BANGKOK (AP) China has slammed a decision by the U.S. Treasury to sanction a Beijing-based cybersecurity company for its alleged role in multiple hacking incidents targeting critical U.S. infrastructure, while the Chinese cyber security agency complained Monday of attacks on Chinese networks. Asked about the sanctions against Beijing-based Integrity Technology Group, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said the country has cracked down on cyber attacks and that Washington was using the issue to defame and smear China. For some time now, the U.S. side has been playing up so-called Chinese cyber attacks and has even initiated illegal unilateral sanctions against China, Guo said. China firmly opposes this and will take necessary measures to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Integrity Technology Group said the move by Washington had no factual basis. The company firmly opposes the U.S. Treasury Department's unwarranted accusations and Illegal unilateral sanctions on the company, the company, also known as Yongxin Zhicheng Technology Group, said in a statement Monday to the Shanghai Stock Exchange. The China National Cyber Security Information Center said it had discovered attacks from various malicious websites and foreign IP addresses, including some in California and Florida. It also reported attacks from the Netherlands, Singapore, Mexico, Turkey and Vietnam using Trojan programs, botnets, phishing, theft of intellectual property and violations of privacy. They pose a major threat to China's domestic networked units and internet users and some activities have been suspected of criminal offenses, the center said in a notice on its WeChat social media site. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Friday, the Treasurys Office of Foreign Assets Control hit Integrity Technology with sanctions that block access to U.S. property and bank accounts and prevent the targeted people and companies from doing business with Americans. It cited alleged multiple hacks against U.S. victims, including incidents attributed to Flax Typhoon, a Chinese state-sponsored campaign that targets U.S. critical infrastructure. The sanctions did not appear to be related to an incident in which the Treasury Department reported that Chinese hackers had remotely accessed several of its workstations and unclassified documents in a major breach of cybersecurity. The Treasury Department said it learned of that problem on Dec. 8, when a third-party software service provider, BeyondTrust, flagged that hackers had stolen a key used by the vendor to secure a cloud-based service used to remotely provide technical support to workers. U.S. officials are grappling with the fallout from a massive Chinese cyberespionage blitz known as Salt Typhoon that they say gave officials in Beijing access to private texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Late last month, officials said at least eight telecommunications companies, as well as dozens of nations, had been affected by Salt Typhoon. Integrity Technology said the sanctions would not adversely affect its business since it does not operate in the U.S. and has no assets there. It added that it abides by all laws and regulations and that it has always adhered to the corporate vision and mission of bringing a sense of security to the world. NEW YORK, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- United Airlines Holdings Inc. expects to begin using SpaceX's Starlink for inflight Wi-Fi in the spring, an earlier-than-expected rollout for the first major U.S. carrier to use Elon Musk's satellite business. But only members of the carrier's loyalty program will get the service free, said the company in a statement on Sunday. "This marks a departure from the airline's original plans to offer it to all passengers for free, a move likely designed to draw in new MileagePlus participants," reported Bloomberg News about the development. The service will first be available on an Embraer SA E175, with the entire two-class regional jet fleet equipped with Starlink by the end of this year, said the airline. The first mainline jet will be outfitted before the end of 2025, it said. The new timeline compares with earlier projections for testing to start early this year with the first passenger flight later in the year. In the United States, Hawaiian Holdings Inc. and public charter carrier JSX use Starlink. Outside of the United States, Starlink is used by Qatar Airways QCSC, while Air Baltic Corp., Air New Zealand Ltd. and ZIPAIR Tokyo Inc. have announced agreements with the company. Natalia Eismont, spokesperson for self-proclaimed Belarusian president Alexander Lukashenko, has denied that Lukashenko apologised to Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a telephone conversation that took place during the first few days of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. Source: Eismont in a comment to Russian media outlet RBC Details: Eismont confirmed that a conversation with Zelenskyy had taken place in the early days of Russia's full-scale invasion. She said it had occurred "solely due to the emotional reaction of Lukashenko's youngest son Nikolai, who had Zelenskyy as a personal contact in his phone". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote: "This was the essence of the conversation: first and foremost, our president said that the conflict [the Russo-Ukrainian war ed.] had erupted on Ukrainian land, on Zelenskyy's territory, and that in the fullness of time, it would be him more than anyone who would be held accountable for peoples deaths! That is why our president called for negotiations, and this was done: three rounds in Belarus, and subsequently in Istanbul. The president of Belarus did not offer Zelenskyy any apologies, for the simple reason that we have nothing to apologise for." Background: Zelenskyy revealed in an interview with American podcaster Lex Fridman that on the second or third day of Russia's full-scale invasion, Lukashenko apologised in a phone call for the missile strikes being launched on Ukraine from Belarusian territory and even suggested that Ukraine retaliate by striking the Mozyr Oil Refinery in Belarus. Support UP or become our patron! A 12-year-old Nevada girl was arrested on suspicion of stabbing her father following an altercation just days after Christmas. Police in North Las Vegas, Nev., received a call on the evening of Dec. 27, from a relative of the girl, who believed her father was dead in the apartment where the two lived. The caller said the girl suspected that someone might have broken into the home. Jaycee Lenarz/GoFundMe James Waldie. James Waldie. Police arrived and declared 55-year-old James Waldie, the girl's father, deceased. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During their investigation, detectives discovered that police had responded multiple times to the apartment previously in the month of December, with the girl being accused of battering her father, leaving him with visible injuries, and running away multiple times, including the day of the killing. 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. After allegedly providing conflicting accounts of the events on Dec. 27, investigators say she eventually confessed to stabbing her father following a disagreement between them. The girl was arrested and booked into the Clark County Juvenile Detention Center on a charge of murder with the use of a deadly weapon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Mom Arrested After Her Malnourished 4-Year-Old Allegedly Wasnt Given Solid Food for 6 Months The loss has "devastated the family and friends of James, knowing that he will never again crack a joke or put on a smile on someone else's face," Waldie's family members wrote in a GoFundMe fundraising appeal, seeking donations for funeral expenses and "keepsake necklaces for his ashes." Waldie was a father to four daughters, two stepdaughters, one son, and two stepsons, as well as a grandfather to two, per his obituary. "James's memory will forever be enshrined in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those whose lives were touched by his kindness," reads the obituary. Read the original article on People No, you werent hallucinating that giant Pikachu making its way through downtown Sacramento this weekend. That costumed fan was one of more than 20,000 attendees of SacAnime, a 20-year-running convention celebrating all things anime, fandom and nerd culture. The three-day show was an opportunity for fans to connect both with one another and with the creatives behind their favorite shows and video games. About half of the attendees showed up in character cosplay to varying degrees of commitment. At any given time within the two blocks between the Sheraton Grand Hotel and the Memorial Auditorium, you could spot three Luffys from One Piece, a couple Narutos and at least one Sailor Moon, of course. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like Sacramento itself, the convention has experienced significant change and growth in the past two decades. Alexander Arevalos, SacAnime longtime communications director, said that the event has seen a three-fold increase in attendance from a decade ago when the show first expanded to the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center. The 20th anniversary offers a kind of reflection point on where were at now, he said. It gives the staff a moment to go, this is what weve accomplished but the job satisfaction comes from seeing the attendees having fun. Arevalos, a lifelong anime fan himself, said that he credits the conventions growth to prioritizing the fan experience and diversifying the types of events it offers. Panels and meet-and-greets with anime voice actors have long been key aspects of the show, but securing additional space at the Memorial Auditorium allowed them to offer more experiences, like a gaming hall, a K-pop dance workshop and live musical performances. Local vendors enjoy con as artists and fans The other main draw of the event is the Artists Alley, a room featuring 150 vendors selling any anime fan could ever want steel replicas of famous swords, custom Pokemon terrariums, fan art and comics along with plushies and funko pops as far as the eye could see. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beyond the plastic, several Northern California artists attended the con both as fans and as vendors to sell their wares. Mixed media artist Christian Davila of Chico has found that their 3-D printed bird sculptures fashioned with feathers made from the pages of Harry Potter novels sell more successfully at conventions than at artisan fairs. They said that their work is appealing to the many English teachers and librarians who attend fandom conventions. A couple of booths down, organizers of the Queer Sacramento Authors Collective marketed dozens of science fiction and fantasy novels written by local queer authors. It is their second time at Sac Anime, but QSAC founder J. Scott Coatsworth said that they have felt welcomed by the community, especially given that so many attendees are gay or transgender. Chris Johnson, a Placerville resident and artist behind the Bearded Brush and Blade, likes that SacAnime gives him a chance to share his Norse-inspired fan art of beloved anime and fantasy characters. The weekend event also gives him a chance to meet the people behind the characters he has idolized for most of his life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Sunday morning, Johnson met Christopher Sabat, the voice actor for Dragon Ball franchise Vegeta. In a spontaneous move, Johnson decided to gift Sabat a 4-foot-tall painting of Vegeta that served as the centerpiece of his booth. In return, Sabat gave Johnson a signed print reading, in part, I got the painting! Johnson called the exchange the highlight of all of the cons hes done. That was the best, he said. Of course, I planned on selling it, but Melissa, who is in charge of the Artists Alley, she was telling me that its a spur-of-the-moment experience, which is true. Ive been trying to meet him for all of these years. More than exchanging memorabilia with a longtime hero, Johnson said that he was happy to participate in an event that spreads positivity. Its important to be a part of something that makes people happy, he said. While Jeff Bezos spent his holidays jetting from Aspen to his yacht on St. Barths, Amazon workers faced grueling work schedules and high-risk work environments during the companys peak season. According to a new report by the Bezos-owned Washington Post, the Amazon execs solution to the companys mass influx of orders and returns from Black Friday through January is to implement Mandatory Extra Time that forces some employees to work five eleven-hour shifts rather than their usual four ten-hour shifts. Despite a spokesperson for the company telling the Post that employees are paid overtime for additional hours, and explaining that workers cant be asked to work more than 60 hours in one week, 12 hours in a one day, or six days in a row, the companys peak season policies led to managers in one Amazon warehouses feeling the need to remind workers to practice basic personal hygiene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amazon, employees reportedly claim, uses incentive pay, free drinks from 7-Eleven, raffles to win water bottles, and stress balls from roving swag carts to keep staff motivated amid strenuous demands. The raffle prizes, however, have seemingly declined in quality compared to previous years. The stuff they was giving out wasnt worth it, one longtime employee told the Post. Its like, yall done made a billion dollars, and this is all you can offer for a prize? For Amazon delivery drivers, who work for contractors, not the online retailer itself, peak season entails longer hours and extra packages. This year, some drivers received $5 tips from customers who were prompted to thank their drivers via Amazons app, and coupons for free drinks from 7-Eleven each week to help them stay warm and refreshed. Meanwhile, over the holidays, Bezos and his fiancee, Lauren Sanchez, were spotted partying in Aspen with Jared Kushner, Ivanka Trump, and Kevin Costner before jetting off to St. Barths, where customs officials conducted a surprise raid on his $500 million superyacht, Koru. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amazon spokesperson Steve Kelly told the Post that, during peak season, the company places an extra emphasis on recognizing, honoring, and celebrating our employees for their commitment to safety, teamwork, and service to our customers, and that employees are encouraged to share ideas for new appreciation programs with local managers. A Senate report in July, however, found that workplace injuries increase during Amazons busy seasons with the company seeing more than 10 annual injuries per 100 workers, double the industry average. These injuries, the report detailed, were part of Amazons corporate culture obsessed with speed and productivity which has resulted in systemic safety failures and high rates of injury. The reports findings were echoed just before Christmas when an Amazon delivery driver in Massachusetts described being stressed after abandoning more than 80 packages in the woods. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The exhausting environment within Amazon facilities led to workers at more than seven delivery stations and fulfillment centers in New York, California, Illinois, and Georgia walking off the job to demand higher pay, better working conditions, and for Amazon to bargain on a contract with workers whove voted to unionize with the help of the Teamsters. In 2023, the company generated more than $36.9 billion in profits, and Bezos himself is the second richest person in the world, with a net worth of approximately $238.6 billion, according to Forbes. (Bloomberg) -- President Joe Biden said hes determined to peacefully hand over power later this month, while warning against efforts to downplay the violent mob assault on the US Capitol that sought to prevent certification of his own election four years ago. Most Read from Bloomberg Writing in a Washington Post op-ed published online the evening before lawmakers meet to count the Electoral College votes that will confirm Donald Trump as his successor, Biden said hes determined to do everything I can to respect the peaceful transfer of power and restore the traditions we have long respected in America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The election will be certified peacefully, Biden wrote. I have invited the incoming president to the White House on the morning of Jan. 20, and I will be present for his inauguration that afternoon. Biden also noted that Vice President Kamala Harris, as president of the Senate, is also set to preside as Congress counts the Electoral College votes, which will conclude with lawmakers formally certifying her loss. Trump has repeatedly downplayed the events of Jan. 6, 2021, and suggested many have been unfairly prosecuted for their participation in it. As president, Trump would have the authority to fully pardon those involved or shorten sentences through commutations. Biden, without mentioning Trump by name, said an unrelenting effort has been underway to rewrite even erase the history of that day and to tell us we didnt see what we all saw with our own eyes. He said Americans cannot forget, and instead should remember Jan. 6 as a day when our democracy was put to the test and prevailed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. President Joe Biden snapped at several reporters Sunday when asked about his age during a White House event to celebrate the signing of the Social Security Fairness Act. My being the oldest president, I know more world leaders than any one of you ever met in your whole goddamn life, Biden, 82, told the press. Its not the first time hes taken a jab at journalists. In November, Biden was asked by a reporter if he would be able to reach a hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas before his time in office is over. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Do you think you can keep from getting hit in the head by a camera behind you? Biden asked the reporter. On Sunday, Biden was also asked about his previous comments about President-elect Donald Trump being a threat to democracy. I think what he did was a genuine threat to democracy, Biden said. Bidens comments came as he signed the Social Security Fairness Act, which is intended to boost the Social Security benefits of almost three million public workers. The legislation, which was supported by both Democrats and Republicans, repealed two provisions that limited the benefits of some Social Security recipients who also receive pension income. U.S. President Joe Biden speaks to the press as he prepares to depart a bill signing event in the East Room of the White House, where he signed the Social Security Fairness Act on January 5, 2025, in Washington, DC. Biden snapped at reporters over the issue of his age (Getty Images) The bipartisan law means that teachers, firefighters, police officers, and other public-sector workers who also receive pension income will see a rise in their social security benefits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law eliminates the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset. The WEP limits social security benefits for those who receive a pension or disability from employment for which social security payroll taxes werent withheld. According to CNBC, about two million beneficiaries were affected as of December 2023. The GPO reduces the benefits for spouses, widows, and widowers who get income from their own government pensions, affecting nearly 750,000 beneficiaries as of December 2023. By signing this bill, were extending Social Security benefits for millions of teachers, nurses, and other public employees and their spouses and survivors, Biden said. That means an estimated average of $360 per month increase. (Reuters) - U.S. President Joe Biden will ban new offshore oil and gas development along most U.S. coastlines, a decision President-elect Donald Trump, who has vowed to boost domestic energy production, may find difficult to reverse. The move is considered mostly symbolic, as it will not impact areas where oil and gas development is currently underway, and mainly covers zones where drillers have no important prospects, including in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The White House said on Monday that Biden will use his authority under the 70-year-old Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to protect all federal waters off the East and West coasts, the eastern Gulf of Mexico and portions of the northern Bering Sea in Alaska. The ban will affect 625 million acres (253 million hectares) of ocean. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden said the move was aligned with both his efforts to combat climate change and his goal to conserve 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030. He also invoked the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, saying the low drilling potential of the areas included in the ban did not justify the public health and economic risks of future leasing. "My decision reflects what coastal communities, businesses, and beachgoers have known for a long time: that drilling off these coasts could cause irreversible damage to places we hold dear and is unnecessary to meet our nation's energy needs," Biden said in a statement. "It is not worth the risks." Around 15% of U.S. oil production comes from federal offshore acreage, mainly in the Gulf of Mexico, a share that has been falling sharply in the last decade as drilling onshore booms, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The United States is now the world's top oil and gas producer thanks to big increases in production from places like Texas and New Mexico, fueled by improved drilling technology and strong demand since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The announcement comes as Trump has pledged to reverse Biden's conservation and climate change policies when he takes office later this month. "It's ridiculous. I'll unban it immediately. I will unban it. I have the right to unban it immediately," Trump said in an interview on the Hugh Hewitt radio program. During his term, Biden also limited new oil and gas leasing on federal lands and waters, drawing criticism from drilling states and companies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the Lands Act, which allows presidents to withdraw areas from mineral leasing and drilling, does not grant them the legal authority to overturn prior bans, according to a 2019 court ruling - meaning a reversal would likely require an act of Congress. That order came in response to Trump's effort to reverse Arctic and Atlantic Ocean withdrawals made by former President Barack Obama at the end of his presidency. Trump also used the Lands Act to ban sales of offshore drilling rights in the eastern Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Florida through 2032. Biden's decision will protect the same area with no expiration. It is unclear whether lawmakers would support reversing Biden's decision to protect these waters. An oil and gas industry trade group said the decision would harm American energy security and should be reversed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We urge policymakers to use every tool at their disposal to reverse this politically motivated decision and restore a pro-American energy approach to federal leasing," American Petroleum Institute President Mike Sommers said in a statement. Environmental group Oceana called it a victory for Americans who depend on clean coastlines and fisheries. "Our treasured coastal communities are now safeguarded for future generations, Oceana Campaign Director Joseph Gordon said in a statement. (Reporting by Nichola Groom; Editing by Christian Schmollinger and Mark Porter) As Florida residents shivered in the blast of Arctic air, the Biden administration was busy over the weekend. Among the actions President Joe Biden took was to ban certain natural gas water heaters, a move many said could send prices soaring, especially for the elderly and the poor. Here's what you should know. Biden bans natural gas-fired water heaters Under the new ruling issued by outgoing President Joe Biden, new non-condensing, natural gas-fired water heaters would be prohibited for sale starting in 2029 due to concerns about carbon-dioxide emissions, according to the New York Post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the policy takes effect, as it is slated to on March 11, a little less than 40% of the tankless water heaters currently on the market would be banned, according to an estimate from the Appliance Standards Awareness Project. The new rules, which were published by the Department of Energy in December 2024, also stipulate new tankless gas water heaters must rely on 13% less energy than the least efficient comparable model on the markets today. Why did Biden ban certain hot water heaters? The intention is to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, which climate change advocates and Biden said cause global warming, according to Fox Business. Biden's ban followed ruling from Department of Energy issued in December 2024 The 361-page ruling issued by the Department of Energy set energy conservation standards for consumer gas-fired instantaneous water heaters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It has determined that the amended energy conservation standards for these products would result in significant conservation of energy, and are technologically feasible and economically justified," the agency said. What type of water heaters would public be able to buy? "Customers will be pushed toward buying models that are more expensive or lean on non-instantaneous storage tank water heaters, which are generally cheaper but tend to be less efficient than the ones that are facing a ban," according to the New York Post. The new rules will require new tankless gas water heaters to use about 13% less energy than todays least efficient tankless models, according to Fox Business. "The rules apply to both non-condensing and condensing gas water heaters, but the rules increase efficiency requirements to a threshold that only condensing models can meet, effectively banning the cheaper but less efficient non-condensing models," according to The Washington Free Beacon. Condensing technology wastes less heat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rinnai America's which calls itself the leader in tankless technology tankless non-condensing natural gas water heater goes for roughly $1,000 at Home Depot, while a comparable condensing 75-gallon tank goes for about $1,800. Where are tankless water heaters normally used? Tankless technology is frequently used in smaller apartments or housing spaces, which means that a lot of lower-income and elderly people tend to use those types of water heaters, according to the New York Post. Forcing low-income and senior customers to pay far more upfront is particularly concerning. DOEs decision to go ahead with a flawed final rule is deeply disappointing, according to Matthew Agen, the American Gas Associations chief counsel for energy. Would customers save money with the new water heaters? The Department of Energy estimated the costs saved over the long run by the new rules would be about $112 over a roughly 20-year stretch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Overall, under the regulations, roughly 40 percent of the new tankless water heaters available in the United States today would be taken off the market by 2029, the Washington Free Beacon reported. "Experts and industry officials said that would force consumers to purchase either more expensive or less efficient water heater models. "One industry analysis estimates that consumers will pay $450 more on average when purchasing new water heaters," according to the Free Beacon report. Read DOE standards for gas-fired instantaneous water heaters Pros, cons over new water heater rules The Department of Energy estimated the new standards "are projected to yield significant environmental benefits" between 2030 and 2059, including reductions of: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 32 million metric tons of carbon dioxide 0.12 thousand tons of sulfur dioxide 86 thousand tons of nitrogen oxide398 thousand tons of methane The Appliance Standards Awareness Project supported the new rule. This is a commonsense step that will lower total household costs while reducing planet-warming emissions, said Andrew deLaski, executive director of the Appliance Standards Awareness Project. According to its website, the Appliance Standards Awareness Project "advocates for appliance, equipment, and lighting standards that cut planet-warming emissions and other air pollution, save water, and reduce economic and environmental burdens for low- and moderate-income households." These long-awaited standards will ensure more families save with proven energy-efficient technology already used in a majority of tankless units. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Appliance Standards Awareness Project Fact Sheet Critics said the ban on certain natural gas water heaters would increase energy costs for low-income and senior households, according to Fox Business. Matthew Agen, the American Gas Associations chief counsel for energy, blasted the move, labeling it "deeply concerning and irresponsible." "The DOEs own analysis claims the average life-cycle cost savings would amount to barely $112 over the entire 20-year average product life," Agen added. "It's one more example of an appliance regulation that raises costs and reduces choices," Ben Lieberman, a senior fellow at the Competitive Enterprise Institute, told the Washington Free Beacon. "It bans an entire category of tankless water heaters and the ones that are most affordable." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If you really want to impact the water heating ruling, you really need to deal with the tank models," Frank Windsor, the president of water heater manufacturer Rinnai America, told the Beacon. This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Biden bans hot water heater types. 8 things to know (Bloomberg) -- President Joe Biden is indefinitely blocking offshore oil and gas development in more than 625 million acres of US coastal waters, warning that drilling there is simply not worth the risks and unnecessary to meet the nations energy needs. Most Read from Bloomberg Bidens move is enshrined in a pair of presidential memoranda being issued Monday, burnishing his legacy on conservation and fighting climate change just two weeks before President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Yet unlike other actions Biden has taken to constrain fossil fuel development, this one could be harder for Trump to unwind, since its rooted in a 72-year-old provision of federal law that empowers presidents to withdraw US waters from oil and gas leasing without explicitly authorizing revocations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden is ruling out future oil and gas leasing along the US East and West Coasts, the eastern Gulf of Mexico and a sliver of the Northern Bering Sea an area teeming with seabirds, marine mammals, fish and other wildlife that indigenous people have depended on for millennia. The action doesnt affect energy development under existing offshore leases, and it wont prevent the sale of more drilling rights in Alaskas gas-rich Cook Inlet or the central and western Gulf of Mexico, which together provide about 14% of US oil and gas production. The president cast the move as achieving a careful balance between conservation and energy security. It is clear to me that the relatively minimal fossil fuel potential in the areas I am withdrawing do not justify the environmental, public health and economic risks that would come from new leasing and drilling, Biden said in a statement. We do not need to choose between protecting the environment and growing our economy, or between keeping our ocean healthy, our coastlines resilient and the food they produce secure and keeping energy prices low. Some of the areas Biden is protecting were already withdrawn from oil and gas leasing by Trump during the final weeks of the 2020 presidential campaign. But the incoming presidents protections for waters hugging Floridas west coast and the southeast US were set to expire in 2032, whereas Biden is making them permanent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump on Monday vowed to reverse Bidens actions as soon as he takes office. Ill un-ban it immediately, Trump said in an interview on the Hugh Hewitt Show. I have the right to un-ban it immediately. Whats he doing? Why is he doing it? Trump could issue an order revoking the designations as soon as hes inaugurated, just as he did with President Barack Obamas withdrawals in 2017. Yet an Alaska-based federal district court rejected Trumps reversal, and no appeals court has ever ruled on the matter. Republican and Democratic politicians from coastal states have pushed to keep some of the affected waters free from drilling, especially near Florida and along the US West Coast. The 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster, which killed 10 people and spewed millions of barrels of crude, highlighted the enduring risks of offshore drilling, particularly for coastal communities whose economies are intertwined with tourism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are excited and thankful that the Biden administration recognizes the immense value of Floridas Gulf Coast, said Martha Collins, executive director of the Healthy Gulf nonprofit advocacy group. From its white sandy beaches to its vibrant marine life, Floridas Gulf Coast defines a way of life cherished by millions, and todays decision helps protect this special area from industrial oil and gas operations. Industry Reaction Oil industry leaders panned the move, saying widespread restrictions even on territory thats of little interest for drilling now undermine domestic energy potential. Such blanket bans threaten our economic and national security by creating political barriers to our own resources, said Erik Milito, president of the National Ocean Industries Association. Even if theres no immediate interest in some areas, its crucial for the federal government to maintain the flexibility to adapt its energy policy, especially in response to unexpected global changes like the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US oil industry has long lobbied for more opportunities offshore, where wells tapping conventional reserves can yield crude for decades unlike the smaller jackpots from onshore shale development. But theres a long chain of activity between the initial sale of an offshore lease and eventual production. There are no active oil and gas leases in federal waters in the Bering Sea or along the US East Coast, where Biden is protecting some 334 million acres from Canada to the southern tip of Florida. Roughly four dozen wells were drilled off the US East Coast in the 1970s and 1980s, but the areas last sale of leases was in 1983, and oil has never been produced from the region. Oil companies hold about a dozen leases in the eastern Gulf of Mexico and roughly 30 in federal waters near southern California, where the last lease sale was held in 1984. Those are unaffected by the withdrawals. The US government is currently on track to hold just three auctions of drilling rights in the Gulf of Mexico over the next five years, under an anemic plan developed by the Biden administration. Congressional Republicans have been considering mandating more sales as a way to raise revenue that can offset the cost of extending tax cuts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement --With assistance from Stephanie Lai, Michelle Jamrisko and Chloe Whiteaker. (Updates to add Trump remarks in paragraphs 7-8) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Investing in profitable companies when their stock prices offer high yields can be very rewarding over the long term. If you have a few hundred dollars that you don't need for reducing debt or covering other living expenses, there are solid companies offering tempting dividend yields right now. Realty Income (NYSE: O), Target (NYSE: TGT), and Philip Morris International (NYSE: PM) have dividend yields that are well above the S&P 500 average of 1.24%. Here's why three fool.com contributors believe they are smart buys for 2025 and beyond. A forever stock ready for 2025 Jennifer Saibil (Realty Income): Realty Income is one of the best dividend stocks to own at any time, but 2025 could be an important year for the real estate industry in general, and Realty Income's business could be even stronger than usual. Realty Income is a real estate investment trust (REIT). This is a structure where companies pay out 90% of their earnings as dividends, which is why REITs are great dividend stocks. The typical setup is that they own properties and rent them out, usually to a specific sector. Realty Income is a retail REIT, and it leases properties to retail chains like Walmart and Home Depot. Since it leases predominantly to high-quality tenants that sell essentials, it has demonstrated resilience throughout the last five years, starting with the pandemic and heading into the recent poor real estate climate. It has an occupancy rate of 98.7%, and it rarely dips below that. It has become one of the largest REITs in the world with more than 15,000 properties, and it grows through a mix of buying new properties and acquiring smaller REITs. It has a comfortable cash position to keep that up and has identified plenty of new targets to expand and fund its dividned. There are several reasons why Realty Income is one of the best REITs out there. One is the strength of its business. A great dividend stock starts with a well-established business. Other features to add on top of that are a long track record of increases, reliable payments, and a high yield. Realty Income has paid a dividend for 654 consecutive months, and it has raised it for 109 consecutive quarters. It is one of the few companies that pay a monthly dividend, an extra feature that makes it even more attractive. The dividend yields 5.9% at the current price, well above the S&P 500 average, and higher than many REITs. Often, when a REIT's dividend yield gets very high, it's a red flag and implies risk. Realty Income's stock is down on consumer pessimism about the real estate industry, but it's managing effectively through the turbulence. The yield is usually high, but it's higher than average due to short-term concerns. This is more than an opportunity to buy on the dip, which investors shouldn't miss. It's an opportunity to buy an excellent, all-weather stock that pays a high yield rain or shine, and every month to boot. Shortly before the end of his term in office this month, US President Joe Biden is pushing through far-reaching protection of US waters from further oil and gas extraction. The two "presidential memoranda" issued on Monday exempt all areas of the outer continental shelf off the east and west coasts of the country, the eastern Gulf of Mexico and other parts of the northern Bering Sea in Alaska from future oil and gas production. They will be in force indefinitely. "My decision reflects what coastal communities, businesses, and beachgoers have known for a long time: that drilling off these coasts could cause irreversible damage to places we hold dear and is unnecessary to meet our nations energy needs. It is not worth the risks," Biden said in the statement released by the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As the climate crisis continues to threaten communities across the country and we are transitioning to a clean energy economy, now is the time to protect these coasts for our children and grandchildren," he said. Biden said the call for greater protection of the oceans had come from "Republican and Democratic governors, members of Congress, and coastal communities." In contrast, a spokeswoman for the transition team of Biden's successor, Donald Trump, described the decision as "disgraceful," according to US media. Karoline Leavitt said it was aimed at taking revenge on the voters who had given Trump the mandate to expand drilling and lower gas prices. Biden insisted in his statement: "We do not need to choose between protecting the environment and growing our economy, or between keeping our ocean healthy, our coastlines resilient, and the food they produce secure and keeping energy prices low. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Those are false choices." In total, Biden has placed more than 270 million hectares of land and water belonging to the US under protection. The US is the world's largest oil producer and also the largest oil consumer. By Gram Slattery WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Joe Biden implored Americans in an op-ed published on Sunday not to forget the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, writing that the country has a collective obligation to remember the events of that day. The article, published in The Washington Post, comes a day before the U.S. Congress will meet to formally certify Republican Donald Trump's election as president and nearly four years after a mob of his supporters stormed the Capitol in a failed bid to block the certification of his 2020 election loss. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We must remember the wisdom of the adage that any nation that forgets its past is doomed to repeat it," Biden wrote. "We cannot accept a repeat of what occurred four years ago." He added that the election certification process would be peaceful this time around. Biden has consistently portrayed Trump as a threat to democracy, and he has pointed to Trump's failure to accept defeat in the 2020 election as proof. The president made defense of democracy a central element of his re-election campaign, which he abandoned in July after mounting concerns about his age. Kamala Harris, who replaced Biden atop the Democratic ticket, portrayed Trump in similar terms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump was federally indicted for his efforts to overturn the 2020 election, which he lost, but the case moved slowly and was nowhere near resolution by the time he won the 2024 election in November. Trump, who will start a second non-consecutive term in two weeks, does not acknowledge his 2020 election loss as legitimate, and he and his allies have peddled false theories about the events of Jan. 6, 2021. He has promised to issue widespread pardons of people convicted of crimes related to the Jan. 6 attack. Many of the convictions related to assaulting law enforcement officers, among other felonies. "An unrelenting effort has been underway to rewrite - even erase - the history of that day. To tell us we didn't see what we all saw with our own eyes," Biden wrote in the Washington Post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "In time, there will be Americans who didn't witness the Jan. 6 riot firsthand but will learn about it from footage and testimony of that day, from what is written in history books and from the truth we pass on to our children. We cannot allow the truth to be lost." (Reporting by Gram Slattery; Editing by Don Durfee and Raju Gopalakrishnan) Joe Biden has announced a ban on offshore oil and gas extraction covering most US coastlines, days after Donald Trump branded the UKs similar crackdown on North Sea drilling a big mistake. President Biden, who has only two weeks left in power, on Monday announced a ban on drilling covering more than 625m acres of the US ocean, including the East and West coasts, the eastern Gulf of Mexico and Alaskas Northern Bering Sea. The President said he was taking action to protect Americas oceans and coasts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the policy drew an immediate rebuke from Mr Trump, who vowed to reverse the policy on day one. The ban on offshore drilling echoes Labours policy in the North Sea, where Ed Miliband, the Energy Secretary, has blocked new drilling licences. A local industry group has said the decision amounts to game-over territory for Britains oil and gas industry. Mr Trump criticised Britains energy policy last week, writing on his Truth Social platform that the UK is making a very big mistake and urging Sir Keir Starmer to open up the North Sea. Mr Biden said in a statement: Drilling off these coasts could cause irreversible damage to places we hold dear and is unnecessary to meet our nations energy needs. It is not worth the risks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the climate crisis continues to threaten communities across the country and we are transitioning to a clean energy economy, now is the time to protect these coasts for our children and grandchildren. The president referred to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill as a solemn reminder of the risks involved. The 2010 accident claimed 11 lives and saw millions of barrels of oil spilled into the Gulf of Mexico. US President referred to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill as a solemn reminder of the risks involved ub offshore drilling - Gerald Herbert/AP Mr Biden said: In balancing the many uses and benefits of Americas ocean, it is clear to me that the relatively minimal fossil fuel potential in the areas I am withdrawing do not justify the environmental, public health, and economic risks that would come from new leasing and drilling. Trump vows to reverse ban on day one Mr Trump immediately vowed to reverse the ban. The president-elect told conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt: Itll be changed on day one. I can change it immediately. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I will unban it immediately. I have the right to unban it. We cant let that happen to our country. The US has oil and gas at a level that nobody else has and were gonna take advantage of it, he said, adding it was really our greatest economic asset. The cost of Brent crude oil rose by 1.2pc to more than $77 a barrel in the immediate aftermath of the announcement, before falling back to trade near $76.50. Reversing Mr Bidens ban may prove easier said than done. He has issued two so-called Presidential Memoranda prohibiting all future oil and natural gas leasing in the affected areas with no expiration date. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Typically, executive orders by an outgoing president can easily be revoked. However, Mr Biden is using his authority under a law from 1953 that gives the White House scope to permanently protect US waters from oil and gas leasing. However, the law does not explicitly give presidents the power to later revoke such designations. Mr Biden has rushed to strengthen environmental measures after Mr Trumps victory in November. Mr Trump, who campaigned under the slogan drill, baby, drill, has previously called green energy a scam and vowed to approve new drilling, pipelines and refiners immediately after the start of his second presidency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Republican has also vowed to undo many of the green subsidies introduced by the Democrat. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. (Bloomberg) -- President Joe Biden signed into law a bill that will increase Social Security benefits for millions of Americans his first public bill signing ceremony in more than two years. Most Read from Bloomberg The Social Security Fairness Act will boost Social Security payments to more than 2.5 million retirees some by as much as $550 a month by changing the formulas used to reduce benefits for certain beneficiaries: those receiving foreign pensions, and those on government retirement plans for police officers, firefighters and teachers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Americans who have worked hard all their lives to earn an honest living should be able to retire with economic security and dignity, Biden said before signing the bill at the White House. The law that existed denied millions of Americans access to the full Social Security benefits they earn by thousands of dollars a year. Bidens rare Sunday signing ceremony likely to be the last of his presidency marked the end of a long period of legislative powerlessness for a president who campaigned on his decades-long resume as a lawmaker. Before Democrats lost control of the House of Representatives in the 2022 midterm elections, Biden held White House ceremonies to provide Covid relief, establish Juneteenth as a federal holiday, expand veterans benefits, tighten gun control, build infrastructure and boost clean energy. While Biden touted those legislative achievements in his aborted reelection campaign, bill-signing ceremonies became vanishingly rare in the last half of his presidency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bill-signing ceremonies can be a revealing but imperfect measure of a presidents legislative achievements. The president signs hundreds of bills a year, but most are routine and are signed in private. Biden quietly signed 48 such bills on Saturday, including ones to create a new government website, sell federal property and rename post offices. That makes public ceremonies an indicator of which legislative achievements a president is proudest of. Presidents often use multiple pens to affix his signature so that he can hand them out as souvenirs The Social Security bill, passed by the last Congress without visible support from the White House, received bipartisan majorities in both chambers: 327-75 in the House and 76-20 in the Senate. The White House announced only on Friday that Biden would sign it. Bidens 27 signing ceremonies are the fewest in any presidents first term since George H.W. Bush. President Donald Trump held 42 bill-signing ceremonies in his first four years, but also perfected the art of holding pomp-filled events to sign executive orders, memos and celebratory proclamations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were extending Social Security benefits for millions of teachers, nurses and other public employees and the spouses and survivors, Biden said Sunday. That means an estimated average of $360 per month increase. --With assistance from Hadriana Lowenkron and Maria Paula Mijares Torres. 2025 Bloomberg L.P. President Joe Biden is moving to ban new offshore oil and gas drilling in most U.S. coastal waters, a last-minute effort to block possible action by the incoming Trump administration to expand offshore drilling. Biden, whose term expires in two weeks, said he is using authority under the federal Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to protect offshore areas along the East and West coasts, the eastern Gulf of Mexico and portions of Alaskas Northern Bering Sea from future oil and natural gas leasing. My decision reflects what coastal communities, businesses and beachgoers have known for a long time: that drilling off these coasts could cause irreversible damage to places we hold dear and is unnecessary to meet our nations energy needs, Biden said in a statement Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the climate crisis continues to threaten communities across the country and we are transitioning to a clean energy economy, now is the time to protect these coasts for our children and grandchildren, he said. Bidens orders would not affect large swaths of the Gulf of Mexico, where most U.S. offshore drilling occurs, but it would protect coastlines along California, Florida and other states from future drilling. Read: Nippon, US Steel file suit against Biden administration, union, and rival after $15B deal scuttled Bidens actions, which protect more than 625 million acres of federal waters, could be difficult for President-elect Donald Trump to unwind, since they would likely require an act of Congress to repeal. The 72-year-old law that Biden cited allows the president to withdraw portions of the outer continental shelf from mineral leasing, including leasing to drill for oil and gas, if the areas are deemed too sensitive to drill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump himself has a complicated history on offshore drilling. He signed a memorandum in 2020 directing the Interior secretary to prohibit drilling in the waters off both Florida coasts, and off the coasts of Georgia and South Carolina until 2032. Earlier in his term, Trump had initially moved to vastly expand offshore drilling, before retreating amid widespread opposition in Florida and other coastal states. Trump on Monday declared that, after hes inaugurated on Jan. 20, Bidens drilling ban will be changed on day one. I will unban it immediately Trump told conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt. I have the right to unban it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said the U.S. has oil and gas at a level that nobody else has and were gonna take advantage of it. Its really our greatest economic asset. Read: Biden is traveling to New Orleans following the French Quarter attack that killed 14 and injured 30 Trump has vowed to establish what he calls American energy dominance around the world as he seeks to boost U.S. oil and gas drilling and move away from Bidens focus on climate change. Environmental advocates hailed Bidens action, saying new oil and gas drilling must be sharply curtailed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming. 2024 was the hottest in recorded history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is an epic ocean victory! said Joseph Gordon, campaign director for the environmental group Oceana. Gordon thanked Biden for listening to the voices from coastal communities that oppose drilling and contributing to the bipartisan tradition of protecting our coasts. Bidens actions build on the legacy of Democratic and Republican presidents to protect coastal water from offshore drilling, Gordon said, adding that U.S. coastlines are home to tens of millions of Americans and support billions of dollars of economic activity that depend on a clean environment, abundant wildlife and thriving fisheries. In balancing multiple uses of Americas oceans, Biden said it was clear that the areas he is withdrawing from fossil fuel use show relatively minimal potential that does not justify possible environmental, public health and economic risks that would come from new leasing and drilling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read: As he prepares to leave office, Biden urges incoming Democratic lawmakers to reach across the aisle The National Ocean Industries Association, which represents offshore drillers, called Bidens decision a strategic error, driven not by science or voter mandate, but by political motives. This move directly undermines American energy consumers and jeopardizes the vast benefits tied to a thriving domestic energy sector, said Erik Milito, the groups president. Even if theres no immediate interest in drilling in some offshore areas, its crucial for the federal government to maintain the flexibility to adapt to unexpected global events such as Russias invasion of Ukraine, he said. Blanket bans only serve to transfer energy production and economic opportunities abroad, inadvertently bolstering countries like Russia at the expense of U.S. interests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden has proposed up to three oil and gas lease sales in the Gulf of Mexico, but none in Alaska, as he tries to navigate between energy companies seeking greater oil and gas production and environmental activists who want him to shut down new offshore drilling in the fight against climate change. A five-year drilling plan approved in 2023 includes proposed offshore sales in 2025, 2027 and 2029. The three lease sales are the minimum number the Democratic administration could legally offer if it wants to continue expanding offshore wind development. Read: Higher Social Security payments coming for millions of people from bill that Biden signed Under the terms of a 2022 climate law, the government must offer at least 60 million acres of offshore oil and gas leases in any one-year period before it can offer offshore wind leases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden, whose decision to approve the huge Willow oil project in Alaska drew strong condemnation from environmental groups, has previously limited offshore drilling in other areas of Alaska and the Arctic Ocean. Sandra Bundy, president of the Florida-based Business Alliance for Protecting the Atlantic Coast, said she was thrilled and thankful for Bidens actions, which she said will protect the Eastern seaboard for generations to come. Opening all federal waters to offshore exploration and drilling posed serious threats to coastal economies and ecosystems that are critical to millions along the coast, Bundy said. Cities and towns large and small oppose the industrialization of the Atlantic and are increasingly seeing stronger storms and flooding and face serious threats from rising sea levels. Those threats would increase in magnitude if offshore drilling was added to the mix. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. President Joe Biden decided to block the $14 billion takeover of US Steel by Japans Nippon Steel even though some top US officials did not believe there were sufficient national security grounds to kill the deal, a US official told CNN. The controversial decision to block the US Steel deal has won praise from union officials but faced fierce criticism inside and outside the administration. US Steel and Nippon Steel alleged in a Monday lawsuit that the process was driven by politics, not national security concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even though the US Steel takeover offer was from a company based in Japan a major US ally like all foreign acquisitions, it faced an intense review from the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), a powerful but secretive interagency panel. However, CFIUS failed to reach a decision about whether the deal posed a national security risk, leaving the decision to the president. Multiple prominent CFIUS members believed that any national security risk could be mitigated and that there were insufficient grounds to block the deal, including Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, the US official said. The presence of those officials in the camp against blocking the deal is notable because Yellen chairs CFIUS and Austin would have insight into whether the US defense industrial base would be threatened by this proposed foreign takeover. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, other CFIUS members were opposed on national security grounds, including US Trade Representative Katherine Tai, two sources familiar with the CFIUS process told CNN. Officials at the US Energy Department and Commerce Department also had concerns about the deal, one of the sources said. The Department of Defense referred CNN to the White House. None of the US agencies involved in CFIUSs decision would comment to CNN on the private deliberations. Biden specifically cited national security and the importance of a strong domestic steel industry in his statement explaining the decision on Friday. This acquisition would place one of Americas largest steel producers under foreign control and create risk for our national security and our critical supply chains, Biden said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement unknown content item - The Washington Post and Wall Street Journal previously reported that Biden rejected appeals of several top advisers in deciding to tank the deal. Bad decision, one senior administration official told CNNs Kayla Tausche. Doesnt actually protect union jobs and may kill the company. Another US official told CNN that there are significant frustrations among Biden officials about how the process played out and concerns about the signal it sends about foreign direct investment in the United States. After all, this foreign takeover was not from a rival nation such as China or Russia, it was from longtime US ally Japan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Never before has a President prohibited an acquisition by a company based in Japan, one of our closest allies, US Steel and Nippon Steel argued in the lawsuit. Jason Furman, a top economic official during the Obama administration, blasted the decision to use national security to kill the deal. President Biden claiming Japans investment in an American steel company is a threat to national security is a pathetic and craven cave to special interests that will make America less prosperous and safe, Furman, who is now a professor at Harvard University and a senior adviser at an Asia-focused consulting firm, wrote in an X post on Friday. Im sorry to see him betraying our allies while abusing the law. The White House defended the decision in a statement on Monday in response to the lawsuit filed by US Steel and Nippon Steel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A committee of national security and trade experts determined this acquisition would create risk for American national security, White House spokesperson Robyn Patterson said in a statement. President Biden will never hesitate to protect the security of this nation, its infrastructure, and the resilience of its supply chains. Michael Leiter, who leads the CFIUS and national security practices at law firm Skadden, told CNN in an email that the disagreement among US agencies shows how, like many national security issues, this wasnt an easy issue, and there were competing interests. The presence and sufficiency of national security risk is in the eye of the beholderand under CFIUS the only eye that matters is the Presidents, he said. Leiter does not believe the US Steel deal will ultimately hurt foreign investment into the United States, the worlds largest economy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For those of us who handle billions of dollars of transactions a year, he said, we know that this was an outlier. This case will neither have significant precedential value , nor will it so poison the CFIUS well. Opposition to the US Steel takeover was bipartisan, including multiple Rust Belt lawmakers from both sides of the aisle. Both Vice President Kamala Harris and President-elect Donald Trump opposed the deal during the presidential campaign, as did Vice President-elect JD Vance. Union officials praised Bidens decision to block the merger. We have no doubt that its the right move for our members and our national security, United Steelworkers International President David McCall said in a statement. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com The News Outgoing US President Joe Biden met with Venezuelan opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez in Washington, DC, on Monday. Gonzalez whom the US recognizes as the winner of Venezuelas contested 2024 election has vowed to return to Caracas after being forced into exile by incumbent President Nicolas Maduro, who claimed victory in the July poll. Gonzalezs DC visit caps a tour of several Latin American countries: He has sought to bolster support for his expected return to Venezuela ahead of Maduros inauguration on Friday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following the meeting, Biden said: The people of Venezuela deserve a peaceful transfer of power to the true winner of their presidential election, while Gonzalez described the talks as fruitful. SIGNALS Despite heightened tension in Venezuela, major upheaval is unlikely Sources: El Pais, Euronews, CNN, The Economist Gonzalezs US and Latin America tour is unlikely to hinder Maduro from being sworn in as president, El Pais noted, but tensions are rising: Maduro has mooted a $100,000 reward for information leading to Gonzalezs capture. Meanwhile, Gonzalez has urged Venezuelas army to recognize him as their commander-in-chief, CNN reported, a call the countrys defense minister rejected. Opposition figure Maria Corina Machado has encouraged Gonzalezs supporters to protest on inauguration day, prompting officials to warn any opposition would pay dearly. The ongoing crackdown on dissent indicates that Venezuela is about to become a full-blown dictatorship, a Western diplomat in Caracas told The Economist. Trump could shift US approach to Venezuela Sources: Foreign Policy, The Dialogue, Al Jazeera Incoming US President Donald Trumps approach to Maduro could rehash his first-term maximum pressure policy: Trump has appointed Marco Rubio a known Venezuela hawk as his secretary of state. A complicating factor is that Venezuela is a major source of immigrants to the US more than 5 million people left the country between 2019-2022 and Trump has vowed to dramatically cut those numbers. A senator close to the incoming US administration said it is open to working with Maduro to stem drug and migration flows. Maduro is leaving the door open for a more pragmatic approach from the Trump administration, an expert told Al Jazeera. President Joe Biden on Monday announced an executive action that will permanently ban future offshore oil and gas development in parts of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans in a way that could be especially difficult for the incoming Trump administration to undo. Bidens executive action will ban new oil and gas leasing across 625 million acres of US ocean. The ban will prevent oil companies from leasing waters for new drilling along the entire East Coast, the eastern Gulf of Mexico, the coasts of Washington, Oregon and California, and portions of Alaskas Northern Bering Sea. My decision reflects what coastal communities, businesses, and beachgoers have known for a long time: that drilling off these coasts could cause irreversible damage to places we hold dear and is unnecessary to meet our nations energy needs, Biden said in a statement. It is not worth the risks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The action, which CNN reported on Friday, invokes the 1953 Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, a law that gives presidents broad authority to withdraw federal waters from future oil and gas leasing and development. The law does not give presidents explicit authority to revoke the action and place federal waters back into development, meaning President-elect Donald Trump would have to get Congress to change it before he could reverse Bidens move. Nevertheless, Trump on Monday said in an interview he would try to undo the action. Look, its ridiculous. Ill unban it immediately, Trump said in a radio interview on The Hugh Hewitt Show. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Bidens presidency draws to a close, environmental and climate groups have advocated for him to withdraw areas off the Eastern Gulf of Mexico, as well as other parts of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans giving the areas permanent protections from future drilling. The move would guard against future oil spills and against adding more planet-warming pollution from fossil fuels to the atmosphere. President Bidens new protections add to this bipartisan history, including President Trumps previous withdrawals in the southeastern United States in 2020, said Oceana Campaign Director Joseph Gordon in a statement. Our treasured coastal communities are now safeguarded for future generations. Despite a friendly posture towards the oil and gas industry, Trump also moved to ban offshore drilling while president. After proposing a major expansion in offshore drilling early in his first term, Trump in 2020 extended a ban on future oil drilling in the Eastern Gulf and expanded it to include the Atlantic coasts of three states: Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. Still, Trumps incoming press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, lambasted the decision, writing in a post on X, This is a disgraceful decision designed to exact political revenge on the American people who gave President Trump a mandate to increase drilling and lower gas prices. Rest assured, Joe Biden will fail, and we will drill, baby, drill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The oil industry lashed out against the executive action, too. President Bidens decision to ban new offshore oil and natural gas development across approximately 625 million acres of US coastal and offshore waters is significant and catastrophic, Ron Neal, chairman of the Independent Petroleum Association of America Offshore Committee, said in a statement. It represents a major attack on the oil and natural gas industry. Neal said the ban would severely limit the industrys potential for future oil and gas exploration in new areas, hurting the industrys long-term ability to survive. But Biden noted in his statement that protecting coastlines from offshore drilling has bipartisan support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From California to Florida, Republican and Democratic Governors, Members of Congress, and coastal communities alike have worked and called for greater protection of our ocean and coastlines from harms that offshore oil and natural gas drilling can bring, Biden said. He argued that after the devastating 2010 Deepwater Horizon spill in the Gulf of Mexico, the ban he imposed will help protect similar ecological disasters from happening again. Every president this century has recognized that some areas of the ocean are just too risky or too sensitive to drill, Earthjustice vice president of litigation for lands, wildlife and oceans Drew Caputo said in a statement Friday. Bidens move was first reported by Bloomberg. Little economic impact Energy analysts told CNN the move wont make much of a difference in US oil production, which has set new records under Biden. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not particularly consequential for US exploration and production going forward, Tom Kloza, global head of energy analysis at the Oil Price Information Service, said on Friday. Kloza noted there are plenty of existing offshore rigs pumping oil in the Gulf of Mexico and added that offshore projects typically take 6-8 years to come online. I dont see it as having any real impact on US supply, exports, imports, Kloza said. Biden agreed, arguing in his statement that preserving the environment and the coastlines will help local economies flourish. We do not need to choose between protecting the environment and growing our economy, or between keeping our ocean healthy, our coastlines resilient, and the food they produce secure and keeping energy prices low, Biden said. Those are false choices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, the American Petroleum Institute blasted Bidens decision. American voters sent a clear message in support of domestic energy development, and yet the current administration is using its final days in office to cement a record of doing everything possible to restrict it, API CEO Mike Sommers said in a statement. We urge policymakers to use every tool at their disposal to reverse this politically motivated decision and restore a pro-American energy approach to federal leasing. In a separate announcement, the Biden administration is expected to declare two new national monuments in California in the coming week, a source familiar with the planning told CNN. Biden will establish the Chuckwalla National Monument in Southern California near Joshua Tree National Park and the Sattitla National Monument in Northern California, the source said. Native tribes have been actively pushing the administration to protect the land from energy development. Biden has so far conserved or expanded 10 national monuments as president. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Flags of the steel producer ArcelorMittal are waving in the wind. Patrick Pleul/dpa Steel producer ArcelorMittal South Africa, a unit of Luxembourg-based ArcelorMittal, is to wind down its long-steel business, impacting 3,500 jobs, the company announced on Monday. The decision follows sustained challenges, including weak economic growth, high logistics and energy costs, and an influx of low-cost steel imports, particularly from China, the company said in a statement. ArcelorMittal South Africa plans to now transition the long-steel business into care and maintenance. Steel production is expected to cease by late January, with the wind-down of the remaining production processes completed in the first quarter of 2025, according to the statement. The company said it envisages the move will impact around 3,500 direct and indirect jobs, with the broader economic impact on induced jobs expected to be significantly higher, especially in South Africa's Newcastle region. ArcelorMittal noted that it is actively working to realign its working capital facility, worth 1 billion rand ($54 million), which it secured in 2024, to support this transition. Looking ahead to the full year 2024, the company expects a loss within a range of 5.48 rand to 6.21 rand per share, compared to the previous year's loss of 3.52 rand per share. Headline income per share is projected to lose between 4.06 rand and 4.41 rand per share, from the prior year's loss of 1.70 rand per share. Annual revenue is also anticipated to decline by over 5% from last year, as a result of weaker net realized prices, reduced asset utilization and the challenges in the long-steel business. Former U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger, D-Prince William. (Ned Oliver/Virginia Mercury) Over the weekend President Joe Biden signed the Social Security Fairness Act into law, legislation co-sponsored by former U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger, a Virginia Democrat. The act aims to boost retirement benefits for some retirees that draw public pensions, such as former police officers and firefighters. The law would achieve this by eliminating two, decades-old provisions that reduce benefits for people who also receive a pension. The two provisions had been made to limit federal benefits to higher-earning workers with pensions, but over time, a growing number of employees, such as postal workers, began to see their payments capped, Reuters reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Louisiana Republican U.S. Rep. Garret Graves, who co-sponsored the bill with Spanberger, argued on the House floor that it could benefit various public employees, not people who are overpaid. They are not people who are underworked. Spanberger, who has co-sponsored the bill for much of her congressional tenure, said in a statement that every Virginian who paid into Social Security should be able to count on their full earned benefits to support them in retirement. This firm belief and the stories of Virginians long impacted by this injustice strengthened my resolve to bring Republicans and Democrats together on Capitol Hill, force a long-overdue vote on the U.S. House floor, and finally get this done. The bill had the backing of the International Association of Fire Fighters. Its president, Edward Kelly, noted how firefighters have struggled in retirement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The IAFF is proud to have partnered with Rep. Spanberger in leading the fight to repeal these penalties and return fire fighters dignified retirements, he said. We are excited to see our bill signed into law and finally end this chapter of history. The outgoing presidents signature on the legislation she pushed for comes just days after Spanberger left Congress and is seeking to become Virginias next governor. Shes the only formally-declared Democratic candidate for the time being (as U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott, D-Newport News, has yet to confirm rumors he might seek the office). Meanwhile, Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears stands to be the Republican nominee. Former Republican congressman Denver Riggleman, who has previously endorsed Spanberger, has not yet ruled out jumping into the race as an independent candidate. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden will head to New Orleans on Monday, the site of a New Year's Day terror attack that killed 14 people and wounded dozens more. By Jeff Mason NEW ORLEANS (Reuters) - U.S. President Joe Biden on Monday visited the scene of the New Year's Day attack in New Orleans that left 14 people dead and dozens of others injured when a U.S. Army veteran rammed a truck into a crowd of revelers. Biden and his wife, Jill, made a stop at Bourbon Street to pay respects to those who died there before making their way to a church for a memorial service. The first lady laid a bouquet of flowers in front of a makeshift memorial. The president stood with his wife and crossed himself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the Texas man who drove the truck and who was killed in a shootout with police, was an Army veteran struggling to get past a recent divorce but who showed no signs of anger in the weeks before the attack, according to his half-brother. The FBI said the 42-year-old, who had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State extremist group, acted on his own. Biden, a Democrat who leaves office on Jan. 20, met with families, survivors and local law enforcement impacted by the attack and then spoke at a service at the Cathedral-Basilica of St. Louis, King of France. "I know events like this are hard, the shock and pain is still so very raw... It's not the same. We know what it's like to lose a piece of our soul," Biden told those in attendance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden, like other presidents before him, has made multiple trips during his time in office to comfort communities after natural disasters or acts of violence. The president's first wife and infant daughter died in a car crash, and one of his adult sons died of cancer. "If theres one thing we know, New Orleans defines strength and resilience," he said. (Reporting by Jeff Mason; additional reporting by Costas Pitas; Editing by Don Durfee, Gerry Doyle, Bill Berkrot and Michael Perry) President Joe Biden is taking action to protect 625 million acres of offshore areas from future oil and gas drilling, the White House announced Monday, in a move which could frustrate plans of the incoming Donald Trump administration. Biden is invoking the 1953 Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA) to prevent new fossil fuel developments off the East and West coasts of the U.S. as well as in the Eastern Gulf of Mexico and Alaskas North Bering Sea. The law gives presidents the power to permanently withdraw parts of the Outer Continental Shelf from future oil and gas leasingbut doesnt include a provision for how another president could revoke such an order. Trump would therefore likely have to get Congress to change the law before he could undo Bidens action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bidens decision, which could pose problems for Trumps plans to quickly ramp up fossil fuel production when he returns to office this month, was condemned by Trumps incoming press secretary. This is a disgraceful decision designed to exact political revenge on the American people who gave President Trump a mandate to increase drilling and lower gas prices, Karoline Leavitt wrote in a post on X. Rest assured, Joe Biden will fail, and we will drill, baby, drill. This is a disgraceful decision designed to exact political revenge on the American people who gave President Trump a mandate to increase drilling and lower gas prices. Rest assured, Joe Biden will fail, and we will drill, baby, drill. https://t.co/NvWx7oA2vU Karoline Leavitt (@karolineleavitt) January 6, 2025 In a statement, President Biden said drilling in the areas hes seeking to protect could cause irreversible damage to places we hold dear and is unnecessary to meet our nations energy needs. It is not worth the risks, Biden said. As the climate crisis continues to threaten communities across the country and we are transitioning to a clean energy economy, now is the time to protect these coasts for our children and grandchildren. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mike Sommers, the president of oil and gas industry group American Petroleum Institute, claimed in a statement that the Biden Administration decision is politically motivated. The potential move only covers offshore activity / Jason Redmond/Reuters Congress and the incoming administration should fully leverage the nations vast offshore resources as a critical source of affordable energy, government revenue and stability around the world, Sommers said. We urge policymakers to use every tool at their disposal to reverse this politically motivated decision and restore a pro-American energy approach to federal leasing. Biden highlighted in his announcement the bipartisan support that has been given to protecting certain areas from drilling. From California to Florida, Republican and Democratic Governors, Members of Congress, and coastal communities alike have worked and called for greater protection of our ocean and coastlines from harms that offshore oil and natural gas drilling can bring, Biden said. NEW ORLEANS (NewsNation) President Joe Biden will visit New Orleans on Monday to grieve with the families and community members impacted by the tragic attack. After signing the Social Security Fairness Act, Biden was asked Sunday by journalists what his message would be to the families he would meet. He responded, Ive been there. Theres nothing you can really say to somebody thats just had such a tragic loss, my message is going to be personal if I get to get them alone. First Lady Jill Biden will accompany the president, according to the White House. Landry seeks Presidential Disaster Declaration Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry will speak with Biden on Monday to request the approval of a Presidential Disaster Declaration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Landry is requesting direct federal assistance, to support protective actions and provide care for survivors in Orleans Parish as the state responds to the attack. Hes also seeking individual assistance, limited to crisis counseling for those impacted. Additionally, Landry is urging the Senate, specifically the Democratic members of the Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee, to immediately confirm Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security. This is no time to play around. Which is why I am also calling on Senate Democrats on the Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee to allow Kristi Noem to get to work on Day 1 as our Secretary of Homeland Security. There should be no gap in leadership. In the wake of the Bourbon Street and Las Vegas attacks, our nations security depends on her quick confirmation, Landry said in a statement. All victims have been IDd Investigation continues into what authorities are calling a New Years Day act of terrorism in New Orleans bustling Canal and Bourbon Streets in which a car drove into a crowd, killing 14 people and injuring at least 35 more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said Thursday that all victims have been identified, and their families have been notified by New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell. New Orleans attack suspect Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, has been identified as the man who was shot and killed by police after the deadly New Years Day attack. FBI Special Agent in Charge Lyonel Myrthil said Sunday that Jabbar traveled to New Orleans in late October and in November. During his first trip, Jabar stayed at a rental home for at least two days beginning on Oct. 30, Myrthil said. The second trip took place on Nov. 10 but FBI officials are still piecing together details of that trip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New Orleans Saints, NFL to donate $1 million to victims of truck attack The FBI said Jabbar was also wearing Meta glasses during the New Years Day attack but did not turn on the glasses livestreaming capability. Jabbar also traveled to Cairo, Egypt, from June 22 to July 3 of 2023, and, a few days later, flew to Ontario, Canada on July 10, returning to the U.S. on July 13. Its unclear if those trips are connected to the attack in New Orleans. Officials still say Jabbar, a U.S. citizen from Houston, acted alone when he killed 14 people early on New Years Day. The Hill and The Associated Press contributed to this report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. Reuters has reported that Joe Biden's administration plans to impose additional sanctions on Russia, targeting its oil revenues through actions against tankers carrying Russian oil. Source: European Pravda, citing Reuters Details: Reuters sources say the Biden administration plans to impose sanctions on tankers carrying Russian oil sold above the Western price of US$60 per barrel. Russia has used a so-called shadow fleet of older ships to circumvent the restrictions. Shipping experts say many of these vessels are less safe and prone to oil spills. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the US imposed sanctions on dozens of such ships from a fleet estimated to number in the hundreds to reduce its ability to finance the invasion. One source said that it was going to be a big package. Another source said that the sanctions would likely include measures against individuals involved in networks that trade oil at prices above the cap. President Joe Biden's administration is trying to strengthen support for Ukraine before President-elect Donald Trump takes office on 20 January, given the Republican leader's frequent complaints about the cost of US support for Ukraine. It remains unclear what Trump's approach to sanctions against Russia will be. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reuters reported last month that US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told Reuters that the US was considering further sanctions on tankers and did not rule out sanctions on Chinese banks as it seeks to reduce Russia's oil revenues and limit its access to foreign supplies to support the war in Ukraine. Background: Joe Biden's administration is discussing the possibility of imposing new "serious sanctions" against the Russian energy sector before the end of his term. Before that, Bloomberg reported that the Group of Seven countries were discussing a possible reduction in the so-called price ceiling for Russian oil transported by sea to limit Russia's oil revenues. On 16 December, the EU adopted the 15th package of sanctions against Russia, designed to counteract sanctions circumvention by targeting Russia's "shadow fleet" and weakening the Russian defence industrial base. Support UP or become our patron! KURTISTOWN, Hawaii (KHON2) Big Island police are asking for the publics assistance in finding 31-year-old Jannefer Kaspar, a Kurtistown woman who was last seen on Dec. 26. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Kaspar was last seen walking in the Orchidland subdivision in Kurtistown back in December, but was not reported missing until recently. Get lifeguard certified at this Hilo pool Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities say she has a light complexion, is five feet and five inches tall, about 120 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. She is known to frequent the Hilo and Puna areas. Kaspar may need medical assistance and is considered an endangered missing person. Police ask anyone with information on Kaspars whereabouts to call the Hawaii Police Departments non-emergency line at (808) 935-3311. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 6This week's edition of Outlook is like a trip down memory lane. Several former Journal and longtime Journal reporters and editors had a role in putting together this week's edition. Ellen Marks, as she does every other week, wrote the one-on-one profile. It's a regular feature in Outlook. We try to profile a business leader or rising star in the business community in an interview that includes an introduction and a question-and-answer report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Marks was a longtime editor at the Journal. She was the deputy city editor when I was hired as a police reporter in April 2010. She ripped up many of my stories and made them better and easier to understand. This week, she profiled Bill Stimmel, the entrepreneurial director at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center's new Entrepreneurial Complex. It's the first phase of a large project that opened in August, and additional phases are expected to open by the end of 2026. The idea is that the complex will help aspiring agricultural and food entrepreneurs get their businesses off the ground with a commercial kitchen, cold storage and classrooms to teach relevant skills. Outlook readers will also notice that Kevin Robinson-Avila, an experienced Journal business reporter, penned a guest column this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A former Central American foreign correspondent, Robinson-Avila wrote in response to a Journal story about Mexican-style tamales and local women who have made the holiday dish a business around the holiday season. Robinson-Avila described the nuances of the dish we know locally compared to different takes on the tamale in Nicaragua and other Central American countries. It's a welcomed sight to see Robinson-Avila's byline in Outlook again. And hopefully, the copy in the week's edition is clean. Senior editor Katy Barnitz, who worked for years at the Journal as a reporter and editor, returned to the Journal this week after working elsewhere for much of last year. Barnitz gave me a hand and looked over the copy to help keep it clean. It's great to have a reunion of sorts in our first Outlook of the year. By James Mackenzie and Nidal al-Mughrabi JERUSALEM/CAIRO (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called on Monday for a final push for a Gaza ceasefire before President Joe Biden leaves office, after a Hamas official told Reuters the group had cleared a list of 34 hostages as first to go free under a truce. "We very much want to bring this over the finish line in the next two weeks, the time we have remaining," Blinken told a news conference in South Korea, when asked whether a ceasefire deal was close. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel has sent a team of mid-ranking officials to Qatar for talks brokered by Qatari and Egyptian mediators. Some Arabic media reports said David Barnea, the head of Mossad, who has been leading negotiations, was expected to join them. The Israeli prime minister's office did not comment. It remains unclear how close the two sides remain, with some signs of movement but little indication of a shift in some of the key demands that have so far blocked any truce for more than a year. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has said there would be "hell to pay" in the Middle East if hostages held by Hamas were not freed before his inauguration on Jan. 20, now viewed in the region as an unofficial deadline for a truce deal. According to Gaza health officials, nearly 46,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's assault on Gaza. The assault was launched after Hamas fighters stormed Israeli territory in October 2023, killing 1,200 people and capturing more than 250 hostages, by Israeli tallies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 100 hostages are still believed to be held in Gaza, and Hamas says it will not free them without an agreement that ends the war with Israeli withdrawal. Israel says it will not halt its assault until Hamas is dismantled as a military and governing power and all hostages go free. A Hamas official told Reuters the group had cleared a list submitted by Israel of 34 hostages who could be freed in the initial phase of a truce. The list provided by the official included female soldiers, plus elderly, female and minor-aged civilians. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said the list had been given by Israel to Qatari mediators as far back as July, and Israel had so far received no confirmation or comment from Hamas about whether the hostages on it were alive. For Michael Levy, whose brother Or was one of the 34 names on the list, there was little comfort. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The way I see this list is the way I saw all the recent rumours about an upcoming deal," he told Reuters. "For me, as long as my brother is not here and the hostages are not here in Israel, it's just a rumour." BABY DIES OF COLD Israeli forces, which have intensified their operations in recent weeks, continued bombardments across the enclave, killing at least 48 people and wounding 75 over the past 24 hours, according to the Gaza health ministry. Harsh winter weather continued to exact a toll on the hundreds of thousands displaced into makeshift shelters, with officials saying a 35-day-old baby had died of exposure, at least the eighth victim of the cold in the past two weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials from Al-Awda Hospital in Nuseirat in the central Gaza Strip said an Israeli airstrike at a school compound sheltering displaced families had wounded at least 40 people. While Israel's military says Hamas has largely been destroyed as an organised military force, its fighters continue to hold out in the rubble of Gaza, which has been largely reduced to wasteland by the months of bombardment. On Monday, two Israeli soldiers were severely wounded in northern Gaza, and three rockets were fired from Gaza, one of which hit a building in the nearby Israeli city of Sderot without casing casualties, Israeli police said. Separately, the World Food Programme said Israeli forces had opened fire on one of its convoys as the vehicles moved from central Gaza to Gaza City in the north. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the Israeli-occupied West Bank, a separate Palestinian territory where violence has also surged since the start of the Gaza war, gunmen killed three Israelis and wounded several others when they opened fire on a car and bus near the Israeli settlement of Kedumim. (Additional reporting by Hyonhee Shin in Seoul; Editing by Peter Graff) ArcelorMittal South Africa has announced the closure of its long steel products division, a move that is expected to affect approximately 3,500 jobs, both directly and indirectly. The decision, which has been under consideration since November 2023, comes after extensive consultations with the government and the state-owned freight company, following initial delays. The plant produces materials such as fencing, rail, rods and bars, which are essential in sectors like construction, mining and manufacturing. ArcelorMittal said that persistently high logistics and energy costs, along with inadequate government policy support, have made operations unsustainable in South Africa. The steel industry is experiencing its "most prolonged challenge" since the 2008 financial crisis, worsened by surging low-cost steel imports, further harming the business, the company noted. Steel production at the facility is set to halt by the end of January 2025, with the closure of remaining operations to be concluded in Q1 of the same year. The decision will impact all long steel plants including the Vereeniging Works, Newcastle Works, and rail and structures subsidiary AMRAS. However, Newcastle will maintain a reduced coke-making operation due to lower demand, the company said. ArcelorMittal is currently in discussions to realign the R1bn ($53.85m) working capital facility, which was secured in 2024, to assist with the transition. ArcelorMittal South Africa CEO Kobus Verster said: As a company, we are disappointed that all our efforts over the last year have not translated into a sustainable solution. The issues tabled for resolution sought to level the playing field against international and local competitors. The issues raised outlined those factors that could have, and still can, firmly address the structural problems within the South African steel industry, especially for our Longs Business, but also within the company, the South African steel industry and value chain. "ArcelorMittal South Africa to shut down long steel production" was originally created and published by Mining Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. (Bloomberg) -- Secretary of State Antony Blinken lauded South Koreas response to its recent political turmoil as he reaffirmed US security ties with Seoul in the face of North Koreas threats. Most Read from Bloomberg What sets democracies apart from other systems is precisely how we respond to challenges, including internal challenges, Blinken said at a joint press briefing Monday with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-Yul in Seoul. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Biden administration had directly expressed to the government serious concerns about President Yoon Suk Yeols attempt to impose martial law in early December, but Blinken said he had tremendous confidence in the resilience of South Koreas democracy. He also condemned Pyongyangs latest missile launch detected around lunchtime, just after his meeting with Acting President Choi Sang-mok. The secretary additionally raised concerns about Russias space technology cooperation with North Korea. Blinkens visit to South Korea came amid questions over Seouls ability to manage impeachments and probes of its president and prime minister without further political or economic instability that leaves it more vulnerable on the global stage. Yoon continues to hold out at his residence in defiance of repeated demands to appear for questioning. Attempts by corruption investigators to arrest him Friday failed as the presidents security team fended off attempts to gain access. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the investigators have asked the police for their assistance in making the arrest, the police appear reluctant to detain security personnel if they are not taking the lead in the probe. The ongoing standoff was unavoidable throughout the visit, with protests audible from the secretarys hotel. For now, the nation has avoided significant violence and its democratic institutions have held strong, after the parliament overturned Yoons decree and launched impeachment proceedings and the investigations. The response that were seeing, and that we expect to continue to see, is one that is peaceful and fully consistent and in accordance with the Constitution and the rule of law, Blinken said. What weve seen in our own as well as in other democracies that face challenges, has been a response thats open, thats transparent. And time and again, what weve seen is our countries emerge stronger from those challenges, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blinken earlier expressed confidence in South Koreas acting leader as the two nations reaffirmed their security alliance. The Secretary reaffirmed the United States confidence in the enduring strength of the US-ROK Alliance, the linchpin of peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific, State Department Spokesman Matthew Miller said. He underscored the United States ironclad commitment to the defense of the ROK. That comment came shortly before the latest reminder of the security threat posed by Pyongyang. North Korea launched what appeared to be an intermediate-range ballistic missile toward its eastern waters, according to South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff. The missile was fired from near Pyongyang around noon local time and flew around 1,100 kilometers (684 miles) before splashing down in waters, the military added. We condemn the DPRKs missile launch just today yet another violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions, Blinken said, using the acronym for North Koreas official name. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The missile launch was the first of the year and comes just two weeks before President-elect Donald Trump takes office. At least 40 missile firings in 2024 helped further stoke tensions between the two neighbors. Deepening defense and technology ties between Pyongyang and Moscow have amplified concerns in both Seoul and Washington. Now we have reason to believe that Moscow intends to share advanced space and satellite technology with Pyongyang, and that Putin may be close to reversing a decades-long policy by Russia and accepting DPRKs nuclear weapons program, he said. He added that North Korea and China were the biggest enablers for Russias war in Ukraine. Blinken met with South Korean Acting President Choi Sang-mok in Seoul as part of a trip that spans from Asia to Europe as his stint as secretary of state winds to a close. Finance Minister Choi is South Koreas second acting leader since President Yoon was impeached last month for his short-lived martial law declaration. The Constitutional Court is deliberating whether to finalize the impeachment motion against Yoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The political turmoil in Seoul coincides with North Koreas growing military cooperation with Russia, with Kim Jong Un sending troops to join the war in Ukraine. --With assistance from Soo-Hyang Choi. (Adds more details on North Korean missile and Yoon arrest efforts) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. SALINA, Kan. (KSNW) Stranded drivers and abandoned vehicles litter Kansas highways after a blizzard moved across the state on Sunday. Often, its us just driving around, freelancing, seeing where other troopers are at and trying not to cross those same paths, Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Ben Gardner said. Troopers battled frigid conditions, harsh wind, and nearly a foot of snow. You know, even with the snow coming down and defrosters going, its extremely hot inside. My windshield wipers are still getting covered with ice. Its building up, and Im having a hard time just keeping my windshield clear, Gardner said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But state troopers keep their eye on the mission, looking for stranded drivers. Blizzard strands travelers in Kansas Theres a Mazda eastbound in the median side, Gardner said. Im assuming somebodys checked on that. Its got its hazards on. And waiting for Mother Nature and the storm to let up. Just be realistic; let her own it. Shes won this moment, and were going to move to a better moment when well recover from it. So staying home is still very important, Gardner said. The Kansas Department of Transportation advises all motorists to avoid non-emergency travel, especially in northeast and northcentral Kansas, as dangerous blizzard conditions persist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Video shows power of Kansas blizzard All state highways in Marshall, Nemaha, Brown, Doniphan, Riley, Pottawatomie, Jackson, Atchison, Wabaunsee, Shawnee, Jefferson, Leavenworth, Wyandotte, Douglas, Johnson, Lyon, Osage, Jewell, Republic, Washington, Mitchell, Cloud, Clay, Lincoln, Ottawa, Ellsworth, Saline, Dickinson, Geary, Morris, McPherson, Marion, Chase, Reno, Harvey, and Butler counties are closed, including Interstate 70. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV. SOUTHERN TIER, N.Y. (WETM) The American Red Cross will host another series of blood drives in the Southern Tier this January in an effort to keep the blood supply strong in the new year. January is National Blood Donor Month, but its also the time of year that can be challenging for collecting blood donations. Severe winter weather can lead to blood drive cancellations, and cold and flu season can prevent people from donating as they rest and recover from sickness. The Red Cross is encouraging those who are feeling well this time of year to lend a helping hand by making and keeping donation appointments to keep the blood supply steady throughout the winter. You can schedule an appointment to donate by visiting redcrossblood.org, calling 1-800-REDCROSS or downloading the Blood Donor app. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New Years resolution workshop coming up in Bath To say thank you to those who choose to donate during National Blood Donor Month, anyone who donates blood from Jan. 1 through Jan. 26 will automatically be entered to win a Super Bowl LIX giveaway. The giveaway includes a trip with access to day-of pre-game activities in the stadium, tickets to the official Super Bowl Experience, round-trip airfare, a three-night hotel stay and a $1,000 gift card. This trip will take place from Friday, Feb. 7, through Monday, Feb. 10. A list of blood drives coming up this January can be found below: Chemung County Elmira St. Josephs Hospital Jan. 17 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. 555 East Market Street First Presbyterian Church Jan. 17 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Jan. 23 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. 1054 West Clinton Street Elmira Correctional Facility Jan. 22 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 1879 Davis Street Horseheads Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Horseheads Elks Lodge 2297 Jan. 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 9 Prospect Hill Road American Legion Post 442 Jan. 22 from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. 71 Old Ithaca Road Millport Pine Valley Baptist Church Jan. 9 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. 4872 Pinecrest Road Schuyler County Watkins Glen Watkins Glen Community Center Jan. 20 from noon to 4:30 p.m. 155 South Clute Park Drive Steuben County Addison Addison Central School Jan. 14 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 1 Colwell Street Campbell Campbell-Savona High School Jan. 13 from noon to 6 p.m. 8455 County Route 125 Canisteo American Legion Post 846 Jan. 20 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. 61 West Main Street Corning VFW Post 524 Jan. 7 from noon to 5 p.m. 281 Baker Street Southeast Steuben County Library Jan. 14 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 300 Nasser Civic Center Plaza #101 Emanuel Lutheran Church Jan. 20 from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 149 West William Street Hammondsport Hammondsport Fire Department Jan. 7 from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. 8521 State Route 54 Hornell UR Medicine St. James Hospital Jan. 21 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. 7329 Seneca Road North Painted Post United Church of Painted Post Jan. 15 from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 201 North Hamilton Street Victory Highway Wesleyan Church Jan. 16 from 11:30 a.m. to to 4:30 p.m. 150 Victory Highway Prattsburgh Prattsburgh Central School Jan. 15 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. 1 Academy Street Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Blundering civil servants mistakenly sent more than half a billion pounds to deceased people in just five years, official figures reveal. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has overpaid 512m in state pension and pension credit since 2019-20, with a record 159m sent last year alone. Less than half has since been recovered as there is no legal obligation for families to return the money. The 257m lost could have covered winter fuel payments for up to 1.3 million pensioners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pension credit is paid in advance to people on the old state pension, but in arrears to those on the new system. The state pension itself is always paid in arrears. However, a Parliamentary Question asked by Reform MP Rupert Lowe last month revealed that 512m was paid to deceased people over the past five years and just 255m has been returned. None of the money can be legally recovered and although the DWP usually writes to grieving families requesting it, any payments made are optional. Speaking to the Telegraph, Mr Lowe called for an overhaul of the system. He said: This is a shocking waste that underlines the contempt with which the Government treats taxpayers money. Why is it tolerated? Why is the return of this money not enforceable? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is wide open to fraud and abuse. It needs to be clamped down on as part of a wider Government effort to slash down on misspending. We must keep pushing for transparent data to uncover the true extent of the waste. The figures show that 458m was overpaid in state pension and just 233m was recovered, leaving 225m outstanding. Another 54m was wrongly paid in pension credit and only 22m was recouped, with 32m lost. Responding to Mr Lowes parliamentary question, DWPs parliamentary under-secretary Andrew Western said: Direct Payments made into an account after the death of a customer represent only around 0.1pc of total annual expenditure on pensions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although these are treated as non-recoverable and are not enforceable by law, we can request the money back as a voluntary payment. So far, we have recovered around half of the overpayments, to avoid this becoming a long-term cost to the taxpayer. Deaths must be reported within five days of the person passing away or a body being discovered, or eight days in Scotland. However, the persons final state pension payment still often includes payments for days after they died. Former pensions minister Steve Webb, now of LCP, said: With pensions routinely paid four-weekly in arrears, it is common that part of any final payment will cover a period after the person has died, even if the family contact DWP promptly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With everything else that the family is dealing with, letters from DWP trying to recover overpayments are unwelcome and should only be sent out if there is a legal basis for them. The DWP declined to comment. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The body of a missing Texas man was found in the Mt. Whitney area, authorities announced Sunday. The Inyo County Sheriff's Office said rescuers discovered Taylor Rodriguez of San Antonio deceased Saturday afternoon at an elevation of 12,000 feet near North Fork Lone Pine Creek Trail. Read more: Orange County firefighter dies of cardiac arrest amid early morning fire The Sheriff's Office previously said the 29-year-old went to climb Mt. Whitney on Monday despite poor weather. Authorities had sought the public's help in locating him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement Sunday, sheriff's officials said they had no further details regarding Rodriguez's death and extended condolences to his "family and friends during this difficult time." 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. BALDWIN COUNTY, Ala. (WKRG) The Daphne teenager charged in the homicide of 20-year-old Jatavious French on New Years Day in Bay Minette was in court this morning for a bond hearing. Fairhope road to be closed through this evening what to know Bond was set for 18-year-old Kendrick Johnson at $200,000. He is accused of firing the fatal shot that killed French on Pecan Street last week. Prosecutors say at least 25 shots were fired during a fight between French, Johnson and a second unnamed suspect. The gunfire struck several houses on Pecan Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Summerdale couple talks about brush with disaster, saved from storm If he is released on bond, Johnson will be under house arrest with an ankle monitor and cannot possess or be around any guns. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. U.S. Customs and Border Protection said agents recovered a missing child last week and apprehended a driver wanted for their alleged abduction. CBP said Border Patrol agents assigned to the Campo Station, east of San Diego, stopped a suspicious SUV traveling west on Interstate 8 near Buckman Springs Road, north of Boulder Oaks, at around 9 a.m. Wednesday. The SUV was driven by a 36-year-old woman, and an adult woman and a 6-year-old child were in the vehicle with her. Agents confirmed the identities of the SUVs occupants, and learned there was an active warrant against the driver. The warrant was issued by the Fort Bend County Sheriffs Office in Texas for interference with child custody, involving the 6-year-old passenger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After transporting the driver and child to a local Border Patrol station, agents contacted the U.S. Marshals Service, which later took custody of the driver. The child, meanwhile, was placed in the custody of Child Protective Services until she could be reunited with her family. This is yet another example of how agents vigilance serves our communities and nation, San Diego Sector Chief Patrol Agent Patricia McGurk-Daniel said in a statement. In this case, as they often do, agents went beyond their traditional border security duties to reunite a missing child with their family. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. One person was taken into custody Monday morning following an hourslong SWAT standoff at a home in Boston, authorities said. The standoff unfolded at a home on Hopewell Road off Osceola Street in the citys Hyde Park neighborhood, according to the Boston Police Department. Police said officers responded to the area around 3:34 a.m. for a report of a barricaded suspect. The suspect, whose name hasnt been released, fired a gun during the standoff but not an officer, according to police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an update shared just before 9:30 a.m., police said the suspect surrendered to officers after hours of negotiating. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were no reported injuries during the standoff. It wasnt immediately clear what charges the suspect will face. Detectives are working to obtain a search warrant for the home. Boston police urged the public to avoid the area during the standoff. An investigation is ongoing. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW A young boy in Zimbabwe was rescued from a lion-infested national park after going missing for five days. Tinotenda Pudu, 7, went missing from his village in the northwest of the country on December 27. He was eventually found in the Matusadona National Park after a rescue mission involving park rangers, police and the local community, according to a spokesperson from Zimbabwe Parks, the countrys parks and wildlife management authority. The search for the little boy was impeded by heavy rainfall in the northern region, which made it difficult for rangers to spot his footprints. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On December 30, footprints were discovered in an area of the park and Tinotenda was found in the early hours of the next day. Mutsa Murombedzi, member of parliament for the Mashonaland West region, which includes the national park, described the rescue as a true miracle in a post on X. She said the child had wandered away, lost direction, and unknowingly headed into the perilous Matusadonha Game Park. According to the MP, Tinotenda at one point heard the park rangers vehicle and tried to run toward the noise but was late to reach them. Fortunately, the rangers came back to the area and saw fresh little human footprints, which led them to the boy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This was probably his last chance of being rescued after 5 days in the wilderness, Murombedzi wrote. The national park once had the highest density of lions in Africa, according to the non-profit African Parks, and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, zebras, hippos, lions and buffalo. Tinotenda is thought to have walked through 49 kilometers (around 30 miles) of lion-infested terrain during his five-day ordeal, surviving on wild fruit and ground water. It is estimated that he walked through the harsh terrain of the lion infested Matusadonha National Park for 49 kilometers from his village to the point where he was found, Zimbabwe Parks said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During this period, he survived on wild fruits and would dig a small hole along the dry riverbank to access underground water to drink, a technique that is well known in drought prone areas. Tinotenda was taken to a local clinic for preliminary examinations following the rescue and was later moved to a hospital for further medical evaluation. According to an update posted by the MP, the young boy has rested and is in stable condition. He is set to be assessed by a mental health team to ensure he has not suffered any lasting trauma as a result of his ordeal, she added. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Asante Gold Corporation VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Asante Gold Corporation (CSE:ASE | GSE:ASG | FRANKFURT:1A9 | U.S.OTC:ASGOF) (Asante or the Company) announces the appointment of Alireza Abbassi Monjezi to the Companys board of directors and the resignation of Mohammad Alothman as a director of the Company, all with immediate effect. Dr. Alireza Abbassi Monjezi is a UK national. He obtained his PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Surrey (UK) and commenced his career as an academic researcher with positions at Queen Mary University of London and the University of Edinburgh. He has multiple patents and publications in highly ranked international journals under his name. In 2023, Dr Ali was listed by the UK Royal Academy of Engineering as one of the UK's 274 engineering icons of all time. In 2019, his start-up was awarded as the top enterprise emerging from the University of Edinburgh, a university that is consistently ranked within the top 30 universities worldwide. He is a director and board member of Waterwhelm, a company that won the Scottish Edge Higg's Award as the top engineering/technology start-up in Scotland in 2021. Malik Easah, Executive Chairman of Asante stated, We are pleased to announce the appointment of Alireza as Fujairah Holdings LLCs nominee. His experience in chemical engineering and water treatment as well as entrepreneurial talent and business acumen is welcomed by the Board. About Asante Gold Corporation Asante is a gold exploration, development and operating company with a high-quality portfolio of projects and mines in Ghana. Asante is currently operating the Bibiani and Chirano Gold Mines and continues with detailed technical studies at its Kubi Gold Project. All mines and exploration projects are located on the prolific Bibiani and Ashanti Gold Belts. Asante has an experienced and skilled team of mine finders, builders and operators, with extensive experience in Ghana. The Company is listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange, the Ghana Stock Exchange and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. Asante is also exploring its Keyhole, Fahiakoba and Betenase projects for new discoveries, all adjoining or along strike of major gold mines near the centre of Ghanas Golden Triangle. Additional information is available on the Companys website at www.asantegold.com. About the Bibiani Gold Mine Bibiani is an operating open pit gold mine situated in the Western North Region of Ghana, with previous gold production of more than 4.5 million ounces. It is fully permitted with available mining and processing infrastructure on-site consisting of a refurbished 3 million tonne per annum process plant and existing mining infrastructure. Asante commenced mining at Bibiani in late February 2022 with the first gold pour announced on July 7, 2022. Commercial production was announced November 10, 2022. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has ordered the state corrections department to fire 14 workers after the fatal beating of an inmate at the Marcy Correctional Facility. State Attorney General Letitia James said her office is also investigating the death of Robert Brooks, who had been serving a 12-year prison sentence for first-degree assault since 2017. Officials did not release the names of the employees or describe the circumstances of the attack. The post Brickbat: Overcorrection appeared first on Reason.com. MIDTOWN, Manhattan (PIX11) Commuters driving into Manhattan this week are bracing for the impact of congestion pricing. Drivers are now charged a $9 toll during peak hours to enter Manhattan at and below 60th Street. More Congestion Pricing News There are several free routes you can take if youre passing through Manhattan, but if you exit onto local roads at or below 60th Street, you will still be charged the toll. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here are those routes: Brooklyn Bridge Brooklyn-bound cars can take the southbound FDR Drive to the Brooklyn Bridge without being charged. Drivers heading to Manhattan from the Brooklyn Bridge can take the northbound FDR Drive for free. If youre driving from the Brooklyn Bridge to Manhattan and head for the southbound lanes of the FDR Drive, you will hit the street grid and get tolled. Take these tunnels to save money on congestion pricing tolls Queensboro Bridge Drivers heading from Queens to the Upper East Side can take the upper level of the Queensboro Bridge since it exits onto 62nd Street, which is right before the congestion pricing zone. If you continue to go south after 62nd Street, or take the lower level of the bridge into Manhattan, you will be charged. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trips made entirely on the FDR Drive, West Side Highway and the Hugh L. Carey Tunnel connections to West Street are excluded from the congestion pricing toll. 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 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Education policy is riven by ideological debates, both in the UK and globally. Phonics versus whole language methods in the teaching of reading; a knowledge-rich curriculum versus the teaching of problem-solving and critical thinking skills; explicit teaching versus learning through inquiry or projects; a warm-strict behaviour policy versus restorative justice. In short, evidence-based methods versus a progressivist or child-centred approach. On all these divides, I am a firm believer in the former rather than the latter since its what the evidence from cognitive science says works. It is largely the approach taken by the most successful education systems in the world and it is what informed the extensive education reforms introduced by Conservative ministers from 2010. Our approach was based on the belief that giving teachers and heads professional autonomy combined with strong accountability was the best way to drive up academic standards. We wanted to free schools from control by education chiefs in local authorities, many of whom were wedded to failed progressivist thinking, and so we accelerated the Blair governments academies programme (which itself was built on reforms introduced under Margaret Thatcher). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today 80 per cent of secondary schools and 40 per cent of primary schools are academies, with freedoms over the curriculum, teaching methods, who to employ and how much to pay their staff. In government we challenged education fads that had no evidence base in cognitive science and which were failing children. We introduced a new knowledge-rich curriculum and put phonics at the heart of the teaching of reading. We created a framework in which autonomous academies could innovate, coming up with approaches which would never have been dreamt up in Whitehall, let alone city or county halls across the country. As a consequence, England is now fourth in the world in reading and we have risen from 27th to 11th in maths, as measured by international surveys and tests carried out by the OECD and the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement. This week, the House of Commons will debate the Governments flagship Childrens Wellbeing and Schools Bill, which perversely will reverse some of the most important elements of those reforms. Labours Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, has clearly been hanging out with the wrong crowd. Her Bill sides firmly with the progressivist approach promoted for years by teaching unions and many university education faculties. It chips away at academies autonomy by requiring them to teach the new National Curriculum which will emerge from the review Labour set up within weeks of taking office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It will require academies to pay teachers in accordance with the pay review process. For many teachers in academies who are paid above those rates this could mean less pay in the long run. The Bill restores powers to local authorities to enable them to force schools to expand even when this would damage the ethos of the school. Paradoxically, the Bill also reintroduces the power to prohibit good schools from expanding if the local authority believes it presents a competitive challenge to weaker schools in the area. The Bill also enables local authorities to establish their own schools once again. Our policy required any new school to be a free school essentially a new academy run by a multi-academy trust rather than the local authority. There are now 650 free schools, and they dominate the top of the school league tables. Schools such as Michaela in Brent (which Bridget Phillipson recently ostentatiously failed to congratulate), Mercia in Sheffield and many others are bringing educational excellence and opportunity to some of Englands most deprived boroughs. Rather than build on this legacy, in the way that the Blair government built on previous Conservative reforms, Bridget Phillipson has been clear that there will be no new free schools created while shes in post. She is even threatening to halt the partnership between Eton College and the Star Academies trust for new sixth forms serving deprived communities in Dudley, Middlesbrough and Oldham. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the most damaging aspect of the Bill is its approach to underperforming schools. Today, 90 per cent of schools have been judged to be good or outstanding by Ofsted compared with 68 per cent in 2010. As well as weakening Ofsteds effectiveness by replacing clear one-word judgments with an opaque report card, the Bill scraps the requirement we introduced that schools judged as inadequate by Ofsted are converted into an academy with a strong partner school sponsor. This policy has turned around scores of schools that had been failing for decades. While such an approach remains an option, the Governments preferred strategy is for civil servants in regional offices of the Department for Education to be deployed, despite no evidence such an approach ever improved a single school. It is not just Conservatives who are dismayed by this Bill. Many teachers and educationalists on the Left, who were among the strongest supporters of the last governments approach while continuing to support Labour, feel let down too. Not to mention the many thousands of non-aligned teachers across the country who have embraced the freedoms that Labour now plans to take away. The Governments policy is an act of vandalism, driven by ideological hostility to academies and a failure to learn lessons from cognitive science or the best performing countries. It will fail and Im afraid the Secretary of State will be to blame. If she genuinely wants to improve our schools, and in particular help the most deprived, its not too late to reverse course. But to do so, she needs to start mixing with a different crowd. Nick Gibb is a former schools minister Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) The Town of Brighton was lit bright Sunday night to honor the young girl killed by her father in an apparent murder-suicide. Her grandmother on her mothers side was also killed by her father before he too shot and killed himself, according to police. Child, 11, among 3 dead after Brighton murder-suicide: police Brighton is a small community, if something or when something tragic happens to us we all gather to be together and to do something to show our support, said Susan Pearlberg, a neighbor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Friday afternoon on Hollyvale Drive, Anne Mancuso was found unresponsive by officers on the porch of a home. She was rushed to the hospital but later died. Police said she had been shot multiple times. Her grandmother, Mary Liccini, and her father, Lawrence Mancuso, were both found shot dead inside. According to police, Lawrence shot his daughter and her grandmother before turning the gun on himself. Lawrence served as Assistant Dean for Human Resources in the School of Industrial and Labor Relations for Cornell University, a Cornell spokesperson confirmed. He went on a leave of absence in October. We all wanted to start the new year off feeling hopeful and for the year to come. But something as tragic as this was just shocking and, just soul crushing and difficult to even comprehend that something like this could happen, especially in our small community, said Pearlberg. Its been overwhelming for the past couple of days in our neighborhood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Saturday night, the surrounding community gathered at the scene, placing flowers at a tree in their memory. The very next day, more folks took to the neighborhood, lighting and placing luminaries that now line the streets. Those behind the endeavor announced that the idea is to light the luminaries each night for 11 consecutive days. Anne, or Annie to those close to her, was just 11 years old when she was killed. She was a sixth grader within the Brighton Central School District. Some of our children who go to the middle school what their day is going to look like tomorrow, its going to be difficult, Pearlberg said on Sunday night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The district announced Saturday that counseling services would be available for students and staff on their first day back to school since the incident. Monday night from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. students, their families and staff are welcome to speak with someone, and if that doesnt work, folks can reach out to the school to set up a time that does. Its always really important when people are going through a difficult time to gather together to give each other support, to listen to each others pain, said Pearlberg. As for the rest of the community, neighbors told News 8 that they were willing to help however they could, taking their pain and turning it into something positive. Our support, our love, our care and concern are with you, said Pearlberg. Its incredibly overwhelming and I think the whole community just wants to wrap their arms around this family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A British fan of Breaking Bad has been accused of trafficking 15 million of fentanyl that caused the death of two US Navy submariners. Paul Nicholls is now being extradited to the US after his appeal to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) to prevent his removal was rejected. The 46-year-old self-published author is accused of smuggling the drug into the US via the dark web. It is alleged the product which is 50 times stronger than heroin was responsible for the death Brian Jarrell and Ty Bell, two US mariners, who died within days of each other and were thought to be his customers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement US police say the father of two ran a global fentanyl smuggling ring alongside 62-year-old Thomas Federuik between April 2017 and February 2018. Mr Nicholls, who is originally from Stoke-on-Trent but was living in Canada, has written a number of books, under the pseudonym, Nico Laeser, with themes including drug addiction. He has also painted a picture of Walter White the protagonist in the hit series Breaking Bad, who turns from chemistry teacher to mass-methamphetamine producer. Breaking Bad was a popular US TV series that saw a chemistry teacher become a mass-methamphetamine producer - Television Stills Mr Nicholls is facing charges of conspiracy to import and distribute controlled substances, and money laundering. He denies the charges, but after his appeal to the ECHR was rejected, the National Crime Agency is now arranging his removal to the US. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors say the drug supplied by Mr Nicholls and Mr Federuik caused the deaths of 25-year-old Jarrell and 26-year-old Bell when they were both stationed at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay in Camden County, Georgia. The two men were found dead days apart, as the US Navy confirmed both died of fentanyl overdoses. Katrina Berger, special agent for Homeland Security investigations, told the Daily Mail: This poison ultimately led to the deaths of two service members and destroyed the lives of countless others. Brian Jarrell, a US submariner, died of fentanyl overdose Ty Bell also died of a fentanyl overdose the pair died within days of each other and are said to have been among Mr Nichollss customers US prosecutors claim both men received packages from the dark web before their death. Postal packaging and labels were tracked back to Mr Nicholls and Mr Federuik who were seen dropping off packages for shipment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In February 2018, properties belonging to the pair were raided by The Royal Canadian Mounted Police, where evidence of 15 million-worth of the drug was found said to be enough to cause the deaths of thousands according to the Mounties. After dropping six parcels containing drugs at a post office, Mr Nicholls was arrested and sent back to Britain after the expiration of his Canadian visa. He is being held in Londons Wandsworth prison after being rearrested in May 2022 at Manchester Airport as he attempted to fly to Thailand. Karen Todner, his lawyer, told the paper: Nicholls denies any involvement in the supply of drugs to the US. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. A group of British members of Parliament has called for the transfer of all frozen Russian assets to Ukraine to send a clear message to Moscow that the aggressor must and will pay. Source: an open letter from a group of MPs published in The Times, as reported by European Pravda Details: In the letter, a group of UK legislators and politicians from allied countries say the government must decide how to legally transfer US$300 billion from the Russian Central Bank's frozen assets to Ukraine. They add that transferring at least 25.5 billion from UK accounts would send a strong signal of strategic resolve and help prevent future crises. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Previous loans and emergency funding are not enough and leave western taxpayers on the hook. Only using the assets themselves ensures that Russia pays for its crimes," they wrote. The letter came ahead of a parliamentary debate on Monday, 6 January on the seizure of frozen Russian assets to finance Ukraine during the war. The G7 countries have already committed to a US$50 billion loan to Ukraine which will be repaid using interest on frozen assets. The UK announced in October that it will offer a 2.26 billion loan to Ukraine as part of the G7's wider aid package. Ministers believe that transferring the assets themselves could cause legal problems. However, Mike Martin, a Liberal Democrat MP and former Army Reserve officer who is leading the debate, feels there must be another solution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There is an unanswerable moral, strategic and legal case for the use of Russian state assets to support Ukraine in its war effort. Its never been more urgent than in a world where the incoming US administration might be pulling the plug on support for Ukraine," he said. The letter was signed by more than a dozen UK MPs, as well as eight senior parliamentarians, including committee chairs, from allied countries such as Germany, Poland, the Baltic states and Finland. They pointed out that while freezing the interest on the US$50 billion in assets is an important first step, it provides Ukraine with emergency funding for at most a year. In addition, if the assets are unfrozen, Ukrainian or G7 taxpayers will be forced to repay the loan. Britain holds the largest amount of frozen Russian reserves outside the EU, and the MPs have said that the country could tap into its extensive global financial services sector. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Russias war economy is stretched to its limit. Seizing the invaders foreign assets is therefore strategically vital. It is legal. It will not harm financial stability," they noted. Background: In 2024, the G7 agreed to jointly provide Ukraine with a US$50 billion loan from Russian assets: the funds will be provided formally as a loan, but will be repaid through a tax on excess profits received from frozen Russian assets. At the end of December, Ukraine received the first tranche of the planned US$20 billion from the United States. Support UP or become our patron! British Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the lies and misinformation undermining the United Kingdoms democracy and his record after Elon Musks continued attacks. Starmer was asked about a barrage of criticism coming from billionaire Musk, who has been tapped to co-lead President-elect Trumps Department of Government Efficiency. The prime minister criticized Musk and the Conservative British politicians who have echoed some of Musks claims. He slammed them as people who are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible, The Associated Press reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk, who owns the social platform X, has boosted far-right political movements in the U.K. and Germany. Hes criticized Starmer, called for new elections in the U.K. and voiced support for far-right figures in the country. Musk has posted several messages accusing Starmer of what he has said is a failure as former director of public prosecutions to prosecute men who have raped young girls. Starmer has attempted to deflect Musks criticisms and defend his reputation as a prosecutor, Reuters reported. When I was chief prosecutor for five years, I tackled that head on, Starmer said, adding he reopened cases that had been closed and brought a prosecution against a grooming gang. I changed the whole prosecution approach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his remarks to the press, Starmer argued that the largest issue was not Musks posts on X, but the politicians in his country who were amplifying them. What are politicians here doing to stand up for our democracy? he questioned, adding that some Conservatives were so desperate for attention. Once we lose the anchor that truth matters then we are on a very slippery slope, Starmer said, per the AP. Musk continued posting and reposting criticisms of Starmer on his X account Monday. He responded to Starmers remarks, calling them an insane thing to say and the prime minister utterly despicable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Associated Press contributed. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 amount of money the British royal family receives from the U.K. Treasury will increase substantially in 2025. In April, the amount of money given from the British public purse to the monarchy will increase by over $56 million (45 million). This will increase the funding of the Sovereign Grant to over $165 million (132 million), a figure described as scandalous as the U.K. government struggles to find money for other budget items. (The Sovereign Grant is the amount paid to the monarchy by the U.K.s Treasury.) This is public money, all of this money comes from the government, at a time when the government is not able to properly fund schools, hospitals, police, CEO of Republic Graham Smith said, per Town & Country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is scandalous. Not only should it not be going up at all, it should be going down, Smith added. Samir Hussein/WireImage Princess Charlotte, Catherine, Princess of Wales, Camilla, Queen Consort, Prince Louis, Prince George, King Charles III and Prince William, Prince of Wales attend the Christmas Day service at Sandringham Church on Dec. 25, 2022 in Sandringham, Norfolk Princess Charlotte, Catherine, Princess of Wales, Camilla, Queen Consort, Prince Louis, Prince George, King Charles III and Prince William, Prince of Wales attend the Christmas Day service at Sandringham Church on Dec. 25, 2022 in Sandringham, Norfolk Related: Decembers Buckingham Palace State Visit Will Be the Last of Its Kind for the Next Three Years Heres Why The palace made it clear when the increase was announced in 2024 that much of the money would be put towards the $462 million (369 million) ongoing renovations to Buckingham Palace, expected to be completed in 2027. The palace didnt specify exactly how much money would be going to the renovations, however. This comes after the documentary The King, The Prince and Their Secret Millions was released in November, calling King Charles and Prince Williams private incomes from the Duchy of Lancaster and the Duchy of Cornwall, respectively, into question. The November Dispatches documentary revealed that the Duchies are charging the NHS, armed focus and charities rent to generate private income for members of the royal family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Investigation Exposes King Charles and Prince William's Estates Raking in Millions from Charities and Public Service Chris Jackson/Getty Images Standing in front of an Apache Helicopter King Charles III and Prince William, Prince of Wales smile during the official handover in which King Charles III passes the role of Colonel-in-Chief of the Army air corps to Prince William, Prince of Wales at the Army Aviation Centre on May 13, 2024 in Stockbridge, Hampshire Standing in front of an Apache Helicopter King Charles III and Prince William, Prince of Wales smile during the official handover in which King Charles III passes the role of Colonel-in-Chief of the Army air corps to Prince William, Prince of Wales at the Army Aviation Centre on May 13, 2024 in Stockbridge, Hampshire The Duchies are land and property portfolios that provide the monarch and the heir to the throne with an income. The Duchy of Lancaster paid the King, 76, $34.3 million (27.4 million) pounds in the last financial year, and the Duchy of Cornwall paid Prince William, 42, $29.5 million (23.6 million). In 2025 were going to be launching a campaign to have the Duchies abolished, Smith said, per Town & Country. I think that the Dispatches documentary really hit a nerve. I think people were really quite angry about it. Those arguing against the Duchies say that they belong to the State, and therefore should go to the U.K. Treasury for public good. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In statements shared with PEOPLE in November, spokespersons for both the Duchy of Lancaster and the Duchy of Cornwall emphasized each estates private status. Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty King Charles III departs after attending Sunday service at the Church of St Mary Magdalene on the Sandringham estate on Nov. 3, 2024 in Sandringham, England King Charles III departs after attending Sunday service at the Church of St Mary Magdalene on the Sandringham estate on Nov. 3, 2024 in Sandringham, England The Duchy of Lancaster manages a broad range of land and property assets. It is self-financing and does not receive any public funds in connection with its activities, said a spokesperson. It publishes an Annual Report and Accounts that is independently audited and available to view on its website and complies with all relevant U.K. legislation and regulatory standards applicable to its range of business activities. Through the Crown Lands Act 1702, the King receives income, not capital, from the Duchy of Lancaster, a private estate of 44,748 acres of land in England and Wales owned by the sovereign. Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more! Phil Noble - Pool/Getty Prince William, Prince of Wales takes part in a panel discussion during Earthshot+ at Portside Tower on Nov. 5, 2024 in Cape Town, South Africa Prince William, Prince of Wales takes part in a panel discussion during Earthshot+ at Portside Tower on Nov. 5, 2024 in Cape Town, South Africa Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As for the Duchy of Cornwall a private estate of almost 130,000 acres of land in southwest England that is owned by the heir to the throne a spokesperson said, The Duchy of Cornwall is a private estate with a commercial imperative which we achieve alongside our commitment to restoring the natural environment and generating positive social impact for our communities. The spokesperson added, Prince William became Duke of Cornwall in September 2022 and since then has committed to an expansive transformation of the Duchy. This includes a significant investment to make the estate net zero by the end of 2032, as well as establishing targeted mental health support for our tenants and working with local partners to help tackle homelessness in Cornwall. Per the Duchy of Cornwalls FAQ, Prince William chooses to use its revenue to pay for his public, private and charitable activities, and last summer the future king caused a stir after he declined to disclose how much he paid in taxes on the Duchy of Cornwalls $30 million payday for the 2023-2024 financial year. Read the original article on People Jan. 6Brookville voters during Tuesday's special recall election will decide on a proposal to remove the city's current mayor and vice mayor. Election Day voting is from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. only at Golden Gate Park, at 545 Upper Lewisburg Salem Road in Brookville. Early voting ended this weekend. The political action committee Brookville Citizens for Keep It Rural filed petitions in October to recall Brookville Mayor Chuck Letner and Vice Mayor James Zimmerlin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Petitioners associated with Brookville Citizens for Keep It Rural previously said residents have lost trust in the leadership of Letner and Zimmerlin. Those associated with the political action committee have also voiced concern over development in the city. Letner and Zimmerlin have both stood by their leadership, saying development is needed for thriving cities. If voters approve the recall of both Letner and Zimmerlin, the remaining members of Brookville's city council would select replacements to fill the unexpired terms for the remainder of 2025. These replacements, and any other interested candidates, would then run for office during the November 2025 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The special January election will cost the city an estimated $16,000, according to Brookville city manager Jack Kuntz. Registered voters in Ohio must bring a valid photo ID card with them to cast a ballot in-person. The Montgomery County Board of Elections will certify results from the special election on Jan. 15, according to its website. HOUSTON COUNTY, Ala. (WDHN) A plot of land that in recent years has been the scene of a mass shooting and several separate shootings has burned down and the new owners are looking to start with a clean slate. The new owners of the lot that used to house Teasers Gentlemens Club, Horizon Bar and Grill, and JRs Pizza Palace on U.S. Highway 84 in Newton are tearing down the building and starting anew. Sources tell WDHN that when the JRs moved out of the lot, it was sold to someone new. To clean the lot, they did a control burn on Sunday on the wood that remains from the structure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2021, Teasers closed its doors, and in 2023, Horizon Bar and Grill took over the plot of land and was granted a beer and wine license by the Houston County Commission after several attempts. It is unclear to us at this time what will be put on that lot. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com. Contract Load Accepted Volume (CLAV) is an index that measures accepted load volumes moving under contracted agreements. In short, it is similar to OTVI but without the rejected tenders. Looking at accepted tender volumes, the increase is greater than the increase in OTVI, due to a decline in tender rejection rates, rising 22.66% week over week. CLAV is still down 9.5% y/y. Both Mastercard and Visa spending data suggested a strong retail holiday season, with spending up 3.8% and 4.8% y/y, respectively. In a recent Reuters article , retail executives labeled consumers as cautious and conservative, and if those trends continue into 2025, it could create some pressure from a volume perspective that outpaced GDP growth for much of 2024. Even so, if the industrial side of the economy wakes from its slumber, it could more than offset any potential weakness from the consumer. The potential for another strike by the International Longshoremens Association in less than two weeks, along with the Lunar New Year looming less than a month away, could provide a short-term shot in the arm for volumes. With that said, based on the Inbound Ocean TEU Volume Index, which represents ocean volumes as they depart overseas, it appears less likely as there hasnt been a significant pull forward like there was this time last year. The Outbound Tender Volume Index (OTVI), a measure of national freight demand that tracks shippers requests for trucking capacity, is recovering from the dramatic drop associated with the holidays, rising 19.3% over the past week. It will take at least another week to offset the holiday to paint the true picture of the volume side of the market. Similar to how the market closed out 2024, the beginning of 2025 still lags behind year-ago levels, currently down 6.98% year over year. The holidays disrupted the flow of freight volumes, especially with both Christmas and New Years Day falling on a Wednesday. The result of that is a sizable drop in volumes that has become expected with the seven major holidays: New Years, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas, and to a lesser extent, Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The FreightWaves Supply Chain Pricing Power Index uses the analytics and data in FreightWaves SONAR to analyze the market and estimate the negotiating power for rates between shippers and carriers. Story Continues SONAR: Outbound Tender Volume Index Weekly Change To learn more about SONAR, click here. As the market recovers from the holiday season, the vast majority of the freight markets have seen growth in tender volumes over the past week. Of the 135 markets tracked within SONAR, 113 reported higher volumes over the past week. This isnt a surprise given the impacts of the holidays are still in full swing. The comparisons in coming weeks will be far more representative of true volume changes than those holiday-affected weeks. The Ontario, California, market, which has been at the top of the volume charts for much of 2024, did see a smaller increase than at the national level as volumes increased by 5.11% w/w. Itll be interesting to see whether, now that the holidays have passed and freight becomes less time-sensitive, intermodal volumes out of the market move higher and truckload volumes come under pressure during the first quarter. SONAR: Van Outbound Tender Volume Index (white, right axis) and Reefer Outbound Tender Volume Index (green, left axis) To learn more about SONAR, click here. By mode: The dry van market had a fairly impressive recovery in the past week, but volumes remain down by double digits compared to last year. The Van Outbound Tender Volume Index rose by 19.8% over the past week but is still down 10.2% year over year. The recovery in the reefer market is less impressive than that of the dry van market, but volumes are still up year over year. The Reefer Outbound Tender Volume Index increased by 8% over the past week. Compared to this time last year, reefer volumes are up 6.5%, showing that the reefer market continues to enjoy relative strength. Tender rejection rates retreat from holiday highs Tender rejection rates are retreating from their recent highs, but the reaction around the holiday provides a positive sign for carriers entering 2025. The first two months of the year will likely still be challenging for those in the market, which will lead to continued exits in capacity, but it sets up the middle of the year to be far better than it has been in the past two years. SONAR: Outbound Tender Reject Index Seasonality View: 2025 (white), 2024 (green) and 2023 (pink) To learn more about SONAR, click here. Over the past week, the Outbound Tender Reject Index (OTRI) fell by 256 basis points, an indication of capacity returning to the road, to 7.13%. Tender rejection rates are still 236 basis points higher than they were this time last year, a sign that the market is definitely tighter than it was this time last year, even if it doesnt feel that way to everyone in the market. SONAR: Outbound Tender Reject Index Weekly change To learn more about SONAR, click here. The map above shows the Outbound Tender Reject Index Weekly Change for the 135 markets across the country. Markets shaded in blue are those where tender rejection rates have increased over the past week, whereas those in red and white have seen rejection rates decline. The bolder the color, the more significant the change. Of the 135 markets, 22 reported higher rejection rates over the past week, down from the 67 that saw tender rejection rates rise in last weeks report. Its no surprise that capacity is returning to the highest-volume markets: Atlanta, Dallas and Ontario, California. Tender rejection rates in these markets are all down 200 basis points over the past week. Both Ontario and Atlanta are back below the national average. The positive sign is that rejection rates in each of these markets are still over 200 basis points higher than they were this time last year. Savannah, Georgia, was the only market in the top 35 largest freight markets by volume where tender rejection rates increased by over 100 basis points, rising 179 bps week over week. SONAR: Van Outbound Tender Reject Index (white), Reefer Outbound Tender Reject Index (green) and Flatbed Outbound Tender Reject Index (orange) To learn more about SONAR, click here. By mode: Tender rejection rates across all three modes are lower this week, but the dry van market experienced the smallest decline of the three. The Van Outbound Tender Reject Index fell by 225 basis points over the past week to 6.46%. Compared to this time last year, dry van tender rejection rates are up 89 basis points. The reefer market remains the tightest equipment type tracked within SONAR, despite the decrease in rejection rates over the past week. The Reefer Outbound Tender Reject Index fell by 275 bps over the past week to 15.84%. Reefer tender rejections are still more than double what they were this time last year, currently up 811 bps y/y. The flatbed market experienced the largest decline in tender rejections over the past week, but the market will likely remain under some pressure until warmer weather hopefully brings more projects. The Flatbed Outbound Tender Reject Index fell by 648 bps over the past week to 10.88%. Flatbed tender rejection rates are holding onto y/y gains, currently up 89 bps. Spot rates still rising as capacity returns to the road Though tender rejection rates are retreating from their recent highs, it hasnt stopped spot rates from continuing to rise over the past week. The positive momentum in spot rates that really started in early October hasnt been as quick to fade as the momentum in rejection rates. Spot rates are likely to face pressure over the next couple of months, but the increases to close out 2024 should help create a higher floor for spot rates. SONAR: SONAR National Truckload Index (white, right axis) and Initially Reported Van Contract Rate (green, left axis) To learn more about SONAR, click here. The National Truckload Index which includes fuel surcharge and various accessorials continued to increase, rising 3 cents per mile to $2.49. The NTI is 6 cents per mile higher than it was this time last year as the gap has narrowed as capacity has been fairly quick to return to the roads. The linehaul variant of the NTI (NTIL) which excludes fuel surcharges and other accessorials matched the increase in the overall NTI, rising 23 cents per mile to $1.94. The NTIL is 10 cents per mile higher, the narrowest the gap has been since early October. Initially reported dry van contract rates, which exclude fuel, fell off their recent Thanksgiving high, returning to the range they have been in for much of the year. The initially reported dry van contract rate, excluding fuel, increased by 4 cents per mile over the past week to $2.38. The initially reported dry van contract rate is reported on a two-week lag, so the impacts of the holiday are just starting to put upward pressure on contract rates. Compared to the same period last year, dry van contract rates are up 7 cents per mile. SONAR: RATES.USA To learn more about SONAR, click here. The chart above shows the spread between the NTIL and dry van contract rates is trending back to pre-pandemic levels. The spread remains wide, but with the recent moves in both spot and contract rates, it moved even wider than it was a week ago. Over the past week, the spread widened by 12 cents to minus 49 cents. Compared to this time last year, the spread is 20 cents per mile narrower than it was, another sign that the market is moving to a more carrier-friendly environment. SONAR: SONAR TRAC rate from Los Angeles to Dallas. To learn more about SONAR, click here. The SONAR Trusted Rate Assessment Consortium spot rate from Los Angeles to Dallas fell slightly over the past week but remained above contract rates. The TRAC rate from Los Angeles to Dallas decreased by 3 cents per mile to $2.72. Spot rates along this lane are 21 cents per mile above the contract at present, which could be a reason why capacity was quick to return to the Southern California market. SONAR: SONAR TRAC rate from Atlanta to Chicago. To learn more about SONAR, click here. From Chicago to Atlanta, spot rates have been volatile, finally moving above contract rates and to the highest level in the past six months. The TRAC rate for this lane increased over the past week by 9 cents per mile to $2.86. Spot rates are now 5 cents per mile higher than contract rates, which could lead to tighter conditions along this lane. The post Capacity returns to the road following the holidays appeared first on FreightWaves. SOFIA, Bulgaria (AP) Thousands of Orthodox Christian worshippers in Bulgaria on Monday braved the freezing winter weather to plunge into icy waters as they observed centuries-old Epiphany traditions. Young men plunged into rivers and lakes across the Balkan country, which is primarily Orthodox, to retrieve crucifixes tossed by priests in ceremonies commemorating the baptism of Jesus Christ. It is believed that the person who retrieves the wooden cross will be freed from evil spirits and will be healthy throughout the year. After the cross is fished out, the priest sprinkles believers with water using a bunch of basil. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the tiny city of Elin Pelin, situated in a rural area east of the capital, Sofia, dozens of men jumped into the wintry waters of the Lesnovska River to catch the blessed cross. The peak of the celebrations was the slow mazhko horo, or mens dance, performed by men dressed in traditional white embroidered shirts who waded into the river singing folk songs and waving national flags. The celebration of Epiphany, or the Apparition of Christ, as Bulgarians call it, began on Monday in Sofia with a water blessing ceremony. Senior clergymen of Bulgarias Orthodox church said prayers for the prosperity of the people and blessed the colors of representative army units in a tradition that was abandoned in 1946 but re-established following the fall of communism in 1992. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Epiphany marks the end of the 12 days of Christmas, but not all Orthodox Christian churches celebrate it on the same day. While the churches in Greece, Bulgaria, Ukraine and Romania celebrate the feast on Jan. 6, Orthodox Churches in Russia and Serbia follow the Julian calendar, according to which Epiphany is celebrated on Jan. 19, as their Christmas falls on Jan. 7. SWEETWATER, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) A suspect accused of burglarizing vehicles in the parking lot of several hotels in the west Texas area was arrested in Sweetwater after a drone-assisted manhunt. Bryce Long was taken into custody in a wooded area near the Holiday Inn Express off I-20 Saturday morning. Another suspect, Billy Martin, was arrested at the motel where a burglary in progress had been reported. When officers arrived to the burglary call a press release from the Sweetwater Police Department states they took Martin into custody and he was in possession of a stolen handgun. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Long fled the scene on foot and was later located after a multi-agency manhunt that utilized thermal drone imaging as well as a K-9 scene. After Long was successfully apprehended, the press release states he was found to be armed with a handgun. The press release also states that stolen property, such as electronics, tools, firearms, identifying information, and more, was recovered in the suspects possession. Investigators believe the property is from hotel parking lot burglaries across multiple cities form Odessa to Abilene. Long is being held in the Nolan County Jail on charges for Unlawful Carrying of a Weapon with a Felony Conviction, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, Possession of Controlled Substance (PG1) 1g-4g, Tampering with Evidence, Theft of Firearm, Fraudulent Use/Possession of Identifying Information, Burglary of a Motor Vehicle, and Evading Arrest/Detention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Martin is being held in the Nolan County Jail on charges for Unlawful Carrying of a Weapon with a Felony Conviction, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, Theft of Firearm, Fraudulent Use/Possession of Identifying Information, and Burglary of a Motor Vehicle. No further information is available at this time. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com. LIBERTY, Ohio (WKBN) A portion of Tibbetts Wick Road in Liberty was closed after a crash involving a Community Bus Services bus. Read next: Next winter storm to impact the Valley The bus hit a pole near Pleasant Valley Road on Monday morning, blocking the area. No one other than the driver was on board at the time of the crash. No injuries were reported, according to the fire department. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. ONSET, Mass. (WWLP) Multiple businesses in a strip mall on Cranberry Highway in Onset are now without a storefront after a four-alarm fire tore through the building on Sunday. Assistant Fire Chief Howard Andersen says crews were called at around 11:38 a.m. for a fire alarm system alert and a caller reported a fire at 3086 Cranberry Highway. Upon arrival, heavy smoke could be seen coming from the multi-unit commercial buildings, everyone was able to evacuate safely. Massachusetts man serving over 7 years in prison ordered to pay funeral expenses for fentanyl overdose death Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the assistance of nearly 60 firefighters, the fire, mostly on the first floor, left extensive damage to some of the businesses inside. The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services Hazardous Materials Response Team was called due to a large quantity of Lithium-Ion batteries in one of the businesses. A firefighter was injured and was treated and later released from Tobey Hospital. Wareham Police Department Wareham Police Department Wareham Police Department Crews are still working to figure out how the fire started. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The Justice Department has reached an agreement with Antioch, California, and its police department following an investigation into alleged discriminatory conduct by the city's officers against members of the public. The department launched its investigation after alleged text conversations between dozens of Antioch Police Department (APD) personnel between September 2019 and January 2022 were made public following a separate investigation by the Contra Costa County District Attorney's Office and the FBI. In the alleged text messages, officers used racial slurs to describe Black residents, applauded use of force incidents, and mocked George Floyd and the protests concerning his death at the hands of law enforcement. They also allegedly contained homophobic and sexually explicit text messages. PHOTO: The seal of the U.S. Justice Department is seen on the podium in the Department's headquarters briefing room before a news conference with the Attorney General in Washington, Jan. 24, 2023. (Kevin Lamarque/Reuters) Fair and nondiscriminatory policing is fundamental to effective law enforcement, especially for those agencies that receive federal funding, said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division. In working with the Justice Department to institute policing reform, Antioch Police Department sends a strong message that the discrimination and misconduct that prompted this investigation will not be tolerated. The agreement we have secured will ensure that Antiochs policing practices are free from discrimination in the road ahead the community deserves nothing less. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement APD and the City of Antioch have committed to receive guidance from an appointed expert law enforcement consultant to implement police reforms concerning use of force, discrimination, misconduct, hiring, and more. "The actions that prompted this investigation were unacceptable and failures occurred," read an online statement from the APD. MORE: City of Antioch and police officers face lawsuit over alleged civil rights violations, racist texts It continued, "The City of Antioch is fully committed to ensuring that such incidents never occur again. Our collaboration with the USDOJ underscores our dedication to fostering trust, transparency, and accountability within our Police Department. Under this five-year agreement, we will implement and enhance comprehensive policies, practices, training programs, community engagement initiatives, and oversight mechanisms to ensure that officers uphold integrity and fairness while addressing misconduct swiftly and effectively." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city of Antioch and at least nine police officers are currently facing a lawsuit following the release of the texts over alleged civil rights violation against residents. In responses to the complaint, one defendant argued that they are protected by qualified immunity, and that they did not violate plaintiffs rights and did not violate clearly established law: "Defendant denies each and every, all and singular, of the allegations contained in said [complaint], and each purported cause of action therein contained, and further denies that any Plaintiff was, is, or will be injured in the sums or sums therein alleged or otherwise or at all." The department declined to comment at the time. ABC News has reached back out for comment. ABC News' Tesfaye Negussie contributed to this report. California police department agrees to reform after investigation into racist texts originally appeared on abcnews.go.com This article was originally published in CalMatters. California lawmakers are proposing steps to protect K-12 students and families from mass deportations although the real value of those proposals may be symbolic. A pair of bills in the Legislature AB 49 and SB 48 aim to keep federal agents from detaining undocumented students or their families on or near school property without a warrant. The bills are a response to President-elect Donald Trumps threat to deport undocumented immigrants, a move which could have major consequences for schools in California, which funds its schools based on attendance and where 12% of students have at least one undocumented parent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both bills would make it harder and more time-consuming for agents to enter schools or day care centers. But they can only delay, not stop, arrests. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter In no way can these bills override federal law, said Kevin Johnson, a law professor at UC Davis. But the bills respond to a great concern in the community that its not safe to take your children to school. I cant emphasize enough how important this is, how vulnerable undocumented immigrants feel right now. In no way can these bills override federal law, said Kevin Johnson, a law professor at UC Davis. But the bills respond to a great concern in the community that its not safe to take your children to school. I cant emphasize enough how important this is, how vulnerable undocumented immigrants feel right now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AB 49, proposed by Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi, a Democrat from Torrance, would require immigration agents to obtain written permission from the superintendent before coming onto school property. It also bars agents from being in rooms where children are present. SB 48, introduced by Sen. Lena Gonzalez, a Democrat from Long Beach, would prohibit local police from cooperating with federal agents such as assisting in arrests or providing information about families immigration status within one mile of a school. It also bars schools from sharing student and family information with federal authorities. School districts have also doubled down on their efforts to protect students and families. Los Angeles Unified has partnered with legal aid organizations to assist families and instructed schools not to ask students about their immigration status. San Francisco Unified has similar policies. (San Francisco Unified) is a safe haven for all students regardless of citizenship status, Superintendent Maria Su wrote to the community after the November election. SFUSD restates our position that all students have the right to attend school regardless of their immigration status or that of their family members. Schools as safe havens Schools have long been safe havens for immigrant students. Under a 1982 Supreme Court ruling, public schools must enroll all students regardless of their immigration status and cant charge tuition to students who arent legal residents. And since 2011, federal guidelinesdiscourage agents from making immigration arrests at schools, hospitals, churches, courthouses and other sensitive locations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Trump said he plans to eliminate the sensitive locations guidelines, and the Heritage Foundation, which published the right-leaning Project 2025 manifesto, is encouraging states to charge tuition to undocumented K-12 students. That could set up the possible overturn of the Supreme Court decision guaranteeing access to school for undocumented students. The foundations rationale is that government agencies such as schools are already overburdened and need to prioritize services for U.S. citizens. The (Biden) administrations new version of America is nothing more than an open-border welfare state, Lora Ries, director of the Heritage Foundations Border Security and Immigration Center, wrote. No country can sustain or survive such a vision. Muratsuchi, chair of the Assembly Education Committee, said he was inspired to author AB 49 just after the election, when he listened to the concerns of immigrant students in the political science class he teaches at El Camino Community College in Torrance. It became clear there was more and more fear among my students, not only for themselves but for their families. The fear of families being torn apart is very real, Muratuschi said. We want to send a strong message to our immigrant students that were going to do everything we can to protect them. Too scared to speak up For most undocumented families, deportation would mean a plunging into poverty and in many cases, violence. Nahomi, a high school senior in Fresno County whom CalMatters is identifying by her middle name because of her immigration status, described the threat of deportation as a major worry for my family and I. Our lives could change completely in a blink of an eye. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nahomi and her parents arrived in California in 2011 from the city of Culiacan in Sinaloa, Mexico, an area plagued by widespread violence. They initially planned to stay until Sinaloa became safer, but once they settled in the Central Valley they decided the risks of returning outweighed the risk of deportation, so they stayed. Nahomis father works in construction and her mother is a homemaker, raising Nahomi and her younger sister. While she and her family fear deportation, Nahomi is not afraid to attend school. She said schools can help families know their rights and help children feel safe. I feel very welcomed and safe there, she said. It is a very diverse high school and I just feel like any other student. (But) a lot of these families are probably too scared to speak up about doubts they might have. Politically unpopular? Patricia Gandara, an education professor and co-director of the Civil Rights Project at UCLA, said the risk of federal agents arresting students at schools is probably small. Its unclear how many children in K-12 schools are undocumented, but its probably a relatively small number, she said. In any case, immigration enforcement that affects children almost always sparks public outcry from both parties, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some people might say theyre anti-immigrant, but its another thing entirely when the family up the street, whom theyve known for 20 years, suddenly gets deported, or your kids best friend gets deported, said Gandara, whos studied the topic extensively. Its politically very unpopular. Still, the proposed bills could send a powerful message that schools are safe places, she said. Immigration crackdowns can have a significant impact on student attendance, a Stanford study found, which can lead to less funding for schools, particularly low-income schools that enroll large numbers of immigrant children. Immigration crackdowns can also lead to an increase in bullying, anxiety and general uncertainty on campus, not just for immigrant children but for everyone, Gandara said. Teachers, in particular, experience high levels of stress when their students safety is endangered, she said. Schools are one of the last places immigrant families feel safe, she said. But as soon as (federal agents) move into schools, theyre not so safe any more. These bills say, Were not going to sit back and let this happen. Not all of government is against you. California one of the best places to be Both bills are awaiting hearings in the Legislature. Tammy Lin, supervising attorney with the University of San Diego Immigration Clinic, expects California to continue to take steps to protect undocumented families, but political conflicts will be inevitable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incoming Trump administration is likely to battle California and other left-leaning states over immigration matters. Even within California, conflicts are likely to erupt between state leaders and those in more conservative regions, or even between agencies in the same area. In San Diego County, for example, the Board of Supervisors ordered the sheriffs office to not notify federal immigration officers when it releases suspected undocumented inmates from jail, but the sheriff refused to comply. Lin also said she wouldnt be surprised if theres an attempt to overturn the Supreme Court ruling guaranteeing education to undocumented children, potentially paving the way for other immigrants rights to be reversed. Its a slippery slope, Lin said. Immigrants know this, which is why theres immense fear and uncertainty right now. But bills like these show that California is still one of the best places you can be. Suriyah Jones, a member of the CalMatters Youth Journalism Initiative, contributed to this story. This story was originally published on CalMatters. AUSTIN (KXAN) In the aftermath of the terror attack in New Orleans that killed 14 people, there are questions over how well prepared Texas is to prevent something similar from happening. That topic isnt a new one and has been looked at in detail by law enforcement, and a 2021 study from the University of Texas titled Domestic Terrorism in the Digital Age. While researchers analyzed trends from across the U.S., they also spent much of the study examining Texas specifically. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They found, in part, that government efforts at the federal, state and local levels had not adequately responded to the rising threat of domestic terrorist attacks, which rose 144% from 2019 to 2020. The problems in Texas were compounded by demographic shifts, the growth of hate groups, and barriers to coordination, intelligence gathering, and funding, according to the study. The study calls out social media as a way of amplifying grievances and speeding up the radicalization of isolated people, while reinforcing their extremist beliefs. Among its recommendations are an expanded effort that includes the private sector, non-governmental organizations, and government agencies collaborating together. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement University of Texas Professor Paul Pope directed the study and has a background in intelligence and national security after serving in the military and working for the CIA. Pope talked with KXAN about some of the studys key takeaways. The interview was lightly edited for clarity and brevity. Tom Miller: What did your study find when it comes to whats driving domestic terrorism in Texas? Professor Paul Pope: The thing thats driving it in Texas is the same thats driving it across the country. I would give you three broad categories. One is polarization. Political polarization is a big factor. Two is social media. Its very much an accelerant to the path to violence. It can go much faster with social media than it did in previous times. Then three is mental health. Many of these incidents have a major mental health component. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tom: When you look specifically at Austin, what are some of our vulnerabilities here? Pope: Whats happened since 9/11 is we have hardened a lot of our targets. If you want to make a political statement, things that you would hit, you cant. Whats happened is that effort has driven anybody who wants to commit this kind of act of violence toward softer targets. Austin has many of these mass gatherings that become soft targets that our law enforcement and federal authorities and others have to deal with. Tom: What department is responsible for keeping Texans safe from domestic terrorism? Pope: The Texas Department of Public Safety. But the real answer to your question is the key to this issue. If no one tells the FBI, or the Texas Department of Public Safety through its tip line, or the local police, that theyre worried about somebody committing an act of violence, in many cases there may be no tripwire whatsoever that would prompt an investigation. Thats very different than a coordinated attack by an external terrorist group. The path to violence can be so rapid. Its all of us, including you in the media, me in academia, but also just as private citizens we have a responsibility. Law enforcement has a very narrow window in which they can open an investigation, and if they dont have our help, its going to be really hard to do that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tom: What are some of the solutions that you put forward, and have you seen those implemented? Pope: One place I would like to see resources applied is education of the public. The idea that if I see something that seems weird, do I call? Dont I call? Call. If your friend is, you know, making bombs in his basement, maybe you want to give somebody a call. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The City of Las Vegas set up a barricade at a homeless encampment. (Michael Lyle/Nevada Current) A man is sleeping on the ground next to a bus stop wrapped in a blanket when he is spotted by a police officer. A City of Las Vegas Marshal notices the 55-year-old while patrolling near the Fremont Street Experience in Downtown Las Vegas on a recent November morning, according to the police report. Officer James Blaisure determines the man is unhoused and violating an expanded ban passed by the city council earlier in the month that restricts camping or lodging citywide even if there arent available shelter beds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The officer sees the mans walker covered in clothes next to him as he sleeps. Blaisure unwraps his blanket and tells him he cannot sleep there. The man is asked if he has been to the Courtyard Homeless Resource Center, roughly a mile away that can accommodate up to 550 people with a sleeping mat at night. He tells the officer he was going to make his way over there eventually, according to the police report. It was the second time in a week that officers had warned him for the same offense camping or lodging without consent, a misdemeanor that could carry a $1,000 fine. Experts and advocates suspect such encounters are on the rise following a U.S. Supreme Court ruling in June that cities dont violate the Eighth Amendments restriction on cruel and unusual punishment when they criminalize those experiencing homelessness for sleeping outside even if there arent other adequate accommodations for them to go. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The National Homeless Law Center tracked cities that have passed anti-homeless camping bans or expanded existing camping bans to make them more punitive since the high courts decision. It found 99 ordinances were passed in 26 states that restrict unhoused people from sleeping and camping, according to data it provided to States Newsroom in November. Another 66 ordinances were pending at the time. But with homelessness rising, driven by the lack of affordable housing, low wages, and limited access to social services among other factors, advocates say the court decision stands to worsen an issue that has become more politicized in recent years. Every bill is a little bit different, said Jesse Rabinowitz, the communications and campaign director for the National Homelessness Law Center. The main two things they all have in common are that none of them solve homelessness and all of them will make homelessness worse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A full report from the law center on recent criminalization trends is expected to be released in early 2025. Roughly a third of all camping bans the National Homeless Law Center has tracked since July were passed in California, the state with the largest homeless population. Illinois had the second highest with 13 ordinances, all that featured language crafted by the Illinois Municipal League. Eric Tars, senior policy director at the National Homeless Law Center, said there is a common refrain across cities adopting ordinances with local officials saying its not our intent to criminalize people experiencing homelessness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The camping bans passed in Illinois cities start with a $75 fine, a hefty price for someone experiencing homelessness. The cost can increase each time. Violating camping bans could result in a $50 fine in Merced, California and a $100 fine in Phoenix, Arizona. A West Virginia city expanded a ban in September, prohibiting camping and storing personal property in public spaces, West Virginia Watch reported. Morgantown officials set penalties ranging from fines of $200 to $300 for second and third offense as well as possible jail time. Kinsburg, California has fines up to $500. Similar to Las Vegas fine, ordinances passed in some California cities like Fresno, Indio and Hemet could come with up to $1,000 fines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Las Vegas City Marshals, which oversee public safety and enforcement on city-owned property, issued citations to three unhoused people sleeping near the Fremont Street Experience in November. In addition to a potential $1,000 fine, the 55-year-old man also faces up to six months in jail after his 2025 court date. In an email, a Las Vegas official said that its up to the judge to decide whether to implement the full amount. Unhoused people who are arrested under many of these new ordinances could also face jail time ranging from 10 days to a year, the law center reported. In the Illinois cities that passed similar camping bans, jail time is possible if someone violates the ordinances more than six times in a two-year period. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not all the bans tracked in the last five months are new, but some have been amended to be more restrictive following the Supreme Court ruling, according to the law center. Cities including Las Vegas; Oceanside, California; Paso Robles California; Bremerton, Washington; and Auburn, Washington all updated existing camping and sleeping bans in recent months to remove provisions that prevented enforcement if shelter beds werent available. When passing these ordinances, Tars said officials often try to assuage their conscience and say things like we want to push them into services or were working on other shelters. Things like those will take longer, if ever, he said. The camping ban they pass goes into effect immediately. Even without those services theyre already moving toward enforcement. Thats the only piece they prioritize. That really tells you what their priorities are. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Public pressure to do more The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development found that nationally 654,104 people experienced homelessness on a single night in 2023, a 12% increase from the previous year. The numbers are largely viewed as an under count as the method of counting individuals on a single January night comes with challenges and an already transient population can easily fall through the cracks. Marcy Thompson, vice president for programs and policy at the National Alliance to End Homelessness, said data doesnt give a full picture of homelessness. If you just look at that data, its easy to assume that things arent working and that homelessness response systems arent doing their job, or that resources arent being spent appropriately, Thompson said. What you dont see in those numbers are things like, how many people are becoming homeless each year for the first time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Low wages not keeping up with the cost of rent, the lack of access to health care and mental health resources and systemic racism have all contributed to the homeless crisis, she said. On the list of policy issues that contribute to homelessness, Thompson said the lack of affordable and available housing nationwide is at the top. The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, signed into law by President Joe Biden, provided cities and states with an historic, one-shot infusion of flexible dollars that some used to address housing shortages or stand up homeless resources. Lauren Lowery, the Housing and Community Development director with the National League of Cities, said those funds resulted in $6.7 billion for housing-related expenditures, which is like over 10 years of the home investment block grant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ARPA dollars were very significant about helping cities to address those at risk for homelessness and those experiencing homelessness as well, she said. But the investments, while significant, were never enough, Thompson said. There isnt sufficient housing, she said. As homelessness becomes more visible, theres often a lot of public pressure to do something. The law center said of the 187 cities previously surveyed in recent years they found that each one had at least one, if not multiple, laws criminalizing homelessness in some form, Tars said. In 2023, Georgia lawmakers passed a bill that mandates local governments to enforce ordinances prohibiting unauthorized public camping and sleeping on sidewalks and other public spaces, the Georgia Recorder reported. The measure also requires an audit of how public funding is used for programs to help people experiencing homelessness. Gov. Bill Lee allowed a Tennessee law banning camping on public property to take effect without his signature in 2022, calling for the need to seek solutions to address homelessness, the Tennessee Lookout reported. Almost nowhere in America can you do all of the activities that you and I do every day and take for granted, Tars said. Eating, sleeping, resting, sitting. Were all sitting right now. If we were doing that and we were homeless and doing that outside in a public space, it might be considered a crime. There were attempts to limit punitive measures. Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs vetoed Republican-sponsored legislation in 2023 that would have made it illegal for unhoused persons to camp in public spaces. And the Missouri Supreme Court struck down that states public camping ban on a technicality. An appellate court in 2022 ruled in favor of unhoused people who sought to overturn city ordinances passed in Grants Pass, Oregon, that restricted and fined people for sleeping and camping in public even though there arent other places to go. Many Western cities within the jurisdiction of the court submitted amicus briefs the following year asking the Supreme Court to overturn the decision. Many argued their hands were tied to address homelessness because of the federal courts ruling. Anit Jindal, an attorney representing the League of Oregon Cities, wrote in a brief that the 9th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals decision limits the tools available to local governments for tackling this complex and troubling human issue. When we talk to cities about the need to build housing or the need to fund outreach or services, they say cities cant move quickly because government is slow, Rabinowitz said. They have moved very, very quickly to pass these bills that make homelessness worse. Even as the federal courts ruling stood, cities carried out encampment removals and adopted carefully worded ordinances to criminalize sleeping in a public right of way but only when shelter beds werent available. In a 6-3 ruling this June, the Supreme Court reversed Johnson v. City of Grants Pass paving a way for cities to adopt camping and sleeping restrictions. In a statement to States Newsroom, Jeff Olivet, executive director of U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness, said cities are facing a difficult decision when it comes to the rising number of encampments. Encampments raise significant, legitimate concerns about the health and safety of neighborhoods and local businesses, he said. However, the criminalization of homelessness is ineffective, expensive, and inhumane. Housing and health care, not handcuffs and fines, solve homelessness. An uncertain future In the days following his re-election, Republican Donald Trump vowed in his second term to use every tool, lever and authority to get the homeless off our streets. Trump proposed an urban camping ban. He said he would open up large parcels of inexpensive land and create tent cities where the homeless can be relocated and their problems identified. He plans to bring in doctors, social workers and job rehab specialists. The threat of a national camping ban from Trump isnt new and something he spoke about during his first term. Before the Grants Pass decision, the 9th Circuit ruled in the 2018 case Martin v. Boise that cities cant punish people for sleeping on the streets if there isnt any alternative shelter. The Supreme Court declined to review the case in 2019. Tars said the courts decision might have prevented Trump from pursuing aggressive plans toward pressuring cities to enact punitive measures toward the unhoused. Now that the Supreme Court has overturned the Martin v. Boise principle in the Grants Pass case, that has basically paved the way for him to pick up right where he left off, only bigger, better and worse, Tars said. There are still mounting questions around what legal authority Trump would have federally to criminalize homelessness. Thompson said there are other ways the federal response to homelessness and the housing crisis could change in a second Trump term. When awarding grants, HUD gives points to communities who are demonstrating that they are not criminalizing homelessness, she said. Another administration could choose to take those points away or offer those points for something else, right? she added. HUD isnt the only department that could change how it approaches homelessness. Weve seen the Department of Justice over the years provide guidance around the importance of not criminalizing, Thompson added. Weve seen guidance around good first responder and community partnerships that are housing focused from Department of Justice. Weve seen them speak out against community and state level tactics that have been enforced. Those guidances, she added, could change and push more punitive tactics. Even who is appointed to agencies could impact the direction the federal government takes to address homelessness, Rabinowitz said. The 2019 pick to head the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness, Robert Marbut, had been against housing first strategy. While it is still unclear about a second Trump administration, Rabinowitz said early indicators show that Trump could force more people into homelessness by gutting further the social safety net. Once people are homeless, they (Trump administration) have no plan to address it other than literally rounding people up and putting them in detention camps, he added. Little daylight between Republicans, Dems Although many are worried about what a more punitive approach to homelessness could look like under Trump and a Republican-controlled Congress, Tars said its not just Republicans who have embraced harsh stances toward the unhoused. Democratic mayors, governors, people who should know better, are aligning themselves with the same position that Trump is taking, he said. One example Tars points to is Californias Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, who signed an executive order less than a month after the Supreme Court decision around encampments. The directive orders state agencies to remove an encampment if they determine it poses an imminent threat to life, health, safety or infrastructure and if feasible to remove the encampment. The order requires notices be posted 48 hours prior to an encampment removal. Following the directive, Newsom said there is now no excuse not to clean out encampments. Tars warned moving people out of encampments isnt easy, especially if there isnt enough housing or shelter space for people to go. He warned the method to remove people could lead to more people ending up in jail. Rabinowitz said Newsoms push to clear out encampments shows theres often little daylight between what Democrats like (Gov.) Gavin Newsom and what far right extremists like Donald Trump want to do in regards to homelessness. The governors office declined to answer questions about whether the directive could push more unhoused people into the criminal legal system or how the effectiveness of the directive is being monitored. In a statement to States Newsroom, the office said Governor Newsoms stance is not to forcibly remove homeless encampments or people. We cannot comment on hypotheticals for the next administration or policies which have not yet been enacted, but California always stands ready to protect the best interests of our state and people, said Tara Gallegos, a spokeswoman for the governor. California will continue to advance person-centered approaches to help people access help, shelter, and affordable housing options. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX By Anjana Anil and Ashitha Shivaprasad (Reuters) - Antimony prices are likely to hit record levels as consumers seek alternative supplies following China's latest export ban with growing trade tensions changing the dynamics around markets for critical materials. Last month, China banned exports to the United States of critical minerals gallium, germanium and antimony. Prices of antimony, used in semiconductors and military applications, hit all-time highs, currently trading between $39,500-40,000 per metric ton in Rotterdam as of Dec. 31. Prices rose by around 250% in 2024. Traders expect prices to climb above $40,000 a ton following China's ban amid an ongoing global supply shortage. "We have already sold some small quantities for $40,000," a minor metals trader in Europe said. "Non-Chinese sellers...will charge more to maximize profits." China produced nearly 50% of global antimony supplies estimated at 83,000 tons last year, according to data from U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Traders said China's bans are in line with a strategy to consolidate mineral production internally. "The U.S. has already diversified its supply chains away from China where possible, buying more from southeast Asia," said Ellie Saklatvala, head of non-ferrous metals pricing at Argus. "However, it is unclear in the near-term how they will be able to fill the gap now left by China." China also banned exports of gallium, germanium to the United States, but this will have limited impact as the U.S. has stopped buying these critical minerals from China. "Still markets are made of people and not only of fundamentals, therefore some bullish pressure is expected as traders exploit the ban to move prices up," said Theo D. Ruas, Global Sales Manager, Metals & Compounds at Indium Corporation. "China's ban on raw materials shows how important additional supply outside China is. Being self-sufficient must be a short term goal for the U.S. government." China's dominance in critical minerals has fuelled concern about which other metals could be marked for the next round of export curbs. One trader said China could target Bismuth and Manganese. (Reporting by Anjana Anil, Ashitha Shivaprasad, Sherin Varghese, and Anushree Mukherjee in Bengaluru; Amy Lv in Beijing; editing by Pratima Desai and Ed Osmond) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is preparing to announce his resignation as Liberal Party Leader as soon as Monday, according to a new report in The Globe and Mail . Following a steep downfall in public opinion polls and an unhappy caucus calling on him to quit, three sources told the Canadian newspaper that while they dont know exactly when Trudeau would announce his resignation, it is likely to happen before a key national caucus meeting on Wednesday. The newspaper added that it would not be identifying the sources as they were not authorized to discuss internal party matters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the sources, who claimed to have spoken recently to Trudeau, said that the prime minister acknowledges that he has to make the announcement before he meets the Liberal caucus so that it doesnt look like he was edged out by his own party members. The three sources also added that they are unsure of who would replace Trudeau as the Liberal Partys leader after his resignation, noting that its not clear whether or not hell leave immediately upon his resignation or stay on until a new leader is selected. The Liberal Party national executive group is slated to meet this week, according to The Globe and Mail. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau holds a press conference on the airline industry in Montreal, Quebec on July 15, 2021. / ANDREJ IVANOV/AFP via Getty Images While Trudeau had been facing pressure from his party for some time now, tensions were exacerbated on Dec. 16 after his finance minister and deputy prime minister Chrystia Freeland surprisingly resigned, citing spending gimmicks and a lack of serious initiative in dealing with President-elect Donald Trumps proposed tariffs as reasons. We need to take [Trumps tariff] threat extremely seriously. That means keeping our fiscal powder dry today, so we have the reserves we may need for a coming tariff war, Freeland wrote to Trudeau in a resignation letter she made public. That means eschewing costly political gimmicks, which we can ill afford and which make Canadians doubt that we recognize the gravity of the moment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeaus silence on the matter sparked concern amongst Liberal members of parliament who renewed their calls for him to leave. The Atlantic, Ontario, and Quebec caucuses have all claimed that the majority of their membership no longer supports Trudeau, per The Globe and Mail. Those three regions account for 131 of the Liberal partys seats in the House of Commons. The party holds 153 seats to begin with. Meanwhile, the leader of the New Democratic Party that Trudeaus Liberals rely on for support in the House of Commons, Jagmeet Singh, similarly called for him to resign in December following Freelands departure. In a post published to X on Dec. 20, Singh wrote: Justin Trudeau failed in the biggest job a Prime Minister has: to work for people, not the powerful. The NDP will vote to bring this government down, and give Canadians a chance to vote for a government who will work for them. According to The Globe and Mail, Trudeau reportedly told Liberal members of parliament that he would reflect on his future but would not announce any decision over the holidays. The newspaper adds that his closest advisors have been meeting with senior Liberals over the past two weeks to determine whether or not Trudeau can remain as leader of the party and Prime Minister until he is replaced. OTTAWA Canadas Justin Trudeau era is coming to an end. The three-term prime minister announced Monday morning that he plans to step down as prime minister and as party leader once the Liberals choose his successor. Trudeau told Canadians in a televised address that although he prides himself on being a fighter, he will step aside because of the divisiveness and polarization around his leadership including inside his own caucus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if Im having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election, Trudeau said from a lectern outside the front door of his official residence on a frigid winter morning. Trudeau chose a backdrop familiar to Canadians: his front door was where he addressed the anxious nation at least 80 times in the first four months of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, a period of his rule where his popularity was high, unlike today. Trudeau also announced that the governor general granted his request to shut down the Parliament until March 24, a move that adds to uncertainty in Ottawa ahead of Donald Trump's return to the White House. The prorogation of Parliament comes in face of Trumps threats to impose 25 percent tariffs on Canadian imports to the U.S. something he said he could do on his first day in the White House on Jan. 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau's announcement of prorogation ends the current parliamentary session and stops legislation and committee business in their tracks. Prorogation is a blunt tool meant to allow Trudeau's inner circle to regroup following the recent resignation of the prime ministers longtime finance minister and ally, Chrystia Freeland Trudeau suffered a fatal blow in December when Freeland quit Cabinet in a stunning departure that capped a catastrophic year for the prime minister. Many Liberal lawmakers lost the faith shortly afterwards, encouraging the prime minister to step aside for the good of his party and his own legacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau addressed Freelands departure for the first time on Monday calling her an incredible political partner for much of the past decade. He confirmed he had wanted her to stay on as his deputy prime minister and take on one of the most important files that not just this government but this country is facing. But she chose otherwise. The prime ministers departure will leave Liberals scrambling for a new leader to take on Pierre Poilievre, Canada's ascendant Conservative leader. In a pre-recorded video released on X, shortly after Trudeaus announcement, Poilievre called for an immediate election. He accused all Liberal MPs of backing policies that have left the country broken. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their only objection is that he is no longer popular enough to win an election and keep them in power, he said. Trudeau is the latest victim in a global line of sinking incumbents U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, France's Emmanuel Macron, U.S. President Joe Biden and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, for example who left the global pandemic with a foot in the political grave. By the fall of 2024, Canadians had turned on Trudeau, many angry and worn out by a cost-of-living crisis and the sense that the Liberal leader had fallen out of touch. After more than nine years in the top job, the 53-year-old Trudeau had appeared vulnerable for months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In September, the progressive New Democratic Party pulled out of a two-year-old governing deal, leaving Trudeaus hold on power uncertain without a reliable ally. During the fall session, Trudeaus minority government was mostly unable to pass legislation thanks to a Conservative procedural debate that snarled House of Commons business. Freeland, once seen as Trudeau's heir apparent, made clear she is not resigning her seat in Parliament and that she intends to seek another term. In her resignation letter, Freeland argued stridently for fiscal discipline in the face of Trump's threat of 25 percent tariffs on Canadian imports. "We need to take the threat extremely seriously. That means keeping our fiscal powder dry today, so we have the reserves we may need for a coming tariff war," she said. "That means eschewing costly political gimmicks, which we can ill afford and which make Canadians doubt that we recognize the gravity of the moment." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The government had just unveiled a temporary scrapping of the federal sales tax on groceries, toys, diapers and some alcohol until February a "holiday" meant to alleviate the cost of living, but panned by critics as poorly conceived. She resigned Dec. 16, moments after another top minister, Sean Fraser, told reporters he wouldn't seek another term in office. Trudeau had forever insisted hed lead his Liberal Party into a fourth election a rare feat had he pulled it off. But even if he was known for grinding out underdog wins on the strength of relentless campaigning, Trudeau never got the chance to fight another one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He will leave office after a tenure pockmarked by ethical scandals and defined in part by run-ins with Trump. After vaulting his party to power in 2015, Trudeau assembled a Cabinet with an equal number of women and men, pushed to legalize marijuana and to expand child benefits for families and set the stage for an ambitious climate agenda. But he also faced repeated questions about his personal judgment, following ethical violations and revelations that he wore blackface on multiple occasions during early adulthood. In the summer of 2023, as polls went south, he and his wife Sophie Gregoire Trudeau announced their separation. And he faced a punishing political climate, with inflation that engulfed much of the Western world weighing on Canadians at grocery checkouts and the gas pumps. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Poilievre, leader of the Conservatives for the past two years, pounced on every mistake and weakness. Meanwhile, Trudeaus government kept repeating that it had the backs of any Canadians feeling the pinch on the economy, but nothing turned the tide. Endless economic anxiety Three words played a pivotal role in Trudeau's downfall: rising interest rates. In March 2022, the Bank of Canada started ratcheting up rates that had hit rock bottom in the early days of the pandemic. They topped out at 5 percent in July of 2023. The rates stunned homeowners whose mortgage interest payments rose in kind. For years, Liberals relied on nonpartisan economic analysis to back their fiscal policy. They ran large budget deficits, shoveled taxpayer money into social programs and lured global automakers with billions in tax incentives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each year Trudeau was in power, Canada's credit ratings scored at a AAA level, and economic growth compared well with G7 peers. Many mainstream economists agreed the country's fiscal position wasn't spiraling. But Canadians werent thinking about global rankings when they emerged from the pandemic. They were focused on their bank accounts. Seamus O'Regan, then minister of labor and seniors, implored his Cabinet colleagues to reflect deeply. "People are angry. You come out of [the pandemic]. You think you're carrying on," he told POLITICO in an interview last June. "And then inflation, interest rates, people are stretched. It's irritating. It's more than that. There's a deep anxiety. I think it's important that you at least step back and go, 'Why is that?' " As Liberals barreled ahead with a Covid recovery plan, dark clouds gathered in the form of rising interest rates. As anxiety spread, the polls responded to the angst of higher payments as thousands of homeowners renewed their loans. The Conservative Party took its first double-digit polling lead on July 25, 2023. Abacus Data gave the party 38 percent support, compared to 28 percent for Liberals. Poilievre campaigned seemingly non-stop, packing rallies across Canada and railing against the prime minister's record on just about every issue. Some pundits dismissed the Abacus survey as an outlier, typical of summertime polling when voters are enjoying vacations and tuning out politics. But in September, a Nanos Research survey for Royal LePage Canada showed 68 percent of mortgage payers were concerned about upcoming renewals. Fifty-five percent, barely a majority, were "confident that my income will allow me to absorb the higher interest rate." By October, every pollster was measuring a double-digit lead for the Conservatives. A sustained decline set in for Trudeau's Liberals. The 338Canada poll aggregator operated by Philippe J. Fournier pegs the current Tory lead at 25 percentage points nationwide and in Ontario, where 124 seats are up for grabs out of 343. By David Ljunggren OTTAWA (Reuters) -Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is increasingly likely to announce he intends to step down, though he has not made a final decision, a source familiar with Trudeau's thinking said on Sunday. The source spoke to Reuters after the Globe and Mail reported that Trudeau was expected to announce as early as Monday that he would quit as leader of Canada's ruling Liberal Party after nine years in office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The source requested anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly. Trudeau's departure would leave the party without a permanent head at a time when polls show the Liberals will badly lose to the official opposition Conservatives in an election that must be held by late October. Sources told the Globe and Mail that they did not know definitely when Trudeau would announce his plans to leave but said they expect it would happen before a emergency meeting of Liberal legislators on Wednesday. An increasing number of Liberal parliamentarians, alarmed by a series of gloomy polls, have publicly urged Trudeau to quit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The prime minister's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment outside regular business hours. The prime minister's regularly published schedule for Monday said he would participate virtually in a cabinet committee meeting on Canada-U.S. relations. It remains unclear whether Trudeau will leave immediately or stay on as prime minister until a new Liberal leader is selected, the Globe and Mail report added. CALLS TO RESIGN GROW Trudeau took over as Liberal leader in 2013 when the party was in deep trouble and had been reduced to third place in the House of Commons for the first time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If he does resign, it would likely spur fresh calls for a quick election to put in place a stable government able to deal with the administration of President-elect Donald Trump for the next four years. The prime minister has discussed with Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc whether he would be willing to step in as interim leader and prime minister, one source told the newspaper, adding that this would be unworkable if LeBlanc plans to run for the leadership. Trudeau, 53, had been able to fend off Liberal legislators worried about the polls and the loss of safe seats in two special elections. But calls for him to step aside have grown since December, when Trudeau tried to demote Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, one of his closest cabinet allies, after she pushed back against his proposals for more spending. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Freeland quit instead and penned a letter accusing Trudeau of "political gimmicks" rather than focusing on what was best for the country. Trudeau propelled the Liberals to power in 2015 promising "sunny ways" and a progressive agenda that promoted the rights of women and a promise to fight climate change. But the everyday realities of governing gradually wore him down and like many Western leaders, the need to deal with the effects of the pandemic ate up much of his time. Although Ottawa spent heavily to protect consumers and businesses, racking up record budget deficits, this provided little protection from public anger as prices soared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A botched immigration policy led to hundreds of thousands of arrivals, straining an already overheated housing market. (Reporting by Gursimran Kaur in Bengaluru; Writing by David Ljunggren; Editing by Rod Nickel, Tom Hogue and Lincoln Feast) (Bloomberg) -- Justin Trudeau will announce Monday morning he plans to resign as leader of Canadas Liberal Party, according to a person familiar with the matter, triggering a contest to replace him as prime minister. Most Read from Bloomberg Trudeaus office has scheduled an announcement for 10:45 a.m. in Ottawa. He has been under pressure from elected lawmakers in his party to quit for months; that has only intensified since Chrystia Freeland, his finance minister, stepped down on Dec. 16, saying she and the prime minister were at odds on policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau will stay on as prime minister until his successor is chosen, said the person, speaking on condition they not be identified. After the split with Freeland, some of Trudeaus closest advisers held the view that the prime minister would be unable to survive the political fallout, people familiar with the matter told Bloomberg News. The news of his resignation was reported first by Canadian Broadcasting Corp. Freeland, new Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc and former Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney are seen by political observers as candidates to replace him. More than 20 Liberal members of parliament have publicly called for Trudeaus departure, and even more have said in private meetings that the prime minister has no choice but to leave. The Liberals have 153 seats in the House of Commons, including Trudeaus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The country could face instability, notably from an economic threat in the potential of a 25% US tariff on Canadian imports from the incoming administration, said a recent letter sent to the prime minister by Kody Blois, who leads a group of Liberal members from the four easternmost provinces. Simply put, time is of the essence, Blois said, adding that its not tenable for you to remain as the leader. The Canadian currency strengthened after an initial report by the Globe and Mail on Sunday that said Trudeaus resignation is likely. Traders may be buying the loonie on the view that the worst is over for Canadian politics after all the recent uncertainty, said Ken Cheung, a strategist at Mizuho Bank. The prime minister has largely disappeared from public view since Freeland posted her stinging resignation letter. Trudeau spent much of the holidays at a ski resort in western Canada and hasnt spoken with reporters since returning to Ottawa. If Trudeau, 53, does announce he intends to step down after nine years in power, it will kick off an internal party tussle over how to choose a successor. If he resigns immediately, the Liberals would likely select an interim leader from within its elected caucus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, its also possible Trudeau will decide to stay in office while Liberal Party members conduct a leadership race to choose his successor. The timeline for a party contest would have to be very tight, given the major opposition parties have said they intend to vote against the government in the next sitting of the House. Parliamentary experts have said the government may only have until March before it would face a vote of non-confidence in the House. The rules of the leadership race would also be hotly contested within the party. Freeland has been calling Liberal lawmakers and is widely expected to run for leader if the chance arises. Carney, the former governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, may also run if its an open contest that doesnt favor sitting lawmakers, said one person familiar with the matter. Trudeau had earlier courted Carney to enter cabinet as finance minister, a move that eventually led to Freelands resignation. Carney is the chair of Brookfield Asset Management and Bloomberg Inc., among other roles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Members of Trudeaus cabinet who are frequently mentioned in discussions about the party leadership include Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly; Industry Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne; and Anita Anand, the minister in charge of transportation and internal trade. All will have to calculate whether now is the right time to helm the Liberals. A new survey by Nanos Research, taken in late December, has the Conservative Party extending a huge lead going into an election year. --With assistance from Ruth Carson. (Updates with fourth paragraph on potential Liberal leadership candidates. An earlier version was corrected to include attribution to CBC in headline.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau resigned Monday, ahead of general elections later this year in which the ruling Liberal Party is polling badly and amid tensions with President-elect Trump, who has threatened steep tariffs on the country over border policies. I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, Trudeau said. Last night, I asked the president of the Liberal Party to begin that process. This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if Im having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau, 53, has served as prime minister for nine years and as Liberal leader for 11 years, but he was facing mounting crises and troubling polls against the Conservative Party led by Pierre Poilievre. Among the recent blows to Trudeau were the public resignation of a top minister, a confrontation with the U.S. over Trumps threats of 25 percent tariffs, a conflict over immigration, and the high cost of living. The move comes ahead of an emergency meeting of Liberal legislators Wednesday. Trudeau said Canadas governor general has granted his request that a new session of Parliament is needed, and the Parliament will be in prorogue until March 24. Prorogue indicates suspending a session of Parliament without formally dissolving it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision will set off a competitive leadership race to replace Trudeau as the Liberals leader ahead of general elections and amid the Conservative Partys gains in popularity. General elections are expected to take place on or before Oct. 20. Im a fighter. Every bone in my body has always told me to fight because I care deeply about Canadians. I care deeply about this country, and I will always be motivated by what is in the best interest of Canadians, Trudeau said. And the fact is, despite best efforts to work through it, Parliament has been paralyzed for months after what has been the longest session of a minority Parliament in Canadian history. Thats why, this morning, I advised the governor general that we need a new session of Parliament, she has granted this request, and the House will now be prorogued until March 24. Talk of Trudeau resigning ramped up after the resignation of Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland in mid-December; Freeland criticized Trudeau as pursuing costly political gimmicks in the face of Trumps tariff threats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among Trudeaus proposals were a two-month sales tax holiday and 250 Canadian dollar ($175) rebates to Canadians. Trump has trolled Trudeau as Canadas governor, sarcastically calling Americas northern neighbor and NATO ally the 51st state. Trump threatened 25 percent tariffs on Canada over demands for the country to do more to root out any illegal immigration and drug trafficking across the border such instances are a fraction of the total numbers of illegal immigration and drug crossings that largely come across Americas southern border. Trump welcomed Trudeau to his Florida residence Mar-a-Lago in the wake of the tariff threats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Updated at 11:45 a.m. EST Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. TORONTO (AP) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation Monday after nearly a decade in power, bowing to rising discontent over his leadership and growing turmoil within his government signaled by the abrupt departure of his finance minister. Trudeau, the latest incumbent to be driven out by rising voter dissatisfaction worldwide, said it became clear to him that he cannot "be the leader during the next elections due to internal battles. He planned to stay on as prime minister until a new leader of the Liberal Party is chosen. I dont easily back down faced with a fight, especially a very important one for our party and the country. But I do this job because the interests of Canadians and the well being of democracy" are "something that I hold dear," said Trudeau, who was initially teary-eyed at the announcement outside his official residence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said Parliament, which had been due to resume Jan. 27, would be suspended until March 24. The timing will allow for a Liberal Party leadership race. All three main opposition parties have said they plan to topple the Liberal Party in a no-confidence vote when Parliament resumes, so a spring election after the Liberals pick a new leader was almost assured. The Liberal Party of Canada is an important institution in the history of our great country and democracy. A new prime minister and leader of the Liberal Party will carry its values and ideals into that next election, Trudeau said. I am excited to see that process unfold in the months ahead. Trudeau came to power in 2015 after 10 years of Conservative Party rule and was initially hailed for returning the country to its liberal past. But the 53-year-old scion of one of Canadas most famous prime ministers became deeply unpopular with voters in recent years over a range of issues, including the soaring cost of food and housing, and surging immigration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking in a recorded message posted on X, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre said Canadians desperate to turn the page on this dark chapter in our history might be relieved that Trudeau is leaving. "But what has really changed? Every Liberal MP in power today and every potential Liberal leadership contender fighting for the top job helped Justin Trudeau break the country over the last nine years. Other opposition leaders added their own criticism, including Jagmeet Singh, who leads the leftist New Democratic Party. It doesnt matter who the next Liberal is. Theyve let you down. They do not deserve another chance, said Singh, who propped up Trudeaus party for years. The president of the Liberal party, Sachit Mehra, said party members were immensely grateful to Trudeau for delivering transformational progress for Canadians, including $10-a-day child care, dental care and a national climate plan. Mehra said he would call a meeting this week to begin selecting a new leader. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The political upheaval comes at a difficult moment for Canada internationally. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to impose 25% tariffs on all Canadian goods if the government does not stem what Trump calls a flow of migrants and drugs in the U.S. even though far fewer of them cross into the U.S. from Canada than from Mexico, which Trump has also threatened. Canada is a major exporter of oil and natural gas to the U.S., which also relies on its northern neighbor for steel, aluminum and automobiles. After Trudeau's announcement, Trump, who for weeks has referred to Canada as the 51st state, did so again and incorrectly claimed on social media that the prime minister resigned because Canada relies on subsidies from the U.S. to stay afloat. Trudeau kept publicly mum in recent weeks, despite intensifying pressure for him to step down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His long silence following this political drama speaks volumes about the weakness of his current position, said Daniel Beland, a political science professor at McGill University in Montreal. Canadas former finance minister, Chrystia Freeland, announced her resignation from Trudeaus Cabinet on Dec. 16, criticizing some of Trudeaus economic priorities in the face of Trumps threats. The move, which came shortly after the housing minister quit, stunned the country and raised questions about how much longer the increasingly unpopular Trudeau could stay in his job. Freeland and Trudeau had disagreed about two recently announced policies: a temporary sales tax holiday on goods ranging from childrens clothes to beer, and plans to send every citizen a check for $250 Canadian ($174). Freeland, who was also deputy prime minister, said Canada could not afford costly political gimmicks." Our country is facing a grave challenge, Freeland wrote in her resignation letter. That means keeping our fiscal powder dry today, so we have the reserves we may need for a coming tariff war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau had planned to run for a fourth term despite his party's displeasure. Prime ministers in Canada can stay in office as long as their government or party has the confidence of a majority in the House of Commons, but no Canadian prime minister in more than a century has won four straight terms. Trudeau's party recently suffered upsets in special elections in two districts in Toronto and Montreal that it has held for years. And based on the latest polls, his chances for success looked slim. In the latest poll by Nanos, the Liberals trailed Conservatives 47% to 21%. Over his long tenure, Trudeau embraced an array of causes favored by his liberal base. He spoke in favor of immigration at a time other countries were trying to tighten their borders. He championed diversity and gender equality, appointing a Cabinet that was equal parts men and women. He legalized cannabis. His efforts to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental protection were criticized by both the right and left. He levied a tax on carbon emissions and rescued a stalled pipeline expansion project to get more of Albertas oil to international markets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fewer people died from COVID-19 in Canada than elsewhere, and his government provided massive financial support. But animosity grew among those opposed to vaccine mandates. Flags with Trudeaus name and expletives became a common sight in rural regions. A combination of scandal and unpopular policies damaged his prospects over time. Trudeaus father swept to power in 1968 and led Canada for almost 16 years, becoming a storied name in the countrys history, most notably by opening its doors wide to immigrants. Pierre Trudeau was often compared to John F. Kennedy and remains one of the few Canadian politicians who are recognized in the U.S. Born while his father was prime minister, the younger Trudeau became an international celebrity upon being elected. He appeared on the cover of America's Rolling Stone magazine under the headline Why Cant He Be Our President? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tall and trim, with movie-star looks, Justin Trudeau channeled the star power if not quite the political heft of his father. He became the second-youngest prime minister in Canadas history, and rivals said his age was a liability when he first sought office. But he won a sweeping mandate in a come-from-behind victory in 2015. Trudeau is a former teacher, nightclub bouncer and snowboard instructor who has three children with his ex-wife, a former model and TV host. Justin Trudeau said on Monday he plans to step down as leader of his governing Liberal Party and as Canada's prime minister after nearly a decade as the head of the government. Trudeau made the announcement in a speech from his Rideau Cottage residence in Ottawa, after weeks of mounting pressure from inside and outside his party. He will continue on as prime minister - a position he has held for nine years - until a new party leader is chosen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide, competitive process," he said. Trudeau said he had asked the governor general to prorogue, or suspend, parliament until March 24. She granted the request this morning, he added. The suspension will allow for the Liberals to hold the leadership race to replace Trudeau. "This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if I'm having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election." Trudeau, 53, has led the Liberal Party for 11 years and was celebrated by many progressives around the world as a beacon of hope when he became prime minister in November 2015. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is credited with leading Canada forward on issues like the climate crisis, gender equality and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. But several political scandals, such as suppressed corruption investigations, tarnished his image at time when Canada's economy was also struggling. Criticism of the prime minister has increased sharply of late, with people accusing him of failing to contain high prices or provide enough housing in the country. The New Democratic Party, with which the Liberal Party had previously worked to pass legislation, withdrew its support in him in September and threatened a vote of no confidence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau's minority government was then dealt a major blow by the resignation last month of finance minister Chrystia Freeland after the two close allies clashed over economic policy. A general election must be held in Canada by October 20, but an early election could be forced, for example by a vote of no confidence. The Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre, is currently polling at around 40%, with the Liberal Party hovering around 20%. On 5 January 2025, ILO country director Tuomo Poutiainen engaged in a strategic dialogue with BGMEA administrator Anwar Hossain. The meeting held at the BGMEA Complex was also joined by ANM Saifuddin, a member of the BGMEA Support Committee. The conversation also delved into the ongoing initiatives led by the ILO, notably the Better Work Bangladesh programme, which aims to enhance working conditions and ensure the occupational safety of garment workers. Poutiainen and Hossain stressed the importance of sustained endeavours to establish safer, more equitable, and sustainable workplaces within the garment sector. The dialogue explored avenues for future cooperation between the ILO and BGMEA. This includes capacity building congruent with international norms such as the European Unions Due Diligence Directive that holds companies responsible for human rights and environmental standards throughout their supply chains. Adopted by the EU in April 2024, the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) represents an important move towards establishing more accountable global supply chains, aiming to eliminate human rights violations, labour exploitation, and environmental harm. Hossain also showcased the industrys advancements in workplace safety, workers' rights, and environmental sustainability. He reaffirmed the sector's dedication to ongoing improvements in these areas. The BGMEA representatives requested that the ILO consider projects to enhance social dialogue and foster harmonious industrial relations within Bangladesh's RMG sector. They also called for collaboration on workforce skill development in response to AI and technological advancements. A study spearheaded by the Bangladesh Labour Foundation (BLF) and conducted by BRAC University scholars found that technological enhancements in Bangladeshs RMG sector have led to a 30.58% decline in employment opportunities. Last month, Hossain met with several ambassadors including Michael Miller, ambassador and head of the delegation of the EU to Bangladesh. During the meeting, he stated that the government, along with stakeholders such as the ILO, is actively collaborating to improve labour rights and welfare standards. The talks revolved around important trade matters, emphasising sustainability, bolstering EU-Bangladesh partnerships, and fostering cooperation between them to advance the country's garment industry. Both parties also discussed potential collaborations on corporate sustainability, EU due diligence regulations, and aligning Bangladesh's RMG sector with new EU laws. PORT SHELDON TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) Consumers Energy has announced a new partnership with a Canadian company to address the millions of tons of impounded coal ash left behind by the J.H. Campbell Power Plant north of Holland. The Michigan utility company is partnering with Ashcor USA, a subsidiary of Ashcor Technologies which is based in Calgary, Alberta. Ashcor uses its own patented technology to transform coal ash into a high-grade cement replacement material one with a much smaller carbon output. Were doing the right thing as we make a just transition away from coal as a fuel source for electricity and that includes fulfilling our environmental responsibilities at the Campbell Generating Complex, Norm Kapala, vice president of generation operations at Consumers, said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While our focus today is on meeting power needs in a more environmentally sustainable way, we are also committed to removing 60 years of ash deposits that will be beneficially repurposed, the statement continued. MPSC approves Consumers plan to go coal-free by 2025 The 2,000-acre Campbell site in Port Sheldon Township opened in the 1960s, generating nearly 1,500 megawatts of electricity for the surrounding area. But the power plants days were numbered when Consumers Energy announced a shift toward renewable resources. In 2021, Consumers announced it was speeding up its plans to go coal-free, moving the target date from 2039 to 2025. Tentatively, all three units at the Campbell plant will be shut down by May. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Are submarine cables through Lake Michigan the best way to help Michigan go green? Ashcor will build its own facility on the site to manufacture its cement substitute. The company expects the facility to be up and running by the start of 2027. This will be our third (reclaimed ash management) facility, and we are eager to incorporate our operational expertise into a state-of-the-art design, tailored to J.H. Campbells site and the market demands of the Great Lakes area, Ashcor President John Tiberi said in a statement. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The News Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has resigned as the countrys ruling Liberal Party leader. A once-feted scion of Canadian politics, his exit comes amid intensified political headwinds after his finance minister and closest political ally abruptly quit last month. Trudeau, who said he will remain as prime minister until a new party leader is chosen, has faced growing calls from within his party to step down; polls show the Liberals are set to lose this years election to the Conservative opposition. It has become obvious to me with the internal battles that I cannot be the one to carry the Liberal standard into the next election, Trudeau said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His exit comes as Canada faces tariff threats from US President-elect Donald Trump. The Republican and his allies have repeatedly taunted Trudeau in recent weeks, with Trump mocking Canada as the 51st state. SIGNALS From sunny ways to gloomy skies Sources: The Independent, CNN The son of a former premier, Justin Trudeau ascended to head the Liberal Party in 2013, leading them to power in 2015 by promising sunny ways ahead. The young, fresh face of leftist Canadian politics, Trudeau became a poster-boy for liberal causes and progressive issues, The Independent wrote. He legalized recreational cannabis and addressed historic abuses against Indigenous populations. But like so many world governments Canadas post-COVID years have been marked by growing economic discontent, CNN noted, and the opposition Conservatives have risen in the polls. A viral encounter last year between Trudeau and a steel worker encapsulated Canadians frustrations: Youre not really doing anything for us, Justin, the man said. A self-described underdog accepts defeat Source: Global News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Justin Trudeaus long tenure in power belied his desire to be cast as an underdog, analysts said; Trudeau described himself as a fighter in his resignation speech. As prime minister, he overcame multiple challenges and scandals to win re-election in 2019 and 2021, but being chronically underestimated and winning anyway does seem to have side effects, Global News Alex Boutilier wrote. The empathy Trudeau often exuded while campaigning didnt translate to governance, and there was a perception that he was out of touch with everyday Canadians concerns. Trudeaus focus on big-picture priorities including climate change and addressing systemic inequality became increasingly difficult to sustain while hundreds of thousands are struggling to keep the lights on, Boutilier noted. Trudeaus exit underscores uncertain times ahead Source: The Globe and Mail The Liberals and Canada as a whole are staring at political oblivion, Globe and Mail columnist Andrew Coyne wrote. As Trudeaus fellow party members wrangle for power, the opposition Conservatives could put forward a motion of no confidence, and this years election may come early. The country is crying out for leadership, Coyne wrote, adding that the turmoil raises larger concerns over Canadas electoral system, which revolves around the cult of party leaders. The Liberals in particular, he wrote, must ask themselves: How are we to rebuild from the ruins? Why did we allow a runaway leader to bring us to such a pass?... And: how do we make sure this happens again? Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to announce his resignation as leader of the Liberal Party of Canada on or before Jan. 8, Canada's Globe and Mail reported on Jan. 5, citing three unnamed sources. It remains unclear if Trudeau will remain as prime minister on an interim basis as a new Liberal Party leader is selected, or whether he will step down immediately. Trudeau, who has faced slumping poll numbers over the past year, has faced increased pressure from Liberal Members of Parliament to resign following the abrupt resignation of Trudeau's finance minister, Chrystia Freeland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Freeland, who also served as deputy prime minister, resigned from the ministerial post on Dec. 16 after she was told by Trudeau that she would be replaced imminently. The decision drew heavy criticism from government MPs, with dozens of his parliamentary caucus members calling for his resignation. Trudeau, who has served as prime minister since 2015, is expected to resign ahead of his party's national caucus meeting on Wednesday, and may do so as early as Jan. 6, the Globe and Mail reported. Trudeau, who holds a minority government in Canada's parliament, lost a key partner in propping up the Liberal government in September, with the announcement by New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh that he would "rip up" a supply and confidence agreement with the government. Canada's next federal election is scheduled for October 2025, but will likely occur in the next few months as opposition parties have vowed to vote "no confidence" in the government during the next sitting of parliament which is scheduled to begin Jan. 27. Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre has consistently polled far ahead of Trudeau in public opinion polls and would likely win a majority government if an election were held today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Canada, under Trudeau, has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine providing 19.5 billion Canadian dollars ($13.5 billion) in assistance for Ukraine, including 4.5 billion Canadian dollars ($3.1 billion) in military aid. Freeland, who is of Ukrainian background and fluent in Ukrainian, served as the government's most vocal supporter of Ukraine. Previous to her career in politics, Freeland served as Moscow bureau chief for the Financial Times. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine launches new offensive in Russias Kursk Oblast, mixed reports surface on outcome Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Embattled Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau could resign as soon as this week, according to local media, after his fragile leadership was tested by the resignation of a prominent Cabinet minister last month. The Globe and Mail newspaper was among the outlets reporting on Monday that Trudeau would likely announce his resignation before a major meeting of his Liberal Party on Wednesday, citing sources close to the prime minister. It is not yet clear whether he will resign only as party leader or also as prime minister. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 53-year-old has been leader of the Liberal Party for 11 years and prime minister since the end of 2015. But criticism of Trudeau has long been simmering and he has only been able to form minority governments since 2019. Chrystia Freeland, Canada's finance minister and one of Trudeau's closest allies, announced her resignation on December 16. Freeland was considered the most powerful minister in Trudeau's Cabinet and her exit over differences on economic policy dealt his unpopular government a major blow. Trudeau's reputation as a progressive superstar has long since fallen: Although he is credited with leading Canada forward on issues like the climate crisis, gender equality and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, scandals such as suppressed corruption investigations have tarnished his image amid a tough economic landscape. Trudeau's government had already been on the ropes before Freeland's departure. The left-leaning New Democratic Party (NDP) said in September it was withdrawing support for Trudeau's minority government. The deal between the parties had seen the NDP lend its votes to help get some Liberal initiatives passed through parliament in Ottawa. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday, saying he intends to step down from the top job and as the leader of Canadas ruling Liberal Party once a new party leader is chosen. I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its new leader, the 53-year-old leader told reporters at a news conference in Ottawa on Monday. Canadas parliament will be suspended until March 24 while a new Liberal Party leader is chosen, he also said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau added that he has one regret failing to reform Canadas election process, ahead of a general election expected this fall. If I have one regret, particularly as we approach this election well, probably many regrets that I will think of, the outgoing leader said. But I do wish wed been able to change the way we elect our governments in this country so that people could simply choose a second choice, or a third choice on the same ballot. How did we get here? Trudeau, leader of the Liberal Party for 11 years and prime minister for nine, was facing a mounting set of crises, from Donald Trumps tariff threats to the resignation of key allies and disastrous opinion polls. His resignation could be seen as choosing to jump before he is pushed, ahead of a general election to be held later this year that he is widely expected to lose. Trudeau took the Liberals to power in 2015, promising sunny ways for Canada. He championed progressive issues like combating climate change and addressing historic abuses against Indigenous peoples, but the latter years of his premiership have been marked by rising economic discontent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A viral confrontation with a steel worker, who criticized Trudeau for not addressing the high cost of living, captured the growing discontent among Canadians. Youre not really doing anything for us, Justin, the worker remarked, highlighting a sentiment that resonated widely. Trudeaus government was also rocked last year by the surprise resignation of Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, just hours before she was due to deliver her annual fiscal update. In a blistering letter of resignation, she criticized Trudeaus political gimmicks, likely referring to a two-month sales tax holiday and 250 Canadian dollar ($175) rebates for most workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Freeland said Canada could ill afford these policies, seen as a pre-election handout to claw back some voters, and coming as the country faces the serious prospect of huge tariffs which could be levied by the incoming Trump administration. US President-elect Donald Trump, set to return to the White House on January 20, has said he will sign an executive order imposing a 25% tariff on all products coming into the US from Canada. Trump has also taken to belittling Trudeau and the country of Canada on social media, referring to the prime minister as the governor of the Great State of Canada. What comes next? The Liberal Party national executive, which controls leadership issues, is scheduled to meet this week, likely after the caucus. Suspending parliament is designed to give the party time to choose a new leader. Possible replacements include the former governor of both the Bank of England and Bank of Canada Mark Carney, foreign minister Melanie Joly, and former deputy prime minister Chrystia Freeland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The hope is that a new party leader could bring the Liberals out of their funk, before a general election set to be held on or before October 20. Current polls show Trudeaus Liberal Party behind the opposition Conservative Party, led by the firebrand Pierre Poilievre. This country deserves a real choice in the next election and it has become clear to me that if Im having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election, said Trudeau on Monday. Trudeau was elected three times, most recently in 2021, when he remained in power but lost his governing majority. Since then, Poilievres Conservative Party has built a lead over the Liberal Party of more than 20% in national polling averages. Trudeau told reporters on Monday that Poilievres conservative vision is not the right one for Canadians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stopping the fight against climate change doesnt make sense. Backing off on the values and strength and diversity that Canada has always, always, worked to pull itself together on is not the right path for the country. Attacking journalists, the CBC institutions, thats not what Canadians need in this moment. We need an ambitious, optimistic view of the future and Pierre Poilievre is not offering that, he said. What others are saying Reacting to Trudeaus resignation Monday, President-elect Trump doubled down on the idea that Canada and the US should merge. Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State. The United States can no longer suffer the massive Trade Deficits and Subsidies that Canada needs to stay afloat. Justin Trudeau knew this, and resigned, he said on Truth Social. If Canada merged with the U.S., there would be no Tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be TOTALLY SECURE from the threat of the Russian and Chinese Ships that are constantly surrounding them. Together, what a great Nation it would be!!! he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Poilievre, who has already found currency with the MAGA base, bolstering his position as a potential candidate for this years general election amid an incoming Trump administration, also seized on Trudeaus resignation to make an offer to Canadian voters. Canadians can take back control of their lives and their country, Poilievre said in a video post on X. Take back control of our border. Take back control of immigration. Take back control of spending, deficits and inflation. Well cap spending, axe taxes, reward work, build homes, uphold family, stop crime, secure borders, rearm our forces, restore our freedom and put Canada first, he said. And Freeland, a possible contender to replace Trudeau, who said in December that she and Trudeau had found ourselves at odds about the best path forward for Canada, thanked him for his service on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I thank Justin Trudeau for his years of service to Canada and Canadians. I wish him and his family the very best, she wrote on X. Trudeau said at Mondays press conference that he had hoped Freeland would continue as his deputy, but she chose otherwise, declining to provide more detail on their conversations. CNNs Lex Harvey and Sana Noor Haq contributed reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Justin Trudeau is planning to announce his resignation as early as Monday as the leader of the Liberal Party in Canada, according to reports. The Canadian prime minister will confirm he is leaving his post before a key national Liberal caucus meeting on Wednesday, sources told The Globe and Mail and Reuters. Mr Trudeaus departure would leave the party without a permanent head at a time when polls show the Liberals will badly lose to the opposition Conservatives in an election that must be held by late October. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Mr Trudeau has made no final decision about his resignation, a source familiar with his thinking told Reuters. It remains unclear whether Mr Trudeau will leave immediately or stay on as prime minister until a new leader is selected. Since December, calls by members of his party for the embattled leader to step aside have grown amid poor showings in the opinion polls and fears over Donald Trumps proposed tariff scheme. Before Christmas, he faced a mini-revolt by 15 MPs following the shock resignation of Chrystia Freeland, the former deputy prime minister and the prime ministers long-time ally, who cited policy clashes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She accused Mr Trudeau of political gimmicks rather than focusing on what was best for the country. Botched immigration policy Mr Trudeau, 53, who has led the Liberals since 2013, swept to power in 2015 and led his party to two more ballot box victories in 2019 and 2021, armed with a progressive agenda focused on climate change and womens rights. But this election year, he trails his main rival, Pierre Poilievre, leader of the Conservatives, by 20 points in public opinion polls. The expected end to Mr Trudeaus nine years in power comes as Mr Trump is about to re-enter the White House, which will bring major uncertainty between trading partners that share the longest border in the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, Mr Trump threatened to impose 25 per cent tariffs on all imports from Canada and Mexico, accusing both countries of failing to stop illegal migration. The move by Canadas largest trading partner could stifle its economy at a time when Canadians are complaining that the cost of living and house prices have soared while unemployment sits at 7 per cent and the countrys healthcare system struggles. A botched immigration policy by the Liberals also led to hundreds of thousands of new arrivals, further straining the housing market, and sparking a major public backlash. Non-functioning parliament Mr Trudeaus resignation is likely to spur fresh calls for a quick election to put in place a stable government to deal with Mr Trumps incoming administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The prime minister has discussed with Dominic LeBlanc, the new finance minister, whether he would be willing to step in as interim leader and prime minister, one source told the Globe and Mail. They added that this arrangement would be unworkable if Mr LeBlanc planned to run for the leadership. Last week, former top civil servant Kevin Lynch, argued Mr Trudeaus government has squandered our fiscal advantage, hollowed out our military, shattered our immigration system and shown little interest in our anaemic productivity while economic, geopolitical and security threats to Canada rise to Defcon levels. Writing in the Globe and Mail, he blamed the prime minister for a non-functioning parliament which has been deadlocked for two months over the governments refusal to hand over documents relating to its failed green technology fund. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Justin Trudeau is expected to announce his resignation this week, according to reports. The Canadian Prime Minister, 53, may step down as early as Monday vacating the position of the head of Canadas ruling Liberal Party after nine years in office, a source told Reuters and the Globe and Mail. His departure would leave the party without a leader at a time when polls show the Liberals trailing the official opposition party. If he vacates, an election in Canada must be held by late October. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sources told the Globe and Mail that they did not know definitely when Trudeau would announce his plans to leave but said they expect it would happen before an emergency meeting of Liberal legislators on Wednesday. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to announce his resignation this week, according to reports (The Canadian Press) Trudeau has been under increasing pressure to resign, with more members of his party reportedly joining the effort to force him out after his deputy prime minister resigned and concerns about U.S. President-elect Donald Trumps proposed tariffs increase. In mid-December, Chrystia Freeland, the deputy prime minister and head of finance, unexpectedly resigned citing disagreements over the handling of Trumps suggested 25 percent tariffs on the country an issue that could damage the economy of both countries. The prime ministers office did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters, but his regularly published schedule for Monday said he would participate virtually in a cabinet committee meeting on Canada-U.S. relations. It remains unclear whether Trudeau will leave immediately or stay on as prime minister until a new Liberal leader is selected, the Globe and Mail added. Justin Trudeau said on Monday he plans to step down as leader of his governing Liberal Party and as Canada's prime minister after nearly a decade in power. Trudeau made the announcement in a speech from his Rideau Cottage residence in Ottawa, after weeks of mounting pressure from inside and outside his party. He will continue on as prime minister - a position he has held for nine years - until a new party leader is chosen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide, competitive process," he said. "This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if I'm having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election." Trudeau's minority government, already deeply unpopular, was dealt a major blow by the resignation of finance minister Chrystia Freeland last month after the two clashed over economic policy. A general election must be held in Canada by October 20. Late Friday afternoon, the line snaked around the entrance as patrons of the East Nashville bar Canvas entered to pay homage to its founder, Darek Wayne Tanner, who died earlier in the week at the age of 54. A crowd packed the venue and the experience felt like a family reunion, bringing regulars, former bartenders and people who had not regularly come since the bar moved in 2022 from its original location on Church Street in Nashvilles Midtown neighborhood. Tanner founded the bar in 2011, geared toward the LGBTQIA community and their allies, with a name intended to allow patrons to help define its character. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the memorial, speakers talked about Tanners piercing blue eyes, his mishaps on ladders and his eclectic taste in art. However, they touched on a common theme: Tanners kindness, courage and commitment to hospitality for his patrons. Canvas became a space for to rest, recharge and refocus I first entered Canvas a few days before I started working at The Tennessean in November 2014, and my husband and I met our first friends in Nashville. Celebration of life for East Nashville bar Canvas founder Darek Tanner on Jan. 3, 2025. We were weekly happy hour customers, but we also felt a kinship to the community being built there and continued to support the establishment even during the days of COVID re-openings in 2020 when bars were forced to reinvent themselves in the age of masks of social distancing. And we followed it to East Nashville in 2022. Any time Tanner was in the bar, he would stop the work he was doing for a moment to chat and talk about life and his vision for a welcoming space where patrons could be themselves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am reluctant anymore to use the word safe space, because over the last 10 years, Tennessee lawmakers annually have passed laws aimed at curbing the rights, dignity and existence of LGBTQIA people. Tanner understood that, and, for many, Canvas became a place to rest, recharge and refocus. In recent months due to the presidential election, I read numerous social media posts expressing dire fear at being LGBTQIA in a new age of Trump. Opinion: Nashville is a city of giants. To me, restaurateur Randy Rayburn was one of them. After years of progress in civil rights, the pushback often in the name of anti-wokeness created an existential threat for many in the community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats why the role of places like Tanners Canvas are so important. They build people up in a supportive community. Places that offer refuge for LGBTQIA community still matter Metro Council Member At-Large Olivia Hill, the first openly trans elected official in Tennessee, spoke at Tanners memorial and called on those gathered to end gatekeeping and divisions that keep them apart and, instead, seek unity. Nashville Metro Council Member At-Large Olivia Hill spoke at the celebration of life for East Nashville bar founder Darek Tanner on Jan. 3, 2025. Its a powerful message that I think Tanner would have appreciated. Last year, I wrote about the closing of the iconic Music City gay bar Trax and how this trend in closures is due to a mix of gentrification, the rise of dating apps and more open attitudes about the LGBTQIA community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A few months ago, Trax reopened in Nashvilles Wedgewood Houston neighborhood, and other venues continue to serve customers, including Frankie Js in Germantown, Peckers south of downtown, Tribe and Play in Midtown, and Lipstick Lounge in East Nashville. These places still matter. Canvas will continue even after Tanners death a testament to his defiance against oppressive rejection of peoples freedom to be who they are. Hopefully, that will inspire the community as a whole to emulate his courage, kindness and commitment even in the hardest of times. David Plazas is the director of opinion and engagement for the USA TODAY Network Tennessee. He is an editorial board member of The Tennessean. He hosts the Tennessee Voices videocast and curates the Tennessee Voices and Latino Tennessee Voices newsletters.. Call him at (615) 259-8063, email him at dplazas@tennessean.com or find him on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @davidplazas. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville Canvas founder built a kind, courageous community | Opinion (Bloomberg) -- Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. reported faster-than-expected 15% revenue growth after the server assembly partner to Nvidia Corp. rode sustained demand for AI infrastructure. Most Read from Bloomberg Hon Hai, also the worlds largest maker of Apple Inc. iPhones, reported NT$2.13 trillion ($64.6 billion) of revenue for the past three months. December revenue rose 42%, helping the company known as Foxconn beat analyst expectations. It also forecast significant sales growth for the first quarter, helping its shares rise as much as 3.6% in Taipei, their biggest intraday gain in about two weeks. The company and other Taiwan AI hardware suppliers have enjoyed a boost from massive spending on servers for data centers by the biggest US tech firms like Alphabet Inc. and Microsoft Corp. But the lack of a compelling use case for AI so far has been making investors nervous about when the expansion might slow. Goldman Sachs analysts revised up their 2024 earnings estimate by 1% based on higher-than-expected December revenue. They also raised revenue estimates for this year and the following two years, citing higher AI server revenue. The sequential revenue growth in Cloud supports our positive view on the next generation rack-level AI servers shipment ramp-up, and general servers and networking equipment demand recovery, Goldman Sachs analysts wrote. Hon Hai expects revenue from its cloud business, which includes AI servers, to match sales from its iPhone-making division in 2025. Still, Citi analyst Carrie Liu warned in a note that the stock could experience near-term drag based on a first-quarter outlook from the company that seemed less than market estimates. The AI market is important for Hon Hais effort to diversify its business away from Apple, whose iPhones are seeing muted growth. Apple has historically accounted for over half of the Taiwanese companys sales. Hon Hai also aims to break into the electric vehicle market, though that venture has yet to have any meaningful effect on its earnings. The company reached out to Renault SA about a tie-up with Nissan Motor Co., which Renault owns 36% of. For now, that pursuit is on hold as Nissan and Honda Motor Co. negotiate a merger, Bloomberg News reported. (Updates with stock move and analyst comments) At capacity, a Fargo jail is asking for help from across the Minnesota border to house its inmates. The Clay County Board of Commissioners will consider a possible agreement with the Cass County Jail in Fargo at its Tuesday meeting. The Cass County Jail says it is at capacity and is asking to temporarily house inmates at Clay Countys jail in Moorhead. Under the agreement, Cass County would house up to ten inmates in Moorhead with the possibility of more later on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cass County Sheriff Jesse Jahner told InForum that the jail has seen higher numbers of inmates since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Cass County Jail will also reportedly ease the strain by adding 192 beds by the spring. WASHINGTON Four years after supporters of Donald Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol in support of his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss, members of Congress were under heavy security Monday as they certified Trump's 2024 election victory, ensuring the first president to face federal felony criminal charges will return to the White House in two weeks. On Jan. 20, Trump will walk through the Lower West Tunnel the location of some of the worst violence of the attack on Jan. 6, 2021 to take the oath of office as the 47th president of the United States. Trump, who himself faced four felony charges in connection with Jan. 6 and his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss, has vowed to pardon some untold number of Jan. 6 defendants when he takes office. But details of Trump's plans are uncertain even as the final days of President Joe Biden's term tick away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 1,580 defendants have been charged and about 1,270 have been convicted in a sprawling investigation that has resulted in more than 660 prison sentences, according to statistics released Monday by the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia. Prison sentences have ranged from a few days behind bars to 22 years in federal prison, a sentence imposed on former Proud Boys chairman Enrique Tarrio after he was convicted of seditious conspiracy. Hundreds more Jan. 6 defendants have been sentenced to probation, most of whom were convicted of low-level offenses like unlawful parading. The scene outside the Capitol in Washington on Saturday. In September, the federal government declared the Electoral College certification a National Special Security Event, heightening the level of security at the Capitol. Though there were no major protests Monday, the government put severe security measures in place that will remain as law enforcement agencies deal with other upcoming events, including funeral events for former President Jimmy Carter and Trumps inauguration on Jan. 20. On Saturday morning, about 36 hours before a snowstorm hit Washington, workers at the Capitol were placing additional layers of high fencing around the Capitol grounds, including on the west front, which Trump supporters took over during the Capitol attack four years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump, like many of his fellow Republicans, underwent a massive shift in his rhetoric since the Jan. 6 attack, from calling the Capitol breach a "heinous attack" in 2021 to describing it as a "day of love" last year. The effort to rewrite the history of Jan. 6 has been aided by numerous conspiracy theories that Trump allies on Capitol Hill have propagated. The president-elect said on "Meet the Press" last month that Jan. 6 defendants were subject to a very nasty system and that he would be acting very quickly on Jan. 6 pardons. Trump has said there may be some exceptions to his Jan. 6 pardons if somebody was radical, crazy, but he did not rule out pardoning people who had admitted assaulting police officers. The Trump transition team has said pardons will be issued case by case, but Trump has said the vast majority of Jan. 6 defendants should not be in jail. Police cars block parts of Pennsylvania Avenue near the U.S. Capitol as barricades are erected on the National Mall on Sunday. The U.S. attorney's office said that just eight pretrial defendants remain in jail in Washington, while all the other incarcerated Jan. 6 defendants are serving the sentences imposed after their convictions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While more misdemeanor cases against low-level Jan. 6 defendants seem unlikely in a Trump administration, it is not yet clear how pending cases against people accused of assaulting law enforcement officers will be handled. Online sedition hunters who have already aided the FBI in hundreds of Jan. 6 cases say more than 200 people suspected of committing assaults on law enforcement officers or members of the media have been identified but have not yet been arrested. Among them are more than 60 people whose images are featured on the FBI website that lists them as wanted for assault. Biden implored lawmakers Sunday to speak truthfully about the Capitol attack, in which more than 140 police officers were injured and after which some law enforcement officers died, at an event with newly elected Democratic lawmakers. Now, its your duty to tell the truth, to remember what happened and not let Jan. 6th be rewritten, Biden said. Its one of the toughest days in American history. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com U.S. Capitol Police Chief Thomas Manger is questioning what message would be sent to officers across the country if rioters who stormed the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, are pardoned. What message does that send? Manger told The Washington Post on Sunday, a day before the fourth anniversary of the attack. What message does that send to police officers across this nation, if someone doesnt think that a conviction for an assault or worse against a police officer is something that should be upheld, given what we ask police officers to do every day? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the interview, Manger, who was hired after supporters of President-elect Trump breached the Capitol in an attempt to stop the certification of the 2020 election results, declined to directly comment about Trumps promise to pardon many of the Jan. 6 defendants once he returns to office. Trump has vowed to pardon Jan. 6 defendants within the first hour or even nine minutes of returning to the White House. Manger argued that the focus should be on police officers who are asked to do the things that theyre asked to do, and the community supporting them when theyre hurt, injured, assaulted or killed. More than 100 police officers were injured during the attack. One Capitol Police officer died of a stroke a day after suffering injuries on Jan. 6, and four others died by suicide in the days and months after. Manger spoke with the Post ahead of Mondays certification of the 2024 election results, which will solidify Trumps victory on the fourth anniversary of the attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police will be on high alert for the certification and other high-profile events in Washington, including former President Carters funeral and Inauguration Day on Jan. 20. Former Capitol Police Sgt. Aquilino Gonell, who has become a fierce critic of Trump, is spending the anniversary fighting against the potential pardons. He detailed the beating he suffered on Jan. 6 in a new op-ed and said its devastating that Trump could erase the justice law enforcement sought. Trump also has threatened retribution against his political enemies, particularly those who opposed and investigated his role in the riot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawmakers like Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) say they arent worried, but Gonell said hes concerned. In the Post interview, Manger emphasized that police are better prepared for political violence than they were four years ago and the public should expect a peaceful transfer of power. He also highlighted how no police officer wants to have to assess a persons political belief, arguing that the public should back its law enforcement officials, no matter their political affiliation. I just think that theres a line that you cross when you assault a police officer, injure a police officer, kill a police officer, that it should be looked at very carefully, because pardoning someone who does something like that sends a message to every single law enforcement officer in this country that you may or may not really matter, depending on someones political outlook or depending on what you were involved with involves the wrong persons family, Manger told the Post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 first former president to be convicted of a felony is now also the first convicted felon to be elected as president. Donald Trump won reelection on November 5, paving the way for his return to the White Houseas well as the end or postponement of the criminal cases against him. The extent to which those cases also paved the way for his return to the White House will be a topic of debate for years. One plausible argument is that the sense that Trump was being persecuted strengthened his support; another is that the failure to bring cases sooner and finish them deprived voters of complete information. Both may be true. A judge indicated on January 3 that he would sentence Trump on January 10 for his conviction on charges related to paying hush money to Stormy Daniels, but would grant the president-elect an unconditional discharge, which avoids probation or jail time and does not require Trump to meet any further qualifications, such as steady employment or not reoffending. This rejects Trumps attempt to have the case thrown out and means he remains a felon, but otherwise closes out the matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This was the only live criminal matter facing Trump. Federal cases against Trump related to attempting to subvert the 2020 election and hoarding classified documents at Mar-a-Lago were both dismissed at the Justice Departments request in late 2024. The documents case, long considered the most straightforward, was bottled up by a Trump-appointed judge on dubious procedural grounds. The election-subversion case took a detour to the Supreme Court, where a conservative majority ran down the clock before ruling that a president has very broad immunity for most acts done as president. An election-subversion case in Fulton County, Georgia, is in indefinite limbo after a panel of state judges on December 19 removed District Attorney Fani Willis from the case, citing an appearance of impropriety in her relationship with a special prosecutor on the case. What follows is a summary of the major legal cases against Trump, assessments of the gravity of the charges, and a prognosis for each. This guide will be updated as necessary. New York State: Fraud In the fall of 2022, New York Attorney General Letitia James filed a civil suit against Trump, his adult sons, and his former aide Allen Weisselberg, alleging a years-long scheme in which Trump fraudulently reported the value of properties in order to either lower his tax bill or improve the terms of his loans, all with an eye toward inflating his net worth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When? Justice Arthur Engoron ruled on February 16 that Trump must pay $355 million plus interest, the calculated size of his ill-gotten gains from fraud. The judge had previously ruled against Trump and his co-defendants in late September 2023, concluding that many of the defendants claims were clearly fraudulentso clearly that he didnt need a trial to hear them. How grave was the allegation? Fraud is fraud, and in this case, the sum of the fraud stretched into the hundreds of millionsbut compared with some of the other legal matters in which Trump is embroiled, this is a little pedestrian. The case was also civil rather than criminal. But although the stakes are lower for the nation, they remain high for Trump: The size of the penalty appears to be larger than Trump can easily pay, and he also faces a three-year ban on operating his company. What happens now? On March 25, the day he was supposed to post bond, an appeals court reduced the amount he must post from more than $464 million to $175 million. Trump has appealed the case. In a September hearing, New York appeals-court judges seemed skeptical of the case against Trump and sympathetic to his arguments. They have not yet ruled. Manhattan: Defamation and Sexual Assault Although these other cases are all brought by government entities, Trump also faced a pair of defamation suits from the writer E. Jean Carroll, who said that Trump sexually assaulted her in a department-store dressing room in the 1990s. When he denied it, she sued him for defamation and later added a battery claim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When? In May 2023, a jury concluded that Trump had sexually assaulted and defamed Carroll, and awarded her $5 million. A second defamation case produced an $83.3 million judgment in January 2024. How grave was the allegation? Although these cases didnt directly connect to the same fundamental issues of rule of law and democratic governance that some of the criminal cases do, they were a serious matter, and a federal judges blunt statement that Trump raped Carroll has gone underappreciated. What happens now? Trump appealed both cases and posted bond for the $83.3 million in March. His appeal in the $5 million case was rejected on December 30. Manhattan: Hush Money In March 2023, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg became the first prosecutor to bring felony charges against Trump, alleging that the former president had falsified business records as part of a scheme to pay hush money to women who said theyd had sexual relationships with Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When? The trial began on April 15 and ended with a May 30 conviction. Trump will be sentenced on January 10. How grave was the allegation? Many people have analogized this case to Al Capones conviction on tax evasion: Its not that he didnt deserve it, but it wasnt really why he was an infamous villain. Trump did deserve it, and hes now a convicted felon. Moreover, although the charges were about falsifying records, those records were falsified to keep information from the public as it voted in the 2016 election. It was among the first of Trumps many attacks on fair elections. (His two impeachments were also for efforts to undermine the electoral process.) If at times this case felt more minor compared with the election-subversion or classified-documents cases, its because those other cases set a grossly high standard. What happens now? On January 3, Justice Juan Merchan scheduled sentencing for January 10, but indicated that he would likely sentence Trump to an unconditional discharge, which means no jail or probation time, and no other requirements to meet. Department of Justice: Mar-a-Lago Documents Special Counsel Jack Smith charged Trump with 37 felonies in connection with his removal of documents from the White House when he left office, but Judge Aileen Cannon has dismissed the case, finding that Smiths appointment was not constitutional. Smith appealed. The charges included willful retention of national-security information, obstruction of justice, withholding of documents, and false statements. Trump took boxes of documents to properties, where they were stored haphazardly, but the indictment centered on his refusal to give them back to the government despite repeated requests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [David A. Graham: This indictment is different] When? Smith filed charges in June 2023. On July 15, 2024, Cannon dismissed the charges. Smith appealed that on August 26, but filed to dismiss charges on November 25. How grave was the allegation? These are, I have written, the stupidest crimes imaginable, but they are nevertheless very serious. Protecting the nations secrets is one of the greatest responsibilities of any public official with classified clearance, and not only did Trump put these documents at risk, but he also (allegedly) refused to comply with a subpoena, tried to hide the documents, and lied to the government through his attorneys. How plausible was a guilty verdict? This once looked to be the most open-and-shut case: The facts and legal theory here are pretty straightforward. But Smith drew a short straw when he was randomly assigned Cannon, a Trump appointee who repeatedly ruled favorably for Trump and bogged the case down in endless pretrial arguments. Even before her dismissal of the case, some legal commentators accused her of sabotaging it. Fulton County: Election Subversion In Fulton County, Georgia, which includes most of Atlanta, District Attorney Fani Willis brought a huge racketeering case against Trump and 18 others, alleging a conspiracy that spread across weeks and states with the aim of stealing the 2020 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When? Willis obtained the indictment in August 2023. The number of people charged makes the case unwieldy and difficult to track. Several of them, including Kenneth Chesebro, Sidney Powell, and Jenna Ellis, struck plea deals in the fall. On December 19, an appeals court removed Willis from the case, citing her relationship with a former special prosecutor on the case. She has appealed, and the cases future is murky. How grave is the allegation? More than any other case, this one attempts to reckon with the full breadth of the assault on democracy following the 2020 election. How plausible is a guilty verdict? This is a huge case for a local prosecutor, even in a county as large as Fulton, to bring. The racketeering law allowed Willis to sweep in a great deal of material, and she has some strong evidencesuch as a call in which Trump asked Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to find some 11,000 votes. Its now unclear whether the case will continue with Willis removed. Department of Justice: Election Subversion Special Counsel Smith also charged Trump with four federal felonies in connection with his attempt to remain in power after losing the 2020 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When? A grand jury indicted Trump on August 1, 2023. The trial was originally scheduled for March but was frozen while the Supreme Court mulled whether the former president should be immune from prosecution. On July 1, 2024, the justices ruled that a president is immune from prosecution for official but not unofficial acts, finding that some of Trumps postelection actions were official and sending the case back to the trial court to determine others. Smith obtained a new indictment on August 27, which retains the same four felony charges but omits references to corrupting the Justice Department. On November 25, Smith filed to drop charges because of Trumps reelection. [David A. Graham: Trump attempted a brazen, dead-serious attack on American democracy] How grave was the allegation? This case rivaled the Fulton County one in importance. It is narrower, focusing just on Trump and a few key elements of the paperwork coup, but the symbolic weight of the U.S. Justice Department prosecuting an attempt to subvert the American election system is heavy. How plausible was a guilty verdict? The question is now purely speculative and academic. Additionally Once upon a time, cases were filed in more than 30 states over whether Trump could even appear on the 2024 ballot under a novel legal theory about the Fourteenth Amendment. Proponents, including J. Michael Luttig and Laurence H. Tribe in The Atlantic, argued that the former president was ineligible to serve again under a clause that disqualifies anyone who took an oath defending the Constitution and then subsequently participated in a rebellion or an insurrection. They said that Trumps attempt to steal the 2020 election and his incitement of the January 6 riot meet the criteria. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Supreme Court conclusively disagreed. The justices ruled unanimously on March 4 that states could not remove Trump from the ballot, and appear on the ballot he did. Trump is set to be sworn in as the 47th president on January 20, 2025. Article originally published at The Atlantic A public health warning is an important message for people with cats. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has advised people not to purchase Monarch Raw Pet Food, often sold at farmer's markets across California, after a cat tested positive for bird flu from their products. The news is a concerning development in the growing number of bird flu cases that have been spreading across the United States. According to the press release sent out by the organization, the H5N1 bird flu was detected in Monarch Raw Pet Food cat food recently, prompting the organization to share their warning. Related: Cats in the U.S. Are Contracting Bird Flu: What Pet Parents Need to Know "A house cat that consumed this product has been confirmed H5 bird flu positive," the press release states. "Four other house cats from the same household are presumed to have also been positive for H5 bird flu after consuming the product." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The organization also advised that any other animals that consumed Monarch raw pet food products "or other raw meat or dairy products" and is showing symptoms of H5N1 should contact their veterinarian "immediately," the press release states. A full listing of where Monarch Raw Pet Food is sold can be found on their website. This is the second time a warning about raw pet food has been issued because of bird flu in the last two weeks. On December 26, the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) warned consumers against Northwest Naturals brand 2 lb. Turkey Recipe raw & frozen pet food. The food also tested positive for H5N1 bird flu. Both the U.S. Department of Agricultures (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) and the Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (ODVL) at Oregon State University conducted the tests after a house cat in Washington County contracted the illness and died. "Tests confirmed a genetic match between the virus in the raw and frozen pet food and the infected cat," a press release from ODA states. The company voluntarily recalled their products after the bird flu was found. The Today Show reports that dozens of cats have died since the bird flu outbreak started in March 2024. Cats seem to be more susceptible to die of bird flu than other animals. They seem to contract the illness from a variety of sources; either from unpasteurized dairy products, raw meat, exposure to infected birds, or exposure to people who work with infected birds. The illness can even be passed through the clothing that these poultry workers wear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As for now, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has stated that the public health risk is low. There have been no known human-to-human cases of bird flu transmission. Although a few humans have contracted the illness through working with infected animals. The ODA is now urging cat owners to avoid feeding their cats raw or undercooked meat products, avoid consuming raw dairy, limit any contact with sick animals, wash your hands after handling raw animal products or any contact with sick animals, report any dead or ill birds to your local government organizations, and keep any pets or poultry away from wild waterfowl. According to TODAY, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has stressed that humans should also not consume raw milk or meat for these reasons. Looking for more PetHelpful updates? Follow us on YouTube for more entertaining videos. Or, share your own adorable pet by submitting a video, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest pet updates and tips. A Cava employee is accused of staging an armed robbery along with his stepson at the Downtown Crossing restaurant while he worked there last month, Suffolk District Attorney Kevin Hayden said Monday. Scott Douglas, 37, of Charlestown, is charged with larceny over $1,200, conspiracy, and false reporting of a crime. Judge Richard Sinnott ordered Douglas held on $10,000 bail with GPS monitoring upon release following his arraignment in Boston Municipal Court on Friday, Hayden said in a statement. Nickolas Lao, 19, of Charlestown, is charged with larceny over $1,200 and conspiracy. Sinnott ordered Lao held on $5,000 bail with GPS monitoring upon release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At about 10:34 p.m. on Dec. 29, Boston police responded to an armed robbery in progress at CAVA at 125 Summer St. Officers met with a store employee, later identified as Douglas, who reported he had been robbed at gunpoint while closing the restaurant for the night, Hayden said. Douglas initially told police he felt a hard metal object being pressed against the back of his head and noticed a black AR-15 style rifle being held by an unknown male, Hayden said. Douglas told police the man led him to the safe located in the back of the store. Douglas gave the man all the cash in the drawers, a black deposit bag full of cash, and several rolls of coins from the safe, totaling approximately $1,800, Hayden said. Douglas then said the man ordered him to face away while he ran out of the store. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Douglas gave responding officers a description of the suspect. Video surveillance showed a man with a completely different description as the one given by Douglas, and that man walked into the restaurant as Douglas simultaneously opened the door, Hayden said. At 10:31 p.m. the man is seen leaving the restaurant and fleeing toward the MBTA Chinatown Station at Washington and Boylston streets, the video surveillance showed. Investigators said based on video footage, the suspect was the only other person inside the restaurant or around the immediate area at the time of the robbery, Hayden said. Douglas met with officers several days after the purported robbery. He gave statements to investigators that were inconsistent with his initial statement and video footage from inside the restaurant, Hayden said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photographs of the unknown male caught on camera were distributed to officers in the area. Police later identified the man as Lao. Investigators found that both Lao and Douglas are listed as living at the same address in Charlestown. Investigators soon learned that Lao is the son of Douglas ex-wife, with whom Douglas still resides. Police sought and obtained arrest warrants for Douglas and Lao. We too often see employees who think they can fool police and their employers for their own illicit gain but end up fooling only themselves, Hayden said. This concocted incident instilled fear in our community and used up police time and resources that could have been dedicated elsewhere. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both men will return to court on Jan. 31 for pre-trial hearings. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) CBS 42 wants to help you and your family stay healthy. Each week, our resident Dr. Celeste Reese-Willis joins us to talk about a timely health issue. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) The Springfield community gathered tonight for a celebration of Three Kings Day. In many Latin American cultures, the Epiphany, or Three Kings Day is a particularly important holiday. The holiday celebrates the moment that the three wise men visited Baby Jesus and presented him with gifts. Many gathered at the Venue, known as Ivys events in Springfield for the Christian feast day, eating food, dancing, and listening to music. There was even photo opportunities with the kings. Im just so really proud that the traditions are really just kept alive. And a lot of the families really want their children to be able to experience the whole Fiesta de los Reyes Magos. Leaving boxes of hay outside and grass. So its its a great tradition to keep alive, said Owner of Ivys events, the Venue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three Kings Day is offically observed Monday, January 6th. 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 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CenterPoint Energy has proposed rate increases of nearly 4% for Minnesota customers this year. Minnesota's biggest gas utility has already implemented an interim 2.4% rate hike that took effect at the start of the year, but it has also asked the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to approve a 3.75% rate increase. The proposed increase would add $2.58 a month to customers' bills on average. CenterPoint, which reported $1.86 billion in 3rd quarter profits in September a 0.2% decrease on the year before, cited several reasons for the rate hike in its submission to the PUC, including rising costs for distributing gas, ongoing efforts to reduce emissions, higher returns for investors, and higher costs of borrowing money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The proposed increase would change the basic service and delivery charges, according to the PUC. The commission approved an interim 5.3% rate hike in 2023 which took effect on Jan. 1, 2024. Xcel Energy, Minnesota's biggest electricity provider, requested a 9.6% rate increase in 2025, which would go up from its current interim rate of 5.2%. The company also proposed a 3.6% increase for 2026. The PUC will make a decision regarding CenterPoint's proposal by July 1. CenterPoint serves over seven million metered customers in Minnesota, Indiana, Louisiana, Mississippi, Ohio and Texas. Related: Xcel Energy proposes rate increases of almost 10% in 2025 Nvidia (NVDA) stock closed at a record high on Monday ahead of CEO Jensen Huangs keynote address at the annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. Shares rose more than 3% to $149.43 north of Nvidia's previous record closing price of $148.88 per share on Nov. 7, 2024. As Wall Street analysts head to Sin City to meet with management from top tech companies, all eyes are on the AI chipmaker. Nvidia typically makes important product announcements at the CES trade show such as last years debut of new desktop graphics chips for gaming and AI while Huangs commentary is expected to give investors a preview of whats ahead for the artificial intelligence giant and the burgeoning AI market. Huang is scheduled deliver his keynote at 6:20 p.m. PST on Monday. It will be livestreamed on Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and other sites. His address comes as investors eagerly await the rollout of Nvidias latest Blackwell AI chips, which analysts have said will drive a massive new cycle of demand for the companys products despite fears of a slowdown in AI spending. After a design flaw pushed back the rollout of its Blackwell lineup and rumors of overheating problems in servers using those chips circulated, Nvidia confirmed in a November earnings call that Blackwell production is ramping up in the current quarter, with the chips shipping to customers ahead of expectations. Stifel analyst Ruben Roy has suggested that the Blackwell AI chips represent a $100 billion market opportunity for Nvidia. The jump in Nvidia stock on Monday extends its gains from last week when the chipmaker led a rebound in the "Magnificent Seven" tech stocks after a disappointing end to 2024. NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang looks on during a press conference during the "AI Vision For Thailand" event in Bangkok, Thailand, on Dec. 4, 2024. REUTERS/Chalinee Thirasupa REUTERS / Reuters In another potential tailwind for Nvidia shares, Truist Securities analyst William Stein said in a note Monday that he believes Nvidia will announce a standalone CPU, or central processing unit the brain of a computer, distinct from Nvidias Hopper and Blackwell GPUs, or graphics processing units at CES. Stein has said in past notes that such an announcement could open up another $35 billion market opportunity for the company. Bank of America's Vivek Arya said in a note Monday that while "NVDA stock has essentially stalled over the past 6 months" he expects CES to be a "positive catalyst, re-asserting NVDA's platform dominance." Arya said he believes Nvidia will provide "reassuring updates" on its Blackwell shipments and announcements about its robotics strategy and, potentially, an AI PC partnership. McLENNAN COUNTY, Texas (FOX 44) Four Central Texas women are among nearly 800 former Rangerettes who are set to perform at the 2025 CFP Semifinal at the 89th Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic! The event will take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington this Friday, January 10. As alumnae of the Kilgore College Rangerettes dance team, the women were previously part of the Cotton Bowl Classic when they wore the iconic red, white and blue uniform as active members. According to an official press release, the world-famous team is celebrating its 85th anniversary. This 2025 game marks the Rangerettes 75th consecuve appearance over seven decades. Current Rangerettes will showcase their tradional high kick, while alumnae have learned choreography to be performed by women ranging from their early 20s to age 93. The most senior dancer, from the eleventh line of the Rangerettes, performed at the Rangerettes first Cotton Bowl Classic appearance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Returning alumni will represent 33 states and 275 cities. Women are traveling from across Texas and as far as Alaska and Hawaii for this opportunity. Among those slated to perform are mothers and daughters who both made the team decades apart. Triplet sisters who made the team together in the 2000s also also are planning to dance. This years team has logged thousands of miles of travel the groups sophomores danced at Radio City Music Hall and in the Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, and the team returned days ago from performing in Londons New Years Day Parade. The Rangerettes debuted in 1940 under the direction of founder Gussie Nell Davis. The team has had only three directors. Deana Bolton Covin took the helm after Miss Davis retired. Dana Blair has directed the team since 1993. Shelley Wayne is assistant director and choreographer, and Angela Aulds is assistant choreographer and dance technician. You can read more about the history of the Rangerettes here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A Shenzhen-based company is set to showcase its latest tri-screen monitor at the CES 2025. Named FlipGo Horizon portable monitor, JSAUX's latest product offers enhanced productivity. The portable monitor has two 15.6" screens that are magnetically attachable, rotatable for horizontal or vertical use, and foldable for easy portability. FlipGo Horizon is inspired by the success of FlipGo, the worlds first magnetic dual-screen folding portable monitor. Building on FlipGo's innovation, FlipGo Horizon brings even more power, versatility, and performance for creators and professionals, according to the company. Boost your productivity "The successor of the IF and Red Dot Design award winner adds two additional screens to your laptop to boost your productivity to new levels," said the company in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement JSAUX is also preparing for the future of gaming with its upcoming lineup of accessories for the next-generation Nintendo Switch. "Building on the success of its accessories for Steam Deck, ROG Ally X, and Nintendo Switch, JSAUX remains committed to delivering a comprehensive range of solutions for gamers," added the company in a release. The maker revealed that its FlipGo product powers up directly from the USB-C port of your laptop, using just one cable to light up two screens for One to Duo or UltraView mode. When connected to an external power supply, the laptop will be charged. The company claims that FlipGo comes in two sizes, 13.5 inches and 16 inches. They share the same powerful features while maintaining a slim design. "Installing, dealing with cables, and compatibility have consistently troubled users of dual-screen portable monitors. FlipGo is designed to tackle these challenges for professionals," said JSAUX in a statement. "The ergonomic design of the monitor is crucial, which is why we've developed stacked monitors. With innovative magnetic suction structures and four different forms of stands, you can always effortlessly find the posture that suits you best." Suitable for many scenarios FlipGo features 3 function keys and 6 ports, catering to users diverse office and home needs. JSAUX maintains that FlipGo is an innovative tool suitable for many scenarios and audiences. Whether you're a busy office worker, a creative designer, or a meticulous code editor, the FlipGo can significantly enhance your work efficiency. Its versatility and customizability allow you to tailor your workflow to your habits and needs, unlocking your creativity, according to the company. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When writing papers and managing multiple sources, JSAUX claims that its dual-screen portable display streamlines the process. It enables efficient split-screen browsing, provides flexibility to track ideas and inspirations, and effortlessly manages multiple desktop windows. The latest monitor can bring dual-screen touch and gesture support to macOS and Windows. Not only can users can use FlipGo as a regular touchscreen, but they can also utilize it as a second touchpad for your MacBook, unlocking your productivity to the fullest, according to the JSAUX. "The FlipGo Portable Monitor is a game-changing dual-display solution designed for multitasking and portability. FlipGo has two separate displays, but it can act as one to display content, switching between them with just one click. Productivity shouldn't be limited and neither will your perspective," said JSAUX in a statement. JSAUX to reveal more innovations at CES 2025 JSAUX will make its first appearance at CES Las Vegas from January 7-10, 2025, at LVCC South Hall 1. During the CES 2025, the company will also reveal BANG!CASE, which is designed for iPhone 14-16 Pro models. This case features the BANG!Button, a Bluetooth-powered action button for instant app access. Its retro-futuristic transparent design and orange accents blend style and functionality. The company will also showcase GAMEBABY, a nostalgic iPhone case turning the device into a 90s-style handheld console. The detachable lower portion serves as a d-pad controller for gaming, reattaching seamlessly to protect the phone. A Chinese-born chemistry professor targeted by the Trump administration but later cleared over economic espionage accusations says the University of Kansas improperly reported him to the FBI based solely on the wild claims of an aggrieved exchange student trying to extort him for a six-figure sum. Professor Feng Franklin Taos life, career, reputation, and finances are in shambles as a result of KUs egregious conduct, according to a federal lawsuit filed Friday and obtained by The Independent. Rather than embracing academic rigor and enlightened, critical judgment, the university allowed itself to join in fear mongering and racist witch hunting, the complaint states, describing vicious, unabated discrimination on KUs part. It failed its own vision of being a home to innovative research and the constant pursuit of knowledge and to be guided by perseverance, positivity, and restless innovation. KU was wrong, should be ashamed of its actions, and deserves to be held accountable for the damage it caused to Professor Tao. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tao was arrested and jailed in August 2019 upon his return from a trip abroad, convicted in 2022, and acquitted in July 2024. He blames KU for actively assisting the government in bringing him down, citing in his complaint, among other things, a text allegedly sent by KUs deputy general counsel to the FBI after agents initially took him into custody. Job well done, gentlemen, the message read, according to Taos complaint. Congrats, and thanks. Feng Tao (right) and his wife, Hong Peng, center (GoFundMe) The Trump DOJs China Initiative was launched in 2018, and stemmed from largely disproven fears that Chinese academics in the U.S. were covertly funnelling valuable government-supported intellectual property back to China and undercutting American innovation. While there is no doubt that the Chinese government is engaged in ongoing intelligence operations meant to pilfer U.S. technology and know-how, and dozens of Chinese professors were indicted , few of the allegations, particularly those related to any sort of spying, economic or otherwise, held up in court. In the end, the program served largely to dissuade talented Chinese scholars from studying or teaching in the U.S., and the so-called reverse brain drain put America at a significant competitive disadvantage, according to experts . The Biden Administration ended the program in 2022, amid concerns of widespread racial profiling. Tao was the first person charged under the China Initiative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thanks for reaching out, but our client does not wish to comment at this time, attorney Karen King, a member of Taos legal team, said in an email on Monday. We will let you know if/when that changes. A KU spokesperson did not respond to multiple requests for comment. Tao moved to the U.S. in 2022 to pursue a PhD in chemistry at Princeton University. He then served as a post-doctoral fellow at the University of California, Berkeley, and in 2010 joined the faculty at the University of Notre Dame. In 2014, KU recruited Tao as a tenured associate professor in the Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, according to his complaint, which says a dozen of his research projects have received millions in financial support from federal agencies including the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Energy. During his time at KU, Tao received multiple honors for his work, including the University Scholarly Achievement Award for truly outstanding contributions, the complaint states. The University of Kansas has allegedly refused to reinstate Feng Tao, even after he was acquitted of all charges (University of Kansas) In 2017, a university in Fujian, China, contacted Tao to gauge his interest in joining the faculty there, the complaint continues. He traveled there with his family to see if they liked the environment, but ultimately decided against a move and Tao declined the position, it goes on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two years later, a visiting scholar at KU emailed Professor Tao with a complaint about having not received sufficient credit for a scientific paper she had worked on, according to the complaint. The student, who is identified as the Informant in Taos complaint, demanded $300,000 from Professor Tao for her allegedly unacknowledged effort and threatened to report him to the FBI for economic espionage if her demands were not met. But, the complaint contends, Professor Tao refused to be extorted. On April 30, 2019, the Informant falsely and anonymously reported to KU that Professor Tao was involved in espionage and held another full-time position in China, the complaint states. The very next day without assessing the credibility of the information, without speaking to Professor Tao, and without conducting any investigation of the source, the facts, or the circumstances KU reported the allegations against Professor Tao to the FBI, describing them as high importance. The university thereafter worked closely with the FBI on an investigation of Professor Tao, including unlawful surveillance of Professor Tao, the collection of incomplete and one-sided evidence against Professor Tao, and the fabrication of evidence against Professor Tao, the complaint contends, noting that KU provided the evidence that became central to the governments eventual charges. The Trump Administrations China Initiative was implemented by FBI Director Chris Wray (left), under Attorney General William Barr (Getty Images) KU, according to the complaint, neglected to protect Tao and instead acted as an arm of the government in destroying him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KU actively worked with the government to look for evidence that could support additional criminal charges against Professor Tao, brainstorm ways to strengthen the governments case and share information learned from Professor Taos attorneys, the complaint states. Tao, prosecutors alleged, had been secretly working for the university in Fujian while also working at KU. Ultimately, the FBI turned up no evidence of any espionage, according to the complaint. Yet, it says, the feds continued to pursue criminal charges for allegedly failing to disclose his tie to the university in Fujian that had offered him a job. (Taos defense attorneys argued that since Tao had not formally accepted the job, he had nothing to disclose.) In June 2020, Tao was indicted on seven counts of wire fraud and three counts of false statements, after which KU placed him on administrative leave and banned him from campus. KU threatened to have him arrested if he appeared on campus, the complaint says. Although the Chinese governments intelligence services are constantly after US secrets and innovations, few prosecutions under the Trump administrations China Initiative held up in court (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Taos trial began in March 2022, during which KU higher-ups testified against him. The following month, a jury found Tao guilty on three counts of wire fraud and one count of making a false statement, carrying up to 20 years in prison. However, in September 2022, the judge overseeing the proceedings against Tao reversed the wire fraud counts on grounds of insufficient evidence, while upholding his conviction on the single count of making false statements. In January 2023, Tao was sentenced to time served and two years probation. Tao appealed, but was fired by KU while it was pending, contravening its promise to wait until the case had been fully adjudicated. On July 11, 2024, an appeals court overturned Taos remaining false statements conviction, finding that the government had floated claims that border[ed] on misrepresentation. In an fundraising request posted on GoFundMe, Hong Peng, Taos wife, called the victory bittersweet. The cost of fighting the charges came to over $2 million, and with Tao out of work for more than four years at that point, the family found itself deeply in debt, she wrote. Some two weeks after he was fully cleared, Tao wrote to KU, asking for his job back, according to his complaint. In September, KU reiterated its decision to terminate him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To date, KU has not reinstated Professor Tao, the complaint states. He is now demanding he be reinstated, plus reimbursement for lost wages, as well as money damages for reputational injury, emotional distress, and pain and suffering, to be determined at trial. KU has not yet filed a formal response to Taos claims. CHICAGO -- The church pews where Francisca Lino and her family had sat for services every Sunday are now empty. Though she once sought sanctuary in the Chicago church to avoid deportation, this time not even that holy space feels safe, she said. Instead, Lino, a mother of six and wife of a U.S. citizen, plans to gather her family in front of a computer to watch a Spanish-language service at Lincoln United Methodist Church virtually every Sunday from now on. My family and I are tired of this, said Lino, whose Christmas was once again overshadowed by the uncertainty of her and her familys future in the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the threats from the incoming Trump administration that Chicago will be the epicenter of mass deportations, Emma Lozano, an activist and pastor at Lincoln United Methodist, decided to move its Spanish services online as the church prepares to protect its undocumented immigrant community. The services in English will remain in-person. The Pilsen church, Lozano said, has been vandalized and attacked by right-wing extremists in the past. We must take their threats seriously and prepare for the worst, Lozano said. That fear is beginning to settle in amid the immigrant community in the Chicago area. Advocates and local leaders warn that mass deportations could affect undocumented, mixed-status and new migrant families alike. Even if that is the case, the Mexican community is expected to experience the most deportations, according to Chicago political leaders and immigration advocates. Thats because they make up the largest group of immigrants in the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre coming to our schools, theyre coming to our hospital, theyre coming to our churches and sanctuaries on Sundays, former congressman Luis Gutierrez said at a December news conference at City Hall, where he and other leaders submitted a letter to Mayor Brandon Johnson to ask for the communitys protection. Theyve done it before and theyll do it again. No one is safe. President-elect Donald Trump plans to rescind a longstanding policy within Immigration and Customs Enforcement that prevents unauthorized arrests of undocumented immigrants in schools, hospitals and places of worship, according to reports. The news of the plan alarmed Lozano because her church is also the headquarters of Centro Sin Fronteras, a nonprofit pro-immigrant-rights organization that has represented many immigrants at risk of deportation, including Lino. Many members of Lincoln United Methodist are also mixed-status families that come together not only to pray but to support each other as they fight deportation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our worship service is going to be virtual now because we are not going to be set up so that they can come into our church and separate the children from their families, Lozano said. Lino, who took sanctuary at a Humboldt Park church in 2017 to avoid deportation during Trumps first term, has a scheduled check-in with immigration authorities Feb. 13, just weeks after Trump takes office again. She said her deepest fear is that she will not be able to avoid deportation this time. Now a grandmother of eight, Lino spends time with her family and does not watch the news. I try not to think about it, she said. We are tired of hiding and living this way, of hiding from the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lino has no criminal record and has lived and worked in this country for nearly 25 years, said her lawyer, Chris Bergin. She was arrested while crossing the southern border in 1999 and deported back to Mexico. She crossed the border again in 2001 and settled in Bolingbrook, where she married her husband the same year. Lino then applied for legal residency through her husband. She received a work permit and a Social Security number. However, Lino was arrested in 2005 during an interview with immigration authorities because although she admitted to her initial arrest, her application did not include the information, Bergin said. Since then, Lino has been in deportation proceedings but has been allowed to remain in the country by meeting with ICE agents annually. However, at her first check-in under the Trump administration in 2017, she was told she needed to attend her check-in with a flight ticket to Mexico in hand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im afraid this time, I will have to say goodbye to my family. But I hope that the Trump administration keeps their word that only criminals are deported, Lino said. During a brief visit to Chicago in early December, Tom Homan, Trumps so-called border czar, told a group of Illinois Republicans that ICE intended to target the deportation of criminals regardless of Mayor Johnsons support for immigrants. But what will be considered criminal is unknown. Homan also said the administration will verify the status of asylum-seekers. Though Trump also threatened to stop federal funding to sanctuary cities such as Chicago, both Johnson and Gov. JB Pritzker vowed to protect the immigrant community. But the blurred line lies between who and what is considered a criminal and who is not, Lozano said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve seen what Trump is capable of. He had a first round and knew how to attack better this time. While advocates believe mass deportations would mostly affect Mexican families because they make up the largest group of the 11 million immigrants in the U.S. without legal permission, Bergin said every immigrant is at risk, even those with an asylum case or temporary protected status and those who have Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals status. We should hope and pray for the best but prepare for the worst with the incoming Trump administration, Bergin said. Several pro-immigrant organizations throughout the city have begun to plan know your rights workshops and distribute resources advising community members on how to prepare for possible deportations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dont open the door and dont sign anything, Gutierrez said. Bergin also advised that those who are here without documentation prepare a power of attorney to protect their children, money and property. Erendira Rendon, vice president of immigrant justice for The Resurrection Project, said her legal team is preparing to take on more deportation cases when the Trump administration takes over. In the meantime, the team is working with the Illinois Venezuela Alliance to process as many applications as possible for asylum and temporary protected status. The Chicago areas Venezuelan community, made up mostly of the approximately 50,000 migrants who have arrived from the southern U.S. border in the last two years, are worried and fearful, said Jose Balboa, president of the alliance. In recent weeks, after Homans visit, the organization has gotten an increasing number of calls from migrants seeking support and guidance. Many are afraid to stay in the shelters, parents afraid to take their children to school and others wonder if they should go to work, said Balboa, who also sought asylum in the U.S. from Venezuela. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Balboa considers the new migrants at a higher risk of being deported because most are registered in some way with the immigration department, either having filed an asylum case or waiting for a court visit. That means that upon attending their interview with immigration, their applications for asylum, and refugee status or Temporary Protection Status, can be easily denied when Trump takes office, he said. Unlike those who are undocumented, the federal government has a way of tracing the new migrants, Balboa said. In mid-December, nearly 200 new migrants gathered in a prayer circle in Little Village, said pastor Matt De Mateo. He said faith leaders are in conversations about the role the churches can have in protecting people from deportation. In a statement, Brandon Lee of the The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights said that organization is preparing for Chicago and Illinois to be targeted by creating a plan to connect community members to local rapid-response teams. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Everything about how the mass deportations will take place in Chicago or across the country, however, remains unclear. Still, many are preparing, urging each other to rise above the fear. We must prepare but we must not hide, said Dolores Castaneda, a Little Village mother and community leader who has worked alongside undocumented immigrants for many years. For many longtime families in the country without legal permission, the threats of deportation are nothing new, she said. The average undocumented person has been in the country for more than 15 years, and many have learned to live with the fear, she said. There are more than half a million undocumented people in Illinois, according to the latest research, though the number could vary because many go under the radar. During a march Dec. 18, more than a dozen immigrants marched from the Little Village Arch to St. Agnes of Bohemia Catholic Church as a way to raise awareness in the community of the possible deportations and urge immigrants to stay alert. For Belesda Toledo, a mother of four, marching was something she did for herself. It made me feel strong and in community, she said. Im afraid, but I also have faith that God is with us and he protects our future, whatever it may be. Toledo arrived in Chicago two decades ago from Guerrero, Mexico. Her four children are U.S. citizens. She said she and her children are active participants at the church and she cleans houses from time to time. Im not a criminal; the father of my children works to make sure our children go to school and have everything we didnt have, Toledo said. She said she agrees that those who have committed crimes should be deported. She said that if the administration creates a vetting process that could also consider the contributions many, including her and her husband, have made to the country, then they could have an opportunity to stay here lawfully. While Toledo has no plans to stop living her normal life, including going to church at St. Agnes of Bohemia every Sunday, she said things could change come Jan. 20, when Trump takes office. I have faith that we will be able to stay, she said. In the meantime, at Lincoln United Methodist in Pilsen, the pews will remain empty and the church quiet. During the first virtual service the Sunday before Christmas, pastor Cecilia Garcia cried. Her husband was deported nearly a decade ago and the feeling of uncertainty and fear felt familiar, she said. Its happening again and we dont know how many families will be affected. One of Mayor Brandon Johnsons signature projects is an ambitious plan to spend $1.25 billion over five years to build affordable housing, rehab or construct new commercial buildings and issue small business loans across Chicago. Helping fund the progressive program is a seemingly unremarkable fiscal detail: The money borrowed for the work will be paid back with property tax dollars being freed up across the city as controversial tax increment financing districts, or TIFs, begin to expire. While the Johnson administration notes the move would not require the city to hike property taxes and insists there will be plenty to pay back the borrowed money plus interest, the move could have several, sometimes divergent, consequences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Binding so much cash to debt payments could hamstring city finances. And aldermen who have banked on their local TIF funds to pay for projects in their wards for the last quarter century might instead have to get in line behind their colleagues. But on the other side of the ledger, Chicago schools, parks and other government bodies that have gone decades without being able to count on new tax dollars tied to construction or fresh development in certain TIF districts will soon be able to. Its the latest chapter in Chicagos long history with TIFs, which supporters have praised for spurring growth in struggling neighborhoods and critics have hammered as little more than opaque slush funds for aldermanic and mayoral pet projects. Council members quietly got the ball rolling weeks ago during the chaos of passing this years city budget. They let 13 TIF districts expire and extended eight others for another 12 years. Insiders dubbed 2024 the start of Chicagos TIF cliff, when dozens of districts which, unless extended, have a lifespan of 23 years were scheduled to sunset. Cliff might be a bit dramatic. Through the end of 2027, the city proposes letting 29 TIF districts expire but still extending 18, leaving 90 on the books for city leaders to winnow down in order to pay off the bonds. At one point in 2011, Chicago had 165 TIFs dispersed throughout the city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though TIFs were launched in Chicago in 1984 under Mayor Harold Washington, Mayor Richard M. Daley oversaw a massive expansion of the TIF program through the late 1990s and early 2000s, blanketing much of the city in special taxing districts. Aldermen, eager to supercharge or welcome new projects in their wards, approved 63 new TIFs between 1999 and 2004 alone. As TIF projects boomed, however, critics noted the special taxing districts often helped City Hall insiders as new money generated by economic development in the geographic areas could only be spent on specific projects within that TIFs boundary. Other taxing bodies such as Chicago Public Schools and the Chicago Park District couldnt access any incremental property tax dollars that came with the new development or rising property values in those districts for the years the TIF was active. Now with some TIFs beginning to expire, Johnson is looking to use leftover TIF revenue and new property value on a pet project of his own affordable housing and citywide economic development. That plan, however, comes with strings. When including interest, it will cost an estimated $2.44 billion to borrow the full $1.25 billion Johnson pitched. While the city says the property tax money freed up as TIF districts expire will be more than enough to cover that debt with room left over, it ties up a big source of revenue decades after the projects are finished. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement David Merriman, a professor of public administration at the University of Illinois Chicago who has studied TIFs nationally, said that its a good thing to let the TIFs expire, but said he also thinks its a little strange so much of the newly freed-up property tax dollars are sequestered to service bonds. Limiting future mayors and aldermen from tapping those funds for infrastructure, other departments priorities or fiscal emergencies just seems very arbitrary to me, Merriman said. Debt service costs will grow gradually through 2032 before topping out at just over $81 million per year, according to city estimates. Aside from dips between 2028 and 2030, there will be $24 million to $57 million in property tax revenues left each year after making debt service payments, according to city figures through 2034. If property values decline or the council balks at closing more TIFs, however, the city would bring in less revenue than it anticipates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Department of Planning and Development Managing Deputy Commissioner Tim Jeffries said he understands concerns about tying the citys hands with bond payments. Still, given how other pots of city money used for housing are drying up, the alternative is that the city should not be investing in affordable housing. I dont think that that was a choice that anyone is willing to make, Jeffries said in an interview in December. But embracing the TIF cliff has an upside for other taxing bodies such as the citys school and park districts. Both will be able to tap into millions of dollars of potential revenues from this year forward. District leaders and the Chicago Teachers Union have requested it for years, and their demands have grown louder during their protracted contract battle. CTU called for a near-total abolition of the TIF program earlier this fall, while embattled CPS CEO Pedro Martinez requested a massive TIF surplus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although CPS hasnt had the ability to tax incremental growth within TIF districts, the city has used TIF dollars to help CPS in two ways: directly spending TIF dollars on capital improvements and redistributing surplus TIF dollars that werent already dedicated to city projects. Beginning in 2019, for example, the city approved more than $300 million in TIF spending to build new gyms or turf fields, replace or repair mechanical systems, and fix plumbing, roofs and windows at CPS facilities, according to city data. CPS also received $1.34 billion in TIF surplus during that same time, including a record $311 million as part of Chicagos 2025 budget. But those capital projects could only happen within TIF boundaries, and surpluses were one-time fixes that varied from year to year. With the expiration of TIFs, however, the entire school district gets a predictable and flexible funding stream it can spend more freely. According to city planning and development office estimates, new CPS revenues from expiring TIFs would grow from $54 million in 2025 equal to about 10% of the districts projected deficit next year to over $100 million between 2026 and 2030, if the district moves to capture all the new values from expiring TIFs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unlike TIF surplus, new dollars from expiring TIFs arent one-time infusions. They stack onto the districts existing property tax levy each year. As a bonus, new TIF values are exempt from the states cap on property tax hikes, known as PTELL, and would not increase taxpayers bills. By 2031, the city projects CPS revenues would add up to $986 million. That figure will continue to steadily increase thereafter, far exceeding how much the district receives from annual TIF surpluses, the rating agency Moodys previously pointed out. Based on what the district is already collecting in property taxes $4 billion last year the extra money is significant, Merriman said. It certainly will make their life just a little bit easier. Its not going to solve all their problems by any means. The way to think about it is if youve been averaging a 6% increase in wages each year first of all, youre very lucky this is like a 7% increase in your wages. Its a little nicer, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though Johnson already has announced two affordable rental projects that will be paid for with bond proceeds, the city doesnt have the money yet. According to Chicagos latest bond offering, the city plans to borrow the first $75 million sometime this quarter, followed by several other borrowing rounds through 2028. Another city entity that generally relies on sales tax revenues to pay off debt also is expected to issue bonds for the project. The initial bond plan faced some aldermanic opposition but the TIF actions that cleared the City Council at the very end of the year came with minimal fuss. Most expiring TIFs had small leftover balances, meaning there wasnt much for aldermen to fight over. Other TIFs are bigger, like the Chicago/Kingsbury TIF that was created to transform the old Montgomery Ward catalog building into condos and what was Groupons headquarters. Over the years, the neighborhood surrounding that TIF district modernized as developers built new condos and apartments and businesses moved in. Because TIFs accrue money when new property is developed or when values rise, Chicago/Kingsbury raked in annually in its final years between $30 million and $40 million that the area hadnt been bringing in before the TIF was created. Socioeconomic needs and fund balances were two key criteria the citys planning and development office used to decide which TIFs to close. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city made a score based on area income, unemployment and property values compared with the rest of the city, and a separate score based on whether the TIF was well-funded and actively spending money. The Jefferson/Roosevelt TIF, for example, just east of the UIC campus, has a low socioeconomic need and hadnt been spending much money on projects in recent years. With a $52 million balance on its books at the start of 2024, the planning and development office let it expire. Other TIF districts likely will be tweaked. The city intends to cut in half the bountiful Central West TIF that blankets much of the West Loop, while some TIFs west of Ogden Avenue are expected to be extended and others in areas where popular restaurants, shops and pricey properties are located will likely expire. The changes, as Crains reported last month, ensure the TIF still covers Skinner Park and potentially a new Pink Line station that could serve the massive redevelopment planned near the United Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres been more pushback to the expiration of several smaller districts Daley established around Midway Airport, illustrating why winding down TIFs can be tough for mayors to pull off politically. Ald. Silvana Tabares, 23rd, was initially opposed to efforts by the city to close the Midway TIFs. She said the neighborhood still needed streetscape fix-ups and wanted to use TIF dollars to help build a long-sought new police station on the Southwest Side. Tabares eventually dropped her opposition. Another TIF in her ward, near 63rd and Pulaski Road, was extended for 12 years and saw its budget increase to more than $55 million from an initial $28.2 million. Tabares hoped to use TIF dollars to redevelop a vacant lot nearby into an annex for Hubbard High School. Its severely overcrowded, she said, stating the schools student enrollment is 600 more than the building can house. They cant successfully get through a fire drill. Jeffries said the planning and development office convinced aldermen to close or alter TIF districts in their wards by reassuring them that many of the projects they wanted could still be funded with bond proceeds. Developers have similarly welcomed the moves since the rigid rules that define TIFs limit projects to specific geographic boundaries and prescribed spending. When potential applicants come in to discuss their projects, I like to say, Tell me your dream and then we can talk about what the city can do to help. When TIF was the only tool available, the aperture of what we could do was often extremely narrow or it didnt exist at all, depending on the district, Jeffries said. With the bond, developers dont have to pick sites that are based on the health of a TIF district. They can be where they really want to be. CHICAGO Mayor Brandon Johnsons administration passed on applying for state funding for a city-owned grocery store, raising questions about the future of the bold proposal the mayor first floated more than a year ago. Johnson first raised the idea of a publicly owned grocery store in September 2023. He framed the idea as a way to improve food access on the citys South and West sides, where supermarket closures have left many residents with limited access to fresh groceries in their neighborhoods. Activists who see groceries as a public good akin to a city water department or post office have long supported the concept. Still, the grocery business is notoriously tough and critics have expressed skepticism that the city, lacking in-house grocery expertise, could pull the project off. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The public grocery stores that exist already are in much smaller municipalities. Chicago could be the first major U.S. city to open a publicly-owned grocery store if it does so, though the idea has attracted interest elsewhere, including in New York City and Atlanta. In December, the city passed on applying for state funding for the project despite previously saying it would do so. The $20 million Illinois Grocery Initiative, which Gov. JB Pritzker signed into law in 2023, was created specifically to help open or fund grocery stores in food deserts statewide. Municipalities are among the entities that can apply for the funding for up to $2.4 million each not nearly enough to fund the startup of a new grocery store, but a place to start. The Tribune filed a Freedom of Information Act request for applications filed by the city for funding under the state program but found no such records. The first round of state grocery grants were awarded in October, and the deadline to apply for the second round of funding was in early December. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A city spokesperson did not comment on the decision not to apply for funding Monday. In a memo sent to top City Hall staffers Aug. 28, the mayors chief of staff, Cristina Pacione-Zayas, said she was coordinating efforts to apply for a state grant. Staff would be expected to work on tasks like site evaluations and financial analysis to ready the citys application for state funding, Pacione-Zayas wrote in the memo, which the Tribune obtained. In the memo, Pacione-Zayas said HR&A Advisors, a consultancy that authored a feasibility study on the municipally-owned grocery project for the city, would lead and support city departments in the application effort. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HR&A had highlighted the state grocery program as a possible source of funding in its study, which found a public grocery store to be necessary, feasible and implementable in Chicago. The city has not yet released the feasibility study to the public despite previously saying it would do so. The Tribune and Sun-Times reported on the study in early August. The HR&A consultants were hired by the nonprofit Economic Security Project, a longstanding proponent of public grocery stores that was an initial partner of Johnsons on the grocery project. In a statement, Sarah Saheb, director of the Economic Security Projects Illinois affiliate, said the organization urge[s] leaders across Illinois to take advantage of state resources to help support access to groceries in their communities. As corporations have consolidated power in almost every industry, including grocery store operations, theyve put profits over people, leaving families with chronic diseases and shorter life spans, Saheb said, adding that the state program gives municipalities the tools they need to create viable public options. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Supermarket closings have plagued the citys South and West Sides for years, making it difficult for many residents, especially those who dont have cars or are elderly, to buy fresh groceries. City leaders throughout multiple mayoral administrations have struggled to address grocery store closings, in some cases doling out public funds to bring in private grocers that later close stores in the citys underserved neighborhoods. Under Rahm Emanuel, for example, the city spent more than $10 million to bring a Whole Foods to Englewood that the company closed six years later. Proponents of a city-owned grocery store have argued that while opening such a store could be logistically challenging, it would alleviate some of the issues Chicago has faced by making the city less reliant on the good will of for-profit grocery companies. ____ COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) Police are investigating the death of a child who reportedly suffered burn injuries from hot water Monday morning just south of Downtown, Columbus. According to Columbus police, officers and medics responded to a home at 7:43 a.m. on Eaton Avenue in South Franklinton after receiving reports of a child not breathing. Police said the child touched hot water on a stove and was taken to an area hospital. The child was pronounced dead at 8:18 a.m. and the mother was detained by police. Columbus police said its homicide unit will investigate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (Bloomberg) -- Chinas efforts to entice more Taiwanese people to get permits to live and work on the mainland is prompting concern in Taipei that Beijing could be laying the groundwork to justify intervention in the self-governing islands affairs, according to a senior Taiwanese official. Most Read from Bloomberg Chinas efforts to promote the residence permit have recently intensified, especially when it comes to targeting Taiwanese people whove never traveled to the mainland, said the official, who asked not to be identified discussing a sensitive matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Taiwanese officials are concerned holders of this permit will be easier to convince to apply for Chinas national citizen identification card and to swap their passports for those issued by Beijing, the official said. They worry that could in turn be used by the Chinese government to justify the need to protect Chinese citizens in Taiwan, said the official. In 2018, China introduced this type of residence permit specifically for those from Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau to make it easier for holders to live and work on the mainland. The permit also grants access to financial services and social benefits, and can be obtained without those from Taiwan having to renounce their Taiwanese citizenship. China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has vowed to eventually bring the island under its control, even if by force. Ties between the two sides have become increasingly strained as of late after Lai Ching-te was elected Taiwans president in 2024. Beijing views Lai with great suspicion and has accused him of pursuing outright independence for Taiwan. Asked about the Chinese residence permits after he delivered his New Years address last Wednesday, Lai responded by saying, do not be tempted by short-term benefits and stray onto the wrong path, because democracy is priceless and freedom cannot be cashed in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Chinas decision this week to slap several major U.S. defense firms with penalizing trade measures is being viewed as a shot across the bow ahead of President-elect Trumps inauguration. The move targeting defense contractors Raytheon, Boeing, General Dynamics and Lockheed Martin adds to U.S.-China tensions heading into Trumps second term, though experts say its unlikely to greatly affect bottom lines. But it could be a sign of a brewing tit-for-tat as the two superpowers jockey for economic and military leverage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Firms that are primarily weapons companies, including Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics and Raytheon, already do little business with China given U.S. law bars the sale of all military items to Beijing unless the sitting president waives the ban. While such companies have non-weapons-related parts, its not central to the business, making Chinas recent sanctions mostly symbolic, according to Bill Reinsch, a former Commerce Department official and now the Scholl chair in international business at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington-based think tank. I think thats why theyre doing it, its a shot across the bow, Reinsch told The Hill. These are things that are designed to remind the current administration and the next one that they have a lot of influence on supply chains, and they have a lot of influence on the global economy, in part, by virtue of their interaction with us. He added: Its a signal they can make life difficult for us, just like we can make life difficult for them. Think of it as preemptive retaliation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beijing last week added 28 companies to an export control list to safeguard national security and interests, and it banned the export of items that serve both civilian and military situations, according to Chinas Ministry of Commerce. It also added 10 companies to what it calls an Unreliable Entities List, including Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, Raytheon/Lockheed Martin Javelin Joint Venture, and General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems for participating in selling of arms to Taiwan. The 10 companies are barred from all import and export activities related to China and from making new investments in the country, and senior executives of the companies will be denied work permits, the ministry said. Raytheons parent company RTX declined to comment on the Chinese penalties, while Boeing and General Dynamics did not respond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement, a Lockheed Martin spokesperson told The Hill that the firm closely adheres to United States government policy with regard to conducting business with foreign governments. Beijing has increasingly become more aggressive toward American companies as Trump, a frequent critic of China, is set to enter his second term on Jan. 20. Trump has on numerous occasions promised to impose new sanctions and tariffs on the country. In late November, Trump pledged to impose new tariffs on goods from Canada, Mexico and China through an executive order on the first day of his second term. The order, if executed, would add 10 percent to the current tariffs on Chinese products. Beijing has already banned the export of rare earth minerals to the United States and announced an investigation into American computer chip company Nvidia part of a back-and-forth economic retaliation campaign between the two countries. The tit-for-tat began during Trumps first term after he hit China with a series of tariffs and trade restrictions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Biden administration added to those penalties on Chinese companies, most recently in early December, when it added more than 100 companies to a restricted trade list. The move was an attempt to limit Beijings ability to develop its own advanced chips for military equipment and artificial intelligence. Sanctions or the threat of them are frequently used to punish countries for what another nation views as bad behavior or to pressure an enemy without using military force, an often effective policy tool. This is a pattern that we have been seeing for a little less than a decade now, said Yun Sun, the director of the China program at the Stimson Center in Washington. She said that while the specific branches of the U.S. defense companies affected in Chinas latest round of retaliation do not have much operation in the country to begin with, sanctioning them shows that China is retaliating in a symbolic way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There will be more sanctions against U.S. firms for arms sales to Taiwan down the road, she predicted, but she added that their effects will be limited due to their limited or nonexistent operation in China. China has made no secret of its desire to bring Taiwan under its control. Beijing sees the independent island as part of its territory and has stepped up its military presence around the island following the election of Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te in May. The United States maintains a one China policy that takes no stand on the issue, though Washington supplies Taiwan with weapons and other military equipment, to the ire of Beijing. The sanctions on the U.S. defense firms appear to send a signal that they could cripple us if they wanted to be a lot tougher, Reinsch said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He predicted that Trump will not respond favorably to the tactic, as its the same he employs against other countries and he doesnt usually welcome it when they do it to him. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 News Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi began a week-long tour of African nations as Beijing seeks to bolster ties to the continent. Africa has become essential for China as the worlds second-largest economy ramps up investment in electric vehicles and green technology, both of which require metals and minerals often found on the continent. Beijings bid for control of these resources has sparked a contest with the US and the EU, which have also ramped up investment in the region. However experts believe China has the advantage, in part because it maintains relations with autocratic regimes shunned by the West. China has become central to Africas policy, as an actor and an inspiration, an expert told Reuters. Two chloropleth maps comparing African countries biggest trading partners in 2002 and 2022 SIGNALS Beijings concerted outreach contrasts to Washingtons scattered approach Sources: ODI Global, North Africa Post, Texas National Security Review, Foreign Affairs Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since 1950, Chinese foreign ministers have prioritized Africa for their first overseas trip of the calendar year, and Wangs visit marks the 35th consecutive annual visit. The dedication marks a stark contrast to Washingtons less consistent approach, The Moroccan North Africa Post noted, with President Joe Biden making just one visit to sub-Sarahan Africa during his tenure. The Biden administration says that Africa is a priority, but its actions suggest otherwise, two security experts wrote. The incoming Trump administration, meanwhile, is likely to take a singularly transactional approach, an Africa expert argued in Foreign Affairs, which could make it harder for Washington to compete with China over the long term. Chinas economic slowdown could affect Africa Sources: South China Morning Post, Economist Intelligence Unit, Boston University, CNN, IMF Chinas economic woes could ripple through African countries, with Beijing providing fewer loans to the continent and taking a more hardball approach in debt-restructuring negotiations. Chinese loans to Africa have decreased since 2016, US-based researchers found, and Beijing has cut funding for the kinds of massive infrastructure projects it had previously financed in Africa in favor of so-called small yet beautiful investments that often have an environmental focus. China is also sub-Sarahan Africas biggest trading partner, which means even a 1% decline in Chinas growth rate could in turn reduce growth in the region by 0.25%, according to an IMF analysis. Beijing is ramping up its military presence in Africa Sources: Reuters, Africa Center for Strategic Studies, Center for Naval Analyses Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit Chad as part of his tour, where French troops began withdrawing last month; experts believe Wang is likely to discuss security issues with the countrys military leadership. China has been a reliable and stable partner for the new military juntas in the Sahel and West Africa, one expert told Reuters. Chinese troops have ramped up their presence in Africa in recent years, according to the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, noting that the Peoples Liberation Armys largest overseas deployment is on the continent. Africa has become a testing ground for Chinas military, a US-based analyst argued, allowing Beijing to prototype building up a military presence far beyond its own borders. News that northern China is seeing a surge of the respiratory illness called human metapneumovirus (HMPV), bringing an uptick in hospitalizations, is sparking a bit of anxious deja vu on social media. But Chinese authorities are pushing back against worried, COVID-like narratives, with a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson noting on Friday, Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season. The diseases appear to be less severe and spread with a smaller scale compared to the previous year. I think were just more cautious of outbreaks now, Jacqueline Stephens, PhD, a senior lecturer in public health at Flinders University in Australia, told the Guardian. Everyone is hypervigilant, and you hear this term human metapneumovirus and it sounds kind of scary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But HMPV is not new, and the U.S. has also seen spikes, which receded, most recently in spring of 2023. HMPV is probably much more common than we know, Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, previously told Fortune. We are finding it more often because we are testing people for respiratory diseases post-COVID and RSV, he says. Human metapneumovirus is a leading cause of acute respiratory infection, according to the American Lung Association. As with RSV, most humans have been infected with HMPV by age 5. While the vast majority will fare fine at home, as many as 10% of pediatric hospitalizations are due to lower respiratory infections caused by the virus, according to the National Library of Medicine. A 2010 study found that it was the one of the most common viruses among 256 children hospitalized with respiratory ailments, second only to RSV. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When it comes to elderly adults, about 22 in every 10,000 are hospitalized with the virus each yearparticularly seniors with cardiovascular disease, according to a 2013 article in the journal Viruses. Symptoms are pretty much identical to other respiratory viruses, and testing is necessary to tell them apart. As with its relative, RSV, HMPV has the potential to hit harder for the young and the elderly, as well as for those with weakened immune systems. Heres what you need to know about the oft-undetected virus, known to spike each winter and spring. What are the symptoms of HMPV? Symptoms are similar to other respiratory viruses, according to the CDC, and include: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement cough fever nasal congestion shortness of breath In severe cases, symptoms may eventually progress to bronchitis and pneumonia. Where did HMPV come from? Its believed to have evolved from a virus in birds, and likely spilled over to humans about 200 years ago, according to a 2022 article in the medical journal Viruses. How does HMPV spread? The virus spreads from person to person in the way most respiratory viruses do, including: coughing and sneezing close personal contact like shaking hands touching objects that have the virus on them, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes It usually takes three to six days to fall ill with the virus after being exposed. How do I know if I have HMPV? Only a lab test can tell if you have the virus. In rare cases in which someone is hospitalized and suspected to have the virus, doctors might perform a bronchoscopy, during which a small, flexible camera collects fluid from the lungs, according to the American Lung Association. Are there treatments for HMPV? There currently arent treatments, nor are there vaccines. If you have human metapneumovirus, youll likely end up taking pain or fever relievers, resting, and staying hydrated. Your doctor may also recommend using a humidifier or taking a long, hot shower to ease sore throat and cough. In severe cases, hospitalized patients may require oxygen and fluids, according to Merck Manual, a popular reference for doctors and pharmacists. How can I avoid HMPV? Tips for avoiding the virus are the same youd follow to steer clear of other respiratory pathogens like cold, flu, and COVID. They include: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stay away from sick people. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching your face before washing your hands. Disinfect surfaces like doorknobs, countertops, and light switches regularly. If youre sick, stay home if you can, and cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Cases have been surging in northern China, particularly among children, according to local authorities. The countrys center for disease control has warned people to take precautions with health and hygiene, but has also pushed back against online claims of overwhelmed hospitals and fears of another COVID-like pandemic. Erin Prater contributed the original version of this article. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com China slammed the U.S. Monday for sanctioning a Beijing-based cybersecurity firm allegedly behind a botnet targeting American infrastructure, accusing Washington of using the issue of cybersecurity to vilify and smear China. On the so-called issue of cyberattacks, China has made clear our position more than once, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said at a press conference. China has all along firmly opposed hacking and fights it in accordance with law. For quite some time, the U.S. has been trumpeting so-called Chinese hacking and even using it to impose illegal and unilateral sanctions on China, he added. China firmly rejects this and will do what is necessary to safeguard our lawful rights and interests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. announced sanctions Friday on the Chinese cyber company Integrity Technology Group. Hackers associated with the firm are accused of targeting multiple U.S. and foreign corporations, universities, telecommunication firms, government and media organizations as part of an operation referred to a Flax Typhoon, according to the State Department. The Justice Department initially announced a court-authorized operation to disrupt the botnet, or network of compromised devices, run by Integrity Tech in September. The botnet consists of more than 260,000 devices across six continents, according to a joint advisory from the FBI, Cyber National Mission Force and National Security Agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement to The Hill last week, the Chinese Embassy suggested the sanctions were part an effort to smear other countries and accused the U.S. of being an initiator and master of cyber attacks. The U.S. has drawn conclusions without effective evidence, made groundless accusations and smears against China, and imposed sanctions on Chinese entities, which is extremely irresponsible and purely confusing right and wrong, embassy spokesperson Liu Pengyu said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. By Joe Cash BEIJING (Reuters) -China's top diplomat began his annual New Year tour of Africa on Sunday, maintaining a 35-year-long tradition, to quietly advance Beijing's already sizeable influence across the resource-rich continent as Europe's presence wanes and America's wavers. While global capitals and investors brace for the return of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to the White House, and wars in Ukraine and the Middle East and domestic politics keep German and French ministers occupied, Foreign Minister Wang Yi being in Namibia, the Republic of Congo, Chad and Nigeria highlights the consistency of China's engagement with Africa, analysts say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wang's visit through to Saturday also comes as the world's No.2 economy ramps up its financial support for the debt-laden continent and looks to strike more critical minerals deals and find markets to absorb its exports. "The decision on which countries to go to each year rarely follows any external logic," said Eric Orlander, co-founder of the China-Global South Project. "(But) it resonates in Africa as a reminder of China's consistent commitment to the continent, in contrast to the approaches of the U.S., United Kingdom and European Union." "China firmly believes that Africa has never been a forgotten continent, but rather a source of vitality and a land full of development potential," Guo Jiakun, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, told a regular news conference on Monday. As China's economy slows, Africa offers a much-needed avenue for its state-owned infrastructure firms struggling for projects as indebted local governments hold off on spending, and a market for its electric vehicles and solar panels, areas where the U.S. and EU say it has over-capacity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Africa's 50-plus votes at the United Nations could also help advance Beijing's efforts to reshape multilateral institutions and reinterpret global norms so that they are more in line with its interests, particularly on issues such as human rights. While current U.S. President Joe Biden's December trip to Angola was his only visit to sub-Saharan Africa in his presidency, China puts Africa at the front of its diplomatic calendar. "China has become central to Africa's policy, as an actor and an inspiration," said Hannah Ryder, founder of Development Reimagined, an African-owned consultancy, referring to how candidates vying to chair the African Union Commission have talked up Beijing's ability to improve Africa's manufacturing capabilities and China's track record in mass education ahead of February's election. The commission is the secretariat of the 55-nation African Union. SECURITY ISSUES Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wang's decision to visit the Republic of Congo, which this year takes over as co-chair of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) that sets the agenda for China-Africa relations, also points to China's commitment to implementing the outcomes of last year's summit, Ryder said, where China pledged $51 billion in fresh financial assistance. Beijing is also beginning to make its presence felt on pressing regional security issues, analysts say, which partly explains why Wang will travel to Chad. France last month began the withdrawal of its military from the Central African country, after its government unexpectedly ended a defence cooperation pact that had made it a key Western ally in the fight against Islamic militants in the region. "China has been a reliable and stable partner for the new military juntas in the Sahel and West Africa," Orland said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "For the French and U.S., who see a dilution of Western power in the region, China's presence is seen as 'controversial,' but it's a very different view from African perspectives." (Reporting by Joe Cash; Additional reporting by Ethan Wang; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan) China's consulate in the Thai city of Chiang Mai has promised to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens in Thailand following reports that a Chinese actor went missing near the Myanmar border. A social media post published late on Sunday said Chinese actor Wang Xing, also known by his stage name Xing Xing, went missing in Mae Sot district in northwestern Thailand, which borders Myanmar's Myawaddy, a city known as a hub for scam compounds. The consulate said it was not aware of any local police reports filed by his family as of Monday afternoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. It added that family members of the missing actor contacted the consulate on Friday, and they were briefed on the procedures for reporting missing people. The Chinese embassy in Myanmar is aware of the issue and is verifying whether Wang entered Myawaddy, according to China Newsweek. Wang was invited to take part in a film production in Thailand and landed in Bangkok, the country's capital, early on Friday morning, according to a post on social media platform Weibo by a person claiming to be Wang's girlfriend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the post, Wang was led through Thai immigration control by a person posing as a film crew member. A person claiming to be the film's associate director initially booked a hotel room near the airport for Wang, but later informed him that it would be too late to spend the night there and urged him to rush to the "filming location", the Weibo user said. He was then driven to Mae Sot, some 500km (310 miles) from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi airport, before he lost contact, according to the post. The social media user said she immediately reported the case to Shanghai police and contacted both the Chinese embassy in Bangkok and the consulate in Chiang Mai. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The embassy and consulate told her to report the case to Mae Sot police, she added. The post drew wide attention and was carried by Chinese celebrities including rapper Zhang Yixing, actress Jin Chen, and Dong Chengpeng, an actor and director better known as Da Peng. Another actor, Xu Dajiu, shared his experience of being "fooled" into travelling to Thailand by what he called a "fake film crew" on Sunday and Monday. In two separate video clips posted on Weibo, Xu said that late last year, he saw an advertisement in a group chat seeking actors for a drama filmed in Thailand. He said he contacted the person who posted the ad and just four minutes later he was told he was selected for the role. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "After I got off the plane in Bangkok, the person who picked me up was trying to confiscate my passport, but I refused. He then left along with the driver," Xu said. Xu added that the "film crew" cancelled his return flight after that. "If you are coming to Thailand to work, especially for drama filming, don't come. They are all fake," he said, adding that he contacted the real director of the production he was supposed to work on via Instagram and confirmed the advertisement he saw was fabricated. On December 30, prosecutors in the city of Wenzhou in eastern China laid charges against 16 citizens of Myanmar for running fraud compounds targeting Chinese people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Myanmar-based scammers lured Chinese citizens across the border to join the compounds with promises of high-paying jobs, according to Procuratorial Daily, a newspaper run by China's top prosecutor's office. The gang is also accused of operating gambling establishments and sex trafficking. 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 2025 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved. Copyright (c) 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved. China is looking to start electric aircraft exports this year and develop offshore production as part of its drive to develop the so-called low-altitude economy. The RX4E, a four-seater electric aircraft made by Rhyxeon General Aircraft Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Liaoning General Aviation Academy, is being targeted at Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Indonesia, which has more than 17,000 islands, and Malaysia are among the potential export markets, according Henry Hooi Hing-lee, the founding chairman of Hong Kong-based Volar Air Mobility, which is in partnership with the developers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. The RX series will also be introduced to the United Arab Emirates, and Volar hopes to benefit from its established networks in Africa. The company says it has an agreement with the developers to commercialise the plane in 15 countries, including for manufacturing operations. The firm signed a collaboration agreement with the Kenya Investment Authority in 2023 to bring green aviation into the country. "The electric aircraft seeks to address the local population's needs, particularly in countries where the road infrastructure is perhaps lacking," Hooi said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The RX4E, the third electric plane in the eco-friendly RX series, was the world's first where batteries could be swapped, he added. Its potential for commercial use is another major selling point, according to Hooi, who said possible applications included logistics, medical emergencies, pilot training, island hopping, ecotourism, regional commuting, aerial photography and surveying. "We also intend to work with local partners to potentially manufacture the RX series of green aircraft in each of the continents," Hooi added. The aircraft secured a type certificate, signalling airworthiness, from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) a week ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is also the world's first electric aircraft to be certified under the part 23 airworthiness regulations for normal category aircraft, which will allow its commercial operation, according to the developers. The RX4E made its maiden flight in 2019. Since then, the project has accumulated more than 1,200 flight hours and 1,800 take-offs and landings in three aircraft. The certification is in line with China's strategy to grow its low-altitude economy, which is made up of piloted and pilotless planes operating at heights of up to 1,000 metres (3,280 feet). It includes delivery and passenger drones as well as electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft and electric short take-off and landing aircraft. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CAAC estimates that the value of China's low-altitude economy will rise from 500 billion yuan (US$68.3 billion) in 2023 to 2 trillion yuan by 2030. In late December, the National Development and Reform Commission set up a new department to oversee the sector and many of the country's economic powerhouses, including Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen, have since unveiled policies to help it develop. Last year, Shenzhen, a leading tech hub, announced plans to invest 12 billion yuan (US$1.6 billion) in infrastructure for the low-altitude economy over two years. Hooi said that as consumers began to be more environmentally aware, the demand for green transport options would increase, driving global demand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We believe with the size of the Chinese domestic market, proven manufacturing competencies, and established supply chains, this positions China well in exporting the technology to the rest of the world," he said. 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 2025 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved. Copyright (c) 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved. Chinese soldiers were recently seen using catastrophic flamethrower guns. Recent images show PLA soldiers firing flamethrower guns at simulated targets. The Chinese military claims that these pictures were taken during an exercise in November 2024. Pictures show a flamethrower operator from a chemical defense detachment of a brigade under the Chinese PLA Army using the catastrophic weapon. The PLA also claimed that during the exercises, PLA members burnt down mock targets using flamethrowers. PLA used flamethrowers in Xinjiang Although, China hasn't disclosed which type of flamethrowers were being used. However, Beijing's forces used a flamethrower in 2015 to force more than 10 "terrorists" from a cave in the western Xinjiang region, home to a Uighur ethnic minority. PLA had revealed that at one point, flamethrowers were used to flush out militants hiding in a cave, who were then shot. Reports claimed that China used to operate the Type 74 flamethrower, a man-portable weapon of Chinese origin with a design similar to the Soviet LPO-50. Increased effectiveness Entered into the service in the 1970s, the weapon was developed to increase effectiveness while reducing weight at the same time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite having a similar design compared to the Soviet LPO-50, the Type 74 flamethrower has reduced cannisters from 3 to 2. Although, the Chinese version is slightly longer in the size. Its weight is also reduced while the effectiveness against bunkers is said to be doubled. Since the number of cannisters has been reduced, the flame gun on the Type 74 only has two ignition chargers near the muzzle. Each time a full tank of thickened gasoline is expelled Reports revealed that the Type 74 can be fired two times. Each time a full tank of thickened gasoline is expelled. The direct fire range is about 45 meters. As with the Soviet LPO-50 there probably is a 2 to 3 second delay between pulling the trigger and the fuel flow. Compared to the LPO-50, more fuel is expelled in less time. This results in significant recoil, requiring the Type 74 to be used in the prone position. The heat it generates can possibly melt human flesh. The Type 74 was adopted by China and is offered for export. During the 1979 conflict with Vietnam it reportedly was used against 1200 bunkers. This number may include the use of the Type 58, the Chinese production model of the Soviet LPO-50, according to reports. Type 74, which is a further development of the Soviet LPO-50, can be distinguished by having only 2 cylinders on the backpack and 2 ignition charges near the muzzle. The man-portable flamethrower, the LPO-50, was produced in Romania and China under license. In Soviet service, flamethrowers were used only by specialized chemical warfare units. Developed just after WWII, the weapon uses three cylinders for three fires. Each burst of flames lasts 5 to 7 seconds with a range of over 40 meters. On Jan. 20, 2025, Donald Trump will take the presidential oath of office: I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. And then he will probably add the phrase so help me God. Those four little words are not in the Constitution, but for many Americans, the phrase has been a part of the oath ever since George Washington was said to have added it 236 years ago. But did Washington really say so help me God? There is no evidence that he did. In fact, no one said he did until 1854, 65 years later, when Rufus Griswold, an editor and literary critic, told the story in a book titled The Republican Court: [Washington] added, with fervor, his eyes closed, that his whole soul might be absorbed in the supplication, So help me God! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a professor of U.S. history, I dont care if Washington said it or not; my interest is in how quickly so help me God became established in the American national memory. For a 2014 article titled In Griswold We Trust, I used various online databases such as Google Books, Internet Archive, American Periodicals Series and Newspapers.com to search for the phrase. Before 1854, there are no accounts of Washington saying so help me God at the end of the oath at least in the millions of print records covered by the databases. Then Griswold told the story, and by the end of the 1850s, almost a dozen books and magazine articles had repeated it. Griswolds story was so thoroughly accepted that, through the 20th century, no one, including academic scholars, thought to question it. The best way to understand Griswolds mythic insertion of so help me God into the presidential oath is through the lens of Christian nationalism. While the phrase is relatively new, Christian nationalism itself has been around for a long time. Second Great Awakening Scholars Andrew Whitehead and Samuel Perry have defined Christian nationalism as a cultural framework that idealizes and advocates a fusion of Christianity with American civic life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Christian nationalism was big in the early 19th century. Legal scholar Steven K. Green noted in his 2015 book, Inventing a Christian America, that the Second Great Awakening, a Protestant evangelical revival movement that peaked in the 1830s, brought about a desire to see religious values reflected in the nations culture and institutions. Rev. Ezra Stiles Ely, a Presbyterian minister in Philadelphia, took things a step further when he told his congregation in 1828 that only leaders known to be avowedly Christians should be elected. In the words of religious studies scholar Richard Hughes, many participants in the Second Great Awakening sought to transform the nation into a Christian Republic. In its aftermath, Griswolds account of Washington prayerfully adding so help me God to the presidential oath became part of Americas Christian creation myth. Another age, another so help me God story Like many cultural ideas, Christian nationalism has waxed and waned through American history. It was popular again in the years just after World War II, a time of increased tensions between the United States and the godless communists of the Soviet Union. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Religion was an important weapon in the Cold War. As Sen. Joseph McCarthy said, The fate of the world rests with the clash between the atheism of Moscow and the Christian spirit throughout other parts of the world. In this Cold War context, the U.S. added under God to the Pledge of Allegiance, made In God We Trust the countrys national motto and created a new version of the Griswold story: that every president, not just Washington, had ended their oath of office with so help me God. Actually, there is no compelling evidence that any president added so help me God before September 1881, when Chester A. Arthur was sworn in after the death of James Garfield. But it was important in Cold War America to prove that it was a Christian nation, so a new story was added to the American creation myth: Through the nations history, all presidents invoked God as part of their oath. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A search of the databases shows that this story began in 1948. One of the earliest examples was from Frank Waldrop, editor of the Washington Times-Herald, responding to the Supreme Courts decision in McCollum v. Board of Education that it was unconstitutional for public schools to promote religion. Every President from Washington down to Harry Truman has always taken that oath with his hand on the Bible, Waldrop wrote, and every President has added the undeniably religious phrase, So help me, God. Waldrop used the assertion that presidents have all said so help me God as an argument for inserting religion into public schools. This is an important point about Christian nationalism: As scholar Eric McDaniel and others have shown, it is not just a view of the past; it is a call for action, specifically to reclaim America as a holy land. Christian nationalism relies on a flawed understanding of the American past, but it has become an increasingly important part of our history. 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: David B. Parker, Kennesaw State University Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: David B. Parker 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. By Muvija M LONDON (Reuters) -Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby will end his duties on Monday after quitting amid an abuse cover-up scandal, but his interim successor is facing scrutiny in a similar case, leaving the Church of England on uncertain ground. Welby, 69, announced his resignation in November after an independent inquiry found he had taken insufficient action to bring to justice one of the institution's worst abusers, a man who volunteered at Christian summer camps decades ago. The man, John Smyth, died in 2018. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Welby, head of the Church of England and leader of the 85 million Anglicans worldwide, said on resigning that he must take "personal and institutional responsibility" for a lack of action on the "heinous abuses". He laid down his bishop's crozier, or pastoral staff, on the altar at the centuries-old Lambeth Palace in London on Monday, a symbolic act marking the end of his ministry as the archbishop of Canterbury, the latest statement from his office said. The Church is grappling with declining religious faith in Britain and internal divisions over how it approaches same-sex couples in its congregations. A British Social Attitudes report in 2019 said Britons were becoming steadily more secular, with just over one third of the public identifying as Christian. In 1983, when the BSA began measuring religious identity, that figure was 66%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell, the Church's second most senior cleric, will take over Welby's official functions until Welby's successor is picked. That process could take six months. Cottrell is himself facing scrutiny following a BBC report last month that said he had let a priest keep his job despite knowing the Church had barred him from being alone with children, and that he had paid compensation to a sexual abuse victim. Cottrell has apologised for not having acted sooner on the case, saying he suspended the priest, David Tudor, at the first opportunity. The Church in October banned Tudor for life from ministry. Reuters has not been able to contact Tudor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Church's Christmas festivities were overshadowed by the scandals. Cottrell said in his Christmas Day sermon that the Church must "strip off her finery and kneel in penitence and adoration". One of Welby's predecessors, George Carey, stepped down as a priest last month following allegations of mishandling Tudor's case. "The current situation creates a worrying vulnerability for the church," said Linda Woodhead, head of the Department of Theology and Religious Studies at King's College London. "The church could soon find itself with no archbishop at the helm." "This would create significant problems, even in the safeguarding realm, let alone other aspects of church governance." (Reporting by Muvija MEditing by Frances Kerry and Rod Nickel) Santos WA Northwest has admitted to a condensate spill at the Varanus Island Marine Terminal, resulting in a fine of $10,000 plus additional costs of $9,700. The company pleaded guilty to charges related to improper pipeline operation and failure to prevent petroleum escape under the Petroleum (Submerged Lands) Act 1982. On 20 March 2022, approximately 25,000 litres of condensate leaked from a pipeline at Varanus Island, off Western Australia's north-west coast. The spill was detected in the early morning, leading to an immediate halt of the loading process. The cause was identified as overbending and kinking of the pipeline, which weakened its structural integrity over time. The pipeline, situated 2025m underwater, was connected to buoys for retrieval by support vessels. Investigations revealed that the vessel crews were not adequately informed of the proper procedures to avoid kinking the flexible loading lines, despite the company's written guidelines. Santos, as the pipeline licensee, was found to have inadequately monitored the condensate loading operations and failed to properly assess the pipeline's condition before its 2022 use. In response to the incident, the Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DEMIRS) mandated Santos to enhance its operational controls and amend its environmental plan to mitigate future risks. DEMIRS Resource and Environmental Compliance executive director Tyler Sujdovic said: Operating subsea pipelines in a proper and workmanlike manner is a fundamental principle widely understood and applied by operators in the oil and gas industry. Post-incident, Santos has revised its procedures, introducing measures to prevent the kinking of flexible loading lines and to monitor the pipeline's subsea position. In December 2024, two Russian oil tankers sustained severe damage in a Black Sea storm, with images and video showing one vessel seemingly split in half and the other listing. "Santos WA Northwest pleads guilty over Varanus Island condensate spill" was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. By Kanishka Singh WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The CIA has released documents showing it monitored Latino activists who had supported late civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. and who opposed police brutality and the Vietnam War. The files were reported first by Axios on Monday, posted on the CIA's website and ranged from 1968 to 1983. WHY IT'S IMPORTANT Surveillance by U.S. agencies has a long history, with historians and rights advocates having condemned its sweeping and abusive nature in periods like the Vietnam war, the civil rights movement, as well as the years after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The latest documents were requested by Democratic U.S. Representatives Joaquin Castro and Jimmy Gomez on CIA's Operation Chaos, which was a domestic espionage program that targeted American citizens and voices of dissent. CONTEXT The documents released by the CIA showed that the work of activists like Rodolfo "Corky" Gonzales and farmworker union leader Cesar Chavez was viewed by the agency as a threat and with suspicion. They also showed that the movements of those leaders were tracked. The documents also revealed surveillance of Mexican American students in universities in that period. (Reporting by Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by Aurora Ellis) Cincinnati Public School will be closed Tuesday as snow continues to falls on the region. The district closed schools Monday as well, as the city has seen near-record snow accumulation. The district said only essential employees should report for work on Tuesday. See the latest weather updates here. Due to inclement weather, Cincinnati Public Schools and Central Office will be closed Tuesday, January 7, 2025. Only... Posted by Cincinnati Public Schools on Monday, January 6, 2025 Here are other weather-related closings and delays. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati Public Schools closed Tuesday as snow piles up TOPEKA (KSNT) City crews are working nonstop to clear residential streets in Topeka. City of Topeka spokesman Dan Garrett told 27 News on Jan. 6 that city workers expect two to four days to address all the streets in Topeka. He said crews will make one pass through each street they can safely access. On Sunday, Jan. 5 the city reported it was working with 24 snow removal trucks. Garrett said cars parked on the street could get snow-packed or make it impassible for snowplows. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We appreciate everyones support and patience as we work to clear the 3rd largest snowfall in Topeka history, Garrett said. We also encourage residents to park vehicles off the street, if possible. Parked vehicles may make it difficult for our trucks to navigate. Arctic air stays in place for the week ahead More updates are expected throughout the day on Jan. 6. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 5Look north on San Francisco Street in downtown Santa Fe, and the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi comes into sharp focus. The Romanesque Revival-style cathedral, at the end of an avenue lined with what appear to be traditional adobe storefronts, stands in sharp contrast to most buildings in the city. Looking down from the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the rooftops of the stuccoed buildings below are noticeably flat. But the largely earth-tone structures in the city's downtown area depict an array of architectural influences: Pueblo Revival, Territorial Revival, Mexican, Spanish and American. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It reflects the history of Santa Fe," State Historian Robert Martinez said of the city's distinct mix of building designs. "Santa Fe feels very Puebloan, but it's not just Puebloan. It feels very Spanish and Mexican, but it's not just Spanish and Mexican. It feels very American, but it's not just American. It's all of these things put together." For historians, the city's architecture is the product of the region's dynamic and sometimes turbulent history, a town that has been part of Spain, Mexico and now, for more than a century, the United States. But what's known as Santa Fe Style was also created by concerted government effort. Helping to shape the way the city looks today, an ordinance adopted in 1957 imposed a style mandate for areas designated as historic districts in an effort to drive up tourism and firmly plant Santa Fe on the map as a national destination. The historic preservation movement here began much earlier, however, dating back to the year New Mexico became a state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Victorian-style buildings were once more prevalent around the Santa Fe Plaza, but in 1912, local leaders decided to chart a different course, demoting the Victorian aesthetic by focusing on heritage architecture in a style that was Spanish Pueblo or Territorial Revival. Thus, "Santa Fe Style" was born. In its 175 years as a newspaper, The Santa Fe New Mexican has covered debates surrounding the Historic Districts Ordinance, a radical idea for its time. While some people continue to champion Santa Fe's patina, others feel the ordinance has stifled architectural innovation and contributed to the gentrification of a city that is caught in a housing affordability crisis. The ordinance has spurred plenty of controversy over the years, including in 2021, when the city filed a lawsuit asking a state court to order a couple who had painted their house green to comply with historic district regulations by changing the color. Another battle played out in 2006, when a couple built a house with walls that met at right angles, rather than a stuccoed structure with rounded edges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Strict design regulations Santa Fe was an early leader in the American preservation movement, the city noted in a 2021 report. A plan adopted by a newly formed city planning board in 1912 recommended all new buildings be required to conform with Santa Fe Style guidelines in exterior appearance. The directive wasn't legally binding, but decades later, the Historic Districts Ordinance was adopted, designed to protect and promote Santa Fe Style architecture in and around the Plaza. The preservation movement in the 1950s was fueled in part by anxiety about encroaching development and advances in building technology that posed a perceived threat to the city's architectural traditions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It's no secret style and continuity come at a cost. Article 14-5.2 of the city code, which spells out some rules for historic districts, is rife with strict and highly detailed requirements. "If the proposed building has a pitched roof, the ridge height of the proposed building shall not be in excess of two feet of the average of the ridge height of the pitched roofs in the streetscape," the code reads. Buildings in the Westside-Guadalupe Historic District must have exterior walls constructed of slump block, stucco, brick or stone. And the color of stuccoed buildings must be "predominantly" browns, tans, local earth tones and soft pastels. Santa Fe's preservation movement has even influenced the design of state government buildings. For instance, the dome on the former state Capitol building, now called the Bataan Memorial Building, was removed in the 1950s to bring its appearance more in line with Territorial Style. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Calls for more flexibility Some homeowners, developers and others think the Historic Districts Ordinance goes too far. While Santa Fe's beloved adobe brick buildings were once associated with frugality and perhaps even poverty dubbed "mud huts" by some the construction method is labor intensive, and renovations come with high costs. "We've made it so difficult to practice innovative architecture in Santa Fe," said Anthony Guida, an architect and president of Friends of Architecture Santa Fe. Also a member of the city's Historic Districts Review Board, a volunteer panel of residents tasked with ensuring structures comply with design styles, Guida said the city has a hard time "being able to see what is truly historic versus what is not." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We've made it very, very difficult and tedious for people who live in the historic districts to make changes to their properties, to own properties and to modify them in the case of accessibility needs or livability needs," Guida said. In Guida's view, the Historic Districts Ordinance has caused "almost the wholesale gentrification" of certain parts of the city, especially as the regulations have tightened over the years. The Santa Fe City Council amended the ordinance in 1996 to expand the authority of what was then called the Historic Design Review Board to limit building heights in historic districts. "We're in a particularly bad moment for something that started out as something so creative and generative and interesting in the first place," Guida said. Former City Councilor Phil Griego who became a state senator and eventually was sentenced to spend 18 months behind bars for fraud, bribery and other convictions pleaded in 1991 for more flexibility in the city's style code to accommodate residents who want to improve their homes. "We need to take in the human factor more," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Randy Randall, the city's longtime tourism director who is now serving as interim city manager, believes the restrictions outlined in the ordinance continue to pay dividends, allowing the city to flourish over time. "It's part of what makes Santa Fe one of a kind and the City Different," Randall said. "I think, back in [1912], the protections they got started have had a great deal to do with protection of the look of Santa Fe, and clearly, that's one of the things our visitors are looking for when they come." For Randall, Santa Fe Style is "so unique." He noted there aren't many "one of one cities in the United States." He likes how the textured surfaces of local architecture convey "different shades of colors as light hits it differently," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protecting historic areas of Santa Fe has been critical from a tourism perspective, Randall said, adding it is a key attraction for people who move to the city, even if they don't live in a historic district. "It's my understanding that Santa Fe was one of the first, if not the first, cities in the country to actually realize the importance of the protection of the historic look of the city," Randall said. "Many cities, like Charleston and Savannah and others, have followed based on the model that Santa Fe took." Newspaper documented early debates The Historic Districts Ordinance was the subject of debate even in 1957; The Santa Fe New Mexican reported Oct. 25 of that year, noting the "firm and unanimous" opposition of the Southwestern Design Council, a panel formed in 1956 to promote "good design" in the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "While the Council recognizes the sincere need to solve the many and varied problems of urban planning and architecture in the Southwest it strongly feels that any suggested solution should not violate the essential freedom of expression and creativity of our American Society," the council's statement read. Others championed the idea of carefully crafting an aesthetic standard for portions of the city. "We believe that everything should be done to create a public sentiment so strong that the Santa Fe Style will always predominate," reads a column published Dec. 24, 1912. "We favor as a tangible and effective encouragement the remitting or rebating taxes for a limited number of years on any structure built in any of the hundred variations of the Santa Fe Style." That was preceded by a June 21, 1912, column in the newspaper, one that showed what some residents were striving toward at that time. "Santa Fe should hustle to get into the same class with civic centers like Pasadena, Santa Barbara, and other towns which without one quarter the fundamental advantages that nature has bestowed upon Santa Fe have outgrown this ancient capital in beauty, in morality, sanitariness and therefore in population and prosperity," the column reads. A reflection of the city's history The plan for Santa Fe was laid out between 1608 and 1610. It was a part of Spain from 1598 to 1821 and a part of Mexico from 1821 to 1848. In its Colonial period and into its Mexican period, buildings were made of adobe bricks a mixture of mud and grass, dried in the sun said Martinez, the state historian. Some reports on Santa Fe's appearance at the time were not flattering, he added, including a 1776 account by a priest named Fray Francisco Atanasio Dominguez. "I'll give you an idea about what he said about Santa Fe. He said that essentially when one hears 'Santa Fe,' one would think it would be a grand Spanish town," Martinez said. "But he said it just did not measure up to that term, that it was kind of a motley, disorganized collection of low, squat, flat-roofed mud buildings." Once more akin to a Mexican town in its architecture and layout, which featured dusty roads without sidewalks, Martinez said Santa Fe began to see the stamp of Americans following the Mexican-American War, when New Mexico became a U.S. territory. Tourism began to take root in Santa Fe in the 1920s, giving rise to the start of Santa Fe Style. "It's really a kind of a glorification, a romanticization of Puebloan architecture," Martinez said of the building style. Ordinance shows its strength Santa Fe's Historic Districts Ordinance has been invoked over the years to prevent development believed to be inconsistent with the city's character. Some longtime residents also might recall times when the ordinance was used to help prevent the razing of structures deemed historic. The New Mexico Supreme Court in 1964 upheld the rules in a challenge brought by Gamble-Skogmo, a national retail chain. In 1966, the ordinance was used to stop the demolition of the Padre Gallegos House, now Santacafe, on Washington Avenue. The Historic Districts Review Board has taken many major stands over the years in the name of the ordinance. The board sought charges against sculptor Glenna Goodacre in 1988 for demolishing a garage and gate on Camino del Monte Sol, originally the home of artist Willard Nash, following the board's denial of the demolition request, The New Mexican reported. By the 10th anniversary of Historic Districts Ordinance it had been amended to expand historic districts and allow the city to regulate signs within these areas. During Historic Preservation Week that year, Mayor Pat Hollis bragged, "Blinking, objectionable neon is absent from our H zone." CLEARFIELD, Pa. (WTAJ) As snow is about to enter the area, Clearfields Mayor Mason Strouse wants you to grab that top hat and those coal eyes and show off your best snowman! Clearfield Borough is holding a snowman contest for residents of all ages from now until 8 p.m. Jan. 8. Photos of your snowman will be posted to the Mayors Facebook page for people to vote on their favorite. The top three photos with the most likes by Sunday, Jan. 12 at 8 p.m. will win the grand prize movie passes to the Ritz Theater in Downtown Clearfield. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Click here to enter your snowman Strouse encourages everyone to get outside, enjoy the snow, and build their best snowman! The contest is open to residents of all ages, but, you have to live in Clearfield Borough. 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. With a winter storm coming through Pennsylvania, Strouse would like to remind residents and businesses to clear sidewalks and driveways within 12 hours after snowfall. he also reminds you to remove vehicles from roadways, if you can, to make plowing easier and to clear snow from around hydrants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. LITTLE ROCK, Ark. The Clinton Presidential Center will be closed Thursday to honor the late former U.S. President Jimmy Carter. All other federal facilities will be closed after President Joe Biden designated Thursday, Jan. 9 as a National Day of Mourning to honor Carter. Biden also ordered all U.S. flags to fly half-staff throughout January. Jimmy Carter, the 39th US president, has died at 100 Carter served as the 39th U.S. president from 1977 to 1981. After his presidency, he focused on humanitarian work through the Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project for Habitat for Humanity with his wife. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter died Sunday, Dec. 29 at the age of 100, making him the longest-living U.S. president. Officials with the Clinton Presidential Center said a condolence book will be on display in the lobby of the Clinton Center until Jan. 30 for guests who would like to send a note to the Carter family. He inspired a lot of people, Arkansans remember former President Jimmy Carter The Clintons released a statement praising the efforts of Carter during his presidency and afterwards, saying that he lived to served others until the very end. From his commitment to civil rights as a state senator and governor of Georgia; to his efforts as President to protect our natural resources in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, make energy conservation a national priority, return the Panama Canal to Panama, and secure peace between Egypt and Israel at Camp David; to his post-Presidential efforts at the Carter Center supporting honest elections, advancing peace, combating disease, and promoting democracy; to his and Rosalynns devotion and hard work at Habitat for Humanityhe worked tirelessly for a better, fairer world. Part of a statement released from the Clintons Significant milestones in life and career of Jimmy Carter Funeral services for Carter are scheduled for 10 a.m. Thursday at the Washington National Cathedral. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. KALAPAKI BAY, Hawaii (KHON2) The Coast Guard and their partners rescued a 34-year-old woman in the water off the shore of Kauai shortly before noon Sunday. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Coast Guard Sector Honolulu watchstanders were alerted by Kauai County Dispatch at 11:48 a.m. that the woman was in distress while 500 yards off the shore in Kalapaki Bay. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rescue crews search for missing visitor off Kauais North Shore A 45 foot boat was launched from Kauais Coast Guard Station to assist in the rescue. Kauai Fire Department also arrived on scene with two members on paddleboards at the same time as the boat from Station Kauai. The woman was located and removed from the water, as well as the KFD members who were assisting her. The woman was transferred to local emergency medical services and is reportedly in stable condition. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. COCKE COUNTY, Tenn. (WATE) A volunteer firefighter was charged with criminal impersonation after a road rage incident. On December 22, the Cocke County Sheriffs Office learned about a claim that a member of the Parrottsville Volunteer Fire Department was following a womans vehicle, flashing emergency red and white lights and showing a badge. An incident report quotes the woman as saying the vehicle was riding her a*s and almost struck her vehicle. The woman felt intimidated and assumed the man was a law enforcement officer. She said that she took a back road to get away, but the man kept following her, so she drove to a police station for help. Eventually, the man stopped following her, the report said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How a box of explosives ended up at Knoxville recycling business Four days later on December 26, Cocke County Sheriffs Office encountered someone who they believe to be the same man running his lights and sirens. Cocke County Dispatch told the CCSO that a man was running emergency traffic in Cosby because he believed he was having a medical emergency. The dispatchers told him to stop the vehicle so he did not accidentally cause a wreck. The man stopped at Wilton Springs Hardware Store where law enforcement made contact. He was identified as Henry William Riegger, a volunteer firefighter. The report said the officer found two forward facing emergency light bars and a siren speaker on the vehicle. Law enforcement contacted Centerview Volunteer Fire Department where they learned that Riegger did not have permission though the department to run the lights in his person vehicle. They also contacted Parrottsville Volunteer Fire Department and learned that Reiger was no longer an active member as of November 2024. 6 News was told by Centerview that Riggers membership was under review. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident report said that all evidence supports that Riegger was responsible for the road rage incident on December 22. Newfound Gap Road to close ahead of winter weather Riegger was charged with criminal impersonation, a violation of light law, reckless driving and failure to equip emergency vehicles with Horn, Bell, Siren or Exhaust. Cocke County Sheriff CJ Ball said that the community has great volunteers and not to let this represent against them over ones action. Law Enforcement in Cocke County along with state, and city law enforcement only have blue lights on emergency vehicles, said Ball. If you cannot be sure that [the person stopping you] is a law enforcement officer, dial 911 or call non-emergency numbers at 423-623-3064 to verify the traffic stop is legit. Be sure to slow down and get to a safe location and the dispatchers will confirm with you that the stop is [taking] place and you need to pull over. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rieggers membership with the Centerview Volunteer Fire Department is under review. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. 36,706 people played the daily Crossword recently. Can you solve it faster than others? 36,706 people played the daily Crossword recently. Can you solve it faster than others? University of Utah student Rebeca Damico said her professors at first took a hard line against AI when ChatGPT was introduced in 2022, but she and other students say schools have softened their stands as the usefulness and career potential of the technology has become clearer. (Photo by Spenser Heaps for States Newsroom.) For 21-year-old Rebeca Damico, ChatGPTs public release in 2022 during her sophomore year of college at the University of Utah felt like navigating a minefield. The public relations student, now readying to graduate in the spring, said her professors immediately added policies to their syllabuses banning use of the chatbot, calling the generative artificial intelligence tool a form of plagiarism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For me, as someone who follows the rules, I was very scared, Damico said. I was like, oh, I cant, you know, even think about using it, because theyll know. Salt Lake City-based Damico studied journalism before switching her major to public relations, and saw ChatGPT and tools like it as a real threat to the writing industry. She also felt very aware of the temptation she and her classmates now had suddenly a term paper that might take you all night to write could be done in a few minutes with the help of AI. I know people that started using it and would use it to write their entire essays. I know people that got caught. I know people that didnt, Damico said. Especially in these last couple weeks of the semester, its so easy to be like, Oh, put it into ChatGPT, but then were like, if we do it once, its kind of like, this slippery slope. But students say theyre getting mixed messages the stern warning from professors against use of AI and the growing pressure from the job market to learn how to master it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The technological developments of generative AI over the last few years have cracked open a new industry, and a wealth of job opportunities. In California, Gov. Gavin Newsom recently announced the first statewide partnership with a tech firm to bring AI curriculum, resources and opportunities to the states public colleges. And even for those students not going into an IT role, its likely they will be asked to use AI in some way in their industries. Recent research from the World Economic Forums 2024 Work Trend Index Annual Report found that 75% of people in the workforce are using AI at work, and that some hiring managers are equally prioritizing AI skills with real-world job experience. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Higher eds view of AI Over the last few years, the University of Utah, like most academic institutions, has had to take a position on AI. As Damico experienced, the university added AI guidelines to its student handbook that take a fairly hard stance against the tools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It urges professors to add additional AI detection tools in addition to education platform Canvas Turnitin feature, which scans assignments for plagiarism. The guidelines also now define the use of AI tools without citation, documentation or authorization as forms of cheating. Though Damico said some professors continue to hold a hard line against AI, some have started to embrace it. The case-by-case basis Damico describes from her professors is in line with how many academic institutions are handling the technology. Some universities spell out college-wide rules, while others leave it up to professors themselves to set AI standards in their classrooms. Others, like Stanford Universitys policy, acknowledge that students are likely to interact with it. Stanford bans AI from being used to substantially complete an assignment or exam, and says students must disclose its use, but says absent a clear statement from a course instructor, use of or consultation with generative AI shall be treated analogously to assistance from another person. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Virginia Byrne is an associate professor of higher education and student affairs at Morgan State University in Baltimore, and she studies technology in the lives of learners and educators, with a focus on how it impacts college students. She said the university allows professors to figure out what works best for them when it comes to AI. She herself often assigns projects that prompt students to investigate the strengths and weaknesses of popular AI tools. Shes also a researcher with the TRAILS Institute, an multi-institution organization aiming to understand what trust in AI looks like, and how to create ethical, sustainable AI solutions. Along with Morgan State, researchers from University of Maryland, George Washington University and Cornell University conduct a variety of research, such as how ChatGPT can be used in health decision making, how to create watermark technology for AI or how other countries are shaping AI policy. Its cool to be in a space with people doing research thats related, but so different, Byrne said. Because it expands your thinking, and it allows us to bring graduate students and undergraduate students into this community where everyone is focused on trustworthiness and AI, but from so many different lenses. Byrne hopes that her students can see the potential that AI has to make their lives and work more easy, but she worries that it creates an artificial expectation for how young people need to perform online. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It might lead some folks, younger folks, who are just starting their careers, to feel like they need to use (social media tool) Canva to look totally perfect on LinkedIn, and use all these tools to optimize their time and their calendars, Byrne said. And I just worry that its creating a false expectation of speed and efficiency that the tools currently cant accomplish. Theresa Fesinstine is the founder of peoplepower.ai, which trains HR professionals on ways AI can be used efficiently within their organization. This semester, she instructed her first college course at the City University of New York on AI and business, and taught students of all years and backgrounds. Fesinstine said she was surprised how many of her students knew little to nothing about AI, but heard that many other instructors warned theyd fail students who were found to have used it in assignments. She thinks this mixed messaging often comes from not understanding the technology, and its abilities to help with an outline, or to find research resources. Its a little scary, and I think thats where, right now, most of the trepidation is centered around, she said. Its that most people, in my opinion, havent been trained or understand how to use AI most effectively, meaning they use it in the same way that you would use Google. Real-world applications Shriya Boppana, a 25-year-old MBA student at Duke University, not only uses AI in her day-to-day life for schoolwork, but shes also pursuing a career in generative AI development and acquisitions. She wasnt initially interested in AI, she said, but she worked on a project with Google and realized how the technology was set to influence everyday life, and how malleable it still is. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once you kind of realize how much that the tech actually isnt as fleshed out as you think it is, I was a little more interested in trying to understand what the path is to get it where it needs to go, Boppana said. She said she uses some form of AI tool every day, from planning her own schedule, to having a chatbot help decide how students in a group project should divide and complete work, based on their availability. Because she works with it regularly, she understands the strengths and limitations of AI, saying it helps her get mundane tasks done, process data or outline an assignment. But she said the personalized tone she aims to have in her writing just isnt there yet with the publicly available AI tools, so she doesnt completely rely on it for papers or correspondence. Parris Haynes, a 22-year-old junior studying philosophy at Morgan State, said the structure and high demand of some students coursework almost encourages or incentivizes them to use AI to help get it all done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He sees himself either going into law, or academia and said hes a little nervous about how AI is changing those industries. Though he leans on AI to help organize thoughts or assignments for classes like chemistry, Haynes said he wouldnt go near it when it comes to his work or career-related objectives for his philosophy classes. I dont really see much of a space for AI to relieve me of the burden of any academic assignments or potential career tasks in regards to philosophy, Haynes said. Even if it could write a convincing human-seeming paper, a philosophical paper, its robbing me of the joy of doing it. Gen Zs outlook on their future with AI Like Haynes, Fesinstine knows that some of her students are interested, but a little scared about the power AI may have over their futures. Although theres a lot of research about how older generations jobs are impacted by AI, those just about to break into the workforce may be the most affected, because theyve grown up with these technologies. I would say the attitude is I use this term a lot, cautiously curious, Fesinstine said. You know, theres definitely a vibe around ethics and protection that I dont know that I would see in other generations, perhaps But theres also an acknowledgement that this is something that a lot of companies are going to need and are going to want to use. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, two years since ChatGPTs release, Damico has started to realize the ways generative AI is useful in the workplace. She began working with PR firm Kronus Communications earlier this year, and was encouraged to explore some time-saving or brainstorming functions of generative AI. Shes become a fan of having ChatGPT explain new business concepts to her, or to get it to suggest Instagram captions. She also likes to use it for more refined answers than Google might provide, such as if shes searching for publications to pitch a client to. Though shes still cautious, and wont use generative AI to write actual assignments for her, Damico said she realizes she needs the knowledge and experience after graduation it gives you kind of this edge. Boppana, who sees her career growing in the AI space, feels incredibly optimistic about the role AI will play in her future. She knows shes more knowledgeable and prepared to go into an AI-centered workforce than most, but she feels like the opportunities for growth in healthcare, telecommunications, computing and more are worth wading into uncertain waters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think its like a beautiful opportunity for people to learn how machines just interact with the human world, and how we can, I dont know, make, like, prosthetic limbs, like test artificial hearts find hearing aids, Boppana said. Theres so much beauty in the way that AI helps human beings. I think you just have to find your space within it. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Dried psilocybin mushrooms. (Getty Images) Coloradans will soon be able to take psychedelic mushrooms in a regulated environment as the states natural medicine program finishes taking shape this year. The voter-approved program will allow licensed facilitators to conduct therapeutic sessions using psilocybin, the active ingredient found in magic mushrooms, starting in 2025. Colorado voters approved Proposition 122 in 2022, making Colorado the second state, after Oregon, to decriminalize the use of psychedelic mushrooms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Patients wont simply be able to walk into a healing center and leave with psychedelic mushrooms or other psilocybin products for consumption at a later time, as is the case with cannabis dispensaries. Someone interested in participating will need to go through a screening process to determine any risks of taking natural medicine. If they are deemed an appropriate candidate for psychedelic therapy, they will take natural medicine in a secure, regulated environment with a licensed facilitator to supervise and walk them through the entire experience. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX As the new year begins, Colorado regulators say theyve received a handful of applications for the licenses that will be required to cultivate mushrooms, manufacture natural medicines and operate healing centers. Tasia Poinsatte, Colorado director for the Healing Advocacy Fund, said a lag is expected between license applications opening this month and healing centers actually serving clients. Healing centers could open as early as April, but early summer is more likely, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Healing Advocacy Fund is a nonprofit organization that advocates safe and equitable access to psychedelic therapies. It started in Oregon after voters there approved a state-regulated psilocybin program in 2020. Personal use provisions of the law, which have been in place since December 2022, allow adults 21 or older to share natural medicines including psilocybin, psilocyn, ibogaine, mescaline and dimethyltryptamine with others 21 and older for counseling, spiritual guidance, community-based use, supported use, or related services. Advocates say psilocybin will serve as another tool in the mental health care toolkit that can help Coloradans who are struggling, particularly veterans. Research has suggested psilocybin could be used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, substance use disorder and major depression. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has designated psilocybin as a breakthrough therapy option for treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder. That breakthrough therapy designation means that FDA believes psilocybin may demonstrate substantial improvement above and beyond whats currently available for treatment, Taylor West, executive director of the Healing Advocacy Fund, said during a December press conference. In Colorado, we know that were dealing with a mental health crisis much like we are in the rest of the country, and thats part of the reason that psychedelic therapy has been supported by voters and by many in the mental health care field. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are four steps to the psilocybin therapeutic model in Colorado: assessment, preparation, administration and integration. First, an interested participant will go through a screening process to determine if they are a good fit for psychedelic therapy and the type of facilitator they would work best with. The participant then meets with their facilitator to learn about the administration process, set goals for their session and develop a safety plan. Then, the facilitator will administer psilocybin at a licensed service center, overseeing the session and supporting the participant throughout. An administration session can last five hours or longer. The participant will meet with their facilitator again after their session to integrate insights and learnings from the psilocybin experience into daily life and make plans for future support needed. Participants will primarily take psilocybin at a healing center, but the law will also permit clinical facilitators to offer psilocybin services at their existing practice, a retreat model where participants may stay overnight and reflect on their experiences for several days, and at-home administration with additional safety measures in place. Local governments in Colorado are able to determine when and where healing centers may operate, but they cannot outright ban them. Arapahoe County Commissioner Jessica Campbell said at the Healing Advocacy Fund press conference that local governments should protect access in their communities so that anyone in Colorado can take advantage of the new therapeutic option. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Colorados psychedelic therapy program is also estimated to be less than 1% of the size of Colorados cannabis market, but could make 100 times the difference in patients lives, Campbell said. Most importantly, I would urge local decision makers to think about the veterans, patients, survivors, and others suffering in our communities right now who could benefit from this therapy. State regulations and licensing West said the state-regulated model works as a complementary pathway to ongoing federal evaluations of psychedelic therapy, offering another tool for mental health care without making prospective patients wait through the FDAs review process. State regulated programs also allow people to use this medicine and these treatments for more than just a narrow, specific diagnosis of a condition, West said. So people can use them not only for when theyre having a mental health crisis, but actually use them to build up resilience and wellness before they experience a mental health crisis, and thats something that doesnt happen within a prescription-based program. Responsibility for regulating the natural medicine program is split between two Colorado agencies. The Colorado Department of Revenue regulates natural medicine businesses including healing centers, cultivation sites, manufacturers and testing facilities, and it will license their owners and employees. The Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies regulates training and licensing for facilitators who will directly engage with people consuming natural medicine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DORA has received a handful of applications for facilitator licenses, DORA spokesperson Katie ODonnell said Thursday. Department of Revenue spokesperson Elizabeth Kosar said the department has received three applications for business licenses to operate healing centers or cultivation sites. There may be many factors that would contribute to the timing of a business becoming operational once an application is approved, Kosar said in a statement. It would be difficult for us to estimate a timeline. The Division will look to make timely decisions on complete applications to support applicants looking to become operational. ODonnell said no one can begin practicing until there is regulated medicine available, which wont happen until cultivation sites are licensed and operating. Some licenses need to be renewed every year and others need to be renewed every two years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State licensing fees vary depending on the type of license a facilitator is applying for. Someone seeking a facilitator in training license will pay the state $420 as they work to complete supervised hours required to get a full facilitator license, which costs $840. A clinical facilitator license, which goes to someone with a medical background who plans to offer natural medicine services, costs $970. A distinguished educator license is available for people who have proven substantial experience with natural medicine in another state or country and teach for a facilitator education program in Colorado. That license costs $1,120. Poinsatte said the licensing fees, which the state only recently finalized, are a bit lower than initially expected, though they are still higher than fees for other licensed professions in Colorado. The fees are significantly lower than Oregons, though, which Poinsatte said are $2,000 annually for facilitators. Colorado has already approved several facilitator training programs, which cost anywhere between $7,000 to $11,000 to complete. Anyone 21 or older who has a high school diploma or equivalent and has met the states training requirements can become a psilocybin facilitator. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE LISBON, Ohio (WKBN) A corrections officer at the Columbiana County Jail pleaded no contest and was found guilty of an amended charge after allegations that he used excessive force on an inmate. Clint Reynolds, Jr., 26, entered the no-contest plea during a pretrial hearing in Columbiana County Municipal Court on Monday as part of a plea agreement. According to court records, he was found guilty of disorderly conduct, which was amended from the original assault charge. Court records state that Reynolds was ordered to pay a $150 fine as a result. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reynolds had been charged following an incident at the Columbiana County Jail on Oct. 3. An inmate reported that Reynolds pushed him while he was being released from the jail. The inmate said he discovered that his wedding ring had been cut into three pieces, and he refused to leave the jail until he could speak to a supervisor about it. He said at that time, Reynolds arrived and told him he needed to leave. The inmate said he initially refused and then moved into a vestibule and was picking up his belongings when he said Reynolds pushed him, causing him to lose his balance. According to the report from the Columbiana County Sheriffs Office, which investigated the incident, reports from other corrections officers indicated that the inmate had attempted to hit Reynolds in the stomach, but a review of jail cameras did not show the inmate hitting or attempting to hit Reynolds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Further interviews with the corrections officers gave conflicting information, the report stated. The Columbiana County Jail is operated by Correctional Solutions Group. The firm was hired by commissioners to take over jail operations in 2019. WKBN reached out to both the jail and Correctional Solutions Group for information on Reynolds employment status at the jail but has not heard back from anyone. Reynolds is the second corrections officer to face charges recently. David James Ferguson-Grantz is also facing charges for two incidents related to excessive force allegations on Sept. 18 and 24. His case is still pending in court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Update: Johnson has been found in good health, according to CPD. COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) The Columbus Police Department is asking the public for any information they may have on a missing 13-year-old juvenile. Police say Ron Johnson was last seen near the 100 block of Torch Hill Road on Jan. 3 at about 7 p.m. He was reported missing the next day. Police say Johnson was wearing a black hoodie with black and white sweatpants. He is described as standing at 5-foot-6 and weighing 236lbs with black hair, brown eyes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information is asked to call 911, the CPD Special Victims Unit at (706) 225-3449, or lead investigator Cpl. J. Copeland at (706) 225-4343. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 5WATERTOWN The Northern New York Community Foundation has announced the 10 nonprofit organizations in Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties that will receive $10,000 in total as part of their Community Spirit Youth Giving Challenge. The initiative began in 2017 in order to show middle school students the concepts of philanthropy and community needs. Each of the following organizations has been selected to receive $1,000 each: Jefferson County SPCA, who was written in by Jolene He of General Brown Central School; the Mental Health Association in Jefferson County, written in by Annabelle Fletcher of Indian River Middle School; Watertown Family YMCA, written in by Lola Johnson of Case Middle School; Roswell P. Flower Memorial Library, written in by Nicolas Orsini of Case Middle School; The Salvation Army Watertown Corps, written in by Blake Sweet of Case Middle School; and Hospice of Jefferson County, which was written in by Rohan Bolla. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This program continues to encourage students at an early age to consider what their role may be in the betterment of their community," said Rande S. Richardson, Community Foundation executive director, in a news release. "We know that this is helping plant the seeds that will grow over time and perpetuate a tradition of civic engagement and investment." Other organizations receiving $1,000 worth of funding include the Lewis County Agricultural Society, which was written in by Cally Shaw of Lowville Academy and Central School; Ogdensburg Public Library, which was written in by Olivia Nowell of Lisbon Central School; Canton Free Library, written in by Li Lin of Canton Central School; and Morristown Backpack Program, which was written in by Brianna Colby of Morristown Central School. A news release states the purpose of the challenge is to "engage youths as they explore the meaning of community and are empowered to recommend grants to support their concepts that strengthen the quality of life in the region." Students each had to write an essay that states what their definition of community is and explain what makes it a good place to be. They then were asked to name a charitable organization that makes their community a better place to live. The Community Foundation says it will work with the students to coordinate visits to their charitable agencies to present the grants and learn more about the organizations they chose. Valparaiso plans for the winter weather season While winter snow accumulation patterns have adjusted over the last five years during the months of January and February, Valparaiso City Services is continually monitoring the weather for snow, sleet, ice and cold temperatures that impact public safety and transportation. The winter event priority map is available at: tinyurl.com/ValpoWeather. Valparaiso reminds residents of the following procedures in winter weather events. Per city ordinances, vehicles must be removed from city streets when there is 2 or more inches of snow. Park vehicles in garages, driveways, or parking lots until the streets are cleared of snow. Do not push snow into the roads for your safety and the safety of others. The plowing process inevitably results in some snow being pushed back into already cleared driveways. (Please note that Public Works will not remove snow from driveway entrances.) To reduce the chance of this happening and creating more work for residents, Public Works recommends that residents clear an open area to the left of their driveway. This open area gives the street snow a place to land without blocking driveways. During winter weather events, main thoroughfares and emergency routes will be cleared first and will remain the focus in overnight hours. Side streets, neighborhoods and cul-de-sacs will be cleared once the emergency routes are safe to travel. Keep an eye on neighbors, particularly seniors and others who may have difficulty clearing snow or accessing help. The Valparaiso Police Department offers a Contact Assistance Referral Program (CARE) to check on residents with special needs when the weather is severe. To register yourself or a loved one, contact Natalie Kasberger at nkasberger@valpopd.com or 219-462-2135. Four Chesterton HS students named Class of 2025 Rising Stars of Indiana The Indiana Association of School Principals (IASP) has announced the Class of 2025 Rising Stars of Indiana. Each Indiana high school was invited to recognize up to four students currently in the eleventh grade, based on their academic achievement. Among the 940 high school Juniors from 235 schools being honored are four Chesterton High School junior recipients: Mara Huneryager, Mackenzie Kania, Patrick Mochen and Jany Zhang. The IASP congratulates these students on all they have achieved, and offers support and encouragement as they continue their accomplishments well into the future. Dunes Arts Foundation presents The Writers Room The Dunes Arts Foundation will offer two introductory sessions of The Writers Room from 1 to 3 p.m. CT on Jan. 25 and Feb. 8 at the Michigan City Public Library, 100 E. Fourth St., Michigan City. After these two introductory sessions, the members will meet in smaller writing groups every third Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Michigan City Public Library. The Writers Room project will provide opportunities for showcasing new work, collaboration, and professional and artistic development for writers through an ongoing series of monthly meetings and special events. Membership is open to all writers in the following areas: playwrights, poets, fiction and nonfiction writers and lyricists. The project also is open to those in the literary arts who are interested in exploring contemporary themes and issues of diversity in their own creative writing. There is no cost for membership. For more information and to register, visit dunesARTS.org/writers, email dunestheatre@gmail.com or call 219-879-7509. Presentation, concert explores railroads history The Valparaiso Chain of Lakes Watershed Group will host an audio-visual presentation and brass band concert exploring the history of the Valparaiso and Northern Interurban Railroad at 2 p.m. Sunday at First Christian Church, 1507 E. Glendale Road, Valparaiso. The event coincides with an exhibit at the Porter County Museum, The V&N: Porter Countys Electric Interurban Rail Line. Built in the early 1900s, the Interurban Railroad accommodated tourists and vacationers visiting hotels and cottages along the Valparaiso Chain of Lakes. The 30-piece South Shore Brass Band has teamed up with the Valparaiso Chain of Lakes Watershed Group to offer this historical presentation including a live musical program and performance by the Indiana Ballet Theatre covering the era from 1911 to 1938, the heyday of the Interurban railroad. The event is free, handicap accessible and open to the public. Volunteers needed to help with this event. For additional information call or text Walt Breitinger at 219-477-7526. Registration open for Valpos Beacon Engineering Academy Registration for Valparaiso Universitys Beacon Engineering Academy is now open. The camp will take place from June 22-28, 2025 and is open to students entering the 10th or 11th grade. This hands-on week will allow participants to explore the world of engineering through projects, activities and team challenges. Two options will be available: an overnight camp from June 22 to 28, and a day camp from June 23 to 27. Cost per-student is $800 for the overnight camp and $400 for the day-camp, with a limited number of partial scholarships are available for qualifying participants. Led by expert engineering faculty and current undergraduate students, the overnight camp features four key components: introductions to various engineering fields, development of real-world skills, social activities and collaborative large-scale engineering projects. Returning projects include robotics, biomechanics and prosthetics challenges, along with a new environmental engineering project. Participants are encouraged to have completed courses in physics or chemistry prior to attending. For more information, details about scholarships, or to apply to attend, click https://www.valpo.edu/college-of-engineering/engineering-camp/. For any questions regarding Beacon Engineering Academy, contact engineering.camp@valpo.edu. WASHINGTON Four years ago, a violent mob stormed the U.S. Capitol and assaulted more than 100 police officers in an attempt to prevent the 2020 election certification, a bloody attack on Congress that shook the foundation of American democracy. On Monday, the only danger lawmakers had to contend with as they worked to certify Donald Trumps 2024 election win was a snowy commute and the icy steps of the Capitol building. A little chilly, Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), bundled up in coat and scarf, remarked upon entering the building Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im not walking into a building that is about to be bludgeoned by rioters, Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) told HuffPost. I hope nobody takes for granted how normal this feels. Had Kamala Harris won, I know a lot of our lives would likely be in jeopardy once again today. Unlike four years ago, when Trump falsely claimed the election had been rigged against him and called on his supporters to march on the Capitol, Harris did not cry foul and Democrats raised no objections to the Electoral College result. Instead, the vice president presided over what had long been a formality, at least before Trump. The certification started Monday with a procession to the House chamber that included senators, wooden ballot boxes and the vice president. A team of six staffers inspected the state certificates, then tellers read the state results in alphabetical order. The entire process took a little more than half an hour. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like other vice presidents who were unsuccessful at winning the White House, Harris formalized her own loss in the November election. She did so as constitutionally required, even though she once called Trump a fascist who is uniquely unqualified for the presidency. This duty is a sacred obligation one I will uphold guided by love of country, loyalty to our Constitution and my unwavering faith in the American people, Harris said in a video posted online Monday. During the proceedings, Harris read from a formal script, offering no commentary. Lawmakers were cordial on both sides, with some cheering as their state results were announced. At the end, Harris said Trump had won 312 electoral college votes to her own 226. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This announcement of the state of the vote by the president of the Senate, Harris said, referring to herself, shall be deemed a sufficient declaration of the persons elected president and vice president of the United States. Though there were no disruptions, and no significant threats, the government erected a much more formidable security apparatus around the Capitol, including a perimeter of tall black fences. It is now also much harder for members of Congress to force a vote to overturn state election results. Congress passed a law in the wake of the Jan. 6 riot raising the threshold for an objection from just one member from the House and Senate to one-fifth of both chambers. Four years ago, then-President Trump held a rally near the White House, urged his supporters to fight like hell and encouraged them to go to the Capitol, where they pushed aside waist-high barricades, overwhelmed police and stormed the building. Inside, Republicans had objected to the ballots, prompting the House and Senate to break into separate sessions to consider and ultimately reject the objections, which were based on unfounded fraud concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 1,500 people have been charged with crimes for their actions that day, including hundreds for violently attacking police, and Trump himself for gathering the mob as part of his broader scheme to undo the 2020 election. Trump has vowed that he would pardon the rioters as soon as he takes the oath of office later this month. That could include more than 1,000 peoplecharged in relation to the Jan. 6 riot, according to Bloomberg. On the eve of the anniversary, President Joe Biden criticized efforts to erase the history of the Jan. 6 riot and decried what he calls an unrelenting effort to downplay the mob violence. We should commit to remembering Jan. 6, 2021, every year, Biden wrote in an opinion piece published Sunday in The Washington Post. To remember it as a day when our democracy was put to the test and prevailed. To remember that democracy even in America is never guaranteed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some Republicans sought to trivialize the riot by Trump supporters. In a social media post, Rep. Mike Collins (R-Ga.) described the storming of the Capitol as thousands of peaceful grandmothers gathered in Washington, D.C., to take a self-guided, albeit unauthorized, tour of the U.S. Capitol building. Many Democrats bitterly noted the contrast between Mondays proceedings and the way they went four years ago. Im feeling angry about the fact that this is going to be strawberry ice cream and puppies because Trump won, and if Trump had lost wed be in body armor and protected by the 82nd Airborne, Rep. Jim Himes (D-Conn.) told HuffPost. That tells you something about the difference between the two parties. Related... WASHINGTON In a brief and seamless ceremony Monday afternoon, the U.S. Congress affirmed President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance winners of the 2024 presidential election. Four years after pro-Trump rioters stormed the Capitol and delayed the certification of the election for over 14 hours, Mondays ceremony lasted just 30 minutes, interrupted only by cheers and applause from the members themselves, in support of their candidates. This year, the scene was calm outside the Capitol. The complex was surrounded by fencing and a large police presence, and the streets were largely empty, blanketed by five inches of snow from a massive storm the previous night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vice President Kamala Harris presided over the joint session in her role as president of the Senate, marking just the third time in U.S. history a losing presidential candidate presided over Congress as it certified the election for their opponent. In a post on social media, Trump cheered Congress action. CONGRESS CERTIFIES OUR GREAT ELECTION VICTORY TODAY A BIG MOMENT IN HISTORY, Trump wrote. MAGA! Trump won Novembers vote by a narrow margin 49.9% of the popular vote, to Harris 48.4% but his sweep of all seven battleground states delivered him a landslide electoral victory. He secured 312 Electoral College votes, and Harris won 226. During Mondays ceremony, members frequently stood to applaud when their states votes were announced, and the applause was loudest for the decisive battleground states, like Pennsylvanias 19 votes and Wisconsins 10 votes. There were no objections to any states electoral votes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2022, Congress passed the Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act of 2022, in an attempt to prevent delayed certification, as occurred in 2021. The bill raised the threshold for members of Congress to object to electoral votes: any objection must be supported by one-fifth of the Senate and one-fifth of the House, instead of by a single member. Further, the law clarified that the vice presidents position is solely ministerial, and has no power to overturn the votes. In 2021, Trump pressured then-Vice President Mike Pence to unlawfully interfere with the election results, which Pence declined to do. At the conclusion of Mondays ceremony, when the total of 312 Electoral College votes were declared for Trump and Vance, the Republican side of the chamber erupted into applause and cheers. Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., reads the certification for Alabama during a joint session of Congress to confirm the Electoral College votes, affirming President-elect Donald Trump's victory in the presidential election, Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, at the U.S. Capitol in Washington. | Matt Rourke Utah delegation responds to Trumps victory As each states votes were called, Rep. Burgess Owens shot a group text to the rest of the Utah delegation saying he would stand and applaud when the states votes were announced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On cue, the four U.S. House members from Utah scattered across the Republican side of the chamber stood and applauded when the six Utah votes were confirmed. Rep. Celeste Maloy, R-Utah, said Mondays ceremony was painless and drama free. I think a lot of people were hoping for more excitement, but it just went along like clockwork, Maloy said, shortly after exiting the chamber. She represents Utahs 3rd District. Rep. Burgess Owens in a statement to the Deseret News thanked Trump for giving Congress a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver on the America First agenda. From securing our borders and rebuilding our economy to restoring law and order and unlocking the American Dream for every child in every zip code, House Republicans are ready to fight, ready to lead, and ready to win, said Owens, a Republican who represents Utahs 4th District. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The newest member of Utahs delegation, Rep. Mike Kennedy, R-Utah, said in a statement to the Deseret News, It was an honor to have the opportunity to vote to certify the 2024 election results. Kennedy, who represents Utahs 3rd District, said he looked forward to working with the Trump administration. He is filling the seat left vacant by Rep. John Curtis, who now represents Utah in the Senate. In a statement to the Deseret News, Rep. Blake Moore, R-Utah, said, It was an honor to certify President Trumps historic election victory today, and House Republicans are ready to move on our shared agenda and bring real results to the American people. He is the vice chair of the Republican conference and represents Utahs 1st District. WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) Vice President Kamala Harris presided over a joint session of Congress Monday where lawmakers voted to certify former president Donald Trumps election. The certification was a stark contrast to the one on January 6, 2021, when rioters stormed the Capitol. Despite a snowstorm, senators and representatives filled the House floor and certified the 2024 election results without issue. With Inauguration Day two weeks away, Vice President Harris stood at the head of the House floor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In less than an hour, the votes were counted. Road closures in DC for Jan. 6 election certification, Jimmy Carters funeral On this January 6 many Democrats looked back to four years ago when rioters stormed the Capitol during this very process. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) says Democrats would not repeat history. On this January 6, our side will not engage in election denialism, said Schumer. President-elect Trump is considering pardons for those who breached the Capitol. Michigan Republican Tom Barrett supports that. The privilege to pardon is one that rests entirely with the President of the United States, said Barrett. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Massachusetts Democrat Jake Auchincloss says that should not happen. They should not get pardoned, said Auchincloss. With the certification complete, President-elect Donald Trump is set for his inauguration on January 20th. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, was a peaceful, snowy day at the U.S. Capitol, as Congress certified Republican President-elect Donald Trump as the winner of last years election. Like most elections in American history, the process was a routine affair that took place without objections or drama. It drew a sharp contrast with the same day four years ago, when a mob of Trumps supporters stormed the Capitol, determined to overturn his loss to President Joe Biden. Advertisement Advertisement Lawmakers were rushed to safety as the mob entered the Capitol, delaying the certification vote until nighttime. In the end, 147 Republican lawmakers, including four from Arizona, objected to certifying the electoral votes in states that Trump lost to Biden. Arizonas House Democrats noted the contrast on Monday. Our democracy is fragile, Rep. Greg Stanton, D-Ariz., said in a written statement. Four years ago today, I stood on the floor of the House to defend the will of Arizonas votersjust hours after insurrectionists violently stormed the Capitol to try to prevent the peaceful transfer of power. Advertisement Advertisement January 6, 2021 is a reminder that we cant take this democracy for granted, U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., wrote. It requires trust in one another, humility in defeat, and honesty from our leaders. When the mob attacked, Gallego memorably stood on a chair on the House floor, his tie askew, instructing people how to put on gas masks. Newly sworn-in Rep. Yassamin Ansari, D-Ariz., posted a photo of the proceedings from the House floor. No chaos, no violence, she wrote. Arizona Republicans focus on Trumps victory Arizona Republicans played a role in the unrest that led up to the riot four years ago. Following the 2020 election, Reps. Andy Biggs and Paul Gosar, both R-Ariz., encouraged baseless conspiracy theories about election fraud in Arizona and other swing states. Advertisement Advertisement Gosar was objecting to the certification of Arizonas 2020 election results when the mob broke into the Capitol. What to know: Arizonans were at the center of events on Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington Ali Alexander, an organizer of the rally, credited the two House Republicans with coming up with the idea of a rally, saying they schemed up the plan to put pressure on other lawmakers not to certify the election result. Biggs has emphatically denied those claims. This year, after an election that went in their partys favor, Arizonas GOP representatives focused instead on Trumps win. Victory = certified, Biggs wrote on social media. Advertisement Advertisement Reps. Juan Ciscomani, Eli Crane and Abe Hamadeh, who werent in office at the time of the Jan. 6, 2021 attack, expressed excitement to work with the new administration. Ciscomani posted a photo of himself with Vice President-elect JD Vance while Hamadeh praised the certification as a pivotal moment in our democratic process that underscores the enduring strength of our Constitution. 'Here for Trump!': What happened to Arizonans from the Jan. 6 Capitol attack? This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Congress certifies Trump win: Here's what Arizona's delegation said Donald Trumps victory over Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris in Novembers presidential election will be formally certified by a joint-session of Congress on Monday, the occasion coinciding with the fourth anniversary of the Capitol riot of January 6 2021. One of the darkest days in American history, the date will live in infamy for the violent scenes that erupted between Trump supporters and local law enforcement on the steps of the Capitol, clashes that resulted in the deaths of five people and left many more injured as the legislative complex was invaded and vandalized for the first time since British colonial soldiers set fire to the building in 1814. The rioters from the so-called Stop the Steal movement, many of whom were armed, had been fired up by the 45th and soon to be 47th presidents false claims that he had been cheated out of a second term by a nationwide conspiracy to rig the 2020 vote in Joe Bidens favor, which he continues to insist took place despite failing to produce any evidence to substantiate his version of events. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After listening to a Trump address at the Ellipse in which he ordered his supporters to fight like hell, they duly marched on the Capitol and brawled with outnumbered police officers, smashing windows and eventually forcing their way inside in an attempt to bring a halt to the same ceremony that will take place on Monday. The would-be insurrectionists were particularly enraged by then-vice president Mike Pences refusal to weaponize his role as master of ceremonies and subvert the formal recognition of the results from the states, as Trump had publicly called upon him to do. Feeling betrayed, the participants chanted Hang Mike Pence! and erected a makeshift gallows on Capitol Hill for precisely that purpose as lawmakers were sent running for their lives in shocking scenes that saw characters like the buffalo-bonetted QAnon shamen Jacob Chansely crash the cradle of democracy and ransack lawmakers offices. While Trump was slow to call off his dogs preferring to watch the drama unfold live on TV instead, ignoring pleas to intervene from his own panicked aides and allies order was finally restored and the representatives and senators were able to return safely to their places and complete their duties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since then, almost 1,600 people, including members of the far-right militia groups the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers, have been prosecuted for their role in the uprising, according to the FBI. Stop the Steal protesters gather outside the US Capitol in Washington DC on January 6 2021 (AP) However, Trump, who was impeached for an unprecedented second time before mounting the extraordinary political comeback that led him back to the White House, has said he plans to pardon the participants as soon as he returns to office on January 20. Todays ceremony, by contrast, is expected to be largely uneventful, reports The Washington Post, barring the onset of a major snowstorm that is forecast to hit Washington DC. That said, security fences have been erected around the Capitols perimeter and law enforcement is on full alert, with some officers billeted in local hotels overnight to ensure they can report for duty on Monday morning unimpeded by the possible blizzard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition, 500 members of the DC National Guard reportedly stand ready to intervene if needed. As required by federal law, the process of certification begins with the transportation of the states electoral vote records in mahogany boxes to the House of Representatives, where they will be unsealed at 1pm ET (6pm GMT) and read aloud in alphabetical order, from Alabama to Wyoming. Given that the duty of presiding over the process falls to the vice president, whose role was more tightly defined by the passage of the Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act of 2022, Harris will be in the unfortunate position of having to formalize her own defeat. But unlike Trump and the Republicans in 2020, she and her fellow Democrats have not contested Novembers result, preferring instead to accept the outcome with good grace. Rioters storm the West Front of the US Capitol on January 6 2021 (AP) The Electoral Count Act also serves to make it tougher for members of the House and Senate to raise spurious objections to the states results, requiring at least one-fifth of those taking part to take exception before a protest can be investigated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also makes it more difficult for Congress to change the date of the ceremony, with newly-re-elected House speaker Mike Johnson confirming on Sunday that there are no plans to suspend the vote in light of the imminent snowfall. Once the results are certified, the president-elects inauguration ceremony can go ahead on the western steps of the Capitol in precisely two weeks time as scheduled. Reflecting on the events of four years ago in an editorial for the Post on Monday, Biden told America its way of life had been sorely tested that day but prevailed. We should be proud that our democracy withstood this assault. And we should be glad we will not see such a shameful attack again this year, he wrote. But we should not forget. We must remember the wisdom of the adage that any nation that forgets its past is doomed to repeat it. The congressional joint session to count electoral votes on Monday is expected to be much less eventful than the certification four years ago that was interrupted by a violent mob of supporters of then-President Donald Trump who tried to stop the count and overturn the results of an election he lost to Democrat Joe Biden. This time, Trump is returning to office after winning the 2024 election that began with Biden as his partys nominee and ended with Vice President Kamala Harris atop the ticket. She will preside over the certification of her own loss, fulfilling the constitutional role in the same way that Trumps vice president, Mike Pence, did after the violence subsided on Jan. 6, 2021. Usually a routine affair, the congressional joint session on Jan. 6 every four years is the final step in reaffirming a presidential election after the Electoral College officially elects the winner in December. The meeting is required by the Constitution and includes several distinct steps. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A look at the joint session: What happens when Congress meets? Under federal law, Congress must meet Jan. 6 to open sealed certificates from each state that contain a record of their electoral votes. The votes are brought into the chamber in special mahogany boxes that are used for the occasion. Bipartisan representatives of both chambers read the results out loud and do an official count. The vice president, as president of the Senate, presides over the session and declares the winner. The Constitution requires Congress to meet and count the electoral votes. If there is a tie, then the House decides the presidency, with each congressional delegation having one vote. That hasnt happened since the 1800s, and wont happen this time because Trumps electoral win over Harris was decisive, 312-226. How has it changed since the last time? Congress tightened the rules for the certification after the violence of 2021 and Trumps attempts to usurp the process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In particular, the revised Electoral Count Act passed in 2022 more explicitly defines the role of the vice president after Trump aggressivelypushed Pence to try and object to the Republicans defeat an action that would have gone far beyond Pences ceremonial role. Pence rebuffed Trump and ultimately gaveled down his own defeat. Harris will do the same. The updated law clarifies that the vice president does not have the power to determine the results on Jan. 6. Harris and Pence were not the first vice presidents to be put in the uncomfortable position of presiding over their own defeats. In 2001, Vice President Al Gore presided over the counting of the 2000 presidential election that he narrowly lost to Republican George W. Bush. Gore had to gavel several Democrats objections out of order. In 2017, Biden as vice president presided over the count that declared Trump the winner. Biden also shot down objections from House Democrats that did not have any Senate support. How does the session unfold? The presiding officer opens and presents the certificates of the electoral votes in alphabetical order of the states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The appointed tellers from the House and Senate, members of both parties, then read each certificate out loud and record and count the votes. At the end, the presiding officer announces who has won the majority votes for both president and vice president. What if theres an objection? After a teller reads the certificate from any state, a lawmaker can stand up and object to that states vote on any grounds. But the presiding officer will not hear the objection unless it is in writing and signed by one-fifth of each chamber. That threshold is significantly higher than what came before. Previously, a successful objection only required support from one member of the Senate and one member of the House. Lawmakers raised the threshold in the 2022 law to make objections more difficult. If any objection reaches the threshold something not expected this time the joint session suspends and the House and Senate go into separate sessions to consider it. For the objection to be sustained, both chambers must uphold it by a simple majority vote. If they do not agree, the original electoral votes are counted with no changes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2021, both the House and Senate rejected challenges to the electoral votes in Arizona and Pennsylvania. Before 2021, the last time that such an objection was considered had been 2005, when Rep. Stephanie Tubbs Jones of Ohio and Sen. Barbara Boxer of California, both Democrats, objected to Ohios electoral votes, claiming there were voting irregularities. Both the House and Senate debated the objection and easily rejected it. It was only the second time such a vote had occurred. Once Congress counts the votes, whats next? After Congress certifies the vote, the president is inaugurated on the west front of the Capitol on Jan. 20. The joint session is the last official chance for objections, beyond any challenges in court. Harris has conceded and never disputed Trumps win. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW Members of the Congressional Black Caucus raise their right hands as they are being sworn in by New York Attorney General Letitia James on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by William J. Ford/Maryland Matters) WASHINGTON, D.C. With a record 62 elected Black officials, including historic firsts of two women senators and two representatives from Alabama, the Congressional Black Caucus held a swearing-in ceremony Friday morning before members took the oath of office for the 119th U.S. Congress. Democrats Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland and Lisa Blunt Rochester of Delaware will represent the first time two Black women will serve together in the U.S. Senate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The caucus also marked the historic election of two Black U.S. House members from Alabama serving at the same time. Incumbent Rep. Terri Sewell has been joined by Shomari Figures, who was elected in November to represent the new 2nd Congressional District. Following a lawsuit, a federal court ordered the state in 2022 to draw a second opportunity district to provide a chance for Black voters to select their preferred candidate. The U.S. Supreme Court upheld the lower courts ruling in 2023. U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Ala.) gives remarks Jan. 3 during swearing-in ceremony of the Congressional Black Caucus, which will have its largest membership of 62 members. Sewell, a Democrat, recalled how the caucus was first established in 1971 with 13 members 12 men and one woman. Today, a total of 67 Black lawmakers serve in Congress, the largest contingent ever on Capitol Hill. But the five Republicans Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina and Reps. Byron Donalds of Florida, Wesley Hunt of Texas, John James of Michigan and Burgess Owens of Utah are not members of the Congressional Black Caucus and didnt attend the ceremony. All are ardent supporters of Republican President-elect Donald Trump. With the GOP in control of the House and Senate, they have stated their support for Trumps future policies and even a few of his controversial statements. Although the Black caucus isnt tied to a political party, the Democratic members said they will continue to challenge legislation they deem will negatively affect Black Americans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, we renew our pledge to fight racism where it exists, to weed out inequities in health care, the criminal justice system, education, voter access, and so many rights and benefits that are part and parcel of what it means to be Americans, said Sewell, who serves as chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundations board of directors. We, in the Congressional Black Caucus, stand ready for the task ahead. Rep. Glenn Ivey, a Maryland Democrat, said hes concerned about the Trump administration or his appointees using the U.S. Justice Department to get back at people they think are enemies. Thats not the role of the Department of Justice, he said. Protecting the rule of law is what weve got to make sure happens now and going forward. U.S. Rep. Glenn Ivey (D-Md.) speaks with reporters Jan. 3 after Congressional Black Caucus ceremonial swearing-in event at The Anthem in Washington, D.C. (Photo by William J. Ford/Maryland Matters) Ivey said that one way to combat Trump and his congressional allies is looking ahead to the 2026 midterm elections. I can remember back a few years ago where the Republicans controlled the White House, the Senate and the House. A few years after that, [then U.S. Sen.] Barack Obama got elected president, and we took back control of the Senate and the House, Ivey said after the ceremony. So a setback is a set up for a comeback. Were ready to come back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hundreds of family members, friends and supporters attended the ceremony at The Anthem including Marc Morial, president and chief executive officer of the National Urban League. Morial said in an interview just because Trump will be president doesnt mean the caucus stops its advocacy work. They should say to the president, if you want to meet us halfway on important priorities like voting rights, elimination of poverty, we will not say no, Morial said. But if your plan is to administer solely to your MAGA base, we will lead the resistance. WEST HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) Millions of Americans will soon see a boost in social security payments thanks to an act signed into law by President Joe Biden Sunday evening. With just two weeks left in office, President Bidens swan song was to put pen to paper. Provide security for workers who dedicate their lives to their community and Im proud to have played a small part in the signing, said President Biden. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Social Security Fairness Act was officially signed into law Sunday with millions of Americans expected to see higher payments in 2025. There were several Connecticut activists in the room, including a West Hartford woman who spoke alongside the President. Former Connecticut Sen. Chris Dodd receives Presidential Citizens Medal Almost 2.5 million Americans will now receive their rightfully earned social security benefits, said Connecticut Alliance for Retired Americans President Bette Marafino. Marafino led efforts to repeal two provisions of the prior law that limited these benefits: The Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset that impacted retirees and also their spouses and family members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Marafino wasnt the only Connecticut resident who made the trip down to D.C. Connecticut Education Association President Kate Dias said at the event, Its just overwhelming to be honest with you, to know that you were a part of something that changes the lives of millions of Americans is honestly probably a once in a lifetime feeling. New state program to provide student loan relief to Connecticut residents Dias said more than 32,000 people in the state are not receiving their full social security benefits and this Act will change that, primarily impacting teachers, police officers, firefighters and public servants who are eligible for other pensions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you have the maximum penalty, that could be up to 600 dollars a month, Dias said. We made the world a better place for these people. We made it so they could retire. The bipartisan bill also calls for back-payments from January 2024 and beyond. But calculating what Americans are due, and retroactive payments, will take some time. During the bill signing, President Biden said itll happen this year with the average increase around 360 dollars a month. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Connecticuts top federal prosecutor will resign hours before Donald Trump takes office, she announced Monday. Vanessa Roberts Avery began her role as U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut in 2022. She plans to resign at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 17, the Justice Department announced. Trumps inauguration is scheduled for 9 a.m. the following Monday, Jan. 20. Avery was the first Black woman to serve as U.S. Attorney for Connecticut. She earned the appointment from President Biden after working as an assistant attorney in the federal office from 2014 to 2019 and at top positions in the Connecticut Attorney Generals office from 2019 to 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as United States Attorney, and I am profoundly appreciative of President Biden for trusting me to serve our nation and the people of Connecticut in this position, Avery said Monday in a statement. Averys resignation is the latest in a series of Biden-appointed U.S. attorneys throughout the tristate area. Manhattan U.S. Attorney Damian Williams, Brooklyn U.S. Attorney Breon Peace and New Jersey U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger all announced plans to step down in November and December, after Trumps electoral victory. In her resignation letter, Avery stressed her commitment to community engagement throughout Connecticut as a means to reduce crime. She did not announce her follow-up plans. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marc Silverman will take over after Avery departs the office. Marc and the Offices superb supervisory team have the highest professional and ethical standards, Avery said, and together with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners will ensure that the administration of justice will seamlessly continue in our District. Alex Titcomb, co-founder of The Dinner Table PAC, speaks at a press conference before delivering petition signatures to the Department of the Maine Secretary of State on Jan. 6, 2025. (Photo by AnnMarie Hilton/ Maine Morning Star) The Star-Spangled Banner rang through the halls of the State House Monday afternoon as volunteers from the Voter ID for ME campaign sang as they carried more than a dozen boxes full of petition signatures to the Maine Secretary of States office. Requiring an ID to vote is not radical, said state Rep. Laurel Libby (R-Auburn) at a press conference. Alternately, she said such rules are common sense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In April, The Dinner Table PAC founded by Libby and activist Alex Titcomb in 2021 with a mission to create a conservative majority in the Maine House of Representatives launched the campaign to require voters to show photo identification at the polls. However, the petition submitted Monday would make changes to additional aspects of Maine election law, such as absentee voting. Critics of the effort fear the proposals would lower voter turnout in a state known for strong democratic participation. Over 600 volunteers with the campaign gathered more than 170,000 signatures from all 16 counties, Titcomb said. That is well above the 67,682 signatures needed to get on the November 2025 ballot (per the states requirement of having 10% of the total votes cast in the most recent gubernatorial election). Those signatures will now be certified by the Maine Department of the Secretary of State. The effort is in line with a national push from Republicans to require identification at the polls. They argue it will decrease the risk of fraud and increase confidence in the election result. However, opponents have pushed back saying it fosters anti-immigrant sentiment and feeds an unfounded fear of widespread voter fraud. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About two-thirds of states already require identification at the polls, but Maine does not. Previous attempts to implement such a requirement in Maine have been unsuccessful, including a 2023 bill sponsored by former state Sen. Matt Pouliot (R-Kennebec) that was ultimately rejected by Democratic leadership. How many times does the Legislature need to hear the will of the people before they act? Libby said. She added that more than 170,000 signatures isnt just a few people coming to a public hearing or whispering from various corners of Maine, that is a thunderous roar. Thats why Titcomb and Libby want to take this issue directly to the voters by having it appear as a citizens initiative on the upcoming November ballot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Secretary of States Office has 30 days to certify the signatures; however, Secretary of State Shenna Bellows said the five-page petition submitted to her office is a wolf in sheeps clothing. Bellows has historically opposed proposals requiring voters to show certain documents to cast ballots, but she previously told Maine Morning Star that her office will always administer the constitutionally protected citizens initiative process fairly. Maine voters are already required to show proof of identification and residency when they register to vote. Bellows has said that requiring documentation at the polls can create long lines and confusing logistics. In addition to including language to require identification at the time of voting, Bellows explained that it also changes other aspects of Maine elections including absentee voting and the process to challenge a ballot. And because it is a citizens initiative, Bellows said the text of the petition has to go to voters as is. It cant be amended before appearing on the ballot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though Bellows said reasonable people can agree to disagree on the policy of showing identification at the time of voting, she is concerned by the other aspects of the proposal. Titcomb described those additional changes as minor and said they are designed to increase trust in elections. Bellows argued the petition would politicize the election process. Currently, municipal clerks which is not a partisan position are responsible for collecting the content of absentee ballot drop boxes. The petition seeks to change that to a bipartisan team of election officials. Details on how those teams would be decided and formed are not outlined in the petition. Bellows also said the proposal would make absentee voting harder, such as by repealing the provision allowing immediate family members to drop off ballots for each other. It also wants to roll back ongoing absentee voting, which allows voters to have absentee ballots mailed to them automatically for each election cycle. This option was implemented last February for voters over the age of 65 who self-identify as having a disability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, the petition would remove the option for municipalities to get approval for multiple ballot drop boxes, instead requiring them to only have one. The petition also seeks to change the process for challenging someones right to vote. Under current law, it is up to a challenger to prove that someone doesnt have the right to vote in a certain election. Challenged voters may still cast a ballot, but it is marked as being challenged so that it can be reviewed in the event of a close race. The petition wants to shift the burden of proof onto the person who is being challenged, Bellows explained. Bellows did, however, say she supports the part of the petition that seeks to provide Mainers with free nondriver identification cards. The League of Women Voters of Maine is also opposed to the citizens initiative, saying it would be a highly restrictive voter suppression referendum. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its disappointing to see Mainers try to impose these barriers on their fellow Mainers right to vote, when this state is justly proud of its high voter participation rates, said Executive Director Anna Kellar in a statement last week. These restrictions can and will harm every type of voter. Specifically, the League says the photo ID requirement would disenfranchise elderly, poor, disabled and rural voters across Maine. It also opposes rolling back the ongoing absentee voting option for older Mainers. At the press conference Monday, Libby said that tying a requirement to show identification at the polls to voter suppression is an empty scare tactic. Requiring an ID to vote is no different than requiring an ID to drive a car, to board a plane or to buy a bottle of wine, she said. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Corey Pritchett Jr. has been accused of kidnapping women in Texas, but the YouTuber has denied the claims. The Huffington Post previously reported that Pritchett was accused of kidnapping a woman in Texas and then allegedly escaping to Qatar. The content creator was charged in December 2024 with one count of aggravated kidnapping, allegedly taking two unnamed women on a dangerous high-speed car ride and threatening their lives as a result. The outlet reports that the incident happened in November in Houston, four days before Thanksgiving. A complaint filed by the women involved states that Pritchett had plans to take them to ride all-terrain vehicles and bowling, but was met with a slightly unhinged version of the YouTuber. The ladies then told him they were no longer feeling the outing and wanted Corey to leave the bowling alley, to which he complied. They then sent the content creator a message letting him know that they had left some of their belongings in his car. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the women got into the car to retrieve their goods, Pritchett allegedly drove off with them still inside, reaching up to 100 miles per hour, and began brandishing a firearm out his vehicles sunroof. The women became increasingly alarmed and feared for their safety after Pritchett allegedly told them, Im gonna f**k yall and then kill yall. Corey then allegedly confiscated the womens phones, shot the gun out the window, and then pointed the gold gun at the two ladies. The complaint then claims that the man pulled over on the highway, where he ordered the women to get out, allegedly saying, this is your only opportunity. The women then phoned the police, where the officers used their location-sharing technology to confirm their claims. The app also corroborated the ladies claim of Pritchett reaching the deadly speeds in his car. A couple of weeks later, Corey stated that he was planning to begin a new life, new mindset, new goals, [heal] from past trauma and forgiving anyone who crossed me and apologizing to anyone Ive hurt and that hes moving to Dubai. On Saturday (Jan. 6), the Youtuber returned to Instagram to address the claims head-on. Pritchett posted a screen recording of the kidnapping allegations and vowed to take [the] monsters down for hitting him with these claims. LETTER TO THE INTERNET its finna be a BALL Let the show begin #HoustonTx Let me show you how to take monsters down the #SMOOTH WAY !, Pritchett typed, denying the kidnapping allegations. You see it say ACCUSED right Dont worry lol Im finna give the Details on here & in the Court of Law. They gone REGRET f**king with me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have a case here of Popular YouTuber CoreySSG kidnapping two white girls and hes currently on the run in Dubai I thinkIdk, but yeah, the FBI should be after him ! he typed in a subsequent post, showing what appears to be footage of the all-terrain outing with the ladies. Regardless of the posts online, NBC KPRC has reported that the police are looking into extraditing him to the United States to face charges. Interestingly enough, the content creator posted a new video to his IG showing him on a plane with a caption reading, United States, Im on the way. I have a meeting with Houston. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More from VIBE.com Sign up for Vibe's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. CORNING, N.Y. (WETM) A Corning man was arrested on Friday after running from troopers in what police said was a warrant arrest in the city, according to information from the New York State Police. Todd A. Speicher, 39, was arrested on Friday, Jan. 4, on the following charges, Criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, a class D felony. Criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, a class A misdemeanor. Resisting arrest, a class A misdemeanor. Obstruction of government administration in the second degree, a class A misdemeanor. New law adopted to close unlicensed cannabis shops in Elmira Its alleged that police went to serve an arrest warrant for Speicher after learning he violated his parole with the New York State Department of Community Corrections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Troopers found Speicher leaving a home on East Second Street in Corning where he began walking down the sidewalk. The report states that when Speicher saw troopers he took off on foot, running north along Canisteo Street and then west onto East Second Street before he was finally caught. After he was taken into custody, troopers reported that Speicher had a switchblade, around 1.8 grams of suspected meth, and several pipes containing burnt residue. Speicher was taken to the Steuben County Jail for further processing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A long-time Boeing staffer has spoken out about problematic outsourcing and manufacturing practices that began to become a really big problem for the planemaker. Boeings reputation has been left shaken after a turbulent 2024, which saw an Alaska Airlines 737 Max door plug blow out mid-flight, 33,000 workers go on strike and dozens of whistleblowers speaking out about the quality of parts and manufacturing processes. And just five days into 2025, an Etihad Airways Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner was forced to abort takeoff from Melbourne Airport in Australia due to technical reasons, the airline said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Douglas Dorsey, from Hansville, Washington, worked as a manufacturing engineer at the embattled aerospace company from 1984 before retiring in 2017. The Boeing lifer wrote in a Business Insider essay that he once had blue blood running through my veins. But as Dorsey worked on the Boeing 777 and 787 Dreamliner across the 1990s and 2000s as more manufacturing was outsourced, he said things began to unravel, leading to chaos filtering down the chain of command and substandard work being accepted. Boeing President and CEO Kelly Ortberg was appointed on August 8 by the board of directors (Bloomberg via Getty Images) Within his first 10 years at the company what Dorsey fondly recalled as the good old days he said the chain of command was clear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was no drama with executives, and we had confidence in those in command, he said. But in 1997, Dorsey said that upper management was thrown into disarray upon Boeings merger with McDonnell Douglas, a major American aerospace and defense company before the acquisition. A broad swathe of leadership ranks were filled by McDonnell Douglas veterans not Boeing executives many of whom had backgrounds in finance rather than engineering. It wasnt until working on the Boeing 787 program in the 2000s, Dorsey said, where cracks really began to show in the outsourcing manufacturing tasks to suppliers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I noticed that outsourcing manufacturing tasks to suppliers became a really big problem for Boeing, he said. The Boeing veteran said that at the beginning of each new airplane program, management divided major sections of the aircraft among various subcontractors, suppliers, and risk-sharing partners. To get planes in the sky more quickly, Boeing would have the risk-sharing partners deliver complete aircraft sections to the final assembly site, Dorsey said. A suite of new executives and juggling the management of contractors led to more stilted communications and, subsequently, had a negative impact on production quality. Section of a a Boeing 737 Max where a door plug fell while Alaska Airlines Flight 128 in Janaury 2024 (National Transportation Safety Board) When I worked on the shop floor, I saw the negative impacts of outsourcing to suppliers, such as slower production and delivering incomplete parts, he said. I spent much of my time on the program trying to accommodate parts that had a non-conformance tag on them and had to be reworked and installed into the build. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I wondered what was going on and why we were accepting substandard, incomplete work. Boeing executives failed to take note when employees working on the ground flagged problems and made suggestions about improving processes, Dorsey claimed. As an engineer, I wasnt privy to the decisions going on in the upper chambers of management, but I could see the chaos filtering down, he said. It felt like the company wasnt listening to its mechanics about how to improve processes. The 787 was ultimately delayed by three years, embarking on its first commercial flight in September 2011. Despite his criticism, Kelly believes that CEO KellyOrtberg, who was appointed in August, may be able to steady the ship while helping Boeing overcome its PR problem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I see these actions as baby steps in the right direction. Kelly Ortberg, Boeings CEO, is trying to steer the company on a new course, but I think its going to take a long time, he said. In response to his scathing critique, a Boeing spokesperson shared remarks made by Ortberg in October 2024 with Business Insider. At the time, Ortberg said: Much has been written about how we got to where we are, but most also recognize that Boeing was once a benchmark for what good culture looks like. And I believe we can return to that legacy. I know culture change starts at the top. Our leaders, from me on down, need to be closely integrated with our business and the people who are doing the design and production of our products. We need to be on the factory floors, in the back shops, and in our engineering labs. We need to know whats going on, not only with our products but with our people. The Independent has contacted Boeing for more information. COURTESY PHOTO Calvin Say : In his final term he proposed a measure that would delay work at the Sand Island Wastewater Treatment plant COURTESY PHOTO Calvin Say : In his final term he proposed a measure that would delay work at the Sand Island Wastewater Treatment plant Near the end of his final term on the Honolulu City Council, Calvin Say offered a piece of legislation with one stated purpose : to relieve Oahu taxpayers from having to pay for one major economic burden thats been in place here for nearly 15 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Says plan under Resolution 24-287, which he introduced in December, would postpone or terminate the City and County of Honolulus federally mandated 2010 consent decree with regard to its wastewater collection system in order to reduce billions of dollars in city spending. But to make any change to that consent decreemeant to prevent untreated sewage from entering Oahus marine and shoreline environmentsis difficult to accomplish, city officials say. Thats because the legally binding agreemententered into by the city, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the state Department of Health on Dec. 17, 2010also mandates extensive improvements, upgrades and preventive maintenance to the citys waste collection system. The work is currently centered on an estimated $2.5 billion full secondary treatment upgrade to the Sand Island Wastewater Treatment Plant at 1350 Sand Island Parkway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The project, which turns contaminated water into recycled water that can be used for things like landscaping, must be completed by 2035, the city said. Don 't miss out on what 's happening ! Stay in touch with top news, as it happens, conveniently in your email inbox. It 's FREE ! Email 28141 Sign Up By clicking to sign up, you agree to Star-Advertiser 's and Google 's and. This form is protected by reCAPTCHA. A similar $536 million upgrade to the citys 45-year-old Honouliuli Wastewater Treatment Plant in Ewa Beach was completed in May. Still, Say believed deferring or delaying work at the Sand Island plant could help taxpayers as they face the citys newly proposed sewer fee hike this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If approved under Bill 60, the city Department of Environmental Services says the planned sewer fee increaseswhich amount to a total increase of 115 % across all rate-paying classes over a decadewould take effect July 1. Overall, the citys proposed sewer rate hikes will start with a 9 % annual adjustment for the first six years, followed by smaller increases of 8 %, 7 %, 6 % and 5 % in the final four years, officials said. Currently, the city says, an average single-family residential sewer bill totals approximately $110.89 a month. By July 1 that bill would rise to $122.05 a month. And by July 2034, the city predicts, the average monthly sewer bill will be $248.53a 124.1 % increase from the current average sewer bill. Rate hikes for commercial or nonresidential customers mirror the increase to residents, city officials say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city said these rate increases are necessary to address rising operational costs and fund critical projects within ENVs $10.1 billion capital improvement program, scheduled from 2025 to 2040. According to Resolution 24-287, the costs of upgrading the citys wastewater system are borne by the citys ratepayers. (The ) increases in sewer rates proposed by the city administration would impose a significant economic hardship on the citys residents, many of whom are already facing such hardship due to the rising costs of housing, goods, and services, among other things, the resolution states. The Council believes that in view of the serious economic hardship on the citys ratepayers that completion of the projects mandated under the 2010 Consent Decree would entail, the city administration should make efforts to seek relief from the strict and economically burdensome terms of the 2010 Consent Decree, particularly with respect to the requirement to upgrade the Sand Island WWTP to full secondary treatment by 2035, the resolution states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Says legislation urges the city administration to initiate discussions with the (EPA and DOH ), and other pertinent parties to terminate or modify the 2010 Consent Decree, particularly with respect to the requirement to upgrade the Sand Island WWTP to full secondary treatment, or at least to extend the compliance deadlines of the 2010 Consent Decree relating to the City and County of Honolulu wastewater system. During the Councils Dec. 11 meeting, ENV Director Roger Babcock testified in support of Says resolution and said the city administration will commit to seeking relief from the consent decree from the U.S. EPA and the Hawaii Department of Health. However, he cautioned that the city could not support the delay in our need for our sewer fee increase that weve proposed because this effort may end up not being successful, Babcock said. This effort, if received well initially from the EPA and the Department of Health, will take several additional steps that will take a significant amount of time. He noted that effort would need to have federal legislation to modify the Clean Water Act in order for a waiver to be received (and ) to necessitate this project not happening. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition, it would require going back into federal court, reopening the settlement and having that modified, Babcock said. And the parties would have to agree to that ; thered be all kinds of filings and procedures that would occur. In reality, relief from this would probably take on the order of years to happen, he said. Separately, we have a very tight schedule to meet the terms of the consent decree, Babcock added. So therefore, we need to insist that this effort is not tied to our sewer fee increase proposal ; we cant delay that effort. There would be very serious consequences if we do not receive relief and also then did not meet the deadlines, he said. There will be fines. We will not be able to meet our bond coverage that we are committed to for our existing sewer bonds that we have out, and it would also directly impact our sewer bond rating. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later, Babcock said an attempt in 2021 to postpone a portion of the consent decree proved unsuccessful. Still, Council Chair Tommy Waters believed the citys request to raise sewer fees in 2025 might not receive approval in a city where the cost of living is already deemed much higher than in other parts of the country. Im not sure youll get the votes to increase the sewer fee, Waters said, alluding to Bill 60s future. Im just not sure, it may fail. So this (resolution ) might be necessary. At his final Council meeting, Say said his resolution was basically to say that the City Council is ready, willing and able to do whatever it can to control the costs of the secondary treatment plant. The total cost to the taxpayers of Oahu will be tremendous, he added, on top of other fee increases that are still pending. Ultimately, the Council adopted Resolution 24-287. Sign up for The Decision, a newsletter featuring coverage of the 2024 race and what comes next. The president of the United States is the countrys chief law-enforcement officer and the symbol of national authority and unity. This incoming president faces a battery of criminal charges relating to his abuse of office and to personal frauds. Hes been convicted of some already; more are pending. He is also the author of a conspiracy to overthrow the 2020 election and seize power by violence. More than 1,000 of his followers have been convicted and sentenced for their roles in his attempted coup detat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These two sets of facts are obviously in considerable tension. How will they be resolved? A strong desire existsnot only among proDonald Trump partisansto wish away the contradiction. Trump will be president again. Every domestic interest group, every faction in Congress, every foreign government will need to do business with him. Its unavoidable; the system cannot operate around him as if he were not there. What cannot be avoided will not be avoided. And because most of us need to believe in what we are doing, almost every institution in American society and the great majority of its wealthiest and most influential citizens will find some way to make peace with Trumps actions on January 6, 2021. Nobody wants to say aloud, The Constitution is all very well up to a point, but the needs of the National Association of Birdhouse Manufacturers must come first. Inevitably, though, our words come into alignment with our interests, and our thoughts then come into alignment with our words. On the ever rarer occasions when the January 6 insurrection is discussed, the excuses will flow more and more readily. Trump didnt conspire. It was just a protest that got out of hand. Only a tiny minority broke any important laws. Surely, they have already been punished enough. Anyway, the George Floyd protests were worse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even Trumps opponents will fall more or less in line. As Democrats try to make sense of their 2024 defeat, some are already arguing that the party paid too much attention to procedural issues: too much talk about democracy, not enough about the price of eggs. Many will argue that the best way to win in 2028 is to attack Trump and his administration as servants of the ultrarichin other words, by dusting off the playbook that Democrats have traditionally run against Republicans. Hillary Clinton, Joe Biden, and Kamala Harris all campaigned against Trump as a kind of aberration; all welcomed the support of non-Trump Republicans. Next time, things are likely to be different. Trump will be lumped together with all of his Republican predecessors, and the way to succeed in the lumping together is by jettisoning the topics on which Trump is unique (violent coups detat) and focusing on the topics where he is not unique (tax cuts for the rich and regulatory favors to corporations). The attempted coup of 2021 will be unhelpful old news in a 2028 cycle defined by performative populism. These imperatives will apply even to that supposed incubator of anti-Trump feeling, the sad dying remnants of what used to be called the mainstream media. (Today, of course, anti-Semitic and anti-vax cranks on YouTube draw much bigger audiences than any program on CNN or MSNBC, so what counts as mainstream or fringe is a very open question.) If youre a normal journalist trying to report on inauguration plans or the staffing of the Cabinet or the administrations first budget, your job depends on access, and access depends on playing ball to a greater or lesser degree. If you keep banging on about an attempted coup that happened four years ago, you are just making yourself irrelevant. And when you encounter somebody else who bangs on about it, you will be tempted to dismiss them as irrelevant, too. The coup makers won. The coup resisters lost. Washington is not a city that spares much sympathy for losers. This never happened, advises Don Draper on the television series Mad Men. It will shock you how much it never happened. So it will be with the first attempt by a serving president to overthrow the government he was sworn to protect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not all of us, however, have to live in the world of Washington transactions. Some of us need to volunteer to keep talking about the inconvenient things. Trump really did try by violence to violate the first rule of constitutional democracy: Respect elections. Constitutional democracy matters, whether or not the theme helps Democratic candidates for federal office, whether or not it energizes media consumers, whether or not it advances the lobbying agenda of the National Association of Birdhouse Manufacturers. Those volunteers dont need to blame those other Washington players for doing what they feel they need to do. The volunteers have only to remain faithful to their purpose: to push back against the Draper doctrine that the unwanted past can be made to disappear. It did happen. It should still shock us how much it did happen. Article originally published at The Atlantic SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) The sentencing of a man convicted of first-degree murder in the death of his ex-girlfriends fiance, a popular Cathedral Catholic High School teacher, has been delayed after he came down with an unidentified illness. Jesse Alvarez, 34, was found guilty by a jury last March for gunning down Mario Fierro as he was leaving his North Park home to head to work on the morning of Feb. 1, 2021. Prosecutors argued Alvarez laid in wait outside Fierros home to ambush him in an attack he planned for two months after he learned of his engagement to his ex-girlfriend, Amy Gembara. Gembara was also a teacher at Cathedral Catholic High School at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police: 19-year-old fatally shot in Lincoln Park Alvarez, who testified during the trial, described having an unhealthy obsession with Gembara before the murder took place. At the time, it had been more than three years after the two had broken up. Prosecutors said Alvarez stalked her, prompting her to move, change her number and seek a restraining order. When he learned of her engagement, he searched on Google how to kill Fierro, including things like how to hire a hitman. FILE: Mario Fierro. (Courtesy of Catholic Diocese of San Diego) Alvarezs defense attorneys argued the murder was not premediated, instead occurring out of self-defense in a scuffle with Fierro when he went to the teachers home to introduce himself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fierro was shot six times, including four times in the head, according to prosecutors. A new date for Alvarezs sentencing has not been set. He faces life in prison without the possibility of parole. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. MAUSTON A 33-year-old woman and two girls, ages 12 and 13, were shot to death and locked in a New Lisbon bedroom together, according to court documents filed Friday in Juneau County Circuit Court. Virgil G. Thew, 47, of New Lisbon, faces three counts of first-degree intentional homicide for the deaths of Elizabeth Kolba and the two girls, who have not been named. Juneau County Circuit Judge Paul Curran issued a warrant for Thew on Friday. According to the criminal complaint, on Dec. 30, the father of the 13-year-old girl reported her missing. He said she had not returned to her Monroe County home the previous night and her SnapChat location was showing her at an address on West Bridge Street in New Lisbon, according to the complaint. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers went to the apartment Thew shared with his mother, whom he cared for, according to the complaint. Kolba, Thew's girlfriend, also lived at the apartment, according to the complaint. Thew's mother said she last saw the 13-year-old girl with a 12-year-old girl, who was Thew's stepdaughter. The police chief went to the New Lisbon home of the 12-year-old girl's mother, but the girl was not there. The mother said she should be at the home of Thew and his mother. About 12:30 p.m. Dec. 30, a property owner reported a trespasser the previous day on his Juneau County property. Police learned from trail cameras it was Thew. A neighbor also told police about a car he had seen that morning on a logging road. The car belonged to Thew. PHOTOS: Central Wisconsin Ice Racing Association hosts motor races on Lake Petenwell Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local health care news: Meet Dr. Dolly Paw-ton: Facility dog helps patients at Marshfield Children's Hospital Police impounded the car and found a handgun in the trunk. The keys for the vehicle were in the passenger compartment, according to the complaint. At 4:23 p.m. Dec. 30, a 911 caller reported finding bodies in a bed at Thew's home on West Bridge Street, according to the complaint. Two people reported they were looking for the children and went to the home. They broke into Thew's locked bedroom and found three dead people laying in a bed. When police arrived, Thew's mother and the two people who had been looking for the children were walking out of the home. Police confirmed the three victims were Kolba and the two girls, according to the complaint. They saw that the bedroom had multiple locks on the door, which were damaged. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thew's mother said she had been in the home the days following Christmas. She said Thew, the two girls, Kolba and Thew's sister had been the only ones there. The sister told police she had left work when she heard police were at Thew's apartment looking for missing children. She had gone to the apartment to look after Thew's mother, because he wasn't there. She said she didn't go into his bedroom because it was locked. She said Thew would get "extremely upset" if anyone entered his room. An autopsy confirmed Kolba and the two girls died of gunshot wounds, according to the complaint. The New Lisbon Police Department said in a Monday morning news release they are continuing to look for Thew and the last confirmed sighting of him was on Jan. 1 near Orange Road and McEwen Road in the town of Lisbon. They are asking the public to contact law enforcement with any information regarding possible sightings or the whereabouts of Thew. Thew is 5 feet and 11 inches tall, weighs about 160 pounds and has a 1-inch scar on his forehead, according to the police department. Thew is wanted through Wisconsin Probation and Parole. People should consider him armed and dangerous, according to the news release. If seen, do not approach Thew and contact 911. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Contact Karen Madden at kmadden@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter @KMadden715, Instagram @kmadden715 or Facebook at www.facebook.com/karen.madden.33. This article originally appeared on Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune: Court records provide details about Juneau County triple homicide Four years ago, then-outgoing President Donald Trump stood on the Ellipse on the National Mall and proclaimed to his supporters that they were not going to take back your government with weakness and that they should fight like hell or else they were not going to have a country anymore. Soon after, as the mob descended on lawmakers certifying the results of the 2020 election, won by Joe Biden, Michael Fanone, then a District of Columbia Metropolitan Police officer, would be viciously assaulted as he defended the U.S. Capitol. He was electroshocked on his neck with a Taser; he was kicked and beaten. His radio was ripped off his body; his badge stripped away from him. The group of men who assaulted him came at him five at a time. Fanone had a heart attack and lost consciousness. At one point during the assault, he pleaded with the Trump supporters clawing at him to consider his children. Shortly after the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection, Fanone left the police force. He has spent much of the last four years warning the public that indifference to the insurrection would spell the death of democracy as Americans know it. He poured himself into disseminating this warning while watching, like many others, as legal attempt after legal attempt to hold Trump to any account for his alleged role in the Jan. 6 events evaporated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The experience has left Fanone with no confidence in his fellow police officers, the justice system at large or the American public. Theres no doubt in my mind that he got away with inciting an insurrection as well as defrauding the American people and attempting to subvert democracy, Fanone told HuffPost during a phone interview just ahead of the fourth anniversary of the Capitol riot. I dont believe we live in a democracy anymore, Fanone said. I believe democracy in this country is dead, and it died when the Supreme Court granted the president of the United States immunity for official acts and then failed to define what the fuck official acts are. The Supreme Courts ruling in Trump v. United States in July found that as long as something could be shaded as an official act, prosecution was off the table. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ruling obliterated key parts of the criminal indictment brought against Trump in the Jan. 6 case by then-special counsel Jack Smith. And Trumps victory in November means hell likely never face federal charges. Shortly after the presidential election, Smith dismissed the case without prejudice meaning it could theoretically come back to life one day but Fanones faith in the justice system is already shattered. He called Attorney General Merrick Garland an absolute coward. Listen, people say Im naive or I dont know how these things work, but I was a cop for 20 years. Not only was I a cop, I was a cop in Washington, D.C. Our prosecutors were federal prosecutors. I worked with the [Department of Justice] every single day for 20 years. I know exactly how that institution and organization works. The decision not to pursue an investigation into Trump was all political, Fanone said. The investigation should have been launched on Jan. 7, 2021. The Justice Department declined to comment, but prosecutors were working on investigating Trump allies almost immediately following the insurrection and spent months and years in fights over executive privilege with Trump insiders and in trying to crack the encrypted phones of key players. Even after Smiths appointment in November 2022 and his indictment of Trump in August 2023, the presidents legal team worked relentlessly and successfully to delay the proceedings. The decision not to pursue an investigation into Trump was all political. The investigation should have been launched on Jan. 7, 2021, Michael Fanone says. Courage for America Fanone views all of this as irrelevant, arguing even Smiths appointment was unnecessary other than for optics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You want to maintain the credibility or restore the credibility of the Department of Justice, you do it by doing your job and not playing politics. Garland played politics and he lost, and hell go down in history as being the man that couldnt prosecute a president who incited an insurrection that we all watched unfold on television, he said. Trumps victory in November, he said, felt like a referendum on Jan. 6, and on him. This election, at least in part in my mind, was a referendum on Jan. 6, and it was a referendum on me and my outspokenness and the things that Ive said. And the American people said We dont care, and I mean, they dont care, he said. The American people dont care, and therefore the media doesnt care because the media these days is mostly Im not going to paint everyone with a broad stroke but is mostly only interested in stories people are going to read. Nobody cares about Jan. 6. They just dont care. Fanone said that it seems as if the only people left who are focused on Jan. 6 today are those who are part of the tinfoil hat brigade who argue the insurrection was some vast government conspiracy. I dont think thats a lot of Americans, but there are nut jobs out there, he said. But the vast majority of Americans are in the vein of: If it didnt affect me, I dont care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fanone has traveled the entire country in the last four years. That was my experience in every single city, he said. People were uneducated about what happened on Jan. 6, which was baffling to me. Listen, I didnt watch cable news before Jan. 6, but I assumed that a massive attack on the Capitol would at least register with every American. But it didnt. Trump has vowed that, once he returns to the Oval Office, hell pardon the Jan. 6 rioters, but he has been unclear on whether he will issue blanket pardons or if he will grant pardons on a case-by-case basis, potentially pardoning only those who were nonviolent or committed misdemeanor offenses. The idea of Jan. 6 rioters now receiving pardons gives an already exasperated Fanone pause. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes already paid a personal cost for his outspokenness and fears pardoned insurrectionists could threaten his family. Fanones mother was swatted at her home in May just hours after he made critical remarks about Trump. Hes received so much harassment that hes stopped reporting it to the authorities. Hes lost faith. Ill be honest with you, I spent 20 years and the last four years the last four years especially intensely giving a fuck, and now I just dont care. But I have concerns given the fact that many of those incarcerated, specifically those for committing acts of violence, have threatened me directly, and I know from past experience that the Department of Justice, the FBI, local law enforcement, do not monitor those threats and dont give a fuck about them. My experience with law enforcement over the past year has been atrocious. The threats against my family and I have mostly gone uninvestigated to the point where I dont even report them. I dont want anything to do with the police, and nor do my family members. Someone threw a brick at his mothers home a little over a month ago, he said. Fanone said there was another incident where his mother was raking leaves in her front yard and a man pulled up and threw a bag of shit on her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the end of the day, Fanone said his experience as a police officer has taught him that accountability is what actually keeps people in line. The threat of going to jail, he said, or the threat of monetary fines can be meaningful deterrents. But now, he said, we have a situation where, openly, a political party says, If youre with us, theres no accountability. Thats proven with those promises for pardons. Just be a Trump supporter, and we got your back, Fanone said. Well, thats not fucking law and order. The nations justice system was troubled long before Trump and long before Jan. 6, he said. I always felt that it was classist. Youve got a better chance of walking away from an incident if you have the resources to defend yourself. Shit, look at Donald Trump: He can litigate things for eternity. But this is the first time Ive seen somebody so openly thumb their nose at this system, so for people that oppose Trump and what he stands for, as an individual, that threat of accountability is still there. But for those that do not oppose him, who knows? he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, Fanone said hes looking for work and often is told that hes a hero and that hes loved. But, he said, hes also told by prospective employers that they dont want potential workplace distraction or fallout and are worried that they too will be targeted simply because they employ him. Turning to the future, Fanone said he doesnt think so highly of myself to impart some life lesson on the American people, but he could share, unfiltered, what hes learned in the last four years. I no longer believe in American exceptionalism. I certainly did before Jan. 6. I dont any longer. I think theres a lot of decent Americans Ive served with them in the police department, known them in the military and in other areas, that are deeply devoted to this country and the Constitution and to just being decent humans. But I dont think those are the prevailing characteristics of the average American. I think the average American is cowardly and selfish. Related... Jan. 6Thirty years ago, if someone said, "I'm going out to grab a craft beer," the person they were talking to might not have known what that meant, let alone where they would go to get it. Today, in Greensburg alone, it could mean eight different taprooms, and that's not counting if the corner bar carries a few craft taps in addition to Iron City, Budweiser and Yuengling. But, according to the Brewers Association, a national trade group, 2024 was the first year in nearly two decades when the U.S. saw more craft breweries close than open. The group's 2024 Year in Beer shows 335 new breweries opening and 399 closing. In Western Pennsylvania, Necromancer Brewing closed its Ross location in February after a three-year run; Cellar Works Brewing closed its doors in October after seven years in Buffalo Township; and Aurochs Brewing in Emsworth closed in December. According to industry blog Breweries in PA, about 20 craft breweries in Pennsylvania closed their doors in 2024. David Sobel, who owns Sobel's Obscure Brewery in Jeannette with his daughter Jackie, said the craft beer market was getting saturated. The Brewers Association report counted more than 9,700 craft breweries operating in the U.S. in 2024, and VisitPA counts more than 500 in Pennsylvania. "There are just so many opening up," Sobel said. "There's not a big enough market share to support it all. You have home brewers who, in some cases, give up their job to go into brewing. And in the beginning it goes well, and everyone comes out to support it. But after a while, things slow down, and I think that's where a lot of people run into problems." In Sobel's case, the former department store where his brewery is located can seat more than 175 people, which has allowed him to branch out into event hosting. "We have one of the largest seating capacities of local breweries," he said. "So we can do a lot of larger events that other breweries aren't big enough to host." Operating costs rise In announcing Necromancer Brewing's closure, owners cited rising operating costs, a concern echoed by Sobel and others. "What's really kicking our butt is the energy bills," said Jeff Guidos, owner at All Saints Brewing in Hempfield. Before starting All Saints, Guidos was head brewer at Red Star Brewing, which opened in Greensburg in 1998 and was part of the first wave of regional craft brewers. "My energy usage is down, but my bills are still up about 30%. That's what I've noticed more than anything," he said. Crews with the Charlotte Fire Department battled a massive fire Monday afternoon at Public Storage in southwest Charlotte. A third alarm was struck shortly before 4:30 p.m. at the self-storage business on South Tryon Street near Westinghouse Boulevard. 1 seriously injured in southwest Charlotte crash, MEDIC says It took 90 firefighters about 50 minutes to control the fire. Ali Pioli was at the facility on Monday to move stuff into a unit. She was surprised to find dozens of firefighters there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We were pulling up to come back to our unit and werent allowed to get in, she said. We talked to one of the firemen that was out there and he said, yeah, theres a fire, a very bad fire. Battalion Chief John Lipcsak says an overabundance of items inside the units led to the third alarm. A lot of people keep a lot of material inside these units, and theyre packed to the top, he said. So, just with the manpower-intensive operation that was taking place caused us to call a third alarm. Eight to 10 units were impacted, the fire chief said. Piolis unit wasnt impacted by the fire, but she says shes thinking about those that were. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That can be heartbreaking, because somebody may have lost all of her stuff, she said. There were no injuries and the cause of the fire is under investigation. This is a developing story. Check wsoctv.com for updates. ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) Two city councilors are looking to address Albuquerques housing crisis by easing restrictions on housing developments. But their proposed bill is receiving mixed emotions ahead of a Monday night vote. This past month, city councilors Joaquin Baca and Dan Lewis teamed up to sponsor a bill they say would lessen the red tape to fast-track new developments like housing along busy main corridors. Primarily, though, for me its about housing. Thats one of the biggest issues we have here in the city; lack of housing for our families, whether its rental or purchase. And then also for our unhoused population, said Councilor Baca. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bill was announced on December 16 and the city council is set to vote on it Monday night. District 7s neighborhood association president Janice Arnold-Jones expressed her frustration, telling News 13 that this bill was rushed. Weve not had absolutely no chance to weigh in if this bill goes to vote tomorrow night, and that is wrong. It is not public, it is not transparent, and it does not follow due process, says Arnold-Jones. The neighborhood association last met on December 4 and the bill was announced over a week later. Albuquerque city councilor works to revamp housing voucher program As a former city councilor, Arnold-Jones believes that this bill lacks transparency. I learned that you have to take the time to hear the citizens, because my perspective of what is happening may differ greatly from yours. And we need to figure out wheres the common ground, and when we do that, the citizens of Albuquerque win, she says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bill aims to increase housing along the ART route as well as main street corridors like 4th Street and Broadway through zoning changes to allow more multi-family developments and new restrictions on how those projects can be appealed. So, by gently increasing, by allowing a gentle increase in density in those areas, we can try and help start to address the housing crisis that were facing, said Brandi Thompson, Operations Chair of Strong Towns Albuquerque. The Inter-Coalition Council has also thrown its hat in the ring saying that this bill is not about affordable housing or homelessness; its intent is to disenfranchise members of the public, enrich the development community, and concentrate power amongst fewer elected officials. They add that this ordinance violates the New Mexico Civil Rights Act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the bill is passed, it can still be vetoed by the mayor. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. The CTA is set to formally lock in needed federal money for the extension of the Red Line before President-elect Donald Trump takes office, paving the way for the long-planned addition through Chicagos Far South Side to move forward. A large, nearly $2 billion federal grant, key to moving the $5.3 billion project forward, had been promised to the CTA but the formal agreement not yet signed. That put the transit agency under pressure to finalize the agreement before the change in administration and a Republican-controlled Congress could potentially throw the commitment into jeopardy. But the CTA and the Federal Transit Administration plan to sign the agreement Friday, a little more than a week before Trump is inaugurated, the Chicago transit agency confirmed. Once the agreement is signed, Congress must still regularly approve the money, but CTA spokeswoman Tammy Chase said she considers the agreement final at that point. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agreement is a pledge by the federal government to appropriate funding for the Red Line Extension Project and we are confident about the federal government fulfilling its commitment, she said in an email. The CTA was in a similar situation when it sought funding for a massive overhaul of the Red Lines north end. In that case, the agency formalized the agreement in early January 2017, shortly before Trump took office the first time, and subsequently received all of the expected money on time, Chase has said. This time around, the federal funding will go toward extending the Red Line south by 5.6 miles to 130th Street and adding four stations. The project, discussed for more than 50 years, has the potential to be a major investment in the citys Far South Side, even as it has meant acquiring dozens of residents homes. The CTA has touted the projects ability to boost equity, save commuting time between the Far South Side and the Loop, improve connections to the neighborhoods and promote economic opportunity and sustainability. But the costs of the project have ballooned by more than $1 billion in recent years as expenses for materials, labor and financing rose. The grant agreement the CTA expects to sign Friday also came in lower than the agency initially sought. And the agency was required by the federal government to add $400 million to the amount set aside for unexpected costs, bringing the total cost including this contingency to more than $5.7 billion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CTA now expects to issue $2.25 billion in bonds to help finance the project. Other funding will come from a special transit tax district approved by Chicago aldermen in 2022 that is expected to raise $950 million and help the CTA meet the required local match for the federal money. The project will also get funding from other state and federal sources. Members of Illinois congressional delegation announced in mid-December the FTA planned to sign the funding agreement with the CTA, but the move Friday marks the formal agreement. With the federal funding secured, construction on the extension could start in late 2025, and preliminary work has begun. If all goes according to plan, service on the new tracks could begin in 2030, the CTA said. A winter storm that has covered Greater Cincinnati in snow and ice is affecting more than just people's daily commutes, as the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport experiences dozens of flight cancellations. As of 6:13 a.m., 65 flights scheduled to arrive or depart CVG on Monday have been canceled, according to FlightAware, a real-time online flight tracker. CVG spokesperson Mindy Kershner said in an email that the airport had 77 completed flights with another 41 canceled on Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many Greater Cincinnati communities have experienced snow accumulations of more than 5 inches, with higher snowfall amounts recorded in Northern Kentucky, making travel hazardous. What's next Daily snowfall record set in Cincinnati and it's not over yet Kershner said CVG's winter operations team has been working 13-hour shifts since Sunday morning to clear snow and ice from roadways and runways. How much snow has hit Ohio, Kentucky? See snowfall totals around the region "The best thing for travelers to do is to keep an eye on the weather and road conditions and to download their airline app to get real-time notifications on flight status sent directly to their phone. Travelers can also go to the airline website to check flight status," Kershner said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For canceled flights, passengers should rebook according to their airline's policy. For those with active flights, Kershner said to check road conditions before leaving home and plan to arrive early at the airport. Travelers can also visit CVG's website to check on delays and cancellations. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Winter storm leads to flight cancellations at CVG. Here's what to know Last week, an active-duty US Army soldier died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound right before blowing up the Tesla Cybertruck he had rented in front of the Trump Towers hotel in Las Vegas using a crudely-built explosive and fireworks. The 37-year-old Green Beret soldier named Matthew Livelsberger left behind a deranged manifesto, calling the incident a "wake-up call" for the country. The contents of the note suggest that Livelsberger was "struggling with PTSD and other issues," FBI special agent Spencer Evans told reporters, as quoted by the Associated Press, with the soldier saying he needed to "cleanse my mind" of his fallen comrades and the "burden of the lives I took." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most salaciously, according to Military.com, Livelsberger appears to have also authored a December 31 email, widely shared in the military community, that made unsubstantiated claims about the claims of mysterious drone sightings that made headlines for weeks at the end of the year. Livelsberger alleged they were of Chinese origin and technologically highly advanced. (In reality, experts have since argued that there was no evidence of any nefarious activity and that many of the sightings could have far more mundane explanations.) "What we have been seeing with 'drones' is the operational use of gravitic propulsion systems powered aircraft by most recently China in the east coast, but throughout history, the US," reads the email, which Livelsberger allegedly sent to a podcast called "The Shawn Ryan Show." "The so what is because of the speed and stealth of these unmanned AC, they are the most dangerous threat to national security that has ever existed," it continued. "They basically have an unlimited payload capacity and can park it over the [White House] if they wanted. It's checkmate." Las Vegas officials told Military.com that they had "strong evidence to suggest that it was the subject that wrote it, but we haven't conclusively proven that yet." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But as officials have pointed out, Livelsberger was clearly showing signs of emotional distress, meaning the tragic blast was almost certainly neither a political stunt aimed at Trump and Musk, nor an insider with explosive information about unidentified flying objects. In actuality, his death was almost certainly the result of some combination of misinformation, violent rhetoric, and a mental health crisis. Following the incident last week, Livelsberger's motive became a major point of contention, especially considering the optics of the situation: Tesla's Cybertruck has become a political lightning rod, synonymous with the EV maker's CEO Elon Musk's increasingly extremist views. The choice of target, a hotel part-owned by his number one ally, president-elect Donald Trump, also suggested that Livelsberger may have wanted to send an explicitly political message. The explosion didn't damage the hotel, but injured seven nearby bystanders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's not lost on us that it's in front of the Trump building, that it's a Tesla vehicle, but we don't have information at this point that definitively tells us or suggests it was because of this particular ideology," Evans told reporters last week. Investigators are now poring over Livelsberger's medical records to see whether he was suffering from mental health issues or received treatment. But considering his actions, there's a very good chance that such issues may have played a role, highlighting a pervasive issue among the military's ranks. According to the US Department of Veterans Affairs, seven percent of US veterans will have PTSD at some point in their lives. More on the incident: Dunce-Like Senator Posts Photo of "Drone" That's Actually a TIE Fighter From "Star Wars" WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) In todays economy, having a dream is not enough for a successful business. Entrepreneurs must have an understanding of how to develop, build, and grow sustainable businesses that will strengthen the local economy. One local competition aims to give them just that. i.d.e.a.WF is a partnership between the Wichita Falls Economic Development Corporation, the Lalani Center for Entrepreneurship & Free Enterprise, and the Dillard College of Business Administration at MSU Texas. They aim to help local entrepreneurs open or expand their businesses and compete for prize money. RELATED STORY: 2024 i.d.e.a. WF winners announced at luncheon Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The businesses must be located in the Wichita Falls MSA, which includes Archer, Clay and Wichita Counties. There is no specific business type required; all will be considered, including retail and service. Funds are raised through the business community and passed directly to the winners. Since its inception, almost $800,000 has been awarded to local entrepreneurs. Along with helping build a business plan, entrepreneurs can take courses on financial statements, market research, sales forecasting, pro forma statements, and guerrilla marketing. Other benefits include being able to spend time working on your business rather than simply in your business and the possibility of a cash prize. Six free orientations for the program run from February 4 through February 20. The deadline to enter i.d.e.a.WF is Tuesday, March 4. For more information, visit their website at ideawf.com, follow them on Facebook or Instagram, or call Jeannie Hilbers at 940-397-4866. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Texomashomepage.com. It feels like just yesterday the X owner and the Reform leader were pictured together at Mar-a-Lago. Now Elon Musk has publicly attacked Nigel Farage, saying he doesnt have what it takes to lead the party and should be replaced. The men are split over Tommy Robinson, real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. Currently in prison for contempt of court, the far-Right activist has received Musks backing, while Farage has distanced himself from the EDL founder. Their public spat began after the resurfacing of the child grooming gangs scandal, as it was revealed a Labour minister declined to lead an inquiry in Oldham. We also ask: would a new inquiry help the victims get justice? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch episodes of the Daily T here. You can also listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts, and subscribe to The Daily T newsletter for updates. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Danny Elfman has lost his bid to dismiss a defamation lawsuit brought on him last year for comments he made to Rolling Stone in 2023 regarding a quiet sexual harassment settlement. Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Gail Killefer ruled composer Nomi Abadis defamation suit could continue despite Elfmans attempts otherwise. The Simpsons and Batman composer tried to get the suit tossed by stating his 2023 comments to the publication had free speech and litigation privilege protections ahead of his plans to sue Rolling Stone himself for defamation. The March 2023 letter did not state it was a demand letter, nor does such an indication appear on the face of the letter, Killefer said. The substance of the letter appears to be Defendant Elfmans response to Rolling Stones request for comment regarding Plaintiffs breach of contract suit and prior lawsuit by Plaintiff regarding sexual misconduct allegations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Killefer continued, Elfmans March 2023 letter functions more as a press release rather than a demand letter. Abadis defamation suit came back in July 2024 and alleged Elfman peddled appalling lies for publication to Rolling Stone about Nomi, who had previously in an earlier lawsuit truthfully relayed facts corroborating his penchant to sexually abuse women. Elfmans 2023 comments to Rolling Stone came in response to an article about his secret settlement with Abadi to the tune of $830,000 and an NDA which Abadi also sued Elfman for failing to make a payment on. The alleged lies Elfman responded to included there being no sexual misconduct toward Abadi, that he never masturbated in front of her, that he never inappropriately touched her, and that he never placed his bodily fluids in a martini glass he presented to Nomi. Abadis initial suit against Elfman was filed in 2018 and accused him of more than one instance of sexual harassment in 2015 and 2016. Despite initially denying the accusations, the two quietly settled for the aforementioned $830,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elfmans most recent composing credit is 2024 sequel Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice. The post Danny Elfman Denied Dismissal of Defamation Lawsuit Over Sexual Harassment Statements appeared first on TheWrap. DANVILLE, Ill. (WCIA) A 28-year-old man from Danville has been arrested in connection to the death of a man from Champaign. On Dec. 21, 35-year-old Joseph Jones was found unresponsive at the intersection of Collett and Williams in Danville at 11 p.m. At the time, police said Jones had more than one gunshot wound and was pronounced dead at the scene. 35-year-old Champaign man killed in Danville shooting Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Danville Police Department investigated the shooting and gathered evidence suggesting that Derrell Boston, 28 of Danville, was a suspect in Jones death. The Vermilion County States Attorneys Office helped the Danville Police Department obtain an arrest warrant for Boston for a first-degree murder charge. On Jan. 4, 2025, Danville police officers spotted Boston sitting in a car in front of a business on North Bowman Avenue around 1 a.m. Boston was arrested and brought to the Public Safety Building. He was charged with a warrant arrest of first-degree murder and is still being investigated as a suspect in the shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Danville Police Department reminded that everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. They also ask that anyone with more information calls them at 217-431-2250. To make an anonymous tip, contact Vermilion County Crimestoppers on their website, use the P3 TIPS app, or call them at 217-446-TIPS. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. DANVILLE, Ill. (WCIA) A Danville teenager is under arrest after police said he was responsible for a shots-fired incident in their city Sunday afternoon. Police officials said the incident happened at 4:30 p.m. near Martin and Fairchild Streets. They added that after the last shot was heard, suspects were seen running from the area. Both witnesses and the weather helped officers track a suspect to a home two blocks away from the scene of the shooting. 1 juvenile dead, 1 with life threatening injuries after ATV accident in Macon Co. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With assistance from the Vermilion County States Attorneys Office, the Danville Police Department was able to obtain a search warrant for the home. As a result, officers arrested 19-year-old Alvin Daniels and recovered a gun. Daniels was booked into the Vermilion County Public Safety Building on preliminary charges of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, aggravated discharge of a firearm and obstructing/resisting a peace officer. Vermilion County court records have not reflected Daniels arrest as of Monday morning. Anyone with further information about the incident at Martin and Fairchild is asked to contact either the Danville Police Department or Vermilion County Crime Stoppers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A new study puts more scientific teeth behind everything from having white Christmases to how long ski hills stay open: Winters on the Great Lakes are shrinking. Since 1995, winter has shortened by about 14 days and in some spots close to three weeks, according to the recent study published in Environmental Research Letters. The study adds to mounting evidence that winter is the most rapidly changing season in the Great Lakes region, growing warmer and wetter with less snow. Most prior research has been done on land. When it comes to what is going on in the lakes themselves, winter is quite the blind spot for scientists, said Craig Stow, researcher at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrations Great Lakes Environmental Research Lab and co-author on the study. That's because so far, most scientific research has occurred after ice off, when the last bit of ice melts and research vessels can get out on the water, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The study adds another piece to the puzzle, contributing to the ever-evolving understanding of what occurs in lakes during the winter months, Stow said. Here are four takeaways about the importance of this new study, and how winter out on the lakes doesn't look the same as it used to. More: Cold, snowy winters are part of Wisconsin's identity. But are they a thing of the past? When lake water 'mixes' is key to understanding seasons Most of the information scientists have gathered during the winter has been on changes in ice cover, showing a steady overall decline over the past half century, accompanied by extreme swings between years with extensive and minimal ice cover. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But ice cover is just one aspect of measuring winter changes on the world's largest surface freshwater system. Scientists also needed to look at when the water in the lakes "mixes." In general, water in the lakes mixes during the spring and fall. That's the point at which the water temperature is about the same from top to bottom. In the summer and winter the lakes are stratified, forming distinct layers based on temperature. In the summer, the surface is warmer than the bottom. In the winter it's the opposite: the surface is colder than the bottom. The lakes mix when the surface temperature hits a magic number: 4 degrees Celsius or roughly 39 degrees Fahrenheit. That's when water is at its most dense so dense that it will sink to the bottom, allowing the water column to turnover, or mix. To measure this, the scientists looked at surface water temperatures from satellite data. Understanding how climate change is impacting winter conditions across the entire region has remained elusive because just one lake consistently freezes over Lake Erie while the four others regularly see ice cover only on their nearshore areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In other words, winter looks a lot different in Lake Erie than in Lake Superior. Nevertheless, the scientists found that winter is shrinking by about two weeks per decade on average across all five lakes. More: The 2024-'25 Great Lakes ice forecast is far different from last year. Is that good? A steeper decline is seen in some locations, like the bay of Green Bay The biggest drop in winter days occurred in Lakes Superior and Erie, which has lost close to three weeks of winter, according to co-author on the study Eric Anderson, a researcher at the Colorado School of Mines, in Golden, Colorado. The scientists also saw trends in different spots within each of the lakes. For instance, in Lakes Michigan and Ontario, the loss of winter days was mostly within shallow areas, like the shoreline and bays. Anderson also noted a steep decline in ice cover days within Lake Michigans bay of Green Bay. Sheets of ice float on Lake Michigan just inside the breakwater near the Milwaukee Community Sailing Center in Veterans Park Feb. 14, 2018. However, in Lakes Superior, Huron and Erie, winter days were lost across the entire area of each lake, including both shallow and offshore areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the study, the Great Lakes also have lost an average of about 1.5 days of ice cover per year since 1995. Lake Superior gains fall days, Lake Michigan gains spring days There was a split between losing winter days to fall or spring, Anderson said. For instance, Lake Superior is losing its winter days to fall, while Lakes Michigan and Huron are losing winter days to spring. Water surrounds boat piers in McKinley Marina near Veterans Park off the shores of Lake Michigan in Milwaukee January 3, 2024. Great Lakes ice cover was at record low on January 1. However, it's not yet clear why this split is occurring. Much more research will be needed to uncover the underlying reasons, Anderson said. Projections are hard because so much is going on simultaneously While its clear that winter isn't the same in the Great Lakes as it once was, Stow said its hard to make projections about what the impacts will be because everything is changing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With climate change there is too much going on at once, Stow said, but a shrinking winter will likely have cascading effects throughout the rest of the year. A lack of ice and change in the timing of lake mixing can impact the food web, which in turn can affect fisheries, a $7 billion dollar industry in the region. For example, a change in timing and warmer waters can cause phytoplankton to bloom before zooplankton, which feed on them. Without zooplankton, the entire food chain, especially fish that rely on them, can be disrupted. Ice helps protect fish populations that spawn in the fall in nearshore areas by calming winds and waves. This prevents sediment from being stirred up, ensuring higher hatchling survival in the spring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shrinking season may also spell radical changes for recreation and business. It could take years, even decades, for that to fully shake out. More: In the Boundary Waters, winters are now 'nail-biters' for one dogsledding company More: If winter wonderland turns to slush, small business would get relief under Baldwin bill Caitlin Looby is a Report for America corps member who writes about the environment and the Great Lakes. Reach her at clooby@gannett.com, follow her on X @caitlooby and learn more about her reporting. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Great Lakes winters have shrunk by two weeks since '95, study finds DAUPHIN COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) A man was killed in a box truck fire Monday morning in Dauphin County, State Police say. According to Troopers, the fire broke out in an old box truck that the man was sleeping in, just after 4 a.m. along Manada Bottom Road in East Hanover Township. The man did die in the fire, State Police confirmed. Further details about the fire remain unknown. The identity of the victim was not released yet either. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Stay with abc27 News as more information becomes available Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Colorado ranchers and producers are looking to recover losses they say have been caused by the wolf reintroduction program, submitting nearly $600,000 in claims. The coldest streak of weather Tampa Bay has experienced since 2022 is expected this week as forecasters anticipate overnight temperatures will plunge into the low 40s and afternoon highs will struggle to reach the 60s for much of the area. A line of showers and thunderstorms late Monday afternoon cleared the path for the chilly work week in Tampa Bay. On Monday night, temperatures were expected to plummet, and by Tuesday morning inland portions of the region were likely to be in the 30s. On Monday, The National Weather Service placed much of central and north Florida, including inland areas of Pasco and Hillsborough, under a Cold Weather Advisory that expires at 8 a.m. Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The weather service expected wind chills would drop into the upper 30s in inland portions of Tampa Bay and that they could bottom out in the upper 20s in areas along the Nature Coast. The cold weather was predicted to follow the showers and thunderstorms that dropped from central Georgia late Monday afternoon. The blast of frigid air this week is from a major winter storm that has blanketed much of the United States, causing power outages, school closures and flight delays. As of Monday afternoon, more than a quarter of flights scheduled to leave Tampa International Airport were delayed or canceled due to heavy snow across the Northeast and Midwest. There was a marginal risk of severe weather Monday, according to the weather service. The warning is the lowest among severe thunderstorm risk categories. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Paul Close, a meteorologist for the weather services Tampa Bay office, said the greatest threats from the storms in the Tampa Bay were likely to be gusty winds of up to 25 mph. By 5 p.m. Monday, the heaviest rains were reported at St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport. The highest wind gust was at the Tampa Executive Airport and topped out at 26 mph. The storms were expected to weaken as they moved south, and to last about an hour. Forecasters expected conditions would remain breezy and that temperatures would fall after the storms moved out of the area. The coldest daytime temperatures of the week are expected Tuesday when highs will hover in the mid-50s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Overnight temperatures on Tuesday into Wednesday will dip into the 30s and 40s. Hillsborough County activated cold weather shelters Monday through Thursday for those seeking shelter from the frigid temperatures. In Pinellas County, shelters will open at 6 p.m. on Tuesday and will remain open until 6 a.m. Wednesday. Pasco County said it will open a cold weather shelter Tuesday, beginning at 6 p.m., at the Shady Hills Mission Chapel, 15925 Greenglen Lane in Spring Hill. The cold weather will be over by Friday, when temperatures will warm to nearly 70 degrees in Tampa. Forecasters are not expecting freezing temperatures in Tampa this week, though a freeze warning is in effect for north-central portions of Florida. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cold snap could be the longest stretch of temperatures at or below 40 degrees in Tampa since 2022, when a blast of cold weather chilled the area over Christmas. Last year, just one day dipped below 40 degrees in the city. In 2023, it was just two days. Inland and northern portions of Tampa Bay generally freeze once or twice a year, Close said, though its rarer for the city of Tampa to see freezing temperatures. Along with cold weather warnings, the weather service is warning of a high risk of rip currents. Waters in and around Tampa Bay are running in the mid 60s, Close said, slightly above normal for this time of year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, water temperatures that cold mean Floridas endangered manatees will be searching for warmer areas. Water temperatures below 68 degrees put the mammals in danger. Molly Lippincott, senior curator of Florida & Marine Life at Zoo Tampa, said manatees typically experience cold stress during prolonged days of exposure. Manatees know to begin making their way to warmer waters in the winter, though they can get stuck in canals or have other issues escaping cold waters. The zoo was at capacity with 26 manatees Monday. Lippincott said the manatees there are receiving treatment for a myriad of issues, like cold stress, boat strikes and the effects of hurricanes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the zoo will struggle to take more injured manatees, other critical care facilities could have openings, she said. Lippincott encouraged anyone who sees a manatee in distress to report the animal to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commissions hot line: 1-888-404-3922 and press 7. ROGER MILLS COUNTY, Okla. (KFOR) Two people were killed after an early Sunday morning collision in Roger Mills County during slick and windy conditions. According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol just after 5 a.m., a vehicle driven by Rene G. De La Cruz of Elk City started to fishtail while going north on US-283. | BE READY > Arctic Blast moving southeast across Oklahoma this morning with bitter cold temps, very strong winds and dangerously low wind chills. Also, snow to the north! > Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The vehicle entered the southbound lanes and struck a vehicle driven by Misti Morris of Cheyenne, according to OHP. The collision happened on US-283 north of E. 1040 Road, seven miles south of Cheyenne. Officials said Morris was pinned for 5 hours and 15 minutes until she was freed by the Berlin Fire Department but she died at the scene. Cruz was sent to OU Medical in Oklahoma City with head, trunk internal, trunk external, arm, and leg injuries. Cruzs passenger Thomas Stampul of Sayre was pronounced dead at the scene by Berlin Fire officials. The cause is still unknown but officials say the weather was windy and the road had slick spots on it at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cruz and her passenger were wearing their seatbelts but officials said Morris was not. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Despite an annual warning from authorities, a deadly New Year's trend continued in Japan this week as two people died after choking on mochi a doughy cake made from steamed sweet rice that is traditionally served to celebrate the new year. Nine people were taken to hospitals in Tokyo after choking on mochi during the first three days of January, Japan Today reported, citing the Tokyo Fire Department. Two of those people, both elderly men, later died. A man in his 70s choked on mochi at his home in Itabashi, just outside Tokyo, on New Year's Day, and was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead, local TV reported. Another man in his 80s who lived in the Tokyo suburb of Nerima also died after choking on the delicacy, according to Japan Today. Mochi is a staple of the Japanese New Year's holiday menu and is often eaten in a savory soup called ozoni. Emily Anderson, a curator at the Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles, told "CBS Sunday Morning" last month that New Year's Day is the most important holiday in Japan, and the rice cake delicacy is an integral part of celebrating. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Eating mochi is a really important part of the most important family-oriented day," she said. But the glutinous cakes can easily get stuck in people's throats, restricting breathing. Choking on mochi is so common that authorities offer tips every year on how to help someone who has the food lodged in their throat. The National Police Agency and the Fire and Disaster Management Agency annually advise people to cut up the rice cakes into small chunks, and to eat them in the presence of someone else, Japan Today reported. Mochi on a plate in Japan on December 29, 2021. / Credit: Lars Nicolaysen/picture alliance via Getty Images Despite the public warnings, the treats made of pounded, steamed rice have caused suffocation deaths nearly every year, often among elderly people. According to a survey by the Tokyo Fire Department cited by local media, from 2019 to 2023, 368 people were hospitalized with mochi or other items stuck in their throats, and more than 90% of them were people over the age of 65. In 2022, four elderly women choked to death on the rice cakes and 12 other people were hospitalized. In 2015, nine people were believed to have died taking part in the annual culinary tradition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2001, a woman famously saved her father's life when she used a vacuum cleaner to dislodge mochi from the 70-year-old man's throat. Massive winter storm expected to bring heavy snow, ice, cold to 25 states How Oakland's Creative Growth enabled generations of artists Rise and shine with sunrise photographer Bugsy Sailor A rising metal drummer is among four people killed in a horrific drunk-driving incident in Greenville, South Carolina on New Years Eve. 37-year-old Joshua Nassaru Ward, who drummed for North Carolina death metal band Voraath, died after his car was struck in the process of backing out of a driveway around 9pm. Joshua Ward Voraath Judas, Blood and Vultures Drum Playthrough According to local paper Greenville News, four people including Ward, his fiancee Zelena, and two others were all pronounced dead at the scene, after a drunk driver with a suspended license allegedly ploughed into the Subaru SUV they were travelling in and sent it careening into a tree. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The driver, 31-year-old Nicholas Shane Meeks, has been charged with four counts of felony DUI involving death and denied bail after a deadly crash. Ward, who was also a beloved member of the North Carolina martial arts community, leaves behind a son named Kai. A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to raise money for Wards funeral costs, with any remaining money to be donated to Kai, with more than USD $23K raised so far. Meanwhile, Wards Voraath released their debut full-length album, Vol 1: The Hymn of the Hunters, in June of 2024. The band posted on Facebook just hours before the fatal crash to reflect on the success of the release, writing Weve placed in the top 40 on multiple platforms. A few top tens and even a top one. Were really excited to bring our next album to life! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can watch a drum playthrough from Ward up above, and a news report on the fatal crash down below. Further Reading Amen Singer Casey Chaos Has Passed Away, Age 59 Dethklok Are Coming To Australia In 2025 AC/DC Are Apparently Plotting An Australian Tour For 2025 The post Death Metal Drummer Killed By Drunk Driver In Horror NYE Crash appeared first on Music Feeds. Jaguar has rejected a coroners request to reconsider the design of its electric car after the death of a seven-year-old boy. In February 2023, Alfie Tollett was crushed between two parked vehicles as he changed his rugby boots after the driver of the 70,000 I-PACE vehicle wrongly put the car into drive instead of reverse. Having mistakenly thought he had it in reverse while attempting to park, the unnamed driver relied on feel to select the reverse button as he drove forward for up to 10 seconds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deborah Archer, assistant coroner for Devon, Plymouth and Torbay, said there were a number of errors that were made by the driver which caused or contributed to the death. She also suggested that if the design of the car had been different, the tragedy could have been prevented. Writing to the CEO of Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), she said there was a risk more deaths could occur unless action is taken. But in response, the car manufacturer rejected her assertions and insisted no changes are required because the model meets all legal requirements for vehicle safety. The company said: The Jaguar I-PACE has achieved the highest safety rating of five stars from the European New Car Assessment Programme. Death categorised as accidental An inquest last year heard Alfie and his family had been at Plymstock Albion Oaks rugby club to watch his older brother play in a training match. While changing his boots behind the family car, he became trapped between it and another parked van, after an electric car hit into it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The driver used his left hand to select the reverse button to straighten the vehicle up, but did not check the button to see if he had correctly selected it where he instead relied on feel. As a result, the Jaguar moved forwards instead of backwards, as reverse had not been selected. The driver failed to notice that the reversing warning alarm had not engaged and collided with van and continued to accelerate pushing the white VW van forwards, trapping Alfie between the van and his fathers car. His father got into his car and moved it forward to release Alfie, who fell to the ground. Alfie was taken to hospital where he died in what was categorised as an accidental death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time, a 55-year-old man was arrested by police on suspicion of causing death by careless driving. However, there has since been no prosecution of the driver because he died shortly after the incident, it was heard. In a Prevention of Future Death report, Ms Archer revealed matters giving rise to concern heard at the inquest that means there is a risk that future deaths could occur. Although it is accepted that this death was accidental, during the inquest the following information came to light as a result of the investigating police officer giving evidence, she wrote. She said there were a a number of errors made by the driver which caused or contributed to the death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Archer said these included wrongly placing the car in drive instead of reverse, pressing the button by touch alone, and driving forward for eight to 10 seconds after the accelerator was pressed, and failing to press the brake at any time, among others. However, these errors occurred as a result of there being no intermediary step within the Jaguar I-PACE being necessary to put the car into drive/reverse other than pressing a button, she said. In the police officers opinion if there had also been a lever or something similar present in the vehicle that needed to be engaged before a button was pressed this may have alerted [the driver] to the fact that he had pushed the incorrect button on the three-button console. The current design meets all legal requirements Responding to the coroner, Jaguar said: JLR confirms that the Vehicle Certification Agency are an Executive Agency of the Department for Transport and exist to improve vehicle safety and environmental protection by providing robust testing and certification to internationally recognised standards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The gear transmission control unit is assessed for location and use as part of the vehicle certification process. The Jaguar I-PACE is fully certified and meets all applicable United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UN-ECE) regulated requirements. In addition, the Jaguar I-PACE has achieved the highest safety rating of 5 stars from the European New Car Assessment Programme [Euro NCAP]. Jaguar said the gear transmission unit is clearly labelled and other car manufacturers use a similar type of gear selector, including Ford, Tesla, Renault. They added: We thank the coroner for the time taken to prepare the notice and for permitting JLR to review the information provided. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Upon review of all information and evidence in the case, including the data extracted from the Vehicle and independent vehicle safety testing, it is clear that the current design of the Jaguar I-PACE gear transmission control unity and alert strategy meet all legal requirements for vehicle safety and that no charges are required. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Ukraine's Defence Intelligence (DIU) has revealed details of a historic air and sea battle in the Black Sea on the last day of 2024, when missile strikes from Magura V5 uncrewed surface vessels destroyed two Russian helicopters and damaged another one. Source: ommander of Group 13, special unit of Ukraines Defence Intelligence, known as Thirteenth, in interview with TSN.Week, Sunday analytical program, quoted by press service of Defence Intelligence of Ukraine Quote from Thirteen: "We did not have to hide from aviation in this mission like we usually do. We were specifically looking for aerial targets. We were full of determination to confront the enemy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We were spotted. We started working. The most we had right next to us was three helicopters at one point, despite the Su aircraft flying there." Details: The ommander of Group 13 says it was necessary to aim and launch a missile at the identified target as quickly as possible. Quote from Thirteen: "A helicopter is fast enough. If you see it on the camera, it takes just a minute to get into a favourable position and strike." More details: With the first strike, Group 13 operators managed to hit a Russian helicopter: the Russian crew did not even realise what had happened. They even shot off airborne traps and then fell into the Black Sea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote from Thirteen: "Later, after some time, we received confirmation that the second one was downed. In total, we have two destroyed and one damaged [helicopters]." Background: On 31 December, DIU announced that its operatives had destroyed an aerial target using a Magura V5 USV for the first time in the world. DIU also released a radio interception of Russian communications confirming that a Russian helicopter had been hit by a USV on 31 December. On 1 January, several pro-war Russian milbloggers reported that Russia lost two helicopters, not one. On 2 January, DIU stated that, per updated information, not one but two Russian helicopters were destroyed by missiles from Magura V5 drones on 31 December, and another helicopter was damaged. Support UP or become our patron! Donald Trumps pick to run the Department of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., may receive some support, or at least an open mind, from some Senate Democrats. The Hill reports that Senators John Fetterman and Bernie Sanders may consider voting to confirm the former presidential candidates appointment to Trumps cabinet, citing Kennedys criticism of food additives, as well as corporate control of the U.S. food industry. I think Bernie will give him a fair review, one anonymous source told the publication, and a different pro-Kennedy source said Fetterman is definitely a swing vote for all of Trumps nominees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, Sanders wrote a column for The Guardian in which he criticized the U.S. health care industry and called for reform to the U.S. food industry, saying Large food corporations should not make record-breaking profits making children addicted to processed foods, which make them overweight and prone to diabetes and other diseases. These criticisms overlap with parts of Kennedys Make America Healthy Initiative plan, which includes promises to remove chemical additives from food and reduce federal funding for processed foods. Kennedy has said that Americans have been mass poisoned by big pharma and big food, and Trump has pledged to let Kennedy go wild. But Kennedys longstanding opposition to vaccines and pledge to ban water fluoridation has drawn criticism from Democrats and Republicans alike, and hell have a tough time selling those parts of his ideology to the Senate. Republican Senator Bill Cassidy, a doctor, said on Fox News Sunday that Kennedy was wrong on vaccines, but still planned to meet with the nominee this week. Kennedy has met with many senators in recent days to bolster his cabinet bid, including Republicans John Barrasso, Shelley Moore Capito, and Marsha Blackburn. But, in addition to concerns about his medical views, Kennedy also faces from the GOP over his support for abortion, which means his confirmation is far from a done deal. During Indiana's historically competitive gubernatorial Republican primary election this spring, a bipartisan group of centrists emerged to encourage Democrats to vote for a moderate candidate in that Republican primary. They even erected billboards with the head-turning message, "Even Democrats can vote in the Republican primary." The people behind it, a group called ReCenter Indiana, were not surprised to see a bill filed for the upcoming legislative session, which starts Wednesday, that would put the kibosh on that. "We were absolutely expecting it," said Adrianne Slash, president of the group's PAC. A worker installs a billboard along I-465 near Allisonville Road in March 2024 from ReCenter Indiana, a bipartisan group that launched a campaign encouraging Democrats to cross over and vote in the Republican primary. House Bill 1029, written by Whiteland Republican Rep. Michelle Davis, would make Indiana a "closed primary" state by establishing a formal process for Hoosiers to affiliate with a specific party and allowing only those who've followed that process to vote in that party's primary. Should the bill proceed, Indiana would join a national trend of Republican-led states seeking to close their primaries in the interest of wresting more control over ideological alignment within their elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Primary elections should reflect the true will of a political party's members," Davis said in a statement to IndyStar. "By moving to a closed primary system, Indiana can ensure that the nominees selected by each party represent the values and priorities of its supporters." ? and fellow lawmakers gather in the Indiana Statehouse on Org Day, or organization day on Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, in Indianapolis. Louisiana lawmakers closed their primaries last year. A similar bill is working through the Ohio legislature. Wyoming passed primary voting restrictions after Democrats unabashedly crossed lines to vote for U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney in her 2022 primary, which she lost. "These are states that are safely Republican, that are trying to ensure that there are no 'RINOs,' that the people that are winning these Republican primaries surely reflect the orthodoxy," said Greg Shufeldt, associate professor of political science at the University of Indianapolis. House elections committee chair Rep. Timothy Wesco, a Republican from Osceola who would decide whether the bill gets heard, did not respond to a request for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sign up for our politics newsletter The trend is more of a counter-movement to the longer-held pattern of opening up primary elections in the United States, Shufedlt said. Parties have gone from picking their own candidates in smoke-filled rooms to opening up the choice to voters, and in recent decades, the majority of states have shifted to "open" primaries in which one doesn't need to register with a party to vote in their primary. Indiana is one of those states, sort of. That's how our system works in practice, though Indiana law actually states that a person can vote in a party's primary if they voted for mostly that party's candidates in the last general election, or intends to in the next one. It's an honor system without an enforcement mechanism. When Hoosiers register to vote for the first time, they don't declare a party affiliation; voting at the ballot box is Indiana's form of declaring a party affiliation. House Bill 1029 would require Hoosiers to file an official "party affiliation form" at the time they register to vote or not later than Dec. 31 before the primary election in which they want to vote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That Dec. 31 deadline, however, is far earlier than the voter registration deadline, which in Indiana is 29 days before an election. That means first-time voters who wait until the voter registration deadline will have already missed their window to declare a party and participate in that year's primary. (Under this bill, counties would mail out affiliation forms to already-registered voters in September.) More: Indiana voter turnout is almost last in the nation. Many are working to turn this around. Opponents of closed primaries argue that they exclude independent voters whose share of the voting bloc is ever-increasing, especially among young people from having a voice in elections, especially in states overwhelmingly controlled by one party where the primaries contain the real contests. In other words, since Republicans have the numbers to dominate statewide general elections, the primary is where voters can really determine their leaders. Closing primaries, Slash argues, discourages participation and "sends a really big, loud and clear signal, you get what you get in November, let us handle May." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "And I don't think that that's fair to Hoosiers," she said. The impact of the bill may be more symbolic than sizeable, however. So few people vote in primaries especially in Indiana, where an abysmal 14% of registered voters cast ballots in the 2022 primaries. That's what drives ideological polarization, not necessarily the type of primaries states have, Shufeldt said. "Whether it's open or closed, the only people that are voting in these primaries are active liberal Democrats and active conservative Republicans," he said. "It's not really fundamentally changing who's willing to participate in the system. And so much of it is kind of like, 'Much Ado About Nothing.'" Contact IndyStar state government and politics reporter Kayla Dwyer at kdwyer@indystar.com or follow her on Twitter @kayla_dwyer17. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indiana GOP lawmaker proposes closed primaries, formal party registration Former Jefferson County Clerk and Recorder George Stern is considering a run for Colorado secretary of state in two years, the Democrat told Colorado Politics. WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) Demolition is expected to begin at the old Hotel at Wichita Falls this week, with structural demolition set to begin on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. According to a press release from the City of Wichita Falls, the Midwest Wrecking Company of Texas will begin demolition on the long-abandoned structure, working from the inside out. The project is expected to be completed by the end of February 2025. RELATED: City of Wichita Falls inching closer to demolishing old Falls Hotel Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the hotel first opened in 1985, the 170-room hotel was originally a Sheraton. It underwent various name changes until it closed over 10 years ago. Photo of hotel by the artificial waterfall in Wichita Falls (Photo credit: KFDX/KJTL) After many years of dealing with transients and burglars, broken windows, and flooding issues, the city moved to have the property condemned and purchased by eminent domain. The city and owners then agreed this summer to sell the hotel and part of the land. The city acquired the property the hotel is on in August when the council approved a settlement agreement with Wichita Falls Hospitality. The city acquired 35 percent of the land for public park space. In November 2024, the Wichita Falls City Council approved $381,000 of 4B Sales Tax dollars for the cost of the demolition. This is a developing story. Stick with Texomas Homepage for updates as more information becomes available. Close Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Texomashomepage.com. DENVER (KDVR) A Denver area man is thankful to be alive tonight after spending nearly three days lost in the mountains when his Jeep became stuck while off-roading. Christopher Marzak is no stranger to driving off-road, its one of his favorite hobbies. In early November, Marzak headed west from Centennial in his Jeep. FOX31 Weather: View the latest Denver forecasts, maps and radar I love Colorado, man, he said. The mountains and the snow is the best. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He started to drive off-road out near Gunnison. Thats when his Jeep got stuck on a log and he left it on foot to search for help. The night got up on me when I was out there looking for somebody and I couldnt make myself, I couldnt get back to my Jeep, said Marzak. Dont get scared a lot, but I was pretty scared. As a snowstorm rolled through, he started to be in pain. About that time my feet started to freeze, said Marzak. His hands, too: Frostbite was settling in. I wouldnt say I lost hope, but I was losing, I was just losing me by then, he said. Photos: This weather phenomenon was seen in the Denver metro this weekend Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Marzak remembers hallucinating that groups of people showed up and he followed them in his search for help. Thats when he says he stumbled on a trailer with a woman outside. When she saw me coming up on my hands and knees, I mean she, like, freaked out, he said. But when she came up to him, she already had a feeling of who he was. She was like, Oh my god, are you the guy with the Jeep? he recalls her asking. Marzak said he thinks his Jeep had only been stranded about a mile from the trailer where the woman had found it abandoned. He was flown by helicopter to UCHealth in Denver, where amputations were necessary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All four of my fingers on each hand. They took five toes from my right foot, he said. Im OK with it because like I said, by Gods grace, Im here today. Officers looking for answers after dog eats rodent poison in Castle Pines neighborhood As he now learns to adapt to his new life, Marzak said that nothing is going to keep him down. Something like this would drive, you know, somebody crazy a little bit probably. But thats just not my attitude, he said. Marzak is thankful for his friend Chris and co-workers for supporting him after his return home. His family set up a GoFundMe for him to help with medical costs. Before clicking, please note that some images on the GoFundMe may be disturbing to some people. The GoFundMe is linked here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. DENVER (KDVR) Tuesday is a Pinpoint Weather Alert Day as snow is expected to fall in the Denver metro leaving potential morning commute issues. Over the weekend, almost a foot of snow fell in some areas of Colorado, canceling dozens of flights and delaying over a thousand others. Heading into the workweek, the winter weather is expected to continue, and so are the delays. FOX31 Weather: View the latest Denver forecasts, maps and radar Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres everything you should know about the upcoming snowstorm: Timing The majority of the storm takes place on Monday night into Tuesday morning. The Pinpoint Weather forecast shows a sunny start, but winter weather advisories are in place along the Front Range from Monday at 11 p.m. until Tuesday afternoon. Advisories on Jan. 6, 2025 (KDVR) According to the Pinpoint Weather team, the snow will start to fall in Denver on Monday after dinnertime and continue into Tuesday morning. Snow showers will continue Tuesday before tapering off by Tuesday afternoon. Snow timing (Courtesy of National Weather Service) Wednesday will be sunny, however, morning lows will be in the single digits for many areas. ?Then more snow on Thursday. Snow totals Theres already snow on the ground in many parts of Colorado, and theres more ahead. Forecast on Jan. 6, 2025 (KDVR) Once the snows wrapped up on Tuesday night, there should be around 2 to 5 inches of snow in the metro, while other nearby areas could see more or less. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photos: This weather phenomenon was seen in the Denver metro this weekend Expected snowfall on Jan. 7 (KDVR) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The foothills could see up to 6 inches while other areas like Fort Collins could see as little as 1 to 3 inches. What to expect The biggest effects of the storm will come during the commute home on Monday and especially the commute to work on Tuesday. The Pinpoint Weather team said the snow could be an issue for those traveling after dinnertime on Monday and there will be slick and slippery roads for the Tuesday morning commute. Pinpoint Weather Alert Day on Jan. 7, 2025 (KDVR) The snow mostly wraps up late Tuesday morning, so there shouldnt be much of a problem heading home on Tuesday night. Meanwhile, there could also be issues at the airport on Monday and into Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While there will be less than half a foot of snow in Denver, this is the first notable snow since November. Be sure to check the forecast and road conditions before heading out. Denver, Colorado weather resources Stay prepared for storms and forecast changes, a Pinpoint Weather Alert Day and other important weather information: The Pinpoint Weather team will continue to update the forecast multiple times each day. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. The Maine Department of Labor will manage contributions paid by employers into the new paid family and medical leave system through an online portal. (Photo by Maine Morning Star) At the onset of the year, Maine employers began withholding a portion of wages to pay into the new paid family and medical leave fund, which the Department of Labor will manage through an online system launched on Monday. On the paid family and medical leave portal, employers will be able to register, designate a payroll processor, file quarterly wage reports and remit quarterly premium contributions, according to a news release from the Maine Department of Labor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All employers must register on the portal to start reporting wages in April. The first quarterly wage reporting and premium payments are due by April 30. We encourage employers to register and explore the new portal as soon as possible in order to be prepared to begin wage reporting in April, and encourage people to stay up to date by visiting our website, said Luke Monahan, director of paid family and medical leave for the department. In the first hour after the portal launched, more than 100 employers successfully registered, the department noted. So far, it has taken an average of nine minutes to register from a desktop and five minutes from a mobile device. Self-employed individuals and tribal governments can also use the portal to elect to have coverage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starting Jan. 1, employers with at least one Maine-based employee were required to start making contributions into the system. Employers with 15 or more workers will contribute 1% of wages, but may deduct half of that from employee wages. Employers with fewer employees will contribute 0.5% and may take all of it from employees wages. The department finalized the rules for the benefits program last month after multiple rounds of public input. The program will allow eligible public and private sector workers to take up to 12 weeks of paid leave for reasons such as illness, to care for a loved one or the birth of a new child. Employees are expected to be able to access the benefit starting May 1, 2026. The department has a call center specifically for questions related to paid family and medical leave, which can be reached at 207-621-5024. Its open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The department worked with FAST Enterprises the same company that created the Maine Tax Portal to build the online contributions portal. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Deputies in Orange County are investigating after a shooting inside of a Lynx bus Monday morning. 3:10 p.m. update: LYNX officials said the firearm that was discharged on the bus was an isolated incident with one non-life-threatening injury. LYNX said there were no injuries to other passengers or the bus operator. Previous: The shooting happened around 7:10 a.m. near the intersection of Alafaya Trail and East Colonial Drive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies said they were called about an accidental discharge of a gun on a Lynx bus. Watch: Flagler County deputy crashes into man who allegedly flashed gun while ridding bicycle When deputies arrived, they found a woman in her 50s who had been shot. The victim was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Read: St. Cloud motorcyclist killed in Polk County crash Deputies said there is no threat to the community and an investigation is ongoing. LYNX has provided the following statement: Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. House Speaker Adrienne Jones talks about the legislative session that starts Wednesday, her sixth as speaker, in her State House office on Jan. 2. Photo by William J. Ford. As she begins her sixth legislative session leading the House on Wednesday, Speaker Adrienne Jones (D-Baltimore County) admits that a projected $2.7 billion deficit will be the dominant issue for lawmakers but she doesnt believe it has to be the only one. I understand the importance of the budget as a tool to protect our most vulnerable Marylanders, she said during an interview last week in her office in Annapolis. We [have] tough budget and revenue decisions to make. Despite these fiscal realities, we do plan to protect the investment we made in education, health and transportation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One way to safeguard Marylanders is to craft proactive legislation against the administration of President-elect Donald Trump (R), whos scheduled to be sworn in Jan. 20. Jones said one proposed piece of legislation would focus on protecting the Affordable Care Act. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, the Trump administration could use an executive order to quickly implement changes to the act, such as shortening the open enrollment period, approving or rejecting state waivers, or removing protections for those in the LGBTQ community. Any House bills to protect the ACA would be handled by the House Health and Government Operations Committee, chaired by Del. Joseline Pena-Melnyk (D-Prince Georges and Anne Arundel), who Jones praised as a committee chair residents can depend on and who has got your back. Its unclear what other policies a Trump administration may try he or his proposed agency heads have talked of mass deportations, slashing federal regulations and workforce, halting offshore wind energy and reevaluating vaccination policies, among other plans. But Jones said to stay tuned for other possible legislation to blunt any such changes, such as protection of minority business enterprises programs and affordable housing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, the speaker said she is working on her own package of bills focused on social equity laws, though she had few details to share last week. We need to support communities that have been historically and disproportionately affected by certain policies, she said. These bills are still in drafting right now, so only thing I can tell you is stay tuned. This years proposals could mirror a package of bills the speaker championed last year that she called the decency agenda. The main measure included the protection of books and other materials in schools and public libraries, and prohibited retaliation against employees for adhering to state standards on the issue. It was sponsored by Del. Dana Jones (D-Anne Arundel) and signed into law in April. It went into effect immediately to make Maryland one of the first states in the nation with strong protections to preserve access to information in libraries, among other provisions. Other legislative priorities Jones said the House and Senate plan to work together on addressing energy, a topic mentioned last month at the Maryland Association of Counties winter conference in Cambridge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She also noted another topic discussed at the conference: the Blueprint for Marylands Future education reform plan. Last year, the legislature approved a bill tweaking parts of the Blueprint House Bill 1426 such as altering student-teacher ratio (maximum of 20 children per classroom) for a qualified provider who receives a prekindergarten expansion grant. Some state lawmakers and school leaders have argued recently that changes are needed to the costly and sweeping Blueprint plan, now in its third year of implementation. But Jones said the House will have a high bar for any cuts to the Blueprint. As we continue to invest more and more every day in pre-K, K-12 [kindergarten to through 12th grade] and child care, we have to make sure these investments are building capacity. We must make sure that we are getting every dollar out of every investment we make in our public schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She continued: Additionally, when it comes to the independence of our public education system, we will protect our students from a federal agenda that will harm the most vulnerable students to score cheap political points. As for Trump himself, Jones simply said, Im not in favor of that man at all. When it comes to criminal justice reform, Jones said the House Judiciary Committee plans to review a report last month on the state Department of Juvenile Services (DJS). The report, conducted by the Office of Program Evaluation and Accountability, had several recommendations, including that DJS should collection data that allows for provider-level assessment of effectiveness based on youth outcomes. In its response, the agency said it remains committed to collecting data and expanding data collection tools to enhance data to ensure youth outcomes are at the optimal level and current providers are effective. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In terms of other criminal justice issues, Jones credited the partnership with Gov. Wes Moore (D) and his administration, especially when it comes to measures approved by the legislature, compared to former Gov. Larry Hogan (R). When it comes to our criminal justice system, I feel confident that we have the tools in place for proper oversight, reform and rehabilitation, Jones said. For the first time in a decade, we have an administration that is willing to use the public safety reforms the legislature has passed and is more concerned about getting it right, rather than just looking tough on crime. An old office building in Norfolks Riverview Village neighborhood could soon have new life as an apartment complex thanks to a Richmond developer who has completed several projects in Hampton Roads. The Monument Cos., which worked on the former Virginian-Pilot newsroom and other adaptive reuse projects, plans to turn the four-story, 26,000-square-foot office building at 4101 Granby St. into 28 apartments and construct 26 more in a new four-story, 20,876-square-foot building on the northwest corner of the property. Company leaders had been discussing the proposal with the previous property owner and purchased the building in 2021, said Chris Johnson, Monument Cos. principal and co-founder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The location is in Cruser Place, which was listed as a state and national historic district within Riverview in 2021. That designation made the project both interesting and financially viable, Johnson said in an email, because the development will be funded with state and federal historic rehabilitation tax credits. The existing structure is a former bank building constructed in 1967, according to city documents and the Virginia Department of Historic Resources. Though figures are not yet finalized, Johnson said the total cost of the project is approaching $10 million. The buildings will feature mostly one-bedroom apartments with six two-bedroom units in the existing building, Johnson said. He said all units will be market-rate apartments. Each building, Johnson said, will have some ground-floor commercial space: 808 square feet in the new building and another 1,530 square feet facing Granby Street in the old structure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The building at 4101 Granby St. has a few existing tenants, including Councill Realty & Management and attorney Bruce Gould, according to the businesses websites. Johnson said all tenants will be relocating. Monument plans to begin construction on the development in March or April and the process will take about 16 months, Johnson said. Several businesses, like Pittie Dog Grill, Lo Mo Pizzeria and Leila International Cuisine have opened in Riverview during the past few years. John Childers, co-owner of MJs Tavern, is also working to reopen the historic Riverview Theater. Trevor Metcalfe, 757-222-5345, trevor.metcalfe@pilotonline.com Jan. 5COLUMBUS In accordance with the orders issued by U.S. President Joe Biden, in honor of the life and service of former President James Earl Carter, Jr., Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has ordered that the flags of the United States and the State of Ohio shall be flown at half-staff upon all public buildings and grounds throughout state for a period of 30 days from the day of his death. The flags shall remain lowered until sunset on Jan. 28, 2025. Carter, the nation's 39th president, died Dec. 29, 2024 at age 100. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DeWine also paid his respects to Carter in a statement. "Fran and I are saddened to hear of the death of former President Jimmy Carter," he said. "President Carter lived his faith through his public life, and he had one of the most impactful post-presidencies in American history. He dedicated his life to humanitarian work, including the building of housing through Habitat for Humanity, for which he became synonymous. He founded the Carter Center to support democracy and fight disease across the globe." DeWine also spoke of Carter's military service and his long marriage. "President Carter was a member of our Greatest Generation, and was awarded the World War II victory medal, among others, for his service in the United States Navy," DeWine said. "President Carter was our longest living ex-president, and he and the late first lady Rosalynn were the longest-married presidential couple in history, having celebrated their 77th wedding anniversary. Fran and I extended our sincerest condolences to President Carter's children Jack, James, Donnel, and Amy, and his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren." With the state's new legislative session slated to get under way on Jan. 8, Democrats have two vacancy seats to fill in two Senate districts. House Democrats may be absent at the start of Minnesota's 2025 legislative session in order to prevent quorum while Republicans have a temporary, one-seat advantage. The Minnesota Reformer, citing legislative sources familiar with the matter, first reported on the DFL's potential power play Monday morning. In a statement following the news, DFL House Speaker-designate Rep. Melissa Hortman, DFL-Brooklyn Park, said Democrats "are prepared to use all parliamentary tactics available to us in the absence of a power-sharing agreement on the first day of session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking at a press conference Monday afternoon, Hortman confirmed DFL lawmakers will not show up unless an agreement is reached. The circumstances at play Walz has ordered a Jan. 28 special election to fill a vacancy in House District 40B after the resignation of Rep.-elect Curtis Johnson. Johnson, a Democrat, was found by a judge to have violated candidate residency requirements. Ahead of the House special election, in which Democrats are expected to hold onto the seat, Republicans hold a temporary one-vote advantage with a 67-66 split of power. House leader Rep. Lisa Demuth, R-Cold Spring, told KARE 11 that Republicans "are fully going to be operating as if we are in the majority in the House of Representatives." Matthew Deery, Flickr According to the Minnesota Reformer, Republicans wouldn't have the 68 votes needed to pass laws, however, they could elect Demuth as the new speaker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And, if the Republican caucus stays together, a tied House would mean Democrats would be unable to remove her even after the special election. "We have no interest in spending January locked in partisan warfare with House Republicans, but we do not intend to allow them to pretend that 67 votes is a majority and engage in an illegitimate power grab," Hortman stated. Democrats have also voiced concern that Republicans could refuse to seat Rep.-elect Brad Tabke, a Democrat from Shakopee, who won by 14 votes. Those results are facing a legal challenge after Scott County officials said 20 ballots were accidentally discarded. DFL Party Chair Ken Martin on Monday afternoon released a statement regarding what the party is calling the GOP's "illegitimate power grab attempts." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Despite failing to win a majority and losing the popular vote for House, Minnesota Republicans have stopped at nothing to try to override the will of the voters to seize power," Martin stated. He continued: "House Republicans have even suggested they will refuse to seat a duly elected DFL legislator the height of an abuse of power. Republicans should honor the power sharing agreement and drop their efforts to deny representation to voters in DFL districts. We will not stand by and allow their attempts at illegitimate power grabs to go unanswered. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that the Ukrainian authorities are firmly opposed to any attempts to profit from the war. He said that not only does the country not make money from the aid it receives, but also actively punishes those who try to abuse the situation. Source: Zelenskyy in an interview with American podcaster Lex Friedman Details: The president stressed that most international assistance to Ukraine is provided through weapons, not money. He stated that the Ukrainian authorities would respond firmly to any attempts to misuse the aid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote: "Where we saw risks that something could be a weapon, we would punish everyone severely. And believe me, this is not only about Ukraine." "We did not profit from the war. If we found someone, believe me, we punished everyone severely, and we did that and will continue to do so." Details: Zelenskyy also noted that spreading disinformation is another problem that undermines Ukraine's credibility and makes it difficult to get support from international partners. Quote: "When someone says that Ukraine was selling weapons - and, by the way, Russia was the one pushing this narrative - we always responded: our soldiers would kill such people with their own hands, without any trial. Do you honestly think anyone could steal weapons by the truckload when we ourselves dont have enough on the front lines? And yet, we have to provide proof to defend ourselves. Because when theres an abundance of such misinformation, distrust starts to grow." "Therefore, believe me, we are fighting more against disinformation than against particular cases (of arms sales - ed.)." Support UP or become our patron! President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview published on Jan. 5 that those responsible for pressuring Kyiv to sign the Budapest Memorandum should be jailed, and signatory countries who gave security assurances "didnt give a s**t" about Ukraine. Speaking in the interview with American podcaster Lex Fridman, Zelensky said Ukraine tried multiple times to have the terms of the agreement enforced but received no responses. The Budapest Memorandum was signed on Dec. 5, 1994, and saw Ukraine sign the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and give up nuclear weapons left on its territory after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In exchange, Kyiv received security assurances from the U.S., the U.K., and Russia. China and France gave weaker assurances at the same time. All countries agreed to engage in varying levels of consultations in the event of Ukraine's territorial integrity being threatened. Twenty years after signing the agreement, Russia launched a war against Ukraine, occupying Crimea and parts of eastern Ukraine. Thirty years in, Russia is now actively conducting a full-scale offensive against Ukraine. In the interview with Fridman, Zelensky said Ukrainian officials requested consultations three times over several years from the start of Russias aggression in 2014. "Everyone should be in consultation. Everyone must come. Everyone must meet urgently, the U.S., Britain, Russia, France, China," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Did anyone come, you ask? No. Did anyone reply to these letters, official letters? They are all recorded by diplomats. Did anyone conduct consultations? "No, and why not? They didnt give a s**t." Read also: Will Ukraine develop its own nuclear weapons? Zelensky said Ukraine was pressured into signing the Budapest Memorandum, and those who came up with the agreement should be jailed. "We were under the pressure of the U.S. and Russia for Ukraine to give up (nuclear weapons). These two powers were exerting pressure," he said. "These two states negotiated to ensure that Ukraine does not have nuclear weapons. Ukraine agreed. Now we just need to find these people, and we just need to put in jail all of those who, frankly, invented all this." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year marked the 30th anniversary of the signing of the Budapest Memorandum, an occasion Zelensky remarked on during his evening address on Dec. 5. "Today marks 30 years of the Budapest Memorandum. Ten years of war. Not a single day did this document work," Zelensky said at the time. "And because of this, everyone in the world will now know that a mere signature by any state or any assurances or promises are not enough for security." Read also: Russia claims to capture Kurakhove, Ukraine says fighting ongoing in the sector Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. TSAILE, Ariz. (AP) Charles Monty Roessel, a former director of the federal Bureau of Indian Education and president of the first tribal college to be established in the United States, has died. He was 63. Dine College announced that Roessel died Monday while surrounded by his family. The school did not provide any details on the cause of death. Roessel had led the college since 2017 and was integral in helping it expand into a four-year institution. His administration also spearheaded programs including the development of a Navajo Nation tribal law program, which recently welcomed its first class of students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Navajo Nation Council Speaker Crystalyne Curley called Roessel a tireless advocate for tribal education and a visionary leader. His leadership and dedication were pivotal in shaping educational opportunities for Navajo students, and his efforts have left an indelible mark on the future of our people, she said in a statement. Roessel came from a family of educators. His parents helped to establish the Rough Rock Community School on the Navajo Nation and they played key roles in creating Navajo Community College, what is now Dine College, in 1968. A graduate of Chinle High School, Roessel earned a bachelors degree in photo communications from the University of Northern Colorado and went on to receive a masters degree from Prescott College. He spent a few years working as a journalist, photographer and editor for various publications, including the Navajo Times Today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He earned a doctorate in educational administration and supervision from Arizona State University and followed in his parents' footsteps, going to work at the Rough Rock Community School in 1998. He served as its executive director and superintendent before becoming an associate deputy director with the BIE in 2011. Two years later, he was appointed director of the bureau and oversaw nearly 200 schools serving Native American children in some 20 states. His career at the BIE ended in 2016 after the U.S. Interior Departments Office of Inspector General found that he had used his influence to obtain jobs for a close relative and a woman with whom he had a romantic relationship. He took the helm at Dine College several months later. In March 2024, the American Indian College Fund named Roessel as its tribal college president honoree for the year an award granted to those who have made positive and lasting impacts on the tribal college movement. Navajo Council Delegate Carl Slater, one of Roessel's nephews, said his uncle was a man of integrity. He dedicated his life to advancing the cause of our Dine and demonstrated his immense love for our learners, no matter their background, Slater said in a statement. "His children and family, who live his legacy each day, were his lifes greatest pride. His loss, while painful, is a challenge for each of us to serve, in our own ways, our Dine, families, clans, and communities. If Italy and Austria had a love child, the result would be Italys northeastern region of Trentino. A two-hour drive from both Innsbruck, Austria, and Venice, Italy, this dramatic, lofty land is emerging as a prime destination for epicurean nature lovers, and out from the shadow of its showier neighborselegant Veneto and Lombardy to the south and Germanic Alto Adige-Sud Tyrol to the north. From the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dolomites to its ancient Roman history and Northern European influenceshere are eight ways travelers can immerse themselves in the culture, cuisine, and history of Trentino. Ski the Dolomites Skiers come to Trentinos mountains for a more relaxed Italian style with their Alpenglow. Especially in places like Madonna di Campiglio, a world-class resort in the Brenta Range that until now has been better known to Central Europeans and Italians. Here proprietors of the mostly family-run hotel restaurantslike second-generation owners of Hotel Cerana, Margherita and Daniele Ceranatake as much pride in providing guests with a genuine welcome and refined cuisine as in the fiery sunset glow on the sheer facades of 10,000-foot Tosa Peak towering above. In southwestern Trentino, skiers hit the slopes at Madonna di Campiglio, a luxury ski resort surrounded by the Brenta Dolomites mountain range, a glacier, lakes, and hiking trails. Photograph Courtesy Polla Alessandro Gliding down the resorts 100 miles of interconnected slopes (or freestyling in Ursus Snowpark) is a great way to work up an appetite for elevated meals at one of the regions nearly 50 all-season mountain huts like cozy Pra de la Casa, where owner Matteo Ciaghis cheese-stuffed focaccia and tender spinach and cheese strangolapreti dumplings are served with a side of good humor by his wife, Doriana. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (Related: Why the Italian Dolomites is a popular nature and wellness destination.) Discover the Christmas markets This region embraces its Germanic past at Christmas when almost every town and village hosts their own lively Christmas Market. But in some places, like Faedo, a medieval burg with a 13th-century castle overlooking the Adige River valley, visitors will get the bonus of traditional Italian presepe viventeslive re-enactments of nativity scenes. The Christmas markets in Rango are open from mid-November to the end of December, selling handcrafted goods like wooden toys, ceramics, knitted scarves and hats, candles, soaps, jewelry, and locally produced honey, cheeses, and sauces. Photograph by Italy pics, Shutterstock In Trento, revelers ride the mini Christmas train between three of the capital citys holiday markets, while peaceful mountain villages like Rango and Canale di Tennorestored stone hamlets clinging to the Alpine foothills near Lake Gardadeck ancient stone passageways and cobbled streets with twinkling lights and fresh garlands. Try strolling the network of walking trails connecting these mountain hamlets around Tenno Lake. The faint ruts in the cobblestones are a living memory of handcarts once used by mountain folk to transport olives, walnuts, and apples to market. Sip Spumante The regional bubbly, Trentodoc, is the first Italian appellation reserved for sparkling wines made by bottle fermentationa technique that originated in Frances Champagne region. This metodo classico, practiced by Trentino winegrowers since 1902, produces Italys most-awarded sparkling wines. Wine connoisseurs should visit high-altitude wineries in the Cembra Valley, such as Corvee Winery and Cantine Ferrari, to taste some of the best wines in Trentino and Italy. Photograph by Diego Matteo Muzzini, Shutterstock Over 50 high-altitude wineries, mostly in and around the Adige and Cembra river valleys, transform chardonnay, pinot noir, and pinot meunier grapes into Italys top toasting wines. Standouts include those from the regions oldest producer, Cantine Ferrari, known for their award-winning Extra Brut Reserva del Fondatore, and 15-hectare Corvee Winerys sprightly Opera Riserva from vines that cling to the Cembra Valleys steep slopes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For an overview of Trentino's bubblies and tips about which wineries to visit, chat up the sommeliers at the Enoteca wine bar inside Trento's 16th-century Palazzo Roccabruna while tasting your way through five local wines (for 10 Euros on Thursdays through Saturdays from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.) Unplug on a wellness walk Hundreds of perfectly groomed trails for all levels of abilityfrom day hikes to spiritual camminos (walks) to challenging via ferrata routescrisscross Trentinos gorgeous mountain nature preserves, like the Adamello-Brenta and Paneveggio-Pale di San Martino parks, which are among the most well-managed in Italy thanks to the regions self-governing status. More than 153,000 acres, the Adamello Brenta Natural Park is the largest protected area in Trentino and includes the River Sarca which flows through the Val di Genova. Photograph by Martin Zwick, VISUM/Redux Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since these parks cover about one-third of the territory, visitors dont have to go far to unplug. Special highlights include seven all-season wellness-walk fitness trails in the Brenta range around Madonna del Campiglio. Explore centuries-old chestnut groves laced with ancient cobblestone paths leading to medieval San Stefano church or high-altitude pastures dotted with shepherds huts en route to the Vallesinella waterfall. Along the way, signposts offer tips for getting the most out of natures spa through walking in streams, inhaling the forest scents, or embracing a silvery birch trunk for the ultimate in forest bathing. (Related: Youve heard of forest bathing. Now try forest therapy.) Enjoy Trento, the regional capital Romans knew it as TridentumLatin for trident and a nod to the citys sheltered location between three spiky mountain peaks on the Adige River. The powerful prince-bishops, who ruled the region from 1027 to 1803 called it Trento. Today, the most populous city in the Italian Dolomites is both a jumping-off point for a myriad of outdoor activities and a peaceful university town with a growing culinary scene. Must-sees include Saint Vigil Cathedral, where the Council of Trent was held in the mid-16th century, and Buonconsiglio Castle, the Gothic-meets-Renaissance seat of the prince-bishops with its notable Cycle of Months, a series of frescoes found in the castles Torre Aquila (Eagle Tower). Visitors can also delve deep into 10,000 years of Italian history, art, and archeology by visiting five castles in Trento, Italy. Although the largest castle, Buonconsiglio Castle, is now a museum, it was a 13th-century fortress, residence for the citys prince-bishops. Photograph by mary416, Shutterstock Delve into the history of the Dolomite mountains that define this region at MUSE, the citys Renzo-Piano-designed science and nature museum. Or join the evening passeggiataan aperitif-hour stroll common throughout Italyalong the historic centers pedestrian ways. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For an immersive culinary experience, book a table for a casual lunch or dinner tasting menu at Augurio, a contemporary Italian restaurant owned by the three Augurio brothers who are also chefs. The open kitchen lets guests watch the action. Save room for mouth-watering desserts like the brothers original twist on the chestnut puree-filled Mont Blanc and be sure to check out the vaulted cantina for a peek at some of the finest bottles from the Alps and elsewhere in Italy. (Related: Five relaxing experiences in Trentino and South Tyrol, Italys adventure capital.) Visit the grappa producers of Santa Massenza After a convivial multicourse Italian meal (is there any other kind?) its no wonder that a shot of grappaItalys potent distilled spirit made from grapesis de rigueur for digestion. Grappa is either sipped neat or, in the Trentino region, poured into your empty espresso cup for a rinse (resentim in the local dialect). Learning about Italys grappa opens doors to another kind of spiritual culture, especially in the villages clustered around the bucolic Valley of the Lakes, where 30 percent of Italys grappa is produced. Home to five artisanal grappa distilleries, the small town hamlet of Santa Massenza is a fine place to wander from distillery to distillery. Just dont get confused by seeing Poli on most signs. All five owners are descendants of Francesco Poli, the first distiller in the village. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grandson Pierpaolo Poli, whose father owns the Giovanni Poli Distillery, also produces a spectacular still white wine made from the Nosiola grape, which is used to make the best grappa, as well as Vino Santoa historic late-harvest passito or Italian dessert wine lauded by Slow Food. Wrap up your grappa tour with a stop at Hosteria Toblino, the local cooperative where you can purchase all the wines from the area and taste Chef Sebastian Sartorellis beautifully-plated creative cuisine with a smile in an unpretentious setting, elbow-to-elbow with local wine producers. Taste cheese and charcuterie at Alimentari Caola Family-owned since 1921, Alimentari Caola, a tiny gourmet grocery in Pinzolo, overflows with artisanal products from around the region. Reserve in advance and Antonio Caola or his daughter Letizia will walk you through their emporiums locally cured meats, mountain cheeses, wines, beer, sweets, and sparkling wines before sitting you down for a tasting of local treats selected by nonna (grandmother) Poldina, who is 96 and still rules the basement cheese counter. For a bonus, Antonio can facilitate visits to some of his small local producers, like the Il Petar micro-winery and agriturismo, where the owners produce small-batch natural wines from native grapes along with savory traditional treats like Trentingrana cheese and chard-stuffed dolmas wrapped in grape leaves. Follow the Olive Trail Since Roman times, Trentinos southern reaches have provided fertile terrain for olive groves. A well-marked olive trail takes visitors on a nearly five-mile stroll in, above, and around Arco, the historic town where Empress Sissi and the Hapsburg court wintered in 1889. Marvel at millennia-old olive trees and visit an old mill as you ascend the cobblestone path through the villages communal grove to the picturesque ruins of Arcos 12th-century fortress. From there, Lake Gardas waters sparkle in the distance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For a less strenuous sensory adventure, or to expand your olive oil cred, book a tour and tasting at the state-of-the-art OlioCru mill and boutique in nearby Riva del Garda. The friendly English-speaking staff is a fountain of knowledge about everything related to the regions unique varieties of liquid gold. Cap off your day of olive exploration with a tender crunch by dredging perhaps the most delicious homemade breadsticks youll ever come across in a saucer of local oil at Antiche Mura. At this restaurant, native chef David Cattoi takes his guests on a contemporary culinary journey featuring Trentinos bounty. Then, wander down through the pedestrian old town to Riva di Gardas historic port, or up the Old Ponale Road path for breathtaking views of the lake. Getting around From the U.S., travelers can take a connecting flight from Europe to Verona Lake Garda Airport. Reserve a car at the airport, but remember to request snow tires during the colder months. The regional capital, Trento, can also be reached by train or bus. Regional buses connect the main cities. Where to stay In the Dolomites and on Lake Garda, two locally-owned Lefay Resort properties make it easy to learn about Trentinos culinary culture in a luxurious setting. At Michelin-starred Grual Restaurant, the decor evokes an enchanted forest and Chef Matteo Maenzas regionally-inspired tasting menu provides a sense of place on your plate: from Lake Garda pikefish in meniere sauce, to pillowy red turnip gnocchi, to Alpine saddle of venison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Madonna di Campiglio, ski-in ski-out Hotel Cerana offers posh, understated style and a rooftop spa for unwinding, while smaller, chalet-style Hermitage Hotel has perhaps the best sunset views from its riverfront great room (and a Michelin-starred restaurant). Riva del Garda, the main town on the lakes northern shore, offers plenty of options, like Antiche Muraa family-owned B&B (and restaurant) that brings a contemporary touch to the old city. Ceil Miller Bouchet is an Iowa- and France-based writer who specializes in wine and food. Follow her on Instagram. Today Congress counted the states electoral votes and certified the results of the November presidential election. One of the last steps before President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration in a few weeks. This perfunctory ceremony had the House and Senate meeting jointly with Vice President Kamala Harris presiding. For years, the certification of the Electoral College was the start of the peaceful transfer of power from the sitting president to the president-elect. The process this year went smoothly and looked very different from what the world witnessed four years ago with the Capital riot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For much of our history, this proceeding was treated as pro forma, a routine act, President Joe Biden wrote in an op-ed published by The Washington Post. But after what we all witnessed on Jan. 6, 2021, we know we can never again take it for granted. What happened on Jan. 6, 2021? The 2020 presidential election pitted Biden against Trump during a global pandemic. Biden came out on top. Trump claimed the loss was due to election fraud, a claim that was repeated multiple times by speakers at what started as a protest and devolved into a riot in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 6, 2021, the day Congress was meeting to confirm Biden's win. That morning Trump reiterated the election fraud claim and told those gathered that, "I know that everyone here will soon be marching over to the Capitol building to peacefully and patriotically make your voices heard." He also told those gathered to "fight like hell." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thousands of rioters breached the Capitol that day, leaving in their wake a path of destruction, injuries and death. In the aftermath, Trump called the insurrection a "heinous attack," but that particular phrase did not last. In the months leading up to the 2024 election, he praised the storming of the Capitol calling it a "day of love," and has repeatedly referred to the more than 1,500 Jan. 6 defendants as "political prisoners" and "hostages." Trump has stated that he will be looking at the cases and start issuing pardons not long after he takes office again. He also stated that there may be "some exceptions" if an individual had acted radical or crazy during the assault. When does Trump take office 2025? Trump will take the oath of office for his second, and final, term as president on Jan. 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C. How can I get tickets for Trump's inauguration? Tickets to Trump's upcoming inauguration at the U.S. Capitol are free to the public. Tickets are distributed through members of Congress and are typically released to Congress members' offices starting in early January, the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies said in a Dec. 23 press release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 220,000 tickets are set to be distributed to those offices all over the country, according to the JCCIC. Can Trump run for president again after this term? No. How presidential terms work might be a bit confusing, but essentially, the Constitution only allows a person to hold the highest office in the United States twice (and it does not have to be consecutive) and the terms can not run indefinitely. The 22nd Amendment states: "No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice, and no person who has held the office of President, or acted as President, for more than two years of a term to which some other person was elected President shall be elected to the office of the President more than once." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. hasn't always had them, but presidential term limits are not something new either. They have been around for more than 70 years. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: When will Trump take office? 2025 presidential inauguration coming BEDFORD, Pa. (WTAJ) A little over a year ago on Dec. 31, 2023, 94 dogs, 8 cats, and a tortoise were rescued from deplorable conditions in Bedford County. On Sunday, they gathered with their new owners for a reunion at the Bedford County Humane Society. Theyre just happy. Ive never seen him aggressive towards another dog. It was just so good to see all the dogs and all the other dogs and get caught up on the stories and just see how everyones doing so well, Crist King said. King adopted one of the dogs that was rescued and renamed him Chunk. His former name was Chungus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement King said that for Chunk and so many other animals, New Years Eve was their liberation day because it was the day they were taken out of the house. All the animals have been adopted and have found their happily ever after. Kathy Ramsey, the Shelter Manager at the Bedford County Humane Society, organized the reunion and welcomed all of the animals to attend with their new owners. We just take it one day at a time. Thats how we took it. I mean, when we walked in here, we had no plan. We didnt know what we were going to do with all these dogs. But it all came together, and they all found fantastic homes, Ramsey said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Flu cases spiking during holiday season, experts weigh in on what to look out for Since they were rescued, dogs like Peetey have made a name for themselves. Ill be walking up the alley and somebody will stop and put their window down and say is that Peetey? And I say, Yeah. They know him, but they dont know me. He was afraid of everything, and I mean everything. Didnt know steps. Didnt know doors or any noise. He didnt want to ride in the car, but he slowly got used to those kind of things. Hes very friendly with kids. He likes everybody, Barney Holland, Peeteys new owner said. Although theres a happy ending here, theres also passion to get justice for all of the animals that were rescued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Patience, they say, is a virtue. But were past that point now. Were going to were getting ready to roll. Were going to go everywhere we can talk to anybody. We can state representatives, things like that, to try to get this justice for these dogs. Its ridiculous what they went through. And these people are still out living life like nothing had ever happened, Michele Miller said. Miller adopted a dog named Murdoch. She chose not to change his name. His vet bills cost around $9,000. He had third-degree burns on his private parts. He had IVDD, which is a disc disease. He had to have four teeth pulled. He was septic from infections. He had to be neutered. He crashed three times, she recalled. 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. Bedford County District Attorney Ashlan Clark provided an update on the animal cruelty case in a statement released on Friday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clark said, While the District Attorneys office wishes that a swift resolution could be reached on these cases to bring some peace to the dozens of animals, community members, and rescue organizations affected, the Pipers cases are very complex and require significant preparation to ensure efficient and successful prosecution. Kecia Scott, who adopted one of the dogs and renamed him Stilwell, said its still a learning process for him. There are things that we still have to peel back the layers with his trauma, but he was learning to be a dog. And so my other dogs have helped him come along, and hes come a long way, but he still has a ways to go. To our DA in Bedford County, shes the voice for dogs like Stillwell. And I know that her heart is for animals. And so we just are cheering her on from the sidelines to go out and get justice for these animals, Scott said. More from WTAJ's Leanna Wells Clark said that the District Attorneys office hopes that these matters can be resolved in the upcoming months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Federal prosecutors are weighing charging as many as 200 more people for their involvement in the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol including 60 suspected of assaulting or impeding police officers during the riot that nearly derailed the transfer of power from Donald Trump to Joe Biden. The new figures, released by the Justice Department Monday, reveal for the first time how many cases prosecutors believe are pending as Trump prepares to take office and threatens to unravel the massive four-year probe. About 1,583 people have faced federal charges for their role in the attack including more than 600 facing felony charges for assaulting or resisting police during the chaos. Though the Justice Department has released monthly statistics on the Jan. 6 probe the largest federal prosecution in its history, according to DOJ leaders, Mondays figures are the first time prosecutors have estimated how many uncharged cases remain. Its a signal flare to Trump, who has indicated he expects to pardon many people involved in the attack but has repeatedly mischaracterized the status of the cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About 180 Jan. 6 defendants have faced charges for carrying a dangerous weapon on Capitol grounds, and another 153 have faced charges for destruction of government property. Prosecutors also emphasized what they say is their restraint in deciding which defendants to charge. Theyve largely opted against charging people who trespassed on Capitol grounds but didnt enter the building, and the Justice Department said that discretion has led them to decline about 400 cases presented for potential prosecution by the FBI. Because of this exercise of prosecutorial discretion, the typical charged January 6 rioter committed multiple federal crimes, prosecutors indicated in the update. The new figures also highlight how many pending cases Trump will inherit. Though about 1,100 defendants have been convicted and reached sentencing including 700 who have completed jail sentences or received no incarceration at all another 300 charged cases have not yet reached trial or a guilty plea, including about 180 facing felony charges. Trump has rooted his pardon pledge in a claim about the status of defendants held in Washington, D.C.s jail, which hes argued is unsafe. But the Justice Department indicated that just 10 Jan. 6 defendants including eight awaiting trial but detained because of other exacerbating factors remain in the D.C. jail. Growing numbers of dead dolphins are washing up on shore following the collision of two Russian oil tankers in the Kerch Strait between the Black and Azov Seas, according to ecologists. The deaths of 32 of the animals are believed to be linked to last month's spillage of heavy oil in the sea, the Russian environmental group Delfa wrote on Telegram on Sunday. "We receive new information on dead dolphins practically every day, keep statistics and regularly pass the data on to state bodies," the post said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The number of fatalities was "atypically high" for the time of year, Delfa emphasized. In mid-December, the two tankers crashed in a storm in the strait, resulting in the death of one crew member. The ships are said to have been carrying more than 9,000 tons of oil. The spillage has been washing up on the beaches of the southern Russian region of Krasnodar and the adjacent Crimean peninsula, which was illegally annexed by Russia in 2014. Thousands of volunteers are working to clean up the beaches but new oil slicks keep appearing. Environmentalists also expect large amounts of oil to wash up in the summer when the water temperature rises. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Emergency service staff have been trying to rescue birds covered in oil but ecologists say 90% of the birds that were taken in later died due to improper handling. Russian authorities at the scene have rejected the claim as "fake." According to the disaster response team, the proportion of animals that died on the way to release was less than 10%. Preliminary figures indicate that many school districts in the Colorado Springs area lost students over the past year. Academy D-20 and School District 49 released preliminary numbers from their October student counts that both show decreases in student enrollment during their board of education meetings Dec. 12. D-20 reported a slight drop of 38 students to 26,569 this fall while D-49 reportedly lost 109 students from last years 25,799 total. Both numbers come from totals tallied by the districts on Oct. 1, which is required every year by state law. While enrollment figures constantly change throughout the course of the school year, the Colorado Department of Education uses the October totals to calculate each districts annual per-pupil revenue amount, the primary source of funding for public education. Contrary to the rest of the state, D-49 increased student enrollment each year over the past five. This year would mark the first time D-20 lost enrollment since 2020. In D-49s case, this years loss of students amounts to about $1 million in per-pupil revenue, said budget manager Spencer McCabe during a presentation to the board. The board would later move to approve an amended budget for the current school year, based on this and other factors, at a later meeting in January. D-20s board will be presented with their own amended budget next month. Joining a regional trend Elsewhere in the Pikes Peak region, neighboring school districts reported their own drops in student enrollment this fall. 131 fewer students in Woodland Park School District RE-2, nine in Cheyenne Mountain D-12 and 18 in Lewis Palmer D-38 compared to figures recorded from the 2023-24 count were all presented over the past two months. A spokesperson for Colorado Springs District 11, the third-largest district in El Paso County, told The Gazette in an email that the district is waiting for the finalized totals to be released by the Colorado Department of Education in January before commenting on this years enrollment. If these numbers are finalized by the state, it would continue the trend of overall declining enrollment that was reported last year. The 881,464 preschool through high school students reported in 2023-24 marked the lowest in a decade, according to the CDE. Incoming Colorado Board of Education member Kathy Gebhardt told The Gazette that the trends identified in recent years like increasing homeschoolers can still be attributed to the declines felt across the state. As the former board president of the Boulder Valley School District, she added that districts in growing communities like hers, Colorado Springs and Falcon are indirectly impacted by factors for incoming families. Featured Local Savings The cost of living is part of it, so is the decline in birth rate and other societal factors that the districts themselves dont have a whole lot of control over, she said. For rural districts with smaller classes, staffing and infrastructure, Gebhardt noted that additional sources of funding revenue like mill levy overrides often arent available to account for revenue losses, as they are in larger districts, typically. Each district is unique, she said. And I would say that its up to each district and their board to determine their needs for their communities. School district responses A former director for the Colorado Association of School Boards, Gebhardt noted that these differences in economies and communities also lead different responses by the districts. To address their own declining enrollment in recent years, Boulder Valleys board of education developed a task force to engage with the community to determine district responses over a long period of time. Decisions to consolidate can range from closing schools to funding teachers and staff to cutting district-wide programming. The Denver Public Schools board of education voted unanimously to close seven schools and restructure three others to address enrollment challenges. The Jefferson County Public Schools Board of Education voted similarly to close 16 of its schools. Other districts like Colorado Springs D-11 have responded to decades of losing enrollment with the creation of charter schools, specialized curricula for existing schools and new programs to generate interest among local families. D-11 also rolled out a master plan in 2021 to account for building improvements and declining enrollment. Last years report marked the first time the district gained students since 2011. In Woodland Park, middle school students began attending classes at the school districts high school building this fall to account for its declining enrollment and to better utilize existing space. Gateway Elementary School also located in the district closed in 2024 for similar reasons. D-20 parents were informed in May that the Aspen Valley Campus would cease their middle school programming due to decreased interest and enrollment in their eighth-grade offerings and shift its focus toward curriculum {!--StartFragment--}{span data-olk-copy-source=MessageBody}that emphasizes students spending time in advisories, internships or externships with community partners. The decision was made to open up spaces for various programs in the district. {/span}{!--EndFragment--} Regardless of what each district and its board ultimately decide, Gebhardt said that it should always include planning and multiple opportunities for public involvement, given the community role the schools play for local families and neighborhoods. On a statewide level, adjustments were made during the 2024 legislative session to increase funding for English language learners, students with disabilities and low-income students. Since the current funding formula will continue to rely primarily on student totals, Gebhardt said further adjustments may be needed going forward. I think we have to start thinking about budgets that arent dependent on growth, she said. A lot of things happened. Here are some of the things. This is TPMs Morning Memo. Sign up for the email version. The Past Is Never Dead. Its Not Even Past. Like John Ganz, I find myself impatient with the commemoration of the fourth anniversary of the Jan. 6 attack. Impatient and frustrated. President Biden epitomizes the disconnect I feel. He wrote a mostly unobjectionable WaPo op-ed urging us not to forget Jan. 6, 2021, but as is his wont he was too quick to congratulate us on this years transfer of power being peaceful and too eager to declare it part of the past. Speaking to reporters yesterday about Trump, Biden said: I think what he did was a genuine threat to democracy, and Im hopeful that were beyond it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beyond it? After the Supreme Court first ignored the Disqualification Clause and then imbued the presidency with new and astonishing levels of immunity, hamstringing the criminal justice systems slow-motion effort to hold Trump to account for his election subversion crimes, its hard to sit here on this Jan. 6 four years later and be self-congratulatory or hopeful. The truth is what has transpired since that fateful January day is the worst nightmare of all of us who saw the attack coming, warned that election subversion had been underway for months, and feared that Jan. 6 wasnt a culmination but a beginning. I wrote in October, a week and half before the 2024 election, that Jan. 6 never ended and is ongoing to this day. That remains true, and Trumps willingness to abide by the results of an election he won shouldnt obscure what would have happened had he lost. Jan. 6 Anniversary Tidbits Politico: The Justice Department is weighing charging as many as 200 more people for their involvement in the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol. WaPo: U.S. Capitol Police chief opposes pardons for assaults against police Politico reports for the first time on an encounter last year between Al Gore and Mike Pence regarding Jan. 6. Trump To Be Sentenced Friday The judge in the New York hush money case is determined to sentence Donald Trump before his inauguration, setting a hearing for Jan. 10. Trump is expected to rush to get an appeals court to block the sentencing. The judge signaled that the sentence will not include jail time nor probation, a nod to the constitutional conflict posed by Trump having won re-election as president. Rudy G Contempt Hearing Enters Day 2 Rudy Giuliani will resume his testimony today in the contempt of court hearing in his defamation case, but he will be remote not in person unlike Fridays day-long session. Expect a report today once the hearing is over from TPMs Josh Kovensky, who was in court Friday. Mike Johnson Re-Elected Speaker In A Squeaker It took leaving the vote open for more than an hour and a phone call from Donald Trump cajoling two wayward GOP members but Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) was re-elected speaker in what would have been dramatic fashion were it not for the 2023 debacle of Kevin McCarthys multi-ballot win that crippled his speakership. The GOP Battle Plan Takes Shape Donald Trump has come down on the side of House Republicans and despite Senate GOP misgivings will push for one giant bill early this year combining his anti-immigration priorities with massive tax cuts for the wealthy and retrograde energy policies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It sets up a rapid-fire schedule on the Hill and a tough early test of the Trump majority in Washington. Trump will host a broad cross-section of House GOP members at Mar-a-Lago this weekend as he starts trying to sell the one-bill approach. New Orleans Attack Aftermath Shamsud-Din Jabbar made two trips to New Orleans ahead of the attack, the FBI said Sunday. Jabbar used Meta smart glasses to record video of the area during one trip, and they were recovered from him after the attack. Jabbar had planted IEDs in coolers around Bourbon Street before the attack, but failed to detonate them during the attack, the FBI said. Jabbar had traveled to Egypt and Canada in 2023 but investigators havent established a connection between those trips and the attack. President Biden is visiting New Orleans today to meet with first responders and families of the victims. Green Beret In Cybertruck Suicide Left Minifestos TPMs Josh Marshall: Those documents denounce Democrats and demand they be culled from Washington, by violence if necessary, and express the hope that his own death will serve as a kind of bell clap for a national rebirth of masculinity under the leadership of Donald Trump, Elon Musk and Bobby Kennedy Jr. Cartoonist At Bezos WaPo Resigns Over Interference A cartoon mocking WaPo owner Jeff Bezos was rejected by editorial page editors, prompting the resignation of Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist Ann Telnaes, who penned a level-headed, thoughtful explanation of the episode. Heres the draft cartoon in question: Bezos Amazon Doing Melania Trump Documentary Semafors Ben Smith: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The director and producer Brett Ratner, forced out of Hollywood at the peak of the #MeToo movement, will direct a documentary about First Lady Melania Trump for Amazon, the studio confirmed Sunday. The move is both a warm embrace by the e-commerce giant for the incoming administration and a dramatic return for Ratner, the director of X-Men: The Last Stand and the Rush Hour movies. Elon Musk Watch WaPo: Elon Musk goes global with his playbook for political influence Politico: Elon Musks European political meddling is worrying, says Norways PM The Guardian: Starmer condemns lies and misinformation as he hits back at Musk Not Good E&E News: Trump team takes aim at crown jewel of US climate research NYC Launches Congestion Pricing In Manhattan Manhattans long-awaited congestion pricing regimen was introduced Sunday, making today the first weekday it is in effect. Heres a cool real-time tracking site of the impact of the new policy. Do you like Morning Memo? Let us know! UPDATE: A New York judge rejected Donald Trumps effort to stop his sentencing this week for his criminal conviction in the hush money case. Earlier today, Trumps legal team claimed that the proceedings were automatically stayed as they pursued an appeal in the case. More from Deadline Judge Juan Merchan, though, wrote that Trump claims were a repetition of arguments he has raised numerous times in the past. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, Merchan scheduled Trumps sentencing for Friday, ten days before the inauguration. Trump was convicted last year of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records stemming from hush money payments made to Stormy Daniels in advance of the 2016 election. Trump has denied the claims, but Merchan has rejected his arguments to dismiss the conviction. PREVIOUSLY: Donald Trump is seeking to sideline Fridays planned sentencing following his conviction in the New York hush money trial last year. In a ruling last week, Judge Juan Merchan ordered Trump to be sentenced, while rejecting his efforts to dismiss the conviction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Merchan indicated that the president-elect would not be sentenced to jail time, but was unpersuaded by Trumps legal teams claims that he has presidential immunity. In their latest filing, Trumps attorneys argued that due to the fact that further criminal proceedings are automatically stayed by operation of federal constitutional law, the Court will lack authority to proceed with sentencing, must therefore immediately vacate the sentencing hearing scheduled for January 10, 2025, and suspend all proceedings in the case until the conclusion of President Trumps appeal on Presidential immunity. His attorneys argued that Trumps appeal triggered an automatic stay of the proceedings, but are still seeking the courts determination that the sentencing is on hold. Trumps legal team also said that they would seek an emergency stay with the appellate court if Merchan did not put on a hold on the sentencing proceedings. Merchan ordered Trump to appear at the sentencing, but left open the option of virtual attendance. Trump is scheduled to attend funeral services for former President Jimmy Carter on Thursday. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Presidents dont just wield power directly; they set the mood for the country. Its not uncommon for their grassroots base to flourish under their administration, as the far right did during Donald Trumps first term in office. It is less common, however, for that base to remain strong after defeat. But, defying the odds, the MAGA movement continued to flourish under Joe Biden. Now, with Trump returning to the White House, the far-right grass roots is barreling into 2025 with plenty of momentum, while its leader both helps set its agenda and sustains it by crowd-sourcing its conspiracies and lies for his own use. Issues and Themes The far right is currently animated by several themes, many of them interrelated. For several years, demonizing DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) frameworkswhich focus on identities, racial and otherwisewas an obsession. But the far right has gradually replaced DEI with woke, a vaguer and broader idea that can refer to the vast majority of left-leaning positions and be applied to any number of hot-button, culture-war topics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The backlash over gender, sexuality, and reproductive rights continues, with trans issues front and center. After Roe v. Wade was struck down in 2022, attacks on abortion rights increased. And when Trump was reelected, the slogan Your Body, My Choice spread like wildfire after being embraced by far-right leaders like Nick Fuentes. Anti-immigrant rhetoric has also increased, particularly as Trump has promised to deport tens of millions. His racist vilification of immigrants was epitomized by his embrace of unfounded rumors that Haitians in Springfield, Ohiowho were, for what its worth, legal residentswere stealing and eating pets. Finally, completely discredited race science theories have returned, often focusing on bogus IQ studies. Elon Musk, the worlds richest man, has promoted them on his social media platform, X, as has Trump, who has blamed violence by immigrants on bad genes. Donald Trump Donald Trump has different faces: the tax-cutting businessman, the international negotiatorand the authoritarian strongman. Sometimes he embraces different approaches at different times; mostly, though, he is everything at once: a demagogue and a xenophobe who is committing to cutting taxes for corporations and the wealthy and who pitches himself as the only man who can keep the countryand the worldsafe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Campaign promises have included setting up deportation camps for undocumented immigrantsin what he said would be a bloody storyand arresting critics and opponents, including Kamala Harris, Mark Zuckerberg, and members of the January 6 House committee. Trump also said hed consider banning vaccines and claims to have the power to halt congressional budget allocations. His appointments have also been gifts to his far-right base. The start of Trumps first term was largely characterized by a raft of relatively moderate, establishment-favorite picks, like Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, and chief of staff Reince Preibus. Now the situation is quite different. Stalwart MAGA Congressman Matt Gaetz was initially tapped to be attorney general, until accusations of sex with underage girls quickly sunk him. Tulsi Gabbard, a sympathizer to dictatorships in Syria and Russia, was picked as his director of national intelligence. Arguably the most infamous selection was the appointment of Musk to a proposed advisory commission, DOGE (a reference to a dated internet meme, it stands for the Department of Government Efficiency). Musk himself has repeatedly tweeted support for anti-immigrant conspiracy theories and most recently for the Alternative for Germany, or AfD, a far-right party many consider crypto-Nazis. The Far-Right Base The far right has two wings. One is openly white supremacist, and is vocally opposed to groups like people of color, Jews, Muslims, and LGBTQ+ people. The other is more moderate in its beliefs; people of colorthemselves an increasing part of Trumps baseare welcome, as are Jews. Both wings overlap in their hatred of communism (also a catchall term for anything to the left of them), embrace of conspiracy theories, contempt for democracy, and desire for traditional social hierarchies. The white supremacists and their moderate cousins often seesaw in popularity, one rising as the other falls. In recent years, the moderates have swung high. Moms for Liberty, which has focused on banning school library booksespecially ones with LGBTQ+ content but also books with pro-diversity or antiracist messagesstarted 2024 with almost 300 chapters. But their influence waned as the year went on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The notoriously violent Proud Boys, who played an important role in storming the Capitol four years ago, have faced even tougher times. With their leader, Enrique Tarrio, serving a 22-year sentence for his role in the assault on the Capitol, their scattered chapters now lack cohesion and focus. One exception is the armed militia movement, which is having a mild revival. Hurt by a massive Facebook deplatforming in 2020, these groups, as Tess Owen recently observed, have been quietly reorganizing, ramping up recruitment and rhetoric in recent months. Some groups hope to help Trumps deportation scheme. Conversely, open white supremacists are doing quite well. Active Clubswhite supremacist mixed martial arts training gymsare in full flourish and have even expanded overseas. While theyve had limited public activism, observers worry they could soon transform into a fully fledged fighting force. A new wave of swastika-waving neo-Nazis has emerged too. The media-friendly Blood Tribe, who use striking aesthetics and a confrontational approach, were early promoters of the pet-eating rumor. A Columbus, Ohio, march by their splinter group Hate Club 1488 grabbed so much attention that even President Biden denounced it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blood Tribe was only one of three groups that descended on Nashville, Tennessee, this year for public events. They were joined by the antisemitic Goyim Defense League, who spent two weeks harassing local residents, as well as Patriot Front, one of the largest U.S. fascist groups. All three groups represent a new, flourishing neo-Nazi movementone that will likely continue to grow during Trumps second term. Lawsuits One of the most effective strategies against the far right has been lawsuits. One popular conspiracy theory falsely claimed Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss illegally counted ballots in the 2020 election. The two women sued former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani for spreading this and won $148 million, which they spent 2024 trying to collect. A similar suit against The Gateway Pundit website was settled out of court. Giuliani, meanwhile, has loudly and repeatedly complained that he is broke and cant buy food. Conspiracy theorist Alex Joness Infowars media empire, found liable for claiming the Sandy Hook school shooting was fake, is also up for grabs after Jones was ordered to pay $1.5 billion to the victims families. In November, Infowars was put to auction, which the satirical website The Onion won (although the purchase was later nullified). VDARE, a white supremacist anti-immigration project influential on the first Trump administration, had to suspend operations after being fined for refusing to comply with a subpoena. Even with Trump in office, such lawsuits will likely continue to be potent tools against both far-right groups and conspiracy theorists. Arrests A number of members of prominent white supremacist and neo-Nazi groups were arrested in 2024. Two Terrorgram Collective members, who helped run several neo-Nazi Telegram channels, were arrested for soliciting the murder of federal officials. A Maniac Murder Cult leader was arrested for planning a mass casualty attack. And Nick Fuentes, whose Groyper movement has an impressive influence on mainstream Republicans, was charged with misdemeanor battery after pepper-spraying a woman who rang his doorbell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arrests from past high-profile incidents also continue. Over the past year, several members of the infamous 2017 tiki-torch march in Charlottesville, Virginia, were arrestedas were a number of Republican fake electors from the 2020 election. The highest-profile arrests and sentences, however, have been related to the January 6, 2021, assault on the U.S. Capitol. Around 300 new people were charged in 2024 (out of a grand total of 1,600); half of these were for assaulting or impeding law enforcement. Those sentenced include Taylor Johnatakis, who received seven years, and Proud Boy Marc Bru, who got five. Not forgetting his followers, Trump has promised to pardon some or all of these prisoners. Every day Trump makes more wild claims about what he intends to do. Regardless of what happens, these prisoners are red meat to his base, who see them as political prisoners who were arrested for trying to correct an injustice. Pardons for the leaders of violent groups, such as the Proud Boys Tarrio, will undoubtedly result in their groups revival. It will also signal Trumps approval of street violence, potentially reviving the mass street brawls with antifascists during Trumps first term, such as those seen in Portland, Oregon. As far-right grass roots remain mobilized, the next four years will likely be an environment where individuals and groups can be fully activated and function as Trumps foot soldierslegally or otherwise. WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) Donald Trump Jr. is heading to Greenland, visiting the Danish territory as his father has continued to stoke seemingly far-fetched suggestions that the U.S. could take control of it. The younger Trump is going for a day trip to shoot video content for podcasting and will not be meeting with any government officials or political figures, according to a person familiar with the plans who was not authorized to speak publicly. I am hearing that the people of Greenland are MAGA. My son, Don Jr, and various representatives, will be traveling there to visit some of the most magnificent areas and sights," President-elect Donald Trump posted on his social media site on Monday night, referring to his Make America Great Again movement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our Nation, the president-elect wrote. We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside World. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN! Danish broadcaster DR cited the head of the Department of Foreign Affairs, Mininnguaq Kleist, in reporting that Trump Jr. would be arriving Tuesday for a private visit, and there are no inquiries about a meeting with the Greenland government. Greenland's prime minister, Mute B. Egede, hasn't commented. The island is an autonomous territory that's part of the Kingdom of Denmark. Trump has had designs on Greenland before. In a statement last month as he announced his pick for U.S. ambassador to Denmark, he wrote, For purposes of National Security and Freedom throughout the World, the United States of America feels that the ownership and control of Greenland is an absolute necessity." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps eldest son has become a prominent player in his fathers political movement and has served on his presidential transition team, helping to select the people who will staff the incoming White House. But Trump Jr. has said he has no plans to join his fathers administration, instead intending to stay a key supporter of his father and his agenda from the outside. Hes especially vocal online, where he often indulges in trolling and sharing memes and hosts his own twice-a-week podcast, Triggered With Don Jr. Greenland media reported that Trump Jr. may meet with Erik Jensen, the chairman of the governing party Siumut and the islands equivalent to finance minister. But the person familiar with his plans said that Trump Jr. wouldn't meet with Jensen. Also Monday, Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of Tesla and a close advisor to the president-elect, said on X, the social media site he owns, that The People of Greenland should decide their future and I think they want to be part of America! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his first term, Trump mused about purchasing Greenland, which gained home rule from Denmark in 1979. He even canceled a scheduled trip to Denmark in August 2019 after its prime minister dismissed the idea. The world's largest island, Greenland sits between the Atlantic and Arctic oceans and is 80% covered by an ice sheet and is home to a large U.S. military base. In response to Trump's December statement, Egede said, Greenland is ours. "We are not for sale and will never be for sale, he said in a statement. We must not lose our years-long fight for freedom. Greenland has its own parliament and government headed by Egede. New elections are expected to take place no later than April 6. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aaja Chemnitz, a member of Greenlands parliament wrote in a post on Facebook that people in Greenland need to get better at saying no to the president-elect, writing that it is incredible that some can be so naive to think happiness is made by us becoming American citizens and that she doesnt want to be a piece of Trumps hot dreams of expanding his empire to include our country." "Dont let Trump control the Greenland election campaign and leave the population as losers in that game, Chemnitz wrote. ___ Price reported from New York. Associated Press writer David Keyton contributed to this report from Berlin. Four years ago today while I watched on television as Donald Trump supporters stormed the Capitol during the joint session of Congress to stop the certification of the 2020 presidential election I thought to myself, "it's finally over. Trump can't possibly come back after this." Until then I had assumed that he would immediately start his comeback. It didn't occur to me that he could survive inciting this violent assault, especially since he egged it on as it was happening: At 2:24 p.m. Trump tweets that Mike Pence didnt have the courage to do what should have been done to protect our Country and our Constitution..." pic.twitter.com/0M5VIy7lt5 USA TODAY Graphics (@usatgraphics) January 8, 2021 As we later saw on video, the crowd soon began chanting "Hang Mike Pence!" Later in the evening Trump finally emerged and put out a video telling the rioters he understood why they were so upset about all the evil people who "stole" the election but they needed to go home now. He said he loved them and that they were very special: "Go home, we love you, you're very special" President Trump repeats false claims the US election was 'fraudulent', following one person shot and an improvised explosive device found on #Capitol grounds. Follow live: https://t.co/9WUWn0WfmL pic.twitter.com/5gWVrb3tBz Sky News (@SkyNews) January 6, 2021 Over many hours we watched as bizarre Trump supporters occupied the Senate floor and took possession of the dais. The Capitol was vandalized and trashed and rioters beat police over the head with American flags. It was the most shockingly surreal event I've ever witnessed in American politics. The whole world was stunned by the live pictures we saw over the course of that momentous afternoon. On January 6, rioters coming from a pro-Trump rally broke into the U.S. Capitol, resulting in deaths, injuries, arrests and vandalism. Here's an in-depth look into how the incident unfolded. https://t.co/w5igPwlg5U pic.twitter.com/3pvim71IsO ABC News (@ABC) January 10, 2021 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet later that night, once the police and National Guard restored order and the rioters dispersed, Congress returned to the Capitol and they certified the election. For many people that signaled that the guardrails had held, that the Constitution was intact and that American democracy was preserved. But when 147 Republicans still voted to overturn the election even after all that had happened, it was clear to me that was premature and that Trump wasn't done with us yet. They were all politicians, after all, with a much better knowledge of how the system works than most Americans and they knew his insistence that he'd actually won the election was a lie. Yet they voted to steal the election anyway, despite the violent insurrection that had taken place just hours earlier. Oh sure, many Republicans did make statements condemning the insurrection and criticizing Donald Trump for his incitement. But within days you could feel them starting to pull back, especially after they experienced moments like this when Lindsey Graham was faced with rabid Trump supporters angry that he'd said "count me out." WARNING: STRONG LANGUAGE - A group of supporters of President Trump confronted Senator Lindsey Graham at Washington's Reagan National Airport. Police escorted Graham from the area pic.twitter.com/CoAWXLHoLE Reuters (@Reuters) January 9, 2021 Over the course of many months, between law enforcement and the media investigations culminating in the incredible work of the Jan. 6 committee, the evidence showed over and over again exactly what had happened. Donald Trump was psychologically incapable of admitting that he lost and certain people around him were more than willing to push the envelope to see if they could get away with overturning the results of an election. Through sheer chutzpah and mind-numbing repetition, they first managed to persuade many of Trump's most loyal voters that the election had been stolen. They flooded the zone with accusations and lies and when Republican officials denied that there were irregularities and recounts showed no discrepancies they attacked the officials. When the courts failed to find evidence of fraud and dismissed all but one case they claimed the courts were biased. They even managed to excuse Trump's trying to cajole election officials into "finding" thousands of votes to put him over the top on tape. And it worked. By Jan. of 2021, 66% of Republicans believed the election was stolen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jan. 6 was their last-ditch effort to overturn the election. Had Mike Pence agreed to pretend that there was a legitimate controversy about the election results in the swing states where they'd recruited activists to pretend to be alternate electors they might have succeeded. The whole thing was a corrupt set-up engineered by Trump henchmen. The idea was to reject those states to lower the threshold of required electoral votes allowing Trump to win. If the Democrats objected, as they certainly would, Trump planned to then try to throw the election to the House (as the Constitution provides if it was a tie) in which case Trump would also win. (The mastermind of that coup plot, John Eastman, was even later revealed to have been counting on his good friend Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas to step in to issue a stay of the Georgia electoral count to give them the hook they needed.) Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course. It was a ridiculous idea made up out of whole cloth, but Donald Trump 100% bought into it. On Jan. 6 when it became clear that Pence wasn't going to play ball, Trump decided to shoot the moon and send his crazed, overwrought followers to the Capitol to intimidate the Congress and stop the count. There could be no other reason to tell them to march down there. They didn't succeed in keeping Donald Trump in office but they won something even more important. They proved that it was possible to beguile tens of millions of voters into not only believing a Big Lie when Donald Trump told it but even when they'd seen with their own eyes that it wasn't true. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The whole country watched the riot unfold in real time. There were hours and hours more of video that emerged in subsequent days. Witnesses from Trump's own inner circle testified about his state of mind and how he behaved that day. And there have been hundreds of court cases decided by juries finding that people who participated in the event were guilty of crimes. Yet the New York Times published a depressing article over the weekend examining how Trump and his minions have managed to completely turn Jan. 6 upside down in his supporters' minds. They've convinced them that the rioters not only did nothing wrong that day, but they are now supposedly being held as political prisoners and hostages. They say there wasn't much damage to the Capitol, Mike Pence wasn't really in danger, the whole thing is overblown and it's the Jan. 6 committee that should be jailed rather than those who beat cops nearly to death on the steps of the Capitol that day. The article lays out the full trajectory of this new Big Lie that is so preposterous you'd think the people who believe it must be living in another dimension. But it's had an effect even on the population that doesn't believe the conspiracy theories that the Trump voters do. Many people understandably have come to accept that it really wasn't a threat to democracy or the Constitution since Donald Trump was elected to a second term in what everyone agrees was a fair election and therefore, the system still works, no harm no foul. But it didn't work. Trump was never held accountable either because of partisan support in the Senate which voted 57-43 to impeach him after Jan. 6, falling short of the 2/3rds supermajority which would have precluded him from running again. (Only seven Republicans voted to convict.) And the law was just too slow to hold him responsible even though both federal and state grand juries returned indictments of him and his co-conspirators for what they did. The Supreme Court eventually weighed in in his favor on clearly partisan grounds. We now know that if partisans are corrupt, deluded or just plain opportunistic enough and they have the will and the means to lie without shame or restraint, they can circumvent all the checks and balances that were built into the Constitution to prevent a president who plotted a coup against the United States from returning to power. January 6, 2025, should be a reminder of the assault on our democracy four years ago. Instead, I'm afraid it's yet another reminder that far too few people in this country actually care. NEW YORK Few politicians in America face a tougher reelection than Eric Adams New York City's mayor is battling bribery charges, a multimillion-dollar campaign hit, angry voters and the departure of scandal-scarred top aides. Still, the enigmatic mayor maintains a narrow path to reelection, and in an exclusive interview with POLITICO, Adams laid out how he intends to go on the offensive in the coming weeks: He's going to demand changes to the states controversial bail reform laws and pointedly remind voters that his most well-known possible challenger former Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed those reforms into law. In the damaged Democrats bluntest warning yet to his rivals, Adams outlined the case he plans to make to voters for giving him a second term amid a mountain of troubles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People who are running they're going to have to take claim for the stuff that they did when they were holding office. Who was there for the original bail reform? Who signed some of these procedures? Youre going to have to answer these questions, Adams said, when asked how he would run against Cuomo in particular. The ex-governor is contemplating a mayoral run as he eyes a political comeback after resigning in the face of sexual harassment charges that he denies. He would enter the race with high name recognition, a base of support and fundraising potential. He led the field in a poll of registered voters last fall. After publication, Cuomo spokesperson Rich Azzopardi responded to Adams' remarks. "This is all premature, but it's worth noting that in 2023, Mayor Adams dismissed the bail reform debate as a 'bumper sticker' slogan, and endorsed Kathy Hochul's bail reform package," Azzopardi said. "Every campaign is an assessment of a candidate's ability to manage and to match their rhetoric with their performance to improve the lives of New Yorkers and prove they can get things done." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some candidates have begun spirited campaigns like democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani and others have deep roots in high-turnout areas, like Scott Stringer, Brad Lander and Zellnor Myrie. But it is Cuomo who threatens to weaken Adams pillars of political support. Both have won substantial votes from the citys Black and Orthodox Jewish Democrats. Both appeal to moderates, including business and real estate executives who move more campaign money than votes. Adams remains in good standing with two other crucial backers: unions and the New York Post. The right-leaning tabloid whose ability to shape opinion on its news pages outweighs its editorial pull among Democrats recently detailed its support for Adams, despite concerns with his leadership. Several union officials, granted anonymity to freely discuss political strategy, spoke positively about the mayor. No one else has really stepped up and created a major threat. So as hard as his path is, everyone else is as much of a mess right now, said someone affiliated with one of the unions that endorsed Adams in 2021. Hes done a lot of really good, pro-union things, and if hes in the race it would be incredibly hard if not maybe impossible for the unions to turn their back on him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Al Sharpton, the civil rights leader and MSNBC host, said Black voters still support Adams despite polls showing an erosion of Black and Latino backing. Eric has challenges. He still has a core base in the Black community, Sharpton said, referencing the relatively warm reception the mayor received at Sharptons Harlem-based National Action Network while handing out food on Christmas. They were basically positive, but I think they feel he has a hard hill to climb. His disadvantage is these charges; his advantage is that no one has emerged, Sharpton added. But he quickly warned that a pardon from President-elect Donald Trump a favor the mayor has not ruled out accepting would prove damaging to Adams in a primary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The flirting with Trump is not helpful for him in the Black community, he said of Adams kid gloves approach to the controversial GOP politician who has said hed consider pardoning the mayor. If I was between a rock and a hard place and the only one that could deliver me is Donald Trump I would be preparing for my bye-bye. Federal prosecutors in September indicted Adams in a bribery scheme for which hes set to stand trial in April just two months before voters head to the polls. The charges and his campaigns handling of questionable donations have cost him about $4 million in taxpayer-funded campaign dollars, forcing him to continue fundraising or rely on independent expenditures to make up the difference. Despite his troubles, Adams is a talented communicator, able to outshine most rivals gearing up to challenge him in the June primary. No incumbent has lost the mayoralty since Rudy Giuliani defeated David Dinkins in 1993, and Adams is using his perch to promote popular policies, like cutting taxes for low-income families, including retail workers. Hes more conservative than most New York City Democrats who vote in off-cycle primaries, but hes the only declared candidate with a background in crime a leading concern for voters. To that end, Adams said he will push state lawmakers this legislative session for changes to laws governing bail, discovery and how to manage people with mental illness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are those in the city who have made up their mind we are going to continue to commit crimes no matter what you say. And we keep allowing them to do it, Adams said, pitching his case for tightening state laws. The judges have to get on board, our lawmakers have to get on board. Its amazing that crime has not gone even higher, based on how many repeated offenders keep coming out, over and over and over again, he added. Last year he highlighted recidivism as a reason for stubborn crime rates in the city. Adams faced resistance when pushing state lawmakers to undo some of their 2019 bail reforms, though they eventually agreed to some changes in 2023. And while Gov. Kathy Hochul is aligned with Adams on the issue, both are in politically weakened positions heading into Albanys annual legislative session this month. Adams conceded that voters concerns over crime bolstered by the recent fatal burning of a woman riding a city subway undermine his record on his signature issue. In poll after poll, New Yorkers are expressing dissatisfaction with how he and other incumbents are managing public safety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To that end, he said he would continue making clear that he believes police officers are hobbled by state laws. He disputed that voters will take into account the mushrooming chaos in the upper ranks of the NYPD, with the recent ouster of the highest ranking uniformed officer amid allegations of sexual assault and overtime manipulation. Everyday New Yorkers could care less about Maddrey, Adams said of the recently departed chief of department, Jeffrey Maddrey, whose home was raided by federal officials. All they want to know, when I call 911, is there a cop showing up. He quickly added, of course they dont want to hear about an incident within the NYPD, but said that top-tier corruption is not a leading concern. Adams is poised to announce a drop in crime Monday, bolstered by a reduction in shootings, murders and incidents on subways in 2024. Felony assaults during that period were up, police statistics show. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It will mark the beginning of his reelection, for which he told POLITICO hes following his 2021 mantra stay focused, no distractions and grind and emphasizing the parts of his record he feels go unnoticed: reduced unemployment for Black New Yorkers, expansion of broadband for public housing residents, retiring medical debt. I have to articulate to New Yorkers how these ideas that are being thrown out that no one should go to jail, Rikers should be closed, that no one should have to pay their rent, no one should pay for the subway system these are not real philosophies and theyre not real policies, he said, slightly exaggerating some of his rivals' platforms. Many people dont know how to govern a city this complex. And he had another shot for his opponents: No ones going to out-work me. Theyre going to be home in their pajamas when Im going to be on my first wind. Stringer, a longtime politician from Manhattan and the only challenger yet cleared to receive campaign matching funds, offered a different take. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im hearing from people all over the city that they want fundamental change in their governance. They are tired of a corrupt administration that failed on doing the basic policy work to run this government, he said. We have corruption at the highest levels. This is at the top echelon at the NYPD, Eric Adams NYPD. And what do we get for it? We get a rolling crime scene on the subways and on the streets. That is a function of a government that was never about doing the right thing, that was about doing the small bore things that benefited the corrupt few, he added. Whether the political case against Adams is strong enough remains to be seen. I think that anybody that counts Eric out is gambling wrong, Sharpton said. I would never count him out, but I would say he has some hills to climb. He has bigger hills than he has ever had to climb. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adams addressed those challenges, as he often does, in deeply personal terms. Mommy never surrendered, he said, displaying a bracelet embedded with a small picture of his late mother. I heard her in my ear those two weeks (following the indictment). I just heard her voice. Son, youre going to fight. CORRECTION: An earlier version of this report misspelled Zohran Mamdani's name. DES MOINES, Iowa The Des Moines Police Departments speeding cameras are now issuing citations again at their DOT-approved speeding camera locations. Here are the locations that can issue citations: 1800 blk Fleur Dr, NB & SB 300 blk E. McKinley Ave, EB & WB 2800 blk Indianola Ave, EB & WB 1700 blk Park Ave, EB & WB 1600 blk E. University Ave, EB & WB 2200 blk E. 29th St, NB & SB 4800 blk Hickman Rd, EB & WB 1000 blk SE 14th St, NB & SB 2900 blk 6th Ave, NB & SB 3100 blk MLK, Jr Pkwy, NB & SB Sergeant Paul Parizek, a Public Information Officer with the Des Moines Police Department, said that citations have increased in areas where drivers knew the cameras were off. We do a great job of awareness and letting people know, hey, this is where they are and this is what they do. This is the threshold. So when we see that in certain spots, citations increase where people knew they were off, that awareness is there. And were hoping that when they know now that theyre back on, theyll slow back down, Parizek said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Grief doesnt wait for the right time. For some residents in the Gig Harbor area, sometimes it has to. Barbara Rogers, age 80, believes the best time to visit Haven of Rest, a funeral home, crematory and cemetery along state Route 16, is very early on Sunday morning, when she feels highway traffic is lightest. Without an on-ramp from the cemetery to westbound state Route 16, drivers only have seconds to hit the gas and get up to speed as they merge off of the cemeterys short access road. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rogers voice trembles when she speaks of those she visits at the cemetery. Her daughter is buried there. Next to her, a grandson. And in the baby section of the cemetery, she has an infant grandson. Her daughter died in 2018, and 2024 was the first year Rogers missed a visit on her daughters birthday because of anxiety about the traffic, she said. Maggie Garber, left, and Barbara Rogers, center, speak with Russ Weeks on July 12, 2024. Weeks co-owns Haven of Rest, a local memorial park and funeral home off state Route 16 in the Gig Harbor area. Garber and Rogers have family members there. To visit Haven of Rest on a late Friday morning to speak with The News Tribune, Rogers accepted a ride from her friend, Maggie Garber, whom she described as intrepid. Garber is a business owner in Gig Harbor whose husband is also buried at Haven of Rest. When we feel like we cant go because of the traffic, that seems silly, but its truly an agonizing decision, Rogers said with tears in her eyes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Garber said she also has to be selective about when she comes to the cemetery. She and Rogers agreed that having to think about the timing of ones visits is an added burden to people who are grieving. Sometimes peoples grief dictates when they need to come, Rogers said. A beloved site for residents A kind of stillness hangs around Haven of Rest. In the middle of grassy fields, a fountain burbles gently in a pool. A smooth concrete path winds around the cemetery and takes visitors down a slight hill. Tall, sweeping trees shade benches where people can sit with memories of their loved ones and look out over the blue waters of Gig Harbor in the distance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a stark contrast to the trucks, cars and motorcycles roaring past the entrance. Russ Weeks co-owns the funeral home, crematory and cemetery at 8503 State Route 16 NW with his brother, Doug. Weeks said theyre not the original founders of Haven of Rest, but took it over in 2013. Its part of their family-owned business, Weeks Funeral Homes. The funeral home website says they also have locations in Tacoma, Buckley and other cities in western Washington, and that the first burial at Haven of Rest was in 1954. Russ Weeks, who co-owns Haven of Rest, a local memorial park and funeral home off state Route 16, shows where a frontage road could make it easier to access the cemetery on July 12, 2024. Weeks said that the number one concern from client families is the access road to the cemetery. Staff often get asked if theres another way out, but there isnt, he said. Some families have also chosen to go elsewhere for funeral services because they dont feel safe entering and exiting Haven of Rest along the highway, according to Weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The access also affects cemetery employees. Kyle Proctor, funeral director and embalmer at Haven of Rest, has worked there for three decades, according to the funeral website. He recalls teaching his daughter how to safely get onto state Route 16 when she worked at the cemetery. He had her practice during rush hour when she was a teenager. The Haven of Rest property spans 29.5 acres and there are about 9,000 people buried there, according to Weeks. About 16 of those acres have been developed. As more space is needed, the cemetery will develop new sections of the property. Weeks wasnt able to estimate how many visitors the cemetery gets every day, but shared a traffic impact study done in 2017 which estimated that on a typical weekday evening during peak hours (4-6 p.m.), a total of 15 vehicles either entered or left the cemetery per hour. Developing the entire 29.5 acres of the cemetery would add an additional 10 vehicles per hour to that total, the study estimated. Haven of Rest had the study done to get the citys approval for expansion. Russ Weeks, left, speaks with Barbara Rogers on July 12, 2024, at Haven of Rest, a local memorial park and funeral home off state Route 16 in the Gig Harbor area. Weeks co-owns the facility. Rogers has loved ones at the cemetery. Besides receiving visitors for their funeral services, the cemetery tends to see an influx of visitors on holidays, particularly Memorial Day, which Weeks said tends to be one of the busiest days for cemeteries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gig Harbor-area resident Jackie Olivier, 75, goes to Haven of Rest frequently to visit her husbands ashes. He died almost two years ago, the day after his 75th birthday, she told The News Tribune via phone. The two of them agreed that they both wanted to be cremated at Haven of Rest, Olivier said. She has since been struck by the beauty of the cemetery and how well taken care of it is. Its still a sad place, but I (tried) to get a place where his ashes would have some good views, she said. While the traffic situation hasnt stopped her from visiting, Olivier told The News Tribune via email that its terrifying to exit safely. Highway drivers seem to be aware of the cars trying to merge in, but she feels its just a matter of time before something dreadful will occur, she wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Renee Barnes, another resident who has lived in Gig Harbor since 1994, told The News Tribune via phone that her brother-in-law is buried at the cemetery. Her mother-in-law, who is around 70 years old, hasnt visited his grave for the last three to four years because getting in and out of the area is so stressful for her. Crash data shows few wrecks related to the entrance and exit The spot has seen a few wrecks over the years, but it isnt an obvious crash site. Proctor, the funeral director, remembers a fatal wreck on Aug. 14, 1989. That was the day an 86-year-old woman died in a crash near the entrance to Haven of Rest, he told The News Tribune. Her daughter worked as the secretary and receptionist at the funeral home. Reports of the crash in The Peninsula Gateway and The News Tribune said the woman was traveling westbound on state Route 16 in a rainstorm when she pulled her car off the right-hand shoulder into the path of oncoming traffic. She was thrown from her car when a pickup truck and another car crashed into it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She later died of internal injuries. The truck driver had minor injuries, and the third driver and his passenger werent hurt. Proctor said the woman was trying to turn into the cemetery, but misjudged where the entrance was and tried to back up, pulling into traffic when she did so. Drivers say its difficult and unsafe to merge onto SR-16 from Haven of Rest cemetery, on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025, in Gig Harbor, Wash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More recent crash data from the Washington State Department of Transportation indicates that few accidents near Haven of Rest have been serious in the last five years. Based on WSDOT data available on Aug. 13, there were 11 accidents documented between mileposts 13 and 13.1 on westbound state Route 16, which is the stretch of highway that includes the entrance to Haven of Rest, from Aug. 1, 2019 to Aug. 1, 2024. Of those 11, seven resulted in no injuries. None of the 11 accidents were marked as being related to a nearby intersection or driveway. A small business park has a similar entrance and exit off the highway less than half a mile from Haven of Rest. The stretch of highway surrounding that business area, from milepost 13.2 to 13.3, saw no officer-reported crashes from Aug. 1, 2019 to Aug. 1, 2024, according to the WSDOT data. That business area is where Mick Churchman, manager at Highway 16 Mini Storage, goes to work at 8809 State Route 16. Hes gotten used to getting on and off of the highway, but he worries about his customers. Many store their studded tires, skis or other winter gear in the storage units at the business, and come to Highway 16 Mini Storage to retrieve them after the first good snow, he told The News Tribune via email. The road to the business area a private road, not a city road, according to Gig Harbor Public Works Director Jeff Langhelm can get icy. During the snow storm a couple years ago, there were dangerous driving conditions with snow and ice getting on and off the freeway here, Churchman wrote. It is very difficult for me to reach out to our hundreds of customers and warn them about driving conditions . . . This was a nightmare for me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He worries about the weather forecast for January. Drivers say its difficult and unsafe to merge onto SR-16 from Haven of Rest cemetery, on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025, in Gig Harbor, Wash. The freeway access also seems to impact his business. Churchman wrote that some customers have called to ask about rates but lost interest once they learned where the business is located and how to get there. The business also used to rent out moving trucks via a partnership with Budget Truck Rental, and customers were very intimidated by the idea of getting behind the wheel of a large truck for the first time and then needing to immediately get onto the freeway, he wrote. Local street access to the business area could eliminate the need to enter the business area from the freeway. Hes heard people pitch this solution before, though he hasnt been directly involved in discussions with any elected representatives or decision makers. He wrote that it: does seem like there is interest in people building a back road out to town from around here. Its just that no one wants to pay for it. A promise deferred An agreement with property owners from 1958 allegedly holds the Washington State Department of Transportation responsible to build a frontage road that would eliminate the need to exit directly off the highway. In 2011-2013, a property investment group sued WSDOT in Pierce County Superior Court for their failure to fulfill that obligation, though the lawsuit was later dropped. WSDOT signed an agreement with private property owners Carl and Ruth Bartlett on Jan. 22, 1958 to take about 1.8 acres from them for the improvement of what is now state Route 16, according to a deed included in court documents. In exchange, the lawsuit alleged WSDOT promised to build a frontage road on the northeastern side of the highway to provide access to the rest of the Bartlett property. The deed did not list a date that WSDOT was required to build the frontage road. The plaintiffs in the lawsuit were members of Gig Harbor Property Investment, LLC, a group interested in building homes on land north of Haven of Rest. The home development was going to be called Harbor Winds, documents from the citys public permit portal indicate. Because a new frontage road would provide access to the proposed housing development, the investment group requested in 2007 that WSDOT build the road in keeping with the 1958 agreement. WSDOT obtained funding for the 2010-2011 biennium and started working on a design for the frontage road, spending over $400,000 on site analysis and investigation, according to a motion Gig Harbor Property Investment filed in the court case. The department then told the investment group it didnt have any current plans to build the road nor a future date for construction, Gig Harbor Property Investment alleged in the motion. WSDOT argued in its own motion to dismiss the lawsuit that it wasnt obligated to build the road until the owners were cut off from accessing the property. The deed merely serves to mitigate damages to the Bartlett remainder property should direct access onto SR 16 be eliminated in the future; access would then be perpetuated by a frontage road with access to SR 16 . . . Plaintiff does not allege a denial of access to the highway and, therefore, has failed to allege any breach of the deed, WSDOTs motion said. The lawsuit was then dropped. WSDOT spokesperson Cara Mitchell told The News Tribune via email Dec. 19 that WSDOT maintains the stance they took during the lawsuit. She also wrote that WSDOT does not have plans or a design that would identify where a frontage road would start and end. The total cost to build the frontage road in 2008 was pegged at $4.5 million to $5 million, according to Gig Harbor Property Investments legal complaint. WSDOT does not have an updated cost estimate, according to Mitchell. The News Tribune spoke to Gig Harbor Property Investment managing partner Alan Axelrod to learn more about the lawsuit and why it didnt proceed. Axelrod told The News Tribune that the groups lawyers believed pursuing the lawsuit further would be expensive and have an uncertain outcome, given WSDOTs arguments, so the group voluntarily withdrew their complaint. The group began looking into paying for the frontage road privately because it was essential to their proposed housing development, he said. He said he cant remember the exact figure for the cost to build the road, but the group ultimately decided it was above their pay grade. They werent willing to pay more than about $2 million, he guessed. Harbor Winds: the development that might have solved it all After withdrawing the lawsuit, Gig Harbor Property Investment forged ahead with their plan to build Harbor Winds: a neighborhood of 124 single-family homes north of Haven of Rest. The 39.4-acre plat would also include three lots zoned for duplexes and two lots zoned for commercial/industrial development, according to the hearing examiners report and decision on the proposal in 2012. The company considered letting go of the frontage road idea and making 93rd Street, an existing private road that connects to Burnham Drive, the main entrance to the Harbor Winds neighborhood. They abandoned that idea in part because of issues obtaining the rights to connect to that street and others to the north, and concluded that a frontage road was the only feasible way to provide access to the property, according to Axelrod and findings from the Gig Harbor Hearing Examiner. Axelrod told The News Tribune a full design for the frontage road was completed, paid for by the company and the $400,000-plus that WSDOT put toward the design. The proposed road would be called 51st Avenue Northwest and run along westbound state Route 16 in WSDOTs right-of-way. Its endpoints would be Rosedale Street Northwest and the business area north of Haven of Rest. Residents could enter the neighborhood through the business area, according to city documents. The intent of this frontage road improvement design would be to eliminate access points along SR 16, primarily at the cemetery location and the (business area) location, where this frontage road would terminate, a 2010 project proposal read, which Axelrod shared with The News Tribune. Problems quickly became apparent. The hillside where the development would go is very steep, according to Public Works Director Langhelm. It also has no existing city water or sewer access. Getting city water to the site would involve boring underneath the highway from the other side, he said. The site also contains seven wetlands and a stream in a deep ravine, according to the hearing examiners report. These features required additional planning for the development to proceed. The project review dragged on for about a decade from 2009 to 2019, the citys public permit records indicate. Axelrod said there was a point when it all fell apart. He met informally with Gig Harbor Council member Jeni Woock to discuss the proposal in early 2019, Axelrod recalled. To his surprise, she discouraged him from bringing the plan to the City Council. One of her objections: the frontage road would add to the traffic going to and from Gig Harbor High School on Rosedale Street. I was told to redesign the plat that we had been working on for the prior eight years and which had full city departmental approvals and try again, Axelrod wrote in an email. Thats what the group did, for a time. They revisited the idea of making the neighborhood accessible through the private roads north of the property, but Axelrod said they never found a way to make that work. Asked if she recalls this meeting, Woock told The News Tribune via email Nov. 13 that she doesnt remember the particulars of a conversation with Axelrod. She guesses she suggested he build the development according to the citys code, because council members cannot stop developments when they are according to code, she wrote. Axelrod eventually believed the housing project would never succeed, which meant no frontage road. If a frontage road was approved to keep going all the way to 93rd Street and connect to Burnham Drive, it could have helped divert some of the downtown traffic and alleviate congestion, Axelrod said. They missed a huge opportunity here, Axelrod said. The investment group has been in talks with Haven of Rest to sell them part of their property for the cemeterys expansion. Other than that, hes not sure what the future of the land will be. Weeks confirmed that Haven of Rest is in the process of purchasing that land. The city of Gig Harbor approved a conditional permit allowing the property to be used as a cemetery, he told The News Tribune via email Dec. 17. Axelrod still has various documents and records from the planned development, sitting in storage, and let a News Tribune reporter see some of them during an interview Oct. 4. Asked why Gig Harbor Property Investment took an interest in the property in the first place, he said the answer is simple. Its beautiful, he said. Elected representatives had plans Former state Rep. Jesse Young, who represented the 26th Legislative District, including Gig Harbor, was among those who pushed for a frontage road near Haven of Rest. Young told The News Tribune in an interview Sept. 4 that he received calls from multiple constituents concerned about the traffic situation around the cemetery. Similar to Axelrod, he believed that a frontage road connecting Burnham Drive to Rosedale Street could help alleviate some of the citys downtown traffic congestion. His goal was to gather stakeholders in the project including Haven of Rest staff, local business owners and property owners and other elected officials and push the project through. He said he was willing to work with WSDOT representatives to fulfill their alleged obligation to build the frontage road. The three solutions he came up with included: Add a lane to state Route 16, allowing drivers to both slow down while entering the cemetery, and get up to speed when leaving the cemetery to merge with highway traffic. Build a frontage road starting at Rosedale Street and ending at or near Haven of Rest. Build a frontage road that both provides entry to Haven of Rest and continues north up to Burnham Drive, thus serving as a downtown bypass to alleviate traffic in Gig Harbors downtown area. The News Tribune reached out to WSDOT and the city of Gig Harbor to ask about the feasibility of these solutions. WSDOT spokesperson Mitchell told The News Tribune via email Aug. 6 that the department responded to a legislative inquiry about the possibility of a westbound right turn lane onto the Haven of Rest property or an acceleration lane out of the property in 2021. This project would require an investment that does not prioritize for funding, she wrote. Former Gig Harbor Mayor Tracie Markley and City Administrator Katrina Knutson told The News Tribune in separate emails that its an issue for the state to address. The city has no jurisdiction over state Route 16, Markley wrote in an email Aug. 7. As much as we desire a solution there does not appear to be funding or political will in Olympia to get this accomplished at this time. The city does not have any current or future plans to construct a frontage road from Rosedale to Haven of Rest, Knutson wrote Nov. 18. As we understand, this is a state issue and one for WSDOT to analyze and see where it fits within their priorities. Langhelm, the city public works director, said that its possible the frontage road could help divert some of the downtown traffic. In order to provide a definite answer, he said he would need to look at past traffic models, which evaluate how cars move through the citys road network. The frontage road, if built, would eventually become the responsibility of the city. Young said he was hoping other elected representatives included in those early meetings with stakeholders would pick up the project after he lost his bid for a state Senate seat in 2022, but isnt aware of any progress. He recently ran for his previous state House seat in November and lost to Adison Richards. Asked if residents have mentioned issues accessing the Haven of Rest cemetery, incoming state Rep. Adison Richards told The News Tribune that hes heard more traffic concerns about the Wollochet Drive interchange with state Route 16. The cemetery issue didnt come up often on the campaign trail, but hes all about trying to identify new things to work on, he said via phone Dec. 18. The states transportation budget deficit is a challenge hell have to face. The Urbanist reported that lower-than-expected revenue from the states gas tax which Richards said is partly because of the increase in electric vehicle use and Climate Commitment Act, combined with soaring costs for highway expansion projects, are among the reasons for the deficit. Washingtons 26th Legislative District was largely left out of the 2015 Connecting Washington transportation package, which Richards said he believes set the district back at least a decade in terms of the transportation projects they need funded. I just joined the transportation committee and will have discussions with Chair (Jake) Fey and the committee to seek a creative solution here despite the budget constraints, he wrote in an email to The News Tribune. The state granted Gig Harbor $1.7 million in 2023 to add two turn lanes at the Wollochet Drive interchange with state Route 16, The News Tribune reported. The citys capital improvement projects website indicates both projects are still in the design and approval phase. Improvements to the Wollochet interchange were among the recommendations included in a WSDOT study of congestion on state Route 16 between the Tacoma Narrows Bridge and state Route 3. That study, completed in 2018, was prompted by high levels of vehicle traffic congestion at peak travel times throughout the corridor that create spillover traffic on local streets, the report said. The congestion is expected to increase as the population in the region grows. The reports list of recommendations didnt include improving highway access to the cemetery or business park. Something needs to be done. Its been about two and a half years since Barbara Rogers, who told The News Tribune about her concerns driving to the cemetery, began trying to get something done. She started by reaching out to Russ Weeks, the cemetery owner. Then she shared her concerns with former Gig Harbor Mayor Tracie Markley and the City Council, state elected officials who represent the area in Olympia, and WSDOT representatives. Some responded to Rogers messages and promised to look into the issue. Others never responded, or contacted her and then didnt follow up. She kept all her notes and printed out emails from each person she contacted and got responses from. Over time, shes let the issue drop, she said. Barbara Rogers, of Gig Harbor, holds on to a folder on July 12, 2024, filled with email correspondence and notes from the times shes tried to contact local and state officials about the entrance and exit of Haven of Rest, a local memorial park and funeral home off state Route 16 in the Gig Harbor area. Rogers friend, Maggie Garber, said she thinks the state should put flashing yellow caution signs by state Route 16, in addition to the sign that exists, and place them farther down the highway to warn drivers that the cemetery entrance is coming up. Thats a measure she thinks could be taken immediately, she said. What Rogers has emphasized again and again is that those who visit Haven of Rest arent just your average visitor. Those who come to the cemetery, whether theyre coming to make arrangements, visit loved ones or attend a service, are all in an emotional state, she said. Though there havent been many accidents near the cemetery recently, Rogers said she believes its just an accident waiting to happen, especially as the population and traffic continues to grow in the Gig Harbor area. Even if it starts with flashing signs, she hopes to see actions taken to make getting on and off state Route 16 there safer. Something immediate, not 10 years down the road, Rogers said. . . . something immediate, because it feels like something needs to be done, now. News Tribune archives contributed to this report. In January, a vibrant wave of positivity will sweep across the nation as Dry January USA introduces yellow as its official color. Led by Meharry Medical College, this new direction marks a transformative moment in how we approach alcohol consumption and wellness. Why Yellow? Yellow symbolizes optimism, creativity and renewal. Its bright, energizing nature embodies the spirit of Dry January USA - a month-long journey of reflection and healthier choices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just as the sun brightens the world, yellow seeks to inspire individuals to rethink their relationship with alcohol. Whether through the "Go Yellow" call to action or hosting alcohol-free events, yellow unites participants in a shared commitment to health and mindfulness. Starting January 7, the inaugural Dry January USA Day, iconic landmarks in Nashville, Chicago and Philadelphia will glow in yellow, symbolizing hope, resilience and community. The illumination of landmarks like Nashville's City Hall Courthouse, Nissan Stadium and the Parthenon is a powerful visual symbol of this commitment. Alcohol contributes to illness and deaths have increased over the decade Dry January USA is not an anti-alcohol campaign. Rather, it fosters a supportive, non-judgmental space for individuals to pause or reduce their alcohol intake. The free Try Dry app, helps participants to track their progress, set goals and experience mindfulness benefits. Research indicates that app users are significantly more likely to succeed in their Dry January journey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Tennessee, alcohol-related deaths have risen 98% over the past decade, with over 70,000 emergency room visits annually linked to alcohol misuse. Excessive drinking also heightens the risk of cancers, mental health challenges and domestic violence, issues disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities. News story: America's surgeon general calls for cancer warnings on alcoholic beverages Dry January USA offers a fresh start and a platform for deeper conversations about these challenges. Meharry is a proven, Nashville-based leader in health equity As the largest historically Black academic health center in the U.S., Meharry Medical College leads with a mission to advance health equity. Dry January USA aligns with this vision, addressing the disproportionate impact of alcohol harm on underserved communities, including veterans, LGBTQ individuals and those in the music and hospitality industries. Michael Caldwell By championing Dry January USA, Meharry amplifies our many voices. Through initiatives like the "Go Yellow" campaign, Meharry is transforming how we approach alcohol education and mindfulness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dry January USA Day on Jan. 7 invites everyone to reflect on their relationship with alcohol, even if just for 24 hours. Its an invitation to wear yellow, light up spaces and to share stories using #GoYellow on social media. Here's how every-day citizens can get involved in Dry January Join us now to light up January and inspire lasting change for a brighter, healthier year ahead. Portrait of Jonathan Low, a third-year medical student at Meharry Medical College and entrepreneur Download the Try Dry app, wear yellow and spread the message. Visit https://dryjanuaryusa.org/give-online/ to learn more and how you can participate, support our efforts and make a difference. Resources for restaurants and bars are available here, https://dryjanuaryusa.org/guide-for-restaurants-and-bars/ . As we embrace yellow this January, join us in honoring the spirit of togetherness, the strength of determination and the gift of health. Let us light up the world in positivity and take the first step toward lasting change. Dry January USA invites you to reflect, reconnect and Go Yellow. Deranique Jones Michael C Caldwell, M.D., MPH, is chief medical officer of Dry January USA and associate VP of research & innovation at Meharry Medical College. Jonathan Low, MBA, is a third-year medical student, at Meharry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deranique Jones is a second-year medical student at Meharry. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Dry January invites us mind our health and change our habits | Opinion Former Gov. Buddy MacKay, who died in his sleep on New Years Eve at the age of 91, had a more profound influence on Florida than many of the people who were actually elected to the office. Among his profound achievements: Persuading former Sen. Lawton Chiles, with whom he had served in Congress, to come out of retirement and run for governor in 1990. In turn, Chiles chose him to be his lieutenant governor, and they were the last Democratic ticket to prevail in Florida when they were re-elected in 1994. Chiles sudden death from a heart attack on Dec. 13, 1998 with 23 days left in their term made MacKay governor in the way he never wanted. He had lost his own race the month before to Republican Jeb Bush, polling not quite 45% of the vote. Florida had changed hugely since MacKay, an Ocala lawyer and orange grower, was first elected to the state House of Representatives in 1968, when there were only 6.4 million people living in Florida. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Democratic Party still firmly controlled the Legislature and every statewide office but that of the governor, which they would soon win back. For a young, progressive Democrat like MacKay, accomplishment depended on navigating some wide chasms between the liberal and backward factions of his party. Yet during six years in the state House and six in the Senate, he still managed to push for better environmental protections and tougher growth-management laws. He advocated for consumer protection for the states utility customers, helping to create the office of public counsel. He fought hard against racial and gender injustice. MacKays priorities reflected his concern for Floridians he felt needed defending, said former state Rep. Dick Batchelor, who served in the state House when MacKay was in the Senate: He was an incredibly honorable person, a real delight, Batchelor said this week. MacKay ran successfully for Congress in 1982, where he made a name as a budget and spending reformer and helped to deauthorize the Cross-Florida Barge Canal. When he left the House in 1988 to run for Chiles U.S. Senate vacancy, politics had changed in unfavorable ways. Republican Connie Mack defeated him in the general election by a narrow margin. Name-calling Macks Hey Buddy, youre a liberal was clearly intended as an insult was gaining ground, along with big independent money that dwarfed the legal limits on contributions to federal campaigns. The combination might have doomed his campaign. But hed soon be back as Chiles running mate and lieutenant governor; they won a 56% victory over Republican Gov. Bob Martinez in 1990 and more narrowly defeated Bush, in his first race four years later. Their eight-year span marked a partnership that saw MacKay acting as one of the most high-profile lieutenant governors in the states history. They first took office in the teeth of a nationwide recession that depressed Floridas sales tax receipts and forced severe and unpopular budget cuts. Nonetheless, they maintained an effective partnership. MacKay was deeply involved in policy making and trouble-shooting for Chiles, notably after Hurricane Andrew in 1992. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another storm of a different sort found the Republicans taking control of both houses of the Legislature for the first time, but not before the administration put through a new law that allowed the state to sue the tobacco industry and eventually win a $13 billion settlement for the cost of treating Medicaid patients. MacKays droll speaking style failed to impress some voters but was a huge hit with his colleagues and the media because of his dry, self-deprecating sense of humor. I got out of politics because of illness, he said after losing to Bush. The voters got sick and tired of me. And he was never partisan except on the campaign trail. He was a good and faithful servant to the people of Florida and the nation. There are more than three times as many Floridians now as when he entered politics in 1968, and it is sad to realize that many of them will never see such a statesman again. The Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board includes Executive Editor Roger Simmons, Opinion Editor Krys Fluker and Viewpoints Editor Jay Reddick. The Sun Sentinel Editorial Board consists of Executive Editor Gretchen Day-Bryant, Editorial Page Editor Steve Bousquet, Deputy Editorial Page Editor Dan Sweeney and editorial writers Pat Beall and Martin Dyckman. Send letters to insight@orlandosentinel.com. Snow falls at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on Friday, Dec. 13, 2024. (Photo by Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch) Though the 2025 Utah Legislature will be tackling a wide range of issues when their general session begins Jan. 21 including housing, homelessness and energy at least three other weighty issues will likely dominate much of the debate. Ahead of the session, Utah News Dispatch interviewed Gov. Spencer Cox and the two legislative leaders at the helm of the GOP-controlled Utah Legislature House Speaker Mike Schultz and Senate President Stuart Adams. They said lawmakers are likely to debate three big headlining issues: election reform, higher education and immigration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres what to expect to come of those issues when lawmakers convene for their 45-day session: Election reform : Lawmakers are expected to discuss changes and possible limitations to voting by mail, but not unravel it completely. Theyll also likely debate potentially removing election oversight from the lieutenant governors duties. Higher education: University leaders are under pressure to review their programs for inefficiencies, cut or downsize low-performing programs, and better realign with the workforce. Democrats worry this will open the door to cutting liberal arts. Immigration: Lawmakers will likely discuss policies and resources to help President-elect Donald Trump deport undocumented immigrants in the state with a focus on those committing crimes, though details are so far scant. The governor also said he supports expanding Utahs requirements for businesses to use E-Verify for hiring employees. Lawmakers to weigh changes to vote by mail, removing election oversight from LG Following a divisive presidential election that stoked more distrust in elections in Utah than ever before, the Utah Legislature is expected to discuss a variety of proposals meant to improve trust even if issues are far and few between. While a recent legislative audit found no significant fraud in Utahs election system (which currently sends by-mail ballots to all of the states active registered voters) it also found some errors, including 1,400 likely deceased voters that hadnt been removed from voter rolls. Of those, 700 were marked as active voters, and in 2023 two ballots were cast in the names of voters classified as deceased. Out of 2 million registered voters, thats a small number. But its still too many for House Speaker Mike Schultz, R-Hooper, who raised questions about the security of Utahs vote-by-mail system, which heavily relies on signature verification, after the audit was released. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Schultz said in general Utah has really good elections, crediting most county clerks with running really tight ships, he said that doesnt mean lawmakers shouldnt look for ways to improve. I dont care what anybody says, the voter rolls in the state of Utah are a mess, and they need to be cleaned up, Schultz said. Certain counties do a much better job than other counties. But this is the second audit in a row that shows (problems) with voter rolls. So its a little frustrating to see these areas not be addressed. Schultz added that Utah lawmakers are never going to be able to create a system thats flawless. But he said every election he and other lawmakers get a ton of messages, emails or text messages or phone calls saying, Hey, I got ballots that I shouldnt have gotten in the mail. My daughter, a couple of years ago, got two ballots, one from Davis County and one from Weber County, the speaker said. House Speaker Mike Schultz, R-Hooper, and House Majority Whip Karianne Lisonbee, R-Syracuse, talk to media at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on Friday, Jan. 26, 2024. (Photo by Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch) Though its not yet crystal clear what lawmakers will do, its sounding unlikely that theres appetite from the states top leaders to completely do away with voting by mail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Spencer Cox recently defended voting by mail, but expressed willingness to implement earlier postmarking deadlines to help speed up election night ballot counting. Currently, Utah law requires by-mail ballots to be postmarked no later than the day before Election Day. Moving up that deadline would require more Utahns to either mail their ballot earlier, drop off their ballots in drop boxes, or vote in person. The idea is to make voting as easy as possible for the people who should vote, and difficult as possible for the people who shouldnt, the governor said, though he added, I still believe in vote by mail, noting that since its been implemented Utahs voter turnout has increased significantly. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Maintaining voting accessibility and convenience is also important to Democratic leaders. House Minority Leader Angela Romero, D-Salt Lake City, and Senate Minority Leader Luz Escamilla said they would not be supportive of getting rid of voting by mail or limiting it significantly and theyre concerned the debate could open the door for that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To me, its 100% an implementation issue, Escamilla said of the errors audits found. The problem is not vote by mail. Its whos implementing vote by mail and (if) there are a lack of consequences. Romero said shes also worried that by responding to election doubters, the Legislature is operating under a fear paradigm. Were letting this small group of loud people because I dont think the everyday Utahn agrees with them dominate legislation, Romero said. She added that President-elect Donald Trump did win, and letting the unfounded rhetoric he and his supporters used shape legislation will likely disenfranchise not just Democrats, but Republicans too. Were going to suffer the consequences, from my perspective, Romero said, to use his victory as the flag to say, We need to do all of this to take away rights from people is very alarming to me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schultz said because voting by mail is so popular among Utahns maybe theres a way to kind of find a balance between in-person voting and the current vote-by-mail system. Lets have this conversation, see where it goes, the speaker said. Schultz said hes also not a fan of relying on signature verification to count by-mail ballots, and hes interested in exploring possibly letting by-mail ballots be sent to voters as they are currently, but requiring them to be returned in-person with a form of identification. One of the ideas thats being talked about is, yeah, go ahead and still get your ballot by mail, but then you have to take your ballot (back), he said. If you take it to a drop box, I think you need to show ID. Then that way you dont have the signature problem. I dont think its that big of an ask to ask people to show their ID to drop their ballot off. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That would entail a dramatic shift from what county clerks currently do to verify and count ballots but Schultz said he believes it would be simpler than the effort it takes to verify signatures, and counties could rededicate their staff to create drop boxes with poll workers. Adams said he also has misgivings about using signatures to verify ballots. I believe there probably needs to be a better way, a more quantifiable way, to be able to verify the ballots, the Senate president said. You can take away some of the vague decision-making that were asking the clerks to do. Because I dont want to vilify the clerks. I believe most of our clerks in the state of Utah are really good people, and at times we put them in a discretionary decision-making process. When pressed about Schultzs preferences, Adams said its possible Utahs election system could be changed to have a combination of allowing some voters to mail their ballots in while others may need to drop off their ballots in person. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those that have drivers licenses, and you can verify in a quantifiable manner, maybe they mail them back in. Those that cant, have to drop box them, Adams said. This is going to be a work in progress. We dont have the answers right now, but its going to be one of the big discussions of the session. Senate President Stuart Adams, R-Layton, and other members of Senate leadership hold a press conference at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on the last night of the legislative session, Friday, March 1, 2024. (Photo by Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch) While Cox said hes also supportive of cleaning up the voter rolls, he also noted recent election audits have shown there is very minuscule fraud, if any. Still, he said hes also supportive of looking for ways to do better and prevent the potential for fraud. I feel very confident in the way our elections are being administered right now, Cox said. But I know that there are lots of people that dont, and so we need to figure out ways to help them feel better about our elections. Another weighty election reform topic lawmakers are also expected to consider is whether the lieutenant governor should continue to oversee the states election system or if that duty should be assigned to another state official. Last year, Rep. Ryan Wilcox, R-Ogden, introduced a bill that would have stripped the lieutenant governor of those oversight responsibilities and created a separate elections office with a director appointed by a committee that consists of the governor, lieutenant governor, Senate president, House speaker, auditor, treasurer and attorney general. However, that bill, HB490, didnt progress during the 2024 session, with Wilcox saying at the time he tabled it for more discussion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schultz said hes supportive of removing that responsibility from the lieutenant governor but he said he doesnt yet know what 2025 legislation will entail. I dont think anybody should be overseeing their own election, Schultz said. That was a complaint repeatedly made by GOP political opponents of Gov. Spencer Cox and Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson throughout the election cycle though Henderson designated Greg Bell as an independent adviser and she said she sequestered herself from any complaints that arose about the governors race. Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson signs off on the statewide canvass of Utahs 2024 primary election results at the Utah Capitol on July 22, 2024. (Courtesy of the Utah Lieutenant Governors Office) When pressed on this, Schultz said Bell hardly issued any statements during the election cycle when compared to Henderson, and he believes election oversight is an optics issue lawmakers should address. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked if Henderson should be worried about keeping her job, Schultz said theres plenty of things for the lieutenant governor to do. This has nothing to do with the current lieutenant governor, Schultz said. This just has to do with what we think gives the public the most confidence in their elections. Thats where our focus ought to be. We want to give the public the most confidence as much confidence as possible in elections. Adams, however, said hes not supportive of making a commission to appoint an elections director, which Wilcoxs 2024 bill would have done. I think when you make a committee assignment it just creates confusion. He also questioned that if the governor, or Senate president or Speaker weighs in on an election appointment, would that create a conflict? The Senate president said he doesnt yet know what hed support, but hes open to hearing ideas. Whatever system we come up with, it has to be better, Adams said. I share the speakers concern. but weve got to make sure the solution is better. Cox took a similar stance as Adams. He said discussions with lawmakers are ongoing, and he and Henderson will be working closely with them on any proposals, but if lawmakers do make changes he said hell only support them if they make Utahs election system better, not worse. If theres a better way to do it, we will support that better way. And if theres not, then lets keep it and just improve what we have already, Cox said. Escamilla and Romero said theyre open to hearing ideas about changing the lieutenant governors election duties, but theyd need to see the details before deciding whether to support or oppose it. Romero added, though, that she believes Henderson and her election staff have done the best they can, especially given how much Utahs election system has evolved in recent years. She added that the audits found minor hiccups, not sweeping problems. So I feel like my colleagues are making an issue out of something that isnt there, that can be fixed if we just hold our counterparts a little more accountable and make sure theyre following whats expected of them, Romero said. House Minority Leader Angela Romero, D-Salt Lake City, is pictured on the first day of the legislative session at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024. (Photo by Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch) Higher ed cuts and re-alignment looms House Speaker Mike Schultz said higher education reform is his biggest priority specifically consolidating programs. Hes floated a 10% cut or reallocation to encourage universities to find inefficiencies, though it remains to be seen where those budget discussions land. Look, higher ed plays an extremely important role here in the state of Utah and in our economy, and thats why I think its so important that we get this right, he said, adding that currently the system is not headed on a sustainable path because youve got businesses walking away from higher ed and looking to do something different because theyre not getting what theyre needing out of it. A recent legislative audit warned Utahs public education system is bound to lose students to private or nontraditional schools unless it caters more to jobs that the workforce demands and prioritizes programs that attract more students. Thats teed up a debate thats leaving educators nervous. Last month, University of Utah leaders warned faculty theyre in for a hard year on Capitol Hill, according to The Salt Lake Tribune. Were under extensive scrutiny right now by lawmakers, both locally and nationally, around the return that education is providing, University of Utah President Taylor Randall said, the outlet reported. Schultz said he wants universities to cut or consolidate low-performing programs, or programs that only graduate a handful of students each year. He wouldnt name what programs he thinks need to be cut, saying he wanted universities to undergo a review to determine that. However, the House speaker said hes got a long list of programs he thinks should be serving more students. He named engineering and nursing specifically programs he said that are in high demand but face wait lists. If we just do a 10% cut across the board, thats terrible. Thats a terrible idea, Schultz said. Well get it wrong because that will actually drive up tuition. But if we come in, use a scalpel and were strategic about it and say, OK, lets collapse these programs, keep them here and expand them here, so that everybody still has that opportunity, then take the savings from those programs and reinvest into other areas that are needed, that will help stop tuition from rising. Let us know what you think... That may mean some professors could lose their jobs, Schultz told Utah News Dispatch. Thats a possibility, he said, though he added, Were talking about a two- or three-year phase-in to help be careful with some of those things. The House speaker acknowledged thats likely nerve wracking for educators to hear, but he said the goal is to improve the system for all Utahns. Were going to come back and do whats best for Utah, he said. Maybe not whats best for that certain professor, but its going to be whats best for the citizens of Utah. Cox is also supportive of reforming higher education, but hes taking an optimistic outlook on the debate. From my conversations today, I think it could be a good year for higher ed I really do if were able to land this in the right spot and if people really come together, Cox said. Im still hopeful and optimistic. I know its going to be a little bumpy as we work through this, but thats OK. Thats the nature of the process. Cox said Utahs higher education is incredible, praising Utahs university presidents for fostering a system that not only educates Utahs youth but also supports the economy. However, he said its also time to consider some changes. One thing that happens, though, in every institution, especially government institutions, is were really good at creating new programs and new rules we create stuff really quickly, and were terrible at getting rid of stuff that isnt working anymore or times have changed and things are different, the governor said. That hasnt been happening as much as it could have with our institutions of higher learning. Cox said he has been meeting with university leaders to discuss reviewing their programs and finding classes or programs that arent meeting needs of students and employers in this state, and then reallocate resources toward programs that are in demand. This is something that I think should have been happening anyway, and I think the discussions are going very well, he said. Adams also said he doesnt see the debate around higher education this year as a negative. I see it as a big positive, because we have these high-demand jobs that we cant (fill). Everywhere I go, I talk to employers. Whats the No. 1 concern? I need people. I need trained people, Adams said, adding Hill Air Force Base hires more engineers than we produce in every one of our universities every year. The governor also acknowledged theres been some angst with higher ed around the country, though he wanted to separate the effort in Utah from the fallout after presidents of the countrys most prestigious universities Harvard, Penn State and MIT testified in congressional hearings about addressing antisemitism amid protests of the war between Israel and Hamas. But Romero said she worries the discussion will put Utahs higher education professors in a compromising position. This isnt anything new. This is a national movement, Romero said, pointing to the conservative push in Florida to reshape the states higher education system by rooting out what they perceive as liberal bias, setting limits on tenure and restricting academic freedom. She also pointed to layoffs and upheaval at Texas universities after lawmakers cracked down on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives as Republicans there have become increasingly critical of wokeness within higher education. Though Schultz and Cox said they see this years discussion of Utahs higher education system as separate from the anti-DEI legislation passed last year, Romero said she worries the debate around cutting low-performing programs will leave liberal arts programs vulnerable, and some lawmakers may use it as an opportunity to cut certain classes or programs they may not agree with. Our universities have always been a place where people can think critically and figure out and identify who they are, Romero said, adding she doesnt want lawmakers to reduce students abilities to explore their interests. Im really concerned that were not looking at the bigger picture, Romero added. We shouldnt take away things from individuals, especially adults. We want to choose what we want to do and how we want to have our university experience. Not everyone has the same experience. Escamilla said she wants the curriculum to be set by academic experts, not by legislators. I hope that we do data-driven policy on this type of issue, because our entire future and economy depends on this, Escamilla said. Though she acknowledged the audit showed some gaps we need to address, she said that doesnt necessarily mean eliminating important pieces of curriculum or degrees that have to do with history. Democrats, she said, will be watching to make sure the debate is focused on efficiencies and workforce needs and doesnt dovetail into a culture war. We are concerned about some of the movement toward eliminating these critical conversations, Escamilla said, expressing concern that it will turn into a continuation of the anti-DEI stuff. Gov. Spencer Cox speaks with reporters during a news conference in Salt Lake City, Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024. (Pool photo by Chris Samuels/The Salt Lake Tribune) How will lawmakers assist Gov. Coxs plan to assist Trump deportations? Soon after winning a second term as Utahs governor, Cox announced Utah will be gearing up to assist the incoming Trump administrations plan to ramp up deportations. In late November, Cox outlined a set of priorities to identify, incarcerate and deport undocumented migrants in Utah who have committed crimes. Details are still scant on exactly how Cox and other state leaders plan to do this, but among the priorities the governors office listed in a news release was an intent to work with the 2025 Utah Legislature on a variety of policy enhancements associated with criminal behavior by illegal immigrants. Youll definitely see changes around immigration, Cox said, adding its on everybodys minds as weve seen literally millions of people cross the border illegally over the past four years. Meanwhile, a group of seven GOP Utah House representatives, one Utah senator, and Commissioner of Public Safety Jess Anderson have announced a news conference for today to unveil legislation aimed to improve public safety and address the impacts of the Southern border crisis. Cox expressed frustration with President Joe Bidens administration, saying U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials have not been helpful when it comes to being able to transport and house those illegal immigrants who have committed crimes in our state. This has been an ongoing frustration for us with the current administration for some time, and so were hopeful with the new (Trump) administration well be able to work through that, Cox said. When asked for details on what legislators will be working on, the governor said, Were just starting to have those discussions, so stay tuned. However, he did say that his administration will be working with the Legislature on those policies to make sure we have the resources necessary for housing and transport of criminals. In his most recent monthly news conference, he reiterated that deportations would start with a focus on those who have broken the law while living in Utah regardless of whether its a violent crime or not. If you commit crimes, I dont care if theyre violent or nonviolent, yes. You should not be here, Cox said. You shouldnt have been here in the first place. But lawmakers are likely to discuss legislation also dealing with hiring undocumented employees. When pressed for specific immigration policy enhancements expected during the 2025 session, Cox told Utah News Dispatch lawmakers may revisit the states requirements for which businesses must use E-Verify, a system that allows employers to confirm the eligibility of employees to work in the U.S. Up until two years ago, Utah required private employers with 15 or more employees to be registered with and use E-Verify or another status verification system when hiring. Then in 2022, the Utah Legislature passed a bill, HB252, to relax those requirements to only businesses with 150 or more employees. Cox said he expects lawmakers to revisit that law again and discuss tightening up Utahs E-Verify requirements. I think there will be a push to lower that threshold again, which wed be very supportive of. I have no problem with that, Cox said. Even though he signed the bill in 2022, he said, I wasnt the one supporting the bill to roll them back in the first place, and Id gladly put those back. Adams said hes supportive of the governors plans for deporting those who have committed crimes. But he also expressed a desire to help working immigrants stay. He pointed to a law the Utah Legislature passed in 2011 that he said helped balance those who have jobs stay, and those that didnt have jobs would go home. That system has handled it fairly well, Adams said, though he said there are probably some additional changes that need to be handled. He didnt offer specifics on what those changes may be. Criminals that have come across the border that have felony records that have committed crimes need to be sent home. Theres just no question about it, Adams said. But people that are here that are working and productive, we need workers. And we need to find a way to allow them to continue working. Adams called on the Trump administration to not just focus on deportations, but also fix the immigration system something people from both parties have been urging for years, but little progress has been made. If the Trump administration wants to kick the doors off of anything, they ought to take leadership on fixing the immigration policy. Open the doors wider, he said. Let more people lots of people come through a regulated, legal process. Just by supply and demand, if you can come through legally, theres going to be less efforts to come through illegally. Schultz said given the Biden administrations handling of the border over the past four years, I think its fair to say when you open up the borders and allow as many people to come across illegally I dont think you can have the same immigration policies that the state of Utah has had in the past. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US But what does that look like? I dont know. But, you know, clearly, we need to look at it and see where we go. It will be a topic of conversation, Schultz said, though he added he didnt want to get into specifics because discussions with other lawmakers are still developing. Escamilla and Romero both Latina women are concerned about how the discussion around immigration is being framed, and they worry about how exactly these plans will be executed. While Cox says the focus will be on criminals, Romero said the rhetoric lumps all undocumented immigrants in as criminals, as well as puts legal immigrants and their families at risk of political hate. When they amp up this rhetoric about, you know, rounding people up and deporting them, they also put people like me and other individuals at risk because that hate trickles down, and you see how people dehumanize individuals regardless of their status, and thats a big concern for me. Romero added that everyone wants to hold criminals accountable, but its how we define criminal. She questioned if that means every documented immigrant who gets a speeding ticket, or those who are simply residing in the state illegally. Id love for the governor to walk in my shoes for one day, to see how it is to live in the state of Utah as a person thats part of the Hispanic community, Romero said. Take a step in my shoes, Sen. Escamillas shoes, or the mixed-status families that live in our districts for years and see the hate thats being hurled at them because of the election of Donald Trump. Romero also agreed the nations immigration issues need to be fixed but she said thats a federal issue, not a state issue. Do we have to do something about the border? Yes. Do we have to find a system that works? Yes. But thats up to Congress. Not the Utah Legislature, she said. Escamilla said shes concerned when Cox said he plans to work with the Trump administration, which she said has signaled an appetite not to just focus on criminals, but all undocumented immigrants. She also said under current policies undocumented criminals who commit crimes should already be detained and processed. Whos going to disagree with that? No one. Ive never met someone who said, Nope, those people should not be processed and taken care of, Escamilla said. Well, they already do. The law already says you process them. So Escamilla said its unclear exactly what Cox and Utah lawmakers will do, but Democrats will be arguing for Utah not to take a heavy-handed approach by sweeping up people who havent committed crimes but are out of status or maybe waiting for their paperwork. We are concerned how it will impact families, especially mixed-status families, Escamilla said. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Congressional Democrats on Monday are expected to offer President-elect Donald Trump the unremarkable, perhaps even dull transfer of power he and a band of pro-Trump rioters denied President Joe Biden exactly four years ago. It is January 6 again and that means federal lawmakers will count the Electoral College votes, in accordance with the 12th Amendment, and formally announce Trump as the next president. He will be sworn-in at his inauguration on January 20. Four years ago, Trump whipped up a crowd near the White House, declaring, We will never concede the election, before warning the aggrieved throng, If you dont fight like hell, youre not going to have a country anymore. Shortly afterward, a mob pushed through barricades and eventually forced its way into the US Capitol, assaulting law enforcement officials, threatening lawmakers and trashing the building all as Trump sat by, watching media coverage, tweeting against Vice President Mike Pence for refusing to block the certification and, eventually, issuing a few social media posts asking the rioters to stay peaceful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is no such drama on tap this time around. Democrats are not planning any protests not among House members and senators during the count, nor on the grounds adjacent to the Congress or White House. Vice President Kamala Harris, who like Trump in 2020 lost this years election, is expected to be present, but only to preside in her role as president of the Senate over a joint session where lawmakers will confirm Trumps victory. The process they will follow is largely the same as the one that guided past quadrennial gatherings, though a new law called the Electoral Count Reform Act, passed in the aftermath of the 2021 insurrection, will make it more difficult for dissident lawmakers to raise objections to any states electoral votes. How will the count work? This year, the confirmation of Trumps win will play out as follows: The House of Representatives and Senate will meet, per federal law, at 1 p.m. ET for the counting of the electoral votes. This follows a process from December 17, when electors met in their respective states and cast votes for president and vice president. There were no faithless electors, or electors who cast ballots against the will of the voters, so Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance each received 312 votes. Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz each received 226 votes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Going in alphabetical order, Harris in her role as president of the Senate will open each states certificate of electoral votes and hand them to one of the four tellers a pair of them coming from both the House and Senate. The teller will then read, record, and tally the certificates of electoral votes from each state and the District of Columbia. This is the point in the process when members can challenge a states electoral votes. But for the objection to be heard, it must be submitted in writing and signed by at least one-fifth of the House and one-fifth of the Senate. Thats a higher bar than in past years, when only one member of the House and one Senator could pause the proceedings. The grounds for lodging an objection are also stricter now, because of the 2022 Electoral Count Reform Act. That legislation also explicitly limited the role of the President of the Senate Pences title in 2021 to whats described now as solely ministerial. In plain English, that means Harris, now in the same position, has no power to accept, reject or in way, shape or form influence the process or its outcome. Pence ultimately refused Trumps demands to upend the count. In a Fox News interview on August 2, 2023, the former vice president insisted that Trump and a gaggle of crackpot lawyers urged him to intervene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Trump demanded that I use my authority as vice president presiding over the count of the Electoral College to essentially overturn the election by returning or literally rejecting votes, Pence sad. I had no authority to do that. Thats as true today as it was four years ago, but the letter of the law leaves less room for imaginative attorneys to make a case for meddling. Harris is now poised to certify her own loss in the presidential election days after swearing in, on January 3, some of the same senators who agitated to block her ascent in 2021. When the final tallies are in, Harris will announce the certified count. According to the law, that declaration will be considered final or, in legal terms, shall be deemed a sufficient declaration of the persons elected president and vice president. Can there be objections? The combination of a stricter legal structure and Trumps victory last year has likely returned boredom to the process. No objections are expected. Should that change, and a protest is properly submitted, the joint session would again be suspended, with the House and Senate leaving to debate, in separate spaces, for a maximum of two hours. They would then commence voting on whether to accept or reject the objection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the debate, speaking time is limited to five minutes per House member or senator. Members can only address the chamber once before the votes begin. For an electoral vote to be thrown out, both the House and Senate must agree to sustain the objection. Again, this is considered highly unlikely. The objection must then be disposed of before the next states electoral votes can be acted upon. A House-Senate split would also mean the objection has failed and the counting must resume as scheduled. In 2017, after Trumps first victory over Hillary Clinton, then-Vice President Joe Biden presided over the joint session of Congress as the president of the Senate. A group of House Democrats objected to several states electoral votes, citing issues with voter suppression and Russias election interference, but no senators signed on to formalize the objections. Biden dismissed the objections and continued with the counting of the electoral votes to finalize Trumps victory. What happened last time? In 2021, Republicans objected to the results from several states, and had enough support to force Congress to debate them for two Arizona and Pennsylvania. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both efforts failed. But after the House and Senate separated to consider the first one, from Arizona Rep. Paul Gosar and Texas Sen. Ted Cruz (along with others), the Capitol was overrun. The chambers did not reconvene until later in the evening, after the rioters were flushed from the building, when both full bodies voted down the objection. The shenanigans were not over, though, as Pennsylvania Rep. Scott Perry and Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley lodged another objection, this time to the results from Pennsylvania. That too was voted down by overwhelming majorities of both chambers. The two challenges in 2021 matched the grand total from every election since 1887, after the first version of the Electoral Count Act was originally enacted. The law, an afterthought in American politics for decades, was reinforced to protect against frivolous protests by Congress in 2022. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com HENRIETTA, N.Y. (WROC) Plans are finally moving forward to upgrade the electrical capacity of the power grid serving the Town of Henrietta. A $4.7 million grant will go towards the upgrades to electrical infrastructure for residential and economic development projects, according to Empire State Development. As we continue to meet the growing demands of the electrical grid, this funding, paired with our investments, allows the Company to continue making upgrades to aging infrastructure to increase capacity for future development and our customers, said Avangrid CEO Pedro Azagra. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The upgrades are meant to attract and retain commercial and industrial development. ESD says some of the business includes a solar panel manufacturer, R&D for beverage production, advanced manufacturing, and a semiconductor supply chain company. Furthermore, the work is expected to facilitate residential development. ESD says there are almost 1,000 affordable, senior, and family housing opportunities in Henrietta. With roughly 600 acres of industrial and commercial development land available, the town of Henrietta is poised to take advantage of Monroe Countys federal designation as a Regional Tech Hub, said Monroe County Executive Adam Bello. Improving the towns electrical capacity is a significant step forward in our commitment to meeting its growing energy needs and will ensure a more reliable and efficient power supply for future growth and sustainability. News 8 has been reporting on this issue for a year now, and as recently as November 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Limitations in the electric grid have held up the Wiregrass development project, resulting in tenants pulling out and putting 1,000 new housing units and 250 jobs potentially on hold, Henrietta Supervisor Steve Schultz previously told our Dan Gross. The developer of the project, LFS John Street, has also sued RG&E for damages. RG&E estimated the cost of a new, custom transformer would run about $17 million. New York State Senator Jeremy Cooney, who will be in attendance at Mondays announcement, was working with the town and utility to secure state funding. Full News Conference You can watch the full press conference in the video player above. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Following in the footsteps of his Canada- and Greenland-coveting pal Donald Trump, MAGA billionaire Elon Musk is asking whether the United States should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government." The Tesla CEO posed the question in an early Monday morning tweet, the latest in a multi-day social media bender aimed at the U.K. that has seen him advocate for a jailed right-wing activist, call for the head of a right-wing party leader, and demand that a junior minister of the new Labour government be thrown in prison. America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 6, 2025 Musk has, in recent days, lambasted the British government over its handling of investigations into organized gangs that allegedly oversaw the systematic rape of young women. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Labour government rejected a request for a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham in October, saying it is focused instead on enacting the recommendations of the final 2022 report of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse, none of which were implemented by the previous Conservative government. Musk has also called for the jailing of Jess Phillips, the junior minister in Prime Minister Keir Starmers cabinet responsible for the violence against women file, calling her a rape genocide apologist. Those comments earned a stern rebuke from Starmer on Monday, who implied Musk is taking advantage of the utterly sickening issue of child exploitation to draw attention to himself. Asked about Musks remarks on Monday, the PM replied: Those who are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible are not interested in victims, theyre interested in themselves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his recent posts, Musk has repeatedly offered his support to Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, a Islamophobic fascist activist who uses the pseudonym Tommy Robinson. Robinsonwho has been convicted of mortgage fraud and assault, was a member of the fascist British National Party, and is alleged to have stalked a female journalist at her homeis currently serving an 18 month prison sentence for repeating false allegations against a Syrian refugee. Musk has called for his release. Nigel Farage, the MAGA-loving leader of Britains right-wing Reform Party, has taken care to distance himself from Robinson. On Sunday, Musk called for Farages removal as Reform leader after he said he disagreed with the Tesla CEOs support for Robinson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And not to be outdone, another right-wing Brit threw his hat in the ring on Sunday: Andrew Tate, the misogynist influencer facing rape and human trafficking investigations in Romania, asked in an ultra serious post whether he should run for prime minister to unseat Starmer. Andrew Tate announces he wants to 'run' for British PM... And misspells Britain Good morning everyone! pic.twitter.com/YaWWlwpH64 Marina Purkiss (@MarinaPurkiss) January 6, 2025 Musks poll on X asking whether America should liberate Britain had received 64 percent support from 500,000 votes as of the time of publication. The tech billionaire and ardent Trump supporter has also dipped into German politics in recent weeks, offering his endorsement to the far-right Alternative fur Deutschland party over the holidays. On Monday, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre told public broadcaster NKR he finds it worrying that a man with enormous access to social media and large financial resources is so directly involved in the internal affairs of other countries. Elon Musk launched into a foul-mouthed X tirade directed at a student who called him out for allegedly spreading disinformation. Elon Musk is rapidly becoming the largest spreader of disinformation in human history, hijacking political debates in the process, wrote Joni Askola, a Finnish graduate student and activist for defense of Ukraine. The EU must take action! F u retard, came Musks response, containing a slur used against people who have mental disabilities. He then replied saying yes to another person who said: We could have avoided a lot of disasters by simply telling leftist retards to stfu. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk appears to have made a conscious choice to reintroduce the word into right-wing parlance of late, often using it on his X platform. An analysis of his X posts and replies shows that he has used the term or a variant of it 15 times since Dec. 20, having never used it before that. This is despite his Dec. 29 plea for more positivity on the platform. Please post a bit more positive, beautiful or informative content on this platform, he said. That post came just days after he used his new favorite slur against Americans during a wild meltdown over H-1B visas. In a weird few days for the DOGE co-star, he agreed with a post that used the slur to say Americans could not exclusively fill the U.S. tech workforce and urged detractors to take a big step back and F--- YOURSELF in the face. Musk has been using the slur a lot. / Reuters/Brian Snyder The word is also a favorite of right-wing mouthpiece Laura Loomer, despite her current spat with Musk. She has used it five times since May, most notably against musician Macklemore after he signaled support for Palestine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk does sometimes spread fake news on his own platform, most notably in August last year when he shared a fake Telegraph article claiming his new foe British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was considering sending far-right rioters to emergency detainment camps in the Falklands, an island off Argentina controlled by the U.K. France 24 described him as a disinformation super-spreader. The site reported that in the first three weeks of October alone, the billionaire published at least 28 fake news stories on his X account, which were seen nearly 540 million times. But perhaps Musk is just stressed that his best friend Donald Trump is reportedly tiring of him. Trump does complain a bit to people about how Musk is around a lot, New York Times journalist and Trump whisperer Maggie Haberman told tech reporter Kara Swisher during the latest episode of Swishers podcast, On. Elon Musk is close to further solidifying his ties with Europes right-wing political class as his SpaceX group nears a historic deal with the Italian government to provide security services to the public sector, just as Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni made a surprise visit to Donald Trumps Florida residence. SpaceX is in advanced talks with the Italian government to supply top-level encryption for telephone and internet services used by the government, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the matter. The deal, which is valued at 1.5 billion, has reportedly already been approved by Italys intelligence services and its Defense Ministry. The deal would represent the latest expansion to SpaceXs activities with national governments after adding 20 nations to its Starlink satellite services in 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The negotiations, which began in mid-2023, stalled as some government officials fretted about the impact on the countrys local carriers. Starlink previously accused Telecom Italia of blocking the rollout of its high-speed internet services across the country. Meloni, who has criticized Italian groups, including Fiat, now part of Stellantis, over accusations of outsourcing their business activities, appears to have made an exception for Musk. Meloni plays down national security fears Speaking to Corriere della Sera, Meloni played down fears that the deal could risk national security. I work to have major investments in Italy and evaluate the usefulness of each investment through the prism of our national interest, said Meloni. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bloomberg reports that the deal made fresh progress after Meloni visited President-elect Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida over the weekend. Representatives for SpaceX and Italys Defense Ministry didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. Musk has developed a close relationship with Meloni, who leads the far-right Brothers of Italy party. The pair bonded over falling birth rates in the Western world and potential applications of AI. They have attended several events together, which included Musk serving as the star guest at the Brothers of Italy annual conference in 2023. Presenting Meloni with a Global Citizen Award in New York in September, Musk described the Italian premier as authentic, honest, truthfuland that cant always be said about politicians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk was forced to deny a romantic relationship with Meloni, who has painted Musk as a misunderstood genius. He is a great figure of our times, an extraordinary innovator who has always had his gaze fixed on the future, Meloni told Corriere. It makes me laugh a bit that there are people who used to praise him as a genius but today depict him as a monster, just because he has chosen the wrong political camp, as they see it. Musk tightens links to Europe The worlds richest person has aggressively courted Europes right-wing parties in recent months after turning his attention away from the U.S. following Trumps election victory in November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk has voiced his support for Germanys far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, and reports suggest he will host a discussion on X with its leader, Alice Weidel. However, Musk has drawn criticism from Olaf Scholz and other German leaders over his comments on the countrys upcoming elections in February. He has also made imprisoned U.K. far-right leader Tommy Robinson his latest cause celebre, calling for his release amid fresh attention on grooming gangs, sparking criticism from U.K. leaders. On Sunday, Musk called for Nigel Farage to step down as leader of the far-right Reform Party, which appeared to result from a disagreement between the pair over Robinson. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com British prime minister Keir Starmer has hit back at Elon Musk, attacking him for lies and misinformation that he said the technology mogul has seemingly spread about a top U.K. minister. Musk has in recent months aligned himself with the right-leaning politics of Donald Trump, Reform U.K.s Nigel Farage (though he has since rescinded his support for the controversial party leader) and Germanys far-right AfD party. More from The Hollywood Reporter Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recently, the multibillionaire has been spreading conspiracy theories on social media site X (formerly Twitter), which he owns, demanding Jess Phillips, one of Starmers safeguarding ministers, be imprisoned and calling her a rape genocide apologist. The SpaceX founder also took aim at Starmer for his failure to prosecute child grooming gangs while serving as director of public prosecutions from 2008 to 2013. Starmer was asked about Musks behavior on Monday, though did not mention him by name. Jess does not need me or anyone else to speak on her behalf but when the poison of the far-right leads to serious threats to Jess Phillips and others, then in my book a line has been crossed, he said. Im prepared to call this out for what it is, continued Starmer, who has been under pressure to respond. Those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible theyre not interested in victims, theyre interested in themselves. He said that others recent obsession with the child grooming gangs is nothing but whipping up of intimidation and threats of violence, hoping the media will amplify it. U.K. Labour party leader Sir Keir Starmer. Phillips rejected a request for the government to lead a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham, England, to which Starmer said: Child sexual exploitation is utterly sickening. For many years, too many victims have been completely let down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added that Phillips has done 1,000 times more than theyve even dreamt about when it comes to protecting victims of sexual abuse and defended his own public record, saying he tackled the issue head-on in his time as public prosecutions director. Musk called for the Labour party leader to face jail time over how the child grooming gangs were dealt with, posting a yes-no poll on X (formerly Twitter) with the statement: America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government. As Trumps reclaim of the White House looms, Musk has been hired as the lead of the new Department of Government Efficiency. Best of The Hollywood Reporter Sign up for THR's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Elon Musk has asked whether the U.S. should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government as the tech billionaire intervened in U.K. politics again. In recent months, the key adviser to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has repeatedly posted attacks on social media of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and his center-left Labour Party, which was elected in July. Most recently, the South African-born U.S. businessman has focused on child sexual abuse and the U.K. governments handling of investigations into organized gangs that allegedly oversaw the systematic rape of young women. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Tesla CEO has also pushed the two-tier policing conspiracy theory, claiming British officials treat pro-Palestinian or Black Lives Matter demonstrators more leniently than far-right protesters. Musks fascination with the U.K. was reportedly set to extend to making a substantial donation to Reform U.K., the growing right-wing party. But that now looks in doubt after Musk on Sunday said leader Nigel Farage doesnt have what it takes. His interest in British politics continued Monday, when he posted an online poll on his X social media site that posed the proposition: America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government. Elon Musk's post on whether America should "liberate" Britain from tyranny. X In his attacks on the U.K. government, Musk has called for the jailing of Jess Phillips, a junior government minister responsible for combating violence against women and girls. He called her a rape genocide apologist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That comment came after Phillips reportedlyrejected calls for a public inquiry into historic child abuse in the northern English town of Oldham and said such a decision was up to the local authorities. Musk also has criticized Starmer for failing to bring perpetrators to justice when he was Englands director of public prosecutions between 2008 and 2013. The previous Conservative government held an inquiry into historic child sex abuse cases, though many of the recommendations it made in 2022 have yet to be implemented. Musks fallout with Farage the political leader had described Musk as a hero stems from the Reform U.K. leader distancing himself from jailed far-right activist Tommy Robinson. Musk has said Robinson should be released from prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, Starmer responded to Musks attacks, condemning those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible. The prime minister defended his record as chief prosecutor, saying he had reopened closed cases and changed the whole prosecution approach to child sexual exploitation. He also slammed the language used by Musk about Phillips. When the poison of the far-right leads to serious threats to Jess Phillips and others, then in my book, a line has been crossed, Starmer said. The billionaires remarks on Britain underline his increased interest in politics across the world after helping bankroll Trumps imminent return to the White House. Musk has also weighed in on German politics recently by endorsing the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Related... SpaceX CEO Elon Musk is calling for NASA to ditch its Artemis program, arguing that the "Moon is a distraction" and that "we're going straight to Mars" instead in a recent tweet and directly contradicting the agency's long-established plans. In a separate tweet on Christmas Day, Musk accused the space agency's Moon program of being "extremely inefficient as it is a jobs-maximizing program, not a results-maximizing program." The broadsides once again highlight the mercurial entrepreneur's obsession with establishing a city on Mars, a starry-eyed vision he wants to see facilitated by his space company's next-generation heavy-lift rockets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And while the idea of ditching the Artemis program which was officially formed by Musk's new ally, president-elect Donald Trump, in 2017 seems bafflingly counterintuitive and shortsighted, his emboldened calls to skip the Moon can't be dismissed given his immense new influence. Musk now holds huge sway not only over the fate of his many businesses, but the political landscape as well, most recently helping Trump win the election and even playing a major role in the torpedoing of a US Congress funding bill last month. Consequently, the South African billionaire has been put in charge of a so-called "Department of Government Efficiency" to excise $2 trillion from the national budget. Whether this advisory group will be able to take aim at the Artemis program remains to be seen. Nonetheless, now that Musk has a significant foothold in Washington, DC, NASA's efforts to land the first astronauts on the surface of the Moon before the end of this decade could be in serious trouble or at least look dramatically different after some high-powered meddling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What's perhaps most likely, at least in the short term, is that instead of scrapping NASA's plan, the Trump-Musk alliance could make significant adjustments instead, perhaps by ditching the agency's expensive and inefficient Space Launch System in favor of SpaceX's reusable Starship or Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket, as Ars Technica's Eric Berger suggests. One unknown is NASA's incoming administrator Jared Isaacman, a billionaire and private astronaut who has been to space twice with the help of SpaceX but who so far has expressed support for NASA's existing lunar gameplan. In a statement Isaacman tweeted following his nomination, the billionaire proclaimed that "Americans will walk on the Moon and Mars and in doing so, we will make life better here on Earth." That vision directly contradicts Musk's desire to aim our sights exclusively at Mars, a striking difference in tune that will be fascinating to watch play out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Will Trump's administration and Isaacman bend the knee, calling off upcoming Artemis missions or will it be a matter of appeasing Musk's plans while simultaneously pursuing American boots on the Moon? Chances are, we'll have to wait quite some time until we get a definitive answer. The Artemis program has formed an intricate web between NASA and its private contractors, SpaceX included, which likely can't be ripped apart or burned down overnight. More on Artemis: NASA's Moon Landing Gets Pushed Back Yet Again A parade of trucks carried out tons of debris last week at Mackenzie Junction, the intersection of two rural highways east of Westcliffe in Southeast Colorado. The effort was successful in clearing the roads connecting rural communities in Custer County after a large rockslide blocked access on the afternoon of Dec. 29. The rockslide closed both Colorado 96 and Colorado 165 when the face of a cliff crumbled into the roadway at the intersection. Bystander and Westcliffe resident Sierra Wright captured the moment the majority of the debris fell away. According to the Custer County Sheriffs Office, Langston Concrete contracted to remove the rock and dirt last week, moving 678 truck loads of debris over 4 days. The roads were reopened by Jan. 3, though the Colorado Department of Transportation may conduct additional mitigation of the still-fragile cliffside. Featured Local Savings While the rockslide is cleared, the cause remains in play. Jay Temple, a consulting geologist with the Colorado Geological Survey, told Custer County officials in a briefing on Dec. 30 that the rockslide was the result of an ancient, inactive fault line that intersected with the roadway. What has happened here is that we are on a major fault zone, he said. This fault zone runs right through the highway and goes right down at the intersection between Highway 96 and Highway 165 that goes up through Rye. The Isle fault, last tectonically active over a billion years ago according to Temple, caused fractures and micro faults along the edge of the hillside. Those were made larger by yearly snow melt. Then, eventually, it gets to the point where, especially because of the slope here, it is then going to gravitationally adjust itself, he said. Pointing to the existence of abundant fractures in the remaining slope, Temple said he expected more removal of rock to prevent rocklides in the future. DUBAI (Reuters) - UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed discussed bolstering "brotherly" ties with Syria during the first official visit by Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani to the United Arab Emirates on Monday, Emirati state news agency WAM reported. The two ministers also discussed the overall developments in Syria since former President Bashar al-Assad was ousted by rebels on Dec. 8. The UAE's foreign minister reiterated the country's support for Syria's independence and sovereignty, WAM added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Syria's Defence Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra, head of intelligence Anas Khattab and the UAE's minister of state for defence affairs, Mohammed Fadel al-Mazrouei, also attended the meeting. The UAE is part of Shibani's second foreign tour, which earlier took him to Qatar and will also include a visit to Jordan. He said the visits aim to "support stability, security, economic recovery and build distinguished partnerships", according to his account on X. Shibani made his first foreign trip to Saudi Arabia last week, where Saudi officials discussed how best to support Syria's political transition. (Reporting by Clauda Tanios and Jaidaa Taha; Editing by Toby Chopra and Alex Richardson) The Long Island dad who described rescuing his teen from a boat after she disappeared for a month says he believes she was sex-trafficked and forced to do things that a 14-year-old girl shouldnt have to do. Frank Gervasis daughter Emmarae vanished the night of Dec. 9 after reportedly getting into a strange car outside their Patchogue home, and the family said it was terrified that someone had kidnapped her. Her dad and Suffolk County cops then said Friday that she had been found on the boat in Islip and in a Sunday Facebook video, Gervasi detailed what he thought might have happened to her. Frank Gervasi, 49, says he found his daughter Emmarae through an anonymous tip. Frank Gervasi/Facebook Emma was being held against her will, the bearded, tatted-up dad said, adding that hed read a lot of dumb comments that claimed the teen could have just left on her own. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was not allowed to leave the boat unless she was escorted by somebody, and she was being forced to do things that a 14-year-old girl shouldnt have to do, he continued. So I do believe this is sex-trafficking, and its being looked into. He said the young teen is doing well in her recovery after her month-long nightmare, which only ended when a woman called him with an anonymous tip that ultimately led him to the boat. The phone call I received was that she was on a boat in Islip, he said, adding he was initially skeptical. The lady who gave me the tip was afraid to go in the boat. But the desperate dad said he had no such fear, busting into Emmas prison ship moored in a marina near the White Cap Fish Market to rescue her Friday. Emmarae Gervasi, 14, went missing for a month before her father says he rescued her from a boat in a marina in Islip. Frank Gervasi/ Facebook Emma is recovering from her ordeal, her dad says. No one else was on board at the time, Gervasi said. He added that he thought shed been held by some dangerous people and that there was a lookout boat nearby to keep tabs on her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She is in a facility right now getting the help she needs and is safe, Gervasi said in a Saturday social media video. Id like to thank the community for all of the support that you gave us. Emmarae was last seen leaving her house without a jacket or shoes and getting into the car, according to Greater Long Island. Gervasi said he had been searching up and down Long Island for his missing daughter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is the boat that Emmarae was reportedly being held on in Islip. News 12 Security cameras captured her knocking on doors at a Bohemia motel the next day, but she disappeared again. Gervasi said his daughter initially went off with a man she met online, but left him and was later picked up by a random 65-year-old man she didnt know. Over the past month, Gervasi pleaded for help on social media and said he searched for leads on his own, driving around Long Island in what sometimes felt like a futile search. I was starting to lose hope, he said at one point. I woke up yesterday, and I wanted to give up. I wanted to die. I just didnt know where my little girl was. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, Gervasi said, he wants to help other New York families whose kids might have similarly disappeared. My nightmare is over. However, other parents nightmares are still existing and their children are still missing, he said Sunday. Its an awful feeling, and its something that were going to be actively working on, trying to figure out how to help other families. Trafficking is a huge problem across the world, he continued. Its a very big problem on Long Island, and I stress that parents should keep an eye on their children. These people are predators, and they will stop at nothing to get to your kids. An employee who was sent to the hospital following an incident involving a boiler on Sunday at a wastewater treatment plant in Norwich has been released. The incident was reported at 9:30 a.m. at the Norwich Public Utilities Wastewater Treatment Plant, according to Chris Riley, a spokesperson for the utility company. The employee who was injured was taken in an ambulance to Backus Hospital. Riley said officials were encouraged by the initial reports from the hospital and that the victim was released around 2 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cause of the incident remains under investigation. The response at the scene included the Norwich Police Department and the Norwich Fire Department. We do not anticipate any operational impact from this incident on the wastewater treatment plant, Riley said in a statement. No other details were immediately available. The EU energy market remains stable following the end of the Russian gas transit through Ukraine, European Commission spokesperson Anna-Kaisa Itkonen said at a briefing in Brussels on Jan. 6. Ukraine terminated Russian natural gas transit through its territory on Jan. 1. Kyiv has repeatedly warned that it would not extend the agreement when it expires at the end of 2024 because it did not want to finance Russia's war. "We have been working intensely for over a year with our member states and with Ukraine as well to prepare in advance for this scenario," the spokesperson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked about whether such a move caused any kind of emergency in Slovakia, she said that the Gas Coordination Group held talks last week and concluded that "there are no security supplies issues or concerns for the European Union following the end of the transit." "The markets had already factored in at the end of transit agreement. And we have not seen price spikes in the new year," Itkonen added. While the EU has made efforts to reduce dependency on Russian fossil fuels following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, many countries remain reliant on Russian gas. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and his Slovak counterpart Robert Fico have been among some of the most vocal opponents of Ukraine's decision to stop Russian gas transit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his New Year's address, Fico said that stopping Russian gas transit through Ukraine would have "radical consequences" for everyone in the European Union, but not for Russia. Fico claimed that gas and electricity prices in Europe would rise. Fico previously threatened to cut off electricity supplies to Ukraine amid increasing blackouts due to Russian attacks targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Read also: One of Moscows biggest defeats Zelensky on stopping Russian gas transit via Ukraine Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The workforce of Energoatom, Ukraine's state-owned nuclear power company, has decreased from 35,000 employees to approximately 30,000 since the beginning of the full-scale war. Source: a report by Energoatom quoting company head Petro Kotin on 6 January, as reported by Interfax-Ukraine Details: Nearly 1,000 of Energoatoms employees have joined Ukraines armed forces to defend the country. Meanwhile, 3,000 workers chose to sign contracts with Rosatom, the Russian state-owned nuclear energy corporation, and stay at the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. A further 2,000 employees have left Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kotin said around 5,000 employees of the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant remain in Ukrainian-controlled territory and are working in other divisions of Energoatom. Background: The construction and installation of new power units at the Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraines west will require an additional 9,000 employees and the recruitment of new staff. Support UP or become our patron! Two Russian airliners were forced to return to their departure airports due to engine failures shortly after takeoff, The Moscow Times reported on Jan. 4, citing Russian media. Western sanctions imposed after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine have severely impacted the countrys aviation industry. Cut off from parts and support from Western manufacturers, Russian airlines have struggled to maintain aircraft. An Airbus A321neo operated by Ural Airlines experienced a left engine failure at an altitude of 4,500 meters (2.7 miles) on Jan. 4 while flying from Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, to Yekaterinburg. The crew reported the malfunction and returned to the departure airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Similarly, a Boeing 737 belonging to NordStar Airlines suffered a left engine failure at 11,300 meters (7 miles) during a flight from Volgograd to Ekaterinburg on Jan. 2, prompting its crew to return to Gumrak airport in Volgograd. The airlines confirmed that both planes have been grounded for technical inspections and condition assessments. According to Russia's Izvestia newspaper, as of Nov. 13, about 30 Russian airlines accounting for 26% of domestic passenger traffic face potential bankruptcy in 2025 due to accumulated debts and difficulties leasing foreign aircraft. In the meantime, Russia has struggled to reduce its reliance on foreign-made passenger jets, as seen in a deadly crash in July 2024. A domestically-produced Sukhoi Superjet 100 crashed in a forest near Moscow during a test flight following scheduled maintenance, killing all three crew members on board, state-controlled TASS news agency reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Absurd versions Azerbaijans president accuses Russia, condemns Putins denial in plane crash Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Donald Trump is (unsurprisingly) trying to get out of his sentencing hearing for the 34 felony counts in his hush-money case. In a 17-page filing Monday, Trumps lawyers announced that the president-elect would seek an automatic stay on his sentencing, challenging New York State Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchans rejection of presidential immunity claims. Trumps lawyers argued that the Supreme Courts decision in Trump v. United States required a stay of all trial proceedings, as Trump had been granted presidential immunity for official acts. They also argued that Merchan had wrongly denied Trumps request to have the verdict dismissed on those same grounds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Due to the fact that further criminal proceedings are automatically stayed by operation of federal constitutional law, the Court will lack authority to proceed with sentencing, must therefore immediately vacate the sentencing hearing scheduled for January 10, 2025, and suspend all proceedings in the case until the conclusion of President Trumps appeal on Presidential immunity, Trumps lawyers wrote. The lawyers requested a response from the court on whether they intend to proceed with the sentencing by the end of Monday. Last week, Merchan ordered that Trump attend a sentencing hearing on January 10, a little more than a week before his inauguration. Merchan made clear in his order that he did not plan to levy a sentence of jail time, fines, or probation against the president-elect. Instead, Merchan said he plans to sentence Trump with unconditional discharge, which means he will receive no punishment. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg responded Monday in a 16-page filing, urging the judge not to postpone Trumps sentencing. Braggs office argued that Trumps claim that presidential immunity should spare him from trial proceedings was moot, considering that the trial itself ended several months ago, and emphasized Merchans intention to give an unconditional discharge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is no risk here of an extended proceeding that impairs the discharge of defendants official dutiesduties he does not possess before January 20, 2025 in any event, Bragg wrote. Over the weekend, Trump published several angry posts ranting against the RIGGED case and claiming his innocenceto which a jury of his peers did not agree. I never falsified business records. It is a fake, made up charge by a corrupt judge who is just doing the work of the Biden/Harris Injustice Department, an attack on their political opponent, ME! Trump wrote. Lodged within Trumps diatribes, the president-elect signaled his hopes to use his conviction as the pretext for a new authoritarian rule. This story has been updated. Henry Enrique Tarrio, the former Proud Boys leader convicted of seditious conspiracy and sentenced to 22 years in prison, has requested a full and complete pardon from President-elect Donald Trump on the fourth anniversary of the attack on the U.S. Capitol that he had a hand in orchestrating. Nayib Hassan, Tarrios lawyer, wrote Monday in a letter to Trump that the former leader of the extremist group is a young man with an aspiring future ahead of him, and argued that Tarrio was portrayed throughout the governments case as a right-wing extremist that promoted a neo-fascist militant organization. Hassan wrote that because Tarrio was arrested on Jan. 4, 2021, for unrelated charges, and was ordered out of Washington, D.C., he did not partake in the rally that took place on January 6, 2021. Hassan also lamented that his client has been placed in a special housing unit in prison where he can only see the outside of his cell for one hour a day, and argued that this is a cruel and an unusual punishment that has negatively affected Tarrios mental health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nonetheless, the government pushed forward charging and prosecuting Henry, along with four individuals in the same trial, for expressing their freedom of expression, the letter states. Tarrio was convicted in May 2023 for seditious conspiracy and a slew of other charges, including conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, obstructing an official proceeding, conspiracy to prevent officials from discharging their duties, impeding officers during civil disorder and more. At the months-long trial, prosecutors argued that Tarrio purposefully entered D.C. on Jan. 4 to be arrested for his destruction of a Black Lives Matter banner some three weeks earlier. It was, prosecutors said, a convenient way to establish an alibi for his whereabouts on Jan. 6. Last month, former D.C. Metropolitan Police Lt. Shane Lamond was convicted of obstructing justice and lying to federal investigators about leaking insider information to Tarrio in the days leading up to the Capitol attack. Through hundreds of text messages, prosecutors showed an intimate relationship between the men, with Lamond calling Tarrio brother and alerting the Proud Boys leader that a warrant for his arrest for the destruction of the banner was likely. Indeed, Tarrio was not at the Capitol as it came under siege. Instead, he was watching the action from a hotel room in Baltimore, busily texting with other Proud Boys and whipping people into a frenzy on social media. Tarrio did not have to be at the site of the riot to sanction what unfolded there, Assistant U.S. Attorney Connor Mulroe argued at trial. Mulroe also reminded jurors that at no point on Jan. 6 did Tarrio tell Proud Boys to stand down or not to be violent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Make no mistake, Tarrio wrote to members of Proud Boys leadership as he watched the chaos. We did this. Tarrio also posted messages on the social media site Parler, writing Dont fucking leave, Proud of my boys and 1776. In an encrypted and exclusive Proud Boys group text channel created by Tarrio, known as the Ministry of Self Defense, he gushed on Jan. 6: Proud of yall. Hours after the havoc and bloodshed had finally ended, Tarrio posted a video of himself online. The clip shows him standing in front of the Capitol with his face partially covered. He shot the video on Jan. 5 and waited until Jan. 6 to post it, with the caption: Premonition. When the riot was over, he expressed no remorse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im not denouncing shit, Tarrio said. Trump has repeatedly said he will pardon Jan. 6 rioters, though he has hedged about whether he intends to issue pardons en masse or if he will review the cases individually. Many federal judges, congresspeople and legal experts have condemned the idea of blanket pardons for Jan. 6 rioters, and particularly those rioters who were violent and who committed the most serious charge to emerge from all Jan. 6 prosecutions: seditious conspiracy. Last month, a federal judge who oversaw the seditious conspiracy trial and conviction of Oath Keepers leader Elmer Stewart Rhodes warned that the prospect of total absolution for Rhodes actions is frightening and ought to be frightening to anyone who cares about democracy in this country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rhodes is serving an 18-year prison sentence for seditious conspiracy and other charges. In an interview with The Times published Sunday, Tarrios mother, Zuny Tarrio, said she hopes Trump will pardon her son. My hope is 100 per cent that my child will be pardoned, she said. I believe in Donald Trumps word he knows who his supporters were and are. Some Jan. 6 rioters have expressed remorse for their actions while being sentenced. Others have pointedly declined to do so. Last January, when Proud Boy Marc Bru was sentenced to six years in prison for obstruction of an official proceeding, civil disorder and more, he told the judge: You could give me 100 years and I would still do it all over again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dominic Pezzola, a Proud Boy charged alongside Tarrio and considered the tip of the spear that first led rioters into the Capitol, was tearful at his sentencing, proclaiming there was no place in my future for groups or politics whatsoever. Literal minutes later, before he exited the courtroom to be led off to prison, Pezzola pumped his fist in the air and shouted: Trump won! According to the Justice Department, as of Monday, approximately 1,583 defendants have been charged with federal crimes connected to Jan. 6, including 608 charged with assaulting, resisting or impeding officers and 174 charged with using a deadly or dangerous weapon. Related... The South Carolina Department of Education headquarters in Lexington County (Provided by SC Department of Education) As an educator, I remember the late nights all too well the hours spent piecing together resources, searching online and crafting material. Like so many educators, I wanted my lessons to engage every student and meet the expectations of rigorous state standards. Its a Herculean effort. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This isnt just my story. Across the country, countless teachers are doing the same, pouring their hearts into creating lessons from scratch. Unfortunately, research from TNTP (formerly The New Teacher Project) shows that these well-intentioned, teacher-created resources align with grade-level standards only about 20% of the time, according to a 2018 report. This is not because teachers arent working hard enough. Its because were asking them to do too much with too little. This status quo leaves students without consistent access to the quality instruction they deserve, and its exhausting for teachers. But it doesnt have to be this way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If we want to honor teachers time and position them to thrive in their classrooms, we must provide only the best instructional resources tools that free them to teach, not force them to work long hours after school to fill gaps on their own. Imagine asking a carpenter to build a house with a dull saw or bent nails. Even the most skilled craftsman would struggle to deliver quality work. Teachers face a similar challenge when theyre handed outdated, incomplete, or unengaging materials and asked to just make it work. By equipping teachers with quality, well-designed resources, we give them the tools to deliver meaningful instruction that meets the needs of all their students. These tools provide a reliable toolbox from which to work. These materials dont stifle a teachers creativity. They enhance it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But tools alone arent enough. Teachers also need meaningful professional support to help them succeed in the classroom. In South Carolina, nearly 20,000 teachers have begun specialized training programs designed to deepen their understanding of how children learn to read, particularly in foundational skills like phonics. These programs emphasize evidence-based strategies that equip teachers to teach essential skills such as decoding words, building fluency, and fostering comprehension. With this practical knowledge, teachers are better prepared to give every child the strong reading foundation they need to succeed. When paired with high-quality classroom materials, this kind of professional learning has the power to truly transform instruction and help students thrive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When we provide teachers with quality tools and meaningful professional support, we amplify their impact in the classroom. These efforts dont just lighten their workload, they help retain passionate educators and improve outcomes for students. Here in South Carolina, were making real progress. Thanks to strong support from the General Assembly and the State Board of Education, the South Carolina Department of Education has adopted new instructional materials for English language arts, which are already being implemented in schools statewide. Were also in the process of reviewing math materials with the same level of care to ensure they meet state standards and provide teachers with the resources they need for student success. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These efforts are paying off. I recently spoke with a South Carolina teacher who shared how having access to new instructional materials freed her from hours of preparation. Now, I can focus on engaging my students instead of worrying about creating lessons from scratch, she told me. This is exactly the kind of impact were working to achieve. When teachers have access to high-quality materials, they can spark curiosity, foster critical thinking, and promote the kind of lasting learning that sets students up for success not just in school, but in life. Lets renew our commitment to supporting South Carolinas teachers and students. By giving teachers the tools and training they need, we can ensure every child has access to an excellent education and the opportunity to reach their full potential. Let us know what you think... (WJET/WFXP) The Erie SeaWolves have released a new childrens book detailing the origin of their mascot C. Wolf through an imaginative journey. A Mascot Tale: The Untold Story of C. Wolf is written and digitally illustrated by Kevin Coleman with themes of overcoming challenges, finding your unique talents, and the power of positive encouragement paralleling his story as a student with autism. ExpERIEnce Childrens Museum gifted $10,000 for education programs Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The son of Team President Greg Coleman, Kevin is a 22-year-old animation student at PennWest Edinboro having graduated from McDowell High School and studied Graphic Media & Design at Erie County Technical School. He aslo performs under the name Sharkbait at SeaWolves home games. I enjoy origin stories, and it was fun to bring C. Wolfs story to life, said the author. I hope SeaWolves fans enjoy reading this tale. Good boy! Millcreek Polices PTSD dog Tucker receives promotion The book is available for purchase for $12 at the SeaWolves team store or online with a portion of sales benefitting the Autism Society Northwestern Pennsylvania and will be the centerpiece of C. Wolfs Reading Club. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A full interview with Kevin Coleman can also be found here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (Bloomberg) -- The European Union said it will closely monitor whether Elon Musks upcoming interview with German far-right leader Alice Weidel on his X social media network runs afoul of its content moderation rules. Most Read from Bloomberg The blocs executive arm, the European Commission, will specifically be looking to see if Xs algorithms are used to boost Thursdays live-streamed encounter with the chancellor candidate from the Alternative for Germany, or AfD, party in a way that poses a risk to election integrity, spokesperson Thomas Regnier said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will look at the systemic risks that can come from certain practices on a platform such as a live-stream for example, the boosting, the recommender systems, Regnier told reporters Monday. He added that the scheduled live-stream doesnt breach the EUs Digital Services Act, but users of X in Europe should be able to opt out of being shown the video. We are already looking into how Musk might be boosting his own tweets, Regnier added. Musk, who has become one of President-elect Donald Trumps top confidants, has been increasingly outspoken in his backing of far-right leaders and parties in several European countries, and he has strongly criticized several leaders on the continent in recent weeks. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has blasted Musks support of AfD ahead of next months snap election, while French President Emmanuel Macron hit out at Musk in a speech to ambassadors in Paris Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ten years ago, if anyone had said that the owner of one of the worlds largest social networks would support a new reactionary alliance and intervene directly in elections, even in Germany, who would have imagined it? Macron said. AfD is currently polling in second place in the German elections, behind the center-right CDU/CSU bloc. In December 2023, the EU opened an investigation into X for multiple potential DSA breaches, including its policies on elections and civic discourse. Regnier said that any findings related to the live-stream will be assessed in the context of the ongoing investigation. Large online platforms found in breach of the DSA can be slapped with fines of as much as 6% of their annual global sales. Last year, the commission warned X that the amount of any DSA fine might be calculated not just on Xs revenues, but on Musks broader business empire, triggering the tycoons ire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement --With assistance from Samy Adghirni. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Since the election of Donald Trump as president of the United States, the question on everyone's mind is whether Europe, including the U.K., can replace the military assistance the U.S. is giving Ukraine. The short answer is no. The reasons for this are a mix of politics and capabilities. The U.S. and the European Union currently provide similar amounts of military aid to Ukraine 43% each, according to the latest figures. In the EU, Germany is the largest donor (12%), and the United Kingdom provides the second-most generous assistance from outside the EU (9%). These figures speak for themselves: For the EU to replace the U.S., it would need to double its military aid to Ukraine. The current political situation in Europe, along with the real military capabilities of individual European countries, means Europe will not be able to step up in the short term. This is bad for Ukraine and bad news for Europe, which is slowly waking up to the reality that without the U.S., it would struggle to mount any meaningful defense against an outside aggressor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How did we get here? After the end of the Cold War, most European countries reduced their military production and/or shifted their military industrial models, focusing on export markets and just-in-time production. The Kiel Institute for the World Economy, a German research center, provides the example of Germany, which has recently increased military spending. But at current rates, it would take decades for the country to replenish its weapons stockpiles to the level they were 20 years ago. According to the European Council on Foreign Relations, Since the start of Russias war on Ukraine, Europes defense industry has increased its ammunition production capacity by 50% and aims to produce more than 2 million shells per year by the end of 2025 double its capacity in February 2022, which is a positive development. The European Commission has proposed shifting the EU to a war economy, but this is still in the discussion phase. Ukraine will need more than proposals debated in Brussels to meet the shortfall left by a potential American withdrawal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To complicate matters, defense is one of the least integrated industrial sectors in the EU, meaning it cannot benefit from the economies of scale of the U.S. military-industrial complex. Since Brexit, the U.K. will no longer be able to participate in EU-wide defense industry projects, adding to the challenges. Bilateral agreements between the U.K. and France and between the U.K. and Germany, however, will attempt to facilitate military procurement and development between the U.K. and two major European defense heavyweights. French President Emmanuel Macron and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy meet with President-Elect Donald Trump at the Elysee Palace in Paris, France on Dec. 7, 2024. (Oleg Nikishin/Getty Images) French President Emmanuel Macron has been one of the most vocal Western European leaders calling for an independent European defense and for wholehearted support for Ukraine. But actual progress in ramping up industrial production in France has been slow. France remains one of the smallest contributors of military aid to Ukraine relative to its GDP, although the French have delivered most of what they have promised. The lack of capacity is not just a European problem but a NATO-wide issue. In February 2023, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg warned that Ukraines rate of ammunition expenditure was many times higher than the allies current production rate, putting NATO defense industries under strain. Even before Trumps victory, a U.S. disengagement from Europe seemed likely due to strains on its own defense sector and the defense establishments strategic pivot toward Asia and the Middle East. Keir Giles of Chatham House, whose book Who Will Defend Europe was launched earlier this month, argues that Europe always knew what Trumps arrival would mean for Ukraine. A precursor was seen earlier this year when Congress blocked the new military aid package to Ukraine. The result on the battlefield was clear in terms of loss of men and territory. Giles warning is dire: If Washington resigns, there is nothing to stand in the way of Russia, be it for Ukraine or for Europe as a whole. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Ukraine approaches the third anniversary of all-out war with Russia, pressure is mounting on its leaders to negotiate. Because of years of criminal dereliction of duty by European governments, as Giles calls it, Europe now finds itself in a position where it cannot defend a country that has sacrificed tens, maybe hundreds, of thousands of lives to defend not only its own territory but Europe as a whole. At the time of writing, Germany, Europes largest military donor to Ukraine, has plunged into political chaos with the collapse of the Olaf Scholz-led coalition. Frances Macron, a staunch defender of Ukraine despite his initial impulses to seek dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin, has lost much of his freedom of action since the June parliamentary elections, where he lost his majority. Elsewhere in Europe, political parties on the far right and far left, with pro-Russian sympathies, are rising. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a friend of Putin and Trump, is a major obstacle to EU-wide military assistance to Ukraine. The countries on Europes new frontline the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, as well as Poland understand the Russian threat. They have been generous toward Ukraine in absolute terms while ramping up their own defense spending. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the EU and its member states have made strides in increasing military aid and production, the stark reality remains that Europe cannot yet fill the void left by the U.S., either in terms of its own defense or that of Ukraine. As long as perceived national interests continue to diverge and political stability wavers, particularly in key countries like Germany and France, Europe will struggle to forge a unified and effective response to the war raging on its continent. But the time for Europe to confront its obligations is now, as the stakes have never been higher. This should start by emulating Poland and the Nordic countries, understanding that defending Ukraine is not an act of charity, but the number one priority for self-defense. Editors Note: The opinions expressed in the op-ed section are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Kyiv Independent. Submit an Opinion Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The News US President-elect Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met for informal talks ahead of the US Congress certification of Trumps election victory Monday. The weekend meeting has underscored the widespread expectation that the hard-right Italian leader will be integral to the European Unions relationship with Trumps White House after the Republican takes office on Jan. 20. Trump described Meloni as a fantastic woman who has really taken Europe by storm. Meanwhile, the Italian government is apparently in talks with Trump ally Elon Musks SpaceX over a $1.6 billion deal involving Starlink internet service, Bloomberg reported. SIGNALS Meloni could be a bridge for Trumpism in Europe Sources: BBC, The New York Times, The Economist Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Few European leaders have managed to curry such favor with Donald Trump as Giorgia Meloni, and there is some expectation that the Italian leader can serve as a diplomatic bridge between the US and European Union, the BBC reported. Meloni who has cultivated a strategically ambiguous ideological profile has surprised her critics by developing warm relationships with more centrist European leaders, including President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. In turn, that ambiguity positions Meloni well to bring Trumpism to Europe as the continent shifts rightward anyway, a columnist argued in The New York Times. Still, Meloni faces a balancing act, The Economist wrote: Italys economic issues mean she cant afford to alienate EU allies by leaning too much right. Melonis relationship with Musk faces scrutiny Sources: Politico, France24, CNN Critics of the Italian prime minister both at home and in Brussels have argued that the mooted Starlink deal would make Rome overly reliant on Elon Musk, Politico reported: One progressive German member of the European Parliament wrote that the proposed deal hands over Italian government, defense and military communication to an unpredictable proto-fascist. Melonis apparent friendship with Musk is increasingly out of step with how other European leaders view the tech billionaire: German, French, and UK leaders have recently accused Musk of political meddling and even election interference. UPDATE: Parents, faculty and students have been told that the evacuation at Creekside High School Monday morning has been lifted. END UPDATE CREEKSIDE HS UPDATE: Students and staff were safely evacuated to a nearby location with a law enforcement escort.... Posted by St. Johns County Sheriff's Office on Monday, January 6, 2025 St. Johns County Sheriffs Office said that Creekside High School was evacuated Monday morning due to a bomb threat. SJSO posted the following about the threat on its Facebook page: LAW ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITY AT CREEKSIDE HS: SJSO received information this morning from a subject who was on a dark web site and observed a photo of a backpack and language about a few bombs being placed around Creekside High School. Real Time Intelligence Center (RTIC) analysts discovered the photograph is associated with a bomb threat investigation from 2011 in Spokane Washington. Out of caution, students and staff will be evacuated to a safe location while a K9 conducts a search of the school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Read: JSO: Gunman opens fire on residence, shoots man through bedroom wall Read: Were standing on principle: Nocatee group walks 3.5 miles Sunday in face of possible legal challenges Read: Jimmy Carters state funeral has started. Heres what to know [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. CHICAGO Attorneys for ex-House Speaker Michael Madigan unveiled a key point in their defense case Monday morning, saying they intend to show proof that Madigans offices had long-established protocols intended to prevent conflicts of interest between his government work and his private law practice. That claim, the defense says, would rebut prosecutors allegations that Madigan supported legislation to transfer a parcel of land in Chinatown because he anticipated getting business from the lands would-be developers. That is a false narrative, defense attorney Daniel Collins said in court Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This goes to the heart of why Mr. Madigan felt comfortable answering questions on Chinatown, because he was never going to get that business, Collins said. He knew he was not going to be taking this work and therefore acted the way he did. The attorneys argument Monday took place before jurors took their seats for the first time since an 18-day break for the holidays. Before the panel was sent home Dec. 19, the trials spotlight had finally turned to Madigans defense team, whose witnesses so far have offered a far different picture of the powerful Democratic speaker than the image of a conniving and opportunistic political machine boss painted by prosecutors. Prosecutors on Monday objected strenuously to the inclusion of evidence about Madigans law firm protocols, but ultimately U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey allowed it in. There is a independent evidentiary significance to the fact that the firm, not the defendant but the firm, had a procedure in place which would present an obstacle to the taking on of a particular type of work or a particular project that would present a conflict of interest, Blakey said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Defense attorneys intend to call Madigans former law partner, Vincent Bud Getzendanner, to the stand later this week to testify about the firms safeguards against conflicts of interest. But the subject was also introduced Monday through the testimony of Justin Cox, formerly a top lawyer for the speakers office. As chief counsel, Cox would meet with Madigan and Getzendanner twice a year to go through their client list, he testified. So I would be aware if there was a potential conflict, and we could flag that and make sure the speaker would not vote on a bill there may be a conflict on, Cox said. In arguing that jurors should not be allowed to hear about the conflict checks, prosecutors mentioned a wiretapped phone call between Cox and Michael McClain, Madigans co-defendant, in which McClain told Cox to make sure Madigan does not vote yes or no on the Chinatown land transfer bill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is a reflection that Mr. Madigan was going to take this business, Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Streicker said. On the stand Monday, Cox said he remembered that phone call, but didnt find it particularly notable because Madigan routinely refrained from voting on land transfer legislation. (McClain) mentioned the speaker should be not voting on the bill bc it related to one of the developers that it wasnt clear if it was a client or somebody who was looking for business, Cox told the jury. It was our normal process for the speaker to not vote on land transfer bills so I didnt view it as particularly concerning. Before Cox took the stand, jurors heard again from David Ellis, the Illinois appellate court justice and former top counsel to Madigan, who testified before the break that the speaker used his political power to stand up for labor interests and blue-collar families and rein in greedy companies such as utility giant Commonwealth Edison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors allege ComEd officials participated in a long bribery scheme to win Madigans influence by funneling no-work consulting jobs to his cronies, hiring a law firm run by Madigans ally, and putting Madigans choice on the utilitys board of directors. Ellis, however, said that during his time in the speakers office, he was instructed by Madigan to hold ComEds feet to the fire, insisting on job creation for Illinois residents, rate caps and a sunset provision that would ensure the company had to come back to the General Assembly and show it had kept its word. They didnt like anything I was doing, Ellis testified. I wouldnt have expected them to. Ellis continued his testimony Monday with cross-examination from prosecutors, who established that Ellis had little to no experience with the political side of Madigans operation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another witness Madigans defense team has said they intend to call is the accountant for star prosecution witness Daniel Solis, the former 14th Ward alderman who made secret recordings of Madigan during his turn as an FBI mole but was also accused in cross examination of cheating on his taxes during his cooperation. Madigans lawyer also said they want to call a former IRS official to offer analysis of Solis alleged tax malfeasance. Both sides have told Blakey that there are likely two to three more days worth of witnesses in Madigans defense case, followed by what likely will be a short prosecution rebuttal. The case would then proceed to the final phase of closing arguments and jury deliberations. But the trial, which has run longer than expected, is about to encounter another unforeseen delay as the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse will be closed Thursday as part of a national day of mourning for President Jimmy Carter, who died Dec. 29. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That means closing arguments in the case will likely not occur until next week at the earliest. Madigan, 82, a Southwest Side Democrat, and his longtime confidant, Michael McClain, 77, of downstate Quincy, are charged in a 23-count indictment alleging Madigans vaunted state and political operations were run like a criminal enterprise to amass and increase his power and enrich himself and his associates. In addition to bribery schemes involving ComEd and AT&T Illinois, the indictment alleges Madigan pressured developers to hire the speakers law firm and tried to win business by secretly supporting legislation to transfer state-owned land in Chinatown to the city so developers could build a condo tower. Both Madigan and McClain have denied wrongdoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, before the case can go to closing arguments, there will be more work to do among the parties on the all-important jury instructions, which have taken on even more significance in the wake of a U.S. Supreme Court ruling last year that recast a federal bribery statute central to the Madigan indictment. In a five-hour conference last week, attorneys for both sides argued over a number of nitty-gritty legal elements, including how to define the word corruptly in the instructions given to the jury, which will be a key factor jurors have to weigh in determining Madigans intent. The judge held off making any final rulings on the issue, giving the attorneys a chance to confer among themselves and make alternate proposals. ____ Jan. 5Jockeying for power is a collision sport in Santa Fe. Lawmakers at the state Capitol usually grab the headlines in January, but this year they have to share the spotlight with city politicians. JoAnne Vigil Coppler, who finished second in Santa Fe's mayoral election in 2021, will run again this fall. She told me in a text message she plans to formally announce her candidacy this week. Vigil Coppler might not be the only candidate making a comeback. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ron Trujillo, second-place finisher in the 2018 race for mayor, said he will decide by the end of January whether to run. Trujillo said Vigil Coppler's entry in the race won't influence his decision. Vigil Coppler, 70, and Trujillo, 56, both lost to Mayor Alan Webber, a man they criticize as an inept administrator. They say basic services such as police protection, road maintenance and upkeep of parks deteriorated under Webber. Many residents share the views of Trujillo and Vigil Coppler, though complainers don't necessarily bother to vote. Webber, 76, has not said whether he will seek a third term. My guess is he will not run again, enabling him to devote the year to public relations. Routine work such as completing financial audits on schedule will be hailed as wondrous advances. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Should Webber try for another term, he might benefit from what's shaping up as a large field of challengers. In addition to Vigil Coppler, three other candidates for mayor already have emerged. Webber spent a record $507,000 in his 2021 campaign, and he still has a base of benefactors to draw from. A multitude of challengers might split the votes of residents who want a change at City Hall. In recent cycles, mayoral elections in Santa Fe have been met with apathy. That also benefits Webber. He lives on the southeast side of town, where turnout is highest. Trujillo said low participation hurt him in the 2018 election. A three-term city councilor at the time, he carried his own district by only 33 votes over Webber. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A total of 20,614 people voted in the five-way race for mayor in 2018. Turnout was almost as high the previous year for a special election in which the only issue was whether to raise taxes on sugary drinks. The sugar tax lost in a landslide. If Trujillo runs, he said one challenge would be expanding his name recognition. Ongoing battles with Webber over historical monuments occasionally kept Trujillo in the news since he was a councilor. Webber in 2020 unilaterally ordered the removal of a statue of conquistador Don Diego de Vargas from Cathedral Park. Webber said the statue would be stored in a secure city building. Trujillo documented that the statue instead was left in the courtyard of a business. Webber blamed one of his department heads for the foulup, an explanation Trujillo did not accept. The statue in 2024 was placed in the New Mexico History Museum. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vigil Coppler's loss to Webber in 2021 came in a three-way election with anemic turnout. Webber topped Vigil Coppler 55% to 35% in a race that drew 18,161 voters. Turnout was higher in Santa Fe's 1994 mayoral election, when the city had 23,000 fewer residents. It didn't take the second coming of Jimmy the Greek to predict Webber would win in 2021. He had more than three times as much money as Vigil Coppler. A more significant issue was Vigil Coppler did not offer a detailed plan for improving city operations. Criticizing Webber's failures wasn't enough to persuade voters to make a change, especially because he had ample resources to go on the attack. Trujillo backed Vigil Coppler in 2021. They might be opponents this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With Santa Fe's silly system of ranked-choice voting, candidates often are afraid to criticize the opposition. They don't want to offend someone and risk losing second-place and third-place votes. Politicians become homogeneous, predictable and dull. This year might be different. Whether Webber runs or retires, he will wear a bull's-eye in the mayoral campaign. Candidates have a harvest of truthful material to work with, beginning with Webber twice choosing unqualified political insiders as city manager. Negative campaigning, though, will only take city politicians so far. If there's a breakout candidate, it will be someone with particulars on everything from hiring capable administrators to getting the police department fully staffed to fixing pothole-filled streets that haven't been serviced in years. Being mayor is a dirty job. A lot of people want it or claim they do. Santa Fe, city in a tailspin, needs an organizer, a workaholic and someone who doesn't listen to the same 10 or 15 people all the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I'm not sure any mayoral candidate will meet those qualifications. An even bigger question mark is whether people fired up today about a regime change will bother voting in November. Ringside Seat is an opinion column about people, politics and news. Contact Milan Simonich at msimonich@sfnewmexican.com or 505-986-3080. By Tom Bergin LONDON (Reuters) - When the deadly Grenfell Tower blaze in 2017 led to revelations that high-rise public housing buildings across Britain were wrapped in flammable cladding, the government vowed the building contractors responsible would pay for their negligence. Seven years on, contractors who fitted cladding panels that didn't meet fire-safety standards in place when installed have largely escaped financial liability, according to a Reuters review of more than 100 buildings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cladding is a skin of insulating materials applied to the walls of a new or existing building to improve its thermal performance. The Grenfell Tower blaze, which killed 72 people, raised public awareness that thousands of buildings in the UK were clad in flammable materials. To quickly tackle the problem, the British government put up much of the money to allow the replacement of flammable cladding on subsidized public housing. Then, to recoup the taxpayer money spent, the housing ministry said it would work with the buildings owners to encourage legal claims against contractors who installed defective cladding. Under UK law, the owner of a property that has been refurbished in a way that doesn't meet building regulations in place at the time, can sue the contractors and designers responsible, and in some cases the manufacturer of the materials used, for the costs of remediation. The Reuters review identified 103 public housing buildings, owned by 26 local councils and not-for-profit housing associations, which had cladding of a type deemed to be non-compliant by the government, the courts or the public inquiry into the Grenfell fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Only five of the 26 owners - responsible for 25 of the 103 buildings - said they had sought some compensation from the companies that installed their flammable cladding. Three were successful in recovering some money while two are still in mediation with contractors in cases that haven't reached court. The total money recovered comprised just 13% of the over 260 million pounds ($325 million) it cost to reclad the 103 buildings, Reuters found. Four lawyers who have represented both building owners and contractors in post-Grenfell cladding cases told Reuters that the rules of the funds the government created to disburse money for remediation inadvertently created disincentives to sue errant builders. If public housing bodies win litigation against contractors, the proceeds must be given to the government, under the rules, while the legal costs of a losing battle have to be shouldered alone. The National Housing Federation, which represents social housing bodies across Britain, said the government could have increased the number of claims by covering litigation costs and providing legal guidance. Reuters found no evidence of a deliberate plan by the government to discourage compensation claims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said its national recladding scheme prioritised rapid removal of dangerous cladding over the recovery of costs from contractors. It declined to comment on the criticism that its rules disincentivized lawsuits against those responsible or answer questions about the level of claims against construction firms. It also didn't comment on whether it would amend the rules of its cladding schemes to facilitate more claims to help recoup taxpayer funds. The Reuters analysis is the first broad review of the extent to which contractors have contributed to the recladding of public housing buildings to which they attached non-compliant cladding, and reveals how few cases have been brought against contractors. Giles Grover, co-lead of the End Our Cladding Scandal campaign, which comprises groups representing tenants affected by the national crisis, said the low number of compensation claims identified by Reuters came as a disappointment. "It's frustrating that contractors have not paid to fix these blocks, despite all the promises from the government that it would make them pay," he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NATIONWIDE SCANDAL The Grenfell disaster in Kensington killed dozens of residents when the building's plastic-filled exterior panels turned a small fire in one apartment into an inferno that consumed the 24-storey high rise in West London. The government said in 2017 the panels used did not comply with the regulations in place when installed. The official inquiry, which published its final report in September, agreed and noted that none of the companies responsible even argued that the cladding met the regulatory requirements. After the fire, inspections by local councils and housing associations, which provide subsidized housing to lower-income families, found that similar panels, and other forms of cladding that didn't meet fire regulations, had been installed on buildings across the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over 700 public housing buildings had their cladding replaced following the Grenfell disaster, while about 1,800 still need to be made safe, the government's spending watchdog said in November. The total cost of remediation will exceed 4 billion pounds, according to government figures. The watchdog noted that as the public housing owners don't have the cash available, the government may be on the hook for the bill. The alternative to public money being used to pay for the remediation is for the owners to sue the building contractors, designers or manufacturers responsible for the original cladding, said Chris Leadbetter, a lawyer at Clyde & Co. which has defended building contractors in dozens of cladding cases. Reuters identified buildings in need of recladding using council statements, media reports, social media posts and other sources. Reuters then established whether the original cladding was compliant when installed using statutory financial accounts, satellite imagery, planning documents, freedom of information requests, minutes of local council meetings and discussions with dozens of lawyers, housing groups and local councils. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Suzannah Nichol, chief executive of Build UK, which represents building companies, said the industry accepted that non-compliant cladding should not have been installed but said contractors did not have the financial strength to cover all the costs of remediation alone. She said others including designers and product manufacturers were partly to blame and so, should share the financial burden. "I don't think any business is going to step up and pay for something if it's not confident that it's accountable," she added. Construction firms responsible for the non-compliant cladding identified by Reuters, on the 103 public housing buildings reviewed, included British-based companies Willmott Dixon and Alumet, Paris-listed Bouygues SA and United Living, which is owned by U.S. private equity group Apollo. Willmott Dixon, Bouygues and Apollo declined to comment on cladding contracts while Alumet didn't respond to queries. 'HUGE DISINCENTIVE' TO SUE Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most public housing providers declined to outline their reasons for pursuing or not pursuing cases. But the rules of the cladding remediation funds the government set up following the Grenfell disaster offer an answer, according to the National Housing Federation and lawyers interviewed. The government established the first of its funds in 2018 to ensure cash-strapped public housing owners could make their buildings safe as fast as possible. The government said it expected fund recipients to pursue reasonable cases against contractors and repay the government with any compensation received. The oldest fund, created in 2018, has so far handed out 300 million pounds of taxpayer money to councils and housing associations, official data show. This fund has received less than a million pounds back as a result of compensation claims, according to a Freedom of Information request. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In one case, Sheffield Council decided against suing London-listed Morgan Sindall, which the council said installed non-compliant polyethylene core panels - like the ones used at Grenfell - on its Hanover Tower building. The council said in a 2020 report that there might be "a public interest" in establishing the facts in court, but that since the government had already covered the costs of recladding, spending money on what would likely be expensive litigation was not in council taxpayers' interests. Eric Johnstone, legal director at Brodies solicitors in Edinburgh, said the fact the government didnt fund litigation but wanted to collect the proceeds of any litigation created a "huge disincentive" for social housing providers to sue. Morgan Sindall told Reuters it didn't believe it had any liability regarding Hanover Tower, without elaborating. Sheffield declined to comment on the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just three of the 26 building owners reviewed by Reuters said they had actually received compensation from contractors in respect of cladding claims. The first, Newport City Homes Housing Association in south Wales, initiated its claim before the government established its first cladding fund. Newport City Homes sought the cost of making three buildings safe from building contractor Wates Group, which had installed polyethylene core panels as part of a 2013 refurbishment. The housing association received a 4-million-pound settlement from Wates without even going to court, its accounts show. Wates said it did not knowingly install non-compliant products. It declined to answer questions about Newport or any of the 23 other high rise buildings where Reuters found the company installed polyethylene-core cladding panels. John Cawthorne, a former firefighter who has lived in Hanover Tower in Sheffield for 33 years, told Reuters he was furious that builders who installed non-compliant cladding on blocks like his across the country weren't being held to account. Cawthorne said tenants were haunted by the fact that they could have died as easily as the victims of Grenfell. "I live on the 15th floor of this building. I'm right on top," the 68-year-old said. "The same thing could have happened here. There's no question about that. We could have all died." (Reporting by Tom Bergin; Editing by Pravin Char) By Sarah N. Lynch WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Republican President-elect Donald Trump has promised to grant clemency to at least some of his supporters who stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021 in a failed bid to block Congress from certifying President Joe Biden's 2020 election victory. Trump has said he expects to begin doing so shortly after he is sworn in to office on Jan. 20, but has not been specific about how many of the more than 1,580 people charged in the attack could be granted clemency. Here is what you need to know. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WHICH JAN. 6 DEFENDANTS COULD BE GRANTED CLEMENCY? Trump has sent mixed messages about who might get clemency. At times he has suggested "many" will, though he has also signaled there could be exceptions for those who "got out of control." "I expect he will be very quick and very broad in what he does," said John Pierce, a defense attorney who has represented more than 50 of the Jan. 6 defendants. "If he does not issue essentially a blanket pardon on day 1, I think he will face a lot of backlash." MISDEMEANOR OFFENDERS The largest category of Jan. 6 offenders who legal experts believe are most likely to be issued pardons are the people who were charged with misdemeanor offenses such as trespassing or parading on Capitol grounds, but were not accused of any violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some high-profile defendants who faced only misdemeanor charges include Cowboys for Trump founder and former Republican elected official Couy Griffin of New Mexico, and Rebecca Lavrenz, nicknamed the "J6 Praying Grandma" whom Trump has said was "unfairly targeted by Crooked Joe Biden's DOJ." In theory, Trump could issue a blanket pardon to cover all Jan. 6 defendants who were charged or convicted of misdemeanors. VIOLENT OFFENDERS More than 170 people were charged with using a deadly weapon or injuring police in the Jan. 6 attack. That group includes Julian Khater, who was sentenced to more than six years in prison for carrying out a pepper-spray attack on Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick and two others. Sicknick died the next day, and a medical examiner attributed his death to natural causes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Legal experts say those offenders may have a harder time winning clemency. SEDITIOUS CONSPIRACY AND ALLEGED LEADERS The murkiest category of defendants who could win clemency from Trump are those who were convicted of serious crimes such as seditious conspiracy, but were not necessarily accused of violence. This would include defendants including Oath Keepers Founder Stewart Rhodes and former Proud Boys chairman Enrique Tarrio. Neither Rhodes nor Tarrio entered the Capitol on the day of the attack, but they inspired their members with violent rhetoric and juries convicted them of plotting to overthrow the government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement James Lee Bright, one of Rhodes' former defense attorneys, said he believes his ex-client should be treated as a non-violent offender when it comes to weighing potential pardons. "He never had a weapon. He never gave an order. He never touched an officer. He never went in the Rotunda," Bright said. WHAT CLEMENCY ACTIONS COULD TRUMP TAKE? Presidents have broad clemency powers. The most well-known type of clemency is a pardon, which typically restores certain civil rights to a convicted felon such as the right to vote and to bear arms. Pardons would still be beneficial to defendants who are already out of prison after serving their sentence, such as Jacob Chansley, nicknamed "the QAnon Shaman" who became the face of the attack after entering the Capitol wearing face paint and a furry horned hat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To date, the Justice Department said more than 700 defendants have either completed their prison terms or were never sentenced to incarceration. Presidents can also grant amnesty, a type of pardon that is extended more broadly to an entire class of people for certain offenses. Another option Trump could also consider is granting commutations, rather than pardons, to some of the Jan. 6 offenders. A commutation reduces a person's sentence, but does not forgive the crime. HOW LONG WOULD IT TAKE FOR RELEASE FROM CUSTODY AFTER A PARDON OR COMMUTATION? While individual inmates can be released from custody on the same day a pardon is granted, larger-scale clemency actions by a president can take more time to implement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That was the case in December, when Biden in a new single-day record issued nearly 1,500 commutations. Biden did not fully commute their sentences, meaning those defendants will still be required to comply with other terms such as paying restitution or being monitored by a probation officer. Knowing it would take time and manpower to process so many individuals, the White House gave the Bureau of Prisons 10 days to complete the task. Since the Jan. 20 Inauguration Day is a federal holiday and the Bureau of Prisons offices are closed, it will not be able to start processing any of Trump's clemency orders until the following day. (Reporting by Sarah N. Lynch; Editing by Scott Malone and Bill Berkrot) NORTH OLMSTED, Ohio (WJW) The North Olmsted Police Department is ramping up enforcement in school zones after an increase in complaints regarding speeding and crosswalk violations. In a statement posted on social media, the department reminded drivers that school zones have a 20-mph speed limit when children are present, including when buses are loading or unloading. Flashing yellow lights often indicate that a school zone is active, but police stress that drivers must remain vigilant and adjust their speed accordingly. Snow Day Calculator: Will schools be closed? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crosswalks are clearly marked, and you are required to yield to pedestrians, the department wrote. There are crossing guards at many of our schools, so theres really no excuse for not following the rules. Were asking drivers to take an extra moment to slow down and pay attention, the department said. Nobody wants to see a child hurt because someone was in too much of a rush or distracted behind the wheel. Apartment building in Strongsville catches fire North Olmsted Police encourage drivers to remain focused, avoid using phones, and be extra cautious in areas with heavy foot traffic from students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The department also reminded drivers that these extra enforcement efforts are in place to ensure everyones safety. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. President-elect Donald Trump won Wisconsin by nearly 30,000 votes after losing the state four years ago by some 20,000 votes, but did he really win 18-24-year-olds in the state? There have been a lot of different takes on how Trump took the state over Vice President Kamala Harris, but one in particular caught our eye: Trump won 18-24 year olds in Wisconsin, according to a Dec. 1, 2024, X post from Luc J. Gagnon@LakePoliticsYT. Gagnon, according to his profile, is a progressive Republican and ballot chaser for Turning Point Action and Republican Party of Milwaukee County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The claim piqued PolitiFact Wisconsins interest because four years earlier, in 2020, in Wisconsin, 14% of all votes cast came from young voters, ages 18-29. Of these, 58% supported Joe Biden, while 39% backed Donald Trump, according to the CIRCLE, which also estimated that young people turned out at a higher rate in 2020 than in 2016. The impact of that demographic, especially youth of colors support for Biden, was decisive in races across the country, according to the CIRCLE (the Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement), which describes itself as a non-partisan, independent research organization focused on youth civic engagement. In his post Gagnon included a table showing Trump winning 50% of the 18-24 year old vote in Wisconsin, while Harris received 48%. Gagnon did not provide a source for his figures, and attempts to reach him for comment were not successful. However, a quick Google search finds that the figures originate from a Nov. 19, 2024, CNN exit poll. Gagnons social media post garnered 80.9K views and 2.1K likes on X. Thus, we are attributing the claim to social media for purposes of this fact check. Elections experts weigh in Charles Franklin, director of the Marquette Law School Poll, noting the figures were from CNN exit polling, pointed out that the post skipped the first age table for Wisconsin voters, which looks at a slightly different demographic: 18-to-29-year-old Wisconsin voters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A closer look at that group shows Harris at 49% and Trump at 48%. The post instead goes for the narrower second one, 18-24, which indeed had Trump at 50% and Harris at 48%. Franklin also pointed out that there is a quite different result from the data provided by AP-Votecast, which is used by Fox News. That data show a strong Harris win among 18-29-year-olds -- 61% to 38% -- but did not provide a breakdown for 18-24 year olds. Which of these is right is difficult to know, Franklin said in an email. Exit polls and the AP Votecast, are attempts to capture voter behavior at the moment of the election, but like all polls they are subject to sampling variability and to non-response issues. For small groups of the electorate (9% to 14% in this case in both polls) the potential for both sampling variation and non-response issues is greater than for larger groups. In other words, the smaller the group examined, the greater the margin of error. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NORC is a nonprofit research organization at the University of Chicago that conducts a survey used by the Associated Press and Fox News under the brand AP VoteCast, which debuted in 2018. NBC News in explaining how exit polls work, says that since 2003, Edison Research, a firm that specializes in collecting election data, has conducted exit polls on behalf of the National Election Pool. The NEP is a consortium of media networks ABC, CBS, CNN and NBC News that pools together resources for one collective vote count and exit poll operation. In the coming weeks and months there will be surveys from shortly after the election that are matched to the state voter files to give a measure of people who actually voted in the election, and their survey responses, Franklin said. Barry C. Burden, University of Wisconsin-Madison professor of political science and director of the universitys Elections Research Center, said there is not sufficiently reliable data to conclude which candidate got more votes among young people or any other age group in Wisconsin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Exit polls such as the one Gagnon references are the most immediate source for understanding how groups voted in the election, so they are widely used to explore voting patterns, Burden said in an email. But exit polls are known to have systematic errors, especially for estimating vote choices in subgroups such as 18-24 year olds, who make up a small share of the sample and can be a difficult group to survey. There is also a margin of error to consider, as in any other survey. As a result, it is not reasonable to conclude at this point that Trump won over young voters in Wisconsin. Burden said more high-quality data analysis will not emerge until early 2025 because it simply takes time to gather data in more scientific surveys or to use official state voter data to estimate how individuals voted. At most we can conclude from exit polls that the vote choices of young voters in Wisconsin were probably more evenly divided between the parties than in recent elections, Burden said. What about any non-poll evidence on the matter? A Wisconsin Public Radio report also noted that Trump made big gains in voting wards around universities, according to data compiled by Marquette University researcher John Johnson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For example, WPR said, in four wards around the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, Biden beat Trump by over 1,000 votes in 2020. This year, with over 4,000 votes cast, Harris eked out a mere 77-vote win. Also, WPR reported, Trump more than doubled his vote count in seven student-populated wards around Marquette University. He diminished Democrats winning margin there from 62% to 38%. Half true Our ruling A social media post said Trump won 18-24 year olds in Wisconsin. A CNN exit poll does indeed show Trump winning that age group over Harris 50% to 48%. The CNN poll does show that, but the picture is muddier when you look at other polls, slightly wider groups and consider that the polls themselves have a wide margin of error for what amounts to a small slice of the electorate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indeed, that same poll shows a different outcome when the demographic range is widened to ages 18-29, which shows Harris over Trump 49% to 48%. And looking at AP Votecast figures quoted by Fox News, Harris won 18-29-year-old Wisconsin voters at 61% while Trump received 38% of that demographic. Elections experts say exit polls are known to have systematic errors, and more time is needed for high quality data analysis to determine a better understanding of how Wisconsins young people voted in the election. Still, those polls are the best information we have at this time and the post quoted the poll accurately. For a statement that is partially accurate but leaves out important details or takes things out of context, we rate the post as Half True. Sources X, Luc J. Gagnon, Trump won 18-24 year olds in Wisconsin, Dec. 1, 2024 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement John Johnson, Marquette University Law School, How Wisconsin Split Its Ticket Once Again, Nov. 6, 2024 Email, Charles Franklin, Dec. 10, 2024 Email, Barry Burden, Dec. 10, 2024 Associated Press, Election results, Wisconsin President, updated Dec. 5, 2024. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel AP declares Biden winner in Wisconsin with 20,000 vote margin, Nov. 4, 2020. CNN Election 2024: Exit Polls. Wisconsin, Nov. 19, 2024 Fox News Democracy 24, 2024 Wisconsin Election Results, updated Dec. 10, 2024 Wisconsin Public Radio Trump made big gains on Wisconsins college campuses in 2024 election, Nov. 12, 2024 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NBC News How exit polls work and how NBC News uses them on election night, Oct. 29, 2024WISN-12 Wisconsin's youth vote shows gender divide in exit polls, Nov. 7, 2024. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Exit poll does indeed show Trump winning that age group over Harris 50% to 48%. Claim: President-elect Donald Trump promised to pardon rioters who were convicted after storming the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Rating: Rating: True Context: Trump said on many occasions he would pardon the rioters, without offering specifics. In 2023, he said he was "inclined to pardon many of them," though not all. He added he likely would not pardon a few who "got out of control." The fourth anniversary of the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol has renewed attention on President-elect Donald Trump's comments about pardoning many of the people convicted of criminal charges in relation to the deadly riot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Jan. 6, 2025, X post claimed: "Donald Trump will be certified by Congress on January 6th as President and he's gonna pardon the Jan 6 rioters." (X user @AdviceFromLouis) It's true that Trump on several occasions has promised to pardon Capitol rioters, though not necessarily all 1,500 people charged with crimes related to the attack. As such, we rate this claim as true. Below, we highlight some of his many statements on the issue. Previous Statements by Trump In a December 2024 interview with NBC, Trump said he would "most likely" issue the pardons "very quickly" after assuming the presidential office on Jan. 20, 2025. Before that, on Dec. 1, 2024, after Biden announced he had pardoned his son Hunter Biden, Trump posted on his social media app, Truth Social: "Does the Pardon given by Joe to Hunter include the J-6 Hostages, who have now been imprisoned for years? Such an abuse and miscarriage of Justice!" (By "Hostages," he meant those imprisoned after being convicted of crimes related to the attack on the Capitol.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the National Association of Black Journalists convention in July 2024, when Trump was asked whether he would pardon the rioters who attacked police officers, he said, "Absolutely." He then added, "If they were innocent, I would pardon them," to which the journalist said, "They were convicted." Trump replied, "They were convicted by a very tough system." The exchange can be seen at the 32:40 mark of this video of the event: On Mar. 11, 2024, Trump wrote on Truth Social: "My first acts as your next President will be to Close the Border, DRILL, BABY, DRILL, and Free the January 6 Hostages being wrongfully imprisoned!" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On May 11, 2023, during a CNN town hall (transcript below), Trump answered questions about pardoning the rioters, some of whom were members of the Proud Boys, a white supremacist group. Trump said he would pardon many of the rioters and would have to "look" at some of the cases because they did not get a "fair trial" (emphasis ours): BEYER: My question to you is: Will you pardon the Jan. 6 rioters who were convicted of federal offenses? TRUMP: I am inclined to pardon many of them. I can't say for every single one because a couple of them, probably, they got out of control. But, you know, when you look at Antifa, what they've done to Portland, and if you look at Antifa, look at what they've done to Minneapolis and so many other so many other places, look at what they did to Seattle. And BLM BLM, many people were killed. These people I'm not trying to justify anything, but you have two standards of justice in this country, and what they've done and I love that question because what they've done to see many people is nothing nothing. And then what they've done to these people, they've persecuted these people. And yeah, my answer is I am most likely if I get in, I will most likely I would say it will be a large portion of them. You know, they did a very And it'll be very early on. And they're living in hell right now. [] COLLINS: Mr. President, one of the people who was convicted was a former policeman but he was convicted of attacking a police officer, I should note. But when you said you are considering pardoning a large portion of those charged with crimes on Jan. 6, does that include the four Proud Boys members who were charged and convicted of seditious conspiracy? TRUMP: I don't know. I'll have to look at their case, but I will say in Washington, D.C., you cannot get a fair trial, you cannot. Just like in New York City, you can't get a fair trial either. Trump had spoken in support of the rioters even in 2022. During a rally that January in Conroe, Texas, before he officially announced he would be running for president again, Trump said, "Another thing we'll do, and so many people have been asking me about it, if I run and if I win, we will treat those people from Jan. 6 fairly. We will treat them fairly. And if it requires pardons we will give them pardons. Because they are being treated so unfairly." In statements about the rioters, Trump repeatedly referred to those convicted and imprisoned as "hostages." Trump has not, however, given specifics about what criteria he would use to decide whom to pardon. Sources: "Capitol Rioters' Families Draw Hope from Trump's Promise of Pardons." BBC, 5 Apr. 2024. www.bbc.com, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-68632188. Accessed 4 Dec. 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "FULL VIDEO: Trump Answers Questions at Black Journalists' Convention NABJ in Chicago ." YouTube, KTVU, 31 July 2024, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-ihCI_lApA. Accessed 4 Dec. 2024. Ibrahim, Nur. "Biden Repeatedly Said He Would Not Pardon His Son, Hunter." Snopes, 3 Dec. 2024, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/biden-pardons-son-hunter/. Accessed 4 Dec. 2024. Lee, Jessica. "Who Are the Proud Boys Trump Told To 'Stand Back and Stand By'?" Snopes, 7 Oct. 2020, https://www.snopes.com//news/2020/10/07/proud-boys-explained/. Accessed 4 Dec. 2024. "READ: Transcript of CNN's Town Hall with Former President Donald Trump." CNN, 11 May 2023, https://www.cnn.com/2023/05/11/politics/transcript-cnn-town-hall-trump/index.html. Accessed 4 Dec. 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Trump Says He Would Pardon Jan. 6 Rioters If He Runs and Wins." Reuters, 30 Jan. 2022. www.reuters.com, https://www.reuters.com/world/us/trump-says-he-would-pardon-jan-6-rioters-if-he-runs-wins-2022-01-30/. Accessed 4 Dec. 2024. "US Capitol Riots: What Happened and Who Has Been Punished?" BBC, 2 Aug. 2022. www.bbc.com, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-60265900. Accessed 4 Dec. 2024. PARIS (Reuters) -Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy is standing trial over accusations he used Libyan cash to fund his 2007 presidential campaign, one of several legal battles the politician who once bestrode the world stage has faced over the past decade. Sarkozy, who is still an influential behind-the-scenes player in French politics, faces charges of corruption and illegal financing and risks up to 10 years in prison if found guilty. He has always denied the allegations. Below are the legal challenges Sarkozy has faced: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LIBYAN CAMPAIGN CASH Prosecutors have investigated allegations that late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi sent Sarkozy's successful 2007 campaign millions of euros in cash, allegations that were first made by one of Gaddafi's sons. Five months after Sarkozy was elected president, Gaddafi visited him in Paris, on his first state visit to a Western capital in decades. The Libyan leader pitched a Bedouin-style tent near the Elysee Palace. Later, Sarkozy became one of the chief advocates of the NATO-led campaign against Gaddafi that resulted in the dictator's overthrow and killing by rebels in 2011. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of his main accusers, Franco-Lebanese businessman Ziad Takieddine, who has described himself as a "middleman in the shadows", withdrew his account in 2020. Sarkozy's lawyers call the case against him a "fabrication". 'WIRETAPPING AFFAIR' France's highest court on Dec. 18 upheld a conviction ruling against Sarkozy for corruption and influence peddling, ordering him to wear an electronic tag for a year a first for a former head of state. Sarkozy was found guilty of conspiring to secure a plum job in Monaco for a judge in return for inside information about an inquiry into allegations he had accepted illegal payments from L'Oreal heiress Liliane Bettencourt for his 2007 campaign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sarkozy will bring the case to the European Court for Human Rights, his lawyer has said. Sarkozy's defence team argue it was illegal to use wiretapped phone conversations made between him and his lawyer - under a false identity - as proof to convict him, and that the judge never got the Monaco job. An appeal to the European court does not suspend the sentence and Sarkozy will have to wear the electronic tag once a post-sentencing judge has seen him. 'BYGMALION AFFAIR' Sarkozy's conviction of illegal campaign financing over his failed 2012 re-election bid was confirmed by an appeals court on Feb. 14, 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He has appealed to the country's top court, which is expected to rule over the course of 2025. Sarkozy was sentenced to a one-year prison sentence, half of which suspended. He has always denied accusations that his conservative party, then known as the UMP, worked with a public relations firm named Bygmalion to hide the true cost of his campaign - marked by lavish show events previously unseen in French politics. During his trial, Sarkozy put the blame on some members of his campaign team: "I didn't choose any supplier, I didn't sign any quotation, any invoice," he told the court. France sets strict limits on campaign spending. Prosecutors said Sarkozy spent 42.8 million euros ($45.9 million) on his 2012 campaign, almost double the permitted amount. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RUSSIA Financial prosecutors in early 2021 opened a preliminary investigation into alleged influence-peddling related to activities undertaken by Sarkozy in Russia seven years after he left office. (Compiled by Michel Rose; edited by Richard Lough and Angus MacSwan) COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) Theres nothing like the excitement and anticipation of rolling out of bed, rushing to the TV and waiting, hoping to see your school on the rolling list of snow closures and delays. Central Ohio school districts are scheduled to return this week amid winter weather, and students across the area will be checking to see if their winter breaks are extended. Local school districts said safety is the number one concern when determining if there will be a snow day. Under Ohio law, schools have a set number of hours they must be in session for: 910 hours for students in grades one through six, and 1,001 hours for students in grades seven through 12. According to local school districts, only superintendents are legally allowed to close schools for weather. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement $450K for teacher who refused to use student pronouns New Albany-Plain Communications Director Patrick Gallaway said decision making starts early when there are weather concerns. He said the district superintendent and transportation coordinator connect about conditions around 3 a.m., and that they physically go drive through the district to help make their decision. For me it becomes a game of dominoes eventually, once some of the big districts call it a lot of others start to go as well, Gallaway said. South-Western City Schools is the second-largest district in the area, and Executive Director of Communications Evan Debo said the size of the district complicates weather cancellations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While some of our neighboring districts are almost exclusively rural or suburban, SWCSD is uniquely made up of nine different zip codes that encompass both suburban and rural settings that impact morning commutes for students, staff and families, Debo said. Based on the size of our district, different schools may see different conditions based on where they are located which further impacts our evaluation of conditions. IH8OH1O? See rejected license plates for 2024 Spanning 119 square miles, SWCSD leaders consider road conditions, weather projections, building and property conditions, temperature and wind chill when debating closures, Debo said. SWCSD, like Columbus City Schools, tries to release their decision before 5:30 a.m. Executive Director of Communications and Outreach for Reynoldsburg City Schools Valerie Wunder said Reynoldsburg schools discuss closures with other districts, but the final decision is routed in bus routes and safe transportation. Gallaway said New Albany-Plain Superintendent Michael Sawyers also checks in with the superintendents of neighboring districts to see what they may be planning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most central Ohio districts bus their students and rely on conversations with their transportation staff to make safe closure decisions. Westerville City Schools Executive Director of Communications Melanie Amato said although Westerville does not base decisions on closures on the actions of neighboring districts, other schools in the area may have to close if Westerville chooses too, as some nearby districts rely on Westerville busing services. Grandview Heights and Bexley do not bus their students to school, so their decisions are not reliant on school bus accessibility. Bexley Public Information Officer Carol Taylor said a primary consideration for Bexley is the many students who walk to school, and Bexley policy generally closes schools when the weather is -15 degrees Fahrenheit or hits a sustained wind chill of-22 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. Whitehall Director of Communications Amanda Isenberg said although there are lots of factors to consider in terms of closing schools, its also important to think of what school closures can mean outside of education. Isenberg said schools provide warmth, safety, meals, supervision and structure for families, which may be compromised or difficult for families when faced with a sudden change in schedule. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Former Secretary of State Bill Gardner, Rep. Rick Ladd, R-Haverhill, and Department of Education Commissioner Frank Edelblut members of the Commission on New Hampshire Civics deliberate over how best to teach lofty constitutional concepts to elementary school students on Dec. 16, 2024. (Ethan DeWitt | New Hampshire Bulletin) For the group gathered around a conference table last month, the goal was a lofty one: design a curriculum to teach first graders the basics of civics and constitutional law. But the slide of the draft lesson projected before the members of the Commission on New Hampshire Civics displayed a more elemental question: How do you treat people fairly? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A follow-up slide proposed an answer. When we treat people fairly, everyone gets a share. It continued: Mel counts out enough pencils for everyone in the class. Every student will get a pencil. Department of Education Commissioner Frank Edelblut cleared his throat. This is the one that really set me off here, he said to the group. I think that might be antithetical to the very thing that were trying to accomplish here. Designing a just system of law, Edelblut continued, is not the same as splitting a birthday cake evenly or parceling out pencils. The idea of fairness in this context of (the New Hampshire) constitution and rule of law is that everyones treated fairly under the law, not that everybody gets an equal part, he said. Thats a different form of government, I think. The comments set off 10 minutes of discussion among the members, who range from teachers to historians to former Secretary of State Bill Gardner. And they underscored one of the commissions challenges: When explaining the purpose of the New Hampshire Constitution to 7-year-olds, it can be difficult to exclude the philosophies of adults. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Created by the 2023 state budget amendment bill, the commission is charged with designing a textbook and teaching curriculum specifically designed for New Hampshire students and teachers to help them explore the history, heritage, and principles of the New Hampshire Constitution and the government it established. The commission comes as part of a surge of legislation in recent years designed to improve New Hampshire students understanding of civics. In 2023, Gov. Chris Sununu signed Senate Bill 216, which requires that all New Hampshire middle and high schools include a half-year of instruction on civics, and for high school students to pass that course in order to graduate. The Department of Education also entered into a $1 million contract in April 2023 with Discovery Education to provide an online learning platform as a resource for New Hampshire schools. The state commissions curriculum will be available to schools as a voluntary resource and online for anyone to view and use. The lessons are designed to be implemented in any class where they might be useful, such as a social studies class or history class. And they wont need approval by the State Board of Education or by the Department of Education. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the statute, the commission has until August to finish creating its curriculum. But the commissions chairman, Ovide Lamontagne, a lawyer and former Republican gubernatorial nominee, hopes the body will finish the work earlier. During one of those sessions in December, members spent two hours reviewing the draft lesson plans and deliberating fundamental principles. Dave Alcox, a former Milford High School social studies teacher who taught civics, said he used to explain the difference between equality of opportunity and equality of outcome through the right to legal representation. Its equal protection to have an attorney. Its a floor, he said. Everybody has the right to an attorney. Depending on who you get after that, thats the equality of condition part. Like, you can have a dream team, or you can have a public defender. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Distilling that concept down to a first-grade level was a greater leap. Rep. Rick Ladd, a Haverhill Republican and the chairman of the House Education Funding Committee, invoked December birthdays. I thought of my two grandchildren right now: one born on Pearl Harbor Day, the other one born on the 20th of December, he said. And theyre saying, We dont have an equal opportunity to have a grand party like everybody else because (of) Christmas. Gardner recalled his own elementary school education. When I was in school, we had five rows 40 kids and the smartest were in the first seats. Is that action fair? What makes an action fair? Its fair that they all get the same questions on the test. Alcox agreed. The hard part at the end of the day is that fairness isnt in the constitution, but we try to attach it to justice, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The group agreed to use a different illustrative example than the distribution of pencils. Other parts of the first-grade lesson centered around the very idea of rules. Why are our school rules fair and helpful? one slide asked, begging the question somewhat. Why is raising our hands a helpful rule? Edelblut had some quibbles, arguing the curriculum was too focused on whether the rules themselves were valid. Instead, he said, it should be about whether those rules are fairly applied. What weve turned it into is kids adjudicating whether or not a rule is fair or not fair, he said. And Rep. Mike Moffett, a Loudon Republican, said the lesson plan should also introduce the role punishment plays in the adherence to rules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The commission has been designing different curricula for each grade from first to 12th, gradually increasing the difficulty level. Middle school students learn about different power structures of government, from the select board at the local level to the governors office, and about the legislative process. What is an emergency the governor can help support? one middle school lesson asks. Draw a picture. High schoolers get more nuanced lessons. What makes the New Hampshire Constitution unique? one slide prompted. (Two answers, the commission decided, are Article 4, which guarantees the right of conscience, and Article 10, which preserves the right of revolution against the state government when all other means of redress are ineffectual.) For Lamontagne, who has helped teach constitutional law at Saint Anselm College, the material itself is boundlessly interesting. The challenge for the commission is tailoring it to younger learners. The secret, he said, is nailing down the basic questions of society. People take it for granted, but who decides that we have to stop at a red light, as opposed to a green light? he said in an interview. I mean, who makes that decision? The family of a man who was hurt in the New Orleans terrorist attack is sharing new details on the horrific incident. Jeremi Sensky lives in Pennsylvania but also has ties to Central Florida. He is one of the dozens of people who were hurt during the attack early New Years Day on Bourbon Street. His daughter, Haven Sensky, spoke with Channel 9 and described the moment when she and her family found out her dad was alive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read: New Orleans mourns victims of truck attack with tearful vigil and celebration of life It was extremely traumatic, Haven Sensky said. She said her father, whos been paraplegic 1999, was struck by the driver during the driver during the attack and could not do anything to get out of the way. The family heard about the incident but didnt know if Jeremy was even alive until hours later. Read: Man behind New Years attack visited New Orleans before, recorded video with smart glasses, FBI says The family trip through the south was supposed to end in Sanford, where the Sunskeys have a home and where theyve spent their winter for years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Haven says both of her dads legs were shattered in the incident. But because of his preexisting condition, he couldnt feel anything. Read: Does downtown Orlando need more security infrastructure after New Orleans attack Instead, he just remained quiet and waited for help while terror unraveled around him. The family has started a GoFundMe account to help raise money for his medical expenses. 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. Austrian President Alexander van der Bellen has officially tasked the far-right Freedom Party of Austria (FPO) with forming a government. Van der Bellen made the announcement at a press conference in Vienna on Monday after a meeting with FPO leader Herbert Kickl. The way was cleared for the FPO potentially to lead an Austrian government for the first time after Christian Stocker, the newly designated leader of the conservative Austrian People's Party (OVP), said on Sunday that his party is prepared to engage in negotiations with Kickl. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stocker was appointed by his party after Chancellor Karl Nehammer announced his resignation on Saturday following the collapse of previous coalition negotiations with centrist parties. During the conversation, Kickl assured him that he was confident of being able to fulfil the role of chancellor, van der Bellen said. "Respect for the electorate's vote requires that the president respect the majority," even if he himself might have other wishes and ideas, van der Bellen said. "I did not take this step lightly," he said. Van der Bellen and Kickl's hour-long meeting was accompanied by protests. Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in front of the presidential office to voice their opposition to the far-right taking power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FPO won the parliamentary elections in September with just under 29% of the vote. While initially no one wanted to govern with the party, the dynamic changed as Nehammer struggled to form a coalition with parties in Austria's political mainstream. Bridging differences The conservative OVP and the far-right FPO had already formed coalitions in the 2000s and between 2017 and 2019 albeit with the OVP always holding the top role of chancellor. There are still hurdles to Kickl becoming chancellor, however, namely the need for the two parties to agree on a government programme. On issues such as migration and taxes, the two parties appear to largely agree. But there are stark differences between the Moscow-friendly and eurosceptic far- right and the OVP over foreign and security policy. Budget woes Another potential point of contention is how to overcome Austria's budget crisis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There is also no common plan for overcoming the deep budget crisis," Christoph Badelt, president of the Austrian Fiscal Advisory Council, said on ORF radio. It is questionable whether a new chancellor from the FPO would want to start with unpopular austerity measures or tax increases, Badelt continued. "We all don't know what the FPO would actually be willing to do when it comes to budget consolidation," he said. Austria needs to restructure its budget to avoid EU deficit proceedings. The EU's budget rules stipulate that the annual budget deficit in EU states must not exceed 3% of gross domestic product (GDP). In addition, the debt level should not exceed 60% of GDP. The European Commission expects Austria to have a budget deficit of around 3.6% in both 2025 and 2026. The News Austrias far-right Freedom Party (FPO) has been given the task of forming Viennas next government, after talks between mainstream parties collapsed last week. Austrias President Alexander Van der Bellen on Monday met with Herbert Kickl, the FPOs leader, to give him the chance to attempt to form a government with the conservative Austrian Peoples Party (OVP). I did not take this step lightly, Van der Bellen said. I may have certain wishes, but respect for the voters dictates that I accept this majority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Austrian Freedom Party became the biggest party in parliament when it won 28.8% of the vote in elections in September last year. SIGNALS Coalition talks could take months, but are expected to succeed Sources: The New York Times, Die Presse, Kronen Zeitung, Financial Times Negotiations between the FPO and OVP could take months, but analysts told the New York Times that the talks could go more smoothly than previous efforts to form a new government. The two parties largely agree on deregulation, not introducing new taxes, and migration, a columnist wrote in Austrian newspaper Die Presse. Adding pressure on the OVP to reach an agreement is the fact that the Freedom Party could poll as high as 37% in a snap election, even as the center-right party would be expected to slump in the polls. If talks fail, a snap election is likely, and the OVPs leadership is skeptical that it could turn things around in a new round of voting, the Financial Times reported. Far-right government in Austria could complicate EUs Ukraine policy Source: Financial Times If the FPO succeeds in forming a coalition, it could complicate the European Unions policy on combating the war in Ukraine. The party opposes sanctions against Russia and has pushed for Austria to stop contributing to the EUs support for Ukraine. It has also forged closer ties with Hungarys strongman leader Viktor Orban, forming a new alliance in the European Parliament to push for peace talks with Russia. The far-right party has long been accused of close ties to the Kremlin, and signed a cooperation agreement with Vladimir Putins United Russia party in 2016, a deal that expired in 2021. The Freedom Party maintains it is the only party taking Austrias tradition of neutrality, which is enshrined in its constitution, seriously. Makenzie Huber and Seth Tupper South Dakota Searchlight As the 134th commemoration of the Wounded Knee Massacre nears, efforts to protect the massacre site and review medals awarded to participating soldiers are in limbo. After years of activism by Lakota people, the U.S. Department of Defense announced in July that the approximately 20 Medals of Honor awarded to soldiers who participated in the massacre would be subjected to a review. But there hasnt been an announcement of the review panels recommendations yet, and President Joe Bidens term ends Jan. 20 when President-elect Donald Trump takes the oath of office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The massacre occurred on Dec. 29, 1890. Lakota people were camped near Wounded Knee Creek on the Pine Ridge Reservation in southwestern South Dakota, where they were surrounded by hundreds of Army soldiers. A shot rang out while the soldiers tried to disarm the camp, and chaotic shooting ensued. Fewer than 40 soldiers were killed (some by friendly fire, according to historians), while estimates of Lakota deaths ran from 200 to 300 or more, depending on the source. After some of the bodies froze on the ground for several days, a military-led burial party dumped them into a mass grave. The politics and racism of the day influenced the Armys decision to support medals for some of the soldiers, even though Maj. Gen. Nelson Miles condemned the massacre. He led the Division of the Missouri, which included the soldiers who were responsible for the incident. I have never heard of a more brutal, cold-blooded massacre than at Wounded Knee, Miles wrote in an 1891 letter thats now held in an archive at Yale. Advocate hopeful that Biden will revoke medals Historians have noted that the records associated with some of the medals are incomplete or unclear. Oliver OJ Semans, a Rosebud Sioux tribal member who advocates for the revocation of the medals, said hes been told the review panel could not reach a consensus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He remains hopeful that President Joe Biden will revoke the medals, perhaps before or in conjunction with Sundays 134th commemoration of the massacre. That would be such a mental relief for all of those descendants of the massacre survivors, Semans said. While Biden was running for president in 2020, Semans Four Directions voter-rights advocacy group submitted written questions to the candidate, including one about the Wounded Knee medals. Biden said at the time that he supported revoking the medals. The Congressional Medal of Honor is our Nations highest award for gallantry in combat, in defense of our Nations highest ideals and principles, Biden wrote in January 2020, according to a copy of the letter provided by Semans. That this medal was awarded for the massacre of hundreds of unarmed Native Americans, including women and children, is abhorrent to those very ideals and lessens what the award represents in integrity and personal sacrifice for all others who have received it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The review panel included members from the Department of Interior. A spokesperson for that department declined to comment on the status of the review. A spokesperson for the Department of Defense said only that the review panel would provide its recommendations to the secretary of Defense, the secretary would provide recommendations to the president, and the authority to award or rescind a Medal of Honor resides with the President of the United States. Land bill caught up in dispute over Lumbee recognition Meanwhile, an effort to push the Wounded Knee Massacre Memorial and Sacred Site Act through Congress failed in November after one senator opposed the bill. The effort to protect 40 acres at the Wounded Knee Massacre site on behalf of the Oglala Sioux Tribe and Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe will have to start over after the 119th Congress begins on Jan. 3. Two years ago, the two tribes purchased 40 acres at the massacre site from a private owner. The legislation would place the land in restricted-fee status, which means it could not be sold, taxed, gifted or leased without approval by the secretary of the Department of Interior. The bill passed the House in September after Rep. Dusty Johnson, R-South Dakota, introduced it in May 2023. U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds, R-South Dakota, who introduced a Senate version of the bill in June 2023, tried to have the adopted House version considered by the Senate in November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I hope that we can come together to acknowledge this event and work to mend our history through reconciliation and mutual respect, Rounds said on the Senate floor. Although we cant rewrite this past, this act is one way to show healing and progress. Sen. Thom Tillis, R-North Carolina, took advantage of Senate rules allowing a single senator to block consideration of a bill. Tillis has opposed several tribal-related bills in an attempt to get senators to support his own bill to federally recognize the Lumbee Tribe in North Carolina. He called out the leaders of the Oglala and Cheyenne River Sioux tribes for allegedly not supporting his efforts. During a Senate floor speech, Tillis directed his comments to the people of the two tribes in South Dakota. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is not about you. This is about your leaders and their underhanded, unfair treatment of a tribal nation that deserves recognition, Tillis said. He added that the Wounded Knee bill really does need to come into law. Just not yet. Oglala and Cheyenne River Sioux tribal leaders did not respond to questions from South Dakota Searchlight on the issue. Semans said Tillis and the Lumbee were wrong to subject the Wounded Knee land protection bill to a fight over the Lumbees status. Its a terrible thing that they decided to pick one of the most horrific massacres in history to make a point about them wanting to become a federally recognized tribe, Semans said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congress recognized the Lumbee in 1956, but denied financial benefits typically associated with federal recognition, such as funding for tribal law enforcement and access to the Indian Health Service. The tribe has worked toward full recognition for decades, most recently with the North Carolina congressional delegation. Tribal nations typically receive federal recognition through an application with the Department of the Interior. President-elect Donald Trump pledged his support to the tribe in September. Some other tribal leaders question the validity of the Lumbees historical claims, according to The Associated Press. Some opponents of Lumbee recognition are concerned it could siphon funding away from existing tribes, and also have concerns that recognition would allow the Lumbee to build a casino, which would compete with other tribal casino operations in the area. The latest action on Tillis Lumbee recognition bill was its referral to the Committee on Indian Affairs after the legislation was introduced in February 2023. The body of a Michigan father who went missing while attending a family gathering over the holidays has reportedly been found. On Saturday, Jan. 4 at approximately 2 p.m. local time, 52-year-old Robert Loren Bacon's body was discovered by dive teams searching the Cass River near Heritage Park in Frankenmuth, local outlets MLive.com and WNEM reported, citing the Frankenmuth Police Department. Bacon, of Byron, Michigan, had last been seen at a family gathering at the Bavarian Inn Lodge in Frankenmuth on Friday, Dec. 27, before he was reported missing on Monday, Dec. 30, per MLive.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The outlet stated the preliminary cause of death as drowning, citing police, adding that a final determination would be made by the Saginaw County Medical Examiner's Office. The Frankenmuth Police Department, the Frankenmuth community, first responders and the Bavarian Inn Lodge extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Robert Bacon during this difficult time, police said, according to the publication. An investigation is ongoing. Related: Man Vanished from Michigan Music Festival in 2018. His Remains Were Just Found, but Cause of Death Remains Unknown Missing People in America Police appeal for Robert Loren Bacon Police appeal for Robert Loren Bacon The Frankenmuth Police Department, the Bavarian Inn Lodge and the Saginaw County Medical Examiner's Office didn't immediately respond when contacted by PEOPLE. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bacon's ex-wife, Melissa McLenna, said in a Facebook post on Sunday, Jan. 5, "I have no words to describe how we feel we are so sad I just want to say thank you to everyone that helped look for Robert thank you to all that prayed for us and that are continuing to pray for us." She previously opened up to WNEM about how the search had impacted their two daughters, ages 15 and 13. My poor kids, our kids, I dont know what to tell. They ask, Mom, have they found him yet? and I just say, No, were still looking,' she told the outlet. McLenna added that Bacon, who is a Navy veteran, also went by his middle name, Loren, and had arrived at the Dec. 27. gathering "about 6:40 p.m. [local time]." He then "went to the hotel room to change out of his shoes and slides, was going to meet our daughter down at the pool area," she added, per WNEM. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: TikToker Jiare Schneider, 31, Found Dead in the Woods by Family After Being Missing for 10 Days Missing People in America Robert Loren Bacon Robert Loren Bacon "(He) Said he had to move his car because he was on the further entrance from where their room was. From there, they have video showing him going to the fun center after leaving the hotel room, never coming back to his car. They dont have any video showing he exited the building. However, there are exits without cameras, McLenna continued, per the outlet. Our youngest daughter said, Mom, he was in a great mood. You could hear it in his voice how happy he was, she told WNEM. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. McLenna told the publication that police hadn't found anything suspicious inside Bacon's car, adding that his phone had been off since the evening he went missing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He does like nature. He likes to walk around and check things out, especially at riverbanks. Thats just his personality. I wouldnt put it past him to come outside to smoke a cigarette and walk along that river, McLenna told WNEM. Read the original article on People The man responsible for the truck attack in New Orleans on New Years Day that killed 14 people visited the city twice before and recorded video of the French Quarter with Meta smart glasses, an FBI official said Sunday. Shamsud-Din Jabbar also traveled to Cairo and Canada before the attack although it was not yet clear whether those trips were connected to the attack, Deputy Assistant Director Christopher Raia said at a news conference. Federal officials believe Jabbar, a U.S. citizen and former U.S. Army soldier, was inspired by the Islamic State militant group to carry out the attack. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Police fatally shot Jabbar, 42, during an exchange of gunfire at the scene of the deadly crash of the rented pickup truck on Bourbon Street, famous worldwide for its festive vibes in New Orleans historic French Quarter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal investigators so far believe Jabbar acted alone, but are continuing to explore his contacts. All investigative details and evidence that we have now still support that Jabbar acted alone here in New Orleans, said Raia. We have not seen any indications of an accomplice in the United States, but we are still looking into potential associates in the U.S. and outside of our borders. Lyonel Myrthil, FBI special agent in charge of the New Orleans Field Office, said Jabbar traveled to Cairo in the summer of 2023 and then to the Canadian province of Ontario a few days later. Our agents are getting answers to where he went, who he met with and how those trips may or may not tie into his actions here, Myrthil said. Suspect recorded video with smart glasses while plotting attack, the FBI says Jabbar had also traveled to New Orleans twice in the months preceding the attack, first in October and again in November. On Oct. 31, Myrthil said Jabbar used glasses from Meta, the parent company of Facebook, to record video as he rode through the French Quarter on a bicycle as he plotted this hideous attack. He said Jabbar was also in New Orleans on Nov. 10. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also wore the glasses capable of livestreaming during the attack, but Myrthil said Jabbar did not activate them. When asked about the glasses, a Meta spokesperson declined comment to The Associated Press. The FBI released Jabbars recorded video from the planning trip to New Orleans as well as video showing him placing two containers with explosive devices in the French Quarter at around 2 a.m. shortly before the attack. One of the containers, a cooler, was moved a block away by someone uninvolved with the attack, officials said. Joshua Jackson, New Orleans special agent in charge, said Jabbar privately purchased a semiautomatic rifle on Nov. 19 from an individual in a legal transaction in Arlington, Texas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This was a chance encounter, Jackson said. Theres no way this individual knew that Jabbar was radicalized or had any sort of awareness that this attack was imminent. RELATED STORIES Security a prime concern ahead of other major events Police have used vehicles and barricades to block traffic at Bourbon and Canal streets since. Other law enforcement agencies helped city officers provide extra security, said Reese Harper, a New Orleans police spokesperson. The first parade of the Carnival season leading up to Mardi Gras in March is scheduled Monday evening. New Orleans also will host the Super Bowl on Feb. 9. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a previous effort to protect the French Quarter, the city installed steel columns known as bollards to restrict vehicle access to Bourbon Street. The posts normally retract to allow deliveries to bars and restaurants. But they stopped working reliably after being gummed up by Mardi Gras beads, beer and other detritus. When New Years Eve arrived, the bollards were gone. New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell acknowledged the city remains uncertain as to whether the new bollards it is installing in the French Quarter would be able to stop a similar vehicle attack. The thorough assessment that I am asking for will determine whether they are strong enough, Cantrell said. I cant say with surety thats the case but an expert will be able to do so, and well respond accordingly. Cantrell said she requested that Homeland Security upgrade Mardi Gras to the highest Special Event Assessment Rating to receive more federal support for security and risk assessments. President Joe Biden planned to travel to New Orleans with first lady Jill Biden on Monday to grieve with the families and community members impacted by the tragic attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After signing the Social Security Fairness Act, Biden was asked Sunday by journalists what his message would be to the families he will meet. He responded, Ive been there. Theres nothing you can really say to somebody thats just had such a tragic loss, my message is going to be personal if I get to get them alone. The two explosive devices that Jabbar placed were recovered by federal officials undetonated. ATF Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson credited New Orleans police for responding quickly before the devices could be set off. He said both were equipped with receivers and a transmitter was recovered in Jabbars truck. Jabbar exited the crashed truck wearing a ballistic vest and helmet and fired at police, wounding at least two officers before he was fatally shot. Bomb-making materials were found at Jabbars home. Jackson said Jabbar appeared to have used a chemical compound known as RDX, which he said is commonly available in the U.S. He said field tests found RDX at Jabbars Houston home and they are conducting further tests on similar materials found at the New Orleans rental home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jabbar tried to burn down the rental house by setting a small fire in a hallway but the flames went out before firefighters arrived. Suspect proclaims support for Islamic State group Jabbar proclaimed support for the Islamic State militant group in online videos posted hours before he struck. It was the deadliest IS-inspired assault on U.S. soil in years, laying bare what federal officials have warned is a resurgent international terrorism threat. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas told ABCs This Week with George Stephanopoulos that the country faces not only the persistent threat of foreign terrorism but a significant increase in what we term homegrown violent extremism in recent years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The attack has prompted security concerns elsewhere in the nation. In California, for instance, military officials announced via online platform X that access has been tightened to Camp Pendleton, the largest Marine base on the West Coast with tens of thousands of active-duty service members. The announcement said all IDs are being checked for base entry, a trusted travel program is being suspended and random inspections will be carried out. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Years of research have showed that pulse oximeters yield less accurate readings for people with darker skin tones, and now the US Food and Drug Administration is proposing guidance to help make these devices more reliable and less biased. Pulse oximeters are small finger-clamp devices that estimate how much oxygen is being carried in the blood. Available both over the counter and by prescription, they grew in popularity during the Covid-19 pandemic. But many studies have revealed that pulse oximeters can measure blood oxygen levels as higher than they actually are for people with dark skin. The FDA announced Monday that it has published draft guidance for manufacturers of pulse oximeters that offers recommendations for the clinical testing and labeling of these electronic medical devices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the recommendations is to include a diversely pigmented group of 150 or more healthy participants in clinical studies of the devices, with at least 25% of participants falling within each skin color group on the system known as the Monk Skin Tone scale. Another is for manufacturers to prominently display appropriate warnings in the devices instructions, such as informing patients that differences in skin pigmentation may cause differences in pulse oximeter sensor performance. This draft guidance is aligned with the FDAs broader commitment to helping facilitate the development of high-quality, safe, and effective medical devices, Dr. Michelle Tarver, director of the FDAs Center for Devices and Radiological Health, said in the agencys announcement. Our draft recommendations are based on the best available science to help address concerns of disparate performance of pulse oximeters based on an individuals skin pigmentation. The FDA is requesting public comments on the draft guidance within 60 days, and then the agency will review and consider the comments before finalizing the guidance. How pulse oximeters work Pulse oximeters clamp onto a fingertip and send light beams through the finger to estimate pulse rate as well oxygen levels of the blood. A sensor on the other side of the device receives those light beams and uses them to detect the color of a persons blood. Bright red blood is highly oxygenated, while blue or purplish blood is less so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If these devices are not calibrated for darker skin tones, the pigmentation of the skin could affect how that light is absorbed by the sensor, leading to erroneous oxygen readings. Pulse oximeters were invented in 1974, and the evidence of flawed pulse oximeter readings in people with dark skin dates to the 1980s. One study, published in 2022, found that among more than 3,000 hospitalized patients receiving intensive care, those who were Asian, Black and Hispanic received less supplemental oxygen than White patients, which was associated with differences in their pulse oximeter readings. Another paper published in 2022 found that Black patients had higher odds than White patients of having low blood oxygen measured in their blood-drawn readings but not detected by pulse oximetry so a higher likelihood of inaccuracies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A separate study of about 7,000 Covid-19 patients, also published in 2022, found that compared with White patients, blood oxygen levels measured using pulse oximetry were overestimated by an average of 1.7% among Asian patients, 1.2% among Black patients and 1.1% among Hispanic patients. That overestimation may have contributed to a patient not receiving certain Covid-19 therapies when they needed the care. The FDA held two advisory panel meetings in 2022 and 2024 to discuss the accuracy of pulse oximeters and ways to improve and evaluate their performance, and the agency issued a safety communication warning that the devices have limitations and may be less accurate in people with dark skin pigmentation. The FDA noted that the new draft guidance applies to pulse oximeters that are intended for medical purposes, which are primarily used in hospital settings and doctors offices, and not for devices sold as general wellness products, which are often sold directly to consumers over-the-counter. Some pulse oximeters that are on the market may already meet the updated recommendations, according to the FDA, but if so, that should be indicated on their labeling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agency also proposed creating a public webpage identifying all of the pulse oximeters that have been FDA-cleared for medical purposes and have undergone FDA review under the new draft guidance. We can only hope The recommendations are not binding, and a new federal administration is taking office shortly, said Carmel Shachar, faculty director of the Health Law and Policy Clinic at Harvard Law School, who was not involved in the draft guidance. It is challenging timing to put it out now and then have an administration switch over and have people be taking it back up while figuring out what are going to be the priorities of this new administration. So theres a concern there, Shachar said. There are also concerns that manufacturers may not fully comply with the FDA guidance, said Dr. Theodore J. Iwashyna, professor of pulmonary and critical care medicine and of health policy and management at Johns Hopkins University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2013, the FDA issued premarket guidance for developers of pulse oximeters in which it recommended that they have a range of skin pigmentation represented in their clinical testing of the devices, including at least two darkly pigmented subjects or 15% of the study group, whichever is larger. But a research paper published last week in the journal JAMA found low uptake of that suggestion. Given how little compliance was seen when the last voluntary guidance was released a decade ago, we can only hope that the FDA finalizes and enforces these, Iwashyna, who was not involved in the FDA update, said in an email Monday. Unless there is formalization, enforcement, and compliance, I am not sure why we would anticipate these proposed new draft recommendations would result in better products, and therefore better, more equitable care. Some public health experts also worry that many over-the-counter pulse oximeters may not be included in the recommendations. But overall, Shachar said, she wants to see the new draft guidance fully implemented. I do really like the framing of it, in that its trying to provide a lot of carrots for manufacturers to do the right thing, to engage in the studies to make sure that there isnt bias in their devices, Shachar said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you do that, and you do that with a meaningful number of subjects 150 then this guidance says you can get a label saying that your device performs comparably across patient groups and potentially get on a registry or some sort of public-facing list that the FDA is going to compile, she said. Its trying to perhaps walk a fine line. Its not trying to do a recall of biased devices, thats for certain. Its were going to incentivize these good products to come on market in order to label them in a way to encourage consumers to use them. Iwashyna added that the new guidance should provide more detail as to how standards are set for what the FDA considers sufficiently non-disparate performance in patients with darker skin when it comes to both performance and safety. The current document also proposes very general tolerances for equitable, that seem to be based on what current devices can do, rather than what is actually safe for patients with darker skin, he said. I think our patients deserve proven safety, not made-up safety thresholds. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com As New York City ushered in its long-awaited congestion pricing plan, the FDNY sounded the alarm over what it calls a looming public safety crisis one they warn could mean slower response times, longer shifts and millions of dollars in extra costs. The tolling program, the first of its kind in the United States, was introduced just after midnight on Sunday, and imposes a toll on drivers entering Manhattans busiest areas, including parts of the Financial District, Midtown, and Lower Manhattan. The additional $9 fee has long sparked controversy, but the citys firefighters are now raising urgent concerns about its impact on emergency services. According to Jim Brosi, president of the Uniformed Fire Officers Association, a number of New Yorks bravest use their personal vehicles to drive to firehouses in need of additional personnel but the newly imposed toll is making that financially unfeasible for many, forcing the department to rely on a fleet of just 15 vans to transport firefighters. These vehicles, typically reserved for other tasks like picking up equipment or visiting injured members will now be stretched thin in order to shuttle firefighters between stations, he argued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We move 200 firefighters a day, Brosi said at a Sunday news conference. The problem is we may only be dropping one firefighter off at each fire. This will slow down the time it takes to move between firehouses, meaning the firefighters waiting for relief will be on duty longer than theyre supposed to be. The bottleneck could result in an additional $1.8 million in estimated overtime pay, according to Brosi. The union head also stressed the possibility of delays in getting manpower to stations where theyre most needed. The FDNYs concerns are compounded by the need for firefighters to return to their original firehouses at the end of the day to secure equipment, change, and decontaminate adding more strain to an already strained system. The FDNYs request for an exemption for those working inside the toll zone was denied. Brosi stressted they were not asking for a department-wide exemption, just a carve-out for the firefighters who are most affected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We didnt ask for an entire fire department exemption, said Brosi. We didnt ask for an entire civil service exemption. We asked very specifically for the people who are working in here, so they dont retire, so that they dont transfer out, so we dont lose institutional knowledge. Brosi worries the increased costs and logistical headaches could lead to personnel issues down the line, as seasoned members of the department could transfer out or retire early as their toll bills explode. [Manhattan is] a very difficult place to work, he said. The buildings are unique. Every last one of them. The institutional knowledge required to understand the complexity of the buildings and how to properly fight fires [in the zone] is difficult. Despite the FDNYs concerns, MTA Chair Janno Lieber defended the plan at a separate Sunday news conference, emphasizing the programs intention to reduce gridlock, improve emergency response times and encourage the use of public transportation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, the good news for the core function of fire and EMS is one of the principal goals, is to make response times faster, and thats especially important for EMS, Lieber said. The EMS operation, the ambulance drivers are taking people to hospital whose time to get to the hospital is going up, up, up. So that is a huge benefit, since youre talking about fire and EMS, likewise, fire trucks. The new toll is expected to climb over time and will increase to $12 by 2028, and then $15 by 2031 all aimed at funding upgrades and improvements to the citys mass transit system. The MTAs promise of a smoother subway system and less congestion has done little to reassure Brosi and his colleagues, who argue the citys long-term vision will have immediate and serious consequences for emergency services. Weve had frequent discussions with the MTA, and we were denied, the exasperated union head said. We had made requests through the mayors office, and we were denied. And we tried to explain to them the very unique situation. Colorados reintroduced gray wolf population is protected under the Endangered Species Act, making it illegal to harass, harm, or kill them in most circumstances. (Photo by Eric Cole/USFWS) Federal wildlife officials announced Thursday they are seeking information related to what they called the illegal killing of a gray wolf reintroduced to Colorado as part of the states voter-mandated restoration program. The wolf, an adult male known as 2309-OR, was captured in August as part of the Copper Creek pack, which was rounded up by state wildlife officials following a series of attacks on livestock in Grand County. Several days later, the wolf died in captivity from preexisting injuries unrelated to the capture, state officials said at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials ordered a necropsy, which subsequently revealed that a gunshot wound initiated the poor condition of the wolf and ultimately led to the cause of death, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said in a press release Thursday. The USFWS investigation is the first of its kind following the first release of 10 wolves captured in Oregon in Grand and Summit counties in December 2023. The releases marked the beginning of Colorados gray wolf reintroduction program, managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife pursuant to a ballot initiative narrowly approved by voters in 2020. Though the program mandates compensation for livestock lost to wolf predation, it has been bitterly opposed by Colorado ranchers. The capture of the Copper Creek pack followed the loss of at least nine cattle and 15 sheep in and around Grand County in 2024, though industry groups claim that their undocumented losses are higher. Colorados reintroduced gray wolf population is protected under the Endangered Species Act, making it illegal to harass, harm, or kill them in most circumstances. The USFWS said its offering an unspecified monetary reward for information about 2309-ORs killing. Tips can be submitted by calling 1-844-FWS-TIPS (397-8477), by sending an email to FWS_TIPS@fws.gov, or by visiting the agencys website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wildlife advocates previously launched an anti-poaching reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to formal charges against anyone who illegally kills a wolf in Colorado. A second reintroduced wolf, known as 2307-OR, died in Grand County as a result of a fight with another wolf, but USFWS necropsy also found the animal had an old, healed gunshot wound to its rear leg. The USFWS investigation comes as the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission is set to weigh a request from livestock industry groups to pause the wolf reintroduction program. The commissions 11 voting members will take up the petition at its Jan. 8 meeting; agency staff have formally recommended denying the petition and proceeding with the release of another 10 to 15 wolves sourced from Canada this winter. A spokesperson for Colorado Parks and Wildlife declined to comment Thursday, referring questions about the investigation to USFWS representatives. Ultimately, this illegal activity illustrates why Colorado must proceed apace with releasing more wolves over the coming months and years, the group Rocky Mountain Wolf Project said in a press release Thursday. We must ensure the success of our wolf restoration program. 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. A five-year evaluation of the binational Mexican gray wolf recovery program reveals a stark contrast between the recovery programs in the United States and Mexico. Federal officials lauded the U.S. program for surpassing recovery goals, but wolf advocacy groups are decrying the report for downplaying the status of wolves in Mexico. The five-year evaluation, released last month by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, is an assessment of the government's progress towards the goals outlined in a 2017 revision of the Mexican Wolf Recovery Plan. The program seeks to establish two resilient populations of the endangered wolves, one in the southwestern United States and one in Mexico. Between 2017 and 2022, state and federal agencies in Arizona and New Mexico managing the U.S. program surpassed targeted population and release goals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This progress report shows we are ahead of where we anticipated being in achieving our recovery goals in the United States for Mexican wolves, said Brady McGee, Mexican Wolf recovery coordinator for U.S. Fish and Wildlife in a news release. Since its inception, this program has strived to adjust and adapt our efforts to maximize success for recovery of this subspecies. This evaluation is evidence that what we are doing is working and provides a chance to reflect and shift as needed. Mexican gray wolf M1477 after being released south of Hannagan Meadow, Arizona, on Jan. 26, 2024. M1477, an eight-year-old male and member of the Eagle Creek Pack, was darted from a helicopter to have his radio collar replaced. In Mexico, the program did not meet either goal, recording only 35 wolves for a minimum population goal of 100 and nine releases for a target goal of 25. This is lipstick on a pig, said Chris Smith, wildlife program director for WildEarth Guardians, in a news release from wolf advocacy groups in response to the evaluation. "Credit is due for the successes of the recovery program. But this report glosses over significant setbacks and real threats to recovery. There is no functional wolf population in Mexico; there may be no wolves in Mexico at all. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service did not respond directly to the criticism from the advocacy groups but stated its intention to continue working with the Mexican government on their wolf recovery efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Service values our work with Mexico, and we will continue to collaborate on the future of the Mexican wolf," said Brent Lawrence, a communications specialist for U.S. Fish and Wildlife. In the evaluation, the federal agency identified specific actions from the binational recovery plan to aid the Mexico program, including exploring new sites for wolf introduction and increasing the number of translocated wolves. As of 2023, however, the agency was unable to report an estimated population in the report. "While Mexican wolf sightings continue to be reported in Mexico, we do not have an estimated minimum count for 2023," the U.S. Fish and Wildlife said in a written statement, "and Mexico has reported zero collared wolves alive in the wild in 2023." As the Mexico program struggles to establish a viable population, wolf advocacy groups say U.S. agencies are not doing enough to bolster the American population by increasing available habitat and taking action against preventable deaths. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Imperiled species: Fate of Mexican gray wolves is caught in a battle over their place in the landscape Human-caused mortality the largest threat to wolves The Mexican gray wolf, or lobo, is a subspecies of gray wolf that is smaller and genetically distinct from the larger gray wolf species in the northern Rocky Mountains. In 1976, Mexican gray wolves were listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act following the near eradication of the species for livestock predator control. Lonnie Fox, a wolf technician for the Arizona Game and Fish Department, carries Mexican gray wolf M1477 from a helicopter to the wolf field office for a health exam, Jan. 24, 2024, near Alpine. A minimum population of 252 Mexican gray wolves was counted in the United States in 2022, surpassing the recovery plans target goal by almost 100 wolves. Despite this success, a major impediment for the U.S. program is human-caused mortalities in the form of shootings or vehicle collisions. Although killing a wolf is a violation of federal law, the report states: Illegal mortality is the highest source of Mexican wolf mortality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Government agencies have made efforts to educate the public through extensive outreach and hunter education programs, but wolf advocates are calling for more law enforcement and increased prosecution when a wolf is killed. Of the 61 suspected illegal deaths caused between 2017 and 2022, only two were federally prosecuted and three were fined, according to the evaluation. If people know they can get away with killing a Mexican gray wolf, there's no incentive to not kill them, said Cyndi Tuell, Arizona and New Mexico director of Western Watersheds Project. There's just no accountability for when people kill the wolves. And that's a huge problem. In Mexico, wolf mortality is almost exclusively related to humans, with 39 deaths between 2011 and 2023 attributed to poisoning or human-caused unknown deaths. According to the evaluation, Mexico has reported that no wolves are currently wearing tracking collars in the wild mostly due to the illegal poisoning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pushing southward: Two Mexican gray wolves are released in southern Arizona's Sky Islands Wolf advocates challenge the northern boundary The current population of Mexican gray wolves is descended from seven surviving wolves used to start a binational captive breeding program in the 1980s and 1990s. This small genetic pool makes the wolves susceptible to problems caused by inbreeding. The current Mexican Wolf Recovery Program calls for the establishment of two genetically diverse populations, one in Mexico and one in the United States. As the Mexico program struggles, some advocates are pushing for the U.S. government to expand the wolf habitat and establish new populations northward. Currently, the U.S. program manages wolves inside of a designated reintroduction area known as the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area, or MWEPA. Established in 1998, the current MWEPA includes all land in Arizona and New Mexico south of Interstate 40. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There is abundant vacant habitat in Arizona, New Mexico, and old Mexico," Jim deVos, Mexican wolf coordinator for Arizona Game and Fish, told The Republic earlier this year. "We've been able to reduce the number of human-caused mortalities in the recovery area by making the effort to keep people informed." Government agencies consider this area the historic range of the species, but wolf advocacy groups have challenged this boundary as impeding on the natural dispersal of wolf population. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service continues to focus its recovery efforts within the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA), ignoring the critical needs of dispersing wolves and failing to acknowledge that suitable habitat exists beyond this artificial boundary, said Claire Musser, executive director of the Grand Canyon Wolf Recovery Project, in a news release. True recovery requires a plan that works with the wolves, not against them, ensuring their survival and ecological contributions outside the arbitrary boundary of Interstate 40. In recent years, Mexican wolves that have wandered north of I-40 have been killed or relocated. In 2021, a male wolf known as Anubis wandered across the freeway before being shot near Flagstaff in 2022. Another wolf, known as Asha, crossed the boundary twice in 2022 and again in 2023 before being relocated to a conservation center in New Mexico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2024, a pair of Mexican gray wolves, known as the Kendrick Peak Pack, was discovered near Flagstaff. As wildlife managers attempted to capture and relocate the animals back to the MWEPA, one of the wolves was found dead in November. An investigation into the death is ongoing. Wildlife managers insist that the species is most protected within the management area and the close proximity to other wolves will lead to increased breeding and genetic mixing, but advocacy groups have continued to pressure state and federal agencies to allow the wolves to establish in their preferred habitat. We really want them to start letting wolves live north of I-40, where they're showing us that the habitat is really great for them. That's happened in both Arizona and New Mexico, said Tuell of Western Watersheds Project. The wolves are showing us where to go, we just need to listen. John Leos covers environmental issues for The Arizona Republic and azcentral. Send tips or questions to john.leos@arizonarepublic.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Environmental coverage on azcentral.com and in The Arizona Republic is supported by a grant from the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust. Sign up for AZ Climate, our weekly environment newsletter, and follow The Republic environmental reporting team at environment.azcentral.com and @azcenvironment on Facebook and Instagram. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Advocates question a federal report claiming progress on Mexican wolf (NewsNation) Mild sicknesses tend to spike during the winter months, but this season, public health experts are warning of a possible quad-demic. The unofficial term quad-demic encompasses four infectious diseases: influenza, COVID-19, RSV, and norovirus. We know that in certain areas of the country, they may have more activity of these viruses than others, Dr. Dana Hawkinson, the medical director of infection prevention and control at The University of Kansas Health System, told NewsNation. Unfortunately, what we have seen recently in the last couple of weeks are increases in the rates of influenza infection throughout the country as well as COVID, which had been low after the summer peak. Now it is starting to increase as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Dr. Hawkinson, some areas of the country are also seeing higher cases of norovirus. Add in whooping cough, walking pneumonia and bird flu, you may find yourself getting sick and unsure of how to distinguish among overlapping symptoms. Are mask mandates making a comeback? Heres what to know. Flu Cases of influenza, or the flu, reached 40 million between 2023-2024, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Symptoms include: Fever (some, not all) or feeling feverish/chills Cough Sore throat Runny or stuffy nose Muscle or body aches Headaches Fatigue (tiredness) Most people recover from the flu within days to a couple of weeks, but some cases can become severe. Last flu season, 28,000 people died, CDC data shows. COVID-19 COVID-19 has seemingly become a part of life just as the flu did. Cases are nowhere near as high as they were when the virus was first introduced, but the U.S. is still seeing positive tests, hospitalizations, and deaths. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Between Oct. 1, 2024, and Dec. 14, 2024, the CDC estimates there were between 2.7 to nearly 5 million illnesses. Symptoms include: Fever or chills Cough Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing Sore throat Congestion or runny nose New loss of taste or smell Fatigue Muscle or body aches Headache Nausea or vomiting Diarrhea COVID-19 and flu symptoms are similar, but they are caused by different viruses. You cannot tell the difference between flu and COVID-19 by symptoms alone because some of the symptoms are the same, according to the CDC. Anyone experiencing symptoms should take a COVID-19 test, either at a testing site, doctors office or over-the-counter sold at pharmacies. The FDA previously granted approval for a combination flu and COVID test that can be used at home. RSV RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, affects the nose, throat and lungs, usually peaking in December and January. Infants and older adults are most susceptible, Dr. Hawkinson notes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The symptoms are similar to the common cold and other respiratory infections like the flu and COVID-19: Runny nose Congestion Decrease in appetite Coughing Sneezing Fever Wheezing The CDC warns that not all symptoms will appear at once and may come in stages. Infants may experience only irritability, decreased activity, and breathing difficulties without the other symptoms. University of Michigan lab develops blood test to identify HPV-related cancers RSV can cause other illnesses like bronchiolitis, which is inflammation of the lungs small airways, and pneumonia. The CDC recommends RSV vaccines for those who are 75 years old and older, and for those as young as 60 who may be at an increased risk for severe RSV. If you received an RSV vaccine within the last year, you likely dont need another shot this year, Dr. Hawkinson says. Norovirus The stomach bug is striking again. Norovirus is highly contagious, spread through contact, and causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines. The CDC reports about 19 to 21 million annual cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People of all ages can get norovirus, but more severe infections occur in children younger than five years old, older adults and people with weakened immune systems. US surgeon general urges cancer warnings on alcohol labels Symptoms typically develop within 12-48 hours of exposure. They include: Diarrhea Vomiting Nausea Stomach pain Fever Headache Body aches Dehydration Other illnesses to watch this winter Bird flu, walking pneumonia and whooping cough are also on doctors radars. An outbreak of bird flu, or H51N avian influenza, popped up in poultry and dairy cows. The disease is common in wild birds worldwide, but it was recently diagnosed in humans. The CDC confirmed 66 reported cases in the U.S. since last April, detecting the first severe human case in Louisiana on Dec. 13. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bird flu symptoms: Online searches spike after first severe case in US Infected people may not experience any symptoms, but if they do, symptoms can include an eye infection on the mild side to pneumonia and death in more severe instances. No person-to-person spread has occurred, according to the CDC. Atypical, or walking, pneumonia is a mild lung infection that can develop from bacteria, viruses or mold. Its name comes from the idea that people often dont know they have it and can carry on with daily activities despite the symptoms. Typically, those who become ill do not require hospitalization, which can often happen with severe cases of pneumonia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CDC reports about two million infections each year, with cases increasing in the later months of last year. Symptoms, similar to those in a bad common cold or the flu, include: Sore throat Fatigue Chest pain or discomfort Low-grade fever (less than 101 degrees Fahrenheit or 38 degrees Celsius) Mild chills Cough Sneezing Headache What is walking pneumonia? Lastly, whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is especially concerning for children who are too young to have completed vaccinations. The highly contagious respiratory tract infection causes a severe hacking cough, following by a whoop sound with an intake of breath, according to the Mayo Clinic. More than 10,000 cases are reported annually, according to the CDC. Symptoms, which begin about five to 10 days after exposure and occur in stages, include: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Runny or stuffed-up nose Low-grade fever (less than 100.4F) Mild occasional cough Vomiting during or after coughing fits Fatigue in between coughs Difficulty sleeping Struggle to breathe There are different whooping cough vaccines depending on your stage of life. For young children, doses are typically administered two, four, and six months after birth, as well as 15 to 18 months after and between the ages of 4 and 6 years old. Children get another dose when they are 11 or 12 years old. Women who are pregnant are able to get the whooping cough vaccine during the 27th to 36th week of each pregnancy. Adults are able to receive a vaccine at any time if they have never received it. If you are sick for several days or are experiencing severe symptoms, like longlasting diarrhea that can lead to dehydration, Dr. Hawkinson recommends seeking medical care. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. WASHINGTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) After the deadline closes for FEMA disaster assistance on Tuesday, document processing centers will open in the area on Wednesday. FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers in Carter, Johnson, Unicoi, Washington and Cocke counties will close at 5 p.m. Tuesday. Tuesday marks the last day for Tennesseeans impacted by Hurricane Helene to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. Document Processing Centers be open from 9 a.m. 5 p.m. Monday through Friday in the following locations: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter County: Carter County Public Library (201 N. Sycamore St., Elizabethton) Johnson County: Tennessee National Guard Armory (1923 S Shady Street Mountain City) Unicoi County: National Guard Armory/Unicoi EOC (615 S. Main Ave. Erwin, TN) People will be able to turn in documents and follow up on applications and appeals at the centers, according to FEMA. To update your application click here or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. As U.S. lawmakers debate issues around health care for transgender youth, its been difficult to determine the number of young people receiving gender-affirming medications, leaving room for exaggerated and false claims. Now, a medical journal has published the most reliable estimate yet and the numbers are low, reflecting more clearly on medical practices now being weighed by the U.S. Supreme Court. Fewer than 1 in 1,000 U.S. adolescents with commercial insurance received gender-affirming medications puberty blockers or hormones during a recent five-year period, according to the study released Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least 26 states have adopted laws restricting or banning gender-affirming medical care for transgender minors, and most of those states face lawsuits. A decision by the Supreme Court in a Tennessee case is expected later this year. President-elect Donald Trump has promised to roll back protections for transgender people. We are not seeing inappropriate use of this sort of care," said lead author Landon Hughes, a Harvard University public health researcher. And its certainly not happening at the rate at which people often think it is. The researchers analyzed a large insurance claims database covering more than 5 million patients ages 8 to 17. Only 926 adolescents with a gender-related diagnosis received puberty blockers from 2018 through 2022. During that time, 1,927 received hormones. The findings, published in JAMA Pediatrics, suggest that fewer than 0.1% of all youth in the database received these medications. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The researchers found that no patients under age 12 were prescribed hormones, an indication that doctors are appropriately cautious about when to start such treatments, Hughes said. I hope that our paper cools heads on this issue and ensures that the public is getting a true sense of the number of people who are accessing this care, he said. The database included insurance plans in all 50 states, but did not include youth covered by Medicaid, the federal-state health insurance program for low-income people. The study did not look at surgeries among transgender adolescents. Other researchers have found those procedures are extremely rare among young people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not all transgender youth proceed with medical treatments, said Dr. Scott Leibowitz, co-lead author of the adolescent standards of care for the World Professional Association for Transgender Health, a leading transgender health group. Transgender adolescents come to understand their gender at different times and in different ways, he said, noting that the best care should include experts in adolescent identity development who can work with families to help figure out whats appropriate for each young person. Leibowitz, who has worked in gender clinics in several U.S. cities, said the study adds to the growing evidence base about best practices when serving transgender and gender diverse youth. ___ 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. On Saturday, Jan. 4, nominees, filmmakers and fans of independent cinema gathered at Hotel Casa del Mar in Santa Monica for Film Independent's annual Spirit Awards Nominee Brunch. Film Independent, the nonprofit arts organization committed to fostering independence and inclusivity in visual storytelling, is celebrating its 40th anniversary and this year's 40th annual Spirit Awards will take place on Saturday, Feb. 22 at a tent on the beach in Santa Monica, with returning host Aidy Bryant of Saturday Night Live. A spread of Hotel Casa del Mar's eggs Benedict, french toast, pasta and grilled chicken salad greeted brunch guests who enjoyed cocktails courtesy of Bulleit Frontier Whiskey, FIJI water and Miraval Rose and Fleur de Miraval Rose Champagne. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Substance's Demi Moore had just gotten back into town after presenting an award to Colman Domingo whom she called " a bright light" at the Palm Springs Film Awards. The Apprentice's Sebastian Stan and director Ali Abbasi attended the brunch for the first time, as did the cast Anora. "Hard Truths" stars Michele Austin, Mike Leigh and Marianne Jean-Baptiste Stars Mikey Madison, Yuriy Borisov and Mark Eidelstein jovially posed for photos with fans, while actor Karren Karagulian spoke of how the idea for the film originated from his experiences with his Armenian family, who sold caviar upon settling in Brighton Beach, Brooklyn. Other guests in attendance included Baby Reindeer's Jessica Gunning, Nava Mau and Richard Gadd; Danielle Deadwyler; and Ryan Destiny. At the start of the event, Film Independent's Chair of the Board Brenda Robinson took a moment to honor the organizations beloved longtime president Josh Welsh, who passed away on Dec. 31 after a five-year battle with colon cancer. Welsh had been with the organization for over 20 years, beginning as a volunteer before being appointed president in 2012. "I want to acknowledge the loss of our friend and fierce advocate for everyone here today," said Robinson. "We are in a period of mourning. But speaking of mourning, we woke up this morning, we opened our eyes, and we were greeted by a new day," she said, uplifting the crowd by entreating the entire room to stand up and give Welsh a round of applause. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then, Karen Pittman (The Morning Show, The Americans) announced the winners of the three Emerging Filmmaker Awards who received $75,000 in Honors. The Someone to Watch Award was given to Sarah Friedland, director of Familiar Touch. The Truer Than Fiction Award was presented to Rachel Elizabeth Seed, director of A Photographic Memory. Finally, the Producers Award, presented by Bulleit Frontier Whiskey, went to Sarah Winshall. The 40th annual Spirit Awards will be streamed live on the IMDb and Film Independent YouTube channels, as well as across other social platforms. View the 14 images of this gallery on the original article PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) Parking lots filled up in Downtown Peoria as museum guests pack in to see the final day of the Jim Henson Exhibition in America. The Jim Henson Exhibition: Imagination Unlimited began on Saturday, Sept. 28, and ends Sunday, Jan. 5, at the Peoria Riverfront Museum in Downtown Peoria. The exhibit includes Muppets, puppets and character sketches, to name just a few of the attractions as well as the opportunity for visitors to puppeteer on camera and even design a puppet character, according to the Museums website. According to a WMBD reporter who was viewing the exhibit around 1 p.m. there were nearly 200 people waiting in a zigzag line in a downstairs meeting room at the museum to make more room for people so that they could wait for a chance to buy tickets to the exhibit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also stated that the 100 or so parking spots in the underground parking structure and the parking lot across the street from the museum were full of cars trying to view the exhibit. After nearly 50 minutes of waiting in the downstairs lobby, he could finally go upstairs, where the line weaved through other exhibit halls and acted as a de facto waiting room where people could look at the other museum exhibits while they waited. What is the reward for getting through the exhibit waiting line? Entry to another line in the lobby featured the same zigzag pattern as the downstairs room. Its been a constant flow of people. I think everyone in Peoria is here, and everyone in Chicago. People have come down from Maryland, Dallas and Florida. Theyre coming from all over, really kind of cementing the idea that we are a national museum, said Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications, Melody Conrad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CEO and President of the museum, John Morris, said in a Facebook post that on Saturday, Jan. 4, museum guests set the all-time gallery admission record for the museum as the thousands of people that went to the museum almost doubled the all-time admission record. The post said that people waited in line for almost four hours just to view the exhibit, and the museum staff worked tirelessly to accommodate all the museum guests. Morris said this is the last stop for the tour in America before it heads across the pond for its European tour. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) The Knoxville Fire Department extinguished a small fire at Rocky Hill Elementary School on Sunday. Firefighters responded to the school at 1200 Morrell Road around 7:20 p.m. Crews arrived at the scene and observed smoke in the area. After a brief search, firefighters located a heat and air unit on the outside of a portable classroom that had caught fire. KFD Assistant Chief Mark Wilbanks said in a release that the portable classroom suffered moderate smoke and water damage. An adjacent classroom also suffered some smoke damage. See more top stories on WATE.com Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Knox County Schools personnel are evaluating the classrooms. Investigators have not yet determined the fires cause. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) The Owensboro Fire Department is investigating reports of a gas smell coming from homes in the area just west of Frederica Street. Officials say they received multiple calls from homeowners as far as 9th to Griffith Avenue complaining of the smell. It is said the odor was identified as sewer gas and the Regional Water Resource Agency has been notified. The RWRA says they are flushing the system to address the issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Utility professionals are recommending that residents ensure traps have water in them and to report any smells to the RWRA emergency number at (270) 687-8451. Visit the RWRA website for more information. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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). WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) The Wichita Fire Department battled a 3-alarm fire at a north Wichita apartment complex Sunday afternoon. The fire broke out around 2:30 p.m. in the 1900 block of N. Amidon at Marina Point Apartments. Flames were shooting from the roof when firefighters arrived on the scene. The fire chief says everyone got out safely. She says the biggest factor was the cold. The biggest thing for us was just the water. Our water, our hose lines have the tendency, and our pumps have a tendency to freeze in these types of temperatures, so its hard to keep the water flowing and churning so that it doesnt freeze, Chief Tammy Snow said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blizzard strands travelers in Kansas The WFD says apartment management is working to find accommodations for nine displaced residents. Wichita fire crews battling a 3-alarm apartment fire in the 1900 block of N. Amidon on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (KSN Photo) Chief Snow reminds the community to err on the side of safety in the winter: When you start talking about this particular weather, just be cautious, you know, with what you do and err on the side of safety, and 100% make sure that you have some type of smoke alarm. You know, a lot of times people are just trying to keep warm, you know, so be careful with your space heaters, be careful with overloading your electrical circuits. If your breaker flips or your circuit flips, dont continue to keep you know, reflipping it back on. It flipped for a reason, and the reason is because its overloaded, so address or adjust whatever youre utilizing or discontinue something you know, prioritize. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cause of the fire is under investigation. The fire department says the building has experienced significant loss. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Fire crews responded to a house fire in southwest Oklahoma City Monday morning. Officials say firefighters were called to a home near SW 15th St. and Morgan Rd. sometime around 7 a.m. No injuries have been reported and the cause of the fire is currently unknown. No more information is available at this time. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 6Ector County Commissioners will hold their first meeting of the new year at 10 a.m. Tuesday at the County Annex with a number of items on the agenda. Items include: Hear a presentation from Jim Wise of the Sandhills Stock Show & Rodeo. Consider approving a request from the Area Agency on Aging at the Permian Basin Regional Planning Commission regarding their annual Senior Celebration held in May in honor of Older Americans Month, to be hosted at the Ector County Coliseum. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Consider library staff training day with a presentation from Howard Marks, Library Director. Marks will ask for approval for the library shutting down on Friday, Feb. 14, during normal business hours (9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.) for a staff training day; this will include library safety and security, de-escalation techniques, and CPR/AED training. Consider awarding a vehicle leases amendment for vehicle leases from Sewell Ford through the TIPS Cooperative Contract #240502. Consider approving the ranking of the responses to the Request for Qualifications for the Design of Ector County Cemetery, and authorize the start of negotiations for an agreement with Landgraf, Crutcher and Associates; the statements of qualifications were received and opened on November 25, 2024. Consider taking action on an MHRC Development Proposal to serve 9008 W. 25th St. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Consider action to approve engineering costs for Phase II- Tripp Project (16th Street to 3rd Street) in the amount of $314,484.50. Consider action to approve a budget amendment to General Fund, Sheriff, Uniform Supplies, and to Donated Revenues for $200,000. The court will also hold an executive session on legal matters, personnel matters and real estate. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) People like Megan Williams and Makayla Mottler are the first, first responders. Inside the 911 center in Lyons, their voices are what people hear right from the start when theres an emergency. One day last summer, this happened: I dont wanna say it was a normal day for me, Williams explained. I got the call from Molly she was the one driving by and saw the gentleman on the bike, hed been having what she thought was a heart problem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Williams took the caller straight through all the steps from her training, immediately thinking the cyclist may be having a heart attack. I said what does he look like, hows his breathing, she said he looks like hes turning blue, Williams said. I went through a breathing diagnostics where we time where their breaths are and he was not getting good breaths, thats when I knew we needed to start CPR. Williams and the caller did that for about seven minutes until more help could arrive. The man suffered cardiac arrest but he survived. Williams eventually got to meet everyone involved that day. I was glad to meet them because you dont hear any of the stories after the calls over, Williams added. You dont really hear what happens and you especially dont meet them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As for Mottlers story, this one was off-the-clock. She was out having dinner with friends in Auburn when out of nowhere there was trouble. I hear this commotion to the back of me, Mottler said. I turned around and heard some loud gasping for air, saw a bunch of people surround this lady, and could see whatever they were doing wasnt helping her at the time, she was starting to turn blue. Without thinking, she rushed to help and performed the Heimlich Maneuver on the person choking. It worked. She started breathing, her color came back, it was probably one of the best days of my life, Mottler said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sheriffs office also recognized these two dispatchers by saying 911 often represents the silent heroes of the first-responder family and Well done, ladies! News 8 echoes that as well. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SAO PAULO (Reuters) - The extraction of flight data from the Brazilian-made Azerbaijan Airlines plane that crashed in Kazakhstan last month was completed at a lab run by Brazil's air force, according to a statement released by the entity on Monday. The data from the Embraer plane was sent to the Kazakhstan authority investigating the crash. (Reporting by Andre Romani; Writing by Isabel Teles) MANHATTAN (KSNT) The Manhattan Regional Airport is asking people to be patient while crews dig out the airport Monday following a winter storm. The Manhattan Regional Airport shared photos of its crews working to clear the airport on Jan. 6. The airport asked customers to check with American Airlines for flight information. As of 10:16 a.m., four flights scheduled to arrive in Manhattan were cancelled. The flights were coming from Dallas-Fort Worth, TX and Chicago, IL and were scheduled to arrive between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., according to the airport website. A fifth flight scheduled to arrive around 10:15 p.m. on Jan. 6 from Dallas-Fort Worth hasnt been canceled yet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Monday morning Highway update for NE Kansas 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 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. An historic winter storm The Weather Channel is calling Winter Storm Blair is breaking snowfall records across the Midwest. AccuWeather forecasters warn the waves of Arctic air will continue to expand south across the nation, bringing cooler conditions even into Florida this week. Weather alerts via text: Sign up to get updates about current storms and weather events by location The cold is expected to last through Jan. 12, bringing below-freezing temperatures along the Gulf Coast, AccuWeather said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's what to expect. Weather alerts issued in Florida How low will Florida temperatures drop this week? "The same system that produced ice and snow across the Plains through the Mid-Atlantic will pull very cold air toward Florida," according to the Florida Public Radio Emergency Network. "Luckily for Florida, the cold front, although still strong, is weakening as it moves eastward. There is still the chance for some isolated intense storms on Monday, especially across the central and eastern portions of the Panhandle North Florida, through the western part of the I-4 corridor." Freeze watch will likely turn to freeze warnings across parts of North Florida on Monday, the network said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The temperatures we mark on Monday morning will be very different from those in Florida on Tuesday morning. Skies will clear on Monday night, and cold air will arrive and sink, allowing freezing temperatures to set up camp over North Florida. Temperatures in some areas will stay as low as the mid-to-upper 20s for several hours, which could cause some freezing in crops and vegetation. "Temperatures on Wednesday morning across many places in Florida will continue to be cold. South Florida expects its coldest temperatures in nearly two years, all mornings of Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. "The cold air will dominate the region, and temperatures will drop to the upper 40s across many locations, including some metro areas. This means that the most frigid temperatures in January 2024 (low-50s) will finally be beaten to match the ones we had in early winter 2023. Watch out for falling iguanas as Arctic blast hits Florida Iguanas become paralyzed once temperatures fall to the 40s and tend to fall from trees, the Florida Public Radio Emergency Network warned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once the temperature rises, they can move again and go about their day. Best advice is to leave them alone until they warm up and move away on their own. Will it snow in Florida later this week? The blast of Arctic air expected in Florida is forecast to arrive Saturday, Jan. 11, driving temperatures even lower. "Some models hint that snow could fall in parts of the state," the Florida Public Radio Emergency Network said. "The last snow reported in Florida was in January 2022, in Walton County in the Panhandle. Models keep going back and forth about the wintry precipitation that made it to Florida. There will still be plenty of cold air in place that would allow colder air to sink in and form any solid or sort of solid precipitation, but of course, there are also several days ahead of us, and any slight increase in temperatures will likely keep all the precipitation in a liquid state." Wind chill could drop to 16-20 in Florida Panhandle Cold Weather Advisory in effect for southeast MS, southwest and south central AL and the western FL panhandle. Wind chill values are expected to drop as low as 16 to 20. Hypothermia is possible if precautions are not taken. Dangerous surf and rip currents are expected as well. pic.twitter.com/f7Pfvthyic NWS Mobile (@NWSMobile) January 6, 2025 A cold weather advisory is in effect for the western Florida Panhandle. Wind chill values are expected to drop as low as 16 to 20, according to the National Weather Service Mobile. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Wind chills below 25 degrees can be hazardous with long exposure to humans and animals. Air temperatures below 30 degrees will also result in damage to sensitive crops." 'Socked with cold weather': Winter Storm Blair to bring freezing temps to Tallahassee Freeze to hit Bay County on Monday night. Here's a look at the outlook for the week National Weather Service issues cold weather advisories in northern Florida Pensacola: Monday night: low 32 Tuesday: High 48 Tuesday night: low 33 Tallahassee: Monday night: low 32 Tuesday: High 50 Tuesday night: low 31 How cold will North Florida get? Breezy & chilly Tuesday morning After the rain ends, temps quickly drop tonight with lows in the upper 20s - mid 30s. Wind Chills ("Feels Like") Temperatures will be in the 20s area-wide. Protect sensitive plants & bundle up when you go outside! pic.twitter.com/TBkNMor7Py NWS Jacksonville (@NWSJacksonville) January 6, 2025 Temperatures are expected to drop quickly Monday night, with lows forecast in the upper 20s to mid 30s. Wind chills will be in the 20s across North Florida, according to the National Weather Service Jacksonville. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The cold wind chills as low as 25 degrees could result in hypothermia if precautions are not taken," the Weather Service said. Arctic blast is bringing cold temperatures to St. Augustine this week. Just how cold? Jacksonville: Monday night: low 32 Tuesday: High 50 Tuesday night: low 31 How cold will it get along Florida's East Coast? Jan 6| Last warm day for a bit as much colder air comes in tonight behind a cold front. Low/medium (20-30%) chance of rain into this evening ahead of the front. Breezy & gusty SW winds this afternoon. Hazardous marine conditions with moderate risk of rip currents at beaches. pic.twitter.com/3e3YFQxIS3 NWS Melbourne (@NWSMelbourne) January 6, 2025 Monday is expected to be the last warm day for a bit as much colder air comes in tonight behind a cold front, according to the National Weather Service Melbourne. There's a 20 percent to 30 percent chance of rain into Monday evening ahead of the front. Significantly colder air is forecast to move in behind a cold front Monday night into early Tuesday morning, according to the National Weather Service Melbourne. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lows in the 30s to low 40s, combined with breezy northwest winds, will result in very cold wind chills ranging from the upper 20s to mid 30s over much of east central Florida. Patchy frost is also possible north of Greater Orlando. Very cold wind chills as low as 28 are expected in Lake and Volusia counties. Brrr! Volusia-Flagler weather: Expect 'feels like' temps to dip into the 20s on Tuesday With frigid temperatures through mid-week, Flagler County activates cold-weather shelter Temperatures in Polk County will drop to mid-30s next two nights Wind chill temps in 30s likely as winter storm front kicks off long cold pattern Daytona Beach: Tonight: 37 Tuesday: 53 Tuesday night: 41 Melbourne: Tonight: 41 Tuesday: 60 Tuesday night: 45 Orlando: Tonight: 39 Tuesday: 55 Tuesday night: 39 Port St. Lucie: Tonight: 43 Tuesday: 61 Tuesday night: 45 How cold will South Florida get? Cooler temperatures are forecast to arrive overnight behind the passage of a cold front. Breezy conditions will result in wind chills a few degrees colder than actual low temperatures. pic.twitter.com/RpaTwR2s0V NWS Miami (@NWSMiami) January 6, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A cold front is expected to pass through South Florida tonight, according to the National Weather Service Miami. "Wind chills could dip into the 30s across Hendry, Glades, and interior Collier counties on Tuesday morning." "A reasonable worst case wind chill forecast would have 35-40 chills across Hendry, Glades and interior Collier, with 45-50 along the east coast metros." West Palm Beach: Tonight: 52 Tuesday: 62 Tuesday night: 55 Miami: Tonight: 57 Tuesday: 61 Tuesday night: 55 Naples: Tonight: 50 Tuesday: 62 Tuesday night: 46 How cold will Southwest Florida get? A line of showers and storms are expected to move through Southwest Florida Jan. 6, 2025 ahead of a cold front. Some storms could be severe. A line of showers and a few thunderstorms ahead of a cold front are expected to move into the Nature Coast by mid Monday afternoon, reaching the Tampa Bay area by early evening. An isolated tornado cannot be ruled out, the National Weather Service Tampa Bay said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A cold weather advisory will be needed for Tuesday and Wednesday mornings for the Nature Coast and inland counties over Central Florida, with a freeze watch or warning possible for Wednesday morning for parts of the Nature Coast. Daytime highs for Tuesday through Thursday will top out only in the 50s and 60s, the National Weather Service Tampa Bay said. Sarasota, Bradenton area predicted to escape below-freezing temps ahead of cold front Sarasota: Tonight: 47 Tuesday: 56 Tuesday night: 46 Fort Myers: Tonight: 47 Tuesday: 61 Tuesday night: 44 Stay informed. Get weather alerts via text What's next? Stay informed with the latest weather developments and news by becoming a subscriber. This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Florida getting new blast of Arctic air. Freeze warnings issued Today a disturbing hypothesis has become a truth: foreign national males living in Britain commit sex crimes at a far higher rate than do British men. Thanks to data compiled from among 41 of the 43 police forces in England and Wales by the Centre for Migration Control following freedom of information requests, we know that foreigners were 3.5 times more likely to be arrested for sex offences during the first ten months of last year. The idea that a surge in sex crime could be linked at least in part to a boom in immigration from places where womens equality is not recognised long ago passed a common-sense test. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After all, the number of rapes recorded by police in England & Wales suddenly started soaring from about 15,000 a year a decade ago towards its current level of almost 70,000 a year. That coincided with a sharp increase in immigration by young men from countries and cultures that have not experienced womens emancipation. In some such countries, even the most basic notion of female consent is far from universally recognised. And given our model of state-sponsored crude multiculturalism, under which arrivals are encouraged to stick to modes of behaviour from their countries of origin, it always seemed unlikely that these young men would instantaneously and en masse have turned their backs on the atmosphere of extreme chauvinism in which they grew up. Data coming from Germany, Denmark and Sweden pointed towards the same thing too: foreign males were over-represented in their rape statistics and those from countries with a backwards record on womens rights were hugely so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So it stood to reason that something truly shocking was going on here too: thousands of women in Britain were being raped, groped and harassed by males from overseas. But the hypothesis, which accorded with the lived experience of many women, could not be freely discussed without risking being cancelled as a racist by the woke left which has such a grip on the public realm. Indeed, public information films put out to encourage men to self-police invariably featured a white British male disrespecting a passing woman and his rainbow nation friends chastising him. Today we can see that is very far from the typical reality. The official data, extracted piecemeal and constabulary by constabulary, tells us that foreign nationals formed more than a quarter of all arrests for sexual offences. And they were arrested at a rate of 165 per 100,000, compared to 48 per 100,000 for Britons. When it comes to overall crime, some nationalities were vastly over-represented. Against an average arrest rate per every 1,000 British nationals of 12, there were 210 Albanians arrested per 1,000, 107 Afghans, 93 Iraqis, 73 Algerians, 70 Moroccans and 65 Somalis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Coming as they do amidst the final collapse of establishment denials and attempted cover-ups about the enormous prevalence of Pakistani-heritage men in rape gangs targeting vulnerable white girls, these figures are political dynamite. The Talk TV presenter Alex Phillips was one of a very few media women who dared to broach this subject in recent years after being harassed several times by foreign males. A year ago she faced a fierce backlash after declaring on air: I have been living in London for ten years. Never before have I felt as unsafe as I do now. When I walk down the street Im increasingly being leered atIm increasingly being followed and its not, visibly to me anyway, by people who were born and bred here. As she observed this morning after learning of her vindication: Here are the stats at long last. Its been a fight to get here. In combination, these twin furores the Pakistani rape gangs and the foreign national sex-offending figures must bring to an end our establishments deeply engrained habit of starting from a presumption of British vice and foreign virtue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That notion will be hard to shift. This Labour government will be particularly reluctant to dump it. After all, it is actively deploying it in the realm of foreign policy where it currently informs positioning on the Chagos Islands and talks about paying reparations to Commonwealth countries over slavery. But it must be rooted out and replaced by a hard-headed focus on the social costs of uncontrolled and non-selective immigration. The recent enormous Boriswave of immigrants was skewed heavily towards people from culturally non-aligned countries of origin. In other words, we can expect to see British women pay a heavy price for Johnsons recklessness in the years to come. Let us resolve to show zero tolerance from this day forth for any establishment figure who plays fast and loose with the safety of the British people in this way. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. With events like Nights of Lights and a rich history, St. Augustine has been an epicenter for tourism in the state of Florida. However, now, tourism leaders say they want to make the ancient city a year-round draw for tourists to visit and spend their money. These dollars go back into making a really nice quality of life for our St. Johns County residents and our visitors, Susan Phillips, CEO of the St. Johns County Visitor & Convention Bureau, told Action News Jax Monday. And again, its paid for by the visitors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Phillips said in 2024, the number of tourists coming to town dropped slightly from years prior. The plan now would be to draw international travelers during the times of year when events like Nights of Lights arent already packing out the streets of downtown St. Augustine, and even during midweek hours when business slows down. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] We have Jacksonville which is less than an hour away and Port Canaveral which is two hours away, Phillips said. So for the first time were gonna be targeting those folks who are coming here and might wanna visit St. Augustine or Ponte Vedra before their cruise or after their cruise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Phillips added that the hope is to not simply draw in more travelers, but also wealthier travelers, to boost tourism while mitigating traffic and other impacts. Nonetheless, St. Augustine locals Action News Jax spoke with Monday are not supportive of the plans. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Its geared now towards tourists, Aimee Nichols told Action News Jax. Forget the history, forget what made St. Augustine special, because its not anymore. And that breaks my heart. I remember what it was like before we became this constant barrage of festivities every weekend, Debbie Wiles said. And it would be really nice to calm that down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ultimately, Phillips said the hope is to find a way to boost tourism year round in St. Augustine thats beneficial to visitors and locals alike. Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. DENVER (KDVR) The Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Colorado has announced plans for a new job just months after he assumed leadership of the federal office. Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Colorado Matthew Kirsch is resigning from the federal office effective Jan. 25. Kirsch has been tapped by former U.S. Attorney John Walsh, who was elected to be Denvers next District Attorney, to be the First Assistant District Attorney in Denver. Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser announces run for governor Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kirsch took over as Colorados chief federal law enforcement officer in June after then-U.S. Attorney Cole Finegan submitted his resignation in May. According to his biography on the U.S. Department of Justice website, Kirsch became an Assistant U.S. Attorney in 1999 and had held the title of Acting U.S. Attorney previously before he was named to the role in 2024. In 2024, Kirsch also received the Directors Award for Executive Achievement from the Executive Office of United States Attorneys. Walsh will take office in Denver on Jan. 14, and a ceremonial swearing-in event will be held on Jan. 16. He announced his leadership team Thursday, which includes the Honorable Darryl Shockley, who is currently a judge in Denvers District Court and a former Denver District Attorneys Office prosecutor. Shockley and Kirsch will join the DAs office in February, Walshs announcement specified. These outstanding lawyers and public servants will play integral roles in my administration and I am deeply grateful that they have agreed to join our team, DA-elect Walsh said in a release.The depth and breadth of their professional experiences, backgrounds and perspectives will help take the Denver District Attorneys Office to new levels of effectiveness as we work to make Denver an even safer and more just city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Replacing Kirsch is First Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Bishop Grewell, who will serve as Acting U.S. Attorney when Kirschs resignation goes into effect. Grewell joined the Justice Department in 2010 and the District of Colorado in 2013. He is currently the Chief of the Appellate Division. Also leaving the Colorado office is Deputy U.S. Attorney Andrea Wang, who was not named among the Denver District Attorneys Office leadership. A new U.S. Attorney for the District of Colorado is expected to be nominated by President-elect Donald Trump in the coming months, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Colorado. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Former Capitol Police Sergeant Aquilino Gonell in a new op-ed criticized President-elect Trump over his pledge to pardon supporters who stormed the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, calling it devastating. In the New York Times op-ed released Sunday, a day before the fourth anniversary of the attack, Gonell relived his day inside the halls of Congress attempting to keep lawmakers safe as a mob entered looking to stop the certification of the 2020 election results. He detailed the beating he suffered, noting he thought he would die and never make it home to see my wife and young son. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the last four years, its been devastating to me to hear Donald Trump repeat his promise to pardon insurrectionists on the first day hes back in office, Gonell wrote. As Trump prepares to return to the White House for a second term, hes stated one of the first things he would do back in office is pardon Jan. 6 defendants. Gonell wrote that he sustained long-lasting injuries that required multiple surgeries and years of rehab for post-traumatic stress disorder. Yet in the op-ed, he calls himself one of the lucky responding officers. Although I left the Capitol Police force, I remain haunted by that day, he wrote. Now Mr. Trumps promised actions could erase the justice weve risked everything for. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He later added that he wonders why he risked his life for elected officials inspired by Trump only to see him return to power stronger than ever. Gonell, whos become an outspoken Trump critic and testified in court, also noted his fear of retribution from the new administration. Ahead of the anniversary, Gonell also told MSNBCs Jonathan Capehart that it would be an outrage and a desecration to the sacrifice of those who died serving that day if Trump pardoned rioters. Gonell noted on air that hes applied for benefits for the trauma and financial burden hes experienced since leaving his job that have yet to be approved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said he didnt think four years ago that he would be on air in 2025 telling his story ahead of another Trump presidency. Gonell in the op-ed called on Trump to let the Jan. 6 rioters convictions stand, saying it would help heal a divided nation. Those people, they attack us, the police officers. They are not warriors. They are not the victims, Gonell said on MSNBC. They chose to commit a crime because they were so gullible enough to believe the lies of Donald Trump without any evidence. We were doing our job, he continued. We were keeping our oath. Not them. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 trial of former French president Nicolas Sarkozy on charges related to alleged Libyan funding of his successful 2007 presidential bid is to begin in Paris on Monday. Sarkozy, who was president from 2007 to 2012, is accused of accepting millions of dollars worth of illegal campaign financing from the regime of former Libyan leader Moamer Gaddafi. Sarkozy has always denied the allegations. The former president is on trial alongside 12 other defendants on charges of illegal campaign financing, misappropriation of public funds and bribery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the co-defendants are former interior ministers Claude Gueant and Brice Hortefeux, as well as former labour minister Eric Woerth. If found guilty, Sarkozy faces up to 10 years in prison and a heavy fine. Several of his co-defendants could also receive 10-year sentences. The trial is set to begin at 1:30 pm (1230 GMT) and is scheduled to last until April 10. France has requested legal assistance from 21 countries for its extensive investigations into the Libya affair, which fill 73 trial records. Sarkozy has already stood trial on various other charges. In mid-December, he was found guilty of trying to influence the judiciary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was sentenced to a one-year sentence at home wearing an electronic ankle monitor for bribery and illegal influence. The arrangements of his sentence are to be finalized in the coming weeks and Sarkozy has not yet been fitted with the electronic tag. The trial of former French president Nicolas Sarkozy on charges related to alleged Libyan funding of his successful 2007 presidential campaign began in Paris on Monday. Sarkozy, who was president from 2007 to 2012, is accused of accepting illegal campaign financing amounting to millions of euros from the regime of former Libyan leader Moamer Gaddafi. Sarkozy has always denied the allegations. The former president is on trial alongside 12 other defendants on charges of illegal campaign financing, misappropriation of public funds and bribery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the co-defendants are former interior ministers Claude Gueant and Brice Hortefeux, as well as former labour minister Eric Woerth. The charges are based in part on information provided by the French-Lebanese businessman Ziad Takieddine, who said he transported multiple suitcases containing several million euros, prepared by the Libyan regime, to the French Interior Ministry, which was then led by Sarkozy, at the end of 2006 or beginning of 2007. In return for the funds, Libya, which was at the time ostracized internationally, was allegedly promised beneficial business deals with French companies and support in its return to the international stage. If found guilty, Sarkozy faces up to 10 years in prison and a heavy fine. Several of his co-defendants could also receive 10-year sentences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement France has requested legal assistance from 21 countries for its extensive investigations into the Libya affair. The trial is scheduled to last until April 10. Sarkozy has already stood trial on various other charges. In mid-December, he was found guilty of trying to influence the judiciary. He was sentenced to a one-year sentence at home wearing an electronic ankle monitor for bribery and illegal influence. The arrangements of his sentence are to be finalized in the coming weeks and Sarkozy has not yet been fitted with the electronic tag. Former GOP Representative Adam Kinzinger has mocked Republican lawmakers who changed their tune on the January 6 Capitol attack by reposting statements they made four years ago. Kinzinger, a former Illinois congressman who campaigned for Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election, hit out at Republicans who have backpedaled on their criticism of President-elect Donald Trump and the violent events of that day in 2021. Among the senators Kinzinger roasted was Trump ally and staunch defender Lindsey Graham. Those who made this attack on our government need to be identified and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, Graham said four years ago on X (formerly Twitter). Their actions are repugnant to democracy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Graham was critical of Trump during the presidential campaign and reportedly advised him to stop mentioning the 2020 election, he has since championed the Republican. Kinzinger reposted Grahams statement simply saying: Agreed. Former GOP Representative Adam Kinzinger has hit out at Republican lawmakers over Jan 6 (EPA) He also shared a 2021 X statement from Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, who was a key figure in the campaign to keep Trump in the White House after losing the 2020 election. I unambiguously condemn in the strongest possible terms any and all forms of violent protest, Johnson said at the time. Any individual who committed violence today should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thanks @SpeakerJohnson, Kinzinger said as he shared the four-year-old post. Three police officers stand in front of the U.S. Capitol Building on Monday in Washington, D.C. ,Monday marks the fourth anniversary since rioters stormed the Capitol (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) These actions at the US Capitol by protestors are truly despicable and unacceptable. While I am safe and sheltering in place, these protests are prohibiting us from doing our constitutional duty. Senator Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee wrote four years ago on X. I condemn them in the strongest possible terms. We are a nation of laws, Blackburn added, to which Kinzinger reposted and said: Thanks @MarshaBlackburn. He also shared a 2021 post from conservative radio host Erik Erikson that called for the protestors to be shot and to deny [Trump] the ability to run for election again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kinzinger lashed out at his former political allies and accused them of cowardice. Jan 6th is a reminder to me: cowardice spreads like wildfire, he said in a follow up post on X. This country needs leaders who are willing to tell the people the truth, not pander to lies. It comes as Trumps 2024 election win over Harris was certified by a joint session of Congress on Monday in just 28 minutes. LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) Teresa Woodruff, former interim president at Michigan State University, became the first MSU faculty member to receive the National Medal of Science, the highest recognition the nation can bestow on scientists and engineers. Woodruff was presented with the national medal at a ceremony at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building in Washington, D.C. Arati Prabhakar, Ph.D., Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), awards Teresa Kaye Woodruff the National Medal of Science during an awards ceremony at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building in Washington, DC, January 3, 2025. Photo by Ryan K. Morris MSU officials said in a news release that Woodruff pioneered the science of oncofertility in 2006 so cancer patients could protect their reproductive futures. The National Library of Medicine reports that oncofertility is now a globally recognized medical discipline, with insurance and reimbursement available to patients and providers in many states and countries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Teresa Woodruff is an outstanding scientist, leader and humanitarian, said MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz in a news release sent to 6 News. Her oncofertility research has given thousands of patients and their families hope for a better future. Along the way, she has mentored hundreds of students at every level and at every opportunity. And of course, Spartans around the world appreciated her service as interim president of MSU. I have been honored to follow in her footsteps. Im humbled to receive this award, Woodruff said. I have had the honor and pleasure to work with so many students and collaborators throughout my career. My fundamental belief is science should help tomorrows patients be treated better than todays. This means we need to take our discoveries and turn them toward patient needs. And that includes broadening the pipeline of researchers in the field, advancing our discoveries from the bench to the bedside, and expanding the corridors of communication between physician groups and others who are in health care. According to MSU, Woodruff received a Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring in 2011. President Barack Obama greets the 2010 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring recipients in the Oval Office, Dec. 12, 2011. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza) This photograph is provided by THE WHITE HOUSE as a courtesy and may be printed by the subject(s) in the photograph for personal use only. The photograph may not be manipulated in any way and may not otherwise be reproduced, disseminated or broadcast, without the written permission of the White House Photo Office. This photograph may not be used in any commercial or political materials, advertisements, emails, products, promotions that in any way suggests approval or endorsement of the President, the First Family, or the White House. Woodruff is an MSU Research Foundation Professor in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology at MSUs College of Human Medicine and the Department of Biomedical Engineering at MSUs College of Engineering. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those who earn these awards embody the promise of America by pushing the boundaries of what is possible. These trailblazers have harnessed the power of science and technology to tackle challenging problems and deliver innovative solutions for Americans and for communities around the world. A statement from the White House Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. Orbstacle Course Former NASA astronaut Leroy Chiao says he had a baffling encounter when he was flying his private four-seat airplane in 2023. At an altitude of 9,000 feet over Houston, Texas, the former Space Shuttle commander had two "perfectly smooth" and "shiny" spheres, each roughly three feet in diameter, rip by him a mere 20 feet away. He first detailed the unusual encounter in an interview with NewsNation in December, and recently elaborated on the sighting in a follow-up with the New York Post claims from a highly accomplished pilot and space traveler that add fuel to the fire of debates over unidentified objects in the skies. "There was nothing around me other than the panhandle of Texas at nine thousand feet on this instrument flight plan and just suddenly these things appeared," he told the publication. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They came right at me," he added. Alien Bird Strike Intriguingly, the Pentagon released a declassified video of a UFO soaring over a military base in the Middle East in April 2023, roughly four months before Chiao's encounter. (Some experts have since suggested it could've simply been an ordinary party balloon.) As the New York Post points out, the object visible in the footage roughly aligns with Chiao's own description. "Thats what it made me think of," he told the publication. "I wonder, 'Gosh, I wonder if this is the same thing.'" Officials from the Pentagon's All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office also revealed in 2023 that "metallic orbs" are the most prevalent type of UFOs in the sightings the office was studying. However, the panel stressed at the time that there was no evidence that they represented encounters with extraterrestrial technology. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A crash with the objects could've ended in disaster, Chiao claimed. "Obviously if I collided with them it would have been really bad," he said. "No one wouldve known what happened to me." Chiao could only guess as to what may have been behind the two mysterious orbs, suggesting it could've been "some secret military program." It's hard to make of Chiao's account, especially without any hard evidence. His claims that the two orbs didn't even disturb the "air around my airplane" as they zipped by in complete silence, and that they showed "no visible means of propulsion," are particularly eyebrow-raising. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It's certainly not the first account of its kind. A number of former military pilots have come forward over the years, claiming to have made similar sightings. Claims by David Grusch, an Air Force veteran and former member of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, catapulted the topic into the mainstream in mid-2023, sparking sensational claims of an alleged government cover-up of the recovery of alien spacecraft. Universal Coverage As a NASA veteran, though, Chiao is keeping it real. "I firmly believe there is other intelligence in the universe," he told the Post. "I think its the height of arrogance to think that were the only intelligent life in this entire universe." But the "flip side of that is that well never find each other because the universe is so vast," he added. "So I have trouble believing that aliens have visited us." More on UFOs: Former Governor of Maryland Mocked for Posting Video of "Drones" That Appear to Be Ordinary Stars Former President Jimmy Carter will lie in repose for one more day on Monday. Carter, who died on Dec. 29 at the age of 100, completed his final journey from his hometown in Plains, Ga. to the Carter Center in Atlanta on Saturday. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Since Saturday night, thousands have come to the Carter Center to pay their respects to Georgias native son and the former president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Visitors will have until 7 a.m. on Tuesday to visit before the state funeral plans shift to Washington D.C. later that morning. The ceremonies in the nations capital include Carter lying in state at the U.S. Capitol and his funeral at the Washington National Cathedral on Thursday. A private service and burial will happen Thursday afternoon back in Plains. Heres a look ahead to Tuesdays schedule. TUESDAY 7 a.m. Lying in Repose concludes. 9:30 a.m. A departure ceremony from the Carter Presidential Center. 10 a.m. The motorcade departs for Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Georgia. 10:40 a.m. The late president and his family arrive at Dobbins Air Reserve Base and board Special Air Mission 39 after an arrival ceremony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 11:15 a.m. Special Air Mission 39 departs for Washington. 12:45 p.m. Special Air Mission 39 arrives at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, and Carters remains are transferred with ceremony to the hearse. 1:15 p.m. The motorcade departs for the U.S. Navy Memorial. 2 p.m. The motorcade arrives at the U.S. Navy Memorial and Carters remains are transferred from a hearse to a horse drawn caisson with ceremony. 2:15 p.m. The funeral procession begins marching up to the U.S. Capitol via Pennsylvania Avenue, turning left onto Constitution Avenue. 2:40 p.m. Upon arrival at the U.S. Capitol, the late president is carried up the stairs by military body bearers and into the Rotunda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 3 p.m. Congress pays their respects during a service in the Rotunda. 3:45 p.m. Carter begins lying in state while the military maintains a guard of honor. 7 p.m. to midnight Lying in state opens to the public. RELATED STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] The hearse carrying the late former President Jimmy Carter stopped briefly in front of the state Capitol on the journey to the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta. (Photo by Jill Nolin | Georgia Recorder) Former President Jimmy Carter may have only served one term as governor, but he left his mark in many ways before leaving for Washington, even literally. With a pencil, Carter signed the desk in the governors ceremonial office, starting a tradition that has been continued by his successors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Four of those governors who would go on to write their own signature on the desk three of them Republicans were among those who bundled up Saturday and stood outside the state Capitol as Carters motorcade made a brief and solemn ceremonial stop on its way to the Carter Presidential Center a few miles away. Then-Gov. Jimmy Carter started the tradition of signing the governors ceremonial desk. (Photo by Jill Nolin | Georgia Recorder) I think most of us felt like he had really fought for so long that there was a certain peace about that at that final moment in that regard, Sonny Perdue, a former governor who is now chancellor of the University System of Georgia, told reporters Saturday. But I think we looked at the pictures of him at his wifes funeral, and that wasnt the President Carter that I knew and the humanitarian that lived after that, Perdue said. Carter, who was a Democrat, died last Sunday at the age of 100 after being in hospice care for nearly two years. Former first lady Rosalynn Carter died late in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ceremonial stop at the state Capitol was part of the first of a six-day funeral procession that started Saturday in Americus and will culminate Thursday with services in Washington and finally back in Plains. Carter will lie in repose at the Carter Presidential Center until 6 a.m. Tuesday. Wendy Shaw, who lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, and her family were among the many out-of-towners who made their way to Atlanta this weekend for the former presidents funeral services. The family visited the state Capitol on Saturday morning and then proceeded to the Carter Presidential Center at night for Carters public visitation. The 56-year-old banker wanted to pay respect to her childhood hero. He was someone who I admired because of what he stood for politically and for being someone who championed causes that benefited people who were the most in need, Shaw said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the most part, Saturday was a reflection of Carters humble beginnings in rural Georgia and his time under the Gold Dome in Atlanta, where he served as a state senator and governor before winning a long-shot bid for president in 1976. Carters fingerprints can still be seen all over state government, including through the states education system he laid the groundwork for the states technical and vocational education system as well as Georgias kindergarten and pre-K programs and drastically restructured state government through a consolidation of agencies and boards. You might think about that as being like smaller government, but that wasnt his goal, said state Sen. Sally Harrell, an Atlanta Democrat who served alongside Carter-era lawmakers when she was in the state House. His goal was to have efficient government that served the people better. So that was always his goal is to have a government that is stronger for the people. That government still exists today, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harrell was among the dozens of state lawmakers who greeted Carters motorcade Saturday as it stopped in front of the state Capitol amid a bipartisan outpouring of tributes and reflections on Carters legacy. I think when people think about President Carter, they think about him being a compassionate, moral person, and I think thats what people are craving now, is to have another leader like him, Harrell said. Perdue argued the universal admiration seen in the last week says as much about the nation as it does Carter. I hope that says something about us as far as a country thats willing to recognize a great person, a great leader in that regard, and pay due respect to one irrespective of what partisan activity or area they were in that regard, I feel that way, Perdue said. Obviously, I have great respect for what he did not what party he belonged to, but what he created and did for mankind afterwards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Georgia Supreme Court Justice Charlie Bethel, a former GOP state senator who previously served alongside Carters grandson Jason Carter in the state Senate, said he felt sadness but also pride at the death of a man he tells his children is worthy of emulation. In our house, we dont do a lot of heroing, because human beings are flawed, but its nice to be able to point to somebody and say, if you want to live like another person, Jimmy Carter is one person its worth pursuing that as a goal, Bethel said Saturday. Georgias highest-ranking elected officials, who are all Republicans, were also at the state Capitol Saturday to honor Carter and to greet Jason Carter and Carters oldest son, Chip Carter. There was a lot of love on the side of the road, Chip Carter said during a private service at the Carter Presidential Center. Every overpass had people on it. It was amazing and gave you goosebumps just to sit in the van and see the reaction of those people of Georgia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The public visitation started Saturday evening after the private service, which was attended by staff of the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum and the Carter Center the people Jason Carter called the real keepers of my grandparents legacy. Well have many chances this week to pay tribute to my grandfather, but it was important for all of us that we stop here, Jason Carter said during Saturdays service. These buildings, as you all know, are filled with his life, not just because this is a museum to his life and not just because theres a collection here of his beloved paintings, but his spirit fills this place. And the real reason that this spirit fills this place is because of the people who are standing here. Gov. Brian Kemp shakes hands with Chip Carter, who is the oldest son of former President Jimmy Carter. (Photo by Ross Williams | Georgia Recorder) Georgia Recorder senior reporter Stanley Dunlap contributed to this report. This story was produced by the Georgia Recorder which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network, including the Daily Montanan, supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. The hearse carrying the late former President Jimmy Carter stopped briefly in front of the state Capitol on the journey to the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta. (Photo: Jill Nolin/Georgia Recorder) Former President Jimmy Carter may have only served one term as governor, but he left his mark in many ways before leaving for Washington, even literally. With a pencil, Carter signed the desk in the governors ceremonial office, starting a tradition that has been continued by his successors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Four of those governors who would go on to write their own signature on the desk three of them Republicans were among those who bundled up Saturday and stood outside the state Capitol as Carters motorcade made a brief and solemn ceremonial stop on its way to the Carter Presidential Center a few miles away. Then-Gov. Jimmy Carter started the tradition of signing the governors ceremonial desk. (Photo: Jill Nolin/Georgia Recorder) I think most of us felt like he had really fought for so long that there was a certain peace about that at that final moment in that regard, Sonny Perdue, a former governor who is now chancellor of the University System of Georgia, told reporters Saturday. But I think we looked at the pictures of him at his wifes funeral, and that wasnt the President Carter that I knew and the humanitarian that lived after that, Perdue said. Carter, who was a Democrat, died last Sunday at the age of 100 after being in hospice care for nearly two years. Former first lady Rosalynn Carter died late in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ceremonial stop at the state Capitol was part of the first of a six-day funeral procession that started Saturday in Americus and will culminate Thursday with services in Washington and finally back in Plains. Carter will lie in repose at the Carter Presidential Center until 6 a.m. Tuesday. Wendy Shaw, who lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, and her family were among the many out-of-towners who made their way to Atlanta this weekend for the former presidents funeral services. The family visited the state Capitol on Saturday morning and then proceeded to the Carter Presidential Center at night for Carters public visitation. The 56-year-old banker wanted to pay respect to her childhood hero. He was someone who I admired because of what he stood for politically and for being someone who championed causes that benefited people who were the most in need, Shaw said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the most part, Saturday was a reflection of Carters humble beginnings in rural Georgia and his time under the Gold Dome in Atlanta, where he served as a state senator and governor before winning a long-shot bid for president in 1976. Flowers and tributes adorn the sign at the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta. The late former President Jimmy Carter will lie in repose at the center until 6 a.m. Tuesday. The public can visit to pay their respects until then. (Photo: Stanley Dunlap/Georgia RecorderP Carters fingerprints can still be seen all over state government, including through the states education system he laid the groundwork for the states technical and vocational education system as well as Georgias kindergarten and pre-K programs and drastically restructured state government through a consolidation of agencies and boards. You might think about that as being like smaller government, but that wasnt his goal, said state Sen. Sally Harrell, an Atlanta Democrat who served alongside Carter-era lawmakers when she was in the state House. His goal was to have efficient government that served the people better. So that was always his goal is to have a government that is stronger for the people. That government still exists today, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harrell was among the dozens of state lawmakers who greeted Carters motorcade Saturday as it stopped in front of the state Capitol amid a bipartisan outpouring of tributes and reflections on Carters legacy. I think when people think about President Carter, they think about him being a compassionate, moral person, and I think thats what people are craving now, is to have another leader like him, Harrell said. Perdue argued the universal admiration seen in the last week says as much about the nation as it does Carter. I hope that says something about us as far as a country thats willing to recognize a great person, a great leader in that regard, and pay due respect to one irrespective of what partisan activity or area they were in that regard, I feel that way, Perdue said. Obviously, I have great respect for what he did not what party he belonged to, but what he created and did for mankind afterwards. Three former Georgia governors, including Republican Govs. Nathan Deal and Sonny Perdue, and Democrat Roy Barnes, paid their respects to Carter at the state Capitol on Saturday. (Photo: Jill Nolin/Georgia Recorder) Georgia Supreme Court Justice Charlie Bethel, a former GOP state senator who previously served alongside Carters grandson Jason Carter in the state Senate, said he felt sadness but also pride at the death of a man he tells his children is worthy of emulation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In our house, we dont do a lot of heroing, because human beings are flawed, but its nice to be able to point to somebody and say, if you want to live like another person, Jimmy Carter is one person its worth pursuing that as a goal, Bethel said Saturday. Georgias highest-ranking elected officials, who are all Republicans, were also at the state Capitol Saturday to honor Carter and to greet Jason Carter and Carters oldest son, Chip Carter. There was a lot of love on the side of the road, Chip Carter said during a private service at the Carter Presidential Center. Every overpass had people on it. It was amazing and gave you goosebumps just to sit in the van and see the reaction of those people of Georgia. The public visitation started Saturday evening after the private service, which was attended by staff of the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum and the Carter Center the people Jason Carter called the real keepers of my grandparents legacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Well have many chances this week to pay tribute to my grandfather, but it was important for all of us that we stop here, Jason Carter said during Saturdays service. These buildings, as you all know, are filled with his life, not just because this is a museum to his life and not just because theres a collection here of his beloved paintings, but his spirit fills this place. And the real reason that this spirit fills this place is because of the people who are standing here. Georgia Recorder senior reporter Stanley Dunlap contributed to this report. Gov. Brian Kemp shakes hands with Chip Carter, who is the oldest son of former President Jimmy Carter. (Photo: Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This report was first published by the Georgia Recorder, which line NC Newsline, is part of the national States Newsroom network. The former leader of the Proud Boys -- a group prosecutors say was central to the attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021 -- is asking President-elect Donald Trump for a pardon, according to a letter from his lawyer on Monday. Enrique Tarrio was sentenced to 22 years behind bars for his role in helping rally members of the far-right group to come to Washington in advance of Jan. 6, prosecutors say, with the goal of stopping the peaceful transition of power, that he monitored their movements and egged them on as they attacked the Capitol, and continued to celebrate their actions in the days after the insurrection. "Henry 'Enrique' Tarrio was portrayed throughout the government's case as a right-wing extremist that promoted a neo-fascist militant organization," Tarrio's lawyer, Nayib Hassan writes in a letter obtained by ABC News. "Henry is nothing more than a proud American that believes in true conservative values." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His lawyer writes that Tarrio is a "young man" with an "aspiring future" and that he wasn't even in Washington, D.C. on Jan. 6. PHOTO: Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio speaks at a rally in Delta Park on Sept. 26, 2020, in Portland, Ore. (Allison Dinner/AP) MORE: Where the Jan. 6 Capitol attack investigation stands, by the numbers: DOJ During his sentencing, prosecutors pointed to a nine-page strategic plan to "storm" government buildings in Washington on Jan. 6 that was found in Tarrio's possession after the riot, as well as violent rhetoric they say he routinely used in messages with other members of the group about what they would do if Congress moved forward in certifying President Joe Biden's election win. MORE: Proud Boys saw surge in membership after Trump's debate message, former member testifies Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tarrio, his lawyer argues, has been moved from various private and federal prisons and is often remanded to the Special Housing Unit which only allows someone to leave their cell once a day. "Granting this pardon would allow Henry to reintegrate into a family that is extremely supportive and would further demonstrate commitment to lawful, peaceful and constructive contributions," according to the letter. "It would also enable him to support his family fully and contribute meaningfully to the community." PHOTO: Supporters of President Donald Trump climb the west wall of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, Jan. 6, 2021. (Jose Luis Magana/AP) MORE: Trump's continuing effort to downplay Jan. 6 violence as 'day of love' During his sentencing hearing in September 2023, Tarrio apologized profusely for his actions and heaping praise on members of law enforcement who he said have been unfairly mistreated and maligned after the Jan. 6 attack -- which he called a "national embarrassment." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I will have to live with that shame and disappointment for the rest of my life," Tarrio said. "We invoked 1776 and the Constitution of the United States and that was so wrong to do. That was a perversion. The events of Jan. 6 is something that should never be celebrated." Presidential Pardon Letter[52] by Tom Dunlavey on Scribd Former Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio asks Trump for pardon originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Police clash with supporters of President Donald Trump during the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol. (Photo by Alex Kent/Tennessee Lookout) When Peter Ninemire was freed by presidential clemency from a federal prison where he was serving a 27-year sentence on drug charges, it was widely hailed as just the way such executive actions should work. If anybody deserved the presidential prerogative of mercy, as defined by the Supreme Court, it was Ninemire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A nonviolent offender who was described as having the most positive attitude of all the inmates at the minimum-security prison at Englewood, Colorado, Ninemire had resolved to use his time in prison to improve himself and others. He began a program to show at-risk youths what life in prison was really like, reported the Salina Journal. Even the judge who sentenced him, Richard Rogers, wrote a letter in support of Ninemires presidential clemency. Ninemire had served 10 years of his time for growing marijuana and other charges when Bill Clinton granted clemency in January 2001. Technically, it wasnt a pardon, but a commutation. Granting pardons and commutations is the most king-like of all presidential actions, enshrined in Article II of the Constitution and based on a benign quality of mercy reserved for the president alone. The Supreme Court defined that benign quality in 1866 and set only a few limits on its use. It cannot, for example, be used to escape impeachment. When Donald Trump is sworn in for his second term just over two weeks from now, one of the things to watch for is whether he will make good on his promise to pardon most of those charged with the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. The mobs goal was to disrupt a joint session of congress to count Electoral College votes and affirm the presidential election results. About 1,572 individuals were charged in the siege, according to the Department of Justice, and about 80% have since pleaded guilty or were convicted at trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the campaign, Trump cast the Jan. 6 insurrectionists as political prisoners and patriots who were pressured by prosecutors into accepting plea deals. Justice for All, a version of the national anthem sung by incarcerated Jan. 6 defendants over prison phone lines, became a staple at rallies. Never mind that 140 police officers were assaulted, the damage to the Capitol exceeded $2.8 million, and that at least seven people died as a result of the attack. For the most complete and authoritative account of the Jan. 6 insurrection, go to the House Select January 6 Committee Final Report. The expectation that Trump will pardon the insurrections casts a long shadow over American justice. Even his stated inclination to do so has a chilling political effect, because it lays bare his belief that his pardon power should be used not to show mercy or correct wrongs but to reward the faithful and justify their elevation to heroic status. Four years ago, we watched on television as the attack on the Capitol unfolded. It was brutal. Remember the police officers being crushed in doorways by the press of the crowd, rioters smashing windows to gain access, the flight of lawmakers to safety, the ropes to hang Mike Pence in effigy or for real? How about the shock of seeing a Confederate battle flag being paraded about the halls? Or when we learned Air Force veteran Ashli Babbitt, a Trump flag draped over her shoulders, was shot dead by a police officer when she attempted to break into a House area where lawmakers feared for their lives? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Surely, I recall thinking as I watched, this repulsive violence will end the Trump madness. But I underestimated madness. Instead, in the months and years that followed, the Trump movement became energized by the violence, recast in a false narrative that the rioters were the victims. With the tragic but legally defensible shooting of Babbitt, Trump had his first blood martyr. Reasonable people, however, were sickened by the violence and chaos. The violence and destruction of property at the U.S. Capitol building on Jan. 6 showed a blatant and appalling disregard for our institutions of government and the orderly administration of the democratic process, FBI Director Christopher Wray told Congress in June 2021. The FBI does not tolerate violent extremists who use the guise of First Amendment protected activity to engage in violent criminal activity. The destruction of property, violent assaults on law enforcement officers, and imminent physical threats to elected officials betray the values of our democracy. Now, those violent extremists may be rewarded by presidential pardon for their loyalty. While pardons have never been entirely free of politics, the scale of Trumps contemplated clemency is worthy of a banana republic dictator. That term, banana republic, was coined by short story writer O. Henry to describe his fictional and thoroughly corrupt state of Anchuria. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most notorious pardon in American political history is when Gerald Ford pardoned Richard Nixon in 1974 for all offenses against the United States that he committed or may have committed. Ford had assumed the presidency after Nixon had yielded to public pressure to resign following the Watergate scandal, in which Nixon and his aides had engaged in illegal campaign activity in 1972 and then attempted to cover it up. By accepting the pardon, Nixon publicly acknowledged his guilt. But in 1977 he told interviewer David Frost, speaking generally, that when the president does it, that means it is not illegal. This bit of Nixonian hubris is something the Supreme Court has recently made into law in Trump v. United States, which holds that presidents cannot be held legally accountable for official acts they commit as president. This gives presidents such broad power that Trump could hand out pardons for just about any reason as political favors, for his amusement, or even in exchange for a bribe and face no legal consequences. While we have yet to see how far Trump will take these new powers, the thought of such monarch-like authority is anathema to the ideal of American democracy. The presidents who made the widest use of the power to pardon were Andrew Johnson, who granted it to thousands of ex-Confederates after the Civil War, and Jimmy Carter, who pardoned by executive order more than 200,000 in his first day of office in 1977 for evading the draft during Vietnam. Both were attempts to heal the nation after a great division, with only marginal success. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Trumps Jan. 6 pardons would bring no healing. The wound was made all the deeper last month by President Joe Bidens pardon of his son Hunter, which after Fords pardon of Nixon may be the second-most notorious act of executive clemency on record (so far). While it is easy to understand a fathers love for his son, it is difficult to understand a president who betrays his principles to shield a family member. Even if you believe Hunter Biden was singled out for unfair prosecution because of his father which the White House claimed on official stationary theres the matter that Joe Biden went back on his word not to give Hunter Biden a pardon. In a spectacular bit of hypocrisy, Joe Biden lowered himself to the level of his opponent in claiming a weaponized prosecution. He also did serious damage to his legacy. All of the above brings me back to Ninemire, whose sentence on drug charges was commuted by Clinton. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The then-45-year-old Kansan, who grew up at Coffin Rock Ranch in Norton County up near the Nebraska line, had caught the mandatory minimum sentence for growing several hundred marijuana plants in northeast Kansas. He already had two prior marijuana convictions. He had been arrested in 1989, pleaded guilty in federal district court at Wichita, but skipped out on bail before sentencing. He faced a minimum of five years in prison, according to reporting by the Wichita Eagle. Ninemire was, for a time, was Kansas third-most wanted fugitive. The manhunt ended when federal agents staked out a home near Miami where they knew Richard Lacey, a Wichita drug trafficker who had also jumped bail. They also found Ninemire. Both were brought back from Florida without incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ninemire was sentenced to 322 months in prison for manufacturing marijuana and failing to appear, according to a Justice Department webpage. In that prison in Colorado, Ninemire began to turn his life around. After his release, he earned a masters degree in social work from Wichita State University, according to his website, and became a licensed specialist social worker helping others overcome their addictions to drugs and alcohol. Here I am today living the dream of helping others that I was so afraid to dream in prison, Ninemire posted on his site. Im here only because I gained recovery from drugs that allowed everything that is wonderful to happen in my life. Will anything wonderful happen if Trump pardons the Jan. 6 insurrectionists? It depends on how you define wonderful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While there would be few checks on Trumps power to grant pardons, the rules of clemency might present some challenges. While both pardons and commutations are forms of clemency, according to the U.S. Office of the Pardon Attorney, a commutation reduces a punishment but does not imply forgiveness or restore the civil rights lost on conviction, such as the right to vote or run for public office. Theres also the understanding, from a Supreme Court decision, that accepting a pardon is an admission of guilt a bitter pill that Nixon had to swallow back in 1974. This will likely be of little consequence for Trump supporters. Trump himself was convicted of 34 felony counts in a hush money trial, making him the first U.S. president with a rap sheet, but that did not seem to tarnish his appeal among supporters. When guilt is just another word for an allegedly weaponized justice system, where is the shame? We are poised to enter a period in American politics in which those with the least respect for the law have the most power over the institutions entrusted with preserving it. The prospective pardoning of the Jan. 6 insurrectionists is the passport to a land where justice is replaced by dull political brutishness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Welcome to Anchuria. May our stay be brief. A version of this commentary was first published by Kansas Reflector. Like Maine Morning Star, Kansas Reflector is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Kansas Reflector maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Sherman Smith for questions: info@kansasreflector.com. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE (Photo by Jerod MacDonald-Evoy/Arizona Mirror) Four years after rioters took over the U.S. Capitol, the political divide over what happened that day has grown wider and wider within Florida, including among its elected officials. Incoming President Donald Trump, who was impeached over what happened that day, has repeatedly played down the attack and has said he plans to pardon some who took part. Florida Democrats on Monday urged residents to remember the violence while underscoring their intent to certify the 2024 election results. Top Republicans, conversely, minimized gravity of the day that saw anywhere from 2,000 to 3,000 supporters of Trump storm in the Capitol in an effort to prevent certification of the 2020 election of Joe Biden. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We can never afford to forget how close we came to the end of the great American experiment or that it was the Republican Party that drove us to that cliff. 13 Florida Republicans voted to overrule the will of the people that day, and their actions continue to bring shame to the great state of Florida, Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried said in a prepared statement. There will be no such action from Florida Democrats today. No matter the results of the last election or the actions Donald Trump may take in his second term, Democrats will always fight to uphold our nations democratic values especially the peaceful transfer of power. Donald Trump and the leaders of the Republican Party are a danger to our democracy that can only be defeated at the ballot box. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson issued a statement beseeching people to never forget. Frederica Wilson. Credit: Twitter page To have lived it is to never ever forget it. Most Americans will never fathom what we experienced on that horrific day. They wanted to hang the Vice President and constructed a gallows to do so on the Capitol Complex. They sought to kill the Speaker of the House and to beat as many of us into submission if they could, she said in the prepared statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We ran and crawled on our knees to safety with the fear of death hanging over our heads. They left the statues in Statuary Hall broken and smeared with excrement and blood. Police officers were bloodied, beaten, battered, and died. It was like playing a role in a horror movie and hoping that it would soon come to an end. As far as I am concerned, it never ended. U.S. Rep. Darren Soto took to X to post a picture of himself trying to hide in the House gallery as insurrectionists besieged the chamber. Today, I will return to the House Chamber to certify the 2024 results. House Democrats honor the Constitution & accept the will of the people, Soto posted. Colossal waste of money Ahead of the Jan. 6 anniversary, Republican Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis, who hopes to replace former U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz in a special election, said if elected he would push to create a committee to investigate the House committee that investigated the actions of Trump and his supporters. In a statement, Patronis called the panel, which included former Republican U.S. Reps. Liz Cheney and Adam Kinzinger, a taxpayer subsidized monstrosity to go after President Trump, MAGA, and other Republicans. Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis. Credit: Florida Department of Financial Services It wasnt objective, it wasnt bipartisan, and it was led by Anti-Trumpers Liz Cheney and Adam Kinzinger who were both ran out of Congress. Representative Jim Jordan did amazing work with the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government and seeing as Liz Cheney was having ex-parte communications, we need to see what laws were violated and hold those accountable, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He referred to Republican-controlled House committee report that Cheney communicated with witness Cassidy Hutchinson without her lawyer knowing. Moreover, as this was a colossal waste of money, we need to take steps to ensure Congress never abuses taxpayer money in this manner ever again. Democratic U.S. Reps. Kathy Castor and Debbie Wasserman Schultz acknowledged the heroism of law enforcement officers who helped defend the Capitol in their social media posts. The heroism of @CapitolPolice and lives lost will never be forgotten, Castor, a Democrat who represents portions of Tampa and St. Petersburg, posted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Four years ago today, @CapitolPolice @DCPoliceDept and other law enforcement defended our capitol building and democracy from violent election deniers. Well never forget their bravery and sacrifice, Wasserman Schultz, a Democrat representing parts of Fort Lauderdale, posted on X. We thank these heroes as our peaceful democracy transfer continues today. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. It is wild that it has come to this: The fourth anniversary of the Jan. 6 insurrection will pass with the architect of that days terrible events having his victorious electoral count overseen by the woman whose vice presidency he tried to extrajudicially subvert before it started. A new Congress, now controlled by the insurrectionists allies but still full of people whose lives were threatened by the Donald Trumpinstigated mob, will prepare to do his bidding when he is sworn in in two weeks. And with that, the remaining legal efforts to hold him accountable for the attempted coup will disappear. Its not quite like observing 9/11 by inviting the surviving al-Qaida leaders to board ceremonial flights to New York and Washington, but its still pretty bad. The reality settling over the United States today is that the insurrectionists outmaneuvered both Democratic leaders and Americas antiquated laws and institutions, and now they will have an extended opportunity to show us all what weve won. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That this grim moment seemed unimaginable four years ago almost goes without saying. Even some Republicans leaders and commentators who had spent four years laundering Trumps vile indecency and explaining away each new assault on the countrys norms and institutions were momentarily chastened. Inside the Capitol, the insurrection was violent and terrifying and could have resulted in multiple members of Congress getting killed or wounded. But while it was shocking to watch, it was also bumbling and rudderless and rather obviously doomed. From the outside, it mostly looked like angry fans storming and looting the field and the clubhouse after their favorite team lost the Super Bowlbad, but also not likely to change the final score. Think about how low the MAGA movement was on that day and how desperate the outgoing president and his allies were for any way to prevent Joe Biden from taking office. Trump had already lost dozens of frivolous lawsuits in an effort to overturn the election; had fallen flat trying to enlist his own vice president, Mike Pence, in the effort to interfere with the counting of electoral votes; had tried and failed to install a loyalist willing to declare martial law atop the Department of Justice; and had become such a toxic force in his own party that he had helped cost Republicans the Senate in the double-barrel Georgia runoffs held just one day before. The mad king, alone in the alabaster castle from which he would soon be evicted, was isolated and desperate. The House Select Committee to investigate Jan. 6 and the many indictments related to it then showed just how responsible Trump was for it all. And yet somehow, over the course of Bidens four soporific years in the White House, Trump managed not only to get away with every last bit of it, but to in effect finish what he started on the Ellipse that daywith boosts from our collapsing legal system, an amnesia-riddled electorate, and contrarian broligarchs who saw in the declining, erratic Trump a unique opportunity to smash any remaining obstacles to their A.I. and cryptocurrency get-rich schemes. Books will be written about how this transpired, but its not actually that complicated. Virtually every person tasked with bringing Trump and his allies to justice for the effort to overturn the 2020 election trusted that some other institutions could get it done. In the Senate, GOP Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, who said that President Trump is practically and morally responsible for provoking the events of the day, made the fateful decision not to whip his caucus in favor of conviction after Trumps second impeachment in the House, saying publicly that the criminal and civil justice systems should be responsible for holding him accountable. Maybe he thought Trump had spent the last of his nine political lives. So Trump skated, again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Biden believed that his disastrous pick for attorney general (the one hes now leaking regrets to the press about picking), the timorous Merrick Garland, would take the lead on a fair-minded prosecution of the former president, but instead he inexplicably sat on his hands for almost two years and then dumped the job on special counsel Jack Smith following the 2022 midterms, displaying the same total lack of fighting spirit that he did when his Supreme Court seat was stolen from him by McConnell with hardly a single vocalized objection in 2016. By the time Smith got to work, voters were growing tired of Bidens rote, mumbling invocations of the horrors of Jan. 6. They were far more interested in hearing someone promise to reduce the price of eggs than in listening to talk about the sanctity of a democracy that had been failing them for more than two decades. The effort to rehabilitate and reinstall Trump in power got a generous assist from the GOPs ill-gotten 63 supermajority on an off-the-rails Supreme Court, which not only rescued Trump from the legal consequences of his actions but declared American presidents to be all but immortal. Perhaps Chief Justice John Roberts, who was shaken by the adverse public reaction to his decision in the Trump immunity case, according to CNNs Joan Biskupic, may have thought that the electorate would reject Trump, allowing prosecutions to move forward on the much more narrow terms the Supreme Court appeared to allow. But thats not the path that the voters chose. The people tasked with eliminating the threat that Donald Trump poses to American constitutional democracy were ultimately more worried about the perception of procedural fairness than about getting the job done. McConnell thought it was unfair and perhaps unconstitutional to convict a former president. Biden and Garland worried that an overly aggressive approach from the White House and the Department of Justice would delegitimize the justice system. Roberts, ostensibly concerned with his legacy and the courts legitimacy, worried that failing to grant broad immunity to presidents would open the door to tit-for-tat prosecutions of outgoing presidents. Meanwhile, Trump and his allies whined incessantly about weaponization of the Justice Department anyway and used by now standard and predictable Trump-era propaganda techniques to invert responsibility for Jan. 6anointing the rioters political prisoners and convincing rank-and-file Republicans that the whole thing was a partisan farce. The collective impact of all of this neurotic, overcautious hand-wringing was to communicate indifference to the voters. Sure, what Trump did was bad, their actions said, but not bad enough for a single institution of American national governance to officially declare him unfit for office or prohibit him from winning the presidency again. The voters still could have done what their vaunted institutions and timid leaders could notfirmly and unambiguously rejected the pathogen of Trump-led authoritarianism even at a time of broad dissatisfaction with Democratic rule. Instead they shrugged and unlocked the door for him to walk right back through. Rarely in American history has one man been so incontrovertibly responsible for an effort to destroy constitutional democracy, and yet in two weeks he will be sworn into an office that has been precleared by the Supreme Court for virtually unlimited mayhem and lawbreaking. The lesson here is that restraint in the pursuit of Trumpism is no virtue; a man who considers himself unbound by laws, precedent, institutions, and norms cannot be contained by them. PARIS (AP) Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy went on trial Monday over the alleged illegal financing of his 2007 presidential campaign by the government of then-Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi. Sarkozy, 69, who served as president from 2007 to 2012, did not speak to the press as he arrived at the court in Paris. He has denied any wrongdoing. The Libyan case, the biggest and possibly most shocking of several scandals involving him, is scheduled to run until April 10, with a verdict expected at a later date. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sarkozy faces charges of passive corruption, illegal campaign financing, concealment of embezzlement of public funds and criminal association, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. The trial involves 11 other defendants, including three former ministers. Franco-Lebanese businessman Ziad Takieddine, accused of having played the role of intermediary, has fled in Lebanon and did not appear at the Paris court. Sarkozy to show determination Sarkozy is looking forward to the hearings with determination, his lawyer Christophe Ingrain said in a statement. There is no Libyan financing of the campaign, the statement said. We want to believe the court will have the courage to examine the facts objectively, without being guided by the nebulous theory that poisoned the investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the court debated complex legal issues Monday, Sarkozy appeared both focused and nervous, fidgeting with his hands and feet as he sat in the dock. Anti-corruption groups Sherpa, Anticor and Transparency International joined the proceedings, stressing in a statement this alleged illegal financing shows the mechanisms of cross-border corruption, which deprives civilian populations of essential public resources by siphoning funds for the benefit of private and political interests. It is important that the issue of the victims of corruption is not left out of this trial, they said. Gadhafi's alleged agreement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The case emerged in March 2011, when a Libyan news agency reported that the Gadhafi government had financed Sarkozys 2007 campaign. In an interview, Gadhafi himself said its thanks to us that he reached the presidency. We provided him with the funds that allowed him to win, without providing any amount or other details. Sarkozy, who had welcomed Gadhafi to Paris with great honors in 2007, became one of the first Western leaders to push for a military intervention in Libya in March 2011, when Arab Spring pro-democracy protests swept the Arab world. Gadhafi was killed by opposition fighters in October that same year, ending his four-decade rule of the North African country. The next year, French online news site Mediapart published a document said to be a note from the Libyan secret services, mentioning Gadhafis agreement to provide Sarkozys campaign 50 million euros in financing. Sarkozy strongly rejected the accusations, calling the document a blatant fake and filing complaints for forgery, concealment and spreading false news. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, French investigative magistrates eventually said in 2016 the document has all the characteristics of authenticity, although there is no definitive evidence that such a transaction took place. The official cost for Sarkozys 2007 campaign was 20 million euros. Accusations of witness tampering French investigators scrutinized numerous trips to Libya made by people close to Sarkozy, then the interior minister, between 2005 and 2007, including his chief of staff Claude Gueant. They also noted dozens of meetings between Gueant and Takieddine, a key player in major French military contracts abroad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The investigation gained traction when Takieddine told news site Mediapart in 2016 that he had delivered three suitcases from Libya containing millions in cash to the French Interior Ministry. However, Takieddinne reversed his statement four years later. Since then, a separate investigation has been launched into alleged witness tampering as magistrates suspect an attempt to pressure Takieddine in order to clear Sarkozy. Sarkozy and his wife, former supermodel Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, were given preliminary charges as financial prosecutors said the former president is suspected of benefitting from corruptly influencing Takieddine. 11 other defendants Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The other accused are three former French ministers, including Gueant, and a former adviser close to Sarkozy. Like Takieddine, Franco-Algerian businessman Alexandre Djouhri is accused of having been an intermediary. The case also involves Gadhafis former chief of staff and treasurer Bashir Saleh, who sought refuge in France during the Libyan civil war, then moved to South Africa, where he survived a shooting in 2018, before settling in the United Arab Emirates. Saleh did not appear Monday at the Paris trial. Other defendants include two Saudi billionaires, a former Airbus executive and a former banker accused of having played a role in the alleged money transfers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shukri Ghanem, Gadhafis former oil minister who was also under suspicion, was found dead in the Danube River in Vienna in 2012 in unclear circumstances. French investigators were able to find Ghanems notebook, which is believed to document payments made by Libya. Gadhafi's spy chief and brother-in-law Abdullah al-Senoussi told investigative judges millions were indeed provided to support Sarkozys campaign. Accused of war crimes, he is now imprisoned in Libya. Sarkozy convicted in 2 other cases Sarkozy has been convicted in two other scandals yet the Libyan case appears as the one most likely to significantly affect his legacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Frances highest court, the Court of Cassation, last month upheld a conviction against Sarkozy of corruption and influence peddling while he was the head of state. He was sentenced to one year under house arrest with an electronic bracelet. The case was revealed as investigative judges were listening to wiretapped phone conversations during the Libya inquiry. In February last year, an appeals court in Paris found Sarkozy guilty of illegal campaign financing in his failed 2012 reelection bid. By Juliette Jabkhiro PARIS (Reuters) -Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy went on trial on Monday, on charges of having received millions of euros in illegal financing from Libya's late strongman Muammar Gaddafi for his successful 2007 presidential bid. Sarkozy, who was relaxed and chatting with lawyers and other defendants in the courtroom before the hearing started, has always denied the accusations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The conservative former leader faces charges of "concealment of embezzlement of public funds, passive corruption, illegal campaign financing and criminal conspiracy with a view to committing a crime," the financial prosecutor's office said. The trial, which begins at 1:30 p.m. (1230 GMT), will run over three months and risks further undermining public confidence in the French political class. Investigators allege he made a corrupt pact with the Libyan government. At issue is a murky affair alleged to involve Libyan spies, a convicted terrorist, arms dealers and allegations Gaddafi provided Sarkozy's campaign with millions of euros shipped to Paris in suitcases. Sarkozy's lawyer said the case against the former president was a fabrication and that there had been no Libyan financing of the campaign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "After 10 years of investigation, with an unprecedented deployment of resources, wiretaps, judges traveling abroad, all over the world, there is - obviously - no trace of financing, no transfer, no payment, not even an amount for the alleged financing," lawyer Christophe Ingrain said. If found guilty, Sarkozy could face up to 10 years in prison and 375,000 euros ($386,000) in fines. Sarkozy has in recent years faced a raft of legal battles. In December, France's highest court upheld his conviction for corruption and influence peddling to obtain favours from a judge. Sarkozy has been ordered to wear an electronic bracelet for a year instead of going to jail, a first for a French former head of state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In another case, Sarkozy was found guilty of concealing illegal campaign spending, and a challenge is pending. SPRAWLING INVESTIGATION Financial prosecutors say that in 2005, Sarkozy, then France's interior minister, brokered a deal with Gaddafi, to obtain campaign financing in exchange for supporting the government on the international scene where it was isolated. Gaddafi was deposed then killed in 2011. In 2012, French investigative website Mediapart published what it said was a note from Libyan intelligence services dated Dec. 2006 and mentioning Gaddafi's deal to help finance Sarkozy's presidential bid with millions of euros. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sarkozy said the document was fake. Investigative judges launched a probe in 2013. The convoluted case, linked to nine other legal proceedings, and for which investigators sent cooperation requests to more than 21 foreign countries to track the alleged funding through various middlemen and companies, reaches court more than a decade later. Among the 12 others facing trial in the case are Sarkozy's former right-hand man Claude Gueant, former Interior Minister Brice Hortefeux and his then-head of campaign financing Eric Woerth - all three were present in court on Monday. "This alleged illicit financing illustrates the mechanisms of cross-border corruption, which deprives civilian populations of essential public resources by diverting funds to private and political interests," anti-corruption groups Sherpa, Anticor and Transparency International said in a joint statement. ($1 = 0.9708 euros) (Reporting by Juliette Jabkhiro; editing by Richard Lough, Angus MacSwan and Bernadette Baum) In a bizarre move, Elon Musk has locked out a journalist from his X platformafter she published a story that seemed to exonerate him. On Sunday, Jacqueline Sweet, a journalist writing for The Spectator, had her X account suspended after she posted an article claiming that Musk wasnt using a burner account under the name Adrian Dittman, after she traced it to a German Musk fan in Fiji. Responding to her post, Musk replied I am Adrian Dittmann. Its time the world knew, before suspending her account for 30 days. The Dittman account has frequently responded to Musks posts and supported his political positions, and in videos and audio recordings, seemed to sound remarkably similar to Musk, complete with the tech moguls accent and unorthodox speaking cadence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sweets article has also been flagged on X, with users seeing a warning that the link may be unsafe if they click on it. Musk supporters have defended the move by claiming Sweets article included Dittmans personal informationeven though it contained no private identifying information whatsoever like his address or phone numberwhile critics have pointed out the irony of the self-proclaimed free speech champion Musk censoring an article that he doesnt like, pointing out how the tech CEO complained about Twitter censoring stories on Hunter Bidens laptop. The episode is only more bizarre because its not clear why Musk wants to bury this largely anodyne news story. This is the latest absurd chapter in Musks ownership of the social media platform. It is, by recent standards, which include arguing with his far-right ex-supporters over immigration policy and subsequently penalizing their X accounts after they began to attack him, less destructive but it nevertheless underscores the dangers of having one very rich, deranged person in charge of content moderation on a social media platform used by millions. A French energy giant has shut down a key North Sea hub amid growing concerns over the Governments windfall tax. Total Energies halted production at the Gryphon terminal, which is responsible for providing around 2pc of Britains oil and gas supplies, on New Years Day. The move will jeopardise output from five North Sea fields that rely on the Gryphon for processing, meaning an estimated 9m barrels of oil will remain untapped in the ageing basin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Treasury is also expected to miss out on 150m worth of tax receipts as a result of the shutdown. The Gryphon is a giant floating production, storage and offloading vessel (FPSO) anchored 200 miles north east of Aberdeen, processing oil and gas from five fields. Its gas has been piped to the UK to supply homes and businesses, while the oil was tankered to UK and European refineries. Its closure marks the latest blow to the North Sea, which is in rapid decline amid the Governments retreat from oil and gas. Sir Keir Starmers bid to achieve clean power by 2030 has already drawn scrutiny from many North Sea operators, while Donald Trump also weighed into the debate last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an outburst on social media, the president-elect said the UK was making a very big mistake by winding down its oil and gas production, as he urged the Prime Minister to open up the North Sea and get rid of windmills. Mr Trumps intervention is thought to have been influenced by Texas-based oil company Apaches decision to end all of its North Sea operations by 2029 in protest against successive tax raids. In the meantime, Apache will suffer from the Gryphons closure given that it remains a partner in the Maclure oil field, which is reliant on the hub for processing. However, the knock-on impacts from Totals decision extend much further. Four other fields are also expected to close, including North and South Gryphon, Ballindalloch and Tullich. All contain large amounts of recoverable oil and gas that will now stay in the ground. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Sea operator Nobel Upstream, which is a partner in the Ballindalloch and Maclure fields, has launched a legal challenge in a last-ditch attempt to halt the process, suing the North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA) over its decision to approve Totals decommissioning plans. Larry Bates, the chief executive of Nobel Upstream, said: Halting oil and gas production from Gryphon and the associated fields means the UK starts 2025 with an immediate loss of more than 2pc of domestic oil and gas supply, and an astounding loss of roughly 150m in tax receipts to HM Treasury to end of 2027, both clearly contrary to the national interest. Nobel Upstream owns and operates oil and gas wells across three continents, but the hostile UK environment makes investment impossible. Mr Bates said Nobel would use all legal means necessary to fight the closure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The UK should be thankful that its North Sea waters contain such bountiful resources, not penalise itself for its good fortune, he said. The impact of the closure could also extend to the North Sea pipeline network. The gas from the Gryphon is piped north to Apaches Beryl field, where it is funneled into the 200-mile Sage pipeline network. Sage takes gas from 46 North Sea fields to St Fergus in Scotland to supply the UK gas grid. The loss of gas from Gryphon will mean reduced flows that could affect profits. Gryphon processed around 3pc of UK oil last year and 1pc of gas, according to industry experts. The latter is enough to supply about 260,000 homes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Claire Coutinho, the shadow energy secretary, said: No other major economy is shutting down its domestic oil and gas production. Ed Milibands ideological opposition to the North Sea is going to cost the country 12bn in tax receipts, thousands of jobs and leave us dependent on foreign imports with higher emissions. Its complete insanity. Analyst Daniel Slater, the director of research at Zeus Capital, added: Shutting down any UK production, if it is generating positive cash flows, is a negative. It will concern the Exchequer, not just from the tax revenues forgone, but the potential decommissioning costs, which could necessitate a cash contribution towards from the Treasury. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its also clearly bad for energy security and our imports bill, as the UK gets over 70pc of its total energy from oil and gas. Its hard to believe that UK government decisions and the energy profits levy [windfall tax] wont have played into the operators decision here. The windfall tax, introduced by the Conservative government in 2022 and extended by Labour, imposes a 78pc tax on UK oil and gas production profits. Mr Milibands Department for Energy Security and Net Zero said the decision to shut down Gryphon was a commercial decision by Total. Total declined to comment. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) Funeral services are held today in Geneva for Former Lt. Governor of New York Mary Anne Krupsak. Krupsak passed away on December 8, 2024, at her home on Seneca Lake. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in her honor at St. Francis De Sales Church on Exchange Street. She will be buried at Fort Hill Cemetery in Auburn. Her obituary honors her as a trailblazing figure in the fight for womens rights. After working for the NYS Department of Commerce and under Governor W. Averell Harriman, she became a member of the NYS Assembly from 1969 through 1973 and the state senate from 1973 to 1975. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the Democratic primary of 1974, she beat Mario Cuomo to be elected Lieutenant Governor of New York. She was the first woman to be elected to that position in New York. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Monday morning. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A Gary man with a 1989 child molesting conviction on his record was charged Saturday after briefly attending grandparents day in October at a Merrillville charter school, court records show. Stafford Henderson, 66, was charged with one unlawful entry by a serious sex offender. He has not been apprehended. When arrested, he is ordered held on a $10,000, or $1,000 cash surety bond. Merrillville Police responded at 10:12 a.m. Oct. 2 to the Higher Institute of Arts and Technology, 5861 Harrison St. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court documents show Henderson was flagged when his identification card was scanned at the door. He told a security guard he had to use the bathroom, then left before police arrived. Principal Tensia Johnson told officers Henderson barely got in the door and had no contact with any children. Henderson received one year of probation in Lake County in February 2023 for failing to register as a sex offender, filings show. He was convicted in Cobb County, Georgia of molesting an 11-year-old child in 1989. Henderson is required to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life. mcolias@post-trib.com Last week, Chilean President Gabriel Boric became the first Latin American leader to visit the South Pole. Boric traveled from Punta Arenas, his home region at the southern tip of Chile, to Chiles Union Glacier Station in Antarctica on board a military C-130. He then spent several hours visiting the U.S. Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station before returning home. Boric brought his ministers of environment and defense on the trip, symbolic of the strategic concerns currently playing out on the polar continent. On the environment, climate change is drastically altering weather patterns and the ecosystems around the Antarctic, putting fisheries and wildlife preservation at risk and reshaping the land on which Chile has a claim. Changes in Antarctic ice melt directly affect Chiles coastal communities and marine resources. And the vast majority of tourists and researchers who travel to Antarctica make the trip through South America, adding to the potential economic impact of a changing climate there. Meanwhile, flying down on a military aircraft and bringing the countrys minister of defense demonstrates the very real power politics behind the trip, which Boric called a confirmation of [Chiles] claim to sovereignty over part of Antarctica. Chile is one of seven countries to make such claims. While none of them are recognized by the broader international community, Chiles geographical proximity to the continent have historically increased the importance of its claims to the countrys leadership and population, while also giving rise to real security concerns compared to other countries with claims, like the U.K. and Norway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of the optics of Borics trip have to do with local disputes within Latin America. Chile and Argentina have long been geopolitical rivals in Antarctica, with both countries making claims to overlapping territory on the Antarctic peninsula, one of the continents most accessible parts where numerous scientific research bases are located. Last year, Argentine President Javier Milei invited the then-commander of the U.S. militarys Southern Command, Gen. Laura Richardson, to Ushuaia at the southern tip of Argentina to encourage U.S. engagement on geopolitical issues in the region. To get more in-depth news and expert analysis on global affairs from WPR, sign up for our free Daily Review newsletter. But that neighborly dispute between Chile and Argentina has been relatively peaceful for decades and was probably not the primary issue driving Borics trip. Instead, Boric is concerned about how renewed great power competition is playing out on the continent. The Antarctic Treaty signed in 1959 halted the potential spread of Cold War competition and militarization to the continent for decades. However, in the post-Cold War world, various global powers have gradually chipped away at the edges of the treaty in search of a better foothold in the region. While no military bases have been established in Antarctica, research outposts by numerous countries serve as de facto markers of their presence on the continent. The ability to access Antarctica for research or rescue operations can also be seen as a signal of global military capabilities that could be useful in a conflict situation. The Antarctic is not the geopolitical hotspot that the Arctic Circle has become, but it is still attracting significant interest from the United States, Russia and China, among others. The Antarctic is not the geopolitical hotspot that the Arctic Circle has become, but it is still attracting significant interest from the United States, Russia and China, among others. In addition to its growing network of research stations, China operates the largest fishing fleet in Antarctic waters, with large factory ships capable of processing catch directly at sea. China has been steadily increasing this fishing capacity and infrastructure, including building new specialized vessels to go after krill, which is an essential food at the base of the pyramid for whales, seals, penguins and other marine life. And unlike many nations that fish seasonally in the region, China maintains near-continuous year-round fishing operations that are still expanding. At a smaller scale than in the South China Sea, China uses this fishing fleet as a way to maintain a continuous presence in Antarctic waters and ensure it remains a key part of any global conversation about the continent. And the potential impact of industrial-scale fishing on ecosystems that are already stressed due to climate change is obvious. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though oil and gas exploration and mining have been banned on Antarctica by treaty, Russia appears interested in exploring extractive industries there so it can take advantage should the international rules and norms regarding the continent begin to weaken. Russia has been active in Antarctica since the 1950s, and the concerns about the U.S.-Soviet Cold War rivalry extending to the continent are one reason the Antarctic Treaty was first negotiated. Despite the treatys prohibition on mineral exploitation, Russia now conducts geological surveys under the guise of scientific research to actively map and assess mineral deposits, and Moscow has publicly questioned the permanence of the mining ban, which extends until 2048. The United States presence in Antarctica is more legitimately research-focused, but its network of research stations and scientists there can also be seen as part of U.S. global power projection. In a world where Washington views Chinese and Russian influence as a driving concern in every domain, the U.S. has demonstrated an interest in keeping its research stations operatingand its military capable of reaching those stationsto counter the Chinese and Russian push into this sphere. Chinas fishing fleets and Russias resource exploration are pushing the boundaries of acceptable activity under the Antarctic Treaty, even as the U.S. response, though for now restrained, signals that great power competition is occurring in a de facto manner. Against that background, countries like Chile find themselves in the increasingly complex position of trying to maintain their historical territorial claims in Antarctica while simultaneously working to preserve the international framework that has kept the continent peaceful, demilitarized and protected for over 60 years. Boric is correct to maintain Chiles reasonable and self-interested hypocrisy of promoting its own claims while resisting efforts by larger countries in the Northern Hemisphere to compete for influence in the southernmost continent. After elections later this year, Chiles next president will similarly struggle to maintain the countrys relevance in Antarctica against the encroachment of great powers. But the limited scale of Borics trip also highlights that Chiles position isnt backed up by much military might or economic influence, especially compared to great powers that can outspend and outmaneuver countries in the Global South. Whatever diplomatic leverage it has on the issue is primarily due to its geographic proximity and not much else. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement James Bosworth is the founder of Hxagon, a firm that does political risk analysis and bespoke research in emerging and frontier markets, as well as a global fellow at the Wilson Centers Latin America Program. He has two decades of experience analyzing politics, economics and security in Latin America and the Caribbean. The post Geopolitical Competition Is Heating Up in Antarctica appeared first on World Politics Review. COLOGNE, Germany The German army has received parliamentary approval to buy an initial batch of Elbit-made PULS rocket artillery systems, a decision that could see Berlin look to European munitions suppliers in the future. The move, announced just before the Christmas holidays as part of a larger raft of funding approvals for Germanys armed forces, means the Bundeswehr can spend roughly 65 million, or $68 million USD, on five systems. The PULS pick, offered by Elbit in conjunction with German-French contractor KNDS, puts an end, for now, to a highly contested race for Germanys next-generation, multiple-rocket launcher system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall had pitched a competing offer, named GMARS, that came with the lineup of Lockheeds munitions offerings, including the ubiquitous Guided MLRS rockets, baked into it. In the end, the Lockheed-Rheinmetall offer wasnt far enough along, a German Ministry of Defense spokesman told Defense News. A usable prototype was not available, the spokesman said. The decision in favor of PULS is meant to deepen cooperation between German artillery forces and those of the neighboring Netherlands, which has previously purchased the Israeli product and whose contract provides a piggybacking option for Germanys impending buy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Dutch army is deeply integrated into German army structures, and the use of a common weapon system will enable further cooperation, the spokesman wrote in response to a reporters questions. The PULS, which is short for Precise and Universal Launching System, allows for the deployment of a national fire-control system, thereby enabling user nations to pick their own munition types for integration, the spokesman added. Whether that includes GMLRS rockets, donated by the United States to Ukraine and resident in the stocks of many NATO nations, remains an open question. Military decision makers in Berlin are banking on a promise from Elbit that the weapons, in the Unitary variant, can be shot with the PULS fire-control software. But Washingtons political approval is also needed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Germany is in close coordination with the United States to that end, the spokesman in Berlin said. Last summer, Lockheed executive Howard Bromberg, vice president of strategy and business development for land forces, categorically denied that possibility. Our MLRS Family of Munitions cannot be integrated into the PULS system if Germany was to opt for PULS they could not gain access to our missiles, he told Defense News on the sidelines of the Eurosatory defense trade show in Paris. The same would apply to the U.S. Armys newer Precision Strike Missile, which boasts a range of 500 kilometers and more, according to the company. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its unclear how prominent the assured access to Lockheed rockets is in Germanys long-term defense planning, as German and European manufacturers have adjusted to a surge in demand for munitions of all ranges and propulsion types, guided and unguided. In September, Elbit and Germanys Diehl Defence signed a cooperation agreement tailored to PULS users in Europe and Germany in particular. In addition, pan-European missile maker MBDA is jockeying for position in the emerging market of longer-range weapons, deemed a critical element of Europes deterrence posture vis-a-vis Russia. Germany's civil servants' union dbb on Monday called on Interior Minister Nancy Faeser to present public sector workers with a serious offer ahead of collective bargaining negotiations. "Every income round is an opportunity to make the public sector more attractive," dbb Vice President Volker Geyer said at the union's annual conference in Cologne. Collective bargaining talks are due to begin for federal and municipal employees on January 24, affecting local transport, refuse collection, town halls and numerous other sectors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the dbb, more than 2.6 million employees are directly or indirectly affected by the collective agreement, to be negotiated in the eastern city of Potsdam, near Berlin. Three rounds of negotiations have been scheduled, with warning strikes expected in some municipalities. Along with the verdi trade union, the dbb is demanding a pay rise of 8% and at least 350 ($362) more per month, for a term of 12 months. However, unlike in the most recent rounds for the public sector, this time the unions are also aiming for more flexibility on working hours, said Geyer. "When it comes to sovereignty over working time, we lag miles behind the private economy," added Geyer, who was standing in for the union's leader Ulrich Siberbach due to illness. Addressing Faeser, who attended the conference after missing it last year, Geyer said: "Don't wait until the third round to make us an offer again. That doesn't do justice to the situation." LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A young couple from Germany traveled to Las Vegas to get hitched. Yet, they almost missed their wedding after Wednesdays Tesla Cybertruck explosion at the Trump International Hotel. Ian Rasshofer, 24, and Johanna Emde, 22, arrived in Las Vegas last week to elope. Germany is very expensive. A huge marriage is very expensive, so we decided to spend the money for just us two and do a holiday here, Emde said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The couple was staying at the Trump tower, and 8 News Now first spoke to them Wednesday after they evacuated from the hotel. We couldnt get back in to get our clothing for the wedding and we also dont have our passports, and anything, Rasshofer said. They were set to tie the knot that afternoon and began to worry their wedding might not take place. Having traveled all the way from a town outside Munich to whats often called the marriage capital of the United States. The employees and police didnt know what to do next, so we called our wedding planner in Germany, Rasshofer said. A thousand miles away, their wedding planner secured a ride to their venue Bliss Chapel located in the Arts District and found a stylist for Johanna. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It made me a bit sad at the beginning, but we made the best of the situation, I guess, Emde said. Rassofer agreed. Its definitely a story. Ian Rasshofer, 24, and Johanna Emde, 22, arrived in Las Vegas last week to elope. (Ian Rasshofer) Photos taken at Bliss Chapel showed Ian and Johanna married in a t-shirt and blouse. Their pictures turned out far different than what they dreamt of when they were in Munich and planned a Vegas-style wedding. Bliss Chapel allowed the couple to marry without a marriage license. But once they were able to get back inside the Trump hotel, Ian said they retrieved their wedding license and returned to Bliss, where it was signed. As for the unused gown and tux. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are already planning to do a photoshoot at our home with her horse and our cats, Ian Rasshofer said. It is not what the couple had expected, but with any marriage, one has to learn to deal with the unexpected. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The separate rape conviction from 2019 against the chief suspect in the Madeleine McCann case was upheld by a German court on Monday. The legal team of defendant Christian B, who is not identified by his full name in line with German privacy rules, again failed in its bid to reopen the proceedings. The court ruled that no grounds for a retrial had been presented, a spokeswoman for the Gottingen Regional Court in Lower Saxony told dpa. The guilty verdict is therefore still valid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Christian B is currently still serving a prison sentence for the rape of a 72-year-old US woman in Portugal, handed down to him by the Braunschweig Regional Court in 2019. The numerous legal proceedings against him have long been the focus of international media attention because the 48-year-old German is suspected of murder in the case of 3-year-old Madeleine McCann, who vanished from a Portuguese holiday resort in 2007. However, there are no charges in the McCann case and the presumption of innocence applies. At the beginning of October, the sex offender, who had several previous convictions, was acquitted of the charges of three rapes and two cases of child sexual abuse after a high-profile trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The presiding judge said at the time that there was not enough evidence to convict him. The appeal against this judgement is currently under way and will be reviewed for legal errors. Following the acquittal, the defence sought a retrial of the 2019 case for the third time, arguing, among other things, that the witnesses were not credible. Europe is burning through its gas reserves at the fastest pace in seven years, leaving Germany acutely exposed as cold weather sweeps the Continent. Stockpiles have dropped more quickly than at any point since 2018, falling 25pc from their peak, according to Gas Infrastructure Europe data compiled by Bloomberg. Storage sites are just over 70pc full across Europe, compared to about 86pc a year ago, after temperatures dropped over the weekend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Forecasters predict freezing conditions from Spain across to Poland and Ukraine this week, leaving gas prices hovering around their highest level in more than a year. Prices rose by 4pc last week. Germany suffered the largest drop in its gas stockpiles among its European peers, with storage sites 78pc full compared to 81pc a week earlier, which was in line with the average for the time of year. Frances gas reserves are at just 57pc capacity, compared to a five-year average of 75pc for this time of year. Britains storage sites are about 55pc full. Economists warned the fall in gas storage levels could keep prices higher through the summer, when countries begin replenishing their stocks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hamad Hussain, of Capital Economics, said: Given that the sharp fall in gas storage levels will probably continue, natural gas demand may remain relatively strong in spring and summer when European countries turn their attention to refilling gas inventories. In turn, this will limit the extent to which European natural gas prices could fall this year. The impact of high natural gas prices would be felt acutely in Germany given the large size of its energy-intensive manufacturing industry. Samantha Dart, of Goldman Sachs, said: The lower that end-March storage levels are, the harder it will be for the region to refill ahead of the next winter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Specifically, under the colder-than-average scenario that is currently forecast. The sharp rise in gas prices follows the Dunkelflaute experienced in Europe at the end of last year, a weather phenomenon where low winds and heavy clouds impact power generation from renewable energy sources. Florence Schmit, of Rabobank, said: While these price increases will be felt across Europe, countries with higher storage requirements and high gas demand also in summer, like Germany and Italy, will be more exposed to these price shocks. European gas prices have already been stretched after Ukraine last week closed off the last route allowing Russia to sell gas to Europe through its territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The expiry of a deal to use the Urengoy-Pomary-Uzhhorod pipeline for transit has dealt a blow to Vladimir Putins war machine but also created fresh supply headaches for a handful of European countries that remain dependent on the Kremlin, pushing up gas prices across the whole Continent including in Britain. Kremlin-backed supplier Gazprom sold about $6bn (4.8bn) worth of gas through Ukraine in 2024, according to Bloomberg. Analysts estimate the closure of the Ukrainian pipeline will deliver a hit equivalent to about 0.2pc to 0.3pc of Russias gross domestic product, according to various analyst estimates. However, Europe is increasingly exposed to market volatility as it relies on global liquefied natural gas to replace the shortfall left by the end of Russian pipeline flows. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tatiana Orlova, an economist at Oxford Economics, said: Europe will still need gas as all its efforts to wean itself from Russian gas have not been successful. She warned that European countries will probably end up buying more Russian LNG to make up for the drop in natural gas imports from Russia. Rabobanks Ms Schmit added: Slovakia and Austria now rely on imports from countries like Germany and Italy, who have access to LNG. If prices start to rise in these two markets, they will also rise further east to allow for gas flows to make it there. The Department for Transport said the Government is committed to enhancing Britains transport infrastructure as part of its mission to grow the economy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesman said: We hope to partner with anyone who can contribute to our work to deliver more reliable and cleaner railways for passengers, which we will consider carefully as part of our spending review preparations. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Germany's opposition leader Friedrich Merz has caused a stir with a new proposal to reform the law on citizenship. "Friedrich Merz is deliberately playing with right-wing populist fire and is not suitable as chancellor for all Germans," said Saskia Esken, the co-leader of Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Social Democratic Party (SPD), on Monday. Merz - the centre-right CDU/CSU bloc's candidate for chancellor - told the Sunday edition of the Welt newspaper that dual citizenship should be limited and reversible in case of criminal offences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are bringing additional problems into the country," said Merz. "It should at least be possible to revoke German citizenship at the same level if we recognize that we have made a mistake with people who have committed criminal offences." Esken told the Stern magazine that the demands would turn naturalized Germans into "second-class citizens." Marcel Fratzscher from the German Institute for Economic Research wrote on the LinkedIn social media platform that the measure would "lead to a two-tier society" among German citizens. Dual citizenship has been easier to acquire in Germany since last year after Scholz's government passed a reform to the Nationality Act. The measure also allowed well-integrated residents to acquire German citizenship in just five years, down from eight. BERLIN (Reuters) - Germany saw a jump in cases of crime attributed to the far right in 2024, driven largely by online offences and hate speech, a government spokesperson said on Monday. Up to Nov. 30, there were 33,963 registered cases of right-wing politically motivated crime, the spokesperson said, citing the most current data for last year. This compared with 28,945 such cases during the whole of 2023. "At this point in time, we can already say that there has been an increase in online offences in particular, especially so-called expression and propaganda offences," the spokesperson told a press conference in Berlin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This was due in part to a greater focus by authorities on this form of criminal activity in recent years, he added, describing the figures as nonetheless "alarming". Of the cases registered during the 11-month period of 2024, 1,136 were violent crimes, compared with 1,270 during the whole of 2023, according to the data. The German government has repeatedly warned of an uptick in politically motivated crimes linked to tensions over the war in Gaza. Germany is also gearing up for federal elections next month, in which the far-right is polling strongly, buoyed by concerns over security and migration. (Reporting by Rachel More, Editing by Friederike Heine) The anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has welcomed the mandate received by the far-right Freedom Party of Austria (FPO) to form a government in Vienna. The AfD's candidate for chancellor, Alice Weidel, said on Monday that events in Austria should convince Germany's conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU) to abandon their so-called "firewall" preventing cooperation with the AfD. "The last hour of the 'firewall' will soon come for us too," said Weidel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Austrian President Alexander van der Bellen officially tasked the Freedom Party of Austria (FPO) with forming a government on Monday after meeting its leader Herbert Kickl. The decision came after Christian Stocker, the newly designated leader of the conservative Austrian People's Party (OVP), said on Sunday that his party is prepared to engage in negotiations with Kickl, months after the FPO won parliamentary elections. Stocker was appointed by his party after Chancellor Karl Nehammer announced his resignation on Saturday following the collapse of previous coalition negotiations with centrist parties. The CDU and its sister party in Bavaria, the Christian Social Union, have consistently ruled out cooperating with the AfD should the opportunity arise following next month's early elections in Germany. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Weidel said the success of the FPO - which the AfD sees as a "sister party" - should serve as a warning to Friedrich Merz, the CDU/CSU candidate for chancellor. The Weidel said voters do not want coalitions "in which left-wing parties set the tone" if the CDU/CSU and AfD have a majority of seats in parliament. Germany's Green Party kicked off its election campaign on Monday with sharp criticism of its rivals. "Friedrich Merz is extremely good at describing problems," party leader Felix Banaszak said at the party's election campaign launch in the northern city of Lubeck, referring to the leader of the opposition Christian Democrats (CDU), which is currently riding high in the polls. Chancellor Olaf Scholz of the Social Democrats (SPD), on the other hand, "gazes at problems in silence," Banaszak said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Robert Habeck, the Green Party's top candidate for the election, solves them, Banaszak concluded. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock also criticized Scholz for his reaction to verbal attacks by US billionaire and Tesla boss Elon Musk, who is a close adviser to US President-elect Donald Trump. Baerbock's said Scholz's comments that one had to "stay cool" in the face of such attacks reminded her of the insistence that the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Germany and Russia was "just another economic project." Everyone makes mistakes from time to time, the foreign minister said, "but making the same mistake twice is negligent." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk has launched a number of personal insults at German politicians on his social media platform X, most recently calling German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier "an anti-democratic tyrant" last week. The top bidder at a Tokyo fish market said they paid $1.3 million for a tuna on Sunday, the second highest price ever paid at an annual prestigious new year auction. Michelin-starred sushi restauranteurs the Onodera Group said they paid 207 million yen for the 608-pound bluefin tuna, roughly the size and weight of a motorcycle. It is the second highest price paid at the opening auction of the year in Tokyo's main fish market since comparable data started being collected in 1999. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The powerful buyers have now paid the top price for five years straight winning bragging rights and a lucrative frenzy of media attention in Japan. A 276-kilogram bluefin tuna that was auctioned for 207 million Japanese yen (about $1.3 million) is carried into an Onodera sushi restaurant after the first tuna auction of the New Year in Tokyo, Japan, Jan. 5, 2025. / Credit: Issei Kato/REUTERS "The first tuna is something meant to bring in good fortune," Onodera official Shinji Nagao told reporters after the auction. "Our wish is that people will eat this and have a wonderful year." The Onodera Group paid 114 million yen for the top tuna last year. But the highest ever auction price was 333.6 million yen for a 612-pound bluefin in 2019, as the fish market was moved from its traditional Tsukiji area to a modern facility in nearby Toyosu. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The record bid was made by self-proclaimed "Tuna King" Kiyoshi Kimura, who operates the Sushi Zanmai national restaurant chain. During the COVID -19 pandemic, the new year tunas commanded only a fraction of their usual top prices, as the public were discouraged from dining out and restaurants had limited operations. The head of a 276-kilogram bluefin tuna that was auctioned for 207 million Japanese yen (about $1.3 million) is carried by a sushi chef at an Onodera sushi restaurant after the first tuna auction of the New Year in Tokyo, Japan, Jan. 5, 2025. / Credit: Issei Kato/REUTERS Pacific bluefin tuna are the largest species of tuna in the Pacific with adults reaching nearly 10 feet in length and 1,000 pounds. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies the Pacific bluefin tuna as vulnerable. However, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the fish's population has been increasing in recent years. An assessment released in June found that the Pacific bluefin tuna "exceeded international targets a decade ahead of schedule," NOAA said. Justin Trudeau announces he'll resign as prime minister of Canada Judge denies Trump's request to delay "hush money" case sentencing D.C. prepares to receive Jimmy Carter's casket New York Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D) has been tapped by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (N.Y.) to head the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, the Senate Democrats campaign arm, for the next two years. I am incredibly honored to serve as DSCC chair for the 2026 cycle. From now until Election Day, I will work my hardest to support our Democratic incumbents, recruit the strongest possible candidates, and ensure they have every resource needed to win, Gillibrand said in a statement. Gillibrand was the only Senate Democrat who expressed interest in the job to colleagues, according to several Democratic senators familiar with the internal discussion about the tough campaign assignment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She will work closely with Schumer, who takes a hands-on rule in recruiting candidates and setting Senate Democrats campaign messaging strategy. Her role as the junior senator from New York will allow her to tap Wall Street and other wealthy sectors for contributions. She ran for president ahead of the 2020 election but dropped out after failing to gain much traction with Democratic primary voters. Democrats need to pick up four Senate seats to regain the majority as long as President-elect Trump controls the White House and Vice President-elect JD Vance casts the tiebreaking vote in the Senate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gillibrand doesnt have an easy job winning back the majority as she has to defend vulnerable Sen. Jon Ossoff (D) in Georgia and doesnt have many promising Republican-held seats to target. Sens. Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) will be two of the Democrats top targets, but neither of them will be easy to beat. Collins won reelection in 2020 by 9 percentage points despite President Biden beating Trump by 9 points in Maine that year. Vice President Harris carried the state with a 7-point margin of victory in November. Beating Tillis in North Carolina will be another tall order, given Tilliss strong name identification across the state after serving two terms in the U.S. Senate and four years as speaker of the North Carolina House of Representatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats havent held either of North Carolinas Senate seats since Sen. Kay Hagan (D-N.C.) lost reelection to Tillis in 2014. Democrats havent carried the Tar Heel State in the presidential election since President Obama narrowly won it in 2008. It has voted for the Republican nominee for president in every other election from 1980 to 2024. Democrats may take a serious shot at knocking off Sens. Joni Ernst (R) in Iowa and John Cornyn (R) in Texas, but both states are reliably Republican. Ernst won reelection in 2020 by 6 points, and Trump carried the Hawkeye State by 13 percentage points over Harris in 2024 despite an outlier poll by the Des Moines Register in November that showed Harris ahead by 3 points in the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ernst said last year that she would seek a third term in 2026. Democrats made a lot of noise about the 2024 Texas Senate race and have predicted for years that the Lone Star State will eventually turn blue. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) ended up cruising to victory over former Rep. Colin Allred (D-Texas) by a 9-point margin. Cornyn, who was first elected to the Senate in 2002, would be very difficult to beat in a general election. He is one of the biggest fundraisers in the Senate Republican Conference and is one of the most recognized political names in Texas. He narrowly lost a race against Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) in November to serve as Senate majority leader. He said will seek another six-year term in 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 federal judge held Rudy Giuliani in civil contempt of court twice Monday for failing to adequately respond to requests for documents and information sought by two Georgia women who won a $148 million defamation verdict against him in 2023. Although U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman had the power to jail Giuliani for his defiance of court orders, the judge stopped short of that penalty. Instead, Liman declared that Giuliani can no longer present the central legal defense that could have allowed the former New York City mayor to avoid handing over his Palm Beach condo to the two women, Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss. Freeman and Moss have spent months trying to seize the condo and Giulianis other valuable assets as they attempt to recover the massive sum he owes them. But they say Giuliani has been recalcitrant in responding to mandatory requests about his property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Freeman and Moss won the defamation judgment when a jury found that Giuliani falsely accused them of election fraud after the 2020 election. The two women, who are mother and daughter, were tormented by harassment and death threats after Giuliani spread lies about them. Giuliani has refused to respond to their requests for certain information related to his whereabouts and lifestyle that might help determine whether he truly made the Palm Beach condo his primary residence, as he has claimed. The information requests included lists of doctors and lawyers with whom he has consulted in recent years, as well as the identity of email, messaging or other communications accounts. As a result, Liman found Giuliani in contempt and limited what evidence he can present in his defense at a trial scheduled for next week over whether he can keep the condo. And Liman, who will oversee and decide the outcome of the trial, signaled that he will conclude that Giuliani doesnt have certain information to support his claim that the condo was his primary residence. Those two penalties will put Giuliani in dire jeopardy of having to forfeit the property, his last remaining residence, to the women. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Defendant willfully violated the clear and unambiguous order of the court, Liman said Monday, adding that he takes judicial notice of the fact that [Giuliani] was until recently a barred attorney. The former New York City mayor testified during the contempt hearing, appearing in person in federal court on Friday and continuing his testimony virtually when it continued Monday. Though he attempted to offer explanations for his failure to produce the information or documents, Liman said he found the responses insufficient even preposterous. At one point, Giuliani defended his actions by saying he was skeptical of the motives of the plaintiffs attorneys. Liman said Monday that such concern is not an excuse for violating the courts orders. It was not an excuse to take the law into his own hands, Liman said of Giuliani. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Liman noted that Giuliani, in his testimony, had expressed worry about the security of his communications and that his personal contact information could be exposed. But when a plaintiffs attorney inadvertently displayed a document Friday that showed Giulianis email address and phone number, it was Liman, not Giuliani, the judge noted Monday, who asked her to remove it from view. Liman held Giuliani in contempt a second time Monday for his failure to comply with discovery obligations, but said he would impose sanctions at a later date. The rulings were a significant legal blow to Giuliani, even as he has juggled numerous civil and criminal cases in recent years. Nevertheless, he has continued to receive the support of his most famous client, President-elect Donald Trump, who last weekend described Giuliani as the greatest mayor. But what theyve done to Rudy Trump said, predicting: Rudys going to come out on top. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Friday, Giuliani is scheduled to have a second, separate contempt hearing in Washington in front of U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell, who presided over the defamation trial in December 2023. Freeman and Moss are asking Howell, who is likely to have little patience for Giuliani, to hold Giuliani in contempt for violating an agreement not to make new defamatory claims about them. They argue that Giuliani renewed his false attacks during two recent podcast appearances. Freeman and Moss have already taken possession of much of Giulianis property, including watches, a ring and a vintage Mercedes-Benz convertible. Giuliani is in the process of turning over his Manhattan apartment, too. But Giuliani has resisted those efforts, and he has failed to turn over a number of items ordered by the court, including a Joe DiMaggio jersey and his grandfathers pocket watch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In testimony Friday, Giuliani outright said he had refused to part with the watch because he fears the plaintiffs will lose it and instead has kept it in a safe deposit box. During his Monday testimony, he dangled the watch in front of the camera. He repeatedly claimed during testimony that he cant find the jersey. In a statement following the hearing, a spokesperson for Giuliani said the plaintiffs attorneys might be happy to fight to take away Mayor Giulianis most cherished personal belongings including his signed baseball jersey of his childhood hero and his grandfathers pocket watch, but they can never take away his extraordinary record of public service. His compliance, or lack thereof, in response to the courts orders to turn over his property is the subject of a separate contempt motion by Freeman and Moss. Liman said Monday that he would take that up at a later date. Correction appended Jan. 7 As the oldest daughter of six, Vanessa Tostado always felt pressure from her immigrant parents to succeed in school. She enrolled in Eastside College Preparatory School in East Palo Alto, California, which helps first-generation students enroll and earn a degree. She fostered her passion for STEM by taking science classes and participating in national math competitions. But during her sophomore year, Tostado hit a roadblock. Her computer science class became so difficult that she asked her vice principal if she could withdraw. She was one of the few female students enrolled, and though computers were a field she was interested in pursuing after high school, she struggled with assignments while her classmates thrived. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter Before we could leave class, we would have these sort of exit slips to solve a problem. I just remember this dreadful feeling of, I dont know how to do this. Im stuck. And this is your exit ticket to go to lunch and all my peers are leaving, she said. I was really feeling like this is not for me, like Im just not getting it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tostado credits Technovation, an international tech education nonprofit, for getting her back on track while reinvigorating her passion for STEM. The organization connects girls ages 8 to 18 with mentors who help them learn about coding, artificial intelligence and entrepreneurship in order to create mobile apps that address real-world problems. In high school, I had a very fixed mindset of, I cant do it. Its not for me. Through the mentorship that I had in Technovation, that really sort of shifted, Tostado said. Its not that I cant do it, I just dont know how to do it. And I need to figure out what I dont know how to do, and what questions I need to ask to help me get there. Vanessa Tostado Since 2006, Technovation has served more than 150,000 girls around the world, mostly through a free, annual international competition that challenges participants to find a problem in their community and build a mobile or web app to help solve it. The organization has a network of chapters that work with mentors, volunteers and parents to help individual girls, or teams of up to five, create their projects over a period of several weeks. Last year, Technovation received more than 2,000 competition submissions from 7,500 girls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tara Chklovski founded Technovation, formerly named Iridescent, after witnessing the lack of women in STEM fields while working on a doctorate in aerospace engineering at the University of Southern California. It was a stark difference from her bachelors degree program in India, which had equal representation of men and women. There were two or three women in (my) entire Ph.D. program. So then you begin to notice, and youre like, Why is that? Chklovski said. I think the thing that really surprised me was that women would sort of say with pride, Oh, I dont do math. Im bad at math. And Im like, Why is that something that youre saying so proudly? You dont say, Im bad at reading, I cant read a book. I think that was bothering me. Related New Indiana All-Girls STEM School Offers Robotics, Aviation and Scout Badges A new international study from the American Institutes for Research shows that by age 6, kids already perceive boys to be better than girls at computer science and engineering. Among girls, such beliefs only grow more entrenched over time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chklovski left her doctorate program to create a nonprofit of her own. She eventually founded Technovation, which began as a school-based STEM program but shifted to serving girls internationally in 2010. The nonprofit launched its global competition in 2012 and has since focused on increasing womens representation in technology industries, including artificial intelligence. This year, Technovation formed a collaboration with UNICEF, Google and other companies called the AI Forward Alliance, which provides government agencies and nonprofits around the world with guidance on how to incorporate artificial intelligence education into their own mission and work. Technovation is calling upon the world and other countries governments to help close the gender gap in technology and STEM industries, according to the organization. Chklovski said the alliances goal is to educate 25 million girls in the next 15 years. In Technovations competition, girls identify issues in their communities, build mobile app prototypes to offer solutions and create business plans, complete with a pitch and video, to be judged. The projects go through a round of semi-finals before the finalists are flown to Silicon Valley to pitch their projects in person. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tostado hadnt heard about Technovation until after her struggles began as a sophomore in 2013. When a mentor at her after-school program proposed that Tostado and some of her friends participate in the competition, she was hooked especially after learning that she could help her own community in the process. Related Girls Face Stereotypes about STEM Abilities as Early as 6, Study Finds For three months, working on their own time outside of class, Tostados team focused on creating an app called Tag It, which aims to improve their local neighborhood by notifying residents of graffiti and helping to organize events to clean it up. The idea was, essentially, build an app that lets people say, I am going to create an event to paint over the graffiti at the public library. And then, if someone is feeling like they want to volunteer, they can join that, she said. The idea was getting people to work together to help clean up East Palo Alto. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Technovation also encourages a focus on climate solutions for project submissions. One girl in India built an app that would tell users their risk of getting lung cancer from air pollution in their community. A team from Argentina created an artificial intelligence app that predicted the chance of wildfires in specific areas. These young women are still in school, right? They are creating real solutions to solve real problems, Chklovski said. But then, as they become alumni and they go into the workforce, they continue with that they have that mindset to solve problems. The Tag It app ranked among the top 20 projects judged in the Technovation competition that year. While the app didnt win the entire challenge, Tostado said the education and mentorship she received from the nonprofit which continued throughout her high school career helped her rediscover her passion for STEM. Im coming from a place of like, I cant solve this exit ticket and I have to scarf my lunch down my throat to get to my next class to this confidence of [being] able to create this app, Tostado said. I think that mentorship and experience gave me the confidence to continue with my classes in high school and then continue taking classes in undergrad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related WATCH: California Teens App Is Inspiring Girls & Young Women to Go Into STEM Tostado graduated from Eastside in 2015 and enrolled at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut, where she earned a bachelors in 2019. She then landed a software engineering job at Palo Alto Networks, a multinational cybersecurity firm. Throughout college, Tostado said, she noticed there was still a lack of women in STEM programs. At conferences, she was told she was stepping into something thats not the norm. Tostado is currently the only woman on her team of 10 engineers. I dont feel like my team treats me any less than, and I feel like my opinions are heard, but I can definitely understand that might not be the norm everywhere, she said. But its also one of those things, like, you dont know what you dont have until you have it, right? Maybe in the future, I join a team and theres a woman manager, or there are more women on the team, and Im like, Whoa. This is what Ive been missing. Correction: The Eastside College Preparatory School graduates last name is Tostado. TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas (KXAN) A herd of goats is working its way through the Steiner Ranch area to reduce wildfire risks. Lake Travis Fire Rescue is using goats to eat overgrown vegetation in the Steiner Ranch area. In turn, the grazing will reduce the plants that can fuel wildfires. KXAN First Warning Weather forecast The herd started their work Saturday and will continue through Friday in the green belt along the Chaparral Hiking Trail. The goats are trained and handled by Rent-A-Ruminant Texas. Goats clearing land in Steiner Ranch (Courtesy Lake Travis Fire Rescue) Goats clearing land in Steiner Ranch (Courtesy Lake Travis Fire Rescue) Goats clearing land in Steiner Ranch (Courtesy Lake Travis Fire Rescue) Goats clearing land in Steiner Ranch (Courtesy Lake Travis Fire Rescue) Goats clearing land in Steiner Ranch (Courtesy Lake Travis Fire Rescue) Goats clearing land in Steiner Ranch (Courtesy Lake Travis Fire Rescue) Goats clearing land in Steiner Ranch (Courtesy Lake Travis Fire Rescue) Goats clearing land in Steiner Ranch (Courtesy Lake Travis Fire Rescue) Goats clearing land in Steiner Ranch (Courtesy Lake Travis Fire Rescue) Goats clearing land in Steiner Ranch (Courtesy Lake Travis Fire Rescue) Goats clearing land in Steiner Ranch (Courtesy Lake Travis Fire Rescue) Goats clearing land in Steiner Ranch (Courtesy Lake Travis Fire Rescue) The pilot program is in partnership with the Steiner Ranch Residential Owners Association. Goats will work 24 hours a day within temporary electrified fencing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The department said goats help manage vegetation in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way. What do the goats on Austins Hike-and-Bike Trail do? The Trail Conservancy started using goats in 2023 around Lady Bird Lake to eat harmful plants along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Sir Nick Clegg is leaving Meta, the owner of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. With him goes the idea that the great and the good of the liberal policy elites should decide how we all behave on the internet. And good riddance to both. The former Liberal Democrat leader and deputy prime minister was brought in as Metas president of global affairs six years ago to solve a problem. The Clegg solution always looked like a cynical swizz but with the re-election of Donald Trump, the model looks as dead as a dial-up modem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To explain how he got there, we have to understand what a pickle Mark Zuckerberg was in eight years ago. Up until then, Facebooks rise had been meteoric, with the eccentricities of the young founder either ignored or indulged. All that changed after the election of Donald Trump for the first time as president. The liberal intelligentsia, unable to look into the mirror to account for populism, blamed Facebook for everything that had gone wrong. The Facebook founder needed a PR heat shield. Zuckerberg looked at the world and saw that it was run by committees. Globalisation had robbed national politics of its purpose important matters were decided by technocratic international bodies, leaving nation-states with a much-diminished role. National regulators struggled to grapple fast-moving, global, digital platforms such as Facebook and Google. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While NGOs didnt exactly run the world, they had developed an anointed role as the keeper of conscience for the business and political elites. Chief executives would come to Davos to be berated about not doing the right thing, and then return to the boardrooms and order, for example, diversity and sustainability policies. Zuckerberg then had a brilliant idea: why not create an NGO of his own to oversee Facebook? It would act as a heat shield. This led to the creation of the Oversight Board, to which Zuckerberg gave a quasi-constitutional role: he called it Facebooks Supreme Court. He promised that Meta would abide by the decisions it took. Dont shout at me, when things go wrong, the chief executive was saying. A look at the composition of the first Oversight Board confirms the approach. There was a post for a European human rights judge, for Alan Rusbridger, the former editor of The Guardian, and Helle Thorning-Schmidt, the former Danish prime minister and wife of Labour MP Stephen Kinnock. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How very cosy. Surely the liberal critics of Facebook moderation could no longer complain, now it was stuffed with its own people? It also took decisions they liked. Donald Trump was thrown off Facebook in 2021 and restored two years later when it was clear he was going to be a major figure in the 2024 election. But the Oversight Board ran into two stubborn problems. One of them is trust. NGOs are very different to what they were 30 years ago. My first big feature assignment as a novice in 1994 described how what were then grassroots environmental and conservation groups were pitted against the global power brokers of the United Nations. The latter wanted a big conference but the former thought it was an ego trip and a gigantic waste of money. At an NGO back then, a scrappy, threadbare graduate would answer the phone and be openly scathing about the ambitions of the United Nations and its international power brokers such as Maurice Strong. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats all changed now that many NGOs have become as large as corporations themselves. They are all parts of the same well-funded blob. No one thinks of NGOs in the way they were once respected in Victorian civil society, as a neutral and independent third sector. Today, they are a powerful political force in their own right. Half the country was never going to accept what the Oversight Board decreed. Sir Nicks successor, Joel Kaplan, comes with experience that puts him more in tune with the mood in Washington today - Kevin Lamarque/REUTERS The second problem is that social networks are not easy to moderate or regulate. Whoever is making the decisions cannot win. And how should a nation state treat it as a publisher or as a communications network, when really it is a bit of both? At least Sir Nicks successor, Joel Kaplan, a former senior staffer for George W Bush, will be better tuned to the mood music in DC today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The problem for Meta remains its founder. Zuckerberg owns 13pc of the companys shares but more than 50pc of the voting power, meaning he can do whatever he wants. Which wouldnt matter so much if his judgement was good but he gets big things wrong. Zuckerberg ordered tens of billions of research and development dollars to be wasted on the Metaverse and nobody is interested. A week after a Meta executive boasted how it would drive engagement by creating fake, AI-generated accounts that we could chat to on Facebook, it began deleting them by the thousand. The problem, as CNN reported, is that they were too honest. One of the fake personas, described as a black grandpa called Brian, admitted to reporters that Meta valued emotional manipulation over the truth, and traded lasting user trust for short-term innovation, prestige and profit potential. Good bot. So Zuckerberg has some big problems to deal with and hell have to solve them without his English heat shield, Sir Nick. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The husband of a Republican senator refused to shake Vice President Kamala Harris hand during his wifes swearing-in ceremony on Friday, as seen in a now-viral video that captured the awkward exchange. Sen. Deb Fischer (R.-Neb.) appeared to be all smiles while being sworn in by Harris for her third term in the U.S. Senate while standing alongside her husband, Bruce Fischer. The moment appeared to turn frosty, however, as the senator repeatedly nudged her husband to stand closer to the vice president as he held a cane with one hand and a Bible in the other. The husband of a Republican senator just refused to shake hands or make eye contact with Vice President Harris. The level of class you can expect from MAGA. pic.twitter.com/hTarflIqlw No Lie with Brian Tyler Cohen (@NoLieWithBTC) January 6, 2025 Its OK, I wont bite. Im not going to bite. Dont worry, a smiling Harris is heard telling him as he appears to avert his gaze and keep his eyes on the Bible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deb Fischer shook Harris hand after completing her oath and thanked the vice president. When Harris expressed congratulations to the senators husband, he offered a short thank you and then dropped his newly freed left hand and put it in his pants pocket, prompting a raised-eyebrows reaction from Harris. The senator shared photos of the event on her social media account along with a pledge about continuing to stand together. Sen. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) shakes hands with Vice President Kamala Harris during a swearing-in ceremony at the Capitol on Friday. Bruce Fischer, the senator's husband, refused to shake Harris' hand during the ceremony. via Associated Press Together we will continue to stand tall for our shared values and take care of our people. We will protect this nation. We will build a stronger Nebraska. And we will secure that brighter future for our children and grandchildren, her post read. Representatives for her office did not immediately respond to HuffPosts request for comment Monday on the handshake (or lack thereof). Related... Aaron Thacker is a veteran of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Hes served as military police, been posted at a detention facility, and witnessed more of the decades-spanning global War on Terror both at home and abroad than most Americans can imagine. Thacker says there are only two dates that filled him with a uniquely heightened sense of fear and horror for his country as he watched them unfold in real time: 9/11 and Jan. 6, 2021. I was at Fort Bliss, Texas, on September 11, 2001, and I had just finished a physical fitness test. I was very low-ranking, it was very early in my career. I jumped in the car, and I had the radio on. You know how these NPR reporters have this way of talking very calmly? In a maybe well go have tea after this sort of way, with this soothing cadence? Thats how it sounded when they were talking about aircraft hanging out of the side of this building, and it wasnt computing right in my brain. I got back to my house and turned on the TV and saw the second aircraft hit. When that happened, it was the same feeling of what the fuck is going on right now? that I had when I was watching Jan. 6 unfold. There was an emotional link between how I felt in those two separate moments, Thacker tells Rolling Stone. My entire career was defined by Sept. 11 and I dont think anything has hit that way for me, besides Jan. 6. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Four short years ago to the day, Thacker was sitting in his Virginia apartment in the Crystal City neighborhood just across the water from the nations capital. At the time, he was a senior official in the communications department of the National Guard. It was still the height of the Covid-19 pandemic in a ruptured, devastated country, and he was one of so many Americans working remotely. At his home-office desk, he had two screens set up for his computer, and then another monitor for his TV. He says he had CNN on in the background. I was watching the rally, doing my job, and keeping an eye on things, he says. But after President Donald Trump and other speakers calls to election-stealing action, and after it became clear on live television that the rally had turned into a march that had segued into a swell of violence at the Capitol building, Thacker recalls his snap instinct as a soldier was to grab his gun. I got this sense of hyper-vigilance, he recounts. There was a moment when I made sure to know where my personal weapon was at. It was more of a response out of fear than out of rationale. Its not like I was going to use it and I left it behind when I had to leave my apartment. But I didnt want it boxed up or locked up somewhere, is what I was thinking at that moment. It was just my instinct to respond that way. Thacker doesnt recall exactly how long he held the firearm in his hand as he watched the Capitol insurrection mount, but for most of the rest of the day, his loaded handgun sat there on his desk next to his computer. The following morning, he reported to the D.C. Armory across the river to laboriously set up the comms side of the Guards mission for what would become the most heavily militarized presidential inauguration in modern American history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To this day, former and now future President Trump likes to say Jan. 6 was a day of love, and that the convicted rioters, whom he sicced on Congress to halt Bidens legitimate assumption of the presidency, should be pardoned, if not lionized. Thacker who is now a senior aide to Arizonas Democratic secretary of state, Adrian Fontes didnt sleep much the night before he deployed to D.C. on Jan. 7. He knew what kind of day Jan. 6 actually was. In war, you expect bad things to happen, he says. But even [those things, in my personal experience] didnt compare to how I felt about what happened on Jan. 6 [because] it was not supposed to happen. Americans are not supposed to do that to each other. The attack on the Capitol was the culmination of a blatantly authoritarian operation by an electorally defeated president to cling to power and shred the nations democratic order. By late January 2021, Trump finally relinquished the office as a wildly unpopular president during a still-raging global pandemic, leaving behind an immeasurably broken country and a historic mess for his Democratic successor to drown in. At the time, there was no shortage of members of the Republican Party elite rushing to denounce the delusional, soon-to-be former president, with senior veterans of his administration unafraid to unload on him on the record with lines like: Yesterday was the worst day for the Republican Party since Lincolns assassination. The attack on the Capitol that Trump instigated led to bloodshed, Americans dying, a second presidential impeachment, a high-profile congressional inquiry, lawsuits, criminal investigations, and the first federal criminal charges of a president in the nations history were soon triggered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then, despite everything, Trump got away with it. It didnt take long for the Republicans who helped him skirt accountability to fall in line. Prominent GOP lawmakers and other conservative leaders to came crawling back to their boss just weeks after the attack. A plurality of the American electorate did the same just under four years later. In two weeks following this years anniversary of the deadly Capitol assault that he instigated, Trump is set to be sworn back into the presidency. He will return to power in an inauguration ceremony held at that very same Capitol a MAGA mob stained with literal blood. And hes going to reenter to the White House after years of campaigning on a platform of punishing those who attempted to hold him accountable for that abomination, and pardoning pro-Trump rioters who bought his lies and conspiracy theories that the 2020 election was stolen from him. The Republican Party, conservative movementarians, and Trumps unusually venal allies in right-wing media have spent years injecting propaganda into the American bloodstream, insisting that one, little riot where a few people passed away was no big deal and only the perennially out-of-touch still care about it. Instead of backing away from the abyss of Trumps brazenly anti-democratic vision of elections, influential conservative figures across the country and throughout the partys top ranks have spent virtually all of his brief post-presidency cementing his heads-I-win-tails-you-lose electoral philosophy into Republican dogma and practice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least in terms of the simple binary of Trump standing trial on those criminal charges versus the president-elect evading that inconvenience by winning the 2024 election, the relentless propaganda, obviously, worked like a charm for him, for Mitch McConnell, and for the rest of them. Its one of the reasons why there has been a top-to-bottom failure to hold Trump accountable for that afternoon of mayhem, election-subverting violence, and fatalities. A bipartisan congressional select committee was formed to investigate the attack, and produced damning revelations of Trumps actions and a series of shocking public testimonies. What I saw was just a war scene, Capitol Police Officer Caroline Edwards testified in June 2022. There were officers on the ground. They were bleeding, they were throwing up. I mean, I saw friends with blood all over their faces. I was slipping in peoples blood. The committee ultimately found that Trump lit that fire and referred him for criminal charges. Criminal investigations into Trump and his election-denying cohorts were also launched, including by Special Counsel Jack Smith for the Biden-era Justice Department, resulting in the now-president-elects indictment on felony charges. But when Trump won in November, all of that came tumbling down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That delayed federal trial isnt happening. Trump was reelected on a vow to do away with Smith and his criminal cases, and following the 2024 election, the Biden DOJ and Smith preemptively did Trumps work for him and shuttered the cases. Last month, the president-elect told NBC News that members of the Jan. 6 House committee should be jailed for what they did. And over the past two years, close Trump allies have been crafting plans for how to potentially retaliate against, or investigate, Smith and his staff. Now they have the chance and the power of the federal government to do it. In the wake of Trumps 2024 victory and these cascading defeats for a shred of accountability, it may feel all too easy for the media, for Democratic politicians, for voters, for everyone, to conclude that going on and on about Jan. 6 didnt work and that maybe, just maybe, normal people dont think it was that historically awful and therefore we all just need to move on. There are some, however, who do not get the luxury of hurling Trumps blood-smeared coup attempt down the nations collective memory hole. The victims are too many to count, and some of them including law enforcement personnel who fought the mob at the Capitol that day have publicly, graphically detailed why this moment in modern American history wasnt just, oh, one of those things. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The idea that we are on the cusp of normalizing political violence in this country is false. We have already normalized it, retired D.C. Metropolitan Police officer Michael Fanone, who was brutally attacked by Trumpist rioters on Jan. 6, told Rolling Stone about a month before Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris. Its been normalized because elected leaders, government officials, and people in positions of authority in this country feel its okay to settle a policy disagreement by using violence and the threat of violence and inspiring their supporters to use violence. So, here we are. Fanone noted that he received threats in the aftermath of his congressional testimony, most of them over the internet and the phone. The threats took a turn down the stretch of the 2024 election, he says. There has been a huge uptick in face-to-face encounters where people have harassed me in public, threatened me, threatened members of my family, spit in my face so much so that its become almost daily interactions. The retired officer further described a moment in the waning months of 2024 when somebody who I see [at the gym] frequently[told me that] when Donald Trump becomes president again, he looks forward to seeing me tried by military tribunal and hung in public. Fanone is far from the only current or former law enforcement member who is disgusted with the normalization of what happened at the Capitol four years ago, and the lack of accountability for those who have played a role in normalizing it. Daniel Hodges, a D.C. police officer who was attacked by rioters at the Capitol, will return to the site on Monday as Trumps win is certified. It will be my honor to make it as uncomfortable as possible for the GOP members who try to whitewash that day and lie about what happened and pretend we didnt save them, he told CBS News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are also the countless men and women like Thacker, servicemembers on the periphery of the attack itself who have dedicated their lives to defending the United States and the democratic order that Trump tried to tear down. Rolling Stone asked Thacker to reflect on how he feels now that the man responsible for the Jan. 6 Capitol assault is returning to the Oval Office. Thacker repeatedly references his soldier mentality and his strict belief in respecting the office of the presidency, no matter which party occupies it. Hes just one man. There are a whole bunch of people who decided to follow him, he says. Theres that old saying about: Fuck around and find out. Well, were done fucking around so were about to find out, Thacker adds. What you need to do is be vigilant. Be prepared. And I guess Im going to be way more vigilant these next four years than I have been in a while. As much as I want to support him, because hes the president, I dont know if I can trust him to do the right thing. Why didnt he do the right thing that day [on Jan. 6]? Thats one thing that makes me nervous about all this. As he reflects on all of this, there is something else that Thacker says he will never be able to forget. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the early morning hours of Jan. 7, 2021, he was back in uniform and driving towards the D.C. Armory where he was deployed. It had been a long night and he needed caffeine first. After pulling into a Dunkin Donuts near the Eastern Market Metro station, he noticed how eerily desolate the neighborhood was because of the pandemic, because of the violence at the nearby Capitol. Inside, he spotted just two people: the man working the counter, and someone else off to the side of Thackers peripheral vision. When the second man walked closer, Thacker immediately realized that the stranger was a uniformed Capitol Police officer. The look on his face, Thacker recalls. There were so many emotions in just one look. I saw fear, exhaustion, sadness and I saw relief. It was this moment that has stuck with me ever since that day. He says the officer walked up to him, shook his hand, and simply said: Hey, Im so, so glad youre here. Thacker told the officer he hoped he was all right. The officer didnt really have much to say after that, but as days went on, other officers who were present on Jan. 6 began filling in the gaps to Thacker. I met people who told me about their firsthand experiences with the mob: the bear spray, the gouging, the knives all the things that make up what I guess a tourist day at the Capitol means to these people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On this anniversary of Trumps so-called day of love, Congress is scheduled to certify his Electoral College win in the same building that was stormed by the violent pro-Trump mob just four years ago to the day. During this transition period, President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have repeatedly committed to the peaceful transfer of power a modern process that until the end of Trumps first administration was taken for granted. This is no longer the case. In so many ways: Trump won. And he got away with it. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) After declaring a state of emergency on Saturday ahead of Winter Storm Blair, Governor Andy Beshear provided an update on the states ongoing emergency response. Gov. Beshear has urged people to stay off roadways especially Monday to give transportation and utility workers the best opportunity to clear roads and restore power before extremely cold temperatures arrive Tuesday. The good news is we are not aware of any major injuries thus far. We also havent had any reports that weve lost anybody right now. And for a state thats been through tornadoes, flooding, polar plunges and so much more, we were ready for this. So, thanks to everyone out there doing their part like our media and meteorologists and a lot of others, Gov. Beshear said. We had a lot of prep time, but there is still a lot of work to do. And the best thing people can do is stay home, stay safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cody Bailey reports on winter weather conditions from Storm Tracker Gov. Beshear thanks all the emergency response, transportation and utility personnel as well as Kentucky National Guard members who left their families to help others during the storm. The Governors office says these are the key weather updates: Still in the midst of a very significant winter weather event. Had 6 to 8 inches of snow followed by at least half an inch of ice across many parts of Kentucky, more than was originally expected. A half-inch of ice can and has brought down tree limbs and power lines. About 93,400 people without power, but the number is constantly fluctuating. Local utility companies are working to restore power as quickly as possible. Expect another one to three inches of snow Monday across much of the state. While about 2,300 Transportation Cabinet staff are working to clear the roadways, the level of ice means almost every single road is icy. Drivers are urged to check traffic conditions before traveling here. Please do not call 911 for road conditions. Those lines need to remain open for emergency calls. Wind gusts up to 30 mph are expected Monday, which makes repairing utility lines dangerous. The bottom line is weve got one day to try to get power back to as many Kentuckians as possible before the wind chill gets down close to zero, said Gov. Beshear. State highway crews continue to clear roads ranging from wet or slushy along Kentuckys southern borders to snow-packed along the I-64 central corridor and northern river counties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While weve made progress, this storms not over, and our hard-working crews remain out in force to keep roads passable for all Kentuckians as we expect more snow today, said Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray. Theyre doing a great job, and you may see bare pavement, but please dont let your guard down its icy and slick, and the best way to stay safe is to stay home. If you must be out, make sure to slow down, buckle up and leave a safe space between other vehicles. This is just the beginning: Gov. Beshear urges Kentuckians to stay home as snow turns to ice Warming Centers Officials say counties with the most power outages have warming centers open. In terms of the Tri-State, those include Henderson and Union counties. This list is subject to change, and Kentuckians in need may contact their local emergency manager for further assistance. Were working with local officials to get the word out to those who have lost power and have medical devices that need to run. We need those folks to be moving toward a warming center, Gov. Beshear said. If you dont have power by midday today you need to be looking at finding a warming center or location that has power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Director of Kentucky Emergency Management Eric Gibson, addressing Kentuckians seeking a warming shelter, said, If you are in need of assistance, know that your first call would be to your local emergency management official. Theyre working very long hours to make sure your community is safe, and they are working hand in hand with your judge executive and your local police and sheriffs departments. If you need additional information, please contact us we will do our very best to provide the information and help you need. Evansville Regional Airport left without power during winter storm Officials say on Saturday, the Governor activated units of the Kentucky National Guard to stand ready to respond. State transportation workers also prepared to act, and local emergency management officials worked to open needed warming centers. The Governor also activated the states emergency operations center and implemented the states price gouging laws to protect Kentuckians from overpriced goods and services as they clean up and recover from the storm. Consumers should report price gouging to the Office of the Attorney General. Officials say if a person, or someone they know, is dealing with the emotional distress of compounding traumatic weather events, please call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 800-985-5990. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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). Utah Gov. Spencer Cox will join other governors for a dinner with President-elect Donald Trump at his Mar-a-Lago home in Palm Beach, Florida, on Thursday, according to Coxs publicly available schedule. Coxs office said they do not know how many, or which other governors are invited. The visit takes place one day after Coxs second inauguration ceremony and comes less than two weeks before Trump retakes the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For nearly a decade, Trumps sprawling resort has been the destination for Republicans seeking to curry favor with the former, and now future, president. Since Trumps election in November, a steady stream of conservative leaders and Cabinet hopefuls have made the pilgrimage to the home of the GOPs standard-bearer. This week, between Jan. 10 and Jan. 12, different groups of House Republicans will meet with Trump at Mar-a-Lago, NBC News reported on Sunday. The groups will include members of the House Freedom Caucus and chairs of key committees. Coxs invitation to Mar-a-Lago represents another step in the Utah governors newfound relationship with Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cox entered office a firm critic of Trump and remained so throughout the majority of his first term, choosing not to vote for him in 2016 and 2020 and calling for Trump to resign following the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. Following the Butler County, Pennsylvania, assassination attempt against Trump in July, Cox reversed his longtime position of distancing himself from the former president and endorsed him. Cox said that his about face on Trump coming after a bruising GOP primary was not based on political calculus, but a sincere desire to practice Disagree Better within the Republican Party and lower the temperature in this country. Just over a month after his endorsement, Cox was invited to an exclusive event with Trump at the Arlington National Cemetery. The visit resulted in a viral TikTok video of Cox speaking with Trump and a controversial photo shoot at the military site. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During an interfaith fireside on Sunday, Cox said his connection with the president-elect extended beyond what has been publicly reported. I have had the opportunity to meet with him, to talk with him on many occasions. Weve had some wonderful discussions, discussions that I think would surprise some people, Cox said. On the eve of his second inauguration, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox stood at a church pulpit to deliver a sermon on the spiritual foundation of good governance. It was a message familiar to both his friends and opponents in the world of Beehive State politics. Ahead of the states 45-day tornado of a legislative session, and after nearly a year of brutal campaigning, Cox announced to the diverse room of believers, and non-believers, that he had put his finger on Utahs competitive advantage. We might be the only state in the nation that can give hope to the rest of the nation and the world, Cox said at the Sunday night interfaith fireside. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state, according to Cox despite being 13th in size, 30th in population and 45th in seniority is second to none in its potential to renew Americans faith in the possibility of disagreeing without contempt, the power of caring for ones neighbors and the persistence of the American Dream. Making this potential a reality is nothing short of an obligation for the people of Utah, for its leaders in politics and religion, and for himself, Cox said. The alternative is a country without the hope of reconciliation and that, said Cox and his fellow panelists at Sundays interfaith fireside, is as far from the founding spirit of America as one can get. Emilie Brown, the wife of Attorney General-elect Derek Brown, sings with her sons Alex and Zachary Brown during a Utah Interfaith Fireside panel discussion at the First Presbyterian Church of Salt Lake City in Salt Lake City on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News Is the Constitution threatened by contemptuousness? To kick off a week of inaugural activities ahead of Mondays official swearing in and Wednesdays ceremonial address, Cox gathered with other recently elected statewide officials, including Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson, Attorney General-elect Derek Brown and State Auditor-elect Tina Cannon, at the First Presbyterian Church in Salt Lake City for a Sunday evening fireside. The night featured remarks from church pastor Jamie White and Henderson, an armchair conversation between Cox and former federal Judge Thomas Griffith, a panel moderated by Cox with representatives from different Utah faith communities and two musical numbers performed by Brown and his family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Utahs governors have a long tradition of participating in pre-inaugural interfaith services, going back at least two decades. Four years ago, the event took place at the historic St. George Tabernacle in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and just days before the violent climax in the dispute over the 2020 presidential election. While disease and division may have ticked downward since then, the stakes surrounding religious communities responsibility to return hope to American political life have remained equally high, Griffith said. This is a time where people with faith are needed, perhaps more than ever, to address this issue, Griffith said. The issue is the same one that Griffith focused his comments on during Coxs first interfaith fireside in 2021. The Constitution of the Unites States is hanging by a thread, Griffith said Sunday, but the culprit isnt a foreign nation or narrowing freedoms, it is the contemptuous way in which politicians speak about others, and how we speak about other people. Gov. Spencer Cox, Rabbi Avremi Zippel, from the Chabad Lubavitch of Utah, Pastor Corey J. Hodges, from The Point Church, and Sheri Dew, executive vice president of Deseret Management Corporation, all discuss with each other during a Utah Interfaith Fireside panel discussion at the First Presbyterian Church of Salt Lake City in Salt Lake City on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News Much of this years fireside was spent in praise and promotion of Coxs Disagree Better initiative as chairman of the National Governors Association from July of 2023 to July of 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The national spotlight afforded Cox the opportunity to mobilize dozens of governors in an effort to model healthy bipartisan dialogue. Coxs initiative included an advertising campaign that was part of a study on partisan animosity, a forum at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., trainings from experts on depolarization and visits from actor Matthew McConaughey and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. But Coxs attempt to champion a different kind of politics also became the central attack for his political opponents, who argued that Coxs initiative was simultaneously an empty talking point for a Republican supermajority and an offensive euphemism for compromising conservative values. Early on in the 2024 election cycle, Coxs primary challenger, state Rep. Phil Lyman, R-Blanding, and Coxs general election rival, state Rep. Brian King, D-Salt Lake City, even decided to set aside their disagreements to film an ad mocking Coxs Disagree Better approach. The hardest commandment Cox joked that he looks back on 2024 with relief that it is over. Having introduced his budget recommendations for the upcoming legislative session, Cox is now preparing for a second term focused on fulfilling big promises on affordable housing and energy production. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Cox acknowledged that the difficult year which included electoral challenges and a surprising change of heart toward President-elect Donald Trump was the perfect opportunity to practice what he preached. If anything, Cox said, the pains he went through to try and find common ground with critics on the left and the right, reaffirmed his belief that the lifeblood of the Constitution is found where many people might not expect: Matthew chapter 5. To me, the hardest commandment, the most challenging, the most important commandment, in all of scripture, that Jesus gave, is this idea of loving your enemies, Cox said. But its not enough just to say that we love them. We actually have to do good to them. To follow this teaching is to do more than make the world a nicer place. It is a prerequisite for the countrys survival, Cox said, because without a critical mass of respectful disagreement, the centrifugal force of tribalism will throw the whole American experiment right out the window. Rabbi Avremi Zippel, from the Chabad Lubavitch of Utah, center left, answers a question asked by Gov. Spencer Cox, left, during a Utah Interfaith Fireside panel discussion that also included evangelical Christian pastor Corey Hodges and Sheri Dew, executive vice president at Deseret Management Corporation, at the First Presbyterian Church of Salt Lake City in Salt Lake City on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News During the final panel discussion moderated by Cox, Jewish rabbi Avremi Zippel and evangelical Christian pastor Corey Hodges both attested to the kind of faith-based pluralism they have discovered while living in Utah. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sheri Dew, the executive vice president and chief content officer of Deseret News parent company, Deseret Management Corporation, said this kind of community is unique to the Beehive State and deserves to be broadcasted to the rest of the country. Dew, like Griffith, made repeated reference to an April 2023 address delivered by President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, entitled, Peacemakers Needed. Dew said she thought it sent a powerful message that just weeks after President Nelson said, Anger never persuades. Hostility builds no one. Contention never leads to inspired solutions, Cox was able to represent Utah on the national stage with Disagree Better. We may not be the biggest state, we may not be the most famous, we may not be the richest, we certainly arent the most populous, but we may be the only state that actually could return civility and decency and love of humankind to the country, Dew said to loud applause. Doug Murdock bows his head in prayer while Very Reverend George Nikas gives the benediction at a Utah Interfaith Fireside panel discussion at the First Presbyterian Church of Salt Lake City in Salt Lake City on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Spencer Cox speaks with Thomas B. Griffith, retired Judge of the Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, during a Utah Interfaith Fireside panel discussion at the First Presbyterian Church of Salt Lake City in Salt Lake City on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson speaks during a Utah Interfaith Fireside panel discussion at the First Presbyterian Church of Salt Lake City in Salt Lake City on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News Gov. Spencer Cox speaks with Thomas B. Griffith, retired Judge of the Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, during a Utah Interfaith Fireside panel discussion at the First Presbyterian Church of Salt Lake City in Salt Lake City on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News Attorney General-elect Derek Brown plays the piano while his wife Emilie Brown sings during a Utah Interfaith Fireside panel discussion at the First Presbyterian Church of Salt Lake City in Salt Lake City on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement First Presbyterian Church Reverend Jamie White delivers welcoming remarks at a Utah Interfaith Fireside panel discussion at the First Presbyterian Church of Salt Lake City in Salt Lake City on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News Gov. Tony Evers announcing his proposal for a statewide citizen initiative process on Friday, Jan 3 in the State Capitol. | Photo by Ruth Conniff/Wisconsin Examiner Ahead of state lawmakers swearing-in on Monday, Gov. Tony Evers is proposing that the Legislature create a way for Wisconsin residents to directly create ballot measures that make statutory and constitutional changes through the referendum process. The proposal comes ahead of a legislative session that will test the prospects for a productive working relationship among a newly slimmed-down Republican legislative majority, Democratic lawmakers, who picked up 14 seats in the recent elections and Evers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Evers proposal for a binding referendum process would allow citizens to put proposed measures before the electorate for ratification. Wisconsin law currently permits the Legislature to place proposed constitutional amendments on the ballot, after they pass two consecutive legislative sessions. But Wisconsin doesnt have a way for voters themselves to introduce initiatives or place a binding referendum on the statewide ballot. Republican lawmakers have turned to constitutional amendments in recent years as a way to bypass the governors veto pen. Evers said that if Republicans are going to continue to utilize that process, Wisconsin citizens should also have the opportunity to place questions on the ballot. Republican legislators have repeatedly ignored the will of the people of Wisconsin, the majority of whom support proposals like restoring Roe and access to safe, legal abortion, legalizing and taxing marijuana like we do alcohol, funding our public schools and implementing common sense gun safety [laws] Instead, Republican lawmakers have repeatedly worked to put constitutional amendments on the ballot that are Republican drafted, Republican passed, all while refusing to give the same power to the people, Evers told reporters during a Capitol press conference Friday. Republican lawmakers shouldnt be able to ignore the will of the people and then prevent the people from having a voice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2024, Wisconsin voters passed constitutional amendments put forward to them by lawmakers to prevent non-citizens from voting, to ban private money from helping to fund the states election process and rejected another that would have curbed the governors power to use federal money. Voters could soon see other proposals on their ballots in 2025, including one to add a requirement in that state constitution that voters show photo identification. Assembly Speaker Robin Vos has said that he hopes this could make it to voters in April on the same ballot as a high profile state Supreme Court race. If Republican lawmakers are going to continue to try to legislate by constitutional amendment, then they should give Wisconsinites the same opportunities that 26 other states have, Evers said. The National Conference of State Legislatures, reports that states that have a citizen initiative process allowing citizens to bypass their state legislature by placing proposed statutes and, in some states, constitutional amendments on the ballot include Wisconsins neighbors Michigan and Illinois. The referendum process in some states has allowed voters to act on an array of issues including codifying abortion rights following the overturning of Roe v. Wade and legalizing marijuana. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Evers proposal would instruct the Legislature to create a binding statewide process through a constitutional amendment that would allow voters to file petitions with the Wisconsin Elections Commission to hold a vote on proposed state laws and constitutional amendments to repeal current state law. If the Elections Commission were able to validate a sufficient number of signatures by qualified voters, then a vote on the referendum would be held at the next general election at least 120 days after the petition is filed. Evers proposal would require a simple majority vote to pass the referendum. According to a memo from the Legislative Reference Bureau, Wisconsinites voted once on a measure to implement a statewide initiative and referendum process for ratification in the state constitution in 1914 with 64% of voters deciding to reject the constitutional amendment proposal. The proposal will be included in Evers 2025-27 state budget, which he will present in full in February. The budget writing process will likely be a major place for work to occur, and Evers said he sees opportunities to work with Republican and Democratic lawmakers in the new session and that he has already seen some of that occurring, as new members confer with their colleagues across the aisle on issues of importance to their constituents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As for his own plans to work with Republican legislative leaders, he said, Well work with them anytime theyre available, you know, we worked a lot on the budget last session when we talked about shared revenue. We hope to be able to do that in the future. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX ALABAMA (WHNT) Governor Kay Ivey announced Monday that Alabama would join Louisiana in its days of mourning for a former Auburn student and current Alabama student killed in the New Orleans New Years Day terrorist attack. Gov. Ivey announced that the state of Alabama would be joining Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry in their states period of mourning for the victims of the January 1 terrorist attack in New Orleans. Miss Alabama crowned Miss America 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Governor Ivey is calling on Alabamians to join the state of Louisiana on Monday, January 6, 2025, in their day of mourning for Badawi and on Wednesday in their day of mourning for Dauphin. The governor has directed flags across the state to remain lowered at half-staff for these days of mourning. Badawi was a freshman at the University of Alabama and was a Baton Rouge native. Dauphin was an auto engineer and a 2023 graduate of Auburn University. In Gov. Iveys proclamation, she wrote: We will always remember Kareem Badawi and Drew Dauphin in the state of Alabama, and I express my sincerest condolences to their families and offer my support and respect for the state of Louisiana. Gov. Kay Ivey Latest Headlines You can read the full proclamation below. Days-of-Mourning-for-Kareem-DrewDownload Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Law enforcement officers from multiple agencies work the scene on Bourbon Street after at least 10 people were killed when a person reportedly drove into the crowd in the early morning hours of New Years Day on Jan. 1, 2025, in New Orleans. Dozens more were injured after a suspect in a rented pickup truck allegedly drove around barricades and through a crowd of New Years revelers on Bourbon Street. The suspect then got out of the car, opened fire on police officers, and was subsequently killed by law enforcement. (Michael DeMocker/Getty Images) Gov. Kay Ivey Monday declared two days of mourning for two Alabamians killed in the New Years Day attack in New Orleans. In a proclation, the governor set Monday as a day of mourning for Kareem Badawi, a University of Alabama student. The governor set Wednesday as a day of mourning for Drew Dauphin, a Honda engineer and 2023 graduate of Auburn University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will remember those lives lost, especially those who called Alabama home, Ivey stated in the proclamation. The move follows a declaration from Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry to observe a day of mourning for each of the 14 victims killed in the attack. Badawi and Dauphin were killed in the early morning attack on New Years Day on Bourbon Street when Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, of Texas, drove a truck through the crowd. He was killed in a shootout with police. Weapons and a suspected explosive device were found in the vehicle, along with an Islamic State flag. Flags across Alabama will remain at half-staff in remembrance of the victims. Flags were already lowered to honor the late President Jimmy Carter, who passed away in December. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FBI now believes Jabbar acted alone in the New Orleans attack. Authorities say he placed two ice chests containing homemade explosives further down Bourbon Street two hours before driving a rented truck into crowds early Wednesday. Bomb-making materials were also found in the truck, which he rented in Houston, and in his Houston residence. Jabbar was also linked to a nearby rental property where more explosive materials and signs of a failed arson attempt were discovered. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Gov. Kevin Stitt's office is pushing back after a quote it says was taken out of context later sparked false claims that Oklahoma students would have to attend college, a trade school or join the military to graduate. Oklahoma has no such law or initiative, but commentary on comments made by the governor led to widespread speculation online. According to StateImpact Oklahoma, Stitt told local news station Fox25 about some of his ideas for improving post-graduation readiness in an interview. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want every kid ready for a career, Stitt said. And so, Im thinking about even making it a requirement to graduate from Oklahoma high schools youve got to either be accepted to college, you have to be accepted into a career tech or you have to be going into the army, you have to have some kind of plan post-graduation to go get a great job. In the story, Fox 25 characterizes Stitts comments as: Stitt announced Friday that he wants to prepare every student for success in the workforce. He has some ideas to make this happen, like requiring students to graduate from Oklahoma high schools. Stitt also wants students to have to be accepted into a college. If not college, he says kids should be accepted into a CareerTech. Otherwise, Stitt says a student would have to be going into the army. The announcement refers to a social media post made by Stitt highlighting education policy changes made in 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stitt's office clarified in a statement to The Oklahoman that there is no plan or legislation for a policy change at this time. "That was a quote taken out of context. There was no suggestion that there should be a requirement for military service. The governor threw out an idea to require kids come up with a plan for what theyre going to do after graduation," said Abegail Cave, director of communications for the governor's office, in an email. Where did the controversy come from? What's 'Classroom to Careers'? On Dec. 27, Stitt shared a post on social media titled "Classroom to Careers" that detailed four elements of education in Oklahoma that were addressed over 2024, including high school graduation requirements and credit for CareerTech programs. In the caption of the post, the governor said Oklahoma is "turning classrooms into career launchpads," and that "we want to prepare every student for success in the workforce." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the weekend, the governor drew backlash as parents and educators read Stitt's comments in a news article as potentially requiring students to be accepted into college, a trade school or join the military in order to graduate. In Oklahoma, were turning classrooms into career launchpads. From expanding apprenticeships to higher education, we want to prepare every student for success in the workforce. pic.twitter.com/tuG7respJn Governor Kevin Stitt (@GovStitt) December 27, 2024 These fears appear to stem from Stitt's subsequent comments about the post to news outlets, where he listed the three pathways as strong options for Oklahoma students post-graduation. Oklahoma does not have a law forcing college, CareerTech or military attendance on high school students to graduate. Later, Stitt's office clarified to Fox25 that the comments made were ideas, not an initiative or plan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: More Oklahoma college students are earning degrees. Here's a look behind the numbers What are parents saying? In response to Stitt's initial post on Friday, Dec. 27, several families took to social media to express the importance of flexibility in their children's futures. Many note that children with learning or intellectual disabilities may not be suited to any of the three choices. Others feared that restricting graduates to college, military or technical programs would hinder artists or musicians seeking to join the workforce in their own way. "How about letting students and their families decide what is best for them," one Facebook commenter said. What are Oklahoma's new high school graduation requirements? Oklahoma legislators passed, and Stitt approved, several graduation requirement bills in 2024. None of them force students to exclusively follow one of three pathways, but many of the measures are aimed at expanding the CareerTech footprint within Oklahoma schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House Bill 3278 requires a school district's board of education to establish pathway units and modify graduation curriculum requirements. This bill ultimately changed the graduation requirements by aligning a student's course with their Individualized Career and Academic Plan, allowing them to take more classes toward a certain career. In addition to graduation requirements, there was a specific focus on preparing students with financial literacy. The Oklahoma Legislature recently passed HB 2158, which supports this portion by adding a list of topics that can be taught in schools' financial literacy classes. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Stitt's office says 'Classroom to Careers' comments out of context Democratic Gov. Tony Evers announced this week he'll try again to bring a citizen-led referendum process to Wisconsin, which would allow voters to enact policies directly without the state Legislature's approval. Evers said he'll include the idea in his upcoming two-year budget proposal, set to be introduced in full in the coming weeks. But Republicans are likely to scrap the idea once they start rewriting the state's spending plan, as they have with hundreds of Evers' policy proposals during past budget cycles. Evers cited Republicans' frequent use of constitutional amendments in 2024, which allowed them to place ideas before voters that Evers has previously rejected. Republicans could put four more of those questions on the ballot in upcoming elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Republican lawmakers have repeatedly worked to put constitutional amendments on the ballot that Republicans drafted, and Republicans passed, all while Republicans refuse to give that same power to the people of Wisconsin. And that's wrong," Evers told reporters Friday. Here's what to know about how citizen-led referendums work in other states, what Republicans think of bringing the idea to Wisconsin, how past efforts have fared and what types of referendums Wisconsin does have: What is a citizen-led referendum, and how does it work in other states? Gov. Tony Evers delivers his 2023-2025 biennial budget message Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023, inside of the Assembly Chamber at the Wisconsin State Capitol. About half of states, including neighboring Michigan and Illinois, give citizens a role in getting a statewide referendum on the ballot. Typically, individuals called "circulators" who are sometimes paid work to gather a certain threshold of voter signatures in support of the proposal, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Signature drives can cost several million dollars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Interestingly, no new states have established a citizen initiative process since 1992, when Mississippi began allowing it. If lawmakers did put Evers' proposal into practice, Wisconsin would be the first state in over three decades to enact the process. Recently, citizens in other states have voted on referendums about marijuana legalization, abortion access and paid sick leave, for example. In his announcement, Evers said the proposal would allow Wisconsinites a chance to weigh in on policies that have wide support in statewide polling. Those include making abortion legal in all or most cases, creating a medical marijuana program, expanding Medicaid, using a nonpartisan commission for redistricting, providing paid family leave and enacting "red flag" laws and universal background checks for firearms. More: What to know about referendums in Wisconsin, and why citizens can't petition for them What do Republicans think about bringing a citizen referendum process to Wisconsin? Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, a Republican from Rochester, told the Journal Sentinel last month he would probably not support allowing citizens to bring forward ballot initiatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The idea like in California, where you have dozens of ballot questions and it's literally paid signature-gatherers and out-of-state interests trying to influence the process, probably not. I think our system works pretty well," Vos said. Vos added he believes in representative democracy. That's opposed to direct democracy, which refers to the concept of citizens making decisions or enacting laws directly, without going through their elected representatives. Republicans who control the Legislature typically strip out any non-fiscal policy ideas in Evers' plan and begin writing their own budget from scratch. Evers' proposal for citizen-led referendums is likely to be on that chopping block. Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu, a Republican from Oostburg, indicated that would be the case in a post on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The budget should be a budget, not a policy document. Instead of proposing a laundry list of policy items, Gov. Evers should be focusing his effort on using the state surplus to address rising costs," LeMahieu said Monday. Have there been attempts to bring citizen-led referendums to Wisconsin before? Over a century ago, voters actually rejected establishing the idea in Wisconsin. In 1914, a referendum question asked whether citizens should be allowed to bring forward petitions for new laws or constitutional changes, and 64% voted against it. Democrats have tried again in recent years. Last session, Democrats introduced a proposal to allow citizens to initiate petitions, but Republicans didn't schedule hearings for it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And in the wake of Roe v. Wade's reversal, Evers asked lawmakers to consider the same thing, allowing voters to "go to referendum on the issues that matter to them." Republicans gaveled in and out of that special session without taking up the issue. What types of referendums does Wisconsin have? The referendum questions Wisconsin voters saw on their ballots in 2024 are called constitutional amendments, because they change the language of the state constitution. These amendments must be passed by state lawmakers two sessions in a row before they can appear before voters. Because Republicans control the Legislature, they have the power to pass and schedule constitutional amendments for certain elections without the governor's approval. There are other types of referendums in Wisconsin, but both can only be initiated by state legislators. Lawmakers can place non-binding, advisory referendums on the ballot to gauge public opinion and inform future policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another type of referendum allows voters to approve or reject a law before it goes into effect, even after it's passed by lawmakers and signed by the governor. What referendums could Wisconsin voters see next? In 2024, Republicans placed five constitutional amendments on ballots across three elections. Voters approved three of them and rejected two of them. Four more constitutional amendments are on the docket to be passed a second time this year the last step before going to voters. Vos told the Journal Sentinel his party plans to pass one of them this month to meet the deadline to appear on the April 1, 2025, ballot. That amendment would cement Wisconsin's voter identification requirement into the state constitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three more could appear before voters in 2025 or 2026. If passed by voters, those would prohibit closing places of worship during a state of emergency, limit the governor's partial veto power and end discrimination or preferential treatment in public entities based on race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. More: Wisconsin voters saw 5 statewide referendums in 2024. They might see 4 more in 2025. Here's what they are. This story was updated to add new information. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Evers wants citizen-led referendums in Wisconsin. What does that mean? SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) Governor Brian Kemp has proclaimed January 26 through February 1, 2025, School Choice Week in Georgia. This year marks the 15th anniversary of School Choice Week, a national celebration shining a positive spotlight on educational opportunity in traditional public schools, public charter schools, public magnet schools, private schools, online learning, homeschooling, and nontraditional and microschools. In 2024, 14 states across the country expanded programs to provide families with greater flexibility and control over their childrens education. In Georgia, the recently passed Georgia Promise Scholarship Act will introduce a $6,500 scholarship for eligible students starting in the 2025-2026 school year. This program is designed to support families in covering educational expenses for private schooling and expanding their access to diverse learning opportunities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The proclamation highlights Georgias leadership in offering families educational opportunities and marks the fourth consecutive year that School Choice Week has been proclaimed in Georgia. Georgia School Choice Week is timed to coincide with National School Choice Week, a weeklong national celebration of K-12 education that takes place during the last week of January. During the week, more than 800 events will take place across Georgia. Nationwide, over 27,000 events will celebrate the diverse range of choices available to families today. This School Choice Week, Georgia families have more opportunities to consider than ever for the upcoming school year, said Shelby Doyle, vice president of public awareness at the National School Choice Awareness Foundation. During Georgia School Choice Week, as officially proclaimed by Gov. Kemp, parents can access the information and make the connections they need to make confident and informed decisions for their childs future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more information on School Choice Week events in Georgia, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. (FOX40.COM) Higgins Fire Station 22 has opened its doors once again after being closed for over a decade. Higgins Fire Station 22 decided to close its doors 10 years ago due to budget cuts. On Sunday morning, firefighters and local residents gathered in Grass Valley to celebrate the official opening of Station 22. Its the closest station to our house. So, were very excited. The response time is literally going to be cut in half compared to what it was. So, thats huge, said local residents John and Linda Chase. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chief of Higgins Fire Protection District Joel Tam told FOX40.com, Im very excited for the people out here, cause roughly 400 residents just in this area that well be able to serve. In July of last year, parcel owners voted to pass what the district called a benefit assessment tax of $178 annually, which would help the station to staff it. Retired Higgins Fire Chief Jerry Good told FOX40.com that a quick response can mean life or death, we dont only respond to fires but also medical calls. Minutes count10 minutes, man, you could die from that, from a heart attack or something more severe. Traffic accidents, stuff like that, Ret. Good said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The District Office Manager Bethany Poppenberg said, You want to be able to provide your customer with the highest level of service. The highest quality product. And with this station reopening, thats what were able to provide the district, that high level, that high quality of service. Station 22 is set to be fully staffed 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40. Just getting the key to a new apartment can cost five figures. Thats considering the costs of the first and last months rent, a security deposit, and potentially a brokers fee. This year a new ordinance goes into effect in New York City which will change how brokers are paid. Now theres a growing push to make the same change in Massachusetts. A locally produced video has gone viral and has been viewed tens of thousands of times. The first line is If youve ever rented in Boston, Somerville, or Cambridge, you probably paid for a broker, even though you didnt hire them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The system of tenants paying for a broker they didnt even hire is frustrating to renters we spoke with in Jamaica Plain. The broker fees are a great joke, said one renter on Centre Street. The producer of the video is Bonnie Jin, a union organizer based in Cambridge. It one clip she says, Forcing the tenants to pay for the brokers fee hired by landlords is not the norm for most of the country. While Boston, Cambridge, and Somerville have changes proposed on the local level, theres a push to reform the broker system statewide. You should have full disclosure at the very outset that the landlord is trying to transfer the broker fee cost to the tenant, said State Representative Tackey Chan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Quincy Democrat has filed a bill in three previous sessions to strengthen consumer protections. He plans to refile it again this coming year. He says the high cost of rentals makes this issue more important than ever. Having a hidden cost or undisclosed costs or an additional months rent that you could not have accounted for in your budget really impacts your life. Doug Quattrochi, executive director of Mass Landlords, said The traditional role of a broker is super important. Its to connect a landlord and a broker. He thinks the New York ordinance is fine if it limits a landlord from hiring a broker and then making a tenant pay for it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im worried in Massachusetts that people are going to go completely to the wrong end of the spectrum and say the landlord has to pay for the renters broker. He believes renters are already protected by an existing state law. General law 186-15B is the law restricting landlords on what we can require a renter to pay. Thats a good law and it says you cant require a renter to pay a brokers fee. You cant require an application fee or a credit check fee. Still, as the cost of renting gets more costly, renters are looking for any relief, and protection, they can get. It would go a long way for some people and just make housing more accessible. I would be in favor of that being introduced in Boston, said a man in Jamaica Plain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another added, It would definitely be a good idea. Any small amount is helpful to someone who is looking to rent. Quattrochi also says that brokers play an important role in making sure fair housing laws are followed. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW The active-duty Green Beret behind the suicide bombing in a Tesla Cybertruck in Las Vegas and the Army veteran who plowed a truck through a crowd in New Orleans on New Year's Day had a brief overlap in their service at Fort Liberty, North Carolina. However, despite their shared history at the base, formerly Fort Bragg, law enforcement officials have said there's no evidence the two events were linked. The men, Master Sgt. Matthew Livelsberger and Shamsud-Din Jabbar, who were both killed in the incidents, never served in the same unit, according to unit histories provided by the Army. Livelsberger was a Special Forces operator, serving most of his time in 10th Special Forces Group in Germany and Fort Carson, Colorado, with a short stint in the National Guard's 19th Group in Columbus, Ohio. Jabbar, who pledged allegiance to the Islamic State terrorist group, had spent his Army career in support roles, serving as an information technology specialist with the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Liberty and what is now the 11th Airborne Division in Fort Richardson, Alaska. He left the service as a staff sergeant in 2020 after 12 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read Next: Remains of World War II Marine Recovered and Will Be Buried Stateside After 80 Years Livelsberger served at Fort Liberty from December 2012 to October 2013, supporting the school that trains upcoming Green Berets, according to service records. Jabbar served at the base from June 2012 to January 2015 with the 82nd Airborne Division's Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Brigade Combat Team. Fort Liberty is a big base and one of the Army's most high-profile installations, serving as the headquarters for its special operations forces and the 82nd Airborne -- both among the most prestigious organizations in the service. More than 50,000 soldiers are assigned there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "At this point, there is no definitive link between the attack here in New Orleans and the one in Las Vegas," FBI Deputy Assistant Director Christopher Raia said Thursday. The two men also deployed to Afghanistan simultaneously in 2009, with Jabbar in the 25th Infantry Division when the division's 4th Brigade Combat Team was operating in the volatile Paktika and Paktia provinces. That element of the 25th Infantry has since been redesignated as the 11th Airborne Division. Livelsberger's military career spanned nearly two decades, including nine deployments to Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Congo, the Republic of Georgia and Ukraine before Russia's invasion. In a series of notes Livelsberger wrote ahead of his death, he outlined political and cultural grievances on a wide range of domestic and international topics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Americans only pay attention to spectacles and violence. What better way to get my point across than a stunt with fireworks and explosives?" Livelsberger, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound before detonating the truck bomb, wrote in a note released by police Friday. "Why did I personally do it now? I need to cleanse my mind of the brothers I've lost and relieve myself of the burden of the lives I took." A former girlfriend told multiple news outlets that Livelsberger's behavior shifted in 2019 after a deployment abroad, during which she says he suffered traumatic brain injuries. Those injuries can have devastating symptoms and are linked to increased risk of suicide. Livelsberger received mental health treatment through the Army, according to Brig. Gen. Amanda Azubuike, a spokesperson for the service. "We encourage our soldiers, if they need help, mental health treatment or need to speak with someone, to seek proactive behavioral health treatment," Azubuike said in a statement. Related: Green Beret Who Detonated Cybertruck Left Note Calling Attack a 'Wake-Up Call' OAK PARK, Ill. Whether its miscommunication or an insistence on keeping the status quo, a dispute over births West Suburban Medical Center is causing concerns for care of hundreds of expectant mothers and their babies. For 30 years, the hospital has partnered with PCC Community Wellness Center, which serves predominately low income patients, for labor and delivery of babies. But Resilience Healthcare, which owns the hospital, was recently informed that in order to maintain its liability insurance, births must be supervised by a residency-trained OB/GYN. The PCC said it was informed in November of the change that would take effect Dec. 6. The policy change meant PCCs midwives, under the supervision of its family doctors, would no longer be able to provide care at the hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PCC advocates at a small demonstration outside the hospital on Monday called the change a betrayal of this community. This hospital once stood as a beacon of hope and equity for all, regardless of insurance or income, said Oak Park Village Clerk and PCC patient Christina Waters. Under the current leadership, it has lost its way. Healthcare is not a privilege. It is a right. This community deserves better than disinvestment, neglect and silence. Cook County Commissioner Tara Stamps and Oak Park Village Clerk Christina Waters joined doctors and former patients at a protest outside the hospital, at 1 Erie Court in Oak Park, on Monday, January 6, 2025. Cook County Commissioner Tara Stamps said the hospital has not been responsive or responsible to this community. Dr. Paul Luning, the chief medical officer for the PCC said in a late afternoon statement that his organization did not get a written offer from West Suburban to have Midwife privileges reinstated until after December 6 and that there never was a suggestion that West Suburban changed their mind about revoking midwife privileges until a meeting with elected officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition, Luning said the offer from Resilience Healthcare was to have midwives work under the supervision of obstetricians, rather than in partnership with physicians. We find this offensive to midwives, whose entire professional training and career is focused on their expertise in delivering babies. We also object to the idea that they would be supervised by obstetricians from an OB hospitalist group, he said in an email to WGN. We prefer our model of partnership between midwives, family physicians, and obstetricians at PCC, to ensure continuity of care, including prenatal and postpartum care. Resilience Healthcare said it wants to continue having PCC use its facilities and has hired additional OB/GYNs to be the direct supervising physician for PCC midwives their insurance requires. This group of predominantly African American women reflects the population they now serve and will increase department capacity while improving patient outcomes, a statement from Resilience Healthcare said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company said it extended its offer to PCC in November and again a few weeks ago, but PCC has not accepted it. West Suburban Medical Center says it remains open for labor and deliveries and that its offer to PCC stands. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. A new group is launching a $7 million campaign to mobilize Jewish voters for New York Citys municipal elections including the crucial race for mayor, The Post has learned. The Jewish Voters Action Network will target voters in 12 City Council districts with a large concentration of Jewish residents to make sure they get to the polls. Every council seat is up for grabs this year. There also are races for mayor, comptroller and public advocate. The groups multi-pronged effort will focus first on trying to get independent and Republican Jewish voters to officially switch to the Democratic Party so they can participate in the heavily Democratic citys June 24 Dem primary races amid a local rise in antisemitism. Maury Litwack, founder of the Jewish Voters Action Network, was instrumental in galvanizing Jewish voters to help Democrat George Latimer defeat anti-Israel incumbent Rep. Jamaal Bowman. Maury Litwack/LinkedIn Such an effort could make a big difference because overall turnout at the Democratic primaries is usually low and whoever wins the Dem primaries in races such as for City Hall usually score in November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The deadline to re-register in a different party in Feb. 14. The push will include ads on cable, digital and social media, text messaging and direct mail. The second phase of the effort involves partnering with local institutions and volunteer groups to organize and mobilize Jewish voters to get them to go to the polls. Maury Litwack, founder of the Jewish Voters Action Network, was instrumental in galvanizing Jewish voters to help moderate Democrat George Latimer defeat lefty firebrand and anti-Israel incumbent Rep. Jamaal Bowman in last years Democratic primary for the House District 16 encompassing much of Westchester and parts of The Bronx. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The group that Litwack headed at the time, the Teach Coalition affiliated with the Orthodox Jewish Union, also targeted voters in Jewish enclaves in the battleground states of Pennsylvania and Nevada, where President-elect Donald Trump picked up a larger share of votes than previous Republican presidential candidates. The Jewish Voters Action Network will target voters in 12 City Council districts with a large concentration of Jewish residents to make sure they get to the polls. @mlitwack/X The winner of the Democratic mayoral primary in New York City will likely determine who is the next mayor, and thats why the Jewish Voters Action Network is focusing its efforts there, too, Litwack said. Jewish voters are waking up to the realization that Democratic primaries are determined by low turnout, Litwack told The Post on Sunday. New York Citys 1 million Jews represent the largest number of the faith of any municipality in the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the group is non-partisan, Litwack was blunt in countering politicians who dont take antisemitism seriously or who toe the line of the lefty anti-Israel Democratic Socialists of America. The DSA sponsored an anti-Israel rally in Times Square a day after Hamas attacked Israel and slaughtered 1,200 people on Oct. 7, 2023. A majority of Jewish people dont agree with the DSAs positions and platforms and find many of their positions to be deeply troubling, Litwack said. Jewish voters are waking up to the realization that Democratic primaries are determined by low turnout, Litwack told The Post on Sunday. @mlitwack/X He intends to have thousands of volunteers to knock on doors to persuade Jews to vote, just as the DSA boasts of its grassroots operation. Jewish voters are largely common-sense voters, according to Litwack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Jewish community is able to make positive change when they come out and vote, he said. The Jewish Voters Action Network plans to open its first voter center on Tuesday, 9 a.m. at 1240 Lexington on the Upper East Side. Curtis Sliwa and his Guardian Angels patrol the citys subway lines helping the homeless and keeping New Yorkers safe while they travel. Matthew McDermott Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Declared Democratic candidates for mayor include incumbent Eric Adams, who is fighting federal corruption charges, city Comptroller Brad Lander, former Comptroller Scott Stringer, Brooklyn state Sen. Zellnor Myrie, Queens state Sen. Jessica Ramos, DSA-backed Queens Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani and lawyer Jim Walden. Ex-Gov. Andrew Cuomo is mulling a run for mayor, too. Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa is all but certain to seek the Republican nomination again for mayor. He lost to Adams in the general election in 2021 but has raised his profile as the Guardian Angels return to monitoring the violence-ridden subway system. BOSTON (SHNS) A progressive group is pushing the Mass. Democratic Party to redefine what being a Blue State means by embracing a higher minimum wage, Medicare for All, free education for all from pre-K through college and more as Democrats begin this week to chart their path forward. Our Revolution Massachusetts, which grew out of the 2016 Bernie Sanders presidential campaign and works inside and outside the party to promote grassroots political power, is urging its members to sign up for the Democratic Party listening sessions that start Tuesday. The party said the sessions are meant as a time to review the outcomes of the recent elections, celebrate successes, and identify areas for growth. We cannot rest on our laurels as a Deep Blue State,' the organization wrote to supporters. Even in Massachusetts, we continue to experience a multi-year decline in Democratic voter registration. And like the rest of the country, Democratic vote totals declined in Massachusetts as many working-class voters stayed home and some voted for Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our Revolution said the party needs to show how state and national government can and will work to improve their everyday lives if it is to win back voters and strengthen its base. The group said the party could show that by [r]aising the minimum wage to a living wage so that no one has to work two or more jobs to make ends meet; Ensuring that everyone has access to high-quality, free public education from pre-K to college Investing in innovative approaches to our housing crisis like social housing and allowing communities to stabilize rents; [and] passing Medicare for All (which has been languishing in the Legislature for decades despite repeated majority support within the Democratic Party and in dozens of local non-binding ballots. Today, 60% of the American people are living paycheck to paycheck. Weekly wages are less now than fifty years ago. We can make peoples lives better. Massachusetts is the size of many Western European countries. Like them, we can provide healthcare for everyone, universal childcare, free college education, and many other necessary conditions for security and well-being, the group said. Heading into the fall elections, just over one in every four Massachusetts voters was registered as a Democrat. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. In an unprecedented international hearing on the climate crisis, United States representative Margaret L. Taylor defended the country's efforts to address global heating despite criticism from several island nations calling for more aggressive action. What's happening? The New York Times reported that at a climate hearing at the International Court of Justice in the Netherlands, Taylor acknowledged the severity of the climate emergency but argued that the Paris Agreement a legally binding international treaty adopted by nearly 200 countries in 2015 is adequate to limit rising global temperatures caused by heat-trapping gases in the atmosphere. However, at several hearings in early December, some environmental advocacy groups and small island nations said that the world's biggest carbon polluters including the U.S., China, and Australia aren't doing nearly enough to make a meaningful dent in pollution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "These nations, some of the world's largest greenhouse gas emitters, have pointed to existing treaties and commitments that have regrettably failed to motivate substantial reductions in emissions," Ralph Regenvanu, special envoy for climate change and environment for Vanuatu, a South Pacific Island nation, told the Times. "Let me be clear: These treaties are essential, but they cannot be a veil for inaction or a substitute for legal accountability." A climate campaign launched by Vanuatuan students prompted the United Nations to request an advisory opinion on the legal obligations of wealthy, heavily polluting countries toward the world's most vulnerable nations. While those on the frontlines of the climate crisis demand accountability from the U.S. and other rich nations, efforts to slow environmental damage may be in jeopardy under a second Donald Trump presidency. As the Times explained, he withdrew from the Paris Agreement during his first term and has vowed to pull out again once he takes office in January, per Politico. Why are the climate hearings important? The landmark hearings are critical because they will provide clarity on the responsibilities wealthy nations such as the U.S. have to protect the most at-risk countries from the impacts of the rising global temperature. According to the nonprofit PassBlue, Vanuatu is already experiencing "existential threats" from increasingly severe climate disasters such as floods, cyclones, and droughts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Times explained that the small island nation has incurred high debts to cover the costs of repairing infrastructure, destroyed crops, and reduced fish stocks. The student-led climate alliance believes that voluntary commitments from major polluters aren't sufficient to address their struggle and that the best course of action is to sue the countries most responsible for our overheating planet. Though the International Court of Justice's opinion on the climate will be nonbinding, it will hold significant weight since it is widely considered the world's top court. Once judges issue their statement, it could drive more climate lawsuits in national and international courts and influence lawmakers to enact stricter environmental policies. Do you think America has a plastic waste problem? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind The Times stated that lawyers managing the case expect the court to issue its opinion in summer. What are other courts doing about climate policy? While the world awaits the results of the international hearing, climate trials in the U.S. have already led to positive change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2023, a group of young activists won a landmark lawsuit in Montana when a judge ruled that it was unconstitutional for the state to approve dirty fuel projects without considering the climate impacts. According to Reuters, a group of young people in Hawai'i also claimed victory after the state agreed to decarbonize its transportation system by 2045. As more people use their voices to push for climate action, we get one step closer to a cleaner, greener future. 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. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) A person believed to be connected to an attempted bank robbery is in police custody after an hourslong standoff in a northeast Grand Rapids neighborhood, according to police. The Grand Rapids Police Department said around 10 a.m., someone tried to rob Bloom Credit Union on Plainfield Avenue NE, north of Leonard Street. According to police, the suspect left without getting any money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Around 11:30 a.m., police responded to Lafayette Avenue near Fairbanks Street for a barricaded subject who they believed to be connected to the attempted bank robbery, GRPD told News 8. Officers surrounded the home. After negotiations, the person came out and was taken into custody. No one was injured during the standoff, GRPD said. GRPD and FBI are investigating. Anyone with information is asked to call GRPD detectives at 616.456.3380 or Silent Observer at 616.774.2345. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) On Sunday night local musician Todd Allen Herendeen and his band sang gospel songs to the church. Officials say the money collected from the series will provide care for many across the Bay County. Since 1991, the Gulf Beach Presbyterian Church has been hosting their church and the arts concert series. Through this series, local and non-local artists perform songs and visual artists paint as a part of the Gulf Coast State College encore program. This year the church is fundraising for beach care services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some kicked off the 2025 New Year with a Dry January reset We chose Beach Care Services this year. We have done different ones in the past. We have done for Hurricane Michael, we have done for our food pantry and the Beach Care Services AIDS, the local community for people who dont have enough to pay their bills, people that need money for stuff, and several things like that. And we just like to donate to a local charity, concert committee Chairman Lenny Zacker said. Beach Care Services is a non-profit organization that provides emergency assistance with rent payments, utilities, transportation, prescriptions, food, clothing, and more. Its pretty amazing, especially for the fact that probably over 50% of the people that are in this building arent from Panama City Beach. So for them to come and whether they knew it or not, to be benefiting the people that live here and work here, its truly is an amazing thing, Beach Care Services Board President Derrick Malnar said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sunday night Todd Herendeen started the series by performing many well-known gospel songs. Hes a great artist. He does a great gospel. He does lots of different impersonations. Hes just wonderful. And hes been kind enough to start off our concert series, which we really appreciate, and makes a lot of money for our beach care services, Herendeen said. Church officials say their mission is to give back to the community and this concert series is the beginning of many more fundraisers. Fire crews responded to a commercial structure fire in Panama City So its just its a real pleasure. We are right in the heart of the lovely area where we can serve the community thats made up of tourists, thats made up of snowbirds, and locals, Sunday School teacher Molly Allen said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This year is also the churchs 75th anniversary, so people have much to celebrate. The last concert will be on February 23rd and Possum Blonde will be playing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 shooting at a bar in southeastern Mexico left seven people dead and five wounded, authorities said Sunday, the latest in a series of similar attacks in the violence-plagued country. A manhunt was launched for the perpetrators of the shooting on Saturday night in the city of Villahermosa, in Tabasco state, the secretariat of security and civilian protection said in a statement. "Five people lost their lives and seven were injured," it said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Analysis of video surveillance cameras is being carried out and elements of the state and federal authorities have deployed coordinated patrols to locate and arrest those responsible," it added. The death toll initially stood at five, but the Tabasco public prosecutor's office later said two more people had died in the attack on what it described as "a clandestine bar that operated irregularly." According to local media, unidentified gunmen burst into the bar La Casita Azul and opened fire at customers, leaving bloodied bodies strewn on the floor. Tabasco, home to oil production facilities, has seen an increase in violent crime in recent months. Just last month, seven inmates were killed in a prison riot in Tabasco. Police stand guard outside the DBar after an armed attack in Villahermosa, Tabasco State, Mexico, on November 24, 2024. / Credit: MARIA CRUZ/AFP via Getty Images In November, six people were killed and 10 wounded in another armed attack on a bar in Villahermosa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That incident came two weeks after an attack on a bar left 10 dead in the city of Queretaro, in a central region that until now had been spared from violence linked to organized crime. The same weekend, six people were killed in a shooting in a bar in a suburb of Mexico City. In December, eight people were killed after gunmen pulled up to a roadside stand in north-central Mexico and opened fire on customers and bystanders. Drug-related violence has seen more than 450,000 people killed in Mexico since the government deployed the army to combat trafficking in 2006, according to official figures. Gang-related violence has continued unabated after Mexico's new president Claudia Sheinbaum took office on October 1. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She has ruled out declaring war on the cartels and instead proposed a strategy she described as being based on gathering intelligence to sap their operational capacity. Sheinbaum also wants to carry on with her predecessor Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador's policy of attacking crime at its roots, with investment in social spending and crime prevention. Massive winter storm expected to bring heavy snow, ice, cold to 25 states How Oakland's Creative Growth enabled generations of artists Rise and shine with sunrise photographer Bugsy Sailor MEMPHIS, Tenn. A 16-year-old boy is now recovering after being shot Sunday evening at a South Memphis gas station, police say. Officers say they were called to the Marathon gas station on 2306 Lamar Avenue regarding an aggravated assault around 4:50 p.m. Video footage from the scene showed a sliver Mazda backed into a parking spot at the gas station and a black Nissan sedan parked at a gas pump. Victim shot after attempting to chase down carjackers Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The driver of the Nissan is seen on video getting out and walking to the drivers side window of the Mazda and they begin talking. That is when police say the passenger sitting in the Nissan got out of the car with an AR pistol. As the victims in the Mazda began to drive away, officers say the suspect with the AR pistol started firing several shots at the Mazda. Police say the victims got away driving west on Lamar Avenue and Airways Boulevard. The abandoned Maza was left on the east side of the median at the intersection of Lamar Avenue and South Parkway facing north, according to police. Video footage from a traffic camera showed the males in the Mazda getting out and running west toward Lamar Avenue behind the businesses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement See more breaking news, local news and weather from WREG.com for Memphis and the Mid-South. Sign up for WREG newsletters and have the latest top stories sent right to your inbox. MPD says the victim, identified as a 16-year-old, was then picked up by his mother at the intersection of Bellevue and Lamar before being taken to Le Bonheurs Childrens Hospital in non-critical condition. This is still an ongoing investigation. If you have any information that could help police, call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. GUNTERSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) Sunday was a special day for the Guntersville community. School and state officials hosted an opening ceremony and ribbon cutting for the 140,000-square-foot building that took just over two years to complete. Miss Alabama wins Miss America 2025 Guntersville City Schools Superintendent Jason Barnett said that while the quick completion might make it seem like the project was easy, it was actually a unique experience. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new school was built on the same property as the old school and in some places, construction was happening just 15 feet from the current high school. When you take a facility that you are building, a 140,000 square feet, 15 feet from an existing campus where learning is still taking place and has students and is an active campus, that is no small feat that is quite substantial, said Barnett. Credit to our architect, our contractor, project manager that did a phenomenal job making this a reality. The new school will feature state-of-the-art classrooms, more natural light, labs and the latest security measures. Download the WHNT News 19 App to stay updated on the go. Sign up for WHNT News 19 newsletters to have news sent to your inbox. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vohn Enloe is the schools principal. He said the schools safety measures should make it easier for everyone to focus on education. We are blessed with some amazing features here, weve got a double airlock, all the doors lock to the classrooms, they dont just remain unlocked they stay locked and you have to have a key to get in, teachers can also lock them again from the inside if they need to, said Enloe. Enloe added that the school will have over 140 cameras that can be monitored at all times. We were blessed with, I think, there is a 147 and some odd cameras throughout the facility so everything is monitored at all times. We have a school resource officer that patrols the facility, he has an officer right there in the front, said Enloe. We are ready and our kids are safe and secure and when you have a safe and secure environment you can educate them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barnett said on Jan. 20 demolition will begin on the old high school building. A new completion arena and auxiliary gym will be built in its place. Following that demolition, the current gym will be demolished and a courtyard will fill its place. The entire project which is expected to bring the schools square footage to 180,000 is expected to be completed in the summer of 2026. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) There has been back-and-forth on a visa program used by some American companies to hire highly skilled foreign workers. Its a program supported by President-elect Donald Trump and some of his closest tech allies. However, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has expressed his concern about the program, worrying that it could be sued to hire cheaper labor instead of paying a citizen a higher wage. The Hills Rafael Bernal covers the Latino political world and has been reporting on this visa program and why some in the MAGA sphere are shocked about Trumps support. He also goes into the overall discussion about Trumps plan for immigration reform. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another big story in Florida involves condo safety. A new law was passed following the tragedy in Surfside, Florida. In that law, there was a key December 31st deadline for associations to complete safety inspections. Attorney Eric Glazer, who worked with lawmakers on the new condo safety law, explains what the penalties will be if the state enforces the law. He also takes a deeper dive into the law and gives his take on what he suspects may happen during this upcoming legislative session. Battleground Florida airs Sunday mornings at 9:30 on News Channel 8. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (Bloomberg) -- Hamas disclosed a list of 34 hostages its willing to return to Israel in the first phase of a potential ceasefire in Gaza, which the US wants to achieve before President Joe Biden leaves office in two weeks. Most Read from Bloomberg The Palestinian militant group circulated the list to Bloomberg and other media outlets, but didnt clarify whether each person is alive or dead. The return of only living hostages in the first phase of a deal is one of Israels demands in fresh negotiations aimed at pausing the devastating war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US says its working intensely to achieve a deal before Biden hands over to Donald Trump on Jan. 20. There are still plenty of obstacles for the warring sides to overcome. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement Monday saying the list originated with Israel, not Hamas. Israel gave it to mediators in July, he said. As yet, Israel has not received any confirmation or comment by Hamas regarding the status of the hostages appearing on the list, he said. Israel will continue to act relentlessly for the return of all of our hostages. At least two of the 34 people are dead, a Hamas official said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As well as killing 1,200 people, Hamas took about 250 hostage when it raided southern Israel in October 2023, triggering the war. Israels air and ground assault on the Palestinian territory has killed more than 45,000 people, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Roughly 100 hostages are still in Gaza, though that figure includes both the living and the dead. Hamas said it would need a week of ceasefire to reach out to operatives holding the hostages and learn about their condition, a request Israel has rejected. Its also possible that some of them are held captive by militant groups other than Hamas, designated a terrorist group by the US and many other countries. Other areas of contention include which Palestinian prisoners will be released from Israeli jails. The negotiations have sputtered along since Biden unveiled a three-phase plan in May to end a conflict that ignited other fronts and put Israel and Iran sponsor of regional proxy groups such as Hamas on a collision course. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were working very hard to bring that over the finish line, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said from the South Korean capital Seoul on Monday. And what weve seen in the last couple of weeks is a re-intensified engagement, including by Hamas, but we have yet to see agreement on the final points. Blinken said if the negotiations arent successful in the next fortnight, he hopes Trump will manage to get a ceasefire done soon after. Hamas and Israel also disagree on what comes after the first part of a pause. Hamas wants Israeli forces to withdraw from Gaza, while Israel says it wants to resume fighting to ensure the group is destroyed and unable to hold power in any part of the territory. Both sides are mindful of the inauguration of Trump, who has warned there will be all hell to pay if hostages arent freed by the time he returns to the Oval Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are a number of issues on which there has been progress, Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen, a member of the countrys decision-making security cabinet, told Army Radio on Sunday. With that, there are significant gaps on some of the issues. We hope that the gaps will be reduced in the discussions now being held in Qatar. The director of Israels spy agency Mossad, David Barnea, is preparing to go to the Qatari capital Doha on Monday or Tuesday, depending on developments, according to officials, another sign of possible progress. Hamas has suffered huge losses in the past 15 months, but its still able to launch rockets at Israel, including six times in the past week. Those salvos were mostly shot down or fell into empty space, though raised alarm among Israelis who had assumed such attacks were no longer possible. On Monday, three rockets were fired with one hitting a home in the town of Sderot. Israel, meanwhile, said three people were killed in a shooting attack in the West Bank. Terrorists opened fire toward a civilian bus and vehicles, the Israeli military said on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement --With assistance from Dan Williams and Courtney McBride. (Updates with comment from Netanyahu, additional context.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. MULBERRY, Fla. (WFLA) A Hardee County corrections officer was arrested in Mulberry on Saturday after he was accused of driving drunk and causing property damage. The Polk County Sheriffs Office said Dylan Kennedy, 28, crashed into a sign at the exit of a subdivision. Rays expect city to repair Tropicana Field by Opening Day 2026 Kennedy showed maximum signs of impairment at the site of the crash and breathalyzer tests revealed readings of 0.137 and 0.139, according to PCSO. He told deputies he visited the subdivision for a party and he consumed five shots of alcohol. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also repeatedly told deputies that he was a Florida Department of Corrections Officer at the Hardee Correctional Institution, and that this arrest was going to cost him his job, the sheriffs office wrote in a news release. Kennedy was charged with DUI and DUI with property damage. Dylan Kennedy was arrested for driving under the influence with a significantly high blood alcohol level, Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said in a statement. This reckless behavior is unacceptable and puts our community at risk. Not only did he choose to drive intoxicated, but he hit a sign, which could just as easily have been a person. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Kamala Harris is set Monday to do what nearly every vice president before her has done certify the incoming presidents election. But with this traditionally uneventful process comes a fraught moment in American history: Monday is the fourth anniversary of January 6, 2021, when then-President Donald Trump incited his supporters to storm the US Capitol. Some of those rioters called for then-Vice President Mike Pence to be hanged as he declined to contest the results of the 2020 election. Four years later, Harris, who was dramatically and unprecedentedly thrust to the top of the Democratic ticket in July and whose 100-day sprint to the November election ended in defeat, will have to formally certify her own loss and Trumps victory. While it may be awkward, Harris is doing what she knows she must, as Pence did before her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harris role on Monday, a White House official told CNN, will be solely ministerial. The vice president understands that our democracy requires elected leaders who have taken the sacred oath of office and everyday citizens alike to actively preserve it, a senior Harris aide said. It is with this deep sense of responsibility and duty in mind that the vice president will certify the presidential election on January 6 and reaffirm the will of the American people, the aide added. With her political future uncertain, Harris is focused for now on the duties at hand in the waning days of her one-term vice presidency a job that has just two constitutionally mandated duties: be the first in the line of presidential succession and serve as president of the Senate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even as Harris will certify Trumps victory in the 2024 election, the president-elect has telegraphed plans to grant pardons to those convicted for their roles in the Capitol riot. Four years ago, Harris, then vice president-elect, drove within several yards of a pipe bomb lying next to a bench outside the Democratic National Committee headquarters. She remained inside the DNC for nearly two hours before the bomb was discovered, according to multiple law enforcement officials familiar with the situation. Harris will mark the anniversary and her Monday task with a video message. The peaceful transfer of power is one of the most fundamental principles of American democracy. As much as any other principle, it is what distinguishes our system of government from monarchy or tyranny, she will say in the video, according to a transcript shared with CNN. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harris will continue, As we have seen, our democracy can be fragile. And it is up to each of us to stand up for our most cherished principles. Mondays certification may be a delicate moment for Harris, but it has plenty of historical precedent. Nineteen of 49 US vice presidents have run for president, but only six have won. Most recently, Vice President Al Gore certified his own razor-thin loss to President George W. Bush in 2001, rejecting multiple objections by lawmakers on behalf of his own candidacy. George H.W. Bush certified his own win in 1989. Before that, then-Vice President Richard Nixon announced John F. Kennedys victory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nixon took a moment during the 1961 certification to mark a moment he described as unprecedented. This is the first time in 100 years that a candidate for the presidency announced the result of an election in which he was defeated and announced the victory of his opponent, he said after announcing the count. Nixon continued, I do not think that we could have a more striking and eloquent example of the stability of our constitutional system and of the proud tradition of the American people of developing and respecting and honoring institutions of self-government. Not all election-losing vice presidents have fulfilled the duty. In 1969, then-Vice President Hubert Humphrey skipped the certification of his loss to Nixon, instead attending the funeral of the UN secretary general. CNNs Wes Little contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com WASHINGTON (AP) There was no drama on Monday as Kamala Harris oversaw the ceremonial certification of her defeat to Donald Trump. The vice president kept her remarks perfunctory, and she stood with her hands clasped in front of her while the results from each state were read out loud. After less than a half hour, she formally announced that Trump had won the election. She smiled tightly as Republicans applauded. The chair declares this joint session dissolved, Harris said. Thank you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The process was vastly different than four years ago, when Trump's supporters rioted at the U.S. Capitol as lawmakers were certifying his defeat to Joe Biden. This time, everyone honored the results of the election. Its a peaceful transfer of power, Harris told reporters as she left the building on Monday. Its a good day. But the proceedings were still a bitter task for Harris. Instead of ascending to the White House as the country's first female president, she oversaw the constitutional machinery that will return Trump to power. By doing so, Harris joined a short list of predecessors who played the same role as vice president, who presides over the Senate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Richard Nixon did it after losing to John F. Kennedy in 1960. Al Gore followed suit when the U.S. Supreme Court tipped the 2000 election to George W. Bush. However, no other vice president has been holding the gavel when Congress certified their loss to an incoming president who refused to concede a previous defeat. In addition to spreading lies about voter fraud, Trump directed his supporters to march on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. The rioters attacked police officers, breached the building's security and sent lawmakers running to safety. Harris was at the Democratic National Committee headquarters in Washington that day. A pipe bomb was discovered nearby, and she was evacuated from the building. During the campaign, she frequently invoked the Jan. 6 attack to warn voters of the danger of returning Trump to the White House. She described him as a petty tyrant and wannabe dictator. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Harris lost the election, she promised in her concession speech to honor the will of voters. A fundamental principle of American democracy is that when we lose an election, we accept the results, she said. That principle, as much as any other, distinguishes democracy from monarchy or tyranny. Karoline Leavitt, a spokesperson for Trump's transition team and the incoming White House press secretary, said there will be a smooth transition of power. When Kamala Harris certifies the election results, President Trump will deliver on his promise to serve ALL Americans and will unify the country through success, she said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leavitt did not respond to a question about Trump's attempt to use the certification process to overturn his defeat four years ago. At that time, Trump encouraged his vice president, Mike Pence, to disqualify votes from battleground states based on false allegations of fraud. Pence refused. Trump's supporters burst into the Capitol and halted the proceedings, forcing lawmakers to hide for their safety. Trump posted on social media that Mike Pence didnt have the courage to do what should have been done. Police eventually cleared the rioters from the building, and lawmakers reconvened to finish their certification. Scores of Republicans still voted to support challenges to the election result. I had no right to overturn the election," Pence said two years later. "And his reckless words endangered my family and everyone at the Capitol that day, and I know history will hold Donald Trump accountable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump faced criminal charges for trying to stay in power despite losing. However, special counsel Jack Smith dropped the federal case against him after Trump defeated Harris since long-standing Justice Department policy says sitting presidents cannot face criminal prosecution. A separate case in Georgia over Trump's attempts to subvert the 2020 election is mired in controversy over the Fulton County district attorney's romantic relationship with a prosecutor she hired to lead the case. The most recent example of a vice president certifying their own defeat came after the 2000 election. The battle between Gore and Bush ended up in the courtroom as the campaigns argued over whether Florida should conduct a recount. Bush won at the U.S. Supreme Court, preventing a recount and allowing his narrow victory to stand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congress certified the results on Jan. 6, 2001, over the objections of some Democrats. I rise to object to the fraudulent 25 Florida electoral votes, Rep. Maxine Waters of California said at the time. Gore slammed the gavel and asked whether the objection met the requirements of being in writing and signed by a member of the House and a senator. The objection is in writing, and I don't care that it's not signed by a member of the Senate, Waters responded. The chair will advise that the rules do care, Gore said. After a few rounds of objections, Congress finished the certification. May God bless our new president and new vice president and may God bless the United States of America," Gore said after announcing the results. Lawmakers gave him a standing ovation. ___ Associated Press writers Farnoush Amiri and Matt Brown contributed to this report. Kamala Harris is readying on Monday to certify the 2024 election results, affirming President-elect Trumps victory as well as her decisive defeat to him after a whirlwind run for commander in chief. After spending much of her campaign warning of Trumps threat to democracy, Harris, in her role as vice president, will now lead the final step in the election process that will send Trump back to the White House. She is expected to perform her duty with little fanfare but ultimately, the position puts her in an awkward spot in which her election loss will also be in the spotlight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harris, however, is not alone in history. Two vice presidents in recent decades have faced the same predicament Richard Nixon, who was vice president when he lost to President Kennedy, and Al Gore when he lost to President George W. Bush. Being put in the position of certifying an election that you lost has to be one of the most difficult and humbling experiences that you could have in public life, said David Thomas, a Democratic strategist and former aide to Gore. That said, I would fully expect that Vice President Harris will do her duty and perform it well. Both Nixon and Gore did the same thing here, its one of the last things you have to do as vice president and its an incredibly important function for a peaceful transition of power, he added. Harris recorded a video message Monday ahead of the certification, calling the duty a sacred obligation and one she will uphold guided by love of country, loyalty to our Constitution, and my unwavering faith in the American people. She also said in the message that our democracy can be fragile. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The vice presidents role in officiating the Electoral College count before Congress the final step in the election process before a president takes the White House was known for many cycles as one that was mostly uneventful and largely ceremonious. That all changed on Jan. 6, 2021, when a mob of Trump supporters stormed the Capitol to contest President Bidens 2020 victory. Trumps then-vice president, Mike Pence, cemented his role in history for his actions that day. Pence was under pressure by Trump to overturn Bidens victory and refused. As a result, rioters storming the Capitol chanted hang Mike Pence, turning on Trumps second-in-command. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The relationship between Trump and Pence, who ran for the 2024 GOP nomination, was never to be repaired, despite Pence at times seemingly defensive of his former boss on policy issues. Still, the former vice president condemned Trumps actions and for endangering his family and others in the Capitol that day. That riot became a staple of Bidens reelection run and later Harriss stump speeches. Both continuously argued Trump was a threat to democracy and shouldnt be qualified to return to office. Harris at times agreed Trump was a fascist, and she delivered her closing argument of the campaign from the Ellipse near the White House, the same place where Trump spoke to supporters the morning of Jan. 6, 2021. But that messaging fell short with the American electorate. Trump won Novembers election, decisively beating Harris in both the Electoral College and the popular vote. Harris has hardly been seen in public since her election loss. She has given two major speeches, including her concession speech at Howard University. Shes made a few appearances around Washington but overall has stayed out of the limelight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A former Harris aide said she doesnt see Mondays certification as a pity party. Vice President Harris has made it clear to her team and supporters that its not time for a pity party. As shes said: the fight continues. Certifying the election results is a part of keeping our democracy intact and weve all heard her speak about how important that is, the former aide said. Biden, when he was vice president, certified Trumps 2016 victory in the same ceremonious fashion. A few Democrats attempted to contest that count, but Biden eventually told them there was no point to do so after the resounding defeat of then-Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton. In 2001, as Gore was certifying Bushs win, he had to gavel down a handful of Democrats who voiced their objection after he won the popular vote but lost the election. That race resulted in a historic recount that was eventually decided by the Supreme Court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Paul Thornell, Gores former congressional liaison who was with him the day of the count, told The Hill that one of the profound kind of moments that I came to admire from that day is he had to discourage people from extending the process. He did it with a smile on his face, said Thornell, a partner at Mehlman Consulting. The image I have in my head of him that day was there was some point where he basically had to gavel the person down. And he started to, and they continued speaking, and he stopped, and put his hands to his heart, nodded toward them, as if to say, thank you. Gore never ran for political office again. When Nixon in 1961 announced from the Speaker pro tempe chair that Kennedy had won the previous November, he took the opportunity to make a statement, calling the situation an example of the stability of the Constitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is the first time in 100 years that a candidate for the presidency announced the results of an election in which he was defeated and announced the victory of his opponent, Nixon said. I do not think that we could have a more striking and eloquent example of the stability of our constitutional system and of the proud tradition of the American people of developing and respecting and honoring institutions of self-government, he said. Nixon went on to win the presidency eight years later and later left office in disgrace following the Watergate scandal. For Harris, 60, questions have swirled over what role she could have next in politics. A run for California governor in 2026 has sometimes been floated in political circles and is often mentioned among Democrats as a top option for her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I imagine shed be a very formidable candidate for governor in California, which would be exciting for her. Thats a pretty powerful perch. Its not the presidency, but its the biggest state in the country. And that would be an exciting prize for her to go after, a longtime Democratic donor and bundler said. A Puck News/Echelon Insights poll released after the election found that Harris was Democrats top choice to be their partys 2028 presidential nominee, with 41 percent of likely Democratic voters would vote for her. While Harris has spent considerable time in Los Angeles and some time in Hawaii since Novembers elections, shes also made sporadic appearances around Washington. On Friday, she was at the Capitol to swear in new senators on the first day of the 119th Congress. Meanwhile, Democrats are working to rebuild the party in the wake of not only her loss, but Republicans gaining control of the Senate and maintaining House control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre faced with figuring out not only what went wrong in 2024, but also how to move forward and who the faces of the future party will be. Democrats think Harris should be a part of that rebuilding process. She has every right to participate in any way she wants to try to participate, the Democratic donor and bundler said. Shes clearly a leader in our party. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 shared a message to the nation Monday as she prepared to preside over a joint session of Congress to certify her defeat to Donald Trump in the 2024 election. The peaceful transfer of power is one of the most fundamental principles of American democracy, Harris says in the video address. As much as any other principle, it is what distinguishes our system of government from monarchy or tyranny. Today, I will perform my constitutional duty as Vice President to certify the results of the 2024 election. This duty is a sacred obligation one I will uphold guided by love of country, loyalty to our Constitution, and unwavering faith in the American people. pic.twitter.com/w21HzdNxGs Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) January 6, 2025 Today at the United States Capitol, I will perform my constitutional duty as vice president of the United States to certify the results of the 2024 election, Harris continues. This duty is a sacred obligation, one I will uphold, guided by love of country, loyalty to our Constitution, and my unwavering faith in the American people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harris is not the first vice president to be given the unenviable task of certifying their own defeat. Al Gore did so after his loss to George W. Bush in 2000, as did Richard Nixon when he was narrowly beaten by John F. Kennedy in 1960. Harris will be the first, however, to certify a loss against an opponent who has previously refused to concede defeat in a presidential election. She will stand at the rostrum and count the votes against her exactly four years since the day when a mob of Trumps supporters stormed the Capitol in an attempt to stop Joe Bidens win in the 2020 election from being certified. Trump has said he will likely start granting clemency to rioters early in his new administration. As we have seen, our democracy can be fragile, Harris says in her video message, without naming Trump explicitly. And it is up to, then, each one of us to stand up for our most cherished principles, and to make sure that in America, our government always remains of the people, by the people, and for the people. In an all-caps Truth Social post Monday, Trump remarked on the significance of the day. CONGRESS CERTIFIES OUR GREAT ELECTION VICTORY TODAY A BIG MOMENT IN HISTORY, the president-elect wrote. MAGA! HAZLETON, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) A school in our area is getting ready to reopen after abruptly closing its doors just days before Christmas. Immanuel Christian School (ICS) in Hazleton will re-open on Tuesday. Its all thanks to a Pennsylvania congressman who allocated hundreds of thousands of dollars from COVID relief funds to reopen the school and keep it open until the end of the year. This letter that was sent to 28/22 News and families at Immanuel Christian School in Hazleton was one Krystle Herron did not expect to receive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was shocked I didnt know actually what to do, Herron said. The letter from the schools CEO states it will reopen on Tuesday, January 7. The news comes roughly two weeks after the school announced it would be closing immediately. Herrons son, Jacob Burke, was a third-grade student at ICS before the closure announcement that came right before Christmas. NEPA to see snow for Monday morning The holiday break is now over and Burke is ready to return back to schooling, so 28/22 News Reporter Gianna Galli caught up with the family to see what their plan is. I sat and I talked multiple times with Jacob and said Listen, do you want to go back to finish the rest with the third grade or have a different education for now? Herron explained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Burke and his mom both decided registering in Hazleton Areas Cyber Academy is best for now. Burkes first day is on Tuesday and he isnt exactly sure how to feel. Like nervous. Might be like, hard. Maybe just be the same stuff, said Burke. The closure in December was due to funding issues, so where did the money come from all of a sudden? Congressman Dan Meusers office told 28/22 News after finding out the school was struggling financially, they wanted to help immediately. When my office learned of Immanuel Christian Schools imminent closure, we acted quickly to help secure their Employee Retention Tax Credits. These funds were crucial to keeping the school open. After the school announced its closure, we worked directly with the IRS, emphasizing the urgent and critical need to release these funds. My staff and I spoke with Mike Jarrell, the schools CEO, on Christmas Eve to discuss the situation after their closure announcement and maintained consistent communication with the IRS over the following days. By December 26, we had partial release dates confirmed, and this week, we finalized the full release of payments. Our offices goal is always to support our community in times of need, and Im happy that these efforts have enabled Immanuel Christian School to reopen its doors next week. The school is an important institution for the Hazleton area, and we are pleased to have played a role in keeping its mission alive. -Office of Congressman Dan Meuser And that effort is going a long way for ICS. We are hopeful and will work hard to explore every possibility for a new vision, a new brand, and a sustainable model for ICS This is not guaranteed, but we owe it to our students, families, and community to do everything we can to find a way forward. -Immanuel Christian School Burke and his mom are hesitant but optimistic about ICSs future and hope it could be one they are a part of again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My heart is Immanuel Christian for him its an amazing school. I know for a fact he will start 4th grade there if they get the funding and keep the funding, Herron added. The ICS board is working to determine whether a new and sustainable future is possible for the school. According to the letter, tuition will remain the same. You can find the full letter from the school below. Press-Release_-Immanuel-Christian-School-to-ReopenDownload Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com. Lee Strang, executive director of the Salmon P. Chase Center for Civics, Culture, and Society at Ohio State University, gave testimony to the Ohio Senate Workforce and Higher Education Committee on Dec. 18. The man who played a pivotal role in bringing intellectual diversity centers to five Ohio universities recently gave an update as to how the rollout is going. Lee Strang, executive director of the Salmon P. Chase Center for Civics, Culture, and Society at Ohio State University, gave testimony to the Ohio Senate Workforce and Higher Education Committee on Dec. 18. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The five Ohio civics centers will enhance their research and teaching of civic thought through cooperation, Strang said. The intellectual diversity centers are at Ohio State, the University of Toledo, Cleveland State University, Miami University and Wright State University. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed the five centers into law last summer when he signed the state budget. Ohios budget allocates $24 million for the centers $5 million each fiscal year to Ohio State, $1 million each fiscal year to Toledo and $2 million each fiscal year for each center at Miami, Cleveland State and Wright State. Wright State recently appointed Air Force Colonel Jason Anderson as the centers director. Miami and Cleveland State are planning on naming their directors within the next couple of months, Strang said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several professors and students spoke out against these centers when they had testimony last year, so State Sen. Jerry Cirino, R-Kirtland, asked if Strang was aware of significant numbers of departures from a faculty standpoint. Im aware of nobody departing because of the civic centers, Strang said. Its a large university system. Maybe theres some people who have left. Ive not heard of anybody. Better educating people on the basic knowledge of the United States was one of the reasons Strang wanted to create these centers. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX These centers are an intentional response to the twin problems of lack of knowledge of our common civic tradition and our current incivility, Strang said. The Chase Center and other centers will equip students with the knowledge, the skills and the disposition that Ohio and America needs in our young people to continue our experiment of republican self-government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Strong worked with lawmakers on creating the bill that eventually was woven into the state budget. He first had the idea for the center back in 2019 after visiting the Georgetown Center for the Constitution and Princeton Universitys James Madison Program. State Sen. Bill Reineke, R-Tiffin, asked what the reception has been like for the centers on the five college campuses. Ive had many faculty at Ohio State come to me after maybe being initially skeptical saying, Im seeing what youre doing, but in fact, youre living out this mission which people of all viewpoints agree in, Strang said. The Chase Center While Strang gave some general updates about the centers, he mostly talked about Ohio States Chase Center, an independent academic unit housed in the John Glenn College of Public Affairs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Chase Center, which will have at least 15 tenure-track faculty members, will start hiring faculty next semester, Strang said. Faculty from the University of Oxford, Princeton University, Washington University, the University of Notre Dame, and Johns Hopkins University have expressed interest in applying, he said. At the heart of my vision for the Chase Center is that it will be a dynamic academic community of faculty and students who together form an intellectual kinship, united around the study of American citizenship, Strang said. The Chase Center will offer a certificate in the spring of 2026, a minor in the fall of 2026 and a major in the spring of 2027, he said. The Chase Center also plans on reaching the K-12 level by offering continuing education for K-12 teachers and providing course materials teachers can use in their classes, Strang said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ohios five centers are going to collaborate to enhance K-12 education throughout the entire state, he said. Follow OCJ Reporter Megan Henry on Bluesky. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Idaho Supreme Court Justices Robyn Brody, left, and Chief Justice G. Richard Bevan, right, listen to oral arguments in court from attorneys on a lawsuit by Babe Vote and the League of Women Voters targeting an Idaho law that removed student identification cards as acceptable voter registration documents. (Kyle Pfannenstiel | Idaho Capital Sun) Alleging Idahos long-critiqued public defense system has worsened despite the states reform effort, the ACLU of Idaho asked the Idaho Supreme Court to intervene. Following the ACLU of Idahos 2015 lawsuit that alleged Idahos public defense system violated low-income peoples right to counsel guaranteed under the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, Idaho passed a law to centralize county-level public defenders into a statewide agency, called the Office of the State Public Defender. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In October, Idaho officially transferred public defense from Idahos 44 counties to that agency. Since then, some public defenders quit, citing new pay cuts; an Owyhee County judge ordered the new public defender agency head, Eric Fredericksen, to appear in court to explain why the rural county near Boise had two hearings without a public defender present; and the Idaho Supreme Court required the State Public Defenders Office to pay for appeal transcripts. Citing statements in court and written testimony from attorneys and people deemed legally indigent, ACLU of Idaho alleges in its Dec. 23 emergency motion that mass resignations have left public defenders with large workloads and that countless indigent defendants have appeared in courts across Idaho without representation from the State Public Defenders Office, and that some struggled for weeks, if not months, to have any communication with their counsel. ACLU of Idaho asked the Idaho Supreme Court to order the state to release from custody legally indigent people who havent communicated with attorneys within seven days of a public defense agency appointment, or if attorneys for them havent appeared to assist at bond arguments, preliminary hearings, trials, or sentencings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Idahos public defense system is headed for a disaster that was not just predictable, but actually predicted, attorneys for ACLU of Idaho write in the motion. Because the executive and legislative branches have repeatedly failed to quell the crisis, it will persist if the judiciary does not intervene. ACLU of Idaho asks court to require regular updates on State Public Defenders Office ACLU also asked the court to rule in an injunction that Idaho must create and implement a plan to remedy its alleged constitutional violations; to remand the case to district court to appoint an independent monitor to oversee Idahos progress; and asked the court to require weekly, monthly and quarterly reports by the Idaho State Public Defenders Office. The Idaho State Public Defenders Office could not be immediately reached for comment Thursday. Agency officials have defended the transition as a complicated overhaul that officials are still working to improve. Officials have acknowledged staff turnover, but said many vacant positions had been filled and that most public defenders actually saw a pay raise under the new system. Attorneys representing Idaho in the lawsuit on Tuesday requested more time to reply, Idaho Reports reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the months since Idahos transition to the statewide public defense system, attorneys for ACLU of Idaho write in their motion, the States ongoing failure to provide the most basic and fundamental services has only hastened, spread, and aggravated the constitutional injuries that the certified class of tens of thousands of Idahoans continues to endure. In just the short time that Plaintiffs have been observing and investigating the (State Public Defenders Office) implementation, it has been consistently clear that the States failures are significant and statewide, and that their impact is only making the delivery of public defense in the State worse. In February, when an Idaho district judge dismissed the ACLU of Idahos lawsuit, he wrote time will tell if the State will live up to the promises it made or if those are mere empty promises. Mass resignations in Idaho leave public defense attorneys with impossible caseloads, ACLU alleges ACLU of Idahos lawsuit claims mass resignations during the switch to Idahos State Public Defenders Office have left public defense attorneys with impossible caseloads, and put others in incredibly difficult situations where they have to show up not knowing that they would be expected to defend the client they ended up representing. About a quarter of attorneys in Ada Countys institutional office have resigned since mid-August, at least some due to pay cuts under the new system, the lawsuit says. Kootenai Countys public defense office only has 11 of the 26 public defenders it needs, the lawsuit says, while Canyon County is down to 23 defenders from 32 before the transition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The public defender in Idahos First Judicial District handles all Shoshone County public defense cases. That workload, estimated at 275 to 300 active cases, would typically be a full-time docket for two attorneys, the lawsuit says. One day in Kootenai County, the lawsuit claims, no defendants in 17 misdemeanor arraignments had counsel. One day in Ada County, counsel with the State Public Defenders Office appeared on behalf of four defendants but barely had time to speak with any of them. The lawsuit includes written testimony from attorneys and defendants. In one, a Kootenai County defendant says they showed up in court three times without their attorney in October and November, even though they called the State Public Defense Office every other day after their arraignment, the lawsuit states. In another, a defendant said they made the eight-hour drive from Boise to Bonner County three times over a couple of months only to have proceedings repeatedly continued because (the State Public Defenders Office) counsel withdrew from his case, the lawsuit says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Overstretched defenders with inadequate access to client files also struggled to make adequate bond arguments on behalf of their clients, the lawsuit says. Clients without counsel, or unprepared defenders, are now put in the position of having to either waive their right to speedy trial or move forward with their defense effectively alone. And since some public defenders left their jobs, some worry that their former clients havent heard from the State Public Defenders Office about which attorney will represent them, the lawsuit says. This story was originally produced by the Idaho Capital Sun which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network, including the Daily Montanan, supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. A disciplinary hearing scheduled for next week will determine suspended Trooper Michael Proctors future with the Massachusetts State Police, according to a new filing in the Karen Read murder case. The Norfolk Superior Court filing dated Jan. 3, 2025, indicates that MSP Colonel Geoffrey Noble may immediately impose permanent discipline on Proctor at a hearing on Wednesday, Jan. 15. Trooper Proctor is scheduled to appear before a Massachusetts State Police trial board for allegations of misconduct in the performances of his duties as a uniformed member of the Massachusetts State Police, the filing stated. Breaking: A hearing to determine Trooper Michael Proctors future with the MSP has been scheduled for next week according to a new filing in the Karen Read case. The filing says the Colonel may immediately impose permanent discipline at the hearing. Proctor has been pic.twitter.com/A8uLNfkcco Ted Daniel (@TedDanielnews) January 6, 2025 Proctor, the lead investigator assigned to the death of Reads Boston police officer boyfriend John OKeefe, was relieved of his duty this past summer following a mistrial in the Read case and his last day with the Norfolk District Attorneys Office followed soon thereafter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time, MSP said Proctor would remain suspended without pay pending the outcome of an internal affairs investigation. State Police confirmed on Monday that they have concluded their internal affairs investigation and that Trooper Proctor remains relieved of duty and suspended without pay. At the conclusion of any internal affairs investigation, the Department may pursue charges that would be adjudicated by a State Police Trial Board, an MSP spokesperson said. The Board makes disciplinary recommendations to the Superintendent who determines the final outcome. He came under fire for a series of disparaging texts he sent regarding Read, which he read aloud in court during witness testimony. Proctor admitted on the stand that the texts were unprofessional. Massachusetts State Police Trooper Michael Proctor opens an evidence box to show the jury a broken tail light while testifying, Monday, June 10, 2024, at Norfolk Superior Court, in Dedham, Mass., during the trial for Karen Read. Read is accused of killing her boyfriend, Boston police Officer John O'Keefe, in 2022. (Kayla Bartkowski/The Boston Globe via AP, Pool) Read is accused of backing her SUV into OKeefe and leaving him to die in Canton during a snowstorm in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Beverly Cannone recently agreed to push Reads second trial back to April 2025. Prosecutors in the Brian Walshe case announced in September 2024 that Proctor would not be called to testify when the case goes to trial in the fall. Proctor also served as the lead investigator in the case against Walshe, who is accused of killing and dismembering his wife Ana Walshe. The department also says they share the results of all internal affairs investigations with the POST Commission. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW A strong cold front moves into north Georgia Sunday night into Monday morning, bringing with it a band of heavy rain and the chance for isolated embedded storms. Severe Weather Team 2 Meteorologist Ashley Kramlich says were not expecting any severe weather, but some strong wind gusts will be possible. Heavy rain will move into northwest Georgia after midnight and then through the rest of the area between 3 a.m. and 8 a.m. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Temperatures will fall rapidly behind the front. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We start Monday morning in the 50s and then fall to the 30s by the afternoon. Winds will continue to stay breezy. Afternoon wind chills will likely be in the 20s for the afternoon. Theres a chance of some leftover snow showers in the north Georgia mountains in the afternoon, but no accumulation is expected. From Tuesday to Thursday it will be dry and cold with morning lows in the 20s and wind chills in the teens. Highs will struggle to make it to the 40s. Severe Weather Team 2 Meteorologists are monitoring the potential for a winter weather system to impact north Georgia later this week into the weekend. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Heavy snow and freezing rain brought widespread disruption across Europe on Sunday, particularly in the U.K. and Germany, with several major airports forced to suspend flights. With the weather set to stay inclement on Sunday in the U.K., there are concerns that many rural communities, particularly in the north of England, could be cut off, with up to 40 centimeters (15 inches) of snow on the ground above 300 meters (985 feet). The National Grid, which oversees the countrys electricity network, said it had been working to restore power. Outages were reported in the English cities of Birmingham and Bristol and in Cardiff, Wales. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many sporting events have been postponed, though the heavyweight Premier League fixture between rivals Liverpool and Manchester United is on, following an inspection at Liverpools Anfield stadium and of local conditions. Liverpools John Lennon Airport and Manchester Airport had to close runways overnight, but were returning back to normal on Sunday. Leeds Bradford Airport took longer to get flights back in the air. The road network was heavily impacted too on what would have been a very busy day with many families returning home from the Christmas and New Years break, and students heading back to universities. Many roads had been preemptively closed by local authorities, but stranded vehicles and collisions have caused disruption elsewhere. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A number of U.K. train services were canceled, with National Rail warning of disruption continuing into the working week. Britains main weather forecaster, the Met Office, says sleet and snow will continue to push north on Sunday and will be heaviest in northern England and into southern Scotland. After experiencing freezing rain, which occurs when super-cold rain freezes on impact, the south will turn milder. The Environment Agency has also issued eight flood warnings across southern England on the Taw and Avon rivers. Snow and ice were also causing havoc in Germany, where a bout of wintry weather is spreading from the southwest. Authorities have issued black ice warnings for drivers and pedestrians, advising people to stay home where possible. Frankfurt airport canceled 120 of its 1,090 planned takeoffs and landings on Sunday, according to the Fraport press office. At Munich airport, only one runway was open while the other one was being cleared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Baden-Wuerttemberg, eight people were injured when a bus skidded off the road near the town of Hemmingen. Long-distance train connections also experienced irregularities in the Frankfurt area. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW Motorists will watch road conditions closely this weekend as Winter Storm Blair hits. Here are some tools to help you be prepared as you travel in the Greater Cincinnati area. Cincinnati has a live snow plow tracker During a winter weather event, the city of Cincinnati has a live snow plow tracker with an interactive map that shows where snow vehicles have already been, when a vehicle was on a particular street and the distance covered by snow vehicles since the start of the winter weather event. There is also a mobile version. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can also use the tracker to report untreated streets. The Cincinnati Department of Public Services relies on snow priority routes to effectively triage street treatment, hitting primary routes such as hills and bridges, main thoroughfares and Downtown first. These priority routes are determined by traffic volume, access to emergency routes, access to public transportation and access to schools, according to the city's snow and ice control plan. The interactive Snow Routes map shows priority routes for treatment during a winter event. The city's website says during winter weather events, the Cincinnati Department of Public Services is clearing 3,112 lane miles within a 79-square-mile area. Ohio and Kentucky road condition updates online The Ohio Department of Transportation has several ways to communicate road conditions to motorists. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Follow ODOT Cincinnati on X for updates on road conditions in ODOT District 8, which includes Butler, Clermont, Clinton, Greene, Hamilton, Preble and Warren counties in southwest Ohio. You can also see interstate road conditions in Ohio and Northern Kentucky on your computer using the traffic cameras. In Kentucky, you can follow The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet on X in KYTC District 6, which provides service to an 11-county area, including Boone, Bracken, Campbell, Carroll, Gallatin, Grant, Harrison, Kenton, Owen, Pendleton, and Robertson counties. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet also operates SnowKY which gives updates about road conditions across the Blue Grass State during winter weather. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Check road conditions in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky Russian President Vladimir Putin does not love his country and people as he is sending Russia's youth to die in his wars of aggression, President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview with U.S. podcaster Lex Fridman released on Jan. 5. "He does not love his people. He loves only his inner circle," Zelensky said in response to Fridman's suggestion that Putin is a "serious person who loves his country." "What is his country? He happened to consider Ukraine his country," the president responded in the three-hour-long interview, pointing out that Putin had previously also launched a destructive war against Chechnya, now a constituent republic of the Russian Federation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin rose to power during the Second Chechen War in 1999-2000, in which Russia forcibly subjugated the region and seized its capital, Grozny, after a devastating siege. "Who are the Chechens? A different people: Another faith Another language. One million people eliminated. How did he kill them with love?" Zelensky asked rhetorically. Ukraine's head of state also stressed that Russia's all-out war against Ukraine resulted in 780,000 of its soldiers killed or wounded, adding that Putin "calls them all Russians, even those who don't know how to speak Russian, on his territory of Russia, everything they've enslaved." "He's (Putin) sending 18-year-boys (to die in war)... It's not that the fascists came to his country, and he needs to defend it. He came to ours, and he sends them," Zelensky continued, providing other examples of Moscow's wars and military interventions in Syria, Chechnya, Georgia, and Africa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though the exact Russian losses in the full-scale invasion are difficult to establish with certainty, The Economist wrote that they already outpace Moscow's battlefield losses in all of its post-1945 wars combined. Read also: Ukraine launches new offensive in Russias Kursk Oblast, mixed reports surface on outcome Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. STILLWATER, Okla. (KFOR) Winter break is a time to relax for most high school students. One teen is using her time off to step up her donation game, by donating hundreds of pairs of shoes for her peers in need. While the holidays are wrapping up, Stillwater High School junior, Baylor Citizen, is wheeling in hundreds of shoes down the empty halls. GOOD NEWS!: Mercy chaplain uses AI to minister to patients after ALS takes away her voice Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 16-year-old is what youd call a sneaker head. She loves shoes. Im always fortunate enough to get shoes for Christmas, but I know some students cant, said Citizen. Her mission began three years ago. It all started with my god dad sending me money for Christmas, said Citizen. She used that money to put some sole into the districts Pioneer Pantry, where students can grab clothes, products, or food, when theyre in need. Its all confidential. We average between 20 and 25, sometimes more, a day coming in for something as simple as a stick of deodorant or a full set of clothes, said Robin Johnson, whos in charge of the pantry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson said shoes are a big need. Every week we see kids that come in and their soles are flapping or theres holes throughout them, said Johnson. Citizen holds Donation Days when companies and Stillwater neighbors come by to drop off new shoes or money. Citizen then takes those funds to do her favorite thing: shop for shoes. Theyre adorable. And growing up, I loved my boots, Citizen said while holding up tiny denim cowboy boots. I like these and my favorite colors pink, she said while pointing out toddlers crocs. During her freshman year, Citizen collected 40 shoes. Her sophomore year, she collected 65. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And this year I got 400, said Citizen. There were so many, her parents and grandparents helped bring them inside. Our house was a wreck, said Tiffany Citizen, Baylors mother. Im happy to have my house back but so proud of her for doing this so its worth it. The high school pantry is the biggest in the district and acts as a hub. Its still too small for all these shoes. GOOD NEWS!: EMSA EMT and Paramedics reunite with patient after cardiac arrest I thought, Wow! Where are we going to put 400 shoes?' said Johnson. Thats a good problem to have. The good news is, the shoes will be spread out among all the schools in the distrct. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Citizen isnt stopping, though. She wants to leave an even bigger footprint during her senior year. I want to double my number, said Citizen. 800. Shes a great example of that pioneer spirit that we have here in Stillwater, said Johnson. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Broward will get a fresh look on a busy thoroughfare. And the reason is to break from its racist past. A historical-theme mural painted on the north wall of the Broward County Governmental Center parking garage at 101 SW First Ave. off Broward Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale that was created almost four decades ago will be made anew. The central theme in the original mural is now dominated by Gov. Napoleon Bonaparte Broward, the countys namesake, who was also a segregationist whose comments from a century ago have drawn scrutiny. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A document that Broward wrote during his term in office called on Congress to purchase territory, either domestic or foreign, and provide means to purchase the property of the negroes at a reasonable price and to transport them to the territory purchased by the United States. The mural has run its course: Some people found it offensive when there was nobody of color, rather just white settler culture, said Phillip Dunlap, director of the Broward County Cultural Division: Its an opportunity to add something new to downtown Fort Lauderdale. Gov. Broward will be gone from the next mural, and likely replaced with one of the regions waterways, such as beaches or Everglades instead. For this next mural, the county asked residents for feedback on themes for the 30- by 85-foot mural, and if the next design follows the suggestions, it could become more about flowers and even the regions waterways. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The survey, which drew 450 responses, showed residents are most interested in flora and fauna, with 37% of the voters, than local landmarks and symbols of progress and future aspirations. Environmental conservation won as the new theme by just three votes over arts and cultural history. Realistic depiction was chosen as the style over bold or abstract. The natural environment, including beaches and Everglades, beat out Broward landmarks and cultural diversity. And tropical colors of bright blues, greens and oranges was preferred for the palette over soft pastel beach tones and urban blues and grays. Some residents offered additional feedback. One suggested the Florida Panthers and Stanley Cup Parade find a spot on the wall. A second was glad to see change, writing: The last was not very representative of the current or future Broward, but a past that was less inclusive. A third voter wanted things left alone: Keep it as close to its current style us native still want some true substance of our heritage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another voter suggested Broward go more natural, writing: I am so excited to see this project considered. While the current mural has been long standing, I truly believe that we need a mural that speaks to the beauty that we call Broward County, from our beautiful beaches and the iconic wall along A1A to the Everglades and our beautiful sawgrass and natural animal habitat. We have already received and are reviewing design proposals, which will be reviewed by the Public Art & Design committee and Cultural Council in January, Dunlap said. The mural could be completed by the end of the month, he said. Related Articles The Fort Lauderdale Downtown Development Authority is providing $25,000 for the work, and Broward Countys contribution is to prep the wall with power-washing and priming, he said. The current mural is composed of five historical scenes, beginning in the upper left- hand corner with the depiction of the paddleboat Wanderer that hauled cargo on the New River in the late 1800s. Next, going counter-clockwise, is the Stranahan and Company Trading Post, and its owners Frank and Ivy Stranahan, who were among the countys first settlers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The center of the mural is dominated by Gov. Broward, the countys namesake, who was responsible for the building of canals to drain the Everglades to make Broward County habitable. Broward is surrounded by workers employed in the drainage project. The opening of Dixie Highway in Dania in 1915 is depicted in the murals next segment, followed by a scene of Broward General Medical Center, established in 1938 as the countys first public hospital. The mural was created in 1988. While many in the public thought the artist touched up the piece in 2002 because it was battered by weather, the artist instead added Dr. James F. Sistrunk to the mural, Dunlap said. Sistrunk was one of the first Black doctors in Fort Lauderdale. Sistrunk, for whom Northwest Sixth Street was renamed in 1971, succeeded Dr. Henry H. Green in 1922 as a physician dedicated to treating Black patients. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Known as Doc Sistrunk, he is credited with delivering 5,000 babies. Sistrunk was known for making home visits and looking the other way when someone could not afford his services. Lisa J. Huriash can be reached at lhuriash@sunsentinel.com. Follow on X, formerly Twitter, @LisaHuriash Mike Coffman is the mayor of Aurora. Coffman previously represented Colorados 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House and has served as Colorados secretary of state and its treasurer, among other elected offices. Coffman also is a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps who served in the Gulf War and the Iraq War. Donald Trump will soon return to the White House, raising the question of whether he will pardon the Jan. 6 rioters whom he has spent months defending. Calling Jan, 6 a Day of Love and labeling rioters hostages and political prisoners, Trump has likened his supporters to revolutionaries who were simply fighting for fair elections and to restore American democracy. Spinning this narrative has allowed Trump to successfully weave the idea that he and the 1,563 indicted Jan. 6 rioters are martyrs, persecuted by President Joe Bidens Administration. This rhetorical strategy is the exact same one deployed by the defendants in the Ku Klux Klan Trials of 1871-1872. They, too, claimed to be hostages, following a suspension of the writ of habeas corpus, and argued falsely that the Klan was peacefully supporting post-Civil War Reconstruction efforts to restore democracy after a fraudulent 1870 election in South Carolina. The Klan distorted the use of undercover operatives and informants, much as some Trump supporters have over Jan. 6. While the tactic didnt work in the short term, eventually the Klan won the larger battle after Presidents Ulysses S. Grant and Rutherford B. Hayes tried to compromise. The result was a violent social order that deprived millions of Black Southerners of their rights for a century. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In December 1865, a group of Confederate veterans founded the Ku Klux Klan to restore and protect the political, social, and economic interests of white people. Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest, considered a military genius and highly respected in the South, served as the Klans first Grand Wizard. The new group brought together bands of white vigilantes who had massacred and maimed African Americans since the end of the Civil War. Support for the Klan was widespread, especially in South Carolina. To combat the groups violent influence, especially over elections, Congress passed the Enforcement Act of 1870, making election interference on the basis of race a federal crime. This law supported the 14th and 15th Amendments, which were designed to ensure the right of African American men to vote. Read More: The Most Important Lesson America Taught Me After the Jan. 6 Attack Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That October, South Carolina held its first election under these new laws. Thousands of African American men voted, and for the first time in history Black Republicans secured three of the state's four congressional seats. The majority of white South Carolinians, however, rejected this historic result. They claimed the new Reconstruction government was counterfeit because they despised the federal governments assertion that African Americans, who had so recently been enslaved, were now equal citizens with the right to vote. When Republican governor Robert K. Scott, considered a phony carpetbagger by white South Carolinians, organized African American militiamen and allowed them to bear arms, this further heightened tensions. The Klan emerged as the voice of the disgruntled white South Carolinians, generating recruits from across class lines with the new members united in their belief that South Carolinas legacy was under attack. The group embarked on an unprecedented wave of terror that included assaults, lynchings, and rapes predominantly against African Americans, but also against white people accused of being sympathetic to the 1870 election results and federal Reconstruction policies. The violence forced African Americans in the northern part of the state to flee en masse to the southern low country where they had greater numbers, as well to neighboring states. Between the October 1870 election and July 1871, in one South Carolina county alone, the Klan killed at least four people and assaulted, raped, or maimed some 200 more. Newspapers quickly began reporting on the Klan's violence and the situation escalated fears in the North of a widespread Confederate resurgence. Congress reacted by launching investigations into the Klan and passing the Ku Klux Klan Act in February 1871. This law explicitly prosecuted seditious activity, insurrection, and the use of violence or intimidation to violate federal law, such as the newly ratified constitutional amendments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In October 1871, Grant declared parts of South Carolina to be in active rebellion against the federal government, suspended the writ of habeas corpus, and deployed the army to help apprehend the Klan. Grants actions marked the first time the federal government had declared an organized group in violation of sedition statutes since the beginning of the Civil War. U.S. soldiers quickly imprisoned over 600 men in connection with charges of conspiracy to subvert the Enforcement Act and for violations of the Klan Act. The ensuing trials dominated headlines throughout the country. Southerners and northerners alike anxiously waited for updates amid fears that the trials could spark a second Civil War. By December 1871, the number of detainees in South Carolina had doubled and prosecutors boasted about having secured 49 guilty pleas. Klan lawyers, however, falsely claimed the federal government was hunting and persecuting innocent men. White South Carolinians praised the Klansmen as martyrs of the former Confederacy. Things shifted in 1872. The zest of federal prosecutors to punish violent Klansmen faded. They were worn down by death threats, repeated local sabotage of their cases, and congressional complaints over the high financial cost of their efforts. They discontinued prosecution in at least 1,188 cases. In 1873, Attorney General George H. Williams convinced Grant that they had made their point, and that further action would be both costly and detrimental to the goal of reuniting the Union. The extended presence of troops risked looking like federal overreach into state affairs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grant was unwilling to withdraw troops and let Klansmen impede the right to vote and wantonly violate the law. But he compromised by issuing pardons for those sentenced in the Klan trials and clemency for those not yet tried, as an act of good will. Read More: How We Can Confront the Myths of January 6 and Intensifying Christian Nationalism The continued presence of troops ensured that African American men could vote without facing violence in 1872 and 1874 and provided a show of federal force to any former Confederate state that would dare to challenge the delicate Union. But by 1876, the Klan was determined to upend federal influence in South Carolina and waged a massive assault to interfere with that years election. The group instigated a series of race riots where bands of white people roamed the streets assaulting and killing African Americans at random in public spaces. Their threats and intimidation worked, and Democrat Wade Hampton, the Klan's preferred gubernatorial candidate, won by a little over 1,000 votes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because of the violence, however, Republicans refused to concede and inaugurated their candidate as well. The contested election, the presence of federal troops, and continual Klan violence threw South Carolina into chaos, which confronted President Hayes when he entered office in 1877. He agreed to withdraw federal troops from South Carolina in exchange for long-term Democratic support. Similar deals in other states essentially signaled the end of Reconstruction. The dwindling military presence in South Carolina enabled the Klan to finally triumph. With no federal troops protecting the state Capitol, the Klan and Democratic officials initiated a riot that allowed them to take control of the building, establish rule, and oust the Republican party. For the next century, South Carolina, along with other Southern states, would enact and violently protect the segregationist Jim Crow order. The Ku Klux Klan Trials have much in common with the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection and the ensuing wave of prosecutions and trials. Both moments featured far-right groups leading or taking part in violent riots that attempted to overthrow a newly installed government because of what they falsely claimed was a fraudulent election. In both cases, federal prosecutors used the Klan Act to attempt to hold accountable those responsible. As in the 1870s, scores of federal prosecutions have taken place over the last four years. Several hundred Jan. 6 defendants have pleaded guilty to federal charges, and others have been convicted after trials. There is no evidence that politics played any role in their convictions. Yet, Trump and his supporters have labeled those incarcerated after convictions political prisoners and hostages." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now Trump will soon be able to pardon them. If he does so, the Ku Klux Klan Trials and their aftermath suggest that it would signal that threats to free and fair elections will be tolerated in America. When President Grant pardoned those convicted in the Klan trials in 1873 and granted clemency to anyone else involved, he arguably emboldened the Klan, which understood that national Republicans wouldnt remain steadfast in the fight to prevent violence and safeguard the right to vote. If Trump sends a similar signal by pardoning the Jan. 6 defendants, especially the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys leaders convicted of the most serious crimes, it too will send the message that violence is an acceptable political tool for overcoming disliked election results and imposing ones views on the rest of America. Brittany Friedman is an assistant professor of sociology at the University of Southern California and Affiliated Scholar of the American Bar Foundation. The author of Carceral Apartheid: How Lies and White Supremacists Run Our Prisons, her work has also appeared in the Washington Post, Associated Press, the Nation, and Jacobin Magazine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Made by History takes readers beyond the headlines with articles written and edited by professional historians. Learn more about Made by History at TIME here. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of TIME editors. Write to Made by History at madebyhistory@time.com. SIOUX FALLS SD (KELO) Here are this mornings top stories with KELOLAND On the Go. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KELOLAND This Morning Sioux Fall police are investigating a weekend shooting that sent a man to the hospital. It happened just before 8:30 Saturday night north of 10th Street and Cleveland Avenue. Officers arrested the suspected gunman whos charged with aggravated assault. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police arrest suspect in Sioux Falls shooting We have an update on a hit and run incident in Pine Ridge that left one person dead. According to the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, Christopher Hatchett turned himself in on Saturday. Driver in hit-and-run turns self in No big snow is in our forecast, but some light snow or flurries can be expected the next 24 hours, mainly west of Sioux Falls. Temperatures today will hold in the teens for highs with single digits both above and below zero tonight. Cold start to the week; Warmer weather on the way For the latest top stories and breaking news, download our news app. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. China is experiencing a surge in infections of a respiratory virus, leading to reports of overcrowded hospitals, new monitoring measures and public concerns about an outbreak. The virus, identified as human metapneumovirus (HMPV), has seen cases spiking across northern Chinese provinces this winter, particularly among children. The outbreak comes five years after the world was first alerted to the emergence of a novel coronavirus in Wuhan, China, which later turned into a global pandemic with seven million deaths reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photos and videos of people wearing masks in hospitals in China emerged on social media platforms and local reports compared the scenes to the initial outbreak of Covid. Health authorities are implementing new measures to monitor and manage the spread of pneumonia cases of unknown origin. Nonetheless, Beijing has downplayed the developments as an annual winter occurrence. Chinas foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Friday: Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season. The diseases appear to be less severe and spread with a smaller scale compared to the previous year, she said. What is HMPV? Human metapneumovirus, or HMPV, is a respiratory virus that causes symptoms similar to the common cold and influenza. While the illness is typically mild, it can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, particularly in infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The virus is not new but has gained attention amid a surge in cases, particularly in children under 14 in northern China. First identified in 2001, HMPV is a single-stranded RNA virus that spreads through respiratory droplets or contact with contaminated surfaces. Cases have been previously identified in various countries, including the United Kingdom. Its symptoms include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and fatigue, with an incubation period of three to six days. Unlike Covid-19, there is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for HMPV; treatment primarily involves managing symptoms. Rising cases of HMPV in China The spike in cases coincides with colder weather and increased indoor activity, conditions that typically fuel the spread of respiratory viruses. Health officials emphasize that this surge is consistent with seasonal trends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chinas National Disease Control and Prevention Administration recently reported an increase in respiratory infections, including HMPV, during the winter. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has not flagged the situation as a global health emergency, but the rise in cases has prompted authorities to bolster monitoring systems. A pilot programme has been launched to track pneumonia of unknown origin, ensuring labs and health agencies report and manage cases more effectively, state broadcaster CCTV reported, quoting an administration official at a news conference. Can HMPV virus spread to other countries? Hong Kong has reported a few cases of HMPV. Neighbouring countries like Cambodia and Taiwan are keeping a close watch on the situation. Cambodias Communicable Disease Control Department has issued warnings about HMPV, noting its similarity to Covid-19 and influenza. Taiwans Centers for Disease Control has said the viruss higher risks for children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In neighbouring India, officials said there is no need for panic as HMPV is like any other respiratory virus. There has been news doing the rounds about a metapneumovirus outbreak in China. Let me be very clear on that count. Metapneumovirus is like any other respiratory virus which causes the common cold, and in the very old and the very young it could cause flu-like symptoms, Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) official Dr Atul Goel said. Reassuring citizens and tourists, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said: I can assure you that the Chinese government cares about the health of Chinese citizens and foreigners coming to China, adding that it is safe to travel in China. The European Union is monitoring cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) amid an outbreak of the disease in China. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control said cases across Europe were not unusual for this time of year, but would continue to assess the situation. ECDC continues to monitor the situation in collaboration with the Chinese CDC and WHO/EURO to gather additional information, it said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The virus, which causes flu or cold-like symptoms, has seen cases spiking across northern Chinese provinces this winter, particularly among children. Photos and videos of people wearing masks in hospitals in China emerged on social media platforms and local reports compared the scenes to the initial outbreak of Covid . Meanwhile, Indonesia has started monitoring flights from China and Malaysia amid concern over rising HMPV infections across the region. Those travelling to Bali will have to fill out a form three days before their arrival to the island providing a record of passengers health, according to local health authorities. Key Points EU monitoring HMPV cases Bali ramps up monitoring of arrivals from China Doctors say it is vital for China to share infection data India ramps up monitoring as cases rise Everything we know about HMPV cases in the UK Can HMPV virus spread to other countries? Wednesday 8 January 2025 00:01 , Alexander Butler Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hong Kong has reported a few cases of HMPV. Neighbouring countries like Cambodia and Taiwan are keeping a close watch on the situation. Cambodias Communicable Disease Control Department has issued warnings about HMPV, noting its similarity to Covid-19 and influenza. Taiwans Centers for Disease Control has said the viruss higher risks for children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. In neighbouring India, officials said there is no need for panic as HMPV is like any other respiratory virus. There has been news doing the rounds about a metapneumovirus outbreak in China. Let me be very clear on that count. Metapneumovirus is like any other respiratory virus which causes the common cold, and in the very old and the very young it could cause flu-like symptoms, Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) official Dr Atul Goel said. How to prevent HMPV transmission Wednesday 8 January 2025 01:00 , Alexander Butler Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HMPV (human metapneumovirus) spreads through direct contact with infected individuals or by touching contaminated surfaces, experts say. Unlike viruses like flu, RSV, and Covid-19, there is no vaccine for HMPV, Dr Carla Garcia Carreno, director of infection prevention and control at Childrens Medical Center in Plano, Texas says. We dont have that advantage of priming or boosting our immune system to fight these viruses. But still, everything else that we learned for Covid can apply to metapneumovirus. She told CBS News: If somebodys sick, try to avoid crowding so they dont expose everybody, especially the vulnerable people. If that person is sick and can not avoid going to a place where other people are, then try to use a mask, use cough and sneezing etiquette and good hand washing. How was Human metapneumovirus discovered? Wednesday 8 January 2025 03:00 , Alexander Butler Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Researchers in the Netherlands discovered the virus in 2001. Scientists collected 28 samples from children in the Netherlands who had unexplained respiratory illnesses. No recognised illnesses were detected in their blood, despite the fact that a number of them had severe illnessess and required mechanical breathing. Before being viewed under an electron microscope, the samples were grown in several cell types from dogs, chickens, and monkeys. Bali ramps up monitoring of arrivals from China and Malaysia amind HMPV outbreak Wednesday 8 January 2025 03:02 , Maroosha Muzaffar In the wake of the rise in HMPV infections in China and Malaysia, authorities in Bali have started monitoring foreign arrivals from these countries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the local health authorities, nationals from China and Malaysia arriving in Bali have to fill out a health pass three days before their arrival to the island to keep a record of passengers health issues like body temperature, cold or flu symptoms. How long has HMPV been circulating? Wednesday 8 January 2025 03:44 , Maroosha Muzaffar The virus was first identified in 2001, but researchers believe it has been circulating in humans for at least six decades. Despite its longevity, it lacks the name recognition of influenza, Covid-19, or RSV, according to Dr Leigh Howard, an associate professor of paediatric infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. One reason for its obscurity is that it is rarely referred to by name, except in cases where individuals are hospitalised with a confirmed infection, Dr Howard told The New York Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The clinical features are really difficult to distinguish from other viral illnesses, and we dont routinely test for HMPV the way we do for Covid, flu or RSV, Dr Howard said. So most infections go unrecognised and are chalked up to whatever respiratory thing is going around. How HMPV is treated Wednesday 8 January 2025 04:00 , Alexander Butler Like most common respiratory illnesses, HMPV usually clears up on its own. Treatment of symptoms is usually in the form of medications to control pain and fever, such as ibuprofen and paracetamol Patients with more severe wheezing and coughing may require a temporary inhaler, according to the American Lung Association. Singapore experienced spike in HMPV cases at end of 2024 Wednesday 8 January 2025 04:30 , Maroosha Muzaffar Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Singapore experienced a rise in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections at the end of 2024, the ministry of health said, but added that it was consistent with previous year-end trends due to increased social gatherings and holiday travel. China, India, and Malaysia have also reported spikes in HMPV cases and Bali authorities have ramped up monitoring of Chinese and Malaysian nationals arriving in the city. Singapores ministry of health has advised practising good hygiene, coughing and sneezing etiquette and hand washing practices to mitigate the spread. Nepal to step up testing for HMPV Wednesday 8 January 2025 04:49 , Maroosha Muzaffar Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nepal plans to test respiratory illness patients for HMPV to assess its spread this winter, The Kathmandu Post reported. While the virus has been detected in the country in the past, officials aim to confirm its presence by testing those with influenza-like symptoms who test negative for influenza. Although infection of human metapneumovirus is not new to our country and has been detected several times in the past, we have decided to carry out testing on specimens from patients suffering from influenza-like symptoms who test negative for influenza virus, Dr Yadu Chandra Ghimire, director of the epidemiology and disease control division. Dr Ghimire advised against panic, saying: This virus has been circulating in our communities for years. We usually dont test unless there is a spike in new cases. We have decided to carry out testing, as the rise in infections in our neighbours have become headline news. What is really behind the mystery new virus gripping China and the world Wednesday 8 January 2025 05:00 , Alexander Butler What is really behind the mystery new virus gripping China and the world What is HMPV? China steps up monitoring amid new virus outbreak Wednesday 8 January 2025 06:05 , Maroosha Muzaffar Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China is experiencing a surge in infections of a respiratory virus, leading to reports of overcrowded hospitals, new monitoring measures and public concerns about an outbreak. The virus, identified as human metapneumovirus (HMPV), has seen cases spiking across northern Chinese provinces this winter, particularly among children. The outbreak comes five years after the world was first alerted to the emergence of a novel coronavirus in Wuhan, China, which later turned into a global pandemic with seven million deaths reported. Photos and videos of people wearing masks in hospitals in China emerged on social media platforms and local reports compared the scenes to the initial outbreak of Covid. Health authorities are implementing new measures to monitor and manage the spread of pneumonia cases of unknown origin. Nonetheless, Beijing has downplayed the developments as an annual winter occurrence. What is HMPV? China steps up monitoring amid new virus outbreak Singapore experienced spike in HMPV cases at end of 2024 Wednesday 8 January 2025 06:30 , Maroosha Muzaffar Singapore experienced a rise in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections at the end of 2024, the ministry of health said, but added that it was consistent with previous year-end trends due to increased social gatherings and holiday travel. China, India, and Malaysia have also reported spikes in HMPV cases and Bali authorities have ramped up monitoring of Chinese and Malaysian nationals arriving in the city. Singapores ministry of health has advised practising good hygiene, coughing and sneezing etiquette and hand washing practices to mitigate the spread. What is HMPV? China steps up monitoring amid new virus outbreak Wednesday 8 January 2025 07:00 , Alexander Butler What is HMPV? China steps up monitoring amid new virus outbreak How worried should you be about the HMPV outbreak in China? Experts explain Wednesday 8 January 2025 07:30 , Maroosha Muzaffar An increase in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections in China has received widespread media coverage, but leading scientists and public health experts say there isnt yet a cause for alarm. Chinese health authorities last month reported a rise in children aged 14 and under testing positive for HMPV as part of a broader update on the respiratory virus season. Photos and videos posted on social media in recent days show crowded hospitals in China, sparking concerns over the virus spreading to other countries and causing a Covid-like outbreak. The concerns come just as the world completes five years since the novel coronavirus infection was first reported in Chinas Wuhan. However, experts emphasise that HMPV is neither new nor poses an unusual threat to global health. How worried should you be about the HMPV outbreak in China? Experts weigh in Everything we know about HMPV in the UK: Symptoms, case numbers and how to get a test Wednesday 8 January 2025 08:00 , Maroosha Muzaffar A surge in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China has prompted some alarm and led to fears of a possible worldwide outbreak. With reports of overcrowding in Chinese hospitals, leaders in the country are attempting to control a new wave of the virus with a spike in cases in northern regions, particularly amongst children. A surge in cases has also been reported in India, Malaysia and Kazakhstan. HMPV is a respiratory disease that causes flu or cold-like symptoms. Most cases are mild, but infection can increase health risks - particularly for the elderly, young children and people with a low immune system - and lead to severe complications such as pneumonia. Everything we know about HMPV in the UK: Symptoms, case numbers and how to get a test ICYMI: Bali ramps up monitoring of arrivals from China and Malaysia amid HMPV outbreak Wednesday 8 January 2025 08:30 , Maroosha Muzaffar Indonesian authorities have begun monitoring flights from China and Malaysia due to concerns over the increasing number of HMPV infections. According to the local health authorities, nationals from China and Malaysia arriving in Bali have to fill out a health pass three days before their arrival to the island to keep a record of passengers health issues like body temperature, cold or flu symptoms. What is really behind the mystery new virus gripping China and the world Wednesday 8 January 2025 09:00 , Alexander Butler What is really behind the mystery new virus gripping China and the world How worried should you be about the HMPV outbreak in China? Experts explain Wednesday 8 January 2025 09:25 , Alexander Butler How worried should you be about the HMPV outbreak in China? Experts weigh in What is HMPV? China steps up monitoring amid new virus outbreak Wednesday 8 January 2025 10:00 , Alexander Butler What is HMPV? China steps up monitoring amid new virus outbreak Pictured: Outbreak in China Wednesday 8 January 2025 10:44 , Alexander Butler A man wearing a mask waits at an outpatient area of the respiratory department of a hospital in Beijing on January 8, 2025 (AFP via Getty Images) US monitoring cases Wednesday 8 January 2025 11:20 , Alexander Butler The US is monitoring cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections after a reported surge in cases across China. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said it was currently looking at reports of increasing cases in the US but played down any concern. It comes as Indonesia has started monitoring flights from China and Malaysia amid concern over rising HMPV infections across the region. Everything we know about HMPV in the UK: Symptoms, case numbers and how to get a test Wednesday 8 January 2025 12:51 , Alexander Butler Everything we know about HMPV in the UK: Symptoms, case numbers and how to get a test How worried should you be about the HMPV outbreak in China? Experts explain Wednesday 8 January 2025 13:30 , Alexander Butler How worried should you be about the HMPV outbreak in China? Experts weigh in Pictured: Public health in India Wednesday 8 January 2025 14:51 , Alexander Butler A woman walks past a public health mural in India amid a HMPV outbreak (AFP via Getty Images) Chinese authorities monitoring HMPV outbreak Wednesday 8 January 2025 16:00 , Alexander Butler Chinese health officials are monitoring an increase in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus that can cause both upper and lower respiratory diseases. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), data from China indicates a recent rise in acute respiratory infections. However, the WHO clarified that the overall scale and intensity of respiratory infectious diseases in China this year are lower than last year. Chinese officials have generally played down the outbreak, though state media confirmed cases had been detected in children in a number of Chinese cities such as Beijing, Southwest Chinas Chongqing, and South Chinas Guangdong Province. Authorities in Beijing have released new guidance for the public on how to prevent the disease including frequently washing hands and increasing immunity. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said on Monday that while the agency is monitoring reports of increased disease in China, these reports are not currently a cause for concern in the US. Is there treatment for HMPV? Wednesday 8 January 2025 17:00 , Alexander Butler Currently, there are no antiviral medications specifically for HMPV. Treatment focuses on supportive care to manage moderate or severe symptoms, according to experts. If youre wheezing, well give bronchodilators, Dr Peter Chin-Hong, an infectious diseases specialist at the University of California, San Francisco, told ABC News, referring to medications that relax and open airways while helping to clear mucus from the lungs. If youre dehydrated, we provide fluids, and we work to reduce the fever. Dr Chin-Hong also noted that co-infections, such as bacterial infections, can occur in some cases, which may require antibiotics for treatment. HMPV mainly affects babies and elderly, says Oxford expert Wednesday 8 January 2025 18:00 , Alexander Butler Prof Sir Andrew Pollard, an expert on infections and immunity at the University of Oxford, says that HMPV mostly affects babies and the elderly. In most other age groups it simply causes the symptoms of a cold, he tells the Science Media Centre. Human metapneumovirus virus is a common respiratory virus which was first identified almost a quarter of a century ago by Dutch scientists, Sir Andrew says. It is one of the many viruses which circulate in the winter and add to the winter pressures on the NHS. The reports of respiratory infections in China in the past few days appear to be attributed to both influenza and this human metapneumovirus, which is rather similar to the situation in the UK this week. A vaccine for a similar virus, RSV, was launched by the NHS in 2024 and new vaccines are being developed which could protect against both RSV and human metapneumovirus in one jab. Expert says no sign of serious global issue with HMPV infection Wednesday 8 January 2025 19:00 , Alexander Butler Prof Paul Hunter, professor in medicine at the University of East Anglia, has offered reassurances that there are no signs of a more serious global issue with HMPV, despite a recent increase in diagnoses in England. He told the Science Media Centre: In England we have seen a fairly marked increase in recent weeks so far the peak per cent positivity is a little over what it was this time last year so no major difference to usual, unless infections positivity rates continue to increase in coming weeks. So overall, I dont think there [are] currently any signs of a more serious global issue. He added: HMPV is a quite common respiratory infection that peaks in winter. Almost every child will have at least one infection with HMPV by their fifth birthday and we can expect to go on to to have multiple reinfections throughout life. How to prevent HMPV transmission Wednesday 8 January 2025 20:00 , Alexander Butler HMPV (human metapneumovirus) spreads through direct contact with infected individuals or by touching contaminated surfaces, experts say. Unlike viruses like flu, RSV, and Covid-19, there is no vaccine for HMPV, Dr Carla Garcia Carreno, director of infection prevention and control at Childrens Medical Center in Plano, Texas says. We dont have that advantage of priming or boosting our immune system to fight these viruses. But still, everything else that we learned for Covid can apply to metapneumovirus. She told CBS News: If somebodys sick, try to avoid crowding so they dont expose everybody, especially the vulnerable people. If that person is sick and can not avoid going to a place where other people are, then try to use a mask, use cough and sneezing etiquette and good hand washing. Doctor says it is vital for China to share infection data Wednesday 8 January 2025 21:00 , Alexander Butler A disease expert has urged China to share infection data amid an outbreak of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) which has spread across four countries. Dr Sanjaya Senanayake, infectious disease expert associate professor of medicine at The Australian National University, said it was vital for China to share information in a timely manner. Also, we will need genomic data confirming that HMPV is the culprit, and that there arent any significant mutations of concern. Such genomic data will also guide vaccine development, he told MailOnline. Expert says situation is very different to Covid-19 pandemic Wednesday 8 January 2025 22:00 , Alexander Butler Jill Carr, a virologist in the College of Medicine and Public Health at Flinders University, Australia, said the situation is very different to the Covid-19 pandemic. She told Politico: The virus [Covid-19] was completely new in humans and arose from a spill-over from animals and spread to pandemic levels because there was no prior exposures or protective immunity in the community. What is HMPV? China steps up monitoring amid new virus outbreak Wednesday 8 January 2025 23:00 , Alexander Butler What is HMPV? China steps up monitoring amid new virus outbreak Everything we know about HMPV in the UK: Symptoms, case numbers and how to get a test 00:01 , Alexander Butler Everything we know about HMPV in the UK: Symptoms, case numbers and how to get a test How worried should you be about the HMPV outbreak in China? Experts explain 01:00 , Alexander Butler How worried should you be about the HMPV outbreak in China? Experts weigh in What is really behind the mystery new virus gripping China and the world 02:00 , Alexander Butler What is really behind the mystery new virus gripping China and the world Pictured: A patient waits in a hospital ward amid an outbreak of HMPV across China 03:00 , Alexander Butler A patient waits in a hospital ward amid an outbreak of HMPV across China (AFP via Getty Images) Covid-19 skewed our perception of routine respiratory illnesses, expert says 03:30 , Maroosha Muzaffar Amesh Adalja, an infectious-diseases physician and senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, told the Washington Post that Covid-19 distorted our perceptions of infectious-disease threats, especially when images of sick people emerge from China. Theres just this tendency post-Covid to treat every infectious-disease anything as an emergency when its not. You wouldnt probably be calling me in 2018 about this. Experts say that human metapneumovirus (HMPV) behaves like RSV, with varying severity year to year, and there is nothing particularly worrying about HMPV. US monitoring HMPV cases 04:00 , Alexander Butler The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are currently monitoring reports of increasing cases of human metapneumovirus in Chinas northern provinces, according to reports. CDC is aware of reported increases of HMPV in China and is in regular contact with international partners and monitoring reports of increased disease, a spokesperson for the CDC said. These reports are not currently a cause for concern in the U.S., the spokesperson added. No unusual reports of HMPV outbreak patterns reported in China, WHO says 04:30 , Maroosha Muzaffar The World Health Organisation has said that it is in contact with Chinese health officials and has received no reports of unusual HMPV outbreak patterns. WHO continues to monitor respiratory illnesses at global, regional and country levels through collaborative surveillance systems, and provides updates as needed, it said. Chinese authorities have reported that the healthcare system is functioning normally, with no emergency declarations or responses initiated. India, Malaysia, and Kazakhstan reported cases of HMPV in late December and Bali started monitoring flights from China and Malaysia in the wake of the rise in HMPV infections. However, authorities maintain that the virus has been around for decades and that there is nothing unusual about the infections. Experts advise practising good sneezing and coughing etiquette, and hand washing to mitigate transmission. More information needed, experts say 05:00 , Alexander Butler Dr Andrew Catchpole, chief scientific officer at London-based research organisation hVIVO, said more information on the specific strain of the virus was needed, but that experts did not consider it to have pandemic potential. HMPV is usually detected in the winter periods but it does seem that the rates of serious infection may be higher in China than what we would expect in a normal year, he told the Evening Standard. We need more information on the specific strain that is circulating to start to understand if this is the usual circulating strains or if the virus causing high infection rates in China has some differences. Chinas state-run media points finger at Western outlets for exaggerating HMPV outbreak 05:30 , Maroosha Muzaffar Chinas state-run newspaper The Global Times has accused Western media of exaggerating reports of a surge in HMPV infections in China. The outlet said that foreign media claimed that HMPV infections have overwhelmed hospitals in China and drew comparisons to Covid-19. In response, Chinese authorities have said that they remain transparent in reporting infectious diseases. The World Health Organisation has said that it is in contact with Chinese health officials and has received no reports of unusual HMPV outbreak patterns. Over the past two years, awareness of HMPV infections in China has grown despite the virus being first identified more than 20 years ago, and has been circulating among people for as long as 60 years. The increase of awareness is primarily due to the improvement in our countrys respiratory pathogen detection capabilities and the increased public attention toward respiratory infectious diseases, Li Tongzeng, the chief physician of the infection department at Beijing Youan Hospital, told The Global Times. Current situation in China 06:00 , Alexander Butler Chinas National Disease Control and Prevention Administration recently acknowledged an increase in respiratory infections, including HMPV. In response, it has launched a pilot programme to track pneumonia of unknown origin, aiming to improve the identification and management of such cases. This involves closer coordination between laboratories and health agencies and ensuring timely reporting of new cases. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Friday the disease was spreading at a smaller scale compared to the previous year. This mirrors seasonal trends seen in other countries, including the UK, which is experiencing similar spikes in respiratory illnesses this winter. What is really behind the mystery new virus gripping China and the world 06:30 , Maroosha Muzaffar As spikes in a respiratory virus and images of overwhelmed intensive care units emerge, there is a worrying echo of the early days of Covid. Zoe Beaty asks if Beijing is downplaying what is happening in the northern provinces and how worried the rest of us should be: What is really behind the mystery new virus gripping China and the world How was Human metapneumovirus discovered? 07:00 , Alexander Butler Researchers in the Netherlands discovered the virus in 2001. Scientists collected 28 samples from children in the Netherlands who had unexplained respiratory illnesses. No recognised illnesses were detected in their blood, despite the fact that a number of them had severe illnessess and required mechanical breathing. Before being viewed under an electron microscope, the samples were grown in several cell types from dogs, chickens, and monkeys. Who is at risk from HMPV? 07:30 , Maroosha Muzaffar Experts say that HMPV poses the greatest risk to the elderly, very young children, and immunocompromised individuals, potentially causing severe illnesses like bronchitis and pneumonia. Prof Paul Griffin, director of infectious diseases at Mater Health Services in Brisbane, told The Guardian that it certainly can and does cause severe disease, thats why I think its important that people know its out there. He said: The challenge is at the moment theres not much we can do except educate people [that] its around to reduce transmission. Theres no vaccine or antivirals, although there are some vaccines in development. What is HMPV? China steps up monitoring amid new virus outbreak 08:00 , Maroosha Muzaffar China is experiencing a surge in infections of a respiratory virus, leading to reports of overcrowded hospitals, new monitoring measures and public concerns about an outbreak. The virus, identified as human metapneumovirus (HMPV), has seen cases spiking across northern Chinese provinces this winter, particularly among children. The outbreak comes five years after the world was first alerted to the emergence of a novel coronavirus in Wuhan, China, which later turned into a global pandemic with seven million deaths reported. Photos and videos of people wearing masks in hospitals in China emerged on social media platforms and local reports compared the scenes to the initial outbreak of Covid. Health authorities are implementing new measures to monitor and manage the spread of pneumonia cases of unknown origin. Nonetheless, Beijing has downplayed the developments as an annual winter occurrence. Read more here: What is HMPV? China steps up monitoring amid new virus outbreak People with HMPV urged to limit contact with others 08:08 , Alexander Butler People with HMPV have been advised by the UK Health Security Agency to limit contact with others and to wear a mask. Dr Conall Watson, Consultant Epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency, said: HMPV is a common respiratory infection in winter, and we typically see activity reaching a peak at this time of year. Infections are usually mild, causing symptoms of a common cold. Our surveillance systems in GP surgeries and hospitals indicate that levels are in line with what we would expect to see. Most people have had hMPV by the time they are five years old and catch it again throughout their lives. As with all respiratory viruses, you can help reduce infections being passed on through regular handwashing and catching coughs and sneezes in tissues and throwing them away. If you have symptoms such as a high temperature, cough and feeling tired and achy, try to limit your contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable. There are many viruses in circulation at the moment, including flu - if you have symptoms of a respiratory illness and you need to go out, our advice continues to be that you should consider wearing a face mask. EU monitoring HMPV cases 08:18 , Alexander Butler The European Union is monitoring cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) amid an outbreak of the disease in China. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control said cases across Europe was not unusual for this time of year, but would continue to assess the situation. Based on the current information, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) considers that the current epidemiological situation in China reflects a seasonal rise in respiratory infections caused by common respiratory pathogens and does not pose any specific concern for the EU/EEA, it said. ECDC continues to monitor the situation in collaboration with the Chinese CDC and WHO/EURO to gather additional information. Influenza cases outnumber HMPV in Chinese hospitals this winter - report 08:30 , Maroosha Muzaffar Chinese hospitals are currently treating more cases of influenza than human metapneumovirus (HMPV) this winter, the South China Morning Post reported. Doctors and officials in China report that while HMPV cases have risen slightly, influenza remains the dominant respiratory illness, with no evidence of an unusual outbreak of HMPV. Kan Biao, an official from Chinas CDC, said at a 27 December press conference that HMPV cases among individuals under 14 were on the rise, particularly in northern provinces. He said that while China is likely to experience various respiratory infections during winter and spring, the total number of cases this year is expected to be lower than last year. Who is at risk from HMPV? 09:33 , Alexander Butler Experts say that HMPV poses the greatest risk to the elderly, very young children, and immunocompromised individuals, potentially causing severe illnesses like bronchitis and pneumonia. Prof Paul Griffin, director of infectious diseases at Mater Health Services in Brisbane, told The Guardian that it certainly can and does cause severe disease, thats why I think its important that people know its out there. He said: The challenge is at the moment theres not much we can do except educate people [that] its around to reduce transmission. Theres no vaccine or antivirals, although there are some vaccines in development. Chinas state-run media points finger at Western outlets for exaggerating HMPV outbreak 10:39 , Alexander Butler Chinas state-run newspaper The Global Times has accused Western media of exaggerating reports of a surge in HMPV infections in China. The outlet said that foreign media claimed that HMPV infections have overwhelmed hospitals in China and drew comparisons to Covid-19. In response, Chinese authorities have said that they remain transparent in reporting infectious diseases. The World Health Organisation has said that it is in contact with Chinese health officials and has received no reports of unusual HMPV outbreak patterns. Over the past two years, awareness of HMPV infections in China has grown despite the virus being first identified more than 20 years ago, and has been circulating among people for as long as 60 years. The increase of awareness is primarily due to the improvement in our countrys respiratory pathogen detection capabilities and the increased public attention toward respiratory infectious diseases, Li Tongzeng, the chief physician of the infection department at Beijing Youan Hospital, told The Global Times. What is HMPV? China steps up monitoring amid new virus outbreak 11:12 , Alexander Butler What is HMPV? China steps up monitoring amid new virus outbreak How worried should you be about the HMPV outbreak in China? Experts explain 12:24 , Alexander Butler How worried should you be about the HMPV outbreak in China? Experts weigh in Everything we know about HMPV in the UK: Symptoms, case numbers and how to get a test 13:30 , Alexander Butler Everything we know about HMPV in the UK: Symptoms, case numbers and how to get a test Gov. Kathy Hochul signed a first-of-its-kind bill regulating short-term rentals and requiring them to collect sales tax Dec. 24, according to a New York state Senate press release and an approval memorandum from the governors office. Her approval was contingent on a number of changes to the bill (S.885C / A.4130C), which will be enacted as a chapter amendment when the legislature is back in session. The bill was cosponsored by State Sen. Michelle Hinchey and State Assemblymember and Senator-elect Patricia Fahy, both Democrats. The previous form of the bill passed the senate in June 2023 and died in the assembly in early 2024, but finally passed both houses in June. It was delivered to Hochul on Dec. 12. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a Dec. 23 statement from Hincheys office, the sponsoring lawmakers and representatives from the state Association of Counties, the Association of Towns and the state Conference of Mayors touted the bill as an important step. Our Short-Term Rental Registry is a breakthrough for New Yorks housing future and a first-in-the-nation effort to hold billion-dollar booking platforms accountable in the communities they operate in, Hinchey said in the statement. Getting this done took serious teamwork with leaders from every level of local government, the tourism and hospitality industry and housing advocates who worked with us to make sure this bill would strike the right balance between supporting a local economic driver and working toward a future where housing is more accessible and affordable in New York. Hochuls requests Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In her approval memorandum, Hochul requested a number of changes to the bill that have been agreed upon by the legislature. The bill, as submitted to the governor, would have required STR hosts and booking services to register with the Department of State, including STR units already registered with local governments. The bill also called for the collection of sales tax from all units, imposing regulatory requirements and reporting requirements for hosts and booking services. The enforcement and data sharing obligations would have fallen on the DOS. The changes requested by Hochul, which will be incorporated in the form of a chapter amendment, largely deal with the registration system. This bill would have imposed significant unbudgeted costs on DOS and would have created a tax regime that differed from what I had previously proposed in my Executive Budget, Hochul wrote the memorandum, listing her main concerns with the bill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The largest change requested by Hochul was to create an opt-out county-level registration system instead of a statewide registration. The state, however, will still keep a database of data collected from quarterly reports from booking platforms. Other changes would be needed, Hochul wrote, to avoid creating undue burden or unintended consequences for counties, localities, short-term rental hosts and booking services. Hochul also requested that the legislature clarify rights and responsibilities for localities with existing registries, localities that ban short-term rentals or localities within counties that do not establish registries pursuant to this legislation. Airbnb Director of Policy Nathan Rotman expressed concern about the sharing of data and the burden placed on property owners and counties in a statement. Airbnb works closely with communities throughout New York, including through 37 county tax agreements that have raised millions of dollars in revenue throughout the state, Rotman said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This unnecessary bill imposes a new, unfunded mandate on counties and creates a complicated bureaucratic system that burdens homeowners trying to earn modest income to pay their bills. It also puts the personal information of hosts throughout the state at risk due to data sharing requirements. County response Shaun Gillilland, chairman of the Essex County Board of Supervisors, said the legislation is a welcome step for the county. Essex County already has an STR registry that towns and villages can access upon request, but the information collected from the state from booking platforms will be a supplement to that information, Gillilland said. This is particularly true for towns enforcing their own policies and dealing with complaints. However, the biggest boon for the county will be the sales tax collected by booking services for STR rentals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From the countys perspective, that was our number one concern that we advocated for, Gillilland said. The number of STRs we have in the county, thatll be a big chunk of revenue that hopefully we can take off the property tax. Franklin County Treasurer Fran Perry said their attorneys were in the process of reviewing the bill and determining what it might mean for the county, as of Tuesday. However, she agreed that the information and funding made available by the bill would be an asset for the county. As a rough estimate of the financial benefit, Perry said the county collects around $1,000,000 each year from the 5% occupancy tax on STRs. Since the county would receive half of the 8% sales tax collected by the state, the sales tax on those same STRs could likely boost the countys revenue by approximately $800,000, although there is no way to predict the exact numbers at this point. Like Essex County, Franklin County likewise has a registry of STRs based on numbered certificates associated with the occupancy tax. However, the additional information provided by the state would be useful, Perry said, since the county does not currently receive information from hosting platforms like Airbnb about the registered STRs in the county. A sign for the University of Charleston in front of its campus on MacCorkle Avenue in Charleston, W.Va., on Aug. 12, 2020. (Getty Images) Families of those affected by the ongoing drug and overdose epidemic are invited on Jan. 15 to attend a summit at the University of Charleston meant to strengthen partnerships and provide resources while giving hope to those in similar situations. The HOPE Healing, Opportunities and Possibilities to Empower Family Drug Summit will be the first event of its kind. Its being put on by the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of West Virginia, under the leadership of U.S. Attorney Will Thompson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Families and individuals who would like to participate in the free summit are encouraged to register online. Thompson has served as a U.S. attorney since 2021, having been appointed to the office by President Joe Biden. He came to the federal role after working for nearly 15 years as a circuit court judge in Boone County. Now, with President-elect Donald Trump set to take office later this month, Thompson is preparing to leave this role as its likely Trump will appoint someone more conservatively aligned to take the position. Ive told people that U.S. attorneys are not necessarily judged by what they do. Theyre judged by the legacy they leave, Thompson said. Im comfortable with the legacy I will leave, because this isnt a permanent position. You dont stay in it forever. And Ive been able to bring good people in and take the office in good directions. The HOPE Family Drug Summit, for Thompson, is a way to celebrate that legacy and, hopefully, inspire hope for some who need it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under his leadership, the Southern District of West Virginia has seen shifts in priorities, he said. Theres been more of an effort to target prosecution toward higher-level drug dealers and traffickers instead of street-level offenders who are often victims as well. Theres been more focus on tracking the use and sale of deadlier drugs, like fentanyl and meth, instead of marijuana. And overall, Thompson said, hes encouraged those that work for him and with him to center recovery and empathy in their work instead of just punitive measures. These shifts, Thompson said, reflect many of the lessons hes learned through his years working in West Virginias legal system, often in the areas hardest hit by the drug and overdose epidemic. One of the number one problems Ive dealt with in my career is the problem caused by the drug epidemic, Thompson said. Ive devoted a lot of my professional life to trying to address that and I do think weve made progress on it here in [the U.S. Attorneys Office] by promoting a wider solution, casting a wider net, changing some strategies in our prosecution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his tenure in Boone, he oversaw the regions first adult drug court program in 2008. Later, in 2019, he was instrumental in advocating for and initiating a pilot program for family treatment courts. That pilot program created through the passage of House Bill 3057 in the 2019 legislative Session saw the treatment courts start in just three counties (Boone, Randolph and Ohio). As of November 2023, they were available to residents in 16 counties, where theyve proven crucial to helping reunite families affected by substance use disorder. Thompson knows how critical people can be of law enforcement and the judicial system including his own office when it comes to participating in recovery efforts. He said he understands, but wants people to see that there is a role for those systems in the entire continuum of care. They can provide oversight for bad actors who take advantage of vulnerable people through things like patient brokering and Medicaid Fraud. We have proven that we cannot arrest our way out of this problem. Weve been trying that since about 1973 and its not getting any better, Thompson said. But this is the reality law enforcement needs to be involved as sort of a checks and balances to make sure people are doing this for the right reason. For families and individuals with substance use disorder, Thompson said he wants to see the HOPE Family Drug Summit be a venue where they can share success stories like those made possible through treatment courts with others who are at different stages of recovery and offer education to others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People shouldnt have to be engaged with the criminal justice system in order to get the help that they need, Thompson said. We can make our communities a safer and better place if we get these people help sooner, quicker and more effectively. The first person that generally will realize that someone in their family is suffering from addiction is a family member, so the more information we can give them to identify that, to know where to go if they see it, the better. Overall, Thompson said he believes theres been a positive shift over the last few years in how the general public perceives substance use disorder. There will always be naysayers, he said, but at most levels he believes people are willing to see substance use disorder today as the disease it is instead of a moral failure. Unfortunately, its become such a prevalent problem. If you dont think addiction has hurt your family, you just dont know your family very well, because it has affected every family in West Virginia, and because of that, I think more people are willing to embrace some of these programs, Thompson said. They realize that people do come back from this. Theyve seen the shining stars People do recover from this, and thats a wonderful thing. So I do think, as a state, that we are recognizing the problem better and realizing that there are multiple solutions to it. The HOPE Family Drug Summit is sponsored in partnership with: Drug Enforcement Administration, Louisville Division Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal Public Defenders Office, SDWV First Choice Services Jobs & Hope West Virginia Legal Aid of West Virginia Mission West Virginia West Virginia Center for Childrens Justice West Virginia Department of Homeland Security West Virginia Fusion Center West Virginia Public Defender Services West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals HENDERSON, Ky (WEHT) The Hopkins County Sheriffs Office says a man was killed when a train hit him and is asking the publics help for identification. Officials state at 4:31 p.m. Saturday, the sheriffs office responded to the 6000 block of Hopkinsville Road in regard to the incident. An investigation determined an unidentified white male was walking north on the CSX railway in between the area of Clarence Woodis Road and the aforementioned location in Earlington where he was hit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sheriffs office and the coroners office are asking for the publics help to identify the male. Officials say the male is white, between 20 and 25 years of age, medium build, medium brown hair below ear length. Officials also say the male was wearing black slip-on boots, blue jeans with black long johns and a red t-shirt underneath a black Under Armour hoodie. The individual may have been wearing a blue/black zip up jacket as well. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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). CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) Five people are without a home after a house fire took everything from them. Now, one man who was inside when the flames erupted is speaking out. WCIA previously reported on a house fire on Winding Lane and Fairview Drive in Champaign. It happened just before 7 p.m. on New Years Eve. The Champaign Fire Department said it was an accidental fire caused by electrical issues. Central Illinois warming centers open this season Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a horrible start to the new year, Gregory Fultz said. Its very bad. The holiday took a tragic turn for Fultz and the four others living in the now-condemned home. The fire started on the main floor of the house, he said. Thank God we all got out safe, but it literally took everything I had. He was upstairs when another person living in the home told him about the flames. By then the fires [was] up the wall, its halfway across the ceiling, theres no stopping it, Fultz said. No one was hurt, but the fire took everything from him. I dont have no ID, he said. The only clothes I have is whats on me. Thank God my friend gave me this coat. Im just in a bad situation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement IL EMA provides power outage tips during winter storm Fultz grew up in army bases while his father served. Years later, he followed in those footsteps himself, going on to serve in Germany and Bosnia. The brotherhood he found in the army is now his saving grace. For a veteran to another veteran, or a soldier to another soldier, its an unwritten bond, Fultz said. The guy Im staying with, he had it a lot worse, he was in Iraq and hes seen some pretty horrible stuff, but God bless hes here because hes helping me with somewhere to stay for a few days. Beyond that, he doesnt know what the future holds, and he said hes been going in circles trying to find help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its one resource then theyll send me to another resource and I end up back at the same resource, so its a lot of talking [but] nothings happening, Fultz said. Now, the former service member is trying to get in touch with family to figure out next steps. Hes hopeful that his luck will change in the rest of the new year. You can support Fultzs GoFundMe here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Firefighting efforts to stem the growth of the Horton Fire continued after the somewhat rare winter wildfire had burned nearly 4,000 acres along the Mogollon Rim northeast of Payson. The Horton Fire burned approximately 3,598 acres since it started on Dec. 14, according to InciWeb. About 457 fire personnel were assigned to the fire on Sunday with containment remaining at 17% the same figure reported the past several days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Firefighters had a successful day of firing operations and fireline enhancement yesterday and last night," officials said in a Sunday news release. "Today, work will continue around Promontory Point, with ongoing ignitions below the rim between Horton Creek Trail and eastward towards Christopher Creek as work continues on this full suppression fire." A public meeting on the fire is scheduled for Monday at 6 p.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 546 West Ashby Apple Drive. The meeting will be live streamed on the Tonto National Forest's Facebook page. Officials previously warned that smoke from the fire was expected to impact visibility along State Route 260, east of the Payson area toward Woods Canyon Lake. The communities of Tonto Creek Estates, Tonto Christian Camp, Tonto Fish Hatchery, Kohls Ranch and Zane Grey Cabins were in "set" evacuation status as of Sunday. The cause of the fire remained under investigation. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Horton Fire at 17% containment with almost 4K acres burned near Payson HR looks a lot different today than it did just a few years ago. Thats due in large part to the AI boom that has taken over corporate America. Over the past couple years, HR professionals have been optimizing their daily tasks with advanced technology, which is changing everything from recruitment and onboarding, to performance reviews. About 38% of HR leaders are piloting, planning implementation, or have already implemented GenAI, according to a January 2024 report from Gartner, a consulting firm. Thats a far cry from just six months earlier, when only 19% of HR chiefs were engaging with the tech, according to a June 2023 Gartner study. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AI has already proved to be a huge unlock for management, who is often inundated with a slew of responsibilities and shrinking budget. But current optimizations may only be scraping the surface of whats possible. Fortune gathered insights from 11 people executives at companies including Google Cloud, Salesforce, PwC, EY, and Canva about how they think AI will change the HR function in 2025. While they each have different perspectives, a few key predictions emerged: AI agents will rise in popularity, the employee experience will improve, skill gaps will be filled, and more time will be freed up for human creativity. These responses have been edited and condensed for clarity. Tracey Arnish, head of HR at Google Cloud There is a big opportunity for AI to change how we work, and HR leaders play an important role in steering a responsible, intentional future with AI. With the rapid speed of AI development, I dont think we can even start to predict how AI will transform HR in 2025. One thing I do knowwe will see AI continue to help automate and augment some of our most mundane processes, allowing us to scale our human touch and focus on where we add the most value. This will allow us to continue to elevate HR leaders into advisors and business partners. Nathalie Scardino, chief people officer at Salesforce 2025 will be the year of agentic AI. Agents or digital labor will fundamentally transform how we all approach work, not only increasing productivity for companies, but also helping humans focus on more meaningful work and find better balance. In the coming year, we will see more HR teams leverage agents to reimagine the employee experience in a way thats more personalized and always-on, leading to a more engaged and satisfied workforce. For example, career agents will help employees find new job opportunities based on their unique skill set; onboarding agents will help new hires find company resources and personalized trainings to get them integrated more quickly; benefits agents will help employees maximize resources available to them during critical moments in their lives; and recruiting agents will help companies source the planet for the best and brightest talent. The era of work we are entering with the help of digital labor will transform the employee experience at a rate we've never seen before. I cant wait to see what the next year brings. Yolanda Seals-Coffield, chief people officer at PwC AI will be transformative for HR in 2025, amplifying the human element while driving innovation and growth. By leveraging AI, including AI agents, to streamline routine tasks and accelerate innovation, workforce capacity could double, allowing HR professionals to shift more focus to our people and high-value activities like strategy and problem solving. Jennie Rogerson, global head of people at Canva In 2025, AI will play an important role in unlocking efficiencies in how People teams operate, but it wont replace the essential human elements, like empathy, communication and relationship building. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AI will enable people teams to provide a more personalised experience for new hires, allowing employee experiences like onboarding to become more tailored. AIs ability to analyse large sets of data will create efficiencies for meaningful change. At Canva, we see this through initiatives like our recent build of custom GPTs to streamline how we review thousands of responses from our People Pulse surveys - reducing hours of manual work and creating clear focus areas and action points for our team. Rebecca Perrault, global VP of culture, diversity and sustainability at Magnit In 2025, AI will transform HR from a function of administration to a driver of strategic impact. By automating repetitive tasks and analyzing workforce trends, AI allows HR teams to focus on what matters mostbuilding people-first cultures. AIs potential to personalize the employee experience and predict workforce needs will unlock new efficiencies, but its the human connection that will remain the heart of HR. AI might write the script, but its human empathy that delivers the performance. The key to this transformation will be balanceleveraging AI as a tool for amplification rather than replacement, ensuring that workplaces are both efficient and profoundly human-centered. Carina Cortez, chief people officer at Cornerstone In 2025, HR teams will harness the power of AI to drive workforce development. HR teams can utilize AI to analyze an entire workforce's skills and identify skills gaps more efficiently, then put into place the learning opportunities needed to grow employee's skills. AI-driven learning pathways integrated into training programs can support personalized employee growth and suggest training with interactive content that meets employees' specific needs, without adding to HR team workloads. Victoria Myers, global head of talent attraction at Amdocs AI has already revolutionized HRparticularly in the job application processyet much more is still to come. In our work at Amdocs, for example, weve seen a notable year-over-year increase in job applications, and since implementing AI, our application completion rates have surged from around 40% to nearly 90%. As applicant volumes continue to rise, HR teams will need to double down on their AI investments to streamline the process and ensure top talent doesnt get lost in the shuffle. AI-driven tools will make candidate matching faster and more efficient, enabling HR professionals to focus on strategic priorities and redefine their role in shaping organizational success. Becky Cantieri, chief people officer SurveyMonkey The key to organizational success lies in a shared commitment to upskilling and reskilling, between both employers and their employees. In 2025 and beyond, leaders must invest in learning programs that equip employees to harness AI tools while also strengthening uniquely human skills such as creativity and emotional intelligence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Employees must also adopt a growth mindset, embracing learning opportunities to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving world and workforce. By prioritizing adaptability and collaboration, organizations and their employees will be prepared to navigate the rapid evolution of technology and its place in everyday work. Piyush Mehta, chief human resources officer at Genpact In 2025, the evolution of the future of work will continue at breakneck speed with continued technological advancements. We see a few key trends emerge. Agentic AI will take over more workplace tasks, creating opportunities for people managers to focus on strategic, value-added roles in talent engagement and retention. Secondly, AI fluency will be a critical differentiator. The focus isn't on jobs being replaced by AI, but on how effectively we can understand and collaborate with it. Finally, companies must prioritize skills as a vital asset, with HR and business leaders collaborating to identify future talent needs and mapping the skills essential for success in an AI-driven world. Ginnie Carlier, chief talent officer at EY AI will continue to shape the way we work, and leaders will need to think differently about its value proposition. Yes, AI is a productivity aid. More importantly, it has the potential to elevate human creativity and bring out the unique elements employees contribute to the organization, customers and their teams. Leaders can continue to lean into AI by providing tools and training to upskill their people, as well as provide clear guidance around expectations of the technology and its impact on work. Calvin Crosslin, chief diversity officer at Lenovo As AI continues to evolve, it will seamlessly integrate into workflows, automate mundane tasks such as handling routine data entry, scheduling appointments, and managing emails. This is true across industries and functions, so HR will surely benefit from being able to work smarter, not harder with AI-enabled tools. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com Chronic health conditions can be debilitating, and skin conditions in particular can make sufferers dread things like going to work, running errands or spending time outdoors. Millions suffer from psoriasis and its flare-ups more than 8 million people in the U.S., and 125 million people worldwide. This chronic skin condition causes dry, thick scales to appear in patches over the body. But psoriasis is not just a cosmetic issue - it can affect the overall quality of life for many patients. Those with psoriatic arthritis, for example, battle inflamed and painful small joints (such as the fingers and toes), tendon pain, swelling and reduced range of motion. Other types of psoriasis, which we cover in our guide highlighting the signs and symptoms of psoriasis, can affect the face and scalp (including hair loss), nail pitting and discoloration, and cause itchy and painful rashes. While there are a variety of treatment options depending on the type of psoriasis, weather can play a vital role in your day-to-day symptom management. In the guide below, we explore the effects that temperature and humidity swings have on those with psoriasis, and tips to help control and manage symptoms. What Is Outdoor And Indoor Humidity? woman with fan Humidity is a measurement of the amount of water vapor in the air, which has entered the atmosphere by evaporating from lakes, oceans and other bodies of water. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 100% relative humidity level would mean that the air is completely saturated with water vapor, and when its unable to hold any more, it rains. In cold weather, there isnt as much moisture in the air compared to warmer air. Indoor humidity is also important to note - cooking, doing laundry and showering all will cause humidity to rise. According to the EPA, indoor relative humidity should be kept between 30-50%. Check out this dehumidifier guide where we discuss indoor humidity, and why it may need to be regulated depending on where you live. How Humidity Impacts Skin Health leg with psoriasis on sandy beach Your skin is a complex, delicate ecosystem and the largest organ in fact, its a barrier organ to protect against physical, chemical and biological impacts. The skin habitat is heavily influenced by the environment we live in, which can affect the health of the skin microbiome and predispose us to disease, allergies, and skin aging. The skin microbiota promotes defense and immune responses, tissue repair and barrier function, while also controlling infection and other organisms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Climate change affects the skin both directly and indirectly, and these changes can be sparked by natural disasters, pollution, rising temperatures, parasitic diseases and more. Higher temperatures, for example, can raise the likelihood of severe acne, and lengthen allergy seasons that can impact eczema and psoriasis symptoms. The water content in the outermost layer of the epidermis (the outer layer of skin) is also affected by relative humidity and temperature, according to one study. In periods of low humidity, limited studies concluded that skin changes included water loss, decreased skin elasticity and increased roughness. Using a humidifying mist increased the hydration of the skin. What Humidity Type Is Best For Those With Psoriasis? Higher humidity and natural sunlight may improve psoriasis in certain situations, while cold weather and low humidity can trigger psoriasis flare-ups. According to one study, 53.2% of patients with psoriasis saw an aggravation of symptoms in the fall and winter due to low humidity and lack of ultraviolet (UV) exposure. It went on to suggest that low temperatures also make heavy clothing necessary, leading to the deficiency of UV exposure which has long been used in treating psoriasis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In warm weather, psoriasis symptoms (especially plaque psoriasis) can flare up because of sunburn, as well as time spent in air conditioning, which removes heat and moisture from the air. Sweating can also increase the itchy feeling. One study also noted that psoriatic arthritis patients have shown a reduced ability to dissipate extra heat, especially while exercising in high temperatures, and may therefore have greater risks of heat intolerance. Symptoms Of Psoriasis close up of psoriasis Psoriasis symptoms may change depending on the type of psoriasis, but some common ones include: Patches of thick, red skin typically on the elbows, knees, scalp, torso, palms, and soles of feet Silvery-white scales Itching or burning Dry, cracked skin Ridged, pitted nails Poor sleep quality Some types of psoriasis include: Plaque psoriasis is the most common kind, and appears as red patches of skin covered by the white scales. Psoriatic arthritis affects the joints, especially in the fingers and toes, which can swell and will be stiff, especially in the mornings. Inverse psoriasis appears as smooth red patches in the folds of skin, and rubbing and sweating can make the symptoms much worse. Guttate psoriasis looks like red dots on the torso or limbs, and can be triggered by an upper respiratory infection. Erythrodermic psoriasis is a rare but very severe form of psoriasis, characterized by red, scaly skin over most of the body. The most common triggers of serious side effects can include certain medications or disruption of use of systemic steroids. Protecting Your Skin In Low Humidity Since psoriasis can worsen with the humidity and temperature drops, the American Academy of Dermatology Association has a few tips to help reduce the symptoms during a flare-up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Limit showers and baths to 10 minutes, and use warm to lukewarm (rather than hot) water. Use a good moisturizer or ointment immediately after, preferably fragrance-free with no irritating ingredients. Avoid harsh soaps and body washes that will dry out your skin even further. Consider using a humidifier if the air in your home feels dry. Fireplaces, radiators and other heat sources can irritate psoriasis symptoms. Immediately remove wet clothes and footwear. Learn More About The Effects Of Weather On Psoriasis With no current cure for chronic skin conditions, understanding the environments effect on those suffering from psoriasis and eczema is keenly important to long-term health. We want to help you learn tips and tricks to manage your symptoms during rapid temperature and seasonal changes. If you want to learn more about chronic health and skin conditions, be sure to check out more of The Weather Channels health coverage, including important wellness topics on psoriasis, diabetes, weight loss and healthy living. Be sure to discuss any questions or concerns about your health with a physician, dermatologist or other specialist. The Weather Company does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Talk with your doctor before starting any new medicine, supplement, weight loss or exercise regimen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE ON WEATHER.COM WASHINGTON (AP) It's the largest prosecution in Justice Department history with reams of evidence, harrowing videos and hundreds of convictions of the rioters who stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Now Donald Trump's return to power has thrown into question the future of the more than 1,500 federal cases brought over the last four years. Jan. 6 trials, guilty pleas and sentencings have continued chugging along in Washington's federal court despite Trump's promise to pardon rioters, whom he has called political prisoners" and hostages he contends were treated too harshly. In a statement Monday, Attorney General Merrick Garland said Justice Department prosecutors have sought to hold accountable those criminally responsible for the January 6 attack on our democracy with unrelenting integrity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They have conducted themselves in a manner that adheres to the rule of law and honors our obligation to protect the civil rights and civil liberties of everyone in this country, Garland said. Here's a look at where the prosecutions stand on the fourth anniversary of the Capitol riot and what could happen next: Hundreds of arrests, guilty pleas and prison sentences More than 1,500 people across the U.S. have been charged with federal crimes related to the deadly riot. Hundreds of people who did not engage in destruction or violence were charged only with misdemeanor offenses for entering the Capitol illegally. Others were charged with felony offenses, including assault for beating police officers. Leaders of the Oath Keepers and the Proud Boys extremist groups were convicted of seditious conspiracy for what prosecutors described as plots to use violence to stop the peaceful transfer of power from Trump, a Republican, to Joe Biden, a Democrat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About 250 people have been convicted of crimes by a judge or a jury after a trial. Only two people were acquitted of all charges by judges after bench trials. No jury has fully acquitted a Capitol riot defendant. At least 1,020 others had pleaded guilty as of Jan. 1. More than 1,000 rioters have already been sentenced, with over 700 receiving at least some time behind bars. The rest were given some combination of probation, community service, home detention or fines. The longest sentence, 22 years, went to former Proud Boys national chairman Enrique Tarrio, who was convicted of seditious conspiracy along with three lieutenants. A California man with a history of political violence got 20 years in prison for repeatedly attacking police with flagpoles and other makeshift weapons during the riot. And Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes is serving an 18-year prison sentence for seditious conspiracy and other offenses. Dozens of cases are still winding through the court Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 100 Jan. 6 defendants are scheduled to stand trial in 2025, while at least 168 riot defendants are set to be sentenced this year. The FBI has continued to arrest people on Capitol riot charges since Trumps electoral victory in November. The Justice Department says prosecutors are still evaluating nearly 200 riot cases investigated by the FBI, including more than 60 cases in which the suspects are accused of assaulting or interfering with police officers who were guarding the Capitol. Citing Trump's promise of pardons, several defendants have sought to have their cases delayed with little success. In denying one such request, U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth, who was nominated to the bench by President Ronald Reagan, a Republican, wrote: "This Court recently had the occasion to discuss what effect the speculative possibility of a presidential pardon has on the timetable for a pending criminal matter. In short: little to none." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One defendant who convinced a judge to postpone his trial, William Pope, told the court that the American people gave President Trump a mandate to carry out the agenda he campaigned on, which includes ending the January 6 prosecutions and pardoning those who exercised First Amendment rights at the Capitol. Pope has now asked the judge to allow him to travel to Washington to attend Trump's inauguration on Jan. 20. Scope of Trump's potential pardons remains unclear Trump embraced the Jan. 6 rioters on the campaign trail, downplaying the violence that was broadcast on live TV and has been documented extensively through video, testimony and other evidence in the federal cases. Trump has vowed to begin issuing pardons of Jan. 6 rioters on his first day in office. He has said he will look at individuals on a case-by-case basis, but he has not explained how he will decide who receives such relief. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He has said there may be some exceptions" if somebody was radical, crazy." But he has not ruled out pardons for people convicted of serious crimes, like assaulting police officers. When confronted in a recent NBC News interview about the dozens of people who have pleaded guilty to assaulting law enforcement, Trump responded: Because they had no choice." In a letter dated Monday to Trump, a lawyer for Tarrio urged the president-elect to pardon the former Proud Boys leader, who was convicted of seditious conspiracy. Judges decry efforts to rewrite the history of Jan. 6 Many judges in Washington's federal court have condemned the depiction of the rioters as political prisoners," and some have raised alarm about the potential pardons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "No matter what ultimately becomes of the Capital Riots cases already concluded and still pending, the true story of what happened on January 6, 2021 will never change," Judge Lamberth recently said in a statement when handing down a sentence. U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols, who was nominated to the bench by Trump, has said it would be beyond frustrating and disappointing if Trump hands out mass pardons to rioters. In another case, U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta alluded to the prospect of a pardon for Rhodes, the Oath Keepers founder convicted of seditious conspiracy. The notion that Stewart Rhodes could be absolved of his actions is frightening and ought to be frightening to anyone who cares about democracy in this country, said Mehta, who was nominated by President Barack Obama, a Democrat. ___ Follow the AP's coverage of the Jan. 6 insurrection at https://apnews.com/hub/capitol-siege. DENVER (KDVR) Amid over 1,000 complaints of street racing in Colorado, authorities cited hundreds for driving-related charges over the past year. Street racing has been a problem all over Colorado. In April, residents living close by in an Aurora neighborhood said disruptive flash-mob car racing happened in the parking lot every Sunday, while Denver police cited a driver for street racing on Interstate 25 in October and the list goes on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In total throughout 2024, the Colorado State Patrol said citizens made almost 2,000 street racing complaints on the Street Racing Working Groups website, while many more complaints were made to local police. Boulder police respond to street racing along US 36 A woman who lives in Aurora told FOX31s Rachel Saurer that she has been dealing with street racing near her condo on East Florida Avenue and South Havana Street for the past four years and has noticed it get progressively worse. Loud speeders up and down Florida. Several car accidents into the fence right here at Pinnacle Ranch Condos, said Marcey Goldis. Youre probably getting, I would say five to six car wrecks out of one month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said the racing starts in the evening and continues into the early morning hours. While the noise is bad enough, she said she also worries about the cars crashing into her complex. Its scary, you know, you walk your dog, and you dont know if theyre going to come bailing through the fence again. Goldis said she hopes that this statewide enforcement will make a difference in her neighborhood. I feel for the law enforcement of Aurora and I really hope they can crack down out here and keep the innocent people safe, she said. I know its not just this area, you know. We got to get some more law enforcement crackdowns on that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During 2024, the Colorado State Patrol and local agencies teamed up with the street racing group of officers, investigators, analysts, district and city attorneys and support staff to make 506 traffic contacts and issued 360 citations. The citations consisted of 108 citations for street racing-related charges, 130 for speeds of more than 25 over the posted limit, 20 for reckless driving, 10 for careless driving and three for DUI. Auroras mayor questions why Tren de Aragua impacts have been felt less in Denver Meanwhile, authorities made 16 arrests and 31 public nuisance abatement seizures for street racing vehicles, impounded 11 vehicles at the time of contact, and seized illegal weapons and stolen vehicles during the operation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the six operations over the year, authorities said there were additional charges which included illegal discharge of a firearm, underage consumption of alcohol, illegal drug use and more. While 2024 is over, CSP said the street racing group plans to continue its efforts to stop street racing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A total of 446 irregular migrants arrived in the European Union through Greek waters since the start of the year, according to a tally of official numbers up to Monday. Of these, 315 were picked up in a total of six boats south of the tourist island of Crete. The migrants said they set off from Libya, the coastguard reported. A further 131 adults and children crossed from the Turkish coast to the Greek islands of Symi, Chios and Farmakonisi. It was not initially known which countries these migrants came from. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The number of people brought to Greece by sea by smuggling gangs rose significantly in 2024. According to preliminary figures from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), almost 54,000 migrants arrived in Greece on board small boats. The majority of them were planning to travel on to Germany, Greek Migration Minister Nikos Panagiotopoulos said. JERUSALEM (AP) Israel and Hamas once again appear to be inching toward a ceasefire that could wind down the 15-month war in Gaza and bring home dozens of Israelis held hostage there. Both Israel and Hamas are under pressure from outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump to reach a deal before the Jan. 20 inauguration. But the sides have come close before, only to have talks collapse over various disagreements. The latest round of negotiations has bogged down over the names of hostages to be released in a first phase, according to Israeli, Egyptian and Hamas officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were discussing ongoing negotiations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel wants assurances that the hostages are alive, while Hamas says that after months of heavy fighting, it isn't sure who is alive or dead. Other hurdles remain. The first phase, expected to last for six to eight weeks, would also include a halt in fighting, a release of Palestinian prisoners and a surge in aid to the besieged Gaza Strip, according to the officials. The last phase would include the release of any remaining hostages, an end to the war, and talks on reconstruction and who will govern Gaza going forward. If we dont get it across the finish line in the next two weeks, Im confident that it will get to completion at some point, hopefully sooner rather than later, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in Seoul on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres a closer look at the key issues holding up a deal: The release of hostages from Gaza During its Oct. 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel, Hamas and other groups killed some 1,200 people and took about 250 hostages into Gaza. A truce in November 2023 freed more than 100 hostages, while others have been rescued or their remains have been recovered over the past year. Israel says about 100 hostages remain in Gaza at least a third of whom it believes were killed during the Oct. 7 attack or died in captivity. The first batch of hostages to be released is expected to be made up mostly of women, older people and people with medical conditions, according to the Israeli, Egyptian and Hamas officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, a Hamas official shared with AP a list of 34 names of hostages it said were slated for release. An Egyptian official confirmed the list had been the focus of recent discussions. But Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said the names were from a list Israel had submitted months ago. As of now, Israel has not received any confirmation or comment by Hamas regarding the status of the hostages appearing on the list, it said. A second Hamas official on Monday released a list of 14 names the group claimed Israel had removed from consideration after they were approved by Hamas and substituted with other names. Israel did not respond for a request for comment, but it has pronounced the 14 people dead. An Israeli official said the current impasse was due to Hamas' refusal to provide information on the conditions of the hostages, while another official said the departure of the head of the Mossad intelligence agency for negotiations in Qatar was on hold. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Hamas official, meanwhile, said that no one knows the conditions of all of the hostages. Hamas officials have said that due to the war, they cannot provide a full accounting until there is a truce. Since the war began, over 45,800 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, according to local health authorities, who say women and children make up more than half of those killed. They do not say how many of the dead were militants. Pausing the war or ending it? Families of hostages reacted angrily to reports of the phased approach, saying the government should instead be pursuing a deal that releases all the captives at once. They say time is running out to bring people home safely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This morning, I and everyone in Israel woke up and discovered that the state of Israel has put together a Schindler's List 34 people who will be able to hug their families again, and 66 others whose fate will be sealed, said Yotam Cohen, whose brother Nimrod, an Israeli soldier held hostage, did not appear on the published list. Netanyahu has said he supports a partial deal that pauses the war, but he has rejected Hamas' demands for a full Israeli withdrawal that would end the war. Netanyahu has vowed to continue fighting until he achieves total victory including the destruction of Hamas' military capabilities. Israel has inflicted heavy damage on Hamas. But the group continues to stage attacks in Gaza and to fire rockets into Israel. That could portend an open-ended war that could drag on for months or years. The Hostages Forum, a grassroots group representing many hostage families, said it was time for a comprehensive deal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We know more than half are still alive and need immediate rehabilitation, while those who were murdered must be returned for proper burial, it said. We have no more time to waste. A hostage ceasefire agreement must be sealed now! The release of Palestinian prisoners in Israel As part of the deal, Israel is expected to free hundreds of imprisoned Palestinians, including dozens who were convicted in bloody attacks. Israel has a history of large-scale prisoner releases, and hundreds were freed in the November 2023 deal. But the sides have disagreed over the exact number and names of the prisoners to be freed. Hamas wants high-profile prisoners included. Israeli officials have ruled out the release of Marwan Barghouti, who tops Hamas' wish list. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Netanyahu's governing coalition includes hardliners who oppose such releases, with some even pledging to quit the government if too many concessions are made. They point to a 2011 prisoner release that included the former Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, a mastermind of the Oct. 7 attacks who was killed by Israel in October. The return of Palestinians to their homes in Gaza The war has displaced an estimated 90% of Gazas 2.3 million people, according to U.N. estimates, with the hard-hit northern sector of the territory largely emptied of its prewar population. During the first phase of the developing deal, Israel is expected to withdraw troops from Palestinian population centers and allow some of the displaced to return home. But the extent of the pullback and the number of people allowed to return must still be worked out, the officials say. ___ Magdy reported from Cairo. AP correspondents Melanie Lidman in Jerusalem, Abby Sewell in Beirut and Matthew Lee in Washington, contributed reporting. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) staff reported loud explosions near the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) on 5 January. Source: IAEA press release Details: The explosions coincided with reports of a potential drone attack on the plant's training centre, creating yet another nuclear safety threat at Europe's largest nuclear power plant. The IAEA team stationed at the ZNPP recorded two loud explosions outside the plant premises at approximately 12:45 and 15:45 on 5 January. The IAEA could not confirm the impact of these explosions. Additionally, the team reported sounds of automatic gunfire from the plant site, heard multiple times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the reports, the incident caused no casualties and the plant's equipment was not damaged. "An attack on any nuclear power plant is completely unacceptable," said Rafael Grossi, Director General of the IAEA. "In light of the increased military activity at ZNPP, I once again call for maximum restraint to avert the clear danger to its safety." Background: In November 2024, Petro Kotin, the director of Energoatom, Ukraines state-owned nuclear company, stated that the degradation of equipment is accelerating and disorder prevails at the plant itself due to Russian actions at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. Support UP or become our patron! Manitou Springs School District 14 is accepting applications for a new steering committee that will oversee the development of a likely bond The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has placed an immigration detainer on the man accused of making a bomb threat and closing parts of Interstate 85 in Greenville. The Department of Homeland Security has charged Ahmad Jamal Khamees Alhendi, 28, of Oak Lawn, Illinois, according to the Greenville inmate database. ICE charged Alhendi with the same crimes he was charged with after he indicated to a South Carolina State Transport officer that there was an explosive device inside his 18-wheeler. Alhendi was charged with breach of peace of a high and aggravated nature, conveying false information about a bomb threat and operating or permitting an unregistered vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alhendi told the officer that he had a small bomb in the back of his truck, knowing it was false and in an attempt to intimidate the officer. After officers arrested Alhendi, bomb squad technicians swept the truck and surrounding areas. This prompted a section of Interstate 85, Mile Marker 44, and White Horse Road to be closed as the bomb threat was investigated by the Greenville County Sheriff's Office, SLED, and the FBI. No explosive devices were located, and all lanes of I-85 were reopened around 7:40 p.m. Alhendi is a 28-year-old Jordanian national who legally entered the United States on Sep. 20, 2018, in St. Paul, Minnesota, according to ICEs spokesperson, Lindsey Williams. His hearing is scheduled for Aug. 6. 2026, before an immigration judge with the Justice Departments Executive Office for Immigration Review, Williams said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers from ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations encountered Alhendi after he was arrested on Jan. 2 and placed a detainer on him. Man who made bomb threat charged: Who's the man law enforcement said called a bomb threat and caused the closure of Interstate-85 Alhendis truck belonged to Globe Life Transportation, which is based in Illinois. The company provided a statement on the event. The driver in question is an owner-operator, and he holds a valid and active CDL issued by the state of Illinois, his state of residence. He is legally authorized to operate a commercial motor vehicle and has a clean motor vehicle record, free of any moving violations or drug and alcohol offenses. Additionally, his Clearinghouse record is also clear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The only issue at hand was that the driver lost the trailer license plate while driving, which led to him being pulled over by a police officer. This was the sole reason for the stop. This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Man accused of closing I-85 with bomb threat placed on detainer by ICE DAMASCUS (Reuters) - The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) plans to expand its work in Syria significantly beyond an initial $100 million programme, the organisation's president said on Monday, citing pressing needs in the health, water and power sectors. Syria requires $4.07 billion in aid this year, but only 33.1% has been funded, leaving a $2.73 billion gap, according to the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). The ICRC's expected expansion follows new access to all regions of the country after the toppling of president Bashar al-Assad last month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our programme originally for this year for Syria was $100 million, but we are likely to expand that significantly," ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric told Reuters on the sidelines of a visit to the country. She said individual donor countries had already come forward with an increase in funding for Syria. ICRC was one of the few international organizations still operating in Syria under Assad's rule, working on infrastructure projects including water and electricity systems. "We need to expand that work, we have a lot to do in the health sector," she added. The organization is engaged in rehabilitation work to sustain water provision at 40% to 50% of what it was before the war, but protection of water facilities remains important as some are close to places where fighting is still under way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There are facilities next to the Euphrates Lake that are specific to the protection requirement at the moment," she said. Initial assessments to begin immediate rehabilitation of Syrias electricity systems are partly complete, but urgent financial investments and adjustments to sanctions are now required, she added. "Certain spare parts need to be allowed to come in because that is also hampering the rehabilitation work at the moment. So there's a political dimension to it," she said. Earlier, people briefed on the matter told Reuters that the U.S. is set to announce an easing of restrictions on providing humanitarian aid and other basic services such as electricity to Syria while maintaining its strict sanctions regime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Sunday, Syria's new Islamist rulers said U.S. sanctions were an obstacle to the country's rapid recovery and urged Washington to lift them, during a visit by Syrian officials to Qatar. (Reporting by Riham Alkousaa, Editing by William Maclean) Conditions have been improving in the North Carolina mountains on Monday, with temperatures rising into the upper 30s. UPDATES: School & Business Closings Channel 9s Dave Faherty reports there were several wrecks across the mountains Monday, including one along Highway 321 outside of Blowing Rock where a truck slid off the road, down a hillside, and then crashed into a fence. Fortunately, the driver and his passenger were not hurt in the wreck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Road crews said sleet, along with prolonged freezing rain overnight in the high country, made traveling treacherous. Channel 9 spotted crews with the North Carolina Department of Transportation about 10 miles north of Lenoir around 6 a.m., running tandem trucks down the hillside, putting salt primarily on Highway 321. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By mid-morning, temperatures had risen above freezing, causing much of the ice to melt. Channel 9s Dave Faherty went to Appalachian State Universitys campus Monday where he spoke with student athletes about the cold weather arriving this week. They were training on a hillside after making sure there was no ice. Were in preseason right now and a lot of the gyms are closed, and I was like, lets go and do hill sprints outside, ASU tennis player Savannah Dadada-Mascoll said. Im not a big fan of the cold, so its gonna be a tough semester for me but its part of going to App State you know, ASU soccer player Ava Kiss said. We also checked with Blue Ridge Energy and they only reported a handful of outages from the ice. (WATCH BELOW: NCDOT treats roads as snow falls in mountains) A man makes his way across an icy road Sunday, Jan. 31, 2021 in the Wynnefield section of Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Jacqueline Larma) AUSTIN (KXAN) Roads are being prepared over the next two days in anticipation of icy winter storms across Texas. Meteorologists are now forecasting an increased certainty of a wintry mix between Wednesday and Friday. Officials are concerned about a possible increase in crashes during the winter event. With good reason: the record for most traffic accidents in a single day, 460, was set during the 2023 ice storm. The previous record, 440 incidents, was set during the 2021 winter storm. Stay home, avoid travel. If you must travel, make sure to check the weather, said Kellen Mohrmann, a spokesperson with the Texas Department of Transportation, or TxDOT. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TXDOT is already out pretreating roads across the state with brine, a salt water mixture that must be applied ahead of winter weather. The mixture can be applied 12 to 48 hours before a storm. IN-DEPTH: How TxDOTs icy road pretreatment works Even with treatment of the roadways, winter weather is unpredictable, and so we advise drivers to stay off the roadways, Mohrmann said. Winter storm lessons Morhmann said that the two major previous storms taught her district to be self-reliant. Theyve stockpiled brine and magnesium chloride, a salt like substance that can be used to melt ice and snow. The agency has added snowplows and blades to its arsenal. Blades are big machines with a wedge at the front designed to scrape ice from the roads. TxDOT crews treat roads with liquid solution to prevent icy roads. (TxDOT Photo) In 2023, the Austin district added three snowplows to the team. In 2024, it added two more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agency has also placed crews across the region to better address emergencies. We do have maintenance offices located in each of our 11 counties, and so they will also prioritize major roadways in their area. So in Burnet County, for example, State Highway 29 would be prioritized, Mohrmann said. Tips ahead of the freeze While TxDOT advises avoiding the roads, there are some tips if you must drive. First, Mohrmann asks that drives give plenty of room for emergency vehicles and TxDOT crews. Second, create plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front of you. Finally, go slow. Its okay to go 35 on 35, Mohrmann said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can learn more about current road conditions and closures here on KXAN.com and on TxDOTs website: drivetexas.org. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Idaho Gov. Brad Little gives the State of the State address before Idaho legislators and other elected officials on Jan. 6, 2025, in the Idaho House chambers at the Capitol. (Pat Sutphin for the Idaho Capital Sun) Idaho Gov. Brad Little began the states 2025 legislative session on Monday by calling for additional investments in public schools, new tax cuts and bonuses for wildland firefighters. When he delivered the annual State of the State address Monday at the Idaho State Capitol in Boise, Little repeatedly evoked a theme of keeping promises. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We also promised and delivered unprecedented investments in schools, the American worker, water, roads, fire, outdoor recreation, and other infrastructure without raising taxes, Little said. My keeping promises plan builds on those investments by adding more support for schools on top of the 80 percent increase in state funding we championed for education since I took office. Most of the proposals Little highlighted in the annual speech were enhancements of programs he has embraced since Little was first elected in 2018. Increasing funding for public schools, providing raises for teachers, cutting taxes, reducing regulations and bolstering state savings accounts all featured heavily in the speech. The Idaho Legislature actually sets the state budget each year, so Little will have to work with legislators in order to enact any budget priorities. Governor calls for using $50 million to expand education options for Idaho families But for the first time, Little left the door open for spending taxpayer dollars on tuition at private or religious schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While most of the funding Little proposed for education is for public schools, Little also called for leaving $50 million to further expand educational options for Idaho families. Little did not specify how the money should be spent. But for years prominent Republican legislators including House Speaker Mike Moyle, R-Star; Rep. Wendy Horman, R-Idaho Falls; and Sen. Lori Den Hartog, R-Meridian, have been pushing for the creation of a refundable tax credit or education savings accounts that would allow taxpayer dollars to be spent paying for or reimbursing families for tuition or other expenses at private schools or religious schools. Until now, Idaho has not spent taxpayer dollars for tuition at private or religious schools. Just like we do with every taxpayer dollar that is spent in government, we will ensure there is oversight in school choice, Little said in Mondays State of the State address. Why? Because accountability in government is an Idaho value, and it is what taxpayers demand and deserve. Just as we expect the following from our public schools, any school choice measure I would consider must be done the Idaho way, which means it is fair, responsible, transparent, and accountable. It must prioritize the families that need it most and it must not take funds away from public schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX House GOP leadership reacts to governors State of the State address In a news conference after Gov. Brad Littles State of the State address, House Republican leadership previewed state lawmakers priorities for the 2025 legislative session. House Speaker Mike Moyle, R-Star, told reporters hed like to see a lot more tax relief than in recent years and less spending. While the governor announced a proposal for $100 million to cut taxes, Moyle said hed like to see three times that in tax relief. And Moyle said a proposed bill this year would direct state agencies to review Idahos statutes in the hopes of cleaning up state law, similar to the governors zero-based rulemaking initiative that has drawn national attention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Gov. Little unveiled his support for $50 million in state funds that could be funneled toward private schools, he stressed that the proposal would need accountability. Asked what accountability measures would look like, Moyle said he wants to know what the governor wants. But we want to make sure the moneys going to the child. We want to make sure that those schools are certified and theyre doing a good job, Moyle said. House Assistant Majority Leader Jason Monks, R-Meridian, said parents are most accountable for their kids education. Theres not a bureaucrat out there who cares more about my childs education than me, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Monks said lawmakers would work with the governor on sideboards, and that he thinks lawmakers can find solutions that satisfy his desires as well as ours. On immigration, Majority Caucus Chair Jaron Crane, R-Nampa, plans to re-introduce his bill from the 2024 legislative session that wouldve created a state crime for illegal immigration. We saw that at the end of session. We ran out of time to get it across the Senate side, but theres great support from the governors office as well as the Senate and the House to get that bill back, Crane told reporters. Moyle also said election security bills are planned, including bills that would require more disclosure for who is behind electioneering communications, establish criminal liability for malicious lies in elections, and to require more disclosure in lobbying and nonprofits involved in elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Littles state budget proposal includes 4.6% increase, record rainy day funds In conjunction with his State of the State address, Little released a proposed fiscal year 2026 budget on Monday. The budget proposal includes $5.2 billion in general fund expenditures, a 4.6% increase from the current budget. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US Littles budget proposal leaves a $200 million ending balance at the end of the fiscal year and a record $1.4 billion saved in state rainy day funds. Some of the budget proposals put forward Monday include: $150 million in new funding for public school, including $50 million for rural school renovating rural school facilities, mental health services and school safety. $100 million to cut taxes. Little didnt issue a specific proposal for how to cut taxes, or which taxes to target, but he will work with the Idaho Legislature to come up with the details. $100 million to fight wildfires. Little called for $1 million in bonuses to retain firefighters and provide funding for the states fire suppression account. $83 million in additional funding for teacher pay increases $30 million in additional funding for water infrastructure projects. 5% change in employee compensation pay increases for state employees. On the heels of a destructive fire season, our keeping promises plan also deploys additional bonuses to hire and retain wildland firefighters, Little said. Our firefighters battle dangerous conditions to protect lives, property, and our natural resources. Please recognize a few of these tough Idahoans we have with us today. I am also asking the Legislature to properly fund the fire suppression account so these firefighters know weve got their back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last summer, I called out the feds for not putting out wildfires more aggressively, Little said. The state of Idaho leads on fire and forest management where the feds have failed. Idahoans are tired of choking on smoke for weeks on end. I look forward to working with the Trump administration to boldly transform how wildfire and our Western lands are managed. Little spoke of his eagerness to work with President-elect Donald Trump and the new administration, mentioning Trump 10 times in the 22-minute speech. What wasnt addressed: Idaho Democrats respond to State of the State address Idaho House Minority Leader Ilana Rubel, of Boise, said in a press conference after the governors address that the Idaho Democratic Caucus is particularly concerned about efforts to implement proposals that would use public dollars for private education, calling the term school choice a euphemism for what those proposals would actually do. Rubel said the caucus was disappointed in the governors push $50 million to further expand educational options for Idaho families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The caucus also discussed issues that were not brought up in Littles speech. Rubel said proposals to transfer federal public lands to state ownership and potential privatization is a concern for all Idahoans who fish, camp, raft and graze cattle. In October, Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador, along with officials from 12 other states, asked the U.S. Supreme Court to transfer 9 million acres of federal land to the state, the Utah News Dispatch reported. While the caucus said it was pleased with Littles $15 million investment in affordable housing initiatives, members raised concerns about other issues not mentioned in his speech, including: Efforts to repeal Medicaid expansion Abortion law reform, such as patients receiving appropriate care in cases of medical emergencies Child care assistance to low-income families SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The Idaho Legislature's discouraging efforts have been remarkably successful in reducing the number of highly-qualified candidates who apply for district court positions, writes guest columnist Jim Jones. (Getty Images) Very few well-qualified lawyers have applied for Idaho district court positions in recent years. District courts handle trials of felony cases, as well as all types of civil cases affecting the lives and property of individuals and businesses. Putting these disputes in the hands of judges without substantial experience is risky business. The problem of recruiting experienced candidates for positions on our district courts has reached crisis proportions. Periodic surveys disclose that quite a few smart, capable, middle-aged lawyers, both men and women, are interested in serving in a judicial position. However, the low pay is always named as a substantial roadblock. Almost any seasoned lawyer would have to take a pay cut of well over 50% to be a judge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The salary concern came front and center in 2022 when the Legislature gave every state employee, except for judges, a 7% cost-of-living pay increase. Idaho judges were already at the bottom of the national pay scale. Comments in the Legislature indicated that the denial of a pay raise was in retaliation for the Idaho Supreme Courts decision striking down a 2021 bill that would have essentially made it impossible for voters to use their constitutional power to conduct initiatives and referendums. Some legislators have done everything in their power in these last two sessions to make district and appellate court positions unappetizing trying to politicize the Idaho Judicial Council selection process, trying to limit or totally do away with a useful retirement option and trying to force contested elections, among other things. Those discouraging efforts have been remarkably successful in reducing the number of highly-qualified candidates who apply for district court positions. The crux of the problem is that candidates for the district court must have 10 years of legal experience just when talented lawyers start climbing the compensation ladder. Not many of them would opt for a district court position without assurance of a favorable and reliable compensation package. The current annual salary for district judges is $155,508 or $77.76 per hour for a 40-hour work week. Most of those judges find it necessary to devote 60-80 hours per week to adequately handle their workloads. Seven deputies in the Idaho Attorney Generals Office are paid more on an hourly basis than district judges. The Legislature routinely hires lawyers in private practice to represent it in litigation on specific issues at rates exceeding $400 per hour. The district court pay level may seem high to many folks, but lawyers who take cases to court are paid much more for their work. Hiring judges is kind of like getting any other good or service, the cheapest is not usually the best. To get good value, we must generally pay a bit more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The other judges in our judicial system are also seriously underpaid. The annual pay of Supreme Court Justices is $169,508, which equates to $81.49 per hour, comparable to the pay rate for those seven deputy AGs. Court of Appeals judges are paid $161,508, or $77.65 per hour, and magistrate judges receive $147,508, or $70.92 per hour. Those salaries all need to be increased, but the real crisis is in the district judge ranks. The appellate courts have not been as seriously impacted because those positions are more sought-after for a variety of reasons. Magistrate judge openings currently produce numerous qualified applicants, partly because magistrates do not face election contests. The solution to the scarcity of seasoned lawyers seeking district court positions is obvious the Legislature must substantially increase judicial salaries. In the last legislative session, the Supreme Court put forth a bill calling for a 25% increase in judicial salaries over a four-year period 10% the first year and 5% in each of the next three years. After that, salaries would be set by a nonpartisan citizen commission, just like legislative salaries are handled. It is a worthy proposal. Idahoans can do a big favor for the courts, and themselves, by vigorously supporting such legislation during the next legislative session. People have much to lose if our courts are deprived of trial judges who understand and can competently decide difficult suits involving the rights of individuals and businesses. Legislators need to know that penny-pinching on judges will endanger the rights of all Idahoans. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX A new Idaho law requires insurance companies to cover six months of prescription contraception coverage for health plans starting Jan. 1. (Getty Images) More Idahoans can now receive up to a half year of prescription birth control medication at a time. Thats thanks to a new law the Idaho Legislature narrowly passed in 2024. The law passed through Senate Bill 1234 requires insurance companies to cover six months of prescription contraception coverage for health plans starting Jan. 1. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In debate, bill sponsor Idaho Senate Minority Leader Melissa Wintrow, D-Boise, said the new law would make it easier for women who can only access a one- or three-month supply of birth control through insurance. This policy represents a significant step forward in supporting Idahoans health, economic stability and autonomy at a time our draconian, conflicting reproductive rights laws have led to pregnant women being airlifted to Utah and more than 22% of our OBGYNs fleeing the state, Wintrow wrote in a column published Thursday in the Idaho Statesman. One-third of female contraceptive users missed taking their birth control because they couldnt get their next supply in time, according to a 2022 survey by KFF, a health policy research group formerly known as the Kaiser Family Foundation. Wintrow has said shes attempted to pass similar legislation three times, and this is the fifth time such a bill has made its way through the Capitol. Last year, the bill passed the House by one vote, and the Senate by three votes. The bill specifies it isnt requiring insurance companies to cover emergency contraception or medications to induce abortions. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The Indiana Management and Performance Hub is focusing on governing with data. (Screenshot) In Indiana, data-driven governance is transforming how the state addresses complex challenges and improves the lives of its residents. The Indiana Management Performance Hub (MPH), which was codified into state law in 2017 as the nations first stand-alone state data agency, is focused on building a robust enterprise data culture that encourages everyone to become more comfortable with the data in their daily lives. By integrating advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning with robust data governance practices, state leaders are crafting innovative solutions to pressing issues. Since its inception, MPH has empowered state leaders to embrace data-driven decision-making, with the expertise and capacity to manage and link sensitive data on behalf of agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indiana is setting a new standard for state governance through the strategic use of data and technology. Recognizing that these innovations depend on secure, unbiased and well-structured data, the state is establishing a strong foundation for ethical and efficient technology use. MPHs current enterprise initiatives include evaluations of agencies current data management/governance capabilities to create maturity roadmaps, the introduction of an enterprise data catalog and the establishment of agency privacy officers. These efforts require agencies to look internally at the way they view and use their own data as a way to improve overall data quality, access and usage. Quality data is the foundation to innovation, ease of use and more robust data initiatives. Enterprise-wide acceptance empowers the State to realize the value of state data as a strategic asset. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US Over the past decade, MPH has worked with state leaders tasked with tackling a variety of pressing issuesfrom the opioid crisis and public safety to supporting transparency in government and enhancing education. MPH has helped power data visualization for state agencies using industry-leading tools like Tableau to transform complex datasets into clear, understandable and actionable insights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2024, MPH collaborated with several state agencies to build out The Indiana Vehicle Fuel Dashboard for the Indiana Office of Energy Development. This interactive dashboard uses data from the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Indiana Department of Transportation, the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission and OED. The dashboard shows vehicle adoption trends and is designed to help citizens and businesses understand changes in transportation fueling. Indianas state government is also leading the charge to ensure responsible AI usage with a robust policy crafted by the Office of the Indiana Chief Data Officer and evaluated by MPH. This policy mandates that high-risk AI projects undergo a thorough pre-deployment assessment grounded in the National Institute of Standards and Technology Artificial Intelligence Risk Management Framework, encompassing crucial evaluations on data privacy, intellectual property, ethics and cybersecurity. The overarching goal? To harness the transformative power of AI while diligently managing its risks, ensuring that innovation and responsibility go hand in hand. How it works The Indiana Department of Workforce Development is also harnessing AI and data integration with a powerful tool called Pivot that makes personalized career and training recommendations in the states Unemployment Insurance system. By combining data from the statewide longitudinal data system (SLDS) housed within MPH, along with data from the Department of Education and the Commission for Higher Education, the tool empowers job seekers by providing insights into median wages, job openings, demand, job descriptions, training duration and completion. The model was thoughtfully trained in an MPH environment using ten years of education and workforce records and is helping users pursue stable and fulfilling career paths to make informed decisions about their future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indianas forward-thinking data strategy is about more than technology; its a vision of governance that prioritizes collaboration, ethical responsibility and education. Employees must be prepared for this ever-changing data landscape. A cornerstone of MPHs approach is fostering data literacy to the state workforce, a vital skill in todays information-rich world. MPH created a customized data proficiency program for state employees (and the public) that is fun, approachable and gamified. The training ensures state employees are equipped to understand and apply data effectively, making informed decisions that drive meaningful progress. Additional lessons are being added to stay current with emerging trends like AI. With its unwavering commitment to transparency, privacy and continuous improvement, Indiana is not just addressing todays challenges but is also paving the way for a smarter, data-driven future. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX This article will update often with new information. Refresh to see the latest. Closures abound across Central Indiana on Monday as snowfall comes to an end, leaving behind accumulations of up to 9.4 inches. The National Weather Service declared Indianapolis' official total Sunday and Monday snowfall to be 7.8 inches the highest total for a storm here in at least three years. SNOWFALL UPDATE: With snow having ended, the official final storm snowfall at NWS Indianapolis is 7.8". #INwx #indy #snOMG NWS Indianapolis (@NWSIndianapolis) January 6, 2025 Wheeler Mission among sites open to single men, women Several Indianapolis-area shelters are open to individuals and families in need of a place to stay. Wheeler Mission, the area's largest shelter provider, has cots and floor mats available to accommodate visitors beyond its normal capacity as part of a "Winter Contingency Plan" in partnership with the Coalition for Homelessness Prevention and City of Indianapolis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senior Director of Community Relations and Development Brian Crispin told IndyStar Monday that the Wheeler Mission Shelter for Men (SFM) had filled its 250-bed capacity but that roughly half of its 100 overflow mats were still available. The Center for Women and Children is presently at capacity for families, but Crispin said there are many beds available for single women. In addition to sleeping accommodations, occupants at both Wheeler shelters receive lunch and dinner administered by full-time staff and volunteers. More: How Indy orgs keep homeless population safe during snowstorm and cold Sledding at Sarah Bolton Park Siblings Miles and Nora Harris, ages 11 and 8 respectively, may have been some of the first kids sledding Monday at Sarah Bolton Park in Beech Grove. They certainly werent the last. By 2:30 p.m., dozens of children could be seen climbing the parks snow-covered hills, arms laden with brightly colored sleds. Miles Harris, 11, and Nora Harris, 8, are sledding down a hill in Sarah Bolton Park in Beech Grove, Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. Miles and Nora, along with their younger brother, Felix, had been out sledding since 1:30 p.m. Its a family tradition, remarked their grandfather, 65 year-old Don Sommer, who said hes brought Miles to the park on snowy days ever since he was an infant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My favorite thing about snow is sledding. Ive had this one for a long time, said Miles, pointing to his red plastic sled before rushing up the hill to join his sister for another go. Finding time for some fun Katelyn Blum, and her 6-year-old daughter Beatrice, spent the afternoon Jan. 6, 2025 sledding near the Colts Canal Playspace. Katelyn Blum and her 6-year-old daughter, Beatrice, spent the afternoon sledding near the downtown canal. Blum worked from home and her daughter's school was canceled, but despite the less-than-ideal conditions, the duo considered Monday a nice day. Indianapolis police take patrol break to go sledding The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department shared a video of officers enjoying a quick slide down a hill while on patrol. "Even on patrol, we couldn't resist a quick trip down the hill," the post from IMPD reads. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police Chief Chris Bailey was quick to ask, "where was my invite?" Even on patrol, we couldnt resist a quick trip down the hill! Stay safe & warm #Indy! pic.twitter.com/ZBTYkXHZR9 IMPD (@IMPDnews) January 6, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement See snow photos from across Indiana City-County Council rescheduled due to weather The Indianapolis City-County Council announced in an email, that it will be rescheduling Monday's council meeting, due to the weather. The council will be rescheduling its meeting for Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Public Assembly Room of the City-County Building. A pug's snow adventure Raven Ames, a 7-year resident of Indianapolis, took her dog, Tarot, outside her downtown apartment building to do her business Monday afternoon. Ames dressed the pug in boots, socks, a onesie and a coat to keep her warm.She hates the snow and cold, Ames said of her 2.5-year-old dog. With this type of weather its really hard to get her to do anything.Tarot, a pug, is not a breed thats meant for the cold, Ames added. Downtown Indianapolis resident Raven Ames takes her pug, Tarot, outside Monday afternoon, Jan. 6, 2025, after a two-day storm brought more than 7 inches of snow to the city. A winter storm warning remains in effect until 7 p.m. Monday for most of the state. The National Weather Service forecasts says snow is continuing to taper off southeast of the city, and it is expected to stick around as average low temperatures plummet to single digits by Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read the latest updates about road conditions, closures and warming centers here. Indiana counties under travel advisories According to the Indiana Department of Homeland Security's travel advisory map, dozens of Indiana counties are under some type of travel alert. Early Monday 25 counties in the southern portion of the state had a travel warning, meaning travel is restricted to emergency management and first responders. Those counties include: Bartholomew, Brown, Clark, Crawford, Decatur, Dubois, Floyd, Franklin, Gibson, Harrison, Jackson, Jefferson, Jennings, Johnson, Knox, Lawrence, Monroe, Morgan, Orange, Perry, Ripley, Rush, Scott, Switzerland, Union, Vanderburgh, Warrick and Washington. Nearly two dozen counties were under a travel watch. A travel watch means road conditions are threatening to the safety of the public. During a watch only essential travel, such as to and from work or in emergency situations, is recommended. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than a dozen were under a yellow travel advisory, which is the lowest threat. During a travel advisory, routine travel may be restricted because of a hazardous situation, and people should use caution or avoid those areas. See the latest on travel advisories online at in.gov/dhs/travel-advisory-map Jackknifed semi crash shuts down I-70 east near Centerville Indiana State Police said Interstate 70 eastbound at mile marker 141 is closed due to a jackknifed semi as of 11:45 a.m. Emergency crews are working to clear the roadway. The agency is encouraging people to look for alternative routes and avoid the area to allow responders to work safely. According to Trafficwise, the crash happened between Jacksonburg Road and Mineral Springs Road, which is 3 miles west of the Centerville area. All lanes are closed in the eastbound direction of travel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here in Indianapolis, IMPD has had its issues with a semi stuck in the snow at the I-69 ramp from East 82nd Street. Please be careful and avoid driving unless necessary. This photo of a semi stuck in the snow is from Monday at 11:30 am at the I-69 on ramp from E 82nd St. https://t.co/8MXj3GuWiz pic.twitter.com/zAe8kuHp3g IMPD North District (@IMPDNorth) January 6, 2025 Indianapolis warming centers The Broad Ripple Park Family Center and Garfield Park Family Center are open as warming centers Monday. Both centers will be open from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. All other centers will be closed today. The Broad Ripple Park Family Center and Garfield Park Family Center are open as warming centers today, 1/6/25. Both centers will be open from 12pm - 8pm. All other centers will be closed today. Visit https://t.co/wDVWRMRSTK for updates and to learn more. pic.twitter.com/TwuXK1uClx Indy Parks (@IndyParksandRec) January 6, 2025 Here's what's opened and closed in Indianapolis With a lot of schools closed, parents want to keep children entertained during this snow day. But be warned, as a lot of places around the city are closed as well. Malls, entertainment and more: Here's what's open, closed during Indiana snowstorm Snowfall total for Indianapolis from Winter Storm Blair The National Weather Service says that snow at its location by the airport has come to an end and the tally for this storm lands at 7.8 inches as of 11 a.m. Snow ends for some parts of Indiana The National Weather Service Indianapolis says snowfall has come to an end in the northwest as this band pushes southeast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "A heavier band of snow has set up along the back end, allowing for some moderate snow in areas before it finally ends," NWS said on X. They continue to urge caution on roads, which remain icy in many area. Snow has come to an end for the NW and continuing to push SE. A heavier band of snow has set up along the back end, allowing for some moderate snow in areas before it finally ends. Take it slow on the roads if you must be out! #INwx pic.twitter.com/vzIa9VH85N NWS Indianapolis (@NWSIndianapolis) January 6, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How to watch live traffic cameras If you're trying to access traffic cameras to plan ahead and avoid any road issues in Indianapolis, you can with WeatherBug, who has multiple web cameras around the city. INDOT also has a site where you can search via a map for the different cameras attached to snow plows, see where any unplanned traffic incidents are happening and check out the same type of weather traffic cameras to get a real-time update on what the roads are looking like. Indianapolis trash pickup Trash pickup in Indianapolis may be delayed but is still planned for Monday. Click the link below to learn what to do about snow around your trash can and what's going on with bulk pickup. Is trash pick up delayed because of the See what Indy residents can expect. Who to call for information about storm travel, emergencies As the storm goes into its second day, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department is asking residents to avoid calling 911 for non-emergencies, such as road conditions or weather reports. Here are the numbers available for different resources: 911 - Immediate threat to safety, medical emergencies, in progress events 311 - Non-emergency reports, vehicle accidents without injury, no immediate threat to safety 211 - Connect to local resources and social services 988 - Support for mental health, suicidal and/or substance use crises 511 - Real-time traffic information, road conditions, and weather alerts Be careful when shoveling snow If you are headed out to shovel a path out of your home, whether that be today or tomorrow, the American Heart Association encourages Hoosiers to protect their hearts while shoveling. Shovelers should seek immediate treatment if they experience any signs or symptoms of a heart attack, the AHA says. Research shows that many people may face an increased risk of a heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest after shoveling heavy snow. How to stay safe: Heavy shoveling may put some at risk for heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest How much snow will Indianapolis get Monday The National Weather Service predicts areas south of I-70 will see an additional 1-3 inches of snow Monday. Wind gusts could reach 40 mph from the northeast and cause blowing and drifting over roadways. Areas south of I-70 will see an additional 1-3 inches of snow until it ends early this afternoon from NW-SE. Wind gusts to 40 mph from the NE will cause considerable blowing and drifting. Bring extra clothes and a winter kit if you venture out. #INwx #nwsind pic.twitter.com/unooTmsieF NWS Indianapolis (@NWSIndianapolis) January 6, 2025 An area of light to moderate snow will move northeast across the Metro and points south and west through 8 AM. Another half an inch or so of snow is possible. #INwx #nwsind pic.twitter.com/NzDugQSwHO NWS Indianapolis (@NWSIndianapolis) January 6, 2025 How much snow has fallen in Indianapolis Some parts of southern Indianapolis have seen more than 6 inches of snow since Sunday morning, according to the National Weather Service. Snow totals recorded Sunday: Indianapolis International Airport: 4.4 inches (10 p.m.) Westfield: 4.8 inches (9:15 p.m.) Plainfield: 4.7 inches (9:10 p.m.) Carmel: 5 inches (9 p.m.) Castleton: 5 inches (8:28 p.m.) Southport : 6.6 inches (8:27 p.m.) Meridian Hills : 6 inches (8:26 p.m.) Downtown Monument Circle: 4.1 inches (8 p.m.) Speedway : 4 inches (8 p.m.) Eagle Creek Reservoir: 5 inches (7:53 p.m.) Homecroft : 5 inches (7:15 p.m.) Zionsville : 4.9 inches (7 p.m.) Geist Reservoir: 4.5 inches (6:24 p.m.) How much snow has hit Indiana so far? See snowfall totals around the state School closures in Indianapolis Most schools made the call on Sunday evening about classes today. Check the link below to see if your child has a day off, a remote work day, or a makeup date that needs to be added to your calendar. More: Is school closed or delayed Monday? Here's the list for the Indianapolis area Indianapolis road conditions IMPD has been called to over 80 crashes, slide offs, and disabled vehicles since noon. If you dont have to be out - stay home! pic.twitter.com/7EnVpmOOYv IMPD (@IMPDnews) January 6, 2025 Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers were called to more than 80 accidents, slideoffs and disabled vehicles beginning at noon Sunday, the agency said at 7:40 p.m. Indiana State Police also were reporting crashes along snow-covered roadways. Both agencies encourage people to stay off the road and only travel is absolutely necessary. The Indiana State Police, Indianapolis District has already recorded 151 vehicle crashes, including 12 with injuries, 76 road slide-offs, 103 motorists assists where the vehicle is either disabled or been stuck and 67 traffic hazards where a car or something else was in the road. Statewide, Indiana State Police seen 259 crashes with 271 slide-offs of the road. Updates crash numbers for the State Police, Indianapolis District 151 crashes, 12 with injuries 76 slide offs 103 motorists assists (disabled or stuck vehicles) 67 Traffic Hazard (vehicle or something in the road) Statewide ISP: 259 crashes 271 slide offs pic.twitter.com/dVUBwE5Dzn Sgt. John Perrine (@ISPIndianapolis) January 6, 2025 You can watch in real-time how Indy DPW is clearing the roads through Indy Snow Force map. Reading the map Light blue lines show plowing that is currently in progress. Lime green lines show any plowing that has happened in 0-2 hours. Dark blue lines show any plowing that has happened in 2-4 hours. Magenta lines show any plowing that has happened in 4-6 hours. Red lines show any plowing that has happened in 6-8 hours. Any snow plows that are more than 8 hours long are outlined in gray lines. Indianapolis flight cancellations and delays More than 100 flights scheduled into or out of the Indianapolis International Airport on Sunday were canceled due to the winter snow, and those numbers climbing again Monday. Flight-tracking website FlightAware shows 36 flight delays within, into or out of the U.S. at the Indianapolis airport. There's a total of 55 cancellations at Indianapolis International Airport. The Indianapolis International Airport has remained open through the snowstorm, but if weather is severe, air traffic control could issue a ground stop. Check your flight status with your airline before heading to the airport. This winter wonderland is causing lots of flight disruptions, but our terminal and runways are open. Check with your airline for your flight status and allow extra travel time to arrive at the airport. https://t.co/1Fyql7h4lO Indianapolis International Airport (IND) (@INDairport) January 6, 2025 How to check Indiana road conditions Before heading out the door, check the status of road conditions, including road closures, crashes and live webcams using Indiana's online Trafficwise map at 511in.org, or visit our gridlock guide page for live traffic cams and more. INDOT's CARS Program provides information about road conditions, closures and width and weight restrictions. The website has a color-coded map of Indiana's highways and highlights hazardous road conditions and travel delays. Indiana weather radar Weather info you need Indiana Weather Alerts: Warnings, Watches and Advisories. Indiana power outage map: How to check your status. Internet outages: How to track them. What you should and shouldn't do when the power is out. Your neighbor left their pet outside. Who you should call. Where to report power outages and downed lines AES Indiana customers: 317-261-8111 Duke Energy customers: 1-800-343-3525 How to report downed traffic signals or tree limbs blocking a road If you encounter a downed traffic signal or a limb blocking a roadway, contact the Mayor's Action Center at 317-327-4622 or online at RequestIndy.gov. When calling after hours, press "2" to be connected. Indianapolis and Indiana road conditions Check road conditions at 511in.org. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indianapolis snow totals, forecast, road conditions as storm ends SAO PAULO (AP) Indonesia has been admitted as a full member of the BRICS bloc of developing economies, the group's presiding country, Brazil, announced Monday. Indonesias candidacy was endorsed by BRICS leaders in August 2023, according to the foreign ministry of Brazil, which holds the groups presidency for 2025. However, the world's fourth most populous nation opted to formally join the bloc only after the formation of its newly elected government last year. The Brazilian government welcomes Indonesias entry into the BRICS, the government said in a statement. With the largest population and economy in Southeast Asia, Indonesia shares with other members a commitment to reforming global governance institutions and contributes positively to deepening South-South cooperation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indonesias Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement Tuesday said that it reflects Indonesias increasingly active role in global issues, and its commitment to strengthening multilateral cooperation. Indonesia views its membership in BRICS as a strategic step to increase collaboration and cooperation with other developing countries, based on the principles of equality, mutual respect, and sustainable development, said the statement. BRICS was formed by Brazil, Russia, India and China in 2009, and South Africa was added in 2010. Last year, the alliance expanded to embrace Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates. Saudi Arabia has been invited to join but has not yet done so. China, the worlds second largest economy, warmly welcomes and congratulates Indonesia on joining the bloc, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said. He described Indonesia as a major developing country and an important force in the Global South that will make a positive contribution to the development of the BRICS mechanism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Turkey, Azerbaijan and Malaysia have formally applied to become members and a few others have expressed interest. The organization was created as a counterweight to the Group of Seven, comprised of developed nations. Its name derives from an economic term used in the early 2000s to describe rising countries expected to dominate the global economy by 2050. Before Indonesias membership, the bloc accounted for nearly 45% of the worlds population and 35% of global gross domestic product, measured using purchasing power parity. ___ This version has corrected that Brazil holds the BRICS presidency in 2025 not 2024. ___ Associated Press writer Edna Tarigan in Jakarta, Indonesia, contributed to this report. JAKARTA (Reuters) - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto's ambitious multi-billion dollar programme to provide free meals to more than a quarter of his people was officially underway on Monday, officials said, with 570,000 mouths to feed on its opening day. Despite being the centrepiece of an election campaign that catapulted Prabowo to power last year, the scheme was rolled out with little fanfare on Monday, with no official launch and just 190 kitchens involved in preparing the first meals to school children and pregnant women in more than 20 provinces. The free meal plan will be a Herculean logistical effort when in full swing, with a target by 2029 of reaching 82.9 million of the country's 280 million population. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prabowo's signature policy has been controversial, however, with previous estimates of its cost of $28 billion over five years triggering concern among some economists that it could dent Indonesia's hard-won reputation for fiscal prudence. Prabowo has defended the programme and last month described it as strategic in countering child malnutrition and spurring growth in Indonesia's economy at regional level. It is estimated to cost 71 trillion rupiah ($4.39 billion) in its first stage this year, providing meals for 15 million people. At an elementary school in West Jakarta, staff carried food trays to class and students picked them up one by one, finding rice, fried chicken, fried tofu, beans, and an orange. Hana Yohana, a parent of a first grader, said she hoped the programme continues as it made her morning routine easier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Thank God, this helps us. We normally had to work hard preparing food every morning, and now we don't," she said. The government and military, who will help prepare and distribute the meals, have been running pilot programmes where they have handed out trays of food including rice, chicken and milk. The number of meal recipients will gradually expand to 3 million by March and more throughout the year, according to Dedek Prayudi, a spokesperson for Prabowo's office. Dedek said milk would be given but not every day. Indonesia has imported dairy cows from Australia to boost milk production. ($1 = 16,193.0000 rupiah) (Reporting by Yuddy Cahya Budiman and Stanley Widianto; Editing by Martin Petty) JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) Indonesia's new government started an ambitious project on Monday to fight malnutrition by feeding nearly 90 million children and pregnant women that is expected to cost $28 billion through 2029, although critics question whether the program is affordable. The Free Nutritious Meal program delivers on a campaign promise by President Prabowo Subianto, who was elected last year to lead the nation, which has more than 282 million people and Southeast Asia's largest economy. He said the program aims to fight the stunting of growth that afflicts 21.5% of Indonesian children younger than 5 and would raise the income of farmers. Subianto has pledged to accelerate GDP growth to 8% from 5% now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his inauguration speech in October, Subianto said many children are malnourished. His promise to provide free school lunches and milk to 83 million students at more than 400,000 schools is part of a longer-term strategy to develop the nations human resources to achieve a Golden Indonesia generation by 2045. Too many of our brothers and sisters are below the poverty line, too many of our children go to school without breakfast and do not have clothes for school, Subianto said. Subiantos signature program could cost upward of 450 trillion rupiah ($28 billion) by the end of his term in 2029. He said his team has made the calculations to run such a program, and We are capable. The government's target is to reach an initial 19.5 million schoolchildren and pregnant women in 2025 with a budget of 71 trillion rupiah ($4.3 billion) so as to keep the annual deficit under a legislated ceiling of 3% of GDP, said Dadan Hindayana, the head of the newly formed National Nutrition Agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hindayana said the money would buy an estimated 6.7 million tons of rice, 1.2 million tons of chicken, 500,000 tons of beef, 1 million tons of fish, vegetable and fruit, and 4 million kiloliters of milk. Nearly 2,000 cooperatives will be involved in the free meals program by providing eggs, vegetables, rice, fish, meat, milk and other food, Cooperative Minister Budi Arie Setiadi said. On Monday, a truck carrying food arrived at SD Cilangkap 08, a primary school in the Jakarta satellite city of Depok. The 740 students were provided rice, stir-fried vegetables, tempeh, stir-fried chicken and oranges. We will send a team to each school to facilitate the meal distribution to students every day, Hindayana said, adding that the program will provide one meal per day for each student from early childhood education to senior high school, covering a third of the daily caloric needs for children, with the government providing the meals at no cost to recipients. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the program has drawn criticism from investors and analysts over the scale of its logistics, the burden on state finances and the economy, and its relation to the interests of industrial lobby groups. Nailul Huda, a researcher at the Center of Economic and Law Studies, said Indonesias state finances are not strong enough to support the program and this will lead to additional national debt. The burden on our state budget is too heavy if it is forced to reach 100% of the target recipients, and it will be difficult for Prabowos government to achieve the economic growth target of 8%, Huda said. He warned it could also worsen the external balance of payments for the country, which is already a major importer of rice, wheat, soybeans, beef and dairy products. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reni Suwarso, the director of Institute for Democracy, Security and Strategic Studies, said the decline in the stunting rate in Indonesia was far from the target of a 14% reduction in 2024. According to the 2023 Indonesian Health Survey, the national stunting prevalence was 21.5%, down around 0.8% from the previous year. The United Nations Childrens Fund estimated that one in 12 Indonesian children younger than 5 suffers from low weight while one in five is shorter than normal. Both conditions are caused by malnourishment. Thats so bad and must be solved, Suwarso said. Child malnourishment has severe consequences, threatening the health and long-term development of infants and young children throughout this nation. ___ Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This story corrects that the expected cost of the program is $28 billion instead of $28 million and explains that it is through 2029. ___ Associated Press journalists Edna Tarigan and Andi Jatmiko contributed to this report. CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) A red-tailed hawk was rescued after a Chicopee family found it in their backyard unable to fly. On New Years Day, Massachusetts Environmental Police Officer Cam Connelly was called to a home in Chicopee to help the hawk that appeared in distress. Officer Connelly, with the assistance of Chicopee Police, was able to capture the hawk and brought it to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for care. Hawk found trapped under solar panel rescued in Springfield (Massachusetts Environmental Police) Massachusetts State Police rescue injured owl on highway Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the same day, Officer Connelly traveled to Becket for a barred owl found in a backyard that was having difficulty moving. The officer was able to capture the owl that appeared to have an injured wing. The Environmental Police reports that despite Connellys best efforts, the owl died on the way to the animal hospital. 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 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The new calendar year has only just begun, but the royal family is already thinking about what future school years will look like for kids Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6. The three will unsurprisingly attend a world-renowned school, but maternal ties and sibling relationships have allegedly led to a surprising break from royal tradition. According to multiple reports, the trio will ultimately attend Marlborough College. (Dont let college fool you, though. The boarding school which is nearly $74 thousand per year is for kids ages 13 to 18.) Mom Kate Middleton and her siblings Pippa Middleton and James Middleton both attended the prestigious institution, and they must be [at least somewhat] excited to know the kids are attending their alma mater. This means, though, that the young Wales kids will not follow in the footsteps of Prince William and Prince Harry both of whom attended Eton College. Of course, Princess Charlotte would have been unable to attend the all-boys school, but her brothers could have been like their dad and uncle. More from SheKnows Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Come to think of it, maybe the royal familys educational tradition is actually all about breaking tradition. Prince William was breaking royal tradition when he became the first senior royal to attend Eton. The decision also followed matriarchal lineage, since his mom Princess Dianas brother and father both attended the college. Prince William follows Eton tradition by signing a book before starting at the school, as Prince Charles, Princess Diana and Prince Harry look on, September 6, 1995. But whats happening now with the Wales kids? Insiders say discussions are already underway about where Prince George will live at Marlborough College. Security is a significant factor, and housing George in one of the central in houses near the main quad ensures greater control and safety, one source said. In the past, there were reportedly heated debates over whether the kids would attend Eton or Marlborough, but a source told The Mirror that King Charles III, Prince William, and Kate Middleton decided Marlborough was the best choice since the siblings would be able to attend together. BBC Royal Correspondent Jennie Bond told OK it was a wise decision to keep the children together in school now (at Lambrook School) and going forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It must have been a huge comfort for the three of them to be together at school when life at home was so full of anxiety, she said, referring to their moms cancer diagnosis and treatment in 2024. Prince George, Prince Louis, and Princess Charlotte on Christmas morning 2024 James Middleton has not commented on the supposed decision to send his niece and nephews to Marlborough College, but he was critical of the school in the past. He felt educators focused too much on success, or being the best, or the top. I was never in the [top of my class], the dad of one said. My sisters were, and they did very well and it worked fantastically for them in how they operated. But for me, it wasnt like that, he continued. I was dragging at the bottom. It was a shame, in a way, that some of the things that I found challenging in my life were not picked up then because I think that could have gone on to help me manage myself perhaps not allow me to go where I went to because I would have felt more accepted, not felt like perhaps a failure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We certainly hope Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis never feel like failures, and if those feelings ever do star creeping in, we know they have ultra-supportive parents who can hopefully convince them otherwise. Before you go, check out these precious photos that prove Princess Dianas commitment to motherhood over the monarchy. Best of SheKnows Sign up for SheKnows' Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Maddie Meyer/Getty Images Universities in the United States are undergoing a shift in how they approach contentious global issues, spurred by the ongoing conflict in Gaza and student protests earlier this year. From Harvard to the University of Michigan, higher education is adopting institutional neutrality policies, aiming to remain apolitical in the face of mounting pressure to take stances on divisive matters. Earlier this fall, Columbia Universitys sister college Barnard took a bold step by officially committing to neutrality on global political matters, pledging to refrain from taking an institutional stance. Soon after, Columbia University's interim president Katrina Armstrong hinted at similar intentions for Columbia, framing the move as a response to the vitally important question of whether institutions should involve themselves in public debates. Earlier this year, Columbias campus saw high-profile protests over the conflict in Gaza, which reflected student demands for the university to take a position. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Universities have historically embraced activism, taking strong stances on issues like civil rights, the Vietnam War, and apartheid. Columbia itself divested from companies in apartheid-era South Africa in the 1980s after significant student pressure, signaling its opposition to racial oppression. Similarly, the University of California system, in 2015, divested from private prisons in response to student campaigns that advocated for criminal justice reform. Still, the nonpartisan free speech organization Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) has long been a vocal advocate for institutional neutrality and is a key advocate for apolitical policies. The university is not the critic, its the host of critics, says Laura Belz, director of policy reform at FIRE, referencing the principles set forth in the influential 1967 Kalven Report by the University of Chicago. The report recommended universities refrain from taking positions on social and political issues to protect the integrity of academic freedom. Belz believes that neutrality policies can empower students and faculty to challenge the university. In light of this years protests, however, critics of institutional neutrality say these policies ultimately prioritize a university's reputation, donor relations, and other institutional interests over the rights of students and faculty to express their views on urgent global issues. Some activists who spoke with Teen Vogue refer to this as a Palestine exception to free speech, claiming that neutrality policies are selectively applied to discourage support for Palestinian rights while other political stances are allowed to go unchallenged. These activists also point out that, despite claiming neutrality, many colleges and universities have established partnerships and financial connections that inherently reflect a political stance. Institutions like Columbia, for example, have funds that invest with corporations like Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and Elbit Systems, companies that either directly provide defense technology and equipment or are otherwise involved in the global military-industrial complex. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But divestment is a tricky sell for university administrators. Martha Pollack, president of Cornell University, recently declined to support divestment from companies involved in the war in Gaza, explaining that the universitys endowment serves its mission, not political goals, and that divestment could violate New York laws against penalizing Israel. Activists argue that such policies favor institutional interests and select financial alliances over true neutrality. The university is actually a participant after investing in Israel and we have the global center in Tel Aviv. So it will not be neutral, says Mohsen Mahdawi, a Palestinian student at Columbia who tells Teen Vogue he has lost four cousins and more than 30 extended-family members in Gaza since the war started on October 7, 2023. He perceives the universitys policy as selectively restrictive, arguing it is designed to dampen support for Palestine and appease powerful institutional stakeholders who may not want the university associated with contentious political positions. Momodou Taal, a PhD candidate at Cornell University and suspended student activist potentially facing deportation, also argues that neutrality policies seem only to apply when campus activism challenges mainstream political positions. Its laughable because Cornell isnt neutral, he asserts. Cornell is, by way of its investment, in active participation in the genocide against Palestinians. For students who are directly impacted by global issues, this policy often feels less like an expression of open-mindedness and more like an attempt to stifle their activism, where the university holds itself to a different standard than its students. Taal has felt the sting of what he perceives as faux neutrality at Cornell. Currently suspended for violating the schools code of conduct during a protest, he views neutrality as an attempt by the institution to manage student unrest rather than genuinely support free expression. Even the position of institutional neutrality is not coming from a neutral space, he says. Its responding to pro-Palestinian speech, and its responding in a negative way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scholars have also been forced to self-censor in this environment. Faculty opposition to neutrality policies has grown as professors voice concerns about the impact on both their teaching and research. Joseph Howley, an associate professor of classics at Columbia University who has been vocal about Palestine, warns of the potential chilling effect neutrality policies may have on scholarship, especially for those studying areas where political tensions are high. How would we enforce such a policy? he asks. Someone's going to have to report me. So already we can identify from the get-go that its going to motivate people to surveil and inform on faculty, he explains. Institutional neutrality cant ultimately help but become a regime of censorship. Michael Roth, president of Wesleyan University, has also condemned neutrality, describing it as a way for administrators seeking to avoid controversy to get off the hook. Roth argues that the role of academic institutions includes speaking out on pressing issues, even if doing so may alienate some stakeholders. I find it pathetic, actually, that university leaders wont stand up for what they do believe in, he says. They seem to believe that their institutional position prevents them from speaking, and I believe their institutional position requires them to speak out so that students and faculty and staff know what the president thinks. As universities increasingly lean toward neutrality, critics worry about the potential long-term harm to campus communities. Institutions, they argue, by distancing themselves from political discourse, risk alienating students and faculty who feel their concerns are being disregarded. I think Columbia, by taking this stance now, is betraying the history of this university that makes it a great university, Mahdawi said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As critics and supporters of institutional neutrality debate whether or not its an aspirational concept, they also wonder whether its actually achievable. Institutions of higher education are inevitably political actors," says Jameel Jaffer, executive director of the Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia. "They cant be neutral in their investment [or] resource allocation decisions. When a university decides to open up a climate school or open up a campus in the United Arab Emirates, those arent and cant be neutral decisions, he continues. They have the obligation to explain [these decisions], and explaining them requires making statements and wading into the political fray. Because of this, Jaffer says, attempts at neutrality will likely fuel long-term challenges for institutions of higher education. Universities have to participate in debates about affirmative action and immigration policy, for example, because those debates have profound implications for their ability to fulfill their mission, he says. Institutions shouldnt be neutral on issues that relate to their core mission. Stay up-to-date with the politics team. Sign up for the Teen Vogue Take. Originally Appeared on Teen Vogue Check out more Teen Vogue education coverage: On Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021, then-president Donald Trump peppered an otherwise incendiary speech at a rally with a singular ask that his supporters "peacefully" march to the U.S. Capitol but also be prepared to "fight like hell." "We fight like hell," Trump had said. "And if you don't fight like hell, you're not going to have a country anymore." Critics insist that particular passage, in addition to the speech's combustible and inciteful words, spurred his supporters to march to the U.S Capitol, violently occupy the building, create a security risk and suspend Electoral College deliberations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The episode ended tragically, with five people including a police officer, losing their lives. U.S. Rep. Ted Deutch, D-Boca Raton, Florida, tweeted: "This is a violent insurrection. An attempted coup by Trump supporters at his encouragement. Theyre attacking the building that represents our democracy and threatening those who work in it. History will remember this dark day as a seditious attack by Americans against America." Before Trump spoke, his attorney, Rudy Giuliani called for "trial by combat." And the president's son, Donald Trump Jr., warned those who are a "zero not a hero" that "we are coming for you." Jan. 6, 2021, marks a dark day in American history. Days later, Donald Trump was impeached by the House on Jan. 13, 2021, for incitement of insurrection for provoking the riots. His Twitter account, the social media platform now known as X and owned by Trump supporter Elon Musk, was suspended (and later resurrected by Musk). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since then, January 6 has been known as Insurrection Day. What did Trump say on Jan. 6, 2021, before Trump supporters stormed US Capitol? But what did Trump say? Here is the passage from his speech that directed his followers to head to Capitol Hill. "And after this, we're going to walk down there, and I'll be there with you, we're going to walk down to the Capitol and we are going to cheer on our brave senators and congressmen and women," Trump told the crowd. "And we're probably not going to be cheering so much for some of them. Because you'll never take back our country with weakness. You have to show strength and you have to be strong." The pledge was part of a speech that was bombastic and inflammatory even by Trumpian standards. The president told the crowd that the election had been "rigged" by "radical democrats" and the "fake news media." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And then he added a measure of defiance mixed with a call to action. "We will never give up. We will never concede. It doesn't happen. You don't concede when there's theft involved," Trump said. "Our country has had enough. We're not going to take it anymore." He further said: "You're the real people. You're the people that built this nation. You're not the people that tore down this nation." The former president did also say: "I know that everyone here will soon be marching over to the Capitol building to peacefully and patriotically make your voices heard." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And he added in a bit of irony: "Now it is up to Congress to confront this egregious assault on our democracy." What did Trump tweet on Jan. 6, 2021, Insurrection Day at US Capitol? At 2:38 p.m. Jan. 6, 2021, Trump sent this tweet: "Please support our Capitol Police and Law Enforcement. They are truly on the side of our Country. Stay peaceful!" Please support our Capitol Police and Law Enforcement. They are truly on the side of our Country. Stay peaceful! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2021 At 3:13 p.m. Jan. 6, 2021, Trump sent another tweet: "I am asking for everyone at the U.S. Capitol to remain peaceful. No violence! Remember, WE are the Party of Law & Order respect the Law and our great men and women in Blue. Thank you!" I am asking for everyone at the U.S. Capitol to remain peaceful. No violence! Remember, WE are the Party of Law & Order respect the Law and our great men and women in Blue. Thank you! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2021 But he later seemingly justified the violence, occupation and besieging of the Capitol with this social media missive: "These are the things and events that happen when a sacred landslide election victory is so unceremoniously & viciously stripped away from great patriots who have been badly & unfairly treated for so long. Go home with love & in peace. Remember this day forever!" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Twitter labeled the tweet as follows: "This claim of election fraud is disputed, and this Tweet cant be replied to, Retweeted, or liked due to a risk of violence." Antonio Fins is a politics and business editor at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at afins@pbpost.com. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Trump, Jan. 6 insurrection at Capitol: 'Remain peaceful, no violence' DES MOINES, Iowa The Iowa Attorney General and Department of Public Safety released a statement warning about a wave of Grandparent scams that is affecting Iowans. Grandparent scams are not new and have been a problem since at least 2008. However, the advancements in technology make it more difficult to detect and avoid these scams. During a Grandparent scam the scammer will call the victim pretending to be a grandchild and claim there has been some kind of incident, often an accident, hospitalization, or imprisonment. They will then ask the Grandparent to send money to help them, some even sending an alleged courier to collect the money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advancements in technology have allowed these scammers to gain access to more detailed and private information about their victims and their families through social media. Some will work together with one person posing as the victim who needs help and another posing as a person of authority who can back up the claim, like a doctor or police officer. Iowas Third District Congressman discusses Speaker vote, priorities for 2nd term Scamming someone out of money is evil enough, said Attorney General Bird. But manipulating someones love for their grandchild shows just how low scammers will go to steal from you This scam is one reason why you should never share personal information, wire money, provide money cards, or bank account information over the phone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Con artists who commit Grandparent scams often transfer the money abroad, making it nearly impossible to trace the money. In todays digital age, it is more important than ever to double-check when someone calls asking for money and to never send it over the phone. If you or a loved one is suspicious of a grandparent scam, please call law enforcement, said Bird. Rita Hart elected to second term as Chair of IDP The following tips were released by the Department of Public Safety and Attorney General Bird. End the call and verify the information. Contact family members on verified numbers to check out the story and verify the information, even if you are told to keep the call a secret. Verify that the person on the phone is a loved one by asking them questions only they would know. Dont act quickly or secretly, take your time and verify all information before acting in fear. Report the incident to authorities so that they can warn others in the community, as these scams often target community members. File a complaint with authorities, the Federal Trade Commission, and the Iowa Attorney Generals Office. If they send someone to your home, dont answer the door and do not give them money. If you are suspicious of a grandparent scam contact your local law enforcement or the Iowa Attorney Generals Office at 1-888-777-4590. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. JEFFERSON, Iowa A Greene County father charged in the death of his infant son is scheduled to be arraigned this week. Nolan Wilson Nolan Wilson is charged with child endangerment resulting in death and first-degree murder. He is also facing domestic abuse charges for allegedly strangling his wife. At least 3 horses dead in barn fire on Des Moines east side According to court documents, deputies were called to a home in Paton on September 3rd, 2024, where Wilson told officers his two-month-old son had stopped breathing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An autopsy determined the babys cause of death was a head injury from blunt-force trauma, prompting an investigation. Court documents claim Wilson intentionally caused the injuries to his son. Wilson is scheduled to be arraigned Tuesday morning at the Greene County Courthouse. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 6An Iowa man was injured Sunday morning after a vehicle crash on Interstate 35 in Freeborn County two miles north of the Iowa border. Garret Dennis Hoeve Piechowski, 25, of Manly was reportedly taken to St. Marys Hospital in Rochester for injuries deemed not life-threatening, according to the Minnesota State Patrol. The crash report stated Piechowski was driving a 2005 Toyota Camry south on I-35 at 8:55 a.m. when he lost control of the vehicle, went off the road and into the trees near mile marker 2. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The road was dry at the time of the crash, and alcohol was not a factor. Piechowski was listed as not wearing his seat belt. The Freeborn County Sheriff's Office, Mayo Clinic Ambulance, and Glenville Fire and Rescue assisted at the scene. DES MOINES, Iowa Iowas Third Congressional Districts Congressman Zach Nunn is back in Washington, D.C. preparing for a new administration. Nunn was sworn in for his second term on Friday, but his first time being sworn in two years ago was delayed by the longest vote for Speaker of the House since 1859. Speaker Kevin McCarthy won in 15 rounds of voting. My first days of Congress were spent three days in a row, 15 votes. I think we got done at 2 a.m. on Sunday morning. My family didnt even get to see me sworn in, said Congressman Nunn (R) IA-03. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now Speaker of the House Mike Johnson was sworn in in just one round of voting, something Nunn said this demonstrates a unified House Republican front. Rita Hart elected to second term as Chair of IDP I think this is a very important opening chapter for where the country is headed. We have a strong unified government who elected speaker Johnson, said Congressman Nunn (R) IA-03. But Ill say this is bigger than Speaker Johnson. Its about an agenda that is prioritizing border security, stopping fentanyl and human trafficking. Its about making sure that we extend crucial tax cuts that weve seen actually grow our economy and its about reining in government spending and government overreach. The congressman said that House Republicans met with Senate Republican leaders to discuss a reconciliation bill President Elect Donald Trump has been asking for. That bill would encompass his top campaign issues: border security, tax extensions of Trumps 2017 bill, and energy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nunn looked back at his first term with success in legislation put forward, he highlighted expanding leave policies for Iowa National Guardsman, and an extension of a farm bill. Nunn introduced an amendment on Friday, his first piece of policy this session, that asks for a balanced budget. It helps rein in government spending and treating it a lot more like a family does, only spend the amount of money you have coming in, not putting it on the nations credit card, said Nunn. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Iran executed a record 1,000 people in 2024, almost 70 per cent of them after its new reformist president took office. The killings, the most in Iran in 30 years, took place across 86 prisons and those executed included 34 women and seven juveniles. Some 695 of them came after Masoud Pezeshkian, a wild card candidate who was thought to be more progressive, took over in August. The total is a significant increase on the 853 recorded in 2023, but the true figure may be even higher, because of Irans secretive judicial system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The identities of many executed prisoners often remain unrecorded, meaning some people simply disappear following their arrest. There was a notable drop in executions during Februarys parliamentary elections and Junes presidential elections, when there were eight and 22 respectively, compared to a high of 170 in October. Masoud Pezeshkian greets Vladimir Putin at the BRICS summit in Russia in October - Maxim Shemetov/Pool Photo via AP In August, as the executions ramped up following the start of Mr Pezeshkians first term, 87 executions were reported, including 29 in one day. On Oct 9, Mr Pezeshkian defended the countrys executions, stating: Those who talk about human rights ask why we execute murderers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Research collated by teams inside and outside Iran by the opposition National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) found that half of the prisoners were hanged in eight prisons: 165 in Qezelhessar, 97 in Shiraz, 61 in Isfahan, 59 in Tabriz, 44 in Central Karaj, 38 in Qazvin, 33 in Mashhad, and 29 in Birjand. Among the executed in 2024 were 119 Baluch citizens. The nomadic Baluchis, who make up five per cent of the population, represented 20 per cent of last years executions. Protesters rallied in London in December to highlight Irans brutal detention and execution of political prisoners - imageplotter/Alamy Live News In 2023, Javid Rehman, the UN Special Rapporteur on Iran, called the levels of killings, torture, and brutality against the mostly Sunni Baluch minority in Iran shocking. He said that more than half the total number of people that were killed since the start of the Woman, Life, Freedom protests in 2022 were from the Baluchi and Kurdish-populated provinces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Children from Irans Baluch and Kurdish provinces constituted at least 63 per cent of the recorded victims of the protest, Mr Rehman said. In last years executions, the average age of 491 victims whose details were documented was 36, while more than half the victims (502) were executed on drug-related charges. This is despite the regimes Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its mafia networks controlling major drug trafficking operations worth billions globally. The Islamic Republic has long made extensive use of the death penalty and brutal corporal punishment such as amputating fingers and eye gouging. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its use escalated in the wake of the 2022 uprising, which followed the death of Kurdish-Iranian Mahsa Amini in morality police custody. She had been held for failing to wear a hijab correctly. A demonstrator displays placards of some of the victims of the Islamic Republics notorious Revolutionary Guard at the protest in London in December - imageplotter/Alamy Live News Maryam Rajavi, the president-elect of the NCRI said: The brutal wave of executions in 2024, especially in the autumn, is [Supreme Leader Ali] Khameneis desperate attempt to prevent the uprising of an angry populace who will settle for nothing less than the regimes complete overthrow. These medieval crimes, however, double the resolve of Irans youth to topple the religious dictatorship. Silence and inaction in the face of such savage executions not only trample on recognised human rights principles but also embolden the regime to continue its executions, terrorism, war-mongering and pursuit of nuclear weapons. Nahid Naghshbandi, Amnesty Internationals Iran researcher, said: The Iranian authorities are carrying out an egregious execution spree while trumpeting their recent presidential elections as evidence of genuine change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For those campaign slogans to be meaningful, Irans new president should urgently intervene to overturn existing death sentences, place a moratorium on capital punishment, and take steps to reform the judiciary. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. VERMILLION COUNTY, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) Indiana State Police is investigating a fatal shooting that occurred Sunday evening near Perrysville. According to Sgt. Matt Ames, detectives from the Indiana State Police Putnamville Post were requested by Vermillion County Sheriff Mike Holcamp to investigate a shooting that occurred on January 5, 2025. It happened in the 8000 block of Meridian Road. The shooting left one male dead and one female with life-threatening injuries. Ames stated that just after 5:00 p.m., on Sunday, Vermillion County Deputies responded to a 911 call of a reported shooting in Perrysville. Upon arrival, deputies attempted to make contact with any individuals in the residence where the shooting occurred but received no response. When officers cleared and checked the residence, they discovered a deceased man and a woman with a life-threatening gunshot wound. Deputies immediately began life-saving first-aid on the female. She was later transported to a local hospital in Illinois for immediate medical care, where she currently is in critical condition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators believe the shooting was a result of a domestic disturbance. Investigators have identified the deceased as 30-year-old Garrett Reynolds and the female victim as 27-year-old Tylan Leonard, both of Perrysville. An autopsy has been scheduled for January 6, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. The investigation is ongoing and is being conducted by Indiana State Police Detective Colton Maynor and Sergeant Michael Featherling, with the assistance of CSI Sergeant Michael Organ of the Putnamville State Police Post. The Vermillion County Sheriffs Department and the Vermillion County Coroners Office are assisting in the investigation. Upon completion of the investigation, Indiana State Police detectives will submit a full report of the incident to the Vermillion County Prosecutors Office. This is a developing story, WTWO will update it as more information becomes available. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Three Israelis were killed and at least eight wounded Monday in the northeastern part of the West Bank when two gunmen opened fire on a bus and two cars, military authorities said. Israel Defense Forces dispatched a significant troop contingent and a helicopter to hunt for the gunmen in and around the Palestinian village of al-Funduq, where the attack took place on the busy Route 55 used by thousands of Palestinian and Israeli motorists every day. The military said it set up roadblocks in the area and sealed off the city of Nablus and several villages nearby. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel's national emergency service, Magen David Adom, said in a social media post that two women in their 60s in one of the cars were pronounced dead at the scene and that the third deceased was a man in his 40s in the second car. The 63-year-old driver of the bus and at least seven passengers were injured. The driver was being treated in the hospital in serious condition, two women were in moderate condition and five others sustained minor injuries, MDA said. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, while extending his sympathy to the families of those killed and injured, vowed to hunt down all those responsible and make them pay. "We will find the abhorrent murderers and settle accounts with them and with all those who aided them. No one will get away," he wrote in a post on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "My wife and I send heartfelt condolences to the families of the three people who were murdered in the terrible attack this morning, and wishes for a full recovery to those who were wounded." National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir calls for an end to cooperation with the Palestinian Authority following this morning's terror shooting in Al Funduk in the northern West Bank in which three people were killed. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack but it was praised by Hamas which called it a "heroic response to the ongoing crimes" carried out by Israel in Gaza. Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir threatened swift retribution against the West Bank and called for Israel's government to cut off all cooperation with the Palestinian Authority and prioritize settlers' security over Palestinians' freedom of movement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Whoever strives for an end to the war in Gaza will receive a war in Judea and Samaria," he wrote in a post on X. Judea and Samaria is the name used in the bible for the territory that now forms the West Bank. Highway bypass construction to take Route 55, which connects Tel Aviv to Nablus via several West Bank Israeli settlements and Palestinian towns, around al-Funduq was due to begin in February. Italy is reportedly close to sealing a 1.5 billion (1.25 billion) deal with Elon Musks SpaceX that would provide the countrys government with secure telecommunications. Giorgia Melonis government is in advanced talks with the billionaire tech entrepreneur and, according to Bloomberg news, a deal has already been approved by Italys ministry and intelligence services. Ms Meloni has built a close relationship with the Tesla billionaire, describing him last week as a genius who had been wrongly presented as a monster because of his support for Donald Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, the Italian prime minister sought to play down speculation about an imminent deal, which has reportedly been under discussion since mid-2023. The prime ministers office denies that any contracts have been signed or any agreements made between the Italian government and the company SpaceX for the use of the Starlink satellite communications system, Ms Melonis office said in a statement on Monday. There was no denial of negotiations taking place. Ms Meloni has a close relationship with Mr Trump, too, having visited the president-elects at his residence at Mar-a-Lago on the weekend - FILIPPO ATTILI/Shutterstock Negotiations on the telecoms deal reportedly progressed after Ms Meloni paid a surprise visit to Mr Trump in Florida on Saturday, even though Mr Musk did not attend their meeting at the presidents residence at Mar-a-Lago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Melonis office said it was simply ridiculous to suggest the deal was discussed during the prime ministers meeting with Mr Trump. Mr Musk suggested a deal was close, posting on X on Monday: Ready to provide Italy with the most secure and advanced connectivity! Under the proposed deal, SpaceX would supply Italy with a full range of encryption for telephone and internet services used by the government. It would include communications services for Italys military in the Mediterranean and satellite services for use in emergencies such as terrorist attacks or natural disasters. The reported deal comes at a time when Mr Musk engages in a war of words with centre-Left leaders across Europe. The Tesla businessman offered his support for Donald Trump throughout the 2024 US election - Brandon Bell/Getty Images On Monday he called Sir Keir Starmer utterly despicable after the Prime Minister accused him of spreading lies over historical sexual abuse by grooming gangs in northern England. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also expressed support for Alternative for Germany (AfD) ahead of the countrys elections next month and labelled Olaf Scholz a fool. Leaders of Italys centre-Left Democratic Party, the countrys main opposition, are likely to provoke the ire of Mr Musk after raising concerns about the reported deal. We are facing disturbing news and it is necessary for the government to come to parliament as soon as possible to clarify the choices being made regarding such sensitive issues, leaders of the party said in a joint statement on Monday. The party leaders said communications encryption services and military applications were particularly sensitive for the countrys national security and required more transparency. They also noted the services could be provided by Italian and European companies. A SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket with Psyche spacecraft lifted off in Florida as part of a NASA mission in 2023 - CRISTOBAL HERRERA-ULASHKEVICH/Shutterstock Italy has one of the worlds most competitive markets for phone carriers, an industry which has faced recent upheaval. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2023, Telecom Italia SpA, the countrys former telephone monopoly, sold its landline network to KKR & Co., an American private equity firm, in a 22 billion (18.25 billion) deal. The grid sale was the first of its kind for a European phone company and was backed by the Meloni government. Swisscom, the major telecommunications provider in Switzerland, has just acquired Vodafone Italia for 8 billion (6.6 billion) after receiving final regulatory approval from Italian authorities. In 2024, Mr Musks SpaceX added more than 20 nations, from Ghana to Argentina, to its Starlink satellite internet service. It now serves more than four million people in over 100 countries and territories. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Significantly fewer irregular migrants arrived in Italy via the Mediterranean Sea last year than in previous years, the Interior Ministry in Rome reported on Monday. It counted 66,317 new arrivals in 2024, compared to over 157,000 in 2023 and over 105,000 in 2022. Italy's right-wing government attributes this to tougher action against irregular migration. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni came to power two years ago with the promise to stem the arrival of refugees to the country, and her government has taken a hard-line approach to migration since then. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One reason for the decline is likely to be new EU agreements with countries such as Tunisia, which are intended to deter migrants from travelling to EU countries. Similar agreements with other North African countries are in the pipeline. However, large numbers of people continue to perish during the dangerous sea crossing to Europe. More than 2,200 refugees drowned or were reported missing in the Mediterranean last year, the United Nations reported, although it is feared that the actual figures are higher. According to Italy's Interior Ministry, most asylum seekers who arrived in Italy in 2024 came from Bangladesh, Syria, Tunisia and Egypt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is currently a dispute in Italy as to whether these are safe countries of origin. The government's plan to have asylum applications decided in camps in the non-EU state of Albania has stalled over disagreements about which countries can be considered safe. The European Court of Justice is expected to make a landmark decision on this in mid-February. By Valentina Za and Elvira Pollina MILAN (Reuters) -Elon Musk said on Monday he was ready to provide Italy with secure communication services after Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni denied that the issue had come up during a weekend visit to the United States.Meloni has developed a strong relationship with Musk, a close ally of incoming U.S. President Donald Trump, and Rome is evaluating potential supply accords with the tech billionaire's Starlink business, part of his SpaceX company. However, Meloni's office denied any agreement had been reached on the supply of new services and dismissed attempts to link the issue to her surprise visit to meet Trump at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida on Saturday night. "The prime minister's office categorically denies, considering it ridiculous, that SpaceX was a topic during the meeting with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump," Meloni's office said in a note. "Contacts with SpaceX are part of regular discussions that state departments have with companies, in this instance those that provide protected connections such as data encryption," it added. Bloomberg News reported on Sunday that Italy's discussions with SpaceX, "which had stalled until recently, appeared to move forward" after Meloni's meeting with Trump. Musk was happy to promote his services. He said in a post on X that he was "ready to provide Italy the most secure and advanced connectivity!". ITALIAN EXPANSION? Musk's aerospace business SpaceX owns Starlink, a telecommunications provider that relies on a network of low Earth orbit satellites. Starlink has been offering its services in Italy since 2021, but its business in the euro zone's third-largest economy is modest, with a customer base of around 50,000. Italy is considering using Starlink services to boost Internet penetration in remote areas in response to slow progress in public-funded fibre rollout programmes. Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini urged the government to accelerate efforts to do a deal with Musk "to guarantee connectivity and modernise all of Italy." "A potential accord would not be a danger but an opportunity," the League party leader said, adding the government had a duty to improve services for its people. In October, the foreign ministry said Italy was also evaluating using Starlink systems to enhance communications for Italian diplomats and defence officials operating in risky areas across the Mediterranean. Representatives of Italy's main opposition party called on the government on Monday to provide more details in parliament over any potential Starlink defence contract, maintaining that saying none had yet been signed was not enough. Jack Schlossberg has been making a name for himself in political journalism for the past year but fans are dying to know more about her personal life after he posted a video hinted he recently broke up with a girlfriend, and an odd rant about Justin Baldoni amid It Ends With Us legal drama. Born on Jan. 19, 1993 to parents Caroline Kennedy and Edwin Schlossberg, he was named John Bouvier Jack Kennedy Schlossberg at birth, a name that features nods to both his maternal grandparents, Jackie Bouvier Kennedy and John F. Kennedy, as well as his late-uncle, John F. Kennedy Jr. He is the couples youngest child and a little brother to sisters Tatiana Schlossberg and Rose Schlossberg, all of whom are often noted for their resemblance to their famous grandparents. Schlossberg is a Yale University and Harvard Law School graduate who passed the bar in 2023. After dabbling in political commentary over the years, and generating a large following with his comedic and political TikTok videos, Schlossberg landed his biggest job to date in July 2024 when he was named a political correspondent for Vogue. The role, which began amid the 2024 presidential election cycle builds on Schlossbergs already-established influence over Gen Z voters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jack emerged as a staff favorite early on in this election cycle with his irreverent but intelligent takes on the political landscape, editor Chloe Malle said in a statement via The New York Times. We all know the stakes of this election and it is critical to Vogue that we do all we can to get our audience motivated to vote. I am inspired by my familys legacy of public service, Schlossberg told Vogue that month. I take that very seriously, and I want to contribute in my own way. I have big dreams, but I also know that Im trying to make a positive impact today. Outside of his political commentary, Schlossberg is also an avid paddle-boarder, dog dad and told Vogue he started taking ballet classes in 2024. Below, here are all the details about Jack Schlossberg: More from SheKnows Best of SheKnows Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sign up for SheKnows' Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. He Is a Yale & Harvard Graduate, & a Lawyer He Is a Yale & Harvard Graduate, & a Lawyer After graduating from Yale in 2015, Schlossberg enrolled in Harvard Law School in 2017 and Harvard Business School in 2018. On February 2022, he graduated from both earning a Juris Doctor and a Master of Business Administration, People reported. When asked about how his Harvard business and law degrees have shaped his political views, Schlossberg told Vogue: It made me much more aware of every point of view and more open to other ways of thinking. I still have the same values I did when I got there, but my way of thinking is completely different. In April 2023, Schlossberg revealed that he passed the New York State Bar. TFW passed the bar Jake Cyborg, Esq! he wrote on Instagram, alongside a photo of him paddleboarding in New York City. Hes Been Working for Vogue Since 2024 Hes Been Working for Vogue Since 2024 Schlossberg began writing for Vogue ahead of the 2024 presidential election, covering topics from the Biden v. Trump debate to Supreme Court rulings. On July 18, he launched his Jack Reacts series on both Vogue.com and Vogues TikTok, which features the same quippy personality supporters will recognize from Schlossbergs personal social media accounts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If youre going to ask people to think about something serious, you need to make it entertaining or fun, Schlossberg told Vogue of his approach to political commentary. Thats what all the great leaders do. You cant just hammer people with how bad stuff is. Youve got to bring some positivity and good energy to the things you think are important. Thats the only strategy I have. Vogue isnt Schlossbergs first writing gig. According to E! Online, he used to write for the Yale Daily News and The Yale Herald while he was an undergraduate. In addition to the campus publications, Schlossberg has also written for Politico, The Washington Post and The New York Times. Hes Also Known for His TikTok Videos Hes Also Known for His TikTok Videos Schlossberg has cultivated something of a cult following among Gen Z thanks to his dancing videos on TikTok, his posts of his paddleboarding adventures and tongue-in-cheek singing videos that are scattered among his more political content. Im just having a good time. Im a fun, wacky guy. Im a silly goosea silly goose whos trying, just trying, to get the truth out there, he told Vogue. Does Jack Schlossberg Have a Girlfriend? Does Jack Schlossberg Have a Girlfriend? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Dec. 1, Schlossberg hinted that he recently went through a breakup in a TikTok video saying, Heartbreak sucks. Getting broken up with sucks. When asked about his relationship status in July, Schlossberg told Vogue: no comment. In August, Stylecaster reported that he has been seen on celebrity dating app Raya so is believed to be single. Stylecaster notes that his last reported relationship was in 2022 with poet and influencer Orion Carloto. He Previously Lived in Japan He Previously Lived in Japan Schlossberg, who primarily grew up in New York City, studied history with a concentration on Japanese history at Yale. After graduation, he moved to Japan in 2016, where his mother served at as the US Ambassador to Japan between 2013 and 2017. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There, Schlossberg worked as a staff assistant in the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs, which is a part of the U.S. Department of State, and at Suntory Holdings Limited, a Japanese brewing company. I learned a lot about Japan. But the most important thing I learned was about my own country, Jack said in his speech at the JFK Profile In Courage Awards in 2017, per Hollywood Life. It was something I had been told all my life but never fully grasped. I saw how people around the world see America: a beacon of opportunity, stability and strength in a world of uncertainty. Americas historic role has been just that. America, as President Kennedy once described it has always been a lantern in the dark for those who love freedom but are persecuted, in misery, or in need.' He Has a Strong Interest in Politics He Has a Strong Interest in Politics Needless to say, Schlossbergs family introduced him to politics at a young age. He told Vogue that his first memory of politics was in 2007 when his great uncle Senator Ted Kennedy asked him his thoughts on Democratic Candidate Barack Obama, who his mom and great-uncle endorsed in his successful presidential election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I felt so involved, so heard, so excited about politics, and felt that anything could happen and I could make a difference, Schlossberg said. He also told Vogue that his grandfather, JFK, is his hero, adding: The first thing I ever got really nerdy about was him, his speeches, and his administration. Its a blueprint for how progressivism can work in America and how America can lead the world in a positive, optimistic, science-driven way. In 2009 and 2010 he worked as a Senate page then-Senator John Kerry, before working as his intern in 2011. Schlossberg obviously made an impact and even got a shoutout from Kerry in a commencement address at his 2011 graduation from Collegiate high school in NYC. A sense of humor is not genetic, but apparently in the Kennedy family, it can be inherited, Kerry said. In President Kennedys grandson, Jack Schlossberg, this quality seems to abide. Schlossberg Is Openly Critical of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Schlossberg Is Openly Critical of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. In July 2023, Schlossberg criticized his mothers cousin Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in a video posted to his Instagram account. In the video, Schlossberg claimed RFK Jr. was trading in on Camelot, celebrity, conspiracy theories and conflict for personal gain and fame. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive listened to him. I know him, he continued. I have no idea why anyone thinks he should be president. What I do know is his candidacy is an embarrassment. In May 2024, Schlossberg escalated the feud with another series of Instagram videos in which he played characters with varied criticisms of RFK Jr., calling him a prick, accusing him of being a hero of Russia and criticizing his plans to do away with the Federal Reserve, per The New York Times. 2313D02 KH030 2313D02 KH030 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a really odd turn of events, Schlossberg went on a rant on X, the app formerly known as Twitter, talking about the legal trouble between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively. He first tweeted, I agreed to take on JUSTIN BALDONI as a client. Why ? FAIRNESS. EVERYONE is entitled to a FAIR TRIAL and ZEALOUS DEFENSE. Justin has NOTHING to hide, Justice will be his revenge. After BOSTON MASSACRE, John Adams represented the British at trial. Same s**t, different day. A day later, he added, My personal feelings about Justin Baldoni are irrelevant. Justin is my client, Im his lawyer. even the most heinous individuals have the right to counsel for their defense. I am not a hero. Im just doing my job. So, is he a part of Baldonis legal team? No, not at all, actually. Baldonis attorney, Bryan Freedman, told DailyMail that Schlossberg isnt a part of Baldonis team, nor has he even spoken to anyone on the team. Schlossberg has yet to comment on this string of tweets, and fans are confused, to say the least. JACKSON COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) A home has been deemed a complete loss after a fire broke out on Sunday evening. Hollywood Fire & Rescue Chief Patrick Allen said that firefighters battled a fully engulfed house fire along County Road 562 in Fackler located in Jackson County just after 5 p.m. Allen said that 6 departments assisted in battling the fire. Allen told News 19 that close to 40,000 gallons of water, along with tankers from across the county were used to battle the fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said that everyone inside the home made it out safely without any injuries. However, some individuals on the scene were checked by EMS for smoke inhalation. The home has been deemed a complete loss. According to officials, units cleared the scene around 10:15 p.m. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The battle of Jan. 6, 2021 was physical, a hand-to-hand fight on Capitol turf to stave off an insurrection aimed at keeping a defeated Donald Trump in power. The battle of Jan. 6, 2025 is psychological, a struggle by Democrats, prosecutors and victims of the violence to prevent a victorious Trump from erasing the harrowing reality of that day. That clash over how America will remember the Jan. 6 attack raged Monday even as the actual proceedings at the Capitol in which Vice President Kamala Harris presided over a drama-free certification of Trumps election seemed an afterthought. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I still believe Donald Trump was the main instigator of what happened on Jan. 6 four years ago. I think over time, history will record that exactly the way it is, Rep. Bennie Thompson, former chair of the Jan. 6 committee, told POLITICO. I think that effort to minimize what occurred and the fact that somehow what people saw with their own eyes really didn't happen, history will record differently. President Joe Biden echoed that message in a Washington Post op-ed Sunday, writing: We cannot allow the truth to be lost. Trump, by contrast, has spent four years trying to recast the violence of Jan. 6 as a blip in an otherwise peaceful protest of the 2020 election results, followed by a relentless political persecution of the MAGA loyalists who stormed the Capitol in his name. He has at times amplified false claims that left-wing protesters instigated the riot, that government agents had a hand in stoking the attack or that Democrats allowed the violence to spiral out of control in order to entrap Trump supporters. Now, as he prepares to return to office, Trump is readying pardons and commutations for many of the people prosecuted for joining the Jan. 6 mob. He has called those people political prisoners, and granting them clemency will further entrench his revisionist version of the attack, which left 140 police officers wounded, several Trump supporters dead and for a time both parties united in condemnation of Trump and his role in stoking the lies that fueled the mob. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Newly empowered congressional Republicans have readily embraced Trumps alternate history, vowing to turn their investigative energy toward the prosecutors and Democratic lawmakers (and one Republican: Liz Cheney) who investigated Trumps effort to subvert the 2020 election. Theyve homed in on failures of security and intelligence that enabled the pro-Trump mob to overrun police barricades and occupy the Capitol for several hours, while the Pentagon struggled to mobilize the National Guard. And Republicans who once called for aggressive prosecutions of those who breached the Capitol have either gone silent or joined Trump in attacking the ensuing Justice Department investigation as politically motivated. They have largely stayed silent amid Trumps vow to pardon many of those convicted for their role in the attack. The American people must never be allowed to forget what happened on Jan. 6, 2021, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said in a statement. Federal judges who have presided over the criminal cases stemming from the riot have spent the two months since Trumps electoral victory sounding the alarm about the torrent of misinformation about the attack and the signal that blanket clemency would send. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No matter what ultimately becomes of the Capital Riots cases already concluded and still pending, the true story of what happened on January 6, 2021 will never change, U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth, a Ronald Reagan appointee, wrote in a recent sentencing decision. Forgetting the visceral violence of that day and the months-long subversion campaign by Trump that led up to it once seemed impossible. Searing images of rioters bludgeoning cops, guns drawn on the House floor, members cowering in House galleries and then-Vice President Mike Pence fleeing for safety were part of the daily discourse in Washington. Criminal cases against the 1,583 members of the mob have aired new details about the realtime horrors faced by lawmakers and police most of them captured on video that has been released publicly. There was the hours-long battle in the Capitols lower-west terrace tunnel the same tunnel Trump will emerge from to take the oath of office in two weeks in which police officers held off hundreds of rioters during the most violent part of the attack. There was the moment a Proud Boy from New York smashed a Senate-wing window with a stolen police riot shield. There was the breach of the Senate chamber, with rioters occupying the dais where Pence had just stood and leaving a menacing note. There was the ransacking of then-Speaker Nancy Pelosis office, with rioters smashing mirrors, purloining a laptop, propping feet on her desk. But over time, as Republicans sidled ever closer to Trump and Trump fought back against his pursuers in the Justice Department and Congress the story has become muddier. Senate Leader Mitch McConnell, who once denounced Trump for a disgraceful dereliction of duty on Jan. 6 and suggested he could face criminal prosecution, endorsed him for reelection last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And following Trumps win, House Republicans have signaled that they intend to mount an effort to investigate and punish the people who investigated Trump over his role in the attack. Speaker Mike Johnson vowed a fully funded investigation of the Jan. 6 committee, lashing out after Biden awarded the committees leaders Citizens Medals. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene said she has urged Trump and his team to blanket pardon every person charged for their involvement in the riot at the Capitol, even if they assaulted police, because of what she argues is disparate treatment for left-wing protesters who participated in violence across the country after the death of George Floyd in 2020. Im thankful that the Capitol Police defended the Capitol here on January 6 but we also deserve more answers, Greene said. Sign up for The Decision, a newsletter featuring coverage of the 2024 race and what comes next. Try to remember for a moment how you felt on January 6, 2021. Recall the makeshift gallows erected on the Capitol grounds, the tear gas, and the sound of the riot shields colliding with hurled flagpoles. If you rewatch the video footage, you might remember the man in the Camp Auschwitz sweatshirt idling among the intruders, or the image of the Confederate flag flying in the Capitol Rotunda. The events of that day are so documented, so memed, so firmly enmeshed in our recent political history that accessing the shock and rage so many felt while the footage streamed in can be difficult. But all of it happened: men and women smashing windows, charging Capitol police, climbing the marbled edifice of one of Americas most recognizable national monuments in an attempt to overturn the results of the 2020 election. It is also hard to remember thatfor at least a momentit seemed that reason might prevail, that those in power would reach a consensus against Donald Trump, whose baseless claims of voter fraud incited the attack. Senator Lindsey Graham, a longtime Trump ally, was unequivocal as he voted to certify President Joe Bidens victory that night: All I can say is count me out. Enough is enough. The New York Post, usually a pro-Trump paper, described the mob as rightists who went berserk in Washington. Tech platforms such as Facebook and Twitter, which had generally allowed Trump to post whatever he wanted throughout his presidency, temporarily suspended his accounts from their service. We believe the risks of allowing the President to continue to use our service during this period are simply too great, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg wrote then. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet the alignment would not last. On January 7, The Atlantics David A. Graham offered a warning that proved prescient: Remember what yesterdays attempted coup at the U.S. Capitol was like, he wrote. Very soon, someone might try to convince you that it was different. Because even before the rioters were out of the building, a fringe movement was building a world of purported evidence onlinea network of lies and dense theories to justify the attack and rewrite what really happened that day. By spring, the narrative among lawmakers began to change. The violent insurrection became, in the words of Republican Representative Andrew Clyde of Georgia, a normal tourist visit. [David A. Graham: Dont let them pretend this didnt happen] The revision of January 6 among many Republicans is alarming. It is also a powerful example of how the internet has warped our political reality. In recent years, this phenomenon has been attributed to the crisis of misinformation. But that term doesnt begin to describe whats really happening. Think back to the original fake news panic, surrounding the 2016 election and its aftermath, when a mixture of partisans and enterprising Macedonian teenagers served up classics such as FBI Agent, Who Exposed Hillary Clintons Cover-up, Found Dead. Academics and pundits endlessly debated the effect of these articles and whether they might cause belief change. Was anyone actually persuaded by these stories such that their worldviews or voting behavior might transform? Or were they really just junk for mindless partisans? Depending on ones perspective, either misinformation posed an existential threat for its potential to brainwash masses of people, or it was effectively harmless. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But there is another, more disturbing possibility, one that we have come to understand through our respective professional work over the past decade. One of us, Mike, has been studying the effects of our broken information environment as a research scientist and information literacy expert, while the other, Charlie, is a journalist who has extensively written and reported on the social web. Lately, our independent work has coalesced around a particular shared idea: that misinformation is powerful, not because it changes minds, but because it allows people to maintain their beliefs in light of growing evidence to the contrary. The internet may function not so much as a brainwashing engine but as a justification machine. A rationale is always just a scroll or a click away, and the incentives of the modern attention economypeople are rewarded with engagement and greater influence the more their audience responds to what theyre sayingmeans that there will always be a rush to provide one. This dynamic plays into a natural tendency that humans have to be evidence foragers, to seek information that supports ones beliefs or undermines the arguments against them. Finding such information (or large groups of people who eagerly propagate it) has not always been so easy. Evidence foraging might historically have meant digging into a subject, testing arguments, or relying on genuine expertise. That was the foundation on which most of our politics, culture, and arguing was built. The current interneta mature ecosystem with widespread access and ease of self-publishingundoes that. As the mob stormed the Capitol on January 6, the justification machine spun up, providing denial-as-a-service to whoever was in need of it, in real time. Jake Angeli, the QAnon Shaman, was an early focus. Right-wing accounts posting about the insurrection as it unfolded argued that these were not genuine Stop the Stealers, because Angeli didnt look the part. This is NOT a Trump supporterThis is a staged #Antifa attack, the pastor Mark Burns wrote in a tweet that showed Angeli in the Senate chamberwhich was then liked by Eric Trump. Other evidence followed. People shared a picture of Angeli at a Black Lives Matter protest that conveniently cropped out the QAnon sign he had been holding. People speculated that he was an actor; others interpreted his tattoos as a sign that he was part of an elite pedophile ring and therefore, in their logic, a Democrat. The use of Angeli as proof that these people were not MAGA was just one of many such scrambles. Within a few hours, MAGA influencers speculated that one protesters tattoo was a hammer and sickleproof of leftist agitation. On TV, a Fox News host argued that Trump supporters dont wear dark helmets, or use black backpacks, so the mob couldnt be Trumpist. Fairly quickly, the narrative emerged that the attack was a false flag, and the media were in on it. Conspiracists pointed to the time stamp of an NPR live blog that seemed to announce the riot before it happened as evidence it was all preplanned by the deep state (and neglected to note that the story, like many, had been updated and re-headlined throughout the day, while retaining the time stamp of the original post). The famous footage of a Capitol Police officer heroically leading the mob away from the door to the Senate was proof in MAGA world that Trump supporters were being coaxed into the Capitol by the cops. Similarly, images of officers overwhelmed by rioters and allowing them past the barricades were further proof that the insurrection had been staged. The real organizer, they argued, was the deep state, abetted by far-left groups. For a while, the rush to gather evidence produced a confusing double narrative from the right. In one telling, the riot was peacefulthe Trump supporters in the Capitol were practically tourists. The other highlighted the violence, suggesting that anti-fascists were causing destruction. Eventually, the dueling stories coalesced into a more complete one: Peaceful Trump supporters had been lured into the Capitol by violent antifa members abetted by law-enforcement instigators working for the deep state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The function of this bad information was not to persuade non-Trump supporters to feel differently about the insurrection. Instead, it was to dispel any cognitive dissonance that viewers of this attempted coup may have experienced, and to reinforce the beliefs that the MAGA faithful already held. And that is the staggering legacy of January 6. With the justification machine whirring, the riot became just more proof of the radical lefts shocking violence or the deep states never-ending crusade against Trump. By January 7, Google searches for antifa and BLM (which had not played a role in the event) surpassed those for Proud Boys (which had). In the months and years after the attempted coup, the justification machine worked to keep millions of Americans from having to reckon with the reality of the day. December 2023 polling by The Washington Post found that 25 percent of respondents believed that it was definitely or probably true that FBI operatives had organized and encouraged the attack on the Capitol. Twenty-six percent were not sure. Conspiracy theorizing is a deeply ingrained human phenomenon, and January 6 is just one of many crucial moments in American history to get swept up in the paranoid style. But there is a marked difference between this insurrection (where people were presented with mountains of evidence about an event that played out on social media in real time) and, say, the assassination of John F. Kennedy (where the internet did not yet exist and people speculated about the event with relatively little information to go on). Or consider the 9/11 attacks: Some did embrace conspiracy theories similar to those that animated false-flag narratives of January 6. But the adoption of these conspiracy theories was aided not by the hyperspeed of social media but by the slower distribution of early online streaming sites, message boards, email, and torrenting; there were no centralized feeds for people to create and pull narratives from. [Read: Im running out of ways to explain how bad this is] The justification machine, in other words, didnt create this instinct, but it has made the process of erasing cognitive dissonance far more efficient. Our current, fractured media ecosystem works far faster and with less friction than past iterations, providing on-demand evidence for consumers that is more tailored than even the most frenzied cable news broadcasts can offer. And its effects extend beyond conspiracists. During this past election season, for example, anti-Trump influencers and liberal-leaning cable news stations frequently highlighted the stream of Trump supporters leaving his rallies earlyimplying that support for Trump was waning. This wasnt true, but such videos helped Democratic audiences stay cocooned in a world where Trump was unpopular and destined to lose. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spend time on social media and its easy to see the demand for this type of content. The early hours of a catastrophic news event were once for sense-making: What happened, exactly? Who was behind it? What was the scale? Now every event is immediately grist for the machine. After a mass shooting, partisans scramble for evidence to suggest that the killer is MAGA, or a radical leftist, or a disaffected trans youth. Last week, in the hours after a mass murderer ran a car into civilians on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, Trump began tossing out lies and speculation about the suspect, suggesting that he was a migrant (information later arrived indicating that the driver was a U.S. citizen and Army veteran). The tragedy and the chaos of its immediate aftermath became an opportunity to attack Democrats about the border. This reflex contributes to a cultural and political rot. A culture where every eventevery human success or tragedybecomes little more than evidence to score political points is a nihilistic one. It is a culture where you never have to change your mind or even confront uncomfortable information. News cycles are shorter, and the biggest stories in the worldsuch as the near assassination of Trump last summer in Pennsylvaniaburn bright in the public consciousness and then disappear. The justification machine thrives on the breakneck pace of our information environment; the machine is powered by the constant arrival of more news, more evidence. Theres no need to reorganize, reassess. The result is a stuckness, a feeling of being trapped in an eternal present tense. This stagnation now defines the legacy of January 6. Once Republicans rewrote their sides understanding of the insurrection (as a nonevent at best and an example of deep-state interference at worst), they dismissed all attempts for accountability as Trump derangement syndrome. Senate Republicans blocked initial attempts at a bipartisan January 6 commission; thenSenate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell called it a purely political exercise that would not uncover crucial new facts or promote healing. During the congressional hearings on the attempted coup, Fox News largely ignored the proceedings. Trump, now president-elect, is pushing for an FBI probe of former Representative Liz Cheney for her involvement in the commission. Its findings, released in a detailed report, were immediately discredited by Republicans, who called it dishonest, politically motivated, and part of a witch hunt. By Republicans cynical logic, the events of January 6 were overblown, but are also ancient history. Only hysterical Democrats, obsessed with taking down Trump, could not move on. Democratsand the two Republicans on the committeewere right to seek accountability for January 6, but it proved exceedingly difficult to do so in an information environment that is constantly stuck in the now and the new. Trump and the MAGA media complex used the insurrection to portray Democrats as a party of scolds, obsessed with the past, droning on about democracy. The commissions work was the sort of precise and methodical case-building that is the opposite of the frenetic and immediate justification engine. In an anti-institutional moment, the congressional truth-gathering process read to some as academic, slow, even elitist. Many simply didnt pay attention to the process. Meanwhile, the right-wing ecosystems work to refute the commission likely felt more improvised, authentic, and ultimately convincing to its followers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the Democratic Party chose to make the 2024 election about Trump, his threat to the rule of law, and the battle for the soul of this nation, as President Biden once put it, it was under the assumption that the indelible images of January 6 would be able to maintain their resonance nearly four years later. That assumption, broadly speaking, was wrong. Confronted with information that could shake their worldviews, people can now search for confirming evidence and mainline conspiracist feeds or decontextualized videos. They can ask AI and their favorite influencers to tell them why they are right. They can build tailored feeds and watch as algorithms deliver what theyre looking for. And they will be overwhelmed with data. The hum of the justification machine is comforting. It makes the world seem less unpredictable, more knowable. Underneath the noise, you can make out the words Youve been right all along. Article originally published at The Atlantic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), on the fourth anniversary of the Capitol riots, said the Jan. 6 protesters were not peace-loving individuals. The thugs who were part of the violent mob on January 6 desecrated the Capitol, threatened to hang the Vice President, assassinate the Speaker of the House and hunt down Members of Congress, Jeffries said in a statement posted to Bluesky. They were not peace-loving individuals. Congress will meet Monday to certify the results of the 2024 election, handing President-elect Trump the keys to his second White House term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has insisted that the Jan. 6 attack was a day of love and vowed to pardon the individuals who stormed the Capitol looking to stop the certification of the 2020 election results when he returns to office. In his statement, Jeffries highlighted the efforts of police officers who responded to the Capitol breach and protected lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. More than 140 officers were injured. One U.S. Capitol Police officer died of a stroke a day later, after suffering injuries on Jan. 6, and four others died by suicide in the days and months following the attack. Jeffries recalled the riot in his statement, calling Trumps supporters a violent mob who attacked the Capitol in an effort to halt the peaceful transfer of power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The American people must never be allowed to forget the events of January 6, 2021, the lives that were lost and the heroism of the law enforcement community, Jeffries said in the statement. History will always remember the attempted insurrection and we will never allow the violence that unfolded in plain sight to be whitewashed. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jimmy Carter campaigns during Kentucky's primary season in this undated photograph by James Edwin Weddle. (University of Kentucky Special Collections Research Center, James Edwin Weddle Photographic Collection) The political life of Jimmy Carter had several threads in Kentucky, which in turn influenced the states political and economic life. Perhaps the first major law Carter signed as president, and one that hasnt been mentioned in any of his many obituaries Ive read, was the 1977 Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act. It ended the state-by-state patchwork of laws on strip mining, a business with much to gain or lose at the hands of politically influenced state regulators. Republican President Gerald Ford had vetoed two previous versions, and when Carter campaigned in Kentucky the week before its 1976 Democratic primary he said he favored strict, uniform, nationwide strip-mine laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law greatly changed the coal industry, greatly reducing the ranks of small operators, who tended to be less obedient of regulators, and requiring that stripped land be restored to its approximate original contour with one big exception. It allowed the tops of mountains to be pushed into the heads of hollows, creating flat land that coal companies said could be developed. But little of it was because of low demand and distance from infrastructure. Only in the last year or two, after the disastrous southeastern Kentucky floods of 2022, are some old strip jobs being turned into badly needed housing outside the floodplains. Still, the law reduced the environmental damage of coal mining, which was probably worse in Kentucky than anywhere else, and included a severance tax that financed the reclamation of abandoned strip mines, which covered 70,000 acres in Eastern Kentucky alone. The abandoned-mine-land law is also being used to finance water projects in areas of Kentucky affected by coal mining. A greater landmark of Carters term was ratification of the treaty giving the Panama Canal to Panama. Kentuckys U.S. senators, both Democrats, split on ratification; Wendell Ford voted against it, while Walter Dee Huddleston voted for it. More than anything else, that 1978 vote cast Huddleston as a national Democrat and was a key factor in his 1984 loss to Republican Mitch McConnell, who is still in the Senate. Carter, governor of Georgia from 1971 through 1974, never really got along with Ford, who was Kentucky governor at about the same time. Ford called him a lightweight and favored Sen. Henry Scoop Jackson of Washington for the 1976 presidential nomination. Fords successor as governor, Julian Carroll, said any Democrat he endorsed would have to support a constitutional amendment banning court-ordered busing for school desegregation, the biggest issue in the Louisville area at the time. That pointed to George Wallace, the segregationist Alabama governor who had won 18% of Kentuckys vote as an independent in 1968 but only 1% in the states 1972 Democratic caucuses, making him a nonviable choice for Carroll. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Into this vacuum stepped two men from Western Kentucky: Bill Cox of Madisonville, a former state representative who was a legislative aide to Carroll, and Dale Sights, a Henderson businessman who was looking for a speaker for his Chamber of Commerces annual dinner. State Sen. William Sullivan and John Stanley Hoffman, who had been Fords natural-resources secretary, had heard Carter speak and suggested him. He agreed, and turned the January 1975 trip into his first true campaign swing in any state; Sullivan, a pilot, flew him around Kentucky, including a stop at Frankfort to see Carroll. A year later, after Carter won the Iowa caucuses, Sights and Cox called an organizational meeting for him in Louisville, where Mayor Harvey Sloane was about to endorse Carter, following Lexington Mayor Foster Petit. As Carter won a string of primaries, his Kentucky bandwagon grew and Carroll finally got on board in mid-April. Carter won Kentuckys first-ever presidential primary with 59% of the vote and in the fall carried Kentucky against the Republican incumbent with 53% of the vote. (In the Republican primary, Ford narrowly upset Ronald Reagan, raising the stock of Fords Kentucky campaign manager, Hal Rogers, who went to Congress from the 5th District four years later and is still there. In 1980, Reagan won Kentucky as the GOP nominee against Carter, and his Kentucky manager, Larry Forgy, figured in the next four races for governor.) Coxs work for Carter and his background in the trucking industry earned him appointment as federal highway administrator, which boosted some Kentucky road projects; he started the process of making the Jefferson (now Gene Snyder) Freeway part of the interstate highway system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sights told me he was offered a wonderful ambassadorial appointment, a typical political plum that presidents hand out, and there were a lot of opportunities beyond political opportunities, but he said his wife, Margaret Ann Sights, was really adamant about us raising the kids in Henderson, and they stayed there. But in matters of federal patronage, large and small, Sights was the man to see in Kentucky. When former Gov. and Sen. Earle Clements couldnt get a signed photograph of Carter to go with those of five previous presidents his daughter and son-in-law, Bess and Tyler Abell, came to see Sights. Carter, who disliked many such traditional practices, had curtailed this one. But an autographed picture soon arrived, and in 1980 Clements attended a rally with Carter at Sights home. Sights told me he drank too much during those political days, leading him into treatment for alcoholism, and he has been involved in construction of recovery housing in Henderson and Bowling Green, and I do interventions around the country as a volunteer. This week, he will be at Carters state funeral. Carters most noted Kentucky appearance was in Bardstown on July 31, 1979. It was a make-good for an appearance he missed during a Louisville-area meeting of the National Governors Association, headed by Carroll, because he was sequestered at Camp David in conferences about the energy crisis and other problems an episode that led to his televised speech about a crisis of confidence in the nation, which Frank Clines of The New York Times later dubbed the malaise speech. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was no malaise in Bardstown that day, as the Nelson County seat gave Carter a rousing welcome before and during a town meeting with citizens. I was a citizen of Bardstown then, as a regional reporter for The Courier-Journal, and gained admission to the general audience so I could write a better story and maybe ask a question of the president, but a Carroll aide spotted me and ordered me to the press section. I long thought that had been my last chance to meet Carter until 2008, when I was returning from a trip to South Africa. The Boeing 747 was ready to leave Johannesburg for Atlanta when there was a commotion up front. Down the aisle came Carter, fresh from a meeting with Nelson Mandela, shaking every hand he could, including mine. His humanitarian work had made him an international celebrity, so he was playing that role, but also that of a politician one who had won the nations top job by running as an outsider, never quite adjusted to the ways of Washington, was removed from it by the voters, and still had a hunger for public regard. I dont begrudge him that; he earned it. This commentary is republished from the Northern Kentucky Tribune, a nonprofit publication of the Kentucky Center for Public Service Journalism. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The UK has not had any discussions with the incoming Trump administration over the crumbling Chagos Islands deal, the defence secretary has admitted, amid growing concerns over the future of the agreement. While the outgoing Biden administration supported the deal, Donald Trumps team is looking for a way to veto it as a result of concerns over possible Chinese interference. The Chagos Islands, part of the British Indian Ocean Territory, are seen as strategically important in southeast Asia as America uses the joint UK-US base on Diego Garcia for ships and long-range bombers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked to outline exactly what discussions have been had between ministers and the incoming Trump administration on the future of the Diego Garcia base, John Healey admitted that no talks have yet taken place. John Healey faces questions over the deal at defence questions in the House of Commons (Parliament TV) The system in the US ... is very different to ours, the defence secretary told the House of Commons. The administration that is in place at the present is in place until inauguration day on January 20. That will be the point at which we as the UK government starts to pick up direct discussions with the incoming administration. The relationship with the US is our closest security ally. We will work with them to ensure we continue to do that. Mr Trumps national security adviser Mike Waltz has been highly critical of the deal, last year saying: Should the UK cede control of the Chagos to Mauritius, I have no doubt that China will take advantage of the resulting vacuum. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Mr Trumps nominee for secretary of state Marco Rubio described the deal as concerning as it would provide an opportunity for communist China to gain valuable intelligence on our naval support facility in Mauritius. Mr Healeys latest admission comes amid growing concern over the future of the deal after the new Mauritian government rejected Sir Keir Starmers deal over Christmas. The deal, which would cede sovereignty over the islands but lease back the strategically important UK-US military base on Diego Garcia, was negotiated with the previous administration. But after taking power, new PM Navin Ramgoolam said he would not finalise the agreement as it would not produce the benefits the nation could expect. A deal was agreed last year to hand over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius (DoD/AFP via Getty) He said the new Mauritian administration has submitted its own suggestions to the UK, which has now responded with its counterproposals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over Christmas, Mr Ramgoolam said there were still parts of the agreement he did not agree with, while the countrys deputy prime minister said Britain was quibbling over a small amount of money in last-minute talks to save the deal. It came after The Independent revealed that the Mauritian government has ordered an independent review of the agreement, throwing the future of Sir Keirs deal into even greater uncertainty. There is also growing concern over the cost of the controversial deal to the British taxpayer, as the government has refused to reveal how much money has been offered to Mauritius as part of the agreement. However, the prime minister and his foreign secretary David Lammy have insisted they had no choice but to hand over the islands. The government has repeatedly said the deal is a good deal that protects both US and UK national security interests and secures long-term protection of the base at Diego Garcia. Mayor Brandon Johnsons administration passed on applying for state funding for a city-owned grocery store, raising questions about the future of the bold proposal the mayor floated more than a year ago. Johnson first raised the idea of a publicly owned grocery store in September 2023. He framed the idea as a way to improve food access on the citys South and West sides, where supermarket closures have left many residents with limited access to fresh groceries in their neighborhoods. Activists who see groceries as a public good akin to a city water department or post office have long supported the concept. Still, the grocery business is notoriously tough, and critics have expressed skepticism that the city, lacking in-house grocery expertise, could pull off the project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The public grocery stores that exist are in much smaller municipalities. Chicago could be the first major U.S. city to open a publicly owned grocery store if it does so, though the idea has attracted interest elsewhere, including in New York City and Atlanta. In December, the city passed on applying for state funding for the project despite previously saying it would do so. The $20 million Illinois Grocery Initiative, which Gov. JB Pritzker signed into law in 2023, was created to help open or fund grocery stores in food deserts statewide. Municipalities are among the entities that can apply for the funding for up to $2.4 million for each project not nearly enough to fund the startup of a grocery store, but a place to start. The Tribune filed a Freedom of Information Act request for applications filed by the city for funding under the state program but found no such records. The first round of state grocery grants were awarded in October, and the deadline to apply for the second round of funding was in early December. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A city spokesperson did not comment Monday on the decision not to apply for funding. In a memo sent to top City Hall staffers Aug. 28, the mayors chief of staff, Cristina Pacione-Zayas, said she was coordinating efforts to apply for a state grant. Staff would be expected to work on tasks like site evaluations and financial analysis to ready the citys application for state funding, Pacione-Zayas wrote in the memo, which the Tribune obtained. In the memo, Pacione-Zayas said HR&A Advisors, a consultancy that authored a feasibility study on the municipally owned grocery project for the city, would lead and support city departments in the application effort. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HR&A had highlighted the state grocery program as a possible source of funding in its study, which found a public grocery store to be necessary, feasible and implementable in Chicago. The city has not released the feasibility study despite previously saying it would. The Tribune and Sun-Times reported on the study in early August. The HR&A consultants were hired by the nonprofit Economic Security Project, a longstanding proponent of public grocery stores that was an initial partner of Johnsons on the grocery project. In a statement, Sarah Saheb, director of the Economic Security Projects Illinois affiliate, said the organization urge[s] leaders across Illinois to take advantage of state resources to help support access to groceries in their communities. As corporations have consolidated power in almost every industry, including grocery store operations, theyve put profits over people, leaving families with chronic diseases and shorter life spans, Saheb said in the statement, adding that the state program gives municipalities the tools they need to create viable public options. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Supermarket closings have plagued the citys South and West sides for years, making it difficult for many residents, especially those who dont have cars or are elderly, to buy fresh groceries. City leaders throughout multiple mayoral administrations have struggled to address grocery store closings, in some cases doling out public funds to bring in private grocers that later close stores in the citys underserved neighborhoods. Under Rahm Emanuel, for example, the city spent more than $10 million to bring a Whole Foods to Englewood that the company closed six years later. Proponents of a city-owned grocery store have argued that while opening such a store could be logistically challenging, it would alleviate some of the issues Chicago has faced by making the city less reliant on the goodwill of for-profit grocery companies. An arch topped with a cross marks the entrance to the Wounded Knee Memorial and cemetery on the Pine Ridge Reservation on June 30, 2024. (Makenzie Huber/South Dakota Searchlight) U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson, R-South Dakota, reintroduced a bill Monday to protect 40 acres at the Wounded Knee Massacre site on behalf of the Oglala Sioux Tribe and Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. Johnsons Wounded Knee Massacre Memorial and Sacred Site Act passed the House in 2023 but didnt make it through the Senate last year. The new session of Congress began Friday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im hopeful the bill passes this Congress to provide greater tribal sovereignty to this sacred land, Johnson said in a news release. The massacre occurred on Dec. 29, 1890. Lakota people were camped near Wounded Knee Creek on the Pine Ridge Reservation in southwestern South Dakota, where they were surrounded by hundreds of Army soldiers. A shot rang out while the soldiers tried to disarm the camp, and chaotic shooting ensued. Fewer than 40 soldiers were killed (some by friendly fire, according to historians), while estimates of Lakota deaths ran from 200 to 300 or more, depending on the source. After some of the bodies froze on the ground for several days, a military-led burial party dumped them into a mass grave. Two years ago, the two tribes purchased 40 acres at the massacre site from a private owner. The legislation would place the land in restricted-fee status, which means it could not be sold, taxed, gifted or leased without approval by Congress and both tribes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Mike Rounds, R-South Dakota, told South Dakota Searchlight that he plans to reintroduce his own version of the bill soon in the Senate. Sen. Thom Tillis, R-North Carolina, took advantage of rules last November allowing a single senator to block consideration of the House-passed bill. Well do whatever we can to help the leaders of the two tribes to get this accomplished, Rounds said. This is their request. This is not a partisan issue. Republicans and Democrats all agree this should be done. One way or another, well get it completed. Tillis has opposed several tribal-related bills in an attempt to get senators to support his own bill to federally recognize the Lumbee Tribe in North Carolina. He called out the leaders of the Oglala and Cheyenne River Sioux tribes for allegedly not supporting his efforts. Rounds said Tillis may seek federal recognition in a different direction with President-elect Donald Trumps impending inauguration. Oglala Sioux Tribe President Frank Star Comes Out called the new bill wholly uncontroversial in Johnsons Monday news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This sacred site should forever serve to remind us of where we as a country have been and as a marker for how much further we have to go, Star Comes Out said. Meanwhile, efforts to rescind medals of honor awarded to soldiers who participated in the massacre remain in limbo. The medals were subjected to a review last year by the Department of Defense, but there hasnt been an announcement of the review panels recommendations. EDITORS NOTE: This story has been updated since its original publication with the addition of comments from Sen. Mike Rounds. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX A man was hospitalized with non-life threatening injuries in a shooting Sunday night in the 1000 block of Anders Boulevard in the Southside area. Police were called to a residence there at about 10:30 p.m. in reference to a male being shot. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Investigators learned that the male was inside of a home when a gunman opened fire outside, Jacksonville police said. Four shots went through the victims bedroom wall striking him once in the hip, police said. He was taken to the hospital and listed in stable condition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No arrests were made. Anyone with information on the shooting is asked to call JSO at 904-630-0500 or via email at jsocrimetips@jaxsheriff.org or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< Read: Were standing on principle: Nocatee group walks 3.5 miles Sunday in face of possible legal challenges Read: Jimmy Carters state funeral has started. Heres what to know [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. A federal judge in New York on Monday held Rudy Giuliani in contempt of court for failing to turn over personal property and information to two Georgia election workers he was found to have defamed. Judge Lewis Liman sided with Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss, who said Giuliani has "not turned over a single dollar" to satisfy the $148 million judgment against the former New York City mayor. MORE: Georgia election workers move for 'severe' sanctions against Giuliani Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The election workers said Giuliani failed to relinquish "a signed Joe DiMaggio shirt, signed Reggie Jackson picture, signed Yankee Stadium picture, or many of the various household goods or furnishings that he valued at $20,000 and which public photographs show he possessed in his New York Apartment." Giuliani was found liable in 2023 for defaming Freeman and Moss by falsely accusing them of tampering with the 2020 presidential vote in Georgia. PHOTO: Rudy Giuliani speaks to the media outside Manhattan federal court in New York after testifying in a contempt hearing, Jan. 3, 2025. (Ted Shaffrey/AP) In a statement, Giuliani representative Ted Goodman said that attorneys "might be happy to fight to take away Mayor Giuliani's most cherished personal belongings including his signed baseball jersey of his childhood hero and his grandfather's pocket watch, but they can never take away his extraordinary record of public service." Judge holds Giuliani in contempt for failing to turn over property to 2 Georgia election workers originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Originally appeared on E! Online Justin Trudeau is starting the New Year with a major update. The Prime Minister of Canada and leader of the Liberal Party announced his intention to resign "as party leader and as prime minister" after the party "selects a new leader through a robust, nationwide competitive process." "Last night I asked the president of the Liberal Party to begin that process," Trudeau, who has held the prime minister position since Nov. 2015 when he defeated Stephen Harper, said during a Jan. 6 press conference in Ottawa. "This country deserves a real choice in the next election and it has become clear to me that if I'm having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The politician, whose late father Pierre Trudeau previously served two non-consecutive terms as prime minister, has been going through a period of personal change in recent years. Indeed, in Aug. 2023, he and Sophie Gregoire announced their separation after 18 years of marriage. More from E! Online "As always, we remain a close family with deep love and respect for each other for everything we have built and will continue to build," Trudeaufather to Xavier, 17, Ella-Grace, 15, and Hadrien, 10, with Gregoirewrote on Instagram at the time. "For the well-being of our children, we ask that you respect our and their privacy." Kamara Morozuk/Bloomberg via Getty Images Since then, Trudeau has shared rare glimpses into family life with his kids, including their holiday celebrations in late 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Dish duty is part of Thanksgiving too," he captioned a picture of the trio on Instagram. "Happy Thanksgiving, from our family to yours." And he shared a sweet Instagram tribute to his eldest son for his birthday in October. "Today this little guy turns 17 (and is much taller than me) Where did the time go?" Trudeau wrote to his son, who shares a birthday with his late father. "Watching Xav grow into such a brilliant, sensitive young man has been one of my greatest joys." "And to my Dad: happy birthday, too," Trudeau added. "Always wish you were here to celebrate with us." For the latest breaking news updates, click here to download the E! News App Outgoing Canadian Prime MinisterJustin Trudeau has slammed President-elect Donald Trumps argument that Canada should join the US. There isnt a snowballs chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States. Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each others biggest trading and security partner, Trudeau wrote on X on Tuesday. The post came after Trump held a press conference where he said he would not consider using military force to make Canada the 51st state but would use economic force. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He argued that the US has spent hundreds of billions of dollars to protect Canada even as the Americans run a trade deficit. Trump has on numerous occasions suggested that Canada become the 51st state and has referred to Trudeau as governor. The president-elect has also indicated that he will impose tariffs on Canadian imports. Trudeau revealed on Monday that hes stepping down as leader of the Canadian Liberal Party and as prime minister once a successor has been chosen. Also on Tuesday, Trump once again suggested that hockey great Wayne Gretzky be a candidate for prime minister. Key Points Former Bank boss Mark Carney considering running to succeed Canadas Trudeau Trudeau is the first liberal beast to be felled by Trump. Question is: whos next? He failed to stop Brexit, but Mark Carney hopes to save Canada from populism Trump says he plans to use economic force to make Canada 51st state Trudeau takes subtle dig at former deputy prime minister whose shock resignation foretold his downfall 03:00 , Rhian Lubin Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As he announced Monday that he would be stepping down as his partys leader, outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made a subtle dig at his former deputy prime minister whose shocking resignation foretold his downfall. Former deputy prime minister and minister of finance Chrystia Freeland threw Trudeaus government into chaos when she abruptly resigned from the cabinet last month, just hours before she was due to deliver the countrys first economic update since the U.S. election. And now, a mere few weeks later, Trudeau followed with his resignation citing internal battles within his Liberal Party. Read more: Trudeaus subtle dig at ex-deputy PM whose shock resignation foretold his downfall Justin Trudeaus resignation speech blows away seconds before announcement 02:00 , Caspar Barnes Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Canadas Prime Minister was forced to resign off the cuff after his notes blew away seconds before his planned resignation announcement on Monday. Ill wing it, Justin Trudeau said, as he watched his notes fly from the lectern standing outside his residence in Ottawa. Trudeau announced he would be stepping down as prime minister, and leader of Canadas Liberal Party, after nearly ten years in power. A row had broken out inside Trudeaus party after US President-elect Donald Trump announced a proposal to introduce 25 percent tariffs on Canada. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stepping down as party leader after nearly 10 years in office 01:00 , Rachel Clun, Rhian Lubin Justin Trudeau said Monday that he will step down as prime minister of Canada, after weeks of mounting pressure from within his ruling Liberal Party about how to deal with incoming U.S. President Donald Trump and trade tariffs he has promised. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking outside his residence at Rideau Cottage, Trudeau said he had taken time over the holidays to reflect with his family. Throughout the course of my career, any success I have personally achieved has been because of their support and with their encouragement, Trudeau said. Read more: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stepping down as party leader Why Justin Trudeau resigned after nine years as Canadian prime minister 00:00 , Ariana Baio Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau resigned as leader of the Liberal Party on Monday, after facing immense pressure to step down from members of his own party since his deputy prime minister resigned over concerns about Donald Trumps tariffs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Facing low approval ratings in part due to the cost of living crisis, signs were mounting that Canadians had lost faith in the Liberal Party, which Trudeau has led as prime minister since 2015. But internal confidence plummeted in mid-December, when Chrystia Freeland, the deputy prime minister and head of finance, unexpectedly resigned citing disagreements over the handling of Trumps proposed 25 percent tariffs on the country an issue that could damage the economy. Read more: Why is Justin Trudeau stepping down as Canadas prime minister? WATCH: Justin Trudeau resigns as Canadian prime minister Tuesday 7 January 2025 23:00 , Gustaf Kilander What happens now that Justin Trudeau has resigned? Tuesday 7 January 2025 22:00 , Ariana Baio Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is stepping down as leader of the Liberal Party after serving as prime minister for nearly a decade a move that requires the party to choose a new leader. Facing mounting pressure to resign from members of his own party, Trudeau announced on Monday he will step down from his post which he was first elected to in 2015. I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister after the party selects its next leader through a robust nationwide, competitive process, Trudeau said on Monday. Now, the Liberal Party will decide on its next leader by holding a contest to decide who will succeed Trudeau. Until they do so, Trudeau will remain prime minister. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What happens now that Justin Trudeau has resigned? Former Bank boss Mark Carney considering running to succeed Canadas Trudeau Tuesday 7 January 2025 21:00 , Holly Williams Former Bank of England governor Mark Carney is considering entering the race to succeed Justin Trudeau as leader of Canadas Liberal Party. Mr Carney who headed up Britains central bank between 2013 and 2020 said he was mooting the move following the resignation of Mr Trudeau after nine years as prime minister amid a mounting loss of support from both within his party and across Canada. In a statement to the Financial Times newspaper, Mr Carney said: Ill be considering this decision closely with my family over the coming days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Canadian, 59, would be one of a number of contenders for the role, alongside Mr Trudeaus former deputy Chrystia Freeland and transport minister Anita Anand. Read more: Former Bank boss Mark Carney considering running to succeed Canadas Trudeau Trudeau is the first liberal beast to be felled by Trump. Question is: whos next? Tuesday 7 January 2025 20:00 , Mary Dejevsky Canada was, it was widely said, plunged into crisis after Justin Trudeau resigned as prime minister and Liberal Party leader on the first working day after the holiday break. But this is not quite true. Canadian politics was already in crisis. It might be more accurate to present Trudeaus resignation as offering the only way out of the crisis that had culminated last month in the summary departure of his deputy and finance minister, Chrystia Freeland, and the loss of support from the last party in parliament, still shoring up his minority government. Freelands resignation had laid bare a sharp policy split at the apex of the government over public spending, while the threat by Jagmeet Singh, leader of the New Democratic Party, to propose a no-confidence vote could have toppled a government already barely able to govern. Read more: Trudeau is the first liberal beast to be felled by Trump. Question is: whos next? He failed to stop Brexit, but Mark Carney hopes to save Canada from populism Tuesday 7 January 2025 19:30 , James Liddell Mark Carney, who could enter the race to succeed Justin Trudeau as leader of Canadas Liberal Party, came to prominence in Britain as the man hand-picked by George Osborne to be governor of the Bank of England and help bring financial stability after the 2008 banking collapse. His tenure at the Bank became better-known for his failed attempts to persuade Britons not to vote to leave the European Union in the 2016 referendum. But while he failed to stop Brexit, he now hopes to be the man who can step in and prevent populists taking control in Canada. The economist, 59, who holds British and Irish as well as Canadian citizenship, has said he is considering this decision closely with my family over the coming days. David Maddox has the full story. Mark Carney: Failed to stop Brexit but hopes to save Canada from populism Canada-India relations may improve thanks to Trudeau departure, expert says Tuesday 7 January 2025 19:00 , James Liddell The former Indian High Commissioner to Canada has speculated that Canada-India relations could improve thanks to Justin Trudeaus resignation. According to Vikas Swarup, relations between Canada and India had reached their lowest point in decades under the incumbent prime ministers leadership. Swarup told to CNBC TV18 that if the Liberal Party lose in the next election, as some opinion polling indicates, it could pave the way for a substantial change in ties between the two nations. The fight between India and Canada was never between India and Canada, it was between India and Prime Minister Trudeau, Swarup explained, referring to the controversy surrounding Trudeaus allegations against India and the assassination of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Vancouver. Trump says he plans to use economic force to make Canada 51st state Tuesday 7 January 2025 18:15 , Gustaf Kilander President-elect Donald Trump was asked if he plans to use military force to make Canada the 51st state. He said he plans to use economic force. Because Canada and the United States, that would really be something you get rid of that artificially drawn line, and you take a look at what that looks like, he added. And it would also be much better for national security. Don't forget, we basically protect Canada, he claimed. But here's the problem with Canada. So many friends up there. I love the Canadian people. They're great, but we're spending hundreds of billions a year to protect it. Trump says he plans to use "economic force" to make Canada a state pic.twitter.com/fNxQ59FQlS Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) January 7, 2025 Opposition leader taunts Trudeau and says hes too cowardly to call election Tuesday 7 January 2025 18:00 , James Liddell Trudeau quits as Liberal leader & prorogues Parliament. He was too cowardly to call an election & face voters. Instead, he wants Canadians to wait while his incompetent Liberal Party selects the next UNELECTED Prime Minister. Enough. Stop this clown show and call an axe the pic.twitter.com/INO5mZK6Uj Pierre Poilievre (@PierrePoilievre) January 7, 2025 After trolling Canada and Trudeau toppled, Trump sets sights on Greenland Tuesday 7 January 2025 17:30 , James Liddell Less than 24 hours after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his exit, Donald Trump dispatched his eldest son on a visit to Greenland and said the US must acquire the autonomous Arctic territory from Denmark. Don Jr. and my Reps landing in Greenland. The reception has been great, Trump wrote on Truth Social on Tuesday morning. They, and the Free World, need safety, security, strength, and PEACE! This is a deal that must happen. MAGA. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN! The incoming commander-in-chief first trailed the visit on Monday evening, posting that he is hearing that the people of Greenland are MAGA. He added: My son, Don Jr, and various representatives, will be traveling there to visit some of the most magnificent areas and sights. The president-elect has also talked about merging the US with Canada in recent days, capitalizing on the political instability caused by Trudeaus resignation this week to post on Truth Social on Monday: Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State. Ontario premier taunts Trump with counteroffer': buying Alaska Tuesday 7 January 2025 17:00 , James Liddell Ontario Premier Doug Ford responded to Donald Trumps repeated comments about annexing Canada: Ill make him a counteroffer. How about if we buy Alaska? Well throw in Minnesota, and Minneapolis at the same timepic.twitter.com/cLjSBwaOy1 Republicans against Trump (@RpsAgainstTrump) January 7, 2025 ICYMI: Trudeau takes subtle dig at former deputy prime minister whose shock resignation foretold his downfall Tuesday 7 January 2025 16:35 , James Liddell As he announced Monday that he would be stepping down as his partys leader, outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made a subtle dig at his former deputy prime minister whose shocking resignation foretold his downfall. Former deputy prime minister and minister of finance Chrystia Freeland threw Trudeaus government into chaos when she abruptly resigned from the cabinet last month, just hours before she was due to deliver the countrys first economic update since the U.S. election. And now, a mere few weeks later, Trudeau followed with his resignation citing internal battles within his Liberal Party. Rhian Lubin has the story. Trudeaus subtle dig at ex-deputy PM whose shock resignation foretold his downfall Canadian billionaire, who once vied to be PM, urged Trump to tone down Canada rhetoric days before Trudeau exit Tuesday 7 January 2025 16:10 , James Liddell Canadian billionaire Kevin OLeary said that he urged Donald Trump to stand down on Canada until a new prime minister is appointed, just days before Justin Trudeau announced his departure. The Shark Tank star, who in 2016 entered the race to lead Canadas Conservative Party, told Americas Newsroom on Tuesday that he visited the president elects Mar-a-Lago resort on Saturday. So I was in Mar-a-Lago over the weekend. I had a few moments with the president-elect, and I asked him if he would consider the fact that Trudeau... on Saturday, when we were talking, the rumors were that he was going to resign, he said. I said, Well, why not stand down on Canada for the next couple of months while they elect a new leader like you were elected with a four year mandate. OLearys plea follows Trump threatening to impose a blanket 25 percent tariff on the import of Canadian goods, and suggesting that the nation will become the 51st US state. Ontario premier announces border crackdown amidst Trump threats that derailed Trudeau Tuesday 7 January 2025 15:55 , James Liddell Premier of Ontario Doug Ford announced the launch of Operation Deterrence to bolster border security with the US, as Donald Trumps tariff threats loom. On Tuesday morning, less than 24 hours after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus resignaton, Ford said in a statement that the Ontario government will crack down on illegal border crossings and illegal guns and drugs. As part of the response, the Ontario Provincial Police has assembled an emergency response team of 200 officers. After garnering enough electoral college votes to be declared president-elect in November, Trump threatened to impose a blanket 25 percent tariff on the import of Canadian goods unless border security is tightened. Writing at the time on Truth Social, he said that the levy would remain in effect until such time as Drugs, in particular Fentanyl, and all Illegal Aliens stop this Invasion of our Country. In focus: Justin Trudeaus fall from grace shows politics is an ugly game in every way Tuesday 7 January 2025 15:30 , James Liddell When Justin Trudeau became the Canadian prime minister in 2015, people were still using that thing called Facebook. I can remember well the frothing posts by female friends, none of whom could contain their excitement at the election of this hottie PM. Furthermore, they gushed at the notion that what made him hotter still was not only that he was young and handsome, he was a lovely liberal dude too, which made him even more super-duper guy. (If my male friends had written about an equally attractive female prime minister in such a way, they might well have been cancelled, but lets park that.) As far as my friends were concerned and to be fair, Trudeau had plenty of male fanboys here was the perfect Generation X politician, and all would surely be well in his good hands. It certainly doesnt look like that any more because. With an approval rating of just 30 per cent, and facing a huge crisis in the wake of his deputy prime minister and finance minister, Chrystia Freeland, resigning, Justin Trudeau has finally stepped down. Guy Walters has more. Justin Trudeaus fall from grace shows politics is an ugly game for a handsome face Biden heaps on praise for friend Trudeau Tuesday 7 January 2025 15:05 , James Liddell US President Joe Biden has heaped on praise for Canadas departing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, noting hes proud to call him my friend. Biden, who has less than two weeks left in office, made the comments in a statement released by the White House on Tuesday morning. He said that he spoke with Trudeau on Monday to express his appreciation. Over the last decade, Prime Minister Trudeau has led with commitment, optimism, and strategic vision. The U.S.-Canada alliance is stronger because of him. The American and Canadian people are safer because of him. And the world is better off because of him, the president said. I am proud to call him my friend. And I will be forever grateful for his partnership and leadership. Biden also thanked Trudeau for their joint management of the Covid-19 pandemic, climate change and the war on fentanyl. He let you down: NPD leader Jagmeet Singh makes pitch to Canadians Tuesday 7 January 2025 14:45 , James Liddell The leader of Canadas New Democratic Party Jagmeet Singh has spoken out about the incumbent prime ministers departure and the potential new Liberal leader, while taking a swipe at the Conservative Party. Writing in a statement on Monday, Singh said: Justin Trudeau has let you down, over and over. He let you down on the cost of housing and groceries. He let you down on fixing health care. It doesn't matter who leads the Liberals. They don't deserve another chance. Conservatives are jumping at the opportunity to take from you and give more to CEOs. You will pay the price of Poilievre's cuts. If you oppose callous Conservative cuts; if you oppose the rich getting richer while everyone else falls further behind stand with the NDP this time. Watch: Justin Trudeaus resignation speech blows away seconds before announcement Tuesday 7 January 2025 14:20 , James Liddell Canadian prime ministers notes blow away seconds before resignation speech Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre lashes out at Liberal PM hopeful Mark Carney Tuesday 7 January 2025 13:55 , James Liddell Amazing: Even after Justin Trudeau calls it quits, Carbon Tax Carney stays on as Chair of Trudeaus Economic Growth Council." Carney is just like Justin and he would carry on the same out-of-control tax hikes, deficits, corporate welfare and bureaucracy that broke our economy. Pierre Poilievre (@PierrePoilievre) January 7, 2025 When might there be a new Canadian prime minister? Tuesday 7 January 2025 13:30 , James Liddell Soon-to-be-ex Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he would stay on in office until his Liberal Party can choose a new leader. Parliament will now be prorogued until March 2024. The Liberals will need to elect a new leader before parliament resumes because the three opposition parties the Conservative Party, New Democratic Party and Bloc Quebecois say they will bring down the government in a no-confidence vote at the first opportunity, which would trigger an election. The new Liberal leader might not be prime minister for long and a spring election would very likely favor the opposing Conservative Party. Voices: Trudeau is the first liberal beast to be felled by Trump. Question is, whos next? Tuesday 7 January 2025 13:11 , James Liddell Canada was, it was widely said, plunged into crisis after Justin Trudeau resigned as prime minister and Liberal Party leader on the first working day after the holiday break. But this is not quite true. Canadian politics was already in crisis. It might be more accurate to present Trudeaus resignation as offering the only way out of the crisis that had culminated last month in the summary departure of his deputy and finance minister, Chrystia Freeland, and the loss of support from the last party in parliament, still shoring up his minority government. Freelands resignation had laid bare a sharp policy split at the apex of the government over public spending, while the threat by Jagmeet Singh, leader of the New Democratic Party, to propose a no-confidence vote could have toppled a government already barely able to govern. Trudeau may have, as he said in his resignation announcement, consulted his family before making his decision, but in truth, the decision had been made for him. The Liberal Party is now looking for a new leader, with the possibility that the next general election, to be held by next autumn, could be brought forward. Columnist Mary Dejevsky ponders who might succeed the soon-to-be-ex Canadian prime minister. Trudeau is the first liberal beast to be felled by Trump. Question is: whos next? Trudeaus premiership in pictures Tuesday 7 January 2025 12:50 , James Liddell Trudeau speaks to supporters during a campaign stop in Toronto on August 17, 2015 (AP) Donald Trump and Trudeau talk prior to a NATO round table meeting in Watford, England on December 4, 2019 (AP) Trudeau and VP Kamala Harris tour outside the Eisenhower Executive Office Building on November 18, 2021 (Getty) Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announces his resignation outside Rideau Cottage in Ottawa on Janaury 6 (AP) Trudeaus potential successors speak out Tuesday 7 January 2025 12:31 , James Liddell After a lifetime of public service Justin Trudeau has stepped aside as both Leader of the Liberal Party and Prime Minister of Canada. I want to thank him as a Canadian for his service to the country that he so clearly loves. I wish him and his family well. As a lifelong Liberal Christy Clark (@christyclarkbc) January 6, 2025 I thank Justin Trudeau for his years of service to Canada and Canadians. I wish him and his family the very best. Chrystia Freeland (@cafreeland) January 6, 2025 Over the last ten years, the Prime Minister devoted himself to making this country a better place for all Canadians. Thank you, @JustinTrudeau for your leadership, determination and sacrifice. Sending well wishes to him and his family. Melanie Joly (@melaniejoly) January 6, 2025 Thank you, Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau. Serving alongside you in the House of Commons and in your Cabinet has been the honour of a lifetime. Dominic LeBlanc (@DLeBlancNB) January 6, 2025 Tuesday 7 January 2025 12:11 , James Liddell Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is stepping down as leader of the Liberal Party after serving as prime minister for nearly a decade a move that requires the party to choose a new leader. Facing mounting pressure to resign from members of his own party, Trudeau announced on Monday he will step down from his post which he was first elected to in 2015. Now, the Liberal Party will decide on its next leader by holding a contest to decide who will succeed Trudeau. Until they do so, Trudeau will remain prime minister. The move comes eight months before the country is expected to hold federal elections. Ariana Baiooutlines what might happen next. What happens now that Justin Trudeau has resigned? Mark Carney: From running the Banks of England and Canada to trying to succeed Justin Trudeau Tuesday 7 January 2025 11:50 , James Liddell Mark Carney came to prominence in Britain as the man hand-picked by George Osborne to be governor of the Bank of England and help bring financial stability after the 2008 banking collapse. But his tenure at the Bank became better known for his failed attempts to stop Brexit in the 2016 referendum and a rearguard action to mitigate the disaster of leaving the EU. However, while he failed to stop Brexit he now hopes to be the man who can step in and prevent populists taking control in Canada. The economist, 59, who holds British and Irish as well as Canadian citizenship, has put himself forward to replace Justin Trudeau as the next leader of the Liberal Party in Canada and become its prime minister. The Independents political editor, David Maddox, has the full story. Mark Carney: From running Banks of England to trying to succeed Justin Trudeau Watch: Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeaus resignation speech Tuesday 7 January 2025 11:30 , James Liddell Musk, a former Canada resident, revels in Trudeaus resignation Tuesday 7 January 2025 11:10 , James Liddell Former Canada resident Elon Musk has shared his jubilation over Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announcing his resignation on Monday night. In the wake of Trudeaus announcement, Musk shared a post celebrating the PMs departure on his social media platform, X, with the caption: 2025 is looking good. The original post read: Trump won. Trudeau resigned. Keir Starmer got exposed. Nayib Bukele cut crime by 95% in El Salvador. Javier Milei created the first surplus since 2008 in Argentina. Masculinity is back. Great men are ascendant. And just in time. Were going to need them. Musk, who is set to lead Donald Trumps unofficial Department of Government Efficiency, immigrated to Canada at the age of 18, acquiring citizenship through his Canadian-born mother, Maye. A decade later, the billionaire became a naturalized US citizen. Musk was born in Pretoria, South Africa. ICYMI: Trump declares many Candians LOVE being the 51st State Tuesday 7 January 2025 10:50 , James Liddell Donald Trump once again taunted Canada, claiming its citizens LOVE being the 51st State (Donald Trump/Truth Social) Mark Carney, former governor of the Bank of England, to enter race to succeed Trudeau Tuesday 7 January 2025 10:35 , James Liddell The former governor of the Bank of England and Bank of Canada, Mark Carney is considering entering the race to succeed Justin Trudeau as Liberal party leader, following the Canadian incumbent prime ministers exit on Monday. Carney, 59, is the chair of Brookfield Asset Management and is affiliated with Liberal-alligned think tank Canada 2020. He has never run for political office. Ill be considering this decision closely with my family over the coming days, Carney told the Financial Times. Carney has remained a top adviser to Trudeaus government and, in September, the Liberal party announced he would lead a task force on economic growth. Throughout his extensive career both in public service and the private sector, Mark Carneys ideas, deep experience, and proven economic leadership have made a bedrock contribution to a better economic future for all Canadians, Trudeau said at the time. How the once fresh face of Canadian liberalism began hemorrhaging support Tuesday 7 January 2025 10:15 , James Liddell After nearly 10 years at the countrys helm, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has resigned as leader of the ruling Liberal Party. Trudeaus latest crisis has been sparked by the sudden resignation of his finance minister Chrystia Freeland, amid a dispute over how best to handle U.S. President-elect Donald Trumps threatened trade tariffs. At a press conference on Monday, Trudeau cited internal battles within the Liberal Party that meant he cannot be the best option in the next election. Once the poster-boy for liberal politics, his popularity has waned and his approval rating has dipped below 30 percent several times this year. So what went wrong? Rachel Clun and Rhian Lubin have the details. The rise and fall of Justin Trudeau as Canadian prime minister resigns Heres who might replace Justin Trudeau as Liberal Party leader Tuesday 7 January 2025 10:00 , James Liddell In the wake of Justin Trudeau, the incumbent Canadian prime minister, stepping down on Monday, the (unofficial) race to replace him is underway. Here are the potential front-runners: Anita Anand: 57-year-old was minister of procurement during the Covid-19 pandemic before becoming defense minister in 2021. In 2023, she became president of the Treasury Board. Mark Carney: 59-year-old former central banker for Canada and the UK who is now affiliated with Liberal-aligned think tank Canada 2020. Francois-Philippe Champagne: 54-year-old current minister for innovation who has held a suite of cabinet jobs: from international trade to foreign affairs. One of Trudeaus officials tasked with handling contentious relations with the US ahead of the 2024 election. Christy Clark: 59-year-old former Liberal premier-turned-senior law firm advisor. Openly called for Trudeaus resignation after the TorontoSt. Pauls byelection loss in June. Sean Fraser: 40-year-old lawyer quit Trudeaus cabinet as housing minister in December. Though he said he would not run in the next federal election, he shouldnt be ruled out. Chrystia Freeland: 56-year-old long-trusted senior official under Trudeau also resigned in December. Handled the North American Free Trade Agreement during Donald Trumps first term between 2016-2018. Melanie Joly: 45-year-old has been foreign affairs minister since 2021 and is leading the Canadian response to the Russia-Ukraine war and conflict in the Middle East. Dominic LeBlanc: 57-year-old minister of Intergovernmental Affairs who was fixer-in-chief under Trudeau during the Covid-19 pandemic and healthcare negotiations. Ontario premier Doug Ford: Lets get to work and build Fortress Am-Can Tuesday 7 January 2025 09:45 , James Liddell I want Canada and America to be the richest, most prosperous, safest and most successful countries on the planet. Canada has the critical minerals, oil and nuclear energy needed to make it happen. Lets get to work and build Fortress Am-Can. pic.twitter.com/DQPGVTJ5HV Doug Ford (@fordnation) January 7, 2025 Its not just Canada. Trump also vies to take over Greenland Tuesday 7 January 2025 09:30 , James Liddell In the wake of Donald Trump again musing Canada will become the 51st US state, his eldest son, Don Jr, is set to visit Greenland Tuesday, as his father triggers local anger by renewing his push to make the Danish territory part of the U.S. The president-elect announced on his social network Truth Social on Monday that Don Jr and "various representatives" would soon be touring the island's "magnificent areas and sights. The soon-to-be president added: Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our Nation. We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside World. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN! Io Dodds has the details. Don Jr to visit Greenland as Trump renews threat to take it over Inside Justin Trudeaus three general election wins Tuesday 7 January 2025 09:15 , James Liddell Justin Trudeau was once heralded as a fresh face of liberalism, offering a message of hope and prosperity to revive a party which had collapsed in support when he took over. During his nine years in office, he won three general elections, with his share of the vote slipping each cycle. 2015: Justin Trudeau had collapsed to 34 seats with 19 percent of the vote in the 2011 election. Returning four years later with an image of positivity and competence to the Liberals, they stormed to a majority win with 184 seats and a 39.5 percent vote share. 2019: The Liberals lost their parliamentary majority in 2019, after a vote swing of -6.4 percent saw them lose 20 seats. They nonetheless went on to form a single-party minority government, setting a record at the time for the lowest ever vote share required to do so. The Conservatives won the popular vote; Trudeaus party won 36 more seats. 2021: For the second election running, the Liberals narrowly lost the popular vote but were able to form a government. Trudeau had hoped the positivity around his governments response to the Covid pandemic would translate into a rallying majority. Although this did not happen, the Liberals marginally increased their seat share. Explainer: Why did Why Justin Trudeau resign? Tuesday 7 January 2025 09:00 , James Liddell Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau resigned as leader of the Liberal Party on Monday, after facing immense pressure to step down from members of his own party since his deputy prime minister resigned over concerns about Donald Trumps tariffs. Facing low approval ratings in part due to the cost of living crisis, signs were mounting that Canadians had lost faith in the Liberal Party, which Trudeau has led as prime minister since 2015. But internal confidence plummeted in mid-December, when Chrystia Freeland, the deputy prime minister and head of finance, unexpectedly resigned citing disagreements over the handling of Trumps proposed 25 percent tariffs on the country an issue that could damage the economy. Ariana Baio disects Trudeaus resignation. Why is Justin Trudeau stepping down as Canadas prime minister? What happens now that Justin Trudeau has resigned? Tuesday 7 January 2025 08:45 , Alexander Butler What happens now that Justin Trudeau has resigned? Trudeau goes after leader of Canadian Conservatives Tuesday 7 January 2025 08:30 , James Liddell Justin Trudeau bashed Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the Canadian Conservatives, arguing that his vision is not the right one for Canadians. The outgoing prime minister said it doesnt make sense to stop fighting climate change. We need an ambitious, optimistic view of the future, he said. Pierre Poilievre is not offering that, he added. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau makes an announcement outside Rideau Cottage in Ottawa on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025 (AP) Why Justin Trudeau resigned after nine years as Canadian prime minister? Tuesday 7 January 2025 08:15 , Alexander Butler Why is Justin Trudeau stepping down as Canadas prime minister? The rise and fall of Justin Trudeau as Canadian prime minister resigns Tuesday 7 January 2025 08:00 , Rachel Clun, Rhian Lubin After nearly 10 years at the countrys helm, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has resigned as leader of the ruling Liberal Party. Trudeaus latest crisis has been sparked by the sudden resignation of his finance minister Chrystia Freeland, amid a dispute over how best to handle U.S. President-elect Donald Trumps threatened trade tariffs. At a press conference on Monday, Trudeau cited internal battles within the Liberal Party that meant he cannot be the best option in the next election. Speaking outside his residence at Rideau Cottage, Trudeau said he had taken time over the holidays to reflect with his family. Throughout the course of my career, any success I have personally achieved has been because of their support and with their encouragement, Trudeau said. Read more: The rise and fall of Justin Trudeau as Canadian prime minister resigns Possible successors: Mark Carney Tuesday 7 January 2025 07:40 , Gustaf Kilander The former head of both the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England is a Liberal who has been serving as an adviser to Trudeau for the last several months. He has been after the leadership post for quite some time, according to the BBC. Mark Carney, UN Special Envoy on Climate Action and Finance speaks at the Earthshot Prize Innovation Summit in partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies on September 24, 2024 in New York City (Getty Images for Bloomberg Phila) Justin Trudeaus fall from grace shows politics is an ugly game in every way Tuesday 7 January 2025 07:20 , Chris Stevenson When Justin Trudeau became the Canadian prime minister in 2015, people were still using that thing called Facebook. I can remember well the frothing posts by female friends, none of whom could contain their excitement at the election of this hottie PM. Furthermore, they gushed at the notion that what made him hotter still was not only that he was young and handsome, he was a lovely liberal dude too, which made him even more super-duper guy. (If my male friends had written about an equally attractive female prime minister in such a way, they might well have been canceled, but lets park that.) As far as my friends were concerned and to be fair, Trudeau had plenty of male fanboys here was the perfect Generation X politician, and all would surely be well in his good hands. Read more: Justin Trudeaus fall from grace shows politics is an ugly game for a handsome face Trump pushes for Canada to join US after Trudeau resignation announcement Tuesday 7 January 2025 07:00 , Chris Stevenson Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State. The United States can no longer suffer the massive Trade Deficits and Subsidies that Canada needs to stay afloat. Justin Trudeau knew this, and resigned. If Canada merged with the U.S., there would be no Tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be TOTALLY SECURE from the threat of the Russian and Chinese Ships that are constantly surrounding them. Together, what a great Nation it would be!!! Donald Trump Why Justin Trudeau resigned after nine years as Canadian Prime Minister Tuesday 7 January 2025 06:40 , Chris Stevenson Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau resigned as leader of the Liberal Party on Monday, after facing immense pressure to step down from members of his own party since his deputy prime minister resigned over concerns about Donald Trumps tariffs. Facing low approval ratings in part due to the cost of living crisis, signs were mounting that Canadians had lost faith in the Liberal Party, which Trudeau has led as prime minister since 2015. But internal confidence plummeted in mid-December, when Chrystia Freeland, the deputy prime minister and head of finance, unexpectedly resigned citing disagreements over the handling of Trumps proposed 25 percent tariffs on the country an issue that could damage the economy. Read more: Why Justin Trudeau resigned after nine years as Canadian Prime Minister Possible successors: Chrystia Freeland Tuesday 7 January 2025 06:18 , Chris Stevenson The former journalist and Toronto MP has long been seen as a possible successor to Justin Trudeau. Originally from Alberta, Freeland became the countrys first woman finance minister before resigning in December over a disagreement between her and Trudeau on spending on how to react to the threat of tariffs from President-elect Donald Trump. Chrystia Freeland delivers remarks on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario, Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024 (The Canadian Press) Trudeau says government will be singularly focused on economy as Trump tariff threat looms Tuesday 7 January 2025 06:00 , Gustaf Kilander During his press conference Monday, as he announced his resignation, Justin Trudeau was asked by a reporter, How can the Liberal government be in a position to protect Canadian businesses and Canadians from the threat of tariffs from incoming President Donald Trump when members of the government are going to be focused on whos going to be taking your job? The government will still and the Cabinet will still be very much focused on doing the job the Canadians elected us to do in 2021, which is fight for their interests, stand up for their wellbeing, and make sure that they are good and that Canadians are protected and strong, he said. There will be a leadership process and the rules will unfold over the coming weeks, but I can assure you that the tools and the need to stand up for Canadians to protect Canadians in their interests and continue to fight for the economy is something that everyone in this government will be singularly focused on, he added. WATCH: Justin Trudeau resigns as Canadian prime minister Tuesday 7 January 2025 05:00 , Gustaf Kilander Trudeau calls Chrystia Freeland an incredible political partner' Tuesday 7 January 2025 04:00 , Gustaf Kilander Justin Trudeau commented on the departure of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland last month. She has been an incredible political partner through just about everything we have done as a government and as a party over the past decade, he said Monday. I had really hoped that she would agree to continue as my deputy prime minister and take on one of the most important files that not just this government but this country is facing, but she chose otherwise. In regards to what actually happened, I am not someone whos in the habit of sharing private conversations, he added. Justin Trudeau and Chrystia Freeland speak at a press conference to announce the new trade pact with Canada, the United States, and Mexico in Ottawa, October 1, 2018 (AFP via Getty Images) What happens now that Justin Trudeau has resigned? Tuesday 7 January 2025 03:00 , Ariana Baio Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is stepping down as leader of the Liberal Party after serving as prime minister for nearly a decade a move that requires the party to choose a new leader. Facing mounting pressure to resign from members of his own party, Trudeau announced on Monday he will step down from his post which he was first elected to in 2015. I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister after the party selects its next leader through a robust nationwide, competitive process, Trudeau said on Monday. Now, the Liberal Party will decide on its next leader by holding a contest to decide who will succeed Trudeau. Until they do so, Trudeau will remain prime minister. Read more: What happens now that Justin Trudeau has resigned? Trudeau announces resignation speech at Rideau Cottage Tuesday 7 January 2025 02:00 , Gustaf Kilander Justin Trudeau announced his resignation Monday. Last night, over dinner, I told my kids about the decision that I sharing with you today, he said. I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister after the party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide, competitive process, he added. Last night, I asked the president of the Liberal Party to begin that process. This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if I am having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election. Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announces his resignation as Liberal leader and prime minister outside Rideau Cottage in Ottawa on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025 (AP) Trudeau: Ive fought for this country' Tuesday 7 January 2025 01:00 , Gustaf Kilander Justin Trudeau took to the podium Monday, saying Every morning Ive woken up as prime minister, Ive been inspired by the resilience, the generosity and the determination of Canadians. He added: It is the driving force of every single day I have the privilege of serving in this office, that is why, since 2015 Ive fought for this country, for you, to strengthen and grow the middle class, why we rallied to support each other through the pandemic, to advance reconciliation, to defend free trade on this continent, to stand strong with Ukraine and our democracy and to fight climate change and get our economy ready for the future. We are at a critical moment in the world, he argued. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stepping down as party leader after nearly 10 years in office Tuesday 7 January 2025 00:15 , Rachel Clun, Rhian Lubin Monday Justin Trudeau said Monday that he will step down as prime minister of Canada, after weeks of mounting pressure from within his ruling Liberal Party about how to deal with incoming U.S. President Donald Trump and trade tariffs he has promised. Speaking outside his residence at Rideau Cottage, Trudeau said he had taken time over the holidays to reflect with his family. Throughout the course of my career, any success I have personally achieved has been because of their support and with their encouragement, Trudeau said. So last night over dinner, I told my kids about the decision that Im sharing with you today. I intend to resign as party leader as prime minister after the party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide, competitive process. Read more: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stepping down as party leader Justin Trudeau: Photo collection Monday 6 January 2025 23:30 , Gustaf Kilander Justin Trudeau, his wife Sophie Gregoire, son Xavier and daughter Ella-Grace react after he was named the new leader of the Liberal Party of Canada in Ottawa, Canada April 14, 2013 (REUTERS) Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau receives a COVID-19 booster shot in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada November 4, 2024 (REUTERS) U.S. President Donald Trump, left, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau talk prior to a NATO round table meeting at The Grove hotel and resort in Watford, Hertfordshire, England, Dec. 4, 2019 (AP) Liberal leader Justin Trudeau makes his way to the stage with wife Sophie Gregoire at the Liberal party headquarters in Montreal on Oct. 20, 2015 (AP) Justin Trudeaus resignation speech blows away seconds before announcement Monday 6 January 2025 22:45 , Caspar Barnes Canadas Prime Minister was forced to resign off the cuff after his notes blew away seconds before his planned resignation announcement on Monday. Ill wing it, Justin Trudeau said, as he watched his notes fly from the lectern standing outside his residence in Ottawa. Trudeau announced he would be stepping down as prime minister, and leader of Canadas Liberal Party, after nearly ten years in power. A row had broken out inside Trudeaus party after US President-elect Donald Trump announced a proposal to introduce 25 percent tariffs on Canada. Why Justin Trudeau resigned after nine years as Canadian Prime Minister Monday 6 January 2025 22:00 , Ariana Baio Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau resigned as leader of the Liberal Party on Monday, after facing immense pressure to step down from members of his own party since his deputy prime minister resigned over concerns about Donald Trumps tariffs. Facing low approval ratings in part due to the cost of living crisis, signs were mounting that Canadians had lost faith in the Liberal Party, which Trudeau has led as prime minister since 2015. But internal confidence plummeted in mid-December, when Chrystia Freeland, the deputy prime minister and head of finance, unexpectedly resigned citing disagreements over the handling of Trumps proposed 25 percent tariffs on the country an issue that could damage the economy. Read more: Why Justin Trudeau resigned after nine years as Canadian Prime Minister Possible successors: Dominic LeBlanc Monday 6 January 2025 21:30 , Gustaf Kilander The minister of finance and intergovernmental affairs is one of Trudeaus closest allies. During times of disorder, he has been entrusted with politically difficult responsibilities. Having been in parliament for more than 20 years, he previously ran to be the leader of the Liberal Party in 2008, but at the time, Michael Ignatieff came out victorious. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Monday he will resign as prime minister and Liberal Party leader amid growing opposition to his leadership. "The fact is, despite best efforts to work through it, parliament has been paralyzed for months, after what has been the longest session of a minority parliament in Canadian history," Trudeau said in televised remarks outside of his home in Ottawa, Canada's capital city. "I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide competitive process." Trudeau said Canada's parliament will pause until a new leader has been chosen. It will resume in late March, which will allow for a Liberal Party leadership race. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This morning, I advised the governor general that we need a new session of parliament," he said. "She has granted this request, and the House will now be prorogued until March 24." Trudeau, a former high school teacher and son of former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, became prime minister in 2015 after his Liberal Party won a decisive parliamentary majority. The Liberal Party won two more successive elections in 2019 and 2021, but lost the popular vote, requiring him to form a minority government with a left-wing opposition party, leaving his party dependent on allies to pass legislation. In his press conference on Monday Trudeau called for a more unified political environment and suggested changes to Canada's election process that would allow voters to look "for things they have in common instead of polarizing and dividing Canadians against each other." He said failing to amend that process during his term is "one regret particularly" that he has leading up to the next election. Why is Justin Trudeau resigning? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau's leadership has faced significant challenges in the wake of the COVID crisis, leading to a loss of confidence among Canadians from various backgrounds. Key issues such as housing affordability, the rising cost of living and high levels of immigration contributed to widespread disillusionment. This growing frustration led to Trudeau's own Liberal supporters to start calling for his resignation. Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland's abrupt resignation on Dec. 16 further complicated Trudeau's political landscape and threw his Liberal Party into disarray, reviving calls for him to step down. In an explosive resignation letter posted online, Freeland said she and the prime minister had become "at odds about the best path forward for Canada." His housing minister had resigned a week earlier. Asked to address Freeland's departure, which some saw as the catalyst to Trudeau's resignation announcement, the prime minister said he had hoped Freeland would agree to continue in his cabinet as deputy prime minister, "but she chose otherwise." Trudeau declined to share more details about their "private conversations." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau made a last-ditch effort to shuffle his cabinet, hoping to add some stability to his government, but that failed as well. The Toronto Star's editorial board said in an op-ed published Dec. 16 that Trudeau is "seemingly more concerned with his own survival than with the national interest," urging him to walk away "for his legacy, his party and his country." The Toronto Police Association also said in a post on social media Dec. 17 that it had lost faith in Trudeau's government, saying it's "time to resign and leave these critically important public safety issues to someone else." Jagmeet Singh, leader of the New Democratic Party and once an ally of Trudeau, threatened to bring down the Liberals' minority government through a non-confidence vote in the next sitting if he didn't resign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Justin Trudeau failed in the biggest job a Prime Minister has: to work for people, not the powerful," Singh said in an online statement. Trump tariff threat Calls for Trudeau's resignation gained momentum after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's announcement of a potential blanket 25% tariff on Canada and Mexico if they don't take stronger action against illegal immigration and drug trafficking concerns. Trump has targeted Trudeau and Canada in recent days, with the president-elect appearing to joke about Canada becoming the 51st state with Trudeau as governor. Some of Trudeau's critics have suggested he is unable to stand against Trump's economic pressure and bullying. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre called for an early election, while the Bloc Quebecois, leader, Yves-Francois Blanchet, warned that it would be "absolutely irresponsible" to remain in such an unstable situation under Trudeau's leadership. Polls show Trudeau's Liberal Party trailing 20 points behind the Conservatives, with upcoming elections in October. Trump says he plans to change Gulf of Mexico's name to "Gulf of America" Eaton Fire turns deadly, burns more than 10,000 acres New weather update as fires consume parts of Los Angeles County Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation Monday morning, after seeing his popularity drop among Canadians, including among members of his own Liberal Party. I intend to resign as party leader and as prime minister after the party selects its next leader, Trudeau said at a press conference in Ottawa on Monday morning. According to The New York Times, he will stay on as prime minister of Canada and the leader of the Liberal Party until a new leader is chosen by party members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This means Trudeau will lead the country through the first months of Donald J. Trumps new presidency and manage talks over tariffs, according to The New York Times. Trump reacted to the news via social media, continuing his attack on issues between the neighboring nations. Trudeau was first elected to parliament in 2008 and became the leader of the Liberal Party three years later. He became the prime minister of Canada in 2015 and went on to win successive elections in 2019 and 2021. His father, Pierre Elliot Trudeau, also served as prime minister from 1968 to 1979 and from 1980 to 1984, according to CNN. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the press conference, Trudeau announced that Canadas parliament will be suspended until March 24, as a new prime minister is chosen. Parliament has been paralyzed for months after what has been the longest session of a minority parliament in Canadian history, Trudeau said. The new leader will be in place when parliament resumes work, per The New York Times. During his time in office, Trudeau has governed as a progressive, and early on enjoyed popularity. Recently his poll numbers have slumped, with high budget deficits, President-elect Donald Trumps threats of tariffs and a number of other political setbacks, per CNN. How did Donald Trump respond to Trudeaus resignation? After Trudeaus resignation announcement, Trump took to Truth Social to post his response. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State. The United States can no longer suffer the massive Trade Deficits and Subsidies that Canada needs to stay afloat. Justin Trudeau knew this, and resigned. If Canada merged with the U.S., there would be no Tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be TOTALLY SECURE from the threat of the Russian and Chinese Ships that are constantly surrounding them. Together, what a great Nation it would be!!! Trump wrote on Truth Social As previously reported by the Deseret News, in November, Trump announced he will be imposing a 25% tariff on all imports from Mexico and Canada. The two countries are the U.S.s top trading partners. The tariffs would be imposed if the two countries do not put a complete stop to the flow of illegal immigrants and illicit drugs over the border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In late November, Trudeau visited Trump at his private club Mar-a-Lago. The Canadian government has also been working on ways to address Trumps concerns about border security to try to get him to reconsider his tariff threats, per The New York Times. Who will succeed Trudeau? According to CBC, no one has thrown their hat into the ring to take the place of Trudeau officially. But, there have been several names floating around for months. The potential frontrunners for the position include: former finance minister Chrystia Freeland, Foreign Affairs minister Melanie Joly, former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney, former B.C. premier Christy Clark, current Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc and former Liberal MP Frank Baylis. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced he intends to resign as Liberal Party leader and prime minister once a new party leader is determined. "I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide, competitive process," he said Monday from Rideau Cottage in Ottawa. Trudeau will serve as prime minister until March 24. He will then be replaced by a new Liberal Party leader. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Canadian Parliament was supposed to begin its new session of 2025 on Jan. 27, but Trudeau said Monday he asked the governor general to extend and not start a new session of Parliament until March 24. PHOTO: Justin Trudeau (Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press via AP) Trudeau spoke in both English and French during his remarks, and said he shared the news with his children the night prior. "I'm a fighter. Every bone in my body has always told me to fight because I care deeply about Canadians. I care deeply about this country, and I will always be motivated by what is in the best interest of Canadians," the prime minister said. Trudeau said he believes his resignation will "bring the temperature down" and allow Parliament to reset and get back to work "for Canadians." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Parliament needs a reset, I think, needs to calm down a bit and needs to get to work for Canadians," Trudeau said when answering reporters' questions following his announcement. "Removing me as the leader who will fight the next election for the party should decrease the polarization that we have right now," he said. PHOTO: Justin Trudeau, Canada's prime minister, at a plenary session during the Group of 20 (G-20) Leaders' Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Nov. 19, 2024. (Dado Galdieri/Bloomberg via Getty Images) Pierre Poilievre, leader of the opposition Conservative Party, responded to Trudeau's resignation on Monday calling it a "political maneuver" and dismissing it as a "trick." "Nothing has changed," Poilievre said in a video statement posted on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Poilievre argued the entire Liberal Party is equally accountable for the series of poor decisions made during Trudeau's tenure, emphasizing that the issues extend beyond the outgoing prime minister. Poilievre is running to be prime minister. The development comes a month after Canada's deputy prime minister and finance minister, Chrystia Freeland, resigned from Trudeau's Cabinet, a sign of apparent turmoil in his government. Trudeau, 53, the leader of the Liberal Party, began serving as the 23rd prime minister of Canada in 2015. In a letter to the prime minister announcing her resignation, Freeland cited her differences with Trudeau over how to deal with President-elect Donald Trump's tariff threat. MORE: Trump, Trudeau meet at Mar-a-Lago amid tariff threats Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our country today faces a grave challenge," Freeland wrote in the letter, which she shared on social media. "The incoming administration in the United States is pursuing a policy of aggressive economic nationalism, including a threat of 25 percent tariffs." "We need to take that threat extremely seriously," she continued, with actions that included the need for Canada to push back and resist "costly political gimmicks" and "building a true Team Canada response." Trump has proposed new tariffs on imports from Canada -- the United States' third largest supplier of agricultural products, according to the Department of Agriculture -- as well as China and Mexico. PHOTO: President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau shake hands during a meeting in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, Feb. 13, 2017. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images, FILES) Trudeau traveled to Mar-a-Lago, Trump's private club in Florida, last month to meet with the president-elect. Trudeau told reporters at the time that his conversation with Trump was "excellent" but did not respond to any additional questions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump on Monday said Trudeau resigned, in part, because of the tariffs. "Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State. The United States can no longer suffer the massive Trade Deficits and Subsidies that Canada needs to stay afloat. Justin Trudeau knew this, and resigned," Trump wrote on social media. The White House on Monday said President Joe Biden is "grateful" for "stalwart friend" Trudeau's partnership. "Prime Minister Trudeau has been a stalwart friend of the United States. During his decade leading the Canadian government, we have worked closely together on the full range of issues facing our countries and the world as close allies, neighbors and as members of the G7," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters aboard Air Force One. "The president is grateful for the prime minister's partnership on all of that and for his commitment to defending North America from the geopolitical threats of the 21st century and the work we have done together to sustain North America's status as the world's most economically competitive region." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As fellow democracies, we stand with the prime minister and the Canadian people as they select a new Liberal Party leader and organize a new government," Jean-Pierre added. PHOTO: Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau shakes hands with Britain's Prince Charles as Queen Elizabeth looks on during a reception in the San Anton Palace in Attard, Malta, Nov. 27, 2015, at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. (John Stillwell/Pool via Reuters, FILES) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In her letter last month, Freeland said Trudeau told her he no longer wanted her to serve as finance minister and offered her another position in the Cabinet. "Upon reflection, I have concluded that the only honest and viable path is for me to resign from the Cabinet," she said in the letter, which noted that she looks forward to continuing to work with her colleagues as a Liberal member of Parliament and plans to run again for her seat in Toronto in the next federal election. MORE: Trump's tariff plan could raise prices, blow up his own trade deal with Mexico and Canada Dominic LeBlanc, the minister of intergovernmental affairs, will now also serve as the new finance minister after Freeland stepped down from the role. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her resignation comes as Trudeau's housing minister, Sean Fraser, also announced he will not seek reelection for personal reasons, saying he wants to spend more time with his family. The next federal election must be held by Oct. 20. Support for Trudeau's party has declined steadily for months, with the Liberals currently at their lowest level of support in years, according to CBC News. The Conservative Party holds a 21-point lead over the Liberals leading up to the federal election, according to CBC News. Trudeau's father, former Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau, served as the prime minister of Canada from 1968 to 1979 and from 1980 to 1984, before retiring from politics before the next election. ABC News' Aleem Agha, Ellie Kaufman and Fritz Farrow contributed to this report. Justin Trudeau says he'll resign as prime minister of Canada originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Justin Trudeau, 53, announced that he's stepping down as the leader of Canada's Liberal Party. The party will choose a new leader. Once that happens, he'll step down as prime minister, he said. Trudeau has served since 2015 but faced repeated calls to step down in recent weeks. Justin Trudeau announced Monday that he would step down as prime minister of Canada once his party chose a new leader. "This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if I'm having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election," Trudeau said at a press conference in Ottawa. He said that he would step down as the leader of Canada's Liberal Party and that he would cease to be prime minister once his party selected a new leader "through a robust, nationwide, competitive process." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau, 53, has been Canada's prime minister since 2015. His nine-year tenure is coming to an abrupt end following weeks of turmoil within his party. He faced repeated calls from his party colleagues to step down after the Liberal Party lost three by-elections last year. In December, Trudeau's deputy prime minister, Chrystia Freeland, announced her sudden resignation from his Cabinet. Freeland, who was also the finance minister, said that Trudeau had offered her another Cabinet position but that she decided to step down because it was "the only honest and viable path for me." She had clashed with Trudeau over his push for increased spending and how Canada should handle the incoming Trump administration. In November, President-elect Donald Trump said he planned to impose a 25% tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since then, Trump has continued to taunt Trudeau by referring to him as Canada's "governor" and has joked about making Canada the 51st US state. "The Great State of Canada is stunned as the Finance Minister resigns, or was fired, from her position by Governor Justin Trudeau," Trump said of Freeland's resignation in a Truth Social post last month. Shortly after Freeland's resignation, Jagmeet Singh, an opposition politician and the New Democratic Party's leader, said his party would bring a vote of no confidence against Trudeau when Parliament sat again in January. Singh's party entered into a confidence-and-supply agreement with Trudeau's minority government in March 2022 but withdrew from it in September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I called for Justin Trudeau to resign, and he should," Singh wrote in an open letter on December 20. Canada's next general election must be held by October. Read the original article on Business Insider The Most Rev Justin Welby spent his final day as head of the Anglican Church entertaining guests at Lambeth Palace. During his last day in office on Monday, which falls on the feast of Epiphany and is also his 69th birthday, the 105th Archbishop of Canterbury led a series of festivities at his official residence. The Telegraph understands that the day of events for friends, staff and former colleagues was billed as a thank you from and celebration of the outgoing Archbishop and his wife, Caroline Welby. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The celebrations included lunch in the Great Hall and afternoon tea in the historic Guard Room followed by a more intimate evening gathering rounding off the packed agenda. The Archbishop announced he would relinquish his post last November, after an independent report found he failed in his personal and moral duty to report John Smyth, the Church of Englands most prolific child abuser, to police. Sorrowful reflection But Mr Welby has been criticised for celebrating his time in the role, with one victim of Smyth saying: I find it extraordinary that the Archbishop thinks it appropriate to celebrate his time in office. Presumably at relatively enormous expense to the Church, the Archbishop lunches, while victims wait. Might the time have been better spent actually delivering his testimony to victims as he promised? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today should be a time for sorrowful reflection, not a celebration of his flawed time in office. The abuse survivor queried whether any of the victims let down by the Church had been invited to the festivities, asking: Will those who have been harmed by the actions and inaction of the Church of England be represented? The outgoing Archbishop was due to spend much of the day dining and entertaining guests in Lambeth Palaces grand halls. He was making the most of the official residence before the Most Rev Stephen Cottrell, the Archbishop of York, assumes temporary leadership of the Church on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Farewell celebrations began at 10.30am, with guests gathering first in the Guard Room, a grand 14th-century hall originally used as the Archbishops principal audience chamber. At the end of the festivities the Archbishop lay down his crozier, symbolically ending his 11-year tenure as head of the Church of England - Neil Turner/Lambeth Palace Overlooking the main courtyard, the room once served as a mustering point for the Archbishops private army but since the 19th century has been used to host official functions. It is understood that as many as 120 guests could attend the palace over the course of the day to celebrate and bid farewell to the outgoing Archbishop. Earlier on Monday former Church staff and current senior employees were seen arriving at Lambeth Palace, including William Nye, the secretary general to the Archbishops council and General Synod. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the Church of Englands most influential yet little-known figures, Mr Nye, 58, has himself faced calls to resign, with some victims claiming the Archbishops right-hand man mismanaged changes to national safeguarding processes. Around midday, he attended a Eucharist in the palace chapel. Built in the 13th-century early English Gothic style, the chapel was extensively restored after a Second World War blast destroyed its roof and windows. Lunch in the Great Hall Festivities continued after the service, with guests attending a lunch in the Great Hall, another chamber to have been repeatedly rebuilt since the 13th century. The spacious and airy great room, with its impressive oak hammer-beam roof, houses one of the Churchs largest collections of manuscripts, books, and historical documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the meal, guests were due to return to the Guard Room for afternoon tea. The light refreshment was to be followed with evensong, where the Archbishop was due to lay down his crozier, the ceremonial staff carried by bishops, symbolically ending his 11-year tenure. The celebrations were to conclude with a more intimate evening event and dinner, finishing at around 9pm. It is understood that the day was structured predominantly around the services, rather than being focused on the Archbishops birthday. The majority of guests attending for lunch, afternoon tea and dinner were understood to be Church staff. However, critics argue that the festivities exemplified the Archbishops failure to gauge public sentiment, a lack of sensitivity previously evident in his valedictory House of Lords speech and the five-day wait before resigning after the Churchs handling of the Smyth abuse scandal was exposed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The abuse victim said: As with his speech at the House of Lords, Welby cannot just go quietly. Justin Welby spent his final day entertaining guests in Lambeth Palaces grand halls - Reuters/Luke MacGregor Only a month ago, he was forced to apologise for appearing to make light of the Churchs serious safeguarding failures during his final Lords speech, during which he cracked several jokes and suggested that he might not have been responsible for failing to stop Smyth after all. Smyth, a barrister and Christian youth camp leader, abused up to 130 boys across three countries before his death in 2018 in Cape Town. A report led by Keith Makin, a former social services director, concluded last November that Justin Welby held a personal and moral responsibility to pursue concerns raised with him about the serial predator in 2013, whatever the policies at play at the time required. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesman for Lambeth Palace said: The Archbishop of Canterbury is spending his final day in office privately at Lambeth Palace. He will attend Morning Prayer, lunchtime Eucharist, Evensong, and conclude the day with a service of Compline. The Archbishop will be joined by current staff and some friends and former colleagues across the day so he can thank them for their work and say farewell. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) A juvenile has been arrested in the truck stop robbery from last week. Robbery at truck stop leaves employee injured Two people were attempting to steal alcohol from the Cubbys Convenience store on West 12th Street, last Thursday when one of them stabbed a clerk in the stomach. Police say a juvenile is in custody in connection with the stabbing. They are still looking for the second person who was involved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Vice President Kamala Harris today will have the task of announcing the certification of the winner of the presidential election, Donald Trump. Coming on the fourth anniversary of the Trump-fueled riot and storming of the U.S. Capitol, Harris in a new video presented an implicit contrast to the way that she is handling her constitutional duty. More from Deadline The peaceful transfer of power is one of the most fundamental principles of American democracy, Harris said. As much as any other principle, it is what distinguishes our system of government from monarchy or tyranny. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today at the United States Capitol, I will perform my constitutional duty as vice president of the United States to certify the results of the 2024 election. This duty is a sacred obligation, one I will uphold, guided by love of country, loyalty to our Constitution, and my unwavering faith in the American people. The electoral vote result was 312-226. Trump won the popular vote 49.9% to 48.4% for Harris. Harris position is not that unusual. Past vice presidents have presided over the certification of results of a presidential race they lost, including Al Gore in 2001, Hubert Humphrey in 1969 and Richard Nixon in 1961. Harris did not directly mention the January 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol, but said, As we have seen, our democracy can be fragile, and it is up to then each one of us to stand up for our most cherished principles, and to make sure, in America, our government always remains of the people, by the people and for the people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is no indication that any Democrat plans to object to the certification of the results for Trump at a joint session of Congress today, as 147 Republicans did four years ago for Joe Biden, including the current speaker, Mike Johnson, even in the aftermath of the attack. The Capitol itself is on high alert today as the certification is designated as a national special high security event. Unlike four years ago, the grounds are surrounded by security fencing, while any protests are expected to be muted by a winter storm that hit D.C. overnight. The federal government, in fact, is closed for the snow day. Biden published an op ed in The Washington Post marking January 6. Biden wrote, An unrelenting effort has been underway to rewrite even erase the history of that day. To tell us we didnt see what we all saw with our own eyes. To dismiss concerns about it as some kind of partisan obsession. To explain it away as a protest that just got out of hand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is not what happened. In time, there will be Americans who didnt witness the Jan. 6 riot firsthand but will learn about it from footage and testimony of that day, from what is written in history books and from the truth we pass on to our children. We cannot allow the truth to be lost. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Today, Kamala Harris has to certify the results of the vote she lost: It's January 6, time to certify the election results (no shamans needed). The person who presides over this process is the vice president, which means that Harris is in one of the most awkward positions possible. Whatever kind of day you have, Harris is having a worse one! Al Gore had to do this back in 2001, and Richard Nixon in 1961, so it's not the first time in American history that a veep has been forced to carry out the office's constitutional duties in this way. "This is the first time in 100 years that a candidate for the presidency announced the result of an election in which he was defeated and announced the victory of his opponent," said Nixon at the time, saying that he did not think "we could have a more striking and eloquent example of the stability of our constitutional system." (The previous vice president to find himself in that position? John Breckinridge, two months before the Civil War.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "In our campaigns, no matter how hard they may be, no matter how close the election may turn out to be, those who lose accept the verdict and support those who win," said Nixon. Kumbaya. Let's hope Harris can channel some of this energy today. Following the chaos four years ago, the government adopted new rules in 2022 making it more difficult to object to a state's certification. Though members of Congress may still choose to object, their statement "needs to be in writing and signed by one-fifth of the members of the House (the lower chamber) and one-fifth of the Senate (the upper chamber)," per the BBC. The election results have not been widely contested this time, and today's proceedings are likely to be drama-free. So it begins: Honduras' president (and premiere charter city antagonist) Xiomara Castro has threatened to expel the U.S. military from the country if President-elect Donald Trump follows through on his deportation scheme. "Faced with a hostile attitude of mass expulsion of our brothers, we would have to consider a change in our policies of cooperation with the United States, especially in the military arena," said Castro on Wednesday. "Without paying a cent for decades, they maintain military bases in our territory, which in this case would lose all reason to exist in Honduras," continued Castro. I suppose if you exclude the $190 million in foreign aid doled out to Honduras each year, Washington doesn't pay "a cent." And if you ignore all the trade between the Honduras and the U.S.its top trading partner and largest destination for exportsthen I suppose there's no reason to maintain the relationship. There is also something strange about opposing your own citizens coming home, even under such coercive circumstances. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pew estimates that, in 2022, about half a million Hondurans were living as undocumented immigrants in the U.S.; that's about 5 percent of the country's population (10 million). Castro could feasibly be worried about economic ruin that might come from loss of remittances, which at this scale could affect an awful lot of familiessome estimates say one in four. But there's also the question of whether undocumented immigrants sending home remittances is a good, viable long-term strategy for the country lifting itself up out of poverty. Of course, the U.S. has a long and dirty history of inserting itself into Central American politics. It's not on its face a terrible idea to ask why our own country maintains military bases within Honduras, ostensibly for running humanitarian aid missions of questionable efficacy. Castro is probably all bluster, and we don't yet know what form Trump's deportation mission will take. But get ready for a lot more of this variety of back-and-forth between Trump and world leaders pissed off by his deportation plans, or his tariff plans, or both (if you're Mexico). Scenes from New York: New York City's new congestion pricing, which makes entering Manhattan below 60th St. by car more expensive, has generated the most beautiful Reddit threads and TikTok schemes. I know many libertarians are cool with congestion pricing, but I am not, as I do not want to take the Death Train. Regardless, I'll be following this tracker over the coming weeks because I'm curious about whether traffic volumes will be substantially altered. QUICK HITS There's a new episode of Just Asking Questions with nuclear influencer/Brazilian model/all-around cool gal Isabelle Boemeke! Last week we had Byrne Hobart (more here) and next week we have Tyler Cowen, all truly awesome guests! Please subscribe to our new channel, we're so close to 4,000! Good riddance to Justin Trudeau? Corpse President strikes again: "President Joe Biden is indefinitely blocking offshore oil and gas development in more than 625 million acres of US coastal waters, warning that drilling there is simply 'not worth the risks' and 'unnecessary' to meet the nation's energy needs," reports Bloomberg. We've known all along that he likes high gas prices, but I didn't know he also wanted to preserve them for years to come. "This past fall, the Seaside School District became one of the first in Oregon to ban cell phones for both middle and high schoolers, forcing kids to lock their devices in pouches near the school entrance until the end of the day," reports The Free Press. "Seaside has joined thousands of schools nationwide in recently banning smartphones, as a growing body of evidence shows they're linked to falling test scores and rising rates of teen mental illness. This January, just over two million students will return to phone-free schools as statewide bans go into effect in Virginia and South Carolina. The following month, the Los Angeles Unified School District, the second-largest in the nation, will join them." The very tragic story, courtesy of The New York Times, of the woman who was burned to death on the F train in Brooklyn last month. In case you missed it: Semafor asked a bunch of pundits what they got wrong in 2024. The responses are illuminating, in part because about half were genuinely reflective while about half were obtuse. Anyway, thislike publishing the votes of entire newsroomsshould be standard practice. The post Kamala Harris' Long Day appeared first on Reason.com. Four years after attempting to overturn the results of the election, leading to a deadly attack on the U.S. Capitol, Donald Trump was certified as the winner of the 2024 presidential contest. In a heavily fortified Capitol complex, a joint session of Congress gathered Monday to listen as the electoral vote results of each state were read off. More from Deadline Presiding over the session was the president of the Senate, Vice President Kamala Harris, in the position of announcing the winner of an election that she lost. Harris kept a slight smile as she read off the tally, 312-226. Republicans cheered for Trump, and Democrats responded with a large ovation for her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On CNN, Dana Bash noted the heavy security today, and that so many that backed Trumps challenge of the 2020 results were still present and actually now in positions of leadership. They include Mike Johnson, who is now speaker of the House. They are in charge because the voters put them there, Bash said. The certification is typically a pro forma, ceremonial process. But four years ago, Trump and his allies orchestrated an effort to challenge the results with false claims that the election was rigged. As some Republicans raised objections to the results, that delayed the certification. Within the hour, rioters breached security at the Capitol, stormed inside and ransacked offices and sought out lawmakers. Congress ultimately certified the results for Joe Biden early the next morning. A number of Republicans, including Lindsey Graham and Mitch McConnell, angrily spoke out against Trump, only to endorse him in the most recent presidential race. The House impeached Trump the week after the 2021 attack, but the Senate declined to convict him the next month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, no objections were raised to the results, and the session itself lasted just over 30 minutes. Harris stuck to the script. This announcement of the state of the vote by the president of the Senate shall be a sufficient declaration of the persons elected president and vice president of the United States, each for a term beginning on the 20th day of January, 2025, and shall be entered together with the list of the votes on the journals of the House and the Senate. Thank you very much. She then adjourned the session. Later, Harris made a brief statement. Today, Americas democracy stood, she said. .@VP Kamala Harris after Electoral College Vote Count Certification: "Today was obviously a very important day. It was about what should be the norm and what the American people should take for grantedAmerica's democracy is only as strong as our willingness to fight for it." pic.twitter.com/TC3BwU48BY CSPAN (@cspan) January 6, 2025 Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Vice President Kamala Harris doesnt seem to want the nation repeating history, particularly the insurrection that plagued the certification of the 2020 election. (Watch the video below.) So in a social media address to the nation Monday, hours before she is to preside over the certification of Donald Trumps victory over her, she offered a stark reminder: As we have seen, our democracy can be fragile. Harris was presumably referring to the Trump-inspired mob that laid siege to the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, to stop the democratic process of officially validating the results for the rightful victor. Four years ago, it was Joe Biden, despite the lies that Trump and his allies pushed about alleged rigging (and continue to do so). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were even calls on that dark day to hang her predecessor, former Vice President Mike Pence, for not caving to Trumps dubious command for Pence to disrupt the proceedings. Now its Trumps turn to assume office again. Harris took to X, formerly called Twitter, to reflect on the constitutional process, which is expected to happen Monday without the chaos and violence from four years ago. Here are her words in full: The peaceful transfer of power is one of the most fundamental principles of American democracy. As much as any other principle, it is what distinguishes our system of government from monarchy or tyranny. Today at the United States Capitol, I will perform my constitutional duty as vice president of the United States to certify the results of the 2024 election. This duty is a sacred obligation, one I will uphold, guided by love of country, loyalty to our Constitution, and my unwavering faith in the American people. As we have seen, our democracy can be fragile, and it is up to, then, each one of us to stand up for our most cherished principles. And to make sure that in America, our government always remains of the people, by the people, and for the people. May God bless you, and may God bless the United States of America. Today, I will perform my constitutional duty as Vice President to certify the results of the 2024 election. This duty is a sacred obligation one I will uphold guided by love of country, loyalty to our Constitution, and unwavering faith in the American people. pic.twitter.com/w21HzdNxGs Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) January 6, 2025 Related... WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) The Kansas Department of Transportation advises all motorists to avoid non-emergency travel, especially in northeast and northcentral Kansas, as dangerous blizzard conditions persist. All state highways in Marshall, Nemaha, Brown, Doniphan, Riley, Pottawatomie, Jackson, Atchison, Wabaunsee, Shawnee, Jefferson, Leavenworth, Wyandotte, Douglas, Johnson, Lyon, Osage, Jewell, Republic, Washington, Mitchell, Cloud, Clay, Lincoln, Ottawa, Ellsworth, Saline, Dickinson, Geary, Morris, McPherson, Marion and Chases counties are closed, including Interstate 70. Before 10 p.m. Sunday KDOT also closed highways in Reno, Harvey and Butler counties due to impassable conditions and low visibility. Motorists currently traveling in affected areas are advised to adjust travel plans immediately. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a major, statewide winter weather event, Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed said. We appreciate the cooperation of the public in staying off the roads so our crews can focus on reopening routes as quickly and as safely as possible. KDOT is out in force working diligently in these challenging conditions. KDOT crews are working to reopen roads, with priority given to major routes. Progress will depend on weather conditions. If you are currently stranded, call *47 for Kansas Highway Patrol Dispatch and provide your location. KDOT encourages motorists to follow the guidance of emergency personnel and call for assistance to determine the best course of action. KDOT also advises motorists who must travel to have emergency kits on hand with clothes, blankets, food, water and other supplies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For updates on highway conditions across Kansas, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV. It's voting time again and you can vote for the Ponce Law girls athlete of the week in the Nashville area for Dec. 30-Jan. 4 Here are this week's candidates. Dasha Biriuk, Webb School - Bell Buckle: Biriuk had 20 points, seven assists and seven steals in a 76-24 win over BGA last Friday. She had 13 points, eight assists, five steals and three blocks in a win over Brentwood last Tuesday. Bailey Blair, Richland: Blair led with 29 points in a 54-51 win over Lauderdale County (AL) last Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jane Ellis, CPA: Ellis led with 16 points in a 51-38 win over Lipscomb Academy last Friday. The Tennessean athlete of the week presented by Ponce Law Samantha Lee, Page: Lee added 20 points in the win as Page knocked off Marshall County (Kentucky), 67-51 on Saturday. Lee added 18 points and had two 3-pointers in a 51-42 win over Oakland last Monday. Ella Ryan, Brentwood: Ryan led with 31 points, including five 3-pointers in a 60-53 loss to Webb last Tuesday. She also had 31 points in a 69-58 win over FRA last Monday. Ella Claire Tharpe, Nolensville: Tharpe had 15 points and five 3-pointers in a 67-23 win over Siegel last Friday. Reghan Williams, Ezell-Harding: Williams had 21 points and four steals in a 50-40 win over Liberty Creek last Friday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vote before the poll closes at noon on Thursday. Click on the image below to make your selection. Reach sports writer George Robinson at georgerobinsontheleafchronicle.com and on the X platform (formerly Twitter) @Cville_Sports. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Vote for the Ponce Law girls athlete of the week in Nashville area A Kentucky man is suing the police, claiming he was arrested in retaliation for shouting at a group of officers from an apartment balcony. In a complaint filed last month, Brandon Rettig alleges that he was arrested on bogus public intoxication charges after he angered the officers, who violated his First and Fourth Amendment rights. According to the lawsuit, on June 8, 2024, Brandon Rettig was at his girlfriend's apartment in Newport, Kentucky, when a team of police officers responded to an unrelated incident outside the building. From the balcony, Rettig shouted at the officers. In a later interview, Rettig claimed to have shouted "go get 'em boys" at the officers. The lawsuit insists that while the officers were angered by the comments, "Rettig did not utter fighting words or threatened to harm anyone." The suit claims that soon after Rettig made the comments, Officer Ronald Lalumandier shouted up to him, "Keep it up, I'll take your ass to jail," adding "I got keys to your apartment." Three police officers, including Lalumandier, then entered the apartment building using a key card, which Lalumandier had access to as a former tenant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to body camera footage, the three officers confronted Rettig in the hallway of the apartment building and arrested him after a short argument. "Are you serious? I live here," Rettig told the officers. "Yes, 100 percent. We told you out there, you didn't listen," responded one of the officers. "You shouldn't be doing what you're doingdoesn't mean you can act the way you were acting." Rettig was taken into police custody and charged with public intoxication, despite the fact thatas the suit notesthe hallway was not public property. Although the charges were later dismissed, Rettig filed a lawsuit against the officers in December, arguing that his arrest was not due to public intoxication, but because he angered the officers by shouting at them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Rettig allegedly made critical statements to the Officer Defendants that those officers did not appreciate. This critical speech is protected by the First Amendment," the complaint states. "In response, Defendants retaliated against Rettig, seized him, and arrested him in retaliation for protected speech." "Speaking from a balcony isn't a crime. Drinking a beer in your living room isn't a crime," Robert Thompson, Rettig's attorney, told WCPO 9 News, a Cincinnati, Ohio-based local news station. "And just because a cop was offended because of some language doesn't give him the power to arrest you." The post Kentucky Cops Arrest Man for Shouting at Them appeared first on Reason.com. DUNNVILLE, Ky. (FOX 56) A call about a chicken-fighting event led Kentucky State Police (KSP) troopers to charge 54 people with animal cruelty in Dunnville on Saturday. KSP trooper injured in Hart County crash on I-65 during severe winter weather According to a news release, just after 11 a.m. on Saturday, troopers at KSP Post 15 got a call about an organized chicken-fighting event being held at a property on Riffe Creek Road. State police said troopers arrived at the property and shut down the event. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 54 people were charged at the scene with second-degree cruelty to animals, per law enforcement. Read more of the latest Kentucky news The animal cruelty charges were reportedly filed with the Casey County District Court. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. STORY: :: Warning: Graphic content Rights groups and relatives have accused Kenyan authorities of a cover-up of dozens of alleged police killings, unexplained abductions and illegal detentions related to these anti-government protests... ... known as the Gen-Z protests because of the young people involved. :: Kajiado, Kenya :: July 15, 2024 The body of 19-year-old Charles Owino lies in the street - killed by a gunshot to the head according to an autopsy report seen by Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But police recorded his death as a road accident in the morgue logbook, his brother told Reuters. The National Police Service did not reply to questions about four such cases examined by Reuters. :: July 22, 2024 The battered body of another protester, Denzel Omondi, was found in a pond at an abandoned quarry on Nairobi's outskirts, nine days after he disappeared. The autopsy report, seen by Reuters, detailed hyperinflated lungs as well as bruises on his head, neck, forearm and knees. It recorded his death as drowning, but "something else happened" first, the family said. They said Kenya's IPOA watchdog, which probes cases of police brutality, has promised to investigate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Omondi's mother, Jedida Ombura: "He went to the parliament during demonstrations, and he was one of the Gen-Z who went there following the video which came up on social media, and after that the boy went missing." Reuters spoke to three police officers who work in a unit deployed during protests. They described police covering their tracks by mischaracterizing deaths caused by officers as "accidents," "drownings" or "mob justice." Thousands of young Kenyans took to the streets against tax hikes and political corruption from late June to December. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has said 42 people were killed in a police response that rights groups say involved firing live rounds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kenyas National Commission on Human Rights, which is government-funded, also recorded 82 enforced disappearances, 29 of which remain unaccounted for. The officers who spoke to Reuters about their work requested anonymity to speak about the subject. One policeman described working undercover during the protests to organise abductions. "Me, as an officer, I'll be sent there to pretend. I'm there but undercover. Here is the person, take their number. I can even send him or her money and talk about going back for protests the next day. At this point. I would have got them." The police did not respond to questions about these allegations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bob Njagi is a high-profile rights activist who took part in the protests. He said he was held for a month, sustaining these injuries. "During these 30 days, I was only fed once a day, a very small meal of Ugali (corn flour meal) and cabbage and a cup of tea in the morning. I was allowed to take a shower once a week, every seven days, but my handcuffs remained intact both day and night." :: September 24, 2024 Otsieno Namwaya of Human Rights Watch says Kenyan police are required to take those arrested to stations then court. "What we are seeing are people in plain clothes, hiding their faces, basically covering their faces. They abduct people in a very violent, very threatening, and scary way, and then they don't even take them to police stations." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement :: Nairobi, Kenya The offices of Kenyan President William Ruto, his deputy president and the interior ministry did not respond to requests for comment. In a late December speech, Ruto acknowledged instances of excessive and extrajudicial actions by members of the security services. BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) The Kern County District Attorneys Office has extended a plea offer to a boy who was 13 when charged in connection with the shooting death of a man in October. The defense attorney representing Dylan Fermin Flores said during a hearing Monday that she needs time to discuss the offer with her client. Were trying to help out: County officials effort for power in destroyed mobile home park Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The terms were not revealed in court. Due to his age, Flores can be kept in custody at most until his 25th birthday. Judge Marcus Cuper scheduled a follow-up hearing later this month. Flores and Lance Burnett, 18, were arrested in the Oct. 27 shooting death of Ryan Dwayne Kephart in a large field near South Washington Street and East Belle Terrace. Police said the teens started a fight with Kephart, who was homeless. Kephart defended himself with a tree branch. Never miss a story: Make KGET.com your homepage Burnett went home and retrieved a gun while Flores, armed with a knife, made sure Kephart didnt leave, according to court documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kephart tried to run, but they chased him and Burnett fired several times, killing him, Flores told police. Burnett is charged with first-degree murder and has a preliminary hearing scheduled Jan. 30 in Superior Court. He faces a life term in prison if convicted. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A Russian attack caused damage to Kherson State University's building. The university's walls and classrooms were damaged, windows and doors shattered. Source: Oleksandr Spivakovskyi, Rector of Kherson State University; Oleksandr Prokudin, Head of Kherson Oblast Military Administration Details: The video shows mounds of bricks and other debris on the site of the educational institution, which in some areas has massive breaches in the walls. Other parts of the building were less severely damaged, with windows and doors smashed in the Russian bombardment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oleksandr Spivakovskyi, the university's rector, stated that the attack destroyed the gallery of prior heads of Kherson State University, which has a 107-year history. Quote from Oleksandr Spivakovskyi: "I know about Nazism from history. I feel the effects of Ruscism at my alma mater. Even in the gallery of rectors who have shaped its 107-year glory. But what matters most is people's lives." More details: Oleksandr Prokudin added that no one was injured in the attack on the university's territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: On 5 January, Russian troops attacked Kherson, in particular its suburbs, Korabelnyi and Dniprovskyi districts. As of the evening of 5 January, six people were reported injured in the attack on Kherson, and one was killed in Komyshany. In addition, at least 22 civilian objects were damaged in the oblast, including houses, administrative buildings, garages and vehicles. Oleksandr Prokudin said that the Russian military had targeted critical and social infrastructure, as well as residential areas. Kherson Oblast Prosecutor's Office reports that the Russian troops used artillery, mortars and drones against the population of the region. Law enforcers have launched an investigation into war crimes under Article 438 (1) and (2) of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! Flavored nitrous oxide is the newest drug to sweep America's youth and it sounds like folks are already developing debilitating addictions and alarming side effects. As New York Magazine reports, the "Galaxy Gas" brand has become synonymous with the latest generation of nitrous oxide that's readily available at smoke shops and online. With longer highs, candy-esque flavors, and little legal restriction, the chemical formerly known as "whippets" or "nitrous" involves huffing the gas into one's lungs to achieve a brief head rush. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though whippets have long been popular among hippie-ish subcultures, the COVID-19 lockdowns of 2020 and 2021 breathed new life into the market for the barely-regulated chemical as it's gone viral on TikTok. As more and more people began to seek out the escape provided by a nitrous rush, however, chronic users are reporting all kinds of freaky side effects. An employee who works at an Atlanta-area smoke shop called Cloud 9, which is run by a family that created the Galaxy Gas brand and owned it until October of 2024, told NYMag that he'd see people come in multiple times a day to purchase canisters and even tanks of nitrous. Upon returning, many would have limps, tremors, and be slurring their words. Eventually, the employee began lying to customers and telling them the location was sold out of Galaxy Gas even when they weren't, out of fear of someone hurting themselves or others while using the drug a salient concern given that last month, a Georgia driver was sued for fatally running down a cyclist while huffing the branded gas. Nitrous oxide has generally fallen into the category of drugs seen as "risky, but survivable in moderation." But some combination of availability and adulterants seem to be pushing it into more harmful territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For Kiersytn Milligan, a 25-year-old tattoo artist from Texas who got hooked on nitrous, the results were almost as dire. After encountering the drug at a party, the young woman soon began using it all the time on her own so much so that her local smoke shop developed a deal for her where she would get one tank free after purchasing five. "My life consisted of huffing whippets alone 24 hours a day," Milligan told NYMag. "I couldnt breathe without it. If I had about five minutes without it, my heart would start palpitating." Not long after getting deep into nitrous use, the tattoo artist began to lose her hair. Later, she lost the ability to walk and control her bodily functions, including bowel movements, and had frequent seizures. After four car accidents and a total loss of motor control, Milligan's grandmother took her to the hospital, where she was met with tragic news: she was paralyzed, and had blood clots in her lungs and a cyst in her brain. According to Grace, another former Cloud 9 franchise employee who spoke to NYMag using a pseudonym, the bigger Galaxy Gas got, the weirder things became in the shop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The people that are coming in asking for it, theyre getting younger and younger," she told the magazine. "You could see that they were out of it; you could barely understand what they were saying." As NYMag explains, Galaxy Gas was quietly sold to an undisclosed buyer last fall after a rash of bad press about its explosive popularity and side effects. And there are still lots of other dupes available online and in stores, which means that so-called "gas heads" can still get their fix of the damaging chemical, even if it's not from their preferred brand. More on galaxy gas: Astrophysicist Surprised to Learn Why Her TikTok on "Galaxy Gas" Was Suddenly Blowing Up Police have identified 46-year-old Joseph Donahue as the man who was shot and killed Saturday night in Charlestown. Police responded to the area of 140 Main St. around 10:30 pm for a report of a pedestrian struck. They found Donahue lying in the parking lot of a 7-Eleven. They determined he had been shot. EMTs pronounced him dead on the scene. Shannon Lundin said she grew up with Donahue in Charlestown, and have remained lifelong friends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was a kind, loving, vibrant soul, Lundin told Boston 25 over the phone Sunday. No matter how much he struggled, he always tried. He was a very, very loyal person and he believed in sticking up for those that he loved, and sticking up for things he believed in. Lundin, a spokesperson for the family, organized a GoFundMe to pay for Donahues funeral. She says the community is still looking for answers. She added, [Donahue] was down by the store. Some sort of altercation happened. I dont know if he knew the person or not. The one constant thing Im hearing is that everything was caught on security cameras and the police know who theyre looking for. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police on Monday morning announced an arrest in connection with the shooting. Lundin continued, When it comes to whoever did this, I really have no words to be honest. The Boston Police Departments Homicide Unit is investigating the incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Boston Police Homicide Unit at 617-343-4470. Community members wishing to assist in this investigation anonymously can do so by calling the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS or by texting the word TIP to CRIME (27463). This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW A little rain couldn't keep King Charles and Queen Camilla away from Sunday church at Sandringham, their first appearance of the year as his cancer treatment continues. On Jan. 5, the King, 76, and Queen, 77, braved the rain to attend a Divine Service at St. Mary Magdalene Church on the Sandringham estate, and seemed to be in sunny spirits despite the downpour. The King was seen greeting Graham Usher, Bishop of Norwich, who preached the sermon at church that day, while the Queen carried a clear umbrella. She may have picked up the fashion hack from the late Queen Elizabeth, who memorably said, "I need to be seen to be believed." King Charles and Queen Camilla's trip to church on the Sandringham estate was their first joint outing of the new year as the King's cancer treatment continues. Shortly before Christmas, palace sources said that the sovereign's treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer would extend into 2025, "moving in a positive direction" as a "managed condition." Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty King Charles greets Graham Usher, Bishop of Norwich at Sandringham on Jan. 5, 2025. King Charles greets Graham Usher, Bishop of Norwich at Sandringham on Jan. 5, 2025. Related: King Charles Reflects on Family's Health Struggles and 'Uncertainties and Anxieties of Illness' in Emotional Christmas Speech Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "His treatment has been moving in a positive direction and as a managed condition the treatment cycle will continue into next year," palace sources said on Dec. 20. Plans are underway for trips around the U.K. and abroad penciled into his schedule for the coming year, similar to the end of last year. 2024 was a year unlike any other for the royal family, as King Charles and Kate Middleton were both diagnosed with cancer and began treatment. The sovereign was first hospitalized for a procedure to treat an enlarged prostate last January, during which "a separate issue of concern" was identified and later diagnosed as cancer. A spokesman clarified he does not have prostate cancer, and his treatment began on Feb. 5. Paul Marriott/PA Images via Getty King Charles leaves church at Sandringham on Jan. 5, 2025. King Charles leaves church at Sandringham on Jan. 5, 2025. The King postponed public-facing engagements (while continuing to work behind the scenes) for three months after on doctors' advice, and resumed forward-facing duties in late April with an emotional visit to a cancer hospital in London with Queen Camilla. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sovereign packed a busy itinerary into the months that followed, from leading the royal family at Trooping the Colour in June, appearing at the State Opening of Parliament in July and embarking on a major tour to Australia and Samoa in October. He also hosted two incoming state visits (from Japan in June and Qatar in December), made engagements around the U.K. and continued tradition by hosting the royal family for Christmas at Sandringham on Dec. 25. The British royals have celebrated Christmas at Sandringham, their private estate in the Norfolk countryside, for generations, and King Charles and Queen Camilla are extending their stay into the new year like Queen Elizabeth used to do. King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrive for a Sunday church service at St Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham King Charles and Queen Camilla arrive for church at St. Mary Magdalene at Sandringham on Jan. 5, 2025. King Charles and Queen Camilla arrive for church at St. Mary Magdalene at Sandringham on Jan. 5, 2025. Related: King Charles and Queen Camilla Lead Royal Family Christmas Walk After Challenging Year It was significant to see the royal family out in full force on Christmas morning for the classic walk to and from church at St. Mary Magdalene at the end of a year Prince William previously described as "brutal" from "a personal family point of view" in light of his wife and father's cancer diagnoses. (Princess Kate shared in March 2024 that she was undergoing treatment for cancer, and said in September that she completed chemotherapy.) King Charles also shifted tradition on Christmas Day in a meaningful way and filmed his annual Christmas Broadcast in a former hospital chapel instead of a royal residence. PEOPLE learned that the speech recorded at Fitzrovia Chapel, the former chapel of Middlesex Hospital in London, would reflect on national, international and personal challenges and how they can be surmounted through mutual community support, and the King delivered exactly that message on the holiday. His remarks also took a personal turn as he paid tribute to the medial professionals who were there for him and his daughter-in-law, Princess Kate. Aaron Chown/PA Images via Getty Kate Middleton, Queen Camilla, Prince William, King Charles and more royals walk to church at St. Mary Magdalene at Sandringham on Dec. 24, 2024. Kate Middleton, Queen Camilla, Prince William, King Charles and more royals walk to church at St. Mary Magdalene at Sandringham on Dec. 24, 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his remarks, the monarch praised the "selfless" healthcare workers who supported him and the princess "through the uncertainties and anxieties of illness," and thanked the public for their continued well-wishes. "From a personal point of view, I offer special, heartfelt thanks to the selfless doctors and nurses who, this year, have supported me and other members of my family through the uncertainties and anxieties of illness, and have helped provide the strength, care and comfort we have needed," King Charles said in part. "I am deeply grateful, too, to all those who have offered us their own kind words of sympathy and encouragement." The Princess of Wales, 42, also touched on the boost in morale that public support provided during the difficult year during the walkabout at Sandringham on Christmas Day. Aaron Chown/PA Images via Getty Kate Middleton at Sandringham on Dec. 25, 2024. Kate Middleton at Sandringham on Dec. 25, 2024. Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more! "The amount of people who have written this year is extraordinary, and I think cancer just really does resonate with so many families. People like you are doing all the hard work out there, and Im hugely grateful," Princess Kate told a woman who had worked with Macmillan Cancer Support, a U.K. charity that King Charles has long backed as patron. Read the original article on People The King questioned Margaret Thatchers nuclear defence strategy during the Cold War, newly declassified documents have revealed. The monarch, who was then the Prince of Wales, demanded personal military briefings from senior officials in 1983 about the governments approach to disarmament and the stockpiling of nuclear weapons. Representatives for the Prince later contacted ministers to say he was not entirely convinced by the policies of the Conservative administration and did not follow the logic of the explanations he was given. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The correspondence, held by the National Archives and first reported by The Times newspaper, shows how ministers sought to allay the Princes concerns for official flannel and obfuscation by providing bespoke briefings. He was also given access to sensitive documents that were meant to be seen only by senior politicians and military figures, the documents reveal. On Dec 14 1983, the Foreign Office was made aware that the Prince had requested briefings on current arms control and disarmament issues. (From left to right) Baroness Thatcher, the then Prince of Wales and Tony Blair at an event in 2007. In the 1980s, the Prince was said to be not entirely convinced by the governments nuclear policies - Anwar Hussein Collection/ROTA/FilmMagic The missive prompted officials to send policy papers prepared for officials for meetings of ministers to Buckingham Palace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, internal government correspondence from the following month shows that the Prince was dissatisfied with their attempt to justify the UKs decision not to support a comprehensive ban on the testing of nuclear weapons. It read: The Prince of Wales did not entirely follow the logic of the section and insofar as he did not follow it, was not entirely convinced by it. Additional documents revealed how Whitehall departments accepted there was a contradiction between statements that ministers issued in public and what they believed privately. One memo read: I suspect that HRH may have found it difficult to appreciate the distinction between the governments private view that a Comprehensive Test Ban (CTB) is not in the UKs interests, given the need to continue testing our deterrent, and our public position that we are prepared to agree to a CTB once verification problems have been resolved. Sir Bryan Cartledge, Britains ambassador to the Soviet Union, said officials needed to be frank with the Prince - City Syndication Another memo, written on Jan 23 1984, raised concerns that the Prince would not accept a further explanation, which had been drawn up at significant length, to justify the governments stance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It stated: I fear that the draft paper, in its present form, is unlikely to make HRH very much the wiser and may increase his apparent suspicion of obfuscation. We must be clearer and more frank. Sir Bryan Cartledge, Britains ambassador to the Soviet Union, in a briefing prepared for the Prince, wrote: We support CTB as a long-term objective but we need a national nuclear deterrent. If it is to be both credible and safe we have to go on testing it periodically. In the meantime, work continues to create the basis for an eventual CTB agreement. For the time being some ambiguity in our public stance is inevitable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Times reported that Sir Bryan observed that the wording was pretty frank, adding: It needs to be if it is to dispel any suspicion in HRHs mind of official flannel or obfuscation. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. California made major moves to address property crimes in 2024, from shoplifting to cargo theft and organized retail crime. A historic package made up of 11 bills was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom in August, and voters took things into their own hands in November, passing Prop. 36 by wide margins. With the new year underway, that legislation has come into effect. More from Sourcing Journal Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Californias new laws tackle todays biggest emerging challenges head-on, Newsom said last week. Through partnership with the Legislature, were strengthening public safety, building more housing, and providing more resources for our communities. These practical reforms protect what matters most while creating more opportunities for all Californians. Retail theft and property crime With shoplifting, smash-and-grabs, burglary and grand theft all making headlines more often in recent years, California legislators worked to address the concerns of retailers, law enforcement and prosecutors, creating new tools for charging and prosecuting these crimes. Californias felony theft threshold has been set at $950 since Prop. 47 was passed in 2014. Two new laws aim to address some of the challenges with that precedent, which has become more controversial over the past decade. AB 2943 will allow for the aggregation of the value of property stolen from different victims across counties or jurisdictions to reach the felony threshold. Similarly, AB 1779 permits the consolidation of theft charges and associated offenses that take place in different counties into a single criminal case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, SB 905 allows for the aggregation of the value of property stolen from vehicles during the course of multiple acts, supporting a charge of automotive property theft for resale. One measure Newsom tried to stave off with the signing of this robust bundle of bills was Prop. 36, which passed in November with 70 percent of California voters in favor. The Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act took effect in December, effectively rolling back certain provisions of the hotly debated Prop. 47, which many believe set the felony threshold for crimes like shoplifting too high. An essential element of the law introduces the concept of wobbler offenses, or crimes that may be charged as felonies or misdemeanors depending on other mitigating factors. Now, petty theft or shoplifting with two prior theft-related convictions may be charged as a felony. Law enforcement now has more avenues to tackle shoplifting and petty theft, too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For one, AB 2943, also known as the Retail Theft Reduction Act, gives an officer the right to arrest a person for shoplifting given there is probable cause, even if they did not witness the act. The same law doubles the allowable probation period for shoplifting and petty theft from one to two years, and allows defendants under 25 to be sent to rehabilitative programs. Fencing and organized retail crime The multifaceted AB 2943 addresses not just the act of stealing, but of possessing stolen property with the intent to commit a secondary crime to turn a profit. The law creates a new crime for possessing over $950 in boosted product with the idea of reselling, or fencing, or exchanging or returning the goods for cash. These activities are now punishable by up to three years in jail. At the same time, SB 1416 beefs up sentencing for the large-scale resale of stolen property. Politicians are also taking note of the increased use of web-based marketplaces to fence stolen goods. Mirroring nationally proposed legislation, California passed SB 1144, which requires online platforms to collect essential information about high-volume third-party sellers on their sites. And as retail crime becomes more organized and sophisticated, AB 1802 eliminates the sunset date for the crime of organized retail theft, as well as the expiration date for regional property crimes task forces. AB 1972 adds cargo theft to the roster of property crimes that those task forces may address, following an increase in cargo theft from railways during the pandemic. Violent crimes and smash-and-grabs AB 3209 aims to empower retailers that have been repeatedly targeted by thieves, allowing a court to issue a retail theft restraining order against a person convicted of organized retail theft, shoplifting, theft, vandalism or assault of a retail employee. This bars the person from entering not just the store they victimized, but other locations within a store chain, for up to two years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Accounts from across the state have painted a varied picture of the relationship between retailers and law enforcement, with some members of the retail community saying theyve been discouraged or even fined for repeated calls to police. AB 2943 protects retailers from facing citations or fines for reporting retail theft. And with the destruction of properties becoming more common during acts of retail crime, SB 1242 establishes higher penalties for thieves who set fires to facilitate organized retail theft, while AB 1960 creates mandatory sentencing requirements for stealing, damaging or destroying property worth over $50,000 during the commission of a felony. These changes give law enforcement and prosecutors new tools to tackle organized theft and protect local businesses, the governors office said last week. Now police can better stop repeat offenders, while prosecutors have more power to hold thieves accountableespecially when dealing with organized retail crime rings that operate across city and county lines. Chinese health officials are reportedly monitoring an increase in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV). There is currently no evidence that the outbreak is out of the ordinary or that a new respiratory virus or illness has emerged in China. A spokesperson for the World Health Organization (WHO) said data from China indicates "there has been a recent rise in acute respiratory infections" but that "the overall scale and intensity of respiratory infectious diseases in China this year are lower than last year." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cases of HMPV have been steadily increasing in the U.S. since November 2024 with 1.94% of weekly tests positive for HMPV as of Dec. 28, 2024, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). By comparison, 18.71% of weekly tests were positive for flu and 7.10% were positive for COVID during the same week, the data shows. In a statement Monday, the CDC said the agency is "monitoring reports of increased disease" in China as the country reportedly deals with rising number of HMPV cases. The reports are "not currently a cause for concern in the U.S." the agency adds. Public health experts told ABC News that HMPV is well-known to health care professionals and commonly circulates during respiratory virus season. MORE: Cases of RSV, flu ticking up among young children in US as respiratory virus season begins Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is that winter respiratory virus season, indeed," Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of preventive medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, told ABC News. "So, all of these respiratory viruses influenza, COVID, RSV, human metapneumovirus they all increase this time of the year, in part because we get so close to each other." "We spend time indoors and, of course, all of this holiday traveling, family get-together, and parties have been opportunities for us to get close together and for the virus to be transmitted," he continued. Here's what you need to know about HMPV, including what it is, how it spreads and how to treat it. What is HMPV? HMPV is a virus that can cause upper and lower respiratory disease, according to the CDC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was discovered in 2001 and is in the Pneumoviridae family along with respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, the CDC said. PHOTO: Computer illustration of particles of the human metapneumovirus (hMPV), a respiratory virus that affects almost all children by the age of 5. (Roger Harris/Getty Images) Over the years, there has been a better understanding and awareness of HMPV, which has led to broader testing, according to the federal health agency. "Human metapneumovirus is another one of those respiratory viruses that we're now appreciating more because we have the diagnostic capability to actually diagnose it more readily in hospitals, emergency rooms and even in physicians' offices," Schaffner said. "Now we have diagnostic panels that can tell you whether you have influenza or COVID or RSV or human metapneumovirus." What are the symptoms? HMPV has an incubation period of three to six days, according to the CDC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Symptoms include cough, nasal congestion, fever and shortness of breath, the federal health agency said. "It's oftentimes indistinguishable from the other respiratory viruses, because we don't usually check for it unless somebody is really ill," Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, a professor of medicine and an infectious diseases specialist at the University of California, San Francisco, told ABC News. Young children and adults aged 65 and older are among those at the highest risk of HMPV progressing to bronchitis or pneumonia. MORE: Some hospitals seeing increase in RSV, 'walking pneumonia.' Here's what to know How does it spread? HMPV can spread through secretions from coughing and sneezing, close personal contact and touching objects that have the virus and then touching the eyes, nose or mouth, according to the CDC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the U.S., like other respiratory viruses, HMPV cases typically rise in the winter and decrease in the spring. Chin-Hong said most people are exposed to HMPV by the time they're five years old. People can get reinfected, but symptoms are typically milder. Those who are immunocompromised or are older may experience more severe symptoms if they are reinfected. Is there treatment for HMPV? There are no antivirals to treat HMPV, so treatment consists of providing supportive care to patients with moderate or severe symptoms, the experts said. "If you're wheezing, we'll give bronchodilators," Chin-Hong said, referencing a medication that relaxes and opens the airways and helps clear mucus from the lungs. "If you're dehydrated, we give fluid; we reduce the fever." PHOTO: Stock photo. (Burlingham/Adobe) Chin-Hong said that because people may develop co-infections, including bacterial infections, antibiotics may need to be given. How do I prevent HMPV? There is no vaccine to prevent HMPV, so prevention includes following basic hygiene including washing hands with soap and water, covering the nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing and staying home when sick. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "People who are in this high-risk group for any of these viruses particularly older people, people who are frail, people who are immune-compromised if they go indoors where there are a lot of people, [they should] put their mask back on and also consider social distancing," Schaffner said. MORE: Despite 'game-changing' new RSV shots, uptake lagged among infants, adults: Experts Chin-Hong and Schaffner added that it's important for people to receive vaccines for other respiratory illnesses including COVID-19, flu and RSV. Getting vaccinated against other respiratory viruses can reduce the risk of co-infection and may help health care professionals rule out certain illnesses much sooner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Sure, you can get serious disease from HMPV itself, but if you get HMPV plus pneumococcus or HMPV plus influenza or RSV, it could be much worse," Chim-Hong said. "During respiratory virus season, you want to minimize the probability of co-infection." ABC News' Youri Benadjaoud contributed to this report What you need to know about HMPV as China sees rise in cases originally appeared on abcnews.go.com NEW LISBON A 33-year-old woman and two girls, ages 12 and 13, were found shot to death Dec. 30 in a Juneau County apartment. An eight-day manhunt has been underway since Dec. 30 for Virgil G. Thew, 47, of New Lisbon, in connection with their deaths. On Friday, the New Lisbon Police Department announced a statewide crime alert had been issued and the search for Thew had expanded outside of the New Lisbon area. On Monday, the police department said multiple state and federal agencies were involved in the search for Thew, who has been charged with three counts of first-degree intentional homicide in connection with the deaths. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here is what we know about the case so far. How did the investigation into the triple homicide begin? At about 7:40 a.m. Dec. 30, the father of a 13-year-old girl notified the Monroe County Sheriff's Office the girl was missing. The father used SnapChat to find her location at an apartment Virgil Thew shared with his mother and girlfriend on West Bridge Street in New Lisbon, according to a criminal complaint filed Friday. While searching for the 13-year-old girl, police learned a 12-year-old girl also was missing. Police could not find the two girls, Thew or his girlfriend. At 4:23 p.m. Dec. 30, almost nine hours after the 13-year-old girl first was reported missing, a 911 caller reported finding three bodies in a bedroom at Thew's apartment, according to the complaint. Who are the victims? The 33-year-old woman has been identified as Elizabeth Kolba, and the ages of the girls have been listed as 12 and 13, by the New Lisbon Police Department. The police department is withholding the girls' names. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The criminal complaint identifies Kolba as Thew's girlfriend, and the 12-year-old girl as Thew's stepdaughter. How did the victims die? The woman and two girls were found dead on a bed in Thew's bedroom at 4:23 p.m. Dec. 30. The door to the bedroom was secured with multiple locks. Family members said Thew got very angry when someone went into his bedroom, according to the criminal complaint. The girls and woman each died from an apparent gunshot wound, according to the complaint. Court documents state the three victims died sometime between Dec. 27 and Dec. 30. How is Virgil Thew connected to the deaths? On Friday, Thew was charged with three counts of first-degree intentional homicide, one as a domestic abuse incident, and a warrant was issued for his arrest in Juneau County Circuit Court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the criminal complaint, Thew was seen with the girls around the time of their deaths and he is the stepfather of the younger girl. The criminal complaint also identifies the 33-year-old woman as Thew's girlfriend. What does Virgil Thew look like? Virgil Thew Thew is 5 feet and 11 inches tall, weighs about 160 pounds and has a 1-inch scar on his forehead, according to the New Lisbon Police Department. He has brown hair and blue eyes. When is the last time Virgil Thew was seen? Police started looking for Thew on Dec. 30. The last confirmed sighting of Thew was near Orange and McEwen roads in the Juneau County town of Lisbon on Jan. 1. After an extensive search of the area by ground and drone, law enforcement has not located Thew. They believe that Thew may now be outside the New Lisbon area, they announced Friday night. Who is looking for Virgil Thew? The New Lisbon Police Department along with other agencies in Wisconsin, the FBI and the U.S. Marshals Services are searching for Thew, according to the New Lisbon Police Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Friday night, the New Lisbon Police Department announced a statewide crime alert had been issued for Thew. What should you do if you spot Virgil Thew? Thew is wanted through Wisconsin Probation and Parole. People should consider him armed and dangerous, according to the New Lisbon Police Department. If seen, do not approach Thew and contact 911. Contact Karen Madden at kmadden@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter @KMadden715, Instagram @kmadden715 or Facebook at www.facebook.com/karen.madden.33. This article originally appeared on Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune: What we know about a triple homicide & manhunt in New Lisbon Wisconsin Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is stepping down as the leader of the ruling Liberal Party, following months of pressure from partymates to resign amid increasingly poor public approval ratings. "I intend to resign as party leader as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide competitive process," Trudeau said at a press conference Monday morning outside of his home in Ottawa. This country deserves a real choice in the next election and it has become clear to me that if Im having to fight internal battles I cannot be the best option in that election. The Globe and Mail first reported on Sunday that Trudeau would leave his party leadership post this week ahead of a key party caucus on Wednesday, citing three unnamed sources. (Reuters also reported Trudeaus impending resignation, citing an unnamed source.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau on Monday confirmed that he would remain in office as both Liberal Party leader and Prime Minister until a replacement is selected, meaning he will lead Canada during the early months of Donald Trumps presidency, including navigating tense trade negotiations and potential tariff threats from the United States. Trudeau announced that Canadas Parliament would be suspended until March 24 to give his Liberal Party time to choose a new leader. Trudeaus resignation comes before a federal parliamentary election that must happen by October 2025, but it can be held earlier if the House of Commons passes a motion of no-confidence to dissolve the incumbent Liberal government. Why Trudeau stepped down Trudeaus nine-year tenure as Canadian Prime Minister has become tenuous, with two-thirds of Canadians disapproving of his performance, amid frustration over the cost of living and record immigration levels. The Liberal Party now trails the opposition Conservative Party by more than 20 percentage points and voter support hit a record low by the end of 2024. The party does not hold an outright majority in Parliament and has relied on the backing of the more left-leaning New Democratic Party through a supply-and-confidence agreement, which the NDP dropped in September. The separatist Bloc Quebecois also dropped its support for the Liberals in October, with its leader saying it wanted to topple Trudeaus government. These moves, along with recent losses in by-elections in formerly Liberal strongholds, pushed party members to hold a closed-door caucus meeting in late October in Ottawa, where they urged Trudeau to resign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pressure on Trudeau grew further following the Dec. 16 shock resignation of one of his closest allies, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, after he tried to demote her. In her resignation letter, Freeland accused Trudeau of costly political gimmicks over plans to cancel sales tax and hand out $250 checks for Christmas. Freeland said Canada needed to keep its fiscal powder dry ahead of a possible trade war amid Trumps threat to slap a 25% tariff on all goods from Canada. Trudeau has since shuffled his Cabinet, but the likelihood of elections being called sooner grew after NDP leader Jagmeet Singh issued a letter on Dec. 20 stating that his party will vote to bring this government down and put forward a motion of no-confidence. Justin Trudeau has let you down, over and over, Singh wrote in a statement after Trudeau announced his resignation Monday. It doesnt matter who leads the Liberals. They dont deserve another chance. For many, Trudeaus resignation marks the end of an era in Canadian politics. He first rose to national prominence as leader of the Liberal Party in 2013, inheriting a political legacy from his father, Pierre Trudeau, who served as prime minister for almost 16 years. However, Trudeaus legacy remains complex. His tenure will be remembered for progressive policies, including the legalization of cannabis, a national child care program that lowered fees to $10 a day, and a welcoming immigration policy. But his struggle to manage the economic and political challenges of recent years has overshadowed many of his achievements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his press conference Monday, Trudeau said he has one regret going into the upcoming election: that he did not change the electoral system to ranked-choice voting, which he says would reduce political division. People would have been looking for things they have in common, instead of trying to polarize and divide Canadians against each other, he said of allowing Canadians the option to select a second or third choice on the ballot. But critics at the time said it was a move that would mainly benefit Liberal election fortune What happens next The Liberal Party constitution states that upon resignation, the party board of directors, in consultation with the caucus, should appoint an interim leader. But time may not be on Liberals side in its selection of a replacement for Trudeau, with the incoming Trump Administration and a looming general election. The party constitution states that nominees must submit nominations at least 90 days before a scheduled leadership vote. But it also states that the party board can change the date of a leadership vote and alter any arrangements already made if three-quarters of its voting members determines that political circumstances require that the date be reset. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the Liberal candidates who have been floated to potentially succeed Trudeau as party leader are Freeland; new Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc; Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly; Innovation, Science and Industry Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne; and Transport and Internal Trade Minister Anita Anand. Trudeau also said that Governor General Mary Simon, who represents the monarch in Canada, accepted his request to prorogueessentially pauseParliament until March 24. That is days before a March 31 deadline when the House of Commons needs to vote on interim supplygovernment funding for the first three months of the fiscal year. Votes on spending items like the supply are automatically considered votes of confidence. Prorogation, while a routine parliamentary procedure, can buy sitting governments time amid their political crises. A prorogation of parliament will allow Liberals to delay a no-confidence vote and evade triggering elections earlier, though it could face legal hurdles. There will be confidence votes in March and the passing of supply, that will allow Parliament to weigh in on confidence in a way that is entirely in keeping with all the principles of democracy and the workings of our strong institutions, Trudeau said. Write to Nik Popli at nik.popli@time.com. Mondays Top Stories Mondays Five Facts [1] Video: Driver of car strikes two police cruisers, history of crashing into police New video shows the moment a woman, who has had run-ins with the law in the past, found herself in trouble again after trying to flee from police last August. Police later identified Leann Aragon as the driver of a vehicle and said she drove around one police car before crashing into another head on. Aragon is facing charges for aggravated batter on a police officer. [2] APD homicide detectives investigate death An Albuquerque woman is facing murder charges, accused of killing her boyfriend. Celeste Al-Asady called police saying she had found her neighbor dead in his home. Al-Asadys mother told police her daughter dated the victim and she heard them arguing the night before. Police say evidence in the victims apartment indicated Al-Asady tracked the victims blood throughout the apartment and threw out bloody clothes. [3] Some New Mexico snow ahead, cold, & breezy As the jet stream dips to our west with the developing storm system slowly moving east, light-to-moderate snow with chilly rain activity late will become more widespread tonight into tomorrow through Wednesday morning with each morning for the next couple of mornings become colder with stronger northeasterly winds, leading to many eventually feeling below zero degrees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [4] Santa Fe police arrest suspects accused of stealing fuel Santa Fe Police have arrested two people accused of stealing more than $20,000 in diesel fuel. On Friday, police responded to a Speedway gas station to a possible fuel theft. Officers later found Alfredo Fonteboa-Hechavarria who was filling up his truck. Police say Hechavarria had altered a fuel pump so the pup would dispense more fuel than it could calculate. Hechavarria along with his wife, Dania Guerra, were arrested. [5] Santa Fe Fire Department reunited with first fire truck The Santa Fe Fire Department is once again reunited with their very first fire truck that was used during the early 1900s. The American La France Firetruck arrived in Santa Fe in 1918 and was the first truck used by the department. Over the weekend, it was dropped off at the home of a retired Santa Fe firefighter who will work to restore the vehicle . Its unclear where the truck will be stored once it is fixed up. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP) FOX8 honors Krystal Hughes of Bessemer Elementary School. Congrats, Mrs. Hughes! If you know of an educator who is worthy of this nomination please fill out the nomination form here. Educator of the Week is sponsored by the North Carolina Education Lottery. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX8 WGHP. Snow covers the lawn of the Kentucky Capitol in Frankfort, Jan. 6, 2025. (Kentucky Lantern photo by Tom Loftus) Facing severe winter weather, Kentuckys elected officials are postponing some events or trudging ahead to fulfill constitutional requirements. The Kentucky Supreme Court announced Monday afternoon that investitures scheduled this week for incoming Chief Justice Debra Lambert and Justice Pamela Goodwine will be rescheduled at a later date. Both were officially sworn in last month and hold their new judicial seats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lambert, whose investiture was slated for Tuesday, is Kentuckys first female chief justice. Goodwines investiture was scheduled for Friday. She became the first Black woman elected to the high court in November. Additionally, justices on the court were set to hear oral arguments in three cases on Tuesday and Wednesday of this week, but those have been canceled and will be rescheduled. Meanwhile, the General Assembly must open its 2025 legislative session on Tuesday. The Kentucky Constitution requires the legislature to convene on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in January. Both the House and Senate will meet at noon on Tuesday. In a press briefing about the weather Monday morning, Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear said he anticipated state office buildings to open Tuesday, along with most businesses across the state. However, he urged Kentuckians to plan extra time for your commute tomorrow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beshear said he provided Republican House Speaker David Osborne and Republican Senate President Robert Stivers with information about the storm, which has been named Winter Storm Blair, and added they were considering the safety of lawmakers this week. The governor had declared a state of emergency for Kentucky over the weekend ahead of the storm. Kentucky communities have seen several inches of snow and some ice across Sunday and Monday. The governors office said 93,400 people were without power as of Monday morning, but that number was fluctuating. The National Weather Services Louisville office said air temperatures are expected to drop into the single digits or below zero Wednesday night and Thursday morning in some parts of north central Kentucky. As the H5N1 bird flu virus continues to rip throughout Californias dairy herds and commercial poultry flocks, a Central Valley state official is raising concern about the lack of wastewater surveillance in the region. State Sen. Melissa Hurtado (D-Sanger) has been frustrated by what she says are gaps in tracking the bird flus spread in the Central Valley, where many of the states most vulnerable people dairy and poultry workers live and work. If youre tracking disease that spreads from animal to human, you want to be looking at rural areas, like the county of Tulare where there are more cows than there are people yet theres no testing of wastewater anywhere south of Fresno in the valley, Hurtado said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Dec. 30, 37 people in California have tested positive for H5N1; all but one was a dairy worker. In addition, more than two-thirds of the states dairy herds 697 have been infected, as well as 93 commercial or backyard poultry flocks, accounting for nearly 22 million birds. On Dec. 18, Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency after the virus jumped from the states Central Valley dairy herds into Southern California dairy cattle, despite quarantine restrictions designed to stop the spread. The virus, which is also moving in migrating birds and wildlife populations, has been detected in wastewater sites around the state, including in Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Jose. However, sampling is sparse in the Central Valley, where the majority of human cases have been reported and the risk is high. Indeed, wastewater sampling for bird flu is nonexistent in some of the counties most at risk, including Tulare and Kings. Why current testing is not good enough Sampling wastewater helps public health officials track a virus spread. It has been a tactic officials employed during the COVID-19 pandemic in order to monitor the coronavirus spread. In California, officials used wastewater to predict waves of infection and just how much the virus was circulating among populations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In California, health officials say they are monitoring 78 sites in 36 counties for a range of viruses; in all but two sites they say they are looking for bird flu. In an email to The Times, state officials said the states Cal-SuWers Network is monitoring six sites in the Central Valley, including in Kern, Merced, Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the most recent sample from Kern County was submitted Dec. 7, and it was positive for the virus. Its a major blind spot in the states surveillance system, state officials acknowledge, yet note its one they have little control over. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Availability of wastewater monitoring at a site requires utility participation, which is voluntary, said Ali Bay, spokeswoman for the state agency. Competing priorities and resource constraints can reduce a [utility's] capacity to participate. Tulare County and Kings County lead the state with the most human cases, according to the numbers each county has released. Laura Flores, a spokesperson for the Tulare County public health department, said the countys independent wastewater treatment plants have chosen not to participate in the states surveillance program. Tulare has 18 reported cases, the most of any county and nearly half the states total. Everardo Legaspi, deputy director for Kings County public health department, told The Times they have had four confirmed cases. The county has been unable to participate in the state's wastewater surveillance project since October because of staffing shortages, he added, but the county is working to begin wastewater collection and expand it to other sites in the county. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For months, experts have been concerned that public health authorities have been lethargic in their response to the burgeoning pandemic, and that public safety has taken a back seat to agricultural interests. It was only last month that the U.S. Department of Agriculture began a program to test for the virus in the nations raw milk supply roughly a year after experts believe the virus spilled into cattle, and after more than 900 dairy herds and 60 people were infected. I do think that people are continually minimizing this outbreak and this virus, said Rick Bright, a virologist and the former head of the U.S. Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority. Our government officials are not doing the thorough investigation they should be doing. Even after the USDAs announcement about the new bulk milk testing program, only 13 states are being included in the initial rollout; many, including California, Colorado and Michigan, were already testing their milk. And the incoming Trump administration has threatened to pull the U.S. out of the World Health Organization, a move that would further blind the U.S. and the rest of the world to the virus movements. Although the Biden administration announced Thursday that it was committing an additional $306 million to ward off a potential outbreak of bird flu in humans funds that would be distributed before he leaves office later this month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I don't think that the right questions are being asked to have an understanding of this bird flu, Hurtado said. In large part its because there's just a lack of guidance coming from the feds. What we could learn from bird flu surveillance if we were doing it right To be sure, finding bird flu in wastewater does not mean there is a human outbreak of the virus. Unlike COVID-19, mpox or seasonal influenza which when found in wastewater indicate human infections positive samples of bird flu could be from a variety of sources, including pasteurized milk. Thats because the method used to sample for bird flu in wastewater looks for markers of the virus, not the whole virus. That means the tests could be picking up inactivated fragments of the virus, like those found in commercial pasteurized milk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont think we really know what it means, said Richard Webby, director of the World Health Organizations Collaborating Center for Studies on the Ecology of Influenza in Animals and Birds. How much milk gets poured down the drain in an urban area? We know we can get high loads in supermarket milk. I actually have no clue what supermarkets do with expired milk. Its also possible it's coming from raw milk or raw meat. Or even waste products from wild birds and mammals, in which the virus is also currently circulating. Since the beginning of the outbreak, California officials have found the virus in wild birds such as rock pigeons, white-faced ibis, and turkey vultures, as well as wild mammals including mountain lions, raccoons and skunks. Read more: Owner of two cats that died after drinking H5N1 recalled milk threatens to sue Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition, its possible people are shedding inactivated virus in their feces, said Alexandra Boehm, professor of civil and environmental engineering at Stanford University and principal investigator and program director for WastewaterSCAN. The fight to improve the system Irrespective of what the samples are showing, they provide evidence that the virus is circulating somewhere in the environment. And the fact that health and water utility officials in certain regions of the state are willfully not looking for it is another example of the governments failure to contain the disease and keep track of its spread, said Bright. The virus is evolving quickly. Without full participation in surveillance and testing programs, coupled with full and timely transparency, we will always be behind the virus, said Bright. Our ability to get in front of it will be hampered without full collaboration and cooperation at federal, state, local and community levels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Why scientists say we are fighting H5N1 bird flu with one hand tied behind our backs For Hurtado, the situation is also personal. She said her father and her niece, who live in the Central Valley, displayed bird flu symptoms earlier this year, but no testing was available to confirm her suspicions. Her father contracted a virus that nearly killed him and involved severe muscle and body aches, a symptom of bird flu. Her 7-year-old niece, who lives in Sanger, a town with a large poultry processing plant, recently had a rare autoimmune response to a virus, and she had red, swollen eyes, a symptom of the H5N1 virus. Her doctors don't know what triggered the reaction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite showing symptoms, she said, neither was tested for bird flu but she suspects they had it. Dairy farmers, workers and family members have also told The Times that they believe the states reported numbers are likely an undercount, as some workers may not report being sick for fear of losing work. I don't have the science or the information to back it up, but my heart tells me both my father and my niece got the bird flu, she said. Both were impacted by severe illness by some unknown virus. Read more: 'Worrisome' mutations found in H5N1 bird flu virus isolated from Canadian teenager The personal experience has driven her to push the state for answers on tracking the virus spread. She has asked the state's health department about the lack of Central Valley testing but she said she hasnt gotten a clear response. Hurtado has also pushed for an increase in testing in high-risk communities. Despite some testing for individuals at risk, including dairy and poultry workers, the state doesnt offer a comprehensive way to test heavily agricultural communities. Hurtado, whose district includes a large swath of the Central Valley, said she intends to propose legislation that would expand the states wastewater surveillance program to include sites in underserved and high-risk communities in rural areas. The legislation would also develop criteria for identifying high-priority sites based on health risks, population density and socioeconomic factors. Hurtado worries about communities like Sanger, her hometown. There is a poultry processing plant, one of the largest employers in the city and county, that has been hit hard by bird flu. Since the end of October, a dozen commercial poultry operations in Fresno County have been hit by the virus, resulting in the culling of more than 1.5 million birds. She has heard stories of workers losing hours of work as animals have gotten sick and poultry farms have been entirely depopulated. The price of eggs also has risen as a result of the outbreak. I think we could've done a lot more a lot earlier, she said. But were here, and we've got to be able to improve upon where weve failed. 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. Kyle Farmbry, the president of Guilford College, has stepped down after three years in the position, the college said in a news release Friday. The release did not offer a reason for the resignation, though the school has faced financial struggles in recent years and a related probation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Trustees Jean Parvin Bordewich and Keith Millner began serving as acting president and acting chief operating officer, respectively, beginning Friday. Additionally, Trustees Carla Brenner, Paula Sours and Daniel Mosca will join them on a Trustee Coordinating Committee. Bordewich told the News & Record in an interview that it will likely be some time before the school begins the search for its next president, but officials hope to pick someone later in 2025. Were not going to start a search right away, Bordewich said. Were going to take a few months. Bordewich also said right now its unclear whether the search for the next president will be a local or national search. Im sure Guilford feels like every college does, that we want the best candidate for our particular school, Bordewich said. Guilford is unique, Guilford is very special so whether the search takes us to a national candidate or somebody in our own backyard, maybe even already at Guilford were open and were just committed to finding the right candidate. The trustees in the interim leadership roles will be on campus meeting with faculty, staff and students as the spring semester begins next week, and they will have a regular presence during the interim period. Farmbry will serve as an adviser to the board for a few months to assist with the transition. I take pride in so much that we have accomplished over the past several years including developing our strategic plan, elevating the visibility of Guilford in local, national, and international initiatives, and creating new opportunities for members of our community, Farmbry says in the news release. Most of all, I have enjoyed walking alongside our students on their journeys of discovery. The school provided a list of Farmbrys achievements as president: *Established international partnerships and raised the colleges visibility in international circles in particular through efforts supported by the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Embassy in South Africa, and the U.S. Department of Education via the Fulbright Commission. *Oversaw development of Guilfords strategic plan Envision Guilford 2027. The plan was endorsed by the Board of Trustees in November 2023 and was the first new plan for the school since 2011. *Developed Conceptualizing Peace, an initiative to build dialogue around peace-building. This effort consisted of a forum in April 2024 on peace initiatives. *Started Guilford Rise, a program for rising high school seniors to spend time on campus, take courses and receive Guilford credit. *Significantly increased federal funding for Guilford. In fiscal year 2022, the school had received $46,000 in federal support. In fiscal year 2024, the school received $1.8 million in federal support. Despite those accomplishments, however, Guilford College is on probation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges in connection with financial troubles dating back to 2020. After two years of financial monitoring by the accreditation commission, Guilford College was placed on probation in 2023 for failing to comply with Standard 13.3 of the Principles of Accreditation, which states, The institution manages its financial resources in a responsible manner. Probation means that the school maintains its accreditation and has 12 months to satisfy the commissions accreditation standards. The schools deadline to come in compliance with accreditation standards was extended last month and Guilford College will now have until December 2025 to meet the requirements. The Board of Trustees noted the schools challenges in its news release Friday while praising Farmbry for his efforts. The Board of Trustees wishes to thank Kyle for three years of service to Guilford at a challenging time, during which he dealt with a number of unexpected crises including the cyberattack in 2022 and growing budget deficits, Bordewich said in the release. His initiatives to make Guilford a visible presence and build relationships in greater Greensboro, nationally, and internationally have advanced the College in several ways. Tay Maxwell, who graduated from Guilford College with a degree in criminal justice in 2023 and now works as an officer for the Greensboro Police Department, told the News & Record that Farmbry will be sorely missed. He cares a lot about everybody, Maxwell said. Once he meets you once, hell remember your name forever. I honestly think he did a 360 for the school from where we were and to where we are now, Maxwell said. I dont think Guilford is the best right now, but from when I first came in ... a 360. Bordewich said the search for a new president shouldnt interfere with the schools efforts to come into compliance with accreditation standards. We have a team at the school thats already been working with SACS, Bordewich said. We on the Trustees we have also met and been briefed by SACS, I already know them, theyre aware of the transition, so I dont really see any impact that would have on the actual process that were going through. Bordewich currently lives in Washington D.C. and said she looks forward to spending more time in Greensboro as Guilford College goes through the change in leadership. I went to school at Guilford for two years and I have family, my mothers family is from Alamance County and so Ive spent a lot of time in the area, Bordewich said. Itll be a pleasure. I have many friends as well as people at Guilford so Im looking forward to spending more time in the Greensboro area. LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) Lancaster City police are seeking the publics help with identifying a hit-and-run suspect. According to police, at around 4:30 p.m. on Dec. 16, a driver knocked over a traffic pole with their vehicle before driving away. The individual was leaving the Shamrock Cafe on West Walnut Street before hitting the pole. Images from the scene show the individual driving a dark gray or black Ford pickup truck with a Pennsylvania license plate. Photo from Police Photo from Police Photo from Police Anyone with information is encouraged to contact police at 717-735-3300 or leave a tip online. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. LANCASTER COUNTY, S.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) A Charlotte man has been arrested after allegedly trying to rob a liquor store with a handgun, the Lancaster County Sheriffs Office said. Around 3 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 3, deputies responded to Stateline Elite at 9804 Charlotte Highway in Indian Land about shots fired in the store. At the time of the incident, there were five employees and four customers in the store. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Woman charged after child allegedly doesnt eat solid foods for 6 months: Docs Witnesses said the suspect, Datatrius Marques Vaughn-McHam, 27, entered the store, picked up two cases of high-dollar tequila, and attempted to walk out without paying for it. Officials said one employee attempted to physically restrain Vaughn-McHam while another blocked the exit. The suspect then allegedly pulled out a 9 mm pistol from his pocket and the employees struggled over the gun. Two shots were fired but did not hit anyone, officials said. A customer then stepped in to help the employees restrain Vaughn-McHam until deputies arrived. Officials said one employee was bitten during the altercation and the suspect suffered a bloody nose. No other injuries were reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the sheriffs office, Vaughn-McHam was wanted by several North Carolina law enforcement agencies, and the piston he had was reported lost to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department on New Years Eve. Queen City News is tracking CRIME in your area >> Latest stories here Vaughn-McHam was booked into the Lancaster County Detention Center without bond for attempted murder, armed robbery, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a violent crime. Authorities said a detainer was placed upon him by the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction. This was a very dangerous incident, and I am thankful no one was shot or seriously hurt, Sheriff Barry Faile said. While we are glad Vaughn-McHam was detained by the employees and a customer, I caution folks that what begins as a property crime like this can quickly turn into a life-or-death situation when you dont know who youre dealing with or what he might have on him. The better course is to get a good description or photos of the suspect and his car with a tag number and pass that information on to the police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A judge set bail at $1 million for a man accused of threatening a shooting at a health care company, the 8 News Now Investigators have learned. Las Vegas Metro police arrested Stevie Adams, 35, on charges of making terrorist threats after a phone call last month, documents said. During the call from Molina Healthcare, Adams allegedly threatened to shoot up the building. Documents said that after the call, security at the business locked down the building until officers arrived. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Records show that police arrested Adams on Dec. 30. Adams said he had no ill will toward the company but was frustrated with the service. In court on Dec. 31, Las Vegas Justice Court Judge Suzan Baucum set Adams bail at $1 million, ordering him to stay away from the business should he be released, documents said. A court date was scheduled for Jan. 6 but no information was updated in the court docket as of Monday. The arrest comes weeks after a person shot and killed the CEO of UnitedHealthcare in New York City. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The last time I came to the U.S. Capitol was exactly four years ago. I only made it as far as the outer lobby before a volley of tear gas forced me and a gang of rioters to retreat. I got only a brief glimpse of a grand chandelier and the famous ceiling murals before running into a giant column with my eyes closed. On this January 6, I entered through that very same door and took a seat in the press gallery above the House Chamber to witness what was always supposed to be a solemn and procedural affair: the certification of the presidential election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This time there was no QAnon Shaman, no Proud Boys, no priests chanting the Lords Prayer on the Ellipse, no tear gas, no zip ties, no gallows, and no raging president encouraging his supporters. Instead, Vice President Kamala Harris, fresh off her election defeat, entered the room to polite applause from both sides. She walked past a beaming Marjorie Taylor Greene, the congresswoman from Georgia and perhaps the biggest supporter of the mob that attacked this building four years ago. Laughing throughout, Taylor Greene appeared the happiest person in the room. Harris stood alongside Speaker Mike Johnson as she announced the start of the count, and dutifully watched over the reading out of each states votes. Madam President, the certificate of the electoral vote of the State of Alabama seems to be regular in form and authentic, and it appears therefrom that Donald J. Trump of the state of Florida received nine votes for president, and so on, fifty times over. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The process was a return to normalcy, but with the heart of the dispute unresolved like an awkward Christmas dinner with parents who never went to therapy. The count proceeded as it should have done four years ago, but there were plenty of reminders of that day. The boxes containing the certified Electoral College vote tallies, with their distinctive leather straps, were placed at the Speakers podium waiting to be opened. Four years ago, those same boxes were hurried out of the chamber moments before the Capitol rioters reached these doors. Reporters in the gallery shared memories of that day, pointing to the spot where they hid as the chamber doors were breached. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nancy Pelosi, the former House speaker who more than anyone channeled the rage felt by its members when she condemned Donald Trump that day, wore a pained smile throughout. Passing through the hall with a walker, she looked like a wounded warrior leaving the battlefield. The biggest threat to proceedings this time around was the weather. In a fitting metaphor for the day, a brutal winter snow storm fell on the Capitol, covering everything underneath in a blanket of eerie silence. The snow-covered US Capitol building is seen through black security fencing on the fourth anniversary of the January 6 attack. (Getty Images) A lifetime has passed in these last four years. When the dust settled on January 6, 2021, few could have imagined that the instigator of that historic attack on the US Capitol would be returning to the White House again. Trump dispatched his mob in a speech of fire and brimstone, and a coded language so simple even a child could understand. He wanted them to disrupt the peaceful transition of power and interrupt the democratic process to remain in power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The crowd was so sure of its task that it started to head for the Capitol before he had even finished talking. I followed that mob of thousands as they gathered on the lawn beneath the grand steps of the building, as militiamen forced their way to the front and eventually beat police out of the way. I was helped up over an outer wall by a large bearded man with a southern drawl who called me brother and thankfully was oblivious to me being a journalist. I watched as they stormed the building and did what they had been told to do. The crowd read aloud the then-presidents rageful tweets calling Mike Pence a traitor. It spurred them on. The attack was unique in American history, but familiar to countries around the world where democracy is faltering or nonexistent. In those places warlords don suits, history is rewritten, crimes are forgotten and buried and everyone has to adjust to the new reality. That is what has happened here. In the years that followed, many Americans decided they were completely unmoved by it. No amount of lofty coverage about its gravity and meaning, or hours of footage showing how brutal it really was, could shift the country in any meaningful way. The attempted coup became a non-event to many, little more than a cudgel used by the Democrats to bash Trump. (L-R) US Senator Deb Fischer, Republican from Nebraska, speaks as US Vice President Kamala Harris and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson look on during of a joint session of Congress to certify the results of the 2024 Presidential election, inside the House Chamber at the US Capitol on January 6, 2025 (AFP via Getty Images) Part of the reason, of course, was the full-force public relations campaign launched by Trump and the pliant right-wing media ecosystem that brought him to power. When it became clear that Trump would retain his grip on the Republican Partys base, the party dutifully fell in line and disavowed their disavowals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even those who abhorred what happened that day took the wrong lesson from January 6. People like Mitch McConnell, who held in his hands the power to impeach Trump and bar him from ever taking office again, instead saw it as a near miss a day when institutions withstood their strongest test. But the attack on the Capitol didnt end that day. It continued in the months and years ahead as Trump refused to drop the lie that the election was stolen from him, and it continued when his party stopped disagreeing with him. Over time, Trumps attempt to steal an election was rebranded as a protest, a riot, or something in between. He and his acolytes rewrote the events of that so successfully that not only is he returning to the White House, but he is also poised to pardon hundreds of the rioters who carried out his scheme. Trumps victory in the 2024 election settled the matter for good. The lesson of the Capitol attack would need to be relearned. To paraphrase the man himself: When youre a president, they let you do it. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) With the upcoming legislative session of the 114th General Assembly set to begin in about a week, the latest statewide poll shows broad support for Gov. Bill Lees Education Freedom Scholarship plan, otherwise known as school vouchers. The latest Beacon Center poll shows a whopping 67% of Tennesseans support the governors plan, and only 13% oppose it. According to the poll results, support for the school voucher plan is consistent across party lines, though Republicans showed the largest amount of support, at 75%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U-Haul names TN a top growth state for 2024 It is also well above water with Democrats (+25%), and Independents (+57%), the Beacon Center said of the poll. (Courtesy: The Beacon Center of Tennessee) (Courtesy: The Beacon Center of Tennessee) (Courtesy: The Beacon Center of Tennessee) The poll was conducted from Dec. 16 to Dec. 27, 2024, with 1,200 registered Tennessee voters responding. According to the poll results, 20% of respondents said they had no opinion or were not sure about the education plan from the governor. The poll also asked respondents how they felt about public education in Tennessee. Read the latest from the TN State Capitol Newsroom Nearly 60% of respondents said they were dissatisfied about public education (54%), with only 40% of respondents approving of public education. Six percent of respondents were not sure, according to the poll. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Respondents also largely said they would be much more likely or somewhat more likely to support lawmakers who supported the voucher legislation, at 57%. Only 12% of respondents said they would be much or somewhat less likely to vote for those legislators, while 23% of respondents said it would not affect their vote. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Congress certified President-elect Donald Trumps election under the tightest national security level possible. Layers of tall black fencing flank the U.S. Capitol complex in a stark reminder of what happened on January 6 four years ago. Heres the latest: Kamala Harris played her ceremonial role with perfunctory remarks and no rhetorical flourishes She passed copies of each states results to lawmakers, who read them out loud. When they finished, Harris announced the final results, and smiled tightly as Republicans applauded Donald Trumps victory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The entire process lasted less than 30 minutes. The chair declares this joint session dissolved, Harris said. Thank you. A stunningly ordinary certification comes to an end After going through all the certificates for 50 states and D.C., Congress anticlimactically certified the 2024 election for Trump and Vance. It happened with little fanfare with some members taking breaks from looking at the dais to check their phones or engage in conversations with their neighbors. Harris ended it with the words: The chair declares this joint session dissolved. She shook hands and kissed a few members on the cheek before being swept away. The tallying of the electoral votes has been completed Vice President Kamala Harris announced the tally as President-elect Donald Trump receiving 312 votes and Harris herself receiving 226 votes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her announcements of both received raucous cheers in the chamber. When she announced Trumps victory, she smiled tightly as Republicans gave a standing ovation. Democratic Rep. Pramila Jayapal says in post that we will not forget what happened during Jan. 6 riot Democrats who were trapped in the House gallery four years ago when Donald Trumps supporters were trying to break down the doors to the chamber posed for a photo in the same spot ahead of this years Jan. 6 certification. Washington Rep. Pramila Jayapal posted it on X and wrote we will not forget. JD Vance is sitting in the front row of the chamber as tellers count the votes of his own election victory The vice president-elect sat calmly as the chamber clapped for the announcement that his home state cast its electoral votes for the Trump-Vance ticket. Harris is handing the certificates to the people reading them As the results are announced, she stands with her hands clasped in front of her. The designated tellers have begun the formal process of reading each states electoral certificates Lawmakers clapped after the reading of each states results. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first state where electoral votes went to Vice President Kamala Harris and Tim Walz was California and received a round of applause from Democrats. The electoral certificate for Georgia going to Trump and Vance received an outburst of cheers from a few members of the GOP delegation, including staunch Trump ally Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. Vice President-elect JD Vance also walked down the path of the House floor He was greeted by Republican members. Vance will be in attendance as a senator as his and President-elect Donald Trumps victory is certified by Congress. Three boxes containing the official Electoral College tally were escorted across the Capitol by armed security Vice President Kamala Harris and members of the Senate were in tow. Senators filed into the House, greeting their House colleagues on both sides of the aisle Its a reunion for many, including new senators Adam Schiff of California and Ruben Gallego of Arizona who were until last week members of the House. Many of the Republicans attending Mondays joint session say theyre prepared to vote to certify Trumps win But its unlikely there will be any voting Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The only time Congress votes on the Electoral College results is when someone lodges a successful objection to a states result. With Democrats not challenging the results of this election, the session should proceed mainly as a counting exercise. Congress voted twice on the results of the election in 2021, rejecting Republican challenges to President Joe Bidens victories in Arizona and Pennsylvania. The House convenes for a joint session to certify the election Attendance on both sides of the aisle appears low after Washington received heavy snowfall overnight into Monday. There was mild applause for Vice President Kamala Harris as she arrived on to the House floor to a flurry of empty seats. Sen. Schumer criticizes the possibility of pardons for Jan. 6 rioters Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer says its shamefully, utterly outrageous that President-elect Donald Trump is considering pardons for those who participated in the breach of the Capitol four years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It would send a message to the country and to the world that those who use force to get their way will not be punished, said Schumer, as lawmakers gathered Monday to certify Trumps victory in Novembers presidential election. Schumer paid tribute to law enforcement officers working at the Capitol four years ago and said pardoning the rioters would be reckless and an insult to the memory of those whose lives were lost in connection with that day. A rare GOP statement remembering the Jan. 6 attack As most of his colleagues deflected or wrote off the anniversary of the Jan 6 insurrection, Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, a moderate Pennsylvania Republican, honored the remarkable courage and sacrifice of the Capitol police who defended the Capitol that day. Their courage in the face of danger upheld the ideals of our nation and reminded us of the profound cost of defending freedom, he wrote on the social media site X. A Republican congressman downplays the violence that happened four years ago Rep. Mike Collins, R-Ga., described the riot that took place at the U.S. Capitol four years ago as a self-guided, albeit unauthorized, tour of the U.S. Capitol building and praised President Donald Trumps vow to pardon rioters who stormed the Capitol that day on social media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since then, hundreds of peaceful protestors have been hunted down, arrested, held in solitary confinement, and treated unjustly, Collins wrote on X. Thankfully, President Trump has announced that, on day one of his presidency, he will grant pardons to nonviolent defendants. More than 1,250 people have pleaded guilty or were convicted of crimes for the Capitol siege. Collins statement downplayed the violence and disruption to the certification of the 2020 election four years ago. He described the armed mob as comprised of thousands of peaceful grandmothers in his post. Collins was elected to Congress in the 2022 midterms and campaigned on false claims that President Joe Biden had stolen the 2020 election. Hes known for often posting controversial, ironic and hard right statements online. Democrats release a flurry of Jan. 6 remembrance statements as the GOP remains quiet The four year anniversary of the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol is being marked Monday by a number of congressional Democrats, including current and former leaders as Republicans remained mostly silent as they prepare to certify the election of the man who incited that very mob. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Nancy Pelosi, who was speaker when the insurrection happened, marked the occasion, saying the attack shook our Republic to its core. We must never forget the extraordinary courage of law enforcement officers on January 6th who stood in the breach and stared down the insurrectionists to protect the Capitol, the Congress and the Constitution, the California lawmaker said in a statement. Her successor, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries echoed her sentiment, saying the American people must never be allowed to the forget the events of Jan. 6. He added that history will always remember the attempted insurrection and we will never allow the violence that unfolded in plain sight to be whitewashed. Reminders of Jan. 6 attack fade in the Capitol Inside the Capitol, reminders of the violence are increasingly hard to find. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scars on the walls have been repaired. Windows and doors broken by the rioters have been replaced. And theres no plaque, display or remembrance of any kind. In some ways, its like the insurrection of Jan. 6, 2021, that shook the foundations of American democracy, never happened. Read more about how Jan. 6 isand isntbeing remembered An eerie day at the US Capitol On the morning of the certification, the U.S. Capitol was covered in snow with roads blocked off for miles as police hoped for a quiet day in Congress. At certain points, there were more officers than staff as many lawmakers were expected to be absent Monday due to the inclement weather. Its a stark difference from what transpired four years ago today as lawmakers, staff and reporters hid from a violent mob that overtook the Capitol building, leaving mayhem in their wake. Biden says Americans shouldnt forget the 2021 Capitol attack but there wont be a repeat this time President Joe Biden is decrying what he calls an unrelenting effort to downplay a mob of Donald Trump supporters overrunning the U.S. Capitol in an attempt to block certification of the 2020 election seeking to contrast that days chaos with what he promises will be an orderly transition returning Trump to power for a second term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an opinion piece published Sunday in The Washington Post, Biden recalled Jan. 6, 2021, writing that violent insurrectionists attacked the Capitol. We should be proud that our democracy withstood this assault, Biden wrote. And we should be glad we will not see such a shameful attack again this year. Read more about Bidens opinion piece An overview of what will be happening at the Capitol Under heavy security, lawmakers in the snowy Capitol will gather at 1 p.m. ET to count the electoral votes in the 2024 election and declare Donald Trump the winner. The joint session, which takes place on Jan. 6 every four years, is the final step after the Electoral College meets in December to officially elect the winner of the White House. At the center of the process are sealed electoral certificates from each state, which are brought into the House chamber in special mahogany boxes that are used for the occasion. Those same boxes were rushed to safety four years ago as rioters breached the Capitol. Bipartisan representatives of both chambers will read the results out loud and do an official count. No challenges to the results are expected this year, which means the process should move quickly. Vice President Kamala Harris, as president of the Senate, will preside over the session and certify her defeat to Trump. Trumps win has boosted Republicans faith in elections for now Four years ago, then-President Donald Trump urged supporters to head to the Capitol to protest Congress certification of Democrat Joe Bidens victory in the 2020 election. Will be wild! Trump promised on Twitter a few weeks before Jan. 6, 2021. And it was. This year, the only turbulence preceding the quadrennial ratification of the presidential election resulted from House Republicans fighting among themselves over who should be speaker. Read more on why the calm may be illusory Hundreds of Capitol riot prosecutions are in limbo as a DC court awaits Trumps White House return Its the largest prosecution in Justice Department history with reams of evidence, harrowing videos and hundreds of convictions of the rioters who stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Now Donald Trumps return to power has thrown into question the future of the more than 1,500 federal cases brought over the last four years. Jan. 6 trials, guilty pleas and sentencings have continued chugging along in Washingtons federal court despite Trumps promise to pardon rioters, whom hes called political prisoners and hostages he contends were treated too harshly. In a statement Monday, Attorney General Merrick Garland said Justice Department prosecutors have sought to hold accountable those criminally responsible for the January 6 attack on our democracy with unrelenting integrity. Read more about Jan. 6 prosecutions Harris will oversee certification of her defeat to Trump four years after he sparked Capitol attack Vice President Kamala Harris on Monday is set to preside over the certification of her defeat to Donald Trump four years after he tried to stop the very process that will now return him to the White House. In a video message, Harris described her role as a sacred obligation to ensure the peaceful transfer of power. As we have seen, our democracy can be fragile, she said. And it is up to each of us to stand up for our most cherished principles. Harris will be joining a short list of other vice presidents to oversee the ceremonial confirmation of their election loss as part of their role of presiding over the Senate. Richard Nixon did it after losing to John F. Kennedy in 1960. Al Gore followed suit when the U.S. Supreme Court tipped the 2000 election to George W. Bush. Read more about Vice President Kamala Harris No violence expected this year, but what happens in another four years? Whats unclear is if Jan. 6, 2021, was the anomaly, the year Americans violently attacked their own government, or if this years expected calm becomes the outlier. The U.S. is struggling to cope with its political and cultural differences at a time when democracy worldwide is threatened. Trump calls Jan. 6, 2021, a day of love. We should not be lulled into complacency, said Ian Bassin, executive director of the cross-ideological nonprofit Protect Democracy. He and others have warned that its historically unprecedented for U.S. voters to do what they did in November, reelecting Trump after he publicly refused to step aside last time. Returning to power an emboldened leader whos demonstrated his unwillingness to give it up is an unprecedentedly dangerous move for a free country to voluntarily take, Bassin said. Lawmakers brace for Trumps promised Jan. 6 pardons The fourth anniversary of the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol has a new focus as lawmakers brace for the prospect that President-elect Donald Trump may soon pardon many of the more than 1,500 people charged with crimes for their actions related to the riot. Read more about Trumps promises to issue pardons Congress is ready to certify Trumps election win, but his Jan. 6 legacy hangs over the day As Congress convenes during a winter storm to certify President-elect Donald Trumps election, the legacy of Jan. 6 hangs over the proceedings with an extraordinary fact: The candidate who tried to overturn the previous election won this time and is legitimately returning to power. Lawmakers will gather noontime Monday under the tightest national security level possible. Layers of tall black fencing flank the U.S. Capitol complex in a stark reminder of what happened four years ago, when a defeated Trump sent his mob to fight like hell in what became the most gruesome attack on the seat of American democracy in 200 years. No violence, protests or even procedural objections in Congress are expected this time. Republicans from the highest levels of power who challenged the 2020 election results when Trump lost to Democrat Joe Biden have no qualms this year after he defeated Vice President Kamala Harris. And Democrats frustrated by Trumps 312-226 Electoral College victory nevertheless accept the choice of the American voters. Even the snowstorm barreling down on the region wasnt expected to interfere with Jan. 6, the day set by law to certify the vote. Read more about what to expect today Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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). Congress certified President-elect Donald Trumps election under the tightest national security level possible. Layers of tall black fencing flank the U.S. Capitol complex in a stark reminder of what happened on January 6 four years ago. Here's the latest: Trump online said Congress was certifying a GREAT election victory and called it A BIG MOMENT IN HISTORY The days return to a U.S. tradition that launches the peaceful transfer of presidential power comes with an asterisk as Trump prepares to take office in two weeks with a revived sense of authority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He denies that he lost four years ago, muses about staying beyond the Constitutions two-term White House limit and promises to pardon some of the more than 1,250 people whove pleaded guilty or were convicted of crimes for the Capitol siege. Former Vice President Mike Pence applauds the return of order and civility to the certification process And he commended Vice President Kamala Harris for her role certifying her rivals win. He wrote on X that, The peaceful transfer of power is the hallmark of our democracy and that, today, members of both parties in the House and Senate along with the vice president certified the election of our new president and vice president without controversy or objection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also congratulated Trump on his win. Kamala Harris played her ceremonial role with perfunctory remarks and no rhetorical flourishes She passed copies of each states results to lawmakers, who read them out loud. When they finished, Harris announced the final results, and smiled tightly as Republicans applauded Donald Trumps victory. The entire process lasted less than 30 minutes. The chair declares this joint session dissolved, Harris said. Thank you. A stunningly ordinary certification comes to an end After going through all the certificates for 50 states and D.C., Congress anticlimactically certified the 2024 election for Trump and Vance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It happened with little fanfare with some members taking breaks from looking at the dais to check their phones or engage in conversations with their neighbors. Harris ended it with the words: The chair declares this joint session dissolved. She shook hands and kissed a few members on the cheek before being swept away. The tallying of the electoral votes has been completed Vice President Kamala Harris announced the tally as President-elect Donald Trump receiving 312 votes and Harris herself receiving 226 votes. Her announcements of both received raucous cheers in the chamber. When she announced Trumps victory, she smiled tightly as Republicans gave a standing ovation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democratic Rep. Pramila Jayapal says in post that we will not forget what happened during Jan. 6 riot Democrats who were trapped in the House gallery four years ago when Donald Trumps supporters were trying to break down the doors to the chamber posed for a photo in the same spot ahead of this years Jan. 6 certification. Washington Rep. Pramila Jayapal posted it on X and wrote we will not forget. JD Vance is sitting in the front row of the chamber as tellers count the votes of his own election victory The vice president-elect sat calmly as the chamber clapped for the announcement that his home state cast its electoral votes for the Trump-Vance ticket. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harris is handing the certificates to the people reading them As the results are announced, she stands with her hands clasped in front of her. The designated tellers have begun the formal process of reading each states electoral certificates Lawmakers clapped after the reading of each states results. The first state where electoral votes went to Vice President Kamala Harris and Tim Walz was California and received a round of applause from Democrats. The electoral certificate for Georgia going to Trump and Vance received an outburst of cheers from a few members of the GOP delegation, including staunch Trump ally Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vice President-elect JD Vance also walked down the path of the House floor He was greeted by Republican members. Vance will be in attendance as a senator as his and President-elect Donald Trumps victory is certified by Congress. Three boxes containing the official Electoral College tally were escorted across the Capitol by armed security Vice President Kamala Harris and members of the Senate were in tow. Senators filed into the House, greeting their House colleagues on both sides of the aisle Its a reunion for many, including new senators Adam Schiff of California and Ruben Gallego of Arizona who were until last week members of the House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many of the Republicans attending Mondays joint session say theyre prepared to vote to certify Trumps win But its unlikely there will be any voting Monday. The only time Congress votes on the Electoral College results is when someone lodges a successful objection to a states result. With Democrats not challenging the results of this election, the session should proceed mainly as a counting exercise. Congress voted twice on the results of the election in 2021, rejecting Republican challenges to President Joe Bidens victories in Arizona and Pennsylvania. The House convenes for a joint session to certify the election Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attendance on both sides of the aisle appears low after Washington received heavy snowfall overnight into Monday. There was mild applause for Vice President Kamala Harris as she arrived on to the House floor to a flurry of empty seats. Sen. Schumer criticizes the possibility of pardons for Jan. 6 rioters Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer says its shamefully, utterly outrageous that President-elect Donald Trump is considering pardons for those who participated in the breach of the Capitol four years ago. It would send a message to the country and to the world that those who use force to get their way will not be punished, said Schumer, as lawmakers gathered Monday to certify Trumps victory in Novembers presidential election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schumer paid tribute to law enforcement officers working at the Capitol four years ago and said pardoning the rioters would be reckless and an insult to the memory of those whose lives were lost in connection with that day. A rare GOP statement remembering the Jan. 6 attack As most of his colleagues deflected or wrote off the anniversary of the Jan 6 insurrection, Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, a moderate Pennsylvania Republican, honored the remarkable courage and sacrifice of the Capitol police who defended the Capitol that day. Their courage in the face of danger upheld the ideals of our nation and reminded us of the profound cost of defending freedom, he wrote on the social media site X. A Republican congressman downplays the violence that happened four years ago Rep. Mike Collins, R-Ga., described the riot that took place at the U.S. Capitol four years ago as a self-guided, albeit unauthorized, tour of the U.S. Capitol building and praised President Donald Trumps vow to pardon rioters who stormed the Capitol that day on social media. Since then, hundreds of peaceful protestors have been hunted down, arrested, held in solitary confinement, and treated unjustly, Collins wrote on X. Thankfully, President Trump has announced that, on day one of his presidency, he will grant pardons to nonviolent defendants. More than 1,250 people have pleaded guilty or were convicted of crimes for the Capitol siege. Collins statement downplayed the violence and disruption to the certification of the 2020 election four years ago. He described the armed mob as comprised of thousands of peaceful grandmothers in his post. Collins was elected to Congress in the 2022 midterms and campaigned on false claims that President Joe Biden had stolen the 2020 election. Hes known for often posting controversial, ironic and hard right statements online. Democrats release a flurry of Jan. 6 remembrance statements as the GOP remains quiet The four year anniversary of the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol is being marked Monday by a number of congressional Democrats, including current and former leaders as Republicans remained mostly silent as they prepare to certify the election of the man who incited that very mob. Rep. Nancy Pelosi, who was speaker when the insurrection happened, marked the occasion, saying the attack shook our Republic to its core. We must never forget the extraordinary courage of law enforcement officers on January 6th who stood in the breach and stared down the insurrectionists to protect the Capitol, the Congress and the Constitution, the California lawmaker said in a statement. Her successor, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries echoed her sentiment, saying the American people must never be allowed to the forget the events of Jan. 6. He added that history will always remember the attempted insurrection and we will never allow the violence that unfolded in plain sight to be whitewashed. Reminders of Jan. 6 attack fade in the Capitol Inside the Capitol, reminders of the violence are increasingly hard to find. Scars on the walls have been repaired. Windows and doors broken by the rioters have been replaced. And there's no plaque, display or remembrance of any kind. In some ways, its like the insurrection of Jan. 6, 2021, that shook the foundations of American democracy, never happened. Read more about how Jan. 6 isand isntbeing remembered An eerie day at the US Capitol On the morning of the certification, the U.S. Capitol was covered in snow with roads blocked off for miles as police hoped for a quiet day in Congress. At certain points, there were more officers than staff as many lawmakers were expected to be absent Monday due to the inclement weather. Its a stark difference from what transpired four years ago today as lawmakers, staff and reporters hid from a violent mob that overtook the Capitol building, leaving mayhem in their wake. Biden says Americans shouldnt forget the 2021 Capitol attack but there wont be a repeat this time President Joe Biden is decrying what he calls an unrelenting effort to downplay a mob of Donald Trump supporters overrunning the U.S. Capitol in an attempt to block certification of the 2020 election seeking to contrast that days chaos with what he promises will be an orderly transition returning Trump to power for a second term. In an opinion piece published Sunday in The Washington Post, Biden recalled Jan. 6, 2021, writing that violent insurrectionists attacked the Capitol. We should be proud that our democracy withstood this assault, Biden wrote. And we should be glad we will not see such a shameful attack again this year. Read more about Bidens opinion piece An overview of what will be happening at the Capitol Under heavy security, lawmakers in the snowy Capitol will gather at 1 p.m. ET to count the electoral votes in the 2024 election and declare Donald Trump the winner. The joint session, which takes place on Jan. 6 every four years, is the final step after the Electoral College meets in December to officially elect the winner of the White House. At the center of the process are sealed electoral certificates from each state, which are brought into the House chamber in special mahogany boxes that are used for the occasion. Those same boxes were rushed to safety four years ago as rioters breached the Capitol. Bipartisan representatives of both chambers will read the results out loud and do an official count. No challenges to the results are expected this year, which means the process should move quickly. Vice President Kamala Harris, as president of the Senate, will preside over the session and certify her defeat to Trump. Trumps win has boosted Republicans faith in elections for now Four years ago, then-President Donald Trump urged supporters to head to the Capitol to protest Congress certification of Democrat Joe Bidens victory in the 2020 election. Will be wild! Trump promised on Twitter a few weeks before Jan. 6, 2021. And it was. This year, the only turbulence preceding the quadrennial ratification of the presidential election resulted from House Republicans fighting among themselves over who should be speaker. Read more on why the calm may be illusory Hundreds of Capitol riot prosecutions are in limbo as a DC court awaits Trumps White House return Its the largest prosecution in Justice Department history with reams of evidence, harrowing videos and hundreds of convictions of the rioters who stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Now Donald Trumps return to power has thrown into question the future of the more than 1,500 federal cases brought over the last four years. Jan. 6 trials, guilty pleas and sentencings have continued chugging along in Washingtons federal court despite Trumps promise to pardon rioters, whom hes called political prisoners and hostages he contends were treated too harshly. In a statement Monday, Attorney General Merrick Garland said Justice Department prosecutors have sought to hold accountable those criminally responsible for the January 6 attack on our democracy with unrelenting integrity. Read more about Jan. 6 prosecutions Harris will oversee certification of her defeat to Trump four years after he sparked Capitol attack Vice President Kamala Harris on Monday is set to preside over the certification of her defeat to Donald Trump four years after he tried to stop the very process that will now return him to the White House. In a video message, Harris described her role as a sacred obligation to ensure the peaceful transfer of power. As we have seen, our democracy can be fragile, she said. And it is up to each of us to stand up for our most cherished principles. Harris will be joining a short list of other vice presidents to oversee the ceremonial confirmation of their election loss as part of their role of presiding over the Senate. Richard Nixon did it after losing to John F. Kennedy in 1960. Al Gore followed suit when the U.S. Supreme Court tipped the 2000 election to George W. Bush. Read more about Vice President Kamala Harris No violence expected this year, but what happens in another four years? Whats unclear is if Jan. 6, 2021, was the anomaly, the year Americans violently attacked their own government, or if this years expected calm becomes the outlier. The U.S. is struggling to cope with its political and cultural differences at a time when democracy worldwide is threatened. Trump calls Jan. 6, 2021, a day of love. We should not be lulled into complacency, said Ian Bassin, executive director of the cross-ideological nonprofit Protect Democracy. He and others have warned that its historically unprecedented for U.S. voters to do what they did in November, reelecting Trump after he publicly refused to step aside last time. Returning to power an emboldened leader whos demonstrated his unwillingness to give it up is an unprecedentedly dangerous move for a free country to voluntarily take, Bassin said. Lawmakers brace for Trumps promised Jan. 6 pardons The fourth anniversary of the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol has a new focus as lawmakers brace for the prospect that President-elect Donald Trump may soon pardon many of the more than 1,500 people charged with crimes for their actions related to the riot. Read more about Trumps promises to issue pardons Congress is ready to certify Trumps election win, but his Jan. 6 legacy hangs over the day As Congress convenes during a winter storm to certify President-elect Donald Trumps election, the legacy of Jan. 6 hangs over the proceedings with an extraordinary fact: The candidate who tried to overturn the previous election won this time and is legitimately returning to power. Lawmakers will gather noontime Monday under the tightest national security level possible. Layers of tall black fencing flank the U.S. Capitol complex in a stark reminder of what happened four years ago, when a defeated Trump sent his mob to fight like hell in what became the most gruesome attack on the seat of American democracy in 200 years. No violence, protests or even procedural objections in Congress are expected this time. Republicans from the highest levels of power who challenged the 2020 election results when Trump lost to Democrat Joe Biden have no qualms this year after he defeated Vice President Kamala Harris. And Democrats frustrated by Trumps 312-226 Electoral College victory nevertheless accept the choice of the American voters. Even the snowstorm barreling down on the region wasnt expected to interfere with Jan. 6, the day set by law to certify the vote. Read more about what to expect today ALTOONA, Pa. (WTAJ) What started with Winnie The Pooh has made its way to the latest public domain horror movie: Peter Pan. Thats right. Peter Pan entered the public domain and was greeted with a horror take on the classic kids story titled: Peter Pans Neverland Nightmare. It is the third installment of what is being called the TCU or Twisted Childhood Universe. The movie is set to come to AMC Theaters in Altoona for three showings only 7:30 p.m. from Jan. 13 15. Tickets can be purchased through Iconic Events by clicking here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Railroad City Cultural Center officially joins Gables building The film, directed by the man behind Winnie The Pooh: Blood and Honey 2, Scott Jeffery, will see Wendy on a quest to save her little brother from the clutches of Peter Pan. Along the way, Wendy will meet Tinker Bell, who takes a different kind of pixie dust, according to IMDb. British actor Martin Portlock plays Peter Pan while the relatively new Megan Placito portrays Wendy Darling. You can view the Peter Pans Neverland Nightmare trailer by clicking here (caution: blood and gore are featured). 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. The movie is co-produced by ITN Studios, who, according to their website, will also release Bambi: The Reckoning in 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Laughlin Air Force Base in Texas bid farewell to its last T-1A Jayhawk last month, as the Air Force continues its drive to retire the heavy aircraft trainer. Laughlins last Jayhawk, from the 86th Flying Training Squadron, took off from the base Dec. 17. It joined a pair of T-6A Texan IIs and a pair of T-38C Talons as the centerpiece of a five-plane flyover, which twice passed over Laughlins airfield and air traffic control tower. After the other planes split off, the T-1 continued to its final resting place at The Boneyard, an airplane graveyard at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona. We stand on the shoulders of giants, Lt. Col. Nathan Hedden, commander of the 86th, said in a Thursday release. All of the [pilots] who have done this before have left a legacy of excellent performance and excellent training. This unit has offered so much to the Air Force. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Airmen have learned the basics of piloting cargo planes or tanker aircraft by flying T-1s for more than three decades. But the twin-engine jet originally built by Raytheon subsidiary Beech is aging, and the Air Force started paring down its fleet of 177 T-1s in 2023. The Air Force had 75 T-1s last year, and aims to further cut them to 53 in 2025 as the service prepares to bring on the new T-7A Redhawk trainer. The Air Force said in early 2022, when announcing plans to start retiring the Jayhawk, that new pilot training techniques, such as virtual reality, would allow it to phase out the T-1. Improvements to the T-6 would also let aspiring pilots learn to fly mobility planes on a single aircraft, the Air Force said. This is allowing the service to retire the least-capable T-1s, which would otherwise need to have their engines replaced. Aspiring Air Force pilots first fly the T-6 during undergraduate pilot training, and then roughly 900 students are selected to move on to learn to fly mobility aircraft. Under the old system, those students flew the T-1 for about five months before moving on to more mobility-specific lessons. But the Air Force is moving to a simulator-based system that allows those students to learn advanced flight skills much more quickly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Laughlins 47th Flying Training Wing will keep teaching students to fly in the T-6 and T-38C Talon until the T-7 comes online. The 99th Flying Training Squadron at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph in Texas said goodbye to its last Jayhawk in July 2024, which also flew to Davis-Monthan for retirement. WHITE PINE, Tenn. (WATE) The White Pine Police Department and the Jefferson County Sheriffs Office will conduct a joint law enforcement training exercise on Monday, January 6. The training will take place at Lakeway Christian Academy in White Pine from noon to approximately 4 p.m., the White Pine Police Department announced. There may be traffic delays in the area during this time, so the department encouraged people to plan ahead. Knoxville Ice Bears goal lands on SportsCenter Top 10 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To effectively manage the situation, message boards and officers will be stationed in the area, WPPD wrote. Throughout the training, you will see law enforcement vehicles, fire apparatus, and EMS units actively participating on-site. Other groups will be involved in addition to WPPD and JCSO including: White Pine Fire Department Jefferson County EMS/EMA Jefferson County 911 Tennessee Department of Homeland Security Tennessee Highway Patrol Lakeway Christian Academy staff PHOTOS: TDOT crews treat roadways after winter weather Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A service providing free legal help to students has a goal of removing barriers preventing people from achieving the academic and career goals that matter most to them. | Scales of justice photo via Getty Images Creative Having access to free legal advice might not seem like a high priority for higher education, but for some students pursuing a bachelors degree from a four-year university or an associates degree at a vocational technical college, legal problems can be a significant obstacle. The Wisconsin Examiners Criminal Justice Reporting Project shines a light on incarceration, law enforcement and criminal justice issues with support from the Public Welfare Foundation Fortunately, students in Wisconsins public universities, technical colleges and two tribal colleges, have access to a free legal resource. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Law for Learners, created in 2019, is a program offered in Wisconsin by the non-profit Ascendium whose focus is removing barriers preventing people from achieving the academic and career goals that matter most to them. It began at Madison College and the Milwaukee Area Technical College and then expanded to all the public technical colleges. The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater was the first of the UW system schools to offer Law for Learners for college students, and then in January 2024 Ascendium signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the entire UW system and the service became available statewide in the spring of 2024. Originally called Lawyers for Learners, it has served 3,400 students over the last 5 years Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most of the issues the group deals with are family related (27%), such as alimony, child custody and placement, child support, divorce and legal separation, guardianship of a minor or paternity. Housing issues make up about 18% of cases, including evictions, housing rights violations, security deposit returns and unsafe housing concerns. Criminal matters (14%of cases) have been the third highest area of concern, addressing background checks, expungement of convictions and pardons. Rebecca Rapp, on-staff general counsel for Ascendium Education Group in Madison, said expunging a conviction or obtaining a pardon, especially for felony, could make the difference in whether a college student could even have a future career in a field, such as medicine, where a felony record could mean limited job prospects. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People get things pardoned or expunged and then its off their record, she said, but, I think, its helpful that they also realize if they cant get it pardoned or expunged and its just going to be there, its better to know that before you incur debt and spend time training for a profession that youre not going to be able to likely practice in, so getting that knowledge, I think, is just as important as the successful outcome of getting something removed. Since Law for Learners expanded to the entire UW system, 328 students have been served. At the UW-Green Bay, 18 students have received help with issues involving family law, drivers license recovery, employment, immigration, public benefits, criminal records and housing. Mark Olkowski, Associate Dean of Students at UW-Green Bay, said most students dont even consider seeking legal advice because they think it is unaffordable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Typically, Olkwoski said, students discover Law for Learners when talking to an advisor. He said Law for Learners has trained university employees to listen for concerns/stressors when meeting with students. Most students dont come in and say, Im having this legal problem, he said. Its more like they are meeting with an advisor and theyre sharing some stressor, like a custody issue with an ex spouse or they are having issues with their landlord, and the advisor responds, This sounds like youre dealing with a legal issue. Would you like to talk to somebody that can help you with that? Through that conversation, the academic advisor can say, We actually have a service available and heres the website; heres how you can submit your request for assistance, and then they reach out and set up an appointment with the student, said Olkowski. Rapp said 65% of the intakes are from students who were informed by staff members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So we really count on the staff, she said. Most people dont know that they have a legal issue. They just know their landlord is being a jerk so they know they are not getting their security deposit back, or they have this criminal record and they cant get a certain job. If youre in a divorce, you obviously know its a legal matter, but there are a whole range of things people dont even know its a legal issue. Most students, Rapp said, will only receive an hour of free service and rarely would Law for Learners represent a client in court. The range of services offered depends on the matter, she said, so if there is an expungement or a pardon, we may give somebody full-scale representation. If somebody has, like, a divorce or a family law matter, well generally see them for an hour consultation. We can help them fill out forms. They can come back multiple times sort of a serial, limited scope representation. More information on Law for Learners is available online at https://www.lawforlearners.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Students can also just search their institutions website. For example, a search of UW-Eau Claire website for Law for Learners led to a page for Free, confidential legal help available for all UWEC students. Also on Youtube, there are several information videos available by searching Lawyers for Learners (the former name of Law for Learners). Videos cover such issues as tax tips, rental housing rights, modifying a legal custody or physical placement order in Wisconsin, getting security deposit back, drivers license reinstatement, arrest and court records in Wisconsin and more. Often Law for Learners is the first step. Lawyers connect clients with other organizations, such as Judicare Legal Aid, which provides free civil legal services to low income persons living in Northern Wisconsin and to Native Americans statewide. But even when a student realizes he or she has a legal issue, Rapp said, they may have had a negative experience with the law or dont even know where to start. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres a lot of rural communities that are considered legal deserts in Wisconsin that dont even really have any attorneys, she said, and then we know our legal aid organizations, even for eligible clients, have a turn-away rate of 50% or more a lot of times, just due to lack of capacity and funding. So all thats in the mix. While private attorneys can charge $300 an hour for their services, Law for Learners services are free. Ascendum pretty much has been funding this through grants and other things, said Rapp. She noted that the UW system doesnt contribute toward Law for Learners, but that could change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ascendium is committed to removing barriers to education and employment, Rapp said, to help people get their criminal records cleaned up or get pardons or other things that can open up career paths that they wouldnt otherwise have, and that, frankly, are in demand. Testimonies provided by Law for Learners include a UW graduate now a medical student who had a non-criminal ticket dismissed, who said, Law for learners is such a generous program that really helped me when I thought I had no other actions. Another testimony provided is from a Madison College graduate who had worked with the unhoused and those entangled with the criminal legal system, who received two pardons with Law for Learners assistance, and said, My previous conception of lawyers has been completely flipped. I am so grateful for people like yourself from a personal perspective as well as the hope it provides for our society in the years to come. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (WTNH) Monday morning, the gym of Bridgeports Luis Munoz Marin Elementary School was full of kids and their families, but there was no school. They came out to celebrate Three Kings Day, a holiday mostly celebrated in the Latin American community. Its also known as Epiphany. Hundreds celebrate 3 Kings Day in New Haven It celebrates the story of the three wise men who traveled to Bethlehem to bring gifts to the baby Jesus. Right now, it is only observed in a handful of Connecticut municipalities, but one lawmaker wants to change that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre either from Mexico, Puerto Rico, and in these Latin American countries, they do celebrate Three Kings Day, said Maria Ines Valle, a Bridgeport City council member and part of the committee that organized this years celebration. In different cities around Connecticut, there are parades, some with actual camels, and always gifts for the children. Its a religious holiday, but also its a cultural holiday, and its understanding cultural awareness and cultural sensitivity all in one, Bridgeport City Council President Aidee Nieves (D) said. Understanding the importance of what it means for Three Kings and the continued celebration of the holiday of Christmas. In Bridgeport, Three Kings Day has been a school holiday for decades, but what they were finding was families from nearby towns were bringing their children to Bridgeports celebrations, which means they were getting marked as absent in their home schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Right now, we have about eight or nine municipalities that are observing it, celebrate it, said State Rep. Christopher Rosario (D) Deputy House Speaker. Children have the day off from school, but unfortunately, not everybody celebrates it. Rosario wants to change that. He wants to pass a bill officially observing Three Kings Day all over the state. Schools would not have to close, but they would have to recognize the right to observe it. We want to make sure children have the opportunity to do so, Rosario said. Even if the school district does not observe the holiday, theyre allowed to do so without getting an absence. Rosario thinks the bill stands a good chance of passing in the legislative session, which starts Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. TALLAHASSEE For nearly a century, the mockingbird has reigned supreme as the state bird of Florida, surviving multiple coup attempts by the Florida Legislature. Once again, a lawmaker this year wants to dethrone the bird known for its lilting sounds. Islamorada Republican Rep. Jim Mooneys bill would actually designate two birds in its place: the American Flamingo as the state bird and the Florida scrub-jay as the state songbird. Mooney, who filed a similar bill last year, could not be reached for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As with past attempts, his bill will likely inspire much debate about which feathered species is most appropriate to represent the Sunshine State when the Legislature convenes for its regular spring session on March 4. Being named the state bird wont confer any added protection to the scrub-jay, which is already protected as a threatened species, but it is still important as an entry point to talking about conservation, said Julie Wraithmell, executive director for Audubon Florida. Being a state bird is symbolic and meaningful, and gets school children excited, she said. Generations of school children have been working on this as an exercise in civic engagement and democracy. A group of high school students from Seminole County mounted an effort to get the Legislature to replace the mockingbird with the Florida scrub-jay in 1999, and subsequent groups have continued the push, with no luck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Past arguments have gone like this: Mockingbirds, although lovely songbirds, are not unique to Florida and are the state birds of Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee and Texas. The mockingbirds range stretches from Nova Scotia to El Salvador and as far west as California. Florida adopted the mockingbird as its state bird in 1927. Former state Rep. Howard Futch of Indialantic, who died in 2003, attempted to replace it with the Florida scrub-jay in 1998, but got his wings clipped. I have never thought the mockingbird made sense, former Republican State Sen. Jeff Brandes of St. Petersburg said when he introduced his bill to rescind the mockingbirds designation in 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The threatened Florida scrub-jay is the only bird that lives exclusively in the Sunshine State, which Sen. Tina Polsky, D-Boca Raton, pointed out when she introduced her bill to make it the state bird a few years ago. Developers have historically fought off past attempts to name it the state bird because they worried it would make it harder to develop land where the tiny, scrappy bird is found nesting. The now-retired National Rifle Association lobbyist Marion Hammer fought for years to kill scrub-jay legislation, once saying the birds willingness to eat out of a persons hand just proved it had a welfare mentality and arguing that it made no sense to designate it as the state bird since it would soon become extinct. But unlike the mockingbird, which has a rich and varied voice, the scrub-jay has a song that can be most kindly described as non-musical. The Audubon Bird Guide describes its song as a flat, harsh shriek. Cornell Lab of Ornithologys All About Birds website describes it as a scratchy weep, a harsh scold, a guttural growl and a long shek-shek-shek series. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In recent years, lawmakers have introduced another potential contender for state bird, the American Flamingo, but those efforts also failed. While not exclusively a resident of Florida, the pink spoon-billed bird with its iconic one-legged silhouette, is synonymous with the state tourism industry and the symbol of the state lottery. No other state has adopted the flamingo as its state bird, but it is the national bird of the Bahamas. The fourth anniversary of the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol has a new focus as lawmakers brace for the prospect that President-elect Donald Trump may soon pardon many of the more than 1,500 people charged with crimes for their actions related to the riot. Trump said he would issue pardons to rioters on Day 1 of his presidency, which begins Jan. 20. Most likely, Ill do it very quickly, he said recently on NBCs Meet the Press. He added that those people have suffered long and hard. And there may be some exceptions to it. I have to look. But, you know, if somebody was radical, crazy. His promise, made throughout his campaign for the White House, is shadowing events Monday as lawmakers gather to certify a presidential election for the first time since 2021, when Trumps supporters breached the Capitol and temporarily halted the certification of an election he lost to Democrat Joe Biden. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., said she has spoken at length with Trump and is lobbying him to pardon everyone who participated in the siege. Few Republicans are going that far, but many believe its appropriate for Trump to look at pardons on a case-by-case basis. Here we are nearly four years later. Many of these people have been in prison since 2021. Even the ones that fought Capitol Police, caused damage to the Capitol, I think theyve served their time and I think they should all be pardoned and released from prison, Greene said. Some of these people have been given prison sentences: 10 years, 18 years and more. I think its an injustice. Its a two-tiered justice system, and its time to end it. More than 1,250 have pleaded guilty or been convicted after trials in connection with Jan. 6, with more than 650 receiving prison time ranging from a few days to 22 years. Many of those who broke into the Capitol were echoing Trumps false claims about election fraud. Some rioters menacingly called out the names of prominent politicians particularly then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and then-Vice President Mike Pence, who refused to try to object to Bidens win. Lawmakers who had evacuated both chambers on Jan. 6 returned that night to finish their work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police officers who defended the Capitol are particularly incensed about the possible pardons. Many officers were beaten, some with their own weapons, as they tried to hold back the mob. About 140 officers were injured on Jan. 6, making it likely the largest single day mass assault of law enforcement in American history, Matthew Graves, the outgoing U.S. attorney in the nations capital, has said. You cannot be pro-police officer and rule of law if you are pardoning people who betrayed that trust, injured police officers and ransacked the Capitol, said Capitol Police Sgt. Aquilino Gonell, who retired due to his injuries after fighting rioters. Some Republicans in Congress, even those closely aligned with Trump, suggested not all Jan. 6 offenders should be treated the same. Rep. Jim Jordan, a top Trump ally who leads the House Judiciary Committee, said he supported some pardons, but also made a distinction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For people who didnt commit any violence, I think everyone supports that. I think that makes sense, said Jordan, R-Ohio. Veteran Republican Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-Fla., also wasnt ready to go as far as Greene. Youve got to look at it individually. Some probably deserve to be pardoned, he said. But he was more reticent when asked if those who attacked U.S. Capitol police officers should be among those pardoned. My goodness. Again, Id have to look at the scenario, he said. But if they attacked the U.S. Capitol Police, its a big problem. Rep. Dusty Johnson, R-S.D., said not every single charge is the same and that people who were trespassing are a different category from those who entered the Capitol and damaged property. He said he believes Trump will look at each individual circumstance and decide what is appropriate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People who attacked police officers, listen, I dont think that is something we should ever condone, Johnson said. House Democrats, who led the drive to impeach Trump over Jan. 6 and conducted a wide-ranging investigation into the attack, warned that the pardons could have far-reaching consequences, both for the rule of law and the security of the country. Members of the extremist Oath Keepers and Proud Boys, for instance, were convicted of seditious conspiracy and other crimes in relation to the insurrection. Those 140-odd law enforcement people who got hurt defending this institution, I think anyone who loves peace and security would be offended that you would pardon people who attacked those individuals for doing their jobs, said Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss. Thompson led the House committee that investigated the events surrounding Jan. 6, concluding with a report that said Trump lit the fire for the insurrection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., who served as lead impeachment manager during Trumps second impeachment trial in which he was acquitted, said if pardons are going to happen, people should demand contrition and repentance from each of those pardoned and an affirmative statement they pose no further threat to public safety. Because anything that happens by these people, in a political context or some other context, will essentially be laid at the doorstep soon-to-be President Donald Trump, Raskin said. Like police officers who protected them, lawmakers who were in the Capitol during the attack have a visceral reaction to the pardon talk, having barely escaped a mob that seemed determined to do them harm. Rep. Jim Himes, D-Conn., who was trapped in the House gallery as rioters tried to break in below, said it would be extraordinarily difficult for him and many others if Trump goes ahead with the pardons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im pretty controlled and pretty disciplined, but that would be really hard, Himes said. Too many of us had very personal experiences with the people who are serving time or were convicted. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Senate President Mattie Daughtry (right) discusses possible rule changes during a meeting of the Joint Rules Committee in Augusta on Jan. 6. (Photo by Emma Davis/ Maine Morning Star) After months of lengthy discussions and sharp criticism from the public and legislators of both parties, lawmakers are nearing agreement on how to fix transparency issues related to vague placeholder bills. While still working out the specifics, the majority of the Joint Rules Committee, which oversees the rules that govern legislative business, indicated during a Monday meeting that it supports requiring that these bills, known as concept drafts, have substantial proposals posted online at least two days before the public hearing for the bill. And if that deadline is not met, the bill will be automatically killed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The committee plans to settle on a joint order on Thursday for rule changes for concept drafts as well as several other matters aimed to increase transparency and efficiency in the lawmaking process, which will then be sent to the full Legislature for consideration. The Legislature can make changes to the joint rules with a majority vote before Jan. 17. Beyond that, two-thirds support would be needed for any such changes. The narrowed agreement on Monday comes after lawmakers heard a slew of proposals over the course of two lengthy meetings this past summer and fall in response to growing frustration with the increased use of concept drafts that dont provide sufficient information about what the bill will be about. Revisor of Statutes Edward Charbonneau said, as of Monday, roughly a dozen concept drafts have already been submitted this session, though he added that he believes them to be, legitimate concepts, where the sponsors have an issue they are aiming to address but are seeking more clarity on how precisely to do it. Committee co-chair Sen. Anne Carney (D-Cumberland) cited the fact that lawmakers have already begun to file bills as a reason to introduce less restrictive reforms now and see how they work before tackling sweeping change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We dont want to prejudice people who, last week when they submitted that legislation, were in compliance with the rules, Carney said. While indicating that he ultimately intends to support the proposed restrictions, Sen. Rick Bennett (R-Oxford) also recommended going a step further. Keeping with his earlier stance that concept drafts are unnecessary, he proposed banning concept drafts, aside from the budget bill and model legislation adopted from other states or uniform laws, and allowing lawmakers who already filed concept drafts an extension past cloture, the day bills are due to the Revisors Office, to create fleshed out proposals. Some members shared his view, including Senate Minority Leader Trey Stewart (R-Aroostook), but the majority of the committee was opposed, arguing the plan would also eliminate some benefits of concept drafts, such as affording committee chairs the space to submit bills to address issues that become more clear as the session progresses. As of Monday afternoon, lawmakers still disagreed on some specifics of the proposal expected to be recommended to the full Legislature. For example, the committee is divided on the standard that would make an amendment sufficient, whether that means meeting the typical standard of the Revisors Office for bills to be sent to the floor or another bar that simply provides the public with enough information to know how theyd want to testify. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The legislators also discussed recommending that certain committees further extend the time required for concept draft amendments to be posted online before hearings, particularly those like the Judiciary Committee that often consider lengthy and complex bills, such as the data privacy proposals last session. Discussion around how to restrict voting between 10:30 p.m. and 7:30 a.m another point of contention last session led to some disagreement. The current joint rules already state that committees cant vote on bills during that time frame unless authorized by the presiding officers. Bennett proposed an addition to specify that any votes during that time frame be invalid, arguing that a properly functioning organization shouldnt be voting during those hours. Senate Majority Leader Teresa Pierce (D-Falmouth) and Senate President Mattie Daughtry (D-Brunswick) argued that the rule as it stands provides needed flexibility to allow late night votes when deadlines are looming or to get work done before an impending storm, for example. The committee unanimously indicated support for a proposal raised by Speaker of the House Ryan Fecteau (D-Biddeford) to allow for the Senate secretary and House clerk to refer most bills to committee rather than taking up time on the floor for committee chairs to make a motion, reverting back to a process the Legislature allowed during the COVID-19 pandemic when Fecteau last served as speaker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Along with the committees intent to settle on a joint order by Thursday, it plans to prepare a memo to the presiding officers that suggest policy and procedure changes to make lawmaking more transparent outside the joint rules. The presiding officers, Fecteau and Daughtry, have already started to make some procedural changes in light of concerns raised in previous rules meetings, such as prioritizing committee work during the first several weeks of the legislative session by limiting House and Senate session days to Tuesdays. Although the rules committee is required to meet annually, it met for the first time since 2018 this past summer. However, the group intends to meet more regularly moving forward. Carney suggested meeting both halfway through and at the end of the first regular session to assess how well rule changes pan out and to recommend any necessary tweaks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bennett said at the halfway mark he intends to propose changes related to the budgeting process, particularly to clarify which bills end up on the appropriations table, where legislation frequently dies a quiet death. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Jan. 6Ohio's 136th General Assembly will be sworn in and leadership positions will be cemented today as seven Miami Valley lawmakers enter new roles in the area's 19-member delegation. All 19 Miami Valley legislators will be entering a Statehouse that has a similar GOP supermajority to years past. But, Republicans in both the House and the Senate will hope for a smoother start than they had in the 135th General Assembly, in which a contentious race for House Speaker ultimately decided by a marginal Democratic caucus fractured the House GOP caucus and forged a gap between Republican leaders of the state's two chambers. New leadership Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If preliminary leadership elections in November match today's official vote, there will be new Republican leadership in both the Ohio House and the Ohio Senate. Meanwhile, Democrats are primed to stick with House Minority Leader Allison Russo, D-Upper Arlington, and Senate Minority Leader Nickie Antonio, D-Lakewood, to lead their superminority caucuses over the next two years. The House is set to be led by Matt Huffman, a Lima Republican whose official reign as Senate President ends when he swears in as a new House member today. He'll be joined by an expansive elected leadership team, which includes Montgomery County Rep. Phil Plummer, R-Butler Twp., who is set to serve as Assistant House Speaker Pro Tempore. In the Senate, president-elect Rob McColley, a Republican from Napoleon, is set to take charge of the chamber later today. He'll be joined by a leadership team that includes Butler County Sen. George Lang, R-West Chester, who will undertake a leadership role for the first time in his state legislative career. Over the past few years, McColley and Huffman shared a close working relationship in the Senate, which suggests a more cohesive relationship between the House and the Senate in the 136th General Assembly compared to the 135th. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Incoming members Miami Valley's incoming members to the Ohio General Assembly include: Willis Blackshear, Jr., a Dayton Democrat who served two terms in the House before successfully running to replace four-year Sen. Niraj Antani, R-Miami Twp., in the Ohio Senate. Blackshear's win in Senate District 6 was one of four seats gained in November's election. Desiree Tims, a Dayton Democrat and president of the think tank Innovation Ohio, will take over for Blackshear in the Ohio House in her first term as an elected official. Kyle Koehler, a Springfield Republican who formerly spent eight years in the Ohio House before a brief political hiatus. He'll be sworn in to take over for outgoing Sen. Bob Hackett, R-London, who spent eight years in the role. Diane Mullins, a Republican pastor from Hamilton set to enter her first elected position in state government after unseating six-year Rep. Sara Carruthers, R-Hamilton, in a 2024 primary. Michelle Teska, a Clearcreek Twp. Republican and business owner set to take her first oath of office. She'll take over for outgoing Rep. Scott Lipps, R-Franklin, who spent eight years in the role. Levi Dean, a Xenia Republican, business owner, and son of outgoing Rep. Bill Dean, R-Xenia, who spent eight years in the seat. Levi Dean previously served on Xenia city council. Johnathan Newman, a Southern Baptist pastor and Republican out of Troy who is set to take over for outgoing Rep. Jena Powell, R-Arcanum, who spent six years in the role. ------ For more stories like this, sign up for our Ohio Politics newsletter. It's free, curated, and delivered straight to your inbox every Thursday evening. Avery Kreemer can be reached at 614-981-1422, on X, via email, or you can drop him a comment/tip with the survey below. Loading... The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the American Petroleum Institute sued the state of Vermont in federal court last week over its Climate Superfund Act. The plaintiffs argue that the law violates both the U.S. Constitution and the federal Clean Air Act. If they prevail, other state superfunds, such as New York's, are likely to face similar challenges. Vermont's law, which passed through both chambers of the state legislature with overwhelming support, fines domestic energy producers to fund a climate change adaptation project. (This program aims to help "human and natural communities"left undefined"households, and businesses in preparing for future climate-change-driven disruptions.") Like the New York superfund, Vermont's assesses entities that released at least a billion metric tons of carbon dioxide through fossil fuel extraction or crude oil refinement. But while New York hits companies that did this over an 18-year period, the covered period in Vermont stretches across three decades, from January 1995 to January 2025. Vermont Treasurer Mike Pieciak has not yet released an estimate of how money the state plans to demand under the law, but in July he called for "expert opinions and advice" to calculate specific fossil fuel companies' "relative share of climate-related loss and damage that Vermont has experienced over the past 30 years." That information-gathering process ended in October, but the results have yet to be announced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The plaintiffs present five principal objections to the law: First, they say it violates the Constitution's Supremacy Clause, since greenhouse gas emissions qualify as "pollutants" under the federal Clean Air Act and are thus regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency. Second, they say it violates the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment by imposing retroactive penalties arbitrarily and irrationally. Third, they say it violates the Commerce Clause by "targeting energy producers headquartered in other States." Fourth, they say it violates the Eighth Amendment's Excessive Takings Clause by selectively penalizing domestic energy producers while ignoring "the myriad end users across the world who emit the majority of greenhouse gas emissions." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last, they say it violates the Fifth Amendment's Takings Clause by imposing "a substantial and disproportionate penaltyon a select group of covered energy products." The Climate Superfund Act became law without the signature of Gov. Phil Scott. Scott, a Republican, objected to the lack of coordination with larger states, such New York and California. He also felt the law appropriated too little ($600,000) to conduct a robust climate impact analysis and expressed concern that the legislation would invite "intense legal scrutiny from a well-funded defense." On that last matter, at least, he was clearly correct. The post Lawsuit Challenges Vermont Climate Program appeared first on Reason.com. A lawyer for the former leader of the Proud Boys has asked President-elect Trump to consider issuing him a full and complete pardon for his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack. Nayib Hassan, who represents Enrique Tarrio, wrote in a Jan. 6 letter to Trump that the ex-Proud Boys national chair was targeted by the Biden administration for his political views. Tarrio is currently serving a 22-year sentence after he was convicted of seditious conspiracy for his role in a plot to subvert the 2020 presidential election results by force. Henry Enrique Tarrio was portrayed throughout the Governments case as a right-wing extremist that promoted a neo-fascist militant organization, Hassan wrote in the Jan. 6 letter, obtained by The Hill. Henry is nothing more than a proud American that believes in true conservative values. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the letter, Hassan noted that Tarrio was not at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, after being ordered out of the city following a previous arrest for burning a stolen Black Lives Matter banner and accused the government of prosecuting Tarrio and four other Proud Boys for expressing their freedom of expression. He said Tarrio would honor a pardon with the respect, gratitude and integrity it deserves. The letter has already been sent to people on Trumps team, Hassan said. Prosecutors said at trial that Tarrio spearheaded the Proud Boyss efforts to assemble in droves and descend on Washington after Trump sent a message to his supporters to be there, will be wild! Though Tarrio was not at the Capitol that day, several of his top lieutenants were at the front of the mob and pushing it forward. Three of them Joe Biggs, Ethan Nordean and Zachary Rehl were convicted of seditious conspiracy alongside Tarrio at trial in 2023. A fourth Proud Boy tried in that group, Dominic Pezzola, used a stolen police riot shield to smash open a Capitol window, letting in the first members of the mob; he was acquitted of sedition, but convicted of other serious felonies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biggs, a Florida Proud Boy and onetime correspondent for the far-right website Infowars, previously sought a pardon from Trump. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. In the remote village of Panzi, nestled deep within Kwango province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a deadly outbreak has emerged. Between October 24 and December 5, 2024, the WHO reported 406 cases and 31 deaths linked to a mysterious disease that disproportionately impacted children. Patients presented with fever, headaches, cough, fatigue, and runny noses, but severe complications such as difficulty breathing, acute anaemia, and malnutrition proved fatal, with over 70 per cent of deaths occurring in children under the age of 15. After weeks of investigation, health officials identified severe malaria as the cause of illness. Acute malnutrition due to food insecurity, inadequate diagnostics, and a fragile healthcare system with limited access to essential medications significantly contributed to the high mortality rate. These factors created a perfect storm of vulnerability, with delayed diagnoses and treatment compounding the severity of cases. Local health posts, already operating with minimal resources, were unable to meet the surge in demand, leaving many patients without the life-saving care they needed. The crisis underscores the urgent need for strengthening healthcare infrastructure and addressing underlying social determinants of health in the region. The malaria outbreak in Panzi is more than an urgent humanitarian crisis it is a stark reminder of the fragility of global health systems and the need to prepare for both emerging and known infectious diseases. The world must act swiftly, not only to address this immediate crisis but to strengthen health systems in DRC and other resource limited settings to prevent future outbreaks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DRC has long battled infectious disease crises, from recurring Ebola outbreaks to cholera and measles, repeatedly straining its health system. Malaria kills approximately 600,000 people annually around the world, with 12 per cent of those deaths occurring in DRC. Given the prevalence of malaria in the country, there should be better systems in place to prevent, diagnose, and treat this deadly disease. The prolonged failure to diagnose malaria reveals a deeper vulnerability: the lack of robust diagnostics and health infrastructure to quickly identify and contain threats. In areas where poverty, malnutrition, and limited access to life-saving tools like diagnostics, medicines, and vaccines persist, the risk of outbreaks rises sharply. While this undiagnosed illness was identified as malaria, a disease with known therapeutics and vaccines, these have not been readily available to those infected, highlighting systemic gaps that endanger not only the DRC but global health security. The first step in managing any outbreak is determining its cause. While malaria has been identified as the primary culprit behind the mysterious outbreak, experts are investigating whether co-infections or additional factors are contributing to the high death toll. Ongoing testing and surveillance aim to clarify the full extent of the outbreak and rule out other potential causes. This continued uncertainty weeks after the outbreak was declared underscores the critical need for improved diagnostic tools and coordinated efforts to better understand the outbreak so life-saving interventions can be implemented. Deploying point-of-care (POC) and rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) through strengthened local labs, mobile laboratories, and trained health workers can transform outbreak response by delivering quick, on-site results for infections such as Covid-19, HIV, Influenza and malaria. These portable tools enable timely treatment, reduce reliance on distant labs, and improve access in underserved areas. Thus, availability of these tools is critical for early detection of diseases, linkage to appropriate healthcare, and outbreak control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the DRC, many clinics lack even basic tools like thermometers, let alone advanced diagnostics. Imagine a health worker in a one-room clinic with limited electricity, forced to rely on visual inspections to diagnose a child with fever and shortness of breath symptoms that could indicate a range of illnesses. Without local diagnostic capabilities, samples must be transported over unpaved roads to distant urban laboratories, often taking days to arrive and delaying results by days or even weeks. In Panzi, the absence of essential diagnostic tools left health workers unable to identify and treat malaria, a common and treatable disease, resulting in numerous preventable deaths. Equally critical to diagnostics is ensuring that sick patients have access to high-quality clinical care. In many parts of DRC, the lack of resources at rural healthcare facilities delays life-saving treatment. In Panzi, patients with high fevers and severe fatigue arrived at under-resourced health centres where health workers were forced to rely on guesswork. Basic medicines, including anti-malarials, intravenous fluids, and pain medications were either unavailable or in short supply, compounding the crisis. Global health stakeholders including governments, non-governmental organisations, and the private sector must prioritise investments in affordable, accessible diagnostics and high-quality clinical care. Strengthening health systems is not only a technical necessity but a moral imperative and strategic investment in global health security. Fragile systems with limited diagnostics and inadequate treatment delay care, enabling outbreaks to spiral out of control, spread harm, and prolong suffering. Investing in essential medicines, diagnostics, and infrastructure is vital to treating known diseases and building resilience against emerging pathogens. In our interconnected world, localised outbreaks can quickly escalate into global crises, as demonstrated by Covid-19. Investing in diagnostics, surveillance, data-sharing systems, and preparedness frameworks strengthens health systems to prevent, contain, and mitigate outbreaks. Surveillance involves real-time monitoring through community reporting, laboratory testing, and genomic sequencing to detect disease hotspots early. Data-sharing systems facilitate swift communication of findings among clinics, health ministries, and global organisations, enabling a coordinated response. Preparedness frameworks encompass emergency plans, stockpiles of medicines, mobile laboratories, and trained health workers ready to respond. Together, these systems enable swift detection and intervention, preventing outbreaks from escalating and saving lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The experience in DRC also highlights the need for equitable health interventions. The global response to the ongoing mpox emergency reveals similar failures: inequitable vaccine distribution and delayed action in the most affected regions, particularly in Africa, have exacerbated the crisis. While high-income countries secured vaccines swiftly during the global outbreak in 2022, African nations where Clade I mpox was spreading and had a higher fatality rate were left waiting for doses, leaving communities vulnerable. By the time vaccines and resources arrived, the outbreak had already spread to new regions and populations, straining fragile health systems and increasing mortality. These disparities reflect systemic neglect, where life-saving tools are allocated based on economic power rather than need. To ensure equity, the international community must establish vaccine and treatment stockpiles, invest in regional manufacturing hubs, and expand financing tools like the Pandemic Fund to support resource limited countries. Transparent data-sharing and real-time needs assessments can further ensure resources are allocated fairly, protecting vulnerable populations and preventing local outbreaks from becoming global crises. The outbreak in Panzi is a stark reminder that the cost of inaction is far too high. The undiagnosed malaria crisis in the DRC, which claimed countless lives over months, may seem distant to those beyond its borders, but it serves as a silent warning. In our interconnected world, no one is truly safe until everyone is. Krutika Kuppalli, MD is an infectious diseases physician focused on global health, emerging pathogens, and outbreak response; Placide Mbala Kingebeni is an epidemiologist and associate professor of medicine at the University of Kinshasa, DRC Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protect yourself and your family by learning more about Global Health Security Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. At least two teens were among three victims shot and wounded when gunfire erupted inside two Big Apple bodegas on Sunday evening, according to authorities. The two separate shootings happened just hours apart on the Upper West Side and in Brooklyn with suspects in both still on the loose, cops said. At least two teens were among three victims shot and wounded when gunfire erupted inside two Big Apple bodegas on Sunday evening. William C Lopez/New York Post A 16-year-old boy was shot in the stomach and another male, whose age wasnt immediately known, was struck in the hip around 7:45 p.m. inside a deli on the corner of Amsterdam and 92nd Street in upper Manhattan, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both victims were taken to nearby hospitals in stable condition, according to police. The suspect was a male wearing all black, the NYPD said. Less than two hours later, a 16-year-old boy was shot in the left arm, right hand and groin inside a deli on Sutter Avenue in East New York in a targeted attack around 9:30 p.m., police said. He was hospitalized at Brookdale Hospital in stable condition. NYPD at the scene of a shooting of a 16-year-old near 1199 Sutter Ave in the East New York neighborhood of Brooklyn. William Miller NYPD near the crime scene at the corner of Amsterdam and 92nd Street in upper Manhattan. William C Lopez/New York Post The owner of that Brooklyn deli, 24/7 Eats Deli and Grill, told The Post late Sunday, Somebody just came in here and just shot somebody, thats all. Its not a big issue. The suspected gunman in that shooting was a male wearing all-gray, according to the NYPD. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The back-to-back shootings inside city bodegas come less than a week after six people were shot and wounded when gunmen opened fire inside a Bronx deli. A 40-year-old mother was shot in the stomach when one of the cowardly intended targets used her as a human shield. Her 12-year-old daughter was also hit in the right thigh, police said. DES MOINES, Iowa A fire at a barn on Des Moines east side Monday morning claimed the lives of at least three horses. The call about a barn fire at 729 SE 32nd Street came in at 6:09 a.m. according to Capt. Stacia Swanson with the Des Moines Fire Department. Thats just southeast of the Iowa State Fairgrounds. When firefighters arrived at the scene they found heavy flames coming from a barn. The owner of the property, Jose Pina, told WHO 13 that 15 horses were in the barn at the time of the fire, and at least three of them have died. Most of the horses in the barn belong to Pina, but he said some of the horses were boarded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pina said he tried to get as many horses out as possible but the flames and smoke forced him out of the barn. I tried to do my best. I tried to save those horses lives. Unfortunately, two of those horses arent mine. I hope those families that own them, they understand it wasnt on my hands. I tried, I tried hard. I mean I almost got killed there to try to save them. I hope they understand me. I did my best, said Pina. Extremely cold temperatures Monday morning also provided a challenge for firefighters. The weather is not in our favor this morning. Fighting a fire in these conditions is always never enjoyable. But with this amount of animals running around trying to get them secure has been an issue. People trying to come in with their trailers, trying to help these people collect the horses and get them back to a safe area for the rest of the day. Its been a challenge working around our hose and everything, were trying to do everything possible, yes for those animals, but also getting that fire knocked down, said Capt. Swanson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of 10:00 a.m. fire crews remained on the scene working to extinguish hot spots. No injuries to any civilians or firefighters have been reported. The cause of the fire is not known at this time. Animal Control was called to help round up the animals that escaped from the burning barn. Officers with the Des Moines Police Department were also called to the scene to assist. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Lebanese army troops accompanied by UN peacekeepers entered the southern Lebanese town of Naqoura on Monday after Israeli troops withdrew from the area, state media and security sources said. The step came after the five-member ceasefire committee met in Naqoura in the presence of US envoy Amos Hochstein, who arrived in Lebanon earlier on Monday, according to the state-run National News Agency (NNA). The Naqoura municipality confirmed in a statement that the army has begun deploying in the town. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The municipality said it is facilitating the army deployment and entrance of logistical and engineering teams into the town and will inform residents when it is safe for them to return to their homes in coordination with the army and the relevant authorities. A 60-day ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel has been in effect since November 27. During this time, the Israeli Army is to leave southern Lebanon and the Lebanese army is to strengthen its presence in the border area. Meanwhile, the Hezbollah militia is to withdraw behind the Litani River, around 30 kilometres north of the Israeli-Lebanese border. Lebanese army troops accompanied by UN peacekeepers entered the southern Lebanese town of Naqoura on Monday after Israeli troops withdrew from the area, state media and security sources said. The step came after the five-member ceasefire committee met in Naqoura in the presence of US envoy Amos Hochstein, who arrived in Lebanon earlier on Monday. The Naqoura municipality confirmed in a statement that the army has begun deploying in the town. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The municipality said it is facilitating the army deployment and entrance of logistical and engineering teams into the town and will inform residents when it is safe for them to return to their homes in coordination with the army and the relevant authorities. "This process is not smooth, but it is successful, and I think today's withdrawal of Israeli forces back into Israel ... will be followed by other withdrawals until they are out of Lebanon completely," said Hochstein. A 60-day ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel has been in effect since November 27. During this time, the Israeli Army is to leave southern Lebanon and the Lebanese army is to strengthen its presence in the border area. Meanwhile, the Hezbollah militia is to withdraw behind the Litani River, around 30 kilometres north of the Israeli-Lebanese border. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) More than 2,200 nurses from three different Legacy hospitals have announced their intent to unionize as of Monday morning, according to the Oregon Nurses Association. Nurses with the Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center, Legacy Emanuel Medical Center, and Randall Childrens Hospital each delivered a letter to management to seek recognition of their unionization. PHOTOS: Man crashes into, drives inside Dallas, Ore. convenience store Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Legacy nurses have waited decades for this moment, said Sarah Zavala, a registered nurse in the Emergency Department at Legacy Emanuel. Unionizing with ONA is about empowering nurses to provide the highest standard of care, ensuring safe staffing, and protecting the well-being of both staff and patients. The Oregon Nurses Association represents more than 21,000 healthcare workers in the state. According to the union, the nurses at these three facilities home to promptly begin collective bargaining over their concerns about patient care, staffing, and other issues. This announcement comes after a public shooting took place at Legacy Good Samaritan in 2023, the same year that Legacy attempted to close the Mt. Hood Family Birth Center a decision that was ultimately denied by the Oregon Health Authority. Roommate to stand trial for 1999 Hillsboro murder Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The union said a recent merger between Legacy and Oregon Health & Science University had also heightened concerns for nurses regarding job security, staffing levels, workplace safety and patient care. Unionized nurses are better equipped to advocate for community health need, ONA said. By addressing staffing issues, safety concerns, and fair compensation, nurses can focus on delivering the high-quality care their patients deserve. ONA said approximately 2,257 nurses are included in this recent announcement: Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center: 595 registered nurses Legacy Emanuel Medical Center: 1,056 registered nurses Randall Childrens Hospital: 606 registered nurses In response, OHSU shared the following statement with KOIN 6 News: OHSU has longstanding and productive relationships with labor organizations that represent health care workers across the state. We value and appreciate the support these organizations provide their members in service to our patients and communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OHSU and Legacy Health will continue to operate as separate entities until the transaction is final/closed, so OHSU does not have a comment. Once the OHSU-Legacy transaction is final/closed, OHSU is committed to honoring all of Legacys existing collective bargaining agreements. You can learn more in this fact sheet: HCMO Filing Fact Sheet. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 new legislative session presents legislators with the opportunity to make new choices and an honest attempt to fix our upside-down school funding system." (Getty Images) How we treat our children, all our children, says a lot about the values and priorities of our government and lawmakers. For too long in New Hampshire, the state has sustained a public school funding system that is not the result of good faith and honest desire to provide an excellent education for all of our children regardless of ZIP code. Improving our school funding system is vital for the future prosperity of our state, to increase the opportunities available to our students, and decrease the burden on local property-tax payers. Its also a legal necessity, as the state is likely to find out in the coming months with New Hampshire Supreme Court rulings pending on the issue in the ConVal and Rand lawsuits. We dont have to decide between more state funding for public education and lower property taxes, they go hand in hand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state contributes less than $6,000 per pupil per year in Adequate Education Aid, falling far short of the actual costs of educating New Hampshire students, which was $20,323 during the 2022-23 school year. Local property-tax payers are left to close that gap, with 70% of all school revenues raised by local property taxes, the highest share in the country. Communities with lower property values are forced to set higher tax rates while raising less than wealthier municipalities. Shifting more revenue from local to state sources could help close the gap between adequacy and real-world costs and provide immediate tax relief to most property owners, while having the added benefit of creating new opportunities for students in many districts. Heading into this legislative session, there has been plenty of coverage about the bleak revenue projections the state is looking at, and the challenge that presents in crafting the next budget. While these fiscal challenges are real, dont make the mistake of believing they are inevitable. These revenue challenges are the result of intentional choices made by legislatures and governors over the last decade to cut taxes for ultra-wealthy Granite Staters and large, out-of-state corporations instead of investing in public education and lowering property taxes. For example, State School Building Aid is capped at $50 million annually despite much higher need (the state approved 17 eligible projects totaling $227 million in 2022). Instead of school buildings, money went toward a tax break for the ultra-wealthy with the phasing out of the Interest and Dividends Tax (I&D), which generated $184 million in fiscal year 2024. Most Granite Staters paid nothing on this tax, while more than half of revenue collected came from a group of less than 2,000 large filers who had more than $200,000 in I&D income. To generate that much I&D income in a year, a person would need to have upwards of $5 million in investments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This was a specific choice, one that said New Hampshire values tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy more than school buildings. So, it was no surprise at the New Hampshire Supreme Court last month when the state argued that school buildings with heat and electricity were not necessary for an adequate education. Stop and think about the absurdity of the state arguing that heat is not necessary for our students to receive an adequate education. Lost state revenues could also have increased state funding for special education. During the 2022-23 school year, additional services for students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) totaled $915,220,910. State and federal funding accounted for only $160 million, with the rest raised by local property-tax payers. The state could have increased its Special Education Aid Fund, which reimburses school districts for specific, state-approved services provided to students with complex and intensive needs. Recent reporting has found there is a $27 million shortfall in this fund that state and legislative leaders are refusing to fill. The state could easily close the Special Education Aid shortfall by closing the loopholes that currently exist in the Statewide Education Property Tax (SWEPT). These loopholes allow some property-wealthy municipalities to keep more SWEPT than they should. This results in a lower effective rate and, defying all logic, allows some places to set negative local education property tax rates. Last year, closing these two loopholes would have generated over $26 million in revenue for the state. Meanwhile, cuts to the States Business Profits Tax (BPT) and Business Enterprise Tax (BET) caused the state to miss out on an estimated half-billion dollars in revenue. These tax reductions primarily benefited large, multinational corporations. In 2020, the 78 largest BPT filers paid $200.3 million, or 38.4% of all BPT revenues. Meanwhile, the 65,368 smallest filers combined to pay only $2.2 million. Proponents of these cuts claimed benefits echoing trickle-down economics, but there is no data to support those claims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Any of these revenue possibilities could reduce the burden on local property-tax payers, and there are some bills that have been filed that would achieve these aims. But there also are plenty that suggest the Legislature is more interested in wasting time and money fighting recent and long-standing court rulings than working toward actual solutions. One proposed bill, currently called LSR 2025-0832, seeks to declare the Legislature exempt from complying with the Claremont Supreme Court decisions. The Legislature has already flouted the courts since the 1990s, but this is an explicit disrespect for the role of the courts in our system of government. Another proposal, LSR 2025-0673, takes this attitude a step further into retaliation against the judicial branch for protecting the rights of students and taxpayers by instructing the house of representatives to investigate whether grounds exist to impeach Judge David Ruoff. The motivation for this seems to be Ruoffs 2023 ruling that the current amount the state pays in base adequacy is unconstitutionally low. The state, over the past five years of legal battles that have cost taxpayers millions, has provided absolutely no evidence that current funding levels are sufficient. If implemented, Ruoffs ruling would shift over $500 million in education funding from local property taxes to the state. Some legislators cried foul, but what are the courts supposed to do when the Legislature continues to violate the constitution? The New Hampshire Supreme Court warned the Legislature in its 2006 Londonderry decision that the courts would have to step in if they continued to do nothing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To be clear, this money already exists. It is being raised by local property-tax payers and spent on critical services like transportation, school nurses, and buildings and facilities maintenance, all of which the state requires but argues are not constitutionally necessary. Last year we also saw a group of 30 legislators, including the speaker of the House, file an amicus brief in the ConVal case asking the N.H. Supreme Court to overturn its Claremont precedents, citing the Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health decision by the U.S. Supreme Court as an example of courts backtracking on previous rulings. This was a choice, again, to spend time and money trying every possible avenue to avoid adequately funding public education. Another choice lawmakers will face this session is a bill proposing a universal expansion of the over-budget and unaccountable school voucher program. This year the program is projected to cost over $27 million (the same amount as the Special Education Aid shortfall) for parents to pay for private or religious schools and homeschooling expenses. This is happening even while claims are being made by the commissioner of Education that the organization administering the program cannot be audited, and the limited audit that was conducted found deficiencies in 24% of applications. The new legislative session presents legislators with the opportunity to make new choices and an honest attempt to fix our upside-down school funding system. They can choose to close the SWEPT loopholes and do their jobs to find solutions that stop downshifting more and more onto local property-tax payers. Our state does not need to make a choice between lower property taxes and excellent, accessible public education for students in every ZIP code, they go hand in hand. But to achieve them both the state Legislature needs to stop ignoring this problem and start making different choices that put students and property-tax payers first. Where are we now, four years after January 6, 2021? On that day, Donald Trump urged a massive crowd of supporters to march on the U.S. Capitol in protest of the fair and free 2020 presidential election. That march ended with a mob storming the Capitol building, a violent disruption of the proceedings of counting the electoral votes, and the eventual impeachment of the outgoing president. Today, Congress will certify that impeached presidents 2024 electoral victory, and Trump is now just days away from his second inauguration, reclaiming the White House with his dual messages of restoration and retribution. His opponent this time, Vice President Kamala Harris, argued unconvincingly that Americans should reject the man who tried to steal the election four years earlier. And the president whose election the January 6 mob had tried to stop, Joe Biden, is running out the clock after just one term, having failed to fulfill the purpose voters gave him: keeping Trump out of the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But has Biden learned the lesson about January 6 that some of his fellow Democrats are trying to impart, that pointing repeatedly to Trumps association with that attackwithout offering a good reason for people to vote Democraticmay be counterproductive? It seems not. Biden has bookended his presidency, which began in the wake of January 6, with a gesture that reinforces just how partisanly coded the event has become. Last week, the White House announced that among the recipients of the Presidential Citizens Medal are Democratic Rep. Bennie Thompson and former Republican Rep. Liz Cheney, who together chaired the House Select Committee to investigate January 6 and Trumps role in it. Throughout two decades in public service, including as a Congresswoman for Wyoming and Vice Chair of the Committee on the January 6 attack, Liz Cheney has raised her voiceand reached across the aisleto defend our Nation and the ideals we stand for: Freedom. Dignity. And decency, read the official White House statement on her selection for the award. Her integrity and intrepidness remind us all what is possible if we work together. That is, broadly speaking, the Democratic view of Cheneys congressional career-ending refusal to accept Trump back into the Republican fold after January 6. It reflects how most elected Democrats and their supporters interpret the rioting as an affront to American democracy and the rule of law. From this perspective, Trumps support of the effort to overturn the election should disqualify him from being president again. While that view may more or less align with the facts, Kamala Harris discovered in November that it hardly aligns with the priorities of the majority of voters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked on Sunday by CBS anchor Margaret Brennan about why Americans disregarded Trumps involvement with January 6 on Election Day, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi took a more clear-eyed position. I wouldnt say that the American people disregarded this, Pelosi said. They just had a different view as to what was in their interest, economically and the rest. (The rest, as the liberal journalist John Judis argues, includes the sort of culture and social issues with which Democrats appear increasingly out of step.) But Biden, in his political dotage, could not resist sending another signal to the Democratic tribe. Meanwhile, Republicans seem to have internalized their own wrong lessons about January 6. It seems there are practically no political consequences for Republicans who accept the lies underpinning the riot or deny Trumps complicity, and Cheneys supposed betrayal of Trump is worse than Trumps betrayal to the constitutional order. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden gave Liz Cheney a Medal yesterday, even though she has proven to be totally corrupt, Trump posted on Truth Social on Friday, and also accused her of destroying and deleting evidence from the committees investigation. Those claims were made in a report released in mid-December by Rep. Barry Loudermilk, who chairs a House Oversight subcommittee, calling for Cheney to be criminally investigated. Sen. John Barrasso, who served alongside Cheney in the Wyoming congressional delegation, was nearly as harsh. President Biden was either going to pardon Liz Cheney or give her an award. She doesnt deserve either, said Barrasso in a statement. She represents partisanship and divisiveness not Wyoming. And Fox News analyst Brit Hume called the decision to honor Cheney and Thompson repulsive and called their committee work a show trial. Even more tellingly, Republicans and conservatives have focused almost entirely on Cheney and the committees supposed missteps and overreach. (Newly reelected House Speaker Mike Johnson, for instance, has promised the House will continue its investigation into the investigation into January 6, which since beginning in the spring of 2023 has gone on longer than the original select committees probe.) Beyond the most ardent Trump devotees, however, there is little interest among elected Republicans in defending or excusing the actual events of that day. The seeds for all of this were sown in the weeks after the attack on the Capitol, when then-House Republican leader Kevin McCarthy made his pilgrimage to Mar-a-Lago to reaffirm the party establishments support for Trump. At the same time, the outrage among other Republicans on Capitol Hill, including Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, curdled into benign neglect. The criminal courts, not the political process of impeachment, would deal with the Trump problem, they thought. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So what would be the right lessons from January 6? For the GOP, its that nipping their Trump problem in the bud through the political process of impeachment was the only conceivable way to address the outrage nearly all elected Republicans felt in the days after the Capitol riot. And for Democrats, it might be that the outrage over Trump thumbing his nose at the democratic process and the constitutional order may be necessary, but it isnt sufficient for winning. With a more responsive policy agenda and viable candidate who spoke to the current needs of the average American voter, Democrats might have been able to block Trump from winning the presidency again. Yet here we are, in 2025, with the justice system having failed to reckon properly with Trumps actions leading up to January 6. For Republicans, Trump is no longer a problem but an answer for the way forward. It took four years, but the former presidents attempt to will his way back into power has succeeded. Lesson learned. Read more at The Dispatch The Dispatch is a new digital media company providing engaged citizens with fact-based reporting and commentary, informed by conservative principles. Sign up for free. Flawed celebration At 5 p.m. on Dec. 26, I attended the annual Hanukkah Menorah Candle Lighting at Mission Plaza in San Luis Obispo. The plaza was beautifully lit with blue lights and it was filled with Jews, as well as a diverse and friendly crowd. Three public officials offered inspirational thoughts and Rabbi Micah Hyman led us in prayer, candle lighting and song. After each person spoke, my despair and anger grew. The rabbi affirmed the importance of freeing the Israeli hostages. However, no one spoke even one word of the suffering of the Palestinian people. Thousands of displaced people, including young children, are starving, in need of medical care and living in constant fear of bombs. What happened to never again?! Opinion Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am a Jew and I am disgusted. I know I am not alone. Yes, we all want peace in the Middle East (and Ukraine and all countries at war) but not at this price! Israel cannot bomb its way to peace. We must not ignore this suffering and we must not tolerate our leadership ignoring it either. Marcia Goldner Alter Arroyo Grande Mistaken impression I am writing to address a misrepresentation in your article about Meals That Connect. It implied that the Atascadero Senior Centers all-volunteer board is unwilling to fund raise. This is not true. In fact, it is a necessity, and an essential part of what we do, along with grant writing. These efforts are critical to sustaining the valuable services, activities and resources we provide for local seniors. Fundraising does present challenges for our members, though, as all of us are seniors. The majority are over 70 years old, and many face physical limitations that make organizing and executing fundraising events difficult. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite these obstacles, we remain committed to this important work and are deeply grateful for the generosity of our donors, most of whom are members of the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce. For those who wish to support our efforts, donations can be made at atascaderoseniorcenter.org. We also welcome new members of all ages. Annual dues are just $10 and can be paid online, by mail or in person. Contributions beyond this amount are greatly appreciated and help us advance our mission. We extend heartfelt thanks to our members and donors for their ongoing support. Vickie Rabourn, co-president Atascadero Senior Center Clean energy On Dec. 19, the Tribune highlighted the $100 billion in the federal budget for aid to communities devastated by hurricanes and other disasters, including $21 billion for farmers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This massive aid package is no surprise to the many people who have been following the subject. Climate-related disasters are costing the country $150 billion each year. The National Centers for Climate Information details the increasing frequency of billion-dollar disasters over the last four decades, so we can expect this to continue worsening unless we work together to stop climate change. If we fail to act, our economy will be dragged down by worsening hurricanes, floods, fires and droughts. About half of the country could end up sweltering under summers hotter than present day India and Egypt, with all the adverse health effects and loss of productivity that brings. The overwhelming bulk of the evidence points to carbon dioxide being released into the atmosphere, much of it from the generation of electricity, as the cause. We have the technology to fix this. In fact, currently there are approximately 1,480 gigawatts of proposed zero-carbon energy waiting for connection to our energy grid. Add to that the proposed 1,030 gigawatts of energy storage also waiting for connection, and we could add double our current generating capacity, all with new renewable energy. Many of these projects are being held up by cumbersome and inefficient permitting processes, and an antiquated electrical grid of limited capacity. All thats needed is for us to streamline our permitting processes and upgrade and increase our transmission lines. We can eliminate our contribution to climate change, save our economy and prevent the catastrophes that are looming over our childrens and grandchildrens lives. Lets demand streamlined permitting and upgraded transmission lines, and embrace a carbon-free future for our energy. Dr. George Hansen Arroyo Grande A group of LGBTQ veterans who sued the Department of Defense last year for denying them honorable discharges because of their sexuality said Monday they had settled with the Pentagon. The agreement, which still needs a federal judges approval, streamlines the process for veterans discharged under dont ask, dont tell and predecessor policies to eliminate references to their sexual orientation from their discharge paperwork. Doing so can be a burdensome undertaking that under current standards can stretch on for years. The dont ask, dont tell policy and its predecessors prevented LGBTQ people from serving openly in the military. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gay and lesbian veterans denied an honorable discharge because of their sexuality may be eligible for an expedited upgrade review, according to the agreement, the result of a yearlong legal battle. Five former service members dismissed from the U.S. military because of their sexual orientation sued the Department of Defense last summer, arguing the agency violated their constitutional rights when it failed to grant them honorable discharges or remove language revealing their sexuality from their service records following the repeal of dont ask, dont tell in 2011. A federal judge allowed the class action lawsuit, which was brought in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California and represents more than 30,000 veterans, to move forward in June after the Pentagon moved to dismiss it. U.S. Magistrate Judge Joseph C. Spero wrote in an order that the militarys decision to leave LGBTQ veterans discharge paperwork unchanged was motivated by discriminatory intent. Separation documents assigned to service members discharged under dont ask, dont tell, a policy put into effect in 1993 by the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), denote their sexual orientation as the reason for their dismissal, which the lawsuits plaintiffs said violate their privacy. Those discharges also deprive LGBTQ veterans of benefits such as military discounts, college tuition assistance, VA loan programs and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This settlement is not just about correcting records; its about restoring the honor and pride that LGBTQ+ veterans have always deserved but were denied, one of the named plaintiffs, Navy veteran Lilly Steffanides, said Monday in a statement. I hope this brings justice to others who served with courage, only to face exclusion and discrimination. When I was discharged because of my sexual orientation, I felt that my country was telling me that my service was not valuable that I was less than because of who I loved. Today, I am once again proud to have served my country by standing up for veterans like myself, and ensuring our honor is recognized, said Sherrill Farrell, a Navy veteran who was also a plaintiff in the case. The Pentagon in recent years has taken steps to remedy its past indiscretions against LGBTQ service members. In October, hundreds of veterans dismissed under the militarys dont ask, dont tell policy were granted honorable discharges following a review of administrative separations between 1994 and 2011. In June, President Biden pardoned former service members given military convictions under a now-repealed military ban on consensual gay sex. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guidance issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs in 2021, on the 10th anniversary of the repeal of dont ask, dont tell, states military service members discharged under the policy estimated to be about 14,000 people are eligible for VA benefits. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Parts of Southern California that were impacted by severe wildfires last month will be again threatened with critical fire danger in the coming days. The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning and red flag warning from Los Angeles down to the Mexican border from Tuesday through Wednesday morning. PHOTO: Fire risk forecast map. (ABC) PHOTO: Fire forecast map. (ABC) During that time, strong Santa Ana winds could gust 40 mph to 60 mph -- even reaching up to 80 mph locally in some spots, forecasts show. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday evening, California Gov. Gavin Newsom directed state departments to position fire engines, handcrews, aircraft and additional support in areas that could be impacted. "The state is taking early, proactive steps to coordinate with local partners to protect communities as dangerous weather enters our state. We are no strangers to winter-time wildfire threats, so I ask all Californians to pay attention to local authorities and be prepared to evacuate if told to go," Newsom said in a statement. MORE: Firefighters up containment of California wildfire that has burned over 4,000 acres A "life threatening" and "destructive" windstorm is expected from Tuesday afternoon to Wednesday morning across much of the Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, according to the NWS. Areas that are not typically windy will also be impacted, the agency said. HEADS UP!!! A LIFE-THREATENING, DESTRUCTIVE, Widespread Windstorm is expected Tue afternoon-Weds morning across much of Ventura/LA Co. Areas not typically windy will be impacted. See graphic for areas of greatest concern. Stay indoors, away from windows, expect poweroutages. #LA pic.twitter.com/yl83LxeMEc NWS Los Angeles (@NWSLosAngeles) January 6, 2025 Dry conditions are also expected to exacerbate fire threats, as humidity can be as low as 10% over the coming days. The low humidity will produce very high fire danger for Southern California and the Los Angeles area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Wildfires in recent years have reversed some of the progress made in eliminating air pollution, new study suggests Some of the regions under elevated fire risk this week, such as Malibu, were impacted by a raging wildfire last month that spread to more than 4,000 acres and forced 20,000 residents into evacuation. PHOTO: The Franklin Fire burns in Malibu, Calif., Dec. 10, 2024. (Jae C. Hong/AP) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition, drought conditions have returned to much of Southern California, according to an update from the U.S. Drought Monitor that was released last week. Moderate drought now is currently in place from Los Angeles to San Diego, leaving very dry vegetation that can potentially fuel a spark and create a wildfire. ABC News' Melissa Griffin, Max Golembo and Dan Peck contributed to this report. 'Life threatening' windstorm to increase fire danger in Southern California: NWS originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Congress on Monday formally certified President-elect Trumps 2024 election victory. Vice President Harris oversaw the process, affirming Trumps victory as well as her decisive defeat to him after a whirlwind run for commander in chief. It took less than 45 minutes. Monday also marks four years since rioters stormed the Capitol in an effort to overturn Trumps 2020 election loss, ultimately resulting in the death of several police officers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And we should commit to remembering Jan. 6, 2021, every year, President Biden wrote Monday in an op-ed for The Washington Post. To remember it as a day when our democracy was put to the test and prevailed. To remember that democracy even in America is never guaranteed. In other news on Capitol Hill, lawmakers are contending with how to best move Trumps ambitious agenda after he declared over the weekend that he only wanted one reconciliation package. Follow along for live updates below. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A major winter storm continued to bring heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain from the Midwest to the mid-Atlantic region, leaving at least six people reported dead. Officials in Jackson County, Mo., said a 61-year-old man died on Sunday when he was struck by a sliding dump truck. In Wichita, Kan., a 24-year-old man and 26-year-old woman were killed in a rollover crash, when the vehicle they were traveling in spun out on the interstate and flew down an embankment, police said. States of emergency were declared in seven states and the District of Columbia, where 16 inches of snow was forecast. Up to 18 inches of snow fell in Kansas, forcing the closure of I-70. More than 5 feet of snow was reported in western New York. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 1,900 flights in and out of the U.S. were canceled on Monday, and more than 5,000 were delayed. Hundreds of thousands of utility customers were without power. The storms arrival comes as an Arctic air mass is expected to send temperatures plunging as far south as the Gulf Coast. Forecasters say those frigid temperatures will likely remain through mid-January. Seattle Police bike officers arrested a suspected drug trafficker in Belltown on Sunday afternoon, according to the Seattle Police Department. The arrest followed a surveillance operation where officers witnessed a series of narcotics transactions by the suspect. The operation began around 1:30 p.m., and after observing the suspected drug dealing, bike officers moved to arrest the individual. After a brief foot chase, patrol officers helped take the 66-year-old suspect into custody. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was found to be in possession of a loaded .45 caliber firearm. A search of the suspect yielded 27.1 grams of methamphetamine, 19 grams of fentanyl (including 4.3 grams of powder and an unspecified quantity of blue M30 pills), 1.0 gram of crack cocaine, three digital scales, and $638 in cash. The suspect, who is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing firearms, was booked into King County Jail. He faces charges of unlawful possession of narcotics, unlawful possession of a firearm, and obstructing a public officer. Theyre hoping it wont be a brutal fight over this brutalist space. Preservationists are pushing to landmark parts of a uniquely shaped Upper East Side building that once housed the Whitney Museum and MET Breuer before auction house Sothebys takes over the space. The eye-catching brutalist exterior at 945 Madison Ave. is already protected because its within the boundaries of the Upper East Side Historic District, but the oddly shaped buildings interior can be altered in construction without the designation, activists said. Preservationists are championing landmark status for sections of the interior of the former Upper East Side home of the Whitney Museum ahead of new owner Sothebys planned renovations. Christina Horsten/picture-alliance/dpa/AP Images With a change in ownership and a change in use, we fear that portions of [architect Marcel] Breuers original interior could be permanently and unsympathetically altered, architecture preservation group Docomomo US said in a statement on its website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The seminal interiors of this landmark probably the best known by this Bauhaus master and among the most significant works of Modern architecture in the cityare not protected by agency oversight and currently could be inappropriately altered without recourse. The group issued a 45-page request to the citys Landmarks Preservation Commission to landmark the building, since building a coalition of supporters that includes the Friends of the Upper East Side Historic Districts, New York Landmarks Conservancy, Preservation League of New York State and others. The LPC is now considering a landmark designation for sections of the Madison Avenue lower-level, lobby, coat check, main staircase and entrance vestibule saying in a Dec. 17 briefing document that the buildings iconoclastic design is unlike anything built in New York City before or since. The briefing described the buildings exterior as being in stark contrast with the surrounding 19th century rowhouses and its interior featuring open floor plans, distinctive overhead lights, and interconnected public spaces that together create an enduring emblem of modern urban architecture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The preservation push comes as Sothebys plans to move its headquarters to the Upper East Side building, complete with a renovation helmed by Herzog & de Meuron. The renovation project is poised to preserve the architects original vision while adapting it to the needs of Sothebys, the neighborhood, and the city today, according to architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron. Getty Images The auction house bought the building from the Whitney Museum for $100 million in 2023 with plans to convert it into an auction, gallery and exhibition space. The renovation project is poised to preserve the architects original vision while adapting it to the needs of Sothebys, the neighborhood, and the city today, according to the firm overseeing the renovation. A request for comment regarding how landmark status could affect the renovation plans was not immediately returned by a Sothebys representative. With a change in ownership and a change in use, we fear that portions of Breuers original interior could be permanently and unsympathetically altered, advocacy group Docomomo US said. Bettmann Archive Jacques Herzog said in a statement last month that the project would be approached with respect for its original vision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By reviving lost spaces, carefully inserting new ones and making other subtle interventions with a considered palette of materials, the building will be prepared for its new role in the auction worldand will also be more accessible again for visitors and the people of New York, Herzog said. The modifications are anticipated to begin later this year and be completed by this fall but could be slowed by landmarked status, which would require any alterations to be approved by the landmarks commission. Similar to our work on the Park Avenue Armory project, we will be approaching the Breuer project with excitement and with respect for its original vision, Jacques Herzog said in a statement last month. Annie Wermiel/NY Post Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LPC Commissioner Jeanne Lutfy said she was sort of shocked to learn the building hadnt been landmarked at a December meeting, according to 6sqft. Its been such an important building in this city, from a historical, cultural, architectural, personally, its been very important to me that I was like, Oh my God, thank God were doing this,' Lufty said. The building was completed in 1966 as a larger space for the Whitney Museum, housing its modern art collection until the museum left for its current Meatpacking District site in 2014. Since then, it has temporarily housed collections from the Metropolitan Museum of Art (as the MET Breuer) and The Frick Museum (as the Frick Madison) during the Henry Clay Frick House renovation. A public hearing on the potential landmark designation has yet to be scheduled, but is expected to be marked on the Landmark Preservation Commission calendar in early 2025. KINGSPORT, Tenn. (WJHL) Holston Valley Medical Center was on lockdown Sunday afternoon after an alleged incident in the community. Ballad Health officials said that the lockdown was implemented as a precautionary measure. It lasted just under three hours. Due to an apparent incident in the community, and in the utmost of caution, Holston Valley Medical Center was on lockdown to ensure the security of team members, patients and visitors. Ballad Health Ballad Health reported that the hospital is no longer under lockdown. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. In the same Long Beach hospital where she regularly volunteered with her rescued therapy dog, loved ones said hit-and-run victim Nikki Rash took her final breath with her Labrador Retriever, Gabby, right at her side. Nikki, a 78-year-old Long Beach resident, died on Saturday, Jan. 4, from severe injuries that she sustained in a hit-and-run crash on Dec. 26 and the suspect is still at large. The neck injury and brain injury she sustained, she was being kept alive on machines and so after 10 days we honored her health care directive, said Nikkis son, Chris Rash. We let her go peacefully. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chris said his mother was only blocks away from her home in the Bixby Knolls neighborhood when she was T-boned by a driver who ran a red light. According to the Long Beach Police Departments report, officers responded around 4:45 p.m. to the intersection of California Avenue and San Antonio Drive on the day after Christmas. Investigators found that after the crash, the male suspect briefly stepped out of his car, but quickly got back in and drove away. Officials have not released a suspect description, but his car is described as a tan-colored Toyota Avalon sedan. Surveillance video of the car showed notable front-end damage. Surveillance image shows the suspects tan-colored Toyota Avalon sedan with notable front-end damage. (Long Beach Police Department) Police said that the victim, who family members identified as Nikki, declined medical treatment at the scene but transported herself to a medical facility a few hours after the crash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At that point in time, she was complaining of severe headache and neck pain, said Chris. Chris told KTLAs Carlos Saucedo that when his family got to Nikki, she had no recollection of the collision after suffering a massive head injury. The 78-year-old was in a coma after she underwent brain surgery and was placed on life support at Long Beach Memorial one of the hospitals where Nikkis former co-volunteer said she used to visit patients with her two rescue Labs, Dutch and Gabby. Hit-and-run victim Nikki Rash is seen holding the paw of her rescued Labrador Retriever, Gabby, moments before her death. January 2025. (Chris Rash) Hit-and-run victim Nikki Rash is seen with her rescued Labrador Retriever, Gabby, in this undated photo. (Andrew Lesser) Hit-and-run victim Nikki Rash is seen in this undated photo. (Chris Rash) Hit-and-run victim Nikki Rash is seen in this undated photo. (Chris Rash) Hit-and-run victim Nikki Rash is seen holding the paw of her rescued Labrador Retriever, Gabby, moments before her death. January 2025. (Andrew Lesser) The nurses were very kind at the ICU, said Andrew Lesser, president of Southern California Labrador Retriever Rescue (SCLRR). They gave special permission for Nikkis service dog Gabby to visit with her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lesser said losing Nikki will be a heavy blow to SCLRR, an organization she volunteered for since 2013. This shouldnt have happened, said Lesser. Somebody needs to pay for this. Whoever did this needs to pay. Nikkis family is asking for witnesses to come forward and help police with their investigation. We also ask that the person who did this step up and take ownership of what they did, said Chris. They made a mistake and they need to step up. Police ask anyone who witnessed the collision or has information on the suspect to call Long Beach police detective Ashley Van Holland at 562-570-7355. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anonymous tips can be provided to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. President Joe Biden announced last Sunday that a national day of mourning will be held in early January following the death of former President Jimmy Carter, who died Sunday at age 100 in his hometown of Plains, Georgia. The national day of mourning will be Thursday, Jan. 9, Biden said. In addition to the national day of mourning, effective immediately, all flags were ordered to be displayed at half-staff at the White House and on all public buildings and grounds, as well as all military posts, naval stations, and naval vessels. How long will flags stay at half-staff following Carter's death? Here's what we know. Why are flags at half-staff today? Because Carter was a former president, his death requires all flags to be displayed at half-staff at the White House and on public buildings and grounds. Flags are also at half-staff at all military posts, naval stations and half-mast on naval vessels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I also direct that, for the same length of time, the representatives of the United States in foreign countries shall make similar arrangements for the display of the flag at halfstaff over their embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations," Biden said in a statement Sunday. How long will flags be at half-staff? Flags will remain at half-staff until late January. The White House ordered public flags to be displayed at half-staff for a period of 30 days from Carter's day of death, which was Sunday. This timeline will overlap with the Jan. 20 inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, adding a unique historical note to both Carters legacy and Trumps swearing-in. When Trump takes the oath of office, he will be the first president inaugurated while U.S. flags are officially lowered in mourning. The closest precedent occurred in 1973, when then-President Richard Nixon ordered flags lowered to honor former President Lyndon B. Johnson, who had died just days after Nixons second inauguration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although the current proclamation is expected to remain in effect for its designated period, Trump does have the authority to adjust flag protocols upon taking office, as such orders are not governed by federal law. State flags are also lowered. Do I have to lower my flag? If youre flying the U.S. flag, it should be lowered to half-staff during the mourning period for Carter, in accordance with the U.S. flag code. The code is a set of guidelines, not law, but private citizens and businesses are expected to follow the protocol of lowering to half-staff any U.S. flag displayed on a vertical pole. If you have an American flag on a 45-degree post, like the kind you mount on the side of your home, you cant actually lower it to half-staff. But you could add a black ribbon to the top of the pole or, if your post has one, lower the flag to the 90-degree position. Half-mast vs. half-staff: What's the difference? Flags are flown at half-mast on ships and at naval stations. On shore, flags are flown at half-staff, meaning the flagpole is attached to a building or stuck in the ground. When are flags flown at half-staff? There are specific holidays and events for which flags are flown at half-staff in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website. They include: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Memorial Day, when the flag should be displayed at half-staff until noon only and then raised to the top of the staff. Peace Officers Memorial Day, unless that day is also Armed Forces Day. Patriot Day. National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. National Firefighters Memorial Day. President Dwight Eisenhower also issued a proclamation on the proper times for flying the flag at half-staff when government officials die: Thirty days for all federal buildings, grounds and naval vessels throughout the United States and its territories and possessions after the death of the president or a former president. Ten days at half-staff after the death of the vice president, the chief justice or a retired chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, or the speaker of the House of Representatives. From the date of death until interment for an associate justice of the Supreme Court, a member of the Cabinet, a former vice president, the president pro tempore of the Senate, the majority leader of the Senate, the minority leader of the Senate, the majority leader of the House of Representatives or the minority leader of the House of Representatives. The date of death and the next day for a U.S. senator, a representative, a territorial delegate or the resident commissioner from the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. It should also be flown at half-staff at all federal facilities in the state, congressional district, territory or commonwealth of these officials. From the date of death until interment for the governor of a state, territory or possession. The president may also order that the flag be flown at half-staff to commemorate the death of other officials, former officials or foreign dignitaries, in addition to tragic events. For instance, on Oct. 7, Gov. Greg Abbott declared Monday a statewide Day of Observance for Israel in Texas and asked residents to hold a moment of silence for the people of Israel and for the seven Americans who remain hostages. Where will Jimmy Carter be buried? See funeral schedule Public memorial observances for Jimmy Carter will take place in Georgia and at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., according to the White House and the Carter Center. In a statement, Biden said he would order an official state funeral for Carter, the 39th president. His body will lay in state at the Capitol, as have other presidents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ceremonies for Carter on Jan. 9 are scheduled for the following times in Eastern Time, as reported by the Savannah Morning News: 9 a.m. ET, U.S. Capitol: A ceremony will be held the motorcade departs for the Washington National Cathedral. 9:30 a.m., Washington National Cathedral: An arriving ceremony will follow the motorcade's arrival. 10 a.m., Washington National Cathedral: The National Funeral Service will take place. 11:15 a.m., Washington National Cathedral: Carter's family will leave the ceremony and travel to Joint Base Andrews via the motorcade. They will depart to Georgia on Special Air Mission 39. 2 p.m., Lawson Army Airfield: The Carter family will arrive at the military airport in Fort Moore, Georgia. They will travel by another motorcade to Plains. 3:45 p.m., Maranatha Baptist Church: A private funeral service will be held at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains. 4:45 p.m.: The Carter family will leave by motorcade and travel to Carter's private residence. 5:20 p.m., Carter Residence: A private internment will take place, where Carter will be buried next to his wife. Rosalynn died in 2023 at the age of 96. USA TODAY contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Why are flags at half-staff? National day of mourning honors Jimmy Carter UPDATE: On Jan. 7, 27-year-old Davin Rolle was arrested in connection with the incident. The Lebanon Police Department said Rolle is charged with aggravated assault and reckless endangerment. LEBANON, Tenn. (WKRN) The Lebanon Police Department is still looking for a suspect after receiving reports of shots fired at Walmart Saturday night. Security cameras caught the suspect leaving the South Cumberland Street store just after 10 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 4. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials posted about the police presence at Walmart shortly after 10:45 p.m., saying the store had been evacuated but no injuries were reported. As a precaution, anyone living within a mile of Walmart was asked to shelter in place. PREVIOUS: Police ask those who live near Lebanon Walmart to shelter in place following reports of shots fired The suspect is believed to be a black male who was last seen wearing a black jacket and gray pants, police said, adding that he could be driving a green vehicle. Law enforcement shared two pictures of a man, who they initially called a person of interest but later referred to as a suspect: (Source: Lebanon Police Department) (Source: Lebanon Police Department) Authorities said Saturday nights shooting is believed to be an isolated incident between two people, adding that theres no threat to the public. However, community members said theyre still concerned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It used to be, Lebanon was a small town, perfect place to raise your kids, perfect, and now its gotten where the crime is getting really bad, said Elizabeth Brown, who has lived in Lebanon for 33 years. Brown told News 2 she now carries a Taser for self-defense. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com My daughters come here and theyre young mothers, and one of them has four and one of them has two children, so that concerns me a lot. Most of the time, theyre by themselves, she added. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. PARIS (AP) Frances former President Nicolas Sarkozy goes on trial Monday over allegations he received millions from Libya for his 2007 successful presidential campaign, in the latest and biggest of a series of legal cases involving him. This comes after his conviction in a corruption case was made definitive by Frances highest court last month. Sarkozy, 69, was Frances president from 2007 to 2012. He retired from active politics in 2017. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The former president has denied any wrongdoing. Heres a look at the legal proceedings. Alleged Libya financing Sarkozy, along with 11 others, is accused of having received millions for his 2007 presidential campaign in illegal financing from the government of then-Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi. Sarkozy has been under investigation in the case since 2013. He is charged with passive corruption, illegal campaign financing, embezzlement of Libyan public funds and criminal association. The trial is scheduled to run until April 10. Investigators examined claims that Gadhafis government secretly agreed to give Sarkozy up to 50 million euros ($51.6 million) for his 2007 campaign. The sum was more than double the legal campaign funding limit at the time, violating French rules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The investigation gained traction when French-Lebanese businessman Ziad Takieddine told news site Mediapart in 2016 that he had delivered suitcases from Libya containing 5 million euros (about $5.1 million) in cash to Sarkozy and his former chief of staff. Takieddine later withdrew the allegation and Sarkozy sought to have the inquiry closed. After becoming president in 2007, Sarkozy welcomed Gadhafi to France with high honors later that year. Sarkozy then put France at the forefront of NATO-led airstrikes that helped rebel fighters topple Gadhafis government in 2011. Accusations of witness tampering French investigative judges filed preliminary charges in 2023 against Sarkozy for his alleged involvement in an attempt to mislead magistrates in order to clear him in the Libya financing case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Financial prosecutors said Sarkozy is suspected of benefitting from corruptly influencing a witness, in reference to Takieddine. Sarkozys wife, former supermodel Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, was given preliminary charges in July last year for alleged involvement in efforts to pressure Takieddine. Bruni-Sarkozy was placed under judicial supervision, which includes a ban on contact with all those involved in the proceedings except for her husband. Wiretapping scandal Frances Court of Cassation on Dec. 18 upheld an appeal court decision that had found Sarkozy guilty of corruption and influence peddling while he was the countrys head of state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sarkozy has been sentenced to a year in prison but is entitled to be detained at home with an electronic bracelet as provided by French law. He said he would bring the case to the European Court of Human Rights. Sarkozy was first found guilty in 2021 by a Paris court, a verdict confirmed in 2023 by an appeals court, for trying to bribe a magistrate in exchange for information about a legal case in which he was implicated. The case was revealed through wiretapped phone conversations during the Libya financing investigation. Convicted for illegal campaign financing In February last year, an appeals court in Paris upheld a guilty verdict against Sarkozy for illegal campaign financing in his failed 2012 reelection bid. He was sentenced to a year in prison, of which six months were suspended. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The former president is accused of having spent almost twice the maximum legal amount of 22.5 million euros on the reelection bid that he lost to Socialist Francois Hollande. Sarkozy has denied all allegations and appealed to the highest Court of Cassation in that case. RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) The new year will bring new laws for the state of North Carolina. As part of the 2023 budget bill, the individual income tax rate is set to decrease from 4.5 percent to 4.25 percent this year and further to 3.99 percent in 2026. There is also the controversial Senate Bill 382, which provides funding for Hurricane Helene relief efforts, but strips power from incoming Democrats, including new Gov. Josh Stein. Before Stein took office, the bill was vetoed by Gov. Roy Cooper, but the Republican-controlled General Assembly overrode the veto. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stein and Cooper have taken legal action over the bill, alleging it is unconstitutional. Steven Greene, a political science professor at North Carolina State University, said SB 382 is one of the big talkers entering the new year. Would Republicans have changed these laws had Republicans won these offices? Green said. I think the answer is no. If thats the case, you have to consider whether its the right approach for these offices. Another change this year is Senate Bill 452, which will change auto insurance. Under the new law, there are significant changes to auto insurance coverage. The minimum liability limits will increase to $50,000 for one person and $100,000 for two or more people per accident. Property damage coverage will also rise to $50,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senate Bill 452 also changes how underinsured motorist coverage is calculated, ensuring that the total damages sustained by an individual are considered. These updates are intended to provide better financial protection for drivers and accident victims. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) If youre looking for a change of scenery in 2025, you may want to consider attending the Utah Department of Workforce Services upcoming virtual job fair. The free statewide job fair will be held on Thursday, Jan. 9 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. and will offer more than 1,500 positions in a range of fields from healthcare and education to retail and manufacturing. The start of a new year is a great time to find new career opportunities and Utahs job market offers a wide range of options, said Liz Carver, Workforce Development Division director. Whether youre looking for your first job, exploring a career change, or re-entering the workforce, the virtual job fair is a great place to start. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Job seekers can attend the virtual job fair from anywhere using their own computer or smartphone. Once logging in to attend, job seekers will find a digital floor plan with rows of booths, each representing an employer. Clicking on a booth will provide information on the company, available job openings, and links to their social media accounts. Job seekers can also start a live chat with a company representative and share their resume. Meanwhile, employers can schedule interviews with potential candidates, start one-on-one video chats, or even make job offers on the spot. Those interested in attending are encouraged to come prepared with their resume and a professional photo uploaded to their Workforce Services profile. In addition to the job fair, the Department of Workforce Services will be hosting two online workshops on Wednesday, Jan. 8. The department said these workshops are designed to help job seekers get the most out of the virtual job fair. Workforce Services also offers one-on-one career counseling and resume help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Job Fair participants are encouraged to pre-register for the statewide virtual job fair at jobs.utah.gov. One the day of the event, log back in to my Job Search. Job seekers can also search through more than 25,000 statewide openings on the website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The new president of the Los Angeles Unified School Districts Board of Education says he wants to fight the districts cratering enrollment with new policies and approaches. Scott Schmerelson, who has worked in the LA Unified School District for nearly four decades and has served on the board since 2015, was elected and installed as president by his board colleagues on Dec. 10. As board president, he succeeded Jackie Goldberg, who is retiring. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter A former LAUSD teacher, principal and administrator, Schmerelson assumed leadership of the board just before he begins his third and final term representing District 3, which covers parts of LAs San Fernando Valley region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a phone interview, Schmerelson said hed focus the boards attention on fighting falling student enrollment in the remainder of the academic year, as pre-pandemic declines accelerated into long-term losses that may eventually force school closures. Im going to constantly, constantly talk about enrollment, Schmerelson said. For the school district to remain viable, we have to have students. Schmerelson said he hoped LAUSDs improving test scores would help attract students who may have left the district for private schools or home instruction. He said as board president hell also focus on issues including LAUSDs academic recovery and rising school violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a tall order. But with nearly 40 years working in the district and close to a decade on the school board, Schmerelson believes he has the backing of his community. As president, Schmerelson will help set the direction of the boards policymaking and manage its operations. The LAUSDs seven-member board sets the districts policy, controls its budget and hires the superintendent. This fall Schmerelson overcame an aggressive campaign from opponent Dan Chang, a math teacher at James Madison Middle School in North Hollywood, who focused much of his election messaging on the need to tame waste and corruption in the school district. Chang and his backers, including the state charter school associations political arm, spent more than $5.6 million promoting his campaign. Schmerelsons backers, including the local teacher union, spent about $2.5 million, according to campaign filings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the end, Chang landed behind Schmerelson with 48% of the vote, while Schmerelson got 52%. Schmerelson brought up the cost of the race in remarks he made after he was sworn in as president at LAUSD headquarters last month. Really, it is our whole community that won, he said. Because we learned to work together against the power of money. And when I say money, I mean $5 million. The contest between the two men had the potential to tilt the districts school board away from a majority of union-backed members, and impact its handling of several controversial issues facing LAUSD, including restrictions on charter schools use of buildings, which Chang said hed move to reverse if elected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schmerelsons victory is part of a successful election season for many teachers union-backed candidates in Los Angeles and Schmerelson has aligned himself with local unions on policies limiting space and resources for charter schools. But in an interview Schmerelson said he supports the continued operation of high-quality charter schools in the district. I am going to support those charter schools that are doing an excellent job of educating the kids, said Schmerelson. I want to make sure that the charter schools that we have, are viable and working well, he added. BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill has directed the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation (LBI) to conduct a comprehensive review of security plans from New Years Eve and the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans. The decision comes in the aftermath of the January 1 terrorist attack on Bourbon Street that claimed 14 lives and left over two dozen critically injured. The review, initiated after consultation with Governor Jeff Landry, will evaluate all aspects of the citys security planning and response efforts for the events. Scope of the Review According to Murrill, the investigation will examine: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Security assessments and prior recommendations The use of state, federal, and local funding for security measures Allocation of assets and resources Operational failures Coordination among state, local, and federal agencies The People of Louisiana deserve answers. We are committed to getting a full and complete picture of what was done or not done, and more importantly, what needs to change so we can prevent this from ever happening again, Murrill said in a statement. The FBI says the man responsible for New Years truck attack visited New Orleans twice before Cooperation Pledged by Local Officials Attorney General Murrill emphasized the importance of collaboration in the review process. She confirmed discussions with key New Orleans leaders, including Police Chief Anne Kirkpatrick, City Council President Helena Moreno, District Attorney Jason Williams, Inspector General Edward Michel, and Councilman Freddie King, all of whom pledged their full support. The men and women of the New Orleans Police Department put their lives on the line for us every single day, Murrill said. It was through their bravery and quick action that this evil and cowardly terrorist was terminated before more lives were lost. Next Steps Murrill indicated that she will continue reaching out to other state and community leaders in the coming days as part of the review process. The investigation aims to identify shortcomings and recommend changes to enhance the safety of residents and visitors in Louisianas largest city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This story is developing. Check back for updates. New Orleans barriers to prevent vehicle attacks were in the process of being replaced Latest Stories Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to BRProud.com. WASHINGTON D.C. (BRPROUD) Louisiana officials, including Attorney General Liz Murrill, have voiced strong opposition to President Joe Bidens recent offshore oil drilling ban, citing its potential economic impacts. Signed during Bidens final days in office, the executive order halts all future drilling along the East and West Coasts, parts of Alaskas Bering Sea, and the eastern Gulf of Mexico. The move, made under the 1953 Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, cannot be immediately reversed by incoming President Donald Trump. Murrill hinted at a potential lawsuit, calling the decision a direct threat to national security and the energy workforce. Bidens Statement on the Ban In his order, Biden emphasized the need for environmental protection, citing the risks offshore drilling poses to coastal communities and ecosystems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My decision reflects what coastal communities, businesses, and beachgoers have known for a long time: that drilling off these coasts could cause irreversible damage to places we hold dear and is unnecessary to meet our nations energy needs. It is not worth the risks, Biden said. Biden defended the ban as necessary to address climate risks and prevent catastrophic oil spills, referencing the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster: The Deepwater Horizon oil spill, a man-made catastrophe that took the lives of eleven people and spilled millions of barrels of oil into the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, is a solemn reminder of the costs and risks of offshore drilling. Louisiana Leaders Respond The ban has sparked widespread criticism in Louisiana, a hub for the oil and gas industry. Officials argue the decision will harm the states economy and energy independence. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill took to X to express her opposition, hinting at legal action: After 4 years of incompetence & bureaucratic reign by DC over the American people, @JoeBidens parting gift is to attack Americas energy independence. This is a direct threat to our national security & the hard-working men & women of this Country. Lawsuit incoming stay tuned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senator John Kennedy also criticized Bidens energy policy on X, saying: From Day 1, Pres. Bidens energy policy has beenfor political reasonsto have America forfeit its energy independence. I think hed prefer to have us buy oil from countries that hate us so that those countries will have more money to buy weapons to try to kill us. Senator Bill Cassidy described the decision as part of Bidens broader anti-energy agenda: Its only fitting that as a parting shot, Joe Bidens war on American energy and the American energy worker continues, Cassidy said. This action cuts off well-paying energy jobs for Americans that want to have a better life to satisfy an environmental left wing who only cares about abstract notions. Congressman Clay Higgins pledged to fight the ban, stating: Joe Biden has been at war with the oil and gas industry since day one. His latest ban will not stand. Ill be introducing legislation ensuring President Trump can swiftly overturn this action and unleash American energy dominance. Energy summit highlights Louisianas rise in energy production, carbon capture industry Industry Leaders Weigh In The Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil and Gas Association (LMOGA), which represents key stakeholders in the states energy sector, criticized the decision. LMOGA President Tommy Faucheux said: American energy leadership is crucial for global stability, but it demands supportive policies from Washington. The recent offshore drilling ban, though not directly affecting the western Gulf of Mexico, is a blatant attack on the oil and natural gas industryan industry vital to our nations energy security and economic strength. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Faucheux added that LMOGA will work with the next presidential administration to reverse the policy and support American energy development. Broader Implications and Legal Hurdles Reversing the ban would require Congress to amend the 1953 law, making immediate action by President Trump unlikely. The ban focuses on protecting coastal regions and reducing risks associated with offshore drilling, including oil spills. It aligns with environmental conservation efforts to transition toward cleaner energy sources and mitigate environmental hazards. This is a developing story. Check back for updates. Latest Stories Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to BRProud.com. Lieutenant General Gen Sir Christopher Drewry, who has died aged 77, commanded the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (ARRC), saw active service in the Falklands conflict and was one of the outstanding staff officers of his generation. Christopher Francis Drewry was born at Wormhill, near Buxton, Derbyshire, on June 25 1947. His father, who was 58, had fought at Gallipoli and on the Western Front in the First World War, before becoming the Duke of Devonshires land agent for the Peak District. He was educated at Malvern College before going up to Oxford to read French and German. He joined the Welsh Guards straight from university and was sent on a Corporals Course to learn the basics of soldiering. In 1969, he was commissioned and joined the 1st Battalion (1WG) at Pirbright. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Battalion Intelligence Officer in South Armagh in the winter of 1973-74, he was awarded a commendation for exceptional service. He subsequently served as ADC to Major General Sir Philip Ward and then as adjutant when the battalion was deployed to Berlin in 1976 at the height of the Cold War. The battalion, commanded by his brother-in-law, Lt Col Charles (later Field Marshal Lord) Guthrie, was well-led, well-administered and highly motivated. Drewrys only headache was to restrain the forays of some of the young officers to a nightclub in the French Sector. On one occasion, he awarded 112 extra picquets when four of them returned from the club in the early hours and absented themselves from a brigade exercise that was designed to test the battalions readiness to deploy. At Staff College, he was awarded a rare top grade and his ability to draft the most complex of military papers, changing neither a word nor a comma, earned him the sobriquet One Draft Drewry. After serving as chief of staff of 6th Field Force, in 1982 he commanded a company during the Falklands campaign. They were in support of the Royal Marines in the attack on Mount Harriet but another company lost 32 men when Sir Galahad was bombed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This had a profound effect on morale. His arrival in 1985, however, to assume command of 1WG in Hohne, BAOR, led to a marked uplift in spirits and a return to its former esprit de corps. This period included a tour in Northern Ireland for which he was mentioned in despatches. Two years as Colonel Army Plans at the MOD led to command of 24 Airmobile Brigade in 1990. After returning to the MOD as Director of Army Plans, in 1995 he was appointed GOC UK Support Command at Rheindahlen, BAOR. An appointment as Assistant Chief of the Defence Staff for Policy followed and, in 2000, he was knighted, promoted to lieutenant general and assumed command of ARRC. The Corps provided Nato with a rapidly deployable, international force for operations and response to crisis. He had been offered the job of Adjutant General and expected to be promoted to full general but the appointment had been downgraded to three star. After 34 years service, having decided to resign, he returned to his farm in Derbyshire and wrote a book, The History of Wormhill in the High Peak. At home in Derbyshire, where he wrote a history of his village Well-received, the book covered the village from pre-historic times through its position on the 9th century boundary between Anglo-Saxon Mercia and the Danish-controlled Danelaw, to the death of the last wolf in the parish and the Industrial Revolution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He married, in 1976, Miranda Worrall, the daughter of a Coldstreamer, Colonel Claude Worrall. She survives him with a son and two daughters. Lt Gen Sir Christopher Drewry, born June 25 1947, died November 4 2024 Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Shortly after Russia's full-scale invasion began, Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko apologized to President Volodymyr Zelensky over the country's involvement in the war, Zelensky revealed in an interview with American podcaster Lex Fridman published on Jan. 5. "A few days into the war, I spoke with Lukashenko on the phone, and he apologized... he said, 'It was not me, missiles were launched from my territory, and (Russian President Vladimir) Putin was the one launching them.' These are his words, I have witnesses," Zelensky said in his wide-ranging interview. "'And I apologize,' he said. 'But believe me' that's what he told me 'Volodya (referring to Volodymyr Zelensky), this is not me. Im not in charge,'" Zelensky added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response, Zelensky said that he called Lukashenko "a murderer," questioning why Lukashenko allowed Russia to launch missiles at Ukraine from Belarusian territory. Lukashenko became increasingly reliant on Russia after isolating Belarus from the West, following Belarus' 2020 election. Lukashenko's opposition and the West condemned the results as fraudulent. Lukashenko cracked down on mass protests that broke out in response to the fraudulent election results. Since then, Belarusian authorities have increasingly suppressed political freedoms and have become complacent in Russia's war against Ukraine. Despite not being directly involved in Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Belarus continues to host Russian troops and missiles on its territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lukashenko asked Putin on Dec. 6 to deploy the Oreshnik missile systems in Belarus, a weapon Russia recently used to strike Ukraine, Russian state-controlled news agency RIA Novosti reported. As many as 10 missile systems will be deployed, according to pro-Kremlin journalist Alexander Yunashev. Belarus will be holding its next presidential election on Jan. 26 where Lukashenko is expected to be handed a seventh term in office. Read also: Lukashenko to visit China ahead of Belarus presidential elections Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Emmanuel Macron has accused Elon Musk of directly intervening in elections around the world, including Germanys elections next month. In a speech to French ambassadors on Monday, the French president said: Ten years ago, who could have imagined it if we had been told that the owner of one of the largest social networks in the world would support a new international reactionary movement and intervene directly in elections, including in Germany. Outlining Frances foreign policy for 2025, Mr Macron who did not directly name Mr Musk also re-emphasised Frances support for the incoming Trump administration, saying the US president-elect knows he has a strong ally in France. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Macrons response appears to be part of a concerted effort by European leaders to publicly push back against Mr Musk. He was joined by Sir Keir Starmer and the Norwegian prime minister in challenging the billionaire. He referenced meddling in Germany after Mr Musk expressed support for the hard-Right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party on his social media platform X and in an opinion column for the Welt am Sonntag newspaper. The Tesla billionaires piece claimed the portrayal of the AfD as Right-wing extremist is clearly false, considering that Alice Weidel, the partys leader, has a same-sex partner from Sri Lanka! Does that sound like Hitler to you? Please! Emmanuel Macron cuts the Epiphany cake after his speech to the French Bakery and Pastry Federation members at the Elysee Palace in Paris - SARAH MEYSSONNIER/AFP The newspapers opinion editor later said she had resigned after the column was published. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Musk has become increasingly open in his support for the party, which has been classified as a suspected extremist party by Germanys intelligence services. Last month, he declared that only the AfD can save Germany. On Sunday, Olaf Scholz, the German chancellor, responded to Mr Musks recent criticisms, saying: Dont feed the troll. As Social Democrats, we have long been used to the fact that there are rich media entrepreneurs who do not appreciate social democratic politics, and do not hide their opinions, he told the German outlet Stern, adding that he would make no effort to engage with Mr Musk. In his speech, Mr Macron said France remained a staunch ally of America and that he assumed a stance of relative prudence regarding Mr Trumps return to the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pair have had a chequered relationship, but Mr Macron scored a diplomatic coup last month when the US president-elect chose France as his first post-election destination to attend the reopening ceremony of Notre-Dame cathedral. Mr Musk, who Mr Macron received at the Elysee last year and called on to choose France for investment, was also among the guests at the ceremony in the restored cathedral. From 2016 to 2020, France knew how to work with president Trump, said Mr Macron, without denying the existence of disagreements concerning international order and the climate question, facing a very significant risk of regression because of the Trump administration resuming massive production of fossil fuels in a no-holds-barred manner. He added: Its up to us to know how to cooperate with the choice that has been made by the American people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Musks recent intervention into German politics is part of an ongoing feud against the chancellor, who he has branded a fool, referred to as Oaf Schitz, and repeatedly called on to resign. A German government spokesman played down Mr Musks influence on the countrys population, saying: The normal people, the sensible people, the decent people are far in the majority in this country. We act as if Mr Musks statements on Twitter could influence a country of 84 million people with untruths or half-truths or expressions of opinion. This is simply not the case. Mr Musk, who was rewarded with an advisory role in Trumps administration after playing a key role in the Republicans campaign, has increasingly been using X to push his political views, often backing hard-Right and anti-establishment parties across Europe while attacking centre-Left leaders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recently, the Tesla CEO has also waded aggressively into UK politics, calling for a new election and hitting out at Sir Keir Starmer over what he said was his failure to prosecute gangs of men who raped young girls. On Monday, the Prime Minister condemned the lies and misinformation undermining UK democracy following Mr Musks attacks on his Government. Jonas Gahr Store, the Norwegian prime minister, said on Monday he found it worrying that someone with such wealth and influence was getting involved in the politics of European countries. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. PARIS (AP) French President Emmanuel Macron said his country was a "a solid ally of President-elect Donald Trump on Monday as he outlined his vision for global diplomacy in 2025, while warning that France could lose the incoming U.S. leaders respect by being weak and defeatist. Donald Trump knows that he has a solid ally in France, an ally he does not underestimate, one who believes in Europe and carries a lucid ambition for the transatlantic relationship, Macron said in a New Year's speech at the Elysee Palace, emphasizing Frances commitment to fostering cooperation while urging European nations to fortify their unity and resilience. Last month, Trump visited Paris for the grand reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral, an event that underscored the enduring ties between France and the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If we decide to be weak and defeatist, there is little chance we will be respected by the United States under President Trump, Macron warned. The speech, delivered against a backdrop of geopolitical turmoil, laid out Frances foreign policy priorities, spanning the Ukraine war, European defense, and the Middle East. Even as Macron expressed openness to Trump, he delivered pointed criticism of tech mogul Elon Musk, a known Trump ally, for promoting what he described as a new reactionary international movement through his social media platform, X. Without naming Musk directly, Macron referenced his alleged support for Germanys far-right AfD party and his increasing interference in European elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Who could have imagined, 10 years ago, that the owner of one of the worlds largest social networks would intervene directly in elections, including in Germany? Macron said. He warned of the risks posed by unchecked power in the hands of tech billionaires and the destabilizing impact they could have on democratic institutions. Macron framed Musks influence as a challenge to Europes democratic values, reinforcing the need for European unity and resilience against external disruptions. Call for realism and responsibility on Ukraine Addressing the grinding war in Ukraine, Macron stressed the need for realistic discussions on territorial questions, adding, such negotiations can only be conducted by Ukrainians themselves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He called on the United States to help change the nature of the situation and convince Russia to come to the negotiating table, while underscoring Europes pivotal role. The Europeans will have to construct security guarantees for Ukraine, which will be primarily their responsibility, he said. Macron countered Trumps campaign pledge for an express settlement, warning, There is no quick and easy solution in Ukraine. He also highlighted the stakes for the United States, stating, The new American president himself knows the United States has no chance of winning anything if Ukraine loses. The French president further cautioned against compromise due to fatigue. The credibility of the West will be shattered if we compromise because of fatigue, he asserted, adding that a capitulation of Ukraine would be catastrophicnot just for Europe, but for U.S. credibility as well. Fight against terrorism is a central priority Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Macron addressed a range of pressing international issues, identifying Iran as the principal strategic and security challenge in the Middle East. He pointed to Tehrans accelerated nuclear program as a looming global threat, warning that the world is perilously close to the breaking point. On Syria, Macron reiterated Frances long-term commitment to supporting a democratic transition, pledging to remain faithful to Kurdish fighters battling terrorism. The fight against terrorism must remain central to our priorities, he said, reaffirming Frances backing for allies like the Kurds while advocating for a sovereign, pluralistic Syria. Europes defense and economic future In a sharp critique of Europes dependence on U.S. defense technology, Macron urged European nations to bolster their industrial capabilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If we depend on the American industrial base for our security, we will face strategic dilemmas that are both cruel and culpable, he warned. Macron also addressed the EU-Mercosur trade deal that France continues to oppose, signaling his country's intent to push for coherent commitments. The proposed agreement, which aims to reduce tariffs and boost trade between the European Union and South American countries, has been criticized for its potential environmental and agricultural impacts. The mass is not said. We will continue to defend the coherence of our commitments, Macron stated. Macrons remarks underscored Frances delicate balancing act on the global stagecollaborating with old allies while maintaining European sovereignty. French President Emmanuel Macron said Ukraine must be "realistic" on territorial concerns in any future negotiations to end the war with Russia. "The Ukrainians must have realistic talks on territorial issues," Macron said in remarks to a meeting of French ambassadors on Monday. Kiev has long taken the public position that it intends to regain all territory seized by Russia over the years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There will be no quick and easy solution in Ukraine," Macron said. The United States, for its part, should help the Europeans to convince Russia to come to the negotiating table, he added. US President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office on January 20, has said he wants to end Russia's war on Ukraine as quickly as possible. French President Emmanuel Macron on Jan. 6 called on Ukraine to have "realistic discussions on territorial issues" as they alone can conduct them. "There will be no quick and easy solution in Ukraine," Macron said in an address to French ambassadors in the Elysee Palace. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has previously vowed to bring both sides to the negotiating table and swiftly end the war. "The U.S. must help us to change the nature of the situation and convince Russia to come to the negotiating table," Macron said in comments quoted by France24. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia currently occupies around 20% of Ukrainian territory. President Volodymyr Zelensky has acknowledged that Ukraine's military currently lacks the strength to retake all of it by force, noting that some regions, like Crimea, will have to be liberated through diplomatic means. In his address, the French head of state warned of repercussions for Europe and the U.S. should Ukraine emerge from the war on the losing side. "The new American president himself knows that the U.S. has no chance of winning anything if Ukraine loses," Macron said. France's president also said that it would be up to European countries to "build security guarantees" for Ukraine, a statement in line with his calls for greater European strategic autonomy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Paris has spearheaded the idea of deploying European peacekeepers to Ukraine after a possible ceasefire deal is reached. Trump, who vowed to get the U.S. "out" of the conflict, has reportedly backed the idea, while Russia has rejected it. Trump's imminent return to the White House, Ukraine's military setbacks, and Russia's growing economic difficulties have contributed to expectations of possible peace talks in 2025. Kyiv's allies have said they seek to put Ukraine in the strongest possible position for any possible negotiations, with German government saying on Jan. 6 that peace cannot be "dictated" from Moscow. Read also: Zelensky offered to buy weapons from incoming Trump administration with frozen Russian assets Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. French President Emmanuel Macron believes Ukraine must have "realistic discussions" on territorial issues. Source: Emmanuel Macron during the annual meeting of French ambassadors to outline the main points of his foreign policy, as reported by European Pravda, citing BFMTV Details: Macron urged Ukrainians to "have realistic discussions on territorial issues" because "only they can do so" in order to find a solution to the conflict caused by Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote from Macron: "The United States must help us change the nature of the situation and convince Russia to come to the negotiating table," whereas Europeans will be expected to "build security guarantees" with regard to Ukraine, "which will be their first responsibility". More details: Macron also warned that "there will be no quick and easy solution in Ukraine", referring to Donald Trump's earlier promises to stop the war in 24 hours. "The new American president knows himself that the United States has no chance of winning anything if Ukraine loses," Macron said, adding that Ukraine's capitulation would be bad for both Europeans and Americans. The French president further stated that "trust" in the West would be "undermined" if it reached a "compromise" out of "war fatigue". Background: According to Slovak President Peter Pellegrini, peace in Ukraine can only be achieved through compromise, including territorial concessions. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that the first talks on ending the war will take place with US President-elect Donald Trump after his inauguration, and then, potentially, with Russian ruler Vladimir Putin. Support UP or become our patron! UPDATE (January 6, 2025, 9:48 a.m. ET): Shortly after this report was published, Donald Trump's defense attorneys made public a new court filing, trying to delay sentencing in the president-elect's hush money case. During Donald Trumps first presidential transition process, the Republican ran into an unfortunate legal mess: Just days after winning a first term, the then-president-elect faced a court date in a civil trail over his fraudulent Trump University scheme. He did, however, manage to avoid the embarrassment: After vowing to never settle the case out of court, Trump agreed to an out-of-court settlement in the fraud case. During his second presidential transition process, hes facing an even more serious legal matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its been roughly six months since a jury found Trump guilty of 34 counts of falsifying business records as part of the Republicans hush money scandal. It was the first time in American history in which a former president was found to have committed multiple felonies. Trumps lawyers tried to overturn the verdict, pointing to the U.S. Supreme Courts highly controversial immunity ruling. That didnt work: Merchan concluded last month that the hush money payments that the president-elect made to Stormy Daniels had nothing to do with Trumps official acts while in office. There was only one key step remaining. As my MSNBC colleague Jordan Rubin explained: Judge Juan Merchan rejected a motion from Donald Trump to dismiss the New York hush money case and set the president-elects sentencing for Jan. 10. Merchan said Trump can appear virtually or in person for the sentencing and the judge said he is not inclined to sentence Trump to prison. The 34 counts of falsifying business records for which Trump was found guilty at trial do not mandate incarceration. In theory, this appears to be an outcome the president-elect should like. Yes, hell be a convicted felon, but he doesnt have to show up in court, and as a practical matter, hell hardly be punished at all. As Jordans piece added, Merchan said a sentence of unconditional discharge appears to be the most viable solution to ensure finality and allow Defendant to pursue his appellate options. Under New York law, a sentence of unconditional discharge is one imposed without imprisonment, fine or probation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, sentencing will mean at least some accountability for the Republican and he doesnt appear to be taking this well. On Friday, after Merchan advanced the process, Trump began publishing a series of online tantrums, the first of which condemned the matter as a nonexistent case, an illegitimate political attack and a Rigged Charade. While most criminal defendants at least pretend to show some contrition ahead of sentencing, Trump lashed out at Merchan as a radical partisan, whos engaged in unlawful misconduct. This was soon followed by another item, also published to his social media platform, in which the president-elect described the judge as corrupt. A day later, the Republican again called Merchan corrupt; mischaracterized the court-imposed gag order; and called for the New York judges disbarment. But the more hysterical Trump became, the more he widened the rage aperture. The president-elect proceeded to lash out at news organizations, Judge Arthur Engoron (whom he also described as corrupt), the court system, E. Jean Carroll, special counsel Jack Smith, and the Justice Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And then he kept going. The Republican also condemned corrupt Democrat [sic] judges and prosecutors, the evil and sinister special counsel, President Joe Biden, and the CORRUPT DOJ and FBI, culminating in yet another online missive in which Trump peddled odd conspiracy theories, called Merchan a HACK, condemned his trial as a sham, accused the judge in the case of having fabricated the facts. If Trump is hoping that Merchan will see all of this and throw out the jurys verdict, I have some bad news for the president-elect. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com A wide variety of Democratic members of Congress issued unflinching statements on the anniversary of the Jan. 6 attack, including House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, who wrote that the insurrectionist riot shook our Republic to its core. The California Democrat, who led the chamber on this day four years ago, added, We must never forget the extraordinary courage of law enforcement officers on January 6th who stood in the breach and stared down the insurrectionists to protect the Capitol, the Congress and the Constitution. Pelosis intraparty successor, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, added that the American people must never be allowed to forget the events of Jan. 6. The New York Democrat went on to say that history will always remember the attempted insurrection and we will never allow the violence that unfolded in plain sight to be whitewashed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sentiments expressed by some of their GOP colleagues were ... different. Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, for example, published an online statement that referred to Jan. 6 criminal suspects as political prisoners, adding that the rioters simply protested an election ... for a few hours. But to fully appreciate just how far some far-right members of Congress are willing to go, consider what Republican Rep. Mike Collins of Georgia published online on the fourth anniversary of the assault on the Capitol: On #ThisDayInHistory in 2021, thousands of peaceful grandmothers gathered in Washington, D.C., to take a self-guided, albeit unauthorized, tour of the U.S. Capitol building. Earlier that day, President Trump held a rally, where supporters walked to the Capitol to peacefully protest the certification of the 2020 election. During this time, some individuals entered the Capitol, took photos, and explored the building before leaving. It reads like a caricature of someone trying to make congressional Republicans appear foolish, but there was no indication that Collins was kidding or trying to promote a satirical perspective. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the contrary, after describing the attack as a self-guided ... tour a phrase that dovetails nicely with Republican Rep. Andrew Clyde of Georgias description of the assault as a normal tourist visit in June 2021 Collins added: Since then, hundreds of peaceful protestors have been hunted down, arrested, held in solitary confinement, and treated unjustly. Countless hours and taxpayer dollars have been spent pursuing innocent grandmothers and raiding President Trumps home, while terrorists and millions of illegal immigrants continue to cross our nations borders, causing havoc in our communities. The congressman concluded his bizarre missive by welcoming Jan. 6 pardons from Donald Trump. This is the same federal lawmaker who responded to the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, by complaining about wokeness at the Department of Transportation, and who wrote after an assassination attempt against Trump, Joe Biden sent the orders. Collins also is known for promoting a strangely edited photograph of Vice President-elect J.D. Vance and for responding to the story about Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s reported brain worm by writing, You either die a Kennedy with a hole in the brain or live long enough to become a Kennedy with a hole in the brain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the November election, Collins won re-election in his Georgia district with roughly 63% support. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com In the days leading up to the fourth anniversary of the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, President Joe Biden made little effort to hide the fact that the insurrectionist riot was on his mind. Indeed, last week, the retiring incumbent awarded Democratic Rep. Bennie Thompson of Mississippi and former Republican Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming the leaders of the now-defunct bipartisan Jan. 6 committee with the Presidential Citizens Medal. A few days later, during an exchange with reporters at the White House, Biden said, in reference to the Jan. 6 assault, I think it should not be rewritten. I dont think it should be forgotten. On the anniversary of the Trump-inspired violence, the Democratic president went further, writing an opinion piece for The Washington Post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An unrelenting effort has been underway to rewrite even erase the history of that day. To tell us we didnt see what we all saw with our own eyes. To dismiss concerns about it as some kind of partisan obsession. To explain it away as a protest that just got out of hand. This is not what happened. In time, there will be Americans who didnt witness the Jan. 6 riot firsthand but will learn about it from footage and testimony of that day, from what is written in history books and from the truth we pass on to our children. We cannot allow the truth to be lost. Part of what makes this so notable is the degree to which it captures where things stand in relation to the public discourse. Four years after the violence, we could certainly have another conversation about Donald Trump standing by for hours as a mob of his supporters attacked his own countrys Capitol, as part of a bid to claim illegitimate power in the wake of an election defeat. We could review anew what the rioters did, their intentions, their motivations, their weapons, their enablers, their willingness to violently clash with law enforcement, and even their terrifying proximity to then-Vice President Mike Pence. But on the fourth anniversary of one of the most important examples of domestic political violence in our nations history, perhaps no element of the conversation is more important than the ongoing crusade to bully Americans memories into submission. On Jan. 6, 2021, Trump and his allies engaged in a war against democracy. On Jan. 6, 2025, the conflict has evolved to include a war against the recent past. Four years ago at this time, Trump was a defeated failure whose pathetic political career lay in ruins, and there was a broad agreement among officials in both parties that he deserved to be held accountable for his role in inciting the attack. The riot was so indefensible that the initial line from some Republicans was that the violence should be blamed on far-left Antifa radicals who were, the absurd theory posited, only pretending to be Trump supporters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Variations on these ridiculous conspiracy theories continue to be popular in conservative circles, with related nonsense about the FBI being secretly responsible for encouraging rioters to commit crimes. Paradoxically, while too many Republicans have implicitly conceded that the attack was atrocious while trying to steer the blame away from those who actually bear responsibility, of course others in the party have decided to recast the villains as heroes and victims. The New York Times published a striking report on the GOPs inverted interpretation, which defied what the country had watched unfold. That day was an American calamity. Lawmakers huddled for safety. Vice President Mike Pence eluded a mob shouting that he should be hanged. Several people died during and after the riot, including one protester by gunshot and four police officers by suicide, and more than 140 officers were injured in a protracted melee that nearly upended what should have been the routine certification of the electoral victory of Mr. Trumps opponent, Joseph R. Biden Jr. But with his return to office, Mr. Trump now has the platform to further rinse and spin the Capitol attack into what he has called a day of love. He has vowed to pardon rioters in the first hour of his new administration, while his congressional supporters are pushing for criminal charges against those who investigated his actions on that chaotic day. Given my recent book about Republican efforts to rewrite recent history, this is a subject of particular interest to me, and my chapter on Jan. 6 is arguably the most important in the text. Indeed, part of what makes the rights gambit so extraordinary is the obvious fact that rewriting the story seemed impossible at the time. The indelible video and images were simply too powerful to ignore or forget. The rioters on the Senate floor. The guns drawn at the entry to the House chamber. The noose displayed on a gallows. The hang Mike Pence chants. The plastic zip-tie handcuffs. The elected officials running to safety. The Confederate flag that never reached Capitol Hill during the Civil War, but which was carried down congressional hallways in January 2021. A rioter grinning with apparent pride as he put his foot on the speaker of the Houses desk. The insurrectionists breaking into the building, climbing its walls, violently clashing with law enforcement, all while Trump flags waved around them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The chilling footage was seen by too many people, domestically and around the world, for reality to yield. The details surrounding the attack from its perpetrators to its instigators, its purpose to its effects, its organizers to its victims were too well documented by investigators, policymakers, journalists, and prosecutors. The idea of a political party even attempting to rewrite the story of the assault seemed preposterous. It would not happen. It could not happen. That is, until Republicans decided it had to happen. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Todays installment of campaign-related news items from across the country. * Rep. Ralph Norman initially opposed House Speaker Mike Johnsons bid for a second term, and while the South Carolina Republican ultimately switched his vote, theres still growing talk about a possible GOP primary challenge against the incumbent ahead of 2026 cycle. * With less than a month to go before Democrats choose the next chair of the Democratic National Committee, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has thrown his support behind Ben Wikler. The announcement from the New York senator is likely to give the Wisconsin state party leader an important boost in the intraparty contest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Its not yet clear exactly who Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine will appoint to replace Vice President-elect JD Vance in the Senate, but NBC News reported that Jon Husted, the Buckeye States Republican lieutenant governor, has emerged as the leading contender for the seat. * Amid rumors that Rep. Ritchie Torres is eyeing a Democratic primary campaign against New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, the congressman continues to criticize the incumbent governor in ways that raise eyebrows. * Its an election year in Virginia, and former Rep. Denver Riggleman is reportedly exploring an independent statewide campaign. According to The Washington Post, the former congressman who served one term as a Republican would run for either governor or lieutenant governor. * In Colorado, where term limits prevent Democratic Gov. Jared Polis from seeking a third term, state Attorney General Phil Weiser has already kicked off his 2026 candidacy. Its unlikely, however, that hell run unopposed in a Democratic primary. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com When it comes to prominent Republican officials getting caught peddling fake historical quotes, Sen. Rand Paul tends to be in a league of his own. The Kentucky Republican has, after all, been caught pushing fake quotes from Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Patrick Henry, Abraham Lincoln and George Washington. Paul, however, is not without company. On the Fourth of July in 2023, for example, Sen. Josh Hawley promoted a fake quote from Patrick Henry. (When he got caught, the Missouri Republican boasted that the the libs were major triggered by his willingness to amplify misinformation.) Late last week, House Speaker Mike Johnson joined the club. The Washington Post reported: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shortly before Mike Johnson was sworn in as House speaker on Friday, he stood in front of the incoming members of Congress and offered what he said was a prayer for the nation that was said every day Thomas Jefferson was in the White House and and every day thereafter until his death. Johnson attributed that detail to a program distributed at a bipartisan interfaith church service where he spoke earlier that day. Johnson told the lawmakers, it is quite familiar to historians and probably many of us. As it turns out, however, if the Jefferson prayer is quite familiar to historians, its probably because historians keep trying to tell people that the prayer has been falsely attributed to Jefferson for far too long. To be sure, the Louisiana Republican delivered his remarks with great confidence, quoting the Jefferson prayer at length, as if the quote were real. There is, however, no evidence suggesting Jefferson ever uttered the prayer. Indeed, this mistake is so common that the Thomas Jefferson Foundation has a dedicated online page published long before the House speakers comments from Friday that sets the record straight. We have no evidence that this prayer was written or delivered by Thomas Jefferson. It appears in the 1928 United States Book of Common Prayer, and was first suggested for inclusion in a report published in 1919. ... Ultimately, it seems unlikely that Jefferson would have composed or delivered a public prayer of this sort. He considered religion a private matter, and when asked to recommend a national day of fasting and prayer, replied, I consider the government of the US. as interdicted by the constitution from intermedling with religious institutions, their doctrines, discipline, or exercises. But stepping back, the problem is not just that some GOP officials keep peddling fake quotes from the Founding Fathers. The problem is also why they keep doing this. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The common thread tying together most of these fake quotes is the idea that the nations founders were eager to combine religion and politics. The historical record proves otherwise. As historian Kevin Kruse explained in a terrific 2023 piece: [I]ts better, I think, to brush aside these politicians and partisans who cherry-pick their way through the founding era and simply remind them that in the Constitution of the United States you know, the document that actually founded this country and established its rules and norms none of their wish casting for a Christian nation finds any support at all. Quite right. Ive long believed that this effectively ends any debate: The Constitution is a secular document that created a secular government. Period. Full stop. For opponents of church-state separation, this nagging detail must be terribly frustrating, but reality is stubborn. Either the nations founders created a secular constitutional system that guarantees religious liberty for all, or they meant to base our constitutional system of government on Christianity but somehow forgot. This post updates our related earlier coverage. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com A subway maniac with 87 prior arrests was just busted for two transit stabbings carrying the large knife he allegedly used in the violence, police and sources said Sunday. Jamar Banks a 52-year-old with a long rap sheet and history of mental illness was nabbed by the NYPD Warrant Squad around midnight at the 219th Street station in The Bronx and brought to the NYPDs Transit Bureau District 2 in Manhattan, police sources said. He was carrying what had been described by police as a large knife, which he allegedly used in last weeks attacks, sources said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Banks was last busted in November twice for petty theft and released with summonses to later appear in court, sources said. Surveillance video shows Banks with a large knife, cops said. Obtained by The New York Post He is being held on charges of first-degree assault and third-degree weapons possession in last weeks straphanger stabbings, cops said. The suspect looked disheveled when he was walked out of the transit district in cuffs Sunday afternoon, with his torn white jeans collapsing down his skinny legs to show his red underwear. He refused to say a word when asked about the stabbings by The Post, and he seemed dazed and overwhelmed as reporters hurled questions at him. He was eventually taken to the hospital, court officials said, without providing further details. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One woman yelled out, Youre disgusting! as the accused was led into a waiting police cruiser. Alina Goldfine, a 19-year-old student at NYU Stern, was heading to the Midtown campus when she stumbled across the perp walk. Its disgusting, and he needs to be punished at whatever cost, Goldfine told The Post, adding thatcity subway crime is out of control. Its horrible, she said. Im a student in New York, and I feel very terrified to even take the subway. It makes it unaffordable for me to travel everywhere. Police were searching for Banks in connection with two subway stabbings. Obtained by The New York Post Banks is a frequent flier on the No. 2 and No. 5 subway lines, according to a message sent to police officers before his arrest and obtained by The Post. He was nabbed at a station on the lines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers were warned that they should use extreme caution approaching the suspected criminal because he might be carrying the attack weapon. Banks was wanted for allegedly stabbing a 31-year-old man on a No. 2 train at 14th Street and Seventh Avenue in Manhattan on Wednesday after arguing with his victim, cops said. He is also suspected of starting another argument with an off-duty MTA cleaner about 6 a.m. Thursday, then knifing his victim in the back and armpit on the northbound No. 6 train platform at Pelham Bay station in The Bronx, police said. The attacker fled after both stabbings. Both victims were taken to hospitals in stable condition. Banks allegedly knifed an off-duty MTA cleaner at the Pelham Bay station in The Bronx. Robert Miller Banks rap sheet includes arrests for alleged attempted murder, weapons possession, assault, criminal trespassing, turnstile jumping and petty larceny, police sources said. Team MAGA jumped at the opportunity to troll Canadas Prime Minister Justin Trudeau after he announced his resignation on Monday. Trudeau, who is stepping down after almost a decade in the role, has frequently been the target of Donald Trump, who has referred to Canada as the 51st state on multiple occasions. In his announcement on Monday, Trudeau said that he cannot be the best option in the upcoming election after facing calls within his caucus to step down for months. Just last month, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland resigned after accusing him of being unprepared for the tariff threats from Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, the president-elects allies are celebrating. While other countries prosecuted citizens who went abroad to fight with ISIS, in 2017 Justin Trudeau said hed welcome ISIS fighters into Canada saying they could be rehabilitated, Turning Point founder Charlie Kirk wrote to X. This is what a fool and a sucker looks like. Billionaire Elon Musk responded simply, saying that 2025 is looking good while retweeting posts about Trumps call to take in Canada. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene even went as far as to say Trump liberated Canada. After tyrannical Covid abuse, destroying free speech, importing military aged male refugees, and being Zelenskys biggest cheerleader, Trudeau RESIGNS!, Greene posted. President Trump has liberated Canada after trolling Trudeau by calling him Governor of Canada. After tyrannical Covid abuse, destroying free speech, importing military aged male refugees, and being Zelenskys biggest cheerleader, Trudeau RESIGNS!pic.twitter.com/rOiHzfMABT Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) January 6, 2025 The resignation news also caused Trump to double down on taking over Canada, two weeks before hes officially back in the White House. Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State, he wrote to Truth Social on Monday. If Canada merged with the U.S., there would be no Tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be TOTALLY SECURE from the threat of the Russian and Chinese Ships that are constantly surrounding them. Democrats on New Yorks Long Island cried foul over the weekend after a Donald Trump-supporting county executive did not lower his jurisdictions flags to half-staff in honor of the late President Jimmy Carter, who died last Sunday at the age of 100. Nassau County executive Bruce Blakeman seemingly relented and released a statement Sunday saying that he would allow flags to be lowered for just three daysa significantly shorter period of time than most other municipalities in New York State and across the country. The period in question, Jan. 7 to Jan. 9, also notably would not include Trumps inauguration day. Last week, Trump pitched a fit on Truth Social over the fact that flags would likely be flying at half-staff across the country when he is set to be sworn into office on Jan. 20. The flags in Nassau County will be at half-staff for President Carter from the commencement of Lying in State on January 7th through burial on January 9th. pic.twitter.com/tkzs0IXF0X Bruce Blakeman (@NassauExec) January 5, 2025 The Democrats are all giddy about our magnificent American Flag potentially being at half mast during my Inauguration. They think its so great, and are so happy about it because, in actuality, they dont love our Country, they only think about themselves, Trump wrote to Truth Social on Friday. In any event, because of the death of President Jimmy Carter, the Flag may, for the first time ever during an Inauguration of a future President, be at half mast. Nobody wants to see this, and no American can be happy about it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps online supporters all agreed. OUR FLAG SHOULD BE FLYING FULLY MAST FOR THE PEOPLES PRESIDENTS INAUGURATION, a Truth Social user commented on his post. They Are Showing Us They Hate Us because WE CHOSE THE PRESIDENT AND WE Are Taking Back OUR POWER! Anything to disrupt President Trumps Inauguration makes the Dems happy, another user wrote. Im so sick of all of this. Blakeman, once called a mini-Trump by New Yorks Democratic Chair Jay Jacobs, has staunchly supported the billionaire over the years. He also spoke at a rally with Trump during the 2024 campaign and held an umbrella over the incoming president during a press conference earlier this year. Trump makes Bruce Blakeman, Nassau County Executive, hold his umbrella as he delivers statement to media pic.twitter.com/bzf8SKXNLk Jacob N. Kornbluh (@jacobkornbluh) March 28, 2024 Many Democrats were incensed when Blakeman seemingly sided with Trump and left the flags on Nassau County-run buildings flying high, despite both New York State and neighboring Suffolk County lowering theirs from Dec. 30 through the last week of January. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seth Koslow, a Democratic county legislator, told CBS News New York that politics shouldnt play into the decision whether to honor a former president. This should be about whats right for a person who represented our country, who guided our country and then served our country when they were done as president, and its the right thing to do, he said. Under Blakemans post announcing the flag lowering, commenters remained split on the decision. Show some respect and fly them at half staff for the 30 days that President Biden called for. Stop being a partisan shill, wrote one commenter under his statement on X. All flags should be raised to their highest point. Enough with the nonsense, wrote another. Representative Mike Collins has taken the Republican rewrites of the January 6 riot to new heights. On #ThisDayInHistory in 2021, thousands of peaceful grandmothers gathered in Washington, D.C., to take a self-guided, albeit unauthorized, tour of the U.S. Capitol building, Collins wrote in a particularly stupid post on X Monday. Earlier that day, President Trump held a rally, where supporters walked to the Capitol to peacefully protest the certification of the 2020 election. During this time, some individuals entered the Capitol, took photos, and explored the building before leaving, Collins continued, sanewashing the violent siege that led to the deaths of five people, cost taxpayers more than $2 million, and set off a delayed-released coup that finally came to fruition with Trumps return to the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Georgia Republican stayed strapped to the soapbox, lamenting the peaceful protestors whod been tried for their participation in the violent insurrection. Since then, hundreds of peaceful protestors have been hunted down, arrested, held in solitary confinement, and treated unjustly. Countless hours and taxpayer dollars have been spent pursuing innocent grandmothers and raiding President Trumps home, while terrorists and millions of illegal immigrants continue to cross our nations borders, causing havoc in our communities, Collins wrote. Thankfully, President Trump has announced that, on day one of his presidency, he will grant pardons to nonviolent defendants. Collins has a penchant for pathetic posting. In October, he inexplicably posted a highly-edited Chad-ified image of JD Vance that slimmed down his jaw and brought his chin to a point implant-like point. Trump has repeatedly vowed to mass-pardon his supporters who ransacked the U.S. Capitol within his first days in office, a promise that inspired his supporters to tryso far unsuccessfullyto get their sentences delayed until after he officially enters office later this month. Jan. 6Central Maine Power Co. customers began paying 7% more in their monthly bills Jan. 1 to help fund $3.3 billion of upgrades to transmission lines, poles and other equipment in New England. Some Versant Power ratepayers can also expect increases, though smaller. Federal regulators are apportioning about $280 million of the region's costs to Maine's two major utilities, with the remainder assigned to utilities in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont. The costs are divided based on load, or how much electricity each service area uses. Consumer advocates in the region have criticized the practice of assigning transmission costs to ratepayers, saying upgrades proposed by utilities are often unnecessary, insufficiently regulated and enhance the value of assets for shareholders at the expense of customers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The ratepayers are the only wallets in the room," said Donald M. Kreis, New Hampshire's consumer advocate, who says poles, wires and other components of transmission are overbuilt. As an example, one energy company proposed rebuilding a 49-mile transmission line in New Hampshire for $384 million when less than 8% of it needed to be replaced, according to consumer advocates. Versant said transmission rates are set by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission "using a preset formula and cover needed investments" in local transmission and regional investments. "Most of the transmission rate increase is due to Versant paying our share to support regional transmission projects as part of our ISO-New England membership," it said in an emailed statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CMP spokesman Jon Breed said ratepayer-funded spending authorized by FERC "will help reduce outages and protect our system from the threats of extreme weather in Maine." New England's transmission is a nearly 9,000-mile system, he said. How the money in its entirety will eventually be spent is unclear. Eversource Energy, the parent company of utilities in Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Hampshire, has plans for numerous projects, such as a partial line rebuild and other work totaling nearly $80 million in Connecticut, as well as a $7.4 million rebuild of a substation in Massachusetts. "We're responsible for maintaining just under half of the regional transmission system in New England and are constantly working to upgrade and modernize the transmission system, making the electric grid more resilient to increasing extreme weather caused by climate change and improving reliability for customers across New England," Eversource spokeswoman Jamie Ratliff said in an email. A representative of National Grid, the parent company of New England Power Co., which said its revenue requirement is $485.4 million this year, did not respond to an emailed request for information about its projects. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CMP customers who use an average of 550 kilowatt-hours of electricity a month are paying $149.83, up from $139.62 in 2024, according to the Maine Office of the Public Advocate. Versant customers in the Bangor Hydro District who use the same amount of power pay $155.80, up from $148.09 a 5.2% increase, the utility said. Customers in Versant's Maine Public District in the northern reaches of the state pay $146.37, an increase from $144.35. Utilities in New England say "revenue requirements" of $3.3 billion are needed for 2025, up more than 16% from last year, according to the New England Power Pool, or NEPOOL, an advisory group of utilities, consumer advocates, consumers and others. Together, CMP and Versant account for 8.4% of the revenue needed in the region for the transmission upgrades, as identified by the utilities. In contrast, subsidiaries of Eversource Energy account for nearly 59%, or about $1.9 billion. Increased rates for consumers are not due solely to transmission costs. Utilities also are collecting more than $254 million, including interest, to compensate for previous undercollecting of revenue based on the difference between cost forecasts and actual costs last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ratiliff said the rate change is "largely the result" of utilities recovering less of their 2023 transmission costs. Still, the largest driver of higher rates that took effect Wednesday is significant construction by utilities and replacing older transmission equipment, Landry said. "They figured out they can build stuff and send the bills and everyone has to pay them," he said. The transmission costs will overwhelm a slight decline in CMP electricity bills approved by Maine regulators in November. A lower 2025 standard offer rate the default supply price for most home and small-business customers who don't buy electricity with competitive energy providers reflects stable natural gas prices, the main driver of power generation in New England. Versant's Bangor Hydro District customers began paying higher rates Jan. 1 for transmission costs and the standard offer rate that applies to most ratepayers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seth Berry, a former state legislator who chaired the Legislature's Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee and is critical of the performance of investor-owned utilities, said scrutiny by state regulators could uncover weaknesses in the argument for transmission upgrades and force utilities to scale back their plans. The lure of profitability is difficult for utilities to resist and the result, he said, is "a race to a very expensive and overbuilt transmission network." Utilities should instead focus on repairing and upgrading "very creaky" distribution systems, he said. The networks of roadside power lines is most vulnerable to storms and potential damage that knocks out power. Copy the Story Link PUTRAJAYA, Malaysia (AP) Malaysia's imprisoned former Prime Minister Najib Razak on Monday won an appeal to pursue his bid to serve his remaining corruption sentence under house arrest. In an application in April last year, Najib said he had clear information that then-King Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah issued an addendum order allowing him to finish his sentence under house arrest. Najib claimed the addendum was issued during a pardons board meeting on Jan. 29 last year chaired by Sultan Abdullah that also cut his 12-year jail sentence by half and sharply reduced a fine. But the High Court threw out his bid three months later. The Court of Appeals, in a 2-1 ruling on Monday, ordered the High Court to hear the merits of the case. The decision came after Najib's lawyer produced a letter from a Pahang state palace official confirming that Sultan Abdullah had issued the addendum order. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are happy that finally Najib has got a win, his lawyer Mohamad Shafee Abdullah said. He is very happy and very relieved that finally they recognized some element of injustice that has been placed against him. He said it was criminal for the government to conceal the addendum order. Shafee said that a new High Court judge will hear the case. In his application, Najib accused the pardons board, home minister, attorney-general and four others of concealing the sultans order in bad faith. Sultan Abdullah hails from Najibs hometown in Pahang. He ended his five-year reign on Jan. 30 last year under Malaysias unique rotating monarchy system. A new king toverok office a day later. Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said his ministry and the prisons department only received the pardons board's order to commute Najib's sentence. He said he wasn't disputing that an addendum order exists but that he has no knowledge of it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Najib, 71, served less than two years of his sentence before it was commuted by the pardons board. His sentence is now due to end on Aug. 23, 2028. He was found guilty in a corruption case linked to the multibillion-dollar looting of state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad. The pardons board didnt give any reason for its decision and wasnt required to explain. But the move has prompted a public outcry over the appearance that Najib was being given special privileges compared to other prisoners. Najib set up the 1MDB development fund shortly after he took office in 2009. Investigators allege at least $4.5 billion was stolen from the fund and laundered by Najibs associates through layers of bank accounts in the United States and other countries, financed Hollywood films and extravagant purchases that included hotels, a luxury yacht, art and jewelry. More than $700 million landed in Najibs bank accounts. Najib is still fighting graft charges in the main trial linking him directly to the scandal. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A 69-year-old man is facing numerous charges after Portland police say he kidnapped and repeatedly sexually assaulted a woman after helping her carry groceries home before and during the Christmas holiday. According to Portland police, a 74-year-old woman reported that on Dec. 23 she was returning to her Downtown Portland home with groceries and stopped to rest momentarily. The victim said she was approached by a man who offered to help carry the bags, but when they arrived at her home, he barricaded the door and stopped her from leaving. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Legacy nurses at 3 Oregon hospitals announce intent to unionize Over the course of three days, the woman told police she was sexually assaulted multiple times until finally, she was able to convince the man to leave on Dec. 26. The suspect was quickly identified as Kenneth Gregory Williams and police contacted his parole officer who put out a warrant for his arrest. Williams was taken into custody on Jan. 5 and after talking with detectives, he was booked on three counts of first-degree rape, first-degree kidnapping, first-degree coercion and first-degree burglary. Police said that Williams is currently under investigation for other unrelated rape allegations and that there could be even more unreported cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information about Williams is asked to contact Portland police. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BOARDMAN, Ohio (WKBN) A man is facing a misdemeanor charge of theft after a neighbor told police he stole six of her chickens. Officers with Boardman Police Department spoke to an Island Drive resident who told them she saw a neighbor enter her backyard on Dec. 22 and take one a hen, tucking it into his coat and walking away, reports state. The woman told police she confronted the 19-year-old suspect, demanding he return the chicken. Reports state the man repeated Will you forgive me? in a robotic tone, at one point hugging her and getting down on his knees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman was missing a total of six chickens over the last three months. Reports state she asked the man, Did you sacrifice my chickens? to which he replied, Yes. On Saturday, police executed an arrest warrant on the theft charge, taking the man to the police station to be photographed and fingerprinted before he was released with a court summons for Tuesday, Jan. 7. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. FRANKLIN COUNTY, GA (WSPA) A man is in jail after he allegedly assaulted his girlfriend and barricaded himself in her home on Sunday. According to Franklin County Sheriffs Office, at around 6:50 p.m. Sunday, deputies were called to a gas station in Lavonia after a man later identified as William Gregory Ballenger, 43, reportedly assaulted his girlfriend by hitting her in the face and made threats to her and himself. While deputies were at the gas station with the victim, Lavonia Police received a call stating Ballenger had barricaded himself in a home belonging to the victim on Rainbow Drive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sheriffs office said it attempted to negotiate with Ballenger, but were not successful. With help from Lavonia Police Department, Georgia State Patrol, Georgia Power and Georgia State Patrol SWAT team, the sheriffs office said it was able to arrest Ballenger with minor injuries from a dog bite. Ballenger has been charged with aggravated assault, battery and terroristic threats and acts. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A 25-year-old man has been charged with assisting former soldier Daniel Khalife after the serviceman escaped from prison. Imran Chowdhury of Chingford, east London, is accused of helping Khalife after he broke out of HMP Wandsworth. Khalife tied himself to the underside of a food delivery truck in September 2023 to escape while awaiting trial on espionage charges. He was arrested after four days on the run and in November 2024, partway through his trial at Woolwich Crown Court, he pleaded guilty to absconding from the category B prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Khalife was found guilty of spying for Iran but was cleared of carrying out a bomb hoax at his army barracks. He has yet to be sentenced. Prosecutors told Khalifes trial that the former soldier played a cynical game, claiming he wanted a career as a double agent to help the British intelligence services when in fact he gathered a very large body of restricted and classified material. Police described him as the ultimate Walter Mitty character that was having a significant impact on the real world. Dominic Murphy, head of the Metropolitan Polices Counter Terrorism Command said: Ego is a factor, Ive got no doubt hes got an uncanny ability to manipulate others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think he probably enjoyed the thrill of deception throughout. Chowdhury was arrested in January 2024 and was charged in December via postal requisition with one count of assisting an escaped prisoner, the Metropolitan Police said. He is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on Tuesday. A 25-year-old woman who was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender in February 2024 will face no further action. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. LONDON (AP) A man has been charged with assisting a former British soldier later convicted of spying for Iran in his escape from a London prison, police said Monday. Imran Chowdhury, 25, was charged with one count of assisting an escaped prisoner for helping Daniel Khalife after he broke out of Wandsworth prison in September 2023, the Metropolitan Police said. Khalife strapped himself beneath a food delivery truck and ignited a massive police search while he was on the run for three days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Khalife, 23, was convicted in November of violating Britains Official Secrets Act and Terrorism Act by collecting information useful to an enemy Iran. He faces sentencing later this year. Police did not specify what assistance Chowdhury provided to Khalife while he was on the run. A 25-year-old woman who had been arrested on suspicion of helping him will not face charges, police said. Khalife had testified at his trial that his contacts with the Iranian government were a ploy to work as a double agent for Britain, but his lawyer said his James Bond aspirations were more Scooby Doo than 007. Prosecutors said his crime was serious and that he had passed on secret and sensitive information that could have exposed other troops to serious harm. SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) A man who is charged with carrying out San Franciscos first homicide of 2025 will appear in court on Monday to face murder charges. Jose Gonzalo Rivera Flores, 29, is accused of shooting a victim at a gas station in the Mission District. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner identified the victim as Gerardo De Avila Garcia, 36, of San Francisco. I would like to send my condolences to the victims friends and family, and everyone impacted by this brazen New Years Day killing, said District Attorney Brooke Jenkins. I would also like to thank the San Francisco Police Department for making an immediate arrest in this case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The killing happened at 12:25 a.m. on January 1, police said. San Francisco Police Department officers found Garcia on the ground and suffering from multiple gunshot wounds at the gas station on South Van Ness Ave. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. The shooter fled from the scene in an SUV, police said. Officers quickly found the SUV on Bayshore Boulevard and arrested Flores. A witness told Mission Local that Flores initially became agitated because he had paid for gas but the pump was not working. When Flores talked badly to a female employee, the victim intervened, saying he should not talk that way to a woman, Mission Local reported. Flores allegedly opened fire on Garcia just outside the gas stations store. He is scheduled to be arraigned Monday afternoon in the Hall of Justice. Prosecutors said they will ask a judge to deny bail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A 39-year-old man has been charged with sending malicious communications to Jess Phillips following Elon Musks criticism of her response to the grooming gang scandal. Devon and Cornwall Police said Jack Bennett had been charged with sending offensive messages to the Birmingham Yardley MP and two other people. The force said the charges related to reports of alleged malicious communications being sent between April 2024 and January 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Bennett, from Seaton in East Devon, has been charged with three counts of malicious communications and has been bailed to appear before Exeter magistrates court on Feb 18. Poison of far-Right leads to serious threats Mr Musk, the owner of the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, claimed that the safeguarding minister should be jailed and called her a rape genocide apologist. He made the comments after Ms Phillips rejected a request for the Government to lead a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham. She instead instructed Oldham council in October to launch its own local inquiry into historic child sexual abuse in the town, similar to inquiries set up in Rochdale and Telford. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a letter to Oldham council, Ms Phillips said she recognised the strength of feeling for a Home Office-led inquiry into grooming gangs but said that the Government would not intervene. Mr Musk claimed that she deserves to be in prison for her response. Speaking earlier on Monday, Sir Keir Starmer said: When the poison of the far-Right leads to serious threats to Jess Phillips and others, that in my book [means] a line has been crossed. The Prime Minister said in a speech on Monday morning that those calling for a national inquiry on grooming gangs were seeking to jump on a bandwagon of the far-Right. Sir Keir Starmer previously said a line has been crossed when referencing poison of the far-Right - Leon Neal/PA He suggested Mr Musk was desperate for attention and said: Those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible, they are not interested in victims, they are interested in themselves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, previously called Musks comments ill judged and said Phillips had done more than most people ever do to fight sexual abuse. He added: It is a disgraceful smear of a great woman who has spent her life supporting victims of the kind of violence that Elon Musk and others say that theyre against. Its all very easy to sit there and fire off something in haste and click send when people like Keir Starmer and Jess Phillips have done the hard yards of actually locking up wife beaters, rapists and paedophiles. The Home Office declined to comment. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) A man is dead after being assaulted in downtown Bakersfield early Sunday morning, according to the Bakersfield Police Department. The man is identified as Rolando Anaya, 46, of Bakersfield. Officials say Anaya was assaulted in the area of 19th and K streets around 1:30 a.m. Medical aid was administered but Anaya was pronounced dead at the scene. Police say there is no suspect information for public release. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Bakersfield Police Department at 661-327-7111. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. WILLIAMSTON, S.C. (WSPA) With the help of volunteers and donations from across the country, one Upstate man has helped donate hundreds of sheds to Hurricane Helene victims in western North Carolina. Sam Byler lives in Williamston, South Carolina. Byler said when he took a trip up to western North Carolina after the storm, those images weighed heavy on his mind. When people say that videos and pictures do not do it justice, thats the truth, Byler said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Byler has worked in the shed industry for many years. He said after his trip to North Carolina, he wanted to do something to help. I have never seen anything like this, Byler added. We are 90 days past and there is still a lot of work that needs to be done. Byler took to Facebook, expressing that he wanted to donate 100 sheds to Helene victims. I made a post that said I want to do this. This is my way to do this. To raise awareness for suicide and depression and the shed industry just took it over. I think within 24 hours we had 50 sheds donated, Byler recalled. It literally started without a plan which my friends will tell you, thats the way most of my life goes. Months later, Byler has been able to give away more than 200 sheds and counting. The sheds have been donated to Byler, then Byler and volunteers help deliver to those in need. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donated by manufacturers, dealers, haulers all over the U.S. Maine, Michigan, to Texas and every state in between. Byler added. We put house doors in instead of shed doors, we put good windows in, instead of shed windows, and insulate them and put a nice floor in them, panel the walls. Sheds Byler has helped deliver to WNC As the nights grow increasingly colder, Byler said the work his is doing stays in the forefront of his mind. I have two families right now that, they are living in cars and have kids. I cant sleep at night I wake up at 2 oclock at night and Im like I got to get them in a shed. So, then I get those two in a shed and get two more the next day, then there is 2 more, Byler added. If by what I do inspires a 100 other people to go do something, go do it. Thats the main thing I want to get out, we can all help. Byler said he is always looking for volunteers. You can volunteer, donate or request help by reaching out to him on his Facebook page. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 man is facing hundreds of criminal charges on accusations he sexually abused a child. According to a Pennsylvania State Police report, a woman in her 20s came to the Butler Barracks in December to report incidents of sexual abuse that spanned from the ages of 8 to 17. PSP says the woman described over 200 separate instances of sexual abuse committed against her by a man, whos identified as Harold Stahlman, 43. The incidents happened within a home in Slippery Rock. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After investigating, PSP filed 203 counts each of the following charges against Stahlman: indecent assault, unlawful contact with a minor and corruption of minors. Hes also charged with one count of invasion of privacy. Troopers say Stahlman was arrested on Jan. 2 at his home in Greenville, TN. Hes currently being held in a Tennessee jail awaiting extradition to Pennsylvania. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW VAN NUYS, Calif. (KTLA) An investigation is underway after a man was found fatally shot in the street in Van Nuys early Sunday morning, officials announced. Officers with the Los Angeles Police Department responded to the 16100 block of Leadwell Street, at Woodley Avenue, on reports of an assault with a deadly weapon at around 5:30 a.m. At the scene, officials said police found the victim, described only as a male, age unknown, suffering from a single gunshot wound. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Medical personnel with the Los Angeles Fire Department arrived at the scene and rushed the victim to the hospital where, despite life-saving efforts, he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased. L.A. police on the scene of a deadly shooting in Van Nuys on Jan. 5, 2025. (Citizen) L.A. police on the scene of a deadly shooting in Van Nuys on Jan. 5, 2025. (Citizen) L.A. police on the scene of a deadly shooting in Van Nuys on Jan. 5, 2025. (Citizen) L.A. police on the scene of a deadly shooting in Van Nuys on Jan. 5, 2025. (Citizen) L.A. police on the scene of a deadly shooting in Van Nuys on Jan. 5, 2025. (Citizen) L.A. police on the scene of a deadly shooting in Van Nuys on Jan. 5, 2025. (Citizen) In video of the crime scene posted to the Citizen App, a portion of Leadwell Street could be seen cordoned off with yellow police tape while detectives presumably worked to gather evidence. Parked at the curb was at least one recreational vehicle with a dartboard attached to the front bumper that had its upper half covered by a heavily weathered tarp. On the sidewalk next to the RV, a ladder, a table and extension cords were strewn along the path. Its unclear if the area was a homeless encampment or if the victim was possibly living in the RV. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said that, so far, no arrests have been made in the fatal shooting, nor was any description of possible suspect or suspects released. The identity of the deceased male is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. Anyone with information about this investigation is asked to contact LAPDs Operation Valley Bureau at 818-374-9550. 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 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. ROCKBRIDGE COUNTY, Va. (WFXR) The Rockbridge County Sheriffs Office reports a man has died by gunshot after a vehicle chase in Rockbridge County on January 5. Around 10:30 pm on Sunday, deputies pulled over a vehicle near Timber Ridge. During the stop, a male driver, later identified as 43-year-old Shane Tyson Lawhorn of Rockbridge County, was asked to exit his vehicle but allegedly refused. He then allegedly fled the scene. South Boston PD says man wanted in grand larceny investigation is armed & dangerous Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A brief vehicle chase occurred and then ended when Lawhorns vehicle crashed. When deputies approached the vehicle, Lawhorn was found slumped over with a gunshot wound to the chest. Emergency medical services were called, and life-saving measures were immediately performed; however, Lawhorn was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Rockbridge County Sheriffs Office has requested the Virginia State Police to investigate the incident. WFXR News will update you with more information as it becomes available. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv. A New Hampshire man is being held without bail after a local police officer was shot with his own service weapon during a struggle with the suspect over the weekend. Jared Masseur, 40, of Nashua, faced Judge Mark Derby via teleconference from Hillsborough County House of Corrections during a hearing in Merrimack District Court on Monday. Masseur is charged with resisting arrest or detention, felon in possession of a dangerous weapon, attempting to take a firearm from a law enforcement officer, and second-degree assault. Derby ordered Masseur held without bail pending a probable cause hearing on Jan. 16. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bedford Police Officer David Benway-Fongemie, 24, was shot during a struggle with Masseur early Saturday, authorities said. Police officer hospitalized after being shot by own gun during struggle with suspect in Bedford, NH Benway-Fongemie was shot and injured while officers were responding to a call around 12:53 a.m. Saturday about a suspicious person at Country Inn & Suites at 250 South River Road. When officers arrived, Masseur began to run away from them. Officers tried to take Masseur into custody, but he resisted and began to fight the officers. During a struggle with two officers, Masseur reached for Benway-Fongemies holster and tried to take his service firearm. The officers gun fired off during the struggle and shot Benway-Fongemie in the leg. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Benway-Fongemie, who has worked for the department since September, was taken by ambulance to a local hospital. He was later released and continues to recover at home. The shooting is the latest case of an officer on duty being shot after a suspect grabs their service weapon. In July, a Massachusetts man, Emmanuel Lopes, was sentenced to life in prison for fatally shooting Weymouth Police Department Sgt. Michael Chesna, 42, and innocent bystander Vera Adams, 77, with Chesnas service weapon in July 2018. A jury convicted Lopes of the two murders in February. While fleeing the scene of a minor car crash on July 15, 2018, Lopes threw a large rock at Chesna, the responding officer, knocking him to the ground unconscious, then grabbed the police officers gun and fatally shot him multiple times, investigators said at the time. He also fatally shot Adams, a nearby resident who was on her porch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW WEST JORDAN, Utah (ABC4) Officials are on the lookout for a driver suspected to be involved in a hit-and-run over the weekend. According to the West Jordan Police Department, the incident happened near 9000 South Redwood Road just before 8 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. Suspect in death of missing Kearns woman apprehended in Fillmore Officials said a car was making a right turn at the intersection when the driver struck a pedestrian and fled the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pedestrian is said to be in his 50s or 60s, and suffered minor injuries in the incident. The driver has not yet been found. There is no further information at this time. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A 20-year-old was fatally shot in East Price Hill on Saturday, police said. It's the second homicide of the year in Cincinnati and occurred less than two miles from the first homicide of 2025 in the city. Elijah Hicks, 20, was found shot in the 3100 block of West Liberty Street just after 9 p.m., according to Cincinnati police. The Cincinnati Fire Department attempted to treat him, but were unsuccessful, officials said. Two days earlier on Thursday, Dimitri Harvill, 33, was found shot in the 4400 block of Guerley Road in West Price Hill. He was taken to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center where he died, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No arrests have been announced in either of the killings. Police have not said if the incidents are connected. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Man killed in East Price Hill, 2nd shooting death in West Side in 2025 YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) A man who is on parole on a gun charge was arrested on another gun charge Friday after reports said he was in a video with a man who was carrying a gun. William Robinson, 32, is expected to be arraigned on Monday in municipal court on a charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm, a third-degree felony; improper handling of a firearm, a fourth-degree felony; and possession of cocaine, a fifth-degree felony. He is presently in the Mahoning County Jail. Robinson is on probation from Summit County Common Pleas Court for the same charge. Records from the state Department of Corrections show he was sentenced to two years on the charge in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reports said police were called about 11:30 a.m. to the Adult Parole Authority offices after agents learned that Robinson was in a recent video on social media with an unidentified man who was wielding a gun. Someone on probation for being a felon in possession of a firearm can not have a weapon and not be around someone who has a weapon or in the same place as a weapon. Robinson was drug tested and tested positive for cocaine, reports said. Police searched his car and found a loaded 9mm semiautomatic handgun underneath the drivers seat, a magazine of .22-caliber ammunition, a bag of crack cocaine, and a scale that had marijuana residue on it. Robinson can not have guns because of a 2013 sentence in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court for aggravated robbery, a second-degree felony. Court records show he was sentenced to six years in prison on the charge by former Judge Lou DApolito. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A man pleaded guilty Monday morning to sex crimes with a minor. READ MORE: Man in jail after not appearing in court on charges involving sex crimes against a minor Nate Martin will spend 15 to 27 months in prison for having sexual relations with a 15-year-old girl. He was handcuffed and led out of the courtroom after pleading guilty to two counts of indecent liberties with a minor. The teens parents were shot in December 2023 when they drove from Virginia to south Charlotte to confront Martin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Martin was dating the victims older sister at the time and would take advantage of the victim in hotel rooms when they would visit. At some point, the victim told her sister about it who alerted their parents in Virginia. Both the victims mother and father drove to Charlotte to confront Martin at his home on Meadowridge Drive off Carmel Road. During that confrontation, the victims parents were shot. Her mother died. MORE COVERAGE: Nobody was charged in that shooting after the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department found it legally justified. However, that was when police first found out about the sexual assaults and started investigating. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Martin was originally charged with four felonies but as part of the plea deal, two were dropped. The district attorneys office said this was the best way forward because a trial would have been risky since they were lacking forensic evidence. Along with prison time, Martin must register as a sex offender for 30 years. The victims family was in the courtroom Monday but did not testify. Lewis Houston came back from World War II and started a taxi business in Statesville. The office eventually moved across the street to a building which has a plaque in his honor. We wouldnt be here today if it wasnt for him and the vision that he had, said his grandson, Marvin Stanley. The business is still alive and Stanley is still in it, so he decided to go on vacation. Uber makes changes to protect and help drivers, couriers Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stanley told Action 9 investigator Jason Stoogenke he flew United Airlines to Saint Kitts and was supposed to fly back to Orlando, but that the airline changed plans. He flew to South Florida instead. Stanley says the company told him if he wanted to catch an Uber the rest of the way, about a three-hour trip, that United would reimburse him. He was OK with a long car ride. After all, remember, ground transportation is in his blood, Stoogenke said. Stanley says the ride cost $760. He says he got back and gave United the receipt, but that the airline gave him the runaround. I was crushed because they told me that they were going to reimburse me, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stoogenke emailed United and the company emailed him back about a week later. It didnt explain what the issue was but said it apologized to Stanley and a check was on its way, which it was. Im very grateful from the bottom of my heart, Stanley told Stoogenke. I am serious. I appreciate you. Im glad that you were able to come and assist me. If your flight plans change and you end up having to take ground transportation: Do what Stanley did: Keep good records, including emails and receipts. If the airline wont budge, you can always file a complaint with the FAA. If youre considering travel insurance for this kind of problem, read the fine print. Ensure it covers cases such as this. Here are your rights in other airline situations: If your flight is canceled or significantly changed, youre entitled to a cash refund. Its automatic, so you shouldnt have to request it. Airlines must issue refunds within seven business days if you paid with a credit card and 20 calendar days for other forms of payment. That includes all the fees that went with it, such as baggage. Significantly changed means: A three-hour delay for domestic flights or a six-hour delay for international ones A different arrival or departure airport Added connecting flights A class of service downgraded Youre not entitled to a refund for any expenses you may have incurred because of the flight issues, including rental cars, hotels, extra meals, etc. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the most part, youre not entitled to a refund because of bad service. Obviously, airlines can still reimburse you for those -- or at least give you a credit or voucher -- if they want. However, they dont have to, Stoogenke said. Stoogenke said that this may be obvious but remember: If the flight isnt canceled or significantly changed, you can still get a refund if you have a refundable ticket and not if you have a nonrefundable one. And travel insurance doesnt usually cover cold feet or a change of heart. VIDEO: Uber, Lyft prices to increase for rides that start in North Carolina A man has been sentenced to six-and-a-half year in prison for the hit-and-run death of a classic car owner in Minneapolis in 2023. Presley Aaron Peltier, 28, was sentenced in Hennepin County Court on Monday after he was convicted of criminal vehicular homicide in the death of Andrew Hyde on July 18, 2023, and the injury of an officer whom he dragged during an attempted arrest on Aug. 26, 2023. Hyde, 55, was driving his beloved 1964 Chevy Impala when he was struck by a stolen Hyundai SUV at Washington and North 22nd Avenues. Police believe Peltier was behind the wheel of the Hyundai, which fled the scene. Minneapolis Police Department A month-and-a-half later, a Minneapolis police officer responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle with a driver slumped over, who police allegedly later learned was Peltier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the officer informed Peltier he was under arrest, Peltier began to accelerating away with the officer partially trapped in the driver's side door. He then drove the vehicle into a support pillar of a nearby structure, with the officer able to then roll away. In a statement, Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty said: "Andrew Hyde was enjoying driving his prized 1964 Chevrolet Impala convertible on a sunny July day when he was killed by Mr. Peltier in another tragic instance of reckless driving. Our thoughts are with his family. "In both of these incidents, Mr. Peltier showed blatant disregard for the safety of those around him and he is being held accountable. Peltier has been given 496 days of credit for time served. Related: Minneapolis woman, infant killed in Kansas crash, 10 others injured LONDON, Ky. (FOX 56) One person is in the hospital and another is under arrest after a Sunday shooting in Laurel County. According to the sheriffs office, the shooting happened just after 1 p.m. near Wren Road outside of London. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: When investigators arrived, they said they found a 34-year-old man who had been shot in the chest and face with a shotgun. He was taken to the hospital with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies said James Smith, 56, was arrested in connection with the shooting. He has been charged with first-degree assault. Investigators claim Smith and the man were arguing, which led to the shooting. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. MEMPHIS, Tenn. A man was shot Sunday at a Churchs Chicken location on Poplar Avenue in the Medical District. Memphis police say two armed men, one inside the restaurant and one outside, had a verbal altercation around 8 p.m. One of the men shot the other, and there was an exchange of gunfire. The victim was shot in the abdomen. He was taken to a hospital in critical condition. The MPD released photos of the alleged suspect in a shooting outside a Medical District Churchs Texas Chicken (Photo courtesy of the MPD) The MPD released photos of the alleged suspect in a shooting outside a Medical District Churchs Texas Chicken (Photo courtesy of the MPD) The MPD released photos of the alleged suspect in a shooting outside a Medical District Churchs Texas Chicken (Photo courtesy of the MPD) Police are looking for the alleged gunman, who they say got away in a blue Nissan sedan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you have any information that could help police, call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A 21-year-old metalcore fan has been brutally stabbed multiple times during a gig in the US city of San Antonio, Texas. The incident took place on December 27th at the citys Paper Tiger venue, where the band Life Cycles were headlining a free show, supported by Fear of Loss, Voracious Contempt, Crossways 3000, and Public Threat. Watch: SAPD News Report According to investigators, the victim and the attacker got into a fight inside the venue, at which point the latter pulled out a knife and began stabbing the former. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police responded to the scene shortly after 10pm and found the victim outside the venue with serious injuries. He was rushed to the hospital and is currently in stable condition and thankfully expected to recover from his wounds. 36-year-old punter John Guerrero has been arrested in relation to the incident, on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Guerrero was identified by other gig-goers and taken into custody at the venue. Officers allegedly also found a knife in his possession at the time of his arrest. He was booked into the Bexar County Adult Detention Center on December 28th and released on a US $100,000 bond. Guerrero is scheduled for a court hearing on March 3rd. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Life Cycles have not commented publicly on the incident, nor has Paper Tiger Incidentally, Australian rock icons Amyl & The Sniffers will be playing a sold-out show at the same venue this April. You can watch local news coverage of the attack up above. Further Reading Death Metal Drummer Killed By Drunk Driver In Horror NYE Crash Lil Durk Arrested On Murder-for-Hire Charges Men Arrested Over Alleged Plot To Murder Rap Group ONEFOUR The post Man Stabbed Multiple Times At US Metalcore Show appeared first on Music Feeds. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) A man accused of stabbing a family member pleaded guilty to an amended charge Monday in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court. Read next: Farrell man accused of kidnapping, strangling woman Kevin Kramer, 46, pleaded guilty to a charge of aggravated assault, a fourth-degree felony, for a Jan. 9 stabbing at a home in the 500 block of Ridge Avenue. He had originally been charged with felonious assault, a second-degree felony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In exchange for his plea, Kramer will now have his case heard in the countys mental health court. If he agrees to the terms and conditions set on him by the court, the charge will be dropped when his treatment is completed. Reports said police were called about 8:40 p.m. Jan. 9 to a home in the 500 block of Ridge Avenue for a report of a stabbing, and when they arrived, a small child came out, latched on to an officers leg and said her father had been stabbed by her uncle. Police went inside and found a man holding a knife in the kitchen standing over Kramer, who was on the floor. The man was ordered at gunpoint to drop the knife and get on the ground, which he did. Kramer was covered in blood, reports said. Reports said the other man told police he was sitting on a chair when Kramer came up from behind and sliced his throat before he managed to beat Kramer severely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For now, Kramer will remain in the Mahoning County jail as his case makes its way through the mental health court. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) A man was taken to the hospital for possible smoke inhalation following a fire at a multi-unit home in Hartford, fire officials said. According to fire officials, on Sunday evening, a fire broke out on the first floor of a multi-unit home in the area of Albany Avenue. The fire was contained in the area and officials quickly located and extinguished the fire, fire officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Politics Connecticut activists support President Bidens law to increase Social Security payments A man was removed from the fire. He was conscious and alert, fire officials said. He was taken care of at the scene for possible smoke inhalation and then taken to an area hospital, fire officials said. No additional injuries were reported. No relocations were necessary, fire officials said. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. The Manhattan district attorneys office said Monday it opposes any suspension of President-elect Trumps Jan. 10 sentencing on his New York criminal conviction ahead of his return to the White House. Prosecutor Matthew Colangelo argued in a new court filing that Trumps intention to appeal decisions by Judge Juan Merchan allowing the conviction to stand does not mean the case must be paused, especially as the sentencing is the only remaining proceeding. There is no risk here of an extended proceeding that impairs the discharge of defendants official duties duties he does not possess before January 20, 2025 in any event, Colangelo wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Merchan ruled last week that Trumps sentencing could move forward this Friday despite his upcoming inauguration, rejecting the incoming presidents arguments that his election victory should mark an end to the case. The judge previously signaled he intends to grant Trump an unconditional discharge, which would cement his conviction without any punishment. He said he is not inclined to sentence the president-elect to any prison time, given concerns about his immunity from criminal prosecution upon taking the oath of office. Colangelo pointed to Trumps likely unconditional discharge as reason that he would suffer no prejudice from wrapping up the case Friday. In fact, an entry of judgment which follows a sentence would allow Trump to formally seek the appeal he has repeatedly vowed to pursue, the prosecutor said. And, the current schedule is entirely a function of defendants repeated requests to adjourn a sentencing date that was originally set for July 11, 2024; he should not now be heard to complain of harm from delays he caused, Colangelo said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps attorneys argued that their intent to appeal Merchans recent decisions should automatically pause all proceedings in the case. The judge ruled that Trumps November victory at the polls does not necessitate throwing out his conviction, and the guilty verdict withstands the Supreme Courts ruling on presidential immunity. The Court should vacate the sentencing hearing scheduled for January 10, 2025, and suspend all further deadlines in the case until President Trumps immunity appeals are fully and finally resolved, which should result in a dismissal of this case, which should have never been brought in the first place, they wrote in a filing made public Monday morning. A New York jury found Trump guilty on 34 counts of falsifying business records in connection with a hush money payment made to porn actor Stormy Daniels ahead of the 2016 presidential election so she would keep an alleged affair secret. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its the only one of Trumps criminal cases to have reached trial. Since his election victory, his two federal cases have been withdrawn and his Georgia charges remain in limbo after Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis (D) was disqualified from the case. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 (PIX11) A snowstorm is headed to New York City and the tri-state area on Monday morning. Snow was expected to fall in central and southern New Jersey around 7 a.m. before making its way to the Big Apple by 10 a.m., according to PIX11 meteorologists. NYC forecast and PIX11s Weather Center The snow should stop falling in the afternoon, although some areas of New Jersey may continue to see flakes later on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Central and southern New Jersey could get several inches of snow, but New York City, the Hudson Valley and Long Island will see less than an inch to no accumulation at all, PIX11 meteorologists said. A winter weather alert was issued in New York City for Mondays snowfall. The Department of Sanitation has pretreated the roads with liquid brine, but NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol warned drivers of a potentially messy evening commute. After the snow moves out of the tri-state area, freezing temperatures and blustery winds are expected for the rest of the week. Some gusts could reach between 30-40 mph. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Baker County, Oregon, is one of many rural places in states that protect abortion rights where access to prenatal and birthing care is considered by locals to be a more urgent medical need than expanded access to abortion. But the new abortion bans affect these places, too. With abortion now illegal in nearby Idaho, access to pregnancy care in cases in which termination may be medically necessary has also been diminished for residents of Baker County. (Lillian Mongeau Hughes for KFF Health News) This story was first published by KFF Health News on Jan. 2, 2025. BAKER CITY, Ore. In what has become a routine event in rural America, a hospital maternity ward closed in 2023 in this small Oregon town about an hour from the Idaho border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For Shyanne McCoy, 23, that meant the closest hospital with an obstetrician on staff when she was pregnant was a 45-mile drive away over a mountain pass. When McCoy developed symptoms of preeclampsia last January, she felt she had the best chance of getting the care she needed at a larger hospital in Boise, two hours away. She spent the final week of her pregnancy there, too far from home to risk leaving, before giving birth to her daughter. Six months later, she said it seems clear to her that the health care needs of rural young women like her are largely ignored. For McCoy and others, figuring out how to obtain adequate care to safely have a baby in Baker City has quickly eclipsed concerns about another medical service lacking in the area: abortion. But in Oregon and elsewhere in the country, progressive lawmakers attempts to expand abortion access sometimes clash with rural constituencies. In one Oregon example, no new abortion options means no new state-funded maternity care, either Oregon is considered one of the most protective states in the country when it comes to abortion. There are no legal limits on when someone can receive an abortion in the state, and the service is covered by its Medicaid system. Still, efforts to expand access in the rural, largely conservative areas that cover most of the state have encountered resistance and incredulity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a divide that has played out in elections in such states as Nevada, where voters passed a ballot measure in November that seeks to codify abortion protections in the state constitution. Residents in several rural counties opposed the measure. In Oregon, during the months just before the Baker City closure was announced, Democratic state lawmakers were focused on a proposed pilot program that would launch two mobile reproductive health care clinics in rural areas. The bill specified that the van-based clinics would include abortion services. State Rep. Christine Goodwin, a Republican from a southwestern Oregon district, called the proposal the latest example of urban legislators telling rural leaders what their communities need. The mobile health clinic pilot was eventually removed from the bill that was under discussion. That means no new abortion options in Oregons Baker County and no new state-funded maternity care either. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think if you expanded rural access in this community to abortions before you extended access to maternal health care, you would have an uprising on your hands, said Paige Witham, 27, a member of the Baker County health care steering committee and the mother of two children, including an infant born in October. Paige Witham, seen in Baker City, Oregon, in July, is the mom to two young children and a member of the Baker County health care steering committee. She says that to expand abortion care with the approval of enough people in her conservative town, the state would first have to offer better pregnancy care. (Lillian Mongeau Hughes for KFF Health News) A study published in JAMA in early December that examined nearly 5,000 acute care hospitals found that by 2022, 52% of rural hospitals lacked obstetrics care after more than a decade of unit closures. The health implications of those closures for young women, the population most likely to need pregnancy care, and their babies can be significant. Research has shown that added distance between a patient and obstetric care increases the likelihood the baby will be admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit, or NICU. Witham said that while she does not support abortion, she believes the government should not legislate it away completely. She said that unless the government provides far more support for young families, like free child care and better mental health care, abortion should remain legal. Conversations with a liberal school board member, a moderate owner of a timber company, members of Baker Citys Republican Party chapter, a local doula, several pregnant women, and the director of the Baker County Health Department many of whom were not rigidly opposed to abortion all turned up the same answer: No mobile clinics offering abortions here, please. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kelle Osborn, a nurse supervisor for the Baker County Health Department, loved the idea of a mobile clinic that would provide education and birth control services to people in outlying areas. She was less thrilled about including abortion services in a clinic on wheels. Its not something that should just be handed out from a mobile van, she said of abortion services. She said people in her conservative rural county would probably avoid using the clinics for anything if they were understood to provide abortion services. Osborn and Meghan Chancey, the health departments director, said they would rank many health care priorities higher, including the need for a general surgeon, an ICU, and a dialysis clinic. The tiny Baker County health department offers lots of services, including home visits by a nurse for new moms and infants. And while a publicly funded mobile clinic, as proposed by the state, could help reach outlying areas, the director thinks including abortion care would keep people from using the clinic to avoid stigma. (Lillian Mongeau Hughes for KFF Health News) Limits to reproductive and maternal health care in rural areas Nationally, reproductive health care services of all types tend to be limited for people in rural areas, even within states that protect abortion access. More than two-thirds of people in maternity care deserts all of which are in rural counties must drive more than a half-hour to get obstetric care, according to a 2024 March of Dimes report. For people in the Southern states where lawmakers installed abortion bans, abortion care can be up to 700 miles away, according to a data analysis by Axios. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nathan Defrees grew up in Baker City and has practiced medicine here since 2017. He works for a family medicine clinic. If a patient asks about abortion, he provides information about where and how one can be obtained, but he doesnt offer abortions himself. Theres not a lot of anonymity in small towns for physicians who provide that care, he said. Many of us arent willing to sacrifice the rest of our career for that. He also pointed to the small number of patients requesting the service locally. Just six people living in Baker County had an abortion in 2023, according to data from the Oregon Department of Public Health. Meanwhile, 125 residents had a baby that year. A doctor with obstetric training living in another rural part of the state has chosen to quietly provide early-stage abortions when asked. The doctor, concerned for their familys safety in the small, conservative town where they live, asked not to be identified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The idea that better access to abortion is not needed in rural areas seems naive, the doctor said. People most in need of abortion often dont have access to any medical service not already available in town, the doctor pointed out. The first patient the doctor provided an abortion for at the clinic was a meth user with no resources to travel or to manage an at-home medication abortion. It seemed entirely inappropriate for me to turn her away for care I had the training and the tools to do, the doctor said. Defrees said it has been easier for Baker County residents to get an abortion since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. A new Planned Parenthood clinic in Ontario, Oregon, 70 miles away in neighboring Malheur County, was built primarily to provide services to people from the Boise metro area, but it also created an option for many living in rural eastern Oregon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Idaho is one of the 16 states with near-total bans on abortion. Like many states with bans, Idaho has struggled to maintain its already small fleet of fetal medicine doctors. The loss of regional expertise touches Baker City, too, Defrees said. For example, he said, the treatment plan for women who have a desired pregnancy but need a termination for medical reasons is now far less clear. It used to be those folks could go to Boise, he said. Now they cant. That does put us in a bind. Portland is the next closest option for that type of care, and that means a 300-mile drive along a set of highways that can be treacherous in winter. Its a lot scarier to be pregnant now in Baker City than it ever has been, Defrees said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Subscribe to KFF Health News free Morning Briefing. This article first appeared on KFF Health News and is republished here under a Creative Commons license. Advertisement Advertisement House Republicans averted one crisis last week, but another storm is brewing. On Friday, House Speaker Mike Johnson managed to overcome the GOPs super-slim majorityand threats from internal defectorsto keep his gavel, thanks to some heavy politicking from President-elect Donald Trump. Failure to quickly elect a speaker could have delayed Mondays joint session of Congress to certify the presidential election results. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, a snowstorm is barreling down on Washington, D.C., and the National Weather Service predicts six to 12 inches of snow could accumulate between Sunday night and Tuesday morning. Members of Congress had been told not to leave town over the weekend, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) wrote in a post on the social media platform X, but many went anyway. Jan. 6 we certify President Trumps election! she added. Ill be there no matter how much it snows and so should every single Republican!! Jan 6th we certify President Trumps election! Ill be here no matter how much it snows and so should every single Republican!! https://t.co/b7sEcrz8hQ Marjorie Taylor Greene (@mtgreenee) January 5, 2025 Greene is a noted proponent of weather-related conspiracy theories. The MAGA diehard made headlines in early October for suggesting Hurricane Helene, which killed more than 230 people across six states, was an inside job aimed at derailing the presidential election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yes they can control the weather, she wrote on the social media platform X at the time. Its ridiculous for anyone to lie and say it cant be done. It wasnt clear who they were in October, or whether they were still pulling the atmospheric strings over the weekend. But in any case, Greene wont let anyone or anything get the best of her. Im here and will walk to the Capitol if have to, she wrote. MARTINSVILLE, Va. (WFXR) The City of Martinsvilles Police Department was given an $80,000 grant from Operation Ceasefire and the Attorney Generals Office, the money went to install gunshot detectors made by Flock Safety. About two-thirds of Martinsville is covered by these gunshot detectors. The detectors are programmed to record the frequency of a gunshot, and send that information to officers. Its almost instantaneous. Within 60 seconds. These officers will receive a text message on their cell phone with mapping data of where this gunshot originated, said Chad Rhoads, the Deputy Chief of Police for Martinsvilee, So everybody whos out working the streets can go directly to the area where that gunshot originated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The department says these detectors do not record audio, just the frequency of a gunshot. 140 gunshot detectors installed in Martinsville to solve gun-related crimes WFXR News is told the detectors also work alongside the citys license plate readers to collect information from vehicles in the area of the gunshot. The more of them we have, the more densely populated those detectors are, the more accurate the signal we can get, said Deputy Chief Rhoads, As it stands now with the number of detectors weve got, we can zero in on the location of the gunshot to within just a few meters, 30 feet or so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The department says they hope these detectors will help to improve public safety. Deputy Chief Rhoads says the department would get five to ten shots fired calls a week. We want to lower the incidents of gun-related crime. And how we do that is by stepping up our response time to that, said Deputy Chief Rhoads, In days past, it may have been several minutes before we responded to the proper area. And now, you know, it could be within seconds that we can respond there. The detectors are going through troubleshooting right now to make sure they can distinguish between a gunshot and other loud noises, such as cars backfiring or slamming doors. The department hopes the detectors will be fully up and running by the end of January. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv. BALTIMORE Carroll lawmakers plan to support bills that would support alternative energy solutions and restrict government-granted eminent domain powers, amid the pending approval of the Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project, a 70-mile power line that would run through Carroll, Frederick and Baltimore counties. The Public Service Enterprise Group, the company contracted to construct the MPRP, applied Tuesday for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Maryland Public Service Commission. PJM, the organization responsible for operating and planning Marylands electric grid, has contracted with PSEG to build the $424 million project, projected to be operational by June 1, 2027. PJM determined through its federally regulated regional transmission expansion planning process that the MPRP is critically needed to prevent severe, extensive, and widespread reliability violations on the existing 500 kV transmission system that serves Maryland and its surrounding states, according to the applications cover letter. If unaddressed, these violations could compromise overall system reliability in the PJM region, including for Maryland customers, and could lead to widespread and extreme conditions in 2027, such as system collapse and blackouts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The project has been controversial since it was announced. Carroll County lawmakers say it threatens the environment; would increase local energy costs; would result in a loss of farmland and revenue for farmers; would be disruptive; and would have other consequences. One measure proposed by Sen. Chris West would allow electric companies to own and operate their own power-generating facilities. West said building additional power generation capacity in the right places will negate the need to construct additional power transmission lines through rural Maryland. The people of Maryland arent going to benefit one iota from the electricity thats going to flow through this line, West said, if it ends up being built. Another of Wests proposed bills would change the way eminent domain works in Maryland, banning quick-take authority for any land under a preservation or conservation easement, requiring compensation to reflect land value diminution for land-owners within 150 feet of any land acquired through eminent domain to install a power line, paying for attorney and court-related expenses for any land owner that wins a case challenging their valuation, according to West. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ill be co-sponsoring bipartisan bills to restrict usage of eminent domain to take private property for corporate profits, Sen. Justin Ready said, and legislation to slow this process down so we can get a full, impartial analysis of Marylands energy production and grid needs before any action takes place on MPRP. West proposed another measure that would have the Maryland Public Service Commission require a grid optimization study to be conducted, evaluating the potential for increasing the capacity and efficiency of the states existing transmission and distribution infrastructure before a project can be approved, according to West. The study would deduce the potential for increasing capacity by using advanced technologies, optimizing existing transmission lines, reducing load on the grid, and improving energy efficiency to reduce demand. The public and the Office of Peoples Counsel would have the opportunity to comment on the study before the commission determines if the applicant is compliant with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commissions terms. Another of Wests proposed bills would call on the Maryland Public Service Commission and the Maryland Energy Administration to, establish a plan to gradually phase out Marylands natural gas energy generation facilities, only after Maryland can meet half of its energy needs using renewable sources like wind, solar, hydroelectric, geothermal and nuclear power, according to West. Our states energy crisis will be the next most important issue, Del. Chris Tomlinson said. Over the course of many years, Maryland lawmakers have passed policies that make it nearly impossible to create or produce reliable sources of energy. Everything from closing coal power plants to limiting natural gas production to irresponsible climate goals that require drastic reduction in production. At the same time, new energy sources such as wind and solar are unable to produce equal amounts of energy. As a result, our state is forced to import energy from states that still generate energy the old-fashioned way [coal, natural gas, etc.]. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One bill, also proposed by West, would direct the Maryland Public Service Commission to refrain from approving any new power line projects until May 1, 2026. In that time, a 21-member task force would be assembled to ensure reliable energy access to Marylanders while planning to reduce the amount of energy imported from out-of-state. The proposed task force composed of a representative from the House of Delegates, one member of the state Senate, the secretary of the Environment, the secretary of Agriculture, the Maryland Energy Administration, the Peoples Counsel, the Public Service Commission, PJM, Baltimore Gas & Electric, Constellation Energy Corporation, Potomac Electric Power, Potomac Edison, Delmarva Power & Light, Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative, Marylands independent electricity generating companies, the Maryland Farm Bureau, environmental nonprofit organizations, Maryland ratepayers, and one energy expert appointed by the governor would report to the governor by Dec. 31, 2025. Among the options that shall be considered by the Task Force shall be the expansion of the states nuclear energy generation capability, the expansion of the states renewable energy resources, the prioritization of energy storage facilities and the upgrading and enhancement of the states existing electricity transmission system, according to West. The Data Center Energy Independence Act is another of Wests proposed bills that would require any data center constructed in Maryland that uses more than 20 megawatts of electrical power per year to build and operate a power-generation facility capable of meeting the entirety of the data centers energy needs, according to West. Our energy demand has increased due to AI technology/data centers, Tomlinson said, and the electrification of everything from cars to buildings to leaf blowers. As a result, our state is facing an energy crisis of epic proportions. And the direct result of these terrible politics is the Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project that looks to tear Baltimore, Carroll, and Frederick counties in half. The House Republican Caucus, including me personally, will be introducing several bills that look to address this specific transmission line and the overall problem our state faces. MARYLAND (DC News Now) Several inches of snow have already fallen across the DMV, and Maryland State Police said it has received more than 700 calls for service since early Monday morning. On Sunday, Maryland Governor Wes Moore declared a state of emergency and closed all state government offices on Jan. 6 due to the winter storm. (Courtesy of Maryland State Police via X/@MDSP) Snowplow Tracker: Find out where plows are in Virginia, Maryland The storm is forecasted to bring more than 5 inches of snow across the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State police said that since 1 a.m. on Jan. 6, it has received over 700 calls for service. In a post on X, MSP said it has responded to nearly 750 calls for service, including over 200 reported crashes and 230 unattended vehicles. According to MSP, snow emergency plans are in effect throughout the state and officials encourage the public to stay home and avoid traveling. Officials said if you must travel, let someone know your route and destination before you go and be aware of evacuation routes. To check the status of road conditions, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Esther Yoo, Professor at the William S. Richardson School of Law, joins producer/host Coralie Chun Matayoshi to discuss what happens to the children of immigrants including those illegally brought to the United States as children, birthright children born in the United States to illegal immigrants, and will families be split apart in the process? Q. The Trump administration has pledged to carry out a mass deportation of immigrants on Day 1. It sounds like the Trump administration will try to use any and all means to execute its mass deportation plan. Who will they go after first? From the statements of future Trump administration officials like Stephen Miller and Tom Homan, it sounds like ICE will prioritize noncitizens who are being held in jails and prisons first. These removable noncitizens are generally the easiest for ICE to find because of programs like Secure Communities. ICE, however, has always prioritized this group for enforcement, no matter which administration. The Biden administration prioritized filing deportation cases against those who were recent border crossers or who presented a national security threat or had a serious criminal conviction. ICE was told not to file cases or consider dismissing cases against those noncitizens who did not fall into these categories (exercising their prosecutorial discretion). For example, if a lawful permanent resident was placed in removal proceedings because of a petty misdemeanor drug possession conviction, ICE under Biden would have likely dismissed the removal case. The new administration will likely change that practice and tell ICE attorneys to prosecute all cases, no matter how minor the offense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The next easiest group for ICE to remove are noncitizens with existing orders of removal. When a noncitizen already has an order of removal and is found within the country, ICE can simply reinstate their removal and physically deport them without having the noncitizen go in front of an immigration judge and have a chance to argue their case in a hearing. People are perhaps the most concerned with undocumented immigrants who have lived here for a long time, have family and community ties, and have no or a very minor criminal record. This group includes recipients of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), undocumented immigrants who were brought to the United States as young children. In a recent interview, President-elect Trump said he is planning to protect DACA recipients, but during his first term, he tried to end DACA and was stopped by the Supreme Court, which said his administration didnt follow the proper procedures to end it. So, its unclear whether he is actually planning to protect them. Many of the longtime undocumented also have U.S. citizen children and live in mixed-status families. Hawaii has over 50,000 undocumented people, many of whom have U.S. citizen family members. Deporting this group would be the most disruptive and the most destructive of our communities. Here, Miller and Homan have talked about re-starting workplace raids, a practice that generally did not happen under Biden. President-elect Trump has also indicated that he plans to end twilight statuses (statuses that give the holder permission to stay here and work but doesnt provide a pathway to a green card or citizenship), like parole and Temporary Protected Status. Temporary Protected Status is a form of humanitarian relief for nationals of certain designated countries, such as Afghanistan, El Salvador, Haiti, and Ukraine. If these groups dont have alternate pathways to lawful status, they would be at risk of deportation to countries where they could experience persecution and conflict. Q. The last time President-elect Trump was in office, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) border czar Tom Homan executed a family separation policy that detached over 5,500 children from their parents. As of April 2024, over 1,400 minors have still not been reunited with their parents. Do unaccompanied minors have any rights when crossing the border? Children in immigration custody have certain protections. If a child is unaccompanied, meaning they came to the United States without a parent, ICE hands them over to the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) within the Department of Health and Human Services. ORR is supposed to find their closest relative and send the child to that person, who is called their sponsor. Some of the children end up with cases filed in Immigration Court, and some do not. The rules governing the release of, and conditions of detention for, migrant children largely come from a settlement agreement called the Flores Agreement. This litigation began in 1985, when a Hollywood actor found out through his maid that the Immigration and Nationality Service (INS, the ICE of that time) was detaining young migrant girls in a deserted motel in Los Angeles. INS was detaining them with unrelated adults and strip searching them. The actor alerted a couple of constitutional lawyers, who sued the government. The case wound its way through the courts and finally settled in 1997 during the Clinton administration. The settlement agreement outlined how long minors could be kept in immigration custody, who they should be released to, and what the conditions of their detention should be, i.e. safe and sanitary. The settlement agreement was also a consent decree, so that the court kept some involvement in the case. Q. What about children who come with their mothers or other relative are they separated while their asylum case is pending? For many years, the Flores case was relatively quiet, until 2014, when the plaintiffs came back to ask the court to order the government to release children who were in immigration custody at the border. At this time, the Obama administration had a policy of detaining children who came accompanied by their mothers while their asylum cases were pending. This meant that a child could be held in detention for years since asylum cases can take a long time to resolve, particularly if there are appeals. By this time, the original judge on the case had passed away, so by lottery the case was reassigned to Judge Dolly Gee of the U.S District Court of the Central District of California. I was her law clerk at the time, and she assigned me to work on the motions for this case. Judge Gee held that the rules in the agreement applied to all minors, both unaccompanied and accompanied. She also held that the parents should be released with their children, provided they could show they were not a public safety risk. The government appealed her decision to the Ninth Circuit, which agreed that the agreement applied to all minors and required the expeditious release of children from immigration custody, but the Ninth Circuit panel disagreed that it also required the release of the parents. When their ruling came out, the Obama administration complied and, to its credit, released the parents with their children to avoid family separation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, when President-elect Trump was elected the first time and faced the same decision, Trump chose a zero tolerance policy that led to the parents being detained while their kids were released from detention, effectively separating parents and children, including babies. The family separation policy, in the Trump administrations mind, was very intentional, to act as a deterrent to others who might want to come here. One of the architects of the policy, Tom Homan, is slated to become the head of ICE soon. The government lost track of these children. During the Biden administration, immigrant advocacy groups have been searching for the kids and their parents to reunite them, but as you mentioned, as of April 2024, over 1,400 children have still not been reunited with their parents. Q. There are four million mixed-status families including 8.5 million U.S. citizens who lived with undocumented immigrants. Will these mixed-status families be torn apart? About 5.1 million U.S. citizen children live with an undocumented family member. When an undocumented family member is ordered deported, it creates an extremely difficult choice for these mixed-status families: choose either family separation or have the family, including the U.S. citizen members, deported together. About two thirds (66.3%) of undocumented immigrants arrived in the country as adults; a quarter (25.1%) arrived as children between the ages of five and 17; and 8.6%arrived as children younger than five years old. About 58% of undocumented immigrants speak English proficiently. As they have settled into their new communities, they have found jobs to earn a living, raised families, bought homes, and actively participated in their local communities. In 2022, 39% of undocumented immigrant households owned their homes. Mass deportation would uproot the lives of at least 1.6 million homeowners. The effects of mass deportation would likely be most acutely felt in California, Texas, and Florida, states that combined are home to nearly half of the nations undocumented population. Undocumented immigrants comprised 6.4% of the total population in Texas, 5.5% in California, and 5% in Florida. In Hawaii, there is an estimated 50,000 undocumented persons. Many undocumented immigrants share their lives with U.S. citizens. Removing them from the country would pull apart four million mixed-status families. Those families include 8.5 million U.S. citizens who lived with undocumented immigrants, 5.1 million of whom are children. These family members of undocumented immigrants would not only suffer from tremendous emotional stress but also face potential economic hardship due to the loss of major income earners in their families. [Source: https://www.americanimmigrationcouncil.org/research/mass-deportation] Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a recent interview, President-elect Trump discussed the deportation of U.S. citizen children with their undocumented parent as the better option. But, in my experience, this is wrong. It inflicts a lot of harm on U.S. citizens, as many of them dont speak the language of their new countries and dont fit in culturally. They tend to struggle emotionally and educationally. Depending on the laws of their parents home country, they might not even have automatically acquired citizenship in that country from their parents, so our immigration system has forced them to become undocumented in their new countries. Both family separation and deportation of U.S. citizen children are inhumane. Q. What about children that were born in the U.S. to illegal immigrant parents. Dont they automatically become citizens? Birthright citizenship is the citizenship one obtains simply by being born on the soil of the United States. President Trump and Project 2025 have talked about ending birthright citizenship in the United States. The conservative legal movement has long wanted to get rid of it because they believe that undocumented immigrants and temporary visitors take advantage of it to give their children U.S. citizenship, and these children are changing the demographics of the United States from being a majority white country to a more pluralistic one. However, birthright citizenship is guaranteed by the Fourteenth Amendment of the Constitution, so it is difficult to change. The Citizenship Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment states: All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside. The Fourteenth Amendment came about, of course, after the Civil War, and the Citizenship Clause was meant to grant citizenship to the newly freed slaves. The application of the Citizenship Clause to other persons beyond black or white came about because of a Supreme Court case called Wong Kim Ark. Wong Kim Ark was born in the United States to two Chinese national parents. Although his parents had lived in the United States for a long time, Chinese people were not allowed to naturalize. Wong Kim Ark left the U.S. to visit China, and when he came back and tried to re-enter the U.S., he was not allowed to enter. The Chinese Exclusion Acts were in effect at this time, prohibiting further immigration from China. So, Wong Kim Ark sued, arguing that he was a U.S. citizen because the Fourteenth Amendment said all persons born . . . in the United States are citizens. The Supreme Court decided in Wong Kim Arks favor, which was surprising because this was the same Supreme Court that decided in Plessy v. Ferguson to enshrine the racist principle that separate but equal is okay. Some historians think that the reason the Supreme Court decided in Wong Kim Arks favor is that to end birthright citizenship at the time would have dispossessed a lot of white Americans of their citizenship because immigration to the United States at that time was largely from Europe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, conservatives would need to either pass a constitutional amendment or have the Supreme Court reinterpret the Fourteenth Amendment to end birthright citizenship. The former seems impossible. If they did attempt it, it would more likely be through the Supreme Court. There are conservative legal scholars who argue that the jurisdictional clause and subject to the jurisdiction of doesnt apply to the children of the undocumented because they are here unlawfully. However, that interpretation seems too broad. In Wong Kim Ark, the Supreme Court limited the application of this jurisdictional clause to children of diplomats and to children of a foreign invading army. Unlike diplomats and a foreign invading army, the undocumented are not trying to avoid obeying all laws. For example, they still have to pay traffic tickets and even pay taxes. Plus, ending birthright citizenship, even if it wasnt applied retroactively, would cause a logistical mess. There is actually a gap in our laws, which currently recognizes children born in the territory as citizens through the Fourteenth Amendment as well as children born abroad to at least one U.S. citizen parent through the Immigration and Nationality Act. But theres no specific mechanism yet to recognize children born here to a U.S. citizen parent because its never been necessary due to the Fourteenth Amendments guarantee of birthright citizenship. Im trying to imagine a future where for every child born here in the United States, one or both parents need to furnish evidence of their citizenship or immigration status in order for their children to be recognized as citizens and thinking it will be administratively very inconvenient. To learn more about this subject, tune into this video podcast. Disclaimer: this material is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The law varies by jurisdiction and is constantly changing. For legal advice, you should consult a lawyer that can apply the appropriate law to the facts in your case. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. WAILUKU, Hawaii (KHON2) I love surfing, I want to go back surfing, said 61-year-old Kenji Nonaka after surviving a shark attack while surfing in Waiehu. After two months, Kenji finally fulfilled his wishes, returning to the water after a lengthy recovery. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You In early November, Kenji was surfing in the waters off Waiehu Beach Park, also known as Sandpiles, when a shark completely severed his leg just below the knee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Dec. 19, his doctor said he could go swimming today. The next day, thats exactly what he did, heading to Kahului Harbor to catch a small wave. Maui surfer recovering after shark attack, thanks hero for watching over him He added it felt like being a beginner all over again, but with some patience and perseverance, he was able to paddle out. With his wife cheering him on, he caught some waves on his belly and was smiling ear to ear. A few days later, he went out to one of his favorite breaks a few down from where he was attacked. Kenji said he still feels a little scared to get in the water. The ocean is their property, all marine life property. Thats why I respect them. I still love them, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He still wears a shark band on his leg and is walking with crutches, determined to finish a house project. Kenji will be flying to Honolulu next week to get measured for a prosthetic leg and hopes it will get him back into larger surf. Then Ill try and stand up then I dont know. A couple of years later, I want to try again, big wave. Check out more news from around Hawaii Kenji cant thank the community and first responders enough for saving him back in November. Ambulance, firemen, all my friends. Im so happy. Thank you all. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. COURTESY SENTRY INSURANCE Jason Economou, left, Maui United Way president and CEO, and Pete McPartland, Sentrys chair and CEO, share a moment during Sentrys announcement of an additional $1 million donation to Maui United Way for youth mental health support. 1 /2 COURTESY SENTRY INSURANCE Jason Economou, left, Maui United Way president and CEO, and Pete McPartland, Sentrys chair and CEO, share a moment during Sentrys announcement of an additional $1 million donation to Maui United Way for youth mental health support. COURTESY SENTRY INSURANCE The audience applauds during the event, held at Kapalua Plantation Course on Maui. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2 /2 COURTESY SENTRY INSURANCE The audience applauds during the event, held at Kapalua Plantation Course on Maui. COURTESY SENTRY INSURANCE Jason Economou, left, Maui United Way president and CEO, and Pete McPartland, Sentrys chair and CEO, share a moment during Sentrys announcement of an additional $1 million donation to Maui United Way for youth mental health support. COURTESY SENTRY INSURANCE The audience applauds during the event, held at Kapalua Plantation Course on Maui. Sentry Insurance announced Tuesday a $1 million donation to Maui United Way, furthering its commitment to supporting youth mental health services in the wake of the devastating Aug. 8, 2023, Maui wildfires. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The donationrevealed ahead of The Sentry PGA Tour tournament at Kapalua held last week, builds on the Sentry Malama Na Keiki initiative, which provides mental health counseling to youth across Maui. This latest contribution brings Sentrys total commitment to wildfire relief and recovery efforts to over $3 million, including $2 million specifically dedicated to youth mental health. The Sentry Malama na Keiki program, which launched in November 2023 with an initial $1 million donation, has already reached over 5, 000 children and families across the island. The initiative sends teams of trusted mental health counselors into schools, parks and community centers, offering trauma-informed care in environments where young people feel most at ease. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We identified the issue of mental health for kids who were affected by the fire in so many different ways. Almost any child, I believe, in this part of Maui was affected by it rather dramatically, said Pete McPartland, chair and CEO of Sentry. We had wrapped our arms around that issue and formed an initiative called Malama na Keiki. Don 't miss out on what 's happening ! Stay in touch with top news, as it happens, conveniently in your email inbox. It 's FREE ! Email 28141 Sign Up By clicking to sign up, you agree to Star-Advertiser 's and Google 's and. This form is protected by reCAPTCHA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McPartland said that supporting the recovery and healing of the Maui community is a deeply personal mission for the company. He emphasized that Sentrys commitment goes beyond its role as the title sponsor of The Sentry, focusing on assisting the people of the island as they rebuild and ensuring that children and families have the resources they need to move forward with hope and stability. I will tell you, it will not end here. This will not end here. Maui is a Sentry community, McPartland said. The 2023 wildfires, among the deadliest in U.S. history, left an indelible mark on the youth of Maui. The wind-driven fires ravaged Lahaina, Kula, Olinda and Pulehu, claiming at least 102 lives, destroying nearly 4, 000 structuresmost of them homesand causing approximately $5.5 billion in damage. Many children are now grappling with trauma, loss and emotional challenges, highlighting the urgent need for accessible mental health services. The wildfires displaced over 3, 000 students in West Maui, significantly affecting the start of the new academic year. The fire destroyed King Kamehameha III Elementary, while the other three schoolsPrincess Nahi ena ena Elementary, Lahaina Intermediate and Lahainaluna Highwere temporarily closed for air, water and soil testing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were incredibly grateful for Sentrys continued support and generosity, said Jason Economou, president and CEO of Maui United Way. The Sentry Malama na Keiki initiative is already making a tangible difference in the lives of children and families across Maui. This additional funding ensures we can keep this important work going and continue providing the mental health resources our community urgently needs. Shannon I i, a community member, said the support has been evident in the smiles of the people, noting that the Malama na Keiki team was present in many places from the beginning, working from the ground up. I i explained that trust is essential when reaching out for help, and for a community in distress, finding the strength to ask for support can be challenging. They shared resources given to them and then offered support, not just logistically, but holistically, she said. They have always been a part of the community. They didnt clock out at the end of the day. New York City experienced a 5% drop in major crime in 2024, Mayor Adams and NYPD Commissioner announced Monday, as they moved to send 200 more cops into the subway system. The drop in crime was led by a dip in murders, from 391 in 2023 to 377 last year, and 48 fewer people shot. This translates to 3,362 fewer incidents of major crime last year compared to the year before and these are not just numbers, Tisch said. Were talking about thousands of people who are not injured abused, attacked or targeted by criminals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was also a 5% drop in major crime in the subway system and in housing projects, Tisch and Adams announced in a press conference at NYPD headquarters at One Police Plaza in Lower Manhattan. But Tisch noted that we still must do more because people dont feel safe in our subways. The city has been rocked by a string of high-profile crimes in the subway recently, most notably the homeless woman fatally set afire in Coney Island last month. The additional cops, Tisch noted, will be assigned to ride the trains and patrol the platforms the two places where 78% of subway crime occurs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked about the overtime controls put in place in the wake of a still-burgeoning administrative overtime scandal, Tisch noted the newly-deployed officers are being paid straight time to patrol the subways. Another move, already underway, Tisch said, is the assignment of 650 cops to newly-designated zones, crime hotspots across the city, with plans to create weekly internal reports detailing specific segments of neighborhoods, blocks and even certain streets, where we see spikes in violence and disorder. In the summer months that 650 will grow to 1,000. She noted the recent drop in retail theft on Fulton St. in Downtown Brooklyn that followed the creation of such a zone. Despite the crime drop, rapes, lead by a surge in attacks by victims domestic partners, were up 19% last year. Tisch also noted the rightful legal broadening of what constitutes rape in New York State to include more forms of nonconsensual sexual contact. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Felony assaults also increased, by 5%, with spikes in stranger attacks, domestic violence and cops assaulted, Tisch said. The top cop and Adams also lamented again the problem with recidivism, noting sharp increases from 2018 in suspects arrested three or more times in one year for the same crime, typically after being released without bail. Those recidivism increases 147% for those charged with felony assault, 119% for grand larceny auto, 83% for robbery, 71% for grand larceny, 64% for shoplifting and 61% for burglary demoralize cops and traumatize victims, they said. Tisch noted the case of Gary Green Eyes Worhty, who was on lifetime parole when he was shot dead by police in November after shooting and wounding an NYPD cop and an innocent bystander in Queens. He had been arrested at least several times since his 2021 release from prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is evidence of a broken system, Tisch said, one that doesnt put the rights and needs of victims first. Adams said he will continue to push for changes to controversial criminal justice reforms that took effect at the start of 2020. He stressed that while he is not criticizing bail reform, which we had advocated for as a cop and state legislator, there clearly needs to be a move toward keeping off the streets those repeatedly accused of the same crime. Do you know that this does to Miss Jones on her way to school and she was robbed on Monday and shes walking down the block and she sees the person that robbed her back out on the street, robbing her neighbor? Adams asked. It destroys your feeling that your city is taking care of you. Gov. Ron DeSantis on Monday announced the appointment of five people to the University of West Florida Board of Trustees. The appointments of Paul Bailey, Gates Garcia, Adam Kissel, Scott Yenor and Chris Young must still be confirmed by the Florida Senate. Here's more on each of the potential trustees. Paul Bailey Bailey is an attorney for Welton Law Firm. He currently serves as an adjunct professor at Pensacola Christian College and is a registeredinstructor with the National Rifle Association. Bailey earned his bachelors degree in pre-law from Pensacola Christian College and his juris doctor from Regent University. Gates Garcia Garcia is the president and chief executive officer at Pinehill Capital Partners. He currently serves on The Catholic University of America Busch School of Business Board of Visitors and was the recipient of the 2024 Richard and Jacqueline Lincoln Fellow for The Claremont Institute. Garcia earned his bachelors degree in media studies from The Catholic University of America and his masters degree in business administration from the University of Florida. Adam Kissel Kissel is a visiting fellow on higher education reform for The Heritage Foundation, a senior fellow for the Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy, and a visiting scholar for the Texas Public Policy Foundation. He previously served as the deputy assistant secretary for Higher Education Programs with the United States Department of Education. He currently serves as the chair of the West Virginia Professional Charter School Board and is a member of the Civics, History, & Americas Future Advisory Council for America250. Kissel earned his bachelor's degree in English, American literature, and language from Harvard University and his masters degree from the University of Chicago. Scott Yenor Yenor is the chairman of The Ambrose School Board, a professor of political science at Boise State University, an honored visiting graduate faculty at Ashland University, and a Washington fellow at The Claremont Institutes Center for the American Way of Life. His research focuses on feminism, sexual liberation, and on dismantling the rule of social justice in Americas universities. He previously served as a visiting fellow on American political thought for The Heritage Foundation and a fellow for the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies. Yenor earned his bachelors degree from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and his doctorate degree in political science from Loyola University. Chris Young Young is a founder and senior partner at Perry & Young Law Firm, chief operating officer for Adcock Bros, Inc. and is owner and president of Adcock Transport and Adcock Direct. He has served the Chipola Appreciation Club, Big Brothers Big Sisters and the ARC of the Bay. He currently serves on the Ascension Bay Medical Center Foundation Board of Directors and is active in other local charities and civic groups. Young earned his associate degree from Chipola College and his Juris Doctor from Louisiana State University. This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: University of West Florida Board of Trustees has 5 men appointed Faith is an integral part of millions of Americans daily lives. One Nation Under God is committed to reflecting Americas voices, values and communities by covering stories of faith and religion, from the latest headlines to stories of hope. Subscribe here. (NewsNation) Journalist Megyn Kelly is calling the new thriller Conclave an anti-Catholic hit job. And shes not alone. On X, Kelly said, just made the huge mistake of watching the much-celebrated Conclave & it is the most disgusting anti-Catholic film I have seen in a long time. Kelly has 3.4 million followers on the platform and a massively successful podcast on Sirius XM. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Conclave screenwriter stands by movie after Megyn Kelly criticism Conclave, released in the United States in October of 2024, tells the fictional story of a papal conclave and depicts the infighting among the cardinals who are vying for the job and their deepest secrets and scandals. Directed by Edward Berger and written by Peter Straughan, the film premiered at the Telluride Film Festival in 2024 and received positive reviews from critics for its screenplay, cinematography and acting. But not everyone is praising it. In addition to Kelly, Catholic leader and media influencer Bishop Robert Barron urged Catholics to skip the movie. If you are interested in a film about the Catholic Church that could have been written by the editorial board of the New York Times, this is your movie, Barron said on X. He went on to call the movie woke, saying the hierarchy of the Church is a hotbed of ambition, corruption and desperate egotism, Conservatives are xenophobic extremists and the liberals are self-important schemers. What will become of Christians in the new Syria? Megyn Kelly visits SiriusXM Studios on March 28, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images) Conclave spoiler: I wish I had known Both Kelly and Barron commented on the films plot twist. Spoiler: They make the POPE INTERSEX! I wish I had known so I wouldnt have watched it. There are almost no redeeming characters in the movie every cardinal is morally bankrupt/repulsive. The only exception is the intersex pope (who surprise! has female reproductive parts) & the cardinal who keeps her secret bc of course that kind of Catholic secretary-keeping must be lionized. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hanukkah Lights: Q&A with an expert in Israels history Kelly also railed against the actors and director. Shame on Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci & John Lithgow for starting in it & shame on director Edward Berger (among others), she said. Kelly ended her post with a scathing allegation: They would never do this to Muslims, but Christians/Catholics are always fair game to mock/belittle/smear. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. Persistent heavy rain and melting snow due to milder temperatures caused Germany's Moselle river to overflow on Monday. The flood forecasting centre in the western state of Rhineland-Palatinate said water levels are expected to peak on Monday night. The maximum level for the city of Trier, near the border to Luxembourg, is expected to reach between 6.7 and 7.2 metres on Monday. Rain and snow are also forecast to continue in the coming days, with a further rise in water levels possible on the Moselle towards the middle of the week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Water levels are also expected to rise significantly on the smaller tributaries of the Moselle, such as the Ruwer, Kyll, Salm, Drohn and Lieser. However, the forecasts for flooding are currently uncertain due to the combination of snow, rain and thaw. Replacing federal pandemic relief funding critical to community programs could top Texas lawmakers' to-do list for mental health as they also address understaffing of the 988 suicide hotline, mental health in schools and reviving the workforce.Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar projected that the state will have a $20 billion surplus at the start of the session Jan. 14. Although the state has plenty of cash, competing priorities such as private school vouchers, campus security and fixing Medicaid enrollment issues might diminish whats available for mental health.Exacerbating funding needs is the Dec. 31 expiration of federal COVID-19 relief dollars that helped pay for a wide range of efforts, such as addressing health and infrastructure needs in local communities.The $350 billion program, part of the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act, awarded the state $203.4 million in mental health grants and an additional $252.8 million in substance abuse prevention and treatment grants. Some of the mental health programs the money paid for were telepsychiatry programs in schools and libraries, community mental health programs in churches, and peer-to-peer services in which mental wellness can be practiced in the community without a degree. These programs helped lessen the impact of the statewide shortage in the mental health provider workforce, which has created long waitlists for services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is not a formal funding option to replace the American Rescue Plan Act, said Alison Mohr Boleware, policy director for the Hogg Foundation for Mental Health. Many stakeholders and advocates are raising the alarm on what will happen if funds are not replaced. As this funding ends and a new presidential administration enters, Texas lawmakers must determine how to replace it overnight, while also sustaining funding for initiatives such as the Texas Child Mental Health Care Consortium, a group of leaders in health-related institutions that have been tasked with improving the mental health care system for youths. The initiative was also given a hefty bump by COVID-19 relief funding. The Texas Legislature has made historic, life-saving investments in mental health over the last decade, said Andy Keller, president and CEO of the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute. The 89th legislative session presents an opportunity to build on that commitment. Lawmakers have already filed dozens of bills ahead of the legislative session to address mental health. Here are some to watch: More providers in Medicaid The federal government wholly or partly designates more than 95% of Texas 254 counties as mental health professional shortage areas, with a pronounced effect in rural, border and frontier counties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The problem is even worse for those enrolled in Medicaid, the health insurance program for low-income individuals. Senate Bill 469 would allow social workers with masters degrees who are still waiting on their clinical licenses to treat Medicaid patients. Social workers are often the first point of contact for many people looking for mental health help. Social workers in Texas who have a masters degree and are working toward their clinical license are unable to bill Medicaid until they complete two years of supervision by a licensed clinician. Removing this limit could add more than 1,500 licensed master's-level social workers to the Medicaid program quickly. This is really a workforce priority, Boleware said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House Bill 154 could also add more Medicaid providers to the roster by increasing Medicaid reimbursement rates for mental health and substance use services. In Texas, Medicaid pays between $60 and $122 for a 50-minute session with a therapist who can charge $180 or more for that visit. This, among other factors, has led to more Texas mental health providers no longer accepting Medicaid. SB 176 would also allow schools to bill Medicaid for delivering behavioral health services on campus, creating another option for children in the health insurance program to access care. 988 funding The 988 suicide hotline is saddled with a shortfall of several million of dollars, and SB 188 would create a trust fund to support the program. Dialing 988 connects callers with crisis counselors regardless of location. Since launching in 2022, the five call centers in Texas have received more than 380,000 calls, the second-highest call volume in the nation, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness Texas. One-third of them occurred from January to June last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The system's need far exceeds its available funding. In fiscal year 2024, the state allocated $14 million through grants for 988 operations. However, in 2023, the projected operational costs for the five 988 centers in Texas were $21 million. The trust fund would be modeled after how the state helps fund 911 call centers. Mental health in schools Texas school districts have been struggling with high rates of chronic absenteeism since the COVID-19 pandemic. One in five Texas students was considered chronically absent defined as missing at least 10% of the school year in the 2022-23 school year, according to data collected by The Associated Press. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To address the problem, several bills lawmakers have already filed for the upcoming session require school districts to work with Communities In Schools, a nonprofit that has turned into the states largest provider of school-based behavioral health services. The reliance on the organization has forced its leaders to ask for a $10 million increase in state funding annually, particularly to help its efforts to reduce chronic absenteeism in Texas schools. Chronic absenteeism is just a piece of a larger root cause, and one of those key root causes is mental health and wellness for students, said Tasha Moore, chief executive officer for Communities In Schools of North Texas. The spike in chronic absenteeism is linked to undiagnosed mental health issues among students and the inability to build social skills when schools closed during the pandemic, Moore said. Communities In Schools has seen positive results from efforts to reduce chronic absenteeism in the South Plains region. Over the past five years, an average of 83% of case-managed students who needed attendance intervention have shown improvement and are attending school on time and consistently. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials with the organization believe they can replicate these results statewide. Another step that could help youth mental health is HB 1594, requiring health insurance plans to provide complete coverage to anyone younger than 26 years old who is experiencing psychosis for the first time. The plan would have to cover services such as psychotherapy, medication management, family support and casework. Lyssette Galvan, the National Allianceon Mental Illness Texas' public policy director, said that to truly help young people in crisis, the state needs to ensure that commercial insurance can pay for all of those services, which currently isnt happening. Another youth mental health bill to watch is by Rep. Jared Patterson, R-Frisco, that would prohibit minors from creating accounts on social media sites and require age verification for new users. It is among multiple measures to control the spread of cyberbullying, pornographic images and online exploitation among young people, particularly at school. Substance abuse State Rep. Erin Zwiener, D-Driftwood, has filed HB 1496, resurrecting a bill from last legislative session that would have legalized test strips that can detect fentanyl in drugs. The synthetic opioid is blamed for a rapidly growing number of overdose deaths because drug users often do not know the substances they are taking and often purchased illegally are laced with fentanyl. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Drug policy experts say that providing test strips to users and giving them a chance to avoid fatal overdoses opens the door to a continuum of care that could help get people off drugs. Traditionally, many tough-on-crime Republicans have opposed efforts aimed at minimizing harm for those addicted to drugs, such as legalizing fentanyl test strips and syringe exchange services, concerned that such moves would enable drug use. However, over the past several years, the troubling rise in opioid-related deaths has persuaded more Republicans, such as Gov. Greg Abbott, to support protections for those who continue to use drugs. Boleware said another step to tackling substance use problems in Texas is improving the current Good Samaritan law so that individuals who witness someone else overdosing on drugs will not be criminally charged if they call law enforcement. As of December, no bill had been filed to address the issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Texas Tribune is a member-supported, nonpartisan newsroom informing and engaging Texans on state politics and policy. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Texas Legislature: Mental health advocates seek new funding in 2025 LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) The Merdian Township Police Department is preparing for its deer cull from Jan. 13 to Feb. 16 as part of the Townships Deer Management Program. Meridian Township reports that the cull will occur in selected Township parks, land preserves and private property where consent was provided. Meridian Township police officers will cull during the evening and overnight hours when the parks are closed. Cull sites have been pre-selected based on their suitability for safe and controlled culling of the deer herd. Parks will remain open from dawn till dusk and signs have been posted to notify visitors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Traffic crashes involving deer have plagued Meridian Township for many years. These crashes are dangerous and lead to significant property damage, injuries, and sometimes even fatalities. The success of our deer cull can be observed in the data, said Meridian Township Police Chief Rick Grillo in a news release sent to 6 News. Meridian Township implemented the deer cull in 2020 to respond to the overpopulation of white-tailed deer. The plan will look to reduce deer-related accidents and promote biological diversity. Deer-related crashes in the Township have decreased by 36% since the culls implementation. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) issued the Township a Damage and Nuisance Animal Control Permit that allows the police department to perform the cull. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The permit allows for a controlled cull outside of the regular hunting season and has exceptions to hunting rules. The recommended goal by the MDNR is approximately 160 deer. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. One Campaign sign at the Michigan Democratic Party's election night watch party in Detroit on Nov. 5, 2024. (Photo by Andrew Roth/Michigan Advance) The three candidates seeking to be the next chair of the Michigan Democratic Party gathered over the weekend to discuss their vision for leading the party forward. Hosted by the Washtenaw County Democratic Party, the forum on Saturday featured former state Sen. Curtis Hertel Jr. (D-East Lansing), who recently lost his bid for the U.S. House; Michigan Democratic Party Rural Caucus Chair Mark Ludwig; and community organizer Al BJ Williams. Each is seeking to replace Lavora Barnes, who announced in November she would not seek reelection to the post she had held since 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One area all three agreed on was that the party needs to be rebuilt from the ground up, with more focus on grassroots supporters and less of a top-down approach, which, in one form or another, they all identified as a contributing factor to disappointing election results in November, in which Democrats lost their state House majority and failed to deliver Michigan for Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris. Ive talked to every county chair in the state, and you talk to people in the Upper Peninsula and you talk to people in Detroit. You talk to people all across [Michigan] and they feel like theres been a lack of communication that they feel like they dont matter. That has to change, said Hertel. Michigan Democratic Party Chairwoman Lavora Barnes speaks at the Michigan Democratic Partys nominating convention in Lansing on Aug. 21, 2022. (Andrew Roth | Michigan Advance) Ludwig was more direct in his criticism of the state party, which he said was completely disconnected from its members. What became clearer as I started getting around the state as a candidate is that neglect of our members, our parties and our clubs, is truly universal, said Ludwig. Calls and emails are seldom returned, our employees lack direction, and our party officers are notably absent from the media or even our county and club events. Meanwhile, our trifecta has eroded to a bipod, lame duck was extra lame on one side, and there is little agreement on exactly how we should proceed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ludwig was referring to Democrats now only controlling the governors mansion and the state Senate this term. He also appeared to be criticizing the House for failing to act on a number of bills in the final days of the Democrats majority last year, in contrast to the Senate. Many other Democrats have aired similar frustrations. Community organizer Al BJ Williams, taking part in a candidate forum for MDP Chair, held by the Washtenaw County Democratic Party. Jan. 4, 2025. Screenshot Williams agreed that grassroots members had been neglected, and said the fix had to begin at the precinct level and work up from there. We need to operate in every single county, said Williams, noting that several counties in the state did not have functioning county parties. We cannot [be] operating Project 83 and we dont have 83 Democratic county parties. That doesnt even make sense to me, said Williams. The job of chair is standing up our county parties, making sure that we have a precinct delegate in every single precinct, because remember we lost [the presidential election] in 2016 just over 10,000 votes, the exact number of precincts 2.2 voters per precinct. So just think if we actually had a fully functioning precinct delegate program statewide and each precinct delegate just took two people to the polls with them. Guess what? We would not have lost in 2016. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another point of agreement among all three hopefuls was a condemnation of Detroit Mayor Mike Duggans decision to run as an independent for Michigan governor in 2026, with each seeing it as an unforgivable betrayal by the former Democrat. The idea that he actually stood up at the Democratic National Committee and showed up every time that the vice president was here and now wants to demonize this party using right-wing tropes is absolutely ridiculous, said Hertel. We have seen people before that run populist campaigns paid for by billionaires. Thats what Mike Duggan is. We have to be willing to punch him in the mouth and say exactly who he is. And Im not here for it. Ludwig also didnt mince words. Mike Duggan can go straight to hell as far as Im concerned. The disloyalty to turn his back on this party after 40 years of enjoying our warm embrace is gross, he said. Michigan Democratic Party Rural Caucus Chair Mark Ludwig taking part in a candidate forum for MDP Chair, held by the Washtenaw County Democratic Party. Jan. 4, 2025. Screenshot Williams, meanwhile, called Duggan a fox in the henhouse who was only a Democrat of convenience in order to run as Wayne County prosecutor and later as Detroits mayor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So to let him into the hen house, take all of our data, all of our relationships, and then walk away with it? Man, if youre not pissed off, Im upset about that and he cant come to me asking for nothing. He cant be my friend after that. I feel absolutely betrayed, said Williams. As a chair of the party, we are going to win in 2026 and were going to put together a strategy to beat Mike Duggan with as many independents in the race as possible. The forum was mostly cordial until the closing statements, during which Ludwig took direct aim at Hertels motivation for seeking the position of MDP chair. I do not believe that the state party chair is a consolation prize for losing the 7th [Congressional District race]. I believe we need to focus on the bottom of the party. We do not need another Lansing actor. We do not need the governors friend, said Ludwig, apparently referring to Gov. Gretchen Whitmers endorsement of Hertel. We need somebody who will go to hard places, say hard things and take a clear-eyed look at the real problems in this party, Ludwig continued. You need someone who commits to stay out of the ideological fights within the party and focus on what we need to do to rebuild a grassroots aggressive up and down the ballot party, not mess around in the politics of Lansing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hertel kept his response brief to close out the forum. Im going to choose to ignore what was said at the end of this because I dont think thats actually what politics is about and I think its become too much of that to be honest with you, he said to applause from the audience. Former state Sen. Curtis Hertel speaks at Vice President Kamala Harris rally UAW Local 652 in Lansing, Oct. 18, 2024 | Susan J. Demas Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I believe that a party is made up of the people that are willing to go out and do the work and that we have failed to do is actually have real communication and go out and work with those people. As chair, Im going to do that. Democrats will select their next party chair at their biennial state convention in February at Detroits Renaissance Center. Michigan Republicans will also decide on a new party chair at their convention, also in February in Detroit, after it was announced that current chair, Pete Hoekstra, would be nominated to serve as President-elect Donald Trumps ambassador to Canada. The four GOP candidates in the running to take the helm of the state party include former party Co-Chair Meshawn Maddock, state Sen. Jim Runestad (R-White Lake), Republican consultant Scott Greenlee, and Joe Cella, former ambassador to Fiji during the first Trump administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maddock is among 15 people charged in the 2020 fake electors case, where they stand accused of sending false electoral votes for Trump to the U.S. Senate and National Archives. That case is still pending in court. Michigan Republican Party Chairman Pete Hoekstra speaks at a rally on Saginaw Valley State University campus in Michigan ahead of President Donald Trump on Oct. 3, 2024 ahead of the presidential election | Photo: Anna Liz Nichols SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX UTICA, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) The family of a Mid-State Correctional Facility inmate who was being treated at the Wynn Hospital has said he has died. The family of 22-year-old Edward Sholtz of Syracuse announced on Sunday that he had passed away after almost three weeks at the Wynn Hospital in Utica. This is the second inmate death at the prisons in Marcy in as many months. The Marcy Correctional Facility across the street from Mid-State is already under investigation for the death of Robert Brooks, who died in December after an encounter with staff. Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick has been named by New York State Attorney General Letitia James as the special prosecutor in that investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sholtz was sentenced to 12 years in prison in 2021 after he admitted to attempting to rape a woman in Syracuse. He was also accused of assaulting another person attempting to stop him. According to family members, Sholtz was being held in a single cell. While at Mid-State, family members say Sholtz was taken to the hospital on December 17 and was declared brain-dead three days later. The Office of Special Investigations at the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) has said they are investigating Sholtzs death. According to spokesman Thomas Mailey, there seemed to be no sign of misconduct or foul play. By law, The Attorney Generals office will begin their own investigation into Sholtzs death. The investigation by the Office of Special Investigations remains ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is an ongoing investigation. We will provide more information as soon as it becomes available to us. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WUTR/WFXV - CNYhomepage.com. Gunmen opened fire on a bus carrying Israelis in the occupied West Bank on Monday, killing two 70-year-old women and a 35-year-old policeman, Israel's military said. Israeli soldiers have launched widespread operations in the northern West Bank looking for the attackers. Israel captured the West Bank, Gaza and east Jerusalem in the 1967 Mideast war, and the Palestinians seek all three territories for their future state. Meanwhile, the war in Gaza is raging with no end in sight, although there has reportedly been recent progress in long-running talks aimed at a ceasefire and release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel's war in Gaza has killed over 45,800 Palestinians, according to local health authorities, who say women and children make up more than half of those killed. They do not say how many of the dead were militants. The war began when Hamas-led militants stormed across the border in a massive surprise attack nearly 15 months ago, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting around 250. Some 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, at least a third of whom are believed to be dead. ___ Here's the latest: Militants in Gaza fire 3 rockets into Israel, no casualties JERUSALEM - Militants in Gaza fired three projectiles into Israel on Monday, one of which was intercepted, the Israeli military said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were no reports of casualties, but the rockets damaged a home in the southern Israeli city of Sderot, which is located near Gaza. Israeli media reported it was the third time the same home had sustained damage from rockets from Gaza. After a long pause, militants in northern Gaza have launched near-daily rockets in recent weeks despite the ongoing Israeli military operations in the area. The launches highlighted that although Hamas has suffered major losses, they seem to repeatedly regroup after Israeli operations. Palestinian militants have fired thousands of rockets and missiles towards Israel since the war began on Oct. 7, 2023. Israels military offensive has turned vast swathes of Gaza into an uninhabitable wasteland, erasing whole neighborhoods. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UN says Israel shot at one of its aid convoys in Gaza CAIRO Israeli soldiers opened fire on a United Nations aid convoy in central Gaza, according to a World Food Program, which provides desperately needed food and aid. None of the eight staff members were injured, the WFP said Monday. The WFP said the Israeli military shot at least 16 bullets toward their convoy of three vehicles on Sunday, despite receiving necessary clearance from the military. The WFP said shooting at a clearly-marked U.N. aid convoy was unacceptable and called on all sides to allow the safe passage of humanitarian aid. The Israeli military did not have an immediate comment on the episode. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In November, the military struck a car belonging to the charity World Central Kitchen, killing five employees, after claiming that one of the employees had ties to the Oct. 7, 2023 attack that sparked the war in Gaza. The strike highlighted the dangerous work of delivering aid in Gaza, where the war has displaced much of the 2.3 million population and caused widespread hunger. Israeli forces withdraw from a third town in southern Lebanon as part of ceasefire deal BEIRUT The Lebanese army began deploying to the southern coastal city of Naqoura as the Israeli army withdrew, the U.S. and Lebanon said Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel has already pulled out of two other southern towns, Khiam and Shamaa, since the ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel went into effect over a month ago. Both Israel and Hezbollah agreed to pull their forces out of southern Lebanon before the end of January, which will be secured by the Lebanese army and U.N. peacekeepers. The phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon is going according to the plan, said U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein, but he did not confirm whether the pullout would be completed within the 60-day limit under the ceasefire conditions. We have 20 days left to reach the 60 days. We are going to continue the same work that has led to the successful withdrawal and deployment that we saw today, Hochstein said. The Israeli military said it is committed to the understanding in regards to the ceasefire conditions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The deployment coincided with a meeting of the committee overseeing the ceasefire agreement in Ras al-Naqoura, which is home to the headquarters of the U.N. peacekeeping mission. The meeting was attended by Hochstein, who arrived in Beirut on Monday. Hochstein helped broker the ceasefire that ended the 14-month war. After the deployment is completed in Naqoura, the Lebanese army said specialized units will survey the area to remove unexploded ordnance, and urged residents to avoid the area. UN envoy for Yemen arrives in Houthi-held capital city UNITED NATIONS The U.N. special envoy for Yemen has arrived in the Houthi rebel-held capital of Sanaa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hans Grundberg's visit is part of the ongoing efforts to de-escalate the current tensions that have engulfed the region and Yemen, U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Monday. "In addition, his efforts will focus on advancing the peace process. The Iran-backed Houthis have stepped up their missile attacks against Israel, and have been targeting shipping in the Red Sea corridor for over a year attacks they say won't stop until there's a ceasefire in Gaza. Israel has repeatedly bombarded Yemen's ports, oil infrastructure and the airport in Sanaa, some 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) away. Well also be pushing for the release of the arbitrarily detained U.N. personnel and also from other NGOs and civil society, the U.N. spokesman said. The Houthis claim the detainees, most of them held since June, are part of an American-Israeli spy network, an allegation vehemently denied by the U.N., NGO organizations, governments and others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three Israelis killed by gunmen targeting bus in the occupied West Bank JERUSALEM Israels rescue service said gunmen attacked a bus carrying Israelis in the occupied West Bank, killing at least three people and wounding eight others. The attack occurred Monday in the Palestinian village of Al-Funduq, on one of the main east-west roads crossing the territory. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to settle accounts with the attackers and with everyone who assisted them. Hamas praised the attack in a statement, but did not claim responsibility for it. Violence has surged in the West Bank since the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza began in October 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Palestinian Health Ministry says at least 838 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire in the West Bank since the start of the war in Gaza. Most appear to have been militants killed in battles with Israeli troops, but the dead also include participants in violent protests and civilian bystanders. At least 46 Israelis, including 19 soldiers, have been killed in violent attacks by Palestinian militants, according to the U.N. Rebel forces in Syria are building a transitional government after toppling the regime of President Bashar Assad in a lightning-quick advance across the country. The Israel Defense Forces continues its intense airstrike and ground campaigns in Gaza, particularly in the north of the strip around several Palestinian hospitals. A latest round of peace talks to end the 15-month-old war is set to resume in Qatar. Meanwhile, the November ceasefire in Lebanon is holding despite ongoing Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah targets, which Israeli officials say are responses to ceasefire violations by the Iranian-backed militant group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tensions remain high between Israel and Iran after tit-for-tat long-range strikes in recent months and threats of further military action from both sides. The IDF and the Yemeni Houthis also continue to exchange attacks. Latest Developments Jan 7, 7:01 AM Israeli settlers attack West Bank Palestinian villages There were multiple overnight attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in parts of the West Bank, following a shooting attack that killed three Israelis and injured eight others earlier on Monday. PHOTO: Israeli military vehicles operate during a raid at the Al-Faraa camp near Tubas, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, on Jan. 7, 2025. (Raneen Sawafta/Reuters) The Palestinian Authority-run WAFA news agency reported at least two attacks by settlers on Palestinian communities in Bethlehem and Ramallah. The Yesh Din human rights group reported as many as 100 settlers attacking Palestinian villages, some in the al-Funduq area where Monday's attack occurred. Israeli security forces are still searching for the suspected perpetrators of Monday's shooting attack, which Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz described as "an act of war." -ABC News' Joe Simonetti Jan 6, 1:02 PM 3 Israelis killed in West Bank shooting Three Israelis were killed in a shooting that targeted a bus and a vehicle in the occupied West Bank on Monday morning, security and emergency officials said. An Israeli police officer and two women in their 60s were killed, Israeli emergency services said. The attack occurred in the village of Al-Funduq, on one of the main east-west roads crossing the Palestinian territory, much of which is under Israeli security control. PHOTO: Israeli rescuers and security forces work at the site of an attack near the village of Al-Funduq, in the occupied West Bank, on Jan. 6, 2025. (Gil Cohen-magen/AFP via Getty Images) Israel's Magen David Adom rescue service said it provided medical treatment to seven injured people, including the bus driver who was in serious condition. The Israel Defense Forces said it launched a manhunt for the suspected Palestinian shooters. "Anyone who follows the path of Hamas in Gaza and sponsors the murder and harm of Jews will pay heavy prices, " Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said in a post on his X account, reacting to the attack. Sending his condolences to the families of the victims, the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the attackers "will not get away." "We will find the abhorrent murderers and settle accounts with them and with all those who aided them," his statement said. The Palestinian Health Ministry in Ramallah said in an extensive report Sunday that at least 838 Palestinians -- including 173 children -- have been killed by Israeli fire and over 6,700 have been injured in the West Bank since the start of the war in Gaza in October 2023. -ABC News' Jordana Miller, Diaa Ostaz and Somayeh Malekian Jan 6, 5:55 AM Blinken hopes for Gaza ceasefire in administration's final weeks Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters Monday that the U.S. wants a ceasefire deal in Gaza and all remaining captives released within the next two weeks, before President-elect Donald Trump takes office on Jan. 20. PHOTO: Secretary of State Antony Blinken waves before he boards a plane at the Osan Air Base in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, on Jan. 6, 2025. (Lee Jin-man/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) "We very much want to bring this over the finish line in the next two weeks," Blinken told reporters while in Seoul, South Korea. Blinken reported "intensified engagement," including by Hamas, on reaching a deal, though added "we are yet to see agreement on final points." "We need Hamas to make the final necessary decisions to complete the agreement and to fundamentally change the circumstance for the hostages, getting them out, for people in Gaza, bringing them relief, and for the region as a whole, creating an opportunity to actually move forward to something better, more secure for everyone involved," Blinken said. "If we don't get it across the finish line in the next two weeks, I'm confident that it will get its completion at some point, hopefully sooner rather than later," Blinken added. -ABC News' Joe Simonetti Jan 6, 2:51 AM WHO director calls for release of Kamal Adwan hospital director Tedros Ghebreyesus, the director of the World Health Organization, said in a statement Saturday that WHO has received no updates about Dr. Hossam Abu Safiya, the director of North Gaza's Kamal Adwan hospital, since he was detained by Israeli forces on Dec. 27th. "We continue to urge Israel to release him. We repeat: attacks on hospitals and health professionals must end. People in Gaza need access to health care. Ceasefire!" he said in a statement. -ABC News' Victoria Beaule Jan 6, 2:51 AM Israeli strikes kill 150 in Gaza, officials say, as peace talks resume More than 150 people have been killed in Israeli attacks across the Gaza Strip over the past three days, according to Palestinian health authorities. PHOTO: Palestinians carry white sacks containing the bodies of those killed in overnight Israeli airstrikes on the Khan Younis refugee camp, in the southern Gaza Strip, on Jan. 4, 2025. (Abdel Kareem Hana/AP) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The series of airstrikes on dozens of Hamas targets came amid a renewed push to reach a ceasefire in the 15-month-old war and return Israeli hostages home before President-elect Donald Trump takes office later this month. Delegations from both Israel and Hamas were dispatched to resume indirect negotiations in Doha on Friday. The talks will be brokered by Qatari and Egyptian mediators. President Joe Biden's administration, which is helping to broker the talks, urged Hamas to agree to a deal. Hamas said it was committed to reaching an agreement deal, but it remains unclear how close the two sides are. -ABC News Nasser Atta, Bruno Nota, Diaa Ostaz, Samy Zyara and Morgan Winsor Deserving graduating student teachers from Middle Tennessee State Universitys College of Education will now get a boost to equip their classrooms thanks to Middle Tennessee Electric. MTE recently awarded $40,000 to MTSU to distribute each semester for the next four years through a new initiative called the Spark Awards. The College of Education recently awarded the first $2,500 awards to two fall graduates Lyric James and Natalie Burridge which allows these future educators to jump-start their careers without the financial strain of properly setting up their classrooms. "We are thrilled to collaborate with an outstanding community partner like Middle Tennessee Electric, said Neporcha Cone, dean of the College of Education. Driven by a genuine desire to support teachers, MTE, led by their community relations coordinator and MTSU agribusiness education alum Jay Sanders, made a generous contribution to establish the MTE Spark Awards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a former classroom teacher, I understand how challenging it can be to create an inviting and effective learning environment for students, she continued. These awards will not only provide valuable resources for new teachers but will also enhance the educational experience for the students who learn in these thoughtfully prepared spaces. Sanders, a 2008 alumnus, said his organization serves members of the electric cooperative with more than just electricity. We're committed to supporting educators and their families in a variety of ways. One way we can partner with educators is through the Spark Award initiative this program will benefit new teachers and help jump-start their career in the classroom, he said. Its an honor for MTE to partner with MTSU and future educators on this initiative. The award was named Spark because the awards help ignite teachers careers. Eligible students must apply with two letters of recommendation and statement of need that is reviewed by a campus committee to select recipients. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An end-of-semester event in the James Union Buildings Tennessee Room celebrated education students who completed their semester-long student teaching residencies. James, 22, a senior early childhood education major, taught second grade this past semester at Rutherford Countys Rock Springs Elementary and will continue to do so after graduation. She was overly joyful and very grateful, especially being a first-year teacher. I got my keys the week before school, so I came into nothing. I am just very grateful to be chosen, said the La Vergne native who added that she was most excited to buy cubbies for her classroom with this award, so that her students can store their personal items to give them that clean, open space. Burridge, 23, a senior elementary education major from Fairview, completed her second student teaching placement at Williamson Countys Westwood Elementary, and she continues to be a substitute teacher there with hopes to land a full-time position. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It's really surreal, said Burridge, who teared up as she accepted the award. I was emotional because I just didn't expect that. It like means a lot as educators whenever you built yourself up, and no one helped you it means a lot. I've never been handed money at all, and so this amount is insane. Shes most excited to buy flexible seating, which is where students have a variety of seating options in the classroom, because I know I want (to teach) the younger grades, and flexible seating is so expensive. This Spark Awards program is believed to be the first of its kind in Middle Tennessee. Registration open for CSI:MTSU summer camp Registration is now open for next summer's 2025 CSI:MTSU, a day camp that is designed for rising 9th-12th graders and coordinated through MTSUs Forensic Institute for Research and Education, also known as FIRE. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Set for June 10-13, 2025, the four-day summer camp is an experiential course that teaches basic forensic science principles through lectures, hands-on exercises, and the investigation of a mock crime scene. Lectures are delivered by working professionals and may include a variety of forensic disciplines, such as DNA testing, fingerprint analysis, blood pattern analysis, anthropology, odontology, forensic psychology, and shoe wear and impression evidence. The camp culminates in the participants working in teams to process a mock crime scene with the goal of solving the case and then presenting their findings to a panel of judges. To register, go to csimtsu.com for more details about camp cost, disclaimers and other information. This article originally appeared on Murfreesboro Daily News Journal: MTSU Mondays: College of Ed awarded $40K from Middle TN Electric CROMWELL, Conn. (WTNH) Senior students from a Middletown high school went on a shopping spree Monday. It was a chance to help them kick-start their careers in the trades. Fifty senior students from Vinal Technical High School were dropped off by school buses at the Lowes in Cromwell. When they walked through the door, they were met with cheering and loud applause from employees. Each student was surprised with a $200 gift card as part of a $10,000 shopping spree from Lowes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Miss America 2025 may come from Connecticut Its not what I was expecting, but its nice, student Alex Richwine said. They actually show that they care, rather than just saying it. Many, like Steven Pedraza, said they are in desperate need of tools so that they can kick-start their career, whether it be in carpentry, electrical or plumbing. Theres certain people in the world that dont got money to buy things. Im one of them. I just want to say thank you to Lowes, thank you to our school. Its amazing to be here, Pedraza said. Teacher David Cruickshank was instrumental in making the surprise happen, through some connections he has at the company. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These students, a lot of them are going into the trade now or they work in them already for work-based learning, he said. So to be able to have them get some extra tools to help them in their career is awesome. The hope is that initiatives like this one will inspire more kids to pursue a career in the trades. It comes as Lowes is reporting that 85% of its contractors have trouble finding skilled trade workers. Its common sense for us: support a school that supports the community that supports our pros, is something we stand for day in and day out, Lowes Cromwell store manager Kyle Ragalia said. The company said an estimated 500,000 workers are needed to meet the demand this year alone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Canada's governing Liberal Party will announce on Sunday who will take over from Justin Trudeau as leader, after a crucial vote that will change the face of Canadian politics. About 140,000 of the party's members have been voting for their preferred candidate, with results expected to be announced around 18:00 EDT (22:00 GMT). The new leader will become the country's prime minister. But because the Liberals are a minority government, holding onto the top job will require winning a general election, which could be called in the coming weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whoever replaces Trudeau will have to grapple with US President Donald Trump's threats against Canada, which include an escalating trade war and repeated calls to make the country the US's "51st state". The issue has dominated the campaigns of all four candidates vying for the top job. Here's what to know about them. Former central banker Mark Carney Former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor Mark Carney has pitched himself as a strong fiscal manager who can help countries navigate challenging times, including his own. "I've helped manage multiple crises, and I've helped save two economies," he said in his campaign launch speech. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Widely seen as the frontrunner for the job, he's sought to position himself as the man who can steer the country through the fallout caused by Trump's tariffs. "In a situation like this, you need experience in terms of crisis management, you need negotiating skills," he said during a leadership debate last month. The 59-year-old was born in Canada's Northwest Territories and grew up in Edmonton, Alberta. He has sought to highlight his Canadian roots and paint himself as a political outsider. He has served in recent months as a special economics adviser to Trudeau, and has long been considered a contender for the top job, though the Harvard graduate has never held public office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau himself admitted that he had long been trying to recruit Carney to his team. Carney tried to distance himself from the unpopular PM, saying he is "not the only Liberal in Canada who believes that the prime minister and his team let their attention wander from the economy too often". Trudeau's approval ratings have however improved since Trump's return to office. Carney brings with him expertise on environmental matters through his role as the United Nations special envoy on climate action, recently calling the goal of net zero "the greatest commercial opportunity of our time". He is a champion of some Liberal policies that have been unpopular, like the federal carbon tax, the party's signature climate policy that critics argue is a financial burden for Canadians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He has recently backed away from the policy, saying in May that it had "served a purpose up until now". He has received a number of cabinet endorsements, including Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault and Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly. Former Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland [Reuters] The Toronto member of parliament became one of the most well-known members of Trudeau's team. While she had long been seen as a trusted senior official in his inner circle, a rift with the prime minister's office led to her recent abrupt resignation in December. That was a blow to Trudeau's already-shaky hold on power, helping to usher in his own resignation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two disagreed on how to address President Trump's threat of tariffs, among other financial policies as Canada faced a C$60bn deficit ($42bn; 33bn). Born to a Ukrainian mother in the western province of Alberta, the 56-year-old was a journalist before entering politics. She entered the House of Commons in 2013 and two years later joined Trudeau's cabinet with a trade brief after he swept the party to power. As Minister of Foreign Affairs she helped Canada renegotiate a free trade deal with the US and Mexico. She was later named deputy prime minister and minister of finance and oversaw Canada's financial response to the Covid pandemic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 2019 Globe and Mail profile said depending who you asked, Freeland is either a last, best hope for the liberal world order or an out-of-touch idealist. Her steadfast support of Ukraine earned praise in some quarters but the Harvard-educated MP has had her share of critics, including Trump who recently called her "toxic". In her launch - walking onto the stage to the 1982 song, Maneater - she leaned into her time renegotiating a trade deal under the first Trump administration, and said she would take on the president again. "I will lead a true Canadian response to the threat we now face. We will be united, we will be strong, we will be smart and that's why we will win," she told the crowd of supporters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She has received the backing of Health Minister Mark Holland and Justice Minister Arif Virani, among other MPs. Liberal House leader Karina Gould [Bloomberg via Getty Images] Karina Gould, a former trade and investment specialist, has thrown her hat in the ring, declaring she would represent a "new generation" if elected. She was first elected in 2015 and has served a number of roles in Trudeau's cabinet - the youngest woman to serve as a minister in Canada. The 37-year-old was families minister, international development minister and later Minister of Democratic Institutions, before taking on her current role as House Leader, where she oversees the government's legislative agenda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gould launched her bid by saying "Canadians have lost trust in our party". She has taken aim at the US when trying to convince voters to choose her as leader, telling CNBC "trust has been broken" between Canada and its southern neighbour. She said fentanyl, one of Trump's justifications for imposing tariffs, comes from Canada in "miniscule amounts." "But if that's what he cares about," she said, referring to the US president, "well then let's put together an inspection team at the border to inspect every truck that goes south for fentanyl and every truck that comes north for illegal guns". Businessman Frank Baylis [Getty Images] Frank Baylis, a former Liberal member of parliament, was the first out of the gate to announce he is seeking the leadership of the party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He has said he will bring his experience from the world of business to address the affordability and cost-of-living challenges facing Canadians. Baylis is the executive chairman of a medical device company that was founded by his mother and where he later served as president. It was sold to a US firm in 2021. He is an engineer by training. Baylis served in parliament from 2015-2019 and was a founding member of the Parliamentary Black Caucus. He has been heavily critical of Trudeau's approach to Trump's tariff threats and has claimed he would deal with Trump better than his opponents, casting his outsider experience as a businessman as a strength. "Whether we like it or not, the Americans have put as a president a highly aggressive bully of a man, who's a businessman," he told The Canadian Press. "And people coming from a genteel world of bureaucrats or banking, they're not going to know how to deal with this character," he said, taking aim at his opponents. Who dropped out? Many prominent cabinet ministers chose not to run in this race, including Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc, Foreign Minister Melanie Joly and Industry Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne, who all said they need to focus on their current duties. Jaime Battiste, a member of parliament (MP) from the Atlantic province of Nova Scotia, dropped out earlier in the race. Another hopeful, former Toronto area MP Ruby Dhalla, was kicked out of the race over "extremely serious" violations, the party said. Those include allegations of inaccuracies in her campaign's financial reporting. Ms Dhalla has appealed the decision. Mike Rinder, a former senior executive with the Church of Scientology who later pivoted to criticizing the controversial religious organization publicly with a blog, a podcast and a docuseries co-starring ex-member Leah Remini, has died. He was 69. The Emmy winner posted about his own impending death Sunday on his personal blog, announcing that the missive titled "Farewell" would be the last post on his website. "I have shuffled off this mortal coil in accordance with the immutable law that there are only two certainties in life: death and taxes," his message said, adding, "I rest in peace." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "My only real regret is not having achieved what I said I wanted to ending the abuses of Scientology, especially disconnection and seeing [my son] Jack into adulthood," the whistleblower wrote. "If you are in any way fighting to end those abuses please keep the flag flying never give up." Read more: From the archives: The Scientology story, a special report The Tampa Bay Times reported that Rinder died Sunday in Palm Harbor, Fla., due to esophageal cancer. Rinder who appeared in the bombshell 2015 documentary "Going Clear" and produced and appeared in the subsequent A&E docuseries "Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath" said his website would remain active as an archive with more than 4,000 posts. He described the site as "a labor of love and passion which has allowed me to speak my mind and offer my perspective with no outside filters." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I have been lucky living two lives in one lifetime. The second one the most wonderful years anyone could wish for with all of you and my new family!" he added. Read more: 'There's a war going on': L.A. anti-Scientology protests bring arrests, attack allegations In a message cross-posted on Rinder's Instagram page, his wife, Christie, confirmed his death. "I speak for so many when I say the sadness and pain we feel mirror the depth of our unwavering love for you," she wrote. "Your courage, bravery, and integrity are unmatched and will forever inspire us. You have been the pillar of stability in our lives, filling our days with your strength, wisdom, love, laughter and devotion. The world will remember you. My best friend, my hero, my love, Michael John Rinder." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Journalist Tony Ortega, who has long covered Scientology, announced in a June 2023 post on his Underground Bunker blog that Rinder had advanced esophageal cancer. Mike Rinder sent us an email today, to let us know that he had shuffled off this mortal coil," Ortega tweeted Sunday. "That was so like him, thoughtful to the end. Were just coming to grips with this news." Remini posted about visiting Rinder in Florida in December amid his cancer battle and praised the community that mobilized to care for him and his family during his final days. The "King of Queens" star has not yet posted publicly about Rinder's death, and her representative did not immediately respond Monday to The Times' request for comment. Read more: Church of Scientology fires back after Leah Remini sues, says she's 'horrible' and 'toxic' Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rinder was born on April 19, 1955, in Adelaide, Australia. He was raised as a Scientologist after his parents joined the organization when he was about 6. He said that he "finally escaped the organization" in 2007 when he was 52, publicly speaking out against it in an investigative series for the St. Petersburg Times in 2009. As a child, he traveled with his family from Australia to England twice in the 1960s to visit the home of sci-fi writer and Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard. His parents participated in advanced Scientology courses and auditing or counseling and he joined the senior-level Sea Organization when he graduated from high school in April 1973. "This is the dedicated core of scientology, Sea Org members sign a billion year commitment to forward the aims of scientology and live communally with other Sea Org members, pretty much out of touch with the outside world," Rinder said on his website. He said that as an adult he first met Hubbard, a God-like figure in the organization, in October 1973 aboard Hubbards ship Apollo. He remained in Sea Org until 2007, getting married and having two children who were born into Sea Org branches based in Clearwater, Fla., and in Hemet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Church of Scientology is on opposite ends of two celebrity rape cases in L.A., New York The "A Billion Years" author said he and his first wife, Cathy, divorced after he left the church and his mother, daughter Taryn and son Benjamin "disconnected" from him, along with his brother, sister and members of their family. The ex-member accused Sea Org of fostering a culture of "violence and abuse that had become endemic" under the leadership of Hubbard successor David Miscavige, who took over when Hubbard died in 1986. "While Hubbard had been unpredictable, sometimes cruel and harsh and other times humorous and compassionate, Miscavige was exclusively cruel and harsh. He had seized power and held onto it ruthlessly," Rinder wrote on his website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the 1980s, Rinder became the executive director of Office of Special Affairs and a public-facing representative for the organization. He handled media and public relations and said he oversaw much litigation for and against the church, dealing with "the so-called enemies" of Scientology and directing their "destruction." During that time, he said, the church coordinated smear and intimidation campaigns against journalists, former members and critics of Scientology. Read more: Judge 'troubled' by Danny Masterson's attorneys tracking down jurors after rape trial More recently, Rinder served as a source for the The Times on stories about the high-profile trials of actor Danny Masterson and director Paul Haggis, who have both been affiliated with the church. The church has publicly denounced Rinder and Remini, who testified on ex-member Haggis behalf, and said that they have no credibility and make up lies about the church for money. The organization has also waged a campaign to cut down Rinder's credibility and said he was removed from the church "in total disgrace" by its ecclesiastical leader, "stripped of any authority and ultimately expelled for gross malfeasance." Scientology has denied Rinder's allegations of abuse and violence. Representatives for the church did not immediately respond Monday to The Times request for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rinder is survived by his second wife, Christie, their son Jack and Christie's son Shane. In lieu of flowers, he asked that contributions be made Jack's college fund. "Let the flowers grow and look to the future," Rinder wrote on his website. Sign up for Screen Gab, a free newsletter about the TV and movies everyones talking about from the L.A. Times. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Mike Rinder, a former top Scientology spokesperson who later broke away and became one of the churchs most outspoken critics, died Jan. 5 in Palm Harbor due to esophageal cancer. He was 69. Rinder, who once worked closely with church leader David Miscavige, was a crucial source in the St. Petersburg Times 2009 multipart investigation into Scientology, The Truth Rundown. Later, he went on to win two Emmys for his work on the docuseries Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath. Rinder was born in Australia and raised as a Scientologist. His parents learned about the church from a neighbor who had gone to a talk by Scientologys founder, L. Ron Hubbard. Rinder wrote that he started regularly attending a local Scientology center as a young child. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though Rinder earned a scholarship to attend the University of Adelaide, his parents instead pushed him to join the Sea Organization, an elite group that lived and traveled with Hubbard aboard his ship. Really, my life was preordained into Scientology, he wrote in his 2022 book, A Billion Years. Life in the Sea Org While part of the church, Rinder married a fellow Sea Org member and had two children, though he recalled in his book that he had little time to see them. His focus was working his way up to the top ranks of Scientology. Leading the Office of Special Affairs, he became one of the groups most prominent spokespeople. He later would write about how the job required him to smear critics of the church and work with high-profile members, including actor Tom Cruise. Rinder followed the Scientology tradition of fair game, attacking anyone who spoke out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My days were endless, crammed with keeping track of Scientologys enemies, conducting programs to neutralize them, putting out fires on the internet, and dealing with the constant celebrity issues, Rinder wrote. Former Scientologist Karen de la Carriere said Rinder was a handsome man, with an Australian accent that charmed people. Even if a reporter was aggressive, they would kind of be a little bit seduced, said de la Carriere, who became friends with Rinder in the 1970s. Reporters can be very hard-nosed, but theyd start off aggressive and be more gentle with Mike Rinder. De la Carriere said Rinder suffered for Scientology, enduring beatings and verbal lashings from the groups leader. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whenever you were close with David Miscavige, sooner or later youre going to fall in extreme punishment, she said. Theres no such thing as making a mistake. You are deemed a criminal if error is made. Rinder would later go public with how he endured years of living in The Hole, a detention center in California where high-ranking members of Scientology slept under desks, ate scraps of leftover food and tortured each other. Rinder wrote about occasionally being removed by Miscavige to speak with reporters. Mark Bunker, a former Clearwater City Council member and longtime critic of Scientology, remembers seeing Rinder in Clearwater after his time in the Hole. He had become so pale and gaunt and thin, Bunker said. Your reasoning has to be reshaped so much to have to put up with being in the Hole for two years before you finally break. Rinders escape In June 2007, at age 52, Rinder left the church. He wrote about fleeing during a trip to London with only a briefcase containing my passport, a few papers, a thumb drive and two cell phones. He snuck away to Central Florida, then Virginia and then Colorado. Fellow defectors helped him find housing and work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While he hoped his wife and children would come with him, they instead cut Rinder off, a practice known in the church as disconnecting. Tampa Bay Times reporters Joe Childs and Tom Tobin found Rinder while he was living in Colorado. Initially, he declined to be interviewed about his experiences. Then Scientology tracked down Rinder, too. Rinder wrote that the organization sent lawyers to threaten him and private investigators to keep track of his movements. They rented an apartment across from mine, in Westminster, Colorado, to watch me 24/7 through the windows with high-powered cameras and night-vision scopes, Rinder wrote in his book. They also took my trash and followed me around for $10,000 per week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After this, Rinder reported a determination to share his experiences in what would become The Truth Rundown series. He recounted physical and mental abuse he experienced, including the torture he suffered in the Hole. Rinder later moved to Florida, where he continued to speak out against the church, from interviews with the media to assisting the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The attacks on him also continued. Private investigators installed GPS trackers in his cars. Members of the church instructed my family members to send nasty letters to me implying I should kill myself. The church drew out his divorce to his first wife, Rinder explained, as long as the case was not resolved ... lawyers overseeing it could demand continuously updated financial info from me to see who was supporting me. I knew every move in the Hubbard Fair Game playbook, he wrote. Its a mind game. If they didnt succeed in getting into my head, I would win. Spreading the word When the HBO documentary Going Clear premiered in 2015, Rinders profile increased even more. He heard from former Scientologists, elected officials and celebrity defectors like Lisa Marie Presley and Leah Remini. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Remini asked him to help her with a show exposing the abuse shed witnessed in the church. Rinder became her co-host. Families torn apart. Children victimized. Women forced to have abortions. People defrauded. A literal trial of death and destruction, Rinder wrote. Many told us for the first time, we had personalized the abuses and given them real, believable faces. Despite legal threats and harassment, Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath ran for three seasons and won two Emmys. It really changed the way Scientology was perceived by the public, and it really helped to educate the press on how to talk about Scientology, said Tony Ortega, a journalist who runs the Scientology blog The Underground Bunker. I think it surprised everyone how much Mike Rinder became a star as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bunker said Rinder seemed much happier after he recovered from Scientology and dedicated himself to helping other people who had been abused. I think that was the healthiest thing he could have done, he said. Coming back to the real world was a really important thing for him to do and I think he got a lot of peace. Bunker recalled how Rinder helped members of local government understand the tactics used by Scientology. To have someone with inside knowledge on how David Miscavige operates and why they would do that was very important for our city manager and city attorney to understand, Bunker said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And after years of attacking journalists, Rinder became an ally to them. They spy on my wife. They spy on my mother. Theyve sent a private investigator to intimidate my mother. And one of the things was they tried to get my wife in trouble, Ortega said. When I told Mike, he was good enough to write a letter, saying look, this is the kind of operation they do, and I was able to send that to my wifes employer. The importance of family After leaving Scientology, Rinder married Christie Collbran. A fellow former Sea Org member, she understood what hed been through. They lived in Palm Harbor raising her son, Shane, and a child they had together, Jack. Before he died, Rinder wrote a statement for his family to share after his passing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I have been lucky living two lives in one lifetime, he said in his final blog post. The second one the most wonderful years anyone could wish for with all of you and my new family! When he wasnt working to expose abuse, Rinder sought comfort among others who had been through the same pain. Fellow defector and whistleblower Claire Headley, who has been friends with Rinder since 1991, was one of them. Like Rinder, she had been cut off by family members who stayed behind in Scientology. Rinder and Christie became her new siblings. He had this vision that our kids would grow up in a family of choice as cousins, and that is what weve done. Weve vacationed almost yearly with them, Headley said. Our kids are all the best of friends, and its a beautiful thing just to be able to have each other and to create this community. Rinder co-founded the Aftermath Foundation in 2018 as a way to support people trying to leave Scientology. He was a board member, participating in grant review, helping people with attorney connections, helping people get their money back from Scientology, said Headley, who now serves as the foundations president. It was a long list of advocacy work to help people getting out of Scientology get on their feet, who often have been so isolated from the outside world. Rinder never stopped thinking about the people he left behind. He began his book with a letter written to his children Taryn and Benjamin, who are still involved in the church. Since I escaped I have been shouting back over the wall, throwing notes tied around stones, and skywriting to anyone who may look up attempting to get the message through that there is a big, wide world out there. I hope you can discover the real world for yourselves, too, he wrote. No matter what you may think, it is never too late to start over. New Orleans attacker recorded visits to the city weeks earlier The U.S. Army veteran who deliberately plowed into New Year's revelers in New Orleans visited the city twice in the weeks before the attack and recorded video using Meta smart glasses, the FBI revealed Sunday. Shamsud-Din Jabbar also had the Meta glasses during his New Year's Day attack, but they were not activated for a livestream, and there was no indication he was recording the attack at all. He did record videos during the drive addressed to his family, in which he talked about plans to kill them and told them he had joined the Islamic State. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Saturday hundreds of New Orleanians gathered at City of Love Church to seek solace and understanding singing, shouting and praying. "Even though we're going through it, things will get better," Bishop Lester Love told the congregation. "The city is hurting, but it is also resilient." Experts warn that polarization in the United States and online is contributing to an increase in extremism. The online environment has algorithms that are set up to make you angry. And all that is playing into a perfect storm of factors that are leading to an increase in radicalization, said Seamus Hughes, a senior researcher and policy associate at the University of Nebraska Omaha. Major winter storm threatens the U.S. Tens of millions of people are under winter storm warnings, with heavy snow and bitter cold temperatures expected across the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kansas, Arkansas, Kentucky and Virginia declared states of emergency, and the National Weather Service warned of "considerable disruptions to daily life," including "dangerous or impossible driving conditions and widespread closures." Glenn Norkiewicz brushes snow off his vehicle in Old Louisville in Louisville, Ky., on Sunday. Temperatures are expected to drop 10 to 30 degrees below average through Friday across the Central and Eastern U.S. From Montana to Wisconsin, wind chills will plummet to between minus 25 and minus 35 degrees. Washington, D.C., was one of the major cities preparing for snowy and icy conditions into Monday, when Congress is meant to certify the presidential election results. "Whether we're in a blizzard or not, we're going to be in that chamber making sure this is done," said House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La. Follow along with NBC News live coverage here. Indie filmmaker Jeff Baena dead at 47 Jeff Baena in Park City, Utah, on Jan. 26, 2020. Jeff Baena, an independent writer-director known for movies like Life After Beth and I Heart Huckabees, died Friday at 47. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He died by suicide at a home, according to the Los Angeles County medical examiner's records. Baena had been married to actor Aubrey Plaza since 2021. The couple collaborated on several films, including Life After Beth in 2014, which Baena directed and Plaza starred in. Meet the Press Sen. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., said Sunday that the attack in New Orleans shows Kash Patel shouldn't be confirmed as President-elect Donald Trump's pick to lead the FBI. Schiff said on "Meet the Press" that the attack "underscores" the importance of an FBI director "that has experience, has judgment, that has character, that will prioritize defending the country against the violence we saw in New Orleans or the violence we saw on Jan. 6." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said that Patel's top priority is "political vendettas" and that the Senate shouldn't confirm someone "who believes in 'deep state' conspiracy thinking." You can watch the full interview here. Politics in brief The highest civilian award: President Joe Biden gave the Presidential Medal of Freedom to notable figures including Hillary Clinton, billionaire George Soros, actor Michael J. Fox, fashion icon Anna Wintour and Bill Nye the Science Guy. Carter's long goodbye: Jimmy Carters extended public farewell began Saturday in Georgia, with a procession and a private family service at the Carter Center ahead of Thursday's state funeral in Washington, D.C. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump's priorities: Speaker Johnson told House Republicans that Trump favors passing a single reconciliation bill, rather than two or more, which could be a blow to some GOP hard-liners. 47 & 16: Trump has a particular fixation on Abraham Lincoln, treating him as not only a giant of history but also something of a political contemporary (and a flawed one at that). TikTok ban: The Justice Department urged the Supreme Court to reject Trump's request to delay implementing a law that would effectively ban TikTok in the United States or force its sale by its Chinese parent company by Jan. 19. Hollywood gathers for the 82nd Golden Globes Host Nikki Glaser during the 82nd Annual Golden Globes held at The Beverly Hilton on Jan. 5, 2025 in Beverly Hills, Calif. Hollywood awards season officially kicked off Sunday night with the 82nd Golden Globe Awards, hosted by comedian Nikki Glaser who got rave reviews inside the auditorium. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FXs Shogun, a sweeping saga set in feudal Japan, took home four awards, including best drama series, making it the biggest small-screen winner of the night. Netflixs Emilia Perez, a genre-busting song-and-dance spectacle about a Mexican drug cartel boss who undergoes gender-affirming surgery, also took home four awards. Demi Moore delivered a powerful acceptance speech after she won her first major industry award for her role in The Substance. Thirty years ago I had a producer tell me that I was a popcorn actress, and at that time, I made that mean that this wasnt something I allowed to have, she said. A24s The Brutalist, a sweeping epic about the postwar immigrant experience, took home three awards, including best drama film and best actor to Adrien Brody. Here is the full list of winners. Follow along with NBC News' live coverage here. In case you missed it This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Milwaukee County Transit System President and Managing Director Denise Wandke has retired after a little more than a year in the agency's top spot, according to a press release from MCTS Monday. The Journal Sentinel reported Wandke had taken a leave of absence in October, shortly before the county entered into one of its toughest budget seasons as the transit agency dealt with major financial struggles and approached a looming fiscal cliff in the coming years. Denise Wandke has reitred from her position as Milwaukee County Transit System president and managing director In an Oct. 5 post on Wandke's Facebook account, she shared a picture of a motorhome with the caption: "I'm going to rough it and go camping ... let the next journey begin!" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wandke became president and managing director in May 2023 following the sudden retirement of former MCTS Managing Director Daniel Boehm. In the months before his departure from the agency, an employee called for an investigation into employment discrimination and retaliation under Boehm's leadership, according to records provided to the Journal Sentinel. The agency tapped Vice President and Deputy Director Julie Esch as interim managing director, after Wandke retired on Jan. 1. Esch joined MCTS in September 2023. She has served in a number of leadership positions with Milwaukee County and the State of Wisconsin Department of Transportation, according to the press release. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee County Transit System managing director steps down Sir Keir Starmer is standing by his Treasury minister amid a standards watchdog probe into her links with the deposed former prime minister of Bangladeshi. The prime minister has full confidence in Tulip Siddiq, who on Monday referred herself to ethics advisor Sir Laurie Magnus amid questions over her aunt Sheikh Hasina, who was removed from power after protests against her rule last year. His spokesman repeated Sir Keirs insistence that he is backing Ms Siddiq, whose job includes the responsibility for tackling financial crime, insisting that it is now for the independent advisor to establish the facts about her case. Tulip Siddiq is alleged to have been involved in brokering a 2013 deal with Russia for a nuclear power plant in Bangladesh in which large sums of cash were embezzled (PA) She has referred herself to the independent advisor to establish the facts of this case. She denies any wrongdoing, Sir Keirs official spokesman said. He has full confidence in her, but she has decided to take the decision to refer herself, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Questions have been swirling around Ms Siddiq since she was named in a probe launched by the new Bangladeshi governments anti-corruption commission. She is alleged to have helped her aunt siphon off 5.2bn intended to be used building eight large-scale projects including a nuclear power plant. Ms Siddiq referred herself to the watchdog after it emerged she was given a central London flat by a person connected with Ms Hasinas Awami League party, and that she lived in a property in Hampstead, north London, that was given to her sister for free by an ally of her aunts regime. The Sunday Times revealed that she had lived in the Hampstead property given to her then-teenage sister Azmina in 2009 by Moin Ghani, a Bangladeshi lawyer who has represented Ms Hasinas government and has been pictured with Ms Hasina. Ms Siddiq is also renting a 2.1m home in East Finchley owned by an executive member of the UK wing of Ms Hasinas Awami League. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Hasina, Bangladeshs longest-serving prime minister, is now in India after being ousted in August following weeks of violent anti-government protests. Ms Siddiq was living in a property given to her sister for free by an ally of her aunts regime (Facebook) She has been accused by the new Bangladeshi administration of corruption, as well as massacres, killings and crimes against humanity including the deaths of at least 800 protesters. Ms Siddiq is one of several family members alleged to have benefited from the corruption but denies wrongdoing. Speaking on Monday, Sir Keir confirmed she had referred herself to the standards advisor, who investigates potential breaches of the ministerial code and can advise the PM on sanctions for those in breach. The PM said: Tulip Siddiq has acted entirely properly by referring herself to the independent adviser, as she has now done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is why we brought in the new code, to allow ministers to ask the adviser to establish the facts. Yes, I have confidence in her and that is the process that will now be happening. Bangladeshs anti-corruption commission has launched a probe into Ms Siddiq, her UK-based mother Sheikh Rehana Siddiq, and her aunt Ms Hasina, who ruled the country for more than 15 years. Sheikh Hasina, the now deposed prime minister of Bangladesh and aunt of Siddiq, pictured during a 2014 visit to London (PA) The nuclear plant at the centre of the probe was built by Russian state-backed firm Rosatom, while the deal was signed in the Kremlin a decade ago in a ceremony attended by Ms Siddiq, her aunt and Vladimir Putin. The Conservatives have said it is high time for Tulip Siddiq to explain the source of her wealth, and whether any of it comes from the proceeds of her aunts alleged corrupt dealings. Shadow home secretary Chris Philp called for Sir Keir to suspend her from her anti-corruption brief until she has answered any outstanding questions about her aunts regime. MINNEAPOLIS (AP) Minneapolis approves police reform agreement with federal government in the wake of the 2020 murder of George Floyd. GUEST OPINION: The stereotype of the tortured artist has permeated the social consciousness for years, as one artist after another dedicated themselves to the condensation of the ephemeral to the aesthetic, dealing with dark themes and personal struggles all the while. CONTENT WARNING: This article mentions mental illness and suicide. Creativity in and of itself is a terrific outlet for emotional strife or turmoil, which is perhaps why so many artists, creators, and innovators were so talented. Sadly, the people on todays list are those who may have benefitted more from modern accessibility to mental health resources as their genius and historical significance were accompanied by great struggle. 1. Vincent Van Gogh Famous for his evocative, emotional artworks, Vincent Van Gogh is renowned for his distinctive painting style and is regarded as one of the most important post-impressionist painters. Van Gogh is one of the most famous artists in the world, and knowledge of his struggles with mental illness is widespread. The subject of several books, movies, and shows, Van Goghs struggles with mental illness are as famous as the artist himself, especially the incident of his cutting off his ear in a blind rage after an altercation with his friend Paul Gauguin. Van Gogh was plagued by numerous symptoms, but a lack of definitive evidence has prevented empirical diagnosis. The artist committed suicide at the age of 37 in 1890, shooting himself in the chest with a revolver. He died poor and unknown, his fame and critical acclaim only following after his death. 2. Virginia Woolf One of feminisms most iconic writers, Virginia Woolf, was known as a trailblazing, wickedly intelligent, and cutting writer. Part of the Bloomsbury Group, this cadre of intellectuals was instrumental in popularising opinions and public relations to various topics, including sexuality, feminism, criticism, aesthetics, and more. She was known for her stream-of-consciousness style of fiction and her prolific essays and campaigning for womens rights. Sadly, Virginia Woolf suffered from severe depression, and despite the ceaseless support of her husband, due to several primitive and inhumane treatments, the writer committed suicide in 1941, penning a final heart-wrenching farewell to her husband, Leonard Woolf. 3. Sylvia Plath Another key name in the world of literature, Sylvia Plath, was a prolific writer. Having written scores of poems, Sylvia Plath is one of the most celebrated post-war poets in the world. Her poems explore a range of themes, including her mental struggles, her tumultuous relationship with her husband, her self-image, and her troubling relationship with her parents. Plagued by depression, trapped in an abusive marriage, and saddled with the sole care of two young children after her husbands infidelity, Sylvia Plath tragically committed suicide via gas poisoning in 1963 at the age of 30. One month after the release of her only novel, The Bell Jar, Plath carefully sealed the room to prevent her children from breathing the fumes of the oven she used to poison herself. 4. Nikola Tesla Obscure both in life and death, Nikola Teslas name has been vastly overshadowed by his contemporary and mentor-turned-rival Thomas Edison. Although Edison is credited with the lightbulb, it is Teslas AC technology that powers most of the world, and Tesla was vastly ahead of his time, experimenting with microwaves, wireless communications, and robotics. Sadly, the genius was burdened by tragedy. Tesla may have suffered from hallucinations from the young age of 5, after tragically witnessing his brother being trampled to death by a horse, which some accounts attribute to Tesla spooking the horse without understanding the dangers of such an action. After the death of his brother, his parents were often cold and distant despite his achievements. Tesla also suffered from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and, as such, displayed several eccentricities. He would only stay in hotel rooms with a number divisible by 3, was averse to women who wore earrings, had to walk around a building three times before he was able to enter it, and used 18 napkins at meal times. He was struck by a car on his way back to a hotel and, after refusing a doctors treatment, died in 1937. 5. Winston Churchill Moving from the literature and arts circles to the political sphere, few names are as evocative as Winston Churchill. British prime minister during WWII, passionate and determined politician, and sensitive and charismatic writer, Churchhill was a public political leader during one of the most tempestuous times in the worlds history. Yet he met the challenge with courage, dedication, and the utmost fury. He was known as a tireless worker and a man of steadfast conviction. Yet behind his public life was a much deeper battle. Suffering at length from depression, it is believed that Churchill suffered from Bipolar Disorder. The condition would explain his manic writing episodes, having penned 43 novels and a wealth of articles in his lifetime. After his death, his personal papers weighed several tonnes. At home, he would often become morose, shedding the brave visage he displayed in public and at work. He famously referred to this depressive state as his black dog. 6. Ludwig van Beethoven The German musician Ludwig van Beethoven revolutionised music. Born in 1770, Beethoven received music tutelage from a young age and escaped his toxic and dysfunctional home life by teaching music to the children of Helene von Breuning when he was approximately 13 years old. Tragically suffering from increasing deafness throughout his life, Beethoven still created music up to the end of his life, even though he lamented the loss of his ability to hear and, therefore fully engaged with his passion. As Beethoven began to suffer more and more with his deafness, his live performances and rate of composition decreased dramatically. He began to suffer from suicidal ideation, writing, I joyfully hasten to meet death for will it not deliver me from endless suffering? Eventually, after composing a final series of compositions from 1817 - 1827, Beethoven succumbed to pneumonia, which was exacerbated by liver scarring caused by his alcohol dependency. He died in 1827. This article highlights the profound impact of mental health struggles on the lives and legacies of six historical figures. Their stories underscore the critical need for accessible mental health resources, reminding us that the brilliance often celebrated in history was frequently accompanied by immense personal suffering. Whether youre a practising psychiatrist, psychology graduate or enrolled in a Graduate Certificate in Mental Health online, the talent and tragedy of these historic figures encourage a broader dialogue on the intersection of creativity and mental health challenges. MINNEAPOLIS (AP) The Minneapolis City Council on Monday approved an agreement with the federal government to overhaul the city's police training and use-of-force policies in the wake of the murder of George Floyd. The deal incorporates and builds on changes the Minneapolis Police Department has made since Floyd, a Black man, was killed by a white officer in 2020, prompting a national reckoning with police brutality and racism. The 171-page agreement, filed in federal court shortly after the council voted 12-0 to approve it, says the department will require its officers to promote the sanctity of human life as the highest priority in their activities." It says officers must carry out their law enforcement duties with professionalism and respect for the dignity of every person." And it says they must not allow race, gender or ethnicity to influence any decision to use force, including the amount or type of force used. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agreement, known as a consent decree, will put the department under long-term court supervision. It had been under negotiation since the Department of Justice issued a scathing critique of the citys police in June 2023. Department officials alleged that police engaged in systematic racial discrimination, violated constitutional rights and disregarded the safety of people in custody for years before Floyd was killed. The report was the result of a sweeping two-year investigation that confirmed many citizen complaints about police conduct. It found that Minneapolis officers used excessive force, including unjustified deadly force, and violated the rights of people engaged in constitutionally protected speech. George Floyds death was not just a tragedy, it was a galvanizing force for the city and for the nation," Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke, head of the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division, said at a news conference. "All eyes remain on Minneapolis, and with this consent decree, we now have a roadmap for reform that will help this community heal while strengthening trust between law enforcement and the people they serve. An independent monitor will oversee the changes and a judge must approve them. A hearing has not yet been scheduled, but officials hope that approval comes quickly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his first administration, President-elect Donald Trump was critical of consent decrees as anti-police. Finalizing the Minneapolis agreement before he returns to office Jan. 20 would make it harder for him to undercut the deal, because changes would require court approval. Clarke declined to predict how vigorously the incoming administration will or won't try to enforce the consent decree. The council's brief public vote followed an hourslong closed-door discussion. Id like to thank our community for standing together, united in this, and for having patience with us as we have traveled a very, very long and challenging journey," Council President Elliott Payne said after the vote. "Were just beginning, and we know we have a long way to go. Our success will only be realized when we all work together on what is arguably one of the most important issues in the life of our city. Council member Robin Wonsley said in a statement before the vote that she has no faith that the Trump administration will be a serious partner" in implementing the agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Having a federal consent decree signed and in place is valuable to police reform efforts, but we need to be sober about the fact that it will take local political will to hold the city and the (Mayor Jacob) Frey administration accountable to implementing and enforcing the terms of the consent decree, she said. A state court judge in 2023 approved a similar agreement between Minneapolis and the Minnesota Department of Human Rights after the state agency issued its own blistering report in 2022. The state investigation found that the city's police had engaged in a pattern of race discrimination for at least a decade. The Justice Department has opened 12 similar investigations of state and local law enforcement agencies since April 2021, many in response to high-profile deaths at the hands of police. Assuming court approval, Clarke said, the department will be enforcing 16 policing pattern and practices settlements across the country. She said 30 years of experience shows that they lead to important and tangible progress toward better, safer, and lawful policing. The department has reached agreements with Seattle, New Orleans, Baltimore, Chicago and Ferguson, Missouri. A consent decree with Louisville, Kentucky, after an investigation prompted by the fatal police shooting of Breonna Taylor is waiting court approval. In Memphis, Tennessee, the mayor last month pushed back against pressure for a consent decree there, saying his city has made hundreds of positive changes since the beating death of Tyre Nichols. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Consent decrees require law enforcement to meet specific goals before federal oversight is removed, a process that often takes years and millions of dollars. A major reason Minneapolis hired Brian OHara as police chief in 2022 was his experience implementing a consent decree in Newark, New Jersey. O'Hara noted that the city would be the first in the country to operate under both federal and state consent decrees. He said they showed in Newark that consent decrees can lead to meaningful change. We are not going to just comply with its terms, but we will exceed expectations and we will make change real for people on the street," the chief said. Together, we will make Minneapolis a place where everyone feels safer, and they know that Minneapolis cops will have their back. The mayor told reporters that officers will rise to the occasion. I trust the members of this department to show up every day, that you will be committed to being the change reflected in this agreement, Frey said. You have the ability, you have the obligation, and you have the responsibility to set the tone. Show the rest of the country, in fact, the rest of the world, what good constitutional policing looks like." A Minneapolis woman and infant were killed and 10 others were injured when a van hauling a trailer overturned on a Kansas highway Thursday, triggering a two-vehicle crash, authorities said. The Kansas Highway Patrol said the van was traveling southbound on Interstate-35 in Sumner County, south of Wichita, when it overturned and was subsequently struck by another southbound vehicle. Ernestina Eumana Alvarez, 58 and Christian Gutierrez, a newborn baby, both from Minneapolis, died in the collision. Courtesy of GoFundMe. Seven of the van's occupants were injured, including a 55-year-old Circle Pines man and a 63-year-old Minneapolis man who the patrol said were outside of the van when the collision occurred. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both of those men were suspected to have serious injuries, according to the crash report. A 67-year-old woman, 47-year-old Richfield man and 27-year-old Rosa Gutierrez, who family identified as the infant's mother, were also taken to the hospital with serious injuries. A one-year-old Minneapolis boy and 64-year-old Richfield woman suffered minor injuries, the patrol said. The three occupants of the Jeep Grand Cherokee involved in the crash, a 63-year-old Kansas man, 61-year-old Okahoma man and a 23-year-old Kansas woman, were each suspected to have minor injuries, according to the crash report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The patrol has not indicated what caused the van to overturn. According to the family, Rosa Gutierrez remains in critical condition. A GoFundMe campaign has been created to support her medical expenses, as well as return the bodies of the two victims to their hometown in Mexico. Minnesota State Capitol. Courtesy of Minnesota House Public Information Services. Hopes for bipartisan comity at the state Capitol this year forced upon the Minnesota House by the voters, who sent 67 Democrats and 67 Republicans to the Capitol are already crashing. House Democrats are mulling not showing up for the first two weeks of the legislative session to prevent the chamber from achieving a 68-member quorum, according to lobbyists whove spoken to members and confirmed by two DFL legislative sources. Doing so would effectively shut down the House as Democrats seek to block Republicans from using their temporary, 1-seat advantage to elect a GOP House speaker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The gambit would attract national media attention and likely lead to a political and legal firestorm. State Rep. Melissa Hortman, DFL-Brooklyn Park, the Democratic-Farmer-Labor leader, declined to comment except to say that House Democrats want a power sharing agreement weve spent 60 days negotiating, and wed like Republicans to honor their agreement. Sixty-seven is not a majority. The backstory: Republicans took a temporary 67-66 advantage when DFL Rep.-elect Curtis Johnson resigned his District 40B seat late last month after a district judge determined he didnt meet the legal residency requirement. Gov. Tim Walz has called a special election for Jan. 28 to replace Johnson. Given the deep blue makeup of the Roseville-area 40B District, Democrats are expected to keep the seat. (Republicans sued Walz over the weekend, arguing the election must be at least 22 days after the beginning of the legislative session, which begins Jan. 14.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Until a Democrat wins 40B, Republicans have a one-seat advantage and are poised to elect their House leader Rep. Lisa Demuth, R-Cold Spring, as the new speaker, when the Legislature convenes next week. Although Republicans need 68 votes to pass laws, they can install a speaker with 67, and Democrats wont be able to remove her even after the 40B special election brings the House back into a tie assuming Republicans stick together as a caucus. Democrats are considering their own maneuver: By not showing up, they can prevent the 68 members required for a quorum to do business. Article 3, Section 13 of the Minnesota Constitution requires that a majority of each house i.e., 68 House members constitutes a quorum to transact business. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two Capitol lobbyists, who were granted anonymity because theyre not authorized to speak publicly, said House Democrats are saying all options are on the table. Two Democratic legislative sources confirmed that the quorum idea is among the options being considered. On the downside, Democrats especially first-year members might have a hard time explaining to constituents why they are absent for two weeks during the legislative session. If Democrats are absent, Republicans could use robust measures to force Democrats to appear. The Minnesota Constitution, in requiring 68 members for a quorum, says a smaller number may compel the attendance of absent members in the manner and under the penalties it may provide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans say absent Democrats would also be subject to recall petitions for so-called nonfeasance, or as the statute reads, the intentional, repeated failure of a state officer to perform specific acts that are required duties of the officer. In this case, showing up at the Legislature could be considered a required duty of the office. Republicans dispute Democrats interpretation of the constitutions quorum rule. The Minnesota Constitution does not set 68 as the quorum. On January 14, there will be (at most) 133 members of the Minnesota House, so a quorum is 67 members, wrote Rep. Harry Niska, R-Ramsey, on X. Democrats are also considering a de facto filibuster, eating up clock for the first two weeks of the session, preventing a vote on speakership until the special election brings the chamber back into 67-67 balance. Aside from Demuth winning the speakership and the pomp and privileges it carries, Republicans in the current composition would also be able to claim committee chairmanships, rather than sharing them with Democrats, as had been previously agreed to during power-sharing negotiations in which Demuth and Hortman have been engaged since the November election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A major concern for Democrats is the status of Rep.-elect Brad Tabke, who won a Shakopee-area district by 14 votes. Republicans challenged the election results over 20 missing ballots that were accidentally discarded, and a judge is expected to issue a ruling soon. Regardless of the judiciary ruling, however, the Minnesota Constitution gives the House and Senate the power to seat members and rule on election contests: Each house shall be the judge of the election returns and eligibility of its own members. The Legislature shall prescribe by law the manner for taking evidence in cases of contested seats in either house. The statute the Legislature crafted to deal with disputed elections specifically says a majority of the votes given decides the issue. (Emphasis added.) In other words, only needing a majority of votes rather than a majority of the 134-member House, Republicans could refuse to seat Tabke with their 1-vote temporary advantage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In that case, Republicans still would not be able to pass any laws without a 68-seat majority, but theyd retain their 1-seat advantage, at least temporarily. By refusing to seat Tabke, Republicans could pressure Walz into calling a special election in that district, which would give Republicans a chance at an actual 68-vote majority. Refusing to provide a quorum has been a common tactic in recent political history, perhaps owing to the nations increasing polarization. Texas Democrats hopped on a plane to Washington, D.C. in 2021 to prevent Republicans there from enacting laws Democrats deemed gross violations of voting rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oregon Republicans have also used the tactic, though with at-times disastrous results. Another Republican famously sought to prevent a quorum, though he was a Whig at the time: Abraham Lincoln went out a window of Illinois temporary legislative chambers in 1840 to prevent a quorum and block Democrats from passing a bill that threatened the state bank. As Snopes reported, While Lincolns escape was dramatic, it was not successful. The quorum stood and the legislation was approved. Reformer Deputy Editor Max Nesterak contributed reporting. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE WATERTOWN, Conn. (WTNH) Fifty-two women will battle it out on stage to see who will be the next Miss America Sunday night. Connecticuts contestant is Monica Fenwick from Watertown. Shes a UConn graduate and recently earned her Masters degree in Speech and Language Pathology. Fenwick says shes excited for what the night has in store and she cant wait to demonstrate for the judges and audience why she should be the next Miss America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think communication, now more than ever, is very essential to making a more unified country.. and thats where my experience as a speech pathologist comes in and my community service initiative, that I can promote across the whole country, said Fenwick. You can stream the pageant now on the Miss America Youtube. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jennaleah Jenna Hin, 17, of Henderson, Nevada, was reported missing since Dec. 30 after she reportedly left home following a family dispute At a press conference held on Jan. 3, her parents pleaded for her to return home Authorities said a body that matched the missing girl was found in a desert area on Jan. 5 Authorities announced that a body found in Nevada matches the description of a 17-year-old girl who was reported missing last week. In a news release shared on Sunday, Jan. 5, the City of Henderson, Nevada, said that police responded that day over a dead body found in the desert area east of Desert Sunflower Circle and Spanish Needle Street around 10:42 a.m., local time. When they arrived, they discovered a "deceased female." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The female matches the description of Jennaleah Jenna Hin, who was reported missing/endangered on December 30, 2024, the city said. Henderson Detectives responded to the scene and based on preliminary investigations, there does not appear to be signs of foul play. Officials added that the name of the victim would be released by the Clark County Coroners Office pending notification of next of kin. MissingPeopleInAmerica/Facebook Jennaleah Jenna Hin went missing on Dec. 30 and was believed to have been found dead on Sunday, Jan. 5. Jennaleah Jenna Hin went missing on Dec. 30 and was believed to have been found dead on Sunday, Jan. 5. Related: Man Was Missing for a Month in National Park, but His Mom Never Lost Hope. Then He Was Found Alive (Exclusive) Hin was a senior at Foothill High School, the Las Vegas Review-Journal and NBC affiliate KSNV reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both outlets reported that Hin left her home in Henderson in the early evening hours of Dec. 30 following a family dispute. You dont have to worry about me anymore, Hin said something to that effect at the time she departed home, according to Mark Speer of the nonprofit search group Red Rock Search and Rescue, the Las Vegas Review-Journal added. At the time of her disappearance, Hin did not have a phone or money on her, family members said, according to CBS affiliate KLAS. Facebook Jennaleah Jenna Hin Jennaleah Jenna Hin Related: 30-Year-Old Woman Missing Since Christmas Eve Found Dead in Frozen Lake: 'Heartbreaking Accident' At a press conference held on Friday, Jan. 3 by Hins parents, Red Rock Search and Rescue and police asked for the publics help to find the missing teen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jenna, wherever you are or whoever youre with, I just want you to come home, said Hins mother, Jennifer Swanson, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported. I want you safe. We love you so much please come home. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. I just want to say, I love you, and we just want you back, added Hins stepfather, Corey Swanson, Our home is broken without you. The search for Hin involved helicopters, drones, K-9s, horses, and even volunteers from the community and Foothill High School students, according to KSNV. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Missing Teen Likely Found Dead After Brother Tried to Save Him When Kayak Overturned During Hunting Trip "It's every parent's worst nightmare. Not knowing where your child is," said Donna Oliva, whose husband is a friend of Hin's father, told KSNV. "I'd rather be able to try and help and give them answers than sit at home and not do anything." The City of Hendersons news release added that no further details will be released as the investigation is open. Anyone with information related to the case should call the Henderson Police Department at 702-267-4911 or Crime Stoppers at 702-385-5555. On Jan. 5, Swanson shared a photo of her daughter on Facebook and captioned the post: Jenna, I love you...Where are you, who are you with, who has you, please come home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PEOPLE contacted Swanson on Monday, Jan. 6, for comment. Read the original article on People A missing photographer was found dead on an Oregon beach three weeks after he left his home to take photos of the high tide, deputies said. Joseph Joe Neill was discovered at about 9:25 a.m. Jan. 5 on a beach area off Haynes Inlet, the Coos County Sheriffs Office said in a Facebook post. Authorities recovered his body, and his wife identified him from his belt, glasses, and his giant 14 AAA shoes, the family said on a Facebook page called JoeStrong. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes on all of our minds all of the time, so acknowledging him is something we are all grateful for. Take Monday to go on an adventure with someone you love, appreciate Creation, and honor him, his family wrote. Joseph Joe Neills family looked for him in Coos County, Oregon, after he never returned home. His vehicle was found Dec. 16. What happened to Neill? Neill was last seen the morning of Dec. 15, McClatchy News reported from police. He was headed toward Horsefall Beach to snap photos of the king tide, which was caused by the recent full moon. But when he never returned home, his wife grew worried and reported him missing, police said. Police said they began searching for him and tracked his phone to a railroad bridge that runs across Coos Bay and is off Trans Pacific Lane. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neills phone was later analyzed, and police discovered he had been on the bridge at 10:14 a.m. It is believed that Mr. Neill likely entered the water from the bridge, though it remains unclear whether this was the result of a fall or a deliberate action, police said. His family said they believe whatever happened was likely an accident. Family and community grieve Neills family with the help of community members searched for him for weeks after search efforts were called off by police. His family is keeping his business, the Electric Hospital, open after his death. He sold sewing machines and vacuums. Our family is brokenhearted at my brother, Joes death. We are grateful to all the people that spent so many hours/days looking for him. Finding his body is a blessing in that it helps with closure, his brother Jim Neill said in a Facebook post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was a class act, a true gentleman and such an asset to our community. He will be dearly missed but forever remembered. Praying for peace in your hearts and souls, Leslie Davis Barnts commented on Facebook. We shared many stories about our familys, while out in nature taking photos!! He was so proud of his children and his wife, Jeremiah Jewell said. Such a loss for our entire community, especially those who sew. All my sewing machines, tables, sergers ect. were purchased from Joe. He patiently taught me how to use each one and troubleshoot my serger years ago. What a patient guy! Vicki Phillips Ericson wrote. Coos County is on the southern Oregon coastline. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cops follow snowy footprints into Michigan woods to find man who got lost after crash Climber trying to scale icy Mount Whitney missing nearly a week, California cops say Mom disappeared in 2014 while running errands, Florida cops say. Her bodys now found Authorities believe they have found the body of a 17-year-old boy who went missing on a duck hunting trip with his 19-year-old brother in Northern California last month nearly a week after the older brother's remains were recovered. The Butte County Sheriffs Office said the body presumably belonging to Wesley Cornett, 17, was found on Sunday, Jan. 5, in the Thermalito Afterbay, according to FOX affiliate KTXL, ABC affiliate KXTV and NBC affiliate KCRA. We believe it is the remaining missing duck hunter and we are in the process of positively identifying him through DNA analysis, authorities said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PEOPLE reached out to the sheriff's office on Monday, Jan. 6, for comment. Related: 30-Year-Old Woman Missing Since Christmas Eve Found Dead in Frozen Lake: 'Heartbreaking Accident' On Dec. 16, the Butte County Sheriffs Office (BCSO) shared in a news release that they were looking for two duck hunters, ages 17 and 19, who went missing over the weekend. Officials later identified the missing hunters as the Cornett brothers. The following day, ABC affiliate KRCR reported that authorities had shifted their efforts to a recovery operation. Butte County Sheriff's Office he Butte County Sheriff's office had been searching for missing brothers Wesley Cornett, 17, and Andruw Cornett, 19, at the Thermalito Afterbay near Oroville, CA he Butte County Sheriff's office had been searching for missing brothers Wesley Cornett, 17, and Andruw Cornett, 19, at the Thermalito Afterbay near Oroville, CA Related: Missing Mom Found Dead After Going to North Carolina for Her Birthday, Family Claims Boyfriend Left Her There Alone Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then, on Dec. 31, 2024, the BCSO confirmed that Andruw's body had been found on the north side of the Thermalito Afterbay while his brother remained missing. At approximately 9:30 a.m., the BCSO pilot [flying in the area] spotted a body in the north side of the Afterbay, within the original search area, the sheriff's office said in a statement. The BCSO Marine Unit and Butte County Sheriffs Search and Rescue immediately responded and recovered the body. The decedent has been positively identified as Andruw Cornett, and next-of-kin has been notified. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Authorities earlier said Andruw and Wesley went missing after Wesley overturned on a kayak and the other one swam into the water to try and help in the Afterbay on Dec. 14. Andruw then called 911 to report what happened and said that he was going into the water to save Wesley. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Body Matching Description of Missing Retired Teacher, 84, Found in New Jersey Creek: Worst News Possible The two teens did not have life jackets on at the time, authorities added. In a GoFundMe established when the brothers were still missing, April Clark, the boys mother, wrote, Andruw is a hero in my eyes. Im asking for help I drive 45 miles out everyday to search for my boys and some family is staying out there every night. The Sheriff is saying this is now a search and recovery so i will have to also plan to lay my two boys to rest. She added, "This is a freak accident that my family and I are trying to wrap our heads around and we also have 4 girls at home who we still need to care for." Read the original article on People Legislation in Missouri would allow gas, water and sewer companies to use future projections rather than past costs to set customers' rates (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector). Utility companies could base customers rates on projected expenses rather than actual costs under legislation critics worry would increase Missourians bills. Several bills prefiled ahead of the Missouri General Assemblys legislative session, which starts Wednesday, would apply the new ratemaking standard to gas, water and sewer but not electric utilities. Lawmakers considered similar bills last year, but they did not make it to final passage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Currently, utilities rely on audited past expenses called a test year to set rates. Supporters of the legislation say using a historic test year means the information used to set customers rates is dated. A future test year, they argue, uses more current information. Just as a business or even the state of Missouri plans with the budgeting looking ahead, this method allows regulators to set rates based on updated information, Sen. Mike Cierpiot, a Lees Summit Republican, said in a committee hearing last year. Cierpiot, who has again filed a bill mandating use of a future test year, did not return requests for comment. Critics say it would inflate Missouri utility bills. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Essentially, its an accounting trick by monopoly utilities to take a little extra money out of your pocket, John Coffman, an attorney for the Consumers Council of Missouri, said in an interview this week. Coffman estimated utility rates could climb by more than 10% under the legislation. During the same hearing last year, Coffman called the legislation anti-consumer and said it amounted to a rate increase piece of legislation. For-profit utility companies in Missouri are highly regulated because of their status as a monopoly. Every few years, they propose new rates to the Missouri Public Service Commission, which must sign off before companies change prices. Staff of the Public Service Commission, along with consumer and environmental advocates, are allowed to analyze the requested change and voice their opinions. Public hearings are held before the new rates can go into effect. The Public Service Commissions counterpart, the Kansas Corporation Commission, said Kansas utilities are not permitted to use future test years and it was not aware of any effort in the Kansas Legislature to change that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rate-setting process, supporters of the future test year legislation argue, should look ahead to upcoming expenses, not to past costs. Christine Page, director of government and external affairs for Missouri American Water, said in a committee hearing last year that using a future test year would make for a more collaborative process. Page said if Missouri American Water, which provides water to 1.6 million Missouri residents, were planning to invest in its infrastructure, stakeholders would be able to give input ahead of construction about how much is appropriate for the utility to spend. Of the 13 states where American Water operates, Page said, nine use a future test year in ratemaking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement Friday, the companys spokeswoman, Christie Barnhart, called the legislation vital to addressing the critical water and wastewater infrastructure needs of our state. These bills would allow for a more aggressive replacement of aging infrastructure before it has outlived its useful life, which is both more efficient from a cost standpoint and reduces service interruptions to the customer, Barnhart said. Jason Merrill, a spokesman for Spire Missouri, which serves gas customers in both Kansas City and St. Louis, said the company supports the legislation. Rather than rates being set on dated financial information, this would allow utilities to plan budgets in real time and regulators to set rates based on more current data, Merrill said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But that regulatory lag, Coffman said, is good for consumers. He argues its an incentive for utilities to keep their costs down. With a future test year, Coffman said, the incentives flip. The incentives become like a government where they have a budget, and if you dont spend it, you lose itso it flips the incentives from one that encourages cost control and cost management to one where the incentives are to spend all the money you can, he said. Ameren Missouri, which provides both electricity and gas service to Missouri customers, said in a statement that it supported the idea of a future test year. Currently several large new users of electricity that could provide thousands of jobs and billions of dollars of investment are considering Missouri as a place to locate, Amerens vice president of regulatory affairs, Warren Wood, said. To seize on these economic development opportunities and to continue to be a leader in reliable and affordable electricity, new generation plants are critically needed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bill is one of several introduced for the coming session that could affect utility rates. Another would allow utilities to start charging customers for new electric generation facilities that are still under construction. Last year, Senate Majority Leader Cindy OLaughlin filed legislation meant to stop mandatory time-of-use pricing for electric utilities after Evergy rolled out new rates that quadrupled in price during times of peak power demand. In a statement, OLaughlin didnt take a position on the test year legislation. Utility policy is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of both the needs of consumers and the challenges utilities face in providing reliable service, she said. KANSAS CITY, Mo. The Missouri State Highway Patrol has updated their totals for incidents caused by Winter Storm Blair on Sunday Night. According to MSHP, theyve responded to 2084 calls related to the severe weather. MAPS: Traffic and road conditions across the Kansas City metro Of those 2084 calls, 1043 were for stranded motorists, 356 were for crashes, 31 injuries and one fatality. MSHP put out the numbers on social media and confirmed that these were the totals as of 8 p.m. on January 5. MSHP also says theyd like to thank the Missouri National Guard for their assistance in responding to the calls above. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. MOBILE, Ala. (WKRG) Officers with the Mobile Police Department are searching for a man they say assaulted a shoe store employee and stole her cellphone. Mobile Police arrest man suspected of arson following house fire on Belsaw Avenue According to an MPD news release, officers were called to the Shoe Station store on Hillcrest Road around 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 4 for a report of a robbery. INCIDENT LOCATION: When officers arrived, they said they found that a man had attacked an employee while stealing her phone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man allegedly had unpaid items in his hands but dropped the items during the attack. He only left with the employees cellphone, according to police. Man injured in shooting near local hospital, Mobile Police Department investigating This is an active investigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. COMPANY NEWS: Defence veteran owned and sovereign Australian technology company UBH Group has announced that it has achieved a landmark milestone as the first organisation in the Southern Hemisphere to secure ISO 19443 certification. Sovereign technology leader becomes first company in the Southern Hemisphere to earn ISO 19443 Certification for nuclear supply chain excellence UBH says this internationally recognised standard underscores its commitment to safety, quality, and excellence in the nuclear supply chain, which will be critical to the success of AUKUS. UBH is calling on Australias small to medium enterprises (SMEs) to begin their own certification journeys, crucial for supporting the nations ambitious nuclear agenda, including the rotational presence at HMAS Stirling of, one UK and up to 4 US, nuclear-powered submarines to be known as Submarine Rotational Force - West (SRF-West), notes UBH. There are gaps in Australia's current supply chain ecosystem that do not align with international nuclear standards. Unless these gaps are bridged Australian companies will not be capable of supporting the nation's AUKUS initiatives and broader defence goals. ISO 19443 ensures rigorous quality management tailored for organisations supplying products and services to nuclear facilities, enabling UBH to take a leading role in supporting Australias nuclear development efforts. Achieving ISO 19443 certification is an important step that allows us to begin to support the nuclear supply chain here in Australia. Everything from nuclear reactor components down to the adhesives and bolts used around them requires an extra level of diligence, said UBH Co-founder and CEO Jeff Batten. We have a lot of work to do in order to be prepared for SRF-West.ISO 19443 certification takes 12 to 18 months, and SRF-West is due to take place in 2027, he said. Those submarines will need a supply chain to maintain them, and right now we are not ready. We need the entire supply chain to mobilise and align with this international standard to ensure Australias readiness. Mark Schneider, UBHs Chief Nuclear Officer and a seasoned nuclear engineer with decades of experience in the US Navy, emphasised the certificationsbroader implications. This accomplishment is not just about UBH. Its about inspiring Australias SMEs to rise to the challenge and engage in the global nuclear supply chain, he said. From adhesives to specialised tools, every component matters in creating a safe, efficient, and world-class nuclear ecosystem. UBH FOOTNOTE: Since its inception in 2020, UBH has emerged as a trailblazer in sovereign capabilities, doubling its workforce and significantly increasing revenue. This certification marks another milestone as UBH helps lay the foundation for Australias nuclear future. Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean believes the current energy and humanitarian crisis in the breakaway region of Transnistria is being orchestrated by Russian authorities to exert pressure on Ukraine. Source: Recean during a crisis briefing in Chisinau on Saturday, 6 January, as reported by a European Pravda correspondent Details: Recean began his address by thanking Ukraine and its armed forces for protecting Moldova and Europe. He emphasised that the current energy crisis in Transnistria has been artificially created, pointing out that the regions de facto authorities have shown no interest in receiving support despite the worsening situation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote: "Chisinau offered assistance, but the offer was rejected because Russia needs an artificially created humanitarian crisis Russia controls Transnistria, and they dont let anyone help the region." More details: Recean elaborated on previous government statements identifying the energy crisis as part of Russia's broader strategy. Quote: "Russia's goal is to create instability in the region and, most importantly, to influence the elections in Moldova scheduled for autumn. Their aim is to secure a pro-Russian government, which would ultimately help them consolidate their military presence [illegally stationed in Moldova ed.] and later use this leverage, including against Ukraine." Background: Earlier, Dorin Recean outlined a scenario for the reintegration of Transnistria into the rest of Moldova. Support UP or become our patron! The Moldovan government insists that the goal of Transnistria's transition to Chisinau's control remains unchanged, especially against the backdrop of the crisis created by Russia in the region. Source: Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean during a crisis briefing on 6 January in Chisinau, as reported by European Pravda Details: Recean stressed that the country's authorities have not abandoned the goal of full reintegration of Transnistria. However, he thinks this plan should begin with the Russian troops illegally deployed there withdrawing from the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote from Dorin Recean: "Our goal is the reintegration of the country, which should start with Russia withdrawing its troops, which allows us to administer the region properly. We want a peaceful resolution of the conflict, which begins with the withdrawal of troops." More details: Recean insists that independent peacekeepers should replace the Russians. Recean explained that the second reintegration step is "the introduction of an international peacekeeping contingent, after which we [the country's constitutional authorities] will start providing services." The Moldovan PM stressed that until these points are fulfilled, the government will continue "remote" reintegration by allowing Transnistrians to use the opportunities available to other citizens. Quote from Dorin Recean: "We are trying to integrate [Transnistrians] into the structure of social services, into our business environment, into our market, so that they can export products to the EU and so on just like the rest of Moldova. We are doing our best under the conditions when we cannot provide law enforcement or governance in this region. But our goal is the full and peaceful reintegration of Transnistria. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More details: The PM stressed one more time that withdrawing Russian troops should be the first step in this process. Background: Earlier, the Moldovan government said that the energy crisis in Transnistria is part of the Russian large-scale plan. Moldova has also summoned a Russian diplomat for disseminating misinformation about the causes of the energy crisis in Transnistria. Support UP or become our patron! A potential, major legal battle is brewing on Beacon Hill. The State Auditor is squaring off against the House Speaker and Senate President for the right to audit the legislature. A measure voters approved in November. And, another deadline in this debate lands on Monday. If theres nothing to hide, then open up the books, let the sunshine in, and lets look and make sure that we are able to identify potential challenges, said State Auditor Diana DiZoglio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DiZoglio says she is ready to open the books and the audit of the Massachusetts state legislature after nearly 72% of voters in the Commonwealth called for in passing of Question 1 on the ballot in November. But leaders at the State House have pushed back citing separation of powers. These are taxpayer dollars. Its important that we are able to view financial receipts, state contracts, procurement procedures, DiZoglio said. As well as the governments use of NDAs or non-disclosure agreements. DiZoglio sent a letter to Senate President Karen Spilka and House Speaker Ron Mariano asking them to prepare to cooperate and respond by Monday. The law tied to Question 1 took effect officially on Friday, January 3rd. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That legislative leaders will finally start to cooperate with the Office of State auditor for an audit that every other state entity receives to help make government work better, DiZoglio said during an interview. Boston 25 News reached out to Spilka and Mariano. Their offices said they have received the letter and are reviewing it. DiZoglio believes its clear that lawmakers should abide by the law. The legislature is not above the law, she said. State leaders have suggested identifying an independent firm to conduct the audit. DiZoglio believes that is lawmakers attempt to control it. She says if State House leaders dont cooperate, her office will be pursuing litigation and court action through the Attorney Generals office. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW At least 24 people have been killed in the latest attacks carried out by the Israeli military in the Gaza Strip, the Palestinian news agency WAFA reported on Sunday, citing medical sources. Three people were killed in an attack in Bureij camp and there were deaths and injuries in the Nuseirat refugee camp and in the area around Khan Yunis, it said. The Israeli military said it had attacked terrorists in a Hamas command centre in the Khan Yunis area. It had also hit a fighter who was attacking from the humanitarian zone in Deir al-Balah, it said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The information from both sides could not initially be independently verified. Israel has been waging war on Gaza since the Hamas-led October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel in which 1,200 people were killed and some 250 abducted to Gaza. Much of the Gaza Strip has since been rendered uninhabitable amid the fighting and more than 45,800 people have been killed according to Palestinian estimates. A total of 363 people were injured by fireworks in Berlin during New Year celebrations, fuelling the debate about a possible ban on the pyrotechnics in Germany. Of those injured, 52 were hospitalised, according to Health Senator Ina Czyborra of the capital's Committee for Health and Care. One person suffered severe facial burns after a rocket exploded directly in front of them, while a child suffered life-threatening injuries from the detonation of a so-called firework "bombs." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These spherical explosive are not authorized for general use in the country and are mainly used in large-scale professional fireworks displays. Other people suffered severe hearing damage and eye injuries, including permanent loss of sight or hearing. According to Czyborra, there were also 23 recorded cases in which carers and doctors were physically or verbally attacked by patients during the festivities. It is not just Berlin, however. Every January, across Germany, there are debates about injuries, deaths, arrests and property damage from New Year's Eve fireworks. At least five people were killed in fireworks-related accidents and police arrested hundreds across the country as the nation rang in 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 1 million people in Germany have now joined a petition for a nationwide ban on fireworks initiated by the German Police Union (GdP) in Berlin. However, Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Interior Minister Nancy Faeser have both already spoken out against a ban. HARLEM, Manhattan (PIX11) A U.S. Postal Service worker who was stabbed to death in New York City on Thursday was a family man raising two children, according to those who knew him. Ray Hodge, a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service, was fatally stabbed during a fight at a deli in Manhattan, police said. The stabbing happened at Joes Grocery at 168 Lenox Ave. in Harlem around 2:30 p.m., according to the NYPD. More Local News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter carrier was on duty and making his rounds before he popped into the deli, a usual spot for his lunch break. An employee who was inside the deli at the time of the stabbing said Hodge went to the counter to buy a sandwich. The deli worker said 24-year-old Jaia Cruz was behind Hodge in the store and started arguing over who was in line first. He told her, Im trying to order my sandwich. I was here, said the deli worker. Two boys, both 17, shot inside Upper West Side bodega: sources The deli worker said the two kept arguing, and people unsuccessfully tried to intervene. I separate them. She came from behind me, and she spit on him, said the deli worker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The deli worker said Hodge grabbed a bottle to defend himself. She took a knife and stabbed him in the neck and his stomach, said the deli worker. Hodge was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Cruz, a Harlem resident, was arrested shortly after the stabbing and was charged with second-degree murder, police said. Hodge was 36 years old and lived in the Bronx. His family, friends, and colleagues said he was a family man raising two boys. We lost an angel. We lost one of the good ones through senseless violence. And it just has to stop, said James Johnson, a friend of Hodge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those who knew Hodge questioned why his life was taken over something so petty. You come to the store with a knife and you stab a postal worker? If hes not protected, then who is in this city? Johnson said. Finn Hoogensen is a digital journalist who has covered local news for more than six years. He has been with PIX11 News since 2022. See more of his work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Following talks with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul in Seoul, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has stated that Russia is prepared to supply North Korea (DPRK) with advanced space and satellite technologies in return for weapons and equipment to aid its war efforts in Ukraine. Source: European Pravda, citing South Korean news agency Yonhap Quote from Blinken: "We have reasons to believe that Moscow intends to share advanced space and satellite technology with Pyongyang." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Blinken pointed out that the cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang is a matter of concern for the United States and its key allies, such as South Korea and Japan. He stressed that Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin "may be close to reversing a decadeslong policy by accepting DPRK's nuclear weapons programme". "That concern is very much a focus, not only for the United States, but also Korea and Japan," Blinken said. The US secretary of state noted that North Korea's close alliance with Russia underscores the need for greater security cooperation between the US, South Korea, Japan and NATO as security in the Indo-Pacific and Europe becomes increasingly interconnected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Notably, during Blinken's visit to Seoul, North Korea launched an intermediate-range ballistic missile that travelled over 1,100 km east before landing in the sea, the South Korean military said. Previously: US intelligence services believe that the deployment of North Korean troops in Russia was North Korea's idea, not Russia's. The Pentagon had previously predicted an increase in casualties among the North Korean military which continues to take part in the fighting in Russia's Kursk Oblast, where Ukrainian forces are conducting operations. Support UP or become our patron! The mother of a 1-year-old boy went to work on Nov. 23, leaving her son in the care of her boyfriend at the time. But what was meant to be a typical babysitting arrangement quickly turned horrific when the unnamed mother returned home to a shocking sight. According to a criminal complaint, authorities were called to the Pennsylvania home following reports of an unresponsive child. The mother told police she found her son, named Kybrel, on the couch after coming home from work, according to WTAE. When questioned by authorities, the mothers boyfriend, Lyndon Henderson, said the boy fell off the couch onto the floor while playing. According to Henderson, Kybrel was smiling after his fall, reports WTAE. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The baby boy was rushed to the hospital and placed on a ventilator, according to WTAE. Officials said the boy endured a traumatic brain injury and bruises to his body. In the complaint, Kybrels doctor told officials his injuries were unequivocally the result of child abuse, clearly differing from Hendersons story. He was beat like a man. A man beat my grandson, Carla Darrell, the victims grandmother, told WXPI. He didnt do [anything.] There was nothing possible he couldve [done] to do this to him. Henderson, 24, was arrested and initially charged with assault, according to WPXI. I dont believe he belongs out of jail. He belongs there. He belongs where he deserves. He deserves in there, Darrell continued. Five weeks after to November incident, the one-year-old remains in the hospital, according to the family. Kybrel has been placed on a feeding tube in a medically induced coma as he recovers. The little boy also suffered a stroke and has a broken vertebra in his neck, according to WPXI. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ongoing severity of Kybrels injures prompted the Washington County District Attorney to up Hendersons charges from simple assault to attempted homicide, according to the DAs office. My office will always seek justice for victims. Children are innocent and our most vulnerable, and I will prosecute offenders who commit crimes against them vigorously and to the fullest extent the law allows, District Attorney Jason Walsh said. According to PEOPLE, Henderson remains in jail without bond. he is expected to appear in court later this month. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. A bluefin tuna about the size of a motorcycle has been sold for $1.3 million (207 million yen) at Japans most prestigious fish market, setting the second highest price on record during its new year auction. Michelin-starred sushi restaurateurs Onodera Group claimed the 608-pound (276-kilogram) fish with its million-dollar bid at Tokyos Toyosu fish market on January 5, Japanese news agency Kyodo reported. The bid marks the second highest price since the seafood wholesale market, considered the worlds largest, began to collect data in 1999, according to Kyodo. The highest bid on record is $3.1 million (333.6 million yen) for a 278-kilogram tuna in 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vendors from across the country put their best catches up for auction at the market most mornings of the week. But the prestigious new year auction carries a special meaning for bidders who converge to vie for the honor of claiming the first batch of the year. The years first tuna brings good luck. We want to make people smile with food, said Shinji Nagao, the president of Sushi Onodera, cited by Kyodo. A 276-kilogram bluefin tuna that was auctioned for 207 million Japanese yen (about about 1.3 million U.S. dollars). - Kyodo/via Reuters The group is behind the Michelin-starred Sushi Ginza Onodera chain with eateries in Tokyo and Los Angeles. It is the fifth consecutive year that the Onodera Group has paid the top price, having forked out over $720,000 (114.2 million yen) for a bluefin tuna at the auction last year, according to Sushi Ginza Onoderas website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their latest prize was caught off the coast of Oma in the northeastern prefecture of Aomori, according to Kyodo. The fisherman behind the catch, Masahiro Takeuchi, described to Japanese media how unbelievably happy he was. Im always worried about how many more years Ill be able to keep fishing like this, said the 73 year old, according to national broadcaster NHK. First opened in 1935, the fish market was originally located in Tsukiji and was one of Tokyos most popular travel destinations. A 276-kilogram bluefin tuna that was auctioned for 207 million Japanese yen (about 1.3 million U.S. dollars) is carried into an Onodera sushi restaurant. - Issei Kato/Reuters It was moved to Toyosu, a nearby man-made island, in October 2019. The relocation was met with mixed reviews: supporters rooted for an upgrade of facilities while critics slammed the loss of its iconic location. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bluefin are the largest tuna, and can live up to 40 years, according to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). The endangered species migrate across all oceans, can weigh 1,500 pounds and reach 10 feet in length. In recent decades, the populations have declined severely from overfishing and illegal fishing, according to the WWF. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com (Photo by Fumiaki Oguri, Stripes Japan) New Years, or oshogatsu, is one of Japans most important and longest holidays. On Sanganichi (the first three days of the new year), people celebrate the holidays by going to shrines or temples, spending time with friends and relatives while drinking sake and eat special New Years dishes. At the northern end of Honshu, Misawa and its home prefecture Aomori, however, welcomed the new year with heavy snowfall. According to Fumiaki Oguri, a Stars and Stripes Misawa Office employee, a strong cold front brought heavy snow in the Aomori area on the evening of Jan. 2. The snow continued falling throughout the night, affecting flight and train departures in the area. (Photo by Fumiaki Oguri, Stripes Japan) (Photo by Fumiaki Oguri, Stripes Japan) (Photo by Fumiaki Oguri, Stripes Japan) The skies and roads have since cleared just in time for Oguri and other Misawa Air Base employees to return to work for 2025. According to the Aomori Railway, some trains are still out of service between Aomori and Misawa Stations. On the base, Oguri said the snowplow teams have been clearing away the remnants of last weeks chilly arrival. The long winter in Misawa is expected to stay until the end of April. Stay safe and warm! This story is reported by South Dakota News Watch, a non-profit news organization. Find more in-depth reporting at www.sdnewswatch.org. IGLOO, S.D. (SDNW) David Streeter thought abandoning his traditional life to relocate into a survival bunker in South Dakota would allow his family to retreat from the stresses, expenses and restrictions of the modern world. The family of three also wanted to be prepared in case an apocalypse of some kind altered the course of mankind and threatened their lives and way of life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But 18 months after leasing a former Army munitions bunker in the Vivos xPoint residential complex south of Edgemont, the Streeters have had their dreams shattered. And they now find themselves embroiled in a situation that has brought on a level of upheaval, worry and danger they specifically sought to avoid. Its been nothing but a nightmare, Streeter, 51, said during an interview. We just wanted to get away from the rat race and live peacefully, but obviously that hasnt happened. Deadly hit & run on Pine Ridge Reservation In August, Streeter an Army veteran who was injured while serving in Bosnia shot a Vivos contract employee at close range. Streeter said the man had threatened his family and he was defending himself. No charges were filed in that case or another fatal shooting involving Streeter in Montana in 2010. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Streeters daughter witnessed and videotaped the shooting while his 12-year-old daughter was calling 9-1-1 for help. His younger daughter now sometimes cries in her sleep, Streeter said. Streeter and his wife, Katja, a nurse who works in Hot Springs, were evicted from their bunker and are living in cramped quarters with nine other adults and children in a home with only one shower not far from the Vivos complex. Streeter and his wife are the plaintiffs or defendants in a handful of lawsuits related to their eviction, the shooting, a protection order request against him and small claims cases. For now, the Streeters have lost the money paid to lease and build out the Vivos bunker, a tab Streeter estimates is around $300,00. Theyve also spent about $15,000 in legal fees to file or fight several lawsuits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Streeter said that even after moving out of Vivos, the on-site subcontractor he shot a convicted felon known to carry guns frequently parks outside or drives by the house where they now live. Streeter said he also has been interviewed twice by agents of the FBI, which former Vivos residents say has launched an investigation in the bunker complex and its owner. The stress of protecting his family, battling for his legal rights, maintaining financial solvency and trying to retain a sense of normalcy has led Streeter to make late-night calls to a veterans mental health hotline on four occasions, he said. I find myself in a situation where I have to constantly defend my family, and it should never have been that way, said Streeter, who carries a handgun at all times. Bunker complex a source of resident unrest Streeter is not alone in his stress and disappointment on how things have turned out at the bunker complex, but he has become a lightning rod in the effort to hold the owners accountable and push for positive change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Vivos xPoint survivalist community was developed in 2016 on the site of the former Black Hills Army Depot munitions storage facility. More than 500 above-ground concrete bunkers are marketed for lease to those who are worried about a potential national or global disaster or who want to live mostly off-the-grid. Its located in a remote area 8 miles south of Edgemont in southwestern South Dakota. The concrete bunkers, which look like earthen igloos, held military conventional and chemical munitions from 1942 to 1967. The town of Igloo grew up around the depot and was once home a young Tom Brokaw, a South Dakota native and former NBC anchor. The base and town are now abandoned. A four-month News Watch investigation recently revealed that the Vivos complex has been the subject of at least 16 lawsuits or legal filings, five complaints to the South Dakota Attorney Generals Office, and is now part of an inquiry by the FBI. Vivos is owned and managed by California businessman Robert K. Vicino, who told News Watch in an interview that the complex is largely peaceful, well-maintained and has been a financial success. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vicino also denied allegations of financial impropriety, breaking of contractual obligations or retaliation against people who complained in legal or state documents. He said any unrest present at Vivos is being perpetuated by a small group of disgruntled residents and bad apples, including Streeter. In mid-2023, Streeter sold his home in Montana and leased a bunker at Vivos xPoint to get away from the modern world and test his mettle at building a home inside the bunker and successfully living off the grid. The relatively low lease cost and monthly and annual fees, when compared to the cost of a traditional home and property taxes, would also allow Streeter and his family to travel internationally, he said. After living for a time in a camper outside, he eventually moved himself, his wife and his daughter into the bunker. Later, he built out the bunker with a sub-floor, walls, and a kitchen, bathroom and TV rooms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, it wasnt long after that problems arose and his expectation of a peaceful life on the South Dakota prairie was shattered. Streeters complaints rejected by Vivos Streeter began to contact Vivos management with complaints that his septic system at the bunker wasnt functional and that the tires on his truck had been destroyed by nails and railroad spikes mixed within the road gravel. In email communications with Vicino, Streeter asked to be compensated for the ruined tires and to have Vivos pay to get the septic system fixed. Streeter also made extensive allegations about how Vivos was being run, how resident money was being spent, and warned that he would file in small claims court to be paid if a financial arrangement could not be made. In an email correspondence from March 30, reviewed by News Watch, Vicino rejected Streeters claims that Vivos was responsible for tire or septic system damages. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So now you are threatening extortion and tort, Vicino wrote, warning that I think you are going down the rabbit hole. In April, Streeter filed two small claims cases against Vivos xPoint, both of which are pending. A near-fatal shooting, but no charges filed After that, Streeter said, Vivos on-site contract employees began to frequently drive by his home, sometimes fast and sometimes slowly, give him the middle finger or take pictures or videos of him, his bunker and his family. Streeter said Vivos contract employee Shear J.R. Rodriguez ran him and his wife off the roadway several times within the Vivos complex. Even though Streeter complained to management and law enforcement, he said the dangerous behavior continued. Streeter said a Fall River Sheriffs Office lieutenant told him that officers could not respond because the Vivos complex was on private property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In August, Streeter said his concerns intensified when his adult daughter and young grandchildren moved onto his bunker property. On Aug. 23, Streeter said Rodriguez drove at high speeds past Streeters bunker. Streeter said he tracked down Rodriguez, pulled him over and reached into his truck and grabbed him by the shirt, warning him to stay away from his family. A while later, Vivos contract employee Kelly Anderson drove up to Streeters bunker on a Caterpillar track loader, which the manufacturer indicates weighs up to 9,000 pounds and has a top speed of 7 mph. Streeter said Anderson began to threaten Streeter, who pulled his handgun and pointed it at Anderson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At one point, Streeter said Anderson lunged toward him, and Streeter filed a single shot, striking Anderson in the chest. A few minutes later, Streeter, a former emergency medical technician, left his yard and began to provide aid to Anderson. Streeter and another man who arrived on the scene, Chris Yellow Thunder, loaded Anderson into a truck and drove him off the bunker property, where they were met by an ambulance and authorities. Prior to arriving at Streeters property, Anderson sent text messages to Yellow Thunder, who is an acquaintance of both Anderson and Streeter, that he was heading to Streeters bunker to confront him. In the text message, viewed by News Watch, Anderson stated: Im about to f his ass up and What he did isnt right and Im gonna educate this mother f. Months later, according to Fall River States Attorney Lance Russell, a grand jury heard testimony and reviewed evidence in the case and decided not to charge Streeter with a crime related to the shooting. Streeter was charged with one count of simple assault for the earlier confrontation with Rodriguez, according to court documents. Rodriguez could not be reached for comment. Anderson did not return a message left on his voicemail. Streeter was evicted from his bunker and is being sued in civil court for damages by Anderson, who did not return a call seeking comment. A court overturned the eviction, but Streeter is still unable to legally enter Vivos due to a separate legal filing. Vivos promises to do all this vetting, but why do you then hire a known felon who carries guns to work down here? Streeter said. Vicino told News Watch that he hopes the state attorney generals office, despite the grand jury ruling, will eventually charge Streeter with attempted murder. Theres no vendetta here, and we had no bone to pick with this guy, Vicino said. He has a temperament issue, and that was an egregious act. Streeters attorney, J. Scott James of Custer, said the relationship between Streeter and Vivos, and the on-site subcontractors, has left Streeter in an almost untenable situation. I think Mr. Streeter came here with a lot of hope about how his life would be when he got here, and I think that hes been frustrated and disappointed by the way his interactions with Vivos have gone, and that he certainly didnt expect to be in the middle of a shooting match with a (Vivos) employee, James said. He didnt expect to be fearful for his safety and his life at all times, and has to basically guard himself 24 hours a day to keep everything from being taken from him. Hard to back down now Streeter, by nature, is not one to back away from a fight. He grew up on a ranch in Montana, and his military service in Bosnia and his later work as a federal prison correctional officer, law enforcement officer and certified emergency medical technician are all roles that require some fortitude. Streeter is also no stranger to using violence to protect his loved ones. In 2010, he was called to his mothers home to break up a violent fight between her and Streeters stepfather. When his stepfather emerged with a loaded shotgun, Streeter shot and killed him. No charges were filed in that case, according to local press accounts. When Streeter was evicted, his friend Yellow Thunder immediately opened his home to Streeter, his wife and daughter as well as Streeters adult daughter and her four children. The home is one of a handful in the former town of Igloo and sits a mile or so from the entrance to Vivos xPoint. I dont trust easy, but Dave and I hit it off the second we met, Yellow Thunder told News Watch. So when they needed a place to stay, it was never a question that they would come in here, and in fact, I would have been offended if they had gone to a hotel or anywhere else to live. Streeter said he is angry over how he and other Vivos residents have been treated. But he is also disappointed that formal complaints made by him and other Vivos residents to the Fall River County Sheriffs Office and the state attorney generals office of consumer affairs have not led to substantive investigations or action. Its like they think, If we dont see any problems, theyre not there,' Streeter said. All we need is for someone to take an interest and do something. All of this has happened down here, and Ive reported it to every entity I can find, everybody that should have authority over it, and nothing has been done to help me or all these other people being hurt down here. Fall River County Sheriff Lyle Norton did not return calls seeking comment, and attorney generals office spokesman Tony Mangan said there is no ongoing AG investigation into Vivos. Meanwhile, Streeter said he is waiting for lawsuits he has filed or those filed against him to be resolved before making any plans for the future. I dont like to run from things, and Im tired of giving in to all this bulls, Streeter said. My wife and my daughter have asked me not to go back down there to Vivos, but what do we do? Ive got $300,000 into that (bunker), and were not a rich family. We put all of our savings into building a home there. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (Bloomberg) -- Mozambican opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, who has directed waves of protests since disputed October elections that have left scores of people dead, plans to return home from self-imposed exile later this week, potentially exacerbating tensions in the southeast African nation. Most Read from Bloomberg The official runner-up in the presidential vote will arrive at the airport in the capital, Maputo, on Jan. 9, he said in a live stream on Sunday in which he invited citizens to be there to welcome him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The protests that started on Oct. 21 have wreaked havoc on the economy, cutting off key trade routes and curtailing energy exports to neighboring countries. They probably caused an economic contraction in the final quarter of 2024, and are also likely to do so in the current quarter, according to Standard Bank Group Ltd. Mondlane twice last week postponed an announcement on the next wave of demonstrations, which he had dubbed the spearhead phase. In his latest video, which had about 2 million views by Monday morning, the charismatic evangelical pastor and former lawmaker said he would be at the forefront of renewed protest action. I was not away from Mozambique out of fear, Mondlane said, adding that he needed to leave the country to orchestrate the demonstrations. I will be there. This is the spearhead. Daniel Chapo, the ruling partys candidate who was declared the winner of the presidential elections, is due to be inaugurated on Jan. 15. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mondlane criticized a regional bloc for being slow to intervene in the crisis. The Southern African Development Community held a weekend meeting to address the situation, and mandated its so-called Panel of Elders comprising former heads of state with expertise in conflict management to engage the Mozambican government and key opposition leaders. The panel, with support from Malawi, Tanzania and Zambia, must report back by Jan. 15, SADC said in a statement Monday. Tanzanian President Samia Hassan is leading the process in her capacity as the chair of the blocs organ on politics, defence and security cooperation. In December, companies in Mozambique faced the worst monthly contraction since August 2020 because of the protests, a Standard Bank purchasing managers index showed. The outlook has worsened markedly due to post-election tension, Fausio Mussa, chief economist at the lenders unit in the country, said in a statement Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sign up here for the twice-weekly Next Africa newsletter --With assistance from Ian Fisher and Monique Vanek. (Updates with regional blocs comment from sixth paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. KANSASVILLE, Wis. (WFRV) Authorities in southern Wisconsin battled a house fire and used around 22,000 gallons of water to help out the fire. According to the Kansasville Fire and Rescue Department, on January 4 around 11:30 a.m., crews were sent to a reported fire in the 4200 block of Stormy Drive. It was mentioned that the residents of the home were evacuating as crews were on their way. When authorities got to the house, heavy smoke was seen and other fire departments were requested. Officials say about 22,000 gallons of water were used to put out the fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two people and a UTV rescued after falling through ice in Wisconsin, driver arrested for first OWI offense The release says the fire is believed to have been caused by the improper disposal of fireplace ashes. The two residents of the home were reportedly accounted for and were not injured. Multiple agencies assisted in putting out the fire. No additional information was provided. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. This article was published Sunday, Jan. 5. For the latest on the winter storm for Monday, Jan. 6, follow us here. ARLINGTON, Va. More than 60 million Americans were under winter weather and storm advisories Sunday as a swath of the Midwest and East, already gripped by bitterly cold temperatures, braced for a historic storm after more than 2 feet of snow already fell in some areas since Friday. "Over a dozen states are forecast to be impacted by one or more aspects of this storm," AccuWeather Meteorologist Brandon Buckingham said. He said snow could exceed 6 inches in some areas and "is expected to bring travel to a standstill in places like Kansas City, St. Louis, Indianapolis and Cincinnati." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Governors in several states, including Arkansas, Kentucky, West Virginia, and Virginia, declared states of emergency ahead of the weather system. And New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency for seven counties while Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly declared a state of disaster. The National Weather Service warned that some areas could see their biggest storm in more than a decade. The storm was moving toward the mid-Atlantic, where residents braced for heavy snow and cold temperatures. Daytime temperatures on Monday and Tuesday are predicted to be 10 to 20 degrees below average from the Great Plains to the East Coast, according to the weather service. In Arlington and the Washington, D.C., region, where some winters come and go with barely a hint of snow, the storm was forecast to hit Sunday night. The Weather Service warned of total snow and sleet accumulations from 5 to 9 inches. Amounts of 10 to 12 inches were possible in isolated spots, forecasters said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And a second round of heavy snow was possible late Monday before the precipitation ends, the local winter weather message said. "Today is the day, Virginia," the Virginia Department of Transportation posted Sunday on social media. "Wintry weather is headed our way (and) hazardous travel conditions are expected. Plan travel around the storm." 'Heaviest snowfall in over a decade': Mega winter storm bears down on millions Storm could delay first school days of 2025 Hundreds of schools from the Midwest to the East Coast that were planning to reopen Monday after a two-week winter holiday break were faced with delaying restarts for a day or more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cincinnati Public Schools is closed Monday as snow is expected to continue overnight into the beginning of the school week. The district's snow day comes amid a slew of other closures in the area. In Springfield, Missouri, the school district canceled school Monday due to inclement weather and icy roads. In Kentucky, some Louisville-area schools canceled classes as the storm moved into the area, bringing a mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain and hazardous road conditions. Meanwhile, Emily Roszkowski, who has taught in Arlington schools for 11 years, said she, her husband, and their daughter, Josephine, 3, will be wearing pajamas inside out and backward to encourage a snowfall. They are excited about the rare opportunity to sled on a nearby hill. "I'm excited for the snow, especially for the kids," Roszkowski said. "But I'm also ready to get back to school and into a routine." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nicole McCullough, a school counselor in the district for nine years, says she also plans to enjoy the snow. "One thing I love about living in the D.C. area is experiencing all four seasons," McCullough said. "Bring on the snow!" John Bacon, USA TODAY; Erin Couch, Cincinnati Enquirer; Claudette Riley, Springfield News-Leader; Louisville Courier Journal Tornado reported in Arkansas Over one million people in Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi were under tornado watches on Sunday, according to USA TODAY's weather alerts tracker. Several tornado watches were set to expire Sunday night in parts of Louisiana and Mississippi, according to the weather service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The weather service's office in Little Rock, Arkansas, reported earlier Sunday that a tornado was confirmed in Lincoln County. The tornado was spotted shortly after 2 p.m. local time north of Garrett Bridge near Avery in southeastern Arkansas. Storm stretching from Midwest to East Coast Some of the usual targets in the Northeast, such as New York and Boston, were expecting little or no snow. Philadelphia could see 2 to 5 inches, forecasters said. Locations farther south and west were looking at more, and some of those areas were less equipped to deal with the snow and ice. "The storm is still taking shape," meteorologist Rich Bann of the National Weather Service Weather Prediction Center said. "But this thing has multiple hazards from heavy snows in the Plains to significant icing covering roads farther south." Freezing rain and ice will hit southern Missouri, Kentucky, and Tennessee, Bann said, likely making roads hazardous and downing power lines. A wide area of the nation from Nebraska and Kansas through Ohio, Indiana, southwestern Pennsylvania, and northwestern Virginia could see from 1 inch to a foot of snow. Ice could knock out power lines and cause widespread outages, authorities warned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AccuWeather said 30 inches could fall in some areas from northeastern Kansas through northern Missouri to west-central Illinois. "It'll be nearly impossible to drive in some areas," Bann said. On Sunday, Kansas and parts of northwestern Missouri were under blizzard conditions, according to the weather service. Roadways were blanketed in snow and ice, and authorities urged residents to avoid travel. Much of the main artery in Kansas, Interstate 70, was closed throughout Sunday due to heavy snow and ice. Meanwhile, in Missouri, state police shut down a stretch of Interstate 29 to search for stranded motorists. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of late Sunday afternoon, troopers had responded to nearly 600 stranded drivers and 285 crashes, the agency said on X, formerly Twitter. Some areas were in recovery mode. As of Sunday morning, over 17 inches of snow had slammed Erie, Pennsylvania. Rome, New York was blasted by almost 2 feet of snow, AccuWeather reported. Parts of Upstate New York have checked in with more than 30 inches of snow in the last few days. Travel watches issued for 19 Indiana counties Agencies in Indiana called for only essential travel in several state counties as a wintry mix in Indiana's southern half makes roads perilous. County emergency management workers have issued travel watches in 19 Indiana counties, signaling conditions bad enough to recommend traveling only for work or emergencies. All are in Southern Indiana except for Hamilton County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Four Indiana counties near Louisville are under travel warnings, the highest level signaling residents should refrain from all travel, according to a statewide map. All other counties along or south of the I-70 corridor, including Marion, are under a lower warning called a travel advisory. This means hazards are largely confined to certain areas. The National Weather Service predicts that a wintry mix with sleet and freezing drizzle will continue in the Vincennes region and hit the Bloomington area by 6 p.m. Indianapolis is forecast to receive heavy snowfall until midnight. Alysa Guffey and Jordan Smith, Indianapolis Star What is ahead? A week of brutal cold Temperatures 12 to 25 degrees below normal for early-January are projected across much of the central and eastern United States for the next week, AccuWeather warned. In the short term, wind gusts Sunday and Monday will range from 20-35 mph from the Central states into parts of the Tennessee Valley will make it feel even colder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Should the cold wave evolve to its full potential, maximum temperature departures could plunge 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit below the historical average from the northern Plains and Midwest to the interior Southeast," AccuWeather Meteorologist Alex Duffus said. Farther south, however, into the warm sector of the storm, robust thunderstorms can kick up and produce severe wind gusts along the Gulf Coast. How many flights, train trips have been canceled? Over 1,700 U.S. flights have been canceled, and more than 7,000 delayed as of Sunday night, according to flight-tracking website FlightAware. Southwest and American Airlines have been hit the hardest: Each canceled more than 100 flights Monday. More than 1,000 U.S. flights already had been canceled for Monday. Amtrak canceled more than two dozen Sunday trains in the Midwest and East and already had canceled more than 50 trains Monday. California not exempt from wild weather AccuWeather forecasters say a major wind event is on the way to parts of California this week. The iconic Santa Ana winds will race across Southern California starting Tuesday and continuing through Wednesday evening. Wind gusts are expected to peak at 50 to 70 mph, with localized gusts of up to 80 mph, AccuWeather meteorologist Gwen Fieweger said. Some mountain areas could even reach 100 mph, she added. Even downtown Los Angeles won't be completely spared: Gusts up to 30 mph are possible. Contributing: Reuters This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Winter weather updates: Disruptive storm brings dangerous conditions The U.S. Navy is now officially using Murder Hornet to refer to F/A-18E/F fighters armed with five AIM-120 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) and four AIM-9X Sidewinders. The air-to-air ordnance configuration for the Super Hornet made its combat debut last year in operations over and around the Red Sea and was enabled by a crash program to allow F/A-18E/Fs to carry more AIM-9Xs, which TWZ was first to report on. The Murder Hornet configuration and its use in combat were among various highlights the office of the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) included in a recently released year-in-review factsheet for 2024. The formal unveiling of the AIM-174B air-launched version of the Standard Missile-6 (SM-6), the first combat employment of an AGM-88E Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile (AARGM), and the services first air-to-air engagement of a hostile drone were also included. TWZ was also first to report on the AGM-88E shot, which destroyed an Mi-24 Hind attack helicopter on the ground in Yemen. An F/A-18E with the Murder Hornet loadout launches from the flight deck of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower in the Red Sea on April 19, 2024. USN As already noted, the new air-to-air loadout for the F/A-18E/F required the Navy to first clear the jets to carry AIM-9Xs on their outboard underwing stations (stations 2 and 10). Previously, the services Super Hornets could only carry the latest generation Sidewinders on their wingtips. The Navy did this in response to urgent operational demands to give the jets more magazine depth to help tackle kamikaze drones launched by Iranian-backed Houthi militants in Yemen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement F/A-18E/Fs with the Muder Hornet loadout were first observed conducting operations in the Red Sea region while flying from the Nimitz class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower in the April-May 2024 timeframe. Those aircraft were also seen carrying AN/ASQ-228 Advanced Targeting Forward-Looking Infrared (ATFLIR) targeting pods and centerline 480-gallon fuel tanks. The configuration has since been observed on Super Hornets assigned to other carriers operating in the Middle East. A Murder Hornet assigned to the air wing aboard the supercarrier USS Theodore Roosevelt lands at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan in August 2024. USAF As TWZ has noted in the past, while Super Hornets could carry an additional AIM-120 in place of the ATFLIR pod: Advanced targeting pods are critical components of a modern tactical fighters air defense arsenal as they allow for beyond-visual-range positive identification of targets. This is especially important in densely populated and complex airspace, and can lead to quicker identification friend or foe and the ability to fire on a target with confidence long before it would be within the rules of engagement otherwise. ATFLIRs infrared and TV sensors can be slaved to the Super Hornets radar and vice-versa, adding an extra layer of integrated targeting. The pods can also collect important intelligence on aerial targets, whether they are engaged or not. A secondary quasi-infrared search and track mode is also available on some pods that can provide detection of stealthy targets, although this is not nearly as capable as a dedicated advanced IRST sensor system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ATFLIR pods are especially important for visually identifying enemy aerial targets at night. The nine-missile Murder Hornet configuration does leave two additional underwing pylons empty. At the same time, not having stores on those stations, especially additional draggy drop tanks, would help the jets retain decent dash speed and maneuverability. Without additional tanks, the Super Hornet range and time on station would also be reduced, which could make the configuration particularly well suited to area air and fleet defense missions closer to carrier strike groups. Its also worth noting that the centerline drop tanks on Murder Hornets could be substituted for one incorporating an infrared search and track (IRST) system, but also less fuel, in the future. The IRSTs are set to give Super Hornets a substantially improved ability to spot and track aircraft and other aerial targets, especially stealthy ones, at extended ranges, as you can read more about in this past TWZ feature. The Super Hornets manufacturer Boeing has touted a heavy air-to-air loadout of 12 AIM-120s and two AIM-9Xs in the past, but it is unclear if Navy jets are authorized to fly in that configuration. Older Legacy Hornets can also carry up to 10 AMRAAMs and two Sidewinders. A rendering of a Super Hornet armed with 14 air-to-air missiles, as well as an IRST-equipped drop tank on the centerline that Boeing put out as part of a failed pitch to Canada. Boeing A Legacy Hornet with a 12-missile air-to-air loadout. USN Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The term Murder Hornet was also used colloquially to refer to another even heavier air-to-air loadout seen last year on an F/A-18F assigned to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Nine (VX-9) during Exercise Gray Flag 2024. The VX-9 jet carried four AIM-174Bs, as well as three AIM-120s and a pair of AIM-9Xs. There have been nicknames for other ordnance configurations on other aircraft in the past, too, including the Beast Mode loadouts Lockheed Martin has touted for certain variants of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. Murder Hornet had previously entered the American lexicon more broadly following the appearance of Asian giant hornets in the United States in 2019. U.S. authorities declared those real and invasive hornets had been eradicated in the country in December. Navy Super Hornets continue to be a very active part of U.S. military operations in and around the Red Sea against the Houthis. More than a year on now, the Yemeni militants continue to launch kamikaze drone and other attacks on commercial vessels and foreign warships in the region, as well as against targets in Israel. Drone kill marks seen on an F/A-18E Super Hornet from the USS Dwight D. Eisenhowers air wing last year. USN/The War Zone Giving tactical combat jets greater magazine depth is becoming increasingly important, in general, especially given the ever-growing threats posed by various tiers of drones across domains. The U.S. Air Forces new F-15EX Eagle II is a prime example of this trend. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles, which can also carry a large amount of ordnance, notably found themselves quickly running out of missiles while shooting down Iranian drones headed for Israel in April 2024, as you can read more about here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Altogether, unlike the Asian giant hornet population in the United States, Navy Murder Hornets look set to continue making appearances, in the Red Sea, Middle East, and potentially elsewhere. Contact the author: joe@twz.com Elon Musk is seeking to wield the power of his social media network to boost far-right political movements in the United Kingdom and Germany, after becoming a major backer of President-elect Trump in Novembers election. Musk has in recent days boosted populist and anti-immigrant figures in the major European economies, where he holds significant business investments. The tech billionaire has called for new elections in the U.K., criticizing British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and voicing support for far-right figures in the country such as Nigel Farage, head of the Reform party, and Tommy Robinson, an anti-immigrant agitator. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And ahead of snap German elections in February, Musk is voicing support for the far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD) suspected by German authorities of potential right-wing extremism and belittling German Chancellor Olaf Scholz as Oaf Schitz. As someone who has invested significantly in Germanys industrial and technological landscape, I believe I have earned the right to speak candidly about its political direction, Musk wrote in an op-ed for the German magazine Welt am Sonntag. Musk has this sense of having the world as his stage, said Jackson Janes, resident senior fellow at the German Marshall Fund and president emeritus of the American Institute for Contemporary German Studies. I think that to some extent, he is thinking that he can inject this, You gotta break things before you can make them new, and he represents that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk inserting himself into U.K. and German politics follows his rapid ascent to Trumps inner circle, having donated more than a quarter of a billion dollars to the president-elects campaign. Trump has included Musk on calls with foreign leaders and appointed him as co-head of an advisory body to slash government bureaucracy in the name of efficiency, dubbed the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Musk successfully lobbied Republicans to kill a short-term government spending deal last month and was joined by Trump this week in backing H-1B visas for highly-skilled workers, despite blowback from the anti-immigrant voices in Trumps base. Now hes appearing to try to replicate that kind of influence in Europe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nick Candy, treasurer for the Reform UK party, the far-right, populist and euro-skeptic party headed by Farage, told the Financial Times that Musk could be one of a number of billionaire donors to the party. In the U.K., foreigners can give money to political parties through British businesses they own. Musks Tesla is a major provider of grid batteries in the U.K., which store excess electricity generated by renewable sources. We have a number of billionaires prepared to donate to the party, not just Elon, Candy told the Times. The Reform Party is the disrupter this is the seed round, the series A. This will be political disruption like we have never seen before. The interview followed a meeting between Candy, Farage and Musk at Trumps Mar-A-Lago residence in Florida on Dec. 17. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Time for Reform, Musk wrote on his social platform X, reposting Farage, on Jan 2. But support for Farage appeared short-lived, with Musk on Sunday calling for new leadership of the Reform party, saying in a post that Farage doesnt have what it takes. Musk has also gone hard after Starmer and his government, seeking to link the Labour leader to a decades-old scandal involving sexual grooming gangs in northern English cities. The Labour government is under renewed criticism after rejecting on Thursday a request to launch a national investigation into the grooming scandal, which largely targeted teenage girls, with many male offenders of Pakistani origin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk has posted outrage about the scandal on X since at least August. Lindsay Gorman, managing director and senior fellow of the German Marshall Funds technology program, said the billionaires actions did not seem motivated by financial interests alone. While its nearly impossible to detangle business interests from political activity for corporate leaders, I do think its more than just that, Gorman said. For sure, the movements and parties he [Musk] supports in the U.K. and Germany have a better chance of championing and pushing through a deregulatory agenda that would make life easier for SpaceX and Tesla. But its as much about ideology, influence, and creating a movement based on Musks world view as it is about straight profits. On Jan. 1, Musk courted more controversy in the U.K. by calling for the release of the incarcerated Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. Robinson was jailed in October, sentenced to 18 months, for breaching a court order not to repeat false claims about a refugee from Syria. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Starmer has not publicly addressed Musks online attacks, some Labour members of Parliament (MP) have spoken out against the billionaire. Musks support not just for Tommy Robinson, but also the AfD in Germany, shows just how big a problem he is for democracy as well as the reputation of those who cosy up to him like Nigel Farage and Liz Truss, Labour lawmaker Stella Creasy told Politico, with the outlet noting that her constituency saw a major counterdemonstration against the far right amid riots last summer. Truss, who served as prime minister for 49 days in 2022, has spoken in support of Musk and backed Trump in the 2024 race. While Starmer isnt required to call a new election until 2029, after a Labour rout earlier this year, Musk is also looking to influence the imminent election in Germany. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Tesla and SpaceX CEO said Friday that hell host AfD head Alice Weidel for a live interview on X on Monday. The AfD, despite being labeled far-right, offers a political realism that resonates with many Germans who feel their concerns are ignored by the establishment. They address the issues at hand without the political correctness that often masks the truth, Musk wrote in his op-ed. Musk said AfDs approach to reducing government overreach, cutting taxes, and deregulating the market echoes the principles that have made Tesla and SpaceX successful. Musk also called for Germany to embrace battery energy storage, of which Tesla is a main provider. Environmental activists have sought to block the expansion of Teslas Gigafactory in Berlin, manufacturing electric cars and battery cells. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To those who decry the AfD as extremist, I say, look beyond the labels. Look at the policies, the economic plans, and the cultural preservation efforts, Musk wrote. The German government has earlier accused Musk of trying to influence its election. Janes, of the German Marshall Fund, called the AfDs platform rancid and opposed to principles that Musk embodies. This isnt the party that actually is touting people like him hes a globalist, right? Hes got stuff all over the world. The richest guy in the world, and the party itself is kind of the protest party against just that, he said. Still, Janes said he doesnt necessarily see Musks advocacy moving the needle with German voters. While AfD has increased its popularity and is projected to be the second largest party in the elections, Germanys other parties have vowed to keep it out of a ruling coalition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think that theres been some overreaction in Germany on the subject, and they could have simply almost ignored, or at least disposed of it, by saying He has his opinion, thats not ours, as opposed to being very, very irate about it in the public domain, Janes said. So, well see where it goes. But I have a feeling it will be a little bit of an issue that will not necessarily make a difference. I think. Updated at 8:41 a.m. EST Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Muslim and Arab American voters in the U.S. face an uncertain political future as President-elect Trump prepares to take office later this month. Long considered a reliable part of the Democratic base, Muslim Americans scrambled the political calculus in 2024 amid growing fury over President Bidens handling of the Israel-Hamas war, with many abandoning the party altogether. Now, many Muslim and Arab Americans say they are without a clear political home, angry at what they say was Democrats refusal to heed their warnings and anxious about what a Trump presidency means for both them and the conflicts in the Middle East. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That home is not as solid anymore, said Haris Tarin, the vice president of policy and programming for the Muslim Public Affairs Council, referring to the Democratic Party as a political home. Post-9/11 it was quite solid in many ways, specifically because of civil rights issues, but I think that vote is no longer as solid as many thought. Although President Biden easily clinched enough delegates to become the presumptive Democratic nominee during his run and Vice President Harris quickly wrapped up the nomination after Biden dropped out, both saw significant discontent among Democratic voters who wanted more of a choice. This was particularly organized around those who opposed the administrations support for Israel amid its war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Two major campaigns organized during Bidens candidacy and continued with Harriss candidacy based around this frustration, one encouraging voters to vote Uncommitted in the primaries and remain that way unless the candidate agrees to certain policies, such as putting conditions on aid to Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The other one was an Abandon campaign, calling on voters to reject the Democratic ticket altogether. That group ultimately endorsed Green Party candidate Jill Stein, while the Uncommitted movement came out against Trumps candidacy but avoided endorsing Harris. Both groups particularly sought to appeal to Muslim Americans frustrated with the administration and those who sympathize with them. They argued that warning signs existed for Democrats with these voters who couldnt be counted on to back the ticket as they had reliably done for the past two decades. The exact breakdown varies based on exit polls conducted and the location, but the results widely showed a significant shift in voting behavior compared to past elections. An exit poll from the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) found Stein won among American Muslims nationwide, with 53 percent of the vote compared to 21 percent for Trump and 20 percent for Harris. One specifically for Michigan showed Stein ahead with 59 percent to Trumps 22 percent and Harriss 14 percent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Polling ahead of the election from CAIR also found Harris struggling with this group that had overwhelmingly voted for Democrats this century. After the election, the Abandon movement is seeking to have this moment mark a turning point in the political identity for Muslim Americans to not feel beholden to any one side. Now were sort of going to build towards a collective whose loyalty does not belong to either party or any party, for that matter, even the Green Party, said Hudhayfah Ahmad, who served as a spokesperson for the movement. We want to build a collective that votes based on morals and principles. Ahmad said the movement is expecting Trump will absolutely disappoint in his second term and will tell people they should try a third way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not about winning its about changing the conversation, he said. Its not about winning. Its about doing the right thing. Winning isnt important because weve sacrificed a lot of our principles in the name of winning, in the name of lesser-evilism, in the name of some greater good that never really materialized. Tarin said Muslim Americans want politicians to earn their vote and the lesson is: You need to listen to us. You need to engage us. I think thats a newer thing for this community. Historically they havent had that level of responsiveness for a few years in the Democratic Party because of civil rights issues, he said. A few advocates involved in Muslim or Arab American organizations mentioned the frustrations that those voters felt with no Palestinian American speaker being allowed to address the Democratic National Convention in the summer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement James Zogby, the president of the Arab American Institute, noted that having a Palestinian speaker had support from numerous people, including the Israeli American family who addressed the convention, and that those who blocked it were out of touch with where the electorate was. Zogby noted that Muslim Americans and Arab Americans often are conflated as the same group, even though most Muslims are not Arab and most Arab Americans are not Muslim. But both groups received attention over their frustration and supported the Democratic ticket less than in the past, posing possible warning signs for the future. In the majority-Arab city of Dearborn, Mich., Trump won a plurality of the vote after Biden overwhelmingly won it in 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Arab American Institute found Biden won among Arab Americans by 25 points in 2020, but Zogby said this year the community was probably an even split. He said every other demographic group was represented on stage at the Democratic National Convention, but not someone of Arab descent, and the administration wasnt willing to change its stance. This is a wound in the heart thats going to take a long time to heal, Zogby said. Will it be decisive in elections? I dont know. It depends on the candidates, and it depends on the policy mix, the other issues at stake. Wael Alzayat, the CEO of Emgage, which works to educate and rally Muslim voters to be civically active, noted that while the Muslim community was more divided in their vote, they were still united on their policy stance. Unlike typical fracturing, this wasnt people fighting about a position on gun violence or abortion. Everyone was saying, We need to end the war. We want the hostages to come home. We want humanitarian aid to be delivered, he said. But the tactic of how we want to get there, there was different approaches, and obviously and unfortunately, none of it worked, that the war is still ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Obviously, now the community is grappling with two issues. One is the war still continuing and Trump is returning, Alzayat added. But the fact Muslim voters were largely on the same page despite their ultimate choice at the polls shows how either side can try to win them over in the future, advocates said. I dont think the Democrats have necessarily lost the American Muslim world forever, or Republicans have gained this forever, Tarin said. I dont think thats the case either way. But Tarin noted many Muslim voters didnt feel enough of a difference between how Trump would address the war and how Biden has been addressing the war. Trump has more recently said he wants the war to end but also reportedly told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Do what you have to do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lot of people say, Well, I mean, how much worse can Trump be on Gaza? Tarin said. Thats a line that you hear quite often in American Muslim communities. How much worse can he do? What has Biden not done or not allowed Netanyahu to do that Trump would allow him to do so on that issue, its really hard. Adding to the uncertainty for the demographic going forward is renewed concerns over Islamic terrorism in the wake of a deadly attack in New Orleans on New Years Day, which has been linked to a suspect with apparent ties to ISIS. What this means for the American Muslim community under Trump obviously remains to be seen. Alzayat said one reason for hope is Muslim voters demonstrated their political power and that they need to be taken seriously and be listened to. If you have 200,000 registered Muslim voters in Michigan, and 70 percent of them voted for Democrats in 2020, and only 30 percent of them voted for Democrats in 2024 thats an 80,000-vote swing, he said. Thats too large of a margin to ignore. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 New York City Subway has seen a spate of high-profile violent incidents over the past month, raising the collective blood pressure of Big Apple residents. But is the system as unsafe as these viral incidents would make it out to be? Major crimes on the subway were down 5.4% in 2024 compared to the year prior, NYPD statistics show, and down 13% compared to 2019, before the pandemic hollowed out transit ridership, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch told reporters on Monday, Jan. 6. But murders are a stubborn exception: the NYPD recorded 10 murders in the subway system in 2024, tied for the highest rates since 1997. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And many recent incidents have been of a shocking nature. On Dec. 22, a homeless woman, Debrina Kawam, was fatally set on fire while sleeping on an F train in Coney Island, Brooklyn. The suspected killer has been charged with first-degree murder and arson. Then, on New Year's Eve, 45-year-old Joseph Lynskey was seriously injured after being randomly pushed onto the tracks as a 1 train arrived at the 18th Street station in Chelsea. A suspect is in custody and is charged with attempted murder and assault. Related: Man Seriously Injured After Being Shoved in Front of Oncoming NYC Subway Train, Person in Custody On New Year's Day, a straphanger was stabbed on a 2 train at 14th Street in Chelsea; the following day, an MTA cleaner was stabbed at the Pelham Parkway station in the Bronx. Police arrested the man they suspect was responsible for both attacks: he has more than 80 prior arrests, the New York Daily News reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While overall crime in the subway is well below that seen above ground New York recorded 377 homicides overall in 2024 the closed nature of the transit system lends itself to visceral fears. "I make sure I'm away from the [platform] edge. And you just be vigilant, you know, just look around," Tunde Cousins, a subway rider catching a train at the Prospect Park station on the B/Q line in Brooklyn on Monday, Jan. 6, tells PEOPLE. Even though the statistics say one thing, perception can be a different story. As such, officials said Monday that they intend to roll out new strategies aiming to combat crime and to make straphangers feel safer. 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 NYPD is reassigning 200 officers to "specialty train patrols" aboard subways, Tisch said Monday, and more cops will also be deployed to the 50 highest-crime stations across the city, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The subways will always be a bellwether for the perception of public safety in New York City," said Tisch. "Declining crime numbers are significant, but we still must do more because people don't feel safe in our subways." The NYPD has repeatedly surged its presence in the subway system in recent years, though often at the turnstiles to combat fare evasion. But Tisch said platforms and trains, where most crimes occur, are "quite obviously where our officers need to be." Related: Cause of Death Revealed for Woman Set on Fire on N.Y.C. Subway Tisch says their biggest issue in combating crime is "surging recidivism." The NYPD recorded a 146.5% increase in people being arrested three or more times in one year on felony assault charges, Tisch said. Tisch and New York City Mayor Eric Adams said they are pushing state lawmakers to amend criminal discovery laws they claim are hampering prosecutions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response to the high-profile violence, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said she plans to introduce legislation expanding the state's ability to involuntarily commit people to psychiatric care. Meanwhile, the MTA plans to install platform "fences" at 100 stations over the next five years, per its 2025-29 capital plan. However, a long-incubating MTA pilot program to install full-length platform doors at three stations, as seen in many cities around the world, has never come to fruition; transit officials have previously contended the design and construction of most stations is incompatible with such doors. Despite the jarring incidents, subways are still carrying millions of commuters every day, most of whom are accustomed to being vigilant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I've just always had a sense of caution around it all. People are pushed on the tracks and all these things, and for the whole 20 years I've lived here people have been stabbed," said Charity Dawson, a commuter at the Prospect Park station. "I feel like they need to get it together for sure, but yeah, I don't know if I would say it's worse." Read the original article on People A New York City postal worker is being remembered as an "honorable man" who "took care of his family" after a woman allegedly fatally stabbed him inside a Harlem deli this week. Jaia Cruz, 24, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder on Thursday, Jan. 2, after police were called to Lenox Avenue in Harlem between 118th and 119th Streets around 2:38 p.m. local time. After arriving at the scene, New York Police Department (NYPD) officers discovered a man with "multiple stab wounds." The man, later identified as 36-year-old Bronx resident Ray Hodges, was transported via ambulance to NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem, where he was pronounced dead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cruz, a Harlem resident, was arrested later that same day. According to the Associated Press, NBC News and CBS News New York, the United States Postal Service (USPS) has confirmed that the victim was a letter carrier assigned to Manhattan. The Postal Inspection Service takes matters involving the safety and wellbeing of postal service employees as a top priority. We are working diligently with the New York City Police Department on this investigation, the USPS said in a statement to NBC News and CBS News New York. 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. Getty New York Police Department vehicle (stock image) New York Police Department vehicle (stock image) Hodges was stabbed in the chest, neck and arms at the Harlem deli and was found by police on the floor in his uniform, per a court complaint obtained by the AP. At the time of the crime, Hodges was ordering a sandwich when a female customer at the counter began arguing with him about whose turn it was to order. She then allegedly pulled out a knife and stabbed the postal worker, a deli worker told CBS News New York. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Janet Rich, a customer at the deli, told The New York Daily News that the stabbing was "over a sandwich" and that she tried to intervene along with another person when the pair began to argue over who was first in line. A sandwich maker told the outlet, and The New York Post, that the suspect stepped in front of the victim in line, before a dispute led to her allegedly spitting in his face, him throwing a plastic bottle and her pulling the knife. After the stabbing, the suspect allegedly fled to her Harlem apartment before being arrested, per both outlets. It was not immediately clear if Cruz has retained an attorney. Now, community members are mourning the loss of Hodges, whose brother described him as a "great person," telling the Daily News, He was an honorable man. He took care of his family and everybody." Alejandro Alarcon, who told the Post that Hodges delivers his mail, remembered him as being "real nice" and going out of his way for locals. Longtime friend Flip Morales told the Daily News that Hodges was an "amazing person" and a "great father," who "was always a working man." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its just messed up that the family gotta go through this, Morales said. He was trying to just make some money. Thats it. Just getting up doing what you gotta do to provide for his kids and his family, and things like this [happen]. Read the original article on People Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) on Sunday said the violence that unfolded at the U.S. Capitol during the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection, didnt end that day, referencing the brutal attack on her husband two years ago. In an interview with CBSs Face the Nation on the eve of the four-year anniversary of the Capitol riot, Pelosi said she is glad additional security measures have been put in place to safeguard the U.S. Capitol as lawmakers prepare to vote to certify Donald Trumps Electoral College victory on Monday. Im hoping that this will be very peaceful, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Looking back on Jan. 6, 2021, Pelosi suggested that Trumps rhetoric against his political opponents, including herself, has had devastating effects that extend way beyond that single day, referencing the attack of her husband, Paul Pelosi, in October 2022 at the couples San Francisco home. Now it didnt end that day, she said of the Capitol riot. As you know, he called out to these people to continue their violence, my husband being a victim of all of that, and he still has injuries from that attack. So it just goes on and on. It isnt something that happens and then its over. No, once you are attacked, you have consequences that continue. During his federal trial, the intruder, David DePape, admitted he had plans to kidnap and interrogate Nancy Pelosi, noting that he was inspired by far-right influencers. Instead, on the night of the assault, DePape found only Paul Pelosi, who was home alone. DePape was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison over the assault and received a life sentence without the possibility of parole on state charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Trump has pledged to issue pardons for some of the Jan. 6 rioters within minutes of taking office later this month. Its really a strange person whos going to be president of the United States, who thinks that its OK to pardon people who are engaged in an attack, Pelosi told CBSs Margaret Brennan. The threat of domestic violent extremism is discouraging women from running for public office, says @SpeakerPelosi, telling @margbrennan that women candidates are attacked particularly for their ethics. "Women are known to be more, shall we say, ethical, than men. And so, when pic.twitter.com/ZXOhIkrCdU Face The Nation (@FaceTheNation) January 5, 2025 Trump comfortably won election again in November, despite his role in the insurrection. Pelosi offered her own explanation of why Trump prevailed. I wouldnt say that the American people disregarded this, Pelosi said. They just had a different view as to what was in their interest, economically and the rest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont call this a disregard of Jan. 6. I just call it something that they saw in their interest economically, she continued. Trump has repeatedly insisted that Pelosi was responsible for the events that unfolded on that day despite the fact that rioters looked for her. Microbiologist Martha Kuka works on testing poultry samples collected from a farm located in a control area for the presence of avian influenza, or bird flu, at the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at the University of Wisconsin-Madison on March 24, 2022 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) The Louisiana patient who contracted what officials said was the nations first severe case of avian influenza has died, the state health department said Monday. The person who contracted the H5N1 strain of highly pathogenic bird flu in southwest Louisiana had been hospitalized since mid-December. The patient was over age 65 and had an underlying medical condition, according to the Louisiana Department of Health. They contracted the virus from exposure to a combination of a non-commercial backyard flock and wild birds, officials have said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State health workers have conducted an extensive public health investigation and identified no additional H5N1 cases nor evidence of person-to-person transmission, LDH said in a news release. The patient has been the only human case of H5N1 reported in Louisiana. The state Department of Agriculture and Forestry has confirmed the presence of H5N1 in two backyard flocks in the state, one in Northwest Louisiana and another in Southwest Louisiana. There have been 66 human cases of avian influenza confirmed in a total of 10 states, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. California has the most cases with 37, followed by Washington with 11 and Colorado with 10. H5N1 infects birds and poultry. It can be passed on to humans who work in close contact with sick and dead birds. Human cases reported in other states have mostly been linked to dairy workers where the virus has been spread to cattle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The virus can cause severe breathing problems and death in birds. Similar, severe flu-like symptoms can appear in humans, though the risk for public health is considered generally low. Nearly 13 people out every 100,000 in Louisiana died annually from flu-related illnesses from 2018-22, based on the most recent figures available from the National Center for Health Statistics. That rate has decreased every year since 2020. More than 12,400 persons in the U.S. who believed they were exposed to avian influenza have been monitored, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Of that number, 560 have been tested for H5NI, resulting in confirmation of the 63 cases. State health officials say the best way for families to protect themselves from H5N1 is to avoid sources of exposure, such as direct contact with wild birds or other animals that might be infected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Experts also advise against eating uncooked or undercooked food. Cooking poultry, eggs and other animal products to the proper temperature helps lower the risk from any possible contaminants. For anyone who works on poultry or dairy farms, health officials suggest talking to a health care provider about getting a seasonal flu vaccination. It will not prevent infection with avian influenza viruses, but it can reduce the risk of coinfection with avian and flu viruses. Sick birds or animals should be reported to the U.S. Department of Agriculture at 1-866-536-7593 or the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry Diagnostic Lab at 318-927-3441. Persons who suspect they were exposed to sick or dead birds or other animals or work on a farm where avian influenza has been detected should watch for respiratory symptoms or conjunctivitis (pink eye). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you develop such symptoms within 10 days after exposure to sick or dead animals, officials urge you to tell your health care provider you have been in contact with sick animals and are concerned about avian influenza. This information will help them give you appropriate advice on testing and treatment. Anyone who suspects they are infected with avian flu should stay away from others while symptomatic. This is a developing story SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Supreme Court Justice Allison Riggs speaks at an NC Democratic Party rally on Jan. 5, 2025. (Photo: Lynn Bonner) Hundreds gathered for a Democratic Party rally behind the Legislative Building on Sunday to show support for Supreme Court Justice Allison Riggs, whose race for reelection remains undecided more than two months after Election Day. Riggs is leading Republican Appeals Court Judge Jefferson Griffin by 734 votes, but Griffin and the Republican Party are fighting to have more than 60,000 ballots thrown out on the belief that discounting them will elevate him to the Supreme Court. The state Board of Elections has not yet certified a winner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Riggs took the stage, rally-goers waved signs saying She Won. Riggs told the crowd the signs should really say we won, as she thanked Democratic Party officers and grassroots supporters for working hard for her election and emphasizing the importance of state Supreme Courts. I see the work you did, she said. When we asked you for your help, you moved mountains. Christy Clausell, an unaffiliated voter from Wake, cast one of the ballots Griffin is challenging. Ive never been targeted in any dirty political scheme, she told the crowd, but this feels very much like that. Clausell has been registered to vote since 2012 and has voted regularly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Having her ballot challenged is infuriating, she said. It displays a selfish motive by someone who is supposed to care about the people they serve. This is not caring about the people they serve. This is saying we are disposable and dont matter. I definitely dont want anyone representing me on our states highest court who exercises blatantly dishonorable tactics to get what they want versus serving the people who vote for them. Doug and Joan Shier of Chatham County hold signs supporting NC Supreme Court Justice Allison Riggs. (Photo: Lynn Bonner) A Griffin campaign spokesman did not respond to an email Sunday afternoon. Griffin has protested several categories of voters. The state Board of Elections has dismissed his protests. Griffin and the Republican Party have petitioned state courts to throw out votes and prevent the elections board from declaring Riggs the winner. Those petitions have been moved to federal court. The state Democratic Party has sued to prevent the ballots from being tossed. Sundays gathering is important to show Republicans were not going to give up and that were not going to play dead, said state Democratic Party Chair Anderson Clayton. Every single vote in this election cycle has been counted and recounted. Justice Allison Riggs has won her seat rightfully on the North Carolina State Supreme Court by 734 votes. Those deserve to be respected, and they deserve to be counted, and they deserve to be left alone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some in attendance on Sunday were motivated to stand outside on a chilly afternoon by Senate Bill 382, which became law over then-Gov. Roy Coopers veto. The law strips power from Democratic office holders. Republicans negotiated the law behind closed doors and presented it in a form that could not be amended. I wish I could have put 382 on the back of my coat, said Beth Godwin of Hillsborough. Shame, shame, 382. She hopes the rally will show that people havent forgotten. Were not going to forget, and were watching, she said. Donald Trumps anti-immigrant rhetoric has been a staple of his political career, but his attacks on undocumented migrants turned more ominous during his 2024 presidential campaign. Beyond disparaging Haitians living in Springfield, Ohio, Trump in September compared undocumented immigration with a military invasion. And on a radio program in early October, Trump said immigrant criminals have bad genes. Many Americans want a more secure U.S.-Mexico border specifically and stricter immigration policy in general. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But a recent national survey I conducted with several immigration scholars found that many Americans would not stop there. Many respondents said violence would be justified to stop immigrants from entering the United States. Violence against migrants Our survey, conducted in July 2024, asked 2,042 participants with varied racial and political backgrounds several questions regarding the use of violence against U.S. immigrants. One question asked whether they thought the U.S. government should be allowed to use violence to halt unauthorized immigration. Only 26% of participants agreed with the idea. But acceptance increased to 47% among respondents who identified as conservative and to nearly 54% among those who identified as extremely conservative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We also asked whether individuals should be allowed to use violence to stop unauthorized immigration. Though only 11% of the overall participants agreed, 21% of those who identified as conservative and 41% of those who identified as extremely conservative thought vigilante violence against migrants was justified. Donald Trumps incoming U.S. border czar Tom Homan, right, with Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, center, at Eagle Pass, Texas, on Nov. 26, 2024. AP Photo/Eric Gay, File Finally, in a question based on some incendiary comments made by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, we asked whether the state of Texas should be allowed to shoot migrants who crossed the border without authorization. In January 2024, Abbot had implied that Texas would be open to the idea of shooting those crossing illegally if state officers would not be prosecuted by the federal government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the broader sample, only 12% agreed that Texas should be allowed to shoot border-crossers on sight. However, 24% of conservatives agreed with that statement, while 52% of extremely conservative respondents agreed. Our survey makes clear that a majority of Americans do not agree with using violence against migrants. Yet, it surprised us that among certain sectors of the country, more than half of the people surveyed said migrants can and perhaps should be shot simply for unauthorized migration. From ideas to action Scapegoating immigrants may be a politically advantageous strategy, but such rhetoric can have tragic implications. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 2014 study found that a political advertisement with mild violent metaphors was associated with higher support for political violence, especially among young participants. These findings point to a troubling way that violent rhetoric can eventually increase violent attitudes among a portion of the population. In March, I traveled along the entire 808-mile Texas-Mexico border from Brownsville to El Paso. At the end of the four-day trip, I visited the Walmart in El Paso where a young man who espoused white supremacist views killed 23 people in August 2019. In an online manifesto, written before the attack, the attacker said he was targeting the Hispanic invasion of Texas. This group, he added, would allow the pro open borders, free healthcare for illegals Democratic Party to rule the country. In many ways, the shooters language echoed the rhetoric of Trump, who was president at the time. El Paso residents protest President Donald Trumps visit to the city on Aug. 7, 2019, after the Walmart shooting that left 23 people dead. MARK RALSTON/AFP via Getty Images During his 2015 presidential campaign, Trump had frequently referred to immigration as a dangerous foreign invasion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a July post on social media, he warned of THE INVASION OF MILLIONS OF ILLEGALS TKING OVER AMERICA! That same year, his campaign team wrote on Facebook, Its CRITICAL that we STOP THE INVASION. In July 2018, he talked about the infestation of violent migrants coming into the country. In November of that same year, he warned that Democrats want America to be a giant sanctuary city for drug dealers, predators and bloodthirsty MS-13 killers a reference to an international gang formed by Salvadoran immigrants. Some Trump supporters have embraced this kind of aggressive anti-immigrant stance. At a Florida campaign rally Trump held in May 2019, a participant said the government should shoot migrants. Instead of condemning the idea, Trump joked that they could only get away with that statement in the Panhandle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I fear that a second Trump presidency full of violent, anti-immigrant rhetoric could drive more bloodshed. As Amy Cooter, who studies extremism, points out, several militias with hostile attitudes about illegal immigration stand ready to engage in deportation and border security efforts. She points to the example of two militia members found guilty of conspiracy to murder officers and employees of the U.S. government. They had plotted to shoot undocumented immigrants at the border and planned to kill any Border Patrol officials who attempted to stop them. Hostility toward immigrants is not new. But in the current political environment, my research suggests that another four years under Trump may lead to more anti-immigrant rhetoric. That, in turn, could foment more anti-immigrant attitudes and possibly violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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: William McCorkle, College of Charleston Read more: William McCorkle was a public fellow with the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI) who funded this study. Mykhailo Drapatyi, commander of Ukraines Ground Forces, acknowledged significant challenges within the French-trained 155th "Anne of Kyiv" Mechanized Brigade, including high desertion rates and poor organization, during a Jan. 6 press conference. "Of course, this is a negative lesson, a negative experience, but it should be converted into some kind of preventative action," Drapatyi said. The general's remarks followed a media investigation that claimed soldiers of the unit, currently deployed near Pokrovsk, have suffered losses and gone AWOL (absent without leave) in large numbers due to poor command and organization within Ukraines military leadership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 155th Brigade, formed with support from Ukraines Western partners, was intended to be a flagship project to train new military units equipped with heavy weaponry. French President Emmanuel Macrons announcement in June that France would provide training and military supplies was part of this initiative. The brigade was meant to consist of about 5,800 troops, but fewer than 2,000 have undergone training in France. Despite Paris fulfilling its commitments for training and arms provision, an investigation led by Yurii Butusov, editor-in-chief of Ukrainian media outlet Censor.net, pointed to problems in the creation and management of the brigade allegedly leading to 1,700 cases of soldiers going AWOL from the unit before it fired a shot. According to Butusov, the failure to provide critical equipment, such as drones and electronic warfare tools, hampered the brigades combat readiness when it was deployed in November. Read also: In historic record, Ukrainian F-16 pilot downs 6 cruise missiles in single mission, Air Force claims Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There are problems, and there were problems in staffing, training, and partially in the command staff," Drapatyi said. "This is all consciously analyzed, and certain conclusions have been drawn." The general added that lessons learned from these difficulties are being used to improve the brigade and avoid similar issues in the future. Drapatyi acknowledged these challenges, pointing out that desertion was often driven by fear and a lack of combat experience. "There are many manifestations of unauthorized abandonment of military units, but there are also reasons for this," he said. "There is the fear of the personnel [...], and sometimes the lack of practical experience in combat operations." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of the 1,924 soldiers sent to France, only 51 had more than a year of military service, while 1,414 had served less than two months, according to the Censor.net investigation. The commander emphasized that the military is actively addressing the brigades issues. "I confirm that there were problematic issues with the command staff and the training process, and they are all being resolved now," he said. Despite the challenges, Drapatyi remained optimistic about the brigades future. "The brigade is developing, fighting, inflicting losses on the enemy," he said. The report comes amid growing calls for reform within Ukraines military leadership as Kyiv grapples with intensifying pressure in its war with Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: As Russians inch closer to Pokrovsk, civilians in the area are left with a choice stay under fire or leave life behind Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Commodore Ivo Vark, Commander of the Estonian Navy, has said that neither Russia nor Ukraine dominates the Black Sea in the conventional sense of naval warfare. Source: European Pravda; Estonian public broadcaster ERR Details: Vark emphasised that neither the Russian Federation nor Ukraine dominates the Black Sea in the conventional sense of naval warfare. Quote: "Today, the entire Black Sea can be considered a contested maritime area in this sense, where both sides effectively have a certain degree of freedom of action. This freedom of action is, of course, greater near the coastline, where both sides have their own air defence systems, naval mines and support from various shore-based weapon systems." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More details: Vark added that ships usually venture out to sea only for specific operations, but neither side takes excessive risks. Vark noted that both sides use gas drilling platforms in the Black Sea, "They provide a good opportunity for both sides to place reconnaissance equipment there and then monitor the naval situation from there. However, it is known that they are not permanently controlled by either side, meaning they frequently change hands." He was asked whether Ukraine had revolutionised the field of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), as the Ukrainian army had reportedly managed to down a Russian helicopter using a USV. "Ground-based attack drones have indeed become an important tool for Ukraine, but their image and, perhaps, their usefulness may be somewhat overestimated in the public eye," Vark responded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Ukraine itself says that they are using USVs precisely because they lack other means. They have nothing to counter the Russian Black Sea Fleet," he added. He noted that out of 17 large Russian warships, Ukrainian drones had managed to damage only six. Vark acknowledged that the maritime environment is challenging for drones. "Speaking of drones in general, drone technologies and counter-drone measures at sea are also developing at an incredible pace. However, many experts also believe that drone technologies are more likely to serve as an additional measure, that is, complementary to conventional tools and capabilities of naval warfare. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In other words, it will undoubtedly help improve situational awareness and enhance reconnaissance activities but will not replace modern submarines, surface ships, missiles, mines and similar means," he added. Background: In November, UK Defence Intelligence identified the widespread use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as a pivotal event that had altered the nature of Russia's war against Ukraine. UK intelligence also noted that Ukraines successful actions against Russias Black Sea Fleet had resulted in the destruction of about a quarter of its large vessels, including its flagship, forcing the fleet to retreat to the eastern part of the Black Sea. Support UP or become our patron! Minnesota Capitol. Photo by Minnesota House Public Information Services. Editors note: This is the third installment in the Reformers series introducing readers to the 22 new Minnesota House members and one state senator. Read our first and second installment. A judge last month ruled that Rep.-elect Curtis Johnson didnt live in his district and was therefore ineligible to serve, meaning that lawmakers will gavel into the session on Jan. 14 with Republicans holding the majority, 67-66, at least temporarily until a special election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because of the power dynamics, each new member can wield considerable influence not typically seen among freshman legislators. New members typically follow the lead of their caucus, as they are still learning how the Capitol operates. But this year, new members can withhold their vote and gum up the entire caucus agenda. The Reformer reached out to all 22 new members (including Johnson). Reps. Tom Dippel and Alex Falconer spoke with the Reformer for this installment; the others either participated in previous editions or did not respond to requests for comment. Tom Dippel, R-Cottage Grove Tom Dippel. Courtesy photo. Tom Dippel owns a dental manufacturing company, and hes a board member and co-founder of Valor Classical Academy, a private K-12 school in Woodbury that teaches students a classical, liberal arts education also grounded in Christianity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dippel, who will represent House District 41B, said he ran for office because he grew up around the Cottage Grove area, and he wanted to give back to the community. His top issues include clean water for the Hastings-Cottage Grove area, where much of the water supply has been contaminated with per and poly-fluoroalkyl substances known as PFAS created by 3M. Dippel, 42, said hes working on a bill to fund water filtration facilities at Hastings city wells. Some of Hastings wells were not included in 3Ms $850 million settlement to clean up contaminants, so Dippel said hes hoping the state can step in to help the city. Dippel said clean water should be a bipartisan issue, though he also expects to clash with Democrats on the state budget. The budget was raised in an extreme way and we see what happens, what the aftermath and fallout of those kinds of somewhat irresponsible policy making decisions are, Dippel said, adding that he hopes Democrats can work with Republicans to make life more affordable for Minnesotans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his free time, Dippel likes to hunt, and he listens to audiobooks at 1.75 times or double the speed. Alex Falconer, DFL-Eden Prairie Alex Falconer. Courtesy photo. Alex Falconer is the campaign manager for Save the Boundary Waters, an advocacy organization that works to protect the Boundary Waters Canoe Area from mining. Falconer, who will represent House District 49A, has long been involved in DFL politics and has managed several congressional campaigns. He said hes looking forward to proposing solutions from inside the Legislature. His top issues include protecting the Boundary Waters, ensuring students receive a quality education and lowering the price of health care for families. Falconer, 44, said hes also excited to get to know his fellow lawmakers and learn where they can find common ground to pass bipartisan legislation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im hoping for a general temperature reset that people can go to the Legislature with cooler heads, expecting that by the very nature of the session, we are going to have to work together and just get to know people, he said. A few years ago, Falconer combined two of his interests, running 110 miles across the Boundary Waters in 38 hours and 15 minutes. Rep. Erica Schwartz, R-Nicollet Erica Schwartz. Campaign photo. Erica Schwartz works for her husbands business, the Nicollet Mart, a local convenience store and gas station. Schwartz declined the Reformers request for an interview. According to her campaign site, Schwartz was diagnosed with a brain tumor during her senior year of high school and worked as a single mother. Schwartz will represent House District 18A, which includes part of Mankato, North Mankato, Kasota and St. Peter. She beat DFL Rep. Jeff Brand by three percentage points. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schwartz focused on local issues and mostly stayed away from national politics, the Star Tribune reported. She said shes seen people struggling to pay for food at her convenience store, the Strib reported. In audio obtained by the Reformer, Schwartz once insinuated during a Republican fundraiser that Democrats are pushing the country toward the conditions that led to the Holocaust. She later apologized, saying she made an inartful comment trying to highlight some of the reasons I ran for office: my deep concern about the one-party control in Minnesota, and the increasingly hostile political environment where free speech is under attack and Americans are divided against each other. Rep. Terry Stier, R-Belle Plaine Terry Stier. Campaign photo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Terry Stier is the chief of police for Belle Plaine, and hes married to Le Sueur police chief Pilar Stier, the states first Latina police chief. Stier, who didnt respond to the Reformers requests for an interview, will represent House District 22B, which includes Le Sueur, New Prague, Waterville and Belle Plaine. Stier also serves as a board member of the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association. In an interview with House Public Information Services, Stier said he ran for office because of increased vitriol against law enforcement. The attacks on public safety have caused a lot of turmoil within law enforcement. Were facing recruiting, retention issues across the state, and I think I can either talk in a coffee shop about what we can do to fix it, or I can step up and actually do something, Stier said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stier said his constituents are tired of political polarization and would like to see Minnesota lawmakers come to the middle to get bipartisan legislation passed. Rep. Drew Roach, R-Farmington Drew Roach. Campaign photo. Drew Roach, a self-described constitutional conservative, is a small-business owner who was elected to replace longtime Rep. Pat Garofalo. Roach is also an election conspiracy theorist who once got into a brawl with the son of a Rosemount city councilwoman. Roach was trying to serve papers at her house to notify her of a lawsuit to try to stop an upcoming primary election. Roach was charged with disorderly conduct after an altercation with the councilwomans son. Roach, who didnt respond to the Reformers requests for an interview, will represent House District 58B, which includes Rosemount, Vermillion, Farmington and Dennison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an interview with House Public Information Services, Roach said hes not a politician. Im just a regular, blue-collar guy, Roach said. Im an outsider-type candidate We needed somebody to represent the community with some strong conservative values, and so I made the leap. He said his priorities include promoting private school vouchers, getting parents more involved in their childrens education, lowering taxes and protecting 2nd Amendment rights. Rep. Thomas Sexton, R-Waseca Thomas Sexton. Campaign photo. Thomas Sexton is a retired U.S. Air Force colonel and helicopter pilot. Sexton, who didnt respond to the Reformers requests for an interview, will represent House District 19B, which includes Owatonna, Medford and Waseca. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an interview with House Public Information Services, Sexton said he declined to run for office twice in the past, but after enough encouragement he decided to run. Sexton said the number one thing he heard from voters while door-knocking was that they want to see politicians get along. His top legislative priority will be public safety. Were 1,000 officers short across the state, Sexton said. With my military background, I realize that people are not coming into the career field. Eventually that catches up with us, and its very hard to replace, Sexton told House Public Information Services. Galen Bacharier (File photo) A new year is upon us and with it, some important changes in state government. As a result of the November election, North Carolina now has several new leaders serving on its Council of State most notably a new governor. After eight years in the governors mansion and nearly 40 in elected office, Roy Cooper has exited public service at least for a while and turned over the reins of state government to his successor, Gov. Josh Stein. But before he departed, Cooper took a bit of a victory lap to celebrate his administrations accomplishments and to drop some hints about what might be next in his career. And recently, I got a chance to discuss Coopers farewell, the possibility that hell seek another office next year, and some of the things that North Carolinians can expect from the Stein administration in a conversation I had with my colleague, NC Newsline politics reporter Galen Bacharier. Click here to listen to the full interview. Read more of Galen Bachariers reporting here. NEWTON FALLS, Ohio (WKBN) A local school district is implementing a new safety measure program. Staff at Newton Falls Exempted Village Schools passed an Armed Staff Program in a December 2024 Board of Education meeting. The program aims to provide an additional layer of protection for students and staff in emergency situations. While we are fortunate to have a School Resource Officer on-site, the Armed Staff Program is designed to proactively act as a deterrent to violence and a force multiplier in the rare event of an active threat, said Superintendent Andreas Johansson in a news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some key details in this new program include: Volunteer Basis: Only staff who voluntarily apply, undergo rigorous training, and commit to excellence will be part of the program. Training Standards: Beyond the state-mandated 24-hour initial training and annual 8-hour requalification, Newton Falls requires 50-75 hours of additional annual training, including live-fire and scenario-based exercises. Coordination with the Ohio School Safety Center: All training aligns with state guidelines, covering topics such as de-escalation techniques, trauma care, and active threat neutralization. Background Checks: Annual criminal record checks are required for all participants. Legislated under Ohio House Bill 99, the Armed Staff Program was implemented in 2022 and allows trained and qualified volunteer staff members to carry firearms on school grounds. Community members are encouraged to review the FAQ sheet available on the districts website and reach out with questions. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. There are no important events for this country at this time. Select "All" to see top events in other countries or view all events. Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel said Monday that they have filed two lawsuits over President Joe Bidens decision to block the Japanese companys $14.9 billion acquisition of the Pittsburgh-based steelmaker. President-elect Donald Trump on Monday also reiterated his opposition to the deal, at least for now, in a post on his social media platform Truth Social. Why would they want to sell U.S. Steel now when Tariffs will make it a much more profitable and valuable company? Wouldnt it be nice to have U.S. Steel, once the greatest company in the World, lead the charge toward greatness again? It can all happen very quickly! The deal became a central focus of the 2024 presidential election as both sides vied for support from labor union and blue-collar workers, particularly in the Rust Belt. Biden, Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris all voiced opposition to the deal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first lawsuit filed in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit claims the companies constitutional right to due process was violated. The case argues that Bidens decision to block the deal was based on purely political reasons and that the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, an interagency panel that scrutinizes such deals, failed to review the case on national security grounds as it is supposed to do. They are asking for CFIUS to conduct a new review of the deal. The second case was filed in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania against Cleveland-Cliffs, its CEO Lourenco Goncalves and United Steelworkers President David McCall. Nippon and U.S. Steel claim the groups illegally colluded to prevent the planned deal, in part to prevent a party other than Cliffs from acquiring U. S. Steel. Cleveland-Cliffs, an Ohio-based steel maker, made a previous, unsuccessful bid to acquire U.S. Steel, which was supported by the steelworkers union. The complaint seeks an injunction to prevent Goncalves and McCall from "engaging in further collusive and anticompetitive behavior," according to a release. Both Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel have engaged in good faith with all parties to underscore how the Transaction will enhance, not threaten, United States national security, the companies said in a statement. Todays legal actions demonstrate Nippon Steels and U.S. Steels continued commitment to completing the Transaction. Cleveland-Cliffs Goncalves responded to the lawsuits in a lengthy statement on Monday that called out both companies for playing the "blame game in a desperate attempt to distract from their own failures." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Todays lawsuits against the U.S. Government, the USW, and Cleveland-Cliffs represent a shameless effort to scapegoat others for U.S. Steels and Nippon Steels self-inflicted disaster. U.S. Steels executives did not get their personal payouts. Now that it is clear that they have miserably failed the very shareholders they always say they work for, they are lashing out with petulance as a result, Goncalves said. His remarks also took specific aim at U.S. Steel CEO David Burritt, who previously warned that if Nippons bid fell through the company would likely have to close steel mills in Pennsylvania and Indiana. "David Burritt continues to embarrass himself to deeper levels at each step. Their lawsuit is completely baseless. We are well prepared to litigate and look forward to exposing the facts in court, Goncalves added. Robyn Patterson, a White House spokesperson, defended Bidens decision in a statement sent to POLITICO: A committee of national security and trade experts determined this acquisition would create risk for American national security. President Biden will never hesitate to protect the security of this nation, its infrastructure, and the resilience of its supply chains. McCall reiterated in a statement that Biden's decision to block the deal protected vital U.S. interests, safeguarded our national security and helped preserve a domestic steel industry that underpins our countrys critical supply chains. "We are reviewing the complaint and will vigorously defend against these baseless allegations, he added. Jan. 6SANTA FE As New Mexico state workers have returned to in-person work over the last several years, the amount of sick leave taken by employees has steadily increased. The state's roughly 17,600 rank-and-file workers took more than 1.6 million hours of paid sick leave during the 2024 budget year, according to a State Personnel Office report. That's up from about 1.4 million hours in 2022 and roughly 1.1 million hours during the 2021 fiscal year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Labor union leaders said Friday the uptick in sick leave is likely linked to Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham's decision in 2022 to rescind a remote work policy adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic. "People are using sick leave now that we don't have telework," said Megan Green, the president of the local Communications Workers of America union. Linsey Hurst, the union's vice president, said she was forced to use up nearly all of her accrued sick leave in recent months after contracting COVID-19 and another serious virus. Under the remote work system, she said she probably could have resumed working again more quickly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Everyone reacts differently to having someone coughing in the office than they used to," Hurst said in an interview. However, State Personnel Director Dylan Lange said Friday he was not sure whether the back-to-the-office mandate prompted the uptick in sick leave usage. He said the increase could also be due to a policy change during the 2020 budget year that allows state employees to accrue 4 hours of sick leave per pay period up from 3.69 hours previously for a total of 104 hours per year. "If you have more, you're going to use more," Lange told the Journal. Overall, the cost of the sick leave taken by New Mexico state employees last year was about $51.3 million, according to the annual SPO compensation report released last month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That's nearly double the cost from three years ago, when the cost of sick leave totaled $25.7 million. The Lujan Grisham administration announced in November 2022 it would be ending the remote work policy adopted during the pandemic and bringing employees who had been allowed to work from home back to the office. The back-to-the-office mandate took effect in February 2023, despite warnings from labor union leaders it could lead to a mass exodus of state employees. Despite the approval of pay raises for state workers in each of the last seven years, the number of rank-and-file employees, or those subject to the state's classified employment system, has remained largely flat in recent years and some state agencies have struggled to lower stubbornly high vacancy rates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Currently, the average annual base salary for classified employees in New Mexico is $66,976, according to the SPO report. But the total compensation increases to $108,607 when health insurance, pension contributions and other benefits are factored in. Meanwhile, state employees are also able to cash out up to 120 hours of accrued sick leave once per year at half their usual pay rate, though only accrued sick leave in excess of 600 hours is eligible for such a payout. A larger amount of accrued sick leave can be paid out upon an employee's retirement. Several viral social media posts claim that China has declared a state of emergency as several respiratory viruses spread rapidly across the country. BREAKING: China Declares State of Emergency as Epidemic Overwhelms Hospitals and Crematoriums. Multiple viruses, including Influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and COVID-19, are spreading rapidly across China, reads one X post with more than 7.3 million views. mystery disease outbreak in china overwhelms hospitals, reads a similar post on Instagram. The posts are mostly false. Chinese authorities have reported an increase in some respiratory infections, but the increases are in line with seasonal trends and no state of emergency has been declared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to global health authorities, respiratory infections have increased in China through December and early January. China is experiencing a large outbreak of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases at the moment, Sanjaya Senanayake, a specialist in infectious diseases at the Australian National University told Politico on Monday. Although this is a priority for Chinas health system, it should not lead to immediate concerns about a new pandemic. Respiratory infections typically surge during winter months, however, and are not unusual or unexpected. Although there has been a recent rise in acute respiratory infections, including seasonal influenza, rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and HMPV, particularly in northern provinces of China, the overall scale and intensity of respiratory infectious diseases in China this year are lower than last year, a representative for the World Health Organization told The Dispatch Fact Check in an email. A seasonal increase in respiratory pathogens is expected in countries of the northern hemisphere, particularly during the winter period. In December, Chinese health officials announced that a new monitoring system for respiratory infections was being trialed in the country and that cases of respiratory infections were expected to increase during the winter. The system should help officials identify, report, verify, and handle unknown pathogens more effectively than in 2019 when COVID-19 first emerged. Unlike COVID-19, however, HMPV is not a novel virus and spreads worldwide every year. According to the Cleveland Clinic, about 10 to 12 percent of respiratory illnesses in children are caused by HMPV. The virus most often presents with similar symptoms to the common cold. Health officials in the U.S. are aware of increasing HMPV cases in China but are not concerned that the virus presents a high risk to Americans. [The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] (CDC) is aware of reported increases of HMPV in China and is in regular contact with international partners and monitoring reports of increased disease. These reports are not currently a cause for concern in the U.S., Gabriel Alvarado, a CDC spokesperson, told The Dispatch Fact Check. We can expect that existing surveillance systems will rapidly detect any increase in HMPV cases in the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you have a claim you would like to see us fact check, please send us an email at factcheck@thedispatch.com. If you would like to suggest a correction to this piece or any other Dispatch article, please email corrections@thedispatch.com. Read more at The Dispatch The Dispatch is a new digital media company providing engaged citizens with fact-based reporting and commentary, informed by conservative principles. Sign up for free. Their selfless acts save lives and make our communities better. Now we need your help to make sure they get the recognition thats deserved. Emily Holley from the Red Cross shares details on how you can honor everyday heroes. Nominate someone for 2025 Heroes of the Heartland at who13.com/cares. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. After four years of serving in the Navy, Ernest Jordan is trading his sailors cap for a hard hat. He and his wife, Mandy, tell Action News Jax they struggled to find an affordable place for their family to live after Ernests time at Mayport, but now theyre building their own home in their ideal neighborhood. Coming out here, seeing the work get done, we sometimes think, Oh, I put that wall up. Those boards behind that wall? I put those up, Ernest Jordan said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Jordan family said theyve been wanting to live in Atlantic Beach both for the location and the schooling options for their kids. But for their family of four, Beaches Habitat for Humanity said theyd need to make around $97,300 to comfortably support themselves, which hasnt been something theyve been able to do. It was really complicated. We just got down, felt like wed try, just got discouraged, figured wed try again later, you know? Ernest Jordan said. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] But it was through Beaches Habitat for Humanity that Mandy discovered a way to allow their family to live in an Atlantic Beach home: by building it themselves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It can be expensive to live in this area, so I feel like this is just a blessing for me and my family, Mandy Jordan said. Their home is the first of a 44-home community on Mayport Road that Beaches Habitat for Humanity first broke ground on last June. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] The nonprofit said each homeowner has to put a minimum of 300 hours of work into building their homes as a requirement to live in them, something it calls sweat equity. The Jordan family said theyre grateful to own a home theyve not only, literally, fought for, but have made with their own hands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive cried, Ive been so emotional, but like, happy tears, like tears of joy, Mandy Jordan said. Weve been praying for this for so long. Beaches Habitat for Humanity hasnt shared when it expects the community to be complete. People looking to own a home through the nonprofit have to fill out an online application to be considered, which you can do by clicking here. Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. The East Front of the U.S. Capitol on a snowy Jan. 6, 2025. (Photo by Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom) While North Carolina Democrats mourned the anniversary of the storming of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, Republicans refrained from commenting on the riots, instead congratulating President-elect Donald Trump on the confirmation of his victory. The electoral count proceeded without incident or objection Monday, a far cry from the large-scale protests that marked the date four years ago and were followed by a violent incursion into the Capitol Building that sent lawmakers fleeing for their safety. Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) (Photo: House.gov) But North Carolinas Democratic lawmakers sought to ensure that the attacks four years ago did not go forgotten particularly as the man who spread the lie that the 2020 presidential election was stolen returns to office promising to pardon those who stormed the Capitol in his name. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Four years ago today, a violent mob incited by then President Trump attacked the U.S. Capitol and attempted to prevent the peaceful transfer of power, said Rep. Deborah Ross (D-N.C.). Today is a painful reminder of just how fragile our democracy is and how close we came to losing it. Rep. Valerie Foushee (NC-04) (Photo by Melissa Sue Gerrits/Getty Images) Now more than ever, we must remain committed to defending our democracy and ensuring this never happens again, Rep. Valerie Foushee (D-N.C.) wrote in a post on X. Ross praised the work of the bipartisan January 6th Committee and condemned those seeking to rewrite history. Trump, notably, has repeatedly called the insurrection a day of love. President Joe Biden awarded former Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) and former Rep. Liz Cheney the former chairs of the Jan. 6 committee with the Presidential Citizens Medal last week in honor of their work. In a statement on behalf of the Democratic National Committee, chair Jaime Harrison called on all members of higher office to make clear this kind of violent attack on our democracy can never happen again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats remain steadfast in our support of the democratic values our country was founded on and will always work to ensure that our democratic processes and institutions continue to function in service of the American people, whether we win or lose, Harrison wrote. No North Carolina Republicans in Congress acknowledged the anniversary of the insurrection, which saw five killed and 140 police officers injured, preferring instead to cheer the certification of the incoming presidents election. Congress just CERTIFIED Donald J. Trump as the 47th President! wrote Rep. Richard Hudson (R-N.C.) on X. Welcome back, Mr. President! Rep. Richard Hudson (NC-09) (File photo) Hudson, now the chair of the National Republican Congressional Committee, was one of the 147 Republicans in the House of Representatives who objected to the certification of the 2020 election, citing repeatedly debunked claims of election fraud. All other current Republican representatives from North Carolina either objected to the certification or were not yet in Congress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays the Congress from the swift completion of certifying the election of Donald J. Trump as our nations 47th president, posted Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-N.C.), who joined Congress in 2023, alongside a selfie in front of a snowbound Capitol. This years election certification, at just 30 minutes, was the swiftest since 2013, according to C-SPAN. The certification of the 2020 election, put on hold as rioters were cleared from the Capitol Building by police, took nearly 15 hours. CONGRESS CERTIFIES OUR GREAT ELECTION VICTORY TODAY, Trump posted on Truth Social Monday afternoon, just before posting a photo of the Capitol awash in Trump supporters four years ago. A BIG MOMENT IN HISTORY. MAGA! (Bloomberg) -- North Korea fired a ballistic missile Monday, raising tensions in the region as Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited South Korea to reaffirm the security alliance between Washington and Seoul. Most Read from Bloomberg North Korea launched what appeared to be an intermediate-range ballistic missile toward its eastern waters, South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a text message. South Korea and Japan are closely sharing information on the missile that was fired from near Pyongyang around noon local time and flew around 1,100 kilometers before splashing down in waters, the military added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move by North Korea holds significance given South Korea has been grappling with a political turmoil sparked by President Yoon Suk Yeols brief martial law declaration, which resulted in his impeachment. South Koreas defense minister and several military commanders have been arrested or suspended for their alleged involvement in the martial law plan. South Koreas National Security Council convened a meeting and vowed to maintain readiness, it said in a statement. We condemn yet another violation of multiple Security Council resolutions with a reported missile launch, Blinken said during a press conference in Seoul on Monday after meeting with his South Korean counterpart Cho Tae-yul. North Korea has ratcheted up tensions in the Korean peninsula by firing more than 40 missiles last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blinken on Monday met with South Koreas Acting President Choi Sang-mok and expressed complete trust in his leadership, according to a statement from the government in Seoul. Finance Minister Choi is South Koreas second acting leader since Yoon was impeached last month. The Constitutional Court is deliberating whether to finalize Yoons ouster. The political crisis in Seoul has coincided with North Koreas growing military cooperation with Russia, with Kim Jong Un sending troops to join the war in Ukraine. Blinken and Choi discussed North Korea and cooperation among the US, South Korea and Japan during their meeting, according to the South Korean statement. The US and South Korea have also accused Kim of sending scores of artillery ammunition to Russia to help Putin in his war efforts. In exchange for the arms, Russia has sent aid that has propped up North Koreas economy and helped Kim advance his weapons programs, Seoul and Washington have said. Pyongyang and Moscow have denied the accusations despite ample evidence showing the arms transfers taking place. Ukraines military intelligence chief has said supplies of North Korean ammunition to Moscow have been causing major headaches for his countrys defense, as Russias full-scale invasion grinds through its third year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement --With assistance from Ryotaro Nakamaru and Shinhye Kang. (Updates with flight range, Blinken comments) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. By Hyonhee Shin and Hyunsu Yim SEOUL (Reuters) -U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said a North Korean missile test carried out during his visit to Seoul on Monday was a reminder of the need to deepen Washington's cooperation with South Korea and Japan to deter an emboldened Pyongyang. North Korea fired what appeared to be an intermediate-range ballistic missile at around noon (0300 GMT), which flew more than 1,100 kilometres (690 miles) east before falling into the sea, according to South Korea's military. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking a few hours later, Blinken told a news conference the launch underscored the importance of collaboration between the U.S., South Korea and Japan, including on sharing real-time missile data and holding trilateral military exercises. "Today's launch is just a reminder to all of us of how important our collaborative work is," he said. Blinken also warned of Pyongyang's deepening ties with Moscow. He said Washington believed Russia intended to share space and satellite technology with North Korea in exchange for its support for the Ukraine war, in which more than 1,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded. President Joe Biden, who leaves office this month, made headway in deepening trilateral cooperation between the U.S. and South Korea and Japan, despite historic issues that have often plagued relations between the Asian neighbours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But political turmoil in South Korea, together with the imminent return of the unpredictable rule of Donald Trump in the United States, has raised questions over whether those efforts can be sustained. South Korean lawmakers last month voted to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol and suspend him from duties after his Dec. 3 declaration of martial law stunned the country. Yoon's impeachment trial is being heard by the Constitutional Court. If Yoon is permanently removed from office, a presidential election would be called and the liberals -- seen as likely to win that contest -- have been critical of Yoon's efforts to partner with Tokyo. Blinken, who also met on Monday with acting President Choi Sang-mok, told the news conference that while Washington had "serious concerns" about Yoon's actions, it had confidence in the country's institutions and democratic resilience. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Monday's launch was Pyongyang's first since Nov. 5 when it fired at least seven short-range ballistic missiles. It was not immediately clear what type of missile was fired but North Korea's IRBM tests last year featured a new solid-fuel design and carried what Pyongyang said was a hypersonic glide vehicle, a warhead designed to be able to manoeuvre and evade missile defences. The North has said it is working to make its missiles of all ranges solid fuel. Solid-fuel missiles do not need to be fuelled immediately ahead of launch, are often easier and safer to operate, and require less logistical support, making them harder to detect and more survivable than liquid-fuel weapons. (Reporting by Jack Kim, Hyonhee Shin, Hyunsu Yim; Writing by John Geddie; Editing by Ed Davies, Christopher Cushing and Neil Fullick) US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has stated that North Korea's launch of a medium-range missile during his visit to Seoul on Monday, 5 January, serves as a reminder of the need to deepen Washington's cooperation with South Korea and Japan in order to deter an increasingly aggressive Pyongyang. Source: European Pravda with reference to Reuters Details: According to South Korean military reports, North Korea launched a medium-range ballistic missile around noon (03:00 GMT) that flew over 1,100 kilometres eastward and landed in the sea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking at a press conference a few hours later, Blinken emphasised that the launch underscored the importance of collaboration between the US, South Korea and Japan, including real-time missile data sharing and conducting trilateral military drills. "Today's launch is just a reminder to all of us of how important our collaborative work is," he said. Blinken also warned of North Koreas growing ties with Moscow. He said Washington believes that Russia intends to share space and satellite technologies with North Korea in exchange for its support in the war against Ukraine. President Joe Biden, who is leaving office this month, has made progress in deepening trilateral cooperation between the US, South Korea and Japan, despite historical tensions that often complicated relations between the Asian neighbours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, political turmoil in South Korea and the potential return of Donald Trump to the White House have raised doubts about the continuity of such efforts. Monday's launch marked the first since 5 November, when Pyongyang fired at least seven short-range ballistic missiles. It was not immediately clear what type of missile was launched, but last year's North Korean tests of medium-range ballistic missiles demonstrated a new solid-fuel design. North Korea has stated that it is working to make all of its missiles solid-fuelled. Solid-fuel missiles do not require fuelling immediately before launch, are often simpler and safer to operate and require less logistical support, making them harder to detect and more survivable than liquid-fuelled weapons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: US intelligence agencies believe that the deployment of North Korean troops in Russia was initiated by North Korea rather than Russia. The Pentagon predicts an increase in casualties among the North Korean military, which continues to take part in the fighting in Kursk Oblast. Support UP or become our patron! The South Korean military detected a projectile fired from North Korea that was suspected to be a medium-range ballistic missile, a test-launch that arrived as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited South Korea. The missile was fired from the area surrounding Pyongyang, the capital, toward the East Sea at about noon on Monday, according to the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff. The joint chiefs said the South Korean military has heightened surveillance for additional launches and is maintaining a readiness posture for sharing ballistic-missile-related data with the U.S. and Japan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blinken condemned the test, which he called "yet another violation of multiple Security Council resolutions." He added that President Joe Biden's administration has "sought to engage the DPRK and multiple efforts to sit down to talk without any preconditions." PHOTO: People watch a TV broadcasting a news report on North Korea firing a ballistic missile out to sea off its east coast, in Seoul, South Korea, Jan. 6, 2025. (Kim Hong-ji/Reuters) "We communicated that on many occasions. We've done it privately, we've done it publicly," Blinken said during a press conference in Seoul. "And the only response, effectively we've gotten has been more and more provocative actions, including missile launches." The last time North Korea test-fired a ballistic missile was Nov. 5, just before the U.S. presidential election. The U.S., South Korea and Japan have during Biden's term bolstered their real-time information sharing capabilities, a move that Blinken on Monday had "strengthened our common defense and common deterrence." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said the launch on Monday amounted to "just a reminder" of the importance of that trilateral collaboration, which has also included military drills. PHOTO: South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken shake hands during a joint press conference following their meeting at the Foreign Ministry in Seoul on Jan. 6, 2025. (Lee Jin-man/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) MORE: As North Korea test-launches missiles, leader's sister says country sees 'urgency' in building military might "All of that and more is a strong and effective response to the provocations from North Korea," Blinken said. "So I have confidence that, because it's so in the interest of all of us, it will continue and future administrations, whether it's here, whether it's in the United States, whether it's Japan, we'll continue to build on the work." Tokyo reacted swiftly to the launch, saying it was reinforcing its regional alliances through coordinated action with the United States and South Korea. Officials condemned Pyongyang while emphasizing the importance of a unified approach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Defense Minister Gen Nakatani, speaking from Indonesia, issued a strong condemnation, describing the repeated launches as a grave threat to Japan's national security and regional peace. PHOTO: A man walks past a TV broadcasting a news report on North Korea firing a ballistic missile out to sea off its east coast, in Seoul, South Korea, Jan. 6, 2025. (Kim Hong-ji/Reuters) "We strongly protest and denounce North Korea's actions, which endanger not only our country but also the international community," he said, reaffirming Japan's commitment to work closely with the U.S. and South Korea to bolster deterrence and conduct thorough surveillance. Many office workers in Tokyo were returning to their jobs after the New Year's holidays when news of the launch broke. The projectile reached an altitude of about 62 miles and traveled about 684 miles before falling into the Sea of Japan, another name for the East Sea, and outside Japan's Exclusive Economic Zone, according to Japan's Ministry of Defense. The Japan Coast Guard confirmed that no damage to vessels in the affected area had been reported. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed serious concern about North Korea's advancements in missile technology. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The frequency of these launches and the evident improvement in technology demand that we redouble our efforts to strengthen deterrence," he said during a press conference. "Japan's peace and independence must be safeguarded by our own resolve." ABC News' Will Gretsky contributed to this report. North Korea tests ballistic missile as Blinken visits South Korea originally appeared on abcnews.go.com NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. A flyer was sent out to multiple residents in North Little Rock less than two weeks ago stating that the NLR Planning Commission would soon be voting on a possible slaughterhouse. The facility would be located at 1600 Gregory, and less than 5 minutes away homeowners like Talesha Dokes are developing opinions on the subject. Its going to definitely make a difference and an impact in the area, Dokes said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Little Rock to open nightly warming center Jan. 5-10 Dokes says shes been knocking on doors to let neighbors know to voice their concerns to the planning commission. Its not a high-value property area but we would like to keep the value we do have, Dokes said. The slaughterhouse would slaughter over 2,000 cattle per year, and the smell and sound of animals could damage the value of properties in the neighborhood. Meanwhile, some people like Michele Michalek, are looking at this as a win, saying it could be good for the economy while bringing in more jobs. This will create jobs, hopefully, more local meat will be available, its a lot of positives here Michalek stated in a recent social media post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Little Rock dispatch center adopts new software to assist with 911 response But Dokes says shes done research and knows it wont be good for those who live close. The health concerns that residents face around these areas over the long term can be very detrimental to the residents, Dokes said. The final vote is set to take place with the Planning Commission on January 14. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. FOREST COUNTY, Wis. (WFRV) The Forest County Sheriffs Office was alerted by the Brown County Sheriffs Office about a suicidal suspect who was armed with active warrants. According to a Facebook post from the Forest County Sheriffs Office, after initially failing to locate the suspect, deputies tracked their phone to the Township of Alvin. Two people and a UTV rescued after falling through ice in Wisconsin, driver arrested for first OWI offense Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies reportedly found the suspect and his vehicle, where it was confirmed he was armed with a handgun and possibly other firearms. Negotiations took place as backup arrived with an armored vehicle after the suspect tried to flee into the woods. The suspect, a 45-year-old man, was arrested and treated for minor injuries and charged with: Failing to comply with officers Resisting arrest Obstructing officers 2nd Degree Reckless Endangering Safety Endanger safety with the use of a weapon Operating a firearm while intoxicated Fleeing officers Two counts of felony bail jumping Operating a vehicle under the influence Police: Man in Neenah dies after crashing into a tree, 1-year-old found in smoke-filled apartment The post highlights thanks to the Crandon Police Department, Wisconsin State Patrol, and Phelps Rescuse for assisting during this incident. No further information has been provided. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. OSLO (Reuters) -Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere said on Monday that he found it worrying that billionaire Elon Musk was involving himself in the political issues of countries outside of the United States. Musk, a close ally of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, last month endorsed a German anti-immigration party ahead of a parliamentary election in February, and has repeatedly commented on British politics, demanding Prime Minister Keir Starmer resign. "I find it worrying that a man with enormous access to social media and huge economic resources involves himself so directly in the internal affairs of other countries," Stoere told Norwegian public broadcaster NRK. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is not the way things should be between democracies and allies." If Musk were to involve himself in Norwegian politics, the country's politicians should collectively distance themselves from such efforts, the prime minister said. Stoere's minority government, consisting of his leftist Labour Party and the smaller Centre Party, is lagging right-wing parties in opinion polls ahead of parliamentary elections due in September this year. But Stoere reiterated that he plans to lead the government into the parliamentary election, rejecting calls from some in his own party to step down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm very motivated to be party leader and prime minister, and to win the election," he said. Musk, the world's richest person, spent more than $250 million to help Trump get elected and has been asked by Trump to prune the federal budget as a special adviser. The German government last week accused Musk, who owns the social media platform X and is CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, of trying to influence Germany's upcoming election with a guest opinion piece for the Welt am Sonntag newspaper. German Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck said Musk's support for Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) was a "logical and systematic" play by the billionaire for a weak Europe that will not be able to regulate as strongly. (Reporting by Terje Solsvik, editing by Louise Rasmussen, Bernadette Baum, Peter Graff) Many of you may be traveling through the area of Ball Ground Highway and East Cherokee Drive between Canton and Ball Ground in Cherokee County. If you have noticed smoke in the air, this is due to an ongoing fire at Cowart Mulch, according to Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services. The fire is primarily burning raw wood and brush, and our crews, in partnership with facility staff, have successfully been working to reduce the risk of fire spread to structures and equipment on site and beyond, fire officials say. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Officials say because of current weather conditions, smoke from the fire is settling between Canton and Ball Ground. When traveling through these areas, motorists are asked to slow down, turn on headlights, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you have any pre-existing conditions affecting your respiratory system, youre encouraged to stay indoors and keep windows and doors shut. TRENDING STORIES: If possible, use an air purifier to improve indoor air quality. If leaving the house is necessary, wearing an N95 mask can help minimize exposure to smoke. It is unclear when the fire will be completely extinguished. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] (Photo courtesy of the Iowa Board of Nursing) The state of Iowa has agreed to reinstate the license of a nurse previously sanctioned for failing to make multiple home-health visits to patients. In July 2020, the Iowa Board of Nursing charged registered nurse Temeshia Renee Bomato, then known as Temeshia Renee Jacobs, with failing to properly assess or evaluate patients status and committing an act that might adversely affect a patient. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The board alleged that between October 2019 and January 2020, Bomato was working for an unspecified home health care agency when she repeatedly failed to make multiple scheduled visits to patients homes, failed to properly document visits she did make, failed to inform her employer of the missed visits, and failed to inform physicians of scheduled nursing visits that had been ordered. In October 2020, the board settled the matter by agreeing to let Bomato keep her license, subject to one year of probation, during which time shed be barred from working in a home-health setting and be required to complete a total of 15 hours of educational training on ethics, professional accountability and medical documentation. As a condition of probation, she also was required to produce for a case manager monthly reports of her work activity. According to the board, Bomato then failed to check in with her case manager or complete the required educational training. In May 2021, she entered into a second settlement agreement with the board resulting in her license again being placed on probation for one year, during which time she was again barred from working in home health. In December 2021, Bomato agreed to voluntarily surrender her license with the understanding that shed be barred from applying for reinstatement for one full year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State records indicate Bomato then opened Pots & Shots, a West Des Moines cocktail bar combined with a plant store. The business was reportedly sold in early 2024, after which Bomato applied for reinstatement of her nursing license. The board recently agreed to the application, noting that she has not had any further discipline or criminal charges. The agreement places her license on probation for one year, during which time she will again be required to produce monthly reports for a case manager. The agreement includes no restrictions on Bomatos ability to work in home health. Court records indicate Bomato, now 37, has three 2010 convictions for firth-degree theft, a 2011 conviction for fifth-degree theft, and 2013 convictions for public intoxication and operating a vehicle while under the influence. State records indicate that in 2015 she worked for the Iowa Department of Human Services as a social work associate. Crime in New York City's transit system dropped in 2024 for the second year in a row, the head of the New York City Police Department said Monday, while acknowledging that people still do not feel safe after several shocking subway incidents that included the death of a woman who was set on fire. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said she has ordered more officers to patrol the subway trains and platforms following the "terrifying acts of random violence." Overall, major crime -- including incidents of murder, felony assault, robbery and burglary -- decreased 5.4% last year in the transit system compared to 2023 and is 12.7% below pre-pandemic crime levels, according to NYPD data. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Woman set on fire on New York City subway identified by police Compared to the previous year, 2024 saw drops in robberies (down 16.3%) and burglaries (down 23.5%) in the transit system, according to NYPD data. However, murders on the subway doubled, with 10 in 2024 compared to five in 2023, and shootings and petit larceny also increased year-over-year, according to the data. Tisch called the overall transit crime drop "significant" but more needs to be done to address the perception of safety in the subway system after the "terrifying acts of random violence we have seen recently." "I want to be very clear, the subways will always be a bellwether for the perception of public safety in New York City. Declining crime numbers are significant, but we still must do more, because people don't feel safe in our subways," Tisch said during a press briefing on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sentiment was echoed by New York City Mayor Eric Adams. "It is clear, perception always overrides reality, and when you look at some of the horrific incidents that the commissioner talked about in these last few days, the average New Yorker would believe that they're living in a city that is out of control. That is not the reality," Adams said. "We know that we are doing a good job in fighting crime, as the numbers will show, but we must deal with the perception that many New Yorkers feel." PHOTO: Guardian Angels members William Ames, 15, and Jeffrey Moran, 44, walk past NYPD officers on a subway platform after a number of recent high-profile attacks on subway passengers in New York, Jan. 3, 2025. (Adam Gray/Reuters) One such horrifying incident included the killing of a 57-year-old woman who was set on fire last month on a subway train in Brooklyn. The victim, Debrina Kawam, was sleeping when she was set ablaze, police said. An undocumented Guatemalan citizen has been charged with first-degree murder. In another, a man was critically injured last week after an assailant pushed him onto the subway tracks in front of a train in Manhattan in a random attack, police said. The suspect in that case was charged with attempted murder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Nothing is more horrific than watching a person burned to death on our subway system. We know how individuals feel when they're shoved to the tracks for no reason at all. We know how it impacts us," Adams said Monday. MORE: Man in critical condition after being pushed onto New York City subway tracks: Police The latest crime data was announced a day after New York City's congestion pricing plan went into effect. Under the new toll system, the first such program of its kind in the country, drivers will pay $9 to access the center of Manhattan during peak hours as part of an effort to ease congestion and raise funds for the city's transit system. Among measures to address subway safety, Tisch said she has directed to move more than 200 officers onto the trains to do "specialty train patrols," effective this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I have further directed that we deploy more officers onto subway platforms in the 50 highest crime stations in the city," she added. "It's all part of the strategy to refocus our subway efforts to places where the crime is occurring." PHOTO: Police officers patrol the F train platform at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue Station, Dec. 26, 2024, in New York. (Yuki Iwamura/AP) She said more initiatives are in the works. "This month, we will roll out substantial additional improvements to our transit deployments to be even more responsive to the terrifying acts of random violence we have seen recently," she said. "I will have more to say about that soon." Adams also said addressing "severe mental health" issues will be a focus of the governor's budget to address public transit safety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We know we have to tackle that perception, and it starts with dealing with the real issue -- mental health," he said. Last week, Gov. Kathy Hochul said she plans to launch a $1 billion plan to address mental health care and supportive housing. "The recent surge in violent crimes in our public transit system cannot continue -- and we need to tackle this crisis head-on," Hochul said in a statement. "Many of these horrific incidents have involved people with serious untreated mental illness, the result of a failure to get treatment to people who are living on the streets and are disconnected from our mental health care system. We have a duty to protect the public from random acts of violence, and the only fair and compassionate thing to do is to get our fellow New Yorkers the help they need." The drop in transit crime coincides with an overall 2.9% drop in crime in 2024, including murders and shootings, Tisch said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The police commissioner attributed increases in felony assaults to repeat offenders. She called it "disheartening" for police officers to be arresting the same people over and over again due to an increase in the number of decline-to-prosecute cases and a decrease in the number of defendants for whom bail is set. NYC increasing police presence in transit system: 'People don't feel safe in our subways' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com NEW YORK A Manhattan judge held Rudy Giuliani in civil contempt and granted sanctions against him Monday for willfully defying court orders to provide information to the Georgia mother and daughter election workers he defamed, calling out the former New York City mayor for attempting to run the clock and thwart the womens evidence-gathering efforts. Manhattan federal court Judge Lewis Limans ruling, which he read for more than 15 minutes from the bench, came after he heard several hours of testimony from Giuliani, 80, about his efforts to make information available to Ruby Freeman and Wandrea Shaye Moss, whom he was found liable for defaming in December 2023. Giuliani took the stand Friday and continued testifying remotely from Florida on Monday morning. Giuliani claimed he had done all in his power to comply with his discovery obligations and deflected blame to his former lawyer, Kenneth Caruso, who withdrew in November and who hes known for around 50 years, dragged-out divorce proceedings, and being bogged down by his long list of legal woes for any confusion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Friday, he said he took it upon myself to withhold some items and information he didnt believe the women should be asking for. Its not an excuse to take the law into his own hands, the judge said of Giulianis unfounded suspicions, later calling Giulianis Monday testimony self-serving and saying he gave it little weight. The judge held Giuliani in civil contempt, reserving a decision on the ensuing punishment, and granted Freeman and Mosss requested relief to draw adverse inferences against him, limiting his avenues to defend his continued ownership of his $3.5 million Palm Beach, Fla., condo at a Jan. 16 bench trial later this month. The bench trial before Liman will concern Giulianis possession of his Yankees World Series rings, which hes claimed cant be taken from him since he gifted them to his son, Andrew, and the Palm Beach property he says is his legal homestead, whose seizure would render him homeless. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawyers for Freeman and Moss say Giuliani has willfully defied Limans orders to transfer around $11 million in assets and accompanying data and documentation toward satisfying the $148 million judgment he was ordered to pay for falsely accusing them of ballot fraud in their Washington, D.C. defamation case. An autographed jersey of Yankees Hall of Famer Joe DiMaggio which Giuliani had claimed was missing and whose whereabouts he said he was personally investigating is among the items the women said he refused to make available. They also say hes failed to turn over the signed title for his 1980 Mercedes-Benz, once owned by actress Lauren Bacall and leasing documents related to his stake in his multimillion-dollar 10-room Upper East Side co-op apartment, which Giuliani said hed located over the weekend. Later this month, Giuliani is slated to appear in Washington for a separate contempt hearing. Freeman and Moss have asked the judge who presided over their defamation case to sanction him for continuing to repeat his lies that they committed fraud during the 2020 election. Giuliani is also under criminal indictment in Georgia and Arizona on charges related to his alleged efforts to subvert the results of the 2020 presidential election. Hes pleaded not guilty and could face significant prison time if convicted. (Bloomberg) -- New Yorkers are having an unsettling start to 2025. Most Read from Bloomberg Several violent incidents in recent days, including on the subway, are deepening the sense that chaos and disorder are gripping the city and undermining public safety. They helped make 2024 one of the most dangerous years on record for commuters, at a time when the biggest US city is still working to rebound fully from the pandemic. Office buildings have been drained of workers vacancies stand near 20% - and weekday ridership on the citys buses and subways are below pre-Covid levels. Thats a big concern for business leaders who say their workers are fearful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is going to have to spend more to improve safety on trains, said Kathryn Wylde, who runs the Partnership for New York City, a business group composed of the citys largest companies, including JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Goldman Sachs Group Inc. Those are all extraordinary burdens on the MTA, but they really dont have a choice because, literally, this is the top priority of employees, she said. The cash-strapped MTA, the state-controlled agency that runs the citys subways, buses and commuter railroads, is trying to encourage people to use mass transit by charging drivers entering Manhattans central business district. But if people dont feel safe, the agency risks losing more riders. On Monday, the first weekday of the congestion pricing program, MTA Chairman Janno Lieber told Bloomberg Radio that the agency is accelerating a program to install barriers at the edge of subway platforms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Currently 14 stations out of a total of over 400 have platform barriers, according to the MTA. The program started a year ago. Lieber acknowledged that riders are growing more uneasy. Theres no question that some of these high-profile incidents, terrible attacks, have gotten into peoples heads and made the whole system feel less safe, he said. On New Years Eve, in the heart of Manhattan, a man suffered a broken skull and ribs as well as a ruptured spleen after he was shoved off a subway platform into the path of an oncoming train. A 23-year-old with a history of arrests for assault, possession of weapons and harassment was charged in the incident. A day later, one person was repeatedly stabbed on a station platform in Morningside Heights, another was slashed on a No. 2 train and a third was knifed early the next morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All that follows an incident a few weeks prior that captured international attention when an undocumented migrant allegedly set fire to a woman, Debrina Kawam, sleeping on a train near Coney Island. She died of her wounds. Theyre just the latest instances of violence that marked New York City throughout 2024 and made the public increasingly fearful. Mayor Eric Adams and Governor Kathy Hochul have made numerous efforts to bring down subway crime, but little seems to make a difference. Not more cops. Not cameras in cars or bag checks. Not even the deployment of the National Guard. Even with all those measures, 2024 still turned out to be one of the most dangerous years for subway riders in at least several decades, according to government data compiled by policy research group Vital City at Columbia Law School. Felony assaults hit 573 in 2024, the most since at least 1997, according to New York Police Department data. There were also 10 murders on the subway, double the figure from the prior year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some lawmakers blame the violence on the citys policies toward people with mental illness and what they say is an inadequate criminal justice system that often tosses repeat offenders back onto the streets. How many more random slashings, stabbings, and shovings must be perpetrated against innocent New Yorkers before the State of New York gives the Mayor the authority he needs to relocate dangerous people from the streets and subways? US Representative Ritchie Torres, a moderate Bronx Democrat, said on X. Hochul and Adams responded to the spate of New Years violence with pledges to seek legislation that would grant more power to authorities to commit people with severe mental illness to hospitals, and keep them there even against their will. Many of these horrific incidents have involved people with serious untreated mental illness, Hochul said on Friday. We have a duty to protect the public from random acts of violence, and the only fair and compassionate thing to do is to get our fellow New Yorkers the help they need. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While felony assaults rose last year, city officials note that overall major crime in the transit system fell 5.4% from the previous year, when it also dropped. But more needs to be done because people dont feel safe, said Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who spoke alongside Adams at a press briefing on Monday. Tisch said shell move more than 200 police onto the trains to do specialty patrols and will send more cops onto platforms in the 50 highest crime stations. Meanwhile, Adams said hell press Albany to change state laws that he said are leading to rising recidivism. This is just the beginning, Tisch said. This month we will roll out substantial additional improvements to our transit deployments to be even more responsive to the terrifying acts of random violence we have seen recently. What the city really needs is far better coordination to make its efforts stick, said Elizabeth Glazer, the founder of Vital City, who is also former director of the Mayors Office of Criminal Justice under Bill de Blasio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Assaults have just been skyrocketing, said Glazer, a former federal prosecutor. You have city cops, you have national guardsmen, you have MTA cops, you have on the clinician side nonprofits, you have the state funding things, you have the city funding things, but whos going where and when? Crime on the subway as a percentage of rides is still extremely rare, Glazer said, attributing the uptick in part to economic and emotional strains from the pandemic. But with weekday ridership still about 20% less than before Covid, each incident becomes that much more visible. A citywide surge in homelessness has complicated conditions on the subway. Some unhoused people have not only been blamed for the violence but have also become its most vulnerable victims. The subway is a daytime and nighttime place of last resort for New Yorkers who dont have anywhere else to go, especially when its very hot or very cold, said Danny Pearlstein, policy and communications director at Riders Alliance, an advocacy group. We need investments that address these crises. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Samantha Muscato, a pediatric occupational therapist at a hospital in Manhattan, says that when she rides the subway she stands up against a post far from the platform so that she cant be easily pushed. Her unease, she said, has gotten worse than when she rode the train alone to work during Covid. I used to do a lot more reading on the subway, she said. --With assistance from Sri Taylor and Alicia Clanton. (Updates with NYPD Commissioner Tisch and Mayor Adams comments starting in 17th paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. MASSENA, N.Y. (WWTI) State Police in Massena are requesting the publics assistance in locating Marcus A. Shatraw, 34, of Massena, NY. Marcus A. Shatraw, 34, of Massena, NY ( NYSP Facebook) Shatraw from the Town of Stockholm is wanted for an alleged assault and criminal trespassing. Police say that he is approximately 58 tall, weighs 160 lbs, and has white, brown hair, and blue eyes. State Police are asking that anyone with information on his whereabouts contact SP Massena, at 315-379-0012. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. DENVER (KDVR) A poison pellet that appears to have been legally dispensed was eaten by a dog while walking through the Tapestry Hills neighborhood, leading to an investigation. According to the Douglas County Sheriffs Office, the agencys animal law enforcement officers are investigating the recent incident, in which a dog ingested rodent poison while walking through the Tapestry Hills neighborhood. The agency did not share details of the dogs condition on Sunday afternoon, but FOX31s Alliyah Sims spoke with the dogs owner. Off-campus fire in Boulder forces 7 from apartments Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The dog, Emma, is an 11-month-old German Shepherd who was hospitalized for the poison. The dogs owner, Jens Loechert, told Sims that animal law enforcement told her the poison was not intentionally spread to kill animals like dogs, but was instead spread in a backyard and carried elsewhere by wildlife. The neighborhood appears to be located off Buffalo Trail, near Daniels Park, in Castle Pines. Emma, an 11-month-old German Shepherd, was hospitalized after eating a rodent poison pellet. (Courtesy Jens Loechert) This poison pellet was eaten by Emma, an 11-month-old German Shepherd, which caused her hospitalization. (Jens Loechert) Emma, an 11-month-old German Shepherd, was hospitalized after eating a rodent poison pellet. (Courtesy Jens Loechert) Animal Law Enforcement Officers are working to determine the exact number of tablets that would have come in the package that the individual purchased to determine if there is still a cause for concern for other neighbors in the area, said Douglas County Animal Law Enforcement Sgt. Bryanna Munns in a Douglas County Sheriffs Office release. This serves as a good reminder to take extra precautions when using rodent poison. Always consider the potential risks to pets, wildlife, and children in your community, Munns added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brian Decker walks his dog Sube in the same area often. I happened to go on Nextdoor and I saw that someone had posted their dog had actually gotten sick by ingesting some of these pellets then I immediately looked at where this was located and I realized it was really close to our house and where I typically walk, Decker said. So I read through all the different replies and was obviously interested because I have the dogs Im walking with most mornings. He told Sims that he hadnt seen any of the poison pellets, but said he was going to be on high alert and maybe start taking his dog walks in different areas. Thankfully our kids are not as small, they wouldnt pick that up and put it in their mouths, but of course, it would be concerning if they were just out in the backyard playing and that they would ingest it, Decker said. Its just good the original poster put it out there for people in the area for people to be on alert. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said he was concerned that the poison might be distributed by wildlife. Thats one of the great things I love about living in this area is that all the wildlife, the hawks, the birds, the deers and whatnot, Decker told Sims. So the pellets being out there and the wildlife potentially ingesting the pellets is really concerning to me, too. Its a little bit frustrating that that would be used to try to take care of a rodent problem that other animals can be harmed by it. Douglas County Sheriff Darren Weekly also weighed in on the incident. The safety of our community, including its pets, remains a top priority, he said in a sheriffs office release. We appreciate the cooperation of all residents as we work together to prevent incidents like this from happening again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Douglas County authorities recommend residents follow several safety tips when using rodent poison, including: Read and follow all label instructions carefully Place poisons only in areas that are inaccessible to pets and children Securely store unused poison in a safe location Monitor outdoor areas for signs that the poison may have been moved or scattered. Anyone who suspects their pet has ingested rodent poison should seek immediate veterinary care. Contact Douglas County Animal Law Enforcement at 303-660-7529 for more information. FOX31 Weather: View the latest Denver forecasts, maps and radar According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, pets often eat baits or poisoned rodents, leading to their own poisoning. If you are using rodenticides around your home and have pets, keep the original packaging or receipt so the type of poison can be identified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It can also be a good idea to make a list of where, when and how much poison is dispersed around your property. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. The failure of the police and prosecutors properly to investigate allegations of sexual abuse against gangs of mostly Pakistani-heritage men has come back to haunt those responsible. But what if the rest of the country was unable to debate this matter fully because the law forbade it? The Government is preparing to issue an official definition of so-called Islamophobia that could leave people open to prosecution if they were deemed to have said something disobliging about the religion. Some have likened this to the return of the old blasphemy laws that once protected Christian theology but were abandoned years ago, with Christianity now the one religion anyone is allowed to take a pot shot at. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Believers may find that hard to stomach but in a free country, religions should not be protected from criticism. Yet that is what is being considered for Islam and its adherents. The precise definition has yet to be decided and insiders say it would not be legally binding. But organisations would be urged to adopt it, as they no doubt would in the public sector. Free speech campaigners say a definition drafted by the All Party Parliamentary Group on British Muslims appears to state that using the phrase sex groomer in relation to a person of Muslim background may be Islamophobic. Whistleblowers who tried to bring the activities of these men to the attention of the authorities in Rotherham, Oldham and other towns have been accused of racism for doing so. The toxic nature of this debate has even drawn the worlds richest man, Elon Musk, into the fray, who has used the X platform that he owns to attack Labour ministers and now Reform leader Nigel Farage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A simple way to avoid escalation is for Labour to drop the whole idea of an official definition of Islamophobia. It is inimical to free expression and corrosive of public trust. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Lawmakers in the Ohio House of Representatives selected Speaker Matt Huffman, a Lima Republican, to lead them for the next two years. After years of tumultuous leadership fights, FBI investigations and GOP infighting, Huffman's unanimous selection was extraordinary only because of how ordinary it was. Stay informed: Sign up for The Scoop, our weekly newsletter on Ohio politics The sole hurdle was weather-related: Legislators traversed inclement weather, including near-record snowfall in Cincinnati, to attend Monday's opening ceremonies. Advertisement Advertisement Lawmakers picked Huffman, who recently served four years as Ohio Senate president before winning a House seat, to lead the House for the next two years. Huffman, 64, can serve for eight years if voters and legislators keep electing him. Outgoing Ohio Senate President Matt Huffman leaves the Senate as he heads over to Ohio House of Representatives to assume the role of Speaker as the Ohio General Assembly convenes the 136th legislative session at the Ohio Statehouse on Monday, January 6, 2025. During his first address as House speaker, Huffman promised a professional, fact-based and thorough process for lawmaking. If we do this right there will be more smiles than tears, Huffman said. More: Who's Matt Huffman? The Lima man running the show at the Ohio Statehouse In a November internal vote, House Republicans picked Huffman as their next leader shortly after House Speaker Jason Stephens, R-Kitts Hill, dropped out of the race. GOP infighting loomed over much of Stephens' two-year term after Democrats helped elect him as speaker in 2023 and Huffman decided to challenge Stephens for the top spot. Advertisement Advertisement Before that, two House speakers left under the cloud of FBI investigations. (One was convicted of a pay-to-play scheme, while the other was never charged.) Two GOP speakers won the top job with help from Democrats an unorthodox approach that infuriated fellow Republicans. But Monday's vote had none of that intrigue. Incoming Ohio Senate President Rob McColley (left) laughs with outgoing President Matt Huffman who is the new speaker of the House on Monday, January 6, 2025. Doral Chenoweth, Doral Chenoweth/The Columbus Dispatch What can Ohioans expect from Huffman's speakership? He backs school choice, including taxpayer-funded vouchers for children to attend private schools; lowering the state's income tax; changing higher education, including eliminating diversity, equity and inclusion programs; tackling energy policy and limiting access to legal marijuana approved by voters in 2023. Allison Russo (D-Upper Arlington) speaks as she assumes the role of minority leader as the Ohio General Assembly convenes the 136th legislative session at the Ohio Statehouse on Monday, January 6, 2025. In addition to Huffman, House Minority Leader Allison Russo, D-Upper Arlington, was once again selected to lead fellow Democrats. Russo is one of several Democrats who could run for governor in 2026 when GOP Gov. Mike DeWine is term-limited. Four Republicans voted against her leadership team. Advertisement Advertisement It is our responsibility to put people over politics whenever we can, Russo told her colleagues. Together, we can get more done for this state than we ever imagined. Ohio Senate President Rob McColley (R-Napoleon) smiles as the Ohio General Assembly convenes the 136th legislative session at the Ohio Statehouse on Monday, January 6, 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Rob McColley to lead Ohio Senate In the Ohio Senate, lawmakers officially picked Rob McColley, a Napoleon Republican, as Senate president for the next two years. He previously served as Senate majority leader and in the Ohio House. "Ohio, I believe, is at a crossroads right now," McColley told senators. "I believe that if we work together, our best days are in front of us." Democrat Nickie Antonio, of Lakewood, will continue to serve as Senate minority leader, the top Democratic role in that chamber. Republicans will hold a veto-proof majority for the next two years with 65 of the 99 seats in the House and 24 of 33 seats in the Senate. The GOP also holds all but one statewide elected office. Democrat Nickie Antonio serves as Senate minority leader. Jessie Balmert covers state government and politics for the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau, which serves the Columbus Dispatch, Cincinnati Enquirer, Akron Beacon Journal and 18 other affiliated news organizations across Ohio. This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: It's official: Matt Huffman is Ohio's next House speaker SPARTANBURG COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) An internal investigation is underway in Spartanburg County after a telecommunicator reportedly refused to assist a 911 caller. Spartanburg 911 announced Friday that officials were made aware of a video circulating on social media regarding a 911 call with one of their operators. We take these matters very seriously and are thoroughly reviewing the situation to understand what happened and how it was handled, officials said. We want to express our sincerest apologies to the caller involved. We are deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of this individual, just as we are with all County residents who should trust they can call us when they need help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Spartanburg 911, officials stated during the call that the telecommunicator dispatched an officer to the scene. However, law enforcement reported that they were unable to locate anyone at the location. Spartanburg 911 said an investigation has been initiated due to no follow-up response when the caller provided additional information to the telecommunicator. Refusing service or assistance in situations like this is not in alignment with our policies or our core values, and this matter will be directly addressed with the telecommunicator involved, officials said. We also recognize that the interaction between our telecommunicator and the caller did not meet the standards of professionalism and compassion we strive to uphold. Officials said they plan to address the incident with the telecommunicator and will provide additional training to the staff to ensure similar incidents are handled appropriately in the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We deeply regret the distress caused to the caller in this case and the concern this has raised within our community, officials said. Please know that we do not take this matter lightly and are implementing measures to prevent similar occurrences moving forward. On Saturday, Spartanburg 911 provided an update to the incident. Officials said the operator did take additional steps after the call, directing the officer to go back to the scene and contact the caller. The statement reads in part: We acknowledge that this was not communicated to the caller at the time. Instead, the telecommunicator ended the call without informing the caller of the steps being taken on her behalf. This lack of communication caused the caller and her family undue stress, and we deeply regret the negative impact this had on them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident remains under investigation according to officials. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. In what would normally be a picturesque valley landscape surrounded by mountains, an area in Salt Lake County became an ugly wasteland of old rubber tires. The sheer number of tires a couple of thousand, Salt Lake County health officials estimated is the result of a concerning illegal dumping problem that has been going on in the area for some time, according to KSL News, which called the latest act "incomprehensible." Dumped at the site along with the tires were two boats and a refrigerator. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's really sad," Hayley Shaffer of the Salt Lake County Health Department told KSL News. "It's heartbreaking that people don't care about the environment." Sadly, illegal dumping in the United States is quite common, with 1.5 million tons of trash being dumped each year or about 4,109 tons of trash every day. According to one study cited by the Environmental Protection Agency, old tires are among the most frequently dumped items, followed by refrigerators and other heavy objects. Dumped tires, especially in large quantities, are extremely harmful to the environment as well as the plants and animals that call it home. Tires are manufactured with a chemical cocktail of carcinogens, radioactive compounds, and microplastics, so as they break down in whatever environment they are dumped in, those chemicals leach into soil and local waterways. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dumped trash can also become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and rats. In fact, dumpsites with tires create ideal conditions for mosquito reproduction, with mosquitoes multiplying at a jaw-dropping rate of 100 times faster than normal, according to the EPA. More mosquitoes and rats increases the likelihood that humans will contract severe illnesses, such as dengue fever, hantavirus, and even the plague. As authorities searched for the perpetrators, a cleanup of the dumping ground was anticipated, but not without a price. Do you think America could ever go zero-waste? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind The last cleanup of the area cost $20,000. However, this time authorities expected it to cost more. "If the people who dumped here just did their due diligence and cared about the environment, they would take it to the landfill," Shaffer told KSL News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Frustrations about the illegal dumping are compounded by the fact that a city landfill is just a short walk from the dumping site. "We have dumps for a reason," one person wrote in the comments of KSL News' coverage. "There is no excuse for this behavior," another person said. "I'd be willing to help clean those up," someone else wrote. "So sad that people are so careless about their own environment." Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Photo by Getty Images. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yosts appeal of a decision to strike down the states six-week abortion ban is working its way through the system, now in the hands of the First District Court of Appeals. The appellate court has set a deadline of late February for the AGs office to file briefs challenging a Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas decision that eliminated enforcement of the six-week abortion ban included in Senate Bill 23, passed by lawmakers and signed by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine in 2019, and put into effect for several months in 2022 after Roe v. Wade was overturned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Hamilton County court ruled the law unconstitutional based on the reproductive rights constitutional amendment passed by Ohio voters in November 2023. Attorney General Yosts appeal asks the higher court to reconsider Hamilton County Judge Christian Jenkins decision. Under the amendment passed by voters, viability is determined by a physician. Fetal viability typically comes in a range between 24 to 26 weeks. The Attorney Generals Office argues that other parts of the law apart from the six-week ban should be preserved despite the amendment. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade in June 2022, Yost asked a federal court to lift its block on the six-week ban, which it did. Abortion rights groups then took it back to court, first in the Ohio Supreme Court, and then in the Hamilton County court. When the reproductive rights amendment passed in 2023, attorneys fighting against the ban had a new avenue to argue by citing the new amendment as proof the six-week ban was unconstitutional. Before the amendment was passed, Yost had said the measure would in fact cause Ohio laws to be invalidated, including the six-week ban. But when pushing against the lawsuit in Hamilton County, state attorneys argued that while some parts of the law may be negated by the amendment, the entire law shouldnt be tossed, nor should other laws merely because they relate to abortion rights. A spokesperson for the AGs office further pointed to the other provisions of the law in a statement released when Yost filed the appeal with the First District. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seeking appellate review is a necessary and appropriate step. The state respects the will of the people regarding the six-week abortion ban, but the state is also obligated to protect provisions in S.B. 23, as passed by the General Assembly and signed by the Governor, that the constitutional amendment does not address, according to spokesperson Bethany McCorkle. It is up to the courts to determine how conflicts between those two documents are resolved. Jenkins agreed with abortion rights advocates in his October ruling, saying the state constitution now unequivocally protects the right to abortion. Despite the adoption of a broad and strongly worded constitutional amendment, in this case and others, the State of Ohio seeks not to uphold the constitutional protection of abortion rights, but to diminish and limit it, Jenkins wrote. In November, the Ohio Attorney Generals Office filed their notice of appeal with the First District Court. To succeed in the appeal, the AG will have to prove that Jenkins erred on questions of law in ruling in favor of the abortions rights groups. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The appellate court set a Feb. 21 deadline for the Yosts office to file an explanation of the legal errors they want the court to consider. Once that is filed, attorneys for abortion rights advocates will have until mid-March to file their own arguments. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE A Pataskala woman was mauled, killed and partially eaten by her neighbor's pigs on Christmas Day, according to the city's police chief. Rebecca Westergaard, 75, of Pataskala, died after being attacked by two pigs that were roaming near her Mink Street home, Pataskala Police Chief Bruce Brooks told The Dispatch on Monday. Westergaard's niece called Pataskala police at 2:47 p.m. for a welfare check after no one could reach Westergaard. She was supposed to leave her home in the 4000 block of Mink Street, where she lived alone, at 10:30 a.m. to go to her niece's home in Norton, Ohio, just outside of Akron, according to the police's incident report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Westergaard was found on her property near the house, Brooks said. Brooks called the case a "horrible, horrible situation," but could not share much information as the case is still under investigation, adding that the department will share more once Westergaard's full autopsy results are completed in four to six weeks. The two pigs were owned by a neighbor. Brooks said he was unsure what will happen to the pigs or whether their owner will be charged criminally. The department, he said, is in touch with the Licking County Prosecutors' Office over the case. As of now, the pigs owner has not been charged with a crime, Brooks said, and he did not release the owner's identity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brooks said while Ohio law has a clear process for when dogs attack and kill someone, there aren't any laws about livestock that officers or prosecutors have found. "If it was a pit bull or a Rottweiler, or name any of the other 15 dogs that are deemed semi aggressive, then we would know the answer right away," he said. "But being farm animals, it's just not something we've ever dealt with here." mdevito@gannett.com This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Ohio woman killed, partially eaten by neighbor's pigs on Christmas Theres an ongoing melodrama over a jail in Oklahoma County that showcases government ineptitude at its finest. It involves two powerful government entities engaged in a nasty lawsuit; a state attorney general meddling in litigation that shouldnt be his business; dense county commissioners who seem content with throwing vulnerable people to the wolves; a city council who has dug in their heels and refused to give permission to build a new county jail; and business leaders and residents who feel like public officials arent taking their concerns seriously. And, dont forget all the taxpayers and business owners who are learning that county leaders sold them a crock of poo in promising that a jail could be built for $260 million when in reality its going to take more than twice that amount. Its a massive calculation blunder that will likely result in a new sales tax, property tax hikes or having to pay interest on the equivalent of a public-private loan to fix. Or maybe all of the above. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Id normally say pull out your popcorn and settle in for the show, but this is an episodic soap opera that we should all resolve to skip. More: Opponents rail against OK County commissioners, but the new county jail will move forward Because while this brawl seemingly affects Oklahomas most populous county and capital city, this is a cautionary tale for Oklahomans statewide about the importance of ensuring leaders of all levels have their ducks in a row before putting things on the ballot. The fallout could also be felt throughout the state in precedent-setting court decisions and opinions. Already, Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond has imprudently waded into the ongoing lawsuit between Oklahoma City and County and issued an opinion insisting that a county can overrule a citys zoning laws in instances like this. Such opinions have force of law unless otherwise decided by a court. Its done nothing to end the lawsuit. Oklahoma County commissioners plan to build a new jail at site on Grand Boulevard in southeast Oklahoma City. It may also highlight the need for legislation to protect voters when government officials badly bungle the projected costs of any infrastructure project or cant get it off the ground in a timely manner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roughly 61,000 Oklahoma County voters in June 2022 threw their support behind the $260 million plan, but theres still no jail. In fact, our officials have proven so inept, that over two years later, the ground hasnt even been broken. After voters greenlighted the project, we discovered that county commissioners had no inkling of where to build it except that they were bound and determined not to put it downtown on its current site, mere blocks from the county courthouse and amid well-established infrastructure designed to support inmates and their families. After months of indecision, commissioners inexplicably settled on a roughly 60-acre site at 1901 E. Grand Boulevard in east Oklahoma City. They picked that spot despite stark opposition from the Oklahoma City Council, who made it clear that the land isnt zoned for a correctional facility and that they have no plans to rezone it. The site is an odd choice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If youve ever driven in along East Grand Boulevard, youll quickly notice that the area is not walkable or public transportation-friendly. In fact, its a 2.1 mile walk to the nearest bus stop, according to the countys public transit operator. There is not a single law office, bail bond company or public defender in close proximity to the site. And it is over 4 miles away from the countys courthouse and the Oklahoma City downtown. Its a stones throw from neighboring Del City, which also does not want it built there. Theres also a school, day cares and residences within a mile. Oklahoma County needs a new jail. The current one, which opened in 1991, has been plagued by detainee deaths, inmate escapes and poor living conditions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But there are a lot of alarming questions about what the county plans to do with the inmates it releases from the facility given theyve picked an area with no supportive resources. Thats understandably a huge concern to leaders from both cities. County leaders have acknowledged that the city wants detainees to be bused away, but county commissioners, bless their hearts, have said the city can pay to maintain a bus stop there, but its a civil liberties breakdown to bus them away. Apparently they feel like its just fine to release detainees by simply wishing them luck and allowing them to wander aimlessly in the area If county leaders want to build a jail in a place where there is no infrastructure to support it, fine. But they need to figure out a path forward that doesnt create a new public nuisance, and they need to take some responsibility for connecting those released back to the resources which will now be miles away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Morally and ethically, they shouldnt just dump vulnerable individuals in an area thats not equipped to support them and say what happens next is on them. Because its everybodys problem to ensure that people released from custody have the support to keep them from reoffending or a place to go to begin rebuilding their lives. Maybe the solution is as simple as using the current facility downtown as a reception and discharge facility. If someone bails out or is ordered released, then the county drives them downtown and releases them from there. It would add another layer of protection to ensure people arent mistakenly released and address community concerns. In any case, maybe its time for state leaders to consider legislation requiring another vote of the people if a project is stalled for more than two years or has doubled in cost beyond what was first promised. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because voters everywhere deserve the reassurance that our public officials arent going to pull a bait-and-switch on them by suckering them into an unending spending spree thats well beyond what they agreed to at the ballot box. Janelle Stecklein Janelle Stecklein is editor of Oklahoma Voice. An award-winning journalist, Stecklein has been covering Oklahoma government and politics since moving to the state in 2014. Oklahoma Voice is part of States Newsroom, the nations largest state-focused nonprofit news organization. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OK County voters approved a jail. It still hasn't been built | Opinion Oklahoma County commissioners plan to build a new jail at site on Grand Boulevard in southeast Oklahoma City. (Photo by Janelle Stecklein/Oklahoma Voice) Theres an ongoing melodrama over a jail in Oklahoma County that showcases government ineptitude at its finest. It involves two powerful government entities engaged in a nasty lawsuit; a state attorney general meddling in litigation that shouldnt be his business; dense county commissioners who seem content with throwing vulnerable people to the wolves; a city council who has dug in their heels and refused to give permission to build a new county jail; and business leaders and residents who feel like public officials arent taking their concerns seriously. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And, dont forget all the taxpayers and business owners who are learning that county leaders sold them a crock of poo in promising that a jail could be built for $260 million when in reality its going to take more than twice that amount. Its a massive calculation blunder that will likely result in a new sales tax, property tax hikes or having to pay interest on the equivalent of a public-private loan to fix. Or maybe all of the above. Id normally say pull out your popcorn and settle in for the show, but this is an episodic soap opera that we should all resolve to skip. Because while this brawl seemingly affects Oklahomas most populous county and capital city, this is a cautionary tale for Oklahomans statewide about the importance of ensuring leaders of all levels have their ducks in a row before putting things on the ballot. The fallout could also be felt throughout the state in precedent-setting court decisions and opinions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Already, Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond has imprudently waded into the ongoing lawsuit between Oklahoma City and County and issued an opinion insisting that a county can overrule a citys zoning laws in instances like this. Such opinions have force of law unless otherwise decided by a court. Its done nothing to end the lawsuit. It may also highlight the need for legislation to protect voters when government officials badly bungle the projected costs of any infrastructure project or cant get it off the ground in a timely manner. Roughly 61,000 Oklahoma County voters in June 2022 threw their support behind the $260 million plan, but theres still no jail. In fact, our officials have proven so inept, that over two years later, the ground hasnt even been broken. After voters greenlighted the project, we discovered that county commissioners had no inkling of where to build it except that they were bound and determined not to put it downtown on its current site, mere blocks from the county courthouse and amid well-established infrastructure designed to support inmates and their families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After months of indecision, commissioners inexplicably settled on a roughly 60-acre site at 1901 E. Grand Boulevard in east Oklahoma City. They picked that spot despite stark opposition from the Oklahoma City Council, who made it clear that the land isnt zoned for a correctional facility and that they have no plans to rezone it. The site is an odd choice. If youve ever driven in along East Grand Boulevard, youll quickly notice that the area is not walkable or public transportation-friendly. In fact, its a 2.1 mile walk to the nearest bus stop, according to the countys public transit operator. There is not a single law office, bail bond company or public defender in close proximity to the site. And it is over 4 miles away from the countys courthouse and the Oklahoma City downtown. Its a stones throw from neighboring Del City, which also does not want it built there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres also a school, day cares and residences within a mile. Oklahoma County needs a new jail. The current one, which opened in 1991, has been plagued by detainee deaths, inmate escapes and poor living conditions. But there are a lot of alarming questions about what the county plans to do with the inmates it releases from the facility given theyve picked an area with no supportive resources. Thats understandably a huge concern to leaders from both cities. County leaders have acknowledged that the city wants detainees to be bused away, but county commissioners, bless their hearts, have said the city can pay to maintain a bus stop there, but its a civil liberties breakdown to bus them away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Apparently they feel like its just fine to release detainees by simply wishing them luck and allowing them to wander aimlessly in the area If county leaders want to build a jail in a place where there is no infrastructure to support it, fine. But they need to figure out a path forward that doesnt create a new public nuisance, and they need to take some responsibility for connecting those released back to the resources which will now be miles away. Morally and ethically, they shouldnt just dump vulnerable individuals in an area thats not equipped to support them and say what happens next is on them. Because its everybodys problem to ensure that people released from custody have the support to keep them from reoffending or a place to go to begin rebuilding their lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maybe the solution is as simple as using the current facility downtown as a reception and discharge facility. If someone bails out or is ordered released, then the county drives them downtown and releases them from there. It would add another layer of protection to ensure people arent mistakenly released and address community concerns. In any case, maybe its time for state leaders to consider legislation requiring another vote of the people if a project is stalled for more than two years or has doubled in cost beyond what was first promised. Because voters everywhere deserve the reassurance that our public officials arent going to pull a bait-and-switch on them by suckering them into an unending spending spree thats well beyond what they agreed to at the ballot box. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Sean Burrage speaks to the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education after he was named the next chancellor for higher education with a unanimous vote in October at the regents' offices in Oklahoma City. He was officially sworn in Dec. 5. (Photo by Emma Murphy/Oklahoma Voice) OKLAHOMA CITY Chancellor Sean Burrage plans to use his experiences in Oklahoma education to get more students from the state interested in pursuing higher education. I hope that we can spread the message that higher education is accessible in Oklahoma, Burrage said. And the end result being a higher number of degree holders in Oklahoma, which in turn makes up a more educated workforce, which will drive the economy. So all this is about providing opportunity to Oklahomans and driving our economy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Burrage, sworn in Dec. 5, is the 10th chancellor to lead the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education. This state system includes 25 state colleges and universities. Burrage outlined other priorities, including meeting workforce needs, working with the private sector and keeping tuition affordable during a recent interview with Oklahoma Voice. He said Blueprint 2030, the strategic plan by the regents to produce workforce-ready graduates by focusing on student success and improving system efficiency, sums up his priorities as chancellor. Burrage served on the planning committee for Blueprint 2030. Meeting workforce needs in Oklahoma, specifically in critical operations such as teachers, nurses and engineers, remains a priority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want to make sure were working closely with the private sector to make sure that the people that are coming out of our colleges and universities have the skill set to meet the needs of those businesses, he said. College degrees are one thing, but college degrees that meet workforce needs are even better. Keeping tuition affordable will remain a priority of the state regents and chancellor, but Burrage said he wants greater accountability from colleges and universities. He said institutions will be asked to present their composite financial index, which is a number that measures the overall financial health of the institutions, and what theyre doing to make college affordable and accessible. A product of Oklahoma public education Burrage said he is a product of the Oklahoma education system and he has dedicated his life to improving higher education in the state. Born in Durant and raised in Antlers, Burrage is a member of the Choctaw Nation. He graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a bachelors in accounting and a law degree. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He previously served as the vice president for executive affairs and chief of staff at OU and as president of Southeastern Oklahoma State University. From 2011 to 2014 he served as minority floor leader of the Oklahoma Senate and was elected twice to represent Rogers and Mayes Counties. Burrage also was a managing partner with Taylor Burrage Law Firm in Claremore. OU President Joseph Harroz said in a statement that Burrages time at OU helped to shape some of the universitys most significant achievements. To know Sean is to experience his quick wit, grounded nature, and sincere connection with others, he said in a statement. Its these qualities, beyond his professional contributions, that make him such a cherished friend and colleague to so many of us. We are indebted to him for his selfless service both to the university and to our state and its citizens and there is no doubt that his dedication will continue moving our state forward as Oklahomas 10th Chancellor. Liz Cobb McCraw, vice president for student affairs at Southeastern Oklahoma State University, said that Burrage is uniquely qualified for the role of chancellor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is keenly aware of the duty we have to all the people of Oklahoma, she said in a statement. He is a public servant and has spent his career in service to the people of Oklahoma. Burrage said his leadership style has been influenced by Oklahomans such as Harroz and David Boren, a former U.S. senator and OU president. Watching those individuals and their leadership styles has been a big part of how Ive developed my own style, he said. Ive always tried to be open and accessible. I hope Im relatable. I try to have empathy for whoever Im meeting with, to try to see their point of view. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Rep. Rick West, R-Heavener, left, and Tom Gann, R-Inola, watch legislative proceedings on May 30, 2024, at the state Capitol. West and Gann are two of the lawmakers who filed the appeal of a Corporation Commission order. (Photo by Janelle Stecklein/Oklahoma Voice) OKLAHOMA CITY Three Republican lawmakers filed an appeal with the Oklahoma Supreme Court Dec. 19 in an effort to overturn an $127 million OG&E rate increase approved by the Corporation Commission. The lawmakers also hope to disqualify Todd Hiett as a voting member of the Corporation Commission. Their appeal argues Hiett is not an impartial voter in certain cases before the commission because of alleged criminal conduct. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The trio Reps. Tom Gann, R-Inola, Kevin West, R-Moore, and Rick West, R-Heavener labelled themselves in their appeal as captive customers of Oklahoma Gas and Electric, or OG&E, and said they are directly affected by the rate increase, which is about $10 per month for the average residential consumer. The same three lawmakers previously sued Hiett, but the high court unanimously decided Dec. 10 that Hiett can continue to vote on Corporation Commission cases. In a concurring opinion from this lawsuit, Justice Douglas Combs wrote that the men and other ratepayers are not considered aggrieved until a final order is issued from the Corporation Commission. Then, he said, an appeal may be brought directly to the Oklahoma Supreme Court. A final order has not been issued, according to a spokesperson from the Corporation Commission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, in response to comments from Justice Douglas L. Combs made on Dec. 9, we have filed an appeal at the Oklahoma Supreme Court seeking to overturn the Oklahoma Corporation Commissions recent order granting Oklahoma Gas and Electric a $127 million rate increase, the lawmakers wrote in a joint statement. Hiett cast the deciding vote in that case, even though we believe state ethics rules say he should not have participated. Their December appeal says that they have identified at least 15 utility rate cases involving attorneys with direct knowledge of alleged criminal conduct by Hiett. The Oklahoman reported that in June, Hiett was observed groping a man and being intoxicated at an out-of-state regulatory conference and that he has also been accused of drunken driving after a 2023 event in Oklahoma City. Hiett told the newspaper he drank too much in June but does not remember the incident and that he is getting treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response to the December appeal, an attorney appointed by the Corporation Commission wrote that the body does not object to the Supreme Court taking up the appeal and will further address the matter in future filings. The Corporation Commission is a three person body that regulates various industries in Oklahoma, from the states public utilities to its towing and oil industries. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Voters cast their ballots on Nov. 5, 2024, at a polling location in Edmond. (Photo by Janelle Stecklein/Oklahoma Voice) OKLAHOMA CITY Supporters of open primaries have refiled their initiative petition to clarify some concerns. State Question 835 has been refiled as State Question 836. We are refiling our initiative petition out of an abundance of caution, said Robert McCampbell, an attorney for petition supporters. While SQ 835 was clear and legally sound, we dont want to allow (an) opportunity for misinterpretation that could overshadow the real purpose of this initiative ensuring every voter in Oklahoma has a voice in our elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new wording clarifies that the constitutional provisions do not impact the selection of presidential electors and ensures that the initiative only addresses the process for partisan primary elections at the state, county and federal levels. Presidential elections would be unaffected. The new language also clarifies that candidates will appear on the ballot identified by party registration. The old language used the term affiliation. Supporters said they are confident the initiative petition will withstand any legal challenge. Under the proposal, Oklahoma primaries would be open to all voters with the top two vote getters advancing to the general election. Voters would only be able to choose one candidate for each office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Supporters need 172,993 signatures to get the measure on the ballot. They are hoping to get it on the November 2026 ballot. Oklahoma primaries are closed, but parties can choose to open them to independents. Only Democrats currently allow independents to vote in their primaries. Many races are decided in the primary or primary runoff, leaving some voters with no candidate to pick in the general election, where voter turnout is higher. Republicans control all Oklahoma congressional seats, statewide elected offices and the Legislature. The filing of the initiative petition was announced in November. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE With 2024 in the rear-view mirror, it's time for a report card on Ryan Walters' performance as superintendent of Oklahoma's public schools. With legislators and others calling for more accountability in how taxpayer money for public schools is being spent, The Oklahoman is asking its readers to give Walters a grade for his work in 2024. Did he earn an "A?" An "F?" Or something in between? Please check the appropriate box in the poll below and add a comment if you'd like. Be sure to add your name and hometown. To help with your decision, listed below is a chronology of some of Walters' key actions during the year: December Walters posted a video on social media announcing that Oklahoma will have no "sanctuary schools," and that the state will work with the administration of President-elect Donald Trump to help end illegal immigration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walters released revised social studies curriculum requirements for state schools. November Walters announced support for eliminating the U.S. Department of Education October Along with Gov. Kevin Stitt, Walters was called "grossly negligent" by the state's multi-county grand jury for misspending millions of dollars of COVID pandemic relief funds. On "Indigenous People's Day, Walters posted on Facebook a message honoring "the historic accomplishment of Christopher Columbus' voyage that ultimately discovered the New World." Ryan Walters speaks at a roundtable at the Warner Public School Event Center in Warner Okla., on Wednesday, April 26, 2023. Walters was criticized by Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond for delaying the purchase of emergency asthma inhalers for public schools. September Walters called for $500,000 for teacher firearm training. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walters called for Bibles to be provided for all Oklahoma classrooms. Bidding documents show only the "Trump Bible" would qualify for purchase. August Walters confirmed that Oklahoma's testing process for schools has been changed significantly without any public notification. July Walters announced new requirement for teaching the Bible in public schools and said "rouge schools" who don't comply will be held accountable. June Oklahoma Supreme Court ruled that school districts, not Walters or the state education department, have the authority to choose books for school libraries. May In the wake of news reports about Walters' out-of-state spending, the Oklahoma Legislature passed a bill prohibiting state funds to be used (unless required by law) "for securing media interviews, public relations, or other public promotional purposes. Gov. Kevin Stitt used the line-item veto to delete those sections of the law before signing the bill, but then issued an executive order prohibiting spending public money on such items. April At least 65 people had left their jobs with the Oklahoma State Department of Education since July of the previous year, according to resignation letters and termination forms obtained by The Oklahoman. That raised the total number of employees who had departed the agency since state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters took office to more than 130. March Records released showing Walters billed taxpayers thousands of dollars for out-of-state trips to appear on talk shows and make other public appearances. February Walters said the fact that he was elected by voters gives him the authority to choose books for school libraries. A lawsuit was filed opposing this claim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walters said two books in the Edmond high school libraries contained pornographic material and threatened to lower the district's accreditation score if they were not removed. January After an error in awarding bonuses to teachers, Walters announced the state was demanding the money be paid back. He has yet to acknowledge any error on his part or on the part of the state Department of Education in the matter. Two teachers who received the bonus in error are suing Walters. Walters announced the appointment of right-wing blogger Chaya Raichik to the state's Library Media Advisory Committee. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoman Poll: Give Ryan Walters a grade for his performance in 2024 COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) One person is hospitalized after a shooting Sunday afternoon in east Columbus. According to a Columbus police dispatcher, officers responded to a reported shooting near the intersection of Chatterton Road and Falcon Bridge Drive at approximately 4 p.m. The victim was taken to a local hospital in an unstable condition. There is no further information available at this time. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A man was taken to the hospital on Sunday following a fire at an apartment complex in Hartford. Crews at 8:40 p.m. responded to an occupied multi-unit apartment building at 402 Albany Ave. on the report of a fire and discovered a third floor unit was burning, according to the Hartford Fire Department. The flames were quickly put out and were contained to the apartment of origin, fire officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A man was pulled from the apartment and was treated on scene for possible smoke inhalation. The man was conscious and alert and was taken to an area hospital, officials said. No other injuries were reported. None of the occupants of the building were displaced, fire officials said. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. (WFRV) Health officials in Wisconsin say they are encouraging Wisconsinites throughout the Badger State to test their homes, their properties, and their schools for radon. According to a release from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, radon is a colorless, odorless gas that can seep into homes at deadly levels with one out of every ten homes in Wisconsin having elevated levels. Two people and a UTV rescued after falling through ice in Wisconsin, driver arrested for first OWI offense Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Health officials add that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer and there are 962 Wisconsinites that currently have radon-induced lung cancer. While radon can affect anyone and any house or building can be at risk for high levels, officials are certain that it is easy to test for and leaks can be fixed. Knowing about radon and testing radon levels in your home can save lives. In Wisconsin, we have 17 Radon Information Centers around the state where experts are available to answer your questions and offer low-cost test kits. Indoor radon levels tend to increase during the colder months, so now is the perfect time to test your home or building for radon if you havent before. DHS State Health Officer Paula Tran Reduced-cost test kits are said to be available to all Wisconsin residents through their regional Radon Information Center with test kit promotions going on throughout January. All schools are reportedly recommended to test for high levels of radon at least once every five years or after the completion of any major renovations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials say landlords have a responsibility to provide safe living and working conditions to their tenants and should work with a certified radon testing contractor or a mitigation contractor to address any potential radon issue. Police arrest suspect of Green Bay hit-and-run that left five people hurt Homeowners are encouraged by the DHS to use the resources found here to contact a certified contractor for solutions if their home is found to have a high level of radon. For more information about the DHSs recommendations on radon testing click here. For more information on radon itself, click here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. One of the most dangerous people convicted in connection with the January 6, 2021 Capitol riots is asking for a pardon from Donald Trump. Enrique Tarrio, the former leader of the fascist Proud Boys organization, was convicted for seditious conspiracy for helping to orchestrate the attack on Congress during the certification of the 2020 presidential election and sentenced to 22 years in prison, the longest of any January 6 defendant. Tarrio made a request for a pardon through his lawyer Nayib Hassan, who wrote a letter to the Department of Justice which was posted to X Monday morning by his mother, Zuny Tarrio. An X post from Zuny Tarrio, the mother of former Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio, posting a letter from her son's lawyer asking Donald Trump's Justice Department for a presidential pardon. In 2023, federal prosecutors described Tarrio as the main force behind bringing hundreds of Proud Boys to Washington in 2021 to protest the election results and march to the Capitol building. Several of the organizations leaders were the first rioters to break into the Capitol, including one lieutenant, Dominic Pezzola. Trump has repeatedly promised to pardon rioters involved in the attacks, even hiring one for his transition team, but has also said that some rioters were out of control and may still face consequences. However, as the leader of the Proud Boys at the time, Tarrio is arguably the most extreme of the defendants, and pardoning him would show that Trump wants to reward the insurrectionists rather than make a token gesture to his supporters. President Bidens decision to block the sale of United States Steel to the Japanese company Nippon Steel is a back to the future moment in American politics. The move is a victory for forces in the Democratic Party who want to turn back the clock to a time before the party endorsed free trade and globalization. It also echoes what another Democratic president, Harry Truman, did 70 years ago when he seized steel mills in this country. Like Biden, Truman acted in the name of national security. Nippon first made its bid in December 2023. It wanted to invest in the United States because of Bidens use of tax incentives and subsidies to spur domestic production. Buying U.S. Steel would enable it to capitalize on the U.S. industrial rebound. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The proposed purchase of U.S. Steel by a foreign company also signified the declining fortunes of Americas industrial giants. U.S. Steel, as the Washington Post notes, boasts an impressive history: It was the nations first billion-dollar corporation, was formed by industrial heroes including John D. Rockefeller and provided the raw material that helped win World War II. But, the Post explains, it no longer is the industrial titan it once was. Today it employs half as many workers as it did 20 years ago and has lost money in nine of the past 15 years. At one time, the Nippon deal would have been welcomed, especially by leaders of the Democratic Party. It would have been regarded as a natural and healthy sign of a well-functioning global economic market. But no more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In light of Donald Trumps November victory, some commentators have been encouraging Democrats and those on the left (to) start acting more like Republicans, the MAGA movement especially. At the heart of such an imitation is the sincerest form of flattery approach would be policies to encourage manufacturing in the United States. During the presidential campaign, Trump made his opposition to the sale of United States Steel crystal clear. He reiterated that position last month when he said: I am totally against the once great and powerful U.S. Steel being bought by a foreign company, in this case Nippon Steel of Japan. I will block this deal from happening. Buyer Beware!!! Embracing Trumps brand of a populist protectionism would have been anathema to the two previous Democratic presidents, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. When he was in office, President Clinton talked about globalization as an inexorable force that would, in his view, benefit America and American workers. One sympathetic retrospective on his presidency gave him credit for telling the American people that nations around the world could not dam up the tides of globalization nor tell their people to sink or swim on their own. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Encouraging foreign direct investment in this country, like the Nippons purchase, was a key part of Clintons response to a globalizing economy. Between 1992 and 2000, it increased from $30 billion a year to over $300 billion a year. And, following Clinton, President Obama proudly announced in 2013 the first-ever comprehensive, all hands on deck effort led by the federal government to bring jobs and investment from around the world to the U.S. Obama was eager to take credit for making the United States the top destination for foreign direct investment. On his watch, foreign direct investment increased by more than $100 billion dollars. But that was then. Today we are living in a world increasingly dominated by economic nationalism and protectionism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During President Trumps first term, foreign direct investment in this country plummeted, partially fueled by the pandemic. In 2020 it fell back to its lowest level since 2005. In Bidens first year, it rebounded to its pre-pandemic levels. But it has dropped every year since. As the Carnegie Endowment for Peaces Bentley Allen reports, the Biden administration articulated the core principles of a new international economic order centered on industrial policy. In this vision, the U.S. government will take an active role in reshaping supply chains to ensure its national security, fight climate change, and reduce inequality. This brings us back to what Biden did about the United States Steel sale. Here we can see how an industrial policy with an emphasis on national security works, and how Bidens decision would have made Harry Truman proud. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In announcing his decision, the president relied on authority granted to him under Section 721 of the Defense Production Act of 1950. Among other things, that act authorizes the president to ensure the ability of the domestic industrial base to supply materials and services for the national defense. Biden prohibited the proposed sale because he found credible evidence that, should it acquire United States Steel, Nippon might take action that threatens to impair the national security of the United States. That decision came after the Committee of Foreign Investment in the United States, made up of representatives from several federal agencies, made no formal recommendation to the president concerning Nippons bid. It cleared the way for Biden to claim that national security would be imperiled if a company located in one of this countrys closest allies purchased United States Steel. He did so even though, as the Post points out, The U.S. militarys annual steel requirements amount to just 3 percent of total domestic production, according to the Pentagon, suggesting U.S. Steel by itself is not essential to the national defense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He did so to show solidarity with the United Steel Workers of America, whose leadership vigorously opposed the sale. As any student of American history knows, weve seen this all before. During the Korean War, as the Truman Library notes, steel unions wanted to capitalize on their importance to the defense efforts by (securing) wage increases. When the companies resisted, the unions threatened to strike, and a domestic crisis began. Truman immediately threw his support behind the union workers, as they were some of his biggest political supporters. But on April 8, 1952, Truman issued Executive Order 10340 authorizing the seizure and operation by his administration of the steel industries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like Biden, he invoked national security as a justification for his action. In a speech to the nation, Truman said, If steel production stops, we will have to stop making the shells and bombs that are going directly to our soldiers at the front in Korea. If steel production stops it wont be long before we have to stop making engines for the Air force planes. As President of the United States, Truman said, it is my plain duty to keep this from happening. Duty or not, the seizure of the steel mills did not end up well for Truman. The companies sued, and the Supreme Court delivered a stern rebuke to the president. Among other things, it found that the Defense Production Act affords no ground for his action. Like Truman before him, Biden made what The New York Times rightly calls an extraordinary use of executive power. Like Truman, his use of that power will soon face a court challenge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By the time it is finally resolved, Biden will be gone and the burden of a court judgment will fall on the Trump administration. Whatever the outcome, Bidens decision signals the new posture of the Democratic Party and serves as a reminder of just how much a president can do under the broad and often vague umbrella of national security. Austin Sarat is the William Nelson Cromwell Professor of Jurisprudence and Political Science at Amherst College. His views do not necessarily reflect those of Amherst College. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. During his first presidency, Donald Trump repeatedly promised to modernize Americas outdated infrastructure. As it turned out, it was President Biden who worked with Congress to appropriate $1.2 trillion to repair and update the nations power lines, pipes, bridges and highways. Without a single Republican vote, Biden also managed to win the largest-ever investment in clean and renewable energy. Nothing is more critical to the nations future than its energy supplies and how we distribute and use them. Now, the ball will be passed again to Trump and a new Republican-controlled Congress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although the infrastructure and energy bills are on the books, incoming leaders will try to influence how the money is spent. Rather than allowing the nations clean-energy transition to proceed, they could redirect the appropriations to far less essential purposes or spend them on last centurys energy: fossil fuels. We cant let that happen. Meanwhile, the infrastructure bill will lay the foundation for clean and renewable energy in the United States by spending $65 billion the largest such investment in American history on a modern electric transmission and distribution system. That system is often called the biggest machine ever built. It consists today of 11,000 generation plants, 5.5 million miles of transmission and distribution lines (enough to stretch to the moon and back 46 times), 180 million power poles, 3,000 electric utilities, 590 oil and gas rigs, 2.5 million miles of gas pipelines, 560 active coal mines and three separate regional electric grids that mainly transmit alternating current. In 1982, energy visionaries Amory and Hunter Lovins published a study commissioned by the Defense Department to assess the systems security. The Lovins warned that America relied on a continuous electrical supply (that) depends on many large and precise machines, rotating in exact synchrony across half a continent, and strung together by an easily severed network of aerial arteries whose failure is instantly disruptive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They warned, The size, complexity, pattern, and control structure of these electrical machines make them inherently vulnerable to large-scale failures: a vulnerability which government policies are systematically increasing. The same is true of the technologies that deliver oil, gas, and coal to run our vehicles, buildings, and industries. Our reliance on these delicately poised energy systems has unwittingly put at risk our whole way of life. That assessment is still accurate. Fossil fuels have triggered economic recessions and brought the world to the brink of permanent environmental catastrophe. Power outages cost U.S. businesses $150 billion annually and households a similar amount. Extreme weather is responsible for more than 80 percent of blackouts. Because of global climate change, power interruptions have increased 67 percent in the U.S. since 2000. Millions of Americans have also found themselves without electricity because tree branches touched powerlines, squirrels chewed through system components, or vandals took potshots at transformers. Now, the big machine faces modern challenges, including power-hungry electric vehicles, data farms, artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency mining, and a resurgence in domestic manufacturing. During the last decade, energy-efficiency gains have kept Americas electric demand relatively stable despite the growing population and economy. Now, a single query using ChatGPT uses nearly 10 times the electricity of a Google search. Analysts say data center power demands could triple in the U.S. over the next three years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The good news is that nonpolluting, inexhaustible energy has become the least expensive and quickest way to generate electricity. Some 126 million solar panels on 4.3 million rooftops already contribute to the nations power supply, along with 75,000 wind turbines, nearly 4,200 large solar farms and 2,100 hydroelectric dams. However, we need vastly more. We have the natural resources and technologies to provide it, but we must modernize and expand the grid to move clean energy to where its needed. As Amory Lovins says today, Weve got 21st-century technology and speed colliding head-on with 20th and 19th-century institutions, rules, and cultures. Our grid is at a make-or-break moment, according to Willie L. Phillips, chair of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. (The grid) is being tested every single day in ways that weve never seen before. Were not talking about regular demand. Were talking about dramatic increases of demand on our system. One idea gaining traction at the U.S. Department of Energy and Google is to locate power-hungry data operations where renewable resources are available and equip them with microgrids that can detach from the larger grid during outages. Several data operations could be served by the same assets if they are co-located in energy parks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other experts point out that the transmission system could move electricity over long distances more economically by connecting renewable energy assets with load centers using high-voltage, direct current (HVDC) lines. They can be routed along existing rights of way and buried to keep them safe from weather and to minimize NIMBYism. The Energy Futures Initiative says the nation is underinvesting in HVDC today even though its the backbone grid that is important for economic growth, reliability, resiliency, and the proliferation of low-cost clean energy. One challenge is the number of actors and stakeholders in Americas electric system. They include three transmission regions, utilities, independent power producers, standards organizations, grid operators, government agencies, and consumer and environmental groups. Fortunately, under Bidens Energy secretary, Jennifer Granholm, the U.S. Department of Energy has issued a comprehensive grid modernization strategy, the coordinated product of nine DOE offices and 14 national laboratories. For the sake of Americas future, we should hope that Trump, Congress and decision-makers nationwide use the strategy to optimize the benefits of every dollar. After all, it was Thomas Edison, the inventor of the light bulb, DC power and Americas first power plant, who said, Id put my money on the sun and solar energy. I hope we dont have to wait until oil and coal run out before we tackle that. He also said, Good fortune is what happens when opportunity meets with planning. William S. Becker is a former regional director at the U.S. Department of Energy and author of several books on climate change and national disaster policies, including the 100-Day Action Plan to Save the Planet and The Creeks Will Rise: People Co-Existing with Floods. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Being elected president truly is a get-out-of-jail-free card for Donald Trump, but the greater concern should be for what this means for the rule of law in this country. On Friday, New York Judge Juan M. Merchan upheld Trumps 34 felony convictions for falsifying business records. Merchan set sentencing for Friday, Jan. 10, and indicated that he would likely take the very unusual step of unconditionally discharging Trumps sentence. In plain English, this means that Trump will face absolutely no legal consequences from his convictions not prison, not probation, not a fine. Trump's lawyers are trying to halt even the signaled unconditional discharge while they appeal. But Merchan realistically has no alternative. Read more: Trumps lawyers ask judge to halt Friday's hush money case sentencing while they appeal Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A prison sentence is incompatible with Trump serving as president of the United States. The appellate courts surely would overturn a prison sentence, holding that, under the Constitution, being elected president preempts the ability of a state to interfere with that by imprisonment. Trump could not perform his constitutional duties as president from a prison cell in New York. Nor would it make sense for a state judge to put the president on probation and supervise his actions with the threat of revocation and imprisonment. Trump faced up to four years in prison for the crimes for which he was convicted in New York. A study by the New York Times found that of 30 convictions for falsifying business records in Manhattan in the last decade, no other defendant received an unconditional discharge. All but five received sentences such as jail and prison time, probation and fines; some who entered into plea deals received sentences involving specific conditions, such as paying restitution or completing community service. Indeed, Michael Cohen, the person who arranged the payment of the hush money that led to Trumps conviction, was sentenced to three years in prison and served 13 months in custody. Trump, who the jury found orchestrated and was responsible for authorizing the payments, will never serve a day in jail. Read more: Judge upholds Trump's conviction, sets sentencing for Jan. 10 but signals no jail time Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But this is only a part of Trumps get-out-of-jail-free benefit. He was indicted in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia for his acts in attempting to undermine the results of the 2020 presidential election. Had Trump lost in November, he would have been tried and faced a prison sentence if convicted. But the charges were dismissed after Trump was elected because of a Justice Department rule that a sitting president cannot be prosecuted. This also was the basis for dismissing the indictment against Trump in federal court in Florida for improper handling of classified documents. The charges against him were serious: evidence tampering, willfully retaining national defense information and lying to investigators. If convicted, these charges also would likely have led to a significant prison sentence. And it must be remembered that last summer the Supreme Court, in Trump vs. United States, ruled that Trump could not be prosecuted for anything he did using official powers granted to the president by the Constitution or a statute. This led to the dropping of some charges against him. The courts decision provides protection for any official acts taken during his first term, and he assumes office knowing he faces little possibility of prosecution for any illegal acts in the next four years. Read more: Who is Juan Merchan, the N.Y. judge handling Trump's case? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is impossible to reconcile all of this with the most basic notion of the rule of law, the core of which is that no one, not even a president or former president, is above the law. It is captured in the idea, uttered from the beginning of American history, that we are a country of laws, not people. The last thing that the framers of the Constitution wanted was to create a president who could not be held accountable for breaking the law. Trump still faces civil liability for some of his past conduct. Last week, a federal court of appeals upheld a $5-million verdict against Trump for his sexual assault of E. Jean Carroll. Another jury awarded Carroll $83.3 million against Trump for defamation. That verdict is now on appeal. Also, Trump is appealing a $355-million verdict for business fraud against him and his company. But none of these civil suits involve the crimes he committed or was charged with. Nor does there seem any way to ever punish him for those felonies. The assault on the rule of law is also reflected in Trump's promise to pardon those who participated in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack at the Capitol. So far, more than 1,500 individuals have been charged with federal crimes in connection to Jan. 6. Most of those were misdemeanors, such as trespassing, but hundreds have pleaded guilty to or were convicted of assault or other felonies. The conduct of all was illegal and unconscionable in a democracy, yet they could be absolved of criminal liability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is perhaps too easy to ignore that this situation is unique in our republics history. Never before has a convicted felon become president. Never before has election as president meant the dismissal of criminal charges. It flouts the very essence of the rule of law that election as president could be a get-out-of-jail-free card. Erwin Chemerinsky, a contributing writer to Opinion, is dean of the UC Berkeley Law School. If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Former Rep. Liz Cheney, R-Wyo., and Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., were honored by President Joe Biden with the Presidential Citizens Medal last week. Its the second-highest civilian award in the U.S., and for the co-chairs of the House Jan. 6 committee its well-deserved. In an interview with NBC News in December, though, President-elect Donald Trump promised to pardon Jan. 6 rioters and said, Everybody on that committee for what they did, yeah, honestly, they should go to jail. The committee may have lost the current political moment, but it did invaluable work to preserve a meticulous and comprehensive record of Trumps monthslong attempt at a self-coup. As disgraceful as it is that Trump is going to avoid accountability and is now empowered to spur bogus investigations into the committees members history should look kindly on the Jan. 6 committees final report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps return to the White House is, by all appearances, a rejection by the American people of the defunct committees work. Many Republicans and conservative commentators who four years ago said Trumps incitement of the mob that attacked the Capitol rendered him unfit for office have since fallen in line behind the partys unquestioned leader. And hes unlikely to ever have to answer before a jury of his peers for his attempt to overturn a free and fair election based on lies that as members of his own administration testified before the Jan. 6 committee he knew were lies. Though MAGA always positioned the bipartisan committee as a witch hunt and a kangaroo court, the committees hearings were both dramatic and sober. There was appalling video of the days violence, much of it never before shown to the public. And contrary to MAGA accusations of a Democratic partisan witch hunt, nearly all of the testimony came from former Trump administration officials, other Republicans and police officers savagely assaulted by Trumps mob. President Joe Biden presents Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., with the Presidential Citizens Medal during a ceremony in the East Room of the White House on Jan. 2. But despite the committees name, a lot of the testimony had little to do with the Jan. 6 riot itself. Trumps repeated attempts to bully Republican state officials into overturning the election results were also exhaustively documented. To cite just one of these officials, Arizonas Republican House speaker, Rusty Bowers, testified that after refusing to submit to Trumps demands, he endured a public smear campaign and faced harassment at his home. One man showed up to his residence and waved a gun at his family and neighbors. Bowers called Trumps attempt to steal the election a tragic parody. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps attorney general at the time, Bill Barr, told the committee under oath that he informed Trump his accusations about voter fraud were bullshit. Trumps daughter Ivanka, also under oath, echoed Barrs assessment of her fathers big lie. So, how has this already been so thoroughly memory-holed? As I wrote last month, Trumps big lie that the 2020 election was stolen has been debunked for years in court and by Republican and Democratic election officials. But the basic message of that lie will never die. In fact, you could say the big lie won the 2024 election. Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., and Rep. Liz Cheney, R-Wyo., during a hearing of the Jan. 6 committee on June 13, 2022, in Washington. MAGA-friendly media figures have been working hard to soft-sell Jan. 6 as either a nothingburger or peddle the falsehood that it was a crime actually committed by Democrats and the establishment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Around the time of last years Jan. 6 anniversary, Joe Rogan, Vivek Ramaswamy and other MAGA and heterodox influencers spread false innuendo that the Jan. 6 rioters were entrapped or set up by a nefarious conspiracy between the FBI, the Capitol Police and Nancy Pelosi. And formerly anti-Trump conservatives have latched on to the facile premise that Jan. 6 was merely a brief and unfortunate riot nothing more. This, of course, ignores the months between Election Day and the attack on the Capitol, during which Trump absolutely attempted a self-coup. Despite running a presidential campaign that went heavy on pitching the (correct) idea that Trump remains a unique threat to the survival of American democracy, Democrats failed to persuade enough voters. That said, 75 million Americans voted for Vice President Kamala Harris, and Trumps roughly 1.5 percentage-point edge in the popular vote was the tightest margin since the 2000 Bush-Gore election. (In 2016, Hillary Clinton beat Trump by 2.1 percentage points in the popular vote.) This means all hope is not lost that perhaps someday, Americans maybe even Republicans too will pass judgment on how it should be remembered as a historic moment for the United States of America. Im a devoutly nonpartisan independent and not one who regularly (or, really ever) praises congressional committees. But as citizens who maintain an allegiance to truth, democracy and the rule of law, we owe the Jan. 6 committee a debt of gratitude for its politically risky and thoroughly patriotic efforts. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com In the popular imagination, a democracy dies when a group of angry plotters seizes control of a government building and announces that they are now in charge. Thats why images of the mob defiling the Capitol building on Jan. 6 still have such a visceral power in our memories even four years later. But the attackers were not there that day to install themselves as senators and representatives or declare that they were now the countrys ruling junta. Instead, they were there specifically to stop the formal counting of the Electoral College votes. As we commemorate that dark day, its important to be clear-eyed about what took place. This was not an attempted revolution or even, in the words of those who wish to downplay it, a protest that got out of hand but rather the violent arm of a broader campaign to find a legal way to overturn an election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 1,000 Americans have been convicted for the violent attack, most of whom pleaded guilty to the charges. But they were just the most visible members of a group that included political strategists and advisers, lawyers and law professors, local election officials and state lawmakers, and, of course, the once-and-future president of the United States, Donald Trump. The attack on the Capitol came about only because the campaigns other efforts had failed. At key moments after the 2020 election, the decisions by members of the Wayne County election board in Detroit, the governor of Arizona, the top election official in Georgia, and the sitting vice president, as well as countless local election officials, state lawmakers and judges, to stand up to Trumps relentless pressure campaign left stopping the certification by Congress in part by force as the last-ditch option. As we consider the future of our country, then, its important to remember that a democracy cant just fail in a bloody attack, but also in a governors mansion, a state capitol building, a quiet courtroom or the Senate floor. Democracy fails when people decide that norms are outdated, that laws are just suggestions and that words dont have the same meaning any more. It fails, quite simply, when people stop caring about it. In 2020, the right people cared at the right moments. With Trump returning to office later this month despite his failed attempt to overturn an election, there are good reasons to be concerned. He has run a campaign predicated on retribution for perceived wrongs, chosen a man to lead the FBI who has made a list of roughly 60 political adversaries that he might go after, and repeatedly made disconcerting comments about running for a third term or being a dictator for a day. His second term will inevitably test the guardrails of our democracy once again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But there are also reasons to be hopeful. Voter turnout in November was among the highest in the modern era, especially in the battleground states that decided the election. Whatever the wisdom of their choice, thats a sign that Americans were engaged. Senate Republicans showed with their response to Trumps first attorney general pick, controversial former Rep. Matt Gaetz, that they have at least one line they wont cross, leading to his withdrawal. And while Trump won a second term after all, it may have been in spite of his election denial and not because of it. Election deniers who ran for important offices such as governor, secretary of state and attorney general, especially in the key states, lost almost across the board in 2022, and the subject largely disappeared as a campaign theme among Republican candidates in 2024. Even Trump has quieted down on his complaints about the nations elections since his win. Key lawyers in Trumps effort to overturn the 2020 election, including Rudy Giuliani, John Eastman, Kenneth Chesebro and others, have had their law licenses suspended or been disbarred for their work. Preparing for the next threat to our democratic traditions is somewhat futile. In some ways, its a little like expanding airport security measures after the 9/11 attacks: necessary, but insufficient. The next attack will not be like the last one. It most likely wont involve pressuring local and state officials not to certify an election or trying to block the certification of an election, but something entirely new and potentially unforeseen. The best defense, then, is to remain cautious and vigilant. Take threats to democracy seriously, but dont overreact to every idea thats floated or youll burn out. Spend less time on social media and more time being social. Get involved with a local group of activists or advocates trying to make the world better to channel your energy and remain hopeful. Insist that your elected officials live up to the standards of their predecessors. Speak up when you see something wrong. Because the next assault on democracy wont necessarily look like Jan. 6. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com You dont have to look far to find essays on the importance of societies learning to value older people. In one example from a few years ago, contributor Percil Stanford wrote for Forbes that the title older person should be a symbol of strength and a repository of treasured experiences and wisdom. We can ill afford to not avail ourselves of all that everyone has to offer throughout their life span, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Well I think the United States can check this one off its list. We honor our elders so much we keep electing them as our most important and powerful leaders. Voters just replaced the oldest president in history with someone who is 78. At the same time, they elected the third oldest Congress on record. Its unclear whether this is a good idea. Aging world leaders What it is not, however, is unique. On the list of world leaders by age, 82-year-old Joe Biden isnt even in the top 10. Paul Biya, the president of Cameroon, will be 92 next month. Muhammad Yunus just took control of Bangladesh at age 84. Why is this happening? Are there no young folks with aspirations for power? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im not sure there is an answer. However, this willingness to empower the elderly comes with some obvious risks. Oscar Wilde is quoted as saying, With age comes wisdom, but sometimes age comes alone. And, lets face it, sometimes age and wisdom come together, but wisdom decides to go home early. Last year, Rep. Kay Granger, R-Texas, seemed to vanish mysteriously from the halls of Congress, missing more than 300 votes. In reality, she had been checked into an assisted-care facility. Her constituents, like the rest of America, didnt know this. Granger is 81. She didnt run for re-election last year. Meanwhile, Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, is 91 and in the middle of another Senate term. He is the oldest member of the Senate, but no one seems to be questioning his abilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This subject is not new, nor is this the first time I have addressed it. It is, however, bound to emerge again and again as the nation keeps electing senior citizens. Solutions, if any are needed, remain elusive. Age limits? A Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics poll conducted last August by HarrisX found 62% of Utah voters saying there ought to be age limits applied to elected offices. But when asked what that limit should be, popular answers ranged from 80 (12%) to 60 (13%), The largest percentage, 29%, chose 70, with 65 coming in a relatively close second place at 22%. But, of course, the problem isnt age, its cognitive ability. Getting back to Oscar Wilde, age and wisdom may part ways at different ages, but sometimes they remain steadfast friends for life. Many can point to elderly people who remain sharp, thoughtful contributors to society, just as some people suffer from dementia at a relatively young age. Some have suggested cognitive tests for office holders. But agreeing on such a thing in a political body, just like anything else in a political body, would be fraught with endless arguments over details. Its also unlikely any lawmaker would relinquish a duly won seat without a fight. Not too many years ago, Strom Thurmond, at age 100, used to enter Senate committee rooms with the help of aides, reading questions his staff had prepared for him. As the New York Times reported, his chief of staff made most of the decisions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Certainly, voters deserve to know who is truly representing them. Aging leaders in Congress The newly elected 119th Congress has an average age of 58.9 years. The average in the Senate is 63.8, and in the House its 57.7 years. Measured differently, the median age in the Senate is almost 65 the traditional retirement age. Nearly half, 49, are at least that old. The new Senate is only slightly younger than the 63.9 average of the last Senate. However, these calculations, made every two years on the first day of the newest Congress by the @unitedstates project, do not include newly elected West Virginia Sen. Jim Justice, who will be sworn in Jan. 13, and who is 73. Between the House and Senate, 20 members are 80 or older. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Signs of a youth movement are emerging. A majority of the Senate are baby boomers, but Gen X has a slight lead in the House. Only one representative, 27-year-old Maxwell Frost, D-Fla., qualifies as Gen Z. To be sure, elder care and abuse, and a lack of respect for the wisdom and knowledge that comes with age, remain problems in much of society. Sadly, not everyone can be elected. I grew up in a small rural village. Full of lovely, wonderful people. But I often heard as I am sure you have, dear reader my friends excuse the bigotry and small-mindedness of their relatives with this simple expression: Oh, theyre of a different time. Well, Jimmy Carter was born 100 years ago in rural Georgia. And he supported civil rights for Black Americans his entire life. He reminded me of my white grandfather, who was also from a small town and a different time and fully embraced his mixed-race grandson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are all creatures of our time and place. But as Carter showed us, that doesnt have to stop us from doing the right thing. Carter rose to the most powerful position in the world. As a public servant, he helped advance the four great movements of the 20th century civil rights, womens rights, human rights abroad and the environment, in the words of journalist Jonathan Alter. Carter never used the presidency to enrich himself, either while he was in office or in the four decades since he returned to Georgia. He worked to make peace, promote democracy around the world, eradicate disease and build houses for poor people. In all this, Carter was famously guided by his deep Christian faith, which led him to embrace humility and approach leadership as a service to all Gods people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The contrast between the incoming president and so many of the religious leaders who have embraced or excused his corruption, cruelty and self-glorification could not be greater. Ive heard people respond in sadness to Carters death by suggesting that he was one of a kind or the last of his breed. In their despair about the direction our country is taking, they suggest that we are saddled for the foreseeable future with triumphant Trumpism and the aggressive white Christian nationalism that he has mobilized and manipulated to his benefit. I dont accept that. Certainly, Trump and his allies are about to have the power to do great harm. I am offended that much of it will be done in the name of my faith. I am a progressive Christian and in D.C. I attend the Baptist Church where Jimmy Carter taught Sunday School while he was president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As an American and an activist, I will do what I can, and work with everyone I can, to minimize that harm. Its a cruel circumstance that Donald Trump will take office on the day we celebrate Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., who demonstrated the power of an inclusive religious vision to call on Americans to build a beloved community. That power is still available to us. Despite Trumps narrow election victory, I believe most Americans will not support his teams plans to dismantle protections for workers, families and communities and give unaccountable corporations and powerful billionaires even more power over our lives. I believe that millions of American Christians will see efforts to reverse progress toward dignity and equality for all people as a betrayal of the example and teachings of the Jesus that Jimmy Carter worshipped. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter reminded me of another great American, Norman Lear: the founder of my organization, People for the American Way, who was born two years before Carter and died one year before him. Lear saw the threat that an authoritarian religious-right movement could pose to freedom and equality in a multicultural country like ours. Lear, who was Jewish, worked to preserve secular government and the separation of church and state. At the same time, he believed it was a mistake that progressive leaders did not speak more openly about the ways their own faith and values motivated their work to build a just and inclusive society. It created space for right-wing hucksters and Christian nationalists to wrongly claim a moral high ground for policies that exclude and harm others, to falsely assert that they alone represent authentic voices of faith. Jimmy Carter was proof that they do not. He showed us a different path. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was a committed Christian who was committed to the idea that political and religious leaders should strive to build a society in which all people could fulfill their dreams. Millions of us, of all faiths and no religious affiliation, share that vision. Its not surprising that a death like Jimmy Carters, especially on the cusp of the coming changes in Washington, feels to many like the end of an era. But another era is always beginning. New generations are always rising to responsibility and leadership. This is our time. Svante Myrick is the president of People For the American Way . Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on Dec. 3 for the first time in 44 years. As shocking as the incident was, Yoons ruling People Power Party (PPP) initially responded by refusing to impeach the president. Instead, conservative lawmakers prioritized party loyalty over accountability, and the impeachment vote failed to achieve a quorum on Dec. 7. The scene echoed attempts to impeach Donald Trump in 2019 for abuse of power and in 2021 for inciting an insurrection. While Republican lawmakers were privately horrified by Trumps actions, ultimately, they feared the repercussions for defying their party. Recent signs of democratic backsliding have caused scholars to question whether the institutional separation of powers continues to function today in an increasingly polarized world, where lawmakers prioritize party loyalty over their constituents. The past month in South Korea, however, offers a unique glimpse into how ordinary citizens can reclaim political power. After the first attempt to impeach Yoon failed, citizens were outraged. Newspapers published profile pictures and contact information of PPP legislators who boycotted the vote, while protestors badgered them with phone calls and letters, decrying the partys moral bankruptcy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Students posted statements online and at their universities, pleading with PPP legislators to choose their conscience over their party. Civic organizations erected rows of chrysanthemum wreaths symbolizing the death of the PPPs legitimacy outside party members district offices. Unable to withstand unrelenting public pressure, all PPP legislators showed up for the second impeachment vote on Dec. 14, with a handful of members turning against Yoon. More recently, on Dec. 27, 192 lawmakers successfully voted to impeach Prime Minister Han Duck Soo, less than two weeks after Yoon was stripped of his powers. What has fueled such sustained collective resistance in South Korea? Yoons attempted self-coup clearly struck a nerve in the public psyche. When he declared martial law, his approval rating had already dropped to below 20 percent the lowest during his tenure. Many saw his move as the last straw for an already frustrated public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even before December, a growing coalition of civic organizations had gathered regularly in the streets of Seoul, calling for his impeachment. Others pointed to South Koreas robust history of collective mobilization, such as the successful campaign to oust former President Park Geun Hye in 2016. On the one hand, the recent collective action against Yoon certainly did not occur in a vacuum, nor was it an aberration in South Koreas long history of social movements. Few Western media outlets, however, have highlighted how a deeper history of national trauma during democratization continues to drive public outrage. For many, images of armed troops blocking the National Assembly and special forces moving in the darkened streets echo the tragedies of the past: the 1980 Gwangju Uprising, the April 3 Jeju massacre, and countless other brutal episodes of state-led repression in the past century. South Korean history is stained with the blood of students, workers and ordinary citizens who dared to demand fundamental rights and democratic governance. Even decades after the formal transition to democracy, memorials, anniversaries and cultural works films, literature and music keep these scars fresh. When Yoon deployed soldiers and claimed the nation faced a threat from anti-state forces, the language and spectacle were hauntingly familiar. In a cruel historical echo, Yoons martial law decree and the initial failed impeachment vote overlapped with the anniversary of Chun Doo Hwans declaration of martial law in 1979. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Citizens filled the streets and social media with reminders of past atrocities, stressing how historical injustices still resonate. A coalition of 802 sociologists emphasized the severity of the moment, stating, Yoon Suk Yeols declaration of martial law serves as a stark reminder of the historical wounds of oppression, violence, suppression and fear that many citizens endured under past military dictatorships. Even those born after authoritarian rule have vicariously experienced the brutality of Chun Doo Hwans military crackdown in Gwangju through films like A Taxi Driver and 12.12: The Day. South Korean youth understand that democracy is no given gift but a fragile inheritance of hard-won freedoms, with one student group stating that democracy in this land was built on countless lives. Referencing historic flashpoints in Busan, Masan and Gwangju, students noted that during the six hours [of] martial law, the bitter, unresolved tragedies of this land resurfaced. Another student collective voiced disbelief and alarm, asking, Is this the 1980s? Is this happening in 2024? Collective trauma acts as a powerful emotional backdrop, transforming a single incident into a moral crossroads that not only threatens social order but also generations of political progress. South Koreans today are not merely protesting a government decree. Rather, they are responding to a fervent rallying call to defend the soul of their nation and reaffirm a collective identity forged through past suffering and unyielding resistance. In South Korea, citizens, not politicians, have held the president accountable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sharon Yoon is Associate Professor of Korean Studies at the Keough School of Global Affairs at the University of Notre Dame, and Saehwan Lee and Paul Lee are graduate students in sociology at the University of Notre Dame. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. With Justin Trudeaus announcement that he will step down as prime minister, Canada is now looking for a new leader after a decade under his policies. The question is whether anyone will look for the remnants of Canadian free speech in the wreckage of the Trudeau government. In my book The Indispensable Right: Free Speech in an Age of Rage, I write about the collapse of free speech in Canada under Trudeau. Canada has long been a country caught between two influences: the United Kingdom and the United States. It has shared DNA with both nations. Unfortunately, it has largely followed the British approach in treating free speech more like a privilege than a right. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That dubious tradition was magnified over the last decade by a wholesale attack on free speech deemed hostile, insulting or triggering for different groups. In many ways, Canada has been a cautionary tale for many in the U.S., as the same voices of censorship and criminalization grow on our campuses and in Congress. Indeed, BlueSky, a social media site that offers a safe space for liberals who do not want to be triggered by opposing views, has apparently embraced Canadian-style standards for censorship as part of its pitch for those with viewpoint intolerance. Trudeau has been the cheerful face of modern censorship. While exuding tolerance and inclusivity, he hammered conservatives and libertarians with draconian measures and perfectly Orwellian soundbites. In the name of tolerance, he proudly proclaimed intolerance for opposing views. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau shows how speech codes and virtue signaling are now chic on the left. In a town hall event, Trudeau chastised a woman for asking a question that used the term mankind and instructed her, We like to say peoplekind because its more inclusive. (He later claimed he was joking. If so, many of his policies have the same punchline and are no joking matter.) In many ways, Trudeaus true colors emerged in his crackdown on the trucker protests opposing COVID-19 mandates in 2022, a campaign widely supported by an enabling media. Trudeau invoked the 1988 Emergencies Act for the first time to freeze bank accounts of truckers and contributions by other Canadian citizens, powers long condemned by civil liberties groups in Canada. The anti-free speech apple did not fall far from the tree. It was Trudeaus father, Pierre Trudeau, who as prime minister used the predecessor to the act for the first time in peacetime to suspend civil liberties. Trudeau was widely criticized for his anti-free speech policies, including his move to amend the Criminal Code and the Canadian Human Rights Act to criminalize any communication that expresses detestation or vilification of an individual or group of individuals on the basis of a prohibited ground of discrimination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was used to prevent social media platforms [from being] used to threaten, intimidate, bully and harass people, or used to promote racist, anti-Semitic, Islamophobic, misogynistic and homophobic views that target communities, put peoples safety at risk and undermine Canadas social cohesion or democracy. Under Trudeau, human rights commissions became virtual speech commissars in Canada. A conservative webmaster was prosecuted for allowing third parties to leave insulting comments about gay people and minorities on the site. Federal Court Justice Richard Mosley insisted that the minimal harm caused to freedom of expression is far outweighed by the benefit it provides to vulnerable groups and to the promotion of equality. Even a comedian was prosecuted for insulting jokes involving lesbians. Recently, a Canadian mayor and a town were prosecuted for not hoisting an LGBTQ2 rainbow flag in celebration of Pride Month even though they did not have a flag pole. Despite crushing the trucker protests, the Canadian parliament extended Trudeaus emergency powers to allow him to continue to harass and threaten those on the right. Despite broad opposition, the Liberal Party, the NDP and other allies were able to muster 181 votes to keep authoritarian powers alive in Canada. (The Canadian courts later, belatedly, declared the Trudeau powers unconstitutional). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many of the same legislators would later push to increase the penalties for certain speech crimes to life imprisonment. One of the most tragically ironic moments for Canada came last year, when Trudeaus government blocked the citizenship of Russian dissident Maria Kartasheva because she has a conviction in Russia. She had been tried in absentia by a judge sanctioned by Canada for her exercise of free speech in Russia in condemning the Ukrainian war. The Canadian government informed Kartasheva that her conviction in Russia aligns with a Criminal Code offense relating to false information in Canada. Think about that. Canada was concerned because she violated anti-free speech laws that are similar to its own. The Russians convicted her of disseminating deliberately false information, and Canada convicts people under laws like Section 372(1) of the Criminal Code of Canada for efforts to convey, cause, or procure to be conveyed false information with the intent to alarm or injure anyone. That is why some of us spit out our soup in 2022 when Trudeaus government condemned Cuba for its own crackdown on protesters, claiming that Canada strongly advocates for freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly free from intimidation. Trudeau also condemned China for cracking down on protests over COVID-19, the very subject of his own crackdown on the truckers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet Trudeau has been a darling of the Canadian and American press despite a disapproval rate of around 68 percent among Canadian citizens. The media clearly approves of his position that freedom of expression is not without limits when others seek to arbitrarily or unnecessarily injure those with whom we are sharing a society and a planet. So the question is: Now that Trudeau is heading out, where do Canadians go to get their free speech back? Jonathan Turley is the Shapiro professor of public interest law at George Washington University and the author of The Indispensable Right: Free Speech in an Age of Rage. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. As we turn the page on the warmest year ever recorded, and the first year we ever surpassed 1.5 degrees Celsius of human-induced warming, a vanguard of activists are employing attention-grabbing tactics to draw attention to the climate crisis. In 2024, they spray painted Stonehenge, held die-ins, teach-ins and other actions in front of Citibank HQ, blocked the entrance to the Department of Energy and spray-painted planes on a private airfield. As these performative and disruptive tactics have spread, so too has the criminalisation and repression of climate activists. When Tim Martin is sentenced for his participation in an action that involved smearing paint on the protective covering of a Degas sculpture in 2023, he will join a growing number of climate activists who have been charged with severe sentences for their participation in non-violent civil disobedience in the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In many ways, this movement to limit the climate crisis is following a common model of radicalization. Since climate activists are being disproportionately charged compared to participants in the insurrection on Jan. 6, 2021, onlookers might believe climate activists are truly a threat to the nation. But climate activists are not the first radical activists to be demonized and repressed. When we consider the long trajectory of activism in the United States, theres much to learn from the struggle for civil rights in America regarding the cycle of radicalization and repression that we are seeing in the climate movement. Its no surprise that the general response to these actions has been relatively negative. Critics often compare climate activists to a sanitized memory of the civil rights movement as a purely peaceful movement to argue that radical and confrontational tactics wont win hearts and minds. We agree direct action doesnt win friends, and the climate movement has much to learn from the struggle for civil rights in America. The difference is that while these critics believe the take-away is for climate activists to back down, research from other movements documents how the climate movement can use disruption and repression to expand the movement and lean into the criticism. Back in the 1960s, the civil rights movement received the same critiques and was accused of similar divisiveness as todays climate movement: activists were agitators, the movement was too disruptive and the tactics were called unwise and misdirected. Despite their unpopularity with the media and the general public, as well as the challenges of internal conflict over tactics, the movement persisted. Thanks to the diversity of tactics employed and groups involved, the movement expanded and was able to generate enough support to demand political change change that resulted in our now holding the civil rights movement in the U.S. up as the epitome of a successful social movement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So, how can we make sense of what comes next for the climate movement by looking back to the civil rights movement? Any movement that challenges the status quo will be divisive. Civil rights leaders knew that they were not just challenging unjust laws; they were challenging the very basis of Americas identity and its democracy. Like the struggle for civil rights, the climate movement is fighting to get its battle cry for systemic changes to be heard over the entrenched interests that are clinging to the status quo. So too might the climate movement and its sympathizers lean into its efforts to ruffle feathers and wake people up. In other words, it should continue to spray paint stuff, block traffic, disrupt speeches, shows and performances, throw food and much, much more. The civil rights movement shows us that successful movements can strategically embrace rather than reject their radical wing. As a form of civil disobedience, sit-ins were initially considered radical to the mainstream civil rights movement. Rather than distancing themselves from the movement, though, civil rights leaders leaned into the tactic and the Black church provided valuable resources and support. It was through these local connections to communities that the movement was able to meet, organize and expand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To date, the more formal factions in the climate movement and the left generally have been critical of the radical flank of the movement and the confrontational tactics they are employing. They question the tactics and criticize the actions and the activists. Such factionalism in the movement is likely to be a big drag on its capacity to expand and work together to achieve its goals. Radical flanks can draw public attention and consciousness to the cause (as in the many performative protests involving spray paint, soup and crazy glue). They provide an expanded space and community for organizing. The radical flank of the climate movement, though, does not yet have the kind of local roots into communities that the civil rights movement had through the Black church. Finally, the climate movement is likely to learn about the important role that violence plays in successful movements from the struggle for civil rights. While civil rights leaders trained activists in nonviolent civil disobedience, they were acutely aware that even non-violent civil disobedience was likely to result in violence as the police state and aggrieved white publics would respond. Instead of balking at the threat, civil rights activists leaned into the violence. They got arrested. They filled the jails. Research documents how it was the violence against nonviolent activists that generated the necessary public attention, which sparked the moral outrage among the general public that mobilized sympathizers; it led to broader public discussions about the struggle for civil rights in America and held up an unflattering mirror to American society. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leveraging moments of violence and state repression are opportunities rather than threats to the movement. Mass social change requires persistence in a long game. It requires risks. It requires being willing to give something up. When Tim Martin is sentenced for his climate activism, it should remind us of the messy realities, internal conflicts and ever-present dangers of movements to individuals and communities that are working to achieve deep systemic changes. As the civil rights and other social movements that have been successful in achieving their goals will remind us: saving the world is not for the faint of heart. Dana R. Fisher is director of the Center for Environment, Community & Equity; professor in the School of International Service; and author of Saving Ourselves: from Climate Shocks to Climate Action. Hajar Yazdiha is an assistant professor of sociology at the University of Southern California and author of The Struggle for the Peoples King: How Politics Transforms the Memory of the Civil Rights Movement. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Fire apparatus engineer Kevin Skinner. (Orange County Fire Authority) An Orange County firefighter died Sunday after suffering cardiac arrest at the scene of an early-morning blaze in Laguna Niguel. The firefighter, Kevin Skinner, spent more than 25 years with the Orange County Fire Authority. Authorities said that while he was searching inside a home on Pointe Royale for residents affected by the fire, he felt unwell and, soon after, collapsed. "We are deeply grateful for Kevins dedication to protecting our community and will never forget his sacrifice," the Fire Authority said in a post on Facebook. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before joining the OCFA in 1999, Skinner served in the Navy. He is survived by his wife and three children. The agency said Skinner was "known for his warm personality and his ability to make everyone feel welcome." OCFA Fire Capt. Thanh Nguyen said the cause of the fire at the Laguna Niguel home had not been determined. One resident of the house suffered smoke inhalation but decided not to seek further evaluation. 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. Oregon's child welfare services oversee 4,500 foster children. (Annie Otzen/Getty Images) State officials and advisers are working on a child welfare proposal for this years session they hope would encourage more providers to offer treatment to foster children with complex needs, including mental conditions. But the proposal would ease certain regulations and has attracted early opposition, including from a state senator who said it would roll back many of the reforms passed by the Legislature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Michelle Pfeiffer, the Oregon Department of Human Services legislative child welfare coordinator, told lawmakers recently that the proposal is designed to encourage the placement of children whove been difficult to place and have diverse and high-acuity needs. Pfeiffer and Molly Miller, deputy director for equity and workforce development for the Department of Human Services Child Welfare Division, said the August death by suicide of a 17-year-old foster child in Eugene highlighted the need for additional treatment options. Without more placement options, all of our other solutions are incredibly difficult, Pfeiffer said. Oregons beleaguered child welfare system, which serves about 4,500 foster children, is under a court order to improve the system. The case was brought by former foster children who suffered physical and mental abuse in the system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agency and the state System of Care Advisory Council, a 25-member panel that seeks to improve the effectiveness of state agencies that serve youth, are behind the proposal, now known as Legislative Concept 346. Pfeiffer said the proposal is intended to increase foster child placements and reduce unplanned discharges. A draft summary of the concept says recent laws passed by the Legislature to improve the well-being of children in care have had unintended consequences, including making it difficult to recruit and retain workers, reducing provider capacity and delaying care for children with complex behavioral health needs. Worries about rolling back regulations But Sen. Sara Gelser Blouin, a Corvallis Democrat whos been behind many of the reforms to improve protection for foster children over the last decade, said the proposal would roll back significant work done to improve child safety here in Oregon. Both Gelser Blouin and Anna Williams, executive director of the advisory council and a former state lawmaker, emphasized the proposal still is in draft form and would change before it emerges as a bill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An overall goal of the proposal, Williams said, is to build a culture in which folks are willing to say yes to taking on and providing services and care to kids with complex care needs. She said that now many providers decline to care for children over concerns about some current restrictions in state law. She said that helps explain what she called a pretty significant reduction in access to care a 32% decline in licensed child care agencies and a 48% drop in therapeutic foster-care providers in Oregon since 2014. Gelser Blouin disputes that argument. I fundamentally disagree with the premise that if people, if agencies, dont want to serve kids because theyre afraid theyll be accused of abusing them, we need to either reduce the accountability for that or allow behaviors that are currently considered abusive to happen to kids in order to accommodate the providers, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among other recommendations, the proposal calls for amending wrongful restraint definitions so that they apply across the system, for foster parents and child care agencies and schools alike. Proposal advocates say that would decrease the number of legally required reports made to the states child abuse hotline and a reduction in screenings, clearing up investigators to focus on genuine concerns. Proponents also say the changes could help agencies retain employees, who would no longer have to fear being investigated for child abuse to a technical violation of the law. Those recommendations worry Gelser Blouin. She said they would reduce accountability for those occasions when illegal or harmful restraints are used on patients. In fact, Gelser Blouin said, the use of restraints has increased substantially since the passage of Senate Bill 710 in 2021. That measure mandated that restraint or seclusion could be used only in cases in which there is imminent risk of serious injury. It also clarified training requirements and described the types of restraints that are prohibited. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Williams said that another goal of the proposal is to hold the right people accountable when things go wrong. For example, she said, if workers at a child care agency apply a hold on a child in a manner thats not allowed under state law and the workers know its illegal that could be investigated as child abuse. But if it occurs in a facility thats understaffed or where workers havent been property trained, that should be a licensure and certification investigation against the facility that didnt do its job to make sure the appropriate workers were on the floor so that kids could be safe. Regulatory reform is necessary, Williams said, to encourage people to speak up when problems occur so that they can be fixed. We have to be able to be open and honest about the fact that the mistake happened, to figure out what happened and how we could do better next time, Williams said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The proposal would create exceptions to Senate Bill 1605, which passed in 2020 and imposed restrictions on placements in out-of-state foster homes and child care agencies. The proposal calls for allowing such placements when theyre determined by Medicaid to be medically necessary and appropriate for example, in cases when suitable treatment is not available in Oregon. That would increase the number of available placements for Oregon youth, supporters say. Gelser Blouin objected: We have so many kids that were harmed in these placements out-of-state that (the idea to) go back to doing that again, with even less oversight than we had at that time, is mind-boggling. And she said the long-term answer is to stop focusing on institutional care for children. Our focus needs to be on keeping kids in their family homes or creating (foster) homes that are trained and resourced to appropriately support the kids, Gelser Blouin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX CLARIFICATION: This story was updated on Jan. 8, 2025 at 1:43 p.m. to add more context about Senate Bill 710. Proposal includes several recommendations Here are some of the recommendations in the draft of Legislative Concept 346: A vehicle is driven over a protective gate Jan 4, 2025, on Toulouse Street near Bourbon Street in New Orleans. Mayor LaToya Cantrell has asked for the federal government to provide an expert who can evaluate the citys remaining vulnerabilities after a Jan. 1 terrorist attack that killed 14 people and injured 37 more. (Greg LaRose/Louisiana Illuminator) NEW ORLEANS New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell said Sunday she has asked the Biden administration to provide a tactical expert who can evaluate vulnerable areas of the city ahead of the major events the city will host in the coming weeks, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors. Super Bowl LIX will take place Feb. 9 at the Superdome, but Carnival season officially starts Monday. Several parades will roll through New Orleans streets through Mardi Gras (March 4), and larger-than-average crowds are expected regularly in the French Quarter, where a terrorist raced down Bourbon Street in a pickup truck early Jan. 1, killing 14 people and injuring 37 others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mayor and Gov. Jeff Landry joined officials with the FBI and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms to provide an update to reporters Sunday morning on their investigation of Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, of Texas, who was killed in a shootout with police after his deadly attack. Cantrell was asked about multiple news reports that indicate the new traffic barriers, or bollards, the city is installing in the French Quarter are not strong enough to prevent an attack similar to what happened Wednesday morning. The stainless steel posts that are being replaced had been removed ahead of New Years Eve and the Sugar Bowl, which had been scheduled for Jan. 1, allowing Jabbar to lethally speed through three blocks of Bourbon Street before crashing into a lift vehicle. What were wanting to do is to ensure that boots on the ground with that expert advice to determine whether or not these bollards that youre talking about are sufficient, the mayor said. Were also asking if theyre not, were looking for how and what and where do they need to be placed. City contractors have already installed the receptacles for the new bollards at several intersections along Bourbon Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cantrell also said the city, in conjunction with the governor, wants to have Mardi Gras given a federal level-one Special Assessment Event Rating (SEAR). The designation would bring with it extensive federal interagency support, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Mardi Gras currently has a SEAR level two rating, which the mayor said she has pushed to raise since 2019. The mayor is expected to be among the local, state and federal officials who will meet with President Joe Biden when he and first lady Jill Biden come to New Orleans Monday to visit with victims families. FBI details Jabbars travel Flowers are placed Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, at a memorial site on Bourbon Street in New Orleans near where 14 people were killed early Wednesday in a terrorist attack. The large yellow barrier is one of four that were placed on each side of hydraulic gate installed across Bourbon Street a day after Shamsud-Din Jabbar sped down three blocks before crashing and being killed in a shootout with police. (Greg LaRose/Louisiana Illuminator) Lyonel Myrthil, the FBIs special agent in charge of its New Orleans office, said the agency has confirmed that Jabbar traveled to Cairo, Egypt, for four weeks from June to July last year, and then went to Ontario, Canada. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators want to determine if he had contact with anyone in those locations as well as in the Atlanta and Tampa, Florida, areas, which Lyonel said Jabbar also visited over the past year. Jabbar also made two trips to New Orleans before arriving on New Years Eve, according to the FBI, visiting in October and November. Myrthil shared video footage he said Jabbar recorded using the camera in a pair of Meta glasses as he rode a bicycle through the French Quarter during his October trip. Jabbar was wearing Meta glasses when police killed him early Wednesday, but Myrthil said there is no indication Jabbar was recording or live-streaming video during his attack. Additional video shared at Sundays news conference showed Jabbar walking through the French Quarter to place ice chests along Bourbon Street. Someone is also seen moving the cooler Jabbar placed at Bourbon and St. Peter Street one block to the intersection of Bourbon and Orleans Street. Myrthil said the individual did so unwittingly and is not considered an accomplice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Joshua Jackson, who leads the ATFs New Orleans branch, confirmed that a remote detonating device was recovered from Jabbars truck, but it wasnt the sophisticated type available only to the military. The electric match or hobby switch Jabbar planned to use is readily available to the public, and it would have succeeded in detonating the homemade explosive devices had police not stopped Jabbar as soon as they did, Jackson said. Jabbars choice of an electric switch is just indicative of his inexperience and lack of understanding how that material might be set off, Jackson said. Federal investigators have determined the material used to make the bombs based on tests conducted in the field in the French Quarter, at the short-term rental house where Jabbar is believed to have made the bombs and at his mobile home in Houston, Jackson said. Additional tests are being conducted at FBI labs to confirm their makeup. The material is available in the U.S., and Jackson said there is no indication early in the investigation that he obtained any explosive materials from overseas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The semi-automatic 9 mm handgun Jabbar used in the shootout with law enforcement was recovered along with a semi-automatic .308-caliber rifle in his truck. Jackson said Jabbar bought the rifle Dec. 19 from a private seller in Arlington, Texas, in a transaction that is permissible under state law. The seller had no prior relationship with Jabbar and knew nothing about his planned attack in New Orleans, Jackson said. More timeline details Investigators have determined Jabbar visited multiple gun shops in Texas before buying his 9 mm handgun Dec. 31. Myrthil said Jabbar entered Louisiana around 2:30 p.m. that afternoon and rented the Ford F-150 Lightning electric pickup he used in his attack in Gonzales at approximately 9 p.m. Jabbar was seen coming and going from the rental house on Mandeville Street, about 2 miles from where the attack occurred, and left for good at 12:15 a.m. Wednesday, according to federal investigators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jackson said the ATF has determined Jabbar attempted to burn down the house just before departing because a digital thermostat inside switched the air conditioning system inside from heating to cooling at 12:17 a.m. The fire originated inside a linen closet but did not spread because it ran out of oxygen. Jabbar had poured gasoline throughout the house and left a half-gallon fuel can in the hallway that connected all of its rooms. The purpose of the fire could have been to destroy evidence Jabbar left behind or create a distraction while he executed his plan, Jackson said. A neighbor called 911 to report smelling smoke at 5:18 a.m., about five hours after investigators believe the fire was set. French Quarter surveillance video shows Jabbar parking his truck at 12:41 a.m. and walking to Royal and Gov. Nicholls streets. He placed the first cooler at Bourbon and St. Peter shortly afterward. Nearly an hour later, the cooler is seen being moved by someone unaware of the contents inside. At 2:20 a.m, Jabbar is seen leaving a cooler at Bourbon and Toulouse streets. A third improvised bomb was found inside an ice chest in Jabbars truck. Authorities were able to safely neutralize all of the devices once discovered later Wednesday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At 3:15 a.m., Jabbar hastily turned his truck from Canal Street to Bourbon to begin his murderous assault. Assistance center opens A construction worker cuts into a section of Bourbon Street on Jan. 4, 2025, where old bollards are being replaced. Multiple news reports have questioned whether the replacements are strong to prevent a vehicle assault similar to the one that killed 14 people early Jan. 1 on Bourbon Street. (Greg LaRose/Louisiana Illuminator) The FBI has opened an in-person family assistance center for relatives of the victims at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church, 5621 Elysian Fields Ave. In addition to providing needed support, Myrthil said FBI personnel have recovered hundreds of personal items from the attack scene they wish to return to victims families. The center will be open until 7 p.m. Sunday and then from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays for as long as necessary, he said. Cantrell said she received approval from the federal government for first responders, French Quarter employees and witnesses to the attack to receive services from the FBI center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Landry announced that all 14 people killed in the attack will be honored with an official, individual day in their memory through Jan. 23. Chris Raia, deputy FBI director for counterterrorism, told reporters that information from the public has been instrumental in filling gaps in the ongoing investigation and previous attacks over the past 20 years. Over the past year, such information has helped federal agencies disrupt terrorists plans in Oklahoma City and New York City, he said. In addition to its New Orleans-based staff, the FBI has sent more than 200 agents to the city to assist with processing evidence, victim assistance and investigation leads and tips. This article first appeared in the Louisiana Illuminator, a sister site of the Nebraska Examiner in the States Newsroom network. Flowers are placed Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, at a memorial site on Bourbon Street in New Orleans near where 14 people were killed early Wednesday in a terrorist attack. The large yellow barrier is one of four that were placed on each side of hydraulic gate installed across Bourbon Street a day after Shamsud-Din Jabbar sped down three blocks before crashing and being killed in a shootout with police. (Greg LaRose/Louisiana Illuminator) NEW ORLEANS Mayor LaToya Cantrell said Sunday she has asked the Biden administration to provide a tactical expert who can evaluate vulnerable areas of the city ahead of the major events, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors, it will host in the coming weeks. Super Bowl LIX will take place Feb. 9 at the Superdome, but Carnival season officially starts Monday. Several parades will roll through New Orleans streets through Mardi Gras (March 4), and larger-than-average crowds are expected regularly in the French Quarter, where a terrorist raced down Bourbon Street in a pickup truck early Jan. 1, killing 14 people and injuring 37 others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mayor and Gov. Jeff Landry joined officials with the FBI and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms to provide an update to reporters Sunday morning on their investigation of Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, of Texas, who was killed in a shootout with police after his deadly attack. Cantrell was asked about multiple news reports that indicate the new traffic barriers, or bollards, the city is installing in the French Quarter are not strong enough to prevent an attack similar to what happened Wednesday morning. The stainless steel posts that are being replaced had been removed ahead of New Years Eve and the Sugar Bowl, which had been scheduled for Jan. 1, allowing Jabbar to lethally speed through three blocks of Bourbon Street before crashing into a lift vehicle. What were wanting to do is to ensure that boots on the ground with that expert advice to determine whether or not these bollards that youre talking about are sufficient, the mayor said. Were also asking if theyre not, were looking for how and what and where do they need to be placed. City contractors have already installed the receptacles for the new bollards at several intersections along Bourbon Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cantrell also said the city, in conjunction with the governor, wants to have Mardi Gras given a federal level-one Special Assessment Event Rating (SEAR). The designation would bring with it extensive federal interagency support, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Mardi Gras currently has a SEAR level two rating, which the mayor said she has pushed to raise since 2019. The mayor is expected to be among the local, state and federal officials who will meet with President Joe Biden when he and first lady Jill Biden come to New Orleans Monday to visit with victims families. A vehicle is driven over a protective gate Jan 4, 2025, on Toulouse Street near Bourbon Street in New Orleans. Mayor LaToya Cantrell has asked for the federal government to provide an expert who can evaluate the citys remaining vulnerabilities after a Jan. 1 terrorist attack that killed 14 people and injured 37 more. (Greg LaRose/Louisiana Illuminator) FBI details Jabbars travel Lyonel Myrthil, the FBIs special agent in charge of its New Orleans office, said the agency has confirmed that Jabbar traveled to Cairo, Egypt, for four weeks from June to July last year, and then went to Ontario, Canada. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators want to determine if he had contact with anyone in those locations as well as in the Atlanta and Tampa, Florida, areas, which Lyonel said Jabbar also visited over the past year. Jabbar also made two trips to New Orleans before arriving on New Years Eve, according to the FBI, visiting in October and November. Myrthil shared video footage he said Jabbar recorded using the camera in a pair of Meta glasses as he rode a bicycle through the French Quarter during his October trip. Jabbar was wearing Meta glasses when police killed him early Wednesday, but Myrthil said there is no indication Jabbar was recording or live-streaming video during his attack. Additional video shared at Sundays news conference showed Jabbar walking through the French Quarter to place ice chests along Bourbon Street. Someone is also seen moving the cooler Jabbar placed at Bourbon and St. Peter Street one block to the intersection of Bourbon and Orleans Street. Myrthil said the individual did so unwittingly and is not considered an accomplice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Joshua Jackson, who leads the ATFs New Orleans branch, confirmed that a remote detonating device was recovered from Jabbars truck, but it wasnt the sophisticated type available only to the military. The electric match or hobby switch Jabbar planned to use is readily available to the public, and it would have succeeded in detonating the homemade explosive devices had police not stopped Jabbar as soon as they did, Jackson said. Jabbars choice of an electric switch is just indicative of his inexperience and lack of understanding how that material might be set off, Jackson said. Federal investigators have determined the material used to make the bombs based on tests conducted in the field in the French Quarter, at the short-term rental house where Jabbar is believed to have made the bombs and at his mobile home in Houston, Jackson said. Additional tests are being conducted at FBI labs to confirm their makeup. The material is available in the U.S., and Jackson said there is no indication early in the investigation that he obtained any explosive materials from overseas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The semi-automatic 9 mm handgun Jabbar used in the shootout with law enforcement was recovered along with a semi-automatic .308-caliber rifle in his truck. Jackson said Jabbar bought the rifle Dec. 19 from a private seller in Arlington, Texas, in a transaction that is permissible under state law. The seller had no prior relationship with Jabbar and knew nothing about his planned attack in New Orleans, Jackson said. More timeline details Investigators have determined Jabbar visited multiple gun shops in Texas before buying his 9 mm handgun Dec. 31. Myrthil said Jabbar entered Louisiana around 2:30 p.m. that afternoon and rented the Ford F-150 Lightning electric pickup he used in his attack in Gonzales at approximately 9 p.m. Jabbar was seen coming and going from the rental house on Mandeville Street, about 2 miles from where the attack occurred, and left for good at 12:15 a.m. Wednesday, according to federal investigators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jackson said the ATF has determined Jabbar attempted to burn down the house just before departing because a digital thermostat inside switched the air conditioning system inside from heating to cooling at 12:17 a.m. The fire originated inside a linen closet but did not spread because it ran out of oxygen. Jabbar had poured gasoline throughout the house and left a half-gallon fuel can in the hallway that connected all of its rooms. The purpose of the fire could have been to destroy evidence Jabbar left behind or create a distraction while he executed his plan, Jackson said. A neighbor called 911 to report smelling smoke at 5:18 a.m., about five hours after investigators believe the fire was set. French Quarter surveillance video shows Jabbar parking his truck at 12:41 a.m. and walking to Royal and Gov. Nicholls streets. He placed the first cooler at Bourbon and St. Peter shortly afterward. Nearly an hour later, the cooler is seen being moved by someone unaware of the contents inside. At 2:20 a.m, Jabbar is seen leaving a cooler at Bourbon and Toulouse streets. A third improvised bomb was found inside an ice chest in Jabbars truck. Authorities were able to safely neutralize all of the devices once discovered later Wednesday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At 3:15 a.m., Jabbar hastily turned his truck from Canal Street to Bourbon to begin his murderous assault. A construction worker cuts into a section of Bourbon Street on Jan. 4, 2025, where old bollards are being replaced. Multiple news reports have questioned whether the replacements are strong to prevent a vehicle assault similar to the one that killed 14 people early Jan. 1 on Bourbon Street. (Greg LaRose/Louisiana Illuminator) Assistance center opens for families, first responders The FBI has opened an in-person family assistance center for relatives of the victims at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church, 5621 Elysian Fields Ave. In addition to providing needed support, Myrthil said FBI personnel have recovered hundreds of personal items from the attack scene they wish to return to victims families. The center will be open until 7 p.m. Sunday and then from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays for as long as necessary, he said. Cantrell said she received approval from the federal government for first responders, French Quarter employees and witnesses to the attack to receive services from the FBI center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Landry announced that all 14 people killed in the attack will be honored with an official, individual day in their memory through Jan. 23. Chris Raia, deputy FBI director for counterterrorism, told reporters that information from the public has been instrumental in filling gaps in the ongoing investigation and previous attacks over the past 20 years. Over the past year, such information has helped federal agencies disrupt terrorists plans in Oklahoma City and New York City, he said. In addition to its New Orleans-based staff, the FBI has sent more than 200 agents to the city to assist with processing evidence, victim assistance and investigation leads and tips. Louisiana Illuminator is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Louisiana Illuminator maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Greg LaRose for questions: info@lailluminator.com. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey on Monday ordered the inspection of all state-run emergency family shelters after a suspected undocumented immigrant was recently caught with a rifle and a huge drug stash. Leonardo Andujar Sanchez, 28, originally from the Dominican Republic, is being held without bail after being deemed dangerous by a Chelsea District Court judge. Authorities said Sanchez was busted with an AR-15 rifle, large-capacity magazines, ammunition, and fentanyl and cocaine with an estimated street value of at least $750,000 at the Quality Inn on Morris Street off Route 1 in Revere. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its outrageous that this individual took advantage of our shelter system to engage in criminal activity, Healey said in a statement. Ive ordered an inspection of all shelter units, beginning with the Revere site, and a full review of our intake processes to determine any additional steps that we can take to prevent criminal activity in shelters. Healey also called on the federal government to take steps to stop criminals from entering local communities. This further underscores our broken federal immigration system and the urgent need for Congress and the White House to act on a border security bill to prevent criminals from entering our communities, Healey said. The people of Massachusetts should not continue to have to deal with the impacts of federal inaction. MassGOP Chair Amy Carnevale emphasized the urgency of the situation, saying that the incident amounts to a state-funded crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans have called for residency requirements for emergency housing time and time again. This must serve as the final wake-up call to the Democratic supermajority and the Healey-Driscoll Administration to reform the state-funded Emergency Assistance program, Carnevale said in a statement. The Quality Inn in Revere is among 128 hotels and motels that have been used as emergency shelters across the state of Massachusetts since September 2022. The state has vowed to phase out the use of hotels and motels for emergency shelter over the next 18 months. Andujar is due back in court for a probable cause hearing on 11 felony charges in February. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW JAKARTA (Reuters) - More than 200 Rohingya came ashore over the weekend in Indonesia's Aceh province, an official said on Monday, amid growing numbers of arrivals by sea of the stateless population in the Southeast Asian country. The mainly Muslim Rohingya, who are originally from Myanmar and constitute the world's largest stateless population, often escape poor conditions in refugee camps on rickety boats to Thailand or Muslim-majority Indonesia and Malaysia between October and April, when the seas are calmer. More than 200 Rohingya arrived on Sunday evening in the West Peureulak region of East Aceh on Sumatra island, on the western side of Indonesia, said Miftach Tjut Adek, chief of Aceh's fishing community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Faisal Rahman, an official at the United Nations' refugee agency, UNHCR, said the agency is coordinating with local authorities and its team is headed to West Peureulak on Monday. Between October and November last year, more than 500 Rohingya arrived in Indonesia by boat. Almost 1 million Rohingya live in camps in Bangladesh in what U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi has called "the biggest humanitarian refugee camp in the world". In Buddhist-majority Myanmar they are regarded as foreign interlopers from South Asia, and are denied citizenship and abused. More than 2,000 Rohingya arrived in Indonesia in 2023, UNHCR data showed, more than the combined total of arrivals in the previous four years. (Reporting by Stanley Widianto. Editing by Gerry Doyle) WARREN, Ohio (WKBN) The new owners of Trumbull Regional Medical Center and Hillside Rehabilitation Hospital are holding a hiring event in Warren. Insight Hospital and Medical Center Trumbull is hosting a hiring event on Thursday, Jan. 16 from 1 p.m.- 4 p.m. at the hospital located at 1350 E. Market Street. The event will take place on the East Market Street Bridge walkway. Several positions are available including: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Registered Nurse Roles Med/Surg Registered X-Ray Technologist Registered Cat Scan Technologist Multimodality Technologist, including Ultrasound Laboratory Pharmacist Roles Finance Patient Access Distribution Both Trumbull and Hillside are offering improved wage scales and shifts for RN`s. A complete listing of opportunities at Hillside and Trumbull Regional is online. Ownership of Trumbull Regional and Hillside officially changed hands in November from bankruptcy-ridden Steward Health following an October purchase of the two facilities. A website for the hospital in Warren refers to the facility as Insight Hospital and Medical Center Trumbull but also as Trumbull Regional Medical Center with a URL of trumbullregiona.org. Insight Health Systems is based in Flint, Michigan. Its chief medical officer is Rany Aburashed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to Trumbull Regional and Hillside, Insight purchased all of Steward Healths operations in Trumbull and Mahoning counties including the Health Center on Elm Road in Bazetta Township and the Urgent Care in Austintown. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Although 2024 saw its fair share of economic troubles, it was a banner year for one Pacific Northwest angler, who pulled in six figures during five months of fishing without ever entering a tournament. How did they do this, you ask? By catching Northern pikeminnow from the Columbia and Snake Rivers in Oregon and Washington State, where fisheries managers are paying recreational anglers to remove as many of the predatory fish as possible. All told, the top-earning angler of the 2024 season earned $164,260, which set a new payout record for the Northern Pikeminnow Sport-Reward Program, according to the Tri-City Herald. (The previous payout record of $119,000 was set in 2016.) All that angler had to do was catch and kill 16,150 Northern pikeminnow from the Columbia and Snake rivers between May 31 and Sept. 24. The record-breaking payout was also fitting because 2024 was perhaps the most successful year in the reward programs 34-year history. For the first time ever, the program had to shut down early. It was supposed to end on Sept. 30, but by Sept. 24, the program had already doled out its allotted $1.7 million in reward funds. Looking at the top 20 anglers who participated last year, every one of them earned $24,000 or more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Obviously it was a great season, John Hone, a fisheries biologist with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, told the Tri-City Herald. We have never had to close early. Hone said fishing conditions were especially good this year. Participation was also up, he explained in part because of a new mobile app that allowed anglers to register their pikeminnow catches remotely instead of driving to the nearest station as in years past. This fat Northern pikeminnow was caught with a few salmon smolts in its belly. Photo by Northern Pikeminnow Sport-Reward Fishery / Facebook The Northern Pikeminnow Sport-Reward Program is a collaborative, multi-agency effort to boost native populations of salmon and steelhead in the Columbia River Basin by cutting down on the number of pikeminnow in the Columbia River and its largest tributary, the Snake. The program pays recreational anglers for every pikeminnow they catch that is longer than nine inches. The fishery extends on the Columbia between its mouth and Priest Rapids Dam, and on the Snake between the mouth and Hells Canyon Dam. There is also a sliding scale for bounties; anglers earn $6 apiece for their first 25 pikeminnow, $8 for every fish after that, and then the payout goes up to $10 apiece for every fish caught over 200. Specially tagged pikeminnow are worth $500 a pop. The unique program was created in 1991 as a way of mitigating the significant impact that a series of large, hydroelectric dams have had on anadromous fish runs in the region. Because although Northern pikeminnow are native to the Columbia River Basin, these fish also prey on juvenile salmon and steelhead. Which, historically speaking, wasnt a big deal. But by rearranging the ecology of the two major rivers and their tributaries, weve thrown that predator-prey balance totally out of whack. Lower Granite Dam is the uppermost of the Lower Four Snake River Dams. It sits 40 miles downstream of Lewiston, Idaho. VW Pics / Getty The most obvious change to the river system is a series of federally owned dams on the mainstem Columbia and Lower Snake Rivers that are now operated by the Bonneville Power Administration. These dams fundamentally changed the system by blocking off entire segments of river to anadromous fish like salmon and steelhead, and by inundating important spawning areas. The reservoirs created by the dams have also changed historic flows, turning a once-mighty river system into a series of stagnant, warming pools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These changes have only benefitted the Northern pikeminnow, which now have a much easier time preying on salmon and steelhead in the slower, warmer reservoirs. The small, predatory fish now consume millions of out-migrating juvenile salmon and steelhead each year, according to WDFW. This puts even more pressure on the regions dwindling salmon runs. Read Next: Breach or Die: Its Time to Free the Lower Snake River and Save Idahos Wild Salmon And since BPA profits from the power generated by the dams, the utility is now responsible for funding the pikeminnow removal program, which is administered by the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission, and is implemented by WDFW along with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. The programs motto is Save a Salmon (And Make Money Doing It). The programs managers say the results so far have been promising. There have been more than 5.2 million Northern pikeminnow removed from the program area over the last 34 years. This has led to a roughly 40 percent decrease in the number of juvenile salmon preyed on by pikeminnow compared to pre-program levels, according to WDFW. Authorities are searching for those responsible for two gang-related shootings in Maywood Sunday night. The first incident was reported in the 4000 block of 52nd Street at 8:20 p.m., according to the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department. Deputies from the East L.A. station responded to the area on a shots-fired call and arrived to find a woman with at least one gunshot wound. She was transported to a hospital, where her condition remains unknown as of 7 a.m. Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputy patrolling Southern California casino finds man with container of suspected meth at bus stop No suspect information was immediately available, but the shooting was determined to be gang-related and the investigation was turned over to LASDs gang unit. Video posted to the Citizen App shows an active investigation into a gang-related shooting in Maywood on Jan. 5, 2025. A second shooting was reported about an hour and ten minutes later at Slauson Avenue and the L.A. River, officials said. This location is just under two miles east of the site of the first shooting. East L.A. station deputies responded to this shooting as well; upon arrival, they located a man and a woman suffering from gunshot wounds. Mercedes-Benz swerves aggressively through crowd of cyclists blocking Los Angeles street Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both were transported to a nearby medical center with unknown injuries. LASD officials told KTLA that the suspects in the second gang-related shooting fled the scene in a red vehicle, but it is unknown how many occupants were in the vehicle. Officials elaborated that while both incidents were confirmed to be gang-related, they do not appear to be connected. No further details were released. Nancy Fontan contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. One of the yachting industrys titans has passed away. Paolo Vitelli, former chairman of Azimut-Benetti, died December 31 in an accident at his home. He was 77. Tributes have poured in from yachting publications and competitors all over the world, many noting that Vitelli created brands that are as important to yachting as Gucci and Prada are to fashion, or Ferrari and Lamborghini are to the sports-car world. More from Robb Report Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Social media lit up at the news of his death, and the tributes included personal memories of Mr. Vitelli, but most commented on how hed changed yachting, says Michael Verdon, marine/aviation editor at Robb Report. Its hard to quantify one individuals impact without it sounding like hype, but after 55 years Vitelli was still able to change with the times, always ready with the next innovation. He was the real deal. Azimuts first boat in 1975 was an ambitious 43 express cruiser. Born and raised in Torino, Italy, to a family of industrialists, Vitelli began his entrepreneurial career in his late teens by moving to London to learn English and the nightclub business. He returned to Italy, started his own club, which was not a success, then used the proceeds from that business to sail around the coast of Italy. The trip would be a precursor to his career. Vitellis official start in yachting came in 1969 when, aged 22 and studying economics in college, he launched Azimut Srl. The business first chartered sailboats and then represented northern European yacht brands in Italy. In 1975, Vitelli launched the companys first boat, a flybridge express called the 43 Bali. Two years later, the AZ 32 made its debut, aimed at a broader audience of new boaters. With its sunroof and raised wheelhouse, it raised Azimuts profile as an up-and-coming brand. In 1982, Azimuts Failaka 105 became the largest fiberglass boat ever built at that point. It attracted billionaire owners ranging from Aristotle Onassis to David Rockefeller, along with Middle Eastern royalty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the next five decades, Vitelli would build a yachting empire that became the Azimut-Benetti Group. Benetti was an historic shipyard that built the worlds first modern superyacht, Nabila, for the Aga Khan. But the yard went bankrupt because of the vessels cost overruns. In 1985, Vitelli acquired the assets and modernized the yard. For the last 25 years, Azimut-Benetti has been the top global builder of superyachts over 79 feet as measured by total length, according to Boat Internationals annual Global Order Book. Azimuts Atlantic Challenger was an experimental powerboat that crossed the Atlantic without refueling. Vitellis passion for design meant that he was hands-on with new concepts and had extensive input and final say on every new model. Like any entrepreneur, he hired talented managers as the company grew. Benetti became the industrys superyacht juggernaut in yacht output, having launched 485 superyachts since 1985. In 2019, it launched a series of 100 meters-plus vessels (328 feet) within weeks of each other to show it could compete with the Dutch yards and Germanys Lurssen, which builds the worlds largest superyachts. But Azimut remained Vitellis first love. Located in the mountains in Avigliano, outside of Torino, the headquarters expanded its production footprint, creating ever-larger models that often led the industry with new designs. Azimut headquarters in Avigliano is in the heart of the Piedmont mountains, but the marine world has seen many breakthrough designs from there. Vitelli was a restless maestro, overseeing multiple projects that sometimes pushed the boundaries of design and technology. This ranged from partnerships with Pininfarina, which designed cars for Ferrari, to the Atlantic Challenger, a powerboat that made a 1988 Atlantic crossing without refueling. But there were also hundreds of new Azimut models over five decades, ranging from the worlds first carbon-fiber express cruiser to the mini-explorer Magellano series, to its recent series of hybrid-powered yachts, to the Azimut Grande superyacht line. Azimut currently builds 25 models from 48 to 140 across seven lines in Avigliano and four other facilities across Italy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Azimut has always had a solid following in Italy and the Middle East, but the Azimut name took off in North America in 2006 when MarineMax, the largest U.S. dealer, replaced the faltering Sea Ray Yachts line with the Italian brand. The timing was fortunate because it matched growing demand for Euro-styled designs, pushing Azimut to the top slot among yacht brands over 50 feet in the U.S. Beyond boats, Vitelli also was involved in politics, being elected to the Italian Parliament in 2012, when Italys economy was in shambles following the last recession. Our country is weak and needs help, he told me during a visit to Azimut headquarters. When Italys economy improved, Vitelli returned to his company full time. Azimut-Benetti has continued to grow, sometimes by expansion into new countries or through the occasional acquisition. At one point, Vitelli was in talks to purchase the marine assets of Brunswick Corp., the worlds largest boat and engine builder. The 42-foot Azimut Verve and 236-foot Benetti B.Now demonstrate the range of boats in the group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He [Vitelli] believed in pushing boundaries, setting new standards and creating opportunities, Marco Valle, who started as an apprentice 28 years ago and is now Azimut-Benetti CEO, posted on social media. He was fueled by an enduring passion for exploring new frontiers. Valle recalled a whirlwind, round-the-world tour with Vitelli in which the pair sought out potential acquisitions to fuel Azimut-Benettis growth. Vitellis impact also extended beyond his company. Massimo Perotti, now chairman of Sanlorenzo, worked under Vitelli for 20 years before acquiring Sanlorenzo and turning it into a primary competitor. For over 20 years, he [Vitelli] was also a mentor who left an indelible mark on my professional path. Though our roads later diverged, my respect and admiration for him remained steadfast, wrote Perotti on social media after Vitellis death. The Azimut-Benetti chair continued to work into his 70s, telling the Daily Nautica that he fit the stereotype of an enterprising businessman. As happens to all real entrepreneurs, after having reached an objective, I thought of the next one, and the next. Now, close to retirement age, I love to still dream big. Vitelli with his daughter, Giovanna, who has been chairman of the Azimut-Benetti Group since 2022. Before he retired in 2023, Vitelli finally designed the boat he planned to use himself, the B.YOND 37 Meter, for extended living aboard. True to character, he relinquished the first production slot when a customer wanted to buy it. The next 10 production slots were instantly filled. Vitelli spent the last two years renovating an abandoned mountain township he had purchased north of Torino, bringing life back to the village. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company, now being led by his daughter, Giovanna Vitelli as chair, continues to grow, with projected revenues of $1.56 billion this year, a full slate of new model launches for both Azimut Benetti, and an order book that is full until 2029. Vitelli created the only remaining family-owned empire in yachting, says Verdon. The succession plan also seems to be successful, given the companys momentum. Best of Robb Report Sign up for RobbReports's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. A paralyzed man who lives in downtown Sanford during the winter months was among the victims of the New Orleans terror attack, grievously hurt after being struck by the rampaging truck that cut through a crowd of New Years Eve revelers and killed 14 people. I just heard a massive noise, Jeremi Sensky of Washington, Pa., told an NBC News reporter from his hospital bed last week. There were people screaming, and I was laying on the ground. And I saw all my wheelchair parts on the ground beside me. Sensky, paralyzed in a vehicle accident in 1999, said that on early Wednesday morning he lay face down in the street stunned and in horror as he heard gunfire and watched people run in panic. His legs were crushed and his wheelchair was demolished. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said Shamsud-Din Jabbar of Texas drove a rented Ford F-150 pickup at high speed into a crowd on Bourbon Street and on the sidewalk at about 3:15 a.m., also injuring at least 30 people. Jabbar then got out of the truck and engaged in gunfire with police before he was killed, according to reports. An Islamic State flag was found in the truck, and FBI officials said Jabbar was inspired by the terrorist group to carry out the attack. Sensky was on his way to Sanford from southwestern Pennsylvania with his family and friends when the group decided to stop in New Orleans for a few days to celebrate New Years Eve in the citys popular French Quarter. He is so lucky to be alive, daughter Heaven Sensky Kirsch said in a GoFundMe account that has been set up to help pay for her fathers medical expenses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Monday, the GoFundMe account has raised more than $41,000 after Senskys injuries were reported by news organizations around the world. Kirsch told reporters the group, including her father, enjoyed pizza at an eatery near Bourbon Street hours before the attack. Sensky and a friend said they would explore the city on their own. However, the two eventually became separated, according to the GoFundMe account. He was going to make it back to the hotel, Kirsch said to WFTV. He was supposed to call. Kirsch said on GoFundMe that after she and her mom heard about the terrorist attack in the early morning and realized Sensky had not returned, they rushed to the nearest hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We sat with droves of family members searching for their loved ones, she said. By the grace of God, a nurse came out of the trauma unit and said they had a man that was paralyzed. And he was alive and talking. We wailed, Dad was there. And we couldnt believe he was alive. Kirsch told reporters her father plans to head to Sanford, where he owns a home on Orange Avenue, when he leaves the New Orleans hospital. But he has a long road to recovery after a surgery that lasted more than 10 hours to repair his legs. Still, she wrote, My dad is a fighter, and loves to live life. Sensky was paralyzed below the chest after his 1999 accident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last Friday, United Cajun Navy, a disaster-relief organization, partnered with Permobil Foundation, which provides people with disabilities mobility help, to donate a new wheelchair to Sensky that will be custom-fitted for him, according to WAFB of Baton Rouge, La. Theres a lot of helpers out there, Kirsch said. A lot of really good people. Jimmy Cragg, 6, was diagnosed with leukemia after doctors dismissed his symptoms as tonsillitis or a "bug going around" The boy had a sore throat, cough, and swollen glands but it was the bruising on his back that led doctors to test for leukemia His mom, Wendy, advises parents to "trust their guts and to keep pushing" A mom says her 6-year-olds sore throat and swollen glands were dismissed as tonsillitis or a bug going around but his symptoms were actually a sign of blood cancer, leukemia. In November, Jimmy Cragg came down with what his mother Wendy described as common flu-like symptoms: He had a cold and a cough, and a dry mouth and sore throat, Wendy, 43, told South West News Service via The Daily Mail. He also had some bruises on his back, but as his mom explains, six-year-olds bump into everything so the bruises were difficult to classify as a symptom of his illness, which was dismissed as "the usual Christmas bug going around schools." Wendy Cragg/SWNS Will and Wendy Cragg with their son Jimmy Will and Wendy Cragg with their son Jimmy When the family, who hails from the English town of Yateley, noticed Jimmy had a swollen lymph node in his neck, they sought medical care but they said not to worry, it's just a swollen gland from his bug. From there, Jimmys condition deteriorated, Wendy shares. He started speaking funny before his schools nativity play, but when they took him back to the doctor, they said it was probably tonsillitis, she told the outlet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After five days, Jimmy didnt improve, and the family was advised to finish his course of antibiotics. A doctor told us it was just due to tonsillitis and we needed to wait it out. Wendy Cragg/SWNS Jimmy Cragg, 6, was diagnosed with leukemia Jimmy Cragg, 6, was diagnosed with leukemia Related: 17-Year-Old Beats Cancer for the Third Time But His Focus Is on Giving Back to Other Sick Kids When Jimmy began vomiting, Wendy says they were still advised to wait. Frustrated with their doctors, she says, We were done by then. We got in the car and took him to the hospital. It wasnt until someone at the hospital noticed the bruising on his back that they ordered blood tests. As the American Cancer Society says, bruising is a sign of low platelet count a symptom of childhood leukemia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Dec. 16, the Craggs received the news that their son had blood cancer. It's every parent's worst nightmare. It was just the worst thing to hear. We were just massively shocked. We still are, Wendy said. Wendy Cragg/SWNS Jimmy Cragg, 6, spends Christmas in the hospital. Jimmy Cragg, 6, spends Christmas in the hospital. Related: NFL Reporter Shares Death of 2-Year-Old Daughter After Leukemia Diagnosis: 'She Deserved the World' Jimmy spent Christmas in the hospital, his mom says, as he is now undergoing chemotherapy and lumbar punctures, and while hes staying at Southamptom Hospital, he had the idea to raise money to improve the childrens ward and not only brighten his days but also benefit his fellow patients, the GoFundMe says. We are in a position where we've caught this early. So we're grateful for that and grateful that we trusted our instincts, Wendy told the outlet. We're lucky that we caught it early but that's because we took him to [the emergency room] even though we were told not to. Who knows what would have happened if we didn't? I'd tell parents they have to trust their guts and to keep pushing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Read the original article on People Subscribe to The Podcast by KevinMD. Watch on YouTube. Catch up on old episodes! We discuss the transformative potential of a standardized affiliation agreement (SAA) in nurse practitioner education with Lynn McComas, CEO and founder of PreceptorLink. As a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students, Lynn shares insights into how an SAA could streamline clinical placements, reduce barriers for preceptors, and ensure students receive the hands-on training they need to succeed in their careers. Lynn McComas is CEO and founder, PreceptorLink, and a recognized expert in precepting nurse practitioners and advanced practice provider students. She discusses the KevinMD article, How a standardized agreement could end the preceptor shortage. Our presenting sponsor is DAX Copilot by Microsoft. DAX Copilot, by Microsoft, is your AI assistant for automated clinical documentation and workflows. DAX Copilot allows physicians to do more with less and turn their words into a powerful productivity tool. DAX Copilot automates clinical documentationmaking it available in the EHR within minutesand clinical workflows, including referral letters, after-visit summaries, style and formatting customizations, and more. 70 percent of physicians who use DAX Copilot say it improves their work-life balance while reducing feelings of burnout and fatigue. Patients love it too! 93 percent of patients say their physician is more personable and conversational, and 75 percent of physicians say it improves patient experiences. Discover AI-powered solutions for clinical documentation and workflows. Click here to see a 12-minute DAX Copilot demo. VISIT SPONSOR https://aka.ms/kevinmd SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended GET CME FOR THIS EPISODE https://www.kevinmd.com/cme Im partnering with Learner+ to offer clinicians access to an AI-powered reflective portfolio that rewards CME/CE credits from meaningful reflections. Find out more: https://www.kevinmd.com/learnerplus Transcript Kevin Pho: Welcome to the show. Subscribe at KevinMD.com/podcast. Today, we welcome back Lynn McComas. Shes a nurse practitioner and a CEO and founder of PreceptorLink. Todays KevinMD article is How a Standardized Agreement Could End the Preceptor Shortage. Lynn, welcome back to the show. Lynn McComas: Thank you so much. I appreciate you having me back. Kevin Pho: All right. So tell us about this latest article. Whats it about? Lynn McComas: Yeah, so in our business, I noticed over and over again that one of the largest barriers that the students and the schools were having was the inability to secure new affiliation agreements. So theres almost 500 nurse practitioner schools nationwide, and every single school has a different agreement. The process to create a new affiliation agreement is extremely time-consuming. Its expensive, and it involves legal teams. Every time they do it, more money and more time are required. Many times, school affiliations are not made because they dont want to create a new one within the new site. So students are frequently turned down from sites because of the affiliation agreement. For years after I started our business, I kept seeing this, and I thought, well, theres got to be a better way. At the time, my son was going through college applications, and he was using the Common App to apply to colleges. I thought, gosh, thats a great idea. It seems like we should be able to do something like that with affiliation agreements. So I started to explore this, and I thought, you know, lets see if anything like this exists already. And it did. It exists in medicine. The Association of American Medical Colleges developed something called the Uniform Clinical Training Affiliation Agreement, the UCTAA. They did exactly what I was thinking would be useful. They streamlined the affiliation agreement process so that medical schools could be more easily affiliated with clinical sites. Its been well adopted, and its been used for years by hundreds of different medical institutions and schools, so its definitely saving money. At the time, I thought, lets not reinvent the wheel. Lets see if we can utilize this. I actually reached out to the lawyer who wrote it, and he was extremely helpful and forthcoming. He said, Use it. Take it. Its public. So I did reach out to a lawyer, we rewrote it for nursing, and Ive been trying to get the profession to embrace it. It really could save so much money and time. There was a report to Congress many years ago on the Graduate Nursing Education Demonstration Project, a well-known project that was done in Florida in the nurse practitioner world, and it showed that having a strong affiliation with a clinical site can save schools of nursing up to five, 582,000 a year. So there really is a tremendous amount of potential that could be used, probably not just for NP programs, but even nursing programs and PA programs. To me, it seemed like theres a lot of potential that could be done here with this idea. Kevin Pho: So let me see if I have this right. If youre a nurse practitioner student, you cannot precept at a clinical site unless they have an official affiliation agreement with that school, and each school has to have separate affiliation agreementstheres nothing standardizedand that is an obstacle for some clinical sites to accept students from certain schools that dont have this agreement. Is that right? Lynn McComas: That is exactly correct. Yes. Same is true with medicine. Same is true with physician assistant PA schools. Its all the same, and thats one of the big barriers. Kevin Pho: And in order to arrange such an agreement, you have to go through multiple layers of bureaucracy and legal issues before they make that commitment? Lynn McComas: Exactly true, yes. Kevin Pho: So when you approached some of the nurse practitioner authorities about perhaps a standardized agreement, similar to the AAMC, what was their response? Lynn McComas: Well, unfortunately, I just couldnt get anywhere with it. I couldnt get to anyone who was willing to think this was a great idea. There are several different organizing bodies within the NP profession. Someone should take this. They dont need to pay us. Well just give it to them, or they can take the idea and redo it themselves. Whether its a national organization, nurse practitioner faculty, NONPF, AANP, or one of the many other organizations, someone, I really think, should at least try this. Of course, there are different state requirements. Of course, there are different school requirements and site requirements. Generally, though, the basics are uniform; they are the same. Then there could be addendums, just like with the Common App. There could be addendums for each school or each site that could be added on. I just never got much interest, which is part of the reason I wanted to come onto see if we could spark some interest and conversation. Maybe there are reasons behind the lack of interest, but at least lets talk about it. Kevin Pho: And is there no way for a prospective nurse practitioner student to precept at a site without an agreement? They cant do it under the table? They cant do it informally? Is there no way for them to do that? Lynn McComas: Rarely theres a siterarely, rarely, rarelythat does not require an affiliation agreement. But in general, every site has to have some type of agreement for liability and safety between the site and the school. Kevin Pho: So give us an example or a story of how this lack of an agreement, or a lack of a standardized agreement, impeded some of your clients or some of the students that youve heard trying to get preceptorship positions. Lynn McComas: Gosh, it happens on a daily basis where we might have a willing preceptor. For example, the hospitals are where this is the biggest issue. At private practice, its not usually quite as big a deal because theyre more willing to take on an affiliation thats kind of a one-off. But with the hospitals, they will do a handful of schools, and thats it. Even their employee who maybe works there but goes to a different school than what they already have listed and approved would just be turned away. So we might have a willing preceptor and a student, and everything fits perfectly, but the hospital says, Im sorry, were not doing any more affiliation agreements, and this poor student is then left having to start over again with the search. The search to find a preceptor is not an easy one; its a very difficult, very difficult process for the students, which is why they come to us. Its not easy for us as well. So it happens on a daily basis where the school doesnt have an affiliation in place with the clinic or the siteor the hospitaland the student then cannot proceed. Kevin Pho: And what exactly goes into these agreements? Lynn McComas: Well, its the typical kind of things: where they accept the requirements for liability insurance or supervision of the nurse practitioner or the physician preceptor. You know, all of the typical concerns that go on any affiliation agreement. Its a lot of standard things. But again, each school phrases it a little bit differently. We see them all the time. We see them come through, and some of them really dont look that differentjust slightly different wordingwhich is why I think the standardized agreement really just makes sense now. Kevin Pho: For those looking for preceptor positions, you mentioned that private practices dont have as much stringent bureaucracy. Do you advise them to target private practices first because they dont have as much of a rigid policy regarding these agreements? Lynn McComas: Yeah, so it depends, because sometimes if there is an affiliation agreement in place, the hospital can be great because it might open up multiple opportunities. But with a private practice, number one, theyre becoming fewer and fewer; there just are not as many as there used to be. The big hospital institutions are buying up practices, so that option just isnt there as much anymore. Even if it is a private practice, it might be owned by a hospital, and they still have to go through the same affiliation process. Its just not that easy. There arent as many as there used to be, and the processes are difficult. Even at a private practice, its going to have to have an agreement and go through the liability. The standardized affiliation could still work for a private practice as well. Kevin Pho: So tell us a success story, I guess, if your ideal vision came to be, and there was a standardized agreement for nurse practitioner preceptorships. What exactly would that look like if everything that you want went according to plan? Lynn McComas: Well, I think its everything that the profession should want, ideallynot just me. You know, our goal is to try and help streamline this whole process, and this is one step in that direction. So the students and the school and the site would already know that theyre using the common contract or standardized affiliationwhatever its called. They would know theres a list, just like there is for the one in medicine, showing all of the places that take it. It would just simplify and streamline something that can literally take two, three, even six months to put in place. It could probably be done much less expensively, much more quickly, and be able to bring through more students in a much more simplified way. That would be my vision. Kevin Pho: Were talking to Lynn McComas. Shes a nurse practitioner and the CEO and founder of PreceptorLink. Todays KevinMD article is How a Standardized Agreement Could End a Preceptor Shortage. Lynn, as always, well end with some take-home messages that you want to leave with the KevinMD audience. Lynn McComas: Yeah, so I do want to say that this would not end; this would help simplify the preceptor shortage, but its one stepjust one little step. I hope that the profession will be open to this and explore it. Im happy to talk to anyone about what we have created and share it with any of the organizing bodies out there so that we can help simplify this one process. Thanks again for having me on. Kevin Pho: Lynn, thank you so much again for sharing your perspective and insight. Thanks again for coming back on the show. WEST PALM BEACH A 64-year-old man was struck and killed Saturday night by a hit-and-run driver, police said Sunday. West Palm Beach Police spokesperson Michael Jachles said officers received a call just after 7:30 p.m. Saturday about a man lying in the street on Broadway, just south of 32nd Street. Officers attempted to revive him, but were unsuccessful. Fire Rescue workers arriving on the scene pronounced the man dead, Jachles said. Investigators determined that the man had been struck by a vehicle heading south on Broadway, and believe the pedestrian had been crossing from east to west when he was struck. The southbound lanes of Broadway were closed while officers began their investigation and canvassed the area, Jachles said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jachles did not disclose the mans name, saying next of kin had not yet been located, but that the man was believed to be homeless. Police are asking for the publics help in finding the driver responsible. City police can be reached at (561) 822-1900, or an anonymous tip can be directed to Palm Beach County Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS (8477), or by visiting crimestopperspbc.com. Also, video evidence can be submitted anonymously by downloading the SaferWatch app or sending a text to (561) 878-8477. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Hit-and-run crash on West Palm Beach street kills 64-year-old man EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) A pedestrian was struck by a vehicle and airlifted for treatment on Sunday afternoon, Jan. 5 in El Pasos West Side, El Paso Fire Dispatch said. The crash, involving a vehicle and pedestrian, happened just after 12:30 p.m. Sunday along the 4000 block of Doniphan. El Paso Police said their Special Traffic Investigations unit responded and was looking into the crash. Police said the crash involved serious injuries, but provided no other details. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will update this story when we learn more. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) said Sunday that the violence of the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol didnt end that day. It didnt end that day, Pelosi told CBS Newss Margaret Brennan on Face the Nation. As you know, [President-elect Trump] called out to these people to continue their violence, my husband being a victim of all of that, and it still he still has injuries from that attack. The fourth anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021, attack occurs this Monday. Trump has promised to grant clemency to rioters who showed up at the Capitol that day as Congress certified President Bidens 2020 election win. The president-elect has also implied that some pardons could be issued in the first few hours of his second term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its really a strange person whos going to be president of the United States, who thinks that its OK to pardon people who are engaged in an attack, Pelosi said in her Face the Nation appearance. Some former Capitol Police officers who were present amid the Jan. 6 attack have said that Trumps commitment to pardon rioters is a betrayal. Its a betrayal, a stab in the heart, former Sgt. Aquilino Gonell, who received long-lasting injuries on the day of the attack, said to The Washington Post. Gonells fellow former Capitol Police officer, Harry Dunn, has said that forgiving insurrectionists for violent actions displays a lack of accountability from the commander in chief. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They broke the law, violated police officers, attacked us, and then went back and said we did it in the name of Donald Trump, Dunn said. And then Donald Trump is going to pardon them and say its OK, all is forgiven. The Hill has reached out to the Trump transition team for comment. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Editors note: Artificial intelligence promises to reshape human existence. In this essay, Eric Schmidt, the former CEO of Google, argues it has the potential to unleash unprecedented human potential and the most efficient and transparent government in history. But Lyric Kaplan, counsel at AI League for Good, contends in another essay that without regulation, AI presents an existential risk that could result in a totalitarian cyberdystopia. Is there a middle ground? As the Nazi armies descended on Europe, H.G. Wells wrote a book called The New World Order, outlining a path to world peace. Wells was not only the best-known science fiction writer of his time, but also a utopian socialist. And in fact, according to Wells, the two went hand in hand, with scientific and human progress moving in lockstep. Even before the creation of the internet, Wells held a deep belief in the transformative power of technology to expand human knowledge, advance world peace and connect societies across geographies. In an almost complete inversion of todays battle lines, the West in the 1940s saw a lively debate between socialist techno-optimists and capitalist individualists. Those on the left imagined a central decision-maker that would ultimately be able to make optimal allocations based on a rational cost-benefit analysis. One Austrian philosopher of science, Otto Neurath, advocated socialist planning where the economy would be treated as if it were one factory. Libertarians like Austrian economist Friedrich von Hayek disagreed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The potential of a true singularity today gives rise to a similar hope. Twenty-first century techno-optimists, now often coming from among the worlds most successful capitalists, imagine a superintelligent artificial general intelligence that can outperform all human intelligence and be leveraged to solve the worlds greatest challenges. The more utopian of the techno-optimists envisage a world in which artificial general intelligence agents replace human policymakers altogether. Like many revolutionary thinkers, todays techno-optimists take things too far. They misunderstand what is required for a government to be perceived as legitimate by citizens who have become accustomed to democratic processes; worse, they overlook how democracies exist not merely to fulfill particular administrative goals but to engender a sense of equality and empowerment across society. While we should not wholesale replace democracy with algocracy rule by algorithms the techno-optimists have indeed identified something essential: AI will radically transform the way governments make every decision, from the local to the global. For perhaps the first time since democracys modern inception in the late 18th century, the age of AI will force a reckoning with that very system. Citizens will need to reaffirm why democracy remains important in their lives. Leaders will need to reevaluate what is working and what is not and innovate accordingly. If democracy is to survive this century and beyond, it must evolve. This new reality, however, should not evoke fear or regret. It is cause for excitement and hope. The opportunities afforded by AI to make governance better are unprecedented in human history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far, the military domain has led the way on the public adoption of AI. This has played out most clearly on the battlefields of Ukraine, where the Ukrainian military has tried keeping pace with the much larger Russian military through technological innovations. From open-source intelligence collection to AI-powered drones, the technology has already begun to rewrite how wars are fought. Soon, however, other sectors from health care to education will follow. As AI systems continuously improve, governments will have to make tough calls balancing equity, speed and cost about which decisions to delegate to these new technologies and which to reserve for human oversight. AI has enormous potential to improve the way the local and national governments operate across a range of responsibilities executive, judicial and legislative. With the help of new predictive models and novel data collection tools, it will allow executive branch leaders to make more informed and data-driven decisions, especially with time constraints in moments of crisis. Judges, too, will be able to make better, fairer and faster decisions when assisted by AI models built on past cases and adjusted for human and data-based biases. And on a legislative level, policymakers will summon expert research at any moment and access tools that can help draft and amend laws in seconds. Beyond improving decision-making processes and government efficiency, AI can also help build support for and faith in democratic governance itself. Through new crowdsourcing mechanisms enabled by AI, governments can more easily aggregate citizen preferences and encourage direct citizen participation, facilitating more people to engage in their own governance and scaling the practice of democracy. By expanding the possibilities for new forms of collective decision-making, AI could fundamentally change what it means to be a politician, a citizen and everything in between At the same time, deep-rooted norms of procedural justice and human leadership should give pause to those who foresee a full-scale victory of an AI social planner. After all, 20th century socialist planners similarly proved only too fallible. The coming of artificial general intelligence may herald less of a new world order and more of an improved version of our current liberal order: Democracy 2.0. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like many revolutionary thinkers, todays techno-optimists take things too far. They misunderstand what is required for a government to be perceived as legitimate by citizens who have become accustomed to democratic processes. Whether to use AI in governance is an active choice. Why, then, should we involve new technologies in areas so sensitive to the functioning of our democratic process? The simple answer is that our current methods just arent good enough. Our current tools of governance are riddled with human bias, leading to suboptimal outcomes and public discontent. Among others, we know that political decisions are swayed by availability and recency biases politicians spent billions on counterterrorism operations after 9/11 but paid little heed to the risk of a global pandemic prior to Covid-19. Experiments consistently show that highly educated and partisan individuals in other words, the politicians in charge are least likely of all to update their political opinions with new information. This does not bode well for an already polarized political class, especially in the United States. As if that were not enough, human decision-making is also negatively influenced by physical constraints: Military operators perform worse when tired; judges are less lenient right before lunchtime. With the help of AI, governments will be able to deliver more services better, cheaper and faster. In short, AI can help those in charge make better decisions. For instance, AI will prove an important weapon in the fight against corruption and fraud. In 2022, the U.S. IRS was able to respond to less than a third of calls made during tax season. In the future, large language models and AI agents should alleviate the burden by managing taxpayer inquiries, and algorithms will augment human analysts ability to detect fraud and tax evasion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Artificial intelligence is by no means without flaws: Algorithms, too, are made by humans and thus vulnerable to many of the same biases. COMPAS, perhaps the most widely used AI tool in the U.S. judicial system, has faced criticism for its perceived racial bias in determining recidivism risk. But for AI, biases can be less static. The models are trained on particular sets of data and can be retrained on better, more inclusive data if the algorithms display inadequacies over time. Even imperfect algorithms can still be useful in pointing out human biases as they appear. Adoption of AI will take different shapes across the various branches of government, at times replacing human decisions, though more often enhancing and informing them. Indeed, the process of developing an AI to make autonomous decisions is actually quite distinct from developing an AI to complement human decision-making and the latter will likely prove to be more impactful in the public sphere. The integration of AI in governance will thus more often be a response to human fallibility than an assertion of algorithmic prowess. At a time when the world is facing a convergence of geopolitical crises, it is especially promising that AI has the potential to substantially improve executive decision-making. Its role here follows from its unique ability to process massive amounts of data at warp speed. Imagine the commander in chief being faced with the decision of whether to order a retaliatory missile strike on a position in a hostile country. Currently, the president would likely call on advisers, who at most would have quickly solicited memos from their departments with differing degrees of knowledge about the issue at stake. With the help of AI, however, the White House could summarize all incoming intelligence reports from various agencies and historical diplomatic cables, analyze a treasure trove of open-source information and then arrive at an informed recommendation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AI can also vastly improve the predictive capabilities of our executive apparatus. It could simulate different scenarios in a matter of minutes, helping those in charge better prepare for various contingencies. By relying on local sentiment analysis, sensor data and historical datasets, AI has already helped augment human abilities to predict political trends and crises and will surely grow ever better with time. Greg Mably for the Deseret News Decision-makers could also rely on large language models to red team U.S. foreign policy, dynamically simulating how other actors would react to U.S. moves. Beyond running a war game once or twice, one could simulate a war game thousands of times and ask the model to summarize its findings. One could also imagine a Putin chatbot trained on public and classified information based on the Russian presidents actions, beliefs and pronouncements. In these ways, AI can improve contextual understanding and recommend courses of action to the humans in charge. The preeminent case of AI compensating for lapses in human judgment is in the courtroom. While courts have historically enjoyed higher levels of public confidence compared to political branches, in recent years they have become mired in perceptions of bias and partisanship, often with good reason. AI could significantly increase the speed and fairness of judicial decisions. In the courtroom, AI will largely augment rather than replace human decision-making. AI would be able to detect patterns of bias that judges themselves cannot see and assess risks based on predictive capabilities. Leveraging its ability to analyze large numbers of existing precedents, AI systems could compile decisions handed down by courts in similar cases and help judges make more informed, more consistent and more equitable choices. Judges can even help tailor the models input system to their particular needs, deciding which precedents to base their decisions on, and use large language models to summarize relevant rulings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In some instances, AI models may be able to substitute for low-level and routine judicial decisions about traffic violations or other misdemeanors. But judges and juries should always have the final say. What is more, the models they rely on should be auditable and transparent, with the information encoded in it both archived and accessible. Such a requirement may be hard to accept and deliver for AI companies but will be critical to ensure public trust in judicial sentencing. Encryption methods and evaluative algorithms can protect companies trade secrets while forcing models to reveal the rationales behind their recommendations. To protect technology providers, third-party auditors could be designated to legitimate algorithmic standards. Perhaps most utopian is the idea that AI could help the U.S. Congress and similar bodies emerge from perpetual legislative gridlock. In time, though, AI can equip lawmakers with powerful tools to make better informed decisions, predict outcomes, streamline administrative tasks and potentially reach agreement. By processing large datasets from a variety of sources including public opinion surveys, social media, economic indicators and historical voting patterns, AI algorithms can identify trends that will help legislators understand the potential impact of their proposed laws and predict public reactions to them. For example, AI can analyze the economic effects of proposed taxes by simulating scenarios and providing legislators with a range of possible outcomes. Such a tool would have been immensely helpful ahead of President Emmanuel Macrons attempted carbon tax in France in 2018, which ended up generating immense public uproar through the Yellow Vests movement. With enhanced foresight, AI could help policymakers preempt and redesign legislation before a backlash ensues. AI can also improve the efficiency and accuracy of legislative processes. The Congressional Research Service, which provides comprehensive research and analysis to members of Congress, could leverage AI to significantly augment its capabilities. Natural language processing algorithms can assist in drafting, amending and analyzing legislative texts by quickly identifying inconsistencies or redundancies with existing laws. This can significantly reduce the time and effort required for legal research to ensure that proposed bills are coherent and legally sound. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For something as simple as constituent services, AI could analyze communication from the public, categorize issues and prioritize responses based on urgency and relevance. AI-driven platforms could similarly facilitate more effective public consultations, allowing citizens to provide input on legislative proposals through user-friendly interfaces. Overall, AI could make governments more open and responsive to the needs of the public, strengthening the link between the state and the people. AI will radically transform the way governments make every decision, from the local to the global. For perhaps the first time since democracys modern inception in the late 18th century, the age of AI will force a reckoning with that very system. With such extensive applications of AI across government, were the techno-optimists right after all? Should algorithms simply take over for flawed human decision-makers? Not quite. The challenge of AI in governance is more than just a technical one. In a deeper sense, governance by AI risks a crisis of legitimacy. Already, trust in traditional institutions is at a record low. Opaque decisions at the behest of unaccountable AI systems may only further erode trust: One can easily imagine the populist vitriol against an administrative state beholden to Big Tech. So far, the paradox of AI is that people do not trust AI but are eager to use it. Surveys find that AI is seen as both more effective but also less trustworthy than human systems. Governance by AI falls into the same trap as governance by experts. It presumes that all political decisions are simply technical decisions that can be clearly and cleanly solved with the right information. Indeed, it is true that certain policy decisions objectively promote human flourishing more effectively than others. It is also true that there are many administrative functions which can be easily sorted, and which would produce profound inefficiencies if the government were to consult the public on each one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But many political decisions are reached through some compromise of competing values and priorities. As Aristotle put it in the Nicomachean Ethics, No one deliberates about things that are invariable, nor about things that it is impossible for him to do. Even if AI can perfectly simulate citizen preferences, public legitimacy rests as much on an inclusive and transparent process as it does on the end result. Delegating important decisions to a superintelligent black box seems to take technocracy to its logical extreme. Government by AI threatens to further concentrate power in the hands of unaccountable bureaucrats, technocrats and, in some cases, autocrats. Rather than converting citizens preferences into policies by means of a transparent political process, AI takes an inconceivably large number of inputs and with the help of often opaque algorithms arrives at a seemingly unexplainable output. Even if its output suggestions significantly outperform humans on some metrics, the process of arriving at these does not inspire public trust. In fact, delegating power to AI may offer a convenient way for elected politicians to deflect criticism and provide an excuse for incompetence at best and authoritarianism at worst. Rather than outsourcing decisionmaking power to AI, we can use AI to improve the democratic process itself, yielding new forms of lawmaking and legislative engagement. In this way, AI will not only enable better decisions among individuals in government; it could even help foster a more democratic civic culture on a systematic level, with increased participation, deliberation and social cohesion dispersed throughout society. Historically, democratic legitimacy has rested on two pillars: deliberation and mass participation. Different institutional configurations prioritize these ideals to varying degrees, and they are at times in tension with each other. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the dawn of democracy in ancient Athens, a balance was sought by pairing a popular assembly a form of direct democracy, where all citizens could choose to participate with smaller deliberative bodies that were composed of citizens selected at random. The tension between deliberation and mass participation grew as large nation-states replaced homogenous city-states and elections emerged as the locus of modern democracy in the 18th century. Voting and occasional plebiscites were thought to satisfy the need for mass participation, with deliberative principles shaping parliamentary debates upstream, though seldom reaching the average citizen. Today, as populist waves proliferate across the world and citizens demand a more central role in public deliberations, advocates of deliberative democracy hope that sortition-based citizens assemblies can empower citizens and revitalize our political discourse. But so far, experiments in deliberative democracy are limited in size to a few hundred individuals at most. It is logistically infeasible to have humans moderate and participate in much larger fora. This is where AI comes in. AI has the ability to scale deliberative democracy and thus help resolve the fundamental tension between deliberation and mass participation. A virtual town hall or hundreds of simultaneous town halls could be run across an entire country through an AI platform that crowdsources inputs. An online forum could elicit comments from citizens and then aggregate common ground perspectives with the input of experts. Each citizen could have an AI chatbot in their pocket that serves as a deliberative partner, forcing them to contend with opposing views and sharpen their justifications. Variations of these ideas may suit different governments, and policymakers should experiment with pluralistic approaches. An early example is Pol.is, an AI platform that has managed to engage as much as half of Taiwans population, aggregating and analyzing citizen feedback in real time. Taiwan has used this platform to help achieve public alignment on the question of AI regulation, bolstering the legitimacy of its government. In a way, the solution to too much AI may be more AI. Taiwan and other countries are not shifting power to unaccountable algorithms but instead using AI as a tool to devolve power to their own citizens. Leaders will need to reevaluate what is working and what is not and innovate accordingly. If democracy is to survive this century and beyond, it must evolve. The crisis of legitimacy is real when it comes to AI, and if new technologies are to be used in government, they will require a careful balance of the promise and risks. AI works best when it is human-centered, constantly improving its algorithms based on human feedback and communication. Only if guided by clear values will AI be able to restore trust in political decision-makers. To promote public trust and legitimacy, AI-assisted decision-making should be governed by principles of accountability and explainability. First, humans must remain the final arbiter when it comes to the core functions of the state. Consequently, humans must also be the ones accountable. People acting on the basis of algorithmic recommendations, be they a low-level judge or a president, must still be held to account when their decisions go awry. Affected citizens should be able to appeal government decisions that were made with the help of AI. Second and relatedly, bureaucratic decisions in critical areas must remain explainable which will be no easy feat when involving large language models, but which will hopefully get more precise with time. Politicians and bureaucrats need the technical expertise to be able to understand the output of the algorithms that inform their decisions. Those in charge have to be able to justify decisions to impose a trade embargo or commute a criminal sentence even, and especially, if they are made with the help of AI. Third, AI systems used in the public sector must be subject to stringent controls related to nondiscrimination as well as privacy. Chinas social credit score system conjures fears of a dystopian panopticon where every step is tracked and any click can be used against us. While in office, President Donald Trump instructed Congress to use social media to detect disability fraud. Sadly, the United States is not immune to the allure of mass surveillance, either. These challenges are daunting to say the least. As technically advanced as new AI models may be, they will not be able to overcome crises of trust and legitimacy unless they are understandable to the general public. A successful transition to a new era of governance means that not only AI models will have to become better at communicating their insights political leaders will too. The humans in charge will need to proceed with caution in introducing these new models of decision-making, always remaining transparent about the risks and challenges ahead. But leaders should not be so afraid of AI that they foreclose its applications altogether. AI systems do not act on their own; ultimately, it is a human choice whether to use AI in government. We maintain agency over how we design it, and in doing so can set the parameters for how it engages in the world. As discussed, governments can accrue tremendous benefits through the use of AI, leading to faster and fairer decisions across executive, judicial and legislative domains. Even more important than any singular use case, the very process of interacting with and shaping government can be improved by AI, with new deliberative and participatory mechanisms that make the democratic ideal of self-rule accessible to all. To prepare for a future where we embrace the promise of AI for good governance, we first have to ensure that the public sector does not fall behind. The U.S. government needs to invest in resources data, software that enable the rapid innovation, adoption and scaling of explainable, transparent and reliable AI. Building on the AI Executive Order 12, the White House should continue to encourage federal agencies to adopt these new technologies.Above all, good leadership starts with the right people. The U.S. government should undertake an all-out effort to recruit the countrys top talent. Organizations like Horizon, Partnership for Public Service, and the Nobel Reach Foundation have been leading the charge to recruit top technical talent for public service. Our best and brightest should help build and implement AI tools that can augment and assist human decision-making. If we get this right, this new age of AI should make our politics more data-driven and more democratic, less arbitrary and less polarized. Eric Schmidt is the former chairman and CEO of Google. This essay was adapted from The Digitalist Papers, a project of Stanford University and published with permission by the Stanford Digital Economy Lab. This story appears in the January/February 2025 issue of Deseret Magazine. Learn more about how to subscribe. Editors note: Artificial intelligence promises to reshape human existence. In this essay, Lyric Kaplan, counsel at AI League for Good, argues that without regulation, AI presents an existential risk that could result in a totalitarian cyberdystopia. But Eric Schmidt, the former CEO of Google, contends in another essay that AI has the potential to unleash unprecedented human potential and the most efficient and transparent government in history. Is there a middle ground? Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming the most transformative technology of the 21st century. From smart assistants and self-driving cars to medical diagnostics, AI is making its presence felt in almost every aspect of our lives. But with great potential comes significant risk, and one of the areas most affected by this new technological revolution is our democratic institutions. Recent reports have shown declining public trust in government institutions, and AIs power to influence and shape information may be a major contributing factor. The events surrounding Cambridge Analyticas psychographic profiling serve as stark reminders of AIs potential impact. The Democracy Index, published annually by The Economist, reported that half of the worlds countries saw their scores fall in recent years, including the United States, which was demoted from full democracy to flawed democracy. This decline was largely due to an erosion of confidence in public institutions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AI is increasingly being used to influence information dissemination, voter behavior and public discourse actions that are reshaping the democratic landscape. These impacts highlight the need for careful scrutiny and regulation of AIs role in society. Beyond elections, a new generation of AI-driven technology stacks being deployed to industries like surveillance are compromising individual privacy, a key pillar of democratic society. The relationship between AI, privacy and democracy is complex. It will be up to tech companies and government to strike a balance between innovation and, when it comes to preserving democracy, safeguarding our core constitutional values. While proponents argue that these technologies can help prevent crime and enhance security, critics warn that they can also be used to stifle dissent and target marginalized communities. Ai technology is often portrayed as a force for good an innovation that enhances productivity, reduces inefficiencies and makes life more convenient. AI-powered devices can recommend personalized products, predict our preferences and assist us with everything from writing emails to navigating busy roads. AI has also been transformative in fields like health care, where machine learning models are being used to detect diseases earlier and with greater accuracy, and in education, where personalized learning tools can adapt to each students unique needs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But as with any powerful tool, AI can also be used to harm. The vast amounts of personal data required for AI to function pose significant risks to privacy and individual autonomy. The technology that powers your smart assistant and provides personalized recommendations can also be used to track your behavior, build detailed profiles of you and influence your decisions without your awareness. AI is at the core of big data analytics and the Internet of Things, both of which contribute to the vast surveillance ecosystem we find ourselves in today and have made it possible to gather information on an unprecedented scale. These things include everything from wearable fitness trackers to smart thermostats. They are all collecting data on our activities, preferences and habits. When combined with AI, these devices create a powerful surveillance network capable of building detailed profiles of our behaviors. This surveillance ecosystem isnt limited to just the private sector. Governments are also using AI-driven technologies to monitor citizens. The third-party doctrine, which allows the government to collect information from third-party providers (such as telecom companies or social media platforms) without a warrant, raises significant privacy concerns. This concept highlights the challenges in balancing government access with individual privacy rights in the digital age. In such a setting, our ability to control who has access to our personal information is severely compromised. The proliferation of surveillance cameras, facial recognition technology and other AI-powered monitoring tools has further expanded the reach of the surveillance ecosystem. In many cities around the world, cameras equipped with facial recognition software are used to track individuals in real time, often without their consent. This level of surveillance raises significant ethical questions about the balance between public safety and individual privacy. While proponents argue that these technologies can help prevent crime and enhance security, critics warn that they can also be used to stifle dissent and target marginalized communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many AI systems operate as black boxes, making decisions without offering any explanation for how those decisions were reached. This lack of transparency is the antithesis of democratic accountability. AIs impact extends beyond surveillance; it can also directly shape our decisions. Online behavioral advertising, for instance, uses AI to target advertisements based on our online activities. These ads are not just trying to sell us products they are influencing our choices, often in ways that are difficult for us to detect. By using data about our preferences, habits and even emotional states, AI can create highly personalized ads that subtly nudge us toward particular decisions. We are entering a new era in recommender systems technology. Previously, it was about optimizing for matching relevant ad assets to users out of a finite pool. Now, we are moving into a chapter of hyper-personalization where new ad assets will be generated in real time, uniquely tailored to each specific individual. These assets will be crafted by foundation models based on a persons values, goals, fears, hopes and dreams. This new paradigm goes beyond mere demographics, creating ads that are unique in how they look and feel for each user, and have a greater propensity to influence behavior. While targeted advertising can help us find relevant products and services, it also blurs the line between persuasion and manipulation. When AI knows more about our behaviors and desires than we do, it becomes easy for companies to exploit our vulnerabilities. This manipulation erodes our ability to make autonomous decisions and undermines the democratic value of free will. As these types of manipulations become more complex and harder to identify, the potential for undue influence increases, challenging our capacity to make decisions freely. Greg Mably for the Deseret News Moreover, AIs ability to influence decisions extends to political contexts. Political campaigns are increasingly using AI to micro-target voters with tailored messages designed to appeal to their specific fears, desires or biases. This kind of targeted political advertising can deepen societal divisions and create echo chambers where individuals are only exposed to information that reinforces their existing beliefs. The result is a fragmented society where meaningful dialogue becomes difficult, and the ability to reach consensus is weakened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This has the potential to threaten the foundations of democracy itself. Elections, the bedrock of democratic governance, are increasingly vulnerable to manipulation through AI-driven technologies. Psychographic profiling, as used by Cambridge Analytica, shows how AI can be utilized to influence voter behavior. This example demonstrates the power of AI to target individuals based on their data, shaping political messaging in a way that can significantly impact electoral outcomes. By analyzing data from social media and other sources, AI can craft targeted messages designed to sway voters, often by exploiting their fears and biases. In addition to direct electoral manipulation, AI has contributed to the proliferation of fake news and misinformation. When users see content that aligns with their beliefs, theyre more likely to trust and share it regardless of its accuracy. This plays into personal biases and reinforces existing belief systems, making people less likely to question the validity of what theyre reading. By creating echo chambers and promoting sensational content, AI algorithms can distort the information landscape, making it difficult for citizens to make informed decisions. The opacity of AI also poses a significant problem. Many AI systems operate as black boxes, making decisions without offering any explanation for how those decisions were reached. This lack of transparency is the antithesis of democratic accountability. When decisions that affect our lives are made by algorithms that we cannot scrutinize or understand, it becomes impossible to hold those in power accountable. A recent study by Pew Research Center found that over half of U.S. adults now rely on social media for at least some of their news consumption. The role of social media platforms in spreading misinformation is also a major concern. AI algorithms prioritize content that generates engagement, which often means promoting sensational or divisive material. This has led to the rapid spread of misinformation, conspiracy theories and polarizing content, all of which contribute to a decline in public trust in democratic institutions. To address these issues, there is a need for greater transparency and for stronger measures to curb the spread of harmful content. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When decisions that affect our lives are made by algorithms that we cannot scrutinize or understand, it becomes impossible to hold those in power accountable. The challenges posed by AI are not insurmountable, but they do require thoughtful regulation. Europes approach to privacy and AI regulation has been able to harmonize laws regionally rather than at the country level, which has streamlined implementation of the law across its member states. In 2018, the General Data Protection Regulation came into effect, applying a unified privacy standard across all countries in the European Economic Area. Similarly, the EU Artificial Intelligence Act, which went into force in August 2024, establishes consistent AI regulations across Europe, fostering a balanced approach to innovation and ethical standards. In contrast, the United States lacks a federal AI law, instead relying on state-level legislation that addresses specific AI harms like deepfakes in elections, transparency of data used to train AI systems and disclosures of health care communications made with generative AI. This case-specific patchwork approach has created a complex matrix of AI laws that tech companies need to navigate. For example, in California alone, around 47 AI-related bills were introduced in 2024, with the governor signing some 17 into law. In the United States, there have been recent attempts to introduce comprehensive data privacy legislation at the federal level. The American Data Privacy Protection Act was a proposed piece of legislation introduced in 2022, aiming to provide a federal baseline for privacy protections across the United States, focusing on data minimization, transparency and user control. Despite initial bipartisan support, the bill faced challenges in gaining full legislative approval, and the lack of a unified federal framework continues to leave gaps in data protection. These regulations highlight a growing recognition of the need to protect individuals privacy rights in an increasingly data-driven world. States like California have taken the lead in enacting stronger privacy laws. The California Consumer Privacy Act and its successor, the California Privacy Rights Act , provide some of the most robust privacy protections in the country. These laws give consumers the right to know what personal data is being collected, the ability to opt out of the sale of their data and the right to request the deletion of their data. The establishment of the California Privacy Protection Agency also provides an independent body to enforce these regulations and ensure compliance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moving forward, the U.S. could benefit from adopting similar regulations at the federal level to create a consistent and comprehensive approach to data privacy. AI-specific regulation that addresses the unique challenges posed by this technology is crucial. This includes requirements for transparency in AI decision-making processes, such as mandating explainability in algorithmic decisions that significantly impact individuals. Ensuring that high risk AI systems are subject to regular audits and assessments can also help mitigate risks related to bias and discrimination. International cooperation is also essential in addressing the global challenges posed by AI. Given the borderless nature of the internet and the global reach of tech companies, no single country can effectively regulate AI on its own. Collaborative efforts, including international agreements on data privacy and ethical AI standards, are crucial to create a cohesive framework that ensures individual rights are protected while also encouraging technological innovation. Additionally, there is a need for greater public awareness and education about AI. Most people are unaware of how their data is being collected and used, or of the ways in which AI influences their decisions. Public education campaigns can help individuals understand the risks and take steps to protect their privacy. Furthermore, fostering a culture of ethical AI development within the tech industry is crucial. Companies should be encouraged to adopt best practices for transparency, fairness and accountability, and to prioritize the well-being of users over profits. When AI knows more about our behaviors and desires than we do, it becomes easy to exploit our vulnerabilities. The challenge before us is to harness AIs potential while putting in place safeguards to protect our privacy, autonomy and democratic institutions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To do this, we need a collective effort. Governments must establish regulations that hold tech companies accountable. Tech companies must adopt ethical practices and prioritize the rights of users over short-term profits. And we, as individuals, must be vigilant in understanding how our data is being used and advocate for our rights to privacy and autonomy. The tech industry also has a responsibility to develop AI in a way that aligns with democratic values. This means designing AI systems that are transparent, accountable and fair. Companies should invest in research to reduce algorithmic bias, increase explainability and ensure that AI systems are inclusive and equitable. Moreover, independent oversight bodies should be established to monitor the impact of AI technologies and ensure that they are used responsibly. The future of AI is still being written. By addressing the risks it poses to privacy and democracy today, we can ensure that it becomes a tool for progress rather than a mechanism for control. We must strive to create an environment where technological innovation goes hand in hand with the protection of human rights and democratic values. Only by doing so can we build a future where AI serves humanity, rather than subjugates it. This article is adapted from Artificial Intelligence: Risks to Privacy and Democracy published in the Yale Journal of Law & Technology. Lyric Kaplan is AI product and privacy counsel and a board member at AI League for Good. The opinions expressed in this article do not express the views or opinions of her employer. This story appears in the January/February 2025 issue of Deseret Magazine. Learn more about how to subscribe. President-elect Donald Trump has reportedly been reassured by a top Republican that his controversial pick for Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, has enough backing from the GOP to be confirmed by the Senate. Senate Majority Leader John Thune told Trump that the former Fox News host has the required number of votes to survive the confirmation process, CBS News reported, citing three sources. However, speaking to CBSs "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" Thune, said that the process would be fair but reiterated that the nominees would all have to make their case in front of the committee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think these are nominees who are new enough, theyve been going around and conducting their meetings, which I think, frankly, have gone very well, but they still have to make their case in front of the committee. And, you know, we dont know all the information about some of these nominees. Pete Hegseths nomination for Defense Secretary raised eyebrows in Washington, though he has held on thus far ahead of his being sworn in as head of the Pentagon on January 15. Now, a senator has said he has enough votes to be confirmed (AP) The 44-year-olds nomination for the role raised eyebrows in Washington, though he has held on despite the criticism ahead of his grilling from lawmakers, scheduled to take place on January 14. When asked to confirm the reports, a spokesperson from Hegseth told CBS News: Two things we dont discuss publicly: Whip counts and private conversations with the president. Scrutiny over the appointment of Hegseth comes amid allegations of sexual misconduct against the former marine by an anonymous woman, who has accused him of sexual assault in a California hotel room back in 2017. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hegseth and his lawyers have claimed the encounter was consensual and prosecutors declined to file charges against the Fox News star following an investigation. After the accuser threatened to sue Hegseth in 2020, they entered a non-disclosure agreement and Hegseth paid the individual. It was announced recently that he had agreed to release his accuser from the NDA. Senate Majority leader John Thune reportedly reassured the President-elect that Hegseth would survive the confirmation process (AP) Senate Republicans have warned that Hegseth is likely to face a frenzy of uncomfortable questions about the sexual misconduct allegations as well as claims against him of excessive drinking and financial mismanagement. A report in The New Yorker also claimed Hegseth had once drunkenly shouted kill all Muslims! while on a night out during his tenure as president of a veterans group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hegseth has vowed not to drink alcohol if he is confirmed to lead the Department of Defense. An advisor to Hegseth also said previously that he is willing to discuss any and all allegations against him in meetings with senators. Mr. Hegseth has assured the Senators with whom he is meeting that they will be able to fulfill their advise and consent duties when it comes to this and all topics, said the advisor. Video: News 3 previous coverage of other major financial crimes in the area. MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WRBL) A Phenix City man was sentenced to over seven years in connection to a COVID-19 loan scheme, according to the United States Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Alabama. The U.S. Attorneys Office says Kyle Nathan Carlisle, 39, pled guilty to wire fraud and money laundering chargers. This was in relation to loans received through the Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CARES Act is a federal law enacted in March 2020 to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act established the EIDL program, which was directly administered by the Small Business Administration. This financial assistance program was designed to help eligible small businesses by giving them working capital to make regular payments for operating expenses such as payroll, rent or mortgage expenses, utilities, or business debt. U.S. Attorneys Office According to the plea agreement and court records, Carlisle applied for 23 EIDLE loans online between July 2020 and April 2021. Many of those were duplicates, and five of the loans were funded. The U.S. Attorneys Office says Carlisle made multiple false statements and misrepresentations in those applications, including the revenue and number of employees of the business, as well as having no felony convictions in the last five years. Carlisle admitted to submitting forged documents with the applications, including fake or altered business licenses. The scheme resulted in Carlisle receiving $600,000 for four separate applications. Part of that funding was recovered before it cleared in Carlisles accounts, but the total amount sought in this scheme was $3,470,832. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carlisle was also convicted of money laundering due to using the illegal proceeds to purchase a vehicle and other personal expenses. Following Carlisles prison sentence, he will be on supervised release for three years. The judge also ordered he pay the Small Business Administration $547,846.54 back in restitution, as well as forfeit the same amount to the US government. Records show Carlisle had two felony convictions in Russell County back in 2016. Following his prison sentence, Carlisle will be on supervised release for three years. This case was investigated by the FBI Mobile Field Office with help from the Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General and the Alabama Department of Labor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Phoenix police say a man and woman were killed in what appeared to be a murder-suicide on Sunday evening that also left a toddler hospitalized in critical condition. Sgt. Phil Krynsky, a department spokesperson, said officers responded to an apartment complex near 99th Avenue and Indian School Road at around 8:30 p.m. after callers reported an argument inside of an apartment before hearing gunshots. Officers entered the apartment where they found 38-year-old Andrew Corona and his wife, 35-year-old Ashlee Corona, dead, along with their child, who had suffered a gunshot wound. The child was taken to a hospital and is in stable but critical condition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Krynsky said preliminary information suggests Andrew shot Ashlee before shooting himself, but detectives were still piecing together what led up to the shooting. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Phoenix couple killed in murder-suicide, toddler injured PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A man was arrested after police say he crashed his truck into a Dallas, Ore. convenience store late Saturday night, then drove around in the store, causing hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage, and investigators are determining if this was a bias crime. Driver dead after crashing into pole in Cathedral Park neighborhood Surveillance footage shows the truck crashing into a Center Market convenience store at a high speed, with a man getting out to steal beer and cigarettes around 9:30 p.m. A man crashed into and drove through a convenience store in Dallas, Ore., causing thousands of dollars in damage on Jan. 4, 2025. (Courtesy: Amrit Singh) A man crashed into and drove through a convenience store in Dallas, Ore., causing thousands of dollars in damage on Jan. 4, 2025. (Courtesy: Amrit Singh) A man crashed into and drove through a convenience store in Dallas, Ore., causing thousands of dollars in damage on Jan. 4, 2025. (Courtesy: Amrit Singh) A man crashed into and drove through a convenience store in Dallas, Ore., causing thousands of dollars in damage on Jan. 4, 2025. (Courtesy: Amrit Singh) A man crashed into and drove through a convenience store in Dallas, Ore., causing thousands of dollars in damage on Jan. 4, 2025. (Courtesy: Amrit Singh) A man crashed into and drove through a convenience store in Dallas, Ore., causing thousands of dollars in damage on Jan. 4, 2025. (Courtesy: Amrit Singh) A man crashed into and drove through a convenience store in Dallas, Ore., causing thousands of dollars in damage on Jan. 4, 2025. (Courtesy: Amrit Singh) A man crashed into and drove through a convenience store in Dallas, Ore., causing thousands of dollars in damage on Jan. 4, 2025. (Courtesy: Amrit Singh) The footage then captures the man attempting to drive his truck in the store, running over and damaging various shelves of items over the course of five minutes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When police arrive and identify themselves, the man gets out of the truck, shouts at officers, then gets back into the truck, attempting to escape. Freight train derails after bridge collapses into Corvallis river However, he soon got out of the truck yelling, Im sorry multiple times, then surrenders to police. I would just like to ask him what his thought process was through this whole incident, said Amrit Singh, the stores operations manager. What was going through his mind when he essentially came into the store going 35, 40 miles an hour? Singh added an employee was working that night, but was unharmed. Store owner Jagmohan Singh (left) and operations manager Amrit Singh. (KOIN) Our first instinct was, Hey, is everybody okay? Because people arent replaceable. All this stuff is, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Singh noted the incident caused over $200,000 in damages. The equipment in here is not cheap by any means, he said. Just the store front that he drove through was probably about 45 to $50,000 of glass and aluminum right there. The police report identifies the suspect as 34-year-old John Louis Marlas who was booked into the Polk County Jail on 18 separate charges, including reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, robbery, theft, menacing, DUII and unlawful use of a weapon. Dallas police told KOIN 6 News they are investigating this as a bias crime, but have not yet made a determination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now that the dust has settled, its time for the owners to start again. Theres no doubt in our mind that we wont rebuild, Singh said. Its going to take us a little bit to get the store up and going again, get it cleaned up. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. HILLIARD, Ohio (WCMH) A pizza chain thats been a central Ohio staple for 75 years closes one of its eateries in Hilliard. Masseys Pizza has shut its restaurant at 5068 Cemetery Rd. The Hilliard location is listed as closed on the companys website and a voicemail from the Masseys Hilliard number states the location is closed, offering customers an option to order from another location. $450,000 settlement for Ohio teacher who refused to use students pronouns Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A statement from Masseys said, While we are sorry to leave the Hilliard area, we decided to close this underperforming store to tighten up the bottom line heading into the new year. This location has never met our expectations and unfortunately was on the chopping block. We thoroughly enjoyed being part of the Hilliard community. The pizzeria has several locations all across central Ohio and even an eatery in South Carolina. The concept started in 1949, opening its first pizza shop on East Main Street in Whitehall, according to the company website. Since then, Masseys a variety of menu items from specialty made pizza, Stromboli, subs and more, along with a food buffet at select locations. The closure of Masseys Hilliard eatery joins several other local restaurants that closed in 2024, including the recent shuttering of Hoagie City in Hilliard, along with other pizza shops including Anthonys Pizzeria and Tommys Pizza. Anthonys in Bexley was known for New York-style pizza shut down in April 2024 and was located across from Capital University. Tommys Pizza at 174 W. Lane Ave. near Ohio States campus closed in June. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The untold story of a nurses final shift after 47 years of service I was on the phone with my sister when I thought I heard a knock at the door. Then another. My dogs barked, and I told her, Dont hang up. My chest tightened. Nightmares of someone coming for me flashed through my minda stranger lurking in the dark. After more than 40 years as a nurse, transitioning from the chaos of the ER to the intensity of the ICU, I thought I was ready for something different, something less physically demanding as I neared retirement. I took a job in behavioral health, a field I thought would be calmer. Instead, it was its own kind of battlefieldthe intensive care unit of the mind. My patients were the very sick: psychotics, schizophrenics, and prisoners. Murderers and rapists. People living entirely in their own distorted universes. Some days went smoothly, but most were unpredictable. Many were terrifying. Every day, before I clocked in, I prayed. I prayed for safetyfor myself, for my colleagues, for everyone on the unit. The night that changed everything started like any other. Jerome, one of my patients, was a prisoner. Like many others, he knew how to game the system. Wrap a pillowcase around your neck, claim youre suicidal, and youd be admitted to our unit. They called it the Hilton Hotel. A private room with a shower, three hot meals a day, snacks, therapy sessions, and medications. A two-week vacation away from the filth and deprivation of their prison cells. That night, Jerome began acting out. Six feet tall and muscular, he erupted in a fit of rage, tossing chairs and tables across the day area. We called security. Stat, we told them. But security was stationed on the first floor, while our unit was on the seventh. Help was minutes away when we needed them in seconds. I ran to prepare an injection. Two security officers finally arrived and flanked Jerome, one on each side. He lifted the sleeve of his gown and said, OK, Im ready. I moved forward, syringe in hand, aiming for his arm. Then I saw his fist. It was coming straight for my face. Oh no, I managed to think, before the impact sent me sprawling to the floor. My glasses flew across the hallway, skidding out of his room. Code gray! Code gray! The announcement echoed over the loudspeakers as staff rushed in. They picked me up off the floor, my thoughts spinning. Disheveled and dazed, I was wheeled down to the ER. My left jaw was swollen and bruised, but the CT scan showed no fractures. The ER doctor discharged me with a simple, Youre fine. I wasnt fine. The next morning, I called out sick and took two days off, but I had to use my own PTO. I didnt feel any safer when I returned. Random violence had become a fact of life on the unit. We begged our manager to assign security to our floor 24/7. Its not in the budget, we were told. I wrote to the hospitals CEO, pleading for help. I described the chaos, the danger, the risk to patients and staff alike. There was no reply. Instead, I was reprimanded by my manager. The CEO isnt in our chain of command, she scolded. I began waking up at 3:00 a.m., night after night, jolted awake by the image of Jeromes fist coming toward me. I started therapy through the employee assistance program. The counselor was kind and helpful, but the trauma lingered. I couldnt stop thinking about how close I had come to something far worse. If I stayed, I was convinced it was only a matter of time before someone snapped my neck. And then, it would be game over. So I retired. After 47 years as a nurse, I walked away. That night, the knock I thought I heard on my door wasnt real. It was just the wind, rattling my Christmas wreath. But the fear is still with me. And that hospital unit? Its still dangerous. Still without dedicated security. Because, as they say, Its not in the budget. Debbie Moore-Black is a nurse who blogs at Do Not Resuscitate. TEMPLE CITY, Calif. (KTLA) Two people were fortunate to escape without serious injuries when a small plane crashed into the backyard of a home in Southern Californias San Gabriel Valley Monday morning. The crash occurred just before 8 a.m. in the 4900 block of Arden Drive in Temple City, roughly a mile west of the El Monte Airport, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Sky5 footage showed the single-engine aircraft clipped trees and bushes when it crashed on top of a brick wall and possibly made contact with the home in the densely populated neighborhood. Sky5 view of a single-engine plane that crashed in Temple City, Calif., on Jan. 6, 2024. (KTLA) Damage to the home did not appear to be significant, and Sky5 reporter Rich Prickett said both occupants of the plane walked away from the crash and were evaluated by paramedics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thankfully, there were no injuries to the occupants of the plane or any civilians on the ground. We will work closely with our Aviation partners to investigate the cause, said Temple Station Captain Jorge Meza of the L.A. County Sheriffs Office. Last Friday, a father and his teenage daughter died when their single-engine RV-10 aircraft plunged into the roof of a warehouse in Fullerton. Sky5s Rich Prickett in Temple City contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Crowds are showing up to pay respects to former President Jimmy Carter as he lies in repose at the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta. Officials at the center want the public to know that bags, purses, umbrellas, and backpacks are not allowed at the Carter Center. They urge you to leave your bags at home or in your car before taking MARTA to the Carter Center. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Prohibited items will be surrendered at the Carter Center and not returned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An exception will be made for diaper bags, which will be searched by hand. According to a MARTA spokesperson, Aerosols, ammunition, animals other than service animals, bicycles, balloons, coolers, drones and other unmanned aircraft systems, explosives, firearms, glass, thermal or metal containers, laser pointers, mace, packages, selfie sticks, toy guns, weapons of any kind, or any other items determined to be potential safety hazards are not allowed. Unless you plan to walk or bike to the Carter Center, the only way to get there is to take a bus shuttle from the King Memorial MARTA station to the Carter Center. However, there is no public parking at King Memorial Station or the Carter Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Youll need to park at another MARTA station and take the train to the King Memorial Station, where you can board the shuttle. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] PMCs vice chairman and veteran Marine Gerry Byrne was honored Friday with the U.S. Navys top civilian accolade, the Distinguished Public Service Award. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro honored Byrne at PMCs New York City offices just blocks away from where Del Toro was raised in Hells Kitchen. Byrne served as a Marine officer in Vietnam in 1968-69, and was awarded the Navy Achievement Medal with Combat V. More from WWD Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Navy Distinguished Public Service Award, which was established in 1951, is the highest tribute that the secretary of the Navy can bestow upon a civilian not employed by the Department of the Navy. Byrne was recognized for his commitment to supporting military and veteran communities through multiple initiatives and board memberships such as the United Services Organizations and the Intrepid Museum, the Bob Woodruff Foundation, the Fisher House Foundation and City Meals on Wheels. Byrne, who is a Fordham University Military Hall of Fame inductee and established the Marine Corps Birthday Ball with the actor and former Marine Harvey Keitel, emphasized the importance of integrity and leadership. Byrne also spoke of his Bronx upbringing, and his time at Fordham Prep and Fordham University, having been subject to eight years of Jesuits hammering into me what is a very important core value integrity. He said that going from the Jesuits to the U.S. Marine Corps in the late 1960s just added a layer to this value system that stayed with me. Byrne noted how during a dinner with Jay Penske (current chief executive officer of Penske Media Corp.), 20 years ago about his vision to create this media company, our conversation was all about integrity and leadership, Byrne said. Thats why I have to give special kudos to Jay, because this company that we have now, which has about 24 different brands including Dick Clark Productions, the Golden Globes, and South by Southwestthe value system here is all about integrity and ethics. Those are unique words and assets to find in the environment that we live in. Byrne also acknowledged his wife Liz and actress daughter Megan, who attended Fridays ceremony, for their support. Megan is part of the Harry Potter and the Cursed Child production on Broadway. He also spoke of his son Gavin and daughter-in-law Chrystianne [DeAlmeida], a clinical psychologist, who are now living in Tokyo where she has helped to create a mental health infrastructure at the Yakota Air Base, that was initially prompted by the need to help family members and U.S. Air Force troops there after eight airmen died in an Osprey crash off the coast of Japan in 2023. Byrne also spoke of his sharp-as-a-tack 93-year-old brother, who is on 100 percent veterans disability at the St. Albans Naval Hospital in Queens and praised these people, who really are dedicated to making a difference. He also spoke of the need to support and recognize the veteran population of an estimated 18 million and the community that supports it. Gerry Byrne and U.S. Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro. Byrne recalled two quotes that have stayed with him through the years. He described how a Marine Corps sergeant once said to him in Vietnam, while offering to light his Marlboro cigarette with a Zippo lighter, Have you ever seen this before? It was inscribed with, For those who have fought for it, freedom has a taste the protected will never know. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another quote that stayed with him occurred during Byrnes years working for the renowned screenwriter and television and film producer Norman Lear. When I was there, we did Stand by Me, The Princess Bride and Fried Green Tomatoes, said Byrne, adding that he and Lear had a special affinity due to Lear having flown 52 combat missions as a door gunner on a B-17 in Europe. Theres a certain energy that happens between veterans, particularly combat veterans. They dont talk about specifics. They just recognize something exists that is unique. Gerry Byrne and U.S. Navy Secretary Del Toro. After asking Lear once over lunch, How do you do what you do? because he had created People for the American Way, was on the board of 30 not-for-profits and held leadership positions all over the place, Byrne said, He looked at me and said, Gerry, life is not a rehearsal. PMCs vice chairman said he kind of lives by those words today, and suggested that others consider them. Noting that moment that was being shared with Del Toro and all the attendees at Fridays ceremony would not happen again, Byrne said, So just think about the opportunities that each and every one of you have to make a difference in the simplest of ways. Best of WWD Sign up for WWD's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. UPDATE: Suspect arrested in deadly Lincoln Park shooting SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) A 19-year-old is dead after police found him in a Lincoln Park street with a gunshot wound Sunday morning. San Diego Police responded to reports of a shooting in the area of 300 Willie James Jones Avenue in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of San Diego at 9:36 a.m. Sunday. One dead in multi-vehicle crash on I-15 Police report officers found a 19-year-old man in the street with at least one gunshot wound to his torso area. He died later at the hospital despite life-saving measures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police are currently searching for two suspects, both described as Hispanic juveniles, about 57 tall, weighing around 140 pounds, but did not provide a clothing description for either suspect. HAZMAT cleaning pool chemical spill on El Cajon road Police are now interviewing witnesses, gathering evidence and working to get surveillance footage. Detectives are also currently working to determine if the shooting was gang related. Anyone with more information is asked to call the Homicide Unit at 619-531-2293 or Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Police have identified the Bedford, New Hampshire officer who was shot during a struggle on early Saturday. According to Bedford police, the officer has been identified as 24-year-old Officer David Benway-Fongemie. Officers received a call around 12:53 a.m. on Saturday about a suspicious person at Country Inn & Suites at 250 South River Road. Upon arrival, two officers, including a K-9 officer, began an investigation. The suspect, later identified as Jared Masseur, 40 of Nashua began to flee the area on foot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers attempted to take Masseur into custody, but he resisted and began to fight officers. During a struggle with the two officers, a gun discharged as Masseur reached for Fongemies holster and attempted to take his service firearm. Fongemies gun was fired during the struggle and shot him in the leg. Fongemie was transported to a local hospital where he was later released and continues to recover at home. Fongemie was hired on September 9, 2024. Masseur is being charged with resisting arrest or detention, felon in possession of a dangerous weapon, attempting to take a firearm from a law enforcement officer, and second-degree assault. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Masseur is being held in custody without bail and is scheduled to be arraigned on Monday at Merrimack District Court. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Jan. 5Multiple police cruisers are on the scene of an investigation into a report of a dead body in Dayton this afternoon. Eight Dayton police cruisers responded to Bates Street just north of East Third Street for the report around 12:47 p.m., a Montgomery County dispatch supervisor told this news outlet. The location is two blocks east of Third and Keowee, just east of downtown. It's unclear precisely how many police personnel responded to the scene or what they found there, the supervisor said. We'll update this developing story as more information becomes available. Jan. 5Six people were arrested while Goshen police were conducting a search near the 700 block of Fair Oaks Drive at 9:48 p.m. Friday. According to police, the six were arrested on various charges of dealing methamphetamine, maintaining a common nuisance and possession of marijuana. The arrested include a 37-year-old Goshen man, a 34-year-old Goshen woman, a 50-year-old man experiencing homelessness, a 42-year-old Goshen woman, a 71-year-old Goshen man and a 44-year-old Syracuse man. Three of those arrested were taken to the Elkhart County Jail. EPD arrests battery suspect after SWAT deployment Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Saturday, Elkhart Police Department officers arrested a battery suspect with an outstanding felony warrant after he reportedly refused to leave a residence in the 300 block of North Second Street and after Elkhart County Regional SWAT team deployment. Arrested was Games Birkhead, 48, of Elkhart. At about 1:46 a.m., an Elkhart Police Department officer responded to 220 W. Jackson St. to check on a woman who was knocking on doors and screaming for help. Upon arrival, the officer made contact with the female victim as well as a male victim. The two victims reported that a known man attacked them at a residence in the 300 block of North Second Street, Elkhart. Officers said they obtained a judicially approved arrest warrant for the suspect, identified as Birkhead, and learned that Birkhead had an outstanding and unrelated felony warrant as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Elkhart police, the Elkhart County Regional SWAT team was activated, since Birkhead refused to leave the residence. At approximately 8:09 a.m., the Elkhart County Regional SWAT team assisted in executing the arrest warrant. After breaching the North Second Street home, Birkhead was arrested inside without further incident, according to the police report. After medical clearance, Birkhead was transported to the Elkhart County Jail. No injuries were reported during the incident. Another search warrant was obtained for the home and officers seized items that were included in the search warrant, the report reads. Birkhead, along with the warrant, faces unspecified preliminary charges associated with this incident. This case will be forwarded to the Elkhart County Prosecutor's Office for review of formal criminal charges. One driver injured in crash Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Cromwell woman was injured in a two-vehicle crash at C.R.s 14 and 19 at 6:09 p.m. Friday. According to a report from the Elkhart County Sheriff's Office, a 2015 Ford Escape driven by Susan Phillips, 69, Cromwell, was eastbound on C.R. 14 and failed to yield the right of way while turning north onto C.R. 19. Her vehicle and a 2001 Jeep Gladiator collided. The Jeep, driven by Nathan Rojics, 24, Osceola, was westbound on C.R. 14 and after the collision it left the road and went into a ditch. Rojics was uninjured. Phillips had chest pain and was taken to Elkhart General Hospital for treatment. ARRESTS Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * A 71-year-old Goshen man was arrested by Goshen police at 10:38 a.m. Saturday on a charge of operating a vehicle while intoxicated after being stopped at Eisenhower Drive North and Caragana Court. The man was taken to the Elkhart County Jail. * A 33-year-old Warsaw woman was arrested by Goshen police at 4:30 pm. Saturday on charges of possession of marijuana and operating a vehicle while intoxicated following a traffic stop in the 1000 block of South Main Street. She was taken to the Elkhart County Jail. DEATH INVESTIGATION Goshen police are investigating the death of a 53-year-old Goshen woman in the 200 block of South Ninth Street. Officers were called to the home for a welfare check and found the deceased woman. Her family has been notified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ARSON Two boys set a T-shirt on fire at Walmart, 4024 Elkhart Road, Goshen, at 8:18 p.m. Saturday and Goshen police were notified, according to a report from Goshen officers. BULLET HOLE FOUND A bullet hole was found in the bedroom of a 65-year-old Goshen man in the 1500 block of Cedarbrook Court in Goshen, at 6:08 p.m. Friday, according to a Goshen police report. THEFTS * A 20-year-old man's mother reported to Goshen police at 1:05 p.m. Friday her son's firearm was stolen in the 900 block of Colonial Manor Drive, Goshen. * A 42-year-old South Bend woman reported to Goshen police at 1:58 p.m. Friday that someone she knows took her vehicle and refused to return it. The vehicle was later found and returned to the woman, police reported. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Police have released new information regarding a shooting in southwest Oklahoma City on Saturday, January 4. According to the Oklahoma City Police Department, officers responded to a shooting in the 9300 block of SW 45th Ct. around 9 a.m. Upon arrival, they found 41-year-old Shawn Lawrence dead at the scene. ORIGINAL STORY: Police investigating after deadly shooting in SW OKC Officials say it appears Lawrence got into an altercation when he was shot and killed. The alleged shooter and everyone else involved have been interviewed and released. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police say the case will be presented to the Canadian County D.A.s Office for review. Anyone with more information is asked to call the Homicide Tip Line at 405-297-1200. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Authorities are asking the public to assist in identifying a man in connection to a $6,000 jewelry investigation. Police seek to identify man in connection to theft investigation, Image courtesy Oklahoma City Police Department According to police, the individual ran out of JC Penney with two gold chains, valued at approximately $6,000 dollars. Wyandotte Special Education teacher resigns from teaching post If you have any information, your anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers could lead to a cash reward. Contact 405.235.7300 or okccrimetips.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Pope Francis has appointed the Italian nun, Sister Simona Brambilla, to head one of the Vatican's dicasteries, making her the first female prefect in the Catholic Church's history. The Vatican's press office reported on Monday that Brambilla has been selected to lead the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life. A dicastery is comparable to a ministry of government in other states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brambilla has served as the secretary, the second-highest rank, in the same dicastery since October 2023. She previously worked as a nurse and missionary in Mozambique and holds a doctorate in psychology. The Catholic Church has around 1.4 billion members worldwide and has been led by Pope Francis since March 2013. The Church has held repeated debates about greater participation of women, particularly about the ordination of women as deacons or, at a later stage, as priests. The most recent World Synod in October 2023, at which clerics and non-clerics debated the Church's future, did not produce any breakthrough on the issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his almost 12 years in office, Pope Francis has appointed two women to top positions. In 2016, he chose the Italian art historian Barbara Jatta to be the director of the Vatican Museums, which serve as one of the state's most important sources of income. In 2022, he then named Sister Raffaella Petrini as secretary general of the governorate of Vatican City State, a role usually held by a bishop. The possibility for Catholics who are not bishops, and therefore also women, to lead a Vatican dicastery has only existed since 2022. Pope Francis has appointed Cardinal Robert McElroy, a vocal defender of migrants and critic of Donald Trumps first administration, as the next archbishop of Washington, DC. Cardinal McElroy, 70, is a strong supporter of Francis priorities on refugees, the environment and welcoming LGBTQ Catholics. He will succeed Cardinal Wilton Gregory, 77, who was the first African-American Archbishop of Washington, DC. Francis also appointed on Monday the first female leader of a Vatican department. Sister Simona Brambilla will become prefect of the Holy Sees religious life office, which has responsibility for nuns, monks and friars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Early in Trumps first term, then-Bishop McElroy gave a speech in Modesto, California, specifically referencing Trump and urging Catholics to become disruptors of the anti-immigrant agenda. We must disrupt those who would seek to send troops into our streets to deport the undocumented, to rip mothers and fathers from their families. We must disrupt those who portray refugees as enemies rather than our brothers and sisters in terrible need, he said. And after Trumps first election victory in 2016, McElroy lamented a profound sickness in the soul in American political life and that it would be unthinkable for Catholics to stand by while more than ten percent of our flock is ripped from our midst and deported. The appointment of McElroy sends a signal about how Pope Francis and the Vatican plan to navigate a second Trump administration and follows Trumps decision to nominate a critic of Francis as his Vatican ambassador. The pope also is due to have a farewell meeting with President Joe Biden, a devout Catholic who had a warm rapport with Francis, on Friday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Massimo Faggioli, a church historian who teaches at Villanova University in Pennsylvania and follows the Francis papacy closely, told CNN the appointment is a bold move by the pope and that announcing it on the anniversary of the January 6 US Capitol attack and two weeks before Trumps inauguration is the statement in the [announcement] statement. McElroy, who holds a doctorate in political science from Stanford University along with a doctorate in theology from a Roman university, can be relied on by the pope to articulate Catholic teaching on matters such as migration and protection of the most vulnerable in society. More female leaders Brambilla, who is from Monza, northern Italy, qualified as a nurse before entering her religious community, has a doctorate in psychology and has worked as a missionary in Mozambique. She has until now been serving as the number two at the Vatican office that she will now lead. The pope also appointed a cardinal, Angel Fernandez Artime, as pro-prefect of the department, who will work with Brambilla. During his pontificate, Francis has sought to appoint more female leaders inside the churchs central administration, although there have been calls for him to go further with the role of women in the church becoming an urgent topic of discussion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Vatican, from 2013 to 2023 the percentage of women working for the Holy See and Vatican City State rose from 19.2% to 23.4%. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Faith is an integral part of millions of Americans daily lives. One Nation Under God is committed to reflecting Americas voices, values and communities covering stories of faith and religion, from the latest headlines to stories of hope. Subscribe here. (NewsNation) Pope Francis has appointed Cardinal Robert McElroy of San Diego as the archbishop of Washington. McElroy, 70, succeeds Cardinal Wilton Gregory, 77, and will be the spiritual leader of more than 600,000 Catholics in southern Maryland and the nations capital. The San Francisco native is a graduate of Harvard University and has a Masters Degree from Stanford University in history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The appointment comes as the start of Donald Trumps second administration. McElroy, who has expressed criticism of Trumps policies on immigration, said he prayed the new administration would make America a better place. But he also said Trumps threat of mass deportation of illegal immigrants could be a potential point of conflict. Hanukkah Lights: Q&A with an expert in Israels history The Catholic Church teaches that a country has the right to control the borders, and our nations desire to do that is a legitimate effort, he said. At the same time, we are called always to have the sense of the dignity of every human person, and thus plans which have been talked about on some level of having a wider indiscriminate, massive deportation across the country would be something that would be incompatible with Catholic doctrine. Cardinal Robert Walter McElroy, speaks during a press conference at the Vatican, Saturday, Aug. 27, 2022. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini, File) Cardinal Robert McElroy controversy McElroy has caused controversy over some of his positions including his support for ordaining women deacons. Pope Francis has rejected that idea, most recently in a TV interview with CBS in May of 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another is his position that Catholics who publicly support abortion should be allowed to receive Holy Communion. He has said he agrees with Pope Franciss exhortation to see the Eucharist not as a prize for the perfect, but as a source of healing for us all. What will become of Christians in the new Syria? McElroy is also a vocal supporter of the LGBTQ community and promotes their radical inclusion in the Catholic Church. In 2023, he said, The effect of the tradition that all sexual acts outside of marriage constitute objectively grave sin has been to focus the Christian moral life disproportionately upon sexual activity. Pope Francis made the appointment ahead of his final meeting with President Joe Biden, who is making a last foreign trip to Italy this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. Pope Francis made remarks about nuns with a "vinegar face" and called out gossip during a Jan. 4 event "Continue to carry it forward with your openness and courage, ready to renew yourselves where necessary, with holiness of life, preparation and friendliness, " the pontiff told a group of nuns from the Union of St. Catherine of Siena of the Missionaries of the School Francis has a history of making headlines for sometimes blunt, or even harsh, speech Pope Francis has a message for nuns: convey joy while refraining from gossip. On Saturday, Jan. 4, the pontiff addressed a gathering of nuns from the Union of St. Catherine of Siena of the Missionaries of the School, according to The Holy See and also reported by The Times in the U.K. and the Catholic News Agency. He referenced men and women who have been indifferent to the Catholic faith. Many times in my life I have encountered nuns with a vinegar face, and this is not friendly, this is not something that helps to attract people, Francis said in his remarks. Vinegar is ugly, and nuns with a vinegar face, lets not say! In short: holiness, preparation and friendliness. I ask this of you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Pope Francis, 87, Appears at Ceremony with Bruise on His Chin Though Vatican Says It's from a Minor Fall On the subject of holiness, the pontiff had a plea for the nuns concerning gossip, as well. And in order to contemplate to hand down to others, speaking well and friendliness are necessary, and there is a great enemy of this, which is gossip, he said. Please, distance yourself from gossip. Gossip kills, gossip poisons. Please, no gossip among you, none. And to ask this of a woman is heroic, but come on, lets go forward, and no gossip. In the same address, Francis urged the sisters to not speak with the devil, saying: The Lord has taught us that He conversed with everyone, apart from one person who does not converse with the Lord, never: the devil. And when the devil approaches to ask those questions, the Lord does not dialogue with him. He answers with the Word of God, with the Scripture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Please, converse with everyone, apart from the devil, he continued. The devil comes into communities, look, jealousy all these things that are of everyone, not just women, everyone, and the devil goes there. You do not converse with the devil. Do you understand? You do not converse with the devil. Related: Pope Francis Keeps Accidentally Tweeting About the New Orleans Saints and the Team Is Loving It Lastly, Francis called on the nuns to be messengers of friendliness and joy, and he thanked them especially for working with youth. Continue to carry it forward with your openness and courage, ready to renew yourselves where necessary, with holiness of life, preparation and friendliness. I bless you and pray for you. And you too, please do not forget to pray for me for, not against, he concluded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pontiff has headlines before for his blunt language and reports of even harsher words. Last June, according to the Italian news agency ANSA, Francis, 88, said a homophobic slur while speaking with Roman priests in a closed door meeting. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. ANSA, which used unnamed sources, reported that the pontiff allegedly uttered a word that translates from Italian as a derogatory term for gay people while indicating that gay men should be welcomed into the Catholic Church but not necessarily seminaries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The alleged incident followed an earlier accusation that Francis said a slur toward gay people in May during a private meeting. In response to the reports, Director of the Holy See Press Office Matteo Bruni told PEOPLE at the time: Pope Francis is aware of the articles that have recently been published about a conversation held behind closed doors, with members of the Italian Bishops Conference. As he has had the opportunity to say on several occasions: 'There is room for everyone, for everyone in the Church! No one is useless, no one is superfluous, there is room for everyone. Just in the way that we are, all of us.' " Related: Pope Francis Makes History with New Autobiography Hope, Originally Meant to Be Published After His Death "The Pope has never intended to offend or express himself in homophobic terms, and he apologises to those who have felt offended by the use of a term, reported by others, Bruni also said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An unnamed priest described Francis speaking style as rough spoken to The Times, adding, It can be embarrassing and it could be getting more pronounced with age. First time round I think it was the Vatican press office issuing the apology rather than him. Read the original article on People Pope Francis, 88, still has some tricks up his sleeve. The pontiff has appointed a sharp critic of Donald Trump to be the next archbishop of the nations capitaljust in time for the president-elects return to office. That cardinal, Robert McElroy, has been a vocal defender of migrants and was publicly critical of Trump during his first term. He famously urged parishioners in 2017 to be disruptors of Trumps anti-migrant agenda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We must disrupt those who would seek to send troops into our streets to deport the undocumented, to rip mothers and fathers from their families, he said. We must disrupt those who portray refugees as enemies rather than our brothers and sisters in terrible need. Robert McElroy poses for photographers in 2022. / REMO CASILLI / REUTERS McElroy, 70, will soon have the opportunity to deliver similar directives just steps from the Oval Office. McElroy, a native of San Francisco, spent the last decade in San Diego. Francis decision to choose a Trump critic is not coincidental, a church historian from Villanova University told CNN. The pope has opposed Trumps anti-immigrant rhetoric over the years, with the most recent instance coming in September when he remarked that he could not endorse Trump or Kamala Harris in good conscience. Both are against life, be it the one who kicks out migrants, or be it the one who kills babies, Francis said at a news conference. You must choose the lesser evil. Who is the lesser evil? That lady, or that gentleman? I dont know. Everyone, in conscience, [has to] think and do this. Donald Trump and Pope Francis met at the Vatican in 2017. / POOL / REUTERS Francis, an Argentine, made harsher comments against Trump in 2016. Thats when he told reporters the then-presidential candidate was not a real Christian. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A person who thinks only about building walls, wherever they may be, and not building bridges, is not Christian, he said. Trump has hit back at Pope Francis. He announced on Dec. 20 that his pick to be the U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican was Brian Burch, an outspoken critic of the pope. Francis had a much cozier relationship with Joe Biden, a devout Catholic who had a relationship with the pope even before he was elected president in 2020. The pope is set to have a farewell meeting with Biden on Friday before he bows out of the White House later this month. ROME (AP) Pope Francis on Monday named Cardinal Robert McElroy of San Diego as the archbishop of Washington, tapping one of his most progressively like-minded allies to head the Catholic Church in the U.S. capital at the start of Donald Trump's second administration. At a press conference, McElroy said he prayed the incoming administration would work to make America a better place. But he also identified Trump's threats of mass deportations of immigrants as a point of potential conflict, saying such policies were incompatible with Catholic doctrine. McElroy, 70, replaces the retiring Cardinal Wilton Gregory, who steps down after having navigated the archdiocese through the fallout of the 2018 eruption of the clergy sexual abuse crisis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Vatican announced McElroy's new job on Monday, the Catholic feast of the Epiphany, in a bulletin that flagged another important appointment in Francis' reform agenda. The pope named Italian Sister Simona Brambilla the first-ever woman to head a Vatican dicastery, in this case the one responsible for religious orders. Francis, who was elected pope on a mandate of reform, has long had his eye on McElroy, making him bishop of San Diego in 2015 and then elevating him as a cardinal in 2022. McElroy has been one of a minority of U.S. bishops to harshly criticize the campaign to exclude Catholic politicians who support abortion rights from Communion, a campaign Francis has publicly criticized by insisting that bishops must be pastors, not politicians. He has also questioned why the U.S. bishops conference, which has leaned conservative in its leadership, consistently insists on identifying abortion as its preeminent priority. McElroy has questioned why greater prominence is not given to issues such as racism, poverty, immigration and climate change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He has also expressed support for LGBTQ+ youth and denounced the bullying often directed at them, further aligning himself with Francis priorities as pope. McElroy is competent, kind, empathetic, and willing to fight on the side of the vulnerable, said Natalia Imperatori-Lee, chairperson of the religion and philosophy department at Manhattan University. She said his nomination was particularly timely given the polarization in the U.S. McElroy has experience leading a diocese marked by diversity and challenges, and I cant think of a bigger challenge than to be so close to the seat of the U.S. government in 2025, she said in an email. McElroy, a graduate of Harvard University with a master's in history from Stanford University, is a native of San Francisco and had ministered there until Francis moved him to San Diego. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vincent Miller, professor of theology at the University of Dayton, pointed to McElroy's writings on Christian nationalism and patriotism in which he argued for a morally sound and unitive" patriotism as opposed to an isolationist one as particularly relevant today. McElroy is uniquely prepared for this moment, Miller said in a social media post. At a moment when constitutional democracy is in crisis in the US, on the anniversary of an insurrection that sought to undermine it, Francis has moved one of his most capable and uniquely qualified bishops into position to respond to the needs of this moment. McElroys appointment to Washington comes just a few weeks after Trump, who takes office Jan. 20, nominated Brian Burch as U.S. ambassador to the Holy See. Burch, president and co-founder of the advocacy group CatholicVote, has criticized Francis and some of his policies, including his emphasis on synodality or making the church a more inclusive place. McElroy, who was a papal nominee to the Vatican's big synod process, made clear Monday that he was fully on board with Francis' vision of a church that doesn't discriminate. Speaking in Spanish to address Washington's sizeable Latino community, McElroy cited Francis' famous line todos, todos, todos, to emphasize that everyone is welcome in the church, no one excluded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He did, though, acknowledge likely points of disagreement with the incoming Trump administration. Climate change, he said, was one of the greatest challenges facing the world, while immigration would likely be a source of conflict if the administration fulfills its threat of mass deportations of migrants. The Catholic Church teaches that a country has the right to control the borders, and our nations desire to do that is a legitimate effort," he said. "At the same time, we are called always to have the sense of the dignity of every human person, and thus plans which have been talked about on some level of having a wider indiscriminate, massive deportation across the country would be something that would be incompatible with Catholic doctrine. The Archdiocese of Washington includes the District of Columbia and the Maryland counties of Montgomery, Prince Georges, St. Marys, Calvert and Charles. It has a total population of 3,050,847, of whom 671,187 are Catholic. Its outgoing archbishop, Gregory, took over in 2019 at a time of turmoil for one of the nation's most important archdioceses. Its two previous leaders, ex-Cardinal Theodore McCarrick and Cardinal Donald Wuerl, were caught up in a new wave of the long-running clerical sexual abuse scandal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wuerl stepped down after he lost the trust of his priests, and McCarrick was defrocked after a Vatican investigation found he abused adults as well as minors. Francis not only tapped Gregory to lead but then made him a prince of the church in 2020, making him the first Black American cardinal in the process. McElroy was indirectly tainted by the McCarrick scandal after revelations that a whistleblower had told him in 2016 that McCarrick slept with seminarians. McElroy acknowledged having received the report but said the whistleblower refused to provide him with corroborating evidence. Bishop Joseph Strickland, an arch-conservative whom Francis ousted as bishop of Tyler, Texas last year, cited the McCarrick connection in strongly criticizing Monday's appointment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The blatant corruption of Pope Francis and the US Cardinals is on full display with the appointment of a McCarrick clone to the same archdiocese where his evil reigned twenty years ago," Strickland tweeted. The Archdiocese of Washington is home to The Catholic University of America, which is run by the church and is viewed as more conservative than many other Catholic universities in the U.S. run by the Jesuits. The dean of CUAs school of theology and religious studies, Professor Joseph Capizzi, said he looked forward to working with McElroy. I hope he becomes engaged, Capizzi said. I hope we can influence him and he can influence us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ___ David Crary contributed from New York. ___ Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the APs collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content. ROME (AP) Pope Francis wrapped up a busy Christmas season on Monday by calling for the faithful to promote a culture of welcome and integration in their communities and reject discrimination. Francis presided over Mass in St. Peters Basilica to mark Epiphany. According to the Bible, the feast marks the day that three wise men guided by a star came to visit the newborn Jesus. Francis said the star, in guiding humanity to God, doesnt discriminate among ethnic, linguistic or national groups and is there for all. We do well to meditate on this today, in a world in which individuals and nations are equipped with ever more powerful means of communication, and yet seem to have become less willing to understand, accept and encounter others in their diversity! he said in his homily. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement God, he said, calls on Christians to reject anything that discriminates or excludes and discards people. He called instead for promoting a strong culture of welcome, in which the narrow places of fear and denunciation are replaced by open spaces of encounter, integration and sharing of life; safe spaces where everyone can find warmth and shelter. Francis has long preached the Gospel-mandated need to welcome the stranger, applying it to migrants in particular. The Epiphany Mass marked the end of a particularly busy Christmas season for Francis that also coincided with the start of the 2025 Holy Year. The once-ever-quarter-celebration of Christianity is expected to bring more than 30 million pilgrims to Rome over the next 12 months. The 88-year-old pope has a daunting schedule ahead greeting and ministering to them, alongside his other papal duties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And while he is wrapping up the Christmas season with Epiphany, he still has a busy week ahead. He'll deliver his annual foreign policy speech to the Holy Sees diplomatic corps, host a final meeting with President Joe Biden and preside over the baptism of babies in the Sistine Chapel. ___ Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the APs collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content. Students and staff at Apalachee High School are preparing to move into portable classrooms this week. The trailers will be located just outside the school. Students have been shuttling back and forth between two campuses since the deadly shooting there in September. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The school district closed off the hallway where the shooting occurred. On Thursday, the district is allowing parents and students to tour the new classrooms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The school board is considering various security upgrades and changes. The community is expected to hear about those updates on Tuesday at the next school board meeting. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Jan. 6A Portland attorney died after being hit by a car on Friday afternoon in the Old Port. Portland police confirmed Monday that Joe Lewis, 61, died after he was brought to the hospital. Lewis had been hit by an SUV that had just turned onto India Street. A spokesperson for the department said the driver, who they identified as a 69-year-old woman, is not facing any charges at this time. Lewis was an attorney for Port City Legal, a general practice firm on Moulton Street in Portland. In his biography on the firm's website, he described himself as a determined "fighter by nature" who loved Portland's culture, cuisine and friendly people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cumberland County District Attorney Jacqueline Sartoris said Lewis was her classmate at the University of Maine School of Law. They graduated together in 2010 as "non-traditional" students, older than their other classmates. She said he was "larger than life" and always happy to attend late-night study sessions and parties. While the two sometimes butted heads when they were younger, she said she came to appreciate their relationship and thought of Lewis as a trustworthy friend. They reconnected after school and she said he strongly supported her campaign for district attorney in 2022. Sartoris described Lewis as a doting husband and father who was always talked about how proud he was of his children. His wife, Maryellen Sullivan, also works as an attorney at Port City Legal. Law professor Nancy Wanderer said Lewis was a student in her legal research and writing class, made up of about 80 first-year students. She said while many students struggled with the class, Lewis often contributed to discussions and encouraged others to enroll. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wanderer recalled hearing Lewis' voice echoing in the law school's old circular building while he led new students on a tour. She said he was a personable, positive man who "added a lot of good energy to the world." She said they built a "great friendship" after and stayed connected on Facebook, where she read about him succeeding in his career. "I think the fighting he did for his clients would be similar to the things he would say when he walked by my door," Wanderer said. "When he believed in something or somebody, he didn't hesitate to say it." This story will be updated. Copy the Story Link Jan. 6The Rev. Norman Allen wasn't planning on offering up his church to serve as the city's warming shelter this year. First Parish Unitarian Universalist was the site of the only no-barrier emergency warming shelter in Portland last winter, but it was a challenge. The church didn't have enough bathrooms. It was difficult to find storage for mattresses. Scheduling open hours around other activities was complicated. Neighbors complained about trash being left near the church. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Allen was glad the church had been able to help but he hoped someone with a more suitable space might step forward this year. The warming shelter is required to open any time temperatures drop below 15 degrees or 10 inches of snow falls, but the operator can open their doors as often as they can afford to throughout the winter from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. When nobody stepped forward as Allen hoped, he offered up the church again. "I know for a fact there wouldn't be an emergency warming shelter in Portland if this church hadn't said we'd do it," he said. Over the last few years, as the need for social services has grown in Portland particularly for homeless and immigrant communities faith leaders have stepped up to fill in the gaps. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to the warming shelter which the church runs in partnership with Commonspace, a nonprofit providing housing and shelter support First Parish also provides free weekly dinners, hosts alcoholics anonymous meetings and works with the Wabanaki Alliance to help advocate for sovereignty. Other churches like St. Vincent De Paul, St. Luke's, First Baptist Portland and the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland operate food pantries, soup kitchens and free clothing drives in the city. "Every Sunday morning at the beginning of the service we say our mission statement, which is to nurture the spirit, grow in community and help heal the world," said Allen. "So I can't say that every Sunday morning and then close our doors and not help the unhoused people when the temperatures drop." Allen said that although the work is difficult, providing services to the community is a core part of his faith. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Knowing that we are providing that service is the most fulfilling work I've done in my career because we are actually saving people's lives," he said. "That feels really good, but it also feels really bad that we can't do more." Other faith leaders are in the same boat. HELPING WHEN THEY CAN The Rev. Bryan Breault at State Street United Church of Christ operates a family shelter from his church. It started two winters ago when Breault noticed an unprecedented need for warm clothes at the weekly clothing drive his church hosted. More than 120 people showed up one Sunday in January 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Many of them were new Mainers who had gotten off a bus in shorts and a T-shirt into a Maine winter," said Breault. And many of them, he soon realized, had no place to stay. He went home that night unable to sleep, wracking his brain for ways his congregation could help. "I had been thinking about the fact that our building is heated in the winter (and) could house people. And that's really what we're called to do, to try and help people," said Breault. Within a month he had a small family shelter up and running out of the church. Other religious leaders in the area created a coalition of volunteers from 16 congregations who were willing to help with operations, the city agreed to take on case management, furniture was donated, extra bathrooms were installed, and the place was up and running. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, it functions as an overflow shelter for the city's family shelter, which is consistently full. Like the city family shelter, the space does not exclusively cater to immigrant families, but they mostly have served immigrant families because the need is so great, according to Breault. The State Street family shelter has been able to extend its hours with the help of volunteers so that families can stay and rest for at least one day a week instead of having to pack up first thing in the morning. So far this winter, they have hosted four families for a total of 25 people. The shelter is open from November through May. In addition to the shelter, Breault's congregation continues to offer free donated clothes to the community and hands out bags with water, food and toothbrushes to the homeless. Like Allen, he said doing this work is a core tenet of his belief system. He wishes he could do more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "State Street Church values a sense of community and it values doing the work that was exemplified by Jesus, which involved caring for the poor, visiting the sick and people in prison," he said. "If we have the ability to help others we should do that." The Jewish Community Alliance has been offering social services for years, too, and has filled a key gap in social services by providing diapers for low-income families and refugee support services. The organization operates a diaper bank serving more than 400 clients each month. New diapers are available to be picked up or delivered to clients' homes. The JCA also has a refugee resettlement team staffed with caseworkers who connect refugees with housing, health care, food, cultural orientations and financial planning resources. They served more clients than ever before in 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The team tries to connect with refugees before they arrive to set up stable housing in advance, but when that's not possible they put up families in short-term rentals while they work on finding more permanent housing. Sam Cohen, operations director at the JCA, said the work his organization does in the community is the most meaningful part of his job. "Such a key part of Judaism is to welcome the stranger. We know what it's like to be strangers as a people in foreign lands, so we try to offer that support to others as much as we can," said Cohen. Cohen said a core belief in Judaism is that the world is broken and the Jewish people are on a mission to repair it as best they can. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "That's why we have those services, it's such an important part of what being Jewish means," said Cohen. "Working at this organization, that's what I take the most pride in, that we do those things." Copy the Story Link CHICAGO Power is slowly being restored to several buildings in the South Shore neighborhood. Heat and electricity went out at multiple buildings, including a high-rise near 74th and South Shore Drive, around 4 p.m. Sunday. Hundreds of residents went nearly 13 hours without power. Some told WGN News even the stairwells were dark, which led to the help of emergency personnel to get people up and down stairs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just before 5 a.m. Monday, ComEd had restored power via generator but they are still working to fully resolve the situation. A ComEd spokesperson says the company is still trying to confirm that an underground cable was the cause of the outage. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. A California teacher, who was six months pregnant, slipped and tragically fell to her death while on a hiking trip in Greece just before Christmas. Clara Thomann, 33, a science teacher at Dos Pueblos High School in Goleta, was trekking near the Preveli Monastery on the Greek Island of Crete about 12 p.m. on December 23 when she plummeted 164 feet down a gorge, according to multiple local media reports. After her partner, Elliot Finn, called for help at approximately 2 p.m., 21 firefighters and 10 firefighting vehicles were dispatched along with additional, specialized crews to rescue the woman in the inaccessible spot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rescuers managed to reach Thomann and administered first aid before she was transported to a safe location and picked up by emergency services. Thomann was rushed to Rethymno Hospital while she was still conscious, according to the Neakriti news agency. Due to the serious injuries sustained, she was later transferred to the Chania General Hospitals intensive care unit. Thomann, 33, was six months pregnant when she plummettd 164ft down a gorge (LinkedIn) She suffered multiple fractures to her skull, chest and leg. Her unborn child, who Finn said was due to be called Theodoro, also died during the fall, the family confirmed in a statement on Caring Bridge. Thomann was pronounced dead on December 29. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The injuries Clara sustained are insurmountable and she was declared brain dead, her family said. Thomanns loved ones respected her wishes as a registered organ donor and her heart, liver, and pancreas have been accepted for donation, the family said in the statement. Chania General Hospital confirmed to the Greek Reporter that the patients organs were donated for transplants in Athens and Heraklion. Thomanns family flew out to Crete to remember the teachers life. Weve been yowling and sobbing on the phone with friends and family, laughing and ordering the entire menus of restaurants here in Chania, and thinking about all the lessons Clara taught us, they said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a separate post on Caring Bridge, her partner Finn said: Weve been celebrating Clari, hiking to beaches and collecting shells, rocks, and more memories. Thanks so much for all the love and support. Clara Thomann was trekking near the Preveli Monastery on the Greek Island of Crete when she slipped and feel last month (Getty Images) Thomanns remains were transported to Athens on New Years Day and cremated on January 3, her family said. They added tha Thomanns ashes will be spread throughout Greece and Turkey at sites she wished to visit with Finn. Messages have been pouring in from loved ones and the local community, remembering the mark she left on her students. Clara was so supportive of our bilingual students, and I just loved working with her. She will be dearly missed, one person, who appears to be a colleague at her school, wrote in memoriam. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms. Thomann was one of my daughters favorite teacher [sic] at D.P. We are so very sorry for your losses, a parent of one of her students wrote. We send you our thoughts and prayers. Clara was an amazing, fun, beautiful person. She tutored our son all the way through Covid remote learning, a third person added. The Dos Pueblos High School thanked those in the local community for their thoughts as they come to terms with Thomanns loss. (KTLA) A schoolteacher from Santa Barbara County who was six months pregnant fell to her death while hiking on the Greek island of Crete late last month, according to multiple reports. The tragic incident occurred on Dec. 23 while 33-year-old Clara Thomann, a science teacher at Dos Pueblos High School in Goleta, and her partner, Elliot Finn, had been traveling over the holiday, the Los Angeles Times reported. According to the Santa Barbara County news outlet Noozhawk, first responders and construction workers toiled for hours to pull Thomann, who plummeted 164 feet down a gorge, out of the area and rushed her to the hospital after Finn called for help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 33-year-olds unborn child died from the fall, while Thomann suffered severe fractures to her chest and skull. A Greek news outlet cited by The Times reported that she was pronounced dead six days later, on Dec. 29. Heartbroken family members said in a post on the website CaringBridge that Thomanns injuries were insurmountable and that she had been declared brain dead, The Times reported. View of the bay and Falassarna Beach, located on the west coast of Crete. (Photo by Alexandra Schuler/picture alliance via Getty Images) The science teacher, according to a report by the Greek Reporter, was a registered organ donor in the U.S. and that family members who had traveled to be by her side honored her wish, allowing for the donation of her kidneys, liver and corneas to patients in need of transplants. Baby spider monkey found inside Rolls-Royce in critical condition Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are no words to describe the sadness we are all feeling, Dos Pueblos Principal Bill Woodard told Noozhawk. Ms. Thomann was so kind and such a great teacher who loved her students and loved science. Our hearts break for her family and for all of us who are feeling this loss. The high school principal added that officials were committed to supporting students struggling with the news of Thomanns death and that counselors would be available to them. Its at least the second time in a year that tragedy has struck in Greece for Southern California family members. In June 2024, 58-year-old retired L.A. County Deputy Sheriff Albert Calibet, a resident of Hermosa Beach, never returned from a hike on the Greek island of Amorgos. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite search and rescue efforts that included volunteers from the sheriffs department, Calibets brother, Oliver, announced several weeks after the disappearance that the familys search had been called off. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Dmytro Lubinets, Ukrainian Parliamentary Commissioner for Human Rights, says there is a preliminary agreement with Russia that prisoner of war exchanges will be conducted regularly in 2025, with priority given to seriously ill and seriously wounded POWs. Source: Lubinets in an interview with the Rada TV channel, as quoted on his Telegram channel Quote from Lubinets: "There is a preliminary agreement that exchanges will become systematic in 2025, with priority given to bringing back seriously ill and seriously wounded people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have also agreed that every Ukrainian prisoner of war and civilian hostage will receive a package of goods from Ukraine via the International Committee of the Red Cross. We will see whether the Russian side will keep its word." Background: According to Ukraines Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War, 11 prisoner exchanges with Russia took place in 2024 and 1,358 Ukrainian citizens were released. Support UP or become our patron! Any headline starting with children as young as 12 are will prompt a fatalistic sigh. In a country and a climate where children as young as 12 are addicted to porn, spending on average 21 hours a week on their phones, being prescribed antidepressants and until last year puberty blockers, not much would surprise me. But on Sunday, one Telegraph subheader still had me doing a double take: Children as young as 12 are being prescribed nicotine patches and gum on the NHS. I knew without reading another word that this wasnt going to be about cigarette smoking (which has been steadily declining among under 16s for over a decade) but the e-cigarettes weve allowed kids to become addicted to. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I know that nicotine-addict tweens are a direct result of the UK having had the most liberal vaping laws in the whole of Europe for years (a 2023 report by the Institute for Economic Affairs found the UK and Ireland had the most lax regulations of 30 European countries) and that this is us belatedly trying to right a wrong with another wrong sticking a (poison-filled) patch over the problem and hoping it goes away. Worst of all, I know that this comes down to pure cowardice. A cowardice weve demonstrated again and again when it comes to making difficult decisions that would protect our children. Was anyone surprised when Peter Kyle ruled out a social media ban for under-16s last week? I wasnt. Like the Tories, Labour has always talked a good duty of online care game, but when urged to follow Australias lead and restrict access to sites such as TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat, our technology secretary said an outright ban was not on the cards at the moment. For anyone not fluent in Lily-liver-ese, thats: Never going to happen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before you ask, theres also no work programme at the moment on banning smartphones to children, as Kyle told The Guardian in November. And despite the UK already lagging behind other countries when it comes to the phone restrictions now being implemented in schools across the world and overwhelming support from parents (60 percent of people in Britain think an outright ban should be enforced) the government has made it clear that it will not be following suit and prefers to leave matters to schools. Now thats the kind of bullish, conviction-filled talk we need from our leaders. Whats fascinating to me is that these are not complex issues, like assisted dying, where the pros and cons are often neck and neck, even the philosophers are tying themselves in knots and you could understand (if not forgive) a certain degree of cowardice. These are no-brainers. Obviously, you regulate vapes which contain both antifreeze and embalming fluid to the hilt, from the second they appear on the market. Obviously, you do not allow children to take life-changing drugs until their brains are fully developed. Obviously, you do not again, out of sheer gutlessness force teenage girls to share toilets with boys, even if you later realise your mistake. As for finding someone, in 2024, who will deny the negative impact of smartphone use and social media on children? Well, thats about as likely as finding someone who will tell you we should bring back asbestos, that over-processed foods are actually profoundly beneficial or that smoking has been unfairly vilified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although when I tried, as an experiment, to find such a person online, up popped Peter Kyle, arguing that there was a lack of firm, peer-reviewed evidence about the impact of smartphone and social media use on young people. Peter, the day they prove that TikTok has, in fact, been shown to improve concentration, brain health, personal relationships and overall mental wellbeing, I will owe you an apology. Back to smoking, and the 1,300 nicotine replacement prescriptions issued to young people last year, despite many of those being too young to legally purchase e-cigarettes or cigarettes to begin with. Those figures will rise, I can promise you. They will double, treble and quadruple as the scale of our failure to safeguard children from vaping addiction alongside other things becomes more apparent. As every parent will tell you, early cowardice only causes an awful lot of unnecessary pain later on. And if seeing a 12-year-old with a nicotine patch stuck to their arm isnt a wakeup call, I dont know what is. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Jan. 6 (UPI) -- President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden traveled Monday to Louisiana following the recent New Year's Day terror attack that left 14 dead and 35 injured in New Orleans. The Bidens landed in New Orleans on Monday afternoon and met with grieving families of the victims killed during last week's terror attack, the White House confirmed. Biden also met with New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell, special agent in charge of the investigation for the FBI, Lionel Myrthil, and Laura Cassidy, the wife of Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., as the White House announced additional federal resources to increase security ahead of next month's Super Bowl and Mardi Gras in March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We will use every tool available to fill local capability shortfalls to assure safe and secure events," said White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre. During their visit, the Bidens stopped at Bourbon Street, the site of the attack, where the first lady laid flowers at a memorial honoring the victims. In the evening, they attended an interfaith prayer service at St. Louis Cathedral hosted by the Archdiocese of New Orleans. Framed drawings of the victims of the New Year's Day truck attack are seen during a vigil on Canal and Bourbon Streets in New Orleans, Louisiana. President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden visited the site on Monday before meeting with local officials and attending an interfaith prayer service. Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI "Archbishop [Gregory Michael] Aymond continues to offer his prayers and condolences to those affected by this tragedy," the archdiocese said in a statement. "He asks that all join in prayer for our community today and every day as we work to build a culture that respects the life and dignity of all people." Candles with pictures of the victims of the New Year's Day truck attack were placed amongst rosaries at a memorial on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, Louisiana on Friday. Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI Happening Now: President Biden delivers remarks at an Interfaith Prayer Service for Peace and Healing with the families and community members impacted by the horrific attack on January 1. https://t.co/NTHb0rUCDK The White House (@WhiteHouse) January 7, 2025 During his remarks at the service, Biden said he grieved over the lives lost and vowed to support the French Quarter and "all the people of New Orleans as they heal." Cop cars and barricades block the entrance to Bourbon Street near a memorial for the victims of the New Year's Day truck attack in New Orleans after 42-year-old U.S. Army veteran Shamsud Din Jabbar drove a truck into a crowd at the edge of the French Quarter, killing at least 14 people and injuring dozens. Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI "And if there's one thing we know, New Orleans defines strength and resilience," Biden added, citing Hurricane Katrina. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I know events like this are hard. And the shock and pain are still so very raw. My wife Jill and I are here to stand with you, agree with you, pray with you and let you know you not alone," Biden said, as he announced plans to help New Orleans recover. "I'm directing my team to make every resource available to federal, state and local law enforcement to complete this investigation quickly," Biden said. Authorities say Texas native and U.S. Army veteran Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, was a pledged Islamic State loyalist who drove a rented pickup truck through a crowded New Year's Bourbon Street before he was shot and killed by local police. Makeshift memorials were created to honor the victims ahead of the Biden's visit. Meanwhile, Louisiana's Republican Gov. Jeff Landry planned to ask Biden to issue a disaster declaration to give the state greater flexibility in federal support as it takes its next steps. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also on Monday, Mayor Cantrell announced that this year's Mardi Gras festivities will have a level one SEAR threat rating outside its typical level two rating. Cantrell said she has been attempting to secure that rating since 2019, NOLA reported. "Mardi Gras 2025 is going to be the safest ever," the mayor said. The Big Apples new congestion pricing mandate has turned one city block into a pricey proposition. A single one-block stretch of First Avenue between 60th and 61st streets will now cost drivers $9 as they come off the Queensboro Bridge even though theyre driving north and away from the zone. Im shocked, Clement Foster, a 42-year-old Bronx resident, said as he sat in his black BMW on the corner of First Avenue and 60th Street on Sunday, the first day of the controversial new toll. The citys new congestion pricing plan has made it costly to drive a single Manhattan block even though its outside the toll zone. I didnt think Id get charged here, the Con Ed worker said. I dont even have E-ZPass so Im guessing Im paying the most. This sucks. I probably wont come into the city for work. Ill stay in the Bronx. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ill request it, he said. Ill ask my boss not to send me into Manhattan. Ilias Karanikolis, whos been driving a cab in the city for 41 years, called the whole thing ridiculous. I feel bad for all the people this will hurt, the Astoria resident said. It will hurt all the poor people here. We dont have business now. This will kill us. The city does whatever they want to do. Meanwhile, the bridge has undergone an overnight transformation thanks to Albanys new tax on driving into Midtown it is no longer the only free ride into Manhattan from Queens and Brooklyn. Drivers motoring into Manhattan on the bridge, also known as the 59th Street Bridge, will get hit with the $9 toll regardless of whether theyre heading to the heart of Midtown or north to the Bronx and upstate. Uber driver Ali Mohammed said he hasnt figured out how to charge passengers more due to the new toll. Michael Nagle The new congestion pricing mandate means the Queensboro Bridge is no longer a free ride into Manhattan. Michael Nagle The Post on Sunday spotted one possible way around it the 62nd Street exit off the upper deck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How many times will they charge me, complained Uber driver Ali Mohammed of Queens. I dont know how Im going to do this, how Im going to charge people for the additional toll today. Im not ready. Im not set up for this yet, he complained. I saw the sign yesterday but I didnt know it would start this morning. What will they make, a million dollars a day? Where is the money going? Manhattan attorney Carlos Carvajal said his buildings parking garage empties onto 60th Street and into the congestion pricing zone. Michael Nagle Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Kathy Hochuls congestion pricing plan, which kicked in on Sunday, charges vehicles driving into Manhattan a new toll starting at 60th Street and below from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Cars are charged $9 per day for entering the toll zone during those hours, while motorcycles pay $4.50, small trucks $14.40, and large trucks $21.60. Taxis, black cars and rideshare drivers get a bit of a break, with cabs paying 75 cents per ride and rideshare vehicles charged $1.50 per ride. The tolls go down by 75% overnight, but drivers without E-ZPass will get a notice in the mail and will pay a slightly larger fee although its not clear what the exact amount will be. Ilias Karankolis said the new congestion pricing toll is ridiculous and will only hurt poor people. Michael Nagle The money raised by the controversial plan will go to the MTA to help pay for the transit agencys $15 billion capital plan, state officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But for most New Yorkers, its just another pain in the pocket and not many are keen on using public transportation because of a recent spike in crime in the Big Apple subway system. And its not just the five boroughs feeling the pinch residents in the outer burbs will need to rethink their Gotham outings. In theory, it sounds like a really good idea, Westchester County mom Caroline Defilippo said of the toll. But in practice, living in Westchester, it doesnt really make sense for us, she said of taking mass transit to avoid the extra charge. Defilippo, a doctor, drove 30 minutes to a suburban train station Sunday, then stood on the platform for 10 minutes for a 45-minute Metro-North train ride into Manhattan just to take her 11-year-old daughter to see the musical Hamilton on Broadway for her birthday. The states new congestion pricing toll will pay for the MTAs $15 billion capital plan. Michael Nagle We come in all the time, but its going to make our commute much more complicated because its an added layer, she said of the toll. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One Manhattanite said its definitely hitting home for him. Congestion pricing is no incentive to take the subway, said Manhattan lawyer Carlos Carvajal whose buildings parking garage exits onto 60th Street. There is disincentive to take the subway. The crime and the craziness. The violence in the subway. Thats disincentivized me. On the weekends, maybe Ill consider the subway, if its just me, he said. But with all the craziness, with all the violent subway crime, Im being disincentivized. Especially if I have my wife with me or my daughter. Im really being disincentivized to take the subway on the weekends. In the meantime, Carvajal said he might be looking for a new home for his car. Im considering moving my car out of my buildings garage, to a garage a block or two north, maybe. Additional reporting by Dorian Geiger When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Credit: Getty Images There's been plenty of speculation about where Prince William and Kate Middleton will send their oldest son, Prince Georgewho is currently 11 years oldwhen the times comes for him to change schools when he's 13 and leave Lambrook, the school he currently attends with his younger siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. The decision is one that the Prince and Princess of Wales have reportedly butted heads over, with each reportedly keen for George to attend their own alma maters. For William, that means the prestigious all-boys Eton College and for Kate, it would mean George attending Marlborough College, a co-ed school that would allow George to attend the same school as both of his younger siblings when the time comes for them to leave Lambrook as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reports have differed when it comes to which way the royals are leaning for the decision. OK reported in October 2023 that William's push for Eton had "finally won" after years of arguments, citing George, who "wants to be just like his father," as the deciding factor and saying thatfinally gave in, shes still heartbroken" over the decision. Just two months later, in December 2023, The Mirror reported that after heated debates," Marlborough had won out over Eton. After years of discussion and heated debates between William, Kate, and King Charles, the family have made a choice, a source told that outlet. Theyve decided that he and sister [Princess] Charlotte will attend boarding school together. Theyll both be students at Marlborough. This way, George and Charlotte will have a few years where theyll overlap at the same school. No official announcement has been made yet about where George will attend school, but The Mirror is reporting that a third option might be a dark horse contenderat least according to former BBC Royal Correspondent Jennie Bond, who told OK that it's a big year for George.I imagine the decision about where he goes next has been pretty much sealed by now. I might take a punt on Wellington College." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bond points to a couple of key factors that might make Wellington College an "ideal" choice for the Wales children's future schooling. Its only half an hour from Windsor; the pupils can board (full-time or weekly) or be day students," she explains "And, a huge plus...its co-educational, which means all three could go there in the future. Sounds ideal to me! Bond went on to say it was a "wise decision" for Will and Kate to keep their children together in their early school yearssomething she says "very much proved to be the case, especially during this past difficult year" amid the Princess of Wales' cancer treatments. It must have been a huge comfort for the three of them to be together at school when life at home was so full of anxiety (however much William and Catherine tried to shield them)," she said. "And it seems the school has protected them well and has been admirably discreet about whats been happening. The children deserve that protection at this unnerving time for them. A prison officer filmed having sex with a burglar in his prison cell has been jailed for 15 months after admitting another incident with the same inmate on the same day. Linda De Sousa Abreu, 30, of Fulham, appeared in an explicit video filmed inside HMP Wandsworth prison in south London which went viral online last year. The prison officer, wearing full uniform, was filmed by another prisoner having sex with Linton Weirich, 36, in June, with what the judge described as evident enthusiasm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was sentenced on Monday at Isleworth crown court to 15 months in prison, half of which will be served on licence, after admitting three separate sexual encounters with the convicted burglar. Abreu, an OnlyFans model who also appeared on a Channel 4 television series about swinging, previously pleaded guilty to misconduct in a public office. Linda De Sousa Abreu leaves Isleworth crown court last year after a plea hearing - Julian Simmonds Sentencing her, Judge Martin Edmunds KC, the Recorder of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, said a fellow prisoner, who was not named, filmed the tryst on an unauthorised phone while appearing to smoke cannabis. The recording lasts some four-and-a-half minutes, the judge said. You participated with evident enthusiasm. The second prisoner recorded events and provided a commentary by way of encouragement, including saying: Guys we made history, This is how we live at Wandsworth bruv, and You know you are a gangsta. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Edmunds said Abreu had also admitted two other sexual liaisons with Weirich, a convicted burglar, one of which was accidentally recorded on her bodyworn camera. One was performing oral sex on the same prisoner on a separate occasion on the same day, an event partly recorded, by accident, on your prison issued body worn camera, he said. The other was a previous occasion of sexual intercourse with the same prisoner. He added: They show that this offence was not isolated. It was part of repeated behaviour. It is not clear when the earliest offence occurred so I shall assume the repetition was within a few days. Linton Weirich, who appears in the video with De Sousa Abreu, was serving time in prison for burglary Judge Edmunds said Abreu knew that conduct was forbidden and forbidden for good reason and that it had put fellow officers at increased risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is inevitable that the damage for which you were responsible at Wandsworth has spread, to some degree, through the prison estate, he said. In a statement earlier read to the court, Andrew Davy, the governor of HMP Wandsworth, said her actions had undone years of efforts to increase male prisoners respect for female officers. It has taken many years for female staff to be respected and treated professionally in a male dominated environment, he said. The action of this defendant has undone years of positive and rewarding prisoner interactions in less than a day. Rajiv Menon KC, representing Abreu, told the court she accepted full responsibility for her actions. Linda De Sousa Abreu is an OnlyFans model. Right, pictured after her arrest He asked that her sentence be reduced, citing a psychiatric report that found she had a severe personality disorder that combined with ADHD made her a highly impulsive and reckless person who tends to act without considering the consequences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (The doctor) then concludes that Ms Abreu is a highly emotional, damaged individual who over the years has increasingly used sex as a means to feel positive emotions, he told the court. We submit on her behalf that the mental disorder should in all fairness significantly reduce her culpability in this case. Abreu was close to tears as Judge Edmunds sentenced her. The sentence on you is one of 15 months imprisonment, he said. Of that you will serve half in custody, unless the prison authorities decide to release you earlier. The remainder you will serve on licence. You have been subject to a qualifying curfew for 190 days and that entitles you to a credit of 95 days against that sentence. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. MECHANICSBURG, Pa. (WHTM) A Cumberland County inmate voluntarily returned to the county prison after walking away from a work release on Sunday afternoon. Trevor W. McGarrity, 28, was wanted by the Cumberland County Sheriffs Office after being seen leaving his work assignment at the GIANT Food Store on Carlisle Pike in Mechanicsburg. McGarrity was unaccounted for by law enforcement for approximately 24 hours. Get daily news, weather, breaking news and alerts straight to your inbox! Sign up for the abc27 newsletters here McGarrity will face additional charges related to his disappearance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. As the new top environment cop in Illinois, James Jennings knew coming in his job would be challenging no matter who won the presidential election. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency is rebuilding under Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker after more than a decade spent shedding inspectors, slowing the policing of air and water pollution and feuding with the state attorney generals office. During the past two years alone, the agency added 261 new employees, according to state records. Its budget rose to $871 million in 2024, nearly double the amount spent in 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But it is unclear if new blood and more money can offset Republican President-elect Donald Trumps promised rollbacks of federal environmental protections. Trump also vows to dismantle the U.S. EPA, which in recent years led most of the major cases against Illinois polluters. Things will be different than how we currently work with the federal government, Jennings, the new Illinois EPA director, said in a recent interview with the Chicago Tribune. Our priorities are going to be the same. Topping Jennings agenda is expanding the states efforts to slow climate change, taking more aggressive action to protect Illinoisans from toxic forever chemicals, speeding up the removal of brain-damaging lead pipes and addressing environmental justice concerns. He acknowledged the agency needs to build trust throughout the state a tough assignment when some believe it is too tough on businesses and others repeatedly document weak enforcement of environmental laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those of us of a certain age recall the (U.S.) EPA was the agency vilified in Ghostbusters, Jennings said. We need to do a better job being transparent and helping communities identify where they can go with their issues. Some of the improvements he outlined are required under the February settlement of a federal civil rights lawsuit. Lawyers for community groups filed the suit in response to the Illinois EPAs approval of a scrap shredder in Chicagos predominantly Latino Southeast Side after the owners closed their often-troubled General Iron operation in wealthy, largely white Lincoln Park. Public outreach, the most tangible piece of any environmental justice program, has been spotty at best in Illinois, and not just regarding the scrap shredder permit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 2018 Tribune investigation found no public hearings had been held in nearly two years as the Illinois EPA evaluated permits that could increase pollution in environmental justice communities, including one for an asphalt plant in the McKinley Park neighborhood. Even when notices about permits were sent to neighborhood groups, the letters didnt detail how the public could become involved. Nor did they outline the period of time the public had to respond. Another Tribune investigation that year found then-Republican Gov. Bruce Rauners administration had dramatically reduced penalties sought from polluters, largely because the Illinois EPA cut back on referring cases to the attorney generals office for prosecution. Jennings, an attorney who has worked at the agency for 13 years and most recently served as deputy director, said 100 cases had been sent to Attorney General Kwame Raoul in 2024. On average the Illinois EPA under Pritzker has asked Raoul to step in 120 times a year, compared with 80 on average during each of Rauners four years in office, according to state records. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In future enforcement cases, Jennings said, fines will be directed to projects in affected communities rather than being funneled to a general pot of money in state coffers. By contrast, during Trumps first term the Justice Department stopped pushing for community-based projects during negotiations with polluters. There are scores of other ways Trumps probable second-term agenda runs counter to the environmental policies of Pritzker and President Joe Biden. For instance, Trump calls climate change a hoax, promises a massive expansion of fossil fuel production and plans to undercut Bidens ambitious climate programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, brokered by Pritzker and the General Assembly, phases out fossil-fuel electric generation in Illinois within the next quarter century, encourages more rapid expansion of renewable energy and provides state rebates for buying electric vehicles, among other things. A $430 million grant from the Biden administration will be spent on initiatives such as electrifying heavy-duty fleet vehicles and connecting locomotives to electric power at rail yards to reduce lung-damaging pollution. The Illinois EPA estimates those projects and others financed by the grant will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 57 million metric tons, equivalent to taking 600,000 cars off the roads. Another difference: Chemical companies are urging Trump to reverse regulations adopted by Biden setting the first national limits on certain forever chemicals in drinking water. Industry lobbyists and Republicans in Congress want Trump to ax a rule that declares two of the most widely studied chemicals as hazardous under the federal Superfund law, a policy change that forces polluters, rather than taxpayers, to pay for cleanups. State rules proposed by the Illinois EPA would limit the chemicals in groundwater relied upon for public and private wells, opening the door to future action against those responsible for the contamination. Jennings said the agency is working with the Illinois Department of Public Health to help well owners determine if their water is contaminated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 8 million Illinoisans 6 out of every 10 people in the state get their drinking water from a utility where at least one forever chemical has been detected, a 2022 Tribune investigation found. Another 1.4 million depend on private wells, but there has been no systematic approach to determine if any of them are unknowingly ingesting chemicals that build up in human blood, cause cancer and other diseases and take years to leave the body. People who have worked with Jennings during his other jobs at the Illinois EPA speak highly of him. That said, there remain sharp differences between business groups and environmental advocates about the agencys role. Jen Walling, executive director of the nonprofit Illinois Environmental Council, worries state lawmakers wont have the political will to respond to Trumps expected cuts to the U.S. EPA. Unlike other state agencies funded with general tax collections, the Illinois EPAs budget depends solely on federal grants and permit fees. No matter how exceptional (Jennings) may be, hes going to be faced with decisions that already were made for him during the past decade, Walling said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The long decline in agency staffing also frustrated industry executives. At one point, it took the Illinois EPA more than 650 days to review Clean Air Act permits for big polluters. Pritzkers three predecessors Rauner and Democrats Pat Quinn and Rod Blagojevich refused to negotiate with the business community about the Illinois EPAs budget and staffing needs, said Mark Denzler, president of the Illinois Manufacturers Association. Denzler said his group isnt opposed to regulations if, in his words, they are smart and sensible. He said his members want more certainty with permit applications and renewals, and a seat at the table when new state regulations are proposed. We need to protect the land, water, and air, while at the same allowing economic growth, Denzler said. You allow new investment in Illinois, you allow the economy to move forward. Its a balancing act that makes the most sense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In many ways the Illinois EPA directors job is far more complicated than it was 30 years ago when Mary Gade led the agency under then-Republican Gov. Jim Edgar. One of Gades big tasks was hammering out an agreement between industries, environmental groups and other states. In 1990, bipartisan majorities in Congress amended the federal Clean Air Act to confront rising levels of lung-damaging smog fueled by emissions from coal-fired power plants. The deal Gade helped negotiate led to a sharp drop in smog pollution throughout the United States. Smog is still a problem, Gade noted. So are contaminated sites abandoned by industry. But now those well-understood threats to public health and the environment vie for attention and money with more recently discovered hazards such as forever chemicals and microplastics. The days of sweeping bipartisan legislation from Congress appear to be a relic from the past. Republicans in the House of Representatives routinely attack the U.S. EPA and introduce legislation to abolish its authority. A right-wing majority on the U.S. Supreme Court reduced the power of federal agencies to adopt environment and safety regulations unless lawmakers spell out the details. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even without those hurdles it often takes persistent citizens, pressure from nonprofit groups and the glare of media attention to break through inertia among federal and state employees compared to either jack-booted thugs or hapless bureaucrats. Many of these newer threats have become integrated into our society, not just as waste, but in products, said Gade, who also served as the U.S. EPAs regional administrator under Republican President George W. Bush. Its almost overwhelming. You need an agency leader who has vision and adequate staffing, and a president or governor who agrees about the course you need to take. _____ A group of pro-government Slovak lawmakers plan to visit Moscow later in January to develop "dialogue" with Russia, according to Andrej Danko, the chair of the co-ruling far-right Slovak National Party (SNS) who will take part in the delegation, the Slovak news agency TASR reported on Jan. 5. Danko, a Russian-friendly nationalist who serves as the parliament deputy speaker, announced in early December his intent to visit Russia, weeks before Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Fico's Slovak government has been consistently critical of military support for Ukraine and sanctions against Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More recently, Bratislava threatened Kyiv with cutting energy and humanitarian support after Ukraine did not prolong the transit deal on Russian gas flowing to Slovakia and other EU countries via Ukrainian pipelines. "We want to understand certain positions, legislature, and restore some relations with Russia," Danko noted, presenting the trip as a continuation of Fico's visit on Dec. 22. The six-member delegation, which will include lawmakers from Danko's SNS and Fico's Smer (Direction) party, is expected to meet representatives of the Russian government and the parliament. "We want to open the eyes of the people in Slovakia," Danko said, talking about the supposed importance of Russian gas and Russia's business ties with Western companies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the EU's attempts at weaning itself off Russian fossil fuels in the wake of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, countries like Slovakia and Hungary remain heavily reliant on Russian gas. Fico was not the first Slovak official to visit Russia last year. Lubos Blaha, a pro-Kremlin member of the European Parliament for the Smer party, visited Moscow in October 2024, praising Russia as "beautiful, wise, and advanced" and calling for an end to hatred towards the country. Read also: We are not Russia Thousands protest Ficos pro-Kremlin agenda in Bratislava Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. While targets for reducing polluting gases keep being made and revised, one prominent scientist says there isn't much time to act to slow the planet's warming. In an interview with the BBC, primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall stressed the urgency of protecting the environment and wildlife. What's happening? Dr. Goodall said, "We're in the midst of the sixth great extinction." She added, "We don't have much time left to start helping the environment. We've done so much to destroy it." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, she hasn't lost all hope. "We still have a window of time to start slowing down climate change and the loss of biodiversity. But it's a window that's closing." Dr. Goodall noted that destroying wild places is linked to the warming planet because trees are vital for absorbing polluting gases. When she studied chimpanzees more than 60 years ago, the two wet seasons happened like clockwork. Now, it can rain in the dry season and be dry in the rainy season, which makes it difficult for chimpanzees, birds, and insects. Dr. Goodall said it's vital to "impose tough regulations on what people are able to do to the environment," "rapidly move away from fossil fuel," and stop industrial farming. She said if these things don't happen, "The future is ultimately doomed." Why is acting quickly to protect the planet important? According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, scientists say a warming planet is the "biggest global health threat of the 21st century." Many places are experiencing extreme heat that never did before, meaning people don't have solutions such as AC to handle it, and it doesn't even cool down at night. This causes heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and cardiovascular and kidney diseases. Could America stop using oil and gas by 2050? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind There are hundreds of cases of extreme heat every year in the U.S., and they are killing more people on average than other deadly weather events, like hurricanes. The warmer weather is also causing storms to be worse and more frequent. Wetter areas are becoming wetter, and drier places are drier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The NRDC also noted the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported that 2021 saw 20 climate-based disasters in the United States that resulted in at least $1 billion in costs. The total cost to communities across the year was $145 billion, which also doesn't include health damages. What's being done about the warming planet? Dr. Goodall says one remedy is habitat restoration, such as tree planting. Her foundation and non-profit tech company are working on just that. Over the past five years, her organizations have planted over two million trees in Uganda. You can also help by using your voice to vote for pro-climate candidates and urging your elected officials to enact environmentally friendly policies. You can also donate to climate causes, such as Dr. Goodall's organizations, that are working to help save the planet. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. A Milwaukee woman turned to her boyfriend for help in arranging to kill a former lover, prosecutors allege in court papers. The transaction was recorded on jailhouse audio, according to a Jan. 3 criminal complaint. Ashanti Davis, 25, is charged with solicitation of first-degree intentional homicide in the Nov. 1 shooting death of 29-year-old Bernell D. Hall. Davis was booked into the Milwaukee County Jail on New Year's Eve, jail records show. Her cash bond was set Saturday at $100,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Davis is scheduled to appear in court on Friday for a preliminary hearing. More: John Chisholm recounts 18 years as Milwaukee County District attorney as he exits the role Here's what prosecutors say happened Milwaukee police were called to North 87th Street and West Carmen Avenue for a shooting around 1:20 a.m. on Nov. 1. When they arrived, officers found the victim. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Court filings said three bullet casings were found near Hall's body. The medical examiner's office ruled his cause of death a homicide. Davis was interviewed at the scene, and she told investigators she and Hall had just gotten out of a car when two "masked men" ordered them to lie down and empty their pockets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Davis told police she heard one gunshot, and the men fled. According to the complaint, Davis gave a detective her phone number, and the number revealed phone calls that led him to believe Davis had arranged to have Hall killed during a fake robbery, the document said. The complaint said Davis received multiple phone calls from "an inmate at a correctional institution." Detectives determined Davis and the inmate were in an ongoing "romantic relationship." Calls from the jail are recorded and can be admissible in court or be used in criminal investigations. More: A report by the Wisconsin Policy Forum says arrests in Milwaukee are down. Here's why Here's what was allegedly said in Ashanti Davis' conversation a jail inmate before her previous boyfriend was killed On Oct. 28, in a call to Davis from an inmate, Davis allegedly tells the inmate, identified only as KD, that she needs to tell him something in person, according to the criminal complaint. KD pressed her to tell him what its about, and Davis allegedly said, Baby daddy, boom, pop, boom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a call from the inmate to Davis on the next day, Davis allegedly told the inmate that she got a cat to kill the rat. She also explained she needed to speak in riddles because she was aware the call was monitored. During a call on Oct. 31, Davis allegedly told the inmate she was trying to get a (expletive) put on the floor and that it was "going to happen real soon." The inmate called Davis' number on Nov. 1, about 12 hours after the killing, and said she and Hall "were robbed and people think (Davis) had something to with it," the complaint says. She said she felt bad, and the man told her, "That's what you wanted," according to the document. Numerous other calls between Davis and the inmate show they have carried on a romantic relationship for six months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: 'Silly the Clown' sentenced to 30 years in prison for killing his infant daughter 33 years ago Detectives interviewed Davis on Dec. 30. She told them she had been pregnant by Hall, and denied setting up the robbery. Detectives played one of the jail recordings. She acknowledged her voice was on the call, but denied she was referring to a homicide, the complaint states. The baby whom Davis and Hall shared died at birth in October 2023. If convicted, Davis could be sent to prison for up to 12 years. This story was updated to add new information. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee woman charged with setting up hit to kill her ex-boyfriend YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) Mahoning County prosecutors on Monday filed their opposition to an early release request by a man who is serving a sentence for shooting at a North Side home in 2022. The brief was filed in common pleas court before Judge John Durkin opposing the request for Richard Henry, 35. Henry is serving a three to four-year prison term after pleading guilty May 16, 2023, to a charge of felonious assault, a second-degree felony, and a firearm specification. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Henry was accused of shooting at a home in December 2022 on Crandall Avenue on the North Side. Three children under 13 were in the home at the time of the shooting and police found two bullet holes in the home. Police found Henry nearby and he said, Its me, I did it, reports said. Nearby police also found a semiautomatic handgun, reports said. No one was injured in the shooting. Henry also applied for judicial release earlier this year and that request was denied May 23. His latest request was filed Dec. 6. In their opposition brief, prosecutors said that judicial release should not be granted because it would be an abuse of Henrys plea. Henry pleaded guilty and got a sentence far less than what he would have been given if he had gone to trial and been found guilty, prosecutors wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, prosecutors wrote: He has not yet been adequately been punished for his actions. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. JOHNSTON, R.I. (WPRI) A Providence firefighter was arrested over the weekend after he allegedly assaulted two police officers at a Johnston bar. Officers responded to The Ave Bar and Grille on Hartford Avenue around 11:50 p.m. Saturday for reports of a man causing a disturbance. Police said the man, later identified as 42-year-old Patrick Brearley, appeared extremely intoxicated and disoriented. Despite requests for him to leave and offers to take him to the hospital, Brearley refused to comply, according to police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the officers started to escort Brearley outside, he allegedly resisted, pulling away and clenching his fists, which prompted police to take him to the ground. Police said he then punched one officer in the face and, during efforts to handcuff him, struck a second officer. The officers were eventually able to gain control and take Brearley into custody. After being discharged from the hospital, he was charged with simple assault, resisting arrest, and disorderly conduct. Brearley is scheduled to be arraigned on Friday. Police said the officers involved were not seriously injured. 12 News has confirmed that Brearley is still an active firefighter and the department is investigating the incident. Close Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Breaking News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. PATTON, Pa. Multiple fire crews responded to a significant structure fire in Patton Borough Saturday, resulting in a total loss and units contacting the Pennsylvania State Police fire marshal to investigate. The call came in at 12:30 p.m., Cambria 911 reported, and involved a building on the 500 block of Fifth Avenue. We mounted an interior attack upon arrival, but the biggest problem we had was wind conditions that kept shifting, which kept driving the fire, Patton Fire Department Assistant Chief Jerry Brant said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Firefighters from Patton, Carrolltown, Hastings, Ashville, Spangler, Nanty Glo, Hope and Dauntless fire departments responded to the two-story structure that was most recently a mechanics garage. Brant said the structure had been remodeled several times through the years and that caused many challenges for first responders. Another difficulty was Saturdays frigid temperatures. Despite those issues, the fire was contained to that one building, no injuries were reported and the building was deemed a total loss. Brant said units cleared the scene around 4 p.m. Hastings and John Carrol EMS, and Patton police also responded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This was the second of two fires that area first responders dealt with Saturday. The first in downtown Johnstown was called in at 5:30 a.m. According to the Cambria County 911 media page, City of Johnstown firefighters responded to a house fire on the 600 block of Highlands Avenue in the citys Moxham section. No injuries were reported. Johnstown fire, 7th Ward Ambulance, Hilltop EMS, Conemaugh Memorial Medical Centers DART unit and Johnstown police responded. GROVE, Okla. The parents of two Grove students are asking the public for information about their childrens whereabouts. Grove Police Chief Mark Morris said Braxton Berry and Jennifer Deals identities have been entered into a national database. They are listed as runaways, he said. The teens telephones are broken or disabled. The last known GPS address indicated the phones were near Miami on Saturday. The individuals living at the address said they hadnt seen the teens since Saturday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grove man killed in one-car crash Berry is 6 feet tall, weighs 260 pounds, and has brown curly hair and eyes. He was last seen on January 2 wearing jeans and a light blue and white tribal print jacket and boots. He is a Grove High School senior. He was supposed to return home on January 3 but hasnt been seen. His family said he withdrew almost $300 from his bank account on Jan. 3. The last known vehicle he was driving was a Tahoe discovered wrecked in a Miami field with mud up to the vehicles axles. Deal is 5 feet, 1 inch tall, weighs 105 pounds, and has black shoulder-length hair and brown eyes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you have information, please contact the Delaware County Sheriff at (918) 253-4531. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. Jan. 6When Molly Owens became a lawyer, she knew she wanted to represent those who needed her most. So about 10 years ago, she took the necessary training and joined a roster of private attorneys willing to accept court-appointed work including parents who were at risk of losing custody of their children to the state. She said she quickly learned these families are often misunderstood. Many times, Owens said, she has seen the child protective system hurt her clients more than it's helped them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I couldn't possibly overstate the impact on families," Owens said in a recent interview. "There's a fear that attaches and a trauma that attaches that doesn't go away." Owens, who has worked in Washington and Hancock counties, was hired in September to lead the state's new Parents Counsel Division for the Maine Commission on Public Defense Services. As Maine moves toward creating a more traditional public defense system, relying less on private attorneys to step up and do indigent work, she is helping set up an office to exclusively represent parents in child protection matters. Like in most public defense cases moving through Maine's judicial system, there are rarely enough lawyers and many parents who can't afford an attorney are without representation. According to data from the courts, judges were seeking lawyers in more than 100 parental cases across the state as of Friday. But only about 25 attorneys were available to take them, roughly a quarter of the number available two years ago. And most cases required at least two attorneys, since each parent is entitled to a representative of their own. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some attorneys have retired or are no longer practicing. Others have had to take on less work after the commission enacted new caseload standards. "My message, really, is that this will take some time," Owens said. As she slowly builds out the new office, Owens said she wants to lay down the foundation for a system where attorneys aren't working alone, but have colleagues to lean on and strategize with. She wants a team that will challenge the status quo. Tackling the state's list of unrepresented parents will be a priority for her division but she can only hire three attorneys to start, and in the meantime, the Department of Health and Human Services, embroiled in its own crises over protecting children, continues to file new cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several attorneys who represent parents told the Press Herald that they feel the department is filing more petitions than the system can handle. The Office of the Maine Attorney General, which represents the state when DHHS chooses to file a petition, was unable to provide annual data in time for this story. These attorneys described their work with both passion and exhaustion. They have represented parents who want the best for their children but are often in crisis, they said, many dealing with domestic violence, mental illness, substance use disorder or severe poverty. Yet research shows that removals can have negative long-term consequences on children and their development. Child protective workers also have raised concerns with their agency's capacity to handle more cases. There aren't enough placements for children after they've been removed. Some are waiting in hotels. "It is indicative of the fact they are removing too many kids," said Julian Richter, an attorney in Bath and president of the Maine Parental Rights Attorneys Association. "It's just creating more trauma for the kids. You're not considering the offset there, whether could they have been safer in their own home." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 'WE BELIEVE IN THIS WORK' Any time the Office of Child and Family Services, which is overseen by DHHS, files a petition for a child protection order, Maine parents are legally entitled to an attorney at no cost and a hearing within 120 days to challenge the department's case. Oftentimes, the state will also request to immediately remove the child from their home. In those cases, parents are entitled to a faster hearing within one to two weeks to establish whether there's an immediate risk. These orders typically include an attorney's name and contact information. That way, the parent can get started on mounting their case, which is more urgent if there's a request for immediate removal. If a parent would rather work with the state and make changes for a safer home, then attorneys can help them navigate mental health services, substance use treatment, housing aid and other programs. They can also demand help from the department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But as Maine struggles to find attorneys, judges are increasingly leaving that section of their orders blank. Still, even without representation, the department is allowed to remove children, and crucial court dates that will determine when they can come home are being delayed. In one parent's case, Richter said a mother waited two months for an immediate risk hearing. "And I think that's not an uncommon situation at this point," Richter said. "Especially when a kid has been removed, that's when you're really talking about a constitutional crisis of sorts." As of Jan. 3, there were roughly 115 child protective cases that needed lawyers. Some of those cases date to April. More than half were added within the last two months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Lewiston courts needed help finding attorneys for about 55 parents last fall, Taylor Kilgore said she went through each of their files and appealed to her peers to take them on. She found counsel for 21 parents. "We hate seeing that list," said Kilgore, an attorney who has represented parents and children in Turner. "We do this work because we believe in this work. Seeing that list regularly and seeing there are parents without counsel is heartbreaking for us, and it is infuriating." ONE OF MANY ISSUES As the state's child welfare ombudsman, Christine Alberi investigates complaints from various people who come into contact with the system and releases an annual report to lawmakers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alberi hears often from parents whose children have been removed. But it wasn't until the last year or so that she started hearing more about lawyers. She said she is concerned that children are spending more time away from their parents because court dates keep getting put off. Without a lawyer, many parents don't know whether they can still see their kids or maintain contact. Parents' attorneys are often the ones who apply pressure on the department when it struggles to arrange supervised visits. "Visitation, is probably the most important part of the reunification process," said Alberi. "It's most important for the kids. Regardless of anything else, the kids love their parents. And it's really key that the kids see their parents and understand they haven't been abandoned, it isn't their fault. The visits are really, primarily, for the children." Robin Upton-Sukeforth, a union representative for the state's child protective workers, said her members are feeling unprecedented levels of stress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are more children in state custody now than ever in the last 20 years, hitting about 2,500 in September. And because court cases take longer to process when parents are unrepresented, this is only adding to their work. "You're putting the kids in limbo," Upton-Sukeforth said, speaking for a handful of caseworkers who did not want to be interviewed. "I can't imagine having a kid in limbo for that long." Caseworkers have been under a lot pressure after several recent high-profile child deaths in homes where parents had been investigated for abuse or neglect. Attorneys who have represented parents say those cases are the exception. They feel too much effort has been placed on encouraging overworked caseworkers to be more aggressive, instead of increasing in-home behavioral health services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "What a lot of people don't understand is that it's incredibly scary when the department knocks at your door and says, 'We need to see the inside of your house and talk with your child in the next 24 hours.' Anybody who has kids is going to be unable to function in that moment," Richter said. STRUCTURAL CHANGE As lawyers, caseworkers and families endure the growing crisis, the Parents Counsel Division's work will depend on what Maine is willing to invest. Owens hired her first staff attorney on Thursday and is still taking applications for two others. It's unclear where the attorneys will be based. Public defense is still relatively new to Maine, which didn't launch its first office for criminal cases until late 2022. She hopes that her team will create systemic change. Similar agencies in other states, including the Children and Family Law Division of the Massachusetts Committee for Public Counsel Services, say they have successfully expanded parents' rights. In one 2017 case, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court sided with CAFL and ruled that the state must show it made "reasonable efforts" to avoid separating children. When the department hasn't done that, a judge can issue orders to accelerate the reunification process. In another case from 2021, a judge agreed with CAFL that parents are allowed to request a hearing when they believe Massachusetts has failed to make reasonable efforts to reunite families. In that case, the state had ordered a mother to take parenting classes and complete a neuropsychological evaluation. The department had resources available to help her, but they didn't connect her with a provider who spoke Somali Mai Mai, her primary language. "They definitely have moved the ball forward in terms of giving our attorneys more arguments to push against the department not making efforts," said CAFL's Deputy Chief Counsel Daniel Mahoney. Attorneys representing parents in Maine are hopeful that the new division will be successful. But even if the state had a lawyer for every parent, some say the system would still be flawed. "We need to be putting the energy into all of the parts for it to get better," said Kilgore, the attorney in Turner. "Some of them just get caught in the system, and some of them are just trying to do the best they can with what they've got. If we want to fix those problems, we have to give them resources." Copy the Story Link Despite the challenges, many Puerto Ricans refused to let the blackout dampen our spirits. Photo: Courtesy of Victoria Leandra AsPuertoRicans prepared to welcome 2025, we woke up Tuesday morning to find the island in complete darkness. A blackout that began at 5:30 a.m. on Dec. 31 left nearly all of Puerto Ricos 1.47 million utility customers, including me, without power. For my family, adapting to the circumstances became part of the days narrative. We headed to the beach in Guanica, hoping the power would be back by the time we returned. It wasnt. As the sun set, I rushed to shower before utter darkness, leaving my hair unstyled a rarity on New Years Eve. On social media, dozens of Puerto Rican women shared similar stories, from running extension cords to a neighbors generator to get their hair and makeup done, to ironing clothes using borrowed electricity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet, as night fell, hundreds gathered at La Pargueras iconic New Years Eve street party in Lajas, a small city on the western side of the island, determined to celebrate. Mayra Ortiz, a 21-year-old from nearby Cabo Rojo, described the mornings power outage as an all-too-familiar ordeal. Another papelon in Puerto Rico, she said, using local slang for a messy situation. There are so many families who were planning to have their New Years Eve dinner, and now they wont be able to. Its frustrating to keep living under the same circumstances. For Mayra Ortiz, the New Year's Eve blackout was an all-too-familiar ordeal. Photo: Victoria Leandra For Ortiz, the blackout wasnt just an inconvenience, it was a reflection of deeper systemic failures that have plagued the island. We think things are going to change with a new government, but no, everything is still the same, Ortiz told me, expressing her disillusionment with the islands new governor, Jenniffer Gonzalez Colon. Ortizs frustration mirrors the simmering anger across the island, which came to a head during Gonzalezs swearing-in ceremony on Thursday. Before the event, a protester disrupted a Mass the governor attended, yelling, Jenniffer, we came for you! Puerto is without power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During her gubernatorial race, the candidate for the New Progressive Party (PNP) assured that, if elected, she would cancel the LUMA Energy contract. LUMA Energy is the private company managing Puerto Ricos power grid since June 2021, following a controversial government-awarded contract, and has been widely criticized for power outages, surges and rate increases. LUMA has faced ongoing protests fueled by concerns over mismanagement and lack of public input in its selection. Though power was restored to most of the island by Wednesday afternoon, the blackout disrupted New Years Eve celebrations and underscored the frustrations of many Puerto Ricans. Cesar Causal, who turned 62 on New Years Day, lamented the lack of maintenance and investment in the islands electrical grid, which has led to constant power outages. I was born in the 60s, and power was a luxury then, he reflected. Im accustomed to these events, but its sad that in the 21st century were still dealing with this. In 2017, Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Ricos already fragile electricity grid, leaving customers on the island in darkness for up to 328 days the longest blackout in U.S. history and exposing years of underfunding, mismanagement, and the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authoritys $9 billion debt crisis, which had led to its bankruptcy just months before the storm. Not much progress has been made since. Despite it all, Causal has remained positive, saying, A mal tiempo, buena cara, which translates to, In bad times, we put on a good face. Nothing, he insisted, would stop him from celebrating. Yet his optimism carries a warning. Its up to the people we choose to govern to fix this problem once and for all, he said. We cant continue living with such a fragile electrical infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For others, the blackout was a harsh reminder of why they decided to move away from their home. Joel Negron, now living in Augusta, Georgia, had returned to Lajas for the holidays, eager to spend time with his children. I came to enjoy my island, and this is what I encountered, said Negron, who works as a federal monitor on reconstruction projects tied to Hurricane Maria. We may be cold and without our loved ones in the U.S. but at least we have our basic necessities met, he added, alluding to the difficult trade-offs many Puerto Ricans face when moving abroad. As the crowd continued to gather in La Parguera to count down the final moments of 2024, a presenter on stage tried to uplift the crowd: No matter what happens in Puerto Rico, tonight we celebrate the new year! The crowd cheered, but one voice punctuated the moment with a frustrated cry: Pal carajo, LUMA! or F**k LUMA! The sentiment was echoed by many, including Beatriz Velez, a 49-year-old from San German, who held little back when expressing her frustration to me. Its chaos, especially during New Years, she said. Can I be sincere? F**k LUMA. Despite the challenges, many Puerto Ricans refused to let the blackout dampen our spirits. Jeannette Montalvo, 69, from Guanica, went to extraordinary lengths to ensure she could celebrate. I came back home and warmed water bottles under the sun to shower because no power means no heater for me, she told me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Living alone, Montalvo relies heavily on electrical appliances, many of which have been damaged by recurring outages. Everything I own is electric. These constant outages have ruined my refrigerator, washing machine and stove, she said. But I wasnt going to stay home with no electricity its depressing. Emma Morales cooks asopao de camarones without power. Photo: Victoria Leandra Before midnight, my family went back home, lit candles and watched fireworks illuminate the sky, all while my mom made asopao de camarones over a gas stove, and we opened the windows to let in the cool night air, hoping the new year would bring back the power. The blackout served as a sobering reminder of the ongoing struggles Boricuas are forced to face struggles that, for many, have become a way of life. Weve mastered the art of survival, what many call resilience, turning these hardships into moments of community. Yet, this relentless strength should not be mistaken for acceptance of our broken system. With electricity rates set to rise in January, many are questioning the future. If things dont change, its complicated envisioning a future for myself here on the island, Ortiz said. Whether fueled by frustration, determination or sheer grit, one sentiment seems to unite us Boricuas: No matter what, we celebrate, holding on to hope that 2025 brings light and also change. A metro Atlanta fire department said no matter how small, it will rescue them all, including the fur babies. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Over the weekend, DeKalb County firefighters and Animal Control teamed up to save Jax, a six to eight-week-old puppy. According to officials, Jax fell 10 feet down a narrow four to six-inch sewer drain pipe. TRENDING STORIES: But, with determination, a utility rope, and a little peanut butter, fire crews safely rescued Jax. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fire department shared a photo of the pup surrounded by its rescuers on Facebook. Thank you to everyone involved for reminding us that every life mattersno matter how small, the DeKalb County Fire Rescue Department said. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered his government and a big bank to work with China on AI. Russia has been seeking tech alternatives post-Ukraine invasion due to Western sanctions. A Russia-China AI partnership could raise concerns over censorship, among other issues. Russian President Vladimir Putin continues seeking to expand his challenge of the West's order this time in tech. The Russian leader has ordered his government and Russian banking giant Sberbank to work with China on artificial intelligence, according to a December 30 post on the Kremlin's website. Putin instructed his government and Sberbank to "ensure further cooperation with the People's Republic of China in conducting technological research and development in the field of artificial intelligence," according to the Kremlin's post. It was published three weeks after Putin announced a BRICS AI Alliance Network. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin delegated Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and Sberbank CEO German Gref to lead the AI effort. A progress report is expected by April. Russia's building parallel systems to the West Putin's instructions came 34 months after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which triggered sweeping Western sanctions against his regime. The trade restrictions have hit Russia's access to financial payments technologies, prompting the country to seek substitutes in the form of parallel imports and domestic substitutes. Russia has also been setting up alternative systems to process payments transactions and ship sanctioned oil around the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, finding tech alternatives to Western products has not been easy. A former top Russian finance official told Reuters in September 2022 that Russia would be using second-grade tech for years and spending "huge resources" to recreate what already exists. Goods heavily impacted by Western sanctions include semiconductor chips, aviation parts, and medical products. Sberbank CEO Gref said in April 2023 that graphics cards for AI and supercomputers were the hardest to substitute. The US has restricted sales of advanced computer chips to Russia since 2022 and further tightened restrictions on third-party chip exports to Russia last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alexander Vedyakhin, the first deputy CEO of Sberbank, told Reuters last month that Russia was six to nine months behind the US and China in AI in a range of parameters. Vedyakhin told the news agency that Russia would focus on developing large language models rather than building massive data centers. A potential Russia-China partnership in AI could cause concerns beyond sanctions skirting. China's foray into AI is raising concerns about censorship in the country, where expression is tightly controlled. Chinese officials have tested Chinese large language models to ensure they embody "core socialist values," according to a Financial Times report in July. Read the original article on Business Insider The national airline of Qatar has announced that it will resume weekly flights to Syria 13 years after cancelling operations. Qatar Airways will offer three weekly flights between Qatar and Damascus, Syria, from Tuesday (7 January). In 2011, flights by the carrier to and from Damascus and Aleppo were cancelled amid Syrias civil war. The airline said that the decision to restart operations reflects the airlines commitment to fostering regional connectivity and supporting passenger demand a month after the overthrow of Bashar al-Assads government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Flights will depart Hamad International Airport, Doha, for Damascus International Airport, Syria. According to Qatar Airways, the airline will work closely with the authorities to ensure that all necessary safety, security, and operational standards are met ahead of the relaunch of the Syria flights. The flight path to the Syrian capital joins Qatar Airways network of over 170 destinations worldwide. Qatar Airways Group chief executive officer Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: We are pleased to resume flights to Damascus, a destination of great historical and cultural importance. This announcement underscores our dedication to fostering connectivity and facilitating travel for our passengers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tour operators are also considering relaunching Syria itineraries after the fall of the Assad regime. Dylan Harris, founder of Wigan-based Lupine Travel, ran a sold-out series of trips to Afghanistan last year and is hoping to resume tours to Syria as early as April 2025. The British adventure travel operator plans to launch holidays in Syria as soon as stability returns to the war-torn nation. The UK government has opened diplomatic contact with the Syrian rebels who toppled the dictator but still urges British citizens to leave the country as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) remains a proscribed terrorist organisation in the UK because of its past association with al-Qaida. For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calders podcast The Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City, as pictured September 26, 2023 (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent). Quality Schools Coalition, a Missouri education advocacy organization that backs charter school expansion, ceased operations at the end of 2024. The nonprofits executive director, Dean Johnson, told The Independent that the closure was spurred after a top donor did not renew Quality Schools Coalitions funding for 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was enough of an impact on us that it made more sense to sunset than try to move forward on what would have been very, very limited funding, he said. Quality Schools Coalition spent $5.9 million over its four years of work, largely in contributions to candidates on both sides of the aisle that share its views on education policy. During the 2024 primary election, the group spent over $100,000 on campaign ads. It really was depending on what issue we were working on, we found our supporters and allies in different places, Johnson said. He described the organizations priorities as a three-pronged approach with pushes for adequate funding, accountability and public school choice. This includes legislation that boosted funding for public schools, expanded charter schools and proposals to open public school boundaries to neighboring students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Passing charter school funding reforms is the pinnacle achievement in Quality School Coalitions final impact report. The law, which altered the formula for state aid to charter schools, added over $60 million to charters statewide. Johnson first advocated for the bill as co-founder and executive director of Crossroads Charter Schools, a network of charter schools in Kansas City. He also served as the board chair for the Missouri charter Public School Association. Johnson doesnt have definitive plans but looks to stay engaged in education advocacy. Ive learned a lot, so Im looking at different opportunities to stay involved in trying to improve education and other other areas in the nonprofit sector, he said. Rep. Marlene Terry, D-St. Louis County, listens in 2023 as the Missouri House debates a bill that would open some school districts borders (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent). State Rep. Marlene Terry, a Democrat from Bellefontaine Neighbors in St. Louis County, said the Quality Schools Coalition had the best interest of education and children in mind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They were very knowledgeable about educational issues, and they had a passion for education and children, she told The Independent. It has nothing to do with Democrat or Republican or anything like that. They had everything to do with children and education. Quality Schools Coalition spent about $28,000 campaigning for Terry in Augusts primary election. In the final impact report, the nonprofit praised Terrys decision to support a large education package that gave more funding to public schools, expanded charters and opened up eligibility for a program that gives state funds for private school tuition. According to its latest tax filing, the group gave most generously to political action committees supporting Republicans. In 2023, the coalition contributed its largest donation, $35,000, to a PAC supporting state Sen. Curtis Trent, a Republican from Springfield. Johnson said the Quality Schools Coalition supported Trents bill proposing a new method of school accountability, based largely on performance and growth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2022, its top donation was to Catalyst PAC, a committee largely contributing to Republicans but with some Democratic contributions. Quality Schools Coalitions revenue reached over $2.1 million that year. As a 501(c)(4), its funders are private. In addition to Johnson, who founded the nonprofit, the Quality Schools Coalition included former mayor of Kansas City Sly James and education consulting company founder Kathy Smith. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) A rabid raccoon located near the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk tested positive for rabies. According to the Norfolk Health District, the animal was found in a marshy area along the 3500 block of Granby Street on Dec. 29, right behind the zoo. The ill raccoon was euthanized and sent to a lab in Richmond. Test results returned on Jan. 2 showed the animal was positive for rabies. WAVY reached out to the Virginia Zoo to find out if any of its animals were known to be exposed to the rabid animal. According to lead veterinarian Dr. Mary Ceccolini, the raccoon did not come into contact with any person or animal on zoo property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She added that after the raccoon was found near an inlet of the Lafayette River, veterinary staff was notified. Zoo staff are trained to recognize and report concerning signs of disease in their resident animals and local wildlife. Dr. Ceccolini said all Zoo mammals are vaccinated against the rabies virus. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Montana rancher Arthur "Jack" Schubarth, 81, succeeded in cloning a wild Marco Polo argali sheep, the world's largest ovine species. That achievement cost him six months in jail. The U.S. Department of Justice's sentencing memo asserts that the "Court can take a step towards averting the next ecological disaster and protect the public from wide-ranging negative consequences." Did cloning a wild sheep really portend an ecological disaster or other wide-ranging negative consequences? Not at all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schubarth fell afoul of federal and state regulations that purport to protect rare wildlife from excessive exploitation. His son legally hunted argali sheep in 2013 in Kyrgyzstan, which issues a limited number of hunting permits annually. But his son neglected to fill out a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) wildlife import form that, among other things, forbids commercial use of lawfully hunted specimens. Tissue from the trophy ram was sent to a cloning facility that turned it into 165 argali embryos. Implanted into domestic ewes, only one came to full term, on May 15, 2017. Schubarth dubbed the cloned ram "Montana Mountain King" (MMK). (The world's first cloned mammal was a sheep named Dolly back in 1996.) Schubarth sold semen from MMK and bred him to other sheep with the goal of creating hybrids even bigger than wild argali. These big hybrid sheep could then be hunted on wild game ranches in the United States. Such domestic hunts could arguably reduce pressure on wild argali populations. Instead of celebrating his cloning breakthrough, however, the government is punishing Schubarth. There is no denying that Schubarth violated various laws when he set out to clone argali sheep. According to the U.S. Department of Justice's sentencing memo, Schubarth conspired with others to illegally import, clone, buy, breed, and sell argali sheep in violation of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), the Endangered Species Act (ESA), and Montana's ban on such sheep. He also falsified records related to the transport of prohibited species in violation of the Lacey Act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wild argali sheep, as noted in their CITES listing, are not presently threatened with extinction. A recent report finds that the wild argali population in Kyrgyzstan has increased since 2014 from about 15,000 to more than 21,000 (the total world population is around 75,000). Nevertheless, the FWS set aside the more lenient CITES designation in 2002 and listed argali sheep as "threatened" under the ESA, meaning that argali hunting trophies must obtain an import permit from the agency. Additionally, in 2014 Montana put argali sheep on its list of prohibited species. But as the sentencing memo notes, Schubarth petitioned the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) in early 2014 to allow argali sheep into the state. It was not until 10 years lateron February 10, 2024that the department got around to denying his petition. A month later Schubarth pleaded guilty to two felony wildlife crimes. The FWP justified its ban by asserting that argali sheep might transmit disease to wild and domestic sheep and/or escape to establish feral populations. Both fears are highly unlikely. First, a single sheep derived from a cloned embryo is probably not carrying exotic diseases. The Justice Department memo claims that disease concerns are "not exaggerated doomsday predictions." On what grounds? The memo notes that two sheep from Texas, later sold by Schubarth to a rancher in Nebraska, died of Johne's diseasea contagious bacterial infection with no known cure. Johne's disease is serious, and the interstate movement of animals that test positive for it is properly prohibited. But MMK was not the source of Johne's disease, which is already endemic in Montana. It is not likely that the two afflicted sheep acquired the disease at the Schubarth ranch, since the initial infection usually occurs early in life but manifests years later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Secondly, since MMK is a very expensive and closely monitored stud animal, it is preposterous to suggest that he could escape into the Rocky Mountains to frolic with local bighorn sheep. Schubarth did falsify transport records for shipping several MMK hybrids out of state and for bringing 74 and 43 sheep for insemination from Minnesota and Texas, respectivelybut the Justice Department makes no claims that the prohibited sheep species caused any actual ecological or veterinary harm. The U.S. attorney oddly asserted that "actions to create hybrid animals are as unnatural as they are illegal." Hybridizing argali sheep is not at all unnatural, since crossbreeding game sheep species is common in the industry. Some game ranches offer hunters the opportunity to bag Corsican sheep hybrids and Snow Urials (a cross between Texas Dall and Transcaspian Urial sheep). In fact, argali hybrids created during the 1970s are already hunted on numerous game ranches in Texas. The feds confiscated MMK and killed his hybridized offspring at the Schubarth ranch. The feds will now likely go after the breeders in Alabama, Arkansas, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, and West Virginia to whom Schubarth sold argali sperm and hybrids. The post A Rancher Cloned a Giant Sheep. The Feds Jailed Him for Allegedly Risking Ecological Disaster. appeared first on Reason.com. It was a glorious day on the Gulf Coast -- perfect for relaxing in the ocean. And then, for a former Massachusetts resident, it turned into a fight for survival. Elisabeth Foley, formerly of Mansfield, was vacationing with her family along the Florida Panhandle last June. As on previous days, she, her husband and their three teenaged children took to the water. All of a sudden I looked behind me and saw this thing that looked like a torpedo, Foley said. It was a huge mass. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was no torpedo surging towards her. It was a shark. Foley didnt know what it was at the time, but the approaching object was so ominous that she moved to get out of its way. I started kicking towards the shore and I immediately felt this searing pain, she said. Former Mass. resident loses arm in shark attack The shark had attacked her lower body, badly damaging tissue there. Foley, fearing it might attack her children, fought back. I remembered that if you punch a shark in the nose thats a vulnerable spot and it will go away, she said. I pulled back with my left hook and punched as hard as I could. The shark grabbed me by the hand and pulled me underwater. And I really thought I was going to die. And I prayed that God would spare my life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moments later, Foley resurfaced. But when she brought her left arm above the surface she saw four inches of exposed bone where her hand used to be. Family members and bystanders helped get Foley to shore and from there to a fire station, where she was airlifted to a nearby medical center. She was later transported to a hospital in Richmond, Virginia, close to where she lives. In the six months since the attack, Foley has undergone 25 surgeries, with at least five more pending. Foley was outfitted with a crude prosthesis that allows limited function. The hook-like structure opens and closes based on movements of her shoulder -- but it was supposed to be a temporary fix. Former Mass. resident loses arm in shark attack Foley was in line to receive a high-tech replacement arm that responds to electrical impulses from the body. It would allow her to engage in activities requiring fine motor function -- including returning to the job she held before the attack as a Starbucks barista. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was supposed to get the arm Christmas Eve, she said. It was going to be the best Christmas present ever. But two weeks before Christmas, Foley got the bad news: her insurance company refused to pay for the new arm -- saying it was medically unnecessary. Its also very expensive. Foley said the price tag is $73,000 -- more than her family can afford. So theyve set up a GoFundMe page in the hope the public might help. In the meantime, Foley said she is counting her blessings and she is grateful to be alive. My family is lucky that Im still around and able to do as much as I am able to do with the body that I have, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) Check your medicine cabinet: some Costco-brand cold and flu medicine has been recalled over a possible contamination. A recall notice on the warehouse chain explains LNK International has recalled certain Kirkland Severe Cold & Flu Plus Congestion over-the-counter caplets. The products, which contain day and night caplets, were accidentally released after initially being rejected due to a potential foreign material contamination. These GM pickups, SUVs are being recalled over problem that can increase crash risk Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The impacted products were sold between Oct. 30, 2024, and Nov. 30, 2024, and have the lot code P140082 beside the expiration date. LNK provided the below images of the medication. According to Costco, the over-the-counter medication was distributed to select locations in the Midwest and Southeast but no additional information was provided. Costco did not immediately respond to Nexstars request for comment. Individuals who have the recalled medicine are urged to return the item to Costco for a full refund. Those who purchased the impacted cold and flu caplets may receive a notice from LNK, seen here, regarding the recall. FDA says decongestant in many cold medicines doesnt work so what does? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more information on the recall, contact LNK International Inc. by phone at 1-800-426-9391 or by email at complaints-inquires@lnkintl.com. Nexstars Addy Bink contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) As the festive Carnival season begins, Acadiana pauses with somber reflection. At the Lafayette Consolidated Government, the American and Acadiana flags are being flown at half-staff, and the Lafayette Parish School System observes a moment of silence. For 30 days, the two flags outside LCG fly at half-staff in remembrance of former President Jimmy Carter who died at 100 on Dec. 29. Now, the flags serve to remember the victims of the New Years Day New Orleans terror attack as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lafayette Parish Schools Superintendent Francis Touchet said in a statement that words cannot convey our sorrow for the tragedy that struck our state claiming the lives of 14 people, including Lafayette native Tiger Bech. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KLFY Daily Digest The moment of silence observed throughout the Lafayette Parish School System on Monday symbolizes LPSSs support for fellow Louisianans during this trying time, according to LPSS Communications Specialist Tracy Wirtz. Let everybody know that we are thinking about and praying for all of the victims of that horrific attack, Wirtz said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FBI says the man responsible for New Years truck attack visited New Orleans twice before The school systems moment of silence resonates far beyond its walls, sending a powerful message to other states of reflection and unity. As you look down the list of victims, you have people not just from Louisiana but our neighboring states who came here to have a good time, Wirtz said. We want those families to know that we are grieving right alongside them. And they will continue to be in our thoughts and our prayers. Latest news Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLFY.com. Nebraska Education Commissioner Brian Maher announces the Westside district in Omaha as the third district to participate in a statewide pilot program for apprenticing paras who want to become teachers in March 2024. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner) LINCOLN A new state law could lead to greater efficiency in setting rules, regulations and safety standards for some of Nebraskas smallest school districts. Nebraska Education Commissioner Brian Maher reclassified or shifted roughly 80% of the states 245 school districts to new, smaller levels at the beginning of the year. State Sen. Dave Murman of Glenvil, right, talks with State Sen.-elect Victor Rountree of Bellevue at a legislative retreat in Kearney on Friday, Dec. 13, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner) State Sen. Dave Murman of Glenvil, the sponsor of Legislative Bill 1329 from 2024, said his legislation could lead to more efficiency in creating laws or regulations that include the districts with fewer than 5,000 total residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im just trying to make a more efficient way of addressing the needs of different sized districts and different demographics, Murman told the Nebraska Examiner. Firearms and school safety One of the immediate effects of the law gives school boards of smaller districts the option to authorize select school security personnel to carry firearms on school grounds. That change, also included in LB 1329, applied to private schools beginning last July. State Sen. Tom Brewer of north-central Nebraska introduced the measure last year for school districts of all sizes before working with Murman and other senators on a narrower approach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brewer had said smaller school districts are more often farther away from emergency services in crises, such as in a school shooting, when every second matters. He said those districts usually dont employ an armed school resource officer as many larger districts do. The State Board of Education in December adopted a model policy regarding the firearms law created in consultation with the Nebraska State Patrol. It suggests general guidelines for how a district can authorize who would be allowed to carry firearms, including proper storage and training and evaluation requirements. State Sen. Tom Brewer of north-central Nebraska. July 26, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner) In December, the Education Department distributed $10 million to more than 120 public school districts and 43 private schools to improve school safety and security infrastructure as part of a different law from State Sen. Lynne Walz of Fremont. Efficiency of state requirements Murman led LB 1329 as chair of the Education Committee and said during a 2024 hearing that district size can impact how new laws, rules or regulations are implemented. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For example, pre-K-12 enrollment in the current school year ranged from McPherson County Schools with 60 students to the Omaha Public Schools with more than 52,000 students, according to most recent Education Department tallies. Prior to Jan. 1, nearly every public school district was a Class III district, meaning the districts had up to 200,000 inhabitants, with the exception of the larger districts of Lincoln Public Schools (Class IV) and Omaha Public Schools (Class V), which has a separate public retirement system. Of 243 districts that had been in Class III, 193 were reclassified as Class I (up to 1,500 residents) or Class II (up to 5,000 residents). Murman said his aim was in part to better tailor regulatory requirements on some of the states smallest school districts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its just not logical to tell a district that is about 2% of the size of the other district that all of your staff need to complete this training program, Murman said as an example at his 2024 hearing. Lincoln East High School senior Cassidy Bell, center, is immediately flanked by State Sen. Danielle Conrad and her legislative aide Julia Holmquist after a hearing for a bill to require K-12 Nebraska schools to provide free menstrual products to students. Feb. 12, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner) The new classifications could potentially factor into ongoing discussions to reduce unfunded or underfunded mandates on K-12 schools as goals to reduce local reliance on property taxes. Murman said hes not looking to consolidate or change school district boundaries, just to ensure the system makes a little more sense. If were better equipped to be able to classify schools, we will be better equipped to make rules that fit each districts needs, rather than a nearly one-size-fits-all approach, Murman said. Other 2025 laws, so far Heres a breakdown of some other education-related laws set to take effect later in 2025: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Legislature returns Wednesday. Legislative proposals can be introduced in the first 10 days. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The Combat Information Center (CIC) is the nerve center and tactical brain of a U.S. Navy surface combatant. These high-tech floating command centers and their watchstanders have been put to the test over the last year, unlike any other time in history, as missile and drone barrages from Houthi rebels in Yemen have plagued the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. With this in mind, TWZ spoke with multiple surface warfare officers (SWOs) about the realities sailors face when fighting their ship from within the CIC, including what factors come into play, what mistakes can arise during tense, time sensitive engagements, and the effects of being on patrol in a free-fire zone for months on end. Cocooned within the ship, amongst the dimly lit CIC packed with glowing screens, are between 10 and 20 sailors on watch at any given time. Led by a tactical action officer (TAO), they track all threats and movements in the region around the ship. A CICs air warfare watchstanders might flag an inbound Houthi missile and approve firing orders to other ship combat systems, while others are scanning the rest of the sky, correlating electronic warfare signals, tracking other surface vessels and watching out for submarines. CICs also keep in constant communication with other Navy vessels and aircraft in the area via various datalink systems, sharing sensor data and coordinating actions. The CIC works closely with the bridge to best move the ship to its most survivable or advantageous position at any given time as well. The combat information center (CIC) aboard a modernized U.S. Navy cruiser. (U.S. Navy) The things that make the environment really busy are just trying to manage threats, trying to manage traffic, trying to manage the general environment, Bradley Martin, a retired surface warfare officer who spent two-thirds of his career at sea, told TWZ. Its designed to handle a lot of information and handle processing and display and dissemination. But like anywhere, when a lot of things are going on, it takes a lot of concentration to keep things straight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the slew of information being passed back and forth in the CIC, particularly in a cruiser serving as the air defense commander for a carrier strike group, the CIC referred to as combat in the surface fleet would appear calm to an outsider who walked into the space, according to a retired Navy cruiser captain who spoke with TWZ on condition of anonymity to share his assessment. But the seeming tranquility of sailors on computers or talking into headsets belies the stakes of the CICs work. You have external comms coming from the aircraft carrier, from the planes, he said. You have someone in combat typically talking to the planes themselves, checking in and checking out. Youve got internal communications, everybodys got a headset on, theyve typically got one circuit in one ear and another circuit in the other. But these days, CIC watchstanders have been tested in unprecedented ways every day in the Red Sea over the past year, these SWOs tell TWZ. Sailors assigned to the Navy destroyer USS Carney (DDG-64) at work inside the ships combat information center in July 2024. (U.S. Navy) As the amount of aircraft and the threat of actually taking a hit increases, then the pucker factor and the intensity increases as well, the retired captain said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Red Sea fight has required endless vigilance and honed attention from CICs the entire time their ship is operating in those waters, according to an active-duty SWO who requested anonymity to share his personal thoughts. You run that kind of high-stress scenario from the moment you enter the theater until you leave if youre operating in the Red Sea, the active-duty SWO told TWZ. Every other test since Operation Iraqi Freedom has been a test of our ability to support strikes into other places. This is the first time weve had a sustained conventional threat against open water shipping. Since October 2023, Navy destroyers have been shooting down aerial drones and missiles, as well as sinking drone boats, launched by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, sometimes at a near-daily clip. You can read about the Houthis arsenal being brought to bear against shipping around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait here. But even as CICs track, identify and at times engage with a variety of objects popping up on their sensors, system breakdowns and inexperienced sailors hinder effective CIC operations even in peaceful waters, raising the stakes of the current Red Sea mission and the consequences of mistakes. As an investigation into how the Navy cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG-64) came to shoot down a F/A-18 Super Hornet jet over the Red Sea last month continues, the cruisers CIC was likely tracking a bevy of airborne objects simultaneously. TWZ previously reported that the shootdown occurred during a sustained Houthi drone and missile attack targeting the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) carrier strike group. Cruisers serve as the air defense headquarters within such strike groups. A view of flight operations aboard the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) on Dec. 18, 2024. (U.S. Navy) With regard to the Gettysburg friendly-fire incident, Martin said they were dealing with a situation where there were a lot of aircraft in the sky, along with surface threats, all of which created a complicated air defense environment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whether or not somebody might have made a serious mistake with the Gettysburg, we dont know what set of systems or decisions [were made], or what might have happened, Martin said. Theyre busy and dealing with some ambiguous situations, situations unlike what the Navy has dealt with in a long time. The SWOs who spoke with TWZ said that Navy CICs in the Red Sea deserve credit for executing so well. These ships over the last year have done a fairly remarkable number of engagements, far more than the Navy had done in the previous 50 years, Martin said. And they are by and large handling those correctly. Still, the active-duty SWO said the Houthi aerial drone threat adds a major layer of complexity for the CICs to manage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When a missile gets fired, I know what that is, its coming out of Yemen, moving at this speed, blast it out of the sky, he said. All these drones just act like airplanes, and the problem is airplanes can be good or bad, and its hard to tell the difference. I dont envy their position, the active-duty SWO said of CIC teams in the Red Sea. It sounds miserable. Its not black and white, and you have a bunch of gray zone contacts. Its pretty damn complicated, and it requires a very high level of cognitive attention to detail, and alertness, the retired cruiser captain noted. Adding to the Red Sea stress is the fact that the systems upon which a CIC relies regularly go down, according to an active-duty, former destroyer commander who requested anonymity to speak frankly. Thats compounded by the fact that, while a CIC watch team may spend months training up together, some of those sailors will never deploy due to them having to head to a new assignment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a miracle if you can train the same team that goes from basic phase to advanced phase to deployment, the former destroyer skipper said. The guided-missile destroyer USS Gravely (DDG-107) launches Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles (TLAM) in January 2024 in the Red Sea. (U.S. Navy) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watching from afar, the former destroyer CO fears that a mix of inexperienced CIC sailors and the kind of regular system outages that plague Navy warships could at any time cause things to kind of break down pretty quick in the Red Sea, despite the winning track record so far. While the Houthis might not be the most advanced threat, it does not take much for a warships radar or other systems to crash, he said, leaving the vessel without critical information and vulnerable. The nature of the Houthi fight makes it harder to decipher objects on the radar as well, the officer said. In such instances, the TAO will often do a hook and look, locking onto an airborne object that pops up on radar and then working to identify it. If I had hooked an unknown track that was at 10,000 feet going 340 knots in the direction of the carrier, my first thought is thats an F-18, and other ship systems would soon confirm that, the former destroyer CO said. But in the Red Sea, an enemy aerial drone may get tracked at the same bearing and range, but perhaps at a lower altitude than the friendly jet, which can sometimes cause watchstanders or radar systems to swap tracks, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So we have people trained to then hook and look and verify and interrogate again, the former destroyer CO said. When youre doing all of that with a couple of aircraft, thats hard. If youre doing it with, like, 15 aircraft, its really hard. If youre doing that with 15 aircraft, missiles and [air drones], its very, very hard. The U.S. Navy destroyer USS Carney (DDG-64) fires a missile to intercept a Houthi barrage in October 2023. (U.S. Navy) CICs also regularly struggle with leaders, or long lines on a radar that look like something speeding at 780 knots toward the ship, only for it to suddenly disappear. And while a warships Aegis Combat System is designed to help clear some of that clutter, the former destroyer CO said CIC watchstanders risk becoming complacent with leaders. Sometimes youll drop clutter so routinely that you could end up dropping a missile, he said. Theres specific parameters to set the ship to, even in the Red Sea, but you have to go through that process to make sure that your clutter mapping and your systems configuration is accurate to that exact location with the amount of sand thats in the air, deducting for the temperature and the environment and atmosphere and everything else. More tracks and confusion, and then you start throwing in some of those long leaders of clutter, because its the Red Sea, full of sand and shit, the former destroyer CO added. Youre like, well, I hope thats clutter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, CIC sailors are working to coordinate object assessments with other strike group CICs and the air defense commander, a task made harder by the Red Seas busy skies. So, track number 1234, is F/A-18 friendly, or track number 1234 is hostile, [aerial drone], cruise missile, whatever that is, the former destroyer CO explained. But if theyre doing that for every one of the inbound threats, then you have a lot of track coordination thats going on in the background in a very short amount of time. That has to be correct, because they can force order something in the [Link 16 communications] system that will make it that thing, regardless of somebody disagreeing with it or not. A supporter of Yemens Iran-backed Houthi rebels fields a diorama of a U.S. warship under a Houthi missile during a demonstration in the capital Sanaa on Dec. 6, 2024. (Mohammed Hamoud/Getty Images) The former destroyer CO said he feels its lucky that no Navy ships have been hit so far in the Red Sea, but he suspects the American public are going to lose their minds if a destroyer gets hit. At some point, sailors are going to get killed, and I feel like it doesnt take much, he said. Youve got a bad interface control, system casualty, fog of war, clutter, or your missile malfunctions, your [Phalanx Close-In Weapons System] wasnt aligned properly, or something like that. The Phalanx Close-In Weapons System (CIWS). (U.S. Navy) Despite the efforts of the Navy warships and their CICs in the Red Sea, the former destroyer CO also said he thinks the Houthis tactics will improve, as will their weapons, if other nations opt to provide them with better munitions. While Iran has largely supplied the Houthis thus far, reports surfaced last year that Russia was seeking to arm the Houthis with more-advanced cruise missiles. A gunners mate stands watch on the optical sighting system in the combat information center aboard the Navy destroyer USS Gravely (DDG-107) while transiting the Bab al-Mandeb Strait on Feb. 19, 2024. (U.S. Navy) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre doing everything they possibly can to try and kill Americans, he said. At the end of the day, I think theres a lot of luck involved in this right now, to be right and perfect 24/7. When and how the Red Sea battle will end remains to be seen. Until then, U.S. sailors standing watch in the CICs will continue to deal with a hostile, crowded and frenetic combat environment, with no shortage of objects to track and threats to engage. Email the author: geoff@twz.com After nearly 14 months of attacks by Houthi militants, the Red Sea appears no closer to being free of disruption than it did when top ocean carriers elected to avoid the waterway on their journeys. Although the Red Sea crisis has brought chaos to the shipping industry and global supply chains at large in the form of lengthier delivery times, more port congestion and an increase in carbon emissions, the diversions may have inadvertently helped alleviate another potential problemovercapacity. More from Sourcing Journal Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to data from container shipping research tool and database Alphaliner, the global container fleet increased by 10.6 percent during the past 12 months, with almost 3 million 20-foot equivalent (TEUs) of slots added to the fleet. Fifty-nine percent, or 1.76 million TEUs, of this extra capacity was absorbed by the Asia-to-Europe trade, where many additional ships were needed as diversions around southern Africas Cape of Good Hope persisted. Over the past year, fleet growth dedicated to that trade lane has increased 31 percent, with some carriers still awaiting the delivery of more newbuildings to fill the final gaps in their Asia-to-Europe schedules. However, average weekly TEU capacity offered on the Asia-to-Europe route has risen by a much smaller percentage8.8 percentas the longer routes kept soaking up space on the vessels, indicating that the new slots had been filling up quickly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The year 2024 will be remembered in liner shipping circles as the (first) year of the Red Sea crisis, just as 2021 and 2022 are now commonly referred to as the lucrative Covid-19 years, Alphaliner said in a post on LinkedIn. While many commentators were warning of potential overcapacity in 2024, finally the Cape diversions absorbed so much capacity that the industry terminated the year with almost no idle tonnage (just 0.6 percent of the total container ship fleet was deemed commercially inactive). Overcapacity had been a concern at the start of 2024 due to container shipping firms hefty order book of vessels in the years after global supply chain congestion at sea reached then-unprecedented levels. But fast forward to today, and even Maersks CEO has downplayed the idea that there would be too many ships at sea in 2025. Our capacity has increased, but this extra capacity has been absorbed in longer sailing distances, said Maersks Vincent Clerc in an Oct. 31 earnings call. We simply did not have the amount of slack capacity that maybe some of our competitors had to cater for that unexpected strong demand on top of long sailing routes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats not to say that there still isnt caution in the industry. In a Nov. 20 earnings call, ZIM chief financial officer Xavier Destriau said the risk of oversupply continues to exist, given the companys recent growth in order book-to-fleet ratio to 25.5 percent. Another factor in shippings favor is its not an if, its a matter of when older ships will be scrapped or retired, Destriau said. He also noted that ships in 2024 are sailing at 16.5 knots on average to handle the longer routes, up from 15.5 knots in 2023. The faster speed is an indicator that ships would be able to cope with a surge of required capacity, if necessary. That one knot difference is having a significant effect on capacity absorption, said Destriau. So when the route around via the Suez reopens, all those drivers will come in also to potentially mitigate the risk or the effect of this influx of capacity. Asia-to-Europe rates stabilize amid U.S. concerns While container freight rates for cargo entering the U.S. have escalated over the past month as importers have front-loaded more goods ahead of a possible East and Gulf Coast port strike and potential tariffs by the incoming Trump administration, the same cannot be said for rates on the Asia-to-Europe trade lane even as the Red Sea crisis endures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In fact, the rates have largely held steady since early December. As of Thursday, container prices on the Shanghai-to-Genoa route were flat to the week prior, according to the Drewry World Container Index (WCI), at $5,420 per 40-foot container. Compared to four weeks ago, these containers are down 1 percent from $5,496 on average. The Shanghai-to-Rotterdam trade lane saw a slight weekly decline of 1 percent to $4,774 on average, and is flat from Dec. 5s $4,775 per container. In the event that the Red Sea crisis were to end, freight rates would likely plummet as ships returned to their normal routes, according to Flexport CEO Ryan Petersen, who told Bloomberg Surveillance Monday that it would instantly bring the price of ocean freight down by two-thirds, maybe more. American democracy and society have been sick for a long time. Donald Trumps election to the White House in 2016 was a symptom and not the cause of these deep problems. There is extreme income inequality and the gangster capitalist regime that profits from it, racism and white supremacy, a growing lack of faith in democracy and other governing institutions such as the news media and the elites more broadly, widespread social atomization and loneliness, collective exhaustion and lack of sleep, anti-intellectualism, mass death and trauma from the COVID pandemic, a broken educational system, a media culture of spectacle and distraction and an overall sense that a return to normal is not that great and playing by the rules and working hard to achieve the American Dream was a cruel joke and has been for a very long time. Too many political observers especially the institutionalists and centrists incorrectly convinced themselves that Trumps first victory was an acute aberration, in what was fundamentally a sound democracy that had widespread support and legitimacy among the American people. These supposed experts willfully repeated that same error years later, because to admit they were catastrophically wrong would be a narcissistic injury both to them personally but also to the larger political class that has given them much of their identity and social capital. With Trump's 2024 victory over the Democrats, Trump and the MAGAfied Republicans take control of the presidency and both chambers of Congress. Trump and the MAGA movement also expanded their base of populist support in the form of a rainbow coalition of malice, rage and resentment, creating what could potentially be a realigning political force in American politics that will dominate for years if not decades to come. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donald Trump has promised to be a dictator on day one of his presidency. All the evidence points to Trump immediately following through on his autocratic vision and what he and his agents describe as a shock and awe campaign against the enemies within and the poison in the blood of the nation. Per Trump and his agents own words and meaning, this will likely be a very bloody" and "traumatic" story. It is true that President Biden achieved many great policy successes for the American people in terms of the economy, the social safety net, infrastructure and manufacturing, defeating the COVID pandemic, restoring the countrys respect and influence abroad and broadly trying to remedy the worst of the great damage caused by Donald Trump and the MAGA Republicans and the larger antidemocracy movement. But Biden and the Democrats were defeated in the 2024 election because they failed to effectively and consistently communicate those successes to the American people. In all, President Bidens time in the White House will, in the mid to far future, likely be looked back upon as some interregnum and intervening years in the larger Trumpocene. In many ways, the Biden administration and what it embodied was like a beloved relative or favorite pet that is very ill and the family convinces themselves that because today (or the last few weeks of months) has seen improvement things will somehow miraculously be fine in the end. As the world saw on Election Day, that is not what usually happens in the real world. If American democracy and society were sick and ailing before, Trumps return to power in a few weeks may be terminal. Even more tragically, this is the poison that the American people chose for themselves: Donald Trump won the Electoral College and the popular vote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On what appears to be Americas now semi-permanent democracy crisis and state of emergency, Steven Levitsky, who is the author of numerous books including How Democracies Die and Tyranny of the Minority: Why American Democracy Reached the Breaking Point, told MSNBCs Chris Hayes during a recent interview that, Ive been trying to think of a happy ending and its getting harder and harder." The problem is, as I mentioned earlier, relatively ending well has often emerged after a period of really bottoming out. You really see political elites sort of doing the right thing after really horrible experiences of authoritarianism, thinking about places like Chile and Uruguay, Spain and Portugal and South Korea too. I think, there will be an election in 2028. Im not as pessimistic as some. I dont think were sliding into fascism. I think theres a very good chance that the Democratic Party wins the 2028 election, but its not clear how we rebuild a consensus in favor of basic small D democratic politics. Ultimately, Donald Trump and MAGAs repeat ascendance to power reflects how American democracy and society in 2025 exist in a state of competitive authoritarianism and what is, in many ways, a shambling corpse. In an attempt to make better sense of our collective emotions (and tumult and upset) in these weeks before Trumps return to power, reflect on the previous year and the election, and what may come next, I recently spoke to a range of experts. Rick Wilson is a co-founder of The Lincoln Project and a former leading Republican strategist. He is the author of two books, "Everything Trump Touches Dies" and "Running Against the Devil: A Plot to Save America from Trump - and Democrats from Themselves." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Look, were obviously disappointed with the outcome of the election, but we always knew it would be close. This country remains very evenly split and Trump doesnt have nearly the mandate that his minions are trying to portray. The House of Representatives is as close as it gets and has a weak Speaker whos completely unable to manage the chaos caucus. It was a chaotic year with more moving parts than any election in modern history and we knew all along it was a toss-up. But while we lost an election, we werent wrong about the threat Trump poses and we arent wrong about the chaos thats coming. Look at the end-of-the-year budget battle where Trump and Musk threw a wrench into the works at the last second without any regard for the consequences. As Inauguration Day grows closer, we are gearing up for another fight and plan to take it to Trump every single day. We will contest his insane cabinet picks and continue to tell the world when the emperors not wearing any pants. We refuse to bow down to an undemocratic administration. The future of the nation remains at stake. We already see Trump trying to silence the media and push corporations into not opposing his plans. Someone needs to step into the void and rally the opposition. As for what comes next, Trump meant what he said on the campaign trail and hes following through. Hes looking to implement tariffs that will hammer the middle class, will try to deport millions of people by putting the military on American streets and will retreat from the world leaving dictators like Putin to run roughshod all over Europe. Thats the nightmare scenario. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But one constant remains Trump cannot help himself. Hes an agent of chaos who has to inject himself into every story, whether its helpful or not. He nearly derailed the budget to cause a shutdown and weakened Johnson even more. He empowered Musk and is now upset hes stealing the spotlight and his influence. And as always, I remain hopeful that the American people will see the terrible consequences and push back to correct his oversteps. Jennifer Mercieca is a historian of American political rhetoric. She is a professor in the Department of Communication and Journalism at Texas A&M University and author of several books, including "Demagogue for President: The Rhetorical Genius of Donald Trump." It's hard for me to look back on 2024 without feeling nihilism nothing mattered. The truth about Trump didn't matter. The threat that Trump poses to the nation and the world didn't matter. The legacy media didn't matter. The Harris campaign didn't matter. If none of those things matter, then what are we even doing talking about it who is this for, who will read it and will they care? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I've been thinking a lot of a line that Jean Baudrillard wrote in "The Ecstasy of Communication": "Let us be Stoics: if the world is fatal, let us be more fatal than it. If it is indifferent, let us be more indifferent. We must conquer the world and seduce it through an indifference that is at least equal to the world's. To counter the acceleration of networks and circuits the world will seek slowness, inertia." Let us be Stoics. If the nation is indifferent to the threats to democracy, let us be more indifferent. They'll miss democracy when it's gone. Trump's return is still surprising. It's understandable. It was predictable. But it's still surprising to me that power-mad anti-democratic forces succeeded in taking over the nation and electing the most dangerous person in America as president. Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course. I'm looking at Trump assuming office in 2025 with dread, calling to mind what Daniel Webster said about Andrew Jackson taking office in 1829. "His friends have no common principle they are held together by no common tie. My opinion is that when he comes, he will bring a breeze with him. Which way it will blow, I cannot tell." Though, unlike Jackson in 1829, we have a pretty good idea of what kind of "breeze" Trump will bring with him. My goal is to face 2025 realistically. I hope to focus on the things that I can do to help defend democracy in America mostly by staying in my lane and explaining anti-democratic rhetorical tricks. And I refuse to be trolled. It is what it is. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I believe Trump when he says he's going to be a dictator on day one. I do not believe Trump when he says that he'll only be a dictator on day one. No one assumes dictatorial power and then gives it up. Good luck to us all! David Pepper is a lawyer, writer, political activist and former elected official. His new book is "Saving Democracy: A User's Manual for Every American." I enter the New Year knowing that Trump and his allies promises pose many risks to our nation, the democracy weve known, our communities and the lives of countless Americans. So, clear-eyed about these risks, of course, I worry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, with weeks passed since the election, the word that best describes my current mood is resolute." Why? Because I know that people in this country have overcome worse than what we must overcome now waging their battle for democracy from far more perilous ground than where most of us stand today. Still, they overcame it all. So can we. Another lesson from past periods of democratic backsliding is that how we react now shapes the extent of the damage done by the forces subverting democracy and the rule of law. There will be damage either way. But history tells us that the risk of anti-democratic moments like this is that they can set in for long periods of time lifetimes, even. Or they can be overcome in far shorter periods of time. So, what we do in the coming days, weeks and months will likely determine if we spend the rest of our lives feeling the worry we feel now, or if we are able to overcome our challenges far sooner than that. I resolve to make it the latter. One reason the passage of time amid these dark moments is dangerous is because of how quickly the collective memory of Americans evolves and can fade entirely. This underscores an especially weighty responsibility on those of us of a certain age: to preserve and pass on our lived memories of how liberal (the classic definition of the word), representative democracy operates in its best days. We must not allow the current times to settle in as the new normal as memories of better times disappear. We must also stay resolute because Trump and his minions will act quickly. They will throw as much at the country at once as they can. Test boundaries and barriers. Offend our sensibilities. And this will happen on multiple fronts to keep us occupied and distracted, despondent and in chaos. And that means the coming months are key. How we respond NOW is key. Every win early win matters. Finally, there is the inevitability that although they won narrowly, the right will act as if they won with an overwhelming mandate. They are already framing the election that way and using that big mandate to justify everything so far. This means they will overreach. That overreach will include dangerous and disturbing actions. It will involve policies that harm the lives and well-being of everyday Americans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And, importantly, it will involve decisions that prove to be politically toxic at the moment, or over time. This overreach after a very close election presents a near-term opportunity. We must seize it. To use another phrase they will break it; we must ensure they own it. And to do so, the timing works in our favor. Think of it this way the next four years are the second Trump term. And the inevitable failures of his overreaching policies, incompetence and toxic and divisive politics will become clear amid the build-up to the midterm of Trumps second term. And we all know what happens in the midterms of second terms, right? 2006.2014Now.2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its the midterm of Trumps second term. His assurance that he knew nothing about Project 2025 will have proven to be a lie; those and other toxic policies will have hurt everyday Americans by the millions; his entire approach will have offended a wide swath of Americans; his extremism will motivate others who sat out this election, or didnt believe the worst of our warnings. But that will only happen if we are on offense and engaging Americans everywhere to see it all and respond. So thats where I am. Resolute. To keep going. WHEATON, Ill. (WGN) A registered sex offender from Chicago was denied pre-trial release in the western suburbs Sunday after his first court appearance following charges that include solicitation of a minor. Derrick Willman, a 58-year-old resident of the Loop in the heart of the city, was denied pre-trial release after associate judge Joshua Dieden granted a motion put forward by the state. Derrick Willman, 58, of Chicago. (Courtesy: DuPage County States Attorneys Office) Willman is accused of soliciting and attempting to meet whom he thought was a 13-year-old girl for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts, according to a press release from the DuPage County States Attorneys Office (DCSAO). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Willman was charged with one count of Indecent Solicitation of a Child-Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse (Class 3 Felony), one count of Traveling to Meet a Minor (Class 3 Felony), one count of Child Sex Offender Communicate Through the Internet (Class 4 Felony) and one count of Grooming (Class 4 Felony) after his first appearance in court Friday afternoon. DCSAO officials said the Downers Grove Police Departments (DGPD) went about monitoring the area for sexual predators through posing as a 13-year-old girl in a teen online chatroom named Melissa. DGPD officers posing as Melissa were allegedly contacted by an individual with the username of ChiGuy, who was later determined by police to be Willman. DGPD further alleged that Melissa told Willman that she is in the eighth grade but despite that, Willman still told her he wanted to meet. It is further alleged during their conversations that Willman asked Melissa the question u want to make love? and sent other messages of a sexual nature to Melissa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Willman sent a photo of himself, law enforcement officials learned he is required to register as a sexual predator for life in connection to a 2023 felony case in Minnesota where Willman was charged with Soliciting a Child in Person or Via Computer or Internet. He is serving five years of probation in this case. DGPD alleged that Melissa and Willman arranged to meet Tuesday evening at a Downers Grove hotel and after waiting in the parking lot for an hour, Willman left without going into the hotel. DGPD then conducted a traffic stop where they took him into custody. While this case did not involve a 13-year-old girl, it serves as a reminder to us all how easy it can be for predators, as alleged in this case, to reach our children without their parents knowledge, DuPage County States Attorney Robert Berlin said. I encourage parents to talk to their children about Internet safety and to instruct their children to be cautious when communicating with others via Internet chatrooms or other online platforms. Willmans next court appearance is scheduled for Jan. 27, 2025, in front of Judge Joseph Bugos. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. An arrest has been made in the case of a family in Brazil who were poisoned on Christmas Eve after eating a cake containing arsenic. Three people died and three others were hospitalized after the incident, which occurred in the city of Torres, in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul. At a press conference Monday, the Civil Police of Rio Grande do Sul confirmed that the daughter-in-law of one the victims is the main suspect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to police, there were seven people in the room when the cake was served. One person did not eat the cake, but the other six who did were all hospitalized. Three women, sisters Maida and Neuza, and Neuzas daughter Tatiana, later died. The suspect, arrested Sunday, is the daughter-in-law of Zeli dos Anjos, 60, who made the cake, according to CNN Brasil. Police told CNN the suspect had disagreements with her family for more than two decades. She has been charged with triple homicide as well as three attempted homicides. Dos Anjos is currently in the ICU, according to police, along with her 10-year-old great-nephew. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said large amounts of arsenic were registered in the bodies of the three women who died, with expert analysis showing high levels in their urine and stomach samples. The arsenic levels in these samples are so high that they are considered toxic and lethal. And that explains the cause of death, Marguet Mittmann, director general of the General Institute of Expertise, a public security body working with the police, said at the press conference. The victim whose body contained the lowest concentration of arsenic still registered 80 times the amount permitted in food and the victim with the highest concentration had 350 times the permitted amount. These concentrations are so high that its impossible to consider it a natural contamination, added Mittmann. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police also confirmed that the poison in the cake was mixed into the flour used in its preparation, ruling out the possibility of food poisoning. They said analysis of samples revealed that the largest amount of arsenic found in the flour used to make the cake was 2,700 times higher than the permitted limit, leading experts to conclude that the flour was the source of the contamination. CNNs Michael Rios and Ju Faddul contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com The remains of a Marine killed in World War II were identified and are scheduled to be laid to rest Tuesday, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced in a news release last week. Sgt. Robert F. Van Heck, of Chicago, Illinois, was 25 years old in 1943 when he was killed during the U.S. campaign in the Pacific, the agency reported. He was a member of the 2nd Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force, which saw heavy combat over several days of fighting against the Japanese military on an atoll of the Gilbert Islands located in the South-Central Pacific. Van Heck's remains were accounted for on April 13, 2023, the agency said, using anthropological and DNA analysis. He will be buried Jan. 7 in Hillside, Illinois, a small suburb of Chicago, the agency said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read Next: Air Force Veteran Tells the Story of Hidden Health Risks at Nevada Test Site In November 1943, Marines were facing heavy Japanese resistance on the island of Betio, part of the Tarawa Atoll in the Gilbert Island chain. After days of fighting, roughly 1,000 Marines and sailors were killed and thousands more were wounded, leaving the Japanese forces "virtually annihilated," the DPAA said. The agency said that roughly 350 service members' remains are still unaccounted for from the battle. CBS News reported that Van Heck sent a letter home to his family, which was later published in a newspaper shared with the outlet by U.S. officials. Van Heck said: "Don't count on me coming home this spring as we had planned." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the clipping, his family received a telegram announcing Van Heck's death only half an hour after they read that letter. Three years after the campaign in the Gilbert Islands, the 604th Quartermaster Graves Registration Company consolidated the American remains recovered from the Tarawa Atoll and sent them to Hawaii for analysis, the DPAA said. Nearly half of the known casualties were never located, the agency said, and those who could not be identified were buried anonymously at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Hawaii. In 2017 -- nearly 75 years after the conflict -- DPAA disinterred "Tarawa Unknown X-265," the code Van Heck's remains were labeled as before his identification. "A rosette will be placed next to his name to indicate he has been accounted for," the DPAA said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scientists with the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System used something called mitochondrial DNA, or mtDNA, to analyze those remains -- a type of genetic analysis used in forensic science. According to an online obituary, Van Heck served as an amphibian tractor crewman during the assault on Betio. It said that his vehicle was an LVT-1, an amphibious landing vehicle, named "Wabbit Twacks" and painted with the number "13 " to "ward off bad luck." Many of the approximately 350 unaccounted for troops from Tarawa were Marines killed on the first day, according to the DPAA, likely from intense artillery and machine-gun fire while the amphibious assault was ongoing. In 2016, the DPAA expanded efforts to identify remains from the battle, disinterring nearly 100 caskets. Since the renewal of recovery efforts in the 1970s, the DPAA said, nearly 1,000 Americans killed in World War II have been identified and returned home. The agency said that there are still 71,989 troops who served in that conflict unaccounted for. Related: Two WWII Marines Accounted For TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) Florida Rep. Susan Valdes hosted her second annual giveaway at ZooTampa at Lowry Park on Saturday. Its in honor of Three Kings Day, which commemorates the Three Wise Men going to baby Jesus with gifts. There were enough backpacks, filled with school supplies, for 150 children who registered, according to a news release. Children were also able to receive toys during the family-fun event. H1-B visa program controversy; Florida condo safety inspection deadline passes | Battleground Florida Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Valdes has been in the headlines lately after switching political parties and helping the GOP expand its supermajority in the Florida House. Following her switch, she was named number 2 lawmaker in the states powerful budget committee. During the event, Valdes spoke about what voters can expect from her after winner her last term in the state house as a democrat but switching to republican. Your representative, Susan Valdess values and morals has not changed. Im going to work on behalf of the residents of District 64 as hard as ever, Valdes said. She also said that she was elected to serve families, just like she did during Saturdays event. She encouraged constituents to call her office if they have any questions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Justin Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday after nearly a decade as Canadian prime minister, bowing to rising discontent over his leadership and growing turmoil within his government. Here are the runners and riders to replace him as the head of the Liberal Party. The former deputy prime minister and minister for finance was a long time ally of Mr Trudeau but broke ranks with him over his handling of the economy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 56-year-old Toronto MP resigned in December, hastening Mr Trudeaus departure. In a resignation letter penned against the backdrop of tariff threats from Donald Trump, Ms Freeland said Canada could not afford political gimmicks such as sending C$250 (139.30) cheque to every Canadian earning less than C$150,000 and plans for a holiday tax break on essential items. Instead, Ms Freeland called for a determined effort to fight for capital and investment and the jobs they bring in the face of America First economic nationalism. That means working in good faith and humility with the premiers of the provinces and territories of our great and diverse country, and building a true Team Canada response, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Harvard and Oxford-educated politician orchestrated Canadas financial response to the Covid pandemic as the nations first female minister of finance. In her former role as minister for foreign affairs, Ms Freeland oversaw the renegotiation of a free trade deal between Canada and the US and Mexico. The 56-year-old was a journalist for the Financial Times, The Globe and the Mail and Reuters before entering politics. In 2019, Globe and Mail described her as either the last, best hope for the liberal world order or an out-of-touch idealist. Mr Trump has described Ms Freeland as totally toxic. The 59-year-old Harvard and Oxford graduate has served as head of both the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, and is highly thought of by Mr Trudeau, who had sought to appoint him to his cabinet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He would be an outstanding addition at a time when Canadians need good people to step up in politics, Mr Trudeau said in July 2024. He has never held public office but announced he will be considering the decision closely over the coming days, adding that he felt encouraged and honoured by the support he was already garnering from Liberals across Canada. Mr Carney, who is also chairman of the board of Bloomberg and UN special envoy for climate action and finance, served as governor of the Canadian central bank from 2008 to 2013 and spent seven years on Threadneedle Street between 2013 and 2020. Once coined the rockstar central banker, Mr Carney has advocated for a values-led economy and mission oriented capitalism, calling on the financial system to head off challenges such as climate change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was branded the architect of Project Fear by Brexit supporters after warning that leaving the EU would stoke inflation, stem growth and weaken the pound. Theres no joy in saying: well, we told you so because people are having to live with that reality, he told The Telegraph in 2023. In Canada, Mr Carney has championed some controversial Liberal policies such as the federal carbon tax policy, the partys climate policy which critics argue is a financial burden on the public. Ms Joly represents the Montreal area and was appointed minister of foreign affairs in October 2021. An Oxford graduate, Ms Joly assumed her role as Russia began amassing troops on the border of Ukraine. She visited the country to underscore Canadas support, just one month before Vladimir Putin ordered his invasion in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Joly has been at the forefront of diplomatic crises, such as the alleged assassination of a Sikh separatist leader on Canadian soil by Indian agents and the evacuation of Canadian citizens from the Middle East. The 45-year-old also stood by Mr Trudeau when the Canadian prime minister said he would recognise the arrest warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, after it was issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC). She is considered to be a well-connected francophone politician hand-picked by Mr Trudeau for senior leadership. He would periodically call me to say, Melanie you need to run, we want you to run, Ms Joly has said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Quebecois international trade specialist previously served as minister of foreign affairs and entered parliament in 2015, having spent most of his working life as a businessman. Described as Trudeaus pitchman, the 54-year-old has become known for his boundless energy. He is the minister of creativity, innovation and enthusiasm, Chris Coons, the US senator for Delaware, joked to an audience at the Eurasia Summit in 2023, referencing a cartoonish optimism which has given rise to nicknames such as Energizer Bunny and Frankie Bubbles. Mr Champagne comes from the politically important province of Quebec and has delivered successes during his time in office, such as a contract with Moderna to build a vaccine facility in Montreal and a lucrative deal with Stellantis to boost EV production in Canada. The lawyer and academic entered politics in 2019 when she was elected to represent Oakville, near Toronto. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 57-year-old, who was also educated at Oxford, served as minister of procurement during the Covid pandemic. Ms Anand was appointed minister of defence in 2021, overseeing Canadas provision of aid to Ukraine and coordinating the response to sexual misconduct scandals within the armed forces. Ms Anand holds four degrees, including a bachelors degree in jurisprudence from Wadham College, Oxford, and a masters of law from the University of Toronto. In December, she was made minister of transport and internal trade. She has a background in financial market regulation and corporate governance. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Israel, with backing from the United States, is reportedly working to extend the 60-day ceasefire agreed with the Lebanese Hezbollah militia at the end of November, according to a media report. The move aims to prevent the ceasefire, set to expire on January 26, from lapsing or hostilities from reigniting immediately after the deadline, the Jerusalem Post reported late on Sunday, citing an Israeli government official. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had met with his security advisers on Sunday afternoon to assess the situation, it said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement US special envoy Amos Hochstein is expected to arrive in Lebanon on Monday to try to preserve the ceasefire deal, the report added. An adviser to Hochstein said that the special envoy is travelling to chair the first full meeting of the committee set up to monitor, verify, and enforce the ceasefire commitments, according to the Jerusalem Post. While a few isolated violations have occurred, the ceasefire has largely held since its implementation. Earlier, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz had warned that the ceasefire was in danger, according to the Times of Israel. Israel would be "forced to act" if Hezbollah fighters did not withdraw from southern Lebanon as mandated by the ceasefire agreement, Katz told the newspaper on Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Katz reportedly emphasized that Israel is interested in maintaining the ceasefire. But, he said, this was conditional on the Hezbollah militants withdrawing behind the Litani River, around 30 kilometres north of the Israeli-Lebanese border, and on the Lebanese Army dismantling all weapons and terrorist infrastructure in the border area. This has not yet happened, Katz warned. The ceasefire has been in effect since November 27. During this time, in addition to the Hezbollah withdrawal, the Israeli Army is due to leave Lebanon and the Lebanese Army is to strengthen its presence in the border area. American parents are far more bullish about the quality of learning in schools than their kids, according to a new report from the Brookings Institution. While substantially less than half of all high schoolers say that they believe theyre learning a lot each day, over 70% of parents say they are. The report, released Monday by the Washington think tanks Center for Universal Education, shows that parents also appear to overestimate how much students love going to school. The divergence in perceptions between adults and children only grows with age, mostly driven by a sizable drop in the numbers of students reporting positive experiences in school after the elementary years. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter The figures point to a failure not only to keep students engaged in school, but also to keep families informed about the true state of their childrens learning, said Rebecca Winthrop, the reports lead author and a Brookings senior fellow. Parents themselves, she added, find it hard to admit that K12 education isnt offering all that it should. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related Report: Parental Apathy Blamed for Rise in Chronic Absenteeism It is psychologically hard for parents and I say this from personal experience to send their kids to school every day knowing that they are just not being challenged, not interested, and not enjoying their time, said Winthrop. Data for the report were drawn from the nonprofit Transcend Education, which conducts an ongoing Student Voice Survey querying pupils in public, charter, and private schools around the United States. A nationally representative sample of over 66,000 students from grades 312 was asked about their time at school including their feelings of self-direction, community ties, and the relevance of the material they studied between 2021 and 2024. Additionally, Transcend contacted nearly 1,900 parents of school-aged children in 2023 and 2024, generating a trove of responses that has not previously been shared with the public. The findings, along with five years of personal interviews and reporting, have also been compiled into The Disengaged Teen, a book being released by Brookings later this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The data highlight a profound degree of academic and social disengagement among teenagers. While students report comparatively high levels of enjoyment and agency at school, less than one-third of middle and high schoolers said they felt that what they learned was relevant to life outside the classroom, that their classmates persevered when the work gets hard, or that they had any say over what happened to them during the school day. Brookings Institution Older students were also more likely to report a sense of disconnection from their learning environments, with less than half saying they felt like they were part of a community or that adults respected their suggestions. Overall, only 36% of respondents from grades 612 said they were able to develop their own ideas at school. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the jaded responses grew substantially as children aged into adolescence. While 86% of third graders said they learned a great deal in school, just 44% of 12th graders said the same. The portion of students who said they loved going to school fell from 74% to 29% over those 10 academic years. While higher percentages of parents always responded more positively to those questions than children, the gap in perceptions also grows significantly with the passage of time. By their freshman year, just 30% of students say they loved attending school; by contrast, nearly 70% of parents said they believed their kids loved their time in the classroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related 6 Hidden & Not-So-Hidden Factors Driving Americas Student Absenteeism Crisis Especially after the pandemic, when prolonged bouts of virtual instruction frayed the connections between families and schools, parents have been in the dark about the quality of schooling their children receive. Many report being under-informed about students academic progress, leading to surprise and alarm when standardized test results reveal gaps in knowledge. Growing alienation from the rituals and relationships of K12 schools particularly apparent in elevated rates of chronic absenteeism, which rocketed upwards during the COVID era ultimately compound in lost opportunities to form connections with students, observed Hedy Chang, executive director of the advocacy group Attendance Works. Attendance and engagement are inextricably linked, Chang wrote in an email. When chronic absence reaches high levels in classrooms, the churn affects all students, making it harder for teachers to teach and students to learn from each other and their instructors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nat Malkus, the deputy director of education policy at the conservative American Enterprise Institute, said it would be useful for schools and districts to offer more feedback to parents about the level of student engagement. But it might be a tall order given the existing demands of data dissemination, he wrote in an email. Despite quality tests and lots of communication, parent perceptions of their students academic progress dont match what tests are showing, argued Malkus, who has carefully tracked student engagement and attendance problems over the last half-decade. So I am skeptical that an additional layer of data collection and communication will be a breakthrough. Winthrop said that, atop families evident lack of information and COVID-related disruptions to education delivery, older students simply need to receive more independence and options than they are currently getting in conventional schools. Alternative schooling types, such as those that emphasize student choice and even work experience during the school week, could build a healthier sense of self-determination among young adults, she added. Related The Average Student Is a Myth. Teaching to Those at the Margins Helps All Kids Whatever model you look at, if it gives kids more autonomy holds them to strong standards, but also gives them freedom to apply what theyre learning in the real world those kids become unstoppable, and they love school. So I think this is a design problem at its core. Paycor, the Greater Cincinnati-based human resources software company whose name adorns the Bengals stadium, is in talks to be acquired by a larger New York rival, according to Bloomberg. Citing unnamed sources, the business news outlet reported that Rochester, New York-based Paychex is in advanced talks with the Norwood company that employs 2,900 workers. Paycor is slated to move its offices into the former Saks department store downtown this summer. The company also bought the naming rights to the Cincinnati Bengals home stadium in 2022. While a deal may still fall apart, an agreement could also be announced as soon as this week, the outlet reported citing people with knowledge of the matter. Construction to overhaul the former Saks Fifth Avenue in downtown Cincinnati in September 2024. Cincinnati Center City Development Corp is spearheading the $30 million project that will be become offices, retail and restaurant space with Paycor as the anchor tenant. Officials with Paycor and Paychex did not respond to messages seeking comment. Advertisement Advertisement Paycor stock jumped more than 20% Monday as news of the report spread. Paychex shares slipped nearly 2%. Paycors current market capitalization (the total value of its outstanding shares) and its enterprise value (a companys market cap, plus its outstanding debt minus its cash on hand) imply it could be bought for about $3.3 billion. Both companies offer employers computer platforms to manage payroll functions for personnel management, but Paychex, with $5.3 billion in revenue in 2024, is about eight times larger than Paycor, which did about $655 million in its last fiscal year, according to regulatory disclosures. Paychex employs 16,500 workers, according to its latest annual report. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Paycor may be acquired by New York rival Paychex, according to report DENVER (KDVR) Someone may have been using a fake wildlife attack to harass a Summit County resident, according to the Summit County Sheriffs Office. Summit County deputies were faced with a unique case in the penultimate week of 2024 when the agency received a call from a woman who reported a bear in her residence, but authorities ultimately found no trace of the large animal. Officers looking for answers after dog eats rodent poison in Castle Pines neighborhood Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Summit County Sheriffs Offices Justice Files for Dec. 23 through Dec. 29, where the agency publishes its notable patrol calls, property management for a condominium in the unincorporated portion of Silverthorne were called by a resident who said she and her son had barricaded themselves in a room after a bear broke into their rental. The woman told property management that the bear injured her son, and they were able to escape and were on their way to the emergency room. The agency said thats when the woman disconnected the call. Deputies, alongside animal control officers and the Division of Wildlife, responded to the unit and found no signs of a bear in the area. The deputies then called her back and said when they spoke with the woman, she was calm. She told deputies that she was not going to an emergency room, and did not know anything about a bear or the call to 911. She told the deputies that she had been receiving calls from law enforcement all afternoon that referenced random calls to 911 centers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Summit County Sheriffs Office said at this time, the incident is being considered a swatting case. Swatting, as the agency explained, is the act of making false calls reporting serious crimes or incidents to emergency services, sometimes in an attempt to injure someone not connected to law enforcement, but often to fool law enforcement or emergency management resources in an attempt to send large-scale responses. The act often wastes emergency service resources and can take away from actual emergencies in the region. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SPARTANBURG, S.C. (WSPA) A contractor working at Spartanburg Downtown Memorial Airport was shot in the arm while on his lunch break on Sunday, according to police reports. According to a police report, officers with Spartanburg Police Department were called to Spartanburg Airport on Sunday in reference to a weapons offense. At the scene officers found an employee of the airport who was bleeding from his arm. The employee, who works for a contractor helping City of Spartanburg with debris cleanup from Hurricane Helene, appeared to be in shock when they arrived. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before going to the hospital to be checked out, the employee told officers he was sitting in his car at the intersection of South Church Street and Caulder Avenue when he had been shot. The employee was on his lunch break and was on his way to buy food when he parked in an empty parking lot on Caulder Avenue to text his fiance and ask if she also wanted food. While he was texting with his fiance, the employee said a gold-colored vehicle drove past him, then circled back and he heard multiple bangs and he used his arms to cover his face as he drove away. While he was driving away, the employee said he could feel blood dripping from his arm and he called 911 as he drove back to the airport. Police said the employees boss, a former EMT, began rendering aid to the employee as soon as he was back at the airport. According to the police report, an X-ray showed the employee had been hit, but the bullet had passed cleanly through his arm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The employee told police he could not positively identify who shot him, saying only that he thought it was a black man in a blue hoodie. According to a police report, officers went to the area where the employee said he had been shot, but were unable to find any shell casings at the scene. Police did tow the employees car to to the police department for further investigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The Ad Astra statue stands atop the Kansas Statehouse on a rainy afternoon on Nov. 2, 2024. (Grace Hills/Kansas Reflector) TOPEKA Two Republican Senate newcomers say the main reason they beat their Democratic incumbent opponents and the reason behind the expanded Republican supermajorities in the Legislature was constituents concerns about taxes. Brad Starnes, who will represent Riley County, is the first Republican to win the seat since 2008. Jeff Klemp, who will represent Wyandotte and Leavenworth counties, won his election by 31 votes the smallest margin this election season. The two talked about their campaigns and the upcoming legislative session on the Kansas Reflector podcast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People are hurting. Its evident when you go to doorsteps. The No. 1 concern is the amount of taxations, Starnes said. Both senators-elect are set to be on the tax committee, and they predict property tax relief will be a Day 1 priority. Klemp credits Democratic incumbent Sen. Jeff Pittmans voting record on taxes as a reason for his loss. Klemp referenced how Pittman voted to uphold Democratic Gov. Laura Kellys veto on a bipartisan $2.3 billion five-year tax cut plan, which Kelly vetoed because of concerns that it would harm the states financial foundation. When you have truly bipartisan legislation that we know is good for Kansans and we choose to play politics at the expense of Kansans, I think we start making bad decisions, Klemp said. Kansans should expect more out of us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The governor called a special session in June, where lawmakers, including Pittman, adopted a $2 billion five-year tax cut plan. Klemp and Starnes said their Democratic opponents also were voting out of alignment with their constituents beliefs. For example, Starnes pointed to Democratic incumbent Sen. Usha Reddis vote against the foreign threat land ownership bill, which would have restricted countries of concern from purchasing real estate within a 100-mile radius of Kansas military installations. But Starnes said in the district, which has a high number of military members associated with Fort Riley, protections like that are paramount to people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats campaigned to break the Republican supermajorities in both chambers, arguing the imbalance of power harmed the legislative process. Kelly ran a $2 million PAC in hopes of electing more Democrats. Voters instead elected more Republicans in both the House and Senate, expanding GOP ranks beyond the two-thirds threshold needed to override the governors vetoes. Starnes said he doesnt see this as a concern. When we have a much stronger supermajority, that puts more pressure on the entire Legislature theres more energy that needs to be on the decisions we make and how we pay for them, Starnes said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kelly has said she will continue to advocate for Medicaid expansion this session, as she has done throughout her administration. Klemp and Starnes both want medical care to be affordable but are wary of expansion. Starnes says improving Medicaid reimbursement rates would be a better solution than expanding eligibility. Abortion-rights activists also warned against a Republican supermajority this year, in fear of further abortion restrictions. Both Klemp and Starnes were endorsed by Kansans for Life, the largest anti-abortion PAC in Kansas. Klemp says the issue of abortion was overplayed this election. Starnes says he knocked on 9,000 doors and had four people bring up abortion. Both said they see abortion as a decided issue. They said they want more options for pregnant people before birth and for the adoption process to be less expensive. Starnes said after talking with the four constituents who were concerned about abortion, two decided to vote for him. Personally pro-life, I support giving women more options through things like pregnancy crisis centers, ensuring child support is paid prior to birth, Starnes said. I think thats going to be important in the conversation as we go forward in providing more choices for women. The News Congressional Republicans are all over the place on how to enact Donald Trumps border and tax plans. They may need Trump to break the logjam for good, this time. For a few hours over the weekend, it appeared Trump had made a choice in Congress impasse over his agenda, seeming to side with the Houses preference for one big catch-all party-line rather than the Senates two-step strategy. Then the president-elect made another media appearance on Monday morning that revealed he doesnt feel that strongly about the whole row, as long as we get something passed as quickly as possible. Trumps ambivalence effectively threw the matter back to House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune to figure out. And its a less esoteric problem than it looks: Until the House and Senate can agree on a shared blueprint, theyll keep losing time to accomplish the new administrations biggest goals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans are already behind their 2017 pace when it comes to preparing for party-line legislation that can dodge a filibuster. We still need a plan, said Sen. Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, the top tax writer in his chamber, who is doing as much advance legwork as he can to prepare for debate over extending the GOPs 2017 tax cuts. (He is officially neutral on whether to write one or two bills, for the record.) At the moment, party leaders are plotting out different scenarios, quietly tinkering with potential legislation and preparing for a laborious effort. Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso, R-Wyo., said Republicans will meet soon with Trump to hash out the matter. And unless one path can win the day, Trump will take office with Congress still stuck in the mud. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve just got to just get together and start doing it, but weve got to communicate. You know, we didnt communicate on that immigration bill, Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., told Semafor, referring to the bipartisan border deal that Trump ended up opposing and killing in Congress last year. That turned into a disaster. Know More The GOP debate over how to act on border security and prevent Trumps first-term tax cuts from expiring is a case study in how the congressional process affects legislative success. Budget committees first have to design the partys plans to conform to strict rules in order to avoid a Democratic filibuster in the Senate; its a task that requires close coordination between the two chambers. Despite Trumps second win being far less surprising, that coordination hasnt exactly materialized yet. Back in 2017, both chambers of Congress passed budgets that set up a party-line effort to repeal Obamacare before Trump was even sworn in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But eight years later, Senate Republicans are still laying the groundwork for launching a two-part, border-then-taxes GOP agenda, according to people familiar with their plan. Thune devised that plan in December, getting buy-in from many senators, as well as some Trump allies and top aides. House members and other senators are wary of that strategy, however, arguing that a delay in taking up tax cuts which are a higher priority for Congress would put those cuts at risk of failing in a closely divided House. Thunes No. 4 Senate GOP leader Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., said a key factor is whatever the House thinks it can pass. She said she could support either a one- or two-bill plan. The question is: Which strategy has a higher probability of success? said Sen. Todd Young, R-Ind. I personally dont have strong views on that. Im inclined to follow our own leader, John Thune. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump is expected to hold a series of meetings with lawmakers in the coming days as Johnson, Thune and the White House attempt to agree on one broad approach. If they ultimately gravitate to a one-bill strategy, its likely to take well into the spring to pass. A border-only bill, the Senate GOP thinking goes, could pass by February or March. The View From The Border-First Republicans Senate Budget Committee Chair Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., is still aligned with Thunes two-bill plan, arguing that quick movement on immigration would be better for national security. Im in the camp of cutting taxes and border security. But the threat levels I see, I think it would be smart to increase military spending and give the money Trump needs to deport people and secure the border early on, Graham said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barrasso said on Monday after a Republican leadership meeting that the two-part strategy makes the president happy, it makes the base happy, and improves, clearly, the security in the nation. But he acknowledged the House is afraid they cant get two [bills] passed, and Graham also said more discussions are needed. Burgesss view Just a few weeks ago, Trump dismantled weeks of work on a government spending bill in a single social media post. The same thing could happen, seemingly at any moment, to the GOPs planned agenda on border security and taxes. If Trump continues his relatively neutral stance, Johnson and Thune will have to work it out among themselves. But even though each GOP leader attended the other chambers recent retreat to try to get in sync, the president-elects unclear position is making that job harder. Perhaps Republicans impending meetings with Trump will put the argument behind them. The snowstorm that descended on Washington, D.C., and other parts of the mid-Atlantic region on Monday marked a surreal fourth anniversary to the January 6 attack of 2021. And with Donald Trump now set to return to the White House in exactly two weeks, the day has taken on a kind of Festivus-esque vibe as liberals and even some members of the press participate in an unofficial Airing of Grievances. If the Seinfeld-glorified holidays motto is Ive got a lot of problems with you people, and now youre going to hear about it, January 6s felt similarly accusatory: Hey Republicans: guess whos not storming the Capitol today? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The return of Trump to the presidency means an end to the two prosecutions of the 45th president pursued by the Justice Department. Fulton Countys case against him looks to be in tatters thanks to what can only be described as the intimate escapades of District Attorney Fani Willis. In short, save for a potential sentencing in his New York criminal fraud trial, Donald Trump has wriggled his way free from every remaining major legal consequence stemming from his last four years in office and his years in business. The liberal dream of seeing Americas justice system deliver a knockout blow is dead. Worse than dead, actually: Trump may well pardon some or all of the defendants charged with crimes for the violent assault on the seat of U.S. democracy. That sense was palpable across social media on Monday as a frozen nations capital came to terms with reality. The snow-covered U.S. Capitol building is seen through black security fencing on the fourth anniversary of the January 6 attack (Getty Images) January 6 left a kind of permanent shock on the minds of many in Washington whod never expected such widespread unrest to play out not just in the Capitol but across pockets of the whole city that day. That shock and the residual anger stemming from the twin failures (in many minds) of the justice system and the Democratic Party to stand up to Trump in an effective manner this year led many to focus their outrage on the anniversary of the attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawmakers met on Monday afternoon to certify the presidential election results for the first time since that attack. For the third year in a row, black metal security fencing surrounded the Capitol complex, and for the third time there wasnt even a hint of protests. Republicans were hard at work, once again, rewriting history in preparation for the return of Trump to the capital. Mike Collins won the title of the GOPs chief anti-historian for the day with his newest kindly descriptor for the rioters who injured dozens of officers on January 6. On #ThisDayInHistory in 2021, thousands of peaceful grandmothers gathered in Washington, D.C., to take a self-guided, albeit unauthorized, tour of the U.S. Capitol building, he wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The election certification today is vastly different than 2020 no COVID lockdowns, high GOP engagement on election integrity, and a historic win by President Trump, added Marjorie Taylor Greene. With their party now consigned to the minority in both chambers and denied four more years of White House control, Democrats meanwhile resigned themselves to a series of statements essentially congratulating themselves for not attempting a coup. There was Jim Clyburn, a key ally to President Joe Biden, speaking with the latters former press secretary Jen Psaki on MSNBC: It is a very unnerving moment. I do not believe we will have a repeat of [Jan 6]. We will have a Vice President who believes in the peaceful transition of the office. She will preside over her own defeat. I saw Al Gore do that some years ago, he continued. This is what makes America great. I hope the American people will take time out to watch this tomorrow and, hopefully, have their faith in this great country renewed." (L-R) US Senator Deb Fischer, Republican from Nebraska, speaks as US Vice President Kamala Harris and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson look on during of a joint session of Congress to certify the results of the 2024 Presidential election (AFP via Getty Images) The digs from his colleagues were sharper. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eric Swalwell, who frequently jousts with Republicans, commenting on the weather: Man, January 6 would have been a different day if it looked like today. No way Trumps goons fight the cops if its freezing and snowing. Adam Smith, on Fox News, needling the shows anchor: I do find it interesting that Fox News is only concerned about Democratic election deniers. It seems like the Republicans took that whole thing a little bit more seriously in terms of storming the Capitol. A slew of reporters tweeted clips of the worst violence from the attack, and cable news saw the return of a familiar cast of Jan 6 heroes, former Capitol Police officers Harry Dunn, Aquilino Gonell and Daniel Hodges, who all found their way back in front of the cameras this week. And there was even the vice president (and Trumps failed opponent) herself. Kamala Harris on Monday released a video message previewing what could well be her last big act on the political stage: a grim, nonpartisan certification of her own defeat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As we have seen, our democracy is fragile, says Harris in the video. And it is up to then each one of us to stand up for our most cherished principles. Washingtons liberals are making it clear: theyre not entirely ready to move on. The onset of the Trump presidency just may not give them a choice. HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) The surgeon general is calling for alcohol companies to add a warning label about the link between alcohol and cancer. The push comes as new research shows a staggering number of cancer cases associated with alcohol consumption. Dr. Andrew Wong, medical director of internal medicine at the Hartford HealthCare Medical Group joined Good Morning Connecticut at 9 a.m. to discuss. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch the video above. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. GOMA, Congo (AP) Rebels with the M23 group have seized two key towns in eastern Congo as they advance in the volatile region, civil society and a local politician said Monday, as the security and humanitarian crisis deepened. The rebels over the past week took Katale and Masisi towns, the latter located 80 kilometers (49 miles) west of the regional capital, Goma, and a strategic entry point into the country's interior. The M23 is one of over 100 armed groups that have been vying for territory in mineral-rich eastern Congo near the border with Rwanda, in a conflict that has created one of the worlds largest humanitarian crises. More than 7 million people have been displaced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement M23 political spokesman Lawrence Kanyuka claimed responsibility for the capture of Masisi on social media platform X. He asserted that the group is committed to protecting civilians. Alexis Bahunga, deputy for the Masisi territory, confirmed that Masisi was under the M23's control. The humanitarian situation is so catastrophic, he told The Associated Press in a phone interview Monday. People are scattered in all corners of the territory, in camps. The spokesman for the Congolese army, Col. Djike Kaiko, told the AP he was still checking the information. John Banyene, president of the civil society group Forces Vives du Nord-Kivu, denounced the governments lethargy in the face of the rebel advance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is inconceivable that the government continues to act in this way at a time when we are losing space, he said. Bernard Kanyama, a resident of Bweremana village next to Masisi, said he saw people fleeing to other villages. We saw even yesterday two people who died when the rebels fired a bomb in Bweremana and several wounded, so we are very worried, he told the AP. Congo and the United Nations accuse Rwanda of backing the M23. Rwanda denies it, but in February it acknowledged that it has troops and missile systems in eastern Congo to safeguard its security, pointing to a buildup of Congolese forces near the border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.N. experts estimate there are up to 4,000 Rwandan forces in Congo. In July, Congo signed a ceasefire with the M23, which came into effect in August, but fighting has resumed, with the United States saying it was gravely concerned by ceasefire violations by M23 rebels. QUNEITRA, Syria (AP) A main road in the provincial capital of Quneitra in southern Syria was blocked with mounds of dirt, fallen palm trees and a metal pole that appeared to have once been a traffic light. On the other side of the barriers, an Israeli tank could be seen maneuvering in the middle of the street. Israeli forces entered the area which lies in a U.N.-patrolled buffer zone in the Golan Heights that was established by a 1974 ceasefire agreement between Syria and Israel soon after the fall of President Bashar Assad last month in the country's 13-year civil war. The Israeli military has also made incursions into Syrian territory outside of the buffer zone, sparking protests by local residents. They said the Israeli forces have demolished homes and prevented farmers from going to their fields in some areas. On at least two occasions, Israeli troops reportedly opened fired on protesters who approached them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents of Quneitra, a seemingly serene bucolic expanse of small villages and olive groves, said they are frustrated, both by the Israeli advances and by the lack of action from Syrias new authorities and the international community. Rinata Fastas said that Israeli forces raided local government buildings but had not so far entered residential neighborhoods. Her house lies just inside of the newly blocked-off area in the provincial capital formerly called Baath City, after Assad's former ruling party, and now renamed Salam City. She said she is afraid Israeli troops may advance farther or try to permanently occupy the area they have already taken. Israel still controls the Golan Heights, a strategic plateau overlooking northern Israel that it captured from Syria during the 1967 Mideast war and later annexed. The international community, with the exception of the U.S., regards it as occupied. Fastas said she understands that Syria, which is now trying to build its national institutions and army from scratch, is in no position to militarily confront Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But why is no one in the new Syrian state coming out and talking about the violations that are happening in Quneitra province and against the rights of its people? she asked. Syria's new rulers are in no rush to confront Israel Israel describes its activity in Syria as defensive and temporary. Officials point to the presence of Iranian-backed forces in Syria before Assad was ousted, and say they want to prevent a cross-border incursion like the Hamas-led attack that triggered the war in Gaza. They are also wary of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the Islamist former insurgent group that is now the dominant faction in Syria's new administration and which previously had ties to al-Qaida, although it has renounced them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israels foreign minister, Gideon Saar, recently called Syrias new leadership a terrorist gang and claimed that many countries wanted to recognize the new Syrian government only in order to send their Syrian refugees home. The United Nations has accused Israel of violating the 1974 ceasefire agreement by entering the buffer zone. The Israeli army said in a statement that it remains committed to the principles of the agreement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said troops will stay in Syria "until another arrangement is found that will ensure Israels security. He was speaking from the snowy peak of Mount Hermon, Syrias tallest mountain known as Jabal al Sheikh in Arabic, which has now been captured by Israeli forces. The new Syrian government has lodged a complaint with the U.N. Security Council about Israeli airstrikes and advances into Syrian territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the issue does not appear to be a priority for Syrias new rulers as they try to consolidate control over the country, turn a patchwork of former rebel factions into a new national army, and push for the removal of Western sanctions. The countrys new de facto leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, head of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, has also publicly said Syria is not seeking a military conflict with Israel and will not pose a threat to its neighbors or to the West. In the meantime, residents of Quneitra have largely been left to fend for themselves. In the village of Rafid, inside the buffer zone, locals said the Israeli military had demolished two civilian houses and a grove of trees as well as a former Syrian army outpost. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mayor Omar Mahmoud Ismail said when the Israeli forces entered the village, an Israeli officer greeted him and told him, I am your friend. I told him, You are not my friend, and if you were, you wouldnt enter like this," Ismail said. Locals who organized a protest were met with Israeli fire In Dawaya, a village outside the buffer zone, 18-year-old Abdelrahman Khaled al-Aqqa was lying on a mattress in his family home Sunday, still recovering after being shot in both legs. Al-Aqqa said he joined about 100 people from the area on Dec. 25 in protest against the Israeli incursion, chanting Syria is free, Israel get out! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We didnt have any weapons, we were just there in the clothes we were wearing, he said. But when we got close to them, they started shooting at us. Six protesters were wounded, according to residents and media reports. Another man was injured on Dec. 20 in a similar incident in the village of Maariyah. The Israeli army said at the time that it had fired because the man was quickly approaching and ignored calls to stop. Regarding the Dec. 25 incident, the Israeli military said its forces had fired warning shots solely aimed at the air after the crowd did not heed a call to stand back. In the village of Swisah, Adel Subhi al-Ali, a local Sunni religious official, sat with his 21-year-old son, Moutasem, who was recovering after being shot in the stomach in the Dec. 25 protest. He was driven first to a local hospital that did not have the capacity to treat him, and then to Damascus where he underwent surgery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When he saw the Israeli tanks moving in, We felt that an occupation is occupying our land. So we had to defend it, even though we didnt have weapons, ... It is impossible for them to settle here, al-Ali said. Since the day of the protest, the Israeli army has not returned to the area, he said. Al-Ali called for the international community to pressure Israel to return to what was agreed upon with the former regime, referring to the 1974 ceasefire agreement, and to return the Golan Heights to Syria. But he acknowledged that Syria has little leverage. We are starting from zero, we need to build a state, al-Ali said, echoing Syria's new leaders. We are not ready as a country now to open wars with another country." Associated Press writer Josef Federman in Jerusalem contributed to this report. Human metapneumovirus is spreading in China, but health experts say it's not a repeat of COVID-19. Unlike COVID-19, HMPV has been around for decades, so we know how it spreads and how to treat it. But China must still monitor the situation to keep it under control. Five years after COVID-19 began spreading in the Chinese city of Wuhan, cases of human metapneumovirus, which also causes respiratory infections, have risen in the country, particularly among children. Between December 23 and 29, cases of HMPV rose from the week before, particularly in northern China and in children under 14, the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention said on Thursday. Cases of influenza, rhinovirus, and mycoplasma pneumoniae also increased, it said. Online videos of crowded hospitals in China are reminiscent of the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, and Google searches in the US related to HMPV and the likelihood of a coming pandemic and lockdowns have spiked in recent days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But HMPV doesn't pose a similar threat to COVID-19 because it's not a new virus, meaning we understand how it affects humans and most people already have some immunity against it. HMPV causes coldlike symptoms that don't typically require treatment HMPV usually causes coldlike symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, a runny nose, and a sore throat, that clear on their own in three to six days. But it can lead to more serious conditions, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly in young children, adults over 65, and people who are immunocompromised. Infections are most common in colder seasons. Most people get HMPV before they turn 5, so symptoms tend to be more severe in children as they haven't yet built up immunity against it. A person gains some immunity to the virus when they first catch it, so symptoms are typically mild if they're reinfected. It spreads through coughing and sneezing, direct contact with an infected person, or touching surfaces contaminated with the virus, such as phones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are no antiviral medications for HMPV, but if a patient becomes seriously ill, doctors may use oxygen therapy to help them breathe or antibiotics to treat secondary infections. There isn't a vaccine, but there are some in development. Unlike COVID-19, HMPV is not a new virus HMPV was first identified in the Netherlands in 2001 but is believed to have been infecting humans for decades. "This is very different to the COVID-19 pandemic," Jill Carr, a virologist at the College of Medicine and Public Health at Flinders University in Australia, said. "The virus was completely new in humans and arose from a spillover from animals and spread to pandemic levels because there was no prior exposure or protective immunity in the community," Carr said of COVID-19. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There's a broad understanding of how HMPV spreads and affects humans, as well as diagnostic tests to identify it. "HMPV can certainly make people very sick, and high case numbers are a threat to effective hospital services, but the current situation in China with high HMPV cases is very different to the threats initially posed by SARS-CoV-2 resulting in the COVID-19 pandemic," Carr said. The World Health Organization does not view HMPV in China as an emergency A spokesperson for the World Health Organization told Business Insider via email that higher levels of respiratory illnesses, including HMPV, are expected at this time of year, adding that the rate of "influenza activity" was lower than in the same period last year. On Thursday, the Chinese CDC advised people to take health precautions, such as maintaining good hygiene, covering their mouths and noses with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing, washing their hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and wearing masks in crowded spaces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But in a press conference on Friday, the Chinese government appeared to push back against online speculation that the situation could overwhelm hospitals and lead to a new pandemic, The Guardian reported. "Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season," Mao Ning, a spokesperson for China's foreign ministry, said Friday. "The diseases appear to be less severe and spread with a smaller scale compared to the previous year." China needs to share its data on the virus to lower the risk of a public health crisis Vasso Apostolopoulos, a professor of immunology at the School of Health and Biomedical Sciences at RMIT University in Australia, said that the growing number of cases and pressure on healthcare systems in densely populated areas like China highlighted the need for enhanced surveillance strategies. "Ensuring effective monitoring and timely responses will be key to mitigating the public health risks of this outbreak," she said. Read the original article on Business Insider The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine has ordered an additional 180,000 rounds of 35mm ammunition for the Gepard anti-aircraft system from the German arms concern Rheinmetall. Source: European Pravda, citing a statement by Rheinmetall on 6 January Details: The new order includes 180,000 HEI-T (high-explosive incendiary-tracer) munitions and was booked in December 2024. The order is funded by Germany. Its value is traditionally not disclosed, indicating that it is a double-digit number in millions of euros. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ordered ammunition can efficiently attack a variety of aerial targets, including drones. It will be manufactured at Rheinmetall's facility in Unterlu. Due to increased demand for 35mm ammunition, the production line at this facility was rebuilt at a high cost and in a short period of time in the spring of 2023. Background: To date, the Federal Republic of Germany handed over a total of 55 Gepard anti-aircraft systems to Ukraine, which were decommissioned by the Bundeswehr. They have demonstrated their worth in air defence for more than two years. In addition, in December, Ukraines Ministry of Defence signed a contract with Germanys Rheinmetall for the supply of 155mm artillery propellant charge modules. On 23 December, Germany revised the list of military aid to Ukraine, including Leopard 1 A5 tanks, IRIS-T SLM/SLS anti-aircraft missile systems, and Patriot launchers. Support UP or become our patron! Dr. Marius C. Tarau started his job as Rhode Island's chief medical examiner on Monday, Dec. 16, 2024. He is the first permanent chief for the office in over eight years. (Courtesy of Rhode Island Department of Health) The hiring of two permanent assistant medical examiners is among the top priorities of Rhode Islands new chief medical examiner, who has been on the job for three weeks. Dr. Marius Tarau is the first permanent leader in over eight years for the Office of State Medical Examiners, which investigates deaths known or suspected to be the result of an accident, homicide or suicide, as well as unexplained or sudden deaths. Taraus first day on the job was Dec. 16. He takes over an office that in recent years has lagged in producing timely autopsy reports, resulting in the downgrading of its accreditation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dr. Tarau is still getting acclimated and is assessing the current operations of the office, Rhode Island Department of Health spokesman Joseph Wendelken told Rhode Island Current in an email. Until he has done that full assessment, he is a little reluctant to be doing interviews. A native of Romania, Tarau most recently served as chief medical examiner for the Jackson County Medical Examiner Office in Kansas City, Missouri, and as a forensic pathology consultant, according to his resume. He is certified by the American Board of Pathology in Anatomic Pathology and Forensic Pathology. Tarau will earn an annual salary of $393,750, far higher than the salary of the departments director, Dr. Jerome Larkin, who earns $250,000. The states former head pathologist Christina Stanley resigned in August 2015 after being placed on administrative leave. Since then, the office had been staffed, in part, by an acting chief medical examiner and contractors. Stanley earned less than $240,000, but the chief medical examiners position received pay bumps over the years to make the state more competitive amid a national shortage of trained pathologists. The fiscal 2024 state budget increased the chief medical examiners salary fron about $280,000 to $375,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement National standards set a benchmark for medical examiner offices to finalize autopsy reports for 90% of cases within 90 days, but staffing challenges led Rhode Island to fall short in recent years. State health department data show only 38% of cases in 2022 and 20% in 2023 were closed in 90 days. Last year 2024, the office investigated a total of 1,439 deaths, of which 214 cases have been open for more than 90 days, Wendelken said. Of the states nine medical examiners, seven are part-time contractors. The reliance on part-time, contract physicians has contributed to cases taking longer to close, Wendelken said. We often needed to exceed those 90 days over the past two years to ensure that we maintained our standards for quality and accuracy, Wendelken said in an email. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The failure to meet the 90 in 90 standard was cited by the professional accreditation team from the National Association of Medical Examiners, which downgraded Rhode Islands office from fully accredited to provisional status. The associations executive director, Denise McNally, said in an email that Rhode Island is in progress for its annual renewal. During the last accreditation cycle, the accreditation team acknowledged that the exceedance of the 90% in 90 days benchmark was the result of the national shortage of forensic pathologists, and they otherwise described the office as well-integrated and quality-driven. Wendelken wrote. Wendelken said the health department is also taking steps in the State Health Laboratories to decrease the turnaround time on toxicology testing. He could not provide any details on how long the tests are taking. In some instances, the time needed for confirmatory results from toxicology testing contributes to the delay in closing out cases, Wendelken wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rhode Island is not alone in its struggles to keep up with autopsy caseloads. A performance audit by the Massachusetts Office of Auditor General released in December found that the states Office of the Chief Medical Examiner met the 90 in 90 standard in 85% of cases sampled. In many instances, getting information from an autopsy is an important part of the closure process for people who have lost a loved one, Tarau said in a statement forwarded to Rhode Island Current. We are looking at our structure and processes in the Office now to see what adjustments we can make to ensure that all cases are closed in a timely way. A search for additional full-time medical examiners is also a priority, and would significantly affect our case turnaround time. Larkin, who was hired as the health departments permanent director last year, praised Taraus experience and credentials. I look forward to supporting Dr. Tarau as he builds on the solid foundation we have in the State Medical Examiners Office and as he explores what improvements we can make in our work to support the death investigation process, provide critical information to law enforcement partners, screen deaths for public health significance, and support the families of the deceased, Larkin said in a statement. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX (KRON) The Richmond Police Department is asking community members to be more vigilant as it investigates a recent wave of street robberies. Richmond PD said there have been 30 incidents reported since Dec. 1 of last year. Antioch Police Department mired in racist text scandal agrees to reforms Police are reminding residents to follow several crime prevention tips to help keep them safe, including: Be aware of your surroundings, especially when getting in or out of your car. Keep your phone tucked away when out in public to avoid distractions. If a situation doesnt feel right to you, it probably isnt. Trust your instincts and go somewhere safer. Keep your valuable items out of sight in your car, placing them in your trunk or just taking them with you. Walk in groups, especially at night. Richmond PD asks the public to not hesitate in reporting anything suspicious. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. N.C. Supreme Court Justice Allison Riggs promised to prevail Sunday in the ongoing legal fight over her slim re-election victory in November, telling a downtown Raleigh crowd that Democrats will prove we won this election. Roughly 500 people crowded onto a cold Halifax Mall carrying signs of support in Riggs continued campaign against Court of Appeals Judge Jefferson Griffin, among them She Won and I Voted for Riggs, not a rigged election. Riggs and a variety of other North Carolina Democrats thanked supporters for the votes that carried several statewide races in November and vowed to someday take back majorities in the legislature and on the courts. But the Riggs-Griffin race dominated Sundays rally. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will not stop until we have put this election fully to bed, Riggs said Sunday. We will make sure that our government is led by people who will protect your right to vote. Supporters of N.C. Supreme Court Justice Allison Riggs rally on Halifax Mall in downtown Raleigh on Sunday. Two months after the election, North Carolina still does not have an official winner in the race for a seat on the state Supreme Court. Griffin trails Riggs by 734 votes, and he has challenged the validity of more than 60,000 ballots. One of those ballots was cast by Christy Clausell of Raleigh, who spoke before Riggs on Sunday and told the crowd she has successfully voted since 2012 without issue. An unaffiliated voter this year, she received a notice in the mail that her vote was being contested. She noted that it was addressed to Christy Clausell or resident, and that it was blank on one side. She might easily have thrown it away, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive never been targeted in any dirty political schemes, she said, but this feels very much like that. Christy Clausell of Raleigh tells a downtown Raleigh crowd how her status as a 2024 voter in North Carolina has been challenged. Two recounts of the results have affirmed Riggs lead, but Griffin argues that the state improperly counted ballots from ineligible voters. The State Board of Elections, which currently has a 3 to 2 Democratic majority, voted mostly along party lines to dismiss Griffins challenges. Griffin sued, asking the state Supreme Court, which has a 5 to 2 Republican majority, to intervene in the case. However, the defendants in the case quickly moved the matter to federal court, where it now stands before U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II, an appointee of former President Donald Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unless Myers issues an injunction, as Griffin has requested, the State Board of Elections could certify Riggs as the winner of the election on Jan. 10. Every single vote in this state has been counted and recounted, said Anderson Clayton, chair of the state Democratic Party. Supreme Court Justice Allison Riggs has won her seat. These votes deserve to be respected. These votes deserve to be counted. These votes deserve to be left alone. Democrats rally in downtown Raleigh in support of N.C. Supreme Court Justice Allison Riggs on Sunday. Reached Sunday, NC GOP spokesman Matt Mercer said Griffin and state Republicans continue to fight for election integrity and the counting of every legal vote. NC Democrats still havent appeared to get the message that North Carolinians and Americans do not stand with them and their failed policies, Mercer said in an email. Whether its the weaponization nationally of the legal system against President Trump or the failure of the State Board of Elections here to follow state law, Republicans will stand for freedom of speech and the rule of law to put North Carolina families first. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clausell told the downtown crowd that after receiving her notice she sought an explanation from Democratic and Republican officials by email and voicemail. Democrats contacted her seven times, she said; Republicans, none. Those actions will tell you who cares and who doesnt, she said. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) Over the next few days, residents in the District can expect to see some heightened security and road closures as Congress convenes to certify the presidential election and as the city prepares for the funeral of Jimmy Carter. D.C. police said the heightened security comes not only as the city hosts these two significant events but also in the aftermath of the attack in New Orleans on New Years Day that left 14 people dead. As the nations capital, we maintain a heightened level of security at all times to ensure the safety of our residents, businesses, and visitors, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) deputy director of communications Paris Lewbel said, in part, in a statement to DC News Now last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PREVIOUS COVERAGE: DC police to increase security after car rams into New Orleans crowd, killing 10 On Monday, Jan. 6, Congress convened to count electoral votes and certify the win of President-elect Donald Trump in the November election. As a result, MPD announced that the following roads around the US Capitol are closed: First Street between Constitution Avenue, NW, and Independence Avenue, SW Pennsylvania Avenue between 3rd Street, NW, and First Street, NW Maryland Avenue between 3rd Street, SW, and First Street, SW First Street between Constitution Avenue, NE, and Independence Avenue, SE East Capitol Street between First Street and 2nd Street Constitution Avenue between Louisiana Avenue, NW, and 2ndStreet, NE Independence Avenue between Washington Avenue, SW, and 2ndStreet, SE D Street between First Street, NE, and 2nd Street, NE Maryland Avenue between First Street, NE, and Constitution Avenue, NE First Street between Louisiana Avenue, NW, and Constitution Avenue, NW MPD also noted that tour buses began being re-routed on Friday night and will continue to be re-routed until 6 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 8. Police did not specify when the closures will be lifted. A complete map of the closures for the vote certification can be found here. What are DC Snow Emergency Routes? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several roads will also be closed this week for Jimmy Carters State Funeral, which will take place from Tuesday through Thursday. According to MPD, The following roads will be closed to vehicle traffic from 7 p.m. on Monday through 4:30 a.m. on Wednesday: 10th Street from E Street to Constitution Avenue, NW 9th Street from E Street to Constitution Avenue, NW 8th Street from E Street to D Street, NW 7th Street from E Street, NW to Madison Drive, NW 6th Street from Indiana Avenue, NW to Constitution Avenue, NW 4th Street from Pennsylvania Avenue, NW to Madison Drive, NW 3rd Street from D Street, NW to Independence Avenue, SW 2nd Street from C Street, NW to Constitution Avenue, NW Northbound 3rd Street Tunnel Exit 9 toward US Capitol First Street from D Street, NW to Maryland Avenue, SW New Jersey Avenue from D Street, NW to Constitution Avenue, NW First Street from Constitution Avenue, NE to Independence Avenue, SE D Street from 9th Street NW to 6th Street, NW Indiana Avenue from 7th Street to 6th Street, NW C Street from 6th Street to New Jersey Avenue, NW Pennsylvania Avenue from 11th Street to 1st Street, NW Constitution Avenue from 12th Street NW to 2nd Street, NE Madison Drive from 7th Street to 3rd Street, NW Jefferson Drive from 4th Street to 3rd Street, SW Maryland Avenue from Independence Avenue, SW to First Street, SW Louisiana Avenue from New Jersey Avenue, NW to Constitution Avenue, NW The following streets will be open, but only for local traffic, during the same time frame: 13th Street from F Street, NW to Pennsylvania Avenue, NW 12th Street from F Street, NW to Constitution Avenue, NW 11th Street from F Street, NW to Pennsylvania Avenue, NW 10th Street from F Street, NW to E Street, NW 9th Street from F Street, NW to E Street, NW 8th Street from F Street, NW to E Street, NW 7th Street from F Street, NW to E Street, NW 7th Street from Madison Drive, NW to Independence Avenue, SW 6th Street from F Street, NW to Indiana Avenue, NW 5th Street from F Street, NW to Indiana Avenue, NW 4th Street from F Street, NW to Indiana Avenue, NW 4th Street from Madison Drive, NW to Independence Avenue, SW 3rd Street from F Street, NW to D Street, NW 2nd Street from F Street, NW to D Street, NW First Street from F Street, NW to D Street, NW New Jersey Avenue from F Street, NW to D Street, NW North Capitol Street from Massachusetts Avenue, NW to D Street, NW E Street from 11th Street, NW to Columbus Circle, NE D Street from 6th Street, NW to 5th Street, NW D Street from 3rd Street, NW to First Street, NE Indiana Avenue from 6th Street to 3rd Street, NW Pennsylvania Avenue from 15th Street, NW 11th Street, NW Constitution Avenue, NW from 15th Street to 12th Street, NW Madison Drive from 7th Street, NW to 14th Street, NW Jefferson Drive from 14th Street to 4th Street, NW Louisiana Avenue from Columbus Circle, NE to New Jersey Avenue, NW Delaware Avenue from Columbus Circle to D Street, NE From 1 until 3 p.m. on Tuesday, three streets will be closed: F Street from 9th Street to 7th Street, NW 8th Street from F Street to E Street, NW E Street 10th Street to 6th Street, NW From around 7 a.m. until 3 p.m., Independence Avenue from Washington Avenue, SW, to 2nd Street, SE, will also be closed. On Thursday, several closures will be seen around the Washington National Cathedral in Northwest. From just after midnight until 3 p.m., closures will be in effect for these roads: Garfield Street from Massachusetts Avenue, NW to 34th Street, NW 34th Street from Woodley Road to Garfield Street, NW Woodley Road from Wisconsin Avenue to 34th Street, NW Wisconsin Avenue from Lowell Street to Massachusetts Avenue, NW Cathedral Avenue from Massachusetts Avenue to Wisconsin Avenue, NW Several roads will be open during the same time frame but for local traffic only. D.C. police noted those as follows: Garfield Street from 34th Street to 32nd Street, NW Woodland Drive from Garfield Street to 32nd Street, NW 33rd Place from Cathedral Avenue to Garfield Street, NW Cleveland Avenue from 34th Street to 32nd Street, NW Cathedral Avenue from 34th Street to 32nd Street, NW Klingle Road from 34th Street to 32nd Street, NW Woodley Road from 33th Street to 32nd Street, NW 34th Street from Macomb Street to Woodley Road, NW 35th Street from Lowell Street to Woodley Road, NW 36th Street from Lowell Street to Woodley Road, NW Wisconsin Avenue from Macomb Street, NW to Lowell Street, NW Woodley Road from 38th Street to Wisconsin Avenue, NW 36th Street from Garfield Street to Massachusetts Avenue, NW 35th Street from Garfield Street to Fulton Street, NW 34th Place from Garfield Street to Fulton Street, NW 34th Street from Garfield Street to Fulton Street, NW Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Calvert Street from 29th Street to Connecticut Avenue, NW will also only be open to local traffic from 4 a.m. until 3 p.m., according to police. As for parking, a number of streets are posted as emergency no parking until Wednesday to accommodate for the funeral. Drivers can not park along the following roads until after 4:30 a.m. on Wednesday: 13th Street from E Street to Pennsylvania Avenue, NW 12th Street from E Street to Madison Drive, NW 11th Street from E Street to Pennsylvania Avenue, NW 10th Street from E Street to Constitution Avenue, NW 9th Street from E Street to Constitution Avenue, NW 8th Street from F Street to D Street, NW 7th Street from E Street, NW to Independence Avenue, SW 6th Street from E Street to Constitution Avenue, NW 5th Street from E Street to D Street, NW 4th Street from E Street, NW to Independence Avenue, SW 3rd Street from E Street, NW to Independence Avenue, SW 2nd Street from C Street to Constitution Avenue, NW 1st Street from E Street to Pennsylvania Avenue, NW New Jersey Avenue from E Street to Constitution Avenue, NW Louisiana Avenue from Columbus Circle, NE to Constitution Avenue, NW Delaware Avenue from Columbus Circle to Constitution Avenue, NE North Capitol Street from E Street to D Street, NW 1st Street from Columbus Circle, NE to Independence Avenue, SE F Street from 9th Street to 7th Street, NW E Street 10th Street, NW 6th Street, NW D Street from 9th Street NW to 1st Street, NE Indiana Avenue from 7th Street to 3rd Street, NW C Street from 6th Street to New Jersey Avenue, NW Pennsylvania Avenue from 14th Street to 1st Street, NW Constitution Avenue from 14th Street NW to 2nd Street, NE Madison Drive from 14th Street to 3rd Street, NW Jefferson Drive from 14th Street to 3rd Street, SW Maryland Avenue from Independence Avenue to 1st Street, SW Independence Avenue from Washington Avenue, SW to 2nd Street, SE These 10 streets in Northwest will also be posted as Emergency No Parking from just after midnight on Wednesday until 3 p.m. on Thursday: Garfield Street from Massachusetts Avenue to 34th Street, NW 34th Street from Woodley Road to Fulton Street, NW Woodley Road from Wisconsin Avenue to 34th Street, NW Wisconsin Avenue from Lowell Street to Massachusetts Avenue, NW Cathedral Avenue from Massachusetts Avenue to Wisconsin Avenue, NW 125 north of Woodley Road on 36th Street, NW 50 north of Woodley Road on 35th Street and 34th Street, NW 50 east of 34th Street on Woodley Road, Klingle Road, Cleveland Avenue, Cathedral Avenue, and Garfield Street, NW 50 south of Garfield Street on 34th Place, 35th Street, and 36th Street, NW 200 west of Wisconsin Avenue on Woodley Road, NW Also on Thursday, Calvert Street from 28th Street to Shoreham Drive, NW will be listed as Emergency No Parking from 4 a.m. until 3 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For a map of the closures around the Capitol, click here. For a map of the planned closures around the National Cathedral on Thursday, click here. Visit MPDs traffic X page for timely updates on closures and restrictions. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 6Happy Monday and Happy New Year. I hope you had a happy and healthy holiday season. The New Mexico Department of Transportation is reminding people they have until noon Friday to choose their favorite snowplow name. Close to 700 entries were submitted since the contest began last month. Of that, 50 made the next cut, including the PINO Express, Anita Shovel, OptimusPlow, The SNOWMINATOR and Snow Bueno. To see the other choices and to vote, people can go to https://www.dot.nm.gov/name-a-plow/. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NMDOT will announce the top 12 names and assign them to trucks. The "winners will receive bragging rights for a lifetime," NMDOT spokesperson Kristine Bustos-Mihelcic said. "These trucks play an important role in keeping our communities connected and our roads safe during the winter months so let's give them names that reflect their importance and a bit of local flavor," she said. REST AREA WORK TO BEGIN: NMDOT started work Monday on a $20 million project at the Rattlesnake Rest Area, located on Interstate 40 from mile marker 207 to 208 outside Wagon Wheel. Work will include the construction of new 2,850-square-foot restroom facilities, a picnic shelter and parking improvements, and upgrades to the water and sewer system, Bustos-Mihelcic said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WILDLIFE OVERPASS FUNDING: The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Highway Administration recently awarded the Santa Ana Pueblo about $6.4 million in grant funding to go toward designing wildlife overpasses, underpasses and other features along nearly 8 miles of U.S. Highway 550 and 19 miles of Interstate 25. The funding is available through the Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program, a new grant program created by President Joe Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, according to the Department of Transportation. In addition to new wildlife crossings, the grant money will go toward double cattleguards, escape ramps and improved culverts. Species impacted by wildlife-vehicle collisions include mule deer, elk, pronghorn, black bear and mountain lions. "The purpose of the Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program is to improve safety for motorists and wildlife by reducing vehicle collisions with wildlife while also improving habitat connectivity and supporting the survival of threatened or endangered species," according to the Federal Highway Administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CRASH FUNDING: NMDOT and the Department of Public Safety recently received $7.5 million to improve traffic safety data sharing and analysis. The funding will allow NMDOT to expand its crash data, achieve a uniform adoption of crash reporting standards and ensure timely and consistent data sharing with federal partners, Bustos-Mihelcic said. The initiative is part of NMDOT's Target Zero program, which aims to reduce traffic fatalities in New Mexico to zero by 2050. Enhancing crash data systems will help the state better identify high-risk areas and implement targeted road safety measures, including road safety audits conducted statewide, she said. "By improving how we collect, analyze and share traffic data, this collaboration supports the Target Zero program, helping to save lives and move us closer to eliminating traffic fatalities statewide by 2050," DPS Secretary Jason R. Bowie said in a statement. WAUKEGAN, Ill. (WTVO) A Rockford man was shot to death in front of his family while vacationing in Mexico over the holidays. According to WLS, Jesus Macias, 62, and his family were traveling along a highway in Zacatecas, Mexico, on December 30th, 2024, when he failed to stop at a checkpoint set up by a drug cartel. The family held a news conference in Waukegan on Sunday, saying Macias was visiting his mother for Christmas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His niece, Gisselle Jimenez, said Macias failed to stop for a checkpoint that an organized crime group set up. They had just picked up a stove as a gift for my grandmother, she said. They shot up the tires so he can stop, and they ended up shooting him. He ended up dying in my grandmothers arms. He was a really good man, a hardworking man. Went and did his 9-to-5 job just like all American citizens do, and its not fair that this is happening to him. Something needs to be done about it, said his niece, Lucero Rivas. According to his obituary, Macias was a fan of horse racing, and karaoke and was described as a jack of all trades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is due to be buried in Rockford this Wednesday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) In July 1999, Tony Kennedy and Kenneth Gipson were roommates in Hillsboro. But Kennedy, 22, was reported missing, and his car was later found empty in a parking lot near where he lived. The investigation into his disappearance went cold. But in 2018, Hillsboro detectives looked into the case again and presented their evidence to a grand jury in Washington County. That led to an indictment of Gipson for first-degree murder. It wasnt until three years later when Gipson was arrested at his home in Del Rio, Tennessee. He was extradited to Oregon and arraigned for Kennedys death in June 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former roommate accused of murder in 99 Hillsboro disappearance Now, another three years have passed. But the murder trial for Kenneth Gipson begins Tuesday in a Washington County courtroom. Details of the case have remained murky. Its not clear at this time why Hillsboro police once again looked into the case nor how they connected Gipson to his roommates disappearance. Its also not clear at this time whether Kennedys body was ever found. Gipson, 66, is being held in the Washington County Jail on 1st- and 2nd-degree murder. At the time of Kennedys disappearance, Gipson would have been 41. The trial is expected to begin Tuesday morning in Judge Oscar Garcias courtroom with selection for a 12-member jury. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KOIN 6 News will have more information as the trial progresses. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani was found to be in contempt of court for not turning over his assets to two Fulton County election workers after Giuliani was found to have defamed them following the 2020 election. Judge Lewis J. Liman ruled Monday that Giuliani had failed to properly comply with evidence production requests over the last few months. Some of those assets include a valuable signed Joe DiMaggio jersey that appeared to disappear after Giuliani said he last saw it around Sept. 11 in his Manhattan apartment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Giuliani finished up his testimony Monday by appearing remotely from his Florida residence, where he explained why some assets and the paperwork related to them have been hard to locate and forfeit. Giuliani conceded during Mondays testimony that he sometimes did not turn over everything requested because he believed the requests were overly broad or inappropriate or even a trap set by lawyers for the plaintiffs. RELATED STORIES: He also said he sometimes had trouble turning over information regarding his assets because of numerous criminal and civil court cases requiring him to produce factual information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Giuliani, 80, said the demands to turn over materials made it impossible to function in an official way about 30% to 40% of the time. The election workers lawyers say Giuliani has displayed a consistent pattern of willful defiance of Limans October order to give up assets after he was found liable in 2023 for defaming their clients by falsely accusing them of tampering with ballots during the 2020 presidential election. They said in court papers that he has turned over a Mercedes-Benz and his New York apartment but not the paperwork necessary to monetize the assets. And they said he has failed to surrender watches and sports memorabilia, including a Joe DiMaggio jersey, and has not turned over a single dollar from his nonexempt cash accounts. Giuliani said Monday that he was investigating what happened to the DiMaggio jersey and that he currently doesnt know where it is or who has it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aaron Nathan, a lawyer for the election workers, asked the judge to make inferences about what Giuliani had not turned over such as the list of his doctors over the last four years that would make it more likely the court would conclude that the Palm Beach property was not Giulianis primary residence and thus is not protected from seizure. Joseph Cammarata, Giulianis attorney, said reaching such a conclusion would be like a civil death penalty and would cause Giuliani to lose the Florida property even before a trial in mid-January, when the judge is supposed to hear testimony and view evidence before deciding the disposition of the condominium and World Series rings. Giuliani has insisted that the Palm Beach property is his personal residence now and should be shielded from the judgment. His lawyers have predicted that he will eventually win custody of the items on appeal. The Associated Press contributed to this article. Rudy Giuliani was held in contempt of court on Friday for failing to turn over personal items to two former Georgia election workers he defamed while spreading President-elect Donald Trumps false claims about a stolen election in 2020. The ruling comes before a trial in New York, set to begin Jan. 16, in which the judge will determine what is to become of Giulianis Palm Beach, Florida, condo; two World Series rings; and other items he argues are personal gifts that should not be surrendered to the workers, Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss, as part of the $148 million he owes them. The decision was handed down by U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman and comes after the former New York City mayor repeatedly flouted directions from the court to surrender records and personal items to Freeman and Moss. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court takes judicial notice that the defendant was until recently a barred attorney, and has committed discovery violations in the past. He has lost on both procedural and substantive questions. It was not even close. He violated the courts order, Liman said Monday, according to Inner City Press. Giuliani owes the women $148 million for the damage and havoc he wreaked on their lives by falsely and repeatedly claiming they committed fraud while working the polls at State Farm Arena in Fulton County, Georgia, in 2020. Freeman and Moss were forced to quit their jobs and had to go into hiding. They were terrorized for weeks and endured a torrent of threats and racist attacks. Even after the defamation trial, the women say Giuliani has continued to smear them. The contempt hearing started on Friday and continued into Monday. Giuliani testified in person Friday but was allowed to appear remotely for the second part of the proceedings. As HuffPost reported in November, the former election workers had already procured some of what is owed to them including a vintage Mercedes convertible, a dozen watches and a diamond ring but they were missing paperwork connected to his Mercedes convertible and his property in New York City. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In court in Manhattan on Friday, Giuliani said he finally located the lease for his Upper East Side apartment as well as the title to his Mercedes. According to NBC, the former Trump attorney said he tried to comply with orders but struggled to do so because of a rigorous and demanding legal schedule. In addition to the defamation case, Giuliani has been criminally charged in Arizona and Georgia for his role in Trumps alleged fake elector scam. Some days it is completely impossible because there are conflicting demands for material and appearances on the same day, Giuliani said Friday. Though he vowed he never meant to evade the judges orders, he conceded that he didnt really want to give Freeman or Moss a gold pocket watch he inherited from his grandfather. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Giuliani said he was worried it would get lost. According to The Independent, that was the last thing he wanted. Im not trying to hide it from anyone. I took it upon myself to put it in a safe place. Its the one thing that means something to me, he told the judge. On Monday, when he appeared again, he held up the watch for the judge to see. I dont know how to get it to you. I dont want to mail it, he said, according to Inner City Press. The women say Giuliani has also played a game of hide-and-seek with a valuable New York Yankees jersey signed by Joe DiMaggio that once hung over a mantle in his Manhattan apartment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Freeman and Moss said they were unable to locate it for months and when the women went to assess items at the property this fall, the jersey and several other items, including an array of furniture, wasnt there. The women told the judge they had previously seen the jersey in photos of Giulianis apartment. Giuliani told Liman it was possible the jersey was moved out of the apartment at some point. According to NBC, when Giulianis friend Monsignor Alan Placa testified in court last Friday, he said he had seen it framed in Giulianis home in Palm Beach at some point in the last two years. Giuliani said Placa was confused about what I have and dont have when it comes to memorabilia from the Yankees since there is so much of it. (A signed photo of Yankees legend Reggie Jackson is also missing in action, according to Freeman and Moss.) The former mayor has also pinned his failure to comply on his former lawyer, Kenneth Caruso. Caruso withdrew from Giulianis case in November. A month later, unsealed court filings showed Caruso bailed because Giuliani allegedly wouldnt cooperate with the discovery process and refused to hand over devices sought by the court. Giuliani has denied that is what caused the breakdown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attorney Joseph Cammarata began representing Giuliani shortly after Caruso departed. On Monday, Inner City Press reported that Cammarata told Liman his client had substantially complied and urged that they had done our best to avoid sanctions. Giulianis trial set to begin in about two weeks will attempt to resolve what is to become of his Palm Beach condo. Its valued at roughly $3 million and the former mayor, according to his lawyers, lived in it at least part time while not living in New York. Freeman and Moss asked Liman to hold Giuliani in contempt because they say they were unable to gain his cooperation in full and this was among their last remaining checks on him. Contempt penalties can lead to jail time and fines, but with Giuliani already unwillingly on the hook for $148 million, more financial penalties are unlikely to mean much, attorneys for Freeman and Moss argued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both women, according to Politico, did not ask the judge to put Giuliani in jail but rather, to apply whatever sanctions the judge felt were fit. They have suggested, however, that part of the penalty for Giuliani would be an order from the judge declaring that Giuliani never intended to live in the Palm Beach property. On Jan. 10, Giuliani is due in court in Washington, D.C., for another contempt hearing. There he is expected to appear before U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell who will hear arguments over whether the former mayor should be slapped with sanctions because he has continued to defame Freeman and Moss with commentary on his podcast. A Colorado man vanished nearly three weeks ago from his sober living house, and now his roommate is accused of killing him and another man, say authorities. On Jan. 3, the El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal announced that the body of Stephen Walker, 37, of Cimmaron Hills, had been found in a wooded area outside of El Paso County. His roommate, Johnny Rankin Morris, 46, of Cimmaron Hills, was arrested in Pearl River County, Miss., on a warrant issued on Dec. 31, 2024, and charged in connection with Walkers death, Roybal said in a release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Morris is charged with first-degree murder, tampering with a deceased human body and tampering with physical evidence in connection with Walker's death, police said. GoogleMaps The home in Colorado where Stephen Walker was living when he vanished The home in Colorado where Stephen Walker was living when he vanished He was arrested in Mississippi on Dec. 30 on unrelated charges. He is awaiting extradition from Mississippi and is being held without bond. The investigation began on Dec. 19, when Walker was reported missing from the house where he was living on Pima Drive in Cimmaron Hills, the El Paso County Sheriffs Office said in a statement. Deputies responded to the house and came upon large quantities of blood in multiple locations throughout the residence, the sheriff said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sheriffs office began searching for Morris as a person of interest in Walkers disappearance. They said he was with a woman named Hailey Cole, 43, and was traveling with her to Mississippi, where they are from, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation said. 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. On Dec. 24, police were called to a home on Campfire Road in Park County, Colo., for a welfare check and found the body of Timmy Huston, 65, the Park County Sheriff's Office said. Deputies found Walker's car about a mile from Huston's house, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two days later, the Pearl River County Sheriffs Office in Mississippi received a call about a man allegedly matching Morris description trying to break into the caller's vehicle, the Pearl River County Sheriffs Office said in a release. Deputies searched the area and found Morris and Cole camping in a shed. They were arrested on outstanding warrants in Mississippi for failure to appear and receiving stolen property. Mississippi authorities learned that the pair were persons of interest in a death/missing persons investigation and contacted the El Paso County Sheriffs Office, the Pearl River County Sheriffs Office said. Morris and Cole are both facing first-degree murder charges in connection with Hustons death, authorities said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walker was living in a sober living house when he vanished, his family and friends said, KRDO reports. He got sober, an unidentified friend told KRDO. He actually helped me get sober. We were sober together in Arizona for a while. He was just a big inspiration. It is unclear whether the suspects have attorneys who can comment on their behalf. Read the original article on People KYIV, Ukraine (AP) Russian troops in eastern Ukraine have captured the stronghold of Kurakhove after a monthslong battle, Russias Defense Ministry claimed Monday, adding the wrecked town to the Kremlins list of conquests during the almost three-year war. But the Ukrainian force defending Kurakhove dismissed the claim while acknowledging that Russian forces were attacking urban areas. "Measures to identify and destroy enemy assault groups that are trying to infiltrate our battle formations are underway, the local military command said on Telegram. Russia's claim came a day after its Defense Ministry said Ukrainian forces had pressed new attacks in Russias Kursk border region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian officials usually comment on major battlefield defeats only days after Russia announces them. The inauguration in two weeks of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has brought a new element of uncertainty and triggered an apparent effort by both sides to establish battlefield gains before any possible peace talks. Trump hasnt detailed his plans for accomplishing his goal of ending the fighting, but his presence in the White House is likely to significantly affect how the war plays out. Kurakhove is a stronghold for the Ukrainian army on the eastern front line in the partially occupied Donetsk region. It has an industrial zone, a thermal power plant and a reservoir and sits on a highway between eastern and southern Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In November, The Associated Press reported from the town that some 7,000-10,000 people likely remained there. Its prewar population was about twice that. The town has been under relentless attacks from artillery, multiple rocket launchers, powerful guided bombs and drones that have shattered buildings. Meanwhile, Michael Kofman of the Carnegie Endowment said in an assessment published on social platform X that there has been some cheering news for Ukraine. Ukraine is grinding down Russian forces. Russian gains are small relative to costs. There has been no collapse of the front, Kofman wrote. On the other hand, he said, Ukraine is losing territory. The coldest part of the winter is yet ahead. The current theory of success is unclear, or what resources will be made available by the West in 2025. Russia has been driving westward in a slow and costly effort to capture all of Donetsk. Ukraine is short of troops on the front lines and is straining to hold back the bigger Russian army. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russian forces are trying to close in on Pokrovsk, a key road junction and rail distribution center furnishing supplies to a broad span of the Ukrainian front line. In 2022, Moscow illegally annexed the Donetsk and neighboring Luhansk regions, which make up the Donbas industrial area, together with southeastern provinces of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. But Russian forces dont fully control any of them. Ukraine is keen to get new Western military aid delivered quickly, and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Sunday he hoped more would be pledged this week at a meeting with Western partners in Germany. Russias Defense Ministry said Sunday that Ukraine launched a fresh offensive in the Kursk region, where military analysts estimate Kyiv recently lost 40% of what its forces captured in a lightning insurgency five months ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russian officials claimed their forces pushed back the Ukrainian offensive, but some reports from Russian military bloggers indicated that Moscows forces faced significant pressure. The Institute for the Study of War, a Washington think tank that monitors the conflict, said Ukrainian forces on Sunday resumed offensive operations in at least three areas of Kursk and made tactical advances. ___ Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine Russia has claimed to have captured the key logistics hub of Kurakhove in Ukraines eastern Donetsk region on Monday. Moscows defence ministry said units of its Southern group of troops had liberated the industrial town, which had held on for weeks after intense Russian attacks. The ministry added: Over the course of ten years, the Kyiv regime has turned it into a powerful fortified area with a developed network of long-term fire points and underground communications. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city sits on a major highway connecting the Russian-occupied city of Donetsk to the Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia, a significant regional capital. Kurakhove is also around 30 kilometres south of the Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk, another important logistics hub that underpins Kyivs defence in the east of the country. Both towns have been targets in the main thrust of Russias offensive through the Donbas regions of Donetsk and Luhansk. In response to the Russian claims, Ukraine said fighting was still ongoing in and around the town, which is home to a Soviet-era power station destroyed by Moscows forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ukrainian Khortytsia group of forces wrote on Telegram on Monday: The enemy is conducting assault operations in the urban development of Kurakhove, in the direction of Petropavlivka and Dachne. They continued: Measures are underway to identify and destroy enemy assault groups trying to infiltrate our battle formations. Ukraines General Staff reported its forces had repelled 27 attacks in the direction of Kurakhove. A man rides on a bicycle in Kurakhove as smoke billows from a mail office destoryed by Russian airstike in the background - Anton Shtuka/AP The enemy made the main efforts in the areas of Slovyanka, Petropavlivka, Kurakhove and Dachne, it added. Maps published by Deep State, a Ukrainian war blog, showed the majority of the city under Russian control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Telegraph could not independently verify either Russias or Ukraines claims. Russia has been advancing towards the logistics hub for months, often at the cost of high numbers of personnel and equipment. Ukrainian Marine Corps soldiers are pictured inside a vehicle on the Kurakhove frontline - Getty Images Europe Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The offensive in the Donetsk region accelerated in the wake of Ukraines incursion into Russias southern Kursk region in August. Kyiv had hoped its unprecedented invasion of mainland Russia, the first by a foreign country since the Second World War, would have hindered Moscows offensive operations elsewhere. Moscow said the capture of Kurakhove would allow its forces to seize the rest of the Donetsk region at an accelerated pace. Its defence ministry added that its apparent fall would significantly hamper Ukraines ability to supply the front lines around the city. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. North Korea could get Russian satellite tech, the US Secretary of State has warned. The tech would be in exchange for it sending troops to fight Ukraine, Antony Blinken said on Monday. The US and its allies have accused Russia and North Korea of trading arms and military technology. Russia could share satellite technology with North Korea in exchange for the troops it sent to fight Ukraine, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has warned. Blinken said the US had reason to believe that "Moscow intends to share advanced space and satellite technology with Pyongyang," during a press conference in Seoul on Monday. North Korea "is already receiving Russian military equipment and training," he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If confirmed, it would add to Russia's reported ongoing efforts to help North Korea advance its satellite launch program. Kim Jong Un, the North Korean leader, has repeatedly tried and often failed to launch satellites into space. The country said it had successfully launched a military spy satellite in November 2023. The most recent failure was when a rocket exploded during the first stage of flight in May last year. At the time, the South Korean news agency Yonhap reported, citing an unnamed senior defense official, that a "large number" of Russian technicians had entered North Korea to guide the country's space program ahead of the failed launch. In September 2023, Russian President Vladimir Putin promised Russia would help North Korea build satellites. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Having a satellite network would allow North Korea to identify targets to strike with its missiles and strengthen its ability to launch a preemptive strike against the US or its allies, giving them only a few minutes to respond. However, "brazen acts of unprovoked military violence" are not in North Korea's best interest, said Marco Langbroek, a satellite tracker and lecturer in optical space situational awareness at The Netherlands' Delft Technical University. "If anything, North Korea improving its intelligence position through a better reconnaissance satellite program with Russian help could help ease some of the North Korean paranoia regarding US and Allied activities in the region and avoid things getting out of hand by mistake," he added. Russia and North Korea's relationship has come under scrutiny in the past year after both countries signed a strategic partnership agreement in June, which requires the countries to defend each other in the event of aggression. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US and its allies had previously accused Moscow of sending raw materials, food, and technical expertise to Pyongyang in exchange for shipments of artillery ammunition and missiles that Ukraine has reported seeing on the battlefield. North Korea has also sent thousands of troops to aid Russia in its fight against Ukraine, officials from South Korea, Ukraine, and the US have said. Blinken suggested Russia-North Korea's relations could go deeper as Putin may be "close" to formally accepting North Korea's status as a nuclear power. He also described North Korea's deployment of artillery, ammunition, and troops as one of the "biggest ongoing drivers" that enabled Russia's war against Ukraine. Read the original article on Business Insider The energy crisis in Transnistria, triggered by Russia's Jan. 1 cutoff of gas supplies, is part of a broader Russian plan to manipulate and spread propaganda, Moldovan government spokesperson Daniel Voda said on Jan. 6. "Russian propaganda tries to create a story in which Moldova becomes a problematic actor, although the government has proposed clear solutions to avoid the crisis," he said. Gazprom, Russias state-controlled energy giant, halted gas deliveries to Moldova, citing alleged unpaid debts by Moldovagaz. Moldovan officials disputed these claims, noting an international audit failed to verify the debts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Transnistria, a Russian-occupied region since the early 1990s, relies heavily on Russian gas and has faced industrial collapse due to widespread power outages and heating failures. Voda said the crisis reflects Russia's deliberate effort to create fear and unrest. "This energy crisis is more than an economic problem it is part of a larger Russian plan of manipulation and propaganda designed to create fear and discontent on both banks of the Dnister." Nearly 72,000 homes and 1,500 high-rise buildings in Transnistria are without heating or hot water, according to Vadim Krasnoselsky, leader of the regions Russian-backed administration. Moldova previously offered to help Transnistria purchase gas through European platforms, but local Russian-backed authorities rejected the proposal, claiming Western energy prices are "higher and unstable." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The spokesperson criticized the refusal, calling it a failure to "cooperate for the benefit of the people." Russian propaganda has sought to blame Chisinau for the crisis, alleging that Moldovan authorities intentionally caused power outages to punish the region, Voda said. While a transit agreement for Russian gas through Ukraine expired on the same day, Gazprom maintains that Moldovas debts, not transit issues, prompted the suspension. While the rest of Moldova has transitioned to European energy supplies through Romania, Transnistria remains heavily dependent on Russian gas. Read also: Transnistrias electricity supply system faces collapse amid gas shortage, Moldovan official warns Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. In its final days, the Biden administration is poised to impose a new round of sanctions on Russian oil exports, marking a significant escalation in efforts to curtail Moscows energy revenues. These sanctions targeting tankers, traders and insurance companies involved in the transport of Russian crude oil are set to accelerate the reshaping of global oil supply chains, with possible headwinds for the shipping industry. A long-awaited crackdown The latest U.S. sanctions package is rumored to be expansive, encompassing two Russian oil companies and more than 100 tankers, as well as oil traders and Russian insurance firms. U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has indicated that the sanctions net may widen even further, potentially including Chinese banks involved in facilitating Russian oil trades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At their core, the sanctions would aim to enforce the $60-per-barrel price cap on Russian oil, a measure agreed upon by the G7 coalition, the European Union and Australia in 2022. This measure came as part of a broader strategy to limit Russias ability to fund its ongoing military operations in Ukraine, while still trying to minimize further disruptions to global energy markets. Lars Barstad, CEO of Frontline Management, one of the worlds largest publicly listed oil tanker operators, has raised alarm over the growing dark fleet of unregulated vessels used to circumvent these sanctions. All these vessels are trading outside the [U.N.s] framework, Barstad stated, highlighting the risks associated with these operations. They have been sleeping behind the wheel now for quite some time in respect of tankers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russias dark fleet is a shadow network of aging ships, with intentionally obscure ownership, that operate outside international maritime regulations. These vessels, estimated to make up about 20% of the worlds oil tanker fleet, pose significant safety and environmental risks. Barstad warns further, I think its only a question of time until we get a big one in other words, a major maritime disaster. In fact, Russia is currently contending with an ecological catastrophe in the Black Sea, following an oil spill that prompted a state-of-emergency declaration in Crimea. The incident, which occurred in mid-December, involved two aged oil tankers that succumbed to a storm, releasing heavy M100-grade fuel oil into the sea a type notorious for sinking rather than floating, complicating clean-up efforts. Authorities have cleared over 86,000 metric tons of contaminated sand and soil thus far, employing more than 10,000 responders in a large-scale effort to mitigate environmental damage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fallout has already proved severe, with notable losses of marine life such as dolphins and seabirds. Shifting sands The threat of additional sanctions, coupled with Europes growing interest in enforcing those already in effect, marks another decisive moment in the long-standing relationship between Russia and European energy markets. The recent cessation of Russian gas transit through Ukraine, effective Jan. 1, 2025, symbolizes the end of an era and underscores the shifting dynamics of global energy trade, as the U.S. has rallied to grow its share of the European market. The implications of these sanctions on global supply chains are far-reaching: Oil prices, a weighty factor in freight costs, are likely to face increased volatility. While the current market shows signs of oversupply, with crude prices averaging around $74 per barrel in 2024, the sanctions could lead to short-term price spikes and longer-term realignments in global oil trade patterns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pragmatic aim of the G7 sanctions was originally not to eliminate Russian energy exports altogether, but rather to give would-be buyers of Russian oil leverage in negotiating cheaper prices. But China and India, which have continued to purchase Russian oil at discounted rates, may face increased scrutiny under the coming Trump administration as well as possible secondary sanctions. This could force a recalibration of their energy procurement strategies, potentially opening opportunities for alternative suppliers such as the U.S. and/or Middle Eastern producers. Shippers pressed to improve compliance The shipping industry finds itself at the tip of the spear for enforcing the sanctions already in place as well as those to come. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Calls for enhanced regulatory measures and more rigorous inspections of vessels navigating important maritime pathways are growing louder. Critics argue that European governments have historically been reluctant to fully enforce existing regulations, often citing the potential for increased energy costs as a deterrent to implementing stricter enforcement. This perceived lack of resolve has led to accusations of allowing economic considerations to overshadow critical safety, geopolitical and environmental concerns. As the industry seeks to answer these critics with action, the long-term impacts on global energy strategies are becoming clearer. Europes aggressive pursuit of alternative energy sources, including American gas and supplies from Norway and Algeria, suggests a fundamental shift away from Russian energy dependence. This painful transition, while challenging for already-fragile economies in the short term, should lead to a more diversified and resilient global energy market. The post Russias oil future dims as US mulls new sanctions appeared first on FreightWaves. The Counter-intelligence Department of the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) has detained a group of Russian agents who planned to commit a large-scale terrorist attack at a unit of the defence forces in Kyiv Oblast with the help of a teenage bomber. Source: Security Service of Ukraine; Office of the Prosecutor General Quote: "According to the investigation, in December 2024, a minor resident of Kirovohrad Oblast, on the instructions of a Russian representative, was to plant an explosive device at the entrance to the premises of one of the defence forces units in Kyiv Oblast. The enemy planned to detonate the explosives remotely, together with the boy, after he entered the building. The boy did not know about that particular plan." Detention of the women who constructed tools for the terrorist attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo: Security Service of Ukraine Details: Two women from Vinnytsia Oblast had previously constructed the tools for the terrorist attack on the instructions of a Russian handler and left them at an agreed location. Another member of the group arranged the transfer of explosives between caches. Detention of the boy. Photo: Security Service of Ukraine It is reported that after arriving in Kyiv Oblast, the teenager checked into a hotel near the agreed place of the crime and acted on instructions that he received via Telegram from a representative of Russia. He collected a backpack that had been left at a pre-arranged location and contained an improvised explosive device and a Ukrainian military uniform. Detention of the boy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo: Security Service of Ukraine After changing into the uniform, he arrived at the scene and planted the explosives that had been disguised in his backpack. Thanks to the actions of law enforcement officers, the commission of the crime in a public place was prevented in time. During searches of the detainees homes, law enforcement seized mobile phones containing evidence of their cooperation with the Russians. The SSU also seized 1.5 kg of explosive mixture for the construction of an improvised munition from one of the agents. SSU investigators served the suspects with a notice of suspicion under two articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. The detainees are being held in custody without the right to be released on bail. They face life imprisonment and the confiscation of their assets. Support UP or become our patron! The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) uncovered a group of Russian agents who planned to carry out a mass terror attack involving a 16-year-old boy against a Ukrainian military unit in Kyiv Oblast, the SBU claimed on Jan. 6. The boy, disguised as a soldier, was allegedly instructed to plant explosives at an entrance to a military facility premises in December 2024. The plotters then intended to detonate the explosives remotely, killing the boy as well, the Prosecutor General's Office said, adding that the boy was not aware he was to be killed as part of the attack. Russia has been repeatedly accused of recruiting underage Ukrainians for sabotage operations against the Ukrainian military across the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The four suspects accused of involvement in the plot acted separately but under instructions of a single Russian handler, the SBU said. The weapons for the alleged terror attack had been previously manufactured by two residents of Vinnytsia Oblast. The boy arrived in Kyiv Oblast and settled in a hotel. According to the statement, he picked up a backpack with an explosive device and a military uniform left in a designated place. They were brought there earlier by another 19-year-old man, the SBU said. After changing his clothes, the minor arrived at the place and planted the explosives, which were disguised in the backpack, the SBU said. The counterintelligence agency reportedly uncovered the plot in advance and prevented the terror attack. All four suspects were detained. If charged, they can face life imprisonment with confiscation of property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Assassinations of pro-war figures seek to demoralize Russia, punish war criminals Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Russian attacks against Ukraine killed two civilians and wounded 21 over the past day, regional authorities reported on Jan. 6. Overnight, the Russian military attacked Ukraine with two Kh-59 aerial missiles, as well as 128 Shahed-type drones and dummy drones, Ukraine's Air Force reported. The air defense shot down the two Kh-59 missiles as well as 79 drones over 11 oblasts, while 49 dummy drones were lost in the airspace, the Air Force said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One person was killed, and 13 others were injured as a result of the Russian militarys attacks on the city of Kherson and 38 other regional settlements, Kherson Oblast Governor Oleksandr Prokudin reported on his Telegram channel. A man was killed, and a woman was injured in the Russian militarys attack in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, Governor Serhii Lysak reported on his Telegram channel. Seven people were also injured in Donetsk Oblast as a result of Russias attacks, Governor Vadym Filashkin reported on his Telegram channel. Read also: Russia claims to capture Kurakhove, Ukraine says fighting ongoing in the sector Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Russias Ministry of Defence announced on the morning of 6 January that the town of Kurakhove in Donetsk Oblast had been captured, but Ukrainian defenders have reported that Russian assaults continue in the city's urban areas. Source: Russian Ministry of Defence; Khortytsia Operational Strategic Group of Forces Details: The Russians describe the town as "a powerful fortified area with a developed network of long-term firing points and underground communications", as it is "covered by a reservoir from the north which significantly limited the manoeuvrability of Russian assault units". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraines Khortytsia Operational Strategic Group of Forces stated that as of the morning of 6 January, the Russians were conducting assault operations in Kurakhove's urban area, specifically in and around Petropavlivka and Dachne. Quote: "On the Kurakhove front, the enemy is conducting assault operations in the urban area of Kurakhove, in the area of Petropavlivka and Dachne. Measures to identify and destroy enemy assault groups attempting to infiltrate our combat formations are ongoing." Background: Overnight on 5-6 January, the DeepState analytical project reported the advance of Russian troops in a number of settlements in Donetsk Oblast: in Toretsk, Zelene and Petropavlivka, and near Vozdvyzhenka, Baranivka and Pishchane. Overnight on 1-2 January, DeepState analysts reported that the Russians had advanced in Kurakhove and five other settlements in Donetsk Oblast. On 23 December, Ukraines General Staff reported that fighting was ongoing in the urban area of Kurakhove. On the evening of 14 December, DeepState reported that Russian forces were continuing to advance into Kurakhove, gradually occupying the central part of the city. A video circulated by the Russians showed a Russian flag on the Kurakhove City Council building. Ukraines General Staff reported that Russian forces were conducting extensive assaults on the southeastern outskirts of Kurakhove, attempting to seize a road junction and a residential block in the city while also infiltrating it with sabotage and reconnaissance groups. Support UP or become our patron! A Russian drone strike targeted a bus in a Kherson neighborhood on Jan. 6, killing one person and injuring eight others, according to Ukraine's police. The man killed, Volodymyr Shum, 50, was a specialist in the municipal services and landscaping division of the Kherson City Council's municipal economy department. Among the injured were seven women, aged between 29 and 58, and a 21-year-old man, all of whom were hospitalized with blast injuries and are undergoing medical evaluation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kherson and settlements on the west bank of the Dnipro River endure daily Russian attacks as Moscow's forces maintain control of the rivers east bank. Prokudin reported an increase in assaults as Russian troops attempt to solidify their positions in the region. Kherson and its surrounding areas were liberated during Ukraines fall 2022 counteroffensive but remain under frequent bombardment. A Dec. 1 attack on a shuttle bus in Kherson killed three and injured eight, according to local authorities. Read also: Russian troops allegedly kill 3 Ukrainian POWs in Donetsk Oblast Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Russian troops have allegedly killed three Ukrainian prisoners of war in the southwest of Donetsk Oblast, Ukraines Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets wrote on his Telegram channel on Jan. 6. According to DeepState, a crowd-sourced information-gathering website on Russias war against Ukraine, Russian forces tied the soldiers' hands and shot them in the back of the head. "We are once again witnessing atrocities that demonstrate Russia's true face," the ombudsman said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reports of murders, torture, and ill-treatment of Ukrainian prisoners of war are received regularly by Ukrainian authorities and have spiked in recent months. Most cases were recorded in the embattled Donetsk Oblast. "On Jan. 3, near the village of Neskuchne, Volnovakha district, Donetsk Oblast, Russian soldiers committed a heinous crime they allegedly shot three Ukrainian prisoners of war," Lubinets said. The ombudsman added he would immediately appeal to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the United Nations. Russian forces have summarily executed 109 Ukrainian POWs in 2024 alone, Lubinets said in December. Executing prisoners of war is a gross violation of the Geneva Conventions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Russian commander linked to deadly strike in Ukraine severely injured in Russia after explosion Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Russians dropped explosives on a vehicle in Kherson on the morning of 6 January, injuring a 58-year-old man. Source: Kherson Oblast Military Administration Quote: "A resident of Kherson, who was injured in the morning in a Russian UAV attack on Kherson, sought medical treatment in the hospital." Details: It is reported that a man, 58, sustained a blast injury as a result of the explosives being dropped on his vehicle. Doctors are currently examining and assisting the victim. Support UP or become our patron! Three law enforcement officers were injured when the Russians launched an attack on the Kupiansk district of Kharkiv Oblast using their latest Molniya drone at around 12:00 on 6 January. Source: Oleh Syniehubov, Head of Kharkiv Oblast Military Administration, in a comment to Suspilne Quote: "The enemy is testing their new weapon. This Molniya-1 drone is basically made out of scrap, but it is still dangerous because it carries a combat charge." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Syniehubov said the injured police officers are currently in hospital and their condition has been assessed as moderate. Background: On Sunday, 5 January, Russian forces launched strikes on the city of Kharkiv using Molniya UAVs, damaging an administrative building at an industrial site and a house. In November, Russian troops used Molniya UAVs to attack residential buildings in Kharkiv, injuring three people. Support UP or become our patron! In the last three years of occupation, Russian authorities have demolished more than 500 residential buildings in the city of Mariupol, leaving residents homeless and ignoring their requests for new housing. Source: Mariupol City Council, citing appeals from residents of apartment buildings on Khmelnytskyi Boulevard in Mariupol Quote from Mariupol residents: "Our homes have been demolished and mortgage housing is being built in their place while weve been struggling for three years, living in rented apartments and dormitories." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Residents say that compensation housing projects have been halted and the city's pseudo-administration ignores all complaints and requests. Local residents say that Russians not only demolished their homes but also annulled the legal addresses where they lived. The Mariupol City Council reports that many residents, in desperation, have resorted to recording video appeals, but the occupation authorities have not responded. Background: Russian forces destroyed half of Mariupol's residential buildings during the blockade. More than 300 additional buildings have been demolished during the occupation. Support UP or become our patron! BILOZERSKE, Donetsk Oblast Less than 30 kilometers north of embattled Pokrovsk, a market was in full swing in the town of Bilozerske. Meters away, however, a crowd has gathered in front of a building, nervously awaiting the doors to open. Tensions were visibly mounting as the doors remained closed and impatience settled. An umpteenth air raid siren reminded everyone about the never-ending threat from Russian drones and glide bombs in the area. Nobody seemed to care about a potential attack. People were waiting for hours at the distribution point, seeking their turn to receive hygiene kits and water supplies. No one seemed to want to lose their place in the queue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anastasia Olekh, from the Caritas Mariupol non-government humanitarian organization, said that Bilozerske remains full of people in need, becoming a safe haven for those fleeting towns and villages closer to the front line. Prior to the full-scale invasion, there were around 15,000 people here. Since 2022, many have left, but we also saw an additional 5,000 displaced people coming from settlements of the Pokrovsk district directly under fire, Olekh said. The city of Pokrovsk, which once counted some 60,000 residents, now counts a mere 11,000 thousand, with Russian troops aiming to surround and occupy it while gradually turning the city into rubble. So far, Bilozerske has not been too affected by war, and its coal mine is still open, which means there is still work for civilians, but the living conditions are dire, Olekh added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Outnumbered and outgunned, Ukraine struggles to halt Russian advance near Pokrovsk Trapped near front Valentyna, a 65-year-old resident of Bilozerske, has chosen to stay in the town with her husband and their dog. Valentyna says she is aware of the danger, yet chooses, for now, to not leave because of the lack of funds and opportunities elsewhere. Compared to Sloviansk, Kramatorsk, or Pokrovsk, it is safer here as long as we are not being shelled, she said. We know that when they (the Russians) will reach Pokrovsk, they will try to finish us off here as well. But we simply dont have anywhere else to go, she added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We know that when they (the Russians) will reach Pokrovsk, they will try to finish us off here as well. But we simply dont have anywhere else to go. Valentynas biggest fear is glide bombs, which Russia has been increasingly using in 2024. Since they have started to launch them, we no longer feel safe. Our air defense can shoot down missiles, but not glide bombs; those are just terrible; thats why we are hoping for some kind of truce, through diplomatic channels, so that those bombs no longer fly, she said. Valentyna, 65, in Bilozerske, Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine on Dec.9, 2024. (Emmanuelle Chaze / The Kyiv Independent) Residents gathering in Bilozerske, Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine on Dec.9, 2024. (Emmanuelle Chaze / The Kyiv Independent) Not far from Valentyna, Olena, 42, was also standing in the queue. Olena used to work on a farm near Bilozerske, where she lives with her family. Im here with my 15-year-old daughter and my five-year-old son, she said, adding that she also takes care of her mother with cancer, thus unable to leave the town. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My main worry is my children, right now, they are cut out from the world, she added. Not far from the queue, local residents Svitlana and her husband were loading a months worth of water supplies in their car. The retired couple from Bilozerske had no intention of leaving. Over the deafening sound of sirens, Svitlana seemed annoyed even at the thought of evacuation, although theoretically, it is mandatory in the area. Look, my husband and I are both 72. We have lived in Bilozerske for the last 50 years. We got married here, our children grew up and were baptized here, what is the point of leaving? Obviously it is scary, but no, we will not be leaving, she said. Olena, 42, in Bilozerske, Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine on Dec.9, 2024. (Emmanuelle Chaze / The Kyiv Independent) Whether bound by financial constraints or memories of peaceful times at home, most civilians feel they have nowhere else to go, and while Bilozerske doesnt yet lie directly in the combat zone, some, who have already relocated once, simply feel trapped here for lack of better options. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anastasia came from Toretsk, which has seen some of the heaviest fighting since 2022. According to Ukraines military, the fighting is currently ongoing in the towns streets. Ive already moved once, a year ago, as the situation has become unbearable in Toretsk. Our flat has since been looted and then destroyed. I was already used to living in combat zone, so in comparison, things have been quiet here, Anastasia said. Anyway, I cant afford to move further away from the front line, you just have to look at the steep price rise for flats in Dnipro, in Poltava, for example, to understand why we stay here, she added. Leaving life behind Those who have relatives elsewhere or take safety over the potential hardship far from home make their way to Pavlohrad, in nearby Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following the Russian offensive targeting Pokrovsk, the city of Pavlohrad became the new evacuation hub for those fleeing the embattled Donetsk Oblast. Once home to 100,000 people and located 100 kilometers west from Pokrovsk, Pavlohrad is now overcrowded with people desperate to flee and officials and volunteers helping them get by. Around the clock, cars, buses, and vans are bringing those evacuated from Donetsk Oblast. What had been a theater hall is now a dormitory for those awaiting their train or bus further west. Residents are brought to a theater-turned-dormitory in Pavlohrad, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, Ukraine on Dec. 9, 2024. (Emmanuelle Chaze / The Kyiv Independent) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents are awaiting to continue their evacuation in a theater-turned-dormitory in Pavlohrad, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, Ukraine on Dec. 9, 2024. (Emmanuelle Chaze / The Kyiv Independent) Seats have been piled at the back of the hall to make way for folding beds. Blue care packages from the United Nations lie around. The theater hall is silent, but each of its residents bears the traces of war: in semi-darkness, a handful of elderly wait to be brought to a more permanent accommodation, surrounded by a few plastic bags containing all of the belongings they were able to take with them. Near the stage, a woman was sitting in a state of shock, surrounded by her two dogs. She came from Kurakhove, and counts among the last people evacuated from the city. On Jan. 6, Russia declared it had captured Kurakhove, a bombed-out town, the population of which decreased from 18,000 to a mere 2,000 people since the start of the all-out war. Exhausted, the woman can barely speak, and is in need of medical treatment. Near her, an elderly man with crutches was sitting on his bed, where he was taking notes in a small notebook, using his mobile phone as a torchlight. Another woman muttered unintelligible words to herself, folding and unfolding a few clothes on her bed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the corridor, Viktor, 66, a former miner, has just arrived from Myhrnohrad. His eyes were hollow, he was still shaking. Sitting on a bench, he was waiting for registration and would go whenever he was sent as long as it was safe. Viktor, 66, a former miner, in Myrnohrad, Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine on Dec.9, 2024. (Emmanuelle Chaze / The Kyiv Independent) There were soldiers in the streets, my city is no longer accessible and constantly under shelling. I dont have anywhere to go, nor do I want to get in touch with relatives in safer places. I heard I would go to a shelter in Kyiv Oblast, Viktor said. "There were soldiers in the streets, my city is no longer accessible and constantly under shelling." Disoriented and weak after having spent months with no water, no electricity, and no heating, Viktor followed humanitarian workers in the hall, where he would await a commute to his Kyiv Oblast accommodation. He said he knew he might never come back home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An evacuation was called by authorities of Donetsk Oblast during the summer and autumn, with police, the military and local and international NGOs helping with the evacuation effort. The work is carried out at great risk, as the Russian troops routinely use drones to target civilians and humanitarian workers all over the region. Despite the calls from officials, as of mid-December, around 300,000 civilians remained in Donetsk Oblast, out of which 54,000 lived directly in an active warzone, according to the Donetsk Military Administration. When asked why they would not leave the danger zone, those who spoke with the Kyiv Independent named two reasons tough decision to leave home and lack of opportunities elsewhere. The lights are on in windows of several apartments in a residential building on Christmas Eve in Pokrovsk, Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine on Dec. 24, 2024. (Yan Dobronosov/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images) Read also: Ukraine ends year battered, with Russian troops pushing north, east, and south Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. In yet another violation of the laws and customs of war, the Russians have shot three Ukrainian prisoners of war near the village of Neskuchne in Donetsk Oblast. Source: Ukrainian military analysis project DeepStateMap Quote: "On 3 January, the enemy stormed the position of the 141st Separate Infantry Brigade east of point 160.9. The soldiers surrendered. They were tied up, led out in front of the position, and shot in the back of the head. If the brigade is interested in finding the culprits, we hope they will provide the video to law enforcement agencies." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: DeepState reiterated that the killing and abuse of Ukrainian prisoners of war by the Russians is systematic and supported by Russias military and political leadership. Background: Dmytro Lubinets, the Ukrainian Parliamentary Commissioner for Human Rights, has said the number of cases of Ukrainian soldiers being executed by the Russians in 2024 was nearly double that of the preceding two years of the war. Support UP or become our patron! Russian troops have intensified their offensive to the east of Pokrovsk, attempting to encircle the city from the northeast. Source: Institute for the Study of War (ISW) Details: Analysts at the ISW noted that Russian forces had concentrated their efforts on trying to encircle Pokrovsk. Quote: "Russian forces began intensifying offensive operations east of Pokrovsk, and geolocated footage published on 1 January indicates that Russian forces recently seized Vozdvyzhenka (east of Pokrovsk). Geolocated footage published on 5 January indicates that Russian forces have likely also seized Svyrydonivka and Tymofiivka (both east of Pokrovsk) in recent days and advanced into southeastern Yelyzavetivka (south of Pokrovsk) during a platoon-sized mechanised assault." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More details: In its report, ISW noted that Russian military bloggers claimed to have established Russian sabotage and reconnaissance units north of Tymofiivka and along the T-0504 Pokrovsk-Kostiantynivka road. They also claimed that Russian troops had advanced north of Vozdvyzhenka towards Baranivka, Vodiane Druhe and Zelene Pole. However, ISW had not confirmed these claims. To quote the ISWs Key Takeaways on 5 January: Ukrainian forces resumed offensive operations in at least three areas within the Ukrainian salient in Kursk Oblast and made tactical advances on 5 January. Russian forces also advanced southeast of Sudzha and counterattacked against intensified Ukrainian attacks southeast of Korenevo and north of Sudzha on 5 January. Russian sources expressed concern about the Russian military's ability to react to Ukraine's ongoing combined arms efforts to integrate electronic warfare (EW) and long-range strike capabilities with ground operations. Russian forces recently advanced east of Pokrovsk amid renewed offensive operations in the area likely aimed at supporting the envelopment of Pokrovsk from the northeast. The recent intensification in the Russian 41st CAA's area of responsibility east of Pokrovsk indicates that the Russian military command is still considering the envelopment of Pokrovsk as one of their key operational objectives in this area. Russian forces may also be exploiting comparatively weaker Ukrainian defensive positions further east and south of Pokrovsk as part of an ongoing effort to seize any territory, regardless of such territorys relative tactical insignificance. Elements of the Russian 5th Motorised Rifle Brigade (51st CAA, formerly 1st Donetsk People's Republic Army Corps) are reportedly split between the Pokrovsk and Kurakhove fronts Russia's two most prioritised sectors of the frontline. Russian forces recently advanced near Borova, Toretsk, Pokrovsk, and Kurakhove. Ukrainian forces recently advanced in the Kursk salient and regained lost positions near Chasiv Yar. Support UP or become our patron! JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) Due to the dangerously low temperatures expected in the Jackson metro this week, some shelters will be open for those in need. The city, in partnership with Shower Power, will manage a temporary shelter at Shepards Gym at 1355 Hattiesburg St. (near Jim Hill High School). The shelter will be open to the public beginning at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, January 6 and will be open as long as needed. The city will consider opening an additional shelter depending on turnout. Food and cots will be available. Freezing temperatures arrive in Mississippi. Heres how to keep your home safe Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Jackson police, the Stewpot Opportunity Center will extend its hours to 22 hours each day until further notice. Stewpots Clothing Closet, located at 947 W. Capitol Street, will be open Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to noon, for those needing coats and blankets. The Salvation Army of Jackson opened its Center of Hope to serve as a Cold Night Shelter for men and women in need. The shelter, located at 110 Presto Lane in Jackson, will operate nightly during inclement weather. Details: Emergency Check-In: 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Note: The shelter is not equipped to serve children. Our mission is to meet the immediate needs of our community, especially during extreme weather conditions, said Major Timothy Delaney, commanding officer of The Salvation Army of Jackson. We invite anyone needing a warm, safe place to stay to come to our Center of Hope. For Assistance: Phone: (601) 982-4881 Email: timothy.delaney@uss.salvationarmy.org Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Weather Forecast Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. In a freewheeling interview with Bloomberg, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman unloaded on the company's board members who abruptly sacked him in November 2023 new perspective on the coup that fleshes out both the history of the company and Altman's chaotic character as a leading figure in the explosive AI industry. At the time, the board said it no longer had the "confidence in his ability to continue leading OpenAI," accusing him of not being "consistently candid in his communications." After being asked if he was "traumatized" by being booted from the company and the chaos that followed, Altman had some choice words for the former board members, many of whom stepped down following his reinstatement just over a week later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "And all those people that I feel like really fucked me and fucked the company were gone, and now I had to clean up their mess," adding that he was "fucking depressed and tired." "And it felt so unfair," the billionaire told Bloomberg. "It was just a crazy thing to have to go through and then have no time to recover, because the house was on fire." OpenAI quickly churned through several short-lived CEOs before rehiring Altman shortly afterward, a messy custody battle that shook the company and its public perception to its core. The company's board went through a major game of musical chairs, with esoteric chief scientist Ilya Sutskever who was one of the orchestrators of the coup and was quickly removed from the board as a result quitting in May 2024 in a fit of rage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time of Altman's dismissal, the company's board consisted of six people. Four of them voted to remove the CEO, and only one of them, Quora CEO Adam D'Angelo, stayed on the board following Altman's reinstatement. Meanwhile, many signs have suggested that Altman has been attempting to consolidate power at the top of the company's ranks after news emerged last year that the company was moving to restructure its core business into a "for-profit benefit corporation." After Bloomberg insinuated that he was being "sneaky" to turn the company into a competitive for-profit, Altman dismissed the turn of phrase, dismissing 2024 as a "crazy year." "Its a company thats moving a million miles an hour in a lot of different ways," he told the publication. "I would encourage you to talk to any current board member 12 and ask if they feel like Ive ever done anything sneaky, because I make it a point not to do that." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Altman, however, did appear more lucid about the chaos following his dismissal in late 2023. "The one thing Im more aware of is, I had had issues with various board members on what I viewed as conflicts or otherwise problematic behavior, and they were not happy with the way that I tried to get them off the board," Altman admitted in his interview with Bloomberg. "Lesson learned on that." Just over a year later, there are plenty of reasons to believe that Altman holds more power over OpenAI than ever before. Case in point, weeks after Sutskever left, OpenAI dissolved the safety-oriented Superalignment team he was once in charge of. Less than ten days later, OpenAI announced the creation of a new "safety and security committee" with Altman at the helm. More on OpenAI: Mother of OpenAI Whistleblower Alleges He Was Murdered, Says There Were Signs of Struggle Sam Altman wrote a blog post about his experience running OpenAI on Sunday. Altman said OpenAI would have fallen apart in 2023 without Ron Conway's and Brian Chesky's help. That was the year Altman was briefly ousted and then reinstated as OpenAI's CEO. OpenAI would have fallen apart back in 2023 without venture capitalist Ron Conway and Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky, Sam Altman wrote in a blog post on Sunday. Altman expressed his gratitude to Conway and Chesky in a blog post titled "Reflections," which detailed his brief ouster from OpenAI. Altman said the post was inspired by a recent interview he gave to Bloomberg, which was published on Sunday as well. "Ron Conway and Brian Chesky went so far above and beyond the call of duty that I'm not even sure how to describe it," Altman wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Altman was fired as OpenAI's CEO on November 17, 2023. The company's board said in a statement that it was removing Altman because he "was not consistently candid in his communications with the board" but did not elaborate further. Altman returned as CEO on November 22, 2023, after nearly all of OpenAI's staff threatened to quit if he wasn't reinstated. In his blog post, Altman said "there were a lot of people who did incredible and gigantic amounts of work" to help him and OpenAI when he was ousted, but Conway and Chesky "stood out from all others." "I've of course heard stories about Ron's ability and tenaciousness for years and I've spent a lot of time with Brian over the past couple of years getting a huge amount of help and advice," Altman wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "But there's nothing quite like being in the foxhole with people to see what they can really do," he continued. "I am reasonably confident OpenAI would have fallen apart without their help; they worked around the clock for days until things were done." Conway and Chesky, Altman wrote, gave him "great advice" and "stopped me from making several mistakes." The pair also tapped on their vast networks to assist him, Altman added. "I thought I knew what it looked like to support a founder and a company, and in some small sense I did," Altman wrote. "But I have never before seen, or even heard of, anything like what these guys did, and now I get more fully why they have the legendary status they do." Representatives for Conway and Chesky did not respond to Business Insider's request for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Conway and Chesky are longtime friends of Altman and were one of the first people he called after OpenAI fired him. What happened at OpenAI today is a Board coup that we have not seen the likes of since 1985 when the then-Apple board pushed out Steve Jobs. It is shocking; it is irresponsible; and it does not do right by Sam & Greg or all the builders in OpenAI. Ron Conway (@RonConway) November 18, 2023 Conway was also one of Altman's guest speakers when the latter taught a class on startups at Stanford University in 2014. Altman and Chesky's friendship, meanwhile, goes back more than a decade. Altman mentored Chesky when Airbnb was a part of Y Combinator, a startup accelerator. When Altman was fired from OpenAI, he briefly considered launching another AI startup but was discouraged by Conway and Chesky, The New York Times reported in December 2023. "You should be willing to fight back at least a little more," Chesky told Altman, per The Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OpenAI's board, Conway later told Time magazine, had fired Altman for "nitpicky, unfireable, not even close to fireable offenses." The billionaire venture capitalist had spoken to the magazine as part of a profile on Altman that was published in December 2023. "It is reckless and irresponsible for a board to fire a founder over emotional reasons," Conway told the outlet. Read the original article on Business Insider OpenAI CEO Sam Altman credited Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky and venture capitalist Ron Conway for helping him navigate his brief ousting from his own tech company in November 2023. They stopped me from making several mistakes and made none themselves, Altman wrote in a Sunday blog post. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman admitted his tech behemoth likely wouldn't be standing without some help from other executives. He credited Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky and venture capitalist Ron Conway, founder of angel investing firm SV Angel, for doing incredible and gigantic amounts of work with him during his brief ousting from his company in November 2023. Theres nothing quite like being in the foxhole with people to see what they can really do, Altman wrote in a Sunday blog post. I am reasonably confident OpenAI would have fallen apart without their help; they worked around the clock for days until things were done. Chesky and Conway achieved legendary status in Altmans eyes because of their ability to remain calm and offer advice and strategies, as well as use their respective networks to solve complex problems. They stopped me from making several mistakes and made none themselves, Altman said. What I will remember most, though, is their care, compassion, and support. In November 2023, Altman was fired from the AI company he cofounded in 2015 for failing to be consistently candid with the board, the company said at the time. However, after two weeks of an internal schism, which included 770 OpenAI employees threatening to quit should Altman not return, Altman was reinstated as CEO. The whole event was, in my opinion, a big failure of governance by well-meaning people, myself included, Altman said in his blog post. Looking back, I certainly wish I had done things differently, and Id like to believe Im a better, more thoughtful leader today than I was a year ago. Spokespeople for OpenAI, Conway, and Chesky did not immediately respond to Fortunes request for comment. Meetings of the minds Following his ousting, Altman's initial reaction was to start another AI company, he told Bloomberg Businessweek in an interview published Sunday. He planned to pitch ideas to investors alongside OpenAI cofounder Greg Brockman, who stepped down as president in solidarity with Altman before also returning to the position. Chesky and Conwayan Airbnb angel investor and one of the power brokers between Altman and OpenAIboth helped dissuade Altman from pulling the trigger on a project. You should be willing to fight back at least a little more, Chesky told Altman, the New York Times reported. CAMPO, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) Border Patrol agents with the San Diego Sector stopped a driver last Wednesday who had an active warrant issued by Texas law enforcement and was wanted for an alleged child abduction, authorities said Monday. Last Wednesday, around 9 a.m., agents assigned to the Campo station stopped an SUV traveling west on Interstate 8 near Buckman Springs Road while they were out on patrol. The driver, a 36-year-old woman, was accompanied by another adult female and a 6-year-old girl, CBP said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Camp Pendleton, Naval Base San Diego heighten gate security, but why? The agents confirmed the occupants identities through law enforcement databases and learned the driver had an active warrant for interference with child custody involving the 6-year-old in the SUV. The warrant was issued by the Fort Bend County Sheriffs Office in Texas. Following this discovery, the driver and child were taken to a local Border Patrol station, CBP said. The United States Marshal Service was contacted and took custody of the driver. Meanwhile, the child was placed with Child Protective Services until she is reunited with her family, authorities said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To report suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol, contact 911 or the San Diego Sector at 619-498-9900. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Photo courtesy U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. This article was produced by Capital & Main. It is published here with permission. Five years ago, police officers stopped Jose Armando Escobar-Lopez while he was driving to his home in Daly City near San Francisco with his partner and her brother. Without giving a reason for the stop, the officers questioned him about his immigration status and facilitated his transfer to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Escobar-Lopezs 2019 brush with ICE illustrates the obstacles the second President Donald Trump administration may face in pursuing mass deportations of immigrants. The ICE transfer, which happened during Trumps first term, was a violation of Californias recently enacted sanctuary law, which prohibits local law enforcement from cooperating with ICE. Immigration advocates rallied around Escobar-Lopez, who sued the city and won a settlement. He still lives in California today. Such violations of Californias sanctuary laws are now less frequent, said Angela Chan, a former senior staff attorney with the Asian Law Caucus who worked on his case and co-authored a report tracking sanctuary law violations. Weve shifted the practice statewide where the default is to not turn someone over to ICE, she said. Trump has vowed to carry out mass deportations on his first day back in office. However, that agenda will likely face significant obstacles in jurisdictions like California, where sanctuary laws limit cooperation between local law enforcement and ICE. During his first term, immigrant advocates secured the passage of a sanctuary law known as Senate Bill 54, or the California Values Act. Today, 11 states, including Oregon, Colorado and New York, have sanctuary laws that prevent information sharing with ICE, to varying degrees. Immigrant advocates are hopeful that these laws will thwart Trumps agenda. But the incoming administration is already devising ways to get around these laws, including increasing the presence of ICE agents in sanctuary jurisdictions. Trumps second term is likely to spark a cat-and-mouse game between the administration and sanctuary states, with federal officials ramping up immigration enforcement and threatening to withhold funding from states, while states prepare legal defenses and bolster policies to shield undocumented residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, the lack of cooperation from sanctuary cities is significant. Local and state law enforcement officers act as a force multiplier for ICE agents. More than 70% of ICE arrests made inside the U.S. are the result of handoffs from other law enforcement agencies, according to the Immigrant Legal Resource Center, a national nonprofit that advocates for immigrant rights. Sanctuary laws prevent these handoffs by blocking local and state agencies from sharing information or cooperating with ICE. Chan believes sanctuary laws will continue to throw a wrench in Trumps plans. Under Trumps first term, he was not able to deport as many people as he wanted, and he actually deported less people than under the Obama administration, because of local and state sanctuary laws like Californias that prevented him from being able to do that, Chan said. How the Trump administration could attempt mass deportations Even before Trump takes office, his administration is clashing with sanctuary jurisdictions. In November, Trumps appointee for border czar, Tom Homan, lashed out at Los Angeles city officials for adopting a sanctuary policy. If you dont wanna help, get the hell outta the way, he said on Newsmax. If I gotta send twice as many officers to L.A. because were not getting any assistance, then thats what were going to do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Homan also threatened to slash federal funding to sanctuary states that oppose deportations something Trump tried in 2020. California won its lawsuit blocking the Trump administration from placing immigration enforcement conditions on federal law enforcement grants. The state is preparing for a repeat; during a special session in early December, lawmakers introduced a bill to set aside $25 million for legal fees to respond to the administrations attacks on state policies, including immigration. Still, there are actions Trump can take on day one to roll back protections for immigrants even for people in sanctuary states. One of his earliest moves could be canceling Biden administration orders. He could reverse an order that prioritized deporting undocumented immigrants who committed serious crimes, or had recently arrived, while deprioritizing those deemed non-threatening, according to Muzaffar Chishti, senior fellow at the Migration Policy Institute. That will happen reasonably close to day one, Chishti said. Trump could also cancel a Biden-era order directing ICE to avoid arrests at sensitive locations like courts, schools, hospitals and places of worship, warned Jehan Laner, senior staff attorney for the Immigrant Legal Resource Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration could end Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), which allows undocumented individuals brought to the U.S. as children to stay and work, but in an interview with NBC in early December, Trump said he was open to working with Democrats to pass legislation to allow them to stay in the country. Trump has also repeatedly threatened to scale back Temporary Protected Status, which provides temporary residency to people from countries experiencing conflict or natural disasters. Trump is likely to prioritize deporting people who have final removal orders, as they have exhausted most of their legal options. Where is the lowest-hanging fruit of low resistance? That will be people with final orders of removal, Chishti said. These actions will shrink protections for certain groups, but the Trump administration will still confront significant impediments in its efforts to arrest, detain and deport people, Chishti said. Those who are likely to be targeted are spread out across the country, and workplace raids and home arrests require a warrant or consent to enter. Also, immigrants are entitled to due process. Another major challenge is a lack of detention capacity. Building detention facilities requires funds appropriated by Congress and time to construct the necessary facilities. The American Immigration Council estimates the cost of building detention centers and alternative detention programs such as ankle monitors with GPS tracking at more than $700 billion. That makes a mass deportation, from a logistical point of view, not an easy sell, Chishti said. He added that deportations require the cooperation of countries that may refuse to accept deportees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps deportation agenda will be easiest to carry out in Republican states that are eager to offer their resources, including deploying their National Guards. Texas, for instance, is already using the National Guard for border enforcement. The administration can also send the military to provide logistical support, such as transportation and maintaining infrastructure, Chishti said. But blue states are vowing legal challenges if the administration attempts to federalize the National Guard or send troops across state lines. Trump said in the NBC interview that his deportations would begin by targeting undocumented immigrants who have committed a crime, and then branch out to include people without criminal backgrounds. Coordinating with jail and prison systems is one way to identify undocumented immigrants with criminal records, Laner said. Many sanctuary states, including California, still allow prisons and jails to facilitate transfer of prisoners to ICE. How sanctuary jurisdictions can limit Trumps plans One way sanctuary states can get ahead of the administration is to pass new laws to close loopholes that allow prisons and jails to cooperate with ICE. These stronger laws already exist in Oregon and Illinois, Chan said. California State Attorney General Rob Bonta told The Guardian in November that officials should explore options to reinforce and strengthen the states sanctuary law. Although were very proud of the California Values Act and the impact its made in protecting Californians, at this point, its not the strongest policy in the country, Chan said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She suggested that Gov. Gavin Newsom use his pardon power to prevent deportations. In 2021, Newsom pardoned two formerly incarcerated firefighters who were at risk of deportation to Laos. They were released from ICE detention and returned to their homes in California. Although sanctuary laws prevent local and state officers from cooperating with ICE, Chan said immigrant advocates still must play a watchdog role to ensure agencies comply with the law. In California, Chan and other advocates filed records requests and sued noncompliant police agencies until the sanctuary law SB 54 became the status quo. What I learned from SB 54 is that laws dont implement themselves, Chan said. We breathed life into that law by being so organized in how we implemented it. Were going to need to do the same under Trump 2.0. If that all goes well, I think we will have a pretty strong defense against the Trump administrations attacks on our communities, she added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Trumps threats are already creating a chill. What he will definitely accomplish is instilling a real sense of fear in immigrant communities, Chishti said. People who fear that they or their family members are at risk will not report crimes or assert their rights. They will live in the shadows. Thats a dark outcome, without even lifting a finger, he said. Copyright 2025 Capital & Main A 43-year-old Santa Ana man has been arrested in connection with a pair of assaults in Santa Ana Sunday afternoon, including a fatal stabbing in a McDonalds parking lot. The attacks occurred just after 3 p.m. at a shopping center near Bristol Street and Sunflower Avenue, the Santa Ana Police Department said. First, a woman was punched multiple times in what Officer Natalie Garcia called an unprovoked attack, and immediately after that, a man was stabbed in the chest in the parking lot of McDonalds, 3810 S. Bristol St. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Man fatally stabbed in parking lot of McDonalds in Orange County: police The woman is in stable condition, but the man was pronounced dead at a local hospital. His identity has not been released, but officials confirmed he was a 43-year-old Santa Ana resident. The two victims were unrelated, police added in an update. Anthony Carlin is shown in a Jan. 5, 2024, image provided by the Orange County Sheriffs Department. Justin Anthony Carlin is being held at the Santa Ana Jail on murder and other charges. Anyone with information is asked to call homicide detectives at 714-245-8390 or Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS. Sofia Pop Perez contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) conducted a drone attack on one of Russia's largest commercial seaports, Ust-Luga, in Leningrad Oblast on Jan. 4, an intelligence source told The Kyiv Independent on Jan. 6. According to the source, Ukrainian long-range drones flew over 900 kilometers (559 miles) and almost reached St. Petersburg. The source shared a video purporting to show one of the drones hitting gas condensate tanks. One tank was heavily damaged, and three others suffered damage from explosive debris, they added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Experts suggest that it will take at least a month to repair the facility and will lead to interruptions in the terminal's operations. 0:00 / 1 "The Ust-Luga terminal is a major logistics hub in the Baltic Sea. Russia sells oil and gas via it with the help of the 'shadow fleet.' Drone sanctions from the SBU reduce the flow of currency that Russia needs to wage war," the source said. The Kyiv Independent could not verify these claims. The Jan. 4 attack on the Russian port in Leningrad Oblast is not the first attack of its kind. On Jan. 24, 2024, Novatek's gas-condensate plant caught fire at the port of Ust-Luga following a possible coordinated effort by Ukraine to strike key targets deep inside Russian territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ust-Luga Commercial Seaport began operations in December 2001 with the opening of a coal terminal. In the early 2020s, it became one of the largest seaports in Russia. Read also: Over 54,000 Russian targets were hit with Ukrainian drones in December, Syrskyi says Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. director of strategy and operations for Google's global data centers, speaks to a crowd of some 100 attendees at the technology company's groundbreaking in Dorchester County Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024. (Jessica Holdman/SC Daily Gazette) COLUMBIA Industries pledged in 2024 to invest $8.19 billion in South Carolina facilities over the next five to 10 years, according to the state Department of Commerce. The economic development agencys recruitment efforts resulted in the third-highest year of planned investment in the states history and a promise of 5,500 new jobs over the next several years. Time will tell whether the announced investments and jobs become reality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The states highest year on record was 2022, when a flurry of electric vehicle and solar energy-related companies boosted jobs and investment vows to $10.27 billion and more than 14,000 jobs. Data centers accounted for the largest investment sector in 2024, with $4.1 billion total announced by Google and Facebooks parent company, Meta. The automotive sector announced $1.3 billion in investments and aerospace giant Boeing promised a $1 billion expansion, according to the Commerce Department. With the latest announcement by Boeing, the companys total investment since coming to the Palmetto State in 2009 now tops $3 billion. Nearly two-thirds of the promised investment total came from expansions by existing companies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement South Carolina remains dedicated to the success of our businesses, for the economic betterment of our people and the overall strength of our economy, Gov. Henry McMaster said in a statement. The decision of so many companies to expand and reinvest here underscores the unique value South Carolina offers as a trusted partner in their success. By building upon industries in which we have established ourselves as a national leader like automotive and advanced manufacturing while unlocking potential in emerging sectors, we can create more high-wage, high-skill economic opportunities, Secretary of Commerce Harry Lightsey added. In exchange, South Carolina offered up $23 million in grants to cover the cost of new roads, water, power, site work and other improvements. In addition, the state approved 26 companies for income tax breaks for each new job. Many counties likely also offered up tax incentives of their own to reduce the property taxes owed by the employers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other large planned investments include: As classes resume Monday in Clay County, some school zone lights are not working due to a technical issue, according to a post on the sheriffs office Facebook page. The post warns drivers to observe school zone speed limits even though some flashing lights will not be functioning. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Due to a technical issue, some school zone lights may not be activated and we ask everyone to please drive safely and observe posted school zone speed limits within the school zones regardless of the operation of the flashing lights, a portion of the sheriffs office Facebook post states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< Read: JSO: Gunman opens fire on residence, shoots man through bedroom wall Read: Were standing on principle: Nocatee group walks 3.5 miles Sunday in face of possible legal challenges Read: Jimmy Carters state funeral has started. Heres what to know [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] All schools in Clay County are opening Monday morning, January 6, at normal times and all school zones will be in... Posted by Clay County Sheriff's Office, Florida on Sunday, January 5, 2025 Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. Missing duck hunters Wesley and Andruw Cornett. (Butte County Sheriff's Office) Authorities have found the second body in their search for two brothers who had gone missing during a duck-hunting trip in Northern California last month. Andruw Cornett, 19, and Wesley Cornett, 17, of Yuba County were last seen hunting in the Thermalito Afterbay downstream of Lake Oroville on Dec. 14, according to the Butte County Sheriff's Office. Andruw Cornett's body was found on Dec. 31. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the weekend, authorities told the Sacramento Bee they believed the body of Wesley was discovered in the water off Highway 162 by a passerby. Divers with the Butte County Sheriff's Office were already in the area as part of the search for the teen when the citizen called 911. The divers were able to recover the body and DNA test results confirmed it was Wesley, Butte County sheriff's officials announced in a news release Monday. "We send our condolences to the family and friends of Wesley and Andruw Cornett during this devastating time," the Sheriff's Office said in a statement. "We would also like to thank the many allied agencies and volunteers who assisted in the search." Authorities say the brothers were in trouble soon after entering the water three weeks ago. Andruw Cornett called 911 about 8:30 a.m. on Dec. 14 and reported his brother had overturned in his kayak, sheriff's officials said. A dispatcher advised him not to go into the water and to stay in his own kayak, according to authorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Andruw Cornett insisted on jumping into the water to save his younger brother, sheriff's officials said. Both brothers were eventually submerged in the water and neither were wearing life jackets. A Butte County sheriff's deputy arrived on the scene about 15 minutes after the 911 call, according to sheriff's officials, and the search was underway. The boy's mother called Andruw a hero for jumping into the water to try to save his younger brother. This is a freak accident that my family and I are trying to wrap our heads around and we also have four girls at home who we still need to care for, April Clark wrote about her sons in a GoFundMe post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Family and friends held a vigil on Saturday night not far from where Wesley's body was discovered. 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. As Britain is gripped by a prisons crisis, The Telegraph is publishing dispatches from an inmate at a Category B jail the second highest level of security to discover what life is really like inside. Recently, the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) found the jail to be chronically overcrowded and understaffed, with self-harm and drug use rife. The inmate, a British professional and entrepreneur on the outside, is on remand awaiting trial charged with non-violent crimes, which he denies. To protect his identity, he is not named. Other names and nicknames have also been changed. As you would expect, we prisoners have a lot of time to chew over the rights and wrongs of the charges which brought us here. The most interesting stories are around how evidence is generated by the police and used by the CPS. Of the many prisoners who complain of unreliable evidence or suspect procedure, the most vociferous and persuasive are the EncroChat defendants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EncroChat was an encrypted communications app highly popular with criminals who paid hundreds of pounds a month to use it. It seems only criminals were prepared to hire EncroChat handsets (you could not upload EncroChat onto an ordinary smartphone and all you could do with most EncroChat devices was to send texts or photos, so the functionality was pretty basic). Around five years ago EncroChat was hacked by French intelligence. This sounds like a great achievement for law enforcement: gangsters texts were intercepted, their historical texts trawled through, millions of pounds of drugs were seized and major players jailed. The problem is that EncroChat convictions now appear to be happening even when there has been no demonstrable correlation with physical evidence - no seizures of actual weapons, no actual drugs, no actual cash. And it appears that data allegedly sent and received through the EncroChat app may often have no corresponding data with actual Encrochat handsets either. It is not that EncroChat evidence is always flawed. Take the case of Kreme, a gas fitter by trade who used grass and coke and sold it to a circle of friends in relatively small amounts (not so negligible that he didnt supplement his income by a couple of grand a month). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kreme found the EncroChat evidence he faced specified much higher quantities of drugs than he was actually dealing. As he was never caught with any, his convictions depend wholly on the integrity of the EncroChat hack. And the problem is that EncroChat seems to be accepted by judges as unquestioningly as speed camera data is accepted by magistrates. Co-defendants Keith and Dale have more serious issues with EncroChat. Both have just received huge sentences of more than 15 years, You would have thought they had been caught with the illegal drugs. Not so. You would therefore assume that the closest possible scrutiny of digital evidence against them would be permitted. Not so either. And you would have hoped, therefore, that with neither physical evidence nor exhaustive digital evidence they would not have been held in custody for four years without trial. But they were. Both men admitted they sold drugs but both were adamant at trial that they did not recognise the huge deals arising from EncroChat allegations - the evidence for which was written up as a spreadsheet tabulated by the UKs National Crime Agency, received via Interpol. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And there is one overriding problem that confronts defence teams in England whose clients are faced with EncroChat evidence. They cant see it. The French Gendarmerie claim that the method used to harvest EncroChat data is a state secret and cannot be disclosed. Naturally, some lawyers across Europe have expressed concern at the use of EncroChat data, insisting that those accused of crimes cannot check the accuracy or authenticity of evidence being used to prosecute them. Subtle and complex moral questions lie around the justice systems treatment of innocent criminals - not quite an oxymoron, if you think about it. People found guilty, or who have pleaded guilty, to one offence often fail to defend themselves against others. We feel indignant about the sub postmasters whose lives were destroyed by Horizon software, but that is because even when they pleaded guilty (in order to avoid prison) they were really innocent. But we dont feel so indignant about a drug dealer who holds his hand up to the drugs but resolutely denies, for example, a firearms offence, and is then held for years awaiting trial. This is BBs EncroChat nightmare. BB, who is paranoid about being identified, has undergone a huge wait for trial featuring multiple adjournments - in part, he says, because the CPS attempted to introduce new evidence during his trial. One hearing collapsed because of the prosecutions professional embarrassment. The next attempt to put him on trial is scheduled for September 2025: by then he will have been in custody for five years. Having admitted he is a drug dealer, it seems that he is already on the cusp of exceeding the maximum sentence he could have faced for the drugs alone. On the weapons charge, the Prosecution found a cache of firearms near a mast which BBs EncroChat phone had bounced off - that was the full extent of the firearms evidence against him. There are not communications about firearms in his EncroChat print-out. BB even has a witness, prepared to identify as his coke-using customer, who lives near the mast, thereby explaining why his EncroChat phone bounced off it. Yet by the time of his next trial, only a firearms conviction will justify his detention for so many years without trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Preparing for EncroChat trials seems to take an inordinate amount of time: trials are being tabled for 2025 and, no doubt, subsequent years, arising from arrests which happened five years ago. Defendants are almost invariably kept on remand, not bail. Initially, the finger was pointed at Covid for such delays, but it is becoming apparent that an Encrochat trial commonly requires a difficult and prolonged pre-trial process in which judges oversee hearings in which defence teams raise objections about the origin, reliability and legality of proposed CPS evidence. Of course, there are huge challenges involved in investigating organised crime, which is more often a step ahead of law enforcement than a step behind. So successful was the Encrochat hack in some criminal circles that, before it became public knowledge, a number of violent attacks and killings took place in gangland because dealers, who retained unquestioning faith in the app, believed the only explanation for a bust was that the other party had ratted on them. One further reason why EncroChat suspects have been held on remand for vast lengths of time is that the police withheld the source of their information in order not to compromise ongoing operations. But when it comes to waiting, the legal system is spectacularly indifferent to time. In Bleak House, Charles Dickens exposed the interminable misery of courts which passed cases not merely down the years but from generation to generation. Dickens lived in an emphatically pre-digital age, mired in paperwork. But EncroChat throws up comparable questions about the digital mires of our brave new world. My hunch - in prison, it can only be a hunch - is that EncroChat is the source of some serious miscarriages of justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Next week the Secret Prisoner gets a candid letter from a female admirer! Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. North Korea has fired an unidentified ballistic missile, the South Korean military said on Monday. North Korea launched the missile towards the East Sea, also known as the Sea of Japan, South Korean news agency Yonhap cited the general staff in Seoul (JCS) as saying. The launch came as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was in Seoul to meet with South Korean government officials. North Korea is prohibited by UN resolutions from launching or even testing ballistic missiles of any range. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These are usually surface-to-surface missiles that can also be equipped with a nuclear warhead. Pyongyang has significantly expanded its missile tests over the past two years, while sharpening its rhetoric against the US and South Korea. It has also strengthened its military cooperation with Russia. Several dozen Ukrainian soldiers undergoing training in France are reported to have deserted, although the phenomenon has not been widespread. Source: French news agency AFP, citing a French army official, as reported by European Pravda Details: The official noted that "there have been a certain number of desertions, but they remain very marginal given the volume of people who have undergone training". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They were in French barracks, they had the right to go out," he added. The 155th Mechanised Brigade named after Anna of Kyiv, currently deployed on the Pokrovsk front, has undergone training in France. [Anna of Kyiv was a princess of Kyivan Rus who became Queen of France in 1051 upon marrying King Henry I ed.] Background: Ukrainian journalist Yurii Butusov claimed at the end of December 2024 that the brigade had been improperly formed and supplied, citing problems with personnel, equipment and ammunition, which has caused it to suffer losses. Ukraine's State Bureau of Investigation later confirmed it was conducting an investigation into charges of abuse of power and desertion. According to Butusov, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy took the situation with the 155th Brigade under his personal control during a meeting of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief's Staff. Support UP or become our patron! (WPRI) As more people become infected with respiratory illnesses, some hospitals are seeing fewer open beds and higher wait times in emergency rooms. Southcoast Health, which owns Charlton in Fall River and Saint Lukes in New Bedford, told 12 News there has been an influx of patients infected with the flu, COVID, pneumonia and RSV. Due to the increase in illnesses, they have seen higher than anticipated wait times and in rare situations, delays in bed availability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The clinical teams at all three of our hospitals have been doing an excellent job triaging and caring for patients while ensuring they are all receiving high-quality care in a timely manner, Executive Vice President Renee Clark said. Southcoast Health is encouraging everyone to stay up to date on vaccinations, do routine preventative screenings, and get care early in the right places. Jessica Wharton, a spokesperson for Brown University Health, said their facilities are seeing a similar uptick in respiratory cases. Hospitals nationwide tend to experience higher patient volumes during the holiday season, Wharton said in a statement. We appreciate your patience as our emergency rooms are open and committed to providing exceptional care to all patients. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brown University Health encourages anyone experiencing respiratory issues to consider going to an urgent care center for the their initial evaluation. These centers are well-equipped and offer the same viral testing and chest X-ray capabilities, ensuring timely and effective care, Wharton added. NEXT: Nasty norovirus is back in full force with US cases of the stomach virus surging Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. Buddhist nuns in Nepal are once again performing martial arts for the public after a five-year break caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The women recently put on a show for onlookers at their religious community, called a monastery, outside the capital Kathmandu. The performance was attended by reporters from Reuters news agency. Members of the hilltop Druk Amitabha Monastery are part of the 1,000-year-old Drukpa religious organization. The group gives nuns equal status to male community members called monks. The Drukpa lineage includes the only female order in the male-led Buddhist monastery system. The nun community was established in 2009 and now has 300 members between the ages of six and 54. The nuns come from Bhutan, India and Nepal. They are all trained in kung fu, the ancient Chinese style martial art that promotes self-defense and strength. In their recent performance, the nuns were seen moving their hands quickly and kicking their legs high, with some holding swords. Hundreds of people gathered to watch the performance and cheered the group on. Usually, such religious organizations expect nuns to cook and clean and not practice any form of martial arts. But one monk, Gyalwang Drukpa, decided to train women in kung fu to improve their health and spiritual well-being. He has a position just slightly below the Dalai Lama in the Tibetan Buddhist leadership. Jigme Jangchub Chosdon is a 23-year-old nun who came from Ladakh in India. She told Reuters, We do kung fu to keep ourselves mentally and physically fit, and our aim is to promote women's empowerment and gender equality." Another performer was 24-year-old Jigme Yangchen Gamo, a nun from Ramechhap in Nepal. She said, "With the confidence from kung fu, I really want to help the community, young girls to build their own strength." The nuns website explains that the combination of gender equality, physical strength and respect for all living things represents the order's return to its "true spiritual roots." In the past, the nuns have traveled long distances on foot and by bike in the Himalayas to raise money for disaster relief and to promote environment-friendly living. Another member of the group is Jigme Konchok Lhamo, a 30-year-old nun from India. She said her main goal for the future is to reach enlightenment like Lord Buddha, who founded Buddhism 2,600 years ago. She added, "But for now as I am a normal person... I think I will be focusing more on helping others. Helping others is our religion." Im Jill Robbins. Gopal Sharma reported this story for Reuters. Jill Robbins adapted it for Learning English. _______________________________________ Words in This Story nun n. a woman who is a member of a religious community order - n. a religious organization whose members usually live together and promise to follow special rules and traditions confidence n. a feeling or belief that you can do something well or succeed at something enlightenment - n. Buddhism. a final spiritual state marked by the absence of desire or suffering What do you think of this story? Write to us in the Comments Section. Earlier this year, a Virginia woman was charged with child abuse after being connected to jarring injuries a newborn suffered in a neonatal intensive care unit in a hospital where she worked as a nurse. Now, she has been released on bond. Erin Elizabeth Ann Strotman, 26, of Chesterfield County, was charged with malicious wounding and felony child abuse, as stated in court records and by the Henrico County Police Division. On Wednesday, she was granted a $25,000 secured bond. According to ABC 7 Eyewitness News, the judge believed Strotman did not appear to pose a flight risk or a threat to herself after she underwent a mental health evaluation. The outcome of the evaluation was sealed after it was presented in court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While on bond, Strotman must wear a GPS monitor while under house arrest at her parents home. She is prohibited from being around children and cannot provide health care services to anyone of any kind. Strotmans parents must also remove all guns from their home. Strotman was arrested last month after police investigated three different babies that suffered unexplained fractures in the newborn care unit of Henrico Doctors Hospital in Richmond November and December. In a statement, the hospital described Ms. Strotman as a former employee that received her nursing license in May 2019, and her certification remains active. Though Strotman has been connected to only a single incident, The Washington Post reported that officers reviewed hundreds of hours of surveillance footage from the hospital to see what happened to at least seven babies between 2023 and 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If found guilty, Strotman faces a maximum of a decade in prison for the felony child neglect charge and 20 years for the malicious wounding charge. A preliminary court hearing for Strotman is set for May. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) Several school districts- and divisions in the the DMV said they will be closed on Monday, Jan. 6 due to the winter storm is expected in the region. DC metro areas could see roughly 6-8 inches of snow, according to forecasts. As a result, the following schools will be closed to students on Monday: Virginia Public schools: Fairfax County Public Schools Alexandria City Public Schools Arlington County Public Schools Culpeper County Public Schools: Students will not return to school until Wednesday, Jan. 8, as Tuesday has been designated a staff workday. Falls Church City Public Schools Fauquier County Public Schools Fredericksburg City Public Schools: Students will not return to school until Wednesday, Jan. 8, as Tuesday has been designated a staff workday. Spotsylvania County Public Schools Stafford County Public Schools Rappahannock County Public Schools Frederick County Public Schools Prince William County Public Schools Loudoun County Public Schools Private schools: Alexandria Country Day School Burgundy Farm Country Day School Congressional School Christ Chapel Academy The County Day School- McLean Fairfax Baptist Temple Academy Flint Hill School Highland School Oak Hill Christian School Ideaventions Academy for Mathematics and Science Saint James Episcopal School The Langley School Westminster School VDOT: Avoid driving in parts of Virginia due to weather conditions DC Public schools: DC Public Schools Capital City Public Charter School KIPP DC Mundo Verde Bilingual Public Charter School Private schools: Aidan Montessori School Capitol Hill Day School Lowell School National Cathedral School St. Albans School The Lab School of Washington Maryland Public schools: Montgomery County Public Schools Prince Georges County Public Schools Howard County Public Schools Frederick County Public Schools Charles County Public Schools Anne Arundel County Public Schools Allegany County Public Schools Cecil County Public Schools Washington County Public Schools: As of Sunday, a Code Orange is in place for employees. Wicomico County Public Schools Baltimore County Public Schools Harford County Public Schools Garrett County Public Schools: As of Sunday, Code Orange is in place for employees. For a complete list of closings and delays, click here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Written around 1592, William Shakespeares play Richard III follows the reign of Englands infamous monarch and charts the path of a charismatic, cunning figure. As Shakespeare depicts the kings reign from June 1483 to August 1485, Richard IIIs kingdom was wrought with chaos, confusion and corruption that fueled civil conflict in England. As a scholar of Shakespeare, I first thought about Richard III and his similarities with Donald Trump after the latters debate with President Joe Biden in June 2024. Those similarities and Shakespeares depictions became even clearer after Trumps election in November 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shakespeares play highlights the flawed character of a man who wanted to be, in modern terms, a dictator, someone who could do whatever he pleased without any consequences. In his 1964 essay, Why I Stopped Hating Shakespeare, writer James Baldwin concluded that Shakespeare found poetry in the lives of people by knowing that whatever was happening to anyone was happening to him. It is said that Shakespeares time was easier than ours, but I doubt it, Baldwin wrote. No time can be easy if one is living through it. A villain? In Act 2, Scene 3 of Shakespeares play, a common citizen says Richard is full of danger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Woe to the land thats governd by a child, the citizen further warned. Beyond hiring murderers to kill his own brother, Shakespeares Richard was keen on belittling and distancing himself from people whom he viewed as being not loyal or being in his way including his wife, Anne. To clear the way for him to marry his brothers daughter his niece Elizabeth Richard spread what now would be called fake news. In the play, he tells his loyalists to rumor it abroad that Anne, my wife, is very grievously sick and likely to die. Richard then poetically reveals her death: Anne my wife hath bid this world goodnight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet, before her death, Anne has a sad realization: Never yet one hour in Richards bed / Did I enjoy the golden dew of sleep. That sentiment is echoed by Richards mother, the Duchess of York, who regrets not strangling damned Richard while he was in her accursed womb. As Shakespeare depicts him, Richard III was a self-centered political figure who first appears alone on stage, determined to prove himself a villain. In Richards opening speech, he even says that in order to become king, he will manipulate his own brothers George, the Duke of Clarence, and King Edward IV, in deadly hate, the one against the other. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But as his villainous crimes mount up, Richard shares a rare moment of self-awareness: But I am in / So far in blood that sin will pluck on sin. Shakespeares Richard III and Trump While the details of Trumps and Richards lives differ in many ways, there are some similarities. Much like Trump during his first term, Shakespeares Richard did not lead with morals, ethics or integrity. Richard lied compulsively to everyone, as his soliloquys that contain his innermost thoughts make clear. An illustration of English writer William Shakespeare (circa 1600). Rischgitz/Getty Images Like Trump, Richard used empty rhetoric to persuade people with sugared words he was not interested in speaking or promoting truth. Moreover, Shakespeares Richard was a sexist and misogynist who verbally and physically disrespected women, including his wife and mother. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the play, for example, Richard calls Queen Margaret, widow of King Henry VI, a foul wrinkled witch and a hateful withered hag, thus disparaging her older age. He refers to Queen Elizabeth, wife of Edward IV, as a damned strumpet or prostitute, which she wasnt. Additionally, in order to cast doubts on his nephews legitimate claims to the throne, Richard spread false rumors about his mother, claiming that she was unfaithful. Kamala Harris shakes hands with Donald Trump before their debate. AP Photo/Alex Brandon For his part, Trump has no shortage of disparaging remarks about women. He once called his Democratic presidential rival Hillary Clinton the devil and characterized former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi as crazy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump repeatedly peppered Vice President Kamala Harris during the presidential campaign with sexist and racists attacks. He initially refused to pronounce her name correctly and openly mocked her racial identity as a Black woman, even questioning her Blackness. A new day? Like Trump, Richard III used religion to manipulate and confuse public perception of his amoral image. In the play, Richard stages the equivalent of a modern-day photo op, standing between two churchmen with a prayer-book in his hands. Much like Richard, Trump has courted evangelicals and used organized religion to his political advantage, most publicly by selling a God Bless the USA Bible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps 2020 photo op in front of St. Johns Church in Washington is another example. It occurred during protests over the murder of George Floyd, an unarmed Black man killed by a white police officer. Police in riot gear used tear gas to force protesters away from the White House; then Trump was escorted to the nearby church along with several administration officials. As a political leader, Richard III left a legacy in English history as one of Englands worst monarchs. That legacy includes his decisive defeat in the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485 that led to his death and to a new era for England under King Henry VII. After winning the throne, the new king offered a message of hope that suggested England would one day emerge from its time of civil discord: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Let them not live to taste this lands increase That would with treason wound this fair lands peace! Now civil wounds are stopped, peace lives again. That she may long live here, God say amen. 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: David Sterling Brown, Trinity College Read more: David Sterling Brown receives funding from the Mellon Foundation and American Council of Learned Societies. NORTH TEXAS "Well, this is a proclamation from the U.S. Treasury Department," said Shallie Bey, pointing to a framed document. Shallie Bey Jr. / Credit: CBS News Texas This proclamation stands as a testament to the strides Fort Worth resident Shallie Bey Jr. made as the head of the United States Mint in Philadelphia from 1978 to 1981, from introducing the Susan B. Anthony coin to improving plant safety and leading the production of billions of coins. "But none of that could have happened unless he had the confidence to say, 'I'm gonna give you the chance to do it,'" said Bey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Jimmy Carter was the one who gave him that chance. "I was the first African American and also the youngest person in history to be assigned to manage the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia," said Bey. At just 29 years old, Bey was nominated by President Jimmy Carter to become the 16th superintendent of the United States Mint in Philadelphia. Years later, President Carter nominated him for a second time, to be the chairman of the Philadelphia Federal Executive Board, where he oversaw the collaboration between 83 agencies and 53,000 employees. "Here I was, 29 years old, and I was dealing with people who were admirals and generals and so forth, and they were taking my advice seriously and acting on it, and that was a phenomenal experience," said Bey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bey recalls attending an event at the White House with his wife and the kindness of President Carter and his team. "We had a child on the way, and they were just making very major efforts to make sure that she was going to be comfortableall kinds of attentiveness," said Bey. "That was the way that he was. He didn't have to do things like that, and his wife didn't have to do things like that, but that was the nature that everybody was important to them." Throughout his presidency, Carter prioritized diversity in the government. It's a legacy that's not lost on public servants like Bey. "He was concerned about everyone having an opportunity," said Bey. "He was concerned about all kinds of people, and so it didn't matter many of the things that we allow to become differences between people and classes of people, but he made an effort to keep everyone involved." Massive winter storm expected to bring heavy snow, ice, cold to 25 states How Oakland's Creative Growth enabled generations of artists Rise and shine with sunrise photographer Bugsy Sailor By Danielle Broadway BEVERLY HILLS, California (Reuters) -"Shogun," FX's historical epic set in imperial Japan, claimed the prestigious best drama television series trophy at Sunday's Golden Globes Awards ceremony and "Hacks," known for its complex female stand-up comedian, claimed the best comedy win. A tale of political machinations, "Shogun," also won best female and male acting awards for first-time winners Anna Sawai and Hiroyuki Sanada. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Thank you for everyone that has been in my life. All of you have brought me here," Sanada said following his win. "For the young actors and creators in the world, believe in yourself and never give up," he added. The series won four awards in total, including the best supporting male actor for first-time Globe winner Tadanobu Asano who plays Kashigi Yabushige, the Lord of Izu. "Shogun" follows the character Lord Yoshii Toranag, played by Sanada, as he discovers secrets that can help him destroy his enemies. "Hacks" took home two awards, including best female actor in a comedy for Jean Smart who plays stand-up comedian Deborah Vance in the Max series. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I never thought I'd be so happy to be called a hack," she said during her acceptance speech. Other noteworthy winners included "Baby Reindeer" from Netflix for best limited series or anthology. "People were crying out for something that kind of spoke to the kind of painful inconsistencies of being human," Richard Gadd, who plays stalker victim Donny Dunn, said while accepting the award. Jessica Gunning won best female supporting actor for her role in "Baby Reindeer" as stalker Martha Scott. Colin Farrell also took home the award for best male actor in a limited series or anthology for his role as villain Oswald Cobb in Max's "The Penguin." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2023, Eldridge Industries purchased the Golden Globe assets with Dick Clark Productions (DCP), and the Hollywood Foreign Press Association - which was criticized for a lack of diversity and ethical lapses in its stewardship of the awards - was shut down as a consequence. Under the new ownership, the organization has expanded to 300 journalists from 75 countries around the world and 60% racial and ethnic diversity. (Reporting by Danielle Broadway and Lisa Richwine;Editing by Mary Milliken and Himani Sarkar) TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) Gunmen opened fire on a bus carrying Israelis in the occupied West Bank on Monday, killing three people and wounding eight others. Violence has surged in the territory since Hamas Oct. 7, 2023, attack out of Gaza ignited the ongoing war there. The shooting occurred in the Palestinian village of Al-Funduq, on one of the main east-west roads crossing the territory used by both Israelis and Palestinians. Israels military said two 70-year-old women and a 35-year-old policeman were killed. Widespread operations have been launched in the area looking for the attackers. Palestinians have carried out scores of shooting, stabbing and car-ramming attacks against Israelis, especially during the past 15 months of the Israel-Hamas war. Israel has launched near-nightly military raids across the territory that frequently trigger gunbattle with militants. There has also been a sharp rise in attacks on Palestinians by Israeli settlers, leading the United States to impose sanctions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to reach the despicable murderers behind Mondays attack and settle accounts with them and with everyone who assisted them. No one will be spared. Hamas praised the attack in a statement, but did not claim responsibility for it. War in Gaza continues amid rumors of ceasefire While there has reportedly been recent progress in long-running talks aimed at a ceasefire and hostage release, the war in Gaza rages on with no end in sight. Separately on Monday, Ahmed al-Farra, director of the childrens ward at Nasser hospital in the southern Gaza City of Khan Younis said a 35-day-old infant froze to death inside his familys tent in the humanitarian area designated by the Israeli military on Friday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gaza Health Ministry official Zaher Al-Wahidi said babies and most children cant tolerate weather conditions when temperatures dip low as 3 degrees Celsius. Aid groups say Israeli restrictions, ongoing fighting and a breakdown of law and order in many areas make it difficult to provide desperately needed food and other assistance, and there is a shortage of blankets and warm clothing. There is little wood for fire and the tents and patched-together tarps families are living in have grown increasingly threadbare after months of heavy use. Ongoing violence in the West Bank The Palestinian Health Ministry says at least 838 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire in the West Bank since the start of the war in Gaza. Most appear to have been militants killed in battles with Israeli troops, but the dead also include participants in violent protests and civilian bystanders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least 46 Israelis, including 19 soldiers, have been killed in violent attacks by Palestinian militants, according to the U.N. Israel captured the West Bank, Gaza and east Jerusalem in the 1967 Mideast war, and the Palestinians want all three territories for their future state. Some 3 million Palestinians live in the West Bank under Israeli military rule, with the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority administering population centers. Over 500,000 settlers with Israeli citizenship live in well over 100 settlements across the territory, ranging from small hilltop outposts to sprawling communities that resemble suburbs or small towns. Most of the international community considers the settlements illegal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The war began when Hamas-led militants stormed across the border in a massive surprise attack nearly 15 months ago, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting around 250. Some 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, at least a third of whom are believed to be dead. Israels air and ground offensive has killed over 45,800 Palestinians in Gaza, according to local health authorities, who say women and children make up more than half of those killed. They do not say how many of the dead were militants. The Israeli military says it has killed over 17,000 fighters, without providing evidence. ___ Associated Press writer Melanie Lidman in Jerusalem and Fatma Khaled in Cairo contributed to this report. ___ Follow APs war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) Centenary College of Louisiana kicks off 2025 with a year-long celebration in their historic bicentennial year, turning 200 years old. WATCH LIVE: All Centenary College Sports home games here The college was founded in 1825, making Centenary the oldest higher education institution in Louisiana and the oldest chartered liberal arts college west of the Mississippi River. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement First, of the events and gatherings, the college will host a birthday celebration on Wednesday, 1.8.2025, in honor of being founded in 1825. 2025 will be composed of various events, celebrations, and gatherings: A special exhibit at the Colleges Meadows Museum of Art Neighborhood party during the Krewe of Highland Mardi Gras parade An alumni trip to Centenarys original campus in Jackson, Louisiana Campus art stroll showcasing the talents of the Centenary community The bicentennial commemoration concludes with a gala event, Spotlight Centenary, in December 2025 Additional events will be announced via an official bicentennial website, centenary200.com Centenarys long history is intertwined with that of our city, state, and region, and we are excited to have the opportunity to celebrate that legacy with the community in Shreveport-Bossier City and beyond throughout our bicentennial year, said Centenary president Dr. Christopher L. Holoman. We look forward to ongoing educational excellence, continued growth, and meaningful community engagement in our third century. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more information about the Centenary bicentennial celebrations, contact Holly Grose, Assistant Director of Stewardship and Donor Relations, at 200years@centenary.edu. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. For a company like Kia, whose reliability ratings have been steadily improving over time, theres no joy in ringing in the New Year with a recall. The NHTSA recently made public a recall issued by South Korean automaker Kia, noting an absence of critical fasteners on certain vehicles. Kia will recall more than 23,000 of its 2024-2025 EV9 SUVs because they say the second- and third-row seat mounting bolts may be missing. And while this is a catastrophe on its face, it's an even worse situation for one individual considering Kia is blaming the problem on a sole factory worker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Read on IEN: NHTSA says in its recall report that a plant assembly worker was responsible for applying the bolts at the Kia Autoland Gwangmyeong assembly plant in South Korea. After a customer complained, random testing actually uncovered the issue on three vehicles all of which were traced back to the same individual on the production line. The recall involves tens of thousands of these vehicles because the period in which this worker was responsible for the fastening task stretched across a full year from Sept of 2023 to Oct of 2024. Kia says the bolt issue could cause affected vehicles seats to come loose in a crash, negating the benefits of a seatbelt. While all of the recalled vehicles will be subject to inspection, the automaker says you might know yours is impacted if the seat feels loose or if you can hear a rattling noise. Click here to subscribe to our daily newsletter featuring breaking manufacturing industry news. Sir Thomas Pilkington, 14th Bt, who has died aged 90, was a leading figure on the Turf as senior steward of the Jockey Club and chairman of the British Horseracing Board; he was also a patriarch of the British maritime industry as chairman of his familys historic shipping business, and the owner of landed estates in Hertfordshire and the north of England. Tommy Pilkington was immersed in racing all his life: one of his first notable winners was Isle of Skye at Cheltenham in 1960. He joined the Jockey Club then the sports governing body in the mid-1970s, served as chairman of Newmarket racecourse on the clubs behalf and was chosen in 1994 for a four-year term as senior steward. It was a sensitive time for the sport, both financially and reputationally not least in the aftermath of the 1993 Grand National, which the Jockey Club had ruled should be re-run after a chaotic false start. Pilkingtons predecessor as senior steward, Lord (Stoker) Hartington, was moving across to chair the British Horseracing Board, newly created to take over large parts of the Clubs historic function. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a veteran owner, breeder and steward, Pilkington brought authority and depth of knowledge to the role. He knew the Clubs members, listened to their views, strove to maintain morale and though not inclined towards change by nature, embraced it where he felt it would help the sport thrive. Towards the end of his tenure, a fierce row within BHB provoked the resignation of Hartingtons successor, the Tory politician Lord Wakeham, in protest at what he considered an absolutely potty financial plan, dependent upon 80 million of government funding siphoned from betting duty receipts. Pilkington a supporter of the plan but well respected on all sides was asked to step up for six months as acting BHB chairman until the plans author, Peter Savill, was elected to take over in June 1998. Intimidatingly tall, with the straightest back in Britain: Pilkington at Royal Ascot in 2010 - Dominic O'Neill Thomas Henry Milborne-Swinnerton-Pilkington was born in London on March 10 1934 to Major Sir Arthur Milborne-Swinnerton-Pilkington MC, 13th Bt, and his wife Elizabeth, nee Harrison. The baronetcy to which Thomas succeeded aged 18 on his fathers death was granted to Arthur Pilkington of Stanley in Yorkshire in 1635 as one of many such titles created by Charles I to encourage early English settlers in Nova Scotia. Educated at Eton, Tommy played in the First XI, with the future Hampshire captain Colin Ingleby-Mackenzie, against Harrow at Lords. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His fathers family seat was Chevet Hall at Wakefield, but the house was demolished in the mid-1950s after mining subsidence and the land was sold to become a country park. Elsewhere, Tommy inherited a fine grouse moor in the Peak District. In 1966, through his mother (the eldest of eight daughters), he also inherited his Harrison grandfathers extensive Kings Walden Bury estate in Hertfordshire. There, he knocked down the Victorian mansion in which he had spent part of his childhood and replaced it with what Country Life magazine described as arguably the most handsome country house built since the war, designed by probably the two most convinced Classicists practising today, Raymond Erith and Quinlan Terry, and completed in 1971. After National Service in the 9th Lancers and Royal Scots Greys, Pilkington started work with Thos & Jas Harrison, the Liverpool-based shipping venture of which his great-great-grandfather Thomas Harrison was the founder, with his brother James, in 1853. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Originally a shipper of wine and brandy from Cognac and the Charente valley, the Harrison partnership managed the Charente Steamship Co, which at its peak before the First World War operated 70 vessels sailing to Central and South American, India and the Far East. Pilkington learnt the trade in Trinidad before becoming the firms representative in South Africa, based in Durban for several years. Joining the board of directors in the early 1960s, he was closely involved in the shift to containerisation as British shipping diminished and consolidated. Under Pilkingtons chairmanship of more than 25 years, until 1999, Harrison and Charente transitioned to a diversified portfolio of bulk carriers, joint-venture container interests and related areas of ship agency, marine instrumentation and charts. Other investments included a stake in the ventures of the North Sea oil and African mining entrepreneur Algy Cluff, for whose company Pilkington became the long-serving deputy chairman. Cluff a friend for 60 years recalled Pilkington as intimidatingly tall, with the straightest back in Britain and an aura of incipient gloom which resulted in him never being surprised when things went wrong but never losing his sense of proportion when things went very right. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a travelling companion in remote parts of Africa, Pilkington was a complete rock, and such was his stature as a colleague and adviser that nothing was decided in the Cluff boardroom without passing the What would Tommy say? test. Sir Thomas and Lady Pilkington at Ascot in 2022 - Maureen McLean/Shutterstock Meanwhile, Pilkingtons lifelong love of racing was reinforced by family connections. His mother, Elizabeth Burke after her second marriage, became a celebrated breeder in Ireland. His sister Sonia Rogers owned the Airlie Stud in Co Kildare and was the first female member of the Turf Club. His second sister, Moira, married the Newmarket trainer Ben Hanbury; and his third sister Carole was the mother of the National Hunt trainer Henry Daly, with whom Pilkington had numerous successes. He also had horses in training with John Dunlop and Bruce Hobbs in earlier days and latterly Hughie Morrison and Marcus Tregoning. A member for 30 years of Tattersalls committee (which adjudicates betting disputes), he loved the cut and thrust of the ring as much as the excitement of seeing his own horses run. He watched his Jour DEvasion finish second at Sandown in November and attended his last Jockey Club meeting a few days before he died suddenly, during lunch at Whites with an old friend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He married, in Durban in 1961, Susan Adamson, who survives him with their son Richard, who succeeds as 15th Baronet, and daughters Sarah and Joanna. Sir Thomas Pilkington, Bt, born March 10 1934, died December 17 2024 Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. A sixth person has died following the car-ramming attack at a Christmas market in the eastern German city of Magdeburg. A 52-year-old woman succumbed to her injuries in hospital, a spokesman for the public prosecutor's office in Naumburg told dpa on Monday. The attack on December 20 saw a 50-year-old man drive a car into crowds attending the market, killing a 9-year-old boy and five women aged between 45 and 75. At least 299 injuries were reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect, from Saudi Arabia, is in custody. He was previously involved in seven police investigations between April 2023 and October 2024. According to the public prosecutor's office in Naumburg in the state of Saxony-Anhalt, of which Magdeburg is the capital, investigators are due to commission an expert opinion to determine whether the suspect is mentally ill. Security provisions at the market are also under investigation. According to the state's interior ministry, escape and rescue routes were not secured with steel chains, while a police vehicle was parked metres away from its intended location. The impeachment late last month of South Koreas acting President Han Duck-soo has deepened political division in the country. He had replaced President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was impeached earlier in December. Two impeachments suspending the countrys top two officials in a short period of time has never happened before in South Korea. Now, the deputy prime minister and finance minister, Choi Sang-mok, is the new temporary leader. When he took power, Choi quickly ordered the military to increase readiness in the event of an act of aggression by North Korea. Diplomats communicated with important partners including the United States and Japan. Duyeon Kim is an expert with the Center for a New American Security in Washington, D.C. Kim said: (Hans) impeachment now creates an opportunity for external threats. How Han was impeached Before Yoon declared martial law on December 3, Han Duck-soo was the prime minister and the second highest official in South Korea. Lawmakers impeached Yoon on December 14 over his martial law order. Han tried to ease the concerns of South Koreas major diplomatic partners and to calm its financial markets. However, he became involved in a political dispute with the opposition Democratic Party, or DP. DP lawmakers demanded that Han immediately appoint three justices to seats on the Constitutional Court to rule on Yoons impeachment. The court normally has nine justices. Currently three seats remain open. Han refused to fill the open seats. He said he would not appoint justices without the approval of both the DP and the governing People Power Party, or PPP. Choi Jin is director of the Institute of Presidential Leadership based in Seoul. He said Han lacked a good reason not to appoint the justices. But Choi said the DP should not have moved to impeach Han so quickly. International surprise Hans impeachment came as South Korean officials told international partners that the situation was returning to normal. Officials in Japan, Europe and the United States had been surprised by Yoons declaration of martial law. Duyeon Kim said: South Korea is now in a far more serious crisis of leadership and governance, adding that, Han had the experience and credentials to deal with both security and financial crises. Kim expressed concern that the leadership situation would harm the economy, culture and industry. What might happen? The governing party argues that Hans impeachment is invalid because it is based on a simple majority of the 300-member National Assembly. The PPP says a two-thirds majority is necessary. It has brought a case before the Constitutional Court to consider the impeachment vote of Yoon. The Constitutional Court has 180 days to decide on the legality of both impeachments. Han called his impeachment regrettable, but said he respects the assemblys decision. If Yoon is ousted, then a national election must take place within 60 days. Yoon faces several separate investigations into possible wrongdoing linked to his martial law declaration. DP leader Lee Jae-myung is favored to win a possible presidential election. However, Lee faces legal cases as well. He was found guilty of election law violations in November. He is appealing the ruling. If Lee becomes president, his trials would be suspended because South Korean law does not permit a sitting president to face legal action for most crimes. Im Mario Ritter Jr. Hyung-Jin Kim reported this story for the Associated Press. Mario Ritter, Jr. adapted it for VOA Learning English. __________________________________________ Words in This Story impeachment n. (political) an action that is defined in a countrys constitution that is part of a process for removing the executive officer from power for a crime or wrongdoing opportunity n. a good chance for advancement or progress external adj. not inside something but outside of it invalid adj. being without foundation or force in fact, truth, or law credentials n. (usually pl.) qualities or abilities that make someone able to do something; documents that state a person is permitted to do a certain job We want to hear from you. (KRON) A Stockton couple was arrested last week by San Jose police in connection to a narcotics investigation that uncovered over a dozen illegal firearms along with thousands of dollars worth of designer clothing and accessories, according to the San Jose Police Department. Police in San Jose began the investigation after intercepting a fentanyl sale within the city on Dec. 3, 2024. The suspect, identified as 37-year-old Justin Dixon, routinely traveled from his residence in Stockton to sell narcotics in San Jose and San Francisco, according to SJPDs Street Crimes Unit. Tesla driver arrested for randomly threatening, pepper-spraying man in San Mateo Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators said Dixons girlfriend, Jade Linhthasack, 26, of Stockton, was involved in purchasing firearms and providing them to Dixon, who is prohibited from owning them. On Thursday, Dixon and Linhthasack were arrested in Stockton after police served arrest and search warrants with assistance from the Stockton Police Department SWAT Team, Covert Operations Unit and the Gang Violence Suppression Unit. SJPD said the search warrant for Dixons residence uncovered: 13 illegal firearms, including an assault rifle, a semi-automatic pistol and a rifle with illegal modifications Approximately 5,000 rounds of various ammunition Various firearm parts and magazines Large quantities of illegal narcotics, including cocaine, oxycodone, promethazine, cannabis and other illegal prescription medications Thousands of dollars worth of designer brand watches, purses, shoes, clothing and accessories Gold and diamonds (San Jose Police Department) Of the 13 recovered firearms, authorities said two were stolen, two had destroyed serial numbers and two were unregistered. The designer items were believed to be purchased with the money obtained from illegal firearm and narcotics sales, according to SJPD. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dixon was booked into San Joaquin County Main Jail for possession of illegal firearms and narcotics sales. Linhthasack was booked into San Joaquin County Main Jail for charges in connection to the illegal firearms. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A delegation of Slovakia's far-right MPs, led by Deputy Speaker and leader of the nationalist party SNS Andrej Danko, is set to travel to Russia in January to "develop dialogue" following the visit by Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico. Source: Slovak television channel ta3; European Pravda Details: According to ta3, the delegation will also include members of the ruling SMER-SD party Tibor Gaspar, Richard Gluck, Adam Lucansky and two other lawmakers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Danko stated that the purpose of the visit is to restore normal relations with Russia through meetings with Russian parliamentarians and government representatives. Quote: "Speaking in [Russias] State Duma is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It is an honour for any politician. I am proud to join the approximately 30 world leaders who have spoken there." More details: Danko believes that after a long period of disengagement, parliaments should take the first step towards restoring communication. "Prime Minister Robert Fico initiated this dialogue and it is now the parliaments task to advance it," Danko added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Previously: The visit to Moscow is scheduled for 10 January and has been approved by Peter Ziga, the acting Speaker of the Parliament, meaning it will be financed from the Slovak budget. Background: Slovakia has repeatedly sought to extend the agreement between Ukraine and Russia on Russian gas transit, which expired at the end of 2024. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is not considering renewing the agreement with Gazprom for gas transit and made it clear that Kyiv will not agree to transport Russian gas under the guise of Azerbaijani gas. Against this backdrop, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico made a controversial visit to Russia, where he met with Russian leader Vladimir Putin. Support UP or become our patron! (Reuters) - A meeting between Slovak, Ukrainian and European Commission officials over gas supplies planned for Tuesday has been cancelled because Kyiv will not participate, Slovakia said on Monday. The Commission is seeking a new date for a meeting, the government of Slovakia's pro-Russian Prime Minister Robert Fico said in a statement. Fico has accused Kyiv of damaging Slovakia by not extending a transit deal for Russian gas, and has threatened to cut electricity flows to Ukraine and reduce aid for its refugees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kyiv has said the end of gas transit deprives Moscow of revenue as long as Russia continues to attack Ukraine. Slovakia has arranged alternative gas sources and routes, but Fico has argued that the end of Ukraine's transit of Russian gas meant that Slovakia lost its own transit revenue and had to pay more to bring gas from elsewhere. Fico put the cost for Slovakia at 500 million euros ($519 million) and said he would seek the restart of the flows or compensation. The Slovak government caps gas prices, so may face increased costs if it pays more for gas. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has accused Fico of opening a "second energy front" against Ukraine on the orders of Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine, whose power infrastructure has suffered from Russian bombing, has synchronised its grid with the European Union and has been trading electricity through high-voltage connections with Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and Romania. Its energy minister has said Ukraine could make up for a potential cut in flows from Slovakia, which accounted for about 20% of the country's imports. It was not immediately clear how Fico planned to restrict the flows, which include commercial supplies as well as emergency aid, at times when Ukraine needs it. ($1 = 0.9627 euros) (Reporting by Jan Lopatka and Jason Hovet in Prague; Editing by Jan Harvey and Alexander Smith) A small airplane crashed outside a home in Temple City early Monday, fire officials said. Los Angeles County firefighters responded about 8 a.m. to reports that a single-engine plane crashed in a neighborhood in the 4900 block of Arden Drive in Temple City. The plane crashed into some greenery outside a home, but did not hit any structures, said Luis Garcia, a spokesman for the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Badly burned workers, 'chaotic' scene inside O.C. warehouse where plane crashed Firefighters are assessing two people who were inside the plane for injuries, Garcia said. Further information about their conditions was not immediately available. TV news footage from the scene shows a plane wedged between a cluster of trees and a house. It is not clear what caused the plane to crash. The crash in Temple City comes days after a small plane crashed into a commercial building in Fullerton, killing two people and injuring 18 others. 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. Theres a possibility snow will fall in South Carolina at the end of the week, and people in the Columbia area could see some of the white stuff. Theres a good chance for precipitation in the Midlands on Friday night and into Saturday morning, National Weather Service meteorologist Chris Rohrbach told The State on Sunday. While the forecast is uncertain six days out, its possible temperatures could drop low enough that the precipitation could be snow, according to the National Weather Service. If snow forms overnight Friday, its expected to be more than flurries of snowflakes whipping around in the air, Rohrbach said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It could be the first time since January 2022 that there is snow on the ground in the Columbia area, according to Rohrbach. Between 1 and 3 inches of snow was recorded across the Midlands during that winter storm. That storm was the first time any measurable amount had fallen on Columbia since 2017, and prior to that Columbia hadnt had more than an inch of snow since 2014, the National Weather Service said. Again, its too early in the current forecast cycle to say how much if any snow will accumulate overnight Friday. But should there be snowfall, its remnants likely wont be around for long. If it snows, the precipitation is predicted to transition back into rain, which could wipe out any signs of accumulation, Rohrbach said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its also too early to tell whether theres a chance of black ice forming on Columbia-area roads, Rohrbach said. In the Columbia area, rain is expected to begin Friday night, the forecast shows. Multiple forecasts predict that temperatures will drop into the low 30s overnight, creating the possibility of snow. Evening rain (will be) followed by a mix of rain and snow late, according to weather.com. Temperatures are forecast to rise into the 40s by Saturday afternoon. A low of 27 degrees is possible overnight Saturday, but theres currently a very limited chance of more precipitation at that point. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The current forecast shows temperatures are expected to be well below the freezing point leading up to Friday. Lows in the mid-20s are predicted Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights, and highs will only rise into the 40s during the day. A wind advisory was issued for Richland and Lexington counties as well as all of the Midlands, according to the National Weather Service. It will go into effect at 6 a.m. and is scheduled to run through 7 p.m. Gusty winds are expected beginning Monday morning with some wind gusts over 40 mph, the National Weather Service said. Sustained winds are expected to be as fast as 10-20 mph, according to the National Weather Service. Powerful winds could blow around unsecured objects and cause considerable damage to trees and branches, which creates the possibility of downed power lines and outages. Some rain is expected Monday, when temperatures could reach a high of 61 degrees, according to the forecast. Following those showers, conditions are predicted to be cold and dry until Friday. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) With several inches of snow expected in D.C., a cherished tradition is set to return to the District Monday. Snow is expected to begin making landfall in the region late Sunday. According to weather forecasts, most of the DC metro area is expected to see 8 to 10 inches of snow. As a result, snow lovers can gather for a friendly group snowball fight to kick off the winter season. The Washington DC Snowball Fight Association (DCFSA) announced in a social media post that it will host The Great Meridian Chill Battle of 2025 at 11 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 6, at Meridian Hill Park in Northwest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mayor Bowser declares snow emergency for DC The tradition goes back to Feb. 6, 2010, when the DCFSA held its first mega-event. The battle is free to attend; however, the DCFSA reminds participants of the following: Anyone participating does so at their own risk. Anyone behaving recklessly is individually responsible for the consequences. Do not throw ice or pelt at moving vehicles. Please follow any instructions of the National Park Police or Metropolitan Police Department. Dress appropriately for the weather and activity. Protecting your eyes with goggles is encouraged. Stay home if youre recovering from a medical condition. See you on the battlefield! said the DCFSA in a Facebook post. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Dont stop if you can avoid it. Theres a big difference in the amount of inertia it takes to start moving from a full stop versus how much it takes to get moving while still rolling. If you can slow down enough to keep rolling until a traffic light changes, do it. CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) In Washington D.C., the Social Security Fairness Act has been signed into law. The legislation was passed on a bi-partisan vote and will eliminate policies that restrict social security payouts for nearly three million Americans. Congressman Richard Neal told 22News he has worked for a solution to this issue for the past two decades. Millions to get higher Social Security payments from bill Biden is signing Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After years of hard work, more than 2 million retired public servants will sleep easier knowing relief from the negative impact of the WEP and GPO is on the way, said Congressman Neal. I proudly supported this legislation in the House, and I did so because teachers, firefighters, police officers, and all affected public servants deserve a dignified retirement. Its an overdue step in guaranteeing peace of mind for these retirees, including the more than 100,000 affected in Massachusetts. While this moment is something weve fought so hard for, our work is not done. Just yesterday, Republicans put the nation on notice that major cuts to their health care are on the line in exchange for their billionaire handouts and three Senators voted to make major cuts to Social Security, continued Neal. Democrats will always stand up for the American worker and their retirement security. After a lifetime of work, our retirees deserve protection of their hard-earned benefits, and soon President Biden will sign H.R. 82 into law, and we will have delivered. The legislation expands benefits for Americans who were previously denied or had reduced social security checks because they or their spouses were entitled to public pensions. It clears the way for teachers, firefighters, policemen, and other public sector workers, to receive increases in their social security benefits. The change is to payments from January 2024 and beyond, meaning the Social Security Administration would owe back-dated payments. The measure as passed by Congress says the Social Security commissioner shall adjust primary insurance amounts to the extent necessary to take into account changes in the law. Its not immediately clear how this will happen or whether people affected will have to take any action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senator Edward Markey, Chair of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Subcommittee on Primary Health and Retirement Security, released the following statement: Last night, Congress passed the Social Security Fairness Act. Once signed by the president, we will finally repeal the Draconian laws that robbed an entire generation of teachers, firefighters, postal workers, and public servants of all stripes of the benefits they earned. By passing the Social Security Fairness Act, we will right this historic wrong; restore Social Security benefits to millions of Americans, including 130,000 in Massachusetts, and finally deliver for the workers who have delivered for their communities. To the nearly 3 million public servants and their families who will finally receive the retirement benefits they deserve: thank you for your service to your communities and your unwavering advocacy. I will always fight for public servants and retirees. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. President Joe Biden signed the Social Security Fairness Act into law on Sunday to restore social security benefits to millions of Americans. Channel 2 consumer investigator Justin Gray has reported on how a law from the 1980s has prevented many workers with government and public service jobs from being able to receive Social Security benefits, despite paying into the system. Those impacted including teachers, firefighters and police officers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive always worked another job at the same time that I was teaching school. All of my life. Ive been working since I was 16, former Atlanta Public Schools teacher Verdaillia Turner told Gray. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Last month, the U.S. Senate passed to repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset. The bill had 63 co-sponsors in the Senate including Georgia Sens. Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock. On Sunday, Biden signed the law. More than 50,000 Georgians will now have their benefits. Educators, firefighters, and law enforcement officers already make huge sacrifices for our state and arent in it for the money it makes no sense to unfairly reduce their Social Security benefits, Ossoff said. RELATED STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There have been concerns about the price tag that could run into the billions of dollars for the already troubled Social Security trust fund. The annual Social Security and Medicare trustees report released last May said the programs trust fund will be unable to pay full benefits beginning in 2035. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] The wildfire smoke that often wafts across the U.S. West may only be causing minimal disturbance to the output of photovoltaic solar panels, a new study has found. Smoke-linked losses of photovoltaic resources remain modest outside of the areas immediately surrounding active blazes, where plumes are denser, according to the study, published in Nature Communications. Meanwhile, power produced by panels nationwide has remained relatively stable even during extreme fire seasons, the study authors observed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While previous studies have focused on the connection between specific wildfire events and solar panel function, the researchers sought to understand any impacts from smoke cover spreading across the U.S. We show there are significant impacts to solar power resources near these fires, first author Kimberley Corwin said in a statement, referring to the immediate areas of the big blazes. When smoke is transported farther away, as we have seen in the Midwest and along the East Coast recently, it presents much less of a concern in terms of prolonged solar losses, added Corwin, a postdoctoral fellow at Colorado State University. That knowledge, she explained, could have major implications as the U.S. looks to ramp up the contributions of solar power in its overall energy portfolio and strategizes where to place future facilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Corwin and her colleagues specifically looked at the impact of wildfire smoke on irradiance, or the amount of solar light that makes its way to the surface of a panel. In general, solar power generation can be hampered by many factors, including cloud cover, smoke and other sources of air pollution. The scientists focused on a particular type of irradiance which includes both direct sunlight and sunlight scattered by the atmosphere and which is most relevant to prevalent flat-plate photovoltaic systems. During the very active 2020 wildfire season, smoke burning in California, Colorado and Oregon ultimately covered large swaths of the East Coast. Yet although the plumes brought some short-term production losses, they only caused modest long-term effects, according to the study. While you do see large reductions close to active fires, that drops off quickly with distance, Corwin said. Substantial losses are specific to the area directly around the fire where the smoke column is denser and therefore blocks more of the light. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Output levels for fire-adjacent California photovoltaic (PV) plants in 2020 plunged by about 11-17 percent in comparison to averages of low-smoke years, while those near blazes in Greece in 2021 dropped by 10-20 percent, per the study. The massive, traveling smoke plumes do linger in the skies for days, but they do so in a diluted form and in a way comparable to other weather variabilities, according to Corwin. Even during extreme wildfire seasons with heavy smoke, as seen in 2020, we project little change in average PV resource availability, except in areas with optically thick, fresh, local smoke plumes, the authors stated. The decreases caused by transported smoke typically stayed below 5 percent and, in some areas, less than 2 percent, Corwin noted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To adapt to those short-term impacts, however, Corwin suggested that battery storage could help minimize short-term power impacts. By switching to battery reserves, operators would be able to avoid relying on fossil fuels to make up for deficits, she added. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SOUTH HAVEN, Mich. (WOOD) South Haven City leaders are bringing in consultants to help develop what a new lifeguard program would look like. It comes after the council voted to approve an agreement with United States Lifeguard Association Monday night. But it is by no means a sign that lifeguards will be on the shores of South Haven. The recommendation was made after City Manager Kate Hosier said staff reviewed proposals from eight consulting groups. She said many groups were working off of USLAs standards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to city documents, the consultant group would have to complete plans for two options. One would have lifeguards at some or all seven beaches and lake access points. Another would only have lifeguards stationed at North and South beach, which are considered the most popular locations. The cost of the consultants services is $10,000, which includes $5,000 for travel and fees. Hosier said whatever plan is brought forward, will have to be readjusted to fit the city. Theyre trying to set up the best program that would meet our needs, that will meet the safety standards and also meet the national standards for certification. They trying to help us develop a plan and weve asked them to look at the maximum beaches and the two minimums, Hosier said to the council. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The debate over lifeguards has been a long-standing issue for the lakeside community. The discussion was boosted when in August 2022, two swimmers drowned off of South Beach in Lake Michigan. Council member Joe Resser said its a good first step to bringing clarity. I think theyre going to be excellent. I dont think its going to be really easy putting it together but now we have a company that can walk us through this thing, which we didnt have before. Currently, the city has staff of beach enforcement attendants who monitor lake conditions and warn of any danger with a colored flag system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Results from the consultation group are expected around March. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. (Bloomberg) -- South Koreas corruption watchdog filed for an extension of a warrant to arrest President Yoon Suk Yeol after their first attempt last week ended in failure following an hours-long standoff with his security team. Most Read from Bloomberg The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials also asked the police to handle the arrest on their behalf following the failure. But police effectively rejected the request, saying there could be legal issues for them to execute a warrant obtained by the CIO. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will continue to consult with the CIO on executing the arrest warrant, Baek Dong-heum, a senior police officer, told reporters Monday. The application for the extension suggests a move to carry out the arrest may not happen until later in the week. Either way, Yoons legal representative said the president will not cooperate and warned of legal action. The CIO is treating the police as its subordinate agency when it doesnt have the authority to oversee a police investigation, Yoons lawyer, Yoon Kab-keun, said in a text message to Bloomberg News. Yoons representatives are challenging the investigators jurisdiction to arrest the president based on the CIO act regulating the watchdogs operation. Insurrection is not included in the list of crimes the corruption agency can investigate under the law, though a clause says it can look into crimes related to abuse of power. The CIO has said it will investigate Yoons insurrection case based on that clause. The arrest of a sitting president would be the first in the nations history, if it materializes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As investigators struggle to take Yoon into custody, the embattled leader fortified his residence with barbed wire fences, photos showed, further complicating efforts to arrest him. Yoons security chief said Sunday that his office will not back down from guarding the president, citing ongoing confusion over the investigators jurisdiction. A team from the CIO tried to arrest the impeached leader on Friday but the officials abandoned their bid hours later as Yoons security team blocked their attempt with thousands of Yoons supporters gathered outside the presidents residence. The probe teams failure to arrest Yoon has raised questions over its ability to lead the investigation into the president. The CIO is a relatively new government agency established in 2021 as part of efforts to decentralize power concentrated in the prosecutors office. South Korea has been in a political crisis since Yoons martial law declaration at the beginning of December. While the order was retracted after lawmakers raced to parliament to overturn the measure, the move rattled financial markets, hurt the local currency and disrupted diplomatic efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parliament has since voted to impeach both Yoon and Prime Minister Han Duck-Soo, who briefly took on the role of acting president following the short-lived decree. Finance Minister Choi Sang-Mok is now serving as acting president. Park Chan-dae, floor leader of the main opposition Democratic Party, urged Choi to exercise his power to order the presidential security office to cooperate with the execution of the arrest, warning of unspecified corresponding measures if he does not take action. After investigators withdrew from the presidential compound last week, Choi said citizens and civil servants on duty should not be harmed in the process of law enforcement. But he has refrained from actively exercising his power to give guidelines as government agencies collide over the presidents possible arrest. Yoon has signaled his intention to fight his case in the impeachment trial to stay in office, saying his martial law decree was within his constitutional powers. The Constitutional Court is set to begin the trial on Jan. 14. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement --With assistance from Shinhye Kang and Seyoon Kim. (Updates with filing of request to extend warrant.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. With the arrest warrant for impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol expiring on Monday, the country's anti-corruption agency has asked police to step in detain the embattled leader, according to Yonhap news agency. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials reportedly made the request to police on Sunday. "The CIO sent us an official letter requesting our cooperation without prior consultations," a police official told the South Korean publication. "We are internally carrying out a legal review." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The request comes after investigators abandoned an hours-long effort to detain Yoon at his residence in Seoul on Friday. PHOTO: Supporters of impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol stage a rally to oppose a court having issued a warrant to detain Yoon, as police offices stand guard near the presidential residence in Seoul, Jan. 3, 2025. (Lee Jin-Man/AP) MORE: Protesters gather at impeached South Korean president's residence, as arrest warrant nears expiration Police vehicles and crowds of the impeached president's backers were seen outside his home in the South Korean capital over the weekend. Photos showed protesters lying down in front of police in an attempt to block authorities from the residence. ABC News confirmed that anti-corruption authorities entered the gate on Yoon's property, after which a standoff ensued between his security team and police investigators. There were 3,000 police officers on the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, investigators eventually abandoned their effort some five hours after arriving. PHOTO: Pro-Yoon Suk Yeol supporters gather outside the official residence of impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on Jan. 2, 2025, in Seoul. (Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images) "We determined that executing the detention warrant would be practically impossible due to the continued confrontation and suspended the execution out of concern for the safety of on-site personnel caused by the resistance," the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials said in a statement, quoted by Yonhap news agency. "We plan to decide on the next steps following a review," the CIO said. "We express serious regret over the behavior of the suspect who refused to comply with legally set procedures," it added. The effort to detain Yoon came after a South Korean court issued an arrest and search warrant on Dec. 31 over his short-lived imposition of martial law, ABC News confirmed. Yoon has been suspended from his position since Dec. 14. PHOTO: Supporters of impeached South Korea president Yoon Suk Yeol take part in a rally near his residence as snow falls in Seoul on Jan. 5, 2025. (Philip Fong/AFP via Getty Images) MORE: South Korean investigators abandon effort to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yoon declared martial law in a televised speech on Dec. 3. The president said the measure was necessary due to the actions of the country's liberal opposition, the Democratic Party, which he accused of controlling parliament, sympathizing with North Korea and paralyzing the government. Under South Korea's constitution, if a sitting president is accused of insurrection, the police have the authority to arrest him while he is still in office. A joint investigation team sought the warrant on insurrection and abuse of power charges after they said Yoon ignored three summonses to appear for questioning. The court's decision to grant the warrant marks the first for a president in the country's history. ABC News' Joohee Cho and Will Gretsky contributed to this report. South Korean anti-corruption agency asks police to arrest impeached President Yoon originally appeared on abcnews.go.com South Korea's police have been asked to arrest suspended president Yoon Suk Yeol, the Yonhap news agency reported on Monday. Dozens of investigators working for the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) attempted to execute a court warrant for Yoon's detention on Friday after he ignored three summonses for questioning over his botched attempt to impose martial law on December 3. Police had now been asked to execute the warrant, however, they had yet to determine whether to cooperate with the CIO's request, Yonhap reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CIO plans to seek an extension of the warrant before it expires at midnight (1500 GMT). Yoon's lawyer criticized the decision to delegate the arrest, likening it to subcontracting for a construction project, Yonhap reported. Numerous supporters of Yoon have been demonstrating in front of the presidential residence in Seoul for days. Thousands of opponents of the suspended president have also taken to the streets. Lawmakers removed Yoon from office until further notice on charges of abuse of power and sedition in mid-December, with the Constitutional Court currently reviewing the decision. SEOUL, South Korea (AP) North Korea on Monday fired a ballistic missile that flew 1,100 kilometers (685 miles) before landing in waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan, South Koreas military said, extending its weapons testing weeks before Donald Trump returns as U.S. president. The Souths Joint Chiefs of Staff said the midrange missile was fired from an area near the North Korean capital Pyongyang and that the launch preparations were detected in advance by the U.S. and South Korean militaries. It denounced the launch as a provocation that poses a serious threat to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. The joint chiefs said the military was strengthening its surveillance and defense posture in preparation for possible additional launches. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Japans Defense Ministry said the missile landed outside its exclusive economic zone and that there were no reports of damage to vessels or aircraft. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed concern that the Norths accelerated pace in missile tests is advancing its capabilities. The North last year tested various nuclear-capable systems that threaten its neighbors and the United States, including a new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile that achieved both the highest altitude and longest flight time of any missile the country has launched. Blinken holds talks in Seoul as political turmoil shakes South Korea The launch came as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was visiting Seoul for talks with South Korean allies over the North Korean nuclear threat and other issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blinkens visit comes amid political turmoil in South Korea following President Yoon Suk Yeols short-lived martial law decree and subsequent impeachment by parliament last month, which experts say puts the country at a disadvantage in getting a steady footing with Trump ahead of his return to the White House. In a news conference with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul, Blinken condemned North Koreas latest launch, which violates U.N. Security Council resolutions against the North. He also reiterated concerns about the growing alignment between North Korea and Russia in Moscow's war on Ukraine. According to U.S., Ukrainian and South Korean assessments, North Korea has sent more than 10,000 troops and conventional weapons systems to support Moscows war campaign. There are concerns that Russia could transfer to North Korea advanced weapons technology in return, which could potentially enhance the threat posed by leader Kim Jong Uns nuclear-armed military. Blinken described the military cooperation between Russia and North Korea as a two-way street, saying Russia has been providing military equipment and training to the North and intends to share space and satellite technology. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blinken and Cho both dismissed concerns about damage to the U.S.-South Korea alliance in the aftermath of the political turmoil in Seoul. Experts had warned that Yoons martial law decree which lasted only hours but has rattled politics, high-level diplomacy and financial markets for weeks exposed the fragility of South Koreas democratic system in a divided society. We had serious concerns about some of the actions that President Yoon took and we communicated those directly to the government, Blinken said. At the same time we have tremendous confidence in the resilience of South Koreas democracy, in the strength of its institutions and in the efforts that its making to work through those institutions, pursuant to the constitution and the rule of law to resolve differences and to do so peacefully. Kim's warning ahead of Trump's return In a year-end political conference, Kim, the North Korean leader, vowed to implement the toughest anti-U.S. policy and criticized the Biden administrations efforts to strengthen security cooperation with Seoul and Tokyo, which he described as a nuclear military bloc for aggression. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Korean state media did not specify Kims policy plans or mention any specific comments about Trump. During his first term, Trump met Kim three times for talks on the Norths nuclear program. Even if Trump returns to the White House, a quick resumption of diplomacy with North Korea could be unlikely. Kims strengthened position built on his expanded nuclear arsenal, deepening alliance with Russia and the weakening enforcement of U.S. international sanctions presents new challenges to resolving the nuclear standoff, experts say. Its unclear whether Trump would be as active as Biden in strengthening U.S. alliances in Asia. During his first term, Trump complained about the cost of keeping 28,000 U.S. troops in South Korea to deter North Korean threats and constantly pushed for significant increases in Seouls defense contributions. There are also concerns in Seoul that Trumps America first approach would damage South Korean interests in trade through increased tariffs and other measures. __ Associated Press writer Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to this report. SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. (AND NO SPAM!) Just click here. Point and laugh at The Hollywood Reporter. After four years of Team Biden pressuring Big Tech to crush dissent on social media, not to mention Team Biden pressuring the news media to crush any word of President Joe Biden's mental decline, they're going to warn the world about Donald Trump and censorship. The silly headline on this silly article is "Trump's Media Censorship Arsenal Is Growing." Beware, says the subhead: "A new roadmap for the president-elect and his advisors to chill free speech has surfaced as he targets networks critical of him." Nowhere in this 1,000-word joke does young Berkeley-educated writer Winston Cho mention Biden or his team's tawdry record of censorship and "chilling" negative reporting in any way, shape or form. Journalists on the Left hypocritically clothe themselves in the mantle of democracy and free speech while they tolerate the crudest censorship and political pressure being brought to serve the most powerful Democrats. Then consider the hilarious notion that Donald Trump is going to turn the anti-Trump media into a harmless yarn basket full of toothless kittens. Network evening-news coverage of Trump has been routinely and relentlessly 90% negative in every study we've done at NewsBusters. But the left seems terrified that Trump might be able to pressure the media into making it, what, 70% negative? At one point in the last campaign, Kamala Harris was drawing 100% positive evening-news coverage on ABC. So of course, Cho's panic began with ABC settling with Trump rather than letting us see all the internal George Stephanopoulos emails. We can't have the slightest fraction of a chance that ABC News and Stephanopoulos would somehow transform into a slightly more moderate network. It continued with the notion that Trump would cause this Supreme Court to revisit the New York Times v. Sullivan ruling, which makes it nearly impossible for public figures to sue malicious and/or corrupt media outlets. "The specter of Trump toppling a pillar of First Amendment jurisprudence has emerged as one of several weapons in his censorship arsenal," wrote Cho. Democracy and journalism somehow survived before The New York Times won over the Supreme Court in 1964. Then there's the unintentionally hilarious worry from journalists that Trump shouldn't be using "lawfare" to make their lives difficult and expensive. Oh, really? And what do they think they've been relentlessly promoting and weaponizing all these Trump years? The lawfare shoe was delightful ... on the other foot. Third, there's the worry that Trump's arsenal includes "loyalists serving as heads of regulatory agencies who can steer networks away from coverage critical of him and his administration." FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr is making noise about reviewing TV news coverage, so "long-term incentives to stay out of Trump's crosshairs by toning down adversarial coverage persist." These people are terrified at the prospect of "toning down adversarial coverage." Perhaps they would witness less use of words like "fascist" and "end of democracy." Maybe Trump will merely be described as "oafish" and "stupid." Cho is appalled that Stephanopoulos can't claim repeatedly that Trump is a rapist. Mediaite founder Dan Abrams recently admitted that "there is a level of Trump derangement syndrome among some that they are completely incapable of giving him credit for anything." Any encouraging word about Trump is "normalizing" him. The abnormal people here are the anti-Trump ranters who can't seem to fathom that every president tries sometimes gently, sometimes roughly to "tone down adversarial coverage." These haters just can't be honest enough to confess they don't object to Democrats like Biden censoring critical narratives and pressuring reporters to avoid negativity and repeat Democrat happy talk. (COMMENT, BELOW) BENGALURU (Reuters) - Funding in Indias space sector, a key part of the countrys ambitions to become a global superpower, plummeted by 55% in 2024 to $59.1 million from $130.2 million the previous year, according to data from market intelligence platform Tracxn. The drop, which came amid a global 20% decline in space sector investment, marks the first fall in at least five years. Globally, space companies raised about $28 billion over the last five years, while their Indian counterparts secured approximately $354 million in the same period, Tracxn data showed. Indias space industry has gained global attention with the Chandrayaan-3 lunar landing and the Aditya-L1 solar probe launch. Its private space sector growth is increasingly seen as crucial for achieving the long-term goal a $44 billion private space economy. The government has sought to stimulate the sector by approving a 10 billion rupee ($119 million) fund in October 2024 to support space startups and setting plans to expand Indias share of the global commercial space market by 2033. Industry participants said they expected to see a pickup in funding in 2025. "The next 12 months will be crucial in shaping the future of India's space tech startups," said Vishesh Rajaram, managing partner at Speciale Invest, which backs companies such as Agnikul Cosmos, GalaxEye, and Inspecity. In 2023, Indias space sector hit a funding peak of $130.2 million, a 32.9% rise from 2022, driven by initiatives supporting satellite technology, launch vehicles, and space exploration. "The decline aligns with the natural investment cycles of the industry," said Pawan Chandana, founder of Skyroot Aerospace. "As leading companies approach critical milestones in 2025, investment activity is likely to pick up." Over the five years from 2020 to 2024, Indian space startups raised $353.5 million across 72 funding rounds. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has also projected a 20%-30% increase in its budget to support deep space exploration and heavy-lift rockets. (Reporting by Nivedita Bhattacharjee in Bengaluru. Editing by Gerry Doyle) LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) The parents of two special needs students expressed their anger after claiming both children were assaulted by a bus aide in Charlotte. 6 News spoke with the children with their parents permission. Kayden Lehman, 14, and Charles Thompson, 11, say they were frightened when the incidents happened, so much so that Lehman doesnt want to ride the bus anymore. Grabbed me right here, and choked me, said Lehman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She like grabbed me, and I think she was about to try and choke me, but then she just grabbed me and pulled me, and then let me go, said Thompson. Lehman, who has ADHD and a learning disability, and Thompson, who has ADHD, say the aide did other inappropriate things on the bus as well. She always talked about alcohol, weed and stuff, said Lehman Lehman took pictures for evidence after the aide choked him and sent them to his mother. Karrie Lehman went straight to the bus company after hearing about the incident. When I found out about the incident on the 16th. I contacted Dean, and I spoke with Chris and he was putting all the blame on the children, and wasnt taking any accountability for it, said Karrie Lehman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She did what any other mother would do and contacted the authorities. Thompsons father, Jerome, did the same. Karrie Lehman says the aide should face more consequences. Karrie Kelham would file a report with the Michigan State Police and Jerome Thompson filed one with the Charlotte Police Department. She shouldve been fired before this because she had been written up so many times beforehand, said Jerome Thompson. Karrie Lehman says the principal told her the aide is no longer in her position at Dean Transportation or the school. I feel like this needs to be recorded. So, wherever she goes they can see it, said Karrie Lehman Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 6 News saw a text from the school to one of the parents saying the aide was no longer with the district. However, when we reached out to Dean Transportation and Meadow View School they told us that they cant release any information regarding an employee. 6 News also reached out to the Charlotte Police Department and State Police and are waiting to hear back from them. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. BOSTON (SHNS) Senate President Karen Spilka expressed an openness to tolls on more Massachusetts roads, deflected when asked about removing the Legislatures exemption from the public records law, and knocked the Legislatures own biennial deadline to finish most major work as totally arbitrary and artificial. During a Sunday appearance on WCVBs On The Record, Spilka also suggested that private equity interests in health care may be the topic of another bill, beyond the one on Gov. Maura Healeys desk. Legislation shipped to Healey on Monday includes a series of new checks on private equity interests in health care, measures that supporters hope will create guardrails to protect patients. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new requirements are the most direct legislative response to Steward Health Cares bankruptcy, which led to two hospitals closing and pricey public aid packages to the new owners of other former Steward hospitals. Is it the be-all and end-all? Spilka asked. No, and we are still learning more and more about Steward and private equity. The whole country, almost every state, is struggling with this. Massachusetts is at the forefront by passing this bill. Health and Human Services Secretary Kate Walsh and others have noted how private equity can bring needed capital and investment into health care, where many major players are organized as non-profits. You know, weve learned that in many instances, small private practices do have some private equity investment and they help, Spilka said. But we need guardrails. They shouldnt be making the decisions as to who gets care, how, when, what, et cetera. And they certainly shouldnt be taking over the medical decisions. So I think that as long as theres guardrails, and we have some of that in this bill, we probably will need to continue looking at this and do another bill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Co-host Ben Simmoneau asked Spilka if she was worried about securing federal funds for public works projects and to replace both Cape Cod bridges. The Senate president said she was. He later asked if she would support tolls on the bridges as a revenue source for the replacement effort. Ive been open to tolls ever since the tolls were put on the Mass. Turnpike, because I still say if its good for the pike, it should be good for other roads, Spilka, who represents a MetroWest district where some commuters pay tolls every day to use the turnpike, said. We need to come up with ways to pay for improving our infrastructure, both roads, bridges, public transportation. Massachusetts has a new income surtax on wealthier households that is generating more than $2 billion a year for education and transportation, and a task force convened by Healey is poised to offer more revenue ideas. The Legislature passed major laws in 2024, but left most of the final work until just before and after the elections after the formal legislating period ended under joint legislative rules on July 31. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In doing so, top Democrats raised more questions about their ability to meet deadlines and agree on bills. As Spilka talked about ways the Senate will try to make Beacon Hill more transparent and tout its work, Simmoneau asked if shes willing to make the Legislature subject to the public records law. We will probably take a look at that, said Spilka. She quickly pivoted to other things that I think are important to do, mentioning joint rules changes to make more committee votes public and testimony on bills publicly available. Spilka also wants to give the branches more time to work on bills by forcing joint committees to move bills out earlier in the two-year session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spilka will host a private caucus of Senate Democrats in her office Wednesday a Spilka aide declined to disclose the topic of the early-session gathering. House and Senate Democrats have failed to compromise on joint rules changes for two straight sessions, and during that stretch have pushed more major decisions and work into informal sessions. Spilka said the major laws approved during the quiet informal sessions are chock-packed with terrific stuff. We are right now trying to figure out how we can do better as a Senate to get the word out, she said. We dont always have the soap box, but we can use the digital media better. Were looking at a board in front of the Senate Chamber so that we can publicize whats going on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spilka was asked about doing away with the legislative rule aimed at preventing formal sessions for action on major bills during election seasons. The 1995 rule calls for formal sessions to end July 31 during election years, and any change to it requires agreement from both branches. Have you talked to the speaker about that? Are you both in alignment on that? Simmoneau asked. I think there is an agreement, Spilka said. I feel that we should continue with conference committee bills, not other major bills, past July 31. Because as I mentioned, the conference committee bills have already been discussed, vetted and debated and voted on, on both the House version and the Senate version. Spilka called the July 31 deadline in the rules a totally arbitrary, artificial deadline. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spilka also wasnt ready to commit to Auditor Diana DiZoglios longstanding push to audit the Legislature, saying the November voter law making her audit powers explicit wasnt officially in effect until Friday. It wasnt effective, Spilka said. So you know, if we get something from the auditor, we will certainly take a look at it and respond to it, and we will make our response public. Co-host Ed Harding then suggested it sounds like Spilka may be looking to delay an audit. I dont have anything to delay right now because it literally just became effective, she responded. We have heard the residents. Im planning on a listening tour for the Senate to do a listening tour around the state thats new, to hear from constituents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harding asked if Spilka had not already heard from constituents with the overwhelming vote for Question 1. Weve heard to some extent, she said. I believe that we can be more transparent. I do have some concerns that Ive voiced before about the constitutional issues of separation of powers. Its not just me or the speaker that have voiced that. The attorney general herself has said that there may be some major constitutional issues that have to be addressed. And in fact, when there was a hearing on this issue, the auditors own constitutional experts mentioned that there probably were constitutional issues that needed to be addressed. So I dont mind the transparency. What I do mind is not fulfilling my oath of following the Constitution. This past Wednesday, all of the legislators took an oath to uphold our Constitution. While President-elect Donald Trump has laid out a menu of campaign promises, Spilka said its hard to know what will happen when Trump takes office again Jan. 20. I could guess, she said. I could make up hypotheticals, but you just never know with him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She added that she hopes Trump and Congress are able to get better controls over immigration. This is a federal issue and in fact, had Congress passed the bill that was close to being passed just before the election that Trump stopped, we would be in a much better situation right now, Spilka said. We would have less immigrants coming to Massachusetts. We would have more money that included some funding we would have resources and money to help pay for the costs of this. So we need them to take action. This should not be on the states. Its not just the blue states and Massachusetts that are struggling with it. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) The Massachusetts Economic Assistance Coordinating Council approved new projects in gateway cities to receive $1.8 million in tax credits. These projects will help to create 125 new jobs, retain 40 existing jobs, and allow for private investments. Many projects will benefit towns and cities throughout Massachusetts including in Northampton, Westfield, and Springfield through a Vacant Storefront Program. The City of Springfield approved Mason Square as a vacant storefront district and they are working towards improvements. The focus area in Mason Square includes Wilbraham Avenue from King Street to McKnight Street and State Street from Berlin Street to Terrence Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This Springfield district has 17 available vacant storefronts and they plan to bring in many more, helping the community to access the resources. With this project, the city set aside $500,000 in funds for small business assistance programs for the 2025 fiscal year with a match of up to $50,000 per business. This round of awards through the Economic Assistance Coordinating Council will support small businesses that bring economic energy to our communities and manufacturers seeking to expand their footprint in Massachusetts, said Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao. We are proud to offer this vital economic development tool that helps make our state the best place for businesses to launch, grow, and succeed. The Economic Assistance Coordinating Council is dedicated to supporting businesses of all sizes and across every sector as they grow their operations and create new jobs in Massachusetts cities and towns, said Undersecretary of Economic Foundations Ashley Stolba. We look forward to seeing how this round of awards will benefit economic activity across the state in the years to come. Toasted, a breakfast and lunch restaurant featuring a full cafe bar with barista drinks in Northampton, was awarded $10,000 in state tax credits and a $10,000 municipal grant from the city Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Comfort Bagel which opened in Westfield was awarded $10,000 in state tax credits and $14,265 from the city through the Community Development Block Grant program. 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 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. As Florida grapples with a statewide firefighter shortage, St. Johns County is feeling the pressure of this critical issue. Fire officials say their current manpower is being stretched thin, especially as the countys population continues to grow at a rapid pace. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< In 2024, St. Johns County Fire Rescue responded to a staggering 64,932 events, marking a 1.9% increase in call volume compared to the previous year. With an average of 177 calls per day, firefighters are seeing an unprecedented workload. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lot of that is due to the population growth throughout the county, St. Johns County Fire Rescue Public Information Officer Chris Naff said. As more people move to the area, the departments ability to keep up with the increased demand has become increasingly challenging. Naff said, due to the rapid growth and an average of 177 calls per day, the departments firefighters have been stretched thin As we see these call numbers go up, were gonna need to improvise and put more stations in, Naff said. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Recognizing the need, local government leaders have committed to expanding the fire departments resources. Five new fire stations will be built over the next six years as part of an effort to improve public safety and boost response capabilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Naff also highlighted that the department will be hiring 31 new firefighters in the coming weeks, with the first group starting on Jan. 21. We opened up Station 11 in September, which is off of 207 and I-95, so that took a lot of response time out of the area, which was taking a little bit longer for us to get to, Naff explained. Three of those new stations are listed for the south side of I-95 and County Road 210. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] We will have one in Silverleaf, which will also help this area out as well, cause this is a big populated area right now, Naff said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that the average response time for fire departments across the nation is 9 minutes and 20 seconds. With the addition of new stations and 31 new hires, St. Johns Countys goal is to reduce that response time to seven minutes. Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. As we enter a new year full of uncertainties, there is one thing of which we can be sure: Brexit is not done. Who would have thought that as the ninth anniversary of the 2016 referendum approaches, we should have a Government talking about a reset of relations with an ever more troubled European Union, and pro-EU lobbyists calling for politicians to show courage and start talking about formal accession? Of course, courage is unlikely, but what is all too likely is surreptitious shuffling towards alignment with the EU, despite its political and economic foundations visibly cracking. Such stubborn attachment to a faded utopia is not something I think people expected. I certainly didnt. Indeed, I imprudently predicted that life outside the EU would so quickly be taken for granted that it would be hard to find anyone admitting to having voted Remain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boris Johnson seemed to think the same, as in 2020 he asked the little group I belong to called Briefings for Brexit to change its name because Brexit had been done. Future historians will surely think the persistence of the Remain mindset worthy of study. In 2016, a concerted Project Fear convinced many that even to vote to leave would cause immediate economic disaster financial crisis, mass unemployment, and emergency tax increases. Most Remain voters said at the time that this was the major reason for their decision. Yet despite fears proving false (as leading economists had predicted), the number of people seemingly regretting Brexit has increased. The obvious reason is the endless resuscitation of Project Fear. The subtler version is to say that although there has been no disaster yet, one day there will be. The cruder version is to say that there has already been a disaster, because everything bad is down to Brexit leaving out such minor matters as war, pandemic, and destructive government policies both here and in the EU. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of these dodgy dossiers have been crude indeed, to the point of being comical. A recent report by Aston University widely endorsed by the Rejoiner media listed untold damage to British exports. They had apparently not noticed that one of the export trades they said had collapsed was frozen camel meat, which the UK has only exported once in some freak business deal. Export items such as coconuts and bamboo had simply been reclassified as re-exports. Aston also failed to notice that some of what it identified as cessation of exports was simply because of changes in official categories, not because of actual change in trade flows. When I asked the BBC why it had reported this without question, it replied that it was not its job to check facts. So much for BBC Verify at least for anti-Brexit myths. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most repeated of these myths concerns 4 per cent: the magical figure of what the British economy is supposed to have lost, or is going to lose, or which credulous people seem to think it is continually losing every year. The real 4 per cent is merely a prediction of an assumed lower level of future growth, based on a weak theory about trade and productivity. It has not been borne out by actual performance. Why is this stream of propaganda so persistent? One cannot rule out a combination of prejudice and ignorance some of the data are elusive and the theories complex, so many commentators dont ask questions, but happily believe two impossible things before breakfast. One also cannot rule out self-interest and money: many Remainer lobbies and media outlets receive generous funds from pro-EU sources, or even from the EU itself. (In case any reader is wondering, Briefings for Britain are unpaid volunteers and running costs are met by public donations.) So the loudest voices over the past eight years first aimed to resist Leave, and then to discredit it. It is not surprising that uncertain and worried voters have let themselves be persuaded that Brexit was a bad idea few prominent Tory politicians argued the positive case. But there is another reason than economic propaganda for the persistence of Remain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An academic study by Adam Fagan and Stijn van Kessel shows that leading Remainers were not concerned with making a positive case for EU membership. They were anti-Brexit without being pro-EU. This contradictory position, I think, is the key to understanding Rejoin. For a variety of reasons, a section of the political class and its followers do not want Brexit to be successful on any terms. Johnson, Farage, and now Badenoch are to be defeated, and the EU is the weapon. Some of this is party tactics. Labour, the SNP and the Lib Dems realise they can disgrace the Tories and Reform by discrediting and reversing Brexit. Only Kemi Badenoch during the last government was making an energetic attempt to defend Brexit and realise its benefits. The apathy of her colleagues is a major reason for their losing the election: why vote for a party that seems ashamed of its biggest achievement and allows its opponents to rubbish it? At a deeper level, there are cultural and even psychological motives at work. Anti-Brexitism has become part of the woke agenda. In the same way that ample evidence that Britain is not a racist country is irrelevant to anti-racists, rational evidence about the potentialities of Brexit, the failings of the EU, and the disadvantages and costs of rejoining or resetting is irrelevant to hard-core anti-Brexiters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For most voters, however, the economic facts about Brexit are very relevant. Fortunately, they are simple. There has been no decline in trade overall with the EU, and if some exports have languished, it is essentially because the EU is a stagnant market. Our post-Brexit economic performance has been as good as or better than the EUs. Economic weaknesses are due not to Brexit, but to global factors, most obviously Covid and the Ukraine war, and to successive British governments energy and tax policies. Some small traders indeed suffer from bureaucratic barriers, but it must be remembered that their former ability to sell home-made jam or artisan cheese unhindered to the single market was being paid for by a disproportionate budgetary contribution by the British taxpayer. That bill would now be over 20 billion a year, making formal accession to the EU financially and politically unthinkable. Meanwhile, since 2016, the EU has adopted a multitude of restrictive laws, including on finance, artificial intelligence and gene editing, which are damaging its future prospects (as many EU enthusiasts admit) and will damage us too if we align with them. We need very little from the EU, other than a less obstructive attitude to Northern Ireland. Yet the EU is behaving with remarkable obstreperousness, leaking demands on fishing rights and movement of people (involving taxpayer subsidy to foreign students) guaranteed to embarrass Starmer and make him look weak. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Perhaps the EU is in such a mess that it is still worried that the whole system might unravel if it doesnt keep cracking the whip over the Brexit rebellion. Perhaps it wants to rub Britains nose in it, and thinks Starmer is a pushover. If he has any sense, his reset will be confined to photo-ops and smiles. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. (Bloomberg) -- Prime Minister Keir Starmer got a taste of the topsy-turvy politics of the coming Trump era as his government spent the weekend defending itself from attacks from Elon Musk, only to see the billionaire provocateur turn on his erstwhile British ally, Nigel Farage. Most Read from Bloomberg Listen to the Bloomberg Daybreak Europe podcast on Apple, Spotify or anywhere you listen. Musk, the worlds richest person and a key adviser to US President-elect Donald Trump, has been a fierce critic of Starmer and his left-of-center Labour Party since it swept to power in July. But on Sunday he took aim at Farage, posting on X that the Reform UK leader doesnt have what it takes and should be replaced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was an abrupt U-turn by the Tesla Inc. chief executive, who has heaped praise on Farage and said only Reform, a populist right-wing party, can save Britain. Both men recently met at Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort, with Farage touting a possible donation by Musk to his party. It also stepped up Musks intervention in British political affairs. He has attacked Starmer over the response to summer riots that engulfed the UK, claimed that civil war is inevitable in Britain and in recent days accused the prime minister of being complicit in the rape of Britain, a reference to when Starmer was chief prosecutor for the UK during a child sex-abuse scandal. He has also used inflammatory language to criticize safeguarding minister Jess Phillips, who has rejected calls from Reform UK and Conservative lawmakers for a government-led inquiry into the historic grooming gangs scandal. On Sunday, Health Secretary Wes Streeting described the comments as a disgraceful smear. Its all very easy to sit there and fire off something in haste and click send, when people like Keir Starmer and Jess Phillips have done the hard yards of actually locking up wife beaters, rapists, paedophiles. Those are good people with great records outside politics, Streeting said in a BBC Television interview. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The UK held an independent inquiry into the sexual abuse of children which proposed recommendations in 2022, including tighter rules on online platforms. Its lead author, professor Alexis Jay, warned against the politicisation of the subject, the BBC reported Monday. A government spokesperson said it was working at pace to implement her inquirys proposals. Musk offered no explanation for his shift over Farage, the Brexit mastermind who has been hailed as a friend by Trump, but his post came after the Reform leader appeared to distance himself from some of Musks comments about British political figures. In an interview broadcast on BBC on Sunday, Farage said that while Musk is allowed to have an opinion, he doesnt agree with everything he stands for. Musk has called for far-right activist Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, to be freed from prison where he serving a sentence for contempt of court. Farage has ruled out Robinson joining Reform, and he repeated his position after Musk attacked his leadership of the party. Musks public support for Robinson had already set off alarms among senior politicians on the UK right. Several prominent Brexit-supporting politicians with links to Trump last week warned their Republican counterparts against following Musks endorsement, saying it was a step too far, according to people familiar with the views of both the Conservative and Reform UK parties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk has also endorsed the anti-immigrant Alternative for Germany party ahead of federal elections next month. For Starmer, the clash with Musk has added to a problematic first six months in power that has seen Labour lose support in opinion polls and his own approval ratings slip deep into negative territory. An early decision to shore up the public finances by stripping away winter fuel payments from the elderly and a subsequent tax-raising budget have drawn the ire of pensioners, farmers and businesses. Economic growth, which matched the best in the Group of Seven in the first half of 2024, has ground to a halt. On Monday, Starmer will respond to calls to start delivering the improvements that Labour has promised by setting out how the government plans to meet its target that most National Health Service patients wait no longer than 18 weeks for elective treatment by the end of the current parliament. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This year, youll be hearing a lot more from the government about what we are doing. Not just what were saying, what we are doing to turn round what is objectively the worst crisis in the history of the NHS, Streeting said on Sunday. (Updates with Alexis Jay comment and government response in seventh paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has criticized those spreading lies and misinformation about child sex grooming gangs in the United Kingdom, responding to an online storm whipped up by Elon Musk. Those that are spreading lies and misinformation, as far and as wide as possible theyre not interested in victims, theyre interested in themselves, Starmer told reporters Monday. For days, Musk the worlds richest man and the owner of X has used his social media platform to dredge up a years-long scandal over historic child sex abuse in parts of England. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In one post, Musk called on King Charles III to dissolve parliament and order new elections in Britain. In another, he called for Starmers safeguarding minister, Jess Philips, to be imprisoned, calling her pure evil and a wicked creature. On Monday, he also said Starmer should be in prison. Weve seen this playbook many times, whipping up of intimidation and threats of violence, hoping that the media will amplify it, Starmer said. When the poison of the far right leads to serious threats to Jess Phillips and others, then in my book, a line has been crossed, he added. Starmer said he enjoys the cut-and-thrust of politics, but said these debates must be based on facts and truth, not on lies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also criticized Conservative politicians some of whom were in government during the grooming scandal for jumping on the bandwagon and being so desperate for attention that theyre prepared to debase themselves and their country. British lawmaker Ed Davey urged the UK government on Monday to summon the US ambassador over Musks comments. People have had enough of Elon Musk interfering with our countrys democracy when he clearly knows nothing about Britain. Its time to summon the US ambassador to ask why an incoming US official is suggesting the UK government should be overthrown, Davey, who serves as the leader of the Liberal Democrats, the third largest party in the UK, said in a post on X. Davey stated that the American ambassador should convey to the US government that those at a senior level need to be very careful about how they comment on UK affairs, whether theyre the richest man in the world or anyone else. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk has accused Starmer of being complicit in the rape of Britain for failing to thwart grooming gangs while he was director of public prosecutions (DPP). Starmer staunchly defended his record as head of the DPP on Monday, saying he changed the entire approach that had stopped victims from being heard, and had the highest number of child sexual abuse cases being prosecuted on record. In a 2014 report, it was revealed that about 1,400 children had been abused by gangs of men in the northern English town of Rotherham between 1997 and 2013. The far-right has long capitalized on the scandal, pointing to the South Asian ethnicities of the majority of the gangs perpetrators. Starmers government recently rejected a national inquiry into the gangs, citing a string of existing inquiries into the issue and a 2022 report, the findings of which are still being implemented. Musk arrives on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, December 5, 2024. - Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images Following his success in helping to re-elect Donald Trump in the United States, Musk has increasingly inserted himself into the political discourse of other countries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, Musk endorsed the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, ahead of federal elections to be held in February. As well as a string of posts on social media, Musk penned a weekend op-ed for a major German newspaper, explaining his support for the party, which has been accused of resurrecting Nazi-era ideology and slogans. In response, the German government accused Musk of trying to influence the election. Asked how to respond to Musks posts, Olaf Scholz, the embattled German chancellor, told German media: Dont feed the troll. Musk has also called insistently for new elections in the UK, despite the fact the last election was held just six months ago. He has backed the populist party Reform UK and on Sunday called for its leader Nigel Farage to step down, saying he does not have what it takes to lead. Although Musk did not immediately endorse another candidate, he has previously pushed for the release of Tommy Robinson, an imprisoned far-right agitator. Robinson has previously led far-right parties in the UK and has a swelling social media following. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking Monday, Starmer slammed those cheerleading Robinson, who was jailed for 18 months in October after he admitted to being in contempt of court by repeating false accusations about a Syrian refugee. Theyre supporting a man who went to prison for nearly collapsing a grooming case, Starmer said of Robinsons supporters. He said this showed that theyre not interested in victims, theyre interested in themselves. Other European leaders have become increasingly troubled by Musks meddling in the politics of other countries. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store on Monday called this a worrying development. French President Emmanuel Macron also expressed disbelief at Musks conduct. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If we had been told the owner of the largest social media network would support an international reactionary movement and directly intervene in elections, including Germany, who would have believed it? This is the world we live in and in which we have to conduct diplomacy, Macron told French ambassadors in Paris on Monday. CNNs Rob Picheta and Pauline Lockwood contributed reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com (Bloomberg) -- Keir Starmer condemned Elon Musks barrage of social media posts attacking his UK government, his strongest response yet amid an escalating row with the billionaire Donald Trump ally that risks damaging relations between Britain and the US. Most Read from Bloomberg The UK Prime Minister said a line has been crossed after one of his ministers, Jess Phillips, received threats in the wake of posts on X by Musk that she was a rape genocide apologist who should go to prison for her handling of a child sex abuse scandal in the UK. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the poison of the far-right leads to serious threats to Jess Phillips and others, then in my book a line has been crossed, Starmer told reporters on Monday in response to a question about the billionaires social media activity. I enjoy the cut and thrust of politics, the robust debate that we must have, but thats got to be based on fact and truth, not on lies. Why Musk Waded Into UK Child Grooming Gangs Scandal: QuickTake While the premier didnt directly name Musk, his remarks clearly referred to the billionaires online salvo, illustrating the risk he poses to UK-US relations ahead of Trumps inauguration later this month. The worlds richest man is set to take a key role in Trumps administration and as well as repeatedly attacking Starmers government, hes endorsed an opposition party, Reform UK, and called for the release from jail of the far-right activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, better known as Tommy Robinson. Starmer said those that are spreading lies and misinformation were not interested in victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk accused Phillips a Home Office minister who before entering politics helped manage womens refuges for victims of domestic abuse of blocking a national government-led inquiry into a so-called child grooming scandal involving mainly Pakistani men in British towns dating back over the last two decades. Musks interest in Britain has become a key theme of British politics in recent months. Since Starmers Labour won the general election last July, the Trump ally has repeatedly railed against his administration, stoking tensions during riots over the summer by saying that civil war is inevitable and then accusing the new government of suppressing freedom of speech after far-right rioters were jailed following the disorder. In his volley of attacks since the new year, Musk has also questioned Starmers actions in his role as Director of Public Prosecutions before entering politics, saying hes complicit in the child grooming scandal, calling him a national embarrassment and saying he, too, should be in jail. The continuing onslaught is an unwelcome distraction for the British prime minister as he seeks to start 2025 on the front foot following a rocky first 6 months in office dominated by a series of unpopular budgetary decisions and a scandal over freebies that he and other cabinet members accepted before entering government. His speech on Monday concerned reforms to the National Health Service, but was overshadowed by questions from journalists about Musk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmer defended his record as chief prosecutor, saying he brought the first major prosecution of an Asian grooming gang, changed the way such cases were investigated and prosecuted, and brought in mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse. He also sought to turn the attention on the main opposition Conservative Party which has backed Musks call for a public inquiry into grooming gangs saying Im not going to individualize this to Elon Musk. Im very concerned about where the Tory party is going on this, Starmer said. What I wont tolerate is politicians jumping on the bandwagon, simply to get attention. But those politicians sat in government for 14 long years, tweeting, talking, but not doing anything about it. Now so desperate for attention, that theyre amplifying what the far right is saying. Musks attacks leave open the question of how Starmer will contend with such an influential global figure who is still a close ally of Trump waging a campaign against the UK government, and whether Musk will be able to convince the incoming president to take a similar stance. That prospect is in focus as Britain contends with the threat of tariffs imposed by the US and tries to persuade Trump to maintain support for Ukraine during the war with Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As well as slamming Labour, Musk has endorsed Reform, the populist right-wing party led by Brexit campaigner and Trump friend Nigel Farage, leading to speculation that he could make a sizable donation to an opponent of the Labour government. Farage visited Musk in Mar-a-Lago in December as their alliance appeared to grow. But in a remarkable twist, that bond appeared to shatter over the weekend when Musk endorsed Robinson, from whom Farage has long distanced himself. Representatives of the British right privately expressed their concerns to allies of Trump that Musk had made a mistake in backing Robinson, and Farage himself said he didnt agree with Musk that Robinson was a political prisoner. That led Musk to come out against Farage, posting on Sunday that he didnt have what it takes to lead Reform. The sudden split between Musk and Farage appears to have given Starmer confidence to respond to Musks attacks, when only last week the premier tried to avoid engaging with his posts. (Updates with Starmer remarks, context, starting in third paragraph.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. State Rep. Dane Diehl, a Butler Republican, speaks during an April debate (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications). State Rep. Dane Diehl says he wants rhinos to be in zoos, not the legislature. The second-term Republican from Butler prefiled a bill designating the rhinoceros as the official state zoo animal. Zoos in Kansas City and St. Louis feature endangered Eastern black rhinos among their exhibits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But he said he also knows the bill plays into the ongoing debate in the GOP about what makes someone a party purist and whether anyone lukewarm on parts of the platform can honestly call themselves a Republican. Critics call them RINOs, for Republican in Name Only. Im sure Ill get a little flack on it, Diehl said in an interview with The Independent. The General Assembly opens Wednesday and the first thing on the agenda for the House will be the election of a speaker. State Rep. Justin Sparks of Wildwood, a founding member of the Missouri Freedom Caucus, is challenging state Rep. Jonathan Patterson of Lees Summit, the nominee of the Republican caucus, for the chambers top job. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sparks has accused Patterson of being a RINO. The bill is not a commentary on the speakers contest, Diehl said. Jon Patterson has done his diligence and proven to me that hes the leader and hes going to take the House in the right direction the next two years, he said. If passed, the rhinoceros would join the existing list of 41 official state symbols. There are five other state emblem bills also prefiled in the House for this years session. The legislature began designating official emblems and symbols in 1957, recognizing the state flag and seal already in use and making the Eastern Bluebird the official bird, the Hawthorn the official flower, the flowering dogwood the official tree and the Missouri Waltz the official song. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New state symbols are proposed by a variety of advocates, but many, like the designation of Big Bluestem as the official state grass in 2007, are initially proposed by schoolchildren learning about state government. The most recent additions to the list of state symbols and emblems, added in 2023, are the Hawken rifle as the state rifle and Piedmont and Wayne County, as the UFO Capitals of Missouri. The Hawken rifle was a powerful, long-range gun developed in St. Louis during the early 19th century that became a favorite of fur trappers and traders operating on the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. Piedmont received national attention in 1973 for a series of unexplained aircraft sightings. The idea is his own, Diehl said. He wasnt approached by a school group, he said, and he hasnt contacted zoo officials to determine if they agree on the chosen animal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Missouri is one of the few states that has two zoos that also have rhinoceros habitat, and with the loss and it being an endangered species, I just felt like there was a real need to bring information and promote that animal, Diehl said. The bill has received some notice from colleagues, he said, and suggestions for substitute animals. Some have suggested the animal mascots of state universities, he added. Somebody said we need to make it the kangaroo or Missouri Tiger, Diehl said. Just, you know, to make sure that theyre not forgotten. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Some 60 million people are under winter weather warnings as a storm brings snow, ice and freezing temperatures to more than a dozen US states. The storm was moving toward the mid-Atlantic, with people in Washington D.C. bracing for heavy snow and bitter cold on Monday. Hundreds of schools announced in advance that they would not open, as officials warned residents not to travel while up to 30cm of snow could fall in some areas. This FedEx cargo jet was just one of many planes impacted by the snow - Luke Sharrett People in ploughs were busy in Cincinnati - Joshua A. Bickel In Missouri, the state police were sweeping a shut-down stretch of more than 50 miles on Interstate 29, searching for stranded motorists. As of late Sunday afternoon, troopers had responded to nearly 600 stranded drivers and 285 crashes, the agency said on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Much of the main artery in Kansas, Interstate 70, was closed throughout Sunday due to heavy snow and ice. In northern Kentucky and southern West Virginia, freezing rain and sleet will produce hazardous ice accumulations, officials said. Between 15 and 30cm of snow could fall on Monday - Joshua A. Bickel Paul Cullmann clears snow from steps outside his home in St Louis - Jeff Roberson Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The back end of the storm system, meanwhile, was producing severe thunderstorms capable of spinning off tornadoes in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. The storm forced the cancellation of hundreds of flights, including more than 275 in both Kansas City and St. Louis, according to the aviation tracking website FlightAware. Governors in several states, including Kansas, Kentucky, Arkansas, West Virginia and Virginia, declared states of emergency. The storm will move offshore on Monday night, but bone-chilling arctic air is set to move in behind it. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Anna Pickel stands outside her recently opened child care center, Happy Go Lucky ChildCare, in Portland, Ore., more than three years after she began working to expand her business from a home-based center to a larger facility in 2021. (Courtesy of Anna Pickel) Reporting for this article was supported by New Americas Better Life Lab. Parking spots. Sprinkler systems. Earthquake building codes. These were some of the unexpected infrastructure issues Anna Pickel faced during the more than three years she sought a space to grow her home-based child care business near Portland, Oregon, from 15 children to 82. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She looked at more than 100 properties but found that most vacant retail storefronts had to be rezoned to be used as child care centers, or they hadnt yet been updated to meet the states earthquake safety standards and would be too expensive to renovate. At the same time, Pickel was getting daily calls from parents searching for child care spots for their children, but she had to turn them away because her in-home space was too small. Even when Pickel found a space in a mixed-use commercial and residential building, the construction costs ballooned so much that she had to put a lien on her home to secure a bigger loan. I was all in, with personal assets on the line, and it was a very big risk, Pickel said. I think a lot of people would have just given up. Multnomah County, where Portland is located, is considered a child care desert where there are more than three children for every regulated child care spot. Nationally, more than half of all Americans live in child care deserts, and the need for child care is especially great among families with low and middle-income families, families of color and families living in rural areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lack of providers nationally has driven up prices. In 2022, the median annual cost of full-day care was $15,600, more than the median rent of $15,216, the U.S. Department of Labor reported. The scarcity of affordable child care also keeps parents primarily women out of the workforce, and costs the U.S. economy roughly $122 billion each year in lost earnings, productivity and revenue, according to a report released last year by the nonprofit Council for a Strong America. To create more child care slots and reduce prices, lawmakers are increasingly using economic development strategies to help child care businesses expand, similar to the support theyve offered to attract and expand manufacturing facilities, technology startups or other types of businesses. Were recognizing that child care isnt just a womens issue or even a family issue, its an economic development issue because child care is work-enabling infrastructure. Lindsey Cochran, child care infrastructure fund coordinator, Business Oregon In states including Colorado, Nebraska, Oregon and Vermont, lawmakers from both parties have in recent years created building construction and renovation grant programs, appointed task forces to review local and state zoning regulations and set up help centers where child care business owners can get help with navigating permitting and other business rules so that they can expand their businesses and care for more children, which will help more parents stay in the workforce. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a novel approach to increasing access to child care, and, advocates say, it affirms that child care businesses 90% of which are owned by women, more than half of them women of color are economically critical, said Lindsey Cochran, the child care infrastructure fund coordinator with Business Oregon, the states economic development agency. Were recognizing that child care isnt just a womens issue or even a family issue, its an economic development issue because child care is work-enabling infrastructure, Cochran said. Focus on rural areas State lawmakers are particularly focused on growing child care businesses in rural areas. This year, Oregon is awarding its first batch of $50 million in grants and loans for new construction, expansion and renovation for child care businesses, with priority for child care providers in rural areas, those offering infant and toddler care, and those offering culturally specific care, such as care provided in Spanish or care tailored to children from Native American families. In Nebraska, the legislature created a pilot grant program to cover construction and renovation costs to add child care centers to the states nursing homes or assisted living facilities. The bill passed unanimously, but the $300,000 program is only large enough that three centers can participate in the first year, and the state is still working out specific safety standards, such as how to handle the common colds and flus in young children that can be harmful for seniors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, the legislation passed in large part because it addresses dual challenges facing rural Nebraska communities reclaiming vacant space inside senior care centers and keeping young parents from moving away. We know that in order to attract people, one of the biggest things for young parents is finding reliable child care in their community, said Jina Ragland, associate state director for advocacy and outreach with AARP of Nebraska, which advocated for the infrastructure grants. So, I absolutely think that, moving forward as this pilot program grows, it could be part of creating economic development in our rural communities. In addition to funding, states such as Colorado and Oregon are clearing the way for local zoning changes that could help more child care centers open, such as reworking neighborhood parking rules to allow for more cars to drop off and pick up children near a new center, or reconsidering requirements that in-home child care centers install the same fire sprinkler system as a center in a commercial building. Oregon convened a statewide task force to look for discrepancies in local and state-level zoning rules. For example, state rules allow 16 children in a family child care settings, but some local towns only allow 13 children. And Colorado created a planning grant program to encourage local governments to review and update their regulations to support the development of child care facilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We heard from so many child care providers, who, if they hadnt been determined on their own to open their centers, would have given up, said Colorado Republican state Rep. Mary Bradfield, sponsor of the bipartisan bill that passed unanimously and was signed into law by Democratic Gov. Jared Polis in May 2024. Colorado loses roughly $2.3 billion in economic activity each year due to lack of child care, according to the Council for a Strong America data. The measure also provides construction grants and technical help for child care providers navigating local regulations, and it orders the Department of Local Affairs to develop a menu of policy tools that cities can use to make it easier for child care businesses to open and grow. People can easily get lost in the language of permits and regulations if they dont have help from someone who knows what it entails, Bradfield said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Early evidence suggests this business-focused approach may be working. Vermont recently announced that, in the past year, 10 new centers have opened across the state, and licensed capacity in the system increased by 389 spaces, after the state awarded $20 million in infrastructure support to ready child care businesses for greater enrollment as the state rolled out increased subsidies for higher-income families in the fall of 2024. In a recent survey of Vermont child care providers, only 5% of respondents said they thought they would close down within a year, compared with nearly 20% whod predicted they would close when they took the survey two years earlier, before the state enacted the infrastructure and subsidy support changes. A bit of a culture shock But state economic development agencies have faced challenges in supporting child care businesses. Unlike other recipients of aid, many owners of child care facilities have no experience with public financing, do not have access to bank loans and are not represented by attorneys. Working with child care businesses has been a bit of a culture shock, said Cochran, of Business Oregon. To administer the first round of the infrastructure grants, the agency translated every piece of information about the grants into multiple languages, simplified its application forms, and funded a technical assistance center to answer questions from people who have not applied for public financing before. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The approach worked. For its first $10 million in grant awards, the agency received more than 700 applications for projects ranging from fixing a leaky roof to constructing a brand new center. The agency will make its awards decisions later this year, and advocates plan to request more funding in the future, given the volume of applications. Were hoping that its something we can continue to offer, because even $50 million, it goes fast, Cochran said. Providing child care businesses with the same economic development support as the state provides to other priority sectors, such as technology or manufacturing, sends a powerful message that child care businesses and the people who operate them are valuable to their communities and economies. Its a lot about changing our cultural values of thinking of [child care centers] as businesses, and not just something little that mostly women do on the side, said Erin Roche, Vermont director of First Childrens Finance, which is helping the state administer its child care infrastructure grant program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Portland, Anna Pickel is building up enrollment in her new 82-seat licensed child care center, Happy Go Lucky Child Care, which finally opened in September 2024. She continues to use her experience expanding her center to advocate for the new infrastructure funds and address the states regulations to make it simpler for other people to grow their child care businesses. I was one of the few people that could speak to those challenges because it is my life, Pickel said. Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org. Steve Bannon isnt letting the MAGA civil war fade away in 2025. The bombastic conservative podcaster took personal shots at the newly re-elected House Speaker Mike Johnson on his show Monday and asserted he now views scam H1-B visas as another form of illegal immigration. Those topics dominated right-wing circles early last week, but Bannon made clear hes not ready for the so-called MAGA civil war to subside just yet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bannon referred to Elon Musk as the South African on his show as he dissed H1-B visas, which allow foreign workers to be employed in specialty occupations stateside. Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, who have been hired to lead Donald Trumps Department of Government Efficiency program, have fiercely defended H1-B visas. Musk has gone as far as suggesting that those who disagree are retarded, while Ramaswamy infamously bashed U.S. culture in a bizarre post about the visas that admonished jocks, prom queens, U.S. sitcoms, and even Saturday morning cartoons. MAGA critics of the visa program, like Bannon and the far-right influencer Laura Loomer, have countered that they take away job opportunities from Americans and are abused by employers looking to pay less for skilled labor. As our coalition expands, particularly when the American people and African Americans and Hispanics and others understand that were going to tear down this phony legal immigration where the oligarchsthe sociopathic overlords in Silicon Valley now led by the South Africans, Bannon said, referring to H1-Bs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bannon then got sidetracked, remarking about Musk and other foreign-born leaders in the tech industry: That makes a lot of sense, doesnt it? Theyve done such a great job in their country, theyve come over here to tell us what to do in our country. Steve Bannon says he no longer views H1-B visas as a form of legal immigration. / Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images Bannon gave a similar rant to his Friday show listeners. He said then that he would like to see Trump put a moratorium on all immigration and work visas. Over at Twitter, the South African has got to understand, the South Africans have to understand... suppression didnt work in your own country, right? Bannon said. Its not going to work here in the United States of America, OK. Were free men and free women, and were winning right now and were going to continue to win and change these absurd and obscene, quite frankly, obscene policies. H1-B visa is obscene. We are calling for 100 percent moratorium on any immigration, any, for right now, full stop. Bannon blamed H1-B visas as the reason there are so few Black and Hispanic men in tech. He even went as far as suggesting during Fridays show that the competition brought in by visas may have led to the radicalization of the New Orleans terror suspecta veteran with a tech backgroundwho killed 14 early Wednesday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What would happen if he had gotten an IT job and was able to perform in the IT job and got training in the IT job? Bannon said Friday. Would he have been radicalized? I dont know. Bannon also made clear again on Monday that hes no fan of Johnson, despite the House Speaker being Trumps pick for the position he was re-elected to on Friday. Some in the MAGA world have complained that Johnson was not effective enough during his first leadership stint. Bannon said he fears Johnson will cause unnecessary delays for Trump as he tries to push through his policy priorities. Bannon referred to the House Speaker as Polly Pockets Johnson and said that he is sleazy. He suggested the Louisiana lawmakers greatest skill is diverting blame for GOP failures to Trumpa realization he said he reached this weekend. While some in the MAGA world have criticized Mike Johnson, the president-elect pushed for him to be re-elected as House speaker. / Brian Snyder / REUTERS Hes great at sloughing off responsibility and blame to President Trump, Bannon said. He has an innate ability to actually shift blame of his failures to President Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bannon said he fears Republicansunder the leadership of Johnsonwill try to pass an omnibus bill to usher in Trumps policy goals like mass deportations, tax reform, and tariffs on foreign goods. A single bill can be picked apart by Democrats and will be subject to delays, Bannon argued. He said he has heard that such a bill, which originally was slated to be proposed as early as April, may not reach a House vote until Memorial Day. With that coming shortly before a summer recess, Bannon said that Trumps most-pressing policy matters are at risk of being put on a side-burner until after Labor Day if they run into any sort of additional delays. Its too big, Bannon said of the bill. Its too complicated. You, Johnson, have failed. Failed already. PARIS (Reuters) - France's President Emmanuel Macron said on Monday he was still waiting for Africa's Sahel states to thank Paris for stopping them falling into the hands of militants and he dismissed suggestions his country had been forced out of the region. Speaking to French ambassadors at an annual conference on foreign policy for 2025, Macron said France had been right to intervene in 2013 to fight Islamist militants even if those same states had now moved away from French military support. "I think that they forgot to thank us, but that's ok, it will come in time," Macron said ironically. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement French troops have in recent years pulled out of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso after successive military coups and are in the process of withdrawing from Chad, Senegal and Ivory Coast. "None of them would have a sovereign state if the French army had not deployed in this region," Macron said. Macron dismissed the notion that Paris had been kicked out of the region, saying it had decided to re-organise its strategy. "No, France is not on the back foot in Africa, it is just lucid and reorganising itself," he said. (Reporting by John Irish; Editing by Angus MacSwan) The courts have blocked two bad tech laws, just in the nick of time. Both measuresin Tennessee, requiring proof of age to view adult content online, and in California, restricting social media features for minorswere set to take effect January 1. California's Anti-Algorithm Law Is on Hold In California, a court put the Protecting Our Kids from Social Media Addiction Act on hold. This measure would ban online platforms from using personalized recommendation algorithms to display content to people under age 18, set limits on when minors are allowed to use social media, and restrict the hours when social media companies can send minors notifications, unless parents consent for the platforms to do otherwise. The law said that as of January 1, 2025, tech companies had to implement these rules for accounts they had "actual knowledge" of belonging to minors (switching to a more stringent standard in 2027, when features would be restricted unless people could prove they are adults). The law also said social media companies must report how many minors hold accounts on their platforms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On December 31, following a suit by the tech trade group NetChoice, U.S. District Judge Edward J. Davila stopped parts of the law from taking effect. The state could not start enforcing the requirements for notifications or for reporting the number of minor users, Davila ruled. But the state could start enforcing the portion of the law concerning algorithmic feeds (which California calls "addictive feeds"). California considered Davila's ruling a "win." That was disappointing. There's an ongoing debate among legal scholars about whether algorithms areor at least can beexpressive content: If they reflect the platforms' editorial choices, the argument goes, the First Amendment should protect them. And the Supreme Court's July 2024 decision in NetChoice v. Paxton and Moody v. NetChoice lent support to the idea that algorithms can be protected speech. But here was Davila pooh-poing the idea "that most or all personalized feeds covered by SB 976 are expressive and therefore implicate the First Amendment." NetChoice filed an appeal with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit and asked the district court to halt the law in full while the appeal plays out. That worked: On January 2, Davila agreed to block the law in full until February 1, 2025. 'Adults Have a First Amendment Right' to Porn Meanwhile, U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman issued a preliminary injunction to stop Tennessee's attorney general from enforcing the Protect Tennessee Minors Act (PTMA). The lawaimed at regulating online content that the state deems "harmful to minors"is being challenged by the Free Speech Coalition (a porn trade group), Deep Connection Technologies (which runs a sex education platform called O School), and several others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "While it directly targets internet pornography, its reach is much broader," noted Lipman in a December 30 order. The law "equally captures three different types of expression: (1) content that is 'sexually explicit and harmful or inappropriate for minors,' (2) content 'designed to appeal to or pander to the prurient interest,' and (3) content depicting genitalia and sexual contact.If the expression fits into one of these three categories, then it is considered 'content harmful to minors' unless it contains 'serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value for minors.'" Under the PTMA, website operators could be criminally and civilly punished for failing to prevent minors from seeing such content. Any platform where a third or more of the content was "harmful to minors" would be required to verify all visitor agesreverifying every hourand block those under age 18. Failure to comply could result in being found guilty of a Class C felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison, and/or civil liability in suits brought by individuals or the attorney general. The lawsuit argued that the PTMA infringes on constitutionally protected speech. Lipman equivocally agreed. "The First Amendment is not shy in its protective sweep," she wrote: It sits at the top of our Bill of Rights as the "star in our constitutional constellation" because its light reaches orthodox and unorthodox expression alike.To be sure, freedom of speech is not absolute. But the door preventing the state from intruding into this area "must be kept tightly closed and opened only the slightest crack necessary" to promote state interests. Based on the record at this stage, it appears that Tennessee has wedged its foot in the door farther than the Constitution will likely tolerate. The Protect Tennessee Minors Act stands in a graveyard full of similar content-based restrictions at the state and federal level that livedand diedbefore it. The legislature has a compelling interest in protecting children from harmful content, and that is uncontested. But in its attempt to protect children, the State will unavoidably suppress a large amount of speech that adults have a First Amendment right to give and receive. The legislature's goal, however admirable, does not allow it to undermine an adult's freedom of speech. Neither the legislature nor this Court can turn a blind eye to the Constitution. This ruling is good news, but it doesn't entirely mean websites that publish sexually oriented content are in the clear. "Private civil lawsuits and actions by individual district attorneys remain a potential threat," suggests the Free Speech Coalition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Age verification laws in Florida and South Carolina did take effect on January 1. The group has been busy trying to swat down these laws in court as they pop up. It is currently suing in federal district court over the Florida law. And the group's suit over a similar law in Texas is headed to the Supreme Court this month. More Sex & Tech News On January 2, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit ruled that the Federal Communications Commission's "so-called 'Open Internet Order,' a variant of what is often referred to as 'net neutrality,' is unlawful," notes The Volokh Conspiracy. More specifically, it "was inconsistent with the statutory text of the Telecommunications Act." "We are now confident we know how to build [artificial general intelligence] as we have traditionally understood it," claims OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. "We believe that, in 2025, we may see the first AI agents 'join the workforce' and materially change the output of companies.We are beginning to turn our aim beyond that, to superintelligence in the true sense of the word. We love our current products, but we are here for the glorious future." The not-so-glorious present promises AI profiles on Facebook and Instagram. But why? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Biden administration asks the Supreme Court to uphold an impending law that will effectively ban TikTok, arguing that it does not violate the First Amendment (sigh). The Department of Justice alleges that the bill is "narrowly tailored to prevent the [People's Republic of China] from covertly manipulating TikTok." President-elect Donald Trump has also submitted a brief to the Court, stating that he "opposes banning TikTok in the United States at this juncture, and seeks the ability to resolve the issues at hand through political means once he takes office." The conservative case against age-gating porn. A group of Massachusetts students are facing criminal charges after attempting (and filming) their own To Catch a Predatorstyle sting. Some regions of Russia are paying college students to have babies. "Meanwhile, Russia's federal government offers maternity payments that went up at the start of the year," Fortune reports. "First-time mothers can now receive 677,000 rubles ($6,150) in 2025, up from 630,400 last year. And women who have a second child can get 894,000 rubles ($8,130), up from 833,000 rubles." Today's Image The view from my window right now. (ENB/Reason) The post Stop Overprotecting the Children, Say Courts in Tennessee and California appeared first on Reason.com. Jan. 6ANNAPOLIS A massive winter storm closed schools and government offices as it moved through the area Monday, but no significant emergency incidents had been reported by late morning, according to the the Department of Emergency Services. The region was under a winter storm warning issued by the National Weather Service through 1 a.m. Tuesday, with 6 to 10 inches of snow forecast for the Cumberland area. Some areas could see up to 12 inches. Snow began falling late Sunday, and several inches were on the ground early Monday. The National Weather Service reported about 4 inches in Accident and 3.4 inches in Cresaptown by 9:30 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both Maryland Gov. Wes Moore and West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice declared states of emergency for their states, warning the storm will cause hazardous road conditions and affect public transportation. "Keeping Marylanders safe is our top priority," Moore said. Please stay off the roads during this storm." "We are looking at 6-10 inches of snow fall with little or no wind since 11 p.m., Sunday," said Roger Bennett, acting director of the DES, as another round of snow was expected Monday afternoon and continuing into the evening hours. Bennett urged residents to stay home unless "absolutely necessary" as state, county and municipal road crews continued work to remove snow and keep roadways open. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The road crews have done a great job in keeping the roads open for emergency services," said Bennett late Monday morning, shortly before a briefing from the National Weather Service to update the storm status. No power outages had been reported in Allegany and Garrett counties by late Monday morning. Staying Safe During Winter Storms Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow. Watch for symptoms of hypothermia or frostbite it can set in quickly, especially if you have exposed skin or have been outside in the cold for an extended period of time. Avoid travel if possible. If you absolutely must travel, be sure to let someone know your route and destination before you go. Know your evacuation routes. If you're able, check on older neighbors or relatives who may live alone to see if they're doing well or need assistance. Monday: Monday will be cloudy, windy, and much colder with snow flurries or snow showers. Little to no accumulation is expected. IF anything sticks (And thats a big IF)High temperatures will occur around midnight in the 50s, but most of the day will have temperatures in the 30s with wind chills in the 20s. It will also be very windy. Winds will be around 15-25 mph with gusts around 35 mph. A Wind Advisory is in effect until 6 PM Monday for all of Central Alabama. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cold Blast: High pressure will move north of Alabama between Tuesday and Thursday. This will send very cold northerly winds across the state. Tuesday may have a few snow flurries in the morning but will become mostly sunny in the afternoon. High temperatures will be in the upper 30s with the wind chill in the 20s. Wednesday and Thursday will be mostly sunny and cold. Highs will be in the upper 30s. Lows will be in the upper teens to lower 20s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Next Weathermaker: The next round of precipitation arrives on Thursday night into Friday night. An area of low pressure will develop along the Northern Gulf Coast. Depending on where it tracks will make a difference on our forecast. Right now, it looks like it will move east right along the coast. This will send moisture/rain into the cold air over Alabama causing it to mix with freezing rain/sleet/snow during the morning. Slick spots could develop for the morning commute Friday. High temperatures will warm above freezing into the middle to upper 30s in the afternoon, and this will change the precipitation over to a cold rain over Central Alabama. The rain could change back to some light snow Friday night as the low move northeast into Georgia. Lows will be in the upper 20s to lower 30s. Weekend Outlook: Saturday could start with a few snow flurries. Otherwise, it will be cloudy and cold with highs in the upper 30s to lower 40s. Sunday will be mostly cloudy with highs in the 40s. Be sure to follow the CBS 42 Storm Team: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Follow Us on Facebook: Chief Meteorologist Dave Nussbaum, Meteorologist Michael Haynes, Meteorologist Alex Puckett, and Meteorologist Jacob Woods. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) Meet todays Stray of the Day: Dexter. Dexter is a six-to-nine month-old male, pit/lab mix puppy that will weigh about 65 pounds when hes fully grown. He was found on the 2300 block of Court Street. The rescue says hes a shy, quiet and gentle dog that gets along well with just about everyone. Dexter will be available for adoption on January 7. If youve lost your pet, are looking to adopt, or you would like to sponsor a pet for adoption, visit the rescues website at SiouxCityAnimalRescue.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Whether he's sitting alone in military regalia or departing from a church service, I can always count on King Charles to deliver a stunning royal portrait. And now, the monarch is kicking off the new year with yet another striking royal photo. The 76-year-old monarch attended the Church of St Mary Magdalene on a rainy Sunday morning this weekend, and he was seen departing the Sandringham estate with his umbrella. For the occasion, the king donned a trench coat over his gray suit, which he paired with brown shoes. Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The gloomy sky makes for a fascinating backdrop as the king looks off into the distancebut this isn't the detail that caught my eye. If you look closely at how he's holding his umbrella, it perfectly matches his son, Prince William, who shared a snap of himself wielding an umbrella in a similar fashion three months ago. If you need me to jog your memory, the prince donned a wide smile as he stood in the rain to film for an Earthshot Prize project. Thanks to all the greenery, the image looks like a scene from Into the Woods. The image is also quite similar to a photo the king took last July during his official visit to Jersey. Despite the heavy downpour, His Majesty was all smiles as he held his umbrella. Chris Jackson/Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although the king was diagnosed with cancer in February last year, he has since returned to his royal duties and appears to be in good spirits. For instance, King Charles joined his wife, Queen Camilla, for a visit to the University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre in April 2024. While there, he met and conversed with doctors and staff workers. In addition, per NBC News, just a few weeks ago, Buckingham Palace confirmed that his cancer treatment is "moving in a positive direction." Great to see that you're back in action, King Charles. Keep the striking royal photos coming. Stay up-to-date on every breaking royal family story by subscribing here. King Charles Breaks Royal Precedent with Filming of Major New Speech CHIPPEWA FALLS Enrollment in the Chippewa Falls School District has been declining in recent years, and a new UW-Madison study shows that trend is likely to continue. David Egan-Robertson from UW-Madison recently presented his 63-page report to the school board, with his projections showing the school district will continue to see a steady enrollment decline. Egan-Robertson works in the Universitys Applied Population Laboratory, and all models he ran showed a steady enrollment decline through 2034-35. A big part of the story is just smaller families and fewer children, he told the board at their December meeting. We do have to make some assumptions about births. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pre-K enrollment in 2015-16 was 367; this year that pre-k enrollment was 303. A projection Egan-Robertson ran indicated that number would decline to 271 by 2029-2030 and down to 234 by 2034-35. The enrollment declines have been low, but are adding up. In 2015-16, enrollment district-wide was 5,102. This year, enrollment was 4,535, or 577 fewer students. The enrollment this fall was 11% lower than 2016 youve been losing about 1% a year over the past decade, Egan-Robertson said. Even more concerning, the elementary school enrollment is down 16% since 2015-16, he wrote. Some suburban districts in Madison are seeing student growth, but rural areas in Wisconsin are generally declining, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also, the number of new students entering kindergarten and first grade are not matching the number of kids who are juniors and seniors. Youve got smaller cohorts entering the system, and larger cohorts graduating and moving on, he said. Its showing up in virtually all districts around the state. Egan-Robertson estimated the high school enrollment will decline from about 1,440 students across grades 9-12 to 1,350. In the elementary schools, the enrollment declines range from -3% to -12%, he added. Births in the district are declining by six to eight children a year, leading to a 15% decline in children ranging from newborns to age 4 in 2020, compared to 2010, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another problem is the gap between students enrolling into the district and the students opting to enroll elsewhere is widening. This year, 205 students open-enrolled in, but 429 enrolled elsewhere, he said. Private school attendance has increased rapidly since 2019-20, Egan-Robertson wrote. While it cannot be said with certainty that every privately enrolled student is a resident of the district, private schools within the districts borders saw their enrollments rise from 575 in 2019-20 to 876 in 2023-24. There are several new private schools in the districts boundaries in recent years, and Veritas Academy is planning to open its charter school on the East Hill in the fall, not far from Parkview Elementary. While new births are down, more people are now living in the boundaries of the school district, he added. In 2010, about 33,046 people lived in the school districts borders, but that population had grown to 35,834 by 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The population grew at a healthy rate, at about eight percent, he said. The school board just started working on a study to possibly revise the borders for the six elementary schools. The goal is to have that study completed by spring, with any changes to the borders implemented for the fall. Its very timely with the work our boundary committee is doing, Business Manager Chad Trowbridge said of the population study. As the world gets hotter, the weather is getting more extreme. Scientists predicted this effect, but unfortunately, even they couldn't foresee just how quickly climate disasters would ramp up. People in the Pacific Islands are being hit incredibly hard, experiencing seven to eight times more effects from extreme weather than they did just 10 years ago, per an Oxfam Australia report posted to Phys.org. What's happening? The study examined the impact of climate disasters such as tropical storms, comparing the most recent decade (2014-23) with the previous one (2004-13). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It found that between those two time periods, financial costs from extreme weather have increased eightfold. The difference is particularly pronounced in the last two years, reaching a peak of AUD$7.3 billion (about $4.5 billion). Not only that, but the productivity lost because of extreme weather events also takes a toll. The study found that the average GDP loss of Pacific Island nations was 14.3% this decade, compared to 3.2% in the 10 years prior. The number of people being impacted also rose 700%, from 80,300 to 607,000. In one particularly extreme case, the nation of Vanuatu lost 80% of its gross domestic product twice, in both 2015 and 2020. This kind of devastating blow is almost incomprehensible for larger nations such as the United States, which haven't been hit all at once by this type of disaster. Why is this increase important? All these figures add up to one fact: The world's rising temperature is having disastrous consequences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Right now, the island nations of the Pacific are among the most vulnerable, and the people there are already suffering from the changes in Earth's climate. What's being done about the climate disasters in the Pacific? In light of the disproportionate impact on the Pacific Islands, Oxfam called on Australia's Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, to set aside more of the country's aid budget for these nations, Oxfam Australia reported. In 2022-23, Australia offered AUD$265.9 million ($165.6 million) in climate financing to the region, less than 4% of the costs. Do you think we use too much plastic in America? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind "We recognize that the ambition from climate activists in the Pacific and around the world is for a climate finance goal that is in the trillions," said Eunice Wotene, Oxfam in the Pacific's executive director, per Oxfam. "To the Australian government and many other western governments, this might seem too ambitious but if this research shows anything, it is that the scale of climate damage is beyond what we have imagined and getting worse by the day." 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. Jan. 6AUGUSTA Organizers of an effort to require Maine voters to show photo identification before filling out their ballots have turned in petitions to put the measure on a citizens' referendum this fall. The group behind the effort submitted the petitions Monday and said they contain more than 170,000 signatures, far more than required to force a statewide vote. The Department of the Secretary of State must review and certify the petitions before the referendum is put on the ballot. "Maine people are reasonable," said Rep. Laurel Libby, R-Auburn, one of the lead organizers of the effort. "They want to have confidence that we have strong elections in our state and they understand that requiring an ID to vote is not radical. It's not extreme. It's common sense." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Supporters of the proposal, which would be on the November ballot, say it would strengthen Maine election law, and point to similar laws in 36 other states that already request or require voters to show identification at the polls. Only 21 states ask for a photo ID while another 15 also accept non-photo IDs, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Opponents have said that voter ID laws are a form of voter suppression that would disenfranchise people across Maine. And Secretary of State Shenna Bellows on Monday called the proposal that is being brought forward a "wolf in sheep's clothing" because of other provisions it contains that would make it harder to vote absentee and that would introduce new rules and procedures for elections staff, such as requiring a bipartisan team of election officials to collect absentee ballots from drop boxes. "Reading this bill, I have many concerns," Bellows said. "Reasonable people can agree to disagree about whether specific types of voter ID should be shown when you go to vote ... but the citizen's initiative presented to us today has so much more that is really problematic." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PHOTO ID REQUIRED Among other things, the proposal would require people to present a photo ID at the polls or when requesting an absentee ballot, unless they have a religious exemption to being photographed. Acceptable forms of ID would include a Maine driver's license or nondriver identification card; U.S. passport or passport card; or a U.S. military, Maine National Guard or U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs identification card. Voters without a photo ID could cast a provisional ballot, which would be counted if they produce a photo ID within four days of the election. It would also require the secretary of state to provide free nondriver state IDs to people who need them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Enacting a statewide voter ID requirement has been proposed repeatedly by Republicans in the Maine Legislature in recent years, but has been blocked by Democrats, who have criticized the costs of such a program and warned that the new requirement would create long lines at the polls and effectively discourage voting. "Why it's needed is because 170,000 people have petitioned their government now with their signatures to get it on to the ballot, saying they want this commonsense policy solution for Maine," said Alex Titcomb, who was also a leader in the signature-gathering effort and who serves as the executive director and co-founder of The Dinner Table, an organization dedicated to conservative causes. Asked for more details about why people are saying they want the measure in place, Titcomb said, "I don't think people need a why." "It's a no-brainer," he said. "It's common sense. A lot of people ... already walk up with their ID in hand. They don't even think about it." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rosa Landeen, of Topsham, was among several dozen supporters of the measure who stood behind Libby and Titcomb during a news conference at the State House wearing white T-shirts that said, "Voter ID for ME." Landeen said the ID requirement would prevent people from voting under someone else's name. "I don't really seem the harm in having it," she added. "I got carded for spray paint at Walmart a couple weeks ago. So if we need it for spray paint, why don't we need it to vote?" Bellows said Maine's election laws are already strong and there are very few cases of fraud. She is opposed to requiring ID when a person goes to vote because it is already required for voter registration. And in some states, ID requirements have led to some legitimate voters being turned away and can increase wait times, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The League of Women Voters of Maine, a nonpartisan organization that encourages active and informed political participation, issued a written statement last week opposing the proposal, saying they see voter ID laws and measures to curtail absentee voting as forms of voter suppression. "It's disappointing to see Mainers try to impose these barriers on their fellow Mainers' right to vote, when this state is justly proud of its high voter participation rates," said Anna Kellar, executive director of the league. "These restrictions can and will harm every type of voter." PROPOSAL MORE THAN VOTER ID Bellows, a Democrat, said she was surprised to see some of the other measures that are included in the proposal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It puts in place a process for voters who don't have their ID's at the polls to return to their registrar of voters within four days to present their ID and have their ballot counted, which she said would conflict with the current requirement that municipalities have just two days from the day of an election to certify results. The proposal also requires municipalities to only have one secured drop box for absentee ballots, and removes a part of current law that allows towns and cities to install additional drop boxes. And there's a prohibition on municipalities prepaying the return postage of an absentee ballot. It sets up a new requirement for a "bipartisan team of election officials" to collect absentee ballots from drop boxes, as opposed to current law which dedicates that responsibility to the municipal clerk or two people designated by the clerk. It also rolls back the deadline to request an absentee ballot from the third business day before the election to the seventh, repeals ongoing absentee voting, where a voter can sign up to have an absentee ballot mailed to them automatically for each election cycle, and prevents an authorized third party from delivering an absentee ballot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bellows said such measures would make it harder for older people and people with disabilities to vote and would politicize the process in municipalities, many of which are small and might have a hard time meeting some of the new requirements. She said they do "nothing to increase election security and indeed, might undermine our longstanding reputation of being in the top of the nation in running elections and having high voter turnout." Titcomb, meanwhile, said the other elements in addition to requiring a photo ID are mostly minor and that some details would still need to be worked out through rulemaking with the secretary of state's office. "To drop the requirement for drop boxes down to one rather than having multiple I don't see that as causing any harm to any citizen," he said. "This proposal requires proof of photo identification at the point of casting a ballot," Titcomb said when asked about criticism that the proposal would deter people from voting. "Whether that's in-person on Election Day or absentee early voting, (voters) will learn that new requirement in order to cast their ballot." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And requiring bipartisan teams to collect ballots would create more security, Titcomb said. "It's not that there's anything currently wrong, but it enhances trust in the process," he said. Thirty-six states already have laws requesting or requiring voters to show some form of identification at the polls, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. There are also varying degrees of how strict states are with their requirements, and it's likely that what is being proposed in Maine would place it among the strictest states. Only nine states currently have strict photo ID requirements where voters who fail to present a photo ID must vote on a provisional ballot and also take additional steps after Election Day for it to be counted. In others, a voter may sign an affidavit of identity, or poll workers may be permitted to vouch for the voter. In order for citizen initiatives to get on the ballot, supporters must submit a required number of signatures from registered Maine voters to the secretary of state. That number is equal to 10% of the number of votes cast in the last gubernatorial election, or 67,682 based on the results of the 2022 gubernatorial election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The secretary of state's office has 30 days to certify the signatures submitted. The Legislature would also have the opportunity to consider the proposal as legislation if it meets the signature requirement and could choose to pass the proposal or send a competing measure to voters. Copy the Story Link Veterans who earned education benefits while serving separate stints in the U.S. military could be eligible for up to 12 additional months under a new program announced Friday by the Department of Veterans Affairs. The move, unveiled Friday in Colorado by VA Secretary Denis McDonough before the Student Veterans of America's national conference, follows a U.S. Supreme Court decision in April favoring a veteran who sued the government over eligibility under the separate Montgomery and Post-9/11 GI Bill programs. According to the announcement, veterans who served at least two separate periods of military service and met standards for either GI Bill program could receive up to 12 additional months of benefits, depending on their time served. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read Next: Tricare West Region Beneficiaries Get More Time to Update Payment Information Under the previous policy, veterans who served in separate periods were eligible for up to 36 months of education benefits under one program or the other. The U.S. Supreme Court, in a 7-2 decision, ruled that veterans were eligible for up to 48 months of benefits under both programs if the veteran had been enrolled in both. The VA said the change could affect 1.04 million veterans, although attorneys for the veteran who sued the VA, James Rudisill, said in legal arguments that 1.7 million veterans could be eligible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This policy will not only help veterans who apply for GI Bill benefits in the future -- it will also allow VA to provide additional benefits to many veterans who used GI Bill benefits in the past," Under Secretary for Benefits Joshua Jacobs said in a statement Friday. "Under this new policy, many veterans will get [an] additional 12 months of GI Bill benefits." VA officials said they will automatically adjudicate claims for 660,000 veterans known to be eligible and will reach out to other eligible veterans directly to notify them of the additional benefits. Veterans who paid into the Montgomery GI Bill, served at least two years and received an honorable discharge were eligible for education benefits worth up to $2,400 a month. The Post-9/11 GI Bill, introduced in 2008 with a requirement that service members agreed to serve an additional four years and had served at least three years on active duty after September 2001, greatly expanded education benefits, increasing coverage for tuition, fees, housing and books, and allowed for transferability to dependents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The VA also announced Friday that it has extended the expiration dates for using GI Bill benefits under the new policy. According to the department, for each veteran with multiple periods of service who chose the Post-9/11 GI Bill over the Montgomery GI Bill, the VA will reinstate the time they had remaining at the time of their election plus 90 days. For example, according to the department, if a veteran chose to use the Post-9/11 GI Bill at a time when they had five years left to use the Montgomery GI Bill, they would be given five years plus 90 days to use any additional Montgomery GI Bill benefits. To receive an expiration date extension, applications must be submitted by Oct. 1, 2030. The VA has established a web page on the Supreme Court's decision, its impact on veterans, and how to apply for the additional education benefits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the department, the VA has paid $143 billion to date in Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to 2.7 million beneficiaries. Related: Supreme Court Hears Arguments on Education Entitlements Under Different GI Bills TOKYO A bluefin tuna sold for more than $1.3 million at an annual fish auction in Tokyo in what organizers said was the second-highest bid since the event began in 1999. The 608-pound bluefin tuna, which is about the size and weight of a motorcycle, was purchased for 207 million yen ($1,316,835) at the new year auction at the Toyosu market, the main fish market in Tokyo, by seafood wholesaler Yamayuki and Michelin-starred sushi chain operator Onodera Group. The Onodera Group has won the auction for five consecutive years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first tuna is meant to bring good fortune, company President Shinji Nagao told reporters at the market right after the auction. Our hope is that by eating this tuna everyone will have a good year. According to local media, the highest-ever bid at the yearly auction was 333.6 million yen ($3.1 million at the time) in 2019, a few months after the famed Tsukiji Market moved to Toyosu. It was paid by Kiyoshi Kimura, the head of another chain of sushi restaurants, who is known as the Tuna King of Japan. Prices dropped in the following years as the Covid-19 pandemic limited dining out. Arata Yamamoto reported from Tokyo and Kim Gu from Hong Kong. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com A 28-year-old has been arrested out-of-state in connection with a fatal shooting that killed one man outside an Arlington nightclub in November, police said. Luigin Alberto Perez-Millan has been charged with murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, Arlington police said in a news release. Hes being held at the Seward County Detention Center in Nebraska while he waits extradition back to Texas. Arlington police responded to the Opium nightclub in the 3200 block of Justiss Drive around 5:25 a.m. on Nov. 17. A man with gunshot wounds was lying unresponsive in the parking lot, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Tarrant County Medical Examiner identified the victim as 22-year-old Janderver Saul Urbina-Betancourt. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Detectives believe Perez-Millan and the victim both attended an event at the nightclub, police said. Urbina-Betancourt and another person were arguing in the parking lot shortly before 5:25 a.m. when someone opened fire. Urbina-Betancourt was fatally struck, but the individual hed been arguing with wasnt injured. That witness later identified Perez-Millan from a photo lineup as the shooter, according to the release. Multiple other witnesses also came forward with information that helped identify the suspect, police said. Investigators dont believe Perez-Millan and the victim knew each other or had any interaction prior to the shooting. Its unknown why the suspect fired toward Urbina-Betancourt and the other individual. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nebraska State Police and members of the U.S. Marshals Service located Perez-Millan on a highway in Seward County, Nebraska, on Saturday, Dec. 28. They pulled him over and arrested him without incident, according to the release. More top stories from our newsroom: Families of missing trio cling to hope after 50 years More Fort Worth high schoolers are earning college credit tuition-free Tarrant County DAs Office sought indictment of man after his death [Get our breaking news alerts.] OAK GROVE, Ky. (WKRN) A man wanted in connection with a deadly carjacking at a Southern Kentucky truck stop has been taken into custody after leading law enforcement on a pursuit in Illinois, officials said. According to the Humphreys County Sheriffs Office, 36-year-old Brian Lee Kerr Jr. is believed to be the primary suspect in a deadly carjacking that took place on Dec. 28 in Oak Grove, Kentucky. Kerr reportedly shot the victim multiple times and drove the stolen vehicle to Humphreys County. RELATED: Man dead following shooting at Oak Grove truck stop Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While in Humphreys County, Kerr dumped the stolen vehicle in Oak Grove and stole another vehicle, which is believed to be a deer hunters truck, deputies said. Kerr then crashed the truck in Maury County. Authorities reported Kerr was believed to be armed with two handguns and an AR-15 rifle, adding he had a prior conviction from 2004 for first-degree murder in Tennessee. According to deputies, further investigation revealed Kerr has violent tendencies and is a frequent methamphetamine abuser. On Jan. 5, days after the deadly Oak Grove carjacking, Kerr led officers on a pursuit in Illinois. Officials said he was later arrested by Illinois State Police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Man taken into custody in connection with another mans death in Bowling Green The Humphreys County chief deputy said Kerr was wanted for multiple charges in the county including theft over $10,000, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and many others. It remains unclear what additional charges Kerr will face for his alleged role in the deadly carjacking and Illinois pursuit. No additional details were immediately released. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. > < 23:55 IC814 Captain Devi Sharan retires from AI after 40 years IC814 Captain Devi Sharan/File image After flying for four decades, Devi Sharan, the captain of the ill-fated Indian Airlines flight IC814, has retired from the airline. Sharan, who turned 65, operated a Dreamliner aircraft from Melbourne to Delhi on January 4. It was his last flight. In a message, Sharan thanked his... Read more > 23:07 Cowpea seedlings onboard ISRO's POEM-4 sprout first leaves in space Cowpea seedlings sprout first leaves in space/Courtesy ISRO on X Cowpea seedlings onboard PSLV-C60 POEM-4 module sprout their first leaves in space, signifying a milestone in space-based plant research, ISRO said on Monday. According to India's national space agency, the Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies, developed by the Vikram Sarabhai... Read more > 22:52 Investors on edge as fin firm shuts Mumbai offices File image Hundreds of investors on Monday protested after finding the office of an investment firm locked in Navi Mumbai amid allegations of a scam, the police said. Many investors claimed they had invested their life savings in the company's schemes which promised them substantial returns over a... Read more > 22:38 Tigress found dead in Bhandara district, electrocution suspected; one held File image A tigress was found dead in a forest in Maharashtra's Bhandara district on Monday, following which one person was detained for questioning, an official said. The carcass of the 3-year-old tigress was found in compartment number 74 in Jhanjhariya in Tumsar forest range, he added.... Read more > 22:12 Canadian PM Justin Trudeau resigns Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Monday that he will resign amid growing discontent with his leadership and recent turmoil, highlighted by the sudden departure of his finance minister, reports Associated Press. Trudeau acknowledged that it was clear he couldn't lead during... Read more > 21:31 Human remains found in refrigerator of abandoned house in Kerala File image Human remains, including a skull and bones, were found inside an abandoned house near Chottanikkara in Ernakulam district on Monday, the police said.The remains were found stored in a fridge within the house, which has reportedly remained unoccupied for two decades.The property, situated on an... Read more > 21:12 Nadella meets Modi, discusses AI Microsoft chairman and CEO, Satya Nadella on Monday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. After the meeting Nadella tweeted, Thank you, PM Narendra Modi for your leadership. Excited to build on our commitment to making India AI-first and work together on our continued expansion in... Read more > 20:54 Prashant Kishor released from jail: Police Prashant Kishor Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor was released from jail on Monday evening, hours after he was sent to judicial custody upon refusal of bail, the conditions of which were initially dubbed by him 'unreasonable'. It was not immediately known whether Kishor accepted the bail conditions... Read more > 20:50 IIM Bengaluru student dies after falling off hostel bldg File image The death of a student of the Indian Institute of Management, Bengaluru (IIM-B), Nilay Kailashbhai Patel, who had presumably fallen off the second floor of his hostel, has sparked an online debate on caste-based discrimination. Several posts on 'X' weigh in on the possibility of the student... Read more > 20:23 3 members of Tajpuriya-Mann gang held in Delhi, arms seized File image The Delhi police arrested three active members of the Tillu Tajpuriya-Parvesh Maan gang and recovered two pistols, a revolver, and 39 live cartridges from them, an official said on Monday.Those nabbed have been identified as Deepak (36), Ankit (24) and Sagar (24), the official said.Deepak, a... Read more > 20:04 NDRF rescues nine family members from drowning in Ganga File image The National Disaster Response Force personnel stationed at the Maha Kumbh Mela site rescued nine members of a family from drowning in the Ganga River on Monday, officials said. An NDRF official stated that deputy inspector general Manoj Kumar Sharma was visiting Arail Ghat on Monday when he... Read more > 19:39 Two children test positive for HMPV in Chennai Two children have tested positive for Human Metapneumovirus and are currently undergoing treatment, a health official said on Monday. These two are the first cases to be reported from the city from two hospitals. Further details are awaited. Meanwhile, officials of the state health... Read more > 19:27 Anti-Sikh riots: SC to hear in July plea of Sajjan Kumar against punishment Former Congress leader Sajjan Kumar (left)/File image The Supreme Court will in July hear the pleas filed by former Congress leader Sajjan Kumar and the party's former councillor Balwan Khokhar against sentences awarded in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots case. A bench of Justice J K Maheshwari and Aravind Kumar on Monday clarified if the final hearing... Read more > 19:07 SpaDeX docking postponed to January 9: ISRO Indian Space Research Organisation on Monday said the docking experiment of SpaDeX satellites scheduled for January 7 is now postponed to January 9. In a post on X, the Bengaluru-based space agency said, The SpaDeX docking scheduled on (January) 7th is now postponed to 9th. The docking... Read more > 18:54 Table Space founder Amit Banerji dies at 45 Table Space founder Amit Banerji/Image courtesy X Amit Banerji, founder of Table Space -- a managed flexible workspace provider -- has died on Monday. Banerji, who founded Table Space in 2017, was about 45 years old. In a statement, Bengaluru-based Table Space informed about his death. It is with deep sadness that we announce the... Read more > 18:37 One held for posting derogatory remarks on Malayalam actor Honey Rose Malayalam actress Honey Rose (right)/File image A man was arrested on Monday and at least 30 people were booked for allegedly posting obscene remarks on the social media page of Malayalam actress Honey Rose, the police said. The arrested man was identified as Shaji, a 60-year-old hailing from nearby Panangadu. The case was registered... Read more > 18:03 Several feared trapped inside Assam coal mine File image Just In: Several people feared trapped inside a coal mine in Umrangso area in Dima Hasao district of Assam. We can't say the exact figure as of now, said Mayank Kumar Jha, superintendent of police, Dima Hasao. More details soon. -- ANI Read more > 17:59 Three killed, 4 hurt as two groups clash over water supply in Maha village File image Three persons were killed and four injured after two groups clashed over water supply from a well in a village in Maharashtra's Dharashiv district, the police said on Monday. The incident took place late on Sunday night at Bavi village in Vashi tehsil under the jurisdiction of Yermala police... Read more > 17:44 Ambulance hits Tirumala devotees, two women dead Two women devotees on their way to Tirumala died at Chandragiri in Tirupati district in the wee hours of Monday after being hit by an ambulance, said a police official. A 108-ambulance coming from Piler hit the devotees around 4 am between Rangampeta and Mangapuram, said the... Read more > 17:05 Don't panic, not transmissible: K'taka on HMPV File image Following the detection of two Human Metapneumovirus cases in the state, the Karnataka government on Monday urged people not to panic as the virus is not as transmissible as Covid-19. Emphasising that the respiratory virus primarily affects children, causing infections similar to the common... Read more > 16:49 4 tourists get stuck in frozen lake in Arunachal Four tourists fell into the frozen Sela Lake in Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh, while attempting to walk on its icy surface, an official said on Monday.However, they were safely pulled out of the icy water, the district official said.The incident took place at the scenic lake, located at an... Read more > 16:38 Two SUVs found with same number plates near iconic Taj hotel in Mumbai File image Two cars with the same number plates were found parked near the iconic Taj Mahal Palace hotel at Colaba in south Mumbai on Monday, the police said. Both cars were taken to Colaba police station along with their drivers for a probe, an official said. The incident came to light at around... Read more > 16:12 Techie, family of 3 found dead in Bengaluru Four members of a family, including two children, were found dead at their rented home in Bengaluru, the police said on Monday. The deceased have been identified as Anup Kumar (38), his wife Rakhi (35), and their two children aged 5 and 2. According to police, the couple was found... Read more > 15:51 9 killed after Naxals blow up security vehicle in C'garh Eight jawans and a driver were killed in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district when Maoists used an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) to blow up their vehicle. The nine were returning from an operation when the IED blew up the Scorpio SUV at Kutru in the Bastar region around 2.15 pm. Read more > 15:42 After B'luru, Gujarat reports its 1st HMPV case A two-month-old boy admitted to a private hospital in Ahmedabad has been detected with Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection, an official said on Monday. The infant, who hails from Dungarpur in Rajasthan, was admitted to the hospital, located in Chandkheda locality here, on December 24 with... Read more > 15:25 TN guv leaving House without reading address 'childish': Stalin Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin lashed out at State Governor RN Ravi for leaving the assembly without delivering his customary address on Monday, calling it childish, and charged the latter with continuously insulting the people of the state.Why was Ravi sticking to his gubernatorial post... Read more > 15:08 Atishi breaks down over BJP leader's remark against her Delhi Chief Minister Atishi breaks down during a press conference over Bharatiya Janata Party leader Ramesh Bidhuri's remarks targeting her.Ramesh Bidhuri, who is BJP's candidate from the Kalkaji assembly constituency, sparked a controversy on Sunday by making a personal jibe at Atishi, claiming... Read more > 14:58 Bishnoi ordered to kill Siddique to instil fear: Cops Police on Monday filed a charge sheet in Nationalist Congress Party leader Baba Siddique's murder case stating that gangster Anmol Bishnoi carried out the killing to create an atmosphere of fear through his organised crime syndicate.The 4,590-page charge sheet was filed in a special court against... Read more > 14:32 India condemns Pak airstrikes on Afghanistan File image India on Monday unequivocally condemned Pakistani airstrikes on Afghanistan and said it is Islamabad's old practice to blame its neighbours for its internal failures. Pakistan carried out airstrikes in certain areas in Afghanistan in what it said was aimed at targeting some terrorist... Read more > 14:06 'Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai' to re-release on Hrithik Roshan's birthday Multiplex chain PVR INOX on Monday said it is set to re-release Hrithik Roshan's debut film Kaho Naa.. Pyaar Hai to mark its 25th anniversary on January 10, coinciding with the actor's birthday.The musical romantic thriller, directed by Hrithik Roshan's father, filmmaker Rakesh Roshan,... Read more > 14:03 Ahead of Delhi poll, Cong promises Rs 2,500 to women The Congress on Monday announced a 'Pyari Didi Yojana', promising a monthly financial assistance of Rs 2,500 to women if voted to power in Delhi. The scheme would be rolled out on the lines of the model adopted by the Congress government in Karnataka. Announcing the scheme, Karnataka... Read more > 13:58 Nitish's 'mistake' reply to Lalu's 'doors open' remark Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday ruled out the possibility of quitting the National Democratic Alliance, pointing out that his ties with the Bharatiya Janata Party went back a long way.The Janata Dal-United supremo, who termed as a mistake his two short-lived alliances with the... Read more > 13:43 Class 11 student held for Kumbh Mela bomb threat Kumbh Mela The Uttar Pradesh police has detained a Class 11 student from Bihar's Purnia district for allegedly threatening to bomb the Maha Kumbh Mela starting January 13 in Prayagraj, officials said on Monday. Senior Superintendent of Police (Kumbh), Rajesh Dwivedi, said the 17-year-old student, who... Read more > 13:00 Kejriwal's 'Sheesh Mahal' costs Rs 75-80 cr, claims BJP The BJP on Monday claimed that a CAG report raised 139 questions related to former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's previous Flagstaff Road residence and exposed his black deeds.No immediate reaction was available from AAP on the charges.Addressing a press conference, the BJP's Delhi... Read more > 12:40 CJI Khanna recuses himself from hearing pleas related to IOA, AIFF constitutions Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna on Monday recused himself from hearing two separate pleas pertaining to finalisation of the constitutions of the Indian Olympic Association and the All India Football Federation, both framed by former apex court judge Justice L Nageswara Rao. At the... Read more > 12:18 Markets crash after 2 HMPV cases detected in India Indian stock market crashed with both the benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty 50, falling amid heavy selling across the board after the detection of two HMPV cases in Karnataka and reports of a virus outbreak in China. Read more > 12:10 Injured Bumrah likely to miss majority of home white-ball series Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who sustained back spasms, is likely to be rested for the majority of India's home white-ball series against England, keeping an eye on the ICC Champions Trophy, starting from February 19.Bumrah, who was India's stand out player with 32 wickets in their 1-3... Read more > 11:27 Ladki Bahin affecting farm loan waiver: Maha min Maharashtra Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate has said the Ladki Bahin Yojana is creating a burden on the state coffers, affecting its ability to implement the farm loan waiver scheme.The Ladki Bahin scheme, launched by the previous Eknath Shinde-led government in August last year to provide a... Read more > 11:09 3.7 tremor jolts Maharashtra's Palghar district A tremor of 3.7 magnitude jolted Maharashtra's Palghar district early Monday morning, officials said, but there was no report of any casualty or property damage. The tremor was recorded at 4.35 am in Dahanu taluka, district disaster management cell chief Vivekanand Kadam said citing an... Read more > 10:40 TN guv walks out of assembly over National Anthem High Drama was seen on Day 1 of the Tamil Nadu assembly session as governor R N Ravi did not deliver his customary address, citing a serious issue concerning the National Anthem. According to a statement from the office of Raj Bhawan, upon the Governor's arrival at the assembly, only... Read more > 10:33 FIR against Maha man for threatening Eknath Shinde Thane police have registered an FIR against a 26-year-old man for allegedly threatening to harm Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, an official said on Monday. Search was on for the accused, identified as Hitesh Dhende, a resident of Varli Pada in Thane city, Sri Nagar... Read more > 10:21 Around 60 flights delayed at Kolkata airport due to poor visibility Around 60 flights were delayed at the Kolkata airport on Monday due to poor visibility, an official said.Due to dense fog, low visibility procedures (LVP) had to be implemented at the airport from 7 am, the official said.According to the Director of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International... Read more > 09:56 India reports 1st case of HMPV virus in Bengaluru An eight-month-old baby has been detected with the HMPV virus in Bengaluru, according to media reports.This makes it the first case in India amid a surge in such cases in China.The HMPV, or human metapneumovirus is usually detected in children under the age of 11 and about 0.7 per cent of all flu... Read more > 09:44 Snowfall hits flight operations at Srinagar airport Umar Ganie/Rediff.com Flight operations at the Srinagar International Airport were affected on Monday due to snowfall in the Kashmir valley, officials said. The snow clearance operation is in progress at the runway. All airlines have pushed their flights after 9:30 am, an Airports Authority of India official... Read more > 09:30 Key accused in Chh'garh journalist murder case held Suresh Chandrakar, the prime accused in the murder of a journalist in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district, has been taken into custody by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) from Hyderabad, a police official said on Monday. The accused, a contractor by profession, was absconding since the murder... Read more > 09:07 Canadian PM Justin Trudeau likely to resign: Report Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to announce his resignation as Liberal Party leader amid growing dissent within his caucus, The Globe And Mail reported, citing sources. The sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity, emphasised that the exact timing of Trudeau's... Read more > 08:24 Jarange booked over remarks against Munde The police in Maharashtra's Beed district on Sunday booked Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange for allegedly making defamatory remarks against minister Dhananjay Munde and creating divide between two sections of society, an official said. The FIR against Jarange was registered at Parli... Read more > Jan. 5The Stevens County Sheriff's Office arrested a man in Chewelah, Washington, over the weekend who allegedly struck a patrol vehicle and attempted to run over a Spokane County deputy last Friday. Justin Van Slyke, 36, was booked into the Spokane County Jail early Sunday morning on multiple felony charges, including assault, hit-and-run and a pair of charges for attempting to evade law enforcement, according to the county's inmate log. Van Slyke reportedly eluded Spokane County deputies in two separate police pursuits Friday in Spokane Valley, striking a patrol car and trying to run over a deputy in the process, according to the Stevens County Sheriff's Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Spokane County Sheriff's Office notified its law enforcement partner in neighboring Stevens County on Friday that their suspect may be headed to the Chewelah area. Van Slyke was picked up by Stevens County deputies, who exercised a search warrant at a Chewelah residence he was staying at, and then was transferred to a Spokane County deputy, according to a news release from the agency. BEDFORD-STUYVESANT, Brooklyn (PIX11) Police are searching for a man in connection to a string of fires in Bedford-Stuyvesant. All three incidents happened near 100 Ralph Avenue and were intentional, police say. More Local News The first incident occurred at approximately 11:25 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 6. The second incident took place around 1 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 18, and the last incident happened at about 1:24 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 1. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No one was injured during any of the incidents, police say. The suspect is described to be around 25 to 30 years old, and is 510, and 190 pounds, according to the NYPD. He was last seen wearing a dark jacket, gray hooded sweatshirt and sweatpants, and gray and white shoes. Police released the following surveillance photo of the suspect. Courtesy of the NYPD Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ben Mitchell is a digital content producer from Vermont who has covered both local and international news since 2021. He joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of his work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A chase Saturday night ended with an SUV crashing into a Columbia home and causing a gas leak, according to the Forest Acres Police Department. The incident began at about 10:50 p.m., when officers responded to a call about people arguing and fighting in the 1600 block of Atascadero Drive, police said Sunday in a news release. Thats just off Forest Drive, less than half a mile from a Trader Joes grocery store. The officers determined the group, which included juveniles, was attending a party at a rental house, according to the release. While questioning the tenant, officers saw a Nissan Armada leave the backyard and nearly hit people standing outside, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers followed the SUV and saw it turn onto Ponte Vedra Road, about half a mile from the rental home, when it turned off its headlights and accelerated, according to the release. Officers attempted a traffic stop as the SUV drove off and rounded a corner, where the driver lost control and the vehicle crashed into the front of a home, police said. A woman was sitting on the porch of the home that was hit by the SUV, according to the release. Neither the woman nor any of the people inside the home was injured, police said. Ring camera footage from the home showed seven people get out of the SUV and immediately run away after the crash, according to the release. The SUV also hit the homes gas meter, creating a hazardous gas leak, police said. The Columbia Fire Department, Dominion Energy and the South Carolina Department of Transportation were called to repair the gas leak, according to the release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The damaged home and surrounding homes were evacuated as crews dug up the gas line and turned it off, police said. Information about how long it took to stop the leak and how much gas was released was not available. No injuries were caused by the gas leak, police said. As crews worked on the gas leak, additional officers and a police dog searched for the people who had fled the crashed SUV. Officers established a perimeter off Covenant Road, according to the release. Two adults and a juvenile were found hiding in a creek, police said. All three were interviewed and released pending the investigation, which includes officers speaking to witnesses, reviewing surveillance footage, and processing the SUV and evidence found inside it, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are extremely relieved that no innocent residents were injured in what could have been a tragic situation, Forest Acres Police Chief Don Robinson said in the release. From the reckless driving to the resulting gas leak, this incident put lives at risk. We are working diligently to identify the driver and will pursue charges to hold them accountable for their reckless actions. Anyone with information about the crash or those involved is asked to call CrimeStoppers at 888-CRIME-SC or submit an online tip. A Swiss International Air Lines flight made an emergency landing last month. The Airbus A220's cabin was filled with smoke after encountering an engine problem. An autopsy said a flight attendant died due to hypoxic brain damage, Blick reported. A 23-year-old Swiss International Air Lines flight attendant died due to a "severe lack of oxygen to the brain," according to an autopsy reported by Blick, Switzerland's largest newspaper. It comes after an incident on December 23, when Swiss Flight 1885 encountered engine problems, and the cabin was filled with smoke. The Airbus A220 was flying from Bucharest, Romania, to Zurich when it made an emergency landing in Graz, Austria. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All 74 passengers and five crew members were evacuated, 17 of whom required medical attention, the airline said. A week later, Swiss announced that one of the flight's cabin crew members died in the hospital in Graz. "We are devastated at our dear colleague's death," said CEO Jens Fehlinger. "His loss has left us all in the deepest shock and grief. Our thoughts are with his family, whose pain we cannot imagine." Blick reported that the public prosecutor's office in Graz has launched an investigation into the flight attendant's death. A spokesperson told the newspaper that a Friday autopsy found the provisional cause of death to be hypoxic brain damage and cerebral edema, meaning brain swelling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The brain was massively damaged by a severe lack of oxygen, and the young flight attendant died of it in the intensive care unit," the spokesperson told Blick. "We are also looking into the role played by the respiratory mask that the flight attendant was wearing," he added. The Graz public prosecutor's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment sent by Business Insider. Swiss said the investigation's initial findings point to a problem in one of the plane's Pratt & Whitney engines. "We have no indication that the safety of the aircraft type is in question," it added. Read the original article on Business Insider Syria's new foreign minister has met with Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Qatar's prime minister and foreign minister, for talks in Doha, as the de facto authorities under Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) aim to establish diplomatic ties with regional and global governments. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani posted on X that he will also visit Jordan and the United Arab Emirates to develop strategic partnerships and support Damascus' security and economic recovery. Al-Shibani met with his Saudi counterpart in Riyadh on Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And he also welcomed the foreign ministers of Germany and France in Damascus on Friday. HTS led a lightning insurgency that ousted former President Bashar al-Assad on 8 December, ending his family's decades-long rule. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani, left, meeting with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Doha, 5 January, 2025 - AP/AP From 2011 until Assad's downfall, Syria's uprising and civil war killed an estimated 500,000 people. Much of the world ended diplomatic relations with al-Assad because of his brutal crackdown on protesters and sanctioned him and his Russian and Iranian associates. Now, Syria hopes to re-establish those ties and lift sanctions slapped on HTS and leader Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, to help make its battered economy viable again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Al-Assad was backed by Russia, Iran and Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. HTS now hopes Syria can strengthen ties with Arab countries in the region. Qatar supported opposition groups that fought against al-Assad and his allies and was one of a few Arab countries that opposed restoring ties with the former president and was against Syria's return to the Arab League in 2023. "We conveyed to Doha our concerns about the challenges related to the economic sanctions imposed on the Syrian people and we renew our call on the United States to lift those sanctions," Syrian radio station Sham FM quoted Al-Shibani as saying. Syria's de facto leader Ahmad al-Sharaa meets with the German and French foreign ministers in Damascus, 3 January, 2025 - AP/AP Around 90% of Syrians live in poverty, while more than half of the population doesn't know where their next meal will come from, according to the United Nations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Al-Sharaa has said he will hold a national dialogue summit that includes different groups across Syria to agree upon a new political road map leading to a new constitution and an election. He vowed to dissolve HTS during the summit and said in an interview with Saudi television network Al-Arabiyya that the interim government would come from the same political background during this transitional phase to ensure efficiency in running the country. Still, it's unclear whether Washington will lift sanctions anytime soon. Europe, meanwhile, appears hesitant because of fears over how religious minorities and women will be treated. Taiwan said it believes China was behind damage to one of its undersea cables. It said a Cameroon-flagged vessel damaged a cable in the Taiwan Strait. It comes after similar incidents involving cables in the Baltic Sea were also linked to sabotage. Taiwan suspects China of being behind damage to a crucial subsea communications cable just off its northern coast. The damage occurred on Friday near Keelung, according to The Taipei Times, with Taiwanese coast guard officials believing a Cameroon-flagged vessel, the Shunxin 39, was responsible. Despite being Cameroon-flagged, the ship is reportedly owned by a Hong Kong firm. According to reports, the Taiwanese coast guard ordered the vessel to stop so it could be investigated, but because of rough weather conditions officials were unable to board the tanker, which continued on to its destination in South Korea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is another case of a very worrying global trend of sabotage against subsea cables," a senior Taiwanese national security official told The Financial Times. Marco Ho Cheng-hui, CEO of Taiwanese civil defense organization Kuma Academy, told The Taipei Times that China was testing the limits of international tolerance through escalating "grey zone" attacks, or covert attacks to undermine its security. "This is not an isolated event," he said. As an island, Taiwan is highly vulnerable to subsea cable disruptions, and analysts have warned that it's a weakness China could target as tensions escalate further. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cable damaged Friday was the $500 million Trans-Pacific Express cable linking Taiwan and other parts of East Asia with the US West Coast, according to reports. The cables run for thousands of miles under the sea. Chunghwa Telecom, one of the companies that operates the cable, said that the damage didn't cause major disruptions as it was able to divert data. The incident is the latest possible attack on underwater cables. In the Baltic Sea, there's been a series of mysterious cable severances in recent months, which European officials said could have been caused by Russian sabotage. On Christmas Day, energy and telecoms cables were severed near Finland, with Finnish officials saying a tanker likely used by Russia to evade oil sanctions was responsible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Chinese vessel, NewNew Polar Bear, was also linked by European officials to damage to subsea cables in the Baltic in November. Analysts told Business Insider last year that China and Russia see undersea cables as potential targets amid growing tensions with the US and its allies. China has long menaced Taiwan, and the US has signaled that it could help Taiwan defend itself if it was attacked. Read the original article on Business Insider A Chinese-owned vessel is suspected of severing an undersea cable off the Taiwanese coast recently, according to authorities on the island. Taiwans coast guard requested that the cargo ship return to shore for an investigation, but it eventually continued its passage. Last Fridays incident is the latest to have affected Taiwanese cables and is part of a pattern of similar events that have also occurred recently around Europe. The international fiber-optic telecom cable was cut early Friday morning, around 7:51 a.m., near Taiwans Keelung Harbor. The Trans-Pacific Express cable belongs to the Taiwanese government-run Chunghwa Telecom, which connects East Asia with the U.S. West Coast. According to Chunghwa, communication could be rerouted via other cables, with services experiencing minimal disruption. In what might be a #China grey zone warfare tactic against #Taiwan a Cameroonian registered freighter with a Chinese name SHUNXIN39 cut a Chunghwa Telecom undersea cable off Taiwans north coast on Saturday. This is the 21st time Chinese ships have cut Taiwanese undersea cables pic.twitter.com/yaAuec4f5v Special Taiwan (@TaiwanSpecial) January 6, 2025 The cable in question is one of around a dozen connecting Taiwan to other countries in the region, and Chunghwa says the break was caused by a vessel snagging it and dragging it across the seabed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the center of the incident is the Shunxin-39, a Cameroon-flagged cargo ship that Taiwanese authorities say is owned by Jie Yang Trading Limited, a Hong Kong company headed by Guo Wenjie, a citizen of China. Taiwanese authorities say that seven of the crew members on board were Chinese nationals. A Chinese ship damaged a telecommunications cable off the coast of Taiwan. pic.twitter.com/I03GAKI6uS MilitaryNewsUA (@front_ukrainian) January 6, 2025 Confusingly, the ship was also registered in Tanzania and appeared to be operating under two separate identities on the Automatic Identification System (AIS) the tracking system that provides a ships name, specifications, and coordinates in real-time. Vessels being registered in more than one location are not unheard of in international shipping, where the precise owners of a given ship are frequently hard to determine. According to Col. Ray Powell, director of SeaLight, an initiative at Stanford University that tracks Chinas pressure tactics aimed at Taiwan, the Shunxin-39 had actually used as many as six different AIS numbers over the past six months, and at least two different names. Ship that damaged #Taiwan's submarine cable seems to have operated under at least 2 names (Shunxing39 & Xingshun39), 2 flags ( Camaroon & Tanzania) & 6 Maritime Mobile Service Identities (MMSI) between Keelung & Puson over the past 6 months. (Hat tip: @Byron_Wan) https://t.co/m93GUZf6Hupic.twitter.com/4jvqVMTBc8 Ray Powell (@GordianKnotRay) January 6, 2025 Multiple reports indicate that Taiwanese authorities believe that the vessel was involved in the incident, whether deliberate or otherwise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Combined with the multiple identities, suspicions have been raised by the fact that the vessel was sailing back and forth in waters near Taiwan in the past two weeks, according to one Taiwanese security official. While its intentions remain unclear, the possibility of a Chinese provisional vessel conducting gray zone harassment couldnt be ruled out, the Taiwanese Coast Guard said. The cargo ship was intercepted by the Taiwanese Coast Guard around eight miles off the north coast of Taiwan late on Friday, after a nine-hour mission to track it down. According to Facebook page Taiwan ADIS, Coast Guard Administration intercepted a Tanzania-registered container ship with Chinese name XINGSHUN39 (MMSI 677087200) but apparently all media in Taiwan reported it as Cameroon-registered SHUNXIN39 after it was suspected of pic.twitter.com/LUJnxy2CHJ Byron Wan (@Byron_Wan) January 4, 2025 Although it was ordered to move closer to shore for an investigation, rough weather prevented any member of the Coast Guard from boarding the vessel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, the Shunxin-39 was able to continue en route to the Port of Busan in South Korea. The Taiwanese Coast Guard says it has notified the corresponding South Korean maritime agency about the case. Although they were not able to investigate the vessel, Taiwanese authorities say they have collected radar data and navigation records that will be provided to prosecutors for further investigation. As to the suspicion of potential deliberate sabotage by the Shunxin-39, the deputy head of Taiwans digital ministry, Herming Chiueh, told The Wall Street Journal that the cable-cutting was likely intentional. You need to accidentally [drop your] anchor on the cable, and then you need to accidentally turn on your engine with the anchor down, and even [if] you realize your anchor is down, you need to keep the engine moving until you cut the cable, Chiueh said. Chiueh added that he recently met with European counterparts to discuss the vulnerability of undersea cables. He said that there was a growing consensus that vessels suspected of sabotage needed to be stopped and searched immediately because once it is sailing back to China, you cant do anything. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whether deliberate or not, the incident last Friday was the latest in a series that has affected Taiwanese undersea cables. In February 2023, for example, two undersea internet cables running between Taiwan and the island of Dongyin, part of the Matsu Islands, and roughly 30 miles off the coast of China, were severed by a Chinese fishing boat and a cargo vessel, according to Taiwan authorities. The island was left without internet access for weeks. Fishermen on a jetty at a harbor on Beigan Island in the Matsu archipelago. The tiny Matsu archipelago was left without internet communications in February 2023, after two undersea cables were cut. Photo by JACK MOORE/AFP via Getty Images JACK MOORE In Europe, meanwhile, disruption to undersea infrastructure is fast becoming a regular feature, especially in the Baltic Sea. In a recent incident of possible sabotage in the Baltic, on Dec. 25, 2024, an undersea power cable between Finland and Estonia was severed, with suspicion falling on one of Russias so-called shadow fleet of oil tankers. After being seized by Finnish Police, the ship in question, the Eagle S, was found to be kitted out with special transmitting and receiving devices that were used to monitor naval activity, according to a source with direct involvement in the ship, Lloyds List reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A month before that, Denmark confirmed it was monitoring a Chinese cargo vessel at the center of allegations surrounding damage to two communication cables in the Baltic Sea. The Chinese bulk carrier Yi Peng 3 is anchored and monitored by a Danish naval patrol vessel in the sea of Kattegat, on Nov. 20, 2024. Photo by MIKKEL BERG PEDERSEN/Ritzau Scanpix/AFP via Getty Images In another prominent incident, back in October 2023, a Hong Kong-registered containership, the Newnew Polar Bear, was accused of damaging the Balticconnector natural-gas pipeline and data cables by dragging its anchor along the seabed in the Gulf of Finland. Also in this incident, the suspect ship rapidly left the area, headed toward Russia, without authorities investigating it. Incidents like these have highlighted the vulnerability of critical undersea infrastructure to sabotage, especially as part of so-called gray zone tactics or a hybrid warfare campaign of the kind that NATO officials have repeatedly warned Russia is currently embarking upon. For Taiwan, the concerns are very much the same, although China is the antagonist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Taiwan already faces regular large-scale Chinese military maneuvers directed at it, including practice blockades of the island as well as exercises featuring so-called precision strikes. This is in addition to less-obvious tactics designed to undermine Taiwanese self-rule and democratic institutions. A PLA Navy Type 072A (Yuting II) class landing ship sails toward a zone that China said it would conduct live-fire exercises northeast of Pingtan Island, the closest point in China to Taiwan, in Chinas southeast Fujian province on April 10, 2023. Photo by GREG BAKER/AFP via Getty Images Any Chinese military move on Taiwan which Beijing views as a rogue province that is fully within its sovereign territory would very likely be preceded by efforts to knock out undersea communications infrastructure, strangling the data flow to and from the island. Only last month, the Taiwanese military ran a war game based on potential Chinese aggression, in which one of the scenarios involved a communications blackout caused by the severing of undersea cables. Meanwhile, the importance of having more robust communications is something that Taiwanese officials have been concerned with for some time now. So far, it has been far from easy to attribute cable-cutting incidents to any particular culprit, be it Russia, China, or another actor altogether, but there seems little doubt that these kinds of activities are increasing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the Shunxin-39 escaping investigation on this occasion, it seems unlikely that the cable cutting off the Taiwanese coast will ever be traced definitively back to Beijing. On the other hand, the incident is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of this kind of critical infrastructure. For Taiwan, in particular, it will also be seen as another example of Chinas willingness to employ a wide range of tactics, many of them unorthodox, to try and undermine the islands independence. Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com As Luc Boillot slept the night before, he said he dreamed of the Epiphany cross retrieval. So when he rose out of Spring Bayou today, white cross in hand, it was hard to tell the difference between fact and fiction. It was unlike anything Ive ever experienced, said Boillot, 17, of Plantation in South Florida. It really didnt feel real. Despite a chance of rain and enhanced security presence due to the recent terror attack in New Orleans, the 119th Epiphany celebration in Tarpon Springs proceeded as planned, with Boillot joining the coveted ranks of previous cross retrievers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Often a family affair, generations of sons, fathers, grandfathers and cousins have participated in the jump Boillots dive carried on a tradition. Hes the grandson of Rev. Fr. Tryfon Theophilopoulos, who led the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral for 30 years and has a hall named after him in the building. And he has two uncles who have won the dive competition. This was Boillots second try, and he said the experience was incredible, emotional [and] spiritual. Hes a lifeguard, which helped with the swimming, he said with a chuckle. Boillot said he and his uncle, who won 40 years ago today, cried together after his victory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spectators cheered from the green, grassy banks of the bayou, and family members of the divers watched on the dock, with nerves and excitement. It was windy and partly cloudy, but the rain didnt come until a few hours after the ceremony. Once the dive was finished, the boys walked back to the cathedral with Boillot lifted in the air. Its very emotional for me because of my father, [and] both of my brothers caught the cross, said Kathy Boillot, Lucs mother. I feel truly blessed. There was a noticeable police presence in the area, with law enforcement vehicles blocking car access near the bayou. There were officers from agencies around Tampa Bay, including Tarpon Springs, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, New Port Richey, Pasco County, Pinellas County and Tampa. Tarpon Springs Police Chief Jeff Young said officials took additional safety precautions this year in light of the deadly truck attack in New Orleans last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every event that we have, we enhance based on threats around the nation or locally, he said. Well reach out to any other agencies, federal included, to get resources or information that may help us to provide better security. Tarpon Springs Epiphany, dating back to 1906, is considered the largest in the Western Hemisphere and usually draws more than 20,000 people even the Prime Minister of Greece has attended. This year Maira Myrogianni, a Greek diplomat, was in attendance. Tarpon Springs has a large Greek population, with nearly 1,000 families on the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral membership rolls, according to its website. The cathedral hosts the multiday event, which consists of a series of cultural and spiritual activities. But the grand finale is the Blessing of the Waters ceremony: A white dove is released, then the archbishop casts a white cross into the Spring Bayou and dozens of young men, 16-18 years old, jump in to grab it first. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros, primate of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and the highest leader of the Greek Orthodox Church in the country, blesses the winner, who is said to receive a year of blessings from God. Some followers are critical of the exclusion of girls in the ritual. St. Nicholas' dive coordinator, Michael Kouskoutis, has acknowledged that many other Orthodox churches allow girls to participate in the cross dive. But the Tarpon Springs church sees the boys as a representation of Christ emerging from the Jordan River reborn after his baptism. Girls are allowed to participate in other aspects of the event, including as Dove Bearer. This role symbolizes the connection between the Holy Spirit and Christs baptism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Michalia Makryllos, a 17-year-old senior at Tarpon Springs High School, was chosen as this years bearer. Makryllos, born and raised in Tarpon Springs, said she had some nerves on Monday morning but was really excited for the celebration. This year, her younger brother dove for the first time and her cousin tried for his last a full circle moment, she said. We all grew up really close, so its a really nice experience to be able to share this day with them, she said. (Reuters) - Iran said on Monday the detention of an Iranian national in Italy at the request of the U.S. amounted to hostage-taking. Iranian businessman Mohammad Abedini was detained in Milan last month. He is wanted by the United States on suspicion of involvement in a drone strike against U.S. forces in Jordan. Iran has denied involvement. His arrest has been linked to the detention three days later of Italian reporter Cecilia Sala, who was seized in Tehran on Dec. 19 while working under a regular journalistic visa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We regard the pursuit or extradition of Iranian nationals in certain countries as a form of hostage-taking," Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei told reporters. "The main accusation against them is circumvention of unilateral U.S. sanctions," he said in a televised news conference in Tehran. "Fabricating a judicial cover to trap Iranian nationals is illegal, immoral, and a violation of human rights." Asked if Sala's detention was linked to Abedini's arrest in Italy, Baghaei said: "These matters are not related in any way." Abedini was detained at Milan's Malpensa airport on a U.S. warrant for allegedly supplying drone parts that Washington says were used in the 2023 attack that killed three U.S. service members in Jordan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abedini is currently being held in prison and a court is due to decide this month whether to grant him house arrest while judges consider the U.S. extradition request. Italy's foreign ministry summoned the Iranian ambassador last week to demand Sala's immediate release and said it had relayed "serious concern" over her detention. In recent years, Iran's security forces have arrested dozens of foreigners and dual nationals, mostly on charges related to espionage and security. Rights groups have accused Iran of trying to extract concessions from other countries through such arrests. Iran denies this. (dubai.newsroom@thomsonreuters.com; Editing by Ros Russell) Hospitals around the UK are feeling the strain of the current flu outbreak even though it has not been classed as an epidemic. In Scotland latest figures show that the number of people with a flu-like illness has doubled. A similar increase is predicted in England and Wales. In Liverpool hospitals have cancelled all non-emergency surgery to try and cope with a shortage of beds. Some patients have had to stay overnight on trolleys while they wait for treatment. In London all the capitals 275 intensive-care beds are full. Health experts also say that the outbreak has been made worse by the fact that vulnerable people such as the elderly have not been vaccinated. The Public Health Laboratory Service said the uptake was not what it should be in the high-risk groups. The crisis offers an easy target for opposition politicians seeking to explode Labours jubilant post-election promises of radical NHS reform. Nineteen US states and several European countries are currently stretching their medical capacities to the limit as flu epidemics take hold. Royal College of Nursing general-secretary Christine Hancock told the BBC that the problem lay not in a shortage of actual beds, but in hospitals having too few nurses to accompany them. But Sir Alan Langlands, chief executive of the NHS, said he was confident people were getting the right care. He said: Anyone who will benefit from intensive care is getting that care from the health service. Courtesy BBC News In context A few days later, Professor Liam Donaldson, the governments chief medical officer, made controversial claims that the UK was experiencing its first flu epidemic for a decade, despite the fact that statistics suggested the outbreak was only halfway towards reaching epidemic status. The huge influx of patients coupled with staff sickness left many hospitals struggling not only to tend the living, but even to store the dead. At some hospitals, refrigerated lorries were used as temporary mortuaries as existing facilities were overwhelmed. The knock-on effects were immense. Most trusts started to cancel routine planned surgery and thousands of patients were affected. The government blamed the problem on what they said was the worst flu outbreak for a decade. But the opposition said it was exaggerating the effects of the current flu outbreak to cover up the failings of its health policies. Seven Tennessee and Kentucky bishops are the latest to join the chorus of U.S. Catholic leaders expressing solidarity with immigrants over the uncertainty surrounding President-elect Donald Trumps hardline proposals such as mass deportation. We pledge that the Catholic Church in Kentucky and Tennessee will continue to accompany and serve migrants with every possible resource, the Tennessee and Kentucky bishops said in a Dec. 29 statement. We will continue to advocate for your just treatment and dignity as our Catholic Social Teaching instructs in every way that we are able to do so. Catholic Diocese of Nashville bishop Rev. J. Mark Spalding (left) and Louisville diocese archbishop Rev. Shelton Fabre (right) at a July 26, 2024 ordination ceremony for Knoxville diocese bishop Rev. Mark Beckman. Spalding, Fabre, and Beckman were among seven total Catholic bishops in Tennessee and Kentucky to show support for immigrants in a Dec. 29, 2024 statement amid a chorus of Catholic leaders expressing similar sentiments. This latest statement, though it doesnt explicitly refer to Trump by name, alludes to ongoing heightened discussion surrounding our migrant community has engendered fear and uncertainty. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in a collective statement and 30-plus U.S. bishops in additional statements have echoed similar sentiments following Trumps election in November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps strong anti-immigrant rhetotic on the campaign trail has worried faith voices across the denominational spectrum, and Catholic voices especially due to the churchs support for immigrant rights through parish ministries and nonprofits like Catholic Charities. The Tennessee and Kentucky bishops statement is specifically about their support for legal immigration while they also prioritize just and humane treatment of all migrants, including access to legal protections, and due process, the Dec. 29 letter said. Catholic Diocese of Nashville bishop Rev. J. Mark Spalding (left) and Knoxville diocese bishop Rev. Mark Beckman (seated) at a July 26, 2024 ordination ceremony for Beckman. The two bishops joined five of their peers in a Dec. 29, 2024 statement to show support for the immigrant community. The letters signatories are Tennessees three Catholic leaders Bishop J. Mark Spalding of the Nashville diocese, Bishop David Talley of the Memphis diocese, and Bishop Mark Beckman of the Knoxville diocese and Kentuckys four Catholic leaders, who Archbishop Shelton Fabre of the Louisville diocese, Bishop William Medley of the Owensboro diocese, Bishop John Stowe of the Lexington diocese, and Bishop John Iffert of the Covington diocese. Starting in November, similar statements have received endorsements from bishops in Arizona, California, New Mexico, Iowa, Nebraska and Kansas. Other Catholic leaders are seeking ways to equip their communities ahead of any potential drastic action by the federal government to detain and deport immigrants. As examples, National Catholic Reporter said a diocese in Washington state provides Know Your Rights resources, while Religion News Service highlighted efforts within the San Antonio, Texas diocese to distribute a form of identification known as congregational IDs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal, state and even municipal policy will supersede churches best efforts to support and perhaps even shield immigrations. For Tennessee, Gov. Bill Lee has already expressed willingness to assist the incoming Trump administrations actions on immigration. Various Kentucky and Tennessee Catholic leaders at a July 26, 2024 ordination ceremony for Knoxville diocese bishop Rev. Mark Beckman. Catholic leaders from the neighboring states issued a joint statement showing support for immigrants on Dec. 29, 2024. Theres little available data about immigration demographics within Tennessee or Nashvilles Catholic community, though Pew Research Center reported last April about 40% of Catholics in the South are Hispanic. Due to the growth of Hispanic parishioners within the Nashville diocese, prospective area priests who are studying in seminary are learning to be bilingual in English and Spanish. Other recent on area Hispanic Catholics: Spanish-speaking church becomes Nashville's newest, largest Catholic parish Liam Adams covers religion for The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at ladams@tennessean.com or on social media @liamsadams. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessee, Kentucky bishops join in support for immigrants Tennessee pregnancy-related deaths have declined overall but disparities persist based on geographic, racial and economic lines. (Photo: Getty Images) Pregnancy-associated deaths in Tennessee declined overall by 26% in 2022 after spiking during the height of the COVID epidemic, but disparities persisted along racial, economic and geographical lines, according to a new report released by the states Health Department. Black women, unmarried women, poor women, women with less education and women living in urban areas continued to die at higher rates in Tennessee during their pregnancies and in the postpartum year that followed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The kind of health insurance pregnant patients had played a key role, too. Pregnancy-related mortality rates among women relying on TennCare the states Medicaid insurance program for people living in poverty were nearly three times higher than those with private health insurance, the report found. In the 33 counties that comprise the eastern third of the state, pregnancy deaths spiked alarmingly in 2022, a trend state officials attributed largely to substance use disorder. East Tennessee experienced a fourfold increase in these deaths in 2020-2022 compared with 2017-2019. The burden of these deaths is not shared equally significant disparities persist across racial, socioeconomic and geographic groups, read the report, which noted 76% of the 2022 pregnancy-related deaths were preventable. Tennessees annual review of pregnancy deaths, released in late December, encompasses 2021 and 2022, a period marked by the COVID pandemic and Tennessees abortion ban, making clear long-term trend lines difficult to assess. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both COVID-era years saw an increase in pregnancy-associated deaths. In 2019, for example, Tennessee saw 63 such deaths. In 2020, when the pandemic began, there were 98 maternal deaths. In 2021, there were 134 an increase the reports authors noted also reflects the addition of new hospital discharge data. By 2022, deaths had declined to 100. In August 2022, Tennessees near-total abortion ban took effect, providing narrow exceptions for serious health risks in pregnant patients. Doctors and reproductive rights advocates criticized the laws exceptions as so vague they prevented physicians from providing life-saving care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the law had been in place for two years, a three-judge state panel concurred with that view, ruling that portions of the states ban were vaguely worded. The panel in October 2024 temporarily blocked Tennessees ban as it applies to certain dangerous pregnancy complications. A series of investigative stories by ProPublica chronicled maternal deaths from infection, hemorrhage and other pregnancy-related causes in other states that have largely banned abortions, and political pressure on state maternal mortality review committees to avoid highlighting these deaths. Tennessees maternal mortality report was compiled by a multidisciplinary team of state government and private sector health care experts. The report focuses on maternal deaths between 2021 and 2022. The report encompasses the time period in which the states abortion ban took effect, but includes no reference to the states abortion policy or assessment of whether it played any role in Tennessees pregnancy deaths. The report distinguishes between pregnancy-associated mortality any death that occurred during pregnancy and in the year after childbirth and pregnancy-related mortality, a subset of all maternal deaths specific to pregnancy complications. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pregnancy-associated mortality includes factors such as domestic violence and homicide well-documented risk factors in pregnancy that are not directly linked to a patients ongoing physical health. Pregnancy-related mortality is specific to health conditions brought about or exacerbated by a pregnancy. While deaths related to the pregnancy-related complications dropped overall by 15% in 2022 over the prior year, these deaths comprised a larger proportion of all maternal deaths. Among the reports recommendations are a series of education, screening and training improvements for hospitals and health care providers. The report found that half of all contributing factors in pregnant patients deaths occurred at the provider level, including failure to recognize early warning signs of complications. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recommendations include increasing state funding for high-risk pregnancy interventions and expanding health insurance coverage for women of reproductive age. One recommendation aimed at law enforcement agencies encourages better lethality assessments in domestic violence incidents. Domestic violence claimed the lives of four pregnant Tennessee women in 2022. Report- Maternal Mortality in Tennessee SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Rep. Justin Jones, D-Nashville, photographed in April 2023, continues his lawsuit against the state House Speaker alleging his constitutional rights are being violated. (Photo: John Partipilo) A Tennessee House Democrat expelled from the Legislature for helping lead an anti-gun rally is continuing a legal battle against the Republican House speaker, saying his constitutional rights are being violated. Rep. Justin Jones of House District 52 in Nashville filed a memorandum in U.S. District Court on Dec. 30 amending his complaint against Speaker Cameron Sexton and three House staff members, challenging a motion they filed to dismiss the case. In addition to Sexton, Jones filed the lawsuit against House Chief Clerk Tammy Letzler, Chief Sergeant at Arms Bobby Trotter and House Assistant Chief Clerk Daniel Hicks, saying they repeatedly sought to silence him and prevent him from dissenting on issues such as reasonable gun control, a violation of his federal and state rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jones says the violations started when the defendants unlawfully expelled him and Rep. Justin Pearson, a Memphis Democrat, in April 2023 following a hearing on the House floor. Rep. Gloria Johnson of Knoxville, also a Democrat, narrowly escaped expulsion. Jones and Pearson were reappointed by local elected bodies to their seats less than a week after being expelled, then won re-election twice. Jones filed his updated complaint in an effort to seek relief from continuing violations in advance of the 2025 session that starts Jan. 14. He says the defendants move to dismiss his complaint has no merit and that his case should proceed before U.S. District Court Judge Eli Richardson. House Speaker Cameron Sexton, left, confers with House Republican Majority Leader William Lamberth of Portland during the April 2023 hearing that resulted in the expulsion of Nashville Democratic Rep. Justin Jones. (Photo: John Partipilo) Jones says the defendants turned off his microphone and voting machine on March 30 when he tried to make a parliamentary inquiry about Sextons ban on his Halt the Assault lapel pin. Jones, Pearson and Johnson entered the House well moments later and protested for strong gun laws, which led to the expulsion hearing. Jones says Sexton and the other defendants then punished him for exercising his right to free speech, removing him from committees, revoking his access to the Capitol and legislative garage and then expelling him and Pearson, both of whom are Black, while allowing Johnson, who is white, to remain a House member. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The expulsion was unprecedented, Jones filing says, adding that in the Houses 200-year history, only three members had been removed for alleged criminal conduct. Jones filing says efforts by Sexton and the other defendants to silence him continued through a special session in 2023 on public safety when new rules were introduced giving the House speaker expansive powers to control debate. Jones filing says the rules prevented him from asking for a vote of no confidence in Sexton. Violations continued through the 2024 session, Jones says, when the House set new rules controlling debate between members and seating in public areas. Jones says Sexton continued to abuse his power and target him by singling him out and repeatedly silencing and censuring him to prevent dissent. Sexton and the other three defendants filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit last fall saying the U.S. District Court lacks jurisdiction to handle the case because Jones has no standing to file suit and due to state sovereign immunity. They also said Jones claims are barred by personal immunity defenses and that the complaint fails to make a claim for which relief can be granted. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE A major change for Texans is now official. House Bill 3297 went into effect Jan. 1, meaning vehicle safety inspections will be a thing of the past for most Texans. In 2023, HB 3297 was signed into law, removing the requirement for state inspections of noncommercial vehicles. Here's what this means for drivers needing to renew their registration in 2025. Why did Texas eliminate mandatory vehicle inspections? Lawmakers and supporters argued that eliminating the annual inspection requirement would save Texas drivers money. One-year and two-year (for new vehicles) safety inspections cost $7, and up to $18 more for safety emissions inspections, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The safety and emission items during the inspection would include: Brakes Tires Fuel system Headlights Tail lights and turn signals Exhaust system Mirrors Proponents also noted that eliminating the requirement would make things more convenient for Texas drivers, particularly in rural areas where access to inspection stations might be limited. It would also reduce the administrative burden for the state government, which had to oversee the inspection program. All noncommercial vehicles in the state will be subject to a $7.50 Inspection Program Replacement Fee. This fee will be added to the total when you register your vehicle with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. New vehicles purchased in Texas that have not been previously registered in Texas or another state are required to pay an initial inspection program replacement fee of $16.75 to cover two years. Is an emissions test still required in Texas? Your vehicle might still need to pass an emissions test, depending on the county you live in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Drivers in counties surrounding major Texas cities like Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, El Paso and Houston are required to undergo mandatory emissions tests. San Antonio will be added to this list in the future. What Texas counties require emissions testing? Here are the counties that will require emissions testing to comply with federally mandated clean air requirements: Brazoria Collin Dallas Denton El Paso Ellis Fort Bend Galveston Harris Johnson Kaufman Montgomery Parker Rockwall Tarrant Travis Williamson Bexar County will join this requirement in 2026. How much do safety emissions tests cost? In Texas, the cost of emissions tests varies depending on the county and type of vehicle, but typically ranges from $11.50 to $25.50. Counties that require emissions testing include the larger metropolitan areas like Houston, Dallas, and Austin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here is what you would pay in the following counties: Safety emissions ( El Paso, Travis & Williamson counties): $18.50 Safety emissions ( Dallas, Tarrant & Harris counties): $25.50 Emissions-only vehicles (El Paso, Travis & Williamson counties): $11.50 Emissions-only vehicles (Dallas, Tarrant & Harris counties): $18.50 Pricing for safety emissions testing covers safety and emissions inspection, while an emission-only inspection tests exhaust systems and emissions outputs. The inspection cost is determined by the county of registration and the type of inspection required. Diesel-powered vehicles and motorcycles are exempt from emissions testing but are still required to have the annual safety inspection, according to Texas DPS. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Texas ends mandatory vehicle inspections in 2025. Here's what it means Long-simmering tensions within the Texas GOP are spilling out into the open amid a heated battle for the state House Speaker seat. The fight underscores long-standing friction between the rump of what was once the Texas partys establishment and the rising far-right faction that now controls most of the states government. It pits state Rep. Dustin Burrows, a top ally to outgoing Speaker Dade Phelan (R), against state Rep. David Cook, who was voted the state GOPs Speaker nominee last month, in a struggle that risks further fracturing the state Legislature as it meets to confront some of Texass most serious problems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Burrows-Cook stalemate has already spilled bad blood across the Republican caucus. On Tuesday, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) turned up the heat, warning of primary challenges for Republican incumbents who make deals with Democrats to block a Republican majority-elected Speaker. If Cook wins, it will be the first time in more than a decade that a candidate from the right wing of the Texas GOP claimed the Speakership a political earthquake that belies a slower, decades-long process of intrapartisan grinding below the surface. The current standoff is the culmination of dozens of fights and significant ideological tension over the last two decades, Brandon Rottinghaus, a political science professor at the University of Houston, told The Hill. This is the final fight. For both sides, the stakes are high and have driven strange alliances. Burrows, a conservative Republican who helped author bills dramatically restricting the authority of cities, has enlisted Democrats in a rebellion against the far-right faction that now controls the state GOP a move that risks political suicide if he loses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the other side is David Cook, a Dallas-Fort Worth-area Republican backed by the partys hard right even though, as mayor of Mansfield, he voted in favor of tax increases and the citys fracking ban before recasting himself in the Legislature as a champion of the grassroots right. Since Cook won the partys nomination vote in part because Burrows supporters walked out his supporters in the Republican Party of Texas have launched a frontal attack on members supporting Burrows, whom they are threatening with censure, primary challenges and ultimate exile from the state party. Thats a tough pill to swallow for a lot of GOP members, many of whom are reeling from watching Gov. Greg Abbott (R) bump off longtime allies who differed with him on school vouchers. Abbott has also hinted at support for Cook, urging we need a Texas House Speaker chosen by a majority of Republicans in accordance with the Republican Caucus Rules. And in seeking to openly exclude Democrats not just from leadership but from getting their bills heard at all, the Cook faction has effectively created a countering coalition of mainline Republicans and Democrats an awkward alliance Burrows has said gives him enough votes to win. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now some are warning that, whoever wins, the result could be a chamber so contaminated by infighting it cant get anything done, just as its called on to face some of Texass biggest crises, such as looming water shortages and the state of the electric grid. Houston-area state Rep. Gary Gates (R) warned in a letter to Cooks public supporters last week that their candidate has a very narrow path to victory. He also raised the alarm that the tensions could set up a poisonous atmosphere heading into the next legislative session. In a return letter, Cook accused him of fostering division and uncertainty to manufacture a need for [a new] candidate. Burrows supporters claim they have been receiving threatening text messages from Abraham George, the newly elected firebrand chair of the Texas Republican Party. The party organization voted unanimously for Cook after Burrows supporters walked out, according to a text exchange acquired by KETK. My desire is for Republicans to unite in accordance with the caucus bylaws and GOP platform, George wrote to East Texas Republican Rep. Cody Harris. Those documents, taken together, threaten members such as Harris with being barred from Republican primaries if they vote against Cook, or for the use of secret ballots in the Speakers race. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement George urged Harris to call him about his vote before the Republican Party of Texas sends any direct mail into your district, which Harris read as a clear threat to stir up opposition among his constituents. In response, Harris accused George of being more interested in purging the party than fighting Democrats in the general. I had a Democratic challenger in the fall, but now is when I hear from you? he texted back. I will continue to do what I believe is right. Good to know, George wrote back. See you on the other side :) George is hitting the road next week alongside Paxton, crisscrossing the state to turn the screws on Republican incumbents who have yet to back the Speaker nominee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move from Paxton who backed challengers and infused money into races this year to oust several lawmakers that voted for his impeachment adds to a pressurized environment in Texas politics where, as Rottinghaus said, everyones looking over their shoulder. Gates, the Houston-area representative, told The Hill that this bad blood and reliance on terroristic threats represent a significant liability for the Cook factions ability to win or govern if it is victorious. Many Cook supporters he has spoken with, Gates said, are with him just because theyre just worried about their primary opponent and young. And when you build a coalition through fear and threats, thats not a very strong coalition. The partys key problem comes down to math: The winning Speaker candidate needs 76 of the chambers 150 votes to win when the Texas House votes on a new leader in mid-January. Republicans hold 88 seats in the lower chamber. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cook has listed 56 public supporters so far. Burrows released 76 names last month, though The Texas Tribune reported that at least three said they shouldnt have been included. But Gates warned that Cooks support may be less sturdy than it appears as well that as members realize that he cant get to 76 without Democrats, and that Democrats dont trust him, they could begin to drift away. Cook doesnt have the votes to be Speaker without Republicans, and Burrows doesnt have the votes without the Democrats, Rottinghaus said. That puts them both in an awkward situation, having to fight to the very last minute. Theres another option, which members such as Gates are pushing for: another candidate steps forward who is acceptable to the state GOP but free of the resentment that now swirls around Cook, though other experts say that gets less likely as the vote approaches. Perhaps the biggest question, strategists said, is what Democrats do and what deals Burrows might broker with them as he tries to raise his numbers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What really matters about that, more than anything, is: Well, what does he have to give them in order to get [the] number of votes? Austin-based Republican strategist Matt Mackowiak, chair of the Travis County GOP, said. Matt Angle, founder and director of the Lone Star Project, a Democratic PAC, said Republicans next moves can help define the state House as a force separate from the lieutenant governor and the governor. Democrats are already thinking about what their price should be. In a letter this week, former Democratic caucus Chair Trey Martinez Fischer urged the party which Republican divisions leave as potentially the Houses biggest voting bloc to stay united and not back either candidate without a significant concession. The party, he wrote, has an unprecedented opportunity to change the fortunes of millions of Texans. Those of us who remain uncommitted will determine who leads the Texas House of Representatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Friday, Cook responded with an appeal to Democrats who have thus far rebuffed him, arguing that the traditional script in which a majority of Democrats partner with a minority of Republicans to secure the Speakership had served both parties badly. The jostling between Lone Star State lawmakers has also drawn national attention. Donald Trump Jr. last month waded in to back Cook, blasting so-called Republicans cutting a deal with liberal Democrats to elect a speaker instead of uniting behind the Republican nominee. It comes against the backdrop of the election for the Speakership in the U.S. House, as Trump-backed Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) battled to hold on to his top slot with a razor-thin Republican majority. He clinched the role with a one-vote margin of error. Both fights signal enduring friction among Republicans across the country even as the party celebrates a victorious election night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No matter who wins, Mackowiak said, the losing side of the leadership fight is going to head into the next 140-day legislative session with a lot of anger and a lot of frustration. The hope is that after the Speaker vote, everybody gets on the same page, and we start pulling in the same direction, passing the legislative priorities and doing the big things that we know we need to do. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A Texas grandmother is accused of having an unnecessary gastric feeding tube placed into her granddaughter. Lisa Campbell-Goins is charged with unlawful restraint, exploitation of a child and injuring a child, according to Tarrant County, Texas, jail records. She was arrested on Dec. 31. The countys sheriffs office described the investigation as a Munchausen by proxy case, a form of medical child abuse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sheriffs office says they are seeking help in obtaining further information on Campbell-Goins. The 56-year-old grandmother is further accused of having solicited monetary donations, including through a GoFundMe in her name. 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. It is not immediately clear if she has entered a plea or retained an attorney. Police did not release any further information on the specifics of the alleged abuse. 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. Read the original article on People AUSTIN (KXAN) Theres a new infectious worm that Texas officials are warning about. The New World Screwworm was recently detected in Mexico, and the Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife is asking people in South Texas to watch out for animals affected by the screwworms. The parasitic screwworm was eradicated from the United States in 1966, but it is widespread in some Caribbean and South American countries. New World Screwworm photo (Courtesy Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) The New World Screwworm is a larva or maggot of the New World Screwworm fly, which lays eggs in a wound or live tissue like the nostrils, eyes or mouth, according to the Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife. The eggs hatch into painful larvae, and then maggots screw into flesh with sharp mouth hooks leading to a parasitic infection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TPWD officials said female NWS flies are drawn to the odor of a wound on a live, warm-blooded animal. Female flies can lay up to 300 eggs at once. The screwworms most commonly affect livestock, but they can also infest birds, pets and humans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Screwworms can cause serious damage to the animal or person they infect and can cause bacterial superinfection. The CDC said screwworms are most common in the tropics and subtropics, but recent cases have appeared in Central America for the first time in years. Mexican authorities told the United States Department of Agriculture in November of a positive detection of New World Screwworm in a cow, according to the Texas Animal Health Commission. PREVIOUS: Your worst nightmares: Fireworms wash up on 2 Texas shores Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TPWD said signs of screwworm infection include: Irritated or depressed behavior Loss of appetite Head shaking Smell of decaying flesh Presence of fly larvae in wounds Isolation from other animals or people Texas officials ask people to report potential cases to a local wildlife biologist. People can also report livestock cases to the Texas Animal Health Commission or the U.S. Department of Agriculture. TPWD officials said screwworm infection can be prevented by cleaning and covering wounds and applying insect repellant, especially if traveling to areas with New World Screwworm. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The New Year is starting with a fresh warning for those who work with animals in Texas. The state's Parks and Wildlife Department is asking hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts to watch out for animals that may be impacted by dangerous "maneater" parasites from flies that lay eggs in open wounds, nostrils, eyes and mouths. The advisory, posted by the department on Dec. 30, was issued for outdoor enthusiasts in South Texas after the New World Screwworm was recently found in a cow in the southern Mexico state of Chiapas. According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the New World Screwworm has been making its way further north through the Americas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As a protective measure, animal health officials ask those along the southern Texas border to monitor wildlife, livestock and pets for clinical signs of NWS and immediately report potential cases," the department said. Texas officials are warning people to look out for signs of the New World Screwworm, known as a What is the New World Screwworm? According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the New World Screwworm "is a devastating pest." "When NWS fly larvae (maggots) burrow into the flesh of a living animal, they cause serious, often deadly damage to the animal," the USDA says. "NWS can infest livestock, pets, wildlife, occasionally birds, and in rare cases, people." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Texas parks department says the maggots will lay eggs in "open wounds or orifices of live tissue such as nostrils, eyes or mouth." Such an infestation is known as New World screwworm myiasis. "These eggs hatch into dangerous parasitic larvae, and the maggots burrow or screw into flesh with sharp mouth hooks. Wounds can become larger, and an infestation can often cause serious, deadly damage or death to the infected animal." The scientific name for the parasite, Cochliomyia hominivorax, is roughly translated to "maneater," according to the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. "It is an appropriate name," the agency added, saying that the screwworm was once prevalent in the U.S., with 230,000 cases reported just in 1935. But then scientists developed a way to release sterilized male blow flies, and since female blow flies only mate once, the agency says it "effectively removed that female and her potential offspring from the population." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It's believed that the elimination of the New World Screwworm has saved U.S. agriculture workers nearly $900 million in lost livestock annually, the agency said. Where are New World Screwworms found? New World Screwworms are endemic in Cuba, Haiti, the Dominican Republic and countries in South America. The USDA says that cases of the parasite, however, are also spreading north to Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala and Mexico. "Although USDA eradicated NWS from the United States in 1966 using sterile insect technique, there is a constant risk of re-introduction into the United States," the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service says. "To prevent the northward movement of this pest from South America to NWS-free areas in Central and North America, APHIS collaborates with Panama to maintain a barrier zone in eastern Panama." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What to know about New World Screwworm Myiasis The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department says that female New World Screwworm flies are "drawn to the odor of a wound or natural opening on a live, warm-blooded animal." There, just one fly can lay up to 300 eggs at a time, and she may lay up to 3,000 eggs during her lifetime. Cochliomyia hominivorax, the New World screw-worm fly, or screw-worm for short, is a species of parasitic fly that is well known for the way in which its larvae (maggots) eat the living tissue. / Credit: / Getty Images After eggs hatch, they become larvae or maggots that burrow into an opening to feed. Once they feed, they drop to the ground, burrow into the soil and emerge as adult flies. The adult flies can travel long distances, the department says, "and the movement of infested livestock or wildlife can increase the rate of spread." Signs of NWS Myiasis include irritated or depressed behavior, loss of appetite, head shaking, the smell of decaying flesh, the presence of maggots in wounds and isolation from other animals or people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To prevent an infestation, Texas officials say to clean and cover all wounds when spending time outdoors, especially in NWS-affected areas, and to apply insect repellant to outdoor clothing. How Oakland's Creative Growth enabled generations of artists Justin Trudeau announces he'll resign as prime minister of Canada Rise and shine with sunrise photographer Bugsy Sailor (Reuters) -More than 51,000 households were left without gas and 1,500 apartment buildings had no winter heat in Moldova's Moscow-backed separatist enclave, authorities said on Monday, as Moldova and Russia traded blame for an escalating energy crisis. Transdniestria, a mainly Russian-speaking breakaway region along the Ukrainian border, had received Russian gas via Ukraine for decades, using it to generate electricity also sold to the rest of Moldova, providing 80% of the country's power. But that gas was cut off along with flows to Central and Eastern Europe that stopped on New Year's Day, after Kyiv refused to extend a transit deal that had persisted through nearly three years of all-out war between Russia and Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Moldovan government blames the energy crisis on Russian gas export giant Gazprom, which it said refused to supply contracted gas to Transdniestria via an alternative and tested Transbalkan route. Gazprom said it would suspend exports to Moldova on Jan. 1 because of unpaid Moldovan debts that Moscow says total $709 million. Moldova disputes that debt and says its position is backed up by an international audit. The Transdniestrian separatist authorities said on Telegram that a total of 122 settlements had lost gas supplies as of Monday morning, and only small amounts were being supplied to some apartments for cooking. Authorities ordered schools not to reopen after the winter holidays, with at least 131 schools and 147 kindergartens left without heat. "There is not a single person in Transdniestria who is guilty of this situation - it's all an external factor," the president in the region's administration, Vadim Krasnoselsky, said on a televised statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gas piped via Ukraine has long been the main way Russia supported the separatist region, which broke free of control of Moldova's central government, fought a brief war against government forces in 1992 and still hosts 1,500 Russian soldiers. Russia's foreign ministry said in a statement it was following the deteriorating situation with alarm, blaming the gas cutoff on Ukraine and accusing Moldova of deliberately ignoring the problem. MOLDOVA SAYS RUSSIA STIRRING INSTABILITY Moldova said it had summoned a Russian diplomat and accused Moscow of falsely blaming it for the crisis, which it said Moscow had artificially stoked to undermine Moldova's government before parliamentary elections this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moldova, which has a pro-European government that seeks membership in the European Union and has been at odds with Moscow for several years, has alternated between pro-Western and pro-Russian governments since it gained independence during the 1991 break-up of the Soviet Union. "The meaning of all of this is for Russia to create instability in the region but also very importantly to influence the results of the parliamentary elections in Moldova... They want to achieve a pro-Russian government...," Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean said during an online briefing. Disruptions of water supply in Transdniestria had begun on Monday, he added. Since Russian gas was halted with the new year, Moldova has met its power needs by importing about 60% of its energy requirement from neighbouring Romania. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The government says it has offered to assist the separatists, but that the offer was rejected. Krasnoselsky has said Moldova's goal is the "strangulation" of the enclave and has urged residents to use firewood. Recean said Moldova's objective was to "reintegrate the country and this should start from the fact that Russia has to withdraw its troops, so that we can properly administer it. We are here to offer a peaceful solution to this conflict." Transdniestrian separatist authorities said late on Monday that their daily regime of rolling power cuts would be doubled to two four-hour stints on Tuesday. (Reporting by Pavel Polityuk and Tom Balmforth; editing by Peter Graff, Mark Heinrich and Lincoln Feast.) Three people have been arrested in connection with the theft of a U.S. Postal Service master key, the Billerica Police Department said Monday. Brayden Moran, 18, of Lowell and two other underage boys are accused of using a stolen postal service arrow key to steal checks and other items from inside mailboxes. Around Sunday night, Billerica police were monitoring a mailbox on Boston Road and noticed a white Lexus enter the parking lot and turn off all its lights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two individuals exited the Lexus wearing hooded sweatshirts and full ski masks, according to Billerica police. When the individuals walked up to several mailboxes, detectives approached, and the two ran away. Both individuals were taken into custody a short distance away and identified as 16-year-old and 17-year-old teen boys from Lowell. Moran was identified as the driver of the Lexus by Billerica police. Detectives found a postal service arrow key and several stolen checks among the evidence at the scene. All three were taken into custody. = An arrow key is a universal key assigned to postal carriers, which allows them to access collection boxes, outdoor parcel lockers, cluster box units, and apartment panels, according to Billerica police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want to thank the U.S. Postal Inspection Service for their cooperation and support of our investigations. Check washing cases have had a devastating impact recently on numerous residents and businesses throughout Billerica, with the total losses reaching into the hundreds of thousands of dollars, said Billerica Police Chief Roy Frost. We hope these arrests will impact the future and help prevent more of these types of crimes in Billerica. An investigation into this incident remains ongoing. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW When the Taliban fell from power in Afghanistan in 2001, women were once again allowed to go to school after being banned since 1996. I, along with World Bank education expert Raja Bentaouet Kattan and American University economist Rafiuddin Najam, analyzed the economic benefit of this societal change, using data from the Labor Force and Household Surveys conducted in Afghanistan in 2007, 2014 and 2020. We found it was enormous. In the wake of the Talibans fall, educational opportunities expanded at all levels. The infant mortality rate declined by half, and the gross national income per capita nearly tripled (in real terms in purchasing power, from US$810 in 2001 to $2,590 in 2020. A big part of the countrys economic progress in this period can be attributed to women. While the overall average return on investment in education remains low in Afghanistan, it is high for women. For example, for every additional year of schooling a woman received, her earnings increased 13%. This is higher than the global average of 9% for return on investment in education. Why it matters Twenty years after the first ban on womens education ended, the Taliban resumed power in 2021 and has once again banned girls and women from attending school after the sixth grade. The economic cost could potentially reach over a billion dollars and this doesnt include the wider social costs associated with lower levels of education for women. For context, Afghanistans entire gross domestic product was just $17 billion in 2023. Our study demonstrates how catastrophic the newest education ban could be, not just for women, but for the whole country. How we did our work Research on the economic return to schooling, especially for women, is limited in Afghanistan. But such evidence is critical for understanding the economic losses a country faces when women are denied access to education and work opportunities. Our study attempted to fill this gap by quantifying how earnings changed in response to an additional year of schooling. We looked at what happened between 2004, when the government expanded compulsory education for both men and women from sixth grade to ninth grade, and 2020. Our findings suggest that the cost of excluding women from education and work is significantly higher than previously estimated. According to our research, Afghanistan risks losing over $1.4 billion annually. This equates to a 2% decrease in national income. Whats next A widely held belief among researchers is that investing in womens education impacts more than each individual woman. It offers economic and social benefits that can last for generations. This includes higher rates of school attendance and improved health for her kids. Further research could explore the social benefits of womens education in Afghanistan between 2001 and 2021, in addition to the economic benefits. Future studies could investigate the public returns to schooling by assessing whether investment in womens education breaks intergenerational cycles of poverty, improves public health and reduces inequality, creating a multiplier effect for entire communities. Every additional day that the ban on womens education persists, generations fall further behind, losses compound and the dreams of millions of children and businesswomen become further out of reach. Jan. 5AUBURN Two men from Georgia and a woman from Westbrook were arrested Friday during a traffic stop prompted by an ongoing drug trafficking investigation, according to an Auburn Police Department post on social media. The Auburn Police Department's Proactive Community Enforcement unit conducted a traffic stop Friday leading to the arrests of Aliyah Jeanpaul, 19, of Westbrook; Wakarii Weeks, 22, of Georgia; and Michael Cressey, 22, of Georgia, according to a Facebook post. A 17-year-old Westbrook female who was in the car at the time of the stop was released into the care of her parents, according to the post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weeks and Cressey were arrested and charged with being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm, according to the post. Both have felony convictions in Georgia for firearm possession. Weeks also has a prior felony drug conviction there according to the Auburn Police Department Facebook post. Auburn police also charged Cressey with two misdemeanor counts of possession of scheduled drugs. After the search of a Dunn Street home, the two men were each charged with aggravated trafficking of scheduled drugs and two counts of unlawful possession of scheduled drugs. Jeanpaul, who is out on bail on separate charges, was arrested and charged with violating conditions of release for possession of a firearm, according to police. All three were taken to the Androscoggin County Jail in Auburn. Jeanpaul's bail was set initially at $250. Weeks' and Cressey's bail was set at $25,000 each. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the traffic stop, police seized two firearms, about $3,400 in suspected drug proceeds and an undisclosed amount of oxycodone pills, according to the social media post. Police seized around 112 grams of crystal methamphetamine, four grams of crack cocaine, digital scales, 75 grams of an unknown substance and a gun during the search of the Dunn Street home. Copy the Story Link 3 injured in shooting, stabbing incident Saturday in Auburn Oxford County arrest log: Jan. 6, 2025 At least three Israelis have been killed and eight other people injured in an attack in the northern West Bank, Israeli rescue workers said on Monday. Two women and one man died while three people were injured, according to the ZAKA non-governmental rescue and recovery group. A suspected Palestinian attacker had fired at a bus from a vehicle in al-Funduq, west of the city of Nablus, and was said to be on the run along with another individual, media reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We will find the abhorrent murderers and settle accounts with them and with all those who aided them," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement. "No one will get away." The already tense situation in the West Bank severely worsened after the Hamas-led massacre of around 1,200 people in Israel on October 7, 2023, triggering the Gaza war. Some 800 West Bank Palestinians have since been killed in Israeli military operations, armed clashes and attacks by extremists, according to the Ministry of Health in Ramallah. Meanwhile, a rocket fired from Gaza hit a house in the Israeli border town of Sderot on Monday, while another projectile was intercepted by air-defence systems and a third landed in an uninhabited area, the Israeli military said. There were no immediate reports of injuries. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) Three suspects were arrested after Rochester police say they broke into a liquor store on Bay Street Sunday night. Around 5 p.m., officers arrived at the 200 block of Bay St. where the store is located. They said they found a broken window and a suspect standing nearby. That suspect was arrested. The officers went inside the store to investigate and found two other suspects, one of whom was hidden in a crawlspace. They were also arrested. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Warren Valentin, age 58, Adam Howard, age 39, and Mandela Burrwell, age 34, were all arrested and charged with Burglary (3rd) and Petit Larceny. Valentin was also additionally charged with Resisting Arrest. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. There are two weeks until Inauguration Day, when President-elect Donald Trump will take office. If you want to make the 10-to-15-hour drive from Florida to Washington, D.C., or fly to attend the inauguration, tickets are free. But you cant just sign up to go, a limited number are available and you have to request them from your local congressional representatives. Heres what to know about Inauguration Day and how to find which senator or member of the house you should request tickets to the inauguration ceremony. When is Inauguration Day? Inauguration Day, which is on Jan. 20 every four years, falls on a Monday this year. Two weeks from now, on Monday, Jan. 20, Donald Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance will be sworn into office. How do you get tickets to the Presidential Inauguration? According to USA.gov, tickets to inaugurations are limited and only available upon request. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tickets are free and allow you to watch in person on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol as the president and vice president are sworn in on Jan. 20, 2025, USA.gov says. Tickets will be available from your members of Congress in the weeks leading up to the inauguration. Some members may begin accepting requests for tickets before then. You can find and contact your senators and your member of the House of Representatives using USA.govs search tool. 'Nobody wants to see this:' Trump posts about flags being at half-staff during his inauguration Inauguration events are planned by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies and include the swearing-in, inaugural address and pass in review. Other events surrounding the inauguration include an Inaugural Parade and Inaugural Balls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Contributing: Victoria E. Freile, USA TODAY Network This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Inauguration Day tickets are limited, but free. How to get them The U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments this week in a case challenging a law that seeks to ban the popular app TikTok in the United States if it is not sold by its owner, Byte Dance, which is based in China. The law, which was signed by President Biden in April 2024 and upheld by a Washington, D.C., federal court in December, is set to go into effect on Jan. 19. TikTok has argued that the law is a violation of First Amendment rights. The federal government has claimed in its responses that the fact that ByteDance, TikToks parent company, is owned by China is a potential threat to national security. However, ByteDance has said since April that it has no plans to sell TikTok to an American company, as required by the law. Donald Trump, who will be inaugurated for his second term in the White House one day after the ban goes into effect, has taken varying positions on TikTok. When he was president in August 2020, he threatened to ban the app if ByteDance didnt sell it, but multiple federal judges blocked his attempts at the time. However, while running for reelection in 2024, he launched his own TikTok account and told followers he would save TikTok in America if he won the election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As recently as Jan. 3, Trump asked, Why would I want to get rid of TikTok? However, he may not ultimately have a say in the matter, especially if the Supreme Court chooses not to block the ban from taking effect. Ahead of the oral arguments scheduled for Friday, heres what you need to know about what could happen next for TikTok. Whats happening at the Supreme Court on Jan. 10? In December, the Supreme Court declined to grant a request by TikTok and ByteDance for an emergency injunction to block the ban, choosing instead to first hear oral arguments. On Thursday, lawyers for both sides will have the opportunity to make their case to the justices for and against banning TikTok. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In their filing to the Supreme Court, TikTok and ByteDance argued, "If Americans, duly informed of the alleged risks of 'covert' content manipulation, choose to continue viewing content on TikTok with their eyes wide open, the First Amendment entrusts them with making that choice, free from the government's censorship." What action has Trump taken so far? On Dec. 27, Trump filed a legal brief asking the Supreme Court to delay their decision on the TikTok ban until after he is officially in office on Jan. 20. The filing argues that the Supreme Court should allow Trump and his incoming administration to look into the political questions involved in the case, especially whether the ban is a violation of Americans First Amendment rights. The filing also argues that Trump could find an alternative solution to the national security concerns associated with ByteDance. As of reporting, the Supreme Court has not publicly responded to Trumps filing. However, the Department of Justice has publicly asked the justices to reject it, saying the filing took no position on the First Amendment debate, which is the foundation of TikTok and ByteDances argument. Once president, could Trump save TikTok? If the Supreme Court allows the ban to take effect on Jan. 19, is there anything Trump can do to reverse that decision once he is inaugurated on Jan. 20? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law does include a provision that allows the president to pause the TikTok ban for 90 days if ByteDance proves it is in the process of selling the app, Forbes reported. Trump could try to pause the ban himself for the first 90 days of his administration, but without evidence that ByteDance is actively working to divest from TikTok, his decision could be challenged in court. Another option would be for Trump to ask his Justice Department and attorney general not to enforce the ban, Alan Z. Rozenshtein, an associate law professor at the University of Minnesota Law School wrote at Lawfare Media. However, in that case, most companies and individual users would probably be discouraged from using the app, since doing so would still technically be considered to be breaking the law. Lets say the ban officially goes into effect on Jan. 19. What's going to happen to the TikTok app? If you do not have TikTok on your phone by Jan. 19, you will not be able to download it once the ban takes effect. On Dec. 13, the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the U.S. and the Chinese Community Party wrote letters to Apple and Google which own the two main mobile app stores reiterating that they must remove TikTok from their stores when the ban takes effect. If you are one of the 170 million current U.S.-based TikTok users, the Department of Justice has stated that the ban will not directly prohibit the continued use of TikTok and wont immediately eliminate the app from individuals phones. Instead, over time, without updates or technical help from TikTok, the app will slowly become unworkable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement India had about 200 million TikTok users before it banned the platform and dozens of other Chinese-owned apps four years ago, following a military clash along the India-China border. In response to the ban, Indias former TikTok users instead migrated to platforms like Googles YouTube Shorts and Instagrams Reels. Will ByteDance sell TikTok? The only way to avoid a full ban on TikTok in the U.S. is if ByteDance either sells the app or at least proves its trying to divest from the app. Multiple American companies and entrepreneurs have offered to buy TikTok from ByteDance, including, most prominently, former Los Angeles Dodgers owner and Project Liberty founder Frank McCourt. Companies like Oracle, Walmart and Microsoft expressed interest in buying TikTok back in 2020. However, ByteDance has made it clear since April that it has no intention of selling TikTok, despite the U.S. ban. (Bloomberg) -- TikTok creators are posting videos promoting ways to get around a looming shutdown of the app in the US, which could spell trouble for Apple Inc., Alphabet Inc.s Google and other American tech companies required by law to enforce the ban or risk potentially billions in fines. Most Read from Bloomberg With less than two weeks to go before the ban kicks in, many influencers are recommending that users change their smartphone settings or get virtual private networks to make it appear as though theyre logging in from other countries, like Canada or the UK, where TikTok is permitted. Others are suggesting sideloading, the process of downloading TikTok from outside Apples App Store and Googles Play Store, or using TikTok on a web browser instead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though some creators acknowledge that these technical workarounds may not ultimately work, many appear confident even desperate as they try to avoid losing all of their followers and a platform that nearly one in five American teens say they use almost constantly. If it gets banned, they will take it off the Play Store, they will take it off the App Store and they may ban the servers, but hypothetically, those are easy to work around, a TikToker named Nicholas, who uses the handle @metaphysicalmister, told his 11,000 followers in a recent viral video watched almost 300,000 times. This app is not going anywhere. How-to Videos These how-to videos have together been viewed many millions of times, with some of the most popular ones having resurfaced from years prior, when TikTok faced a potential ban in 2020 under then-president Donald Trump or when TikTok CEO Shou Chew testified before Congress for the first time in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont think the US government understands that, like, if they ban TikTok, were still going to use it, said one young TikToker named Michaela, who uses the handle @cuddleswopuddles, who posted a video in 2023 that has now been watched 2 million times. Millennials, Gen Z and older Gen Alphas grew up spending time online and learning to code, Michaela added, making them tech savvy enough to keep the app alive. They will figure it out, she said. TikTok, Apple, Google and Oracle didnt respond to requests for comment. TikToks fate is in limbo after President Joe Biden signed a law to address national security concerns related to the popular video app. Critics fear that TikTok, which is owned by China-based parent ByteDance Ltd., could be used to gather sensitive data on Americans or sway public discourse in dangerous ways. The measure, overwhelmingly passed by Congress and enshrined as law in April, gave ByteDance nine months to strike a deal to sell TikTok which the tech giant has said it refuses to do or face a ban on Jan. 19. The surge of how-to-circumvent-a-ban videos reflects a broader panic by American users that a service now central to their livelihoods might actually be going away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement See More: As TikTok Runs Out of Options, This Billionaire Has a Plan to Save It Supreme Court TikTok, ByteDance and creators have been fighting the law in court, but after several unsuccessful legal maneuvers, the Supreme Court unexpectedly agreed to hear their challenge to the law on Jan. 10. Unless the high court overturns the law, or delays its implementation, Apple and Google will be on the hook to remove TikTok from their US app stores just over a week later. Web hosting companies such as Oracle Corp. and Amazon.com Inc. must similarly stop hosting TikTok traffic in the cloud or on their servers in the US, a scenario that would thrust several leading American tech companies into the middle of a geopolitical war. The law does not cite US firms by name, but says it would be unlawful for an entity, marketplace like a mobile app store, or internet hosting services to enable the distribution, maintenance, or updating of TikTok and other ByteDance products. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The tech giants have good reason to comply: Companies found violating the law could be subject to heavy fines determined by multiplying $5,000 by the number of users, according to the law. In a country where more than half the population is on TikTok the company claims 170 million monthly users penalties could quickly climb into the billions. The onus is also notably on those companies, not on an individual user, to follow the law. It is not illegal to access TikTok as a citizen, said Alan Rozenshtein, an associate professor at University of Minnesota Law School, but it will be illegal for businesses such as Apple and Google to offer the TikTok app in the US and for Oracle to provide cloud hosting services. Legal Concerns Still, TikTok could see users or mom-and-pop businesses stay away out of fear that they may end up in legal hot water. I will probably choose not to use a VPN mostly because I would not want to get in trouble, creator Carlos Torres, who sells a card game on TikTok that helps people learn Spanish, told Bloomberg. As a small business, we dont have the support legally, so its best for us to be compliant, regardless of how much potential business we lose. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dani Morin, a creator and child safety advocate, said she doesnt think switching the apps location will help creators. TikTok in Canada, for example, doesnt offer TikTok Shop or TikToks Creator Fund Program, she said, which are key to helping creators make money from the app. But in cases where TikTok users do attempt workarounds like using VPNs or accessing TikTok through its website, experts are divided on whether tech companies, including internet service providers, would be held liable. Its unclear if navigating to TikTok.com will even work, and if it does, whether that would be covered by the law. Anupam Chander, a professor of law and technology at Georgetown Law, said he doesnt believe the law covers internet service providers since those companies dont provide marketplace or internet hosting services. I think access to TikTok.com will continue, as long as they move the servers offshore, Chander said. See More: Trump Asks Supreme Court to Pause Law Threatening TikTok Ban Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But other experts believe the law does cover TikToks website and internet service providers. While broadband providers like Comcast Corp. or AT&T Inc. arent specifically targeted by the law, those providers could face liability if they become aware of people in the US accessing TikTok through the website, said Timothy Edgar, a lecturer at Harvard Law School. Edgar and Chander were among a group of law professors who filed amicus briefs in support of TikToks lawsuit. Trumps Plans General uncertainty around the incoming administration is also complicating matters. President-elect Trump has urged the Supreme Court justices to pause the law and pledged hed somehow thwart the ban once in office, making it unclear how strictly his team would even enforce it. Even if the Supreme Court upholds the law, TikTok is pulled down by Apple and Google and cloud infrastructure gets turned off come Jan. 19, the app wont instantly disappear off Americans phones. TikTokers, unable to install regular app updates and bug fixes, will instead see the platform and its features slowly start to deteriorate over time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That alone could be enough to push content creators to ditch any workarounds and migrate elsewhere, causing a downward spiral that might gradually kill the app, said Eric Goldman, a professor at Santa Clara University School of Law. The TikTok ban doesnt have to work perfectly for it to be fatal to the TikTok enterprise, he said. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. UPDATE @ 3:24 p.m. According to Bryan County Sheriffs Office on January 4, Donovan Tyler Ray was taken into custody by Bryan County Deputies and Oklahoma Highway Patrol Troopers yesterday. He is currently in the Bryan County Jail. ORIGINAL STORY OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) An anonymous tip led to the arrest of a fugitive on Attorney General Gentner Drummonds 10 Most Wanted list and three more fugitives have been added. Virginia Hubbard. Image courtesy Oklahoma Attorney General. According to the Attorney Generals Office, Detroit Police recently arrested 55-year-old Virginia Hubbard. She is accused of neglecting a woman she was hired to care for in Tulsa County. She left Oklahoma and was believed to be in Michigan, and a tip led investigators to her location. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LOCAL NEWS: Oklahoma Attorney General launches 10 Most Wanted campaign Thanks to the vigilance of an anonymous tipster and swift action by law enforcement, we have apprehended someone accused of a horrific crime, Drummond said. Working with our partners at the Tulsa County Sheriffs Office and the Detroit Police Department, weve taken another alleged predator off our streets and will ensure she faces the consequences of her actions. Following Hubbards arrest, three more people have been added to the Most Wanted list. Sau Tau Liu. Image courtesy Oklahoma Attorney General. Donovan Tyler Ray. Image courtesy Oklahoma Attorney General. Michael Christopher Marlow. Image courtesy Oklahoma Attorney General. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sau Tau Liu, 58, also known as James or Jim Liu. In November 2023, he was indicted for trafficking marijuana. There is a reward up to $2,000 for information leading to his arrest. Donovan Tyler Ray, 33, is wanted for rape and failure to register as a sex offender in Atoka County. He is considered a violent sex predator. There is a reward up to $3,000 for information leading to his arrest. Michael Christopher Marlow, 43, is accused of causing a deadly crash in 2022 in Cotton County. Police say he crossed the center median and hit another car head-on, causing it to roll and catch fire. He had methamphetamines in his blood system at the time. There is a reward up to $1,000 for information leading to his arrest. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. TOPEKA (KSNT) Topeka Public Schools (TPS) shared on Monday that school will remain closed due to road conditions. On Monday, TPS shared that the school district will be closed on Tuesday Jan. 7. Our transportation department and staff are still working to clear areas impacting schools, which will require more time to clear and address. In an effort to inform families as early as possible, due to the impact of the inclement weather resulting in snow, ice, and hazardous road conditions, Topeka Public Schools District will be closed on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. Topeka Public Schools wrote on social media. City of Topeka gives snow removal update 27 News reached out to USD 501 on Jan. 3 to see how the district is planning ahead of the winter storm. Students were scheduled to return to the districts classrooms on Monday, Jan. 6 for their first day of classes in 2025. Those classes were canceled on Sunday, Jan. 5. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can view our list of active closings by clicking here. For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Spanish tourist is dead following an incident involving an elephant at an animal sanctuary in Thailand. According to translated reports from Spanish newspapers El Mundo and El Pais, via the Daily Mail, 22-year-old student Blanca Ojanguren Garcia had been bathing the elephant at Koh Yao Elephant Care on Friday, Jan. 3, when the animal struck her with its trunk. Previous reports claimed that she had been gored, but were later clarified by the Spanish news agency EFE. Garcia was rushed to a local hospital but died from her injuries. A total of 18 people, including her boyfriend, were present during the attack but no one else was injured. Garcia had been studying law and international relations at the University of Navarra, but was living in Taiwan at the time of the incident while studying abroad for six months at Tamkang University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People reports that the owner of Koh Yao Elephant Care claimed that there are three elephants on site, including elephant involved in the incident; a 50-year-old female. The center receives about 10 to 30 visitors daily. The Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affair said that the consulate in Bangkok had been in contact with Garcia's family. In the meantime, her body was transferred to a hospital on the island of Phuket, off the west coast of mainland Thailand, as they prepared to return her remains to her home country. According to World Animal Protection's website, wild elephants in Thailand are outnumbered by those kept in captivity, with nearly 2,800 elephants living in tourism venues across the country. Unfortunately, those captive elephants are generally not treated well, as an assessment of 3,837 elephants in 357 venues across Asia found that 63 percent were "living in severely inadequate conditions." The organization also states that elephants will generally not move close enough to humans to be naturally touched. In the event a tourist is permitted to touch an elephant, it's likely that the animal has been subjected to cruel training methods. Authorities expect the new policy to bring an additional 20,000 people per day traveling to Macau from Zhuhai and Hengqin. More than 3,200 residents of Zhuhai and Hengqin crossed into Macau on the first day of a new visa policy that allows them to enter the city for stays of up to seven days, marking a significant increase in border traffic. Figures provided by the Public Security Police (PSP) showed that approximately 2,500 of the new visa holders were from Zhuhai, while roughly 700 were from the neighboring Hengqin area. The visa is valid for one year and does not require the typical two-month wait before returning to Macau. Residents reported in an interview with TDM that the new visa is very convenient. One resident noted, We can come whenever we want without a thought, unlike before, when we could visit, but each time we had to wait two months in between. Cheung Kin Chung, general manager of Macau CTS Hotel Management International Co. Ltd. and chairman of China Travel and Tourism Agency (Macau), mentioned in an interview with TDM that they have noticed many cross-border trips to Macau are for activities such as shopping and consumerism. The Public Security Police and tourism industry representatives stated they are making preparations to accommodate the expected surge of new visa holders entering Macau. In addition to the usual tourist traffic, the city is now bracing for a significant rise in travel from those taking advantage of the simplified border crossing. Victoria Chan As I noted in passing last week, the striking thing about the life of Shamsud-Din Jabbar is how much it reads like the boilerplate biography of any random Jan. 6 defendant or MAGA-inspired criminal. The 42-year-old who allegedly murdered 15 people at the New Year's festivities in New Orleans appeared, on paper, to be relatively successful in his career: 8 years in the Army, a degree from Georgia State, and a $125,000 a year job for an accounting firm. But his personal life was a mess. He was thrice divorced in 10 years, and at least two of the divorces were acrimonious and required repeat court interference. His divorce lawyer even fired him. His financial mismanagement meant his healthy salary didn't go far enough, and he had to be forced to make back payments on child support. Like so many men facing personal troubles, Jabbar didn't get the help he needed. Instead, he turned to radicalizing voices online, which led him to believe that he needed to double down on toxic masculinity. It's a story we hear over and over, from so-called incels who commit mass shootings to Donald Trump fans who attack government buildings to terrorists imbibing ISIS propaganda. Rather than taking responsibility for their personal failures and striving to do better, men of all stripes turn to the internet where they're greeted by a sea of influencers, ready to tell them that it's other people women, people of different races or religions, the "woke mob" that is to blame. In some cases, as happened here, they go far enough down the rabbit hole that they talk themselves into violence. Thankfully, no one but the bomber was badly hurt in the Las Vegas suicide bombing that happened the same night as the Bourbon St. attack, but the parallels between Jabbar and Matthew Livelsberger aren't hard to spot. Like Jabbar, Livelsberger was a troubled man who picked a highly symbolic location, blowing up a Cybertruck in front of a Trump hotel. Both men had checkered romantic histories, and Livelsberger appears to have told multiple people he feared he suffered from PTSD. Like Jabbar, Livelsberger seems to have acted on a belief that he was going out like a hero, standing up for his far-right ideology and using his death to call on fellow MAGA believers to commit acts of terrorism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Try peaceful means first, but be prepared to fight to get the Dems out of the fed government and military by any means necessary," he wrote in his final manifesto. He declared the U.S. is "terminally ill and headed toward collapse," complained that people don't believe "[m]asculinity is good and men must be leaders" and made tired Twitter jokes calling Vice President Kamala Harris a "DEI candidate" and President Joe Biden "Weekend at Bernie's." He concluded, "Rally around the Trump, Musk, Kennedy, and ride this wave to the highest hegemony for all Americans!" Want more Amanda Marcotte on politics? Subscribe to her newsletter Standing Room Only. Livelsberger defensively insisted the bombing "was not a terrorist attack." This sentiment is belied not just by the violence of the act itself and his calls for MAGA men to use violence because "a hard reset must occur for our country." BREAKING: Las Vegas Metro police release more letters from bomber Matthew Livelsberger where he tells Americans to rally around Donald Trump, Elon Musk and RFK Jr. https://t.co/RKxmEd5PFv pic.twitter.com/V7AN110STN David Charns (@davidcharns) January 3, 2025 Friday, the Washington Post published an in-depth report on the role self-radicalization plays in ISIS violence. In many cases, reporters Souad Mekhennet and Joby Warrick write, "the perpetrators appear to have been driven less by ideology or politics than by rage over personal failings." They largely follow the story of Beran Aliji, the 19-year-old Austrian whose plot to attack a Taylor Swift concert was thankfully thwarted by authorities. The contours of his story are familiar to anyone who knows examples like Elliot Rodger, the UCSB incel killer, or Jacob Chansley, the infamous "QAnon Shaman" at the Jan. 6 riot. Aliji was a lost soul with few friends and serious mental health issues. Instead of getting help for his issues, Aliji turned to online sources that promoted toxic masculinity. He embraced overt misogyny and developed an obsession with guns and knives, telling police he posed for photos with weapons because he "wanted to be cool and brag about it." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aliji's brand of toxic masculinity was radical Islamic propaganda, which eventually led him to ISIS, which he saw "as a means of gaining an identity and purpose." There are many flavors of this pitch aimed at lost men worldwide. In the U.S., groups like the Proud Boys offer a similar tactic: Join them, and you'll be transformed from a nobody to a warrior fighting for the supposedly noble MAGA cause. Online incel communities are less positive in their marketing but push a similar message, that the world is a fallen place and only this group of men see the truth of it. Christian nationalist churches, such as the one attended by Trump's Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegeseth, pump out huge amounts of online content valorizing male violence and female oppression. A lot of people fall into these radical communities after imbibing months or even years of "softer" versions of the same "feminism is bad, toxic masculinity is good" messaging from influencers like Jordan Peterson, Matt Walsh, or Ben Shapiro. Whether it's radical Islam or MAGA vitriol, the appeal is obvious. They allow the troubled man to blame others, especially women and "woke" culture, rather than look to themselves. They offer a false promise that their ideologies will transform followers from losers to heroes. What they actually sell them is more of the same poison that led to their problems in the first place: toxic masculinity. They're encouraged to be domineering toward women and bombastic in their rigid worldviews, both of which alienate them further from people in their lives. But they often respond by digging even deeper into the radicalizing materials, and all too often, they act out violently. In some cases, as with Aliji or the would-be Pizzagate shooter, they're stopped before anyone gets hurt. All too often, they're not. Right now, most media focus on men and online radicalization focuses on the "demand" side of the equation, looking at the psychological factors that drive men to seek out these influences. That's important, but sources I spoke with last year for an in-depth report on radicalization also felt attention must be paid to the "supply" side. American University professor Brian Hughes explained that pre-internet, it was relatively rare "to encounter extremist propaganda or an extremist recruiter." With the internet, however, "you can't avoid radicalizing material. Propaganda is everywhere." More will likely be learned about Jabbar, but what we already know suggests he's part of this larger trend. Bruce Riedel, a counterterrorism expert, told the Washington Post that Jabbar is "a classic case" of someone who "finds now a cause to justify his life and his rage" in the radical Islamic ideology he found online. After an initial investigation into whether Jabbar had accomplices, federal authorities have determined he acted alone and was "inspired" by ISIS propaganda. Similarly, while Livelsberger hinted at his intent to friends and an ex-girlfriend, he ultimately seemed self-directed. Like Jabbar, he appears to have been lost and felt that this final act of violence would give him meaning. His letter suggests he believes he'll be a hero to men who share his radical political views. Both men were caught up in the sick logic of toxic masculinity, where being "good" is about being dominant and hateful. It's a worldview that reimagines ugly behavior as noble, and it's not a surprise it so often ends in violence. CRAVEN COUNTY, N.C. (WNCT) On Sunday, a New Bern man was arrested after a Craven County Sheriff conducted a traffic stop. When he was pulled over, Alan William Bogli was traveling eastbound on US Hwy 70. K-9 Tia was used during the stop and discovered the scent of narcotics. After a search of the vehicle by deputies, 57.4 grams of methamphetamine and various items of drug paraphernalia were seized. Bogli was arrested and charged with two counts of trafficking methamphetamine, possession with intent to manufacture, sell and deliver a Schedule II Controlled Substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is held at the Craven County Detention Center with a $100,000 secured bond. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT. KHOU-11 Sign up for The Agenda Them's news and politics newsletter, delivered to your inbox every Thursday. A Black trans teenager who was stabbed after exiting a bus in Houston on December 22 and her attorney are lobbying to upgrade the charges against her accused perpetrator to a hate crime. According to local LGBTQ+ magazine Out Smart, 18-year-old Rue spoke out about the attack at a press conference outside the Harris County Criminal Courts Building on January 3. Rue told the press that as she got off her bus, she was followed by a man who asked to borrow her phone. When she asked for it back, the man, who was later identified as Joseph Fuerborn, allegedly stabbed her three times, puncturing one of her lungs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I thought I was going to become one of those, like, my worst fears to ever come true, Rue said during the press conference, per local news outlet KHOU. I thought my life was going to end before I ever got a chance to get started. Houston police tracked down and arrested Fuerborn, who was carrying a knife. Police also linked him to an armed robbery that they said had taken place earlier. At the time of writing, Fuerborn is in police custody and has been charged with aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon. However, Rues attorney, Kevin Hale, and local LGBTQ+ groups are calling for Fuerborn to be charged with a hate crime. [Rue] didnt do anything in any way to have this attacker violate her person and stab her three times, Hale said during the press conference. Black trans women face disproportionately high levels of transphobic violence. A November Human Rights Campaign report found that, of the 36 trans and gender-expansive people whose murders the HRC has recorded since 2023s Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20, 50% of those victims were Black trans women. According to the Transgender Law Center, 57% of the reported victims of fatal anti-trans violence in Texas between the years of 2017 and 2020 were Black. In This Texas City, Trans People Can Be Sued for $10,000 for Using the Bathroom Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city council of Odessa, Texas just expanded their already draconian law targeting trans people. Im very, very thankful that Rue is still here with us today, Austin Davis-Ruiz, president of the Houston LGBTQ Political Caucus, said in a statement. Unfortunately, violence like this is something that we see all too commonly. In addition to the aforementioned press conference, Rue, her attorney, and her family members organized a rally dubbed Rues Rally at Houstons Emancipation Park on Sunday, January 4, to raise awareness about anti-trans violence. I just hope to be more safe just for people to know that we wont harm anyone, Rue told KHOU during the event. And for people not to harm us. Get the best of whats queer. Sign up for Thems weekly newsletter here. Originally Appeared on them. The electricity supply system in the Russian-occupied Moldovan region of Transnistria is at risk of collapse after the halt of Russian gas flow, a high-ranking official of Moldovas Energy Ministry warned on Jan. 5. There is about a 30% energy deficit, or 65 megawatts (MW), as residents of Transnistria use electric devices to heat their homes, said Constantin Borosan, a state secretary at the ministry. Russia's state-controlled energy giant Gazprom halted gas deliveries to Moldova on Jan. 1, citing alleged unpaid debts by Moldovagaz, Moldova's state-owned gas company. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The halt of gas supplies resulted in a heating outage in Transnistria. While the rest of Moldova has switched to European energy supplies, the region, occupied by Russia since the early 1990s, is heavily dependent on Russian gas. Borosan said rolling blackouts began in the region, mainly during the peak consumption hours of morning and evening, to avoid overloading the energy grid. As Moldovas and Transnistrias energy grids are heavily interconnected, power should be saved in the government-controlled part of the country as well, the official added. Although a deal allowing Russian gas to transit through Ukraine expired on the same day that Russia halted gas supplies to Moldova, Gazprom insists the suspension is due to Moldova's outstanding debt, not transit issues. Moldovan officials dispute Gazprom's claims regarding outstanding payments, noting an international audit failed to verify the debts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some 1,500 high-rise buildings in Transnistria were without heating and hot water on Jan. 4, and nearly 72,000 homes remained without gas, the regions leader said, urging residents to heat with stoves and fire amid dropping temperatures. Read also: Transnistria faces industrial collapse after Russian gas suspension, senior official says Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. FARMERSBURG, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) Many counties across the state have upgraded their travel advisories to watch and warning statuses, but what does that mean? According to the Department of Homeland Security, travel status information is provided by each countys emergency management agency. As counties initiate official travel advisories and notify the state, this DHS: Travel Advisory Map automatically updates with that information. Knox Co. officials declare local disaster, issue travel warning Warning A warning is the highest level of a local travel advisory. A warning means that travel may be restricted to emergency management workers only. During a warning local travel advisory, individuals are directed to: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Refrain from all travel; Comply with necessary emergency measures; Cooperate with public officials and disaster services forces in executing emergency operations plans; and Obey and comply with the lawful directions of properly identified officers. Exceptions to the warning travel advisory are found in Indiana Code 10-14-3-29. Knox County, Indiana was upgraded to Warning or red status as of Monday morning and at the time this article was written. Watch A watch or orange travel advisory means that conditions are threatening to the safety of the public. During a watch local travel advisory, only essential travel, such as to and from work or in emergencies, is recommended. During a watch advisory, DHS suggests implementing emergency action plans by businesses, schools, government agencies, and other organizations. As of Monday morning, Clarke, Clay, Daviess, Greene, Martin, Owen, Parke, Putnam, Sullivan, Vigo, and Vermillion counties all were under the Watch Travel Advisory. Advisory Advisory is the lowest level of a local travel advisory. It means that routine travel or activities may be restricted in areas because of a hazardous situation. Individuals should use caution or avoid those areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Normal status appears in green on the travel advisory map. Counties that are not reporting are shaded gray. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WBOY) West Virginia State Treasurer Larry Pack has announced the annual SMART529 statewide essay contest with an inspiring prompt: When I Grow Up. According to a release sent out by Treasurer Packs Office, the contest will give students in kindergarten through fifth grade a chance to win cash prizes, both for their future education and for their schools. My hope is that this contest inspires our West Virginia children to begin thinking about potential career opportunities, Treasurer Pack said. My office wants to hear from students who are starting to explore how they can achieve their dreams by attending college or a trade school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To enter the contest, students will submit an essay explaining in 200 words or less what they want to be when they grow up, which will then be judged based on originality, creativity and the importance of post-secondary education. Bob Huggins Fish Fry returning Feb. 1 The essays will be judged among five regions: Region I Beckley/Bluefield area Region II Charleston/Huntington area Region III Clarksburg/Weston area Region IV Martinsburg area Region V Wheeling area Entries will also be divided into grade categories: K-1 2-3 4-5 This will make for a total of 15 winners. Each will receive $500 invested into SMART529 college savings accounts, and one will be randomly selected to receive a grand prize of $5,000 toward a SMART529 account during an awards ceremony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Teachers of the same grades are also able to participate in the competition, where one will be selected to win a $2,500 cash prize. Entry forms for students and teachers, along with more information about SMART529, can be found here. The deadline for the contest is Feb. 28, 2025. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Jan. 6 that he will step down as leader of the ruling Liberal Party but remain in office until the party selects a new leader. Under Trudeaus leadership, Canada has been a strong ally of Ukraine, providing 19.5 billion Canadian dollars ($13.5 billion) in assistance, including 4.5 billion Canadian dollars ($3.1 billion) in military aid. "This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if Im having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau has faced mounting pressure from his party, particularly after the abrupt resignation of Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland on Dec. 16. Public support for the prime minister has waned over the past year, and the opposition Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre, has consistently outperformed him in polls. The next federal election is scheduled for October 2025, but a snap election may occur as opposition parties have pledged to bring a no-confidence vote when parliament reconvenes on Jan. 27. Trudeau made history as Canada's youngest Prime Minister when he was elected in 2015. As a hereditary politician, he is the son of Pierre Trudeau, who held the office from 1968 to 1979 and again from 1980 to 1984. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Russia fueling Transnistria energy crisis for propaganda, destabilization, Moldova says Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Monday, 6 January, his resignation as the leader of the Liberal Party. Source: European Pravda Details: Speaking at a press conference in Ottawa, Trudeau highlighted his governments achievements, including support for Ukraine, but acknowledged divisions within his party over its future direction. Quote: "I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust nationwide competitive process." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More details: Trudeau will continue serving as head of the Canadian government until his successor is chosen. The prime minister also announced that upon his request, Governor General Mary Simon, the representative of the British monarch in Canada, has agreed to prorogue the Parliament until 24 March. The prorogation is needed to present a revised government agenda. It is possible that the Liberal Party will find a replacement for Trudeau, who would also lead the government. Meanwhile, the Canadian opposition is already calling for snap parliamentary elections to form a stable government capable of cooperating with US President-elect Donald Trumps administration over the next four years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: In December, Canadas Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Chrystia Freeland, who has Ukrainian heritage, unexpectedly resigned due to disagreements with Trudeau. Support UP or become our patron! The University of Macaus Faculty of Business Administration hosted the 2024 Macau International Conference on Business Intelligence and Analytics. The event brought together scholars to explore the latest developments, featuring keynote speeches and panel discussions on AI, big data, decision-making, and emerging technologies. UM Rector Yonghua Song emphasized the transformative role of business intelligence, highlighting the conferences importance for global academic exchange. The event included keynotes by Princetons Fan Jianqing on uncovering financial fraud and Micro Connects Gary Zhang on financing strategies. Related By Andrea Shalal WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on Monday denied a newspaper report that said his aides were exploring tariff plans that would only cover critical imports, deepening uncertainty among business leaders about future U.S. trade policies. Trump responded on his Truth Social platform after the Washington Post cited three sources familiar with the matter as saying that Trump aides were exploring a narrower approach to tariffs, focused on certain critical sectors. "The story in the Washington Post, quoting so-called anonymous sources, which don't exist, incorrectly states that my tariff policy will be pared back. That is wrong. The Washington Post knows it's wrong. It's just another example of Fake News," he wrote in a post on Truth Social. The Washington Post had reported that Trump aides were exploring tariff plans that would be applied to every country but only cover certain sectors deemed critical to national or economic security, in what would have represented a marked shift from promises Trump made during the 2024 presidential campaign. U.S. and European stocks rallied sharply on Monday after the newspaper report, and remained up despite Trump's denial. The U.S. dollar pared declines against a basket of other currencies following the Trump statement. Trump, a Republican who takes office on Jan. 20, had vowed to impose tariffs of 10% on global imports into the U.S. along with a 60% tariff on Chinese goods - duties that trade experts say would upend trade flows, raise costs and draw retaliation against U.S. exports. He later said he would impose a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican imports on his first day in office, which could lead to sharp increases in the cost of gasoline. The aides said the plans are in flux and have not been finalized, according to the newspaper. "It all seems uncertain and unsettled," said John Murphy, a senior vice president at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, a powerful Washington-based lobbying group. "We've been hearing a quiet denial of the idea that there would be lots of exclusions from some of these tariffs plans." While tariffs imposed during Trump's first term didn't send inflation soaring, they did result in a noticeable drop in foreign and domestic investment and business sentiment, he said. "The sooner we can have clarity and stability and avoid the hefty cost of these tariffs to the degree possible, the better." The Washington Post report said it was not clear which sectors the tariffs would target, with preliminary discussions largely focused on several key sectors, including the defense industrial supply chain, through tariffs on steel, iron, aluminum and copper; critical medical supplies such as pharmaceutical materials; and energy production, including batteries, rare earth minerals and solar panels." President-elect Donald Trump made an appearance Saturday with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who was visiting his Mar-a-Lago club. Meloni follows Argentina President Javier Milei, who became the first world leader to meet with Trump at Mar-a-Lago after his Election Day victory in November. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Prime Minister Viktor Orban of Hungry also traveled to Florida to meet with the president-elect. Trump appeared at a screening of a documentary detailing challenges some conservative lawyers report facing in the legal system. He entered the grand ballroom around 7 p.m. and then returned around two hours later after having dinner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump told the crowd of Meloni: This is very exciting. Im here with a fantastic woman, the prime minister of Italy. Shes really taken Europe by storm, and everyone else, and were just having dinner tonight, Trump said. The president-elect watched a screening of the documentary with Meloni and with his pick for the incoming administrations secretary of state, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, as well as Florida Rep. Mike Waltz, Trumps choice for national security adviser and his choice to head the Treasury Department, Scott Bessent. Melonis visit comes after Italian journalist Cecilia Sala was detained by Iranian police while reporting in Tehran late last month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Salas case has heightened tensions between Italy and Iran, which is demanding Italian authorities release an Iranian businessman who was arrested recently in Milan on a U.S. warrant in connection with a drone attack in Jordan last year that killed three American troops. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden is set to travel to Rome to meet with Meloni, as well as Pope Francis, beginning Thursday. The White House says the Meloni meeting will highlight the strength of the U.S.-Italy relationship and feature Biden thanking the prime minister for her strong leadership of the G7 over the past year. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Donald Trumps legal team has appealed Judge Juan Merchans two rulings that dismissed the president-elects attempts to toss his conviction in his hush money case. Trump is now seeking a stay of Fridays scheduled sentencing, according to multiple media reports. Mondays appeal comes on the same day that Congress is set to certify Trumps November election win, as well as the anniversary of the 2021 insurrection. Trumps lawyers previously argued the indictment should be dismissed on the grounds of presidential immunity since Trump will return to serve as leader of the United States later this month. Last week, Merchan rejected that bid and announced that sentencing for the case would take place this coming Friday, about a week and a half before Trump is sworn in for his second term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In court papers that appeared on Monday, Trumps lawyers argued their planned appeal to the Appellate Division should trigger an automatic stay in proceedings (either temporarily or permanently). The incoming presidents legal team went on to argue that if a stay doesnt happen automatically, then Merchan should grant a pause to prevent sentencing from happening on Friday, at minimum. Today, President Trumps legal team moved to stop the unlawful sentencing in the Manhattan D.A.s Witch Hunt, Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung said, according to the AP. The Supreme Courts historic decision on Immunity, the state constitution of New York, and other established legal precedent mandate that this meritless hoax be immediately dismissed. In May of 2024, Trump was convicted on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in an attempt to conceal hush money payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels. Trump has the option to attend his Friday sentencing in person or via video conference. Given the fact that Trump is set to become the 47th President of the U.S., Merchan has stated he will likely grant Trump an unconditional discharge, meaning the charges will be upheld but he will not have to pay a fine nor will he have to serve probation or jail time. During last weeks ruling, Merchan called the outcome the most viable solution to ensure finality and allow Defendant to pursue his appellate options. The post Trump Asks Court to Delay Friday Sentencing in Hush Money Case Ahead of Congress Certification appeared first on TheWrap. Incoming President Donald Trump threw his support on Sunday behind having one sweeping border, energy and tax bill. Members of Congress are getting to work on one powerful Bill that will bring our Country back, and make it greater than ever before. We must Secure our Border, Unleash American Energy, and Renew the Trump Tax Cuts, Trump wrote on Truth Social. Republicans must unite, and quickly deliver these Historic Victories for the American People. Get smart, tough, and send the Bill to my desk to sign as soon as possible, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps direct endorsement of the reconciliation strategy comes just a day after Speaker Mike Johnson told his members behind closed doors that the president-elect was backing a one-bill approach using reconciliation, instead of two bills. Ways and Means Committee Chair Jason Smith (R-Mo.) was among those pushing for one package, while the two-bill strategy was backed by Senate Majority Leader John Thune, some of Trumps Capitol Hill allies and incoming White House staffer Stephen Miller. Johnson, in an interview with Sunday Morning Futures With Maria Bartiromo, said he wants to adopt a budget resolution that will include instructions for the sweeping energy, border and tax package in February. He then wants to pass the bill itself in the House in early April, with the goal of getting it to Trumps desk by the end of the month. Even as Johnson laid out his ambitious timeline during the weekend, and passed along Trumps preferences, hes faced pushback. Some House Republicans worried that Johnsons remarks Saturday were him characterizing what Trump wanted, rather than Trump weighing in directly. But one person familiar with the reconciliation talks told POLITICO that Trump is pushing the one package approach and it "was the message from his team all weekend. The one-bill strategy is still sparking some skepticism hinting at the battle ahead as Republicans try to get the near unity needed to get a reconciliation bill to Trumps desk. Johnson acknowledged Sunday that the bill could slip into May. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump, on Truth Social, revived one topic that causes heartburn among a swath of congressional Republicans using tariffs to help pay for the tax package. Trumps talk of tariffs has sparked unease particularly in the Senate, where farm state Republicans worry the agriculture industry will be the target of foreign retaliation. Key Senate Republicans have also said they dont believe tariffs are a viable option as spending offsets. Meanwhile, incoming Senate Budget Committee Chair Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) also raised concerns about delaying the border piece of the package by insisting on passing everything at once. Under the two-bill strategy backed by Graham, Republicans were hoping to start by passing a border and energy bill next month. "I'm very worried. I'm very worried that if we don't put border first and get it done, it's going to be a nightmare for our national security, Graham told the host on Sunday Morning Futures With Maria Bartiromo. President-elect Donald Trumps aides have suggested that the MAGA chief will row back slightly on his campaign promise of sweeping tariffs on all imports entering the U.S., according to the Washington Post. Trump campaigned on aggressive tariffs despite many economists warning about subsequent price increases for American consumers. Now, sources familiar with the matter have told WaPo that they will only cover critical imports. Industries deemed vital to national and economic security will now be targeted instead of the original proposal of universal tariffs going ahead, the insiders said. Trump campaigned on aggressive tariffs. / Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images WaPo reported that the change in tone would jettison a key aspect of Trumps campaign pledge, but cited the insiders who said that nothing is set in stone yet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is likely, however, that industries that Trump wants to return to the U.S. will be the main focus of the import duties. Tariffs on steel, iron, aluminum and copper, were earmarked by aides, the sources said. So too were critical medical supplies like syringes, needles, vials and pharmaceutical materials; and energy production implements like batteries, rare earth minerals and even solar panels, they added. Trumps campaign promise would have seen the price of food imports and cheap consumer electronics skyrocket, but the latest reported tweaks mean producers in these fields may be able to breathe a sigh of relief. However, people familiar with the matter said slated tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China could be imposed along with the universal tariffs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sector-based universal tariff is a little bit easier for everybody to stomach out the gate. The thought is if youre going to do universal tariffs, why not at least start with these targeted measures? one of the people told WaPo. And it would still give CEOs a massive incentive to start making their products here. Bezos dined at Mar-a-Lago last month, and his company donated $1 million to Trumps inauguration. / The Washington Post / The Washington Post via Getty Im It comes after a host of billionaires enjoyed an audience with Trump at Mar-a-Lago in recent weeks. Among them was Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos, who reportedly jostled for the president-elects attention with his right hand man Elon Musk. Bezos has pledged to donate $1 million to the Trump inauguration through Amazon, while Musk, the SpaceX CEO and X owner, is believed to have poured at least $277 million into backing his main ally. Apples Tim Cook dined with Trump at the Florida resort a few weeks ago, and just last week announced that he too plans to donate $1 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the others to bend the knee was OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman, who pledged to personally donate $1 million to Trumps inaugural fund. President Trump will lead our country into the age of AI, and I am eager to support his efforts to ensure America stays ahead, Altman said in a statement. Mark Zuckerbergs Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, also plans to send $1 million towards the kitty. The inaugural committee is projected to raise more than $150 million, according to reports. There is an absolute deluge of interest, a Republican fundraiser told ABC News. Traditionally Musk-critical Mark Zuckerberg has pledged $1 million for his inauguration / Manuel Orbegozo/Reuters Even Bill Gates, who reportedly backed Kamala Harris to the tune of $50 million, is said to have courted Trump. Writing on Truth Social last month, Trump said the former CEO of Microsoftwhom Forbes says is the 16th richest in the worldpersonally asked for an audience with him. In the first term, everyone was fighting me, Trump said at Mar-a-Lago last month. This time, everyone wants to be my friend. Meanwhile, Trump addressed the Washington Post tariffs story on Truth Social, calling it fake news. He wrote on Monday morning: The story in the Washington Post, quoting so-called anonymous sources, which dont exist, incorrectly states that my tariff policy will be pared back. That is wrong. The Washington Post knows its wrong. Its just another example of Fake News. President-elect Trumps political comeback is set to be sealed Monday as Congress certifies his election victory, a full 180-degree turn from four years ago, when he sat stewing in the White House as his supporters violently stormed the Capitol. Trump has spent the past four years seeking to rewrite the events of Jan. 6, 2021, when rioters tried to halt the certification of his defeat to President Biden. On the campaign trail, he repeatedly referred to it as a day of love, and he has referred to those arrested for their actions that day as hostages and vowed to pardon them immediately upon taking office this month. Monday will create a sense of vindication for Trumps team as he prepares to return to office, and will deliver another blow to Trump critics who had hoped voters would see his inaction during the riot and his rhetoric in the years since as disqualifying. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spokespeople for Trump did not respond to questions about whether he plans to watch the proceedings unfold in real time Monday. He is expected to be at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. Incoming White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt in a statement accused the media of refusing to report the truth about what happened that day and decried the House panel that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol as one of the greatest political scams in history. The American people did not fall for the Lefts fear mongering over January 6th, Leavitt said in a statement. They re-elected President Trump by a resounding margin because they want him to unify our country through success, and thats exactly what he will do. The events of Jan. 6, 2021, have lingered on for years and were central to the 2024 campaign. Trump was nearly exiled from the GOP over his rhetoric that preceded the violence and his refusal to unequivocally condemn those who stormed the Capitol as it unfolded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He and his allies have railed against investigations into Jan. 6 and his efforts to remain in power, including a federal indictment in Washington, D.C., that was dropped after Novembers election. Trump on the campaign trail repeatedly sought to rewrite the history of the days violence. He bragged about the size of the Jan. 6 crowd, called it a day of love and said protesters that day had love in their heart. At multiple Trump rallies, a rendition of the national anthem sung by those imprisoned for their actions that day played over the speakers. And pardoning those charged in connection with Jan. 6 was a major campaign pledge. Biden, meanwhile, delivered remarks at the Capitol on the first anniversary of the Jan. 6 attack and spoke repeatedly about how he felt Trump posed a threat to democracy, making it a core argument of his reelection bid before stepping aside in late July. He has also made the events that day part of his final days in office, awarding the Presidential Citizens Medal to Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), the chair of the House Jan. 6 panel, and former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.), who also served on the committee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Biden will acknowledge the events of Jan. 6 in some form Monday, even as he is slated to travel to New Orleans following the deadly New Years Day attack there. Nothing has changed, and I think this is a president that has spoken multiple times in the last four years and beyond about democracy, the importance of democracy, protecting our democracy, and so I would expect that he will continue to be steadfast on that, Jean-Pierre said. Vice President Harris did not always emphasize the threat Trump posed to democracy on the same scale Biden did, though she still delivered her closing argument of the campaign from the Ellipse near the White House, the same place where Trump spoke to supporters the morning of Jan. 6, 2021. Still, her position as vice president will put her in the awkward position of having to certify the election win of a candidate who beat her in November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the past, members of both parties have used the certification process to challenge election results. Some House Democrats sought to challenge Trumps win in 2017 but failed to get any senators to back the cause. But in 2021, numerous Republicans, including senators, challenged the results during the certification process, which was halted by rioters who entered the Capitol. On Monday, however, there is not expected to be much pushback against certifying Trumps victory, in which he won both the Electoral College vote and the popular vote. House Democrats have indicated they will not challenge the results, with some wary of protests undercutting their warnings about threats to democracy. Still, Trump and other Republicans have signaled they will not simply turn the page from the efforts by Democrats to put a spotlight on Jan. 6. Trump railed against Biden for honoring Cheney and Thompson on Friday and called members of the House panel that investigated Jan. 6 thugs. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) posted on social media that House Republicans would fully fund investigations into the actions of the Jan. 6 committee in the new Congress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Monday has been designated as a national security special event, marking the first time that label has been applied to an election certification, law enforcement officials said at a public safety briefing Friday. The designation makes the Secret Service the lead agency for planning and implementing security efforts and frees up additional federal and local resources. The National Guard will have 500 soldiers on standby to potentially assist with securing the election certification. Tom Manger, chief of the U.S. Capitol Police, said at Fridays briefing that the agency is better staffed, better trained, better equipped than ever before to protect our Capitol and to protect our Congress. An inspector general report following the Jan. 6 attack four years ago made 103 recommendations about changes and improvements the Capitol Police should undertake. Manger said Monday the agency had completed each one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As our nation struggles to maintain a sense of safety in light of recent mass killings and acts of terrorism, the eyes of the world will be on the United States Capitol to see what happens here on Jan. 6, Manger said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. By Stine Jacobsen and Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen COPENHAGEN (Reuters) -Donald Trump's eldest son Donald Jr. arrived in Greenland's capital Nuuk on a private visit on Tuesday, a day after the U.S. president-elect reiterated his interest in taking control of the island, an autonomous territory of Denmark. The president-elect, who takes office on Jan. 20, has signalled he would pursue a foreign policy unbound by diplomatic niceties, threatening to take control of the Panama Canal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month he said U.S. control of Greenland was an "absolute necessity" and on Monday he posted on his Truth Social platform: "MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN!" "Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our Nation," he wrote. Trump later on Monday declined to rule out military or economic action as part of his avowed desire to have the U.S. take back control of the Panama Canal and acquire Greenland. Asked at a press conference whether he would avoid using military or economic coercion in Panama and Greenland, Trump said, "No, I can't assure you on either of those two. But I can say this, we need them for economic security." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen told Danish broadcaster TV2 following Trump's comments that she did not think it was a good way forward to fight close allies with financial means. "The United States are our most important and closest ally...so I can't imagine us getting there," she said. Donald Trump Jr. flew in his father's "Trump Force One" private plane for a visit expected to last 4-5 hours. No meetings were scheduled with government officials on the island, which has a population of just 57,000. "Greenland coming in hot ... Well, actually, really really cold!!!!," Trump Jr. said in a post on X along with a video from the cockpit as the plane prepared to land between snow-covered mountains. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We're really happy to be here. We're here as tourists to see this incredible place," he told local broadcaster KNR upon arrival, adding that he had originally planned to visit last spring. He said he had spoken to his father, "and he says hello to everyone in Greenland". Trump's incoming director of the Presidential Personnel Office, Sergio Gor, and Trump's incoming deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs, James Blair, also traveled to Greenland with Don Jr, according to their posts on social media site X. "As someone who has traveled to some fascinating places across the globe as an outdoorsman, I'm excited to stop into Greenland for a little bit of fun this week," Donald Trump Jr said in an emailed response about the trip. In 2019, Trump postponed a scheduled visit to Denmark after Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen rebuffed his idea of the U.S. purchasing Greenland, which was a Danish colony until 1953 and is now a semi-sovereign territory under the Danish realm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greenland Prime Minister Mute Egede has stated that the island is not for sale and in his New Year speech stepped up a push for independence. "Our future and fight for independence is our business," Egede said in a Facebook post on Tuesday. "While others, including Danes and Americans, are entitled to their opinions, we should not be caught up in the hysteria and let external pressures distract us from our path." Denmark, a NATO ally, has seen relations with Greenland worsen in recent years, prompted by allegations of historic mistreatment of residents under Danish rule. On Monday, Egede postponed a meeting with Denmark's King Frederik scheduled to take place in Copenhagen on Wednesday. No reason was given for the postponement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Frederiksen told broadcaster TV2 on Tuesday: "We need very close cooperation with the Americans. "On the other hand, I would like to encourage everyone to respect that the Greenlanders are a people, it is their country, and only Greenland can determine and define Greenland's future." Greenland straddles the shortest route between Europe and North America and is strategically important for the U.S. military and its ballistic missile early-warning system. It boasts mineral, oil and natural gas wealth, but development has been slow, leaving its economy reliant on fishing and subsidies from Denmark. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aaja Chemnitz, a Greenlandic member of the Danish parliament, said a U.S. takeover should be rejected. "I don't want to be a pawn in Trump's hot dreams of expanding his empire to include our country," she wrote. (Reporting by Stine Jacobsen, Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen, Louise Breusch Rasmussen and Alexandra Ulmer; editing by Sandra Maler, Bernadette Baum, Peter Graff, Mark Heinrich and Alistair Bell) (Bloomberg) -- Donald Trump Jr. will arrive in Greenland on Tuesday in a surprise visit to the Arctic territory, just weeks after his father, US President-elect Donald Trump, rekindled the idea of buying the island from Denmark. Most Read from Bloomberg A delegation landed in the capital Nuuk on Monday, and Trump Jr. himself will follow on Tuesday, the head of Greenlands Department of Foreign Affairs, Mininnguaq Kleist, told Bloomberg News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The trip comes as relations between Washington and Nuuk have been thrust into focus after Donald Trump last month hinted he still wants to buy Greenland, saying that US ownership and control of the island is an absolute necessity for national security. Greenland, located strategically between the Arctic and the North Atlantic, is becoming increasingly important geopolitically for the US. The self-ruling territory of Denmark is crucial to American national defense, being home to a US base thats used to detect missile threats and monitoring space. The islands vast stores of critical minerals and fossil fuels, which are becoming more accessible as ice is melting, have also drawn interest from global powers. The visit is private and Trump Jr. has scheduled no official meetings, Kleist said. Still, its the coldest and darkest time of year in Greenland, with Nuuk getting fewer than five hours of daylight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump Jr., who does not have an official role within his fathers incoming administration, during his evening show on Rumble on Monday confirmed he would be going on a personal day trip to Greenland alongside pro-Trump activist Charlie Kirk. No, I am not buying Greenland, he said. Still, his father seized on the trip to again needle Greenland over his longtime aspirations to bring the territory under US control. Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our Nation, the president-elect wrote in a social media post. We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside World. Trump Jr.s surprise trip to Nuuk coincides with Greenland Premier Mute B. Egede postponing a planned meeting with Denmarks King Frederik X on Wednesday in Copenhagen. Kleist said the timing of the canceled meeting with the king and Trump Jr.s visit is pure coincidence. Egede last month said the island is not for sale and will never be for sale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Egede has long pushed for Greenland to gain independence, and stepped up his rhetoric during his New Year speech. In the remarks, he expressed a need for Greenland to collaborate with neighboring states, saying our cooperation with other countries, and our trade relations, cannot only continue to happen via Denmark. Greenlands government last year published a foreign, security and defense policy blueprint that expressed a desire to forge closer links with North America. It comes after Greenlandic lawmakers in 2023 unveiled a draft constitution for an independent nation though full independence may still be some time away for the island of 57,000 people. Elon Musk, a close adviser to Trump, on Monday also joined the conversation, saying in a post on X that the people of Greenland should decide their future and I think they want to be part of America! (Updates to include background from fourth paragraph, Trump Jr. comment from seventh.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer said Saturday he will resign in the coming days after talks on forming a new government failed a second time. The announcement came after the Peoples Party and the Social Democrats on Saturday continued coalition talks a day after the liberal Neos partys surprise withdrawal from discussions. Unfortunately I have to tell you today that the negotiations have ended and will not be continued by the Peoples Party, said Nehammer, the conservative partys leader, in a statement on social media. He said that destructive forces in the Social Democratic Party have gained the upper hand and that the Peoples Party will not sign on to a program that it considers to be against economic competitiveness. Social democratic leader Andreas Babler said he regretted the Peoples Party decision to end the talks. This is not a good decision for our country, he said. Babler said that one of the main stumbling blocks had to do with how to repair the record deficit left by the previous government. I have offered to Karl Nehammer and the Peoples Party to continue negotiating and called on them not to give up, he told reporters Saturday evening. The next government in Austria faces the challenge of having to save between 18 to 24 billion euros, according to the EU Commission. In addition, Austria has been in a recession for the past two years, is experiencing rising unemployment, and its budget deficit is currently at 3.7% of Gross Domestic Product above the EUs limit of 3%. Babler blamed the collapse of the negotiations on forces within the Peoples Party that were against a coalition with the Social Democrats, while praising Nehammer for his readiness to compromise. STEPHANIE LIECHTENSTEIN, VIENNA, MDT/AP NEW YORK (AP) President-elect Donald Trump remains on track to be sentenced this week in his hush money case after a judge on Monday denied his request to halt proceedings while he appeals a ruling that upheld the historic verdict. Manhattan Judge Juan M. Merchan ordered sentencing to proceed as scheduled on Friday, a little more than a week before Trumps inauguration. The judge rejected a push by Trump's lawyers to postpone it indefinitely while they ask a state appeals court to reverse his decision last week that let the conviction stand. Trump, on course to be the first president to take office convicted of crimes, can still ask the appeals court to delay sentencing or seek to have another court intervene. His lawyers have previously suggested taking the case all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump's lawyers have told Merchan that if his sentencing happens, he will appear by video rather than in person. The judge had given him the option, acceding to the demands of the presidential transition process. Last Friday, Merchan denied Trumps bid to throw out his conviction and dismiss the case because of his impending return to the White House, but signaled he is not likely to sentence the Republican to any punishment for his conviction on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform after Merchan ruled that it would be the end of the Presidency as we know it if it is allowed to stand. Trumps lawyers, who are also challenging Merchans prior refusal to toss the case on presidential immunity grounds, filed appeal paperwork Monday in the appellate division of the states trial court. No arguments have been scheduled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, President Trumps legal team moved to stop the unlawful sentencing in the Manhattan D.A.s Witch Hunt, Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung said. The Supreme Courts historic decision on Immunity, the state constitution of New York, and other established legal precedent mandate that this meritless hoax be immediately dismissed. Trump's lawyers did not immediately ask the appeals court to halt Trump's sentencing. In a separate filing with Merchan, they argued that the appeal should automatically pause the case. If it didn't, they said he should step in and do it himself an idea he rejected. Manhattan prosecutors had urged Merchan to proceed with sentencing as scheduled, given the strong public interest in prompt prosecution and the finality of criminal proceedings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors blamed Trump for pushing his sentencing to the brink of his second term by repeatedly seeking to postpone his sentencing, originally scheduled for July. He should not now be heard to complain of harm from delays he caused, they wrote in a court filing Monday afternoon, hours before Merchan ruled. Any delay in sentencing could run out the clock on closing the case before Trumps second term begins Jan. 20. The Justice Departments Office of Legal Counsel, which provides legal advice and guidance to federal agencies, has maintained that a sitting president is immune from criminal proceedings. If sentencing doesn't happen before Trump is sworn in, waiting until he leaves office in 2029 may become the only viable option, Merchan said in his ruling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If sentencing proceeds on Friday as scheduled, Trumps lawyers argued, he will be appealing the verdict while in office and will be forced to deal with criminal proceedings for years to come. They raised an improbable scenario in which, if Trump wins his appeal, he could be then subjected to another criminal trial while in office. In upholding the verdict and rejecting Trump's bids for dismissal, Merchan wrote that the interests of justice would only be served by bringing finality to this matter through sentencing. He said giving Trump whats known as an unconditional discharge closing the case without jail time, a fine or probation appears to be the most viable solution. Trump's lawyers were unmoved, arguing that the meritless case was fostered by "numerous legal errors," including rulings by Merchan they say flew in the face of the U.S. Supreme Court's decision last July that granted presidents broad immunity from prosecution. The Courts non-binding preview of its current thinking regarding a hypothetical sentencing does not mitigate these bedrock federal constitutional violations, defense lawyers Todd Blanche and Emil Bove wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has selected both of them for high-ranking Justice Department positions. Trump will have an opportunity to speak at his sentencing, as will his lawyers and prosecutors. He can only appeal the verdict after he is sentenced. The charges involved an alleged scheme to hide a hush money payment to porn actor Stormy Daniels in the last weeks of Trumps 2016 campaign to keep her from publicizing claims shed had sex with him years earlier. He says that her story is false and that he did nothing wrong. The case centered on how Trump accounted for reimbursing his then-personal lawyer Michael Cohen, who had made the payment to Daniels. The conviction carried the possibility of punishment ranging from a fine or probation to up to four years in prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cohen, a key prosecution witness who had previously called for Trump to be put in prison, said that based upon all of the intervening circumstances Merchans decision to sentence Trump without punishment is both judicious and appropriate. Trumps sentencing initially was set for last July 11, then postponed twice at the defenses request. After Trumps Nov. 5 election, Merchan delayed the sentencing again so the defense and prosecution could weigh in on the future of the case. Donald Trump supporters clash with police and security forces as people try to storm the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Brent Stirton/Getty Images) Today January 6 marks the anniversary of one of the darkest days in American history. It was four years ago today that a violent mob spurred on by then-President Donald Trump invaded the U.S. Capitol Building in a deadly effort to nullify the results of the 2020 presidential election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The insurrection was an act of criminality that sealed Trumps place in the history books as an enemy of democracy and the Constitution. Amazingly, however, the combination of misinformation and short voter memories has allowed Trump to mount a political comeback and in two weeks he will return to the White House. And for those who care about truth and the rule of law, Trumps return, his promised pardons of the insurrectionists and stated plans to take revenge on opponents mark new low points in Americas national story. The bottom line: Donald Trump won the 2024 election, but that doesnt change history or the need for all Americans to remember his past actions and to be more vigilant than ever in resisting future assaults on constitutional government. For NC Newsline, Im Rob Schofield. Thousands of President Donald Trump's supporters storm the U.S. Capitol building following a "Stop the Steal" rally on Jan. 6, 2021 in Washington, D.C. The protesters stormed the historic building, breaking windows and clashing with police. Trump supporters had gathered in the nation's capital to protest the ratification of President-elect Joe Biden's Electoral College victory over Trump in the 2020 election. | Spencer Platt/Getty Images Today Jan. 6 marks the anniversary of one of the darkest days in American history. It was four years ago today that a violent mob spurred on by then-President Donald Trump invaded the U.S. Capitol Building in a deadly effort to nullify the results of the 2020 presidential election. The insurrection was an act of criminality that sealed Trumps place in the history books as an enemy of democracy and the Constitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amazingly, however, the combination of misinformation and short voter memories has allowed Trump to mount a political comeback and in two weeks he will return to the White House. And for those who care about truth and the rule of law, Trumps return, his promised pardons of the insurrectionists and stated plans to take revenge on opponents mark new low points in Americas national story. The bottom line: Donald Trump won the 2024 election, but that doesnt change history or the need for all Americans to remember his past actions and to be more vigilant than ever in resisting future assaults on constitutional government. https://michiganadvance.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/MondayCommentary_January6.mp3 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NC Newsline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. NC Newsline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Rob Schofield for questions: info@ncnewsline.com. Donald Trump will avoid jail time in his New York hush-money criminal convictionbut that doesnt mean hes happy with the result. In a Friday order, Judge Juan Merchan dealt the final blow to any suggestions of serious consequences for the president-elects guilty verdict. Merchan wrote that unconditional discharge had become the the most viable solution for Trump, indicating that the incoming president would not be hampered down with fines, court-appointed supervision, or incarceration. But that outcome was, apparently, not satisfactory for the convicted felon, who took to Truth Social to rant about how the lingering effects of the trial still prevented him from bad-mouthing the judge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement D.A. Alvin Bragg never wanted to bring this lawless case against me, Trump wrote on his social media platform. He was furious at the way it was handled, and especially angry at MARK POMERANTZ for his behavior, and what he did. Ultimately, the Biden/Harris DOJ forced Bragg to concoct anything to embarrass TRUMP. But it was even more so what the CORRUPT and TOTALLY CONFLICTED POLITICAL HACK Judge did, and is doing, on this sham trial, Trump continued. I even have, STILL, an Unconstitutional Gag Order where I am not allowed to speak about the Judges highly disqualifying Conflicts of Interest. Virtually ever legal scholar and pundit says THERE IS NO (ZERO!) CASE AGAINST ME. Trump also claimed that New Yorks legal system was fundamentally corrupt and was contributing to the fleeing of businesses from the countrys banking capital. The Judge fabricated the facts, and the law, no different than the other New York Judicial and Prosecutorial Witch Hunts, Trump wrote. Thats why businesses are fleeing New York, taking with them millions of jobs, and BILLIONS OF DOLLARS IN TAXES. The legal system is broken, and businesses cant take a chance in getting caught up in this quicksand. ITS ALL RIGGED, in this case against a political opponent, ME!!! Although Trump will face consequences more or less in name only, former U.S. District Attorney Joyce Vance argued in her legal column Civil Discourse that there could still be a light at the end of the tunnel in Merchans order. Rather than forcing sentencing before Trumps inauguration, Merchans decision to release Trump with unconditional discharge effectively takes the wind out of Trumps sails should he try to do away with the criminal conviction altogether, according to Vance. It could also help delay Trumps sentencing until hes out of office again, in which case, all bets are off. NEW YORK President-elect Donald Trump is seeking to cancel his Friday sentencing for his hush money conviction, arguing that the sentencing hearing must be postponed while he appeals. Trumps lawyers signaled in court papers that they will ask a New York appeals court to toss out the jurys May verdict, which found Trump guilty of 34 felony counts of falsifying business documents. In his appeal, Trump intends to argue that he is protected by presidential immunity arguments that the trial judge, Justice Juan Merchan, rejected. Trump says the sentencing hearing must be halted while higher courts weigh his immunity claims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Merchan quickly denied Trumps request on Monday, writing that his arguments are for the most part, a repetition of arguments he has raised numerous times in the past. But a higher court could still intervene to block the sentencing. Last Friday, in a decision denying Trumps latest bid to dismiss the case, Merchan scheduled the president-elects sentencing for Jan. 10. Merchan indicated he wouldnt sentence Trump to prison, saying it wouldnt be a practicable option given that Trump is about to return to the White House. Instead, the judge signaled that he is inclined to impose a sentence of unconditional discharge, a symbolic sentence that carries no concrete penalty. In their new court filing, dated Sunday and made public Monday, Trumps lawyers said their upcoming appeal should automatically halt all proceedings in the hush money case. The filing was submitted by Todd Blanche and Emil Bove, who are Trumps nominees to take the No. 2 and No. 3 positions at the Justice Department. As part of their argument, they cited a decision by U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan, the judge who oversaw the federal criminal case in which Trump was charged with trying to subvert the results of the 2020 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In that case, Chutkan ruled in 2023 that Trump was entitled to an automatic freeze of the trial-court proceedings while he pursued an appeal related to presidential immunity. The Supreme Court ultimately ruled in Trumps favor in that appeal, declaring that former presidents have broad immunity from prosecution for official acts they undertook while president. Presidents are also understood to be immune from prosecution while they are in office, and federal prosecutors dismissed the election-related case after Trump was reelected in 2024. Trumps immunity-based arguments in the hush money case are more tenuous than in the election case. The conduct he was convicted of in the hush money case covering up a payment to buy the silence of a porn star who said she had sex with him was not an official presidential act. But Trumps lawyers have maintained that prosecutors improperly introduced some evidence of his official acts during the trial. And they have argued that Trump ought to receive the same immunity protections during the transition period that he will enjoy after he takes office. Sitting-President immunity extends into the brief transition period during which the President-elect prepares to assume the Executive Power of the United States, Blanche and Bove wrote in their new filing, and the courts thus lack authority to adjudicate criminal claims against him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They also took aim at what they described as the rushed nature of the scheduled sentencing, suggesting it is politically motivated by the preferences of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, whose office prosecuted the case, rather than strictly procedural. In a filing responding to Trumps request to cancel the sentencing, Braggs office argued his appeal shouldnt automatically pause the criminal case. And prosecutors pinned the blame for the timing on him, pointing out that he twice successfully advocated for the sentencing to be postponed from its originally scheduled date. The current schedule is entirely a function of defendants repeated requests to adjourn a sentencing date that was originally set for July 11, 2024; he should not now be heard to complain of harm from delays he caused. President-elect Donald Trump is crying foul again over his New York hush-money case, calling the legal system corrupt and broken. Judge Juan Merchan, the man who replaced Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg (D), was the subject of Trumps ireafter he ordered the criminal sentencing for Friday, Jan. 10, just ten days before he returns to the White House. Judge Juan Merchan presides during the Trump Organization's criminal tax trial in 2023 / Jane Rosenberg/Reuters In a classically forthright Truth Social post Trump, 78, said Bragg never wanted to bring this lawless case against me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was furious at the way it was handled, and especially angry at MARK POMERANTZ for his behavior, and what he did, Trump added, referring to Braggs alleged feelings towards the former Manhattan District Attorneys Office prosecutor who worked on an investigation into Trumps sketchy payments to porn actress Stormy Daniels during his first stint in the White House in 2016. Mark Pomerantz previously argued that his team built a solid case for securing Trumps conviction on financial crimes way back in 2022. He said the then green Bragg stalled on the case because he was unfamiliar with the details, meaning no conviction was sought. This led to Pomerantz resigning. Trumps Sunday evening tale of woe continued, in third person no less: Ultimately, the Biden/Harris DOJ forced Bragg to concoct anything to embarrass TRUMP. But it was even more so what the CORRUPT and TOTALLY CONFLICTED POLITICAL HACK Judge did, and is doing, on this sham trial. He then claimed he is legally not allowed to speak about the judges conflicts of interest, even after calling Merchan a TOTALLY CONFLICTED POLITICAL HACK in the previous sentence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I even have, STILL, an Unconstitutional Gag Order where I am not allowed to speak about the Judges highly disqualifying Conflicts of Interest. Virtually ever legal scholar and pundit says THERE IS NO (ZERO!) CASE AGAINST ME, he lamented. The Judge fabricated the facts, and the law, no different than the other New York Judicial and Prosecutorial Witch Hunts, Trump added. Stormy Daniels is central to the case / Phillip Faraone/Getty Images Concluding seamlessly with claims that ITS ALL RIGGED, he signed off with: Thats why businesses are fleeing New York, taking with them millions of jobs, and BILLIONS OF DOLLARS IN TAXES. The legal system is broken, and businesses cant take a chance in getting caught up in this quicksand. ITS ALL RIGGED, in this case against a political opponent, ME!!! On Monday, Trumps lawyers filed a request to halt the sentencing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court should vacate the sentencing hearing scheduled for Jan. 10, 2025, and suspend all further deadlines in the case until President Trumps immunity appeals are fully and finally resolved, which should result in a dismissal of this case, which should have never been brought in the first place, Trumps lawyers said in the filing. Judge Merchan had rejected a request from the president-elect for the case to be dismissed so as to accommodate his presidency after his sweeping election victory. After that decision, Trump called the judge a radical partisan on Truth Social. He argued that presidential immunity means the case should have been thrown out. Steven Cheung, a spokesman for Trump, said in a statement Monday that the president-elects lawyers had moved to stop the unlawful sentencing in the Manhattan D.A.s Witch Hunt, claiming that the Supreme Courts historic decision on Immunity, the state constitution of New York, and other established legal precedent mandate that this meritless hoax be immediately dismissed, according to the Associated Press. This comes even after Merchan indicated that Trump wouldnt be jailed. Trump, who would still be the first president to take office convicted of felony crimes, looks set to receive a conditional dischargewhere a case gets dismissed if a defendant avoids rearrest. Trump was convicted in May of 34 counts of falsifying business records as part of an alleged scheme to hide a hush money payment to porn actress Stormy Daniels. When President-elect Donald Trump posted Sunday night about Congress getting to work on one powerful Bill, he wasnt just cheerleading for his domestic policy agenda. He was settling a weekslong feud among top Republican congressional leaders one that threatened to spin out of control this past weekend before Trump intervened. In endorsing a single bill, Trump effectively chose sides, opting for the too-big-to-fail approach favored by Speaker Mike Johnson over the strategy favored by Senate Majority Leader John Thune, who had been preparing to split Trumps sprawling domestic agenda of tougher border security, energy deregulation and tax cuts into two packages. Republicans must unite, and quickly deliver these Historic Victories for the American People, Trump wrote, settling the question and handing Johnson another major victory two days after helping him secure the speakers gavel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet Trump made his wishes known publicly only after a 36-hour period where the long-simmering debate over legislative tactics boiled over and had many Republicans questioning if their top leaders could ever get on the same page. The weekends wrangling not only spotlights the legislative tug-of-war already underway between Johnson and Thune but also Trumps aversion to playing referee. Both Sundays posting and last weeks involvement in the speaker race show that Trump will have to take a persistent, hands-on approach to keep his legislative agenda on track. Whether he can effectively do so is an open question. Just 12 hours after sending his one-bill pronouncement on Truth Social, he offered a more equivocal take in an interview with conservative talk show host Hugh Hewitt. I would prefer one [bill], but I will do whatever needs to be done to get it passed, Trump said, adding, I'm open to either way as soon as we get something passed as quickly as possible." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Any waffling might only encourage more jockeying between the two top congressional leaders: Johnson is ever mindful of his razor-thin margin in the House, where corralling Republicans behind two massive bills might be impossible. Thune, a veteran of the nasty legislative fights of Trumps first term, preferred a two-track approach that could deliver the incoming president a quick win before entering the thicket of tax policy. Matters came to a head Saturday morning, when Johnson told his House GOP colleagues at a policy retreat that Trump had come to favor one big, beautiful bill thus endorsing the approach favored by other House leaders, most prominently Ways and Means Chair Jason Smith (R-Mo.), who believed splitting up the agenda as Thune proposed carried too much risk. But like others who have claimed to speak for the returning president, Johnson quickly learned that his pronouncement was not the last word so long as Trump himself kept publicly silent. Senate Republicans insisted the question was not settled, and they spent the weekend reaching out to Trump and his team, seeking to get him to recommit to the two-track plan. In interviews Sunday, multiple Senate GOP aides and one Trump insider suggested that Johnson had gotten out over his skis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think he was overstepping a little bit, the person close to Trump said. I think Trump is considering everything. Its Johnson hearing what he wants to hear, said a Senate Republican aide. The feud also played out, politely, on the Sunday morning talk shows. After Johnson told Fox News Maria Bartiromo that "at the end of the day, President Trump is going to prefer, as he likes to say, one big, beautiful bill," two GOP senators appeared on the same program moments later to question his read. Im very worried that if we dont put border first and get it done, its going to be a nightmare for our national security, said incoming Senate Budget Chair Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I certainly support a two-step process, give President Trump the funds he needs to secure the border ... and then take our time to make sure we don't have a massive tax increase in 2026, Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) said. But two other GOP officials who like others interviewed for this story were granted anonymity to describe private conversations said the president-elect and his team knew in advance what the speaker would tell his members on Saturday. Notably, Stephen Miller Trumps incoming deputy chief of staff for policy who had been publicly backing Thunes two-bill approach for weeks was in the room for Saturdays strategy retreat and raised no objections, according to two people who attended. "It is a decided thing, a House GOP aide said, speculating that Senate Republicans were simply being bad sports. Im sure theyre not happy." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For nearly a month, GOP lawmakers had begged Trump to publicly state what he wanted. While Trump knew he wanted his domestic agenda passed into law, he didnt much care if it took one bill or 100 bills. Only on Sunday, with the clock ticking on a key prerequisite decision, did he choose to weigh in: In order to unlock the legislative magic wand known as budget reconciliation, thus allowing a partisan bill to skirt a Senate filibuster by Democrats, each chamber must first pass an identical budget resolution. And until Trumps posting, Senate Republicans were saying privately theyd continue advancing a framework providing for a narrower border bill first, even as the House pursued its own blueprint with much broader instructions including a tax overhaul. Amid the policy dispute, tensions between House and Senate leaders have ratcheted up quickly. Senior Senate Republicans are annoyed by what they see as a flip-flop by Johnson, who originally backed the two-bill strategy only to reverse course. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats on top of their grousing about Johnsons handling of the pre-holiday government spending fight where he seemed to think Trump was fine with the deal he struck with Democrats, only to see it blow up spectacularly. Unfortunately, Mike Johnson doesn't have a ton of credibility because he has gotten ahead of himself before, the Senate aide said. House Republicans, meanwhile, argue that it was Thune who got ahead of himself and now finds himself in the unenviable position of having to back down. Its not a good first step as leader, one senior House GOP told us last night. Johnson allies said his embrace of the one-bill approach was solidified in recent weeks as it became clear in the December spending drama and in last weeks nail-biter of a speaker election just how difficult it will be to get one major bill passed, let alone two. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With a three-vote majority at best, and various House GOP factions making competing demands on taxes, the only way to pass anything, the thinking goes, is to lump everything together, giving everyone a little sugar to help the medicine go down. At least one Republican senator has come to see the wisdom of that thinking: Oklahomas Markwayne Mullin a former House member and a close Thune ally. "It seems more realistic especially given the recent speaker's election that we may only get one bite at the apple because you have a highly thoughtful, and a highly dysfunctional, House, Mullin said. Meredith Lee Hill contributed to this report. In early January 2025, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump reportedly complained about the American flag being flown at half-staff on the day of his second presidential inauguration. Flags were lowered in December 2024 to honor late former President Jimmy Carter, who died Dec. 29, 2024. Snopes readers asked whether Trump had said the flags should be raised fully for his inauguration, or whether he had complained about them being at "half mast" for Carter. A number of posts on X also poked fun at Trump, including calling him a "baby" for the reported complaint. One post said: "Trump is flipping out because the flags will be at half staff during his inauguration in honor of former President Jimmy Carter." Trump is flipping out because the flags will be at half staff during his inauguration in honor of former President Jimmy Carter. Hes threatening to force them to be flown at full staff to soothe his fng ego. Has there ever been a bigger f*ck*ng whiner in the history of time? Jo (@JoJoFromJerz) January 4, 2025 While Trump did criticize the flags being flown at "half mast," most of his ire appeared to be directed at the Democrats for reportedly being "giddy" about the decision. On Jan. 3, 2025, Trump's official TruthSocial account shared the following post about the flags: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Democrats are all "giddy" about our magnificent American Flag potentially being at "half mast" during my Inauguration. They think it's so great, and are so happy about it because, in actuality, they don't love our Country, they only think about themselves. Look at what they've done to our once GREAT America over the past four years - It's a total mess! In any event, because of the death of President Jimmy Carter, the Flag may, for the first time ever during an Inauguration of a future President, be at half mast. Nobody wants to see this, and no American can be happy about it. Let's see how it plays out. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! (TruthSocial user @realDonaldTrump) Trump mentioned Carter once in his post, to state "because of the death of President Jimmy Carter, the Flag may, for the first time ever during an Inauguration of a future President, be at half mast." It does not appear that he was complaining about Carter specifically, and was instead angry about the Democrats' decision to let the flag fly at half-staff. Whether or not this was a complaint is also entirely subjective. According to U.S. code, flags are traditionally flown at half-staff by the order of the president to honor the deaths of important government figures. The death of a former president means the flag will be flown at half -staff for 30 days. The code states: By order of the President, the flag shall be flown at half-staff upon the death of principal figures of the United States Government and the Governor of a State, territory, or possession, as a mark of respect to their memory. In the event of the death of other officials or foreign dignitaries, the flag is to be displayed at half-staff according to Presidential instructions or orders, or in accordance with recognized customs or practices not inconsistent with law. [] The flag shall be flown at half-staff 30 days from the death of the President or a former President; 10 days from the day of death of the Vice President, the Chief Justice or a retired Chief Justice of the United States, or the Speaker of the House of Representatives. After Carter's death, President Joe Biden thus proclaimed the flags would be flown at half-staff for the allotted time. Per his proclamation (emphasis ours): Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, in honor and tribute to the memory of President James Earl Carter, Jr., and as an expression of public sorrow, do hereby direct that the flag of the United States be displayed at half-staff at the White House and on all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions for a period of 30 days from the day of his death. I also direct that, for the same length of time, the representatives of the United States in foreign countries shall make similar arrangements for the display of the flag at halfstaff over their embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the White House had no plans to raise the flags during Trump's inauguration. Trump infamously ordered flags to be raised to full-staff in 2018, just two days after Sen. John McCain's death, prompting criticism from all sides of the political spectrum. The president, who had a combative relationship with McCain, eventually ordered the flag to be lowered again. Sources: "4 U.S. Code 7 - Position and Manner of Display." LII / Legal Information Institute, https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/4/7. Accessed 6 Jan. 2025. "Proclamation Announcing the Death of James Earl Carter, Jr." The White House, 30 Dec. 2024, https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2024/12/29/proclamation-announcing-the-death-of-james-earl-carter-jr/. Accessed 6 Jan. 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Trump Complains That Flags Will Be Half-Staff to Honor Jimmy Carter on Inauguration Day." MSNBC.Com, 4 Jan. 2025, https://www.msnbc.com/top-stories/latest/trump-flags-half-staff-jimmy-carter-inauguration-rcna186227. Accessed 6 Jan. 2025. "Trump Complains That US Flags Will Be Half-Staff on His Inauguration Day." Reuters, 3 Jan. 2025. www.reuters.com, https://www.reuters.com/world/us/trump-complains-that-us-flags-will-be-half-staff-his-inauguration-day-2025-01-03/. Accessed 6 Jan. 2025. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's resignation as Liberal leader comes just two weeks before Donald Trump takes office as U.S. president while threatening to impose 25 per cent tariffs on all imports from Canada on Day 1. Trudeau said he will stay on as prime minister until his successor is chosen, creating the prospect that Canada will have a lame duck head of government just as its biggest trading partner hits its exports with steep tariffs. The resignation means there is now very little that Trudeau can do now to stave off Trump's tariff threat, says David MacNaughton, whom Trudeau appointed as Canada's ambassador to the U.S. in 2016. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The reality is, today you announce you're stepping down, your power, your influence dissipates almost immediately," MacNaughton told CBC News on Monday. He says Trudeau should have made this move months ago to ensure the government was prepared for Trump's potential return to the White House. "We're going to have a few months of uncertainty right now ... and in the meantime, Trump is feeling pretty cocky these days." Prime Minister Justin Trudeau dined with U.S. president-elect Donald Trump on Friday night. Trump described the meeting as 'very productive' on his social media platform Truth Social. Trudeau dined with U.S. president-elect Donald Trump in December. Trump described the meeting as 'very productive' on his social media platform, Truth Social. (@JustinTrudeau/X) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau's resignation leaves Canada and its economy vulnerable to whatever Trump plans to impose, says Xavier Delgado, senior program associate with the Wilson Center's Canada Institute in Washington. "It's a remarkable time for the prime minister to be announcing that he's stepping down," said Delgado. "Within the context of Canada-U.S. relations, it really does not make a lot of sense." 'People in Canada LOVE being the 51st State' Trump reacted to Trudeau's resignation with a post on his Truth Social platform. "Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State. The United States can no longer suffer the massive Trade Deficits and Subsidies that Canada needs to stay afloat. Justin Trudeau knew this, and resigned," Trump said in the post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If Canada merged with the U.S.," Trump continued, "there would be no Tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be TOTALLY SECURE from the threat of the Russian and Chinese Ships that are constantly surrounding them. Together, what a great Nation it would be!!!" Trudeau's decision to step down is bringing questions about how the government will handle any negotiations with the Trump administration. WATCH | Trudeau vows to stay focused on tariff threat: "In announcing that he's resigning, Trudeau effectively becomes a lame duck prime minister," Delgado said. "He does not really have a mandate, given the fact that folks down here in Washington know that he's not going to be around much longer." Trudeau cites need to 'stand up for Canadians' During his news conference outside Rideau Cottage, Trudeau was asked how the government can protect Canada from the tariff threat if key cabinet ministers are absorbed in a leadership race. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The government and the cabinet will still be very much focused on doing the job Canadians elected us to do in 2021, which is fight for their interests, stand up for their well-being and make sure that Canadians ... are protected and strong," Trudeau said. "I can assure you that the tools and the need to stand up for Canadians, to protect Canadians in their interests and continue to fight for the economy, is something everyone in this government will be singularly focused on." Prime Minister Justin Trudeau leaves a news conference after announcing his resignation as Liberal leader outside Rideau Cottage in Ottawa on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau leaves a news conference after announcing his resignation as Liberal leader outside Rideau Cottage in Ottawa on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. (Sean Kilpatrick/The Canadian Press) Trudeau did not directly answer a question about whether the Liberal leadership contestants would be required to quit their post during the race. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several top cabinet ministers working on the Canada-U.S. file including Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly and Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc are considered leadership contenders. The pair travelled to Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in late December to meet with two of the president-elect's cabinet picks and brief them on Ottawa's plan for improving border security, for which Trump has asked, if Canada hopes to avoid crushing tariffs. WATCH | Ontario premier urges Trudeau to plan for possible tariffs: Trudeau's resignation "could not have come at a worse time for U.S.-Canada relations," said Laura Dawson, executive director of Future Borders Coalition, an organization made of business leaders in both countries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The government is in this caretaker mode," Dawson said in an interview with CBC News. "The relationship [with the U.S.] just can't afford to be put on hold like that. " Dawson says she's not sure whether Trudeau's resignation puts Trump in a stronger negotiating position on tariffs, but says it does mean Canada now lacks the capacity to respond quick and nimbly to any new issues that Trump raises. "Who's driving this bus?" she asked. "There's no leadership." President Joe Biden's press secretary described Trudeau as "a stalwart friend of the United States" in comments to reporters Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We have worked closely together on the full range of issues facing our countries and the world as close allies, neighbours and as members of the G7," said Karine Jean-Pierre. "The president is grateful for the prime minister's partnership on all of that and for his commitment to defending North America from the geopolitical threats of the 21st century." WATCH | What happens when Parliament is prorogued?: President-elect Trump blasted President Bidens decision to block oil drilling across large swaths of the U.S.s coastlines, saying he will unban it. Its ridiculous; Ill unban it immediately, Trump said during an interview Monday with conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt. However, its not totally clear whether hell be able to do so. During his previous term, Trump tried to reinstate drilling in areas blocked off by former President Obama, but he was blocked from doing so in court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2019, a judge ruled that the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act gives presidents the right to block drilling in certain areas but not to reinstate it. Nevertheless, in the interview with Hewitt, Trump asserted he would be able to reverse Bidens action. I have the right to unban it immediately, he said. When I see somebody saying hes going to ban 625 million acres, he doesnt know what that is. He doesnt even know what 625 million acres would look like, and we cant let that happen to our country, Trump added. Bidens move to ban new drilling in more than 625 million acres represents the largest-ever area where a president has blocked drilling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Bidens move applies to areas that have low, if any, levels of offshore drilling. It did not apply to the central and western Gulf of Mexico where most U.S. offshore drilling occurs. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Heavy snow and freezing rain brought widespread disruption across Europe yesterday, particularly in the U.K. and Germany, with several major airports forced to suspend flights With the weather set to stay inclement on Sunday in the U.K., there are concerns that many rural communities, particularly in the north of England, could be cut off, with up to 40 centimeters of snow on ground above 300 meters. The National Grid, which oversees the countrys electricity network, said it had been working to restore power after outages across the country. The companys live map shows power cuts in Birmingham in central England, Bristol in the west and Cardiff in Wales. Many sporting events have already been postponed, though the heavyweight Premier League fixture between rivals Liverpool and Manchester United is on, following an inspection at Liverpools home ground of Anfield and of local conditions. Liverpools John Lennon Airport and Manchester Airport had to close runways, but both appeared poised to reopen them by late Sunday morning. Leeds Bradford Airport, however, said it had closed its runway on Sunday morning. The road network was heavily impacted too, on what would have been a very busy day with many families returning home from the Christmas and New Year break and students heading back to universities. Many roads had been preemptively closed by local authorities but stranded vehicles and collisions have caused disruption elsewhere. On the railways, many services were canceled, with National Rail warning of disruption continuing into the working week. Britains main weather forecaster, the Met Office, says sleet and snow will continue to push north on Sunday and will be heaviest in northern England and into southern Scotland. After experiencing freezing rain, which occurs when supercold rain freezes on impact, the south will turn milder. The Environment Agency has also issued eight flood warnings across southern England on the River Taw and River Avon. Snow and ice were also causing havoc in Germany, where a bout of winter weather is spreading from the southwest. Authorities have issued black ice warnings for drivers and pedestrians, advising people to stay home where possible. Frankfurt airport canceled 120 of its 1,090 planned takeoffs and landings on Sunday, according to the Fraport press office. At Munich airport, only one runway was open while the other one was being cleared. In Baden-Wuerttemberg eight people were injured when a bus skidded off the road near the town of Hemmingen. Long-distance train connections also experienced irregularities in the Frankfurt area. PAN PYLAS & MONIKA SCISLOWSKA, LONDON, MDT/AP During his campaign, President-elect Donald Trump promised to eliminate federal spending on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, reversing course from President Joe Biden, who boosted DEI practices during his presidency. Trump said he wants to fire DEI government employees and will direct the Department of Justice to pursue federal civil rights cases against schools that continue to engage in racial discrimination. He also said he would hold universities accountable that persist in explicit unlawful discrimination under the guise of equity by fining them the entire amount of their endowment. Vice President-elect JD Vance sponsored the Dismantle DEI Act in the Senate last June to eliminate all federal DEI programs and funding for federal agencies, contractors which receive federal funding, organizations which receive federal grants, and educational accreditation agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Axios, two first-day issues for Trump will be to revoke federal DEI requirements and terminate federal staffers implementing DEI policies. Is DEI still popular in the private sector? There are still a wide range of views on whether private companies and the federal government should promote DEI. For example, Bill Townsend, CEO and founder of College Rover, told NBC, The big positive about DEI is that it exposes people to ethnic groups and viewpoints about ethnicities that are different from how they were raised at home. We have to work and live among people who are different from us. DEI helps us manage that dynamic, he continued. Getting rid of DEI reinforces the fact that you dont have to get along with everybody. It shouldnt be that way. On the other hand, The Heritage Foundation claims DEI programs dont make people more tolerant of individual differences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harvard public policy professor Iris Bohnet said that although about $8 billion is spent yearly in the U.S. on DEI trainings, I did not find a single study that found that diversity training in fact leads to more diversity. Bohnet added, It is actually very hard to change mind-sets. How much does the federal government spend on DEI? The grassroots organization, Parents Defending Education, released a report mid-December showing that since 2021, the federal government has spent over $1 billion in diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, grants. Broken down, roughly $490 million went to DEI hiring, $343 million went to DEI programming and $169 million went to DEI based mental health/social emotional learning, according to the report. In Utah, the Cook Center for Human Connection located in Pleasant Grove received $4 million to serve 25,000 sixth-eighth graders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anne Brown, the president/CEO of Cook Center for Human Connection, explained the work the organization does: If your childs dealing with anger or resentment or depression or anxiety, theres courses that are directly to parents on these topics. Its directed to you as a parent, to get you the resources you need so that you can support your child. In other states, schools have received grants funding antiracist social-emotional learning counseling for students, youth activism and race-based teacher affinity groups. DOGE looking at DEI spending As a nation, the attitude surrounding DEI initiatives appears to have tipped towards the negative since last February, according to Pew Research Center. Matching this nationwide trend are Vivek Ramaswamy and Elon Musk, the leading figures behind the new Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, which has a mandate to slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures and restructure federal agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk has consistently voiced concern over the DEI movement on X, most recently writing, DEI is racism and sexism. He has said the movement is founded in illegal practices since it discriminates on the basis of race, gender and many other factors. Similarly, Ramaswamy, the soon to be head of the Department of Government Efficiency, wrote, Bidens Department of Health and Human Services has gone wild on DEI, claiming there are 207 DEI employees across seven offices, and 294 taxpayer-funded DEI staffers. He continued, The price tag for payroll alone exceeds $67 million, with a majority of these DEI hires making six-figure salaries. The latest HHS budget request mentions equity 829 times, with requests seeking to address racial equity and environmental justice at the forefront. An efficient government has no place for DEI bloat. Time to DOGE it. NEW YORK Donald Trump is seeking to stop his sentencing from going ahead Friday as his lawyers appeal a pair of rulings upholding his historic criminal conviction for the 2016 Stormy Daniels hush money scheme. Late Sunday two days after Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan denied Trumps requests to throw out the case and guilty verdicts against him in light of his election win the president-elects lawyers notified the judge they would appeal the rulings along with other defense requests he denied in December and said he should immediately vacate the sentencing set for Friday at 9:30 a.m. Merchan, on Jan. 3, flatly rejected Trumps position that he was in any way protected as president-elect from criminal proceedings based on the Supreme Courts July 1 ruling on presidential immunity and rejected his arguments that the will of voters should override that of the jury who found him guilty. It followed his ruling on Dec. 16, which also found that the Supreme Court immunity decision had no bearing on Trumps criminal case in Manhattan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The judge unexpectedly ruled Friday that Trump must appear in person or virtually for his sentencing on Jan. 10 to bring closure to the case and avoid causing immeasurable damage to the citizenrys confidence in the Rule of Law. He said he would impose a sentence of an unconditional discharge, which means Trump will not be subjected to jail time, probation, fines or any other form of punishment. The scheduling of Trumps sentencing for around 10 days before his inauguration came as a surprise, with prosecutors previously conceding that Trump may not be sentenced until 2029. In court papers made public Monday, Trumps lawyers, who have argued the cases existence will impact his ability to govern, said their impending appeals to a mid-level New York appellate court should automatically halt the proceedings from going forward. In the alternative, they said Merchan himself should grant an immediate pause. [The] court should not continue to act while its very power to act in the first place is under appellate consideration, Trump lawyers Todd Blanche and Emil Bove wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [T]here is no legal basis to rush ahead to sentencing rather than impose a stay, other than [the Manhattan district attorneys] preference to get this done prior to President Trumps inauguration so that DA Bragg can tell voters in his upcoming election that he completed the case, they later wrote. Trump spokesman Steven Cheung, in a statement Monday, said, President Trumps legal team moved to stop the unlawful sentencing in the Manhattan D.A.s Witch Hunt. The Supreme Courts historic decision on Immunity, the state constitution of New York, and other established legal precedent mandate that this meritless hoax be immediately dismissed. A spokeswoman for Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who brought the case, said, We will be filing our response with the court this afternoon. Merchans denials on Friday set up Trump to take office as the first felon to serve as U.S. president. A jury on May 30 found him guilty of falsifying business records in 2017 relating to his reimbursement to Michael Cohen for paying off porn star Daniels in the leadup to the 2016 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trial evidence showed that the payoff was one of at least three made to suppress unflattering information about his past from voters in 2016. The charges carry up to four years in prison. Trump decried the case and officials involved in a string of Truth Social posts over the weekend, claiming, I never falsified business records. It is a fake, made up charge by a corrupt judge who is just doing the work of the Biden/Harris Injustice Department, an attack on their political opponent, ME! He created a case where there was none. ______ Trump is taking credit for Justin Trudeaus resignationand pitching Canada as the 51st state in the process. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday after a decade of service as the countrys prime minister. Trudeaus exit comes as his party faces a likely defeat in upcoming elections this year. I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust nationwide, competitive process, Trudeau said in an Ottawa press conference on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump took this opporunity to blast Trudeau for not capitulating to him during their tariff conflict, in which the President-elect promised to enact a massive 25 percent tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico unless they bent to his absurd demands on trade and immigration. He wrote on Truth Social: Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State. The United States can no longer suffer the massive Trade Deficits and Subsidies that Canada needs to stay afloat. Justin Trudeau knew this, and resigned. If Canada merged with the U.S., there would be no Tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be TOTALLY SECURE from the threat of the Russian and Chinese Ships that are constantly surrounding them. Together, what a great Nation it would be!!! Trump and Trudeaus relationship has been antagonistic for years, as the President-elect levied steel and aluminum in 2018. Its very unlikely that tariffs are what pushed Trudeau out given that his party is sitting around 16 percent among decided voters, the lowest ever in his tenure. The Canadian parliament will be on break until a new leader is chosen on March 24. Donald Trump, then the GOP candidate for president, gave a keynote speech on the third day of the Bitcoin 2024 conference at Music City Center on July 27, 2024 in Nashville, Tennessee. He had previously dismissed cryptocurrency as a scam but embraced it in his latest bid for a second term in the White House.(Photo by Jon Cherry/Getty Images.) President-elect Donald Trumps recent appointments and cabinet nominees are pointing to a four-year stint of deregulation in the tech industry, and lots of potential for competitive growth within the industry and globally, tech executives predict. Trump has made a handful of recent selections, both to existing positions, like chair of the Federal Trade Commission and chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission, and he has created new positions for his term, like the AI and crypto czar. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There appears to be much more cohesion and support from within his camp to support a range of geopolitical, technology and innovation issues that were relegated in importance during his first term, software founder Yashin Manraj said. Trump has chosen FTC Commissioner Andrew Ferguson to be the agencys next chairman, replacing Lina Khan, who fought Big Tech overreach during her tenure. Hes slated to be joined by antitrust specialist Mark Meador in his former position. Together, the pair will likely continue to scrutinize Big Tech agencies, but for issues of censorship which was a Republican talking point during the election. Earlier this month, Trump named cryptocurrency advocate and former SEC commissioner Paul Atkins as his pick for chair of the SEC, and appointed former PayPal executive David Sacks to a new role of AI and crypto czar, PBS reported. The move comes as Trumps view on digital currencies has evolved. During his first presidency, Trump called it highly volatile and based on thin air, but has since changed his tune. In September, he rolled out a new venture to trade crypto, called World Liberty Financial, and said during his 2024 campaign, that he aims to make the U.S. the crypto capital of the planet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And on Monday, Trump met with Japanese-based investment firm SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son, who announced a $100 billion investment into U.S. projects over the course of Trumps term, many of which will focus on artificial intelligence. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Appointees setting the tone These tech industry appointees and connections lean toward traditional Republican deregulatory instincts, said Dev Nag, Bay Area-based founder and CEO of AI automation company QueryPal. Its a shift toward something Nag calls techno-pragmatic nationalism, or a mixture of these Republican deregulation instincts with industry policy that focuses on maintaining the U.S. status in the global tech economy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fergusons appointment to the FTC will likely result in policies that continue to allow large U.S. tech companies to thrive while addressing specific competitive issues. Well also probably see harder barriers against foreign tech competitors, especially China, Nag said. Manraj, the Eagle Point, Oregon-based founder and CEO of software company Pvotal Technologies, also sees Trumps appointments as an attempt to focus on growing the local tech economies, rather than the global one. These policies will weaken the tech industries of the European Union and many emerging countries, which were hoping for the heightened regulation under Harris to prevent further brain drains and promote [foreign direct investment] in their startup ecosystems, Manraj said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was a lot of technical advancement during President Joe Bidens term, but stronger tech regulations created some confusion and hesitation within the industry, Manraj said. Based on the track record of these appointees, were likely to see a significant rollback of AI safeguards implemented under the Biden administration, replaced with a framework emphasizing rapid deployment and commercialization, Nag said. SoftBanks investment is a sign that the industry is feeling ready to develop, and that investment dollars are more likely to flow under a Trump administration, Manraj said. Differences from Trumps first term The appointments and tech-industry relationships Trump has developed for his second term appear to make him more prepared to be supportive of tech innovation and growth than his first term, Manraj said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes relying on a new generation of technocrats, to enact change, Manraj said, rather than politically driven cabinet advisors from his first time in office. The crypto world is reacting positively to it, and many projects treading water for years are finally ramping up hiring and growth locally in the U.S., Manraj said. Nag predicted several potential technological advancements we may see under Trumps second term, including the relaxation of AI restrictions paired with lots of investments into tech. That may allow for AI to integrate across lots of industries and infrastructures faster than it would have under a Kamala Harris administration. Nag also noted Trumps change in attitude toward crypto, saying a friendlier regulatory environment for the digital currencies may position the U.S. as a global leader in the space. We may also see more advancement in semiconductor manufacturing and computing capabilities under more relaxed regulations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All of these advancements come with important governance considerations, though, Nag said. AI advancements that go so far without safety frameworks can create future problems that we cant come back from. The key challenge for this administration will be maintaining the delicate balance between fostering rapid innovation and ensuring long-term technological resilience, he said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Donald Trump will not be able to stop his sentencing hearing on Friday, according to the judge who oversaw the president-elects criminal hush money case. In an order issued Monday, Judge Juan Merchan said Trumps request to delay the hearing was unsuccessful because it is a repetition of the arguments he has raised numerous times in the past. Merchan has already indicated he would not sentence the incoming president to prison time for his 34-count felony conviction, lawyers for Trump now want to nix the sentencing hearing while an appeal is underway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When he is sentenced, he will formally be considered a convicted felon. He will be inaugurated on Jan. 20. Trumps attorneys, Todd Blanche and Emil Bove, said they intend to formally file their appeal Monday and that they will contest two previous rulings from the judge that rejected bids to dismiss the case on immunity grounds. In a request filed in New York on Sunday, the attorneys argued that the Constitution and protections already afforded to Trump under the Supreme Courts immunity ruling last year mean there can be no sentencing while he actively appeals. In a dig at Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, Blanche and Bove wrote Monday that the case should be dismissed and the sentencing immediately halted because the entire matter was flawed from the very beginning, [and] centered around the wrongful actions and false claims of a disgraced, disbarred serial-liar attorney eager to violate Trumps due process rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bragg filed a motion opposing Trumps request on Monday. The trial ended over seven months ago, Bragg wrote, and all post-trial motions have been adjudicated. As for sentencing, the district attorney urged that the Court has already stated its intent to impose the lowest possible sentence authorized by law: an unconditional discharge. There is no risk here of an extended proceeding that impairs the discharge of defendants official duties duties he does not possess before January 20, 2025, Bragg wrote. Further, Trumps conduct underpinning the charges has been disputed at length, and it was determined already that it was not official. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And, until his inauguration on January 20, 2025, defendant is simply not engaged in any official presidential functions that would support a claim of immunity from ordinary criminal process. Because the charges on which defendant was convicted are wholly unrelated to his official conduct, and because defendant relies on a purported President-elect immunity doctrine that does not exist, his invocation of immunity does not entitle him to an automatic stay pending appeal, Bragg wrote. When New York Judge Juan Merchan issued a ruling on Dec. 16 flatly rejecting Trumps presidential immunity arguments as grounds for dismissal, he explained his reasoning: The evidence presented and used to convict Trump related entirely to unofficial conduct, and the Supreme Court had left the door open to prosecution for unofficial acts. In May, a jury found Trump guilty on 34 counts of falsifying business records to cover up an alleged tryst he had with adult film actor Stormy Daniels ahead of the 2016 election. Trial evidence and testimony from Trumps onetime fixer and attorney, Michael Cohen, demonstrated how Cohen helped coordinate the cover-up of a $130,000 payment for Daniels that was meant to keep the news from spilling out into the public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even after his conviction, Trump has continued to claim he is not guilty. When Merchan refused to dismiss the case in December, he wrote that falsifying business records poses no danger of intrusion on the authority and function of the executive branch. In his order for Trump to appear at sentencing, the judge said Trump should be permitted to avail himself of every available appeal, but the sentencing hearing would move ahead nonetheless. The only viable course forward would be to issue a sentence under the terms of unconditional discharge, Merchan wrote. This type of sentence, which imposes no fines or prison time, is rare, but when applied, it is typically because there is no practical punishment available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps lawyers asked for a response from the judge by 2 p.m. on Monday. If there is none, his lawyers said they will file a request for an emergency appellate review. In addition to vacating the sentencing hearing scheduled to take place this week, they have also asked that all further deadlines in the case be fully and finally resolved. Trump was meant to be sentenced in the criminal hush money case in July. That sentencing hearing was waylaid by Merchan multiple times. He postponed sentencing so the Supreme Court could consider his immunity arguments and then again because of demands from Trumps presidential campaign. When reached for comment Monday, a spokesperson for Trump called the case a witch hunt, as Trump has done with any legal matter in which he is a defendant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The American People elected President Trump with an overwhelming mandate that demands an immediate end to the political weaponization of our justice system and all of the remaining Witch Hunts. We look forward to uniting our country in the new administration as President Trump makes America great again, spokesman Steven Cheung said. Trumps mandate was not exactly as sweeping as he routinely suggests. It was, in fact, a narrow popular victory over Vice President Kamala Harris. As noted by The New York Times, it was one of the smallest margins of victory since the 19th century. Related... (Bloomberg) -- Four years after a mob attacked the US Capitol to support Donald Trumps last-gasp effort to overturn his election loss, the events of Jan. 6, 2021, have evolved into a political and cultural flashpoint with little lasting damage to the president-elect. Most Read from Bloomberg The attack faced bipartisan condemnation in the immediate aftermath. But as Trump made 2020 election denialism a core part of his post-first term identity, downplaying the severity of the attack and denouncing the prosecutions that followed became a sign of loyalty and helped propel him to a second term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Subscribe to the Bloomberg Daybreak podcast on Apple, Spotify or anywhere you listen. As Trump prepares to return to power in two weeks, expectations are high for him to reward that allegiance and fulfill his promises of swift clemency for the 1,000-plus people convicted and hundreds more with pending cases. Any early action on Jan. 6 pardons would set the tone for how he might wield the presidency to reward loyalists and, critics fear, punish opponents. This years Jan. 6 election certification has been designated a national special security event to be overseen by the US Secret Service. Its the first time the vote-counting event has been given this classification, according to the agency, and allows for vast resources from the federal government and state and local partners to be used in the security plan. Another risk for Mondays event is heavy weather that arrived in Washington overnight. Weve got a big snowstorm coming to DC and we encourage all of our colleagues: Do not leave town, House Speaker Mike Johnson said on Fox News Sunday Morning Futures. So whether were in a blizzard or not, we are going to be in that chamber making sure this is done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Major General John C. Andonie, commanding general for the District of Columbia National Guard told reporters Friday that 500 soldiers would be on standby to support the certification. President Joe Biden drew fresh criticisms from Trump after he granted Presidential Citizens Medals on Thursday to Liz Cheney and Bennie Thompson, the bipartisan duo who headed a congressional panel investigating the Jan. 6 attack. Meanwhile, prosecutors and judges in Washington are making a final push to build out the public record of what Attorney General Merrick Garland has said is the largest federal investigation in US history. The US attorneys office continued to announce arrests in the weeks after the election in November, with a focus on people accused of assaulting police. At the same time, a Justice Department special counsel ended his pursuit of the two federal criminal cases against Trump, including one related to the 2020 election. The department has a longstanding policy against prosecuting sitting presidents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some judges have criticized the prospect of mass pardons. Others have said that how Trump exercises his power isnt their business, but that it wont change their assessment after spending the past four years hearing testimony from police officers and other witnesses who were at the Capitol and poring over videos, documents and other evidence. New Precedent It was an insurrection. It was a disruption of the lawful functions of government, and it almost worked, US District Judge Paul Friedman said in court during a Dec. 10 sentencing. Trump encouraged it and incited it, the judge said, and members of Congress trying to rewrite history are really disgusting. Rizwan Qureshi, a former federal prosecutor, said that mass clemency from Trump for the Jan. 6 attack would set a bad precedent for how Americans think about handling political losses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Qureshi was part of the team that prosecuted people swept up in mass arrests during destructive demonstrations during Trumps first inauguration in 2017. The office dropped the bulk of cases after early trials ended with acquittals. Full pardons have the impact of eliminating any of the deterrence of prosecutions, he said. Clemency from Trump may take the form of full amnesty or pardons, commutations that cut short sentences or some combination. He has said it will be among his first actions after hes sworn in on Jan. 20. Hes been non-committal about the scope, focusing his comments on non-violent offenders and saying his administration would look at each individual case. Senator Adam Schiff, a California Democrat who sat on a House committee that investigated Trumps role in the Jan. 6 attack, said Trump swiftly pardoning vast numbers of people involved in that violence would send a terrible message about democracy. I think it would be a terrible start, he said on NBCs Meet the Press. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among those waiting for any clemency action is Nicole Reffitt, whose husband Guy Reffitt was the first Jan. 6 defendant convicted at trial and is serving an almost seven-year prison sentence. Her husband brought a handgun to the Capitol and was, in the governments words, at the front of a pack that charged police officers. Process Uncertainty There is anxiety in the Jan. 6 community because of the uncertainty of what the process is even going to look like, said Nicole Reffitt, who participates in vigils at the local jail in Washington to support Capitol riot defendants and said she wasnt aware of direct outreach from Trumps team to families of those convicted. She said that an intermediary, whom she declined to identify, relayed from the transition that families and defendants should feel confident and secure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Marina Medvin, an attorney for several Jan. 6 defendants, told Bloomberg she hadnt received word from Trumps team. A spokesperson for the presidential transition declined to comment. Trials have revealed that people brought guns, knives, chemical sprays, tasers and an array of makeshift weapons to the Capitol. As of Monday, about 1,583 people had been charged in connection with the attack, according to the US attorneys office in Washington. More than 600 were charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, and of those cases, 174 involved weapons or injuring officers. More than 1,000 defendants have pleaded guilty to crimes and more than 200 were found guilty at trial. Of those convicted, 667 were sentenced to time behind bars, with terms ranging from a few weeks to decades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Incarceration Figures The US attorneys office didnt share how many defendants are serving prison sentences. It did disclose that in the 300 pending cases, there are just eight defendants in pretrial detention at the local jail in Washington several of whom allegedly committed other crimes before being arrested or violated a judges conditions for being free pending trial. A US attorneys office spokesperson declined to comment on the clemency prospect. Trump and his intended nominee to lead the Justice Department, former Florida attorney general Pam Bondi, are expected to end the Jan. 6 investigation, heading off future charges. The US attorneys office said prosecutors were reviewing about 200 more potential cases presented by FBI investigators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Paula Calloway, a conservative advocate who has been coordinating support for defendants, said shes aware of at least 236 people serving prison sentences in federal facilities or awaiting trial at the Washington jail. Calloway, who said she was at the Capitol on Jan. 6 but didnt go inside and wasnt charged, said shed be disappointed if Trump doesnt sign complete pardons for everyone, regardless of the crimes they were accused of committing. They all just need to go home, she said, adding that she didnt trust evidence from the government. With a stack of first-100-days promises in the offing, Trump may have bigger priorities than clemency, such as securing the border, said Republican strategist Lisa Camooso Miller. Hes still likely to maintain that the Biden administration has overly politicized the Jan. 6 investigations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps decisive election victory over Vice President Kamala Harris also takes away from some of the oxygen and the energy around that dissatisfaction of Jan. 6, she said. --With assistance from Maria Paula Mijares Torres. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Donald Trumps victory in the November presidential election was certified by Congress on Monday, and this time the only thing storming the Capitol was the heavy winter snowfall hitting Washington, D.C. Vice President Kamala Harris presided over the certification, announcing Trumps 312 Electoral College votes, to her own 226. Republicans stood and applauded as she announced Trumps total. The contrast between the procedure to finalize Trumps victory ahead of his inauguration stands in stark contrast to what followed his 2020 election loss to outgoing President Joe Biden. Trump denied his loss, claiming widespread fraud and pushing the lie that the election was rigged against him. The conspiracy mongering, and his refusal to concede the presidency to Biden, resulted in a mob of angry pro-Trump protesters storming the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the violence unfolded, Trump refused to intervene, and at one point outright egged on the crowd by calling out then-Vice President Mike Pence over his refusal to participate in the plot to replace electoral votes for Biden with fake pro-Trump electoral ballots, in his role overseeing the certification. Mike Pence didnt have the courage to do what should have been done to protect our Country and our Constitution, giving States a chance to certify a corrected set of facts, not the fraudulent or inaccurate ones which they were asked to previously certify. USA demands the truth! Trump tweeted as the crowd of his supporters attempted to force their way into the complex. A gallows was erected outside of the Capitol, and rioters chanted hang Mike Pence as vastly underprepared law enforcement agents attempted to control the situation. Lawmakers were forced to evacuate from the Capitol or shelter in place with their staff, some coming within feet of the mob as they attempted to find a clear path to safety. Rioters briefly took control of the Senate chamber, and one participant was photographed carrying zip-tie handcuffs. It would be hours before law enforcement cleared the Capitol of rioters and lawmakers were able to return to the ransacked chambers of government to resume the session. At around 3:00 a.m. on Jan. 7, Bidens Electoral College victory was finally certified by Congress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The attempted coup caused over $2.7 million dollars in damages to the Capitol. One rioter, Ashli Babbitt, was shot and killed by law enforcement while attempting to climb through a door to the Speakers Lobby. Multiple other participants died during the attack, and multiple law enforcement officers died in its aftermath. 175 law enforcement officials were injured while attempting to defend the Capitol and lawmakers from the mob. Despite initial criticism and disavowal of Trump by Republicans, within weeks the GOP rallied around their then-former president to defend him from the fallout of the attack. In the four years since, Trump has come out unscathed from virtually every attempt to hold him accountable for his attempts to cling to power, in part because of how Republicans have been working to rewrite the history of the attack, claiming that those prosecuted for their involvements were victims of political persecution, and that the riot itself had been nothing more than some overenthusiastic tourism. When Harris was asked how it felt to preside over the peaceful transfer of power, she replied with a simple message: Democracy prevails. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Exactly four years after a mob of Donald Trumps supporters perpetrated the worst attack on the U.S. Capitol since Major General Robert Ross ordered British soldiers to set it ablaze more than two centuries before, Vice President Kamala Harris presided over a joint session of Congress to give Trump the peaceful transfer of power she was denied after the 2020 election. Harris who four years earlier was both vice president-elect and the sitting junior senator from California led senators from their chamber across the Capitols ornate rotunda into the House chamber at exactly 1 p.m. Monday, the date laid out in American law for Congress to officially certify the election of the next president and vice president. She smiled as she entered the chamber to polite applause from both sides of the aisle. She walked past a beaming Marjorie Taylor Greene, an outspoken supporter of the rioters who stormed the same room four years ago. JD Vance, vice president-elect, entered shortly after and took his seat in the front row. Harris stood alongside Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson as both watched as the Electoral College votes were counted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unlike four years ago, when then-vice president Mike Pence read out the results and asked if senators or representatives had any objections to each states electoral vote totals, this years joint session employed a new procedure devised by lawmakers in the wake of Trumps effort to overturn the election results four years ago. Though Harris called the joint session to order, she played no role in the counting or reading of the Electoral College vote totals. Instead, selected tellers members of the House and Senate chosen by leadership read out the states and their vote results in alphabetical order. U.S. Capitol Police officers stand watch outside the U.S. Capitol building as snow falls ahead of a joint session of Congress. Travel in the area has been snarled by Winter Storm Blair (Photo by SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Images) While Pence had taken a moment to ask for objections and read other parliamentary language about the provenance of the electoral certificates, Harris did not interject as each states results were called out. Trumps vote total passed the requisite 270 needed for him to claim the presidency after the results from the state of Texas were read. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once all the states had been read out, Harris called for the House and Senate tellers to report the result. She then read out the words that sealed her defeat, telling the joint session: The votes for president of the United States are as follows: Donald J. Trump of the state of Florida has received 312 votes. Kamala D. Harris of the State of California has received 226 votes. Harris then read out the result for the next vice president, telling the assembled House and Senate members that Vance had received 312 votes while her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, had earned 226. This announcement of the state of the vote by the President of the Senate shall be deemed a sufficient declaration of the persons elected president and vice president of the United States, each for a term beginning on the 20th day of January, 2025 and shall be entered. Together with the list of the votes on the journals of the House and the Senate, she said. It was a process that took just half an hour a far cry from the nearly 15 hours that elapsed from the time Pence gaveled in the joint session in 2021 to when he declared Biden and Harris the winners in the wee hours of January 7 after the riot by the then-presidents supporters forced lawmakers to shelter in place after fleeing the House and Senate chambers for their lives. Harris said it had been obviously a very important day and stressed that the drama-free certification that had taken place should be the norm (AP) Unlike four years ago, not a single senator or representative objected to the certification, and Harris was able to exit after completing her duties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a pre-recorded video message, she had said she would perform her constitutional duty as Vice President of the United States to certify the results of the 2024 election and called her role a sacred obligationone I will uphold guided by love of country, loyalty to our Constitution, and my unwavering faith in the American people, The peaceful transfer of power is one of the most fundamental principles of American democracy. As much as any other principle, it is what distinguishes our system of government from monarchy or tyranny, she said. Harris echoed those comments later in the day in brief remarks to reporters after the joint session had come to a close. She said it had been obviously a very important day and stressed that the drama-free certification that had taken place should be the norm and is what the American people should be able to take for granted ... that there will be a peaceful transfer of power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, I did what I have done my entire career, which is take seriously the oath that I have taken many times to support and defend the Constitution of the United States, which included today performing my constitutional duties to ensure that the people of America, the voters of America, will have their votes counted, that those votes matter, and that they will determine that the outcome of an election, she said. Pence, Harriss predecessor, posted a message to X (formerly Twitter) calling the peaceful transfer of power a hallmark of our democracy and praising representatives and senators for crtifying the election without controversy or objection. I welcome the return of order and civility to these historic proceedings and offer my most sincere congratulations and prayers to President Donald J. Trump and Vice President J. D. Vance on their election to lead this great Nation, he said. He also offered commendation to the House and Senate members and Harris who he said did their duty under the Constitution of the United States with Harriss actions being particularly admirable as she presided like Pence had over the certification of a presidential election that she lost. Monday marks the fourth anniversary of the violent events of Jan. 6, 2021 -- a day President-elect Donald Trump has continually tried to recast as a "day of love." Trump is vowing to pardon Jan. 6 rioters on the first day of his administration, saying while it will done be on a case-by-case basis, he believes a majority of them should not be in jail and have "suffered greatly." At an event at Mar-a-Lago over the weekend, according to an audio recording obtained by ABC News, he continued to claim that the the electoral votes from the 2020 election "could have been sent back" and criticized then-Vice President Mike Pence for adhering to his constitutional duty to uphold the certification process and not unilaterally reject the election results. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Trump promises pardon for Jan 6 rioters on his first day President Joe Biden, on the other hand, penned an op-ed on Sunday in which he pushed back on attempts to "rewrite -- even erase -- the history of that day." "Violent insurrectionists attacked the Capitol, threatened the lives of elected officials and assaulted brave law enforcement officers," he wrote in the Washington Post. "We should be proud that our democracy withstood this assault. And we should be glad we will not see such a shameful attack again this year." And in remarks to congressional Democrats, Biden said it was now their "duty to tell the truth." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You remember what happened, and don't let Jan. 6 be rewritten or even erased," he told them. "To honor the Constitution, not only the most extraordinary of days, but it's one of the toughest days in American history: Jan. 6." PHOTO: Supporters of President Donald Trump climb the west wall of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, Jan. 6, 2021. (Jose Luis Magana/AP) On the campaign trail, Trump often aired grievances and false claims about the 2020 election and tried to downplay what transpired on Jan. 6, 2021. One notable exchange came during a Univision town hall weeks before Election Day, when a Republican audience member pressed Trump on his actions that day as thousands of his supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol, temporarily disrupting the certification of Biden's win. Trump falsely claimed no one in the crowd was carrying firearms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "That was a day of love," Trump said. "From the standpoint of the millions, it's like hundreds of thousands. It could have been the largest group I've ever spoken to before. They asked me to speak. I went and I spoke, and I used the term 'peacefully and patriotically.'" MORE: Where the Jan. 6 Capitol attack investigation stands, by the numbers: DOJ During the ABC News presidential debate in September 2024, Trump was asked if he had anything he regretted about Jan. 6, 2021. "I had nothing to do with that, other than they asked me to make a speech," he responded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nearly 1,600 individuals have faced charges associated with the Capitol attack, according to new figures released by the U.S. Attorney's Office. That includes 608 individuals who have faced charges for assaulting, resisting or interfering with law enforcement trying to protect the complex that day, the office said. Approximately 140 law enforcement officers were injured during the riot, the DOJ has said. On Monday, Vice President Kamala Harris will preside over the congressional certification of Trump's 2024 victory. In a brief video message on Monday, Harris reflected on the importance of the peaceful transfer of power, saying the country's witnessed how "our democracy can be fragile" and "it is up to then each one of us to stand up for our most cherished principles." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump on social media called the upcoming certification a "A BIG MOMENT IN HISTORY. MAGA!" ABC News' Soorin Kim, Lalee Ibssa, Kelsey Walsh and Alexander Mallin contributed to this report. Trump's continuing effort to downplay Jan. 6 violence as 'day of love' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. (AND NO SPAM!) Just click here. Jared Birchall, Elon Musk's money manager and the head of his family office, is listed as the chief executive officer. Jehn Balajadia, a longtime Musk aide who has worked at SpaceX and the Boring Co., is named as an official contact. But they're not connected to Musk's new technology venture, or the political operation that's endeared him to Donald Trump. Instead, they're tied to the billionaire's new Montessori school outside Bastrop, Texas, called Ad Astra, according to documents filed with state authorities and obtained via a Texas Public Information Act request. The world's richest person oversees an overlapping empire of six companies - or seven, if you include his political action committee. Alongside rockets, electric cars, brain implants, social media and the next Trump administration, he is increasingly focused on education, spanning preschool to college. One part of his endeavor was revealed last year, when Bloomberg News reported that his foundation had set aside roughly $100 million to create a technology-focused primary and secondary school in Austin, with eventual plans for a university. An additional $137 million in cash and stock was allotted last year, according to the most recent tax filing for the Musk Foundation. Ad Astra is closer to fruition. The state documents show Texas authorities issued an initial permit last month, clearing the way for the center to operate with as many as 21 pupils. Ad Astra's website says it's "currently open to all children ages 3 to 9." The school's account on X includes job postings for an assistant teacher for preschool and kindergarten and an assistant teacher for students ages 6 to 9. To run the school, Ad Astra is partnering with a company that has experience with billionaires: Xplor Education, which developed Hala Kahiki Montessori school in Lanai, Hawaii, the island 98% owned by Oracle Corp. founder Larry Ellison. Ad Astra sits on a highway outside Bastrop, a bedroom community about 30 miles from Austin and part of a region that's home to several of Musk's businesses. On a visit during a recent weekday morning, there was a single Toyota Prius in the parking lot and no one answered the door at the white building with a gray metal roof. The school's main entrance was blocked by a gate, and there was no sign of any children on the grounds. But what information there is about Ad Astra makes it sound like a fairly typical, if high-end, Montessori preschool. The proposed schedule includes "thematic, STEM-based activities and projects" as well as outdoor play and nap time. A sample snack calendar features carrots and hummus. While Birchall's and Balajadia's names appear in the application, it isn't clear that they'll have substantive roles at the school once it's operational. Musk, Birchall and Balajadia didn't respond to emailed questions. A phone call and email to the school went unanswered. Access to high quality, affordable childcare is a huge issue for working parents across the country, and tends to be an especially vexing problem in rural areas like Bastrop. Many families live in "childcare deserts" where there is either not a facility or there isn't an available slot. Opening Ad Astra gives Musk a chance to showcase his vision for education, and his support for the hands-on learning and problem solving that are a hallmark of his industrial companies. His public comments about learning frequently overlap with cultural concerns popular among conservatives and the Make America Great Again crowd, often focusing on what he sees as young minds being indoctrinated by teachers spewing left-wing propaganda. He has railed against diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, and in August posted that "a lot of schools are teaching white boys to hate themselves." Musk's educational interests dovetail with his new role as Trump's "first buddy." The billionaire has pitched a role for himself that he - and now the incoming Trump administration - call "DOGE," or the Department of Government Efficiency. Though it's not an actual department, DOGE now posts on X, the social media platform that Musk owns. "The Department of Education spent over $1 billion promoting DEI in America's schools," the account posted Dec. 12. Back in Texas, Bastrop is quickly becoming a key Musk point of interest. The Boring Co., his tunneling venture, is based in an unincorporated area there. Across the road, SpaceX produces Starlink satellites at a 500,000-square-foot (46,000-square-meter) facility. Nearby, X is constructing a building for trust and safety workers. Musk employees, as well as the general public, can grab snacks at the Boring Bodega, a convenience store housed within Musk's Hyperloop Plaza, which also contains a bar, candy shop and hair salon. Ad Astra is just a five-minute drive away. It seems to have been designed with the children of Musk's employees - if not Musk's own offspring - in mind. Musk has fathered at least 12 children, six of them in the last five years. "Ad Astra's mission is to foster curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking in the next generation of problem solvers and builders," reads the school's website. A job posting on the website of the Montessori Institute of North Texas says "While their parents support the breakthroughs that expand the realm of human possibility, their children will grow into the next generation of innovators in a way that only authentic Montessori can provide." The school has hired an executive director, according to documents Bloomberg obtained from Texas Health and Human Services. Ad Astra is located on 40 acres of land, according to the documents, which said a 4,000-square-foot house would be remodeled for the preschool. It isn't uncommon for entrepreneurs to take an interest in education, according to Bill Gormley, a professor emeritus at the McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown University who studies early childhood education. Charles Butt, the chairman of the Texas-based H-E-B grocery chain, has made public education a focus of his philanthropy. Along with other business and community leaders, Butt founded "Raise Your Hand Texas," which advocates on school funding, teacher workforce and retention issues and fully funding pre-kindergarten. "Musk is not the only entrepreneur to recognize the value of preschool for Texas workers," Gormley said. "A lot of politicians and business people get enthusiastic about education in general - and preschool in particular - because they salivate at the prospect of a better workforce." Political Moves Musk spent much of October actively campaigning for Trump's presidential effort, becoming the most prolific donor of the election cycle. He poured at least $274 million into political groups in 2024, including $238 million to America PAC, the political action committee he founded. While the vast majority of money raised by America PAC came from Musk himself, it also had support from other donors. Betsy DeVos, who served as education secretary in Trump's first term, donated $250,000, federal filings show. The Department of Education is already in the new administration's cross hairs. Trump campaigned on the idea of disbanding the department and dismantling diversity initiatives, and he has also taken aim at transgender rights. "Rather than indoctrinating young people with inappropriate racial, sexual, and political material, which is what we're doing now, our schools must be totally refocused to prepare our children to succeed in the world of work," Trump wrote in Agenda 47, his campaign platform. Musk has three children with the musician Grimes and three with Shivon Zilis, who in the past was actively involved at Neuralink, his brain machine interface company. All are under the age of five. Musk took X, his son with Grimes, with him on a recent trip to Capitol Hill. After his visit, he shared a graphic that showed the growth of administrators in America's public schools since 2000. School Permits In 2014, Musk opened a private school - also called Ad Astra - for his five older kids and the children of SpaceX employees in southern California. By 2020, the Covid pandemic was underway, and SpaceX was building out operations in Texas. In the Rio Grande Valley of south Texas, SpaceX's Starbase facility is home to the company's massive Starship rocket, designed to take humans to the moon and Mars. SpaceX wants to incorporate Starbase as a city, and there's already a "Kenmont School at Starbase" child care center. Separately, another Ad Astra day care facility owned by SpaceX appears to be under construction, according to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Tuition Costs Musk is a fan of hands-on education. During a Tesla earnings call in 2018, he talked about the need for more electricians as the electric-car maker scaled up the energy side of its business. On the Joe Rogan podcast in 2020, Musk said that "too many smart people go into finance and law." "I have a lot of respect for people who work with their hands and we need electricians and plumbers and carpenters," Musk said while campaigning for Trump in Pennsylvania in October. "That's a lot more important than having incremental political science majors." Ad Astra's website says the cost of tuition will be initially subsidized, but in future years "tuition will be in line with local private schools that include an extended day program." "I do think we need significant reform in education," Musk said at a separate Trump campaign event. "The priority should be to teach kids skills that they will find useful later in life, and to leave any sort of social propaganda out of the classroom." (COMMENT, BELOW) Tomiko Itooka, a Japanese woman who was the worlds oldest person according to Guinness World Records, has died, an Ashiya city official said Saturday. She was 116. Yoshitsugu Nagata, an official in charge of elderly policies, said Itooka died on Dec. 29 at a care home in Ashiya, Hyogo Prefecture, central Japan. Itooka, who loved bananas and a yogurt-flavored Japanese drink called Calpis, was born on May 23, 1908. She became the oldest person last year following the death of 117-year-old Maria Branyas, according to the Gerontology Research Group. When she was told she was at the top of the World Supercentenarian Rankings List, she simply replied, Thank you. When Itooka celebrated her birthday last year, she received flowers, a cake and a card from the mayor. Born in Osaka, Itooka was a volleyball player in high school, and long had a reputation for a sprightly spirit, Nagata said. She climbed the 3,067-meter Mount Ontake twice. She married at 20, and had two daughters and two sons, according to Guinness. Daniel Russel is vice-president of International Security and Diplomacy at the Asia Society Policy Institute (ASPI). A veteran diplomat, he focused on the US' Asian affairs for decades and played a key role in former president Barack Obama's pivot to Asia. 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. I left with a clean conscience. I had 33 years of service to my country. During the last eight years, we worked directly for the wonderful US president Barack Obama, working on the Asia account. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Donald Trump was inaugurated [in 2017], I did stay on for several months to smooth the transition, support the new team and make sure people in the Bureau of East Asia and Pacific Affairs and in our embassies were well looked after. But I had no intention of staying under the Trump administration because it really wasn't an option for me. I felt that the values and principles of US foreign policy that I had served under for decades were being undermined and contravened by many of the policies of the Trump administration. The Chinese government has the ability to set aside sanctions if it feels doing so can serve its interests. However, the choice of figures like Marco Rubio and Mike Waltz as national security adviser signals a very hard line on China, with a greater focus on zero-sum ideological confrontation. Beijing may find it difficult to engage with a team that has shown so much interest in decoupling and containment and so little interest in compromise and engagement. That said, it is unclear how this hawkish perspective will fit with Donald Trump's overall agenda. Beijing's actions - towards its neighbours, minorities and Western countries - along with policies exploiting access to Western intellectual property and technology [and] militarisation of the South China Sea, have fuelled bipartisan mistrust of China in the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Figures like Marco Rubio and Mike Waltz don't emerge in isolation; their views align with many of their colleagues in the Senate, the House and the broader policy community. While there are problems and flaws in this hardline approach, it reflects widespread and often legitimate concerns about some of China's behaviours and policies. These concerns are not limited to the United States. Do you expect Trump's second term to differ from his first? Where are US-China relations headed? One thing that complicates the answer to that question is that there were different China policies under president Trump from 2017 to 2021. In 2017, Trump's policy towards China was as friendly and affectionate as one could imagine. Let's not lose sight of the fact that his first administration was not tough on China from the start. It became tough in stages, but didn't begin that way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This reflects the inconsistency, or perhaps the impulsive nature, of Donald Trump. Some aspects of his approach remain unchanged from his first term. He is confident in his instincts, highly transactional and strongly committed to the "America first" brand of nationalism. Policies like tariffs are examples of this. That said, unlike in 2017 Donald Trump is no longer a beginner as president or commander-in-chief. Over four years he acquired substantial experience in governance and showed tremendous confidence in his instincts. He also appeared to have an aversion to relying on advice from his subordinates, which is a notable change from when he first took office. I suspect that, unlike his first term, Donald Trump is likely in a hurry. The midterm elections in the US are not kind to re-elected presidents. He got narrow majorities in both the House and the Senate, which will help him implement his policies, but the Democrats could flip either or both houses in 2026. That is an incentive to get as much done as quickly as he can. In a way, he has nowhere to go but down in the midterms. Moreover, he is almost 80 years old. It won't be long before much of the political world starts turning its attention to his successor, especially because he's not constitutionally eligible for another term, not to mention his age and other factors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another difference is that attitudes towards China, both in the United States and in much of the West, have significantly hardened. There have been geopolitical shifts, and now China faces a less forgiving global environment. Additionally, China's problems - the declining economic power, issues with neighbours and challenges with debtor countries throughout the Global South - have magnified. It's also pretty clear that Donald Trump values his personal relationship with [Chinese President] Xi Jinping and seems to have some fondness for President Xi. However, he also remembers that during his first term, many of Beijing's actions - handling of Covid, crackdown on Hong Kong protests and treatment of Uygurs - cemented frustration and mistrust in Washington. It's a very different environment than it was eight years ago. Trump seems to suggest Taiwan should pay more for its defence - or might not even be worth the US defending. What should we make of his comments and his policy towards Taiwan, which has been a thorny issue between Beijing and Washington? Trump wants every US ally and partner to spend more on its own defence. His comments are consistent with what he has said to Nato, South Korea and Taiwan specifically. He seems to be messaging that the United States can't want your security more than you do. The message is clear: the US will not do more to support Taiwan's defence and its right to exist as a democratic community than Taiwan itself is willing to do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This message is not inconsistent with what the Biden, Obama or Bush administrations conveyed to authorities in Taiwan, though they did so privately. It is challenging to convey this publicly without risking the credibility of US commitments, undermining deterrence or opening the door to misinterpretation by decision-makers in Beijing. How Trump himself feels about Taiwan is unclear. However, it is clear that he values his image as a strong leader and America's image as a strong power. My expectation is that he would perceive any aggressive move against Taiwan by Beijing as a direct challenge to him, and he would not simply let it pass. While he might not act on principle, that doesn't mean he wouldn't act. Escalating military pressure by Beijing could make Taiwan's security an issue he cares about, especially if he sees it as a test of not just America's but also his own credibility Washington signed an intelligence-sharing deal with Manila recently and plans to deploy more missiles to Japan. How would these play out in US management of tension in the Taiwan Strait during Trump's second term? All the moves we see in national security by the United States, in cooperation with allies like Japan and the Philippines, are aimed at strengthening deterrence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The issue, however, is that it's difficult for one country to show resolve without potentially signalling to the other side that it has aggressive intentions. This is what experts refer to as a "security dilemma". One side feels threatened and defensive, so any defensive measures it takes are perceived by the other side, which also feels threatened, as actions that need to be countered. This leads to mutual suspicion, fear and an escalating cycle of tension - that's the essence of the security dilemma. You can take actions to reassure your own side, but it's very challenging to do so in a way that doesn't make Beijing feel threatened. That being said, if you compare the activities of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) in the Taiwan Strait over the years - say, in 2024, compared to 2020, 2016, 2012 or 2008 - you can clearly see a sharp escalation in military threats and pressure. Given this, governments in the United States, Japan and other nations can be forgiven for thinking that Beijing is using the threat of military force to intimidate and eventually coerce or dominate Taiwan. This is unacceptable to the international community and Taiwan's security, for a variety of reasons, has now become a global concern, extending well beyond just the Asia-Pacific region. What risks do you see in the South China Sea in Trump's second term? Is there any way to avoid major conflict? The primary risk isn't necessarily the arrival of another Trump administration but rather the possibility of China testing the limits of what its neighbours and the US are willing to tolerate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There's a significant danger of accidents, miscalculations and a lack of mechanisms to prevent incidents from escalating into crises or outright conflict. Even without direct conflict, instability in the South China Sea - a vital artery for global trade - has severe economic consequences which the world can ill afford. China's use of "grey zone" tactics has escalated over the years. These include deploying vessels that appear to be coastguard ships but perform military functions like harassment and intimidation. While the Philippines has been a primary target, Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia have also faced such actions, raising the risk of a broader crisis. Avoiding conflict is possible. Many territorial disputes worldwide have been resolved or shelved. For example, [former Chinese leader] Deng Xiaoping once suggested postponing the resolution of a territorial dispute between China and Japan until a wiser generation could address it. This approach of shelving disputes or resolving them diplomatically remains viable. Moreover, adherence to international law, specifically the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), is crucial. Both China and the Philippines are signatories, and the UNCLOS tribunal has ruled that China's territorial claims in the Philippines' exclusive economic zone are invalid. This ruling undermines the legal basis for China's actions and highlights the need for it to withdraw paramilitary vessels from the area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vietnam stands out for its resolute defence of sovereignty, showing no signs of submission to Beijing. While Vietnam is unlikely to align as a US treaty ally, it will continue to safeguard its national interests. Increased pressure on countries like Vietnam and the Philippines could lead to greater resistance and potentially stronger regional unity among Southeast Asian nations, particularly those in Asean. Though countries like Laos, Cambodia and Brunei may abstain, others could form a formidable bloc, a prospect likely concerning Beijing. The credit for the "pivot to Asia" belongs to Barack Obama. It wasn't an abstract policy experiment but a recognition of the US's vital interests in the Asia-Pacific region. Obama, having spent part of his youth in Southeast Asia and Hawaii, understood the need for a strong US presence in the region. The policy emerged as a response to the overemphasis on Middle East conflicts during the Bush administration, shifting focus to the dynamic and innovative economies of East Asia. The rebalance prioritised strengthening alliances, fostering new partnerships and engaging with China's rise constructively. Obama welcomed a stable and prosperous China, provided it adhered to international norms. However, efforts to engage China were often met with frustration as the country turned increasingly authoritarian. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congress, especially under Republican control, underfunded many initiatives tied to the rebalance. A significant regret was the US' failure to finalise its participation in the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), which would have cemented American leadership in trade and regional standards. Trump's withdrawal from the TPP and his America first approach further undermined US influence, alienating allies by prioritising unilateralism over shared values. Despite this, Beijing's assertive actions have pushed countries like Japan, South Korea and others in the region closer to the US. The sustainability of US commitments remains a concern, but China's behaviour has encouraged stronger alignment with Washington. The potential of alliances like Aukus and the Quad depends on whether future administrations will invest the effort needed to realise their promise. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un said his past negotiations with the US only confirmed that Washington bore "unchangeable" hostility towards his country, and said his nuclear build-up was the only way to counter external threats. What might be the bottom line for Kim when it comes to dealing with the US? Well, first of all, North Korea's rhetoric about the US "hostile policy" has been something I've heard now for decades, not just from Kim Jong-un, but from [his father and grandfather] Kim Jong-il and Kim Il-sung as well. It's simply an alibi for why North Korea can do whatever it wants, including illegally pursuing weapons of mass destruction. The "bogeyman" image of a US hostile policy, this external threat, is a very convenient tool for domestic propaganda. It's an excuse the Kim family uses for why its promises have been broken and why its domestic policies have failed. Everything is blamed on the American hostile policy. Kim's basic bottom line is regime survival, and nuclear weapons are non-negotiable for him. The United States has been very elastic in its approach. Each of the three Kims sought a meeting with the sitting president of the United States because of the status they would gain. At the end of his term, Clinton came close to agreeing to meet Kim Jong-il but a meeting did not take place, although after leaving office he travelled to Pyongyang to gain the release of two American hostages. Kim Jong-un jumped at the opportunity to meet Donald Trump and was ready to make deals, albeit on his terms. The way to think about Kim Jong-un's ambition is that he seeks to develop his nuclear and missile systems through what's called nuclear second-strike capability. Essentially, he wants to make his arsenal large and diversified enough that he feels the US cannot risk retaliating against North Korea for any act of aggression. Even if the US decided to launch a punitive strike against North Korea, it would know that some of Kim's missiles would survive and have the ability to strike the US after Pyongyang is wiped out. That's what second-strike capability is. If Kim can reach a point where he believes he can act with relative impunity, where he feels that the US deterrent has been neutralised, I think, ironically, he'll want to negotiate. But these negotiations will be strictly on his terms. He will want to negotiate the reduction of US forces in Asia, not the reduction of his nuclear stockpile. We've already seen the results of Trump's experiment with diplomacy, and it proved that North Korea is absolutely determined to retain and expand its nuclear programme. What that means for the rest of the world is that the only realistic options are to bolster defence against North Korea and to strengthen deterrence so that North Korea never decides it's safe to commit aggression. As for the possibility of a world war involving Korea, nobody wants a nuclear war. I tend to think the probability of war is low, but it's not zero. There is a significant risk of miscalculation by Kim Jong-un that could lead to a crisis that spirals out of control. There can be no effective restraint on Kim Jong-un without US-China collaboration - absolutely impossible. If the Ukraine war truly could be ended as quickly as Trump says, how would this play out in relation to North Korea and China? That's pretty far out of my area of expertise, but I think Trump's claim that he could end the war in a day, or on his first day, is highly implausible. If he could somehow get President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine to surrender, maybe it would happen, but he can't. That said, the withdrawal of US military and financial support to Ukraine would cause a lot more death and suffering for the victims of Russia's aggression. It's conceivable that Trump as the US president could engineer a ceasefire in place, but the concern is that this would only buy time for Russian forces to recover, regroup, and launch a more powerful assault against Ukraine. Putin has made clear that his goal is not just to peel off a few pieces of Ukrainian territory but to dominate and subjugate the entire nation. Right now, the war is not going well for Putin - thousands of Russians are being killed. If you have to turn to North Korea for soldiers to fight your war, it shows that your military is not doing well. Putin's aggression against Ukraine has put Beijing in a terrible position. Respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of a sovereign nation, a UN member, is a very fundamental principle for the [People's Republic of China], and there's just no way of viewing Putin's attack as anything other than a violation of that principle. From the very beginning, Beijing has been in an impossible situation - unable to really help Moscow, but unwilling to not help. So it's the worst of both worlds, and Beijing has lost immense credibility with Europe. It's hard to see how the Chinese government could use its strategic leverage with Moscow in concert with Europe and the United States to help broker a durable settlement. Unfortunately, I don't think the prospects for a durable resolution of the war in Ukraine look good any time soon. Russia and North Korea are becoming closer allies, with Putin bringing North Koreans in to fight for Moscow in the Ukraine war. How much influence does China still have in the Korean peninsula? How would the changing dynamics affect Japan and South Korea's ties with China? The only two people who benefit from the enhanced relationship between North Korea and Moscow are Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un. Everyone else is a loser, including China, the US and the rest of the world. From my experience, Beijing has always been very reluctant to use its leverage over North Korea, even though it has tremendous leverage. This reluctance has resulted in Beijing having very little influence. You only have influence if the other side believes in you or believes that you're willing to use it. Pyongyang has always tried to play Moscow and Beijing off against each other, but it's never been particularly successful - until now. Now, the situation has changed. First, Russia desperately needs help. Putin isn't paying North Korean mercenaries because the war in Ukraine is going well, but it is because he is desperate. Second, Pyongyang has become more successful because China's relationship with the United States is so poor. The US and China are finding it impossible to coordinate or cooperate, and these two factors have made North Korea much more powerful in terms of its ability to manipulate major powers. There's no question that an empowered North Korea hurts Beijing's interests. It dramatically raises risks, complicates China's foreign policy, and undermines regional stability. It also drives Japan and South Korea closer together and fosters more trilateral security cooperation. Furthermore, it encourages European involvement in the Asia-Pacific region, which is the last thing Beijing wants. The Moscow-Pyongyang connection creates serious complexities for China. It risks dragging China into conflicts that it doesn't want to be involved in and has badly damaged China's relationship with Europe. At a minimum, this association saddles China with reputational costs, without any tangible benefits. Beijing is not profiting in any way. In the end, China seems stuck in this association with Moscow and Pyongyang, but is clearly on the losing end of this equation. How much influence could Elon Musk have on US China policy? Will he help generate new, game-changing momentum in the space race between the two countries? That's an interesting question, and honestly, I'm not sure I'm the right person to answer it. Elon Musk has certainly achieved phenomenal success, especially in space. We have to give him immense credit for his innovation and technological expertise, not just in space but across many fields. His work has been truly impressive. We're in a complicated time because, in some ways, the private sector is outpacing governments in space technology. This is also true for other emerging tech sectors. The old pattern of military inventions flowing to the commercial sector is no longer the case; now, innovation is often coming from private companies and labs. As for how much influence Elon Musk will have, or how he might interact with the Trump administration, it's hard to predict. In US politics, there's a saying: "The United States only has one president at a time." This typically applies to the transition period when the president-elect Donald Trump doesn't take office until January 20, and until then, President Joe Biden is in charge. I think that saying could apply to the relationship between Trump and Musk as well. Both are huge figures, but only one can hold the presidential office. I suspect they both feel equally qualified, and maybe, over time, the pressure will be too much, and Trump and Musk will go their separate ways. But again, it's really anyone's guess. 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 2025 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved. Copyright (c) 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved. Military installations across the country are increasing security measures and suspending certain base visiting privileges following attacks by one current and one former service member last week in New Orleans and Las Vegas. Bases on Friday began announcing the suspension of the Trusted Traveler Program -- an initiative that allows vetted Defense Department personnel to bring people in their vehicle through installation gates and onto bases. The move to suspend the program until further notice was ordered by U.S. Northern Command and applies to all bases, facilities and units in North America, including Alaska, within its area of responsibility. "Drivers should expect delays and random inspections at entry gates as we enhance the security posture of our installation to ensure our ability to project combat power when and where required," a notice from Marine Corps Base Quantico said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read Next: Green Beret in Las Vegas Bombing and New Orleans Attacker Had Brief Overlap in Military Careers Various bases across the country also announced there would be random inspections and 100% identification checks as well. The Trusted Traveler Program applied to Defense Department identification card holders -- such as Common Access Cards or Defense Biometric Identification System cards -- and allowed them to escort people onto base. Now, those without those identification cards will be required to obtain a base pass from an installation's visitor center to get past the security gates. The Trusted Traveler Program cut through that paperwork and allowed traffic to move more steadily in front of installations. "The increased force protection measures directed by USNORTHCOM are a prudent measure to ensure the safety and security of our installations and personnel," Maj. Jennifer Staton, a Department of Defense spokesperson, told Military.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is not clear how suspending the Trusted Traveler Program is connected to the ongoing investigations into the New Orleans and Las Vegas attacks. Both men would have likely been able to access military bases given their current and former service. Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a former Army soldier, drove a rented truck onto Bourbon Street in New Orleans and killed 14 people before being killed by police. Master Sgt. Matthew Livelsberger, an Army Green Beret, detonated a Tesla Cybertruck in front of the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada, injuring seven bystanders. He died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound inside the vehicle prior to the explosion, law enforcement officials announced. Both their New Year's Day attacks were seemingly uncoordinated. Military.com reported that Livelsberger left a note following his attack calling his actions a "wake-up call" for the country. Jabbar flew an Islamic State terrorist group flag from the truck he used in his deadly rampage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Staton told Military.com that the Department of Defense was "not aware of any threats to installations at this time." Retired Air Force Col. John Probst, a former Security Forces officer and the executive director of the nonprofit Air Force Security Forces Association, told Military.com in an interview Monday that suspension of the Trusted Traveler Program in the wake of those New Year's Day attacks helps commanders know who is on theirF base and ensures more scrutiny overall. But Probst added the measure also signals to potential attackers that things are no longer routine, and are more uniform across all bases. "If you've got bad actors out there and they see that one person only showing an ID and, now, next week, everybody's showing an ID and every 10th car gets opened up and they look in the trunk and under the hood, the signal you're sending is it's not the same as it was yesterday," Probst told Military.com. "There's more alertness being paid to those coming and going, and you never know who's watching." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Northern Command has not said when the Trusted Traveler Program might return or when security measures may become less restrictive. Related: Green Beret Who Detonated Cybertruck Left Note Calling Attack a 'Wake-Up Call' (Reuters) - Turkey has launched an investigation into an opposition mayor's comments about Syrians, including his claims that he unlawfully revoked some of their business licences in his northwestern district of Bolu. Mayor Tanju Ozcan talked about the measures he said he took against Syrian residents of his district on a news programme that aired on Saturday, including the removal of Arabic language business signs and the revocations of business licenses. Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc said on Sunday that the Bolu Chief Public Prosecutor's Office "opened an investigation into the Bolu Mayor over his remarks regarding Syrians in our country." He did not specify the remarks being probed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Ozcan, of the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP), said on Sunday on social media website X "I said and did what I did regarding the refugees, taking the consequences into consideration. I am ready to pay the price for this." In his comments on the news programme on Saturday he said the Syrians he targeted "might have won" had they challenged his moves in the administrative court. Syrians have faced bouts of anti-migrant sentiment and even violence in Turkey in recent years. More than 3 million Syrians migrated to neighbouring Turkey after the outbreak of civil war in Syria 13 years ago. A rebellion last month ousted former president Bashar al-Assad from Damascus, leading to a rise in those returning home. (Reporting by Canan Sevgili; Editing by Jonathan Spicer, Daren Butler and Christian Schmollinger) BLOOMINGTON, Ill (WMBD) Two Bloomington men have been arrested after one of them allegedly accidentally shot himself. The Bloomington Police Department were called to the 2200 block of Rainbow Avenue at 7:16 a.m. on Saturday, Jan 4. to reports of gunfire, when police arrived they saw 19-year-old Jayme L. Weaver who was allegedly holding a handgun with a defaced serial number, said officer Bryce Janssen. In a nearby apartment, police found 18-year-old Daniel L. Davis with an alleged non-life-threatening, self-inflicted gunshot wound he allegedly sustained while handling the same firearm, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two indicted in connection with Feb. 20 Bartonville shooting Davis was taken to the hospital to receive treatment before being taken to the McLean County Jail, he said. When police found Weaver, he was allegedly trying to remove the weapon from the house. Weaver and Davis, both of Bloomington, were arrested on a slew of charges, including possession of a handgun under 21 and possession of a firearm with a defaced serial number, Janssen said. As of Monday afternoon, both men were still being held in custody at the jail, he said. The shooting is still under investigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. LHOKSEUMAWE, Indonesia (AP) More than 260 weak and hungry Rohingya refugees, mostly women and children, have landed in Indonesia in two boats, officials said Monday. Police and military officers are working with the U.N. refugee agency and the local government in West Pereulak in East Aceh to gather more information about the refugees, who arrived Sunday evening, and keep them safe, East Aceh police chief Nova Suryandaru said. We will follow up their presence by coordinating with the UNHCR for further action, Suryandaru said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 300 Rohingya refugees have landed in East Aceh since last February. About 1 million Rohingya, who are predominantly Muslim, are living in camps in Bangladesh after leaving Myanmar. They include about 740,000 who fled a brutal clearance campaign in 2017 by Myanmars security forces, who were accused of committing mass rapes and killings. The Rohingya minority face widespread discrimination in Myanmar and most are denied citizenship. Indonesia has appealed for help from the international community following a sharp rise in the number of Rohingya leaving the overcrowded refugee camps in Bangladesh since last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indonesia, like nearby Thailand and Malaysia, is not a signatory to the United Nations 1951 Refugee Convention and is not obligated to accept them. However, the country generally provides temporary shelter to refugees in distress. On Saturday, Malaysian authorities said they turned away two boats carrying nearly 300 Rohingya refugees attempting to enter the country illegally. The Maritime Enforcement Agency reported two more boats were trying to enter after 196 Rohingya landed Friday in the northeastern resort island of Langkawi, where they were detained. ___ Tarigan reported from Jakarta, Indonesia. UPPER WEST SIDE, Manhattan (PIX11) Two teenagers were shot inside an Upper West Side bodega on Sunday, sources told PIX11 News. It happened on Amsterdam Avenue between 91st and 92nd streets around 7:45 p.m., according to authorities. A 17-year-old boy was shot in the foot, while another 17-year-old boy had gunshot wounds to his stomach, police said. More Crime News Sources said the suspect was wearing a black jacket and black sweats. They fled the bodega toward Columbus Avenue, according to sources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its unclear what the motive is in the shooting. Both victims were taken to NewYorkPresbyterian Hospital, police said. Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). Erin Pflaumer is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered both local and national news since 2018. She joined PIX11 in 2023. See more of her work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Two people from Idaho driving a stolen car have been arrested in Centralia after trying to sell guns and drugs. Around noon on Jan. 3, Centralia police got calls about three people trying to sell firearms and drugs. Police used the Flock Safety Cameras to search for the suspects car and developed a suspicion that it may have been stolen. Police said the car was stolen after a carjacking in Meridian, Idaho. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After police confirmed that the car was stolen, they went undercover and convinced the suspects that they could sell the guns and drugs. A 23-year-old man and woman from Idaho returned only to be arrested during a traffic stop. With a search warrant in hand, police searched the car and found two semi-automatic rifles, a shotgun, 3 handguns and one ghost gun. Police said they also found ammunition, a large quantity of marijuana and other narcotics in the car. Both were taken to Lewis County Jail on suspicion of possession of a stolen car, possession of a stolen firearm and conspiracy to deliver a controlled substance. The man may face additional charges for gun possession since he is a felon. Two Chicago men were charged with multiple felonies and misdemeanors for a theft at a Jewel-Osco grocery store in Wilmette on New Years Eve, according to the Wilmette Police Department. The two men, identified as Tyshon McClure, 24, of the 5800 block of West Division Street, Chicago, and Burt Robinson Jr., 28, of the 1000 block of North Lamon Avenue, Chicago, are charged with robbing a Jewel-Osco grocery store at 411 Green Bay Road in Wilmette around 12:54 p.m. on Dec. 31, 2024, and injuring two Jewel-Osco employees in the process. According to Wilmette police, an officer located McClure and Robinson in a vehicle with two other passengers in the 1600 block of Wilmette Avenue after the robbery. Police attempted to pull over the vehicle, but the suspects fled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wilmette investigators later found the vehicle in Northfield on Meadowview Road just west of Hibbard Road. Two of the vehicles occupants were arrested near the vehicle, and McClure and Robinson attempted to flee again. With assistance from the Northbrook, Glencoe, Kenilworth and Northfield police departments, Wilmette police were able to find McClure and Robinson. A drone and a K9 were used in the search, per Wilmette police. The two unnamed occupants arrested near the vehicle were not charged with a crime. One of the men charged in the incident was later identified as an offender from a previous robbery at the same grocery store, and charged with that robbery and several other robberies in Westchester and Hillside, according to police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McClure is charged with: robbery, retail theft, more than $300; aggravated fleeing; resisting a peace officer; and driving on a suspended license, according to a news release. Robinson is charged with: robbery; retail theft, more than $300; three counts of aggravated battery; resisting a peace officer; and a warrant for another incident. Robinsons preliminary hearing is scheduled for Jan. 17 at the Skokie Courthouse and McClure had his initial hearing on Jan. 2, per Cook County Circuit Court records. An arrest does not constitute a finding of guilt. HUSTISFORD, Wis. (WFRV) Authorities in Wisconsin say the driver of a UTV was arrested for their first OWI offense after the UTV and two people went through the ice while driving on a lake Sunday evening. According to a release from the Dodge County Sheriffs Office, deputies responded at 5:00 p.m. to Sinissippi Lake in the Town of Hustisford for reports that a UTV had gone through the ice. Officials say the UTV, a 2024 Polaris, was heading north while traveling on Sinissippi Lake when it went through the ice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police arrest suspect of Green Bay hit-and-run that left five people hurt Two people, along with the UTV, were safely rescued from the ice in a collaborative effort from the Hustisford Fire Department and the Dodge County Sheriffs Office. The passenger of the UTV, a 46-year-old man from Hustisford, was not hurt in the incident and was released at the scene. The driver of the UTV, 45-year-old Adam C. Malterer was arrested for his first OWI offense and was taken to the Aurora Medical Center as a precaution before later being released. No other information is available at this time. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Lawmakers Jose Pereira Coutinho and Ella Lei have urged the new government, led by Sam Hou Fai, to update the salaries of Civil Servants. The two lawmakers, who represent the Macao Public Servants Association (ATFPM) and the Macau Federation of Trade Unions (FAOM), have expressed in comments made to the public broadcaster TDM that the new government should prioritize the salary update in its policies for 2025. While Ella Lei did not specify a figure on how much the salaries should grow, Coutinho reaffirmed the figure of about 3%, which he had previously mentioned at the Legislative Assembly (AL) when discussing the 2025 budget with former Secretary Lei Wai Nong. At the time, the lawmaker, who represents the interests of civil servants, called for an update of the Civil Servants Salary Index from the current 94 patacas per index point to 97 patacas. In their statements, the two lawmakers noted that the government should follow the example set last week by the gaming concessionaire Sands China Ltd (SCL), which announced increases in the salaries of their workers to take effect in March this year. They both stated that it is hoped that the other five concessionaires will follow the example of SCL and increase salaries for all their staff. During the AL discussion over the 2025 budget, the outgoing Secretary for Economy and Finance responded to the call by saying, This budget is not for the current government but for the next. Its a basic budget to ensure the payment of contracted expenses and the normal functioning of services. Lei Wai Nong remarked that if the new government sees that there is a possibility to increase the benefits for civil servants or the population in general, they can do so by presenting an amendment to the approved budget. On the topic, Coutinho said that he now hopes that when, in March this year, the government presents the Policy Address for 2025, the salary updates for the government workers will already be part of these policies and calculated, budgeted, and ready for implementation. He noted this to be a matter of justice, as the price increases have been causing a successive loss of purchasing power for the population in Macau. So far, only SCL has announced salary increases for 2025. SCL pay adjustments vary by income level, with lower-salaried staff (below MOP16,000/month) receiving a higher percentage increase, while those earning wages above MOP16,000 will see their salaries increase at a fixed percentage of 2.5%. These adjustments apply to all the workers under SCL-owned properties, which include not only the casinos but also the hotels, stores, and food and beverage outlets, among others. For her part, Ella Lei said that the salary update is necessary, especially for those government workers who earn lower salaries. The same FAOM lawmaker also noted that attention is needed for the private sector, in which many workers have even seen their salaries reduced. She cited examples of workers in restaurants and food and beverage establishments, construction, and real estate and property management. Ella Lei noted that currently, many workers have not yet recovered to the salary levels they had before the pandemic. She remarked that the previous government had systematically analyzed the labor market situation just through the unemployment rate, which, she said, is not the only factor to take into account. NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAVY) Monday, Jan. 6 marks two years since first-grade teacher Abby Zwerner was shot by a 6-year-old student at Richneck Elementary School in Newport News. Complete Coverage: Richneck Elementary School Shooting The incident at the time sparked national conversation about security at schools, and two years later, the criminal and civil sides of the case remain ongoing. Just last month, in early December, a judge ruled that the former assistant principal at the school, Dr. Ebony Parker, can be requestioned as part of the $40 million civil suit surrounding the 2023 shooting. 10 On Your Side has been told the criminal trial against Parker will happen before the civil trial, which is against the school system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former assistant principal can be requestioned as part of Richneck Elementary school shooting lawsuit Throughout the process, Zwerners legal team has expressed frustration over how long the court process is taking, but they said they plan to continue to pursue it with the same vigor. The One In Five Foundation for Kids, a national nonprofit organization formed after the May 2022 mass shooting at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, announced on Monday they are preparing an official address and petition to the court, as part of their continued support of Zwerner. Uvalde Foundation recognizes NNPD for response to shooting at Richneck Elementary School Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parkers criminal trial is set to take place in February of 2025, and the civil trial is expected to take place in October of 2025. Continue to check WAVY.com for updates. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The pilot of a fast-moving Etihad Airways passenger jet slammed on the emergency brakes moments before take-off in Australia due to technical problems, news reports said on Monday. No one was harmed in Sunday evening's incident at Melbourne Airport. Despite reportedly reaching a speed of at least 200 kilometres per hour, the pilot successfully halted the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, local media reported, citing the Abu Dhabi-based airline. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two tyres burst during the manoeuvre, causing smoke to come out from under the aircraft and triggering nervousness among the 289 passengers, reports said. It was "the most terrifying moment in my life," Australia's 9News channel quoted one man as saying. "We were sure we were about to die." The plane had been due to fly from Melbourne to the United Arab Emirates capital Abu Dhabi. Etihad apologized to those on board, and emphasized that the safety of the passengers and crew always took top priority. Passengers praised the calm and level-headed behaviour of the airline staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photos and videos circulated on the internet showed fire engines rushing to the aircraft. As it was initially difficult to remove it due to the damage, the airport had to manage with just one runway until the morning, which resulted in flight delays. NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) United States Attorney Vanessa Roberts Avery is resigning from her post serving Connecticut, her office announced Monday. Her resignation will be effective at 11:59 p.m. on Jan. 17. Official says Canadas Trudeau is set to resign as party leader She was appointed by President Joe Biden and after Senate confirmation, sworn in as the 54th U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut in May of 2022. Avery was the first Black woman to serve as district attorney of Connecticut. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as United States Attorney, and I am profoundly appreciative of President Biden for trusting me to serve our nation and the people of Connecticut in this position, Avery said in a statement Monday. I have been especially honored to lead an office of extremely talented public servants who are dedicated to the highest standards of excellence and professionalism and committed to the cause of justice. Together, we have employed collaborative, data and intelligence-driven strategies to make our communities safer and ensure justice for all who live in our state. We have done the hard work of engaging the community alongside our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners, contributing to declining violent crime rates and opioid overdose deaths. I am confident that this Office will continue to make Connecticut a safe place to live, and have a positive impact in our communities, she continued. Former Connecticut Gov. Jodi Rell dies at 78 According to her office, Avery led the U.S. Attorneys Office to prioritize the prosecution of crimes related to gun and gang violence, firearms trafficking, narcotics, child exploitation, and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prior to being U.S. attorney, Avery worked as the associate attorney general and chief of the Division of Enforcement and Public Protection at the Connecticut office of the attorney general. She was also an assistant U.S. attorney in the Civil Division from 2014 to 2019 and over the years prior, worked as a litigation attorney and trial attorney, among other things. Shes a graduate of Yale University and the Georgetown University Law Center. Marc H. Silverman will serve as acting U.S. attorney after Averys departure, according to the office. Silverman- a graduate of Yale University and Yale Law School- has served as first assistant U.S. attorney since May 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Attorneys Office is in excellent hands, Avery said. Marc and the Offices superb supervisory team have the highest professional and ethical standards and, together with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners will ensure that the administration of justice will seamlessly continue in our District. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer hit back at Elon Musk on Monday after the world's richest man repeatedly lobbed a host of inflammatory allegations at the country's leader over his government's record on a long-running national child grooming scandal. Musk has accused the United Kingdom leader of being "complicit in the rape of Britain" on his X platform and has repeatedly elevated claims without evidence that Starmer knowingly refused to prosecute child groomers when he was the country's top lawyer. EPSOM, ENGLAND - JANUARY 06: U.K. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer answers questions from the media. The prime minister defended his record after tech billionaire Elon Musk made several allegations about the U.K. government's handling of historic child sex abuses in the country. / Credit: LEON NEAL / Getty Images Throughout the past 48 hours alone, Musk has called for Starmer to be imprisoned and posted a poll to his X followers posing the question as to whether "America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the British leader did not name Musk directly, he widely condemned what he said was the spread of false information. "Those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible, they're not interested in victims. They're interested in themselves," Starmer said, addressing reporters at a news conference Monday. Musk's barbs are in reference to a years-long scandal in Britain over the state's response to child sexual exploitation and grooming gangs, mostly consisting of Pakistani men, who targeted vulnerable young girls in multiple towns across northern England. A 2014 government-commissioned report found that some 1,400 vulnerable children were targeted and sexually abused in the town of Rotherham the largest specific case of child grooming in the country between 1997 and 2013. The report detailed how children as young as 11 years old were subject to trafficking, rape and other forms of physical assault. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That report was heavily critical of "the collective failures of political and officer leadership" and said that "growing evidence that child sexual exploitation was a serious problem in Rotherham" was ignored and even suppressed by authorities. Starmer served as director of public prosecutions between 2008 and 2013, a role that in practice made him the top prosecutor in the country when the child grooming scandals came to light. On Monday, Starmer vigorously defended his prosecutorial record. "I brought the first major prosecution of an Asian grooming gang in this particular case it was the first of its kind. We changed, or I changed, the whole prosecution approach, because I wanted to challenge, and did challenge, the myths and stereotypes that were stopping those victims being heard," the prime minister said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "When I left office, we had the highest number of child sexual abuse cases being prosecuted on record," Starmer added. A 2013 British parliamentary report praised Starmer's handling of child sexual exploitation and grooming gangs. "Mr. Starmer has striven to improve the treatment of victims of sexual assault within the criminal justice system throughout his term as Director of Public Prosecution.. his response should provide a model to the other agencies involved in tackling localized grooming," the report said. Starmer, who took office following Labour's sweeping election victory last summer, has been thus far resistant to pressure from critics to launch a new national review into such historic child sexual abuses, saying that plenty of reviews at a national and local level have already been conducted on the matter. Elon Musk greets President-elect Donald Trump as he arrives to attend a viewing of a SpaceX Starship rocket launch on Nov. 19, 2024 in Brownsville, Texas. / Credit: Brandon Bell/Getty Images Responding to those comments from this morning, Musk posted on X that the "real reason" that Starmer is not conducting a national review is because it would "show how Starmer repeatedly ignored the pleas of vast numbers of little girls and their parents, in order to secure political support." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk, a key advisor to President-elect Donald Trump, has been embroiled in a feud with Starmer's center-left Labour government since far-right rioters wrought chaos across the United Kingdom last summer. Musk at that time called Britain a "police state" after Starmer's government aggressively prosecuted those involved in the riots. Over the course of this past week, Musk has also advocated for the release of the far-right activist Tommy Robinson, a central figure in shaping last summer's violence. Robinson whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon is a longtime far-right agitator who led the English Defense League, a group that U.K. police authorities linked to the original violent protest that sparked riots across the country in August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Robinson is currently serving an 18-month prison sentence for contempt of court. The very public spat with the British government is just the latest of a series of interventions by Musk into the domestic politics of key U.S. allies in Europe. In an op-ed for German outlet Welt am Sonntag published last month, Musk publicly endorsed the far-right, anti-immigrant AfD party in the country's upcoming elections in February. "The Alternative for Germany (AfD) is the last spark of hope for this country," Musk wrote in his translated commentary. European leaders have been vocally critical of the tech billionaire's meddling and have publicly expressed concern about Musk's influence considering his ownership of the X platform. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday said that Musk is intervening directly in Germany's affairs. "Ten years ago, who could have imagined it if we had been told that the owner of one of the largest social networks in the world would support a new international reactionary movement and intervene directly in elections, including in Germany," Macron said in a wide-ranging foreign policy speech. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere also said on Monday that Musk's influence was concerning. "I find it worrying that a man with enormous access to social media and huge economic resources involves himself so directly in the internal affairs of other countries," Stoere told Norwegian public broadcaster NRK, according to the Reuters news agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is not the way things should be between democracies and allies," Store reportedly said. Massive winter storm expected to bring heavy snow, ice, cold to 25 states How Oakland's Creative Growth enabled generations of artists Rise and shine with sunrise photographer Bugsy Sailor A worker leaves U.S. Steel Edgar Thomson Steel Works, March 10, 2018 in Braddock, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images) U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel on Monday filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government over President Joe Bidens order blocking the sale of the Pittsburgh-based steel company to the Japanese firm. The lawsuit filed in the U.S. Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C. asks the court to set aside the review process of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the U.S. (CFIUS) and Bidens order blocking the deal over security concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a joint statement the companies accused Biden and the government of violating due process and playing politics, claiming the president ignored the rule of law to gain favor with the United Steelworkers union (USW), which had opposed the sale. As a result of President Bidens undue influence to advance his political agenda, the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS or the Committee) failed to conduct a good faith, national security-focused regulatory review process, depriving Nippon Steel and U. S. Steel of their rightful opportunity for fair consideration of the Transaction, the statement reads. Biden had long expressed his opposition to the deal, saying U.S. Steel should remain a domestically owned and operated company. The White House in December called for serious scrutiny of the $14.9 billion deal. President-elect Donald Trump has also said he would block the deal. We need major U.S. companies representing the major share of US steelmaking capacity to keep leading the fight on behalf of Americas national interests, Biden said in a Friday statement. As a committee of national security and trade experts across the executive branch determined, this acquisition would place one of Americas largest steel producers under foreign control and create risk for our national security and our critical supply chains. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The companies argue the presidents early comments about the proposed deal, first announced in December 2023, unduly influenced the CFIUS review. They are asking CFIUS to conduct a new review of the deal. Also on Monday, U.S. Steel and Nippon filed a motion for a preliminary injunction in U.S. District Court in Western Pennsylvania, accusing the CEO of rival steelmaker Cleveland Cliffs Lourenco Goncalves and USW President David McCall for engaging in a coordinated series of anticompetitive and racketeering activities illegally designed to prevent any party other than Cliffs from acquiring U. S. Steel as part of an illegal campaign to monopolize critical domestic steel markets. In a statement Monday, Goncalves blasted the companies for the lawsuits. As of this morning, Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel continue to play the blame game in a desperate attempt to distract from their own failures. Todays lawsuits against the U.S. Government, the USW, and Cleveland-Cliffs represent a shameless effort to scapegoat others for U.S. Steels and Nippon Steels self-inflicted disaster, he said. U.S. Steels executives did not get their personal payouts. Now that it is clear that they have miserably failed the very shareholders they always say they work for, they are lashing out with petulance as a result. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement USW did not immediately reply to a request for comment on Monday. Reuters reported on Sunday that Goncalves had cast doubt on the deal several times during calls with investors. Cleveland-Cliffs made a failed bid to acquire U.S. Steel in August 2023. This story was updated Jan. 6, 2025 at 1:40 p.m. with comment from Goncalves Editors note: This story is available as a result of a content partnership between WFTV and the Orlando Business Journal. The University of Central Floridas Lunar Vulkan Imaging and Spectroscopy Explorer (Lunar-VISE) payload is hitching a ride with Firefly Aerospace in 2028 for a science and exploration operation aimed at analyzing the Gruithuisen Domes on the near side of the moon. The multi-instrument payload, built by BAE Systems and Arizona State University, will gather data on the moons surface over the period of 10 Earth days. That investigation will focus on how silica-rich volcanic features are formed in an effort to understand geologic processes of early planetary bodies and how those may be used as a resource in future exploration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read: Storms possible Monday as Central Florida prepares for cold week Lunar-VISE consists of two stationary and three mobile instruments used to study rocks and regoliths on the summit of one of the domes. The payload is expected to undergo a system integration and acceptance reviews check in August as a final step in ensuring all components are suitable and safe for intended operations. Click here to read the full story on the Orlando Business Journals website. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. NAIROBI (Reuters) - The head of Uganda's military, who is also the son of longstanding President Yoweri Museveni, said he wanted to behead the country's most prominent opposition leader. Muhoozi Kainerugaba is widely believed to be the heir apparent to his father, who has governed Uganda since 1986. Kainerugaba routinely makes inflammatory posts on social media, including a threat in 2022 to invade neighbouring Kenya. Kainerugaba later apologised for that threat and sometimes says that certain posts are meant ironically. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a post on X on Sunday evening, Kainerugaba said his father, whom he referred to by the honorific Mzee, was the only person protecting opposition leader Bobi Wine from him. "If Mzee was not there, I would cut off his head today," Kainerugaba posted. Bobi Wine, whose legal name is Robert Kyagulanyi and who finished second to Museveni in the 2021 presidential election, responded on X that he did not take the threat lightly, saying there had been several previous attempts on his life. Kainerugaba responded: "Finally! I woke you up? Before I behead you, repay us the money we loaned you," suggesting the government had previously bought off Wine to undermine the opposition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spokespeople for the government and Kainerugaba were not immediately reachable for comment. A spokesperson for the armed forces declined to comment. The government spokesperson has previously said Kainerugaba's social media posts should be understood as "casual" comments and not taken seriously or as reflecting government policy. Wine, a popular musician turned politician has parlayed his star power into a career as Museveni's most formidable challenger. He rejected the results of the 2021 election, alleging ballot stuffing and intimidation. Human rights activists have also accused Museveni's government of widespread human rights abuses, including torture and arbitrary detention. Uganda's government has repeatedly denied allegations of election fraud and human rights abuses. (Editing by Aaron Ross and Toby Chopra) LONDON (AP) British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday condemned lies and misinformation that he said are undermining U.K. democracy, in response to a barrage of attacks on his government from Elon Musk. The billionaire Tesla CEO has taken an intense and erratic interest in British politics since the center-left Labour Party was elected in July. Musk has used his social network, X, to call for a new election and demand Starmer be imprisoned. On Monday he posted an online poll for his 210 million followers on the proposition: America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government. Asked about Musks comments during a question session at a hospital near London, Starmer criticized those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible, particularly opposition Conservative politicians in Britain who have echoed some of Musks claims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk often posts on X about the U.K., retweeting criticism of Starmer and the hashtag TwoTierKeir - shorthand for an unsubstantiated claim that Britain has two-tier policing with far-right protesters treated more harshly than pro-Palestinian or Black Lives Matter demonstrators. During summer anti-immigrant violence across the U.K. he tweeted that civil war is inevitable." Recently Musk has focused on child sexual abuse, particularly a series of cases that rocked northern England towns in which groups of men, largely from Pakistani backgrounds, were tried for grooming and abusing dozens of girls. The cases have been used by far-right activists to link child abuse to immigration, and to accuse politicians of covering up the grooming gangs out of a fear of appearing racist. Musk has posted a demand for a new public inquiry into the cases. A huge, seven-year inquiry was held under the previous Conservative government, though many of the 20 recommendations it made in 2022 including compensation for abuse victims have yet to be implemented. Starmer's government said it would act on them as quickly as possible. Musk also has accused Starmer of failing to bring perpetrators to justice when he was England's director of public prosecutions between 2008 and 2013. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmer defended his record as chief prosecutor, saying he had reopened closed cases and changed the whole prosecution approach to child sexual exploitation. He also condemned language used by Musk about Jess Phillips, a government minister responsible for combating violence against women and girls. Musk called Phillips a rape genocide apologist and said she deserved to be in prison. When the poison of the far-right leads to serious threats to Jess Phillips and others, then in my book, a line has been crossed, Starmer said. I enjoy the cut and thrust of politics, the robust debate that we must have, but thats got to be based on facts and truth, not on lies. Musk has also called for the release of Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, a far-right activist who goes by the name Tommy Robinson and is serving a prison sentence for contempt of court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmer said people "cheerleading Tommy Robinson are trying to get some vicarious thrill from street violence that people like Tommy Robinson promote. Starmer largely avoided mentioning Musk by name in his responses, likely wary of giving him more of a spotlight or of angering Musk ally Donald Trump, who is due to be inaugurated as U.S. president on Jan. 20. Musk's incendiary interventions are a growing worry for governments elsewhere in Europe, too. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, another target of the X owner's ire, said he is staying cool over critical personal comments made by Musk, but finds it worrying that the U.S. billionaire makes the effort to get involved in Germany's election by endorsing the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Starmer said the main issue was not Musk's posts on X, but what are politicians here doing to stand up for our democracy? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said he was concerned about Conservative politicians in Britain so desperate for attention they are amplifying what the far right are saying. Once we lose the anchor that truth matters then we are on a very slippery slope, he said. While some Conservatives, including party leader Kemi Badenoch, have echoed Musks points, the main U.K. beneficiary of his interest has been Reform U.K., the hard-right party led by Nigel Farage that has just five seats in the 650-seat House of Commons but big expansion plans. Farage said last month that Musk was considering making a multimillion-dollar donation to the party. But Farage is critical of Tommy Robinson, refusing to let him join Reform, and on Sunday Musk posted: The Reform Party needs a new leader. Farage doesnt have what it takes. Farage tweeted in response: Well, this is a surprise! Elon is a remarkable individual but on this I am afraid I disagree. Elon Musks tirade against the British government has been met with a robust response from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. During a press conference in the past half hour, Starmer said the X chief and others recent obsession with last decades child grooming gangs saga is nothing but whipping up of intimidation and threats of violence, hoping the media will amplify it. More from Deadline Musk has been spreading conspiracies across the weekend on his social media platform including labeling one of Starmers ministers, Jess Phillips, a rape genocide apologist. In a series of posts on X, he then called for Starmer to face jail time over how child grooming gangs were dealt with when Starmer was Director of Public Prosecutions last decade and posted a yes-no poll with the statement: America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im prepared to call this out for what it is, said Starmer, who has been under some pressure to respond. Those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible theyre not interested in victims, theyre interested in themselves. While not mentioning Musk by name, he added: Jess [Phillips] does not need me or anyone else to speak on her behalf but when the poison of the far-right leads to serious threats to Jess Phillips and others then in my book a line has been crossed. While he enjoys the cut and thrust of politics, Starmer said this has got to be based on facts and truths, not lies and on those who are so desperate for attention that they are prepared to debase themselves and their country. His intervention comes with Donald Trump, who Musk has become incredibly close with over the past few months, set to move back into the White House in just a fortnights time. Musk will lead a new Department of Government Efficiency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musks wade into an old British row over grooming gangs has also set him on a collision course with Nigel Farage, another Trump ally and the leader of Reform UK. While Musk and Farage were initially close, and Musk was expected to donate millions to Farages party, the pair have now had something of a fallout over Musks support for far-right UK activist Tommy Robinson, who is currently in prison over contempt of court. Musk called for a new Reform UK leader because Farage doesnt have what it takes. Farage responded: Well, this is a surprise! Elon is a remarkable individual but on this I am afraid I disagree. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. * Ratatouille An infestation has led to the temporary closure of three Royal supermarket branches and a restaurant, following viral footage that depicts rodents feeding in the supermarkets freezer * Centaline | Property market set for stability and recovery this year * Crime | Trio arrested for counterfeit casino chip fraud in Cotai * Lawmakers Jose Pereira Coutinho and Ella Lei have urged the new government, led by Sam Hou Fai, to update the salaries of civil servants * LRT sees significant surge in passenger numbers after opening of Hengqin line * Ukraine will ask allies to boost its air defenses at a meeting in Germany, Zelenskyy says DOWNLOAD PDF Monday, January 6, 2025 edition no. 4635 British Prime Minister Keir Starmer slammed Elon Musk on Monday for spreading lies and misinformation about his left-leaning government after the billionaire started taking aim at a wide range of political targets across the pond. In comments aimed at the Tesla billionaire, Starmer criticized those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible, tagging opposition Conservative politicians in Britain who have echoed some of Musks claims. I enjoy the cut and thrust of politics, the robust debate that we must have, but thats got to be based on facts and truth, not on lies, Starmer said when asked about Musks criticism during a question session at a hospital near London. Once we lose the anchor that truth matters then we are on a very slippery slope. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The worlds richest man has slammed Starmer for his record as prime minister as well as his previous record as a prosecutor. Its part of an escalating campaign of comments on politics in countries to which Musk has no strong ties, including Britain and Germany, where he backs the far right-wing AfD party. Musk on Monday posted an online poll for his 210 million followers asking if they agree that America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government. Last summer, he tweeted that civil war is inevitable in Britain. Starmer is utterly despicable, Musk tweeted. Musk, who has become one of President-elect Donald Trumps closest allies, has repeatedly slammed Starmer for supposedly botching probes into child sexual abuse when he was a prosecutor, particularly a series of cases in which groups of men, largely from Pakistani backgrounds, were tried for grooming and abusing dozens of girls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmer, who is suffering from anemic approval ratings, denies any wrongdoing and has vowed to implement reforms proposed by a government commission. Musk has also called for the release of Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, a far-right activist who goes by the name Tommy Robinson and is serving a prison sentence for contempt of court. That call apparently led to a split between Musk and Nigel Farage, the pro-Trump leader of Britains far right wing Reform Party, who wants to keep Robinson at arms length. The Reform Party needs a new leader, Musk tweeted on Sunday. Farage doesnt have what it takes. Farage tweeted back that he was surprised by Musks attack. Elon is a remarkable individual but on this I am afraid I disagree, he wrote. _____ LONDON (Reuters) -British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Monday he had confidence in City Minister Tulip Siddiq, who is facing pressure to resign after being named in a financial corruption investigation in Bangladesh. Starmer appointed Siddiq to the role following the Labour Party's election victory in July, handing her responsibility for financial services policy and engaging with the industry, known colloquially as the "City". Siddiq's aunt is Sheikh Hasina, the ousted prime minister of Bangladesh who is being investigated by its anti-corruption authorities over allegations of corruption, embezzlement and money laundering. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That inquiry has alleged that there were financial irregularities worth about $5 billion involving Hasina, her son Sajeeb Wazed and niece Siddiq. Wazed, speaking on behalf of the family, has previously described the allegations as bogus. Siddiq did not immediately respond to an email from Reuters seeking comment. Starmer was asked in a press conference whether Siddiq should "come clean" following media reports about her use of homes in Britain linked to Hasina's government. "Tulip Siddiq has acted entirely properly by referring herself to the independent adviser, as she has now done," Starmer said. "I've got confidence in her, and that's the process that will now be happening." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmer was referring to the government's ethics adviser Laurie Magnus, whose brief is to ensure that ministers uphold their code of conduct. Magnus has the power to investigate alleged breaches of the ministerial code of conduct and directly advise the prime minister. Labour published a new ministerial code in November, seeking to improve transparency after a row over lawmakers accepting gifts such as clothes and Taylor Swift concert tickets. (Reporting by Sachin Ravikumar; editing by Catarina Demony and Mark Heinrich) The new year brings rather more hope to President Zelensky than Vladimir Putin, I judge. The latter may have been a brilliant spy but is being exposed as a dreadful military commander. He has forgotten, or more likely is unaware of, the principles of warfare, most especially the one that says reinforce success not failure. With his three-week special military operation now approaching its fourth year, it seems most likely that Zelensky will still be in power this time next year and Putins best hope may be a villa in North Korea or breaking rocks in the Urals. Russian history does not paint a rosy picture for failed dictators. The stakes are rising on both sides of the conflict. Putin has been humiliated in Syria and humiliated in Moscow with the assassination of his key general and ally, Kirillov, on his front doorstep. In his annual Christmas question and answer session on National and International TV, he fibbed through his teeth, trying to appear swan-like above the water, but everyone knows hes peddling frantically below it. Putin claimed that he would retake Russias sacred land in Kursk by Christmas, spectacularly taken by Ukrainian forces last summer; but this is looking like another psychological blow to his dictatorship as a new Ukraine offensive pushes eastwards. Kursk may well be the beginning of the end for Putin in 2025, as it was for Hitler in 1943. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It looks like Ukraine forces have given Russian forces in Kursk a real hammering over the last few days and its possible the Russian 801 Marine Brigade has been so badly hit that it has now withdrawn from the Kursk Salient. According to Ukraine estimates, hundreds of North Koreans sent to bolster the brigade have been lost. Ukraine has reported striking and destroying a significant Russian command and control centre in the Kursk region. The Russian front in Kursk is looking very shaky and Ukraine, rather than just hold on, could make gains. In desperation, Putin is sending one of his most trusted generals to the region in an attempt to rescue the situation. Russia seems to have plenty of expendable generals, but not the military hardware to thwart this latest Ukrainian advance. This is giving Kyiv great hope. Putin may well be in survival mode after events in Syria, the elimination of his right-hand man, General Kirillov, and the decision by Ukraine to close off the last route allowing Russia to sell gas to Europe through its territory. Allied to this, he knows Trump is unlikely to do him any favours come January 20, with the mood music coming out of the Trump Camp, that Putin is going to have to accept a deal which probably favours Ukraine or be prepared for Trump to go full on behind Zelensky. This should be another psychological fillip for Ukraine and another mental blow for Putin. Seeing him floundering around in his chat with the nation recently, you can judge he is under real pressure, and with the knowledge that the tyrant Assad has just crashed from his perch and is cowering under Putins coat tails, must be a very disarming experience. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin knows failed Russian dictators rarely collect their pensions and seems to be charting a way out. His final gambit to save Kursk is putting him into check if not checkmate? This is positive, but it is essential that the West and Nato European countries keep up the pressure and dont give him anyway out. Things are looking brighter for Ukraine if we hold our nerve. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. As Ukrainian forces mount a new offensive in Russias Kursk region, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday said that success in this region would improve Kyivs bargaining position in any future ceasefire negotiations. This new effort takes place as Donald Trump is set to return to the White House in two weeks, giving both sides an increasing sense of urgency to gain ground ahead of any future bargaining the new administration might undertake. Ukraines renewed effort in Kursk also comes as Russia, which claimed it captured a key village in eastern Ukraine, continues to gain ground there. the Ukrainians themselves are trying to make sure that they have that strong hand, Blinken told reporters in Seoul, South Korea on Monday. Their position in Kursk is an important one, because certainly its something that would factor into any negotiation that may come about in the coming year. His assessment mirrors what Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said back in September about Kursk being a bargaining chip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WATCH!!! Blinken says Ukraine position in Kursk 'important' for negotiations Their position in Kursk is an important one because certainly its something that would factor in any negotiation that may come about in the coming year, Blinken told reporters in Seoul. https://t.co/nMsYGgH3Vc Alex Raufoglu (@ralakbar) January 6, 2025 Ukraine first invaded Kursk in August but after initial success there, lost about half the territory it gained. It is unclear how much ground Ukraine has gained in the new Kursk offensive. Initial indications were that Ukraines surprise attack achieved some early success. However, the Russian Defense Ministry and Russian Telegram channels suggest that Ukraines advances have been blunted. The War Zone cannot independently verify these battlefield claims. The new Ukrainian offensive has pushed out in at least three directions, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) stated in its latest assessment. Kyivs forces have pushed east and southeast of Sudzha, its main base of operations in Kursk, while also advancing northwest toward the town of Korenevo. Ukrainian forces made tactical advances on January 5, ISW noted. Russian sources claimed that Ukrainian forces conducted multiple roughly company-sized mechanized assaults in the Berdin-Novosotnitsky direction (northeast of Sudzha) in three waves of attack using roughly a battalions worth of armored vehicles. Russian sources claimed that Ukrainian forces also intensified offensive operations in the direction of Leonidovo (southeast of Korenevo) and conducted a reinforced platoon-sized mechanized assault near Pushkarnoye (east of Sudzha). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Geolocated footage published on Jan. 5 indicated that Ukrainian forces advanced in fields southwest and south of Berdin and entered the southern part of the settlement, ISW maintained. NEW: Ukrainian forces resumed offensive operations in at least three areas within the Ukrainian salient in Kursk Oblast and made tactical advances on January 5. (1/3) pic.twitter.com/WFLEhLH5eY Institute for the Study of War (@TheStudyofWar) January 6, 2025 There is also evidence Ukraine is resuming its effort to trap Russian troops ensconced south of the Seim River by attacking near the town of Tetkino, the Russian Rybar Telegram channel suggested. Russian forces, however, also gained some ground in a counterattack, ISW posited. Russian forces also advanced southeast of Sudzha and counterattacked against intensified Ukrainian attacks southeast of Korenevo and north of Sudzha on January 5, ISW stated. Geolocated footage published on January 5 shows that Russian forces advanced in western and southern Makhnovka (just southeast of Sudzha). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NEW: Ukrainian forces resumed offensive operations in at least three areas within the Ukrainian salient in Kursk Oblast and made tactical advances on January 5. (1/3) pic.twitter.com/WFLEhLH5eY Institute for the Study of War (@TheStudyofWar) January 6, 2025 The developments in Kursk oblast looks something like this. We do not know if Ukraine managed to consolidate positions. We think we have geolocated UA units inside Berdin and Novosotnitskii. Geos: https://t.co/RNty0eKLQL pic.twitter.com/ouerMmm9y4 Def Mon (@DefMon3) January 5, 2025 The Ukrainian offensive was aided by long-range fires, electronic warfare and columns led by IMR armored breaching vehicles, according to Russian Telegram channels. To break through, the Ukrainian Armed Forces covered the area with powerful electronic warfare systems, making it difficult for our UAVs to operate, Operation Z suggested. It is expected that the Ukrainian Armed Forces may attack in other areas as well. The enemy uses IMRs, clears roads and drives in armored fighting vehicles and infantry fighting vehicles, the Two Majors Telegram channel claimed. Widespread Russian concern over Russias ability to respond to improved Ukrainian EW technology and long-range strike capabilities indicates that Russian forces may be struggling to quickly adapt to Ukrainian battlefield innovations, ISW reported. Reports that Ukrainian forces are using long-range fires to interdict Russian rear areas and EW to degrade Russian drones in support of Ukrainian mechanized advances indicate that Ukrainian forces operating in Kursk are employing more effective combined arms tactics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A number of Russian channels say that Ukraine has began an offensive operation from near Sudzha towards Bolshoye Soldatskoye in Kursk oblast with armored vehicles. They say Ukrainian EW has been effective against their UAVs and that Ukrainian units cleared mines overnight. pic.twitter.com/jfllbH9kpj Rob Lee (@RALee85) January 5, 2025 In his evening address on Monday, Zelensky claimed Russia has taken heavy losses in Kursk. Today marks exactly five months since the start of our actions in the Kursk region, and we continue to maintain a buffer zone on Russian territory, actively destroying Russian military potential there, he said. Since the beginning of the Kursk operation, the enemy has already lost over 38,000 troops in this area alone, including approximately 15,000 irrecoverable losses. The Russians have deployed their strong units to the Kursk region. Soldiers from North Korea are involved there. Whats important is that the occupier cannot currently redirect all this force to other directions, in particular the Donetsk, Sumy, Kharkiv, or Zaporizhzhia regions. Meanwhile, the Russian MoD claimed it had halted Ukrainian advances. The attempt of the Ukrainian Armed Forces to break through was thwarted by the decisive actions of the Sever Group of Forces units supported by aviation and artillery, the MoD stated on Telegram Monday. As a result of the fire damage, the enemys main forces were neutralized on the outskirts of Berdin area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As we have previously reported, Russias defense of Kursk has been aided by the influx of about 12,000 North Korean troops. So far, nearly a third of those troops have been killed or wounded, Zelensky told American podcaster Lex Fridman in a wide-ranging interview that aired Saturday. North Korea sent 12 thousand of its soldiers, 3800 are already wounded or dead, Zelenskyy tells Fridman in his interview But he also issues a warning, watch pic.twitter.com/7bcLojFkEW Euromaidan Press (@EuromaidanPress) January 6, 2025 On Monday, Blinken doubled down on the Biden administrations assertions that there is a quid pro quo between Moscow and Pyongyang taking place, an arrangement we have written about in the past. What were seeing is not only the provision of artillery, ammunition, and troops by North Korea to Russia forced aggression against Ukraine but we are seeing collaboration, support coming in the other direction, Blinken avowed. Russia is already providing military equipment to the DPRK. Its providing training. We believe that it has the intent to share space and satellite technology with the DPRK, and that concern is very much a focus that not only the United States but also the Republic of Korea and Japan are bringing to bear and very much part of our conversations. Ukraines new Kursk push comes as Russia claims it captured the tactically important eastern Ukrainian town of Kurakhove in the Donetsk region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sitting astride the N-15 highway, the settlement is just south of a mile-wide stretch of the Vovcha River and supports the movement of troops and materiel in the region. As such, it is a bulwark on a Russian advance toward Pokrovsk about 20 miles to the north. Ukraines military command in the east did not comment on the Russian claim that Kurakhove had fallen. However, soldiers fighting in the area, and a local Ukrainian military official, said when reached by phone that while there were pockets of resistance in the factories on the outskirts, the town was essentially lost, The New York Times reported. Today, the Russian Defence Ministry said its forces had seized the Ukrainian town of Kurakhove in Donetsk Region after several months of heavy fighting there. pic.twitter.com/Ppe3wa5N93 Will Vernon (@BBCWillVernon) January 6, 2025 The battles in Kursk and Kurakove played out against the backdrop of the looming presidency of Trump, who has promised to quickly end the war. Though the president-elect has yet to provide any specifics, Zelensky said he is confident Trump can deliver on that pledge. I now see that when I talk about something with Donald Trump, whether we meet in person or we just have a call, all the European leaders always ask, how was it? Zelensky said during his three-hour podcast interview with Fridman. This shows the influence of Donald Trump, and this has never happened before with an American president, I tell you, from my experience, this also gives you confidence, you know, that he can stop this war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelenskyy explains the respect he and other European countries have for Trump, and how it gives him confidence that the President-elect can end the war. Lex Friedman pic.twitter.com/5AJ71vbgt2 Rob Vendetti (@rob_vendetti) January 6, 2025 There is another factor in play, Zelensky added. Fear. Trump can stop Russian President Vladimir Putin because Putin is afraid of him, Zelensky explained. And thats a fact. Zelenskyy on Lex Fridman podcast "Ukraine needs Trump's vision, because he can stop Putin, because Putin is afraid of him. That's A FACT." January 20th can't come fast enough pic.twitter.com/CqCiKDJo0t Ben Timofeyev (@BenTimofeyev) January 5, 2025 Both sides seem to be operating on the basis of information leaked suggesting Trump may seek a frozen front line as it exists, with European troops in Ukraine creating a buffer zone between the two warring parties and Ukraine holding off on joining NATO for 20 years. You can read more about that in our deep dive here. Russia is not amenable to that, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov explained last month. Judging from numerous leaks and Donald Trumps interview with Time magazine on Dec. 12, their idea is to suspend hostilities along the line of contact and transfer responsibility for confrontation with Russia to the Europeans, Lavrov told the Russian official TASS news outlet. We are not happy, of course, with the proposals made by members of the Trump team to postpone Ukraines admission to NATO for 20 years and to station British and European peacekeeping forces in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will learn more in the coming days about the success of Zelenskys latest Kursk gambit and whether any increased deployment of troops and equipment there further weakens his forces defense of the east. Beginning Jan. 20, when Trump is inaugurated, both sides will learn more about what he will do to try and end this full-on war, nearing its third anniversary. Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com Ukrainian forces on Sunday launched a new offensive inside Russia's western Kursk border region, going on the attack with substantial forces according to reports from Russian and Ukrainian military bloggers. Russia's Defense Ministry reported a large-scale attack by Kyiv's forces involving armored columns that began on Sunday morning, with Ukrainian troops attacking in three directions inside Kursk. Ukraine first seized a foothold inside the Kursk region with a surprise offensive in August. But Kyiv's forces have since been slowly pushed back by Russia, including recently with support from North Korean troops. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Ukrainian military source confirmed to ABC News that a new offensive operation had begun. PHOTO: In this photo taken from video distributed by Russian Defense Ministry Press Service on Jan. 4, 2025, Russian servicemen attend a combat training for assault units in an undisclosed location. (AP) The head of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's office, Andrii Yermark, also appeared to cryptically confirm the offensive, writing on Telegram: "Kursk Oblast, good news! Russia is getting what it deserves." Andrii Kovalenko, head of Ukraine's counter-disinformation center, also wrote that Ukrainian troops have gone on the attack in multiple directions inside Kursk. Videos posted to Russian military blogger channels appeared to show columns of Ukrainian armored vehicles on the move. The Ukrainian assault appears to be Kyiv's most substantial offensive operation in Kursk since August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Multiple Russian military bloggers reported that Ukrainian troops, tanks, armored vehicles and demining equipment attacked the villages of Berdin and Bolshoye Soldatskoye, north of Sudzha -- the main administrative border town that Ukraine captured in August. MORE: Video Ukraine launches new offensive in Russia Bloggers also reported an attack further west on the border town of Tetkino. Prominent Russian military bloggers -- some close to Russia's Defense Ministry -- said that the offensive was expected but that the situation is challenging for the Russian defenders. The Defense Ministry said in a statement that two assaults were repelled. "The operation to destroy the Ukrainian Armed Forces formations continues," it wrote on Telegram. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian troops appeared to make small advances on Sunday but did not achieve significant breakthroughs of the Russian lines, according to open-source monitors. Some Russian military bloggers said they believe Ukraine will attempt another push through Monday, with others suggesting Kyiv's main attack was yet to come. The new Ukrainian assault comes just two weeks before President-elect Donald Trump returns to the White House, with the expectation that his new administration will push for a peace deal to end the nearly 3-year-old war. PHOTO: Ukrainian servicemen fire a howitzer towards Russian troops at a position on the front line in Kharkiv region, Ukraine, on Jan. 3, 2025. (Sofiia Gatilova/Reuters) ABC News' Natasha Popova contributed to this report. Ukraine launches new offensive in Russia's Kursk region, Kyiv and Moscow confirm originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Ukraine's Defense Ministry has ordered another 180,000 rounds of 35 mm ammunition for self-propelled Gepard anti-aircraft guns from the German Rheinmetall arms manufacturer, the company announced on Jan. 6. The order for a new batch of rounds of HEI-T ammunition (High Explosive Incendiary with Tracer) was booked in December 2024 and is funded by the German government. The start of delivery is expected in 2026, according to Rheinmetall. Berlin sent 55 Gepards to Ukraine, which had been decommissioned by Germany's Armed Forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They have proven their value in air defense for more than two years," the statement read. The Gepard, a German-designed weapon first introduced into service in the 1970s, was designed for use against planes and helicopters. It is also seen as highly effective against drones, including the Shahed-type ones, which Russia uses in daily attacks against Ukraine. Initially criticized for its sluggish delivery of military aid to Ukraine following the beginning of the full-scale invasion, Berlin has become the second-largest provider of military equipment after the U.S. Read also: Scholz denies claims that he could meet with Putin in Russia Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Ukraine has not received even half of the $177 billion the U.S. allocated to support Kyiv throughout the full-scale war, President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview with U.S. podcaster Lex Fridman released on Jan. 5. Zelensky implied that this development may have been linked to corruption or lobbying on the side of U.S. companies. Ukraine's head of state said this in response to Fridman's question about corruption concerns in Ukraine. The U.S. has become Ukraine's top supporter, providing the largest amount of military assistance to resist Russian aggression. Voices critical of Washington's support have often cited corruption risks and dangers of the illicit arms trade, though U.S. watchdogs have closely monitored the assistance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While acknowledging corruption in Ukraine, Zelensky said that his country works hard to combat it through the "most complex" anti-corruption system in Europe. He also said that what would be called "corruption" in Ukraine might be called "lobbyism" elsewhere. "If we had $177 billion and if we get the half, where is the second half? If you find the second half, you will find corruption," Zelensky commented in the wide-ranging three-hour interview. Zelensky provided an example of him allegedly unsuccessfully appealing to Washington to bring in U.S. arms using Ukraine's own fleet of cargo planes not to pay for the transport. "No. I didn't get this opportunity. My jets stayed put, and the U.S. jets, cargo jets moved these weapons. But everywhere you have to spend money," Zelensky added, saying that Ukraine could have spent this money to buy more arms instead of paying for expensive transport to U.S. companies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Is this corruption or not? Or lobbyism?" the president asked, saying that he has been reluctant to talk about such causes so as not to cause a scandal that could lead to the halt of aid. The president stressed that Ukraine does not profit from the war and that such claims stem from Russian propaganda, adding that Ukrainian authorities strictly punish anybody who attempts to profit from foreign military aid. Ukraine has made strides to combat corruption since the EuroMaidan Revolution in 2014, but civil society groups and activists have raised the alarm about the anti-graft efforts slowing down during the full-scale war. Read also: Zelensky offered to buy weapons from incoming Trump administration with frozen Russian assets Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. 3,800 North Koreans have been killed or wounded fighting alongside Russia, Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. But Ukraine's president told the Lex Fridman podcast that hundreds of thousands more could arrive. The estimate came amid a discussion of the danger to Europe if the US leaves NATO. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a podcast interview released Sunday that 3,800 North Korean soldiers had been killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk region to date. Zelenskyy's figure suggests that a third of the North Korean troops brought over to fight alongside Russia have been taken out of action. "12,000 has arrived. Today, 3,800 killed or wounded," he told podcaster Lex Fridman, but he cautioned that North Korea could send many more, giving a figure as high as half a million troops. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Estimates of North Korean casualties have varied since intelligence agencies reported in October that it was sending troops to help Russian President Vladimir Putin defend territory seized by Ukraine in the summer. In late December, the White House estimated that more than 1,000 North Koreans had been killed or wounded in the space of a single week, amid mass dismounted attacks. And in his nightly address on Saturday, Zelenskyy said that the Russian army had lost "up to a battalion of infantry, including North Korean soldiers and Russian paratroopers," in fighting in the village of Makhnovka in Kursk. Concerns for Europe Zelenskyy offered the latest casualty figures as part of a broader argument about the dangers to Europe if the US retreats from NATO. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President-elect Donald Trump has long been critical of NATO and the defense spending of some of its members, leading to concerns that he could slash support for the alliance or even walk away. Zelenskyy said that if Trump decides to leave NATO once back in office, "Putin will destroy Europe." He also argued that European countries are much less willing and able to raise massive armies compared to an autocracy like North Korea. While Ukraine has around 980,000 military personnel, the militaries of its European allies are a fraction of the size, Zelenskyy said. "Can Europe bring people together? No," he said. "Will Europe be able to build an army consisting of two to three million people? No, Europe will not want to do this." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dmytro Ponomarenko, Ukraine's ambassador to South Korea, told Voice of America in November that the number of North Korean troops aiding Russia could soon reach 15,000, with troops rotated out every two to three months. That could mean about 100,000 North Korean soldiers serving in Russia within a year, he added. Read the original article on Business Insider Two Russian anti-missile Pantsir-S1 systems and one OSA anti-aircraft vehicle were damaged or destroyed by Ukraine's Navy in one day, the military branch claimed on Jan. 6. "Our soldiers continue to turn Russian equipment into scrap metal," Ukrainian Navy Commander Oleksii Neizhpapa said in a Facebook post referring to the three successful attacks. In his post, Neizhpapa shared a video apparently depicting a drone zeroing in on a Russian Pantsir-S1 vehicle, claiming that the two Pantsir-S1 were destroyed in the occupied territory of Ukraines Kherson Oblast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Pantsir S-1 has an estimated price tag of around $15 million. One such system is suspected to be behind the mistaken downing of an Azerbaijani plane on Dec. 25, according to the media. 0:00 / 1 Developed in the Soviet Union in the 1960s, the 9K33 Osa (SA-8 Gecko according to NATO terminology) is a highly mobile, short-range, low-altitude surface-to-air missile system still in use by Russia, Ukraine, and a dozen other countries. The Osa has been used with great effect by the Russian Armed Forces against Ukrainian drones, with some experts linking it to Ukraine scaling down the use of its once-popular Bayraktar drones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The system functions as an all-in-one transporter erector launcher and radar (TELAR) vehicle that can detect and attack enemy targets independently. The Kyiv Independent could not independently verify the Navy's claims nor the extent of the damage done to the Russian anti-aircraft and anti-missile systems. Russia has lost 1,034 air defense systems since the full-scale invasion began, Ukraines Armed Forces reported before the news of the three successful hits surfaced. Read also: Russia claims to capture Kurakhove, Ukraine says fighting ongoing in the sector Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Hundreds of South Koreans, bundled up against freezing temperatures and snow, rallied overnight into yesterday near the residence of impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, calling for his ouster and arrest, as authorities prepared to renew their efforts to detain him over his short-lived martial law decree. Dozens of anti-corruption agency investigators and police attempted to execute a detainment warrant against Yoon on Friday but retreated from his residence in Seoul after a tense standoff with the presidential security service that lasted more than five hours. The one-week warrant for his detention is valid through today. There were no immediate indications that anti-corruption authorities were ready to send investigators back to the residence as of yesterday afternoon. Staff from the presidential security service were seen installing barbed wire near the gate and along the hills leading up to Yoons residence over the weekend, possibly in preparation for another detention attempt. Last Tuesday, a Seoul court issued a warrant to detain Yoon and a separate warrant to search his residence after the embattled president defied authorities by refusing to appear for questioning and obstructing searches of his office. But enforcing them is complicated as long as Yoon remains in his official residence. Investigators from the countrys anti-corruption agency are weighing charges of rebellion after the conservative president, apparently frustrated that his policies were blocked by a legislature dominated by the liberal opposition, declared martial law on Dec. 3 and dispatched troops to surround the National Assembly. The Assembly overturned the declaration within hours in a unanimous vote and impeached Yoon on Dec. 14, accusing him of rebellion, while South Korean anti-corruption authorities and public prosecutors opened separate investigations into the events. If the anti-corruption agency manages to detain Yoon, it will likely ask a court for permission to make a formal arrest. Otherwise, Yoon will be released after 48 hours. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials, which is leading a joint investigation with police and military investigators, says detaining Yoon would be virtually impossible as long as he is protected by the presidential security service. The agency has urged the countrys acting leader, Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok, to instruct the service to comply with their execution of the detainment warrant, but Choi has yet to publicly comment on the issue. In a video statement, Park Jong-joon, chief of the presidential security service, hit back against criticism that his organization has become Yoons private army, saying it has legal obligations to protect the incumbent president. Park said he instructed his members not to use violence during their standoff with investigators and called for the anti-corruption agency and police to change their approach. Park and the deputy chief of the presidential security service defied summonses on Saturday from police, who planned to question them over the suspected obstruction of official duty following Fridays events. Yoons legal team said it will file complaints against the anti-corruption agencys chief prosecutor, Oh Dong-woon, and approximately 150 investigators and police officers involved in Fridays detention attempt, which they claim was unlawful. The team said it will also file complaints with public prosecutors against the countrys acting defense minister and police chief for ignoring the presidential security services request to provide additional forces to block the detention attempt. Yoons lawyers had submitted an objection to the warrants against the president on Thursday, but the Seoul Western District Court dismissed the challenge on Sunday. Park Chan-dae, floor leader of the main opposition Democratic Party, called for the anti-corruption agency to move quickly to detain Yoon, saying it was deeply disappointing to see the agency hesitating and letting time slip away. Hundreds of anti-Yoon protesters rallied for hours near the gates of the presidential residence from Saturday evening to Sunday, voicing frustration over the failed detention attempt and demanding stronger efforts to bring Yoon into custody. Separated by police barricades and buses, pro-Yoon protesters were gathering in nearby streets, denouncing his impeachment and vowing to block any efforts to detain him. With barely a day left before the execution deadline for Yoon Seok Yeols detainment warrant, the presidential security service continues to hide a criminal and the Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials cannot be more relaxed, Kim Eun-jeong, an activist, said on a stage during the anti-Yoon rally. Angry citizens have already spent two freezing nights demanding his immediate detainment. Are their voices not being heard? Yoons lawyers have challenged the detention and search warrants against the president, saying they cannot be enforced at his residence due to a law that protects locations potentially linked to military secrets from search without the consent of the person in charge which would be Yoon. They also argue the anti-corruption office lacks the legal authority to investigate rebellion charges and that police officers dont have the legal authority to assist in detaining Yoon. While the presidential security act mandates protection for Yoon, it does not authorize the presidential security service to block court-ordered detainments. The services attempts to block the execution of the warrant may amount to an obstruction of official duty, according to Park Sung-bae, an attorney specializing in criminal law. While the president mostly has immunity from prosecution while in office, the protection does not extend to allegations of rebellion or treason. The agency said its outnumbered investigators had several scuffles with presidential security forces that threatened their safety and expressed serious regret that Yoon was not complying with the legal process. After getting around a military unit guarding the residences grounds, the agencys investigators and police were able to approach within 200 meters of Yoons residential building but were stopped by a barricade comprising around 10 vehicles and approximately 200 members of the presidential security forces and troops. The agency said it wasnt able to visually confirm whether Yoon was inside the residence. The Defense Ministry says the troops at Yoons official residence are under the control of the presidential security service. Kim Seon-ho, the acting defense minister, conveyed his concern to the presidential security service, saying that deploying military personnel to block the execution of the detention warrant would be inappropriate and requesting that the troops arent placed in a position where they might confront police, according to the ministry. Yoons defense minister, police chief and several top military commanders have already been arrested over their roles in the period of martial law. Yoons presidential powers have been suspended since the National Assembly voted to impeach him on Dec. 14. Yoons fate now lies with the Constitutional Court, which has begun deliberations on whether to uphold the impeachment and formally remove Yoon from office or reinstate him. KIM TONG-HYUNG, SEOUL, MDT/AP Key developments on Jan. 6: Ukraine strikes 3 Russian air defense systems in single day, Navy claims 3,800 North Korean troops killed or injured in Russia's Kursk Oblast, Zelensky says Ukraine's position in Kursk Oblast important for possible negotiations, Blinken says Zelensky offered to buy weapons from incoming Trump administration with frozen Russian assets Lukashenko apologized to Zelensky for Belarus' role, denied responsibility early in Russia's invasion, Zelensky says Russia fueling Transnistria energy crisis for propaganda, destabilization, Moldova says Macron sees no 'quick and easy solution' to Ukraine, urges 'realistic' discussions on territory Two Russian anti-missile Pantsir-S1 systems and one OSA anti-aircraft vehicle were damaged or destroyed by Ukraine's Navy in one day, the military branch claimed on Jan. 6. "Our soldiers continue to turn Russian equipment into scrap metal," Ukrainian Navy Commander Oleksii Neizhpapa said in a Facebook post referring to the three successful attacks. In his post, Neizhpapa shared a video apparently depicting a drone zeroing in on a Russian Pantsir-S1 vehicle, claiming that the two Pantsir-S1 were destroyed in the occupied territory of Ukraines Kherson Oblast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Pantsir S-1 has an estimated price tag of around $15 million. One such system is suspected to be behind the mistaken downing of an Azerbaijani plane on Dec. 25, according to the media. 0:00 / 1 Developed in the Soviet Union in the 1960s, the 9K33 Osa (SA-8 Gecko according to NATO terminology) is a highly mobile, short-range, low-altitude surface-to-air missile system still in use by Russia, Ukraine, and a dozen other countries. The Osa has been used with great effect by the Russian Armed Forces against Ukrainian drones, with some experts linking it to Ukraine scaling down the use of its once-popular Bayraktar drones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The system functions as an all-in-one transporter erector launcher and radar (TELAR) vehicle that can detect and attack enemy targets independently. The Kyiv Independent could not independently verify the Navy's claims nor the extent of the damage done to the Russian anti-aircraft and anti-missile systems. Russia has lost 1,034 air defense systems since the full-scale invasion began, Ukraines Armed Forces reported before the news of the three successful hits surfaced. Read also: Russia claims to capture Kurakhove, Ukraine says fighting ongoing in the sector 3,800 North Korean troops killed or injured in Russia's Kursk Oblast, Zelensky says A total of 3,800 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded by Ukrainian forces in Russia's Kursk Oblast, President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview with American podcaster Lex Fridman published on Jan. 5. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pyongyang sent upwards of 12,000 North Korean soldiers into Kursk Oblast in the fall of 2024, amid an agreement to help counter a surprise Ukrainian incursion into the region which began on Aug. 6. Ukrainian forces have been fighting to hold onto territory in the region ever since in hopes it can be used as a bargaining chip in future negotiations with Russia. Zelensky, in his wide-ranging interview with Lex Fridman, added that Pyongyang has the capabilities to bring additional North Korean troops to the front, as many as 30,000 -40,000 troops. Ukraine reportedly ramped up its operations in Kursk Oblast with a new offensive on Jan. 5, with mixed reports surfacing on outcome of the renewed push from Kyiv. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The renewed offensive comes amid significant losses among Russian and North Korean forces during recent clashes, Zelensky said in his evening address on Jan. 4, citing information from Ukraine's top commander. White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said on Dec. 27 that North Korean units had been carrying out "human wave" attacks against Ukrainian positions in Kursk Oblast, with little effect amounting to high casualty totals. Kirby added that North Korean soldiers have reportedly taken their own lives rather than surrender to Ukrainian troops, out of fear their families will be targeted over their capture. Ukraine and Russia are rushing to make up ground in Kursk Oblast before U.S. President-elect Donald Trump takes power on Jan. 2o. Trump has previously said he would end the war in "24 hours" with potential peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. officials told Bloomberg on Dec. 27 that they believe Ukraine may only have a few months left in its incursion into Kursk Oblast until Ukraine's military is forced to retreat from the region or risk being encircled by Russian forces. The comments come as Ukraine has steadily lost ground in the region amid Russian counterattacks. Ukraine has reportedly lost over 40% of territory it previously gained in due to renewed Russian efforts. Read also: Heavy Russian, North Korean losses in Russias Kursk region, Zelensky says Ukraine's position in Kursk Oblast important for possible negotiations, Blinken says Outgoing U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Jan. 6 that Ukrainian positions in Russia's Kursk Oblast could play an important role in possible talks with Russia, the AFP news agency reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Biden administration, whose term expires in a few weeks, has sped up the delivery of military assistance to Ukraine to put Kyiv in the strongest possible position in potential peace negotiations. "Their (Ukraine's) position in Kursk is an important one because certainly it's something that would factor in any negotiation that may come about in the coming year," Blinken told reporters in Seoul. The comments come at the heels of reports of Ukraine launching new offensive operations in Kursk Oblast after months of being on the defensive. Ukraine launched the cross-border incursion in early August, allegedly seizing 1,300 square kilometers (500 square miles) of Russian soil. Since then, Moscow has deployed reinforcements, including thousands of North Korean soldiers, and reportedly recaptured around half of the lost territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Volodymyr Zelensky also called the Kursk incursion an important "trump card" in any potential talks. There are growing expectations of possible peace talks in 2025 as U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who will take office on Jan. 20, pledged to bring both sides to the negotiating table. Trump's return to the White House sparked concerns among Ukraine's allies due to the president-elect's past criticism of the Biden administration's support for Kyiv. In comments made since his reelection, Trump hinted at a possible reduction of U.S. assistance but said he would not "abandon" the country, instead aiming to leverage Washington's aid to push Russia to negotiate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Ukraine launches new offensive in Russias Kursk Oblast, mixed reports surface on outcome Zelensky offered to buy weapons from incoming Trump administration with frozen Russian assets President Volodymyr Zelensky previously offered U.S. President-elect Donald Trump for Ukraine to buy American weapons at the expense of $300 billion in frozen Russian assets, Zelensky revealed in an interview with American podcaster Lex Fridman published on Jan. 5. "This is one of the security guarantees. Take the money, what we need for our interior production, and we will buy all the weapons from the United States. We don't need gifts from the United States," Zelensky said in his wide-ranging interview with Fridman. "It will be very good for your industry. For the United States. We will put money there. Russian money. Not Ukrainian. Not European. Russian money. Russian assets. They have to pay for this," Zelensky added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelensky did not comment on Trump's reaction to the suggestion. Trump and his team have been critical of U.S. spending to support Ukraine. Michael Waltz, Trump's appointed National Security Advisor for his upcoming term said on Dec. 15 that a "blank check... just isn't a strategy." Despite previously criticizing U.S. aid for Ukraine, the Financial Times reported on Dec. 21, citing undisclosed sources, that Trump may not halt U.S. military support for Ukraine. Zelensky has taken steps to foster a positive relationship with Trump, despite previously having a fraught relationship stemming from Trumps 2019 impeachment trial. The two leaders met on Sept. 27 in the midst of the U.S. presidential election campaign. They met again on the sidelines of the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron on Dec. 7. "He (Trump) is strong... He is young... and his brains work," Zelensky said when asked why he thinks Trump won the U.S. presidential election in November. Zelensky previously said that the country must do everything possible to end the war through diplomatic means in 2025, adding that a war would "end faster" under a Trump administration. Read also: SBU behind drone attack on one of Russias largest sea trade ports in Leningrad Oblast, source claims Lukashenko apologized to Zelensky for Belarus' role, denied responsibility early in Russia's invasion, Zelensky says Shortly after Russia's full-scale invasion began, Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko apologized to President Volodymyr Zelensky over the country's involvement in the war, Zelensky revealed in an interview with American podcaster Lex Fridman published on Jan. 5. "A few days into the war, I spoke with Lukashenko on the phone, and he apologized... he said, 'It was not me, missiles were launched from my territory, and (Russian President Vladimir) Putin was the one launching them.' These are his words, I have witnesses," Zelensky said in his wide-ranging interview. "'And I apologize,' he said. 'But believe me' that's what he told me 'Volodya (referring to Volodymyr Zelensky), this is not me. Im not in charge,'" Zelensky added. In response, Zelensky said that he called Lukashenko "a murderer," questioning why Lukashenko allowed Russia to launch missiles at Ukraine from Belarusian territory. Lukashenko became increasingly reliant on Russia after isolating Belarus from the West, following Belarus' 2020 election. Lukashenko's opposition and the West condemned the results as fraudulent. Lukashenko cracked down on mass protests that broke out in response to the fraudulent election results. Since then, Belarusian authorities have increasingly suppressed political freedoms and have become complacent in Russia's war against Ukraine. Despite not being directly involved in Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Belarus continues to host Russian troops and missiles on its territory. Lukashenko asked Putin on Dec. 6 to deploy the Oreshnik missile systems in Belarus, a weapon Russia recently used to strike Ukraine, Russian state-controlled news agency RIA Novosti reported. As many as 10 missile systems will be deployed, according to pro-Kremlin journalist Alexander Yunashev. Belarus will be holding its next presidential election on Jan. 26 where Lukashenko is expected to be handed a seventh term in office. Read also: Lukashenko to visit China ahead of Belarus presidential elections Russia fueling Transnistria energy crisis for propaganda, destabilization, Moldova says The energy crisis in Transnistria, triggered by Russia's Jan. 1 cutoff of gas supplies, is part of a broader Russian plan to manipulate and spread propaganda, Moldovan government spokesperson Daniel Voda said on Jan. 6. "Russian propaganda tries to create a story in which Moldova becomes a problematic actor, although the government has proposed clear solutions to avoid the crisis," he said. Gazprom, Russias state-controlled energy giant, halted gas deliveries to Moldova, citing alleged unpaid debts by Moldovagaz. Moldovan officials disputed these claims, noting an international audit failed to verify the debts. Transnistria, a Russian-occupied region since the early 1990s, relies heavily on Russian gas and has faced industrial collapse due to widespread power outages and heating failures. Voda said the crisis reflects Russia's deliberate effort to create fear and unrest. "This energy crisis is more than an economic problem it is part of a larger Russian plan of manipulation and propaganda designed to create fear and discontent on both banks of the Dnister." Nearly 72,000 homes and 1,500 high-rise buildings in Transnistria are without heating or hot water, according to Vadim Krasnoselsky, leader of the regions Russian-backed administration. Moldova previously offered to help Transnistria purchase gas through European platforms, but local Russian-backed authorities rejected the proposal, claiming Western energy prices are "higher and unstable." The spokesperson criticized the refusal, calling it a failure to "cooperate for the benefit of the people." Russian propaganda has sought to blame Chisinau for the crisis, alleging that Moldovan authorities intentionally caused power outages to punish the region, Voda said. While a transit agreement for Russian gas through Ukraine expired on the same day, Gazprom maintains that Moldovas debts, not transit issues, prompted the suspension. While the rest of Moldova has transitioned to European energy supplies through Romania, Transnistria remains heavily dependent on Russian gas. Read also: Transnistrias electricity supply system faces collapse amid gas shortage, Moldovan official warns Macron sees no 'quick and easy solution' to Ukraine, urges 'realistic' discussions on territory French President Emmanuel Macron on Jan. 6 called on Ukraine to have "realistic discussions on territorial issues" as they alone can conduct them. "There will be no quick and easy solution in Ukraine," Macron said in an address to French ambassadors in the Elysee Palace. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has previously vowed to bring both sides to the negotiating table and swiftly end the war. "The U.S. must help us to change the nature of the situation and convince Russia to come to the negotiating table," Macron said in comments quoted by France24. Russia currently occupies around 20% of Ukrainian territory. President Volodymyr Zelensky has acknowledged that Ukraine's military currently lacks the strength to retake all of it by force, noting that some regions, like Crimea, will have to be liberated through diplomatic means. In his address, the French head of state warned of repercussions for Europe and the U.S. should Ukraine emerge from the war on the losing side. "The new American president himself knows that the U.S. has no chance of winning anything if Ukraine loses," Macron said. France's president also said that it would be up to European countries to "build security guarantees" for Ukraine, a statement in line with his calls for greater European strategic autonomy. Paris has spearheaded the idea of deploying European peacekeepers to Ukraine after a possible ceasefire deal is reached. Trump, who vowed to get the U.S. "out" of the conflict, has reportedly backed the idea, while Russia has rejected it. Trump's imminent return to the White House, Ukraine's military setbacks, and Russia's growing economic difficulties have contributed to expectations of possible peace talks in 2025. Kyiv's allies have said they seek to put Ukraine in the strongest possible position for any possible negotiations, with German government saying on Jan. 6 that peace cannot be "dictated" from Moscow. Read also: Putin is afraid of Trumps administration Estonian foreign minister on potential Russia-Ukraine negotiations Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. A top analyst says Ukraine's decision to form new brigades instead of bolstering old ones isn't working. Many of the new units are being divided up and sent to existing brigades that need replenishment. The analyst said it was "one of the more puzzling force management choices" Kyiv had made. Ukraine's 2024 strategy for solving a shortage of soldiers its biggest challenge thus far by forming new brigades instead of reinforcing old ones is performing poorly, a top analyst on the war said. Michael Kofman, a senior fellow for the Russia and Eurasia Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, wrote in a social-media thread on Saturday that Kyiv's decision was "one of the more puzzling force management choices" it had made. "Expanding the force with new brigades, when men are desperately needed to replace losses among experienced formations deployed on the front lines, had visible tradeoffs," Kofman wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With little experience, the new units have been "generally combat ineffective," he added. '"As was seen in 2023, new formations perform poorly in offensive and defensive roles. Requiring considerable time to gain experience, cohesion, confidence, etc.," Kofman wrote. The result is that the strategy has at least partially disintegrated, with battalions from the new brigades eventually sent to shore up losses in units that were already fighting, he wrote. Ukrainian leadership said in May that it aimed to create 10 new brigades, each of which typically consists of several thousand troops. In doing so, its leaders hoped to provide fresh units that could rotate into combat or fill gaps on the front line. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There is simply no other effective way to counteract the overwhelming enemy," a spokesperson for Ukraine's armed forces said in November. "After all, today we have a 1,300-kilometer-long front with active combat clashes." Some elements of these brigades were aided by training from Western forces, such as the 155th Mechanized Brigade. About half of its recruits drilled in France. But the 155th's debut late last year created a crisis for Ukraine as reports emerged that it suffered from high rates of desertion and was being picked apart to siphon resources to other brigades. Yuriy Butusov, a local journalist, reported just before the New Year that the new brigade, often finding itself whittled down, had to juggle specialists such as drone-jamming operators into infantry roles. The backlash to the news was severe, with Ukrainian figures voicing questions about the new strategy as a whole. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Perhaps it's sheer idiocy to create new brigades and equip them with new technology while existing ones are undermanned," wrote Lt. Col. Bohdan Krotevych, who serves as the chief of staff in the Azov Brigade. The 155th is supplied with dozens of French-made armored vehicles, howitzers, and personnel carriers. Kofman wrote that the 155th's scandal was "just the most egregious case" of Ukraine's force-management problems. Divvying up new units has led to a "steady fragmentation of the defensive effort and loss of cohesion," he wrote. "This patchwork groupings of forces must hold the front," he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the past year, Ukraine has faced a slow but persistent Russian assault in the eastern regions of the Donbas, where Moscow has been throwing a steady supply of men and equipment at Kyiv's outnumbered and exhausted defensive lines. Russia's gains have been incremental, and its reported losses are staggering, but it's advancing nonetheless. Another pain point has been that there's not enough Western military aid to go around. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in September that Kyiv had sought to arm 14 of its brigades with Western weapons but that arms packages in 2024 couldn't even supply four of them. It's turned to domestic production to fill some of its needs, and Zelenskyy said on New Year's Eve that 30% of the weapons Ukraine used in 2024 were created locally. Amid the troop and equipment shortages, Ukrainian units have also been developing new drones at breakneck speed, often cobbled together from commercial parts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kofman wrote that these drones had proven to be "force multipliers," letting troops lay mines safely and harassing Russian units before they could reach the front. "However, tech innovation, tactical adaptation, and better integration are insufficient to compensate for failure to address the fundamentals," Kofman added. "Russian gains may appear unimpressive, but UA needs to address manpower, training, and force management issues to sustain this fight." Kofman and the Ukrainian defense ministry didn't respond to requests for comment sent outside regular business hours by Business Insider. The past year has increasingly turned the war into a conflict of attrition, not just in troops but also in resources. Russia is now entering a third year of sustaining its economy in the face of the West's sweeping sanctions, relying heavily on defense manufacturing and offering large bonuses to new recruits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some in Ukraine hope that if it can solve its personnel issues and maintain its defensive lines, it will eventually exhaust Russia's ability to funnel money and men into the war. Read the original article on Business Insider Since the start of the day on 6 January, there have been 108 combat clashes on the battlefield, with the majority of Russian assaults taking place in Russia's Kursk Oblast, where Ukraine's defence forces currently operate. Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook; information as of 15:25 on 6 January Quote: "In Kursk Oblast, Ukrainian defenders repelled 17 attacks by the invaders, 45 more combat clashes are ongoing." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: In addition, on the Kharkiv front, Ukrainian Armed Forces repelled two Russian attacks in the vicinity of Vovchansk. On the Kupiansk front, the Russians conducted three assault operations near Synkivka, Petropavlivka and Zahryzove. Two of the clashes ended, and one is still ongoing. On the Lyman front, the Russian army attacked seven times near Nadiia, Pershotravneve and Makiivka. The fighting continues. On the Siversk front, the Russian aircraft struck Siversk using seven guided aerial bombs. The Russians attacked Ukrainian defenders once in the vicinity of Bilohorivka. On the Kramatorsk front, Ukrainian defenders repelled three Russian attempts to advance in the vicinities of Chasiv Yar, Bila Hora and towards Stupochky. Russian troops launched 24 unguided rockets at Stupochky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the Toretsk front, the Russians attacked twice near Shcherbynivka. On the Pokrovsk front, since the beginning of the day, the Russians have conducted 16 attempts to push Ukrainian defenders from their positions near Tarasivka, Yelyzavetivka, Lysivka, Zelene, Novyi Trud and Pokrovsk. Ukraines defence forces are holding back the Russian onslaught and have repelled 12 attacks, with four clashes still ongoing. On the Kurakhove front, the Russians reportedly attacked seven times near Slovianka, Petropavlivka, Kurakhove and Dachne. Six battles were completed, and another one is still ongoing. On the Vremivka front, the Russians attacked the positions of Ukraines defence forces four times near Kostiantynopil and Kostiantynopolske. One battle is still ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the Orikhiv front, the Russians attacked Ukrainian defenders once in the vicinity of Novodanylivka. Background: On the night of 4-5 January, the Ukrainian defence forces launched an offensive in Kursk Oblast. In particular, it was reported that the Ukrainian Armed Forces were advancing from the direction of Suzdha towards the village of Bolshoye Soldatskoye. Support UP or become our patron! Ukraine's new attack in Kursk is featuring some impressive drone jamming, Russian military bloggers said. The bloggers reported that Ukrainian forces were able to break through because of "powerful electronic warfare." it's made it difficult for Russian drone operators to work in the area, they wrote. Ukraine launched a renewed offensive in Russia's Kursk region on Sunday, where Russian pro-war bloggers say Kyiv's drone jammers have been working exceptionally well. The "Operation Z" channel, a collection of dispatches from Russian war correspondents, wrote that the attack had focused on the Bolshesoldatsky district, to the northeast of the Ukrainian-held pocket in Kursk. "In order to break through, the Ukrainian Armed Forces covered the area with powerful electronic warfare systems, making it difficult for our UAVs to operate," wrote the Telegram channel, which has over 1.6 million subscribers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Razvedos Advanced Gear & Equipment, a Russian military news Telegram channel with over 152,000 subscribers, echoed those comments in a post on Sunday. "It cannot be said that they were not expected in this direction, but they managed to VERY effectively use electronic warfare," it wrote of the fighting in Bolshesoldatsky. Roman Alekhine, a military blogger with about 218,000 subscribers, wrote on his channel: "The enemy has covered the attack area with electronic warfare, so many drones are useless." Alekhine later posted that some Russian drone operators were still able to switch to unjammed frequencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sergei Kolyasnikov, another military blogger with about 498,000 subscribers, reported that about 10 Ukrainian tanks and armored vehicles had entered the Bolshesoldatsky region. "The area is covered with some powerful electronic warfare, nothing is flying at all," he wrote. The specifics of Ukraine's new push this week into Russian territory are still unclear. Kyiv initially launched a surprise counteroffensive into Kursk in August, where it took an estimated 480 square miles of Russian land but has been slowly pushed back since. Ukraine has stayed mostly silent on the matter. But Andriy Kovalenko, head of the Center for Countering Disinformation run by Ukraine's national security and defense council, alluded to an assault on Sunday by posting that Russian troops in Kursk "were attacked from several directions and it came as a surprise to them." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Andriy Yermak, chief of staff for Ukraine's president, also hinted at an attack by writing on his Telegram channel that Russia was "getting what it deserves" in Kursk. Meanwhile, Russia has outright declared that Ukraine had attacked again. "On January 5, at about 09:00 Moscow time, in order to stop the advance of Russian troops in the Kursk direction, the enemy launched a counterattack with an assault group consisting of two tanks, a barrier vehicle, and 12 combat armored vehicles with troops in the direction of the Berdin farm," its defense ministry told state media. As reports of Ukraine's jamming efforts emerged, the defense ministry published a video of a Russian drone operator coordinating a tank strike on an unknown target in a forested area, saying he was working in Kursk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ukrainian and Russian Defense Ministries did not respond to requests for comment sent outside regular business hours by Business Insider. Electronic warfare has increasingly been key on the battlefield as both Russia and Ukraine turn to cheap drones for reconnaissance, loitering munitions, and close-range bombing runs. One development has seen both sides deploy wired drones. These use long fiber optic cables unfurled from a spool as the aerial system takes flight, allowing it to bypass jamming systems. Should they become mainstream, they may pose yet another challenge for militaries that are already spending big on preparing against drone threats. The US, for example, is paying some $250 million to Anduril, Palmer Luckey's defense startup, for 500 drones and an electronic warfare system called Pulsar. Read the original article on Business Insider Ukraine has 980,000 people in arms as it fights Russia's all-out war, President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview with U.S. podcaster Lex Fridman published on Jan. 5. Zelensky presented Ukraine's Armed Forces as the largest in Europe. This, however, excludes Russia, whose military personnel exceeded 1 million at the onset of the full-scale invasion, with Moscow aiming to raise this number to 1.5 million. "The Ukrainian army is the largest in Europe. The second place after us (France) is four times smaller than us," Zelensky said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I think the French have about 200,000. We have 980,000." Critics push for even more, as Ukraines army has been on the back foot on the front line during 2024, partially due to a manpower shortage that analysts attributed to the countrys demographics and a disjointed mobilization process. Ukraine lowered the mobilization age from 27 to 25 in April 2024 but resisted the international partners' calls to further lower it to 18. Read also: Zelensky offered to buy weapons from incoming Trump administration with frozen Russian assets Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Outgoing U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Jan. 6 that Ukrainian positions in Russia's Kursk Oblast could play an important role in possible talks with Russia, the AFP news agency reported. The Biden administration, whose term expires in a few weeks, has sped up the delivery of military assistance to Ukraine to put Kyiv in the strongest possible position in potential peace negotiations. "Their (Ukraine's) position in Kursk is an important one because certainly it's something that would factor in any negotiation that may come about in the coming year," Blinken told reporters in Seoul. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The comments come at the heels of reports of Ukraine launching new offensive operations in Kursk Oblast after months of being on the defensive. Ukraine launched the cross-border incursion in early August, allegedly seizing 1,300 square kilometers (500 square miles) of Russian soil. Since then, Moscow has deployed reinforcements, including thousands of North Korean soldiers, and reportedly recaptured around half of the lost territory. President Volodymyr Zelensky also called the Kursk incursion an important "trump card" in any potential talks. There are growing expectations of possible peace talks in 2025 as U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who will take office on Jan. 20, pledged to bring both sides to the negotiating table. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump's return to the White House sparked concerns among Ukraine's allies due to the president-elect's past criticism of the Biden administration's support for Kyiv. In comments made since his reelection, Trump hinted at a possible reduction of U.S. assistance but said he would not "abandon" the country, instead aiming to leverage Washington's aid to push Russia to negotiate. Read also: Ukraine launches new offensive in Russias Kursk Oblast, mixed reports surface on outcome Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. (Reuters) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Monday that Russia had suffered heavy losses in five months of fighting Ukrainian forces in southern Russia's Kursk region, with nearly 15,000 killed. "During the Kursk operation, the enemy has already lost 38,000 of their soldiers in this direction alone, with nearly 15,000 of these losses being irreversible," Zelenskiy said in his nightly video address. Zelenskiy, in his remarks, offered no proof of the figures he quoted for Russian losses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine launched a mass incursion into the Kursk region in August and has seized chunks of territory, though Russia's military has said it has recaptured much of that. Ukraine said it launched a new offensive in the region on Sunday, but has given few details. Ukrainian and Western assessments say some 11,000 North Korean troops are fighting alongside Russian forces in the region. Russia has neither confirmed nor denied their presence. Russia's defence ministry said on Monday that the Ukrainian advance had been foiled and the main force had been destroyed near the settlement of Berdin, close to a road running northeast toward the city of Kursk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ministry said Russian forces had made important gains in eastern Ukraine, including the capture of the town of Kurakhove. Zelenskiy made no mention of Kurakhove in his remarks. He said Ukraine's forces had established a buffer zone in Kursk region, where Russia had transferred strong military units, and that had prevented Moscow from deploying those forces to key frontline areas in eastern Ukraine. "Importantly, the occupiers cannot now direct all this force to our other directions, particular to the Donetsk region, Sumy, Kharkiv region or Zaporizhzhia," he said. (Reporting by Ron Popeski and Oleksandr Kozhukhar; Editing by Chris Reese and Bill Berkrot) A Ukrainian teenager has died after being hit by a minibus at a pedestrian crossing in Warsaw. Source: European Pravda, citing Radio Liberty's Ukrainian Service Details: The accident took place on Friday, 3 January at approximately 17:00, when the driver of the minibus ran into the boy at a pedestrian crossing before fleeing the scene. A member of the military who witnessed the accident provided first aid to the teenager at the scene. The boy was rushed to hospital, but later died of his injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Warsaw District Prosecutor's Office reported on 6 January that the deceased was a 14-year-old Ukrainian national. "The deceased is a citizen of Ukraine. The perpetrator is a Polish citizen. After committing the crime, the suspect hid the minibus on the outskirts of Warsaw, where he consumed alcohol with a family member," Piotr Skiba, a spokesman for the District Prosecutor's Office in Warsaw, said at a press conference. When a Radio Liberty reporter inquired whether the deceased was a Ukrainian with temporary protection status, the spokesperson replied that this would be established the following day after investigators had spoken with the victims mother. The 43-year-old driver, Andrzej K., was detained on Saturday, 4 January, the day after the accident, while under the influence of alcohol. He works for a courier service. The prosecutor's office noted that he has a criminal record, including previous charges for drug possession and aiding illegal border crossings. The driver has been charged with causing a fatal accident and fleeing the scene. If convicted, he will face a prison sentence of between 5 and 20 years. Support UP or become our patron! GENEVA/ADEN (Reuters) - The United Nations' Yemen mediator arrived in Yemen's capital on Monday as part of a bid to subdue heightened tensions in his first visit in almost two years, a spokesperson said. The trip comes amid intensified Israeli and U.S. strikes on Houthi strongholds in the past two weeks in response to the Iran-backed militants launching missiles and drones towards Israel. The strikes disrupted operations at Sanaa International Airport, Hodeidah and Saleef ports, which are the main aid entries. The Iran-aligned Houthis have controlled most parts of Yemen, including the capital Sanaa, since seizing power during 2014 and early 2015. They are playing an escalating role in the Middle East in a campaign aimed at supporting Palestinians in the Gaza war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.N. mediator Hans Grundberg aims to "improve the environment for resolution of the conflict (and) prepare the ground for concrete actions for advancing the peace process" in a series of national and regional meetings in the coming days, his spokesperson Ismini Palla told Reuters. Grundberg, a Swedish diplomat, will also push for the release of U.N. staff and others currently being held there, Palla said. He last visited Sanaa in May 2023. In December, he warned the U.N. Security Council that strikes by Houthis on the Red Sea and Israel as well as retaliatory strikes by Israel, the United States and Britain in 2024 had "shrunk the space for my mediation efforts". World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus travelled to Yemen over Christmas in an effort to help negotiate the release of 16 U.N. staff as well as employees of diplomatic missions and NGO workers. He survived an Israeli airstrike on Sanaa International Airport on Dec. 26 ahead of his departure. (Reporting by Emma Farge in Geneva and Mohammed Ghobari in Aden; Editing by Ros Russell) In 2024, the number of foreign tourists that entered south Chinas island province of Hainan visa-free surged by 283 percent compared to the previous year, local authorities said Friday. Hainan handled 2.14 million inbound and outbound trips crossing the border in 2024, with foreign travelers accounting for 47.5 percent of the total, according to the Haikou General Station of Immigration Inspection. Hainan has long enjoyed favorable visa-free entry policies in China. The majority of foreigners who enter Hainan do so under the visa-free entry policy. In recent years, China has introduced numerous measures to facilitate travel for foreign tourists. At the end of last year, the country announced a significant relaxation of its visa-free transit policy, extending the permitted stay for eligible foreign travelers from the initial 72 hours and subsequent 144 hours to 240 hours, or 10 days. According to Rao Jun, who works at the inspection station, the number of border inspection channels in Hainan has grown from 39 to 98, which helped ensure faster, smoother customs clearance. Hainans three main airports, Haikou Meilan International Airport, Sanya Phoenix International Airport and Qionghai Boao International Airport, currently operate 70 international routes, connecting nearly 40 cities worldwide. MDT/Xinhua ST. LOUIS Emergency shelters in St. Louis City are packed as unhoused members of the community are seeking refuge from the blistering cold of the winter storm. As the winter weather continues across the bi-state region, vans are transporting the unhoused to pop-up shelters, providing a warm place to sleep for those in need. Organizers with Peter and Paul Community Services say anyone who comes through their doors will get a warm bed, food, and support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement City leaders are reminding anyone in need of shelter to call 2-1-1 to be connected to available resources. Officials say you can help crews by parking off the street or out of snow routes to give plows space. Authorities are also encouraging residents to stay home if they can. But if you must travel, give yourself extra time to reach your destination, be patient, drive slowly, and stay alert. For more information: Warming Centers in St. Louis City Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. ABINGDON, Va. (WJHL) The United Way of Southwest Virginia (UWSWVA) has raised millions of dollars to help the region recover from Hurricane Helene. The United Way announced on Monday that between Sept. 30 and Dec. 30, 2024, the organization raised more than $2 million through community-based donations. VSP tallies hundreds of crashes Monday morning amid winter storm According to the United Way, the money will be directly distributed to 14 localities affected by Helene to support individual assistance and recovery efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The counties receiving the funding are: Galax Grayson Pulaski Scott Smyth Tazewell Washington Wise Wythe Giles Bland Carroll Montgomery Russell The United Way of Southwest Virginia stated in a news release that it was committed to not deducting any administrative fees from the raised funds. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, these funds will provide critical assistance to those who need it most, Megan Parks, Executive Director of United Way of Southwest Virginia, said in the release. As recovery continues, we remain steadfast in our commitment to helping these communities rebuild and become stronger. Were deeply grateful for the donors, volunteers, and partners who made this possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parks said people from 48 out of 50 states donated to this fund. We knew we needed to have something set up in order to start taking donations because the long-term recovery process was going to be very intensive, very long term, and we wanted to go ahead and start collecting funds as soon as possible so that our citizens can start recovering as soon as possible as well. The funds were disbursed at the end of December. Counties received funding based on the amount of damage they sustained. That was based on damage assessment data from the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM), Parks said. Once we received that data from the Commonwealth, we were able to put together an allocation per county that would help with the repairs and rebuilding of the damage that was experienced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parks said they worked closely with emergency management agencies to evaluate the damage. Smyth County is receiving a little over $200,000. We lost several houses and they werent necessarily swept away, but when you have water two or three feet deep into your house, you pretty much gut the entire house and you start back with frame and 2x4s and try and build back from there, Shawn Utt, Smyth County Town Administrator, said. Utt said driveways, bridges and other infrastructure were also damaged but the countys main concern is water in homes. The Smyth County Community Foundation is also matching donations from United Way up to a certain amount. Utt said its a blessing to receive these funds to help residents rebuild. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its very humbling because every week you have something else that happens that really you think is going to take the attention away from the flood recovery. And it doesnt, Utt said. Folks have stayed committed to seeing it through and weve been blessed with a lot of strong community organizations in the county and outside of the county. Utt asks residents to stay patient as they work to rebuild. Smyth County residents can go to their countys chamber website to see relief resources. Parks told News Channel 11 that the funds will help with minor to major damage, labor, supplies and psychological needs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What is insurance going to cover, what are the gaps in funding that they can help support? Parks said. What are other organizations within each of these communities that can help support them with manual labor and supplies? Thats a huge part of it. What is the case management needs? You know, its not just physical restructure, but its also the mental and physical components that come along with experiencing a disaster. The United Way of Southwest Virginia will also work closely with impacted communities over the next 2-3 years to provide support. Our vision extends beyond recovery, Parks said. We are working to build a specialized division within United Way to focus on disaster response and prevention, ensuring that our region is better equipped to face future challenges. Together, we can rebuild and safeguard our communities for generations to come. The organization created the Southwest Virginia Disaster Rapid Response Fund in January to provide financial resources to help those affected get food, shelter, medical care and other forms of relief. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement United Way of Southwest Virginia will disperse another round of donations in the Spring. To donate or find more information about the United Way, you can check their website or call 423-628-2160. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A local church is asking for winter clothing donations to benefit people in need. Unity Church on Meadville Street in Edinboro is partnering with the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants to collect donations for the refugee community. Erie youth bowlers shoot for scholarship money at annual tournament Because of the weather, one of the churchs leaders said they havent seen as many donations as they would like and are extending the drive until next Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said the drive is a way to build community and help those who are new to the area. Clear bag policy begins this month at Eries Public Schools A lot of the immigrants and refugees that come havent seen snow. I know theres a lot of them that come with families and come with nothing, and a lot of them are in Erie and the children are walking to school in the snow for the first time that theyve seen it. were trying to help out, said Jenn Shepherd, Unity in Edinboro Spiritual Leader. Shepherd said anyone can drop off winter clothes or toiletries at their church on Meadville Street or they can drop it off directly at USCRI on East 26th Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. At least seven babies have died due to cold weather and a lack of shelter in Gaza, the UN's Palestinian aid agency said on Sunday. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) said on X that up to 7,700 newborns in the war-torn territory are living in inadequate accommodation due to the conflict between Israel and the Hamas militant group. The Palestinian WAFA news agency reported in late December that four babies had died of hypothermia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have lost their homes as a result of more than 15 months of fighting in Gaza. Displaced residents are living in tents that offer little protection against the cold and rain, with temperatures dropping below 10 degrees Celsius. The Israeli authority responsible for Palestinian affairs, COGAT, said on X that it is working with international aid organizations such as Rahma Worldwide to provide residents with tents, blankets, warm clothing and hygiene products. More than 20 killed in latest Israeli attacks on Gaza At least 24 people have been killed in the latest attacks carried out by the Israeli military in the Gaza Strip, WAFA reported on Sunday, citing medical sources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three people were killed in an attack in Bureij camp and there were deaths and injuries in the Nuseirat refugee camp and in the area around Khan Yunis, it said. The Israeli military said it had attacked terrorists in a Hamas command centre in the Khan Yunis area. It had also hit a fighter who was attacking from the humanitarian zone in Deir al-Balah, it said. The information from both sides could not initially be independently verified. Israeli Air Force attacks 100 'terror targets' Earlier, the Israeli Air Force said on Telegram it had attacked more than 100 "terror targets" in the Gaza Strip throughout the weekend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dozens of Hamas terrorists were "eliminated" in the process, in response to attacks by Hamas, it said. The military also said it had struck several launch pads said to have been used to fire missiles from the Gaza Strip into Israeli territory. The information could not be independently verified. In the run-up to the attacks, numerous measures were taken to reduce the risk of harm to civilians, according to the military. Israel's military and intelligence services "will continue to operate against the terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip in defense of the citizens of Israel," it said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel has been waging war on Gaza since the Hamas-led October 7, 2023 attacks on Israel in which some 1,200 people were killed and some 250 abducted to Gaza. Much of the Gaza Strip has since been rendered uninhabitable amid the fighting and more than 45,800 people have been killed according to Palestinian estimates. Negotiations to secure a ceasefire and the release of the remaining hostages have been at a stalemate for months. Anticipating overnight snow, Frederick County Public Schools announced on Sunday afternoon that all schools and offices would be closed Monday, Jan. 6. Further, all FCPS after-school and evening activities will be either canceled or postponed, according to the statement. FCPS recommended checking with specific school-based daycare programs, vendors and Parks and Recreation programs in school gyms as those groups are responsible for decisions concerning their schedules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Frederick Mayor Michael OConnor declared a snow emergency in the city beginning at 8 p.m. on Sunday. As part of the snow emergency, all city offices and Parks and Recreation facilities will be closed on Monday. The city said in a statement that it will prioritize Snow Emergency Routes for snow removal. After that, the city will address secondary and neighborhood roads. Downtown City parking garages were open for free off-street parking at 8 p.m. on Sunday, where vehicles can stay until 8 a.m. Tuesday. Property owners are asked to clear sidewalks within 12 hours after snow stops falling, though moving snow into public streets can result in a fine of up to $500. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Snow emergency plan Maryland State Police put a snow emergency plan in effect for Frederick County as of 1:45 a.m. on Monday. The following highways have been designated as snow emergency routes: U.S.: 15, 40, 40 Alternate, 340 Interstates: 70, 270 Md.: 17, 26, 27, 28, 31, 75, 76, 79, 80, 85, 140, 144FA, 180, 194 State law requires motorists to operate vehicles equipped with snow tires as designated by the manufacturer or equipped with chains. Studded tires are allowed Nov. 1 to March 31. No one is allowed to park a vehicle on any highway designated as a snow emergency route. Additional closings: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Frederick County government offices and facilities will be closed Monday. Mount St. Marys University will be closed Monday, as well as the Mount St. Marys Seminary and National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes. Frederick Community College's Main and Monroe campuses will be closed on Monday. All classes and activities are canceled. Students should check Blackboard for any instructor updates. URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) Many property owners in Urbana have 24 hours to clear sidewalks by their property due to a city ordinance. Urbana Public Works Director Tim Cowan declared that the sidewalk snow and ice removal requirement is in effect at 11 a.m. Monday. This gives property owners 24 hours to clear snow and ice from the sidewalks next to their areas. Safe winter driving tips from Illinois State Police Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The requirement is for properties located in the Downtown, University, and South Philo Road snow removal districts. The full boundaries of the snow removal districts can be found on the city of Urbanas website. If properties in those areas do not have their sidewalks clear by 11 a.m. Tuesday, the city can clear it and charge the owner, with more fees and administrative costs applied. Anyone outside of the snow removal districts is still asked to clear sidewalks to make pedestrian travel safe in the city. The City of Urbanas has also outlawed plowing snow from private property onto public streets and sidewalks. Violations of the ordinance may result in fines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with more questions on the sidewalk requirements should call the Code Compliance Inspector in Community Development Services at 217-384-2416. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (This Jan. 6 story has been corrected to remove the stock symbol from Autel Robotics, which was erroneously identified with the symbol of its prior parent firm Autel Group, in paragraph 9) By Michael Martina, David Shepardson and Karen Freifeld WASHINGTON/NEW YORK (Reuters) - The U.S. Defense Department said on Monday it has added Chinese tech giant Tencent Holdings and battery maker CATL to a list of companies it says work with China's military, in a move set to escalate U.S.-China tensions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hong Kong-listed shares of Tencent, the parent of Chinese instant messaging app WeChat, fell 7.3% on Tuesday, losing about HK$275 billion ($35.4 billion) in market value. Shenzhen-listed shares of CATL closed 2.8% lower, shaving off 32.2 billion yuan ($4.4 billion) in market value. Both companies called the move, which comes two weeks before U.S. President-elect Donald Trump takes office, a "mistake". Tencent said on Tuesday its business would be unaffected and that it would initiate a reconsideration process to correct its inclusion and, if necessary, undertake legal proceedings. CATL, the world's largest electric vehicle battery maker, said it was "not engaged in any military-related activities". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the designation does not involve immediate bans, it can be a blow to the reputations of affected companies and represents a stark warning to U.S. entities and firms about the risks of conducting business with them. It could also add pressure on the U.S. Treasury Department to sanction the companies. The annually updated list of Chinese military companies, formally mandated under U.S. law as the "Section 1260H list," designated 134 companies, according to a notice posted to the Federal Register. It also included chip maker Changxin Memory Technologies, Quectel Wireless, drone maker Autel Robotics and China's largest shipping company COSCO Shipping Holdings, according to a document published on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chinese state-owned plane maker Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) was also on the list. Two entities owned by Chinese state-owned oil major China National Offshore Oil Corporation were also listed, CNOOC China Ltd and CNOOC International Trading. CNOOC itself was already on the list. A Quectel spokesperson said the company "does not work with the military in any country and will ask the Pentagon to reconsider its designation, which clearly has been made in error." Quectel's shares fell nearly 7%. COSCO's HK-listed shares dropped more than 4%. It and the other companies did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Chinese foreign ministry told a daily briefing on Tuesday that it urged the U.S. to immediately lift "illegal unilateral sanctions" against Chinese enterprises, adding that China would safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of its companies. IMPACT ON COMPANIES The update to the list is one of numerous actions taken by Washington in recent years to highlight and restrict Chinese companies it says pose security risks, weighing on relations between the world's two biggest economies. Jefferies said in a research note that the purpose of the list was to express the opinion of the Defense Department which could serve as a reference for other government departments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Morningstar senior equity analyst Ivan Su said he believed Tencent had a good chance to secure exclusion through U.S. courts, but that its inclusion could result in reputational damage. Tencent's U.S. earnings exposure was in the high-single-digit percentage range, he added, mostly made up of gaming revenue. "While this represents the maximum potential downside, we see it as highly unlikely that Tencent's U.S. gaming revenue will be affected over the near term." Craig Singleton, a China expert at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, said the additions showed that it was "reckless" for American firms to conduct business with a growing swath of Chinese corporations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The U.S. isn't just safeguarding a handful of technologies anymore," he said. "The garden of sensitive technologies is growing, and the fence protecting them is being fortified." Other companies added include MGI Tech, which makes genomic sequencing instruments, and Origincell Technology, which lawmakers have alleged operates a cell bank network and bio-storage technologies. MGI declined to comment, and Origincell did not immediately respond to a request for comment. U.S. lawmakers had pushed the Pentagon throughout 2024 to add some of the companies, including CATL, to the list. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ford Motor is building a battery plant in Michigan and plans to license CATL technology to produce low-cost lithium-iron batteries at the facility - a move that has sparked concerns by some lawmakers. Ford did not immediately comment on Monday. John Moolenaar, chairman of the House of Representatives' select committee on China, said he was "encouraged" to see the companies added to the Pentagon list. "We cannot allow these loaded guns to threaten our economy and security," Moolenaar said. Two previously listed companies, drone maker DJI and Lidar maker Hesai Technologies, both sued the Pentagon last year over their designations, but remain on the updated list. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Pentagon also removed six companies it said no longer met the requirements for the designation, including AI firm Beijing Megvii Technology, China Railway Construction Corp, China State Construction Group and China Telecommunications Corp. ($1 = 7.7730 Hong Kong dollars) ($1 = 7.3250 Chinese yuan renminbi) (Reporting by Michael Martina and David Shepardson in Washington and Karen Freifeld in New York; Additional reporting by Donny Kwok in Hong Kong and Samuel Shen in Shanghai and Lewis Jackson in Beijing; editing by Matthew Lewis, Saad Sayeed, Michael Perry, Emelia Sithole-Matarise and Jan Harvey) (Reuters) - Airlines in the United States canceled more than 1,300 flights on Monday after a winter storm brought snow, ice and freezing temperatures to a broad swath of the country. A total of 1,306 flights were canceled and 414 flights were delayed, as of 5.13 a.m. ET, according to flight-tracking website FlightAware. Southwest Airlines canceled 264 flights, the most among carriers, followed by American Airlines at 176. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carriers, including Southwest, American, United Airlines and Delta Air Lines, also issued travel advisories warning about an impact due to the storm. The Federal Aviation Administration had warned on Friday that gusty winds, snowfall and some freezing could impact travel in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. (Reporting by Nathan Gomes in Bengaluru; Editing by Shilpi Majumdar) The US Congress is set to convene in Washington on Monday to officially certify the result of the presidential election, in the final procedural step before Donald Trump takes office later this month. Four years ago, Trump's supporters stormed the Capitol building to prevent Democrat Joe Biden from being certified as the winner of the 2020 election. This year, following Trump's uncontested victory in November, the session is expected to run smoothly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrat Kamala Harris, who lost the election to Trump, is to announce the final result at the end of her term as vice president. As president of the Senate, Harris chairs the joint session of the two houses of Congress. Trump won 312 electoral college votes in the election, while Harris secured 226. At the meeting, the results from the individual US states are to be read out and counted. In theory, members of Congress can object to the results from the US states, but this is not expected this year. Trump's inauguration is scheduled for January 20. By Richard Cowan, David Morgan and Bo Erickson WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. Congress formally certified Republican President-elect Donald Trump's election victory on Monday during a session presided over by Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris, who lost the November contest. The quadrennial ritual, clearing the way for Trump's inauguration in two weeks, went like clockwork and stood in sharp contrast to four years ago when a mob of Trump supporters stormed the Capitol in a failed bid to block the certification of then-President Trump's 2020 loss to Democratic President Joe Biden. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump continues to falsely claim that his 2020 defeat was the result of widespread fraud, and had warned throughout his 2024 campaign that he harbored similar concerns until his Nov. 5 defeat of Harris. Harris oversaw the roll call of the states in the vice president's ceremonial role as president of the Senate. Known for her broad smiles and upbeat demeanor in public appearances, she stood stoic with hands clasped on the dais as she handed off certificates of each states electoral votes for Trump and herself. "Today was obviously a very important day, and it was about what should be the norm and what the American people should be able to take for granted, which is that one of the most important pillars of our democracy is that there will be a peaceful transfer of power," Harris told reporters at the Capitol. "I do believe very strongly that American democracy is only as strong as our willingness to fight for it." Four years ago, then-Vice President Mike Pence had to preside over Biden's victory. In 2001, then-Vice President Al Gore had the same dubious distinction following a bitter battle between him and George W. Bush that ended so close that the U.S. Supreme Court ultimately had to put a stop to the legal challenges, leading to Bush being declared the winner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sitting in the House chamber was Senator JD Vance, whose vice presidential victory was also certified by Harris. Vance stood and waved to the members in the chamber when his electoral vote total was announced. "Congress certifies our great election victory today - a big moment in history. MAGA!" Trump wrote on his social media platform Truth Social earlier on Monday. The joint session of Congress proceeded even as a winter storm hovered over the nation's capital, dropping about 6 inches (15 cm) of snow and snarling travel. The final certification backed up preliminary findings that Trump won 312 Electoral College votes to Harris's 226. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement REPUBLICANS CONTROL WHITE HOUSE, CONGRESS Republicans also captured a majority in the U.S. Senate and held a narrow edge in the House in November's election, which will give Trump the party support he needs to implement his planned agenda of tax cuts and a crackdown on immigrants living in the country illegally. Democrats did not try to block certification of Trump's victory on Monday. "We must renew our commitment to safeguarding American democracy," No. 2 House Democrat Katherine Clark said in a statement earlier in the day. "As elected leaders, our loyalty must be to the Constitution, first and always. We are here to honor the will of the people and the rule of law." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Security inside and outside the Capitol was heightened in preparation for the certification and was expected to remain in place through Trump's swearing-in on Jan. 20. The Capitol grounds were ringed by metal fences hundreds of yards from the U.S. Capitol, and accessible only via checkpoints guarded by uniformed police officers. Convoys of black police vehicles were on hand, led by a 10-wheel Baltimore police mobile command center. New York Police Department reinforcements were also patrolling the area. Inside, extra teams of uniformed U.S. Capitol Police officers were checking IDs at entrance sites including doors and underground tunnels leading to the House and Senate chambers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has said he plans to pardon some of the more than 1,500 people charged with taking part in the Jan. 6, 2021, assault on the Capitol, when a mob fought with police, smashing its way in through windows and doors and chanting, "Hang Mike Pence," referring to Trump's then-vice president, in a failed bid to stop Congress from certifying Biden's victory. In the 2021 melee at the Capitol, rioters surged past police barricades, assaulting about 140 officers and causing more than $2.8 million in damage. Multiple police officers who battled protesters died in the weeks that followed, some by suicide. (Reporting by Richard Cowan in Washington; Additional reporting by Katharine Jackson; Editing by Scott Malone, Matthew Lewis and Howard Goller) Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he will again call on allies to boost its air defenses at last weeks meeting in Germany, as U.S. President-elect Donald Trump takes over later this month with a vow to end the almost three-year war quickly. Zelenskyy said that dozens of partner countries will participate in the meeting of the Ramstein group at Ramstein Air Base in Germany on Thursday, including those who can help boost our capabilities not only to defend against missiles but also against guided bombs and Russian aviation. We will discuss this with them and continue to persuade them, Zelenskyy said in his nightly address on Saturday. The task remains unchanged: strengthening our air defense. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin will attend the meeting. Biden was originally scheduled to attend the October summit in Ramstein but it was postponed because of response to Hurricane Milton that battered the U.S. In its last few weeks in office, the Biden administration was pressing to send as much military aid as possible to Ukraine before Trump is sworn in Jan. 20. Trump claimed during his election campaign that he could end the war in one day and his comments have put a question mark over whether the United States will continue to be Ukraines biggest and most important military backer. Zelenskyy said last week that Trump is strong and unpredictable, and those qualities can be a decisive factor in his policy approach to Russias invasion of Ukraine. Russia controls about one-fifth of Ukraine, and capitalized last year on weaknesses in Ukraines defenses to slowly advance in eastern areas despite high losses of troops and equipment. The wars trajectory isnt in Ukraines favor. The country is shorthanded on the front line and needs continued support from its Western partners. Zelenskyy said Saturday that Russian and North Korean troops had suffered heavy losses in the fighting in Russias Kursk region. In battles yesterday and today near just one village, Makhnovka, in the Kursk region, the Russian army lost up to a battalion of North Korean infantry soldiers and Russian paratroopers, Zelenskyy said. This is significant. Zelenskyy said last month that 3,000 North Korean troops had been killed and wounded in Kursk, where Ukrainian forces launched an incursion in August, dealing a blow to Russias prestige and forcing it to deploy some of its troops from a slow-moving offensive in eastern Ukraine. The incursion didnt significantly change the dynamic of the war, and military analysts say Ukraine has lost around 40% of the land it initially captured. In other developments, nine people were wounded in a Russian guided bomb attack on the border town of Semenivka in Ukraines northern Chernihiv region on Saturday evening, local officials said. Moscow sent 103 drones into Ukraine overnight into Sunday, Ukrainian officials said. According to Ukraines air force, 61 drones were destroyed and 42 were lost likely due to electronic jamming. VOLODYMR YURCHUK & ELISE MORTON, KYIV, MDT/AP By Raphael Satter WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. cyber watchdog agency CISA said on Monday there was "no indication" the recently reported breach at the U.S. Treasury Department had affected any other federal agency. Late last month the U.S. Treasury reported that an unspecified number of computers had been compromised by Chinese hackers following a breach at contractor BeyondTrust, which provides cybersecurity services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement BeyondTrust said last month that a limited number of clients were affected but has not elaborated. "As the forensic investigation is ongoing, BeyondTrust is unable to confirm the other customers who may or may not have been impacted," the company said in an email on Monday. The Washington Post has reported that the hackers breached the U.S. Treasury office that administers economic sanctions, aiming in particular to steal information about Chinese entities that the U.S. government might be considering designating for financial sanctions. Republican lawmakers have demanded a briefing about the breach, which is the latest in a series of intrusions blamed on Beijing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, has previously described the Treasury hack reports as "irrational" and represented "smear attacks" against China. (Reporting by Raphael Satter; Editing by Chris Reese and Richard Chang) The Biden administration says it is still hoping to secure a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas in its final two weeks in the White House, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Monday. Blinken, on diplomatic travel in South Korea, said that the past couple of weeks have seen a reintensified engagement, including by Hamas, but there is not yet agreement on final terms. What I can tell you is this: We very much want to bring this over the finish line in the next two weeks, the time that we have remaining. And we will work every minute of every day of those two weeks to try to get that to happen, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President-elect Trump has warned Hamas of hell to pay if hostages taken on Oct. 7, 2023, are not released by his Jan 20 inauguration. Hamas holds an estimated 100 people it kidnapped from southern Israel during its attack, although a majority of those people are believed dead. Among those not yet released are seven Americans. In late November, Hamas released a proof-of-life video of 21-year-old Israeli American Edan Alexander. Israel has subsequently laid waste to the Gaza Strip in its war against Hamas over the past 15 months, with tens of thousands of Palestinian civilians killed, and the International Criminal Court issuing an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over allegations of war crimes. The U.S. has pushed for a ceasefire as the best way to scale up humanitarian aid deliveries to Palestinians in the strip and pause fighting to provide relief to those under siege. But it has also continued supplying Israel with billions of dollars worth of weapons to prosecute its war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an interview with The New York Times published Friday, Blinken said Hamas was the major obstacle to achieving a deal. What weve seen time and again is Hamas not concluding a deal that it should have concluded. Netanyahu has also been accused of shifting the terms of a potential deal and has faced intense pressure at home over his failure to secure the release of hostages. Israeli officials are reportedly in Doha, Qatar, for indirect talks on a deal, with an Israeli official telling The Times of Israel that a major obstacle remains for Hamas to provide the number and names of hostages to be released in a first round. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. By Timothy Gardner and Nidhi Verma WASHINGTON/NEW DELHI (Reuters) - The Biden administration plans to impose more sanctions on Russia over its war on Ukraine, taking aim at its oil revenues with action against tankers carrying Russian crude, three sources with knowledge of the matter said. President Joe Biden's administration has sought to shore up support for Ukraine before President-elect Donald Trump takes office on Jan. 20, given the Republican leader's frequent complaints about the cost of U.S. support for Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's a very substantial package. Two Russian oil companies, more than 100 tankers, oil traders, Russian insurance companies etc.," one of the officials said, without naming the entities. It is unclear what Trump's approach to sanctions on Russia will be. The Biden administration is planning sanctions targeting tankers that carry Russian oil sold above the West's $60 per barrel price cap, the sources said. Even if sold above the price cap, Russian crude has typically sold at a discount to the overall market, and China and India have been willing to purchase supplies. The U.S. admininstration has informed India's foreign ministry about the upcoming sanctions, the first official said, noting a market awash with oil and the fact that oil prices are low could help India meet its crude requirements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement India's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a Reuters' request for comment. A second source said the sanctions were likely to target some of the people involved in the networks trading oil above the price cap. Russia has used a so-called shadow fleet of ageing ships to evade the cap. Many of the vessels are less safe and prone to spilling oil, shipping experts say. Since Russia's February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, the U.S. has sanctioned dozens of the ships, out of a fleet estimated to be in the hundreds, to reduce Moscow's ability to fund the war. U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told Reuters last month that the U.S. was looking at further sanctions on the tankers and would not rule out sanctions on Chinese banks as it seeks to reduce Russia's oil revenue and access to foreign supplies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Sunday. The G7, the EU and Australia imposed the $60 cap on Russian oil in late 2022, banning the use of Western maritime services such as transport, insurance and financing for shipments of oil priced at or above the cap. Last month, the British government sanctioned 20 ships and two trading firms for allegedly being involved in the Russian oil trade. Russia is among the world's top three oil producing countries. (Reporting by Timothy Gardner and Nidhi Verma; Editing by Christian Schmollinger, Florence Tan and Kate Mayberry) A man in Louisiana has become the first person ever to die of H5N1 bird flu in the United States. The patient, a 65-year-old with underlying health conditions, tested positive for the virus in mid-December and was sent to hospital soon after. He is believed to have caught the disease directly from birds kept on his property, the US Centres for Disease Control (CDC) previously said. Local health authorities in Louisiana said no further cases had been detected and there was no evidence of transmission between humans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement H5N1 has swept through US poultry farms and dairy cattle herds in a major outbreak which began last year. Over 900 herds have now been infected across the country, according to the latest figures from the CDC. As a result, more than 60 people have contracted the virus, the vast majority of them agricultural workers who had contact with infected animals. Nearly all of the cases detected so far have presented with mild symptoms, including conjunctivitis and sore throat. However, the Louisiana patient contracted a different strain of the virus, one linked directly to birds rather than the strain circulating amongst dairy cattle. This bird-derived strain is believed to cause more severe illness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In neighbouring Canada, an otherwise healthy teenage girl required several months of treatment in an intensive care unit after catching what was believed to be the bird-derived strain. Over the last 25 years, more than 940 people, largely in Asia and Egypt, have been infected with H5N1 and just under 50 per cent of them 464 people have died. Its not yet understood why the strain circulating in dairy cattle, known as the B3.13 genotype, is causing only mild illness in humans. Scientists say it may have something to do with the way the virus is transmitting, as most patients have contracted H5N1 through contact with milk from infected cows. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its thought that inhaling the virus directly into the airways could make it cause much more severe illness. Another hypothesis is that the strain circulating in cattle is inherently less severe than that from wild birds. Scientists recently discovered H5N1 is just one mutation away from developing the ability to transmit from one person to another, a step that would almost certainly lead to a human pandemic. The British government recently announced that it had procured five million doses of an H5 vaccine, in case the virus does indeed start to spread between humans. Protect yourself and your family by learning more about Global Health Security Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. By Jeff Mason and Kanishka Singh ABOARD AIR FORCE ONE (Reuters) -The White House said on Monday that Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who announced that he will step down in the coming months after nine years in power, has been a "stalwart friend" of the United States. "Prime Minister Trudeau has been a stalwart friend of the United States during his decade leading the Canadian government, we have worked closely together on the full range of issues," White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The President is grateful for the prime minister's partnership with all of that and for his commitment to defending North America from the geopolitical threats of the 21st century," the White House spokesperson added. Trudeau bowed on Monday to pressure from lawmakers alarmed by his Liberal Party's miserable showing in pre-election polls. While Trudeau enjoyed good relations with Democratic President Joe Biden and former President Barack Obama, his relations with Republican President-elect Donald Trump have at times been tense. Trump has been critical of Trudeau and threatened tariffs against Canada. During Trudeau's time in power, Canada renegotiated a trilateral trade deal involving the U.S., Canada and Mexico when Trump was last in office. (Reporting by Jeff Mason, Kanishka Singh and Costas Pitas; Editing by Alistair Bell) Following talks with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul in Seoul, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has stated that Ukraine's strategic position in Russia's Kursk Oblast is crucial to the prospects of any future negotiations. Source: European Pravda, citing AFP Details: AFP reports that Blinken said President Joe Biden's outgoing administration seeks to ensure that "Ukraine has the strongest possible hand to play". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Their position in Kursk is an important one because certainly it's something that would factor into any negotiation that may come about in the coming year," the US secretary of state stressed. Blinken noted that Ukraine will require "adequate security assurances" even if negotiations take place, as Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin is unlikely to view this as "game over". "His imperial ambitions remain, and what he will seek to do is to rest, refit, and eventually re-attack," he stressed. Hostilities in Kursk Oblast. Photo: DeepState, a group of military analysts Background: On 5 January, Ukraine's General Staff stated that Kursk Oblast had become the hottest area of the war zone, noting that 42 combat engagements had taken place there as of 16:00 that day. Recent reports suggest that Washington believes Ukraine may lose control of the territories it currently holds in Russia's Kursk Oblast within the coming months. US intelligence services believe that the deployment of North Korean troops in Russia was North Korea's idea, not Russia's. The Pentagon had previously predicted an increase in casualties among the North Korean military which continues to take part in the fighting in Russia's Kursk Oblast, where Ukrainian forces are conducting operations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Support UP or become our patron! By Phil Stewart WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. President Joe Biden's administration slashed the prisoner population at Guantanamo Bay detention center in Cuba by nearly half on Monday, sending 11 detainees to Oman. The U.S. military said only 15 detainees remained there after the transfer, following a major push towards closing the facility by Biden's administration in its final days in office. The detention center was first opened on Jan. 11, 2002 by President George W. Bush to hold terrorism suspects and "illegal enemy combatants" during the U.S. "War on Terror" following the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks on New York and Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guantanamo Bay housed roughly 680 prisoners at the detention center's peak in 2003, according to Pentagon data. The latest transfer of the 11 men, all of whom are from Yemen, leaves the U.S. naval base in Cuba with fewer detainees than when it opened with the arrival of prisoners from Afghanistan. "The United States appreciates the willingness of the government of Oman and other partners to support ongoing U.S. efforts focused on responsibly reducing the detainee population and ultimately closing the Guantanamo Bay facility," the U.S. military said in a statement. The Pentagon named the 11 men transferred as: Uthman Abd al-Rahim Muhammad Uthman, Moath Hamza Ahmed al-Alwi, Khalid Ahmed Qassim, Suhayl Abdul Anam al Sharabi, Hani Saleh Rashid Abdullah, Tawfiq Nasir Awad Al-Bihani, Omar Mohammed Ali al-Rammah, Sanad Ali Yislam Al Kazimi, Hassan Muhammad Ali Bib Attash, Sharqawi Abdu Ali Al Hajj and Abd Al-Salam Al-Hilah. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of the remaining 15 detainees, the Pentagon said three are eligible for transfer and an equal number are eligible for a periodic review board to examine their cases. The remainder have been charged or convicted of war crimes. The facility has long been criticized by human rights groups and legal advocates over potential breaches of international human rights laws and conditions at the camp. (Reporting by Phil Stewart; Editing by Chris Reese and Lincoln Feast.) U.S. Steel and Japan-based Nippon Steel sued the Biden administration on Monday over a decision made last week to block a merger between the two companies. A proposed acquisition of the second-largest domestic steel producer by Nippon for nearly $15 billion would threaten U.S. national security, the Biden administration said. The two companies allege in their lawsuit that election-season political considerations undermined formal government review of the merger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia alleges that the Biden administration used the government review process as a pretext to reject the merger as a favor to the United Steelworkers (USW) labor union. President Bidens Order is the culmination of a months-long campaign to subvert and exploit the United States national security apparatus for the purpose of keeping a promise made by the President and his advisors to the USW leadership, Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel said Monday in a statement outlining their lawsuit. The decision to block the merger came weeks after a federal committee declined to issue a recommendation on the U.S. Steel-Nippon Steel deal, leaving Biden an opportunity to block the agreement. MORE: Biden blocks US Steel takeover by Japan-based Nippon Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), which is tasked with a review of the potential acquisition, shared concerns about the national security risks posed by the loss of a key domestic steel producer. Biden echoed those national security fears in a statement upon blocking the deal on Friday. "Without domestic steel production and domestic steel workers, our nation is less strong and less secure," Biden said. According to U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel, Biden first announced plans to block the merger in March 2024, before CFIUS began its review of the national security implications of the deal. PHOTO: Signage for Nippon Steel Corp. outside the Marunouchi Park Building, which houses the company's headquarters, in Tokyo, March 25, 2024. (Kiyoshi Ota/Bloomberg via Getty Images, FILE) USW holds a large concentration of workers in the influential swing state of Pennsylvania, U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel said in Monday's statement. The union says it currently has 1.2 million members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CFIUS engaged in a process that was designed to reach a predetermined result: supporting President Bidens political decision, U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel further said in their joint statement Monday. U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel also filed a second lawsuit against Cleveland-Cliffs, another domestic steelmaker, as well as USW President David McCall, alleging they illegally coordinated efforts to stop the merger. Cleveland-Cliffs sought a merger of its own with U.S. Steel, the lawsuit alleges. In the absence of such a merger, Cleveland-Cliffs established an agreement with USW to prevent the acquisition of U.S. Steel by Nippon Steel, the lawsuit claims. The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, also names Cleveland-Cliffs CEO Lourenco Goncalves as a defendant for his alleged involvement in the coordinated activity claimed by the suit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The anticompetitive and unlawful actions were brazen and obvious consisting of public lies, pressure tactics, and an illegal antitrust conspiracy, U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel said in their Monday statement. In a statement to ABC News on Monday, USW President McCall pledged support for the Biden administration's decision to block the merger and vowed to fight the allegations leveled against the USW. "By blocking Nippon Steels attempt to acquire U.S. Steel, the Biden administration protected vital U.S. interests, safeguarded our national security and helped preserve a domestic steel industry that underpins our countrys critical supply chains," McCall said. We are reviewing the complaint and will vigorously defend against these baseless allegations. USW previously applauded the Biden administration's decision to block the merger after it was announced on Friday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement, Cleveland-Cliffs sharply criticized the pair of lawsuits filed on Monday. "Todays lawsuits against the U.S. Government, the USW, and Cleveland-Cliffs represent a shameless effort to scapegoat others for U.S. Steels and Nippon Steels self-inflicted disaster," Cleveland-Cliffs said, in part. "Cleveland-Cliffs and the USW were not the only ones who recognized the adverse national security implications of this acquisition. This deal drew instant bi-partisan opposition, including from President Trump, who has vowed multiple times that he would block the deal," the statement added. Shares of U.S. Steel climbed nearly 4% in pre-market trading on Monday morning. The stock price of Cleveland-Cliffs also climbed about 4% in early trading on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Editor's note: This story was updated to clarify the dollar amount of the proposed merger. US Steel and Nippon Steel sue Biden administration over blocked merger originally appeared on abcnews.go.com By Shivam Patel NEW DELHI (Reuters) -The U.S. government is in the process of removing restrictions on Indian nuclear entities, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said on Monday, in a bid to forge deeper energy ties with New Delhi and bolster a 20-year old landmark nuclear deal. Washington and New Delhi have been discussing supply of U.S. nuclear reactors to energy-hungry India since the mid-2000s and a deal signed by then President George W. Bush in 2007 allowed the United States to sell civilian nuclear technology to India. But a longstanding obstacle has been the need to bring Indian liability rules in line with global norms which require the costs of any accident to be channeled to the operator rather than the maker of a nuclear power plant. "United States is now finalizing the necessary steps to remove long-standing regulations that have prevented civil nuclear cooperation between India's leading nuclear entities and U.S. companies," Sullivan said at an event in New Delhi on the second day of a two-day visit. It was not immediately clear what changes would be made to the regulation, and U.S. and Indian officials did not share any further details. "The formal paperwork will be done soon, but this will be an opportunity to turn the page on some of the frictions of the past and create opportunities for entities that have been on restricted lists in the United States to come off those lists," he added. The United States had placed restrictions on more than 200 Indian entities after India tested nuclear weapons in 1998, but many have been taken off the list over the years as bilateral ties evolved, an Indian official said, requesting anonymity. The U.S. Department of Commerce's list currently includes at least four entities of India's Department of Atomic Energy, and some Indian nuclear reactors and nuclear power plants. India's stringent nuclear compensation laws have previously hurt deals with foreign power plant builders, leading the country to defer its target to add 20,000 MW of nuclear power from 2020 to 2030. In 2019, India and the U.S. agreed to build six U.S. nuclear power plants in India. (Reporting by Shivam Patel, writing by Tanvi Mehta; Editing by YP Rajesh and Hugh Lawson) The Scoop A leading Congressional Democrat is demanding a briefing from the US Treasury Department about a cybersecurity breach that is said to have affected the agencys sanctions office. In a letter sent Monday and shared first with Semafor, Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Ill., the top Democrat on the House select committee on China, raised concerns about the breach to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and asked for a meeting to discuss the situation by Jan. 15. A Treasury official told Semafor that the agency has already offered briefings to Congress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even unclassified information could reveal a great deal about forthcoming Treasury actions that utilize our nations economic toolkit, Krishnamoorthi wrote in the letter. The national security implications of China-related breaches, he added, remain devastating. It is imperative that Treasury redouble its efforts to protect its data and systems to prevent any future incidents, he wrote. Know More The Treasury disclosed the breach in a letter to Congress last month, saying that hackers sponsored by China gained access in December to the departments systems through a third-party provider called BeyondTrust. The breach impacted the Treasurys Office of Foreign Assets Control as well as the Office of the Treasury Secretary, The Washington Post reported. Notable The White House is hoping to see a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas concluded before Joe Biden leaves office, Antony Blinken has said. The US Secretary of States comments, which come ahead of Donald Trumps inauguration on Jan 20, were made during a press conference as he was quizzed on renewed efforts to reach a deal. Mr Blinken told reporters: We very much want to bring this over the finish line in the next two weeks, the time we have remaining. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It comes after Hamas claimed it had provided Israel with the names of 34 hostages that would be released under the first phase of a ceasefire deal. A source familiar with the negotiations told The Telegraph that the list, which includes children, women and the elderly, did not include any information on which hostages were still alive. Israel of course demands that the hostages released are alive and not corpses. So until theres a clarification on the list, theres still work to be done to agree on the ceasefire, they said. The source added that Israel had agreed which Palestinian prisoners would potentially be released in return. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The office of Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, said Hamas had not provided its own list of hostages and the names were the same ones given to mediators by Israel in July last year. Antony Blinken, the US Secretary of State, made the comments during a press conference in South Korea - Chung Sung-Jun/POOL/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock The US, Israel, and Hamas have suggested a deal is close but that the Israeli armys continued presence in Gaza has prevented an agreement from being completed. Israel has insisted it wants to retain control of the Philadelphi Corridor, a buffer zone along the Egypt-Gaza border, as well as a military presence in the Netzarim Corridor, which separates northern and southern Gaza. The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, stressed that Israel would respect any ceasefire deal but would continue to battle Hamas following a pause in fighting, so long as the terror group retains any presence in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They added: It will be a ceasefire, where the international system along with Israel will hopefully manage to solve the issue of Hamas having any influence in Gaza. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, a campaign group, called on the Israeli government to reach a comprehensive agreement that will bring back all hostages following the leak of the hostages list. It said in a statement: We know more than half are still alive and need immediate rehabilitation, while those who were murdered must be returned for proper burial. Mr Blinkens comments came as David Barnea, Israels intelligence chief, was reportedly scheduled to depart for yet another round of talks in Qatar on Monday. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Six critically burned patients arrived in Phoenix from Hawaii on Saturday night, following a New Year's Eve firework tragedy that left three dead and over 20 injured. The six patients, who are in their 20s and 30s, are in critical condition and have burns covering 60% to 80% of their bodies, said Valleywise Health chief clinical officer Dr. Michael White. White said all six have a good chance of survival and that Valleywise Health does not expect more patients to be flown in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hawaii's only burn center is located on Oahu where the incident took place, but beds are limited. White said the Diane and Bruce Halle Arizona Burn Center in Phoenix, Arizona's only burn center and one of the largest in the country, has the ability to help. "When the call is made, we're more than happy, if we have the capacity and expertise, to help these patients," White said. According to Hawaii Gov. Josh Green, the six were chosen due to the severity of traumatic injuries and burns sustained during the incident. Green authorized a C-17 military transport to fly them into Phoenix and it arrived at Sky Harbor International Airport around 8:30 p.m. Saturday. Our heartfelt prayers go out to the resilient survivors and their families affected by the Aliamanu (Salt Lake) fireworks tragedy. As they are transported to an Arizona burn center aboard a C-17 military plane, they carry with them the strength and support of our entire state. pic.twitter.com/FeYqrWDUUG Governor Josh Green (@GovJoshGreenMD) January 4, 2025 On X, Phoenix mayor Kate Gallego applauded Phoenix Fire's efforts to transport the patients from Sky Harbor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Phoenix fire officials collaborated with both state and federal agencies, including the Department of Defense, to ensure the patients were transported to Valleywise Health safely. "This shows our dedication to saving lives beyond our state borders," a Phoenix Fire Department spokesperson said. Among those flown into Arizona was a mother of a 3-month-old. On the cusp of New Year's Day, three people died and over 20 were injured from a firework explosion around midnight in the Aliamanu, also known as the Salt Lake, neighborhood near Pearl Harbor and Honolulu on Hawaii's third largest island. What caused the explosion? In a Jan. 1 press conference from the Honolulu Police Department, authorities said a person lit a firework "cake" containing around 50 individual aerial fireworks that somehow tipped over, shooting into other crates also filled with fireworks and resulting in the fatal explosion. Authorities estimated fireworks recovered at the scene cost tens of thousands of dollars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It looked like a war zone," Honolulu Fire Chief Sheldon Hao said during the press conference. Videos posted on social media appear to show dozens of fireworks exploding in a massive, bright blaze, with plumes of smoke rising in the air. The blast appeared to explode on a resident's front lawn, along a dense neighborhood street dotted with parked cars. Twenty-three adults and three children were seriously and critically injured in the explosion, though the estimate does not account for those who admitted themselves into the hospital, authorities said. Two women died at the scene and a third passed away a few hours later. "Make no mistake, it was a bomb ... it was a firework bomb," Gov. Green said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most people injured sustained burns, but injuries also included those caused by shrapnel that were "gruesome," said Honolulu Emergency Services Department director Dr. Jim Ireland at the press conference. Honolulu police said the person who lit the fireworks, as well as those who potentially supplied the illegal ones, may face criminal prosecution pending the investigation. A fourth person died due to an unrelated firework incident in the Kalihi area about six miles away. 'Best left to the professionals' Fireworks are fundamentally dangerous, Dr. White from Valleywise Health noted. "They are explosive devices. (There's) risk for burns and risk for injuries such as this," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Phoenix, any firework that is designed to shoot off the ground is illegal and can carry a misdemeanor charge, fines or jail time, according to Sgt. Brian Bower with Phoenix police. Fines for illegal fireworks vary per city: Avondale: $1,000. Chandler: $1,000. Gilbert: $1,000. Glendale: $1,500 on first offense, $2,000 on second offense. Goodyear: $1,000. Mesa: First offense $500; each subsequent offense between $1,000 and $2,500. Peoria: $750. Phoenix: $1,000. Queen Creek: $1,000. Tempe: $1,000. Tolleson: $250. Scottsdale: Minimum fine of $275. Surprise: No less than $150, no more than $1,000. Cities also can hold residents liable for fire damage and emergency responses related to fireworks use. "Fireworks should be left to the professionals," White said. Multiple GoFundMe pages have been started to aid those who were injured or died in the New Year's Eve incident. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Patients flown in from Hawaii for treatment at Scottsdale burn center UPDATE: All lanes of traffic along Gateway East at Lee Trevino and all lanes of traffic along I-10 near the crash site have reopened, TxDOT said. The Gateway was closed for about two hours. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) Traffic is being impacted in East El Paso after at least three vehicles were involved in a crash that resulted in one of the vehicles veering off Interstate 10 East and onto Gateway East near Zaragoza on Monday, Jan. 6, fire dispatch said. Fire dispatch said the call came in at 12:15 p.m. at I-10 right before the Zaragoza exit ramp. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two people were transported to a local hospital with minor injuries, fire dispatch said. Other people were checked on the scene but only two people were transported. In addition, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) said the crash closed all lanes at Gateway East at Lee Trevino. There is no backup, and the clearing time is until further notice, TxDOT said. This is a developing story and we will update once we learn more. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (Bloomberg) -- The Venezuela opposition leader the US has recognized as president-elect met President Joe Biden just days before Donald Trump takes over in Washington and faces his own decision about how to handle relations with a country thats a major source of undocumented immigrants. Most Read from Bloomberg Edmundo Gonzalez, who voting records show won the most votes in last Julys presidential election over Nicolas Maduro, said he had a long, successful and cordial conversation with Biden on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are grateful for the support that the US government has given us in this struggle for democratic recovery in Venezuela, Gonzalez told reporters outside the White House. He said his staff has been in contact with Trumps team for some time now, adding that they would continue on that same path because our relations are going to be very, very close. In a statement issued by the White House,Biden said the world was inspired by the millions of Venezuelans who courageously voted on July 28 and reiterated the USs support for the countrys democratic aspirations. Biden noted he would be following the planned Jan. 9 protests in Venezuela closely and will continue to hold Maduro and his officials accountable for their anti-democratic and repressive actions. Venezuelas election authority declared Maduro the winner without presenting evidence, and the authoritarian leader is slated to begin a third term in the South American nation this week. Biden administration officials were key to negotiations between Maduros regime and the opposition to make the elections possible, including a related easing of US sanctions. The outgoing US presidents embrace of Gonzalez as the peoples choice complicates matters for Trump, who would need cooperation from Maduro to deport Venezuelans back home, after millions left because of economic hardship under the current regime. Gonzalez has been so far unable to schedule a meeting with Trump representatives during his trip to the US. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps position on whether to support Venezuelan opposition forces during his second term is a subject of hot speculation. Nominated Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a Cuban-American senator from Florida, has been one of the Maduro governments fiercest critics. He introduced a bill seeking to increase a reward for Maduros arrest to $100 million and has been vocal about his dislike of Bidens Venezuela policy. But other appointees in the new Trump White House argue that a hard line against Venezuela hasnt worked and that more engagement is needed. Gonzalez has vowed to return to Venezuela on Jan. 10 to be sworn in as new president. Maduros officials, however, have threatened to try him for conspiracy to overthrow the government, among other crimes. As soon as he steps one foot in the country well arrest him, Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello told reporters Monday in Caracas. Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino also rejected as ridiculous Gonzalezs call Sunday for the military to respect the constitution and allow his inauguration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gonzalez, a little-known former ambassador before his presidential run in 2024, was forced to flee to Spain in September after the government issued an arrest warrant against him. He served as a stand-in for Maria Corina Machado, the oppositions most popular figure, who was the overwhelming winner of a 2023 primary but was barred from running in the election. Last week, the Venezuelan regime offered a $100,000 reward for information leading to Gonzalezs capture. Since the vote, other political leaders and activists from the main coalition of opposition parties known as the Unitary Platform have fled the country. Gonzalezs meeting with a broader group of ambassadors at the Organization of American States was canceled due to weather conditions in Washington. But the opposition leader planned to rally supporters on the front steps of the OAS building Monday afternoon, according to people familiar with his plans. --With assistance from Maria Paula Mijares Torres and Fabiola Zerpa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (Updates to add White House comment in fourth paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) The Venezuelan opposition leader who claims to have defeated President Nicolas Maduro in last years presidential election met Monday with U.S. President Joe Biden just days ahead of Maduro's contested inauguration to a third term. Biden's White House meeting with Edmundo Gonzalez, who represented Venezuelas main opposition coalition in the July presidential election, took place as the retired diplomat tries to rally support for his effort to get Maduro out of office by Friday, when by law, the South American country's next presidential term begins. Biden and Gonzalez agreed that Gonzalez's campaign victory should be honored through a peaceful transfer back to democratic rule, according to a White House readout of the meeting. Both men also expressed serious concerns regarding "Maduro and his representatives unacceptable and indiscriminate use of repression against peaceful protesters, democracy activists, and civil society. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gonzalez began a tour of the Americas on Saturday with stops in Argentina and Uruguay. His campaign called on Venezuelans living in the Washington area to gather with him Monday outside the offices of the Organization of American States. Carolina di Martino Popovich waved and cheered in freezing temperatures outside the OAS, accompanied by her daughters Isabella, 1, and Camila, 6, and her mother Petra Gambor. Di Martino Popovich and Gambor are longtime immigrants from Venezuela. We drove 10 hours in the snowstorm from Boston, and we made it, di Martino Popovich said. That is how much he means to us. We couldnt vote in Venezuela, but we are here to recognize him as our president. Meanwhile, Maduro already has received an invitation from the National Assembly to be sworn in for a third six-year term Friday, more than five months after the National Electoral Council, stacked with ruling-party loyalists, declared him winner of the July 28 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 2,000 people, including minors, were arrested during nationwide post-election demonstrations. Opposition leaders, lawyers, activists and journalists were among those detained. Unlike previous presidential elections, electoral authorities did not provide detailed vote counts. However, the opposition collected tally sheets from more than 80% of the nations electronic voting machines, posted them online and said they showed Gonzalez had won the election with twice as many votes as Maduro. The U.S.-based Carter Center, which Maduros government invited to observe the presidential election, has said the tally sheets published by the opposition are legitimate. The U.S. and most European governments have rejected the elections official results and consider Gonzalez the legitimate winner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We had a long, fruitful and cordial conversation with President Biden and his team, Gonzalez told reporters. We, of course, thanked the United States government for the support it has given us in this fight for democratic recovery in Venezuela. That is a commitment that we take with us and that we will continue to follow until the last day of the presidents government. When asked on Monday about Gonzalez's plans, Venezuela's Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello insulted the politician, attacked his credibility and threatened him with arrest. He also insisted that Maduro would be sworn in Friday. Coward, Cabello said, referring to the retired diplomat, whom he accused, without offering any proof, of being a CIA agent. He has neither courage nor disposition... Mr. Gonzalez Urrutia knows that as soon as he steps in Venezuela, he will be arrested. Gonzalez, who represented the Unitary Platform coalition, left Venezuela for exile in Spain in September after a judge issued a warrant for his arrest in connection with an investigation into the publishing of the election's tally sheets. Last week, the government announced a $100,000 reward for information on Gonzalez's whereabouts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gonzalez on Monday also met with Rep. Mike Waltz, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's designate to be his national security adviser once he's sworn in on Jan. 20. In recent weeks, Gonzalez has vowed to travel to Venezuela to be sworn in for the presidential term, but he has not explained how he plans to return or wrest power from Maduro, whose party controls all institutions and the military. On Sunday, Gonzalez addressed Venezuela's armed forces in a social media video, reminding them that according to the constitution, he must assume the role of commander in chief on Friday and that they are "called to be a guarantee of sovereignty and respect for the popular will. But Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino on Monday said the armed forces will recognize Maduro as president on Inauguration Day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We categorically and with absolute vehemence reject this clownish and buffoonish act of despicable politicking, which will not have the slightest impact on the robust patriotic conscience of the (Venezuelan armed forces), Padrino said in an address to the nation on state television. Miller reported from Washington. Associated Press photographer Jacquelyn Martin in Washington contributed to this report. On a day replete with political symbolism for both parties, Vice President Kamala Harris on Monday officially acknowledged President-elect Donald Trump as the winner of the 2024 election, certifying the electoral college votes. While the certification of votes served as a ceremonial completion to the turbulent 2024 election, the day also marked a momentous anniversary of the violent mob that stormed the Capitol four years ago, when Trump supporters attempted to disrupt the count. Those scarring events were not far from lawmakers' minds, as many released statements ahead of time commemorating the dark day. But the president-elect was ready to cast a more jubilant tone on his Truth Social page early Monday, calling it A BIG MOMENT IN HISTORY. MAGA! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Trump was absent for the ceremony, his onetime opponent from California kept the proceedings civil and businesslike. Harris strode purposefully into the House chamber in a plum-colored suit, leading the senators to the joint session of Congress. She stood stoically at the dais, crossing her hands or passing along manila envelopes with the electoral college vote certificates, as the drone of each state's official vote count was read including those from states that voted for her. Ironically, the senators submitted each count to her with the honorific "Madam President," as Harris served in her capacity as president of the Senate. After just 30 minutes, Harris concluded the tally: "Donald J. Trump from the state of Florida has received 312 votes," she said, as the House erupted into applause. She smiled widely and, after a moment, hammered her gavel to call the chamber to order. Then, she announced her own results: "Kamala D. Harris from the state of California has received 226 votes." Read more: Hundreds of Capitol riot prosecutions in limbo as D.C. court awaits Trump's White House return Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Again, the chamber burst into cheers as her Democratic colleagues gave Harris a standing ovation. Once again, the vice president smiled and, after a moment, hammered the gavel for order. Following the swift proceedings, Harris huddled with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) before telling reporters that she did what I have done my entire career, which is take seriously the oath that I have taken many times, to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. "I do believe very strongly that Americas democracy is only as strong as our willingness to fight for it. Every single person their willingness to fight for and respect the importance of our democracy," she said. "Otherwise it is very fragile and it will not be able to withstand moments of crisis. And today, Americas democracy stood." Harris joins a small club of vice presidents who lost their bids for president and were required to certify the results among them Al Gore and Richard Nixon. In 2021, then-Vice President Mike Pence officially certified the results in which he lost his vice presidential bid drawing contempt from his running mate. Today, I will perform my constitutional duty as Vice President to certify the results of the 2024 election. This duty is a sacred obligation one I will uphold guided by love of country, loyalty to our Constitution, and unwavering faith in the American people. pic.twitter.com/w21HzdNxGs Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) January 6, 2025 What was once a perfunctory duty of Congress certifying the electoral college votes from all states became an international debacle in 2021, when people upset about Trumps reelection defeat in 2020 forced their way into the Capitol to disrupt the process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thanks to the resilience of our institutions and the bravery of U.S. Capitol Police officers who risked their lives, this assault on our democracy failed. Yet, attacks on the right to vote and the very foundation of our democracy persist, said Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) in a statement. The riot, which unfolded on live television, immediately drew bipartisan condemnation. House leaders convened a committee to investigate the Jan. 6 rioters and law enforcement from across the country cracked down, leading to hundreds of convictions. But dueling political narratives quickly took hold. Read more: 'I really thought that I was going to die.' Members of Congress remember Jan. 6 By the time of the 2024 election, Trump had characterized Jan. 6, 2021, as a day of love and promised to pardon many of the rioters. Family members and supporters of those arrested after Jan. 6 frequently attended Trumps campaign events. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats used the Jan. 6 attacks as evidence of a fragile democracy at risk of toppling under a second Trump administration. President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris frequently portrayed Trump as a danger to democracy though Republicans threw the insult back, alleging that Democrats stole the 2020 election. Democrats, who clearly lost in November, hammered a familiar line Monday: We are not sore losers. History will always remember the attempted insurrection and we will never allow the violence that unfolded in plain sight to be whitewashed," Jeffries said in a statement Monday morning. But for other lawmakers who endured the brutality of Jan. 6, 2021, the memory was still vivid. Rep. Jim Costa (D-Fresno) called it "the saddest day" of his years in Congress. He scrolled through photos on his phone from four years prior, recalling the moment he ducked between chairs in the upper gallery of the House chamber. "We were trapped up there for 40 minutes. It was surreal. I thought to myself, through difficult times war, depression, whatever our country's been through, how resilient our democracy has been. I thought on that day, how fragile our democracy can be," Costa said. "It's reinforcement that we should never forget that day. That our democracy as resilient as it has been, as strong as it has been, a beacon of light, the oldest democracy in the world yet that day, it looked like a Third World country." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several layers of security surrounded the Capitol buildings Monday morning, but the campus was mostly quiet as a snowstorm blanketed Washington in white. Police presence was ramped up throughout the capital. Get the L.A. Times Politics newsletter. Deeply reported insights into legislation, politics and policy from Sacramento, Washington and beyond, in your inbox three times per week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Veterans who were kicked out of the military under policies that prohibited gay and lesbian service members would have an expedited way to get their discharge status upgraded or references to their sexuality removed from their paperwork under a settlement agreement announced Monday. The settlement, which still needs to be formally approved by a judge, would bring to an end a class-action lawsuit that was filed in 2023 by veterans who were discharged under "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" or similar earlier bans on gay service members. It would offer a remedy to thousands of veterans who continue to face difficulties in getting their discharges upgraded and accessing veterans benefits more than a decade after the repeal of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy that effectively banned gay troops. "Coming from a family with a long history of military service, I was beyond proud to enlist in 1985 to contribute to my country," Sherrill Farrell, a Navy veteran who is one of the plaintiffs in the lawsuit, said in a news release about the settlement. "When I was discharged because of my sexual orientation, I felt that my country was telling me that my service was not valuable -- that I was 'less than' because of who I loved. Today, I am once again proud to have served my country by standing up for veterans like myself and ensuring our honor is recognized." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read Next: Deadline Extended for Tricare Beneficiaries in West Region to Update Payment Info, Keep Health Coverage The settlement has two prongs, according to the news release and court filings. For those who have less-than-honorable discharges, they will be able to opt into a group review process to upgrade their discharges, allowing them to bypass a yearslong individual application process. For anyone who already has an honorable discharge or who has an uncharacterized/entry-level discharge, the settlement will allow them to request an administrative change to their DD-214s to remove any references to their sexual orientation without a formal Board of Corrections review. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawyers for the plaintiffs estimate more than 30,000 veterans could qualify for the new streamlined processes in the settlement. "This proposed settlement is a historic step forward, providing LGBTQ+ veterans with a critical opportunity to request revisions to their discharge records," Radha Manthe, a pro bono lawyer with King and Spalding on the plaintiff's legal team, said in the news release. "For too long, veterans who were unjustly discharged had to navigate a confusing and burdensome system to correct their records. This settlement brings a much-needed resolution by simplifying that process and restoring the dignity that these veterans rightfully deserve for their service." Asked for comment about the settlement, the Defense Department referred Military.com to the Justice Department, which did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Veterans who were discharged under "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" and earlier policies were already able to apply to have their discharges upgraded, but the lawsuit argued the previous process was burdensome, traumatizing and violated veterans' constitutional rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Having a less-than-honorable discharge cuts off access to some Department of Veterans Affairs benefits, including home loans, tuition assistance and health care. In addition to the effect on VA benefits, the lawsuit argued that having a DD-214 that references sexuality forces a veteran to "out" themselves in any situation in which they might need to prove they are a veteran, such as on a job application. Last year, the Pentagon announced it was automatically upgrading the discharges of more than 800 former service members who were kicked out of the military under "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." After Pentagon officials started the proactive review of some "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" records, they sought to have the lawsuit dismissed, but a judge ruled that the case should continue because the plaintiffs "suffer new injuries attributable to [the Pentagon] each time they must present their paperwork disclosing their sexual orientation to obtain benefits or are unable to access benefits." Settlement negotiations started after the judge declined to dismiss the case, according to the proposed settlement filed Monday in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The streamlined processes created by the settlement will be available for at least three years, according to the proposed agreement. The first group application for upgraded discharges will happen nine months after the settlement is approved and continue on a rolling basis every three months, according to the agreement. "This settlement is not just about correcting records; it's about restoring the honor and pride that LGBTQ+ veterans have always deserved but were denied," Lilly Steffanides, a Navy veteran who is also a plaintiff, said in the news release. "I hope this brings justice to others who served with courage, only to face exclusion and discrimination." Related: Veterans Discharged Under 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' and Earlier Bans Sue Pentagon to Correct Records Staci Foulks leads her dog, Greta, through an agility course. Photo courtesy Staci Foulks Staci Foulks and her dog, Greta, were inseparable. She was the kind of dog that would follow me into the bathroom. I couldnt go to the bathroom alone, because Greta would be there staring at me, she said. On her lunch breaks, Foulks would often come home to Greta and take the Swedish Vallhund out to the forest near her home in Flagstaff so the two could use up some of their pent up energy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a way, she kind of became my unofficial emotional support animal, Foulks said. When Foulks was pregnant in 2021, Greta moved into the role of protector, laying her head on Foulks belly. The following year, when Greta started acting strange, wanting to go outside to the bathroom over and over and over, all day long, Foulks knew to take her to their family veterinarian. Thats when things quickly started to go downhill. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The vet wanted to get a urine sample, suspecting a urinary tract infection, and used an invasive procedure to do so. The vet stuck a needle through Gretas abdomen in a procedure called cystocentesis to obtain the urine, something Foulks was unaware of. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In records obtained by Foulks, vet technicians voiced concern over the procedure, but the vet went ahead with it anyway. Shortly after, Greta collapsed. Vet techs sprang into action and performed CPR on Greta as Foulks watched, but they were unable to revive her. An autopsy found a large volume of blood in Gretas abdomen, a large volume of clotted blood behind the bladder and kidneys and a laceration that was consistent with complications from the cystocentesis. Foulks was devastated. Her companion for the past five years was now gone, and she was there to witness it all. She didnt know if she could trust a vet again. And her faith in the system was shaken even more when the state board that oversees veterinarians, and is charged with holding them accountable when they make mistakes, concluded that the doctor who botched the cystocentesis and killed Greta didnt do anything wrong. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Foulks case is not an isolated event. The Arizona Mirror has reviewed cases released by an advocacy group that is trying to bring more transparency to a process that is supposed to hold veterinarians accountable for bad actions, but that critics say is utterly failing to do so because its essentially a situation where the fox is guarding the henhouse. The Arizona State Veterinary Medical Examining Board, the states regulatory agency that oversees licensing and discipline for vets, routinely dismisses cases of abuse. The result is animal owners are left dismayed about what they see as a lack of accountability, something critics say is largely due to the fact that the board consists mostly of veterinarians, who are expected to be objective while reviewing complaints against colleagues. It kinda felt like an old boys club, like theyre protecting their own, Foulks said of her experience with the board. It really left me confused, feeling gaslighted and even more anxious about the world in general. Can I ever trust a vet again? What is the veterinary board? Arizona has dozens of regulatory boards that oversee the issuing of licenses and other functions for a host of professions. To ensure there is a level of subject matter expertise on these boards, they are largely made up of people within those professions, whether that be veterinarians, architects, nurses or dentists. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But licensing is only one duty of those boards: They are also responsible for investigating and resolving complaints made against the licensees. For example, if a dentist removes the wrong tooth and then refuses to remove the right one, the patient can file a complaint against that dentist. If the board determines the dentist violated professional rules or state laws, they could face sanctions, including having their license revoked. But the boards are far from perfect, and often take long periods of time to investigate complaints, according to audits of many of these boards by the Arizona Auditor Generals Office. The Arizona State Veterinary Medical Examining Board is no different. It really left me confused, feeling gaslighted and even more anxious about the world in general. Can I ever trust a vet again? Staci Foulks on her experience with the Arizona State Veterinary Medical Examining Board A review of the board conducted in 1997 found the board did not appropriately discipline veterinarians and that as many as one out of every six complaints dismissed by the board should have resulted in some discipline. State auditors havent looked at the boards operations in the 27 years since. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That finding is one that some are saying is still an issue. Foulks appealed the boards October 2022 dismissal of her complaint. When she finally got her opportunity to address the board about Gretas death in April 2024, she was nervous, but prepared: An attorney herself, Foulks had done her research and even brought in an outside expert to provide testimony about her complaint. But things did not go the way she had planned. The board told her that they had no obligation to hear a second opinion after their investigation found no wrongdoing on the part of the vet who performed the cystocentesis that ultimately led to Gretas death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Foulks even recalled that one of the board members rolled her eyes as she spoke. Neither the veterinarian or her attorney showed up. I dont think anytime in my life Ive felt that angry and disappointed, Foulks said. They led me to believe they cared and that theyd listenI have trouble not using expletives when explaining what happened. It kept gnawing at me Foulks experience is not an isolated one. It is like having the judiciary overseeing the judiciary, Veronica Postel told the Mirror. Postel went to the board after an experience with a veterinarian that left her worried for the health and well-being of other pets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Postels cat, Jasmine, had spent a day vomiting and with diarrhea, so she took her to the nearest 24-hour emergency veterinarian because it was too late in the day for her normal veterinarian. The first thing they did was take her cat away from her and perform an exam out of her sight. When the veterinarian came back, she said that there was some sort of string attached to Jasmines tooth that was going down her throat, which Postel found odd. The veterinarian then began to say that it was creating a sawing motion in Jasmines throat and gut, explaining that theyd need to perform emergency surgery. Postel said she felt something was off, and when she asked if she could see the string and her cat, the vet left the room reluctantly. After bringing Jasmine back into the room, they both peered into her mouth to see no string. The vet, she said, quickly changed her tune, saying that it was instead an intestinal blockage. She even brought in an x-ray and started theorizing about where it could be. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cost of the surgery would be $3,000, and the veterinarian pressed Postel to authorize it, saying Jasmine could die that night if it wasnt fixed. But Postel said things felt off. Then they took an even stranger turn. After Postel refused the surgery to fix the suspected intestinal blockage, the vet then suggested exploratory surgery to find the problem. Postel had enough. She insisted no surgery was needed and was forced to sign paperwork saying she was leaving against medical advice, leaving with a $500 bill and anti-nausea medicine. To sum it up, it was an absolutely both horrific and surreal experience, Postel said. Ive never been treated by a veterinarian like I was, and it was almost a Twilight Zone experience. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Postel left, the vet said shed have the radiologist look at the images to make sure they were making the right call. The next morning, she got a call confirming her suspicions: there was no blockage. It kept gnawing at me, Postel said. If she is doing this to me, they are doing it to other people. She remembered feeling guilty that her decision to refuse surgery even as the vet told her there was a high chance Jasmine would die would prove fatal for her cat. But Jasmine recovered without surgery, so Postel went to the board to file a complaint and express her concerns over what she saw as a practice of pushing a costly procedure on a panicked pet owner. The board ruled that the whole incident was due to miscommunication and Postel being stressed about her cat; her complaint was ultimately dismissed. It was a completely futile loss of my time, and they do not seem to really care, she said of the board. My cat could have had an extremely invasive surgery These facilities need to have oversight. Postel said she believes that pushing for surgery, based only on inconclusive x-rays that hadnt been reviewed by a radiologist, shows that they were acting in bad faith, pushing for a pricey surgery that many could not afford or would have to go into debt to pay off. When you are in crisis mode, it is very difficult to think, and I think that is a breeding ground for people making a lot of money, Postel said. But Postel was lucky: Her cat survived the encounter with a bad vet. The consequences for many Arizonans are much worse. Postel and Foulks are part of a larger group of people who are beginning to advocate for change to the system and laws around animals. They are spurred on by tragic tales of negligence by veterinarians who are not held to account by a regulatory body made up of their friends and colleagues. Frederick John Milens III has been taking charge on this issue as a vet victim himself. Milens began filing public records requests for complaints made to the board, to see if his own experience was an outlier or par for the course. What he found shocked him, and he soon started reaching out to others like Postel and Foulks about their experiences. He founded the Veterinary Victims League after the board accused him of making his own dog sick when rationalizing its decision to not pursue any disciplinary action in his case. Milens journey began after his dog, Cody, began having episodes of weakness. Cody was passed along from vet to vet, with differing ideas of what was wrong, and was given a multitude of procedures and medicine. The different vets could not agree on how to treat Cody, and he eventually died at home. None of the doctors admitted any responsibility for what had happened, according to Milens. Some of the cases Milens found that were dismissed by the board or had minor disciplinary action included: [The board] seem to basically be attacking the complainant as they go through the process. And, if not attacking, trying to find any sort of thread to delegitimize the whole complaint, Milens said of what he has gleaned from the hundreds of complaints and cases he has read through. Members of the board dont quite see it that way, though. The thing that constantly surprises people that I speak with is that our state hears every complaint that is filed, board chair Nicole Frost said in an interview with the Mirror. To me, I guess from what I learned is that was surprising, and it showed a lot of consideration for the public, having their complaints be seen and oftentimes not just by the board, but by the investigative committee. The board also pushed back on the accusation that a board filled with veterinarians state law requires that five of the nine board members be licensed veterinarians, and one more is a certified vet technician regulating their own industry is inherently biased against pet owners, saying that she believes the board has diverse representation. Were just doing what everyone else does, Victoria Whitmore, the boards executive director, told the Mirror, noting that veterinarians are one of a slew of professions that are regulated by a state board filled with industry members. She compared the complaint process for veterinarians to a witness alerting police to a stolen car. Its up to prosecutors to press charges, she said, not the witness. Frost has faced criticism from Milens for voting to dismiss 80% of the cases he has reviewed. Now, Milens and others are looking for other ways that people can seek a semblance of justice in cases of malpractice, but those solutions are easier said than done. Pets as property After her experience with the board, Foulks decided it was time to try a different approach. The attorney filed a civil lawsuit against the veterinarian alleging professional negligence. But Foulks learned that these types of cases, despite their likelihood of winning, come at a cost. In Arizona and in most of the country, animals are seen as property in the eyes of the law, the same as a persons house or TV. This means that, even in cases where a person wins in court, theyre only entitled to the real value of that property. If a person spent $150 in adoption fees for a dog who was killed by a veterinarians malpractice, they would only be entitled to $150 in a civil case. The cost of filing a civil case in Maricopa County is $73, and each subsequent filing as the case proceeds is $40 and thats to say nothing of attorneys fees, which are much steeper. They are hard cases, and the outcome is not going to rain a great deal of money on anyone, Adam Karp, an attorney who specializes in animal law in Washington said. Few lawyers are willing to take on these cases as, in most instances, theyll be losing money instead of making it, Karp said. Greta, a purebred Swedish Vallhund, died in 2022 after her veterinarian botched a medical procedure in an attempt to diagnose a urinary tract infection. Photo courtesy Staci Foulks While many of the cases end in a settlement instead of going to trial, others can drag on for years, leading to more and more fees. It is similar to how malpractice works in the human medicine world, with cases often dragging on for several years or being similarly caught up in regulatory boards. And there is a growing trend of corporatization, incentivizing certain care and the influence of money in veterinary medicine, similar to trends that have engulfed human medicine in recent decades. My fear is that this has become a big money business, Gail Mason, a Maine veterinarian who was the expert second opinion on Foulks appeal, told the Mirror. If [a vet is] on the fence about doing a test, and you know at the end of the day it is going to help you personally to make that test, it is in human nature to pull that trigger. Mason said that larger corporations and private equity firms are buying up more and more clinics and incentivizing vets to do procedures and tests that might not be fully medically necessary in order to bolster profits, leading to bad outcomes or wrong diagnoses. Add on that a large number of people are now opting to owning pets over having children and it creates a larger demand for higher-end care. That is also a reason why Mason and Karp think that the law needs to change. So, naturally, when people lose their pets, they are emotionally devastated, Karp said, adding that vets understand this. Why else would you spend $5,000 on a pet to save them?So, it is a bit of a hypocritical position for vets to take to ask for thousands and thousands, a premium based on the high emotional value to the patient, but if they kill the patient, they say, No, no, no, only $100. Mason agrees. It is really unfair, Mason said. What is the market value of a 13-year-old labrador? But if it is the seeing-eye dog for that client, there is a huge disconnect there. Foulks spent a tidy sum to adopt Greta, who was a purebred Swedish Vallhund, but that money would still not be anywhere near the costs of the litigation or emotional stress she has taken on. But changes to help pet owners could be in the offing, if a Republican state senator finds a way to turn a 2024 failure to change state law into a victory in 2025. Legislative action Veteran state lawmaker John Kavanagh, a Fountain Hills Republican, has gotten approximately 50 bills related to animal welfare passed since his first legislative session in 2007. Last year, Kavanagh sponsored two bills aimed at the issues brought up by Foulks, Milens and others that would have allowed courts to give larger monetary values to those who are successful in malpractice cases and add new definitions to veterinary malpractice. But the bills died at the hands of the powerful lobbyists for the American and Arizona Veterinary Medical Associations, Kavanagh said. But hes not giving up: In 2025, both of the bills are back. Senate Bill 1032 adds new definitions to veterinary malpractice to include withholding key medical information as well as destroying medical files. It would expand the definition of malpractice to include the altering of documents, making false statements, withholding medical information or delegating work to someone who is known to not have an expertise in veterinary medicine. And Senate Bill 1030 would allow anyone successful in suing a veterinarian for malpractice to be awarded the fair market value of their animal, as well as any medical costs that were incurred because of the veterinarians malpractice. The language is the result of lengthy negotiation with veterinarian industry stakeholders, Kavanagh said. Mason said she sees the bills as a good step forward and could help more people hold bad actors accountable for their actions. Karp noted that he has seen instances of veterinarians altering medical files in a way that is similar to how medical doctors have been found to do it in other malpractice cases. Kavanagh also agreed with advocates who are concerned about the amount of accountability that can come from a board that investigates its own colleagues. One of the cases reviewed by the Mirror was against a vet named Justin McCormick, who has faced several complaints, all of which have been dismissed. McCormick moonlights as an investigator for the board. He did not respond to a request for comment. The problem you deal with is that most of the people who are qualified to deal with the actions of a profession are members of the profession, and obviously tend to be biased towards the profession, Kavanagh said, noting that even the public members of the Veterinary Medical Examining Board tend to usually have connections to the profession. The whole thing is slanted towards the occupation that is being regulated. Frost and Whitmore would not elaborate on if theyd support Kavanaghs legislation, repeatedly evading the question by saying they are not policy makers. The board has discussed legislation impacting their profession before, specifically the previous versions of Kavanaghs bills, with the agenda noting the board may review, discuss, and take action on the bills. Whitmore gave presentations on the bills to the board. Kavanagh also isnt very optimistic about the prospects of making meaningful changes due to the influence of the agricultural and livestock industries, which dogmatically oppose nearly every animal welfare proposal. I would like to do more, but that is a difficult legislative hurdle to get over, Kavanagh said. What now? Foulks and others the Mirror spoke to all voiced their dismay and distrust of an industry that they have relied on to care for animals that are valued members of their families, not mere property. That trust is not just eroded by bad actors, but by a system that refuses to keep those bad actors in check. While dismayed by the outcome, Foulks said she still believes that people should bring their complaints to the board, as it is in many cases the only avenue for justice. If nothing else, doing so creates a public record on that veterinarian, which other pet owners can view on the boards website. Groups like Milens also are working to create databases for pet owners to better understand the vets they are taking their pets to. But they all still voice their frustration that a system meant to create a deterrent effect for bad behavior has led them to feeling defeated. For pet owners there are ways to make sure your pet is safe, though, according to Mason. The American Animal Hospital Association offers an accreditation program where facilities undergo a rigorous review that can take up to a year and is overseen by an outside third party. However, the process isnt mandatory like medical hospital accreditations, and can be costly. There are approximately 30 AAHA accredited animal hospitals in the Greater Phoenix Metro area. Mason also suggests checking for complaints with the states board or even looking at reviews of veterinarians online. Everyone is going to have some angry person who is going to put up a poor review, but you can get a gist just like you do on Trip Advisor, Mason said. Something else that the people the Mirror spoke to seem to agree on is that they still support veterinarians but as faithful pet owners, they just want to see accountability and transparency. Im not anti-veterinarian, of course Im anti people who dont have integrity, Mason said. ***CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story incorrectly said Staci Foulks dog, Greta, was seven years old when she died in 2020. In fact, she was five years old and died in 2022. Additionally, Dr. Gail Mason lives in Maine, not Oregon. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE German Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck said on Monday that Syrian refugees must be in employment if they are to remain in the country. "We can make good use of those who work here," Habeck said on the Deutschlandfunk public radio station. "Those who are not working here will - if the country is safe - be able or even forced to return to safety." Germany has seen a heated debate over the status of Syrian residents since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime last month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The latest comments from Habeck - the Greens' candidate for chancellor in February's election - echo those of Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, who on Sunday said: "Those who are well integrated, employed, have learned German and found a new home here should be allowed to stay in Germany." About 975,000 Syrians currently live in Germany, according to figures from Faeser's ministry. Most arrived after 2015 due to the Syrian civil war. More than 300,000 of them have subsidiary protection status, having been granted leave to remain in the country not due to individual persecution but because of the civil war in their homeland. German immigration authorities recently decided to temporarily stop making decisions on asylum claims for people from Syria due to the dynamic developments in the country. The conservative Christian Democratic Union has taken a stricter stance on Syrian refugees, with lawmaker Thorsten Frei arguing that those who remain in Germany must earn enough to feed their families and pay for their pensions after retirement. MEMPHIS, Tenn. A man was shot overnight after he told police he tried to chase a pair of suspects who carjacked him. On Saturday at 11:25 p.m., officers responded to a carjacking in the 3400 block of Wingate Cove. A male victim told officers that he and his brother were traveling eastbound on Chuck Ave in their 2011 GMC Terrain when they were flagged down by two women in the back of a gray Nissan Altima. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said that he stopped his vehicle to assist the women when two unknown suspects in the driver and passenger seats of the Altima got out of the car and pointed guns at them. Alcenias burglarized Sunday morning; suspect caught at the bus stop According to the victim, the suspects allegedly said, Get out of the car or I will shoot you. When the two victims then got out of the GMC, the suspects entered and drove eastbound on Chuck Ave. As one of the victims ran after the vehicle, the suspects allegedly fired multiple shots at him, striking him in the left leg. The other victim told officers he was shot at but was not struck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Woman allegedly stabbed co-worker after fight about money The victim who was shot was taken to the hospital in non-critical condition. At 4:06 a.m., officers located the stolen GMC Terrain facing westbound on the right shoulder of Henry Ave near Pope St. Officers ran the tags on the vehicle and it showed it was stolen and taken in a carjacking. According to the police report, an officer touched the hood of the vehicle and felt it was cold and had apparently been left parked for an extended period of time. The vehicle also did not appear to have any vehicle damage. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Five years after a gang war and unrest at Mississippis prisons left a dozen dead from homicides and suicides, officials say these prisons are different places. They pointed to the Mississippi State Penitentiary at Parchman, which has long been regarded as one of the nations worst prisons. The facility has been remodeled, and all the units except for Unit 29 have air-conditioning. Air-conditioning has also come to a third of the South Mississippi Correctional Institution, which the American Correctional Association recently gave a 99.3 score, while the Central Mississippi Correctional Facility made 99.3, said Corrections Commissioner Burl Cain. Thats hard work. That helps us with the Justice Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Mississippi Department of Corrections is hoping to stave off litigation from the Justice Department, which concluded in a 60-page report that these two state prisons, along with the private prison, Wilkinson County Correctional Facility, fail to adequately supervise incarcerated people, control contraband, and investigate incidents of harm and misconduct. These basic safety failures and the poor living conditions inside the facilities promote violence, including sexual assault. Gangs operate in the void left by staff and use violence to control people and traffic contraband. In 2022, the Justice Department found that Parchman inmates were being subjected to an unreasonable risk of violence due to inadequate staffing, cursory investigative practices, and deficient contraband controls. These systemic failures result in an environment rife with weapons, drugs, gang activity, extortion, and violence. Within three years, a dozen of Parchmans prisoners had committed suicide. Department officials cited the problem in concluding that the prison fails to meet the serious mental health needs of persons incarcerated at Parchman. Five years ago, a gang war that spread from prison to prison began in December 2019 and ended in January 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After becoming governor, Tate Reeves vowed to clean up Mississippis prisons and provide for inmates safety. By Jan. 27, 2020, he ordered prison officials to shut down Unit 29. Parchmans inmates were sent to a private prison. Afterward, he visited the vacant Unit 29, where much of the violence took place, and he hired Cain, the former head of the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola. Reeves said that under Cains leadership, Angola went from beatings to Bible studies. It was a bold and controversial pick. On one hand, Cain had a reputation for cleaning up the notorious Louisiana prison; on the other, he had come under fire for allegations of impropriety and nepotism during his reign there allegations he called unfounded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reeves said he had absolute full confidence in Burl Cains ability to change the culture at the Department of Corrections. I have absolute confidence he will do so in a manner to make Mississippians proud. I have zero reservations about appointing him. Cain inherited Mississippi prisons suffering from subhuman living conditions, gross understaffing and grisly violence, and he vowed to change all of that. Chemical castration bill proposed: MS legislator plans to file bill to castrate some violent criminals Mississippi Corrections Commissioner Burl Cain says the American Correctional Association recently gave South Correctional Institution a 99.3 score, and the Central Mississippi Correctional Facility made a 99.3. He told reporters that after Parchmans renovation was complete, he would give them a tour of the prison. Jay-Zs camera crew got to tour Parchman, but reporters have yet to be invited. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Four years later, despite the remodeling, Health Department inspections reflect that conditions at Mississippi prisons have improved, but plenty of problems still exist. Inspection reports show that water continues to leak from the ceiling at Parchman prison when it rains. Some showers harbor mold, some toilets dont work, and some sink spigots are broken. Despite the investment in improving Parchman, state Sen. Juan Barnett, chairman of the Senate Corrections Committee, said he would still like to shut down Parchman and turn Tallahatchie County Correctional Facility into a state-operated prison. In the 2024 legislative session, he filed a bill to do this, but the measure died in his own committee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We cant just keep pumping good state tax dollars into something built long ago, said Barnett, D-Heidelberg. Parchman opened its doors in 1901, but most of its current facilities were built in the 1970s after a federal judge ruled that the states treatment of prisoners was unconstitutional. We dont want to be in a situation like Alabama, Barnett said. Alabama is now constructing a new 4,000-bed prison at a cost of $1.25 billion to taxpayers, and a second 4,000-bed prison has also been approved. These prisons are being built in response to the Justice Departments lawsuit over unsafe conditions in Alabamas prisons. Cliff Johnson, director of the MacArthur Justice Center, said his great-grandfather worked at Parchman, and hes been dead for 76 years. The time has come to close the book on that decrepit facility and its tortured history. The last thing the Delta needs is to lose more jobs, but the notion of replacing Parchman with yet another Mississippi prison feels like taking three steps backward. Cliff Johnson, director of the MacArthur Justice Center, said his great-grandfather worked at Parchman, and hes been dead for 76 years. The time has come to close the book on that decrepit facility." While Parchman has outlived its life as a facility to humanely house human beings, he said, things like the addition of air-conditioning, giving people greater access to common areas instead of being kept in cells indefinitely and providing programs does relieve some of the tensions that lead to violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barnett praised what Cain has done since he took over in 2020. There are some good things hes done, he said, but there is still stuff that needs to be done. That includes improving the quality of those hired, not just to hire people to fill a hole, he said, but to make sure were doing everything to protect employees, protect those in there and make sure people who are in there are good people. Finding and hiring qualified people to work as correctional officers has long been a problem in Mississippi prisons. While staffing levels have improved, they remain short of what they were a decade ago. Between 2014 and 2021, the number of correctional officers in state prisons in Mississippi plummeted from 1,591 to 667, according to the state Personnel Board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That number has since rebounded to 1,207, which Cain attributed to salary increases approved by state lawmakers. Since he was hired in 2020, starting pay has increased to $40,392 a year a hike of about $14,000. The glory goes to the Legislature, he said, not me. Mississippis numbers stand in contrast to national trends, where state prisons have lost 11% of their workforce since 2020, according to a Prison Policy Initiative analysis. Parchman has been hurt by officers who fail to show up for work, the Justice Department found in its investigation. The few officers who do make their shifts are confined in the tower or control room of each housing area and do not conduct patrols or offender headcounts for fear of personal safety, according to the 2022 report. Consequently, housing areas in Parchman routinely go unsupervised, resulting in a dangerous environment. Fears by staff were well-founded, the report said. We tallied more than 30 assaults on staff from January 2018 through May 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report cited a lack of cameras, which Cain said has been solved by placing cameras everywhere. Johnson said staffing remains a challenge. Until we take seriously the need to dramatically alter the staff-inmate ratio at the proper levels by substantially reducing the number of people in our prisons, he said, the risks of violence remain quite high. Mississippi needs to take a hard look at reducing the prison population because were not going to be able to hire our way out of the problem, he said. People will take less money not to work at a prison. Theyre not attractive jobs. Gov. Tate Reeves tours on Jan. 23, 2020, at Unit 29 of the Mississippi State Penitentiary at Parchman, the scene of deadly rioting in late December 2019. The fact there hasnt been an explosion of violence over the last five years can make people complacent when in reality such violence could return when a substantial number of people are crammed into a small space with limited supervision, limited exercise and limited participation in programs that improve the quality of life, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barnett praised a pilot program that is allowing inmates with two years or less left of their sentences to work outside prison to improve their job skills. Half the money they earn goes into savings; 10% they get to keep; the rest goes to pay fines and restitution. Its getting them ready for society, he said. Over time, I think well see a reduction in recidivism. He said other employers are calling him, wanting to take advantage of this new program. If we are going to spend $30,000 a year on each person behind bars, we should see a return on that investment, he said. This way, those who get out of prison can become taxpaying citizens. He also wants to see officials make sure on day one that inmates are able to get copies of their birth certificates and Social Security cards that are necessary to get identification cards and jobs, he said. Sometimes we get in the way of helping people. Cain believes the best way to change prisons is to turn prisoners into productive citizens, he said. We have to teach the inmates skills and trades. More than 2,000 inmates have been certified in various areas, including small-engine repair, welding and operating forklifts, he said. We want everybody to have a job. A good job and a good moral compass can help change the direction of those behind bars, he said. Its this simple in corrections: morality and a job equal success. Morality is needed so that people will stop committing crimes, he said, and there must be a job or theyll have to rob or steal to pay their bills. Worship centers have been built or are under construction in all the prisons, using private funds, he said. We dont care what religion. There might be a Baptist group or a Pentecostal group or a Muslim group using the centers for two hours at a time, he said. That group becomes a club or a gang or a gang for God, if you want to call it that. Its leading people away from violence to peace and harmony. True change requires a change in heart, he said. If you look at a criminal, hes very selfish. He has no problem stealing a lawnmower. Rather than bringing in ministers from the outside, they are being raised up from the inside, he said. Inmates are graduating from the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and becoming field ministers inside the prisons, he said. Theyre changing the culture. Parchman Superintendent Marc McClure said field ministers, inmates graduating from seminaries inside the prisons, play a critical role in improving the way prisons serve inmates. In a video interview obtained by Mississippi Today, Parchman Superintendent Marc McClure said these field ministers play a critical role in improving the way prisons serve inmates. They go to every unit and see everybody, he said. The field ministers are here to serve. These ministers do everything from presiding over funerals to delivering care packages or family death notifications to counseling fellow inmates. The ministers include Protestants, Catholics, Muslims, Jews and those with no religious affiliation. This approach represents a paradigm shift for people to think that the answer for prisons is actually in the prison, said Byron Johnson, distinguished professor of social sciences at Baylor University. It doesnt have to come from the outside. He and others surveyed 2,200 inmates at Angola and conducted 100 life-history interviews. Their conclusion? Religious faith can help prisoners transform their lives and increase their concern for others. The Baylor professor is now interviewing those inside Mississippi prisons and hopes to release a documentary and a book in 2026. I think solutions for our prisons can be found in places like this, he said. Byron R. Johnson, Distinguished Professor of the Social Sciences, Director, Institute for Studies of Religion and Director, Program on Prosocial Behavior at Baylor University in Texas. In 2020, there were 6,000 gang members, Cain said. Within a year or so, he said that had been reduced to 1,500. To help end gang rule, he said he traded dozens of gang leaders with other states. In 2021, he vowed that in three years, there would be reduced violence and no illegal gangs: It will be a model for people to come see. Since Cain took over as commissioner, homicides and suicides have fallen. In 2020, there were eight homicides and 10 suicides in Mississippi prisons, according to the Mississippi State Medical Examiners Office. By 2023, the most recent year available, the numbers had dropped to two homicides and four suicides. Mississippi Prison Deaths: 2020 8 homicides, 10 suicides, 2 undetermined 2021 5 homicides, 13 suicides, 1 undetermined 2022 1 homicide, 4 suicides, 1 undetermined 2023 2 homicides, 4 suicides, 2 undetermined Source: Mississippi State Medical Examiners Office Violence is way down, he said. The gangs, we have them under control. Nicole Montagano, CEO of Hope Dealers Prison Reform, said she doesnt think gangs will ever disappear from Parchman. She believes state officials have yet to fulfill their promises on improving Unit 29, she said. They painted and redid the showers, but there are a lot of broken windows that have yet to be repaired. Unit 29 still has no air-conditioning, and roaches remain a problem, she said. Inmates are still living in inhumane conditions. Inmates, rather than staff, deliver the food, which are sometimes missing items or, worse, are moldy, she said. Some of these guys are losing weight. Five years after the meltdown at Unit 29, she worries that history might repeat itself, she said. Im scared its going to happen again. Cain said the goal is to offer changed lives for everyone inside prison, but he confessed, Its like fishing. You cant catch them all. Mississippi Today reporter Mina Corpuz contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Mississippi prisons see decline in homicides, suicides, gangs VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) An Independence Middle School teacher suffered minor injuries following an attack by a student on Friday, the school division confirmed. According to Virginia Beach City Public Schools, a student at Independence Middle School physically attacked a teacher inside a classroom. A second student was also involved in the incident. School administration and police responded and began an investigation. Police confirmed they are investigating the incident, but no charges have been taken out at this time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement VBCPS said it will use the full extent of the code of conduct to discipline the student. The teacher was evaluated at the hospital for minor injuries and is expected to return to the school. Families of all students in the classroom were contacted by Independence Middle School. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Editors note: Sign up for Unlocking the World, CNN Travels weekly newsletter. Get news about destinations, plus the latest in aviation, food and drink, and where to stay. If 2024 was the year travelers were spared the introduction of bureaucracy for visa-free travel to Europe, 2025 is the year reality kicks in. The European Unions ETIAS visa waiver, much delayed, is currently on track to roll out in 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before that, the UK will introduce its ETA system on January 8. ETA, which stands for Electronic Travel Authorisation, is a new digital registration scheme for travelers who dont need a visa to enter the UK. While before they could hop on a plane and present themselves at passport control on landing, now, travelers will need to get pre-travel authorization to fly to the UK. Heres what to know about the new rules. Who needs an ETA? Anyone who doesnt need a visa to travel to the UK will soon need an ETA an electronic travel authorization which pre-clears you for entry to the country before travel. This is the UK equivalent of the United States ESTA a mandatory, paid-for authorization to travel, with security clearance done in advance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The scheme debuted to Gulf Cooperation Council nationals in 2024, and the next stage is to roll it out to other non-European travelers including the six million travelers from the US, Canada and Australia who enter the UK each year. The full list of 48 states requiring the ETA is here. Travelers from these countries will need an ETA to enter the UK from January 8. The only exception is EU citizens, who will need an ETA to enter the UK from April 2, 2025. Citizens of these countries who are already resident in the UK do not need an ETA. The scheme is for short visits to the UK of less than six months for tourism and business. There are a few other categories of ETA, including for short-term study and permitted paid engagements. These are listed on the UK government website. Is it a visa? Although some people are referring to it as a visa, its actually a visa waiver. Travelers whose citizenship means they need a visa to enter the UK will still need to apply for a visa. (They wont, however, need to get the ETA on top of that.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Countries work on reciprocity when it comes to immigration. When the United States introduced its ESTA visa waiver in 2009, it was inevitable that countries now subject to it would introduce their own similar schemes. How do I get one? The cost is a non-refundable 10 (just under $12.50), and you can apply through the official app listed on the UK government website, or directly online. The apps for iPhone and Android boast of being quicker, with 10-minute processing times. Be sure to apply through official channels, rather than through third-party websites, which may charge extra fees, and are less likely to handle your data securely. You will need to upload a photo of your passport, scan and photograph yourself as you apply, upload the photo, and answer various questions about your plans. Applying online takes around 20 minutes and you must complete the process in one go there is no chance to save as you go. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A decision will normally be given within three days, though the government warns it could take longer. You are allowed to travel to the UK while waiting for your decision, if you need to visit urgently; however you must have made the application before you travel. Note that having an ETA doesnt guarantee entry to the UK. You must still go through passport control and Border Force officials still have the final say over whether you can enter the country. How long will it be valid? Validity lasts for two years and multiple entries so you can visit as often as you please. However, note that it will be digitally linked to your passport so if you get a new passport during those two years, it will no longer be valid and you must apply for a new one. Even passengers transiting through the UK at the likes of Heathrow Airport will need an ETA. - Chris Ratcliffe/Bloomberg/Getty Images Can families get a joint ETA? Everyone entering the UK needs their own ETA, including children and even babies. But you can apply on somebody elses behalf. Does this mean I can stay as long as I like? The ETA is only intended for short stays of up to six months. Im just transiting through the UK. Do I still need the ETA? Everyone entering UK soil, even for a quick onward connection, must have an ETA. (This is the same for any travelers transiting through the US, who need an ESTA.) You will not be allowed through passport control to the transit area without one. Does this cover me to enter Europe, too? To enter Europe, youll need an ETIAS the EU travel waiver, which has been much delayed but is currently slated to start some time in 2025. Stay tuned for details as the countdown approaches. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com One of the busiest strips of one of the busiest roads in Palm Beach County will be partially closed for about a year for upgrades, and another major road in south county will get big upgrades, but before any of that happens, state transportation officials want the public to learn more about why. Road crews will shut down South Dixie Highway between Belvedere Road and Okeechobee Boulevard in West Palm Beach starting in spring 2026 to repave it, upgrade traffic lights and install school zone lights for a private school, the Florida Department of Transportation says. And west of Delray Beach, FDOT will double the size of western Atlantic Avenue starting in January 2025. The department will host a public meeting on Thursday at 6 p.m., virtually and in the Korman Room of the Norton Museum of Art, at 1450 S. Dixie Highway, to talk take questions and talk about the $3.9 million West Palm Beach project. Anyone planning to attend virtually must register online at https://tinyurl.com/448415-1-DixieHwyPublicMeeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Will Southern Boulevard keep closing without warning in Trump's second term? Road work is scheduled for South Dixie Highway in West Palm Beach. Road workers will shut down one lane at a time, during "off-peak" hours, FDOT says, though the department has not yet given specific times. Shops and other types of properties along the strip will remain accessible. FDOT expects work to end in spring 2027. FDOT will repave the mile-long stretch of road, install a flashing school zone sign near the private Greene School, upgrade lighting at the Flamingo Drive intersection and install a traffic light north of Valette Way, which is across the street from Flamingo Park. To learn more about the project, visit its FDOT web page at https://tinyurl.com/448415-1-US1-DixieHwyProject. Updates on Delray Beach-area road upgrades FDOT is also hosting a virtual and in-person meeting on Tuesday at 5 p.m. at the Hagen Ranch Road Library west of Delray Beach to present information on and take questions about the upgrades on West Atlantic Avenue, from State Road 7 to Florida's Turnpike, scheduled to start this month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Virtual attendees must register online at https://bit.ly/Atlantic-Ave-Project. Those attending in person can do so at 14350 Hagen Ranch Road. FDOT has not yet detailed planned road closures when construction starts. The department expects the project to be complete in summer 2028. Upgrades include widening Atlantic Avenue to four lanes between State Road 7 and Lyons Road two each going east and west from the current two in most of this stretch. FDOT will also widen the road to six lanes from four between Lyons Road and the turnpike. The State Road 7 intersection will get a third northbound and southbound lane, along with a second northbound right-turn lane. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Lyons Road intersection will get two left turn lanes and a right-turn lane in each direction. Road crews will also build six-foot sidewalks and seven-foot bike lanes along this stretch of Atlantic Avenue. FDOT expects the project to cost $26 million. The infrastructure law President Joe Biden signed in 2021 is contributing more than $12 million to upgrades along this nearly two-mile stretch of Atlantic Avenue. Chris Persaud is The Palm Beach Post's transportation reporter. Send news tips to cpersaud@pbpost.com. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Road closures scheduled for South Dixie Highway, Atlantic Avenue Blue Spring State Park is celebrating Manatee Monday, announcing a current manatee count of 804! Blue Spring has been a major home for the gentle giants during the wintertime in Florida since becoming a protected state park in 1972, This is because manatees need consistently warm water temperatures of 72 degrees to survive the colder water temperatures of winter. Read: Central Florida counties to open cold weather shelters this week Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blue spring has become such a haven for manatees that even during the summer months, pregnant manatees will return to the spring to give birth to calves. In the future, more manatees will rely on natural, protected springs such as Blue Spring, especially as artificial warm water refuges from power plants will be shut down. Read: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to step down as party leader Manatees Resting In The Warm Waters of Blue Spring State Park Manatees Resting In The Warm Waters of Blue Spring State Park Manatees Resting In The Warm Waters of Blue Spring State Park Manatees Resting In The Warm Waters of Blue Spring State Park Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Manatees Resting In The Warm Waters of Blue Spring State Park Manatees Resting In The Warm Waters of Blue Spring State Park Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Getty Images Throughout 2024, Republican officials in Ohio and around the country raised alarms about potential voter fraud ahead of Novembers election. But Election Day came and went without a hiccup and a post-election audit released late last month reiterated what many advocates have been saying all along Ohios election system is extremely safe and accurate. Ohioans deserve to know that their elections are transparent, accessible, and accountable, Secretary of State Frank LaRose said in a press release. As 2024 comes to a close, I am proud to announce yet another 99.9% audit accuracy rate and am grateful for the hard work and dedication of Ohios bipartisan election officials who make it happen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LaRose went on to note that for the Presidential race in particular all 88 counties reported a 100% accuracy rate. How it works County boards have to audit three races whatever is at the top of the ticket, another statewide race selected by the secretary and a local race selected by the county board. The review has to include at least 5% of the total votes cast in the county. In addition to the presidential race, in the latest audit counties reviewed the U.S. Senate race and a range of local contests like county commissioner or prosecutor. The Senate race accuracy rate was 99.997% and local races came in at 99.998%. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those figures align with the results officials have turned in following every election in recent memory. Secretary LaRose bragged that since taking office, he has required a post-election audit after every election and thanked state lawmakers for codifying that practice going forward. Reality and rhetoric Those strong audit results are a big reason why LaRose and other officials routinely describe Ohio as the gold standard for election integrity. But LaRose himself spent much of the past year fanning suspicions about election fraud. In May, LaRose identified 137 potential noncitizens in the statewide voter registration database as part of an annual audit. Although his announcement acknowledged the registrations could be the result of an honest mistake, he took the opportunity to share his findings in conservative media as an example of his efforts to fight fraud and the recalcitrance of federal agencies for not giving him access to certain databases. LaRoses allegations got quoted as fact by U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson in lobbying for a bill requiring proof of citizenship to vote. A handful of state lawmakers in Ohio have recently floated the same idea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As it happens, LaRoses audit wound up sweeping in a handful of recently naturalized citizens. Some of them argued the secretary was taking shortcuts to include individuals who hadnt met the specific statutory requirements for getting flagged. Still, in the run up to last years election, those concerns resulted in some Ohio counties fielding thousands of voter registration challenges sometimes over discrepancies as trivial as an extra space in their name. Just two weeks before the election, Attorney General Dave Yost announced his office had investigated the hundreds of cases flagged by LaRose and turned up six cases of illegal voting. Yost grumbled about being asked to investigate several cases that amounted to simple registration errors, and it turned out one of the people they indicted was already dead. The other cases, meanwhile, read like honest misunderstandings rather than willful fraud. In addition, LaRose got into a running battle over access to ballot drop boxes. After a federal court ruled that people with disabilities must be allowed to get assistance from a broader range of people than the list of close family laid out in state law, he instituted a new policy requiring those assisting others sign a form stating theyre doing so in compliance with state law. In the name of fighting ballot harvesting those changes took access to drop boxes off the table for anyone not dropping their own ballot whether they were assisting someone with disabilities or one of the close family members specifically outlined in state law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LaRose went to so far as to send a letter to state lawmakers encouraging them to scrap drop boxes altogether. A pair of state lawmakers have included that provision in a measure requiring proof of citizenship to vote. Reactions In response to the latest election audit, Ohio Association of Election Officials executive director Aaron Ockerman said, Once again Ohio election officials have risen to the occasion and provided an efficient, trustworthy and fair election. The post-election audits of the 2024 Presidential election confirm what we have known to be true for many years, he added. Ohioans can trust their election results. Jen Miller, who heads up the League of Women Voters of Ohio praised the work of election officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We commend Ohios diligent elections officials for once again running secure, accurate elections, she said. They are public servants who deserve raises in Ohios next budget. Miller went on to underscore the implications of yet another sterling audit. The audit results prove that fraud is exceedingly rare in Ohio, and we caution Secretary LaRose and lawmakers against changing voting laws, which would likely decrease access without improving security at all. Follow OCJ Reporter Nick Evans on Twitter. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE SUSSEX, Va. (WAVY) One man is dead after a single-vehicle crash on Birch Island Road overnight, police said. According to officials, just after midnight, officers were dispatched to the 7300 block of Birch Island Road, just south of Route 604, for reports of a vehicle crash. Officers arrived to the scene and were able to determine the driver of a 2003 Ford F-150, 32-year-old Timothy Lee Tanner, was traveling northbound when he lost control of the vehicle, driving off the road and striking a tree. Tanner was the sole occupant of the vehicle, police said. Police said Tanner, who was unrestrained at the time of the incident, was traveling too fast for the icy roadway conditions. Police also found alcohol to be a contributing factor to the crash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement VDOT braces for icy conditions after snowfall in Hampton Roads Virginia State Police urge motorists to stay safe during icy conditions with the following tips: Use headlights Slow down Do not tailgate Buckle up Continue to check WAVY.com for updates. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question youd like an expert to answer, send it to curiouskidsus@theconversation.com. What are war crimes and when did they start? Artie, 12, Queens, New York I imagine youre asking about war crimes because youve heard that term mentioned lately in news about the conflicts underway in Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan. The idea may sound confusing, because war always includes killings and destruction. But special rules restrict how wars can be fought. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am a professor who studies international law the set of rules that defines what a war crime is. Why do we need laws about war? Historically, war had few limits. Individual societies occasionally attempted to control how wars were fought. But for much of human history, when nations attacked each other, it wasnt just soldiers who died. Many civilians ordinary people who werent fighting in the war died, and whole cities were destroyed. After wars ended, survivors from the losing country might even end up as slaves taken back to the victorious country. There were no laws of war that restricted conquests by the Egyptians and Romans in ancient times between 600 and 30 B.C. No laws limited the Mongol invasions of Europe in the 13th century or the European colonial invasions of Latin American, African and Asian societies in the 18th through 20th centuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even as recently as the 1940s, during World War II, U.S. and U.K. forces killed hundreds of thousands of people in their bombings of German and Japanese cities. Nazi Germany systematically murdered approximately 6 million Jews and others during the Holocaust. When did war get laws? There is no supreme world government that can create laws for all countries, so international law is formed by rules that countries agree to respect. These are called treaties. In the 19th century, countries and many private groups worldwide began working to develop the laws of war. Early treaties on war were meant primarily to protect soldiers from unnecessary pain and suffering. Countries agreed to stop using really dangerous weapons such as poison gas, for example. They also banned murdering wounded enemies and soldiers who tried to surrender, because those killings arent necessary to win a war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later, after the horrors of World War II, the laws of war were expanded to protect civilians. Developing all these rules has taken well over a century. Nations agreed to them because everyone has a shared interest in limiting some of the worst aspects of how war is fought. The goal is to keep everyone caught up in war as safe as possible, while accepting that some innocent people will still die. What are war crimes? The rules of war are set out primarily in four treaties from 1949 called the Geneva Conventions. Every country in the world accepts these rules, which have been expanded several times in the years since. The Geneva Conventions are very specific about what warring nations cannot do during an armed conflict. The things they cannot do are called war crimes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here is a partial list of war crimes: Deliberate killing that is not justified by a legitimate military objective. Torture. Inflicting severe harm on enemies. Taking hostages. Wounding or killing a soldier who has surrendered. Attacking civilians not participating in the conflict. Using certain prohibited weapons. Starving people as a weapon of war. How are war crimes punished? Most people generally agree that these are good rules and that warring countries should try to obey them. The problem is enforcement. War crimes are committed not by entire countries but by individual people, such as soldiers who torture the captured enemy or destroy a familys crops unnecessarily. Since individuals commit the crimes, individuals must be held responsible. Many countries have laws stating what can and cannot be done during war. They generally reflect the rules of the Geneva Conventions. However, history shows that governments are often reluctant to prosecute their own soldiers for war crimes. Accusations of such crimes are often ignored, punished lightly or dismissed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats why the International Criminal Court exists. In 1998, representatives from 160 countries met in Rome to create this world court, which can investigate, bring to trial and decide the guilt or innocence of individuals accused of war crimes and certain other international crimes. Today, 124 countries have accepted the courts authority. If war crimes are committed in these countries, the court can act. In 2014, for example, the head of a rebel force in the Democratic Republic of Congo was convicted of murder and deliberately attacking civilians; he was put in prison for 12 years. However, several big and powerful countries have not consented to the authority of the International Criminal Court, including the United States, China and Russia. Many countries in which brutal wars have occurred also reject its powers, including Iraq, Israel, Syria, Sudan and Yemen. This limits its powers. Additionally, the International Criminal Court has no international police force to arrest suspects. It relies on governments to detain people accused of war crimes and deliver them to the court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Again, not all of them cooperate. National leaders have sometimes traveled abroad after International Criminal Court arrest warrants were issued against them and have not been arrested. Finally, interpreting international law can be tricky. It is a war crime to deliberately attack civilians, but countries at war with each other still bomb apartment buildings, hospitals and schools sometimes, claiming enemy forces are inside those buildings. If true, that could make the buildings legitimate military targets though international law still requires militaries to do everything possible to minimize civilian casualties. What next? Right now, you may be thinking: If people arent punished for breaking the rules of war, do these rules even matter? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a reasonable question. But consider this: Countries have had criminal laws against murder and robbery for thousands of years, yet these crimes are still committed. The concept of war crimes has been around for a much shorter time. It is not surprising that not all war criminals can be brought to justice, but I think the fact that most countries now agree that war crimes should be prohibited is important. Plus, when war crimes are investigated and condemned, victims may feel that their suffering will not be forgotten. Even if no one is punished, proving a crime was committed has value. International law isnt easy to enforce, but at least most of the world now recognizes that even wars must have their limits. 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: Hurst Hannum, Tufts University Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Hurst Hannum 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. The war of words between U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and X boss Elon Musk shows no signs of slowing down. On Monday, Starmer finally addressed Musks criticism of his recent handling of the U.K.s historic rape gang crisis, in which grooming gangs, reportedly made up predominantly of men of Pakistani descent, targeted young girls. During a press conference, Starmer said: Those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible are not interested in victims. Theyre interested in themselves. More from Variety Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk responded on X, posting: What an insane thing to say! The real reason [the government is not holding an inquiry into the scandal] is that it would show how Starmer repeatedly ignored the pleas of vast numbers of little girls and their parents, in order to secure political support. Starmer is utterly despicable. The brouhaha kicked off last week after the U.K.s home office minister Jess Phillips denied a request to hold a government inquiry into the historic systemic abuse of young women by the gangs across U.K. cities including Rotherham, Oldham, Rochdale and Bristol. A previous inquiry found that in Rotherham alone over 1,400 children had been sexually abused over a 16-year period, mostly by British Pakistani men, according to the BBC. While there have been a number of local inquiries, Oldham Council recently requested a national one led by the government. It was this that Phillips rebuffed last week. Her denial was quickly picked up by Musk, who waded into the controversy, tweeting: She deserves to be in prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk continued to post about the scandal over the weekend, with tweets and retweets ranging from court transcripts from some of the sexual abuse cases to support for British far-right agitator Tommy Robinson. He also repeatedly criticized Starmer and the U.K. government. On Monday morning Starmer was asked about Musk, and responded: On the question of Elon Musk. Look, I think most people are more interested in whats going to happen to the NHS [National Health Service], frankly, than whats happening on Twitter. Starmer then defended his record on the issue, including his time as chief prosecutor when, he said: I brought the first major prosecution of an Asian grooming gang, in the particular case it was in Rochdale, but it was the first of its kind.when I left office, we had the highest number of child sexual abuse cases being prosecuted on record. He added: Those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible are not interested in victims. Theyre interested in themselves. Those who are cheerleading Tommy Robinson arent interested in justice. Theyre supporting a man who went to prison for nearly collapsing a grooming case, a gang grooming case. These are people who are trying to get some kind of vicarious thrill from street violence that people like Tommy Robinson promote. And those attacking Jess Phillips, who Im proud to call a colleague and a friend, are not protecting victims. Jess Phillips has done a thousand times more than theyve even dreamt about when it comes to protecting victims of sexual abuse throughout her entire career. And so just as I took on the criminal justice system and the institutions when I was chief prosecutor, Im prepared to call out this for what it is. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I enjoy the cut and thrust of politics, the robust debate that we must have, but thats got to be based on facts and truth, not on lies, Starmer continued. Not on those who are so desperate for attention that theyre prepared to debase themselves and their country. So this government will get on with the job of protecting victims, including child sexual abuse, mandatory reporting, accelerating the processes. But what I wont tolerate is this discussion and debate based on lies without calling it out. Starmers words havent cowed Musk, however, who continued to tweet about the scandal throughout Monday. He currently has a poll running on his X profile page asking America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government. At time of publication, over 60% of respondents had voted Yes. Best of Variety Sign up for Variety's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Warming centers have opened up across Dayton amid freezing temperatures and accumulating snow. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The three facilities are scheduled to be open Monday-Friday from 6 a.m.-9 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. TRENDING STORIES: The coldest temperatures this week are forecasted for Thursday, Jan. 9, according to a media release by the Dayton Fire Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The warming centers are located at: Greater Dayton Recreation Center 2021 W. Third St. Lohrey Recreation Center 2366 Glenarm Ave. Northwest Recreation Center 1600 Princeton Dr. For shelter needs beyond the hours provided, women and families can go to the St. Vincent DePaul shelter at 120 West Apple St. and men can go to the shelter at 1921 South Gettysburg Ave. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) A new report finds that consuming alcohol could increase your risk of at least seven types of cancer. The U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, released an advisory Friday following new research. Dr. Murthy shared that alcohol can increase your risk of seven types of cancers. Among them are breast, mouth, colon and liver cancer. Surgeon general calls for cancer warnings on alcohol Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dr. Murthy is calling on Congress to require health warnings on alcoholic beverages following new research. The proposed labels would state how consuming alcohol increases your risk. People are being reminded to drink wisely. Drinking alcohol remains the third preventable cause of cancer in the country, behind tobacco and obesity. Congress would be required to act on the proposed warning labels. Those labels have not been updated since 1988. To learn more about the report on alcohol and cancer risks visit the Surgeon Generals website. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Washington County residents called for jury duty can stay home on Monday. Washington County Deputy Court Administrator Jamie Knizner said jury service will be canceled because of expected snow and inclement weather. CLICK HERE FOR A FULL LIST OF SCHOOL AND BUSINESS CLOSINGS. CLICK HERE FOR WPXI WEATHER COVERAGE. Jurors are expected to report for service at the Washington County Courthouse on Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. CLICK HERE TO TRACK THE WEATHER WITH LIVE RADAR. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW (Bloomberg) -- A winter storm has grounded flights across the eastern and central US, shut federal offices in Washington and knocked out power across six states. Most Read from Bloomberg Washington, where Congress will meet to certify the presidential election later Monday, had received as much as 5 inches (13 centimeters) of snow through the morning, according to the National Weather Service. As much as 12 inches may fall in some areas before the system finally exits around midnight, said Frank Pereira, a senior branch forecaster at the US Weather Prediction Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Going forward were still expecting an additional 6 to 8 inches, bringing our totals up close to a foot in some spots, he said. The storm is the first major snow event of the season across most of the central and eastern US, arriving in time to tangle Washingtons morning commute after dropping as much as 18 inches across eastern Kansas. Most federal offices have been shut, according to the US Office of Personnel Management. More than 1,900 flights around the US were canceled Monday, including at Washington and Baltimore airports, according to FlightAware, an airline tracking service. More than 1,900 additional trips were delayed. Federally funded rail passenger carrier Amtrak has also scrubbed trains across the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, including the Acela high-speed service to and from Washington, according to its website. Commuter rail services in Maryland and Virginia wont be running on most lines Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of 10 a.m. New York time, almost 325,000 customers were without power in eight states from Missouri to Virginia, the hardest hit, according to PowerOutage.us. Power prices more than doubled on three US grids stretching from the Northeast to the Mid-Atlantic. The average for on-peak power on the New England grid jumped to $165 per megawatt-hour for Monday from Jan. 3 to the highest level in almost a year. New York City rose to a two-week high of about $146. Electricity at the benchmark hub on the grid operated by PJM Interconnection LLC, which serves more than 65 million people from Washington DC to Chicago, averaged $73 for Monday, the most in four months. After the snow passes through the mid-Atlantic, enduring frigid temperatures will keep driving demand higher. PJM released a cold-weather alert for Jan. 8 to Jan. 10 asking power plant and transmission line owners to consider deferring any maintenance, and for generators to let the grid operator know of any fuel limitations. Demand is poised to climb to about 133 gigawatts, the most since September, according Arcus Powers NRGstream grid data service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the snow in Washington may ease by midday on Monday, a second round is expected later. New York City will be spared the worst of it, with less than an inch expected, and Boston wont get any snow at all, Pereira said. Meanwhile, wind chills across Texas have dropped temperatures to as low as 5F (minus 15 C) in some places, and there is a threat of snow and rain across Dallas starting Wednesday and lasting until Friday. As of mid-morning, more than 8,000 customers across Texas were without power, PowerOutage.us said. --With assistance from Naureen S. Malik. (Updates cancellations in fifth paragraph) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. BOSTON (SHNS) A new year and new legislative session have arrived, and there are already loads of pressing issues that appear ripe for attention from Gov. Maura Healey, Senate President Karen Spilka, House Speaker Ronald Mariano and the rest of Beacon Hills extended cast of lawmakers, regulators and bureaucrats. Mindful that there is almost certain to be a handful of major issues that unexpectedly pop up and demand attention from the governors administration and Legislature this year, heres a look at some of the already simmering issues that could rise to a rolling boil in 2025: MBTA BUDGET CRISIS: To many on Beacon Hill, MBTA officials warning that the agency doesnt have enough money feels like the boy who cried wolf but even in that fable, the wolf did eventually show up. It looks like that could be the case in 2025: the T has already spent down its pandemic aid and savings, and now its leaders have few immediate options to navigate a budget gap forecast to be around $700 million. Slashing the Ts spending probably will not get much traction after a concentrated and, arguably, successful effort in the last 18 months to staff up and invest in service improvements. Beacon Hill power players might be gearing up for yet another debate about how to fund the MBTA in the long term, informed by a task force that got an extension on the report that was due to Gov. Healey by the end of 2024 and buoyed by surging surtax revenues that must be earmarked for transportation or education. Theres going to be more work around transportation, for sure, Healey told the News Service in her year-end interview last month. Chris Lisinski Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SURTAX SURPLUS: The voter-approved surtax on high earners has been a bright spot for state budget managers, who otherwise are dealing with uneven tax collections. After the Legislature and Gov. Healey built the fiscal 2024 budget using a conservative estimate for surtax collections, the actual haul far outpaced that figure, leaving more than $1.2 billion in additional money set aside for future investments in transportation and education. Top Democrats already have their eyes on spending down that pot, and House budget chief Aaron Michlewitz signaled in October well probably have to use all of it on transportation in particular. Healey and the Senate will have their own ideas. The timing overlaps with a pivotal debate at the MBTA, which is facing a massive budget gap starting July 1 that raises the specter of service cuts without additional state aid. Of course, when theres money to be distributed, everyone wants a piece, so lawmakers are likely to face sustained lobbying efforts and internal debate on the best way to carve up the funding. Having a dedicated pool of money to spend on a handful of pressing issues early in the session could make some springtime budget decisions less painful as Beacon Hill braces for another tight budget year in fiscal 2026. Chris Lisinski WATCHING THE WALLET: Even with relatively low unemployment and state reserves at a historic high, most of Beacon Hill expects fiscal 2026 will be a challenging budget year. Softening non-surtax revenue collections, spending demands inflated by pandemic-era initiatives and a mountain of uncertainty about the direction of key federal policies all suggest policymakers may need to take a more active role in budget management. Were really worried about FY 26, Senate Ways and Means Chair Michael Rodrigues told reporters in December. But even before fiscal 2026 can begin on July 1, the state has to navigate through the second, riskier half of what has been a year of mixed results so far. The budget watchdogs at Mass. Taxpayers Foundation said in December that they do not think Healey will have to make the same kind of midyear budget cuts she did last January, but DOR projects that collections will end the year short of the current target so something may have to give. January collections, which DOR is due to report by Feb. 5, will be especially telling. That month is the start of a crucial six-month period for the states coffers. Collections are not split evenly across the 12 months and the second half of the fiscal year (January through June) typically produces about 60 percent of the states annual tax revenue, officials have said. The second half of the budget year also tends to be more volatile for tax collections. Colin A. Young LEGISLATIVE RULE CHANGES: Top Democrats once again failed to complete a long list of top priorities before the July 31 end of formal sessions in 2024. But unlike past terms when anything left in limbo died, lawmakers crafted workarounds to keep big action during and after election season a possibility. With that experience under their belts, legislative leaders are now eyeing more formal changes to their internal rules that would permanently amend the even-year July 31 target that has governed their operations for decades. To secure any alterations, though, Democrats will need to find agreement in an area where they have not had success for years: for two straight sessions, the House and Senate did compromise on joint rules, leaving previous iterations in place on an ostensibly temporary basis. The year ahead will also bring renewed fighting over legislative transparency as Auditor Diana DiZoglio presses ahead with her voter-empowered bid to audit the Legislature, and top Democrats weigh whether to comply or to maintain their resistance. Chris Lisinski FAMILY SHELTERS: The humanitarian and financial crises associated with the states family shelter system continue to drag into 2025. Funding for the emergency shelters is set to run out in January, and this looming shortfall will likely make appropriations and policy reform one of the first major bills for the new Legislature. While the concept of rapidly rehousing homeless families makes for a good catchphrase, it has proven difficult to implement. The state is now spending $1 billion annually on family shelter costs more than double what it used to cost and Gov. Healey has promised to move families out of expensive hotels and motels. Healey and lawmakers will likely agree on policies that move the state farther away from the traditional right to shelter model, with reforms to the system that guarantee less time in emergency housing for families. This issue remains a significant political challenge for Democrats, and conservatives are likely gearing up to make the issue central to their opposition campaigns to high-profile figures seeking reelection, like Boston Mayor Michelle Wu this year and Healey in 2026, if she chooses to run for governor again. Sam Drysdale Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MILTON ZONING CASE: Miltons long-running zoning spat with the state over the MBTA Communities Act could reach a resolution in mid-February, or potentially sooner, whenever the Supreme Judicial Court makes its expected decision in the case brought by Attorney General Andrea Campbell in an attempt to force the Boston suburb to comply with a 2021 zoning law. The town argues that the only consequence the Legislature prescribed for non-compliance is loss of certain state grant eligibility. The AG sued the town almost a year ago, Feb. 27, 2024, for violating the law which requires 177 communities with or adjacent to MBTA service to allow multi-family zoning by right in some areas after Milton residents voted to spike a zoning plan that Milton Town Meeting had approved. The SJCs decision could influence whether other municipalities in eastern Massachusetts choose to embrace or reject denser zoning as required by the law. But the majority of municipalities that have already faced their deadlines to comply with the law have done so. Campbell and top state officials view the law as a key tool for tackling Massachusettss housing crisis. Alison Kuznitz TRUMP TERM TWO: Gov. Healey, who as attorney general sued Donald Trump roughly 100 times, seems poised to take a less adversarial approach when the president-elect returns to the White House this month. A day after the election, Healey was no longer on the offensive castigating Trump and seemed markedly somber when telling reporters that she and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll will work with anyone to make life better for residents in our state. Healey has momentarily regained some of her partisan fierceness in television interviews, saying days later that she would absolutely not fulfill a hypothetical request from the Trump administration for Massachusetts State Police to assist with mass deportations. From her perch now in the corner office, Healey needs to strategically weigh how battling Trump could risk Massachusetts losing out on federal funding, a key resource that her administration regularly competes for against other states. Health and Human Services Secretary Kate Walsh said state officials are focused on working with their federal counterparts, particularly in protecting Medicaid dollars. But Attorney General Andrea Campbell, who may be taking the baton from Healey and going on the offensive, has said shes worried about how the Trump presidency could impact access to reproductive and gender-affirming care even with the commonwealths abortion shield law passed in the aftermath of the Dobbs ruling. Campbell has said she plans to review that law and others to ensure they are strong enough to withstand future challenges. Alison Kuznitz LEGAL INJECTION SITES: Lawmakers dropped the controversial idea to pursue supervised injection sites in a substance abuse law last year, but supporters are likely to continue to push the policy. With opioid-related deaths declining but still at crisis levels, the Senate embraced the sites, also known as overdose prevention centers, where people can use illegal drugs under the supervision of trained health care workers. Supporters say they are a life-saving tool to tamp down on the devastating effects of the opioid crisis, which has been exacerbated by the pervasive presence of fentanyl in the drug supply. Opponents note the sites are illegal under federal law and say they would encourage illegal drug use. The Senate-backed policy died in private opioid bill talks with the House. Injection sites have the support of Gov. Healeys Public Health Commissioner, Robbie Goldstein. Healey hasnt publicly said much about whether she supports the idea, and it remains to be seen whether she or Goldstein will put up more of a fight for them in the new session. Sam Drysdale UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE UNCERTAINTY: In state government, $2.5 billion can still go a long way, and so the possibility that Massachusetts could wind up owing that much back to the federal government for a Gov. Charlie Baker-era error has the chance to cause quite a few headaches. Its been more than 18 months since the Healey administration revealed that Massachusetts mistakenly paid $2.5 billion in pandemic-era jobless benefits using federal dollars, not state dollars, and the U.S. Department of Labor still has not said whether the state will need to repay some or all of that total. Some onlookers think the incoming Trump team will be less inclined to give deep-blue Massachusetts a break. If the state does wind up on the hook, its possible Beacon Hill moves to pass along the costs to employers, who are already facing higher UI costs as a result of upheaval during the COVID-19 crisis. That move will raise competitiveness questions. Chris Lisinski Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MCAS & GRADUATION: After voters approved Question 2 to eliminate the MCAS exam graduation requirement, Massachusetts is suddenly searching about for a new statewide standard. Gov. Healey has made clear that she wants a uniform graduation model that ensures equity across districts, and plans to bring together stakeholders this year to come up with a solution that abides by the vote law. Education Committee Co-Chair Sen. Jason Lewis said he plans to file a bill requiring MassCore completion for all students, which would mandate a certain curriculum, as an alternative to the exam requirement that voters scrapped. Critics argue that such a move will have to be coupled with strong oversight to ensure equity across districts, and it would require additional funding from the state, as some schools lack the resources to fully implement MassCore. Some business groups that opposed the ballot question say theyll try to convince leaders that the current MCAS system should stay in place until an alternative can be set up, though the Massachusetts Teachers Association which financially backed Question 2 says thats out of the question. As the state works on a replacement, there is pressure on districts to certify that students are meeting the statewide competency requirements to earn diplomas. Sam Drysdale TEACHER STRIKES: If the past is prologue, teachers strikes are likely to continue and even accelerate in the new year. Educator unions have been pushing the boundaries of the Bay States law against public workers strikes in recent years, and seem to be upping the ante with an eye towards making a political statement against the labor policy. As teacher contracts expire next year and educators stare down the cost of living crisis across the state, more local unions may choose the path that has now won a number of pay increase victories already, despite court fines and opposition from Gov. Healey and powerful lawmakers. Plus, the Massachusetts Teachers Association and Massachusetts branch of the American Federation of Teachers might try to build on their success at the 2024 ballot box by circumventing a reluctant Legislature and petitioning directly to voters to make teacher strikes legal in 2026 or future years. Sam Drysdale BLOWIN IN THE WIND: Will 2025 finally be the year that Massachusetts gets meaningful power from offshore wind? The only project to have even begun turbine construction since the 2016 law that launched the Bay States pursuit of wind power got a few megawatts of power in 2024 before a blade disintegrated and brought everything to a grinding halt. Last years procurement of more wind power didnt live up to its full billing, the process was repeatedly delayed, and one of the three projects chosen has backed out before contracts could be negotiated. And now, new contracts for the projects that remain arent due to be finalized until offshore wind opponent Donald Trump will be back in the White House later this month and there could be even greater uncertainty around the economic conditions that wiped out the states project pipeline in 2022 and 2023. Its important that we bring this back online. It is a very, very important industry to Massachusetts, Gov. Healey said in August about the Vineyard Wind 1 project and sector generally. Its very important for the clean energy future, and Im confident we get there. Political and economic concerns aside, wind boosters now too have to consider the threat that public favor could turn against the clean energy movement as costs soar and ratepayers resist the shift. Colin A. Young STEWARD RIPPLE EFFECTS: The remnants of the Steward Health Care crisis will continue to reshape the states fragile health care system, as six hospitals adjust to new owners backed by a state aid package totaling at least $417 million over three years. Two work groups focused on the voids left by the closures of Carney Hospital in Dorchester and Nashoba Valley Medical Center in Ayer are expected to provide recommendations in early 2025 about community health care needs and ways to improve access to care. UMass Memorial has considered alternative uses for Nashoba, like transforming the hospitals emergency room into an urgent care facility. Under-construction Norwood Hospital, which Steward abandoned, remains closed, and the Healey administration says its looking for a new operator to finish the project and resume health care services. The Health Policy Commission will be keeping close tabs on Revere Medical, the former Steward physician group acquired by an affiliate of a private equity company. Alison Kuznitz Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SOUTH COAST RAIL: Passenger rail service is expected to return to Taunton, Fall River and New Bedford for the first time since 1958 when the long-awaited MBTA commuter rail expansion to the South Coast begins service in May. Once service starts, all major cities within 50 miles of Boston will have commuter rail access to the states capital. Versions of the project have been under debate and development for years and the go-live date has repeatedly been postponed. Im optimistic, Fall River Rep. Alan Silvia said in 2017. He added, We all want to ride this train before I go to heaven especially me. The $1.1 billion projects first phase will activate about 36 miles of existing tracks for commuter rail service with stations in Middleborough, East Taunton, Freetown, Fall River and New Bedford. The eventual full build is expected to extend the existing Stoughton Line south with stations in Easton, Raynham and Taunton before connecting with the Fall River and New Bedford lines. Colin A. Young MONEY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT: The big bond bills of 2024 were related to housing and economic development, but lawmakers have already begun lobbying for their pet projects and priorities in the environmental bond bill forthcoming from the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs. As they ran out of options for advancing some provisions when lawmaking came to a head for the session last summer, some lawmakers mentioned that they would withdraw their ideas with the intention of trying to get the language into the under-development enviro bond bill. Bond bills authorize a maximum amount of capital spending, but not every dollar authorized becomes reality since the state is constrained to a much lower limit on annual borrowing. The most recent capital plan lists a fiscal 2025 bond cap of $303 million for EEA, with a cap of $1.555 billion over the five-year plan. Colin A. Young MAYORAL ELECTIONS: If history is any guide, at least some lawmakers from the 33 cities that will vote for mayor in 2025 will think about throwing their hats into the ring (especially knowing they would not have to give up their legislative seat unless they win). Mayor Michelle Wus reelection effort in Boston headlines the pack, but four-year terms are also on the ballot in Easthampton, Everett, Framingham, Holyoke, Lawrence, Lynn, Newburyport, Newton, Northampton, Salem, and West Springfield. The Office of Campaign and Political Finance said voters will elect mayors for two-year terms in Agawam, Attleboro, Beverly, Brockton, Chicopee, Fall River, Fitchburg, Gardner, Gloucester, Haverhill, Leominster, Marlborough, Medford, Methuen, North Adams, Peabody, Somerville, Taunton, Westfield, Woburn, and Worcester. Colin A. Young 2026 STATEWIDE ELECTIONS: It takes name recognition, time and money to build a statewide following and any candidate hoping to win one of the six constitutional offices up for grabs in 2026 will need to start early. Gov. Healey hasnt said if she will run for a second term and said in December that she would start thinking about that possibility at some point this year. Be on the lookout for a potential primary opponent for Auditor Diana DiZoglio, whose push for more accountability from the Legislature has rankled insiders in the General Court. Congressman Joseph Kennedy III didnt shy away from a challenge in 2020 when he tried, unsuccessfully, to unseat U.S. Sen. Ed Markey. Other officeholders must decide whether they will take a run at Markey in 2026, and some of the more veteran members of the states Congressional delegation will also need to decide whether to keep going, or call it quits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Credit: Social media An Iranian woman tore off a clerics turban after he publicly berated her for not wearing a hijab in Tehrans Mehrabad airport in an act of protest that will alarm the regime. The confrontation took place when the cleric berated the woman in the waiting lounge as she searched for her husband. All women in Iran must conceal their hair with a headscarf and wear loose-fitting trousers under their coats while in public but a growing number have appeared in public without head coverings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After being criticised about her uncovered hair, the woman swiftly removed the clerics white turban and wrapped it around her head as a makeshift headscarf to make a point. Oh, Iranian men, I s--- in your honour, she shouted, seemingly in response to the men watching the scene unfold without coming to her aid. Thats it, thats it, I want this ... Where is my husband? Where is my man? It comes at a tense time in Iran, with the regime significantly weakened by Israels war with Hezbollah and the fall of key ally Bashar al-Assad in Syria. Mashregh News, a media outlet close to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps intelligence organisation, claimed on Monday that the woman in question had psychological issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was arrested following the incident but was later released with the consent of the complainants, according to the media outlet. In November, a female student at a university in Tehran stripped to her underwear in an act of protest after being harassed by campus security officers over her hijab. She was then branded mentally ill and transferred to a psychiatric hospital where she attempted to escape from a quarantine ward but was blocked by security forces before being handed over to her family. She has not been seen in public since. In 2023, four Iranian psychological and psychiatric associations criticised the Islamic Republics actions in abusing psychiatry and psychology to suppress opponents of mandatory hijab. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman involved in the confrontation at Mehrabad airport received widespread support on social media, with some referring to it as an impactful protest performance. The heartbreaking part of this story is that this lived experience is unique to Iranian women, one user wrote on X. God knows how many times each of us reaches this breaking point every day. Men can never understand the immense pressure a woman faces and the overwhelming feeling she experiences that leads her to rebel. They label you as crazy, and thats it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The action appeared to be a direct challenge to both the clerics authority and Irans mandatory hijab laws. A new bill making its way through Irans parliament is set to toughen regulations governing how men and women can dress in public, but authorities have already started enforcing it before its formal approval. The bill states that anyone found naked, semi-naked, or wearing clothing deemed improper in public will be immediately arrested and handed over to judicial authorities. It will also implement gender segregation across a wide range of settings, including universities, hospitals, educational and administrative centres, parks and tourist sites. People found in breach of the new rules face a ban on leaving the country and using social media for six months to two years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There has been increased pushback against mandatory hijab laws since the death of Mahsa Amini, 22, while in the custody of morality police in September 2022. Since then, many women have chosen to go out in public without a hijab despite potential consequences. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Kamala Harris experienced the brutal reality of the transfer of power on Monday as she presided over the certification of her own defeat to rival Donald Trump. With freezing temperatures outside and snow on the ground, members of both houses gathered to hear the certified results from Novembers vote. Ms Harris, who presides over the Senate in her role as vice-president, was forced to announce the winner of each state, with her own name repeatedly interrupted by Republicans cheering and whistling at the tallies for Mr Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Minutes before, Ms Harris had to endure the awkwardness of being told, to her face, that state after state she battled to win had rejected her campaign. Behind her the House Speaker, the Republican representative Mike Johnson, could barely conceal a grin. Nancy Pelosi, the veteran California congresswoman who played a major role in Joe Bidens decision to stand down from the election in July, shuffled into the House using a walker. She fractured her hip on a trip to Europe last month. Nancy Pelosi uses a walker as she enters the House - Evelyn Hockstein/REUTERS Among Democrats, the mood was bleak, but for JD Vance, the incoming vice-president, it was a moment to shine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Trumps running mate, a senator in his own right, posed for photos as the results were announced. On Jan 20, he will replace Ms Harris as members of the second Trump administration take office. There had been fears that the ceremony would have to be postponed owing to a winter storm which has swept the east coast of the US. People run in the snow in Central Park in New York as a snow storm sweeps the east coast - TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP It was a mark of changed times that the greatest threat to the ratification of this elections results was the weather. Four years earlier, supporters of Mr Trump forced entry to the same building and rampaged around the Capitol, claiming the election had been stolen. Ms Harris called her role in the ceremony a sacred obligation that she would uphold guided by love of country, loyalty to our Constitution and my unwavering faith in the American people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking later from Capitol Hill, she told reporters that American democracy was fragile and would only live on if citizens were willing to fight for it. Her words were a warning that the scenes of Jan 6 2021 must not be forgotten. Mr Biden, speaking on the eve of the anniversary, made that point explicitly. Weve got to get back to basic, normal transfer of power, he said. I dont think we should pretend it didnt happen. JD Vance laughs as he attends the session - Annabelle Gordon/REUTERS Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Mr Trumps role in the events of Jan 6, he added: I think what he did was a genuine threat to democracy, and Im hopeful that were beyond it. Ms Harris is the sixth vice-president who has certified the victory of their opponent in the election. The first was John Breckinridge, who was defeated by Abraham Lincoln and presided over the certification of his 1860 election victory. While Hubert Humphreys ratification of Richard Nixons triumph in 1968 was routine and without controversy, the same could not be said of the other three occasions. In January 1961, Richard Nixon certified John F Kennedys victory despite Republican claims that the Democrat had stolen the election with doubts being raised over the validity of the votes in Texas and Illinois. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was similar controversy in 2001 following Al Gores wafer-thin defeat by George W Bush after the Supreme Court stopped the recount of votes in Florida, handing the state and its 25 electoral College votes to the Republicans. In both cases the defeated candidates defied pressure from their own side to refuse certification and challenge the result. Mike Pence, who was also the defeated candidate for vice-president, ratified Mr Bidens victory, defying not only Donald Trump but also the violent mob which had stormed the Capitol. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) Michigan State Police say two key pieces of technology helped catch seven suspects accused of stealing a car over the weekend. Troopers were notified Saturday night after a license plate reader in Detroit picked up the plate of a vehicle that was reported stolen. One team found the vehicle from the ground while a team in a helicopter monitored things from above. Sign up for the News 8 daily newsletter Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The trooper continued to follow the vehicle when the suspects stopped at a house in Detroit and all seven suspects ran from the car, MSP said on social media. A Michigan State Police helicopter patrol helped the agency track down seven car theft suspects on Jan. 4, 2025, in Detroit. (Courtesy MSP) Video shows the suspects pour out of the car, run through a yard and enter a home. As multiple police cars pulled up, three of the suspects ran back and tried to hide in an alley. The trooper in the helicopter kept everyone organized to track down the suspects and to make sure they werent putting one another in harms way. Ive got her: Video shows MSP K-9, trooper find missing teen after 4-mile trek You got three in the alley right now. They are right there hiding down on the ground. Watch your crossfire, too. Youre both looking at each other, both officers, the trooper said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eventually, all seven suspects were located and detained by ground units. The stolen vehicle and a firearm were recovered. First Lieutenant Mike Shaw said its not every day that you nab seven suspects from one stolen vehicle. Again we see through the use of technology and MSP aviation, another stolen car recovered and a firearm is off the streets, Shaw stated. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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) Columbus police are asking for the publics help in identifying a man who brazenly stole a package seconds after a FedEx worker delivered it. On Friday, May 31 at 12:56 p.m., an individual stole a package from the porch of a residence located in the 1300 block of Minnesota Avenue in the North Linden neighborhood. Police have labeled the incident as a felony theft, meaning the package must have been worth at least $1,000. A home security camera captured the incident. After seven months and no arrest, police posted the footage in late December, hoping a resident will recognize the suspect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Powerball winner in Ohio misses chance to claim $138 million jackpot The video shows a FedEx worker placing the package on the homes porch. Second later, a man holding a cellphone, wearing a red hoodie, dark-colored shorts and white shoes, approached the residence by crossing through the lawn. The FedEx delivery driver said You live here? to the suspect, to which no reply can be heard. The FedEx worker then took a photo of the package on the porch a common practice among transport companies to show proof of delivery just before the suspect began to walk in front of him toward the package. The delivery driver turned his back and began walking toward his truck, when the suspect picked up the package and began to leave with it. As both men walked away from the home, the suspect said, Thank you, bro, to the delivery driver. The incident is among the estimated 260,000 package thefts that occur daily across the country, according to SafeWise, a safety and security research group. The website releases an annual report on package thefts, with the most recent study estimating 120.5 million packages were stolen from porches across the country in 2023 an increase of one million from the year prior. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While thats not insignificant, it keeps pace with population numbers and doesnt indicate a real uptick in package theft activity, the report said. There are multiple steps residents can take to help keep their packages safe from porch pirates. ADT, a home security system, said video surveillance systems can help police identify and track down a suspect, as well as possibly scare away potential thieves. The company also said using porch pirate bags, a sack made out of durable material that locks onto something fixed on a porch and features a combination lock, can help keep packages safe. However, this is not a foolproof solution, since a determined criminal could cut through the product to get to the package. Other options include renting a locker through shipping companies where packages can be delivered, checking off signature required when online shopping to ensure the package is delivered directly to the customer, or adding instructions on an order for the delivery driver to leave the package in a certain spot out of plain view. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Columbus police ask anyone with information about the identity of the suspect captured in the video to contact Detective Jeff Neely at 614-645-2047, or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line at 614-461-8477. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (WOOD) President Jimmy Carter lay in repose Monday at the presidential library and museum in Atlanta that bears his name. U.S. military members kept guard as people paid respects to Carters flag-draped casket in the Carter Presidential Center. Carter died Dec. 29 at the age of 100. Funeral observances began Saturday. On Tuesday, his remains will be escorted to Washington, D.C., where he will lie in state in the Capitol Rotunda until his funeral on Thursday morning at the Washington National Cathedral. He will then returned to his home state of Georgia to be buried in a private ceremony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Associated Press contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 5WATERTOWN The City Council will meet for the first time in the new year on Monday to vote on a series of transactions involving selling small city-owned parcels. The most significant property transaction involves selling a 50-foot by 600-foot strip of land at VL Roundhouse Drive for $5,927.13 to John Bellanger, who owns Ironbell LLC. Bellanger, who owns about 17 acres near the site, would get access to the property easement so he could develop a portion of his property, VL-4 Massey Street South, for housing at the landlocked site. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr. Bellanger has proposed possibly constructing up to three homes on the parcel. If he moves forward with one house, the purchase includes several contingencies and restrictions such as providing survey mapping and property descriptions. If he moves forward with building three houses, Bellanger would be required to apply for a major subdivision that would include constructing a street to accommodate the three properties. The city also would require that city emergency vehicles have access to the site. The deal also includes the city having easement access if it decides to install and maintain utilities there in the future. Bellanger first approached the city last year with his proposal. But city department heads expressed several concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In another proposed deal, the city would sell 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85 and 86 Alexandria Ave. to Ray Worcester for $2,100. The city obtained the paper street from Barbara Beach in July 2022 as a result of the tax sale certificate process. Worcester owns adjacent properties at 89 and 90-93 Alexandria Ave. In yet a third property sale, the city would sell 565 and 571 Arsenal St. to Lloyd Little for $1,154. He recently purchased adjoining properties at 551 and 561 Arsenal St. The city acquired 565 and 571 Arsenal St. in July 2023 through the tax sale certificate process. LAKE COUNTY, Ill. An 18-year-old man and 16-year-old boy, both from Waukegan, have been charged after an extensive police chase following a shooting in Lake County. Jonathan Garcia, 18, faces two counts of aggravated unlawful possession of a firearm and two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm. A 16-year-old juvenile faces the same charges. According to the Lake County Sheriffs Department, deputies responded to the area of Green Bay Road and Bonnie Brook Lane in Beach Park following a report of a vehicle crash and a shooting around 2 a.m. Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Upon arrival, deputies found a vehicle in a ditch with extensive damage. Two women passengers in the vehicle had sustained gunshot woundsone was shot in the eye, and the other was shot in the leg, according to officials. A responding deputy applied a tourniquet to the womans leg, helping save her life. Both women were transported to area hospitals and are expected to survive. According to a preliminary investigation, the women had left a bar in North Chicago and were driving home on Green Bay Road when a grey Dodge pulled up alongside their vehicle and the occupants inside opened fire. Deputies later recovered several shell casings in the area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About 30 minutes later, a Waukegan officer spotted a grey Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat matching the description of the vehicle involved in the shooting. When officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the vehicle, the driver fled at a high rate of speed. At approximately 2:41 a.m., a Lake County Sheriffs Deputy located the vehicle and attempted to stop it, but the driver fled again at a high speed. Shortly afterward, another sheriffs deputy spotted the suspect vehicle and initiated a pursuit. However, the driver again evaded the deputy. According to authorities, a Zion police officer then deployed a tire deflation device, successfully striking the suspect vehicle. The driver temporarily maintained high speeds and again evaded officers before crashing into a heavily wooded area near Route 173 and Joana Avenue in Zion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The occupants fled from the Dodge and police canines and drones were deployed to assist in the search. Sheriffs deputies and officers located and arrested two males one juvenile and one adultin the area. Authorities said a rifle and pistol were recovered from the Dodge, and an additional pistol was found in a backyard near where one of the offenders was captured. Sheriffs detectives believe there was a third person involved, who was driving the Dodge. Officials are working to verify that information and apprehend that individual. Additional charges are possible. (Lake County Sheriffs Office) It is believed the Dodge is stolen from Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin, however, additional investigation into that aspect is ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Garcia is scheduled to appear in court Monday. The Lake County States Attorneys Office intends to file a petition to detain Garcia while awaiting trial. The juvenile was transported to the Hulse Juvenile Detention Center and a hearing will take place to determine if the juvenile will be held in secure detention. Lake County Sheriffs Detectives are actively investigating the incident. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. WASHINGTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) The Washington County Tennessee Sheriffs Office (WCSO) is stationing its mobile command post in Bumpus Cove to help with Hurricane Helene recovery efforts and provide answers about the legitimacy of volunteer organizations. On Monday at a resource expo at the Lamar Ruritan, Washington County Sheriff Keith Sexton said his office would start manning the command post on Tuesday. Weve had a lot of questions recently about this and that, and I want people to know that since it started raining, weve been in the community, Sexton said. Weve done everything we can to beef up patrols on the end of the community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sheriffs office stationed the command post on Bumpus Cove Road near Little Germany Road. The WCSO chose to place it in that location based on the number of complaints and calls in the area. Starting Jan. 7, deputies will man the post between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. for two weeks, and we invite any resident who has experienced an issue in the area to come by and speak with investigators, Sexton said. After the flood, we established a separate zone for the 107 area and assigned deputies to that zone to improve our response times. We are now checking in on residents in the most active rebuilding zone to make sure all is well as we head into cold weather. Sexton told members of the media that the command post could be staffed for longer if necessary, and the goal is to improve the sheriffs offices visibility and accessibility. All you have to do is pull up, and theyll meet you, Sexton said. You can go inside and sit down and tell them your concern or ask the question. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement County residents near the command post who need help are welcome to drop by during hours for assistance or call 911. Sexton also addressed changes to the way the county is working with volunteers in hopes of clarifying which organizations and people are legitimate. I get a lot of questions about the legitimacy of volunteers of different organizations and what theyre doing, Sexton said. To be honest with you, theres sometimes I get calls and I have to say I dont know. I dont know who youre talking about. Sexton said the sheriffs office decided to partner with the Washington County Long-Term Recovery Group to manage and verify volunteers and organizations in the area assisting flood victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want people to know if youre a volunteer and you come into this area to help, thank you. We appreciate every bit of help that you can give to the citizens of Washington County. But at the same time, you need to have some kind of legitimacy clearance. If you will work with the Long-Term Recovery Group, they can sign you up, and we can do background checks on people. Once thats clear, youll have that little piece of paper that says Look, Im legitimate. Im here to help you.' Sexton asked people in the community to be patient with law enforcement and the Long-Term Recovery Group as they navigate recovery efforts and other challenges. We all have the same goal, right? We all want to see the community recover from a thousand-year flood. Weve never had anything like this, and hopefully we never will [again]. James Hanson with the Washington County Long-Term Recovery Group told News Channel 11 that multiple recovery groups have already set up shop in the Bumpus Cove area, and more are expected to come. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Team Rubicon is one of them, said Hanson. Thats a national organization too, and theyre bringing specifically their heavy equipment crews in to help with debris removal thats still there. Hanson said navigating the challenges of a disaster area go beyond cleaning up debris (of which there is plenty). Theres a lot of things you have to work through with recovery, said Hanson. You have to find out who still had mortgages on their lands, who didnt have insurance, and so that can kind of drives the speed of the cleanup process. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The rapid fall of the Assad regime in Syria coupled with Israels weakening of Hezbollah in Lebanon and decimation of Hamas in Gaza have led to upbeat assessments in the West about the decline of Irans power and influence and the emergence of a more peaceful political order in the Middle East. However, while Irans regional clout has been eroded, that does not necessarily herald a more peaceful and stable regional security environment. In fact, there is a high chance that the new Middle East will end up being even more volatile and unstable than the old one, in large part due to the weakening of Irans regional position. The near-collapse of Irans alliance system has left Tehran more exposed, which may drive it toward riskier and more destabilizing security strategies, while creating more room for miscalculation and reckless behavior by Irans regional adversaries. These two dynamics may combine to produce greater insecurity and instability in the Middle East in the coming months and years. Syrias future remains uncertain at this point and will depend on which of its many insurgent groups end up dominating the political scene in Damascus and whether they will collectively be able to form a stable and unified government. But for now and the foreseeable future, the fall of former President Bashar al-Assads regime has removed a critical Iranian ally strategically located on Israels borders. In addition to augmenting Tehrans military capabilities, the partnership with Syria provided a strategic land bridge between Iran and Hezbollah, the most formidable militant group within Irans so-called Axis of Resistance network. As Hezbollahs new Secretary-General Naeem Qassem acknowledged recently, the removal of the Assad regime has deprived the group of this critical supply route. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The significance of this development is amplified by its timing, as it comes at the most inopportune moment for both Iran and Hezbollah. The latter is badly in need of Iranian-supplied arms and other logistical supplies to rebuild its military power and organizational capabilities after its devastating war with Israel. This situation is further compounded by Israels decimation of Hamas military and organizational capacities in Gaza, in retaliation for the groups attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. To get more in-depth news and expert analysis on global affairs from WPR, sign up for our free Daily Review newsletter. The Axis of Resistance historically enabled Iran to target its adversariesmainly Israel and U.S. forces in the regionwith some level of plausible deniability, allowing Tehran to avoid significant consequences for such attacks and direct involvement in any military conflicts they caused. This alliance system was also designed to allow Tehran to open multiple fronts against its adversaries and threaten their interests across the entire region through asymmetrical warfare in the event Iran did become directly involved in a conflict. This raised the anticipated costs of aggression against Iran, amplifying Tehrans deterrence against its adversaries. That alliance system has now been severely compromised. Hezbollah still maintains effective lethal power, but it is unlikely to regain its previous stature in the foreseeable future. Meanwhile, the Houthis and Iraqi paramilitary groups also remain largely operative, with the capacity to target Israeli and American interests in the region. But at the height of their power, Hezbollah and Hamas could rain down hundreds of short-range rockets on Israel in a given day, thereby disrupting normal life in Israeli cities, especially in border areas. By contrast, the Houthis and Iraqi paramilitary groups can only reach Israel with drones or ballistic missiles, which are more susceptible to interception and in short supply. The weakening of Irans regional position due to the fall of the Assad regime in Syria and the Israeli military campaigns in Lebanon and Gaza makes for a more volatile and precarious regional security environment. To compensate for the limitations now faced by its nonstate allies, Iran will have to rely more on its own conventional military capabilities and directly respond to military threats and challenges posed by its adversaries. This means that if tensions keep mounting between Iran and Israel, the region is likely to witness more of the direct missile exchange scenarios that played out between the two countries in April and October 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But a defense strategy based on the threat and use of direct conventional missile attacks poses its own challenges for Tehran. The main downside is that it exposes Iran to direct retaliation and the risks of a sustained military conflict with Israel, while elevating the risk of U.S. involvement in the conflict on Israels sidenot only in a defensive role as during last years exchanges, but also in an offensive role. Iran has demonstrated that it is capable of delivering effective missile strikes on Israel, with the capacity to penetrate Israels various advanced air-defense systems and the potential to cause heavy human casualties and economic damage should it choose to target Israels civilian population centers and civil infrastructure. But it has also proven to be highly vulnerable to Israels surgical counterattacks and sabotage operations. Furthermore, Irans relative conventional military weaknessespecially its inferior air power and aging fighter fleetmakes a sustained and protracted military conflict with Israel, much less with the U.S., all the more challenging. To overcome this dilemma, Iran may pursue two main strategies to deter military attacks by Israel and the U.S. or force them to deescalate should they initiate hostilities. First, Iran may up the ante by threatening to attack oil and gas infrastructures in the Persian Gulf and disrupt maritime shipping in the region, in the hopes of mobilizing de-escalation efforts by regional and global stakeholders, including oil- and gas-exporting Arab countries, as well as China, Japan, India and other major importers of Persian Gulf oil and gas. Iran has employed this gambit in the past and may resort to it more frequently in the future if tensions with Israel and the U.S. rise. Technically, this strategy is feasible, as most of the oil and gas installations in potential target countriesincluding the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrainare virtually a stones throw away from the Iranian coast and can be targeted with even short-range rockets. More distant targets, such as Saudi Arabias oil fields, can also be reached with cruise missiles and drones, as demonstrated by strikes on Saudi oil facilities in September 2019 that were widely attributed to Iran. However, this kind of escalate to de-escalate strategy would risk sparking a full-scale military conflict, as Iran would have more difficulty carrying out such attacks with plausible deniability. That means this scenario would become more credible and likely only if Irans own vital interests, such as its oil and gas facilities or its nuclear program, were endangered. Second, Iran may threaten to weaponize its nuclear program or actually do so in order to achieve the ultimate deterrence. According to latent nuclear deterrence theory, the credible threat of nuclear breakoutwhich most observers believe Iran is currently capable ofmay be sufficient to deter some actors from conflict escalation under certain circumstances. But if a potential challenger believes the opportunity for a successful preventive military attack exists, latent deterrence may not dissuade it from doubling down on confrontation. Given the risks involved in latent nuclear deterrence, Iran may decide to arm itself with nuclear weapons if it believes a strategic military attack by Israel or the U.S. is highly likely or enters a protracted military conflict with either of them, provided it can successfully assemble the weapons before detection or withstand military strikes seeking to prevent it from doing so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As mentioned, Iran currently enjoys threshold nuclear status and is believed by some Western officials and many nuclear experts to beand indeed itself claims to betechnically capable of building at least crude nuclear weapons in relatively short order. Besides possessing the technical wherewithal, various Iranian officials have also been issuing not-so-veiled warnings in recent years that Tehran may reconsider its nuclear doctrine and self-declared ban on producing nuclear weapons should Iran face existential threats. Regardless of how justified these strategies may seem to Iran, they entail great risks and may fuel regional instability and exacerbate the security dilemma facing Iran and Israel. On the other hand, Israel and the U.S. could be tempted to exploit the current weakness of Irans alliance system to score more tactical or strategic goals against Tehran and its allies. Possible measures could include conducting military strikes or covert sabotage operations against Irans nuclear sites, its military centers and installations, and its vital energy and power infrastructure; or fomenting and orchestrating political subversion, instability and disorder in Iran. Much like Irans possible strategies discussed above, however, such an approach would be highly risky and destabilizing for the whole region, as Iran still retains formidable direct and indirect retaliatory military capabilities with which it could unleash a full-blown regional crisis. Furthermore, such measures would further feed into Irans insecurity and motivate it to more actively pursue nuclear weaponization and engage in military brinkmanship in the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The weakening of Irans regional position due to the fall of the Assad regime in Syria and the Israeli military campaigns in Lebanon and Gaza makes for a more volatile and precarious regional security environment. To avoid the above scenarios and safely navigate the regions current perilous transition period, all parties concerned must exercise restraint and make genuine efforts toward regional de-escalation and confidence-building. The alternative is a new Middle East that looks a lot like the old one, but worse. Abolghasem Bayyenat is currently a Farzaneh Family postdoctoral fellow in Iranian studies at the University of Oklahoma. Previously, he was a postdoctoral fellow in nuclear security at Harvard University. He received his doctoral degree in political science from Syracuse University and wrote his doctoral dissertation on Irans nuclear policymaking. Our Latest Iran Coverage: The post A Weakened Iran Doesnt Mean a More Peaceful Middle East appeared first on World Politics Review. Late last year, I started writing a column on generative AI. I interviewed a few folks and got down a few hundred words before I was overtaken by the events of a hectic election year, during which "gotta finish that AI column" was always at the back of my mind, even if I never got around to it. Here's the punchline: I'd been worried about what the future of AI might hold. But while I wasn't paying attention, the future arrived. And AI won. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I suppose I had assumed that most reasonable adults would view AI as skeptically as I did. Its shortcomings are well-documented, and haven't we all seen "Terminator"? But when a friend posted to social media asking other professionals how they use AI, the answers were effusive: To organize notes, to generate ideas, to write press releases. When a group of college students visited the Free Press, I was stunned to hear that particular class is required to use AI their prestigious university has its own "safe" AI that protects students by not feeding their data into a larger learning model. A nauseating commercial for a big tech firm's phones shows lonely people chattering away to the company's shiny new AI as though it were a long-lost friend. When an acquaintance reported working alongside students at a coffee shop seemingly pasting material from generative AI directly into assignments, the ensuing online conversation revolved around ethical use of AI, not how to shut down behavior it seems like most folks would consider inherently dishonest. The search bars on Facebook and Instagram have been replaced by AI-assisted search, which confuses the crap out of me; maybe I'm old, but it all just seems unnecessary. I may have misjudged my fellow humans. But I'm not wrong about AI. We're jumping feet first into unreliable, unproven tech with devastating environmental costs and a dense thicket of ethical problems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It's a bad idea. And because I enjoy shouting into the void we really ought to stop. More from Nancy Kaffer: America is divided. We have to find connection to have a future as a nation. Blame Big Data The field of artificial intelligence research started after World War II as a reaction to the philosophical and psychological school of behaviorism that reduced humans to, well, a set of behaviors, explained Robin Zebrowski, an old college friend, a professor of cognitive science at Beloit College and an internationally recognized expert in the cognition of artificial intelligence, who publishes papers with titles like "Carving Up Participation: Sense-Making and Sociomorphing for Artificial Minds" and "The AI Wars, 19502000, and Their Consequences." In the 1950 paper "Computing Machinery and Intelligence," the British mathematician Alan Turing (the man who broke Germany's World War II Enigma code, and was later criminally prosecuted by his own government for being gay) posed a question: Can a machine think in a human-enough way to pass as a human? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scientists of that era became fascinated by the why and how of consciousness, and whether it was possible to build a machine that could pass what had become known as the Turing Test. "Im very sympathetic to the mad science of it, but part of it is really like, 'Why cant we do this? Lets try it!' which morally is a little dicey," Zebrowski said. "But there was no danger in playing with these systems, because they weren't very good at what they did, and what they did was not what we do." ("Consciousness is so weird," she adds. "We have no idea how it emerges. We're not putting that into a machine anytime soon.") AI still doesn't do what we do, but these days, it looks a lot more like it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new generative AI models like ChatGPT or Gemini don't exist because of a big leap in technology they're are essentially text prediction machines, and the neural net technology that powers them has been been around since the 1980s, Zebrowski said But data our data has become a commodity. "We have the ability to suck up everyones data and run it into the grinder," Zebrowski said. "What changed is the availability of data at scale." 'AI has no concept of truth' With more data, text prediction machines like Gemini or ChatGPT have an infinitely larger set of responses to offer even if some of that data is bad. The output of an AI system will always reflect a learning model trained on misinformation or biased information, Zebrowski said, and "the current AI models were trained on the dregs of the internet." In 2022, the news outlet CNET quietly started using AI to write some stories. Within months, it had to end the practice, issuing corrections on half of the stories produced by AI. Just this month, a handful of media outlets issued corrections or retractions after a slew of stories, apparently researched using generative AI, falsely claimed that President George H.W. Bush had pardoned his son, Neil. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And those are just AI's most high-profile, publicly embarrassing flops. Now imagine that at scale, across all of those meeting notes and panel questions and college assignments. These outcomes, Zebrowski said, should surprise no one. "Thats the nature of how the system works," she said. "It will always be filled with inaccuracies, because AI has no concept of truth." So much for ethics As far as "Terminator" goes, Zebrowski assured me, that's still pretty unlikely. But that doesn't mean AI, and the way we use it, isn't dangerous. "Right now, AI is mostly hype. But its doing a lot of damage and it's not doing a lot of good yet," she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But this is how humans do tech: Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead. And that's how we're doing AI using it for panel questions and meeting notes and research papers, for medical diagnosis, for homework assignments, to crunch data and replace workers absent any reasonable regulatory or universally recognized ethical guidelines. The general consensus seems to be that the horse has left the barn, and that any effort to coax it back into its stall is futile. Instead, the argument goes, we've got to learn to ride the horse, or we'll get trampled. That college professor who visited the Free Press said she's teaching her students ethical use of AI. But that's part of the problem: Can AI be used ethically? It's a question the big tech companies may not be interested in answering. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ethicists had rung a lot of alarms about AI "had," in some cases, being the operative word. Google forced out its lead AI ethicist in 2020. Microsoft laid off its entire AI ethics and society team back in 2023. Open AI's ethics team was disbanded just last year. The U.S. government has failed to adopt any meaningful regulation or guidelines for AI development or use, compared to the European Union, and at least one person (that'd be Elon Musk) who is heavily invested in the proliferation of AI wields outsized influence in the incoming presidential administration. AI ethicists have laid out very clear guidelines, Zebrowski said, calling for things like government regulation of these systems. "But that's unlikely to happen, in part because if you look at who the government is calling in to give them advice about this, it's the CEOs and the people who benefit from AI, so that's going to go poorly," she said. "There's lots of people in particularly marginalized communities who have pointed out specific dangers and specific harms, and they're not getting the audience with the president. So the regulation that we need is very unlikely to show up, at least in the U.S., and that's where most of the companies are headquartered. "My guess is, it's going to get a lot worse before it gets better, if it gets better." Follow the money Here's the other thing about AI: It's a product big tech companies have spent big money to develop even if it doesn't actually do what they're saying, or at least implying, it does. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You hear Sam Altman, the CEO of Open AI, say openly at a government hearing that he's genuinely worried about what these systems will do, like he didn't release it into the world," she said. "It kills me that the public hears this hype that makes it sound like AI is actually going to be super intelligence, and it's going to be smarter and quicker and more powerful than humans, when the companies benefitting from the hype are making the models. "There's a reason for the hype, and its mostly money. And that means the public doesn't actually know how these systems work, and what we should or should not use them for." Hence that helpful commercial depicting AI making thoughtful gift suggestions, or regaling its owner with stories about nature. Tech companies want us to believe that AI like smartphones and social media and Bluetooth clothes dryers and refrigerators that us when we're out of milk is essential to our lives. And tech companies have a great track record at this kind of market bombardment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The New York Times Magazine's Willy Staley detailed the tech marketing model in a recent piece about Netflix, explaining how the company charged through years of debt to emerge an essential household service: "If you applied the logic of the media business to Netflix, it looked uncertain, but Netflix was operating by tech-sector rules spending boatloads of cash to acquire customers, changing their habits and overwhelming competitors until, at the other end, an entire industry was transformed." More from Nancy Kaffer: Trump says he has 'no choice' on mass deportation. It will change Michigan. Elon Musk, obviously Before Google parted ways with its ethicist, Temnit Gebru, she and five other researchers produced a draft paper outlining the chief harms risked by AI. In addition to the inscrutability of AI learning models and the certainty that it will incorporate misinformation, AI systems are trained on data sets generated by people with the most access to technology, creating a dataset biased toward more affluent, tech-friendly people, and nations. (Gebru is the researcher who identified problems with the way facial recognition software identifies women and people of color.) Gebru and her team also flagged the environmental consequences of AI training a learning model sucks down an enormous amount of energy, resulting in an explosion of emissions costs likely to be born by marginalized communities for the benefit of more prosperous organizations or individuals. A data center just outside Memphis that will provide computing power for Elon Musk's xAI houses 18 or more portable methane gas generations, installed without permits, and which residents say emit a constant stream of hazy but visible smoke. The historically Black community is no stranger to environmental injustice, but AI presents a new front in this fight: One researcher estimates that a single query to a chatbot uses enough energy to power a lightbulb for 20 minutes. 40 minutes of lightbulb time Last year, I asked ChatGPT to write a column "in the style of Michigan journalist Nancy Kaffer," and it kind of delivered. "In the heart of the Great Lakes State, where opportunity should flow freely like our pristine waters, there exists a deep chasm of inequality that threatens the very existence of our society. The battleground for this struggle is none other than our education system a system that is supposed to uplift, empower and prepare our future leaders." It goes on in similar fashion "as we stand at the crossroads of progress, it is imperative that we address this issue head-on" "together, let us forge a path towards a truly equitable education system." I do write about equity in education. But this is laughably bad: Perky and surface, laden with cliches and grand diction, offering little substance and the tone of a well-informed high school sophomore. When I made the same request last month, the result was strikingly different. "Michigan's infrastructure is in a quiet crisis," ChatGPT wrote. "It's not a flashy issue that makes the front pages of newspapers or trends on Twitter, but it impacts the daily lives of millions. The cracks in our roads, the flaking paint on bridges, the overworked water systems they're all symptoms of a larger more systemic problem that requires urgent attention, not just for the sake of convenience, but for the state's future economic stability. ... Theres a growing call among policymakers to make bold investments in infrastructure, to stop kicking the can down the road. Yet were still caught in the tug-of-war between short-term political wins and long-term, necessary spending. Fixing Michigans infrastructure is not just a matter of putting a few more dollars into road repair its about ensuring the state can compete, thrive, and support its citizens well into the future. For those of us living here, the frustration is palpable." I can still tell it's not me. But it's a bundle of phrases I might use and ideas I might endorse, even if it's pasted together without much art or depth. ChatGPT is learning how to be me, and it's getting better at it and I'd be lying if I didn't admit that I'm a little worried about what it might deliver a year from now. The future I'm joking about "Terminator." Mostly. I love technology: I was an early adopter of the iPhone, and I like to remind my Gen Z son that modern Xboxes and PlayStations exist because in 1987, I used my babysitting money to buy the first Nintendo. But when it comes to AI and machine learning, there's also "The Matrix," likewise set in a machine-dominated dystopian future, and "Bladerunner," "Rossum's Universal Robots" and "The Veldt," Isaac Asimov's Three Laws of Robotics, and I can tell you that on the point of this, and it not ending well, the literature is unanimous. It's fiction, sure, but look at the last century: We can only achieve what we can imagine, and science fiction helps us imagine what sort of future is possible. Or the sort of future we really do not want. That thing earlier, about the horse and the barn, is a persuasive metaphor. Let's consider a knife, instead. You can spend a lot of effort rendering the knife harmless, wrapping it in tinfoil or duct tape or dulling the blade or you could just put it down. Rarely in history have humans voluntarily relinquished technology. One notable exception: the atomic bomb. "We did it, we deployed it, most people regretted it, and that spurred decades of us trying to manage and mitigate the fallout from that technology," Zebrowski said. "Everyone was like, 'OK, let's not do this,' but of course, secretly, everyone's still doing it. There's not really a way to tell the whole world we can't pursue this technology. But I really think nuclear technology is the closest analogy I can think of. Because we did all finally agree, or at least mostly, most countries finally agreed, this was not something we should be doing." There are a lot of ethicists out there who have suggested policy frameworks for the use of AI. For lawmakers who'd like to bring some rationality to this question, such guidelines are easy to find. (If you're a university, you probably have an ethicist or two on staff.) But when I consider the inherent bias and propensity for error embedded in AI learning sets, the potential for mass shutouts from the workforce and a generation that never got to learn critical thinking skills, because AI did it all for them, I keep coming back to that thing about the knife and one thing more: You can't be part of the solution if you're part of the problem. You don't have to use AI. And if you do, maybe you should stop. Nancy Kaffer is the editorial page editor of the Detroit Free Press. Contact: nkaffer@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: AI is no good, and we should stop using it | Opinion British Prime Minister Keir Starmer did not name Elon Musk directly, but it was clear who he was condemning when he told reporters that people were "spreading lies and misinformation" about child abuse in his country, falsely accusing the U.K. leader of failing to prosecute foreign-born predators. "We have seen this playbook many times whipping up of intimidation and of threats of violence, hoping that the media will amplify it," Starmer said at a press conference Monday, the BBC reported. "Those who are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible are not interested in victims, they're interested in themselves." Starmer, who last year led his center-left Labour Party to victory after 14 years of Conservative rule, was addressing bogus claims spread by Musk and others that he did not take action to address the threat of so-called "grooming gangs" that targeted children for sexual exploitation. Prior to leading the Labour Party, Starmer served as director of the Crown Prosecution Service from 2008 to 2013 and was the first to bring a case against one such gang, The New York Times reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "When I left office, we had the highest number of child sexual abuse cases being prosecuted on record," Starmer said Monday. "The victims here suffered terrible abuse and then they weren't listened to." Musk, who spread the false claims on his social media platform, X, has for months targeted the current British government with far-right disinformation. In the summer of 2024, Musk asserted that "civil war is inevitable" in Britain after right-wing extremists attacked immigrants across the country, incited by a false claim spread on X that a child murderer had been an asylum-seeker (the alleged murdered was in fact a native-born British citizen). More recently, Musk has called for the freeing of the fascist anti-immigrant activist Tommy Robinson and, over the weekend, asked his followers if they believe the U.S. government should forcibly "liberate" Britain. Starmer, speaking Monday, accused Musk and others of "trying to get some vicarious thrill from street violence that people like Tommy Robinson support," per the Associated Press. Musk's support for the British far right comes after he dropped more than $250 million to elect Donald Trump and follows his public endorsement of Alternative for Germany, an extremist party that critics say is led by Nazi sympathizers. Lin Jian: Ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon. It is with great pleasure that I introduce to you my colleagueMr. Guo Jiakun, new Foreign Ministry Spokesperson and Deputy Director General of the Department of Press, Communication and Public Diplomacy. He will start holding the regular press conference today as the Foreign Ministrys 35th spokesperson. Having served in the Foreign Ministry for 23 years, Jiakun has a well of experience in diplomacy and excellent communication skill. Hope you will support his work just as you have supported me and the other spokespersons. With that note, let me give the floor to Jiakun. Guo Jiakun: Ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon. It is such an honor to serve as Foreign Ministry Spokesperson and a great pleasure to meet all of you. From this podium, I will do my level best to communicate Chinas foreign policy with timeliness, accuracy and clarity and present to you the remarkable stories of Chinese modernization, so that through your writing, your lens and your microphone, the world gets to know a true, multi-dimensional China in an all-round way. I look forward to working closely with you and to having good mutual understanding and support with all of you. Thank you! At the invitation of the government of the Republic of Ghana, President Xi Jinpings special envoy and Vice Chairperson of the Standing Committee of the National Peoples Congress Hao Mingjin will attend President John Dramani Mahamas inauguration in Accra, the capital city of Ghana, on January 7. CCTV: Foreign Minister Wang Yi this week officially started his visit to four African countries, which also marks the 35th year for the Chinese foreign ministers to make Africa their first overseas destination at the start of the year. Can you tell us how does China see Africa and whats Chinas view on the development prospect of African countries? Guo Jiakun: China is the worlds largest developing country and Africa is the continent home to the largest number of developing countries. China and Africa share time-honored friendship. Under the personal guidance of President Xi Jinping, the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) was successfully held in 2024 and China-Africa relations entered the new phase of an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. The fine tradition for Chinese foreign ministers to start their year-round overseas visits with a trip to Africa speaks to the growing profound friendship between China and Africa and the continuity of Chinas friendly cooperation with Africa. China always believes that Africa is never the lost continent, but the land of hope and source of dynamism. Africa betters global governance with the power of transformation. Under the guidance of Pan-Africanism, African countries have accelerated the integration process of seeking strength through unity and pursuing development and revitalization, playing an increasingly important role in international affairs. Africa powers global economic growth. The African Development Bank predicted that Africas average growth would rise to 3.7 percent in 2024, exceeding the projected global average. Among the 20 fastest growing economies in the world, 10 are African countries. Africa is one of the birthplaces of the civilization of mankind, and also a land full of vigor and hope, with 70 percent of its population under the age of 30, the youngest in the world. Amid the transformation in the world unseen in a century, the booming development of the Global South, such as China and Africa, has a profound impact on world historical progress. A stronger and more developed Africa will surely make greater contribution to world peace and development. Yonhap News Agency: The ROKs Joint Chiefs of Staff said that the DPRK launched an intermediate-range ballistic missile towards the ROKs eastern waters. This is the second ballistic missile the DPRK fired since November last year. How does China see the launch? Guo Jiakun: Chinas position on the Korean Peninsula issue is consistent and clear. On relevant launch activities, I have no new comments to make. Reuters: India said that it has conveyed to China its concern about Chinas development of its huge hydro dam in Yarlung Zangbo in Tibet. Today we have the US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in India to listen to Indias concern. My question is, has China done anything or said anything to India to reassure India and does the US have a role to play here? Guo Jiakun: On the hydropower project in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River, China has made its position clear. Let me reiterate that the decision to build the project was made after rigorous scientific evaluation and the project will not have a negative impact on the ecological environment, geological conditions and the rights and interests related to water resources of downstream countries. Rather, it will, to some extent, help with their disaster prevention and reduction and climate response. Yomiuri Shimbun: Last Friday, the US government blocked Nippon Steel of Japan from buying US Steel. Some people in the American industry have criticized that this decision is unfair. There have also been reports that this decision should be welcomed by the Chinese steel industry and government. How does the Chinese government react to this? Guo Jiakun: We noted relevant reports. We dont comment on the specific business deal between the US and Japanese companies. Weve always believed that countries should uphold the principle of fair competition and the WTO rules, and play an active role for an orderly global market and the health of international trade. China Daily: This year marks the 30th anniversary of the founding of the WTO. We noted a recent article in Forbes saying that if the protectionist threats materialize, not only global trade will be damaged, but the WTOs dispute settlement mechanism will face a crisis. An article from The New York Times says that the small yard, high fence strategy came with sharp economic and diplomatic costs. US companies worried that the high fence might shut them out from the Chinese market. What is your comment? Guo Jiakun: The WTO is at the core of the multilateral trade system. Over the past 30 years since its founding, the WTO has, through providing an open, stable and predictable institutional environment, ensured that global trade is conducted in an overall steady and orderly manner, enhanced trade and economic cooperation between members, supported developing economies in participating in and benefiting from economic globalization, and made important contribution to improving the wellbeing of people of various countries and promoting sustainable development. Free trade is an essential condition for world economy to grow. The ultimate goal of free trade is to achieve mutually beneficial result and common development. Engaging in protectionism and building small yard, high fence seriously disrupts the global industrial and supply chains and harms the common and long-term interests of all countries. China will continue to honor its commitments made at its accession to the WTO, and work with the rest of the world to safeguard the multilateral trade system with the WTO at its core, promote global trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, and deliver more benefit to the world. AFP: The US Department of the Treasury last Friday sanctioned a Beijing-based cybersecurity company, accusing it of helping Chinese hackers infiltrate US telecommunication system and conduct surveillance. Whats Chinas comment? Guo Jiakun: On the so-called issue of cyberattacks, China has made clear our position more than once. China has all along firmly opposed hacking and fights it in accordance with law. We urge the US to stop using the issue of cybersecurity to vilify and smear China. For quite some time, the US has been trumpeting so-called Chinese hacking and even using it to impose illegal and unilateral sanctions on China. China firmly rejects this and will do what is necessary to safeguard our lawful rights and interests. Beijing Youth Daily: Recently, Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Nurlan Yermekbayev said in an interview that it is wrong to compare NATO and the SCO. The SCO is not a product of the Cold War, and it was not created in the conditions or for the purpose of confrontation with anyone. The organization emphasizes the non-aligned and de-ideologized nature and is for peace and cooperation. Do you have any comment on this? Guo Jiakun: I noted Secretary-General Nurlan Yermekbayevs remarks. Since its founding 24 years ago, the SCO has attracted an increasing number of partners and boasted higher-quality development. It has now become a regional organization that covers the largest area and population. The code of success for the SCO, which grows with strong vitality and strong impetus for cooperation, is that it puts forward and practices the Shanghai Spirit, a creative vision that champions mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diversity of civilizations and pursuit of common development. This transcends the outdated idea of the clash of civilizations, Cold War mentality and zero-sum mindset as well as the old paradigm of forming exclusive circles, and turns an entirely new page on international relations. As the rotating chair of the SCO, China will act on the slogan of Upholding the Shanghai Spirit: SCO on the Move, bring member states together for deeper cooperation in the fields of politics, security, economy and cultural and people-to-people exchanges, and jointly build an even closer SCO community with a shared future. AFP: The Taiwan authorities yesterday said that in 2024, Taiwans government faced an average of 2.4 million cyberattacks per day, with most of them attributed to Chinese cyber forces. Can you confirm that? Guo Jiakun: Thats not a question about foreign affairs. Dave Phillips was one of the numerous whale experts who helped the orca star of Free Willy return to the wild Now, Phillips is working to help two other whales in captivity at a closed marine park in France Animal lovers are fighting to move killer whales Wikie and Keijo to a sea sanctuary in Canada After helping Free Willy taste freedom, Dave Phillips is working to give two other orcas a life outside captivity, Phillips, a director of the International Marine Mammal Project at Earth Island Institute, was one the first people tapped to help with the ambitious project of returning the whale actor from Free Willy to the wild. The orca Keiko was taken from the wild as a young whale before spending most of his life in captivity. Once fans, especially children, of the 1993 film learned that the animal star didn't enjoy the same freedoms as the whale in the movie, they pushed Warner Brothers to change things for the killer whale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These pleas led to a rewilding effort that spanned years and multiple countries. Phillips said it had "no roadmap at all " because it was a first-of-its-kind endeavor. Keiko's journey and the final result of the rewilding project were covered in "The Good Whale," a 2024 podcast from "Serial" and The New York Times. Free Willy Keiko Foundation Keiko the killer whale Keiko the killer whale Phillips tells PEOPLE he hopes the podcast and the reemergence of Keiko's amazing story inspire animal lovers to assist two orcas who need help now: Wikie and Keijo. Wikie, 23, and her 11-year-old son Keijo have spent their entire lives in captivity and currently reside at Marineland Antibes in the French Riviera. The pair are the only captive orcas in France. According to the BBC, Marineland Antibes officially closed on Jan 5 in response to legislation passed in 2021 banning the use of dolphins and whales in marine zoo shows in France. The legislation will go into effect next year. Related: Orca Known for Carrying Her Dead Calf for 17 Days in 2018 Is Grieving the Loss of New Calf in the Same Way Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following the closure, the marine park's workers and animal residents, including Wikie and Keijo, have uncertain futures. While Phillips agrees that the legislation overall is "good news" for animals, he worries about what will happen to the mother-son orca duo. @petite_photographe_animaliere/Instagram, inherentlywild.co.uk Wikie and Keijo Wikie and Keijo Phillips tells PEOPLE that Marineland Antibes has expressed interest in selling and sending the killer whales to another marine park. Initially, Marineland Antibes planned to send the orcas to a park in Japan, but they encountered pushback from animal rights activists and the French government, which cited Japan's laxer marine animal protection laws. Marineland Antibes is still considering sending Wikie and Keijo to another marine park, but Phillips and other animal rights supporters are pushing to move them to a sea sanctuary instead. Related: Killer Whales Are Hunting Whale Sharks the Largest Fish in the World, New Photos and Study Show Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because both orcas were born in captivity, neither animal is a good candidate for release into the wild. According to Phillips, a sea sanctuary a secured area of open ocean where whales indulge in natural behavior with no demands to perform would be the next best thing to freedom. The Whale Sanctuary Project is closing off dozens of acres of seawater in a Canadian bay to provide Wikie and Keijo a life that encourages relaxation and curiosity. "They would have much more space and natural seawater," Phillips says of some of the sea sanctuary's many perks. @petite_photographe_animaliere/Instagram, inherentlywild.co.uk Wikie and Keijo Wikie and Keijo "They need to go to a retirement, into a sanctuary. From all points of view, it's so much better that they're not performing," he adds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Phillips, members of the French government also agree with this plan. "The French government appointed an inspector general to analyze Wikie and Keijo's situation and recommend what the government should do. That inspector general did a very thorough report, 150 pages, and sought information from the public, other captive facilities, and aquariums from around the world. They came up with a really landmark recommendation saying that they highly recommended that the two orcas go to a seaside sanctuary," he explains, adding that the inspector general specifically recommended the sanctuary The Whale Sanctuary Project is constructing in a Nova Scotia bay. Philips says that since the inspector general's recommendation, no moves have been made to mandate that Marineland Antibes send its remaining orcas to a sanctuary, which means the marine park could still sell the animals to another facility. Animal lovers can help encourage the French government and Marineland Antibes to move Wikie and Keijo to a sea sanctuary by signing a petition and sharing the whales' story. Phillips is confident a chorus of outspoken voices can lead to change because it happened with Keiko. Free Willy Keiko Foundation Keiko the orca Keiko the orca Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We can be a rising effort. After the Free Willy movie, one of the biggest things that made it possible for us to help Keiko was the level of public support. There were a lot of kids who were hit by Free Willy so hard. They just were so taken by it that they wanted to see something happen. Those folks pushed for changes in lots of ways," Phillips says. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. "The Keiko legacy is about helping other whales in captivity and getting them out of concrete tanks," he adds. To read the petition and sign, visit KeikoProject.org. Those curious about the current numbers of orcas in captivity and what can be done to help them are encouraged to visit InternationalMarineMammalProject.org Read the original article on People WHEATON, Ill. A west suburban man is accused of stealing more than $700 in lottery tickets from an Elmhurst convenience store, DuPage County prosecutors announced Monday. Yonas Beyene, 37, of Wheaton is charged with felony counts of continuing a financial crime enterprise, burglary and retail theft following an initial court appearance on Monday, Jan. 6. Charges stem from a Dec. 21 incident at a 7-Eleven located in the 100 block of E. First Street. Yonas Beyene Man, 32, found fatally shot on West Side sidewalk Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors allege that around 11:20 p.m., Beyene entered the 7-Eleven store and spoke with a store clerk about staying inside to warm up and charge his phone while waiting for a ride. According to prosecutors, around 1:50 a.m., when the store clerk went to the cooler, Beyene allegedly reached around the lottery display and removed $730 worth of scratch-off tickets from two containers. He then fled the scene. Further investigation revealed that police might suspect Beyene of several lottery thefts in Addison, Winfield, Carol Stream, Hanover Park, Oakbrook Terrace, and Lombard. Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police arrested Beyene shortly after officers observed him leaving a Villa Park-area motel on Friday, Jan. 3. A judge on Monday denied him pre-trial release. Beyene is due back in court on Monday, Jan. 27. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Alabama Gov. Albert Brewer shakes hands with former Gov. George Wallace on May 7, 1968, shortly after Brewer was sworn into office. Brewer succeeds former Gov. Lurleen Wallace, George Wallace's wife, who had died in office. Brewer had been an ally of George Wallace early in his first term, but the relationship collapsed amid Wallace's presidential ambitions and a bitter battle for the 1970 Democratic gubernatorial nomination, in which Wallace used overt racism against Brewer. (Alabama Department of Archives and History) We have about 16 months before the 2026 state Republican primaries, the only elections that matter in Alabama. Big offices, including governor and attorney general, will be up for grabs. That means a lot of GOP candidates, many with little to no name recognition, will fight for the attention of the 20% of the adult population of Alabama who vote in the primary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I wish that would mean serious discussions of issues like criminal justice and health care. But we know what theyll talk about. Crude jokes about Hispanic immigrants. Bullying transgender youths. Complaints about a border hundreds of miles out of state. Shotgun. Pistol. Shotgun. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The 2025 legislative session, which starts next month, will give ambitious politicians and those ready to leverage the ambitions of politicians the chance to push any number of cruel and crude bills into law. Already we have prefiled legislation from House Majority Leader Scott Stadthagen, R-Hartselle targeting drag shows and overnight programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It feels rote at this point, but all these bills rest on a foundation of paranoia and to put it charitably distortion. To sell a bathroom ban in 2022, Stadthagen used a story about a 2010 assault on a student that the victims attorney said had nothing to do with transgender people. Now hes invoking the Space Camp non-controversy from last year, whipped up by the states conservative media, that led to threats to employees at that institution. But the bills passage wouldnt shock me. Paranoia is a good 30% to 35% of Alabamas law code. It keeps politicians employed. Still, I want to remind legislators of the lives of two of their predecessors: Albert Brewer and George Wallace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both men planted roots in the Alabama Legislature early in their careers. Wallace got to the governors mansion first in 1963, riding every awful impulse of the white Alabamian to do so. When he was term-limited out of office in 1966, he got his wife Lurleen to run as his proxy. Lurleen Wallace died of cancer a little over a year into her term, leaving the office to Brewer, who had been her lieutenant governor. Unlike George Wallace, who lost interest in administration the second he was inaugurated, Brewer cared about governing. He took steps to correct some of the blatant corruption of the Wallace era and kept a focus on state issues, doing important work on health care and highway construction. Not all of Brewers stands were admirable: faced with long-delayed federal school desegregation orders, he advocated school choice programs that in practice would have kept Alabamas schools racially divided. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But by the time Brewer sought a term in his own right in 1970 at the same time another responsible politician named Jimmy Carter ran for governor of Georgia he was moving toward a more inclusive and constructive vision for Alabama than Wallace had ever offered. Brewer pushed for ethics laws and a commission to revise the states 1901 constitution, framed to disenfranchise Blacks and poor whites. Brewer met Wallace in the primary. Wallace had a desperate desire to be president which he couldnt do without first being governor so he acted like a desperate man. First, he used dog whistles. Then he turned to out-and-out racism as a blunt force object on voters. And Wallace won. Thats what politicians in Alabama do: tell white voters that their basest instincts and most cowardly fears are right and just. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its likely fear, real or imagined, will dominate the 2026 election. The person who screams the loudest and hates the most will have the advantage. But let me give that person and every legislator dealing in hate this year a reminder of how Wallace and Brewer ended their lives. Wallace spent his twilight years in a state that had changed despite his anger and crude manipulations of white voters. He managed to get a fourth term in office in 1982. But he spent much of it trying to explain why he had upheld the evils of the states apartheid policy. He did so in an extremely self-serving manner I was misled was his usual line of argument. But that was all he could talk about. Wallace did nothing for the people of Alabama. Certainly nothing lasting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After a failed run for governor in 1978, Brewer became a professor at Cumberland School of Law at Samford University. Ive met a few of his former students, who all spoke warmly of him. Brewer continued pushing for constitutional reform and chaired a committee that made several constitutional revision proposals, some of which became law. At those committee meetings, he was a serious but kind presence, a man who looked far younger than his 80-something years and commanded the respect and esteem of those present, many of whom could regret the choices those voters in 1970 made. So to the folks at the Statehouse, especially those looking to the 2026 elections: Be Albert Brewer. Not George Wallace. Dont bait the voters. Take a chance of doing something good with the power you have. Because all political careers end. And if yours ends like Wallaces, youll have nothing to celebrate and a lot to answer for. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Gov. Tony Evers ordered flags in Wisconsin to fly at half-staff Monday in honor of former Wisconsin State Sen. George Petak, who died on Dec. 24 at the age of 75. Sen. Petak was a man of faith, courage, and principle. He truly had a servants heart, always leading with empathy and integrity to give back and do more for others," Evers wrote in a Christmas Eve statement. "Kathy [Evers] and I join the people of Wisconsin in mourning the loss of Sen. Petak and offer our sincerest sympathies to his wife, kids, loved ones, and the many whose lives he touched. Petak was elected to the Racine Unified School District Board of Education in 1983 and served in various positions, including president, until 1990, when he was elected to the Wisconsin State Senate and represented the 21st Senate District. In 1994, Petak won his reelection to the Senate and served until 1996. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Petak famously cast the deciding vote to provide funding to build Miller Park the home of the Milwaukee Brewers now known as American Family Field. Following his time in the Senate, Petak was appointed as deputy executive director of the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) by former Gov. Tommy Thompson and served there until 1998. From 2013 to 2016, Petak served as an administrator at the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions Division of Corporate and Consumer Services. Then, in 2016, Petak returned to WHEDA and served as a senior business and community engagement officer until his retirement in 2020. Services for Petak will be held on Mon, Jan. 6, 2025, in Colorado. When will flags fly at half-staff? The American flag and Wisconsin state flag will fly at half-staff on Monday, Jan. 6. How long will flags fly at half-staff? The two flags will fly at half-staff from sunrise to sunset, per Evers' executive order. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, the flags will concurrently be flown at half-staff pursuant to Executive Order #249, in remembrance of former President Jimmy Carter. Under that order, flags in the state will be flown at half-staff until sunset on Tuesday, Jan. 28. Where will flags fly at half-staff? The flags will fly at half-staff at all buildings, grounds and military installations belonging to the state of Wisconsin, per Evers executive order. Why do flags fly at half-staff? According to Usa.gov, flags are usually flown at half-staff following national tragedies or deaths of government officials, military members or other first responders. Flags can also be flown at half-staff for Memorial Day or other national days of remembrance. Tom Daykin and Cailey Gleeson contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Why are the flags flying at half-staff today in Wisconsin? House Majority Leader Mike Lefor, R-Dickinson, center, participates in the special session of the Legislature on Oct. 23, 2023, which was required after a ruling from the state Supreme Court. (Kyle Martin/For the North Dakota Monitor) This legislative session, lawmakers will no longer have access to a loophole for 11th-hour policy changes. Historically, the budget bill for the Office of Management and Budget was lawmakers last chance to approve new funding requests, to revive defeated bills or to fix typos in existing laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since the bill is traditionally the last bill to pass, legislators would treat it as a vehicle for other unrelated legislation. It was sometimes called a Christmas tree bill because it received so many miscellaneous amendments. More 2025 legislative session coverage But the North Dakota Supreme Court in 2023 declared the practice unconstitutional. Lawmakers will have to find a new approach for the upcoming session, which starts Tuesday. We dont have a particular process worked out, but well certainly be aware that they cant put non-related things into the OMB bill, Legislative Council Director John Bjornson said. John Bjornson, director of the North Dakota Legislative Council, speaks during a meeting of the Legislative Management Committee on Nov. 13, 2024. (Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor) The Supreme Court ruling resulted from a legal challenge to the 2023 OMB bill brought by the North Dakota Public Employee Retirement System board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 2023 OMB bill included amendments to increase the number of board members from nine to 11, and to grow the number appointed by the Legislature from two to four. Lawmakers had originally brought those changes as an individual bill, but the measure failed. Other provisions in the 2023 OMB bill included topics as wide-ranging as school funding, public infrastructure, business grants and drug regulations. It was the last bill of the session to pass, clearing its final vote at roughly 3 a.m. on a weekend, The Associated Press reported. Under the state constitution, bills are only supposed to about one thing. It states that no bill may embrace more than one subject, which must be expressed in its title a clause commonly referred to as the single subject rule. The provision is intended to prevent lawmakers from using bills with majority support as vehicles to pass unrelated, less popular policies. The PERS board filed suit against the Legislature, arguing in part that the OMB bill violated the single subject rule. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Legislature claimed the bill didnt violate the state constitution because everything in it fell under the single subject of government operations. It also argued that the state Supreme Court had previously interpreted the single subject rule loosely, and that state laws have a presumption of constitutionality. The North Dakota Supreme Court sided with the PERS board and found the law to be of no effect. Former Gov. Doug Burgum declared a special session in October 2023 to replace the voided legislation. According to Bjornson, the 2023 special session cost taxpayers $295,611. Legislative Council has had discussions with legislative leadership about how to avoid future legal challenges over the single subject rule, Bjornson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said lawmakers are always taught about the constitutional provision during training. We probably did emphasize it more this time, Bjornson said. House Majority Leader Mike Lefor, R-Dickinson, said he is quite confident lawmakers understand the implications of the Supreme Courts ruling. Legislators will have to make sure their funding requests go into the appropriate budget, Lefor said. If they want funding for something that should be in Commerce, they need to put it in Commerce, he said. It wont be considered at the end of the year. OMB Director Joe Morrissette said he doesnt anticipate the ruling to have any impact on his agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They were tacked onto our bill, but they had really no connection to us in most cases, he said. The decision will also affect how lawmakers fix errors in legislation passed earlier in the session like typos, missing words or incorrect cross-references to other laws. Previously, those changes were rolled into the OMB bill. This time, the Legislature may decide to bring a general technical corrections bill instead, Bjornson said. While theres no drop-dead deadline for introducing new bills, it becomes more difficult as the session progresses. After Jan. 27, any new bills must be introduced by the House or Senate Delayed Bills Committees. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Justin Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday after nearly 10 years as Canadas prime minister. Here are five charts that explain his downfall: Mr Trudeaus political honeymoon lasted until March 2018, when he faced several controversies, including allegations which he denied that he groped a reporter in 2000. The following year, pictures emerged of him wearing blackface to a party despite positioning himself as a champion of social justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2021, his decision to call a snap election during the Covid pandemic backfired. His liberal reputation was undermined when he used emergency powers to crush a strike by truckers in 2022, and his popularity worsened as the Canadian economy faltered. When Mr Trudeau became prime minister, Canadian unemployment stood at 7.1 per cent, but by mid-2019 it had fallen to 5.6 per cent. Unemployment soared during the Covid pandemic, hitting 13 per cent. Although it recovered, the number of jobs created failed to keep up with population growth. The average house price in Canada when Mr Trudeau took over as prime minister in November 2015 was $446,000 Canadian. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nine years later, the average cost of a house soared to $732,000 Canadian after peaking at $834,000 in March 2022. Prices rose for reasons including supply failing to keep up with the growing population, partly attributed to immigration. Cheap credit, speculative investment and tax incentives to encourage homeownership have also pushed the cost of housing up. According to the latest polling, the Conservatives, led by Pierre Poilievre are on course for a landslide with 227 seats at the next election. As things stand Mr Trudeaus Liberals are projected to win just 44 seats, three ahead of the Bloc Quebecois. Canadian voters had little faith in Mr Trudeaus ability to handle Donald Trump who, since his election, has been taunting the Canadian prime minister by suggesting the country could become Americas 51st state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Poilievre has the confidence of 44 per cent of voters when it comes to taking on Mr Trump, compared with Mr Trudeaus 14 per cent. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. STAR-ADVERTISER Kapiolani nurses locked out after arriving for their 7am shift start a day after a one day work stoppage. Rosalee Agas-Yuu. President of Hawaii Nurses Assn. getting notice of lockout from hospital representatives. STAR-ADVERTISER Kapiolani nurses locked out after arriving for their 7am shift start a day after a one day work stoppage. Rosalee Agas-Yuu. President of Hawaii Nurses Assn. getting notice of lockout from hospital representatives. The Hawaii Nurses Association has notified Wilcox Medical Center on Kauai that the 159 registered nurses represented by the union will begin a three-day limited-duration strike next week to protest unfair labor practices and to underscore the fight for safer nurse-to-patient ratios. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HNA issued the notice Saturday for the strike, which will begin at 7 a.m. Jan. 14 and end at 6 :59 a.m. Jan. 17. Wilcox, which is the largest medical center on Kauai and is part of Hawai i Pacific Health, has said it will remain open during the strike, and it has secured a temporary workforce of experienced nurses. The nurses strike at Wilcox comes after eight months and 22 negotiating sessions, including recent sessions with a federal mediator. It also follows an upcoming strike of 1, 900 HNA nurses of The Queens Medical Center that is slated to begin at 11 a.m. Jan. 13 and continue through Jan. 16 at 6 :59 a.m. Over the New Years holiday, union nurses at both Queens on Oahu and Wilcox Medical Center on Kauai voted to authorize strikes protesting unfair labor practices. Jen Chahanovich, Wilcox president and CEO, said in a statement, We are extremely disappointed by HNAs decision to strike as we are so close to reaching an agreement. Our responsibility is to take care of our community and the people of Kauai who depend on us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HNA said Saturday that the union has filed unfair labor practice complaints against Wilcox with the National Labor Relations Board for unlawfully interfering with the rights of employees who request union representation and for engaging in illegal discrimination and taking adverse actions against bargaining unit employees in retaliation for their participation in contract negotiations. Don 't miss out on what 's happening ! Stay in touch with top news, as it happens, conveniently in your email inbox. It 's FREE ! Email 28141 Sign Up By clicking to sign up, you agree to Star-Advertiser 's and Google 's and. This form is protected by reCAPTCHA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HNA President Rosalee Agas-Yuu said in a statement, The nurses at Wilcox have been fighting for safer nurse-to-patient staffing to deliver excellent care for the people of Kauai. They should not be subject to retaliation because of their advocacy. Access to quality care is already very challenging on the neighbor islands. Last fall some 600 HNA nurses at Kapi olani Medical Center for Women & Children were locked out by management for 18 days after a one-day strike, which followed an earlier weeklong walkout in January. The lockout continued until Oct. 2 when a new three-year contract was reached that HNA said included the first contractually enforceable nurse-to-patient ratios in Hawaii history. Chahanovich said Wilcox management and HNA are scheduled to bargain Thursday and Friday. However, she said Wilcox has notified HNA that it is willing to meet earlier. For months, we have expressed to HNA that we are willing to negotiate in person as often as possible, for as long as it takes, she said. We have based many of our proposals on the contract HNA accepted at Kapi olani Medical Center for Women & Children, with some adjustments for the unique needs of Kauai. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wilcox management has said that it has presented an offer that would raise nurses base salaries to $138, 000 to $161, 000 for a three-day workweek by the end of the contract. It also includes a flexible staffing matrix that is based on national standards and is similar to what HNA nurses at Kapi olani Medical Center for Women & Children approved in their most recent contract. We care for our nurses, and our offer reflects what they have asked for as well as what we believe is necessary to care for our neighbor island community, Chahanovich said. HNAs Wilcox nurses, however, say more work, especially on safe-staffing ratios, is needed to reach agreement. Jessi Dettle, a Wilcox nurse, said in a statement : HPH continues to disrespect its nurses by forcing us to work in unsafe staffing conditions. Ultimately, the people who suffer the most are our patients. This decision to strike is not being taken lightly. We have to make the difficult choice to stand up to the bullies in HPH administration for what is right for our communities and our families, Dettle said. Our island is changing and growing, and the current practices at Wilcox do not address the older and sicker population coming through our ER, OR and into the inpatient units.Honolulu Star-Advertiser reporter Nina Wu contributed to this story. CHICAGO, Ill. (WTVO) Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Public Health announced the award of $118,000 to the Winnebago County Health Department (WCHD) to create a health equity zone to address outcomes related to mental health. The WCHD will use the funding to expand its Community of Concern workgroup to address health disparities around mental and behavioral health impacting a vulnerable community area in Rockford, according to a press release. The workgroup will partner with other community groups to improve mental health through prevention and early intervention, including improving access to self-care, decreasing stigma associated with mental health conditions, and building community resilience, the government said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are excited for the opportunity to address mental and behavioral health through a public health lens and improve health equity in our community, said WCHD Administrator Sandra Martell. The funding comes from the Healthy Illinois 2028 plan, which hopes to improve equitable access to care and health outcomes for all Illinois residents. According to the state, officials identified five major priorities to be addressed over the next five years, including racism as a public health crisis, chronic disease, COVID-19 and emerging diseases, maternal and infant health, and mental health and substance use disorder. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Winter Storm Blair, the massive snowstorm that has been dumping snow throughout the U.S. in recent days, is not leaving Americas airports unaffected. After it made its way through the Midwest this weekend, eastern hubs are now dealing with lots of delays and cancellations due to blizzard-like conditions. On Monday, a major disruptive winter storm will affect the area from the Ohio Valley to the Mid-Atlantic, leading to severe travel delays, the National Weather Service has warned. The storm will produce moderate to heavy snow from parts of the Ohio Valley through to the Mid-Atlantic. The snow will continue into late Monday night over the Mid-Atlantic. Additionally, the NWS said that travelers should anticipate significant disruptions. Washington, D.C. The flight-tracking website Flightaware says that Washington, D.C.s Reagan National Airport is getting it worst at the moment, with 239 flights cancelled as of Monday morning, or 60% of its scheduled departures. Dulles International Airport is also being heavily affected, with 92 flights cancelled, or 24% of its scheduled departures. The National Weather Service reports that many parts of the nations capital have received between 4 to 6 inches so far. Baltimore, Maryland Flightaware says that Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport has had 109 flights cancelled, or 38% of its scheduled departures. The National Weather Service reports that many parts of the city and its suburbs have received between 2 to 3 inches of snow far. Louisville, Kentucky Flightaware says that Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in Kentucky has had 35 flights cancelled Monday, or 24% of its scheduled departures. The National Weather Service has forecasted that many parts of the city and have received more than 6 inches of snow so far. Midwest remnants Flightaware says that St. Louis Lambert International Airport in Missouri has had 93 flights cancelled Monday, or 42% of its scheduled departures. The National Weather Service has forecasted that many parts of the city and have received more than 8 inches of snow in the last 24 hours. Flightaware says that Kansas City International Airport in Missouri is has had 51 flights cancelled Monday, or 35% of its scheduled departures. The National Weather Service has forecasted that many parts of the city have received more than a foot of snow in the last 24 hours. Flightaware says that Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport in Kentucky has had 51 flights cancelled Monday, or 34% of its scheduled departures. The National Weather Service has forecasted that many parts of the city have received more than 6 inches of snow in the last 24 hours. Airline travel advisories The largest carriers in the country, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, American Airlines and Southwest Airlines, have issued travel advisories for dozens of additional airports throughout the midwest and east coast. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The Kentucky Capitol Monday morning. (Kentucky Lantern photo by Tom Loftus) Tens of thousands of Kentuckians are without power Monday morning as a winter storm continues to hammer much of the state with snow, ice and an incoming blast of arctic temperatures. If you need help because of the cold and ice, text or call the national disaster distress hotline at 1-800-985-5990 or call your local emergency management office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Click here for addresses and a map of shelters and warming centers in Kentucky. Approximately 83,000 Kentuckians across more than three dozen counties were without power Monday morning, according to PowerOutage.us, a website that gathers power outage data reported by utilities. A deluge of snowfall and ice from freezing rain has downed power lines and trees, disrupted transformers and interrupted electrical service, as well as rendering many roads impassable. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear had declared a state of emergency ahead of whats been dubbed Winter Storm Blair. Beshear warned the storm could cause widespread power outages, create treacherous travel conditions and make temperatures dangerously cold. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kentuckys largest cities of Louisville and Lexington have broken snowfall records for Jan. 5 after receiving 7.7 inches of snow and 5.5 inches of snow, respectively, according to the National Weather Service Office in Louisville. Some parts of Western Kentucky have received at least a half an inch of ice accumulation. The Louisville office also stated air temperatures are expected to drop into the single digits or below zero Wednesday night and Thursday morning in some parts of north central Kentucky. The National Weather Service office in Paducah stated the threat of power outages remains through Monday with wind gusts up to 30 mph hitting ice cover on trees. Beshear in a Monday morning press conference regarding the weather urged those who dont have power by Monday night to create a plan to find a local warming center given the bitterly cold temperatures. He said he believed utilities could make significant progress through Monday on restoring power, though some utilities have told him power is expected to be without power for a few days in some places. If you dont have power restored by tonight, you need to be thinking about the plans that you may need to make to be safe. County officials are working really hard to make sure there are those warming centers open, Beshear said. Stay home. Stay safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the press conference, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray urged Kentuckians who must navigate roads to have a car kit available for emergencies and to not touch downed power lines. Beshear said Kentuckians who need help during the storm and cold temperatures should text or call the national disaster distress hotline at 1-800-985-5990 or call their local emergency management office. With Winter Storm Blair packing an icy punch and plenty of snow, road, power and emergency management crews were prepared to brave the elements in Northeast Kentucky on Sunday. Ashland-Boyd County Emergency Management Director Tim England and Boyd County Judge-Executive Eric Chaney released a video on Saturday night on social media. England said moderate to heavy snowfall would transition to ice or sleet by 10 p.m. or so on Sunday night, creating rough travel conditions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Temperatures will be low, and it is going to be really dangerous, England said. Please stay up on updates we put out and National Weather Service puts out. Were prepared, Chaney added, saying the county is splitting road crews to ensure around-the-clock work. Just know were out working, Chaney said. England said he spoke with Ashland and Catlettsburg officials. Everyone was prepared for the forecast. Greenup County Judge-Executive Bobby Hall said road crews met on Saturday afternoon and put together a plan. State salt truck and plow crews hit the road throughout Northeast Kentucky Sunday. They will be on 12-hour shifts to patrol, treat roads with salt and plow snow to keep roadways passable, according to a news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The National Weather Service indicated the storms intensity will make for hazardous to treacherous driving conditions on Sunday through Monday and it could extend beyond Monday given the low temperatures in the forecast. This winter storm is serious, and the extreme cold were facing days afterward will make travel more hazardous and impact the speed of even our best road treatments, especially after dark, said Jim Gray, Transportation Cabinet Secretary. Visit snowky.ky.gov for snow and ice resources, tips and updates. Kentucky Power said it was closely monitoring the wintry weather. It said the primary risk to electrical utilities is ice accumulation of a quarter-inch to a half-inch, with some areas potentially receiving up to three-quarters of an inch of ice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A half-inch of ice is typically problematic for power lines, Kentucky Power said. Kentucky Power has nearly 1,000 personnel on hand ready to respond to power outages. The company said it is taking the storm very seriously and approaching it with all hands on deck. Visit kentuckypower.com or the Kentucky Power app for updates and information. Kentucky Power issued the following safety tips: Individuals using oxygen-dependent medical devices or refrigerated medications should have a backup plan for outages. Check on the elderly and those with children or medical conditions to ensure they have safety plans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Keep devices like phones, laptops, and portable chargers fully charged. Prepare an emergency kit for cold weather, including water, blankets, non-perishable food, a flashlight, a battery-powered radio, first-aid supplies, and necessary medications. More details are available on our website. If using a generator, follow the manufacturers instructions, never operate it indoors, and connect appliances directly to the generator unless an electric load transfer switch is installed. Kentuckys transportation cabinet suggested these items for drivers: First aid kit Extra coat, gloves, and blankets or sleeping bag Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Non-perishable food and water Baby formula, diapers, wipes Flashlight with extra batteries Portable phone chargers Pet food, water, leash, bowl Medications Ice scraper and jumper cables Shovel, and a bag of sand or litter This weeks weather gets a lot more interesting. Monday and Tuesday will be a quiet, but cooler days across New Mexico with some light snow chances moving across northern areas late Monday into Tuesday morning. A winter storm will begin moving in by Tuesday afternoon, moving from north to south across the state. A gusty east canyon wind will develop in the Albuquerque Metro Tuesday evening as well. Temperatures get even colder on Wednesday as snow levels drop to valley floors, with almost all of New Mexico seeing high temperatures in the 30s. Light snow is also expected to fall all the way down into southern New Mexico and the Mexican border Wednesday morning. Snowfall totals from this first round will be light to moderate, with the heaviest totals in the northern mountains and east-central New Mexico where 1 to 4 will be possible. Uncertainty lies with this storm system Wednesday evening through Friday morning. Right now, it looks like more snow is likely across the southern half of the state, especially on Thursday, where a dusting to a couple inches of snow will be likely south of I-40. Travel impacts dont look to be widespread, but a few icy spots will be possible across New Mexico, with the slickest travel across the higher elevations. This storm will move out by Friday night, but cooler temperatures stick around. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. Feb. 8 began sunny and unseasonably warm, with Milwaukee setting a record-high temperature for that date of 56 degrees. But that afternoon, storm clouds rolled in, setting the state up for a bizarre bout of severe weather. In the evening, the first-ever February tornadoes in recorded state history ripped across south-central Wisconsin, causing damage upwards of $2.4 million. One tornado touched down in rural Green County. The other struck Evansville, in Rock County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It isnt fully understood how climate change is affecting tornadoes, state climatologist Steve Vavrus said. But one expected outcome is a longer tornado season. They form when warm, humid air combines with wind shear a change in wind speed or direction over a short distance. Warmer winter temperatures in Wisconsin mean those conditions could occur outside of the typical tornado season, May through August. Evansville Mayor Dianne Duggan said there was a lot of talk and head-shaking about the timing of the tornado, which she said is a climate change issue. I guess we just need to be on our toes all the time now, she said. In total, Wisconsin experienced 45 tornadoes in 2024, the third-highest annual amount in state history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was one of 2024's unprecedented series of extreme weather events, and historic highs and lows in Wisconsin. In some way, every season was record-breaking. These extremes are expected to get more frequent and dramatic because of climate change. And although some may like to think of Wisconsin as a "climate haven," the effects are already being seen here, and last year offered just the latest evidence. Wisconsins climate is becoming warmer and wetter. Across the state, temperatures have warmed about three degrees and rainfall has increased about five inches, or 17%, since 1950, according to the Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts most recent report. The impacts aren't just on the environment. They're economic, too. According to a recent analysis by the Center for Public Integrity, extreme weather events will cost Wisconsin up to $16 billion over the next 15 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The science is clear that climate change is driven by human activity, largely the use of fossil fuels, like coal, oil and gas. These fuels are responsible for 75% of greenhouse gas emissions, which capture heat and warm the planet. Vavrus said, looking at historical data, it's particularly striking how much warmer the state has become a trend people may overlook because of year-to-year variability. Based on available data through the end of November, Vavrus said, last year could be Wisconsin's warmest yet on record. "It's like we're gradually warming up the stove, and we don't really notice it's happening," he said. More: Wisconsin's 2024 climate review: A year of unprecedented weather, and record highs and lows Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Wisconsin has seen far more tornadoes than average this year. Is climate change to blame? This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin had its first February tornadoes in 2024 Thousands of former President Donald Trumps supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol building following a Stop the Steal rally on Jan. 6, 2021 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images) As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to pardon the Jan. 6 rioters imprisoned for their role in the violent attack on the U.S. Capitol in 2021, one of the candidates running for a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court joined the campaign to rewrite the history of what happened that day, glossing over the offenses of the Jan. 6 defendants. Speaking with right-wing radio host Vicki McKenna on her iHeart Radio podcast on Thursday, former Wisconsin Attorney General Brad Schimel, who is running in the April election for a seat on the states highest court, complained that the Jan. 6 defendants never got a fair shot in court and accused Democrats of abusing the court system for political gain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McKenna and Schimel agreed that Democrats are guilty of lawfare political warfare via the courts. But it was Schimel who specifically brought up Jan. 6. Another piece of the lawfare manipulation is that they utilize jurisdictions that are overwhelmingly to the left in terms of the voters which means the jurors that youre going to draw to hear these cases, Schimel said. In Trumps New York hush money trial, for example, he said, there was no way any jury was going to rule anything other than hes guilty of whatever you can give him, whatever charge you give them. The same thing for these January 6th defendants who were all prosecuted in the Washington, D.C., district, which is overwhelmingly liberal, Shimel continued. This part of the manipulation is to go to districts like that. They would never take you, they would never take their prosecution in a district where you had a fair shot as a defendant. Republicans across the country have hopped on the bandwagon to flip the script on Jan. 6, as The New York Times reports in a long article detailing how Trump and his supporters laundered the history of Jan. 6, turning a political nightmare into a political asset. Two weeks from now, the piece points out, Trump will take the oath of office on the very spot where his followers stormed the Capitol, kicked and stomped a police officer, beat another officer with an American flag pole and broke into the building vowing to attack and kill the officials who were there to certify the election Trump lost. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After a brief period during which Republican lawmakers who hid under their desks during the attack emerged to denounce the desecration of the Capitol and the Big Lie about a stolen election, Trump made his comeback, campaigning on the idea that Jan. 6 rioters were martyrs, and former Republican critics began to change their tune. Still, Schimels comments stand out. For a Supreme Court candidate to suggest that jury trials dont work and that the whole U.S. system of justice is so politicized it cant be trusted is deeply undermining of the very institution Schimel proposes to join. During the McKenna show, both McKenna and Schimel engaged in some familiar partisan liberal-bashing, casting aspersions on Dane County and suggesting that the Wisconsin Supreme Courts decisions allowing absentee ballot drop boxes to be used again and declaring the Republicans egregiously gerrymandered voting maps unconstitutional were merely political, not serious constitutional decisions. Both implied that courts dominated by conservative justices are fair and impartial and that only Democrats and liberals politicize the process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats pretty rich coming from Schimel who, as former Republican Gov. Scott Walkers attorney general, was involved in a Christian conservative coalitions plan to end federally protected abortion rights. Schimel made government transparency a major talking point in his campaign to be the states top lawyer, but then tried to hide records of his trip to a conference hosted by the controversial Alliance Defending Freedom, which the Southern Poverty Law Center has labeled an anti-gay hate group. Schimel was there with his colleague at the state Department of Justice, attorney Micah Tseytlin, who, according to The New York Times, presented his legal strategy to end Roe. He proposed his idea for an abortion ban that set a limit earlier than 20 weeks to undercut Roe more openly. Schimel told McKenna that, unlike liberal justices on the court, Im going to follow the law and the Constitution. Thats something were missing right now. He criticized the Courts liberal majority not just for their decisions but also for the cases they havent decided yet on the anti-union Act 10 law and on whether abortion is legal in Wisconsin. They dont want this issue to be resolved. They want to keep dragging it out. And thats, that is playing political games with these cases, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its pretty obvious from Schimels political background that he is hardly the impartial, nonpartisan figure he claims to be. His insistence that the Jan. 6 defendants couldnt get fair treatment in a Washington, D.C., courtroom is a big clue. In our increasingly toxic political atmosphere, its easy to forget that there are other kinds of judges, who listen to the evidence and make clear-eyed decisions based on the law, not partisanship. Take the Washington-based federal judge who heard the case of Philip Sean Grillo, who bragged about storming the Capitol on Jan. 6. Judge Royce C. Lamberth, the Times reported, rejected Grillos request for a delay of sentencing on the grounds that he was about to be pardoned by Trump. Lamberth filed a court document reminding everyone of the gravity and the violence of the Capitol attack. He and his colleagues on the D.C. Circuit had presided over hundreds of trials, heard from witnesses, read hundreds of documents and watched thousands of hours of disturbing video footage. They told the world that the election was stolen, a claim for which no evidence ever emerged, Lamberth wrote of the Jan. 6 insurrectionists. They told the world that they were there to put a stop to the transfer of power, even if that meant ransacking, emptying, and desecrating our countrys most hallowed sites. Most disturbingly, they told the world that particular elected officials who were present at the Capitol that day had to be removed, hurt, or even killed. Lamberths sober judgment, and his biography, undermine Schimels claims about D.C. courts stacked with liberals who made a partisan target of the Jan. 6 defendants. Lamberth was appointed to the court in 1987 by President Ronald Reagan. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX MADISON, Wis. (AP) Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers' plan to let voters repeal and create state laws without legislative involvement met opposition on Monday from Republican leaders of the Legislature, who signaled that the idea is likely to be rejected for a second time. Evers' plan comes the same day the Legislature kicked off its two-year session. Republicans remain in control, but their majority is at its narrowest since they took over in 2011. That means the dynamic between the Legislature and Evers, entering his seventh year as governor, will largely remain as it has been. Republicans must approve anything Evers wants to get done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, the Democratic Evers is reviving a plan previously rejected by Republicans giving voters the power to enact laws without approval of the Legislature. Evers said on Friday that the state budget he plans to unveil next month will include a mandate that legislators take up a constitutional amendment allowing voters to petition for ballot proposals to repeal state statutes and create new ones. Evers made a similar proposal in 2022 for voters to repeal the states 1849 abortion ban, but Republicans killed the plan. Republican Assembly Speaker Robin Vos rejected the idea. It appears that Tony Evers' single agenda item for the next session to is take power away from the elected members of the Legislature, Vos told The Associated Press. If that's his focus, it's going to make it awfully hard to find consensus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republican Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu said in a statement that Evers should focus on cutting taxes and scaling back the size of government. Republicans hold a 54-45 advantage in the Assembly and an 18-15 majority in the Senate in the two-year session that started Monday. There are six new state senators, all Democrats. Nearly a third of the Assembly 31 lawmakers are newly elected. Of them, 23 are Democrats. Those new lawmakers make up the majority of the 45-member Democratic caucus. Lawmakers have said they are hopeful the slimmer GOP majorities will lead to more compromise, but on this issue they don't appear to be willing to go along with what Evers wants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wisconsin is one of 24 states that do not provide a way for people to reject or enact statutes outside of the legislative process, according to Ballotpedia. Evers said Republicans have been ignoring the will of the people by refusing to legalize marijuana, repeal the abortion ban, implement gun control measures and increase funding for public schools. Instead, he said, the GOP has been enacting policy through constitutional amendments, denying voters a voice. Republican lawmakers are going to continue to try to legislate by constitutional amendment, Evers said. Then they should give Wisconsinites the same opportunity that 26 other states have. Constitutional amendments must pass two consecutive legislative sessions and a statewide referendum to take effect. The governor plays no role in the process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans have asked voters to approve seven amendments since 2010, according to data from the University of Wisconsin Law Schools State Democracy Research Initiative. Voters ratified three in 2024 alone, including two in April to restrict use of private money in election administration and one in November that prohibits foreign nationals from voting. Republicans plan to give final passage this month to another amendment that would put the state's voter ID requirement in the constitution, rather than just state law. The Senate is expected to pass it this week, followed by the Assembly next week, which would then put the question on the April election ballot. Gun control advocates gathered in the Capitol on Monday shortly before the session kicked off to press lawmakers to take action following a shooting by a 15-year-old student on Dec. 16 at a Madison private school that left a teacher and student dead and two other students severely injured. The shooter killed herself. Evers called a special session in 2019 in an attempt to pass gun control measures, including requiring universal background checks, but Republicans took no action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Evers also called a special legislative session in September 2022 to approve a constitutional amendment similar to his latest proposal. He promoted it as a way to repeal the abortion ban and ensure abortion remained legal in Wisconsin after the U.S. Supreme Court reversed its landmark Roe v. Wade decision. Republicans convened and ending the special session in less than 30 seconds. Wisconsin's population is estimated to shrink at a growing rate over the upcoming decades, according to a projection from the Wisconsin Department of Administration. According to the report, most Wisconsin counties will face a declining population by 2050. In total, it's a projected loss of nearly 200,000 people in the next three decades. Researchers say projected population decreases across most Wisconsin counties are associated with decreasing fertility rates or an increasing aging population, or a combination of both factors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state Department of Administration developed the population projections based on the U.S. Census Bureau's 2020 counts. Here's a breakdown of the report: Milwaukee County's population is projected to decline, says DOA The sun sets on the Milwaukee skyline and Marquette University in Milwaukee on Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022. - Mike De Sisti / The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Milwaukee County's population is projected to decline by more than 9% by 2050, according to the DOA report. An estimated 916,000 people lived in Milwaukee County in 2023, which is already 125,000 fewer people than 50 years ago. The city lost more than a fifth of its residents during that time period. The DOA projections also come at a time when Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson has a plan, known as Growing MKE, to encourage population growth to 1 million Milwaukeeans. The plan mainly focuses on updates to housing and proposed changes to zoning to increase density. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED: Part of Milwaukee booms as another shrinks. Can enough neighborhoods turn around to grow the population? Wisconsin counties with fastest decline in population: Here's a look at the Wisconsin counties with the fastest estimated decline in population by 2050, according to DOA projections: Florence County: -31% estimated population decline Adams County: -29.1% estimated population decline Richland County: -28.7% estimated population decline Rusk County: -27.7% estimated population decline Forest County: -26.1% estimated population decline Crawford County: -25.9% estimated population decline Price County: -24.9% estimated population decline Shawano County: -24.6% estimated population decline Langlade County: -24.5% estimated population decline Polk County: -22.1% estimated population decline Where is Florence County, Wisconsin? Florence County, Wisconsin, is located in on the far northeast part of the state. According to the report, it is estimated to face over a 31% decline in its population by the 2050s. Wisconsin counties with fastest population growth in population: Here's a look at the Wisconsin counties with the fastest estimated growth in population by 2050, according to the DOA: Dane County: 38.8% estimated population increase Trempealeau County: 33.9% estimated population increase Eau Claire: 12.2% estimated population increase Brown County: 11.5% estimated population increase St. Croix: 10.1% estimated population increase Clark County: 8.7% estimated population increase Jackson County: 7% estimated population increase Outagamie County: 6.2% estimated population increase Vernon County: 2.6% estimated population increase Calumet County: 1.1% estimated population increase RELATED: Are you in the middle class in Wisconsin? Here's how much money you'd have to make This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin population expected to shrink by 200k by 2050, says DOA At the height of wokeness (or social justice if you like), writers like Helen Lewis and John McWhorter speculated that it might be our new religion, supplanting Christianity at a time when society was becoming increasingly secular. In a conversation about his book Woke Racism: How a New Religion Betrayed Black America, McWhorter described the religion of wokeness like this: Its an idea that there is an article of faith That is what is important in this religion, that you acknowledge that you understand that to show that youre a good person. Its policed in a way that really is reminiscent of the chasing away of heretics. If you dont agree with them, they think its okay to see that you lose your job Were dealing with a religion, and we have to know what were dealing with. Thats the point of the comparison. For McWhorter, what stood out was the level of importance people placed on these beliefs. It was an act of faith to believe in the woke definition of being a good person so deeply youd be willing to drive a member of your community out. But more specific examplesones that transcended descriptions of cancel culture and the sadly familiar woke scapegoatingwere also plentiful and compelling. For example, George Floyd, the black man whose death ignited nationwide unrest in the summer of 2020, seemed to have been sanctified, with murals of his face prominently placed in almost every major American city. Politicians and celebrities regularly, and quite publicly, engaged in what seemed like ritual acts: Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer wearing Ghanaian kente cloths, people posting black squares on Instagram, or Gal Gadot enlisting her closest celebrity friends to sing John Lennons Imagine. Corporate America, accelerating beyond the stale diversity trainings and sexual harassment workshops that characterized 90s and 00s political correctness, rushed headlong into the era of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Ordinary people confessed their privilege and internalized biases compulsively. Some still ended up canceled, while others fearfully retreated into self-imposed exile before the mob could cancel them first. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was a strange (and possibly ongoing) cultural moment. Yet describing this phenomenon as a religion never felt entirely accurate. There was no divine or supernatural element, for one. McWhorter might argue that not all religions need one, but it seems like a glaring blindspot. What, then, is the difference between a religion and any other belief system? While figures like George Floyd, Trayvon Martin, Breonna Taylor, andmore recently, though to a much lesser extentJordan Neely took on a kind of mythic, folk-hero-like stature, they lacked truly religious character. People were not worshipful in the face of their stories, even if their fervor had a taste of the Pentecostal to it. In the end, George Floyd was a regular personat most a martyrwho could just as easily have been you, me, or a neighbor, something you would never say of the pope, a saint, or Jesus Christ. There was no church and, as anyone who has been canceled could attest, no promise of redemption or transcendence. But still, wokeness was touching on something deeply emotional. It was unfamiliar, at times frightening. It wasnt just politics. There was, even if inarticulable, something undeniably new about it. In a 2023 article published in The Atlantic, Tyler Austin Harper proposed that wokeness is not a religion so much as a New Age-inspired self-help grammar. Harper argued that the culture of doing the workoften expressed in corporate DEI initiativesreflected a broader American obsession with ongoing personal improvement. He situated wokeness within a culture that prizes a never-ending process of individualistic, corporatized anti-racism, one focused on the purification of white psyches through discomfort, guilt, and doing the work as a road to self-improvement. The connection he drew was more than just conceptual. Racial sensitivity training, Harper pointed out, has historical roots in the Human Potential Movements encounter groups. Many specific and distinct features of wokeness were born of New Age thought. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But while mostly persuasive, Harpers explanation also feels like its missing something. There are many important differences between wokeness and any manner of New Age thinking. In fact, what annoys many woke people about New Age philosophy is how deeply libertarian it is. It is lift yourself up by the bootstraps by another name, often with the addition of vague ideas like energy or bastardized interpretations of qi or chakras. If one were to write a single definition of the New Age ecosystem of thoughtif such a summary is possibleit might be this: a loosely connected set of syncretic spiritual beliefs and practices that prioritize personal growth, sidestepping or outright ignoring the political. A New Age conference may offer a land acknowledgment at its start or ask for your desired pronouns, but the internal logic is decidedly unwoke, even anti-woke. Wokeness, by contrast, insists that no amount of self-improvement can produce true justice. It demands self-improvement, but not only self-improvement. It wants sacrifice and looks for it hungrily. To cast wokeness as self-help might pick up on particular techniquesthe sensitivity trainings or the self-examinationsbut it downplays how wokeness often feels more like a reaction to New Age belief systems than an extension of them. Wokeness does not believe that reality is what you can get away with, to echo the iconoclastic writer and generalized agnostic Robert Anton Wilson. It stands athwart the idea that anyone can succeed with the right mindset, an axiom that lies at the heart of New Age belief systems. Manifestation is downright insulting in the face of something as overbearing and insidious as white supremacy. You cant just wishcast your way out of oppressionpeople must be removed, systems must be overturned, laws must be changed. Altering ones languageLatino to Latinx, she to they, master bedroom to primary bedroomis not a spell that grants us more equality in the woke mindset. It doesnt make vulnerable populations less oppressed in the woke cosmology. It is simply the least one can do, a gatekeeping measure more than a religious exercise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In fact, I would argue wokeness stands in stark contrast to what we might consider the narrating cosmology of the U.S. If theres a faith that undergirds much of our culture, its the belief that our thoughts and wills can reshape our circumstances. We are a culture that believes we can lift ourselves up by our bootstraps in our heart of hearts. Even though the last 30-odd years have been overwrought with narratives of victimhood, this belief in being self-made, a conviction that personal effort and willpower can triumph over any and all adversity, rages on. We see it in both benign, secular expressions (believe in yourself), and as well more emergent, mystical ones, which encourage tapping into universal energy, or vibes to reshape ones reality. On the most esoteric side of the spectrum, there has been yearslong, widespread interest in reality shifting among young people on social media, a practice rooted in the idea that one can move their consciousness into alternate realities. In reality shifting, young people share techniques they believe can quite literally transport their consciousness to alternate timelines that align with their desires, whatever those desires may be. This, now somewhat famously, includes, but is not limited to, being a character in Bridgerton or Harry Potter. Manifestation and prosperity gospel, two sides of the same coin, are instructive here as well, both built on the premise that focused intentionone urging you to ask the universe, the other to pray to Godcan directly influence life in the physical world. We are a country that believes that you can quite literally will your way into anything from beauty to prosperity to marriage, implying that sheer mental resolve can help you achieve any goal. In many ways, that is the American Dream. But the American Dream is fundamentally at odds with wokeness. Wokeness is preoccupied with systemic injustices, victims and oppressors. Changing your language and thus your mindset is only one part of wokenesss proposed fix. The bigger-picture goal of wokeness is to simply change who is in power, from the so-called white supremacists to the marginalized groups. While there are many variations on the specifics of wokenesssome versions embrace capitalism, others lean more Marxistit ultimately boils down to: The more marginalized people are in positions of power, the closer we will be to the goal of equality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From one angle, then, wokeness can act as both a kind of filtering mechanism and a coping mechanism to the lift yourself up by the bootstraps mindset. It tells you why the American Dream isnt working for you, specifically: Its not that you didnt work hard enough, its that youre being stopped. Youre being oppressed. Its the material thats getting in the way. Wokeness explains what forces are preventing you from self-actualization. You may not become the God of your own world, because we do not live in a universe that supports a system where everyone who wants to can be a winner. Wokeness is the great regulator that emerges near the breaking point of any system: academic departments facing resource shortages, media markets oversaturated with voices, or a worldview that assumes everyone can succeed with the right mindset. It says the system is rigged. It emerges directly as a critique of the American Dream to those who feel its not working and are not appealed to by other explanationsto name just one, regulations that impede the growth of new industries. Or put another way: When our shared religion says Yes, wokeness retorts with an unbelieving No. Read more at The Dispatch The Dispatch is a new digital media company providing engaged citizens with fact-based reporting and commentary, informed by conservative principles. Sign up for free. A man has been arrested in connection with the kidnapping of a 75-year-old woman in Pearce, Arizona on Friday, Jan 3. According to a press release from Cochise County Sheriff's Office, the woman called authorities at around 8:10 p.m. to report that she had been kidnapped at gunpoint that afternoon from her home by a man wearing a mask and dark clothing. The man who had entered her home at the rear at approximately 3 p.m. then blindfolded her and forced her into his car. The victim subsequently heard several loud noises but was unaware of what was happening, police say. Cochise County Sheriff's Office - Mark J. Dannels Sheriff The location of where the kidnapping occurred The location of where the kidnapping occurred Per the release, she was later moved into the back seat of her own vehicle, a 2007 silver Chevy Avalanche, and driven away from her home. When the kidnapper stopped at a Dollar General, the woman was able to get out of her restraints and run to a residence for help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When authorities arrived, the woman advised deputies that her boyfriend should still be at their home and requested that they contact him to let him know she was going to be transported to a local hospital for treatment of minor wounds sustained during the incident. However, the release states that when they traveled to the victim's home, police discovered a 67-year-old male deceased. Related: 'Reign of Violent Terror': Woman Escapes After Allegedly Being Kidnapped, Tortured for Months Police identified 37-year-old Rynn Prairie-Rocca as a person of interest in the incident, noting that he may have a large dog with him and urged anyone with information to come forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police later reported a "barricaded subject" before confirming that Prairie-Rocca had been taken into custody and transported to Cochise County Jail. Prairie-Rocca barricaded himself for about 90 minutes before the police were able to coax him out, Law & Crime reported. Related: Teen Escapes from School Bus Driver 12 Years After He Allegedly Kidnapped Her and Changed Her Name 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. Per Fox 10, no motive has been shared and the victims are yet to be identified. Per Law & Crime, police have not shared if Prairie-Rocca has any connection to them. Police also did not reveal how the 67-year-old man died. The incident remains under investigation and Cochise County Sheriff's Office did not immediately respond when PEOPLE requested an update. Read the original article on People WEST PALM BEACH A 91-year-old woman was struck in the left ear by a stray bullet as she stood behind a window at her house near Gaines Park on Saturday afternoon, city police said Sunday. West Palm Beach police said the woman was cleaning chicken for dinner at her home in the 1300 block of North Mangonia Drive at about 1:30 p.m. Saturday when her kitchen window was pierced by a bullet that grazed her left ear, injuring her. She was taken to St. Marys Medical Center, where she was treated and released after receiving several stitches. Police, who were alerted to the shooting by ShotSpotter software, said the gunfire came from about 160 yards away, at the entrance to Gaines Park. Investigators recovered 22 shell casings, police spokesperson Michael Jachles said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was quite a dangerous situation, he said. This is probably some lowlife who has no regard for human life. They need to be off the streets. Jachles said investigators are examining a possible connection between the shooting and gunfire that erupted shortly before that at 18th Street and Tamarind Avenue. No property damage was discovered there, he said, but police think the shootings were targeted. This wasnt celebratory gunfire. This was a beef of some kind, Jachles said. And the 91-year-old woman was an innocent victim. Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call (561) 822-1900 or report a tip to Palm Beach County Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS (8477). Residents can also download the SaferWatch app and submit information that way, Jachles said. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Florida woman, 91, injured as random bullet pierces window of her home A woman was arrested Sunday after deputies responding to a disturbance call found an 11-year-old boy dead at a rural Northern California RV park. The Sutter County Sheriffs Office said deputies were called about 10 a.m. Sunday for a disturbance call at the Loveys Landing RV Park north of Meridian, an outpost on the Sacramento River four miles southwest of Colusa and 17 miles west of Yuba City. On scene, deputies found Meagan Ann Dixon, 44, under the influence of narcotics, causing a disturbance. Deputies then found the 11-year-old boy deceased in a mobile travel trailer, the Sheriffs Office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dixon was subsequently arrested on suspicion of homicide and child endangerment, though deputies did not disclose how Dixon and the boy were related. Dixon was being housed in Sutter County Jail, the Sheriffs Office said. Deputies said Sutter detectives along with officials from the Sutter County District Attorneys Office and the state Attorney Generals Office are investigating the boys death. Radio dispatches reviewed by The Sacramento Bee indicated that at least one dogs was also found dead but the Sheriffs Office said in a social media post that the number of animals, type, etc. is not confirmed. We will provide more information as the investigation progresses, a Sheriffs Office spokesperson said, adding that a news conference was expected to take place Monday afternoon. BOARDMAN, Ohio (WKBN) A woman accused of punching a Hair Depot employee several months ago after a theft attempt was arrested in Liberty Township. Jhamilla Mckenzie was arrested by Liberty Township police following a traffic stop Sunday evening after officers found she had a warrant out of Boardman on charges of assault and theft. The charges were filed in connection to an October incident at Hair Depot on Market Street after police say footage showed a suspect, identified as Mckenzie, slap a phone out of an employees hand and punch him in the face several times after attempting to leave the store with unpaid merchandise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time of the original report, police believed Mckenzie was the same suspect from another incident, and court records show Mckenzie has two recent cases involving charges of theft less than $1,000. While Boardman police were searching for someone matching Mckenzies description following the incident, reports state Youngstown Police Department answered a call for a woman matching her description drop some property in the area of Hillman and Judson which turned out to be merchandise from the store where the theft occurred. During her Sunday arrest, reports state Mckenzie was not cooperating with officers, refusing to give her identity or obey officer orders. Reports state Mckenzie told medical staff she was eight months pregnant before admitting to using cocaine. Medical personnel determined there were no medical issues with Mckenzie or the unborn child, and cleared her to be taken to jail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McKenzie is scheduled to appear in Mahoning County Common Pleas court Tuesday morning for arraignment. Records from Youngstown Municipal court show Mckenzie is also facing misdemeanor charges of failure to disclose ones personal information and drug paraphernalia with an offense date of Sept. 7, 2024. She is set to appear in court on those charges next Tuesday. In an unrelated case, authorities still have not identified the suspect accused of punching a Walmart employee during a late December robbery. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Brazilian police have arrested a woman facing charges of triple homicide after several members of her family were poisoned by an arsenic-laced Christmas cake, police said Monday. Three women died and three other relatives fell ill after eating the cake during a family get-together on December 23 in Torres, a small seaside town in southern Brazil. The police official in charge of the investigation, Marcos Veloso, told a press conference on Monday that there was "strong evidence" incriminating the family member who was arrested. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her identity was not revealed by the police, but Brazilian media reported she was the daughter-in-law of the woman who prepared the cake. G1 reported that the woman researched about arsenic on the internet before the incident, officials confirmed to RBS TV. Expert analyses found high levels of arsenic -- a naturally occurring and extremely toxic element -- in the victims' blood, the remaining slices of cake, and the flour used to bake it. Veloso said the family members had noticed a "spicy" and "unpleasant" flavor to the cake. The woman who baked the cake asked them to stop eating it, but it was too late. Six relatives were hospitalized. Two sisters, aged 58 and 65, as well as the 43-year-old daughter of the eldest sister, died within hours of each other. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The third sister, aged 61, who prepared the cake, is still in hospital in stable condition, according to the latest medical update. Police said they also found several out-of-date food items during a search of the woman's house, CBS News' partner BBC reported. The husband of one of the deceased sisters and a 10-year-old boy -- whose mother and grandmother were among those killed -- have since been discharged. According to local media, police requested for the body of the late husband of the woman who made the cake to be exhumed. He died in September from food poisoning, and his death was deemed natural at the time by police, BBC reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Forensic police director of the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul, Marguet Mittman, said that "very high concentrations of arsenic were found in the three victims." "To give an idea, 35 micrograms are enough to cause the death of a person. In one of the victims there was a concentration 350 times higher," she said. As for the motive behind the deadly cake, Veloso said the family had a "very harmonious" relationship but with long-standing "differences" that could explain the origin of the crime. Very low levels of inorganic and organic arsenic are found in many food products, according to the National Institutes of Health. Testing is routine, as slightly elevated levels of either form can cause symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, numbness and muscle cramping. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Inorganic arsenic is more toxic to humans than the naturally occurring form of the mineral arsenic, and the health effects from exposure are more severe, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The Environmental Protection Agency has labeled inorganic arsenic a carcinogen, or a substance that causes cancer. Massive winter storm expected to bring heavy snow, ice, cold to 25 states How Oakland's Creative Growth enabled generations of artists Justin Trudeau announces he'll resign as prime minister of Canada A civilian woman was injured in Russian airstrikes on the village of Zolochiv in Kharkiv Oblast on the evening of 6 January. Source: Kharkiv Oblast Prosecutor's Office Quote: "The investigation has found that the Russian Armed Forces carried out airstrikes on the village of Zolochiv in the Bohodukhiv district at around 17:25 on 6 January. Three guided aerial bombs are recorded to have hit the territory of the settlement. The aftermath of the Russian attack on Zolochiv. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo: Kharkiv Oblast Prosecutor's Office The aftermath of the Russian attack on Zolochiv. Photo: Kharkiv Oblast Prosecutor's Office At least 30 houses, 2 apartment blocks, outbuildings, a car and power lines were damaged." Details: The woman, 61, suffered an acute stress reaction. Support UP or become our patron! YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) Sentencing will be Feb. 7 for a woman who pleaded guilty Monday in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court to supplying a gun used in a West Side shooting. Read next: Bus crashes into pole in Liberty Lizette Salas, 21, of Youngstown, pleaded guilty before Judge Anthony Donofrio to a charge of unlawful transactions in weapons, a fourth-degree felony. Prosecutors will be standing silent at sentencing. The charge carries a sentence of six to 18 months in prison. Salas is eligible for probation. She is free on bond pending sentencing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Salas is accused of supplying a gun to Phillysha Cummings Wesson, 20, of Youngstown, who pleaded guilty Oct. 15 to a charge of discharge of a firearm at or near a prohibited premises, a third-degree felony. Cummings Wesson was accused of firing several shots Dec. 4, 2023, at the car of a man she was arguing with at the Valley View apartment complex on Tyrell Avenue. Investigators said she blocked his car to prevent him from leaving. The man was not hurt. Assistant Prosecutor Martin Hume said a round that was fired struck a nearby apartment building. Cummings Wesson was sentenced Dec. 11, 2024, by Judge Donofrio to 21 months in prison. Under the terms of her plea agreement, prosecutors will not oppose a request for an early release from prison after she serves a year of her sentence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A U.K. woman is recounting how she had cancer so severe that she began planning her own funeral before she underwent "the mother of all surgeries" and came out cancer-free. Opening up about her cancer diagnosis, Faye Louise of West Essex told BBC in an interview published on Saturday, Jan. 4. that she was diagnosed with a rare former of cancer in 2023 after experiencing stomach pains for months. Doctors first found that she had an ovarian cyst, but it wasn't until Louise underwent surgery for it that she "heard the dreaded c-word" and received a diagnosis of pseudomyxoma peritonei, or PMP, she told the outlet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Cleveland Clinic, this rare cancer spreads by secreting mucin, a component of mucus, inside a person's abdomen, causing it to fill up with a jelly-like substance. Related: After Cancer, Woman Was Told She Had a '0% Chance' of Pregnancy. While Pursuing Surrogacy, She Got a Surprise (Exclusive) Louise, a former model and flight dispatcher at London's Gatwick Airport, told BBC that cancer cells had spread around her body, and she would need to remove eight of her organs, including her spleen, gallbladder, appendix, ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, belly button, part of her liver and greater and lesser omentum (which connects the stomach to other organs). Faye Louise/Instagram Faye Louise after her surgery Faye Louise after her surgery Despite the difficulties that stemmed from the rare diagnosis, doctors pronounced Louise cancer-free following the November 2023 surgery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "To have been told there is no evidence of disease, it was the greatest Christmas gift that I could have got," she told BBC. Doctors still require Louise to go in for an annual scan to make sure her cancer has not returned, but more than one year after her surgery, she is staying positive. "Waiting for the results will sadly make or break every Christmas for me. But you just have to keep pushing forward and never give up," she told the outlet. "Some days I have been down to the depths of despair, but more often than not now, I'm having more positive days." On the first anniversary of her surgery Nov. 25, 2024 Louise wrote candidly in an Instagram post about feeling many different emotions about her cancer journey, including everything from "numb" to "joy." Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. "The last year the grueling recovery and everything I've endured on this journey has been worth it all to hear I am cancer free one year on," she wrote. "I can't thanks the nurses and surgeons enough at Basingstoke who worked on me tirelessly in that operating room for 11 hours. They really have saved my life." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Mom, 40, Who Never Smoked Thought 'Mild Cough' Was Allergies but It Was Lung Cancer (Exclusive) The former model has even taken things a step further she's helped to fundraise for the organization Cancer Research UK and also competed in this year's Race for Life in Brighton, England, to raise more funding to help others with cancer. "Here's to a fabulous Christmas and moving into 2025, making more memories, seeing new places, my cruise, and just knowing cancer isn't coming along for the ride," Louise added in her post. Read the original article on People A woman has been arrested in connection with a Christmas cake that allegedly killed three people and hospitalized three others in Brazil, multiple media outlets reported. On Sunday, police arrested Deise Moura dos Anjos, who is the daughter-in-law of Zeli Terezinha Silva dos Anjos, the woman who prepared the cake that was eaten at a family gathering in Torres, Brazil, on Dec. 23, according to local outlets GZH and O Globo. She is reportedly suspected of triple homicide and triple attempted homicide after three people died, and three others, including Silva dos Anjos, became ill. An attorney for Moura dos Anjos told O Globo that they did not yet have full access to the investigation and could not comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to O Globo, police are investigating if arsenic is present in the bodies of the victims who died. Arsenic was reportedly found in the blood of the surviving victims who were hospitalized. According to the World Health Organization, arsenic is highly toxic when it is inorganic. Three people died after eating a Christmas cake on Dec. 23. Policia Civil The people who ate the cake noted it had a strange, spicy and unpleasant flavor. When they complained about the taste and started to vomit and experience diarrhea, Silva dos Anjos told them to stop eating it, police chief Marcos Vinicius Veloso told O Globo. Five of them went to the hospital, and hours later, sisters Tatiana Denize Silva dos Anjos, 43, and Maida Berenice Flores da Silva, 58, reportedly died from cardiac arrest. Neuza Denize Silva dos Anjos, 65, reportedly died from shock after food poisoning. Only one person at the gathering did not eat the cake, and they did not become sick, according to CBS News. Zeli Silva dos Anjos is the only one who had two slices of cake, and she reportedly had the highest levels of arsenic in her blood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She and a 10-year-old boy were treated in a hospital after eating the cake, along with a third person, whose identity has not been revealed. The boy was discharged, but Silva dos Anjos remains in the ICU in stable condition, according to O Globo. Police have also requested the body of Silva dos Anjos late husband, who died in September of food poisoning, to be exhumed, the BBC reported. His death was ruled natural at the time. Brazils Civil Police did not immediately respond to a HuffPost request for comment. Dive deep into true crime cases and follow the latest headlines with HuffPosts Suspicious Circumstances newsletter. Sign up here. Related... ORLANDO, Fla. (WFLA) A woman is hospitalized with a gunshot wound after accidentally discharging a firearm on a bus, according to the Orange County Sheriffs Office. Around 7:10 a.m. on Monday, deputies responded to the corner of Alafaya Trail and East Colonial Drive in east Orlando regarding the discharge of a firearm on a Lynx bus. 6-year-old rushed to Lakeland hospital after self-inflicted gunshot to head: police Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A woman, only identified as in her 50s, was found with a gunshot wound. The victim was taken to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Deputies said there was no threat to the public. No further details have been released. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A lawsuit was filed Tuesday against the Portage County Sheriffs Office by Mantua Police Officer Miranda Brothers after a child endangerment case against her was dismissed, according to CBS affiliate WOIO. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] We are trying to find out what it is or what caused them to initiate this operation against her in the first place, and why they treated her so differently from any other parent in a similar situation, Brothers attorney, Eric Fink, said. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fink said there was no evidence or probable cause to prove the allegations. Although she was charged with leaving the child alone with a registered sex offender, each of the officers that testified stated that they never saw any contact with the registered sex offender, Fink said. Brothers was arrested in January 2024, her attorney said she was blindsided. The lawsuit claims the sheriffs office demonstrated malice when they prosecuted Brothers case. The lawsuit also said the sheriffs office violated Brothers constitutional right to parent her child. Finally, Brothers lawsuit said the Portage County Sheriffs Office intentionally inflicted emotional distress. The lawsuit cites in part the removal of Brothers child from her care, according to WOIO. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The conduct of the Portage County Sheriffs Office and of Detective Romo of initiating a prosecution against the Plaintiff Brothers without probable cause to believe that Plaintiff Brothers committed the crime of Endangering Children was so extreme and outrageous that it went beyond all possible bounds decency and is intolerable in a civilized community, Brothers lawsuit states. The lawsuit claims that when deputies went through her phone, a detective found private photos of her, unrelated to the case, and shared them. Law enforcement went through it, and they could not find any evidence of any wrongdoing on her cell phone or her childs tablet, Fink said. They did however find several pictures which they then passed around themselves that had nothing to do with the case. [They were explicit in nature?] Yes. Brothers is asking for hundreds of thousands of dollars from the sheriffs office for damages in the lawsuit. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Former President Jimmy Carters dedication to service and commitment to human rights are among the reasons Black people are deeply mourning his passing on December 29 at age 100. But you may be surprised to learn that Carter, the president who had Aretha Franklin sing God Bless America at his 1977 inauguration and issued a 1979 proclamation declaring June as Black Music Month, has another surprising connection to Black music that runs through his bloodline. One of former President Carters sons, Jeff Carter, traced the familys history for his 2017 book, Ancestors of Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter, and discovered a kinship with legendary music producer and Motown Records founder Berry Gordy. It turns out, their family ties date back to 1854, when James Thomas Gordy, a white plantation owner in Georgia, had a child with an enslaved woman. Their child, who was named Berry Gordy, is the grandfather of the record executive responsible for launching the careers of artists like Diana Ross, Smokey Robinson and Michael Jackson. James Thomas Gordy also had children with his wife, and as a result, is the grandfather of Lillian Gordy, President Carters mother. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gordys family did a little research of their own and confirmed their family tree is connected to the Carters a revelation Berry Gordy saw as something to be proud of. In 1978, my sister Esther commissioned a research institute to verify the Gordy family tree, Gordy told The New York Times. You can imagine the shock and pride I felt when I discovered that President Jimmy Carter and I were actually third cousins. We had such fun discussing this in 1980 at a Democratic fund-raiser in Los Angeles. From that point on, we started calling each other cuz. While the news of the Carter-Gordy connection is likely news to most of us, Jeff Carter says the results of his research werent a surprise to his dad. When I found out about it, I asked Dad. He said, Yeah, they all knew about it. It wasnt a secret, he told The New York Times. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. GENEVA (Reuters) -The U.N. World Food Programme said on Monday that Israeli forces had opened fire on one of its convoys in the besieged Palestinian enclave of Gaza in what it called a "horrifying incident". The agency said the convoy of three vehicles carrying eight staff members from central Gaza to Gaza City in the north was struck by 16 bullets near the Wadi Gaza checkpoint on Sunday, causing no injuries but immobilising the convoy. The vehicles were clearly marked and had received prior security clearances from Israeli authorities, a WFP statement said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The World Food Programme (WFP) strongly condemns the horrifying incident on January 5," it said. "This unacceptable event is just the latest example of the complex and dangerous working environment that WFP and other agencies are operating in today," WFP said, calling for improvements in security conditions to allow aid to continue. The Israeli military said it did everything possible to facilitate the transfer of aid and said it was looking into what happened. "The incident was reviewed, operating procedures have been clarified, and findings from the inquiry will be analyzed," it said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement International aid agencies working to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza have frequently accused Israeli forces of hampering or threatening their operations amid Israel's campaign to wipe out Hamas militants. (Reporting by Emma Farge; editing by Matthias Williams, Angus MacSwan and Cynthia Osterman) The UN World Food Programme (WFP) says an aid convoy was shot at by Israeli forces at a checkpoint in the Gaza Strip. In a statement issued Monday, the WFP said it "strongly condemns the horrifying incident on January 5, when a clearly marked WFP convoy was shot at by Israeli forces near the Wadi Gaza checkpoint, putting the lives of our staff at tremendous risk and leaving the vehicles immobilized." The Israeli army said it was looking into the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eight of the staff involved were endangered by the Israeli shelling, the UN organization reported. They were unharmed. The aid convoy had been authorized by Israeli authorities, the WFP emphasized. "This unacceptable event is just the latest example of the complex and dangerous working environment that WFP and other agencies are operating in today. Security conditions in Gaza must urgently improve for lifesaving humanitarian assistance to continue." The WFP urged all parties to respect international humanitarian law, protect civilian lives, and allow safe passage for humanitarian aid. Several aid workers have been killed in Israeli aerial attacks in the course of the current Gaza war. A Second World War aviator flew a plane which was on fire for 500 miles while trying to put it out with flasks of tea. Wing Commander Clive Beadon was dive-bombing the Burma-Siam railway from just 150ft when his RAF Liberator suffered a direct shell hit, killing the gunner and starting a blaze in the rear turret. He and his crewmates tackled the flames by pouring tea and water from their flasks and against the odds flew 500 miles over the Bay of Bengal before the fire eventually stopped. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They made it home after a five-hour ordeal described as one of the most hazardous journeys experienced by Eastern Air Command Liberators in January 1945. Wg Cdr Beadon, who completed three tours of operations with 215 Squadron, was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) for his undoubted courage and devotion to duty. His medals are now going under the hammer at London-based auctioneers Noonans Mayfair. Mark Quayle, medal specialist at Noonans, said: Undoubtedly brave, and indeed a character, Beadon seemed to have a nose for both danger and intrigue. This was put to good use during the course of the Second World War, and by [Winston] Churchill in the immediate aftermath. Wing Commander Clive Beadon was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his bravery, among other medals - Noonans/BNPS Wg Cdr Beadon was born in Coonoor, India, in 1919 and trained at the Imperial Service College in Windsor, Berkshire. He was awarded a scholarship to Sandhurst but instead chose to go to RAF College in Cranwell, Lincolnshire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was posted to India in late 1942 to fly Wellingtons and Liberators with 215 Squadron against the Japanese in Burma. Wg Cdr Beadon carried out daring daylight attacks on Rangoon, Bangkok and Mbulmein, while also supply-dropping to the 14th Army during the monsoon period of 1944. The aviator, who later transferred to the Operations Staff of HQ Air Command, South East Asia, received his DFC in Aug 1945. His DFC citation read: He was recently awarded a Command Mention for bringing back his badly damaged aircraft a distance of over 1,000 miles after attacking successfully at extremely low level, trains on the Bangkok-Chiengmei railway. He has led the squadron on several occasions with outstanding success. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wg Cdr Beadon returned to Britain in 1946 and served with the Air Ministry before Churchill selected him for a top-secret 1953 mission to deport King Freddie of Buganda. He kept his engines running while the recently arrested monarch was dragged screaming across the tarmac of RAF Abingdon, Oxon, and bundled into the back with a blanket over his head. Wg Cdr Beadons medals will be auctioned later this month - BNPS Wg Cdr Beadon later told a friend the cloak-and-dagger operation was like something out of a James Bond film. He was British Air Attache in Caracas, Venezuela, from 1954 to 1957 and in the administrative staff at RAF Colerne before becoming a Ministry of Defence specialist in 1962 and later the Assistant Air Attache in Paris. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following his retirement from the RAF in 1962, he became vice-president of the British Association of Dowsers, pinpointing large deposits of oil in Africa and South America. He died aged 77 in 1996. Wg Cdr Beadons medal group consists of the DFC; 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Burma Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; Coronation 1953; Venezuela, 2nd Class Cross of Las Fuerzas Aereas. The collection has been consigned by a private collector. The auction takes place on Jan 15. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Frustrated New Yorkers ditched their cars to brave freezing temperatures and the increasingly dangerous subway on Monday in response to the roll-out of the citys congestion charge. As snow blanketed the streets, employees who cannot avoid travelling into Manhattan for work said they were worried about using public transport amid a series of disturbing crimes on the network. Others said they feared their colleagues would use the congestion charge to push for a return to working from home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Jan 5, motorists will be charged $9 a day if they enter the citys congestion relief zone anywhere south of 60th Street. The move, which was temporarily blocked by New York governor Kathy Hochul amid fears it could negatively affect local Democrat candidates, marks the first time congestion pricing has been rolled out in a US city. The toll is meant to reduce gridlock traffic in the countrys most populous city while raising money to help fix the subway system. But the unpopular move comes after a series of terrifying attacks on public transport. On Dec 22, Debrina Kawam, 61, died after she was set on fire by an illegal migrant from Guatemala after falling asleep on the subway. He was arrested a few hours later and is facing first-degree murder and arson charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The following week, DJ Joseph Lynskey, 45, was critically injured after being pushed on to the subway tracks on New Years Eve. The motive for the apparently random attack, which happened at 18th Street station, was not known. Subway stations becoming more dangerous In response, volunteers for the street crime-fighting group Guardian Angels have been riding on the trains to reassure the public. On Sunday, a crowd of 100 people gathered to chant pay that toll! in support of the new system. But on Monday morning, New Yorkers described how they were forced to take the subway which they feel is unsafe because of the extra pressure the congestion charge would place on their household budgets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Antonio Cabrera, who works in security in Manhattan, commutes into the city from Rockland County, around 30 miles north of his office in Midtown. Until Monday, he commuted into the city in his electric car which he parked outside his office. But, unable to spend the extra $180 a month to commute to work on top of bridge toll fees, Mr Cabrera must now drive to the George Washington Bridge, take a bus and then get on the subway to work. Its inconvenient, because the subway has issues with crime and everything, Mr Cabrera told The Telegraph. The retired detective said he has had bad experiences using public transport before and fears certain stations are becoming more dangerous with rowdy customers and homeless people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im annoyed about it. Its snowing right now, Ive got to get on the train, get the bus... its cold. Vehicles pass a sign on 9th Avenue announcing New York Citys congestion pricing - REUTERS You keep your head on a swivel Bryan Haughton, 58, who works in a mattress shop in Midtown, usually commutes from the Bronx on public transport but would drive in on the weekends to enjoy free parking. Now he will need to either get the subway all the way in or park higher up and get public transport to his office. He is nervous about getting on the subway past 7.30pm, when he says carriages attract a different type of crowd. You have to keep your head on the swivel a little bit more and pay attention. Dont doze off and kind of like, keep an eye out whats going on, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While he voted for Ms Hochul in the last gubernatorial election because he felt she was the lesser of two evils, he is now unsure about whether she will get her vote next year. Many New Yorkers such as Mr Haughton expressed concern that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority was not focusing its attention on catching people who evade subway fares by jumping the turnstiles. I think thats where the money is lost. I mean, even if a cop is right there, people are just crossing [without paying], he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finance worker Mourdy, who declined to give his surname, said he fears the congestion fee will encourage staff to return to working from home because of fears over subway safety. As he picked up his car from a garage in Midtown, he told The Telegraph: I think people are just going to stop coming in, and its going to cause people to want to work from home again and set us back. We had people gone for Covid. We finally started getting them back in the office. And now I feel that people are going to use that excuse not to come in. People dont feel safe on the trains. If the governor really wanted to do something about the city and help the city, why dont you correct the train, the transit system problems and and the safety of that before you start working on whether or not you charge people to come into the city? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I havent been using the subway system for many years because of safety issues. Others frustrated by the decision include limousine driver Paul Panettiere, 58, and Lowes Hotel doorman Bryan Williams, who both voted for Ms Hochul but said they wont do so again. Mr Williams, 57, said: People are tired because these politicians seem like they take working people for dummies, the things they do and say, not just realising that whatever they do and say, we look at it because were the ones that it affects. Food truck owner Charlie Reyes, 46, echoed that sentiment. I think its a bad idea, he said as he wrapped steaming bacon and egg sandwiches in foil for freezing customers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yes, its gonna affect us, because, you know, we got customers coming on, they park here next to me, they get out, they buy, they leave. For low-income workers like us, it does affect us... At the end of the day, were talking about $50 a week. Charlie Reyes fears fewer cars will affect his food truck trade There are scores of vocal critics of the plan, including Donald Trump who vowed to terminate congestion charging in his first week in office. Other opponents include the Democrat New Jersey governor Phil Murphy, who has filed a lawsuit against the programme. The United Federation of Teachers, an important labour union for New York Democrats, has also challenged the programme. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aleksandr Iskhakov, who has worked as a taxi driver in the city for more than three decades, said traffic on Monday did not seem to be reduced. It doesnt look good. Theres still a lot of cars in the city, he said. He said he will not be impacted, as taxis pay a reduced fee and customers are charged an extra 75 cents per journey. On Monday morning, the traffic appeared to be congested around 61st Street, just above where cameras have been installed on the gantries to enforce the charge. There was never traffic like this before at 61st Street and Madison, the intersection usually is just clean, free, you fly here... everybody is trying to keep north of 61st Street not to pay that $9 but so its congested here. Its very congested in the city now. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Motorists entering Manhattans busiest neighborhoods will now have to pay up to $9 in congestion charges, as New York Citys first-in-the-nation Congestion Relief Zone officially launched Sunday. New Yorks Metropolitan Transportation Authority said that the zone opened at 12:00:01 a.m. on Sunday morning and is fully operational. The scheme aims to ease New Yorks infamous traffic problems and raise money for public transportation. It comes into effect despite an eleventh-hour effort from neighboring New Jersey and local opposition including from President-elect Donald Trump. Pedestrians, cyclists and cars move along Delancey Street in New York City on Nov. 13, 2024. Under the pricing plan, most cars entering Manhattans central business district which stretches from 60th Street all the way down to the southern tip of the Financial District must pay a peak fee of $9 from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Off-peak would be a 75% discount $2.25. Small trucks and noncommuter buses will pay $14.40 to enter Manhattan at peak times, while larger trucks and tourist buses will pay a $21.60 fee. Motorists will only be charged once a day, and exemptions include certain emergency and government vehicles, as well as low-income drivers and those who have medical conditions that prevent them from using mass transit. School and commuter buses are also exempt. The MTA has predicted there would be 10% fewer cars and trucks after the toll begins. MTA executives have also promised that billions of dollars raised by congestion pricing will pay to modernize the system all across the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The program was reinstated after Gov. Kathy Hochul pushed to revive it after two years of delays and revisions amid complaints from commuters and businesses who dont think the fare is fair. But the real race was to get the pricing approved before Trump takes office in January. Trump, a native New Yorker, has vowed to scrap the plan when he returns to the White House, and Republicans have already urged him to intervene. The charges also began as scheduled despite a last-ditch attempt by New Jersey to block the plan on environmental grounds. The lawsuit from New Jersey, seeking tens of millions of dollars, predicted environmental harm if traffic gets worse on the other side of the river. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the judge ruled that the Federal Highway Administration will need to weigh in, the MTA told NBC New York last week that it had the green light to proceed with the start of congestion pricing. In response to New Jerseys lawsuit, Hochul has said she offered money to settle it but no deal was reached. Weve made multiple offers to settle this lawsuit, very generous offers, Hochul said previously. New York may be the first American city to adopt congestion pricing, but similar schemes have long been in place in cities like London and Stockholm. This story first appeared on NBCNews.com. This article was originally published on TODAY.com DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) A New York man and his company have been indicted for allegedly taking over $125,000 from Ohioans receiving benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. According to the Ohio Investigative Unit, Hafedh Al-Gahim, 52, of Brooklyn, New York, along with his company, Buffalo Discount Corp., have been indicted on the following charges: Theft Illegal use of EBT Money laundering Telecommunications Fraud In just a period of five weeks, over 370 transactions were reportedly fraudulent, with Ohio SNAP recipients being reportedly impacted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Agents determined that all of the transactions were fraudulent, with Ohio EBT card details being used every 30 to 45 seconds at the Brooklyn terminal, often for transactions as high as $800 each, said OIU. To report EBT fraud, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. New York State Police are calling on the public to assist in their search for a wanted man. Marcus A. Shatraw, 34, of Massena, is wanted for third degree assault and criminal trespassing of the second degree in the Town of Stockholm. Police have described him as a 58 man with blue eyes and white-brown hair. Anyone with information on Shatraw should call 315-379-0012. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A young boy was found alive in a game park in Zimbabwe after he went missing for several days. Mutsa Murombedzi, a member of parliament in Mashonaland West, shared the harrowing story of eight-year-old Tinotenda Pudu in a Jan. 1 post on X, calling the event a true miracle. Murombedzi said that the boy had wandered 23 kilometers (approximately 14.3 miles) away from his community, located in rural Kariba, and got lost, leading him into Matusadona National Park. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the park, she said he slept on a rocky perch, amidst roaring lions, passing elephants and ate wild fruit. However, after five days, he was found alive by park rangers. We are overwhelmed with gratitude to the brave park rangers, the tireless Nyaminyami community who beat night drums each day to get the boy hear sound & get the direction back home & everyone who joined the search, Murombedzi added. A boy missing & found in Matusadonha game park A true miracle in remote Kasvisva community, Nyaminyami in rural Kariba, a community where one wrong turn could easily lead into a game park. 8-year-old Tinotenda Pudu wandered away, lost direction & unknowingly headed into the pic.twitter.com/z19BLffTZW Mutsa Murombedzi MP (@mutsamu) January 1, 2025 The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) shared a statement about the incident on X, confirming that the boy went missing on Dec. 27, 2024, and was located on Dec. 31, 2024. ZimParks said the boy was seven years old and estimated that he walked 49 kilometers (approximately 30 miles) from his village through the harsh terrain of the lion infested park. The statement said that rangers were presented challenges posed by heavy rainfall, which disturbed the childs footprints. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During this period, he survived on wild fruits and would dig a small hole along the dry river bank to access underground water to drink, a technique that is well known in drought prone areas, the statement continued. ZimParks said the boy was taken to a local clinic for preliminary examinations before he was transferred to a hospital for further medical evaluations. Murombedzi shared further details of the boys experience on X, sharing that Pudu had heard the park rangers vehicles and attempted to run toward them, but was too late. He returned to the rocky outcrop and when the rangers came back on the same path, they discovered his footprints and found him in the area. And so what happened was he then heard a park rangers vehicle and tried to run towards the noise but was late only to see vehicle markings in the off the beaten path in the game park. Then he went back to the rocky outcrop but luckily the park rangers when they were coming back Mutsa Murombedzi MP (@mutsamu) January 1, 2025 In an update shared on X Jan. 4, Murombedzi said that she was in contact with the permanent secretary for the Ministry of Health and Child Care and the medical director of Mashonaland West about Pudus health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They have assured me that now that he has rested & was stabilized, a mental health team will soon assess him, focusing on his mental health, to ensure he has not suffered lasting trauma, she explained. UPDATE on young boy Tinotenda Pudu who got lost & was found in lion infested Matusadonha Game Park I engaged with the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Child Care & the Provincial Medical Director for Mashonaland West called me regarding Tinotendas well-being pic.twitter.com/mHek9fi6YY Mutsa Murombedzi MP (@mutsamu) January 4, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Murombedzi said that it was strongly recommended that Pudu not participate in any interviews, noting, Recounting his ordeal too soon may risk triggering emotional or psychological distress. This article was originally published on TODAY.com Volodymyr Zelensky has clashed with an American podcaster who suggested Vladimir Putin should be forgiven as part of a compromise that leads to a peace deal. Lex Fridman, one of the most popular podcast hosts in the United States, with connections to Elon Musk and Joe Rogan, asked the Ukrainian president if he should excuse Putin. In an emotional and, at times, angry confrontation, Mr Zelensky turned the tables on his host, calling Putin a child murderer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Zelensky asked his interviewer whether he had children which he doesnt. He said: This is the most important thing in life, and they simply took away the most precious thing from you. Will you ask who ruined your life before going to rip their head off? Im just curious. They took your child away. Are you going to ask who did this? And they will answer that that dude did this. You will say, oh, well then there are no questions. No, no, no. You will go f------ hell and bite their head off and it will be fair. Can murderers be forgiven? Credit: Lex Fridman Podcast It was an uncharacteristic outburst by Ukraines leader, whose troops are under pressure on the front lines as air strikes continue across the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fridman, 41, rose to fame after interviewing Mr Musk and appearing on Rogans podcast. He also interviewed Donald Trump during the election. Mr Zelensky and Fridman, who is also a computer scientist, spoke for nearly three hours for the podcasts latest episode, which has amassed five million views on YouTube alone. During their conversion, Mr Zelensky dropped his guard on numerous occasions, swearing and reverting to his former career as a leading comedian in Ukraine. It was a side of the Ukrainian president that has rarely been seen since Russia mounted its invasion almost three years ago. Fridman, born in the Soviet Union, was criticised before the interview over his request to carry out the podcast in Russian, which both he and Mr Zelensky can speak fluently. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the Ukrainian president refused to use the language of the aggressor state. The people who attack us, they speak Russian. They attack people who were only recently told that this was actually in defence of Russian-speaking people, and this is why I respect neither the leader or director of todays Russia, nor the people, he said. The podcaster insisted the aim of his interview, which took place in Kyiv, was to do all I can to push for peace. In a discussion over the prospect of future peace talks, Fridman suggested Mr Zelensky would have to submit to a deal that not only pleases Ukrainians but also Putin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately the reality is that a compromise is needed in order to reach an agreement, Fridman said. Mr Zelensky replied: The fact that he is not in jail after all the murders, hes not in jail assuming all the murders and no one in the world is able to put him in his place, send him to prison. Do you think this is a small compromise? He then attacked the idea of a compromise. Mr Zelensky also sought to correct Fridmans assertion that Putin loves his country. Putin does not love his people You are mistaken. He does not love his people. He loves his inner circle. Its only a small part of the people. He doesnt love them. Why? Ill explain. You cannot send your people to another land knowing that they will die, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Children, my daughter, she is 20 years old. For me, this is a child. Shes already an adult of course, but shes a child. The boys he sends are 18 years old. They are children. He sends them. He said the danger posed by Putin meant his country had to seek security guarantees from its Western allies to ensure its protection from another invasion going forward. One plan presented by Mr Zelensky to Donald Trump, the president-elect, was for Western governments to release $300 billion in frozen Russian assets in order for Kyiv to purchase American weapons, he told Fridman. Mr Trump, his aides and supporters often complain that Washington should not simply hand over weapons to Ukraine for its defence for free. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We dont need gifts from the United States. It will be very good for your industry, for the United States. We will put money there. Russian money, not Ukrainian, not European. Russian money, Russian assets, Mr Zelensky said. He also repeated a claim that he would accept partial Nato membership for his country, under which Russian-occupied territories would be excluded from the alliances mutual defence clauses, as a diplomatic way to end the war. He said the Wests initial response to the threat of a Russian invasion before February 24 2022 was b-------. We didnt receive help. If we assume that words are help, well then yes, we received a lot of it because there were plenty of words, he added, complaining about the lack of weapons donations and sanctions against Russia before Putins troops crossed the border into Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a sign of his reliance on Mr Trump to help bring about peace, Mr Zelensky devoted swathes of his podcast appearance to flattering the president-elect. He signalled that European leaders only started taking interest in his discussions with the Americans after Mr Trump won the US presidential elections in November 2024. I now see that when I talk about something with Donald Trump, whether we meet in person or we just have a call, all the European leaders always ask, How was it? This shows the influence of Donald Trump, he said, in a parting shot at Joe Biden, the outgoing president, whose status has diminished in Kyiv in recent months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He revealed that Mr Trump had assured him their first meeting after the inauguration on Jan 20 would be one of the presidents first official engagements. The interview, which was also published in full on X, was seen as a success for Mr Zelensky. Fridman has continued to face criticism, however, over his framing of questions towards Mr Zelensky, especially over Russia requiring security guarantees from Ukraine. The podcast host has been accused of recording other episodes with prominent Ukrainian figures, including a war reporter and government minister, without publishing them. In late 2024 he was questioned over the whereabouts of interviews with Illia Ponomarenko, a journalist with more than a million social media followers, and Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraines minister for digital transformation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fridman was accused of blocking users on X, Mr Musks social media platform, who challenged him over the allegedly unpublished episodes. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. President Volodymyr Zelensky previously offered U.S. President-elect Donald Trump for Ukraine to buy American weapons at the expense of $300 billion in frozen Russian assets, Zelensky revealed in an interview with American podcaster Lex Fridman published on Jan. 5. "This is one of the security guarantees. Take the money, what we need for our interior production, and we will buy all the weapons from the United States. We don't need gifts from the United States," Zelensky said in his wide-ranging interview with Fridman. "It will be very good for your industry. For the United States. We will put money there. Russian money. Not Ukrainian. Not European. Russian money. Russian assets. They have to pay for this," Zelensky added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelensky did not comment on Trump's reaction to the suggestion. Trump and his team have been critical of U.S. spending to support Ukraine. Michael Waltz, Trump's appointed National Security Advisor for his upcoming term said on Dec. 15 that a "blank check... just isn't a strategy." Despite previously criticizing U.S. aid for Ukraine, the Financial Times reported on Dec. 21, citing undisclosed sources, that Trump may not halt U.S. military support for Ukraine. Zelensky has taken steps to foster a positive relationship with Trump, despite previously having a fraught relationship stemming from Trumps 2019 impeachment trial. The two leaders met on Sept. 27 in the midst of the U.S. presidential election campaign. They met again on the sidelines of the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron on Dec. 7. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He (Trump) is strong... He is young... and his brains work," Zelensky said when asked why he thinks Trump won the U.S. presidential election in November. Zelensky previously said that the country must do everything possible to end the war through diplomatic means in 2025, adding that a war would "end faster" under a Trump administration. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine launches new offensive in Russias Kursk Oblast, mixed reports surface on outcome Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The Department of Tourism (DOT) said Monday tourism revenue hit a record P760.5 billion in 2024, up by 9.04 percent from P697.46 billion in 2023. DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco lauded the sectors resilience and its crucial role in economic growth, emphasizing its impact on job creation and livelihoods, especially in rural areas. - Advertisement - The Philippine tourism industry has not only bounced back but has evolved and expanded. This growth translates to opportunities for thousands of Filipinos, fostering economic stability and inclusivity, she said. She said the record revenue was also about 26.75 percent higher than the pre-pandemic level of P600.01 billion in 2019, tantamount to a recovery rate of 126.75 percent. Meanwhile, international visitor arrivals hit 5,949,350 international in 2024, up by 9.15 percent from 5,450,557 in 2023. Of these, 91.42 percent or about 5.43 million were foreign nationals, while the rest were overseas Filipinos. South Korea remained the top source market, contributing 1.57 million visitors, sharing 26 percent to the total. The US followed with 947,891 visitors, while Japan recorded an impressive 27-percent growth, reaching 388,316 arrivals. Other significant contributors included Australia with 272,215; Canada with 223,944; and China, which, despite challenges, saw a modest recovery with 312,222 arrivals. Emerging markets like Taiwan with 208,736 tourists and Singapores 157,264 also showed strong growth. Frasco attributed the sectors success to the Marcos administrations pro-tourism policies, which focus on sustainable development, infrastructure enhancement and workforce training. Citing data from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), Frasco noted that international tourists spend reached $2,073 per capita and stayed an average of 11 nights, compared to 9 nights in 2019. About 70 percent of visitors are repeat tourists, underscoring the Philippines appeal as a top travel destination. In a newly released three-hour interview, U.S. podcaster Lex Fridman tried to persuade President Volodymyr Zelensky that Russian President Vladimir Putin is a serious person who loves his country." He loves his inner circle. Its only a small part of the people. He doesn't love (the Russian people), Zelensky countered. You cannot send your people to another land to die, knowing that they will die. The boys he sends (to fight in Ukraine) are 18-years-old. They are children. Its not that fascists came to his land, and he needs to defend it he came to ours, and he sent them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With nearly five million subscribers on his YouTube channel, Fridman, born in Tajikistan and raised in Moscow, organized an interview with Zelensky that was published on Jan. 5 as part of what he described as his small part in pushing for peace. Fridmans show has previously hosted controversial figures, including U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, entrepreneur Elon Musk, political commentator Vivek Ramaswamy, and former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, all of whom have advanced narratives portraying Ukraine as a corrupt nation bent on escalating war with Russia. In this context, Zelenskys appearance on Fridmans podcast appeared to be a savvy move aimed at reaching a segment of the Western audience misinformed about the realities of Russias war against Ukraine. Throughout the interview, Zelensky navigated Fridmans idealized view of Ukraine-Russia relations sometimes through a slew of curse words including the idea that Ukrainians would forgive Russians in the near future, and that the two nations could return to a semblance of their former brotherly union. The Russian language question Ahead of their meeting, Fridman took to X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, to publicly urge Zelensky to conduct the conversation in Russian, citing it as the only language in which both men were fluent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking in a language we're both fluent in will result in the most deep, dynamic, and powerful conversation, Fridman wrote. Moscow-born U.S. podcaster Lex Fridman during his interview with President Volodymyr Zelensky in a video posted on Jan.5, 2024. (Lex Fridman / YouTube) During the interview, Fridman was met with a lighthearted jab from Zelensky, who, with a smile, remarked that Fridmans Russian was not that great. Throughout his career as an actor and comedian, Zelensky was a fixture of Ukraines Russian-speaking cultural sphere, enjoying widespread popularity in both Ukraine and Russia. But as Zelensky explained to Fridman, the past decade of war with Russia and particularly the nearly three years since the full-scale invasion had dramatically shifted many Ukrainians perspectives on the use of the Russian language in society. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I cant respond in Russian the entire interview, because this is how it is today. I am not making anything up, you can see it all for yourself, you can feel and hear it, Zelensky said, while mentioning the number of Russian missiles and drones launched at Ukraine in a recent attack. I dont think you can just pretend that nothing is happening and give Putin a pass once again for saying that we are one people, that we speak one language. (Russians) speak the language of weapons. That is a fact. And we are peaceful people. Undeterred, Fridman countered with a note of optimism, expressing his "hope" on the first of several occasions that the Russian people and perhaps even Putin himself might see the interview. Zelensky reminded Fridman that he had made a direct appeal to the Russian people in their own language at the outset of the full-scale war, only to be met with silence. Theyre mute, Zelensky said, adding: They did not listen. A billboard promoting contract army service and reading "5 200 000 rubles for the first year of the contract" (about $57,000) is seen in western Moscow, Russia on Sept. 11, 2024. (Alexander Nemenov / AFP via Getty Images) Zelensky also pushed back against Fridmans concern that translation might dull the impact of their conversation a puzzling point given the interview was ultimately made available entirely in Ukrainian, English, and Russian using awkward, AI-generated voiceovers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think what is most important is what were talking about, not how, Zelensky said. The question of language set the tone for the interview before it even began, with Fridmans talking points suggesting he appeared to want to not only reinforce his own narrative about Ukraine, but also to subtly encourage Zelensky to align with his perspective. Do you think there will ever be a day when the Ukrainian people will ever forgive the Russian people? And both peoples will travel back and forth again and marry each other, rekindle and form friendships? Fridman asked. Although visibly taken aback by the question, Zelensky said that history has demonstrated the possibility of such an outcome. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont know how it will be for us, he said before emphasizing a crucial condition: any path forward would require Russians to first acknowledge their culpability as the aggressor in the war. US aid and corruption accusations Perhaps the key topic Fridman raised during the interview was the issue of U.S. aid, and concerns about its potential misuse. Fridman said that how Ukraine addresses these corruption allegations will be a crucial factor in shaping the country's future trajectory. While clarifying that much of U.S. aid to Ukraine consists of military support rather than direct financial assistance, Zelensky highlighted the development of a sophisticated anti-corruption system under his leadership, calling it the most advanced in all of Europe, and a vital element of Ukraines journey towards EU membership. Zelensky was referring to institutions such as the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU), which is responsible for investigating and prosecuting high-level corruption among officials. Though these institutions have not been without their own controversies regarding the impartiality of some of its officials, Zelensky expressed confidence in their ability to uncover and address any institutional corruption within Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine has grappled with multiple corruption scandals tied to wartime procurement. Some Defense Ministry officials under the tenure of former Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov were accused of embezzling money through the purchase of low-quality equipment for soldiers, as well as purchasing food for the military at inflated prices. Ukrainian authorities have also detained a number of military enlistment officers on charges of accepting bribes from men attempting to evade deployment to the front lines. We talk about (corruption) openly, Zelensky said, adding: We are genuinely fighting against it. I am sure Ukraine will overcome all this. (But) this takes a little time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelensky also spoke of his administrations successes in curbing oligarch influence, citing the incarceration of Ihor Kolomoisky one of Ukraines most powerful oligarchs as a major achievement. Zelensky also suggested that corruption was an issue in Western countries. Ukraine has received less than half of the $177 billion in U.S. aid allocated to support Kyiv throughout the full-scale war, according to Zelensky. He suggested that this shortfall could be tied to issues of corruption or lobbying by U.S. companies. "If we had $177 billion and if we get the half, where is the second half? If you find the second half, you will find corruption," he said. Negotiating with Putin Fridman shared his dream of a scenario in which Trump could facilitate a meeting between Zelensky and Putin to bring the war to an end. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelensky argued that it was naive to believe Putin genuinely sought an end to the war, emphasizing the need to approach negotiations from a position of strength an outcome he hoped Trump could help facilitate. President Trump will be in the same situation as I was in 2019 precisely the same situation. I want to end the war, and we want lasting peace for Ukraine. We must do this. The ceasefire, exchange people, and then diplomatically return all territories, and we will do this through diplomacy, Zelensky said. "I want to end the war, and we want lasting peace for Ukraine." What will happen next with President Trump? If the ceasefire happens without security guarantees, at least for the territory we control, what does he get? If he manages to make a ceasefire deal and three months later Putin launches a new wave of attacks, what will Trump look like? What will Ukraine look like? (L-R) President Volodymyr Zelensky, French President Emmanuel Macron, Russian President Vladimir Putin and then-German Chancellor Angela Merkel attend their summit on Ukraine at Elysee Palace in Paris, France on Dec. 9, 2019. (Christophe Petit Tesson - Pool/Getty Images) To explain why he didnt believe Putin was interested in a peace deal, Zelensky recalled the 2019 Normandy Format meeting, a high-stakes summit in which he joined French President Emmanuel Macron, then-German Chancellor Angela Merkel, and Putin to negotiate a ceasefire in the ongoing war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Zelensky, Putin appeared strikingly uninformed about key details, such as the length of the front line or the timeline required to disengage troops an omission Zelensky attributed to Putins lack of intention to follow through on any ceasefire deal. The Russian leader, however, displayed marked preparation on one topic: maintaining gas transit agreements, underscoring the economic stakes that loomed over the discussions. The ceasefire lasted less than a month, and Putin stopped taking Zelenskys calls. The ceasefire lasted less than a month, and Putin stopped taking Zelenskys calls. Russia sent snipers to Ukraines eastern regions, where they honed their skills by hunting the very Ukrainian civilians that Putin claimed the war was intended to protect, Zelensky said. These snipers were then deployed to other conflict zones in Africa and the Middle East, according to Zelensky. Proof of this sent to international organizations like the U.N. went unheeded, Zelensky said. (Putin) is darkness personified. And you offer him, as it were, to be subjectivized. Theres only one reason: fear, Zelensky said. And you say we need to talk. Listen. We need to be in a strong position and not talk but end the war. Zelensky went on to warn that without security guarantees, such as NATO membership, Putin would inevitably launch another invasion of Ukraine in the future. Read also: Putin is afraid of Trumps administration Estonian foreign minister on potential Russia-Ukraine negotiations On the impossibility of forgiving Putin Calls for compromise as a means to reach an agreement with Russia drew a swift and pointed rebuke from Zelensky, who argued that Ukraine asking for NATO membership was in itself a compromise. Zelensky went on to tell Fridman that Putin's continued freedom and the improbability of him ever facing imprisonment was itself a compromise, and that it was impossible to forgive Putin for the war. To forgive? No one will forgive. It is absolutely impossible to forgive him, Zelensky said, his tone resolute as he sought to drive home the gravity of the losses Ukraine has endured. We cannot comprehend the mind or soul of someone who has lost their family, he added, invoking the countless Ukrainian families who have suffered the loss of children the loss of the most precious thing in this world. While U.S. Democrats have promoted the idea that Trump is pro-Putin, Zelensky notably took the opportunity during the interview to contrast the leadership skills of Trump and Putin. Zelensky implied that Trump as U.S. president cared more about his people, given the number of places he visited across the country during the presidential campaign. I pray to God that (war) will never be on your land, Zelensky said. But Im sure if you had some (natural disaster) on your land that President Trump would be there (in a matter of days). Otherwise, how will people look at him? I pray to God that (war) will never be on your land. Zelensky went on to note that Putin had yet to visit Kursk Oblast, part of which is now under Ukrainian military control, since Kyiv launched an incursion in August. This failure to visit Kursk Oblast and be with the people there, Zelensky argued, highlighted the disconnect between Putins propaganda-fueled image as a leader devoted to protecting his people and the reality of his actions. Amid the gravity of the topics addressed during the far-reaching interview, one moment captured Zelenskys perspective with a touch of dark humor a nod to his past as a comedian. When Fridman jokingly floated the idea of a hypothetical meeting between Zelensky and Putin by the sea, Zelensky quipped: One of us may drown. And I am a good swimmer. Read also: Trumps pick for Ukraine envoy backs peace through strength, security guarantees Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy believes that US President-elect Donald Trump could be the first world leader to fly to Ukraine, but that this will happen after the war is over. Source: Zelenskyy in an interview with American podcaster Lex Fridman Quote: "Yes, I am looking forward to it [the reopening of Kyiv Airport ed.]. Maybe we will open it, but only, and you must understand, if the war is over. There must be sustainable peace and air defence systems, to be honest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lets focus on the airport in Rzeszow, which, as you know very well, is handling important cargo for Ukraine in Poland: there are Patriot systems there. Because everyone understands what the risk is. Well, Russia is a risk. And today, to take, for example, the air defence system of one city or another that is being shelled and move it to the airport well, that would be dishonest. People are more important than planes. But there will be a moment I think that the war will end and President Trump may be the first leader to travel here by airplane. I think it would be symbolic." Background: Passenger flights over Ukraine were completely closed on 24 February 2022. In April 2023, the European Organisation for the Safety of Air Navigation (Eurocontrol) predicted that restrictions on flights in the airspace of Ukraine, Russia, Belarus and Moldova would remain in place until 2029. In October 2023, Boryspil International Airport announced that it was ready to start accepting planes a month after the end of the war. In December 2023, Andrii Yermak, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, said that one of Ukraine's civilian airports was likely to open before the end of the war. In October 2024, the Ministry of Communities Development, together with the State Aviation Administration, Ukrainian State Air Traffic Services Enterprise, the Air Force Command, and international airport managers, presented a roadmap for opening Ukraine's airspace under martial law. Support UP or become our patron! President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that elections in Ukraine will be possible only after the war's end or after legislation changes. Source: Zelenskyy in an interview with American podcaster Lex Friedman Quote: "That is, everyone in Ukraine understands that this (elections - ed.) cannot be done until the war is over or legislation needs to be changed. I believe that elections will take place immediately after the end of martial law. This is according to the law. Or members of the parliament need to get together and change legislation, which will be very difficult to do because society is against it." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Zelenskyy explained that society is against holding elections because it is necessary to create an infrastructure for voting for 8.5 million Ukrainians who have moved abroad. Quote: "Millions of people in the occupied territories. I am not even talking about the occupation of 2014. I am talking about the occupation right now. What to do with these people? This is a difficult question. And one of the most unfair ones is how to vote without having a million soldiers. That is, it is impossible." Details: The president also noted that to hold elections during the war, it would be necessary to change the voting system, in particular, to consider the possibility of online voting. However, this idea raises concerns about potential cyberattacks and other threats. Support UP or become our patron! President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that the first talks on ending the war will take place with US President-elect Donald Trump after his inauguration, and then with Russian ruler Vladimir Putin if the American leader offers "strong security guarantees for Ukraine". Source: Zelenskyy in an interview with American podcaster Lex Fridman Quote from Zelenskyy: "I think, on 25 January or some other day well, you just called it 25 January, and I dont mind, its my birthday and we sit down, first of all, with Trump. We agree with him on how we can stop the war, stop Putin." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Zelenskyy also stressed the importance of Europe also having a voice, "because Europe will be looking at us, and will be looking at Trump". He noted that all European leaders always ask Zelenskyy about his conversations or meetings with Trump. Zelenskyy emphasised that if the American leader offers strong security guarantees for Ukraine, then there may be a conversation with the Russians. "That's right, not just the three of us sitting down at once," he said. Nevertheless, Zelenskyy suggested that Trump could be in a difficult political position if he achieves a ceasefire without providing Ukraine with relevant security guarantees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his opinion, this may resemble the situation Zelenskyy found himself in in 2019. "Do not wait for Putin to want to stop the war. Pressure him so that he is forced to stop the war thats important," the Ukrainian president concluded. It is worth noting that during the election campaign, Trump repeatedly boasted of his good relations with the Kremlin leader. He also repeatedly promised to end the war in Ukraine within 24 hours if elected. Background: Putin recently said during his annual press conference that he was "ready" for potential talks with Trump. Trump said on 23 December that the Russian leader had expressed a desire to meet with him as soon as possible to discuss the war in Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on Monday, 6 January, that Ukraine continues to maintain a buffer zone in Russia's Kursk Oblast five months after launching the operation. Source: Zelenskyy in an evening address on 6 January Quote: "Second the Kursk operation. Today marks exactly five months since the start of our actions in Kursk Oblast, and we continue to maintain a buffer zone on Russian territory, actively destroying Russian military potential there. Since the beginning of the Kursk operation, the enemy has already lost over 38,000 troops in this area alone, including approximately 15,000 irrecoverable losses. The Russians have deployed their strong units to Kursk Oblast. Soldiers from North Korea are involved there." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Zelenskyy stressed that the Russians cannot direct all this force to other areas, particularly to Donetsk, Sumy, Kharkiv or Zaporizhzhia fronts. The Ukrainian president also convened a meeting of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief's Staff and heard a separate report from Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and Anatolii Barhylevych, Chief of Ukraine's General Staff. Quote: "First the defence of our frontline positions, with a primary focus on Pokrovsk. I am grateful to all the brigades and every warrior currently stationed there. We discussed brigade staffing and rotations. The army needs more internal, systemic changes to ensure effective personnel management at all levels of the defence forces. There were also detailed reports from the responsible commanders regarding the formation and training of our brigades." Support UP or become our patron! You are the owner of this article. Lanhee J. Chen, a contributing writer to the Los Angeles Times, is a fellow at the Hoover Institution and the director of domestic policy studies in the public policy program at Stanford University. He was a candidate for California state controller in 2022. While the Pittsylvania County Planning Commission will weigh a proposal for a company to build a data center with on-site power generation when it meets Tuesday evening, county staff is recommending denying the project in its current state. The endeavor called Balico Technology Campus is a scaled-back version of one submitted in late October that sought to rezone more than 2,200 acres. It included a 3,500-megawatt natural gas power plant for 84 data center structures in the Chalk Level Road area of the county. The revised version would rezone 14 parcels amounting to 763.16 acres, from whats known as residential suburban subdivision and agricultural districts to a heavy-use industrial district. Balico plans mobile gas turbines to provide up to 300 megawatts of power, according to a letter submitted to the county Nov. 19. However, the original request for a massive power plant is still included in the official language of Tuesdays meeting agenda packet. Currently, the properties are vacant or being used for active farming operations, the executive summary of the project states on the agenda for Tuesdays meeting. If rezoned, the applicant is proposing to construct a 3500-megawatt natural gas power plant, that would be privately owned, to generate the electricity needed to construct a data center complex that would consist of approximately twelve (12), two-story data centers. However, theres no stand-alone electricity plant in the new plans, instead gas-powered turbines would supply what is needed. The previous power plant which would have been the largest in the state of Virginia was a major point of contention. These turbines are feeding into the buildings, Irfan Ali, the owner, and founder of Balico, told the Register & Bee at a community meeting last month in Hurt. They are purposely dedicated to the buildings. Ali acknowledged to the newspaper that the new application represents only the first phase of the project. There is plenty of land to expand to, Ali told the newspaper prior to the meeting. Well see how the first phase goes, he said. If it goes well and its successful, there certainly is always the possibility of expanding. The turbines would be regulated by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, not the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, according to the application letter submitted by Steven Gould, with PLDR Law, the local firm representing Balico. The turbines would be gas-powered, tapping into the Mountain Valley Pipeline that runs through the property. In fact, that natural gas pipeline is one of the major reasons this site was selected. After a series of community meetings that featured dozens of speakers against the project, the board of supervisors signaled they would vote down such a proposal. In early November, Balico scuttled those plans and said it would regroup and come back with another version. Recommendation County staff recommends denial of the project, according to the summary. With each application, staff weighs varying issues and submits a suggestion to approve or deny a project. The planning commission will then vote on the official recommendation. The commission holds no power to approve or deny it. Instead, that rests in this case with the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors, which is set to hear the proposal during its February meeting. Ballico has met with county and state agencies, including community development, public works, public safety, administration and the Virginia Department of Transportation. County staff needs more engineering and information to determine the actual water needs and required infrastructure improvements for the project. Water is critical as a cooling agent for power-hungry data centers. While some water is available from the town of Chatham, theres an agreement in place with the town of Hurt for water. For the Hurt area, an agreement to pipe water to the site would bring millions of dollars of investment from Balico to the northernmost town in the county. We have an agreement with the town of Hurt, Ali said last month of a water treatment facility thats not functional but has a withdrawal permit. What we are looking to doing is bringing the water up by pipe, paying for it and then allowing other communities along the route to also benefit, he said of the plans with Hurt. However, that agreement would involve running a waterline along U.S. 29. At the time of this staff summary, the applicant has not received permission from VDOT to place a proposed waterline within the US Highway 29 right-of-way, the agenda summary states. Because this is a limited access right-of-way, permission must be granted from the Commissioner and is not guaranteed. County staff members also have worries surrounding buffering, setbacks, noise, light pollution, construction traffic, and decommissioning relating to this project. There have been draft proffers essentially legal-binding agreements submitted, however, Staff does not feel that all adverse effects have been mitigated by the proffers to date. In the Hurt meeting, the reaction to the project was mixed and mainly centered on where a person lived. Residents in Hurt were more in favor of it since it would be a boon for the town. Other county residents view it as a way to bring in more money. Ali said then he wants the 60,000 residents who live in Pittsylvania to understand that its a countywide project. He estimates the tax benefits alone to be nearly $100 million a year. Thats because data centers are taxed on the high-tech and pricey equipment used. As technology grows with the proliferation of artificial intelligence, the costs also expand, he said. When asked about the continued opposition, Ali said he wanted to lay out the facts that he said far outweigh any potential negative from the project. Opposition A group, Concerned Citizens Chalk Level, is a vocal opponent of the plans. Johnny Hunt is one of those residents. He was raised about a mile from where he now lives on Chalk Level Road, according to a statement from the group. He came back to Pittsylvania County to farm after he attended Virginia Tech and completed an internship in Richmond. The Balico project will be directly across the road from my property, Hunt said in a statement, explaining the most scenic part of his 325-acre land on Payneton Road. The proposed project will have three data centers directly across the road, visible from the road and my property, he said. This will impact the aesthetics of my property, cause noise and light pollution to my residence and it will cause a loss of income. Mill Creek Community Church, which is located on Chalk Level Road, also would be impacted by the data center and power projects, members of the congregations have voiced in previous meetings. The Rev. Darrell Campbell, the pastor of Mill Creek, agrees, saying the buildings would surround the church. Balico will affect our congregation in a number of ways, he explained in a statement. The constant noise will affect our weekly services, including even our graveside services. The planning commission meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday in the board meeting room located at 39 Bank St. in Chatham. About Struggling with inconsistent service quality and long response times? Variability is a real problem for CX, and its driving your customers away. Customers need consistency like an orchestra needs rhythmmiss a beat, and all harmony is lost. NICEs analysis of billions of conversations across thousands of organizationsranging from startups to industry giants, new adopters of CXone to seasoned usersreveals key insights, including: Happy customers drive exceptional business growth - and stock performance Agents are your best brand ambassadors for customer satisfaction Positive agent soft-skills significantly boost customer sentiment Customer sentiment soars with unified AI-hyper platform adoption The stakes of CX are higher than ever, yet most customer interactions with an agent are highly inefficient Get deeper insights into each of these key points. Download the full guide The decision of Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski is "pathetic and childish", Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said according to a ministry statement on Friday, commenting on Sikorski's decision to declare the Hungarian ambassador to Poland persona non grata at the opening event of Poland's EU presidency. Sikorski sent a diplomatic note to the ambassador on Friday, saying he was "not welcome" at the event. Earlier on Friday, Polish deputy minister Magdalena Sobkowiak-Czarnecka told Polish public media that the ban was linked to Hungary's decision to grant asylum to Marcin Romanowski, a former Polish deputy justice minister. Socialists: Orban's policies go against European values Prime Minister Viktor Orban's policies go against European values, the opposition Socialists said on Friday, and called on the Hungarian government to respect democratic principles. The fact that Hungary's ambassador to Poland was not invited to the opening ceremony of Poland's European Union presidency was a clear rejection of the Hungarian government's policies, the party said. The party said that the decision was linked to Hungary having offered political asylum to former Polish Deputy Justice Minister Marcin Romanowski who is currently a subject of a procedure on suspicion of corruption in his home country. It added that Magdalena Sobkowiak-Czarnecka, the deputy minister in charge of EU affairs had said that Hungary's decision violated the principles of European solidarity and rule of law. The Socialists said the incident was another example of how the government of Prime Minister Viktor Orban was undermining common EU values and cooperation between member states. Source: MTI - The Hungarian News Agency, founded in 1881. ********************************* You're very welcome to comment, discuss and enjoy more stories via our Facebook page: Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoops groups: Budapest Expats / Expats Hungary You can subscribe to our newsletter here: XpatLoop.com/Newsletters Do you want your business to reach tens of thousands of potential high-value expat customers? Then just contact us here. Katy Perry returns to Budapest after 15 years. Katy Perry is one of the best-selling artist of all time, with unforgettable pop hits like I Kissed a Girl, Hot N' Cold, Dark Horse, Roar and Firework. The music video for the Firework was filmed in Budapest with her Hungarian fans. Now, after 15 years, Katy Perry returns to Budapest with her spectacular new tour, The Lifetimes, on 27 October 2025, at the MVM Dome. Today, one the best-selling music artists of all time, Katy Perry announces The Lifetimes Tour is coming to Europe in 2025 autumn - a spectacular career-spanning run of live shows, including all the hits from across her multi-million selling albums. With a cumulative 115 billion streams alongside worldwide sales of over 70 million adjusted albums and 143 million tracks, Katy Perry is one of the best-selling musical artists of all time. She is one of only twelve artists in history to have surpassed 100 million certified units. With The Lifetimes Tour, Katy announces an exciting new era in her record-breaking pop career, that fans will not want to miss! Source and tickets: Livenation.hu Peter Magyar, the leader of opposition Tisza, has called on President Tamas Sulyok to resign his office. In a statement sent to MTI late on Saturday, Magyar said the president's reaction to his earlier call for a "real presidential address on the state of the nation" had been no more than "evasive personal insults". According to the opposition leader it is "sad" that Sulyok was elected president "with no scientific or political achievements" and suggested that the president's "decade-long good relations" to the father of the minister heading the Prime Minister's Office had helped him to the post of Constitutional Court chief, his previous position. Magyar said that the president's activities were "close to nil" adding that "two out of three Hungarians do not even know who he is." He insisted that while "every third Hungarian lives below the poverty line ... public services are disintegrating, health care is in a crisis, and the economy is plummeting, the president keeps a cynical silence." While the president "fails to seek unity within the nation and neglects controls over a democratic state order ... he behaves as a party stalwart of (ruling) Fidesz," Magyar said. Sulyok: 'Everything in its proper place' - response to Peter Magyar President Tamas Sulyok called out opposition Tisza Party leader Peter Magyar for trying to "lecture" him on legal matters and the obligations of his position in a post on social media with the title "Everything in its proper place" on Saturday. Responding to a statement by Magyar calling for "a real presidential speech" addressing the state of Hungary, Sulyok said the opposition party leader had repeatedly accused him of "being in arrears" in promoting the nation's interests and had sought to support that claim with "petty lies". Sulyok warned against "illegitimate political agitation in a primitively arrogant manner" and suggested a closer reading of the constitution "that might even help one become a responsible politician". MTI Stock Photo - for illustrative purposes only Source: MTI - The Hungarian News Agency, founded in 1881. ********************************* You're very welcome to comment, discuss and enjoy more stories via our Facebook page: Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoops groups: Budapest Expats / Expats Hungary You can subscribe to our newsletter here: XpatLoop.com/Newsletters Do you want your business to reach tens of thousands of potential high-value expat customers? Then just contact us here. The opposition Democratic Coalition (DK) has called for parliament to be disbanded and early elections to be called. DK leader Ferenc Gyurcsany told a press conference on Friday that the party was preparing to adopt a parliamentary proposal on the matter. "The country is in far too bad a shape to wait another 15-16 months" until the general elections scheduled for the spring of 2026, Gyurcsany said, adding that the government "is clearly incapable of handling the crisis it has practically created." Think-tank: Early election not on the cards The idea of holding an early election in Hungary has no viable political or social basis, an analyst of the Centre for Fundamental Rights told public radio in an interview on Friday. Levente Szikra noted that opposition Tisza Party leader Peter Magyar had compared the current state of affairs to the situation after former prime minister Ferenc Gyurcsany made his infamous 2006 Oszod speech, in which he admitted that the government had "lied day and night". Fidesz, in opposition at the time, demanded an early election, he further noted, adding that Hungary had been mired in a "moral crisis" and the Socialist government had failed to deliver on its promises. But the situation now, he said, bore no comparison to what the country faced under Gyurcsany. Szikra said the incumbent Fidesz government enjoyed a strong mandate, insisting for example that the Fidesz-Christian-Democrats had won last year's European Parliament election "by a landslide". Szikra said early elections were a normal part of European democratic politics when a political crisis emerged and the legitimacy of the government and its social support evaporated. "But this isn't something that can be said of Hungary," he said. Magyar: Tisza Party 'switching to campaign mode' Tisza Party leader Peter Magyar has declared the second half of April as a "realistic" target period to hold an early general election, saying that the opposition party will switch to "campaign mode" from Jan 6. In a statement on Thursday, Magyar said the number of unique views of his New Year's speech had reached 2 million. "Tisza's message has reached the vast majority of our compatriots," he added in the statement. If Prime Minister Viktor Orban did not balk at the initiative, then an early elections "could realistically take place in the second half of April," the statement said. He said Tisza was stepping up the process of selecting 106 individual parliamentary candidates and finalising the party's governing manifesto. "The stakes are huge for the future of our families and our country," he said, appealing to supporters to "contribute financially, as volunteers and as experts, according to their capabilities..." Magyar also said his party would "represent every Hungarian as equals, regardless of origin or party affiliation", adding that: "The homeland comes first." Source: MTI - The Hungarian News Agency, founded in 1881. ********************************* You're very welcome to comment, discuss and enjoy more stories via our Facebook page: Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoops groups: Budapest Expats / Expats Hungary You can subscribe to our newsletter here: XpatLoop.com/Newsletters Do you want your business to reach tens of thousands of potential high-value expat customers? Then just contact us here. Three Nigerian men were questioned for the crime of drug trafficking, then taken into custody and their arrest initiated, the Budapest Police Headquarters (BRFK) announced recently. Budapest police also witnessed three drug deals before arresting a Nigerian man who sold drugs to three customers in District 7 in December. After the transactions were completed, the Budapest police arrested and detained the dealer and his customers. Proceedings were opened against the customers for drug possession. BRFK investigators searched the drug dealer's apartment in District VIII and arrested two of the man's associates, also from Nigeria. In addition, they found more than four kilograms of green plant debris suspected of being drugs, almost 175 grams of white powder, and nearly 3.3 million forints and the equivalent of 740 thousand forints in euros. It was reported that the police found the white powder in so-called "swallow" capsules, in which the drug is usually smuggled through the stomach. According to available police information, the three African men were distributing drugs from abroad in and around Wesselenyi Street, the party district of Budapest, and their arrest was preceded by coordinated police actions. One of them tried to flush some of the drugs down the toilet in the apartment. When the three Nigerian men handed over the documents they had to investigators, it turned out that all three documents contained the same personal information; they had the same name and were born at the same time. Source: MTI - The Hungarian News Agency, founded in 1881. On Saturday, January 11, the Transparent Sound New Music Festival will kick off with over twenty programs under a collective theme, with the title Polychrome, for almost a month in several Budapest venues, the organizers announced. This year, programs will take place at the Budapest Music Center, the Liszt Academy, the House of Music Hungary, Trafo, Fuga, Nador Hall, Mucsarnok, OMA and, as a new venue, ISON. The festival opens on January 11 at the Liszt Academy with a music-theater performance by the Dutch Ensemble Trapeze, in which composer Georgi Stoyanov will use Prokofievs works and correspondence to trace a lost ballet. The festival will feature well-known European ensembles. The Luxembourg-German Kollektiv Unruhe will perform at the Nador Hall on January 17, while the Austrian NAMES, the New Art and Music Ensemble Salzburg, will perform at the Trafo on January 18. On January 28, the BMC Opus Jazz Club will host The Tunnel concert with Romanian musician Emil Gherasim Fluidian, Tibor Szemzo and Laszlo Goz. The House of Music Hungary will host a joint concert by the German trumpet ensemble The Monochrome Project and the Hungarian percussion trio Trio Dakoda on January 30, following the curatorial and compositional work of Marton Illes. Fuga will host a concert by EnsembleSpectrum from Slovakia on January 31. The festival will also host the premiere of Submersus, a work for piano by Judit Varga, a Hungarian composer based in Vienna, on February 1 at the BMC Hungarian Music Information Center and Library. The same venue will also host the Metaxu co-artistic production on January 16, with music by Andrea Szigetvaris ensemble. The festival events will be accompanied by interactive activities, too. Zsofia Remes will lead a composition course for children at ISON on January 26, while curator Marcell Dargays film club Transparent Sound will be held three times at the BMC Hungarian Music Information Center and Library on January 13, 20 and 27. The new gallery of the OMA (Open Music Archive) will also open as part of the festival. The first Transparent Sound New Music Festival was launched by Hungarian composers Balazs Horvath and Samu Gryllus in January 2014. Its primary aim was to present the most innovative musical trends of our time across the broadest possible spectrum, where audiences can participate in interactive demonstrations before or during concerts, thus helping them to understand new compositional ideas. More: atlatszohang.hu/en/home-en/ Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 Details: The second edition of the Bharat Mobility Global Expo is set to bring the entire automobile industry under one umbrella. In its second year, Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 will encompass several shows such as the Auto Expo, Tyre Show, Battery Show, Mobility Tech, Steel Innovation, and the India Cycle Show. Here are the key details of the event one should know. Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025: Dates & Tickets Attending the Bharat Mobility Expo is completely free. To register, visit www.bharat-mobility.com, go to the Visitor Registration section, and fill in your details. Public access is open from January 19 to 22, 2025, while special access for media is on January 17, and for both dealers and media on January 18.s Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025: Venues The event will be hosted at three venues: Bharat Mandapam in Pragati Maidan, Yashobhoomi in Dwarka, and the India Expo Centre & Mart in Greater Noida. All these places are reachable by public transport (Metro, buses and cabs etc) and personal vehicles. Bharat Mandapam (Pragati Maidan) Auto Expo, Tyre Show, Battery Show, Mobility Tech, Steel Innovation, and India Cycle Show will be hosted at Bharat Mandapam (Pragati Maidan). Yashobhoomi (Dwarka) The Auto Expo Components Show 2025 will be hosted at Yashobhoomi (Dwarka) from 18th to 21st January 2025. India Expo Centre & Mart (Greater Noida) The Bharat Construction Equipment Show and Urban Mobility & Infrastructure Show (UMIS) will be hosted at the India Expo Centre & Mart (Greater Noida) between 19th to 22nd January 2025. Expected Car Launches According to media reports, as many as 14 automakers, including BMW, Porsche, Maruti, Hyundai, Tata Motors, and JSW MG Motor India, are part of the 2025 Bharat Mobility Global Expo and planning to showcase several models at the event. Expected key launches/unveils include the Maruti e Vitara, Hyundai Creta EV, Tata Harrier EV, MG Cyberster, and Skoda Superb. A significant shift in eastern Congos territorial control has emerged as M23 rebels seized the strategic town of Masisi, marking a crucial advance toward the provincial capital of Goma. The capture of this administrative center, located approximately 80 kilometers from Goma, represents a major development in the ongoing regional conflict. The rebel groups territorial expansion continues despite existing ceasefire agreements, undermining regional peace efforts. This advancement has forced the suspension of humanitarian operations in the area, with aid organizations reporting widespread disruption of essential services and business activities. Local staff members find themselves trapped in the seized territory, anxious about potential military counteroffensives. The situation has broader diplomatic implications, as evidenced by the postponement of a high-level meeting between regional leaders that had aimed to address the escalating crisis. The conflict has already resulted in the displacement of more than 1.9 million people, highlighting the severe humanitarian impact of the ongoing hostilities. The renewed insurgency, which began in 2022, has complicated regional relations and raised concerns about stability in the Great Lakes region. The conflict has been characterized by accusations of cross-border support and defensive interventions, adding layers of complexity to peace-building efforts. As the situation develops, the focus remains on restoring governmental authority and addressing the humanitarian crisis affecting millions of civilians in the region. Makar Sankranti, one of the most significant Hindu festivals, celebrates the Suns transition into Capricorn (Makara) and marks the start of longer days. Rooted deeply in Indian culture, this event honours the Sun God and symbolizes renewal, prosperity, and spiritual growth. In 2025, Makar Sankranti will be celebrated on Tuesday, January 14, with auspicious Muhurta timings guiding the observances. Makar Sankranti 2025: Date and Time Makar Sankranti on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 Punya Kaal Muhurta: 09:03 AM to 06:04 PM (Duration: 9 hours) Maha Punya Kaal Muhurta: 09:03 AM to 10:57 AM (Duration: 1 hour, 54 minutes) Makara Sankranti Moment: 09:03 AM, January 14, 2025 Punya Kaal and Maha Punya Kaal are highly auspicious periods for spiritual practices, charitable acts, and performing religious rites. The Significance of Makar Sankranti Makar Sankranti heralds the harvest season and honours Lord Surya (the Sun God) for nurturing life on Earth. The festival represents the victory of light over darkness and symbolizes new beginnings, prosperity, and gratitude. It is an ideal time to embark on fresh ventures and spiritual practices. Diverse Regional Names and Celebrations Makar Sankranti is celebrated across India with unique traditions: Tamil Nadu: Known as Pongal, it involves cooking a sweet dish to thank nature and the Sun. Gujarat and Rajasthan: Called Uttarayana, where kite flying fills the skies with vibrant colours. Punjab and Haryana: Known as Maghi, people take ritualistic dips in rivers and enjoy sweets like jaggery and kheer. Rituals Observed During Makar Sankranti The festival is marked by various spiritual and social customs: Holy Dips in Rivers: Bathing in sacred rivers like the Ganga and Yamuna is believed to purify the soul. Offering Naivedhya: Devotees prepare special dishes and offer them to Lord Surya. Charitable Acts: Donating food, clothes, and money during Punya Kaal brings blessings. Ancestor Rituals: Performing Shraddha rites honours forefathers. Breaking Fasts (Parana): Many observe fasts and end them during auspicious Muhurta. Regional Variations in Festivities Each state adds its cultural flair: Maharashtra: People exchange sesame and jaggery sweets, symbolizing unity and harmony. West Bengal: The famous Ganga Sagar Mela draws pilgrims to the confluence of the Ganga and Bay of Bengal. South India: Families celebrate Pongal with intricate kolam designs and feasts. Gujarat: Kite flying during Uttarayana brings communities together in joy. Makar Sankranti is a celebration of faith, gratitude, and unity. Its traditions promote kindness, joy, and reverence for natures cycles. Whether you observe it as Pongal, Uttarayana, or Maghi, the festivals spirit unites diverse cultures in honouring the Suns life-giving power. May Makar Sankranti 2025 fill your life with prosperity, warmth, and happiness! New Delhi: A blogpost written by an Indian-origin entrepreneur has gained a lot of traction in the social media for the openness that the latter has shown in expressing his state of affairs. Vinay Hiremath, the co-founder of Loom, wrote about struggling with his current situation after he sold his start-up for a whopping $975 Million. He expressed that he was definitely "rich" but had no idea what to do with his life. "Life has been a haze this last year. After selling my company, I find myself in the totally un-relatable position of never having to work again. Everything feels like a side quest, but not in an inspiring way. I dont have the same base desires driving me to make money or gain status. I have infinite freedom, yet I dont know what to do with it, and, honestly, Im not the most optimistic about life," Hiremath wrote. "I know. This is a completely zeroth-world position to be in. The point of this post isnt to brag or gain sympathy. To be honest, I dont exactly know what the point of this post is. I tried to manufacture one, but I just felt like a phony. Then I recognized the irony of creating purpose out of a blog post when I dont currently have much conviction or purpose in life," he added. Hiremath mentioned that he was being offered with a $60 million pay package as the CTO by the company that had acquired his start-up, but he still denied the hefty package. "Last March I had no idea what to do with my life. I knew that staying at the acquiring company was not it for me for the big company reasons you might suspect (lots of politics, things moved slowly, NPC coworkers, etc.), but I found it very hard to give up a $60m pay package. I had already made more money than I knew what to do with, but your mind does funny things when you start to consider numbers like this," he wrote. Hiremath also acknowledged the support and love that his (ex) girlfriend had given, but they had to eventually break up for his own insecurities. He wrote, "After deciding to not start a robotics company, I found myself rudderless. No sense of direction. I traveled to many beautiful places with my loving and supportive (ex) girlfriend...I have only started to realize that, when Loom was in its early innings, I felt very secure with my position in life, and lots of this stemmed from an extreme gratitude for the journey I was on...If my ex is reading this. Thank you for everything. I am sorry I couldnt be what you needed me to be." Hiremath's blog however was not all about despair, the concluding lines had hope and dreams. He ended up saying, "So now Im in Hawaii. Im learning physics. Why? The reason I tell myself is to build up my first principles foundation so I can start a company that manufactures real world things. It seems plausible, but Im learning to just accept that I am happy learning physics. Thats the goal in and of itself. If it leads to nothing, thats ok. If this means Ill never do something as spectacular as Loom, so be it. Its been too long since Ive been completely raw and real with myself, so Im applying a healthy dose of humility to everything I say and do. Its the only thing that feels authentic." Tablespace Amit Banerji: Amit Banerji, co-founder of managed workspace operator Table Space, passed away on Monday morning due to a heart attack at the age of 44. In a statement, the company expressed its profound grief over his untimely demise, acknowledging his pivotal role in transforming Table Space into a major player in the managed workspace industry. The statement highlighted Banerjis lasting impact on the industry and described his presence as irreplaceable. Banerji was instrumental in building Table Space alongside seven co-founders, including Vice-Chairman and Chief Investment Officer Karan Chopra, President Kunal Mehra, Chief Strategy Officer Srinivas Prasad, COO Krishnaswamy Nagarajan, and Table Space Constructions CEO Anurag Tyagi. Who Was Amit Banerji? Amit Banerji, based in Bengaluru, was the founder and CEO of Table Space, a managed workspace company he co-founded in September 2017. Over the past 7.5 years, he played a key role in steering the startup's growth and success, as detailed in his LinkedIn profile. Before founding Table Space, Banerji served as Managing Director of Corporate Real Estate at Accenture for over 13 years. His expertise spanned negotiations, business planning, asset management, real estate economics, and transactions. Amit Banerji Education Banerji earned a B.Tech degree in Computer Science from Punjab Technical University after completing his schooling at Gyan Bharati. His strong educational foundation contributed to his achievements in the corporate and real estate sectors. Amit Banerji Net Worth As of the last funding round on August 17, 2024, Banerji owned approximately 21.55 per cent of Table Space, according to data from research agency Tracxn. With the company's post-money valuation at Rs 3,162.1 crore, his unrealized share was estimated at Rs 866.8 crore, with an additional Rs 90 crore already realized from his total holdings. Too Soon to Say Goodbye Banerji's untimely demise is a somber reminder of the growing list of startup founders and investors who have left us too soon. This includes the recent passing of Epigamia co-founder Rohan Mirchandani, who died at the age of 42 last year. Rohan Malhotra, co-founder of Good Capital, who passed away at 44 last year. Adding further, Pepperfry co-founder Ambareesh Murty, who died in 2023 at the age of 51. Their contributions to their respective industries remain significant, even as their early departures leave a void in the entrepreneurial landscape. AP SBTET Results 2024: The State Board of Technical Education and Training (SBTET), Andhra Pradesh, has released the results for the Diploma and Pharmacy exams held in October/November 2024. The result will include key details like the student's name, hall ticket number, course, scheme code (e.g., C23, C20), semester, subject codes and names, marks in each subject, total marks, maximum marks, result status (Pass/Fail), grade or percentage, date of birth, college name, and exam center. The results for Diploma C16, C20, and Pharmacy ER-91, ER-2020 exams held in October/November 2024 are now available on the official website apsbtet.ap.gov.in. These exams were conducted for regular and backlog students in C23, C20, C16, C14, C09, and ER-91 Pharmacy, as well as odd semester exams for C20, C16, ER-91, and ER-2020. AP SBTET Results 2024: Steps to download here Visit the official website: sbtet.ap.gov.in/APSBTET/. Click on the result link for your course, such as Diploma C16, C20 ON-2024 Results, Pharmacy ON-2024 Results, or Diploma C23 ON-2024 Results, as needed. Enter your pin number and choose the semester from the dropdown menu. Submit the details to view your result on the next page. The AP SBTET Diploma exams for C23, C20, and C16 schemes (1st Year and 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th Semesters) were conducted in October and November 2024. For any questions about the exam, students can call 7901620552. For technical issues, they can contact 7032134560. Both helplines are available from 10 AM to 5:30 PM on working days. Students can also email their concerns to apsbtet.helpdesk@gmail.com. XAT Answer Key 2025: The Xavier School of Management (XLRI) will soon release the Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2025 answer key on its official website, xatonline.in. Candidates who took the exam can download the answer key once it is available. The XAT 2025 exam was conducted on January 5, 2025, from 2 PM to 5 PM, lasting three hours. This exam is for candidates seeking admission to management programs. It consists of four sections divided into two parts, with a total of 95 questions. Candidates will earn one mark for each correct answer, while 0.25 marks will be deducted for every incorrect answer. The answer key will help candidates estimate their probable scores. The XAT 2025 cut-offs will be announced in February 2025 after the results are declared. The XAT 2025 exam will be held for three hours, from 2 PM to 5 PM. It is conducted for candidates seeking admission to management programs. The exam will have four sections divided into two parts, with a total of 95 questions. Candidates will get one mark for each correct answer, and 0.25 marks will be deducted for every wrong answer. Candidates can use the XAT 2025 answer key to estimate their scores. The cut-offs for XAT 2025 will be announced in February 2025 after the results are declared. XAT Answer Key 2025: Steps to download here Go to the official website i.e. xatonline.in. On the homepage, click on the "Answer Key" link. Enter your XAT registration number and date of birth. Submit your details to view the answer key. Download the answer key and save it for future use. XAT Answer Key 2025: Selection Process XLRI will shortlist candidates for the next stage of the selection process based on the XAT 2025 cut-off scores. The cut-offs will vary for engineering and non-engineering backgrounds, as well as for male and female candidates. Shortlisted candidates will need to participate in a Group Discussion (GD), depending on the specific program and college. They will also take part in a Personal Interview (PI), which will evaluate their aptitude, communication skills, personality, and suitability for the program. The final selection for XAT 2025 will be based on a composite score, which includes the XAT score, performance in the GD and PI, academic background, and work experience (if any). Candidates who are selected will receive admission offers and must confirm their acceptance by paying the required fees. In a heart-wrenching incident in RMV 2nd Stage, Bengaluru, a techie and his wife were found dead along with their two children in what police suspect to be a murder-suicide pact. The tragedy occurred within the jurisdiction of Sadashivanagar Police Station, Karnataka, late Sunday night, with their bodies discovered on Monday morning. The deceased have been identified as 38-year-old Anup Kumar, his 35-year-old wife Rakhi, and their children, 5-year-old daughter Anupriya and 2-year-old son Priyansh. According to police reports, Anup Kumar worked as a software consultant for a private firm in Bengaluru. The family originally hailed from Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. A Harrowing Discovery The grim sequence of events came to light when the family's house help arrived on Monday morning. Despite repeated doorbell rings, no one answered. Concerned, the house help sought the assistance of neighbors, who then contacted the police. Upon breaking into the apartment, authorities discovered the lifeless bodies of the couple and their children. According to news agency IANS, the initial investigation suggests that Anup and Rakhi poisoned their children before hanging themselves. However, no suicide note was recovered from the scene. The cause behind this extreme action remains unclear, though preliminary findings indicate that caring for their elder daughter, Anupriya, who had special needs, might have been a significant source of distress. Unanswered Questions and Ongoing Investigation Despite these tragic circumstances, there had been no apparent signs of stress or depression within the family. In fact, they had reportedly made plans for a trip to Puducherry. The packing was completed on Sunday, police said, quoting the house help. The family employed three individuals, including two cooks and one caregiver for their children, each earning Rs 15,000 per month. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) Shekhar H Tekkannavar confirmed that the relatives of Anup Kumar have been notified, and a case has been registered. The investigation remains active as authorities piece together the factors leading to this devastating loss of life. More details are expected as forensic reports and witness statements are analyzed. (Discussions on suicides can be triggering for some. But suicides are preventable. If you are looking for help, some suicide prevention helpline numbers in India are 011-40769002 from Sanjivini (Delhi-based, 10 am - 5.30 pm) and 044-24640050 from Sneha Foundation (Chennai-based, 8 am - 10 pm), +91 9999666555 from Vandrevala Foundation (Mumbai-based, 24x7). Patna: The Indian government has granted citizenship to Sumitra Prasad alias Rani Saha, a woman who had been living in Bihar's Ara city for 40 years. This marks the first instance in Bihar of citizenship being granted under the provisions of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and related rules. Sumitra, who resides on Chitra Toli Road in Ara and runs a grocery shop, has been living in India on a visa since 1985. Her journey to citizenship has been long and challenging, involving numerous visits to police stations and embassies over the decades. Her citizenship was finally approved under the State Level Empowered Committee as per sub-rule (1) of Rule 11A of the Citizenship Rules, 2009, and Rule 13A. Sumitra's life story is deeply intertwined with historical events. At the age of five in 1970, she left for her aunt's home in what was then undivided Pakistan (East Pakistan, later Bangladesh). She completed her education there, but the geopolitical landscape changed after Bangladesh's independence on December 16, 1971. In January 1985, Sumitra returned to India and reunited with her family in the Katihar district of Bihar. Soon after, on March 10, 1985, she married Parmeshwar Prasad and settled in Ara. She has since raised her family there, having three daughters: Priyanka, Priyadarshini, and Aishwarya. Unfortunately, in 2010, her husband passed away due to bone cancer, leaving her as the sole breadwinner for her family. Expressing her gratitude to Prime Minister Modi's government, Sumitra said: "When I was five years old, I went to my aunt's house in Bangladesh. By the time I returned to India in 1985, Bangladesh had been established as a separate nation. I have lived here ever since, but only now have I received citizenship. I am thankful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian government for it." Sumitra's journey to Indian citizenship has been marked by decades of struggle, uncertainty, and resilience. Living on a visa for more than 40 years in Ara, Bihar, she endured constant challenges, from bureaucratic hurdles to societal pressures, before finally being granted Indian citizenship under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Sumitra revealed the relentless difficulties she faced while living on a visa. She had to navigate complex and time-consuming procedures every year, frequently visiting police stations and embassies. Local residents often threatened her with deportation to Bangladesh, and she was repeatedly warned about potential jail time. In 2023, delays in renewing her visa led to her being called to the Arah town police station and asked to return to Bangladesh. For the past three visa renewals, Sumitra had to travel to Kolkata, which added to her burden. In 2024, while applying for her visa extension in Kolkata, Sumitra and her family were informed about the provisions of the CAA. Her youngest daughter, Aishwarya Prasad, took the initiative to begin the application process in October 2024. Despite the family's prolonged struggles, Aishwarya remained determined and completed the process, securing citizenship for her mother. Sumitra's late husband, Parmeshwar Prasad, ran a home appliance shop in Ara to support their family. Following his death in 2010, the family's struggles intensified. Of Sumitra's three daughters -- two are married, while the youngest, Aishwarya, currently takes care of her. Sumitra was unable to access basic government services such as an Aadhaar card, ration card or gas connection due to her visa status. The family is elated with the citizenship approval. Aishwarya expressed relief, saying: "My mother was deprived of all government facilities for so many years. Now, we can finally prepare all her documents and access benefits like Aadhaar, ration cards, and gas connections. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the lack of a visa extension caused immense worry, but this citizenship has brought us relief." The key suspect in the murder of Mukesh Chandrakar, an independent journalist whose body was discovered in a septic tank in Chhattisgarh, has been apprehended in Hyderabad. Suresh Chandrakar, a distant relative of the victim and a contractor, was arrested on Sunday night after being on the run since the murder was discovered. The police believe Suresh is the mastermind behind the tragic incident, and he was found hiding at his driver's residence in Hyderabad. Police Investigation and Arrests According to the reports by NDTV, the police had been tracking Suresh's whereabouts by reviewing footage from over 200 CCTV cameras and analyzing nearly 300 mobile numbers. These efforts led to his capture in the southern city of Hyderabad. Following his arrest, the authorities began questioning Suresh in relation to the murder, which has shocked the local community. In an earlier development, the police froze four of Suresh's bank accounts and demolished an illegally constructed yard linked to him as part of the ongoing investigation. Additionally, Chandrakars wife has been taken into custody and is currently being interrogated by the police in Kanker district, Chhattisgarh. Discovery of the Body Mukesh Chandrakar, a journalist and a contributing reporter for NDTV, went missing on New Year's Day after leaving his home in Bijapurs Pujari Para. His brother, Yukesh Chandrakar, filed a missing person's report the following day when Mukesh did not return. Days later, the police discovered Mukesh's body in a septic tank located in a shed owned by a contractor in the Chhattisgarh regions Bastar division, not far from his home in Chhatan Para Basti. An autopsy revealed that the 32-year-old journalist had been brutally attacked with a hard object, causing severe injuries to his head, chest, back, and stomach. His body was identified through a distinctive tattoo on his hand. According to preliminary investigations, the murder occurred after a heated argument during a dinner between Mukesh and his cousin, Ritesh Chandrakar, and supervisor Mahendra Ramteke. The argument escalated, leading to the attack with an iron rod, which killed Mukesh on the spot. To cover up the crime, the two perpetrators hid his body in the septic tank and sealed it with cement. They also disposed of Mukesh's phone and the murder weapon. Dinesh Chandrakar, another relative, is alleged to have supervised the cementing process of the septic tank. Authorities believe that Suresh Chandrakar orchestrated the murder, making him the primary suspect in the case. In connection with the murder, three other individuals have been arrested. Ritesh Chandrakar, the cousin of the deceased, was apprehended at Raipur airport on Saturday. Mahendra Ramteke and Dinesh Chandrakar were taken into custody in Bijapur. The investigation into the motive behind the murder continues. The Editors Guild of India and the Press Association have strongly criticized the murder, urging the Chhattisgarh government to act swiftly and ensure the safety of journalists. The Editors Guild emphasized the importance of protecting journalists, particularly those working in smaller towns and rural areas, where they often face increased risks. The Guild called on authorities to guarantee the safety of journalists and to thoroughly investigate the case to bring the guilty to justice. MUMBAI: Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday exhorted industrialists not to hire illegal Bangladeshi migrants in their units for "cheap labour". Addressing a press conference here after meeting slew of industrial leaders from corporate houses including the Tatas, Adani Group and Mahindras, Sarma said there is a need to "strike at the roots" of the illegal migration from Bangladesh problem by not hiring such migrants. He explained that there are middlemen hired by the industry to get cheap labour from Bangladesh, and the industry has to decide not to employ such labour. When asked if the issue featured during his discussions with industry captains over the weekend, Sarma said there is no need to "remphasise" an issue on which Assam has been fighting since 1979. The state is looking at investment commitments of Rs 1 lakh crore from the central government and entities allied with it at the upcoming "Advantage Assam 2.0" investment summit to be held in Guwahati in February. Attracting investments in sectors such as tourism, semiconductors and defence is the other focus area of the summit to be held on February 25-26. He said the Tata group's mega Rs 27,000-crore investment for a semiconductor assembly plant is on schedule, and the first phase will be inaugurated in either November or December this year. Apart from that, the Tatas have also evinced interest to set up a 500-MW solar capacity in the state, he said, adding that an industrial policy is in the works where fallow land being held by tea estates can be converted to put solar power capacity. Sarma said given the state's proximity to the northeastern theatre which sees maximum deployment of Army, the state is also looking to attract investments into defence production and repair. This aspect has featured during his interactions with the Adani group and Mahindras, Sarma added. With only a week to go for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Uttar Pradeshs Prayagraj, the emergence of Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in India is sparking fear among people. The Maha Kumbh celebration is expected to attract around 450 million devotees. The concerns pertaining to the massive gathering for this religious event mounted after eight fresh cases of the virus were reported across different states in India. So far, cases of HMPV have been reported from cities like Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Chennai, and Kolkata, and the tally of cases is expected to rise in the coming days. In todays episode of DNA, ZEE News analyzed and explained the possible impact of HMPV on the Maha Kumbh event. People from various cities across India and around the world are going to arrive in Prayagraj for the grand religious event. Prayagraj is estimated to see 40 to 45 crore visitors during the Maha Kumbh, which will be held between January 13 and February 26. It is pertinent to see the distance of each city where virus cases have emerged from Prayagraj: Ahmedabad to Prayagraj: 1,277 km, Bengaluru to Prayagraj: 1,733 km, Chennai to Prayagraj: 1,762 km, Kolkata to Prayagraj: 793 km Watch Full Episode Here The Maha Kumbh is being celebrated after 12 years, and a huge turnout of devotees is expected in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26. The main bathing rituals, known as the Shahi Snan (royal baths), will take place on January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami). HMPV In India: Centre Reacts To Rising Virus Scare Union Health Minister JP Nadda said on Monday that the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not a new virus, and it was identified for the first time in 2001, and the virus has been circulating in the entire world for many years. With millions of devotees from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and West Bengal expected to come together at the grand event, the question arises: Could the virus spread to the Mahakumbh, posing a major health risk? The Union health ministry sought to assuage fears, asserting that it was well-equipped to handle any potential increase in respiratory illnesses. Briefing on the impact of HMPV, Nadda highlighted that it spreads through air, by way of respiration, and affects persons of all age groups. The virus spreads more during the winter and the early spring months, he added This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Investigators have developed a novel approach that can better identify and characterize genetic variant interactions associated with increased risk of Parkinson's disease, improving the understanding of the genetic heritability of the disease, according to a recent study published in Brain. "Exactly how variants at the genotype level work together to influence disease risk has been largely ignored. This is the first tool that helps identify and then characterize variant-variant interactions at a genome-wide level," said Bernabe Ignacio Bustos, Ph.D., a postdoctoral fellow in the laboratory of Dimitri Krainc, MD, Ph.D., the Aaron Montgomery Ward Professor and chair of the Ken and Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, and a co-first of the study. Parkinson's disease impacts more than six million people worldwide, according to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, and occurs when specific populations of neurons lose their ability to make dopamine, which impacts movement. Identifying genetic drivers of the disease has long been a priority of the field: several genes are currently known to cause Parkinson's disease, and 94 genetic risk variants have been identified from previous genome-wide association studies. Despite this progress, however, these studies have only been able to identify approximately one-third of genetic drivers of Parkinson's disease, Bustos said. "Most of what we know about the genetic factors identified from Parkinson's disease genome-wide association studies comes from studies that treat these factors as acting independently to increase Parkinson's disease risk," Bustos said. "These studies ignore the possibility that genetic variants may be working in combination with each other or interact with each other to modify a person's chance of getting the disease." According to Bustos, current genome-wide association studies do not have the large cohort sizes needed to reach the required statistical power to study variant-variant interactionsalso called epistasis, or when the expression of one gene is modified by the expression of one or more other genes. To address this gap, the investigators developed a genome-wide epistasis screening approach, called Variant-variant interaction through variable thresholds (VARI3), to analyze genetic variant interactions across the entire genome and determine how they contribute to Parkinson's disease risk. Genome wide distribution of SNP-SNP interactions observed across IPDGC GWAS discovery cohorts. Circos plot showing the 95 interactions obtained from VARI3 across chromosomes 1-22 from the IPDGC GWAS cohorts. Yellow links show non-significant interactions. Blue circles show 300x zoomed-in regions, containing red links depicting the 14 significant interactions after Bonferroni correction and their nearby gen. Credit: Alejandro Cisterna-Garcia et al "Instead of a hypothesis-driven approach focusing on only a small number of variants or genes, VARI3 allows the user to look at all variants across the genome. It does this by automating the selection of a primary set of variants based on high allele frequency and their association with disease risk and then tests the interaction of these primary variants against all variants across the entire genome. "Another feature that makes this pipeline unique is that it introduces a specialized tool, two-locus to odds ratio (TLTO), which allows us to interpret the risk associated with the different genotype combinations seen between two variants rather than just the single variants involved in the epistatic interaction," Bustos said. In the study, the investigators designed and used VARI3 with a combined dataset consisting of 14 patient cohorts of European ancestry in collaboration with members of the International Parkinson's Disease Genomics Consortium, and identified 14 genetic variant interactions associated with a significant increase in Parkinson's disease risk. Next, using four independent Parkinson's disease datasets, the investigators identified genotype combination risk profiles that are associated with overlapping genotype combination specific expression patterns. Further analysis also demonstrated that the epistatic effect on Parkinson's disease of those variants was observed in both patients with European ancestry and with Native American ancestry. "This is exciting as, not only are we seeing that variants do work together to increase Parkinson's disease risk, but we're also beginning to see that different genotype combinations within an epistatic association are influencing how genes are expressed," Bustos said. The findings demonstrate how genetic variants work both alone and together to influence Parkinson's disease risk, which may inform the development of novel therapeutic targets or biomarkers for determining disease risk. According to Bustos, his team aims to confirm their findings in a laboratory to understand exactly how these interactions impact cells and contribute to disease risk and how these genetic interactions affect people from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. "Our goal is to use this information to build a risk prediction tool that combine these genetic findings with other known risk factors, which could help physicians more accurately predict an individual's risk for Parkinson's disease and provide personalized advice or care," Bustos said. More information: Alejandro Cisterna-Garcia et al, Genome-wide epistasis analysis reveals significant epistatic signals associated with Parkinson's disease risk, Brain (2024). DOI: 10.1093/brain/awae398 Journal information: Brain HMPV Cases in India: The world was still recovering from the devastation of COVID-19 when a new virus from China, HMPV, created a stir globally. An eight-month-old baby in a hospital in Bengaluru has been diagnosed with the HMPV virus. After the COVID-19 pandemic, which shook the world, a virus named HMPV emerged in China. Now, the first case of this virus has been reported in India. An eight-month-old baby in a hospital in Bengaluru has been confirmed to have this virus. According to a report published in India Today, the first case of the HMPV virus has been detected in Bengaluru. An 8-month-old baby in a hospital in Bengaluru has been diagnosed with the HMPV virus. The health department stated that they had not tested the sample in their lab. The report of the case came from a private hospital, and there seems to be no reason to doubt the findings of this report. According to reports, HMPV virus has entered Kolkata! The affected child is five and a half months old. He was reportedly undergoing treatment at a private hospital. Two children have tested positive in Chennai for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and are currently undergoing treatment, a health official said on Monday. These two are the first cases to be reported from the city from two hospitals. Further details are awaited. Meanwhile, officials of the state health department held a meeting to discuss the measures to be taken to screen for HMPV and the precautions to be put in place to contain its spread. It is worth mentioning that HMPV is typically detected in children. Among all flu samples, 0.7% are found to be HMPV. The exact strain of this virus has not yet been identified. The first case of HMPV has been reported in Gujarat. The first case was detected in a private hospital in Ahmedabad, where a 2-month-old baby was found to be infected with HMPV. The baby exhibited symptoms of cold and fever associated with the HMPV virus. The child has shown improvement and is now recovering with treatment at the private hospital. The HMPV report from the private laboratory came back positive. The baby is from a family near Modasa. The child was brought to Ahmedabad when their condition worsened. Karnataka government on Monday assured that there was no cause for alarm over the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) as it is already present in the country. "I don't think we should be pressing the panic button, because HMPV is not a new virus, it already exists. Reports suggest that it is the first case of HMPV in India, it is not true because HMPV is an existing virus, and a certain percentage of people do get affected by this virus and it is not something new," state Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said. The Karnataka Health Department has not given any confirmation, but Department sources informed Zee news that they will send samples to Pune for finding out which varient of virus. Also the 8 month old child has no travel history to China. The HMPV virus detected in India is different. However, there is no clarity on whether the virus reported in China and the strain found here are related, we need to wait for confirmation before commenting a health source said. The Government of Karnataka, Department of Health and Family Services issued a press release following the reports of the HMPV virus in Bengaluru, outlining essential dos and don'ts to prevent the spread of infection. The release emphasized that there is no immediate cause for panic regarding the spread of HMPV. The Health Department of Karnataka is closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with the Director of NCDC, MOH & FW, GOI New Delhi. Take a look at Dos and Don'ts: Dos: 1. Cover your mouth and nose with handkerchief or tissue paper, when you cough or sneeze. 2. Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizer. 3. Avoid crowded places. 4. Stay away from public places if you have fever, cough and sneezing. 5. Adequate ventilation with outdoor air is recommended in all settings to reduce the transmission. 6. Stay at home and limit contact with others if you are sick. 7. Drink plenty of water and eat nutritious food. Don'ts 1. Reuse of tissue paper and handkerchief. 2. Close contact with sick people, sharing of towels, linen etc. 3. Frequent touching of eyes, nose and mouth. 4. Spitting in public places. 5. Self-medication without consulting the physician. What is the HMPV Virus? The new virus from China, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), is a type of common respiratory virus that can spread among people of all ages. However, it is expected to have a greater impact on the elderly and young children. You can also become infected with the virus if you come into contact with an infected person. Some common symptoms of the virus include a runny nose, sore throat, headache, fatigue, cough, fever, or chills. India on Alert, Know the Preparedness Measures In light of recent reports of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China, India is closely monitoring the situation through all available channels and has also requested timely information on the infection from the World Health Organization (WHO). The Ministry of Health has stated that as a precautionary measure, the number of laboratories testing for HMPV cases will be increased, and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) will monitor HMPV trends throughout the year. According to reports, The ministry stated that a joint monitoring group (JMG) meeting was held on Saturday under the chairmanship of the Directorate General of Health Services to discuss the situation. Experts from the World Health Organization (WHO), Disaster Management Cell, Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), National Center for Disease Control (NCDC), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Emergency Medical Relief (EMR) Division, and hospitals like AIIMS Delhi participated in the meeting. After detailed discussions and based on the currently available information, it was agreed that considering the ongoing flu season, the situation in China is not unusual. The Atul Subhash suicide case has shaken the entire nation with people raising questions against the misuse of anti-dowry and alimony laws. The Bengaluru police arrested Atul's wife Nikita Singhania, her brother and her mother last month and an FIR was registered against them. Nikita had approached the Karnataka High Court seeking quashing of the FIR against her. However, on Monday, the High Court rejected the plea. Atul Subhash committed suicide alleging his wife demanded Rs 3 crore for divorce settlement. The police registered an FIR against the accused persons under Sections 108, 3 (5) of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) on December 9. The single bench headed by Justice S.R. Krishna Kumar passed the order orally stating that the FIR gives out everything to book the case under abetment of suicide. "The prima facie ingredients of the offence are made out in the complaint. Why don't you want the investigation to happen?" the bench asked Singhania. The counsel for Singhania submitted to the court that no ingredients were made out in the complaint for registration of the FIR over the abetment of suicide. She also contended that the deceased Atul Subhash had not mentioned any act by his wife and family members which drew him to commit suicide. The court issued notices to respondents and directed them to file objections. The direction was also given for the prosecution to submit the materials collected during the investigation. A Bengaluru court on January 4 granted bail to the estranged wife and in-laws of automobile firm executive Atul Subhash, who committed suicide here last month citing a troubled marriage and accusing his spouse of harassment. The bail was granted to Atul Subhash's wife Nikita Singhania, her mother Nisha Singhania and brother-in-law Anurag Singhania. The family of Atul Subhash has stated that after obtaining the order sheet, they would appeal against the decision in the High Court of Karnataka. (With IANS inputs) (Discussions on suicides can be triggering for some. But suicides are preventable. If you are looking for help, some suicide prevention helpline numbers in India are 011-40769002 from Sanjivini (Delhi-based, 10 am - 5.30 pm) and 044-24640050 from Sneha Foundation (Chennai-based, 8 am - 10 pm), +91 9999666555 from Vandrevala Foundation (Mumbai-based, 24x7). Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Saurabh Bhardwaj launched a strong rebuttal in response to BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri's reported objectionable comments about Delhi Chief Minister Atishi. In an interview with ANI, He said that the elections will show who is the real father (chunav ke jab result ayenge tab pata chalega kon kiska baap hai). This statement followed remarks made by Ramesh Bidhuri, BJP's candidate in Kalkaji, who, during a public gathering, allegedly made controversial comments regarding CM Atishi's surname and family. Ramesh Bidhuri's Controversial Comment At a rally held in Delhi's Rohini on Sunday, Ramesh Bidhuri made a personal attack on Atishi, raising the issue of her surname change. Bidhuri stated, "Atishi, who was Marlena, is now Singh. She has even changed her father." In his speech, he further commented, "This Marlena (Atishi) became Singh. She changed her name. Arvind Kejriwal swore on his children not to align with the corrupt Congress. Marlena changed her father. This reflects the character of the Aam Aadmi Party." The remarks were widely perceived as a personal and disrespectful attack, particularly targeting Atishis family background. Allegations Against Atishis Parents Bidhuri did not stop at personal jibes but also raised political allegations against Atishis parents. He accused them of submitting a mercy petition for Afzal Guru, the convict responsible for the deaths of several Indian soldiers. Afzal Guru was sentenced to death for his involvement in the 2001 Indian Parliament attack, and this issue has been a point of political contention in India. Bidhuri questioned the people of Delhi, asking whether they would support a leader whose family had sought a pardon for someone like Afzal Guru. This accusation added further fuel to the controversy, as it linked Atishis family to a highly sensitive political issue. Arvind Kejriwal Responds In response to Ramesh Bidhuris personal attack on Atishi, AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal strongly condemned the remarks. He took to social media platform X, accusing BJP leaders of crossing all boundaries of decency. Kejriwal said that the people of Delhi would not tolerate the insult of a woman Chief Minister, and expressed confidence that women in Delhi would retaliate against such derogatory comments. His statement reflected the widespread anger over Bidhuris remarks. Controversial Remarks on Priyanka Gandhi Earlier the same day, Ramesh Bidhuri had stirred another controversy with a sexist comment about Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Speaking at a rally, he promised to develop smooth roads in the Kalkaji constituency, likening them to "Priyanka Gandhi's cheeks." This comment, reminiscent of Lalu Yadavs infamous remark about Hema Malini's cheeks, was widely criticized for being inappropriate and disrespectful toward women. The comment was quickly condemned by Congress leaders, including Alka Lamba, who is contesting from Kalkaji, accusing Bidhuri of using indecent language and insulting women. Lockdown In India Due To HMPV? Some Chinese cities are facing another COVID-19-like situation with the outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus infection. Now, some kids have been found infected with the virus in Gujarat and Karnataka. According to Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, a child has been detected with a Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection at a private hospital in the city. Also, the Indian Council of Medical Research has identified two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka as part of routine monitoring for various respiratory viruses, the Union health ministry announced on Monday. The first case involved a three-month-old female infant with a history of bronchopneumonia, who was diagnosed with HMPV after being treated at Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru. She has since been discharged, the ministry reported. The second case was an eight-month-old male infant, also with a history of bronchopneumonia, who tested positive for HMPV on January 3 following admission to the same hospital. He is currently recovering, the statement added. Will There Be Another Lockdown? Now, with the infections already being reported from two states, the concern is growing across the country. People are also worried about whether the spread will lead to another lockdown in India. As of now, the government has maintained that there is no need to panic as the cases in India are not linked to China. The government has already activated its health agency to monitor the situation and take steps to aware the public. However, since the cases are infecting kids, and if there happens a largescale outbreak, the schools in the affected region may opt to go online to help kids maintain social distancing. As of now, many schools have gone either on holiday or on online mode due to biting cold in the northern belt. However, there is no official announcement for online classes due to the HMPV cases. India witnessed a lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-21 and since then, situation has returned to normal. In the case of HMPV, the country is now better prepared and the chances of lockdown like situation is very minimal. Delhi Govt Alerts Hospitals The Delhi government on Monday issued instructions to all hospitals in the capital to be fully prepared to handle a potential rise in respiratory illnesses following the detection of two Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in Karnataka. In a directive labeled "Most Urgent," Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj directed the health and family welfare department to closely monitor the situation and maintain regular communication with the Union health ministry for timely updates. "Hospitals under the Delhi government must be fully equipped to handle any potential increase in respiratory illnesses, as advised by the Union health ministry," the directive issued by Bharadwaj said. Kejriwal Urges Modi Govt To Act Arvind Kejriwal expressed concern on Monday over the detection of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases and urged the central government to take prompt action to avert a potential health crisis. His statement followed confirmation from the Union health ministry that the Indian Council of Medical Research had identified two cases of HMPV in Karnataka during routine surveillance for respiratory viral pathogens. "The outbreak of the HMPV virus calls for immediate attention from the Centre. Drawing from our experience with COVID, its crucial to contain such cases early and be prepared to tackle what could potentially become another health emergency," said Kejriwal on X. The outbreak of the HMPV virus calls for immediate attention from the Centre. Drawing from our experience with COVID, its crucial to contain such cases early and be prepared to tackle what could potentially become another health emergency. https://t.co/BbFdyJ6ko6 Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) January 6, 2025 No Need To Panic: Karnataka Govt Karnataka government on Monday assured that there was no cause for alarm over the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) as it is already present in the country. "I don't think we should be pressing the panic button, because HMPV is not a new virus, it already exists. Reports suggest that it is the first case of HMPV in India, it is not true because HMPV is an existing virus, and a certain percentage of people do get affected by this virus and it is not something new," state Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said. India reacted sharply to Pakistan's airstrike in civilian areas of Afghanistan saying that Islamabad is a habitual offender. When asked about the airstrike, the official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs of India Randhir Jaiswal said that India unequivocally condemns any attack on innocent civilians. "We have noted the media reports on airstrikes on Afghan civilians, including women and children, in which several precious lives have been lost. We unequivocally condemn any attack on innocent civilians. It is an old practice of Pakistan to blame its neighbours for its own internal failures. We have also noted the response of an Afghan spokesperson in this regard," said Jaiswal. On December 26th, Pakistani military aircraft launched airstrikes in Afghanistan's eastern Paktika province, resulting in the deaths of at least 46 people, the majority of whom were women and children. The Afghan Taliban announced its intention to respond to the attack. In a press release, the Afghan foreign ministry expressed strong condemnation of the incident, describing it as an attack on innocent civilians. The statement further criticized Pakistan, asserting that "blaming neighboring countries for internal issues has long been a practice of Pakistan." Meanwhile, Afghanistan's Ministry of Defence revealed that the Milan Konkursi (9M135) guided missile system has been activated in the country for the first time. As per the ministry's statement, these missiles are capable of targeting armored tanks, warships, and low-altitude helicopters. Enayatullah Khwarazmi, the ministrys spokesperson, confirmed that 13 personnel have successfully completed training on the operation of these missiles. Jan Suraaj chief Prashant Kishor was detained by the Patna Police in the early hours of Monday when he was sitting on an indefinite hunger strike at Gandhi Maidan against the alleged BPSC exam paper leak. Later, the Patna Police also vacated the place at Gandhi Maidan where Jan Suraaj chief Prashant Kishor was sitting on a fast-unto-death with the protestors. Kishor, who began a fast-unto-death on January 2 in support of protesting students demanding the cancellation of the Bihar Public Service Commission exam due to alleged irregularities, was detained and taken away by the police in an ambulance. Before his detention, the Jan Suraaj chief announced that the party would file a petition in the High Court on January 7 regarding the BPSC irregularities. "It is not a matter of decision for us whether we will continue this (protest) or not. We will continue doing what we are doing now, there will be no change in it...We (Jan Suraaj Party) will file a petition in the High Court on the 7th," said Prashant Kishor, ANI reported. On Sunday, Prashant Kishor joined the protesting students at Gandhi Maidan in Patna. He also called on Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav, a prominent figure and the Leader of Opposition (LoP), to take charge of the protest. "He (Tejashwi Yadav) is a tall leader. He is also the LoP. He should have led the protests. I have been telling them to lead the protest. We will step aside. He said that he was coming to Gandhi Maidan with five lakh people. Students (and their issues) should be talked about. Politics can happen whenever. We don't have any party banner here. We care about the agenda of the students," the Jan Suraaj founder said, ANI reported. "This is not a dharna. This is the passion of the people of Bihar to better their conditions, to secure a better future. In this cold weather, some are singing and you can see people from across the board sitting here. I am tired of answering accusations. Look around, and spot the vanity van if you can. We will sleep here too," Kishor added. (With ANI inputs) Booking your next international trip just got simpler. Travanya brings your dream vacation closer with fantastic deals and direct flights. No layovers, no plane changes, just smooth, uninterrupted travel. Who wants to waste time between flights? 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These small steps can make a big difference to your budget! 2. India to Singapore Direct Flight Singapore was ranked as one of the top travel destinations for Indians, with the city offering a mix of culture, shopping, and modern attractions. Direct flights from India make it easy to visit this Amazing city-state. Direct Flights Available From: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai Airlines like Singapore Airlines and IndiGo operate these direct flights, ensuring a comfortable travel experience. Why Fly Direct to Singapore? Singapores unique skyline, delicious food, and endless shopping options make it a must-visit. With flight times of just 5-6 hours, it's an ideal choice for a weekend getaway. Travel Tip: Want to grab cheap flights to Singapore from India? Keep your dates flexible and book in advance for the best rates. 3. India to Canada Direct Flight Canada is increasingly accessible to Indian travelers, especially with a surge in visa applications and direct flights making travel faster and more convenient. The year 2024 has witnessed an extraordinary surge in visa applications from India, marking a strong comeback for international travel. Direct flights have made the journey quicker and more convenient, making Canada more accessible than ever. Direct Flights Available From: Delhi Air India offers non-stop flights to Toronto and Vancouver, reducing travel time significantly. Why Fly Direct to Canada? With flight durations of 14-16 hours, direct flights to Canada are a real-time-saver, making it easier to visit family or explore the beautiful landscapes. Travel Tip: For cheap flights to Canada from India, book a few months in advance and avoid traveling during peak seasons. 4. India to UK Direct Flight The United Kingdom continues to attract Indian visitors, with London and other major cities being hotspots for business and tourism. In 2023, there were 604,000 visits from India to the United Kingdom, reflecting a steady recovery in travel after the pandemics travel restrictions. While this number was lower than the peak of 696,000 visits in 2017, the demand for travel between India and the UK remains strong, and direct flights make the journey smoother than ever. Direct Flights Available From: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru Airlines like Air India and British Airways offer non-stop flights to London and other major UK cities. Why Fly Direct to the UK? Whether you're heading to Londons iconic sights or Manchester for business, direct flights make your journey quick and comfortable, with flight times of just 9-10 hours. Travel Tip: Cheap flights from India to UK are available during off-peak months, such as early spring or late autumn. 5. India to Australia Direct Flight Australia is one of the most sought-after destinations for Indian travelers, especially after the surge in travel post-2020. Direct Flights Available From: Delhi Airlines like Qantas and Air India provide direct flights to Sydney and Melbourne. Why Fly Direct to Australia? With just a 12-13 hour flight, direct routes reduce jet lag, letting you enjoy the beauty of Australia sooner. Travel Tip: Cheap flights from India to Australia Book 3-4 months ahead for the best rates, and look for special deals during the off-season. 6. India to Sri Lanka Direct Flight Sri Lanka continues to be a favorite short getaway destination for Indians, with close proximity making it perfect for a quick vacation. Direct Flights Available From: Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru, Mumbai Airlines like Sri Lankan Airlines offer direct flights, getting you to this tropical paradise in no time. Why Fly Direct to Sri Lanka? With flight times of just 2-3 hours, Sri Lanka is ideal for a short, relaxing getaway filled with beaches, culture, and cuisine. Travel Tip: Cheap flights to Sri Lanka from India are affordable year-round, but you can save even more by booking during off-peak seasons. 7. India to Germany Direct Flight Germany continues to be a popular destination for Indian tourists, with over 232,000 Indian visitors in 2023 alone, resulting in a significant increase in overnight stays. From January to July 2024, approximately 175,000 Indian tourists visited Germany, contributing to over 523,000 overnight stays. This surge in travel highlights Germanys growing appeal to Indian travelers, making direct flights an ideal choice for a smooth and efficient journey. Direct Flights Available From: Delhi, Mumbai Airlines like Lufthansa and Air India offer direct flights to Frankfurt and Munich. Why Fly directly to Germany? Germany offers a mix of historical sites and modern cities. With flight times of 8-9 hours, direct routes make exploring Europe easier than ever. Travel Tip: For cheap flights from India to Germany, book early and target winter months before the holiday rush. 8. India to Dubai Direct Flight Dubai continues to shine as one of the worlds top travel destinations, having recently been ranked as the worlds No.1 city destination in the Top 100 City Destinations Index 2023 by Euromonitor International. In 2024, Dubais remarkable tourism performance was also highlighted by accolades such as the Tripadvisor Travellers Choice Awards for the third year in a row. With its world-class shopping, modern architecture, and vibrant culture, its no wonder Dubai remains a favorite destination for travelers. Direct Flights Available From: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad Airlines like Emirates and IndiGo offer frequent direct flights to Dubai, making it easy for Indians to visit this dynamic city. Why Fly Direct to Dubai? With just a 3-4 hour flight, Dubai is perfect for a quick shopping spree, business trip, or short vacation. Travel Tip: Keep an eye out for special offers and last-minute deals to find cheap flight tickets to India from Dubai. 9. India to Bali, Indonesia Direct Flight Bali continues to be a dream destination for many Indian travelers, with the island's tropical charm and serene beaches attracting millions every year. Direct Flights Available From: Delhi (Seasonal or reduced stopovers) Direct flights are available during peak seasons, offering a smooth journey to this paradise island. Why Fly Direct to Bali? While direct flights are seasonal, they make the journey to Bali much quicker, allowing you to dive into the island's beauty right away. Travel Tip: Book cheap flights to Indonesia from India during the off-season for the best deals on flights to Bali. 10. India to Thailand Direct Flight Thailand remains one of the most popular destinations for Indian travelers, offering a mix of culture, beautiful beaches, and delectable cuisine. Direct Flights Available From: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru Why Fly Direct to Thailand? With just a 4-5 hour flight, Thailand is an ideal spot for a quick escape. Direct flights make it easy to explore Bangkok's lively streets, temples, and markets without spending too much time in transit. Travel Tip: For cheap flights to Thailand from India, book in advance and look for deals during off-peak travel seasons. FAQs Q: What airlines operate direct flights from India to popular destinations? A: Airlines like Air India, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, British Airways, and Lufthansa offer direct flights from India to popular destinations across the globe. Q: How long do direct flights from India take? A: Direct flight durations vary by destination. Short flights to Dubai take around 3-4 hours, while longer flights to New York can take up to 15 hours. Q: Are there premium economy or business class options on direct flights? A: Yes! Many airlines offer business class and premium economy options, allowing you to enjoy a more comfortable and luxurious experience on your flight. Q: How do I find cheap flights to India from Canada? A: Booking early, being flexible with your travel dates, and avoiding peak seasons are the best ways to score cheap flights. Q: Whats the best time to book cheap flights to India from Dubai? A: You can find the best deals when booking during off-peak times, like April or September, when there are fewer travelers and lower prices. Q: Are direct flights more expensive than connecting flights? A: Direct flights can sometimes cost more, but with Travanya, we help you find the best prices, making it affordable and convenient. Conclusion Traveling directly from India to top destinations around the world is now easier than ever. With direct flights, you can save time, avoid long layovers, and enjoy a smoother journey. Whether you're heading to the USA, Singapore, or anywhere else, youll find affordable options that fit your travel needs. Booking a direct flight means more comfort and less stress. So why wait? Your dream vacation is just a flight away book today and start your adventure. Why Choose Travanya for International Flights? Travanya is dedicated to making travel seamless and affordable, offering exclusive flight deals, easy bookings, and round-the-clock support. Thank you Certificate from IndiGo Airlines We proudly received a Thank You Certificate from IndiGo Airlines, recognizing our contributions to their sales. This milestone reflects our shared commitment to delivering outstanding travel experiences. 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Pune, known for its educational institutions and rich cultural history, is a city where many individuals seek guidance through astrology. Acharya Indravarman, the best astrologer in Pune, is a trusted name for anyone seeking clarity in their personal or professional life. With his deep knowledge of Vedic astrology and his spiritual approach to problem-solving, he has become a beacon of hope for many in Pune. The Importance of Astrology in Pune Astrology has long been an essential part of Indian culture, and in Pune, it is highly valued for its ability to provide insight into lifes questions. Whether its choosing a career path, finding a life partner, or resolving family issues, astrology plays a key role in helping people make decisions that positively impact their future. Meet Acharya Indravarman: The Best Astrologer in Pune Most Famous Vedic Astrologer Acharya Indravarman is recognized as the Best Astrologer in Pune due to his profound understanding of Vedic astrology. His services have helped countless individuals navigate their lifes challenges with accuracy and confidence. His ability to analyze birth charts and provide insightful solutions makes him the go-to astrologer in the city. Services Offered by Acharya Indravarman Horoscope Readings Acharya Indravarman provides detailed horoscope readings that offer deep insights into your lifes challenges and opportunities. His readings help you understand your strengths, weaknesses, and the most favorable path to take. Compatibility Matching for Marriage and Solutions for Love Problems Astrology plays a crucial role in finding the right life partner. Acharya Indravarman offers horoscope matching services to ensure compatibility and marital harmony. His solutions help prevent potential conflicts and ensure a blissful Love relationship. Career and Job Guidance Acharya Indravarmans career guidance is based on a thorough analysis of your birth chart. Whether you are seeking a job change or career growth, his predictions and advice will help you make informed decisions and reach your professional goals. Health Predictions and Remedies Health-related issues are often linked to planetary positions, and Acharya Indravarman can predict potential health problems through your horoscope. He offers remedies to maintain good health and prevent diseases. Spiritual Healing Acharya Indravarman provides spiritual healing through rituals, mantras, and pujas that help remove negative energies and bring positivity into your life. These remedies help address deep-rooted issues and promote mental peace. For Complicated troubles he picks selected rituals based on his Shakta Tantra and Kaula Tantra knowledge. Financial Astrology With Acharya Indravarmans financial astrology services, you can make wise investment decisions and secure your financial future. His predictions help individuals and businesses achieve financial prosperity and stability. Why Choose Acharya Indravarman as the Best Astrologer in Pune? With his vast experience in Vedic astrology and a compassionate approach to solving problems, Acharya Indravarman is the best astrologer in Pune. His unique blend of spiritual wisdom and practical solutions makes him the ideal choice for anyone seeking guidance. Conclusion Astrology provides answers to lifes pressing questions, and with Acharya Indravarman as your guide, youll gain the clarity and direction you need. Whether its personal, professional, or spiritual guidance, his expertise and remedies make him the Best Online Astrologer in Pune. Choose Acharya Indravarman to transform your life for the better. (This article is part of IndiaDotCom Pvt Lts consumer connect initiative, a paid publication programme. IDPL claims no editorial involvement and assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of the article.) Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, Ajit Pawar, has sparked a political controversy with his recent comments in Baramati, where he addressed a gathering of voters. His remarks, suggesting that the people of Baramati were not his "boss" simply because they voted for him, have caught the attention of political analysts and sparked heated discussions. Ajit Pawar was in Baramati to understand the concerns and grievances of the local population. During his speech, while addressing the crowd, workers continuously approached him with letters asking for favors. Initially, Pawar ignored the requests, but as the interruptions persisted, he became visibly irritated. He addressed one of the workers, saying, You voted for me, that does not mean you have become my master. Have you made me a farm laborer now? His statement, which seemed to suggest frustration with the constant demands of his constituents, quickly attracted widespread attention. The timing of his comments coincided with the ongoing political debate surrounding his faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), especially after his split from Sharad Pawar's faction. NCP Reaffirms Alliance with BJP-Led Mahayuti Coalition The NCP has reaffirmed its commitment to the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance in Maharashtra. The announcement came after the NCP's internal discussions, where Maharashtra NCP chief Sunil Tatkare reiterated the party's decision to continue its alliance with the BJP. Tatkare emphasized that the decision made in July 2023 to align with the BJP remains unchanged, putting to rest any speculation about the NCP returning to its previous alliance with Sharad Pawars faction. Maharashtra Election Results: Eknath Shinde's Strong Response Meanwhile, Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde offered a strong response to the results of the 2024 Maharashtra state assembly elections. In his remarks, Shinde described the election results as a slap on the face for his political opponents, particularly those from Uddhav Thackeray's faction of the Shiv Sena (UBT). Shinde, who has been strengthening his position within the Shiv Sena faction, responded to the criticism from leaders who questioned the Election Commission and the Supreme Court. He dismissed the objections, asserting that the people of Maharashtra had delivered a clear message of rejection to the opposing factions. Without directly naming Uddhav Thackeray, Shinde took aim at those who had previously expressed confidence in their public support, saying, The people of Maharashtra have completely rejected them. His comments came at a time when several leaders from Shiv Sena (UBT) were defecting to his faction, further bolstering his position within the states political landscape. The excitement for Deva, the upcoming action thriller starring Shahid Kapoor and directed by Rosshan Andrrews, continues to build, especially with its gripping teaser gaining widespread attention. Backed by Zee Studios and Roy Kapur Films, the teaser has captured the interest of audiences nationwide and earned praise from some of the biggest names in the Malayalam and Tamil film industries. Acclaimed actress Jyothika, who shares a close friendship with director Rosshan Andrrews, took to Instagram to wish him success, writing, All the very best, dearest Rosshan. Malayalam superstar Manju Warrier also expressed her enthusiasm, sharing the teaser on Instagram with a comment that read, This is going to be killer @rosshanandrrews. In addition, actor Nivin Pauly joined the wave of support by sharing the Deva poster and sending his best wishes to the team, adding heart emojis and a heartfelt note of appreciation. Directed by the celebrated Rosshan Andrrews, Deva is produced by Umesh Bansal and Siddharth Roy Kapur. The high-octane action thriller is set to hit theaters on January 31, 2025. With such strong industry backing and buzz from top stars, the anticipation for Deva continues to rise. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain West Virginia University pediatric trauma specialists and statisticians have formulated a measure to more accurately assess children with traumatic injuries to ensure they receive the most effective life-saving treatment. "This tool we've evaluated is not only accurate in predicting which pediatric patients are going to benefit from going to a Level 1 trauma center, but it's also simpler than ones that have been previously proposed, so a paramedic can use it in the back of an ambulance," said Tanner Smida, an MD/Ph.D. student from Finleyville, Pennsylvania, whose studies focus on emergency medicine. Smida, along with Dr. James Bardes, associate professor of trauma, acute care surgery and surgical critical care, and Dr. Patrick Bonasso, assistant professor and pediatric trauma director, both in the WVU School of Medicine Department of Surgery, came up with the concept for the study to augment the triage of children whose injuries occur in rural areas far from a trauma center. The formula for assessment, however, can be used in any setting to determine the need for critical care. The Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, which published the paper, selected the study as one of the best of 2024. The work evolved from Bardes' previous studies on adults with traumatic injuries, particularly those in rural states. Brad Price, chair and associate professor of management information systems and supply chain in the WVU John Chambers College of Business and Economics, was also a study co-author. "When a child is injured, the most important first decision made by arriving EMTs and paramedics is where they are going to take the patient," Smida said. "This tool gives us a simple and highly accurate way to identify high-risk pediatric trauma patients and send them to the right place, which can have an impact on their outcome." The team of WVU researchers evaluated the reverse shock index or rSIM score, which includes the ratio of systolic blood pressure to heart rate, and the motor skills component of the Glasgow Coma Scale or GSC, a tool to assess level of consciousness. "We know the motor component is the most predictive, the most consistent across the age range for children," Bardes said. "And it's just easier." To conduct the study, Price said researchers looked at the National Trauma Data Bank to understand the relationship between rSIM scores, pediatric mortality and hospital resource utilization nationwide. Their approach investigated patients ages 1 to 16 and accounted for information such as age, gender and injury severity. Traumatic injuries in youths can result from vehicle and ATV accidents, falls and acts of violence. Smida said first responders could use the tool to assess an accident victim by dividing the patient's blood pressure by their heart rate. That number would be multiplied by their GCS score, a figure determined by whether motor skills are present, such as being able to give a thumbs up. "Imagine the scenario of a 6-year-old boy being struck by a car at low speed while crossing an intersection," Smida said. "The EMTs perform a rapid trauma assessment and acquire an initial set of vital signs, including a blood pressure and heart rate. One of the EMTs asks the patient if he can 'give a thumbs up,' and he does. "From this basic set of information, these EMTs would already be able to calculate the rSIM score. His systolic blood pressure is 90 mmHg, his heart rate is 118 beats per minute, and his ability to give a thumbs up indicates that he can follow commands, which corresponds to a score of six on the motor component of the Glasgow Coma Scale. A few taps on a phone calculator, dividing blood pressure by heart rate and then multiplying by the motor GCS, yields an rSIM score of 4.6." Emergency personnel would then call WVU Medical Command and provide information on the accident and rSIM score. "In the future, using the data from our paper, that physician may be able to reference the optimal rSIM threshold that predicts the need for specialized trauma center care for the patient's age group," Smida said. "In this scenario, we can imagine that the optimal threshold value is five. Because the patient's calculated rSIM value is below that threshold at 4.6, the physician decides the patient needs to be seen at the specialized pediatric center due to a high probability of serious injury." Smida explained that it's important to select the proper level of care because otherwise patients can be either overtriaged, meaning they receive more intensive care than is needed, or undertriaged without access to facilities and health care providers to give life-saving treatment. "If you overtriage a patient who doesn't actually have severe injuries by putting them in a helicopter and flying them hours away across the state to a Level 1 trauma center, you've kind of harmed the patient in a couple of ways," Smida said. "You've taken them far away from their family and imposed a pretty significant financial burden, and you've also increased the resource utilization at the trauma center. "On the other hand, if you underestimate the injuries of that patient and you just take them to the local hospital that's 10 minutes down the road, then that patient is not going to get access to timely blood transfusion or access to surgeons they need in order to stabilize them and save their lives," Smida said. Results were able to accurately predict a patient's chance of survival, along with the need for blood transfusion, intensive care unit admission or surgery, Smida noted. Bonasso said the study will also help hospitals prepare for receiving patients at certain trauma levels. "We're talking about interventions that happen in the emergency department, like blood transfusions, or whether there's a need for procedures in the operating room," he said. Bonasso said he would like to see the next phase of the study involve educating pre-hospital providers, particularly those in West Virginia and the region, on how to use the tool. He also expects to see other researchers use the WVU team's findings in their own studies. Within the next few months, the WVU team will partner with the pediatric trauma clinical collaborative ATOMAC+ Pediatric Trauma Research Network to conduct an expanded study. "We're going to look at more granular data with hopes of making this a lot more accurate and validating different populations," Bardes said. "Hopefully, it will make an impact nationwide." More information: Tanner Smida et al, Reverse shock index multiplied by the motor component of the Glasgow Coma Scale predicts mortality and need for intervention in pediatric trauma patients, Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery (2024). DOI: 10.1097/TA.0000000000004258 Journal information: Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery In a big shift in the Canadian politics, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation Monday amid rising discontent over his leadership. Trudeau's resignation comes after the abrupt departure of his finance minister that signalled growing turmoil within his government. However, now Trudeau will serve as interim PM until a new leader of the Liberal Party is chosen. "I intend to resign as party leader and Prime Minister after the party selects its next leader for a robust, nationwide, competitive process. Last night, I asked the President of the Libder Party to begin that process. This country deserves a real choice in the next election and it's becoming clear to me that if I'm having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election," said Trudeau. Trudeau, who has served as Liberal leader since 2013 and became prime minister in the fall of 2015, announced his much-anticipated decision on Monday morning outside his official residence, Rideau Cottage. With this, Canadian Parliament's upcoming session has been postponed from January 27 to March 24. More than 24 individual MPs, along with several regional caucuses from Atlantic Canada, Quebec, and Ontario, have been urging him to resign since before the holiday season. Addressing the media, Trudeau said that he is a fighter and he deeply cares about Canadians. "I care deeply about this country and I will always he motivated by what is in the best interest of Canadians. The fact is despite best efforts to work through it, Parliament has been paralysed for months after what has been the longest session of a minority Parliament in Canadian history. That's why this morning, I advised the Governor General that we need a new session of Parliament. She has granted this request and the House will now be prorogued until March 24," said Trudeau. The 53-year-old scion of one of Canada's most famous prime ministers became deeply unpopular with voters in recent years over a range of issues, including the soaring cost of food and housing, and surging immigration. Based on the latest opinion polls, Trudeau's chances for success looked slim. In the latest poll by Nanos, the Liberals trail the Conservatives 47% to 21%. A combination of scandal and unpopular policies damaged his prospects over time. Trudeau's father swept to power in 1968, and led Canada for almost 16 years, becoming a storied name in the country's history, most notably by opening its doors wide to immigrants. Pierre Trudeau was often compared to John F Kennedy and remains one of the few Canadian politicians who are recognised in America. Tall and trim, with movie-star looks, Justin Trudeau channelled the star power if not quite the political heft of his father. He became the second-youngest prime minister in Canada's history, and rivals said his age was a liability when he first sought office. But he won a sweeping mandate in a come-from-behind victory in 2015. Trudeau is a former teacher, nightclub bouncer and snowboard instructor who has three children with his now estranged wife, a former model and TV host. (With agency inputs) A massive winter storm has swept across the central United States, bringing heavy snow, ice, and dangerously cold winds. The storm, which intensified on Sunday, has led to hazardous travel conditions in several states, with some regions bracing for the heaviest snowfall in a decade. High Winds Disrupt Central U.S. Parts of Kansas, western Nebraska, and Indiana were hit by a blanket of snow and ice that made driving conditions treacherous. The storm has especially impacted major roadways in these areas, where drivers have been warned to avoid travel if possible. In Kansas, winter storm warnings were issued by the National Weather Service, with snow accumulation expected to exceed 8 inches in many areas, particularly to the north of Interstate 70. The National Guard in Indiana was deployed to assist motorists stranded on snow- and ice-covered roads, helping with rescues and ensuring public safety amid the severe weather conditions. Blizzard Conditions In addition to the snow and ice, the storm has brought gusty winds that are making the cold even more unbearable. Wind gusts in parts of Kansas and Missouri reached up to 45 miles per hour (72 km/h), making it feel even colder and reducing visibility. These blizzard-like conditions have led to further warnings for residents, with several regions preparing for a prolonged spell of dangerous weather. Warnings and State of Emergency As the storm continues to move eastward, the National Weather Service has extended its warnings to New Jersey, where snow and ice are expected to hit on Monday and into early Tuesday. The storm has already prompted emergency declarations in two states, with authorities urging residents to stay updated on the latest weather advisories and avoid unnecessary travel. 63 Million People Affected By Sunday, approximately 63 million people across the U.S. were under various winter weather advisories, watches, or warnings. The storm is being closely monitored as it brings life-threatening conditions to a wide swath of the central and eastern United States. Authorities are urging caution and preparedness as temperatures continue to plummet, making this a dangerous and potentially historic winter storm. All Six Military Hymns Available to Churches Permission granted to perform, record, and rearrange The six military hymns. Use of Department of Defense imagery does not constitute product or organizational endorsement of any kind. This notice is required, even for military hymns, due to the authors use of DoD imagery for this public service announcement. NEWS PROVIDED BY Jonathan Sciano Former Air Force Sergeant Jan. 6, 2025 WASHINGTON, Jan. 6, 2025 /Standard Newswire/ This is a public service announcement, that all six military hymns are available for patriotic and church events, for free downloads at SpaceForceHymn.com, and performances, recordings, and re-arranging. Churches can present patriotic events with all six military hymns, without resorting to the six military killing songs. Former Air Force Captain James F. Linzey, who retired as a chaplain from the Army, wrote the Space Force hymn and uploaded all six military hymns for easy download for everyones use. The six military hymns are the Air Force Hymn (Lord, Guard and Guide the Men Who Fly), the Army Hymn (Eternal Father, Hear Our Prayer), the Coast Guard Hymn (Ruler of Land and Sea), the Marine Corps Hymn (Serving for Thee), the Navy Hymn (Eternal Father, Strong to Save), and the Space Force Hymn (Creator of the Universe). Many times we attend patriotic church events without singing one military hymn, but sing the six military death marches, all about killing people abroad. As we turn the page in our nations history with the recent election, let us lift our hearts in praise to God with all six military hymns, honoring God who is the author of life, not death. The six military hymns bring out the good side of the United States Army Forces, whose purpose is to protect life in America, not kill people abroad. The Space Force Hymn is the first military hymn written in 105 years. Its author, James Linzey, is the only living author of a military hymn. He wrote the official Space Force Hymn in 2020. Permission is granted for public performances, re-arranging, and recordings of the hymns. Get ready to sing these six military songs of praise to God, who is the Creator of life and liberty. Jonathan Sciano is a former Air Force Sergeant and freelance writer, who resides in Sierra Vista, Arizona. Download the six military hymns here: Sheet music: https://spaceforcehymn.com/ Contact Jim Linzey for interviews Phone: (760) 855-3905 MilitaryBibleAssociation@gmail.com SOURCE Jonathan Sciano, Former Air Force Sergeant This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Calling alcohol the third-leading preventable cause of cancer, the U.S. surgeon general on Friday recommended that alcoholic beverages come with the same type of warning label currently used on packs of cigarettes. Northeastern University marketing and health experts say warning labels could stir conversation about alcohol consumption but might also be ignored by people who have grown blase about health messaging. A warning label could deter some people from having a secondor firstglass of wine, says Richard A. Daynard, Northeastern University Distinguished Professor of Law and president of the Public Health Advocacy Institute. "The introduction of the label would cause a lot of public discussion," he says. "There could be a contagion effect, change in social norms, if enough people took it seriously." Young people who don't drink when their friends are consuming alcohol currently may feel uncomfortable or "uncool," Daynard says. "But if the norm changesand other beverages or activities become the thing to dothen it could have a big impact." Susan Mello, an associate professor of communication studies, says the timing of the surgeon general's advisory couldn't be better. As people get busy making New Year's resolutions to improve health and well-being, we're "more receptive to this type of information that we would be otherwise," Mello says. "Dry January is also popular right now," she says. Some experts warn against going "cold turkey" for moderate to heavy drinkers, Mello says. "But for casual consumers of alcohol, I can imagine the introduction of these warning labels serving to reinforce their decision to abstain from alcohol long term." A change likely won't come from a label alone, says Chad O'Connor, a marketing expert and lecturer at Northeastern's D'Amore-McKim School of Business. "I think you are unlikely to see a significant decline in consumption without some jarring images and warnings," O'Connor says. "For instance, packs of cigarettes that have photos of black lungs from years of smoking are more effective than saying smoking causes cancer," he says. The other issue is that marketers have always found a way to work around these kinds of warnings, O'Connor says. "If they are obligated to put a warning on, they will try to do it in a way that calls the least amount of attention and stands out the least unless there is clear regulation on how to do it." "For instance, drug company ads that legally have to list off tons of side effects that may happen, but they do it in a way that changes to a droll voiceover and with smaller print," O'Connor says. There is "also a problem of dilution," Daynard says. "One wonders, for example, whether side effects warnings in drug ads lead some people to think, "Well, everything is dangerous, so why not just forget about it and live a little.'" "Campaigning about one risk tends to distract attention from other risks," Daynard says. "Humans are not natural statisticians, as in, 'tobacco risks are X, alcohol risks are 10% of X, but still serious,' but rather storytellers, as in, "I used to think cigarettes cause cancer, but now I learned that it's alcohol that causes cancer,'" he says. In his Friday advisory, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murphy said alcohol consumption is the third-leading preventable cause of cancer in the United States, after tobacco and obesity, increasing the risk for at least seven types of cancer. The American Cancer Society says smoking is linked to about 30% of all cancer deaths in the U.S., while excess weight is linked with about 7% of cancer deaths and alcohol consumption is associated with 4% of all cancer deaths. Less than half of Americans currently recognize alcohol consumption as a risk factor for cancer, despite growing scientific evidence for the connection, according to the U.S. surgeon general's office. "One of the striking data points highlighted in the surgeon general's report is that he elevated risk associated with breast cancer," says Neil Maniar, director of Northeastern's Master of Public Health Program. "As we see rates of certain types of cancer increase among young and middle-aged adults, it's important that we highlight how lifestyle factors and health behaviors can contribute to the risk over one's lifetime," he says. The younger generation is already consuming less alcohol than older friends and relatives, says Ashleigh Shields, assistant teaching professor in the department of public health and health science and the department of communication studies. While she believes it's time for a warning label, Shields also believes various factors need to be taken into effect when considering individual cancer risks, including food consumption, social and physical activities, genetics, environmental conditions and other factors. Whether moderate alcohol consumption is beneficial or detrimental to overall longevity has been the subject of scientific debate for years. "There will always be debates about health issues that require people to change their behaviors because change is hard," says Elizabeth Glowacki, a Northeastern expert in health communication and message design. "There will be debates about moderation versus excessive consumption, debates resulting from misinformation, etc.," she says. "Marketing plays a huge role in the perception of substance abuse," Glowacki says. "It is also important that messages or campaigns do more than merely tell people to stop drinking altogether, because according to reactance theory, people do not like to be told what to do or have their freedoms restricted," she says. "They may end up doing the opposite and, in some cases, engaging in even more extreme or dangerous forms of that behavior," Glowacki says. She says she also would like to see any labeling combined with social media campaigns advising people on how to get help in reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption. Daynard says he doubts the advisory will turn all moderate drinkers into teetotalers. But, he says, "if people are on the fence about whether to drink at all or on a particular occasion, the warning even by itself could make a substantial difference." "The report itself has catalyzed an important discussion about the need for better education and communication regarding alcohol consumption," Maniar says. This story is republished courtesy of Northeastern Global News news.northeastern.edu. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Dating apps have become the go-to for starting a romance but new research reveals they may harm Australian's body image, mental health and overall well-being, as anxiety about achieving beach bodies returns this summer. Australians are turning to online dating in record numbers, but Flinders University researchers have reviewed data from 45 studies between 2016 and 2023 to reveal the negative impact dating apps have on users' mental health and well-being. Led by Ph.D. candidate Zac Bowman in the College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, the analysis shows more than 85% of the studies identified a significant connection between using dating apps and poor body image, and nearly 50% of the studies linked the apps with negative mental health outcomes. "Dating apps and their relationship with body image, mental health and well-being: A systematic review," by Bowman, Murray Drummond, Julia Church, James Kay and Jasmine Petersen, was published in Computers in Human Behaviour. "Our review shows that dating apps can undeniably harm users' body image, mental health, and well-being, highlighting the need for protections to reduce its negative impact on young Australians who regularly use apps in search of a partner," he said. "These negative outcomes include disordered eating, unhealthy weight-control behaviors such as steroid use, induced vomiting and laxative use. Using dating apps was also linked to poorer self-esteem and higher depression and anxiety." Body image refers to the perceptions or feelings that one has toward their own appearance, often revolving around body size, shape, and attractiveness. The researchers say dating apps now boast a total of 337 million users globally and the primary target demographic are people aged 1829. "Poor body image outcomes make it clear that developers need to introduce strategies that educate the public on the potential risks of using dating apps, which will be critical to safeguarding young people's well-being," Bowman said. Between 2016 and 2023, 48.9% of studies focused on body image outcomes and more than 60% on mental health and well-being. More than 85% of these studies found significant negative impacts of dating app use on body image, and almost half reported negative effects on mental health and well-being. Senior author Professor Drummond says younger adults are more likely to be using dating apps as well as battling with mental health and well-being concerns, so protecting them through regulation should be a policy priority. "Regulations on dating apps, including introducing usage restrictions and daily time limits are needed to protect users from these concerning negative impacts." "Developers should be looking at ways to decrease the serious implications attributed to app dating. For example, by decreasing the importance and prevalence of visual content on user profiles, addressing discrimination and abuse and promoting active use rather than passive." More information: Zac Bowman et al, Dating apps and their relationship with body image, mental health and wellbeing: A systematic review, Computers in Human Behavior (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2024.108515 Journal information: Computers in Human Behavior 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: Soda bottle on its side. Credit: Alonso Nichols/Tufts University A new study from researchers at the Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, published in Nature Medicine, estimates that 2.2 million new cases of type 2 diabetes and 1.2 million new cases of cardiovascular disease occur each year globally due to consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages. In developing countries, the case count is particularly sobering. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the study found that sugar-sweetened beverages contributed to more than 21% of all new diabetes cases. In Latin America and the Caribbean, they contributed to nearly 24% of new diabetes cases and more than 11% of new cases of cardiovascular disease. Colombia, Mexico, and South Africa are countries that have been particularly hard hit. More than 48% of all new diabetes cases in Colombia were attributable to consumption of sugary drinks. Nearly one-third of all new diabetes cases in Mexico were linked to sugary drink consumption. In South Africa, 27.6% of new diabetes cases and 14.6% of cardiovascular disease cases were attributable to sugary drink consumption. Sugary beverages are rapidly digested, causing a spike in blood sugar levels with little nutritional value. Regular consumption over time leads to weight gain, insulin resistance, and a host of metabolic issues tied to type 2 diabetes and heart disease, two of the world's leading causes of death. "Sugar-sweetened beverages are heavily marketed and sold in low- and middle-income nations. Not only are these communities consuming harmful products, but they are also often less well equipped to deal with the long-term health consequences," says Dariush Mozaffarian, senior author on the paper and director of the Food is Medicine Institute at the Friedman School. As countries develop and incomes rise, sugary drinks become more accessible and desirable, the authors say. Men are more likely than women to suffer the consequences of sugary drink consumption, as are younger adults compared to their older counterparts, the researchers say. "We need urgent, evidence-based interventions to curb consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages globally, before even more lives are shortened by their effects on diabetes and heart disease," says Laura Lara-Castor, first author on the paper who earned her Ph.D. at the Friedman School and is now at the University of Washington. The study's authors call for a multi-pronged approach, including public health campaigns, regulation of sugary drink advertising, and taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages. Some countries have already taken steps in this direction. Mexico, which has one of the highest per capita rates of sugary drink consumption in the world, introduced a tax on the beverages in 2014. Early evidence suggests that the tax has been effective in reducing consumption, particularly among lower-income individuals. "Much more needs to be done, especially in countries in Latin America and Africa where consumption is high and the health consequences severe," says Mozaffarian, who is also Jean Mayer Professor of Nutrition at the Friedman School. "As a species, we need to address sugar-sweetened beverage consumption." More information: Laura Lara-Castor, Burdens of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease attributable to sugar-sweetened beverages in 184 countries, Nature Medicine (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-03345-4 Journal information: Nature Medicine This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: A study nurse screens a pregnant participant for anaemia by collecting a blood sample for haemoglobin. Credit: Elisabeth Mamani-Mategula, the Training and Research Unit of Excellence (Malawi) A major trial has found a single iron infusion in the third trimester can significantly reduce anemia in pregnant women and outperform the efficacy of iron tabletsthe current recommended standard of care. Adequate iron is critical during pregnancy to support the health of the mother and developing baby, with poor iron levels linked to a higher risk of preterm delivery, low birth weight and postpartum depression. The study, co-led by WEHI, is the first to show infusions in late pregnancy can significantly boost iron stores in pregnant women as they approach delivery and give birthfindings that could improve maternal care and birth outcomes across the globe. The paper is published in the journal Nature Medicine. Iron deficiency is one of the leading causes of anemia in pregnancy worldwide. Globally, around 37% of pregnant women are anemicalmost 32 million women at any given time. In Australia, anemia reportedly occurs in 25% of all pregnancies. Pregnant women with anemia are at elevated risk of complications, including chronic fatigue, post-partum hemorrhage and stillbirth deliveries. Anemic pregnancies can also be risky for the baby, with potential impacts to the development of the placenta, the baby's brain development and red blood cell formation. In efforts to reduce iron-deficiency in pregnancy, WEHI researchers worked with scientists at the Training Research Unit of Excellence and Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (Malawi) on an innovative trial comparing the effectiveness of iron infusions to oral iron tablets during late pregnancy. "While anemia is one of the most avoidable causes of illness and death in resource-poor nations, any woman across the world can become anemic during pregnancy, highlighting how this remains a global priority," co-corresponding author Professor Sant-Rayn Pasricha said. "We found that a single iron infusion in the third trimester can achieve what oral iron tablets taken every day during a pregnancy cannot. "This is the first concrete evidence that proves infusions in late pregnancy are the superior treatment for combating anemia in expectant mothers, boosting iron levels at a critical time that can ensure both mother and baby are better protected during birth." Working alongside Professor Kamija Phiri (Training Research Unit of Excellence), the research team conducted one of the largest iron trials, involving 590 pregnant women in Malawi. The team found the women receiving infusions had a lower anemia prevalence (46.7%) compared to those receiving iron tablets (62.7%) at the time of delivery. A third-trimester infusion was also found to protect a mother's iron stores, even postpartum. "This sustained impact on anemia is an unprecedented finding that really crystallizes the case for using infusions in late pregnancy to rapidly boost red blood cell production and iron levels," Prof Pasricha, head of the Anemia Research Laboratory at WEHI, said. "We hope our findings will soon be translated in health settings across the world to form a uniform set of guidelines that can ensure more women get the right iron treatment when they need it most. "If intravenous iron can be safely delivered in basic health centers in remote Malawi as our trial has shown, there's really no health setting where IV iron couldn't be effectively and safely given." The World Health Organization (WHO) currently recommends oral iron tablets taken twice daily for pregnant women as the primary prevention strategy for maternal anemia. Researchers hope to soon share this data with the WHO to help inform future global antenatal care guidelines. More information: Sant-Rayn Pasricha et al, Ferric carboxymaltose for anemia in late pregnancy: a randomized controlled trial, Nature Medicine (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-03385-w Journal information: Nature Medicine Provided by WEHI This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain The University of Notre Dame and Unitaid have announced that an innovative vector control tool for malaria called a spatial repellent showed a significant impact on reducing malaria infections in a study published in The Lancet. The spatial repellent product, Mosquito Shield, used alongside insecticide-treated nets, reduced first-time and overall malaria infections by one-third (33.4% and 32.1%, respectively), compared to the placebo product. Building on earlier findings from Indonesia, this is the first trial to show the significant impact that spatial repellents can have when deployed in the fight against malaria and is a major step towards a World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation for a completely new class of vector control tools for malaria. "This is a powerful result. There is no magic bullet for malaria, but a one-third additional decrease in transmission on top of mosquito nets could translate into tens of thousands of lives saved each year," said Dr. Bernard Nahlen, professor of biological sciences and director of the Eck Institute for Global Health at Notre Dame. "Alongside insecticide-treated nets, rapid diagnosis, effective treatment and case management, this approach could reinforce protection for vulnerable groups, including children, pregnant women, and displaced populations." Mosquito Shield, developed and manufactured by SC Johnson, is designed to be placed on the interior wall of an enclosed space where it emits an active ingredient which repels and immobilizes mosquitoes. It was tested in Busia County, Kenya, where, despite nearly universal use of insecticide-treated nets, malaria transmission remains high. Mosquitoes there show a strong preference for feeding on humans and biting indoors and are growing increasingly resistant to insecticides used in other vector control tools. Credit: University of Notre Dame Mosquito Shield was tested as a complementary tool to insecticide-treated mosquito nets, rather than a replacement, and its success offers hope for further reducing transmission in high-burden areas. Based on the level of protective efficacy demonstrated in the trial, the investigative team estimates that around 60 malaria infections can be averted for every 100 people per year using the product. "Unitaid is proud to have supported the AEGIS trial as the results from Kenya mark a major advance in malaria control," said Dr. Philippe Duneton, Executive Director of Unitaid. "The spatial repellent, which hangs discreetly on walls and slowly releases chemicals that protect people from mosquitoes, could become the first new class of vector control tool to enter the fight against malaria in decades. This breakthrough is the result of a successful collaboration spanning industry, academia and donor partners and brings us closer to a diversified toolbox in the fight against malaria." The trial was conducted as part of the Advancing Evidence for the Global Implementation of Spatial Repellents (AEGIS) project, and was led by Notre Dame. "Results from the Kenya trial mark a seminal event in decades-long research on spatial repellents in support of public health," said Nicole Achee, Lead Principal Investigator and Scientific Director of the AEGIS Project at the University of Notre Dame. "We are elated." The Kenyan Ministry of Health has already taken steps to incorporate spatial repellents into the national malaria control strategy. The Ministry has developed Guidelines for the National Scale-Up of Spatial Repellents to prepare for the introduction of this tool as part of its broader malaria prevention strategy. "We have made enormous strides against malaria in Kenya, but areas like Busia County experience rates of malaria that mirror countries with the highest burdens," said Prof. Elijah Songok, Acting Director General of KEMRI. "People in those areas urgently need new tools and tailored solutions. We are proud to see the impact of this work already translating into action for millions of people at risk of malaria here." The Unitaid/University of Notre Dame AEGIS project is also conducting trials of Mosquito Shield in Mali and Sri Lanka to further evaluate the product's efficacy against malaria and dengue, respectively. The Sri Lanka trial builds on previous research led by UND in partnership with the University of California, Davis in Iquitos, Peru, which demonstrated a significant 34% reduction in the risk of dengue infection when using a spatial repellent. The WHO requires evidence from two distinct contexts to inform a potential recommendation for the use of a new product class against a particular disease. The Kenya trial fulfilled the first of these requirements for malaria following the WHO review of study results in March 2024. More information: Eric O Ochomo et al, Effect of a spatial repellent on malaria incidence in an area of western Kenya characterised by high malaria transmission, insecticide resistance, and universal coverage of insecticide treated nets (part of the AEGIS Consortium): a cluster-randomised, controlled trial, The Lancet (2024). DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(24)02253-0 Journal information: The Lancet This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain General practitioners (GPs) in deprived areas should be prioritized for resource, in order to allow them to provide effective care to some of the most unwell and vulnerable patients in society. In areas experiencing high levels of poverty, factors including a lack of access to and time with GP services impacts patients' engagement in health care, their self-management and, ultimately, their overall well-being. The new findings come from research led by the General Practice and Primary Care Team at the University of Glasgow. Working closely with patient groups in some of the most deprived areas of Scotland, the research team found that community factorsexperiences of belonging, stigma from outside the community, and experiences of community-based systems not workinghad a direct impact on health. Currently, people living in areas with high poverty rates are far more likely to not only experience multiple long-term conditions, but also develop them at a younger age. Despite the increased rates of illness, particularly mental health, GP practices in these areas currently receive no extra resources. GPs therefore have no choice but to see more people, with more problems, in less time, which makes providing appropriate care extremely challenging. Published in the British Journal of General Practice, the new study found that high quality person-centered carewhich includes trusting relationship with practitioners, continuity of care, power shared equally between patients and doctorscould influence how people with multiple long-term conditions manage their health. Throughout the study, researchers spent significant time in one community in the West of Scotland which experiences high levels of poverty. People in this area described how the impact of wider shared experiences influenced their experience of health care, and often resulted in anger or disengagement from services. Researchers say this work highlights the importance of prioritizing and resourcing high-quality care in General Practice to narrow existing health inequalities. Moreover, that person-centered care could be particularly important for populations experiencing poverty because it may be able to mitigate the impact of wider negative community experiences. Dr. Marianne McCallum, GP Clinical Academic Fellow in General Practice Primary Care at the University's School of Health and Well-being, said, "This study provides further evidence to suggest that relationships and continuity really are the 'silver bullets of general practice' and this is particularly so in communities experiencing poverty. "This study also emphasizes the need to ensure that GPs working in these areas are properly resourced to allow them time to provide this essential care." More information: Marianne McCallum et al, Multimorbidity and person-centred care in a socioeconomically deprived community: a qualitative study, British Journal of General Practice (2024). DOI: 10.3399/BJGP.2024.0286 Journal information: British Journal of General Practice This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Florida's beaches draw thousands of tourists each year, in addition to residents who swim or surf in the ocean. Yet more often than the public realizes, fecal bacteria is present at high levels in some swimming areas. In December alone, the state health department for Palm Beach County collected samples for routine monitoring that revealed three beaches had fecal bacterial levels considered unsafe. One of those, Dubois Park in Jupiter, had levels higher than the standard guidelines 15 times during routine tests in 2024. A fourth location, Phil Foster Park in Riviera Beach, had bacterial levels in December so high that the health department classified the water as poor quality. It was the 12th time in 2024 that water samples at Phil Foster Park tested above what's considered normal bacterial levels. The health departments in the state's coastal counties test beaches for fecal bacteria, called enterococci, as part of the Florida Healthy Beaches program. However, the state program tests the waters every two weeks, tests only a limited number of locations, and relies on the judgment calls of local health officials when it comes to telling the public about bacteria in beach water that exceeds the level established by state guidelines. "There's inconsistency in how the rules are interpreted and when swim advisories are provided to the public," said Katie Bauman, Florida Policy Manager for the Surfrider Foundation. "We need consistent monitoring and notification to let people know when water is not at a safe level. There should be conspicuous signage when the water tests poor. Some counties do this, and others don't." Swimming in water with high levels of fecal bacteria can lead to health problems such as gastroenteritis (vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramping). It can also irritate the skin, eyes, nose, throat and lungs. When counties get a "poor" test result from a water sample, they have two choices: Warn the public immediately or test again. If a second test turns up a "poor" result, local health departments must warn the public. The Palm Beach County office of the state health department issues a beach advisory after the first poor test. The Broward and Miami-Dade offices of the state health department both wait for a second test. The Surfrider Foundation is a national grassroots network dedicated to protecting the ocean with local chapters in South Florida. It established a Blue Water Task Force of volunteers who test additional recreational water sites in the tri-county area more regularly than the health department. Take caution across South Florida In Broward, the health department tests 13 locations every other week. In December, all locations tested at normal levels. However, the Blue Water Task Force volunteers tested water quality throughout 2024 at 15 additional Broward sites used for recreational swimming or water activities. The task force publishes the results online. Four sites that task force volunteers tested in December had high levels of bacteria: the future courthouse site at Southeast Third Avenue, south of the New River; Tarpon Cove Park in Fort Lauderdale; West Rio Vista; and Pompano Pier. Mike Scully, who had been one of those volunteers, said water main breaks in Broward County over the last few years have spilled sewage into the beaches and waterways, and some of those leaks are ongoing. He advises anyone swimming, paddleboarding or kayaking in the county's waterways or beaches to check sites like Surfrider and Swim Guide beforehand. Christi LeMahieu, Blue Water Task Force Lab Director in Miami-Dade, said her volunteers often find high fecal bacterial levels, particularly in Biscayne Bay. She attributes the county's polluted beaches to factors such as rain runoff, sewage spills, and aging infrastructure systems. "This is caused by the growth in the population and a wastewater infrastructure that has not kept up." How to avoid a health risk LeMahieu advises educating yourself before doing any water or beach activity. You can do that by checking the Florida Healthy Beaches website as well as Surfrider and Swim Guide. "If you see a beach has high levels of bacteria on a regular basis, avoid it," she said. "Wash off afterward, and don't go in with open wounds or if you are immunocompromised." Water-quality advocates have tried and failed to get state lawmakers to improve water quality monitoring and a beachgoer's notification system for the last two years. Bauman said she is hopeful it will happen in 2025. Already, Rep. Peggy Gossett-Seidman, a Highland Beach Republican, has filed the HB 73 called the "Safe Waterways Act." It would shift oversight of water quality from the Department of Health to the Department of Environmental Protection; establish real-time alert systems for the public on sewage spills, bacterial outbreaks and other pollution events; and require a public website and emergency alert system be established to notify the public about beach closures. Bauman said her organization supports this bill. "We want to see increased regularity of testing, more sites tested, and better public notification," Bauman said. What about red tide? Red tide is also known to be present on Florida's beaches and causes health problems for swimmers. On Florida's west coast, as of Jan. 2, there are reports of low levels of red tide (karenia brevis) from St. Petersburg to Fort Myers and high levels near Sanibel Island. People can swim in red tide, but it can cause skin irritation and burning eyes. Red tide can also cause problems such as coughing and sneezing in people with respiratory conditions. Red tide is found mainly in the Gulf of Mexico. It has been reported in the past on Florida's east coast but is not present at this time. 2025 South Florida Sun-Sentinel. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. By Laman Ismayilova Azerbaijan Culture Minister Adil Karimli has discussed prospects of cooperation with the President of the International Turkic Academy, Academician, Shahin Mustafayev. At the meeting, the parties discussed cooperation plans for the current year. Shahin Mustafayev provided information about the International Turkic Academy's activities last year. He stressed the important projects implemented by the organization in the field of scientific research, publications and promotion of the cultural heritage of the Turkic world. Initiatives aimed at strengthening cultural relations and supporting international projects of interest to both parties were discussed at the meeting. Founded in 2010 in Kazakhstan, the International Turkic Academy is an international institute for Turkology research involving Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkiye. Hungary and Uzbekistan have observer status. On 23 August 2012, it was agreed for the organization to become an international institution during the second summit of the Turkic Council in Bishkek. Ratification was completed in 2021. UPDATE: More abductees, Bernard Kavuli and Ronny Kiplangat, also found alive. Just hours before planned anti-abduction demonstrations, two individuals who had been reported missing Billy Mwangi and Peter Mutetiwere found alive Monday morning. Billy, who had been missing for approximately 15 days, was abandoned in Nyeri, around 60 kilometres from his home. He then walked the rest of the way back to Embu. It is not yet clear who orchestrated the abduction, but his family and Kenyans believe it could be linked to his outspoken criticism of the government. Photographs circulating online showed him embracing a relative outside their Majengo home in Embu. Muteti, on the other hand, was released by his abductors in Nairobi and managed to make his way home. He was taken on December 21, 2024, near an apartment in Nairobi because of his social media posts. Both mens release occurred just as human rights activists planned demonstrations, scheduled for Monday, January 6, to protest the rise in abductions and forced disappearances. Organisers believe freeing Billy and Muteti was intended to quash momentum for the planned marches, but they have instead called for even greater public support to condemn the trend. Despite these developments, at least seven other people remain missing after similar incidents. Heightened police presence was reported in parts of Nairobi and other urban centres, allegedly to address concerns of possible disruptions by protesters. Law enforcement officials say the deployment is meant to ensure normal activities continue amid fears of larger demonstrations. Over the past six months, cases of abductions and enforced disappearances have steadily increased, leaving families worried for the safety of young people, especially those who have been active in public demonstrations. According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, at least 82 such cases have been recorded since June 2024, a period that saw widespread protests against the Finance Bill 2024. Thirteen of those abductions reportedly occurred in the last three months of 2024, with seven taking place in December alone. Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Mulele Ingonga has expressed concern about this disturbing pattern. He instructed the police to brief him on the status of ongoing investigations into the abductions and forced disappearances by January 1, 2025. According to the DPP, the state is obligated to protect citizens rights to life and personal security, as enshrined in Articles 26 and 29 of the Constitution. Consequently, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) were ordered to investigate within three days and forward their findings to the DPPs office. Among the high-profile cases the DPP cited are those of cartoonist Gideon Kibet, also known as Kibet Bull, as well as Steve Mbisi, Billy, Muteti, Bernard Kavuli, and Rony Kiplangat. The outcome of the investigations remains closely watched, as families and human rights advocates push for accountability and an end to enforced disappearances in Kenya. Former nominated Member of the County Assembly (MCA) Carren Atieno Muga was arrested on Saturday amid a deepening investigation into the gruesome lynching of a murder suspect at Chemase Police Station in Nandi County. The suspect was forcibly removed from police custody on January 3 by an irate mob, which proceeded to stone, behead him, and set the body on fire. Police say Ms. Muga, the mother of one of the prime suspects in the killing of Enock Kipsang, is connected to an organ-harvesting syndicate. According to authorities, the former MCA was trying to flee after fearing she would be targeted by vengeful locals. She was apprehended along the Chemelil-Miwani-Kisumu road, and her Toyota Harrier was seized as part of ongoing investigations. The mob that stormed Chemase Police Station on January 3 did not stop at lynching the murder suspectidentified as Victor Kimtai. After killing him, they returned to vandalize the station itself, setting it ablaze and leaving three officers injured. Before being lynched, Kimtai had reportedly threatened to expose family members connected to the alleged organ-harvesting syndicate. We are closing in on the other prime suspects in the matter herein, as the case is the pending arrest of known accused with DCI Tinderet dealing, read a statement from the National Police Service (NPS), noting that some stolen items, including the National Flag and Kenya Police Service Flag, had been recovered. The mob violence was triggered by public outrage over the killing of 38-year-old Kipsang, whose dismembered remains were discovered abandoned on a roadside. Kipsangs head was later found in a borehole, and his private parts had been chopped off. News of the murder spread quickly across Tinderet Constituency, prompting over 3,000 locals to gather at the Chemase Police Post, demanding justice and taking matters into their own hands. The January 3 incident raised serious concerns about public order and police safety. In response, Deputy Inspectors General Eliud Lagat (Kenya Police) and Gilbert Masengeli (Administration Police) convened a meeting with senior National Police Service officers from all sub-counties within Nandi. The high-level consultation aimed to foster peaceful coexistence among local residents and restore faith in law enforcement. Investigations continue as police pursue additional suspects connected to the disturbing organ-harvesting claims and the violent attack on Chemase Police Station. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Sunday spoke up on the Trans Nzoia Governor saga, taking to social media to express his support for Governor George Natembeya. This development coming shortly after Natembeya issued strong remarks at the funeral of Speaker Moses Wetangulas mother on Friday, urging President William Ruto to put a stop to the ongoing abductions of youths in the country. My dear brother Governor Natembeya, please do not let the court poets and masters of platitude distract you from the work you are doing of delivering to the people of Trans-Nzoia County, Gachagua wrote. These Court Jesters are on the misguided assignment of providing comic relief to their master. And do not be cowed from speaking out on behalf of the people of Kenya when necessary. Gachagua lauded Natembeyas leadership and stated that the backlash the Governor was receiving only proved the impact he was making by speaking the truth. He urged the Trans Nzoia leader to remain focused on fulfilling his mandate to county residents: My prayer is that you will continue to do so, and to unite your people and protect their dignity and political pride, Gachagua added. This unity, I assure you, will ensure that your peoples interests are always front and centre of the focus of any administration. May God continue to be with you. During his speech at the funeral, Natembeya had challenged President Ruto directly, denouncing the wave of abductions attributed to foul or critical language by young people on social media: We want abductions to end. The youth are using foul language on social media. That needs to change. If it cannot change, people should not be killed or abducted because of it, Natembeya stated. The Governors remarks sparked criticism from several political leaders, including National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwah, who in turn accused Natembeya of leading abductions in his former role as a police regional commander: Gachagua was the orchestrator of abductions so that he could blame President Ruto. Shame on you Governor Natembeya. You cannot complain about abductions when you were the key abductor of Kenyans under the last regime, Ichungwah said. He further accused the former Deputy President of orchestrating the same abductions to shift blame onto President Ruto. Despite the backlash, Gachagua remained steadfast in supporting Natembeya, emphasizing that the Governor should not be deterred by rants and tirades as he champions the rights and welfare of Trans Nzoia residents. Big changes are unfolding in Kisii County as the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) initiates a wave of leadership transitions across secondary schools. These transfers, part of a nationwide effort by the TSC, are aimed at improving school administration and ensuring effective leadership across the board. The changes span multiple sub-counties, with principals handing over their roles to successors in a carefully coordinated process. Heres a quick breakdown: Nyamache Sub-county: Schools like Ekeonga, Nyabite, Ebiosi, and Usena Mission Secondary Schools are undergoing leadership transitions. Kisii Central Sub-county: Nyisia and Ibeno Secondary Schools are set for changes at the top. Masaba South Sub-county: Riabigutu and Geteri PAG Secondary Schools will also have new principals stepping in. Kisii South Sub-county: Expect to see leadership transitions at Genga DOK, St. Raphael Nyangena, and St. Andrews Mogumo Secondary Schools. And it doesnt stop there. Sub-counties like Gucha South, Marani, Etago, and Sameta are also feeling the ripple effects. Schools like Tabaja Township, Kebabe SDA, and Nyaguku Secondary are among those welcoming new leadership. Kebabe, in particular, stands out given its recent scrutiny over KCSE exam issuesa reminder of the challenges some schools face in maintaining integrity and academic standards. You might be wondering, Why all these transfers now? According to the Kisii County education office, this isnt about punishing anyone or fixing specific problems. These frequent transfers, they emphasize, are just routine administrative moves aimed at refining school leadership. A circular issued by Kisii County Director of Education, Philip Chirchir signed by Kipkurui Kirui, outlined the expectations: principals are to hand over their roles without delay, with Sub-County Directors supervising the process closely. The letter urged principals to approach these changes positively, calling them a chance to contribute to growth and stability in new environments. In simple terms, the TSCs goal is to ensure schools are aligned with their academic and administrative objectives. The leadership shake-up might feel disruptive now, but, ultimately, these transitions are part of a broader plan to strengthen education systems nationwide. For schools and their communities, these changes bring both challenges and opportunities. Leadership transitions, especially in education, can be tricky. A new principal means new ideas, new ways of doing things, and sometimes even a shift in priorities. It can take time for a school to adjust. That said, this also opens up the door for growth. Fresh leadership often brings fresh energynew approaches to problem-solving, stronger management, and opportunities to improve academic performance. For parents, students, and teachers, the key is to stay informed and supportive. Change can be unsettling, but its also a normal part of running any large system, especially one as significant as our schools. This isnt just happening in Kisii County. TSCs approach to reassigning principals reflects a national strategy to ensure schools are managed effectively. By Laman Ismayilova Azerbaijan Composers' Union has conducted a final event dedicated to its 90th anniversary, Azernews reports. The event which took place at Uzeyir Hajibayli Concert Hall was marked by the presentation of new sheet music publications and organizational issues. In her opening remarks, the chairman of the Azerbaijan Composers' Union, People's Artist Frangiz Alizade said that numerous events dedicated to the 90th anniversary were held in the Union this year. Mobile plenums in Ganja and Shusha, the 13th "Silk Road" International Music Festival in Shaki, as well as a plenum of young composers, anniversary concerts held abroad, and music festivals where new works by Azerbaijani composers in various genres were performed are among the grand events that were successfully held in the previous year. All these events were met with interest by the music community and were covered in various media. Within the framework of the anniversary year, books and brochures dedicated to the creativity of famous composers and musicologists, as well as to the current problems of musicology, were published. At this event, as a continuation of such a series of publications, a new project was presented, different in form and content. For the first time in the history of the Azerbaijan Composers' Union, scores of new vocal-symphonic works by Azerbaijani composers dedicated to Azerbaijan's Glorious Victory were published. The main purpose of the new publications is to promote these works not only in our country but also beyond its borders. These patriotic music compositions were premiered at Heydar Aliyev Palace during a gala concert dedicated to Azerbaijan's Victory Day (November 8). A large-scale series entitled "Choral and Symphonic Works of Azerbaijani Composers Dedicated to the Glorious Victory" was published in an elegant design. The series includes works by five composers: Frangiz Alizade "Z?f?r mar??", Jalal Abbasov "?anl? Az?rbaycan", Sardar Farajov "Azad ?u?a", Mammad Jafarov "N?r o?lum", Rena Gadimova "Az?rbaycan?m". This is the first volume of the planned series. In total, the musical text of 18 works will be covered. The artistic director of the project is Frangiz Alizade. Each composer participating in the project was presented with a copy of the book. In connection with the anniversary, a jubilee medal "Azerbaijan Composers' Union-90" was established for senior members of the Union. People's Artist Tofig Bakikhanov, Honored Art Worker Zemfira Gafarova, Academician Zemfira Safarova, Corresponding Member of Azerbaijan National Academy of Science Rena Mammadova, Honored Art Workers Imruz Afandiyeva and Hajar Babayeva were awarded the jubilee medal. Note that Azerbaijan Composers' Union has played an important role in helping develop a strong national identity through music. The Union was founded with the assistance of Uzeyir Hajibeyli on June 30, 1934, as a department of the USSR Composers Union. The founding assembly was attended by 17 composers from the USSR countries, including three Azerbaijani composers - Afrasiyab Badalbayli, Zulfugar Hajibeyov, and Niyazi. The current chairman of the Union is Peoples Artist Frangiz Alizade. In 2019, the Azerbaijan Composers' Union celebrated its 85th anniversary. As part of the festival, a series of marvelous concerts were solemnly held in the Philharmonic Hall, Azerbaijani Composers' Union, Baku Music Academy, the State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater, and the Rashid Behbudov State Song Theater. The festival's closing ceremony took place in Heydar Aliyev Palace. Along with concert programs, a scientific conference titled "Achievements of Azerbaijani musical culture in recent years and prospects" was also held as part of the festival. Azerbaijan Composers' Union serves as a space for both well-known and new composers, giving them chances to share their music, work together, and take part in different festivals both in Azerbaijan and around the world. This report has been pulled down, following a clarification from the TSC. Automatic Sacco deductions are set to continue, and there are no plans stop them. By Nazrin Abdul On January 5, between 22:00 and 22:10, units of the Armenian armed forces intermittently fired small arms at the positions of our army near the Zabukh and Jagazur settlements in the Lachin region, Azernews reports, citing the Ministry of Defense. The fire came from positions located in the Digh and Khanazakh areas of the Gorus region. It was also noted that units of the Armenian armed forces have fired at our positions several times in recent days, with all such incidents being duly recorded. Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy, once referred to as a "hyper-president," has once again found himself at the center of a high-profile trial. This time, he is accused of illegally financing his 2007 presidential campaign with money from the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi. The trial, which began on January 6 in Paris, is expected to be one of the most significant in modern French history. Sarkozy's career, which ended with his defeat in the 2012 elections, has long been overshadowed by legal issues. At 69, he has already been convicted twice and has been involved in several investigations. Nevertheless, the former president still holds influence over right-wing voters and maintains regular contact with current President Emmanuel Macron. A recent setback came when the Court of Appeal refused to review his one-year sentence for influence peddling. However, he will not serve time in prison; instead, his sentence has been replaced with an electronic bracelet. Despite this, prosecutors remain determined to send Sarkozy to prison, and the charges against him stem from a decade-long investigation. According to the prosecutor's office, Gaddafi allegedly provided around 50 million to finance Sarkozy's presidential campaign in exchange for international legitimacy for his regime. This supposed "deal" reportedly began in 2005 when Sarkozy visited Tripoli as France's Interior Minister. Sarkozy has denied all charges, calling them an "artificial construct" and part of a political conspiracy. His lawyer, Christophe Ingren, insists there is no evidence to support the claims of illegal financial transactions. "Sarkozy will fight to the end," said his lawyer. The investigation, however, relies heavily on the testimony of key witnesses, including French-Lebanese businessman Ziyad Takieddine. Takieddine claimed to have personally delivered suitcases filled with cash for Sarkozy, though he later retracted his statement, raising suspicions that he was bribed to change his testimony. The historical background is equally dramatic. In 2007, Gaddafi visited Paris with great fanfare, pitching his famous Bedouin tent in the heart of the city. But in 2011, under Sarkozy's leadership, France supported the military operation that led to the overthrow and death of the Libyan dictator. Sarkozy maintains that the accusations against him stem from former Gaddafi associates seeking revenge for these events. However, prosecutors believe that evidence of Libyan financing lies at the heart of a corrupt "deal" that may have altered the course of French politics. If convicted, Sarkozy faces up to 10 years in prison. Other high-ranking members of his entourage are also expected to stand trial alongside him. PRNewswire New Delhi [India]/ London [UK], January 6: India Global Forum is delighted to announce that Oliver Kaye, former Chief Business Officer of Lenskart India, has joined the organisation as Chief Business Officer and also CEO of the UK India Future Forum (UKIFF). In his dual role, Oliver will spearhead the group's business strategy and growth initiatives. Kaye appointed as Chief Business Officer of IGF and CEO of UK India Future Forum. As a start-up to scale-up specialist, Kaye was a key part of the C-Suite which oversaw Lenskart's valuation grow from $300M to $4.5B and launched GAP India as its CEO. With over 25 years of leadership experience in top-tier retail brands, he also held pivotal roles at Tesco, including Head of Retail Operations for Europe and Head of Strategy for General Merchandise, and piloted Calvin Klein's entry into India as CEO. Kaye will also spearhead the UK India Future Forum, a flagship initiative of India Global Forum (IGF) that facilitates high-level engagement between business leaders and policy makers within the UK-India corridor. He will work closely with William Carne, Director of UKIFF, to deepen UK-India ties and foster collaboration and innovation between India and the global business. Manoj Ladwa, Founder and Chairman of India Global Forum, commented on the appointment: "Oliver joins us at an exciting juncture as we embark on the next phase of our growth. He brings a wealth of expertise in operational excellence, seamless market expansions and strategic innovation, and his vast experience in growing businesses will be pivotal as our Group scales its integrated global affairs and media platform combining world-class online and offline events with next-generation media content." On his new role Oliver Kaye said, "IGF is a catalyst for innovation and growth, and I'm excited to contribute to its mission of shaping the future of global business and leadership. Having witnessed India's remarkable growth and potential firsthand over the past decade, I look forward to contributing to IGF's mission of driving change, fostering collaboration, and shaping strategies that positively impact businesses and communities worldwide." Kaye's appointment marks the second significant addition to India Global Forum's leadership in recent months, following the hiring of Uday Karan Verma, former Country Manager at BBC, as President of Business Relations in 2024. About India Global Forum India Global Forum is a global affairs organisation that tells the story of contemporary India. The pace of change and growth India has set itself is an opportunity for the world. IGF is the gateway for businesses and nations to help seize that opportunity. We are uniquely placed to understand the political, economic, and cultural nuances of those wanting to enter the Indian market and those wanting to go global. Find out more here. Social Media Handles to Follow Twitter: @IGFUpdates & @manojladwa LinkedIn: India Global Forum www.indiaglobalforum.com Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2591119/Oliver_Kaye.jpg Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2566069/5099981/IGF_Logo.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) Leasing activities by the Global Capability Centres (GCC) hit all time high in 2024, at 2024 at 29.4 million square feet with a share of 37 per cent of the overall leasing activity across the top 9 cities in India and registering about 29 per cent year-to-year (Y-o-Y) growth, the CBRE South Asia Pvt. Ltd observed in a report. The report titled CBRE India Office Figures Q4 2024 noted that Global firms have actively established and expanded their GCC operations by capitalising on the country's skilled talent pool and a favourable business climate. The growth momentum will persist into 2025 with with new entrants setting up global centres and existing firms scaling their facilities, the report anticipated. Companies from sectors including Technology, Engineering and Manufacturing and BFSI would likely drive demand for both traditional and flexible office spaces for their GCCs, with continued demand from niche sectors such as automobile, semiconductors, and life sciences, the report added. In the Oct-Dec'24 period, GCC leasing represented 34 per cent of the total leasing activity, amounting to 7.6 mn. sq. ft. Bengaluru led the GCC leasing segment with a 34 per cent share, followed by Hyderabad at 20 per cent, Delhi-NCR at 12 per cent, Mumbai at 11 per cent, Pune at 10 per cent, and Chennai at 9 per cent. Ahmedabad, Kolkata and Kochi together accounted for 4 per cent of the GCC leasing in Q4 2024.Anshuman Magazine, Chairman and CEO - India, South-East Asia, Middle East and Africa, CBRE, said, "As we look towards 2025, the office sector in India is poised for continued growth, underpinned by sustained demand from a broad range of industries. Companies are increasingly prioritizing operational efficiency, which would further enhance demand for premium, future-ready assets that are designed to foster employee well-being and provide a competitive edge in talent retention.". On a pan-India basis, overall, office leasing recorded a historic high of 79 mn sq ft in 2024 across nine cities. The absorption marked a 16 per cent Y-o-Y growth, setting a new benchmark for leasing activity. Total supply during CY 2024 stood at 52.3 mn. sq. ft. Bengaluru dominated office space absorption during the year, accounting for approximately 28 per cent share of the total, followed by Hyderabad with 16 per cent and Mumbai with 15 per cent share. In 2024, approximately 52.3 mn. sq. ft. of new office space was completed, with Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune collectively accounting for 67 per cent of the total supply addition. Technology sector accounted for 24 per cent of the total leasing activity, followed by flexible space operators at 19 per cent, BFSI firms at 16 per cent, and engineering and manufacturing companies at 9 per cent. Domestic firms continued to lead the space take-up in CY 2024, accounting for 45 per cent of the total office space absorption, followed by companies from the Americas at 34 per cent, EMEA at 16 per cent, and APAC at 5 per cent. The leasing activity by Indian firms was predominantly driven by flexible space operators, technology companies, and BFSI corporates. On a quarterly basis, office leasing touched the highest ever in Oct-Dec'24 at 22.2 mn. sq. ft. Mumbai, followed by Hyderabad and Bengaluru led the absorption, together accounting for about 66 per cent of the space take-up. In the Oct-Dec'24 period, supply reached 16.1 mn. sq. ft., with Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Pune contributing to much of the supply addition, collectively accounting for approximately 69 per cent. In the quarterly breakdown, technology companies led office leasing with a share of 26 per cent, followed by flexible space operators (21 per cent), BFSI firms (17 per cent), research & consulting companies (10 per cent), engineering and manufacturing corporates (9 per cent), life sciences firms (7 per cent), and others (11 per cent).(ANI) VMPL New Delhi [India], January 6: YesMadam, the bootstrapped at-home salon startup has reappeared on LinkedIn again, do you wonder why? This time, the brand is not talking about its services, growth, or achievements but is boasting Gayatri Panda. Who's she? Why her? What's the reason? Gayatri Panda, now a well-known name amongst the LinkedIn community is a diamond category service partner at YesMadam, India's leading tech-enabled salon-at-home platform. Recently, the brand highlighted Gayatri's proud achievements via billboards across DNCR as she has created history by becoming the platform's best-performing service partner of the year and earned over half a crore (INR 58,00,000) since she joined YesMadam (with a cumulative 4,355+ services). In 2024, she earned over INR 15,00,000 by completing 1200+ services out of which 1000+ loyal customers re-booked her for her exceptional at-home salon services, the growth is spectacular and so is her will to accomplish what she desired. On this, a LinkedIn post was shared by Mayank Arya, Co-Founder & CEO at YesMadam, and it instantly captured the attention of the public's eye and industry leaders, including Rajat Gaur, the Founder of The6c, who transformed his appreciation into action by presenting Gayatri with a diamond gift recognizing her remarkable achievements. This gesture exemplifies the growing recognition and support for outstanding gig economy workers who are reshaping India's service industry landscape. Gayatri Panda's inspiring journey began when she joined YesMadam six years ago, hailing from West Bengal, she had many hurdles to overcome, initially due to communication barriers as Hindi/ English weren't her first language, then equipping herself with technology for service bookings was a challenge but her determination made her learn it all with the consistent support of YesMadam's training team, and eventually she kept giving her best day in and day out - from starting as a standard service partner to becoming a diamond category service professional (where her commission has reduced from 20% to 12%), Gayatri Panda has come a long way today while gaining remarkable growth as an excellent independent female. Gayatri Panda spoke on her inspirational journey. "Jab mene YesMadam join kiya tha, mujhe nhi pata tha ki me itna kuch hasil kar sakti hu, mujhe itna kuch seekhne ko mil sakta hai. Pehle to mujhe hindi bhi ache se bolni nhi aati thi lekin YesMadam ki training team ne bahut saath dia, bahut kuch sikhaya or har din mere liye ek aage badhne ki ummid ban gaya. Jo garv mujhe aaj mehsoon hota hai wo sab mere kaam ki wajah se hai. Jab me kisi ko bolti hu ki me khud apne ghar ke liye kamati hu, mene khud apne paiso se gaari kharidi hai, sona kharida hai,, ghar banaya hai, apne bacche ko ache school bheja hai to mera dil khushi se bhar jata hai kyunki sirf paisa nhi YesMadam ne mujhe samman dilaya hai." The impact of Gayatri's success extends beyond personal achievement. Her story has become a source of inspiration for thousands of beauty professionals across India, demonstrating the potential of the gig economy, when structured with fairness and transparency, can create pathways to financial independence and professional recognition for gig workers. Mayank Arya, Co-founder and CEO of YesMadam, commented on Gayatri's success: "Gayatri's journey epitomizes what we envisioned when we founded YesMadam. Her dedication to excellence and customer satisfaction sets a new standard in the beauty and wellness industry. Her success story is more than just numbers. It is a testament to how determination combined with the right opportunities can transform aspirations into extraordinary achievements. Gayatri's achievements strengthen our belief in the power of combining skilled professionals with technology-enabled opportunities. Her success story is just one example of the potential we see in every service partner who joins our platform. We remain committed to creating more such success stories across India." YesMadam's commitment to empowering service partners through its tech-enabled platform has created an ecosystem where professionals like Gayatri can thrive. The company's focus on fair compensation, and continuous support has established a new paradigm in the beauty and wellness industry, where success is measured not just in numbers but in transformed lives. As the beauty and wellness industry continues to evolve, Gayatri's journey stands as a testament to the transformative impact of brands like YesMadam, which bridge the gap between skilled professionals and customers while creating sustainable entrepreneurship opportunities. (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) The release added that the MoU will be helpful to continue the coordinated efforts in effective implementation of requirements of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act and Rules framed thereunder. The MoU was signed by Vivek Aggarwal, Director, FIU-IND and Satyajit Tripathy, Member (Distribution), IRDAI, as per the release. The MoU between FIU-IND and IRDAI focuses on mutual cooperation in anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT), the ministry of finance stated. As per the ministry, the key points of the MoU include appointing nodal officers, sharing intelligence, defining reporting procedures under PML Rules, and conducting training and skill upgrades for regulated entities. The MoU also emphasises risk assessments, identifying red flag indicators for suspicious transactions in the insurance sector, and ensuring compliance with AML/CFT obligations and international standards, as per the ministry. Additionally, quarterly meetings will be held to discuss AML/CFT trends, typologies, and sanctions-related cases, the release added. FIU-IND stands for Financial Intelligence Unit-India, a national agency that receives, analyses, and shares information about suspicious financial transactions. FIU-IND was established in 2004 by the Government of India to help prevent and fight money laundering and related crimes. While Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), is a statutory body formed under an Act of Parliament, i.e., Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority Act, 1999 (IRDA Act, 1999) for overall supervision and development of the Insurance sector in India. (ANI).The key objectives of the IRDAI include protecting the interest of policyholders, speedy and orderly growth of insurance industry, speedy settlement of genuine claims, effective grievance redressal mechanism, promoting fairness, transparency and orderly conduct in financial markets dealing with insurance, prudential regulation while ensuring the financial security of the Insurance market. (ANI) This mission serves as a cornerstone of India's vision to achieve self-sufficiency in edible oil production, reduce dependence on imports and enhance farmer incomes. Launched to promote domestic oil palm cultivation, the mission aims to bring 6.5 lakh hectares under oil palm plantations by 2025-26. Special emphasis is being placed on leveraging the agro-climatic potential of the North-eastern region and other oil palm-growing states. While significant progress has been made in certain regions, others need to accelerate their efforts. The under utilization of allocated funds and delays in achieving plantation targets underscore the urgency for a more focused and coordinated approach. Quoted by Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in a release, Chouhan emphasised the need for states to prioritise achieving their plantation targets by addressing bottlenecks and mobilizing available resources. With substantial unspent funds under NMEO-OP, states are encouraged to enhance resource utilisation for infrastructure development, farmer support, and plantation expansion. States must also intensify farmer engagement, tackle challenges such as misinformation, and expedite the disbursal of assistance to ensure farmer satisfaction and sustained participation, the release added. To improve transparency and efficiency, the government has introduced initiatives such as digital monitoring through geo-mapping and drone surveillance. The Minister urged states to fully cooperate with these measures. Additionally, the Viability Price (VP) mechanism has been introduced to safeguard farmers against market volatility. States must ensure the timely signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to facilitate this benefit for farmers, the release added. The Union Minister reiterated the importance of a united effort to achieve Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) in edible oil production. A robust partnership between the central and state governments, implementing agencies, and farmers will be critical in realizing the mission's goals.(ANI) The actor took to Instagram on Monday to post a shirtless picture of himself, revealing his slimmed-down appearance post-recovery. In the caption, he wrote, "Took this a day after I recovered from dengue fever." https://www.instagram.com/p/DEegf1OMhNb/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== The picture received a wave of reactions from fans who commented on his resilience. One user wrote, "Action Hero on the spot," while another said, "May your heart be healthy." A third added, "Get well soon TIGER." On the work front, Tiger is gearing up for his next big project, 'Baaghi 4'. The makers had unveiled an intense poster in November, showing Tiger sitting on a toilet seat with a knife in hand and blood splattered around the room. The film also stars Sanjay Dutt and is set to release on September 5, 2025. 'Baaghi 4' will be directed by Kannada filmmaker A Harsha, which marks his Bollywood debut. The film is produced by Sajid Nadiadwala under the Nadiadwala Grandson banner. The 'Baaghi' franchise started in 2016 with the release of the first film, directed by Sabbir Khan. It was an action-packed thriller inspired by the 2004 Telugu movie 'Varsham' and the 2011 Indonesian film The Raid: Redemption. The movie featured Tiger Shroff, Shraddha Kapoor, and Sudheer Babu in lead roles. The second instalment, 'Baaghi 2', came out in the year 2018. Directed by Ahmed Khan, it was a remake of the Telugu movie 'Kshanam'. This film starred Tiger Shroff alongside Disha Patani, Manoj Bajpayee, and Randeep Hooda. In 2020, 'Baaghi 3' was released, again directed by Ahmed Khan. It starred Tiger Shroff, Riteish Deshmukh, and Shraddha Kapoor in the lead roles. (ANI) By Alimat Aliyeva The DPRK has launched a ballistic missile, likely of medium-range. This marks Pyongyang's first missile launch of 2025, Azernews reports. According to South Korean sources, the missile was launched from the Pyongyang area towards the Sea of Japan. The missile landed outside Japan's exclusive economic zone, NHK reported. Kyodo News, citing a government source, also confirmed that the ballistic missile fired by North Korea landed outside Japan's exclusive economic zone. The source further stated that, as of now, there has been no reported damage to Japan as a result of this launch. Japan's Maritime Security Service reported the launch of the suspected ballistic missile on Monday. Six minutes later, the service updated the public, stating that the missile had already fallen. They urged naval vessels to report any fragments they may find without approaching them directly. In a related development, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Seoul on January 6, amid heightened concerns over North Korea's missile activities. His visit underscores the growing diplomatic efforts to address regional security issues and North Korea's missile provocations. This launch comes at a time of increasing tension in the region, with North Korea's missile tests contributing to instability in the Asia-Pacific. The global community, especially the United States, Japan, and South Korea, is closely monitoring Pyongyang's actions as part of ongoing efforts to curb the threat posed by the DPRK's missile and nuclear programs. Despite winning a Golden Globe for his performance in 'A Different Man', the actor Sebastian Stan feels that playing Donald Trump in 'The Apprentice' was the hardest role of his career. Stan won his first Golden Globe on Sunday in Best Actor Male Actor Comedy or Musical for 'A Different Man.' It was one of two nominations for the actor which also includes his performance in the category of Best Actor Feature Drama for playing Trump in The 'Apprentice.' As per Deadline, when the actor was asked about his toughest role yet, the actor replied that "the man in orange" was the hardest character for him to play. Stan called playing a Trump "a big risk" and "in itself really difficult." "The responsibility I carried, it was about The Apprentice, wanting to do the best I can to honour Ali Abbasi's vision," said Stan. 'The Apprentice' is a biographical film that examines Donald Trump's career as a real estate businessman in New York City in the 1970s and 1980s. It was directed by Ali Abbasi and starred Jeremy Strong, Martin Donovan and Maria Bakalova in the prominent roles. Meanwhile, Stan's role as a disfigured man who undergoes facial reconstruction surgery in the movie 'A Different Man' garnered him a first Golden Globe award. Stan emerged victorious in a competitive category, beating nominees Jesse Eisenberg (A Real Pain), Hugh Grant (Heretic), Gabriel LaBelle (Saturday Night), Jesse Plemons (Kinds of Kindness), and Glen Powell (Hit Man).The actor delivered an emotionally charged acceptance speech, dedicating the award to his family. "This is for my mom, who left Romania in search of a better life and gave me everything. And for my stepfather, Tony, who took on a single mom and a grown-up kid--thank you for being a real man," he said. Stan also gave a heartfelt shoutout to his partner, Annabelle Wallis, saying, "Annabelle, I love you." He took the moment to reflect on the film's themes, advocating for inclusivity and awareness. "Our ignorance and discomfort around disability and disfigurement has to end now. We need to normalize it and encourage acceptance," he said in his acceptance speech. Stan turned heads on the red carpet in a sophisticated tailcoat, exuding timeless charm. (ANI) Reacting to BJP's candidate Ramesh Bidhuri's 'controversial' remarks on Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Sunday called his statement "petty" and said that political parties shouldn't get into these things. Tharoor further stated that people should behave with respect whether they agree with somebody or not. "Frankly, I think this is petty. We shouldn't get into these things. To be very honest, what really matters to us is that people should respect each other and not show each other disrespect in politics. We may have disagreements but that doesn't mean there should be any disrespect expressed. I think that people should behave with mutual respect whether they agree with somebody or not. We are not going around saying such things about BJP people, they should not be saying this about our side either," Tharoor told ANI. BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri had sparked a row with 'controversial' remarks on Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. AAP MP Sanjay Singh on X shared his video, where Bidhuri stated that they would make all the roads in Kalkaji like the "cheeks of Priyanka Gandhi" if BJP comes to power. Meanwhile, Bidhuri on Sunday expressed regret over his controversial remarks about Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra amid Congress outrage. Speaking to ANI, Bidhuri clarified that his comments were made in the context of remarks by RJD supremo Lalu Yadav and emphasized that the Congress party had remained silent when similar statements were made during his tenure as chief minister of Bihar. "Such statements have been made before. I have said that in the context of what Lalu Yadav had said. Congress remained silent on that even when he (Lalu Yadav) was a minister in their govt. If anyone is hurt by my remark, I express regret over it and I take my words back," the BJP leader said. Lalu Prasad Yadav once made a notable promise during a rally in Bihar. He vowed to make roads in the state as smooth as the cheeks of actor-turned-politician and BJP MP Hema Malini. Congress leader Supriya Shrinate strongly criticised the BJP candidate, terming the remark as "shameful," and accused the BJP of fostering an anti-women mindset. Taking to X, Shrinate said that Bidhuri's statement against Congress Lok Sabha MP from Wayanad was not only shameful but also showed his "disgusting" mentality towards women. The assembly elections in Delhi are likely to be held in February 2025. Congress, which was in power in Delhi for 15 successive years, has performed poorly in the past two assembly polls, failing to win any seat. AAP won 62 out of the 70 seats in the 2020 assembly elections and BJP secured eight seats. (ANI) In a post on X the CM wrote, "I am saddened by the passing away of the country's senior litterateur, Na. D'Souza. Na. D'Souza, who was involved in the fight for environmental protection along with literary cultivation, is a writer of popular concern. I share in the grief of Na. D'Souza's family and fans." Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP and former Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai also paid tributes to the veteran writer. Taking to social media X, Bommai wrote in a post "I was deeply saddened to hear the news of the demise of veteran writer Na. D'Souza, who was a recipient of the Kendra Sahitya Akademi Award." Further, he wrote that the writer had made his mark in the Kannada literary world. "He had made his own mark in the Kannada literary world and was elected as the president of the 80th Kannada Sahitya Sammelana in Madikeri, serving Kannada," the post further read. Bommai also said that the Kannada Saraswat world had become poorer with the death of D'Souza. "The Kannada Saraswat world has become poorer due to his passing. I pray that God will give his family and fans the strength to bear the grief of his passing, and grant eternal peace to his soul.Om Shanti," the post further read. The writer passed away at the age of 87 in Mangaluru. D'Souza was a prolific literary figure whose work explored the themes of social justice, human relationships and existential dilemmas. He also made contributions to the Kannada cinema where his literary works were adapted into critically acclaimed films. The writer, a Sahitya Akademi laureate, had also served as the president of the 80th Kannada Sahitya Sammalena which was held in Madikeri. The writer's works include 40 novels, short stories and children's literature, making a total of 94 published books. Some of his notable work include Kadina Benki, Dweepa, Baluvali, Antharya and Bettada Puradaditta Makkalu. The writer's contributions to literature have left an inedible mark on the Kannada literature. (ANI) In a recent operation, the Central Delhi Police detained nine Bangladeshi nationals over the past six days. Seven of the individuals were arrested from a hotel in the Nabi Karim area of Central Delhi. Reports said that some of the detainees had entered India using tourist visas, while others had illegally crossed the border through the "donkey route" passing through West Bengal and Tripura before reaching Delhi. With this operation, a total of 14 Bangladeshi nationals have now been detained by the Central Delhi Police, and they have been sent to the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) for further processing and investigation. M Harshavardhan, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) for Central Delhi, confirmed the operation and the arrests, highlighting the ongoing efforts of the police to curb illegal immigration and maintain law and order in the region. On Saturday, Delhi Police, during a verification drive apprehended a Bangladeshi national residing illegally in the South West District of the national capital for the past three years, police officials said. The accused, identified as Md Sahidul Islam, was taken into custody by the Palam Village Police Station and subsequently handed over for deportation to Bangladesh through the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO). According to the police, the accused failed to produce valid documents and admitted to being an illegal migrant. He was also found to be in possession of photocopied documents from Bangladesh. The verification drive was conducted to identify 'illegal immigrants' from Bangladesh, following orders from Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, said Madhup Tiwari, Special Commissioner of Police (Law and Order). Meanwhile, another two Bangladeshi nationals who had been illegally residing in the national capital were apprehended and deported by the Delhi Police during two separate verification drives by the South West District Police. One of the illegal immigrants was identified as Lovely Khatoon Islam, a resident of Shankar Pur, Rajshahi, Bangladesh, who had been living here in Delhi for the past four years. In another drive launched by the staff of the Vasant Kunj South Police Station, another illegally residing Bangladeshi national was apprehended and deported to Bangladesh. The illegal immigrant identified as Md Bablu, a resident of Demra village in Dhaka, Bangladesh, was deported to Bangladesh through the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO). This operation underscores the South West District Police's zero-tolerance approach to illegal immigration and commitment to upholding the rule of law. (ANI) The Tamil Nadu Assembly on Monday witnessed high drama on its first day of the winter session as the opposition parties were holding protests at the Secretariat against the alleged Anna University sexual assault case. MLAs and leaders from the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) were holding placards and banners protesting against the alleged sexual assault case, demanding justice for the students of the university. Additionally, the president of the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), G K Mani, along with their members, also walked out of the assembly in protest. Mani expressed dissatisfaction with the Tamil Nadu government''s response to the Anna University incident, stating that the government had not taken appropriate steps. "In the Anna University issue, the government didn''t take proper steps. We strongly condemn whoever protests against the Anna University issue; they have been detained," the PMK president said. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi left the Secretariat in response to the alleged disrespect to the National Anthem and boycotted the Governor''s annual address, which typically marks the beginning of the legislative session. According to a statement from the office of Raj Bhawan, upon the Governor''s arrival at the assembly, only "Tamil Tai Vazhdu," the state anthem, was sung instead of the national anthem, which is traditionally played during such occasions. Tamil Nadu Congress President K Selvaperunthagai expressed strong views on the matter, criticising the governor for not accepting any resolutions passed by the Assembly. The Congress and the DMK protested against the act even as the assembly speaker continued to read out the translated version of the governor''s address. "The governor is against the Tamil Nadu people, against the police. He doesn''t accept any resolution from the assembly... The only thing I can say is that the vice-chancellor of Anna University has not been appointed, and hence we are protesting," Selvaperunthagai said. Shortly after the governor left, the AIADMK began protesting against the alleged sexual assault, and the speaker ordered marshals to evacuate the protesting MLAs. This session promises to be challenging for the ruling DMK government. Various political parties have cornered the government on the Anna University sexual assault case, accusing the DMK government of going slow on the case. (ANI) Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) Working President, MLA and Former Minister KT Rama Rao (KTR) on Monday reached the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) office in Hyderabad for questioning in a money laundering case over alleged financial irregularities linked to the Formula-E race held in Hyderabad in February 2023. Speaking to ANI, KT Rama Rao alleged that the ACB is not allowing his advocates to accompany him to the ACB office. "I am here as a law-abiding citizen respecting the honourable high court, respecting anit corruptions bureaus direction to appear before them. They are not allowing my advocates, not allowing me to have my rights. All I am seeking of the Anti-corruption Bureau is that they respect the high court judgement. High court in fact has reserved its judgement... all I am asking the ECB is to ensure that my rights are protected as an individual and a citizen. I am entitled to my lawyers being present with me but unfortunately, they seem to have a different opinion. I am a law-abiding citizen therefore I am here but if they don't want to ensure that my rights as a citizen are protected, (I have the) right to walk away," KT Rama Rao said. On December 19, Telangana ACB registered a case against BRS working president and MLA Rama Rao over alleged payments, some of it in foreign currency without approvals, to conduct a Formula-E race in Hyderabad during the previous regime. ED has also registered an enforcement case information report (ECIR) under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) against KTR and others in the case. ED filed the Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) after the Telangana Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) registered a First Information Report (FIR) against the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader KTR and others in the Formula-E funding case. The FIR lists KTR as the primary accused, with senior IAS officer Arvind Kumar and retired bureaucrat BLN Reddy named as the second and third accused, respectively. (ANI) The Uttar Pradesh Police has heightened security measures for a safe and grand Maha Kumbh celebration in 2025. As part of these security measures, personnel are checking all vehicles and identity cards of individuals entering the area. A bomb squad has also been stationed nearby for any eventualities. Speaking to ANI, Jagdish Kaliraman, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Parade Area Kumbh said that the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), and state police are doing daily drills to ensure the safety of people. "Our random checks are ongoing. From a security standpoint, we conduct daily drills as instructed by senior officers. The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), and state police are all collaborating on this effort. When anyone enters, we ask for their identification and inquire about where they are coming from and where they will be staying. If any individual appears suspicious, we record their details and verify them with police officials of the state they are from to ensure that they have no criminal record." "Additionally, under the Parade police station, we are checking tents, shelters, and slum areas to verify the backgrounds of the residents and their living situations," ACP Kaliraman said. Uttar Pradesh police has also deployed of thousands of AI-powered CCTVs, underwater drones, and state-of-the-art facilities for visitors and devotees. The Maha Kumbh, held once every 12 years, will conclude on February 26. The main bathing rituals (Shahi Snan) of the Kumbh will take place on January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami). On Sunday, police and paramilitary forces conducted security checks and area domination patrolling to ensure security preparedness in the mela area. Additionally, the Uttar Pradesh government has deployed 40 electric buses for devotees, with 30 more buses expected from Lucknow to ensure seamless transportation across various routes. Meanwhile, an atmosphere of spiritual fervour and devotion has filled the air in Prayagraj as the much-awaited Maha Kumbh Mela draws near. Seers from several major akhadas have already arrived at the campsite, including Niranjani Akhada, Ahwan Akhada, Atal Akhara, Mahanirvani Akhara, Niranjani Akhara and Juna Akhada, the largest Akhada in the Sanyasi tradition. The Mahakumbh is being celebrated after 12 years and over 45 crore devotees are expected for the event. During the Mahakumbh devotees will gather at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, to take a holy dip believed to absolve sins and grant moksha (liberation). (ANI) Thousands of devotees and seers and sages have started arriving at Prayagraj for the upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela. Another seer who has become a center of attraction at the Maha Kumbh 2025 is the Ambassador Baba who arrived at the Mela in hisSaffron coloured Ambassador car. Originally from Madhya Pradesh's Indore, Ambassador Baba is more than 50 years old and has attended four Kumbh Melas in his ambassador car. The seer's ambassador car is of the model 1972 and has been with him since the last 30 to 35 years. "I have attended the Kumbh mela four times with this car. I sleep and eat in this car. It is more like my life. It took me a total of one and a half days to reach here. The model of the car is 1972 and I have been driving it for 30 to 35 years now..." Ambassador Baba said speaking to ANI. After Maha Kumbh, Ambassador Baba plans to drive down to Banaras followed by Ganga Sagar. "After this Kumbh Mela, I will go to Banaras and from there and from there we will go to Ganga Sagar. I take complete care of it myself and this car does not break down everywhere. Only major problems occur when I am around the mechanic," he further added. The Rudraksh Baba who wears 108 rudraksh garlands which consists of a total of 11,000 rudraksh has also become a center of attraction. The weight of these 11,000 Rudrakshas is more than 30 kg. With the number of Rudraksh on the Baba increasing, he has now become famous by the name of Rudraksh baba. "People know me as the Rudraksh Baba. These 11,000 rudraksh are the rudras of Lord Shiva. I have been wearing these for a very long time now. These rudras were gifted to me by my worshippers... Every seer wears these rudras.." Rudraksh Baba said speaking to ANI. Rudraksh Baba has attracted a large number of devotees and social media influencers who are uploading his videos on social media. (ANI) A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Justice NK Singh adjourned the hearing after it was informed by the Punjab government that the protesting farmers had been persuaded to meet Justice (retired) Nawab Singh, the Chairperson of the High-Powered Committee constituted to negotiate with the protesters. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing the Punjab government, told the bench that the meeting was taking place at 3 pm today, and hoped that a breakthrough would happen. "Somehow, we have been able to persuade the protesting people to meet Justice Nawab Singh who heads the Committee at 3 pm today. We are hopeful that there would be a breakthrough," said Sibal requesting the apex court to adjourn the hearing. Responding to the request, Justice Kant said, "We hope better sense prevails. List this on Friday." The top court was hearing a contempt petition filed against the Punjab Chief Secretary and Director General of Police of Punjab for not complying with the December 20 order of providing medical aid and hospitalisation to Dallewal. Dallewal, the convener of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) has been on a fast-unto-death at the Khanouri border to press the Centre to accept the farmers' demands, including a legal guarantee of minimum support price (MSP) for crops. The top court has been asking the Punjab government to ensure Dallewal gets proper medical aid during fast unto death.(ANI) Madhya Pradesh High Court on Monday instructed the state government that they are free to take necessary action in compliance with the order dated on December 3 on its own level in connection with the toxic waste from Bhopal's Union Carbide Factory site shifted to Pithampur for its safe disposal, an advocate said. "MP High Court in its December 3 order instructed the state government that the toxic waste at Bhopal's Union Carbide Factory should be transported to Pithampur safely and incinerate it. In compliance with the order, the High Court has listed the case today. During the hearing, the state government presented an affidavit before the court in which the government briefed about the steps taken so far," said Naman Nagrath, advocate for petitioners. The government stated in the affidavit that some people were spreading fake information about the waste due to which people unnecessarily get agitated. As a result of which the further action of incineration was not started yet. Additionally, the state government demanded additional time so that the court's order stated on December 3 can be followed. "After the hearing on Monday, the High Court ordered that the state government is free to clear up confusion among the public on its own level. Additionally, instructed the media not to publish fake news about the toxic waste. The state government sought permission from the court to unload containers of the toxic waste shifted to Pithampur from Bhopal. The High Court clearly said that the state government did not need the permission of the Court. The government is free to take necessary action in compliance with the December 3 order, including unloading of the toxic waste by taking decisions on its own level," Nagarth added. The state government sought time of six weeks to follow the order dated Dec 3 on which, the High Court granted that time to the government, Nagrath said. The next hearing into the matter is scheduled on February 18, he added. On December 3, the High Court stated, "...The steps for removal of toxic waste/material shall be taken and sent to the place assigned within four weeks from today (December 3)... If any of the authorities creates any hurdle or impediment regarding compliance of the orders of this Court, the Chief Secretary of the State Government of Madhya Pradesh shall indicate on the next date of hearing so that this Court may take strict action against the said authority." "We hereby make it clear that all the safety measures shall be taken during transportation and disposal of the toxic waste/material," the court stated. (ANI) Drama unfolded in the New Year during the first day of the assembly session in Tamil Nadu over the Anna University sexual assault incident, Speaker Appavu ordered the eviction of AIADMK MLAs from the assembly hall, and BJP and PMK walked out from the assembly session condemning the government on the Anna University incident on Monday. AIADMK MLAs staged a protest carrying placards at the gate of the Secretariat demanding justice for students in the Anna University sexual assault case. While speaking with the press, Leader of the Opposition Edappadi Palaniswami said, "We have doubts in the Anna University case, so only on behalf of AIADMK did our women advocates go to the court. Ganja and drug peddling have increased today from villages to big cities. It could have been avoided, but today Tamil Nadu has become a drug state. All have become addicted to drugs. Youth are affected a lot. Because of drugs, women are facing sexual harassment. Only in this government are children to elder women facing sexual harassment. Ashamed to see Tamil Nadu's situation under this government. Governor speech has turned into speaker speech. We have these placards... Why this government is getting tense. Sexual assault accused should be made to stand before the law." BJP MLA Vanathi Srinivasan said, "We also walked out. We don't believe that a fair investigation is happening in the Anna University sexual assault case, so our floor leader also raised the issue, and we also have walked out. What is this blaming of no vice chancellor for the Anna University? Let's say it's inside, but I'm asking are there no crimes happening outside? Who is responsible for that? This is just a diversion that they are doing. We also need to know Who is that, sir? We need a fair investigation. We are insisting in this case because the accused is very close to the powerful ministers and even the deputy CM. So we want a CBI inquiry into this". AIADMK MLA C. Vijayabhaskar said, "Everybody wants the same thing: Who is the sir? In Anna University we all know what happened very well. Contradictory statements from the law minister and commissioner also. Someone else is involved. The government is hiding because they are connected. We want a transparent investigation. A CBI inquiry. An SIT has been constituted by the Madras High Court after a petition was moved by our advocate Varalakshmi. This is what we need. Today in Assembly our LoP raised this issue, and we have walked out. No politicising here. It's clearly stated that a student is affected here. One of our oldest universities. Parents are upset and scared to send their female children for higher education. That's why justice is needed at this point. No strategy. We have raised our voice for the affected child. We will continue to protest". PMK MLA G K Mani said, "PMK walks out from assembly. In Anna University, the government didn't take proper steps. We strongly condemn whoever protests against the Anna University issue; they have been detained, which is unacceptable." This session promises to be challenging for the ruling DMK government. Various political parties have cornered the government on the Anna University sexual assault case, accusing the DMK government of going slow on the case. (ANI) NCP SP leader Sharad Pawar wrote to Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis regarding the Santosh Deshmukh murder case and its repercussions throughout Maharashtra. He requested the Chief Minister to ensure safety and security for all public representatives protesting the death of Santosh Deshmukh in Beed. Earlier, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that none of the accused in the Beed sarpanch murder case would be spared, emphasizing his focus on justice over political controversies. "We will not spare any accused. We will find them. Today, I discussed the matter with Santosh Deshmukh's brother over the phone and assured him that the police will identify the guilty and ensure they are punished. The police will act based on evidence, and those against whom evidence is found will not be spared. I do not wish to be involved in the politics surrounding this case," the Maharashtra CM said. Last week, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde called the murder of a sarpanch in Beed district "unfortunate" and said that a special investigation team (SIT) has been formed to probe the matter. He assured that action would be taken against the accused. Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed district, was murdered on December 9 after he allegedly opposed an extortion attempt targeting an energy firm installing windmills in the area. The extortion attempt was reportedly led by local leader Vishnu Chate, who demanded Rs 2 crore from the company. Deshmukh's intervention allegedly led to his abduction, torture, and subsequent murder. The police have filed three FIRs in connection with the case: one for Deshmukh's abduction and murder, another for assault on a windmill firm's security guard by locals, and a third for the Rs 2 crore extortion bid targeting the firm. So far, three people have been arrested in the case. One of the accused, identified as Valmiki Karad, has also surrendered. According to the FIRs, Sudarshan Ghule and Prateek Ghule were involved in an altercation with a security guard at the project site. Vishnu Chate has also been arrested in connection with the extortion case. (ANI) Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari paid floral tributes to Guru Gobind Singh at Sarvtobhadra Chowk of City Palace. She said that the story of sacrifice, sacrifice and bravery of Guru Gobind Singh would always inspire everyone. On this occasion, the Deputy CM also worshiped at the historical sword of Guru Gobind Singh enshrined in the City Palace of Jaipur. On the occasion of Prakash Parv of Guru Gobind Singh, his personal sword has been kept at Sarvto Bhadra Chowk of City Palace for the visitors, tourists and general public to see. It is noteworthy that Guru Gobind Singh had spent some time in Nahan in Sirmour district of Himachal Pradesh. While leaving Nahan, he presented his personal sword to the then ruler as a souvenir. Rajmata Padmini Devi, who is from Nahan, brought the sword to Jaipur a few years ago. Taking to social media X, Diya Kumari wrote in a post "Today, on the 358th Prakash Parv of Shri Guru Gobind Singh, I paid my obeisance to Guru by offering floral tribute to his picture at Sarvatobhadra Chowk in the City Palace and had the privilege of worshipping Guru Ji's historic sword (Shri Saheb) situated in the City Palace. Further, the Deputy CM wrote that the saga of sacrifice, martyrdom and valour of Guru Gobind Singh inspired people. "The saga of sacrifice, martyrdom and valour of Shri Guru Gobind Singh will always inspire us. The saga of sacrifice, martyrdom and valour of Shri Guru Gobind Singh is one of the inspirational chapters of Indian history. Guru Sahib not only served religion, justice and humanity in his life, but he also fought for the rights of the oppressed in the society," the post further read. Earlier today, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi also celebrated Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti. Taking to social media X, the PM wrote in a post "I bow to Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji on his birth anniversary. His thoughts inspire us to create a progressive, prosperous and compassionate society." (ANI) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami made a courtesy call to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi and invited him to the National Games organized in Uttarakhand. The Chief Minister presented a shawl of Malari (Chamoli) and a replica of Narayan Ashram to the Prime Minister. The Chief Minister expressed gratitude on behalf of the people of the state for the leadership, guidance, and cooperation of the Prime Minister in the development of the state. The Chief Minister informed the Prime Minister about the development works being carried out in the state. According to a statement from the CM's office, "Work is going on at a fast pace on the first phase of the Rishikesh-Karnprayag rail project. The survey work of the Tanakpur Bageshwar rail project has been completed. I request the approval of this project and the full financial expenditure of the project to be borne by the Central Government." The Chief Minister requested to close the old railway station of Rishikesh for the proposed basic development works in Rishikesh and to operate all the trains from the new Yoga Nagari railway station in Rishikesh. "The rail track on the land of the old station can be used for the new road system, which will improve traffic." The Chief Minister, while giving information about the progress of Jal Jeevan Mission in Uttarakhand, urged to direct the concerned to release the remaining amount of the central contribution allocated in the Jal Jeevan Mission soon. The Chief Minister expressed gratitude for selecting Rishikesh as an iconic city in river rafting and requested to provide resources from the central level for the Haridwar-Rishikesh Ganga Corridor and Sharda Corridor project in view of the limited resources of the state. The Chief Minister informed the Prime Minister that an MoU is proposed in collaboration with the Iceland Embassy for the exploitation of geothermal energy in the state. "The necessary no objection letter has been received from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and Ministry of External Affairs of the Government of India on this MoU," the press reease stated. The Chief Minister requested to provide all technical and financial support to the state government for this project so that Uttarakhand can play an important role in achieving the goal of carbon net zero by the year 2070. The Chief Minister also requested to direct the concerned for the approval of the proposals sent to the Ministry of Road Transport, Rishikesh Bypass, Haridwar Bypass (Package 2), Dehradun - Mussoorie Connectivity, Dehradun Ring Road, Champawat Bypass, Lalkuan, Haldwani and Kathgodam Bypass and Manaskhand Project. (ANI) The Supreme Court on Monday posted for hearing on March 25, a batch of pleas against the acquittal of Surendra Koli, accused in the 2005-06 Noida Nithari killings. A bench of Justices BR Gavai and Augustine George Masih directed its registry to summon the trial court records in other connected matters expeditiously and supply its copies to the lawyers appearing in the matter. At the outset, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), told the bench that the case was over the "very serious and gruesome" killings in Nithari, Uttar Pradesh. In 2024, the top court agreed to examine separate pleas filed by the CBI, Uttar Pradesh government and Pappu Lal, father of one of the victim girls, challenging the Allahabad High Court's order of acquitting businessman Moninder Singh Pandher and his domestic help Surendra Koli. Mehta had earlier told the apex court that Koli was a serial killer who used to lure young girls and kill them. He had said the killings were "gruesome" and there were accusations of cannibalism and the trial court had awarded the death penalty to Koli, but the same had been reversed by the Allahabad High Court. The Allahabad High Court had in October 2023 acquitted Pandher and his domestic help Surendra Koli in some of the cases concerning the Nithari killings and overturned the death penalty imposed on them by the trial court. It had acquitted Koli in 12 cases and Pandher in two cases, where they were earlier held guilty of murder and awarded the death penalty by the trial court in these cases. The CBI had registered 16 cases against Koli and Pandher over the rape and killing of girls that had shocked the nation. The case came to public attention in December 2006, when skeletons were discovered in a drain near a house in Nithari village, Noida. Pandher was the owner of the house and Koli was his domestic help. Koli was made accused in all of the cases on various charges including murder, abduction, rape, and the destruction of evidence. However, Pandher was named in six of them. Koli was convicted of committing multiple rapes and murders of various girls and was sentenced to death in more than 10 cases. (ANI) Delhi Chief Minister Atishi accused the BJP of attempting to manipulate voter data in the New Delhi Assembly by deleting and wrongly adding thousands of voters through fraudulent applications. "BJP is snatching the right to vote from the citizens. They are doing a huge election scam in the New Delhi Assembly. BJP is attempting to manipulate voter data by deleting and adding thousands of votes incorrectly." she said. Atishi further alleged a large-scale electoral scam in the New Delhi Assembly, citing over 10,000 applications for voter additions and 6,167 deletions between October 29, 2024, and January 2, 2025. "More than 10,000 applications for making votes came in New Delhi Assembly between 15 December 2024 and 02 January 2025.6,167 applications were filed in New Delhi Assembly between 29 October 2024 and 02 January 2025 to get votes cut. It is clear that a very big electoral scam is being carried out in the New Delhi Assembly," she said. Delhi CM claimed this is part of a conspiracy to manipulate voter data, with 10 percent of votes being added and 5 percent deleted. "When summary revision was going on - when booth level officers of election commission were going door to door, why they (voters) were not shifted? It's clear that a conspiracy is being going on to cut the votes, in a wrong way... 10% votes to be added and 5 % to be deleted - this is the conspiracy that is going on..," she said. This came after Aam Aadmi Party national convenor Arvind Kejriwal wrote a letter to the District Electoral Officer of New Delhi alleging an "unusual spike" in voter addition and deletion applications in the New Delhi Assembly Constituency in recent days. "I am writing to bring to your immediate attention a significant rise in the number of voter addition and deletion applications received in the New Delhi Assembly Constituency over the past few days," the letter dated December 28 reads. The assembly elections in Delhi are likely to be held in February 2025. Congress, which was in power in Delhi for 15 successive years, has performed poorly in the past two assembly polls, failing to win any seat. Aam Aadmi Party had won 62 out of 70 seats in the 2020 assembly elections. In the assembly elections held in 2015, it came to power with full majority by winning 67 out of 70 seats. (ANI) In the wake of two human metapneumoviruses (HMPV) cases in Karnataka, Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj on Monday asked the Health and Family Welfare Department to make all required arrangements in Delhi. In the order, Bharadwaj said that all hospitals should be completely prepared to handle any potential increase in respiratory illness as per the advice of the Union Health Ministry. "The Health and FW Department should contact the Union Health Ministry to get timely updates about preparedness in the capital. There is no need to delay action, bring issues to me immediately over the phone if directives are needed. It is important that the Hospitals of the Government of NCT of Delhi should be well-equipped to handle any potential increase in respiratory illness as per the advice of Union Health Ministry," the Minister said. The Delhi Health Minister also directed the Delhi Health Secretary to inspect three hospitals daily and submit reports. "The health secretary will report the Essential Drug List (EDL), medicine and ICU bed availability, condition of equipment, and PSA (Pressure Swing Adsorption) plants," he said. Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has confirmed detection of two cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka, identified through routine surveillance for respiratory viral pathogens. Health Ministry said in a release has stated that these cases were detected as part of ICMR's ongoing efforts to monitor and control respiratory illnesses across the country. HMPV is a respiratory virus that is already circulating globally, including in India. It has been associated with respiratory illnesses in various countries, although there has been no unusual surge in cases in India. The ICMR emphasised that despite the detection of these two cases, there has been no significant increase in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases in the country. One of the affected individuals is a three-month-old female infant, who was diagnosed with HMPV after being admitted to Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru. She had a history of bronchopneumonia and was discharged after receiving treatment. The second case involves an eight-month-old infant who tested positive for HMPV on January 3, 2025, following his admission to Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru, also with a history of bronchopneumonia. This infant is currently recovering and is in stable condition. Neither of the infants had any international travel history, suggesting that the cases are local and not connected to outbreaks outside the country. (ANI) An eleven-member SIT probe is investigating the murder of Chhattisgarh journalist Mukesh Chandrakar. Four arrests have been made so far but the reason behind such a heinous crime is still to be found. While speaking to ANI, Chhattisgarh Deputy CM Vijay Sharma emphasised on bringing the actual reason behind such crime to the fore. He said, "It must have been so painful for him. The law and order situation across the state is under control but the reason and conspiracy behind the murder should be found out." He further added, "Mukesh Chandrakar was one of my favourite journalists and was also a very bright journalist. It is very sad the way he has been murdered. Police arrested three criminals earlier and fourth one, key accused in this case has also been arrested from Hyderabad and brought to Bijapur. Their accounts and unauthorised addresses have been sealed and the investigation is underway. An 11-member SIT probe is underway in this murder case." Earlier, police arrested the main suspect in journalist Mukesh Chandrakar's murder case. The suspect had been on the run since the crime and has now been detained, an official said. According to the Bastar Police, the accused identified as Suresh Chandrakar, was apprehended in Hyderabad on Sunday night by the Special Investigation Team (SIT). Authorities are currently questioning him. Mukesh Chandrakar was brutally murdered, and his body was found in a septic tank on the property of private contractor Suresh Chandrakar. Police have already arrested three individuals--Ritesh Chandrakar, Dinesh Chandrakar, and Mahendra--in connection with the murder. The search for a Bijapur-based journalist, who had been missing since January 1, ended tragically when his body was found in a septic tank on the premises of a private contractor in the district on Friday. Mukesh Chandrakar was one of the interlocutors who played a key role in the release of a CRPF constable abducted by Naxals after an encounter in Bijapur in 2021. He was actively covering Naxal attacks, encounters, and other issues in Bastar. (ANI) Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao on Monday condemned the Naxal attack in Bijapur district, where nine people, including eight District Reserve Guard (DRG) jawans and one driver, lost their lives in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast. Sao described the attack as a "cowardly action" driven by Naxals' "desperation and disappointment," and assured that the sacrifice of the jawans would not go in vain. "Information about a cowardly attack by Naxalites has come from Bijapur. I express condolences to the jawans' families. This is a cowardly action...As jawans are working towards eliminating Naxals, they have done this out of desperation and disappointment. The sacrifice of the jawans won't go in vain," Sao said while speaking to reporters. Nine people, including eight Dantewada District Reserve Guard (DRG) jawans and one driver, lost their lives after their vehicle was blown up by an IED planted by Naxals in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district. According to Bastar Inspector General (IG) Sundarraj P, the jawans were returning from a joint operation of Dantewada, Narayanpur and Bijapur police when the blast occurred. "For the last three days, anti-Naxalite operations have been ongoing in the Narayanpur, Dantewada, and Bijapur regions. During this operation, we had recovered the bodies of five Naxals, and one jawan had lost his life. When the team was returning, in Bijapur's Ambeli area, an IED blast was carried out by Naxals. Eight Dantewada DRG jawans and one driver lost their lives in the attack," IG Sundarraj said. Following the incident, Chhattisgarh Assembly Speaker and former Chief Minister Dr Raman Singh also expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased jawans. "Whenever big operations take place against them, these Naxalites come down to cowardly attack... I express my condolences to the families of the jawans who lost their lives in this attack...The big step that the Chhattisgarh government and central government are taking will take this step forward further," Singh said. (ANI) After sending a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a request to rename India Gate as "Bharat Mata Dwar", BJP Minority Wing Chief Jamal Siddiqui said on Monday that the step would send a positive message and everyone will wholeheartedly accept this. Speaking to ANI, Siddiqui asserted that India Gate is a symbol of India's identity on the global stage. "We have requested the Prime Minister to recognize that India Gate is not just a monument but a symbol of India's identity on the global stage. This identity should resonate with our heritage, and renaming it to 'Bharat Mata Dwar' would send a positive message. The names of countless martyrs are engraved on the structure, and this would also be a tribute to them," he said. "Visitors from across the world would carry this meaningful message with them. That is why we requested the Prime Minister, just as he replaced the statue of King George V--something that was not accomplished during Congress's 70 years in power--with a statue of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, inspiring the youth with a fresh message," he added. The BJP leader further claimed that PM Modi will soon fulfil this demand. "No one should have objections to this. I believe everyone will wholeheartedly accept this, and PM Modi will soon fulfil this demand," Jamal Siddiqui said. Earlier, in his letter, Siddiqui highlighted several initiatives undertaken during PM Modi's tenure that aim to heal wounds inflicted during the colonial era and strengthen Indian cultural identity. "The way wounds inflicted by the Mughal invaders and plundering British have been healed and the stains of colonialism have been wiped clean during your tenure has brought joy across the nation," he said. In 2022, PM Modi inaugurated the renamed Kartavya Path, replacing the colonial-era name "Kingsway." During the inauguration, PM Modi said, "A new era has begun in the form of Kartvya Path. Symbol of colonialism 'Kingsway' will be history and has been erased forever. I congratulate all the people of the country as we come out from another symbol of colonialism." (ANI) Aam Aadmi Party national convenor and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday alleged that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) will soon raid the residence of senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia. "I had said a few days ago that Delhi CM Atishi ji will be arrested and some AAP leaders will be raided. According to reliable sources, there will be a CBI raid at Manish Sisodia's house in coming days. BJP is losing the Delhi elections. These arrests and raids are the result of their frustration. So far they have not found anything against us, they will not find anything in the future either. "AAP" is a staunchly honest party," Arvind Kejriwal posted on X. Manish Sisodia has earlier represented the Patparganj seat between 2013-2024. In the 2020 assembly polls, he won the seat by narrow margins. This time he is contesting elections from Jangpura against BJP leader Tarvinder Singh Marwah. The claim comes days after AAP leader Kejriwal predicted the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Atishi. Earlier, CM Atishi accused the BJP of attempting to manipulate voter data in the New Delhi Assembly by deleting and wrongly adding thousands of voters through fraudulent applications. "BJP is snatching the right to vote from the citizens. They are doing a huge election scam in the New Delhi Assembly. BJP is attempting to manipulate voter data by deleting and adding thousands of votes incorrectly," she said. Atishi further alleged a large-scale electoral scam in the New Delhi Assembly, citing over 10,000 applications for voter additions and 6,167 deletions between October 29, 2024, and January 2, 2025. "More than 10,000 applications for making votes came in New Delhi Assembly between 15 December 2024 and 02 January 2025.6,167 applications were filed in New Delhi Assembly between 29 October 2024 and 02 January 2025 to get votes cut. It is clear that a very big electoral scam is being carried out in the New Delhi Assembly," she said. Ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections in February 2025, the battle between the Congress, AAP, and BJP has become intense, with these three parties levelling allegations against each other. The assembly elections in Delhi are due in February, and the dates for the same are expected to be announced in a few days. (ANI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed his condolences on the death of nine people, including eight Dantewada District Reserve Guards (DRG), who were killed after their vehicle was blown up by Naxals through an improvised explosive device (IED) blast in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district on Monday. In a post on X, Union Home Minister assured that the sacrifice of the soldiers will not go in vain and vowed to end Naxalism in India by March 2026. "I am deeply saddened by the news of the loss of DRG soldiers in an IED blast in Bijapur (Chhattisgarh). I express my deepest condolences to the families of the brave soldiers. It is impossible to express this grief in words, but I assure you that the sacrifice of our soldiers will not go in vain. We will end Naxalism from the land of India by March 2026," Shah wrote in a post on X in Hindi. https://x.com/AmitShah/status/1876240421866938665 Earlier in the day, nine people, including eight Dantewada DRG jawans and one driver, lost their lives after their vehicle was blown up by Naxals through an IED blast in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Monday observed a minute's silence in an event in Raipur as a mark of tribute to the nine people, including eight Dantewada District Reserve Guard (DRG) jawans, who died in an IED blast by naxals in Bijapur. Speaking to mediapersons, Chhattisgarh CM said, " 8 jawans were returning from the search (operation) and their vehicle came under the IED blast. All 8 jawans and the driver lost their lives. I salute them for their sacrifice...their sacrifice won't go in vain. Naxals have lost their minds as their plans are failing continuously and that's why they carried out this cowardly attack. In the end, naxalism will be wiped out from Chhattisgarh..." Reacting to the incident, Chhattisgarh Deputy CM Vijay Sharma said, "...How did this happen? It is a matter of investigation; investigation will be done and better steps will be taken. Now we will work with much more strength to eliminate naxalism...there is no doubt naxalism will be wiped out. (ANI) Tripura Electricity Minister Ratan Lal Nath has urged the residents of the state to become self-reliant in electricity production and enhance their income instead of solely depending on conventional power generation centers. He made this appeal during a special camp organised under the PM Surya Ghar Mufat Bijli Yojana at the corporate office of Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited on Monday. The camp aimed to facilitate registration, bank loans, and vendor selection for implementing the Surya Ghar project for electricity consumers within the Agartala Municipal Corporation area. Addressing the gathering, Minister Nath praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a visionary leader who anticipates future challenges and takes proactive measures to safeguard citizens. The minister highlighted the dwindling reserves of coal and gas, which will impact conventional electricity production. To address this, the Prime Minister has emphasized solar power, aiming to provide electricity to every household through the Surya Ghar initiative. The project offers a unique opportunity for families to become electricity producers with government subsidies and earn additional income by selling surplus power to electricity corporations. Minister Nath encouraged residents to seize this chance before the subsidies potentially end after 2026. The special camp witnessed participation from officials of government-approved solar panel installation companies, as well as representatives from banks such as State Bank of India, Punjab National Bank, Canara Bank, Tripura Gramin Bank, and Tripura State Co-operative Bank, who were present to provide loans to interested individuals. Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 13, 2024, the PM Surya Ghar Mufat Bijli Yojana aims to generate 500 GW of electricity by 2030, with 200 GW already achieved (40 percent of the target). The project focuses on household rooftop solar power generation and is operational until the 2026-27 fiscal year. It entails a total expenditure of Rs 75,021 crores, with subsidies provided to beneficiaries: For Residential Sector: First 2 kW of solar panels: Rs33,000 subsidy per kW, Next 1 kW (after the first 2 kW): Rs19,800 subsidy per kW, Maximum subsidy for 3 kW: Rs 85,800 and Beyond 3 kW, no subsidy is available. For Housing Societies/Residential Welfare Associations: Solar panels up to 500 kW: Rs 19,800 subsidy per kW. Each household can install solar panels with a maximum capacity of 3 kW. Families can use the electricity generated for personal needs and sell surplus power to Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited. Minister Nath emphasised that the project provides a pathway to significantly reduce or eliminate electricity bills. He also assured residents that officials of Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited would assist interested participants and advised them to contact their nearest electricity office for more details. "Special camps will be organized in various wards of Agartala following Monday's event. Similar initiatives will also be held in Mohanpur Municipality and other urban areas of the state to bring all regions under the PM Surya Ghar Mufat Bijli Yojana," he said. The minister concluded by reiterating the government's commitment to making the state self-reliant in energy and encouraged widespread participation in the scheme. (ANI) Tarsem Singh, the father of 'Waris Punjab De' Chief and independent MP Amritpal Singh on Monday appealed the people of Punjab to come in large numbers at the launch of party on January 14 and said that the regional party will be for saving Punjab and 'panth'. "We appealed to the people of Punjab to come in large numbers at the 'Panthic' gathering at Sri Muktsar Sahib on 14th January. We will be announcing a regional party for saving Punjab and 'panth'...A five-member committee will be formed which will be taking further decisions," Tarsem Singh told ANI. Tarsem Singh, the father of Amritpal Singh is going to launch a political party on January 14. "The party will be launched on January 14 in Sri Muktsar Sahib on the occasion of Maghi. A working committee will be announced which will decide on the party constitution and other things... I appeal to the people of Punjab to support the party and save Punjab from various issues like drugs, conversions, farmers," Tarsem Singh told ANI on January 3. Amritpal Singh, who won the 2024 Lok Sazha elections from Punjab's Khadoor Sahib parliamentary constituency as an independent candidate, is originally a resident of Jallu Kheda village in Amritsar and is currently lodged in jail in Assam's Dibrugarh district. He used to live in Dubai prior to his return to Punjab in 2022, after the death of Punjabi actor Deep Sidhu. After his return, he became the chief of Deep Sidhu's pro-Khalistani organization, Waris Punjab De. He was arrested from Moga's Rode village after he and his supporters on February 23, 2023, staged a protest at the Ajnala police station and clashed with police personnel in an attempt to free one of his aides, who was taken into custody for making inflammatory and pro-Khalistan statements. In the 2024 parliamentary elections, Amritpal Singh won from the Khadoor Sahib seat. He was also granted a four-day custody parole and brought to Delhi for taking oath as a Lok Sabha member. (ANI) Delhi Chief Minister Atishi lashed out at BJP's Ramesh Bidhuri on Monday for his derogatory remarks, which she said disrespected her 80-year-old father, a dedicated teacher who spent his life educating thousands of underprivileged children. Atishi was visibly emotional, with tears in her eyes as she expressed shock and disappointment, questioning Bidhuri's character and wondering if he'd resort to such dirty tactics for electoral gains. " I want to tell Ramesh Bidhuri, that my father was a teacher throughout his life, he has taught thousands of children coming from poor and lower-middle-class families, now he is 80 years old...now he is so ill that he can't even walk without help. Will you (Ramesh Bidhuri) do such a dirty thing for the sake of election? He has come down to the situation where he is abusing an old man. I never thought that this country's politics could stoop so low," she said. Meanwhile, Senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Manish Sisodia on Monday criticised the BJP over the reported objectionable statement made Ramesh Bidhuri, accusing the BJP of encouraging lewd comments about women, particularly women leaders. Sisodia claimed that such behaviour was a reflection of the party's character. Speaking on the comment made by Bidhuri, who has been fielded against Atishi for the Kalkaji constituency seat, Sisodia said, "This is the character of the BJP; whatever Ramesh Bidhuri says, he would not say it without discussing it with his leaders or on the instructions of senior leaders of his party. Earlier on Sunday, Ramesh Bidhuri, addressing a public gathering, made comments on CM Atishi's surname and family, saying, "Atishi, who was Marlena, is now Singh. She has even changed her father." Reacting to the remarks, Arvind Kejriwal took to the social media platform X and said that BJP leaders have crossed "All limits of shamelessness" and are "abusing" Chief Minister Atishi." He further asserted that the people of Delhi will not tolerate this and will give a befitting reply to the BJP in the upcoming assembly polls. "BJP leaders have crossed all limits of shamelessness. BJP leaders are abusing Delhi Chief Minister Atishi ji. The people of Delhi will not tolerate the insult of a woman Chief minister. All the women of Delhi will take revenge for this," posted Kejriwal on X. Bidhuri had earlier sparked another row with 'controversial' remarks on Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. AAP MP Sanjay Singh on X shared a video where Bidhuri stated that they would make all the roads in Kalkaji like the "cheeks of Priyanka Gandhi" if BJP comes to power. (ANI) Expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives of District Reserve Guard (DRG) personnel in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur IED blast earlier on Monday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah reaffirmed Central government's commitment assuring that the sacrifices of these soldiers will not go in vain and Naxalism will be eradicated from Indian soil by March 2026. Shah took to X to extend his condolences to the bereaved families after the news circulated about the tragic incident in which eight personnel of the DRG and their civilian driver lost their lives when Naxalites detonated an improvised explosive device (IED) targeting their vehicle on the Kutru-Bedre road in Bijapur district. "I am deeply saddened by the news of losing DRG personnel in the IED blast in Bijapur (Chhattisgarh). I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the brave soldiers. It is impossible to express this grief in words, but I assure you that the sacrifices of our soldiers will not go in vain. We will eradicate Naxalism from Indian soil by March 2026," Shah said. The attack occurred as the DRG team was returning from an anti-Naxal operation. The powerful explosion completely destroyed the vehicle, leading to the immediate deaths of all nine occupants. This marks one of the deadliest attacks on security forces in the region in recent times. This attack is reminiscent of previous Naxal offensives in the region. Notably, on April 26, 2023, ten police personnel and a civilian driver were killed in a similar IED blast in the neighbouring Dantewada district. The DRG, a specialized unit of the Chhattisgarh Police, comprises local recruits, including surrendered Naxalites, and is at the forefront of anti-Naxal operations in the state. Their intimate knowledge of the terrain and guerrilla tactics has been instrumental in several successful missions against Naxalite insurgents. In response to the attack, security has been heightened across the Bastar division, with additional forces deployed to apprehend the perpetrators. The state government has reiterated its resolve to continue robust operations against Naxal elements to ensure peace and security in the region. (ANI) Following a unverified news report that had claimed that a container of toxic waste from Bhopal's Union Carbide Factory shifted to Pithampur for its disposal went missing, the Dhar district administration deployed police, put barricades and wire fencing at the disposal factory site in Pithampur, Dhar district on Monday, an official said. Dhar Collector Priyank Mishra clarified that the action was taken so that nobody disturbs the atmosphere by creating fake news. The collector assured that every action is being taken under the direction of the court. "Many times we found that there is one person among a hundred, who tries to disturb the environment by presenting misleading information or wrongdoing. As we found out yesterday, a person circulated a misinformation on social media that a truck had disappeared. We have taken strict action against him and we are lodging an FIR against that person. We are doing this so that no such thing deliberately disturbs the atmosphere," the collector told ANI. He further said, "It is not intended that we will start the incineration of the toxic waste by deploying a heavy police force. As said earlier, this entire action is being taken under the direction of the court. So, the issue was put forward before the court and hence the court has given additional time to the state government for it (referring to the incineration of waste)." "No one should be confused that the company has been given protection or any restrictive order has been given to start disposal of waste. The instruction (police deployment and barricades) has been given for the safety of common people," the collector added. During the hearing of the matter before Madhya Pradesh High Court on Monday, the High Court said that the state government was free to take necessary action in compliance with the order dated on December 3, on its own level for the safe disposal of the toxic waste. The state government sought a time of six weeks to follow the order dated Dec 3 on which the High Court granted that time to the government, advocate for petitioners, Naman Nagrath said. The next hearing into the matter is scheduled on February 18, he added. Earlier on December 3, the High Court stated, "...The steps for removal of toxic waste/material shall be taken and sent to the place assigned within four weeks from today (December 3)...If any of the authorities creates any hurdle or impediment regarding compliance of the orders of this Court, the Chief Secretary of the State Government of Madhya Pradesh shall indicate on the next date of hearing so that this Court may take strict action against the said authority." "We hereby make it clear that all the safety measures shall be taken during transportation and disposal of the toxic waste/material," the court stated. (ANI) Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Monday distributed the first increased instalment of Rs 2500 to eligible women under 'Maiya Samman Yojana' in a program organised in at Khoja Toli Army Training Ground in Jharkhand's capital Ranchi. During the Jharkhand Assembly election, Hemant Soren had promised to increase the amount from Rs 1000 to Rs 2500 to each beneficiary. The increased amount will benefit around 56 lakhs women of the state. CM Hemant Soren, addressing the public, emphasised that this step is taken to "empower women." He also added that today there's a "competition" in the country to empower women, referring to similar schemes across country. "It is strange that when half of the population of the country is deprived of development, how can the country develop? Today women work shoulder to shoulder with men but we thought how women can develop. Women and men are like two bulls of the house and both need development. We took steps towards empowering women. Today, there is a competition in the country as to who can empower women in their state. Thank you for the blessings and respect you have given," Hemant Soren said. Reiterating his promise to make women self-reliant, Soren said, "Through this step, we have given the responsibility of development of this state to you people. Today you will move ahead freely to realize your dreams." Replying to opponent criticism, Soren said that he took the first step of giving Rs. 2500 to women after winning the election. "When we had promised to increase the salary from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 2500, our opponents used to make fun of us. We had made the promise before the elections and after the elections were over, we took the first step of giving Rs. 2500 to women," Soren said. "Many political parties make many kinds of promises. We have made electricity free for you, the government is taking the responsibility of your children's education," he added. Increasing the amount of Maiya Samman Yojana to Rs 2500 was the major part of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha's manifesto in the Assembly election and played a major part in helping JMM to steer INDIA bloc to victory with 56 seats out of the 81. The JMM won 34 seats, while its allies secured 22 seats. Among the allies, the Congress won 16 seats, the RJD won four, and the CPI-ML won two seats. The BJP-led NDA won only 24 seats in Jharkhand. The BJP secured 21 seats, while its allies the AJSU party, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), and JD-U won one seat each. Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha won a seat with its chief, Jairam Kumar Mahato, emerging victorious in the Dumri constituency. (ANI) The Supreme Court-Appointed High-Powered Committee on Monday met farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who is on an indefinite hunger strike at the Khanauri border. Dallewal has been on a fast-unto-death since November 26. Speaking on the meeting, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Patiala, Mandeep Singh Sidhu said that farmer leader Dallewal refused to take medical help. "The high-level committee appointed by the Supreme Court reached the Khanauri border and the meeting was very good. They heard the grievances of farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal and requested him to take medical help, but he refused," DIG Sidhu said. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Monday adjourned the hearing for Friday of a plea relating to providing medical aid and hospitalisation of Dallewal. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Justice NK Singh adjourned the hearing after it was informed by the Punjab government that the protesting farmers had been persuaded to meet Justice (retired) Nawab Singh, the Chairperson of the High-Powered Committee constituted to negotiate with the protesters. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing the Punjab government, told the bench that the meeting was taking place at 3 pm today, and hoped that a breakthrough would happen. "Somehow, we have been able to persuade the protesting people to meet Justice Nawab Singh who heads the Committee at 3 pm today. We are hopeful that there would be a breakthrough," said Sibal requesting the apex court to adjourn the hearing. The top court was hearing a contempt petition filed against the Punjab Chief Secretary and Director General of Police of Punjab for not complying with the December 20 order of providing medical aid and hospitalisation to Dallewal. On Thursday, the Supreme Court clarified that its orders to provide medical aid and hospitalisation to farmers' leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, was not to break his fast but for the well-being of his health. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Sudhanshu Dhulia said that Dallewal could continue his hunger strike under medical aid. It said there appears to be a deliberate attempt in the media by Punjab government officers to give an impression that the court is pressuring Dallewal to break the fast. Dallewal, the convener of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) has been on a fast-unto-death at the Khanouri border to press the Centre to accept the farmers' demands, including a legal guarantee of minimum support price (MSP) for crops. The top court has been asking the Punjab government to ensure Dallewal gets proper medical aid during fast unto death. (ANI) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav flagged off 66 medical mobile unit vehicles for 21 districts from the CM house in Bhopal on Monday, aiming to provide health services to remote and backward areas in the state. According to an official statement, lakhs of citizens of 87 development blocks in 21 districts will get health facilities from the initiative. Around 3.12 lakh population of 1268 villages will be benefitted. The vehicle is equipped with GPS and with modern health checkup machines which include, suction machine, ear otoscope, X-ray machine, stretcher, oxygen cylinder etc. The mobile medical unit will visit villages 24 days in a month and provide health facilities to the villagers, the release added. The districts which will be benefited with the initiative includes, Anuppur, Ashoknagar, Balaghat, Chhindwara, Datia, Dindori, Guna, Gwalior, Katni, Mandla, Morena, Narsinghpur, Satna, Shahdol, Sheopur, Sidhi, Shivpuri, Jabalpur, Raisen, Umaria and Vidisha. Additionally, in a post on X, CM Yadav wrote, "Today, I flagged off 66 mobile medical unit vehicles for 21 districts under the 'PM Janaman Yojana' at Samatva Bhavan, CM House in Bhopal. These vehicles will be a boon for prevention of serious diseases in remote areas by conducting tests and treatment." "The 'PM Janaman Yojana' started under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has ensured the welfare of the specially backward tribal people across the country. In the same sequence, we are determined to make the lives of the specially backward tribal people happy by providing better health facilities in Madhya Pradesh, the CM further added in the post. Earlier, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav inaugurated a Drone Training Centre at the Arts and Commerce College in Indore, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision to make India the global leader in drone technology by 2030. "The Flying Club has decided to establish a Drone Training Institute here. I congratulate them on this initiative... As PM Modi has said, by 2030, India will become the capital of drone technology in the world. The Madhya Pradesh government is fully committed to advancing drone technology, and I have encouraged them (Flying Club) to collaborate with IIT Bhopal to make this technology accessible to women, youth, and farmers so they can also benefit," said CM Yadav. (ANI) With a week left for the Maha Kumbh Mela, the official website of the grand religious congregation is getting a lot of visitors and has been visited by over 33 lakh people from India and 182 other countries. According to a representative of the technical team handling the website of Maha Kumbh, 33,05,667 have visited the website till January 4. "The website has been visited by people from various continents including Europe, Americas and Africa. The visitors belong to 183 countries including India. People from 6,206 cities and towns across the world have visited the website," a representative of the technical team stated. People from the US, Britain, Canada and Germany are among those visiting the website to get information about Maha Kumbh mela. The website was launched by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on October 6 last year and has been very helpful for visitors to get relevant information. Apart from information related to Maha Kumbh, the website also has detailed about the traditions related to the significance of the religious event, spiritual gurus and studies concerning what is regarded as the largest gathering of pilgrims. The Maha Kumbh Mela Authority and the police department have established a high-tech computerized lost-and-found registration centre utilizing AI technology, which is commonly referred to as the 1920 Centre. This Centre will help pilgrims reconnect with their families and friends if they lose their way. It will offer digital registration for lost pilgrims at all locations. Maha Kumbh is being celebrated after 12 years and a huge turnout of devotees is expected in Prayagraj between January 13 to February 26. The district administration has been taking important steps to ensure the safety of the devotees. Pilgrims flock to the Sangam--the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers--to take the holy dip. Nearly 45 crore people are expected to come for the Mahakumbh Mela. (ANI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid obeisance to Guru Gobind Singh on his birth anniversary (also called Prakash Parv) at Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib in the national capital on Monday. Delhi Sikh Gurudwara Management Committee President, Harmeet Singh Kalka demanded the release of 'Bandi Singhs,' who have been jailed for over three decades, after HM Shah's visit to the gurudwara. "On the Prakash Parv of Guru Gobind Singh, HM arrived here and paid obeisance...Sikhs have a demand that our 'Bandi Singhs' who are in jail for 30-32 years be sympathetically contemplated by the Government regarding their release and there should be no politics over it. We have demanded the same," he told ANI. Meanwhile, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar nd Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan also paid their obeisance to Guru Gobind Singh at the Takhat Shri Harimandir in Patna today. Governor Khan extended the wishes to the people of Bihar on this occasion, calling the gurudwara a 'source of inspiration to do sewa.' "I extend best wishes to the people of Bihar and the nation on the occasion of Prakash Parv Mahotsav of Guru Gobind Singh. This place is a source of inspiration for all of us and it inspires us to do sewa," he told ANI. He further demanded that the government should consider renaming Indira Gandhi International Airport to Guru Teg Bahadur airport as a tribute, and also name a university after him too. "We have also spoken about renaming Indira Gandhi International Airport after Guru Teg Bahadur...I think this will be a small tribute to him...It has also been demanded to name one of the universities, being opened in Delhi, after Guru Teg Bahadur," he added. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his wishes on Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti. Taking to social media X, the PM wrote in a post "I bow to Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji on his birth anniversary. His thoughts inspire us to create a progressive, prosperous and compassionate society." January 6 is celebrated as the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh. The 10th Sikh Guru gave the world the Khalsa Panth and is known for his ethics. (ANI) Jan Suraaj leader Prashant Kishor, arrested on early Monday morning over the Bihar Civil Services (BPSC) exam protests, was sent to jail after he refused to sign the conditions of his bail bond. "For 5 days I have been protesting in Gandhinagar but today at 4 am few officials of police came and said we are detaining you, so please come along with us. The behaviour of the police was not wrong. Someone has claimed that a police official slapped me but this is wrong. They took me to AIIMS. From 5-11 am, I was made to sit in the Police vehicle and they kept taking me to different places. Nobody told me where I was being taken even though I asked them multiple times," Kishor told reporters. He further said that after five hours the police took him to conduct the medical tests. "They wanted to get the certificate from doctors. I refused to give my consent because I did not do any criminal activity, I told the doctors this...Police tried to convince the doctors but they refused to give illegal certificates. They recorded my statement that I refused to give a medical test...I was taken to court and I was granted bail but, it is written in the order that I should not do any wrongdoings, so I rejected this bail order, and I accepted to go to jail. This is the fundamental fight. I am ready to go to jail," he added. Kishor was observing a fast-unto-death over BPSC irregularities, launched on January 2 in support of the protesting students, who are demanding a cancellation of the Bihar Public Service Commission exam. Earlier today, YV Giri, Prashant Kishor's Advocate, condemned the police's alleged brutality against Kishor and his supporters, who were peacefully protesting in support of students. Giri claimed the police physically lifted, pushed, and punched the protesters, including Kishor, who was slapped without justification, violating Section 21. "There's a rule of law in our country, and it will take its course, favouring the students, Prashant Kishor, and Jan Suraaj. However, the police have taken the law into their own hands, behaving barbarically without reason. They disrupted a peaceful protest led by Prashant Kishor, where people were fasting and sleeping, by physically lifting, pushing, and punching them. Prashant Kishor was even slapped without justification, violating Section 21," he said. He further asserted that this move appears to be a government attempt to hide the misdeeds of the Bihar Public Service Commission. "The student movement, supported by Prashant Kishor, was disrupted to avoid re-examination. As a result, Prashant Kishor's arrest was made under false pretences. Unfortunately, his current whereabouts are unknown, with reports suggesting he was taken to AIIMS and then relocated to an undisclosed location," Giri said. The Jan Suraaj party in a post on X claimed that Kishor had been detained in Fatuah and accused the Patna police of High-handed behaviour. "Patna police is so scared that they are not even able to bring Prashant Kishor to Patna. He has been kept sitting in a community health centre in Fatuha for hours, " the post on X read. "The police administration tried to break Prashant Kishor's fast by taking him from Gandhi Maidan to AIIMS. After failing to break the fast, the administration is trying to take Prashant Kishore to a new place. The police brutally lathicharged the crowd that had gathered to see Prashant Kishore outside AIIMS," the party further added. (ANI) Rashtriya Janata Dal leader and former Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav on Monday indrectly called Jan Suraaj leader Prashant Kishor "B team" of the Bharatiya Janata Party and said that nobody has anything to do with students. "A story has been written, there is a director, producer, financier, actor and vanity van also. Who is doing this and why are they doing this, we know everything....nobody has anything to do with students, a film is being shown and a narrative is being set, we are fully aware of this...it's a film so watch it...it is the B-team of BJP (who is behind this)," Tejashwi Yadav told ANI. This comes after Jan Suraaj leader Prashant Kishor who was arrested over the Bihar Civil Services (BPSC) exam protests, was sent to jail after he refused to sign the conditions of his bail bond. "For 5 days I have been protesting in Gandhinagar but today at 4 am few officials of police came and said we are detaining you, so please come along with us. The behaviour of the police was not wrong. Someone has claimed that a police official slapped me but this is wrong. They took me to AIIMS. From 5-11 am, I was made to sit in the Police vehicle and they kept taking me to different places. Nobody told me where I was being taken even though I asked them multiple times," Kishor told reporters. He further said that after five hours the police took him to conduct the medical tests. "They wanted to get the certificate from doctors. I refused to give my consent because I did not do any criminal activity, I told the doctors this...Police tried to convince the doctors but they refused to give illegal certificates. They recorded my statement that I refused to give a medical test...I was taken to court and I was granted bail but, it is written in the order that I should not do any wrongdoings, so I rejected this bail order, and I accepted to go to jail. This is the fundamental fight. I am ready to go to jail," he added. Kishor was observing a fast-unto-death over BPSC irregularities, launched on January 2 in support of the protesting students, who are demanding a cancellation of the Bihar Public Service Commission exam. The students are calling for the cancellation of the Integrated Combined (Preliminary) Competitive Examination (CCE) 2024, conducted by the BPSC on December 13, due to alleged question paper leaks. (ANI) Jan Suraaj Party chief Prashant Kishor on Monday was granted 'unconditional bail' by a court in Patna, hours after he was sent to Beur jail for refusing to pay bail bond. Kishor, immediately after being released from the jail, addressed the protesting the Bihar Public Service Commission aspirants and said, "there is no strength bigger than people's strength." He further informed about the whole incident and said that Police took him to Beur jail but they had no documents to keep him there. "Two hours ago, Bihar Police had taken me to Beur jail. Court accepted my demand and granted me unconditional bail...there is no strength bigger than people's strength. This is the effect of the protest we did for people. Prashant Kishor was detained and first I was given conditional bail as per Police but I rejected it and was ready to go to jail. Police took me to Beur jail but they had no documents to keep me there and by then court's final order came. Court took cognisance of our demand and granted unconditional bail," Kishor said. Kishor has extended his support to the protesting students, who are demanding a cancellation of the BPSC exam. He was observing a fast-unto-death over BPSC irregularities. Kishor's advocate Kumar Amit, speaking about the matter said that Jan Suraaj chief should have gotten bail from police station. He suggested that Kishor was taken to several places on 'someone's instruction.' "The allegations that have been levied on him, it is available, as per the guidelines of Supreme Court and amendment in CrPC, he should have got bail from the Police station itself, but don't know on whose instruction, he was taken to several places in Patna for 6-8 hours...and then he was taken to court and in the first round, court may be didn't understand the whole issue and granted him conditional bail but he didn't accept that bail, so I went to court and after sometime court understood the matter and gave unconditional bail," Kumar Amit said. Earlier in the day, Kishor was sent to jail after he refused to sign the conditions of his bail bond. "For 5 days I have been protesting in Gandhinagar but today at 4 am few officials of police came and said we are detaining you, so please come along with us. The behaviour of the police was not wrong. Someone has claimed that a police official slapped me but this is wrong. They took me to AIIMS. From 5-11 am, I was made to sit in the Police vehicle and they kept taking me to different places. Nobody told me where I was being taken even though I asked them multiple times," Kishor told reporters. (ANI) The Union of India, through the Ministry of Law and Justice, notified the appointment of two advocates as judges of the Delhi High Court on Monday. Advocates Ajay Digpaul and Harish Vaidyanathan Shankar have been appointed to the prestigious position. Following the issuance of the notification, Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal took to social media platform X, stating, "In exercise of the power conferred by the Constitution of India, the President of India, after consultation with the Chief Justice of India, is pleased to appoint the following as Judges. I convey my best wishes to them." In a resolution passed in August 2024, the Supreme Court collegium recommended three advocates for appointment as judges of the Delhi High Court. Of these, the Centre has approved the appointments of two advocates as judges of the Delhi High Court. The Collegium noted that the consultee-judge had given a positive opinion regarding Advocate Ajay Digpaul's suitability for appointment as a Judge of the High Court. The Department of Justice's inputs confirmed that the candidate's professional competence was highly regarded, and there were no concerns regarding his integrity. With 31 years of extensive experience across various branches of law, including civil, criminal, constitutional, labour, company, service, and commercial law, the candidate has built a strong practice, particularly in civil and criminal cases. His participation in 42 reported judgments delivered by the High Court underscores his experience. Given these considerations, the Collegium concluded that the candidate is fit and suitable for appointment as a High Court Judge. Regarding Harish Vaidyanathan Shankar, the Collegium stated that the consultee-judge also expressed a positive opinion on his suitability for the High Court bench. The inputs from the Department of Justice reflected his solid professional competence and spotless integrity. Vaidyanathan has an impressive track record, with appearances in 180 reported judgments, showcasing his extensive legal practice. Additionally, his average net professional income over the last five years was Rs 162.16 lakhs per annum. After reviewing all relevant facts, the Collegium determined that he is fit and suitable for appointment as a Judge of the High Court. (ANI) Developed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the BHARATPOL portal will be launched at an event being organised at Bharat Mandapam. It is part of several key initiatives by the central government to strengthen the country's law enforcement capabilities. The portal aims to facilitate Indian LEAs enabling real-time information sharing for faster access to international police assistance. The CBI, as the National Central Bureau (NCB-New Delhi) for INTERPOL in India, facilitates international cooperation in criminal matters in collaboration with various agencies across the country, including law enforcement agencies. At the Central, State, and Union Territory levels, this coordination is executed through INTERPOL Liaison Officers (ILOs), who are further linked to Unit Officers (UOs) at the level of Superintendents of Police, Commissioners of Police and Branch Heads, within their respective organizations. Presently, communications among the CBI, ILOs, and UOs primarily rely on letters, emails and faxes. The growing footprint of transnational crimes including cyber-crime, financial crimes, online radicalization, organized crimes, drug trafficking, human trafficking etc, necessitates rapid and real-time international assistance in criminal investigations. To address this challenge, CBI has developed the BHARATPOL Portal, accessible through its official website, which will bring all the stakeholders on a common platform. The BHARATPOL portal will streamline the processing of all requests for international assistance through INTERPOL, including the issuance of Red Notices and other colour-coded INTERPOL notices. The portal will become a transformative tool for field-level police officers, enhancing their efficiency in dealing with crimes and security challenges. By facilitating easier and faster access to international assistance, it will strengthen India's efforts in combating transnational crimes. In the event, Shah would also be presenting Police Medals to 35 CBI officers/officials, who have been awarded the President's Police Medal for Distinguished Service and the Union Home Minister's Medal for Excellence in Investigation. Several dignitaries and senior officers from various Ministries/Departments including the Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs, DoPT, Central Vigilance Commission and Central Police Organisations will attend the event. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella in the national capital and discussed various aspects of technology, innovation and AI. Nadella said Microsoft is excited to build on the commitment to make India AI-first. "Thank you, PM @narendramodiji for your leadership. Excited to build on our commitment to making India AI-first and work together on our continued expansion in the country to ensure every Indian benefits from this AI platform shift," Nadella said in a post on X. Responding to the post, PM Modi said he was glad to know about Microsoft's ambitious expansion and investment plans in India. "It was indeed a delight to meet you, Satya Nadella! Glad to know about Microsoft's ambitious expansion and investment plans in India. It was also wonderful discussing various aspects of tech, innovation and AI in our meeting," he said in a post on X. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and said that the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership has scaled new heights, including in the areas of technology, defence and space. The Prime Minister said he is looking forward to building upon this momentum in bilateral ties for the benefit of the people of the two countries. "It was a pleasure to meet the US National Security Advisor, @JakeSullivan46. The India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership has scaled new heights, including in the areas of technology, defence, space, biotechnology and artificial intelligence. Look forward to building upon this momentum in ties between our two democracies for the benefit of our people and global good," PM said in a post on X. (ANI) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha said on Monday that the state government is working on a priority basis to strengthen the health care system in the state, as the government has taken an initiative to build a health hub in Tripura. "The state government is trying to further strengthen the health system in the state of Tripura, with the initiative to build a health hub. In order to speed up health services, nurses must establish a good relationship with the patients' families while providing services to the patients," said CM Saha. The CM's comments were made during the oath-taking ceremony of Agartala's Government Nursing College at the IGM Hospital Complex, according to a statement by the CM's office. Additionally, the Chief Minister inaugurated the IT lab at the Nursing College. At the event, the CM, also the Health Minister said the topic of nursing reminds him of Florence Nightingale. "She established the nursing profession as a service-oriented vocation rather than merely a profession. She healed the seriously injured and dying soldiers in the Crimean War through her dedicated service. Some people are born in this world and are forever remembered through their work. One such person was Florence Nightingale, who spread nursing practices worldwide," he said. He further emphasized that the nursing management of any institution must be robust. "Alongside doctors, nurses can enhance the reputation of the institution through their service. There is no substitute for hard work. The students of this nursing institution must move forward, guided by the ideals of Florence Nightingale. One must remember that the work entrusted to me must be done with utmost dedication. Every word of the oath you took today must be upheld and fulfilled with sincerity," said the CM. This year, around 49 students joined the Government Nursing College, according to the CM. "Earlier, securing a seat for a B.Sc. The nursing course was a significant achievement. Today, the college has started with about 50 seats. Previously, there was one dental seat and only 5 to 7 seats for medical courses. Now, the state offers around 400 MBBS seats," the CM said. "The Tripura Medical College authorities have applied for 50 more seats. If approved, the number of medical seats will increase to about 450. An increase in medical students will benefit the state. The IT lab being inaugurated today will also benefit the students," he added. Other dignitaries, including Director of Medical Education Dr H P Sharma, Principal of AGMC Dr Anup Kumar Saha, Additional Secretary of the Health Department Rajiv Dutta, Joint Director of the Health Department Dr Souvik Debbarma, Medical Superintendent of IGM Hospital Dr Debashree Debbarma attended the ceremony. (ANI) Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad on Monday condemned the murder of Chhattisgarh journalist Mukesh Chandrakar and said that this is the murder of democracy. Awadhesh Prasad said, "This is very sad. This is not the murder of a journalist but the murder of democracy. It can be well imagined how much independent the media and democracy are. This incident is very condemnable." An 11-member SIT probe is underway in the murder of Chhattisgarh journalist Mukesh Chandrakar. Four arrests have been made so far but the reason behind such a heinous crime is still to be found. While speaking to ANI, Chhattisgarh Deputy CM Vijay Sharma emphasised bringing the actual reason behind the crime to the fore. He said, "It must have been so painful for him. The law and order situation across the state is under control but the reason and conspiracy behind the murder should be found out." He further added, "Mukesh Chandrakar was one of my favourite journalists and was also a very bright journalist. It is very sad the way he has been murdered. Police arrested three criminals earlier and fourth one, key accused in this case has also been arrested from Hyderabad and brought to Bijapur. Their accounts and unauthorised addresses have been sealed and the investigation is underway. An 11-member SIT probe is underway in this murder case." Earlier, police arrested the main suspect in journalist's murder case. The suspect had been on the run since the crime and has now been detained, an official said. According to the Bastar Police, the accused identified as Suresh Chandrakar, was apprehended in Hyderabad on Sunday night by the Special Investigation Team (SIT). Authorities are currently questioning him. Mukesh Chandrakar was brutally murdered, and his body was found in a septic tank on the property of private contractor Suresh Chandrakar. Police have already arrested three individuals--Ritesh Chandrakar, Dinesh Chandrakar, and Mahendra--in connection with the murder. The search for a Bijapur-based journalist, who had been missing since January 1, ended tragically when his body was found in a septic tank on the premises of a private contractor in the district on Friday. Mukesh Chandrakar was one of the interlocutors who played a key role in the release of a CRPF constable abducted by Naxals after an encounter in Bijapur in 2021. He was actively covering Naxal attacks, encounters, and other issues in Bastar. (ANI) The Rouse Avenue court recently rejected the bail plea of Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB)'s legal officer accused of demanding Rs 40 lakh for facilitating the desealing of two shops in Paharganj area and un-hindered operation of the same. The accused, Vijay Kumar Maggo, was arrested by the CBI in November 8, 2024. During the search at his residence, an unaccounted Rs 3.79 crore was recovered. Special CBI Judge Sudhanshu Kaushik on January 4 dismissed his bail application. The court while dismissing the bail application said that keeping in view the gravity of the offence and the huge unaccounted cash of Rs 3.79 crore recovered from the house of the applicant, in respect of which investigation is still undergoing, no case is made out for releasing the accused on bail. "The possibility of his tampering with the evidence and trying to influence the witnesses cannot be ruled out. I also find force in the submissions of the prosecution that releasing the applicant, at this stage, would send a wrong signal to society. In view of all these factors, bail application stands dismissed," Special Judge Kaushik noted in the order passed on January 4. Counsel for accused contended that he is in custody since November 8, and no purpose would be served by keeping him further detained in custody as the investigation already stands concluded and charge-sheet has been put to the court. While opposing the bail application, Public Prosecutor for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) argued that the applicant was caught red-handed while demanding and accepting the bribe amount of Rs 40 lakh from the complainant on the assurance that he would facilitate the de-sealing of two shops and ensure unhindered operation of the said shops located at Multani Dhanda, Paharganj, New Delhi. He mentioned that these shops were sealed by DUSIB on July 7, 2023 on account of unauthorised construction. He has contended that the bribe amount was demanded by the applicant in the name of Principal Director and other higher officials of DUSIB. He also submitted that the transcripts of the recorded conversations support and corroborate the version of the complainant. He mentioned that although, charge-sheet has been put to the court but charges are yet to be framed. (ANI) After three cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) were reported in India, Maharashtra Health Minister Prakash Abitkar on Monday urged the people of the state to follow the guidelines issued by the Maharashtra Health Department and central government and said that there is "no need to panic." "Due to the patient identified in Bengaluru, many people in Maharashtra are also worried but from the health department, we are appealing to all the people of Maharashtra, don't relate yourself with the patient in Bengaluru. Please keep yourself safe by following the guidelines issued by the Maharashtra Health Department and the central government's health department...there is no need for people to panic," Abitkar told reporters. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation on Monday said that no Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) case has been reported in Mumbai and urged the citizens to take precautions. "Various news has been published in the media regarding the ongoing outbreak of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) virus in China. The Directorate of Health Services, Pune issued a guideline in this regard on January 3, 2025. Information about what to do and what not to do has been given through the guidelines. The information is being given through the Public Health Department of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation that no such patient infected with Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been found in Mumbai city and suburbs. However, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation administration is also appealing to citizens to follow the guidelines," the BMC stated. "It is a seasonal disease that usually occurs in winter and early summer, like RSV and flu. The virus was first detected in the Netherlands in the year 2001. There is no cause for concern regarding the report of Human Metapneumovirus virus detected in China. Necessary precautions are being taken in this regard and there is no need to create an atmosphere of unnecessary panic," the BMC stated. However, as part of the alert, the health department has appealed to citizens to cover their mouth and nose with a handkerchief or tissue paper when they cough or sneeze. "Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitiser. Stay away from public places if you have fever, cough and sneeze. Drink plenty of water and eat nutritious food. Ensure that there is adequate ventilation in all places to reduce transmission," it added The health department urged the people to not shake hands and not reuse tissue paper and handkerchiefs. "Close contact with sick people. Touching your eyes, nose and mouth frequently. Spitting in public places. Taking medicine (self-medication) without consulting a doctor," it stated. Earlier today, Union Health Minister JP Nadda assured the people that there is no need to worry as the health systems and surveillance networks of the country are vigilant and ready to respond promptly to any emerging health challenges. "Health experts have clarified that HMPV is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001 and it has been circulating in the entire world for many years. HMPV spreads through the air, by way of respiration. This can affect persons of all age groups. The virus spreads more during the winter and the early spring months," he said. The Ministry of Health, in a release, has stated that these cases were detected as part of ICMR's ongoing efforts to monitor and control respiratory illnesses across the country. HMPV is a respiratory virus that is already circulating globally, including in India. It has been associated with respiratory illnesses in various countries, although there has been no unusual surge in cases in India. The ICMR emphasised that despite the detection of these two cases, there has been no significant increase in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases in the country. One of the affected individuals is a 3-month-old female infant, who was diagnosed with HMPV after being admitted to Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru. She had a history of bronchopneumonia and was discharged after receiving treatment. The second case involves an 8-month-old male infant who tested positive for HMPV on January 3, 2025, following his admission to Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru, also with a history of bronchopneumonia. Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common respiratory virus that causes an upper respiratory infection. (ANI) Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has said that the organisation of the National Games in Uttarakhand will provide an opportunity to showcase the talent of not only sportspersons but also local artists and people associated with other fields. He said that the state's folk culture will also be promoted through this event. The National Games are scheduled to take place at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Dehradun from January 28 to February 14, 2025, according to an official release. CM Dhami said, "On the instructions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, our government is also working to promote Vocal for Local." 'Adag Adag Agwadi Hit/Preet Badha, Reet Badha' (Adig Hokar Kadam Aage Badha/Pyaar, Saudharma Badha/Parampara Reet Badha). These are the opening lines of the motivational song 'Halla Dhoom Dhadakka' of the National Games. It was composed by the famous Pandavaz Band of Uttarakhand, and has been released. Pandvaz Band has made a special place in the field of Uttarakhandi folk music. The coordination of folk and modern music is the biggest speciality of this band. The government has assigned a special role to the Pandavas band in the promotion of the National Games. The programs of the Pandavas group are being organised during the tour of the National Games torch to various places. Apart from this, Pandavas were given an opportunity for a motivational song. The government has set an example of local for vocal by giving an opportunity to Pandavas. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday made a courtesy call to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi and invited him to the National Games organized in Uttarakhand. The Chief Minister presented a shawl of Malari (Chamoli) and a replica of Narayan Ashram to the prime minister. The Chief Minister expressed gratitude on behalf of the people of the state for the leadership, guidance, and cooperation of the Prime Minister in the development of the state. The Chief Minister informed the prime minister about the development works being carried out in the state. (ANI) Assam Chief Minister Biswa Sarma on Monday urged the industrialists in Mumbai not to hire labourers from Bangladesh and said that there is a need to "strike at the roots" of the illegal immigrants from the neighbouring country. "In 1979, the people of Assam said - support our agitation today; if you do not support this today, 30 years from now India will be full of Bangladeshis. So, what is happening today?... Who brings cheap labour? Some of our own industries...They put middlemen to bring those labourers from Bangladesh...As a national duty, we have to do this. If Bangladeshis get jobs, they will keep coming. So, if our industries, trade and business here decide that they won't give jobs to Bangladeshis, how will they come here? If we have to strike, we have to strike at the root," Assam CM said addressing the press conference in Mumbai. Earlier on January 1, Assam CM Sarma said that 20 to 30 infiltrators are being detected in Assam every day and termed the situation "worrying." Speaking at the inauguration of the Mini Inter State Bus Terminus at Khanapara, Assam CM said that he has also discussed the infiltration issue with his counterparts from various northeastern states and the West Bengal government. "We have seen a huge increase in infiltration in Assam and India. 2 days ago, I also discussed this with my counterparts from various northeastern states and the West Bengal government. Assam police are detecting 20 to 30 infiltrators every day and the same number of infiltrators are being seen in Tripura. After the unrest in Bangladesh, the textile industry collapsed there. So workers working in the textile industry in Bangladesh are coming to India and many textile factory owners in our country are also encouraging them. I have also discussed this issue with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in my last meeting. So this is a very worrying issue for us because we have never detected so many infiltrators before," Assam CM said. Since the departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August last year, attacks targeting minorities, primarily Hindus, have increased in Bangladesh. Regarding the Bangladeshi Hindus coming to India, the Assam CM Sarma said that they should not "encourage them to come to India." "I think the numbers are very less and whoever wanted to come would have come 40 years ago... I think we should not encourage them to come to India. The Prime Minister is continuously working to provide security and create a security situation in Bangladesh and the Hindu people of Bangladesh are also working very maturely and we have not seen any Hindu Bangladeshi in Assam in the last five months," Assam CM said. (ANI) Sheikh Hasina, the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, has been issued an arrest warrant by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), however, according to Vikas Singh, former Additional Solicitor General of India, she has several protections against extradition. Speaking to ANI, Vikas Singh said that for a political crime, one cannot be extradited. -- India cannot extradite individuals accused of political crimes and the punishment in the requesting country (Bangladesh) must not exceed that prescribed in India for similar offences. "The International Criminal Tribunal is a tribunal set up in Bangladesh on the basis of a domestic law of Bangladesh where they recognise certain international crimes and this arrest warrant is by a domestic court of Bangladesh. For that arrest warrant to be made effective, there will have to be an extradition from India. It is only after extradition from India that this warrant can be made effective," he said. To make the arrest warrant effective, Bangladesh will need to request extradition from India. This process involves moving an Indian court, which may be challenging given the protections in place. "For extradition, the particular offender has several protections. One of them is that for a political crime, you can't be extradited. The other protection is that the punishment in the country which is seeking extradition should not be higher than that provided for a similar offence in India. So, considering all these safeguards and all the other safeguards that they have, they will have to move an Indian court to get the extradition. It is doubtful whether an extradition can be granted under these circumstances," Singh added. The ICT issued an arrest warrant against Hasina and 10 others, including her former Defence Adviser Major General (retired) Tarique Ahmed Siddique and former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed, according to a report by Daily Star. The warrants relate to two cases involving allegations of extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances. The orders were issued by the tribunal, led by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Majumdar, following two petitions filed by the prosecution seeking the arrest of the 11 individuals. In its directive, the tribunal has ordered the authorities to arrest and produce Sheikh Hasina and the others before it by February 12, The Daily Star reported. Notably, Sheikh Hasina, 77, has been living in India since August 5, after fleeing Bangladesh following a massive student-led protest that toppled her 16-year regime. Hasina is currently facing multiple court cases related to fatalities during her rule, including accusations of crimes against humanity. India's decision on the extradition request will depend on various factors, including legal obligations, diplomatic relations, and humanitarian concerns. The country has extradition treaties with several nations, including Bangladesh, which was signed in 2013 and amended in 2016. (ANI) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Monday said that dinner meets are commonplace in politics and there was no need to read too much into it. "It is common for politicians to attend dinner meets. I also organise dinner meets frequently. The media should not politicise the dinner meet. I had travelled abroad with the family as I had not travelled with them for the last 4-5 years," he said speaking to reporters. He was replying to questions on the potential political motive behind Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's dinner meet while the Deputy CM was out of the country. "Many other ministers also were travelling abroad. Those who were in Bengaluru have attended the dinner meet, there is nothing wrong in it," he added. When pointed out demands for a cabinet reshuffle and change in KPCC presidency by Minister HK Patil and others, he said, "There have been no discussions on this. The media is misinformed. This is a prerogative of the CM and he will talk about it." Asked about the detection of the HMPV virus in an 8-month-old baby in Bengaluru, he said, "Our Health Minister is working on this, there is no need to worry about it. The government is alert." Meanwhile, earlier on Monday, DK Shivakumar announced the Congress party's first guarantee scheme 'Pyari Didi', on the lines of the Gruhalakshmi scheme, in the run-up to the Delhi assembly elections. Addressing a press conference, he said, "The Congress party would provide Rs 2,500 per month for women if it comes to power in New Delhi. The scheme 'Pyari Didi' is on the same lines as Karnataka's Gruhalakshmi scheme." "We will implement the Pyari Didi guarantee scheme on the very first day of assuming office. There are more guarantees and our leaders in Delhi will talk about them in the days to come. I am promising this guarantee as the KPCC President and the Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka. We announced our first guarantee scheme in Karnataka - Gruhajyothi - from the Gandhi well in Belagavi. Later, Priyanka Gandhi announced the Gruhalakshmi scheme and told us that this should not be just a promise but a guarantee. Hence, Siddaramaiah and I signed a guarantee cheque. And, as promised, all the schemes were approved in the first Cabinet meeting itself," he said. He said that the 'Pyari Didi Scheme' will share similar benefits as the Gruhalakshmi scheme. He further noted all the benefits that women in Karnataka are reaping from the scheme. "All the guarantee schemes were rolled out in the first three months of assuming office. In Karnataka, women are travelling in government buses for free, the poor are getting 10 kg food grains, unemployed youth are getting unemployment allowance, up to 200 units of electricity is free for households, women are getting Rs 2,000 every month," he added. Shivakumar said that the Gruhalakshmi scheme has brought a significant socio-economic change in poor and middle-class families. He further added that the women are saving about Rs 4000 to Rs 5000 per month because of guarantee schemes. (ANI) Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi expressed grief over the killing of security personnel in a Naxal attack in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur on Monday. Eight District Reserve Guard (DRG) jawans and one driver lost their lives after their vehicle was blown up by Naxals using an IED in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur. https://x.com/RahulGandhi/status/1876284035598582103 "Deeply saddened to hear about the martyrdom of many of our soldiers and a driver in the cowardly Naxalite attack in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh," Rahul Gandhi wrote in Hindi on X. "I pay my heartfelt tribute to the martyrs and hope for the speedy recovery of the injured soldiers. My condolences are with the bereaved families in this difficult time. The entire country is united against terror and violence, he added. He further stated that the increase in deaths of security personnel raises 'serious' questions about the government's ability to maintain national security. Congress Lok Sabha MP from Wayanad Priyanka Gandhi also condemned the 'terror' attack in Bijapur and paid her condolences to the families of the nine people, including eight soldiers, who lost their lives in the IED blast. https://x.com/priyankagandhi/status/1876283089326072264 "The news of the martyrdom of a large number of soldiers in the Naxalite attack in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, is extremely sad. The entire country is united against terrorism and strongly condemns it. May God grant peace to the departed souls. My deepest condolences to the bereaved families, " she wrote in Hindi on X. She also wished for the speedy recovery of the injured. Former Congress Chief Minister and Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel paid tribute to the jawans who lost their lives in the incident and urged the officials to look into such attacks. " It is a very sad incident, I express my condolences and pay tribute to the jawans who lost their lives...time and again such incidents are happening so officials need to look into it...right now, I have returned from Bastar and many jawans are being sent inside ( for anti-Naxalites operation) and they should be sent but carefully," he told ANI. Nine people, including eight jawans from the Dantewada District Reserve Guard (DRG), were killed when their vehicle was targeted by Naxals in an IED blast in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, on Monday. The incident happened just days after five insurgents were killed in an encounter between security forces and Maoists in Bastar. Initially, four rebels were found dead on Sunday, and one more body was recovered later. (ANI) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to announce his resignation as Liberal Party leader on Monday, amid growing dissent within his caucus, The Globe And Mail reported, citing sources. The sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity, emphasised that the exact timing of Trudeau's announcement remains uncertain. However, they anticipate it will occur before a crucial national caucus meeting on Wednesday. One source, who recently spoke with the Prime Minister, said Trudeau understands the importance of making an announcement ahead of the caucus meeting to avoid the belief that he was ousted by his MPs. The sources also said there is no clarity on how the Liberal Party's national executive plans to handle the leadership transition. It is uncertain whether Trudeau will step down immediately or continue serving as Prime Minister until a successor is chosen. The Liberal Party national executive, which decides on leadership issues, plans to meet this week, likely after the caucus session, The Globe And Mail reported. Notably, Trudeau's Liberal caucus will meet on Wednesday as MPs increasingly call for him to resign. MPs are due to return to Ottawa on January 27 and the three main opposition parties all say they plan to bring down the government at the first opportunity, according to a report by Radio Canada. Canada has experienced political turmoil in the recent months. Earlier on December 16, hours before the statement on Canada's economy, Former Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland announced her resignation from the Cabinet. In the letter addressed to PM Trudeau, Freeland wrote, "It has been the honour of my life to serve in government, working for Canada and Canadians. We have accomplished a lot together. On Friday, you told me you no longer want me to serve as your Finance Minister and offered me another position in the Cabinet." "Upon reflection, I have concluded that the only honest and viable path is for me to resign from the Cabinet. To be effective, a Minister must speak on behalf of the Prime Minister and with his full confidence. In making your decision, you made clear that I no longer credibly enjoy that confidence and possess the authority that comes with it. For the past number of weeks, you and I have found ourselves at odds about the best path forward for Canada," the letter added. Following Freeland's resignation, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh had urged Trudeau "to resign" and stated that "all options" were on the table when asked whether he would back a non-confidence motion. (ANI) South Korea's anti-corruption agency has sought police assistance to enforce a warrant to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol over his alleged attempt to impose martial law, both parties confirmed on Monday, Yonhap News Agency reported. According to the report, the Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials (CIO) formally submitted the request on Sunday night, just a day before the warrant was set to expire. "The CIO sent us an official letter requesting our cooperation without prior consultations. We are internally carrying out a legal review," a police official told Yonhap. On Friday, CIO had halted its attempt to detain Yoon, following a prolonged standoff with the Presidential Security Service (PSS). The CIO in a press release had said, "We determined that executing the detention warrant would be practically impossible due to the continued confrontation, and suspended the execution out of concern for the safety of on-site personnel caused by the resistance. We plan to decide on the next steps following a review." It added, "We express serious regret over the behavior of the suspect who refused to comply with legally set procedures," Yonhap reported. On Friday, over 1,000 pro-Yoon protesters gathered near the residence, with slogans such as "Illegal warrant! Completely invalid!" and "Arrest the CIO." Around 2,700 police officers were deployed to maintain order. Investigators had presented court-issued warrants to detain Yoon and search his residence, but they were blocked by PSS chief Park Chong-jun, who cited restrictions on secured areas, Yonhap's report added. The CIO sought the detention warrant after Yoon failed to respond to three summonses for questioning. The agency also obtained a warrant to search the presidential residence. Yoon's legal defence team has called the warrants "illegal and invalid" and filed an injunction to block their execution. Earlier on December 14, last year, Yoon was impeached by the National Assembly over his attempt to impose martial law in the country. The members of the unicameral National Assembly had voted 204 to 85 to impeach South Korea's President. Three members of the National Assembly abstained from voting while eight votes were declared invalid. The voting was conducted through a secret ballot, with two-thirds of the vote needed for impeachment. All 300 members of the assembly cast their votes. After his impeachment, Yoon was suspended from office. (ANI) Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia is set to travel abroad for medical treatment, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leaders confirmed on Monday. "Begum Zia will leave for London on Tuesday by an air ambulance," said Enamul Haq Chowdhury, an adviser to the BNP, during a phone conversation with ANI. Chowdhury, who will accompany the BNP Chairperson, added that a 15-member entourage including family members, doctors, and party leaders would be traveling with Khaleda Zia for support. Senior BNP leaders met with her late on Sunday to exchange greetings ahead of her departure. Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, aware of Khaleda Zia's health condition, has provided a special aircraft from his royal fleet for her travel to London, local media reported. The aircraft is equipped with advanced medical facilities. The 79-year-old former prime minister, who has been battling multiple health complications, including liver cirrhosis, heart disease, and kidney issues, will stay at her son Tarek Rahman's residence in London upon arrival. BNP leaders further revealed that after spending a few days in London, Khaleda Zia will travel to the United States for advanced liver treatment. "By the grace of almighty Allah, the uncompromising leader of our country's democracy, the most loved leader of the people will leave for London on January 7 night for treatment. That is why all the members of the National Standing Committee (of BNP) have come to offer our best wishes," said Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, BNP Secretary General, after meeting with Khaleda Zia. "We talked to her. I have prayed to Allah to heal her and bring her back to us, to the people of the country," Alamgir added. When asked about Khaleda Zia's return, Alamgir remarked, "The doctors can tell. We cannot say. We hope she will return home soon." Khaleda Zia, the widow of former President Ziaur Rahman, was imprisoned in February 2018 after being convicted in a corruption case. The BNP has consistently maintained that the charges were politically motivated, accusing the Awami League government of orchestrating the case to remove her from politics. In 2020, during the COVID-19 outbreak, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina used her executive powers to suspend Khaleda Zia's sentence for six months. On March 25, Khaleda returned to her residence in Dhaka's Gulshan area after being temporarily released and has remained there ever since. The BNP had long demanded that Khaleda Zia be allowed to seek medical treatment abroad, but the Awami League government repeatedly denied the request. After the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government during a mass movement, all cases against Khaleda Zia were withdrawn through executive order. This cleared the way for her to travel abroad for treatment. (ANI) The report, citing an official, further stated that Japan's Defence Ministry later confirmed the missile had likely landed outside Japan's exclusive economic zone (EEZ). This launch occurred just two weeks before US President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on January 20 and marked North Korea's first missile activity since firing multiple short-range ballistic missiles on November 5, the report confirmed. The launch also coincided with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to South Korea, Japan, and France from January 4-9. Earlier in the week, the US Department of State, in an official statement, said, "The Secretary will discuss how the United States and the ROK can strengthen key efforts to promote a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, as well as trilateral efforts with Japan." "In Japan, Secretary Blinken will meet with senior Japanese government officials to review the tremendous progress the US-Japan alliance has made over the past few years. Secretary Blinken will reaffirm the importance of the alliance in addressing a range of bilateral, regional, and global issues and continue to build on the momentum of US-Japan-ROK trilateral cooperation," the statement added, Meanwhile, on October 31, Japan's Defence Ministry had reported that North Korea launched at least one ballistic missile, suspected to be an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM)-class weapon. The missile was launched at 7:11 am local time, flew eastward from within North Korea's interior before landing outside Japan's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in waters approximately 200 kilometres west of Hokkaido's Okushiri Island at 8:37 am, NHK World had reported. Japan's Defence Minister Nakatani Gen had stated that the missile's flight duration of 1 hour and 26 minutes marked the longest-ever trajectory of a North Korean ballistic missile. He further noted that the missile travelled around 1,000 kilometres and reached a peak altitude of approximately 7,000 kilometres. In response to the incident, Japan's Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru had announced plans to convene the National Security Council to address the potential threat posed by the launch. (ANI) Four years after the January 6 Capitol riots, attention has turned to the possibility that President-elect Donald Trump may issue pardons to many of the more than 1,500 individuals charged in connection with the attack, NBC News reported. The inauguration of Trump as US President is scheduled to take place on January 20. In an interview, Trump had pledged to prioritise relief for his supporters on his first day in office, criticising their treatment within what he described as a "corrupt" justice system and vowing quick action. Although, Trump hinted at exceptions for those he deemed "radical" or "crazy." In an exclusive interview with NBC News' "Meet the Press," Trump said that on his first day in office, he will bring legal relief to the January 6 rioters who he said have been put through a "very nasty system." "I'm going to be acting very quickly. First day. They have been in there for years, and they're in a filthy, disgusting place that shouldn't even be allowed to be open," Trump added. Trump further said that there "may be some exceptions" to his pardons "if somebody was radical, crazy." On being asked about over 900 other people who had pleaded guilty in connection to the attack but weren't accused of assaulting officers, Trump said, "I know the system. The system's a very corrupt system. They say to a guy, 'You're going to go to jail for two years or for 30 years.' And these guys are looking, their whole lives have been destroyed. For two years, they have been destroyed. But the system is a very nasty system," NBC News reported. During his campaign events last year, Trump had frequently brought up the events of January 6, and denounced the 2020 elections that he lost. While addressing a rally in March 2024 near Ohio's Dayton, he had announced to issue pardons for Trump supporting 'hostages' on the first day of his presidency. Referring to the people imprisoned in connection with the January 6 Capitol riots as hostages, Trump, in his opening remarks had said, "You see the spirit from the hostages. And that's what they are -- hostages." In a post on social media platform Truth Social, Trump in March 2024 wrote, ""My first acts as your next President will be to Close the Border, DRILL, BABY, DRILL, and Free the January 6 Hostages being wrongfully imprisoned!" Notably, over 1,350 people were charged in nearly all 50 US States for crimes related to the breach of the US Capitol, according to the US Department of Justice, after rioters stormed the building to protest former President Trump's election loss and the validity of Biden's win. Of those, at least 560 defendants received sentences while at least 335 were sentenced to periods of incarceration, the DOJ had said. (ANI) Taiwan's Ministry of Agriculture announced plans to ban the ownership and importation of 955 animal species, including raccoons and alligator snapping turtles, as part of its effort to address public safety and animal welfare concerns, Taipei Times reported. The proposed additions aim to expand the ministry's list of animals banned from being owned, imported, or exported. The Department of Animal Welfare discussed the amendments during a meeting on Friday, emphasising three main criteria for the new additions. The first criterion prioritises species not included in the Schedule of Protected Species under Article 4 of the Act on Wildlife Conservation. Second, animals regulated in other countries but without formal import records to Taiwan were pre-emptively listed. Third, species considered dangerous due to venom, potential to cause serious injuries, or other public safety risks were included. Species identified for prohibition include the spectacled caiman, members of the Dasypodidae family, the Castor genus, and all Canidae family members except domestic dogs. Ownership bans extend to eight animal categories, such as Burmese pythons, raccoons, and all Chelydridae species. The Taiwan Amphibian and Reptile Association criticised the ministry's approach, pointing out in a Facebook post on Saturday that the Industrial Technology Research Institute, rather than a wildlife-focused agency, was tasked with evaluating the banned species list, reported Taipei Times. "An agricultural policy formulated by an agricultural agency was entrusted to an industrial research institute for evaluation... This approach is unacceptable," it said. The association also raised concerns about enforcement, noting that local governments lack sufficient staff to monitor the listed species and accommodate confiscated animals. National Taiwan Normal University professor Lin Si-min acknowledged the risks posed by the listed species but highlighted the need for risk management and owner education. "Keeping cats or dogs as pets also involves risks. The point is to manage the risks and educate the owners," he said. Lin warned that an overly broad prohibition could drive pet ownership underground, leaving issues unaddressed. Department of Animal Welfare Director Chiang Wen-chuan clarified that the implementation date and list are still under discussion. He assured that not all 955 species would be banned immediately and emphasised the importance of reaching consensus through meetings and dialogue, Taipei Times reported. "The final decision on pet ownership bans would be based on the greatest possible common ground," he said. The Ministry's proposed policy reflects growing attention to public safety and animal welfare, with officials and stakeholders debating the most effective and balanced approach to implementation. (ANI) The rise highlights South Korea's increasing focus on diversifying its chip trade amid changing global markets. Data from South Korea's Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy revealed that the nation's semiconductor exports reached an unprecedented USD 141.9 billion (NTD 4.67 trillion) in 2024, exceeding the previous record of USD 129.2 billion set in 2022, Taiwan News reported. Over the January-to-November period in 2024, China's share of South Korea's chip exports fell to 51.7 per cent, compared with 61.1 per cent in 2020. Conversely, Taiwan's share rose significantly, increasing from 6.4 per cent in 2020 to 14.5 per cent last year. This increase in exports to Taiwan is linked to the trade of advanced high-bandwidth memory (HBM) chips. Industry sources explained that SK Hynix supplies HBM chips to TSMC, which then integrates them into graphics processing units (GPUs) destined for Nvidia. These GPUs are used to manufacture AI accelerators, showcasing the interconnected nature of the semiconductor industry and Taiwan's role as a critical hub in global chip manufacturing, Taiwan News reported. Similarly, South Korean semiconductor exports to Vietnam rose from 11.6 per cent in 2020 to 12.9 per cent in 2024. This growth was driven by companies such as Samsung relocating significant portions of their smartphone production from China to Vietnam, further altering the supply chain landscape in the region. Kim Yang-paeng, a researcher at the Korea Institute of Industrial Economics and Trade, remarked that Washington's "America First" policy is likely to reshape the global semiconductor supply chain. "This approach will push US allies to align with it in the ongoing trade war with China," Kim said, as per reports by Taiwan News. The policy could foster closer cooperation among allied nations while further challenging China's dominance in the global semiconductor market. (ANI) The verdict in the GBP 190 million case involving imprisoned Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan is now set to be announced on January 13, according to Islamabad's accountability court staff on Monday, The News International reported. The court staff attributed the delay to Judge Nasir Javed Rana being on leave and confirmed that both the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) prosecutor and PTI's legal counsel have been informed of the postponement. This marks the second postponement of the verdict in the Al-Qadir Trust case, which was initially reserved on December 18. The announcement was first scheduled for December 23 but was delayed at that time as well. Earlier in December, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif had renewed corruption allegations in the Al-Qadir Trust case against Imran Khan. Asif stated that the four years of Imran's governance were marked by unprecedented levels of corruption. "There has been a lot of corruption in the last 75 years, but Imran Khan broke all records," Asif said, adding that Imran and those around him were deeply involved in corrupt activities, Dawn reported. Notably, in December 2023, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) filed a corruption reference against Imran Khan, his wife Bushra Bibi, and several others. The case involves allegations that the couple obtained billions of rupees and hundreds of kanals of land from Bahria Town in exchange for legalising PKR 50 billion that had been returned to Pakistan by the UK during the PTI government's tenure. The NAB had launched an investigation into the alleged gain of hundreds of acres of land under the Al-Qadir University Trust, with the claim that it caused a loss of GBP 190 million to the national treasury. According to the charges, Imran Khan and others accused in the case allegedly misallocated PKR 50 billion (equivalent to GBP 190 million at the time) that had been sent by the UK's National Crime Agency (NCA) to the Pakistani government, ARY News reported. In response, NAB filed a corruption reference involving Imran Khan, his wife Bushra Bibi, and six other individuals related to the Al-Qadir University project, which was registered on December 26, 2019. (ANI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday met with US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in New Delhi, with discussions on enhancing bilateral, regional and global cooperation. Highlighting the significance of their discussions, Jaishankar acknowledged Sullivan's "personal contribution" in strengthening the India-US partnership over the past four years. Sharing a post on X, Jaishankar wrote, "Delighted to meet US NSA @JakeSullivan46 in New Delhi today morning." "Continued our ongoing discussions on deepening bilateral, regional and global cooperation. Valued the openness of our conversations in the last four years. Appreciated his personal contribution to forging a closer and stronger India-US partnership," the post added. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1876147928944779414 Notably, Sullivan is on a visit to India from January 5-6. During his meeting with NSA Ajit Doval, Sullivan will discuss issues ranging from space, defence, strategic technology cooperation as well as shared security priorities in the Indo-Pacific region, US National Security Council Spokesperson Sean Savett had said in a statement. "National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan will travel to New Delhi, India on January 5-6 for a capstone meeting with Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval that will span a range of issues across the breadth of the US-India partnership - from space, defense, and strategic technology cooperation to shared security priorities in the Indo-Pacific and beyond," the statement from White House noted. The US NSA will also make a visit to IIT Delhi, where he will meet Indian entrepreneurs and discuss the India-US alliance on innovation and iCET initiative. "He will also visit the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, where he will meet with young Indian entrepreneurs and give a speech outlining the significant steps the United States and India have taken together to strengthen our innovation alliance under the US-India initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET)," the statement added. Earlier on Friday, White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby had also shared the details of Sullivan's visit to India, which will be his final trip to the Indo-Pacific region as NSA. "He's very excited and looking forward to these conversations at this critical time," Kirby added. In October last year, US NSA Jake Sullivan held a phone conversation with NSA Ajit Doval, discussing critical regional security developments and emphasising the necessity for ongoing efforts to bolster stability in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. (ANI) The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has issued arrest warrant against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and 10 others, including her former Defence Adviser Major General (retired) Tarique Ahmed Siddique and former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed, according to a report by Daily Star. The warrants relate to two cases involving allegations of extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances. The orders were issued by the tribunal, led by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Majumdar, following two petitions filed by the prosecution seeking the arrest of the 11 individuals. In its directive, the tribunal has ordered the authorities to arrest and produce Sheikh Hasina and the others before it by February 12, The Daily Star reported. Notably, Sheikh Hasina, 77, has been living in India since August 5, after fleeing Bangladesh following a massive student-led protest that toppled her 16-year regime. Hasina is currently facing multiple court cases related to fatalities during her rule, including accusations of crimes against humanity. Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs on Friday confirmed that India received the request for extradition of Sheikh Hasina from Dhaka. "We have confirmed that we have received a request from the Bangladeshi side on Hasina's extradition. Beyond that, I have nothing further to add," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had said in the weekly briefing. The confirmation came after Bangladesh's interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, sent a diplomatic note to India's Foreign Ministry requesting Hasina's extradition. Earlier in October, ICT had issued arrest warrants against Hasina and 45 other top Awami League leaders, including former ministers and officials. The arrest warrant was issued in connection with alleged crimes against humanity committed during the July-August uprising. ICT, led by its chairman Justice Md Golam Mortuza Majumdar, passed the orders. Over 60 complaints of crimes against humanity and genocide were filed against former Hasina and many of her party member with the ICT investigation agency. (ANI) Following the reports of airstrikes on Afghan civilians, including women and children, the Ministry of External Affairs expressed deep concern over the loss of innocent lives and strongly condemned the attacks. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal also criticised Pakistan for its long-standing practice of deflecting blame onto its neighbours for its internal failures. In response to media queries regarding airstrikes on Afghan civilians, Jaiswal on Monday said, "We have noted the media reports on airstrikes on Afghan civilians, including women and children, in which several precious lives have been lost." "We unequivocally condemn any attack on innocent civilians. It is an old practice of Pakistan to blame its neighbours for its own internal failures. We have also noted the response of an Afghan spokesperson in this regard," he added. Last month, at least eight individuals were killed and 13, including civilians, were injured on the Afghan side during clashes at the border, according to security officials, Dawn reported. The intense exchange of fire followed an escalation in tensions after Pakistani fighter jets targeted alleged camps of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in Afghanistan's eastern Paktika province in December. The clashes erupted after a failed attempt by militants on the Afghan side to infiltrate Pakistan, triggering fresh fighting. Pakistan has repeatedly expressed concerns over the use of Afghan soil by militants for cross-border attacks, particularly in regions like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had addressed the issue, urging the Afghan government to take decisive action against the TTP, emphasising that attacks from Afghan soil were a "red line" for Pakistan. He also stated that while Pakistan is willing to engage in talks with Kabul, dialogue cannot occur alongside ongoing attacks. A Pakistani delegation, led by Special Representative Muhammad Sadiq, had also met with Afghan leaders in Kabul to resume diplomatic dialogue after a year-long hiatus, Dawn reported. (ANI) Human rights activist Amjad Ayub Mirza has strongly condemned the recent call for jihad by the Prime Minister of Pakistan-occupied Jammu Kashmir (PoJK), Chaudhary Anwar ul Haq, during the observance of the so-called Right to Self-Determination Day on January 5. The event, which was organised by various factions of radical groups, saw the Prime Minister address a crowd, promising his government's support for the revival of jihadi culture in the region. During the public meeting, slogans of "al-jihad, al-jihad" were chanted by the participants, with Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq energetically endorsing the sentiment. This controversial stance has sparked concerns among political leaders and activists about the potential destabilising effects on the region. Mirza condemned the Prime Minister's actions, calling them an opportunistic political strategy aimed at regaining popularity. He pointed out that since the civil rights movement launched by the Joint Awami Action Committee, Prime Minister Haq's administration has faced growing unpopularity. According to Mirza, Haq is now seeking to rally support from right-wing jihadi factions, a move which he described as both dangerous and reckless. Mirza also warned that such rhetoric could undermine the ongoing political struggle for social justice in PoJK. He emphasised that the region's people have been fighting for their civil rights for years, and that calls for violent jihad could derail their peaceful efforts. Expressing further concern, Mirza suggested that Pakistan's spy agency, the ISI, might be orchestrating a new proxy war in the region. However, he made it clear that the people of PoJK would not support this "dangerous adventurism," stressing that the region's political struggle should remain focused on justice, peace, and democracy, not violence. This development has raised alarm among human rights groups, urging greater international attention to the increasing influence of militant elements in PoJK's political landscape. (ANI) Protests erupted in Hunza in Pakistan occupied Gilgit Baltistan as local residents rejected a proposal from the government to connect the region's power supply to the Jaglot Guru power station. The protesters, who have expressed their dissatisfaction with the plan, argue that the power station has failed to meet the electricity needs of nearby areas like Danyore and Gilgit, and therefore should not be expected to serve the more remote and energy-demanding Hunza region. While speaking to Pamir Times, Ejaz Gilgiti, a spokesperson for the protest organisers, emphasised the inadequacy of the Guru power station, claiming that it has been unable to meet the needs of its current service areas. He argued that transferring additional demand from Hunza would only worsen the power shortages already affecting the region. Gilgiti pointed out that the government's announcement claiming that Hunza would receive 1.2 MW of electricity from Jaglot was nothing more than a false and misleading statement. He reminded the public of a similar attempt made months earlier, when the government tried to convince the people of Hunza to accept a power-sharing agreement. He added that the previous attempt, which lasted for four months, failed miserably due to the inadequacy of the power supply, leaving the region in darkness. He said, "Currently, the government is spreading fake news, claiming that we, the people of Hunza, will receive 1.2 MW of electricity from Jaglot. This is not the first time such an attempt has been made. Four months ago, there was a similar effort to deceive us. We reject this proposal. We don't know what the real agenda behind this is." He further stated, "This is just a tactic to create division among the people. The government is trying to stir up conflict and discord between the people of Hunza and other regions." In a strong rejection of the plan, the protesters called for more sustainable solutions to address the power needs of Hunza. They demanded that the government invest in building reliable infrastructure that could meet the growing demand for electricity in their region, rather than relying on a failing power station that was already overburdened. (ANI) Satyam Surana, an Indian student in the UK, who alleged hate campaigns and smears against him during the college elections in London, has strongly criticised the handling of the case and accused the institution of showing a 'biased' treatment towards him. He has even alleged that the major university campuses today, have been "hijacked" by 'pro-left' ideologies and they can't accept someone with a "vocal Hindu and Indian identity." In an interview with ANI, Surana opened up on his allegations and said despite his providing "irrefutable evidence" to the university's authorities, all the charges have been ignored citing the submissions as "insufficient" and the remarks by accused students being put under the category of 'freedom of expression'. Surana, who came to the limelight for retrieving the Tricolour amidst an attack on the Indian High Commission in the United Kingdom by Khalistani extremists in 2023, had previously voiced out against alleged hate and smear campaigns targeted at him during student union elections at the London School of Economics. The Pune-born student has also practised at the Bombay High Court for some months. He was pursuing an LLM at the London School of Economics, at the time of the alleged incident. "Immediately after all this incident of harassment, hate, bullying and all the doxing happened, I immediately approached the university's authorities for the redressal and through every mechanism possible. I approached the security and the department to withhold the security footage right from getting the accused person's CCTV footage of scribbling and marking my posters over the campus, to reporting the WhatsApp messages, the hate comments that I got, the abuses that I got on different platforms of social media," he said. He alleged that the university deliberately took the investigation for so long to favour the accused students, as most of them ended up passing out in this long duration. "So that (incident) happened around somewhere in March 2024 and today we are in January of 2025 so it's been almost 10 months I got the decision in late December 2024. So these authorities in LSE have decided...not to uphold the allegations that I have made and for that they have used the ground that the evidence that has been submitted is insufficient and that of all the multiple instances that I complained of, they have just pin picked one specific incident regarding the scribblings on my poster and they've said that the security footage is not available and the student is also no longer a student of the college he has passed out and so we cannot do anything. They've ignored almost every other incident that I complained of," Surana further stated. The Indian student further alleged that though he provided the university with the screenshots of 'hate messages', course IDs of the accused students, and their social media handles, at the request of the university itself, the evidence was deemed 'insufficient' in what Surana terms a "clear misinterpretation" of the record. He further accused the university of "willfully and deliberately" passing the time over months just "to favour the people involved in the hate campaign" as most of the accused passed out by this time, getting out of the institution's gambit. Surana also pointed out that most of the allegations levelled by him have been brushed off under the garb of 'freedom of expression'. "They (university) have purely said that students are free to express their thoughts and opinions but there needs to be some limitations," Surana said, adding that some highly controversial remarks were made about him and his identity. "I was heckled with a slogan called, 'We don't want a Hindu nationalist or an Indian nationalist to be elected to the student union'. So, here my Hindu identity is being questioned, my proud Indian identity is being questioned, everything has been questioned keeping the political side of it aside, it is an attack on my religious identity but the university has clearly justified that in their decision letter, that this is well within the ambit of the legitimate exercise of their freedom of speech and expression how can a how can spewing venom against one religious identity be within the garb of freedom of speech and expression," he added. Further pointing to an incident, where he was warned by the university for his social media posts, in which Surana claims he was pointing out how the "Palestine movement was used to sympathize with radical Islamist terrorist organizations." "This is the double standard that these universities are applying while dealing with cases of Hinduphobia as against while dealing with cases of Islamophobia," he said. Surana went on to allege that major global universities have been "hijacked" by "left-wing ideology" and they are using it to spread anti-India hatred among Indian students. "This is not the first incidence of what I have faced there have been multiple similar incidents in the past be it in Oxford, be it in the same London School of Economics, or be it in other universities as well. So this systematic pattern highlights one very important thing these campuses are not open to accepting people who are vocal about their Hindu identity, Indian identity or any sort of identity or ideology which is incoherent with their well-established left-wing ideology," Surana said. He added, "We have faculties who are consistent in their anti-India stance we have a multiple number of other faculties in other universities...Their anti-India hatred stems from their anti-Hindu hatred which as a political ideology has now manifested itself in these people's different forms of urban naxalism, and they are using and they are brainwashing these groups of young Indian students and turning them into what we may call, urban nationals, Maoists terror sympathizers and that is why they have hijacked this entire academia." (ANI) The High Commissioner of the Republic of India to the Republic of the Maldives, G Balasubramanian, presented his Letters of Credence to the President of the Maldives, Mohamed Muizzu, during a ceremony held at the President's Office on Monday morning, an official press release by the Maldives President's Office stated. The High Commissioner, accompanied by a cultural procession, was escorted from Republic Square to the President's Office by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Drum and Trumpet Band. This traditional procession, known as 'Haiykolhu,' marked the beginning of the ceremony as the High Commissioner presented his credentials to President Muizzu. President Muizzu officially accepted the Letters of Credence and welcomed High Commissioner Balasubramanian as the new representative of India to the Maldives. During their meeting, the High Commissioner conveyed the best wishes of the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to the President and the people of the Maldives. Discussions between the President and the High Commissioner focused on enhancing development cooperation, with both leaders emphasising the importance of ongoing Indian government projects in the Maldives, the press release stated. They also explored ways to increase investments in various sectors, particularly those aimed at strengthening bilateral relations. Another key topic was strengthening people-to-people connections, which is seen as vital to the continued growth of relations between the two nations. Both President Muizzu and High Commissioner Balasubramanian concluded the meeting by reaffirming their commitment to the continued partnership and cooperation between India and the Maldives. They expressed mutual interest in expanding collaboration across multiple areas and ensuring long-term growth and stability in the bilateral relationship. India and the Maldives share deep ethnic, cultural, and commercial links, with a longstanding history of cordial relations. The Maldives' strategic location in the Indian Ocean, along important commercial sea lanes, further strengthens the significance of their bilateral ties. India was one of the first countries to recognise the Maldives following its independence in 1965 and has since maintained a strong and collaborative relationship with the island nation. (ANI) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Newsweek, Dev Pragad has been invited as the Guest of Honour for the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention set to take place in Bhubaneswar from January 8 to January 10 onwards. Notably, Pragad will be attending PBD following a personal invitation from External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. PBD serves as India's premier platform celebrating the contributions of the Indian diaspora towards national development. "Dev Pragad's presence at the PBD Convention highlights his outstanding achievements in transforming Newsweek. After Pragad took over as the CEO, he has turned the publication into a profitable, multi-platform media organization which reaches over 100 million readers monthly. Under his leadership, several digital innovations have been introduced such as the Newsweek Rankings, which includes categories like "World's Best Hospitals" and Auto Disruptor Awards," an official statement noted. The official statement also noted that under Pragad's leadership, Newsweek has become a platform for high-profile conversations with global leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japan's former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Notably, under his direction, Newsweek's turnaround is studied at the Harvard Business School is studied as a case study in innovation and leadership. Pragad's journey from his Indian roots to leading one of the world's most respected media brands serves as a testimony towards the unwavering spirit and grit of the Indian diaspora celebrated, which is celebrated at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. His presence at the Convention is expected to inspire meaningful conversations about the diaspora's role in shaping India's evolving global narrative. The 18th edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention is set to take place from January 8 to 10, 2025, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, an official statement by the Ministry of External Affairs stated. The event, a key initiative by the Indian government, will focus on the theme "Diaspora's Contribution to a Viksit Bharat" and aims to celebrate and strengthen the bond between India and its overseas Indian community. This annual event serves as a platform to acknowledge the Indian diaspora's contributions to the country's growth and development. (ANI) India on Monday unequivocally condemned Pakistani airstrikes on Afghan civilians and said India noted the response of an Afghan spokesperson in the regard, without elaborating. Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal said that Pakistan has an old habit to blame others for their miseries. In a statement he said, "We have noted the media reports on airstrikes on Afghan civilians, including women and children, in which several precious lives have been lost. We unequivocally condemn any attack on innocent civilians. It is an old practice of Pakistan to blame its neighbours for its own internal failures. We have also noted the response of an Afghan spokesperson in this regard." https://x.com/MEAIndia/status/1876179449554878690 Last month, at least eight individuals were killed and 13, including civilians, were injured on the Afghan side during clashes at the border, according to security officials, Dawn reported. The intense exchange of fire followed an escalation in tensions after Pakistani fighter jets targeted alleged camps of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in Afghanistan's eastern Paktika province in December. The clashes erupted after a failed attempt by militants on the Afghan side to infiltrate Pakistan, triggering fresh fighting. Pakistan has repeatedly expressed concerns over the use of Afghan soil by militants for cross-border attacks, particularly in regions like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had addressed the issue, urging the Afghan government to take decisive action against the TTP, emphasising that attacks from Afghan soil were a "red line" for Pakistan. He also stated that while Pakistan is willing to engage in talks with Kabul, dialogue cannot occur alongside ongoing attacks. A Pakistani delegation, led by Special Representative Muhammad Sadiq, had also met with Afghan leaders in Kabul to resume diplomatic dialogue after a year-long hiatus, Dawn reported. More than 500 Afghan children were killed or injured in 2024 due to explosions from unexploded ordnance and remnants of war, according to the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), Khaama Press reported. (ANI) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will speak at 10.45am (local time) at Rideau Cottage, CBC News quoted a news release from the Prime Minister's Office. The report came as Trudeau faced a caucus revolt and abysmal unpopularity among public, as data from public opinion polls show. The Globe and Mail reported that Trudeau would likely be swooped by the Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre. Sources told the Canadian media outlet that Trudeau's announcement would come before Wednesday's national caucus meeting. The source added that Trudeau would do so otherwise it would look as though his own MPs forced him out of his party. The Globe and Mail reported that the MPs of Liberal Party were deliberating how to keep Trudeau as the Prime Minister until a new interim leader is selected. Alberta Liberal George Chahal is seen as a favourable interim leader, who wrote to the caucus regarding the proposal. The party has two options: appoint an interim leader on the recommendation of national caucus or hold a shortened leadership contest. A leadership contest would require the Prime Minister to request that Governor-General Mary Simon prorogue Parliament, which constitutional experts say is not guaranteed. Others also said that Canadian Finance Minister, Dominic LeBlanc was also approached by Trudeau to be the interim leader, but it would not work out, as per The Globe and Mail. Polls over the past year have shown the Conservatives with a double-digit advantage over the governing Liberals. An Angus Reid survey, released on Friday, suggests that under Trudeau, the Liberals only have the support of 13 per cent of voters, but those numbers do change if a new leader is in place, as per the Globe and Mail. The growing unpopularity of Trudeau mounted after the New Democratic Party Leader Jagmeet Singh on December 17 urged Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau "to resign." He stated that "all options" were on the table when asked whether he would back a non-confidence motion, Canada-based Global News reported. He made the remarks hours after Chrystia Freeland resigned as Canada's Finance Minister. (ANI) Amjad Ayub Mirza, a prominent activist from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), has issued a strong warning about the rising influence of jihadi groups and the growing jihadi culture in the region. He cautioned that these groups, with the backing of certain political figures, may target progressive, liberal, and secular individuals within PoJK, particularly those who hold pro-Indian views. Mirza expressed his concern in a video message, stating, "There is a danger that by stoking jihadi culture and jihadi organisations in PoJK, they will target progressives, liberals, and especially nationalist secular elements inside PoJK--those who are considered pro-Indian and who accept the 1947 Instrument of Accession signed by Maharaja Hari Singh and the Mountbatten Governor-General of India. I hope it doesn't happen, but serious concerns remain regarding a spate of extrajudicial killings in PoJK." He further emphasised the growing threat of extremism, stating, "Jihadi elements have infiltrated various WhatsApp groups of the Kashmiri diaspora, where they monitor, threaten, and demean those with nationalist views. These jihadis are being empowered by the PoJK Prime Minister," he said. Mirza condemned the offer made by PoJK Prime Minister Chaudhary Anwar ul-Haq to jihadi organisations, promising to facilitate and revive jihadi culture in PoJK. He described this move as the worst kind of political opportunism. "He has completely lost his popularity after the civil disobedience movement led by the Joint Awami Action Committee," Mirza said. "He was pushed to the wall and forced to release political prisoners. After facing five to six general strikes over two years, his government's popularity plummeted. Not only has his popularity waned, but also the popularity of the slogan 'Kashmir Banega Pakistan.' Pakistan is now so hated in PoJK that you cannot raise the Pakistani flag voluntarily anywhere in PoJK," added Mirza. Mirza pointed out that the proxy war orchestrated by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir is far from over. "It sometimes goes on the back burner, but now it seems they are bringing it to the front burner. There is a real danger that jihadi groups in PoJK and their counterparts in Jammu and Kashmir will try to form alliances and continue their terrorist activities," he warned. Mirza further cautioned that such rhetoric could have disastrous consequences, comparing the Prime Minister's statement to hate speech and calling it an indirect incitement to genocide. "What he is saying indirectly calls for the genocide of non-Muslims in Jammu and Kashmir. The United Nations and the International Court of Justice must take notice of this. He should be removed from office immediately. He has become a political opportunist, an adventurist, using state machinery to fuel jihadi culture, which means empowering terrorist non-state actors who are hostile to India," Mirza said. In conclusion, Mirza called for urgent international intervention, warning that Haq's dangerous actions could lead to increased violence and instability. "He is planning to empower terrorists who work against India. The situation is too dangerous, and he should be held accountable for the threats he has unleashed," Mirza said. (ANI) United Kingdom's Prime Minister Keir Starmer has defended his role as the UK's top prosecutor from 2008-2013 amid the reignition of the alleged UK Rape scandal which revolved around child sexual abuse and exploitation which took place in the United Kingdom. In a news conference, Keir Starmer said on Monday, "When politicians who sat in government for many years are casual about honesty, decency, truth of law, calling for inquiries because they want to jump on a bandwagon at the far right then that affects politics." To this Elon Musk replied, "What an insane thing to say! The real reason is that it would show how Starmer repeatedly ignored the pleas of vast numbers of little girls and their parents, in order to secure political support. Starmer is utterly despicable." https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1876245946348208601 The incident gained prominence after Elon Musk had posted on X on Friday saying, "Starmer was complicit in the RAPE OF BRITAIN when he was head of Crown Prosecution for 6 years. Starmer must go and he must face charges for his complicity in the worst mass crime in the history of Britain." https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1875150194909823085 Musk has accused Starmer of being "complicit in the rape of Britain" for failing to thwart grooming gangs while he was director of public prosecutions (DPP). Starmer staunchly defended his record as head of the DPP on Monday, saying he changed "the entire approach" that had stopped victims from being heard, and had "the highest number of child sexual abuse cases being prosecuted on record", CNN reported. As per CNN, Starmer's government recently rejected a national inquiry into the gangs, citing a string of existing inquiries into the issue and a 2022 report whose findings are still being implemented. The alleged Rotherham scandal happened between 1997 and 2013. On September 13, 2024, the Crown Prosecution Service said that seven men were jailed for committing child sex abuse offences against two young girls in Rotherham during the 2000s. The CPS prosecuted Mohammed Amar, 42, Mohammed Siyab, 44, Yasser Ajaibe, 39, Mohammed Zameer Sadiq, 49, Abid Saddiq, 43, Tahir Yassin, 38, and Ramin Bari, 37, following an investigation by the National Crime Agency as part of Operation Stovewood. Operation Stovewood was a major investigation into child sexual abuse and exploitation which took place in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, between 1997 and 2013. The two victims in this case were aged just 11 and 15 when the offending began. (ANI) US Congress convened on Monday to count electoral college votes and certify President-elect Donald Trump's victory over Vice President Kamala Harris in the presidential election held in November, The Hill reported. Trump's election victory was certified ahead of his inauguration with no objections from any lawmakers as the tally of states was announced on the House floor. Donald Trump won 312 electoral votes while Harris got 226 votes, a total that was confirmed during the certification on Monday, marking the final step in the election process before Trump returns back to the White House on January 20. Republican lawmakers gave a standing ovation in the chamber when Harris announced Trump's victory was certified, The Hill reported. A bipartisan standing ovation broke out in the House Chamber after HArris announced that the joint session of Congress was dissolved. The event lasted for around 30 minutes before Kamala Harris gaveled it out. Kamala Harris presided over the process and the proceedings went off without a hitch. Several lawmakers helped in the counting, including Senator Amy Klobuchar, Senator Deb Fischer and Representatives - Bryan Steil and Joe Morelle. Vice President-elect JD Vance was also present in the chamber during the count. It comes four years after rioters stormed the Capitol to try and halt the certification of US President Joe Biden's victory over Trump, who had made claims that the 2020 election was fraudulent. Trump was at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida when the certification played out without much fanfare on Monday. Hours before the lawmakers arrived to certify election results, Donald Trump called it a "big moment in history." Ahead of the certification, a video was released in which Harris called the "peaceful transfer of power" as a bedrock of US democracy, calling her duty a "sacred obligation," The Hill reported. She said, "As we have seen, our democracy can be fragile." Harris said, "And it is up to each of us to stand up for our most cherished principles." A snowstorm hit Washington overnight, worrying lawmakers who were trying to return to the Capitol for the certification, The Hill reported. The certification had to go forward as changing the date due to the weather would have required a new law. Furthermore, the Capitol Hill was on high alert after the events that happened four years back, with fencing placed around the Capitol complex and more police personnel deployed throughout Senate and House office buildings and the Capitol itself. (ANI) The National Security Advisor of the United States who is on a visit to India, highlighted the challenges posed by China's "predatorial industrial strategies" and the importance of India-US collaboration in overcoming them. Sullivan emphasized the significance of stronger defence cooperation between the US and India, citing its role in enabling greater security across the region during an event at IIT Delhi during the session, 'The United States and India: Building a shared future.' Speaking about clean energy and the electronics industries, NSA Sullivan said, "We've seen companies struggling to compete against China's predatorial industrial strategies and chips and clean energy and other emerging technologies, and of course, we've seen repeated attacks on industries tied to our critical infrastructure, which is heightening the risks not only to cyber espionage but of destructive sabotage. That's why as we launched ISA, both President Biden and Prime Minister Modi made it a priority to invest in national programmes that are spurring production in sectors that have become overly reliant on a single country, China. These include the US Chips and Science Act, the India Semiconductor mission, and India's production-linked incentive (PLI) programme in areas such as biopharmaceuticals." Sullivan's remarks at IIT Delhi focused on the Indo-Pacific region and the growth of the India-US defence partnership over the past two decades. He noted that the partnership has evolved from no defence trade relationship 25 years ago to the current collaborative manufacturing of defence systems in India. He observed that the benefits of these programmes are already flowing to both India and the US. Mentioning the American semiconductor company Micron, Sullivan said that it was the first, not just American but global company to partner with India's semiconductor mission, investing hundreds of millions of dollars in new semiconductor packaging facilities aimed at establishing "India as a new hub in the global chip ecosystem." Sullivan also highlighted the benefits of the US Chips and Science Act, the India Semiconductor mission, and India's production-linked incentive (PLI) program in reducing dependence on single-source suppliers, particularly China. He noted, "India and the United States joined hands with the Republic of Korea, Japan, and Europe to establish a new biopharmaceutical supply chain consortium, the BIO5, that will help reduce dependence on single source suppliers in terms of the supply chain for biopharmaceuticals. We are poised now to expand those efforts into new sectors, most notably commercial space exploration." Speaking about the Indo-Pacific region and the India-US defence partnership, Sullivan said, "The growth of our defence partnership over the past two decades has been nothing short of remarkable. Consider that 25 years ago, the US and India had no defence trade relationship at all. No frameworks for information sharing or logistics cooperation. No major military exercises to train alongside each other. Today, the US isn't just selling defence systems to India, we are making them here in India and the United States has become a top destination for Indian defence exports". He mentioned how American and Indian startups are working to bring forth new technologies for our militaries. The US and India are co-producing defence systems, with the US becoming a top destination for Indian defence exports. American and Indian startups are working together to develop new technologies for military applications. "On top of this, in the past 2 years alone, the Biden administration has approved technology proposals that would enable India to become the first global producer of striker combat vehicles, a leading producer of advanced munition systems, and the first foreign producer of cutting edge maritime systems. We've already announced a ground-breaking initiative to enable India to manufacture jet engines that will power India's future indigenous fighter fleet, and even more work is underway in aviation and sensing and undersea that will come to fruition soon. So many of these initiatives can spread way beyond the US and India to eventually help countries across the Indo-Pacific region upgrade their defensive capabilities as well, because that is a critical goal that unites us to ensure a freer, more secure, more prosperous, and more resilient Indo-Pacific region," Sullivan said. He mentioned that "through the multinational combined Maritime Forces Coalition, of which India is now a full-time member, we are combating both piracy and trafficking at sea. Through Exercise Malabar, the US, India, Australia, and Japan are training to more rapidly respond to natural disasters across the region. And through historic agreements that allow US Navy vessels to seek repair and maintenance in Indian shipyards in Kochi, Mumbai, and soon Chennai, the United States can more readily train and operate with countries across the Indian Ocean region. At a time when we're seeing more dangerous provocations in the air and at sea, the proliferation of destabilising technologies, and countries attempting to change the status quo by force, our cooperation in technology, in defence and beyond is rapidly becoming one of the core pillars of stability across the Indo-Pacific." (ANI) Canadian journalist Daniel Bordman has expressed confidence that the ties between India and Canada will improve under the Conservative government. He stated that people in India have no problem with Canada, however, they start ranting when the topic of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and NDP leader Jagmeet Singh is raised. In an interview with ANI, Bordman noted that a lot of the Khalistanis in the Conservative party are just due to ignorance. He said that Khalistanis will find far less fertile ground to operate in Canada under a Conservative government. He called the Communist Party of China and the Muslim Brotherhood the "bedrock of the Khalistan movement here in Canada." On being asked about the impact of Trudeau's announcement of his plan to step down on India-Canada relations, Daniel Bordman said, "I think it's really good because in my limited travels here in India for a few days, I've been asking people about Justin Trudeau and Jagmeet Singh and Canada, in general, all of that. And the general Indian vibe, I get from a lot of people is they have no problem with Canada. They like Canada, they know we're nice people and all this and that, but when Trudeau and Jagmeet Singh come up, then, Indians turn into me and start ranting. So, I'm pretty confident that under a conservative government, it would improve and you could say, there are some Khalistanis in the conservative government and no political party is perfect. And a lot of the Khalistanis in the Conservative Party are just due to ignorance." He said that Khalistani acts as a proxy of the Muslim Brotherhood, which he stressed has been activated since October 7. He stated that the Conservative Party is "very pro-Israel" and it understands the threat of radical Islamic terrorists. According to him, the current faction of the Conservative Party is not friendly to the Muslim Brotherhood. Daniel Bordman said, "The Khalistani issue is not understood nearly as much in Canada. However, the Khalistanis do act as a proxy of the Muslim Brotherhood and the Muslim Brotherhood has been sort of activated since October 7th, they've all come out of the woodwork and done the sort of they're railing against Israel and Jews and burning down synagogues and whatever, but the Conservative Party is very pro-Israel, and they understand the threat of radical Islamic terrorists. So, if you have a government that, again, they don't understand Khalistan, but they understand the Communist Party of China and the Muslim Brotherhood, which are the two main allies, and the bedrock of the Khalistan movement here in Canada." "It's like one finances it mostly through the ISI in Pakistan, and the other kind of taught it how to act through the political left and helped to infiltrate the work in concert. So, with those factions, right, the CCP and the Muslim Brotherhood losing significant influence in our politics. Even though, yes, there are some Khalistanis who are trying to get the conservative party and foreign interference is a problem, they will find far less fertile ground to operate under a conservative government, and it's not because the conservative government is stridently against Canada, again, it's Canada, it's me and like 10 other people who understand this issue who aren't from India, but they understand the issues that are sort of auxiliary to it. Those are well-understood issues in our country. So, in that point, I would be hopeful because, and, especially the current faction of the Conservative Party, opposed to the previous faction is not friendly to the Muslim Brotherhood," he added. Notably, the ties between India and Canada have been strained after Trudeau alleged in the Canadian Parliament that he has "credible allegations" of India's hand in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India has denied all the allegations, calling them "absurd" and "politically motivated" and has accused Canada of giving space to extremist and anti-India elements in their country. Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was designated a terrorist by India's National Investigation Agency in 2020, was shot and killed outside a Gurdwara in Surrey in June 2023. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Monday (local time) that he would resign as the leader of the Liberal Party and as Prime Minister as soon as a new candidate is found for the post. Trudeau said that he had spoken to the Liberal Party President to start looking for a new Prime Ministerial candidate. "I intend to resign as party leader and as Prime Minister after the party chooses the next leader. If I have to fight internal battles I can't be a good candidate. I have asked the liberal part president to search for a new candidate for the post of Prime Minister," he said. Trudeau said he advised Governor General Mary Simon that Canada needs a new session of Parliament. He said that she agreed to the request to prorogue Parliament until March 24. "We have worked for this country. We are at a critical moment in the world. Canadian resilience motivates me to serve. I am a fighter. Every bone in my body has always told me to fight because I care deeply about Canadians, I care deeply about this country and I will always be motivated by what is in the best interest of Canadians. The fact is despite best efforts to work through it, Parliament has been paralysed for months after what has been the longest session of a minority Parliament in Canadian history. That's why this morning, I advised the Governor General that we need a new session of Parliament. She has granted this request and the House will now be prorogued until March 24," Trudeau said. "Over the holidays, I have also had a chance to reflect and to have long talks with my family about our future. Throughout my career, any success I have personally achieved has been because of their support, their encouragement. So, last night over dinner I told my kids about the decision that I am sharing with you today. I intend to resign as party leader, as Prime Minister after the party selects its next leader...Last night I asked the president of the Liberal Party to begin that process. This country deserves a real choice in the next election and it has become clear to me that I am having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election," he added. Trudeau said that he will not put forth his candidature as a potential Prime Minister. "I will not be putting my candidature. The Liberal Party is an important institution in our country. We were elected for 3rd time in 2021 to advance Canada's stand in the world. I never bow down when faced with a fight but I do this job because of the interest of Canadians and the interest of democracy that I hold dear. And I can't be that candidate due to internal battles," he said. (ANI) Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, is all set to host the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) 2025, with several content creators and overseas Indians invited to participate in the event. The city has been decked up to welcome the guests, with participants expressing their excitement and eagerness to explore India and connect with their roots. Amit Kumar Senapathy said that he has been travelling all over the world and being a native of Odisha, he feels like a winner already. "I have been travelling all over the world for the last 11 to 12 years. With respect to coming here, this was an organization, a contest that was sponsored by the Government of India and luckily we are part of that and we are very fortunate that we got an opportunity to come here and meet the people and also to look into the beautiful state of Odisha. We are from Odisha only, so that is something good- coming back and meeting the people and these are the people who are going to make us throughout the places. So looking forward to it. Seeing that the event is happening in Odisha makes me feel like I have become a winner. I can look into the airport the whole place is decked up and it's looking beautiful and even the ambience and everything it looks so beautiful," he told ANI. The 5th Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz was held from 11 November - 11 December 2024. The quiz is an endeavour of the Government of India to strengthen connection with the Indian Diaspora, particularly the youth, and also to engage foreigners who are keen to learn about India. The online quiz was conducted under two categories: i) Non-Resident Indians and ii) Persons of Indian Origin / Foreign nationals, aged between 14-50 years. In total, 1,08,876 people from 203 countries and territories participated in the quiz. Thirty winners of the quiz - 15 from each category - have been invited to visit India on Bharat Ko Janiye Yatra (Know India Tour) from 8-21 January 2025. Rashmita Senapati, another participant of the PBD, told ANI that she was excited to explore the country as a part of this visit. "For the last 11 years, I've been living in Africa, South Africa, and now we have come from Nigeria. I work for a proctech firm which is based in London. And I came to know about Bharat ko Janiye as a reference from my husband. So we played the quiz. And while playing the quiz, we were pretty excited. And because this time, there was and all metrics were there. So we were like we cracked 30 questions. I cracked 30 questions in 102 seconds. So I was kind of sure that I will crack it. And when the call from High Commission Nigeria came, it was a very exciting moment for me. I am very excited because I've gone through the agenda. The leaders who run the nation are going to join the convention. They are also taking us to the best places in India, Taj Mahal, as well. So Konark also in Odisha is one of the high points. So I am very, very excited and looking forward to it," she told ANI. Shami from Mauritius said that she was very keen to learn more about the culture of India through the event. "It's my first time and I'm very happy to be here and to connect as well. So I'm very excited to be here. I'm super keen to learn more about this and to share with other people around the world who came just for this occasion," he said. Nishibihari from Mauritius told ANI that as her grandparents were from India and they moved to Mauritius, she has been very rooted in India's culture. "I'm a producer, actor-comedian, content creator as well. And it's my utmost pleasure to be here for the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. I'm very eager to share all these with my audience and with you people because maybe I will be experiencing new things here with you. And I'm very eager. My grandparents were from India so they took the boat and they came to Mauritius to work India has always been very close to my heart because till now religious wise, culture-wise, the way I dress myself is very connected to here," she said. Damien, from Mauritius, who works for Nishibihari, said that he was proud to be there. "I'm a video and film producer. I'm also a content creator for influencer marketing people. I produce Nishibiari, who is the number one influencer person in Mauritius. We are very proud to be here. It's a real honour for the first time we are coming to India, meeting you at this amazing event," he said. Aman Haider, a poet living in Dubai, said that he has been attending all the events of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas of its previous editions. "I have been living in Dubai for the last 15 years. Every time Parvatiye Bharatiya calls us on the day, we run and come. I am very excited. We are always excited to come to our country, to our soil. Whenever there is a new place in two years, we feel that India is so big. I think our president, Abul Kalam, said that he will go out only when he can travel all over India. We are also like that. I have also come to Odisha for the first time. I am going to stay in Rishikesh. The thing is that the soil of the country is calling us," he said. The India visit of the winners will start from Odisha where they will participate in the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention in Bhubaneswar from 8-10 January 2025. The visit affords the winners an opportunity to experience and deepen their understanding of India's heritage, culture and contemporary developments. The 18th PBD aims to strengthen ties between India and its diaspora community, with a focus on cultural exchange, business networking, and knowledge sharing. The event has attracted participants from around the world, including content creators, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders. With its rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality, Bhubaneswar is all set to make the 18th PBD a memorable experience for all participants. (ANI) During the final Mass at the All Saints Parish in Buffalo, New York, on a warm Sunday in July, the priests encouraged the few parishioners who came to take comfort in holy scripture. "For everything, there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven," the passage read. On Earth, many parishes are accepting that it's time to sell their properties. As the person leading renewal and development for the Diocese of Buffalo, Father Bryan Zielenieski is one of many religious leaders across America who have closed houses of worship in recent years. PHOTO: Father Bryan Zielenieski talks about church closures and the fall in attendance in the Diocese of Buffalo, New York. (ABC News) "We essentially went to half of what we used to back in the early 2000s," he told ABC News. "We lost about 100 parishes." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zielenieski expects he'll need to shut down another 70 churches in what the Diocese is calling its "road to renewal." It's a very biblical name for the challenge facing churches: People just aren't going as much as they used to. On average, more than half of the diocese's churches today are baptizing fewer than one person a month, and 59% of them are spending more than they take in, Zielenieski noted. MORE: Pope Francis in Papua New Guinea reaches out to 'peripheries' of Catholic Church "It's my job and role to not just pray about the situation, but to then look at the hard data and say, where does the church need to move?" he told ABC News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the late 1940s, nearly 80% of Americans said they belonged to a church, synagogue, mosque or temple, according to Gallup. Today, just 45% say the same, the analytics company noted, and only 32% say that they worship God in a house of prayer once a week. PHOTO: Churches around America and the world are struggling as attendance drops (ABC News) Another Gallup poll found that child sex abuse cases may be among the reasons for some people's absence from church. In 2019, 37% percent of U.S. Catholics, up from 22% in 2002, said that news of abuse cases led them to question whether they would remain in the Catholic church. In 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic, America was losing as many as 1,000 churches a year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some former churches are being converted for businesses or residential use. One old Methodist church in Atlanta, which was down to about 60 members when it closed, was sold to a luxury real estate developer seven years ago. Now, it's become a series of 3,000-square-foot condos. Some of the oldest churches in the world have even turned into bars and nightclubs. However, another Atlanta church is taking a different route. Pastor Jasmine Smothers is saving the city's First United Methodist church from closing with what she says is a "God-sized" plan. The most profitable thing they own is their land, and she's using it to build more than 300 apartments in the high-rent city -- most of which will become affordable housing. PHOTO: Pastor Jasmine Smothers says developing residential property on the church's land will help them stay open. (ABC News) "It's literally going to change the landscape of Atlanta in more ways than one," she told ABC News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smothers said the project will give the church the resources to help people and to continue its ministries. "In the words of one of my friends, this ain't your great grandma's church," she said. At Calcium Church outside Syracuse, New York, Pastor Milton LaSalle recently acknowledged to his small-town church that, after 171 years, they're in financial trouble. On a good Sunday, LaSalle has 35 regular members -- most of them are in the sunset of their lives. The church hasn't been forced to close or sell its land, the pastor says. "The aging of the church here, of course, is seen all over America. That makes it harder in a lot of ways. For instance, we lost five of our members last year to death," he told ABC News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LaSalle said he's confident Calcium Church will be able to stay open, but noted that they've had to make cutbacks. They still hold clothing and school supply giveaways, parishioners told ABC News. Parishioner Jeannetta LaSalle expressed the importance of the church in her life, saying that her fellow churchgoers are like family. MORE: NYC church redefines acceptance for LGBTQ+ people "It gives me purpose to get up in the morning," she told ABC News. In Buffalo, Father Zielenieski also noted how people turn to the church for comfort in times of crisis, like in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There's a sociological principle or idea out there that when times are good, people forget God," he said. "When times are challenging, they go to God first." However, Zielenieski highlights the danger of taking the church for granted. "We've never asked the question, how is it going to be there and how is that going to stay?" he said. The sale of the All Saints Church in Buffalo will close in the coming weeks. The priests told ABC News they have language in the deal that prevents the new owners from turning it into a place that encourages people to sin. Churches fight to stay open as attendance dwindles originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Press Release January 6, 2025 LAPID WANTS QUIAPO DECLARED AS NATIONAL HERITAGE CULTURAL ZONE Sen. Lito Lapid is seeking the support of his colleagues for the passage of a measure that would declare Quiapo as a national historical-cultural zone. The senator made the appeal as devotees celebrate on January 9 the Feast of the Jesus Nazareno, also known as the Feast of the Black Nazarene. Quiapo is the home of the Black Nazarene, or the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno. In his Senate Bill No. (SBN) 1471, Lapid stressed that Quiapo played a significant role in shaping and developing the country's history, tradition, arts, culture, tourism, religion, and economy. It was once the center of trade before the arrival of foreign colonizers, such as the Spaniards, Japanese, and Americans. "Because we recognize the significance of Quiapo in our culture and history, and its undeniable contribution to national development, the government should show its appreciation by designating the Quiapo District as a Historical and Cultural Heritage Zone," said Lapid, who plays the role of Supremo (Primo) in popular prime time tele-serye FPJ's Batang Quiapo. Citing an article titled, Quiapo: A Historical Sketch published in UP Digital Humanities, Michael Carlo C. Villas discussed that Quiapo acquired its name from Kiapo (scientific name: stratioies pistia), a water lily resembling cabbage , that was commonly found along Manila's esteros before Spanish conquistadors and friars first set foot on its territory. When the Franciscan missionaries arrived in Manila, they established the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene where the statue of Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno is enshrined, attracting devotees every January 9 and celebrating its feast day. When the Augustinians arrived, they also built St. Sebastian church. It is also in Quiapo that one can find the Globo de Oro or the first Muslim mosque, Masjid Al-Dahab. A collection of historical houses and other antique structures can be found in Quiapo. In a blog by Pio Andrade Jr., he discussed the American colonial period when Quiapo became the center of news publishing, such as El Renacimiento and Philippines Free Press. Quiapo also served as a witness to history, including the Plaza Miranda bombing that injured several senatorial candidates on August 23, 1971. Lapid said that the aim of his proposed bill is to revive Quiapo as an economic center, create new recreational facilities, and other opportunities, while preserving and maintaining the heritage and cultural integrity of the district. Gov. Phil Scott's fifth inauguration, and subsequent inaugural address, is slated for Thursday at 2 p.m., just one afternoon after the first day of the new legislative biennium. The inauguration will begin with Scott's oath of office, which has historically been presided over by the Chief Justice of the Vermont Supreme Court Paul L. Reiber. If precedent stands, Scott will then swear in the winners of all Nov. 5 statewide races except for lieutenant governor, including treasurer, secretary of state, auditor of accounts and attorney general, according to Senate Secretary John Bloomer. In previous years, there has been a performance, such as a children's choir, before the inaugural address. As of Friday, Jan. 3, neither Bloomer nor Sergeant of Arms Agatha Kessler knew if there would be one this year. Scott spokesperson Amanda Wheeler did not respond by deadline. Gov. Phil Scott criticizes the Vermont lawmakers for nullifying six of his eight vetoes for the year during a press conference the afternoon after the legislature's June 17 veto override session. Lastly, Scott will deliver his inaugural address, which Bloomer estimates may last between 30 minutes to an hour. The event will wrap up around 4 p.m., according to Bloomer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The inauguration will take place in the House Chamber on the second floor of the Vermont State House. However, seating is very limited and is first come, first serve. Alternatively, the public can watch the inauguration live via the Vermont House of Representatives' YouTube page, which is linked on the front page of the Vermont General Assembly website. Will there be an inaugural celebration? Scott will host his inaugural celebration on Saturday, Jan. 11 at 7 p.m. in the Barre Auditorium at 16 Auditorium Hill, Barre, VT 05641. Tickets are $50 per person and must be purchased by Wednesday, Jan. 8. For more information, including how to purchase tickets, visit Scott's website at philscott.org/inaugural or contact celebratevermont@philscott.org. What else is happening on inauguration day? Both legislative chambers will convene at 10 a.m. on inauguration day for the Canvassing Committee Report, during which the results for statewide races will be verified and certified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once certification is complete, the legislature will vote whether to elect to the lieutenant governor seat incumbent David Zuckerman (P/D-Hinesburg) or former state senator John Rodgers, a Democrat turned Republican. Rodgers beat Zuckerman by roughly 2%, but did not receive a majority of votes, leaving the decision up to the legislature as dictated by the Vermont Constitution. Although the legislature does not legally have to choose the candidate with the most votes, that is the historical precedent. 1976 is the last time the legislature selected a candidate who did not receive the most votes. Megan Stewart is a government accountability reporter for the Burlington Free Press. Contact her at mstewartyounger@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Burlington Free Press: What to know about Vermont Governor Phil Scott's inauguration This article was originally published by Source New Mexico. President Joe Biden issued two major disaster declarations in New Mexico in 2024, the first time since 2014 that pronouncement has been made twice in the same year, according to federal data. First, two wildfires erupted in the Ruidoso area in June. The South Fork and Salt fires and ensuing floods destroyed more than 1,500 homes and caused the deaths of two people. Then, in October, heavy rains caused devastating flooding in Roswell, a disaster that resulted in at least two deaths, as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In both instances, and for smaller emergencies before and in-between them, the state Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management responded. Smoke and the flames from the South Fork Fire which threatens the Village of Ruidoso June 17, 2024. Disasters of that severity require a multi-faceted response and coordination between numerous officials and local and state agencies. Emergency Management was at the center of all that, running into disaster zones, marshaling resources and fielding questions at angry town halls. Recently, Deputy Secretary Ali Rye reflected on a year of disasters in an interview with Source New Mexico. She described a tiring year and a small-but-mighty agency that is struggling to keep up with the before, during and after disasters because there have been so many. I mean, my staff is spent. I think New Mexicans are spent, Rye said. I think everyone is just, theyre tired, and theyre constantly in this response or recovery mode. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before 2022, the state had a reprieve of nearly a decade from major disaster declarations, according to Federal Emergency Management Agency data, excluding the COVID-19 pandemic. (Rye doesnt really count the pandemic she said, Because everybody got impacted by COVID.) The 2022 federally declared disaster was a series of wildfires burning throughout the state simultaneously. On a single spring day in 2022, 20 wildfires were burning at the same time. Thats the same year that the state experienced the two biggest fires in its history the Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire in northern New Mexico and the Black Fire in southern New Mexico. Both burned more than 300,000 acres. The trial by fires, while devastating for communities and exhausting for staff, has at least been educational, Rye said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I will tell you, though, we have learned a lot over the last two years, she said. And I think it showed this year with us being very proactive in areas that we knew were going to get hit, or us planning ahead for fire season, for monsoon season in a more proactive way. That meant meeting with residents and local officials in disaster-prone areas, purchasing needed equipment and staging it there in advance, Rye said. The ongoing fallout from the Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire shows the long tail and cumulative nature of disasters. More than two years later, even as disasters unfolded in southern New Mexico, staff was still driving all over the state, offering state case managers to help northern fire victims navigate a tangle of bureaucracy and support to local officials still trying to rebuild roads or mitigate against future floods. The same staff that help in Roswell and in Ruidoso are also the same staff that help in Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon, Rye said. And so my staff, I mean, they travel all over the state to be able to provide the assistance and the resources to these individuals who are still in these communities that are still recovering. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ryes core staff is two people, she said, though the office does employ others with the help of federal grants. So, yeah, its a lot, she said. But its rewarding and vital work, she said, helping people on the worst days of their lives. The office is hiring, and Rye is hoping to convince lawmakers to increase its operating budget from about $3.2 million to about $5.6 million at the upcoming 60-day session. The extra funding would help attract and retain staff, many of whom are lured away by federal disaster response agencies or elsewhere. As it stands, the skeleton crew cant take as much time as needed to help a community recover or prepare before another flood, snowstorm or wildfire. Were going so much that we cannot put in those mitigation efforts the way we really, truly would like to, she said. Were kind of just putting Band-aids on situations to keep the state afloat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Patrick Lohmann has been a reporter since 2007, when he wrote stories for $15 apiece at a now-defunct tabloid in Gallup, his hometown. Since then, he's worked at UNM's Daily Lobo, the Albuquerque Journal and the Syracuse Post-Standard. This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: New Mexico emergency management leader reflects on year of disasters Berlin, VT (myCV) Berlin Police have released surveillance photos of a car believed to be the getaway vehicle for a man whos injured a police officer and crashed into a grocery store in just a matter of days. Police say the vehicle they are trying to find appears to be a Subaru with Vermont Strong license plates. Officers say 22-year-old Devin Hallock from Williamstown, was allegedly seen on video getting into the passenger side of the car at Market 32 in Berlin just after 3:30 a.m. Sunday. Berlin police say Hallock was likely fleeing the scene after they say he crashed a white Subaru into the front doors of Market 32 in Berlin. Investigators say Hallock was allegedly seen driving the same car Friday night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The crash caused substantial damages to the front doors before bursting into flames, leading to further destruction. Police and firefighters arrived around 3:45 a.m., roughly 15 minutes later, and were able to put out the flames. But Hallock was gone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just 24 hours earlier, police say, Hallock allegedly injured a Berlin police officer when they tried to stop Hallock from speeding away the white Subaru. Officers received a complaint about a car behind the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Hersey Road, and when they arrived, they saw three people in the car, including Hallock. The car then quickly sped away, nearly striking multiple officers. Thats how Berlin police say one of their officers sustained injuries, although its not clear how they were hurt. The extent of their injuries, and their identity, are also currently unknown. Police say Hallock should be considered dangerous, as hes said before he would rather be shot by police than go back to jail. Hes now wanted for felony assault on a law enforcement officer, reckless endangerment and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone who knows where Hallock might be should contact Berlin police at 802-223-4401. Police also stress that if you see Hallock, do not approach him yourself. Instead, call 911. This is a developing story and will be updated as new information becomes available. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Alabama politics are never sedate. That helps when youre pulling together a year-end list on the subject. One thing you can say for certain: we didnt lack for things to write about. Below, my choices for the top 10 Alabama political stories of 2024. 10. An improved public records law Make no mistake, Alabama still makes it needlessly difficult to access public records. But a law sponsored by Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, provides something that was missing: a requirement for state agencies to respond to requests within a set timeframe. Before, agencies could ignore requests, and those spurned had little recourse except for a lawsuit. 9. Ivey fires veterans commissioner Alabama Department of Veteran Affairs Commissioner Kent Davis was fired from the position by Gov. Kay Ivey. Gov. Kay Ivey in September demanded the resignation of Alabama Veterans Affairs Commissioner Kent Davis, accusing him of delaying applications for a federal grant program and criticizing him for bringing an ethics complaint against Mental Health Commissioner Kim Boswell, which was later dismissed. Davis initially refused to step down but offered his resignation after meeting with Ivey. But in October, the Board of Veterans Affairs asked Davis to withdraw his resignation, saying they found no wrongdoing. Ivey fired Davis after the board voted to retain him. Davis attorney suggested that he may consider a lawsuit. 8. Marilyn Lands flips Huntsville-area state House seat Rep. Marilyn Lands, D-Huntsville, won a special election for a Huntsville-area Alabama House district in March, notching the first net gain for Democrats in the Alabama Legislature since 2002. House District 10 became vacant in 2023 after former Rep. David Cole, R-Madison, resigned amid allegations that he did not live in the district when he was elected in 2022. Lands, a licensed professional therapist who ran on reproductive rights amid a national controversy over access to IVF in Alabama, defeated Republican nominee Teddy Powell for the seat. Lands victory was the first net gain for Democrats in the Alabama Legislature since 2002. 7. Reed out, Gudger in Senate President Pro Tem Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman. Senate President Pro Tem Greg Reed, R-Jasper, announced in November that he would leave the Senate at the start of 2025 to take a job as a workforce development adviser for Gov. Kay Ivey. The Senate GOP, who hold 27 of the 35 seats in the upper chamber, chose Sen. Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman, to succeed him. Gudger sponsored a bill in the 2024 session that criminalized some forms of absentee voter assistance. He was also the single Senate Republican to vote against a voucher-like school program last spring. 6. Medical cannabis woes Over three years after the Alabama Legislature authorized medical cannabis, Alabamaians are no closer to accessing it. A Montgomery judge has entered a restraining order against the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission issuing licenses for medical cannabis cultivation amid ongoing lawsuits over the commissions procedures and its method of awarding licenses in 2023. Attempts to address the issues in the Alabama Legislature went nowhere. 5. Legislature approves voucher-like education act The Alabama House of Representatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CHOOSE Act extending up to $7,000 to children for nonpublic education expenses, such as private school tuition got pushed through the Legislature and signed by Gov. Kay Ivey within the first weeks of the 2024 session. The bill requires the Legislature to put at least $100 million into the program next year, and says the Legislature intends to increase that funding if demand rises. But lawmakers did not put any income caps on the program after 2027, and voucher laws in other states have blasted holes in education budgets. 4. Attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion programs bear fruit The Legislature pushed through legislation that banned public funding of DEI programs and prohibited teachers from affirming so-called divisive concepts at the risk of losing their jobs. While educators protested, the states institutions of higher education meekly knuckled under. The University of Alabama shut down spaces for its Black Student Union and LGBTQ+ resource center. 3. Figures wins 2nd Congressional District race Congressional candidate Shomari Figures embraces his wife Kalisha Figures as he takes a lead in his race during his election night watch party in Mobile, Ala., on Tuesday evening November 5, 2024. In an otherwise sedate election year in Alabama, the first contest in the newly drawn district configured to give Black Alabamians a chance to elect their preferred leaders proved to be contentious. Democratic nominee Shomari Figures and Republican nominee Caroleene Dobson, both attorneys, emerged from an 18-candidate field. The nominees offered starkly different visions for the congressional district in what became the most expensive U.S. House race in Alabama history. Figures won the seat, meaning that in January, Alabama will have two Black U.S. House representatives serving together for the first time in history. 2. Alabama conducts three nitrogen gas executions The state carried out three executions using nitrogen gas, the first known instances of the gas being used on human beings. The Legislature authorized the new protocol in 2018, with supporters arguing that it would be more humane. But witnesses reported all three men Kenneth Eugene Smith; Alan Eugene Miller and Carey Dale Grayson gasped and convulsed while being administered the gas. Those testimonies have not led state officials or federal judges to reconsider the execution method. 1. Alabama Supreme Court blocks IVF, causing national controversy Dr. Sarah Bragg shows photos of IVF babies during a protest rally for in vitro fertilization legislation at the Alabama Statehouse in Montgomery, Ala., on Wednesday February 28, 2024. In a lawsuit over the destruction of frozen embryos at a Mobile clinic in 2020, the all-Republican Alabama Supreme Court ruled that frozen embryos were children, and that the parents could sue for civil damages under an 1872 law. The decision led fertility clinics around the state to suspend in-vitro fertilization programs; sparked protests at the Alabama State Capitol and led Alabama lawmakers to scramble to pass a bill extending criminal and civil immunity to fertility clinics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move led to most clinics resuming services, and the lawsuits that sparked the Supreme Court ruling were later dropped. But its unclear if the IVF law could survive a subsequent legal challenge, particularly with a 2018 constitutional amendment that says the public policy of the state is to recognize and support the sanctity of unborn life. Brian Lyman is the editor of the Alabama Reflector. Brian Lyman is the editor of Alabama Reflector. He has covered Alabama politics since 2006, and worked at the Montgomery Advertiser, the Press-Register and The Anniston Star. His work has won awards from the Associated Press Managing Editors, the Alabama Press Association and Robert F. Kennedy Center for Human Rights. He lives in Auburn with his wife, Julie, and their three children. Alabama Reflector is part of States Newsroom, an independent nonprofit website covering politics and policy in state capitals around the nation. This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: The top 10 Alabama political stories of 2024 | BRIAN LYMAN KENNEBUNK, Maine Voters will have the opportunity to be heard loud and clear next month when they decide whether to strengthen the local noise ordinance during a special town meeting. Among the proposed amendments is the addition of a new term, plainly audible, that would be intended to provide local police officers with a better framework for handling the noise complaints they receive from residents and others. Kennebunk Select Board members voted to advance the proposed ordinance amendments to a special town meeting to be held on Tuesday, Feb. 11. Voters in Kennebunk, Maine, will decide whether to approve amendments to the town's noise ordinance during a special meeting on Feb. 11, 2025. The towns Ordinance Review Subcommittee spent several months last year drafting amendments to the ordinance to help provide a clear understanding of how officials can apply local regulations. Members of the public had opportunities to offer subcommittee members with input. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Town officials say the new term plainly audible would help police officers and code officials to determine excessive noise during situations in which it may not be practical or effective to use a decibel meter in the short term. According to the proposal, such situations would include loud music, ATVs, and other noises that might not be normal in the neighborhood in which they are occurring. The proposal also calls for private haulers to only pick up trash between the hours of 5 a.m. and 8 p.m. It also includes language that would help the town suggest a third-party sound engineer to take decibel readings at the request of someone making a complaint, should that need arise. Under this language, the town would not be responsible for paying the engineer for their time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The proposed amendments also clarify penalties and how noise violations would be enforced through the Maine District Court. More: York, Kennebunks, Wells projects coming in 2025: Hotel expansions, new homes and more New Kennebunk ordinance to help address noise complaints While the new language would speak to violations and penalties if approved, town officials emphasized that the proposed amendments are not intended as punitive. During a November meeting, Select Board member Lisa Pratt said the proposal, particularly the plainly audible component, is intended to give police a tool with more teeth to address noise complaints. This tool would enable officers to better inform individuals when their activities, such as playing loud music or using noisy equipment like chainsaws at inappropriate hours, are disruptive to neighbors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its meant to be educational, Pratt said. The measure also is intended for police to address a situation in a way that hopefully prevents it from advancing to ticketing or court action, Pratt added. At the same meeting, Select Board members Bill Ward and Kevin Therrien spoke about the vagueness of the term plainly audible, with Ward wondering how the phrase would play in courts and Therrien expressing hopes that it could be applied with fairness and balance. Town Attorney Natalie Burns said that noise ordinances generally tend to be somewhat subjective and that a term such as plainly audible will help the town tighten up its own ordinance a little bit and will help guide courts if ever complaints reach that level of legal action. The lack of such language in the current ordinance makes enforcement of it problematic, Burns said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Community Development Deputy Director Jay Lee Feldman also said the proposal recommends 8 p.m. as the new starting hour for the ordinances nighttime standards. Currently, that start time is 10 p.m. Moving the nighttime standard up two hours better recognizes when people, in general, tend to settle in for the evening and get ready for bed, Feldman said. Perkins Cove fire: Oarweed owners vow to rebuild, Uniques and Antiques future unclear Why Kennebunk is looking to amend town noise ordinance During a public hearing in December, two residents spoke in favor of the proposed amended ordinance. Im hoping, with its passage, that when police are called because there is some sort of very loud noise ... that (they) can now come and do something about it, Joan Hunnewell told the Select Board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Noise levels were front and center for at least two issues that town officials and residents grappled with in 2024. In one instance, Summer Street residents expressed concerns about the noise that could have been generated if the owners of the Wedding Cake House had been successful in turning the property into an events venue. In the other instance, residents in the neighborhoods surrounding a dog kennel on Alfred Road implored town officials to do something about the level and persistence of barking that could be heard coming from the business throughout any given day. Select Board Chair Miriam Whitehouse, however, said the towns subcommittee was prompted to look at the local ordinance by noise issues in general and not by any specific instance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve been hearing stuff for years, she said. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Kennebunk eyes new noise ordinance to silence complaints DURHAM Paul Dean, chief of the University of New Hampshire Police Department, is retiring from the states flagship university to join the incoming administration of Gov.-elect Kelly Ayotte. Dean will become Ayottes director of citizen services, a statewide role announced by her transition team Monday afternoon. Dean is officially retiring from his longtime University of New Hampshire police force post this Friday, Jan. 10, according to the college. Dean has spent 35 of his nearly 40 years in law enforcement at the University of New Hampshire Police Department. Dean has been the departments chief since 2011, and he also serves as the schools associate vice president for public safety and risk management. He is also the immediate past president of the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its hard to say no when the governor comes calling, Dean said in a phone interview Monday afternoon. UNH Police Chief Paul H. Dean Dean began working for the university police force in 1985. Five years later, he left to become the chief of police in Ashland, New Hampshire, then returned to the schools police department in 1995. Ayottes team offered Dean the position in mid-December, he said. He accepted despite his previous intention to end his career at the university, which he hadnt planned on leaving for several years. Dean stated he had no plans to retire prior to Ayottes offer. Now, days away from leaving campus, he said he will miss the daily interactions with students in Durham. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The world is changing, but dont lose hope, he advised current students. Theyre the future. These students are the future. Theyre going to do great things. I know they are because I work with them. What will Dean's role for Gov.-elect Ayotte look like? Deans hire was one of 11 staff hires announced by Ayotte on Monday. Neither Ayotte nor her team described the responsibilities of the job Dean is assuming. Chief Deans experience and outstanding character will be a valuable asset to the Governors Office as Governor-elect Ayotte and the team work to deliver for all of New Hampshire, said John Corbett, spokesperson for Ayotte, in a statement Monday afternoon My goal is to support the governor, Dean added. That should always be the foundational thing (for) the constituents, everyone in the state, is that she knows what the issue is and we try to look at those issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ayotte, a former Republican U.S. senator representing New Hampshire and the states attorney general from 2004 to 2009, is set to be inaugurated in Concord on Wednesday. UNH to pay tribute to Dean Aaron Howell, executive vice president for finance and administration for the University of New Hampshire, shared news of Deans departure on Monday morning. A celebratory farewell for Dean will be held by the University of New Hampshire in Huddleston Hall in Durham on Friday morning. Throughout his tenure, Chief Dean has earned a national reputation as an innovative and collaborative public safety leader, Howells Monday message to the university community reads in part. Under his guidance, the department consistently upheld the highest standards of service and community engagement. This commitment is evidenced by the departments continued dual accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies and the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators a distinction achieved by only a select few agencies nationwide. He was also a key leader with USNHs emergency management team in guiding (the University System of New Hampshire) through the turmoil brought about by COVID and helping our campus return to normalcy. Chief Dean has a well-established commitment to mental health training and collaboration throughout the law enforcement community and stakeholders, statewide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alongside Keene State University President Melinda Treadwell, Dean co-chaired the University System of New Hampshires COVID-19 response on college campuses across the state, collaborative efforts he looks back on with pride. Beginning in the 2020-21 academic year, months after campus had been shut down as the virus spread, students were required to test for the virus on a regular schedule, swabs were processed on-campus, and infected students were required to temporarily quarantine in campus housing. The pandemic not only took a toll on Dean professionally. Complications from the coronavirus claimed the life of his father, 90-year-old Douglas Dean, in May 2020. UNH took the bold move to remain open, Dean said Monday. (Former university) President (James) Dean had tasked me with leading that in a lot of ways. We had such a great team put together. It really showed me all the amazing people at UNH, all the scientists that are just unbelievable at that. I learned so much from them. They adopted me. Im really proud of us that we were able to stay open and we even developed a plan to have graduations. That was huge. That was one of the most important things. UNH Police Chief Paul Dean. Mental health support for students was another point of emphasis in Deans work, a charge he led with the memory of his brother who died by suicide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I know that UNHs efforts with mental health have definitely saved students here on campus, he added. My brother died by suicide. I dont want any family going through that. It's been a passion of mine getting help for students. I think UNH does it better than anybody. School's deputy police chief named interim chief Steve Lee, deputy chief of the university police department, has been tapped as the schools interim police chief following Deans exit, according to Howell. Lee is a 20-plus-year veteran of the University of New Hampshire Police Department and was named deputy chief in 2022. He has built strong relationships within the UNH community and our surrounding jurisdictions, Howell said of Lee. I am confident in his ability to provide steady leadership during this transition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A position description for the university police chief role will be created in the coming weeks, and a search is expected to kick off in the spring semester, Howell said. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: UNH Police Chief Paul Dean retiring to work for Gov.-elect Ayotte Wisconsin's population is estimated to shrink at a growing rate over the upcoming decades, according to a projection from the Wisconsin Department of Administration. According to the report, most Wisconsin counties will face a declining population by 2050. In total, it's a projected loss of nearly 200,000 people in the next three decades. Researchers say projected population decreases across most Wisconsin counties are associated with decreasing fertility rates or an increasing aging population, or a combination of both factors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state Department of Administration developed the population projections based on the U.S. Census Bureau's 2020 counts. Here's a breakdown of the report: Milwaukee County's population is projected to decline, says DOA The sun sets on the Milwaukee skyline and Marquette University in Milwaukee on Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022. - Mike De Sisti / The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Milwaukee County's population is projected to decline by more than 9% by 2050, according to the DOA report. An estimated 916,000 people lived in Milwaukee County in 2023, which is already 125,000 fewer people than 50 years ago. The city lost more than a fifth of its residents during that time period. The DOA projections also come at a time when Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson has a plan, known as Growing MKE, to encourage population growth to 1 million Milwaukeeans. The plan mainly focuses on updates to housing and proposed changes to zoning to increase density. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED: Part of Milwaukee booms as another shrinks. Can enough neighborhoods turn around to grow the population? Wisconsin counties with fastest decline in population: Here's a look at the Wisconsin counties with the fastest estimated decline in population by 2050, according to DOA projections: Florence County: -31% estimated population decline Adams County: -29.1% estimated population decline Richland County: -28.7% estimated population decline Rusk County: -27.7% estimated population decline Forest County: -26.1% estimated population decline Crawford County: -25.9% estimated population decline Price County: -24.9% estimated population decline Shawano County: -24.6% estimated population decline Langlade County: -24.5% estimated population decline Polk County: -22.1% estimated population decline Where is Florence County, Wisconsin? Florence County, Wisconsin, is located in on the far northeast part of the state. According to the report, it is estimated to face over a 31% decline in its population by the 2050s. Wisconsin counties with fastest population growth in population: Here's a look at the Wisconsin counties with the fastest estimated growth in population by 2050, according to the DOA: Dane County: 38.8% estimated population increase Trempealeau County: 33.9% estimated population increase Eau Claire: 12.2% estimated population increase Brown County: 11.5% estimated population increase St. Croix: 10.1% estimated population increase Clark County: 8.7% estimated population increase Jackson County: 7% estimated population increase Outagamie County: 6.2% estimated population increase Vernon County: 2.6% estimated population increase Calumet County: 1.1% estimated population increase RELATED: Are you in the middle class in Wisconsin? Here's how much money you'd have to make Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This story was updated to add a video. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin population expected to shrink by 200k by 2050, says DOA Press Release January 6, 2025 Legarda welcomes Fourth Installation of IFI Antique Bishop Estrella In a heartfelt address at the Fourth Installation of Reverend Father Leon T. Estrella as the new Bishop of Antique, Senator Loren Legarda reaffirmed her deep connection to her hometown and the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI). Speaking at the historic St. Jude Cathedral in Sibalom, the Senator expressed her support for the church's mission to promote faith, unity, and social justice. "As a daughter of Antique, I am deeply humbled by the grace of this moment. Today, I join you in this divine invitation as a renewal of our shared mission to serve, uplift, and unite," said Legarda during her speech. Legarda, a proud daughter of the province, highlighted her family's deep historical ties to the IFI and their contributions to its growth and development. As a member of the esteemed Gella clan, she underscored the legacy of service and leadership passed down through generations. The four-term Senator paid tribute to her ancestors, Pedro and Baltazara Gella, whose contributions to the province remain etched in its history. Pedro Gella, who served as the municipal president of Sibalom during a critical transitional period in the country's history, was a significant figure in Antique's governance. She also paid homage to Ariston Gella, a delegate of the 1898 Malolos Congress, who advocated for sovereignty and justice during the pivotal periods in Philippine history. She also recognized Vicente Gella, the founder of Colegio de San Vicente Ferrer in San Jose, Antique, for his efforts in awakening the minds and spirits of prominent Antiquenos through education. "Today, their resolve continues to echo, inspiring both me and my brother, Congressman AA Legarda, to uphold the transformative power of education, good governance, and faith to improve the lives of our beloved kasimanwa," remarked Legarda. Legarda also highlighted her advocacy for peace and social reform, recounting her work with the late Bishop Maximo Tomas Millamena. She underscored the role of faith leaders in addressing societal challenges, particularly in promoting peace, justice, and community well-being. "Bishop Millamena and I have walked paths of peace, courage, and faith advocating for social reforms, education campaigns, and policies that sought to uplift our communities. Together, we answered the call for peace negotiations," as she recalled talking with insurgents for the release of captives. "Our work, at its heart, is about building communities, especially right here at hometo serve the least, the last, and the lost. These acts of service were more than just gestures of kindness; they were expressions of faith, anchored in the truth that every life holds immeasurable worth and potential," she continued. As Bishop Estrella embarks on his new mission, Senator Legarda pledged her continued commitment to serving the people of Antique. Together with her brother, Congressman AA Legarda, she vowed to support initiatives that address poverty, hunger, and inequality in the province. "Bishop Estrella, as you take on this sacred mission, know that you do not walk this path alone. My brother, Congressman AA Legarda, and I, along with the rest of Antiquenos, stand with you. Together, we continue the work for Antique, with faith guiding our way. We will fight hunger, alleviate poverty, and build a future where all our kasimanwa have equal opportunities to grow, thrive, and succeed," Legarda concluded. The installation ceremony, held at St. Jude Cathedral on January 6, drew parishioners, local officials, and community leaders. Bishop Estrella's appointment marks a new chapter for the IFI in Antique, continuing the church's long-standing advocacy for social justice and inclusivity. TOKYO, Jan 06 (News On Japan) - A 46-year-old man arrested for vandalizing a restroom inside the Imperial Palace during the New Year's public greeting has been sent to prosecutors, with further investigations underway into graffiti found on a nearby manhole. The suspect, Daisuke Kobayashi, a landscaping worker, was arrested on January 2nd for vandalism after allegedly scrawling graffiti in a restroom at the Imperial Palace during the New Year's general audience. He was sent to prosecutors on January 4th. Subsequent interviews revealed that Kobayashi stated, "I came to the palace for the general audience. When I stopped by the restroom, the idea suddenly came to me, and I wrote it." The restroom in question is located along a path used by visitors attending the public greeting. Additionally, graffiti was found on a nearby manhole, prompting the Imperial Guard to investigate any possible connection between the two incidents. Source: FNN Welcome to Japan. If you've just landed at Narita Airport (NRT) and are wondering how to get to Tokyo city center on the plane, this guide will walk you through your first 60 minutes in Japan. From immigration, baggage claim, train & transport options, to getting your SIM card & cash. (Tokyo Kenchan) TOKYO, Jan 07 (News On Japan) - A prominent university entrance exam prep school in Tokyos Shinjuku district, Nichi-Gaku, has shut down its classrooms, with its operating company soon expected to file for bankruptcy. As the nationwide university entrance exams approach on January 18th and 19th, students have voiced concern and confusion over the abrupt closure. According to the attorney representing the operating company, Japan Academic Performance Promotion Association, declining student enrollment in recent years has led to severe financial difficulties, prompting debt restructuring ahead of the bankruptcy filing. Efforts are currently underway to find alternative schools for approximately 130 students enrolled at Nichi-Gaku, though a replacement institution has not yet been finalized. A second-year high school student attending Nichi-Gaku said, I never imagined something like this would happen to me. I feel especially sorry for the third-year students, who have so little time left. A student shared their experience: I had no idea. I only found out about the closure when I came here on Saturday for the start of the workshop. Meanwhile, a university student working part-time at Nichi-Gaku revealed that wages had not been paid since October of last year. The student expressed frustration, saying, I wanted to see the students through to the end. Its unfortunate for them. The part-time worker added: We can wait for our pay, but what matters most is that the students stay strong for next weeks exams. They are the ones who are truly suffering. While the total debt is still under investigation, a survey by Tokyo Shoko Research estimates it to be around 100 million yen. Source: ANN TOKYO, Jan 07 (News On Japan) - Foreign tourists have arrived in large numbers, joining the New Year crowds across popular locations in Tokyo. A live camera feed capturing the Hatsumode visitors at Sensoji Temple shows Nakamise Street packed with people. Due to the overwhelming crowd, access to the temples main hall has been restricted at times. Upon closer observation, the lines include a significant number of foreign tourists. A tourist from Italy shared their excitement, saying, "Ive been a fan of Japan since I was a child, and visiting here has always been my dream." The primary goal of this Italian tourist was to try omikuji, a traditional fortune-telling activity. After drawing their fortunes, the reactions were filled with delight. I got Daikichi! Wonderful! How lucky I am! exclaimed one visitor from Italy. Another added, I got Shokichi. Ive been feeling a bit stuck before starting a new chapter in life, but this makes me feel a little relieved. Meanwhile, in Tokyos Akasaka district, a line formed outside Itokuji Temple, where German tourists eagerly awaited their turn for a unique experiencemochi pounding. A German tourist expressed their enjoyment, stating, "I only pounded the mochi three times, but it was really fun." Joining the experience was a French tourist who said, "Ive watched mochi-pounding videos on Instagram many times, and I always wanted to try it myself." While most visitors came to enjoy Japans New Year traditions, some had unexpected reasons for their visit. One Italian tourist revealed, I saw something special near Yoyogi Park. They then showed a photo of a public restroom. The reason behind their fascination? This designer restroom appeared in the movie Perfect Days, they explained, referencing the film starring Koji Yakusho. When asked if visiting the restroom was their primary goal, they smiled and said, My main purpose is to see the beauty of Kyoto. The restroom visit was secondary. Source: ANN The Awujale of Ijebu land, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, paid a visit to President Bola at his residence in the Ikoyi area of Lagos State on Sunday, January 5, 2025. The visit was held behind closed doors. A statement issued by the Aafin Awujale and signed by the Onigegewura Akile Ijebu, Tunde Oladunjoye, quoted the monarch as expressing his appreciation to Tinubu and the federal government for the conferment of the second highest national honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on him on May 10, 2023. Tinubu conferred the second highest honour on Awujale during the celebration of his 90th birthday anniversary and 64th anniversary on the throne as the longest reigning first-class monarch in Nigeria. President Tinubu was represented on the occasion by Vice President Kashim Shettima. It would be recalled that Tinubu, in his bid for the presidency, started his nationwide consultations from the Awujale and after emerging president, he has gone back to Aafin Awujale in the Ijebu Ode area of Ogun State as he promised, to show appreciation to the monarch. A Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday admitted Olamide Thomas, who allegedly threatened Seyi Tinubu and the Inspector-General (I-G) of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, with a death threat on social media, to a N10 million bond with one surety in like sum. Justice Emeka Nwite, in a ruling on Thomas bail application, said there was no concrete evidence placed before the court by the prosecution that the defendant would jump bail. I have carefully examined the affidavit evidence of both the defendant and the complainant, he said. Justice Nwite held that where the accused person would not jump bail or interfere with the trial, it is in the interest of justice for the court to grant the bail request. The judge, who ordered the surety to depose to an affidavit of means, also directed the surety to present a three-year tax clearance certificate. He said that the surety must reside within the jurisdiction of the court. Justice Nwite equally ordered the defendant and the surety to deposit two recent passport photographs with the registrar of the court, and the address of the surety should be verified. The judge consequently adjourned the matter until Feb. 18 for trial. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Justice Nwite had, on Dec. 31, adjourned the matter for ruling after T.J. Aondo, who appeared for Thomas, and lawyer to the prosecution, Victor Okoye, made their submissions for and against the bail application. NAN reports that Thomas was, on Dec. 20, arraigned and remanded at Suleja Correctional Centre after she pleaded not guilty to the three-count charge preferred against her by the Inspector-General (I-G) of Police. Thomas was arrested on allegations bordering on harassing and threatening Seyi Tinubu, the I-G, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Police Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, in a viral social media post. In the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/636/2024, dated and filed on Dec 18 by the police team of lawyers led by A.A. Egwu, Olamide was sued as the sole defendant. NAN reports that in count one, Olamide was alleged to have, sometime in 2024, knowingly and intentionally transmitted communication in the form of video recording through computer system or network on her social media platforms wherein she made remarks in Yoruba language. In the video, she was alleged to have stated that Mr Seyi Tinubu would die this year, and misfortune and calamity had befallen the Tinubu family, with intent to bully, threaten, and harass the person of Mr Seyi Tinubu. The communication was said to have placed Seyi in fear of death, violence, or bodily harm. The offence is contrary to and punishable under Section 24 (2) (a) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024. In count two, the defendant was alleged to have intentionally transmitted communication in the form of video recording wherein she made remarks in Yoruba language to bully, threaten, and harass the person of Mr Egbetokun. The communication was said to have placed Egbetokun in fear of death, violence, or bodily harm. The offence is contrary to and punishable under Section 24 (2) (a) of Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024. In count three, Olamide was accused of intentionally transmitting or causing the transmission of communication in the form of video recording wherein she made remarks in Yoruba language, stating that the children of Adejobi would all die before his eyes. She was quoted to have also said that he (Adejobi) will bury all his children in a single day, with Intent to bully, threaten, and harass the person of Mr. Muyiwa Adejobi. The communication was said to have placed Adejobi in fear of death of his loved ones. The offence is said to be contrary to and punishable under Section 24 (2) (a) of Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024. When the matter was called on Monday, Thomas, who was in court, was represented by a lawyer, Seprebofa Oyeghe. By Israel Arogbonlo Labour Party national leader, Peter Obi, has taken to social media to ask Nigerians if he has crossed the line after receiving threats against his life, family, and associates following his New Years message. Obis message was met with criticism from Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who accused Obi of making absurd accusations against the APC and its supporters. Morka claimed that Obi had been way too sanctimonious and needed to relax and let his lawyers handle his case at the tribunal. However, Obi remains committed to speaking truthfully, especially as he believes Nigeria is drifting towards undemocratic practices and becoming increasingly authoritarian. Obis New Years message, which he shared again on social media, urges Nigerians to watch and share their thoughts on whether hes indeed crossed the line. He invites anyone to point out where hes gone wrong, reiterating his commitment to upholding decorum while speaking truth to power. Full statement below; I ask the question because my New Year message has now led to threats against my life, my family, and those around me. While I have received all sorts of messages, one Mr. Felix Morka has gone further to accuse me of crossing the line and has warned that I will face the consequences. I find it necessary to share this message again and urge everyone who has not seen it to watch: If I have truly crossed the line, I invite anyone to point it out, as I remain committed to upholding decorum. However, I will not be silenced in my resolve to speak truthfully, especially as our nation continues to drift toward undemocratic practices. We are increasingly transforming into an authoritarian and repressive regime, where freedom of expression is being systematically suppressed. May God help us create a better and freer society for the sake of our children. The humanitarian crisis in Burkina Faso has reached a critical point as over 2.5 million internally displaced people struggle to find safety and support, particularly in the capital city of Ouagadougou. The military governments stance on displacement has created a complex web of challenges for those seeking refuge from widespread violence. In the capital, which has largely escaped the conflict plaguing other regions, displaced individuals face systemic barriers to assistance. Without official displacement sites and limited access to international aid organizations, many resort to begging for survival. The situation is particularly dire for members of the Fulani ethnic group, who face additional discrimination in employment and education. The military regimes policy of civilian militia recruitment has intensified ethnic tensions, leading to increased violence against civilians. Recent data indicates a significant surge in militia-related incidents since the current leadership assumed power. Despite these challenges, authorities maintain that security conditions are improving and encouraging safe returns. The contrast between the capitals veneer of normalcy and the reality faced by its displaced population is stark. While Ouagadougou hosts cultural events and maintains an active nightlife, those who fled violence struggle in the shadows. Conservative estimates suggest at least 30,000 displaced people reside in the capital, though actual numbers are believed to be substantially higher. As violence continues in the countrys north and east, the influx of displaced people to the capital is expected to increase, straining already limited resources and raising concerns about long-term stability. Chinas top diplomat has embarked on his traditional New Year tour of Africa that will take him to Namibia, the Republic of Congo, Chad, and Nigeria, aiming to further advance Beijings already sizable influence across the resource-rich continent amid dwindling Western influence. The week-long tour by Chinas foreign minister Wang Yi marks 35 consecutive years that the the Chinas top diplomat has chosen Africa as the destination for his first overseas trip of the new year. In some analyses, experts contrast Chinas steady presence in Africa with the less consistent approaches of Western nations. They note that while outgoing US president Joe Biden made only one visit to sub-Saharan Africa during his presidency, China consistently places the continent at the forefront of its diplomatic agenda. China firmly believes that Africa has never been a forgotten continent, but rather a source of vitality and a land full of development potential, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson told the media. Wangs trip is widely seen as highlighting Chinas efforts to provide financial support to Africa, aiming to have discussions on major economic partnerships, secure more critical mineral deals, and expand markets for its exports, including electric vehicles and solar panels. His stop in the Republic of Congo underscores Beijings commitment to fulfilling the $51 billion in financial aid pledged at last years summit. Wangs visit to Chad, which coincides with Frances withdrawal of military forces from the country, is then widely seen as Beijings strategy to be more involved in solving pressing regional security issues. China has been a reliable and stable partner for the new military juntas in the Sahel and West Africa, says Eric Orlander, co-founder of the China-Global South Project. For the French and US, who see a dilution of Western power in the region, Chinas presence is seen as controversial, but its a very different view from African perspectives. Racers participating in the 16th Africa Eco Race Rally, which spans the route from Monaco to Dakar, reached on Saturday afternoon Dakhla for a stop before resuming their journey to Mauritania through Moroccos desert. This sporting event, held under the high patronage of King Mohammed VI, in partnership with Moroccan Sahara Rally Association, runs from December 28 to January 12 and features over 500 participants from 27 countries. Competitors include motorcyclists, car, truck, SSV drivers, as well as quad riders. Spanning 6,000 km over 15 days, racers traverse Moroccos desert before reaching Mauritania and then Dakar, their final destination at Lac Rose, where concluding competitions will take place. Moroccos segment marks a milestone in the race, featuring a route that connects Tangier to the Southern provinces of Morocco across five stages, namely Tangier to Tarda (Errachidia, 755 km), Tarda to Tagounite (Zagora, 357 km), Tagounite to Touizgui (Assa-Zag, 547 km), Touizgui to Laayoune (507 km), and Laayoune to Dakhla (500 km). The rallys general coordinator, Anthony Schlesser, told MAP that the Dakhla stop enables participants to take time to rest and prepare for the upcoming stages. He praised the warm reception he received in Dakhla, and noted that racers also expressed their admiration for the natural potential of the Southern provinces. The competition takes the form of regularity races on courses featuring slightly sandy, rolling tracks, thus highlighting the endurance, reliability, and driving skills of the participants. For safety reasons, every vehicle is equipped with a satellite tracking system that allows geolocation, and has a phone feature to call and receive calls from the race control centers. Organizers say that this off-road rally is a true human adventure, as it immerses racers in a unique atmosphere, on new tracks that emphasize driving skills, set amidst unforgettable landscapes. French President Emmanuel Macron called on Algeria to release prominent novelist Boualem Sansal, who has been jailed by Algerian authorities since mid-November. In keeping Sansal behind bars, Algeria was dishonoring itself, Macron told French ambassadors. Macron deplored that Sansal, 75, is denied medical care due to his arrest. And we, who love the Algerian people and their history, urgently ask its government to release Boualem Sansal, he said. The calls for Sansals release came amid worsening ties between Algiers and Paris. Algeria has recalled its ambassador to Paris in protest over the French sovereign decision to recognize Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara territory. Algerias president has called Sansal an imposturewho does not know his own father, in a blatant insult that indicates the political motives for detaining Sansal. Prior to his arrest, Sansal has given an interview to a French media in which he recalled the history of Algerias colonial borders, a taboo issue in Algeria. Sansal is facing grave accusations including terrorism and undermining national unity. Sansal has also been a vocal critic of the Algerian regime. His arrest drew a wave of solidarity from rights defenders and prominent writers alike. The growing insecurity in Algeria and heightened geopolitical tensions have pushed the UK foreign Office to issue a new warning against all travel to within 30km of Algerias borders with Libya, Mauritania, Mali, Niger, and Tunisia. According to British authorities, the threat from terrorism is higher in some parts of Algeria, especially in the southern borders and the Libyan and Tunisian borders. The main terrorist threat is from Al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and other regional Islamist groups including Al Murabitun and Daesh affiliates. Theres also a threat from individuals inspired by Daesh. These groups have been active across the country. Terrorist groups had kidnapped in Algeria foreigners, government officials and civilians in the region for financial gain and for political leverage. The authoritarian Algerian regime, which has strained relations with all its neighbors, is currently rocked by a growing popular discontent and unprecedented political and economic crises. The country is on the verge of implosion, following the collapse of Assad dictatorship. French authorities arrested three Algerian influencers on social media who threatened to use violence against Algerian regimes opponents in France. The arrest signals that France will take seriously the calls for violence emanating from figures with ties to the Algerian regime, which has mobilized many influencers to smear and attack opposition figures. A spate of hate speech and calls for terrorist attacks against peaceful Algerian dissidents in exile, notably in France, surged on the back of a new campaign in social media denouncing the deterioration of living conditions and the crackdown on public liberties in the oil and gas-rich country. An individual living in France under temporary residence permit, known on Tiktok as Zazou Youssef, was held in custody on charges of terrorism after he vowed to kill regime opponents. Zazou Youssef who has 400,000 followers on Tiktok was arrested in Brest after issuing assassination and rape threats against Algerian peaceful opposition figures. TikTok told AFP the account from which the video was posted had been banned for posting several videos that broke its rules on hate speech. Algerian opposition figures in France have for long alerted French authorities to the serious threats posed by pro-Algerian military regime influencers, who have indulged in disinformation campaigns, regime sugarcoating and attacks on dissidents abroad. Journalist in exile Abdou Semmar, who was sentenced to death by the regime, warned that the Algerian government was spending lavishly on an army of influencers on social media to sugarcoat its image. French President Emmanuel Macron hailed on Monday the unprecedented ambition of the partnership built with Morocco during his recent state visit to the Kingdom, at the invitation of King Mohammed VI. One of the highlights of recent months has been what we managed to build with His Majesty King Mohammed VI during the state visit, Macron stressed in his address to the annual French Ambassadors Conference. We have built a completely new partnership for the decades to come, covering every field. It is unprecedentedly ambitious, and to me, it is the very essence of this new approach, Macron said. This partnership must also be one of our relays for a reinvented African approach, Macron noted, highlighting the importance of joint initiatives the two countries can develop together in relation to the continent. Photo: Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images Its safe to presume that this January 6, rioters wont attack the U.S. Capitol building to prevent a joint session of Congress from certifying the winner of the presidential election. This time, Donald Trump won, so he and his allies wont be holding a frenzied stop the steal rally nearby on the National Mall. Even though some large angry crowd isnt assembling there today, the Capitol has been fortified to repel one, surrounded by big black perimeter fences, with security forces on the highest possible alert. This time, members of Congress and their staff wont have to flee and hide, their offices wont be ransacked, and U.S. Capitol police officers wont be swarmed and brutally beaten. Kamala Harris and Joe Biden arent trying to cling to power by any means necessary, and thanks to the Electoral Count Reform Act of 2022, the certification process itself is now stricter and the threshold to cause disruption higher than it was when Mike Pence refused to overturn the 2020 election outcome and became the target of Trump and his supporters desperate rage. D.C. is still going to be a mess today, but thats because of a big winter snowstorm, not a big political firestorm. The city famously grinds to a halt when any snow accumulates, and this storm is currently forecast to dump 6 to 12 inches of wintry mix on it. Schools and federal offices across the Capital Region are closed and roads and runways will be a mess, but Congress wont be shutting down. In accordance with the Electoral Count Reform Act, after every presidential election, Congress must hold a joint session to certify the results starting January 6 at 1 p.m. Until four years ago, Congresss certification of the presidential election results wasnt much of a quadrennial news event, just a somewhat boring, bureaucratic feature of American democracy. To the extent that it is still big news this year, thats mostly just in comparison to the aberration of last time and the fact that the person who inspired that violence, which he has rebranded a day of love, is back and legitimately victorious. The biggest political drama of the past week was Trump swooping in to save Mike Johnsons Speakership from a small group of House Republicans, in large part to ensure a Speaker was in place for the certification. The biggest January 6 drama moving forward will be how many people Trump decides to pardon among those who, unlike him, were held legally accountable for what happened four years ago. More than 1,500 members of that mob have faced federal charges, more than 1,200 have been convicted of or pleaded guilty to those charges, and more than 600 of them have received prison sentences. Trump has long decried their prosecution and vowed to pardon the peaceful protesters on his first day in office. The entire J6 Prison Choir probably wont be able to perform their version of the national anthem live at Trumps inauguration, but its possible they could be released in time to hold a concert at the White House a few days later. January 6, 2021, was an unprecedented attack on Americas democracy that broke the chain of peaceful transitions of power dating back to George Washington which took place even and especially if those transitions were contentious. This January 6 aims to make history by returning to form and restarting that chain. That should be celebrated, even if the president receiving the power doesnt deserve it, and even if he thinks he can erase the trauma and significance of the attack on the Capitol, free the people who carried it out, and imprison those who tried to hold him responsible. We should welcome back the peaceful transition of power, even and especially if Trumps return to power isnt welcome. Photo-Illustration: Intelligencer; Photo: AP Images Donald Trump has repeatedly promised that come January 20, he will institute the biggest mass deportation in American history. He has appointed Stephen Miller and Tom Homan, two voluble and competent immigration hard-liners, to pursue his draconian agenda, and says he will use the military, among other agencies, to carry it out. But Trumps grand plans will almost certainly crash into a more prosaic reality, one dotted with bureaucratic roadblocks and political hurdles. Dara Lind, a senior fellow at the American Immigration Council, recently wrote an illuminating New York Times op-ed about how the logistics of mass deportation might or might not actually work. (Lind worked at Vox.com for several years.) I spoke with her about what the first few weeks of the Trump administration might look like for undocumented immigrants, why the U.S.-Mexico relationship is so key to hard-line policies, and whether the American public will do less protesting this time around. You wrote in the Times: The question is not whether mass deportation will happen, its how big Mr. Trump and his administration will go and how quickly. That was about six weeks ago. Have you gleaned anything further since then about how the new Trump administration is approaching this? Its really tough to do that in the pre-inauguration environment, because theres no cost to the Trump team in leaking stuff that they may not in fact be willing to marshal a whole lot of internal capital to push as a priority. Which scares the people they want to scare. It has a chilling effect. If I were in their position, I would be thinking a whole lot about what are things that would be most advantageous to us in creating the kind of environment we want to leak rather than what are the things that we actually think we can get done on day one. The first time around, they just didnt have the staffing to do a lot of things. There were a lot of agencies that were just in holding patterns for weeks or months because they hadnt bothered to put the people in to do things differently than the Obama administration. This time around, they do appear to have learned that lesson. They have staffed up a much more traditional transition operation, and a more aggressive one. But there are still questions about how quickly they can learn internal operations, not just of the immigration enforcement agencies, but everything else theyd have to do for a really maximalist enforcement operation. Those are things that were not going to learn on day one. Its going to be a mix of what they are announcing which is going to tell us some things about major policy changes but will tell us less about just how much oath theyre putting into them operationally and stuff were hearing from people on the ground. A lot of the most important changes to how U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services adjudicated immigration applications were not things that they made announcements about. Theyre things that a few immigration lawyers were chatting to each other and said, Im also seeing this. And then you get enough data points in enough parts of the country to realize that this is actually a change in policy. So its going to be a mix of the kind of top-down stuff and then figuring out how far that percolates to the ground, and stuff thats bubbling up from the ground, piecing it together and realizing that its a directive coming from the top. Youve floated the possibility of the Trump administration just breaking rules to get their immigration goals met, and its very hard to predict the consequences of that. But lets say they do work within the confines of the law and just pursue the maximalist strict deportation policy that they can get away with at the beginning. One thing I took from your article is that theyre not going to deport 2 million people in the first week because its impossible legally to do that. Is that right? The two buckets that I expect this stuff to fall into are the bucket of high visibility/uncertain efficacy and the bucket of high efficacy/uncertain visibility. In the first bucket is marching hundreds of ICE agents into Chicago and having a big standoff with the mayor there. In the second bucket is targeting people who dont have to go through immigration court again because theyve already gone through immigration court and have already been ordered deported. They dont have to go into communities to find those people, so it takes fewer resources to conduct enforcement operations against them. But the thing thats going to be most politically appealing and least resource-intensive is people who are already in criminal custody. And deporting people in that category is probably overwhelmingly popular. Right, especially in places where they already have cooperation with local law enforcement. But thats already current policy communication between ICE and local law enforcement about database checks that often reveal the immigration status of somebody whos in custody. All of that has been going on for the last 15-plus years. So if somebody is being picked up for the first time since 2007, yeah, youre going to get a ping. But otherwise, that person has probably already come to the attention of the federal government. Similarly, there are a lot of people with final orders of removal who are still in the United States, and those orders havent been executed yet. In some cases, thats because ICE has looked at them and said, Its not worth it to us to deport you. Were going to just give you an ankle bracelet, but youre going to be allowed to just stay here. Come back to us in six months and well tell you if youre going to get deported yet. We saw in the first Trump administration that those were cases where people really were likely to get hoovered up. Again, thats really low-visibility because it involves literally walking into an ICE check-in office and getting scooped up there. But in a lot of those cases, the reason that ICE cant deport people is that the country to which theyd be going doesnt accept deportation flights or is accepting only a few. One of the very first leaks after Election Day was that the Trump administration would go after military-age Chinese men and deport them. To those of us who know how the operations of this work, that was a very suspicious leak because China has not been accepting nearly as many deportation flights as there are deportable Chinese nationals. You cant just force foreign countries to play this game. So the idea that they would be targeting those people for arrest and deportation they could do that, but theyd have to find somewhere to put them for a pretty long period of time, and then theyd run into Supreme Court precedent that says you cant detain people indefinitely. So are they really going to do it? Or is that just a rumor theyre putting out there? And a rumor thats already bubbling up in Chinese immigrant communities because theyre worried about it and they feel already somewhat under attack, and which youre going to encourage? And the question of who is low-hanging fruit already runs into all of these other questions. Will the Trump administration put their efforts toward building out more detention space? Will they put their efforts into playing hardball with a lot of countries and forcing them to accept more deportation flights? Where are they putting their energy in your first week? I think people imagine ICE agents swooping into cities and just disappearing people. The black-and-white letter of federal law is that right now under President Joe Biden, there is nothing stopping ICE from swooping into any given U.S. city, knocking on a whole lot of doors, asking people if they are in the U.S. legally, and if they cant give them a satisfying answer, putting them into custody and putting them in removal proceedings. The reason they dont do that is that, for one thing, its surprisingly hard to determine whether somebody is unauthorized if they dont tell you outright. But also because ICE doesnt necessarily have the human resources for that, and it doesnt want to put its agents in those situations. One of the biggest reasons that theres this really strong preference for picking people up from jails and prisons isnt just the fact that theyve already contact with the criminal justice system. Its that its much safer for a team of ICE agents to go into a jail and pick somebody up whos already in handcuffs than it is for them to go into a neighborhood and not necessarily have full operational awareness of whos in the house next door. Is it common that ICE agents get attacked? No, absolutely not. But theyre thinking about their own physical security as much as theyre thinking about the politics of it. Those concerns dont go away. Its just that if you have political leadership that isnt sensitive to those concerns Tom Homan, for example, has always been very big on trying to maximize feelings of insecurity. He said a lot during his stint under Trump the first time around that if youre here illegally, you should be afraid. Thats a really big part of his theory of how this is going to happen. So leadership may be pushing for the big showy stuff. But even if you have leadership pushing that, it doesnt mean that everything that happens after arrest doesnt immediately fall into place. Largely because of all the logistical hurdles involved? My organization put out a report estimating the costs of mass deportation, and the four stages of the process that are real question marks on costs are arrest, detention, putting people through immigration court, and the actual deportation. Some people dont have to go through all four of those. If youre already in custody in a jail somewhere, the arrest costs are much lower. If youve already been ordered removed, you dont have to go through immigration court again. But everybody has to get physically removed and everybody has to get detained, unless youre going to just put a bunch of people back out into communities with ankle bracelets. At that point, the question of are you engaging in something all that different from what is going on right now, when most of the people who the Biden administration released into the U.S. after crossing and getting caught by border patrol have theoretical court dates in the future? Theyre already known to the system, its just that they havent been ordered removed. Whats the difference between that and somebody youre arresting for the first time and then putting an ankle bracelet on and releasing? It becomes a little bit academic. Under the Biden administration, there was obviously a huge surge in migration across the southern border, and public opinion turned quite a bit to the right on the issue, prompting Biden to crack down. When Trump inevitably pursues an extreme policy like family separation or something we cant imagine yet, do you think that that sort of shifting of public attitudes might temper the kind of outrage we saw in the early days of his first administration? It wasnt like Trump got elected in 2016 despite people really caring a whole lot about immigrants; there was a really notable shift in public opinion in early 2017 as Trump took office. My bottom line on this stuff is that with the exception of hard-core conservatives who have taken a hawkish position on immigration, most of the voting public doesnt have really strong opinions on immigration. So there can be big swings when things change, whether thats the political landscape or events on the ground. But those swings dont necessarily reflect themselves in really hard-core committed activists turning out. 2017 was surprising because it wasnt just a big swing in the valence of public opinion, but a big swing in how important it was to a large swath of the anti-Trump center-left. One of the things I think might be different this time is that, unlike in 2017, when it was very clear that immigration was the one thing theyd thought a lot about changing on day one, this time theres a lot of stuff theyve said they want to change. Having the Project 2025 mandate for leadership out there as little as the Trump camp appreciated it during the campaign has had the effect of taking everybody who has a particular issue that they are interested in and concerned about and making them feel like their issue is under attack. Flooding the zone with fear. And its not that theyre wrong obviously the federal government is very large, and it can do a lot of things at once. But it does mean that unless you already cared strongly about immigration, theres not a whole lot telling you that you should mobilize on immigration as opposed to being mobilized on whatever your primary issue was. The other thing is family separation. And I want to take a sidebar here to point out that its always been the policy of the U.S. that if you are an unauthorized immigrant who has children here who are native-born U.S. citizens that you can be ordered deported. Like, there isnt an exception. Yes, people talk about anchor babies, and yes, there is a way that an adult U.S. citizen can ultimately petition for their parents to become legal immigrants in the U.S., but the provisions that allow you to be exempted from deportation because you have roots in the U.S. including children who are born here are extremely limited and extremely tight. And Ive literally been in the courtroom when a judge is telling a family that the fact that their kids would have to move to a place theyve never lived before isnt a sufficient reason to withhold an order of deportation. But it was the element of surprise that people really reacted to. Parents and children didnt know what they were getting into, and then they were yanked away from each other. If you dont have images of kids being forcibly taken from their parents, if the parent has a choice, we have seen that that is less compelling to people. Because I think theres a certain willingness of as long as youre making the choice, then you deserve the consequences. And in general, after family separation in 2018, weve seen a lot less willingness from the people who were showing up in airports in 2017 to engage on immigration. For me and for a lot of other people who were paying attention during the first Trump term, it wasnt family separation in 2018 that really sticks with us. It was the Remain in Mexico policy of 2019. Because there was tremendous humanitarian distress on the Mexican side of the border camps, where there was no clean water, no food, no personal safety, and a lot of incursions from organized and semi-organized crime. There was great press coverage of it, but nobody appeared to care. And even when it became clear that parents were sending their kids into the U.S. alone separating their families rather than letting them live in Mexico under this policy any longer, that still didnt mobilize people. So all of that makes me think that anyone who expects there to be massive turnout in the streets of the kind we saw in response to the travel bans in 2017 or to the zero-tolerance policy in 2018 is making assumptions that arent necessarily borne out on the ground. If theres going to be mass mobilization and pushback, its probably going to take some work. It may take the administration making some political missteps or overestimating the extent to which the public will go along, which is not impossible. Which seems quite probable. Exactly. But also, this is only going to become visible if theres a certain amount of friction to begin with. In a world where Eric Adams successfully orders NYPD to disobey state and local law and just turn people over to ICE, there wont be visuals in the same way there would be if ICE had to be engaging in removal operations in New York. So, it becomes this ratchet, right? If you dont already have a public that is up in arms about this, local officials will make different decisions. And if local officials make different decisions, it wont generate the kinds of moments that would galvanize public opinion. Meanwhile, the situation at the Mexican border has died down quite a bit. Biden has sharply tightened asylum rules, and crossings are way down recently. How do you expect things to change there once Trump comes into office, if at all? Is it even possible for a president to make border policies much stricter than they are? As much as White House officials of both parties love to believe that the most important factor in how many people are coming to the U.S.-Mexico border is U.S. policy, the most important factor is actually what Mexico is doing. The trend we saw in 2024 wasnt that Biden handed down a restrictive executive order in May and then crossings started falling. It becomes a really interesting question under the Trump administration, because under the first one, how much Mexico was doing to interdict people became a massive flashpoint of U.S.-Mexico policy. Remain in Mexico got expanded borderwide after Trump threatened, to an extent that Mexico appeared to see as credible, to unilaterally impose massive tariffs. So how much effort is Mexico putting into interdicting people going north? Are they going to allow us to reinstate Remain in Mexico for people who we catch and then send to them, even though theyre not Mexican nationals, to wait for court hearings? And will they accept people from other countries as deportations, as removals? Which is how the Trump administration would get around other countries not taking them back. Thats a really robust immigration agenda that they have to get Mexicos cooperation on. And theyre threatening tariffs, and theres this continued saber-rattling about how well go into Mexico with the military. Theyre very clear in their priorities. The Biden administration was asking for things on immigration, but also asking Central America for things on human rights and transparency and anti-corruption, and also trying to combat Chinese investment in the area, and all of that kind of thing. And its easier to negotiate if there are whole issues youre willing to say you dont care about. But its harder to negotiate if youre also saying that you want to just march the military in. Mexico, of course, has a new president. The outgoing president Lopez Obrador was very buddy-buddy with Trump, and the incoming president, Claudia Sheinbaum, is a protege of his. Yeah, and shes indicated that shell work with him. But at the same time, Mexico is working on an app for Mexican nationals, and theyre trying to expand shelter space for deported Mexican nationals. It does appear they take the incoming Trump administration seriously enough to anticipate that theyll have to take a lot of Mexican nationals back. How much capacity they feel they have for everybody else is an open question. So, that is the most important relationship. Panama is also a little bit important, just because its a choke point. But what happens at the border, and also how much Trump can do to remove people from the U.S., given the shell game of accepting nonnationals the U.S.-Mexico relationship is going to be so essential to that. This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Strategist Explains Our expert staff answers frequently asked questions in their areas of expertise and defines common terms so you can be a smarter shopper. Read more here. Photo-Illustration: The Strategist; Photos Getty Images If you walk into pretty much any dispensary, legit or illicit, and ask for something to help you sleep, theyll likely point you to the CBN (cannabinol) section. Youll find shelves lined with gummies, mints, tinctures, honey sticks, chocolates, and lollipops with names like Cerebral Tranquility, Drifters, and Sleep Releaf (love a good pot pun). The cannabinoid community consensus is that CBN helps you sleep. Heres what the science says. What actually is CBN, and how is it different from THC and CBD? Imagine that youre visiting your parents and find a joint youd hidden in your childhood bedroom years ago holding it for a friend, of course. When you smoke it, you dont feel the same high, but you do feel pretty damn chill. Thats because its no longer THC, the cannabis compound that produces a euphoric effect; its CBN. CBN is formed, over time, when THC is exposed to oxygen; its a degradant of THC, explains Marcel Bonn-Miller, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist and chief scientific officer at Charlottes Web, a pioneer CBD brand. Your stale stash has transformed into a different compound, affecting how it interacts with your bodys endocannabinoid system. The ECS is an internal infrastructure of signals and receptors that help regulate everything from memory and emotion to hunger, inflammation, and, yes, sleep. The system is activated by endocannabinoids that are produced by your own body, and also by phytocannabinoids, which are derived from plants. THC, CBD, and CBN are all phytocannabinoids that come from the same type of plant, cannabis sativa. THC comes from marijuana, defined as a cannabis plant with THC levels higher than 0.3 percent. CBD comes from hemp, a cannabis plant 0.3 percent THC or less (so CBD wont get you high but can potentially help you sleep because of its ability to reduce anxiety). And unlike the old weed in your drawer that eventually converted to CBN, commercially available CBN also comes from hemp. What does the data show with regard to CBN and sleep? This is very much a further research is required situation, but CBN appears to be helpful for sleep, says Michael Breus, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist and the founder of sleepdoctor.com who refers to cannabinol as C-B-Nighttime. Studies involving CBN flourished in the flower-power 70s, but the research was largely focused on the effects of CBN plus THC. There was a precipitous drop in cannabis studies in the Just Say No 80s, and now, cannabis research is making an Adidas Superstarstyle comeback, thanks to the legalization of hemp products in a majority of states. The more recent studies have been mostly cannabinoid combo platters: CBN + THC, which showed fewer awakenings during the night and feelings of being well rested in the morning; CBN + THC + CBD, which demonstrated improved sleep onset, fewer overnight awakenings, and increased total sleep time; CBN + CBD at multiple dosages and +/- melatonin or CBC (cannabichromene), in which all combinations showed a reduction in sleep disturbances. A fourth study showed that low doses of CBN on its own helped subjects fall asleep, fall back to sleep, and sleep longer and better. And the most recent study, designed by Bonn-Miller of Charlottes Web, was the first clinical trial for CBN and sleep to use a placebo control group. The study tested 20 mg. of CBN alone and also combined with varying levels (10 mg., 20 mg., and 100 mg.) of CBD. The surprising result? The CBN plus CBD combinations performed no better than the placebo, says Bonn-Miller. But the CBN-only group reported fewer sleep disturbances and woke up fewer times during the night, suggesting that CBN may be best suited for helping people stay asleep rather than fall asleep. Based on those results, Charlottes Web created its CBN-only Stay Asleep Gummy. So all signs point to yes: CBN can help you sleep, but none of the studies has been large or objective enough to be considered definitive. Does CBN have any side effects? Will it make me feel high? The CBN studies had few participants report adverse events, a.k.a undesirable side effects which included things like morning grogginess, vivid dreams, and restlessness. If youre taking CBN for sleep, restlessness is obviously the last thing youd expect or want, but Breus points out that sleep aids can sometimes have a paradoxical effect: Normally, people take Benadryl and fall asleep, but others can be climbing the walls. Another possibility is that if youre taking CBN that also has THC in it and youre not used to the effects of THC, it might make you feel kinda funky and high, Breus explains. There is, actually, a tiny amount of THC in CBN. Still, CBN is generally considered minimally psychoactive, though Breus acknowledges there just isnt enough data to be certain. Cant I just smoke weed before bed? Youd think, by the heavy-lidded look a few bong hits impart, that marijuana would help you sleep. Indica, a.k.a. in da couch, strains of marijuana, in particular, are known for their mellowing effects. But the role of THC in sleep isnt so straightforward. Research shows that THC has sedative effects and can make it easier to fall asleep, says Breus, but THC also lowers REM sleep and raises heart rate two things that are incompatible with good sleep. A combination of THC plus CBN could be the answer: As previously noted, some research indicates CBNs sedative effects are amplified when combined with THC, says Breus. CBDistillerys Shhh+ Distilled contains 5 mg. of THC and 5 mg. of CBN, which helps take the edge off taking the edge off. The bottom line is that all CBN research is still preliminary There isnt yet a general consensus on the best way to use CBN for sleep. If youre a cannabis newbie, look for products without THC in case its intoxicating effects make you feel ill at ease instead of relaxed. And whether youre taking CBN solo or combining it with other sleep aids, give it a few weeks to see if its having a positive effect. The safety profile of CBN is very good but skip it if youre pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a predisposition to schizophrenia or psychosis. And, yes, were going to say it: Before taking any new drug, talk to a health-care professional to confirm that there isnt an underlying medical condition thats contributing to your sleep issues. CBN products we like get the strategist newsletter Actually good deals, smart shopping advice, and exclusive discounts. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Vox Media, LLC Terms and Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us. The Strategist is designed to surface useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Every product is independently selected by our team of editors, whom you can read about here. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change. omg is Canada going to become the 51st state?! Welcome to America, Canada!! Everyone gets a gun and a bible that is just for looks, you don't have to actually read it! Reply Thread Link When you open the Bible theres a cutout in the pages with another gun inside Reply Parent Thread Link the bullets inside are actually just mini guns that shoot even smaller bullets too! Reply Parent Thread Link I am just tired of the constant news Reply Thread Link I think Ive seen this film before Reply Thread Link And I didn't like the ending Reply Parent Thread Link bye bitch! if he'd done this a year or two ago, maybe they'd have a chance of beating pierre but he totally squandered that also lol at him saying his biggest regret is not making electoral reform happen as if he didn't abandon that promise 30 seconds after getting elected Reply Thread Link The caveats that suddenly emerged as soon as he was actually in a position to fulfil that promise... Reply Parent Thread Link Right? Like oohhh actuallyyyyy we can't :( :( :( sorry! I know we promised! But it's too hard or something! :( :( :( Reply Parent Thread Expand Link I know some staunch NDPers who actually believed him and voted for him on that basis. I dont blame them for being optimistic lol but I was very, very cynical that any party that wins a majority would ever institute electoral reform. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link My very conservative family is losing their shit. Its going to be an exhausting couple Of weeks. Reply Thread Link so is Poilievre taking charge this semester or next? we know it will be that pos anyway Reply Thread Link there is no one in the liberal party that could step up and win an election right now, unfortunately. we just have to pray that milhouse does a bad enough job that we'll have another election soon after. Reply Parent Thread Link He'll be next in. At best, the Liberals will be fighting for 2nd place. The most optimistic outcome would be the Liberals and NDP waking up, smelling the coffee, and securing enough support to get the Conservatives down to a minority government, but that would require a miracle. Reply Parent Thread Link parliament won't be coming back till the end of march, at which point we'd likely get an election called typically six weeks, so may Reply Parent Thread Link the fuck Trudeau bumper sticker crowd will have to find a personality now. When that compromised turd PP wins and nothing changes or changes for the worst. I want to know who theyll blame. Reply Thread Link Immigrants, esp. women. And let's be honest they already do. Reply Parent Thread Link The rising anti-immigrant sentiment is scary, theyve literally built this country. Reply Parent Thread Link Nah, they wont. Theyll continue dining out on this and blaming Trudeau and the Liberals for anything and everything in perpetuity. Anything to distract from the real issues. Reply Parent Thread Link They will blame both immigrants and Trudeau for years to come. My TikTok is full Of white people complaining about immigrants in Canada and (ironically) being the minority now. Reply Parent Thread Link Ugh I wish there's a good candidate lined up to take over but as usual they shit the bed. I don't want fucking PP elected at all. This guy hasn't had a real job in his life and he wants to serve the public? Get real. Reply Thread Link Like PP is a bum. And the fact that Conservatives/RR nuts are propping him up is just laughable to me because the guy has never properly worked ever. Reply Parent Thread Link PP is a career politician who has not only done nothing in his life but also secured his own government pension years ago. Yet he has the audacity to go after Singh about Singh's pension (which wouldn't even be half the size of PP's due to PP's insane tenure as a bottom-feeder in the Conservative caucus). I do think Singh has been holding onto his seat for waaay too long and him refusing to step down before this election (which also has the optics of refusing to step down as party leader before his pension is secured) was a big mistake, but PP is unnecessary government bloat personified. His entire existence as a politician is a mistake. Reply Parent Thread Link I do like that how the NDP held the Liberals to passing some progressive policies. But I don't quite like Singh's way of doing politics. I know politicians will just say what they have to in order to win and he wants the NDP to win, but in previous elections, he was acting like electing the Liberals was the same as electing the Cons. I have eyes and ears, and no it's not the same. You're not going to make me like your party by saying shit like that. Honestly, Jack Layton was always going to be a hard act to follow. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link The fact that a right-wing career politician like him has co-opted the language of economic populism and working class concerns is laughable. This guys entire career has been bankrolled by taxpayers but Im supposed to believe hes some working-class hero Reply Parent Thread Link I'm so nervous. Reply Thread Link I'm scared for what is to come, especially when it comes to the rights that could be lost. Reply Thread Link we are so fucked. i'm about to become a separatist for real. i'm going to leave all my comments in french going forward. Reply Thread Link I really don't mind speaking French but I loathe the Quebecois' entitlement and attitude. Quebec's only the land of French because they were all colonialists who slaughtered all the Indigenous people who are the true people of this land; if there's any language we should be learning, it's theirs and not French! Edited at 2025-01-07 04:50 am (UTC) Reply Parent Thread Link I've taken some classes about indigenous history in Canada, and frankly, Quebecois/the French really don't have the monopoly on being colonialists. If anything, colonialism wasn't as bad until the English showed up, but that is a very, very low bar. Treating our Native population better is something that should happen regardless, and has nothing to do with French-Canadian culture. I'm a native French speaker, and Quebecois' attitude, as you call it, is the only reason we have held on to our culture. I'm not saying Quebec is exempt of criticism, but man, Anglos often don't get how difficult it is to try to survive in an ocean of English speakers who think life would be much easier if you just were like them. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link I think it is good that he stepped down, and I wish he had done it sooner. Even the most popular Prime Ministers never last more than 10 years. Had he not, it was assuredly going to be a huge Conservative majority. As it is, we might still be stuck with Poilievre (ugh), but there is more of a chance it won't be as big of a sweep. I really have no idea who will replace Trudeau. Chrystia Freeland? Mark Carney? In case people don't know Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the Conservatives in Canada, recently he did an interview with Jordan Peterson (!); he totally fits in that far-right grift. Reply Thread Link People discovering Jordan Peterson's old tweets because of that interview has been a wild ride. Lots of fodder for r/leopardsatemyface come ~October. Reply Parent Thread Link I don't really pay close attention to the federal Liberal bench so there might be other names out there but Freeland and Carney are the first two that come to mind for me. and are two who I would feel comfortable voting for in a federal election. the problem with Carney is he's been away from the political scene for too long for the general public to know who he is or his history. maybe if he were to take the leadership and then after a few years of PP (really doubt he'd make it a full 5 years but who knows in this weird reality), he could have a viable chance at being PM. Freeland is likely the best choice but I wonder if a) the party would agree) and b) she could pull a large enough vote share federally to become opposition. Reply Parent Thread Link The problem for Freeland is that she is too closely associated with Trudeau, I think. She will be made to answer for his decisions. Also, women always have more of an uphill battle to get elected at the national level. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Carney is the only option tbh. Freeland has no chance and regardless of her experience, the Liberals would be insane to elect her as leader. (So I mean. 50/50 chance that they do it.) Reply Parent Thread Link I personally think we are fucked. As much as people don't like Trudeau, I really don't think any other politician is primed to deal with Trump. Also, it's way too late to introduce Canadians to a new Liberal leader so... Reply Thread Link Sorry this probably shows how much I dont know about Canadian politics but why is he resigning / is he hated by Canadians now? I know he was not as popular as before but did he do something? I didnt realise it was this bad. Is this resignation a good or bad thing? Reply Thread Link his resignation is a good thing because his approval ratings are in the toilet and he doesn't deserve to stay, but his timing is horrible because we're having an election this year and there's not enough time to get a new leader in who can prevent our right wing party from coasting to a huge win as for the reasons he's hated...how long do you have, lol? the cost of living is wild here, we have a housing crisis, his entire tenure has been plagued with scandals, and then there's all of the gripes that weirdo conservatives have about his handling of covid and the economy editing to add that we also have a broken immigration system on top of everything else. we've brought in a lot of international students because they get charged tuition costs much higher than what canadian citizens pay. these students get totally taken advantage of and when they arrive here they have awful job prospects, lack of access to decent housing, a low chance of staying here permanently, and they face sooooo much racist vitriol Edited at 2025-01-06 07:31 pm (UTC) Reply Parent Thread Link He hasn't done anything (which is kind of the problem lol). There is growing disapproval within the Liberal party that got worse and fell apart when his finance minister/deputy prime minister resigned last month. Reply Parent Thread Link Even popular Prime Ministers rarely last more than 10 years in Canada. That's just how it goes. If you look since WWII, Mackenzie King lasted 13 years because of WWII. Trudeau's dad served 11 years before he got kicked out, the Conservatives took over for 9 months and failed over their budget, then Trudeau won again another 4 years. Otherwise, Harper stayed in power 9 years, Chretien stayed in power 10 years, Mulroney was in power 9 years,... That's how long the Canadian public will like someone until it wants change. Reply Parent Thread Link chretien was only there for a decade? i feel like he was there for like 20 years lol. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Stop pitting baby hippos against each other, there's room in our hearts for more than one! Reply Thread Link And this one is even wearing Sabrina Carpenter blush!! Reply Thread Link Aww she is a local celebrity to me!! My boss & coworkers were discussing her birth the other day. Move over, Francine the local RVA Lowes cat, Poppy is here. She's got a point, she's an icon, she's a legend and she IS the moment! Reply Thread Link moo deng has been on my shit list since she predicted the trump presidency Reply Thread Link She did? Reply Parent Thread Link she just knows humans are trash calm down Reply Parent Thread Link She was trying to warn us Reply Parent Thread Link like when birds fly away before natural disasters strike Reply Parent Thread Link Lmao, this is so dramatic of me, but I literally couldnt look at her posts for like a week after. Reply Parent Thread Link There can never be enough pygmy hippos. Reply Thread Link Third calf in five years? Girl you busy (I don't know how long their pregnancy takes). Reply Thread Link Google says 6 to 7 months LOL, but Poppy's mother (and Poppy in the future) have the important mandate to repopulate their species. Reply Parent Thread Link That's too much pressure! Reply Parent Thread Link Before I stan, what are Poppys political leanings ? Reply Thread Link moo deng is my queen. poppy is my new queen. i want to slide around with all the baby pygmy hippos as long as their moms are cool. Reply Thread Link She's so pink! Reply Thread Link Thank the Goddess Poppy won. Who the fuck wanted Hammie May for that sweet, sweet bb? Reply Thread Link Hammie Mae is offensive tbh, Poppy is adorable and I love her!!! Moo Deng is so iconic because we actually dont know much about Pygmy hippo behaviors so it I cant wait to see what Poppys personality is going to be like Reply Thread Link I love all the baby hippos Moo Deng, Haggis, Poppy, all of them! Reply Thread Link lol, haggis is a perfect name for a hippo Reply Parent Thread Link Same. Gimme all of them! Reply Parent Thread Link how could you forget fiona Reply Parent Thread Link And her half-brother Fritz, but nobody cares about males. (Fiona isn't a pygmy hippo though, she was just tiny.) Edited at 2025-01-06 10:01 pm (UTC) Reply Parent Thread Link I love her too!! Reply Parent Thread Link mte, there's no compeititon between these three iconic queens! Reply Parent Thread Link Moo Deng in her flop era. May as well call her Katy Pygmy now tbh. Reply Thread Link Don't attack minors! Reply Parent Thread Link they're so cute but i had to study hippos in elementary school at the zoo and i remember being salty about it because they weren't my top choice and all they did was chill in their pool and poop lol Reply Thread Link If they're not attacking people. Reply Parent Thread Link Humans made Pygmy hippos almost extinct because they eat cocoa leaves and humans took it all. Attacking is fine imo. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Venezuelas oil exports managed a notable 10.5% climb in 2024, hitting their highest levels since 2019. State oil company PDVSA and its joint venture partners have deftly maneuvered through shifting U.S. sanctions and a domestic economy teetering on chaos. The result? A respectable 772,000 barrels per day (bpd) average export volume for the year. Much of Venezuelas success stems from Washington's leniency under President Biden, who issued individual licenses that enabled Chevron and other partners to ship Venezuelan crude stateside. Chevron, in particular, was able to recover hefty debts from Venezuela through crude oil exports. Venezuelas shipments to the U.S. surged 64% to 222,000 bpd last year, pushing the United States into Venezuelas second-largest crude oil export destination. Still, the biggest recipient of Venezuelas oil remains China, albeit with a notable 18% drop in volumes compared to the prior year. India, for its part, has emerged as a serious contender for Venezuelan crude oil importer, with the country ramping up its crude oil imports to 63,115 bpd in 2024 from just 10,300 bpd the year before. With a new recently deal inked, India could be poised for an even bigger slice of Venezuelas crude pie in 2025 through a swap deal after Indias Reliance halted purchases of Venezuelas crude oil in March. The catch? Venezuelas export gains might be on borrowed time. Frequent refinery outages continue to plague operations, and Decembers monthly export volume dipped to 756,000 bpd from Novembers peak of 974,000 bpd, leaving the market to wonder whether the downturn is a blip or a trend. To top it off, U.S. policies could change sharply under new leadership, potentially throttling future exports. As Nicolas Maduro preps for his contentious third term, Venezuelas oil strategy remains a high-stakes balancing act between domestic survival and international diplomacy. For now, the nation is riding a wave of rising crude oil productionup 17% year-over-yearand robust partnerships. Whether that momentum will endure or collapse under political and operational pressures is anyones guess. By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Following the surprise removal on 8 December of President Bashar al-Assad after 53 years of his familys rule in Syria, long-dormant plans in the U.S. are being dusted off about what will happen next there and who will control it. The plans were drawn up in anticipation that Bashar al-Assad would fall soon after July 2011, a senior energy security source who worked closely with the administration of then-U.S. President Barack Obama exclusively told OilPrice.com. At that point [when defectors from the Syrian army formed the Free Syrian Army and began an armed conflict across the country], Washington was certain that he [al-Assad] would fall in a matter of weeks, so they expedited the existing planning for that contingency, as did Russia and Iran, and the European Union too, he said. The plans for each included options to support its [Syrias] production of oil and gas as this was a key source of its revenues, he said. These were to run in parallel with, and support, whichever group finally came out on top after he [al-Assad] was removed from the picture, he added. At the time of the outbreak of hostilities in 2011, Syria had been producing around 400,000 barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil from proved reserves of 2.5 billion barrels. For a long period before that prior to the recovery rate dropping off due to a lack of enhanced oil recovery techniques being employed at the major fields -- it had been producing nearly 600,000 bpd. Europe imported at least US$3 billion worth of oil per year from Syria up to the beginning of 2011, and many European refineries were configured to process the heavy, sour Souedie crude oil that makes up much of Syrias output, with the remainder being the sweet and lighter Syrian Light grade. Most of this some 150,000-bpd combined went to Germany, Italy, and France, from one of Syrias three Mediterranean export terminals: Banias, Tartus, and Latakia. As an adjunct to this, a multitude of international oil companies were operating in Syrias energy sector, including the UKs Shell, Petrofac and Gulfsands Petroleum, Frances then-Total, the China National Petroleum Corporation, Indias Oil and Natural Gas Corp, Canadas Suncor Energy, and Russias Tatneft and Stroytransgaz. Syrias gas sector was at least as vibrant as its oil one, with proved reserves of 8.5 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of natural gas, and around 316 billion cubic feet per day (bcf/d) of dry natural gas produced. After the fighting began in earnest in 2011, the first of the three major options to support the Syrian energy and financial infrastructure for whichever group took over was from the U.S. This involved moving gas from Qatar through Saudi Arabia and Jordan, then through Syria whereupon it could be moved into Turkey and sold on in the rest of Europe, if resources allowed. The European option involved United Nations peace-keeping monitors in Syria, bringing in hydrocarbons industry experts from the UN Security Council member states, and letting the Qatar-Syria-Turkey, and Iran-Iraq-Syria-Turkey, pipelines develop organically over time. The Russian option focused on resuscitating the Iran-Iraq-Syria pipeline, moving Iranian, and later Iraqi and Syrian gas into Europe. Related: Signs of Optimism in Oil Markets as a New Year Begins However, as al-Assad survived the initial phases of the uprising crucially supported by the Russian military -- he went with the Russian energy and financial option focusing long term on the Iran-Iraq-Syria pipeline plans shorter-term on the build-out of Syrias oil and gas infrastructure. In 2017 this was formalised in a memorandum of understanding that encompassed 40 energy projects, plus the full reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Aleppo thermal plant, the installation of the Deir Ezzor power plant, and the expansion of capacity of the Mharda and Tishreen plants, with a view to re-energising Syrias power grid and restoring the main control centre for the grid back to Damascus. Consequently, it was little surprise that early on after al-Assad fled to Moscow a month ago, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov confirmed that his country had been in direct contact with the radical Islamist group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), about the future of its energy projects, and of its key military bases across Syria as well. These comprise the naval base at Tartus Russias only Mediterranean port, its Khmeimim air force base near Latakia, and its huge listening station nearby. Aside from these prized assets, there are three other reasons why Syria remains so crucial to Russias core geopolitical strategy in the Middle East and globally, as fully analysed in my latest book on the new global oil market order. First, it is the biggest country on the western side of the Shia Crescent of Power that Russia had been meticulously developing for years as a counterpoint to the U.S.s own sphere of influence centred then on Saudi Arabia (for hydrocarbons supplies) and Israel (for military and intelligence assets). Second, it offers a long Mediterranean coastline from which Russia can send oil and gas products or anything else it wanted from itself or from its allies (notably Iran) for export into major oil and gas hubs in Turkey, Greece and Italy or into Africa. And third, it highlighted to other countries in the Middle East and beyond Russias willingness and ability to act decisively on the side of the autocratic dynasties across the region. Aside from denying Russia all these direct benefits (and doing the same for China indirectly) which has enormous value in itself -- the U.S. and its allies also understand the key role that Syria was to play logistically for Russias plans to expedite Irans long-desired Land Bridge and for Chinas broader ambitions for its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The Land Bridge running from Iran across Iraq, and into Syria -- was close to being operational by the time al-Assad was removed and would have provided and Russia to exponentially increase weapons delivery into southern Lebanon and the Golan Heights area of Syria. This would have dramatically increased the ability of Iran and its proxies to launch attacks on Israel as part of a broader rolling plan to further destabilise the Middle East. China would also have benefited from the same advantages inherent in a Syrian presence as Russia, particularly as the two countries include the dual-use of airports and seaports by both its civilians and its militaries as part of their standard cooperation agreements across the Middle East, most notably for Iran, Iraq and al-Assads Syria. Additionally complementary to Russias previous plans for Syria was the recent announcement of the China-backed US$17 billion Strategic Development Road (SDR) which will create a major transport corridor from Basra in Iraq to southern Turkey (close to the Syrian border), and link in with Chinas BRI. The planned linkages between the SDR and Chinas BRI would allow Beijing to further build up its own security presence across the region and also open the way for synergies with plans for the Land Bridge. That said, shortly after Russia established contact with the HTS rebel group after al-Assad was removed last month, NATO member Turkey sent its own delegation to Damascus to discuss supplying Syria with electricity and rebuilding its oil and gas sector. Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar said his country is studying how to use Syrias oil and natural gas resources for reconstruction. Given the countrys huge geopolitical importance, it is not surprising that several formerly impeccable senior security and energy sources in Washington, London, and Brussels exclusively told OilPrice.com just after al-Assads removal that the sudden and otherwise inexplicable success of the Syrian rebels led by HTS was in no small part connected to a massive surge in U.S. and U.K. support for them in the run-up to the coup. The U.S. wanted to put Moscows and Tehrans leadership on notice that Washington can easily redraw and restructure borders and regimes in not just the Middle East but also in Eastern Europe, if it wants to, a senior security source in the European Union (E.U.) told OilPrice.com. As hes [al-Assad] gone now, I cant see either Washington sitting back and allowing anyone to benefit from this other than the U.S., and if the reconstruction is done in a gradual and inclusive [with Syrias principal former rebel groups], the outcome may be better than seen elsewhere in the region, he concluded. By Simon Watkins for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com The rising energy prices are adding to the challenges facing the European automotive industry and could lead to increased LNG exports from the US to Europe. Samantha Dart, co-head of global commodities research at Goldman Sachs, said colder-than-average weather across the EU "is a stronger driver" than the halt in Russian NatGas exports via Soviet-era pipelines running through Ukraine, which will, in turn, pressure EU NatGas prices higher. By Friday, EU NatGas prices reached levels not seen in over a year, exceeding 50 EUR/MWh. "While this week's key headline in natural gas has been the halt in the residual Russian gas flows through Ukraine, the main tightening driver of NW European gas fundamentals this winter is in our view colder-than-average weather currently forecast for the next two weeks, aided by low wind power and Norwegian production outages observed in December," Dart said. She continued: "If this cold forecast realizes without other offsets, we see significant risks that TTF prices rally towards oil-switching economics in a 63-84 EUR/MWh range in the coming months, well above our 40 EUR/MWh 2025 TTF base case under average weather, to help manage European gas storage." The latest data from Bloomberg shows that EU Natgas storage is 71.8% full at the start of the new yearthis is well below the 16-year average of 74.29% for the same point in time. This indicates that increased heating demand and tightening supplies will force the continent to draw down supplies at the quickest rate in four years. Here's more from Dart's note: NW European tightening from Ukraine flow halt modest so far... We estimate that the halt in Russian gas flows from 42 mcm/d to zero from January 1st, which had been our base case and largely market consensus, represents a net tightening to NW Europe gas balances in the order of 16 mcm/d (2.7% of our 2025 expected demand in the region). To be clear, while NW Europe was not receiving any of that gas, we expect Austria to rely on pipeline imports from Germany to cover its gas demand1 and potentially additional marginal flows to complement Slovakia's needs. Preliminary data for January 1st show German gas exports to Austria up by 9 mcm/d on the day. ...especially when compared to significantly colder-than-average weather forecasts. A more significant and surprising tightening driver of January gas balances are the much-colder-than-average temperatures currently forecast for NW Europe for the next two weeks, over 4C below the ten-year average. If realized, we estimate such low temperatures would lift NW European gas demand by more than 100 mcm/d in January. Stock-out risks are low, but storage refill, a challenge. To be clear, we see risks of an inventory stock-out as very low, even under such a cold weather forecast. The main challenge for Europe is that the lower that end-March storage levels are, the harder it will be for the region to refill ahead of the next winter. Specifically, under the colder-than-average scenario that is currently forecast, and assuming no offsets elsewhere in the balance, we would estimate end-Mar25 inventory levels to drop to 30% full (vs 35% under average weather). This would imply end-Oct25 storage levels in the low 80s% (vs high 80s% under average weather), well below the 90% full EU requirement. More specifically, we estimate this scenario would create a 21 mcm/d deficit in the market during the 2025 summer (relative to the 90% full EU storage target). G2O switching and LNG can solve 2025 tightness - at a price. Given European gas prices are already fully above hard coal generation costs, the next source of demand substitution is gas-to-oil (G2O) switching, in a 60 EUR/MWh (fuel oil) to 78 EUR/MWh (distillate fuel) range. During Europe's energy crisis in 2022, we estimate G2O switching in industrial applications peaked at 24 mcm/d. In this higher TTF scenario we would also expect incremental LNG to be delivered to Europe (competed away from Asia). In addition to further changes to the European weather forecast, key drivers to watch from here include NE Asia weather forecasts and the ramp of the upcoming US liquefaction capacity additions. Venture Global's Plaquemines recently exported its first commissioning cargo, while cargo loadings have remained unchanged so far at Cheniere's Corpus Christi facility, which is undergoing a capacity expansion starting in early 2025. Higher energy prices in the EU, particularly in Germanythe continent's economic powerhouseadd to the continued headwinds crushing the country's all-important automotive industry into a devastating downturn. On the bright side, at least for the US, the EU will be forced to replace Russian LNG with US LNG during the Trump 2.0 era. Dart noted last month that this is "theoretically" possible. By Zerohedge.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com The Biden Administration is set to slap more sanctions on Russias oil exports by targeting tankers hauling Russian crude and products, sources familiar with the outgoing administrations plans have told Reuters. It is going to be a big package, one of Reuterss sources said. The current Administration plans to target vessels that carry Russian oil above the $60 per barrel price cap that Western allies have imposed on Russian crude and petroleum products. The scope of the upcoming sanctions is expected to include persons involved in networks that trade Russias oil above the G7 price cap, according to the sources. The price cap mechanism set by the G7 and the EU says that Russian crude shipments to third countries can use Western insurance and financing if cargoes are sold at or below the $60-a-barrel ceiling. The measure took effect at the end of 2022 when the EU imposed an embargo on imports of Russian crude oil. The Biden Administration is looking to stifle Russias oil revenues and support Ukraine more ahead of the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who has said that the U.S. cost of supporting Ukraine is too high. The new U.S. sanctions would add to the already tightened measures against Russian oil exports that the UK and the European Union have recently announced. European countries have been ramping up sanctions pressure on Russia as they look to reduce Vladimir Putins oil revenues that fund the war in Ukraine. The UK and the European Union announced in the middle of December a raft of new sanctions that target Russias shadow fleet of tankers enabling oil trade. The UK went further, sanctioning two trading firms, which it described as key lynchpins in enabling the trading of Putins precious oil. The UKs latest sanctions came a day after the EU adopted the 15th package of sanctions against Russia, which targets 52 new vessels from Russias shadow fleet, increasing the total number of such listings to 79. These non-EU vessels are subject to a port access ban and a ban on the provision of services. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com The Biden Administration on Monday put more than 625 million acres of the U.S. coastal areas off limits for offshore drilling in a move that incoming President Donald Trump may find difficult to reverse. President Joe Biden using his authority under Section 12(a) of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act is issuing two Presidential Memoranda to protect all U.S. Outer Continental Shelf areas off the East and West coasts, the eastern Gulf of Mexico, and additional portions of the Northern Bering Sea in Alaska from future oil and natural gas leasing. The withdrawals of all these areas from federal offshore oil and gas leases have no expiration date. They also prohibit all future oil and natural gas leasing in the areas withdrawn, the White House said. The areas off limits to drilling are the entire eastern U.S. Atlantic coast and the Eastern Gulf of Mexico, the Pacific Coast along California, Oregon, and Washington, and the remaining portion of the Northern Bering Sea Climate Resilience Area in Alaska. In a statement, President Biden commented, My decision reflects what coastal communities, businesses, and beachgoers have known for a long time: that drilling off these coasts could cause irreversible damage to places we hold dear and is unnecessary to meet our nations energy needs. Biden also invoked the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, calling it a solemn reminder of the costs and risks of offshore drilling to the health and resilience of our coasts and fisheries and underscores the importance of the legal protections I am putting in place today. The American Petroleum Institute (API) slammed Bidens decision as yet another politically motivated move of the outgoing administration. American voters sent a clear message in support of domestic energy development, and yet the current administration is using its final days in office to cement a record of doing everything possible to restrict it, API President and CEO Mike Sommers said. We urge policymakers to use every tool at their disposal to reverse this politically motivated decision and restore a pro-American energy approach to federal leasing, Sommers added. Incoming President Trump, meanwhile, has already made his U.S. energy policy priorities knownsupport for fossil fuels, and repeal of some of President Bidens environmental-oriented measures, including the pause on new LNG permitting and the minimum possible offshore oil and gas lease sales mandated by Congress. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Canadas Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is considering resigning, an unnamed source close to him told Reuters. Per the report, Trudeau could announce his decision to step down as soon as today, suggesting the decision was already made and the only question was about the timing. Trudeau has faced growing criticism both from the opposition and from his own party, and pollsas well as some recent by-electionshave indicated his Liberals are going to lose badly to the Conservatives at the next election, scheduled for October. The hallmarks of Trudeaus government have been a complete dedication to the energy transition, taking the form of carbon taxes, strict emission reporting standards, and, the latest, a cap on emissions from the oil and gas industry that the industry has slammed as effectively a cap on production. In contrast, the Conservatives, led by Pierre Poilievre, are very much in favor of a strong local energy industry. Earlier this month, Poilievre said he could offer the U.S. president-elect a great deal even as the latter threatens Canada with 25% tariffs. If you look at the history of President Trump, he negotiates very aggressively and he likes to win, but in the end, he doesnt appear to have a problem if his counterparty also wins, Poilievre said, speaking with political commentator Jordan Peterson. And so I think that we can get a great deal that will make both countries safer, richer, and stronger, he added, as quoted by Bloomberg. Poilievre added, however, that Canadian oil producers are currently selling their product to U.S. refiners at a discount but placed the blame on Canadian politics rather than the buyers. Its not the Americans fault, its our fault, were stupid. And were going to stop being stupid when Im prime minister, the Conservative leader said. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Central European gas flows have fully adapted to the end of Russian gas supply via Ukraine, with Germany and Italy making up the shortfall. According to Austrian Grid Management, the country boosted imports from Germany and Italy when flows from Slovakia were halted after Ukraine declined to renew a 5-year gas transit deal with Russia. Slovakia has drawn on a connection with Hungary as its only source of imports so far in the new year after Gazprom stopped supplying Slovensky plynarensky priemysel (SPP) as the Ukraine transit ended. Energy experts had earlier warned that Austria, Hungary and Slovakia are likely to be the hardest hit after imports of Russian gas via Ukraine are cut off. Thankfully, they have managed to secure alternative supplies: last year, Azerbaijans state oil company, SOCAR, started supplying natural gas to Slovakias SPP, the countrys largest state-owned energy operator. This came just a month after SPP signed a short-term pilot contract to buy natural gas from Azerbaijan as it prepared for a possible halt to Russian supplies via Ukraine. SPP has pledged to supply its customers mainly via pipelines from Germany and also Hungary, albeit at additional transit costs. Meanwhile, the United States is likely to emerge as the biggest winner of the unfolding situation in Europeif recent developments are any indication. Norway and the U.S. have replaced Russia as Europes biggest gas supplier: last year, Norway supplied 87.8 bcm (billion cubic meters) of gas to Europe, good for 30.3% of total imports while the U.S. supplied 56.2 bcm, accounting for 19.4% of total. However, the U.S. is the biggest LNG supplier to Europe: last year, the U.S. accounted for nearly half of total LNG imports by the continent, marking the third consecutive year in which the United States supplied more LNG to Europe than any other country. The U.S. supplied 27%, or 2.4 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d), of total European LNG imports in 2021; 44% (6.5 Bcf/d) in 2022; and 48% (7.1 Bcf/d) in 2023. Meanwhile, Europes capacity to accept LNG is increasing. Europes LNG import, or regasification, capacity was on track to expand to 29.3 Bcf/d in 2024, a 33% increase compared with 2021. Germany is adding the most LNG regasification capacity in Europe, with developers in the country having added 1.8 Bcf/d in 2023 and on track to add another 1.6 Bcf/d in 2024. By Alex Kimani for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Richer people should pay more for the European transition to green energy, in a kind of solidarity system to share the burden, according to Frans Timmermans, the former European Commission vice president and one of the architects of the EU Green Deal. The European Green Deal is a key pillar of the EUs ambition to become carbon neutral by 2050 and aims in an interim target of the bloc to have at least 55% less net greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, compared to 1990 levels. EU governments have recently seen a growing backlash against many of the green energy initiatives including new heating systems and targets to boost electric vehicle (EV) sales. Unless the measures in the energy transition are backed by a system of solidarity in which the rich pay more, EU voters will reject the green policies, Timmermans told the Financial Times. The [ecological] transition will be stopped by European voters, said Timmermans, the former European Commissioner for the Green Deal, who is now leader of the Dutch Green/Labour alliance. Wealthier people were early adopters of clean energy technologies, while the poorer were left behind. The rich havent changed their habits to reduce their carbon footprint, but the poor didnt have a choice and were reducing their carbon footprints out of bitter necessity instead of because they have embraced the idea, Timmermans told FT. Bruegel, a Brussels-based European think tank that specializes in economics, has recently estimated what the EU needs to get to its stated goals of net zero and how much it would cost. It appears that, for these goals to be hit, the bloc would need to spend 1.3 trillion euros, or about $1.4 trillion, every year until 2030. After that, the price for the transition jumps to 1.54 trillion euros ($1.59 trillion) annually and stays this much until 2050. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Crude oil prices extended their gains from the first week of the year into this week, fueled by frigid weather and hopes that the latest round of stimulus announced by the Chinese government would do the trick and revive past rates of oil demand growth. Brent crude was trading at $76.30 per barrel at the time of writing, and West Texas Intermediate was changing hands for $73.77 per barrel, both making solid gains over the past week. The latest stimulus update from Beijing came last Friday, when the government said it would boost the issuance of so-called ultra-long special government bonds, to fund large-scale equipment upgrades and stimulate consumer spending. The size of ultra-long special government bond funds will be sharply increased this year to intensify and expand the implementation of the two new initiatives, Yuan Da, deputy secretary-general of the Chinese National Development and Reform Commission said, as quoted by Reuters. The oil market is off to a strong start in 2025 with ICE Brent trading above $76/bbl, ING commodity analysts Warren Patterson and Ewa Manthey wrote in a note earlier today. This is despite the oil balance for 2025 looking comfortable. The strength in the market appears to be on the back of a stronger physical market in the Middle East. The analysts noted expectations that Trump would tighten the sanction noose around Irans neck as soon as he comes into office, which would naturally boost oil prices and possibly motivate OPEC+ to roll back some of its production cuts. In the context of the Trump presidency and Iran sanctions, Goldman Sachs earlier this month predicted Iranian oil production would fall in the second quarter of the year by as much as 300,000 barrels daily. The banks analysts added that prices could peak at $78 per barrel of Brent crude in June. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com The worlds top crude oil exporter, Saudi Arabia, has raised the price of its crude loading for Asia in February by more than expected as supply in the worlds largest-importing region is tightening with the continued OPEC+ cuts and reduced volumes from Iran and Russia. Saudi state oil giant Aramco has raised the price of its flagship crude grade, Arab Light, by $0.60 per barrel to a premium of $1.50 a barrel over the Oman/Dubai average, the benchmark off which Middle Eastern crude going to Asia is priced, a price list seen by Bloomberg showed on Monday. Saudi Arabia typically announces around the fifth of each month its crude pricing for the following month and doesnt comment on price changes. It also sets the tone for the pricing to Asia of the other major oil producers in the Middle East. The hike in Saudi Arabias official selling prices (OSPs) for Asia for next month was more than the $0.10-per-barrel increase expected in an earlier Bloomberg poll of traders and refiners. The price hike comes as the OPEC+ group, led by Saudi Arabia, continues to withhold supply from the market, barrels from Iran and Russia are shrinking amid tightening sanctions on tankers, and Middle East benchmark prices are rallying. In early December, the OPEC+ group decided to delay the start of the easing of the 2.2 million bpd cuts to April 2025, from January 2025. The group also extended the period in which it would unwind all these cuts into the following year, until September 2026. Moreover, the reduced supply of crude from Iran and Russia has prompted a rally in the prices of crude from the Middle East, where some grades have soared in recent weeks to rarely seen premiums over the global benchmark, Brent. The prices of Oman and Dubai crude jumped to a rare premium over Brent in recent weeks, as demand for Middle Eastern oil has increased in China and India, key Iranian and Russian oil buyers, amid lower supply from Iran and Russia. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Following new security arrangements and improved security conditions, Sudan has lifted the 10-month-long force majeure on the pipelines transporting South Sudans oil through Sudan and onto Port Sudan on the Red Sea, Reuters reported on Monday, citing a letter from Sudans Energy Ministry it had seen. In March 2024, Sudan declared force majeure on crude oil exports from its landlocked neighbor South Sudan, following a major rupture in the pipeline carrying crude from South Sudan to the port in Sudan in an area with active military activity. The latest conflict in Sudan erupted in April 2023, when the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group, took up arms against the Sudanese army in the capital Khartoum. Since then, many of South Sudans oilfields have not been able to send their oil north via the pipeline in Sudan and revenues for South Sudan have been plummeting. Now it appears that the security situation in Sudan has improved, to the point of Sudan lifting the force majeure on oil transportation to the Port of Sudan. Sudans Ministry of Energy and Petroleum sent a letter, dated January 4, to South Sudans energy minister, in which Sudan said it was lifting the force majeure, Reuters reports. This was made possible thanks to new security arrangements Sudan has reached with South Sudan and BAPCO, the Sudanese company that runs the pipeline. We are hereby lifting the force majeure, Sudans Minister of Energy and Petroleum, Mohiedienn Naiem Mohamed Saied, wrote in the letter to South Sudans Petroleum Minister, Puot Kang Chol, seen by Reuters. Since the war erupted in Sudan, South Sudans oil exports have plunged. The country is struggling to get any money in its budget as its oil exports, on which it depends for 90% of state revenues, are stalled by the ruptured pipeline in neighboring Sudan that is currently the only outlet for South Sudan to sell its crude. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com One of the top natural gas turbine makers in the world, GE Vernova, sees big opportunities in Taiwan, which is set to phase out nuclear this year and needs more gas-fired generation to power its chip-making industry, GE Vernovas chief executive Scott Strazik told Bloomberg in an interview published on Monday. Taiwan, which has one operational nuclear power reactor, plans to switch it off in the middle of 2025. Taiwans Democratic Progressive Party elected in January 2016, and re-elected in 2020, has a policy of phasing out nuclear power by the end of 2025. Since 2018, Taiwan has shut down four other nuclear reactors and cancelled construction of two others following a referendum in 2021. Now that nuclear power will no longer be an option for fueling Taiwans industry, including its vast chip-making sector, providers of other forms of electricity are vying for slices of the pie. Offshore wind is expensive and not enough energy storage is an issue with this renewable power source. Therefore, gas turbine maker GE Vernova, which was spun off from GE last year, sees Taiwan as its fastest-growing market in Asia, CEO Strazik told Bloomberg. Taiwans nuclear exit is leading to a steeper curve of replacement demand, and gas is the most applicable replacement to nuclear, Strazik said. We have a lot of opportunity in places like Taiwan that see a lot of electricity growth with chip demands in front of it, the executive told Bloomberg. In Asia, GE Vernova is also looking to tap more opportunities in the large Southeast Asian economies Indonesia and Malaysia, where the proliferation of data centers is driving a surge in power demand, Strazik said. The rise of AI technology is fueling a global data center boom, and Asia is no exception. Natural gas, and in Asia's case LNG, could be the big winner in this technology boom as gas-fired power dominates the electricity mix in many of the developed Asian economies, with emerging data center markets preferring gas over coal to power AI due to emissions reduction goals, Wood Mackenzie said in a 2024 report. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com The Inspector General of Police, IGP Mohammed Adamu has ordered the immediate deployment of Commissioner of Police (CP) Ahmed Iliyasu to Kano State Command as CP in charge of the State. CP Iliyasu takes over from CP Waziri Mohammed, who retired from the Force on 26th May, 2019 after 35years of service to the Force and the Nation at large. Details of the deployment is contained in a statement in Abuja on Monday night by the Force Spokesman, DCP Frank Mba. CP Ahmed Iliyasu, who holds a Masters Degree in Business Administration (MBA) from Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma, was until his recent deployment, the Force Provost Marshal, Force Headquarters, Abuja. Read also: Ganduje bans motorcycles in Kano forests He had also held command position as the Commissioner of Police in charge of Ogun State Command from 2016 to January 2019. The Force said he is expected to bring to bear his wide policing and law enforcement experience in managing the complex security challenges in Kano State. The IGP, while wishing the outgoing CP a blissful retirement, enjoined the new CP to up the ante in ensuring effective policing of the State. By Kathryn Hickok What if all parents could choose schools based on where their children learn best, regardless of neighborhood zoning or income level? With school choice, they can. School choice programs allow education funding to follow students to the schools or learning services their families choose. It puts parents, not bureaucracies, in the drivers seat of education, helping families customize schooling to meet students specific needs and circumstances. Educational choice for K-12 students continued to expand in 2024. With new laws passed, 75 programs are on the books in 33 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. According to EdChoice (a nonprofit that promotes educational choice), more than 22 million students are eligible to participate in a private school choice programabout 40% of all students nationwide. More than one million students currently participate in a private school choice program. Each states approach to school choice empowers parents to choose the best options for their children. States can learn valuable lessons from each others policy approaches as they craft programs that suit the needs of their own families and voters. Children are unique, with different talents, interests, and learning styles. A school that works well for one child doesnt necessarily meet the needs of another. Wouldnt it be wonderful if students could go to school where they learn best? Universal school choice is the gift that keeps giving, for todays students and for the future. Kathryn Hickok is Executive Vice President at Cascade Policy Institute, Oregons free market public policy research organization, and Director of Cascades Childrens Scholarship Fund-Oregon program. Did you like this article? Contribute to Oregons premier public policy research organization online at CascadePolicy.org. Donations to Cascade Policy Institute are tax-deductible to the extent of the law. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: CC0 Public Domain The Australian government recently passed legislation that bans social media for anyone under 16. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hailed the legislation for putting "the onus on social media platformsnot young people or their parents"for protecting youth from online harms. Australia is the first country in the world to pass a nationwide ban of social media for teens, set to take effect in a year. But other measures have been enacted or considered here in Canada and elsewhere. In the United States, it will be illegal for children under 14 in Florida to have social media accounts starting Jan. 1, 2025. Beginning in 2024, Quebec began banning cellphones in classrooms. This fall, with the start of the 20242025 academic year, Ontario also began banning cell phones in schools. This follows a lawsuit filed by four school boards in Ontario against social media companies for disrupting youth learning. Quebec is reportedly considering a social media banfollowing Australia's leadthat would limit social media use for teens under 16. Provincial governments recognize that social media and cellphones can be problematic for youth, and they're not waiting on the federal government to take action. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently announced that the proposed Online Harms Act (Bill C-63), originally introduced in February 2024, will be separated into two bills. The idea is to pass the part of the bill focused on child protection to address problems like sextortion, image-based sexual abuse, revenge porn and other forms of online sexual violence. Since the Online Harms Act is still being debated, MPs in Canada may look to other countries, like Australia, for guidance on protecting youth from these online harms. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. Youth and online harms Some people in Canada approve of Australia's social media ban and see it as a potential solution, including some teens. This idea has received a lot of traction in public discourse too, including with the book "The Anxious Generation" that argues social media should be banned until age 16. Many of us may recall the stories of Rehtaeh Parsons, Amanda Todd and more recently a boy in British Columbia who died by suicide after being cyberbullied and sextorted. Some studies have shown that social media use is related to anxiety and depression among adolescents. Bans or regulations raise important questions about how we, as a society, should respond to social media use among youth and deal with online harms. A CBC news report on Australias social media ban and the potential for a similar ban in Canada. Challenges with bans We are a team of researchers who study technology-facilitated sexual violence among youth aged 1318 in Canada. We have conducted 26 focus groups with 149 youth from across the country, and launched a nationally representative survey of around 1,000 youth to learn about their experiences with online harms, what they know about the law and which resources workand which ones don't. Our initial findings show that youth experience a range of harms as they use digital platforms and social media. We also found that algorithms are fueling harms. Youth have emphasized they want tailored supports and resources to help them have safe, healthy and enjoyable experiences with technology. A full ban of social media is not realistic, in part because social media companies have no idea how to implement it. Some ideas are to use facial recognition technology or check someone's age using credit cards. Another idea is to upload government IDs to third-party platforms for age verification. However a ban is implemented, it will almost certainly gather more user data, which raises questions about youth data privacy and security. These measures may also drive youth towards other platforms that are less regulated, such as on the dark web. This could actually make it harder to protect youth from online harms. Bans also don't actually solve the problem. For example, abstinence-based interventions don't work when it comes to sex education. It is unlikely that an abstinence-based approach would work with social media. Furthermore, technology is increasingly integrated into our daily lives, and youth need to be taught about healthy and responsible online interactions. Youth are learning how to become digital citizens. Kicking the problem down the road until they're 16 or older will postpone the consequences, not solve them. This could cause more harm than a ban intends to solve. A ban also frees social media companies, governments and parents from any accountability. Rather than meaningfully addressing the harmful content and their impacts, a ban removes any and all responsibility from the people and institutions whose job it is to protect youth. Holistic interventions Technology companies need to develop their products with kids in mind, rather than prioritizing their profits and putting child safety and health second. Kids need guidance and support, and a ban does nothing to remove harmful content or resolve its negative impacts. Rather than bans, we suggest implementing holistic interventions that emphasize digital citizenship and youth rights and responsibilities so people of all ages learn how to have safe and healthy interactions with technology. This requires a consolidated effort across various sectors of society, including schools, community organizations and, importantly, both tech companies and government agencies. While there are resources available for educators, parents and youth about how to have safe and healthy online interactions, we need to act now. Rather than resorting to blanket bans, we should prioritize comprehensive societal changes that address the root causes of these harms. By doing so, we can promote youth safety and help our communities confront online harms. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Stores of water ice are contained in shadowed craters at the south pole of the moon. Credit: NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center Scientific Visualization Studio Outer space is infinite, but that hasn't stopped humans trying to impose their laws on it. There are more ways for people to travel to space than ever before, and the next few decades are likely to see the US and China sending humans to the moon again. Both countries aim to set up long-term research stations on the lunar surface, a bit like there are now in Antarctica. But could disputes between these two countriesand potentially others, such as Russia or Indiaarise over where to locate bases on the lunar surface? And could the same happen over claims to the moon's resources, such as the water ice located in craters at the lunar poles? Countries will want to extract this ice because it can be turned into rocket fuel for onward journeys and for life support at their lunar bases. Indeed, the prospect of "space water wars" is actually nearer, timewise, than the prospect of providing clean drinking water to everyone in the developing world. But the legal arguments around rights to space water and other resources are complex. Laws are also in place to ensure countries don't pollute bodies such as the moon while they are exploring them. The basic tenets of international space law are laid out in ten treaties and "soft law" agreements between multiple countries. For example, the Outer Space Treaty (1967) says that space should be "free for exploration and use by all states," and is "not subject to national appropriation by claim of sovereignty." This suggests countries could be on shaky ground if they try to establish national bases on the moon to extract water ice, as all other countries are equally entitled to explore and use that "territory." This treaty's stipulation that nations are free to "explore and use outer space and celestial bodies" means anyone can extract lunar resources and use them while in space. However, there's a potential contradiction with another part of the treaty, which allows countries to retain jurisdiction over objects they put into spacepotentially implying that bases on the moon would remain under the jurisdiction of the country that has put them there. If so, explorers from other nations might be restricted from exploring where this interferes with the jurisdiction of these bases. The moon Agreement, which was created in 1979 and has 17 parties including France, Australia and India, goes a bit further on resources, stating that "neither the surface nor the subsurface of the moon, nor any part thereof or natural resources in place, shall become property of any state." However, major spacefaring nations such as the US, Russia and China never signed this agreement. The US has drawn up its own agreement, known as the Artemis Accords (originally signed into being in 2020), which tries to establish ground rules over the use of lunar resources such as ice. While emerging spacefaring nations including India are signatories, important space powers such as China and Russia are not. There's also a difference between extracting space resources such as lunar ice, which are needed for further exploration, and taking resources from space and bringing them back to Earth purely because they are financially valuable. The latter question affects the burgeoning field of asteroid mining. A number of companies, mainly in the US and Luxembourg, have outlined plans to travel to asteroids (the leftover rocks from the birth of the solar system) and extract valuable minerals and metals, which would then be delivered back to Earth. However, it is debatable whether the repatriation of resources is allowed under the Outer Space Treaty. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. Endless responsibility? Under both the Outer Space Treaty and the UN's Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects (1972), nations are liable for any destruction caused by their space hardware, and are obliged to avoid harmful contamination of space and celestial bodies. This will apply to countries that aim to extract resources on the moon and other nearby bodies, such as Mars. But what happens when spacecraft leave our solar system and head to the far-off reaches of our cosmic neighborhood? Can states still be held responsible for pollution or damage so far from Earth? The Voyager 1 and 2 probes, launched by Nasa in 1977, have already left the solar system, and others are on trajectories that will eventually take them out of it. In the treaties it is party to, such as the Outer Space Treaty and the Liability Convention, the US appears to have agreed to continue lawful space operations endlessly into the infinity of space. This implies that, from the design stage, scientists should configure their spacecraft and instruments in such a way that, even when not within the control of humans on Earth, they do not pollute outer space. For example, some spacecraft use radioactive materials as power sources. The careless spread of radioactive materials would be a violation of international space law, especially where the presence of such dangerous materials is not reported to the UN bodies that oversee such matters. Under the moon Agreement, there is an obligation to notify the UN before any placement of radioactive materials on the moon, and of their purpose. But in the even that contact with a spacecraft is lost, should countries be held to their liability obligations into the infinity of space? Space operations are fast expanding into deeper reaches of outer space. Pioneers 10 and 11, launched in the 1970s by Nasa, are on trajectories that will eventually take them out of the solar systempotentially within the next few decades. Nasa's New Horizons spacecraft passed Pluto in 2014 and is currently traveling through a distant region called the Kuiper Belt. One answer to these legal questions is that human laws ought to logically end wherever our ability to conceptualize and carry out space operations ends. There are, for example, some good reasons to limit space law to our solar systembecause it may be impractical for states to exert control over them once they travel further, whether or not they could cause damage or pollution to more distant celestial bodies. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Experimental Design. Credit: The Effects of Digital Surveillance and Managerial Clarity on Performance (2025) A new study from the University of California San Diego and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology examines digital worker surveillancespecifically, the use of software to monitor remote workers' activitiesand tests how effective they are in improving worker performance. The results reveal that simply applying surveillance is not enough to improve productivity. Instead, productivity is best enhanced when workers are engaged with their human managers and understand the reasons behind managerial decision-making. These findings may explain why the corporate offices of companies such as Amazon and Starbucks, as well as Disney, JP Morgan and others, have issued mandates forcing employees back to the office five days a week, according to the authors of the working paper, which is forthcoming in the National Bureau of Economic Research. "A lot of organizations adopted new digital tools to manage remote workfor example, digital monitoring tools and new communication platforms, but in the absence of complementary management practices, these tools do not necessarily support remote work success," said Elizabeth Lyons, associate professor of management at the UC San Diego School of Global Policy and Strategy and co-author of the study. "Our results suggest the money spent on these digital tools may not have been money well spent, and that might be one of the reasons so many firms are saying that 'in the longer run, remote work hasn't really worked out.'" She added, "Investing in managerial capital is probably a better use of resources than investing in monitoring technology." Lyons and co-author Namrata Kala of the MIT Sloan School of Management tested how effective digital monitoring is by a randomized control trial with 434 remote workers on Upwork who were under digital surveillance to monitor productivity. They were able to identify remote workers with relatively high productivity and relatively low productivity and then randomly assigned both types into three groups. A third of low-performing workers were told their work output was not as good as managers had hoped and that to improve their performance, they would need to continue to use a digital surveillance tool. Another group was told they needed to improve their performance but were permitted to turn off their digital monitoring tool. The third group was told they needed to improve their performance and to keep using the digital surveillance tool. To assess the efficacy of the monitoring tools when workers may see it as an unproductive invasion of privacy, these statements were not connected; therefore, the continuation of digital surveillance was not justified based on performance. Among high-performing workers, one group was told they performed well and as a result, they didn't have to work with the surveillance tool on anymore. Another third were told their performance was good, but they had to keep using the surveillance tool. The third group was told they performed well and that they could work unsurveilled, but the workers' positive performance was not used to explain the removal of digital surveillance. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. Both the removal and continuation of digital monitoring reduced performance when not explained The low-performing workers who were told to continue to use the digital surveillance tools without an explanation decreased their productivity significantly (around 17%) compared to workers allowed to opt out of surveillance. High-productivity workers who were allowed to remove their surveillance without an explanation also showed a major drop in performance (17%) compared to those who remained under surveillance. "These results reveal that simply applying surveillance is not enough to improve productivity," Lyons said. "They also suggest that managers need to provide a clear justification for requiring or not requiring their staff to use surveillance if they want it to enhance productivity." Lyons added that independent of the actual monitoring activity, the clarity seemed to be what mattered in the reduction in performance. "Even within a single job and workforce where everyone is completing the same tasks, both the removal and the continuation of digital monitoring can harm performance if it's not explained," Lyons said. "The results emphasize that workers want to understand manager decision-making, which is why engaged management is so important." The results echo previous findings from Lyons that show when remote workers communicate regularly with their managers, their productivity is enhanced. The working paper also found that among high-performing workers, getting to work without a digital monitoring tool was not perceived as a reward. The workers did not indicate having increased job satisfaction; instead, they reported a desire to be compensated more. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Africa's small-scale farmers make up nearly 80% of all farms in the agriculture sector. In South Africa, there are about 2 million small-scale farmers, predominantly Black and based in the eastern summer rainfall region of the country. A small-scale farmer produces food for their family on land that is generally smaller than five hectares. Small-scale farmers sell their excess produce but have limited access to resources, technology and big markets. Africa's small-scale farming sector is hit hard when there's a drought because these farmers rely on rainwater. South Africa has been affected by major drought episodes over the years. However, 2015 stands out as the driest period on record since 1904, with drought affecting 2.7 million households, including small-scale farmers. As droughts induced by climate change increase, South Africa's small-scale farmers need to adapt to the changed farming environment so that they can continue to produce food. Our research investigated how small-scale farmers, particularly women, were using Indigenous knowledge systems to adapt to drought. Indigenous knowledge systems are collections of wisdom developed over many generations by people who live closely with nature. They include ways of organizing and classifying the world, practical observations about the local environment, and methods for managing resources responsibly. The terms indigenous knowledge and indigenous knowledge systems are used interchangeably. We studied small-scale farmers in the Umkhanyakude District Municipality of South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal province. This is one of the most impoverished areas in the province, with an unemployment rate of 37.7%: 4.2 percentage points higher than the rest of the country. Nearly all (95%) of the 690,000 people in the district live rurally, relying on social security grants, remittances from family members working elsewhere and small-scale agriculture to survive. The Umkhanyakude District Municipality is also managed collectively by 18 traditional authorities under the Ingonyama Trust Board, a contentious organization that has been criticized for keeping male domination of the land alive and infringing on women's land rights. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. As geographers who research climate change adaptation and Indigenous knowledge systems, we asked 384 small-scale farmers (61% of them women) to tell us how they were adapting to drought. We found that farming practices based on Indigenous knowledge had built this community's resilience to drought, especially when led by women. Water harvesting, soil regeneration and pest control were some of the practices. However, these practices are often overlooked in mainstream climate adaptation policies and interventions, which are driven by mostly non-indigenous stakeholders, based on western technical and legal solutions. Indigenous knowledge was not valued by colonisers during colonial times, a practice that persists in the patriarchal and capitalist systems that currently operate in our world. Our research found that integrating Indigenous knowledge systems into formal climate adaptation frameworks will help small-scale farmers adapt to global warming and extreme weather. This could lead to sustainable ways of creating long term food security and gender equity. The devastating impact of drought The women small-scale farmers we interviewed reflected on the droughts they had experienced over the past 39 years (between 1983 and 2022): The smell of decaying livestock tainted the atmosphere. Moreover, salt began to crystallize in the river. We used this salt both for cooking and sold some it. Droughts meant that it was a struggle to grow enough to feed their families and there was nothing to sell: I lost three hectares of maize, nothing was growing, and even our livestock were perishing. Normally, we do not need to purchase feed for our livestock, but we had to. Even the hand-dug wells dried up, and some farmers had to stop farming altogether: We had no food. While goats managed to survive by relying on trees for sustenance, our cattle were not as fortunate and died. How farmers adapted Various practices helped them survive: Finding different supplies of water: The farmers found ways to harvest rainwater. Collectively, they excavated hand dug communal wells and stored as much water as possible. They recycled the water they used at home and if they could afford it, drilled boreholes. Conserving the moisture in the soil: This included hand plowing, fallowing and tree planting. Women farmers used more organic waste on the soilsuch as mulch and manure from cattle, chickens and goats, and crop residues. They also placed perforated plastic, used diapers and cardboard on the soil to retain soil moisture. Planting different crops that can survive drought: Sweet potatoes, spinach, onions, taro, sugarcane and cotton were planted instead of water-intensive crops like cabbage, onion and tomatoes. Homemade ways of getting rid of pests: The women farmers used wood ash, flour and homemade plant concoctions as well as the Tirucalia tirucalli tree (pencil cactus), which repels moles. They also manually removed caterpillars and applied water mixed with menstrual blood on vegetables to repel pests. How women farmers carry the burden of climate change Our research found that female-headed and low-income households paid the price for the changing climate. For example, small-scale farmers had to look for other work. But female-headed and low-income households had few options for other work and women couldn't leave home. They often had to do risky jobs like selling unlicensed alcohol, marijuana and fuel. During the droughts, women farmers also had an increased workload from needing to carry water from wells in buckets to water the crops. Male small-scale farmers were less restricted by domestic duties. They had more time and space to find other work during the drought, our research found. Women small-scale farmers have inadequate access to formal markets, financial services and formal employment. Indigenous knowledge systems must be recognized Indigenous knowledge draws on knowledge that has been built up over hundreds of years about actions that are useful in a specific local area. It is therefore very useful for communities who have to adapt to a changing climate. On the other hand, government climate adaptation plans, such as drought relief schemes, are often rolled out without understanding of the local knowledge or social identities in a specific area. This needs to change if small-scale farmers must cope with more intense and more frequent droughts. The government, climate financiers and aid institutions must also move away from gender-neutral policies that maintain the status quo and impose additional burdens on women. We call for the unsilencing, legitimization and integration of Indigenous knowledge systems in both informal and formal adaptation programs. This will empower small-scale farmers to preserve and transfer Indigenous knowledge and promote resilient agricultural practices. It will disrupt entrenched power dynamics and empower women farmers. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: A woman walks her dog near the US Capitol as snow falls during a winter storm in Washington on January 6, 2025. A deadly storm system dumped heavy snow and freezing rain across the eastern United States on Monday, killing five people and disrupting travel for millions of Americans from the central plains to the capital Washington. Some 350,000 people were without power across nine states, while more than 1,800 flights were cancelled and thousands more delayed, according to tracking websites Poweroutage.us and FlightAware. The National Weather Service (NWS) predicted up to a foot of snow in Washington, where Congress was set to forge ahead with the certification of Donald Trump's election victory, four years to the day after his supporters stormed the US Capitol to try to overturn his 2020 loss. House Speaker Mike Johnson has called for "full attendance" at Congress regardless of the weather. The capital's brightly-colored row houses and normally leafy streets were blanketed with white on Monday as residents waded through the snow and schools were closed in a city which only rarely has to face such wintry conditions. The storm tracked eastward after bringing blizzard conditions to states including Kansas and Missouri. Lethal conditions At least five people have been killed so far in storm related incidents. The Missouri State Highway Patrol recorded one fatality, when a truck slid into a pedestrian on snowy roads, while two were killed in a vehicle crash in in Kansas, US media reported. Both incidents took place Sunday. A fierce winter storm socked Washington and several other cities across the eastern half of the United States on January 6, 2025, bringing treacherous conditions including ice-covered roads. "Snow has transitioned to ice... bringing power outages and more hazardous road conditions. Transportation crews are working hard to clear roads for utility crews and emergency travel," warned Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, calling for residents to stay home. Video clips showed cars skidding off ice-coated highways and tractor trailers jack-knifing in Kansas. A White House spokesman said President Joe Biden was closely monitoring the severe weather and was ready to support affected states. The NWS warned thunderstorms could also impact southeastern states, bringing hail and tornadoes, and that accumulations of thick iceas well as widespread tree damage from powerful wind gustscould lead to prolonged power outages. Temperatures are expected to plunge, in some places to below zero degrees Fahrenheit (minus 18 degrees Celsius), while strong wind gusts compound the dangers. The mercury could sink tens of degrees below seasonal norms on the US Gulf Coast. Another major concern is freezing rain and sleet. Ice will make travel hazardous, bring down trees and topple electricity lines, authorities warned. Cars are covered in snow during a winter storm in a residential area of Washington, DC, early on January 6, 2025. Conditions could prove especially perilous in the Appalachian mountain region, where a deadly hurricane in late September devastated communities and ravaged multiple southeastern states including Kentucky. The governors of Kentucky, Missouri, Virginia and Maryland have declared a state of emergency in their states, and have taken to social media to warn residents to stay home. 2025 AFP This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Simulating motion in a flock of birds. Credit: The European Physical Journal E (2024). DOI: 10.1140/epje/s10189-024-00455-2 Phase transitions in the collective motions of self-propelled particles are directly impacted both by the initial velocity of each particle, and the repulsive radius surrounding them. Collective motions of self-propelled particles can be found across many systems in nature. One of the most striking features of this phenomenon is the way in which systems transition between different states of motion: a behavior which can be compared directly with phase transitions in physics. So far, however, it is still not fully understood how these transitions are impacted by the initial parameters of these deeply complex systems. Through analysis published in The European Physical Journal E, Salma Moushi and colleagues at the University of Hassam II, Morocco, show how the conditions required for transitions to occur are heavily dependent on the initial velocities of each particle, and the repulsion radius surrounding them. The team's insights could lead to a deeper understanding of motion in a diverse array of natural systems, including the behavior of bacteria, the dynamics of large groups of fish, birds, and insects, and even the movements of people within large crowds. For a system of self-propelled particles to transition into an ordered phase, it first needs to satisfy two key conditions: it must have a sufficiently high density, and be below a certain critical noise. Once these conditions are met, coherent, large-scale structures can emerge, where many particles move in the same direction. However, Moushi's team predict that both of these properties are heavily dependent on two further factors: the initial velocity of each particle, and the radius surrounding them where particles will repel their neighbors to avoid collisions. To investigate the impact of these factors, the researchers studied simulated phase transitions using the 'classical Vicsek model,' which is often used to study the collective behaviors of self-propelled particles. As they predicted, Moushi's team concluded that density and critical noise were both directly dependent on the particles' initial velocity and repulsion radius. Due to their dependence on both of these factors, this ultimately means that the nature of phase transitions can vary widely, depending on the starting conditions of individual particles. More information: I. Tarras et al, Effect of repulsive interaction and initial velocity on collective motion process, The European Physical Journal E (2024). DOI: 10.1140/epje/s10189-024-00455-2 Journal information: European Physical Journal E Provided by SciencePOD This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: CC0 Public Domain The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has finalized a plan that could lead to the expansion of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. The plan approved by the FWSwhich manages the 407,000-acre refugeadds 22,000 acres to the Okefenokee's "acquisition boundary." That includes the creation of a 1-mile "fuel reduction zone" encircling the swamp to prevent the wildfires that occur in the swamp from engulfing the commercial timberlands surrounding it. The new acquisition boundary does not immediately add land to the refuge, but would allow the agency to negotiate with nearby landowners over buying their properties or implementing other conservation measures. The decision comes as an Alabama-based company waits for Georgia regulators to decide whether it can mine for titanium near the refuge, which is the largest intact blackwater swamp in North America and home to many threatened species. The company, Twin Pines Minerals, says its mine won't harm the swamp, but many independent scientists disagree, and thousands of Georgians have spoken out against the plan at public hearings and at the state Capitol. In addition to pursuing expansion, the federal government announced last month that it would nominate the Okefenokee refuge as a United Nations' World Heritage site. Expanding the boundary of the refuge could help protect the hydrological integrity of the swamp, provide habitat for the gopher tortoise, mitigate impacts of wildfires and provide opportunities for longleaf pine restoration to benefit the red-cockaded woodpecker, the FWS said. The additional acreage under consideration includes land near the swamp's southeast corner owned by Twin Pines. The company wants to mine for titanium sands on a 600-acre portion of Trail Ridge, a line of mineral-rich dunes that run along the swamp's eastern edge. Even with an expansion, tens of thousands of acres of Trail Ridge are still privately owned and could, in theory, draw interest from other miners. Some members of the public and conservationists had urged the government to try to acquire an even larger swath. Over the years, earlier bids by large corporations to mine near the swamp have been stopped. Josh Marks, president of advocacy group Georgians for the Okefenokee, called the boundary expansion "a critical development in the drive to protect the Okefenokee Swamp from mining." "The expansion of the ONWR's acquisition boundary, including the TPM property, is a critical development in the drive to protect the Okefenokee Swamp from mining. As someone who fought DuPont's massive strip-mining proposal in the 1990s and helped add part of the DuPont property to the refuge, I know firsthand the vital role that land acquisition has and must play in safeguarding this world-class resource." Marks urged Gov. Brian Kemp to deny permits for Twin Pines. Kemp's office has consistently referred comment to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division, which is weighing the company's permits. 2025 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: A whitebark pine subfossil revealed beneath a melting ice patch in the Yellowstone region indicates that a mature forest grew above current tree line about 6,000 years ago, when the temperatures were similar to 20th century conditions and cooler than present. Credit: Daniel Stahle Montana State University scientists say the frozen remnants of an ancient forest discovered 600 feet above the modern tree line on the Beartooth Plateau may portend possible changes for the alpine ecosystem if the climate continues to warm. A paper about the discovery is published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. It describes what scientists have learned by studying the remains of a mature whitebark pine forest that formed at 10,000 feet elevation about 6,000 years ago, when warm-season temperatures in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem were similar to those of the mid-to-late 20th century. The forest thrived for centuries until the climate began to cool about 5,500 years ago due to declines in summer solar radiation, the researchers found. The cooler temperatures shifted the tree line downslope and transformed the high mountain landscape from forest to the alpine tundra that exists today. One of the paper's authors, David McWethy, associate professor in the Department of Earth Sciences in MSU's College of Letters and Science, said that subsequent volcanic activity in the Northern Hemisphere caused the region's already cooling temperatures to plunge. The pine forest was encased quickly in ice, where it remained preserved until the ice patch began to thaw in recent years. McWethy said its discovery yielded the first evidence from an alpine area of the ecosystem to indicate that mature forests had established upslope when temperatures were warmer. "This is pretty dramatic evidence of ecosystem change due to temperature warming," he said. "It's an amazing story of how dynamic these systems are." The paper states that ice patches, unlike glaciers, do not flow. Until recently, the authors wrote, the ice patches slowly and nearly continuously accumulated ice, "allowing preservation of deposited materials such as pollen, charcoal and macrofossils within their frozen layers." McWethy said the idea to explore Beartooth ice patches for at least 10,000 years of clues about past climate and environmental conditions grew out of work by Craig Lee, now an assistant professor in MSU's Department of Sociology and Anthropology. In 2007, Lee recovered a portion of a 10,300-year-old atlatl from an ice patch on the plateau, alerting scientists that several millennia worth of cultural materials and environmental data was preserved in nearby layers of ice. "Most of our best long-term climate records come from Greenland and Antarctica. It's not a small thing to find ice patches that persisted for that long a time period at lower latitudes in the interior continent," McWethy said. The ice patches on the plateau measure hundreds of square meters in size, which is fairly small compared to persistent ice masses elsewhere. In 2016, Lee, McWethy and Greg Pederson, paleoclimatologist for the U.S. Geological Survey's Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center and lead author of the just-published paper, began to gather information about environmental change and past human activity from ice patches on the plateau. In 2018, they and others began studying additional alpine ice patches in the area to reconstruct the ecosystem's long-term climate history and its influence on Indigenous North Americans. McWethy said this work has involved a broad collaboration among tribes, federal agencies, archaeologists and scientists at several universities. The tree line study covers one aspect of the work. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. The scientists explain that it was necessary to study multiple elements of the ancient ecosystem to piece together the frozen forest's complete story. Members of the team, including MSU graduate and undergraduate students, analyzed layers of water isotopes and organic materials in ice cores taken from the patch, and Pederson harvested cross-sections of wood from the ancient trees for radiocarbon dating. Pederson noted that the work proved that tree lines on the plateau shifted upward in response to regional warming and that the pine forest thrived for 500 years while climate conditions remained moderate and moist. "The plateau seems to have been the perfect place to allow for ice patches to establish and persist for thousands of years, recording important information on past climate, human activity and environmental change," Pederson said. The results of the study suggest current climate conditions could lead to trees moving upslope into areas of the plateau that are now tundra. Pederson stressed, however, that even though the results of the study are site-specific, there are strong connections to climate controls on tree line elevations globally. "Growing season temperatures are the primary control on tree line elevation and latitude," Pederson said. "However, at individual tree line locations, other factors such as moisture, wind, snowpack and human disturbance may play an important role in dictating forest structure and elevational limits." For those reasons, it's impossible to predict exactly what future tree line forests on the Beartooth Plateau will look like in terms of density, distribution or tree species composition, which will vary depending on how much warming occurs, according to McWethy and Pederson. The tree line will likely rise as the climate warms, they say, but precipitation levels will determine the structure and extent of new forest. Changes will have significant implications for the future ecosystem, say the study authors, including climate expert and MSU Regents Professor Emerita Cathy Whitlock, who has worked in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem for 40 years. She and Pederson said less high-elevation snowpack would affect downstream water supplies for irrigation and electricity generation. McWethy added that if forests begin to establish in tundra, fuel conditions could change dramatically, potentially increasing the risk of wildfires. "That's the reason why studies of past ecological change are more than interesting pieces of science," Pederson said. "They have much larger implications for the resources we all depend on." More information: Gregory T. Pederson et al, Dynamic treeline and cryosphere response to pronounced mid-Holocene climatic variability in the US Rocky Mountains, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2024). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2412162121 Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Workflow to quantify the extent (km2) and spatial distribution of developed land relative to high-risk flood areas and across multiple scales. Credit: PLOS ONE (2024). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0311718 Common methods of communicating flood risk may create a false sense of security, leading to increased development in areas threatened by flooding. This phenomenon, called the "safe development paradox," is described in a new paper from North Carolina State University. Lead author Georgina Sanchez, a research scholar in NC State's Center for Geospatial Analytics, said this may be an unintended byproduct of how the Federal Emergency Management Agency classifies areas based on their probability of dangerous flooding. The findings are published in the journal PLOS ONE. Known as flood mapping, this classification system describes areas in terms of their likelihood of being flooded each year. These classifications are then used to determine all kinds of regulatory requirements, such as whether a developer or homeowner must purchase flood insurance. For example, an area with a 1% chance of flooding in any given year would be referred to as a 100-year floodplainand anything in the 100-year floodplain is designated "high risk." However, by designating the 100-year floodplain as "high risk," regulators may unintentionally give the mistaken assumption that anything outside that zone carries no risk, Sanchez said. "What our current methods do is draw a line between the 100-year floodplain, which is considered 'high risk,' and everything outside of it. We communicate flood risk in a way that says you are either on the 'at risk' side of that line, or the 'minimal risk' side," Sanchez said. "If you are on the 'safe' side, then you are not required to purchase flood insurance or meet strict structural requirements. It then becomes more affordable to live just outside the floodplain, where the perceived risk is lower, yet you are still close to the beautiful lakes, rivers and coastlines we love." This, Sanchez said, creates a mechanism that clusters development just beyond the highest-risk flood areas, even though in reality the risk extends beyond the floodplain's edge. Previous research on the safe development paradox has focused on the "levee effect," in which the creation of flood-prevention structures gives the false impression that an area is safe from flooding and thus attracts increased development. This in turn leads to concentrated losses if a flood event exceeds what the flood-prevention structure was designed to withstand. In focusing on regulatory floodplain mapping instead of these structures, Sanchez and her collaborators uncovered another example of the paradox, where efforts to reduce flood risk paradoxically intensify it by promoting development immediately outside of designated "high-risk" zones. By overlaying floodplain maps from over 2,300 counties with data on prior development trends and simulated future development, researchers found evidence for the safe development paradox from the national level down to the county level. The study found that as much as 24% of all development nationwide occurs within 250 meters of a 100-year floodplain, and projections indicate that this number will continue to grow through at least the year 2060 without new policies to prevent flood exposure. While the study concluded in 2019, these findings are apparent in the recent destruction caused by Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina, Sanchez said. "Because of the steep topography in places like western North Carolina, there is an even greater concentration of development compared to flatter areas," she said. "Developers tend to seek land that is flat enough to build on, which often happens to be along stream networks and closer to flood-prone areas. "When I saw the news after Helene and looked at the images from the region, I could painfully see the findings of our study reflected in those scenes." More information: Georgina M. Sanchez et al, The safe development paradox of the United States regulatory floodplain, PLOS ONE (2024). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0311718 Journal information: PLoS ONE This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Norma Mortenson from Pexels City dwellers avoid exposure to extremely hot weather events by 'ordering in' from food delivery services, a new study shows. The behavior, observed mostly among female, high-income, and older groups, forms part of an emerging heat adaptation strategy by urban residents, according to the international team of researchers. Their study highlights the opportunities for mitigating exposure to high temperatures caused by climate change with food delivery services, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, those with a low-income, and people with limited mobility. However, the benefits of the reduced heat exposure are not equally distributed across different populations, the researchers warn. Their findings, titled published in Nature Cities, instead reveal increased exposure being transferred to delivery workers from consumers, highlighting a growing need for occupational health insurance in the context of climate change. Author Dr. Daoping Wang, a lecturer in the Department of Geography at King's College London, said, "Rising heat events caused by climate change are becoming more frequent, bringing with them real threats to people's health. And, as a result, in cities, we are seeing these kinds of weather events imposing limits on residents' outdoor activities." The team identified an increase in reliance on food delivery services during hot days, where temperatures exceeded 30C by analyzing extensive food delivery records from 100 Chinese cities between 20172023. Their analysis revealed significant variations in the response to heat across demographic groups with stronger adaptation observed in females, high-income, and older residents. Heterogeneous response to heat stress of users over different demographic groups. Credit: Nature Cities (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s44284-024-00172-z Dr. Wang added, "With emerging food delivery services serving more than 500 million people in China, these provide a way for people to 'order in' their food to avoid exposure to the elements. "Until now though, the effects on both consumers and delivery workers remain unknown, primarily hindered by the limited data availability. Our unique dataset developed in collaboration with the largest food delivery platform in China helps fill this gap." The research provides unprecedented nationwide empirical evidence of food delivery as a heat adaptation strategy, highlighting demographic disparities in its benefits and the social justice concerns related to delivery workers' exposure to heat. Co-author Dr. Pan He, a lecturer at Cardiff University's School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, added, "Our study quantifies the benefits of ordering in, showing that residents can avoid an average of 3.6 hours annually of walking in extreme heat, where conditions exceed 35C, by using food delivery. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. "However, these benefits are unevenly distributed, and a substantial portion of the heat exposure risk is transferred to delivery workers, highlighting significant social inequality in these practices. "As extreme weather events increase under climate change, our study offers crucial evidence that food delivery services can help mitigate heat exposure, particularly among vulnerable groups." "In order to fully realize these benefits, policymakers must consider measures to encourage equitable access to services and, at the same time, implement protections for delivery workers," conclude Yunke Zhang and Yong Li, team members from Tsinghua University. The researchers now plan to assess the environmental impact of food delivery, including plastic waste and emissions, and investigate more equitable solutions for protecting delivery workers, including heat subsidies and technological innovations like unstaffed deliveries. More information: Yunke Zhang et al, Urban food delivery services as extreme heat adaptation, Nature Cities (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s44284-024-00172-z Journal information: Nature Cities This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain When Brendan Nerney wakes up, it's not the sound of his alarm clock he dreads, but the dull buzzes from bug zappers strung throughout his Chester County home. Nerney purchased the home in 2023, thinking its location in the heart of the nation's mushroom capital would offer an idyllic setting and a sense of peace. But Nerney and his wife's home is now one of the latest in the area to be invaded by thousands of phorid flies, which thrive in the soil of the mushroom farms near his property. The invasion is part of a trend that has gotten worse for residents near Kennett Square, Avondale, and Toughkenamon in recent years, as neighbors complain on social media and in town halls that the phorid fly population was markedly more noticeable in 2024. Meanwhile, the insects are causing headaches for members of the $1.1 billion mushroom industry, as growers report millions in damage from phorid flies in the facilities that supply more than half of the nation's mushroom crop. Even the insect researchers backed with state grant money to eliminate the fly are feeling the impact, as residents' complaints raise the pressure to figure out a science-backed solution to the problem. "Each year it has gotten a little bit worse and a little bit worse," said Kennett Square Mayor Matt Fetick. "I would get two or three complaints every year. This year, by mid-October, it was almost 40 people." A mayor's cry for help Over four terms as Kennett Square's mayor, Fetick has never seen this many flies. "It was so bad that a woman who had fly strips in her house pulled all the strips down and brought them into Borough Hall and handed them to a receptionist," Fetick said. Another resident told the mayor they held a Thanksgiving dinner at a restaurant due to a fly invasion at home. It wasn't always this bad. For years, researchers say, the potent chemical pesticide diazinon kept Chester County's phorid fly population in check. But in 2012, the Environmental Protection Agency barred mushroom growers from using diazinon, citing negative human health effects. The phorid fly also reproduces exponentially, and because the insect thrives in warmer weathera common occurrence under climate changemore females are giving birth in warmer months, a phenomenon researchers say may be contributing to the noticeably larger population. The phorid fly is harmless to humansphysically, that is. The mental toll the invasion has wrought on Nerney is palpable. In a video that the work-from-home IT contractor showed The Inquirer, a flip-flop clad Nerney meanders across his attic, letting out a deep-bellied sigh with each cluster of phorid flies he inevitably comes across. Because the flies spawn in mushroom soilnot the homes they invadepest-control experts have had little positive news for neighbors like Nerney. "There's nothing you can do," one exterminator recently told Nerney, apart from the bug zappers, fly traps, and mesh screens that cover nearly every conceivable entry point to his home, to no avail. Beyond Nerney's peace of mind, he's also fretting over the potential hit to his property value. Nerney said he bought the home when the flies weren't out in full force, and believed the few insects he did see were due to the house being vacant. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. "This is apparently an open secret," Nerney said of the neighborhood fly problem, frustrated that he had not been adequately warned. Fetick has cast himself as a crusader for beleaguered residents, and in early December, issued an emergency declaration on the invasion with hopes of prompting Harrisburg leaders to devote more resources to help. The plea called for the Department of Agriculture to increase funding for entomologists from Pennsylvania State University who have been studying how to mitigate the fly since the mid-2010s, as well as for uniform guidelines for mushroom growers to help manage the insect population at their facilities and the creation of a multi-agency phorid fly task force. But the cry for help was mostly just that; as the leader of a 6,500 person borough with only one mushroom grower within its borders, Fetick has little power to enforce measures throughout the larger region. State Rep. Christina Sappey, whose district covers Kennett Square and other mushroom towns, hopes other municipalities will pass similar emergency declarations. "This has gone on long enough," the Democratic lawmaker said, mentioning constituent complaints about the flies dating well before the pandemic. "It's hard for people who don't deal in [entomology] to understand," Sappey said. "We're used to seeing a pest and being able to squish it to get rid of it." Still, any major relief for homeowners will ultimately require those Penn State researchers to solve the problem in the first place. Eliminating the fly for good Michael Wolfin, an assistant research professor at Penn State, believes his team is close to that goal. As lead entomologist on the research team, Wolfin has spent recent years traversing the mushroom region to test a variety of fly mitigation tactics. "2020 and 2021 were really good years," Wolfin said, crediting his team's use of pesticide-laced window screens at growing facilities for a brief and promising crackdown that led to fly population reductions at 59 farms participating in the study. But the experiment came to a halt after the company that sold the electrostatically charged screenshardly a widely available productstopped manufacturing them. After "starting from scratch," several alternative tactics look promising, according to Wolfin. Those include introducing microscopic nematodes and mitesnatural predators that damage phorid fly larvae before they hatch (without harm to the mushrooms that make it to the shelves, Wolfin stressed)to mushroom soil and applying the eco-friendly pesticide OrganiShield. But no solution is immediate. Testing can take two years or more. Meanwhile, any new proposal for a licensed food facility would also require approval from the EPA, according to Wolfin. Then officials like Fetick would face another challenge: persuading the scores of mushroom-growing facilities to follow such a plan. Lori Harrison, a spokesperson for the American Mushroom Institute in Avondale, said that the national trade association is taking the phorid fly problem seriously, and that it has been cooperating with Penn State researchers for nearly a decade. "Phorids are a shared, persistent problem with our neighbors that all farms combat," Harrison said. "Farms want to be good neighbors. They and their families also live and work in these communities." The phorid fly is a nuisance to mushroom facilities, too. Researchers estimate that the flies damage 10 to 40% of the mushroom crop when present in the soil, and Harrison said farmers have spent millions attempting to mitigate the insect's impact. Whatever the solution may be, Fetick stressed that it will need to be both affordable and widely implemented by mushroom farmers. "We can put in all the best management practices in the world, but if a small independent grower can't afford it, there's no way to require them to do it," Fetick said. "And without 100% compliance, it's almost futile." 2025 The Philadelphia Inquirer, LLC. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: from Pexels From photographs of decimated buildings to military and civilian casualty counts to narratives of suffering, news media bring information about foreign conflicts to American audiences. But does this coverage actually affect public opinion about whether and how the United States should be involved in a conflict? Does it influence what Americans think about the U.S. providing military, diplomatic, and economic aid to foreign nations? A new paper from researchers at the Annenberg Public Policy Center (APPC) of the University of Pennsylvania examines these questions and finds that media coverage of civilian casualties increases public support for U.S. involvement in conflicts by evoking empathy for the victimsbut only when those victims are from allied countries. The paper, "How civilian casualty information shapes support for US involvement in an ally country's war effort," by Alon P. Kraitzman, a postdoctoral fellow at APPC, Tom W. Etienne, a doctoral student at the University of Pennsylvania, and Dolores Albarracin, the Amy Gutmann Penn Integrates Knowledge University Professor and director of APPC's Communication Science division, was published in Humanities and Social Sciences Communications. The researchers conducted a longitudinal analysis of a large national survey and four experiments to analyze the influence of media coverage of civilian casualties on public opinion about the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war, as well as hypothetical international conflicts. The survey "showed that the salience of civilian casualties in the Ukraine war was positively associated with a democratic justification for the war," the authors write. The experiments manipulated information to explore different possible aspects of how information shapes public support, including the role of empathy, the different effects of information about civilian and military casualties, and how these dynamics apply to hypothetical conflicts beyond Ukraine-Russia. The studies showed that empathy for civilian suffering is a key factor in support for U.S. involvement in a conflict. However, information about civilian casualties does not influence support when the suffering affects a nation that is not a U.S. ally. Previous research has shown that coverage of U.S. military casualties can turn the American public against a military undertaking, and coverage of foreign civilian casualties can lead to calls for ending a U.S. military venture. This paper, says Kraitzman, "shows that coverage of casualties does not necessarily lower support for U.S. involvement. There is a more nuanced dynamic at play. Portrayals of civilian casualties can rally public support for U.S. action to protect civilians abroad." "These findings," says Albarracin, "are important for media outlets and policymakers as they navigate the complex choices in how to portray and engage with international conflicts. They also teach us about the psychological forces that shape policy support in the context of war." More information: How civilian casualty information shapes support for US involvement in an ally country's war effort, Humanities and Social Sciences Communications (2025). DOI: 10.1057/s41599-024-04191-y 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: Grass covered mounds mark the site of the Roman-era lead mine at Charterhouse on Mendip in the United Kingdom. Credit: Andrew Wilson Lead exposure is responsible for a range of human health impacts, with even relatively low levels impacting the cognitive development of children. DRI scientists have previously used atmospheric pollution records preserved in Arctic ice cores to identify periods of lead pollution throughout the Roman Empire, and now new research expands on this finding to identify how this pollution may have affected the European population. The study, published Jan. 6 in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, examined three ice core records to identify lead pollution levels in the Arctic between 500 BCE through 600 CE. This era spans the rise of the Roman Republic through the fall of the Roman Empire, with the study focusing on the approximately 200-year height of the Empire called the Pax Romana. Lead isotopes allowed the research team to identify mining and smelting operations throughout Europe as the likely source of pollution during this period. Advanced computer modeling of atmospheric movement then produced maps of atmospheric lead pollution levels across Europe. Combined with research linking lead exposure to cognitive decline, the research team also identified likely reductions in IQ levels of at least 2 to 3 points among the European population. "This is the first study to take a pollution record from an ice core and invert it to get atmospheric concentrations of pollution and then assess human impacts," says Joe McConnell, research professor of hydrology at DRI and lead author of the study. "The idea that we can do this for 2,000 years ago is pretty novel and exciting." Records of the past preserved in ice McConnell's Ice Core Laboratory at DRI has spent decades examining ice cores from places like Greenland and Antarctica, where sheets of ice have built up over millennia. Ice in the core barrel while drilling on the Greenland ice sheet. Credit: Joseph McConnell Using enormous drills, they painstakingly extract columns of ice as much as 11,000 feet (3,400 meters) long, reaching more distant depths of Earth's history with each inch. McConnell's team creates precise timelines using records of well-dated volcanic eruptions, which stamp the ice record like postcards from the past. Gas bubbles trapped in the ice offer insight into the atmosphere of past eras, while pollutants like lead can be used to interpret mining and industrial activity. McConnell began developing methods to create very detailed lead records in ice more than twenty years ago, when he applied them to more recent history. When archaeologists and historians learned of this work, they approached him hoping to apply these new techniques to the Roman period, seeking answers to lingering historical questions. "The resulting research changed our understanding of the era by finding precise linkages between the lead pollution records and historical events such as population declines associated with periodic plagues and pandemics," adds co-author and ancient historian Andrew Wilson of Oxford University. A growing understanding of the harms of lead pollution Ancient lead pollution stemmed largely from silver mining, whereby the lead-rich mineral galena was melted down to extract silver. For every ounce of silver obtained, this process produced thousands of ounces of leadmuch of which was released to the atmosphere. Ice sample on the melter during continuous ice core chemical analyses at the Desert Research Institute. Credit: Sylvain Masclin In the 20th century, lead pollution predominantly came from the emissions of vehicles burning leaded gasoline. Following the passing of the Clean Air Act in the U.S. in 1970, which restricted the use of leaded gasoline, researchers have tracked the sharp decline of lead in human blood. However, the nationwide exposure, particularly for children born between 1950 and 1985, allowed scientists to track lead's impact on health and cognitive development. "As lead pollution has declined during the last 30 years, it has become more and more apparent to epidemiologists and medical experts just how bad lead is for human development," McConnell says. In adults, high levels of lead exposure are linked to infertility, anemia, memory loss, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and reduced immune response, among other impacts. In children, even low levels of exposure have been connected to reduced IQ, concentration challenges, and reduced academic success. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. While the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considers a blood lead level of 3.5 g/dl the point for medical intervention for children, they have stated that there is no level of lead exposure without risk. Carefully preparing the longitudinal ice core samples for high-resolution lead measurements. Credit: Jessi LeMay/DRI Longitudinal ice core samples awaiting analysis for lead and other chemicals using the continuous ice core analytical system at the Desert Research Institute. Credit: Jessi LeMay/DRI "Lead is known to have a wide range of human health impacts, but we chose to focus on cognitive decline because it's something we can put a number on," says study co-author Nathan Chellman, assistant research professor of snow and ice hydrology at DRI. "An IQ reduction of 2 to 3 points doesn't sound like much, but when you apply that to essentially the entire European population, it's kind of a big deal." The study found that atmospheric lead pollution began during the Iron Age and reached a peak during the late 2nd century BCE at the height of the Roman Republic. It then declined sharply during the 1st century BCE, during the crisis of the Roman Republic, before increasing around 15 BCE following the rise of the Roman Empire. Lead pollution remained high until the Antonine Plague from 165 to the 180s CE, which severely affected the Roman Empire. It wasn't until the High Middle Ages in the early 2nd millennium CE that lead pollution in the Arctic exceeded the sustained high levels of the Roman Empire. According to the research, more than 500 kilotons of lead were released into the atmosphere during the nearly 200-year height of the Roman Empire. Although ice core records show that Arctic lead pollution was up to 40-fold higher during the highest historical peak in the early 1970s, the insight gained from this study demonstrates how "humans have been impacting their health for thousands of years through industrial activity," McConnell says. More information: McConnell, Joseph R., Pan-European atmospheric lead pollution, enhanced blood lead levels, and cognitive decline from Roman-era mining and smelting, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2025). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2419630121 Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Land use patterns in the Englewood-area of Chicago downloaded from the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) website (https://datahub.cmap.illinois.gov/). Data were recoded in R using the classification scheme provided by CMAP (https://cmapgis.maps.arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=9ff569e9a5f54f098c38d3b8003c7888). The area is 43% residential (single-family housing and multi-family housing units), followed by vacant lots (24%) and green spaces (5%). Credit: SSMPopulation Health (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2024.101730 A new study used acoustic sensors that detect the sound of gunfire to show how often children in one Chicago neighborhood are exposed to gunshots while walking to and from school. Results showed that nearly two-thirds of schools in the Englewood neighborhood of Chicago had at least one gun incident within 400 meters (about one-quarter mile) of where children were walking home during the 202122 school year. These findings suggest a need to redefine federal definitions of school gun violence to include indirect forms of violence that take place near schools, not only on school grounds, in order to more appropriately capture the burden on communities of color, said Gia Barboza-Salerno, lead author of the study and assistant professor of public health and social work at The Ohio State University. "Not all the violence children are exposed to is direct violence or happens on school grounds," Barboza-Salerno said. "But that doesn't mean it doesn't have an impact. Hearing gunshots on the way to and from school is terrifying and will affect how kids perform in school." The study was published recently in the journal SSM-Population Health. The findings are important because research shows that exposure to gun violence in schools is linked to poor outcomes for students, including diminished performance on standardized assessments in mathematics and English, elevated rates of absenteeism, decreased student enrollment, and lower graduation rates. In this new study, the researchers found that 4.5 times more gunshots were detected using the acoustic sensors compared to what police recorded in investigative reports. This sensor data shows how staggering the amount of indirect violence is for children in Englewood, and potentially other areas, said study co-author Sharefa Duhaney, a graduate student in public health at Ohio State. "You can't just put metal detectors in schools to deal with violence," Duhaney said. "Children are exposed to violence on the way to and from school, and we need to recognize that." Englewood, a community on the south side of Chicago, is one of the most violent in the United States. In 2022, the Englewood area accounted for about 10% of all gun violence that occurred in Chicago. The community is 94% Black and one of the most socioeconomically vulnerable neighborhoods in the city. The researchers used computational spatial network methods to analyze data on gunshots detected by acoustic sensors operated along Safe Passage Routes for each school in the Englewood School District. These routes are designated routes created to ensure safer travel for students walking to and from school. The study analyzed gunshots detected during the morning (69 a.m.) and afternoon (36 p.m.) commutes of children during the 202122 school year. Acoustic detectors showed 610 gunshots fired in Englewood on days when schools were in session during the school year. Of, those 52% occurred during afternoon commutes and 12% during the morning commutes. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. Results showed that 40% of Englewood schools had at least one gunshot fired within 400 meters of the routes to school during the morning commute, and 62% had at least one during the afternoon commute. "Hearing gunshots during school has not typically been considered 'school gun violence," but it should be, Barboza-Salerno said. "Imagine what that is like for children to hear gunshots while walking to school and how scared they must be." Analysis of the data showed that shooting incidents cluster along city streets, including safe passage routes, near schools. The configurations of streets that support walking for students also attract other types of foot traffic, and increase the likelihood of violent incidents, Duhaney said. "Youth in violence-prone areas are not safe along Safe Passage Program Routes," she said. One issue in Englewood is that almost half of residents live in households without access to vehicles, meaning that residents are heavily dependent on public transit and walking. Other studies have shown that students feel safer going to school via car rather than walking, but that is not an option for many in the community. The researchers noted that the U.S. Department of Education is directed to collect and report on data on school safety, including violence. But they said the definition of gun violence doesn't currently include witnessing and hearing gun violence. In addition, the focus on student safety should go beyond what happens on school grounds and beyond direct violence: Hardening schools and using metal detectors and police officers there won't solve the problem, the researchers said. They emphasized the need for policymakers to focus on violence prevention in the communities at large. "We are failing to address the underlying issues in the community that lead to violence," Barboza-Salerno said. "We need to focus on the root causes." Hexin Yang, a graduate student in social work and public health at Ohio State, was also a co-author of the study. More information: Gia Barboza-Salerno et al, Spatial accessibility to gun violence exposure on walkable routes to and from school, SSM - Population Health (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2024.101730 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: Distribution of magnetic anomalies at the lunar surface. Credit: Science Advances (2025). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adp3333 A large team of researchers with varied backgrounds at the Chinese Academy of Sciences has found evidence of a weak magnetic field on the moon approximately 2 billion years ago. In their study published in the journal Science Advances, they analyzed rock samples returned by China's Chang'e-5 lunar exploration mission. Benjamin Weiss at MIT has published a Focus piece in the same journal issue outlining the history of research surrounding the moon's magnetic field and the work by the team on this new effort. In 2020, the Chang'e-5 space probe returned to Earth from the moon carrying 1,731 grams of lunar dust and rocks. Pieces of those samples have been studied by multiple groups since then. In this new effort, the researchers studied some of those samples to learn more about the history of the moon's magnetic field. The moon does not currently have a global magnetic field, but it once did, courtesy of thermomechanical convection deep in its interior that created a dynamo effect. Analysis of moon rocks returned by the Apollo astronauts and the Soviet Union's uncrewed Luna missions showed evidence of a magnetic field on the moon approximately 4 billion years ago, albeit a weak one, approximately 1/20th that of Earth's. Evidence of a magnetic field has provided scientists with evidence of molten fluid residing deep within the moon, which in turn supports theories regarding the nature of its creation and subsequent history. Testing of the samples brought back by Chang'e-5, which were mostly basalt, showed that the moon had a magnetic field of between 2,000 to 4,000 nanoteslas approximately 2 billion years ago, which would have been during the middle years of its existence. The finding suggests the moon had molten material below its surface far longer than previously thought, and also suggests it was likely experiencing volcanism later than thoughtand that it might have had more water frozen in its shadowed regions. A magnetic field would have shielded water on the surface from the solar wind, preventing chemical reactions that would have converted it to other materials. More information: Shuhui Cai et al, Persistent but weak magnetic field at the Moon's midstage revealed by Chang'e-5 basalt, Science Advances (2025). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adp3333 Benjamin P. Weiss, The Moon goddess's magnetic midlife, Science Advances (2025). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adu7441 Journal information: Science Advances 2025 Science X Network This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: CC0 Public Domain Fluorescent-colored sand sprinkled on San Diego County beaches could help reveal the complicated patterns of erosion that plague the region's coastline. A so-called "tracer study" would use environmentally benign grains of bright material to show the movement of sand carried by ocean currents. The technique is recommended in a report recently completed by a "sediment management task force" for the county's regional planning agency. Recent studies by oceanographers at Scripps Institution of Oceanography and elsewhere take issue with the long-held belief that sediment migrates steadily from north to south in the water along the Pacific Coast. "The 'river of sand' concept is over-simplistic," said Keith Greer, deputy director of regional planning for the San Diego Regional Association of Governments. Research over the last decade or more shows the patterns are far more complicated. Sediment movement varies by location, by season and from year to year. It swirls in "sub-cells" around jetties, into harbors and away from river mouths, the task force's report states. "We need more information about where sand stays longer," said Greer, who participated in the year-long study by the task force for SANDAG's Shoreline Preservation Working Group. Scientists, engineers and others in the task force met five times beginning in June 2023 for presentations by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, the University of California, coastal lagoon managers and environmental consultants. Together, they compiled the latest information available on sediment within the Oceanside littoral cell, which extends from Dana Point in Orange County to La Jolla in San Diego. "It was like taking a master class in oceanography," Greer said. Scientists, environmentalists and public agencies such as the California Coastal Commission see sand replenishment as the best hope for the region's shrinking beaches. The size of the grains of sand, the amount of sand deposited, and the frequency of sand replenishments are all factors in the effectiveness of beach nourishment projects, Greer said. Also, some sites seem to hold sand longer than others for reasons yet to be determined. Tracer studies could reveal more about those factors, he said. "The information would contribute to the design of beach nourishment programs, sand bypassing operations, and design and siting of sediment retention measures," Greer said. The technology calls for placing natural or artificial material in a variety of bright colors on the beach or in shallow water to match the size and density of natural grains of sand. The unique colors and various sizes would enable scientists to track the effects of the ocean currents over months and even years. Tracer studies have been used around the world to study coastal erosion. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers used the process from 2006 to 2009 to examine littoral sand transport at the mouth of the Columbia River in Washington. The results were used to determine the best places to deposit sediment dredged from the river's navigation channel. Oceanside's harbor has long influenced sediment flow within the Oceanside littoral cell. The harbor, built in the 1960s, shares an entrance with the Camp Pendleton Boat Basin, built in the 1940s. Together, they stop much of the southbound sand and shrink Oceanside beaches. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. The Corps of Engineers dredges the harbor mouth annually and deposits the sand on the city's northernmost beaches. But there's not enough of the material, and beaches south of the Oceanside pier are shrinking at an increasing rate. The task force report also recommends that SANDAG "develop a regional consensus to install and monitor at least one pilot sand retention project." Oceanside officials said last month they have just the spot for it. Oceanside has spent more than two years and more than $3 million so far on its own sand replenishment and retention effort called the Re:Beach project. City officials asked SANDAG's working group earlier this month to include it as the region's pilot project. The plan calls for pumping nearly a million cubic yards of sand from offshore deposits onto the beach, holding the sand there between two artificial headlands and building an artificial reef to protect it. "The city has made a lot of progress," said Jayme Timberlake, Oceanside's coastal zone administrator. Planning, design and engineering are well underway, and in November the city narrowed the possible location for the project to a few blocks south of Tyson Park. If approved by the California Coastal Commission and other state, federal and local agencies, the city would have to find grants for between $30 million and $50 million to cover construction costs. Oceanside is optimistic that the project could be a model for other coastal cities to follow. A recent preliminary economic analysis showed widening the beaches is well worth the multi-million-dollar investment, according to Phil King, a semi-retired professor of economics at San Francisco State University. Tourism, property values and quality of life are all boosted by wider beaches, he said. Formulas for measuring the effects have been around since the 1950s. "The benefits are much greater than the costs here," King said in October. "You can justify this project very easily, even using fairly conservative assumptions." SANDAG has begun preliminary studies for what could be its third regional sand replenishment, which for the first time could include San Clemente and Dana Point in Orange County. However, except for initial studies, that massive effort is unfunded and several years in the future. Also, as with the previous regional projects, so far there is no plan to include retention devices such as the artificial headlands and reef proposed in Oceanside. "This is something that others can use in this fight that we all realize is so important," said Oceanside City Councilmember Eric Joyce, a member of the SANDAG Shoreline Preservation Working Group. A tracer study would help gather information, Joyce said, but a successful pilot project is more important and could provide solutions for the entire region. Mitch Silverstein, policy manager for the Surfrider Foundation's San Diego chapter, also supported the idea of selecting Oceanside for the pilot project. "It is already on the ground, running," Silverstein said. "It does make sense for that to be the pilot." Beaches across San Diego County's coastline are shrinking for a number of reasons, as reviewed in the task force report. About 50% of the sand that historically came from natural bluff erosion or flowed downstream in rivers has been lost, it states. Those losses are accelerating with the advent of sea-level rise and the increasingly fierce storms associated with climate change. Also recommended in the task force's report is for SANDAG to combine the information from the agency's four shoreline policy documents into a single, updated document and make it available online through a public portal. The task force's recommendations will be included in SANDAG's Shoreline Management Program for the upcoming fiscal year 202526. 2025 The San Diego Union-Tribune. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The Rhone Glacier in Switzerland in August 2001 and August 2024, based on false-color imagery from the Landsat 7 and 8 satellites. Credit: Vilnius University In Europe and around the globe, melting glaciers are transforming both landscapes and national borders. In this article, Elze Buslaviciute and Dr. Laurynas Jukna, researchers at the Institute of Geosciences of Vilnius University, discuss space-based observations of this phenomenon. When we think of glaciers, vast ice sheets in polar regions often come to mind, such as those in Antarctica or Greenland. However, there are many more glaciers in the world, and they are far more diverse. Globally, there are currently more than 200,000 glaciers that do not fall into the category of ice sheets (continental glaciers greater than 50,000 km). These include glacial valleys, hanging glaciers, mountain glaciers, ice caps, etc., which are under 50,000 km and often concentrated in mountainous regions. Such glaciers are also common in Europe, particularly in Iceland, the Scandinavian Peninsula, Svalbard, the Pyrenees, and the European Alps. Glaciers are massive ice bodies that move under the force of gravity. They form where the accumulation of snow exceeds its ablation. Over time, snow compacts into firnpartially compacted granular snowand, eventually, transforms into solid glacier ice. Roughly 20,00022,000 years ago, glaciers (or, to be more precise, an ice sheet that shifted from Scandinavia) shaped present-day European terrain, leaving distinct marks on the landscape that still remain visible today. In modern times, glaciers continue to play a critical role: they store freshwater, sustain Europe's rivers and lakes, and regulate both water runoff and air temperatures. Monitoring Alpine glacier melt from space While glaciers in the Alps have been retreating since the end of the Ice Age, the pace of their melting has accelerated in recent decades due to human-induced global warming. According to the long-term observations by Glacier Monitoring in Switzerland (GLAMOS), the area of glaciers in the Swiss Alps decreased from 1,311 km in 1973 to 961 km in 2016. This represents a loss of almost 350 km of glacial area in under half a century. Such large-scale monitoring is based on archival aerial and satellite imagery. Glacier melting from 1850 to 2016 in southwestern Switzerland based on GLAMOS aerial and satellite observations. On the right is a false-color Landsat 8 satellite image from 2 October 2016, with lines indicating the distribution of glaciers during different periods. Credit: Vilnius University NASA's Landsat mission, which has been monitoring the Earth since 1972, has provided invaluable data on glacier loss. False-color Landsat satellite images showcase the heavily visited Rhone Glacier and the source of the Rhone River in Switzerland. The image, comprising near infrared, red, and green bands, highlights glaciers in bluish-white tones, while the surrounding vegetation appears red. A comparison of the images taken in August 2001 and August 2024 reveals a striking reduction in the area covered by the glacier. Satellite data can be used to track changes in the glacial area, analyze shifts in glacier height, and measure volume variations. As glaciers increase in mass, they start to move, and this movement can be monitored using active sensors like IceSAT-2/GLAS and radars such as the Sentinel-1 satellite. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. Melting glaciers are altering Europe's borders The implications of melting glaciers go beyond ecological concernsthis phenomenon also has geopolitical consequences. Significant sections of the borders between Italy, Switzerland, and Austria are defined by watershed lines that run along the highest mountain ridges. As glaciers melt or mountain peaks collapse, the established natural boundaries between countries can shift. In 2006, Italy and Austria signed an agreement allowing their shared border to be redrawn in response to shifting mountain ridges. Similarly, the border between Italy and Switzerland has also become subject to adjustment: for instance, in 2024, the melting of the Matterhorn Glacier shifted the mountain's highest point toward Italy, thereby slightly expanding Switzerland's territory. However, changing national borders is not the only issue. The Alps are critical to feeding major river networks such as the Rhone and the Rhine, which run through several countries. In Switzerland, many villages located near glaciers rely on tourism, which is directly tied to this natural phenomenon. While local efforts, such as the use of reflective geotextiles to slow glacial melt, can provide temporary relief, long-term solutions require coordinated global action to combat climate change and mitigate its impact on this vulnerable region. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Amid heightened tensions between the United States and China, the two countries signed a bilateral science and technology agreement on Dec. 13, 2024. The event was billed as a "renewal" of a 45-year-old pact to encourage cooperation, but that may be misleading. The revised agreement drastically narrows the scope of the original agreement, limits the topics allowed to be jointly studied, closes opportunities for collaboration and inserts a new dispute resolution mechanism. This shift is in line with growing global concern about research security. Governments are worried about international rivals gaining military or trade advantages or security secrets via cross-border scientific collaborations. The European Union, Canada, Japan and the United States unveiled sweeping new measures within months of each other to protect sensitive research from foreign interference. But there's a catch: Too much security could strangle the international collaboration that drives scientific progress. As a policy analyst and public affairs professor, I research international collaboration in science and technology and its implications for public and foreign policy. I have tracked the increasingly close relationship in science and technology between the U.S. and China. The relationship evolved from one of knowledge transfer to genuine collaboration and competition. Now, as security provisions change this formerly open relationship, a crucial question emerges: Can nations tighten research security without undermining the very openness that makes science work? China's ascent changes the global landscape China's rise in scientific publishing marks a dramatic shift in global research. In 1980, Chinese authors produced less than 2% of research articles included in the Web of Science, a curated database of scholarly output. By my count, they claimed 25% of Web of Science articles by 2023, overtaking the United States and ending its 75-year reign at the top, which had begun in 1948 when it surpassed the United Kingdom. In 1980, China had no patented inventions. By 2022, Chinese companies led in U.S. patents issued to foreign companies, receiving 40,000 patents compared with fewer than 2,000 for U.K. companies. In the many advanced fields of science and technology, China is at the world frontier, if not in the lead. Since 2013, China has been the top collaborator in science with the United States. Thousands of Chinese students and scholars have conducted joint research with U.S. counterparts. Most American policymakers who championed the signing of the 1979 bilateral agreement thought science would liberalize China. Instead, China has used technology to shore up autocratic controls and to build a strong military with an eye toward regional power and global influence. Leadership in science and technology wins wars and builds successful economies. China's growing strength, backed by a state-controlled government, is shifting global power. Unlike open societies where research is public and shared, China often keeps its researchers' work secret while also taking Western technology through hacking, forced technology transfers and industrial espionage. These practices are why many governments are now implementing strict security measures. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. Nations respond The FBI claims China has stolen sensitive technologies and research data to build up its defense capabilities. The China Initiative under the Trump administration sought to root out thieves and spies. The Biden administration did not let up the pressure. The 2022 Chips and Science Act requires the National Science Foundation to establish SECUREa center to aid universities and small businesses in helping the research community make security-informed decisions. I am working with SECURE to evaluate the effectiveness of its mission. Other advanced nations are on alert, too. The European Union is advising member states to boost security measures. Japan joined the United States in unveiling sweeping new measures to protect sensitive research from foreign interference and exploitation. European nations increasingly talk about technological sovereignty as a way to protect against exploitation by China. Similarly, Asian nations are wary of China's intentions when it seeks to cooperate. Australia has been especially vocal about the threat posed by China's rise, but others, too, have issued warnings. The Netherlands issued a policy for secure international collaboration. Sweden raised the alarm after a study showed how spies had exploited its universities. Canada has created the Research Security Center for public safety and, like the U.S., has established regionally dispersed advisers to provide direct support to universities and researchers. Canada now requires mandatory risk assessment for research partnerships involving sensitive technologies. Similar approaches are underway in Australia and the U.K. Germany's 2023 provisions establish compliance units and ethics committees to oversee security-relevant research. They are tasked with advising researchers, mediating disputes and evaluating the ethical and security implications of research projects. The committees emphasize implementing safeguards, controlling access to sensitive data and assessing potential misuse. Japan's 2021 policy requires researchers to disclose and regularly update information regarding their affiliations, funding sourcesboth domestic and internationaland potential conflicts of interest. A cross-ministerial R&D management system is unrolling seminars and briefings to educate researchers and institutions on emerging risks and best practices for maintaining research security. The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development keeps a running database with more than 206 research security policy statements issued since 2022. Openness waning Emphasis on security can strangle the international collaboration that drives scientific progress. As much as 25% of all U.S. scientific articles result from international collaboration. Evidence shows that international engagement and openness produce higher-impact research. The most elite scientists work across national borders. Even more critically, science depends on the free flow of ideas and talent across borders. After the Cold War, scientific advancement accelerated as borders opened. While national research output remained flat in recent years, international collaborations showed significant growth, revealing science's increasingly global nature. The challenge for research institutions will be implementing these new requirements without creating a climate of suspicion or isolation. Retrenchment to national borders could slow progress. Some degree of risk is inherent in scientific openness, but we may be coming to the end of a global, collaborative era in science. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. At the age of 102, Yang Yi, a distinguished translator known for her work on English author Emily Bronte's classic Wuthering Heights, reminisces about the beginning of her 80-year friendship with the late literary giant Ba Jin. This touching moment is part of an eight-episode documentary Ba Jin, which was shot to commemorate the 120th anniversary of the birth of one of the most influential and well-respected writers of 20th-century China. Late last month, the program was broadcast on China Central Television's CCTV-9, reaching over 10.45 million households, according to CVB, a television show statistics collector affiliated with the National Radio and Television Administration. Earlier last year, the series won the Best Documentary of the 32nd China TV Golden Eagle Awards, one of the highest such accolades in the country. "Ba Jin was not only a distinguished writer, but also a deep thinker. His greatest attribute was his bravery in speaking the truth," says Wang Junjie, chief director of the series and also director of the China Radio and Television Art Research Center. Speaking about his initial impulse to make the documentary over a decade ago, during his tenure as the deputy head of Jilin Radio and TV Station, Wang says he had the opportunity to explore the lesser-known stories of more than 600 cultural celebrities through the long-running program Hui Jia (Returning Home). "Since then, I have developed a keen interest in biographical documentaries, and I noticed that Ba Jin had received limited coverage, and no documentary had been dedicated solely to him," he says. The series employs a nonlinear narrative to explore different facets of the writer's life, from his upbringing in a feudal patriarchal family, to his studies abroad and efforts to establish the country's most influential literary magazine Harvest. Born into a wealthy family in Chengdu, Sichuan province, in 1904, Ba Jin who was born as Li Yaotang achieved literary acclaim with his debut novella Mie Wang (Destruction), which he published under his pen name of Ba Jin while studying in France in 1929. Following the publication between 1933 and 1940 of his popular semi-biographical trilogy Current comprising the novels Family, Spring, and Autumn Ba Jin emerged as one of the most influential writers in the country. In 1960, he was appointed vice-chairman of the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles. Over the course of his decades-long career, he wrote 20 novels and novellas, 15 short stories, 37 essay collections, and undertook 20 translations. He died at the age of 101 in Shanghai in 2005. For Wang, the process of making the documentary was akin to a journey back to student days, and gave him a deeper understanding of the literary icon beloved of generations of Chinese. "I have become a devoted admirer of Ba Jin. His work documents the turbulence and transformation of an era, and captures the relentless pursuit of freedom, equality and human liberation, and serves as a testament to the times," Wang says. During production, which took nearly six years, Wang and his team interviewed 30 scholars and researchers in cities in China, Russia, Japan and France. Over the course of these travels, which totaled 42,000 kilometers, they consulted historical archives and read extensively, while also shooting 23 terabytes of video footage. The documentary includes some lesser-known stories about the writer. For example, there is the story about Ba Jin leaving Paris for the nearby town of Chateau-Thierry to study French at a middle school and seek respite from his recurrent tuberculosis in cleaner surroundings. The story is recounted to the film crew by a retired teacher called Tony Legendre, who showed them a letter and several photographs from Ba Jin. Other examples include Ba Jin's two journeys to the front lines of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea (1950-53), the conflict known outside of China as the Korean War, where he collected material for his novel Tuan Yuan (Reunion), which was published in 1961 and inspired the 1964 national hit film Heroic Sons and Daughters. "Ba Jin's life is like an epic. Through the documentary, we want more people to explore his world, grasp the essence of his work, and discover the enlightenment and vibrancy of life in his thoughts," Wang says. Wang Yichuan, vice-chairman of the China Literature and Art Critics Association, says that the documentary not only explores Ba Jin's most famous novels but also sheds light on later work, like Sui Xiang Lu (Random Thoughts), which was written between 1978 and 1986, and offers reflections on the era as well as the author. 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: Map of Yemen. It shows Yemen governorates (black borders). Sampling efforts are shown with scaled triangles at their respective geographic locations. Figure was created using the Python libraries matplotlib and basemap using the basemap method shadedrelie (URL: https://pypi.org/project/basemap/ Version: 1.3.2.). Credit: Scientific Reports (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-81615-4 Researchers from Khalifa University, United Arab Emirates, working with regional and international collaborators, have examined Yemeni DNA to reveal how migrations from the Levant, Arabia, and East Africa formed the modern Yemeni gene pool. Analysis of Yemeni genomes revealed genetic contributions from both the Levant and East Africa, with significant regional influxes occurring at different historical periods. The study is published in the journal Scientific Reports. Yemen has historically served as an important crossroads between Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and the Levant. Ancient involvement in spice and incense trade networks connected Yemen to Egypt, Sumer, and Dilmun, while Mediterranean trade with Israel, the Phoenicians, and Greece solidified its role in regional commerce. As wealth grew in Yemen, so did its slavery trade networks with East Africa. Arabia's prehistoric population movements in Yemen have only been superficially explored to date. Past genetic assessments explored ancestral ties but lacked precise insights into when and from where ancient groups arrived. In the study, titled "Human migration from the Levant and Arabia into Yemen since Last Glacial Maximum," researchers analyzed 46 whole genomes and 169 genotype arrays from Yemeni individuals, along with 351 comparative genotype arrays from neighboring populations. They specifically looked for signals of migration from the Levant, Iran and ancient trading partners, as well as the presence of Out of Africa genetic signatures in modern Yemeni populations. Yemen's paternal Y-chromosome haplogroups were dominated by J1, a marker associated with Southwest Asia, indicating ancient ties to the Levant and Arabia along male decent lines. Mitochondrial DNA haplogroups revealed substantial African matrilineal influence, with nearly one-third of Yemeni samples carrying African-specific mtDNA haplogroups such as L2a1, the most widespread haplotype in sub-Saharan Africa. This suggests a robust female-mediated gene flow from East Africa into Yemen at some point. Neanderthal allele frequencies within the population hinted at exchanges that would have taken place early in the Out Of Africa migration and were similar to those found elsewhere in Arabia. Two major gene flow events emerged from the data, one around 5,220 years ago involving populations in Palestine and another about 750 years ago involving East African groups. Levantine contributions align with the time of the Bronze Age and earlier migrations, whereas the East African component may reflect the region's long and intense involvement in slavery. Yemen was a key player in the Red Sea slave trade, particularly involving enslaved people from East Africa. The medieval forced migration into Yemen would be expected to influence the genomics of the population in very specific ways that seem reflected in the research findings. While male slaves were often forced to undergo castration, enslaved women were most likely to be sexually exploited. Under ancient Islamic law, Muslims were not allowed to be enslaved. No such rules existed for the enslavement of non-Muslims. Enslaved African women were often forced into harems, and Islamic law legitimized children born from these relationships. Such children had inheritance rights and were considered free. These practices have been documented, though the scale and specifics have not been extensively studied in Yemen. Slavery was only officially outlawed there in the 1960s. While the study does not explicitly attribute their findings to ancient slavery practices, data showing predominantly Levantine father and significant African mother haplogroups in the modern population would be difficult to explain otherwise. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. When looking at all 22 autosomes, East African alleles show low frequency in most Yemeni groups, except for those in some coastal regions. This difference between the high African maternal haplogroup and low allele frequency implies how substantial the maternal East African influences must have been. Maternal haplogroups are only passed down from mother to child. Despite generations of admixture with predominantly Levantine/Arabian paternal input diluting the total of East African DNA, an unbroken chain of mothers of East African origin persists in around a third of the population. While the study suggests that the alleles of the modern population--which cluster more strongly with Saudi Arabian and Bedouin groups--could have been introduced to Yemen more than 5,000 years ago based on the diversity of paternal haplogroups, it is also clear that the Yemeni population best representing its documented history has East African roots as well. Coastal regions exhibited stronger African admixture in the study, while more northern, inland Yemeni districts indicated tighter genetic ties to Arabia and the Levant. It should not go unnoticed that amidst the long and ongoing civil war in Yemen, the study finds differing historical genomic origin journeys along coastal and inland divisions that overlay well with the demarcated lines of the current conflict. More information: Andreas Henschel et al, Human migration from the Levant and Arabia into Yemen since Last Glacial Maximum, Scientific Reports (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-81615-4 Journal information: Scientific Reports 2025 Science X Network Stephen James Zbornik is an avid reader and has been finding books at the Source Book Store in Davenport since he was a student at Rock Island High School. His partner, Anne Brown, is another avid reader, loving books ever since she was a little girl. Now, the Rock Island couple have taken those passions and bought Source Book Store in downtown Davenport. "My first love is books," Zbornik said. "Whats more powerful than a book? "At Rocky, if I got an in-school suspension where I got credit for being in school, Im not going to get truancy, and I can sit and read my own book the whole day, then sign me up," he said. Brown said when she got in trouble as a little girl, her mother would make her read a book and give a report on it. "I loved it. It wasn't punishment to me," she said. In a world of increasing technology, bookstores can provide a different focus, Zbornik said. I think there is a tremendous future in bookselling, used bookselling especially, because I think in the age of high technology, AI this and computer that and everythings online and so on and so forth, I think people crave the tangible and the published word, the printed word is tangible, he said. And I think its the youth that are picking that up, and I think its the youth that will be good customers moving forward. Dan Pekios tried to sell the store his family has owned since 1939 in 2020. That attempt was on contract, but the deal fell through, and Pekios came out of retirement to save the store in 2024. But now, Zbornik, 41, and Brown, 44, own the store outright. Things will change, Zbornik said. Things always change. Success in life, my grandma says, can be determined by how well one adjusts to change. But theyll change slowly because were not interested in making drastic changes. Our intent is to honor the Pekios legacy in the Quad-Cities and safeguard this treasured cultural resource that is Source Book Store." Pekios said it took him 11 months to get the store back in order after taking it back from the previous buyer. He also wasnt necessarily looking to sell it at this time. No, not at all, he said. I wasnt about to sell it until I felt that the store was back to where it was and in good shape and then sellable. I would have probably hung onto it for about another year. As Brown tells it, Zbornik was browsing the books in the basement area of the bookstore a few weeks ago, and Pekios was ready to close for the day. The two began talking and Pekios mentioned the store was for sale. Pekios is 74 and takes care of his father Robert, who is in his 90s. When Zbornik spoke to Brown about it, she suggested they take a look and consider it. Ive worked for small businesses my whole life, and Ive run my own small business before, and so Im really comfortable with that," Brown said. I have a background with working with an accountant, and I can do bookkeeping. Right away we saw that this was a good fit. I love to read, she said. I know Stephen is great at buying and selling things. This is something hes very good at. Im very good at shopkeeping. I love that end of it, the organization, greeting people. Its a good fit as far as the two of us go. We work well together, and we figured we could own a business together. Pekios, who purchased the store from his father in 1999, said the store was started by his grandfather, George, who immigrated to America when he was 10 years old. The Pekios family settled in East Moline, where there was a large Greek community. Granddad was 15 when he had to quit school and go to work in a foundry, Pekios said. A self-educated man, his grandfather opened the store out of his house in East Moline in 1939 at the age of 30. George and his wife turned the living room into the bookstore, and they and the four kids lived in the back. He started buying books in his free time until he had enough in the living room that his wife started selling the books for him, Pekios said. He kept working for a while and he put almost 15 years in at the foundry. He named it the Source because books were the source of all knowledge. Of course, at that time, before the internet and television, books were the source of all knowledge. George Pekios became an avid reader after he had to drop out of school and wanted to continue his education, Dan Pekios said. After moving to Davenport, George Pekios found a place for the store, which was located where the parking lot of Kilkennys Pub is now. In the 1950s, the store moved to a three-story building where the Irish Memorial is now on West 2nd and Harrison streets. Dans father, Robert Pekios, bought the store and ran it until he retired, and Dan purchased it. The store moved to its current location on West 3rd Street in the late 1970s, when the buildings along that stretch of West 2nd Street were torn down to make room for the Mass Transportation Center. The first book Zbornik said he ever sold was the "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance," and that was to the Source Book Store. That book is once again his. Im 41 and Ive been a blue-collar man all my life, Zbornik said. I was a merchant seaman, I was a chair maker, I was a carpenter, woodworker. Tree work, demolition. Ive done a lot of labor in my life, so the opportunity to make a living with my brain instead of my back at the age of 41 is extremely appealing, he said. And Anne is a tremendous partner, and I would never endeavor to do this without Anne. On Jan1, the "Classical and Glory - Ancient Greek and Roman Sculpture Art Exhibition" kicked off its first stop in China at the Shanxi Museum in Taiyuan. The exhibition showcased a total of 134 pieces of art from ancient Greece to ancient Rome. Spanning centuries from ancient Greece to ancient Rome, the exhibits included exquisite artifacts such as statues of the Greek god Zeus, the Ammon Zeus headstone, and the Punishment of Prometheus sarcophagus, fully demonstrating the brilliant achievements of Western civilization to Chinese audiences. Zhang Huiguo, deputy director of the Shanxi Museum, stated that this exhibition was a large-scale original overseas exhibition introduced by the Shanxi Museum in recent years, featuring high-quality exhibits. Through the comprehensive display of Western culture from gods to humans, from daily life to death, the exhibition aimed to promote closer cultural exchanges and mutual learning between Chinese and Western civilizations, providing the Shanxi audience with a cultural feast. Zhang further expressed, "This exhibition is not only a visual feast but also an opportunity to deeply understand ancient Greek and Roman culture." Local 25-year-old visitor Wang Yongqiang from Taiyuan had visited the exhibition for the third time, stating, "I applied to see the exhibition when it was previewed. What we see here is not just a symbol of ancient Greek civilization but also the crystallization of human art and wisdom." "Shanxi is mainly characterized by wooden ancient architecture, while ancient Greek architecture focuses on stone carving. Here, one can appreciate the different artistic charms of Chinese and Western civilizations," Wang added. As the largest public cultural institution in Shanxi province for the collection, preservation, protection, research, and exhibition of cultural relics, the Shanxi Museum owns more than 500,000 items. The "Classical and Glory - Ancient Greek and Roman Sculpture Art Exhibition" was co-hosted by the Shanxi Museum and the National Museums Liverpool in the UK, running from Jan1 to May. Cancun celebrates Three Kings Day with large rosca de reyes Cancun, Q.R. The city of Cancun hosted the traditional La Rosca Mas Grande (the largest rosca) at the Malecon Tajamar Sunday. Thousands turned out for a free taste of the traditional rosca de reyes or kings bread in celebration of Three Kings Day. Berenice Sosa Osorio, head of the Municipal Welfare Secretariat, represented Cancun mayor Ana Paty Peralta at the event. She said the celebration of Three Kings Day strengthens family ties and preserves Mexican customs. We are very happy with the response from citizens. This is the Cancun that unites us. This tradition is here to stay and achieve family unity, she said in an interview. The public event of the cutting of the large rosca de reyes bread was held a day ahead of the official Three Kings Day, which is January 6. Dia de Los Reyes (known elsewhere as Epiphany) is celebrated on January 6 to honor the Three Wise Men. According to Osorio, the tradition of the rosca de reyes is a custom of Spanish origin that arrived in Mexico to be adopted as one of the most emblematic traditions, since it marks the end of the Christmas season, commemorating the visit of the Three Wise Men to baby Jesus. Cancun police patrol rolls on unstable beach sand bank Cancun, Q.R. Patrolling beach police were assisted by citizens Sunday after rolling their ATV. Police were driving the machine on a Cancun dune around noon when it rolled. The Secretariat of Citizen Security (SSC) vehicle came to a stop on its side after encountering an unstable sand bank near Playa Delfines. Elements of the Navy and Tourist Police, who were inside th ATV at the time, were not injured. Several nearby lifeguards, with the help of a couple of citizens, helped to push the ATV back to its upright position. Authorities were using the vehicle to patrol city beaches during one of the busiest weekends of the year at the time of the incident. Fugitives wanted in 1999 beating death of child captured hiding in Quintana Roo Chetumal, Q.R. A man and woman wanted for the murder of a child that happened 25 years ago have been captured. The pair, wanted for the murder that happened in the state of Jalisco, were arrested in Chetumal Saturday. Both suspects were wanted for the November 1999 beating death of a boy that took place in Teocaltiche, Jalisco. The pair, who were known by police to have moved often, settled in the Quintana Roo capital city in 2002. According to local authorities, the pair identified as Francisco Javier N and Liliana Lucero N, remained hidden until their recent capture. Police say after the 1999 murder of a boy who was beaten, stuffed into a cardboard box and tossed in a dump in the neighboring state, the pair fled to Leon, Guanajuato, Oaxaca and Palenque, Chiapas, before settling in Chetumal. They were taken into custody on outstanding arrest warrants. Police executed an arrest warrant in the municipality of Othon P. Blanco against a man and a woman for their alleged participation in acts possibly constituting the crimes of intentional qualified homicide with advantage and brutal ferocity against a minor male victim, which occurred 25 years ago, authorities reported. The detainees are identified as Francisco Javier N, alias El Profe and/or Profesor, and Liliana Lucero N. The events for which they were sought occurred on November 12, 1999, in Teocaltiche, Jalisco, where the man, after arguing with the woman, beat the victim to death then wrapped him in blankets and put him in a cardboard box, which he tied with a bow. Later, Francisco Javier N took the box and boarded a bus headed to the city of Aguascalientes, where upon arrival, he walked aimlessly finding a garbage dump where he threw the victims body and then returned to his home where Liliana Lucero N was waiting for him, with whom he fled to Leon, Guanajuato. From there they moved to the state of Oaxaca and then to Palenque Chiapas, remaining there for a year. In 2002, they settled in Chetumal in the capital of Quintana Roo, where they remained hidden. In their statement, authorities said this homicide was a matter of great social significance due to the brutality in the commission of the murder. Once the corresponding procedures were completed, the detainees were handed over to the authorities of the state of Aguascalientes, for their transfer and placement at the disposal of the authorities. Shanghai plans to extend child care services to younger children, aiming to establish a seamless continuum of care from infancy to pre-primary school within single institutions, according to a document released by the city government on Tuesday. The city will require synchronized planning, construction and delivery of child care facilities alongside new residential compounds to help working parents balance career responsibilities and child care duties with greater confidence. The initiatives were outlined in the document as part of efforts to improve early childhood care services and promote a more fertility-friendly environment. The measures align with national directives issued in October, which aim to address societal concerns and create a conducive environment for more young people to consider parenthood. To provide inclusive and diverse child care services, the document also encourages industrial parks and employers to offer child care services for children under 3 years old at rates below market prices. Shanghai has set a target for 85 percent of kindergartens, including government-run ones, to offer child care services for children under 3 by the end of 2025. The city also plans to further develop affordable child care services, enhance the quality of baobaowu government-run playgrounds for toddlers in each subdistrict and expand free caregiving services for families in need. Additionally, colleges and vocational schools will be encouraged to establish child care-related programs to nurture professional talent in the field. Surveys conducted across China have identified the lack of child care support and challenges in accessing child care facilities for children under 3 as significant factors deterring young people from starting families. Economic pressures and the demands of child-rearing are also contributing to the issue. China's fertility rate has been declining in recent years, dropping from 1.58 births per woman in 2017 to approximately 1 per woman in 2023. The year 2023 also marked the second consecutive year the country recorded negative population growth. Shanghai has seen a sharp decline in births among its permanent residents, with 98,000 births recorded in 2023, compared to 218,400 in 2016. To address these trends, the Shanghai document proposes implementing differentiated housing policies for families with two or more children and fostering fertility-friendly employment models. Eligible families with more than one child will be prioritized in the city's housing support system, allowing them to move up in the queue and choose larger apartments when applying for affordable housing. Another focus is on addressing the accommodation needs of young adults and increasing the supply of affordable rental homes. In December, Shanghai introduced a policy encouraging employers to create "parent-friendly job posts" with flexible working hours and arrangements to help employees balance work and family responsibilities. Sectors such as manufacturing, hospitality, food services, housekeeping and emerging industries in the digital, cultural and creative sectors are receiving support to pilot these initiatives. Some parents believe more accessible child-related services in education and healthcare could alleviate people's fears about having children. Zhao Jing, a 35-year-old mother of a 5-year-old girl in Shanghai's Changning district, noted that by the end of 2023, pediatric departments had opened in all 10 subdistrict community health service centers in the district. However, at the Xinhua Subdistrict Center, which is closest to her home, pediatric services are available only half a day per week. "We hope such medical services can become more accessible, along with a wider variety of medicines suitable for children," said Zhao. With the winter holiday approaching, some parents are also calling for more government-run child care facilities where working parents can send their children during school breaks. Navy rescues tourist boat suffering mechanical failure in Cancuns Nichupte lagoon Cancun, Q.R. A group of national tourists were rescued after their boat lost engine power. The group made the request for assistance after setting sail from Puerto Juarez and finding themselves unable to return to dock. While boating around the Cancun Hotel Zone, their engine failed, leaving them stranded in the Nichupte lagoon. Personnel from the Navy of Mexico responded to their request for help due to mechanical failure. Boat Tafil, with eight on board, was located at kilometer six of the hotel zone. In a statement, the Navy reported rescuing the group during a weekend security strategy. Through the Interinstitutional Task Force Benito Juarez, a group of tourists was assisted in the Nichupte lagoon at kilometer 6 of the hotel zone. Maritime authorities received a report through the Harbor Masters radio center about a drifting boat, so emergency protocols were activated to search for the vessel, thereby providing support to the crew. According to the Navy, Tafil was carrying six men and two minors who had set sail from a dock in Puerto Juarez. The group was heading down the canal below the Calinda bridge when their engine failed. The malfunction left them unable to finish crossing the Nichupte lagoon. The Benito Juarez Harbor Master issued an Interceptor-type jet boat to locate the stranded boat and return it to shore. All eight were Mexican nationals on vacation in Cancun. Tafil was towed to Puerto Juarez by the Navy vessel. Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, on Monday called for resolutely winning the tough, protracted and all-out battle against corruption. Xi, also Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, emphasized rigorous Party governance with the spirit of reform when addressing the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection. Xi said unprecedented efforts have been made to advance full and rigorous Party governance and the fight against corruption since the beginning of the new era, yielding widely recognized results. He stressed the need to take resolute and sustained actions to fight corruption. "Corruption is the greatest threat to the Party, and combating it represents the most thorough kind of self-reform," Xi said. Confronted with significant challenges in the fight against corruption, the Party has remained committed to investigating and addressing all corruption cases to maintain the integrity of officials, Xi said. But he also noted that the fight against corruption remains "a grave and complex challenge," calling for strengthening resolve and confidence in this regard. Xi emphasized the importance of making greater progress in governing the Party to ensure it remains the strong leadership core in building socialism with Chinese characteristics and to guarantee the steady advancement of Chinese modernization. SIOUX CITY -- Why read a play when you could read a novel, a magazine, really anything else? Why not see the play on stage and skip the paper version? "It's a lot of use of your imagination," said Brock Bourek, manager of theater operations for Sioux City's Lamb Theatre and the leader of its play-reading club, which they've deemed Page to Stage. "You have to use a lot of subtext, and you have to try and figure out what's going on, what's the underlying message being said, and these things that are being said without being said." "You can imagine what it would be like on the stage," said club member and retired English teacher Bill McKenny. "And also it slows it down a little bit more. Sometimes when you would watch it on the stage, things would go by quick -- you'd say, 'I want to think about that a little bit more.'" By reading the play, McKenny said, you can re-read and savor and dwell on a scene or a line as much as you want. The first meeting of the Page to Stage Play Reading Club was August of last year. The club has had a rotating membership of about 22 people, consistently drawing 10 to 12 members to its meetings. Some are educators, some hold doctorates, and some, Bourek said, "are looking for something new and interesting to do." "It's another way for us to kind of reach out into the community," said Russell Wooley, Lamb's managing and artistic director. Club members can cycle in and out as they please; the club operates on a month-to-month basis, meeting to discuss last month's play and hand out copies of this month's play. "We kind of started out with people that were interested in theater itself, but we've really grown to engage people that enjoy reading, that enjoy discussions," Bourek said. "I will say it's probably, primarily a lot of older folk that are on the retired side, that are looking for something extra to do. But it's been really fun and engaging to bring our younger generation in, and we kind of have this generational gap in conversation. We have somebody in the group, he's in his 90s, and he served in World War II. And he'll talk about some of his experiences over life. And we're like, 'Wow, he's just so full of wisdom,' and he has so much knowledge to share. And he's there consistently, every month." The group, Bourek said, has read everything from "comedies to dramas, musicals and plays," classic pieces and contemporary alike. The play for August was Tony Kushner's "Angels in America," an iconic dramatization of the AIDS epidemic. "It's a terrific one," Wooley said. "That was probably one of the more challenging ones," McKenny said of the Pulitzer- and Tony-winning "Angels in America." In September the group began Anton Chekhov's 1904 "The Cherry Orchard," a tale of class status in Tsarist Russia and Chekhov's last before he died. "I try to find pieces that are going to push, and incite conversation," Bourek said. During its early phase, Bourek said he didn't know if the club was going anywhere: "I was not sure what we were going to be able to get out of people. I didn't know if this would take off or not, if we would have any interest in this." Still, he picked out a dozen plays for the club's first 12 months -- a carefully curated set of "notable works," he said; plays that have "merit." Some are plays that the club members might never get the chance to see on the stage. Others are Lamb productions: Club members are invited to experience the play live and in the flesh, having experienced it on the page. McKenny said he usually tries to see the plays in some fashion, often videos on YouTube or borrowing a DVD from the library when the play isn't a Lamb production. "So I can read it, and then watch it performed, too," he said. "Kind of have both experiences." Dear Prudence is Slates advice column. Delia Cai is filling in as Prudie for Jenee Desmond-Harris while shes on parental leave. Submit questions here. Dear Prudence, My in-laws always come here for Thanksgiving, and my husband and I go there for Christmas. I generally get along fine with them, but my mother-in-law, Sheila, sometimes has issues with relinquishing control and respecting boundaries. Sheila has a knack for finding fault in even the most perfect meal and casually accused meat the dinner table, in front of everyoneof serving a store-bought Thanksgiving feast. Her comment felt like a slap in the face after weeks of planning and hours of preparing every dish from scratch. I was left embarrassed and caught off guard, rendered too speechless by her brazenness to even defend myself. A few minutes later, as I was trying to figure out what I should have said, I recalled a memory. Years ago, my mother-in-law had proudly told me about her secret family recipe for pecan pie, a blue ribbonwinning masterpiece passed down for generations. But as I glanced at the pie shed brought this year, I noticed that the crust was too perfect, its edges unnervingly precise. It didnt match her stories of rustic, hand-rolled pastry lovingly shaped by generations of bakers. Thats when it hit me: Shed been buying her pies from a bakery for yearsdecades evenand passing them off as her own. When dessert time rolled around, I carefully cut a slice of her pie, placed it in front of her, and said, Would you like to tell everyone about your secret? My voice was calm, but my frustration was unmistakable. The room went silent. My husband looked bewildered. My father-in-law let out a nervous chuckle. And my mother-in-law? She turned beet red. After an excruciating pause, my husband quickly changed the subject. Now Im left in a bind. Do I let this go and risk another passive-aggressive showdown next holiday season, or do I expose her decadeslong baking fraud once and for all? Chef With a Slice of Truth Dear Chef, My, that is rich! I think you should let it go, though. It sounds as if your mother-in-law got your message loud and clear. Your goal is not to humiliate her in front of the whole family but to wrest from her a bit of the basic respect she owes you. Mission accomplished. Be the bigger person and let her eat her (store-bought) humble pie. If she ever accuses you of serving a ready-made feast again, give her a wink and make a quip about how that temptation to take shortcuts is just so hard to resist, isnt it? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Get advice from Prudiesubmit a question! Please keep questions short (<150 words), and dont submit the same question to multiple columns. We are unable to edit or remove questions after publication. Use pseudonyms to maintain anonymity. Your submission may be used in other Slate advice columns and may be edited for publication. Thanks! Your question has been submitted. Dear Prudence, * Your letter signoff Your pronouns Your email (optional and confidentialplease include if you're open to Dear Prudence following up) Submit Dear Prudence, Im settling the guest list for my upcoming wedding to send save-the-date cards, and Im trying to figure out if it makes sense to invite a couple of old work friends. My partner and I had a longer engagement, and I was close to these co-workers when we first got engaged in late 2022. We all worked in a tiny remote office and had bonded over feeling like the only sane people in a seriously toxic work environment. At the time of my engagement, I considered them close friendsthey were an integral part of my support network up until I left that job, and vice versa. When my partner and I picked a venue over a year ago, my friends excitedly put our wedding date on their calendars. I left that workplace at the end of 2023 with the help of those friends, but Ive had a hard time keeping in touch with them since. Ive seen them twice when we were all in the same city, but aside from that, I find that my texts asking about their lives or seeing if they have time to catch up go unanswered more often than not. When I do hear back from them, they usually apologize for forgetting to respond, inquire about how wedding planning is going, and express excitement about the wedding. I know that each of them is dealing with some serious illnesses in their families, but their attempts to engage with me have noticeably tapered off, especially since the summer. The last time I heard from them was in an old work group chat with others, but I hadnt gotten answers from the individual messages Id sent to them previously. Advertisement Advertisement At this point, I feel as if Ive made a good effort with them both, but we just arent as close as we used to be. The only times I hear from them are connected to developments at our old workplace every couple of months, but we havent caught up in quite a while. If they wanted to keep in touch with me, theyd be making more of an effort too, right? I suppose I have my answer right there, but it feels weird to me to cut someone from the guest list for taking a long time (weeks) to respond to texts. (Were trying to keep the wedding on the smaller side, around 100 guests.) Am I overthinking this? How do I navigate telling them theyre not invited? Or dont I? Ive remained close with another old work friend who would be invited to the wedding, so they would definitely be aware that they were cut from the guest list. Should I Save Their Seats? Dear Save, Advertisement I think you should keep them on the guest list! Theres nothing in your letter about their texting behavior that makes me think these friends arent genuinely thrilled to celebrate your big day. They just sound busy. If you havent confronted them directly about wanting them to make more of an effort, you cant blame them for not magically reading your mind and sensing that youd like more contact. Also, texting is simply a terrible barometer of whether someone is interested in maintaining a friendship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Work friendships are tricky because the bond relies on a very specific time and place in your life, but theyre also incredibly special because these are people whove experienced a side of you that few of your actual friends and family will ever see. Even if you dont feel particularly close with these friends right now, consider them valuable witnesses to a certain past chapter of your life who are worth celebrating this new chapter with. It may be that this wedding is the opportunity youve all been looking for to properly reconnect. Want Advice on Parenting, Kids, or Family Life? Submit your questions to Care and Feeding here. Its anonymous! (Questions may be edited for publication.) Dear Prudence, My husband and I own a business, and recently one of our male employees passed away unexpectedly. My husband mostly ran the business, and this employee was with us for almost 10 years. Of course I am sad about his passing and trying to support his family, but my husband instantly became the bereaved brother of the deceased. He stood in the receiving line at the visitation to be comforted along with the actual family, and now, a week later, hes still getting condolence phone calls, co-workers sympathizing at what a mess he was at the funeral, etc. I stayed by his side during the visitation and funeral, but it felt inappropriate to be standing with the family at the casket. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The issue is, they werent like brothers. I know grief is different for everyone, but Ive been married to this man for over 20 years, and this employee was never part of our social circle. We never went to each others homes and interacted only at work and work functions. Our industry went through a lot during COVID, and I know they had professional struggles together that I wasnt part of, but my husband is equating this loss to the grief of losing his biological brother if he were to pass, and hes receiving a commensurate amount of sympathy from others based on his characterization of their close relationship and the hole that now exists in his life. My husband is very successful and well respected but has some narcissistic tendencies. Im sure he really believes that his loss is almost equal to that of the deceaseds family. Am I missing something? Is it possible they shared this close connection that I was oblivious to, or is there some psychological switch that happened in my husband? Im having a hard time comforting and being there for him while squaring his level of grief and the way he has seemingly elevated the intensity of his relationship with the deceased. Good Grief Dear Good Grief, Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Death is mysterious. When we experience the death of someone who falls outside conventional ties, it can affect us in strange, inexplicable ways. It can sober us up, scare us to pieces, remind us of someone else entirely, uncork decades of random emotion, or move us forever. Your responsibility as a spouse isnt to try to get to the bottom of the truth of your husbands grief; even if this were someone you deemed as acceptably close, you might not agree with the way he chooses to mourn. Advertisement Indulge in your patient side here and let him work through this however he wants; in the meantime, reserve your judgments for venting to a trusted friend. I would encourage you to adopt the mindset of I dont totally get it, but Im here for him. Assume youre not going to get the full story of the way this death has affected your husband for a few months, if not years. Dear Prudence, My father-in-law was a miserable old hoot while my mother-in-law was alive. He is worse now that she is gone. We were lucky he totaled his car running into a neighbors mailbox and not their kid. He refuses to cook, and my husband, my sister-in-law, and I live about two hours away and come up only a few times a week. We are lucky there is a grocery store within walking distance of him. An employee was kind enough to offer to cook cut-up chicken without seasoning for my FIL if the order was placed 24 hours in advance. My FIL could walk over there and basically pick up a hot meal every day. Advertisement Advertisement Instead, my FIL and sister-in-law treated this poor employee as their personal server. My FIL made himself a pest because this employee would not drop everything to cook for him or stop to talk to him. My SIL couldnt be bothered to remember to call in the order or remind her father when he had to pick up the food. Then this poor person had the audacity to go on vacation, and the replacement refused to take their crapso my SIL tried to get the employee and their manager fired! My husband and I got told this story over the holiday with my sister- and father-in-law ranting in their delusional self-righteousness. Advertisement I am a manager in retail and have to deal with terrible customers like them every day. I lost my temper and told them they tried to ruin this poor persons life because they were too lazy and stupid to pick up the phone and follow a reasonable rule. My FIL launched into another racist rant, and I left the table. Afterward, I told my husband I was done dealing with this. We have been bending over backward trying to help, only to receive no thanks and worse behavior. He is now upset with me. Im just tired. I really want to call or email the company to apologize on behalf of my FIL. What should I do? No Good Deed Dear No Good Deed, Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You need to have a serious talk with your husband about the real issue at hand: Your father-in-law is unable to take care of himself. He lives alone, seems to have some trouble driving, and either cant or wont cook. This isnt simply a case of a boomer being a nuisance but a sign of an untenable situation. Your husband (with or without his sister, who seems remarkably unhelpful) needs to make some hard decisions about caring for an aging parent. It frankly sounds as if this man shouldnt be living on his own. I think it may be worth a little effort to get in contact with the grocery employee, not only to apologize on behalf of your father-in-law but also to get intel from someone whos had frequent enough contact with this man, in order to form a complete picture of his state of mind and health. The larger conversation about your father-in-laws well-being might freak your husband out or upset him, but the longer hes in denial about the real gravity of this problem, the worse it will become for everyone involved. Delia Classic Prudie My future mother-in-law would like to wear her wedding dress to our wedding. Im less concerned about the dress and more concerned about what this says about our future relationship. She is a very kind, considerate person, and I am certain that she knows this is not a very nice thing to do. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. When my husband was offered an amazing job last summer working on an animated film in Paris, our family happily decided to tag along. I envisioned long strolls along the Seine, discovering some of the less-visited museums that I was never able to get to when I was a tourist in Paris, and trying to learn enough French to get through basic daily tasks. And wine. Lots of good, cheap wine. What I didnt expect, as a veteran financial journalist, was learning a new money hack that has a uniquely French twist. In France, over 95 percent of all employees are paid once a month. Compare that with the U.S., where its much more common to be paid weekly or biweekly, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Indeed, the numbers in the U.S. are almost inverse to those in France: Only 10 percent of all employees are paid once a month in the U.S. Logic, or at least my own experience managing our familys expenses over the years, would tell me that getting paid once a month would make it much harder to manage our money. Once the big items like rent and tuition for the ridiculously overpriced international school we sent our son to were accounted for, both of which were due on the first of the month, there was less than 50 percent left to pay for everything elsefood, utilities, that aforementioned cheap wineuntil the first of the month rolled around again. When I first learned about whats known as le mensuel, it honestly felt like a bad joke. I was convinced that it was going to be the hardest part of living in Paris, even harder than trying to learn the language or dealing with the oft-mentioned French bureaucracy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But instead of feeling stressed out as the end of the month neared and trying to stretch our food dollars with lots of pasta and beans, I felt much more in control, knowing that this large chunk of money would hit our bank account on the first of the month. Even more surprising, it taught me to be less dependent on credit cards. In France, credit cards and debt in general are practically nonexistent and certainly frowned upon culturally. Thats not the case in the U.S., where Americans owe about $1.2 trillion in credit card debt, according to a recent study by the New York Federal Reserve Bank. Advertisement Instead, its much more common to use your debit card for everything from Le Metro to a Michelin-starred dinner. It works essentially the same as using debit cards in the U.S., and the cards are visually indistinguishable from American credit cards. The main difference was that my card, from an online bank called Revolut, was tied to our bank account, which meant that every time I used it, I was spending money that I actually already had in my account, as opposed to money that I was promising to pay at some future date. As a result, it was a lot harder to overspend and get into financial trouble in France because I was always aware of what I was spending and what I had left. Thats not always the case when I use my American credit cards. Unless I hit my credit limit, I can continue charging as much as I want. Indeed, one of American Express main selling points is that they dont have a preset credit limit. Related From Slate Want to Get Out of Debt? Stop Paying Your Credit Card Bills. Read More Before going to France, I used to pay for routine things, like my morning coffee or groceries, on my debit card and use the credit card for nonroutine expenses. But even then, I have always carried relatively few credit cards and have always tended to pay them by their due date. Still, there have been times when an unexpected vet bill or a car repair caused me to pull out one of my credit cards. In Paris, we didnt have a car, but we did bring our older dog, who wound up at the local veterinaire pretty regularly. We were able to pay for all of those unexpected bills with money that was already in our account, instead of doing the American thing and running up debt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now that Im back in the U.S., Im trying to keep that momentum going by limiting my use of credit cards and trying hard to spend the money that is coming in as we receive it. But running my own business means I can go weeksor longerwithout getting a regular paycheck. Living in Paris for a year certainly had its share of stresses, mostly because my French language skills never really advanced beyond me saying, Je parle francais un petit peu, before switching to English. But learning about a better way to manage our familys finances was definitely an unexpected benefit. Maybe even better than the good, cheap wine. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. In 1978, California voters passed Proposition 13, a radical tax cut that transformed the state and shocked the whole country. Property taxes would now be based not on the current value of a home or office, but what you paid for it, adjusted slightly, unless there is a major construction. The measure resulted in education spending cratering and wildly unequal property taxes that persist today. Long-standing property owners or their heirs often pay virtually nothing in property taxes, while new purchasers pay through the nose, even for houses on the same block. By allowing existing residents to pay lower taxes than newcomers, California effectively punishes home sales, locking in existing residents. There are a number of reasons why Californias innovative economy isnt matched by a growing, dynamic property market, and a number of reasons why the state has so much inequality, but Proposition 13 is a key factor. This tax revolt reverberated beyond the Golden State. It is widely understood to have prefigured the election of Ronald Reagan in 1980 and the rise of modern conservatism. And several other states followed suit with different tax and expenditure limits, reshaping who pays taxes and what services people receive. In other words, it was a big deal. But when the Wall Street Journal declared that we are currently in the middle of a property tax revolt, almost no one noticed. But you dont have to look too far to see its reach. States and cities around the country are questioning whether the property tax, the most important source of local tax revenue for school districts and cities around the country, is in need of serious reformor even abandonment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Election Day saw a number of property taxcutting initiatives on the ballot. Georgia adopted a Proposition 13like measure limiting annual residential property assessment increases (local governments can opt out, though). Florida revised its homestead exemption, effectively cutting property taxes for all resident homeowners. Wyoming mirrored a number of other states by passing an amendment to tax residences at different rates from commercial property. North Dakota voters considered, but ultimately rejected, repealing the property tax in its entirety and replacing local property taxes with state funding. And a number of states passed new exemptions for favored groups, like the elderly and veterans. Since the election, the Chicago City Council voted 500 against a property tax increase proposed by the citys mayor. Advertisement This is not just a 2024 phenomenon. In 2023, Texas, one of our most property taxdependent states, substantially increased its homestead exemption and passed an annual appraisal cap. Even more radically, more than 10 states have committed themselves to universal school choice, a system through which state governments provide individuals with subsidies to go to private or home schools. This system would not only make schools less public, but less local as well, as the funding base for vouchers is usually a statewide tax like the sales tax or income taxes. Advertisement Todays property tax revolt is a series of nested ironies. The first is that it is largely driven by property owners who are angry about how much their properties have increased in value. Most of the reforms are likely to make the problems of the contemporary property market worse. That is, theyre likely to make the housing market more sclerotic, make it harder for young families to afford homes, and increase inequality. But, deep in the most radical policy proposals, there is another irony. Reforms intended to achieve other goals may end up addressing a long-standing problem: the inequality of local governmental resources. Advertisement Advertisement Sources of the Property Tax Revolt The period after the pandemic saw a huge increase in demand for spacefor bigger houses and for new household formations, or people moving out of situations where they lived with roommates or parents and into their own homes. Incomes increased and many people wanted to take advantage of working from home, at least some of the time. Residential property prices far away from downtowns increased faster than property prices downtown. It has been a good time to own a home, particularly in suburbs and exurbs. But an increase in value of your home does not give you cash in hand, and property taxes are generally based on the current market value of homes. And now, when the tax bills come due, owners are mad, despite the fact that they own much more valuable assets. Many local governments have not responded to their increasingly large residential property tax bases with property tax rate cuts, or at least not big enough cuts to make the owners of these houses happy. Advertisement Advertisement While the residential boom has been biggest in suburbs and exurbs, urban residential property owners are just as mad. Commercial real estate, particularly downtown offices, has fallen in value very dramatically since COVID. As a result, frustrated homeowners will bear a higher percentage of local governments fiscal burden, at least in jurisdictions that have substantial amounts of commercial property. This is a result of the property tax system working well. At least in big jurisdictions, property taxes provide a form of insurance for property values, as I argue here, a real benefit as it is hard to insure the value of property. But homeowners do not want to pay out others insurance. Advertisement Is the Revolt Productive? At the top of anyones list of problems in the contemporary property market would be: 1) a lack of affordability, particularly for young, first-time buyers; 2) the market has become too sclerotic, with too few people putting their homes on the market and too few people being able to move; and 3) massive inequality, with those lucky enough to have bought homes seeing huge wealth gains and those renting locked out of these benefits. Advertisement Property taxes make houses more easily available for the young, as this excellent paper shows. Higher property taxes reduce sales prices, reducing the amount of cash a buyer needs upfront, but they require payments over time. That is, taxes work a lot like a mortgage, and thus help capital-constrained, first-time homebuyers. Todays tax revolt stands to make the property market work less well for first-time buyers. Advertisement It also stands to make the market more rigid. Changes like those just passed in Georgia slow the rate at which homes change hands by making new buyers and builders pay more in taxes than existing holders. This makes it harder for people to move to opportunity and punishes people for building new homes. And, just as Proposition 13 has, this will provide huge benefits to the already well-off. Increased exemptions, like weve seen in Florida and other jurisdictions, dont address systematic problems and move more of the tax burden toward commercial property, like suffering office markets and apartment buildings. Advertisement Theres that irony again. The residential property owners who benefited from the boom are angry enough to change the property tax system in ways that will harm those locked out of the system. Related From Slate One Solution to Americas Housing Crisis Might Be Found in Millions of Vacant Spare Bedrooms Read More There is a silver lining, though. The most radical property taxrelated proposals are argued for as either general anti-tax measures or as efforts to privatize schooling. Whatever you think of their intended goals, they would also have an unintended effect of ameliorating one of the worst features of the property tax: its localism. If North Dakota voters had voted for a repeal of the property tax, much of the revenue used to replace it likely would have come from state taxes. (The group formed to oppose it was called Keep it Local.) Similarly, if the state government is supporting school choice vouchers with income or sales tax revenue, that means schools as a whole rely less on local property taxes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because property taxes are mostly imposed by local governments, often very small ones, like towns or special districts, they often lead to massive inequality. Consider Connecticut, where homeowners in poor Bridgeport pay nearly twice the tax rate as those in nearby, rich Westport, and homeowners in super-rich Greenwich pay even less. The local property tax effectively punishes people for living near poorer people, as sharing a city or town with poorer people means that your tax rates are higher and your public services are less well funded, as Zach Liscow has shown. Advertisement Measures like those in North Dakota or school voucher systems arent my favorites, but their willingness to abandon the hyperlocalism of American property taxation is salutary. A good property tax revolt would lean into this spirit, seeking to limit the extent to which the property tax is assessed by small and unequally rich jurisdictions, and instead increase the taxing authority of bigger jurisdictions like counties or the state itself. Doing so would make the property market more dynamic, mitigating the tax penalty for living in economically mixed areas, and would reduce inequality. That would be the kind of revolt that one couldunironicallysupport. While this years Golden Globes were overall a bit of a dudthough not nearly as big of a dud as last yearit wasnt all bad. At least there was one good acceptance speech. Japanese actor Tadanobu Asano provided the audience a brief respite from awkward bits and rambling thank-yous when he won the award for Best Male Supporting Actor in a Television Series for his role as Kashigi Yabushige in the FX drama Shogun. The win itself wasnt surprisingafter all, the show is arguably the best television had to offer in 2024but Asanos speech was an unexpected delight. #ShogunFX star Tadanobu Asano wins the award for Best Male Supporting Actor - Television Series at the 2025 #GoldenGlobes pic.twitter.com/B25izAUe8c The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) January 6, 2025 Fellow winners like Zoe Saldana blew past their time limit in overwhelmingly emotional speeches that came across as Oscar baity performances in and of themselves, while others keep it short but boring. But when Asano stepped onstage in disbelief at his first win (and first nomination), he addressed the crowd for only 40 seconds. His first words? Wow, so maybe you dont know me, but Im an actor from Japan, and my name is Tadanobu Asano. (These words alone received above-the-head applause from fellow Globe winner Kieran Culkin.) Asano went on to briefly explain that hes currently shooting in Japan, so he planned to fly back to Tokyo that same night. Then, struck by shock and holding the Globe with both hands, he proclaimed, Wow, this is a very big present for me! He thanked the Shogun team and everybody, yelling over the crowds raucous response to his high energy. Finally, he finished by shouting: Im very happy! Thank you! Related From Slate The 10 Best TV Shows of 2024 Read More During an overwhelming night of declamations rife with weepy theatrics and dramatics, of onstage sermons rattling off lists of names no one knows, it was Asano who reminded the multitime winners how its done: Be concise, be clear, be emphatic and heartfelt. This isnt an audition room where winners are angling for their next role. No more words are needed than a very loud and impassioned Im very happy! Thank you! And indeed, those few words got the biggest applause of the night. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. Jan. 20, 2025, will mark the second inauguration of Donald Trump as president of the United States. Coincidentally, it will also mark my 20th year of teaching international law. Since many of my international politics studentsnow college juniors and seniorswere still in middle school during Trumps first inauguration, they are largely unsure of what to expect from a second Trump administration. If history is any guide, the primary target of his foreign policy ire will be not China, Russia, Mexico, or Iran, but rather the system of international law itself. Trumps reelection has forced me to tear up my international law syllabus, just as I did every semester during the first Trump administration, when virtually every subfield and topic came under direct assault. His track record affirmed that, rather than using international law as a tool to advance American interests, the Trump administration actively subverts the very system of international laws and institutions that the U.S. had largely created since World War II. Alarmingly, this is not simply a matter of changing tack on particular policiesclimate change, international trade, security, or human rightsbut instead takes a sledgehammer to the respective international institutions so that they cannot function as intended for anyone. International environmental law is the most obvious example. A priority of a second Trump administration (much like the first) is to withdraw the United States from the 2015 Paris climate accords. Rather than binding emissions reductions of its Kyoto Protocol predecessor, Paris is a flexible framework of voluntary greenhouse gas reductions to stave off climate catastrophe. Trump is now poised to take a wrecking ball to a Paris Agreement that is already fatally susceptible to an American withdrawal. But simply leaving Paris (again) is not enough: A second Trump administration is weighing the contentious process of abandoning the entire 1992 U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change, which provides the legal foundations for negotiating future international climate accords. This would effectively hamstring any subsequent administration from rejoining the rest of the world, since reratifying the FCCC would require a two-thirds majority in a deeply divided U.S. Senate, which has been unable to ratify even the shallowest international agreements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This pattern continues in the world of international trade law, which reduces the deadweight losses from tariff and nontariff barriers to facilitate international commerce. Declaring that trade wars are good and easy to win, in 2018 Trump launched ill-conceived tariffs at China. Shocking no one, it backfired: slowing growth, freezing investment, bankrupting farmers, and raising prices, amounting to one of the largest tax increases in years. It cost the U.S. economy $317 billion, and $1.7 trillion in lost stock value, while ballooning the trade deficit and gifting China permission for domestic suppression and foreign aggression. And when the World Trade Organization ruled that the tariffs were in violation of WTO lawsregulations the U.S. helped writeTrump, predictably, not only contested the ruling but undermined the institution itself by blocking the appointment of new judges, rendering the organizations binding dispute-settlement body impotent to rule on future issues. Advertisement Trumps weird obsession with tariffs may be his most consistent policy view, dating back to the 1980s. So there is no reason to doubt his promises that the belligerent trade wars of a second Trump administration will pick up where the first one left off but, as with all sequels, with bigger budgets, a wider scope, and higher stakes. Raising tariffs on imports not just from China but from Mexico and CanadaAmericas three biggest trading partnerswould smash not only American consumers, workers, manufacturers, and businesses but the institutions of international law itself. The WTOs dispute-settlement body is still broken from the first Trump administration, and its inability to deter further discriminatory trade practicesof the very kind it was built to preventfurther undermines its credibility as an organization. Furthermore, expanding the trade war to include tariffs on Canada and Mexico would effectively blow up the U.S.MexicoCanada Agreement, actually Trumps own creation, ratified in 2020, after he blew up the North American Free Trade Agreement two years prior. Advertisement Advertisement The ultimate high-stakes field of international law is arms control: an interwoven network of treaties to promote security and reduce the threat of nuclear Armageddon. The agreements and institutions brokered by generations of American leaders delivered the 80-plus-year long peace following World War IIthe most peaceful era in human history. But rather than approaching it with the seriousness it commands, the first Trump administration brought an undiplomatic, take-my-ball-and-go-home petulance in dealing with global leaders and allies. Advertisement Citing alleged Russian noncompliance of the landmark Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treatybrokered by Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev in 1987instead of doing the hard work of negotiating with Russia to expand and strengthen the treaty, in 2018 Trump instead tore it up and walked away. We have recently seen the consequences of that decision, a call then predicted to have catastrophic consequences for peace, in the form of Russias new hypersonic Oreshnik missile, which rained down upon the Ukrainian manufacturing city of Dnipro. We had a treaty that prohibited this kind of missile, and that was for good reason, said Francois Diaz-Maurin at the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists. It was because they were deemed very destabilizing. Consequently, Western arms experts now foresee a new European arms race that could last for decades and consume billions of dollars in NATO countries and Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Similarly, Trump destroyed the multilateral agreement that made it harder for Iran to develop nuclear weapons, in favor of punitive sanctionsnot because of the merits or logic of the deal, but out of spite. Trump got rid of the Iran nuclear deal because it was Barack Obamas agreement, admitted one State Department negotiator. Advertisement In response to Trumps withdrawal, Iran expanded its nuclear program and stepped up enrichment of weapons-grade uranium; the nation now constitutes a critical threat. If a second Trump administration reverts to his maximum-pressure posture, or indeed makes the sequel bigger than the original, Iran may exit the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty altogether, expel international inspectors, and take the final steps toward making a bomb. Such a decisionone Iranian hard-liners have urged for monthswould threaten the stability of the Middle East and the world. Advertisement This is to say nothing of Trumps insane undermining of American and Western intelligence by pulling out of the 1992 Open Skies Treaty, refusing to extend the New START nuclear treaty with Russia, and attempting other moves to promote a new arms race rather than limit it. This is also to say nothing of Trumps unending threats to leave NATOthe centerpiece of our countrys cooperative defense arrangementand encourage Russia to do whatever the hell they want with our closest military allies that dont meet his defense-spending expectations. In security, as with trade and climate, Trumps modus operandi is not simply to change policy directions but to destroy the very underpinnings of international alliance and cooperation themselves. Advertisement Advertisement Or consider international human rights law. Shepherded into existence by Eleanor Roosevelt, the 1948 U.N. Universal Declaration of Human Rights became the foundation for generations of subsequent treaties obligating countries to protect their citizens against discrimination, torture, and slavery and defend their freedom of religion, thought, expression, peaceful association, movement, education, health, and human dignity. None of these should seem particularly controversial for a country founded on these very principles. Yet, as Ill remind my students, so many of the policies of the first Trump administration ran afoul not only of U.S. domestic lawswhich could be reworked through executive orders and a pliant Congressbut of the nations international treaty obligations, which may be easier to evade but harder to change. Trumps travel ban discriminated against people from African and Muslim-majority countries. His policy of separating migrant children from their families violated the United States treaty obligations to provide the basic human rights of nondiscrimination, equal protection, family unity, due process, and humane treatment, codified in both the UDHR and the 1966 International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Advertisement Trumps sequel will again be bigger, wider, and higher stakes: Hes vowed not only to bring back his famous travel ban but to use the military to build enormous detention camps and enact a mass expulsion of migrants. While his largest deportation effort in American history may or may not run afoul of domestic law, it most certainly would be a heinous breach of the countrys international treaty obligations, likely bringing swift international condemnation. Likewise, his plans for active discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals will violate not just Americans civil rights and constitutional protections but also Americas treaty obligations to protect and defend human rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Similarly, in 2020following expanding International Criminal Court investigations into potential Israeli human-rights violations in Palestine and American actions in Afghanistanthe outgoing Trump administration imposed travel restrictions and asset freezes on the ICC, for the first time imposing sanctions not against a belligerent state but against an international organization. The Biden administration quickly rescinded these sanctions, but they again provide a guide for what to expect with a Trump sequel. Now that the ICC has indeed issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas militant leader Mohammed Diab Ibrahim al-Masri for war crimes and crimes against humanity, MAGA Republicans have vowed significant retaliation unless the independent court completely reverses its decision. This means not simply restoring Trumps anti-law, anti-ICC sanctions but wielding the American Service-Members Protection Act, which authorizes the president to use all military force necessary to liberate anyone held on a lawful ICC warrant, earning it the sarcastic nickname the Hague Invasion Act. In isolation, any of these moves could be debated in terms of particular policy goals, but the president-elects assault against international law extends to avowedly apolitical institutions that simply provide the background operating system to facilitate everyday politics. Advertisement Advertisement Related From Slate I Know How the Rest of the World Is Looking at Americans Right Now. I Saw It for Myself. Read More This includes the first Trump administrations pulling out of the U.N.s Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, which fosters the free flow of ideas and celebration of cultural diversity with its World Heritage sites. Or consider the worlds first intergovernmental organization: the Universal Postal Union. It was established in 1874 with the innocuous goal of standardizing postage rates so that your great-great-grandparents could put a U.S. postage stamp on a letter back to the home country and it would arrive days later. And for 145 yearswith marginal tinkering and updatingit has served the boring and uneventful task of overseeing international parcel delivery quite well. That is, until 2019, when the UPU suddenly faced the nightmare scenario of Trumps threatening to pull the U.S. out of the treaty, complaining that China was free-riding on nominally lower parcel rates than the U.S. Had Trump come through on his threat, the entire system of global parcel shipping would have ground to a halt, and U.S. postage stamps would no longer be recognized abroad. In recent weeks on social media, Trump has revived first-administration talk about not only taking over Greenland but also seizing the Panama Canal; he has even spoken of annexing Canada as the 51st state. And while politicos debate whether the once and future president is to be taken seriously or just trolling, his threats are additional data points confirming the Trumpian trend line against international law. By entertaining illegal land grabs, Trump is undermining the sanctity of national sovereigntyas enshrined in the U.N. Charterthat provides the very foundation of international relations. Waging illegal and unjust wars of aggression to achieve such neoimperial aims would further hollow out the U.N. Charter, as emboldened adversaries worldwide see that the linchpins of the entire system of modern global politicsthe preemptory norm of sovereignty equality and the inviolability of bordersare no longer constraints worth heeding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The existing system of international law and institutions is far from perfect. And Donald Trumps broadsides against the U.N., NATO, the WTO, and even the UPU do gain traction because, at the bottom of the financial ledger, the United States does shoulder a greater burden in these arrangements. But thats the cost of being the global hegemon. Being the big dog on the block isnt free, and it is naive to think it should be. The U.S. helped build these systems of international law and institutions largely in its own image, and largely to further core American values: free markets, individual liberties, and human rights. The short-term expense of maintaining such organizations pales in comparison to the costs of a world without them: a world of suffocating tariffs, runaway arms races, massive international military deployments, and the crushing financial burdens of a world uninhabitable due to climate change. That Trump is fundamentally unmoored fromand openly hostile tothese bedrock American values is undeniable from his actions. Meanwhile, his ceding Americas leadership roleto China, Europe, Russia, or anyone willing to take the reinsis actually a direct contradiction of his America First rhetoric. American leadership requires actual commitment, not pouting, petulant isolationism. The questions of why Donald Trump is more hostile toward international law than any other American president and what to do about it will be for my students to endlessly debate this semester. But the first step, establishing that he isand will beever more hostile toward international law, seems clear from any objective consideration of both his deeds and words. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. At the top of Page One of Chief Justice John Roberts Year End Report on the Federal Judiciary is a photograph of a courthousethe J. Waties Waring Judicial Center in Charleston, South Carolina. The picture is part of Roberts effort to claim the stories of heroic judges who battled Jim Crow in the civil rights era as allegories for judges facing legitimate critiques today. Modern jurists whose extreme decisions draw public rebuke, the chief justice implied, face the same misbegotten or even illegitimate backlash as the brave men and women who used their judicial authority to dismantle American apartheid. On this weeks episode of Amicus, Dahlia Lithwick was joined by 14th Amendment scholar and storied civil rights litigator Sherrilyn Ifill to discuss why some members of the federal judiciary are so fond of using this civil rightschampion cloaking mechanism to rebuff criticism of their rulings. An excerpt of their conversation, below, has been edited and condensed for clarity. Dahlia Lithwick: I wanted to talk about this cynical use of the history of the Civil Rights Movement to co-opt the notion that the current justices are very much like the brave judges who stood alone in the civil rights era and suffered the consequences. We already saw this back in November when Judge Edith Jones used a Federalist Society panel to attack law professor Steve Vladeck, while placing criticism of current Ken Paxton fave Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk on a weird level playing field with civil rightsera Judge William Wayne Justice. And now we have the chief justice of the United States embracing the same notion. Sherrilyn Ifill: It angers me, obviously, but I also often get a chuckle out of it. Because so much of what we are seeing in our profession and among conservative judges and litigators is this traumatic response to the heroism of the Civil Rights Movement and the work of civil rights lawyers and the work of the judges deciding civil rights cases. Theres a traumatic response that has resulted in this effort to cloak themselves with the heroism of that periodto suggest there is something equal about what they are doing and the courageous efforts of those who worked through huge challenges trying to make this country a true democracy during the Civil Rights Movement. It makes me chuckle because the trauma is so evident, but it also makes me angry because it is fundamentally ahistorical and untrue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his year-end report, Chief Justice Roberts cites to Judge Julius Waties Waring and then he cites to Chief Justice Earl Warren, both of whom received threats of violence against them for their civil rights decisions. I found myself deeply offended, particularly by the Waties Waring comparison. Julius Waties Waring was the scion of an old Charleston family who became a federal judge. As civil rights cases came before him, he set upon a path of trying to learn about the history of race in this country. He and his wife would read together every night. They would question each other. He was being exposed to a world he had never known. He lived in the most attractive house on the main street of Charleston and was a fixture of Charleston society. As he started to read and learn, he was also doing what judges are supposed to do in litigation, which is learn from litigation, as more and more cases come before them. He issued decisions in a number of cases that were among the most important of the civil rights cases, including his dissent in the Briggs v. Elliott case, which was the South Carolina Brown v. Board case. The court ruled against the plaintiffs, and against Thurgood Marshall in that case, but Judge Waties Warings dissent became the template for what became the majority decision in Brown v. Board of Education. As a result of his civil rights decisions, Waties Waring was subject to violent attacka bomb was thrown at his house one evening as he was home with his wife. But he was also ostracized by the society that he had been a part of. Advertisement Advertisement I emphasize this because it wasnt just that there were violent threats by racists; it was also that the society of people, of which he was a partupper class Charleston society, his colleagues within the judiciary and so forthostracized him and his wife. They were socially dead. And as a result, he and his wife moved from Charleston, South Carolina, to New York, where he lived out the rest of his life. He never returned until he was buried. Advertisement I spoke at the dedication of the courthouse to Waties Waring when the name was changed. It had been named after Ernest Hollings, the senator from South Carolina, and with Sen. Hollings consent, it was renamed to honor Waties Waring. A picture of that courthouse is included in the chief justices year-end report. This comes after Judge Edith Jones compared Kacsmaryk to Judge William Wayne Justice on that Federalist Society panel in November. Professor Vladeck had written about the one judge district in Texas where conservative lawyers are filing their cases so they can appear before Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk, and Judge Jones said, with triumph in her voice, What about Judge Justice? Civil rights litigants would try to appear before Judge Justice during the 1960s and 1970s; he was appointed by President Johnson and hes considered a champion by civil rights litigators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its no comparison to Matthew Kacsmaryk. First of all, the cases that were filed before Judge Justice were filed in a district that was associated with the very claims that were being made. It wasnt just civil rights attorneys from all over the country with claims that were not connected to Texas filing their cases in Texas. Thats whats happening with Kacsmaryk. The larger point about those civil rightsera judges, who we now think of as champions, is that they were in the small minority. Most of the other judges were abusing the system. When Thurgood Marshall first appeared before Judge Waties Waring, he said it was the first time he had ever been able to truly try his case, that he had been able to put on all his evidence, that the judge actually listened to him and didnt run over him. Thurgood Marshall said he was astonished that Judge Waties Waring allowed him to litigate his case. So it wasnt that somehow civil rights litigators were manipulating the system to appear before these judges to guarantee a win; it was that so many of the other Southern judges would not give a fair hearing to civil rights claimants. Think of the judges who turned their back on Constance Baker Motley, or who wouldnt say her namethose were the other judges in those districts. Advertisement Advertisement So for Chief Justice Roberts to make the comparison between criticism of our current judiciary and what was faced by those civil rightsera judges in his year-end reportits unfair, its a distortion of that history, and its once again an attempt to cloak oneself in the history of the Civil Rights Movement. Of course, the worst example of this is Justice Samuel Alito saying that basically Dobbs overturning Roe is like Brown overturning Plessy. You cant just snatch from this history the snippets that you want to make your point and suggest that they are equivalent, because they are not, and there are important differences that actually speak to our system. Our system is not always fair. It was not fair. And we have to be able to speak to that. Constance Baker Motley described Judge William Harold Cox as the most racist judge who ever sat on the federal bench. She wrote that recollection of litigating before him in her memoir, by which time she was a federal judge. Was she not supposed to speak? This idea that critiquing the judicial system or judicial opinions is itself corrosive of the rule of law is a kind of through-the-looking-glass, bizarro-world conception of how lawyers are supposed to engage with the justice system. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250105/us-faces-spike-in-violent-homegrown-extremism---homeland-security-chief-1121364803.html US Faces Spike in Violent 'Homegrown' Extremism - Homeland Security Chief US Faces Spike in Violent 'Homegrown' Extremism - Homeland Security Chief Sputnik International The United States has been faced with a significant increase in violent extremism and a persistent threat of "homegrown" terrorism for the past 10 years, US Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas said on Sunday. 2025-01-05T21:59+0000 2025-01-05T21:59+0000 2025-01-06T04:00+0000 americas alejandro mayorkas new orleans homeland security department of homeland security (dhs) trump international hotel texas terrorism us terrorism https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/01/01/1121327488_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_d12ad3721dc13f9b60bf15adc5af2213.jpg "We have not only the persistent threat of foreign terrorism - that, of course, created the Department of Homeland Security - but we have adverse nation-states, and for the past 10 years, we've seen a significant increase in what we term 'homegrown violent extremism,'" Mayorkas said in an interview with ABC News. The country has "a very difficult threat landscape" at the moment, which means that not only federal and local officials, but the residents as well need to be aware of it and take precautions to prevent violence, the Homeland Security chief added. In the early hours of January 1, a truck rammed into a crowd of people amid New Year's celebrations in New Orleans in the US, killing 14 people. The driver, later identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old US-born Army veteran from Texas, was killed in a shootout with police officers. The FBI recovered a flag of the Islamic State terrorist group (IS, banned in Russia) from the back of his vehicle. Later in the same day, a Tesla Cybertuck exploded near the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, killing the driver and injuring seven others. The driver of the car who is suspected of having exploded it was identified as Matthew Livelsberger, a 37-year-old US Army soldier. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250102/ex-cia-analyst-doesnt-buy-fbis-ny-day-terror-narrative-highlights-potential-ukrainian-intel-trace-1121339673.html americas new orleans texas Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International us new year terrorist attacks, nola terrorist attack, new orleans isis attack, isis in the us, terrorism threat in the us, cybertruck explosion https://sputnikglobe.com/20250106/austrian-president-gives-mandate-to-right-wing-fpo-party-to-launch-coalition-talks-1121369706.html Austrian President Gives Mandate to Right-Wing FPO Party to Launch Coalition Talks Austrian President Gives Mandate to Right-Wing FPO Party to Launch Coalition Talks Sputnik International Austrian President Alexander van der Bellen said on Monday that he had given the mandate to Herbert Kickl, the leader of the right-wing Freedom Party of Austria (FPO), to negotiate a coalition with other parties in order to form a government. 2025-01-06T13:27+0000 2025-01-06T13:27+0000 2025-01-06T13:27+0000 world europe austrian people's party (ovp) freedom party of austria (fpo) herbert kickl austria right-wing parties right-wing politics https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/09/1d/1120345120_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_ad4fdb8bab302fcd7a1cd3265d08a983.jpg "Kickl is confident that he can find viable solutions through government negotiations and expressed willingness to take on this responsibility. I asked him about this directly. Therefore, I instructed him to begin negotiations on the formation of a federal government with the Austrian Peoples Party [OVP]," van der Bellen said in a statement broadcast on YouTube. Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer said on Saturday that he would step down as chancellor and also leave his post as head of the OVP after coalition talks failed. The FPO won the general election on September 29 with about 29% of votes but the president gave a mandate to form a government to Nehammer as both OVP and Social Democrats refused to cooperate with the winner. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241117/constructive-cooperation-with-russia-essential-for-european-countries---german-analyst-1120909836.html austria Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International austrian politics, austria right-wing, right-wing turn in austria, austrian political landscape, right-wing turn in europe, kickl austria https://sputnikglobe.com/20250106/close-to-ukraines-industrial-heart-why-does-russias-liberation-of-kurakhovo-matter-1121370358.html Close to Ukraines Industrial Heart: Why Does Russias Liberation of Kurakhovo Matter? Close to Ukraines Industrial Heart: Why Does Russias Liberation of Kurakhovo Matter? Sputnik International The Russian Defense Ministry said that as a result of the professional actions of the Russian units during the liberation of Kurakhovo, the enemy lost more than 12,000 troops. 2025-01-06T14:38+0000 2025-01-06T14:38+0000 2025-01-06T14:38+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine russia ukraine special operation troops forces liberation logistics weapons tanks https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/01/06/1121370195_0:109:3256:1941_1920x0_80_0_0_8ab1a2f905b7cf3adefd2667798f2a3b.jpg Why does Russias liberation of Kurakhovo matter? The liberation of Kurakhovo adds greatly to Russian troops advance on western front lines, political and military analyst Sergey Poletaev told Sputnik. On January 6, the Russian military fully freed the strategic city of Kurakhovo in the Donetsk Peoples Republic, Russias Ministry of Defense stated, dubbing the city the largest settlement in southwest Donbass. What does it mean for Russian forces? Logistics: The capture of Kurakhovo will significantly complicate logistical support for the Ukrainian military in the DPR and will deprive Kiev forces of the ability to shell the regional capital Donetsk. Poletaev pointed out that it reflects very serious problems in the Ukrainian Armed Forces, which will only worsen in the near future. Tactics: Following the takeover of Kurakhovo, a powerful fortified area with a developed network of firing positions and underground communications, Russian assault units will have significant room to maneuver, which will in turn increase the pace of liberation of the DPR territory.Resources: Poletaev said that the seizure of Kurakhovo clears the way for Russian troops to advance on the Dnepropetrovsk region, described by US media as Ukraines industrial heart. There are many industrial enterprises in the region related to the military-industrial complex, including the Pavlograd Chemical Plant, which produces explosives, and Yuzhmash, which deals with rocket technologies. Political image: I am sure that Kiev held on to Kurakhovo because of [Donald] Trump's upcoming inauguration, so as not to lose face and use the city as a bargaining chip in possible peace talks with Moscow, Poletaev said. Volodymyr Zelensky will face reputational risks as everyone will now point to Kurakhovo as a sign of Ukrainian forces weakness, the analyst concluded. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250106/russian-armed-forces-liberate-key-city-of-kurakhovo-in-dpr---ministry-of-defense-1121366361.html russia ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg russia's liberation of kurakhovo, russian special military operation, western front lines, ukrainian forces, russian troops https://sputnikglobe.com/20250106/nearly-50-people-killed-in-gaza-strip-due-to-israeli-strikes-in-past-day---health-ministry-1121370035.html Nearly 50 People Killed in Gaza Strip Due to Israeli Strikes in Past Day - Health Ministry Nearly 50 People Killed in Gaza Strip Due to Israeli Strikes in Past Day - Health Ministry Sputnik International At least 49 people have been killed, and 75 injured in Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip over the past day, the Gaza Strip's health ministry said on Monday. 2025-01-06T13:37+0000 2025-01-06T13:37+0000 2025-01-06T13:37+0000 world middle east israeli-palestinian conflict palestine-israel conflict israel-gaza conflict israel defense forces (idf) israel hamas https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/01/03/1121343123_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_b9620983d5dac7d9f3aa353d1019b957.jpg "Over the last 24 hours, the Israeli occupation carried out three mass killings of families in the Gaza Strip. Hospitals received 49 fatalities and 75 injured individuals," the statement read. Overall, since the escalation of the conflict in October 2023, the death toll in the Gaza Strip has risen to 45,854, with more than 109,000 people wounded, the ministry added. On October 7, 2023, Israel was subjected to an unprecedented rocket attack from the Gaza Strip. In addition, fighters of Palestinian movement Hamas infiltrated the border areas, opened fire on the military and civilians and took hostages. Israeli authorities say that about 1,200 people were killed during the raid. In response, the Israel Defense Forces launched Operation Iron Swords in Gaza and announced a complete blockade of the enclave. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250102/year-of-turmoil-how-2024-will-be-remembered-in-the-middle-east-1121258366.html israel Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International mideast crisis, mideast conflict, israel-hamas row, palestine-israel conflict, israel war mideast, israel gaza violence, gaza strip crisis https://sputnikglobe.com/20250106/new-syrian-authorities-demand-kurdish-fighters-lay-down-arms-1121367721.html New Syrian Authorities Demand Kurdish Fighters Lay Down Arms New Syrian Authorities Demand Kurdish Fighters Lay Down Arms Sputnik International The interim Syrian government held talks with representatives of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), demanding that they disarm, Turkish newspaper Hurriyet reported on Monday, citing unnamed sources. 2025-01-06T08:43+0000 2025-01-06T08:43+0000 2025-01-06T08:43+0000 world middle east turmoil in syria syria https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/102811/41/1028114193_0:0:2947:1657_1920x0_80_0_0_e137b3c436bde1578e1c54bf5b7989cb.jpg Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan previously stated that Turkiye would not accept members of the PKK, designated terrorist by Ankara, as legitimmate representatives of Syrian Kurds. Meanwhile, PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan, currently serving a life sentence on Turkiye's Imrali Island, during a meeting with members of pro-Kurdish DEM party last week expressed his willingness to take a "positive step" toward resolving the Kurdish issue in the country. Two meetings have taken place between the new Syrian authorities and representatives of the PKK, who reportedly sought recognition as a division or corps within the official Syrian army in exchange for disarmament. The new Syrian authorities did not accept any conditions, the Turkish newspaper said. Turkiye's conflict with the PKK started in 1984 and resumed in 2015. Turkiye launched operations Olive Branch and Peace Spring in Syria in 2018 and 2019, and Operation Claw-Lock in Iraq in 2022 despite protests from Damascus and Baghdad. Ankara insisted that the operations were aimed at protecting its borders from security threats posed by Kurdish militia. Syria's armed opposition captured Damascus on December 8. Syrian President Bashar Assad stepped down after negotiations with participants in the Syrian conflict and left Syria for Russia, where he was granted asylum, the Russian Foreign Ministry said. Mohammed al-Bashir, who ran an Idlib-based administration formed by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and other opposition groups, was named interim prime minister on December 10. He announced that an interim government had been formed and would remain in place until March 2025. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250103/whats-in-store-for-syria-in-2025-1121274446.html syria Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International turmoil in syria, crisis in syria, kurdistan workers party, syria political conflict, turkiye involvement in syria, turkish ties syria, kurds vs syria https://sputnikglobe.com/20250106/pfizergate-what-is-ec-chief-von-der-leyen-accused-of-1121367442.html Pfizergate: What is EC Chief Von Der Leyen Accused of? Pfizergate: What is EC Chief Von Der Leyen Accused of? Sputnik International The New York Times earlier described the European Commission Presidents COVID vaccine deal with the Pfizer CEO as "a striking alignment of political survival and corporate hustle." 2025-01-06T08:19+0000 2025-01-06T08:19+0000 2025-01-06T08:19+0000 world belgium european commission ursula von der leyen pfizer coronavirus https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/01/06/1121366953_0:0:3072:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_40d31a9d8ff6b5f76dc361fbefff8c56.jpg A court in Liege, Belgium, is due to consider whether European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has legal immunity against corruption charges related to her murky involvement in the purchase of coronavirus vaccines. What is the scandal all about? Sputnik explores.Negotiations on the deal were conducted informally in late 2020 via SMS messages and without prior consent of EU member states.The European Commission President also texted her husband, Heiko von der Leyen, who serves as the medical director at Orgenesis, a company that collaborates with Pfizer. All the messages were then accidentally deleted, Ursula von der Leyen claimed.The first hearing on his complaint was held on 17 May 2024, when the Liege court confirmed that the so-called Pfizegate case is in line with its jurisdiction and should not be handed to the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO), created on the initiative of von der Leyen herself, due to an obvious conflict of interests.The second hearing slated for December 5 was actually disrupted due to a demarche by the EPPO, which sent a counter-request to the court for von der Leyen's immunity. The EPPO argues that von der Leyen has immunity from prosecution for corruption.European Commission spokesperson Stefan de Keersmaecker said on January 5 that von der Leyen had canceled all "external engagements" in the coming days after contracting "severe pneumonia." https://sputnikglobe.com/20230120/pfizer-ceo-grilled-on-ineffective-covid-19-vaccine-at-davos-summit-1106528666.html belgium Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg court in liege, pfizergate case against ursula von der leyen, von der leyen's murky involvement in the purchase of coronavirus vaccines, covid vaccine deal between pfizer ceo and european commission president https://sputnikglobe.com/20250106/reform-uk-leader-farage-disagrees-with-musks-urge-to-cede-party-leadership-1121364676.html Reform UK Leader Farage Disagrees With Musk's Urge to Cede Party Leadership Reform UK Leader Farage Disagrees With Musk's Urge to Cede Party Leadership Sputnik International The head of the British right-wing populist party Reform UK, Nigel Farage, disagreed the words of the US entrepreneur Elon Musk that the party needed to remove him from the post of leader. 2025-01-06T02:43+0000 2025-01-06T02:43+0000 2025-01-06T03:43+0000 world nigel farage elon musk tommy robinson united kingdom (uk) right-wing parties x (formerly twitter) https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/07/18/1112105883_0:317:3072:2045_1920x0_80_0_0_ac84c6e4530505005ce4e3f20a2dfc13.jpg Earlier, Musk, who called for a vote for Reform UK, said that the party needed to replace its leader Farage. As the British newspaper Telegraph pointed out, Musk and Farage disagreed about the founder of the far-right organization English Defense League Tommy Robinson, whom Musk praised on his social network, while Farage said that Robinson was "not the one we need." "Well, this is a surprise! Elon is a remarkable individual but on this I am afraid I disagree. My view remains that Tommy Robinson is not right for Reform and I never sell out my principles," Farage said on X in response to Musk's post. Following the elections held in July, Labour won an absolute majority (402 seats) in parliament, while Reform UK won only five seats. At the same time, Farage's party took third place in the number of votes, gaining 14.3%. In terms of the percentage of votes cast, it took second place in 98 constituencies, 89 of which were won by Labour. Such a gap between the votes cast and the number of parliamentary mandates is explained by the electoral system in force in the country, in which the candidate who receives the maximum number of votes in his constituency gets into parliament. This is not the first time Musk has called for voting for a right-wing party he previously wrote in an article for the German newspaper Welt that the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) party was the only political force in Germany capable of saving the country from becoming a "shadow of its former self." The publication of this article sparked heated debates both in the Welt editorial office and in Germany as a whole. Welt's head of opinion Eva Marie Kogel resigned after the article was published, and Friedrich Merz, a candidate for chancellor of Germany from the opposition bloc of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Christian Social Union (CSU), called the article an unprecedented interference in the German elections. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240705/anti-establishment-surge-in-uk-election-driven-by-pro-palestine-anti-immigration-sentiment-1119256652.html united kingdom (uk) Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International nigel farage and elon musk, musk endorses farage, reform uk popularity, musk supports reform uk, musk against nigel farage https://sputnikglobe.com/20250106/russian-air-defense-downs-12-ukrainian-drones-overnight-1121365954.html Russian Air Defense Downs 12 Ukrainian Drones Overnight Russian Air Defense Downs 12 Ukrainian Drones Overnight Sputnik International Russian air defense systems destroyed 12 Ukrainian drones over the Kursk, Belgorod, Bryansk regions and Crimea on Monday night, the Russian Defense Ministry said. 2025-01-06T05:28+0000 2025-01-06T05:28+0000 2025-01-06T05:34+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine russian defense ministry bryansk crimea kursk ukrainian drone attacks on russia ukrainian crisis https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/0a/04/1113929892_0:189:2970:1860_1920x0_80_0_0_899e5c29b4a22d171d3f551638c3b356.jpg "Over the past night, air defense systems on duty intercepted and destroyed 12 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles: seven UAVs over the Kursk region, two UAVs each over the Belgorod and Bryansk regions, and one UAV over the territory of the Republic of Crimea," the statement says.Ukraine has been sending drones and missiles into Russia almost daily since it launched its counteroffensive attempt in early June 2023. The United Nations said in August last year, following a botched drone strike on Moscow, that it did not want to see any targeting of civilian infrastructure. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250102/russian-air-defense-shoots-down-ukrainian-fighter-jet-1121333957.html bryansk crimea Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International ukraine terrorism, ukraine drone attacks on russia, drone wars, drone warfare, drone terrorism, ukraine attacks with drones https://sputnikglobe.com/20250106/south-korea-convenes-security-council-over-norths-launch-of-ballistic-missile-1121368688.html South Korea Convenes Security Council Over North's Launch of Ballistic Missile South Korea Convenes Security Council Over North's Launch of Ballistic Missile Sputnik International South Korea convened its security council on Monday over what its military believes could have been a hypersonic missile launched by North Korea earlier in the day, South Korean media reported, citing authorities. 2025-01-06T10:55+0000 2025-01-06T10:55+0000 2025-01-06T10:55+0000 military north korea south korea japan asian version of nato ballistic missiles https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/01/06/1121365732_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_eb1b6d82ad333e848dc60b30007dd362.jpg Earlier in the day, South Korean and Japanese media reported that North Korea fired an intermediate-range ballistic missile toward the Sea of Japan. The projectile flew some 1,100 kilometers (683 miles) before falling outside Japan's exclusive economic zone. South Korea's National Security Office held a meeting to exchange information about the current situation and discuss possible further response measures, while the government continues to "closely monitor North Korea's actions and maintain firm readiness to respond to any provocations," the presidential office said in a statement quoted by Yonhap. The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said, in turn, that Pyongyang could have launched a hypersonic missile, as it was similar to the North Korean intermediate-range missiles equipped with hypersonic warheads launched last January and last April, despite having a shorter range, Yonhap reported. In late 2024, North Korea said that it would use the "toughest" strategy to counter the United States, adding that that military cooperation between South Korea, the US and Japan had become an "aggressive military alliance."Russian officials repeatedly stressed that it is the US military activities in the Asia-Pacific that are responsible for worsening the security situation in the region. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241231/russia-china-and-north-korea-refuse-to-bow-to-western-pressure-1121239116.html north korea south korea japan Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International asian version of nato, north korea deterrence, north korea launch, north korea military, north korea self-defense, north korea ballistic missile https://sputnikglobe.com/20250106/trumps-january-6-clemency-pledge-what-to-expect-1121369072.html Trumps January 6 Clemency Pledge: What to Expect? Trumps January 6 Clemency Pledge: What to Expect? Sputnik International Back in March, Trump wrote on his Truth Social account that one of his first acts as the US president would be to free the January 6 Hostages being wrongfully imprisoned. 2025-01-06T12:15+0000 2025-01-06T12:15+0000 2025-01-06T12:15+0000 americas us donald trump joe biden police victory prison political opponents https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/01/06/1121368779_0:264:2491:1665_1920x0_80_0_0_3dc9d681b74fdfd06553382600d0d5c9.jpg Expectations are high for President-elect Donald Trump to deliver on his promise to swiftly hand out pardons to those involved in the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot, Bloomberg reported."Any early action on Jan. 6 pardons would set the tone for how he [Trump] might wield the presidency to reward loyalists and punish opponents," the agency pointed out.GOP Member Urges Release of All Jan.6 RiotersThe report comes as Republican Marjorie Taylor Greene said that she was lobbying Trump to pardon everyone who took part in the siege, saying that "many of these people have been in prison since 2021.""Even the ones that fought the Capitol Police and caused damage to the Capitol, I think theyve served their time, and I think they should all be pardoned and released from prison. [] I think its an injustice. Its a two-tiered justice system, and its time to end it," she added.What Did Trump PledgeTrump earlier told US media that he would "most likely" issue pardons to rioters within "the first hour" or even in the "first nine minutes" of his presidency, which kicks off on January 20.What Was Fallout From Capitol Riot?Thousands of people gathered to attack the Capitol building in Washington on January 6, 2021, to disrupt the certification of Joe Bidens 2020 electoral victory, egged on by Trumps claims of electoral fraud. Five people, including one police officer, died as a result of the attack. More than 140 police officers were injured.More than 1,570 people have pleaded guilty or been convicted after trials in connection with the attack, per the US attorneys office in Washington. At least 645 were sentenced to prison time, with terms ranging from a few days to 22 years. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230713/fbi-chief-pushes-back-on-claims-agency-was-involved-in-capitol-riot-1111844449.html americas Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg january 6, 2021 capitol riot, electoral fraud, joe bidens 2020 electoral victory, donald trump's pledge to pardon january 6 rioters https://sputnikglobe.com/20250106/ukraine-loses-up-to-485-soldiers-in-kursk-region-over-past-day-1121369300.html Ukraine Loses Up to 485 Soldiers in Kursk Region Over Past Day Ukraine Loses Up to 485 Soldiers in Kursk Region Over Past Day Sputnik International Ukrainian forces lost up to 485 soldiers and 10 tanks in and around Russia's Kursk Region over the past day, the Russian Ministry of Defense said on Monday. 2025-01-06T11:30+0000 2025-01-06T11:30+0000 2025-01-06T11:30+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine russian defense ministry russian army russian armed forces ukraine ukrainian crisis kursk https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/08/10/1119787516_0:30:3362:1921_1920x0_80_0_0_1e26ebe0c3d0464447b45ffc7aed9472.jpg "Over the past day, Ukrainian losses in the Kursk region amounted to up to 485 servicemen. Ten tanks, seven infantry fighting vehicles, five armored personnel carriers, 39 combat armored vehicles, one mine-clearing vehicle, 11 automobiles, one artillery piece, seven mortars, and one electronic warfare station were destroyed. Four Ukrainian soldiers surrendered," the ministry stated. Ukraine's total losses in the Kursk region since the start of hostilities amount to approximately 49,500 fighters, 283 tanks, and 216 infantry fighting vehicles, the ministry added. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250106/russian-armed-forces-liberate-key-city-of-kurakhovo-in-dpr---ministry-of-defense-1121366361.html ukraine kursk Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russia's special operation, ukraine crisis, ukraine conflict, ukraine kursk attack, ukraine kursk incursion, ukraine conflict kursk This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Amazon's first day back in the office felt like any other Thursday. Which is to say, none too busy in downtown Seattle. In Seattle's South Lake Union and Denny Triangle neighborhoodshome to Amazon's largest corporate campus with more than 50,000 employeesbundled-up Amazonians trickled into office towers throughout the morning and streamed out at lunchtime to visit food trucks. Lines formed but didn't fill the sidewalks. The neighborhood was still quiet after the New Year's holiday. Though a seemingly normal day on the outside, Thursday marked a big change for Amazon employees. They will now be expected to work from the office five days a week, an increase from the three-day mandate Amazon has had in place since May 2023. The new requirement makes Amazon one of the strictest companies in the region and among its tech rivals when it comes to in-person work. Amazon leadership has argued that in-person work allows employees to better collaborate, learn and innovate, and that the past year and a half of a partial in-person mandate has solidified that conviction. But some employees have pushed back on the requirement, asking the company through petitions and letters to restore the flexibility of remote work. Some workers have quit while others say they are starting to look for new jobs. In Seattle, business groups are hopeful Amazon's increased return will spur a revitalization of the business corridor that has struggled to regain its pre-pandemic vibrancy without office workers. At King Leroy, a restaurant and bar housed in Amazon's Doppler tower in Denny Triangle, general manager Nik Taylor said he's considering staffing up to meet the new demand from Amazon employees. Because of its location, King Leroy is unusual, Taylor said. "I've never worked at a place that depended on people coming back to the office." Taylor estimated up to 90% of the restaurant's lunch regulars are Amazon employees, and he expects to see an uptick in business as those regulars bring in the rest of their team. Right now, King Leroy makes most of its money during the dinner hour, Taylor said. But with Amazon's return, the lunch rush could become the breadwinner. "Everything has been going up exponentially every year since we opened in 2022," he said. "Sales, foot traffic it continues to grow." In November, downtown Seattle saw an average of 91,000 workers per weekday, according to data from the Downtown Seattle Association, a trade organization representing businesses in the area. That's up 5% from November 2023, but just 56% of November 2019's average, before the pandemic sent most workers home. "Downtown's largest employer bringing people back more frequently is a home run for downtown," said Jon Scholes, president and CEO of the Downtown Seattle Association. "Other employers may take notice and make similar moves, and downtown is ready for their return." David Gurry, an office broker with real estate firm Kidder Mathews, similarly said Amazon's decisiveness has inspired other businesses to solidify their own return-to-office plans. After years of business owners being reluctant to sign a lease because they didn't know how much space they would need to accommodate a hybrid workforce, Gurry said he's starting to see transactions cross the finish line. "It's been four years of people scratching their heads and not knowing what they need," Gurry said. "Now business owners are ready to draw the line in the sand. They know who's coming in and when." A lot of times, what they need is less office space, Gurry said, estimating that downtown Seattle's office vacancy rate would grow from 30% to 40% over the next year and a half. But he was optimistic the vacancies would fill up because high supply meant tenants could secure a good deal. In Seattle, office building visits in 2024 were highest on Wednesdays, according to data from Placer.ai and provided by Kidder Mathews. Tuesday claimed the second-highest number of visits, with Monday trailing in third, ahead of Thursday and Friday. Leah Masson, a senior director at commercial real estate firm Cushman & Wakefield, said she expects South Lake Union will experience some "recovery pains," like traffic jams and long coffee lines. But she's happy to spend more time waiting. She sees it as a sign the neighborhoods are coming back to life. On Thursday, an Amazon employee outside of the Spheres, said they also expected the return to be an adjustment and a "learning curve." But that employee, a 15-year Amazon veteran who asked to remain anonymous to protect their job, said the company had already made one adjustment at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and could do so again. "I understand why the company wants it. I have seen the benefits of (RTO), of in-person collaboration," the employee said. "But I know it's hard for some people. I see both sides of the coin." Amazon said Thursday that teams across the company are working to make sure the return to office is smooth. Another Amazon employee, a software engineer who started in 2021 and also asked to remain anonymous, wasn't as optimistic. They plan to start searching for new jobs as a result of the in-person requirement. The worker was in "disbelief" when they heard Amazon's new plans, and now they're seeing other companies promote hybrid jobs. The employee pointed to Spotify, which said recently that it would maintain its remote work policy and thought of in-person requirements as treating employees like children. "It just really limits the flexibility," the Amazon employee said of the company's new mandate. "The five-day announcement felt surreal." There's still uncertainty about how the new policy will be enforced and whether the company will require workers to be in the office for a minimum number of hours each day. When announcing the change in September, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy told employees the expectation going forward "is that people will be in the office outside of extenuating circumstances." In December, Amazon delayed the return for workers in at least seven cities around the country as it prepared its offices for the surge in traffic. Seattle, Bellevue and Redmond, which Amazon considers its primary headquarters, do not appear to be affected by the delay. 2025 The Seattle Times. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: SpaceX has transformed the cost of space launches. Credit: NASA Data centers are the backbone of our digital infrastructure, supporting everything from social media platforms to online shopping and streaming services. With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing and the internet of things, the amount of data generated and processed daily is extremely large, and the demand for data centers is constantly growing. Data centers, unfortunately, are massively energy hungryamong a host of other environmental drawbacks. One possible solution is to build them in space, and several companies are working on making this a reality. So how would this work, and is it really going to happen? Worldwide data center demand is expected to rise at around 20% a year over the next few years. In the UK alone, Google, Microsoft and various other US companies are collectively spending 20 billion to ramp up data-center capacity for AI up and down the country. Yet data centers built for high-performance computing and AI require much more power than a standard facility. This generates a lot more heat, which entails a further substantial increase in power demands for liquid cooling facilities. According to the International Energy Agency, data centers accounted for about 1% to 1.5% of global energy use in 2023, and this figure is expected to rise significantly in the years ahead. Additionally, cooling systems can exacerbate water shortages in some regions, while the growing e-waste generated from outdated equipment is also a big problem. To try and address the energy issue, data-center firms have been investing in renewable energy sources like wind, solar and nuclear to reduce their carbon emissions. They're also using advanced cooling technologies to make their data centers more energy efficient. Even so, it's still going to be a major challenge to roll out enough capacity. Data centers require substantial physical space and infrastructure, making expansion both difficult and costly. A new frontier? This is why US companies like Lumen Orbit and the EU's Ascend project are looking to space instead. Data centers beyond Earth's atmosphere would have access to continuous solar energy and could be naturally cooled by the vacuum of space. Away from terrestrial issues like planning permission, such facilities could be rapidly deployed and expanded as the demand for more data keeps increasing. It may sound like something from a sci-fi novel, but this concept has been gaining more attention as space technology has advanced and the need for sustainable and scalable data centers has become apparent. Lumen, which is based in Washington, recently raised US$11 million (8.9 million) in seed funding that will be used to build a full-scale prototype in 2025. This facility will be geared towards taking huge amounts of raw data from other satellites, then using AI to crunch it down for transmission to Earth, taking up much less bandwidth than would otherwise be required. Meanwhile, Ascend completed an 18-month study last summer that found that space data centers are economically viable and environmentally feasible, provided the carbon emissions from launchers can be reduced by about tenfold. Backed by French defense giant Thales, it aims to launch a gigawatt of capacity into space over the next 25 years. As with all too-good-to-be-true ideas, we should certainly be in no doubt about the challenges involved in these kinds of projects. It's still hugely expensive to launch payloads into orbit, even if companies like Elon Musk's SpaceX have been making significant steps in reducing the cost and increasing the reliability of space launches. This may greatly limit how quickly space data centers could be launched. There's also the fact that the latency in communication between Earth and space affects data transmission speeds. Another Musk company, Starlink, has been making inroads into this issue with its burgeoning satellite network, which Musk claims will be as fast as fiber broadband in the years ahead. Maintaining space data centers poses a major challenge. Space weather, such as solar flares, could disrupt operations, while collisions with debris are a major worryrather than offsetting the fact that space-based data centers don't have to fear earthquakes or floods. Advanced shielding could protect against things like radiation and micrometeoroids, but it will probably only do so muchparticularly as Earth's orbit becomes ever more crowded. To fix damaged facilities, advances in robotics and automation will of course help, but remote maintenance may not be able to address all issues. Sending repair crews remains a very complex and costly affair, and though the falling cost of space launches will again help here, it is still likely to be a huge burden for a few decades to come. In addition, disposing of data center waste takes on a whole new level of complexity off-planet. So while there is certainly great excitement around this potential answer to our need for ever more data centers, it's clearly as complex as it is compelling. Hopefully, with serious effort into research and developmentas well as global collaborationthis will eventually revolutionize the way we manage and process data. Until then, with apologies, we'll just have to watch this space. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Radar images reveal airborne debris movement, aiding emergency response efforts. Credit: Rachel Green/ORNL, U.S. Dept. of Energy Researchers at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory are using non-weather data from the nationwide weather radar network to understand how to track non-meteorological events moving through the air for better emergency response. Weather reports on the news show colorful, near-time representations of clouds and precipitation moving over an area. A network of Doppler radars distributed across the country sends energy pulses into the air to provide information that can be interpreted by algorithms, delivering critical information about rain, sleet and other types of weather. Among the information gathered from the radar pulses is data that is typically filtered out but could be valuable for non-weather research, such as tracking items moving through the air, like smoke, ash or debris. "Precipitation shows up as spheres on a Doppler radar," said Erik Kabela, a meteorologist supporting national security sciences at ORNL. "In the dataset, spheres have a value of one. Anything else detected by the radar in the air shows up as an elongated item and has a value of less than one. In this way, we can remove the precipitation entries, those coded as one and use the remaining data to see what was in the air, what direction it went, and what happened to it as it traveled over a distance." Kabela and his team looked at news events over the past decades to identify date, time and location of non-weather events that caused debris to rise into the air. Among the events they selected were the BP oil rig explosion in the Gulf of Mexico, the SpaceX Starship explosion in Texas, and the aftermath of the Oklahoma City bombing. Going back in time to see how this data showed up on radars, the ORNL team graphed debris rising into the air and moving over a distance. The results were published in the Journal of Emergency Management. Kabela is interested in adapting the outcome of this research for emergency responders. "Non-weather data could tip off authorities before other types of indications are used. For responders already in the field, this data could tell them where a debris cloud is moving and provide indications of safe places to set up their operating station." Mike Benson, an ORNL mechanical engineer supporting nuclear nonproliferation, said weathersomething people typically check dailyprovides a readily available dataset for other uses. "A tremendous resource exists with data that was filtered out for the intended purpose but actually is really useful for other applications. It's a network capability in our country that's well distributed." Benson said the next step is to develop a machine learning algorithm to automatically detect a cloud of debris and notify a person in real-time. "The algorithm could detect emergency events in rural areas that haven't been noticed yet by a person. The earlier an event can be detected, the faster services are deployed to mitigate impacts," he said. Another use for this data is to aid in nuclear forensics investigations, a project ORNL's David Hooper has spent the last 15 years supporting. "If an investigation were to happen, technicians would go into the field to collect samples," said Hooper, an incident modeling and computation engineer. "Weather radars could detect a plume to tell us how much debris is in the air and where it's moving. This would help with tracking the data and providing safer information for the field technicians." Hooper's team develops software with fallout modeling details specific to the U.S. government's needs. Radar data can improve the model used to predict the impacts of fallout. During a forensics situation, the radar data would track a rising cloud and give better estimates of where the winds are carrying it, how sheer layers are affecting the cloud and possibly tracking the debris as it is coming down to the ground. "This would mean dealing less with a predictive model and more with a physical measurement, which for mission planning is always preferable," Hooper said. More information: Michael J. Benson et al, Weather radar utility in hazard detection and response, Journal of Emergency Management (2024). DOI: 10.5055/jem.0868 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: Eugene Smotkin, professor of chemistry and chemical biology, is a resident of Puerto Rico and has experienced first-hand the territorys unreliable energy grid. Credit: Matthew Modoono/Northeastern University Northeastern University chemistry professor Eugene Smotkin was in his home in the Puerto Rican residential district of Old San Juan when he, like more than a million other residents on the island, lost power on New Year's Eve. He and his wife first noticed the power went out when the ceiling fan above their bed stopped. Smotkin considers himself among the more fortunatehis power was restored later that afternoon. Other less tourist-centric areas were hit harder by the outage and it caused headaches for many preparing for celebrations. "This became a mess for Puerto Ricans in general," he says. "We didn't know if we were going to have power on New Year's Day." Nearly all residents have had their power restored, according to Luma Energy, the private Canadian power company that manages and operates the territory's electrical grid. Rolling blackouts will likely occur as the system is fully brought back online. Blackout not an anomaly But Tuesday's blackout was not an anomaly as Puerto Rico has been plagued by power outage issues for years, explains Smotkin, who specializes in studying materials used for clean energy and was featured in an award-winning Northeastern Films documentary on bringing renewable energy sources to Puerto Rico. "We've had a power failure every week for the past few months," Smotkin says, highlighting that much of the territory's electrical grid equipment is more than 40 years old and continues to be crippled by storms like Hurricane Maria in 2017 and Hurricane Ernie in 2024. "As a result, the grid remains highly vulnerable, with power failures occurring frequentlyeven in San Juan, the capital city," he says. While the cause of the most recent outage is still under investigation, Luma officials say preliminary findings suggest that a faulty underground electric line located in the south of the island may be to blame, according to the Associated Press. Smotkin says many of Puerto Rico's electrical issues come down to its place in the eyes of the United States. Perception on the US mainland "We need to modify the perception of what Puerto Rico is among U.S. citizens," Smotkin says. "It is an unincorporated territory, and there's huge misperception among the U.S. citizens about who we are and what the status of Puerto Rico is." Laura Kuhl, a Northeastern professor of public policy and urban affairs and international affairs, has spent much of her career studying Puerto Rico's climate and energy infrastructure. She echoes Smotkin's sentiment. "One of my big picture takeaways coming out of this power outage is that it's impossible to understand anything about energy policy in Puerto Rico without acknowledging how much of its colonial relationship impacts all decision-making and all aspects of daily life," she says. Puerto Ricowhich has been in a significant debt crisis for yearsdoes not have the legal options that states or municipalities have to file for bankruptcy or restructure debt to manage public utilities, she adds. Instead, Puerto Rico has the Financial Oversight & Management Board, a federal body composed of outside authoritiesnot elected by residents of the territorythat is charged with approving Puerto Rico's budget. For years, because of Puerto Rico's high poverty rates and non-revenue-generating electrical service, the territory was unable to afford maintenance of the grid, Kuhl explains. Decision to privatize the grid After Hurricane Maria devastated the territory in 2017, a decision was made to privatize the electrical grid in hopes of improving services. In 2021, Luma Energy was hired for the job, but the grid continues to be unreliable. "The hope was that this would generate more economic efficiencies in the running of the grid, but that has not been what Puerto Ricans have experienced. Outages continue to be very common," Kuhl says. Puerto Rico's electrical grid is a very centralized top-down system, Kuhl says, making it particularly vulnerable if even one part of the system goes down. Add this on top of years of a lack of investment to properly maintain the grid, and frequent power outages are not surprising. "In contrast, if Puerto Rico had, for example, a lot of renewable energy sources where the generation was more distributed, even individual outages wouldn't have those widespread repercussions," Kohl says. In 2019, Puerto Rico passed a major energy law with the goal of becoming 100% energy renewable by 2050. As of 2025, only 7% of the grid uses renewable energy, according to Kuhl. New Puerto Rican Gov. Jenniffer Gonzalez Colon says an energy czar will be hired to oversee the situation and her administration is looking to replace Luma. She is also calling for the rollback of some of the clean energy targets and instead investing more in natural gas. Funding from FEMA Another major issue is that Puerto Rico has to improve the electrical grid, but funding from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency is restricted and can only be used for maintenance and not for upgrades, Smotkin says. The territory's electrical issues are made even more difficult by the Jones Act, a law passed in 1920 requiring that cargo, including oil, must be transported between U.S. ports on U.S. vessels, according to Smotkin. "Any fuel that we purchase must go on a merchant marine ship, which inflates the price," says Smotkin. "This sort of creates a monopoly that the United States has in Puerto Rico. We're paying more money for energy23.77 cents per kilowatt hour. That's 41% higher than what people pay in the (mainland) U.S." This story is republished courtesy of Northeastern Global News news.northeastern.edu. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Professor John visits the Indonesian Bureau of Meteorology, Climate and Geophysics (BMKG)s centre for Earthquakes and Tsunami early warnings to discuss research related to incorporating AI in modeling. This is an example of an application where AI could make a difference between life, and death. Credit: Ali Azimi, BMKG You might think that my work is self-contradictory. As Professor of Data Science for Sustainability and the Environment at Queen Mary University of London, I use artificial intelligence (AI) to address environment-related challenges. Yet a picture is emerging of the negative environmental impacts of AI, as people all over the world incorporate it into their daily lives. So how do I justify using technology which is harming the environment to undo environmental harm? On the one hand, AI presents serious environmental risks due to the high energy and water consumption of data centers. On the other, it brings unprecedented opportunities to tackle many of the world's most urgent sustainability issues. So, given that AI is becoming more and more embedded in how we work and live, we need to ask ourselves: How can we use AI to drive sustainability, while minimizing the harm it causes to the environment? Why worry? It's becoming ever clearer that the negative impact of AI on the environment is largely to do with its immense energy requirements. Most of this energy consumption occurs during two phases: training the AI models and deploying them for inference (that is, the process of generating responses or predictions, like what happens when you're waiting for a response to a question). Training large modelslike those behind ChatGPT or other large language systemsrequires vast computational resources. In fact, it can take as long as weeks or months, using supercomputers that require significant amounts of power. Once trained, the models also require substantial energy for inference because they are accessed repeatedly by millions of users. This energy consumption wouldn't be such a problem if our energy grids were fully powered by renewable energy. But fossil fuels still dominate global energy production. Currently, nearly 70% of the world's electricity comes from non-renewable sources. With experts predicting that AI could cause Europe's power demand to grow by 40%50% in the next 10 years, integrating this technology's growing energy demand is adding unprecedented strain to an already challenging transition to clean energy. Can AI help? Despite these challenges and the harm that AI poses to the environment, it also holds immense promise in advancing sustainability, especially in the Earth Sciences. For example, AI-driven models are transforming how we predict weather and model climate scenarios. Last year saw a series of truly exciting breakthroughs in the use of AI for weather and air pollution prediction, including Google's GenCast program outperforming the world-leader, ENS, from the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts. Traditional physics-based models, like ENS and those used at other meteorological offices, are computationally expensive, slow, and energy intensive, meaning forecasts are typically run every six hours. Enter AI. As well as predicting both day-to-day and extreme weather more accurately than current methods, AI can reduce the computational demands of weather forecasting while improving accuracy by providing forecasts hourlyor even at a higher frequency. This means AI could provide faster, more detailed weather predictions at a fraction of the energy cost. It's a win-win situation that could help identify potential natural disasters before they strike, minimizing their impact on the environment and on human life. In the Earth Sciences, AI also enables us to analyze decades worth of previously little-used satellite imagery, uncovering patterns that would be impossible to detect manually. This capability to automate tasks supports critical activities like tracking deforestation, monitoring ocean health, and assessing the impact of natural disasters. For example, my research group is using AI to improve our understanding of the earth's climate, develop techniques to speed up the energy transition, improve ocean conservation by tracking the health of coral reefs, planetary exploration and more. In doing thisby more closely studying the environment and climate change using AI technologywe can develop a better understanding of what has happened to date, if / how it can be undone and what can be done to stopor at least slow down and adapt toclimate change moving forwards. Yes, AI can help Reducing AI's negative environmental impact requires a multi-faceted approach. For example, at Queen Mary, we recently refurbished our physics datacenter to improve energy efficiency. We are now using waste heat generated by the computer servers to heat campus buildings, reducing both costs and emissions. We believe this is a model for datacenters across the world, including those used for AI, which shows how technology and sustainability can advance hand-in-hand. Innovations in both computing hardware and software are also essential. Advances in hardware, such as quantum transistors that reduce energy leakage, could dramatically cut AI's energy demands. Optimizing software to use less computational power is also critical. These are areas where universities, including Queen Mary, are conducting cutting-edge research. Similarly, the water consumption of AI datacenters could be reduced by improving cooling infrastructures and applying AI to manage water use more efficiently. Ultimately, the sustainability of AI depends on greening the energy grid itself. Transitioning to renewable energy sourcessuch as solar, wind, and nuclearis crucial and needs to be done at scale. To support work like this, we have recently opened a multidisciplinary Green Energy hub at Queen Mary, which aims to accelerate new ideas and solutions in green energy technologies. Equity is vital Like any new development in technology, AI's positive sustainability applications stand to disproportionately serve the Global North, where infrastructure, funding, and expertise are more readily available. This imbalance risks exacerbating existing global inequalities, leaving communities in the Global South without access to tools that could significantly improve their resilience to climate change and minimize its negative impact. To address this, we need to insist on equitable access to AI technology. At Queen Mary, we're working to ensure this happens by collaborating with partners in the Global South. For example, we are working with Sierra Leone to enhance local weather prediction capabilities, which are critical for agriculture and disaster preparedness. Similarly, in Indonesia, we're training scientists to apply AI in climate research, equipping them with the tools they need to tackle local environmental challenges. We also need policies that incentivize energy efficiency and investment in the energy transition. Governments, universities and the private sector must collaborate to ensure that AI is developed sustainably, something we at Queen Mary will continue to lead the way in, by continuing to drive innovative practices, equitable partnerships, and sharing of knowledge. Because when it comes to AI and the environmentthe challenge is huge, but so is the opportunity. 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: Electronic "backpack" that will navigate the cyborg insect to its intended destination or objective. Credit: Nature Communications (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-55197-8 Scientists have developed an advanced swarm navigation algorithm for cyborg insects that prevents them from becoming stuck while navigating challenging terrain. Published in Nature Communications, the new algorithm represents a significant advance in swarm robotics. It could pave the way for applications in disaster relief, search-and-rescue missions, and infrastructure inspection. Cyborg insects are real insects equipped with tiny electronic devices on their backsconsisting of various sensors like optical and infrared cameras, a battery, and an antenna for communicationthat allow their movements to be remotely controlled for specific tasks. The control of a single cyborg insect was first demonstrated by Professor Hirotaka Sato from NTU Singapore's School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering in 2008. However, a single insect is insufficient for operations such as search-and-rescue missions, where earthquake survivors are spread out and there is an optimal 72-hour window for locating them. In 2021 and 2024, Prof Sato and his partners from Singapore's Home Team Science & Technology Agency (HTX) and Klass Engineering and Solutions demonstrated how cyborg insects may be used for search and rescue operations in the future. This latest paper on the new swarm system uses a leader-follower dynamic, where one cyborg insect acts as a group leader guiding 19 others. Co-corresponding authors of the paper, Professor Masaki Ogura from Hiroshima University and Professor Wakamiya Naoki from Osaka University, developed the swarm control algorithm and computer programs, while NTU Professor Sato and his team prepared the cyborg insect swarm, implemented the algorithm on the insects' electronic backpacks, and conducted the physical experiments in Singapore. Credit: Nature Communications (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-55197-8 The scientists noted several benefits to their new swarm algorithm during lab experiments. Allowing the cyborg insects to move more freely reduced the risk of the cyborgs getting stuck in obstacles, and nearby cyborgs could also help free those stuck or flipped over. How the cyborg insect swarm works Earlier research demonstrated control of a single cyborg or a group that was controlled by algorithms that provided detailed and complex instructions for individual insects, an approach that would not coordinate movement for a big group. With the new method, the leader insect is first appointed by the algorithm, then notified of the intended destination, and its control backpack will coordinate with the backpack of others in the group to guide the swarm. This "tour leader" approach allows the swarm to adapt dynamically, as the insects can assist each other to overcome obstacles, adjusting their movements if one member becomes trapped. The insects used are Madagascar hissing cockroaches equipped with a lightweight circuit board, sensors and a rechargeable battery on their backswhich forms an autonomous navigation system that helps them navigate their surroundings and nudges them towards a target. These cyborgs consume significantly less energy than traditional robots, which rely on power-intensive motors for movement. The insect's legs provide the locomotion needed to move the backpack, as the backpack nudges the insect by applying tiny electrical stimulations, guiding it in a particular direction. When combined with the swarm control algorithm, the insects' instincts enable them to navigate complex terrains and respond rapidly to environmental changes. In experiments, the new algorithm reduced the need to nudge the insects by about 50% compared to earlier approaches, thus allowing the insects to have more independent navigation over obstacles and resolving issues such as insects becoming stuck or trapped. Still photo of cyborg insect swarm navigation. The front left insect (nearest to camera) is the leader. Credit: Nature Communications (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-55197-8 Prof Sato said the technology is envisioned to be helpful in search and rescue missions, infrastructure inspection, and environmental monitoring, where narrow spaces and unpredictable conditions render conventional robots ineffective. "To conduct search and inspection operations, large areas must be surveyed efficiently, often across challenging and obstacle-laden terrain. The concept involves deploying multiple swarms of cyborg insects to navigate and inspect these obstructed regions. Once the sensors on the backpack of a cyborg insect detect a target, such as humans in search-and-rescue missions or structural defects in infrastructure, they can wirelessly alert the control system," explains Prof Sato. Prof Sato is renowned for his pioneering work in cyborg insects. He had previously received global recognition when his research was named one of TIME magazine's 50 Best Inventions of 2009 and one of the 10 Emerging Technologies of 2009 (TR10) by MIT Technology Review. Co-corresponding author of the paper, Professor Masaki Ogura, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering at Hiroshima University, said, "Our swarm control algorithm represents a significant breakthrough in coordinating groups of cyborg insects for complex search-and-rescue missions. This innovation has the potential to greatly enhance disaster response efficiency while also opening new avenues for research in swarm control. It underscores the importance of developing control methods that perform effectively in real-world scenarios, going beyond theoretical models and simulations." Illustration of how multiple cyborg insects will follow a single leader (swarm navigation). Credit: Nature Communications (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-55197-8 Co-corresponding author, Professor Wakamiya Naoki, Graduate School of Information Science and Technology, Osaka University, explained, "Unlike robots, insects do not behave as we intend them to. However, instead of forcibly trying to control them precisely, we found that taking a more relaxed and rough approach not only worked better but also led to the natural emergence of complex behaviors, such as cooperative actions, which are challenging to design as algorithms. "This was a remarkable discovery. While their actions may appear haphazard at first glance, there seems to be a great deal we can still learn from the sophisticated and intricate behaviors of living organisms." Their latest advance underscores the practical potential of biohybrid systems in addressing real-world challenges and the importance of global interdisciplinary research collaborations. Looking ahead, the joint team aims to develop algorithms that enable coordinated swarm actions beyond simple movements, such as collaboratively transporting large objects. They also plan to conduct experiments in outdoor environments, including rubble piles commonly found in disaster zones, to validate the algorithm's effectiveness in more complex and real-world scenarios. More information: Yang Bai et al, Swarm navigation of cyborg-insects in unknown obstructed soft terrain, Nature Communications (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-55197-8 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Artificial intelligence harms, problematic social media content, data privacy violationsthe issues are the same, but the policymakers and regulators who deal with them are about to change. As the federal government transitions to a new term under the renewed leadership of Donald Trump, the regulatory landscape for technology in the United States faces a significant shift. The Trump administration's stated approach to these issues signals changes. It is likely to move away from the civil rights aspect of Biden administration policy toward an emphasis on innovation and economic competitiveness. While some potential policies would pull back on stringent federal regulations, others suggest new approaches to content moderation and ways of supporting AI-related business practices. They also suggest avenues for state legislation. I study the intersection of law and technology. Here are the key tech law issues likely to shape the incoming administration's agenda in 2025. AI regulation: Innovation vs. civil rights The rapid evolution of AI technologies has led to an expansion of AI policies and regulatory activities, presenting both opportunities and challenges. The federal government's approach to AI regulation is likely to undergo notable changes under the incoming Trump administration. The Biden administration's AI Bill of Rights and executive order on AI established basic principles and guardrails to protect safety, privacy and civil rights. These included requirements for developers of powerful AI systems to report safety test results, and a mandate for the National Institute of Standards and Technology to create rigorous safety standards. They also required government agencies to use AI in responsible ways. Unlike the Biden era, the Trump administration's deregulatory approach suggests a different direction. The president-elect has signaled his intention to repeal Biden's executive order on AI, citing the need to foster free speech. Trump's nominee to head the Federal Trade Commission, Andrew Ferguson, has echoed this sentiment. He has stated his opposition to restrictive AI regulations and the adoption of a comprehensive federal AI law. With limited prospects for federal AI legislation under the Trump administration, states are likely to lead the charge in addressing emerging AI harms. In 2024, at least 45 states introduced AI-related bills. For example, Colorado passed comprehensive legislation to address algorithmic discrimination. In 2025, state lawmakers may either follow Colorado's example by enacting broad AI regulations or focus on targeted laws for specific applications, such as automated decision-making, deepfakes, facial recognition and AI chatbots. Data privacy: Federal or state leadership? Data privacy remains a key area of focus for policymakers, and 2025 is a critical year to see whether Congress will enact a federal privacy law. The proposed American Privacy Rights Act, introduced in 2024, represents a bipartisan effort to create a comprehensive federal privacy framework. The bill includes provisions for preempting state laws and allowing private rights of action, meaning allowing individuals to sue over alleged violations. The bill aims to simplify compliance and reduce the patchwork of state regulations. These issues are likely to spark key debates in the year ahead. Lawmakers are also likely to wrestle with balancing regulatory burdens on smaller businesses with the need for comprehensive privacy protections. In the absence of federal action, states may continue to dominate privacy regulation. Since California passed the Consumer Privacy Rights Act in 2019, 19 states have passed comprehensive privacy laws. Recent state privacy laws have differing scopes, rights and obligations, which creates a fragmented regulatory environment. In 2024, key issues included defining sensitive data, protecting minors' privacy, incorporating data minimization principles, and addressing compliance challenges for medium or small businesses. At the federal level in 2024, the Biden administration issued an executive order authorizing the U.S. attorney general to restrict cross-border data transfers to protect national security. These efforts may continue in the new administration. Cybersecurity, health privacy and online safety States have become key players in strengthening cybersecurity protections, with roughly 30 states requiring businesses to adhere to cybersecurity standards. The California Privacy Protection Agency Board, for example, has proposed rulemaking on cybersecurity audits, data protection risk assessments and automated decision-making. Meanwhile, there is a growing trend toward strengthening health data privacy and protecting children online. Washington state and Nevada, for example, have adopted laws that expand the protection of health data beyond the scope of the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. Numerous states, such as California, Colorado, Utah and Virginia, have recently expanded protections for young users' data. In the absence of federal regulation, state governments are likely to continue leading efforts to address pressing privacy and cybersecurity concerns in 2025. Social media and Section 230 Online platform regulation has been a contentious issue under both the Biden and Trump administrations. There are federal efforts to reform Section 230, which shields online platforms from liability for user-generated content, and federal- and state-level efforts to address misinformation and hate speech. While Trump's previous administration criticized Section 230 for allegedly enabling censorship of conservative voices, the Biden administration focused on increasing transparency and accountability for companies that fail to remove concerning content. With Trump coming back to office, Congress is likely to consider proposals to prohibit certain forms of content moderation in the name of free speech protections. On the other hand, states like California and Connecticut have recently passed legislation requiring platforms to disclose information about hate speech and misinformation. Some existing state laws regulating online platforms are facing U.S. Supreme Court challenges on First Amendment grounds. In 2025, debates are likely to continue on how to balance platform neutrality with accountability at both federal and state levels. Changes in the wind Overall, while federal efforts on issues like Section 230 reform and children's online protection may advance, federal-level AI regulation and data privacy laws could potentially slow down due to the administration's deregulatory stance. Whether long-standing legislative efforts like federal data privacy protection materialize will depend on the balance of power between Congress, the courts and the incoming administration. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Druze Commander Rejects Islamic Rule in Syria The Druze reject Islamic rule and prefer a decentralized government in Syria, a commander from the minority group said on Sunday. "Religious and Islamic rule has only led the country and its people to war and conflict. This is completely rejected by us," Sheikh Marwan al-Rizq, a commander in the Suwayda Operations Room told Rudaw. The Druze are an ethno-religious group found mainly in Lebanon, Syria, and Israel. "Every Syrian is our relative. We do not distinguish between Arabs, Assyrians, Christians, Islam, and Shiites. The idea of majority and minority in Syria was imported by the occupier and we reject it. Syrians are friends of all communities," he added. In Suwayda, Syria's southern city that is home to a large Druze community, many people think a decentralized government is the best way to guarantee their rights and those of other minorities across the country. The people of Suwayda and their leaders have said they prefer a secular, democratic state with the powers separated among different regions of Syria. Their community has been shaken by recent calls from the new de facto leader in Damascus, Ahmed al-Sharaa better known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, for armed groups to lay down their weapons. Druze militias on Wednesday forced a military convoy linked to Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) to return to Damascus without entering Suwayda province. The HTS, led by Sharaa, spearheaded an offensive by rebel groups a month ago that toppled Bashar al-Assad. The Druze spiritual leader, Sheikh Hikmat, al-Hijri has said that disarmament depends on constitutional guarantees. Sharaa said in a recent interview that it could take them three years to draft a new constitution for the country. Many Syrians and foreign powers are worried that HTS-authority may impose strict Islamic rule and threaten minority groups such as Kurds, Druze, Christians, and Alawites. (TBTCO) - Lai suat ngan hang ngay 14/3/2025, tiep tuc chung kien nhieu thay oi manh me. Sau ot ieu chinh lien tuc tu au thang, cac ngan hang a cong bo muc lai suat moi, ac biet la lai suat huy ong cho cac ky han tu 12 - 36 thang. Cac thay oi nay phan anh xu huong giam lai suat huy ong o nhieu ngan hang, nhung cung co nhung ngan hang ap dung cac chuong trinh lai suat ac biet cho cac khach hang co so du gui tiet kiem lon. Bahrains proactive transition from oil dependency to high-value industries, guided by its Vision 2030 strategic framework, has positioned it as a dynamic location for investment and business in the Gulf, says a new report. The countrys initiatives in digital transformation, infrastructure development and sustainability are further enhancing its competitiveness on the global stage, says The Report: Bahrain 2024, the latest publication by global research and advisory firm Oxford Business Group (OBG). Bahrains commitment to economic diversification, sustainability and innovation, , is the focus of the report. It examines the kingdoms progress in achieving long-term socio-economic transformation, spotlighting key sectors such as financial services, manufacturing, tourism, ICT and renewable energy. A dedicated chapter on sustainability marks a significant addition to this years report, offering insights into Bahrains efforts to incorporate environmental goals into its economic framework. The report also explores the role of Bahrains Vision 2030 in fostering growth across non-hydrocarbon sectors, with a particular focus on the potential for new technologies to strengthen industrial capacity and boost manufacturing competitiveness. Bahrains tourism landscape is also in the spotlight, with innovative strategies being employed to attract visitors and redefine the sectors role in economic growth. The report explores how Industry 4.0 technologies and machine learning are reshaping manufacturing, as well as the opportunities presented by new residential developments and infrastructure projects, including the introduction of a residence permit aimed at attracting foreign investment. Jana Treeck, OBGs Managing Director for the Middle East, said Bahrains strategic approach to development is positioning it for long-term economic gains. The kingdoms efforts to accelerate its economic diversification and sustainability agenda are bearing fruit, with tangible progress across key industries. This report provides a timely and comprehensive analysis of emerging opportunities in Bahrains dynamic market, Treeck said. OBGs Editor-in-Chief, Oliver Cornock, reflected on Bahrains ability to adapt to evolving economic trends. Bahrains proactive policies and focus on innovation are positioning it to navigate global challenges while fostering sustainable growth. The report underscores the kingdoms achievements and highlights the key sectors driving its economic transformation, he added. The Report: Bahrain 2024 features interviews with high-profile figures, including Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development and Chief Executive of Bahrain EDB; Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce; Mohamed bin Mubarak Bin Daina, Minister of Oil and Environment; Usman Ahmed, Group CEO, National Bank of Bahrain; and Ali Al Baqali, CEO, Aluminium Bahrain. Produced in partnership with Bahrain Bourse and KPMG Fakhro, the report represents the culmination of extensive research conducted by OBGs analysts, a statement said. TradeArabia News Service Saudi sovereign wealth fund PIF has announced the completion its first murabaha credit facility for the sum of $7 billion, as part of its medium-term capital raising strategy. The financing structure is backed by a consortium of 20 international and regional financial institutions, said a statement from PIF. Fahad AlSaif, PIFs Head of the Global Capital Finance Division and Head of Investment Strategy and Economic Insights Division, said: "This inaugural murabaha credit facility demonstrates the flexibility and depth of PIFs financing strategy and use of diversified funding sources, as we continue to drive transformative investments, globally and in Saudi Arabia." "This financing complements PIFs successful sukuk issuances over the past two years. It also underpins PIFs strong financial position, as well as its best-practice approach to debt financing," stated AlSaif. The Saudi wealth fund is rated Aa3 by Moodys with a stable outlook and A+ by Fitch, also with stable outlook. PIF has four main sources of funding: capital injections from government, government asset transfers, retained earnings from investments, and loans and debt instruments, he added.-TradeArabia News Service The Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard Company (ASRY) has signed a new agreement with the Arab Maritime Petroleum Transport Company (AMPTC) to provide docking and maintenance services for AMPTCs fleet of tankers operating in the region. The agreement was formalised during a meeting attended by Engineer Adel Aljasem, Chairman of the Board; Dr Ahmed AlAbri, ASRYs Chief Executive Officer; and Hocine Boudia, AMPTCs Director General, along with senior officials from both organisations. Engineer Aljasem expressed his pleasure at the partnership, describing it as a fraternal example of Arab companies working together under a shared vision. He stressed the importance of diversifying income sources and strengthening productivity while maintaining operational excellence. Aljasem also commended ASRYs extensive facilities and expertise, describing it as one of the Middle Easts leading maritime firms. Dr AlAbri voiced his enthusiasm for meeting AMPTCs delegation, led by Eng Aljasem, and reaffirmed the strong partnership between the two firms. "Our relationship with AMPTC has always been based on mutual trust and shared objectives. This agreement enables us to continue providing tailored services that meet their fleets specific needs, said Dr AlAbri. He further noted ASRYs ongoing efforts to deliver exceptional, high-quality services, drawing on its decades of experience in the maritime sector. Boudia praised ASRYs technical expertise and long-standing reputation. He described the agreement as a clear example of successful collaboration between Arab enterprises and emphasised their shared focus on achieving mutual progress and economic growth. - TradeArabia News Service An aerial drone photo taken on Sept. 26, 2023 shows the Tesla Gigafactory in Lingang new area of the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone in east China's Shanghai. [Photo/Xinhua] Despite recording a slight drop in its global deliveries in 2024, U.S. electric vehicle maker Tesla saw its sales in the Chinese mainland reach a record high of 657,000 units, up 8.8 percent year on year. Meanwhile, Tesla's energy storage Megafactory in Shanghai has started trial production recently. Tesla's story in China serves as a case study of the country's opening-up, business environment and its industrial strength in the new energy vehicle (NEV) sector. It also demonstrates the mutually beneficial potential of cooperation. Tesla's Gigafactory in Shanghai is the first wholly foreign-owned car manufacturing enterprise in China. The factory was built and inaugurated within a year in 2019. It now accounts for more than half of Tesla's global deliveries. The Megafactory, Tesla's second plant in Shanghai, was completed about seven months after construction began in May 2024. The amazing speed of the two projects is indicative of China's business environment. Furthermore, Tesla has been included in multiple local government procurement catalogs, highlighting China's equal treatment of domestic and foreign enterprises. Undoubtedly, Tesla's investment in China is a success and delivers win-win outcomes. This would be impossible without China's firm commitment to opening-up and its consistent efforts to improve its business environment. The country's big market and complete industrial chains are also vital to the Shanghai factory's growth. The localization rate of the Shanghai Gigafactory's industrial chain exceeds 95 percent. Tesla is a popular brand among Chinese consumers. About two-thirds of vehicles produced by the Shanghai Gigafactory are sold in China, and one-third are exported to overseas markets such as Europe. The energy-storage batteries, or Megapacks, produced by the Megafactory Shanghai will also supply the global market. Driven by robust domestic demand amid the country's green transition drive, China's NEV industry has seen remarkable growth in recent years. In 2024, China's NEV output exceeded 10 million units for the first time. Tesla was one of the major contributors to this landmark scale. Currently, 90 percent of the NEVs produced in China are sold domestically. More importantly, China's NEV industry has grown in a vibrant marketplace teeming with competition across state-owned, private and foreign enterprises. With a "catfish effect," Tesla, as a key competitive player, has helped push the innovation and growth of China's NEV sector. Just like Tesla, leading Chinese NEV and battery makers have invested in a number of countries globally, including Hungary and Brazil. This attests to the robust global demand for green products like NEVs, and to the shared aspiration for a sustainable planet. In 2030, the global demand for NEVs will be three times the 2023 figure, according to the International Energy Agency. All of these facts show that the so-called "overcapacity" rhetoric about China's NEV industry is nothing but an excuse for protectionist trade measures. Tesla's Shanghai plants exemplify successful cooperation in the new energy sector between China and the United States. Green transformation can be a key area of China-U.S. cooperation. Working together, the world's two largest economies can help build a sustainable planet. In an interdependent world, with the interests of different countries deeply intertwined, economies will either progress together through connectivity and unity, or retreat due to closure and division. The sole wise choice for all is to build the greatest possible consensus for mutually beneficial outcomes, and to work together to increase the size of the global economic pie through openness. Greater success is expected for Tesla's business in China. In advancing its own green modernization, China will offer new business opportunities with more high-standard opening-up measures. It is hoped all countries meet the trends of the times and tap the potential for mutually beneficial cooperation to achieve common prosperity that benefits all. Saudi-based National Company for Glass Industries has announced that one of its key subsidiaries - Guardian Zoujaj International Float Glass (Guardian RAK) - has awarded $15.1 million contract for the maintenance and renovation of the blast furnace at its plant. As per the deal, CTE, a French group with expertise in the construction and repair of glass furnaces, and its Luxembourg-based subsidiary, Lizmontagens Melting & Services (LM&S), will be responsible for carrying out the maintenance and renovation work on the melting furnace at the Guardian RAK plant in the kingdom, said Zoujaj in its filing to Saudi bourse Tadawul. The work on the project will begin next month and is due for completion in April, it stated. On the financial impact of the project, Zoujaj said the financial impact will be in stopping of production, and stopping period will be compensated during the year according to the scheduled maintenance plan in 2025. The start of the expected impact of the project will be seen on the companys results in 2025, it added.-TradeArabia News Service Ethiopian Airlines Group, Africa's largest airline brand, has inaugurated the Wako Gutu Airport Terminal in Bale Robe, attended by Oromia Regional State President Shimelis Abdisa, high government officials, Ethiopian Airlines Group executive management members, and dignitaries. The new state of the art airport terminal is aimed at advancing the socio-economic and cultural interrelation between the domestic regions and beyond providing seamless domestic air transportation service. Mesfin Tasew, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, said, "We are delighted to announce the completion of this terminal project, which brings an enhanced travel experience to our passengers flying to and from this destination. Our commitment to improving the airport experience across our domestic network drives us to invest in upgrades and renovations like this. We take great pride in delivering this state-of-the-art facility and look forward to offering our passengers an elevated level of comfort and convenience." Bale is among the iconic Ethiopian tourist destinations, with its proximity to one of the most spectacular and extensive underground caverns in the world, Holqa Sof Omar, famously known as the Sof Omar cave. Ethiopian Airlines' flight to Bale Robe also plays a crucial role in enhancing the tourism potential of the Bale Mountains National Park by improving accessibility and promoting the region as a prime tourist destination. Ethiopian Airlines continues to enhance regional connectivity, serving over 22 destinations across the country. Demonstrating its commitment to transforming domestic aviation, Ethiopian Airlines operates up to 14 weekly flights to and from Robe Wako Gutu Airport. This dedication is further highlighted by the recent inauguration of Gode Ugaas Miraad and Jinka Airports Terminals, the renovation of Addis Ababa Bole International Airports Domestic Terminal, the resumption of services to Dembi Dollo and Axum Airports, the launch of new air services to Nekemite, and the inauguration of Bale Robe's Wako Gutu Airport Terminal Building along with its ancillary facilities. Since the acquisition of the Ethiopian Airports Enterprise by Ethiopian Airlines Group as a Strategic Business Unit (SBU) in 2017, Ethiopian Airlines Group has taken over the administrative role including construction and renovation projects of airports in the country. -TradeArabia News Service An event to showcase Italian tourism excellence was held in the UAE capital recently as part of the Abu Dhabi stop of the World Tour Vespucci and Italy Village. The event, The Wonders of Italian Tourism and the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, was promoted by the Ministry of Tourism and organised by ENIT. The event represented a unique opportunity to further strengthen tourism ties with Gulf countries, officials said. Tourism flow data confirms this trend. In 2023, there was an increase of over 44% in travellers from Abu Dhabi and 32% from Dubai, while Saudi Arabia registered a 95% rise in visitors, with overnight stays increasing by over 32% and spending by 74%. Additionally, tourists from Saudi Arabia increased their overnight stays by 32.5% and spending by 74.6%. The extremely positive trend in tourism from Gulf countries is an encouraging sign for our sector. We are working to attract more Arab visitors -- who, notably, are high-spending tourists -- by offering increasingly innovative options, stated Minister of Tourism Daniela Santanche. Thanks to a new industrial vision, which the ministry has now embraced, and the valuable work of industry operators, we will be able to consolidate this success, making Italy even more appealing to this market, the minister said. ENIT, explained CEO Ivana Jelenic, actively supports Italian businesses in fully seizing these opportunities through targeted promotional actions and by fostering the creation of strategic partnerships. This ensures that the Italian tourism sector can reap the maximum benefits from this extraordinary growth opportunity. - TradeArabia News Service FOR nearly two years, one of the chief financiers of the Seven gang based in the United King Flash People are seen at the site of destroyed tents after an Israeli bombardment in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza Strip, on Jan. 4, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua] The Israeli military has ramped up airstrikes on the Gaza Strip amid revived negotiations in Doha aimed at halting a 15-month conflict, Palestinian officials and witnesses reported. The surge in attacks followed a warning earlier on Sunday from Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, who vowed "stronger strikes than Gaza has seen in a long time" unless Hamas ceases rocket fire and releases hostages. Local residents described the raids as among the most intense since the war began. Mahmoud Basal, spokesperson for the Palestinian Civil Defense, told Xinhua that at least 17 Palestinians were killed in the strikes on Sunday. He detailed that five people died in an airstrike targeting a house in the Nuseirat refugee camp, while four others were killed in Jabalia. In Khan Yunis, five were killed, and dozens injured in a strike on a Hamas police center. Three more fatalities occurred in two separate airstrikes in Rafah. The Hamas-led media office reported that the Israeli military has conducted 94 airstrikes over the past 72 hours, leaving 184 dead. Meanwhile, the Israeli military said it targeted 100 locations in Gaza over the weekend, claiming to have killed dozens of Hamas operatives. Efforts to broker a ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal have gained momentum in Doha, with mediators from Egypt and Qatar applying pressure on both sides. Palestinian sources familiar with the discussions said Hamas has shown flexibility toward a phased agreement. Israeli media outlet Yedioth Ahronoth cited officials suggesting that the talks focus on a "limited, partial deal," including a short-term ceasefire of six to eight weeks and a prisoner exchange. Mossad chief David Barnea is set to join the Israeli delegation in Doha on Monday. Amid the violence, civilians in Gaza expressed mixed feelings about the prospects of a truce. Samir al-Amoudi, a displaced resident of Khan Yunis, voiced hope for a swift resolution. "Every day, dozens die, and entire families are erased. We must stop this catastrophe," the father of six said. Others, however, remain skeptical. "There's no optimism yet," said Ahmed al-Hams, also from Khan Yunis. "The suffering grows daily -- killing, destruction, starvation. This must end." The war erupted on Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a surprise attack on southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking around 250 hostages. Israel responded with large-scale air and ground operations in Gaza, where over two million residents face mounting casualties and devastation. According to the health authorities in Gaza's Sunday tally, Israeli strikes have killed approximately 45,805 Palestinians and injured over 109,064. PHOENIX The death sentence is justified against a man convicted of the 1989 rape and murder of a woman in Tucson, the Arizona Supreme Court ruled Monday. In the unanimous ruling, the court rejected claims by Christopher Spreitz that a trial judge did not properly consider the connection between his longstanding substance abuse and the murder when sentencing him to death. That means the sentence stands, wrote Justice William Montgomery for the court. In fact, Montgomery noted, the Supreme Court had previously upheld the death sentence. The only reason it came back to the justices is that a federal appeals court said the court had not used the correct standard in determining that Spreitzs drug use should not be considered a mitigating circumstance in deciding whether to spare his life. As a result, the Supreme Court went back over the case, looked at all the factors weighing for or against the death penalty, and concluded Monday that the original sentence of death is justified. According to police reports, Ivy Mae Atherton, who was also known as Ruby Reid, left a bar about 11:30 p.m. on May 18, 1989 to walk to her nearby apartment. Her beaten body was found three days later by a woman riding a horse in the desert near El Camino del Cerro and North Silverbell Road. As it turned out, police had stopped Spreitz the night of the murder for unrelated reasons and found he had blood on his clothes. He said it was the result of a fight. It was only after Athertons body was discovered that Spreitz became a suspect and was arrested. Police said he told them he met her that night at a convenience store, they went to the desert to party, and got into an argument that ended when he raped her and hit her in the head with a rock. Prosecutors gave a different account, saying Spreitz had abducted Atherton, stuffed her into the trunk of his car, and drove her to the desert where he raped and killed her. Spreitzs lawyer at the time asked jurors to convict him of a lesser charge, arguing he was drunk at the time and never intended to kill Atherton. The jury disagreed and found him guilty of first-degree murder. Pima County Superior Court Judge William Sherill said the death sentence was appropriate because the killing was especially cruel. That finding is crucial. In Arizona, simply being convicted of first-degree murder does not automatically result in a death sentence. Instead, there needs to be a finding of at least one aggravating circumstance. That can be whether the crime was committed for financial gain, whether the victim was a police officer, and whether the crime was committed in an especially heinous, cruel or depraved manner. At that point, a court must weigh whether there are sufficient mitigating circumstances to spare someones life. That list includes the age of the assailant, impaired capacity to appreciate the wrongfulness of the conduct, and a history of alcohol and drug abuse. In the new ruling Monday, the Supreme Court agreed there was an aggravating circumstance. Whether during the drive to the desert, the initial beating, the sexual assault, while she was being dragged to where her body was discovered, or while she was being beaten in the head, with rocks, there was ample time during which (Atherton) was consciously suffering, Montgomery wrote. And it was not outweighed by mitigating factors. We conclude that the mitigation evidence is insufficient to warrant leniency in light of the significant weight of the especially cruel aggravating circumstance, Montgomery wrote. The Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BIDV) has announced the auction of Hanoi VIP International School, a private elementary school in Vietnam's capital, to recover a bad debt of over US$20 million from a local company that had pledged the school as one of the mortgages for a loan. The debtor is Phu Son Cement Joint Stock Company, based in northern Ninh Binh Province, and its unpaid debt amounted to 19.7 million ($20.3 million) as of November 15, 2024, BIDV said in a recent announcement. Among the total, 7 million ($7.2 million) is the loans principal balance and the remainder accounts for accumulated interest and fees. One of the loan's collaterals includes the land use rights and land-attached property of the schools predecessor, Thai Ha Private Elementary School, situated in Hanois Dong Da District. According to Vietnamnet, Hanoi VIP (Very Intelligent Pupils) International School is part of the Hanoi VIP Education System, which was established in 2006, with Hoang Thi Ngoc Mai serving as the chairwoman of the board of directors. BIDV also states the starting auction price will be equal to the total value of the unpaid debt at the time of signing an auction contract between the bank and auction bidders. The time frame for direct submission of auction bidder registration dossiers is five business days from the publication of the auction announcement on BIDV's official website. Phu Son, founded in 2006 in Ninh Binhs Nho Quan District, lists Nguyen Huu Loi as its legal representative. In 2007, the company commenced construction of a cement plant in Nho Quan with an annual production capacity of 11 million metric tons. The project carried a price tag of VND5 trillion ($196.7 million). However, the work slowed down in 2009 before coming to a firm stop in late 2012. In 2022, the Ninh Binh administration issued a document directing relevant agencies to carry out procedures to terminate this project. Data from the national business registration system shows that in August 2023, the Ninh Binh Department of Planning and Investment issued a notice citing violations by Phu Son, leading to the revocation of its enterprise registration certificate. The notice stated that the company had breached its tax obligations and failed to submit reports required under the Law on Enterprises to demonstrate compliance with relevant regulations. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has downplayed a recent outbreak of pneumonia caused by the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) as an annual winter occurrence while health authorities in Vietnam are still monitoring the developments to provide timely updates. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Saturday that respiratory infection spreading in this country is a regular disease, not an unusual medical event. Respiratory infections often peak at this current time of year in China, it said. Last week, several international media outlets reported on a rapidly spreading outbreak causing alarm due to symptoms similar to flu and COVID-19, raising fears of another health crisis. Social media posts have also circulated images of overcrowded hospitals and crematoriums in China, allegedly linked to cases of HMPV infection. HMPV is a respiratory pathogen that can cause lower respiratory tract infections and pneumonia in immunocompetent adults, according to the International Journal of Infectious Diseases. Dr. Than Manh Hung, from the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases in Hanoi, told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that the HMPV virus is in the same family as the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). HMPV has once been recorded, and is not too dangerous. However, virus mutation occurs frequently, so further monitoring is needed. In case of a dangerous epidemic, health authorities will issue appropriate warnings and recommendations, he added. Dr. Tran Dac Phu, former director of the Department of Preventive Medicine, told Tuoi Tre that the World Health Organization (WHO) has yet to issue a warning about this epidemic. Explaining the situation in China, Phu said that the sharp decline of HMPV infection cases during the COVID-19 pandemic might result in the number of cases rocketing recently. In addition, respiratory diseases tend to increase in China in winter, with the main pathogen agents including seasonal influenza virus, RSV, and HMPV. Dr. Phu advised that preventing diseases caused by HMPV requires the same measures used for other respiratory illnesses. Individuals experiencing symptoms such as cough, fever, or a runny nose should avoid crowded public places to help limit the spread of the virus. Moreover, everybody should wash hands with soap frequently and wear medical masks when contacting people with signs of HMPV infection. Dr. Hung warned that children, the elderly, or people with underlying conditions are among vulnerable groups. Everyone should go to medical facilities for timely examination and treatment when having symptoms such as cough, fever, difficulty breathing, and chest pain, Dr. Hung advised. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The national health authority of Vietnam has pledged to closely monitor a recent outbreak of pneumonia caused by the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China while working with international and Chinese health agencies to keep the public informed about the situation and prevent unnecessary panic. The Department of Preventive Medicine, under the Vietnamese Ministry of Health, released a statement about the outbreak on Sunday. Last week, several international media outlets reported on a rapidly spreading outbreak causing alarm due to symptoms similar to flu and COVID-19, raising fears of another health crisis. Social media posts have also circulated images of overcrowded hospitals and crematoriums in China, allegedly linked to cases of HMPV infection. In response, Vietnam's Department of Preventive Medicine has reached out to the World Health Organization (WHO) and Chinas International Health Regulations Focal Point to seek further information. The WHO has yet to release official statements on the outbreak, while the reliability of the circulated information remains unverified. According to disease surveillance data from China, common respiratory pathogens include the flu virus, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, HMPV, and rhinovirus. The Department of Preventive Medicine added that seasonal factors, including winter conditions, will contribute to increasing respiratory illnesses. Last weekend, the Chinese foreign ministry described the surge in respiratory infections as a common seasonal trend, saying a peak in winter is expected. Vietnamese health authorities will continue monitoring respiratory infections in China and urged the public to stay vigilant during the winter-spring season, as it is favorable for spreading respiratory viruses. Speaking to Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper, Than Manh Hung from the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases emphasized basic preventive practices for respiratory infections, including the Respiratory Syncytial Virus, HMPV, and seasonal flu. People should maintain clean and ventilated environments, wear face masks in crowded areas, and wash hands regularly. The elderly and those with chronic respiratory illnesses or underlying health conditions should be vaccinated. Residents should promptly seek medical attention if they develop respiratory symptoms such as fever, coughing, chest pain, or difficulty breathing. Like us on Facebook or follow us on X to get the latest news about Vietnam! Flash This photo taken on Dec. 8, 2024 shows thick smoke after an explosion in Damascus, Syria. [Photo/Xinhua] A series of incidents across Syria over the weekend underscored the fragility of the security situation following the ouster of Bashar al-Assad's government last month. In southern Quneitra province, Israeli forces reportedly crossed into several villages on Sunday, erecting dirt barriers that disrupted civilian life and closed schools in at least one community, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The Observatory, citing eyewitnesses, said residents attempted to block the incursion, but Israeli units advanced, taking up positions and detaining at least one person in nearby Daraa province. Tensions also persisted in northern Syria, where Turkish-backed factions within the Syrian National Army (SNA) targeted the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) near Manbij, northeast of Aleppo. The observatory reported Turkish airstrikes aimed at breaching SDF defensive lines, potentially targeting strategic locations around Maskanah in the Aleppo countryside. Over 100 fighters were killed in two days of clashes, the majority from Turkish-backed forces, according to the Observatory. Separately, the observatory reported a surge in the circulation of small arms, much of it looted from abandoned government military depots. The weapons, now being sold cheaply, have ended up in the hands of teenagers lacking training and awareness of the dangers, the Observatory said. Citing a doctor at Damascus' Mujtahid Hospital, the report said two to five child-related gun injuries are being treated weekly. "They pick up stray ordinance as if they were harmless objects," the doctor said, warning of potential psychological trauma for young survivors. In eastern Homs province, security forces continued a crackdown for a second day on Sunday, reportedly detaining around 500 people over the weekend, including former soldiers of the Assad government, according to the observatory. The Britain-based monitor reported abuses during the raids, including mistreatment of individuals believed to have ties to the previous military and security apparatus, despite official pledges of a transparent legal process. Many young travelers are gravitating to a beach on Phu Quoc Island off the coast of Kien Giang Province in southern Vietnam in the afternoons to take photos with the sunset and arriving or departing planes. Phu Quoc has welcomed up to 60 flights per day over the past several days. At around 4:00 pm every day, when the sun starts to go down, young people wearing colorful costumes crowd Cua Lap Beach in Duong To Commune to capture their moments with a reed field, the sunset, and approaching planes. Tourists walk through a reed field for photoshoots on Phu Quoc Island off the coast of Kien Giang Province in southern Vietnam. Photo: Chi Cong / Tuoi Tre Mai Thi Hong Ngan, a tourist from An Giang Province in the Mekong Delta, said that Phu Quoc is home to multiple unspoiled beaches. Typically, Cua Lap Beach boasts a charming reed field and soft golden sand, she said, expressing her excitement that on the beach, she could watch the sun setting and spot planes arriving at or departing from Phu Quoc International Airport. My friends and I feel relaxed and comfortable to sit on the sand to enjoy the fresh air, photograph ourselves, and savor tasty dishes, Ngan shared happily. The sunset on Phu Quoc Island is different every day. I often arrive at the beach [Cua Lap] to watch the sunset and approaching planes. It is a wonderful experience, said Tran Chau Ai, a resident of Go Quao District in Kien Giang Province. Over the past several days, Phu Quoc has received 55-60 flights carrying local and international tourists per day, according to the provincial Department of Tourism. Kien Giang is focusing on developing various tourism products and services based on its islets, beaches, rural areas, historical relics, and cultural values to delight visitors. The sun is setting, while residents on Phu Quoc Island are netting fish. Photo: Chi Cong / Tuoi Tre An image of the sun setting on Phu Quoc Island. Photo: Chi Cong / Tuoi Tre Tourists sit on Cua Lap Beach on Phu Quoc Island to watch the sunset. Photo: Chi Cong / Tuoi Tre Tourists crowd Cua Lap Beach on Phu Quoc Island for photoshoots as the place is emerging as a popular plane spotting and sunset watching location. Photo: Chi Cong / Tuoi Tre Like us on Facebook or follow us on X to get the latest news about Vietnam! The 82nd Golden Globe Awards were held today at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills. Comedian Nikki Glaser announced Tonight we celebrate the best of Film and hold space for Television launching into a well-received monologue, inclduing referring to being back in a room full of Hollywood producers with my clothes on. There were punchlines about Paramount+, Peacock and a room making history potentially with future disgraced stars / execs, 100% of the time its a man it could be a woman, it never is, just like Best Director. TV winners in bold: Best Performance By A Female Actor in a Television Series Musical or Comedy Kristen Bell, Nobody Wants This Quinta Brunson, Abbott Elementary Ayo Edebiri, The Bear Selena Gomez, Only Murders In The Building Kathryn Hahn, Agatha All Along Jean Smart, Hacks I never thought Id be so happy to be called a Hack, said Smart, who thanked co-star Hannah Einbinder. Without Ava there would be no Deborah. were in the middle of S4 and were still loving the show. Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Series Drama Donald Glover, Mr. & Mrs. Smith Jake Gyllenhaal, Presumed Innocent Gary Oldman, Slow Horses Eddie Redmayne, The Day Of The Jackal Hiroyuki Sanada, Shogun Billy Bob Thornton, Landman Thank you Golden Globes for recognising me, Sanada said before imparting a little advice to aspiring actors. Please be yourself, believe in yourself, and never give up. Good luck. Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role on Television Liza Colon-Zayas, The Bear Hannah Einbinder, Hacks Dakota Fanning, Ripley Jessica Gunning, Baby Reindeer Allison Janney, The Diplomat Kali Reis, True Detective: Night Country Thank you to Richard Gadd. Baby Reindeer has changed my life, said Gunning. I cant believe this is happening to me. Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role on Television Tadanobu Asano, Shogun Javier Bardem, Monsters: The Lyle And Erik Menendez Story Harrison Ford, Shrinking Jack Lowden, Slow Horses Diego Luna, La Maquina Ebon Moss-Bachrach, The Bear Im an actor from Japan and my name is Tadanobu Asano, said Asano (pictured top). This is very big present for me. Im so happy. Thank you so much. Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Series Musical or Comedy Adam Brody, Nobody Wants This Ted Danson, A Man on the Inside Steve Martin, Only Murders in the Building Jason Segel, Shrinking Martin Short, Only Murders in the Building Jeremy Allen White, The Bear Jeremy Allen White was not in attendance. Best Performance in Stand-Up Comedy on Television Jamie Foxx, Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was Nikki Glaser, Nikki Glaser: Someday Youll Die Seth Meyers, Seth Meyers: Dad Man Walking Adam Sandler, Adam Sandler: Love You Ali Wong, Ali Wong: Single Lady Ramy Youssef, Ramy Youssef: More Feelings Wong thanked those connected to her San Francisco comedy roots, This means a lot thank you so much. Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Limited Series, Anthology Series, or a Motion Picture Made for Television Colin Farrell, The Penguin Richard Gadd, Baby Reindeer Kevin Kline, Disclaimer Cooper Koch, Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story Ewan McGregor, A Gentleman in Moscow Andrew Scott, Ripley No-one to thank on this one I did it all by myself, Farrell joked before thanking cast and crew (including catering). I guess its prothetics from here on out. Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Limited Series, Anthology Series, or a Motion Picture Made for Television Cate Blanchett, Disclaimer Jodie Foster, True Detective: Night Country Cristin Milioti, The Penguin Sofia Vergara, Griselda Naomi Watts, Feud: Capote vs. the Swans Kate Winslet, The Regime Foster thanked writer / director Issa Lopez, cast, crew, and the Icelandic Indigenous community, They changed my life. Hopefully theyll change yours, adding, my boys this is for you, and the love of my life, Alex. Best Television Limited Series, Anthology Series or Motion Picture Made for Television Baby Reindeer Disclaimer Monsters: The Lyle & Erik Menendez Story The Penguin Ripley True Detective: Night Country Richard Gadd said, The way you guys have embraced this show is unbelievable. forgive me for telling this messed up story to the world we need stories that speak to the difficult and complicated nature of our times., finishing with a message to streaming commissioners: remember to keep some (money) for the little person to tell their story. Best Television Series: Comedy or Musical Abbott Elementary The Bear The Gentlemen Hacks Nobody Wants This Only Murders in the Building We are so lucky to get to tell this story, said producers. We do have to shoot tomorrow at 6am so if Jean Smart asks you for a shot please do not give it to her. Kate Winslet Im looking at you. Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Series Drama Kathy Bates, Matlock Emma DArcy, House of the Dragon Maya Erskine, Mr. and Mrs. Smith Keira Knightley, Black Doves Keri Russell, The Diplomat Anna Sawai, Shogun Anna Sawai said, Thank you to the voters for voting for me, even though I would vote for Kathy Bates any day. Best Television Series Drama The Day of the Jackal The Diplomat Mr. and Mrs. Smith Shogun Slow Horses Squid Game Co-creator Justin Marks said, Nothing about this show has ever been expected it was made on the back of thousands of yeses over the years. it is a miracle that everyone still has their jobs. Netflix movie Emilia Perez was also a multiple winner. It is yet to premiere in Australia. This post updates. New factual series Eat the Invaders, presented by Tony Armstrong premieres tonight on ABC. In each episode Tony goes to the frontlines of the invasive species war to witness the impact theyre having on our ecology. Each week culinary experimentation occurs in a place known for exploring controversial ideas in art and food: Tasmanias Museum of Old and New Art (Mona). Also featuring are Mona Head Chef Vince Trim, Artist and Curator Kirsha Kaechele biologists Prof. Andrew Lowe & Prof. Phill Cassey plus guests. In episode 1 Tony visits ground zero of the rabbit invasion, exploring why Australia abandoned a beloved cuisine and considers putting underground mutton back on the national menu. The series is produced by Closer Productions. Tony heads to Barwon Park in Winchelsea, Victoria, where English aristocrat Thomas Austin once introduced 24 rabbits, sparking one of the largest bio-invasions in history, all in the name of sport. A CSIRO scientist explains the environmental damage rabbits continue to cause and the science behind various eradication attempts. Will the rabbit problem ever be fully resolved? Tony and historian Guy Hull visit the local butcher to buy wild rabbit but find none available, so they enlist a local hunter. The hunter bags two rabbits and reflects on his 50 years of ferreting for food a once-common practice that has become rare. With the rabbits dressed but no clue how to cook them, Tony and Guy turn to the local Country Womens Association (CWA) for recipes. The women recall childhood memories of hunting, cooking, and eating rabbits, and how the introduction of viruses to control the population wiped out what was once a national dish. After tasting a traditional rabbit stew, Tony wonders if this invasive species could make a comeback on modern dinner plates. At the Winchelsea town hall, Tony tests the CWAs rabbit pies on local kids. Reactions are mixed some enjoy it, while others dont. Invasion biologists Phill and Andy reveal that the rabbit crisis has cost Australia $8 billion, pondering how that money could be allocated to their control. Back at Mona, Tony goes down the rabbit hole with beloved chef Poh Ling Yeow for a high-art feast prepared by Kirsha and Vince. 8:30pm Tuesday January 7 on ABC (all episodes available to stream on ABC iview). 10 recently released a promo for Australian Survivor: Brains v Brawn. Hosted by Jonathan LaPaglia the series is expected to premiere in February. Treachery. Loyalty. Deception. Lies. Chaos. The long-awaited rematch of Australian Survivor: Brains v Brawn, where mind and body battled it out until a Brain stood victorious, returns in 2025. In the most explosive season yet, 12 of the physically strongest and 12 of the most strategic minds will go head-to-head in Samoa for the epic tenth season of Australian Survivor. Ranging from PhD students to teachers and A.I. experts, the Brains tribe are made up of the smartest players who use their intelligence, wits and mental strength to get ahead. They work smarter, not harder and they are ready to take the win again. But the Brawn tribe are ready to knock them off the podium. Their lives are defined by strength and are used to putting their bodies on the line they are courageous, hard working and born competitors. Hungry to settle the score, the tribe will feature rescue firefighters, Olympic sprinters and coaches. In a game where mind and body are once again about to be put to the test, these 24 individuals will attempt to Outwit, Outplay and Outlast to take home the title of Sole Survivor and a life-changing $500,000. ABC Kids series Planet Lulin has been picked up by Nickelodeon UK. Produced by Moody Street Kids and Princess Pictures, the series has been sold by ABC Commercial and will be available across Sky, Virgin Media, and TalkTalk Plus TV as well as Virgin Media Ireland, Eir TV and Sky Ireland. Created by writer Melanie Sano (Neighbours, Larry the Wonderpup) and directed by Craig Irvin (Nowhere Boys), Sarah Hickey (Crazy Fun Park) and Nina Buxton (Paper Dolls), it features Lisa McCune, Kevin Hofbauer, Nina Gallas, Uma Dumais, Max Turner, Cassie Robb, Carlee Clements, Sasha Mandler, and George Rayias. We are excited to have Nickelodeon UK on board our gorgeous little series, the perfect home for heart and comedy says Gillian Carr, MD of Moody Street Kids. Louise Bucknole, General Manager, Kids & Family, Paramount, UK & Ireland said: Fun and engaging with the important theme of self-discovery at its heart, Planet Lulin is a wonderful addition to our comedy line up on Nickelodeon and were excited to bring it to viewers in the UK and Ireland. The ABC is committed to producing world-class childrens content and Planet Lulin is a wonderful example of our dedication to creative storytelling. Planet Lulin is a colourful and imaginative series that has captivated young audiences in Australia. Its quirky characters and intergalactic world have taken viewers on an out-of-this-world experience, making it a standout in the childrens television landscape, says Karen Quinn, Manager, Content Sales, ABC Commercial. Were thrilled that Nickelodeon UK has recognised the shows potential and look forward to sharing this unique Australian production with audiences across The United Kingdom and Northern Ireland. Set to charm 7-12 year-olds across the UK and Ireland, the live action series is a coming-of-age story about a sparky pre-teen girl named Lulin who is going through some little green changes thats what happens when you have a human dad and an extra-terrestrial mum. Lulins dad, Ken, and her extra-terrestrial grandma, Ezme, try to help, but Lulin is the first ever human-Astoradian. No one knows whats going to happen next; especially not with her powers! A vibrant, funny, live-action series, Planet Lulin explores universal themes of self-discovery and belonging while navigating the cosmic shifts of adolescence and growing up. Planet Lulin launched on ABC TV in 2023 and has won over local fans with its zany, colourful sci-fi premise, earning a nomination for the Best Direction in a Childrens Series at the Australian Directors Guild Awards 2024. Poonam Masih, TwoCircles.net Mukesh Chandrakar was not just a name; it was the very identity of Bijapur (Chhattisgarh). For journalists, whether from India or abroad, a visit to Bijapur was incomplete without meeting this young, fearless journalist. Mukesh made his mark with his stories on tribal issues, security forces and Maoist encounters. A stringer for NDTV who also owned a YouTube channel, Bastar Junction, he became a household name. His X profile still proudly displays a pinned video where he managed to bring a CRPF jawan home, who was held hostage by Maoists. Support TwoCircles Mukesh went missing on January 1 night. The Search Begins Mukeshs elder brother, Yukesh Chandrakar, filed a missing complaint on January 2, sharing the news on social media in a desperate plea for help. The police soon traced Mukeshs last phone location to the premises of Suresh Chandrakar, a local contractor, where his employee also resided. As the investigation unfolded, a shocking discovery was made: a freshly cemented septic tank on the premises. Upon further investigation, Mukeshs body was found dumped inside the tank, bearing multiple injury marks on his head and back. Bijapur Superintendent of Police, Jitender Yadav, said, We are questioning many people, including Suresh Chandrakar, because the body was found on his premises. A Family Connection, A Deadly Argument As the investigation deepened, it was revealed that Mukeshs murder was connected to a family. He had a familial relationship with the accused, Ritesh and Suresh Chandrakar. On the evening of January 1, Ritesh invited Mukesh over dinner, but an argument broke out between the two over an interruption in work. In a fit of rage, Mukesh was murdered. Three people Ritesh Chandrakar, Mahendra Ramteke and Dinesh Chandrakar were arrested from Raipur airport. However, the main accused, Suresh Chandrakar, remains at large. After Mukeshs funeral, Bastar IG Sunderraj P. held a press conference where he revealed, After a heated argument over a road contract, Mukesh was struck with an iron rod. He died, and his body was then disposed of in the septic tank. A Journalist Who Took on Corruption Just days before his tragic death, Mukesh had exposed an alleged corruption scandal in a Rs 120-crore road construction project in Bastar. This led the state government set up an inquiry, which scrutinised the road contract given to none other than Suresh Chandrakar. Mukeshs reporting was his lifes work, especially on issues that directly impacted the tribal communities in the region. His death, however, has sparked anger and frustration among journalists, not just in Bastar, but across the nation. Journalists Protest: The Road to Justice Following Mukeshs murder, journalists across the country rallied together in protest. On January 4th, roads were blocked in various parts of Bastar, with demonstrators chanting, Mukesh Amar Rahe in his honor. Mukeshs work, especially his relentless coverage of the tribal issues in Bastar, left an indelible mark. In 2023, Mukesh had travelled deep into the forests of Talmetla, Sukma district, to report on an encounter in which two men were killed by security forces. While the police insisted that the deceased were Maoists, Mukeshs investigative reporting proved otherwise. He uncovered the truth Rava Deva and Sodhi Kosa were not Maoists but innocent tribal men. His courage in the face of such a dangerous story has made his loss even more devastating for his friends and colleagues. The Grief of Mukeshs Friends Ranjan Das, a close friend and fellow journalist, told TwoCircles.net, Losing Mukesh has weakened our reporting. He and I used to work together on so many stories. The discussions about where to go and what to do are now over. It feels like a part of us is gone. Ranjan went on to describe how Mukesh, despite his humble beginnings in the Salwa Judum refugee camp, had always been there for others. Even when I came to Bijapur for the first time, it was Mukesh who gave me a place to stay and helped me report. That kind of help will never be forgotten. A Dangerous Territory for Journalists Journalists in Bastar have long worked in perilous conditions, but after Mukeshs murder, many are questioning whether the threats from contractors are now more dangerous than those posed by Maoists. Just a few days ago, Ravi Sahu, a journalist from Narayanpur district, received a death threat via a note through courier. Ravi said, I filed a police report, and after investigation, it was found that the threat came from Manish Rathore, a contractor in Narayanpur. He is currently out on bail. Ravi also mentioned the impact of such threats on his work: The police have provided me security, but it affects my work. You cant take a gunman everywhere. But I have to do my job, and so I continue. A Nations Loss, A Regions Struggle Mukesh Chandrakars untimely death has left a vacuum in Bastars journalistic community. His courage in exposing corruption, his dedication to tribal issues, and his fierce commitment to truth made him an indispensable voice. But with his murder, a chilling message has been sent: in regions like Bastar, where the nexus of politics, corruption, and violence often intersects, speaking truth may cost more than a journalists careerit can cost a life. As the investigation unfolds, journalists everywhere are demanding justice for Mukesh. His work, his legacy, and the truth he uncovered live on. Mariyam Usmani, TwoCircles.net Rizwana Qureshis world came crashing down on December 30, 2024, when her husband, Shahdeen, 37, was allegedly lynched to death by a mob in Uttar Pradeshs Moradabad. With tears in her eyes, she recalls the horrific moment when she learned of her husbands brutal fate. He was never involved in cow slaughtering; they killed him for being a Muslim, she says, her voice shaking with grief and disbelief. Shahdeen, a daily wage labourer by profession and a bodybuilder by passion, never imagined that a simple call for work would lead him into the jaws of death. Support TwoCircles The tragic events unfolded late that night when someone known to Shahdeen called and asked him to come to the local Sabzi Mandi (vegetable market). Without any clear details, Shahdeen, accompanied by one Adnan, made his way to the market. What awaited him there, however, was not a job, but an alleged vicious assault. Accusing him of cow slaughter, a mob allegedly assaulted him black and blue. His ribs were allegedly crushed and face smashed with iron rods. Adnan managed to escape, but Shahdeen was left behind, unable to defend himself in the darkness between 12 pm and 3 am. Despite the familys desperate attempts to reach him, Shahdeen could not be contacted for several hours. Instead of rushing him to a hospital directly, the badly injured man was allegedly first taken to the local police station and then to the district hospital where doctors referred him to a multi-speciality hospital. He clung to life for a day before succumbing to his injuries the same day. Rizwanas anguish is palpable as she recounts the unbearable pain of losing her husband. Everyone knows how they beat him up. Who gave them the authority to murder? I believe he was trapped, she alleges. Already struggling with health issues, including cardiovascular problems, Rizwana now faces the unbearable grief of widowhood. The police, instead of investigating the mob that killed Shahdeen, took swift action against the deceased and Adnan and charged the duo with cow slaughter. The matter is under investigation. We are examining CCTV footages. We have not arrested anyone yet, says Station House Officer, Majhola, abruptly disconnecting the call when asked about the progress of the case. Meanwhile, Shahdeens brother, Shahzade, who filed the FIR on behalf of the family, accused the police of harassment and verbal abuse. They betrayed my brother, and now we are forced to suffer more. When I was at work, some policemen came to our home and verbally assaulted us, he alleges. Shahzades pain is not just about the death of his brother, but the alleged humiliation and derogatory comments made by the police. There are no limits of hatred against Muslims. Sometimes, it feels like we are nothing. Is there any end to such tragedies? he asks, his words filled with sorrow and frustration. He also accuses a few people of intentionally recording the violent attack to circulate it on social media, in an attempt to provoke further communal tensions. The familys grief deepens as they try to make sense of the motives behind Shahdeens murder. Waris Ahmed, a relative who has been supporting the family, believes the attack was part of a larger, pre-planned conspiracy. The person who called Shahdeen promised him to pay Rs 500. The people who actually slaughtered the cow have not been identified. Aslatpura, where Shahdeen lived, is a Muslim-majority area, but no Muslims are involved in the cow-slaughtering business, he explains. He points out that the method used to slaughter the animal separating its head from its body was haram (forbidden), a practice that no Muslim would follow. The attack, he argues, was deliberately staged to create a false narrative and frame Shahdeen. Video clips of the assault that went viral on social media show the mob chanting aggressive slogans as they beat Shahdeen. It further cements the belief that the attack was driven by communal hatred. The chilling images of the slaughtered cow, with its head severed from the body, have become a symbol of the tragedy. Shahdeens death has left a void in his family, especially for his three young children: Arham (15), Afi (14) and Hafiz (10). The family, already struggling with financial hardships, now faces the added burden of raising three children without a father. Arham, the eldest son, says quietly, I want justice for my father. Rizwana, too, is consumed by the pain of losing her husband. I want two things only punishment for the culprits and support for my children. Anybody can come and stand by me during iddah (the mourning period after a husbands death), but how will I raise my children once the iddah period is over? Her voice cracks as the weight of her grief overtakes her. As the deceaseds family faces ongoing neglect and discrimination, their fight for justice feels like an uphill battle. What you need to know about the latest series of Ben Fogle's New Lives in the Wild Ben Fogle has lifted the lid on the emotional new series of New Lives in the Wild, telling Yahoo: "Prepare to be moved to tears." Happier than ever, Fogle is returning to our screens in the next series of New Lives in the Wild which follows brave individuals who decide to live off-grid. The 50-year-old adventurer become a big name after appearing on Castaway, where he was marooned on a desert island for a year in a social reality TV experiment in 2000. Fogle who compromised on his off-grid living dream previously told Yahoo of the upcoming New Lives in the Wild series: "The standout of this new series is the family who moved to Bulgaria. They bought a house, sight unseen, and moved there. Prepare to be moved to tears at their incredible story." Couple cancel wedding to start new life in Bulgaria Ben Fogle meets Jordan and Lewis. (Channel 5) Lewis and Jordan pulled the plug on their wedding plans to move their young family to a plot of land they bought on the internet in Bulgaria. Initially arriving in the town where they bought the home, Jordan worried, "What the f*** have we done?" ADVERTISEMENT The couple invited Fogle to film their extraordinary life at the two-storey farmhouse, built in the 50s, for reality adventure series New Lives in the Wild. They were just two ordinary people born in Bournemouth in the early 90s who fell in love while living on neighbouring council estates; and at 19 had their first child Leo before going onto work a variety of jobs. Ben Fogle is out on location in New Lives in the Wild. (Channel 5) The journalist told their story to the camera: "Behind the smiles, this young family were struggling to make ends meet. In their small council house, they dreamt of another life where they could rear animals and grow their own food. "In 2022, they saw the opportunity in the form of a run-down property in rural Bulgaria on the market for just 7,000. They cancelled the wedding they had been saving for. They bought the place sight unseen, moving to a country they never visited with little idea of what they would find." What we know about Ben Fogle's New Lives in the Wild Ben Fogle: New Lives in the Wild takes the adventurer all over the world. (Channel 5) New Lives in the Wild captured the amazing stories of individuals who courageously leave behind the rat race to live a simpler life. The latest series has 14 locations from all over the world including Morocco, Australia and Botswana. ADVERTISEMENT "It's bigger and better than ever before," Fogle wrote on Instagram. "14 inspiring stories that will leave you spellbound and sometimes a little tearful. It had been such a privilege meeting some of the most inspiring people, chasing their dreams and pursuing happiness through the simplicity of the wilderness." The new series airs on Channel 5 on Tuesday 7 January. Fogle previously told Yahoo of the series: "We try to find a perfect mix of location, story and character. If we can combine all three then we have a winner." The strangers welcome Fogle into their lives in the wild, thanks to his own openness and vulnerability. He added: "I have always valued authenticity. I have always worn my heart on my sleeve. The show is about them. It makes sure they trust me. We arent there to stitch anyone up. So much TV is gotcha television. Trying to catch people out or criticise. I have never done that. I am not there to judge, but [for them] to share their unique story." The series has been running for 13 years. It follows on from the most recent series of New Lives in the Wild that ran late last year, focusing on revisiting individuals that Fogle had met with in the past including fan favourite Bette in Queensland. Ben Fogle on living in the wild Ben Fogle and his wife Marina Fogle at the BAFTAs. (Getty) Inspired by those magical stories, Fogle said he would dream of moving his family to the wilderness but now realises they are very happy at their home in South Oxfordshire. ADVERTISEMENT He told Good Morning Britain: "My whole family used to dread me coming home (from filming). I'd come home from some of the remotest places, the Falkland Islands, Antarctica and I am a very enthusiastic person. Ben Fogle and his wife Marina, with their son Luda and daughter Iona. (Getty) "I'd say, we are going to move as a family, I've found a little island. I still have that positivity and excitement but I've measured it a little bit to realise that (my family are) very happy in South Oxfordshire where they are now." Fogle raises children Iona and Luda with his wife Marina, whom he married in 2006. Ben Fogle: New Lives in the Wild starts on Tuesday 7 January on Channel 5. HA NOI As we step into the Tet (Lunar New Year), several Vietnamese companies are gearing up to share the festive spirit with their shareholders by doling out lavish bonuses worth billions. The financial landscape is buzzing with anticipation as some prominent firms prepare to celebrate the upcoming Tet holiday in grand style. Viet Nam's traditional Tet falls on January 29. One such company, a Nang Education Development & Investment JSC (DAD) is set to disburse nearly VN7 billion (nearly US$275,000) in dividends on January 22. Shareholders are in for a treat as they stand to receive VN1,500 for each share owned, thanks to a 15 per cent cash dividend payout. With approximately 4.7 million shares in circulation, DAD's dividend distribution is estimated to total around VN7 billion. As of September 30, Viet Nam Education Publishing House Limited Company, holding 41.5 per cent of DAD's capital, is the largest shareholder and is set to receive dividends totaling VN2.9 billion this time. MBBank (MBB) is also making headlines with its dividend plans. The bank will issue close to 796 million shares to existing shareholders, offering a 15 per cent dividend payout. This move is part of a strategic initiative to enhance shareholder value and boost the bank's total charter capital from over VN53 trillion to VN61 trillion. Previously, MB had successfully issued all 19.2 million shares under the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) programme, raising an additional vN192.4 billion and increasing its charter capital to VN53 trillion. MB also plans a private placement of an extra 62 million shares, amounting to a capital boost of VN620 billion. Upon the successful implementation of all capital increment initiatives, MB's total charter capital will stand at more than VN61.6 trillion. Meanwhile, Ho Chi Minh City Infrastructure Investment JSC (CII) is gearing up to distribute dividends amounting to VN160 billion. This dividend package, set to be paid out on January 20, consists of a five per cent cash dividend, including three per cent from the remaining dividends of 2022 and two per cent from the first quarter of 2023. The company's decision to reward shareholders comes after a three-year hiatus in dividend disbursements due to prioritising debt repayment obligations in their Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) contracts. Viet Tri Paper JSC (GVT) is also making waves by announcing a 25 per cent cash dividend payout for the fiscal year 2024. Shareholders can expect to receive a handsome return as the company plans to distribute nearly VN29 billion in dividends. This generous gesture from Vietnamese companies not only adds to the festive cheer, but also underscores their commitment to rewarding shareholders for their continued support. VNS You are here: World Flash Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said on Sunday that Hamas has not provided a name list of Israeli hostages to be released. "Hamas has not transferred a name list of (Israeli) hostages so far," Netanyahu's office said in a statement, denying previous media reports, which, citing a Hamas official, said the group agreed to release 34 hostages. Meanwhile, Israel's state-owned Kan TV reported on Sunday that Mossad chief David Barnea will travel tomorrow to Qatar to take part in the ongoing Gaza ceasefire talks. On Thursday, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad movement said Palestinian factions need a week to prepare and deliver a list of Israeli hostages for exchange during the first phase of a possible ceasefire deal. HA NOI Bitcoin has been predicted to be among the most lucrative investment instruments in 2025, despite having not been legalised in Viet Nam. The year 2024 marks a historic record for the digital currency as its price surpassed US$100,000 per Bitcoin (abbreviated as BTC) on December 5, and reached a peak of $108,000/BTC on December 17. It then dropped to $92,000/BTC on December 20 after the Chair of the US Federal Reserve (FED), Jerome Powell stated that the institution was not allowed to own Bitcoin and did not want to amend the laws to do so. However, the price quickly recovered to nearly $99,000/BTC in the final days of 2024 as large investors continued to buy and hold. By 10:45pm on January 4, 2025, the price-tracking website for cryptoassets CoinMarketCap listed the price at $97,680/BTC, up 0.22 per cent in the last 24 hours. Since the beginning of the year, the price of major cryptos has seen positive growth: Bitcoin increased by 130 per cent, Ethereum by 52 per cent, BNB by 124 per cent and Dogecoin more than 300 per cent. 2024 also marks a historic turning point for cryptos with the emergence of exchange-traded funds (ETF) of Bitcoin and Ethereum the second-biggest cryptocurrency by market capitalisation after Bitcoin. This signals the organised participation of institutional investors and top global professional asset managers in the digital currency market. An ETF is an investment vehicle that pools a group of securities such as stocks, bonds, cryptos and other types of assets into a fund. It can be traded like an individual stock on an exchange. Investors in Bitcoin and other digital currencies look forward to Donald Trumps presidency as he has promised friendly policies towards the crypto industry. A Council of Advisers for Digital Assets is being formed after a letter was sent to the President-elect and the US Congress by the US Blockchain Association, pushing for policies that would promote the adoption of digital assets in the first 100 days of his presidency. Earlier, during his presidential campaign, Trump had repeatedly mentioned the idea of creating a Bitcoin reserve when he took office. Legality in Viet Nam Dr inh Trong Thinh, an economist, said cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, were the most profitable investments in 2024 and will remain so next year. "I believe the price of cryptocurrencies will continue to grow in 2025. This is an unconventional investment channel in Viet Nam, but in reality, many Vietnamese are investing in and holding cryptocurrencies, he said. The Government needs to soon issue a legal framework for digital assets and digital currencies to both protect investors and prevent tax evasion. Because of their perceived lucrativeness, frauds related to digital currency trading are very common in Viet Nam. A prime recent example is the case of Pho uc Nam from Ba RiaVung Tau Province, known on the social media platform TikTok as Mr Pips, who lured more than 2,600 people into foreign exchange and derivatives trading and got assets worth VN5.2 trillion ($211.8 million) seized or frozen by the authorities. Another case is Ho Thi Bich Ngoc from Ha Noi, who performed a similar fraud and appropriated nearly VN500 billion ($19.6 million). Although Viet Nam does not have a legal framework for digital assets, the definitions of digital assets, crypto assets and regulations to manage them have been addressed in the Draft Law on Digital Technology Industry, which has been presented by the Government to the National Assembly for review. In addition, the Politburo has approved the policy for a project to build an international financial centre in HCM City and a regional one in a Nang, which is an opportunity for Viet Nam to pilot the establishment of digital asset exchanges. Legalising digital assets will make Viet Nam a more open environment for business development, said Phan uc Trung, vice chair of the Viet Nam Blockchain Association. Legalising digital assets will help attract more foreign investment and encourage Vietnamese businesses to return to Viet Nam instead of going abroad to register their operations, he said. The authorities also need to have solutions in place to attract good investment flows into this field, while preventing fraudulent exchanges. Trinh Ha, a strategic expert at Exness Investment Bank, said the digital currency investment community is growing rapidly in Viet Nam, as young people have easier access to new technologies and have more knowledge about investment than the previous generation. "The value of digital currencies has risen sharply recently and they will continue to be an attractive financial instrument in the future due to the limited supply, in the case of Bitcoin. This crypto has been recognised globally as an asset recently," he said. About 45 per cent of Bitcoin holders want to keep it long-term, Ha added, which indicates that most crypto investors are long-term investors who expect the value of the asset to increase in the future. VNS HA NOI More small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Viet Nam have integrated environmental, social and government (ESG) practices into their operations amid the global trend of sustainable development and responsible business. SMEs now account for over 95 per cent of the total enterprises in Viet Nam. They also recruit 51 per cent of the social workforce, contributing more than 40 per cent of GDP and 30 per cent of the total State budget revenue. Chairman of Pacific Asia Commercial Dispute Resolution Arbitration Centre Tran Minh Son said many SMEs that paid attention to implementing CSR activities said corporate profits and returns on investment must be viewed in a broader context. That includes socio-economic issues and corporate social responsibility. These companies said they voluntarily pursue social and environmental concerns from labour and employment practices, environmental issues such as biodiversity, climate change, pollution prevention, fighting bribery and corruption to active participation in community activities, Son said. CEO of Viet Truong Co in Hai Phong City, Ngo Minh Phuong, said a company can ensure sustainable business performance when it archives business growth and development goals without having a negative influence on social development and the environment. Integrating ESG practices into their operation could help businesses increase profits, outrank their competition, and affirm their reputation in the business environment, Phuong said. ESG has become mainstream in Viet Nam in recent years, driven by the Vietnamese Governments strong signal to promote ESG-related practices, especially with a strong commitment to the transition to a carbon-neutral economy by 2050 at the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), coupled with investors growing demand for sustainable development. According to the report 'From Ambition to Impact' on Viet Nam ESG readiness, jointly developed by PwC Vietnam and the Viet Nam Institute of Directors, most businesses in Viet Nam are just starting on the ESG journey. Although 80 per cent have made ESG commitments or plan to do so in the next two to four years, there were gaps between ambition and action. PwCs report showed that only 66 per cent have some ESG programmes in place, 24 per cent possess a clear governing structure, five per cent have active board involvement on ESG matters and 28 per cent have strong ESG risk metrics to monitor progress, while 71 per cent lack understanding of data required for reporting and 70 per cent have none or very limited ESG reporting. Experts said that consumers are increasingly concerned about the environmental and social footprint of the products and services they consume. Meanwhile, investors tend to look for environmental, social and governance criteria when making investment decisions. VNS HCM CITY HCM Citys office market has achieved rapid growth fuelled by steady demand and burgeoning supply, reinforcing the citys status as a premier destination for both local and international corporations seeking strategic growth opportunities in Southeast Asia, according to real estate consulting firm Knight Frank. The market absorbed 96,400sq.m of net lettable area in the first nine months of 2024, and the city was on track to achieve its highest net absorption in over a decade. The previous annual peak in recent years was 81,300sq.m in 2019. The performance underscored the strength and resilience of the market. But despite the high absorption rate, rentals had remained relatively stable, due to landlords offering incentives, which fuelled occupancy without significantly increasing rents. Leasing activity was driven by strong demand from companies in the IT, technology, pharmaceuticals, finance, and banking sectors. IT and technology led the way, with both local startups and multinationals seeking modern office spaces to support their rapid expansion. Pharmaceutical companies contributed significantly, securing premium office spaces in response to growing healthcare investments. Meanwhile, the expansion of domestic and international banks has led to larger and more sophisticated office solutions. There was significant leasing activity in newly completed buildings, largely driven by tenant relocations. This trend reflected the ongoing flight-to-quality movement, as tenants increasingly prioritised green-certified office spaces offering modern amenities. Among the standout developments was The METT in District 2, whose occupancy soared from 10 per cent in Q1 to over 80 per cent by Q3, with its prime location in Thu Thiem and modern facilities making it a choice for high-profile tenants. In the citys south, Cobi Tower 1 achieved an impressive 90 per cent occupancy rate in Q3, a 55 percentage point increase year-on-year, thanks to its competitive rents and excellent accessibility. Truong Anh Nguyen, research manager at Knight Frank Vietnam, said: The record performance of HCM Citys office market in 2024 highlights the citys economic resilience and its growing reputation as a magnet for global investors. With sustained demand across key sectors and the rise of premium-grade developments, HCM City is solidifying its position as a leading commercial hub in Southeast Asia. To put this all into context, net absorption of 96,400sq.m is enough space for approximately 13,700 new desks in the city that is a lot of jobs. But other markets in the neighbourhood showed mixed results. In Ha Noi, new supply rose by 18 per cent in the first nine months, but slower absorption in newly launched buildings led to higher vacancy rates. Bangkok experienced a significant decline in new supply compared to 2023, with occupancy rates across all office grades also dropping to their lowest levels since 2019. Jakartas grade A office market continued to face challenges, with vacancy rates exceeding 30 per cent in Q3 2024 and rents under persistent downward pressure. But Kuala Lumpur showed signs of recovery, with grade A vacancy rates declining from 32 per cent to 27 per cent despite new project launches and rising rents. The exceptional performance of the HCM City office market reinforced the citys status as a premier destination for both local and international corporations seeking strategic growth opportunities in Southeast Asia. VNS HA NOI The European-American Market Department under the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) stated it will closely monitor regional developments and policy changes, while enhancing research and exploring opportunities to strengthen Viet Nam's economic and trade cooperation with these countries. Attention will be paid to effectively promoting the implementation of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and existing cooperation mechanisms, along with studying the possibility of upgrading and signing FTAs with potential markets, and strengthening its role as a bridge between domestic production and import-export enterprises and foreign partners. The agencys operations will also focus on providing information on policies and markets to relevant agencies and businesses. Ta Hoang Linh, Director of the Europe-America Market Department, said that in 2024, the department worked with both domestic and international agencies to implement a range of practical solutions and initiatives aimed at helping businesses restore production and boost import-export activities. These efforts have revitalised the domestic market by tapping into traditional markets, expanding potential ones, removing trade barriers, and safeguarding the interests of Vietnamese businesses globally. Statistics from the MoIT show that the trade turnover between Viet Nam and the European-American market last year witnessed a strong recovery and growth, hitting some US$250 billion, up 18.5 per cent compared to 2023. The trade surplus with the market exceeded the $150 billion mark for the first time, reaching $154.2 billion. Viet Nam's export earnings from the US and the EU totaled $119.3 billion and $51.9 billion, expanding by 23 and 18.8 per cent year-on-year, respectively. The country's key export items to the market in 2024 also saw impressive recovery and growth compared to 2023. Specifically, computers, electronic products, and components raked in $34.6 billion, presenting a year-on-year surge of 39.7 per cent. To expand export markets, the department has sought ways to maximise the FTAs between Viet Nam and the EU (EVFTA), the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) (VN-EAEU), and the UK (UKVFTA), the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), and the Viet Nam Chile FTA (VCFTA), among others. The agency is also working hard on pushing negotiations for another FTA with Mercosur - the world's fifth-largest economic bloc comprising Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay. In particular, it participates in supporting the resolution of anti-dumping and anti-subsidy investigations, as well as addressing other trade barriers regarding food safety and hygiene, Sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) control, and standards in goods production and fisheries. The unit has also actively implemented a project to encourage Vietnamese enterprises' direct involvement in foreign distribution networks by 2030. This includes successfully organising a series of international supply chain connection events, such as Vietnam International Sourcing 2024 in HCM City and Vietnam Goods Week in Japan, Germany, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).. VNS HA NOI Viet Nam's total trade revenue reached US$786.29 billion in 2024, up 15.4 per cent year-on-year, with a trade surplus of $24.77 billion, the General Statistics Office (GSO) said at a press conference in Ha Noi on Monday. The December value was $70.53 billion, up 6.2 per cent month-on-month and up 15.9 per cent compared to the same period last year, according to the agency. In 2024, the country's exports expanded by 14.3 per cent to $405.53 billion, while imports grew by 16.7 per cent to $380.76 billion. Of the total export value, the domestic sector contributed $114.59 billion, a 19.8 per cent increase, accounting for 28.3 per cent. The foreign-invested sector, including crude oil, generated $290.94 billion, up 12.3 per cent and making up 71.7 per cent of total exports. As many as 37 key export items generated over $1 billion, collectively accounting for 94.3 per cent of the total exports. Among them, eight exceeded the $10 billion mark, contributing a substantial 69 per cent of the combined value. Meanwhile, of the accumulative import value, the domestic sector went up 19.5 per cent to $140.11 billion, and the foreign-invested sector recorded $240.65 billion, a 15.1 per cent increase. To promote export in 2025, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Phan Thi Thang said that her ministry continues to identify institutional building as one of the three strategic breakthroughs. This year, it will focus on implementing the revised Electricity Law, play a role in building documents guiding the implementation of the law, and perfecting the draft Law on Chemicals for submission to the National Assembly for approval at its ninth session. It will also make efforts to enhance the operational efficiency and competitiveness of industrial manufacturing enterprises, actively summarising mechanisms and policies related to international economic integration. In addition, Viet Nam will optimise the existing free trade agreements (FTAs) and seek to sign new ones to expand and diversify markets, import and export items, and supply chains. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Vo Van Hung said that the ministry would closely coordinate with the Ministry of Industry and Trade and parties to promote the production and consumption of domestic agricultural products, and negotiate to open up and promote export markets for agro-forestry-aquatic products in 2025 and the following years. VNS HA NOI Viet Nam's stock market began the new week with continued losses, as the VN-Index slipped below the critical 1,250-point mark. Liquidity remained low, while foreign investors ended a three-session streak of net selling. On the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HoSE), the VN-Index closed at 1,246.35 points, down 8.24 points or 0.66 per cent. Market breadth remained negative, with 235 declining stocks, 65 advancing, and 53 unchanged. Trading liquidity dipped slightly to approximately VN13.6 trillion (US$535.5 million), representing a 0.5 per cent decrease compared to the previous session. The VN30-Index, which tracks the 30 largest-cap stocks on HoSE, also dropped by 7.54 points, or 0.57 per cent, to 1,313.04 points. Within the VN30 basket, 17 stocks fell, eight advanced and five remained unchanged. The market's overall decline was primarily driven by blue-chip manufacturing stocks. The Vietnam Rubber Group - Joint Stock Company (GVR) suffered the sharpest loss, dropping 2.97 per cent and shaving off 0.85 points from the VN-Index. Other notable laggards included the Masan Group Corporation (MSN), which fell 3.59 per cent, and the Hoa Phat Group Joint Stock Company (HPG), which was down 2.07 per cent. However, gains in select large-cap stocks helped cushion market losses. The Bank for Foreign Trade of Vietnam (VCB) rose by 0.98 per cent, contributing nearly 1.25 points to the VN-Index. Additionally, the Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BID) increased by 1.57 per cent, while the Viettel Post Joint Stock Corporation (VTP) hit its daily limit, surging by 6.93 per cent. Meanwhile, the Hanoi Beer Alcohol And Beverage Joint Stock Corporation (BHN) advanced by 6.51 per cent. Analysts from Viet Dragon Securities said: The market continued its downward trajectory, slipping below the 200-day moving average (MA200) at the 1,251-point level. Liquidity fell slightly compared to the previous session and remained low, indicating limited supply pressure but also cautious investor sentiment. "While the decline was moderated near the 1,245-point support zone, overall recovery signals remain weak. It is expected that the market will continue to receive support at this level in the next session, with the potential for a technical rebound. However, falling below the MA200 could exert continued downward pressure in the near term. Investors are advised to monitor supply and demand dynamics at key support levels to reassess market conditions. It is essential to remain cautious and wait for stronger signals of capital inflow while maintaining a balanced portfolio to mitigate risks. The Ha Noi Stock Exchange (HNX) index also closed lower, shedding 1.2 percent to end at 222.95 points. Trading value on the northern exchange exceeded VN1 trillion, and trading volume exceeded 54.6 million shares. Foreign investors ended their three-session net-selling trend with a net purchase of over VN116 billion worth of shares on HoSE and VN16.5 billion on HNX. VNS VIENTIANE The Nguyen Du Lao-Vietnamese bilingual school kicked off the Spring Culinary Fair 2025 in Vientiane, celebrating the vibrant traditions of the upcoming Lunar New Year (Tet) in an atmosphere bursting with colour, music and enticing aromas of Vietnamese cuisine. The event drew distinguished guests, including representatives from the Vietnamese Embassy in Laos, the General Association of Vietnamese People in Laos, and the Vietnamese Association in Vientiane. It was also designed to foster a deeper appreciation of Vietnamese culinary culture among Lao students. The school grounds were transformed into a bustling spring market, adorned with peach blossoms, apricot flowers, and the iconic banh chung (square glutinous rice cake). Traditional red calligraphy scrolls and other decorations added to the festive ambiance, creating an immersive setting that captivated all who attended. Students delighted the audience with performances of traditional songs and dances. The fair also offered hands-on experiences, allowing students to prepare beloved Vietnamese dishes and join folk games like blind man's buff. The fair is part of the school's regular activities to celebrate major Vietnamese and Lao holidays, thus inspiring students to become cultural ambassadors, excel in their studies and grow into exemplary citizens who will contribute to the enduring Viet Nam - Laos friendship. -- VNA/OVN HA NOI The friendship between Viet Nam and Cuba is very special, built on a foundation of solidarity, cooperation and mutual trust in all areas. The Viet Nam-Cuba Friendship Year 2025 will be an opportunity to honour this unique historical legacy between the two peoples, according to newly-appointed Cuban Ambassador to Viet Nam Rogelio Polanco Fuentes. In an interview with the Vietnam News Agency (VNA) on the occasion of New Year 2025, Polanco Fuentes said that the two nations' friendship is built on a history of close ties throughout their struggles against colonialism and imperialism and the process of building socialism. After the historic visit to Cuba in September 2024 by Party General Secretary and then-State President To Lam, bilateral relations developed to a new, comprehensive level. Both sides need to further promote economic, trade and investment cooperation, as their leaders have shown interest in new and promising projects in such areas as food production, research and development of biopharmaceutical products, energy projects and many other fields. Cuba is committed to creating favourable conditions and offering incentives to encourage Vietnamese businesses to participate in Cuba's socio-economic development, the ambassador stated, adding that it aims to identify new areas of economic, trade and technological collaboration based on Viet Nam's achievements in rapid development. During the Viet Nam-Cuba Friendship Year 2025, the two countries will celebrate the 65th founding anniversary of their diplomatic ties. They will maintain high-level political exchanges, and plan to hold important commemorative events in both Viet Nam and Cuba. In the cultural domain, the two countries will increase exchanges between organisations and artists in the spheres of fine arts, music, cinema, literature and other forms of art. They are expected to hold an exhibition of posters showcasing the solidarity struggle of the people of Cuba and Viet Nam during the 1960s and 1970s. Cuba will establish a department for the study of President Ho Chi Minh's beliefs and teachings to better understand the ideology of the great leader of the Vietnamese people, while a department for the study of Fidel Castro will be established in Viet Nam, in commemoration of the 100th birth anniversary of the Cuban revolutionary leader. Additionally, Cuba will host the sixth theory seminar for the two Parties and the second scientific conference on the revolutionary vision of the two leaders. Notably, in the first half of 2025, the 42nd session of the Intergovernmental Committee is expected to take place, focusing on strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in promoting new projects that bring mutual benefits, the diplomat said. According to the ambassador, Cuba and Viet Nam have proven that building socialism is achievable, with both Parties and States continuously striving to place people at the centre and ensure their full rights. Cuba admires Viet Nam for its socio-economic successes during the "oi moi" (Renewal) period, which is a clear testament to the prosperity of a socialist society under the leadership of the Communist Party of Viet Nam. And Cuba is confident that Viet Nam will successfully organise the 14th National Party Congress in early 2026 and achieve its goal of becoming a developed, socialist-oriented nation with high income by 2045, said Polanco Fuentes. Similarly, Cuba is implementing its socio-economic development programme by 2030, despite being affected by increasing economic, trade and financial sanctions from the US, as well as being unjustly placed in the list of countries sponsoring terrorism. In this context, Cuba has always received strong solidarity from Viet Nam, he stressed. On the occasion of the New Year, the diplomat extended his best wishes for peace, harmony, unity and good health to the people of Viet Nam. He expressed his hope that the new year will bring even more prosperity to the two countries, while further strengthening their special friendship. VNS HA NOI Eighty-three outstanding works winning the third Dien Hong Awards the national press awards on the National Assembly (NA) and Peoples Council were honoured at a ceremony held in Ha Noi on Sunday evening. The organisers handed over eight first, 15 second, 20 third and 40 consolation prizes to the works which were chosen from 4,079 entries of 163 press agencies nationwide. At the ceremony, marking the 79th anniversary of Viet Nams first national election (January 6), NA Chairman Tran Thanh Man highlighted that submissions to the awards demonstrated creative approaches and compelling narratives that resonated with readers and impressed the judging panel. Many articles effectively captured the legislatures efforts and determination to reform and improve its operations throughout 2024. Man expressed his belief that journalists will continue their professional passion, sharp insight and unwavering determination, working alongside the NA to convey its legislation, supreme oversight, and critical decision-making process. He also highlighted the significance of reportages to identify obstacles in both law making and enforcement as well as urgent issues affecting citizens and businesses that require attention from the NA and Peoples Councils so as to strengthen the efficiency of the representative organisations. Additionally, the press has played an important role in spreading a spirit of positivity, aspiration and determination throughout the Party, army and society, he said, pointing out key areas where the media coverage should focus such as Party General Secretary To Lams message about the countrys new era the era of the nations rise, scientific-technological development, digital transformation, administrative reforms, and anti-corruption efforts. The fourth Dien Hong Awards were officially launched at the ceremony, requiring coverage to focus on legislative innovations, oversight activities, and major decisions. VNS HA NOI Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and a high-ranking Vietnamese delegation will visit Laos and co-chair the 47th meeting of the Viet Nam-Laos Inter-Governmental Committee from January 9-10, according to the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs communique. The trip will be made at the invitation of Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone. VNS TRA VINH Farmers in Tra Vinh Province have earned high profit from integrating the cultivation of mangrove forests and aquatic species this year. They have completed harvesting the aquatic species breeding crop under the forest-aquaculture model this year and earned an average profit of VN150 million (US$5,900) per hectare. These aquatic species include shrimp, fish, crabs and bivalve molluscs. These species eat mostly natural food in the forests and are clean products. The prices of these aquatic species products are 20 per cent higher than the prices of industrial bred ones, according to local farmers. Huynh Van Tai of Duyen Hais Long Vinh Commune has implemented the model for eight years on a 4ha of forest land in which he uses 40 per cent of the land area to grow trees and the rest to breed shrimp and mud crabs. Duyen Hai District has about 1,000 households implementing forest-aquaculture farming with a total area of 865ha, according to Pham Thi Hong Diem, deputy head of the district Bureau of Agriculture and Rural Development. The model has the advantages that farmers do not have to worry about disease outbreaks and the cost of animal food is reduced by 80 per cent compared to conventional breeding methods, she said. Farmers can decide when they harvest their shrimp and fish to avoid facing price declines due to oversupply during the main harvest season, she said. The Cuu Long (Mekong) Delta province has about 5,750ha of forest-aquaculture area in the coastal zones of Duyen Hai Town and Cau Ngang, Chau Thanh and Duyen Hai districts. Local authorities have encouraged farmers to expand the model as it offers stable income, adapts to climate change and contributes to increased forest cover. The province has zoned more than 23,980ha of forest land in coastal areas in which about 12,250ha are used to grow mangrove forests and 11,730ha are used for aquaculture. It has implemented support policies to encourage farmers to grow new mangrove forests and breed aquatic species in them. The policies include a subsidy of up to VN37 million ($1,500) per hectare for buying seedlings to grow trees. Forest development The province has 9,620ha of forests as of the end of last year, accounting for 4.1 per cent of its total land. These forests are mostly mangrove forests. The exploitation of forests, the conversion of forests into other socio-economic development purposes and the impact of natural disasters have caused a decline of the provinces natural forests in past years. To recover these forests, the province has strengthened growing new forests in recent years. The province plans to grow 150ha of new forests this year. This year, the province has implemented various forest growing activities, including a Tet (Lunar New Year) tree planting festival, the forest growing activities of MangLub Social Enterprise Vietnam Limited and a project of growing protective forests to cope with climate change in 2021-25. Besides growing forests, the province has strengthened advocacy activities about protecting forests and the ecological environment. The province Forest Protection Sub-department has implemented a model To visit forests and experience growing forests since 2021. The sub-department has organised 23 trips for 933 people to visit forests and grow forest trees as of September this year. These people are mostly students, locals and visitors from other provinces and foreigners. They have planted a total of 933 trees in a total area of 4ha. VNS HA NOI The Ministry of Home Affairs has proposed a series of breakthrough policies aimed at attracting and retaining talented individuals and experts. The ministry recently submitted a draft decree on regulations concerning policies for recruiting and using talented individuals to work in agencies, organisations and units of the Party, State, Viet Nam Fatherland Front (VFF), along with socio-political organisations. This proposal suggested several priority policies for recruiting civil servants and public employees. Notably, outstanding graduates and young talented scientists will be prioritised for recruitment through selection. Ministries, central agencies and local authorities are required to allocate at least 20 per cent of total recruitment quotas for these categories. Additionally, experienced professionals, managers, business executives and leading scientists of Vietnamese origin, who wish to work long-term in the public sector will be considered for direct recruitment as civil servants and public employees. The draft decree specifies that outstanding graduates and young talented scientists recruited into civil servant or public employee roles will receive an additional allowance of at least 150 per cent of their current salary coefficient for a period of five years from the date of recruitment. Professionals, managers, business executives and leading scientists of Vietnamese origin recruited into the public sector will be appointed to appropriate positions and corresponding salary grades, with an additional allowance of at least 300 per cent of their current salary. For professionals, managers, business executives and scientists (whether Vietnamese or foreign nationals) hired under labour contracts, the head of the respective ministry, central agency or local authority may determine remuneration based on job requirements, individual capacity and contributions. The ministry also proposed that after recruitment, outstanding graduates and young talented scientists should be given opportunities for further study and skill enhancement. They may be sent to participate in domestic and international training courses and considered for leadership, management or specialist roles in various fields at both central and local levels. Capable scientific researchers will be groomed to become leading scientists or experts in their respective fields, entrusted with leading research projects at the ministerial or provincial levels and considered for promotion to senior expert ranks or equivalent. For professionals and managers, the draft decree suggests allowing authorised agencies to appoint them to leadership or management positions or place them in roles requiring senior or principal expert qualifications. In cases where they do not yet meet the required qualifications, the head of the agency will facilitate opportunities for them to fulfil the necessary standards. To attract overseas Vietnamese or foreign professionals, managers, business executives and leading scientists, the ministry has proposed simplifying documentation requirements and expediting the issuance of visas, residency permits and work permits in Viet Nam. According to the draft decree, family members (parents, spouse, biological or adopted children under 18) of these individuals will receive support from local authorities and relevant agencies concerning employment procedures, school admissions, and study opportunities in Viet Nam. During their tenure in Viet Nam, professionals, managers and leading scientists will be exempt from personal income tax on income derived from tasks performed under their contracts. They will also be granted multiple-entry visas or temporary residence cards valid for the duration of their labour contracts. VNS BINH INH The Theory Meets Experiment: Astrophysics and Cosmology (TMEX2025) international conference opened in Quy Nhon City in the south-central province of Binh inh on Monday. The event is co-organised by the Rencontres du Vietnam Science Association, the International Centre for Interdisciplinary Science and Education (ICISE), and the Institute for Research on the Fundamental Laws of the Universe (IRFU) under Frances Atomic Energy and Alternative Energies Commission (CEA). The conference brings together nearly 60 delegates, including experts, scientists, and young researchers from 16 countries, including the US, Morocco, Spain, France, Belgium, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, Poland, Pakistan, India, China, the Republic of Korea, Indonesia, Japan, and Australia. In his opening speech, Tran Thanh Son, deputy director of ICISE, said that TMEX2025 is the first international scientific conference of 2025. Held biennially, the conference has become a prestigious scientific meeting point for the theoretical and experimental research community in particle physics and cosmology. Participants shared the latest research findings and explored new directions in astrophysics and cosmology. Key topics discussed included dark matter, gravitational wave detection, and the advancements in multi-messenger astronomy, which present both challenges and opportunities for the scientific research community. The organisers highlighted that the conference not only fosters international collaboration but also provides a platform for graduate students and young researchers to connect with leading scientists, opening pathways for future development. The conference features 52 presentations in plenary sessions, covering topics such as cosmology, gamma rays, neutrinos, dark matter, cosmic rays, gravitational waves, future experiments and research facilities, time-domain astronomy, and multi-messenger astronomy. The event is scheduled to close on January 11. VNS How have member companies of the Korean Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam overcome 2024s complexities? Choi Bundo, chairman of the Korean Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam 2024 has indeed been a challenging year for South Korean companies amid global economic uncertainty and rapidly changing market conditions. However, member companies have been tackling these obstacles creatively by leveraging their strengths. For instance, to counter the low-cost strategies of local Vietnamese and Chinese competitors, South Korean companies are focusing on improving product quality, enhancing customer service, and increasing production efficiency. Efforts to diversify sales markets are also noteworthy; many are expanding beyond Vietnam to North America and Europe, mitigating risks through market diversification. Additionally, to address skilled labour shortages and rising wages, member companies have been implementing robust employee training programmes and adopting advanced technologies like automation systems. By doing so, they are turning challenges into opportunities. How has South Korean investment in Vietnam flowed this year, and were there any major differences from previous years? Unlike the past when they focused on traditional manufacturing, we are now seeing a shift towards high-tech industries such as semiconductors, electric vehicles, and renewable energy. For example, Samsung is maintaining its annual investment scale of approximately $1 billion while adding $1.8 billion to build a new display factory. Similarly, LG Electronics is committing $4 billion to transform Vietnam into a key production hub in Asia. What sets 2024 apart from 2023 is that South Korean companies no longer see Vietnam merely as a production base. They now view it as an innovative business partner, focusing on technology development and sophisticated business models. What is the South Korean business perspective on the local business climate? The Vietnamese government has been making consistent efforts to improve the business environment to attract foreign investment. Its commitment to enhancing the investment climate and providing stronger support for foreign-invested enterprises is particularly commendable. However, challenges remain. Delays in VAT refund processes, inconsistencies in administrative practices across regions, and sudden policy changes continue to pose difficulties for businesses. To address these issues, it is essential to streamline administrative procedures, ensure policy consistency, and enhance transparency. Additionally, to drive long-term economic growth, greater support for small- and medium-size enterprises in key industries such as materials, components, and equipment is crucial. These businesses serve as the backbone of the economy, and strengthening them will contribute significantly to the stability and growth potential of the entire industrial ecosystem. If the government implements these improvements and support measures, both foreign-invested and local enterprises will gain the confidence needed to actively contribute to Vietnams socioeconomic development. Looking forward, what are their expectations and plans in Vietnam? Green growth, sustainability, and digital transformation will indeed be central themes in 2025. In green growth, renewable energy projects are expected to expand further, with active investments from South Korean companies in sectors like solar and wind energy. For sustainability, there will be a greater focus on environmental, social, and governance standards, sustainable supply chain management, and business models incorporating social responsibility. Regarding digital transformation, investments in advanced technologies such as AI and cloud services will rise. We will also see accelerated adoption of cashless payments and smart manufacturing technologies. South Korean companies specialising in smart manufacturing are likely to play an increasingly prominent role in Vietnam. One of the top expectations from companies is increased administrative efficiency. Simplified investment procedures and reduced administrative costs for foreign-invested companies would significantly streamline operations. Korea-Vietnam ties reach top-tier status South Korea and Vietnam have agreed on an upcoming plan to elevate bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership during a foreign ministerial meeting in Hanoi in late October, marking 30 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. South Korean giants expand investment in high-tech sphere South Korean groups are seeking to reinforce their footprints in a wide range of green and high-tech ventures in Vietnam. By embracing a purpose-driven approach, the company continues to create shared value for consumers, communities, and the planet, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable growth in Vietnam. Integrating sustainability into growth agenda Mondelez Kinh Do has solidified its leadership in sustainability and workplace excellence, earning a spot in the Top 100 Sustainable Businesses of 2024 (CSI100) by the VCCI and Vietnam Business Council for Sustainable Development for the third time. Additionally, the company was named one of Vietnams Top 100 Best Places to Work in 2024 by Anphabe and Intage for the fifth consecutive year, and it received the Happiness at Work Certification 2024 and the Best Companies to Work for in Asia 2024 by HR Asia. These accolades highlight Mondelez Kinh Dos exceptional dedication to employee wellbeing and fostering a supportive, positive work environment. By embedding sustainability into its growth strategy, Mondelez Kinh Do has positioned itself as a leader in the snacking industry. We are a combination of a very big global organisation with a very clear local heart, and we are committed to bringing all the global know-how that we have around the world to grow this market in a responsible way, said Anil Viswanathan, managing director of Mondelez Kinh Do. Anil Viswanathan, managing director of Mondelez Kinh Do With a mission to lead the future of snacking by offering the right snack, for the right moment, made the right way, Mondelez Kinh Dos sustainability strategy is built on three pillars: environmental responsibility, economic resilience, and caring for people and communities. These principles ensure that the company drives both growth and meaningful positive change. Environmental responsibility is at the core of Mondelez Kinh Dos operations. We are committed to achieving net-zero by 2050, and our commitments are aligned with Vietnams national targets, Anil said. Mondelez Kinh Dos environmental responsibility efforts are centred on sustainably sourced ingredients, innovative packaging, and carbon reduction. The company has developed a comprehensive ecosystem for cage-free eggs, aligning with global commitments to sustainable sourcing. This initiative addresses animal welfare and environmental concerns, earning strong support from environmentally conscious consumers, said Anil. Vietnams gifting culture often involves significant use of paper packaging during festivals. Mondelez Kinh Do has expanded efforts to introduce recyclable and compostable packaging, aiming for 100 per cent recyclable packaging in 2025. Collaborations with key partners, including PRO Vietnam, Dong Tien, and Vinh Xuan, play a vital role in driving the circular economy and promoting sustainable practices in paper packaging. Mondelez Kinh Do collaborates with key partners in paper packaging to drive the circular economy As part of its circularity initiative, the company is reducing material usage, incorporating rPET in primary packaging, minimising ink use, and promoting recyclability. These innovations address consumer demand for environmentally responsible products while reducing the companys environmental footprint. Mondelez Kinh Do is advancing renewable energy initiatives to ensure efficient operations and move towards carbon neutrality. Solar power projects at its manufacturing facilities exemplify this commitment. With the first phase completed in the North and similar projects underway in the South, Mondelez Kinh Do demonstrates its dedication to combating climate change. Creating a best-in-class workplace At Mondelez Kinh Do, sustainability extends to its people, who are at the heart of the companys robust and sustainable growth. Mondelez Kinh Do was recognised as one of the Best Companies to Work for in Asia 2024 by HR Asia We place our workforce at the centre of our business, guided by our core value of Grow Every Day. By emphasising employee wellbeing, diversity, and professional advancement, we have consistently been recognised for our exemplary workplace culture and high levels of employee satisfaction, said Tran Ngoc Lien, HR director. Mondelez Kinh Dos policies equip employees with future-ready skills, promote cross-departmental collaboration, and drive innovation. The company also offers comprehensive wellness programmes, including flexible work arrangements, mental health resources, and engaging wellness activities, reflecting its commitment to fostering a thriving and engaged workforce. Tran Ngoc Lien, HR director of Mondelez Kinh Do The companys focus on diversity and equity is evident, with over 50 per cent of management roles filled through internal promotions and women holding more than 55 per cent of senior leadership positions. Mondelez Kinh Dos commitment to cultivating a happy and inclusive work environment not only enhances individual capabilities but also strengthens employee engagement and loyalty, contributing to a resilient and sustainable enterprise, Lien said. Mondelez Kinh Dos achievements establish a strong foundation for its future ambitions. With a clear vision of leading the future of snacking, the company is setting new benchmarks for sustainable growth, where business success and positive social impact coexist harmoniously. Mondelez Kinh Do focuses on growth culture In the ever-shifting Vietnamese business landscape, good leadership and a culture of winning can be vital for sustained success. Anil Viswanathan, managing director of Mondelez Kinh Do Vietnam, spoke to VIRs Bich Ngoc about the company's culture and leadership. Mondelez Kinh Do signs sustainability agreement Mondelez Kinh Do Vietnam has taken a significant step towards promoting sustainability by signing a strategic cooperation agreement with Dong Tien Paper Co., Ltd. and Vinh Xuan Paper Co., Ltd. The increase in consumer spending drove total retail sales of goods and revenue from consumer services in November to a growth rate of 8.8 per cent compared to the same period last year. Decent offers draw the attention of the typical consumer, photo Le Toan According to the General Statistics Office (GSO), total retail sales of goods and consumer service revenue for November reached $22.48 billion, with key drivers of growth including food and beverages, accommodation services, dining, and travel. Overall, in the first 11 months of the year, retail sales of goods and consumer service revenue surpassed $232 billion, an 8.8 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2023. Retail sales alone accounted for nearly 77 per cent of the total, reaching $180 billion. Key categories such as food, apparel, and non-automotive vehicles recorded growth rates of 7-11 per cent. The hospitality and dining services sector also emerged as a bright spot, generating $26.76 billion, or 11.5 per cent of total consumer spending. Meanwhile, tourism services generated $2.3 billion, marking a robust 17.3 per cent on-year increase. This growth reflects concerted efforts by localities to promote tourism and attract visitors from near and far. With a series of consumer-focused initiatives planned for the end-of-year period, the GSO expects the retail and services sectors to continue this trajectory. Groups such as Central Retail have seized the moment. Nguyen Minh Tuan, director of the Go! Thang Long supermarket, part of Central Retail, credited promotional campaigns for driving consumer purchasing power. We have participated in promotional programmes initiated by the Hanoi Department of Industry and Trade to stimulate consumption, and have worked closely with suppliers to ensure abundant stock and attractive deals for customers, Tuan told VIR. In addition to offering discounts, Central Retail has committed to maintaining price stability across its network. This is particularly crucial during the lead-up to Lunar New Year, when shopping demand peaks and consumer preferences shift. We strive to meet the diverse needs of our customers while ensuring reasonable prices to deliver the best shopping experience, added Tuan. From a consumer perspective, promotional campaigns have proven highly appealing. Dao Thu Trang, a 36-year-old office worker in Hanoi, said that year-end sales have significantly influenced her familys shopping habits. Recently, Ive noticed many discounts and promotions, especially towards the end of the year. These offers have truly drawn my attention and encouraged my family to spend more on household goods and clothing, Trang said. However, I still prioritise essential items, as their prices remain relatively stable. This helps me manage my budget effectively while enjoying quality products. Similarly, Nguyen Thi Lan Phuong, a 50-year-old housekeeper in Danang, observed that high-end items have become more accessible due to generous discounts, allowing her to spend more comfortably. I mainly focus on purchasing food and necessities for my family. The prices of these items have remained stable, making monthly spending manageable. However, Ive also noticed that premium items like electronics and fashion are now often on sale. This has made me consider purchasing better-quality products that I previously found too expensive. Such promotional strategies are clearly effective, at least for me, Phuong said. The Lunar New Year shopping season demands agility and adaptability from businesses to respond to the ever-changing market landscape. Vietnams retail market in 2024 has witnessed significant shifts in consumer behaviour, an observation shared by experts at the Tet 2025 Shopping Trends seminar, held in Ho Chi Minh City on December 2. According to Vu Kim Hanh, chairwoman of the High Quality Vietnamese Products Business Association, the unpredictability of peak shopping seasons demonstrates that Vietnams retail market is becoming harder to forecast, with consumer behaviour evolving rapidly. To enhance competitiveness during Lunar New Year, businesses must excel in promotions and logistics while focusing on consistent quality and pricing. Our association continues to provide market updates and practical solutions to support Vietnamese enterprises in navigating the volatility of domestic and global markets, Hanh said. Sales of consumer goods and services in Hanoi reach VND780 trillion Total retail sales of consumer goods and services in Hanoi in the first 11 months of 2024 reached VND780.1 trillion ($32.5 billion), up 10.9 per cent on-year. Vincom Retail named among Forbes Vietnam's top 25 leading brands Vincom Retail was the only enterprise in the retail real estate sector to make its way onto the list of Forbes Vietnam's top 25 leading brands in December. At last weeks conference on the issue in Hanoi, organised by the Vietnam Association of Foreign Invested Enterprises, the Indian Embassy to Vietnam said that economic ties are set to further flourish, thanks to the upgrade of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) in 2025. Trade gathering pace with India, (Photo: theaseanmagazine.asean.org) After the sixth meeting regarding the upgrade in November in Delhi, the seventh meeting will be held in Jakarta in February. The new AITIGA will offer simple trade mechanisms that will be user-friendly, making it more favourable for India-Vietnam trade. It is expected to enhance and diversify trade while bringing symmetry in the bilateral trade between ASEAN countries and India. Under the existing deal, ASEAN member states and India have agreed to open their respective markets by progressively reducing and removing duties on 76.4 per cent of goods and liberalising tariffs on over 90 per cent of goods. According to the ASEAN Secretariat, the new version of the agreement will be aimed to make it more convenient for enterprises of the participating economies, therefrom helping increase trade and investment cooperation between India and Vietnam in particular and between India with the other ASEAN member states. The Indian Embassy last week cited fresh figures from the General Department of Vietnam Customs as reporting that both nations trade turnover has seen an annual growth rate of 11 per cent over the past 10 years, reaching $14.3 billion last year, and an estimated sum of more than $15 billion in 2024. Over the past decade, Indias exports to Vietnam has increased by 7.2 per cent annually to $5.9 billion, while Vietnams to India has also risen by 14.8 per cent annually to $8.4 billion. According to the embassy, Vietnams export value to India has soared by 17.5 per cent over the past three years. The two countries have also been conducting positive discussions on boosting cooperation in the new sectors such as infrastructure, electricity, and pharmacy. According to statistics from the Vietnamese Ministry of Planning and Investments Foreign Investment Agency, Indian funding in Vietnam now stand at $1.12 billion [for 430 valid ventures], but the Indian side reports that the figure hits $2.2 billion, the embassy stated. Indian investment into Vietnam has increased by 15.8 per cent over the past 10 years. The embassy stated that there will be numerous opportunities for India and Vietnam to further cement trade cooperation, especially in the promising sectors of agriculture, chemical, electricity, electronics, gemstones, jewellery, renewable energy, infrastructure, IT, and emerging technology. In July 2024, during a state visit to India by Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Vietnam and India also pledged to amplify bilateral ties in high-profile areas including science and technology, especially in core technology, semiconductors, AI, innovation, and exploitation and processing of rare earths. They also committed to strengthen cooperation in IT development and training, with a direction towards establishing a digital partnership. To this end, Vietnam also suggested that India remove non-tax measures against Vietnam, and soon work with Vietnam to sign a bilateral free trade agreement, which, together with the AITIGA upgrade, will help boost trade and investment flows through removing tax and technical barriers. A document delivered at the conference last week showed that India, in recent years, has implemented many trade defence instruments against goods from ASEAN in general and Vietnam in particular. For example, India has been applying BIS standards to imported products such as iron and steel, and leather and footwear. This has forced many Vietnamese exporting enterprises to apply for BIS certificates from India. The procedure for applying for BIS certificates is very complicated, and many Vietnamese enterprises cannot apply for certificates and cannot export, the document read. BIS refers to Bureau of Indian Standards, which is the National Standards Body of India under the Department of Consumer Affairs of Indias Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. In addition, India has also been applying anti-dumping investigation on goods from Vietnam such as calcium carbonate filler, stainless steel pipes, copper wires and tubes, and nylon, among others. It also uses measures to restrict the import of incense sticks and incense powder from Vietnam, while also applying minimum prices on Vietnamese pepper products. Many Indian companies are interested in putting money into Vietnam in sectors including infrastructure and renewables. Adani Group is planning to strengthen cooperation with Vietnamese partners in aviation and logistics via construction of Long Thanh and Chu Lai airports. Adani has funded Lien Chieu Port in the central city of Danang, at a cost of about $2 billion. It has also put money into its Phuoc Minh wind power plant and Phuoc Minh solar plant. It is reported that Adani also wants to engage in other energy projects in the south-central province of Binh Thuan, specifically Vinh Tan 3 thermal power plant, with a total backing of around $2.8 billion. In July 2024 in India, PM Chinh met with leaders of SMS Pharmaceuticals Ltd. and Sri Avantika Contractors. The groups said they had forged a partnership with a Vietnamese company to develop a pharmaceutical park in the north-central province of Thanh Hoa. The initiative is reported to have an initial investment of about $1 billion for the first phase, before an additional $4-5 billion coming in future phases over the next decade. Elsewhere, BDR Pharmaceuticals International is producing pharmaceuticals, cancer drugs, and more in many nations. The company has been operating a representative office in Vietnam since 2022, and is currently supplying pharmaceutical input materials for churning out cancer drugs for a number of factories in Vietnam. Sandeep Arya, Indian Ambassador to Vietnam We view rising opportunities for greater investment between India and Vietnam, and we are witnessing a more active interest among Indian companies towards Vietnam and vice versa. Indian investors in Vietnam are expanding their existing backing in the area of vehicle components, food-processing, consumer goods, energy, miscellaneous manufacturing, and IT services. It was useful that Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh reached out directly to Indian businesses at a forum in Delhi in 2024 and also individually met the heads of numerous Indian corporations and specialised companies in areas of promise. Vietnam has particularly welcomed investments from India in infrastructure, high technology, IT, manufacturing and supporting industries, textiles, vehicles, agriculture, innovation, semiconductors, renewable energy, biogas and polyester fabrics, and much more. In early 2024, VinFast announced funding for e-vehicle production in India, while FPT is also deepening its presence in India. We also encourage further investments from Vietnam in agriculture, agro-processing, aquaculture, wood processing, urban development, production of bamboo and forestry products, hospitality and tourism, digital technology, e-vehicles, and healthcare and related services in India. We recognise that investment flow is a process ranging from informing businesses about opportunities, understanding the legal environment, building partnerships, and implementation. Efforts at all levels are in progress involving numerous businesses in both India and Vietnam, and I hope to see the value of $2 billion between the two economies grow in the coming years. Phan Thi Thang, deputy Minister of Industry and Trade There is a lot of room for Vietnam and India to further deepen the economic and trading relationship, based on a good political and diplomatic relationship. Since upgrading to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2016, the number of visits and discussions between the two countries leaders is soaring. In 2024, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh paid a visit to India that gained fruitful outcomes in terms of economics, and trade, as well as opened up some opportunities for businesses of the two countries. Both Vietnam and India are stable-growth economies. The International Monetary Fund reported that these two countries are in Asias top 15 biggest economies. In 2025, Vietnams economy may reach $506 billion, and the government sets the goal of GDP growth at over 8 per cent. These are the most important factors to call for investment and facilitate production and business. Moreover, the industry structure of the two countries is complementary. Both Vietnam and India have a huge demand for goods from each other. So Vietnam can provide diversified goods to India, such as agricultural and aquatic products, spices, machinery and equipment, spare parts, electronic equipment, chemical products, fertilisers, consumer goods, and handicrafts. On the contrary, India supplies raw materials for Vietnams domestic production industries such as textiles, footwear, pharmaceuticals, components, spare parts, and animal feed. Based on the traditional friendship, the economic and trade cooperation between Vietnam and India will certainly develop more strongly, contributing to the common prosperity of the business community and people of the two countries. Vietnam and India eagerly explore partnerships in healthcare and pharmaceuticals Vietnam's fast-growing healthcare and pharmaceutical market is fertile land for Vietnamese and Indian businesses to explore partnership opportunities. Special Diwali night held in Hanoi On November 12, Diwali Night 2022 was held in Hanoi by the Indian Business Chamber in Vietnam (INCHAM). How do you assess Vietnam-US trade relations in the short and long term following the US election results, and what new trends might emerge? Nguyen Thuong Lang, senior lecturer at the National Economics University. When Donald Trump becomes US president, the short-term growth rate of Vietnam-US trade relations is unlikely to see much change, as both sides need to maintain stability to avoid economic disruptions, especially as both nations are still recovering from the pandemic. However, in the long term, trade and investment between the two countries are likely to grow strongly because the incoming president holds a hardline stance against China and may continue imposing protectionist barriers. With such measures, China, possessing vast investment resources and a large-scale manufacturing sector, will tend to shift investments and production to other countries to bypass US protectionist barriers. Vietnam will undoubtedly be Chinas top choice thanks to its geographical proximity and political reliability. Investment flows and supply chains from China to the US may likely shift through Vietnam as an intermediary hub. This is a significant opportunity for Vietnam to absorb investment flows from China and other partners, as well as expand its supply chain for goods with China. In fact, Vietnams export growth rate to the US almost parallels its import growth rate from China. The new US president will be a key catalyst to expand the Vietnam-US trade scale, potentially creating a unique trade triangle between the US, Vietnam, and China. How will potential protectionist policies from the US impact Vietnams key export sectors such as seafood, textiles, wood products, and electronics? The next US presidents protectionist policies are highly recognisable and relatively clear, mainly focusing on tariffs or other trade protection measures. These policies are fundamentally aligned with World Trade Organization principles, ensuring fairness and transparency. Over the 30 years since normalising bilateral relations, Vietnams export scale to the US has grown almost exponentially. This means that Vietnams exports significantly impact US import-substitution industries. Therefore, there is a high likelihood that trade defence measures such as anti-dumping, countervailing duties, safeguards, and anti-circumvention measures will be increasingly applied. Vietnam holds a comparative advantage over the US in key sectors like seafood, textiles, wood products, and electronics. The impact of boosting exports in these sectors could exceed Vietnams expectations, helping these products penetrate deeper into the US market. However, since Vietnam has not been recognised as a market economy, it still faces risks of anti-dumping accusations if appropriate mechanisms and adjustments are not implemented. With the US aim to reduce dependence on China in the global supply chain, what should Vietnam do to maximise this opportunity, particularly as American businesses may expand production in Vietnam? The US strategy to reduce dependence on China in the global supply chain aligns with the broader US-China competition strategy. To achieve this, with around $600 billion worth of goods imported annually from China, the US needs to diversify its markets and build alternative supply chains. In this context, Vietnam, having upgraded its relations with the US in September 2023 to a comprehensive strategic partnership, needs to strengthen this substantively and effectively while proactively integrating into US supply chains or building new ones. Vietnam can thoroughly study the US supply chain control strategy to identify appropriate entry points depending on the type of product, technology, or service. Specifically, the countries should prioritise cooperation in high-tech projects and the manufacturing of precision products, such as aerospace, medical equipment, automation, semiconductors, renewables, and green energy. Vietnam must create better conditions to attract US investment in these sectors, prioritising joint ventures that deliver mutual benefits and align with the long-term strategies of both nations. Thus, a synchronised, effective, and sustainable joint supply chain development strategy is necessary to ensure mutual benefits and collective growth. Can Vietnam attract foreign investment that shifts away from China in this context, and which sectors in Vietnam will benefit the most? If the US imposes high tariffs on goods from multiple countries, Vietnam will have additional opportunities to expand exports of key items such as textiles, seafood, wood products, and electronics. Profits from increased exports to the US may attract strong foreign investment inflows, including from China, for production and exports from Vietnam to the US. China excels in manufacturing renewable energy equipment, such as solar panels, wind turbines, highway infrastructure, ships, steel, and electric vehicles. When faced with tariff barriers, Chinese businesses may shift investments into Vietnam for these sectors. Additionally, investments in electronics components and textile raw materials production will likely increase to meet export demands. The metallurgy sector, particularly steel, also has potential to draw in investment under this trend. This is an opportunity for Vietnam to select high-quality, low-cost, and reliable investors. At the same time, it enables domestic businesses to learn, collaborate, and enhance competitiveness in these industries. Retail and services expected to maintain robust trajectory With positive signals in retail and services, continued robust growth in retail sales of goods and consumer service revenues is forecast. Domestic groups seize upon deals Dealmaking by Vietnamese firms is expected to be more vibrant, driven by several factors that support strategic growth, market expansion, and consolidation in various industries. The Elko Police Department arrested 37-year old Donald Rosenauer from Elko for open murder on Friday, January 3. The charge stems from a child abuse investigation that began on New Year's Eve. On December 31, Elko Police were contacted by the Northeastern Nevada Regional Hospital regarding an 7-month old girl who was brought into the ER and was unresponsive. Elko Police Detectives interviewed both the mother and father of the child, who claimed that the infant rolled off of a couch, leading to her injuries. Medical staff reported that the girl was suffering from a brain bleed, hemorrhaging in both eyes and bruising to the chest - injuries consistent with a traumatic event. The detectives found that Rosenauer was alone with the girl when the injuries happened, leading to her death. The infant was flown to Salt Lake City for advanced care, but was taken off of life support on January 3. Officials say the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Corporal Checketts at (775) 777-7310 or Secret Witness at (775) 322-4900. I really wasnt expecting that," said Demi Moore at the Golden Globes Jan. 5, after she stunned everyone in Hollywood by winning the Golden Globe for female lead actor in a motion picture musical or comedy in The Substance. "Im just in shock right now." Its her first major industry acting honor at 62. Moore is also up for an AARP Movies for Grownups Award, so watch PBS on Sunday, February 23, 2025 at 7 PM ET/6 PM CT. Members only Ive been doing this a long time, like over 45 years," said an emotional Moore, "and this is the first time Ive ever won anything as an actor, and Im just so humbled and so grateful." Though shes been nominated for three Golden Globes, shes never won a prestigious award of any kind, despite starring in movies that grossed over $1.6 billion. Thirty years ago, I had a producer tell me that I was a popcorn actress. And at that time, I made that to mean that (an award) wasnt something that I was allowed to have. That I could do movies that were successful, that made a lot of money, but that I couldnt be acknowledged. I bought in, and I believed that, and that corroded me over time, to the point where I thought a few years ago that maybe this was it. She almost quit the business because of Hollywoods sexism towards actresses over 50 and then she got the script for The Substance, an over-the-top horror flick about that very topic. Her character takes a substance that splits her into herself and a younger self, played by 30-year-old Margaret Qualley, who joined Moore on the Globes stage for a funny reprise of their intergenerational rivalry in the film. Ill just leave you with one thing I think this movie is imparting, Moore said, cradling her statuette. In those moments when we dont think were smart enough or pretty enough or skinny enough or successful enough or basically just not enough, I had a woman say to me, Just know, you will never be enough, but you can know the value of your worth if you just put down the measuring stick. Moore kicked open a door for all actresses of a certain age, and her dazzlingly eloquent, deeply moving Golden Globes speech was a brilliant performance in its own right. It will improve her future. Said Variety pundit Jenelle Riley, 52, Demi Moores Golden Globes speech might have just secured her an Oscar nomination. Oscar nominations are announced Jan. 17, 2025. How the New Syrian Regime Seeks to Reassure Christians The Syrian Catholic Church of Saint Ephrem in Aleppo, Syria. ( Preacher lad/Wikimedia Common) The meeting was announced barely 24 hours in advance. Yet, at the call of the new master of Damascus, most Christian leaders gathered in the Syrian capital. On December 31, Ahmed al-Sharaa hosted leaders of all Christian churches present in the country: Catholic, Anglican, Syriac, Maronite, and others. The past of Syria's new leader, a former head of the Syrian branch of Al-Qaeda, has raised significant concerns both domestically and internationally about the future of minorities, particularly Christians. This unease is reflected in the recent visit by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot to Damascus Christians on January 3. However, al-Sharaa sought to project an image of openness. The attendees described the meeting's tone as "positive." 'A year of peace' "All or nearly all the bishops present had the opportunity to speak, sharing their concerns and the fears of the Syrian people living in poverty," said Syriac Archbishop Jacques Mourad of Homs. For his part, the new Syrian leader emphasized the importance of collaboration among all segments of society to support the government in rebuilding the state. According to Archbishop Mourad, al-Sharaa notably avoided using the term "minority." "He said that Christians and other groups are part of the Syrian people," the archbishop added. "He is aware that we Christians are foundational to this country." Such a meeting was described as "an event unimaginable in Syria's history just three weeks ago," according to Cardinal Mario Zenari, Apostolic Nuncio to Syria, speaking to Vatican News. "I have heard some testimonies, and the bishops and priests who attended left with a glimmer of hope for Syria's future. Ahmed al-Joulani (the new leader's wartime alias, Ed.) promised this would be an inclusive Syria for all. He wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a year of peace." In Syria, the transition following 50 years of Assad family rule remains uncertain, said Archbishop Mourad. Surprised by how quickly they ousted the previous regime, the new leaders "are still unprepared and uncomfortable" governing an entire nation. "But they are managing the country as if they plan to stay for the long term," he noted, pointing to efforts to print new currency, draft a new constitution, and revise school curricula. Concerns over new constitution These developments have raised concerns, especially among Christians. What role will Islam play in the new Syria? What freedoms will religious minorities have? School textbooks have become a focal point of criticism. On January 1, the Ministry of Education announced "modifications" to remove propaganda from the former regime's materials. However, proposals to revise history, philosophy, and science curricula to align more closely with Islam sparked controversy. Faced with backlash, the government quickly backtracked the following day. "There is something positive in their approach," said Archbishop Mourad. "The authorities are showing flexibility and respect for public opinion." As a new constitution potentially enshrines Islam's primacy in the country, the Archbishop of Homs believes it is the responsibility of Christians and all citizens to make their voices heard. "This is both a major concern and a significant responsibility for everyone," he explained. "I have no issue with acknowledging Syria as a Muslim country, but the governance system must be based on respect for diversity and equality for all citizens, regardless of their faith. I cannot envision our country being governed by Islamic law but rather by a civil law that upholds human rights." Since the military group HTC (Hayat Tahrir al-Sham) came to power in Syria, Christian leaders have appeared cautiously optimistic about their future, reassured by the government's initial steps. "I'm more concerned for the Alawites (the minority group from which the Assad family hailed, Ed.)," noted Archbishop Mourad. "They were victims of the previous regime, but now they face acts of revenge and are sometimes killed." Mark Campbell, Head of Isio Wealth Planning said: 2025 is set to be a year of reflection and recalibration for the wealth planning industry. The Governments recent Budget introduced significant changes, from the freezing of inheritance tax thresholds to higher capital gains tax rates and the inclusion of pensions in estates for IHT purposes from 2027. Next year will be key for unpacking the details of these changes, understanding how they will be administrated, and ensuring the industry is equipped to handle them effectively. Without this clarity, its difficult for clients to make fully informed decisions - practicalities need to be set out sooner rather than later. For the sector, 2025 will likely be businesses as usual - the focus will be on getting the basics right. Clients need well-diversified portfolios, appropriate asset allocation, and enough liquidity to weather ongoing volatility. The challenge is preparing for these changes while staying calm and focused on the fundamentals - avoiding knee-jerk reactions that could undermine outcomes while ensuring long-term stability. The inclusion of pensions in estates for IHT purposes from 2027 is already sparking discussions. For many clients, pensions are one of their most significant assets, so this shift is forcing a rethink about how they approach estate planning. For those caught out by the changes, especially those with limited time to act, its essential to have the right guidance and structures in place as soon as possible as we head into 2025. At the same time, we expect to continue to see AI becoming increasingly integral to wealth planning next year, both in terms of improving business efficiency and offering investment opportunities. AI tools will continue to enhance processes, improve reporting, and support better client outcomes. The growth of AI will also continue to present significant long-term investment opportunities, the potential for growth in tech-related investments is clear. For wealth managers, focusing on technology-driven solutions and integrating them into client portfolios can offer the opportunity to capture growth in an evolving market. While markets may not repeat themselves, they do rhyme staying calm, sticking to the fundamentals, and maintaining a long-term view will be key to navigating 2025 successfully for the sector. Richard Birkin, Head of DC Pensions at Isio said: 2025 is shaping up to be the biggest year of change for DC pensions since the introduction of auto-enrolment. Consolidation will dominate, with own-trust schemes continuing the transition to master trusts as the master trusts strive to become the so-called megafunds. At the same time, dashboards and authorised provider lists will accelerate efforts to address the small pot problem, enabling faster and smoother transitions. The goal is clear fewer, larger, and more efficient schemes hopefully delivering real value for members. Retirement products and accompanying support is finally taking centre stage. Providers are positioning themselves for the launch of smarter, more member friendly decumulation strategies, default retirement solutions, and enhanced member support all well overdue developments. The shift is driven by the need to retain assets whilst hopefully providing members with meaningful support and increased retirement income. Legislative backing for default retirement strategies would be a welcome push to make this a reality. Value for money will move beyond low costs and focus on what really matters, with investment in private markets and alternatives and more diverse and resilient portfolios. 2025 will be about shifting the narrative from cost to value ensuring members get more from their savings. Technology will play a game-changing role in 2025. The use of AI and the development of more personalised and relevant support tools will improve understanding. The advice gap remains a challenge, but digital innovation and better regulation can help bridge this, empowering members to make informed decisions. But the elephant in the room remains pension adequacy. Average contribution levels, especially for middle-band earners, simply arent enough to produce desired income replacement levels. Many in this cohort will not have a DB pension, and more innovative and focused contribution structures may emerge to try to better support this particular group. 2025 isnt just a year of change its a year of opportunity to reshape DC pensions. Lets focus on, and finally see through, some key initiatives and deliver a system that works better for members. Mark Jones, Reward and Benefits Partner at Isio said: "2025 will be a significant year for employers, with the Governments Get Britain Working White Paper and the Employment Rights Bill laying the groundwork for major changes. Central to this is the creation of the new Fair Work Agency, which will consolidate enforcement powers across employment rights. With stronger powers to investigate and take action, employers face the prospect of more robust inspections and tougher penalties if they fall short. This marks a shift from reactive enforcement in certain areas, where employees were often responsible for raising claims, to a more proactive approach led by regulators. For employers, the message is clear: get your house in order now, or risk fines, reputational damage, or being named-and-shamed. Flexible working will also remain a key area of focus. This is no longer a nice to have its a key part of any benefits strategy and will be a key bargaining chip in the race for talent in 2025. Getting this right can improve turnover and employee engagement. Meanwhile, cost pressures arent going anywhere. National Insurance (NI) and minimum wage changes will remain high on the agenda, forcing employers to make tough choices about staff reward. Employers should look at their reward package holistically, maximise use of salary sacrifice schemes (for example, for pension contributions) and may need to look for cost savings in other employee benefits. Employers should start scenario planning now, looking at how changes in NI might affect their total cost of employment. Reviewing the structure and design of benefits packages, as well as considering where support can be targeted most effectively, will be key to weathering changes. Those that prepare early will be better positioned to manage costs without compromising their employee value proposition as we move into next year. Google is set to implement significant changes to its advertising policies on January 15th, specifically targeting financial scams within the UK, with a particular focus on the cryptocurrency sector. This action follows increasing pressure from UK authorities regarding misleading or fraudulent crypto promotions. To comply with the stringent regulations outlined by the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Google is adjusting its advertising rules accordingly. Under the revised policy, Google will permit advertisements for hardware wallets used to store private keys for cryptocurrencies, including NFTs and other digital assets. However, marketing efforts for services that facilitate the buying, selling, exchanging, or trading of cryptocurrencies will be strictly prohibited. To ensure compliance, Google will submit crypto platform ads to the FCA for licensing verification. Importantly, Google has established a clear process for addressing non-compliant firms. Instead of immediate account suspensions, offending accounts will receive a warning and a seven-day grace period to align with the new policy, particularly the requirement of UK FCA registration. Failure to comply within this timeframe will result in account suspensions. This move by Google demonstrates a proactive approach to combating crypto-related scams and ensuring consumer protection within the UK. Also Read: Empowering India's news: Google's year in review Delhivery, one of Indias leading logistics and supply chain companies, has appointed Karan Parekh as its Head of Digital Marketing. Parekh, who brings over a decade of expertise in digital marketing, announced his new role via LinkedIn. Prior to joining Delhivery, Parekh served as the Senior Vice President of Marketing at YES BANK, where he played a key role in driving the banks digital initiatives. His extensive experience spans various domains, including biddable media, social media, search engine marketing (SEM), search engine optimization (SEO), and digital planning. Over the course of his career, Parekh has worked with prominent organisations such as PNB MetLife India Insurance, Axis Bank, Madison Communications, and GroupM, where he honed his skills in creating impactful marketing strategies and delivering measurable results. At Delhivery, Parekh is expected to leverage his vast expertise to enhance the companys digital footprint, optimize marketing efforts, and drive customer engagement in a competitive logistics market. This strategic hire comes as Delhivery continues to strengthen its leadership team to support its ambitious growth and digital transformation objectives. Also Read: Hero Realty appoints Karan Kumar as Chief Marketing Officer According to the latest BARC ratings, News18 Lokmat has outperformed TV9 Marathi and ABP Majha, establishing dominance in the Marathi news segment. The data highlights News18 Lokmat's market share of 22.2%, surpassing TV9 Marathi and ABP Majha, which hold 21.4% and 16.5% respectively. (Source: BARC | Market: Maharashtra/ Goa | Period: Wk 52'24 | Audience: All 15+ | Metric: Market Share%) In Mumbai, News18 Lokmat has firmly secured the top position in terms of reach among viewers. The channel boasts an impressive cumulative reach of 4,462, ahead of TV9 Marathi, which stands in second place with a reach of 4,091. (Source: BARC | Market: Mumbai | Period: Wk 52'24 | Audience: All 15+ | Metric: Cume Reach 000s) News18 Lokmat consistently addresses ground-level issues that directly impact people's lives, providing real-time coverage of local politics and events. The channel also offers a national perspective to its audience in Maharashtra, delivering a well-rounded and comprehensive view on various issues. It has consistently maintained its dominant position in the Marathi news segment, outperforming competitors across TV and social media. News18 Lokmats website too stands at the forefront, setting a benchmark in the Marathi news genre with its viewership figures. Network18s News18 Network is Indias largest news network, comprising 16 national and regional news channels that connect with audiences across the country. CNN-News18 has remained the number one English news channel for over 2 years, while News18 India dominates primetime as the number one Hindi news channel. Several of the network's regional channels have also consistently topped the charts, reflecting its strong local connect. Network18s CNBC-TV18 has been the undisputed leader in business news, reinforcing the network's position as a trusted and influential voice across genres. Mitul Sangani, CEO Indian Languages, News18 said, News18 Lokmats BARC ratings reaffirm its unwavering commitment to impactful journalism, which shines through its ground-level reporting and real-time coverage. By addressing issues that matter most to the people and offering a balanced perspective, the channel has set a gold standard in the Marathi news segment, leading the way across television and digital platforms with trust and excellence. I would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to advertisers and sponsors for their continued support, which inspires us to continue raising the bar. Celebrated for its objective news coverage, insightful analysis, and diverse opinions, News18 is Indias most extensive and influential news network. With a dominant presence in key markets and a strong foothold across genres, it maintains a position of authority in the Indian news landscape. Also Read: News18 Gujarati hosts Rising Gujarat to shape states trillion-dollar economy vision In todays fast-evolving world of marketing, the role of the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) is more crucial than ever. In Adgullys new column CMO Unplugged we bring you candid insights, expert advice, and thought-provoking discussions directly from the heart of the industry. CMO Unplugged goes beyond the surface to uncover the real strategies, innovations and challenges that define successful marketing leadership today. In conversation with Adgully, Puneeth Bekal, EVP & CMO, HDFC Securities, speaks about the companys strategic vision behind renaming the Ghatkopar Metro station, highlighting the unique role this initiative plays in financial education and empowering everyday commuters. Ghatkopar, with its significant footfall of 3-5 lakh commuters each month and its position as a key interchange between East and West Metro corridors, was chosen as the ideal location to engage with a diverse demographic. From students and gig workers to professionals and executives, the station presents a unique opportunity to promote HDFC Skys mission of encouraging people to invest and equitize their savings. The innovative use of technology and engagement strategies at Ghatkopar Metro station exemplifies HDFC Skys commitment to building financial literacy and fostering a disciplined investment culture. Through QR codes, interactive kiosks, LED screens, and monthly webinars with financial experts, the company is bridging the gap between commuters and accessible financial education. By offering a platform that provides research-backed recommendations and personalized investment tools, HDFC Sky aims to make investing more approachable for a wide range of individuals, especially in underserved areas. Bekal discusses how this initiative aligns with HDFC Skys broader vision of making money matter and promoting responsible investment through the platforms research-driven approach. He also elaborates on the companys broader growth plans, focusing on expanding its presence and encouraging a nationwide movement that empowers people to take control of their financial journeys. What strategic vision led HDFC Sky to rename Ghatkopar Metro station? And how does this initiative amplify your mission to make money matter? Ghatkopar is a unique station in Mumbai, as it is the point where the east and west corridors of the metro meet. It serves as a key transit hub for commuters, with between 3 to 5 lakh passengers using it each month. The demographics of these commuters are diverse, ranging from students and professionals to gig workers and executives. With this in mind, we have a clear vision that in todays environment, everyone should begin investing and equitize their savings. While there is a growing trend towards mutual fund investments, we also believe consumers should start incorporating equity into their savings. One of the key steps to starting an investment journey is understanding how and where to invest. This is where HDFC Sky, which is a part of HDFC Securities, comes into play. We provide a full-fledged research team that offers daily live calls and research recommendations on the HDFC Sky app. If you open the app and click on the research tab, youll find stock recommendations for short-term and long-term investments, as well as guidance on intraday trading. Our recommendations cover mutual funds, equities, F&O, commodities, and currencies. For consumers who may be unsure or apprehensive about where to start, we believe HDFC Sky is the perfect place to begin their investment journey. In Ghatkopar, the station allows us to engage directly with commuters. For instance, we have a mezzanine floor where we host monthly webinars and sessions with experts. Commuters can take a break and learn about market trends and investment strategies. Additionally, we have LED screens across the station where commuters can access educational content about investing. There's also an interactive kiosk where users can input their goals, such as saving for a vacation, building a children's education fund, or securing a home loan. The calculator provides personalized insights into how much they need to save and where to invest. How do you envision the partnership influencing financial literacy and empowering everyday commuters to take control of their financial journeys? As I mentioned earlier, our goal is to be an enabler for commuters, guiding them on how to start investing responsibly. In todays world, there is an overwhelming amount of information, often from unreliable sources. This is where we step in, with our trusted research capabilities. Our app offers daily research recommendations, helping consumers understand where the market is heading and where to allocate their savingswhether its in mutual funds, equities, or stocks. Our platform isnt just about branding; it's about motivating people to equitize their savings and to make money matter. Its a blend of investment and education. What role does innovation and technology play in ensuring HDFC Sky becomes a more accessible and impactful platform for financial education through initiatives like this? At the Ghatkopar Metro station, commuters can easily access our services via QR codes. Scanning any of these codes takes them directly to our app. Our app features around 114 SkyLearn videos, which provide comprehensive knowledge on investment topics. In the coming months, well also launch a masterclass, offering curated modules for commuters to enhance their investment knowledge. We continue to add new SkyLearn videos regularly, updating them to keep up with market changes and ensure consumers are educated week by week. Technology plays a vital role in making financial education accessible, and our app is a key tool in this initiative. How does this milestone fit into HDFC Sky's broader plan for community engagement and nationwide brand building? This is just the beginning of our journey. We aim to be an integral part of every commuters life, starting with metro stations like Ghatkopar and expanding to airports and corporate offices in the future. Were already collaborating with corporates to help their employees equitize their salaries and invest responsibly. Our vision is to empower consumers with the right tools, information, and education, enabling them to make their savings work for their goals. What significant milestone or development in the BFSI industry has influenced your business strategy? Technology is a major driving force in engaging with consumers today. It enables users to access platforms seamlessly. Our app is stable, intuitive, and continuously improving to offer new features. We want to build a daily habit among consumers, similar to how people check social media apps like Instagram or Twitter. Our vision is to create a movement where consumers regularly check their app to monitor their wealth, build discipline, and make their money matter. What target have you set for HDFC Sky in the coming year, and how do you plan to achieve that? HDFC Sky was launched in September 2023, and within a year, weve already surpassed 1 million app downloads. Were confident that, with positive word-of-mouth, well be in a position to launch a comprehensive media campaign by mid-2025. Our aim is to become one of the top three brokers in India in the coming years. India is a global leader in adopting UPI for digital payments. How is your organization creating awareness and driving adoption, particularly in local and underserved areas? Stock investments can be made through UPI on the HDFC Sky app. A significant portion of our customer base comes from tier 2 and tier 3 towns, mostly in the 18-35 age group. Additionally, we leverage HDFC Bank's vast network of over 8,000 branches across India to promote investment in underserved areas. Through CSR activities, we are also reaching out to underprivileged communities, educating them about how they can invest in safer options like mutual funds and NFOs. How was 2024 for HDFC Sky? Though HDFC Sky launched in September 2023, we've already crossed 1 million downloads. While we havent executed large-scale media campaigns yet, word of mouth about our brand has been positive, and were optimistic that this growth will only continue in the coming year. What are your plans for 2025? For 2025, we have ambitious plans. Weve already started a podcast called Make Money Matter, where experts share their personal financial journeys and insights. We also plan to expand our partnerships and engage more actively with educational institutions to promote responsible investing among young people. Our overarching goal is to create a movement around responsible investment, with the aim of making money matter for everyone. Also Read: HDFC Securities aims to harness growth of HNI over next 5-10 years: Puneeth Bekal Protean eGov Technologies Limited, a technology leader in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), and a pioneer in developing innovative citizencentric e-Governance solutions, continues on the path of building the organisations newly created identity from NSDL eGov to Protean, with their new brand campaign Apni Kahaani ka Hero! The brand has on-boarded Pankaj Tripathi - the epitome of the common man of India - to showcase how DPI elevates lives of citizens. The storyline of the film is a tribute to the 1.45 billion heroes filled with aspirations and optimism who overcome numerous everyday obstacles to fulfil their dreams. It is in doing so that they become the Heroes of their own life story. And Protean is a humble enabler in these hero stories, as summarized in the tagline Protean: Impacting Everyone, Every day. Speaking about the film, Gaurav Ramdev, Chief Growth & Marketing Officer, Protean eGov Technologies Ltd, said, Digital Public Infrastructure Is a technical jargon that a few understand and relate to, and needs to be humanised in storytelling. DPI is empowerment of the nation and an enabler to billion aspirations. As humble leaders in this space, it is our responsibility to tell human stories that inspire - of a category that not only has an impact on the BFSI & startup industry but on every citizen of this country. It is this impact that we wanted to highlight through our campaign which marks the next chapter in rebuilding Proteans identity. And we couldnt think of anyone better than Mr. Pankaj Tripathi to be our chief narrator, because he is also our customer and now our brand ambassador. We are confident that this film will inspire millions of viewers to continue to be the Hero of their own stories. Suresh Sethi, MD & CEO, Protean eGov Technologies Ltd. said, Amidst the evolving digital world, the growth in Indias digital prowess clearly stands out through the development of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) which we now share with the world. The core inclusive principle of DPI states that every citizen in the most inaccessible corner of the country has the same opportunity as everyone else, and thus DPI has played a key role in driving social and financial inclusion, which is pivotal for socio-economic transformation. Though Protean eGov has been a leader in the DPI space, we have always been working in the background; this campaign is our opportunity to tell our story. We are delighted to have a versatile and talented actor like Pankaj Tripathi to lead this narrative. Conceptualised and developed by Ogilvy, Apni Kahaani ka Hero weaves together light-hearted lines, nostalgic moments, and a recognizable hunger for success. Speaking about their experience with the film, Sujoy Roy, Sr. Executive Creative Director, Ogilvy said Technology is a force for good, its bridging the gap between essential services and the people who need them. This new film, featuring Pankaj Tripathi, beautifully captures how Proteans Digital Public Infrastructure solutionssuch as the PAN Card, National Pension System, Open Network for Digital Commerceare transforming lives across India. Through Pankajs journey, we see the true power of digital empowerment, making crucial services accessible, secure, and impactful for everyone. As an agency we are proud to play a role in helping Protean create these moments and contribute to a more inclusive future for all in the form of an engaging narrative. Actor Pankaj Tripathi added his bit saying, When I was told about the campaign I was intrigued about what DPI is but then as I got to know about it, I was amazed about the impact it has in our lives and we hardly realize it. As a customer of Protean myself, I am thrilled to be a part of their story Kanika Bharadwaj, the CEO of People As Brands - PAB, who structured this association remarked, At People As Brands, were committed to crafting collaborations that not only elevate brands but also resonate with audiences. This synergy between Pankajs authenticity and Proteans innovation promises to be a game-changer, and were thrilled to have played a part in bringing this vision to life." The 3minute 50sec film follows Pankajs narration, as he takes the viewer through pivotal moments from the life of a common Indian, with humble beginnings but big dreams! The film portrays the transformative support and impact of Protean products, that pave the way for these innumerable heroes. Some of the products called out are Protean Vidyasaarathi (scholarships), Protean PAN, eKYC, NPS, ONDC and ProteanLife. The companys previous campaign, #ChangeIsGrowth was aimed at reintroducing the company after rebranding from NSDL e-Gov. This time around, the brand has opted to position itself as the essential digital partner for Indian masses, offering a comprehensive suite of solutions that cater to their diverse needs and aspirations, from education and finance to lifestyle and philanthropy. By showcasing how Protean's digital solutions can make a positive impact at every stage of ones life journey, the film aims to resonate with consumers on a personal level. Also Read: Protean eGov Technologies unveils a new campaign #ChangeIsGrowth Sameer Singh, who has been steering TikToks advertising sales for North America, is reportedly resigning from his position, according to news reports. This development comes at a critical juncture as TikTok faces mounting regulatory challenges in the United States, including a potential ban slated for January 19. Singh, a seasoned leader with over two decades of experience in media and marketing, joined ByteDance, TikToks parent company, in 2019. His strategic leadership in the Asia-Pacific region and later in North America helped shape the platforms advertising business during a period of rapid growth and global expansion. Singh is expected to remain with the company until the end of February. Before his time at TikTok, Singh held pivotal roles across some of the biggest names in the industry. From managing brand launches at Procter & Gamble to driving global media strategies at GSK, his career highlights include leadership stints at Google and GroupM, where he served as CEO for South Asia. This resignation coincides with a turbulent time for TikTok in the U.S., as the platform grapples with ongoing scrutiny over its data privacy practices. Legal arguments concerning the potential ban are set to be heard by the Supreme Court on January 10, further adding to the platform's uncertainty. Singhs departure leaves a gap in TikToks North American leadership as the company navigates a challenging landscape. Industry observers will be watching closely to see how TikTok manages its operations during this critical period. Also Read: Agrizy welcomes Sameer Singhai as Fintech Business Head Beed Sarpanch Murder Sparks Political Storm: Leaders Meet Governor, Call for Dhananjay Munde's Ouster 2 In the wake of the brutal murder of Beed sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh, a delegation of leaders met Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan on Monday, demanding the removal of state minister Dhananjay Munde from the cabinet. The delegation, including BJP MLA Suresh Dhas, submitted a memorandum urging swift action to ensure a fair investigation and restore public trust in the justice system. Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed district, was abducted, tortured, and murdered on December 9, allegedly for opposing extortion attempts by a group targeting an energy company. Seven individuals have been arrested so far, including Walmik Karad, an associate of NCP leader and minister Dhananjay Munde. The leaders demanded Mundes resignation, the filing of murder charges against Karad, disciplinary action against negligent police officials, and stricter measures to curb extortion and hooliganism in the region. The memorandum alleged that extortion activities had surged during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, culminating in Deshmukhs murder. It cited a series of incidents, including the kidnapping of an Avaada Power Pvt Ltd officer in May, a case resolved only after timely intervention by the Ahilyanagar police. The Beed police were criticized for their inaction despite repeated threats issued by Karad to Avaada officials, demanding 2 crore. On December 6, Karads associates allegedly attacked security personnel at the companys Massajog storeyard. Three days later, Deshmukh was abducted, tortured, and murdered, with a gruesome video of the crime circulated to intimidate others. His body was found in a nearby village. Public outrage followed, with Massajog residents staging protests demanding arrests. Police acted only after significant public pressure, the leaders claimed. On December 31, Karad announced his surrender via social media, drawing crowds to the CID headquarters in Pune, which caused chaos. The memorandum also raised concerns over alleged preferential treatment extended to Karad and the influence of powerful figures on the investigation. Signatories included prominent leaders such as former MP Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati, NCP (SP) MP Bajarang Sonawane, Congress MLA Vijay Wadettiwar, and MLA Jitendra Awhad. As the case gains momentum, calls for accountability and justice have cast a shadow over the political landscape of Maharashtra. Chhattisgarh Journalist Murder: Prime Accused Contractor Suresh Chandrakar Arrested in Hyderabad 2 Suresh Chandrakar, the main accused in the chilling murder of journalist Mukesh Chandrakar in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur district, has been apprehended by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) in Hyderabad, police confirmed on Monday. Chandrakar, a contractor by profession, had been on the run since January 3, when Mukeshs body was discovered in a septic tank at a property owned by the accused in Chattanpara Basti, Bijapur. Mukesh, a 33-year-old freelance journalist, went missing on January 1. The SITs late-night operation on Sunday led to Chandrakars arrest, adding to the detentions of his brothers, Ritesh and Dinesh Chandrakar, as well as supervisor Mahendra Ramteke, who were earlier taken into custody. Mukeshs murder is speculated to be linked to his recent report exposing alleged corruption in a road construction project in Bijapur. The report, aired on NDTV on December 25, had directly implicated contractor Suresh Chandrakar in the controversy. Political accusations have further intensified the case. While Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma claimed Chandrakar was affiliated with the Congress, the opposition alleged he recently joined the ruling BJP, fueling a heated political debate over the incident. The arrest of Suresh Chandrakar is expected to shed light on the motive and circumstances surrounding the journalists gruesome murder, as calls for justice continue to echo across the region. Showdown in Tamil Nadu Assembly: Governor RN Ravi Walks Out Over 'Disrespect' to National Anthem 2 In an unprecedented move, Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi stormed out of the Assembly on Monday, refusing to deliver his customary address, citing alleged disrespect to the Constitution and the national anthem. Tensions erupted when members of the opposition AIADMK gathered in protest, chanting slogans that drowned out proceedings. Speaker M. Appavu ordered their eviction, while Congress legislators also staged a symbolic dissent, wearing black badges. BJP and PMK members exited the House in solidarity with the Governor. Raj Bhavan later issued a strongly worded statement accusing the Assembly of ignoring a fundamental constitutional duty. The controversy centered on the omission of the national anthem at the start of proceedings, with only the Tamil state song, Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu, being sung. Governor Ravi reportedly urged Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, Speaker Appavu, and other leaders to ensure the anthem was played but left in deep anguish after they allegedly refused. Senior Minister and Leader of the House Duraimurugan dismissed the Governors claims, stating that the Assembly has long followed a protocol of playing the national anthem at the conclusion of the Governors address, a practice reaffirmed during a similar dispute last year. This raises questions about the Governors intentions, Duraimurugan remarked, asserting that Tamil Nadu has consistently demonstrated unwavering respect for the Constitution, national anthem, and patriotism. The incident has sparked a heated debate, highlighting the growing tensions between the Governor and the state government. Tragedy in Kashmir: Family of Five Suffocates to Death Amid Harsh Winter 2 Five members of a family tragically lost their lives to asphyxiation on Sunday in the Pandrethan area of Jammu and Kashmirs Srinagar, officials reported. The victims, a couple and their three children from the Uri area of Baramulla district, were discovered lifeless in their rented home after neighbors grew concerned about the lack of activity throughout the day. Authorities were alerted, and initial investigations confirmed the cause of death as asphyxiation. The Valley is currently enduring its harsh 40-day winter period, forcing residents indoors and relying on traditional heating methods like braziers to stay warm. The incident has prompted grief across the region, with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressing their heartfelt condolences to the bereaved. Authorities have released the name of a 13-year-old boy shot to death when someone fired into his Bessemer home. The Jefferson County Coroners Office identified the victim as Allen T. Thomas. Allen attended Bessemer City Middle School. My baby was the sweetest, most happiest baby there was to have,' said his grieving mother, Erica Chaney. There was never a dull moment while he was around. He never missed a day teling me he loves me,' Chaney said. He would call while I was at work and ask me how was my day going and when I got home, he would ask me if I had a good day. My baby did not deserve this,' she said. He was in his bed asleep. He doesnt even know what happened to him,' Chaney said. Im so heartbroken. Just before 10 p.m. Friday, officers were dispatched to the 1200 block of 13th Street North on a report that the child had been shot. Thomas was taken to Childrens of Alabama hospital where he was pronounced dead at 2:58 a.m. Saturday. Bessemer police Detective Justin Burmeister said the boy was inside the home when a suspect or suspects opened fire. Investigators have not yet said who was targeted. Multiple bullet holes were seen in the left side of the house, the result of Fridays shooting. Gunfire damage to a large window on the right side of the front door was from a previous shooting, said those gathered at the home Saturday. No arrests have been announced. The teen is one of two people killed in Bessemer in the first days of 2025. It is with a heavy heart that I extend my deepest condolences to the Chaney-Thomas family as they grieve the devastating loss of their loved one due to gun violence, Mayor Kenneth Gulley said in a weekend statement. No parent should have to bury their child, and no community should have to endure such senseless acts of violence. We are just four days into the new year, and already our city has experienced two tragic homicides, he said. This is unacceptable. As your mayor, I want to assure you that we will exhaust every resource and avenue to bring those responsible for this heinous act to justice. The mayor appealed to the people of Bessemer, let us choose peace over violence. We must find ways to resolve our differences without resorting to guns. This lawlessness cannot and will not define who we are as a city. Anyone with information in the teens slaying is asked to call detectives at 205-425-2411, the tip line at 205-428-3541 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777. Gov. Kay Ivey called on Alabama to join Louisiana in a day of mourning Monday for victims of the New Years Day terrorist attack in New Orleans, including two victims who called Alabama home. Kareem Badawi was a Baton Rouge native who was a freshman at the University of Alabama. Drew Dauphin was an auto engineer who graduated from Auburn University in 2023. Ivey issued a proclamation directing that flags remain lowered as a visible sign of respect and remembrance for Badawi, Dauphin, and all the victims of the attack, which killed 14 people and also ended in the death of the perpetrator. (Flags are also lowered in Alabama to honor President Jimmy Carter.) Drew Dauphin, an Auburn University graduate, was among those killed in the New Year's Day terrorist attack in New Orleans.(Contributed) Badawi, 18, was a 2024 graduate of the Episcopal School of Baton Rouge and had started this fall at UA, where he pledged to join the Sigma Chi fraternity. Read more: Its evil: Father of UA freshman killed in New Orleans attack says well miss him forever Dauphin as a supplier process engineer who had worked for American Honda Motor Company Inc. since his graduation from Auburn. Dauphin graduated from Alabama Christian Academy in Montgomery in 2016. A group of friends visiting New Orleans from Mobile were among the 30 or so injured in the attack. Alexis Scott-Windham, 23, told AL.com she was shot in the ankle and her friend, Brandon Whitsett, was struck by the pickup truck. Scott-Windam said she has to go back to the hospital in two weeks to have her fracture re-examined. In the meantime, shes on bed rest and off work from her job at the Amazon facility in Mobile. Whitsett, she said, remains in New Orleans and is in stable condition at Touro Hospital. H Whitsett, a 2022 alumni of Vigor, posted on Facebook Wednesday saying, Forever thank god that could of been worse. Scott-Windham will receive full pay from her employer, Amazon, while she recovers. A story by NOLA.com on Thursday quoted Scott-Windham saying she was denied a leave of absence to recover. She also expressed fear of retaliation that will require her to find a new job. Amazon learned Friday that Scott-Windham had mistakenly requested the wrong type of leave. President Joe Biden on Sunday plans to sign into law a measure that boosts Social Security payments for current and former public employees, affecting nearly 3 million people who receive pensions from their time as teachers, firefighters, police officers and in other public service jobs. Advocates say the Social Security Fairness Act rights a decades-old disparity, though it will also put strain on Social Security Trust Funds, which face a looming insolvency crisis. The bill rescinds two provisions the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset that limit Social Security benefits for recipients if they get retirement payments from other sources, including public retirement programs from a state or local government. The Congressional Research Service estimated that in December 2023, there were 745,679 people, about 1% of all Social Security beneficiaries, who had their benefits reduced by the Government Pension Offset. About 2.1 million people, or about 3% of all beneficiaries, were affected by the Windfall Elimination Provision. The Congressional Budget Office estimated in September that eliminating the Windfall Elimination Provision would boost monthly payments to the affected beneficiaries by an average of $360 by December 2025. Ending the Government Pension Offset would increase monthly benefits in December 2025 by an average of $700 for 380,000 recipients getting benefits based on living spouses, according to the CBO. The increase would be an average of $1,190 for 390,000 or surviving spouses getting a widow or widower benefit. Those amounts would increase over time with Social Securitys regular cost-of-living adjustments. The change is to payments from January 2024 and beyond, meaning the Social Security Administration would owe back-dated payments. The measure as passed by Congress says the Social Security commissioner shall adjust primary insurance amounts to the extent necessary to take into account changes in the law. Its not immediately clear how this will happen or whether people affected will have to take any action. Edward Kelly, president of the International Association of Fire Fighters, said firefighters across the country are excited to see the change weve righted a 40-year wrong. Kelly said the policy was far more egregious for surviving spouses of firefighters who paid their own quotas into Social Security but were victimized by the government pension system. The IAFF has roughly 320,000 members, which does not include hundreds of thousands of retirees who will benefit from the change. Now firefighters who get paid very little can now afford to actually retire, Kelly said. Sherrod Brown, who as an Ohio senator pushed for the proposal for years, lost his reelection bid in November. Lee Saunders, president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees labor union, thanked Brown for his advocacy. Over two million public service workers will finally be able to access the Social Security benefits they spent their careers paying into, Saunders said in a statement. Many will finally be able to enjoy retirement after a lifetime of service. National Education Association President Becky Pringle said the law is a historic victory that will improve the lives of educators, first responders, postal workers and others who dedicate their lives to public service in their communities. And while some Republicans such as Maine Sen. Susan Collins supported the legislation, others, including Sens. John Thune of South Dakota, Rand Paul of Kentucky and Thom Tillis of North Carolina, voted against it. We caved to the pressure of the moment instead of doing this on a sustainable basis, Tillis told The Associated Press last month. Alabama Rep. Gary Palmer voted against the bill. Sens. Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville also voted against final passage. Still, Republican supporters of the bill said there was a rare opportunity to address what they described as an unfair section of federal law that hurts public service retirees. The future of Social Security has become a top political issue and was a major point of contention in the 2024 election. About 72.5 million people, including retirees, disabled people and children, receive Social Security benefits. The policy changes from the new law will heap more administrative work on the Social Security Administration, which is already at its lowest staffing level in decades. The agency, currently under a hiring freeze, has a staff of about 56,645 the lowest level in over 50 years even as it serves more people than ever. The annual Social Security and Medicare trustees report released last May said the programs trust fund will be unable to pay full benefits beginning in 2035. The new law will hasten the programs insolvency date by about half a year. A veteran Irondale police lieutenant was hit and killed early Monday while directing traffic at Church of the Highlands. Lt. Mark Meadows, 60, was putting out cones at the intersection of Grants Mill Road and Overton Road as the churchs 21 Days of Prayer was preparing to let out when he was struck by an oncoming motorist. The crash happened shortly before 7 a.m. Monday, shutting down all lanes of Grants Mill Road for hours. Meadows was taken to Grandview Medical Center where he was pronounced dead. Troopers said the Chevrolet Colorado that struck Meadows was driven by 32-year-old Evan N. Sullivan of Leeds. The driver stopped at the scene. Irondale Mayor James Stewart said grief support is being offered to Meadows co-workers. Lt. Mark Meadows was a treasured member of our Irondale family for over 30 years,' Stewart said in a press release. He was a man of few words but always led by example and embodied the heart of a public servant. The mayor said Meadows will be missed. We are comforted in knowing that he is with his heavenly father and we will continue to cover his family in prayer as they grieve this great loss,' Stewart said. Church of the Highlands Pastor Chris Hodges released this statement: Our hearts are heavy beyond measure. Officer Meadows has been with us since the opening of our Grants Mill campus almost 18 years ago. He is family to us.All our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, daughter, son, family members, fellow officers and the many who loved him. Even in the most difficult and trying times, we know our God will provide comfort, strength and reassurance based on the promise of heaven. We as a church will do all we can to care for his family. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is leading the investigation. Irondale police Lt. Mark Meadows was fatally struck by a vehicle while he was preparing to direct traffic at Church of the Highlands on Jan. 6, 2025.(Special to AL.com) Meadows served four years in the U.S Army 3rd Ranger Battalion, 10th Mountain Division at Ft. Benning in Georgia. Originally from Jacksonville, Florida, he began his law enforcement career with the Mountain Brook Police Department in 1992, before transferring to the Irondale Police Department. He was a true public servant, and a true family man,' said retired Irondale Sgt. Michael Mangina. Meadows, a husband, father and grandfather of two, became an FBI instructor certified in pistol and rifle in 2001. He then became an NRA Instructor certified in pistol in 2017. Meadows worked at Church of Highlands for more than decade, helping to coordinate traffic security. The 21 Days of Prayer started Jan. 5 and runs through the 25th. People gather at the various church campuses to pray each morning beginning at 6 a.m. on weekdays. AL.com reporter Greg Garrison contributed to this report. A Kentucky woman was killed and two children -- ages 12 and 9 -- were among five people injured in a head-on crash Thursday morning between two cars in Conecuh County, authorities said Monday. Virginia L. Schueman, 64, of Shepherdsville, Kentucky, was a passenger in a 2023 Tesla Model 3 that collided head-on with a 2019 Honda Accord around 9:20 a.m. Thursday on Alabama State Route 55 near the 47-mile marker, said Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Senior Trooper Kendra McKinney. The drivers of the Tesla and the Accord and a passenger in the Tesla were airlifted to Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola with undisclosed injuries, McKinney said. The two children, who were also passengers in the Tesla, were injured and taken to a local hospital for treatment. Schueman was pronounced dead at the scene of the wreck about a mile south of McKenzie, in Conecuh County. Further information was unavailable as state troopers continued investigating the wreck. Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed on Monday named James Jim Graboys police chief for the city following what the mayors office said was a comprehensive national search. Graboys had served as interim chief since July 15. He has worked for the Montgomery Police Department for more than 20 years during a career that also includes experience with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and serving as the police chief at Alabama State University from 2012 to 2019. Chief Graboys has shown outstanding leadership during his tenure, Reed said in a press release. Im confident he will continue to lead the Montgomery Police Department with integrity, vision, and a steadfast commitment to our communitys safety. Graboys tenure as interim chief came after the resignation of Chief Darryl Albert in April. The mayors office said the announcement followed months of evaluation and talks with community leaders. The city hired Strategic Government Resources (SGR), a Texas-based recruitment firm, to assist in the search. SGR helped assess and narrow down more than 40 candidates to four finalists before the selection of Graboys. This appointment marks a significant step in Montgomerys efforts to enhance public safety and foster community trust, the mayors office said. Buyout firm Advent International has agreed to acquire Sauer Brands Inc., the owner of the Dukes mayonnaise brand, from Falfurrias Capital Partners, according to people with knowledge of the matter. The transaction values Sauer Brands at about $1.5 billion, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the discussions are confidential. An agreement could be announced as soon as Monday, they said. The deal comes after Sauer held talks with spice maker and distributor McCormick & Co., in discussions that were previously reported by Bloomberg News. Representatives for Advent and Falfurrias declined to comment. A representative for Sauer couldnt immediately be reached for comment. Charlotte, North Carolina-based private equity firm Falfurrias, co-founded by former Bank of America Corp. Chief Executive Officer Hugh McColl, acquired C.F. Sauer Co. in 2019. Dukes mayonnaise remains a hometown favorite in the American South. Sauer Brands traces the origins of the Dukes brand to C.F. Sauer buying the recipe for the mayonnaise in 1929 from Eugenia Duke, a woman who sold sandwiches to soldiers stationed near Greenville, South Carolina. Boston-based Advent, with about $89 billion in assets under management, has racked up more than 420 investments. Many of its investments have been in the consumer sector, including food and beverage companies such as Sovos Brands. The private equity firms have also worked together before. Advent bought restaurant chain Bojangles from Falfurrias in 2011, according to its website. Advent also focuses on investments in the business and financial services, health-care, industrial and technology sectors. Last year, Advent struck a $6.3 billion deal to acquire payments company Nuvei Corp. in April, and made a multibillion-dollar investment in software maker Prometheus Group in June. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Parts of Alabama will have two chances to see snowflakes just this week, according to the National Weather Service. Snow flurries and showers have been plentiful enough on Monday morning to cause the National Weather Service in Huntsville to issue a winter weather advisory for all of north Alabama. It will be in effect until 7 p.m. Monday: [10:10AM] A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for all of northern AL and southern middle TN through 7 PM this evening due to minor snow accumulations (up to 1 inch) and hazardous road conditions due to lingering freezing rain. Use caution on roadways! #HUNwx pic.twitter.com/xvUeCumACM NWS Huntsville (@NWSHuntsville) January 6, 2025 The weather service said up to 1 inch of snow could fall in some areas, and there were also concerns about any leftover rain freezing on roadways as temperatures drop this afternoon and evening. The weather service has gotten reports of snow starting to stick to roads in northeast Alabama: [1:10PM] We have received reports of hazardous road conditions due to snow in portions of the TN Valley- drive with extreme caution this afternoon into the overnight hours! Even trucks and SUVs with four-wheel drive can still lose traction in the snow. #HUNwx pic.twitter.com/LwpMsMjLT8 NWS Huntsville (@NWSHuntsville) January 6, 2025 Snow flurries and snow showers were also widespread in the northern part of central Alabama on Monday morning and could continue through midday, forecasters said. We continue to pick up snow showers on radar and appreciate the photos and videos being shared with us on social media. Expect this activity to continue through midday. We anticipate travel impacts to be minor with only a few slick spots possible on elevated surfaces. pic.twitter.com/DJ3DvA1MVN NWS Birmingham (@NWSBirmingham) January 6, 2025 Another chance for snow and other forms of winter precipitation is expected on Friday. The National Weather Service in Huntsville said on Monday morning that concern for accumulating snowfall is increasing for areas in north Alabama later this week. The weather service in Birmingham also noted that confidence about some form of winter precipitation is rising for central Alabama, but theres a big question of what kind of precipitation. Forecasters in Mobile havent ruled out a snowflake or two for inland areas but think it may be too warm for much else. Courtney Udicious enjoys playing in a rare January snow in 2014 on the University of Alabama campus in Tuscaloosa.AP The first chance for snow will last through this afternoon thanks to a very cold airmass that is taking over the state in the wake of a cold front and storms last night. Weather watchers will also be keeping an eye on north Alabama bodies of water in case the cold air and windy conditions could generate an Alabama version of lake-effect snow. Speaking of wind, it will continue to be blustery at times today, and wind advisories will be in effect for the northern two-thirds of the state through the afternoon today. The flurries are expected to last on and off through the afternoon, according to the weather service. Today is expected to be very cold, with highs in north and north-central Alabama only expected to make it into the 30s. Heres todays forecast: A very cold day is expected today (Monday) for all but the southeast corner of Alabama.NWS Today marks the first day of a prolonged cold period even for January. Below-average temperatures will be the story through the week and possibly into the weekend, according to the weather service. This week high temperatures will be similar to today, only making it into the 30s and 40s. Lows will be in the teens and 20s. The weather service thinks the coldest night could be Wednesday into Thursday. Heres the low temperature forecast for that timeframe: Temperatures from Wednesday night into Thursday morning could be some of the coldest of the weekNWS Then comes Friday, and the potential for what forecasters call impacts from winter precipitation. The weather service expects an area of low pressure to develop near the Gulf Coast and slide eastward Thursday into Friday. That low will generate precipitation, and with cold air in place that precipitation could fall over Alabama as rain, freezing rain or snow. The weather service thinks the time to watch for winter precipitation will be late Thursday night through the day on Friday. Areas in north and central Alabama could end up with travel issues, but thats not certain just yet. South Alabama may be warm enough to just see rain, but a little wintry mix is still possible for inland areas. The big question, as it typically is with winter precipitation in Alabama, is what form will it take? According to the weather service, as of Monday morning, thinks that many areas in north and central Alabama may see precipitation start out on the frozen side (freezing rain or snow) and then transition to rain as temperatures warm during the day on Friday, then it could transition back toward freezing later in the day on Friday. But the weather service stressed that its just a matter of a few degrees: I want to stress that all of this hinges on a very thin margin of error for hour by hour temperatures, the weather service in Birmingham said in a Monday morning forecast discussion. Any shift in the guidance or eventual observations of temperatures 2-3 degrees warmer or colder can lead to significant changes in the forecast. Therefore, details in this forecast will undoubtedly change in the next few days. Heres more from the National Weather Service: NORTH ALABAMA Here's a look at what the National Weather Service in Huntsville is thinking about snow from Thursday night into Saturday.NWS CENTRAL ALABAMA This week will be COLD! Temperatures will be in the low 20s with wind chills several degrees colder. We're also watching the potential for winter weather on Friday. Specific accumulations still remain uncertain, but locations across the far north may see travel impacts. pic.twitter.com/KaqPtCMOip NWS Birmingham (@NWSBirmingham) January 6, 2025 SOUTH ALABAMA The State Department has updated travel advisories for two Central American countries popular with cruise ships and visiting tourists. Travel alerts for Guatemala and Belize were reissued in late December. Guatemala remains under a level three reconsider travel alert, the next-to-highest warning, while Belize is under the level 2 exercise increased caution category. Visitors wanting to go to Guatemala should reconsider their plans due to crime, including issues with gangs, robbery, carjacking, drug trafficking and violence. Local law enforcement may not always respond well to serious crimes, leading to low arrest and conviction rates. While tourists are not usually targeted, they can still be victims of opportunistic crimes, the warning noted. Three areas in Guatemala are under a do not travel advisory, all due to increased crime: San Marcos Department (except the city of San Marcos) Huehuetenango Department (except the city of Huehuetenango) Zone 18 in Guatemala City and the city of Villa Nueva U.S. government employees are currently prohibited from traveling to those area but are allowed to go to popular tourist spots such as Tikal, Antigua, Lake Atitlan, and the Pacific coast areas in the Santa Rosa and Escuintla. Visitors are also advised to avoid traveling outside Guatemala City at night because of poorly lit roads and a high risk of serious traffic accidents. Crime is also cited as the reason for caution in Belize. Violent crimes such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder are common even during the day and in tourist areas. A significant portion of violent crime is gang-related, the alert noted. Belize City is under a level 3 reconsider travel warning. People should avoid the southside of Belize City due to crime, much of it gang related. The area does not overlap with popular tourist areas but all visitors should maintain an elevated level of situational awareness, exercise increased caution, and practice good safety and security practices, the State Department said. The Alabama State Bureau of Investigation is looking into the death of a Chambers County jail inmate Saturday. According to the Chambers County Sheriffs Office, authorities found a female inmate unresponsive in an assigned holding cell at about 11:45 a.m. Saturday at the James Morgan County Detention Facility in LaFayette. Deputies and medical personnel began lifesaving measures and were later joined by Lafayette Fire & EMS. The inmate, Leanna Washington, 36, of LaGrange, Georgia, was pronounced dead. Washington, who had been in the jail since Dec. 28, 2024, was being held on drug charges from Valley police. Sheriff Jeff Nelson requested that the SBI conduct an independent investigation. There were no other inmates or deputies involved in this incident, Nelson said. The jail has a capacity of 256 inmates with a staff of 10 support personnel and 24 detention deputies, according to the sheriffs website. Unless youve been living under a rock for the last week (or just living in the UK), you know about the sudden earthquake of activity surrounding the Asian Grooming Gangs (Rape Rings) that have been operating in Britain for more than 25 years. Everyone is referring to them as Asian, but thats a disservice to 47 out of 48 of the countries in Asia because most of these Asian rapists are from just one country, Pakistan. In America, we, too, have a group of people disproportionately responsible for crime: blacks. In both cases, the vast majority of law-abiding members of those groups refuse to police the problem, instead crying about racism. This is a short term victory that will harm them badly in the long term. If youre not familiar with the sordid story, basically, for the last 25 years, Pakistani men have been grooming and raping young white girls. And when I say young, I dont mean a 16-year-old girl who puts on makeup and purposely tries to pass herself off as 18. No, while that happened, the vast majority of the victims were far younger11, 13, and sometimes as young as 5 years old. Its been recently suggested that the total number of victims over that period is more than 250,000. And most of those victims were abused and raped by multiple men, sometimes dozens or more. Image by Vince Coyner using AI. The fact that this abuse happened is both revolting and despicable. In a more rational world, a punishment meted out by a machine popularized in 18th century France would be in their future. But, of course, we dont live in a rational world. There is an element of this story that is possibly even more contemptible than the abuse itself: The government, the media, and the police worked and continue to work together to keep the lid on the crimes, distract from who was committing the crimes, and manipulate investigations and data to obscure the facts while giving unconscionably light sentences to perpetrators. Here are just a few of the anger-inducing stories that have gone on over the last few years: A victim who had been abused for years, beginning when she was five, was asked by police if she had consented to the sex at any time. Victims who had gone to the police were sometimes left by officers to be harassed and intimidated by the men who had previously abused them. A father went to try and rescue his daughter and was arrested by the police. The police were called to a home where seven naked Pakistani men were with two naked and drunk 13-year-olds and subsequently arrested the girls for drunkenness and let the men go. Tommy Robinson, the self-made journalist (which is something of a badge of honor in recent times), was arrested and jailed for reporting on the rape cases. And, of course, over the entire period of this crime spree, anyone who stood up and spoke out about it was accused of Islamophobia or being a racist. All of this has been playing out on the backdrop of a rapidly evolving nation where British whites have gone from 96% of the population in 1980 to less than 74% in less than 40 years. In major cities, the disparity is far greater. In London, where only 36% of the population are white British, fully 41% of the population are immigrants. In Birmingham, white Brits make up less than 50%, while Pakistanis make up 20%. In Luton, one of the Grooming Gang hotspots and the home of Tommy Robinson, white Brits make up just 32%, while Pakistanis make up 18%. And why does any of this demographic data matter? Because its at the core of this travesty. The government (both Tories and Labour ) and media have been twisting like pretzels trying to sell the country on the fiction of successful multicultural integration . That is, and has been for decades, an absolute fiction. One needs merely to observe the staggeringly large pro-Hamas demonstrations that took place across the UK after the terrorist group started a war with Israel to recognize that Britain today is a far cry from the Britain of Maggie Thatcher. Of course, the reason that the issue is getting any significant traction at all is because the freedom of a (largely) uncensored X has given Brits the ability to access and share information previously not easily done. Combined with the voice of Elon Musk and one of the largest megaphones in the world the issue is just now starting to become a major story in the UK. Indeed, Musk has called on the King to dissolve Parliament so that Brits can vote on a new government in the wake of the scandal. I have little confidence that the climate change cultist King will actually do so, but there is always a sparkle of hope. The thing about this travesty is that it largely mirrors one that has been happening in the United States, albeit in a different form. In Britain, you have a government and the elites actively seeking to distract the citizens from whats right in front of them. Theyre seeking to pretend there is no correlation between a demographic and the crimes its members commit. Meanwhile, most of the community from which those criminals come arent seeking to hold them accountable but are instead crying racism. Sound familiar? Here in the United States, the problem isnt rape, its violence and murder. The criminals arent predominantly Pakistani; theyre black, and it isnt Islamophobia thats being used to deflect responsibility but rather cries of racism. And lastly, while in Britain most of the victims arent from the same demographic as the criminals, here in America, most are. In both cases, youd think that those leading the charge against these crimes would be the law-abiding members of the community who far outnumber the criminals, but thats not whats happening. While there are a few voices calling out from within, the vast majority of the members of Pakistani Brits and black Americans do just the opposite. They blame right-wing hate for noticing the problem and institutional racism, which deflects responsibility. That makes no sense. Most Pakistanis arent committing crimes in Britain, and most blacks arent committing crimes in America. Given the negative consequences these crimes bring to their communities, it would make sense for the leaders of those communities to rally the members of said community to identify and hold accountable the criminals in their midst. One would think so, but thats not happening to any significant degree. While elements of the current firestorm about the rapes going on in Britain suggest hope , and here in America the election of Donald Trump does the same, the reality is that these problems can not be solved externally. Although the politicians and jurists must be held accountable for their abetting of the crimes , it wont be enough. If Pakistanis in Britain dont take the lead in identifying and holding accountable the criminals in their midst, their communities will suffer in the long run as an even greater divide develops with the larger population. Similarly, in America, if black leaders dont abandon the victimization grift and focus their communities on exposing, marginalizing, and defeating the criminal elements within, the long-term consequences will be brutal, from vanishing economic opportunities to increasing food deserts to continued black-on-black blood in the streets. If Pakistanis in Britain dont take the lead in identifying and holding accountable the criminals in their midst, their communities will suffer in the long run as an even greater divide develops with the larger population. Similarly, in America, if black leaders dont abandon the victimization grift and focus their communities on exposing, marginalizing, and defeating the criminal elements within, the long-term consequences will be brutal, from vanishing economic opportunities to increasing food deserts to continued black-on-black blood in the streets. Whether its Xs coverage of the Grooming Gang scandals or Donald Trumps promise to eviscerate DEI in America, its to be hoped that 2025 will be the beginning of a long overdue return to something resembling sanity. Follow Vince on X at ImperfectUSA The outgoing Biden administration is wreaking slow-motion havoc on America. Plans and projects of regime transformation, regulations, and new rules to tie up the law in both straightforward and convoluted ways, and other actions to hastily circumvent MAGA, are being ginned up and rammed through as Biden goes out the door. These perversions of executive authority, at once reckless and carefully designed, plainly sweeping and seemingly trivial, are a fitting epitaph for the lawless and incompetent Biden administration. That doesnt make them any more palatable, of course, and the question is what to do about it. Starting January 20, the Trump administration can deploy a limited lawfare, narrowly tailored to punish present and former executive-branch officials who figured they could get away with setting America on paths which it would be ill-advised to take by means as peremptory and Machiavellian as the officials imposed (or attempted to impose) on the country. Limited lawfare doesnt have to concern only actions in the interregnum between an incoming and an outgoing administration. But a presidential interregnum is ideal for showing how limited lawfare can work. For one thing: it focuses mainly on government operatives, not largely on private citizens such as the J6 protesters. This reminds us that U.S. district attorneys and their subordinates are not exempt; real light can thereby be thrown on the false braying of progressives about the rule of law. Matthew Gravess actions, and not only in the interregnum (he resigned last week as U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia), invite particular scrutiny. Also, charges need not be brought only in Washington, D.C.; they can be brought in any area of the country affected by miscreant officials actions. One priority of limited lawfare this year might be the targeting of officials making -- since the election but before Trump takes office -- hastily-contrived legal changes that expand or solidify immigration. Another might be the targeting of officials who in that same period provided money and weapons to Ukraine from the discretionary budget, and of American intelligence officers who give Ukraine indispensable military-target information. Officials in the Biden administration are the ones indulging in institutional trickery right now. They are the correct recipients of limited lawfare. The Trump administrations lawfare can be restricted to these people, and not engaged in more widely. As always, the problem is identifying all the culprits. To do this, the general approach should be to start with the person(s) with the ultimate line authority in the relevant segment of government, while keeping in mind that two or more segments of government might be involved in any given perversion of executive authority. Then unspool the thread down to, say, the GS-15 level of federal government officialdom. Work from the top to the bottom, and not the other way around. Apply a sort of upside-down subsidiarity principle, whereby the highest explicable -- or formally responsible -- government official is the person to target first in every offending executive-branch segment. For practical purposes, administrative-branch officials, whose authority formally stems from the executive branch, will be included. Narrowly-tailored lawfare is not only justified in extreme circumstances (such as we seem to be seeing with the Biden administration in its nihilistic panic about its expiration date), but may be necessary to limit the damage, especially in the longer run by discouraging such activities via the threat of the lawfare cudgel. As a hypothetical illustration, suppose we know that some Chinese agents in an isolated building in Chicago are about to unleash a devastating virus on the country, and the best way to stop it, and prevent the virus from escaping, is to unexpectedly hit them from all sides with flamethrowers, in contravention of international law after World War II, which strictly forbids the use of flamethrowers against an enemy. Thats what limited lawfare amounts to. It aint pretty, but its eminently salutary in how well it gets the job done. Nothing else may work quite so well. Call it tough justice, akin to tough love. What if limited lawfare is abused? If it is, we will take that to be a lesson learned -- in the very process by which payback (a dose of your own medicine) is administered. We will know then what to avoid in the future, whether it be only the unlimited lawfare as practiced by Democrats in recent years (with the scandalous support of most law professors), or whether limited lawfare also presents unacceptably great risks. Let experience be our guide. Limited lawfare scales down lawfare in the same way that John Rawlss Political Liberalism scales down liberalism. Although a full theory of justified lawfare may eventually be needed, limited lawfare is intuitively a plausible conception. We simply construe justified lawfare as that which is narrowly tailored and directed at a well-defined class of government officials. Thus, Trumps corrective lawfare will be weighed against the degree of the manipulativeness, peremptoriness, and maliciousness of certain actions of the outgoing Biden folks. (The Supreme Court loves weighing X against Y.) In short, this nascent theory of limited lawfare is a calibrated way of fighting fire with fire. Its not dissimilar to Israels efficient and nuanced way of fighting Hamas and Hezballah. To Democrats abusing the tools of executive-branch power at the close of the Biden administration, just know that your current activities might come back to bite you. Image: AT via Magic Studio The New York Post reports, "LinkedIn banned proud Jew Manhattan CPA for pro-Israel posts, lawsuit claims" and adds that the platform failed to remove posts and comments such as "Death to Israel, and one that depicted Jews as "cruel and emotionless animals that need to be extinct." These are but two of equally bad or even worse examples, including a wish that Hitler had "finished the job." The entire complaint, which may be viewed here, alleges among other things that LinkedIn committed breach of contract, namely, the rules posted on its own Web site. "42. Pursuant to LINKEDINs own terms and conditions of its user agreement, in the event of any violations by the user, LINKEDIN is to notify the user of the specific violation." "58. LINKEDIN breached its contract with STROHL by failing to specify and/or inform him of the alleged 'violation' of its 'terms and conditions'" If the above allegation is true, then LinkedIn looks guilty of breach of its own one-sided "take it or leave it" (adhesion) contract that it posted on its website. This, as I recall from my MBA business law class long ago, looks very ominous for LinkedIn. "Courts often resolve ambiguities or inconsistencies in favor of the weaker party, as the stronger party is presumed to have had greater control over the drafting process." You Keep What You Don't Delete More to the point is, however, an issue I raised some time ago with regard to social media platform moderation; "you keep what you don't delete." That is, you own the platform and you are free to delete whatever content you want, terminate user accounts for any reason or no reason -- although the latter might not pass muster in this lawsuit -- but then you are responsible for what you don't delete, especially after it is brought to your attention. "You keep what you don't delete" is exactly what demoted MoveOn.org from a major political influence to second or third-rate status in 2006. It failed to remove the most vicious imaginable hate speech against Jews, Catholics, and Evangelical Christians along with a post that depicted black soldiers as potential mutineers who should not have weapons. MoveOn tried to claim it didn't see the hate speech, but its own FAQ page said the moderators read each post twice to get ideas. In addition, their users voted up the hate speech on an overwhelming basis. MoveOn is still online but I don't remember even hearing about it during the 2024 election cycle; it was a prominent player in 2006. The same issue should have finished the Obama campaign in 2008, as the site welcomed anti-Semitic commentary along with depictions of black Hillary Clinton supporters as house slaves, complete with blackface narrative such as "Massa Clinton been good to us. Git on 'way from here Obama. You gon cause problem fo us all!!" It's LinkedIn's turn to experience "you keep what you don't delete." What LinkedIn Didn't Delete In addition to the two items cited by the New York Post, I have personal knowledge that I saw the following posts or comments, reported them, and was told they did not violate the Professional Community Policies. Some were apparently later removed, e.g. after enough people complained or they became subjects of public controversy, but they were not removed when they were first brought to LinkedIn's attention. When you report a post, LinkedIn blocks you from seeing it so I took screen shots first. "I guess someone in Germany in the 40s didn't complete the job, and the whole world is suffering." "Jews have no legal land on this planet earth see the history but they want greater Israel. Prejudice nation. Grabbing the whole world in the name of loans and economically crucial way hanky panky." I reported as hateful speech a photomanipulation of Benjamin Netanyahu with a toothbrush mustache, and combination swastika and Star of David, and was told, "A member of our Trust & Safety team reviewed the post and found it does not go against our Professional Community Policies." "Basically it's all about money the jews have cemented themselves into usa us politics and business." This was however later removed. "You wouldn't tell the world that the Judeo-Nazis are living on land that belongs to those who fire the rockets" "finally a Jew acknowledges the vaccine is a weapon. I knew it all along. The worst part is the whole nation of Israel poisoned its people." The individual's profile is now gone from LinkedIn, so action may have been taken later, but I was told when it happened there was no violation. "To be elected you have to pledge allegiance to the Neocon-Zionists cabal and the Military Industrial Complex." "Every time I think this under race has reached the rock bottom of abjectness, they show they always find a way to go lower. Am always wondering what their mothers were eating before they let them get out of their [excrement emoji]sses." The Jewish Chronicle alleges, "'Jews are pigs' remark and term Zionazi are not breaches of our rules, says network." "Another post referred to 'Zionazi criminals on $tolen Palestinian land'. LinkedIn did not remove the post, but said the remark did not breach its rules and suggested the complainant unfollow or mute the user in question." See also UK Lawyers for Israel on this matter. As for what is posted on LinkedIn even today, a Google search on site:linkedin.com and "Zionazis" is highly instructive. Another user alleges, as discovered by a Google search, "OK, Microsoft, so an 'Hitler was right' comment under a LinkedIn post about Israel/Palestine conflict 'does not go against our Professional Community Policies'?" Why is This Happening and What Can be Done? The lawsuit alleges further, "64. Upon information and belief, LINKEDIN outsources much of its content moderation to countries known to harbor a lot of antisemitic sentiment including but not limited to Pakistan and South Africa." Perhaps this lawsuit will finally get to the bottom of the problem. In the meantime, the right course of action might be to send LinkedIn's advertisers -- many have ethics and compliance hotlines -- screen shots of Trust & Safety approved hate speech so the advertisers can, to paraphrase General Sir Charles Napier, decide LinkedIn can manage its platform however it wants and they will spend their advertising money however they want. I also encourage users in Germany, where LinkedIn has a substantial presence, to report to German authorities all posts that suggest in any way that "Hitler was right" because that is verboten under German law. Even if the people who post this material are not subject to German law, LinkedIn is. Civis Americanus is the pen name of a contributor who remembers the lessons of history, and wants to ensure that our country never needs to learn those lessons again the hard way. Image: Ben Scholzen Whats the difference between weather and climate? Lets ask the expert class, the governmental National Weather Service. Weather is defined as the state of the atmosphere at a given time and place, with respect to variables such as temperature, moisture, wind speed and direction, and barometric pressure. Climate is defined as the expected frequency of specific states of the atmosphere, ocean, and land, including variables such as temperature, salinity, soil moisture, wind speed and direction, and current strength and direction. It encompasses the weather over different periods of time and also relates to mutual interactions between the components of the earth system (e.g., atmospheric composition, volcanic eruptions, changes in the earths orbit around the sun, and changes in the energy from the sun itself). Thats a mouthful, a typical governmental explanation. Simply put, weather is short-term, meaning days or a few weeks, while climate is long-term, meaning years, centuries, or longer. Image by Grok Its sunny and unseasonably warm where I am today, but a week ago, it was snowy and unseasonably cold. A climate warrior might label the former as global warming, the latter as global cooling, or the composite as climate change. A rational person would call it weather. The United Nations (UN) defines climate change, Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. Such shifts can be natural, due to changes in the suns activity or large volcanic eruptions. But since the 1800s, human activities have been the main driver of climate change, primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas. The first sentence is undeniably true. The Great Lakes were once covered by mile-thick ice sheets that disappeared when the glaciers retreated 10,000 years ago. This is not long ago, considering the Earths 4.5 billion-year age. Somehow, the climate cooled and warmed long before any significant human activity existed. And how many additional times did this happen in the past 4.5 billion years? But the UN believes humans are the main driver of climate change since the 1800s, not explaining how climate changed so drastically 10,000 years ago to melt a mile-thick ice sheet during a time of minuscule human activity. The UN relies on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), that reports in a scary fashion, Many of the changes observed in the climate are unprecedented in thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of years, and some of the changes already set in motionsuch as continued sea level riseare irreversible over hundreds to thousands of years. Is todays climate unprecedented? Do they know the temperatures hundreds of thousands of years ago? They should, as this data is readily available, published in the prestigious journal Science. Researchers reconstructed global mean surface temperature using data assimilation, integrating geological data with climate model simulations. They discovered that the Earths temperature has varied more dynamically than previously thought. Screenshot Washington Post and Science Todays global temperature is low. It was last this cold 300 million years ago. According to the chart, Planet Earth has been cooling for the past 50 million years. Any man-made warming would be helpful now. Scientists should know better, as should corporate media. But obviously, they dont. I reference a few articles from this year in The Guardian, a two-hundred-year-old British newspaper considered a newspaper of record in the UK (along with the London Times), much like The New York Times in America. As a British newspaper, the Guardian has observed climate change firsthand, reporting on it cooling, then warming, then cooling again. Another record is the recent (in geological terms) history of the Thames River. Between 1309 and 1814, it froze at least 23 times. There was a frost fair in 1608 when the river froze for over six weeks. What caused this freeze? Londons activity in the 1600s was mainly overcrowding, disease, and crime, not air conditioners, internal combustion engines, and backyard grills. More recently, the river froze over in 1963 and again partially in 2021. This seems to be normal cyclic climate change, far from the man-made global warming the UN and IPCC warn about. The Guardian ran two stories this year without a bit of irony. In February of this year, their headline was What will Spain look like when it runs out of water? Barcelona is giving us a glimpse. In October, the new headline was Spain floods: number killed passes 150 as scientists say climate change most likely explanation as it happened. From running out of water to flooding, all within a few months. Its dry, then its wet. Its cold, then its warm. And vice versa. Its also normal. But The Guardian wants it both ways. Its all climate change, in their view. A month ago, the paper wrote, Spains deadly floods and droughts are two faces of the climate crisis coin. In other words, all forms of weather are climate change. CNN wants it both ways, too. In December 2023, it ran a headline, Winter is here, but its losing its cool. One year later, without a bit of irony or introspection, it reversed itself with this headline, Its about to get dangerously cold, even for winter. Much like racism, when everything is considered racist, then nothing is. The same is true for climate change. Psychologists call this confirmation bias, People display this bias when they select information that supports their views, ignoring contrary information, or when they interpret ambiguous evidence as supporting their existing attitudes. The effect is strongest for desired outcomes, for emotionally charged issues, and for deeply entrenched beliefs. It is also hubris to believe that we can predict, much less control, the climate. The IPCC readily admits, The climate system is a coupled non-linear chaotic system, and therefore, the long-term prediction of future climate states is impossible. Yet Al Gore, Greta Thunberg, John Kerry, and other climate experts claim to know exactly how many years it will be until the Earth is uninhabitable. Speaking of Al Gore, I recommend Joel Gilberts new film, The Climate According to AI Al Gore, where Joel interviews an AI Gore, debunking Gores conviction, expertise, and the entire climate emergency of the left. To the fearmongering, climate-catastrophizing left, its all humans fault, and with ever-increasing command-and-control diktats, rules, regulations, and taxes, we can affect forces beyond our comprehension and control. The climate is indeed changingit always has and always will. Temperatures will likely rise from their current 500 million-year low regardless of what the so-called experts, activists, or any world government agencies say or do. In their attempts to regulate and tinker with Mother Nature, they may inadvertently destroy everything they are attempting to saveunless thats the plan. Brian C Joondeph, MD, is a physician and writer. Follow me on Twitter @retinaldoctor Substack Dr. Brians Substack Truth Social @BrianJoondeph LinkedIn @Brian Joondeph Email brianjoondeph@gmail.com Cuba became an independent country in 1902. You can divide the islands history into two periods: the pre-Castro years and the current regimes period in power since 1959. I was born in the last decade of pre-Castro Cuba. My story so typical of the other kids born in the 1950s. We were the grandchildren or great-grandchildren of immigrants from Spain or elsewhere. Our ancestors came to Cuba because it was a prosperous island, an attractive place for Spaniards seeking a better life, for Jewish refugees from Europe, hardworking Asians, and others. It was a young and vibrant country with hope and a future. In other words, the island of Cuba attracted people rather than driving its citizens away looking for a future. It is really sad to watch Cuba today, from energy blackouts to importing sugar. Let me repeat: importing sugar. As a result, the young escape and look for a better life, preferably in the U.S. The old get stuck behind. As I saw yesterday, Cuba is on track to have the oldest population in Latin America. It is even more painful when you realize that pre-Castro Cuba attracted thousands of immigrants from all over the world, as our friend Dr Carlos Eire wrote: Between 1900 and 1930, the first three decades of Cuban independence, about one million immigrants flooded into the island, mostly European, and mostly northern Spaniards. This population tsunami also included Asians, Levantines, and Jews. These immigrants doubled the population of the island and changed its complexion, literally. Tens of thousands of immigrants continued to flow into Cuba every year after that, up to 1958. Immigration from the U.S. was comparatively slight, but in 1958 there were more Americans living in Cuba than Cubans in the U.S.A. Emigration from Cuba was minimal during this half century. Rates of immigration as high as this and of emigration as low require a robust and growing economy, and a considerable degree of political stability. To wither is to shrivel, fade, decay, or lose the freshness of youth. Cuba is indeed withering today. So another January to remember the tragedy of Cuba and how much longer it will go on. P.S. Check out my blog for posts, podcasts and videos. Image: Pixabay Right before Christmas, California proudly boasted that those who pointed to its shrinking population as proof that its leftist policies are a disaster were wrong. The California population, they said, is back! However, the missing detail was that the growth came from outside the U.S. (read: illegal aliens). Now, theres further evidence that Americans want nothing to do with California, including Californians themselves. Right before Christmas, a Los Angeles Times article announced that Californias population grew by almost a quarter of a million residents in 2024, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, a rebound that brings the state almost back to its pre-pandemic numbers. The implication, of course, was that former residents were coming back home and that residents of other states were finding their way to the leftist glories of the Golden State. Image by Grok However, the devil is (as always) in the details. In the 12th paragraph, the LA Times essay admitted that the growing population stems largely from international migration and natural population increases...not domestic migration. My take was then (and continues to be today), that the international migration is of the illegal variety. If Trump starts deporting Californias new immigrants because theyre here illegally, expect what H. Ross Perot once memorably described it as a giant sucking sound. Thatll be the illegal alien population draining hard and fast back to south of the border, down Mexico way. Today, U-Haul confirmed that legal Americans arent moving to California: For the 5th year in a row, CA has ranked last out of 50 states in U-Haul growth data pic.twitter.com/5TZwubhiij End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) January 5, 2025 U-Haul tracked the number of people moving into every state in 2024: Top Five: #1 - SC #2 - TX #3 - NC #4 - FL #5 - TN Bottom Five: #46 - PA #47 - NY #48 - NJ #49 - MA #50 - CA (5th year in a row) End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) January 5, 2025 However, its not just that people arent coming to California. Its also that Californians are still leaving as fast as they can: U-Haul has a new report out and once again for the fifth year in a row the once Golden State finished on top of the U-Haul Growth Index meaning more Californians rented one-way U-Haul trucks to leave the state in 2024, than residents of any other state. When I look at what Gavin Newsom and his buddies have done to California, the lovely state in which I grew up and the fading state in which I raised my children, all I can think of is Bones McCoy in the original Star Trek series, saying some variation of Hes dead, Jim. California is dead. The Americans who built it over the last 170 years are gone, replaced by people who are takers, not builders, who have no concept of constitutional liberty, and who have no love for this country. There is an undeniable fact of life when it comes to the state of nations. It is that they are always in the state of flux and that their cultural, political, economic and actual physical boundaries change over time. The reasons are many, but the principal one is due to the ravages and results of war. We in Europe are more keenly aware of this than our neighbors in North America, although the U.S. has seen its territory expand over time due not to colonialization but to outright purchases of land. The U.S. bought the Danish West Indies islands from Denmark in 1917 for $25 million. In 1867, it purchased Alaska for $7.2 million from Russia and before that, in 1854, the U.S. bought nearly 46,000 square kilometers from Mexico (the Gadsden Purchase) for $10 million which later became parts of the states of Arizona and New Mexico. In 1803, the U.S. acquired over 2 million square kilometers of land from France for $15 million effectively increasing the size of the country by 50%. Other treaties, some of which were the result of the spoils of war gave the U.S. land such as Florida, Puerto Rico, and Guam. Outright purchases of a foreign country's land were a rarity in Europe. Land was often lost as the result of a defeat in a war or a treaty of mutual convenience. Since the end of the Napoleonic Wars in 1815, the European map has changed dramatically and is still changing due to incursions by Russia into Ukraine, for example. The fight to keep a country's sovereignty is often waged on the battlefield, but sometimes it is the result of financial pressures. In the case of Greenland, an island slightly larger than Alaska, but with a population of just under 60,000, it has been under Nordic rule since the 14th century when it was joined at the hip to Denmark which also had dominion over Norway. The actual colonialization process of Greenland began in earnest in the 18th century. Denmark formally declared sovereignty over Greenland in 1921. After winning a land claim in 1933 that was brought by Norway, Greenland was firmly in Danish hands until On April 9, 1940, Denmark was invaded and taken over by Nazi Germany and Greenland was left on its own, as an unoccupied territory of an occupied nation placed in a very precarious position and subject to the possibility of seizure by a foreign power. The U.S. stepped in, and a year later signed an agreement with Denmark to hand over the defense and control of Greenland after it "occupied" the country with a force of volunteers sent to protect it from occupation by Germany or other powers. After the war, the Danish parliament ratified the agreement and began the work of negotiating leases with the U.S. The year 1951 was an important one for the U.S./Greenland relationship. Both signed a treaty which gave the the U.S. exclusive jurisdiction over defense areas within Greenland. It was at that point that Danish pragmatism ruled that the Danes' views of the U.S.-Denmark partnership and paved the way for an even closer relationship with the U.S. Greenland has evolved into a geopolitical and strategic chess piece. But it is no longer a pawn on the board. Instead, it is becoming more like a rook able to manipulate and form its own future now that it has the mobility and leverage that comes from its ability to hold a referendum on its relationship with Denmark. While the average Greenlander probably isn't a student of geopolitics nor has he read the Art of War or other books about tactics and strategies, Greenlanders are not total isolationsists nor ignorant of the outside world. They are a proud and simple indigenous people with long traditions and a symbiotic relationship with their natural surroundings. As such, they have a culture and way of life to preserve and protect. This would explain the sentiment of Greenland's leader, Prime Minister Mute Egede, who this past Wednesday announced a desire for the independence of the island. And should the Greenlanders wish to integrate aspects of the modern world into their culture they can and will when and if the time and conditions are right. They are well aware of why the world is interested in their country and I expect that they are somewhat conflicted by it. Their political and cultural relationships with Denmark (and the United States) are longstanding ones. In 1979, Greenland attained home rule. In 2004, Greenland and the U.S. agreed to a modernization of the Thule Air Base. In 2008, Greenlanders voted by referendum for more autonomy from Denmark. In 2013, Greenland ended its 25-year ban on mining of radioactive materials. In 2023, Greenland finished its draft of its new constitution. It is still a draft and is being studied and was made possible by the Self Rule arrangements with Denmark adopted in 2009 which stated that Greenland is free to initiate a preparatory constitutional process. However, should the leadership in Nuuk, which is Greenland's capital, vote on and pass into law any active alternative to the Danish constitution it would most likely be regarded by the Danish government as a first step toward secession. According to Danish law, there can be only one Grundlov, or, constitution. Anything that deviates from that would be in contravention of the Danish/Greenlandic relationship and would endanger the annual Danish block grant of money to Greenland, which presently pays for just over half of Greenland's public expenditures and represents 20% of its total economy. The U.S., on the other hand, spends billions in Greenland for operations and maintenance services which include airfield operations, civil engineering, environmental management, food and health services, supply and fuel logistics, seaport, transportation, vehicle maintenance, and community and recreation services. But what about the Greenlandic people? What do they want? Besides the hard-core separatists, who do all they can to fan the flames of self-rule, the Greenlandic population is supportive of separation from Denmark, politically. According to a poll cited by Arctic Today, about two-thirds of Greenlanders support the country achieving independence. The really groundbreaking piece of news is that 43.5% of the 67.7% who support the vision of independence also believe that secession from Denmark will have positive or even very positive effects on Greenlands economy. Statistically, that translates into 32.4% of the total electorate. Among the 38.4% who say they would vote 'yes' to independence, even if it was to happen already tomorrow, a whopping 62.3% expect independence to bring also a better economy. There is another interesting aspect of the new draft Greenland constitution and it is the establishment of "free association" status. On an international level, free association is recognized by the United Nations as an acceptable governance form (a number of independent island states in the Pacific are freely associated with either New Zealand or the U.S., for example). For a number of Greenlanders, free association has been high on the political agenda in the country for decades. For the Danes this is a varm kartoffel or hot potato issue and not on the front burner of public political discourse in Denmark, although Donald Trump's statement on the possible purchase of Greenland a few years back and reiterated recently has made it a popular issue for the Danish media to pursue. Americans in the U.S. and those of us expats in Denmark, can expect the U.S./Denmark/Greenland nexus to be a topic of continuing conversation as more "bidders" come forward and show their hands. One thing we must never forget, however, is that Greenlanders are a sovereign people with a long history and culture of which they are enormously proud, and it is incumbent upon all who would present a plan for future cooperation to come to the table with that in mind. After all, real estate ownership comes with certain responsibilities, and in the case of an entire territory, it never affords the owners the right to ignore the culture of the neighborhood. That can never be for sale. Stephen Helgesen is a retired career U.S. diplomat who lived and worked in 30 countries for 25 years during the Reagan, G.H.W. Bush, Clinton, and G.W. Bush Administrations. He is the author of fourteen books, seven of which are on American politics and has written over 1,400 articles on politics, economics and social trends. He can be reached at: stephenhelgesen@gmail.com Image: Pexels / Pexels License How does Joe Biden still hate us, America? Let us count some of the ways, here: 1. U.S. Presidential Medal of Freedom awarded to: a. Hillary Clinton b. George Soros Do These Come with Pardons? "Seriously, two of the worst people on earth, online commentator Blake Habyan wrote on X of Clinton and Soros. 2. Flying U.S. flags at half-mast on 1/20/25 for Jimmy Carter, who died at the age of 100: 'When did he die?' On Friday, Trump posted on social media that Democrats are all giddy about the notion that flags will be lowered when he takes office as president. 3. Biden to block oil drilling across 625 million acres of U.S. waters. Ill get to those gas stoves and furnaces, dammit. The Washington Post reports: The president will sign memorandums prohibiting future oil and gas leasing across parts of the Atlantic Ocean, the Pacific Ocean, the eastern Gulf of Mexico and the Northern Bering Sea. 4. More for Mr. Z, T-shirt Guy: $1.25 billion for Ukraines most urgent needs. Does that include groceries and home mortgages? According to the Department of Defense: This is the Biden Administration's twenty-third USAI package and seventy-third tranche of equipment to be provided from DoD inventories for Ukraine since August 2021. 5. Biden's pawn, Justice Juan Merchan of New York changes his mind, again, and signals a last-minute Trump sentencing. Liar, Liar Pants on Fire : This judge is hot; was he really a CPA in his past life? According to Breitbart News: In December, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg issued a legal filing suggesting that Merchan not toss out issuing a ruling in Trumps business records trial. Braggs suggestion came after Merchan granted a request in November brought forward by Trumps attorneys for permission to file a motion to dismiss. According to Charlie Kirk, writing on X: Judge Juan Merchan signals in his written decision that President Trump will face neither jail time nor penalties at his New York sentencing next week. WTF: Not locking him up, yet? Dont blame Biden! Nothing else has worked! Yet. Thats all for now, folks! Image: Pixabay / Pixabay License I worked for 20 years with a lawyer who was the most brilliant man Ive ever known. After 9/11, he said something to me that Ive never forgotten: Islam is all about controlling women for sexual access. Muslim men sequester their women for their private access, and they view all non-Muslim women as available for sexual use by Muslim men. Their war on the West is to maintain their women and obtain Western women. (And, of course, the big ticket item for martyrdom is those 72 heavenly virgins each martyr gets to despoil.) I thought of my friends insight when I read an essay from The Telegraph entitled How the grooming gangs scandal was covered up. The subtitle is, The child victims of rape were denied justice and protection from the state to preserve the image of a successful multicultural society. (I do not believe the essay is behind a paywall, but if it is, you can also find it here.) The article offers some insights into how Muslims believe non-Muslim women deserve to be treatedand youd better have a strong stomach: The following paragraph makes for difficult reading. But you should read it, if you can. Its drawn from Judge Peter Rooks 2013 sentencing of Mohammed Karrar in Oxford. Mohammed prepared his victim for gang anal rape by using a pump... You subjected her to a gang rape by five or six men. At one point she had four men inside her. A red ball was placed in her mouth to keep her quiet. [snip] In Telford, Lucy Lowe died at 16 alongside her mother and sister when her abuser set fire to her home in 2000. She had given birth to Azhar Ali Mahmoods child when she was just 14, and was pregnant when she was killed. Her death was subsequently used to threaten other children. The Telford Inquiry found particularly brutal threats. When one victim aged 12 told her mother, and the mother called the police, there was about six or seven Asian men who came to my house. They threatened my mum saying theyll petrol bomb my house if we dont drop the charges. (The above stories, of course, are just the tip of the iceberg. They were repeated across England, with horrifying variations on these themes.) In addition to highlighting at least a little of the horrible abuse visited on young British children (mostly girls, but occasionally boys), with estimates ranging from tens of thousands to a million children being trafficked over thirty years, the other point the article makes is that both local governments and the national government were terrified of making their Muslim residents angry, lest it harm multicultural cohesion. Thus, to placate Muslims, who sometimes made up as little as 3% of a local community at the time, and to support the lie that multiculturalism (as opposed to assimilation) is a net benefit, British institutions willingly sacrificed British children. Another thing comes through in the essay, although its subtle and never clearly stated: The trafficked British children mostly didnt have fathers, or their fathers were cowed by the police or by threats from Muslim men. Multiple pathologies were operating there: The pathology of the war on the nuclear family, the pathology of people so lacking in cultural values that they were unable to stand up for them, the pathology of a culture in which free speech is forbidden against those whom the political class values (i.e., Muslims), and the pathology of a disarmed society, which means that the government is the master, not the servant, of the people. We in America are still clinging by our fingertips to guns and free speech (and we can thank Elon Musk for the latter), but we, too, have broken nuclear families while our elite and academic classes are relentlessly chipping away at our constitutional, Judeo-Christian, American values and replacing them with a mindless reverence for multiculturalism. The UK is falling into the abyss; we are teetering on the edge. The other day, when I wrote about this, I suggested that Elon Musk, by bringing to light the way British institutions are trying to bury the rape gang story, might bring down Prime Minister Starmers vile Labour government, paving the way for Nigel Farage and his Reform UK party to come to power. Ive since changed my mind. A British government falls and calls immediate elections when a vote of no confidence comes from within the party. But in this case, everyone in the party is complicit either in the cover-up (including, possibly, Starmer himself) or in the values that led to the pass given to Islamic sex depredations against British children. Because the government is the problem, it cannot solve the problem. Nor will pressure from the people change that. The people are helpless, having willingly (and often smugly) given up their arms. They pose no threat to the government, so their rage is ineffectual in changing the status quo. And lastly, I can assure you that King Charles will not touch this whole thing with a ten-foot pole. He is a leftist, and theres no indication that he is a morally courageous man. The demand that he dissolve the government will fall on deaf ears. At the end of the day, Muslims fight for sex, and the British government fights for the Muslim right to rape British teenage girls. A country that once believed in itself and practiced muscular Christianity is now nothing more than a sleazy pimp for Islam. Image of the real English government by Grok. Week after week, weve watch Hamas negotiating with Israel for a ceasefire. Recently, participants and observers were celebrating that headway was being made, but as usual, Hamas broke off activities once again. The terrorists remain focused on their major goal: driving Israelis into the sea. Any agreement short of that will be a failure to them. So why do these negotiations continue? What does either side hope to accomplish? Exploring the issues on both sides has been a passion of mine; I admit that I am a Jew and have visited Israel several time, but not lately. Still, like most Westerners, I want to live to see peace in the Middle East. A book I just read was probably intended to suggest there was a way to peace. After I finished reading it, however, the possibility of reaching a practical and workable agreement seems extremely unlikely. The book I read, Ghosts of a Holy War: The 1929 Massacre in Palestine That Ignited the Arab-Israeli Conflict, by Yardena Schwartz, spends a small amount of the narrative on recent occurrences, such as Oct. 7. I found its focus educational and insightful regarding the long-term relationship of the Jews and the Arabs. I learned the limitations that both sides bring to the conflict, as well as their history. The story begins by introducing us to a Jewish man, David Shainberg from Memphis, Tennessee, who went to Israel to study at Yeshiva; he chose the Yeshiva in Hebron, Israel (which was called Palestine at the time). After his death, a family member discovered letters that he had sent home from Hebron, and she shared the letters with the author of this book. The letters ignited the curiosity of Yardena Schwartz, and set her on a journey to learn the story of David Shainberg, the events that led to the Hebron pogrom, and to see if she could discern the differences and similarities to what had occurred in Hebron on August 24, 1929, and Oct. 7, 2023. David Shainberg fell in love with Palestine, the Jewish people and his study at the yeshiva. After arriving in Palestine in September 1928, he immersed himself in the experience with deep devotion and learning. He discovered the existence of relative peace between the Arabs and Jews: The relative harmony between Jews and Arabs in Hebron was rare in a country largely divided along religious lines. In Hebron, Jews and Arabs celebrated weddings and holidays together. They did business together. Jews traveled between Jerusalem and Hebron in Arab buses, taxis, and horse-drawn carts. But for David Shainberg, this idyllic existence was short-lived. For weeks, rumors had been circulating, inspired by the Grand Mufti Amin al-Husseini: Rumors quickly spread in Muslim circles and the Arabic press: the Jewish youth who marched to the Western Wall on August 15 had attacked Muslim residents, cursed the Prophet Muhammad, and raped Muslim women. None of this was true. [snip] Outside the mosque, sheikhs delivered speeches to growing crowds. The Jews have killed a thousand Arabs in Jerusalem, declared one of the mosques preachers, Mahmud Sultan. The Jews have taken the Wailing Wall and Al-Aqsa, and if you wait longer the Jews will also take the Patriarchs Tomb. In truth, the Jews had conquered nothing, and no one was being killed by the thousands. The actual riot/pogrom began on August 24, 1929: On the morning of August 24, 1929, 3,000 Muslim men armed with swords, axes, and daggers marched through the Jewish Quarter of Hebron. They went from house to house, raping, stabbing, torturing, and in some cases castrating and burning alive their unarmed Jewish victims. Sixty-seven Jewish men, women, and children were murdered, and dozens more wounded. The riots spread all over the country, and lasted several days, with little effort from the British to protect the Jews. David Shainberg was killed. When it was over, a commission called the Shaw Commission conducted an investigation. They insisted that the Grand Mufti played no role in instigating the riots. One person, however, felt that the truth needed to be told about the situation: [Sir Henry] Snell, a socialist politician of the Labour Party who would go on to be party leader, disagreed chiefly with the recommendation to restrict Jewish immigration and land purchases. What is required in Palestine, he concluded, is not a change in policy so much as a change of mind on the part of the Arab population, who have been encouraged to believe that they have suffered a great wrong and that the immigrant Jew constitutes a permanent menace to their livelihood. These fears are not only exaggerated, he wrote, but wrong. The Arab people stand to gain rather than to lose from Jewish enterprise. Unfortunately, the Grand Mufti and other Arab leaders did not agree. The solution, from their standpoint, was to simply remove all the Jews. After the Oct. 7 massacre, polls were taken to assess the reactions of the Palestinians to the attacks: Palestinian polls showed widespread support for Al-Aqsa Flood [a name for the Hamas attack], and a rise in support for Hamas itself. One poll conducted in late November by a Ramallah-based research group found that three-quarters of Palestinians approved of the attack. The same poll found that support for Hamas in the West Bank had tripled since October 7. The reason for exploring and comparing these two major events in Palestine/Israel, which occurred many years apart is to suggest the following: nothing significant has changed. The barbarity and hatred of both incidents was similar. Permission for the Arab population to tell lies and spread rumors about the Jews were pervasive in Hebron, as well as in Gaza. To this day, many people are in denial about the events in Gaza. According to an op-ed in the Jerusalem Post: For many, recent events are difficult to swallow, contain, or comprehend. How does one react to horrific accounts of mass rape, mutilation, and savage sexual violence? Some would rather not know about it in order to protect themselves, and some prefer to treat it with disbelief. Still, it happened. It all happened massively on Oct. 7. Those who invest their energy in attempts to blur the incidents should not be referred to as serious journalists. The implications of these findings are dire. How is it possible to bring peace between the Palestinians and Israelis when there is no way to know who truly wants peace? Ms. Schwartz says moderate Israelis and Palestinians must be found, but how will either side know the true hearts of the others? Even if Hamas is removed from governance, how will they be kept out of Gazan rule? The Palestinians elected Hamas to govern Gaza, even when they knew they were terrorists. Is there any reason to think that the Palestinians have sincerely reformed? Yes, there were Arabs in 1929 who saved the lives of Jews in Hebron. Yes, there are many Palestinians who want nothing to do with Hamas today. If other entities are brought in to govern Gaza (if anyone wants to take on this impossible task), how will they govern fairly and effectively? A long-term peace is simply not possible. Image: Pixabay / Pixabay License Think Joe Biden and Gavin Newsom are the only ones looking to hamstring and "Trump-proof" the incoming Trump administration? It looks like Pope Francis has decided to get in on that act, too. According to the Catholic Standard: Pope Francis on Jan. 6, 2025 named Cardinal Robert W. McElroy, the bishop of the Catholic Diocese of San Diego, as the new archbishop of Washington. As the archbishop of Washington, Cardinal McElroy succeeds Cardinal Wilton Gregory, who has served in that role since 2019. On Jan. 6, Pope Francis also accepted the resignation of Cardinal Gregory as the archbishop of Washington. As required by Church law, Cardinal Gregory had submitted his resignation to the pope two years ago after he turned 75 on Dec. 7, 2022. The appointment and resignation were announced in Washington, D.C., by Cardinal Christophe Pierre, the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States. The date of the installation for Cardinal McElroy as the eighth archbishop of Washington has not yet been set. Until his installation, Cardinal McElroy is the archbishop-elect of Washington, and Cardinal Gregory, who is now 77, will serve as the apostolic administrator of The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington, which includes 655,000 Catholics, 140 parishes and 90 Catholic schools located in Washington, D.C., and the five Maryland counties of Calvert, Charles, Montgomery, Prince Georges and St. Marys. Why would he do that? Did Trump's popularity with Catholic voters have something to do with it? Was Trump's decision to have New York's Cardinal Dolan lead the prayer at his inauguration on Jan. 20 his trigger? I don't know. But according to The Pillar, a website of Catholic affairs news, it happened like this: McElroys appointment follows a lengthy and contentious process to find a successor for the Washington archdiocese, which involved a protracted standoff between some American cardinals and the apostolic nunciature. The Pillar has previously reported that following a meeting in October in which McElroy joined Cardinals Blase Cupich of Chicago and Joseph Tobin of Newark to meet with Pope Francis during the synod on synodality in October, Francis was said to have decided against appointing McElroy. Instead, Francis tasked former Washington archbishop Cardinal Donald Wuerl to identify a suitable candidate. Wuerl, sources close to the process have confirmed to The Pillar, suggested Bishop Shawn McKnight of Jefferson City, with Cardinal Gregory also signing off on the recommendation. However, in the weeks following the presidential election result, which saw Donald Trump reelected to the White House, Francis agreed to revisit McElroys candidacy. So it definitely came about because of President Trump's victory, as the passage reads, a long period of battling-bishop contention, until reality set in that Trump was taking the White House. This, despite Pope Francis advising Catholics to vote their consciences (which they did), since he, supposedly, didn't take political sides. A tweet from the pope's official biographer, who is close to him, suggests that, actually, the pope did take sides: Wonderful news. Cardinal McElroy has a brilliant mind, a pastors heart, and a prophetic gut. A perfect appointment in the Trump era: the Gospel sine glossa to counteract the perversion of Christian nationalism. https://t.co/PSuJTfwKhq Austen Ivereigh (@austeni) January 6, 2025 Did the pope put a notable pro-lifer in that slot so close to the White House, the press corps, the bully pulpit to the country, when Joe Biden took office, and got busy jailing pro-lifers, letting churches burn, siccing the FBI on Latin Mass enthusiasts, prosecuting the Little Sisters of the Poor for not wanting to buy abortion insurance, bankrolling and promoting abortion around the world, shoveling untold cash to Planned Parenthood, and trying to halt conscience exceptions for medical personnel who did not want to perform the grisly act of abortion; helping to birth some babies and save the lives of some, while ripping others out of wombs in shreds or screaming, cutting them up and selling them for spare parts, as all in a day's work? Of course he didn't. The last prelate for the diocese was a leftist, too. He just wasn't as vocal. The progressivism of San Francisco's Cardinal McElroy is pretty significant. He doesn't like home schoolers, for one, particularly not Catholic ones. The Pillar notes: He's big on LGBTQ+ rights, too, which is bound to annoy Catholics when he starts laying out rainbow flags on the altars for Mass, or if he starts speaking out in favor of intact males in women's locker rooms or transgender athletes walking off with all the medals in women's sports. Many Catholics argue that he was complicit in hiding child abusers from the long arm of the law, but the evidence is not entirely clear. But Israel is the bad guy in his book: According to OSV News, published in the leftist Jesuit-run magazine America: Two U.S. prelates are urging an immediate and total ceasefire in the war that has convulsed the Gaza Strip for more than 100 days, while condemning Hamas and urging the release of Israeli hostages taken by the Palestinian militants. In a Jan. 17 joint statement, Cardinal Robert W. McElroy of San Diego and Archbishop John C. Wester of Santa Fe, New Mexico, said the tens of thousands of deaths resulting from the Israel-Hamas war and the risk of wider escalation calls us as Americans to press for a national policy which is focused unswervingly on ending the conflict. He's also in favor of giving nominally Catholic abortion promoters Joe Biden and Nancy Pelosi Holy Communion at Mass, so they can use it to scarf up Catholic voters for their pro-abortion candidacies at election time, seemingly as good upstanding Catholics to voters, what with the bishops giving them Communion and all, during elections. The Pillar reported the logic behind it this way: But while McElroys remarks may be viewed as a call for the Church to open communion to all regardless of their sinful status, the cardinal does not state that explicitly. He instead speaks of comprehensive inclusion in Eucharistic reception language easily open to the concept of full and open eucharistic reception for all. In that regard Cardinal McElroy is scoping out new theological territory, since few mainstream Catholic theologians have made a such a call explicitly, even if it has now become more commonplace among Protestant thinkers. Of course, McElroy isnt the only recent person of note in the Church to allude to such a theology as a general principle. But he might be among the most direct. He was big on COVID lockdowns, shutting down churches and demanding all parishioners, regardless of their tolerance for vaccines, or their opposition to using a vaccine derived from the cells of aborted babies, to be vaccinated for COVID before coming to Mass. McElroy's also in favor of open borders, a Trump platform cornerstone, which provides billions in taxpayer cash to illegal immigration advocates such as Catholic Charities. He was almost certainly selected for this slot to browbeat Trump from the pulpit when the mass deportations of illegal border crossers start, if not excommunicate J.D. Vance and much of the Supreme Court. Standards are different for Republicans who want rule of law, and Democrats who promote abortion. The New York Times certainly thinks that's what this is about: In December, as Mr. Trump promised to crack down on immigration once again, Cardinal McElroy and 11 other bishops from California issued a statement in support of our migrant brothers and sisters. We want to assure you that we, and our mother, the Church, stand with you in these days of anxiety, they wrote, promising to advocate for your dignity and family unity. Which is kind of weird. Millions of families live in dignity in Honduras, Brazil, and other places that ship illegal migrants. He seems to be saying that there's no such thing as human dignity in any life outside the U.S. by this statement. I know he's been on this for awhile, though. A few years ago, I recall McElroy's picture on the front page of the local Catholic newspaper Southern Cross, holding up a sign saying "justice for immigrants" as if Americans were the bad guy here for wanting immigrants to enter the U.S. through legal means, same way we do when we visit other countries. So he will be there to point the bony finger at Trump over illegal immigration, even as Catholic Charities rakes in millions from the feds to enable illegal immigrants, many of whom go on to rape and murder Americans. No mea culpas there. What a picture that will be. To be fair, he's not an unalloyed villain. He's actually a pretty nice man and seems to take the pope's command to pastorality seriously. He's refrained from political statements most of the time, though he has issued a few doozies. Perhaps he will be a good cardinal and show respect for the will of the voters who think differently. But the odds seem pretty high that he will serve as the pope's catspaw, making anti-Trump statements that the pope, as head of state, won't want to make. It looks like the pope is playing the same game Joe Biden is, trying to hamstring the administration, which was supported by a huge majority of Catholic voters. Why he's doing that here, and not in, say, Argentina, where the leader the Catholics elected there is even stronger an antisocialist than Trump. is unknown, except to say that a lot more is at stake for the pope in the states. All the same, it's disgusting. The pope should not be stooping to Joe Biden's tactics in attempting to allow the current wokester political structure to remain there forever. Joe Biden is not a model for anyone. Image: U.S. Institute of Peace, via Wikimedia Commons // CC BY-SA 2.0 Deed Its a new year and time for some new headphones from audio juggernaut JBL. While its not announcing these at CES, they still deserve a mention. The company announced a slew of new over-the-ear headphones, and these are guaranteed to give you some great audio whether youre on a budget or looking to splurge. JBL introduced the new JBL Tour ONE M3 and the JBL Junior series. Dont forget that CES is kicking off soon. The top tech brands are showing off their latest and greatest tech. So, be sure to stay tuned to Android Headlines for coverage of what companies are releasing. JBL Tour ONE M3 Many of us know JBL as a company that specializes in affordable headphones. While it has a strong hold on budget cans, the company also makes some premium headphones for those who want top-notch audio. Today, the company just announced the new JBL Tour ONE M3. Coming in at $399.99, these headphones are meant to compete with more premium headphones from the likes of Sony. As such, they need to have some top-of-the-line hardware to push a high-quality sound. The JBL Tour ONE M3 use a set of 40mm Mica Dome drivers. They deliver a powerful and rich sound with deep bass. Along with the bass, they also deliver crisp mids and higher tones. Youre not only getting an encompassing sound, but youre also getting a well-balanced sound. You know that the company calibrated these drivers to give you audio thats leaps and bounds better than its more affordable headphones. Adding to the audio quality is the JBL 360 spatial audio. Using this technology, headphones will adjust the audio as you turn your head. So, it will feel just like youre in the middle of the concert hall or the studio. All of these features are amazing, but there are more features to be excited about. The JBL Tour ONE M3 support Hi-res Bluetooth, amazing ANC, Auracast, lossless audio over USB-C, and up to 70 hours of playback on a single charge. We cant forget about the JBL Headphones app. Using the app, you can adjust the built-in EQ, cycle through the sound modes, and more. Youll be able to pick these headphones up on April 13th. JBL Junior Series Maybe youre looking for a good pair of headphones for your little music lover. Well, JBL has a pair of headphones specifically designed for kids. The JBL Junior Series consists of the JBL Junior 470NC, Junior 320BT, and Junior 320. These headphones are pretty similar in their audio quality. Obviously, theyre not meant for audiophile listening. You can expect modest audio quality, but were sure that your 9-year-old wont mind. The main thing is that they have a pair of headphones to funnel whatever songs being popularized on TikTok. There are a few things that make these cans perfect for your adolescent audio lover. Firstly, these headphones come in a couple of fun colors. These are bold and kid-friendly colors like pink, baby blue, purple, and more. The choice of colors will vary depending on which model you pick up. Next, and most importantly, these headphones allow parents to have control over their kids listening activity. Using the JBL Headphone app, parents can set how long their kids can listen to music with their headphones. Parents can also record their own voice messages to play when its time for their kids to stop listening. Not only that, but parents can also set the max volume level to keep their kids from listening to music thats too loud. There are some key differences between these headphone models. The Junior 470NC are the most premium, as they come with Active Noise Cancelation. This uses the microphones on the outside of the headphones to cancel out the ambient noise. So, your child will be able to isolate themself with their music. The Junior 320BT lack the noise cancelation, so youll likely get these headphones if you want to spend a bit less money. The BT in the name stands for Bluetooth, but if youre looking for a wired option, then youll want to look into picking up a pair of the Junior 320. These come with a wire, so kids wont have to worry about battery life. Along with that, theres a little controller on the wire that allows your child to control their media. The only thing to note is that these arent compatible with the JBL Headphones app, so youll be missing out on the parental controls. Since these are targeted at kids, you know that the prices for these headphones will be pretty close to the earth. The Junior 470NC cost $79.99. If you want to save a bit of money, youll be able to pick up the Junior 320BT for only $49.99. Lastly, youll pick up the Junior 320 for only $29.99. These headphones will all hit the market in March of this year. JBL Tune 520C If you dont want to deal with wireless headphones, then you should look into getting the Tune 520C. You can listen to high-res audio through the wired connection. If youre afraid that you wont be able to listen to music if your phone doesnt have a headphone jack, dont worry. These are USB-C headphones. So, youll be able to plug them into your devices charging port. Today is the day that CES officially kicks off! Companies from around the world are attending Las Vegas even to show off their latest and greatest innovations. Among the companies, the biggest brands attending are Samsung, LG, TCL, Sony, and Hisense. If youre curious about how to watch their live streams, then youve come to the right place. Heres how to watch the biggest announcements of CES 2025. Before diving into the companies announcements, we have a ton of CES content for you to sink your teeth into. Were at the beginning of the event, so you can expect more content to come out as the event goes on. Keep an eye on our CES page for the hottest announcements and revelations during the event. Samsung announcements Of course, Samsung has some major announcements going on this year. While most of the event is still unraveling for the Korean tech giant, weve already seen some really neat tech. For example, Samsung showed off some neat rollable screens. These screens exist in prototype devices that can extend horizontally and vertically. Along with that, the company showed off the Odyssey G7 gaming monitor. Its noticeably larger than its predecessor. Also, it has a 5K (5120 x 2160) resolution panel. We also cant forget about the 500Hz display panels that the company showed off for the display market. The companys conference is set to start at 5PM EST/2PM PST. Watch it below. LG announcements Moving on to the next major Korean brand, LG has made some exciting announcements as well. The company unveiled a concept car that will actually house different LG smart home devices. These include smart appliances, TVs, and more. Its like a high-tech RV. Next, LGs 2025 OLED TVs also got a glow-up at the event. These are powered by the companys alpha 11 AI processor Gen 2. These displays are much brighter than the companys previous TVs and come with a 4K resolution and 165Hz refresh rate. Along with that, LG showed off its compact and high-quality soundbar. The LG S20A soundbar is a quality and powerful soundbar that will take your movie-watching experience to the next level. The company will hold its press conference at 11AM EST/8AM PST You can watch the companys live stream below. Sony Moving onto Sony, this company is set to announce some major tech. Unlike the aforementioned companies, Sony didnt announce anything beforehand. Hopefully, well see some new information on the companys cameras or its Xperia phones. In any case, the company will hold its press conference at 8PM EST/5PM PST. The link is below. TCL So far, TCL has only shown off one piece of tech at CES. However, its going to show off more during its press conference happening at 2PM EST/11AM PST. TCL took the wraps off of the Smart Lock D1 Pro. This is a lock for your door that can actually scan the veins in your palm as a method of authentication. The lock if battery-powered and it comes with a number pad and companion app. Watch the live stream below. Hisense Last but not least, we have Hisense. So far, this company will hold its press conference at 12PM EST/9AM EST. It has shown us its L9 Series of laser TVs. These are high-quality devices that can project a screen between 100 inches and 150 inches, which is perfect for a cinematic experience. With a maximum of 5,000 lumens and a 5,000:1 contrast ratio, the flagship Hisense L9Q will give you an incredible watching experience. Watch the live stream below: Information related to a Chinese groups recent hacking campaign on US telecommunications continues to emerge. Recently, US officials added a 9th company to the list of those compromised by the attack. However, a new report from The Wall Street Journal claims that the Salt Typhoon hack compromised even more firms than we knew before. Salt Typhoon hack of US telecoms reportedly affected more firms than previously known According to previous reports, Verizon, AT&T, and Lumen were among the carriers most affected by the incident. T-Mobile reportedly suffered an attempted attack, but they managed to stop it before it was successful. Now, The Wall Street Journal claims that network equipment from Charter Communications, Consolidated Communications and Windstream was also breached. Unpatched network devices from Fortinet were exploited during the attacks. large network routers from Cisco also were reportedly compromised. Recently, Verizon and AT&T publicly addressed the issue, saying that thanks to their work with authorities, suspicious activity on their networks had stopped. Lumen said the same, adding that the hackers were unable to access any of its customers data. Chinas technological capabilities for remote attacks continue to grow Chinas apparently growing technological capabilities for such attacks are a major concern for the United States. Beijing officials have flatly denied having any links to the attackers. However, the FBI claims that the Salt Typhoon group managed to hack so many American firms thanks to Chinese support. Jake Sullivan, a national security adviser, reportedly warned in 2023 about Chinas advances in the segment. Sullivan had a secret meeting with telecoms and tech executives at the White House. During the meeting, he said that China had gained the ability to even shut down dozens of U.S. ports, power grids and other infrastructure targets at will, Reuters says. The FBI has not yet been able to guarantee when US telecommunications will be completely secure. In December last year, a US official recommended that everyone should use encrypted calls and messages whenever possible. The OPPO Find X8 Mini specs have just surfaced, and based on what were seeing here, the phone could end up being quite powerful. This information comes from Digital Chat Station, one of the most prominent tipsters from China. Rumored OPPO Find X8 Mini specs do look quite promising The tipster claims that the phone will be fueled by the MediaTek Dimensity 9400 chip, the same processor that fuels the OPPO Find X8 and Find X8 Pro. That is one of the most powerful chips out there at the moment, and it surely proved its worth. On top of that, a 6.31-inch OLED display will be used by the company. That will ensure that the phone has a much smaller footprint than its siblings. We presume that the bezels will be quite thin. The tipster also mentioned a triple camera setup on the back, with a 50-megapixel main camera which will use one of Sonys IMX9 series camera sensors. Needless to say, those are great news. The phone will also include a high-quality periscope telephoto camera A 50-megapixel high-quality periscope telephoto camera will also be a part of the package. It would be great to see the same camera from the OPPO Find X8 Pro here, thats for sure. The tipster also mentioned that the phone will combine metal and glass for its build. It will also have an optical in-display fingerprint scanner. It wont be an ultrasonic one, but based on the performance of optical fingerprint scanners OPPO used in the past, that wont be a problem. On top of all that, the OPPO Find X8 Mini will support wireless charging. Were still not sure how fast will it be, but its siblings do support 50W charging. So the same could be offered here. The OPPO Find X8 Mini could launch alongside the OPPO Find X8 Ultra. So, its expected to arrive in Q1 2025. That phone will be a direct competitor to the Vivo X200 Pro mini, Xiaomi 15, Google Pixel 9 Pro, and other compact, yet high-end devices. Samsung Display has just announced two new panels for the monitor market that feature lightning-fast refresh rates, with one panel coming in at a maximum of 500Hz. Now, from a monitor standpoint, this is impressive, but Samsung would not be the first to market with a 500Hz monitor. Its also worth noting that Samsung Displays announcement today as part of CES 2025 is not just for its own monitors. These are panels being marketed to other monitor brands as well. Samsung Display unveiled two new, game-changing QD-OLED panels today at the CES 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada, that are expected to reinforce the companys plans to dominate the premium, self-luminous monitor market, Samsung Display said in a press release. This doesnt mean it wont use either of these panels in its own monitors, of course. In fact, its already announced two monitors with these panels. Other brands like ASUS and MSI have announced some as well. What makes these stand out also isnt just the refresh rate, but the combination of the refresh rate and the resolution the panels offer. Samsung Display announces a 27-inch 500Hz QHD QD-OLED panel Since this isnt a complete monitor, theres nothing really here for consumers to buy. There will be, though, and thats the exciting part. The first of Samsungs announcements includes a 27-inch QHD QD-OLED panel with a 500Hz refresh rate. Some might say that at a certain point, there are diminishing returns on refresh rates And that a refresh rate as high as 500Hz isnt really all that necessary. But, there is a market for monitors with these kinds of panels. Its also worth noting that these panels are likely to be marketed only (or mostly) at brands that are making gaming monitors. Since thats the only market with consumers who generally care about a refresh rate that fast. In addition to this panel, Samsung Display is also announcing the worlds first 27-inch UHD QD-OLED panel with a 240Hz refresh rate. Samsung Display says it plans to start mass production of both of these panels in the first half of this year. That means we could see more brands announce monitors using these panels within the same time frame. Expect monitors with these panels to be expensive Its the same thing every time when new monitors or TVs come out with new panel technology. They always end up with a high price tag at first. That is unlikely to change with monitors using these newly announced panels. Even at their size, they still come with high resolution and extremely fast refresh rates. None of the brands that have announced monitors with these panels so far have announced pricing. However, consumers should expect them to cost quite a bit. In addition to these new panels, Samsung Display has also announced other offerings. Specifically, slideable displays that itll be showcasing at CES 2025. Qualcomm is one of many companies making announcements as part of CES 2025 in Las Vegas. The company has just announced that the Snapdragon X series will continue to redefine the PC category with a new platform, in other words, the companys chips are coming to $600-range Copilot+ PCs. Snapdragon X series chips are coming to $600 Copilot+ PCs from various OEMs This is the fourth platform to join the Snapdragon X Series compute portfolio. Qualcomm is aiming to take the lead to Copilot+ PCs in the $600 range, in other words, mini desktop form factors are Qualcomms goal here. Qualcomm says that this new platform delivers up to 163% faster performance at ISO-power than Qualcomms competitors who also require 168% more power at ISO-performance. The company made sure to emphasize that the Snapdragon X processor balances performance and built-in intelligence with a 45 TOPS NPU that runs Copilot+ PC experiences. Qualcomm says that the Snapdragon X is an ideal solution for students, freelance workers, and budget-conscious consumers who need a reliable and powerful laptop that can keep up with their busy lives. The very first devices will become available soon, in early 2025 As part of its announcement, Qualcomm also said that the devices in question will become available in early 2025 from Dell, Lenovo, and other companies. Theyre expected to cost around $600, as already mentioned. Qualcomms Snapdragon X chips are making strides thanks to their power efficiency despite the considerable performance that theyre able to output. Snapdragon X series laptops are already out in the market, and it will be interesting to see how much interest will these $600 PCs manage to attract. Were hoping to see these devices in other markets too, outside of the US. Qualcomm did not share any information regarding that thus far, however. Thomas Tuchel saw his first Premier League action as England head coach on the weekend. Tuchel was at the Tottenham-Newcastle and Brighton-Arsenal games on Saturday before taking in the Liverpool-Manchester United clash at Anfield on Sunday. Here, the PA news agency examines how five players made a favourable first impression on Tuchel. Dominic Solanke Tottenham striker Solanke was straight out of the blocks against Newcastle to show his scoring touch. Solanke headed Spurs into a fourth-minute lead, his seventh Premier League goal of the season and 11th in all competitions. The 27-year-old managed four goal attempts during the 90 minutes, two of them on target. Anthony Gordon Newcastle winger Gordon also made a fast start at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium by sweeping home his fifth Premier League goal of the season after six minutes. Gordons pace and movement was a constant problem for the Spurs defence, and he might have been awarded a second-half penalty after being caught in the face by Dejan Kulusevski. The 23-year-old Gordon completed 20 of 24 passes during his 78 minutes on the pitch, with two of his five shots on target. Ethan Nwaneri Ethan Nwaneri celebrates scoring for Arsenal at Brighton (Jonathan Brady/PA) Arsenal teenager Nwaneri might not have been on Tuchels radar before his trip to Brighton. But the 17-year-old forward underlined his huge promise with a vibrant first-half performance that brought his second Premier League goal. Nwaneri completed 100 per cent of his passes before being forced off at half-time due to muscular issues. Harry Maguire Harry Maguire produced a dominant display for Manchester United against Liverpool (Bradley Collyer/PA) The Anfield headlines around Maguire centred on the golden chance he missed with the last kick of the match to hand Manchester United a shock victory at Liverpool. But that should not detract from Maguires all-round performance with the centre-back displaying the leadership skills United have been badly lacking this season. Maguire won all his aerial duels as well as making an impressive four interceptions and seven clearances. Kobbie Mainoo Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo impressed at Anfield on Sunday (Peter Byrne/PA) The 19-year-old midfielder made an impact for England at Euro 2024 but has been troubled by injury this season. There were good signs at Anfield, however, as United with Mainoo to the fore managed to check Liverpools much-vaunted midfield unit. Mainoos ability to break up play with four tackles and one interception allowed United to get a foothold in proceedings and spring dangerous counter-attacks. Wicked star Ariana Grande said she was channelling follow the yellow brick road with her 1966 archival Givenchy gown as she led a yellow gold trend at the Golden Globes. The pop heavyweight and actress exuded old Hollywood glamour with satin white opera gloves on the red carpet where she was celebrating being a first-time nominee for her role as Glinda in the Wizard Of Oz prequel. Grande, wearing a Audrey Hepburn era-yellow dress, told Variety that she was excited to find the number in her characters favourite colour as she led Hollywood stars descending on the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles. Cate Blanchett arrives at the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) Meanwhile, also wearing the colour of the night was Cate Blanchett, nominated for best performance by a female actress in a limited series or TV movie for Disclaimer, in a gold sparkling number as metallic had a moment on the red carpet. Mindy Kaling arrives at the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) The Office star Mindy Kaling also opted for a gold Ashi Studio off-the-shoulder floor-length gown. Nikki Glaser arrives at the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) Nikki Glaser, the first woman to solo host the Golden Globes, was also sporting a gold plunging satin bustier top and a draped skirt as she is also nominated for best performance in stand-up comedy on TV for her special Someday Youll Die. In a pre-recorded interview, she said she has six to seven outfit changes during the show. Ali Wong arrives at the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) Another trend of the evening was the colour red, with Ali Wong sporting a tulle bustier Balenciaga gown with black opera gloves she is nominated in the same category for her Single Lady Netflix special. Dakota Fanning arrives at the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) Meanwhile, Dakota Fanning, nominated for best female supporting actor for her role in Netflixs Ripley, wore a bold red gown with a thigh-high split. Andrew Scott on the red carpet (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) Also nominated for his role in Ripley was Irish star Andrew Scott, sporting a monochromatic style in a bold light blue suit on the carpet. The awards are taking place at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. Nigel Farage has said he is prepared to forego donations in order to defend Reform UKs principles after Elon Musk turned against him but still regards the multibillionaire as a hero. Mr Farage said he had been surprised when the tech entrepreneur, who reports suggested had been in talks to give a large sum to the party, claimed on Sunday he doesnt have what it takes to serve as its leader. Mr Musk did not explain the reasoning behind his intervention, but the Clacton MP suggested it was because of his refusal to endorse far-right figurehead Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. On Monday, Mr Farage said the golden rule that former BNP activists will not be welcomed as members will not be changed, and that if Mr Musk knew the full story of Tommy Robinson, he might have a slightly different view. The Reform Party needs a new leader. Farage doesnt have what it takes. Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 5, 2025 Im not giving up principles. I do not allow former BNP activists into this party. Thats a golden rule, he said. We want no links with extremism of any kind at all. Its not going to happen under my leadership. Im sorry, but Mr Robinson is not suitable for our party. Hes not somebody that were going to endorse. And if defending that principle means that I have to forego donations or whatever else it may be, well Im sorry but for me, principle comes first. He said Robinson, who has been jailed for contempt of court, puts himself up for martyrdom and on the back of it, theres a list as long as your arm of convictions. Frankly, we have to have the rule of law, Mr Farage said. He is not a hero figure to me. He added: All over America there are prominent Republicans who think Tommy Robinson is a hero because theyve heard Tommy Robinsons side of the story. There is a lot, lot more to it that many in America dont understand. But he said of course he still regarded Mr Musk as a hero for buying Twitter and opening up social media as a place where there is now much more free speech than there was when he bought it. Whatever he might have said about me in the last 24 hours doesnt change my view, Mr Farage said. Asked if he was confident about the partys prospects without a donation from Mr Musk, he said: We will raise the money we need. In a slew of posts on social media platform X, which he owns, Mr Musk had urged Mr Farage to stand aside, after the MP disagreed with his endorsement of Robinson. The Reform UK leader reacted by saying his view on Robinson remained the same, with Mr Musk then writing in a post published minutes after Mr Farages response saying: Free Tommy Robinson now. Elsewhere in the barrage, the Tesla boss accused the Prime Minister of failing to tackle grooming gangs while he was director of public prosecutions, and called safeguarding minister Jess Phillips a witch and a rape genocide apologist. Asked about the comments on Monday, Sir Keir Starmer condemned the poison of the far right that has resulted in Ms Phillips and others receiving threats and being put at risk. He criticised the Conservative Party for failing to call out vitriolic remarks about the minister, and defended his own record on handling child sexual exploitation, saying he had dealt with the problem head on as DPP. Asked about Mr Musks posts to his 210 million followers, after a speech at Epsom Hospital in Surrey, the Prime Minister said: Those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible are not interested in victims, they are interested in themselves. American thriller writer Harlan Coben says he has learned that tragedy is a very cruel but effective teacher, after his parents deaths. The bestselling author is known for his Myron Bolitar thriller series and novels-turned-Netflix shows such as Fool Me Once and recent release Missing You. The author recalled how he was in his 20s when his father died of a heart attack at the age of 59 in 1988. He told the Big Issue this was the most traumatic loss, adding: Maybe because it was the first one. It came out of nowhere. Dame Joanna Lumley, writer Harlan Coben, Michelle Keegan and Richard Armitage, who were in Fool Me Once (Ian West/PA) I had quite a bit of tragedy in my 20s, Coben said. Things moved along fairly smoothly until then, I led a fairly normal American suburban life, but I did something like seven eulogies that decade. My dad died, my mum died, and a lot of people in my life died. So that probably also shaped me. Tragedy is a very cruel but effective teacher. I think that helped push me and made my writing better. He also said: Ive come to the conclusion with grief that its like you lose a limb, right? You lost your arm. You can learn to go on without that arm, youre going to learn to do things with the other arm and still have a happy, productive life. But that arms not growing back. Coben has more than 80 million books in print worldwide, including Win, The Boy From The Woods, Run Away, and Tell No One, and has a deal with Netflix to be a producer on the series the streaming giant makes. His other TV projects include Stay Close, about a husband who goes missing, with James Nesbitt and Cush Jumbo; blackmail story The Stranger, with Richard Armitage and Siobhan Finneran; and Safe, starring Michael C Hall and Amanda Abbington, about a surgeon whose daughter goes missing all on Netflix. Siobhan Finneran, Dervla Kirwan, Harlan Coben, Hannah John-Kamen and Jennifer Saunders, at the press screening for The Stranger (PA) Coben said he continues to get excited about my books being adapted for television as he enjoys seeing people bringing his creations to life, and actors taking the characters in new directions. He added: When Netflix pushes a button, it will be in 230 million households in 190 countries. This is not my first time, but that still jazzes me. I hope it always does. The recently released Missing You stars Armitage and Sir Lenny Henry, and focuses on a detective whose fiance resurfaces under strange circumstances. In Fool Me Once, Michelle Keegan played a military combat pilot suffering from PTSD when her husband (Armitage), from a wealthy family, is murdered. It was one of the most-watched programmes on the streaming giant last year. Cobens The Five, about friends who reunite after finding out that one of their group, who went missing when they were children, could be alive, starring Tom Cullen, was released on Sky1 in 2016. Read the full interview with Coben in this weeks Big Issue, out now. Jacob Fearnleys exceptional form has earned him a maiden call-up to Great Britains Davis Cup squad for their upcoming tie with Japan. Fearnley was outside the top 500 before he won his first ATP Challenger event in Nottingham in June and followed it up with a string of other titles in 2024 alongside an impressive display against Novak Djokovic in a second round exit at Wimbledon. Edinburgh-born Fearnley has risen to 86 in the world as a result of a fine six months and Great Britain Davis Cup captain Leon Smith has selected him in a four-man squad for a first round qualifier with Japan later this month. The Lexus GB Davis Cup Team heading to Japan! Representing Great Britain as we start our 2025 campaign: @cam_norrie @jakefearnley01 Billy Harris @nealskupski pic.twitter.com/dt4SCvC2nN LTA (@the_LTA) January 6, 2025 British number two Cameron Norrie, world number 126 Billy Harris and doubles grand-slam champion Neal Skupski complete the line-up for this tie, which will be played at Bourbon Beans Dome in Miki across the weekend of January 31-February 1. Jack Draper had already confirmed last month he would not feature in this tie after discussions with Smith following a recent hip issue and Fearnley has profited ahead of being involved in next weeks Australian Open for the first time. The call-up of Fearnley could also signal the end of Dan Evans Davis Cup career after the 34-year-old acknowledged following Great Britains defeat to Canada in September that it could be time for him to leave the party. Evans has represented Great Britain in 28 Davis Cup ties but dropped to 160 in the world amid poor form and lost in Australian Open qualifying on Monday. The US authorities have implemented increased security measures including more officers and security contractors at the Golden Globes, following the vehicle attack in New Orleans and Las Vegas Cybertruck explosion on New Years Day. A heavy police presence surrounded the Beverly Hilton hotel in Los Angeles, with a wider and more enforced perimeter around the hotel blocked and barricades placed as Hollywood stars began to descend for the major awards ceremony on Sunday. It comes after a pick-up truck ploughed through crowds of new year revellers in New Orleans, killing 14 people including Briton Ed Pettifer, who was the stepson of the Prince of Wales former nanny. Edward Pettifer was named by Metropolitan Police as one of the victims of the New Years Day attack in New Orleans (Metropolitan Police/PA) The FBI later confirmed an Islamic State flag was found inside the vehicle and explosive devices were discovered nearby. Meanwhile, a US special forces soldier died in a Tesla Cybertruck that exploded outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on New Years Day. In a statement given to the PA news agency, Beverly Hills public information manager Lauren Santillana said: We understand that current national events are very concerning and we are committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for everyone. The Beverly Hills Police Department (BHPD) will continue our increased security measures, including staffing of officers, professional staff, and security contractors during this weekends Golden Globes. Additionally, BHPD is in constant communication with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners for updated information. We ask everyone to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Four Just Stop Oil protesters who blocked a main road in north-west London have been spared jail. Ishani Milward-Bose, Daniel Wills, Anthony Bradley and Alice Brown blocked the A41 Hendon Way near the Brent Cross Flyover when they took part in a slow march of around 100 people on November 13 2023. They wore orange hi-vis jackets and carried Just Stop Oil banners as they marched along the A41, a key commuter route, for around three hours, during the morning rush hour. Alice Brown arriving at Westminster Magistrates Court (Stefan Rousseau/PA) Bradley, 65, Brown, 63, Milward-Bose, 23, and Wills, 22, had all previously pleaded guilty to one count of interfering with the use of a key national infrastructure, contrary to the Public Order Act. Westminster Magistrates Court heard on Monday that thousands of people would have been impacted by the road, a main arterial route into London, being blocked from 8.30am to 11.20am on a Monday. Defending, Jessica Atkinson said: The defendants are no longer involved in Just Stop Oil, have accepted early responsibility for their action and indicated they do not intend to do this again. These are four productive members of society. These defendants are otherwise law-abiding citizens with very promising futures. Chief magistrate Paul Goldspring described the protest as a relatively sophisticated, pre-planned major disruption. Anthony Bradley leaving Westminster Magistrates Court (Stefan Rousseau/PA) It must be viewed as causing significant harm and inconvenience, Judge Goldspring said. Milward-Bose, an LSE graduate, Wills, an LSE student, Bradley, a retired travel agent, and Brown, a self-employed architect, confirmed their names and addresses. Sentencing them, Judge Goldspring said: You are all genuinely remorseful, I am sure of that. I am clear there is no public interest in sending you to prison today, or suspending such a sentence. The four defendants nodded as they were each sentenced to a 12-month community order to undertake 120 hours of paid work. They were also ordered to pay costs of 85 each plus surcharge. Russian-born businessman Lord Evgeny Lebedev is reportedly in talks to sell the licence for his London TV station to another network. Lord Lebedevs company London Live was close to selling the London licence to Local TV Ltd, Sky News reported. Local TV is a broadcasting company owned by media entrepreneur David Montgomery. Mr Montgomery is a former executive of the Mirror Group, which operates the Daily Mirror. Local TV already runs eight regional channels, including those covering Birmingham, Leeds and Cardiff. It was reported in December that Lord Lebedev was exploring the sale of the London Live station (Ian West/PA) It says it broadcasts to more than five million homes, or about 18% of all UK television households. Lord Lebedev also owns the Standard newspaper, the weekly London title formerly called the Evening Standard. It was reported in December that he was exploring the sale of the London Live station, which was launched in 2014. The Sunday Times newspaper reported that the network had lost more than 20 million since it was set up. London Live was launched as part of an initiative aimed at promoting local television, launched by then-culture secretary Jeremy Hunt. Companies House accounts for London Lives company, ESTV, show losses of 33 million between 2013 and 2019. It then started turning a profit, but the network has been incurring losses in recent years, according to reports. London Live and Local TV have been approached for comment. Major incidents have been declared in Lincolnshire and Leicestershire after rain brought severe flooding in the Midlands on Monday. Firefighters in Leicestershire rescued 59 people on Monday, while authorities in Lincolnshire warned conditions could deteriorate overnight as water iced over. In North Yorkshire, police said the body of a man had been recovered on Monday from an area of flooding in Beal, near Eggborough and Knottingley. Officers believe he entered the water on Saturday or Sunday. Police said the man has been formally identified, but efforts to trace his next of kin were ongoing, adding that there are currently no suspicious circumstances surrounding the discovery. The incidents come as wintry conditions continued to disrupt travel and close schools, with yellow warnings for snow and ice in force across large parts of the UK. In England, the Environment Agency had 193 flood warnings in place across England at 5.45pm, meaning flooding is expected, and another 306 flood alerts indicating flooding was possible. At a Lincolnshire primary school, parents were told to stay away until the end of the day, with fire brigade vehicles ready to carry children through the flood waters. In a message to parents posted on social media, Edenham Church of England School said: We would like to assure parents that the school and ground have not been affected and all children are safe. Judi Beresford, Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Services assistant chief fire and rescue officer said: Flooding poses a serious risk to lives and property, and we urge everyone to take these warnings seriously. In a separate statement, the Lincolnshire Resilience Forum said: We have declared a major incident in Lincolnshire in response to the adverse weather over the past few days. We expect to see conditions worsen overnight as surface water ices over and conditions on both treated and untreated roads will be very icy and pose a risk. The Environment Agency is concerned about flooding in parts of the Midlands, including Worcestershire where the River Avon has burst its banks (David Davies/PA) The Prime Minister also urged the public to follow advice from the emergency services, thanking them for their work and saying his thoughts are with all those affected. In the Commons, environment minister Emma Hardy told MPs flooding was a personal priority for her, adding that the Environment Agency was particularly concerned about Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, Warwickshire and Nottinghamshire. Warning of further localised flooding to come over the next 24 to 36 hours, she pledged to overhaul the Governments approach to funding flood defences to ensure the challenges facing businesses and rural and coastal communities are taken into account when delivering flood protection. Further north, Northern Powergrid said more than 27,000 homes across Yorkshire and the North of England had lost power during the cold snap, with 100 customers still without power by Monday lunchtime. Elsewhere, National Resources Wales had 16 flood alerts and one flood warning in place, while the Met Office warned that snow and ice was set to cause more disruption in large parts of Scotland. (PA Graphics) Sunday night was the UKs coldest of the winter so far, with a temperature of minus 13.3C recorded in Loch Glascarnoch in the Highlands, between Ullapool and Inverness. Hundreds of schools were closed on Monday, in areas including Lancashire, Yorkshire and north-east Scotland. The Met Office advised people to be prepared for snow. A warning for snow and ice is in place across most of south-west England and Wales, and parts of north-west England and the West Midlands, between 5pm on Monday and 10am on Tuesday. The same warning is in place for western and northern parts of Scotland between 4pm on Monday and midday on Tuesday, and in Northern Ireland between 3pm on Monday and 11am on Tuesday. There is a separate warning for snow in southern England on Wednesday from 9am until 11.59pm. A man accused of having items with intent to damage property at Boris Johnsons wedding party venue has pleaded not guilty. Tim Speers, 39, is alleged to have had spray paint, super glue and red boiler suits with him at the Daylesford Estate in Gloucestershire on July 29 2022, the day before Mr Johnson and his wife Carries wedding party. The defendant, of Fairfield Road, Bude, is also charged with one count of possession of a class B drug, cannabis, and a class C drug, Xanax. Former prime minister Boris Johnson and his wife Carrie Johnson (Andrew Milligan/PA) At a short hearing at Westminster Magistrates Court on Monday, Speers pleaded not guilty to all charges. The former prime minister and Mrs Johnson got married in May 2021 but had wedding party celebrations at the Daylesford Estate on July 30 2022. Owned by billionaire businessman and chairman of JCB Anthony Bamford, the Daylesford Estate contains a Georgian manor and hundreds of acres of countryside. The Johnsons had marquees set up in the grounds with hay bales outside for seating for their wedding party. At the hearing, Speers wore a bright green and blue coat and spoke to confirm his name and address. He was bailed to appear at Southwark Crown Court on February 3. Adam Schiff is sounding the alarm on the implications of Kash Patels potential takeover of the FBI. Composite: Getty Images, EPA Adam Schiff says the deadly truck attack in New Orleans on New Years Day demonstrates why Congress should reject Donald Trumps nominee to lead the FBI, Kash Patel, after his second presidency begins. Kash Patel should not be confirmed, the California senator said on NBCs Meet the Press. I think the terrorist attack on New Orleans just underscores again the importance of having someone directing the FBI that has experience, that has judgment, that has character, [and] that will prioritize defending the country against the violence we saw in New Orleans or that from Trump supporters during the US Capitol attack on 6 January 2021 after he lost the presidency to Joe Biden weeks earlier. After expressing condolences to loved ones of the 14 victims killed in the New Orleans attack, Schiff added that Patel lacked the experience needed for the role to lead the bureau at the center of the investigation into that case. Patel instead is someone whose top priority is political vendettas, who believes in deep state conspiracy thinking, said Schiff, who previously served on a US House committee that investigated the Capitol attack. Patel, a Trump loyalist, has promoted false conspiracy theories that the 2020 election was stolen from the president-elect who defeated Kamala Harris in Novembers election. Patel has also claimed federal bureaucrats working in the deep state actually tried to overthrow Trump. In a previous interview with the former Trump White House strategist Steve Bannon, Patel said he would target judges, lawyers, and journalists for investigating Trump and claiming they had a role in robbing Trump of victory in 2020. We will go out and find the conspirators, not just in government but in the media, Patel said in the interview. Yes, were going to come after the people in the media who lied about American citizens, who helped Joe Biden rig presidential elections. Patel also claimed the FBI was involved in Trumps 2020 election loss, in a November 2022 podcast episode that he hosted that was titled: What did the FBI know before Jan. 6? He started a foundation to defend Capitol attackers and helped produce a song to raise funds and awareness for the due process that has been hijacked for so many people who were in and around the Capitol attack. Patel has also written childrens books propagating conspiracy theories that the 2020 election was stolen from Trump. John Thune, the Republican US Senate majority leader, told Meet the Press on Friday that he spoke with Patel and said he believed he would prioritize the mission of the FBI and rebuilding trust in the institution. He did not say whether he plans to vote to confirm him, though. The FBI is an agency that I think is in need of reform and needs a good makeover, so to speak, Thune said. I think that confidence and trust [in the FBI] is largely eroded, and theres an opportunity to fix that. I sat down and met with [Patel]. I think he understands thats the mission, and if hes successful through the nomination process, I hope that he will take very seriously that responsibility and focus on what he can do to make the FBI operate in a way that is protecting the American people and also being accountable. The FBI has determined that the New Orleans attacker was a former US army veteran who had recently pledged his allegiance on social media to the Islamic State (IS) terror group. He had traveled to New Orleans in October and November, using Meta smart glasses to record video of and scout out the site of the attack: Bourbon Street, where he ultimately drove a truck into a crowd before being shot dead. The attacker also built and planted homemade bombs on Bourbon Street in advance of the truck attack but did not have the proper device to detonate them, federal agents have said. At an International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) leadership training seminar being hosted by the New Orleans fire department union just blocks away from the Bourbon Street attack Monday, the agencys chaplain, John Talamo, noted that there was another meaning locally to Mondays date of 6 January the end of the Christmas season and beginning of Carnival. He said it was an especially tough time to be reminded that the world remained infected by evil. But he also shared an anecdote about how he had recently tried to pay off an unhoused persons bill at a local grocery only to learn someone had beaten him to it. Evil still persists but there are many, many good people, and we cant lose our focus on that. The leader of the Freedom party, Herbert Kickl, leaves after a meeting with Austrias president, Alexander van der Bellen, in Vienna. Photograph: Max Slovencik/EPA Austrias president has tasked the anti-migration, pro-Kremlin Freedom party (FPO) with holding talks to form a ruling coalition, potentially paving the way for the far right to lead the government for the first time since the second world war. After meeting the FPO leader, Herbert Kickl, at the Hofburg palace in Vienna, Alexander van der Bellen said the party, which narrowly won the most votes in Septembers general election, could begin negotiations with the conservative Austrian Peoples party (OVP) on forming a governing alliance. I didnt take this decision lightly, said the president, who under the constitution formally names the chancellor. I will continue to make sure that the principles and rules of our constitution are respected and upheld. Months-long negotiations by mainstream parties to form a coalition to block the far right collapsed at the weekend because of differences on how to revive the ailing Austrian economy and manage public finances. The chancellor, Karl Nehammer of the OVP, announced his intention to resign on Saturday after the talks broke down. He had repeatedly ruled out becoming junior partner to the FPO with Kickl as the head of government. Some commentators said the U-turn by Nehammers party bordered on voter fraud. The OVP said on Sunday it had nominated its general secretary, Christian Stocker, to act as interim leader. Stocker has expressed his willingness to negotiate with the FPO and has received his partys blessing to do so. The failure of the centrist parties to build an effective firewall against the FPO means Austria could soon join a growing bloc of EU countries led by the far right, including Italy, the Netherlands, Slovakia and Hungary. It also underlined the dilemma faced by democratic forces across Europe in fighting a rising tide of extremism as anti-immigration, Eurosceptic parties splinter the vote. Germanys unwieldy centre-left-led coalition under the chancellor, Olaf Scholz, collapsed in November. The anti-Islam, far-right Alternative fur Deutschland party is polling on 19%, second behind the opposition conservatives, ahead of a snap election next month. The German vice-chancellor, Robert Habeck of the Greens, said developments in Austria should serve as a warning. If the centrist parties arent capable of forming coalitions and dismiss compromises as the devils work, it only helps the radicals, he told the public broadcaster Deutschlandfunk. If the coalition negotiations in Vienna between the FPO and the OVP fail, Austria will have to hold a new election. Kickl, a firebrand whose speeches during the run-up to the September election were peppered with Nazi-era slogans, has long been denounced by centrist leaders as a conspiracy theorist and security risk. A protege of the late FPO chief Jorg Haider, Kickl cites Hungarys autocratic prime minister, Viktor Orban, as a role model and campaigned on lifting sanctions imposed against Russia after the invasion of Ukraine. Hundreds of anti-FPO protesters including Austrian Jewish leaders held a rally outside the Hofburg during the hour-long talks between Kickl and the president, chanting: Van der Bellen, throw him out! Kickl did not speak as he left the meeting, but writing on Instagram on Sunday he said he deplored the lost time since the election and the enormous loss of trust in the political class. He said the FPO would stand for honesty, clarity, predictability, stability and credibility in government. Julia Partheymuller, a political scientist at the Vienna Centre for Electoral Research, said Kickl would be a polarising figure as chancellor, noting that a previous stint as interior minister had been marked by a tense relationship with the liberal state governed by the rule of law and a confrontational approach to media. The FPOs historic 29% of the vote last September came amid a wave of voter anger over immigration and inflation, issues driving the hard rights surge against incumbents in many western democracies. Polls suggest support for the FPO has grown since the election. It marked a remarkable comeback for a party humiliated in the so-called Ibiza scandal, in which Austrias then deputy chancellor and FPO leader, Heinz-Christian Strache, was caught on video at a Spanish luxury resort discussing a potential bribe from a woman purporting to be the niece of a Russian oligarch. Partheymuller said the impact of the FPO leading the government would be felt far beyond Austria, which despite having a population of 9 million people has outsize influence in the EU owing to its strong alliances and role as a geographical crossroads. Kickl has railed against immigrants with slogans such as Fortress Austria and Austria First and stoked controversy by campaigning on a slogan to become Volkskanzler (peoples chancellor), a moniker once used for Adolf Hitler. The FPO was founded in the 1950s and first led by a former senior SS officer and Nazi lawmaker. The party has played the junior partner to the OVP in several governments and rules with the conservatives in five of Austrias nine states. Security services consider some factions of the FPO to be extremist. The OVP has adopted the FPOs hard line on immigration, which nevertheless failed to prevent a double-digit slide in its share of the vote in the September election compared with the last poll in 2019. Sophia Kelemen with her father overlooking a beach in Tenby. Photograph: Family handout/PA A six-month-old girl has died after a collision in a multistorey car park in a popular Welsh seaside town. Sophia Kelemen, from Leigh in Greater Manchester, was injured in the collision on the ground floor of the car park in Tenby, south-west Wales, on 2 January. Sophia was taken to hospital but Dyfed-Powys police said on Monday that she had died of her injuries the following day. Flaviu Naghi, aged 33, from Wigan, has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving, and driving without a licence and without insurance. Dyfed-Powys police said: He appeared at Swansea magistrates court on Saturday 4 January, where he was further remanded to appear before Swansea crown court on 7 February. He was also arrested on suspicion of drink driving and drug driving and has been released on bail for these offences. A spokesperson added: This is a tragic incident and is a live investigation. We ask that you do not speculate the circumstances. Our thoughts remain with her family at this difficult time. They are being supported by specially trained officers. Through the police, the family issued photos of Sophia including one that was taken on a spot overlooking one of Tenbys sandy beaches. Another showed her pictured with her mother, father and her older brother, who have not been named. County Durham residents attempt to dig their cars out of heavy snow - Jordan Crosby Post-Christmas bin collections have been disrupted in several parts of the country as a result of extreme weather conditions and strikes. Residents in Sheffield were told collections would be limited on Monday as Veolia, the service provider, faced difficult conditions on roads and pavements because of ice and snow. Sheffield council gave no indication on when its services would resume, with warnings that bin collectors may not be able to access homes this week as the cold weather continues. Yellow weather warnings for snow and ice are in place across the UK, with the Met Office urging people to watch out for slips and falls on icy surfaces. Calderdale council, in West Yorkshire, said its bin collections were disrupted due to the icy weather and road conditions, asking affected residents to leave their bins out because crews would aim to catch up later this week. Steven Leigh, the leader of the Conservatives on the Labour-run council, said: The terrain is difficult, and we had about six to eight inches of snow last night. All of the side roads still have a significant covering of snow, and so they have decided they wouldnt do any collections for safety reasons. Snow in Loxley, Sheffield. Residents of the city were told that collections would be limited on Monday - Dave Higgens/PA Wire The disruption comes amid the post-Christmas spike in waste production, with households producing an estimated 30 per cent more rubbish than any other time of the year. Bin collections in Wiltshire were also disrupted because of the weather over the weekend, as well as those in Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough council in Northern Ireland. Wiltshire residents expressed scepticism over the need to suspend the bin collections, with one calling the disruption a joke. Writing separately on Facebook, Richard Rouse suggested that the council was making any excuse, adding: Weather was fine today, and theres literally a dusting of snow now. Bins are usually collected in Sheffield, Wiltshire and Calderdale every two weeks. Meanwhile, residents in Birmingham faced prolonged disruption to bin collections as workers begin their first of 12 days of strikes over pay and conditions. Bin workers in Birmingham have begun their first set of strikes over pay and conditions - PetaPix/Alamy The council said it was working through the dispute resolution procedure as it tried to bring an end to the strikes, which will take place on selected days between January and April. Elsewhere, the volume of post-Christmas waste was blamed by one council for disrupting its bin collection. Residents in several parts of Carmarthenshire were left with bins lined up on the pavements, according to reports. Reports said that emails sent to residents explained: We have received feedback from the refuse supervisor that, due to the volume of recyclable waste present over the Christmas period, the refuse crew were not able to collect all of the refuse for your area. Please leave your refuse presented at the normal collection point, and the refuse crew will endeavour to return to collect as soon as possible. Freemantle on assignment in Pakistan - ANL/Shutterstock Brian Freemantle, who has died aged 88, was a globetrotting journalist turned prolific thriller writer, best-known as the creator of the sardonic, dishevelled spy Charlie Muffin. He began to publish espionage fiction in the early 1970s, at a time when seemingly every reporter who had knocked about the world a bit fancied himself as the next John le Carre. Freemantle was one of the few such journalists to enjoy enduring success as a novelist, his books eventually selling more than 10 million copies. He earned a reputation for authenticity: Miles Copeland, one of the CIAs founding agents, described his early novels as virtual case histories of the East-West war of dirty tricks. Freemantle observed that much of his raw material came from Eastern European embassies in London, where the officials who are more or less open spies and make no bones about it were often flattered enough by a novelists interest to divulge operational details. Unlike many spy novelists, he chose not to suppress his sense of humour. It achieved its finest expression in Charlie Muffin, despised by his upper-crust colleagues in British intelligence as an outdated anachronism from the postwar years when manpower desperation had forced the service to reduce its standards [and] recruit from grammar schools. Although his colleagues deprecate the Marks & Spencer shirts he didnt change daily and the flat Mancunian accent, Charlie is one of the Services most successful and hard-working operatives. The improbably beautiful women he beds are alarmed by his brown feet, stained by the dye running from his Hush Puppies in the course of long hours of legwork in the rain. The first novel in the series, Charlie Muffin (1977), was adapted by Keith Waterhouse as a film in 1979, with Jack Gold directing and David Hemmings suitably crumpled in the lead role. Although his own service would have been as happy as the Soviets to see his demise, Charlie was still in harness long after the Cold War ended. Red Star Falling (2013), the 14th and last novel in the series, saw Charlie in danger in post-Soviet Russia, discovering that the only thing to have changed about the KGB was its name. Charlie Muffin (1977) was adapted by Keith Waterhouse as a film, with Jack Gold directing and David Hemmings suitably crumpled in the lead role Brian Harry Freemantle was born in Southampton on June 10 1936, the son of Harold Freemantle, a sailor, and his wife Violet, nee Street. Leaving Bitterne Park School with two O-levels, he became a reporter on the New Milton Advertiser. In 1960 he joined the Daily Express under its foreign editor David (later Sir David) English, and became one of its most valued firemen, ready to head to the worlds trouble-spots the moment they flared up. His courage bordered on the foolhardy: when he berated a Russian border guard for refusing to let him into Czechoslovakia he earned a burst of machine-gun fire up the boot of his departing car. He was hampered by a slightly wayward sense of direction, once running for cover in Vietnam only to find he had sprinted into the front line. The assignment that almost finished him off, however, was covering the 1968 US election: he suffered a brain haemorrhage and had to be packed in ice for a week. When David English became editor of the Daily Mail in 1971, he took Freemantle with him as foreign editor. Freemantle became one of Englishs most valued lieutenants, helping to oversee the Mails transition from broadsheet to compact (Saying the word tabloid [in the office] was a bit like saying f--- in a monastery, Freemantle recalled). Tasked with creating wheezes for boosting the Mails circulation, in 1975 Freemantle was inspired by the fall of Saigon to devise Operation Mercy Airlift, a scheme to rescue Vietnamese orphans who would otherwise be left at the mercy of the Vietcong. With the aid of thousands of pounds donated by readers, he chartered a Boeing 707 filled with makeshift cots suspended from the ceiling; he and English were photographed changing babies nappies as they flew back to London with 99 children. Freemantle: one of the few journalists to enjoy enduring success as a novelist, his books eventually selling more than 10 million copies. - ANL/Shutterstock The Mail then denounced the Wilson government for leaving it to a newspaper to rescue these potential victims of the worst excesses of Communism. But the foreign correspondent Richard West labelled the whole affair the most disgusting sham I have witnessed in nine years in Vietnam, insisting that the Vietcong posed no danger to children. There were complaints that some of the children had been parted from siblings or other relatives who lived near the orphanages, and some babies were separated from their means of identification during the flight. But several of the children were severely ill and would probably have died without British medical care. In his 70s Freemantle was sought out by some of the evacuees, who expressed their profound gratitude to him for saving their lives. For years Freemantle spent his daily commute between Southampton and London scribbling unsellable fiction. At one stage his rejected manuscripts were taking up so much room that his wife insisted on a bonfire. Finally, Goodbye to an Old Friend, his 19th attempt at a novel, was published in 1973. It featured a Foreign Office man whose suspicions concerning the motives of a pair of Soviet defectors are pooh-poohed by his superiors, and established the characteristic Freemantle note of scepticism about British intelligence. It was followed by Face Me When You Walk Away (1974), a grimly comic account of the machinations on either side of the Iron Curtain when a Soviet author is awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature. The Man Who Wanted Tomorrow (1976), about the hunt for a Nazi war criminal, was extrapolated from a handful of facts but came so close to the truth of a real operation that the CIA asked Freemantle if he had access to a mole. In 1975 Freemantle gave up journalism to write full-time. On his last day at the Mail, David English, saluting his efforts in Saigon, pulled him by rickshaw from the office to El Vino. Vietnamese Orphans boarding an aircraft chartered by the Daily Mail in Operation Mercy Airlift: Freemantle is in the centre holding a child - Bill Cross/Daily Mail/Shutterstock Freemantle eventually published some 80 books. In addition to his thrillers, he wrote novels about HMS Bounty and the Mary Celeste under the pseudonym John Maxwell, and yarns featuring Sherlock Holmess illegitimate son. His works of non-fiction included histories of the KGB (1982) which saw him banned from entering the USSR and the CIA (1983). In The Fix: Inside the World Drug Trade (1986) he argued that doctors should prescribe hard drugs to addicts to put the cartels out of business. He did not pine for the front line. His great friend Leslie Thomas, the comic novelist, observed in his memoirs that in middle age Freemantle had developed a fastidiousness about his clothes and personal appearance which scarcely fits him for adventure and was reluctant to go anywhere that does not have a choice of luxury hotels. Latterly he lived in a house overlooking the Cathedral Close in Winchester. In 1983 he secured a 35 rate reduction in the valuation court on the grounds that he had to endure the sight of the drug addicts, glue sniffers and fornicators with whom the Close was then thronged. Brian Freemantle married, in 1956, Maureen Tipney, a television make-up artist. She survives him with their three daughters. Brian Freemantle, born June 10 1936, died December 23 2024 Paul Nicholls is accused of smuggling fentanyl into the US via the dark web A British fan of Breaking Bad has been accused of trafficking 15 million of fentanyl that caused the death of two US Navy submariners. Paul Nicholls is now being extradited to the US after his appeal to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) to prevent his removal was rejected. The 46-year-old self-published author is accused of smuggling the drug into the US via the dark web. It is alleged the product which is 50 times stronger than heroin was responsible for the death Brian Jarrell and Ty Bell, two US mariners, who died within days of each other and were thought to be his customers. US police say the father of two ran a global fentanyl smuggling ring alongside 62-year-old Thomas Federuik between April 2017 and February 2018. Mr Nicholls, who is originally from Stoke-on-Trent but was living in Canada, has written a number of books, under the pseudonym, Nico Laeser, with themes including drug addiction. He has also painted a picture of Walter White the protagonist in the hit series Breaking Bad, who turns from chemistry teacher to mass-methamphetamine producer. Breaking Bad was a popular US TV series that saw a chemistry teacher become a mass-methamphetamine producer - Television Stills Mr Nicholls is facing charges of conspiracy to import and distribute controlled substances, and money laundering. He denies the charges, but after his appeal to the ECHR was rejected, the National Crime Agency is now arranging his removal to the US. Prosecutors say the drug supplied by Mr Nicholls and Mr Federuik caused the deaths of 25-year-old Jarrell and 26-year-old Bell when they were both stationed at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay in Camden County, Georgia. The two men were found dead days apart, as the US Navy confirmed both died of fentanyl overdoses. Katrina Berger, special agent for Homeland Security investigations, told the Daily Mail: This poison ultimately led to the deaths of two service members and destroyed the lives of countless others. Brian Jarrell, a US submariner, died of fentanyl overdose Ty Bell also died of a fentanyl overdose the pair died within days of each other and are said to have been among Mr Nichollss customers US prosecutors claim both men received packages from the dark web before their death. Postal packaging and labels were tracked back to Mr Nicholls and Mr Federuik who were seen dropping off packages for shipment. In February 2018, properties belonging to the pair were raided by The Royal Canadian Mounted Police, where evidence of 15 million-worth of the drug was found said to be enough to cause the deaths of thousands according to the Mounties. After dropping six parcels containing drugs at a post office, Mr Nicholls was arrested and sent back to Britain after the expiration of his Canadian visa. He is being held in Londons Wandsworth prison after being rearrested in May 2022 at Manchester Airport as he attempted to fly to Thailand. Karen Todner, his lawyer, told the paper: Nicholls denies any involvement in the supply of drugs to the US. Yvette Coopers legislation will mean longer sentences for abusers - Leon Neal/PA Child groomers are to be given longer prison sentences under tougher laws to be announced by Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary. Grooming will be treated as a statutory aggravating factor when judges sentence offenders for specified child sex offences including rape and sexual assault. It will mean judges will be required by law to hand down an additional length of time in jail on top of the sentence the groomer receives for any sexual offence committed against the victim. The law change comes after Elon Musk, the billionaire, attacked Sir Keir Starmers Government over tackling grooming gangs. It will also mean longer sentences for abusers who are part of the gangs but may not themselves have groomed a child, as a child having been groomed will be considered an aggravating factor in itself. The grooming will not have to be sexual. The tough new law was proposed by the Tories in their Criminal Justice Bill, but the legislation fell through when Rishi Sunak called an early election. Officials said it would capture models of exploitation not currently addressed elsewhere in legislation, such as where an offender sexually assaulted a victim who had been previously groomed by another member of the same gang. Ms Cooper announced the move on Monday, amid criticism of the Government for refusing to order a new inquiry into the grooming gangs scandal. She said making grooming an aggravating factor was necessary because the punishment must fit the terrible crime. She told MPs: All of us have a responsibility to protect our children. Perpetrators must be punished and pursued. Victims and survivors must be protected and supported. But these crimes have not been taken seriously for too long, and far too many children have been failed. That is why this Government is determined to act strengthening the law, taking forward recommendations from the independent inquiries, supporting stronger police action and protection for victims. Ms Cooper said the Government would also overhaul the information and evidence that is gathered on child sexual abuse and exploitation and embedded in a clear new performance framework for policing so these crimes are taken far more seriously. She said a new victims and survivors panel would be set up to advise ministers on wider work around child sexual exploitation and abuse, adding: We now need new impetus and action. The legislation to be included in the Governments Crime and Policing Bill is specifically designed to counter the behaviour of grooming gangs in Rochdale, Rotherham, Telford, Newcastle, Oxford and Reading. Mandatory reporting requirements The Home Office also confirmed that anyone who works with children and fails to report child sexual abuse will face prosecution, under changes to the law to be introduced later in 2025. Anyone working in a regulated activity in relation to children will be required by law to report to police if they know a child is being sexually abused. It was recommended by Alexis Jay, the former chairman of the national inquiry into child sexual abuse, which included the various child grooming gang scandals perpetrated by mainly British Asian men. Under the changes being brought forward in the Crime and Policing Bill, those who fail to report child sex abuse will be banned from working with children. Those found to have actively prevented others from reporting it, or covering up the crime, will face up to seven years in jail. The new mandatory reporting requirements will apply to teachers, social care workers, NHS staff and anyone else responsible for the care of children as part of their jobs. Ms Cooper added that arrests made by the child sexual exploitation police taskforce had increased by 25 per cent between July and September last year. The Home Secretary acknowledged the previous Conservative government for setting up the body, which targets group-based child sexual exploitation and abuse. She said: That sits alongside the Tackling Organised Exploitation programme, which is using advanced data and analytics to uncover the complex networks. The Rochdale and Oldham grooming gang. Now legislation aims at harsher punishment for child groomers Ms Cooper said the Government supported work by Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, into abuse in Oldham, which she said had led to new police investigations, arrests and convictions. She added: The leader of Oldham council has confirmed this week work to set up a further local independent inquiry is already under way, including liaison with Oldham survivors. We welcome and support this work, which will put victims voices at its heart. Ms Cooper announced that Tom Crowther, who led the inquiry into abuse in Telford, would be working with the Government and councils to engage more with victims and survivors. The Home Secretary added: We should also be clear, wherever there have been failings or that perpetrators of terrible crimes have not been brought to justice, the most important inquiries and investigations should be police investigations to track those perpetrators down, to bring them before the courts, and to get the victims the protection that they deserve. She said a significant package of measures would be announced by the Government in the next few weeks, aimed at tackling online child sexual exploitation and abuse. It will also target abuse images generated using artificial intelligence. We have to face the serious challenge that the fastest growing area of grooming and child abuse is now online, she said. Will AI cause mass deflation? By Peter St. Onge web posted January 6, 2024 Forbes Magazine warns AI will set off "The Great Deflation Bomb." Will we be buying eggs for fractions of a penny, houses for a song? The impact of Artificial Intelligence on the economy is heating up as AI begins to seep from its original killer app of cheating on college essays and porn. According to layoff firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas, in the last year, AI has accounted for one in ten layoffs in the tech sector and one in 50 layoffs overall. Small potatoes compared to the panicked warnings of a few years ago. But as Ray Kurzweil says, 1% in an exponential process is halfway there. And AI's economic impact is likely to be exponential -- so small you can barely see it, then it blows up and takes over everything. AI and Jobs The question of whether AI is a blessing or a curse very much depends on how hard it is to create new jobs. If it's easy to create new jobs, AI isn't a job crisis at all -- it's a ladder. Think Silicon Valley in the 90s, when the new jobs paid much better than whatever Palo Alto townies were doing before tech showed up. On the other hand, if it's hard to create new jobs, think Detroit in the 1970's. A hellscape. The old jobs are gone, nothing to replace them. Minimum wage at best, riots over universal basic income at worst. AI and Deflation Still, setting aside the job dynamics, one thing we can be sure of is AI will radically reduce prices -- deflation. This is because, across the board, AI replaces things that were more expensive -- especially when you consider AI combined with robots. Contrast with the 1990's internet, which reduced some prices -- say, buying things from Amazon or downloading an mp3 or movie. But a lot of the benefit from the internet was quantitative -- meaning stuff got better. It didn't necessarily get cheaper. After all, the 1990s internet couldn't run a factory. Or a chicken farm. It couldn't drive you to work, deliver your supply chain, or produce historical documentaries with a one-sentence prompt. So, yes, we could conceivably get eggs for pennies. The Fed and Deflation Phobia Now, there is one caveat. Because our Federal Reserve has a giant money printer, and they fear deflation more, apparently than they fear World War 3. Meaning that as soon as AI and robots start bringing down prices -- which is a good thing -- the Fed's immune response will kick in, and they'll do everything they can to print money. Potentially for years on end. Aside from what easy money does to the economy, that will make assets boom. So, eggs for pennies, houses for millions. What's Next Putting it together, if we did the jobs thing right, AI is a utopia, up there with the mechanization of agriculture -- or fire itself -- as one of the most amazing things to happen to humanity's quality of life. We might expect a ten-fold plus increase in standard of living -- roughly the difference between Switzerland and Botswana. But if we did the Detroit thing on jobs, making it hard to create jobs with regulation, licensing, and taxes, we become a continent-sized Detroit of former middle-managers warming their hands in steel drums made of rusted-out windmill turbines. A tiny AI-enabled elite at the top. A huge underclass below. Clamoring, no doubt, for Universal Basic Income. AI's impact will take a while, and the first decade might look closer to the internet qualitatively better but similar prices. But when it hits in full, I think we're looking at something akin to the industrial revolution. Peter St. Onge writes articles about Economics and Freedom. He's an economist at the Heritage Foundation, a Fellow at the Mises Institute, and a former professor at Taiwan's Feng Chia University. His website is www.ProfStOnge.com. Home The new design (right) features a large polar bear and ram, representing Greenland and the Faroes. Composite: Kongehuset.dk The Danish king has shocked some historians by changing the royal coat of arms to more prominently feature Greenland and the Faroe Islands in what has also been seen as a rebuke to Donald Trump. Less than a year since succeeding his mother, Queen Margrethe, after she stood down on New Years Eve 2023, King Frederik has made a clear statement of intent to keep the autonomous Danish territory and former colony within the kingdom of Denmark. Related: Trump Jr expected to visit Greenland on Tuesday amid fathers interest in island For 500 years, previous Danish royal coats of arms have featured three crowns, the symbol of the Kalmar Union between Denmark, Norway and Sweden, which was led from Denmark between 1397 and 1523. They are also an important symbol of its neighbour Sweden. But in the updated version, the crowns have been removed and replaced with a more prominent polar bear and ram than previously, to symbolise Greenland and the Faroe Islands respectively. The move comes at a time of increased tension over Greenland and its relations with Denmark, which continues to control its foreign and security policy. Incoming US president Trump last month said again that he wants the US to buy Greenland, and the Greenlandic prime minister, Mute Egede, recently accused Denmark of genocide in response to investigations of the forced contraceptive scandal of the 1960s and 70s. In Egedes own new years address he accelerated calls for Greenlandic independence and called for the shackles of the colonial era to be removed. Trumps son, Donald Trump Jr, was expected to visit Greenland on Tuesday, a local government official told Reuters, adding that it was a private visit and that he would be recording material for a podcast and would not meet with any local officials. Trump Sr later confirmed the trip was taking place in a post on his Truth Social website, without mentioning a date. He added: Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our Nation. We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside World. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN! The royal household said the coat of arms, which is used on official documents and seals and elements of which date back to the 12th century, strengthens the prominence of the commonwealth. The three crowns, it said, had been removed as it is no longer relevant. The changes, it said, were made after a recommendation from a committee that was appointed straight after his accession on 14 January 2024. Last week, in his first new year speech, the king said: We are all united and each of us committed for the kingdom of Denmark. From the Danish minority in South Schleswig which is even situated outside the kingdom and all the way to Greenland. We belong together. Related: Trump lobs threats at Greenland, Panama and Canada should we take him seriously? Since 1819, the royal arms have been changed three times before now, in 1903, 1948 and 1972. But the latest changes have been met by shock in some quarters. Ever since the peace treaty of Knared in 1613, which ended the Kalmar war, Sweden was forced to accept the Danish kings rights to use the Swedish symbol of the three crowns, said Dick Harrison, a history professor at the Swedish University of Lund, making its removal from the Danish coat of arms now a sensation. The symbol survived the huge defeats in the wars against Sweden in the 1640s and the 1650s, the loss of Norway in 1814, the loss of Schleswig to Germany in 1864, the transition to modernity, the loss of Iceland and the German occupation in world war II, he said. Thus, from the point of view of history, the fact that King Frederik X has decided to remove the symbol is a sensation. But Sebastian Olden-Jrgensen, a historian at the Saxo Institute at the University of Copenhagen, said it sends clear signals about current geopolitics, especially amid Greenlandic calls for independence. When the Greenlanders, and in a sense also the Faroese, toy with the idea of achieving full independence, the royal house shows they support the states policy, which is to preserve the unity of the realm, he told Berlingske. Royal expert Lars Hovbakke Srensen believes the changes reflect the kings personal interest in the Arctic, but also send a message to the world. It is important to signal from the Danish side that Greenland and the Faroe Islands are part of the Danish realm, and that this is not up for discussion. This is how you mark it, he told TV2. The government of Greenland has been contacted for comment. Alexander Surin, pictured with two Rolls-Royces, earned his nickname because of his luxury car fleet A fugitive British crime boss once dubbed Don Car-leone is facing the seizure of 3.5 million after a judge dismissed his claims he made his money from trading gold bullion. Alexander Surin, who earned his nickname because of his luxury car fleet, held millions of Bitcoin in an African account. However, High Court judge Mr Justice Mould has granted the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) the right to seize it after deciding it was laundered money from illegal drug trafficking. Surin, who has already been made to surrender three Ferraris, a Rolls-Royce and money from the sale of a Bugatti Veyron to the National Crime Agency (NCA) as the proceeds of crime, opened his cryptocurrency account with a company called Coinbase Kenya. He has claimed the Bitcoin in it was earned lawfully from two sales in Dubais gold souk, in deals with a trader operating out of small rooms in shops or buildings who has no website or bookkeeping records and conducts his business on the basis of trust and reputation. But Martin Evans KC, for the CPS, told the High Court there was compelling evidence the money was made through drug dealing and money laundering. He said two large transfers into the Coinbase Kenya account were made from Christian Hargreaves, who was later jailed in the UK for 17 years for conspiracy to supply class A drugs, during the period covered by the conviction. No evidence showing criminality Mr Evans said the fact that Surin and Hargreaves were British created the sufficient connection to England and Wales required by proceeds of crime legislation for seizure of the cryptocurrency in the African account. In response, Surin, who is believed to be living in Dubai, claimed in email correspondence that there was no evidence to show my involvement in any criminality to suggest that the bitcoins were the proceeds of crime. Mr Evans told the court that apart from two fake invoices, Surin had provided no records to explain how he had become so wealthy after having previous assets seized. In 2015, after Surins conviction in France for drug trafficking, the NCA brought a High Court action which resulted in him being made to hand over the cars and other assets including four London homes. Mr Justice Mould said: The evidence advanced by the [CPS], that in each case those transactions were made by Hargreaves with the knowledge of the defendant with a view to laundering money derived from illegal drug trafficking, is compelling. [Surins] alternative explanation, that each was a legitimate gold bullion sale to Panache Jewels LLC, lacks any credibility in the face of the [CPSs] evidence. In 2015, Surin, whose original name was Michael Boparan, and his wife accepted that 4.5 million of assets seized from them by the NCA were acquired through crime. The assets included three Ferraris, a Rolls-Royce and the profits from the sale of a Bugatti Veyron as well as flat in St Johns Wood, money from the sale of three other London homes and two houses in Kent. The last few years have seen huge changes to the way we work. Weve seen a rise in hybrid and remote working, the uptake of AI in hiring and data management, and a range of new labour laws aimed at boosting worker rights. Weve also changed the way we think about work with more people prioritising their health and happiness over traditional career progression. In 2025, were set to see even more changes. Not only are legal reforms on the horizon in the UK, were also seeing larger companies introduce return-to-office policies at the risk of alienating talent. So what trends can we expect to see emerging over the next year, and how will they affect our work? The battle for remote work Over the past few months, major companies such as Starbucks (SBUX), Disney (DIS), Apple (AAPL) and Amazon (AMZN) have announced new policies mandating their employees to cut back on working from home and return to their offices for as much as five days a week. Unsurprisingly, the moves were met with backlash from employees who went on strike, sent public letters to employees, and even quit. Return-to-office mandates have also led to "hushed hybrid" working, where employees can work from home despite an official company policy mandating otherwise. But while some organisations are backtracking on flexible working, many are still focusing on flexibility. According to the 2023 Flexible Jobs Index by Timewise, 31% of job adverts overtly offer flexible working, up from 15% in 2019. Read more: Which AI skills benefit women at work? Remote work will still be key for many employers next year, particularly with the introduction of the Employment Rights Bill which gives employees the right to flexible working from day one, says Tom Cornell, an organisational psychologist at HireVue. Employers must build flexible working arrangements, including options to work remotely, into their recruitment and talent strategies from the outset. Emily Maguire, career and business consultant at Reflections Career Coaching, adds: As we move into 2025, we can expect companies to move to more hybrid models of working and less fully remote work, whereby employees will work from both home and the office. Weve changed the way we think about work with more people prioritising their health and happiness over traditional career progression. (Hiraman via Getty Images) More AI intervention in hiring Around three in 10 UK employers are implementing AI in their recruitment process. As of mid 2023, 16% of businesses were using some form of the technology for hiring, cybersecurity or streamlining other processes. According to Alastair Brown, chief technology officer at BrightHR, a widespread uptake of AI is on the cards. AI is still underutilised by businesses across the globe, primarily due to a lack of understanding about how it can be adopted ethically and purposefully, says Brown. In 2025, we are likely to see this change as governmental regulation of AI strengthens, especially in the UK, which will help define the parameters for the fair and ethical use of AI in the workplace. Next year could be the year that we see the end of the "AI wild west" that companies have been operating in so far. More businesses will recognise the need to create clear policies on the use of AI and lay out guidelines for how it can be adopted purposefully and successfully in the workplace, he says. Emphasis on human skills Although more companies will use AI, many are trying to find the right balance between automation and human interaction. The increased use of AI will also place more emphasis on hiring workers with socioeconomic skills such as empathy especially for tasks that require a personal touch, such as building strong relationships, says Maguire. Read more: How employers can adjust to a four-day work week Curiosity, adaptability and resilience will also be key, she adds. Workers who excel in these skills will be keen problem solvers, able to think creatively, adapt to workplace technology advancements, and upskill to stay relevant in the changing job market, says Maguire. Stronger workplace rights Next year is set to be a big year for employment law. Under the Labour government, there have already been significant changes to employment and equality legislation, most notably the upcoming Employment Rights Bill and the Equality (Race and Disability) Bill. Under new legislation likely to come into force by 2025 employees could have the right to request flexible working from day one of employment. Employers must provide a response faster than the current three-month timeframe, says Rachel Lewandowska, managing director at Avant Garde London. New rules promoting gender pay gap reporting and greater pay transparency across roles may be introduced, especially for larger companies. Kate Palmer, employment services director at Peninsula, adds that there will be greater protections against unfair dismissal and a possible ban on zero-hour contracts. Also, a new entitlement to statutory neonatal care leave will be introduced in April 2025, which will allow parents to extend their maternity and paternity leave if their baby needs to receive neonatal care, she says. The increased use of AI will place more emphasis on hiring workers with socioeconomic skills such as empathy. (Morsa Images via Getty Images) Right to disconnect Its easy for the pressures of work to spill over into non-work life, especially for home-workers. In recognition of this, lawmakers in Spain and France have given workers the legal right to disconnect from work. Essentially, this means employees can leave their work at work without emails, phone calls and messages bothering them outside of their allocated working hours. Employers should keep an eye on the right to disconnect, which may see some development in the UK in 2025, says Palmer. Its not been included in the Employment Rights Bill because no actual law on it will be introduced. Instead, a statutory code of practice will be put in place which places expectations on employers to manage it correctly. Non-traditional benefits Were also likely to see an increased focus on employee health, which includes better mental health resources. As part of this "wellbeing" drive, employers may offer "non-traditional" benefits like paid leave for menstrual problems, fertility benefits like egg freezing, and better support for workers going through menopause. Women and people who menstruate and go through menopause, should have access to workplace adjustments, flexible hours, and menopause-specific health resources, says career expert Lauren Chiren, CEO and founder of Women of a Certain Stage. By advocating for meaningful workplace support especially during life transitions like menopause we can create workplaces that empower and inspire us to bring our best selves to work and beyond. Read more: Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android. A vigil for the victims of the New Orleans truck attack. Photograph: Eduardo Munoz/Reuters Federal authorities investigating the avowed Islamic State (IS) sympathizer who carried out the New Years Day Bourbon Street terror attack in New Orleans said they were still investigating his potential associates elsewhere in the US and abroad. In a news briefing, officials from the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) said they were pursuing leads in Houston, Atlanta and Tampa, Florida. They also revealed that Shamsud-Din Jabbar visited New Orleans twice in the months before the attack, and, on one of those trips, rode a bicycle up Bourbon Street wearing smart Meta glasses and also rode around the French Quarter neighborhood ostensibly, officials said, to prepare for the attack that he carried out, killing 14 people and injuring dozens more. Related: Republicans try to exploit New Orleans attack to push through Trump agenda Speaking to reporters, the FBIs deputy assistant director of counter-terrorism, Christopher Raia, said: All investigative details and evidence that we have now still support that Jabbar acted alone here in New Orleans. We have not seen any indications of an accomplice in the United States, but we are still looking into potential associates in the US and outside of our borders. Raia went on to reveal the itineraries of several trips including his ultimate target that Jabbar, 42, took before the deadly attack. In 2023, Jabbar traveled to Cairo, the Egyptian capital, from 22 June to 3 July, according to Raia. He then flew to Canada on 10 July and returned to the US three days later. Then in 2024, Jabbar made at least two trips to New Orleans one in October and then another in November. Beginning 30 October, while the city celebrated Halloween, Jabbar stayed at a rental home in New Orleans and was in the city at least two days during that time, Raia said. Jabbar, using Meta glasses, recorded a video as he rode through the French Quarter on a bicycle, Raia said. Videos showed Jabbar during that trip in October with his Meta glasses. As we continue to learn more about that trip, we ask anyone who may have seen or interacted with him to contact us now for more information. One video clip released by the FBI showed Jabbar riding up Bourbon during the daytime on an unspecified date. He was about two blocks away from where he was killed in a gunfight with police who confronted him. Another clip shows him riding on Canal Street, about two blocks away, and across the road from the entrance to Bourbon Street, where he later rounded a police cruiser blocking the street and launch the attack. One clip showed Jabbar wearing a pair of the glasses as they recorded video. In the clip, he looked at himself in a mirror inside a home, wearing a T-shirt with the words It all starts with VMWare vSphere an apparent reference to the cloud computing virtualization platform. Raia said Jabbar was wearing the glasses which allow users to take photos and videos, as well as livestream hands-free during the night of the attacks. However, Jabbar did not activate the glasses to livestream the attacks, said Raia, without elaborating. It was only the latest ominous revelation of the weaponization of yet another tech giants technology in the case. Officials have said Jabbar obtained a short-term rental home where he stayed in the final hours before the attack on the Airbnb platform. And officials have said he rented the truck used in the attack on the Turo platform. Meanwhile, the army released information showing Jabbar and Matthew Livelsberger a decorated special forces solider who died in an apparent suicide and vehicle bombing at a Trump hotel in Las Vegas on New Years Day both served in the military branch in Afghanistan for about seven months beginning in May 2009. Livelsberger at the time was assigned to the 10th special forces group, and Jabbar was a human resources specialist. Jabbar and Livelsberger also served at the armys Fort Bragg in North Carolina for about 10 months beginning in December 2012, the branchs statement said. Livelsberger rented the car used in the Las Vegas explosion from Turo. Despite the multiple coincidences, Raia said earlier this week: At this point there is no definitive link between the attack here in New Orleans and the one in Las Vegas. Journalist Steve Herman on Sunday published a screenshot of an alert saying the cases in New Orleans and Las Vegas had prompted the US militarys northern command to direct all military installations to immediately implement heightened security measures, including 100% ID checks, random inspections and suspension of the so-called trusted traveler program administered by the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency. Authorities also disclosed more details of Jabbars movements on the day of the attack. Investigators believe Jabbar crossed into Louisiana from Texas at about 2.30pm on 31 December, Raia said. He said he rented a vehicle that was seen again in Gonzales, Louisiana, a drive west of a little less than an hour from New Orleans, at about 9pm. By 10pm, footage showed Jabbar unloading the white pickup truck in New Orleans outside of the rental home he used in the citys St Roch neighborhood, about two miles away from Bourbon Street. At 12.41am, Jabbar parked the truck and walked to Royal and Governor Nichols streets, one block toward the Mississippi River from the 1200 block of Bourbon. He placed the first of two homemade bombs designed to be detonated by remote control hidden in a cooler in about the 600 block of Bourbon Street at 1.53am. According to federal authorities, an individual on Bourbon Street who authorities said they have no reason to believe was involved dragged the cooler a block to about the 700 block of Bourbon, where authorities found it after the attack. At about 2.20am in about the 500 block of Bourbon, Jabbar placed the second homemade bomb in a cooler, authorities said. At 3.15am, Jabbar plowed the rented truck into the crowd of revelers on Bourbon Street, starting at the beginning of the 100 block and crashing in the middle of the 300 block. The truck, authorities said, displayed an IS. The rifle he used in the shootout was bought privately from someone who did not know what he had planned, officials said. Officials said Jabbar who wore body armor and a helmet had fashioned a homemade device meant to suppress the noise of gunshots fired by the rifle. Additionally, in regards to the devices Jabbar made, authorities said he didnt have access to a detonator so he used an electrical match in its place to try and set off the explosive material. Joshua Jackson, the ATFs New Orleans field divisions special agent in charge, said: The IED is not unique. The abnormality is that Jabbar used an explosive material that is set off by a detonator. Detonators are not easily accessible by the common citizen, so usually homemade bombs are made with explosive material that is set off by a flame. Jackson added: Jabbars lack of experience and crude nature of putting the device together is the reason why he used the wrong device to set the explosives off. Shortly after 5am, a fire was reported at the Mandeville Street rental home. Local firefighters found explosive devices and bomb-making materials. According to Jackson, Jabbar set the fire using an open flame just before he left. The fire began in the linen closet next to the rental homes washer and dryer. Jabbar also placed accelerants in other rooms of the home which we believe was intentional so that the entire residence would burn down in an attempt to destroy evidence of his crimes, Jackson said. Jackson also revealed that Jabbar drove from Houston to New Orleans by himself. And throughout his entire time at the rental location in New Orleans, he was the only one seen coming and going from that location, Jackson said. Video footage from a doorbell camera obtained by CNN also showed Jabbar outside the rental home before the attack by himself. Speaking at the briefing about the bomb-making supplies at the short-term rental, Joshua Jackson, the ATFs New Orleans field divisions special agent in charge, said the explosive materials recovered were all relatively common and available right here in the United States. Those statements appeared to dispel some reporting that Jabbar had used rare explosive material not seen in the US or Europe. Jabbars father had converted from Christianity to Islam. The army veterans name was given to him at birth, though he converted to Islam later. All available indications were that Jabbar fell into extremism after marital and financial woes. He had previously spent more than a decade in the US army, having served in Afghanistan and having earned a global war on terrorism service medal. Livelsberger, the Las Vegas suspect, had reportedly shown depressive symptoms after returning from a tour in Afghanistan in 2019 with a traumatic brain injury but not treated them. His wife had reportedly broken up with him after an argument over apparent infidelity less than a week before the explosion. Ramon Antonio Vargas contributed to this report The president-elect has vowed to hand out pardons to non-violent offenders convicted for the assault on the US Capitol. Photograph: Stephanie Keith/Reuters Good morning. Once back in power, Donald Trump has promised he will pardon people prosecuted over the assault on the Capitol four years ago today. Carried out by a mob of Trumps supporters after he had addressed them outside the White House, the 6 January 2021 attack brought political violence into the halls of Congress and has been linked to nine deaths among police and rioters. Were going to look at each individual case, and were going to do it very quickly, and its going to start in the first hour that I get into office, Trump told Time magazine. A vast majority should not be in jail, and theyve suffered gravely. The pardons would mark the end of a four-year campaign by Joe Biden and his attorney general, Merrick Garland, to hold accountable thousands of rioters who overran police lines and sent lawmakers fleeing. Were excited that we have our country back, one convicted man said in anticipation. How many have been charged? The justice department has charged more than 1,500 people, nearly 600 of whom have faced felony charges of assaulting or impeding law enforcement. How popular would the move be? For all the enthusiasm among Trumps supporters, a December poll from Monmouth University found that 61% of respondents would disapprove of Trump pardoning people convicted of attacking the Capitol. FBI investigates potential associates of New Orleans attacker in US and abroad Federal authorities investigating the Islamic State (IS) sympathizer who carried out the New Years Day terror attack in New Orleans said they were still looking into his potential associates in the US and abroad. In a news briefing, officials also revealed Shamsud-Din Jabbar visited New Orleans twice in the months before the attack. On one of those trips, he cycled on Bourbon Street, wearing smart Meta glasses, and around the French Quarter neighborhood apparently preparing the attack, officials said, which killed 14 people and injured dozens. What do we know about the attack? Jabbers truck displayed an IS flag. A rifle he used in the shootout was bought privately from someone who did not know what he had planned. Officials said Jabbar who wore body armor and a helmet had fashioned a homemade device meant to suppress the noise of gunshots fired by the rifle. What do authorities believe about the motive? Indications suggest Jabbar fell into extremism after marital and financial woes. Ukraine launches surprise operation in Russias Kursk region Ukrainian armed forces began a surprise offensive in Russias Kursk region on Sunday, in an apparent attempt to regain the battlefield initiative before Trumps inauguration. Video showed Ukrainian armored columns advancing across snowy fields towards the village of Bolshoe Soldatskoe, north-east of the Ukrainian-held Russian town of Sudzha. Inside Ukraine, Russia is advancing at the fastest rate since its full-scale 2022 invasion. Putins seeming calculation is that the new administration will cut off military supplies to Ukraine, allowing Russian forces to make further gains in 2025. What are the battlefront details? Ukraines general staff said 42 combat clashes took place on Sunday in the Kursk area, with 12 continuing. Whats happened since Ukraines first Russian offensive? Ukraine launched a significant cross-border raid nearly six months ago into the Kursk region. It was the first time enemy tanks had penetrated Russian territory since the second world war and was a major embarrassment for the Kremlin. Since then Russias army has recaptured about 40% of lost territory but has been unable to push them out fully. In other news The former French president Nicolas Sarkozy goes on trial today, accused of receiving millions of euros in illegal campaign funds from late-Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi. Biden signed into law a measure that boosts social security payments for current and former public employees, such as teachers, firefighters, police officers and other public service workers. Dont feed the troll, the German chancellor, Olaf Scholz, said about Elon Musk. The worlds richest man has recently been vocally supporting European far-right parties and attacking centrists and progressives. Indian media rights groups have called for an investigation after the body of a missing journalist, Mukesh Chandrakar, was found hidden in a septic tank. Stat of the day: 45,541 people killed in Gaza since 7 October 2023 About 45,541 people have been killed in Gaza, Unrwa says, as Israels invasion and air bombardment continues to have a devastating humanitarian impact. More than 100 people were killed by Israeli strikes over the weekend. Thousands more Palestinians are believed to be buried under the rubble. Meanwhile, Israel and Hamas are wrangling over the details of a potential deal to return Israeli hostages home. Dont miss this: The Brutalist, Emilia Perez and Shogun triumph at the Golden Globes Hollywoods awards season began last night, with The Brutalist winning three Golden Globes. The epic tells the story of a Holocaust survivor turned immigrant architect, and won best drama film, best actor for Adrien Brody and best director for Brady Corbet. Peter Bradshaws review says its an electrifying piece of work, stunningly shot. Climate check: Shrinking trees and tuskless elephants the strange ways species are adapting to humans As people have shaped the natural world, wildlife has evolved to survive. Magpies have learned to build nests with anti-bird spikes. American cliff swallows in North America have developed shorter wings, helping to avoid cars. African elephants, after heavy poaching during Mozambiques civil war, had the genes for large tusks removed from the population, with many now having no tusks. Last Thing: Snowed in at Britains highest pub With snow falling on Saturday night at the Tan Hill Inn, Britains highest pub, a crowd of about 30 people inside know they are probably stuck here for a couple of days. Drinks began to flow and people began to make friends. Robyn Vinter reports from the bar. Sign up First Thing is delivered to thousands of inboxes every weekday. If youre not already signed up, subscribe now. Get in touch If you have any questions or comments about any of our newsletters please email newsletters@theguardian.com The body of Henry Keith, a 25-year-old former pupil at Harrow School, was found two days after diving into Wroxham Broad at midnight - East Anglia News Service A former schoolboy at one of Britains elite public schools drowned in the Norfolk Broads after diving into water following a heavy drinking session. Henry Keith, who attended Harrow School in north-west London, went for a late-night swim in Wroxham Broad after he had been shooting and drinking with Cpt Sebastian Cator, an old school friend and British Army officer, in August last year. The 25-year-old did not emerge from the water despite being a strong swimmer. His body was found nearby two days later. Cpt Cator told an inquest into Mr Keiths death on Monday that he was bringing his boat to a halt in the river when his friend jumped into the water. Norfolk coroners court in Norwich heard how the friends had gone shooting before visiting the Swan Inn pub in Horning and returning to Cpt Cators home. They ate a meal with Cpt Cators father before heading out on to the Broad on the boat where they listened to music and decided to take a swim shortly before midnight. The hearing was told that the pair had started drinking at around 3.30pm and had consumed five bottles of lager each, shared a bottle of rose and a bottle of white wine at dinner, as well as vodka and ginger beer on the boat. I began to panic Cpt Cator told of how he heard a scratching or tapping noise on the underside of the boat after Mr Keith jumped in. My immediate reaction was that he was trying to play a prank on me, he recalled. I walked around either edge of the boat and could not find him. That was when I realised he was not playing a joke and when I began to panic. Cpt Cator said he frantically called for Mr Keith, a director of the Organic Pig Company, but received no response. He then called the emergency services. The hearing was told that Mr Keiths body was recovered two days later on Aug 18, in an upright position beneath the surface a short distance from where he entered the water. He was found to have had 185mgs of alcohol per 100mls of his blood, just over twice the legal drink-drive limit. Mr Keith and his friend, Cpt Sebastian Cator, both attended Harrow School - Education Images/Universal Images Group/Getty Images Cpt Cator said he constantly replayed the evening in his mind and questioned his decision not to enter the water to look for Mr Keith. Asked by Mr Keiths brother Edward why he did not jump in, he said: I wanted to, and I do not know why I did not. Maybe I should have done, and I can only apologise for that. Yvonne Blake, the Norfolk area coroner, concluded that his death was an accident. The inquest heard that questions remained over what had caused Mr Keith to drown because he was known to be fit and a very strong swimmer. The coroner said: He could have knocked his head on something under the water which could have stunned him. It seems to me that he decided to go for a swim and then was just not seen again. A huge void for our family In a tribute outside the coroners court, Mr Keiths family said: The loss of our precious Henry has created a huge void for our family and all the many friends who loved him dearly. He was a caring and cheerful young man with a bright future ahead of him. The family thanked emergency services involved in the search for him, particularly the Hemsby lifeboat and Norfolk Lowland search and rescue. They added: These two organisations did not rest for a moment until he was found. In an earlier tribute, posted with a notice of his funeral, they said: Truly he was a gift from God, taken back on a golden summer day. The statement described him as a beloved son of parents James and Vicky, an adored brother to his four siblings and a soulmate. It added: The most wonderful, unique, charming and brilliant young man, universally adored. Rest in Peace darling Henry. Justin Trudeau A decade ago, Justin Trudeau came to power in Canada surfing a wave of progressive adulation at home and abroad. He had single-handedly resuscitated the Liberal Party of Canada, which had been nearing extinction. He handily defeated Stephen Harper, the accountant-like Conservative premier whose quiet competence had come to bore his countrymen. And he seemed like the natural heir to Barack Obamas brand of new liberalism, which was in search of a new standard-bearer. Everything has now ended in tears. Today, Canada serves as a cautionary tale around the world, its international standing brought so low that Donald Trump thinks nothing of suggesting its annexation to the United States. Whether it is its failing economy, its collapsing immigration system, or its inhuman euthanasia regime, the very word Canada has come to embody the excesses of an era of Western politics that is now coming to a close. For this, Mr Trudeau is entirely to blame. His boyish charm and colourful socks had blinded many to the reality of a not-too-bright nepo baby, the son of a prime minister who piggybacked on his fathers name in order to launch his political career. A man who spoke in slogans and governed in tantrums, whose easy-going manners hid a thoroughly nasty streak and lack of moral character. As a young man, he had worn blackface. When this came to light, he told Canadians that this was a learning moment, as if it was them, not him, who had applied black paint to their faces, in the manner of a schoolmaster disappointed with his charges. As prime minister, he defenestrated his justice minister for reportedly refusing to look the other way at corruption. He seemed to use Covid to drive Canadians against each other, and look the other way while China was allegedly interfering in Canadian elections for the benefit of his party. He was investigated for conflicts of interest three times and was found to have broken the law twice. At times, it seemed as if every person running Canada had been a groomsman at his wedding. But his most harmful legacy for Canada may well be his undermining of its nationhood. Love him or hate him, no one had been in any doubt about his fathers patriotism. But having told the New York Times that Canada could become the worlds first post-national state, Justin Trudeau did his best to turn his dream into a reality. His government cheapened Canadian citizenship, systematically attacked Canadas past, and did what it could to dissolve the bonds which held the country together. If pride in Canada is at its lowest in decades among Canadians, and if separatist movements are gaining in popularity east and west, it is because of the deliberate actions of his government, whose most fervent desire seems to have been to turn Canada into an economic zone, whose inhabitants were associated with each other by nothing more than the fact that they paid taxes to the same government department. In December, Mr Trudeau finally overreached. Having peremptorily dismissed his loyal finance minister on Zoom days before she was due to deliver a mini-budget, he seemed surprised when she did not simply roll over and obey his commands. Even in defeat he could not be gracious, proroguing Parliament for almost three months at a critical time for Canadas future instead of facing the voters, whom he knew were set on wiping his party from the map. It was a fitting end to the rule of a small man, who through luck and unearned fame came to ruin a great country. Emily Damari was kidnapped on October 7 from her home near the Gaza border A British woman is on a Hamas list of hostages approved for release, which has been widely criticised by families in Israel, The Telegraph has learnt. Emily Damari, 28, was kidnapped on Oct 7 from her home of Kibbutz Kfar Aza, a village near the Gaza border, where she was born and raised. A source told The Telegraph that the list of 34 hostages, which includes children, women, elderly and ill, was agreed to by Hamas, but that the terror group had not provided information on who on the list was still alive. Kfir Bibas, aged one, and his brother Ariel Bibas, five, are the only children still held hostage in Gaza and are also on the list, as well as five young, unarmed Israeli female observers who were beaten and kidnapped from the Nahal Oz military base. Ofri Bibas-Levi, the sister of Yarden Bibas, taken captive on Oct 7, along with his wife Shira and two young sons, said the leaked list had only fed into the daily turmoil of not knowing what was real or fake news. The Bibas family were taken captive by Hamas on October 7 I dont really know if its credible so I try not to put too much on it. I was really upset to see any kind of list was published, abroad and in Israel. It has no purpose, it only makes the families shaken and torn between us, she told The Telegraph, admitting she barely even glanced at the names. Ofri Bibas Levy at a press conference discussing her brother and his familys kidnapping - Salvatore Di Nolfi/Keystone Posters with images of the Bibas family, who are held hostage by Hamas, are attached to chairs during a Passover ceremony - Amir Cohen/REUTERS The source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that Israel demanded that any hostages released were alive and not corpses: So until theres a clarification on the list, theres still work to be done to agree on the ceasefire. Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, said Washington wanted to see a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas concluded before President Joe Biden leaves office in two weeks. We very much want to bring this over the finish line in the next two weeks, the time we have remaining, Mr Blinken said when asked about the renewed efforts to bring about a ceasefire. Mr Blinkens comments came as David Barnea, Israels intelligence chief, was reportedly scheduled to depart for yet another round of talks in Qatar on Monday. Antony Blinken has said Washington wanted to see a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas before president Biden leaves office - Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images North America The US, Israel and Hamas have all said in recent months that most of the major issues have been resolved, but that the question of Israels continued presence in Gaza has prevented a deal from being struck. The question on the number and identity of Palestinian prisoners to be released in the ceasefire has largely been resolved and so have other gaps for now, the source added. Israel has insisted that it continue to control the Philadelphi corridor, a buffer zone that separates Egypt from Gaza, as well as an army presence on the Netzarim corridor which separates northern and southern Gaza. The source also stressed that under no circumstances will Israel decide to end the war in Gaza. It will be a ceasefire, where the international system along with Israel will hopefully manage to solve the issue of Hamas having any influence in Gaza, the source said. The Italian prime minister has built a close relationship with Elon Musk - Chigi Palace press office/EPA Italy is reportedly close to sealing a 1.5 billion (1.25 billion) deal with Elon Musks SpaceX that would provide the countrys government with secure telecommunications. Giorgia Melonis government is in advanced talks with the billionaire tech entrepreneur and, according to Bloomberg news, a deal has already been approved by Italys ministry and intelligence services. Ms Meloni has built a close relationship with the Tesla billionaire, describing him last week as a genius who had been wrongly presented as a monster because of his support for Donald Trump. On Monday, the Italian prime minister sought to play down speculation about an imminent deal, which has reportedly been under discussion since mid-2023. The prime ministers office denies that any contracts have been signed or any agreements made between the Italian government and the company SpaceX for the use of the Starlink satellite communications system, Ms Melonis office said in a statement on Monday. There was no denial of negotiations taking place. Ms Meloni has a close relationship with Mr Trump, too, having visited the president-elects at his residence at Mar-a-Lago on the weekend - FILIPPO ATTILI/Shutterstock Negotiations on the telecoms deal reportedly progressed after Ms Meloni paid a surprise visit to Mr Trump in Florida on Saturday, even though Mr Musk did not attend their meeting at the presidents residence at Mar-a-Lago. Ms Melonis office said it was simply ridiculous to suggest the deal was discussed during the prime ministers meeting with Mr Trump. Mr Musk suggested a deal was close, posting on X on Monday: Ready to provide Italy with the most secure and advanced connectivity! Under the proposed deal, SpaceX would supply Italy with a full range of encryption for telephone and internet services used by the government. It would include communications services for Italys military in the Mediterranean and satellite services for use in emergencies such as terrorist attacks or natural disasters. The reported deal comes at a time when Mr Musk engages in a war of words with centre-Left leaders across Europe. The Tesla businessman offered his support for Donald Trump throughout the 2024 US election - Brandon Bell/Getty Images On Monday he called Sir Keir Starmer utterly despicable after the Prime Minister accused him of spreading lies over historical sexual abuse by grooming gangs in northern England. He also expressed support for Alternative for Germany (AfD) ahead of the countrys elections next month and labelled Olaf Scholz a fool. Leaders of Italys centre-Left Democratic Party, the countrys main opposition, are likely to provoke the ire of Mr Musk after raising concerns about the reported deal. We are facing disturbing news and it is necessary for the government to come to parliament as soon as possible to clarify the choices being made regarding such sensitive issues, leaders of the party said in a joint statement on Monday. The party leaders said communications encryption services and military applications were particularly sensitive for the countrys national security and required more transparency. They also noted the services could be provided by Italian and European companies. A SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket with Psyche spacecraft lifted off in Florida as part of a NASA mission in 2023 - CRISTOBAL HERRERA-ULASHKEVICH/Shutterstock Italy has one of the worlds most competitive markets for phone carriers, an industry which has faced recent upheaval. In 2023, Telecom Italia SpA, the countrys former telephone monopoly, sold its landline network to KKR & Co., an American private equity firm, in a 22 billion (18.25 billion) deal. The grid sale was the first of its kind for a European phone company and was backed by the Meloni government. Swisscom, the major telecommunications provider in Switzerland, has just acquired Vodafone Italia for 8 billion (6.6 billion) after receiving final regulatory approval from Italian authorities. In 2024, Mr Musks SpaceX added more than 20 nations, from Ghana to Argentina, to its Starlink satellite internet service. It now serves more than four million people in over 100 countries and territories. Did Keir Starmer not have the wit to see that whats needed is a national moment of recognition for girls who hitherto were ignored by police and social services? - LEON NEAL The PMs new year reset began with the most tone-deaf, self-harming speech since Chamberlain called Hitler a peacenik. He delivered the formal part of his presentation, on the NHS, with W1A platitudes and rolled-up sleeves as if braced to give Wes Streeting a bed bath. Labour will catapult the service into the future and improve care from where it is now to beyond belief (Ill believe that when I see it). I wouldnt be standing here before you today if it wasnt for the NHS, he added. So now we know who to blame. But media questions inevitably turned to Elon Musks comments on Rotherham, which have been vile and inflammatory Jess Phillips is a witch and a rape genocide apologist yet probably reflect raw feelings on a horrific subject. Voters new to this story have read of depravity so deep it makes one want to cover Britain with petrol and light a match. So this was the PMs chance to show that, despite refusing to green-light a new inquiry, he gets it. Bang the podium. Shed a few tears. Jess Phillips was criticised after she refused to support an inquiry into historic sexual abuse in Oldham - Nicola Tree/Getty Instead, he accused critics of jumping on a bandwagon and fuelling the far-Right Labour speak for anyone Right of Mao reserving particularly harsh words for unnamed Tory MPs whom he feels have failed to denounce Elon or defend Jess. The reason why Ive emphasised this today is because once we abandon the truth, all else goes: if MPs wont stand up and denounce whats being said about Jess Phillips then you need to seriously think about why youre in politics. My jaw hit the floor and bounced down a rabbit hole. It sounded as if the great issue of the day is not the sexual abuse of young girls but the honour of Jess Phillips an assessment that only Ms Phillips would agree with, as she thinks literally everything, from the changing of the seasons to the tides of the sea, is about her. She is, as the PM implied, the most compassionate, courageous and modest woman in public life as her celebrated books Im Jess Phillips, Jess Phillips is Me and What its Like to be Jess Phillips will tell you. The shy lady was in the House later for a statement by Yvette Cooper, who argued that the Tories held an inquiry years ago and did nothing, whereas Labour prefers to act by making the reporting of abuse mandatory. Her impressive performance was undermined by, oh dear, Jess - her cardigan wrapped around her, pointing and shaking her head as if rowing with a teenager across a school canteen. Chris Philp, on behalf of the Tories, said he had in fact denounced attacks on ministers; Phillips cried Too late! Too late! No doubt she is the target of hate mail that belies her years of campaigning for women and children. But fault for the demonisation of Labour on this matter lies squarely with the PM, who is politically and emotionally out of his depth. He lacked the wit to see that we need a national moment of recognition for girls who hitherto were ignored by police and social services. Instead, he managed to appear more wound-up about the abuse MPs receive than the issue they are being abused over. A brief history of conservative publications in Canada updated to 2025 (Part One) By Mark Wegierski web posted January 6, 2025 A survey of conservative publications in Canada tells a sorry tale of short-lived efforts lacking the ideological coherence and material support necessary to make a significant impact. Any group of conservative writers and thinkers needs to be aware of the struggles of those who have gone before and to learn, if possible, from their mistakes. One of the most well-known quotations by Conrad Black concerns his promise (or threat) to establish a publication in Canada which would be a "National Review North." Although Lord Black certainly created a revolution in the Canadian newspaper world, whose effects continue to be felt today, he did not manage to create a publication that could play as profound a role in Canadian politics as the early National Review played in the creation of an American conservative movement. Black never allocated the funding for a profound intellectual journal of conservative opinion in Canada (although The National Post and other Black papers partially undertook such writing). In earlier decades, The Toronto Sun (descendant of The Toronto Telegraph) had carried a number of conservative columnists (some of whom were remarkably acerbic), but lacked the consistent intellectual credentials to avoid classification by critics as a "tabloid". In the 1980s, with a huge Progressive Conservative majority, there was some quickening of conservative intellectual life in Canada, but all struggled to achieve a lasting impact. The businessman William A. B. Campbell launched a magazine called International Conservative Insight, but the venture disappeared when it became apparent he wasn't going to turn a profit from this initiative. There was an attempt to produce a right-leaning newsmagazine in Ottawa called Seven Days, but it failed after a few issues. Dr. Branka Lapajne had somewhat more success with a monthly newspaper called The Phoenix, which continued for a few years before closing. There was also a brief attempt to launch a right-leaning student newspaper at the University of Toronto called The University of Toronto Magazine, but the paper faced troubles right from the start, for example over name duplication, and never managed to find its feet. Launched with great fanfare, Peter Worthington's Influence magazine collapsed after about two years. It began with a misstep billing itself as directed at "men of influence" -- and tried to sell itself as a magazine for wealthy businessmen, rather than for conservatives per se. The newsletters of the University of Toronto P.C.s, Rabble & Reaction, and of the young Ontario P.C.s, Blue Wave, were sometimes interesting but had nothing more than a local reach. The period was characterized by a variety of initiatives, none of which found a sustaining audience. Finally, there arose The Idler, a precocious journal of literary-artistic-cultural pretensions, with some sotto voce conservative philosophizing. It was in a non-glossy large-magazine format, with artistic covers in colour, the interior in black and white, and some interesting illustrations. It had a broad variety of contributors, many of whom were literary aspirants who avoided forthright political statements. The main problem with The Idler could be summed up by saying that it offered a tiny, frothy dessert confection as opposed to the "meat-and-potatoes" that many conservatives were hungering for at the time. The very title seemed redolent of affectation and political inaction. Considering that it often made a point of putting down ordinary people, it never achieved much of a circulation (apparently 8,000 at the maximum). The major conservative publications of the time were the Alberta Report/B.C. Report/Western Report of the Byfield family. Alberta Report had a circulation of about 60,000; B.C. Report about 15,000 (in the province of British Columbia); and Western Report (in the provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba), about 5,000. Even the most successful conservative publications were limited in their readership and impact. Some of the most long-lasting publications had an economic focus. The National Citizens' Coalition put out a newsletter-type publication, and the Fraser Institute produced Fraser Forum, which continually improved in physical quality. The Canadian Taxpayers' Federation also publishes a magazine. The trend of short-lived and varyingly ambitious ventures continued into the early 1990s. At this time, The Idler finally folded when foundation funding was withdrawn. William D. Gairdner, the author of the bestselling The Trouble with Canada tried to launch a newsletter-type publication called Speaking Out that failed with the first issue. In Toronto, Judi McLeod, who had been a prominent Toronto Sun columnist, launched Our Toronto Free Press, a free-distribution monthly newspaper (which has subsequently become a webzine). Toronto's free-distribution monthly newspaper Transforum was open to contributions from across the spectrum. There was also a free-distribution newspaper called Toronto Westend Express, in which some conservative articles appeared. Young writer Michael Taube attempted a 'zine called From The Right, which lasted only three issues. It was packed with interesting articles during its short lifespan. A major magazine (glossy, full-colour) open to contributions from across the spectrum was The Next City, which was supported by the Donner Canada Foundation. Gravitas (non-glossy, black-and-white, but with high-quality paper) also funded by Donner, was a brief, brave attempt at a conservative intellectual magazine of considerably greater social and political engagement than The Idler. It too failed to take off, perhaps because it was perceived to be too narrowly intellectual. The only real success among Canadian conservative publications were the Byfield newsmagazines. By the 1990s, the magazines looked in format somewhat like Time or Newsweek (glossy, full-colour covers, although mostly monochrome inside) and contained a variety of features. In summation, the 1980s was a dreadful time for conservatives in Canada unlike in the U.S. and Britain. Living in megapolitan Toronto before the coming of the Internet, it often must have seemed to conservative thinkers that nothing belonged to them except the few cubic centimeters inside their skull (as Orwell had put it). The Idler was certainly not an answer to this dilemma. With the rise of the Reform Party in the 1990s, there was greater hope -- but attempts to create an enduring conservative intellectual magazine (Gravitas came closest to it) continued to fail. In Part Two, the author will look at how subsequent ventures fared. To be continued. Mark Wegierski is a Canadian writer and historical researcher. Home Andrew McIntyre set up a Telegram channel called Southport Wake Up in the aftermath of the knife attack in Southport on 29 July. Photograph: Merseyside police/PA A man described as a leading organiser of last summers riots has been jailed for seven and a half years for using social media to encourage people to take part in the disorder. Andrew McIntyre, 39, set up a Telegram channel called Southport Wake Up in the immediate aftermath of the knife attack in the Merseyside town on 29 July last year, Liverpool crown court was told. Sentencing McIntyre, Judge Flewitt said the defendant was prominent among people responsible for spreading misinformation after the Southport attack. Related: Rioters after Southport attack largely racially motivated thugs, Met chief says You were motivated by racial hatred, he told McIntyre. I have no doubt your actions encouraged many people to plan and then to commit offences of both violent disorder and criminal damage. The campaign group Hope Not Hate said afterwards that McIntyre was a leading organiser and key architect of the riots and the UK was a safer place because he was now in jail. Arthur Gibson, prosecuting, said the case involved a sinister aspect of violence that took place in parts of the UK last summer. He said: It is the prosecution case that many of these seats of disorder were not simply spontaneous, or that persons coincidentally simply decided to turn up and take part. It is the crowns case that others, to a greater or lesser degree, participated in the organisation, encouragement and incitement of such gatherings, which resulted in the disorder. It is the crowns case that one such person is the defendant. The Southport Wake Up channel was identified by Hope Not Hate as a catalyst for and origin of a series of posts concerning incidents of violence, Gibson said. The court heard that McIntyre, who had pleaded guilty to encouraging violent disorder and possession of a knife, shared content from a site called Tommy Robinson/Britain First/For Britain about a protest in Southport on 30 July. He also posted a map, adding: Mosque at the top of Hart St. In a later post he wrote: Rise Up English Lads. 8pm tomorrow St Lukes Rd Southport. Hours before violence broke out in Southport on 30 July, he posted what was described as a clear threat to police, writing: Message to AllStand in our way, even if youre just doing your job prepare to fall. Another user responded: Well get to the mosque and rip it fucking down. The court was told McIntyres phone was in the area of St Lukes Road in Southport at 7pm on 30 July, and the car in which he was later arrested was also in the area when the disorder took place. The day after the disorder, McIntyre posted: Well done last night lads, to all you heavy hitters. Are you ready for Round 2??? Liverpool Mosque, West Derby Road, Friday 8pm. McIntyre was working as a taxi driver when he was stopped by police in Liverpool on 8 August and arrested, Gibson said. A knife was found hidden in the boot of his car and, when his home was searched, officers found weapons and a copy of Hitlers Mein Kampf, the court heard. The defendant was originally charged with encouraging murder, after posting a link to a YouTube video of Yvette Cooper, the home secretary, with the caption: Were going to hang this woman and her associates. Gibson said the decision was taken not to pursue the charge to trial because of evidential issues concerning whether the defendant actually believed the act would be carried out. The count was left to lie on the file at an earlier hearing. McIntyre, of Rufford, near Ormskirk, Lancashire, followed proceedings on a video link from HMP Liverpool, while his parents looked on from the courtrooms public gallery. Julian Nutter, defending, said: His parents are horrified that he is in this predicament. He is a man of previous good character and has never come to the attention of the police before. Hope Not Hate said it had been instrumental in securing the evidence that led to McIntyres prosecution. Joe Mulhall, the groups director of research, said: The country is safer with Andrew McIntyre behind bars. Hope Not Hate is proud to have provided the evidence against him. The overall picture of McIntyres social media use is of a man so consumed with hate and violence that he could find little satisfaction in activities that did not immediately quench his desire for harming others. Yasmin Qureshi was urged to apologise to the petitions founder after attributing its success to meddling by foreign actors - Dominic Lipinski/PA Archive A Labour MP has come under fire for claiming a petition backed by Elon Musk demanding a fresh general election was driven by foreign interference. Yasmin Qureshi was urged to apologise to the petitions founder after attributing its success to a lot of misinformation and meddling by foreign actors. MPs were forced to consider the demands on Monday after the petition garnered more than three million signatures, far surpassing the 100,000 needed to trigger a debate in Parliament. Launched in November, it calls for a re-run of the July 4 contest because the current Labour Government have gone back on the promises they laid out in the lead up to the last election. Mr Musk, the tech billionaire and ally of Donald Trump, appeared to back the demands last year, sharing a post about the petition with the caption: The people of Britain have had enough of a tyrannical police state. The online petition went on to garner more than three million signatures - Finnbarr Webster/Getty Images Europe During the debate in Westminster Hall on Monday, Ms Qureshi prompted a burst of laughter from the room by claiming the petition had grown in popularity partly owing to a lot of misinformation, and partly because of foreign interference. She was later rebuked by Mike Wood, the Tory MP for Kingswinford and South Staffordshire, who urged her to apologise to Michael Westwood, the founder of the petition and one of his constituents. Theres certainly no reason to imagine that Mr Westwood was in any way influenced by any foreign state or other foreign actor, he said. He is the owner of a small business in the Black Country, who has seen the impact of Labours broken promises. So I think the Honorable Lady really does owe Mr Westwood an apology, which I hope she will deliver in private after this debate. Ms Qureshi responded: At no time did I say the individual constituent was being influenced by foreign [actors]. No, I did not say that. What I said is that the petition, on its own has been motivated by a number of factors, but not at any time did I attribute anything to the individual constituent of yours. Sir Edward Leigh, the Tory MP and Father of the House, also urged the Government not to dismiss the petition as something cooked up abroad, apparently, or by nefarious forces, anti-democratic forces. He said it would be foolish to ignore the public disappointment and anger behind it, adding: I think itd be quite wise to listen to the public. Sir Edward Leigh, the Tory MP and Father of the House, said it would be foolish to ignore public disappointment and anger - Paul Grover for The Telegraph Sir Keir Starmer dismissed the petition when it was raised by Kemi Badenoch, the Tory leader, at Prime Ministers Questions last year, telling the Commons: We had a massive petition on July 4. Several Labour MPs came to his defence during Mondays debate, with Douglas McAllister, who represents West Dunbartonshire, describing the Prime Minister as a hero who makes us look cool. He appeared to be channelling Nigel Farage, who was also at the debate and previously used the same language to describe Mr Musk. While it was widely acknowledged that general elections cannot be triggered by petitions, the Government was warned to take heed of the anger from constituents that had sparked the debate. Mark Francois, the shadow defence secretary, said: We now have a Labour Government, which, by breaking so many of its promises so early to those that elected them, has already all but surrendered its moral right to govern. The British people, they want change all right. They want a change from Labour, and the sooner, the better. Labour has been accused of breaking its promises to pensioners by scrapping the introduction of the social care cap, cutting the winter fuel payment and refusing to compensate the Waspi women. Sir Keir also suffered a major backlash after raising inheritance tax on farms despite pledging to support rural voters. According to a recent poll, one in four Labour voters said they now regret the decision to back the party, while 56 per cent had a lower opinion of Sir Keir and his administration than they did on July 4. Deirdre Costigan, the new Labour MP for Ealing Southall, dismissed the petition as pointless and a waste of time. She channelled Brenda from Bristol, who became an unlikely star of the general election in 2017 after her outburst about Theresa Mays announcement. Ms Costigan said: What would Brenda from Bristol say about this petitions call for a general election? I think shed say not another one. And I think shed rightly say we should stop wasting our time debating pointless motions and get back to the hard work this Labour Government is doing of fixing the damage that Conservatives have done to our economy and to our public services. Brenda from Bristol would not be impressed, according to Deirdre Costigan, Labour MP for Ealing Southall Jamie Stone, the Lib Dem chair of the petitions committee, who led the debate, said: Can I put it very simply, an election cannot be called as a result of a petition. It simply cannot. It is a fact that on July 4 the Labour Party won a majority, and will remain in office for the duration of their term, that is a fact or until the Prime Minister seeks permission from the sovereign to dissolve Parliament at a time of his choosing. He added: It is the case, however, that the Government must, I would suggest, respectfully acknowledge the frustration of those who have signed the petition, and do their utmost to understand the motivation of these good people who signed the petition. Sub-postmasters gather outside the public inquiry into the Horizon affair - Eddie Mulholland Nationalisation is back on the agenda. Labour is busy completing it for the railways, and seeking something similar by the back door route of ever more detailed and intense government regulation of utility and energy businesses. They assert it will be better for employees and customers if the state controls more. The problem with this is it collides with the reality of nationalised industries. They have so often been bad employers, sacking and mistreating staff. They have been bad for customers, limiting and rationing service and using monopoly pricing power to overcharge, and bad for taxpayers who have to pay for all the losses and cost overruns. Just look at the way the Post Office, one of our leading nationalised concerns, has behaved for the whole of this century so far. The public has rightly become very angry over the cases of the many sub-postmasters wrongly accused of various crimes by the Post Office, based on data from the troubled Horizon IT system. The TV documentary which gave this disaster greater prominence finally gave rise to widespread calls for early payment of compensation. Yet still today, many people who had their businesses and reputations wrongly trashed wait as the Post Offices senior managers and its lawyers continue to live well as they administer complex and long-winded compensation schemes. Throughout the many years of this slow-building crisis the Post Office has always been nationalised. Imagine if it had been a privatised business that treated loyal staff so badly. There would have been many articles to demand urgent renationalisation, and much comment on the superior morality of public ownership. Instead nationalised status has blunted the criticisms of the top management, delayed redress and covered up a multitude of other features of weak and damaging misdirection of the business. It has permitted the Post Office to wrongly defend a hopeless position, regardless of the legal costs incurred, safe in the knowledge that the taxpayer would cover the enormous fees of its expensive lawyers. In recent years, in fact, the Post Office has racked up 1800 million of accumulated losses. Government and Parliament has failed to speak out against this mugging of taxpayers who have to pay for this. Much of it is trading loss. Management failed to find a new range of services to sell over the counters sufficient to pay the costs of the service, as traditional government business formerly done in Post Offices was retired to go online. They inherited a fine range of branches with plenty of footfall, only to lose custom so they needed a string of closures. They failed to build a large web based service harnessing the power of the name and the brand. In the latest accounts the Post Office reports that it needs to find an extra 72 million to pay costs of IR35 tax owing along with penalties. This special item implies that a well paid Finance Director and department was unable to follow the governments rules of taxing the self employed. Why? The company can only keep open its branches and continue in business thanks to the auditors assumption that the Treasury and taxpayers will send as much cash as the organisation needs to cover its losses and investments it wants to make. Any private sector company that was losing such huge sums would have fired the bosses and put in new management. If that failed, the company would be put into administration. In recent years, previous Post Office chief executives were paid large bonuses as they presided over the financial collapse of the group and failed to sort out the dreadful handling of staff. The group continues with a large computerisation programme which we are told accounted for most of last years 133m investment spend as they struggle to improve and rectify the botched investment in Horizon. Its no better in other nationalised industries. HS2 had become a legend for huge timetable and cost overruns, and the nationalised integrated rail groups have poor records for delays, cancellations and strikes. The Post Office is not alone amongst our present nationalised industries in letting down customers, upsetting employees and costing taxpayers a fortune. Its time the Government got a grip and demanded value for all those large salaries and bonuses. And it should learn the lesson offered by these various failing organisations: nationalisation is not, in most cases, a good idea at all. Andrew McIntyre created a Southport Wake Up channel on Telegram following the stabbing of three girls at a dance class - Merseyside Police/PA A Lancashire taxi driver became the catalyst for riots in Southport when he set up a social media account urging English lads to rise up, a court has heard. Andrew McIntyre, 39, was jailed for seven and a half years on Monday after pleading guilty to encouraging violent disorder in the Merseyside town last summer. Liverpool crown court heard that the taxi driver created a Southport Wake Up channel on Telegram following the stabbing of three girls at a dance class. Sentencing him, Judge Neil Flewitt KC said McIntyre was motivated by racial hatred and was a prominent figure behind the disorder. I have no doubt your actions encouraged many people to plan and then to commit offences of both violent disorder and criminal damage, he said. McIntyre, of Rufford, near Ormskirk, had previously pleaded guilty to encouraging violent disorder and criminal damage, and possession of a knife. Violent disorder broke out in Southport after the knife attack in July - Getty Images Arthur Gibson, prosecuting, said McIntyres Telegram channel had been identified as a catalyst for violence by Hope Not Hate, the campaign group. It is the prosecution case that many of these seats of disorder were not simply spontaneous, or that persons coincidentally simply decided to turn up and take part, he said. It is the Crowns case that others, to a greater or lesser degree, participated in the organisation, encouragement and incitement of such gatherings, which resulted in the disorder. It is the Crowns case that one such person is the defendant. The court heard McIntyre shared content from a site called Tommy Robinson/Britain First /For Britain about a protest in Southport on July 30. He also shared a map showing the location of a mosque and wrote another post saying: Rise Up English Lads. 8pm tomorrow St Lukes Rd Southport. Hours before violence broke out in Southport on July 30, he posted what was described as a clear threat to police, writing: Message to All ... Stand in our way, even if youre just doing your job ... prepare to fall. Another user on the channel responded: Well get to the mosque and rip it f---ing down. The court was told McIntyres phone was in the area of St Lukes Road in Southport at 7pm on July 30 and the car he was later arrested in was also in the area when the disorder took place. The day after the riots, McIntyre posted: Well done last night lads, to all you heavy hitters. McIntyre was working as a taxi driver when he was intercepted by police in Liverpool on Aug 8 and arrested, said Mr Gibson. A knife was found hidden in the boot of his car and, when his home was searched, officers found weapons and a copy of Hitlers Mein Kampf, the court heard. Mr Gibson said McIntyre refused to provide police with the PIN for his mobile telephone. Judge Flewitt said: The only reasonable inference is you knew, if interrogated, your mobile phone would reveal further evidence of your involvement in encouraging violent protests. Julian Nutter, defending, said McIntyre was a man of previous good character. Violence broke out across the country after three girls were killed in the Southport knife attack. Hours after the incident, rioters took to the streets after rumours that the killer was an asylum seeker spread online. Axel Muganwa Rudakubana, 18, has been charged with three counts of murder and 10 counts of attempted murder. He is also charged with producing the toxin ricin and possessing an al-Qaeda terrorism manual. A tech entrepreneur based in Los Angeles became trapped in a malfunctioning self-driving car for several minutes last month, causing him to nearly miss a flight, he said. Mike Johns was riding in an autonomous Waymo car on his way to Sky Harbor airport in Phoenix when the vehicle began driving around a parking lot repeatedly, circling eight times as he was on the phone seeking help from the company. I got my seat belt on. I cant get out of the car. Has this been hacked? Whats going on? he can be heard telling a Waymo representative in a video he posted to LinkedIn three weeks ago. I feel like Im in the movies. Is somebody playing a joke on me? And I got a flight to catch. Johns initially believed it was a prank, he told the Guardian. Having a lot of clever friends working in tech [I thought] maybe it was my friend, he said. But with the vehicle continuing to loop around an island in the lot, he knew there was a real problem. This car has a glitch. He became dizzy as it continued circling the lot in a moment that he said felt like a scene in a sci-fi thriller. The Waymo representative advised him to open his app as she tried to stop the vehicle, but said in the video she didnt have an option to control the car. The issue was resolved after a few minutes, Waymo said in a statement. He ultimately managed to catch his flight from Arizona to southern California, which he said was fortunately delayed. But he was frustrated about the experience and said he was unable to tell if the representative he spoke with was human or AI. Its just, again, a case of todays digital world. A half-baked product and nobody meeting the customer, the consumers, in the middle, Johns, who describes himself as a futurist who is knowledgable about artificial intelligence, told CBS Los Angeles. The experience was jarring, Johns said. I was stunned. It just further reminded me of the ghost in the machine. Youll hear people reference autonomous vehicles or driverless cars I will call it human-less cars. He had used Waymo once before and said his recent experience wouldnt deter him from using driverless cars in the future, but there were still things to work out. As a futurist, I feel like this is where everything is headed so you might as well get there first, Johns said. Its just we have glitches that need stitches. Waymo told the Guardian the looping event had been addressed by a regularly scheduled software update. Johns was not charged for the trip, the company said. The company offers autonomous ride services in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Phoenix and Austin, and provided more than 4m fully autonomous rides last year, according to Waymo. While the companys vehicles have performed millions of rides safely, high-profile incidents, including a self-driving Waymo car that killed a dog and a collision that injured a cyclist, have fueled concerns. For Johns, the experience has provided useful insight for a book he is writing on how artificial intelligence will affect jobs. I became my own case study, he said. Daniel Khalife escaped from HMP Wandsworth while awaiting trial on espionage charges - Metropolitan Police A 25-year-old man has been charged with assisting former soldier Daniel Khalife after the serviceman escaped from prison. Imran Chowdhury of Chingford, east London, is accused of helping Khalife after he broke out of HMP Wandsworth. Khalife tied himself to the underside of a food delivery truck in September 2023 to escape while awaiting trial on espionage charges. He was arrested after four days on the run and in November 2024, partway through his trial at Woolwich Crown Court, he pleaded guilty to absconding from the category B prison. Khalife was found guilty of spying for Iran but was cleared of carrying out a bomb hoax at his army barracks. He has yet to be sentenced. Prosecutors told Khalifes trial that the former soldier played a cynical game, claiming he wanted a career as a double agent to help the British intelligence services when in fact he gathered a very large body of restricted and classified material. Police described him as the ultimate Walter Mitty character that was having a significant impact on the real world. Dominic Murphy, head of the Metropolitan Polices Counter Terrorism Command said: Ego is a factor, Ive got no doubt hes got an uncanny ability to manipulate others. I think he probably enjoyed the thrill of deception throughout. Chowdhury was arrested in January 2024 and was charged in December via postal requisition with one count of assisting an escaped prisoner, the Metropolitan Police said. He is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on Tuesday. A 25-year-old woman who was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender in February 2024 will face no further action. Winner Abbie Stockard said she had been inspired by her mother - Willie J. Allen Jr./Orlando Sentinel A nursing student from Alabama has won Miss America and used her platform to urge Americas young adults to get back to work. Abbie Stockard, 22, on Sunday beat 51 other hopefuls to be crowned the winner at the annual pageant in Orlando, Florida, declaring she felt like the most celebrated girl in the world. When asked about employment, Ms Stockard, who won Miss Alabama last year, turned her attention to the declining amount of young people getting jobs following the Covid pandemic. She said: I believe we need to encourage those [people] to join the workforce, adapt to new skills and learn to grow in our current workforce and industries we have today. Meanwhile, the runner-up, Annette Addo-Yobo, who was the first foreign-born delegate to win Miss Texas, answered a question on immigration. She told the judges her parents arrived in the US from Ghana with two suitcases, a few hundred dollars and a little girl, which was me, in a fur coat. Last years winner Madison Marsh (left) crowns Abbie Stockard (centre) the new Miss America - Willie J. Allen Jr./Orlando Sentinel Ms Stockard, dressed in a white sequinned ball gown following her triumph, thanked her supporters and said she had been inspired by her mother, who she said worked multiple jobs. Women from every US state, as well as Washington DC and Puerto Rico, competed to win the events coveted tiara and $50,000 (40,000) prize money. The contest included a fitness portion, which replaced the swimwear show in 2023, as well as a private interview, evening wear and talent stage sections with performances including jazz dancing, slam poetry and a display of clogging. Stranded staff members and residents pose for a whole group photo on day three of isolation at the Tan Hill Inn. Photograph: Gary Calton/The Observer Day one: Saturday 4pm I have picked up the Guardian and Observer photographer Gary Calton on the way from Leeds to the Tan Hill Inn in North Yorkshire. This is a story Ive been hoping to cover for years and Im surprised its actually happening. We listen to the Spice Girls as we navigate the steep and winding Yorkshire Dales roads, arriving just before the sun sets. We settle in with half a pint of stout each and get chatting to the overwhelmingly friendly punters, many of whom are excited to see either the RagnBone Man tribute act or the Citroen 2CV car meet that is supposed to be happening tomorrow. 7.30pm The RagnBone Man act calls to say he wont be able to make it, followed by the Citroen 2CV car meet. 8.30pm The pub gets word that the main northern road, the A66, will be closed at 10.30pm. Anyone not planning to stay the night should leave. The Met Offices amber warning for snow is about to come into force and it is scheduled to last for two days. 9pm The Tan Hill Inn is ringing with laughter and everyone is in exceptionally good spirits. Conversations get deeper, confidences are shared, memories are made. There is a great deal of novelty to being snowed in at a pub and tonight we are all confident it will not wear off. 11.45pm At this point Im not sure whether were in a lock-in or whether were just locked in. Thankfully there are enough beds for everyone and there are plenty of strangers willing to share rooms. From our bunk room, I can hear a group of women from Durham having a sing-song in their camper van long into the night. Day two: Sunday 8am Breakfast is served in the room I was told the night before had been used as a morgue for the miners who died up here. The Tan Hill Inn has gone through various iterations but is now famous among hikers, cyclists and bikers. No sign of the Durham women yet. 10am Theres a lot of talk about people attempting to leave today. 1pm Much excitement as a snowplough comes through. A couple of groups including the impressively alert Durham women (though they leave the camper behind) try to leave in its wake, despite the fact some of the roads have sheer cliff edges and have not been gritted. The vast majority of us still have our faculties intact and decide not to even attempt it. 2pm Faculties come into question when I look out of the window to see a giant teddy bear cavorting with children on sledges. Other people can see him too. Apparently his name is Tan Hill Ted. 5pm Gary keeps talking about the time he spent 12 days on a submarine somewhere in the Mediterranean for a Guardian article. Im not sure what keeps reminding him of that. Louise and Gary Baker, who were waved off in their camper van earlier, have returned. Louise tells us it took two 4x4s to get them out of the snow and the whole time she was shaking. 7pm Headlights are approaching! Theres a knock on the door. In step Chelsey Frankland and Luke Batty, who have somehow managed to get here in a 4x4 from Doncaster. Silence falls as we stare at them, gobsmacked, reminiscent of that scene in the 1981 film An American Werewolf in London. In fact, its so like that scene that people often think it was filmed there. 10pm We are amazed the bar still has alcohol left. The jokes are almost all innuendo-based now. Day three: Monday 8.30am Today is Agatha the dogs birthday and shes eating a little bowl of chopped sausages for breakfast. Everybody who walks into the bar says Happy birthday, Agatha! and gives her a little pat on her silky head. Londoners Nathan Walker and Frederick Swift are staying in a glamping pod outside or the igloo, as it has become known and the manager, David Rowell, explains he had to dig them out this morning because they werent able to open the door. 10am The phone hasnt stopped ringing since yesterday with local, national and international press calling to speak to the Tan Hill Inns inhabitants. 12.30pm We gather outside the pub for a group picture which descends into a snowball fight. I get hit in the head by a snowball, which slithers inside my coat and down the back of my neck. I pretend to find it funny while secretly vowing to get revenge on the culprit. 2pm The snow appears to have stopped and for the first time were able to see how breathtaking the scenery is. A local farmer calls to say he has tried three times to get the snowplough out today but that it has been impossible. We prepare for our third night. Kelly Dunn, a member of the staff, is putting on an incredibly brave face. Tomorrow is her daughters 18th birthday. 4.15pm I learn that Barry Newitt from Southend is a rocknroll dancer and he offers to teach me some moves tonight. I hope he has steel toecaps, because I am not a graceful dancer. The staff have turned the barn into a cinema and theyve made us some popcorn. Perhaps well have a quieter night tonight. 4.30pm Paul Wright from Australia brings round a bottle of whisky. 5pm Anyone up for karaoke? This article was amended on 7 January 2025. An earlier version said that An American Werewolf in London was filmed at the Tan Hill Inn. The film was not shot in the pub, although its so similar many people mistake it for the same place. Linda De Sousa Abreu was given 15 months after pleading guilty to misconduct in public office last year. Photograph: Metropolitan police/PA A prison officer has been sentenced to 15 months after having sex with an inmate at a London jail. Linda De Sousa Abreu, 30, of Fulham, south-west London, was charged after a video of the activity was shared on social media. A police investigation was launched after officers were made aware of a video filmed inside HMP Wandsworth. In the footage, an inmate off-camera can be heard saying: This is how we live at Wandsworth, bruv. De Sousa Abreu appeared at Isleworth crown court on Monday, where she was sentenced to 15 months in prison. Judge Edmunds said: On 25 June 2024 you were on duty in uniform when you went to a cell with the prisoner. You took off your prison-issue radio and put it to one side. Your set of keys was at risk of being taken. A second prisoner was present and had a camera, doubtless on a phone which must have been an unauthorised phone. He also appears to have been smoking cannabis. Rather than challenge his possession of a phone or cannabis, you consented to him recording what was happening. The recording lasts some four and a half minutes, during which you gave the prisoner oral sex, then vaginal intercourse in a number of positions, before concluding by giving more oral sex. You participated with evident enthusiasm. The second prisoner recorded events and provided a commentary by way of encouragement, including saying: Guys we made history, This is how we live at Wandsworth, bruv and You know you are a gangsta. The indictment said De Sousa Abreu wilfully and without reasonable excuse or justification misconducted yourself in a way which amounted to an abuse of the publics trust in the office holder by engaging in a sexual act with a prisoner in a prison cell. De Sousa Abreu was arrested and pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office at Isleworth crown court in July last year. She was arrested at Heathrow airport as she was due to catch a flight to Madrid, having notified the prison of her travel plans. HMP Wandsworth has been called the worst prison in England and Wales, described as having inhumane conditions. In October, two prison officers at HMP Wandsworth were dismissed for joking about an inmates suicide on a WhatsApp group. After the 21-year-old prisoner killed himself, messages celebrating his death were posted on a group containing 27 members of staff employed at the south-west London jail. Tributes at the scene of a multi-car crash in Maryborough, Queensland, that killed two women and a teenage girl. Photograph: Rob Maccoll/AAP Queenslands attorney general has ordered state prosecutors to appeal against two manifestly inadequate sentences handed down for high-profile crimes committed in 2023. Deb Frecklington, also the states minister for justice and for integrity, said the two sentences in my view, fail to meet community expectations. Frecklington said she had instructed the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to lodge appeals against sentences for two 2023 crimes. The first appeal is in respect of a juvenile who crashed a stolen car near Maryborough in April 2023. This horrific incident killed three innocent people and left a fourth victim with serious injuries. The second appeal is in respect of Brock Andrew McDonald, in relation to the assault and deprivation of liberty of a young woman in October 2023. The victim had a rope put around her neck and was dragged into a car in the early hours of the morning on a Bundaberg street. I consider both sentences handed down to be manifestly inadequate. In the first case, a 13-year-old boy was driving a speeding stolen car that rear-ended another vehicle on Saltwater Creek Road at Maryborough, killing two women and a teenage girl. He was sentenced to six years in youth detention. Related: Danish king changes coat of arms amid row with Trump over Greenland In the second case, Brock Andrew McDonald, 44, pleaded guilty to charges of deprivation of liberty and assault occasioning bodily harm over a random attack on an 18-year-old woman in October 2023. McDonald approached the woman in a darkened Bundaberg Street at about 2.50am and wrapped a rope around her neck, before forcing her into the back of his car and pushing her head down. The woman escaped and called for help. Judge David Kent described the attack as a terrifying abduction and sentenced McDonald to two and half years in jail but released him on parole, taking into consideration 413 days incarceration already served. Queenslands Liberal-National government elected in October came to power on a platform pledging a series of reforms to address what it described as a youth crime crisis. It made a commitment to legislate for adult time for adult crime by dramatically increasing maximum sentences for youth crimes. Human rights groups argued that the reforms would not address the causes of youth crime and would disproportionately imprison Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, and children with disabilities. Frecklington conceded, in introducing the governments making Queensland safer bill in November that the legislation would directly discriminate against children by limiting their protection from cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. The governments tabled statement of compatibility with human rights also stated the laws would be expected to have a greater impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, who are already disproportionately represented in the criminal justice system. Failing Iranian state gives growing opportunity for regime change By Dr. Dan Diker web posted January 6, 2024 Iran is more vulnerable and desperate than at any time since its rise to power in 1979. Now is the time for Iranians to topple the regime and pave a pathway to a free, democratic, and unified state. Ali Khamenei meets with then-Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, in Tehran, May 30, 2024 In the late 1970s, Uri Lubrani, Israel's last ambassador to the Iranian court, and the legendary historian Prof. Bernard Lewis predicted the fall of the Shah of Iran Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. Prof. Lewis recounted that the shah, in a state of agitation, referring to the Jewish-dominated Western media, demanded that Lewis "tell your people to stop writing negatively about me." Lewis, with a historian's lens, saw the Shah's outburst as a signal of desperation that would foreshadow his downfall and the emergence of the Islamic regime. Lewis was correct, then and now. Forty-five years later, the Islamic regime's desperation to survive has fueled an unprecedented antisemitic discourse targeting Jews inside Iran. Previously, the regime had limited its antisemitic statements to Zionism and Zionists, avoiding attacking the Iranian Jewish community. However, his growing desperation, especially after the fall of its regional flagship terror proxy Hezbollah in November 2024, has fueled official regime Jew-hatred. Today, the regime spreads anti-Jewish tropes methodically. Over the past year, imams in several Iranian cities have delegitimized "the Jewish nation" in weekly Friday mosque sermons. Mosque hate speech has transferred into mainstream television programming. Religious leaders, military officials, intellectuals, artists, and celebrities have moved beyond "anti-Zionist" invective to anti-Jewish slander. The regime seeks to create a perception that the Iranian people as a whole support their anti-Jewish agenda. Examples abound. Mohammad Khazali, the son of a prominent ayatollah, in a recent debate, blamed Jews for regime woes. In another instance, the imam of the city of Qazvim, a Khamenei appointment, excoriated Jews on a regime prime-time television talk show, Throraya. He offered Koranic references to prove that Jews love money, are greedy, and should live in fear of their Muslim overlords. In yet another example, senior Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) member Gen. Mohammed Jafar Assadi said on the regime news station that the "cursed Jews" had wronged the entire Middle East since October 7. When the interviewer asked, "Don't you mean Zionists?" He replied, "No, there is no difference between them, they have done the worst things to their own prophets, it's known (from Koranic sources)." Iranian author Mohammed Taghi Zahedi further declared on prime-time television that the Jewish Purim holiday is "against Iranians and the Aryan race" and was "created to fabricate Jewish history and victimhood." Perhaps most consequentially, professional eulogizers who traditionally perform before official speeches referred to Jews as "infidels," and said they should "expect a plague from Ali's followers." This was before a major speech by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Iran's implosion As in 1979, regime antisemitism again appears as a predictor of its disintegration. The Iranian economy is crumbling. The rial has become one of the world's weakest currencies. Poverty and hunger abound, with food and medical production facilities shut down. Massive fuel shortages and power outages plague the country, with 17 electricity plants shut down. The presidential compound is blacked out. Businesses, schools, colleges, police stations, and government offices are shuttered. Iran's implosion is largely the result of its overextended one billion dollar per year proxy program for Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, now mostly neutralized. Iran's Syrian vassal in the Assad regime has collapsed. The Israeli military destruction of Iran's air defense system and other sensitive sites has added to regime vulnerability and desperation. Internally, public dissent has taken a toll on regime confidence. The regime's brutal crackdown on the "Women, Life, Freedom" movement following its murder of Mahsa Amini in September 2022 increased its repression, jailing, torture, and hangings of dissidents, indicating its fear of losing control. Khamenei has admitted as much. He took to social media to mask regime failures and vulnerabilities, stating "They say that the Islamic Republic has lost its proxies in the region. Islamic Republic doesn't have proxy forces. Yemen fights due to their faith. Hezbollah, Hamas, and Islamic Jihad fight because their beliefs compel them to do so." Khamenei, opining over his loss of Syria, also posted on X, "The #Syrian youth have nothing to lose. Their universities, schools, homes, and lives aren't safe. What can they do? They must stand with firm determination against those who have orchestrated and brought about this insecurity and God willing, they will prevail over them." Domestically, the mullahs continue to play on the public's deepest fears. They charge Israel and the United States with plotting to break up Iran into ethnic cantons. The regime has threatened its people, predicting that a denuded Iran would share the fate that befell the Libyans after the fall of Muammar Qaddafi and that of the Iraqi public after the fall of Saddam Hussein. Regime manipulation and antisemitism signal a last-ditch effort to mobilize the Iranian public against its vulnerable Jewish community. Iran is today naked, vulnerable, and more desperate than at any time since its rise to power in 1979. The Arab world views Israel and the incoming Trump administration as the strong horses of the Middle East. A resurgence of a US maximum pressure campaign can help tip the scale. Now is the time for the Iranian people to topple the regime and pave a new pathway to a free, democratic, and unified state. Dr. Dan Diker, President of the Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs, is the longtime Director of its Counter-Political Warfare Project. He is former Secretary-General of the World Jewish Congress and a Research Fellow of the International Institute for Counter Terrorism at Reichman University (formerly IDC, Herzliya). He has written six books exposing the "apartheid antisemitism" phenomenon in North America, and has authored studies on Iran's race for regional supremacy and Israel's need for defensible borders. Home Feltham A YOI was identified as the most violent prison in the country, with teenage inmates refusing family visits to keep their relatives away from danger. Photograph: Steve Parsons/PA Vulnerable children are being jailed many miles from their families at record levels, a Guardian investigation has found, prompting warnings that the government is breaking the law. The proportion of young people being detained in young offender institutions (YOIs) more than 100 miles from their home has doubled over the last decade to 15% the highest since its peak at the height of the Covid pandemic. More than one in 10 of the young people in custody in England are being held at least 75 miles from their families, the highest since the Ministry of Justice began publishing the figures in April 2015. The closure of youth custody centres has resulted in fewer children being held close to their families. Charities and experts say having children in custody close to their families lessens their likelihood of reoffending. Only 17% of the 530 young people in custody in England were remotely close to their homes in October, the lowest number on record. The vast majority 80% are held in violent and poorly run YOIs. The trend has got worse despite years of official warnings about its damaging impact on children from a series of bodies including Ofsted, HM Inspectorate of Prisons and parliaments spending watchdog. The National Association for Youth Justice (NAYJ) described the figures as another example of social injustice to the most vulnerable children and families in our country. Dr Samantha Burns, its deputy chair, said the government was failing to uphold its legal duty to maintain family relationships to those in custody, enshrined in the Children Act 1989. The majority of young people behind bars are known to be extremely vulnerable and have a range of complex needs, including mental health problems and special educational needs. The previous Conservative government promised to close all of Englands four YOIs and its one remaining secure training centre and replace them with smaller secure schools around the country, but only one of these has opened so far. Earlier this year, Scotland transferred all of its under-18s out of YOIs and placed them in more child-friendly settings. Rachel de Souza, the childrens commissioner, called for Keir Starmer to speed up the previous governments plan to replace all YOIs with smaller secure homes around the country, closer to childrens families. She said: Children in the youth justice system need stable, positive relationships in their lives, if we are serious about offering them a real chance for rehabilitation. Placing them many miles away from their families and homes, often in facilities where standards of care and safety fall woefully short, does not create the conditions for these children to become happy and successful adults. De Souza found in a report published in 2023 that more than half of children (55%) placed more than 100 miles from home received no in-person visit in a month, while 84% of children placed 24 miles or less from home received at least one in-person visit. She said without radical change children would continue being sent to live far from their families and would remain in facilities that perpetuate the cycle of violence and exploitation. A young offender institution in west London, Feltham A, was identified earlier this year as the most violent prison in the country, with teenage inmates refusing family visits to keep their relatives away from danger. Another YOI, Wetherby, has the highest rates of self-harm incidents of any prison in the country. YOIs are meant to offer at least 15 hours of education a week but a joint review by Ofsted and His Majestys Inspectorate of Prisons (HMIP), published in October, found that standards had been steadily declining for the last decade. The bodies said they were deeply concerned about the conditions faced by hundreds of the most vulnerable children in Britain. The number of children and young people in Englands youth custody estate fell to 525 in October, according to the latest official data, down from 1,085 in April 2015. The majority of those in custody 366 are held in one of four YOIs. There were 99 fewer spaces in the estate in August 2024 compared with the previous year. Gradual closure of YOIs means children are routinely being jailed many miles from home. James Simmonds-Read, prevention programme manager at the Childrens Society, said: These concerning new figures highlight serious issues in the youth justice system. He called for urgent, systemic change to the youth custody system, which he said was leaving children isolated, unsupported and at more risk of being exploited into further criminal activity. Simmonds-Read said: The impact on their emotional and mental health can be severe disconnection and inadequate care only compound the challenges they already face. Shauneen Lambe, a barrister and a director of the Youth Justice Legal Centre, said: The longer-term vision for these children is their reintegration back into society and that is going to be harder the further the kids are away from their parents and support networks. A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: The number of children in custody has significantly fallen with only those charged with the most serious offences now going to custody. While this dramatic reduction is positive it means there are now fewer youth custody sites for the 440 children remaining. Decisions about where to place children are carefully made on an individual basis considering their risks and needs, and maintaining childrens ties with their family, wherever they are placed, is a priority. Nicolas Sarkozy arrives at court over claims he would help to end Gaddafis pariah status in exchange for money - Thibault Camus/AP Nicolas Sarkozy is standing trial on charges of sealing a pact of corruption with Muammar Gaddafi in which the French ex-president received tens of millions of euros from the late Libyan dictator. It is alleged Mr Sarkozy received funds via suitcases of cash to finance his successful 2007 French presidential campaign. In exchange he would help end Gaddafis pariah status after the Lockerbie bombing and other attacks. Sarkozy, 69, who remains influential and reportedly sometimes advises president Emmanuel Macron, appeared in court in person on Monday, confirming his date of birth and current profession of lawyer. President from 2007 to 2012, Mr Sarkozy has been convicted in two cases, and will, starting in April, have to wear an electronic bracelet for a year. He has been charged in another case and is being investigated in connection with two more. However, the Sarkozy-Gaddafi affair is considered the most explosive. It is the first time that a former French head of state has been charged with criminal conspiracy with a foreign government since the Second World War. Mr Sarkozy is to stand trial alongside 12 others accused of criminal conspiracy - Patrick Hertzog/Reuters Mr Sarkozy faces a ten-year prison term if found guilty under the charges of concealing embezzlement of public funds and illegal campaign financing. The inquiry began after Mediapart, an investigative website, published a document suggesting that Mr Gaddafi had agreed to give Sarkozy up to 50 million for his successful 2007 presidential election campaign. Ziad Takieddine, a French-Lebanese arms dealer, told prosecutors that he had arranged for millions of dollars from Mr Gaddafi to be paid to Mr Sarkozy for the electoral race. Mr Takieddine, 74, is an uncle of Amal Clooney, the British lawyer who is married to George Clooney. The prosecutors say the money was paid after Mr Sarkozys aides promised steps to end Libyas international isolation after Tripoli was blamed for bombing attacks on Pan Am Flight 103 in 1988 over Lockerbie in Scotland and UTA Flight 772 in 1989 that killed hundreds of passengers. According to the prosecutors, they promised to drop a French warrant against Mr Gaddafis brother-in-law, Abdullah al-Senussi, who was convicted in his absence by a court in Paris of organising the UTA bombing, in which 170 people died. Nicolas Sarkozy is alleged to have accepted money from Muammar Gaddafi - Patrick Kovarik/AFP/Getty Mr Takieddines British ex-wife Nicola Johnson told judges she had witnessed conversations between her ex-husband and a Sarkozy aide about al-Senussis conviction and how to get him out of this affair. After Mr Sarkozy was elected in 2007, he received Mr Gaddafi with pomp in Paris, and the former strongman was even allowed to pitch a tent near the Elysee. But Mr Sarkozy later spearheaded international military action against his regime in 2011 along with David Cameron and Barack Obama, which led to the dictator being toppled and killed. As Le Monde put it on Monday: The bombings did not help the recovery of the regimes archives. Mr Sarkozy has denounced the accusations as a prosecutors fantasy and part of a conspiracy against him, insisting that he never received any financing for the campaign from Mr Gaddafi and that there is no evidence of any such transfer. Mr Sarkozy is awaiting these four months of hearings with determination. He will fight the artificial construction dreamed up by the prosecution. There was no Libyan financing of the campaign, said his lawyer Christophe Ingrain. Ziad Takieddine told prosecutors that he arranged for millions of dollars to be paid from Gaddafi to Sarkozy - PHILIPPE LOPEZ/AFP However, in their indictment investigating judges write that a series of converging testimonies from former Libyan dignitaries attest that Nicolas Sarkozy, during his trip to Libya in October 2005, solicited secret financial support from Muammar Gaddafi for the 2007 presidential campaign. Mr Gaddafis son Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, told judges that Mr Sarkozys right-hand man, Claude Gueant, travelled in person in 2005 to receive a sum of 2 million in a suitcase that was so full he climbed on top of it, pressing down with his feet to close it. Jean-Francois Bohnert, the public prosecutor, said on Monday: We now have proof on file that a total of 6 million left Libyan public funds and arrived in France via intermediaries. Among 12 others facing trial over the alleged Libyan financing are heavyweights such as Mr Gueant, his then-head of campaign financing, Eric Woerth, and former minister Brice Hortefeux. All of them except Mr Woerth are facing 10 years imprisonment and major fines, and all contest the charges. Four are being tried in absentia and are the subject of an international arrest warrant: Mr Takieddine, Saudi Arabian alleged intermediary Khaled Bugshan, a Malaysian lawyer, who financial prosecutors suspect has in fact been dead for three years, and former Gaddafi chief of staff Bechir Saleh. Nicolas Sarkozy shakes hands with a police officer as he arrives in court - Thibault Camus/AP Shukri Ghanem, Mr Gaddafis former oil minister, had written in his notebooks that Mr Saleh had told him he had sent 1.5 million to Mr Sarkozy and that another 3 million had been sent from his son Saif to the then president. However, he is no longer able to explain his notes, as he was found drowned in the Danube, in Vienna, in 2012. The official cause of death was heart attack. Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, the French ex-presidents wife, has separately been charged with involvement in an alleged plot, dubbed Operation Save Sarko, to derail her former husbands prosecution. One defendant, Alexandre Djouhri, a French-Algerian businessman, was arrested at Heathrow Airport in 2018 and later extradited to France. Another, Mr Takieddine, who introduced Mr Sarkozy to Gaddafi, told Mediapart in 2016 that he had carried three suitcases stuffed with cash from Libya to Paris, personally handing over 5 million intended for Mr Sarkozys campaign to his then chief of staff and later interior minister Mr Gueant in 2006 and 2007. Mr Takieddines ex-wife, Ms Johnson, told judges that she had witnessed conversations. Four years ago, in Paris Match magazine, Mr Takieddine retracted all his claims of Libyan financing. Prosecutors allege that he was paid to retract by Mimi Marchand, a Paris media fixer known as the paparazzi queen, who is a friend of Ms Bruni-Sarkozy. Ms Marchand, 77, was also closely involved in Mr Macrons 2017 election campaign. Preliminary charges have been laid against Ms Marchand and Ms Bruni-Sarkozy but prosecutors and examining judges have yet to rule whether or not to send the so-called Save Sarko case to court. The trial runs until April 10. The tawny owl was rescued after two days in the flue - KennyBest/BNPS A soot-covered owl was rescued over Christmas after getting stuck inside a log burner at a holiday home. The tenants raised the alarm after hearing scratching inside the flue which went on for two days. A pest control expert and log burner specialist went to the historic property in Upwey, Weymouth, Dorset to investigate. They expected to find a jackdaw but after dismantling the stove discovered a tawny owl covered in soot near the bottom of the 15ft flue. After 15 minutes of trying, they managed to get hold of the owls talons and carefully pull it down. The owl had its eyes closed from the soot, which had hidden its brown-grey feathers. The soot was washed out of its eyes and it is being nursed back to health by a local wildlife conservationist. Kenny Best, of Best Pest Control, carried out the rescue of the owl now named Sooty alongside Richie Gray, of Log Burners Dorset. Kenny Best and the owl, now called Sooty, he rescued - KennyBest/BNPS Mr Best said: The holiday homes company had tenants in the property over Christmas who said they could hear scratching in the flue for a couple of days. They called me and I went along thinking it would be a jackdaw, and because it was a log burner, I called Richie to help. It is an out of commission log burner in a historic property. We had to dismantle the stove and then I saw this pair of feet and thought: Thats not a jackdaw. We spent around 15 minutes trying to get a hold of its feet they have got big talons and then we managed to pull it down. Derek Davey, the wildlife conservationist, said: The owl came in at the start of the week after being rescued from a log burner flue. It was covered in soot and could not open its eyes, but after a good clean-up and eye wash its looking a lot happier and eating well. The tawny owl, Latin name Strix aluco, is a nocturnal woodland hunter, with a rounded head, large dark eyes and a hooked beak. Sir Keir Starmer and Wes Streeting at the Three Counties Medical School in Worcester during the election campaign - Christopher Furlong/Getty Images Sir Keir Starmer has insisted he is fighting every day to deliver on his promises in an effort to reset his premiership by switching focus to the NHS. Writing in The Times, the Prime Minister said: The NHS exhibits all the symptoms of chronic illness caused by the Conservative governments choices. He added that he will drag care out of the hospital and into the community and will use a major speech to promise patients millions more appointments closer to home in an attempt to clear hospital backlogs. But he will only promise to ensure that 65 per cent of patients are treated within 18 weeks by the end of next year, well short of the 92 per cent target set for the health service. The speech on Monday will come after a turbulent first six months in office which has prompted speculation about Sir Keirs long-term future in No 10. He will attempt to put his premiership on a more stable footing by turning to Labours pre-election promise to dramatically slash waiting lists. Sir Keir will outline a plan which includes expanded use of community diagnostic centres so people do not have to go to hospital for routine tests. The Prime Minister said on Sunday: This Government promised change and that is what I am fighting every day to deliver. NHS backlogs have ballooned in recent years, leaving millions of patients languishing on waiting lists, often in pain or fear. Lives on hold. Potential unfulfilled. This elective reform plan will deliver on our promise to end the backlogs. Millions more appointments. Greater choice and convenience for patients. Staff once again able to give the standard of care they desperately want to. This is a key plank of our Plan for Change, which will drive growth that puts more money in peoples pockets, secures our borders and makes the NHS fit for the future so that working people live longer, healthier, more prosperous lives. Sir Keir Starmer and Mr Streeting met patients and staff at Bassetlaw Hospital in Nottinghamshire before the election - Stefan Rousseau/PA The NHS backlog hit a record 7.5 million people in October as the health service continues to struggle with the fallout from the Covid pandemic. Sir Keir will say that the Government aims to deliver 40,000 extra medical appointments every week and two million in total in its first year. He will set out plans which will see those hospitals which are quickest to slash their waiting lists handed more money for capital projects like new buildings. Under the plans the NHS will also give out more wearable technology, like smartwatches, which can monitor peoples health data without the need for a GP appointment. Meanwhile, GPs will be given 20 every time they discuss with specialists how to treat patients outside of hospital to cut down on unnecessary appointments. Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, said the changes would mean that patients can arrange tests and scans while out doing their weekend shopping. He said: We inherited record-long waiting lists, impacting patients lives and their livelihoods. Only the combination of investment and radical reform can turn this around, as were setting out today. The NHS should work around patients lives, not the other way around. By opening community diagnostic centres on high streets 12 hours a day, seven days a week, patients will now be able to arrange their tests and scans for when they go to do their weekend shopping, rather than being forced to take time out of work. The reforms were launching will free up millions of appointments, so the NHS can be there for us when we need it once again. Ed Argar, the shadow health secretary, said: The Conservatives revolutionised the diagnostic process for patients by rolling out 160 community diagnostic centres, delivering over nine million scans, tests, and checks so it is positive news the Government are building on our foundations. But this is another announcement that makes clear after 14 years in opposition, the Labour Party have no new ideas of their own for the NHS despite promising change. Patients cannot wait for more dither and delay from the Government who promised so much, and so far have delivered so little. Sir Keir Starmer at an event to launch Labours election pledges last May - Leon Neal/Getty Images No 10 will be hoping that the speech will move domestic focus onto the health service and away from controversies that have besieged the Government. Sir Keirs first six months have seen him battle last summers race riots, the freebies scandal and a fierce backlash to his Chagos Islands deal. But a growing row over Labours refusal to order an inquiry into grooming gangs has threatened to overshadow the keynote address. The Prime Minister has come under increasingly ferocious attack from Elon Musk, the owner of X, which has diverted attention away from his agenda. First minister John Swinneys Scottish National party runs a minority government. Photograph: Jane Barlow/PA John Swinney, Scotlands first minister, will warn opposition parties that they will fuel populist forces if they prevent his budget from being passed this month. In a keynote speech in Edinburgh on Monday to mark the new year, Swinney will say Scottish voters would be astonished and public services damaged if MSPs fail to allow the budget to go through. We do not have to look far beyond Scotlands shores to see what happens when politicians and political parties pursue stalemates instead of progress and delivery, he is expected to say. It feeds cynicism and disillusion. If people do not see Scotlands parliament delivering progress for Scotlands people if instead it embarks down a path of political posturing and intransigence then we run a real risk of feeding the forces of anti-politics and of populism. Swinneys Scottish National party runs a minority government after his predecessor, Humza Yousaf, collapsed a power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens. It has 62 MSPs, three short of a majority. His remarks were met by derision from opposition parties, who had been briefed on the speech in advance. They said there was no risk the budget, boosted by a record Treasury grant that Labour estimates is worth 5.2bn, would be blocked. A senior Scottish Labour source said Swinney was creating a false narrative because both the Lib Dems, with four MSPs, and Greens, with seven, had agreed to abstain. That meant the budget would be passed. Swinney is playing games, the source said. His budget is already through; its irrelevant what everybody else does. Ross Greer, a Scottish Greens MSP, indicated they were already satisfied with some of Swinneys budget decisions and had enjoyed constructive discussions with ministers. This hugely overblown rhetoric from the first minister is a disappointing way to start the new year, Greer said. Anas Sarwar, the Scottish Labour leader, is expected to rebut Swinneys assertions during a speech in Glasgow also scheduled for Monday morning, intended to revitalise Labours faltering campaign to win the Holyrood elections in May 2026. The SNPs popularity has soared since Swinneys draft budget was presented in December; the Treasurys largesse has allowed the SNP to promise to end the two-child benefit cap and restore universal winter fuel payments for pensioners. Sarwar will assert that in fact Scotland is stagnating after 17 years of SNP government, which uses a growing bureaucratic monster made up of 131 quangos that spent 6.6bn a year. Politicians must stop making excuses and passing the buck they must take responsibility, he is expected to say. No 10 confirmed Tulip Siddiq has referred herself to the Prime Ministers Independent Adviser on Ministers Interests - Nicola Tree Tulip Siddiq has referred herself to the Prime Ministers ethics adviser over allegations surrounding her use of properties in London. The City minister, responsible for tackling corruption in the UK financial sector, has referred herself to the Independent Adviser on Ministers Interests, No 10 confirmed on Monday. Ms Siddiq had been due to join a Treasury delegation heading to China this week, but will now stay in Britain. A source said: Tulip wants to be in the UK so she is available to assist the independent adviser on ministerial standards. Sir Laurie Magnus, who advises Sir Keir Starmer on enforcing the ministerial code, will now look into claims about her past use of two flats in London.One, in Hampstead, north London, was given to her to use by her teenage sister Azmina. The sisters are nieces to Sheikh Hasina, the authoritarian former prime minister of Bangladesh, who was removed from power last year after uprisings against her rule. The other property, in central London, was reportedly given to Ms Siddiq by a businessman linked to her aunts political party, the Awami League. I am clear I have done nothing wrong The revelations about the London flats came after it emerged last month that Ms Siddiq and four family members were being investigated by Bangladeshs anti-corruption commission over allegations of embezzlement. In a letter to Sir Laurie, Ms Siddiq wrote: In recent weeks I have been the subject of media reporting, much of it inaccurate, about my financial affairs and my familys links to the former government of Bangladesh. I am clear that I have done nothing wrong. However, for the avoidance of doubt, I would like you to independently establish the facts about these matters. I will obviously ensure you have all the information you need to do this. Tory MPs have called for Sir Laurie to look into the way Ms Siddiqs family acquired the apartment in central London. The Treasury minister initially said her parents bought the two-bedroom flat, in which she lived before becoming an MP, according to The Mail on Sunday. But last week Labour sources said that the property had actually been given as a gift to Ms Siddiqs parents by an acquaintance. It was reportedly bought by Abdul Motalif, a Bangladeshi national with links to the political party run by Ms Hasina before she was ousted as the countrys prime minister in August 2024. During her tenure, opponents were attacked, arrested and secretly imprisoned as the regime carried out extra-judicial killings. The other property, in Hampstead, was also reportedly given to Ms Siddiqs family by an ally of her aunt. Ive got confidence in her Moin Ghani, a Bangladeshi lawyer who has represented Ms Hasinas government and has been pictured with the former prime minister, handed the flat to Ms Siddiqs sister Azmina in 2009, according to The Sunday Times. Land Registry documents state that the transfer was not for money or anything that has a monetary value. Azmina was 18 at the time and about to begin studies at Oxford University. While Sir Laurie can advise Sir Keir on whether Ms Siddiq has broken the ministerial code, it is up to the Prime Minister to decide whether she should remain in post. The Labour leader will come under pressure to take a zero-tolerance approach to rule-breaking given that he has pledged to clean up politics from Downing Street. Sir Keir said Ms Siddiq had acted entirely properly by making the referral and said he still had confidence in her, despite calls for her to resign. Asked on Monday about allegations surrounding her properties, he said: Tulip Siddiq has acted entirely properly by referring herself to the independent adviser, and thats why we brought into being the new code. Its to allow ministers to ask the adviser to establish the facts, and yes Ive got confidence in her, and thats the process that will now be happening. Matt Vickers, the shadow home office minister, said: It is disappointing that Keir Starmer has allowed scandal in his Government to overshadow todays announcement. There are clear questions for his friend and anti-corruption minister Tulip Siddiq to answer about allegations made about her. She must be held to the same standards as other ministers in his Government. Indications so far show that that may not be the case. HMS Westminster watches Cruiser Marshal Ustinov in waters close to the UK - Royal Navy/MoD/PA A new AI computer programme that can detect Russias shadow fleet has been launched by the UK. The Nordic Warden system, co-ordinated from Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) operational headquarters in Northwood, London, will track potential threats to undersea infrastructure and monitor the Russian shadow fleet. Currently 22 areas of interest, including parts of the English Channel, North Sea, Baltic Sea and Kattegat, between Denmark and Sweden, are being monitored by the system. Damage was caused to the Estlink 2 undersea power cable in the Baltic Sea at the end of December 2024. Finnish authorities suggested it may have been caused by a tanker from Russias shadow fleet of vessels which it uses to attempt to bypass international sanctions. Afterwards Nato confirmed it would boost its presence in the Baltic Sea. Nations in the region have been on high alert for attacks after a string of outages of power cables, telecom links and gas pipelines since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. Nordic Warden works by harnessing AI to assess data from sources including the Automatic Identification System ships use to broadcast their position, to calculate the risk posed by each vessel entering areas of interest. John Healey, the Defence Secretary, said: The UK and JEF are leading the way - Stefan Rousseau/Reuters Specific vessels identified as being part of Russias shadow fleet have been registered on the system so they can be closely monitored when approaching key areas of interest. If a potential risk is assessed, the system will monitor the suspicious vessel in real time and send out a warning, which will be shared with the 10 JEF participant nations as well as Nato allies. The JEF partner nations include Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Netherlands, Sweden and the UK as the framework nation. A defence source added that the new computer system would make for a quicker and better result when protecting European seas. You could have had people scanning a map constantly to see if a Russian ship was approaching, but this system effectively automates that process, makes it quicker and less hours of effort to get a better result, he said. Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, said: Growth and national security are vital to our Plan for Change, which is why this Government is working closely with our allies to protect critical national infrastructure, such as undersea cables. I am pleased we are launching this cutting-edge technology so soon after the JEF summit to enhance European security. Monitor large areas of sea John Healey, the Defence Secretary, said: The UK and JEF are leading the way in providing support to our allies to help safeguard the offshore infrastructure we all rely on against potential threats. Operation Nordic Warden will help protect against both deliberate acts of sabotage as well as cases of extreme negligence which we have seen cause damage to underwater cables. He added: Harnessing the power of AI, this UK-led system is a major innovation which allows us the unprecedented ability to monitor large areas of the sea with a comparatively small number of resources, helping us stay secure at home and strong abroad. Nordic Warden was first trialled during summer 2024 and again during the JEFs Exercise Joint Protector, where more than 300 UK personnel were deployed to Latvia to demonstrate the ability of the UK to deploy its operational headquarters for JEF abroad at short notice. The Ministry of Defence said that Mondays announcement complemented December 2024s agreement between the UK, Denmark, Sweden, Poland, Finland and Estonia to request proof of insurance from suspected shadow vessels as they passed along the Baltic route. In response to the Estlink2 damage, a joint statement from the JEF members said: This is another example of maritime incidents causing direct economic and security implications for Finland and Estonia, highlighting the risks to vital communication and energy networks essential for the security and prosperity of all our nations. The JEF commends Finland and Estonia for their decisive actions in dealing with the incident. We remain committed to safeguarding our shared interests and regional stability. The Vivienne at RuPauls DragCon UK 2020 at Olympia in London - Lia Toby/Getty Images James Lee Williams, better known as The Vivienne, who has died suddenly aged 32, was the first winner of the reality television show Ru Pauls Drag Race UK, which was instrumental in revivifying the drag-queen genre in Britain; going by the pronouns they and them, Williams went on to appear in Dancing on Ice, as well as playing the Wicked Witch of the West and the Child Catcher in touring musicals. Since the heady days of Danny La Rue the drag phenomenon had been kept alive in Britain largely by the efforts of Paul OGrady and his caustically witty creation, Lily Savage. Ru Pauls Drag Race began life in the US in 2009, spinning its franchise web around the world and hitting British screens in 2019, when The Vivienne proved a popular winner ahead of Divina de Campo, Baga Chipz and Cheryl Hole. The Vivienne described their drag style as like a Scouse wife whos come into money, she moved to LA, she blew it all and then shes had to move back to Bootle. James Lee Williams, of Roma heritage, was born in Colwyn Bay, north Wales, on April 12 1992, and attended the private Methodist Rydal Penrhos School there (later returning to the school to help out in a production of The Wizard of Oz). Williams first exposure to drag was watching Lily Savage on television. Williams moved to Liverpool aged 16, seeking work as a make-up artist and becoming an enthusiastic denizen of the citys club scene. They began working as a drag queen, taking the name The Vivienne from their devotion to the designer Vivienne Westwood. Working in such night spots as Superstar Boudoir, where Williams was the resident DJ, they became a leading light of Merseyside clubland, and in 2015, when the American Ru Pauls Drag Race was first shown in Britain, The Vivienne won a competition to be named as the shows UK ambassador, saying afterwards: I was so nervous, because if you put 21 drag queens in a room things can get quite tense. The Vivienne in a publicity shot for Ru Pauls Drag Race UK in 2019 - Leigh Keily The new role gave The Vivienne doyen status on the British drag scene, and when Ru Pauls Drag Race UK was launched in 2019 the performer was one of the favourites for the weekly round of tasks in such areas as fashion design and stand-up giving an expert impersonation of Donald Trump and sealed victory with a high-energy lip-sync rendition of the Wham! hit Im Your Man. That crown is going to look gorgeous, they said. I can see me washing the dishes in it. The Vivienne appeared on the subsequent live tour, then in 2023 partnered the ice-skating professional Colin Grafton to third place on Dancing on Ice. There were also appearances as the Wicked Witch of the West and the Child Catcher in the touring musicals The Wizard of Oz and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Those performances led to Williams being named Celebmix Breakout Artist of the Year. Accepting the award, they said: I stepped into the musical theatre world a lost person, and suddenly I was found. With Ru Paul at Olympia in 2020 - Karwai Tang/WireImage A few days before Williamss death, they were trolled online after appearing on the Christmas edition of Blankety Blank (the quiz show which was hosted for many years by Paul OGrady, Williamss drag inspiration). No stranger to homophobia, in 2022 Williams was punched in the face by a scaffolder in Liverpool in an attack the magistrate called appalling. After the Drag Race UK triumph, Williams spoke candidly of struggles with drug addiction after becoming hooked on ketamine while working in the clubs of Liverpool: It was party drugs, but I couldnt leave the drugs at the party. In 2018 they decamped to Gran Canaria to try to kick the habit, then underwent therapy at a rehab clinic back in Liverpool. In 2019, at Heaven, the gay night club in London, James Lee Williams married David Ludford, who runs a company selling wigs to drag queens; they parted in 2023 but remained close friends. James Lee Williams, born April 12 1992, died January 5 2025 Elon Musk has made a number of unsubstantiated claims on X and said the British PM should be jailed. Photograph: Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto/Rex/Shutterstock Elon Musk has reignited a political row about gangs of men who groomed and raped girls in England over several decades. In the past week the tech billionaire has shared a flurry of posts on his social media platform X accusing Keir Starmer and other senior politicians of covering up the scandal. Related:Trolling the UK: the issues enraging Elon Musk, worlds richest pub bore It is the latest intervention by the SpaceX founder in UK political affairs, and his most incendiary yet even triggering calls for Starmer to sue for defamation. On Monday the prime minister hit back at those spreading lies and misinformation and said theyre not interested in victims, theyre interested in themselves. What is the grooming scandal? Prosecutions for grooming and sexual abuse of young girls in England began in 2010, and the number of known victims is in the thousands. The northern towns of Rochdale, Oldham and Rotherham were at the centre of the scandal. In 2014, a landmark inquiry into the abuse in Rotherham by Prof Alexis Jay came to the conservative estimate that 1,400 children had been exploited there between 1997 and 2013, predominantly by men of Pakistani heritage. In 2022, Jay concluded a prolonged national inquiry into child sexual abuse which warned it was endemic across England and Wales. What has Musk said about it? Musk has made a number of unsubstantiated claims about the scandal on X, claiming that Starmer is complicit and should go to prison. He has also taken aim at Gordon Brown on the basis of a supposed Home Office memo sent to police forces during his premiership, telling them not to investigate alleged abuse because young girls had made a choice about their sexual behaviour. The basis for this claim appears to be a BBC radio interview in 2018 with Nazir Afzal, the former chief prosecutor for north-west England who brought nine of the perpetrators to justice in 2012. Afzal clarified on X that he had been referring to some officers incorrectly interpreting part of a Home Office circular in 2008, which was drafted by officials not ministers, as permitting them to allow a child, past the age of puberty, to continue engaging in sexual activity where the officer perceived them to understand dangers. In a separate post Afzal stressed that there was NEVER any circular or guidance specifically on child rape gangs or grooming gangs. Musk and the Conservative leader, Kemi Badenoch, have called for a fresh national inquiry, but Afzal and Jay have both said ministers should implement the recommendations of the 2022 inquiry instead. What was Starmers role in tackling the scandal? Starmer ran the Crown Prosecution Service between 2008 and 2013, meaning he was responsible for bringing charges for alleged crimes in England and Wales. In 2009, nine months after Starmer took up the role, a decision was taken not to prosecute alleged perpetrators in Rochdale. CPS lawyers argued that the victim would not come across as reliable or credible. There is no evidence that Starmer was made aware of the details of the case, but nonetheless Musk has claimed that Starmer must go and he must face charges for his complicity in the worst mass crime in the history of Britain. In 2011, Afzal, the then new chief prosecutor for north-west England, overturned the 2009 CPS decision. Nine men were ultimately convicted and jailed in 2012 for the sexual exploitation of 47 girls. Afzal said in 2022: The only way we could bring that case was to admit that we had failed these victims when they had first made a complaint in 2008. Keir was 100% behind the decision to publicly admit that we had got it wrong in the past. In 2013, Starmer revised CPS procedures on how prosecutors should deal with grooming cases in an effort to ensure that victims would not be dismissed in the future. Afzal later said: Keir left in 2013, the CPS having gone from being dire at doing sex-abuse cases to having the highest conviction rate in our history. That wouldnt have been possible without the support, resources and the protection I was given by Keir, at a time when it would have been easier to give up. Musk claimed on Monday that Starmer repeatedly ignored the pleas of vast numbers of little girls and their parents, in order to secure political support, even though he did not become a politician until 2015. Was there a cover-up? Successive inquiries have concluded that police officers, social services and councils failed victims, but there is no evidence of any organised cover-up. Jays landmark report on Rotherham found blatant collective failures by the police and council. One of the later trials in 2016 found four men, three brothers Arshid, Basharat and Bannaras Hussain and their uncle Qurban Ali, guilty of 48 offences. The court heard about the failure by the local authority in Rotherham tasked with child safeguarding and police to act on detailed information passed to them. One of the victims in the trial had testified that her parents had constantly made complaints to the police about the man who groomed her but they did nothing because she would not give a statement. They even caught me in bed with him, but let the perpetrator go, she told the court. Whistleblower Adele Gladman, a solicitor who worked with a youth project, pinpointed what was happening as far back as 2001, but said her concerns were repeatedly dismissed by police as anecdotal. When she submitted her report to South Yorkshire police, the feedback she got was that it was unhelpful. Why is Musk getting involved? Musk, who is lined up for a senior role in Donald Trumps administration and has been described by Nigel Farage as a free speech absolutist, has pursued something of a vendetta against Starmer since the start of his premiership in the summer. The SpaceX founder took a dim view of Starmers robust response to the riots that broke out in response to a stabbing attack against young girls in Southport in late July. In the last week, Musk has shared posts claiming people convicted of sharing extreme rightwing material online have been given harsher sentences than perpetrators of the grooming scandal. Increased use of the NHS app will free up the phone line for older people who lack digital skills, Wes Streeting has said. The Health Secretary was quizzed by Liberal Democrat health spokesperson Helen Morgan who raised the issue that elderly people are the most likely to need to access NHS services, but are also the least likely to have the internet access and digital skills required to do. In plans published on Monday designed to slash the number of people waiting longer than 18 weeks for NHS treatment in England by nearly half a million over the next year, the Government will aim for 85% of acute NHS trusts to enable patients to view appointment information via the NHS app by the end of March this year. The Reforming Elective Care for Patients document states that by March 2027, the NHS app will also be significantly expanded to improve information for patients in elective care, while the app and Manage Your Referral website will become the default route by which patients choose where they wish to be treated. Health Secretary Wes Streeting (Leon Neal/PA) During a statement on health and social care reform in the House of Commons, Ms Morgan said her North Shropshire constituency contains a far more than average number of elderly constituents, who are the people most likely to need the NHS. She told MPs: According to Age UK, around 29% of people aged 75 and over dont use the internet and around a third dont have a smartphone. They deserve as much choice and control as everybody else. So can the Secretary of State outline how those without access to the NHS app will be able to benefit from the same options and informations as those who do have access? In his reply, Mr Streeting said: (Ms Morgan) talked about patient choice for those who are digitally disconnected or dont want to organise their lives around their smartphones, thats why I believe very strongly in choice different courses for different horses. If Im booking my appointments over the phone, that frees up the phone line for people who want to get through and would prefer to do their business and book their appointments over the phone. Liberal Democrat health spokesperson Helen Morgan (Jacob King/PA) Elsewhere in the session, Conservative MP Sir Edward Leigh encouraged Mr Streeting to tell the truth to the public about the sheer unaffordability of adult social care, referring to the Dilnot Cap. Last summer, Chancellor Rachel Reeves scrapped proposals from Sir Andrew Dilnot, whose findings had been accepted by the previous government. The plan would have introduced an 86,000 cap on the amount an older or disabled person would have to pay towards their support at home or in care homes. The Father of the House questioned whether MPs, including the previous Conservative government, have been entirely honest with the public about the sheer unaffordability of the Dilnot cap, as he urged the current Government to start telling the truth. He said: I wonder whether the Secretary of State thinks that we need a new social compact on bringing in social insurance so that people can plan for their entire life and they will know that they will have to pay more in taxes during their life for their old age, but they at least will have certain rights. Mr Streeting replied: I think (Sir Edward) is right to say that we do need a debate as a country about the balance of financial contribution between the individual, the family, and the state. I well understand why David Cameron was so concerned about the issue of catastrophic care costs and people having to sell their homes and to pay for their care, and the problem he was trying to solve, but weve seen with every government since that issue is not seen as urgent as others. That doesnt mean it doesnt matter, and it doesnt mean we shouldnt consider it as part of the Casey commission, but we need to consider all of these issues in the round and as much as we can build a consensus, not just in this House but throughout the country, about the balance of financial contribution, whats fair, whats equitable, and whats sustainable. New York's anti-fossil fuel shakedown could spread to other states By Bonner Cohen web posted January 6, 2024 Under the guise of climate remediation, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) signed a bill into law Dec. 27 that will allow the state to fine oil and natural gas companies a total of $75 billion over the next 25 years for their alleged role in inflicting climate-related damage on the state's infrastructure. "With nearly every record rainfall, heatwave, and coastal storm, New Yorkers are increasingly burdened with billions of dollars in health, safety, and environmental consequences due to polluters who have historically harmed our environment," Hochul said in a statement. "This landmark legislation shifts the cost of climate adaptation from everyday New Yorkers to the fossil-fuel companies most responsible for the pollution," Hochul added. New York's Climate Change Superfund Act is modeled after the "polluter pays" principle contained in the original 1980 Superfund law, which said parties held responsible for contributing to toxic pollution sites would be liable for cleanup. But treating carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from the production and combustion of fossil fuels the same way as contamination from, say, a long-abandoned mine is comparing apples with oranges. CO2 whether manmade or natural is not a pollutant; indeed, today's rising atmospheric levels of CO2 are highly beneficial to life, both fauna and flora. One of the surest ways to lower agricultural productivity is to adopt climate policies that reduce atmospheric CO2. Furthermore, attributing weather events such as heavy rain, droughts, heatwaves, cold snaps, and coastal storms to use of fossil fuels is purely speculative. Nowhere in the New York statute is a cause-and-effect relationship established. Hochul and her fellow Democrats in Albany are not interested in such matters; their agenda is extortion. Instead of paying to upgrade the state's roads and bridges not to mention New York City's crumbling subway system with higher taxes on already overtaxed New Yorkers, shaking down oil and gas companies looks like an easy way out. Under the new law, companies that emitted over 1 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide between 2000 and 2018 will be held to account. How much each company will have to cough up will be determined by state bureaucrats. As many as three dozen or more, led by ExxonMobil and Chevron, will have to pay up. Vermont passed its own version of the climate Superfund law last summer, and similar legislation is under consideration in California, Massachusetts, and Maryland. Using state and local tort laws to replenish depleted government coffers in the name of remediating damage said to result from climate change may be a bridge too far legally. The effort suffered a setback in 2021, when the Second Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed a New York City lawsuit targeting fossil fuel producers. As recently noted by the Wall Street Journal, the court held that state tort law could not be used "to hold multinational oil companies liable for the damages caused by global greenhouse gas emissions." Further clarity on applying state tort law to global greenhouse gas emissions may have to come from the U.S. Supreme Court. The court is considering whether to hear Sunoco LP v. City and County of Honolulu. Sunoco, an oil company, was sued by the City and County of Honolulu for its alleged impact on the climate. In a petition filed in May 2024 with the Supreme Court, attorneys for the company argued that the case against Sunoco was unconstitutional. "The Hawaii Supreme Court held that the state law can impose liability for injuries allegedly caused by the effect of interstate and international greenhouse-gas emissions on the global climate," the brief reads. "The Second Circuit, considering materially identical claims, rejected such a breathtaking, extraterritorial application of state law. Other courts, too, have declined to apply state law extraterritorially to regulate transboundary pollution. The question is whether the unique phenomenon of global climate change licenses states to ignore the structure of our constitutional system and extend state law beyond their borders is at the heart of the climate-change litigation currently ongoing nationwide. The Court's intervention is urgently needed." A decision from the Supreme Court on whether to hear the case is expected in early 2025. In the meantime, blue states anticipating that the incoming Trump administration will roll back a slew of federal green energy policies will attempt to build a firewall to preserve as much of their climate agenda as the courts allow. Bonner Russell Cohen, Ph.D., is a senior fellow at the National Center for Public Policy Research and a senior policy analyst with the Committee for a Constructive Tomorrow (CFACT). This was first published at Human Events. Home Posts on a social media channel were a catalyst for violent disorder which broke out after three girls were stabbed at a dance class, a court has heard. Andrew McIntyre, 39, set up a Telegram channel called Southport Wake Up, in the immediate aftermath of the knife attack in the Merseyside town on July 29 last year, Liverpool Crown Court was told on Monday. Arthur Gibson, prosecuting, said the case involved a sinister aspect of violence which took place in parts of the UK last summer. He said: It is the prosecution case that many of these seats of disorder were not simply spontaneous, or that persons coincidentally simply decided to turn up and take part. It is the Crowns case that others, to a greater or lesser degree, participated in the organisation, encouragement and incitement of such gatherings, which resulted in the disorder. It is the Crowns case that one such person is the defendant. The Southport Wake Up channel was identified by the group Hope Not Hate as a catalyst for and origin of a series of posts concerning incidents of violence, Mr Gibson said. The court heard McIntyre, who has pleaded guilty to encouraging violent disorder and possession of a knife, shared content from a site called Tommy Robinson/ Britain First/ For Britain about a protest in Southport on July 30. He also posted a map after adding: Mosque at the top of Hart St. In a later post he wrote: Rise Up English Lads. 8pm tomorrow St Lukes Rd Southport. Hours before violence broke out in Southport on July 30, he posted a clear threat to police, writing: Message to AllStand in our way, even if youre just doing your job prepare to fall. Another user responded: Well get to the mosque and rip it f****** down. The court was told McIntyres phone was in the area of St Lukes Road in Southport at 7pm on July 30, and the car in which he was later arrested was also in the area when the disorder took place. The day after the disorder, McIntyre posted: Well done last night lads, to all you heavy hitters. Are you ready for Round 2??? Liverpool Mosque, West Derby Road, Friday 8pm. McIntyre was working as a taxi driver when he was intercepted by police in Liverpool on August 8 and arrested, Mr Gibson said. A knife was found hidden in the boot of his car and, when his home was searched, officers found weapons and a copy of Hitlers Mein Kampf, the court heard. The defendant was originally charged with encouraging murder, after posting a link to a YouTube video of the Home Secretary with the caption: Were going to hang this woman and her associates. Mr Gibson said the decision was taken by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) not to pursue the charge to trial because of evidential issues concerning whether the defendant actually believed the act would be carried out. The count was left to lie on the file at an earlier hearing. McIntyre, of Rufford, near Ormskirk, Lancashire, will be sentenced later on Monday. The defendant followed proceedings on a videolink from HMP Liverpool, where he has been remanded in custody, while his parents looked on from the public gallery of the courtroom. Julian Nutter, defending, said: His parents are horrified that he is in this predicament. He is a man of previous good character and has never come to the attention of the police before. Among character references were letters to Judge Neil Flewitt KC from McIntyres parents and a family friend, the court heard. Mr Nutter said: Those who have spoken on his behalf describe somebody who is very different from what we have heard from the prosecution about him. Prison officer jailed for 15 months after sex with inmate in cell A prison officer has been jailed for 15 months after having sex with an inmate in a cell. Linda De Sousa Abreu, 30, of Fulham, south-west London, was charged after a video of the activity was shared on social media. A police investigation was launched after officers were made aware of a video filmed inside HMP Wandsworth in south London. Linda de Sousa Abreu has been jailed for 15 months (Metropolitan Police/PA) De Sousa Abreu, who is a mother-of-one, was arrested and pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office at Isleworth Crown Court in July last year. She appeared at the same court on Monday wearing a grey suit and white shirt, and was sentenced to 15 months in prison. The defendant was told she would serve half her time in custody and the rest on licence. She was also entitled to a reduction of 95 days after it was revealed she had been wearing an electronic tag for 190 days. Sentencing, Judge Martin Edmunds KC told De Sousa Abreu: You engaged in sexual activity with a prisoner. That compromised your role as an officer, and was misconduct which undermines discipline within the prison, and puts fellow officers at increased risk. You knew that conduct was forbidden and forbidden for good reason. The charge says that De Sousa Abreu wilfully and without reasonable excuse or justification misconducted yourself in a way which amounted to an abuse of the publics trust in the office holder by engaging in a sexual act with a prisoner in a prison cell. The court heard that De Sousa Abreu, who had a history of poor mental health and trauma, had consented to sexual activity with Linton Weirich at Wandsworth on June 25 2024. She also agreed to a second prisoner being present and filming the activity while appearing to smoke cannabis. The second prisoner later sent the video to a friend who shared it on X, formerly known as Twitter. De Sousa Abreu also asked Judge Edmunds to consider two further offences, one being sexual activity with the same prisoner earlier that day and the other being a separate sexual encounter with Weirich within at least three to four days of the main offence. After seeing the clip had gone viral, the prison officer attempted to fly to Madrid and later Madeira, where she had family, to wait for things to calm down. She was arrested at Heathrow Airport after notifying the prison of her travel plans. Judge Edmunds said: From what I know about you, you were certainly not naive about the media or social media. Linda De Sousa Abreu was told she would serve half her time in custody and the rest on licence (Yui Mok/PA) It must have been obvious that the recording would be shown around and shared, at least amongst prisoners at Wandsworth where it would do the most harm. Whether you intended it or not, the fact is that the video went viral, and caused great harm. Many offenders do not intend the harm that their offending causes, but they nevertheless bear responsibility for it. Victim impact statements read out on behalf of members of the Prison Service, including the current governor of Wandsworth, heard how the defendants actions had led to female officers at the prison being subject to abuse and harassment from prisoners as well as being subjected to sexual approaches and being seen as fair game. Some female officers have claimed their children have been subjected to teasing at school over what their mothers may do at work, the court heard. Judge Edmunds concluded: The consequence of the recording going viral, a result that you did not intend but which was certainly a consequence of your offence, has been that prison officers have faced heckling and harassment. Linda De Sousa Abreu was sentenced at Isleworth Crown Court (Margaret Davis/PA) They have been confronted with sexualised images falsely suggesting that your conduct is typical. Children of your fellow female prison officers have been teased as to what their mothers may do at work. It is inevitable that the damage for which you were responsible at Wandsworth has spread, to some degree, through the prison estate. A Prison Service spokesperson said: While the overwhelming majority of Prison Service staff are hardworking and honest, were catching more of the small minority who break the rules by bolstering our Counter Corruption Unit and strengthening our vetting processes. As todays sentencing demonstrates, where officers do fall below our high standards we wont hesitate to take robust action. A rapper was shot dead as he sat in a car in a cold-blooded execution as part of a revenge attack three years after he was cleared of murder, a court has heard. Tamba Momodu, 20, known as Teerose, was shot six times at point-blank range with a powerful 9mm handgun on October 13 2020 as he was about to go the gym in Telford, Shropshire, with two friends. Stafford Crown Court heard Mr Momodu had moved from north London to Telford with his family in 2018 to start a new life after he was acquitted at the Old Bailey of murdering 19-year-old Abdullahi Tarabi, a rapper known as Teewiz who died after being stabbed in an alleyway in Northolt in April 2017. Prosecutor allege Mr Momodu was stalked and tracked down by Tarabis older brother and cousin who were intent on revenge. Mahamud Tarabi, 32, and Ahmed Karshe, 30, who are both on trial for Mr Momodus murder, alongside Deria Hassan, 32, and Merje Ngoy, 24, are said to have found the victims new location after he was jailed in October 2019 for possession with intent to supply drugs and his new address was published in the press. Opening the Crowns case, prosecutor James Curtis KC said a number of trips, starting on September 2 2020, were made to the Telford area in different cars, 11 of those being reconnaissance before four unsuccessful attempts to carry out the killing were made. It was on their 16th visit to Telford that they finally ambushed Mr Momodu and singled him out for death as he sat in the passenger seat of a friends Renault Megane in the car park at Bridges Business Park in Horsehay outside the Fitness Factory gym. Mr Momodus friend had unknowingly parked his vehicle next to a Skoda Karoq on false plates that had been stolen from London in July 2020 and had at least two people inside wearing high-visibility tabards, one of whom exited the vehicle and carried out the shooting, with bullets passing through the victims back, neck, his heart and his left lung. Mr Curtis said the fatal attack was choreographed and meticulously planned and carried out with military precision, with Mr Momodu shot through the car window, as he fell out of the door and again as he lay on the ground dying. He said: No-one could ever say it was self-defence it was deliberate and he never stood a chance. It was no accident [the killer] had moved to Tamba Momodus side of the car and no accident the others in the car were untouched. Later that night, the Skoda Karoq was torched in a remote car park close to The Wrekin beauty spot in Telford, where earlier that day an Audi A5 had been parked ready to take the killers away from the area. The court was told efforts to find Mr Momodu started as early as January 2019, when Google Maps screenshots were found on Tarabis phone circling the victims new address. A phone belonging to Tarabi had also made searches for different areas of Telford, including Summercroft, the road where Mr Momodu was living, in July 2020. When Mr Momodu was released from prison for the drugs offences in August 2020, he had become a moving target instead of being behind prison walls, Mr Curtis told the jury. On the first reconnaissance trip to Telford on September 2 2020, visits were made to Mr Momodus gym, his address and the car park where the Skoda was later set alight. Karshe, of no fixed address, Hassan, of Ferrymead Avenue in Greenford, London, Tarabi, of Whiteleys Parade in Hillingdon, London, and Ngoy, of no fixed address, all deny murder. Hussain has pleaded guilty to arson, while the other three deny the same charge. All four defendants sat in the dock at Stafford Crown Court on Monday and listened to proceedings through headphones and flanked by three dock officers. In a tribute released after his death, Mr Momodus family described him as a smiley charismatic young man who would light up any room he entered. The trial, expected to last at least eight weeks, continues. Mexican actress Salma Hayek telling fellow Hollywood star Selena Gomez to have her moment at the Golden Globes is among the stand-out moments on the red carpet this year. Gomez, whose family are from Mexico, is up for best supporting actress in a motion picture against her Emilia Perez co-star Zoe Saldana at the event, which is being held at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles on Sunday. Hayek was about to join Variety magazine for an interview on the red carpet, but saw Gomez and said: I want Selena to have her moment. Mexican actress Salma Hayek (Doug Peters/PA) Gomez than broke down in tears, and said: I havent taken any pictures yet, so its actually the sweetest thing ever, I love her. I look up to her, my dads crush is her. She is also up against British star Felicity Jones for her role in The Brutalist, Isabella Rossellini for Conclave, Margaret Qualley for The Substance and pop heavyweight Ariana Grande whose nomination for Wicked marked her first in the film actress category. The US actress was then interrupted by her Only Murders In The Building co-stars Martin Short and Steve Martin, who play a trio who solve murders after becoming obsessed with true crime podcasts. For the series, Gomez is also up for a best performance Golden Globe by an actress in a TV musical or comedy, against Kristen Bell for Netflix romantic comedy hit Nobody Wants This, about a rabbi and a podcast host who fall in love, and British actress Ayo Edebiri for kitchen-set high tension drama The Bear. Martin told Variety: How about this gal (Selena)? I dont know. Is that OK to say? Youre nominated for this outstanding movie that you went to Paris to shoot and learn Spanish lines, and its just amazing. Gomez was also seen holding hands with music producer Benny Blanco on the red carpet, who she got engaged to last year. Also reuniting on the red carpet at the Golden Globes were musical Moulin Rouge! stars Nicole Kidman and Scottish actor Ewan McGregor, and Ask The Dust co-stars Hayek and Irish actor Colin Farrell. Kidman praised Esther McGregor, McGregors daughter who stars in thriller Babygirl with her. Babygirl sees Kidman nominated for best actress in a drama film. Nicole Kidman at the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) McGregor said: Shes really wonderful in it she has a couple of moments in it that really just my eyes opened wide and I was like, Oh my gosh, shes really got it. So Im really proud. They both starred as love interests in the musical directed by Baz Luhrmann, and which received eight Academy Award nominations, winning two gongs in 2002 and later being adapted for the stage. Farrell, who transformed into a Batman villain for the HBO series Penguin, was giving Hayek advice on wearing prosthetics as he was interviewed by Variety. He said: The thing is be cautious about taking it off at the end of the day, because you want to be in a rush and you want to get out of there. Take your time, tell them to slow down. I would be ripping pieces off and tell them to hurry along and stuff, but just get them to take their time when theyre taking the prosthetics off, that will save your skin. Farrell is up against Richard Gadd for dark comedy Baby Reindeer, McGregor for Russian-set historical comedy A Gentleman In Moscow, and Irish actor Andrew Scott for a remake of Ripley on Netflix for best performance by a male actor in a limited or anthology series or TV film. American actress Emma Stone also surprised the red carpet with a pixie cut, a departure from her usual longer hairstyle, which she sported alongside a sparkly upper ear and a red dress. The 82nd Golden Globes is presented by American comedian and actress Nikki Glaser the first woman to solo host the ceremony. The internet is in tears over the way one community rallied behind a senior pup on her very last day on earth. Community members from a neighborhood in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania came out after the dog's owner posted on Facebook asking people to celebrate her beloved pup. And it's beyond sweet. Every dog deserves the day that senior pup Lou had. She received the most incredible goodbye and enjoyed every moment of it. The group met up in Passyunk Square in Philadelphia to give Lou her sendoff. The senior dog looked like the belle of the ball at her goodbye party. It's amazing that so many strangers came to celebrate the dog. They'd never met Lou before, but knew that she deserved a proper bash. Related: Dog Groomer Saying Goodbye to Beloved Sheltie Is Beyond Heartbreaking The party had everything treats, pets, bubbles and of course Lou was the star of the show. Could you imagine anything better for a pet owner? It's one thing for you to give your dog a great last day, but it's totally another to see strangers rally around your loss. People online were so touched by the gesture. "And on this day she spent eternity smiling with all her new friends," chimed in one commenter. "Literally the most beautiful human moment I've seen all week," added someone else. "Really beautiful! Unfortunately, the cost of a good dog is a broken heart," a third commenter wrote. While another person shared their own story of giving their pet a fitting farewell. "I dressed my old gal as a pumpkin and the dive bar down the road gave her a going away party," they wrote. "It was so kind of them. She loved Halloween and people. We handed out candy, said hellos and goodbyes." Saying Goodbye to Your Dog Your dog's last days are so difficult for both of you. But there are ways to make it easier. Give your dog a good goodbye by surrounding them with their favorite toys, stuffies, and toys. If they're still physically active, play their favorite games with them. If your dog is not active, cuddling on the couch can be so nice. You are your dog's favorite person, so some quality one-on-one time could be the perfect thing. Or take them out to their favorite dog park or hiking trail for one last day in the sun. If moving isn't an option, even a drive to the beach or busy city center can be fun. It'll give them a chance to people watch. You know your dog's personality best and how they'll truly want to spend their last day. As long as you're spending time with them, there's no way to get it wrong. 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. Further snow showers, ice and rain will hit commuters across the UK on Monday with amber and yellow weather warnings all still in place. More travel disruption is likely due to the adverse conditions, including flooding from heavy rain and thawing snow, the Met Office said, with 40 flood warnings and more than 250 flood alerts issued. It comes after most of the UK saw heavy snow or icy rain fall over a wintry weekend that had two larger amber weather warnings. Major airports closed their runways for several hours due to heavy snow, while there were stranded vehicles and collisions which blocked key roads across northern England. The remaining yellow weather warnings will all end by midday on Monday (PA Graphics) An amber weather warning for snow which covers parts of Lancashire, Cumbria and the Lake District is in place until 6am on Monday. Travel delays, stranded vehicles and power cuts are all likely while rural communities in the warning area could be cut off with up to an additional 15cm of snow falling during the period, the Met Office said. A yellow rain warning for southern England from Cornwall across to Kent will last until 9am on Monday, while a separate rain warning covering much of Wales, the West Midlands and parts of Greater Manchester and Yorkshire is in force until 6am. A yellow warning for snow and ice covering most of northern England and Wales is in place until midday on Monday, while a yellow ice warning covering large parts of Northern Ireland expires at 11am. More snow is forecast to fall over large parts of the UK on Monday (Dave Higgens/PA) The north and west of Scotland are covered by a yellow warning for snow and ice until 11am on Monday, with another for snow and ice in central and eastern parts of the country in place until midday. A further yellow snow warning covering part of the Scottish Lowlands including Edinburgh is in place until midday. The Environment Agency had issued 29 flood warnings, meaning flooding is expected, across southern England and more than 250 flood alerts across the country on Sunday evening. Heavy rain will fall on already saturated ground across southern England (Jonathan Brady/PA) It said a combination of melting snow and rain could lead to significant river flooding in areas of Lancashire and Warwickshire on Monday, and it advised people to stay away from swollen rivers and to not drive through flood water. Cold air will return and remain across the whole country from Monday onwards after a brief spell of milder conditions in southern areas, the Met Office said. Deputy chief forecaster Mike Silverstone said: The low pressure that brought the snow and heavy rain in the south will move out to the east by Monday. This will allow a cold northerly flow to become established again for much of next week. An icy start across much of the north and west of the UK Monday morning, with further rain, sleet and snow in places Cloudy elsewhere, with outbreaks of rain. Surface water flooding may lead to difficult travelling conditions pic.twitter.com/FJo6AeUU5h Met Office (@metoffice) January 5, 2025 This will bring further sleet, snow and hail showers to northern Scotland in particular, but possibly to some other areas, especially near western coasts, with a fair amount of dry and bright weather elsewhere. Temperatures will remain below average, with widespread frost and the threat of ice at times. Some areas, especially in the north, may struggle to get above freezing for several days. Further weather warnings could be issued with the potential for some snow to fall in southern and central England and Wales around the middle of the week, Mr Silverstone said. The Prime Minister is expected to face questions on Monday about Elon Musks attacks on his Government over past grooming gang cases as campaigners call for Labour to set up a child protection authority. Sir Keir Starmer has so far not spoken to defend his record since the slew of online posts from the tech billionaire, who is a key member of US President-elect Donald Trumps inner circle. As he returns from Parliaments Christmas recess, the Prime Minister is likely to face questions over Mr Musks tweets and calls from other parties to launch a new inquiry into child sexual exploitation. The chairwoman of a previous inquiry that uncovered wide-ranging failings in how institutions protected children said she was not seeking a new probe, but for the Government to take the steps recommended in her final report more than two years ago. Our mission is not to call for new inquiries but to advocate for the full implementation of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuses recommendations. A Child Protection Authority is critical to this process, said Professor Alexis Jay. Mr Musks criticism of Sir Keir included saying he had failed to bring rape gangs to justice as director of public prosecutions (DPP) from 2008 to 2013 and calling him complicit in the rape of Britain. As DPP, Sir Keir brought in a national network of specialist prosecutors for child abuse and sexual exploitation to oversee convictions against grooming gangs and changed Crown Prosecution Service guidance to focus on the credibility of allegations rather than whether victims would make good witnesses. Mr Musk also posted on X, which he owns, suggesting that safeguarding minister Jess Phillips deserves to be in prison for denying requests for the Home Office to lead a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham and called her a rape genocide apologist. Members of Sir Keirs Cabinet defended him and Ms Phillips over the weekend. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper called the Birmingham Yardley MP a fearless and formidable advocate for sexual abuse victims and praised her work as a Home Office minister. Health Secretary Wes Streeting called Elon Musks attacks on Jess Phillips a disgraceful smear (Jordan Pettitt/PA) Health Secretary Wes Streeting called Mr Musks attacks on Ms Phillips a disgraceful smear on the Sunday media round. She and the Prime Minister have an actual record of banging up rapists, paedophiles and sex offenders, so they dont need lectures from anyone else, he said. Social media platforms can help to clamp down on those grooming children online if Mr Musk wants to roll his sleeves up and actually do something about tackling violence against women and girls, he said. The Tesla and Space X boss took aim at Ms Phillips after she wrote to Oldham council saying it must follow other towns such as Rotherham and Telford and commission its own inquiry into historical abuse of children. Labour is now facing calls for a new national inquiry from Reform UK and the Conservatives, the latter of which had refused a request for a public inquiry into events in Oldham while in government. Professor Alexis Jay, chairwoman of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, giving evidence to the Commons Home Affairs Committee (PA) Sir Keirs Government is against launching another nationwide probe and has said it is working to implement recommendations from Professor Jays inquiry, which concluded in 2022. That inquiry looked into abuse by organised groups following multiple convictions of sexual offences against children across the UK between 2010-2014, including in Rotherham, Cornwall, Derbyshire, Rochdale and Bristol. Campaign group Act on IICSA, chaired by Professor Jay, has called on the Government to set out a timeline for putting in place its recommendations. It has also urged it to set up a child protection authority to cover the key recommendations of standardising data collecting and sharing, enhancing analysis and identification of organised networks and abuse patterns and proactively funding measures to prevent abuse and support victims and survivors. Rebuilding the NHS is the cornerstone of rebuilding Britain, the Prime Minister said, as he pledged to fight for it day and night. Sir Keir Starmer unveiled more detail about his plans for tackling NHS waiting lists, with the aim of slashing the number of people waiting longer than 18 weeks for NHS treatment in England by nearly half a million over the next year. He said he will also expand the use of the private sector, acknowledging that some will not like this but saying he is not interested in putting ideology before patients. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer delivers a speech on his plans for the NHS during a visit to the Elective Orthopaedic Centre in Epsom, Surrey (Leon Neal/PA) During a speech in Surrey, the Prime Minister said 2025 is about rebuilding Britain and rebuilding our NHS is the cornerstone of that. He added: We will, of course, protect the principles we all cherish that you will work to every day care free at the point of use, treatment according to need, key principles. But to catapult the service into the future, we need an NHS that is reformed from top to bottom, millions of extra appointments signed, sealed and delivered with the plan that we are launching here today. National renewal in action. Sir Keir said the NHS must be hungry for innovation but reiterated his belief that the health service cannot become a national money pit. He said: Productivity cant (be) 11% lower than it was before the pandemic. Working people cant be expected to subsidise the current levels of care with ever-rising taxes. That is the price of ducking reform, and I wont stand for it. I believe in public service. I believe in the NHS. Ill fight for it day and night. Ill never stand for that. Under his plans, Sir Keir said the NHS must deliver convenience for patients, just as people can book holidays and find love online. This plan that were launching today is a comprehensive level of that mindset, an NHS that treats patients more quickly, that is closer to their lives, gives them the level of convenience that they take for granted in nearly every other service they use every day, he said. Just think about it every day, just a few swipes of their phone, millions of people buy food or clothes for themselves and their family, they book holidays, they even find love. There is no reason, no good reason, why a public, free-at-the-point-of-use NHS cant deliver that kind of convenience. In fact, it must. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Health Secretary Wes Streeting meet members of staff during a visit to the Elective Orthopaedic Centre in Epsom, Surrey (Leon Neal/PA) The Prime Minister also pledged better use of capacity in the private sector to help cut NHS waiting lists, all free at the point of use to patients. Under a new deal outlined by the Department of Health, women on gynaecological waiting lists and orthopaedics patients are among those who will be offered quicker treatment via private hospitals. In gynaecology, there is currently a backlog of 260,000 women waiting more than 18 weeks for treatments, while in orthopaedics more than 40% of patients are waiting longer than the 18-week target. The Government said the new deal will mean the NHS makes better use of the independent sector to tackle waiting lists as well as providing millions more appointments. In his speech, the Prime Minister pledged to put patients at the centre of their treatment and shift more care closer to the towns and cities where they live, which he said will make a massive difference to waiting times. Meanwhile, allowing GPs to communicate directly with specialists to seek advice and diagnose people more quickly will save more than 800,000 unnecessary appointments and referrals every year. Sir Keir told the medics who gathered to hear him speak that no institution is more important to the security of the country than the NHS. He said: Theres no institution more important for the security of our country than the National Health Service. Built by that generation eight decades ago now, its the embodiment of British values and humanities fairness, equal respect. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer told the medics who gathered to hear him speak that no institution is more important to the security of the country than the NHS (Leon Neal/PA) The Government has said it will slash waiting times by: Creating a bigger network of community diagnostic centres, which provide appointments such as scans, colonoscopies and endoscopies. They will run 12 hours a day, seven days a week. The hope is to deliver up to half a million extra appointments a year. GPs will be able to refer patients directly to these centres without requiring a prior consultation with a hospital consultant. Creating more surgical hubs, as championed by the Royal College of Surgeons. These deliver surgery more quickly in areas such as cataract surgery and orthopaedic operations. These hubs are often separated from other hospital theatres, which means operations in the hubs are not cancelled to make way for emergency surgery. Enabling patients to book more tests and scans after work and at weekends, including through the NHS app. John Swinney has insisted there will be real damage done to the NHS if opposition MSPs block his budget claiming this could see operations cancelled and medicines rationed. The Scottish First Minister warned of a catastrophic reduction in service delivery if Holyrood fails to pass the Governments budget for the coming year. A loss of 2 billion additional fudning planned for health care could also put planned pay rises for doctors and nurses under threat Mr Swinney said, adding that strict emergency spending limits that would have to be introduced if the budget is not approved could potentially even threaten the Governments ability to keep the lights on. Making his first speech of 2025, the SNP leader warned of the consequences to the NHS and beyond if opposition parties were to block the Budget Bill. With the First Minister leading a minority administration in the Scottish Parliament, the SNP needs the support of at least one other party for the legislation to go through. And while the SNP leader said he was confident the budget would pass, he added that voters would be unforgiving of any politicians who would rather play political games. HIs comments came in a speech in Edinburgh where Mr Swinney made clear that the impact of a budget failing to pass is severe. He added that he warned everyone to be aware of the damage that will be done if that were to happen. And, while he stressed that ministers would always seek to avoid the worst impact, he said not passing the budget would put at risk 2 billion of additional investment in the NHS causing a catastrophic reduction in service delivery. Were working hard to avoid it, but if opposition parties block the Budget, the consequences are devastating: NHS funding slashed Cancelled operations, pay rises at risk No winter heating payments for pensioners Halted progress on teachers, housing & the A9 pic.twitter.com/xV1JtrxZvc The SNP (@theSNP) January 6, 2025 The First Minister said: Operations would likely have to be cancelled, nurses and doctors pay rises would be under threat, medicines might have to be rationed. Describing the NHS as bruised, he said action was needed now to tackle problems such as waiting times. The First Minister accepted that too many people wait too long for that first diagnosis and waiting times for treatment for some remain unacceptably long. But he said passing the budget would deliver more funding for health care with a solution to NHS problems including more operations, new hospitals and easier access to GPs. But Mr Swinney added: For all of this, the NHS needs this budget to pass. He insisted that passing the budget is the first major step to ensuring 2025 is a year of improvement and progress for Scotland. In contrast, the First Minister claimed any failure to pass the budget would see strict emergency arrangements come into effect, which would mean Scottish Government departments could not increase spending from this years levels, with money only to be spent on measures outlined in the 2024-25 budget. Spending would also be limited to month by month, Mr Swinney added, saying: As an example it might mean we cannot spend any more money on health and social care in April 2025 than we did in April 2024. He questioned how pay rises and rising energy bills could be met in such a scenario, with the First Minister stating: If the electricity or gas bill in a public building rises next year and we know it is going to how can the lights be kept on when the budget is frozen every month. On the impact elsewhere, he said: It would mean: no universal heating payments for pensioners; the record increase in arts and culture funding halted; fewer teachers and no new money for additional support needs; increased funding for affordable housing lost. This, he said, would result in real damage to the very fabric of our public services with real damage inflicted on some of the most vulnerable in our land. In a stark message to opposition leaders at Holyrood, the First Minister said: If party politicking results in the budget failing to pass, there will be real damage done. However Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar insisted the First Minister already has the votes necessary for the Budget Bill to pass, as he urged the SNP leader to end the shadow-boxing on the budget. Speaking to the PA news agency Mr Sarwar said: John Swinney knows he has the vote to pass his budget. Well, of course, continue to engage with them in good faith, but I think he clearly has support from other parties already to pass his budget. What we want to see from that budget, though, is not just where the money is spent, but how the money is spent. The reality is that John Swinney and the SNP have been passing budgets in Scotland for 17 years and things continue to get worse. Meanwhile, Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay accused the First Minister of getting desperate in his bid to pass another SNP budget that raises taxes on working people without improving public services one bit. The Tory added: If he wants a budget to pass, theres a simple common sense solution bring forward a better one that reduces tax on workers and businesses, changes public services for the better, reduces bureaucracy, and gives people more power over their own lives and what happens in their own communities. And the Scottish Greens hit out at hugely overblown comments from the First Minister that blocking the budget would risk feeding the forces of anti-politics and populism. Green finance spokesperson Ross Greer said: It is frankly daft and divisive for the Scottish Government to claim that such an important feature of our democracy is somehow fuelling dangerous political forces. He added: To defeat the dangerous, billionaire-led forces of the radical right, we need to build a fairer, greener Scotland for everyone and tackle the very real public frustrations which the far right feed on, not fall in line behind a tepid SNP status quo. If the First Minister is prepared to be bolder, then he will have the Scottish Greens support. A taxi-driver whose posts on social media were a catalyst for violent disorder has been jailed for seven and a half years. Andrew McIntyre, 39, set up a Telegram channel called Southport Wake Up, in the immediate aftermath of the knife attack at a childrens dance class in the Merseyside town on July 29 last year, Liverpool Crown Court was told on Monday. Sentencing him, Judge Neil Flewitt KC said the defendant was prominent among people responsible for spreading misinformation following the Southport attack. He said: You were motivated by racial hatred. A court artists sketch of Andrew McIntyre at Liverpool Crown Court (Elizabeth Cook/PA) I have no doubt your actions encouraged many people to plan and then to commit offences of both violent disorder and criminal damage. He said the offence was aggravated because it was motivated by racial hostility and involved attacks on police officers. Arthur Gibson, prosecuting, said the case involved a sinister aspect of violence which took place in parts of the UK last summer. He said: It is the prosecution case that many of these seats of disorder were not simply spontaneous, or that persons coincidentally simply decided to turn up and take part. It is the Crowns case that others, to a greater or lesser degree, participated in the organisation, encouragement and incitement of such gatherings, which resulted in the disorder. It is the Crowns case that one such person is the defendant. The Southport Wake Up channel was identified by the group Hope Not Hate as a catalyst for and origin of a series of posts concerning incidents of violence, Mr Gibson said. The court heard McIntyre, who pleaded guilty to encouraging violent disorder and criminal damage and possession of a knife, shared content from a site called Tommy Robinson / Britain First / For Britain about a protest in Southport on July 30. McIntyre shared content from a site named after far-right activist Tommy Robinson (Jordan Pettitt/PA) He also posted a map after adding: Mosque at the top of Hart St. In a later post he wrote: Rise Up English Lads. 8pm tomorrow St Lukes Rd Southport. Hours before violence broke out in Southport on July 30, he posted a clear threat to police, writing: Message to All Stand in our way, even if youre just doing your job prepare to fall. Another user responded: Well get to the mosque and rip it f****** down. The court was told McIntyres phone was in the area of St Lukes Road in Southport at 7pm on July 30 and the car he was later arrested in was also in the area when the disorder took place. The day after disorder, McIntyre posted: Well done last night lads, to all you heavy hitters. Are you ready for Round 2??? Liverpool Mosque, West Derby Road, Friday 8pm. On August 5, the defendant shared a post from his channel with another site which listed immigration advisers and said: Wednesday Night Lads. They wont stop coming until you tell them no more immigration 8pm mask up spread this as far and wide as you can. McIntyre was working as a taxi driver when he was intercepted by police in Liverpool on August 8 and arrested, Mr Gibson said. A knife was found hidden in the boot of his car and, when his home was searched, officers found weapons and a copy of Hitlers Mein Kampf, the court heard. The trial was held at Liverpool Crown Court (Dave Thompson/PA) Mr Gibson said McIntyre refused to provide police with the PIN for his mobile telephone. Judge Flewitt said: The only reasonable inference is you knew if interrogated your mobile phone would reveal further evidence of your involvement in encouraging violent protests. The defendant followed proceedings on a videolink from HMP Liverpool, where he has been remanded in custody, while his parents looked on from the public gallery of the courtroom. Julian Nutter, defending, said: His parents are horrified that he is in this predicament. He is a man of previous good character and has never come to the attention of the police before. Among character references were letters from McIntyres parents and a family friend, the court heard. Mr Nutter said: Those who have spoken on his behalf describe somebody who is very different from what we have heard from the prosecution about him. McIntyre, of Rufford, near Ormskirk, Lancashire, was originally charged with encouraging murder after posting a link to a YouTube video of the Home Secretary with the caption: Were going to hang this woman and her associates. Mr Gibson said the decision was taken by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) not to pursue the charge to trial because of evidential issues concerning whether the defendant actually believed the act would be carried out. The count was left to lie on the file.